South Africa: Hawks, SARS pounce on R30 million worth of illicit cigarettes

National Hawks Head, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, has commended the Directorates Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team for seizing R30 million worth of suspected illicit cigarettes in Limpopo.

In a multi-disciplinary sting operation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, the Hawks, the South African National Defence Force and South African Revenue Services pounced on the contraband after receiving a tip-off.

Hawks spokesperson Captain Matimba Maluleke said after the team received a tip off about illicit cigarettes that were kept at a farm waiting to be transported to different destinations in the country.

The Directorate in Limpopo is extremely determined to fight the smuggling of illicit cigarettes in the country by dismantling and paralysing the syndicate operations. This follows a successful discovery of suspected illicit cigarettes at a farm between Musina and Beitbridge port of entry on 25 February 2023, said Maluleke in a statement on Saturday.

He said when the team arrived at the identified farm, they found a truck and a tractor with trailer loaded with suspected illicit cigarettes that were covered with brick pallets.

A preliminary investigation led to the discovery of a bakkie and another truck in the vicinity that were also fully loaded with suspected illicit cigarettes. The value of the seized suspected illicit cigarettes is over R30 million. The team worked throughout the night trying to safeguard the exhibit and locate the suspects, he said.

Five suspects, aged between 26 and 44, were arrested for contravening the Customs and Excise Act and are expected to appear in the Musina Magistrate's court on Monday, 27 February.

Lebeya has commended the team for a good work.

"The work of the team is commendable. The DPCI [Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations] shall continue to dismantle organised criminal groups that decide to operate anywhere in our jurisdiction," the Lieutenant General said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-02-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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President Biden on Monday welcomed an agreement between the United Kingdom and European Union to resolve the post-Brexit trade status of Northern Ireland.

Biden, in a statement, called the Windsor Framework an essential step to ensuring that the hard-earned peace and progress of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement is preserved and strengthened.

I appreciate the efforts of the leaders and officials on all sides who worked tirelessly to find a way forward that protects Northern Irelands place within the UKs internal market as well as the EUs single market, to the benefit of all communities in Northern Ireland, Biden said in a statement.

I am confident the people and businesses of Northern Ireland will be able to take full advantage of the economic opportunities created by this stability and certainty, and the United States stands ready to support the regions vast economic potential, he added.

Former Rep. Joe Kennedy III (D-Mass.), who is the Biden administrations special envoy to Northern Ireland for economic affairs, will help coordinate implementation of the new framework along with Bidens ambassador to the United Kingdom, Jane Hartley, and the ambassador to Ireland, Claire Cronin.

The framework agreed to Monday between British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will allow goods to flow freely to Northern Ireland from the rest of the United Kingdom. The agreement, named the Windsor Framework because it was finalized in Windsor near London, ends a dispute that has loomed since the United Kingdom voted in 2016 to leave the European Union.

Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, shares a border with Ireland, which is part of the European Union. The U.K.s exit from the EU sparked renewed concerns about the possibility of a hard border between Northern Ireland and Ireland, upsetting the Good Friday Agreement, which has maintained peace for more than two decades. April will mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Washington  The Biden administration's plan to cancel up to $20,000 in federal student loan debt for millions of Americans will come under scrutiny by the Supreme Court on Tuesday, facing a crucial test from a conservative court that has been wary of broad claims of executive power.

The program, unveiled in August, satisfies a campaign promise from President Biden and would provide relief to more than 40 million borrowers, 20 million of whom would have their loan balances wiped out altogether, the White House estimates.

But with a cost of roughly $400 billion, a group of six states and two borrowers from Texas are pushing the Supreme Court to invalidate the program and argue the Biden administration unlawfully invoked the COVID-19 pandemic to claim "breathtaking and transformative power," according to a court filing from the states.

Arguments in the pair of cases to be heard by the justices Tuesday are the culmination of a political and constitutional clash that has left millions of borrowers in limbo. The Department of Education in November stopped accepting applications for the program and loan service providers are prevented from discharging any debt as a result of the legal challenges.

The court is set to consider two questions when it convenes for arguments: first, whether the states and borrowers have the legal right to challenge the program, a concept known as standing, and then whether the Biden administration exceeded its authority with its plan to eliminate $430 billion of federal student loan debt.

Key to whether the justices even weigh the lawfulness of the program is whether the Biden administration can persuade a majority of the court that neither the GOP-led states nor the two borrowers, Myra Brown and Alexander Taylor, have the legal standing to sue.

"Going back decades, the Supreme Court has been pretty clear on its rules for what a plaintiff needs to be able to bring a case in court," David Nahmias, a staff attorney with the Berkeley Center for Consumer Law and Economic Justice, told CBS News. The center filed a brief on behalf of Missouri consumer advocates in support of the Biden administration, arguing the states' threatened harms are "speculative."

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"The court has made it very clear that you need a concrete harm, a concrete injury that is not abstract or hypothetical. It's an actual harm or imminent harm, and they've made that very clear, time and again, in their decisions," he said.

Student loan borrowers gather at the Supreme Court on Jan. 2, 2023, in Washington, D.C. / Credit: Photo by Larry French/Getty Images for We, The 45 Million

In the case brought by the six states  Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina  a federal district court in St. Louis dismissed the case for lack of standing. But a federal appeals court blocked the debt relief program, finding that "Missouri is harmed from the financial losses that the cancellation inflicts."

The appeals court focused its decision on the Higher Education Loan Authority of the State of Missouri, or MOHELA, a state-created entity that services federal student loans, finding that the financial impact on the loan servicer due to the debt discharge threatened financial harm to Missouri.

In papers filed with the Supreme Court, Missouri argues the student debt relief program will inflict "substantial financial losses" on MOHELA and therefore injure the state, while the other states claim they will lose tax revenues as a result of the program.

For the second case from Texas brought by Brown and Taylor, a federal district court found the borrowers satisfied the requirements for standing and ruled the plan is an unconstitutional exercise of Congress's legislative power. A federal appeals court declined to reinstate the program.

Brown does not qualify for debt relief, as her loans are held by commercial entities, and Taylor is eligible for $10,000 in loan forgiveness. The borrowers claim the education secretary improperly promulgated the plan without the notice-and-comment process, depriving them of the opportunity to comment on the program.

Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, who will argue on behalf of the Department of Education, told the Supreme Court that any harm to the states' treasuries is "self-inflicted" and their theory of decreased tax revenues "unduly speculative." With regards to Missouri and MOHELA, the two are "legally separate entities," Prelogar said.

"The states assert standing based on injuries that are highly speculative, that they have inflicted upon themselves, or that fall upon a third party that is a stranger to this litigation," she said. "And private respondents purport to assert that the plan injures them because it provides too little debt relief, but seek a remedy that would result in no debt relief at all. This Court should reject those convoluted theories."

Nahmias noted that the Supreme Court only needs to find that one of the plan's challengers has legal standing in order to reach the larger question of whether the Biden administration had the authority to cancel student loan debt.

But "states just don't have a right to bring this case," he said. "Specifically in the case of Missouri, their case is far too speculative to reach the requirement for Article III standing that the Supreme Court has set out. It relies on a very weak chain of events, and that's just not enough, it's too attenuated to establish standing."

In a friend-of-the-court brief filed with the court, law professors Samuel Bray of Notre Dame Law School and William Baude of the University of Chicago Law School argue that while they believe the student loan forgiveness program is unlawful, the standing theories put forth in the two cases "are wrong."

"Even if the executive branch has exceeded its authority under Article II, that does not permit the judicial branch to exceed its authority under Article III," they wrote, later warning that accepting the theories of standing from the states would invite it to weigh in on future partisan disputes over actions by federal agencies. "Unless this court wishes to sit in constant judgment of every major executive action  which is not its constitutional role  it is time to say 'stop.'"

Mr. Biden's program would cancel up to $10,000 in federal student debt for Americans earning less than $125,000 annually, and an additional $10,000 for recipients of Pell Grants, which are awarded to students with the greatest financial need.

In the less than four weeks that the application was available, more than 26.2 million people applied, and over 16 million of those applications were approved by the Department of Education, according to the White House. The Trump administration, followed by the Biden administration, paused federal student-loan payments during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the most recent extension running through June.

The Department of Education said its legal authority for the student debt cancellation rests on a 2003 law that authorizes the education secretary to "waive or modify" student financial assistance programs for borrowers "in connection" with a war, military operation or national emergency, such as the pandemic.

But the states and borrowers told the court that the law, the HEROES Act, doesn't authorize the program.

"It is implausible that Congress authorized the secretary to engage in one of the department's most costly actions ever  a half-a-trillion-dollar loan-cancellation program  without any rulemaking procedures," the states said.

Before announcing his student loan initiative, Mr. Biden faced pressure from some Democrats in Congress and activists to take action to help the more than 43 million borrowers with outstanding federal student loan debt totaling $1.6 trillion.

For Dan Stokes, 32, the debt relief available through the program  if it stands  would give him the freedom to change careers and save up enough money to buy a house.

Stokes, who will join a rally outside the Supreme Court hosted by advocacy organizations on Tuesday, has $42,000 in student loan debt after attending a liberal arts college near Roanoke, Virginia, and transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University, from which he graduated with a bachelor of art's degree in international studies and African American studies in 2013.

A special education teacher, Stokes is eligible for $20,000 in debt relief under the Biden administration's plan, and is also working to have the rest of his debt erased under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives the remaining balance on loans after a borrower makes 120 qualifying payments.

"I worked in this industry on good-faith that providing quality instruction, I would be recognized," Stokes, whose loans are serviced by MOHELA, told CBS News. "It's going to set me back from home ownership, and it's a situation where I feel I will have to put that on pause."

Stokes said while he enjoys working with his students, he feels underpaid and burnt out, and his monthly loan payment, though currently on hold, leaves him with little money to put away to move closer toward his goal of homeownership.

"It's setting me back from building wealth for myself and purchasing a home," he said, adding that the program "really helps people to have some type of peace of mind."

A decision from the Supreme Court is expected this summer.
Millions of dollars are flowing into the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, as the state rockets toward an election that could decide the future of abortion rights, redistricting and more in the key battleground state.

The court has a 4-3 conservative majority, with one swing conservative justice who has broken with the rest of the ideological bloc on some major cases. The April 4 election could flip that dynamic to a liberal-leaning majority.

The contest is poised to be the most expensive state Supreme Court race ever, with major outside groups  particularly those focused on abortion  rushing in funds. The previous record was over $15 million for a 2004 Illinois contest, according to the Brennan Center for Justice. In Wisconsin, $10.4 million was spent on advertising alone in the runup to the primary, according to data from the ad tracking firm AdImpact.

This election is off the charts, said Ben Wikler, chair of the state Democratic Party. It's off the charts in terms of the stakes, it's off the charts in terms of how much money is likely to be invested on both sides, its off the charts in terms of the number of people who are voting.

The election, he added, is the hinge on which Wisconsins political future will swing. And Wisconsin is the hinge on which national politics swings.

The race is a full-on sprint between Janet Protasiewicz, a liberal judge from Milwaukee County, and conservative former state Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly. The two were, respectively, the first- and second-place finishers in a four-way primary on Tuesday. Protasiewicz and another liberal-leaning judge in the race combined for nearly 54 percent of the vote, while Kelly and another conservative-leaning judge were at 46 percent.



The contest has significant implications for the future of abortion access in Wisconsin. State Attorney General Josh Kaul, a Democrat, has sued to overturn the states 1849 abortion law, which prohibits the procedure in almost all circumstances. Providers have stopped performing abortions as the legal challenge winds its way through the court system, where it is expected to eventually come before the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

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And the state Supreme Court could also wade into the battle over political boundaries  and ultimately political control  in the state. Republicans have a basically unbreakable control over the Statehouse despite statewide races being close to 50-50.

Turnout was also high for this years primary  960,000, crushing the previous record from the 2020 February primary  and those in the state expect Aprils election to follow suit, despite it being an off year.

I think we are going to see high turnout from both sides, and why wouldnt we? said Mark Jefferson, executive director of the state Republican Party. Everything is on the line.



Jefferson dismissed reading too much into the numbers from Tuesday, arguing that Republican strongholds that didnt turn out as much as the rest of the state in the primary will do so in the general. Wikler, for his part, said he didnt think the vote share total was particularly predictive, but was encouraged by the high turnout in Democratic-leaning areas in an off-year primary.

Protasiewicz and her supporters have signaled they would target Kelly on the issue of abortion and his past as a defense attorney. Her first two general election TV ads, which were released on Wednesday, call him an extremist on abortion and say he wont keep our communities safe for defending child sex predators who posed as ministers. And a Better Wisconsin Together, a liberal group that spent millions in the primary attacking Jennifer Dorow  the conservative judge eliminated in the primary who some Democrats saw as a tougher opponent over Kelly  has already booked TV time for the general election.

And in an interview, Protasiewicz raised Kelly advising the state Republican Party on a fake electors scheme in 2020. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported earlier this month that the former state GOP chair told the Jan. 6 U.S. House select committee that he and Kelly had pretty extensive conversations about the fake electors. Kelly has also served as a paid consultant to both the Republican National Committee and the state party.

Look at what happened in the 2020 presidential election, and how the results of the Wisconsin election landed in the Supreme Court chamber, she said. I think it's more likely than not that the results of the 2024 presidential election could also end up in the Supreme Court chamber.

Kellys campaign did not make him available for an interview. But in a recent, pre-primary interview with The New York Times , Kelly declined to say how he would have ruled on a Dec. 2020 state court case in which Donald Trump tried to overturn the states election results.

He did, however, tell the Times he had no reason to believe the states 2020 election wasnt decided properly, and a spokesperson previously told the Journal Sentinel that Kelly believed Joe Biden is the duly elected president of the United States.

Ben Voelkel, a senior adviser to Kellys campaign, said he thought it was incredibly shortsighted that Democrats were trying to turn the race into a single-issue contest on abortion. He said conservatives would rally against Protasiewicz because of the threat she posed on issues like charter schools and gun rights, and signaled they would lean into hitting her judicial record. Conservative-leaning groups had attacked her during the primary as soft on crime, highlighting a case in which she gave probation for a child rapist.

She had very, very lenient sentences for some people who committed very heinous crimes, he said. Theres going to be more that comes out about what exactly her judicial track record is.

Kellys campaign has yet to unveil any general election TV ads. But Fair Courts America, a conservative group backed by GOP megadonor Richard Uihlein, spent millions on TV boosting Kelly in the primary, and those in the state are anticipating it will continue its spending barrage.

And those on both sides of the abortion rights debate are already gearing up for an intense general election fight. On the pro-abortion rights side, Planned Parenthood is planning to spend seven-figures on the race in conjunction with its local affiliate, which has already hired staff in several cities to support its get-out-the-vote effort.

Steven Webb, executive director for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin, said that in addition to fieldwork, it is spending on digital advertising, radio and direct mail campaigns as well  its largest investment in any judicial race.

Students for Life is also planning to engage in the race with digital media and outreach to activists on the ground in Wisconsin, while Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, which made a six-figure investment into the primary election, is planning to make another six-figure investment into the general election focusing on mail, texts, live calls and potentially digital.

This is Wisconsins Roe moment. This is the most impactful election from a pro-life perspective that we have had since pre-1973, said Gracie Skogman, legislative and PAC director of Wisconsin Right to Life, a third anti-abortion group. Thats our case to voters: If they are pro-life, lives are on the line, we have a law saving lives, but that laws effectiveness will be determined by this court.
Actors Claire Foy and Rooney Mara are stuck outside the 2023 SAG awards in video taken by Variety co-editor Ramin Setoodeh (Ramin Setoodeh via Twitter)

Hollywood stars including Bill Murray, Claire Foy, and Rooney Mara were left stranded outside the 2023 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards when a fire marshal temporarily blocked access to the venue on Sunday night.

Variety co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh posted video clips on Twitter showing hundreds of formally-attired actors and other attendees milling around at the Fairmont Century Plaza luxury hotel in central Los Angeles.

Total chaos at the SAGA wards as Claire Foy and Rooney Mara are not being allowed inside the ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel  theyre told they need to wait for the Fire Marshal to let them and hundreds of other guests inside, said Mr Setoodeh.

The reporter later added: Even Bill Murray has to wait. This is madness!

Its not yet clear what caused the blockage, but it appeared to be resolved by 5pm local time on Sunday.

The Fire Marshal is not letting movie stars inside the #SAGAwards. Even Bill Murray has to wait. This is madness! pic.twitter.com/gxCsED6uez  Ramin Setoodeh (@RaminSetoodeh) February 27, 2023

This story is developing and will be updated.
Gautam Adani's fortunes have been sinking since the Hindenburg Research report in January. Photo credit should read SAM PANTHAKY/AFP via Getty Images

Gautam Adani's net worth tumbled over $80 billion since the start of 2023, according to Bloomberg.

He's now the 30th richest person in the world, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

He was the third-richest person in the world last month, per Forbes, until a report by short-seller Hindenburg Research.

Gautam Adani's fortunes are plummeting this year after the US-based short-seller Hindenburg Research accused his enterprise Adani Group of fraud.

Adani's net worth is now just shy of $40 billion, according to the latest tally on Monday on the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, and is down more than $80 billion this year. He started the year with a net worth of $121 billion, according to the Bloomberg index, marking this a nearly 67% loss in net worth. Forbes previously reported that Adani had been the third-richest person in the world in January.

He was also unseated as the world's wealthiest Asian person, Forbes reported on February 1, by Reliance Industries tycoon Mukesh Ambani.

In late January, Hindenburg published a report accusing Adani's company of engaging in "a brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud scheme over the course of decades."

Adani Group denied the allegations, with its chief financial officer Jugeshinder Singh saying in a statement at the time that the report contained "selective misinformation and stale, baseless and discredited allegations that have been tested and rejected by India's highest courts."

Adani Group did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment on Monday, sent outside of regular business hours in India.

The Hindenburg report has nonetheless led to a rapid decline in Adani's wealth on paper, with his net worth sinking by more than $5 billion in just one day after the report was released. In the course of about a week of trading after that, his worth declined $52 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Other billionaires to lose large amounts in relatively short spans of time including the disgraced former CEO of the fallen crypto exchange, Sam Bankman-Fried, once worth $26 billion, according to Bloomberg. Bankman-Fried has now been shut out of his company while it's in bankruptcy, and is in home detention while awaiting trial.

Twitter chief Elon Musk lost some $200 billion in net worth last year, becoming the first to do so, as shares of his other company Tesla fell, according to Bloomberg. Musk is still ranked in second place among the world's richest people, with a net worth of $180 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Research suggests that only about 1,000 to 1,500 Principe scops owls exist in the wild. Martim Melo

An international team of biologists has discovered a tiny new species of owl, called the Principe scops owl, living in a remote forest on an island off the west coast of Africa. In this Discovery episode of The Conversation Weekly, we speak with Barbara Freitas, a Ph.D. fellow who studies bird evolution at the National Museum of Natural Sciences in Madrid. She was on the team that discovered the Principe scops owl and talks about how her team discovered this new species and the threats it is already facing.

Principe is a tiny island in the Gulf of Guinea, about 200 miles (320 kilometers) west of Gabon. There is a small town on the north side of the island, but the southern half is mountainous, with dense jungle, and completely uninhabited. In 1998, a biologist named Martim Melo was on a trip to Principe when he started hearing rumors of a mysterious bird that had been scaring local parrot harvesters.

Instead of finding the parrot chicks, they found a weird bird with such big eyes that they didnt know what they were looking at, explains Freitas. Melo was able to get an audio recording of what he believed to be this mystery bird but wasnt able to see one.

The southern half of Principe island is remote, rugged and covered in dense, old growth forest. Alexandre Vaz

Almost two decades later, in 2016, a Belgian bird watcher with a penchant for owls went down to Principe and snapped a photo of a small owl that appeared to confirm the rumors Melo had heard. With these pieces of evidence, Freitas and Melo flew to Principe in 2018 to try to track down this owl.

They needed to catch an owl to confirm if it was indeed a new species, and they were planning to do so by playing the recording Melo had taken 20 years prior. Freitas and Melo would walk into the jungle and play the recording, hoping that if other owls were nearby, they listen to the song and they are attracted to it, Freitas explains. This is because they are territorial, so they come to defend their territory.

Freitas and Melo, with the help of a local park ranger named Ceciliano do Bom Jesus, who goes by Bikegila, traveled to the southern part of the island. And as Freitas tells it, before they even began playing recordings, the owl made itself known.

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We were setting up the camp, putting up the sleeping nets and waiting for it to get dark. And then suddenly, we started to hear the owl, she says.

To hear how Freitas, Melo and Bikegila captured and described the first specimens of the Principe scops owl, what these owls sound like and how this newly discovered species is already threatened by human development, tune in to this Discovery episode of The Conversation Weekly.

This episode was written and produced by Katie Flood and hosted by Dan Merino. The interim executive producer is Mend Mariwany. Eloise Stevens does our sound design, and our theme music is by Neeta Sarl.

You can find us on Twitter @TC_Audio, on Instagram at theconversationdotcom or via email. You can also sign up to The Conversations free daily email here. A transcript of this episode will be available soon.

Listen to The Conversation Weekly via any of the apps listed above, download it directly via our RSS feed or find out how else to listen here.

This article is republished from The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news site dedicated to sharing ideas from academic experts. The Conversation is trustworthy news from experts, from an independent nonprofit. Try our free newsletters.

It was written by: Daniel Merino, The Conversation.

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Barbara Freitas receives funding from FCT-Fundacao para a Ciencia e Tecnologia, Portugal. Forever Principe Conservation Alliance (from Africas Eden), National Geographic Society (Early career grant - EC-364C-18),
Julieta Cervantes

This isnt a prediction. But one day black odyssey (Classic Stage Company, to March 26) should be mounted on a Broadway stage in front of the kind of engaged audience this critic saw the show around this weekend. The show feels like an irresistible hit on a small stage that would happily occupy every inch of a bigger one. Moving, fierce, laugh-out-very-loud funny, beautifully lit (by Adam Honore), designed (David Goldstein), and directed by Stevie Walker-Webb, in black odyssey playwright Marcus Gardley takes Homers The Odyssey, and recasts it as an epic poem in four acts around Black history, pain, joy, resistance, love, and power.

For Colored Girls Beautifully Raises Black Womens Voices on Broadway

Over a two and a half hour span we follow the journey of Ulysses Lincoln (Sean Boyce Johnson), who in 2017 is trying to return home from serving in Afghanistan. He is riven with guilt at a particular killing he has carried outin this case, sadly for him, the son of God Paw Sidin (Jimonn Cole).

The latter wants to ensure Ulysses goes through every pain and hardship imaginable as he desperately tries to return home to Harlem and his wife Nella (D. Woods)He shot my son in the face so Im eatin him. Revenge is a meal best served raw. Paw Sidin is also engaged in a battle of wills and dares with brother Deus (James T. Alfred), and soas we initially seethis is a chess-game with frightening consequences.

Just as the Greeks believed that we are flies when it came to the Gods making sport of us, so the characters in black odyssey are all too keenly aware of the forceswhether gods, governments, or the forces of capitalism and white supremacythat govern Black lives far out of their control. The production weaves together mythology and Black history, and features notably gorgeous costumes designed by Kindall Almond that run the gamut from basic combat fatigues to extravagant seventies glam.

In both Ulysses quest to get home and atone for what he has done, and what is happening in that homeNella trying to raise their son Malachi (a neatly spiky and stroppy Marcus Gladney Jr.)we see those forces try to do their worst, as a mother does her best while still hoping against her hope that her husband will return to her. The show does not just stay in the modern day, but ranges freely through time to the Civil Rights Era, where we meet another family (Adrienne C. Moore, Lance Coadie Williams, Temidayo Amay) trying literally to stay afloat.

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In their sea of an environmental catastropheHurricane Katrinathey spy other icons of Black history alive and engaged in their own battles of survival, including Emmett Till.

Julieta Cervantes

Time bends this way and that in black odyssey, eventually leading to the arrival of Harriett D. Foys Aunt Tee. We all need an Aunt Tee in our lives. Frankly, the world would best be run by Aunt Tee, a commanding diva, fiercely protective, free in her judgments, and passionate in her loyalty and loveand she wears the hell out of a pair of white boots. God knows you could use a hot bath, hot comb, and a hot oil treatment. You done gave up on yourself, havent you? she tells Nella when she turns up at her Harlem home to take charge.

Her on-the-money summation of Malachais transgressions are: Hes a teenager. This the shit they do. I been watchin Euphoria. You got to let him do dumb stuff like come home early and wear saggy pants that show his underwear and eat like we dont feed him and paint his hair all kinds of colors and stare at girls like hes possessed and play that Xbox all hours of the night and walk with his head down and drag his feet and smell like eggs.

The story, just like time in the play, lurches merrily backwards and forwards, and you may feel a little confused at moments as the show goes (a little too long) on; characters and storylines from Homers original are repurposed or jettisoned altogether. The outrageous characters inevitably have way more fun than Ulysses (whose only bit of personal let-looseness is the discovery that he can dance) and the long-suffering Nella.

Foy relishes every regal, scene-swiping line she is given. Moore also gleefully dominates the stage in the moment she transforms into a ravenous Circe, keen to seduce a lost, and understandably hungry Ulysses as she drawls a poem of unctuously edible lust: Scent of mint, of toffee, coffee newly brewed/Mouths water like ice droplets on crystal glass/Eyes tear from steamy vegetable, hot potato and corn mash/When butter beans turn an eat me green/Melting margarine into a golden glisten/And if you listen... you can hear guts growlin

Alfred plays it straight and sonorous as Deus, beforein orange flares and platform bootstaking over the stage as Super Fly Tireseas, the shagadelic prophet. Diana Ross, Tina Turner, and James Brown make their presences known. There are other striking set-pieces; the one which got our audience most fired up occurs when Nella stands on the brink of making Paw Sidins villainous ambitions come true, as now disguised, he tries to make her say that she loves him and not Ulysses. Dont do it girl! came one shout from the front row.

The culmination of the show brings us to the present day, the end of Ulysses odyssey, and quieter final displays of atonement, redemption, and family. black odyssey does not sugarcoat, but it emphasizes that beyond merely surviving oppression and attack are the consolidating forces of love, strength, and power.

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Milan Fashion Week

Milan Fashion Week is almost over, but Black women  as usual  stole the show.

First up was Rihanna, who came to Italy to slay with her beau, A$AP Rocky, and the couples baby son. Fans may not receive new music this year after the Super Bowl pregnancy announcement, but they will receive a great look or two from the fashion icon. Donning a black hoodie and ankle-length coat, Rihanna served effortless airport style as she navigated the area with her son and boyfriend. The Daily Mail reported that the self-made billionaire attended several womens ready-to-wear shows.

Despite the lack of diversity in designers at Milan Fashion Week, other fashion houses have made an effort to be inclusive with their models.

Earlier in the month esteemed fashion designer, Stella Jean, 44, announced that neither she nor five members and designers of color from the We Are Made in Italy collective would participate in Fashion Week. Jean was the only Black designer in the show. Jean later told the Associated Press, that the Italian National Fashion Chamber, had significantly cut back support for the We Are Made in Italy collective of young designers of color working in Italy after she made an impassioned speech about the personal price she had paid for highlighting racial injustice in Italy during a runway show last September.

Despite the unfortunate news at the beginning of the month. Milan Fashion Week caused quite a stir. Fortunately, Rihanna wasnt the only Black woman killing the scene!

Alva Claire

British model Alva Claire came in hot at the GCDSWEAR Milan Fashion Week show. Donning a chocolate brown trench coat with a white Oxford shirt and a toffee-colored tie, Claires look was accessorized with metallic gold knee-high boots and a gold embellished handbag. The British model has been signed for more than a decade but didnt receive the recognition of Britains Next Top Model until 2021 when she walked in the Versace SS221, following in the footsteps of the iconic Naomi Campbell.

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Aweng Ade-Chuol

South Sudanese Australian model Aweng Ade-Chuol walked in the Diesel AW23 Milan Fashion Week show against a tower of condoms, an ode to safe sex and the Diesel/Durex collaboration. Ade-Chuol was clad in a muted grey relaxed set with black detailing. She accessorized with a large red choker, but the star of the look was Ade-Chuols flawless skin and simple straight-back cornrows.

Adut Akech

The 510 South Sudanese Australian model gave hair-raising chills as she walked the Moschino runway during Milan Fashion Week. A hairpiece adorned her crown that modeled feathers. Akech was adorned in a white knit skirt and blazer emblazoned with gold trim. Her look was completed with gold buckled pumps and a medium gold adorned bag. The asymmetrical shape of the skirt added depth to the ensemble.

Simz

British artist Simz graced the Prada show at Milan Fashion Week. Clad in a white turtleneck, khaki bottoms, and an oversized coat, Simz is accessorized with chunky platform black loafers, black leather gloves, and a black beret. For a pop of color, Simz wore a yellow Prada handbag.

Halle Bailey

Artist and actress Halle Bailey also attended Milan Fashion Week. The Little Mermaid star wore a pink ensemble that graced her silhouette and accessorized with red strappy sandals. Halle kept it very simple and chic.

Jodie Turner-Smith

Finally, Jodie Turner-Smith attended the Gucci show during Milan Fashion Week. She went full Grace Jones and opted for a sleek silhouette with thigh-high black leather boots, black tights, and a gold metallic and black top paired with a large patent leather belt to emphasize her waist and a pair of Gucci shades. A simple black hat finished the look.

The post These Black Women Slayed Milan Fashion Week appeared first on 21Ninety.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday pledged more than $444 million in additional aid to Yemen as it faces what the secretary called the worlds worst humanitarian crisis of conflict, economic instability, food insecurity and other issues.

As one of the largest donors, this brings our total to the humanitarian response in Yemen to over $5.4 billion since the conflict began. The United States commitment to alleviating the suffering of millions from the worlds worst humanitarian crisis in Yemen remains resolute, Blinken said in a statement.

The secretary said the new millions in aid are exemplifying the continued generosity of the people of the United States for the people of Yemen.

The United Nations has estimated that $4.3 billion needs to be raised to reverse a steady deterioration across the country, and Blinken on Monday urged donors to give generously in order to meet that benchmark.

While todays pledges are important, much more is needed, Blinken said, noting the U.N. assessment that two out of every three Yemenis need humanitarian assistance.

But the secretary stressed humanitarian assistance must also be complemented by economic and development support to Yemens destabilized economy.

More than eight years of conflict have pushed Yemens economy and institutions to the brink. Families have been left unable to buy basic goods, provide for their children, or access healthcare. The United States continues our efforts to help stabilize Yemens economy and restore basic services and livelihoods, Blinken said.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Monday that the international community has the power and the means to end the crisis in Yemen and re-upped the international organizations fundraising appeal.

The U.N. on Monday hosted the Yemen Conference 2023, described as a high-level pledging event to seek international help in raising awareness of the crisis, protecting existing improvements, mobilizing support and calling for an end to the conflict.

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Blinken on Monday described a glimmer of hope in spite of the bleak humanitarian picture, saying that Yemen is experiencing the best opportunities for peace in years amid the ongoing fighting within the country.

Building on the momentum from the UN-mediated truce, the parties now have the chance to end this war. The international community must do everything we can to help  including through strong support to the Yemen humanitarian response  to build further positive momentum and ensure Yemenis see the tangible benefits peace can bring, Blinken said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Editor's note: Below are updates for the first week of testimony beginning Feb. 27 in James Irven Staley III's murder trial in connection with the death of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018, in Wichita Falls.

Wilder was found dead in Staley's home, and law enforcement officials suspect the child was smothered with a pillow. Staley has maintained his innocence.

The blog for Week Two of testimony is here. A jury is expected to hear closing arguments and deliberate on a verdict Monday, March 13. Check the Week Three blog for live updates.

FORT WORTH, Texas  4:19 p.m. Friday, March 3: WFPD Detective Tanner Fowler says the department also got a judge to sign a second search warrant for the Mac mini belonging to Wilder.

That was because of evolving technology, Fowler tells the jury. He says the GoPro video appearing to show Staley slapping Wilder was retrieved in the first search, and the video was also was found in the second search.

Gillespie introduces screenshots from videos retrieved from Staley's phone. Defense attorneys review them before Fowler testifies. He goes up to a large video screen facing the jury. It is used to show screenshots.

Fowler testifies that the screenshots show the clothing Staley and Wilder are wearing are consistent in the GoPro video of Wilder apparently being slapped and the shiner video.

He tells the jury the arm of Staley's daughter is visible in the shiner video, and she can be seen in the background of GoPro video. She is wearing a light-colored shirt in both videos.

The prosecution is trying to show that both videos were made on the same day. Sept. 1, 2018, might be that day.

During cross examination, defense attorney Terri Moore asks him if the metadata isn't the place to find out when a video is made.

Fowler said no, because some information might be incorrect for certain reasons.

The judge releases the jury at 4:50 p.m. and tells them to return at 9 a.m. Monday.

The judge tells them not to discuss or speculate about the case among themselves or other people.

Story continues

2:41 p.m. Friday, March 3: The detective whose testimony was just wrangled over is sworn in.

He is WFPD Detective Tanner Fowler of the Crimes Against Persons Unit.

Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner, second from left, and Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie, third from left, are shown Thursday, March 2, 2023, after a day in a Fort Worth courtroom in the James Irven Staley III murder trial in connection with the death of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel.

He is called to give testimony about electronic messages retrieved from Staley's cell phone between he and the mother of his daughter, as well as between Staley and his mother in October 2018 after Wilder's death.

Fowler testifies that he resubmitted a warrant for Staley's cell phone because there had been a development in technology. The phone was resubmitted to a Secret Service lab in San Antonio.

The judge sends the jury out for a short break so the defense can see some evidence about to be submitted. About 3 p.m., the jury is back, and someone turns the lights off to show videos.

The first video is a short one in which Staley is trying to get Wilder to tell something to Amber.

Say something to your mom. What are you going to say to your mom? Staley says.

Hi, Mommy, I love you," Wilder said in part of the video.

The prosecution shows the full shiner video, as well as several edited versions of it.

Fowler testifies that using a Cellebrite digital forensics tool, he found that these videos were sent out to others after Wilder's death, including Nancy Staley and Tara Campisi, the mother of Staley's daughter.

On the full version, Staley asks Wilder if he thought Staley pushed him off the bed.

"Yes," Wilder says.

Staley laughs a little and says, apparently to Amber, "Baby, he has a shiner, and he fell off the bed."

A Wichita County grand jury indicted Staley on a charge of injury to a child in connection with an Aug. 31, 2018, incident. It is alleged to have happened while Staley was babysitting Wilder, and Amber was at work tending bar.

After the videos, the defense objects to some evidence, and sotto voice consultations are carried out with the judge and both sides as a waiting silence settles on the courtroom.

The judge rules the evidence, electronic messages retrieved from Staley's phone, is allowed.

The messages are between Staley and Tara Campisi, the mother of Staley's then 4-year-old daughter, in October after Wilder's death.

They have a heated exchange over how Campisi says Staley has treated their daughter in relation to her interview for the injury to a child case against Staley.

I swear on my life you have seriously (expletive) up this time. You cannot be left alone with my daughter," Campisi says.

She tells Staley he grilled their daughter about her interview

She tells him to go work on himself and that he can't see their child until his legal situation is resolved.

Staley also messages his mother, Nancy Staley, in October after Wilder dies, complaining about Campisi.

Family and supporters of Justice for Wilder react Oct. 8, 2020, after Wichita Falls Police and the Wichita County District Attorneys Office announced the arrest of James Staley III for the murder of Jason Wilder McDaniel.

1:33 p.m. Friday, March 3: The jury is still out of the courtroom after lunch at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center because the judge wants to read his instructions about the videos to the prosecution and defense.

These are instructions Senior District Judge Everett Young will give to jurors before they see the videos. The defense reasserts some objections raised before the trial about the videos. Young says he overrules them again.

The jury comes back about 11:43, and Erin McDonald, a digital forensics expert, takes the stand. She is with the North Texas Regional Computer Forensic Lab.

On Nov. 9, 2018, she received devices including a Mac mini, cell phones and a gray HP laptop, McDonald tells the jury. They are devices the WFPD collected from Staley's Wichita Falls home on Oct. 22, 2018, by serving a search warrant.

McDonald tells the jury that the HP laptop didn't have much information on it, and that a cleaner program installation file had been downloaded on it.

The judge gives the jury instructions about how to consider the slap video. Four Tarrant County deputies station themselves around the courtroom, keeping eyes on everyone.

The video begins, and Staley rises up behind Wilder on the couch, swings his hand back and down. The crash of the slap rings out in the courtroom, which has been darkened so jurors can better see the video.

Some jurors wipe their eyes, one brings out a tissue and a man on the jury clasps his hands and holds them in front of his face, hunched over with his elbows leaning on his knees for the first few minutes of the video.

Some sitting in the gallery wipe their eyes. Wilder's maternal grandmother is not present although Bubba McDaniels Uncle Billy Robinson is. Bubba is Wilders dad.

Please note: A TRN reporter mistook Robinson for another one of Wilders relatives here in the part above and in an earlier update. We apologize for the confusion.

After the video is over, the lights come back on, and McDonald continues her testimony. The child's grandmother and others return.

The judge once again gives the jury instructions about how to consider the next video, and the lights go off to show a clip apparently edited by Staley to be shorter than the full video.

Staley and Wilder appear in the short video, and Staley asks Wilder if he fell off the bed, and says Wilder has a knot that he wants Amber, the child's mother to see.

It is quite the shiner," Staley says.

After the video is played, the judge sends the jury out of the room, and the defense objects to the prosecution calling a detective to give an opinion about the videos and whether they were made on the same day.

Defense attorney Terri Moore says the detective is just a lay person and not an expert.

Wichita County DA John Gillespie says he has designated the detective an expert, and the detective will give evidence as to why he thinks the slap video and the shiner video were made on the same day.

Gillespie says the detective is "a hybrid expert" because of his training and experience.

Defense attorney Mark G. Daniel says the judge should have a hearing to determine whether the detective qualifies as an expert.

Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner said the detective will testify about his observations of photographs and videos, comparing sets of them to each other.

"All that requires is a pair of eyeballs. That is not expert testimony," Tanner says.

The judge says he will allow the detective to testify as a lay witness without the hearing.

Jason Wilder McDaniel

11:40 a.m. Friday, March 3: With the jury gone to lunch, attorneys and the judge take up the matter of an eight-minute video showing Staley slapping a sleeping Wilder from behind and then pretending he didn't do it.

A hearing will take place so the judge can decide whether or not to admit that video and two others as evidence under rules for extraneous offenses.

The court does expect order to be maintained during the hearing," Senior District Judge Everett Young tells observers in the gallery.

Young says he expects it will be disturbing to some, and they may need to take a break from court.

I dont want there to be any outbursts or issues, so I will give you a couple of minutes to consider your presence here," the judge says.

Wilder's grandmother, Dina Taylor, and others leave the courtroom. Billy Robinson, another relative of Wilder, stays.

The judge watches the video that Staley, himself, created with a GoPro camera. It's the same video that Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner mentioned to the jury in her opening statement.

The slap is loud on the video as Staley's hand makes contact with Wilder, who is sleeping sitting up on a couch.

The blow makes the child wake up crying and screaming in a darkened room. Staley gets up from behind the couch that Wilder was sleeping on, seeming to loom up out of the darkness in his white clothing.

Still behind the couch, he opens and closes a door that leads outside, apparently so he can pretend he has been outside. With no Staley in sight, Wilder says "No, James," and eventually calms himself. He calls for Staley, saying, "Daddy."

It should be noted the reaction of Wilder's father, Bubba McDaniel, to the above is this: "Guaranteed he wasn't asking for that (abbreviated expletive) as DADDY... he knew, God it hurts my heart to read and know." Bubba wrote this Saturday, March 4, 2023, on his Facebook page.

On the video: "I'm right here, baby," Staley says. "I was outside, and I heard you crying about something."

HWhat's said is not always discernable on the video. At some point, the lights are flicked on in the room. Staley goes on and off camera. Eventually both leave and go off camera.

Staley says, "Wilder, do you want chocolate milk?"

Later, Staley says, Wilder, why were you crying while I is was outside?

I dont know," Wilder said.

"You started screaming bloody murder," Staley said.

Staley jokes about it and makes fun of Wilder some, and the child laughs along. At some point, Staley tells Wilder he loves him, and, still off camera, Staley can be heard telling Wilder how to do something.

He quickly grows angry and yells at Wilder when the child doesn't do as he wants. Wilder starts crying.

In the video, Staley veers from apparent cruelty to offering chocolate milk and being loving, to making fun of the child to anger.

The prosecution wants the jury to see this video and two others concerning injuries to Wilder's head after, according to Staley, he fell out of bed.

Wilder refutes this account in the video Staley made to show Amber the child's "shiner" and a knot on his head. Wilder indicates in the video that Staley pushed him off the bed.

Prosecutors contend the videos speak to Staley's prior relationship with Wilder, as well as prior abuse of the child captured on video Step. 1, 2018.

That video tells us he doesnt just have a bad sense of humor. Hes got a bad heart," Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner says about the slap video.

In addition, prosecutors say the videos show intent and preparation to carry out a plan to kill Wilder. They allege Staley was setting up a fall history for Wilder so he could make it look like he fell out of his crib Oct. 11, 2018.

The defense argues against the jury seeing the videos. But the judge rules the conduct shown in the videos is relevant and it fits the rules for allowing it in to show all the facts and circumstances of the case, as well as the previous relationship between Staley and wilder and the state of mind of the accused.

The judge dismissed the defense and prosecution about 12:30 p.m. after his ruling, telling them to be back from lunch at 1:30 p.m.

James I. Staley III

11:15 a.m. Friday, March 3: The WFPD dispatcher testifies about the 911 call from Staley's home the morning of Oct. 11, 2018, p.m.

The 911 call is played and Amber McDaniel, Wilder's mom, can be heard on the line, screaming and hysterical. The call lasted 2 minutes and 3 seconds.

The dispatcher testifies that she had a hard time understanding the address because Amber was hysterical.

Amber had worked as a 911 dispatcher, herself, for at least a year, but the dispatcher who takes her emergency call does not recognize her voice.

On the call, Amber is heard screaming and crying. What she is saying is often indiscernible.

Please! she says.

"What are the numbers?" the dispatcher says, trying to get her address.

Amber gives her the address numbers.

"Are you needing an ambulance?" the dispatcher asks Amber.

Amber says yes, and the dispatcher tells her not to hang up.

Oh, my God! Oh, my God!" Amber says. She is crying and still hysterical.

AMR Ambulance can be heard on the line, and the dispatcher gives her the address.

Did she tell you what happened? the AMR staff member says.

I cant understand what shes saying," the WFPD dispatcher says.

Later, supervisors figure out that it was Amber on the 911 call, and they are concerned, the dispatcher testifies. She thinks a supervisor contacted Sgt. Charlie Eipper because of their concern.

The dispatcher is dismissed at 11:36 since the defense does not want to cross examine her. The judge sends the jury to lunch.

11 a.m. Friday, March 3: Defense attorney Terri Moore starts her cross examination at about 11:03 a.m.

She wants to know if the records indicate someone with an erratic schedule, and Hawks agrees.

Hawks testifies that his information could not show if a phone is reacting to social media or posting on it.

The defense has contended that Amber's phone was reacting to social media and making a post during the time when she was supposedly asleep leading up to her discovery of Wilder's body by his crib in Staley's County Club area phone.

Gillespie begins his turn at questioning Hawks again like this, "Let's say that somebody commits murder."

And that person wants to go somewhere briefly to calm down, so the person goes to work, would the cell tower information for Staley's phone be consistent with that? the DA said.

Hawks says, yes, it is, as well as consistent with disposing if something in a dumpster a person might know of in the area.

The phone appeared to be there for a little bit of the time, but that could be one of the stops," Hawks says.

The phone was away from the house potentially as long as an hour," he testifies.

9:15 a.m. Friday, March 3: This is the fifth day of testimony in the murder trial of James Irven Staley III, who is accused of killing 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018, in the defendant's Wichita Falls home.

This morning's witnesses so far have been testifying regarding cell phone forensics and apparently providing the jury with a history of how the data was extracted from the phones and basically proving up its authenticity.

On Wednesday, jurors heard a sample of messages between Amber McDaniel, Wilder's mom, and Staley from July 2018 through October 2018, including some after the child's death.

There were over 9,000 messages between them found in text, Snapchat and Facebook messenger they exchanged during the approximately three months of their relationship.

The first witness is a digital forensics expert who is on the stand only for a short time.

Retired Wichita Falls Police Department Jason Jones takes the stand about 9:30 a.m. He retired Feb. 28 and now works for MSU Texas police.

At the end of his career at WFPD, he worked in financial crimes and cell phone forensics.

Under questioning from Wichita County DA John Gillespie, Jones confirms he used Cellebrite, a digital forensics tool, to prepare information from an iPhone 8 for detectives.

The defense declines to question him, and he steps down at 9:39 a.m.

Jason Hawks is then called to the stand. He is an expert at cell phone tower data analysis. Hawks flew in from Southern California last night during the dodgy weather.

He has analyzed cell records for a pattern of life analysis. That means looking at different historical records to analyze a person's cell phone activities.

Hawk's testimony is careful and incremental and sometimes math-laden, but it pays off for the proseuction.

The importance of it is that the cell phone tower data Hawk has mined indicates that there was a period in the early morning hours of Oct. 11 during which Staley was not at his home on Irving Place but was at or near his workplace near Taft Boulevard and Southwest Parkway.

The former cop who has been certified as an expert 40 times presents this timeline of where Amber and Staley's phones were at the time in question on Oct. 11:

2:33 a.m. Amber and Staley's cell phones are both at home.

2:53 a.m. Staley's phone is in the vicinity of his workplace, which is near Southwest Parkway and Taft Boulevard. Amber's phone is at home.

3:30 a.m. Staley's phone is back at home. Amber's phone is at home.

So Hawks' testimony indicates Staley left his home in the early morning hours of Oct. 11 and went to the area of his work, opening up a line of suspicion for the prosecution to capitalize on.

In earlier testimony, there has been some mention of the WFPD getting information that led to a quest for gas station video in that area and possibly a search of dumpsters.

Hawks shows the jury maps with highlighted areas showing where cell phone tower usage indicates the phones were.

Hawks says "the area of," however and has already explained that his analysis can't pinpoint exactly where a phone has been.

He sifted through AT&T records from April 1 through Oct. 11 to create his analysis.

In the 70-plus days of information that he analyzed, Hawks found only one other quick back and forth trip from home to work back to home for Staley's phone. That similar trip was on Aug. 7, 2018.

Defense attorney Terri Moore starts her cross examination at about 11:03 a.m.

James Irven Staley III is on trial for a murder charge in this courtroom at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center in Fort Worth. Staley is accused of killing 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel Oct. 11, 2018.

3:20 p.m. Thursday, March 2: Amber McDaniel's sister takes the stand to testify.

Shalah Wakefield of Wichita Falls fights back tears at times.

She testifies that Wilder was very attached to his mom, Amber, and very close to her.

Wakefield told the jury that mother and son were "adventurous. They were never just sitting at home."

Amber's motherhood was "literally probably one of the most natural things I've ever witnessed," Wakefield testified.

Wakefield testifies that Wilder started saying, "No James!"

"Honestly, I didn't know what to think at first," Wakefield said.

She knew Staley was a new person in Wilder's life. During a cookout on Oct. 6, 2018, at Staley's house, Wilder spent most of his time in her lap. He did not want to interact with Staley.

Oct. 7, 2018, stands out in her mind because it was the last time she saw Wilder alive, Wakefield said. She stopped by her parents' house to see the child, who was running around in his pajamas and playing.

Amber came to pick him up, and Wilder became upset and started saying, "No James!" They started toward the backdoor.

"He reached over Amber's shoulder to me and yelled to me to come and get him," Wakefield testified. "The last words I heard him say were, "No James! No James! They walked out the back door with him continuing to reach over his shoulder for me."

On the day Wilder was found dead, Wakefield went to Staley's home on Irving Place. There, she saw her mother, Dina Taylor, outside in extreme duress while David Taylor, her stepfather, held her up.

Amber came out of the house, walked past Wakefield down the driveway and fell on her knees, Wakefield told the jury.

"She's broken. Amber died with Wilder that day," Wakefield testified.

Wilder was "just so happy, full of life loving, just the sweetest kid I've ever met, and I've got three kids of my own," Wakefield testified.

Defense attorney Terri Moore cross examines Wakefield, asking if she is aware that Wilder often said, "No Summer! No Summer! about Amber's then best friend.

That is what she has been told, Wakefield told the jury.

With storms expected, the judge dismissed the jury about 3:45 p.m.

2:16 p.m. Thursday, March 2: Special prosecutor Lisa Tanner and expert witness Tim Allen are reading messages counting down to Wilder's death at this point.

The evening of Oct. 10, 2018, the day before Wilder's death, Staley says he will stop ignoring Wilder and whip him if he acts up.

Amber says Staley should give Wilder a minute to realize he's being ignored.

At 2:20 p.m., Tanner and Allen stop reading the messages, and defense attorney Terri Moore begins her cross examination of Allen, a former Secret Service agent who is an expert in digital forensics.

Allen confirms that there are 9,751 messages between Amber and Staley and that Gillespie has picked some from them for the jury to hear.

"Since he cherry picked, let me cherry pick a few of them," Moore said.

She has Allen read Staley's part in romantic messages while she reads Amber's part. They sound like two people falling in love.

In response to a question from Moore, Allen says that he's been married many years, and his wife doesn't talk that way to him.

"I love the little nugget. I love you both so much," Staley says.

"We love you, too," Amber says.

In early October, Staley says, I dont ever want you to leave.

And I dont ever want to bug you or make you feel suffocated," Amber says,

"You never do. . . . You are my snuggle bug, and I miss you," Staley says.

On Oct. 9, Staley says, Im sorry Im being a (expletive). Im stressed out

Its all right," Amber says.

No its not," Staley says.

I know Im a brat sometimes," Amber says.

Moore unsuccessfully seeks Allen's opinion as to whether the preceeding exchange shows a vulnerability on Staley's part.

"You dont want to answer? OK," Moore says when Allen indicates that.

Allen is dismissed from the stand at about 3:02 p.m. The judge gives the jury a break.

1:20 p.m. Thursday, March 2: Back from lunch, Allen and Tanner continue reading the messages between Amber and Staley.

Wilder continues to be the butt of jokes in their messages, and at times, his father Bubba McDaniel is mentioned in a derogatory manner.

Jason Wilder McDaniel is shown here with his mother, Amber McDaniel.

Amber defends Wilder but sometimes joins in.

Only the good die young. . . . That (expletive) is living forever," Staley messages.

LMAO Stop. . . . My poor baby has a (expletive) sperm donor," Amber says.

LOL. Hes got an awesome mother. . . . We will have more kids," Staley says. He speculates that maybe SIDS will strike Wilder.

Amber tells him not to say that.

Thats bad karma," she says.

Staley tells her, Im talking (expletive) with you  I really do love the little guy.

Staley often refers to Wilder with a racial slur. One day, Amber tells Staley that Wilder is "being an extra person of color today."

Some messages seem chilling even though Staley apparently couches them as his brand of humor.

Staley says to Amber, "Like I said the other day, you make me feel like I matter. Like Im important. . . . If this doesnt work out. Dont worry. Ill kill you.

So theirs will be the last relationship she's ever in, Staley says.

9:20 a.m. Thursday, March 2: Expert witness Tim Allen is on the stand testifying about electronic messages he has retrieved from the cell phone of James Irven Staley III.

Staley, 40, is accused of murdering 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018, in the defendant's Wichita Falls home.

Allen formerly served as a special agent with the Secret Service, and his expertise includes digital forensics, cybersecurity and electronic crimes.

This is the fourth day of testimony in Staley's murder trial at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center in downtown Fort Worth.

The messages are cell phone texts and from Facebook Messenger and Snapchat. They include the period from July 2018 through October 2018.

No caption

More:Childhood friend testifies against Staley

Allen reads some of the messages in court at the prompting of Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie.

The DA introduces a state's exhibit consisting of a thick, ring binder maybe 3 or 4 inches thick  of pages and pages of messages.

After a short break, the jurors each receive binders containing the messages to flip through and follow along as they are read. Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner reads the part of them sent by Amber McDaniel, Wilder's mother. Allen reads Staley's part.

The dozens and dozens of messages seem to show the arc of their relationship from a hopeful beginning to the dark days after Amber found Wilder deceased on the floor near his crib in a bedroom of Staley's home.

In some messages, Staley reminds Amber of his wealth and resources, haranguing her to quit her job at a bar that he can buy if he wanted to or joking he's going to leave Wilder some lighters so he can do an insurance job and burn down Staley's Country Club area home.

You worry me sometimes," Amber says, adding happy face emojis.

Staley says he is joking.

"If he burned it down, we could take that money and really make it sick. LOL" he messages.

In July 2018, Amber tells Staley that she and her child "are a package deal. . . . Im 100 percent when Im with someone, but Wilder is with me 24/7.Staley says, "I'll give it my best. . . . I dont need to be fixed. I just need some help to keep from breaking myself over and over again.

He tells Amber that he has problems with bipolar and depression issues.

She later tells him that she doesn't think he needs to be fixed, but she needs to be focused for school.

(Amber went to school to become a respiratory therapist.)

The messages are full of Staley saying gay and racial slurs about Wilder, at times as if they are pet names. The defendant makes pitch black jokes about buying a ball gag or a shock collar for Wilder, punching the child or putting him in the "tinderbox."

In turn, Amber tells Staley she can't wait for him to get old so she can push his wheelchair out in the street.

Staley tells her those are the kind of jokes he likes. They can be mean but have to be funny.

Amber says she can't wait to do life with him.

Were going to have so much fun," Staley says.

Staley often complains about Wilder's behavior to Amber, who reminds him the child is only 2 and still getting a handle on controlling his emotions.

The messages show repeated arguments over Wilder during which Staley criticizes Amber's parenting and urges her to make Wilder mind. She replies that she is trying and still learning as a mom.

More than once, they exchange break-up messages but then get back together. Wilder ends up with a suspicious injury one night while she's working at the bar and the child is in Staley's care.

Staley demands she quit her job or lose him, resorting to calling Amber names.

Tanner and Allen read the messages in a conversational way but fairly quickly, calling out various emojis.

Senior District Judge Everett Young sends the jury to lunch about noon. They are to return at 1 p.m.

Wichita Falls police investigator Walter Vermillion testifies during Christopher Lynn Petty's aggravated sexual assault trial at the Wichita County Courthouse as shown in this Sept. 15, 2021, file photo.

2:48 p.m. Wednesday, March 1: WFPD officer Walter Vermillion takes the stand.

A longtime Wichita Falls police officer, Vermillion was in the Crimes Against Children Unit at the time of Wilder's death.

Questioned by DA Gillespie, Vermillion is testifying about what the DA calls the "God, I hate [gay slur] kids group text." The detective said he knew about the text messages Staley sent to his friends.

During the Oct. 22, 2018, search of Staley's home, Vermillion saw a Mac mini in a closet and told a crime scene technician to seize it, he told the jury.

Vermillion said he knew a Mac mini can be synched with other devices. The search warrant for Staley's home signed by retired 78th District Judge Barney Fudge allowed for the seizure of clothing, as well as electronic devices.

He testified that a Mac mini is a small computer or hard drive that can use apps.

Vermillion escapes cross examination by the defense and is allowed to step down at about 3 p.m. But he is called back to the stand briefly at 3:17 p.m. after a break.

Jason Wilder McDaniel

Gillespie asks Vermillion to verify serial numbers of the Mac mini and a gray laptop, and he does.

Vermillion steps down from the stand again at 3:19 p.m. Amber Koch comes forward to testify right after that.

Koch testifies she worked with Staley from about Jan. 2017 to December 2018 in an office in the 4700 block of Taft Street. Staley and his partner worked there in the energy business.

Koch met Amber McDaniel once but never met Wilder. She testified that Staley sent her a video apparently taken by Amber M., who asks Wilder if he is pooping. In the video, Wilder is kneeling down, and he tells his mom, no.

Koch told the jury it was an innocent video, but she thought it was odd Staley sent it to her.

One day, Staley told her that Amber M. was no longer working because one night while she was at work and Wilder was in Staley's care, the child hit his head, but Staley couldn't reach Amber M., Koch testified.

"I believe he said he was going to pay her bills because she quit her job," Koch testified.

Staley told Koch he loved Amber and wanted to be with her or marry her. Koch expressed doubts to Staley about him and stepparenting, she testified.

Koch testified that she thinks Staley is manipulative.

During defense attorney Mark G. Daniel's cross examination of Koch, he points out the video was of a child's cute moment, showing Wilder saying he is not pooping when he actually was.

Koch confirms that she did believe Staley loved Wilder and Amber M. and that they spoke of personal matters in the office.

The judge dismisses the jury about 3:30 p.m., and the trial is over for the day.

It should be noted that at this point, three women named Amber have been mentioned or testified in the trial:

Amber McDaniel, who was Amber Odom at the time of her child Wilder's death. She has not yet testified although she has been spoken of much during the trial.

Amber Campisi, who is aunt to Staley's daughter with her sister, Tara Campisi. She testified Wednesday about electronic messages she received from Staley on Oct. 11 and Oct. 12 of 2018.

Amber Koch, who worked with Staley in the energy business in Wichita Falls. She testified Wednesday about conversations with Staley regarding Amber M., Wilder and stepparenting, as well as a video he sent her of Wilder.

Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner leaves court after the third day of testimony in James Irven Staley III's murder trial on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at the Tim Curry Criminal Justice Center in Fort Worth.

2:31 p.m. Wednesday, March 1: Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie takes over questioning retired detective Betty Dean, asking her about a child abuse pediatrician law-enforcement officials have consulted before.

Dean steps down at about 2:30 p.m., and the judge gives the jury a recess.

Some familiar faces in North Texas law enforcement showed up Wednesday to observe the trial, including 97th DA Casey Hall, 97th Assistant DA Judy Price, and 97th DA's Investigator Chris Hamilton.

1:18 p.m. Wednesday, March 1: Betty Dean, a retired WFPD detective, is testifying about responding to Staley's home the day Wilder was found dead.

When she saw blood on Wilder's mouth, she checked his upper and lower frenulum for damage and found none, Dean testified.

The frenulum are folds of skin inside the mouth that may be damaged in certain instances.

Dean found two empty wine bottles in the trash during her examination of the home, she told the jury.

"I detected the odor of alcoholic beverage on her breath," Dean testified.

The detective had tried to console Amber McDaniel, Wilder's mom, who was very upset, and noticed the smell of alcohol while hugging her, Dean told the jury.

Dean asked ambulance personnel who responded to document everything they saw and heard since police were dealing with a child's death.

On Oct. 18, 2011, Dean drove to the Collin County Child Advocacy Center and interviewed Staley's then 4-year-old daughter, the detective testified.

In addition, Dean was one of the officers present Oct. 22, 2018, when a search warrant was served on Staley's home in the Country Club area of Wichita Falls. She testified that she took Staley's cell phone that day.

Retiring Wichita Falls police officer Betty Dean received hugs and well-wishes during a retirement ceremony as shown in this April 2, 2021, file photo.

"I asked for the passcode from James Staley," Dean testified. "I explained that I only wanted to put it in airplane mode."

Staley declined, she told the jury.

Dean testified that she turned his cell phone off and put it in the trunk of her vehicle. On Oct. 23, 2018, she put the phone into the WFPD property room.

Under cross examination from defense attorney Terri Moore, Dean agreed that the most important thing she did Oct. 11, 2018, was look at Wilder's body.

Dean testifies that she made it known that Amber had formerly worked for the WFPD in case someone involved in the case knew her.

Amber was a dispatcher for Wichita Falls police. As for Dean, she began her career in August 1989 and retired March 31, 2021. Her service includes 11 years working crimes involving juveniles.

Dean testified that she did not get permission from now retired Justice of the Peace Janice R. Sons to examine Wilder's body. She and another officer wore gloves while looking at Wilder.

Dean testifies that she was assisting lead detective Chad Nelson, who was investigating his first child death. Nelson was somewhat looking to her, as the more experienced child-death investigator, for guidance.

She looked inside the child's mouth but didn't note any injuries in her report, so she didn't find any. Dean also didn't find any fabric or threads inside his mouth or fingermarks or bruising to the front part of his face.

She agreed that she saw bruising elsewhere that looked like typical toddler stuff.

When Dean returned to help serve the search warrant Oct. 22, 2018, Staley and his attorney Bruce Harris were there. She was aware that the warrant was served 11 days after the child's death and that Staley had signed a consent to search the preceding Oct. 11.

Dean and Nelson went to observe the autopsy on Oct. 12, 2018, at the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences at Dallas, and Dr. Stephen M. Hastings, medical examiner, told them he had not determined a cause of death at that time.

According to the final autopsy report, the manner of death remained undetermined, but autopsy findings were "concerning for a homicidal death caused by someone smothering him with a pillow.

In addition, the scene information was considered "irregular and highly suspicious of a homicidal death, according to the Jan. 24, 2019, autopsy report from SWIFS. And findings were suggestive of an asphyxial cause of death.

Wichita Falls police investigate the Oct. 11, 2018, death of Wilder McDaniel as shown in this file photo.

11:15 a.m. Wednesday, March 1: WFPD Sgt. Danny Wiggins takes the witness stand.

Wiggins responded to the scene the morning of Oct. 11, 2018, at Staley's home. David Taylor, Amber McDaniel's stepfather and "Pawpaw" to Wilder, comes to the home. Taylor is not allowed into the home.

"He was devastated," Wiggins, one of the supervisors on scene, said.

He testified that from the scene, he believed police were dealing with a child homicide instead of a natural death.

Staley's attorney, Bruce Harris, told Wiggins later that Staley would not be providing an interview to the police.

Wiggins and other officers went to serve a search warrant at Staley's home Oct. 22, 2018. Eventually, Staley appeared holding a cell phone that police seized.

He would not give officers the passcode to the cell phone.

Defense attorney Terri Moore begins cross examining Wiggins.

He testifies that he was the supervisor of detectives there.

Wiggins tells the jury that Staley was sitting in the police station waiting when his attorney, Bruce Harris, showed up and told Wiggins that Staley was not going to give a formal interview to police.

Moore dives into questioning about the warrant served Oct. 22, 2018. Police saw a trailer to move stuff when they went to Staley's home that day.

"Y'all had 11 days to get that warrant," Moore said.

Staley had signed a consent to search Oct. 11, 2018, so police could have taken anything they wanted then, Moore said.

Wiggins agrees.

He is dismissed from the stand at 11:40 a.m. Shortly after, Senior District Judge Everett Young dismisses the jury for lunch until 1 p.m.

The use of cell phones and cameras are not allowed in the courtroom for Staley's trial.

10:53 a.m. Wednesday, March 1: The judge gave the jury a break, and it turns out Nelson is not dismissed after all.

The defense had the chance to look some information up regarding when Amber went to bed.

The defense attorney asks Nelson a couple of more questions, and Daniel seems satisfied he has shown Amber McDaniel, Wilder's mom, went to bed around 10:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Nelson's testimony is finally over.

Amber Campisi

Amber Campisi takes the witness stand. She is the aunt of Staley's daughter with her sister, Tara Campisi. Amber and Tara Campisi both say they work at the family business, Campisi's Restaurants, on their Facebook accounts.

She testifies about electronic messages exchanged with Staley on Oct. 10 and Oct. 11 of 2018.

The messages were via text and Snapchat.

"I have a secret. Please, let me tell you," Staley messaged her at 11:20 p.m. Oct. 10, 2018 . "I can't hold it in. Call me, please."

On Oct. 11, 2018, she texted him back to say, Sorry, I was sleeping. Staley let her know that her sister and her new boyfriend were expecting a child, Amber C. testified.

"I'm in shock," Amber C. messaged back.

There's a joke about whether the baby will have "scary eyes" like the father.

"LMAO," Staley messages her at 11:09 a.m. on Oct 11, 2018.

Amber C. testifies that they were joking about her sister being pregnant. She believes Snapchat messages go away.

James Staley far right, is shown here in 89th District Court with defense attorneys Terri Moore, far left, and Mark G. Daniel, middle, on Tuesday, May 10, 2022.

9:30 am. Wednesday, March 1: WFPD Detective Chad Nelson starts his day on the witness stand again after his four hours of testimony Tuesday in James Irven Staley III's murder trial in connection with the killing of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018.

Defense attorney Mark G. Daniel is grilling Nelson, taking up where he left off Tuesday.

Daniel said, Did Amber McDaniel, Wilder's mother, make any reference to being "blitzed," drunk or passed out the evening before she woke up and discovered her son dead the next morning?

Nelson said Amber didn't say she was intoxicated. There was a reference to her drinking over a bottle of wine and a glass of liquor.

More:'No James': First day of testimony highlights Wilder's feelings toward Staley

Daniel wants to know about Amber posting and reacting to social media even though she had said she went to bed at 9 p.m. to 9:30 Oct. 10, 2018  according to the defense and didn't wake up until about 9:15 a.m. the next day.

"Do people generally post on the internet in their sleep?" Daniel asks the detective while he is looking for information to respond to a question the defense attorney already posed.

Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie objects to Daniel asking too many questions at once, winning Nelson a reprieve.

After consulting his paperwork, Nelson said he didn't find any reference to Amber posting on social media.

Daniel wants to know how Nelson followed up on information from Jason Odom, no relation to Amber, that he heard her during a phone call to Staley from 12:25 a.m. to 12:33 a.m. the morning of Oct. 11, 2018.

The defense attorney points out this is conflicting information with the timeline from Amber, formerly Amber Odom, about her activities.

"I did not contact her after my conversation with Jason Odom. I did not," Nelson said.

He said the last time he talked to Amber was in January 2019.

Daniel finishes his cross examination, and the DA begins additional questions, apparently designed to disprove any points the defense attorney might have made during the detective's testimony.

Gillespie asks Nelson if he has a photographic memory, to which the detective says no.

Nelson testifies that it's been about four years since his interviews with Amber.

He reads from a transcript of his Oct. 11, 2018, interview with Amber, who told him she didn't know what time she went to bed. She didn't have her phone.

During his Oct. 12, 2018, interview with Amber, Nelson asked her again when she went to sleep, and she again said she didn't know, according to the transcript of the interview he reads from.

Gillespie's next line of questioning seeks to refute the defense teams' contention that Amber's tone changed regarding whether Staley might have killed her child.

Nelson said Amber was shocked when he told her blood had been found in the crib Oct. 11. During the next day's interview, she began to believe Staley did kill Wilder.

"I wish he would have killed me, not my baby," Amber told Nelson at a later time.

Daniel objects to this, and the judge sustains it.

Gillespie has Nelson look at a report written by WFPD Sgt. Charlie Eipper so the detective can testify about whether there is a reference to Staley crying.

John Gillespie swears in as District Attorney during the Oath of Office Ceremony at the Wichita County Courthouse on Sunday, January 1, 2023.

Nelson said there is no reference to Staley crying at the scene in the report.

This tracks back to Daniel's efforts Tuesday to try to show that Nelson was in error about when Staley cried. An EMT testified earlier in the trial that he did not appear affected or concerned by Wilder's death. Others have noted a lack of response from him.

The defense followed up with questions that led to the witness agreeing that people react differently in grief.

Gillespie passes the witness, and Daniel starts questioning him again.

The defense attorney has Nelson hunting for part of an interview transcript to find a time frame for how long she swam before going to bed.

Daniel contends Amber told the detective she swam 25 minutes and then went to bed.

Nelson testifies that he can't find that information in the transcript.

The detective is allowed to step down from the witness stand at 10:33 a.m., but he was not released from the rule not to talk about the case.

5 p.m. Tuesday: With the jury gone, DA Gillespie brings up that part of text messages in evidence in the trial have been redacted to take out sexual relationship references.

The defense requested those redactions before the text messages were presented to the jury.

The trial is over for the day.

4 p.m. Tuesday: Detective Chad Nelson has been on the stand about three hours when a defense attorney gets a shot at cross examination.

Daniel questions him about meetings concerning the Wilder murder case with the DA's Office and the infant death questionnaire from the day of 2-year-old Wilder's death.

Nelson testifies that he interviewed both Amber and Staley for the same questionnaire.

Senior District Judge Everett Young sits on the bench in 89th District Court during a change of venue hearing for the James Irven Staley III murder case Tuesday, May 10, 2022.

Daniel asked him, "I don't mean to ask this in a confrontational manner," but Amber, "bless her heart," was attired in a T-shirt and underwear but was not wearing pants during Nelson's initial interview of her.

According to a prosecutor's opening argument Monday, Amber discovered Wilder dead just after she woke up the morning of the child's death.

Nelson said he has no recollection of that. He also didn't recall if an officer had told him there was blood on the rail of Wilder's crib at Staley's house.

Daniel produced the officer's report saying blood was on the rail of the crib.

Nelson said the report eventually became part of his documentation for the case as lead detective.

Daniel asked Nelson if officers meet with the DA before filing their reports.

"They don't come and make sure this is what the DA wants to put in the report?" Daniel said.

Nelson said no, they don't.

The detective testified that he was assigned to the Wilder homicide case for about a year and a half. He now administers sex offender registration for the WFPD.

Mark G. Daniel

Nelson told the jury he observed the autopsy of Wilder's body. When he spoke of it to Amber later, he told her the medical examiner had handled her child with compassion.

Daniel asked him if he had heard anything about Wichita County switching from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office to the Southwest Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas because the Wilder autopsy findings were undetermined.

Nelson said no, he didn't know where autopsies for Wichita County were done now, and he hadn't heard about SWIFS.

The cross examination became heated on Daniel's part with him telling the detective at one point that he could "dodge" a particular question about Staley if Nelson wanted to.

The issue had to do with Staley crying or, as some have said, not appearing particularly affected by Wilder's death.

The defense attorney had Nelson read from another officer's report that said Staley was crying and dry heaving.

Daniel is seeking to tear holes in Nelson's previous testimony about Staley not giving a full, videotaped interview to police.

Wichita Falls attorney Bruce Harris advised Staley not to do the interview, Daniel said.

Nelson's glasses are off for a bit, and he is sipping from a water bottle as Daniel continues his full-on assault on the detective's testimony and even whether he did his job right in the Wilder investigation.

The defense attorney is all but leaving teeth marks in the air while Nelson works to hold his own on the stand.

"You're the lead detective?" Daniel said.

Until May 11, Nelson said. The detective said he needs to look through a long report to respond to one of Daniel's questions.

"You can't tell me the items taken out of that crib?" Daniel said, referring to Wilder's crib at Staley's home.

The judge recesses the trial for the jury just as Nelson is either finishing his fourth hour on the stand or about to. It is 4:58 p.m.

3:05 p.m. Lead detective Chad Nelson continues his testimony after the break, saying he interviewed Amber's mother and her sister in late October 2018.

Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie does not question Nelson about those interviews.

He also sent Staley's phone and his Mac Mini, and Amber's phone to Southwestern Institute of Forensic Sciences' crime lab in Dallas, Nelson testified.

The detective testifies that he also interviewed Staley's sister and mother. During his interview of Nancy Staley, James Staley's mom, the defendant calls her many times.

Nancy answers the phone, "Hello, James."

Nelson testifies he can hear James telling her to, "Stop talking to us. Hang up the phone. Call his attorney."

Gillespie presents various evidence in its packaging, such as buccal swabs used to collect DNA for testing from inside a person's cheeks, that Nelson confirms SWIFS analyzed in the organization's crime lab.

The bespectacled detective is a 19-year veteran of the Wichita Falls Police Department.

Nelson testifies that a warrant was executed by law enforcement authorities in Okmulgee, Okla., where Staley was living at the time to collect a DNA sample with a buccal swab. The sample was collected in March 2019 at the Okmulgee Police Department.

In May 2020, the murder of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018, hit a temporary roadblock.

Nelson testified that the killing was classified as a cold case, pending the processing of electronic devices the WFPD collected for it. He was off the case as of May 11, 2020. In addition, the WFPD was waiting for a report from an expert, too.

Resources to forensically analyze the devices were limited because of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to delays in getting evidence processed and back to agencies, Nelson testified.

The state has three attorneys for the Staley trial: DA Gillespie, Special Prosecutor Lisa Tanner and Special Prosecutor Eric Nickols. Tanner and Nickols were brought on board specifically for the Staley trial.

Fort Worth defense attorneys Terri Moore and Mark G. Daniels sit at the defense table with Staley in a chair to their right.

Testimony is taking place before Senior District Judge Everett Young. He is the fourth judge assigned to the murder case. Three other judges had recused themselves by the time Young came to the case in the summer of 2021.

2:00 p.m.: WFPD Detective Chad Nelson is testifying about interviewing Amber McDaniel, then Amber Odom, about two hours after the discovery of Wilder's body.

Amber McDaniel reacts after the Wichita County District Attorney and Wichita Falls Police Department announced the arrest of James Staley as shown in this Oct. 8, 2020, file photo.

The prosecution shows a video clip of Nelson's interview with Amber. She breaks down into sobs and heartbroken screams.

He mentions to her during the interview that there was blood in the crib.

Nelson, lead detective in the WFPD investigation, said she responded: "Was there blood? Did James do something?"

Nelson told jurors that he sought to be sensitive to Amber's emotional state. She told him she had a photo to send him. Someone called her phone, located it and it was given to her.

She later sent Nelson a photo of her son with signs of injury that has been attributed to Staley in allegations of injury to a child, the detective testified.

Neither Staley nor an attorney for him have ever reached out to offer to provide a full interview to police, Nelson testified. The detective later interviewed Bradley Prigmore, Staley's friend, about a text message thread in which the defendant wrote disparagingly of Wilder.

On Oct. 12, Nelson learned Amber wanted to speak to him again to show him messages between her and Staley. He interviewed her again in the WFPD and asked her to screenshot and send him the messages.

In addition in Plano, Nelson interviewed Tara Campisi, mother of Staley's then 4-year-old daughter.

Nelson testified that Everett Baxter Jr., who taught him in a criminology course, was brought on board in early 2019 as an expert for the case because a latent print and suspected blood was found on the pillowcase for Wilder's pillow.

He learned the pillowcase material was delicate, and the WFPD would only have one shot at getting certain evidence.

Nelson learned the print would be good for excluding one person in the household. He worked with another expert to find out what would be needed for further analysis. Further impressions or prints were needed from Amber, who signed a consent form for them in October 2019.

Attorney Bruce Harris contacted Nelson after Wilder's death in October 2018 to ask if Staley could remove the crib from his house, the detective told the jury. Nelson said no.

A search warrant was supposed to be served on Staley's home in the 2000 block of Irving Place, Nelson told the jury. Information was received that resulted in the WFPD speeding up serving the search warrant.

Wichita Falls police investigate the Oct. 11, 2018, death of Wilder McDaniel.

The judge did not allow whatever the new information was to be heard by the jury upon a hearsay objection from defense attorney Mark G. Daniel.

Upon arrival at Staley's house, Nelson was concerned when he saw a trailer to move stuff there, he testified.

The judge gave the jury a short break at about 2:45 p.m.

1:15 p.m.: The prosecution calls WFPD detective Chad Nelson to the stand after the jury returns from the lunch recess.

Nelson was the lead detective who responded to Staley's home the day of Wilder's death Oct. 11, 2018.

Nelson testified that he heard the kind of agonized screaming rarely heard as he went up to the Staley house. Amber -- then with the last name Odom -- was sitting on a white couch in the formal living room inside, screaming and cuddling her deceased child, who was wrapped in a blanket.

A police officer already at the scene told Nelson where Staley was, Nelson told the jury. Staley is in a closet sitting on the floor in a fetal position with his hands wrapped around his knees and his head bowed.

"I was wondering why he was there and not with his girlfriend," Nelson testified.

Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie stands outside the courtroom in Fort Worth Monday, Feb. 27, 2023, where the James Staley murder trial in connection with the death of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel is taking place.

The closet had a desk and computer in it, and photographs show it appears to be equipped like an office.

On the way to Staley, Nelson passed the bedroom where Wilder was found deceased and noticed a small stain on the floor there.

Nelson had a child death questionnaire used by the WFPD used for any type of child death investigated, he told the jury. He didn't think Amber was in an emotional place to be able to respond to the questionnaire.

Nelson said he saw a pocketknife in the closet. Staley was cooperative during the limited interview the detective recorded on his iPhone.

Texas is a one-party consent state, allowing a conversation to be recorded if one party consents to it.

Nelson felt despair when he later realized he couldn't retrieve the report from his phone, he told jurors. So he made a report on the interview.

Jason Wilder McDaniel is shown here with his father, Bubba McDaniel.

Staley told the detective that Amber put Wilder to bed between 9 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Oct. 10, 2018. Amber and Staley went swimming and drank multiple alcoholic beverages.

Staley told Nelson he fell asleep on a couch in the living room between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. Oct. 11, 2018. He didn't know when Amber went to bed, but he stayed up eating ice cream sandwiches and chips and salsa because he was not ready to go to sleep yet.

Staley told the detective that he has a hard time going to sleep because of the mood stabilizers he takes. Nelson testified that at first Staley said he checked on Wilder, but later said he didn't check on the little boy.

The detective asked Staley about drugs anyone in the household is taking, and he said he was taking Adderal, Xanax and Lexapro.

Staley was awoken that morning by Amber's screaming, Nelson testified. Staley signed a consent-to-search form voluntarily.

Defense attorney Mark G. Daniel asked Nelson about the consent-to-search from and if it allows police to search "every nook and cranny."

Nelson confirmed that it did and, at the request of Wichita County District Attorney John Gillespie, reads the form aloud to the jury.

Staley asked, "What criminal proceeding?" when Nelson read that phrase from the form, the detective testified. He told the defendant that every death investigation is a criminal investigation until otherwise determined.

"For the first time, I saw him cry," Nelson told the jury.

11:38 a.m. Tuesday: Murder defendant James Irven Staley III's childhood friend just took the stand to testify against him for the prosecution.

Bradley Carson Prigmore, once a high school and college tennis standout, told jurors that Staley texted him and others in a group text a video of Wilder and a message that he thinks the child is "a [gay slur]."

Staley sent the video and texts at some point before Wilder's death. The video shows Wilder running while appearing to be upset. He is running behind Amber.

"Kid needs an ass-whooping and a daddy," Prigmore said, reading a message from Staley in the group text.

More:'No James': First day of testimony highlights Wilder's feelings toward Staley

Staley texted that the child belongs to a "chick" he's been dating. He indicated by text that he thought Wilder was coddled and needs to grow up.

James Irven Staley III leaves court in Fort Worth after the first day of testimony in his murder trial in connection with the death of 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniel on Oct. 11, 2018.

Prigmore told jurors that when he heard about Wilder's death, he provided the messages and video to someone to give to Amber. He later provided the same information to police.

About Staley, Prigmore testified, "I believe him to be manipulative."

He told the jury that Staley has a dark sense of humor, but the messages and video went beyond that. So he turned them over to someone.

A defense attorney questioned how concerned he was since he did not immediately provide the video and texts to police upon receiving them.

Prigmore testified that no, he did not give them to police right away.

Prigmore pleaded guilty to injury to a child about a year ago and is serving 10 years of deferred adjudication probation as part of a plea bargain. If he successfully serves his probation, Prigmore will avoid a conviction on his record.

Testimony is to resume at 1 p.m. Tuesday.

9:30 a.m. Tuesday: An evidence technician for the Wichita Falls Police Department continues testifying about the extensive forensic evidence she collected for the case.

For instance, she collected impressions of every surface of the hands of Wilder's mother, Amber McDaniel, as well as her DNA, which were supplied without a warrant.

The same material was collected from James Irven Staley III, who is accused of murdering Wilder. But a warrant or warrants were required.

Lisa Tanner, one of the prosecutors, shows Wilder's crib that was in Staley's Wichita Falls home in the Country Club area. The white crib was dragged out so that the jury can view it.

More:UPDATED: Wilder's mother charged with child endangerment, evidence tampering

The 2-year-old boy's body was found on the floor outside of the crib by Amber on the morning of Oct. 11, 2018, according to Tanner's opening statement.

Tanner put photos of the white crib sitting in the bedroom in Staley's home on a screen for the jury to view.

The tech testifies that it was important to get a photo of the crib so she could show the scene of the child's death accurately as possible.

She told jurors that there was no blood visible on the railings of the crib. The evidence tech also made sure to capture on camera a stain on the floor, and she collected a king-sized pillow from the crib.

The technician, who has 17 years of experience, holds up the pillow and says it is marked from later testing.

5:30 p.m. Monday: It was an emotional day in court for 2-year-old Jason Wilder McDaniels family.

One of Wilders grandparents was the first witness in the murder trial for James Irven Staley III in connection with Wilders death Oct. 11, 2018.

He testified that Wilders death destroyed his family.

He broke down into tears when telling the jury the last thing Wilder ever said to him the day before the child died: No James, Pawpaw. No James house.

Wilders mother, Amber McDaniel, woke up Oct. 11, 2018, and found her son dead in a bedroom at Staleys house, according to a prosecutors opening statements.

A defense attorney later contended that Wilder also said a phrase similar to, No James, while speaking of a friend of his mother and a girlfriend of his father.

Amber and Wilders father, Robert "Bubba" McDaniel Jr., were not together at the time of the childs death. She was seeing Staley, and she and Wilder were staying there when he died.

At the end of the day in court, jurors viewed photos of the dead child taken by an evidence technician who works for Wichita Falls police.

One of the childs family members wept, and another shielded her eyes from the graphic photos.

Testimony will continue at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

12:30 p.m. Monday: The defense and prosecution made opening statements in the trial Monday, and Staley entered a not guilty plea before the jury.

Jason Wilder McDaniel

James Irven Staley III sat quietly during the proceedings Monday, listening as a prosecutor described the horror of the allegations against him.

This defendant smothered the life out of that sweet little boy, Lisa Tanner, one of the prosecutors, told the jury.

Tanner read jurors electronic messages Staley wrote about Wilder, such as, Scumbags and [off color term] need to be culled, and hes both.

Tanner said Staley referred to Wilder with a racial slur in those messages, too.

Youll see how he felt about Wilder McDaniel, Tanner said.

Defense attorney Mark G. Daniel told the jury that prosecutors shopped around for expert opinions in the case to support their theory that Staley suffocated Wilder.

Daniel called into question the validity of some experts and their opinions.

As for Staley, Daniel said he has a dark sense of humor and a foul mouth.

James does not have very good judgment and says inappropriate things, Daniel said.

The judge recessed the trial for lunch until 1:30 pm Monday.

Check back with www.timesrecordnews.com for more coverage of this trial.

Trish Choate, enterprise watchdog reporter for the Times Record News, covers education, courts, breaking news and more. Contact her with news tips at tchoate@gannett.com. Her Twitter handle is @Trishapedia.

This article originally appeared on Wichita Falls Times Record News: Staley trial
Ten people had to be rescued from the Caloosahatchee River in Southwest Florida after their 37-foot boat struck a bridge support and began sinking, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

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The 10 people rescued were adults, FWC reports. Their identities were not released.

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The cause of the collision remains under investigation, FWC says.

The Cape Coral Bridge carries four lanes of traffic and stands just under 18 feet over the Caloosahatche, a tidal river where the saltwater moves either upstream or downstream depending on the tide, Guidesly.com reports. The river averages just over 14 feet in depth and is home to bull sharks, the site says.

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A special judge Monday revoked the bond of former Stone County Circuit Clerk Jeffrey ONeal because he failed to meet with attorneys to prepare his defense or show up at pre-trial hearings.

Special Judge Richard McKenzie issued the ruling after hearing from ONeal  dressed in an orange jail jumpsuit  appeal to the judge to consider allowing him to bond out of the Stone County jail pending trial on felony embezzlement charges.

His attorney, Damian Holcomb, said he spoke to ONeal after his arrest for failure to appear in court in October just one month prior to his scheduled trial

Holcomb said his client apologized and said he was scared and would not let that happen again.

ONeal apologized for his actions.

I have been for several years, and my doctors can verify, suffering from depression, ONeal said in court Monday. I went to Pine Grove (Behavioral Health) after I got arrested and stayed for over a month.

ONeal said the day he missed court in October, he was at work at Star Chevrolet and trying to make money for his family.

He claimed he didnt realize he had court that day, though he also admitted his failure to stay in touch with his attorney, pick up documentation, or attend meetings with him for his defense at trial.

A judge will not allow Ex-Stone County Circuit Clerk Jeffrey ONeal to bond out of jail in his embezzlement case after he missed court and was jailed.

Trying to avoid reality in embezzlement case

ONeal, as Holcomb pointed out and ONeal verified, has been scared since his arrest.

He was just avoiding the reality, so to speak, and he was scared, Holcomb explained.

In his plea to be released pending trial, ONeal said he had been married to his wife for 43 years, has five children and six grandchildren, and he and his extended family have lived in Stone County for decades.

Assistant District Attorney Matthew Burrell pointed out at the hearing in October that the ex-clerks attorney told the judge he wouldnt meet them to pick up items he needed to prepare for his trial. ONeal missed that court date, which resulted in his arrest.

In addition, Burrell cited a Sun Herald report at the time of his arrest in October, during which ONeal eventually admitted it was his fault he missed the earlier hearing.

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Ex-MS Circuit Clerk arrested again after defying court orders in public corruption case

In a Sun Herald interview, ONeal said it was likely his fault he had ended up in the situation in October, placing blame again on depression and adding that he didnt follow through with things like meeting with his attorney.

But, Im not running or hiding from nobody, he said in the October interview. If I were trying to run, I wouldnt be sitting here trying to make a living.

In the October interview, ONeal admitted that he had called his attorneys office regarding his case just before being handcuffed for missing court.

Then, I called and didnt go, he said in October. I had some appointments with people for work, and that (meeting with his attorney) should have been more important than selling cars and making a living.

In addition, Burrell said the state has already had to delay the trial because of ONeals actions, including missing meetings with his own attorney.

The judge took just seconds to issue his ruling, revoking ONeals bond pending trial, now tentatively set for the May court term.

Before serving as Stone County Circuit Clerk, ONeal had served nearly three full terms as Stone County Justice Court judge.

Theft of public money

In the public corruption case, ONeal is accused between Jan. 1, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2018, of using an unspecified amount of public money he collected as a clerk for his own use.

As part of those allegations, ONeal is accused between Jan. 1, 2016, and Dec. 13, 2018, of embezzling restitution payments offenders made to the clerks office and then spending the money on personal expenses.

In other instances between Nov. 1, 2017, and Dec. 31, 2018, the charging documents say that ONeal, as the clerk, took in election-related payments to the clerks office and converted the money to his own use.

Prior issues before indictment

ONeal first came under scrutiny in 2019 after he failed to file annual financial reports that state law mandates from Chancery and Circuit clerks.

The clerk receives some of their pay from fees their offices generate, but to receive the money, they must show in their financial reports the income and expenses for each year to justify the fees paid to them.

For three years ending in 2018, ONeal failed to turn in financial reports, and another judge later found him in civil contempt.

If convicted of all charges in the public corruption case, ONeal could go to prison for up to 70 years.
Robyn Phelps/Insider

Florida's legislature recently restricted which books can be taught in classrooms.

At the same time, school administrators in Texas banned hundreds of books about race and sexuality.

Polling says books bans are popular with most GOP respondents, but it could backfire in 2024.

State GOP leaders have enacted laws or pushed for banning children from accessing certain books in school classrooms and libraries, and polling shows banning books is popular among Republicans. But the issue could come back to haunt the GOP in the 2024 general election, with book bans remain unpopular with the general electorate.

According to a recent survey from YouGov, which polled 1,000 adult American citizens and had a standard deviation of 3.5%, the majority of Republican respondents  58%  said that there's a time and place for public school classrooms or school libraries to ban books or novels.

The survey comes months after Florida's Republican-led legislature passed three high-profile laws in 2022, leading some public school classrooms to temporarily shutter their libraries as a select few media specialists have been tasked with reviewing tens of thousands of books to ensure they're age-appropriate.

And in Texas, school administrators in at least 20 school districts banned more than 800 books, the vast majority of which pertain to sexuality or race, with many of the bans arising after former state Rep. Matt Krause sent an inquiry to each school district to see if they had copies of the books in question.

Independents don't like book bans. Democrats despise them.

And while most Republicans polled were in favor of banning books, their Democratic and Independent counterparts were not  nearly half of all Democrats polled by YouGov were against banning books from school libraries for any reason.

In its polling, YouGov also surveyed to see which topics people thought should be banned from classrooms. While there were five topics a majority of Republican respondents said should be banned, there wasn't a single topic in the survey that a majority of Independents or Democrats thought should be restricted.

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Winning elections often, in part, comes down to swaying enough Independent voters, who appear to be split on the topic. When asked if there's ever a time when a book or novel should be banned from public school classrooms or school libraries, 40% of Independents answered "yes," 34% said "no," and just over a quarter were unsure.

As an electoral play, banning books is a risky strategy

Choosing to restrict students' access to certain books, as some Republican-led legislatures and school districts have done, is a calculated choice by GOP leaders to appeal to their bases.

According to YouGov polling, 67% of respondents who voted for President Donald Trump in 2020 said they approved of banning books. It would make sense, then, for potential 2024 Republican presidential hopefuls  like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis  to latch onto this issue, as he has.

"In Florida, we will not let the far-left woke agenda take over our schools and workplaces," DeSantis said in a press release after signing Florida House Bill 7. "There is no place for indoctrination or discrimination in Florida."

Taking such a strong, controversial stance may very well help candidates court large swathes of Republicans trying to separate themselves from the pack in a primary election. But it has high potential to backfire come the general election when stray Independent and Democratic voters must also be swayed.

High-ranking Democrats have already begun to seize upon the wave of book restrictions as a wedge issue to cleave off the elements of the GOP who do not back book bans and see them as an obvious violation of First Amendment rights.

Rep. Jamie Raskin was among a group of Democrats who introduced a resolution in the 117th Congress condemning book bans, highlighting their consequences, and "urging recognition of the illegitimate tactics being used to ban books in K12 classrooms, universities, prisons, and libraries."

President Joe Biden aligned himself against the practice in April 2022 in a speech at the National and State Teachers of the Year award ceremony.

"Today, there are too many politicians trying to score political points, trying to ban books  even math books," Biden said. "Did you ever think when you were teaching, you'd be worrying about book burning and banning books all because it doesn't fit someone's political agenda?"

Candidates overreaching during a primary to pander to their base and forcing themselves into an untenable position for the general election is one of the oldest stories in the book. Perhaps the GOP would have realized that  had they not banned it.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Fifteen residents, including two children, are displaced after a massive fire at a Roxbury triple-decker Sunday night.

A heavy fire engulfed all three floors of the building on Quincy Street. As many as 100 Boston firefighters descended on the triple-decker to extinguish the roaring flames.

Heavy Fire on all 3 floor a 3rd alarm has been ordered. pic.twitter.com/qswPtCOpAq  Boston Fire Dept. (@BostonFire) February 27, 2023

The flames leaped to a neighboring duplex before the fire department reported that the fire was knocked down just after 9:00 p.m.

Firefighters were able to get the flames under control in less than an hour despite combatting low-hanging electrical wires and icy sidewalks.

The close proximity of the buildings and the high volume of fire led to the fire quickly spreading to the adjacent building. The heavy fire has been knocked down. pic.twitter.com/QDFeUogBNb  Boston Fire Dept. (@BostonFire) February 27, 2023

One firefighter injured their shoulder during the effort.

Boston Fire officials at the scene said it was too early to speculate on the cause of the fire and that they were unsure of where it even began in the building.

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.

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City Spotlight: Boston



The startup economy has grown and shifted since the turn of the century, and universities  stocked with a never-ending supply of smart, ambitious young people  have increasingly taken part. Boston has always had a robust university-to-startup pipeline, but the last decade has supercharged it, as well as student aspirations to found the next unicorn, change the world or do both at the same time.

Institutions are increasingly embracing this tendency as both inevitable and prestigious. Harvard and MIT loom large over the rest, and their immense resources tend to allow them to experiment with new methods and approaches, such as MIT's The Engine and Harvard Innovation Labs. Other schools and organizations are not far behind, and the revamped Boston environment is decidedly collaborative.

Attend the TechCrunch City Spotlight: Boston event on February 27, 2023.

Register for the free virtual event here.

But the last few years have been tumultuous and transformative in both education and business. And in the more immediate past, layoffs and a capital crunch suggest, if not a bubble about to burst, at least one with an alarming wobble. How have the changes wrought by the pandemic and stuttering economy affected Boston's unique ecosystem? Here's what leaders of some major Boston outfits had to say about it.

Embracing entrepreneurship

"We've seen an extraordinary rise of entrepreneurship-focused programs," said Cait Brumme, CEO of nonprofit startup community MassChallenge. "Tufts, Brandeis, Boston [University], UMass, all these universities now have entrepreneurship programs, incubators, on campus accelerators that are often included in the curriculum."

Some of that has been just in the last few years. In 2019, Harvard Innovation Labs was tracking 93 concurrent ventures at the school.

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"We're at 673 now," said executive director Matt Segneri. "There's been a significant increase in students interested in this work; business, law, design, we've seen a representative pie of all of those. Edtech, climate, digital health and biotech, and enterprise have also seen a big uptick."

Segneri also described crossover work between domains, with consumer-facing rather than therapeutic applications.

Cait Brumme of MassChallenge, left, and Harvard Innovation Labs' Matt Segneri. Image Credits: MassChallenge/Harvard Innovation Labs

Pillar VC principal and co-founder of Petri Tony Kulesa echoed that, saying, "we've seen significant exploration of fields outside of therapeutics, bioengineering broadly applied. We are seeing an explosion of entrepreneurs applying bioengineering technology to public health, climate biotech, food, agriculture, and sustainability."

The shift to remote work and learning has had unpredictable aspects across nearly every industry and segment of society. In the case of student entrepreneurship it seems to have supercharged the community, says Subaita Rahman, a student and entrepreneur herself who has participated in startup scenes in Boston, Toronto and beyond.

"I really think the pandemic increased and accelerated young people getting in earlier, because everything went remote," explained Rahman, who is currently spending her gap year working at Boston's Pillar VC. "That really changed things because you can find that environment anywhere you go. There's also hacker houses popping up everywhere you go, and founders wanting to give back to their communities. Knowledge is being democratized, it's all out there after years of people trying and failing, in tech and bio and crypto. It's all just unfolding on the internet."

Segneri said that this trend is noticeable at Harvard, where entrepreneurship is becoming a more common skill for students to want to cultivate.

"There are more folks coming into these programs who already have entrepreneurial experience  there are college freshmen who already have startup experience," he said. "There are more people who are orienting to their degree program with entrepreneur experience, and we're trying to meet people where they are."

Subaita Rahman and Tony Kulesa of Pillar Venture Capital. Image Credits: Pillar

But the trend reaches beyond the student body: Kulesa described increased interest across the board  a migration, even, especially compared to the relatively insular academic community of just a decade ago.

"The most prominent change is the level of interest among academics  both grad students and faculty  in startups, with many even leaving academia to start and run companies. For example, consider these faculty that left academia to start companies: Daphne Koller of insitro, Andy Beck of PathAI, Sri Kosuri of Octant," he wrote in an email. "This year for the first time, ~50% of graduating PhDs want to enter industry rather than remaining in academia."

Learning and doing

In the undergrad world, it's not just about learning Business Management 101, though. As Brumme points out, entrepreneurship involves more than that.

"It's building in the notion of entrepreneurship as a professional skill: not just the founder as entrepreneur, but all of us as entrepreneurs in our own organizations," she said.

"The education mission is essential," Segneri said, and commercial success isn't always the outcome or even goal. "For people just dabbling in this work, what they're learning is not just how to build a company  they're learning hypothesis testing, learning by doing. Applying what they're learning in coursework to entrepreneurial work is a way to take that project-based learning into an impact space."

A side effect of integrating startup lessons into classes is that these skills don't need to be addressed remedially at the moment someone decides they'd like to start a company.

"And as more institutions engage in that early stage, it has allowed us to reduce our emphasis on classic curriculum and increase our emphasis on having a strong network," said Brumme.

Segneri described the network side of things as "turning entrepreneurship from a solo sport into a rich community of founders." Rahman seemed to concur, while also noting that the community reaches between institutions as well as within them.

"All these great universities are so close to each other and they collaborate so much  that's the key to why Boston is in such a good place," she said. "There are great people everywhere, not just your alma mater. I found value speaking with people my age, who were more like me, even if they were in different places. It's always nice to speak with people with wildly different perspectives."

She also found it a bit funny that, as universities have been working to recreate the tech startup world, "tech has been trying to recreate university, in a way, with hacker houses and stuff  they're basically dorms, but more curated." Clearly the collaborative atmosphere of idealistic, early-stage founders is a valuable resource.

Finding the right partner

In fact, it can be valuable enough that one perceives a risk of exploitation. Students are, of course, coming to university to learn, and that needs to be balanced with the siren song of startup millions.

"It reminds me a bit of paid sponsorship for athletes," mused Brumme. "On one hand, you could say that allowing students access to resources to grow their businesses before graduating provides them value and runway, but does it detract from the core purposes of going to school?"

Photos from MassChallenge's various events. Image Credits: MassChallenge

As young and inexperienced founders, they are also vulnerable to mistakes like trading away too much equity or succumbing to investor pressure. That's the exception rather than the rule, but one it pays to be aware of.

"No one is insulated from this current environment, but we think the Boston seed and pre-seed system has held up pretty well. We've seen experiments from venture firms doing scout programs. Flybridge launched a student-first fund this year focused on Harvard. We saw that with Dorm Room Fund and First Round Capital," Brumme continued. "Startups would say it's really hard to raise funding still, and we work on getting them access to non-dilutive options. VC is a very powerful partner for the right moment in time, but it is not the right mechanism or option for all founders, especially early ones; 25-30 percent of the companies we back intend to bootstrap as long as they can."

"There are a bunch of new funding mechanisms coming online," said Kulesa, naming Convergent Research, Arc Institute, Fast Grants and Homeworld as organizations changing research funding models. VC is adapting too; Pillar is working directly with the student-led nonprofit incubator Nucleate to find and fund university spinoffs.

Rahman warned, however, of biting off more than you can chew as a student founder.

"You have to know your own limits. Some people can full-on drop out and make this company, they're the only one who can do it. But you have to realize that you're young and you have to make a lot of mistakes," said Rahman. "And I mean, if you're under 25, your brain isn't even fully developed yet! It's not just about age either, it's any first-time founder."

Kulesa recommended that any first-time founders do some real research before accepting investment.

"The best I can recommend is to be educated," he said. "We put tons of resources online that include how to negotiate a term sheet and a term sheet grader, and there is a plethora of stuff out there from others as well. That being said, I think trust and shared vision/values is the most important thing. We always offer to buy common stock in rounds that we lead for this reason -- we believe if we have the same economics as founders it leads to trust and alignment."

Segneri was careful to clarify that although HIL does promote the companies going through it, they are in service to the students, not investors or any other interested parties.

"We will do demo days, so we are in that sense an intermediary, escalating certain student pitches to venture firms," he said. "But what we center in all of it is the best interests of these students. We don't typically have corporate partners. We're largely supporting students launching or building their own thing."

While everyone agreed that more resources and support are a good thing for student founders, Rahman had the most practical idea for improving the ecosystem.

"I think microgrants would be super helpful," she said. "Getting money to travel to places for conferences, to take the chance to do an internship. Not everyone is able to afford San Francisco rents. Even a thousand or two thousand can change someone's life."

"It's hard, to balance your ambitions with being young, and just being a college kid. But I think you can do both," she concluded. "It can be quite difficult to find people who are as ambitious and curious, who are dropping out and exploring things  it can be isolating and lonely. You might fail, you might fail badly  and that's OK. That's the best expectation to have. We can get caught up in the glamour, so just learn from the experience."
By Rodrigo Viga Gaier and Gabriel Araujo

RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Two Iranian warships docked in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday after Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's government granted permission despite pressure from the United States to bar them.

The IRIS Makran and IRIS Dena warships both arrived on Sunday morning, Rio's port authority said in a statement.

Reuters earlier this month reported that Brazil had bowed to U.S. pressure and declined Iran's request for the vessels to dock in Rio in late January, in a gesture from Lula as he flew to Washington to meet U.S. President Joe Biden.

However, with Lula's trip over, the ships have been allowed to dock. Vice Admiral Carlos Eduardo Horta Arentz, the deputy chief of Brazil's Naval Staff, gave his approval for the ships to dock in Rio between Feb. 26 and March 4, according to a Feb. 23 notice in the official gazette.

The U.S. Embassy in Brasilia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Brazilian Navy authorizes a foreign vessel to dock in Brazil, but only after authorization from the foreign ministry, which takes into account the requesting embassy's petition and logistics.

The presence of the Iranian warships on Brazilian shores continues to irk the United States as it seeks to build closer ties with Lula's administration, which came into office on Jan. 1.

In a Feb. 15 press conference, U.S. Ambassador Elizabeth Bagley urged Brazil not to allow the ships to dock.

"In the past, those ships facilitated illegal trade and terrorist activities, and have also been sanctioned by the United States. Brazil is a sovereign nation, but we firmly believe those ships should not dock anywhere," she said.

Diplomacy with Iran was one of the highlights of Lula's attempts to bolster Brazil's international standing during his previous presidential terms. He traveled to Tehran to meet then-President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2010 as he sought to broker a nuclear deal between Iran and the United States.

(Reporting by Rodrigo Viga Gaier; Additional reporting and writing by Gabriel Araujo; editing by Grant McCool)
(Bloomberg) -- Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro  who has spent the last two months in the US  is scheduled to speak at this weeks Conservative Political Action Conference as he faces investigations back home after riots by supporters who refused to accept his election defeat.

Most Read from Bloomberg

An admirer of former US President Donald Trump, Bolsonaro, 67, is expected to appear Saturday at CPAC, a four-day gathering of conservative leaders set to begin Wednesday in suburban Washington, the group said. Trump is Saturdays marque speaker.

Many call him the Donald Trump of South America, CPAC said of the former Brazilian president in a Feb. 17 tweet. Here at #CPAC, we call him a friend.

Trump endorsed Bolsonaros unsuccessful reelection bid, and the former Brazilian president spoke earlier this month at an event organized by Turning Point USA at Trumps Doral Miami resort.

Bolsonaro  who lost last falls election to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva  has said he intends to remain active in his countrys politics, even though hes been in the US since just before the end of his term.

Read more: Bolsonaro Says He Intends to Return to Brazil in Coming Weeks

Bolsonaro said in a video aired this month that he intends to return to Brazil as he faces multiple investigations, including over whether he had any connection to the Jan. 8 right-wing insurrection in the Brazilian capital that drew comparisons to the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol by Trumps supporters.

He came to the US on a diplomatic passport following his loss to Lula before applying for a six-month tourist visa. Hes been vacationing in Florida since Dec. 30, two days before his term ended.

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President Joe Biden hosted Lula at the White House earlier this month in what he characterized as a show of support for Brazilian democracy.

Bolsonaros son, Eduardo, a Brazilian congressman, is also speaking at CPAC on Saturday.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
ATALAIA DO NORTE, Brazil (AP)  A high-level delegation of the Brazilian government traveled on Monday to the remote corner of the Amazon rainforest where British journalist Dom Phillips and Indigenous expert Bruno Pereira were murdered last year, to demonstrate just how much Brazil's new government differs from that of former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro.

The group was led by Sonia Guajajara, Brazils first minister of Indigenous Peoples. She was joined by the widows of both slain men. The trip involved several flights including a seaplane to arrive in Atalaia do Norte, an impoverished city by the banks of Javari River.

We are here to reestablish the presence of the Brazilian government in the Javari Valley region, Guajajara told a mostly Indigenous crowd gathered in a small, stifling auditorium. It is no longer possible for Indigenous people to be cowed and afraid within their own territory.

During his four-year term which ended in January, Bolsonaro attempted to open Indigenous territories to mining, large-scale agriculture, and logging. His promises, combined with the defanging of environmental law enforcement, led to a surge of invasions into Indigenous territories. Monday marked the first time that Pereiras widow, Beatriz Matos, has returned to the place where her husband was murdered. She was accompanied by Alessandra Sampaio, Phillips widow. At several moments, both were moved to tears, receiving warm embraces, songs of tribute, handmade gifts, and speeches of gratitude from Indigenous people present.

Matos was recently named head of the Department for Territorial Protection and Isolated and Newly Contacted Peoples at the Indigenous ministry. She is an anthropologist who did her fieldwork in the region. Her husband had a similar post until, frustrated with the Bolsonaro government, he took leave to consult for the Javari Valley association of Indigenous people.

Addressing the crowd, Matos said her family and that of Dom Phillips would be forever grateful for the commitment local people showed to finding the men, and also the respect, the care, the tributes, and the spiritual guidance.

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I will work for the government and will carry Javari along with me. The department will be always open to you," she told the crowd.

The Javari Valley Indigenous Territory is roughly the size of Portugal and home to 6,300 people from seven different ethnic groups, some of whom have had no contact with the outside world. For years, the area has been targeted by illegal fishermen and poachers slipping past government outposts to extract riches from the protected waters and forest.

With environmental and Indigenous agencies woefully underfunded and understaffed during the administration of former President Jair Bolsonaro, the ransacking grew worse. Pereira took leave to help local Indigenous people catalog and report illegal hunting and fishing on their own. In so doing, he ran afoul of the local illegal fishing racket. Phillips, who was writing a book on the Amazon, was accompanying him on an expedition last June when they were killed.

Their disappearance prompted an international outcry and a massive search. Once their bodies were found, chopped and burned, pressure mounted on authorities to find the killers.

Suspects in the murders are in custody in federal prisons. There is no date set for the trial. Brazils federal police said last month that a local fish trader, Ruben Dario da Silva Villar, conceived the crime and they plan to indict him. Villar provided the ammunition to kill the pair, made phone calls to the confessed killer before and after the crime, and paid his lawyer, police said. He denies wrongdoing.

Crime still plagues the border region. On February 23, armed gunmen attacked a federal boat belonging to the Indigenous health agency near the closest city; they made off with the craft and thousands of liters of fuel. They left two crew members bound and blindfolded in the woods.

On, Monday, the new president of Brazils federal environmental agency, Rodrigo Agostinho, promised that the government of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who took office January 1, will reinforce its presence in the region. We will work hard to impose order in this region. One cant tolerate wrongdoing anymore.

In an interview Monday, Agostinho said the priority will be to investigate and prosecute those who benefit from illegal mining instead of the miners.

During the event, Indigenous leaders read a long letter containing several demands, ranging from more and better-equipped checkpoints along the vast territory to better healthcare.

===

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.
Rishi Sunak - Anadolu Agency

A fresh Brexit deal to address the bitter dispute over the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol has finally been agreed.

Mr Sunak on Monday confirmed that MPs will be given a binding vote on the new deal after fears that Dominic Raab, the Deputy Prime Minister, had failed to guarantee they would.

Speaking on Sunday morning, the Justice Secretary would not commit specifically to a vote, saying only that MPs will have the opportunity to express themselves on the deal.

However, on Monday, the prime minister told reporters: "Yes, Parliament will have a vote at the appropriate time and that vote will be respected."

He continued: "But as I said earlier I think it is important that we give everyone the time and the space they need to consider the detail of the framework that we have announced today because it is comprehensive in nature and that will take time for people to digest."

On Tuesday, Mr Sunak hinted that he will press ahead with the deal even if the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) rejects it. The deal is not expected to be put to a vote in the House of Commons this week, The Telegraph understands.

Here The Telegraph takes a look when the vote may happen, and how a trial in the Commons is likely to play out for Mr Sunak.

Did there have to be a vote?

There is no legal requirement for the Government to call a vote on Mr Sunaks Brexit deal unless the UK and EU have agreed a new treaty, which is extremely unlikely. However, he confirmed on Monday that the deal would be put to a vote.

It was thought that the agreement could be written into law using secondary legislation that does not require a vote of the whole House.

Parliament had already given ministers the power to do this in existing primary legislation, such as the EU Withdrawal Act 2018.

Most secondary legislation made by ministers does not have to be approved by Parliament, but the most significant pieces are subject to affirmative procedure, which means a committee in each House has to meet and consider it.

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However the committees do not have the power to change the legislation and - unlike primary legislation - it is vanishingly rare for it to be objected to.

Could ministers call a vote anyway?

In any case, the Government has confirmed it will still give MPs a chance to have their say in the Commons.

It could achieve this by scheduling a statement to the House, followed at some point by an opportunity for a debate on an unamendable motion framed in neutral terms.

MPs could have a vote at the end of the debate, but it would not carry any legal weight.

The Government could commit to treat this as a politically binding motion - for example, by saying it would not go ahead with Mr Sunaks deal if MPs voted down the motion.

But while ministers would certainly face the wrath of the Commons if they reneged on such a pledge, there would be nothing legally preventing them from doing so.

Inviting MPs to express their views without giving them any actual power to reject the proposals would doubtless prove controversial, especially among Eurosceptics.

Tory backbencher Peter Bone, a prominent Brexiteer, told The Telegraph: They may technically not need to call a vote because of the law, but they absolutely have to call a vote for democratic reasons and to get moral authority over it.

Is there actually a chance the deal could be voted down?

Regardless of whether the Government manages to get the ERG and Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) on board, there is little chance of Mr Sunaks deal being defeated in the Commons.

This is because Labour has signalled that it would be prepared to back the agreement, giving Number 10 more than enough support to see it through.

However, this is one safety net Mr Sunak would rather avoid.

Labour coming to the Tories rescue because of a rebellion within their own ranks would be terrible optics for the party which campaigned to get Brexit done.

Can Brexiteers force a vote if the Government doesn't call one?

Technically, hardline Brexiteers could still find a way to have their say in the Commons if ministers deny them a vote on the new deal.

They could, for example, attach an amendment to a tangential piece of legislation, such as something related to Brexit or Northern Ireland.

Or they could demand an emergency debate from the Speaker, who would have the power to decide whether to grant it.

Doing so would allow them to get their point across, but it would be a purely political gesture.
(Bloomberg) -- UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak struck a deal with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on new trading arrangements for Northern Ireland, potentially ending a stand-off thats poisoned relations with the European Union since Brexit.

Most Read from Bloomberg

In a press conference, Sunak said the UK and EU were at the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship. Von der Leyen said the extraordinary agreement  known as the Windsor Framework  provides for long-lasting solutions.

Sunak later made a statement to Parliament, where he needs to win the support of pro-Brexit Conservative MPs and Northern Irelands Democratic Unionist Party - some of whom sounded skeptical the agreement could work. Sunak said there will need to be some role for EU law in the region, but stressed that a new mechanism called the Stormont Brake would provide safeguards to businesses operating in Northern Ireland.

Key Developments:

UK and EU Seal Decisive Breakthrough on Northern Ireland

Pound Rises to Session High of $1.2030 After UK, EU Reach Deal

UK document here. European Commission document here.

(All times UK)

Key Points: Fewer Trade Barriers, Brake on EU Laws

Here are some key aspects of the Windsor Framework:

A green- and red-lane customs system

A mechanism for Northern Ireland to limit the impact of amended or revised EU goods laws

Removal of existing requirements on trade from Northern Ireland to Great Britain, as well as on pets and parcels

UK decisions on value added tax and excise changes could apply in Northern Ireland as well as Great Britain

Medicines approved by the UK regulator automatically available in Northern Ireland

Story continues

Senior DUP Members Suggest Deal Unacceptable (7:45 p.m.)

Two senior members of the Democratic Unionist Party have hit out against Sunaks deal, a sign that he may not win the partys backing.

Ian Paisley Jr, son of the DUPs founder, told GB News his gut instinct is that the deal isnt going to cut the mustard. The continued influence of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland means that power-sharing does not look like its coming back any time soon, he said.

Sammy Wilson, the DUPs chief whip, criticized the fact that EU law would still apply in Northern Ireland under Sunaks deal. He also questioned how much confidence his party could have that amendments to EU law would in fact be stopped if objections were raised.

Irish PM Varadkar Keen on Improved Ties (7:30 p.m.)

Todays agreement workable and durable solutions for businesses and citizens in Northern Ireland, Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said in a briefing late Monday. If implemented, it will bring stability and certainty to a situation that has been in flux since the decision of the Brexit referendum, almost seven years ago.

He also looked forward to the prospect of improved ties with the UK. I look forward to discussing with Prime Minister Sunak how we can take relations between us post-Brexit to a new and more positive level.

https://t.co/Alk3y2qhB0 pic.twitter.com/abxaGmQqy8

 Bloomberg UK (@BloombergUK) February 27, 2023

Varadkar said it was important to give unionists in Northern Ireland time to sit down and examine the detail of the agreement.

Key Unionist Leader Says Concerns Remain (7:20 p.m.)

Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of Northern Irelands Democratic Unionist Party, said he welcomed Sunaks progress but wasnt yet prepared to endorse the deal.

There remain key issues of concern, Donaldson said in the House of Commons. He said his party would study the deal closely before passing judgement. He sought an assurance from Sunak that Northern Irelands place within the UKs internal market would be protected.

Sunak said he respected the DUPs need to examine the deal.

Scottish National Party Fairly Supportive (7:10 p.m.)

Stephen Flynn, who leads the Scottish National Party in Westminster and its 45 MPs, said he is fairly supportive of Sunaks new deal with the EU. He said it will help protect the Good Friday Agreement  though he complained that Northern Ireland has privileged access to the EUs single market, while Scotland does not.

May Urges Backing for New Deal (7:05 pm)

Theresa May, who tried and failed to get her own Brexit deal past Parliament when she was prime minister, congratulated the government on securing a new agreement, and urged MPs to back it.

The best move now is for everybody across this house to support this settlement, May told the chamber. That is what is in the best interests of all the people of Northern Ireland.

Labour Will Vote for Sunaks Brexit Deal (7:02 p.m.)

Labour leader Keir Starmer said his party will support Sunaks new Brexit deal over Northern Ireland.

We will not snipe, we will not seek to play political games, Starmer said in the House of Commons. When the prime minister puts this deal forward for a vote, Labour will support it and vote for it.

Starmer urged other opposition parties to back the deal and put country before party.

Sunak: Deal Ends Automatic Ratchet of EU Law (7:00 p.m.)

Commending the new agreement to the House of Commons, Sunak conceded that for as long as businesses of Northern Ireland continue to have access to the EU single market, there will be some role for EU law.

The mission for negotiators, he said, was to establish what is the absolute minimum necessary to avoid a hard border. The so-called Stormont Brake introduced in the new deal allows Northern Irelands assembly to use a cross-community vote to reject EU regulations.

Sunak insisted that Northern Irelands place in the United Kingdons internal market was secure, and that the brake was introduced by rewriting the original treaty. It puts beyond all doubt that we have now taken back control, he added.

Sunak Thanks Prominent Brexit-Backer (6:55 p.m.)

Sunak thanked Bill Cash, a prominent Brexiteer, for his help in devising the Stormont Brake, the mechanism by which Northern Irelands lawmakers can veto alterations to EU law as applied in the region.

https://t.co/Alk3y2qhB0 pic.twitter.com/feOMqOUNn5

 Bloomberg UK (@BloombergUK) February 27, 2023

Cash sits on the so-called Star Chamber of legal advisers that backbench Conservative Brexiteers in the European Research Group are preparing to use to help judge whether the new deal is acceptable to them.

Businesses Keen on Stability in N. Ireland (6:29 p.m.)

Northern Irish business groups welcomed the apparent stability the deal offers, but stressed there may be future issues to work through.

Reaching an agreement is an important step in securing the stability and certainty businesses have been seeking, the Northern Ireland Business Working group, which represents 14 industry bodies, said in a statement. We would encourage the UK and EU to continue with a constructive, solutions-focused approach as businesses adjust to the new arrangements.

Stormont Veto or Stormont Brake? (5:36 p.m.)

Sunak described a key element of the deal as a veto over whether amended EU laws would apply to Northern Ireland. EU officials described a more subtle mechanism  a measure of last resort that would only apply when the bloc amends or replaces existing laws that would have a significant and persistent impact on everyday lives of people in Northern Ireland.

The so-called Stormont Brake would require 30 Northern Ireland lawmakers from at least two parties to ask to trigger it. The UK government would then have to decide to use the mechanism, prompting efforts by London and Brussels to resolve the dispute. If London triggers the brake, the EU would be empowered to take unspecified measures to protect its internal market, officials said.

Finally, if the EU disagreed with the UK on whether the conditions were met to trigger the mechanism, a dispute resolution is available. EU officials said the the European Court of Justice wouldnt be involved in this process but would continue to be the sole arbiter of EU law.

Von Der Leyen Meets King Charles III (5:09 p.m.)

Sinn Fein Urges DUP to Back Accord (5:08 p.m.)

Leaders of Irish nationalist party Sinn Fein gave the deal their support, saying it now puts the onus the DUP to work with other Northern Ireland parties to get power-sharing up and running again.

We now have a solution on the table and I encourage the DUP to join with the rest of the parties and actually make politics work here, Michelle ONeill, Sinn Feins vice president, said to reporters in Belfast. The partys president Mary Lou McDonald also endorsed the agreement.

The all-island party will meet this evening to carefully assess the details of the deal, according to McDonalds statement.

Key N. Ireland Party Plans to Study Deal (4:59 p.m.)

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson issued a statement welcoming the deal and thanking Sunak for his engagement and efforts in negotiating a deal with the EU.

In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognizing there remain key issues of concern, Donaldson said.

Ultimately the party will now assess all these proposed outcomes and arrangements against our seven tests, outlined in our 2022 Assembly Election Manifesto, to determine whether what has been published meet our tests and whether it respects and restores Northern Irelands place within the United Kingdom.

Irish PM Welcomes UK-EU Agreement (4:28 p.m.)

Leo Varadkar, Irelands prime minister, endorsed the agreement reached by British and EU negotiators.

Todays announcement of the positive outcome in negotiations on the Protocol between the EU and the UK is most welcome. It is the result of a long and difficult process to find joint solutions.

Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said he believed unionists in Northern Ireland will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns and urged political leaders in Northern Ireland to act quickly to restore the devolved government at Stormont.

Deal Protects N. Ireland, Von Der Leyen Says: (3:45 p.m.)

Von Der Leyen spoke after Sunak, saying that the new agreement provides for long-lasting solutions for Northern Ireland. The deal puts in place strong safeguards that will allow goods to move more freely across the Irish Sea.

The establishment of red and green lanes for goods, as well as real-time data-sharing, which will enable Northern Ireland supermarkets to stock the same food as in Great Britain.

She hailed the negotiating teams and said: The result is extraordinary.

Sunak Announces Windsor Framework (3:33 p.m)

The British prime minister gave the first details of the new Brexit trade agreement in remarks to open a join press conference with Von Der Leyen. He said the negotiations had led to amendments to the legal text of the Northern Ireland Protocol, a move that would safeguard Northern Irelands place in the union.

Burdensome bureaucracy will be scrapped, Sunak said, announcing what he called the Windsor Framework, an agreement he said would remove any sense of a border in the Irish Sea.

Pound Rises 0.7% to Session-High (2:45 p.m.)

Sterling rose to a session-high after news of the announcement. The pound increased by as much as 0.7% to $1.2030, making it the second-best performing major currency Monday.

EU and UK Agree Deal Over N. Ireland Trade (2:29 p.m.)

The UK prime minister and the leader of the European Commission quickly wrapped up a deal after beginning talks close to Windsor Castle, where Von Der Leyen will meet King Charles III later on Monday.

Broadcasters aired pictures of them shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries before talks began. The two will hold a press conference at 3:30 p.m. UK time.

Unionists Need to Take Time: (1:55 p.m.)

Donaldson, leader of Northern Irelands Democratic Unionist Party, said he hasnt seen the text of any deal. Speaking to the BBC before flying to London, he said he hadnt seen the text of an agreement yet.

Once weve seen the legal text well come to a view on that, Donaldson said. Im neither positive nor negative. I think that we need to take time to look at the deal, whats available, and how does that match our seven tests, he added.

Sunak Wins Key Backing of Pro-Brexit MP (1 p.m.)

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker, a former chair of the European Research Group of Brexiteer Tory MPs, appears to have given his backing to the imminent deal.

Speaking to reporters at Downing Street, Baker told Sky News that the PM is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.

While a minister would typically be expected to support government policy, Baker has been one of the most hardline Brexiteers in parliament in recent years. Bloomberg previously reported he was considering resignation, unhappy at being kept out of the loop on negotiations.

Gibraltar Dispute Continues (12:54 p.m)

Any deal on the Northern Ireland protocol wont solve all border frictions between the EU and the UK  they continue to disagree over the post-Brexit relationship with Gibraltar, which is a very different situation, a senior EU diplomat said.

Talks are ongoing to keep Gibraltar  a UK territory on the southern tip of Spain  in the EUs Schengen area to avoid a hard border. But Madrid wants Spanish agents to control the entry to the European border-free area at Gibraltars port and airport. Last November, Spain made a global proposal to the UK covering the transit of people and goods, workers rights and the fight against money laundering.

Von Der Leyen to Meet King (11:55 a.m.)

Von der Leyen will meet with King Charles III later this afternoon, Sunaks spokesman, Max Blain, told reporters.

Speaking after some Conservatives, including former cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg criticized the idea of the European Commission president meeting the monarch, Blain said its up to the King to decide who he meets. He declined to comment on why the monarch had been given the advice that a meeting should go ahead.

The disclosure comes after people familiar said last week a meeting between von der Leyen and the King had been planned for the weekend before being canceled. That had sparked controversy, with Rees-Mogg telling GB News on Monday such a meeting would be a mistake because the sovereign shouldnt be involved until there is full support for any deal.

Buckingham Palace said in a statement that the King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so.

Von Der Leyen Arrives in UK (11:10 a.m.)

Sunak Seeking to Settle Trickiest Brexit Overhang (10:55 a.m.)

The deal signed by then Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2019 caused various problems for Northern Ireland and its been a simmering source of tension since.

The agreement created an effective trade border within the United Kingdom, requiring goods traveling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland to face various customs checks as if they were heading for the EU. It also kept Northern Ireland following some EU laws.

That riled unionists, who have stymied the formation of Northern Irelands power-sharing government for more than a year in protest against the arrangements. The UK-EU discussions have sought to fix those frictions, while continuing to protect the blocs single market.

Starmer Says Deal Likely to Be an Improvement (10:30 a.m.)

Asked why hes backing a deal he hasnt yet read, Labour Party Leader Keir Starmer said hes completely across the issues and their potential solutions.

Frankly any steps in this direction are going to be an improvement on what we have got, Starmer told reporters after delivering a speech on Monday. I can say with confidence we back the deal. Its not going to be a surprise, its not going to be out of the blue.

N. Ireland Deal Will Spur Growth, Labours Reeves Says (07:32 a.m.)

The opposition Labour Party said a new post-Brexit agreement for Northern Ireland will boost the UK economy and pledged to back the expected deal negotiated by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

This will be beneficial to the economy of the United Kingdom, Labours shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves said on Bloomberg TV on Monday. Were not going to play party politics with this. We will support the government if and when they bring back a deal.

Tory Backbencher Says N. Ireland Needs Say on Laws (7:10 a.m.)

Theresa Villiers, a Brexiteer Conservative backbencher, said Sunaks deal needs to end frictions and paperwork for goods crossing the Irish Sea and also end the situation where people in Northern Ireland are subject to thousands of single market laws over which they have no say and no vote.

We cant tolerate a continuation of Northern Ireland being subject to the full panoply of single market rules, Villiers  a former Northern Ireland secretary  told BBC radio on Monday. Theres going to be significant divergence in the future and that makes it even more important for us to address this problem that we must enable people in Northern Ireland to have a say over the laws that govern them.

Villiers also said its crucial that Sunak gives Parliament a vote over any new deal, adding: I cant conceive of circumstances where something as significant as this can be finally agreed and implemented without MPs voting.

--With assistance from Joe Mayes, Kitty Donaldson, Emily Ashton, Alex Wickham, Richard Bravo, Jorge Valero, Olivia Fletcher and Morwenna Coniam.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Rishi Sunak on Monday hailed a Brexit deal that "takes back control" as he said his new pact solved dozens of the problems that were posed by the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Prime Minister addressed MPs in the Commons after striking a revised agreement with Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President.

Mr Sunak's deal was endorsed by Theresa May, the former prime minister ousted amid her own attempts to achieve a deal with the EU, while there was no sign of his immediate predecessors Boris Johnson or Liz Truss.

It came as the DUP has hailed "significant progress" made in Mr Sunak's deal but stopped short of supporting it at this stage.

08:55 PM

That's all for today...

Thanks for joining us on what has been a remarkable day in Westminster, as Rishi Sunak announced a deal few thought possible with material changes to the text of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Mr Sunak's revised agreement with the European Union, which was confirmed at a press conference with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, was warmly welcomed by many in his own party including Theresa May, the former prime minister.

Rishi Sunak - Chris J Ratcliffe/Pool/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

With Labour having also signalled its support, the Prime Minister has no need to worry that his deal will sail through the Commons.

The challenges he now faces are twofold - impressing the Eurosceptics on his own backbenches, and winning over the DUP, whose support may prove critical if Northern Ireland is to return to power-sharing in the near future.

My colleague Jack Maidment will be back early tomorrow to bring you all the latest.

08:49 PM

'A positive basis to move forward'

In what is turning out to be a marathon session, Rishi Sunak is still fielding questions in the Commons on the Windsor Framework.

The Prime Minister told parliamentarians: "This framework provides a positive basis to move forward, ensures we respect the balance of all communities, and I look forward to working with... all colleagues to ensure that we realise the full potential of what we've achieved today."

Story continues

08:42 PM

Nadine Dorries hits out at Steve Baker... again

Apparently The arch-Brexiteer (Steve Baker) said he had been considering resigning "as late as yesterday"



Isnt considering resigning his permanent state of being given hes done it that often?  Rt Hon Nadine Dorries MP (@NadineDorries) February 27, 2023

08:32 PM

'I dont believe Rishis Northern Ireland bluff'

Rishi Sunak has handled the negotiation of this deal in the same cak-handed way as Theresa May, but even she would not have involved His Majesty the King in such a controversial issue, writes Arlene Foster.

The Whitehall thinking, of course, was that Unionists cannot walk away if the monarch is connected with the deal.



Even the name of the agreement The Windsor Framework is meant to bring comfort to unionists. But the fundamental point is whether, after all the theatrics, the DUPs seven tests have been met.



If the seven tests are not fulfilled there will be no devolution and no 25th anniversary party for the Belfast Agreement. More worrying for me is that devolution for Northern Ireland, which I believe in, will be off the agenda for quite some time.

Read Arlene's full piece here

08:17 PM

Brady backs British bangers' bounceback

The so-called "Windsor Framework" won't be perfect but it looks like a massive step forward, writes Sir Graham Brady.

Green lanes in the Irish Sea will free up most of the trade. VAT, excise and state aid rules will be back under British control. Stormont will have an emergency brake on new regulations.

Meanwhile, there is every sign of a more constructive approach being adopted by the EU, a recognition that Brexit has happened and that we should focus on cooperation between friends rather than obstruction and delay.

What is more, Rishi Sunak has actually achieved something Jim Hacker only claimed to have done. Great British sausages and seed potatoes will be back on shelves in Northern Ireland.

Sir Graham makes the case for Sunak's deal

08:00 PM

Sunak asked: 'Is this a failed process already?'

Eurosceptics in the Commons are continuing to ask Rishi Sunak about the deal. Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Tory leader, said the Stormont Brake "is not quite as defined as it might be" and asked: "Can the EU demand counter-measures if it is deployed?"

Mr Sunak said he was "happy to clarify" it was for the Government to determine whether the threshold had been met and added "it shouldn't be used for trivial reasons".

Ian Paisley, the DUP MP, had "quite rightly indicated that trade is so important to all of our United Kingdom" but noted the agreement puts in place a "grace period" arrangement for the agri-food sector "which will expire in less than a year and a half... Prime Minister, that is utterly useless for our agricultural sector.

Sunak - House of Commons/PA Wire

"That will actually make it more difficult for our foreign business. Our livestock too, if we move it from County Antrim to Ayrshire, we would have to leave our livestock there if it wasn't sold... for at least six months. That had not been addressed.

"If the Prime Minister had moved cattle from Yorkshire to Lancashire and was told it had to stay in Lancashire for six months, he would be not amused by that. Our farmers are not amused in Northern Ireland, it is our single largest trade. Will these issues be fixed or is this a failed process already?"

Mr Sunak insisted he was "supporting our farmers, whether they're in Northern Ireland or indeed Yorkshire", and that the grace period lasted until the end of 2025.

07:51 PM

'A way to move forward together'

Sammy Wilson, the DUP MP for East Antrim, told Rishi Sunak: "Could I remind the Prime Minister that although he talks about 1,700 pages of EU law being removed from Northern Ireland, hundreds of thousands of pages will still remain? Border posts can still be built and the Prime Minister has admitted that future EU laws will apply to Northern Ireland unless... his Government decides not to proceed with law changes for the United Kingdom as a whole, or he vetoes EU proposals in a Joint Committee.

"Can he understand why we don't have confidence in that, and why we still fear that our position within the United Kingdom is not going to be restored by this Agreement?"

Mr Sunak replied: "I think as the honourable gentleman knows well, the border posts are there to deal with checks in the red lane... It's something that was always envisaged. It's right for people trying to smuggle goods into Northern Ireland, that shouldn't happen... I hope he will give this framework the time and consideration it deserves."

Mark Francois, the chairman of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, thanked Mr Sunak for his statement and publishing the White Paper and legal text on the same day.

"He's worked very hard on this, so can he assure me and the whole House that when we go through the red book, or in this case the detailed legal text, we won't find any nasty surprises that would materially undermine the position of Northern Ireland in the United Kingdom?"

Mr Sunak responded: "I believes it meets the objectives that we set out to do. It provides for the free flow of goods within the United Kingdom, it ensures Northern Ireland's place in our union and it safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland. I look forward to engaging with him and his colleagues in the coming days... and I'm confident when he goes through the details he will see this is a good agreement, it is the right agreement for Northern Ireland, for the people of Northern Ireland, and it's a way for our United Kingdom to move forward together."

07:44 PM

'Real dangers' to Stormont Brake, Sunak warned

Stephen Farry, the MP for the Alliance, said there were "some positives" in the Windsor Framework.

"However, for us the key test is the preservation of Northern Ireland's dual market access, and in that regard my party has massive concerns about this potential Stormont Brake.

"So does the Prime Minister understand that there are real dangers that this process could add more instability into the Assembly, and can I stress to him that the petition of concern is controversial given its abuse in the past? And also creates uncertainty regarding single market rules... So will he meet with our party to discuss this in more detail, to clarify what's potentially being proposed?"

Mr Sunak said conversations in recent weeks had been "helpful" - "and of course I can assure him I look forward to talking to him very soon to explain the Windsor Framework in detail".

"And he makes a good point - there are many people, communities, businesses in Northern Ireland that value their access to the European single market, they value rightly not having a hard border on the island of Ireland, and we have strived to protect that in this Agreement whilst ensuring Northern Ireland's place in our union and protecting and safeguarding its sovereignty. I believe our Framework does get that balance right and I look forward to having that conversation with him."

07:38 PM

Sir Bill Cash: The devil, as ever, lies in the detail

Sir Bill Cash said in the papers that had been published this afternoon, "the devil as ever lies in the detail".

"May I seek his assurance that the Government will respond to the democratically correct questions that naturally arise on the substance and procedures that are involved, and particularly on the making of EU laws of the European Court, particularly on the Joint Committee on its procedures, and of course the Stormont Brake - not to mention that the whole context of sovereignty in this entire process under Section 38 of the Withdrawal Agreement Act 2020?

"And would he also be good enough to indicate how long a timeline he's proposing for the questions and answers that will be required, and how long that might take?"

07:35 PM

Boris Johnson will 'study and reflect on' Sunak's deal

Boris Johnson is not in the Commons tonight, but we have some idea of the former prime minister's thinking.

A source close to Mr Johnson said he "continues to study and reflect on the Government's proposals".

07:34 PM

'An enormous step forward'

Brandon Lewis, a former Northern Ireland Secretary, said Rishi Sunak was "absolutely right... I congratulate him and my colleagues on the frontbench for the phenomenal focus that they are putting into ensuring that we can secure a deal that we all I know will hope can restore power-sharing in Stormont.

"Another key area for the citizens of Northern Ireland is access to goods, as he has rightly outlined."

He asked Mr Sunak to confirm that he would help to ease the "administrative burden", to which he replied the Framework was "an enormous step forward".

07:29 PM

Prime Minister: Northern Ireland deserves institutions 'up and running'

Julian Smith, a former chief whip and the Tory MP for Skipton and Ripon, hailed a "critical moment" in ending instability in Northern Ireland.

Hilary Benn, the veteran Labour MP, asked Rishi Sunak if he agreed the EU had "moved a long way in these negotiations... and does he agree that all of us in this House look forward to restoration of power sharing in Northern Ireland?"

Mr Sunak paid tribute to Ursula von der Leyen in the "leadership she has demonstrated in trying to find a way through... She and her team deserve enormous credit.

"The people of Northern Ireland need and deserve their institutions to be up and running."

David Davis, the former Brexit secretary, went on to hail what he said looked like a "spectacular negotiating success".

07:25 PM

We will give Northern Irish parties 'time and space', says Sunak

Simon Hoare, the chairman of the Northern Ireland select committee, kept it brief with a 73-second contribution.

He praised Rishi Sunak and his team for having "strained every sinew... When committed minds do politics seriously, serious and beneficial outcomes can be delivered for the benefit of all in our country.

"Whilst respecting entirely and agreeing with my Right Honourable friend that parties particularly in Northern Ireland need time to study the detail... Northern Ireland business wants, and the good people of Northern Ireland deserve, quick certainty."

Mr Hoare asked Mr Sunak to commit to votes taking place "speedily" in order to ensure peace of mind. The Prime Minister confirmed a vote would take place "at the appropriate time as we give people the time and space to consider the detail".

07:21 PM

'Key issues of concern' remain, warns DUP leader

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson - the leader of the DUP - said his party's judgment in opposing the Protocol "has been vindicated... Undoubtedly, it is now recognised that the Protocol has not worked."

Sir Jeffrey thanked Rishi Sunak and his predecessors for their "work and engagement to date on this issue", but added: "I agree with the Prime Minister that the issue of sovereignty is crucial... Of the 77billion of goods manufactured in Northern Ireland, 65billion of those 77billion are sold within the United Kingdom. The overwhelming majority of what we produce, we sell within our own internal market.

"And I want an assurance from the Prime Minister not just now but in the future that the Government of the United Kingdom will protect Northern Ireland's place within that internal market, and will not allow the application of EU law to put barriers in place to our ability to trade with the rest of our own country."

Mr Sunak returned Sir Jeffrey's thanks for his "constructive engagement", responding: "I believe very strongly that the Windsor Framework does resolve those issues... We will give them the time and space to consider that, and stand ready to answer any questions and provide any clarifications.

"With regards to the objectives that he has set out and others has set out, I believe that the Windsor Framework does ensure the free flow of trade within our United Kingdom internal market, including unfettered access for Northern Ireland producers to the rest of the United Kingdom."

07:06 PM

Theresa May endorses Rishi Sunak's deal

Former prime minister Theresa May said the Northern Ireland Protocol signed in December 2019 "adopted the European Union's preferred proposal of a border down the Irish Sea".

"Can I congratulate my Right Honourable Friend, the Foreign Secretary, the Northern Ireland Secretary and all their teams for all the work they have done to achieve this negotiated settlement, which will make a huge difference."

Rishi Sunak - -/PRU/AFP

Mrs May said the "best move" would be for "all people across this House to support this settlement".

07:04 PM

Sir Keir Starmer confirms Labour will support Windsor Framework

Responding to Rishi Sunak's deal, Sir Keir Starmer confirmed Labour "will support it and vote for it".

Sir Keir said he was "encouraged" by the DUP's statement earlier today, and said the deal "comes with trade-offs".

The Labour leader accused Boris Johnson of "absolute nonsense" about forms and checks, saying his approach "inevitably contributed to the collapse of power-sharing" in Northern Ireland.

"I urge the Prime Minister to be utterly unlike his predecessor - do not pretend the deal is something it is not. Where there are trade-offs to be made, argue the case for them. Treat the concerns of unionists with frank honesty, not bluster.

"This deal is not perfect, but because we recognise the UK agreed to the Protocol and has a duty to make it work... Labour will support the Windsor Framework."

06:57 PM

'Right for Northern Ireland, right for the United Kingdom'

Rishi Sunak wrapped up: "We've achieved free-flowing trade, with a green lane for goods, no burdensome customs bureaucracy, no routine checks on trade, no paperwork whatsoever for Northern Irish goods moving into Great Britain and no border in the Irish Sea.

"We've protected Northern Ireland's place in the European Union... parcel paperwork gone, tax paperwork gone, garden centres now selling the same trees, supermarkets selling the same food and pharmacies selling the same medicines.

Rishi Sunak speaking in the Commons - PRU/AFP/via Getty Images

"And we've safeguarded sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland with the democracy deficit closed, the Vienna convention closed, and with the Stormont Brake we have safeguarded democracy and sovereignty before

"Let us seize the opportunity of this moment, the certainty of an agreement that fixes the problems we face... and offers us at last the freedom to move forward together. That is what the people of Northern Ireland deserve. That is what the Windsor Framework delivers. As a Conservative, a Brexiteer and a Unionist I believe passionately with my head and my heart, this is the right way forward. Right for Northern Ireland, right for the United Kingdom and I commend it to this House."

06:54 PM

Protocol Bill 'was only ever meant to be a last resort'

Rishi Sunak said the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill "was only ever meant to be a last resort".

"As the Government said at the time of introduction, our clear preference remains a negotiated solution.

"We have a new and better option... The Windsor Framework delivers a decisively better outcome than the Bill, insisting what people insisted could not be done."

Mr Sunak added: "Neither do we need the Bill, and nor do we have a credible basis to pursue it. As such, we will no longer proceed with the Bill - and the European Union will no longer proceed with their legal actions against the UK."

06:51 PM

'Stability, certainty, simplicity, affordability and clarity'

The Prime Minister hailed the Stormont Brake as a "powerful safeguard" of the Good Friday Agreement.

Rishi Sunak told the Commons: "The Stormont Brake has been introduced by fundamentally rewriting the treaty... It ends the automatic ratchet of EU law. And if the veto is used, the European courts can never overturn our decision."

Mr Sunak said the Brake "now puts beyond all doubt that we've taken back control".

"From the very start we have listened closely and carefully to views on all sides of this debate. I'm grateful to many members of this House, the communities of Northern Ireland and the voices of business and civil society for putting forward their suggestions.

"We are delivering stability, certainty, simplicity, affordability and clarity as well as strengthened representation for the businesses of Northern Ireland."

Speaking directly to the Unionist community, he said: "I understand and have listened to your concerns, and I would not be standing here today if I did not believe today's agreement did not mark a turning point for the people of Northern Ireland."

06:47 PM

Rishi Sunak: There is 'some role for EU law' in Northern Ireland

Mr Sunak said he can "understand that view" that EU laws have no place in Northern Ireland.

However, he insisted there was "some role for EU law" as long as the people in Northern Ireland supported special access to the single market.

The Prime Minister added today's agreement scrapped some 1,600 pages of Brussels bureaucracy.

06:44 PM

Sunak levels the playing field on medicines

Continuing a triumphant-sounding Commons speech, Rishi Sunak invoked a cancer sufferer in Belfast who would have been unable to access new medicines being developed and sold elsewhere in the UK.

He said the same medicines would now be available in both Northern Ireland and elsewhere in the UK.

"This is a permanent solution that brings peace of mind."

06:41 PM

Rishi Sunak: We have removed the border in the Irish Sea

Rishi Sunak said there would be "no burdensome customs bureaucracy" under the new agreement, reeling off a long lift of changes to red tape.

"We have delivered what the people of Northern Ireland asked for and the Command Paper asked for - we have removed the border in the Irish Sea.

"To preserve the balance of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement, we also need to protect Northern Ireland's place in our union. The Windsor Framework is about making sure that Northern Ireland gets the full benefit of being part of the United Kingdom in every respect. Under the Protocol in too many ways, that simply wasn't the case."

Mr Sunak said the Government had amended the legal text of the treaty so critical VAT and excise duty changes would apply to the entire UK.

06:39 PM

Where's Johnson... or Truss?

As our Associate Editor Christopher Hope notes:

No sign of Boris Johnson or Liz Truss in the Chamber. #Brexit #WindsorAgreement  Christopher Hope (@christopherhope) February 27, 2023

06:38 PM

Sunak hails 'comprehensive' reforms - and 'sausage wars' victory

Rishi Sunak said the new green lane would be open to a "comprehensive range of businesses across the United Kingdom".

"The commitment to establish the green lane is achieved by a legally binding amendment to the treaty itself. This is fundamental, far-reaching change and it permanently removes the border in the Irish Sea."

Mr Sunak noted three-quarters of food in Northern Irish supermarket came from the UK and praised today's agreed changes.

"More fundamentally, we have delivered a form of dual regulation for food... Under the Protocol, retail food products could not be sold in Northern Ireland. Today's agreement completely changes that."

It also marks victory in the so-called "sausage wars", meaning British sausages can now be sold in Northern Ireland.

06:33 PM

'It does what many said could not be done'

Rishi Sunak began by paying tribute to Betty Boothroyd, the first female Speaker who passed away yesterday aged 93, praising her "immeasurable contribution to our democracy".

Mr Sunak told MPs: "After weeks of negotiations today we have made a decisive breakthrough. The Windsor Agreement delivers free-flowing trade throughout the whole of the United Kingdom, it protects Northern Ireland's place in our union and it achieves sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

"It does what many said could not be done - removing thousands of pages of EU law, and making legally-binding changes to the Protocol treaty itself.

"That is the breakthrough we have made, those are the changes we will deliver and now is the time to move forward as one United Kingdom."

Mr Sunak paid tribute "to our European friends for recognising the need for change" and "my predecessors for laying the groundwork for today's agreement" - to much amusement in the chamber.

06:29 PM

The Commons is nice and full for Sunak

Many MPs in the House of Commons this evening are clutching copies of Rishi Sunak's new deal with the European Union.

Chris Heaton-Harris and Steve Baker are among those sat on the frontbench as we await the Prime Minister's arrival.

06:26 PM

No 10 reveals what Rishi Sunak told his (virtual) Cabinet

The Prime Minister began Cabinet by thanking the Northern Ireland and Foreign Secretaries for their hard work in helping negotiate a successful deal.



The Prime Minister said the Government had achieved something very special with the Windsor Framework - smoothly flowing trade, securing Northern Irelands place in the Union and dealing with the democratic deficit thanks to the powerful new mechanism in the form of the Stormont Brake.



He said they had secured what many said was impossible - making legally binding changes to the Protocol Treaty itself.

06:24 PM

The handshake moment

Agreement signed.



Today is about preserving the delicate balance of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and charting a new way forward for the people of Northern Ireland.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 27, 2023

06:23 PM

No need for Protocol, Attorney General tells Cabinet

The Prime Minister's official spokesman has said of this afternoon's Cabinet meeting: "The Attorney General welcomed the agreement, saying it was a permanent solution, which was binding and subject to international law.

"She said the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill was not a permanent solution and would still leave the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice unaffected in international law.

"She added that the legal basis of the Bill - the doctrine of necessity - had now fallen away thanks to the successful negotiation of the agreement."

06:00 PM

Coming up in the Commons

Rishi Sunak will be addressing MPs in around half an hour - you'll be able to watch it at the top of this live blog.

It comes after a meeting of his Cabinet this afternoon, and we are expecting a readout of what was said shortly.

05:48 PM

Tony Blair Institute praises Sunak's 'pragmatism'

The Tony Blair institute has praised Rishi Sunak's "pragmatism" in reaching a revised agreement with the EU.

Anton Spisak, the Institute's Brexit lead who played a major role in 2018 and 2019 negotiations, said the Windsor Framework represented a "substantive set of revisions to how the Northern Ireland Protocol will operate".

"In seeking a negotiated settlement through investing significant political capital with the EU, Rishi Sunak has secured concessions which his predecessors failed to achieve. Sunak deserves credit for showing pragmatism and the EU for demonstrating maximum flexibility."

It came as Lord Howard, the former Tory leader, told BBC Radio 4: "Boris Johnson would have bitten off Michel Barnier's hand to get a deal like this."

05:41 PM

'Necessary changes for Northern Ireland'

Chris Heaton-Harris, the Northern Ireland Secretary, described today's news as a "breakthrough".

"We've achieved a deal that delivers necessary changes for people in Northern Ireland while protecting its place in the Union," Mr Heaton-Harris said.

"It is now for the Northern Irish parties to consider the detail of the Windsor Framework."

05:34 PM

Full story: Rishi Sunak hails 'turning point'

Rishi Sunak hailed a "turning point" in British relations with the European Union after unveiling a Brexit deal that he hopes will secure the backing of Northern Irish unionists.

The Prime Minister said he and the European Commission had made a "decisive breakthrough" on post-Brexit rules for Northern Ireland as he sought the backing of Tory Eurosceptics.

Standing alongside Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, he said the "Windsor framework" finalised with the EU today will deliver smooth-flowing trade and "safeguards sovereignty".

Now Mr Sunak and Mrs Von der Leyen must wait to see whether the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and the European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs support the deal. The ERG will hold a meeting tomorrow.

Daniel Martin, our Deputy Political Editor, has more here

05:30 PM

'This will lead to future beneficial cooperation'

Stephen Hammond, a prominent One Nation Conservative, said he "warmly welcomes" the Windsor Framework.

"I believe this is in the interests of not only Northern Ireland and UK businesses, but in the UK's national interest and will lead to future beneficial cooperation between the UK and the EU," Mr Hammond said.

05:29 PM

Defence minister: 'Looks like Sunak just cracked it'

Some more reaction has streamed in from Rishi Sunak's Government colleagues in the past few minutes.

Andrew Murrison, a defence minister, said: "Looks like Rishi Sunak just cracked it. Hard work, mastery of detail and good old fashioned diplomacy. Now we move on. Rejoice."

Andrew Bowie, a minister at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, tweeted:

05:25 PM

'A win-win solution for all sides'

Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister, said the ERG and the DUP would "read every word" of the Brexit agreement but said he was "earnestly and enthusiastically" hopeful they would support it.

"I do think it's the right thing to do - I think this is a win," Mr Baker said. "And I think it's very important in politics to know when you've had a win-win solution for all sides, bank it, and move forwards.

"And this is a time to bank what is a radical improvement for the people on Northern Ireland and we should bank it and move on. There's always going to be something that some ideologue would condemn. And there are some unionists that are so hardline I think they'd put a moat between the north and the south. But those ladies and gentlemen are never going to be satisfied by anything."

In separate comments to BBC's PM programme, Mr Baker said that while he felt "excluded" from the negotiations, a "noble and good reason for this" meant he now felt "rather sorry" that he was a "bear with a sore head about it".

05:15 PM

New: The paragraph that kills off the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill

As envisaged by the UK Government in June 2022, given the terms of the Windsor Framework and the clear availability of a durable negotiated solution, there would now be no legal justification for enacting the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill.



With the Windsor Framework, implemented as envisaged, the Bill will no longer be the "only way" in which the issues caused by the previous Protocol arrangements can be resolved.



This statement and this assessment is without prejudice to any future situation which may arise, or the UKs rights under international law to protect its interests.

05:14 PM

Pictured: King Charles meets Ursula von der Leyen

King Charles has met with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen following the announcement of a new Brexit deal between the UK and the EU.

The King and Ursula von der Leyen - Aaron Chown/Pool/Getty Images

05:12 PM

'Marginally better than where we've been'

Rishi Sunak's new deal is "very difficult to assess just yet", the eurosceptic Tory MP Craig Mackinlay has said.

Mr Mackinlay insisted he was "keeping my own counsel" on the agreement while it is assessed by the European Research Group's 'star chamber' of legal experts.

"Would the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill actually be better or worse than this deal in front of us? The facts and real detail are completely unknown at the moment," he told The Telegraph.

"I'll be looking at what the DUP make of it, whether the Good Friday Agreement is back to its former glory and status. I can't believe that they've given in on everything and that this is a clear win on the UK Government - game, set and match - so there's a way to go yet and lots to look at.

"It seems marginally better than where they've been in terms of the Protocol. The worry is has Northern Ireland been weaponised by the EU as a means to stop us from proper changes and alteration in our pathway in the future?"

05:07 PM

Steve Baker: Sunak has 'pulled a blinder'

Steve Baker - one of the so-called Brexit 'Spartans' who held out against Theresa May's agreement - said Rishi Sunak had "pulled a blinder" with his new Protocol deal.

Mr Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister, told the BBC he was "delighted" by what Mr Sunak had achieved.

"Where there's a compromise it's because we need to keep that north-south border free of infrastructure. And so insofar as there's compromise it's for that reason.

"So I'm incredibly proud of this achievement, I think the Prime Minister's really pulled a blinder.

"I think it's a fantastic achievement for all parties to this deal - for Ireland, for the EU, for the unionists and for Eurosceptics. So I'm delighted that we can move on to a new chapter."

05:05 PM

Analysis: Relief for Rishi over done deal

Taking just two questions from the British press, Rishi Sunak escaped an interrogation on whether he risked politicising the monarch amid a row over Ursula von der Leyens meeting with the King in Windsor, writes Amy Gibbons, our Political Correspondent.

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen - Dan Kitwood/Pool via Reuters

The Prime Minister will have been relieved to keep the focus on the deal itself as past kings and queens looked on from the towering portraits that lined the walls of the grand function room that hosted the press conference.

The European Commission President will have tea with Charles this afternoon after the leaders struck a crunch deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol.

05:01 PM

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson: 'The DUP will want to study the detail'

Just in from the leader of the DUP:

In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.



The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts. Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required.



Ultimately the party will now assess all these proposed outcomes and arrangements against our seven tests, outlined in our 2022 Assembly Election Manifesto, to determine whether what has been published meet our tests and whether it respects and restores Northern Irelands place within the United Kingdom.

04:58 PM

Sunak not out of the woods just yet

Andrea Leadsom, a staunch Brexiteer, has hailed the "huge progress" made today - with one important caveat.

"It all now depends on whether the communities in Northern Ireland feel it's the right solution," Ms Leadsom wrote on Twitter.

This suggests she will be reserving her judgment until the DUP make their thoughts clear - which could take days.

04:40 PM

Good afternoon

Dominic Penna here, The Telegraph's Political Reporter, guiding you through the rest of today.

Rishi Sunak is expected to address the commons at around 6.30pm after announcing the new and updated Brexit deal.

I'll be bringing you all the latest as the evening unfolds.

04:33 PM

Micheal Martin says deal on protocol 'very welcome'

Micheal Martin, Irelands deputy leader and foreign affairs minister, welcomed the deal struck on the protocol, and said it is a "genuine response" to unionist concerns.

He said: "Todays announcement by European Commission president (Ursula) von der Leyen and UK Prime Minister (Rishi) Sunak that the EU and UK have agreed a new way forward on the protocol is very welcome.

"This new agreement, the Windsor Framework, is the result of genuine engagement, and of the EU and UK working together and listening to the concerns raised by elected representatives, citizens and business in Northern Ireland.

"From the outset, we have always said that the only sustainable outcome is one based on jointly agreed solutions. I heard first-hand the concerns of many unionists. I believe they will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns."

04:23 PM

Jeremy Hunt praises 'decisive breakthrough'

Today @RishiSunak has secured a decisive breakthrough for the people of Northern Ireland  pic.twitter.com/LS6LmsmhuF  Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) February 27, 2023

04:20 PM

Senior Tory MPs respond to new Brexit deal

Reaction to the new Brexit deal is now rolling in.

Tobias Ellwood, the Tory chairman of the Defence Select Committee, tweeted: "Welcome breakthrough. This is good for GB. This is good for NI. Lets support the PM."

And Simon Hoare, the Tory chairman of the Northern Ireland Select Committee, told both sides of the negotiations "thank you and well done".

Here is his tweet:

@RishiSunak and @vonderleyen @JamesCleverly & @MarosSefcovic have demonstrated magnificently what can be achieved when, with mutual respect, understanding, trust and friendship grown ups can do grown politics. As Chairman of @CommonsNIAC I say thank you & well done  Simon Hoare MP (@Simon4NDorset) February 27, 2023

04:01 PM

European Research Group calls meeting for 6pm tomorrow

Christopher Hope, The Telegraph's associate editor, has news on how Brexiteers are reacting to the "Windsor Framework":

The European Research Group of Conservative MPs has called an all-member meeting for 6pm tomorrow night, I can disclose. This means that a lot of the reaction in the House of Commons today might be muted ahead of what will be crunch ERG session tomorrow. The meeting will go a long way to setting out whether Brexiteers are going to sign up to the new Windsor Framework.

03:58 PM

Brexit deal should lead to Horizon Europe breakthrough

Ursula von der Leyen said talks on the UK joining the EU's Horizon Europe scientific innovation and research initiative will start as soon as the new "Windsor Framework" has been implemented.

She said: "This Windsor Framework is good news for scientists and researchers in the European Union and in the UK because of course the moment we have finished this agreement, so it is an agreement in principle, the moment it is implemented I am happy to start immediately right now the work on an association agreement which is the precondition to join Horizon Europe, so good news for all those who are working in research and science."

03:53 PM

Rishi Sunak: MPs will be given binding vote on Brexit deal

Rishi Sunak has confirmed that MPs will be given a binding vote on his new Brexit deal.

He told reporters: "Yes, Parliament will have a vote at the appropriate time and that vote will be respected. But as I said earlier I think it is important that we give everyone the time and the space they need to consider the detail of the framework that we haver announced today because it is comprehensive in nature and that will take time for people to digest.

"But ultimately this isn't necessarily about me, it is not about politicians, it is about the people in Northern Ireland, it is about what is best for them."

03:47 PM

Rishi Sunak hails 'real breakthrough' on Northern Ireland Protocol

Rishi Sunak was asked if his deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol will be viewed as a failure if it does not result in the DUP returning to powersharing at Stormont.

The Prime Minister said: "I think today marks a turning point for Northern Ireland. I have spent a lot of time listening to communities there, businesses there, the unionist community as well, understanding their concerns and I believe that today's framework addresses them."

Mr Sunak said that the relevant political parties "will want to take the time to consider the detail of what we are announcing today".

He added: "I believe that what we have achieved today is a real breakthrough and it is now for the parties to consider that and decide themselves how to take it forward and build a better future for people in Northern Ireland."

03:42 PM

Protocol deal 'allows us to begin a new chapter' - von der Leyen

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, said that today's deal on improving the Northern Ireland Protocol will "allow us to begin a new chapter".

She said the so-called "Windsor Framework" sets out "long-lasting solutions" to post-Brexit border problems.

03:40 PM

Ursula von der Leyen: 'We knew it was not going to be easy'

Ursula von der Leyen said she and Rishi Sunak were today delivering on an "important commitment we made to each other a few months ago" to agree a deal on improving the Northern Ireland Protocol.

She said they had been "honest with each other about the difficulties" and "we knew it was not going to be easy" to reach an agreement.

03:38 PM

PM: UK and EU have taken 'three big steps forward'

Rishi Sunak said he was "standing here today because I believe we have found ways to end the uncertainty and challenge for the people of Northern Ireland".

The Prime Minister said that the UK and the EU had taken "three big steps forward".

The first will ensure the "smooth flow of trade within the United Kingdom".

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen hold a press conference in Windsor - Chris J. Ratcliffe /Bloomberg

The second means the two sides have "protected Northern Ireland's place in the union" and "we have amended the legal text of the protocol" so that duty and VAT decisions apply to the whole of the UK.

The third will "safeguard sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland". He said a new "Stormont brake" would allow the Northern Ireland Assembly to stop changes being made to EU goods rules. Mr Sunak said: "If the brake is pulled, the UK Government will have a veto."

03:33 PM

Rishi Sunak unveils new 'Windsor Framework'

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen have now arrived for their press conference.

The Prime Minister said that he was "pleased to report that we have now made a decisive breakthrough" on the Northern Ireland Protocol.

He said the two sides have "changed the original protocol and are today announcing the new Windsor Framework".

03:24 PM

Business leaders hail new Brexit deal

Dozens of business leaders have signed a joint letter hailing the "welcome pragmatism" of an updated Brexit deal, writes Dominic Penna, The Telegraph's political reporter.

Seventy-eight signatories include Deborah Meaden, the star of Dragon's Den, plus the chairmen of Virgin Group, the International Chambers of Commerce and Cobra Beer.

The statement, coordinated by the Best For Britain campaign group, reads: "This agreement will be of greatest significance to the people of Northern Ireland but its positive impact for businesses large and small, in every corner of the country, and for the UK economy as a whole should not be underestimated.

"For businesses and their customers, struggling in difficult trading conditions, this deal represents welcome pragmatism from all sides and upholds the level playing field with our closest and largest trading partners

"It can and should mark the beginning of a new chapter in UK/EU relations, one built on trust, mutual respect and shared prosperity."

03:22 PM

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen press conference set for 3.30pm

Dozens of journalists have filed into a grand function room at a venue in Windsor ahead of a highly-anticipated press conference with Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, writes Amy Gibbons, The Telegraph's political correspondent.

Two lecterns are positioned under an ornate chandelier, flanked by UK and EU flags.

The leaders are expected to address the nation at 3.30pm.

03:13 PM

Lib Dems: 'The Conservative Government was responsible for this mess in the first place'

Sir Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said it "shouldn't have taken years" for the Conservative Party to fix problems with the Northern Ireland Protocol as he responded to the news of a deal being done.

He said: "We welcome the opportunity to take the time to read this deal, but we hope that it will be a step forward - bringing much-needed certainty and stability for Northern Irelands economy and society.

"The Conservative Government was responsible for this mess in the first place. It shouldnt have taken years for them to get to this point.

"Rather than do the responsible thing, it looks like Conservative MPs would prefer to fight amongst themselves. Its like were stuck in Groundhog Day. Its time for them to put country before party."

02:59 PM

Rishi Sunak tells EU negotiators 'it hasnt always been easy'

Rishi Sunak told Ursula von der Leyen and her team of negotiators that it "hasn't always been easy" on the road to securing a deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol between the UK and the EU.

The European Union published a short clip of the start of the meeting between the two teams this afternoon.

Mr Sunak told the EU team: "Thank you for the incredible work. Its been a fantastic effort, I know it hasnt always been easy at times but we have got through it and I think weve just shown a very positive and constructive attitude, understood each other."

02:50 PM

Striking of protocol deal an opportunity to 'move forwards' - Labour

Peter Kyle, Labour's shadow Northern Ireland secretary, said the striking of a Brexit deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol should provide a moment to "move forwards".

He said: "Today is an opportunity for Northern Ireland, the UK and EU to move forwards. Attention should be on the contents of any protocol deal.

"Parties and communities in Northern Ireland will need some time to assess the deal. Labour stands ready to act in all Northern Irelands interests."

02:28 PM

UK and EU agree deal on Northern Ireland Protocol

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen have agreed a new Brexit deal to improve the Northern Ireland Protocol.

A senior Government source told the BBC: "An agreement has been reached. The deal is done."

02:27 PM

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson rubbishes reports DUP decided to back deal

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has rubbished reports that the DUP is "expected to accept the protocol deal" (see the post below at 13.52).

He said the DUP will "take our time to consider the detail and measure a deal against our seven tests".

02:21 PM

What happens next on Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal?

After Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen have finished their working lunch in Windsor, the Prime Minister is expected to brief his Cabinet on the final Brexit deal.

The Prime Minister will be dialling into the meeting remotely.

Once the Cabinet meeting has finished that is when we are expecting a press conference with Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen.

02:01 PM

Sir David Lidington urges Tory Brexit rebels to 'get behind the Prime Minister'

Sir David Lidington, a former Cabinet minister, has warned potential Tory Brexit rebels that voters do not favour parties that "squabble" among themselves, writes Amy Gibbons, The Telegraph's political correspondent.

The ex-Conservative MP for Aylesbury called on those with doubts over Rishi Sunak's new deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol to "get behind" the Prime Minister, in the "national interest".

Speaking at the launch of the Conservative European Forum's inquiry into the UK-EU trade deal, he said: "I hope very much that Conservative MPs will both look at the content of the deal, at what the deal or the protocol would enable us to do in resetting the relationship with the European Union at a time when democratic Europe faces existential security and economic challenges, and get behind the Prime Minister.

"And if they want to sort of fret about electoral impact, I would just say that I remember 1997. The electorate does not like parties that squabble incessantly amongst themselves, that appear to be occupied with themselves rather than with the interests of the men and women who are on the electoral register, and whom they are elected to represent and fight for.

"So I think put the national interest first, as I believe the Prime Minister is doing, and give him the support that I think he will deserve to have."

01:52 PM

DUP leader: 'I'm neither positive nor negative'

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the leader of the DUP, appears to be keeping his cards close to his chest on what he thinks about Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal.

Here's a tweet from BBC political correspondent Jayne McCormack:

DUP leader @J_Donaldson_MP heading for his flight to London keeping cards close to his chest on a deal: Im neither positive nor negative - we need to take time to look at the deal, whats available and how it matches our seven tests  Jayne McCormack (@BBCJayneMcC) February 27, 2023

It came after The Irish News reported that the DUP is "expected to accept the protocol deal", citing a source "with knowledge of the DUP's thinking".

01:47 PM

Reader poll: Should the King meet with Ursula von der Leyen today?

01:42 PM

Ursula von der Leyen arrives for talks in Windsor

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has now arrived at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor Park, Berkshire.

She was greeted by Rishi Sunak and the pair are now holding a working lunch as they finalise the new Brexit deal between the UK and the EU.

Rishi Sunak welcomes Ursula von der Leyen to the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor this afternoon - Dan Kitwood/Reuters

01:34 PM

Rishi Sunak pays tribute to 'remarkable woman' Betty Boothroyd

I am saddened to hear of the death of Betty Boothroyd. A remarkable woman who dedicated her life to politics, she was an inspiration as the first woman Speaker.



The passion, wit & sense of fairness she brought to politics will not be forgotten. My thoughts go out to her family.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 27, 2023

01:32 PM

Sir Keir Starmer pays tribute to Betty Boothroyd

Sir Keir Starmer has paid tribute to Betty Boothroyd following her death at the age of 93.

The Labour leader said in a statement: "Betty Boothroyd was an incredible and inspirational woman. As Speaker, she was at the forefront of a generation that smashed the glass ceiling for female politicians. She made the role her own, with a wit and style that will never be replicated.

"Betty was a dedicated and devoted public servant who will be dearly missed by all who knew her. My thoughts - and the thoughts of the Labour Party - are with all her many friends and family."

01:08 PM

Parliament lowers flags to half-mast after death of Betty Boothroyd

Following the sad news that the Rt Hon. Betty Boothroyd has passed away, we have lowered the flags to half-mast in New Palace Yard.



She leaves behind a powerful legacy, and she will be missed. pic.twitter.com/f4hEx1bq1J  Sir Lindsay Hoyle (@CommonsSpeaker) February 27, 2023

01:04 PM

Rishi Sunak arrives at Windsor venue for talks with EU chief

Rishi Sunak has now arrived at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor Park, Berkshire, for talks with Ursula von der Leyen on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister arrived in an entourage of five cars accompanied by Metropolitan Police officers on motorcycles.

Rishi Sunak arrives at the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel in Englefield Green, Windsor, Berkshire - Dan Kitwood/PA

01:02 PM

Ursula von der Leyen on whether a deal has been done: 'We'll see'

Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, has been seen leaving Europe House in Westminster.

When asked if a Brexit deal has been done, she told reporters: "We'll see."

Nicholas Watt, political editor at BBC Newsnight, has the tweet:

I just asked @vonderleyen as she left Europe House in Westminster whether she has a deal. She told me: Well see. But the European Commission president looked very happy and was laughing as she posed for photos with builders outside pic.twitter.com/5rfCDkIPMU  Nicholas Watt (@nicholaswatt) February 27, 2023

12:49 PM

Greg Hands: Starmer has 'no vision for our country'

Greg Hands, the chairman of the Conservative Party, has now responded to Sir Keir Starmer's speech on the economy this morning (see the post below at 10.15).

Mr Hands said Labour's record on the economy "speaks for itself  soaring unemployment, spiralling debt and no money left".

He said: "Starmer has no vision for our country, instead he is offering the usual Labour ideas: unfunded spending, endless borrowing and higher debt. He will take Britain backwards and put our long-term economic security at risk."

12:31 PM

No vote this week on Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal

Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol is not expected to be put to a vote in the House of Commons this week, The Telegraph understands.

The Prime Minister is expected to delay the point at which the House of Commons has its say on the agreement until MPs have had sufficient time to pore over the legal text of the deal.

That could mean a debate and likely a vote next week.

12:28 PM

Jacob Rees-Mogg: 'Constitutionally unwise' for von der Leyen to meet the King

Jacob Rees-Mogg has said it is "constitutionally unwise" for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen at the same time as the EU and UK are finalising a Brexit deal.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: "It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

"It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy."

12:17 PM

Steve Baker signals backing for Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal

Steve Baker, a Northern Ireland minister, has just left 10 Downing Street and told reporters that Rishi Sunak is close to securing a "really fantastic result" on Brexit with the EU.

He said: "I can only say this, that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved."

There had been suggestions over the weekend that Mr Baker was on resignation watch over the deal but his comments today suggest he is firmly on board with Mr Sunak's plans.

Steve Baker, a Northern Ireland minister, is pictured leaving 10 Downing Street today - Isabel Infantes/AFP

12:14 PM

'Its not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders'

Downing Street has defended the decision to ask the King to meet Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, as the UK and the EU finalise a new Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The Prime Ministers Official Spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes "fundamentally" the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

"He firmly believes its for the King to make those decisions," the spokesman said.

"Its not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today."

12:03 PM

Arlene Foster criticises No10 over Ursula von der Leyen's meeting with the King

Arlene Foster, the former DUP first minister of Northern Ireland, has criticised Downing Street over Ursula von der Leyen's meeting with the King this afternoon.

She said it is "crass" to hold the meeting at the same time as the Brexit deal is being finalised and "will go down very badly" in Northern Ireland.

Here is her tweet:

I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI.



We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.  Arlene Foster DBE PC #ProudofNI. (@ArleneFosterUK) February 27, 2023

11:55 AM

Rishi Sunak 'looking forward' to talks with Ursula von der Leyen

Im looking forward to meeting @vonderleyen in Windsor today for further talks on the shared, practical solutions to the range of complex challenges around the Northern Ireland Protocol. https://t.co/AL5PXCrSJd  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 27, 2023

11:52 AM

Sir Lindsay Hoyle announces the death of Betty Boothroyd

Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Commons Speaker, has announced the death of Betty Boothroyd at the age of 93.

He said in a statement: "Not only was Betty Boothroyd an inspiring woman, but she was also an inspirational politician, and someone I was proud to call my friend.

"To be the first woman Speaker was truly ground-breaking and Betty certainly broke that glass ceiling with panache. She was from Yorkshire, and I am from Lancashire  so there was always that friendly rivalry between us. But from my point of view, it was heartening to hear a Northern voice speaking from the Chair.

"She stuck by the rules, had a no-nonsense style, but any reprimands she did issue were done with good humour and charm. Betty was one of a kind. A sharp, witty and formidable woman  and I will miss her."

11:48 AM

Analysis: Ursula von der Leyen's meeting with the King could prove politically controversial

The King meeting with a world leader is normally far from controversial. But the timing and backdrop of today's meeting with Ursula von der Leyen could prompt a political backlash.

Tory Brexiteers accused No10 of trying to drag the King into political matters at the weekend when the suggestion of a meeting first emerged.

And Jacob Rees-Mogg suggested this morning (see the post below at 09.32) that a meeting would be a mistake, arguing that the "sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted", referring to the Brexit deal.

Buckingham Palace made clear in its statement (see the post below at 11.19) that the meeting is happening as a result of a request from No10.

You can expect Mr Sunak to face some questions on this later when he addresses MPs.

11:24 AM

Ursula von der Leyen arrives in London

Im glad to be in the UK today to meet with Prime Minister @RishiSunak.



Im looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend. pic.twitter.com/GuyMzy2wbj  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2023

11:19 AM

Ursula von der Leyen to meet the King at Windsor Castle

The King will meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for tea at Windsor Castle this afternoon, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.

A palace spokesperson said: "The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so."

11:08 AM

Senior Tory Brexiteer: 'It's good to read it before you decide whether it's a good deal or not'

Theresa Villiers, a senior Tory Brexiteer and a former Northern Ireland secretary, said she had learned from "bitter experience" to wait to read the final text of a Brexit deal before deciding whether to back it or not.

She told Times Radio: "Very often agreements with the European Union have been portrayed in a certain way. And then when they're published, they turn out not to deliver the outcomes that people were promised.

"So I've learned from slightly bitter experience that it's good to read it before you decide whether it's a good deal or not, whether to vote yes or no."

She added: "I wouldn't say I'm a waiverer. I just believe in waiting to see legal texts before I decide on how to vote on it. So it may well be that the Prime Minister has secured some real concessions from the European Union, but I won't know that until I've seen the text and discussed it with my colleagues."

10:50 AM

Sir Iain Duncan Smith accuses Government of trying to 'bounce' Tory MPs into deal

Sir Iain Duncan Smith said he was concerned Tory MPs were being "bounced" into supporting Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal.

The former Conservative leader and leading Eurosceptic said backbenchers had not been consulted enough on the agreement but would be simply expected to support it.

He told The Telegraph: "What concerns me is the Government is making an attempt at a bounce, and there is nothing MPs hate more than being bounced into something.

"Theres lots of running around saying this a great success, but we havent seen any of the details. We have a real problem because we have no idea what has been agreed: what is its legal status, will there be binding changes, what have they given up in return for concessions."

10:42 AM

'Almost inevitable' Brexit deal will include continued role for ECJ in Northern Ireland - Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer said it is "almost inevitable" that the European Court of Justice will continue to play a role in Northern Ireland's affairs under Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal.

He said: "We have been working on these problems for a very, very long time and we know what some of the solutions are.

"It is almost inevitable that the ECJ will have to play some part in this. I think the Prime Minister recognises that, the Government recognises that, but we have got to make progress.

"We owe it to the people of Northern Ireland to get on and fix this. They are desperate to have this fixed, they deserve to have it fixed and we need to fix it for the whole of the UK."

10:33 AM

Sir Keir Starmer questions whether Rishi Sunak can sell Brexit deal to Tory MPs

The UK has been stuck in a "loop" of Tory prime ministers trying to sell Brexit deals to Tory Brexiteers for too long, Sir Keir Starmer has suggested.

Speaking after delivering a speech in central London this morning, Sir Keir said of Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal: "The question will be whether the Prime Minister has got the strength to sell it to his backbenches or not and I think many people will be frustrated that this is the loop we have been stuck in for a very, very long time and it is not something we would have with a Labour government because we don't have those divisions in our party on this issue."

10:26 AM

Labour government would 'restore trust' between UK and EU - Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer was asked after his speech what his first concrete act as prime minister would be to improve the UK's relationship with the EU, should he win power at the next general election.

He said: "I strongly believe that the single most important thing for an incoming Labour government is to restore trust and credibility in the process.

"We have been bedevilled in recent years by a lack of trust. We will see where today gets us with the protocol but certainly in all my dealings and conversations it is a basic lack of trust that has been the single biggest impediment."

10:19 AM

Labour growth plan 'the only show in town', claims Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer said a Labour government would secure a "fixed Brexit deal" which would "reset" the nation's relationship with the European Union.

The Labour leader claimed that his plan for increased economic growth is the "only show in town".

He said: "Unless we unlock the potential of every region and every nation we will never fix our economy."

Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, delivers a speech in central London this morning - Toby Melville/Reuters

10:15 AM

Sir Keir Starmer promises 'new model for economic growth'

Away from Brexit, Sir Keir Starmer is delivering a speech in central London this morning as he sets out more of his economic vision for the UK.

The Labour leader said his plan is to roll out a "new model for economic growth" based on unlocking "growth from the grassroots".

Sir Keir repeated his pledge to deliver the highest economic growth in the G7 by the end of a Labour government's first term in power.

09:54 AM

Pictured: Steve Baker arrives at 10 Downing Street

Steve Baker, a Northern Ireland minister, has just arrived at 10 Downing Street.

The former head of the European Research Group was on resignation watch on Saturday night after being frozen out of negotiations on the new Brexit deal.

But the leading Brexiteer gave a thumbs up as he left No10 on Sunday, indicating he was feeling positive.

Steve Baker, a Northern Ireland minister, arrives in Downing Street this morning - Isabel Infantes/AFP

09:49 AM

Pictured: Northern Ireland Secretary arrives in Downing Street this morning

Chris Heaton-Harris, the Northern Ireland Secretary, is pictured arriving in Downing Street this morning - Shutterstock

09:47 AM

Pictured: Boris Johnson leaves his London home this morning

Boris Johnson is pictured leaving his London home this morning - Jeremy Selwyn/SelwynPics

09:46 AM

Lib Dems urge Government to maintain energy support for families

Sir Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said the lowering of the energy price cap by Ofgem in April should prompt the Government to maintain its financial support for families (see the post below at 09.38).

He said: "This confirms the Government could easily afford to reduce energy bills in April instead of increasing them. People are already struggling to afford their rents and mortgages, food shopping and bills.

"It is unforgivable that the Conservatives are choosing to push desperate families over the edge by hiking their energy bills by another 500.

"Ministers must listen to our calls for an energy rescue package to save families and businesses from this cost of living cliff-edge, funded through a proper windfall tax."

09:38 AM

Ofgem lowers energy price cap

Ofgem announced this morning that it is lowering its energy price cap  the amount suppliers are able to charge customers  from the current 4,279 per year to 3,280 for the average household.

The new number will take effect from April 1.

The regulator said the reduction of almost 1,000 reflects recent falls in wholesale energy prices.

However, domestic energy bills are still set to rise by an average of 500 a year despite the reduction as the Governments support for households becomes more limited.

09:32 AM

'His Majesty should not be involved until there is full support for this agreement'

Jacob Rees-Mogg suggested it would be a mistake for Ursula von der Leyen to meet the King during her visit to the UK.

Talks between the European Commission President and Rishi Sunak will take place in Windsor, and there has been speculation she could meet the monarch.

Tory former Cabinet minister Mr Rees-Mogg told GB News: "I think the sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted.

"The King gives assent to Acts of Parliament when Parliament has agreed, he doesnt express his view on Acts of Parliament when they are going through the process. I think the same applies, that His Majesty should not be involved until there is full support for this agreement."

09:16 AM

'It will all depend on the DUP'

Jacob Rees-Mogg said "quite a significant number" of Tory MPs are likely to oppose Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal if the DUP does not support it.

Asked about the potential scale of opposition to the deal, Mr Rees-Mogg told GB News: "It will all depend on the DUP.

"If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

"The position of Boris Johnson is always important. He remains the biggest figure in UK politics and therefore his view will be of fundamental relevance to how this debate is carried out."

08:56 AM

Jacob Rees-Mogg: Rishi Sunak 'taking a punt' on DUP supporting Brexit deal

Jacob Rees-Mogg suggested Rishi Sunak is "taking a punt" on the DUP supporting his Brexit deal instead of securing the party's support before he finalised the agreement.

The former business secretary told GB News that the "DUP are the key decision makers in this".

He said: "My concern over all of this is what sounds to be quite an achievement has been weakened by not consulting the DUP in the first place to ensure their support was on board before it was announced, rather than taking a punt that they may like it afterwards.

"I think thats unfortunate, I think it hasnt necessarily been handled successfully in terms of communications."

08:48 AM

Ex-Cabinet minister says Government should make time for vote on Brexit deal

The Government is yet to give a concrete commitment to holding a vote in the House of Commons on Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal.

Sir Robert Buckland, the former justice secretary, said if it was up to him he would make time for a vote but he stressed that the Government technically does not need to hold one.

He told Sky News: "I think technically it probably doesn't... I understand politics, I have been around a long time, I think if I were the Government I would probably be making time for a debate and for some sort of vote that can be held by members.

"But I do think that as a matter of law it is important to remember that we put into place mechanisms in the EU Withdrawal Act back in 2020 that allow for these things to have direct effect through that already established legislative pipeline."

08:39 AM

Sir Robert Buckland: 'We mustn't let the perfect be the enemy of the good'

Sir Robert Buckland, a Tory former Cabinet minister, said Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal is unlikely to solve every problem linked to the Northern Ireland Protocol but it does look like it will be a "big step forward".

He told Sky News: "We mustn't let the perfect be the enemy of the good. I am sure that this deal will probably have some unanswered questions and maybe not solve all the issues in one fell swoop.

"But it does sound as if it is going to be a big step forward that means then we don't have to take this unilateral action here in the UK with the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill that is currently before Parliament."

08:32 AM

Senior Tory MP suggests Government should press ahead with Brexit deal even without DUP support

Sir Robert Buckland, the Tory former justice secretary, said a new Brexit deal to reduce border friction in Northern Ireland is "really positive news for the people of Northern Ireland" and it represents a "very positive step forward".

He also suggested the Government should press ahead with the deal even if it fails to win the support of the DUP.

Speaking to Sky News, he said: "I very much hope that the DUP will apporove what comes out of the package. I am hearing that there are potential developments on VAT and state subsidies which are big issues as well for the relationship between the EU and the UK.

"But I think now is the time for us to press ahead with a much needed change. I think that we need to think about citizens in Northern Ireland and their lives and the reality of life on the ground in Northern Ireland and work together for that change.

"Whilst it would be great to have the DUP on board, I think now is the time for us to get on with those reforms."

08:20 AM

Sir John Major urges DUP and Tory Brexiteers to compromise

Sir John Major, the former prime minister, has told Tory Brexiteers to compromise and accept a degree of EU legal oversight in Northern Ireland if that is the price for resolving trade issues.

Tory Brexiteers and the DUP have been insistent that the European Court of Justice should play no role in Northern Ireland's affairs moving forward.

But Sir John said any role for the court is likely to be "tiny, partial and occasional" and that one issue "really ought not to stop an agreement being made".

He told the BBC Radio 4 Westminster Hour: "What is actually turning out to be a particularly difficult point is the question of what happens with trade disputes. The European Union insists that the European Court of Justice should be involved and that is a neuralgic point for many members of Parliament in the UK, particularly the European Research Group wing of the Tory party and also for the DUP.

"This neuralgic situation has left Northern Ireland without an executive and without a powersharing assembly for well over a year and it could be a good deal longer. Trade isnt the only problem in Northern Ireland, they have got real problems with health, with education, with all sorts of other things and they need that executive back in operation.

"The extent to which the European Court of Justice would be involved would be in determining disputes between companies. They are not going to overturn the constitution - their involvement would be tiny, partial and occasional.

"And if we can get in a reform all the trade changes we need, the easier access for trade into Northern Ireland, then the fact that there would be a minute, occasional involvement of the European Court of Justice really ought not to stop an agreement being made. They talk of democracy, democracy is thrown away when that assembly is not sitting, we need them back."

08:15 AM

'I think to change leader again would be a mistake'

Changing Tory leader again would make the Conservative Party look "ridiculous", Jacob Rees-Mogg said this morning as he said he was not advocating replacing Rishi Sunak amid tensions over the Prime Minister' Brexit deal.

The former business secretary was asked this morning if he would like to see Boris Johnson return as PM. He told ITV's Good Morning Britain programme: "Boris was a great leader, it was a mistake to get rid of him, but no, I do not want to see a change in the Tory leadership now. I think we would look ridiculous to change leader again."

He continued: "I am not saying that I never want to see Boris come back for the whole of eternity but I want to see Conservative MPs and Conservative Party members supporting Rishi Sunak.

"I think to change leader again would be a mistake. We need to have a leader who commands the support of the party otherwise the next election will make 1997 look like a tea party."

08:09 AM

How today is likely to play out

Rishi Sunak is due to meet Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, for last minute talks at lunchtime, with the latter flying into London from Brussels this morning.

The meeting to finalise the deal is expected to take place in Windsor. Following the meeting Mr Sunak is expected to brief his Cabinet virtually on the deal he has agreed.

The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen are then due to hold a press conference before Mr Sunak then travels to Parliament to present the deal to the House of Commons in the late afternoon.

You can see the timeline in full here.

08:06 AM

'Devil is in the detail': Jacob Rees-Mogg reserves judgement on PM's new Brexit deal

Jacob Rees-Mogg, the former Cabinet minister, declined to offer his backing to Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal at this stage as he said he wanted to wait to read the agreement in full.

The leading Brexiteer said that the "devil is in the detail" with all deals struck between the UK and the EU.

He told ITV's Good Morning Britain programme: "We have got to see what the deal is. There are two things we need to know. One is what the DUP thinks because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday Belfast agreement.

"So if the DUP think it doesnt meet that test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

"And I am afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail so when people say we need to see the legal text, they are not just larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect of it is."

08:03 AM

Jacob Rees-Mogg: Brexit deal may not win support of DUP

Jacob Rees-Mogg has suggested Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal may not go far enough to win the support of the Democratic Unionist Party.

The former business secretary and leading Brexiteer told ITV's Good Morning Britain programme: "From what I have heard, he [Mr Sunak] has done very well but I am not sure that he has achieved the objective of getting the DUP back into powersharing which is the fundamental point of it."
northern ireland protocol why needed uk boris johnson michelle oneill sir jeffrey donaldson

Rishi Sunak has finalised his Brexit deal with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, saying that the agreement marks a "decisive breakthrough".

Under the direction of Mr Sunak, Downing Street officials have been working with their EU counterparts on the final stages of a compromise deal in three key areas in the implementation of the Protocol since January.

Here we tell you everything you need to know about the Protocol.

What is the Northern Ireland Protocol?

It was a deal struck between the UK and the European Union that determined what the trade rules would be for Northern Ireland after Brexit.

Northern Ireland shares a land border with Ireland, which is an EU member, over which goods move freely because there are no checkpoints.

Given all sides were committed to keeping that land border open, London and Brussels agreed to having checks on goods moving to and from the UK mainland.

But that effectively created a customs border between two different parts of the UK - Northern Ireland and Great Britain - which has infuriated Unionists.

What is the latest news?

Mr Sunak finalised a new agreement on improving the Northern Ireland Protocol at a lunchtime meeting with Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, in Windsor, on Monday.

They officially announced the deal at a press conference before the Prime Minister headed to the Commons to present it to MPs.

The Telegraph understands that Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal will not be put to a vote in the House of Commons this week.

So whats the problem?

Unionists have long feared the Northern Ireland Protocol is driving a wedge between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

The DUP claims the checks are driving up the cost of living but this is disputed by other parties in Northern Ireland, which claim the countrys special status in the Single Market has shielded its economy.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson leader DUP opposes the Protocol northern ireland protocol why when 2022 - Charles McQuillan/Getty Images Europe

The British Government argues that the Protocol is having a chilling effect on trade from the rest of the UK, which is Northern Irelands principle trading partner.

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Supply chains are shifting to EU suppliers to avoid the extra checks, which London says is unacceptable trade diversion.

Supporters of the agreement see it as mitigation against the consequences of Brexit.

What will the legislation try to solve?

The deal will propose to compromise in three key areas in the implementation of the Protocol.

The original agreement first struck by Boris Johnson and David Frost back in October 2019 meant that Northern Ireland effectively remains in the EUs Single Market and continues to follow EU rules.

In January 2021 a solution came into force that avoided a hard border with the Republic of Ireland, but implemented checks on certain goods travelling between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, creating a trade border in the Irish Sea.

Mr Sunak has said that the new deal "delivers free-flowing trade throughout the whole of the United Kingdom, it protects Northern Ireland's place in our union and it achieves sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland."

Anti Northern Ireland Protocol rallies 2022 why needed eu - Mark Marlow/PA Wire

This article is kept updated with the latest information.
Bryan Cranston says former President Trumps Make America Great Again 2016 campaign slogan could be considered a racist expression.

When I see the Make America Great Again, my comment is: Do you accept that that could possibly be construed as a racist remark? the former Breaking Bad star asked in a Sunday interview on CNNs Whos Talking to Chris Wallace?

And most people, a lot of people go, How could that be racist  Make America Great Again? Cranston, 66, said of Trumps famed slogan, which was splashed across bright red hats and other campaign gear during the businessmans 2016 White House race against Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.

Just ask yourself, from an African American experience, when was it ever great in America for the African American? Cranston asked Wallace.

When was it great? the Academy Award-nominated actor asked.

So if youre making it great again, its not including them, Cranston told Wallace in a response to a question about recent comments he made on Bill Mahers Club Random that critical race theory was essential to be teaching in schools.

Actor Bryan Cranston explains why he thinks the phrase "Make America Great Again" could possibly be construed as a racist remark. pic.twitter.com/GvrICiftvp  CNN (@CNN) February 26, 2023

Cranston, a critic of Trump, repeated his assertion to Wallace that critical race theory, an academic framework studying how racism has impacted institutions and policy, should be part of Americans educational experience.

I think its imperative that its taught that we look at our history  much the same I think that Germany has looked at their history [and] involvement in [World Wars I and II] and embrace it and say, This is where we went wrong. This is how it went wrong. This is why it cant go wrong again, Cranston said.

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And I think [Germany has] done a very commendable job in doing so. But the United States really hasnt, the performer added.

You present it and say, well, 400 years of slavery, yeah, but were moving on. And its like, no, lets really discuss it, Cranston told Wallace. How did that happen? How did we get to a point where we treated other human beings as slaves? Cranston asked, according to a transcript of the program.

As far as the Make America Great Again motto, Cranston said critical race theory could teach us in the woke world to open up and accept the possibilities that our privilege has created blind spots for us.

And maybe I havent seen what is really happening yet in all my years, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
[Source]

BTS J-Hope has started his mandatory military enlistment process.

The news was confirmed over the weekend by BTS label Big Hit Music, which released a statement on the groups fan community on Weverse.

Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC. We would like to inform our fans that J-hope has initiated the military enlistment process by applying for the termination of his enlistment postponement. We will inform you of further updates in due course. We ask you for your continued love and support for J-hope until he completes his military service and safely returns. Our company will spare no effort in providing support for our artist. Thank you.

J-Hope, 29, will be the second BTS member to enlist in the South Korean military following Jin, 30, who joined in December 2022.

More from NextShark: H.E.R. set to play Belle in new ABC special celebrating 30-year anniversary of Beauty and the Beast

The eldest BTS member recently teased J-Hope about his pending service on Weverse.

J-Hope expressed gratitude to Jin for calling him to chat. In response, Jin humorously replied that if they meet in-person while serving in the military, J-Hope should avoid making eye contact with him because Jin will hold a higher rank as a private.

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More from NextShark: The YouTubers who raised us: TikTok trend pays homage to the Ryan Higa Era of online video content

In October 2022, BTS agency issued a statement announcing that all the group's members will fulfill their mandatory military conscriptions when the time comes.

HYBE anticipates that the K-pop group will reconvene "around 2025."

Coinciding with J-Hopes military enlistment news was the reveal of his upcoming solo single titled On the Street, which will be released on March 3.

More from NextShark: Everything Everywhere All at Once wins big at 2023 Dorian Awards

J-Hope helped write the track and aims for it to be a lo-fi number with hip-hop elements and a hopeful message, according to a recent press release.

It will serve as a follow-up to his first solo album Jack in the Box, which was released in July 2022. A documentary about the K-pop star, which chronicles the making of his debut solo album and features his historic Lollapalooza performance last year, is out now on Disney Plus.
The passenger said he was "shocked" to be given a pair of chopsticks alongside the banana. Kris Chari

A passenger on a Japan Airlines flight ordered vegan food but was disappointed to be given a banana.

Non-vegan passengers were served tuna with a salad, cheese, and a baguette as a snack, per the menu.

Japan Airlines apologized for not meeting expectations for its vegan offering.

A passenger aboard a Japan Airlines flight said he was served a banana with chopsticks as part of the vegan inflight menu.

Kris Chari told Insider he booked to fly business class on Tuesday from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Tokyo. The flight was scheduled to last more than seven hours.

There were two meal services during the flight  the first was a snack and light refreshment served after takeoff and the second was lunch, a Japan Airlines representative told Insider. The snack option for non-vegan passengers consisted of seared tuna with a Moroccan-style eggplant salad, cheese with orange salsa, and a baguette, per the airline's menu and Chari's experience.

Chari told Insider he expected to receive the equivalent of what non-vegan passengers were served as a snack, such as a sandwich, salad, vegan cheese, or a baguette.

"Instead, I was served a single banana," he said. Chari sent verification to Insider confirming he was on the flight.

Chari said he spoke with a flight attendant and was "frankly quite shocked" to learn that the banana was a catered meal.

"It's a bit insulting to be served a single banana while others are given a far more substantial and flavorful menu," he said. "It seems especially important given the growth in the number of vegans and vegetarians."

A representative from Japan Airlines told Insider: "We apologize for not being able to meet expectations."

The person confirmed the snack and refreshment option for all special meals on this flight was a banana.

"We will continue to respond to our menus in light of the growing interest and diverse needs of customers requesting special meals, including the valuable feedback from this customer," the person said.

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Chari said the second vegan meal he received was spaghetti. Lunch options for non-vegan passengers flying in February included a cheese omelet, ratatouille, and a chicken sausage on the "Western Menu," and grilled salmon on the "Japanese Menu," per the airline's website.

A "vegetarian vegan meal" is listed under special meal menus on Japan Airlines' website and shows a sample picture of salad bowls, a baguette, a halal sorbet, and a larger rice dish.

Other airlines have come under scrutiny for not providing substantial vegan food options. For example, an Air Canada passenger said flight attendants initially offered her only water during a 10-hour flight from Frankfurt to Toronto, Insider previously reported.

Have you had a similar experience? Get in touch with this reporter via email kduffy@insider.com or DM her via Twitter. She also has Signal.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Japan Airlines passenger found the vegan meal option on a recent flight to be "underwhelming," to say the least.

Kris Chari requested a vegan breakfast on a trip from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Tokyo, Japan on Feb. 21 and wrote on the air travel forum FlyerTalk that they ended up being given a single banana and chopsticks.

A passenger said their vegan breakfast on a Japan Airlines flight consisted of one banana  plus chopsticks. (Kris Chari)

"Before takeoff today my flight attendant confirmed that I ordered VGML and that my breakfast was a banana, by which I mistakenly assumed she meant that breakfast included a banana," they wrote. "When she served the banana after takeoff I thought it was just an underwhelming appetizer, but it was in fact the entire meal service!"

While Chari wrote that the one banana was "really good," they were surprised at the "underwhelming" offering.

The flight featured a snack upon takeoff followed by a meal for lunch. The non-vegan snack options included seared tuna with a Moroccan-style eggplant salad, two kinds of cheese with orange salsa, and a baguette, according to the airline's menu.

"We take customer satisfaction seriously and we will continue to respond to our menus in light of the growing interest and diverse needs of customers requesting special meals, including the valuable feedback from this customer," a spokesperson for Japan Airlines tells TODAY.com.

The spokesperson added that the current snack/refreshment for all "special meals" on the route flown by Chari is a banana.

TODAY.com has reached to Chari for comment but did not immediately hear back.

Chari added that his lunch was "barely seasoned spaghetti." The non-vegan lunch options included grilled beef tenderloin and grilled salmon between the airline's Japanese and Western menus.

They wrote that their other meals were bad, but "nothing quite as insubstantial as this" in reference to the banana.

"It was cute of the crew to serve the banana with chopsticks, though!" Chari wrote.

A "vegetarian vegan meal" listed on the airline's website is accompanied by a photo showing a spread of halal sorbet, a baguette, a dish with rice and multiple vegetable bowls.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Key Insights

Using the Dividend Discount Model, CPT Global fair value estimate is AU$0.39

CPT Global's AU$0.35 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate

Peers of CPT Global are currently trading on average at a 55% premium

How far off is CPT Global Limited (ASX:CGO) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by taking the forecast future cash flows of the company and discounting them back to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model.

Check out our latest analysis for CPT Global

The Method

We have to calculate the value of CPT Global slightly differently to other stocks because it is a it company. Instead of using free cash flows, which are hard to estimate and often not reported by analysts in this industry, dividends per share (DPS) payments are used. This often underestimates the value of a stock, but it can still be good as a comparison to competitors. The 'Gordon Growth Model' is used, which simply assumes that dividend payments will continue to increase at a sustainable growth rate forever. The dividend is expected to grow at an annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 1.9%. We then discount this figure to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.4%. Compared to the current share price of AU$0.4, the company appears about fair value at a 7.9% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

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Value Per Share = Expected Dividend Per Share / (Discount Rate - Perpetual Growth Rate)

= AU$0.03 / (8.4%  1.9%)

= AU$0.4

dcf

Important Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at CPT Global as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.4%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.092. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for CPT Global

Strength

Currently debt free.

Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Opportunity

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Lack of analyst coverage makes it difficult to determine CGO's earnings prospects.

Threat

Dividends are not covered by earnings.

Looking Ahead:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. For CPT Global, we've put together three relevant factors you should further examine:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 5 warning signs with CPT Global (at least 4 which can't be ignored) , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Management:Have insiders been ramping up their shares to take advantage of the market's sentiment for CGO's future outlook? Check out our management and board analysis with insights on CEO compensation and governance factors. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Australian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

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.

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Key Insights

The projected fair value for MMAG Holdings Berhad is RM0.018 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

With RM0.015 share price, MMAG Holdings Berhad appears to be trading close to its estimated fair value

Peers of MMAG Holdings Berhad are currently trading on average at a 45% premium

How far off is MMAG Holdings Berhad (KLSE:MMAG) from its intrinsic value? Using the most recent financial data, we'll take a look at whether the stock is fairly priced by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Believe it or not, it's not too difficult to follow, as you'll see from our example!

Remember though, that there are many ways to estimate a company's value, and a DCF is just one method. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for MMAG Holdings Berhad

What's The Estimated Valuation?

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate:

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10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM2.28m RM3.62m RM5.16m RM6.75m RM8.28m RM9.68m RM10.9m RM12.0m RM13.0m RM13.9m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ 83.01% Est @ 59.18% Est @ 42.50% Est @ 30.82% Est @ 22.64% Est @ 16.92% Est @ 12.92% Est @ 10.11% Est @ 8.15% Est @ 6.78% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 20% RM1.9 RM2.5 RM3.0 RM3.3 RM3.4 RM3.3 RM3.1 RM2.9 RM2.6 RM2.3

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM28m

After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 3.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 20%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM14m (1 + 3.6%)  (20% 3.6%) = RM90m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM90m ( 1 + 20%)10= RM15m

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is RM43m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM0.01, the company appears about fair value at a 16% discount to where the stock price trades currently. The assumptions in any calculation have a big impact on the valuation, so it is better to view this as a rough estimate, not precise down to the last cent.

dcf

Important Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at MMAG Holdings Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 20%, which is based on a levered beta of 2.000. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for MMAG Holdings Berhad

Strength

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Weakness

Shareholders have been diluted in the past year.

Opportunity

Has sufficient cash runway for more than 3 years based on current free cash flows.

Current share price is below our estimate of fair value.

Lack of analyst coverage makes it difficult to determine MMAG's earnings prospects.

Threat

No apparent threats visible for MMAG.

Looking Ahead:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For MMAG Holdings Berhad, we've put together three important factors you should consider:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 4 warning signs with MMAG Holdings Berhad , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! Other Environmentally-Friendly Companies: Concerned about the environment and think consumers will buy eco-friendly products more and more? Browse through our interactive list of companies that are thinking about a greener future to discover some stocks you may not have thought of!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

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 inmate from the Puerta La Cruz conservation camp in Warner Springs puts out burning downed trees as she, other inmates and firefighters battle the Chariot fire near the Sunrise Highway in 2013. (Hayne Palmour IV / San Diego Union-Tribune)

Last year, voters in Vermont, Oregon, Tennessee and Alabama approved historic ballot measures that removed slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crime from their state constitutions, which could lead to limitations on forced prison labor. They joined a growing list of states that passed similar initiatives in recent years, including Nebraska, Utah and Colorado.

But in California, voters never got the chance.

Several months before the Nov. 8 election, lawmakers killed a proposal that would have asked voters to eliminate an exception in the state Constitution that allows for involuntary servitude for criminal punishment.

The emotional debate pitted arguments that compared prison labor to slavery against concerns that eliminating work requirements would undermine rehabilitation and jeopardize restitution payments to crime victims. Division between moderate Democrats and progressives, along with the price tag associated with the plan, eventually tanked the legislation.

But now Democrats are trying again, hoping that passage last year in other states could help sway more support in California. Assembly Constitutional Amendment 8  known as the "End Slavery in California Act"  would "prohibit slavery in any form," which includes "forced labor compelled by the use or threat of physical or legal coercion."

California's Constitution mirrors the 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits slavery, but allows for involuntary servitude as punishment for crime. Advocates pushing for the change, though, argue that involuntary servitude is just another word for slavery.

If passed by two-thirds of both houses of the Legislature, the proposed constitutional amendment would be placed on the November 2024 ballot for California voters to decide. At this point, it's unclear if the proposal would be more of a symbolic change than meaningful reform to California's prisons.

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun), who wrote the measure and leads the Legislature's Black Caucus, said it's important to first start with amending the state Constitution.

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"There is no room for slavery in our Constitution," Wilson said. "It is not consistent with our values, nor our humanity."

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, or CDCR, requires most incarcerated people to work while in prison, where individuals are assigned jobs that range from construction work and dog training to computer coding and hospice care.

Around 7,000 people have work assignments through the California Prison Industry, a state business enterprise that employs incarcerated people and that sells its goods  including office furniture, clothing and food products, license plates, cell equipment and print services  primarily to state agencies and departments.

Prison officials say that jobs help reduce recidivism and allow incarcerated people to pay their restitution and other court-ordered fees. Participants returned to prison 26% to 38% less often, according to the California Prison Industry, and their work "provides significant economic benefits to the state."

But advocates say the exception clause for prison labor has allowed states to exploit incarcerated people and continue slavery under a different name at the disproportionate expense of Black, Latino and Indigenous communities. A task force California set up to recommend reparations for the harm caused by slavery and racism has endorsed removing the exception clause and repealing the work requirement for incarcerated people.

Formerly incarcerated individuals said they faced serious disciplinary action if they refused work obligations, including solitary confinement or the removal of visitation and other privileges. Meanwhile, their wages rarely reach $1 an hour.

"This system of unfree labor  slave labor  by constitutional law is something that I think anybody with a conscience would find reprehensible," said Dennis Childs, an associate professor of African American literature at UC San Diego and author of the book "Slaves of the State: Black Incarceration from the Chain Gang to the Penitentiary."

The proposed amendment doesn't mandate wages or dictate working conditions. Instead, proponents of ACA 8 said it could eventually pave the way for incarcerated people to have more freedom over the work they're required to do.

Heile Gantan, a policy advocacy fellow at Anti-Recidivism Coalition, was sentenced to five years in prison and chose to join the fire camp program, which gives incarcerated people the chance to train and work as wilderness firefighters.

"That decision was voluntary," Gantan said. "However, everything that happened after that decision was not."

Physical training was grueling, Gantan said, and her crew had no days off during fires. Gantan watched as women endured mental and physical injuries, yet continued to work to avoid repercussion. The most she earned was $300 one fire season.

"The experience can be very traumatic for people," she said. "Where the forced prison labor, slavery essentially, doesn't help with mental health and rehabilitation."

CDCR spokesperson Vicky Waters said it's a legal requirement that individuals "participate in something meaningful while incarcerated."

Waters said workers are assigned jobs only after a thorough evaluation, and the department considers medical and health concerns during the placement process. Individuals can also join education, substance use and other career programs, depending on their needs.

"They can have several assignments, including education, vocational training, jobs or other programs, but we do prioritize their needs. Their safety is our top priority, of course, without question, and I also know that if anyone suffers an injury while on a job assignment, they are eligible for workers' comp like any other worker," Waters said.

Dorsey Nunn, executive director of Legal Services for Prisoners with Children, an organization supporting ACA 8, said the issue raised "a moral question."

Nunn served more than a decade in prison and while incarcerated at San Quentin State Prison, his job was to make detergent for Californias tunnels and highways. The work required him to handle chemicals and paid him little more than $30 a month, he said.

"Does slavery prepare me for the best opportunity to become an asset to the community as opposed to a liability?" he said. "What they're doing is not necessarily leading to public safety at all."

The proposal that failed last year initially passed the Assembly with bipartisan support before moderate Democrats joined Republicans in the Senate to block it.

Some senators argued that incarcerated people owe their victims restitution, and claimed that the amendment would affect rehabilitative efforts. Others worried about the increased cost of paying higher wages, concerns also raised by Gov. Gavin Newsom's administration. The state Department of Finance estimated that a minimum wage requirement could cost $1.5 billion annually.

The amendment failed to win the two-thirds majority vote needed in both houses of the Legislature to be placed on the ballot.

"We are talking about the justice system, and justice for victims," said former state Sen. Jim Nielsen (R-Red Bluff) during the debate. "This is about individuals who have harmed their fellow citizens. They are paying the price, which is justice, for the citizens of California and for particularly their victims."

Also siding with victims was Patricia Wenskunas, founder of Crime Survivors Inc.: "We should be writing legislation that supports victims of crime and providing them equally to what the offenders and criminals are receiving. The innocent victims, survivors and family members deserve better."

State Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda) also questioned how the change would affect restitution payments and "undermine our rehabilitation programs," while making prisons less safe. He said work requirements and how much incarcerated people make on the job was "worthy of debate," but not in a way that would tie the Legislatures hand forevermore" and invite lawsuits.

Proponents backing ACA 8 reject those arguments and say that incarcerated people want to work and that fears of a labor force collapsing are unfounded.

Aaron Littman, assistant professor of law at UCLA School of Law, said work can be rehabilitative for incarcerated people, but it could be used much more effectively, and mostly in a way that provides better wages and skills training that prepares individuals for release.

Littman said how the amendment is written also matters. To change forced labor conditions, additional legislation is needed to address workers rights, wages and other employment concerns.

While some states explicitly banned slavery and involuntary servitude, others included language that still allows for prison work and makes it harder for incarcerated people to sue for labor violations.

Incarcerated people in Colorado, for example, sued the state's prison system last year, alleging that their working conditions violated the amended state constitution. In Nebraska, some people incarcerated in a county jail are now getting paid for their work.

But in Tennessee, the amendment was written to say that "slavery and involuntary servitude are forever prohibited," with the exception that "nothing in this section shall prohibit an inmate from working when the inmate has been duly convicted of a crime.

Tennessee Rep. Bob Freeman, a Nashville Democrat and proponent of the amendment, said it's had no effect on prison labor.

"The intent is that words matter, and having slavery allowable in any way, shape or form in the constitution in the state of Tennessee is not OK. And it was time to have it removed," Freeman said.

Jamilia Land, co-founder of the Anti-Violence, Safety and Accountability Project, said it will take time to dismantle "hundreds of years of systemic oppression" and that changes to California's prison labor standards might not be immediate.

"We can't forecast or foretell what it may look like," Land said, "but it would be nice to finally live in a state and country that recognizes the basic humanity of certain groups of people."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
By Jane Lanhee Lee

OAKLAND, Calif. (Reuters) - Paris-based startup Prophesee, a maker of camera chips inspired by the way the human eye works, said on Monday it has signed a multi-year deal with Qualcomm Inc to be used with the smartphone technology giant's product.

While today's camera chips continuously process the full frame of images, Prophesee's chip will only process changes in the scene, such as light or movement, which makes it faster and requires less computing power, said Luca Verre, co-founder and chief executive at Prophesee.

Verre said that's similar to the way the human eye focuses on certain objects rather than taking in all details in the background.

The technology works with pixels on the sensor that only send information to the processor when there is change, while pixels that perceive no change stay muted. There are a million pixels on Prophesee's latest chips.

Manufacturing of the chip will be outsourced to Sony Group Corp. "So we are really combining both key players in the space," said Verre, referring to both Qualcomm and Sony, without disclosing financial terms of the deal.

Verre said the Prophesee chip will be used in addition to conventional camera chips in a blueprint for smartphones that will be released this week at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Mass production of the chips is planned for next year when they would be integrated into phones, he said.

The additional Prophesee chip will help correct some of the blurry imagery in existing smartphone camera systems, said Verre.

(Reporting by Jane Lanhee Lee; Editing by Kenneth Maxwell)
By Ismail Shakil

OTTAWA (Reuters) -Canada on Monday announced a ban on Chinese-owned social media app TikTok from government-issued devices, saying it presents an "unacceptable" level of risk to privacy and security, adding to the growing rift between the two countries.

The move underscores the growing lobby against TikTok, owned by Chinese firm ByteDance Ltd, over concerns of its proximity to Beijing and hold over user data across the world.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters that his government was looking carefully at how to ensure Canadians' online safety.

"This may be a first step, it may be the only step we need to take," he said referring to the action against TikTok.

As government bans TikTok on work phones, "many Canadians, businesses and private individuals will reflect on the security of their own data and perhaps make choices in consequence," he said.

The ban would go into effect from Tuesday and federal employees would also be blocked from downloading the application in the future, according to a statement from Canada's Treasury Board, which oversees the public administration.

TikTok's data collection methods provide considerable access to the contents of the phone, Treasury Board President Mona Fortier said in the statement.

"While the risks of using this application are clear, we have no evidence at this point that government information has been compromised," she said.

TikTok initially said it was disappointed by the decision, but later issued another statement to note that it was "curious" that Canada moved to block the app only after similar bans in the European Union and the United States.

The ban was issued "without citing any specific security concern or contacting us with questions," a TikTok spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

The European Commission imposed a similar ban last week, while the U.S. Senate in December passed a bill to bar federal employees from using the app on government-owned devices. India banned TikTok in 2020.

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TENSE RELATIONS

Canada's action presents another potential thorn in Sino-Canadian relations which have been tense in recent years for various reasons, most recently over accusations by Ottawa that China has tried to influence its elections and that it has been running air and maritime surveillance activities.

Beijing denies those allegations and has urged Ottawa to stop what it has described as unwarranted speculation and smearing.

Ottawa has also previously excluded Chinese firms from Canada's critical minerals and telecommunication sectors, citing risks to its national security.

In November, it ordered three Chinese companies divest their investments in Canadian critical minerals and before that it banned the use of 5G gear made by Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's and ZTE Corp.

Last week, Canada's federal and three provincial privacy regulators said they were jointly investigating TikTok over concerns about the platform's collection, use and disclosure of personal information.

The Treasury Board said in its statement that the decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice.

"The Communications Security Establishments Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (Cyber Centre) guidance strongly recommends that Canadians understand the risks and make an informed choice on their own before deciding what tools to use."

(Reporting Ismail Shakil in Ottawa; additional reporting by Steve Scherer in Ottawa and Yuvraj Malik in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel, Deepa Babington and Marguerita Choy)
Ottawa has ordered TikTok to be removed from all government-issued devices - REUTERS/Mike Blake

Canada has become the latest Western nation to restrict usage of the Chinese-owned app TikTok because of security fears.

Ottawa has ordered TikTok to be removed from all government-issued devices, and has banned users from downloading the social media platform, owned by Chinas ByteDance, in the future.

The Canadian move follows similar steps in the US and the EU, and is likely to put Rishi Sunak under renewed pressure to ban British government officials from using TikTok.

The decision to remove and block TikTok from government mobile devices is being taken as a precaution, particularly given concerns about the legal regime that governs the information collected from mobile devices, and is in line with the approach of our international partners, said Mona Fortie, president of the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat.

She added: While the risks of using this application are clear, we have no evidence at this point that government information has been compromised.

The Canadian government's ban does not apply to members of the country's broader public, for whom using TikTok is a personal choice, Ms Fortie said.

The decision was reached following a review conducted by Catherine Luelo, the Chief Information Officer of Canada, who found TikTok to present an unacceptable risk to privacy and security.

A spokesman for TikTok commented: "It's curious that the Government of Canada has moved to block TikTok on government-issued devices  without citing any specific security concern or contacting us with questions  only after similar bans were introduced in the EU and the US.

"We are always available to meet with our government officials to discuss how we protect the privacy and security of Canadians, but singling out TikTok in this way does nothing to achieve that shared goal. All it does is prevent officials from reaching the public on a platform loved by millions of Canadians."

The ban follows measures adopted by the European Union and the United States, amid mounting concerns of Chinese snooping.

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Last week, all staff of the EUs executive arm were ordered to delete the video app from their phones. European Commission workers were also required to remove TikTok from their personal devices if any work related apps were installed on them.

The EU said the ban was to protect the Commission against cybersecurity threats and actions which may be exploited for cyberattacks.

It followed a similar ban in the US, where President Joe Biden ordered TikTok to be wiped from phones and other federal devices last December.

Canadas ban will heighten the pressure on the UK government to follow suit and ban the app from British government devices.

Last week, Alicia Kearns, chairman of the foreign affairs select committee, told Mr Sunak: Weve now seen both the EU and the US take action on TikTok over security concerns: the acquisition of our personal data by a hostile state.

The Government needs to review its policies and look to ban government officials and parliamentary staff from installing the app on any mobile phones utilised for work, if not any device.
By Steve Scherer

OTTAWA (Reuters) -Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday denied a media report from last week saying his office had been warned by Canada's spy agency to drop a Liberal candidate, who is now a member of parliament, because he had Beijing's support.

The Chinese government preferred Han Dong, a Chinese Canadian, over another Chinese Canadian Liberal, who was passed over in favor of Han, said Global News, a national broadcaster, citing anonymous security sources in a story posted online.

The article said the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) urged Trudeau's "team" to rescind Han's candidacy. Instead he went on to win a seat in the House of Commons in a Toronto riding in 2019, and was re-elected in 2021.

"Dong is an outstanding member of our team and suggestions that he is somehow not loyal to Canada should not be entertained," Trudeau told a news conference in Mississauga.

"Suggestions we've seen in the media, that CSIS would somehow say, 'No, this person can't run or that person can't run,' is not just false, it's actually damaging to people's confidence in our democratic and political institutions."

The Global report follows a Globe and Mail story published earlier this month, also citing anonymous security sources, saying that Chinese diplomats and their proxies worked to defeat Conservative politicians considered more hostile to Beijing in the 2021 election.

Trudeau has said China has attempted to meddle in Canada's elections, but he insists that two reports by an intelligence task force set up to study foreign influence in elections have said the outcome of both the 2019 and 2021 elections were not altered.

"That doesn't mean that we are not faced on an ongoing basis by attempts at interference in our democracies, both during and before and after" an election, Trudeau said.

In a written statement, Han said he would support efforts from parliamentarians to investigate alleged interference.

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"I strongly reject the insinuations in media reporting that allege I have played a role in offshore interference in these processes and will defend myself vigorously against such inaccurate and irresponsible claims that come from an unverified and anonymous source," Han wrote.

The Chinese embassy in Ottawa did not immediately respond to a request to comment on the Global report.

Han was raised and educated in Toronto after his parents immigrated to Canada from Shanghai in the early 1990s, and worked in his parent's 24-hour coffee shop while growing up, the Liberal Party Web site says.

(Reporting by Steve Scherer;Editing by Alistair Bell and Stephen Coates)
Cardi B says that community service "has been the best thing that has happened to me." (Chris Pizzello / Invision / Associated Press)

Rap star Cardi B, who readily complained about the early hours involved in her community-service sentence, now believes it's the "best thing that has happened" to her.

Following a conditional discharge before her case went to trial last September, the Grammy-winning rapper was ordered to complete 15 days of community service related to a 2018 brawl she was involved in at a strip club in Queens, N.Y.

Community service has been the best thing that has happened to me, the "I Like It" and "WAP" rapper tweeted Saturday. Almost like a spiritual journey because sometimes I leave these centers in tears. Those people that we leave behind they just need somebody to talk and a lil push and YOU might be able to change their life forever.

Community service has been the best thing that has happened to me. Almost like a spiritual journey because sometimes I leave these centers in tears .Those people that we leave behind they just need somebody to talk and a lil push and YOU might be able to change their life forever  Cardi B (@iamcardib) February 25, 2023

According to New York's PIX11, a judge granted the New York-bred artist an extension to complete her community service, and she now has until Wednesday to do so. Otherwise, she could face a 15-day jail sentence, the Associated Press reported. It's unclear how many hours she has completed thus far.

The 30-year-old superstar told her Instagram followers that she had been working with veterans and ex-soldiers. On Friday, the former stripper and "Love & Hip Hop" alum was the special guest at a New York Police Dept. "Girl Talk" event, part of an NYPD program aimed at building trust and fostering mentorship between police officers and girls.

The NYPD Police Academy tweeted that the rapper shared her rags to riches story" and encouraged the young women to pursue their dreams. She spoke onstage and also took selfies with the girls during the event.

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Cardi B shared her rags to riches story with #NYPD Girls Talk. She talked about her struggles and how she overcame them to achieve success. She encouraged the girls to work hard and pursue their dreams, no matter how big or small they may be. Thank you @iamcardib pic.twitter.com/7j06hi6F60  Police Academy (@NYPDTraining) February 25, 2023

I feel like theres so many people that make yall probably feel like, This is whats cool, this is whats going on, this is what it takes to be lit, this is what it takes to be fire, the recording artist said. "Sometimes thats a little bit of peer pressure ... on a girl. Dont fall into that. You know what Im saying? Like, be great. Be you. Youre amazing. Youre dope yourself.

The "Bodak Yellow" emcee, whose real name is Belcalis Almanzar, began posting selfies and writing tweets last week chronicling her time served, repeatedly telling her 28.8 million followers to "obey the law" and "don't commit crimes."

"Community service .I have to do a lot of hours today and Im very sleepy ..YOU DO THE CRIME YOU DO THE TIME!!!!!" she tweeted last Thursday. The next day, she wrote, "My brains are burning from waking up early ,community service then studio.but I did the crime 'I only have myself to blame.'"

Cardi B initially rejected a plea deal in the case in 2019, then pleaded not guilty to several charges stemming from the August 2018 fight with two sisters at the Angels Gentlemens Club and Restaurant. She was indicted weeks later on 14 charges  including two felony counts of attempted assault  then pleaded guilty to two misdemeanor charges last September.

The multiplatinum artist was sentenced to 15 days of community service and ordered to pay court fees, and a three-year full order of protection was given to the two victims involved in the altercation. (One of Cardi's co-defendants, Jeffrey Bush, was ordered to serve six months in jail for his part in the melee.)

"Part of growing up and maturing is being accountable for your actions," the mother of two said at the time. "As a mother, it's a practice that I am trying to instill in my children, but the example starts with me. I've made some bad decisions in my past that I am not afraid to face and own up to.

"These moments don't define me and they are not reflective of who I am now," she added. "I'm looking forward to moving past this situation with my family and friends and getting back to the things I love the most  the music and my fans."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
SEASIDE, Ore.  This tranquil coastal town is known for its wide beaches and grand promenade  and for becoming a target for drug traffickers peddling meth supplied by a Mexican super cartel.

Drug dealers may not have worried about being caught here, in Clatsop County, a 90-minute drive northwest from the bustling city of Portland.

But they didn't know about dogged sheriff's detective John Walker, who developed informants and bought drugs while undercover. FBI agents lauded Walker's work, which helped the Bureau and Homeland Security Investigations expose an extensive drug distribution cell that targeted the Pacific Northwest.

It was run by a deported felon who kept sneaking back across the border.

John Walker, then a detective with the Clatsop County Sheriff's Office in Oregon, earned praise by FBI for dogged drug investigations.

The Portland-based drug network, which stretched into affluent area suburbs, westbound to Oregon's quaint coastal cities and north into southwestern Washington, is emblematic of a key Mexican cartel strategy to establish drug pipelines far beyond the border and into small, unsuspecting towns.

"When you hear about the drug cartels and the amounts of drugs coming across the border, you start thinking those are big city problems," said Clatsop County Sheriff's Sgt. Jason Hoover, who oversaw Walker and teamed to raid area drug houses in the case.

"But if you have drugs in your community, and I don't think there is any community that can say they don't have any, it is coming from the drug cartels. It's still a little shocking when you can tie it together and say for certain that's where it came from."

Mexican national Victor Alvarez Farfan

Victor Alvarez Farfan, a native of Michoacan, Mexico, headed the Portland drug ring blamed for bringing large amounts of meth, heroin and fentanyl across the border beginning in October 2017.

He previously was convicted on federal drug charges in the U.S. and was deported at least twice. He had at least five aliases and kept slipping back into the U.S.

He and Helida Montes, his partner for 16 years, settled their two children in Oregon City as Farfan grew his business, roping in two of his nephews.

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This case had some odd twists, including the involvement by a retired U.S. Marine and his wife, an agonizing test of family loyalties and a gruesome threat from Mexico.

In just six months, smugglers brought across the border almost two kilos of fentanyl  up to 1 million lethal doses of the No. 1 drug killing Americans. That load was headed from Portland to Baltimore.

Farfan's drug ring also sent drugs to Gresham, east of Portland, Hood River, a port on the Columbia River an hour northeast of Portland, and north into Tacoma, Washington.

Robert Hammer, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Seattle, told The Courier Journal that cartels take advantage of the Interstate 5 corridor, a straight route that runs from the San Ysidro border crossing north through Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and into Vancouver, Canada.

"Theyre a business," Hammer said of cartels. "They send their businessmen out into the U.S. to look for areas of opportunity." His agents helped on the Farfan investigation.

More:He reached 'kingpin' status by selling Mexican cartel-supplied drugs. But betrayal awaited

"We see these nodes or pockets of cartel-related activity springing up in small, rural towns on the east side of Washington, in metropolitan areas like Portland and Seattle. We see them operating illegal marijuana farms in southern Oregon."

In Seaside, known for commercial fishing and timber, traffickers easily established a strong customer base.

"There would be times on surveillance where you'd see 15 to 25 people roaming the local trap house waiting for the next supply to come in, walking around or sitting in cars, just waiting," said Walker, who later left the department.

In 2017, Walker led a raid on a couple of Clatsop drug houses, teaming with Seaside, Cannon Beach and Oregon state police. They found drugs and drug couriers, including a former nurse, linked back to Hillsboro in neighboring Washington County. Walker then secured search warrants to monitor social media accounts, where drug ring members chatted in code on Facebook Messenger.

Walker realized he wasn't the only one watching this drug ring. A larger probe was underway by Washington County Sheriff's WIN Team, the Westside Interagency Narcotics task force that includes agents with the FBI, Hillsboro and Beaverton police and the Oregon National Guard County-Drug investigators.

Scenic highways along the Pacific Coast give drug couriers carting Mexican drugs easy access to large cities and small towns in California, Oregon and Washington.

Investigators uncovered three main pieces of the puzzle that revealed a snapshot of how this drug ring thrived. First, Mexican cartel suppliers established a pipeline to the Portland area. From there, Victor Farfan and his inner circle supplied drug trafficker John Armas in Hillsboro. Armas, in turn, supplied the former nurse and other dealers who carted the drugs further west into Seaside and other communities in Clatsop.

Farfan brought in at least 20 kilos of meth, half a kilo of heroin and nearly two kilos of fentanyl.

After agents toppled the Oregon drug network in 2018 and arrested 23 suspects, there were murders in Mexico that U.S. investigators suspect were meant to scare and silence potential witnesses in the Portland case. To an extent, it worked, illustrating how cartels manipulate on both sides of the border through threats and violence.

Agents and prosecutors didn't openly discuss in court records or hearings which cartel supplied Farfan, but The Courier Journal learned in February that he was supplied by a top U.S. target, the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion  the subject of a nine-month investigation and 28-page special report by the newspaper in 2019.

Known as CJNG, the cartel is a global powerhouse, detected on every continent except Antarctica. It has drug cells all across the U.S., even in tiny towns. It has an army of 5,000 members, including some former police officers. And, according to reports by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, CJNG and its rival, the infamous Sinaloa Cartel, are the top two suppliers fueling the deadliest drug epidemic in U.S. history.

CJNG cartel boss "El Mencho" tops the DEA's Most Wanted list with a $10 million reward for help finding him.

Farfan got the drugs from CJNG members in Michoacan, a western state long controlled by the cartel, La Familia Michoacana. This case is another example of how CJNG is increasingly vying for turf in Michoacan, the birthplace of its leader, Ruben Oseguera Cervantes. Known as "El Mencho," he's remained in hiding for years and is on the DEA's Most Wanted list.

Many court documents in the Farfan case remain sealed, hiding secrets shared by drug ring members and associates, and some involved in the case opted not to talk because of the volatility of the Mexican suppliers. Still, The Courier Journal traveled to Portland, its suburbs, the Oregon coast and Seattle to review court records and interview federal agents, defense attorneys and prosecutors to learn about the Farfan drug ring, its cartel ties and how it finally imploded.

Grisly warning in Portland case

Victor Alvarez Farfan began sneaking into the U.S. and targeting the Portland area more than two decades ago when he was in his early 20s.

He had a 1999 aggravated felony drug conviction in Multnomah County and was deported in 2001. Four years later, he was caught selling drugs out of a southeast Portland auto repair shop.

For police, it was dea vu. Two years earlier, they stumbled onto a drug business at the same auto repair shop allegedly run by suspect Jose Cruz Gutierrez Bustos. Investigators believe Bustos fled to Mexico.

Farfan wasn't as lucky. Agents arrested him in 2006, and he was convicted of illegally reentering the U.S. and trafficking cocaine and meth. He remained in prison until his deportation in 2015, court records show.

But two years later, agents discovered he had slipped back into the U.S., returned to Portland and resumed trafficking cocaine and meth and had added heroin to his offerings.

More:Will El Chapo son's arrest slow export of drugs to US? Next steps crucial, experts say

This time, as Farfan oversaw his drug business, FBI agents mounted an investigation against him.

Police arrested Farfan in October 2018 as he and Montes drove toward California on Highway 99 near Roseburg, nearly three hours south of Portland, while towing a car. A federal grand jury had indicted him and more than 20 others on money laundering and drug trafficking charges.

Farfan refused to talk to agents or prosecutors. His attorney, Noel Grefenson, declined comment for this story.

Regardless, prosecutors had strong evidence including transcripts from six months of wire taps in 2018 as Farfan chatted about drug shipments.

"He spoke with Mexican-based members of the conspiracy, met interstate couriers and directed subordinates," prosecutors noted in a government motion to keep Farfan locked up pending trial.

Cartel members issued a stark warning in Mexico that reverberated through the drug network in Oregon. Headless bodies were dumped at the doorstep of a business associated with the Farfan family in their home state of Michoacan.

The Farfans and other defendants mulling over plea offers took it as a threat if they mentioned any cartel connections. Many were scared silent and to this day no Mexican suppliers have faced justice for these crimes. It's a common and effective tactic used by many cartels. They control witnesses in the U.S. by threatening to kidnap, torture and kill loved ones within their reach in Mexico, hamstringing agents trying to target drug kingpins and their powerful inner circle.

'That puts a target on my back'

For two years, Farfan's nephew, Eduardo Alvarez Farfan, was scared silent.

Eduardo, known as "Pollo" or "Chicken," began running errands, or drug runs, for his uncle when he was 20 or 21 and claims he had no understanding of the scope of the drug ring or the risks he was taking.

"When Eduardo got involved in this he was a very young man, and it was because of a family connection  an uncle who had been involved in Mexico organized crime for decades," his attorney, Matthew A. Schindler, told The Courier Journal, referring to Victor Farfan.

Eduardo began running errands for his uncle, including delivering a bag to an El Salvador native who flew in from Maryland.

Investigators trailed behind Eduardo to the Lloyd Center shopping mall in Portland on July 10, 2018. He handed the bag to Noe Antonio Machado-Medrano, then age 23. Agents followed Machado-Medrano as he took a taxi to a bus station and headed to a bathroom. Police grabbed him, finding two kilos of fentanyl stuffed in a backpack.

A view of downtown Portland, Ore., on Oct. 12, 2022. Interstate 5 runs through the city, and Mexican cartels frequently use the I-5 corridor to distribute illegal drugs.

More:US drug czar wants India to stem flow of chemicals used by Mexican cartels for fentanyl

"One of the techniques cartels use here in the United States is to take young people and make them responsible for significant amounts of drugs in order to shield themselves," Schindler said.

During Eduardo's detention hearing, prosecutors told the judge the Farfan drug ring was supplied by a Mexican cartel. Hearing the word "cartel" uttered in open court instantly rattled Eduardo.

"That puts a target on my back," he told his attorney. "I don't know who they are, but they know who I am, and they know what's going on here."

"He said: 'I'll do the time. I don't want to put my wife, my family in danger.'"

Eduardo mulled over his future. He knew that cartels have connections inside U.S. prisons. And he realized he faced a mandatory minimum of 10 years if convicted at trial and would miss watching his 6-month-old son grow up.

He also didn't want to be shunned by his close-knit family for betraying his uncle, a senior relative.

He agreed to talk to agents only about certain drug crimes, including detailing his actions and his uncle's actions inside the U.S., after a judge released him from jail on bond  and after his elder family members gave him their blessing. He never mentioned suppliers in Mexico linked to a cartel, or what he called the Mexican mafia.

His cousin, Roberto Carlos Farfan Alvarez, known as "Raton" or "Mouse," pleaded guilty but never talked to police. He knew he faced deportation back within reach of the cartels.

Roberto, 22, had a fiance and young daughter in Morelia, a city in Michoacan. He initially came to the U.S. to earn money as a mechanic for another relative. But he ended up working for his Uncle Victor.

Robert Salisbury at his office in St. Helens, Ore. on Oct. 11, 2022. He is the attorney for Roberto Farfan Alvarez, the nephew of the leader of a Portland drug network Victor Alvarez Farfan.

At first, he supervised work crews at his uncle's construction business building houses, Roberto's attorney, Robert Salisbury, said. But soon, he was asked to deliver drugs.

"He was terrified to talk about this," his attorney told The Courier Journal. "Either you or your family could be killed. There's a serious danger. There's a lot of family back in Michoacan."

Roberto never talked to agents or prosecutors. A judge sentenced Roberto to three years in custody in January 2021. He received credit for time in jail awaiting trial and has since been released and deported.

Last year, a judge sentenced Eduardo to 30 months behind bars, followed by five years supervised release.

"I had a prosecutor who was sympathetic that this guy was just a bond-hit, video-game type of kid," Schindler said. "And that his uncle had manipulated him and used him and his cousin."

More:Ignoring cartel danger, Mexican families scour wilderness for missing loved ones' remains

Luring in a retired U.S. Marine

In Hillsboro, a suburb 30 minutes west of Portland, a savvy drug cell leader supplied by Victor Farfan seemed untouchable.

Police had long known John Armas was a major meth trafficker, but he was careful. He said very little while chatting on cell phones, and he changed phones a lot.

Hillsboro, Oregon, meth trafficker John Armas once seemed untouchable, but he is now in federal prison.

He ran a drug network that trafficked kilos of meth with help from his then-wife, Socorro Elena Gutierrez, from their Washington County home.

Armas and his wife, known as "Coco," used a handful of drug associates to store and repackage the drugs and drive them to Seaside and surrounding areas. He paid couriers to return the drug profits to him. Armas, in turn, paid Farfan, who then oversaw the flow of money back to cartel members in Mexico.

Armas enlisted help from his neighbors, a retired U.S. Marine and his wife.

The military veteran served in Operation Desert Shield in 1990 and didn't have a criminal history, but he and his wife suffered from addiction. Armas used the couple's home as a drug stash house, paying them with enough meth for their daily fix. Armas also asked them to repackage large amounts of drugs and sell out of their home to users as well as mid-level dealers.

The Pacific Ocean town of Seaside, Ore., was an unlikely place for Mexican cartels to distribute drugs, but they are able to operate under less scrutiny in such areas. Oct. 13, 2022.

Investigators listened in on several calls between Armas and his neighbors using code to coordinate drug deals.

FBI agents led a raid at the couple's home on Oct. 24, 2018, arresting the 51-year-old military veteran and his 53-year-old wife. The couple's daughter, age 11, also was home. Police found seven guns in the couple's bedroom.

Months later, the veteran texted his adult son about his gratitude that agents arrested him, saving his life. During his three months in jail, he got sober.

Oregon law allows a cannabis store to operate freely next door to the Seasaide Police Department in the coastal town of Seaside, Ore. on Oct. 13, 2022. The town has been an unlikely place for Mexican cartels to distribute illegal drugs. The cartels are able to operate under less scrutiny in areas such as this.

"He has transformed his life from being an insular methamphetamine abuser to an active member of the recovery community, mentoring and guiding others who struggle," his attorney argued in a May 6, 2020, sentence memo asking for leniency. By the time of the hearing, the veteran was 560 days sober.

Armas also used a former nurse from Clatsop County who was battling addiction to cart drugs from Hillsboro to the coast.

In May, a judge sentenced Armas to serve seven years and six months in prison, followed by five years of supervision. He had to pay $50,000. In July, Coco was sentenced to time served and released. She must report to a federal probation officer for five years.

More:This small-town Oregon bricklayer had a side hustle: Gun supplier for Mexican drug cartel

Farfan: 'I am not the worst person here'

As Farfan's day of reckoning neared, he and his family pleaded for leniency.

Farfan pleaded guilty in November 2021 to trafficking drugs and illegally reentering the U.S. and was the last of 23 defendants in the case to admit guilt.

His attorney lobbied for 13 years, claiming his client likely couldn't survive a longer prison stint.

During his March sentence hearing, Farfan apologized for his crimes, but insisted, "I've never been a violent person. I hate violence," according to a transcript of the hearing, with Farfan appearing before the judge from prison on Zoom.

More:Mexico-US investigation links cartel downing of military helicopter to Oregon gun supplier

"I know that what I committed was wrong, but believe me, I'm not the worst person here. I am a family man. I would like to be able to be with them."

The mother of his two youngest children wrote a letter saying: "He is one of the greatest fathers that there is. He is loving, respectful and a very caring human being."

Prosecutors successfully pushed for 15 years in their sentencing memo, pointing to Farfan's "unwillingness to stop drug trafficking and his unwillingness to remain outside of the United States." Farfan also had to hand over $100,000.

U.S. District Court Judge Michael H. Simon said he was troubled by Farfan's repeated drug crimes dating back at least to 1999.

The judge also noted that while there was no evidence Farfan was physically violent, "the drugs that he played a role in distributing, including as a leader, caused so much harm in our community."

A few instances of the harm: A co-defendant killed himself to avoid prison, and a 9-year-old girl tested positive for meth after her parents helped repackage drugs for resale.

The judge said Farfan's attorney negotiated "a very significant break for him," cutting his possible prison time in half, considering sentencing guidelines called for a sentence of 30 years.

Farfan agreed to forfeit $100,000, and the judge ordered him to remain on supervised release for five years after he serves his time in prison.

When he gets out, he again faces deportation.

Reporter Beth Warren: bwarren@courier-journal.com; 502-582-7164; Twitter @BethWarrenCJ.

Members of global cartel powerhouse CJNG, one of two main suppliers of deadly drugs in America.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: El Mencho's Mexican cartel CJNG supplied drugs to Portland, Oregon
The executive director of the Chatham County Housing Authority has been federally indicted on charges of defrauding the government out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

JoAnn Johnson Davis used her position to run an elaborate scheme to pay herself, her friends and family with federal money from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, prosecutors say.

Davis was arrested Friday in Greensboro by U.S. Marshals, arrest warrants show. She has been director of the Housing Authority based in Siler City since July 2012.

News of the arrest and the federal indictment was first reported Sunday by the Chatham News + Record. The indictment was filed in the Middle District of North Carolina on Feb. 13 and was unsealed Friday

Prosecutors accuse Davis of using her position to award over $200,000 in contracts for services to friends and family members in exchange for kickbacks that allowed her to profit from the bogus contracts.

Davis and four other people are charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Davis is also charged with wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, program fraud and false statements in violation of federal law, court records reviewed by The News & Observer show.

The four other co-conspirators  Clintess Roberta Barrett-Johnson, Michelle Necole Bell-Johnson, Robert Johnson, Jr. and Candace Agatha Brunson-Poole  were directly involved with the fraudulent activity in Davis office, according to the federal investigators.

Barrett-Johnson, Bell-Johnson and Johnson, Jr. were also arrested on Friday by U.S. Marshals in Greensboro.

The fraud scheme also involved one former HUD employee and at least two former employees of the Durham Housing Authority, indictment documents show.

The Housing Authority isnt part of Chatham County government and Davis was not a county employee, county spokeswoman Kara Dudley said in an email.

The Chatham County Housing Authoritys mission in providing assistance for affordable and safe housing to residents of Chatham County fills a critical need, Dudley said. We trust that the Authority will continue this important work while these internal issues are resolved.

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The N&O reached out to Karen Howard, the chair of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners, which appoints members to the Housing Authoritys board, but did not receive a response Monday evening.

Davis is still listed as the housing authoritys executive director on county websites.

How prosecutors say the fraud worked

As executive director, Davis has the authority to select winning bids for various housing authority services, such as lawn care, facility cleaning and training for HUDs Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8.

Federal investigators say she knowingly paid people who included at least 13 friends and relatives for fraudulent contracts, for which she received a cut of the money.

The federal investigation went as far back as the fall of 2021 when federal officials first reached Davis and her associates with inquiries.

Davis instructed her co-conspirators to mislead or lie to investigators, prosecutors say.

In one instance, prosecutors say, Davis texted an unnamed co-conspirator the message You can tell them Im the big fat aunt you dont (expletive) with.

From January 2016 until April 2020, the Chatham County Housing Authority paid out over $200,000 for fraudulent small purchase contract work, according to the 32-page indictment.

Contract work for services is considered small purchase if it is between $2,000 and $100,000, according to HUD regulations.

One of the contracts cited in the indictment was to Bell-Johnson  a relative of Davis  who was paid roughly $84,000 by the Housing Authority between 2016 and 2020 for services that included language translation services and inputting information into CCHAs document management system.

Another fraudulent contract went to Johnson Jr., who was awarded various contracts for services that included premises inspection for the voucher program. He is also a relative of Davis.

Another co-conspirator was former HUD employee Brunson-Poole, named as a friend of Davis. Brunson-Pooles job included being a portfolio management specialist. She was aware that providing paid services to a public housing authority like Chathams could only be done through a conflict waiver from HUD, which was not done, prosecutors allege.

Known and unknown co-conspirators would generate false bid proposals for contracts using peoples stolen identities and the company letterheads of those people to compete against the proposals of Davis family and friends, in order to feign legitimacy.

Another 14 people are included as unindicted co-conspirators in the documents.

Davis previously worked at the Durham Housing Authority and the Gaston County Housing Authority.
ABC News

A Minnesota man has died after being attacked by dogs he was watching for a family member, police said. Officers secured a garage door and began rendering aid to the victim, who "had most of his clothing ripped off and had extensive bites on most of his body," the Brooklyn Center Police Department said in a statement. The victim did not own the dogs -- identified by police as American pit bull terriers -- but had been taking care of them at his home for a family member, police said.
Police are investigating a shooting that injured a child Sunday night in west Fort Worth.

The victim, whose age has not been released, told officers he was playing outside at an apartment complex on Las Vegas Trail when he heard a gunshot and was struck in his left calf. The victim arrived by private vehicle at Cook Childrens Medical Center.

West Division officers were called to the hospital to speak to the victim about 5:40 p.m.

The victim told police that the shooting occurred at the Villas at Sierra Vista Apartments, at 2013 Las Vegas Trail. He said did not see the shooter or from where the gunfire originated.

Officers went to the apartment complex to investigate. The gun violence unit is handling the investigation.
ChatGPT has become the biggest talking point in tech. (Getty)

Children will be allowed to use content generated by the AI chatbot ChatGPT in essays, the International Baccalaureate (IB) has said.

The Swiss education nonprofit, which offers alternative qualifications to A-levels, has said that children will be able to use ChatGPT output, but will have to be clear when doing so.

The organisation also said that in response to technology such as ChatGPT, less emphasis would be placed on essays going forward.

Matt Glanville, the IBs head of assessment principles and practice told The Times: The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet.

Read more: Melting snow in Himalayas drives growth of green sea slime visible from space

As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography.

Glanville said that in future, qualifications would focus on essay-writing less due to the disruption of ChatGPT and other tools like it.

But due to the nature of ChatGPT and many authors' failure to disclose they have used it, it is nearly impossible to get a full accounting of how many e-books may be written by artificial intelligence (AI).

ChatGPT's emergence has already ruffled some of the biggest technology firms, prompting Alphabet and Microsoft to hastily debut new functions in Google and Bing, respectively, that incorporate AI.

Read more: A 1988 warning about climate change was mostly right

The rapid consumer adoption of ChatGPT has spurred frenzied activity in tech circles as investors pour money into AI-focused startups and given technology firms new purpose amid the gloom of massive layoffs.

There are concerns over authenticity, because ChatGPT learns how to write by scanning millions of pages of existing text.

An experiment with AI by CNET resulted in multiple corrections and apparent plagiarism before the tech news site suspended its use.

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Glanville said, Essay writing is, however, being profoundly challenged by the rise of new technology and theres no doubt that it will have much less prominence in the future.

When AI can essentially write an essay at the touch of a button, we need our pupils to master different skills, such as understanding if the essay is any good or if it has missed context, has used biased data or if it is lacking in creativity. These will be far more important skills than writing an essay, so the assessment tasks we set will need to reflect this.

Watch: How AI can increase productivity
China is accusing the U.S. of outright bullying over sanctions slapped down on Chinese companies for their involvement with Russia, with a foreign ministry spokesperson arguing the actions are for no reason.

While the U.S. has intensified its efforts to send weapons to one of the parties to the conflict, resulting in an endless war, it has frequently spread false information about Chinas supply of weapons to Russia, taking the opportunity to sanction Chinese companies for no reason. This is outright bullying and double standards, Mao Ning told reporters, as reported by The Associated Press.

The State Department is handing down sanctions on Chinese or China-based companies that the Biden administration says are aiding Moscow.

The move comes amid U.S. concern that China is considering moving to provide lethal aid to Russia in its war on Ukraine. The U.S. in turn has been aiding Kyiv in its defense since the start of the conflict.

Mao said the sanctions have no basis in international law or authorization from the Security Council, and are typical illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction.

We call on the US to reflect on its behavior, bear in mind what is good for the world, and do something that will actually help deescalate the situation and get peace talks going. The US also needs to stop spreading disinformation and withdraw the sanctions on Chinese companies, Mao said, according to a Foreign Ministry transcript, adding that China will take resolute countermeasures in response to the US sanctions.

Russias war on Ukraine crossed its one-year anniversary earlier this month, just after President Biden made a surprise trip to Kyiv to announce further aid and galvanize international backing against Russian aggression.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
BEIJING (Reuters) - China has always maintained communication with all sides in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, including Kyiv, a foreign ministry spokesperson told a regular news briefing on Monday.

Mao Ning was answering a question on Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskiy saying he would welcome talks with China.

In another question on Zelenskiy saying that he planned to speak to China President Xi Jinping, Mao said "China's position on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and very clear."

"The core is to call for peace and promote dialogue and promote a political solution to the crisis. We have always maintained communication with the sides involved including Ukraine," Mao said.

Zelenskiy said on Friday he plans to meet Xi but did not say when such a meeting might take place.

(Reporting by Martin Pollard; Writing by Bernard Orr; Beijing newsroom; Editing by Tom Hogue)
China is dismissing new reporting that the Department of Energy has concluded a lab leak was most likely behind the COVID-19 pandemic, with a foreign ministry spokesperson saying the issue should not be politicized.

Certain parties should stop rehashing the lab leak narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing, Mao Ning said at a regular press conference on Monday.

Mao said the tracing of the viruss origin is about science and should not be politicized and cited a 2021 World Health Organization-China joint study that concluded a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely.

The foreign ministry spokesperson stressed that the science-based, authoritative conclusion was accurately recorded in the missions report and has received extensive recognition from the international community.

The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times reported over the weekend that the Energy Department had determined with low confidence that a lab mishap was behind the outbreak, citing unspecified new intelligence.

The reported conclusion matches that of the FBI, but differs from four other agencies and the National Intelligence Council, which judge the virus developed from natural transmission with an infected animal, the Journal noted.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Sunday responded to the Journals report, saying the intelligence community holds a variety of views on the question of COVIDs origins and hasnt come up with a definitive answer on the question.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
 With 141 out of 193 votes, the UN General Assembly approved a resolution calling on Russia to immediately withdraw its troops from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.



Seven countries voted against the motion (Belarus, North Korea, Eritrea, Mali, Nicaragua, Russia, Syria), and 32 abstained (most notably  China, India, and South Africa). The document consolidates key points of the Ukrainian peace formula. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on national TV that the resolution contains harsh language regarding Russia's responsibility and the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine.





 On Friday morning, Feb. 24, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed to Ukrainians with an emotional speech on the anniversary of the full-scale invasion of Russia.



In his speech, he recalled the most heroic and tragic events of the year of the great war between Russia and Ukraine. The President also expressed his condolences to those who lost their loved ones and relatives due to the criminal actions of the Russian occupiers. NV republishes the full text of his speech, in English.





 NV provides a photo report of the February. Year. Invincibility event, which was broadcast online by the presidential office on Feb. 24.





 In an interview with the BBC, Zelenskyy reveals that he didnt believe the full-scale invasion would happen until the last moments, though he insists that Ukraine prepared for that eventuality regardless.





 The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published a position paper on the settlement of the war in Ukraine.



According to China, in order to stop the war, the world needs to abandon the Cold War mentality and respecting the legitimate security interests of all countries, cease hostilities, stop sanctions, maintain global supply chains, maintain nuclear safety, and resume direct negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.





Story continues

 The United States officially announced a new security assistance package for Ukraine on Feb. 24.



The package, which totals $2 billion, is being provided under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI). One year on, the commitment of the United States, together with some 50 countries who have rallied to rush urgently needed assistance to Ukraine, has only strengthened, the Department of Defense said in a press release.





 British musician Elton John has praised the courage and resistance of Ukrainians, and handed over another donation worth of $125,000 for Ukraine to the United24 presidential fundraising platform.



The funds will be used to purchase 10 biochemical blood analyzers for the treatment of patients with HIV. John noted that he made a promise to support Ukrainians back in 2007 while performing in Kyiv. "For me, I go back to the promise I made on that spring night: that I, and my foundation, would always do everything we could to fight Aids in Ukraine, John said.





 The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has announced the suspension of Russias membership.



FATF is a G7 initiative to combat transnational money laundering. According to the organization, The Russian Federations actions unacceptably run counter to the FATF core principles aiming to promote security, safety, and the integrity of the global financial system.





 Cafes and restaurants in Ukraine have experienced a 10% increase in customer flow since the start of the full-scale war.



According to a survey published by the Restorator Reve restaurateurs' group, this increase is the average country-wide, though individuals locations like Kyiv have seen a 15% drop in transactions, compared to the pre-war period. In Lviv, however, transactions grew by 25%.





 Poland has transferred the first four German-made Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine.



Today, as the first European country, I want to symbolically hand over to you, Volodymyr, the first four Polish Leopard 2 A4 tanks, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. These are tanks that, without a doubt, will perfectly complement the formation on the battlefield, and will account for themselves well.

 About one fifth of the previous staff numbers, or about 2,000 people, are still working at Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant.



The plant, the largest in Europe, was previously operated by 11,000 people prior to the full-scale war. The 2,000 remaining workers were forced to sign contracts with Russian state nuclear operator Rosatom, putting them at risk of violating Ukraines laws against collaboration, and are made to work 16-hour shifts  instead of the 6-hour shifts practiced by Ukraine.





 The World Bank has announced an additional $2.5 billion in grant financing for Ukraine.



The funds, provided by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will be transferred to the government after the World Bank's review of eligible expenditures. "The grant provides direct support to Ukraines budget under the World Banks Public Expenditures for Administrative Capacity Endurance in Ukraine (PEACE) Project, to maintain essential services and core government functions amid the on-going war," the statement said.





 The European Union adopted a tenth package of sanctions against Russia on the anniversary of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.



The sanctions are aimed in particular at Russian propaganda and those involved in the deportation of Ukrainian children and includes 121 individuals and legal entities in the EU's blacklists. They will be subject to "significant" import/export restrictions.





 A list of the sanctioned entities was provided by the EU.





 The days long read: How the Russians 're-educate' young Ukrainians



NV reveals the details of the brainwashing of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, and explains how these abductions constitute evidence of genocide.





 Dont miss: Kremlin pulls economic strings to influence Viktor Orbans regime in Hungary

NV explains the economic levers that Russia is pushing in Hungary in order to keep Viktor Urbans regime on its side in the EU.





 In our opinion: The red line was crossed. What signal did Biden send to Putin and what is Xi Jinping preparing?



Political scientist Volodymyr Fesenko discusses U.S. President Joe Bidens visit to Kyiv, and how the visit would be interpreted in China.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
FILE PHOTO: Tesla CEO Elon Musk and his security detail depart the companyas local office in Washington, U.S. January 27, 2023. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo - JONATHAN ERNST/REUTERS

China has threatened to block Elon Musks Starlink with a rival fleet of 13,000 satellites amid claims they pose a potential military threat and could spy on the Communist country.

A new academic paper published in the military-sponsored Journal of the Chinese Society of Command and Control suggested that lasers and microwaves should be used to shoot down Starlink satellites.

Starlinks Earth-orbiting satellites are currently in the process of being deployed to cover the entire planet.

The company says the network is intended to provide global internet connectivity, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

Yet the Chinese paper claimed that its true purpose is to provide military reconnaissance, seamless intelligence and even a missile early warning and kinetic energy interception network.

The report said: Although the US Space Exploration Corporation stated that the purpose of building the Starlink constellation is to provide space-based Internet services covering the world, the Starlink constellation has received strong support from the US military during the construction and deployment process.

The paper also hints that a Chinese-made rival to Starlink, known as GW, could be used in a land grab to keep Starlink out. GW will see 12,992 satellites launched into orbit as a direct commercial and military rival to Starlinks estimated 3,500 spacecraft, the paper says.

Neutralising Starlinks threat to China could involve using high-power microwaves or laser weapons to cause soft damage to the communications satellites, according to Professor Xu Can of the Chinese armys Space Engineering University in Beijing.

He said: Lasers, high-power microwaves, etc. can be used to damage the reconnaissance payloads that may be carried by the Starlink satellites, making them lose their reconnaissance capabilities.

Suggestions that the Chinese military should cause soft damage to block Starlink comes as the company appears increasingly unwilling to continue its support to Ukraine, whose military is heavily dependent upon Starlink.

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Earlier this month SpaceX, the company behind Starlink, accused Ukraine of weaponising the network, with company president Gwynne Shotwell saying: Ukrainians have leveraged it in ways that were unintentional and not part of any agreement.

Similarly, Mr Musk himself has said that SpaceX is preventing Ukraine from using Starlink to carry out long-range drone strikes.

Although Starlink terminals were rushed to Ukraine in the early days after the Russian invasion last year, SpaceX has grown increasingly wary of their use.

Mr Musk publicly complained about the cost of providing Ukraines military and civil society free access to the terminals, leading to the US government providing funding.

The service has been used to provide Wi-Fi access to civilians in Ukrainian cities, following a deliberate Russian policy of destroying mobile phone masts and data centres to cut off Ukraines internet access from the outside world.
Kyrylo Budanov

Budanov said he relies on facts and sees no confirmation from Western officials about China's plans. He also stressed that basically, the only country that actually transfers weapons to Russia is Iran.

Read also: Spy chief Budanov says conflict between Shoigu and Prigozhin plays into Ukraine's hands

We had intel that something was sent away from North Korea, but we have no confirmation of this, Budanov said.

And there isnt a single case when we would have recorded that certain kind of weapon from North Korea was used here or there.

Read also: North Korea supplies Russias Wagner mercenaries, US says

He added that intelligence suggests Russia is trying to acquire any kind of available weapons from any country that is able to provide those. Budanov says that previously Russias close ally, Serbia, refused to transfer weapons and the Kremlin is now trying to get them from Myanmar.

Read also: Lukashenko to meet with Xi Jinping to help Russia and China circumvent sanctions, reports ISW

On Feb. 25, CBS News reported that according to the CIA, China is considering supplying lethal weapons to Russia, with a focus on combat drones.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
By Josh Ye

HONG KONG (Reuters) -Chinese internet giant Tencent Holdings has set up a development team to work on a ChatGPT-like chatbot, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

ChatGPT's uncanny ability to create cogent blocks of text instantly has sparked worldwide frenzied interest in the technology behind it called generative AI.

Although Microsoft-backed OpenAI does not allow users in China to create accounts to access the chatbot, the open AI models behind the programme are relatively accessible and are increasingly being incorporated into Chinese consumer technology applications.

A number of Tencent rivals including Alibaba Group and Baidu Inc have also announced they are working on their own offerings.

Tencent's product, to be called "HunyuanAide", will incorporate the company's AI training model named "Hunyuan", said the people who were not authorised to speak to media and declined to be identified. Asked for comment, Tencent reiterated a Feb.9 statement that it is conducting research on ChatGPT-tool technology. The news comes after China's Ministry of Science and Technology said on Friday it saw the potential of ChatGPT-like tech and would be pushing for the integration of artificial intelligence into Chinese society and the economy.

According to the South China Morning Post, Tencent's Hunyuan AI model in November achieved a record-high score on the Chinese Language Understanding Evaluation (CLUE) test - a set of tasks used to assess a computer's ability to understand and respond to Chinese text.

That also marked the first time an AI model has scored better than humans on CLUE since the test was established three years ago.

Local media outlet 36kr first reported the establishment of the "HunyuanAide" team.

(Reporting by Josh Ye; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
Christina Applegate attended the SAG Awards last night after hinting it could be her last red carpet appearance as an actor due to multiple sclerosis. (Getty Images)

Christina Applegate made a poignant appearance at the 2023 SAG Awards (Screen Actors Guild Awards) arriving at the event with a cane that read: FU MS after revealing she is living with multiple sclerosis (MS).

On Sunday 26 February, the Dead to Me star, 51, attended the 29th annual awards hand-in-hand with her daughter, Sadie Grace.

For the occasion, the mother-daughter duo matched, with Applegate wearing a black floor-length velvet tuxedo dress with oversized satin lapels, while her daughter also wore a black suit, which she paired with a black beret.

The Bad Moms actor completed her look with a black cane, which she accessorised with white stickers, including one that read: FU MS.

It was the star's first red carpet appearance since hinting that she could be retiring from acting due to her ongoing condition.

Read more: Dame Judi Dench says deteriorating eyesight makes it 'impossible' to read scripts  what is macular disease?

Applegate arrived at the event with her daughter and a cane which read: 'FU MS'. (Getty Images)

Applegate originally shared news of her diagnosis in August 2021 via Twitter, but has since spoken openly about her struggles with the autoimmune condition.

Earlier this month, she told the Los Angeles Times that it would likely be her "last awards show as an actor probably" due to her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis, adding "so. it's kind of a big deal".

She also explained that she'll likely be scaling back her acting, saying: "Right now, I couldnt imagine getting up at 5am and spending 12 to 14 hours on a set; I dont have that in me at this moment."

Last year, Applegate discussed how her life had been impacted since her diagnosis, explaining she had seen a 40lb weight gain and now struggles to walk without the support of a cane.

The NHS says the lifelong condition MS can affect the brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.

Applegate also used a cane when she attended the Critics Choice Awards last month. (Getty Images)

In a recent interview, Applegate revealed how production on the final season of Dead To Me paused for five months following her diagnosis and she went on to share some of the impacts her illness caused when filming resumed.

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"This is the first time anyone's going to see me the way I am," she told The New York Times. "I put on 40 pounds; I can't walk without a cane. I want people to know that I am very aware of all of that."

The Don't Tell Mom The Babysitter's Dead star also revealed how she wished she had paid attention more to the signs she might have the condition in the years leading up to her official diagnosis, including a tingling and numbness in her extremities.

Read more: What is multiple sclerosis? Selma Blair reveals 'incurable' MS diagnosis

The actor says she was determined to finish filming of Dead to Me, pictured in January 2020. (Getty Images)

Applegate isn't the only celebrity to share her experiences of living with the condition, fellow actor Selma Blair has also discussed how her life has been affected by the disease, which she was diagnosed with in August 2018.

She has also regularly appeared on the red carpet with a cane including at the Oscars, where she brandished a diamond-encrusted cane.

Speaking about when she was first diagnosed after years of struggling to understand her condition, Blair said she had tears of relief.

I had tears. They werent tears of panic, they were tears of knowing that I now had to give in to a body that had loss of control and there was some relief in that.

Ever since my son was born, I was in an MS flare-up and didnt know, and I was giving it everything to seem normal.

And I was self-medicating when he wasnt with me. I was drinking. I was in pain. I wasnt always drinking, but there were times when I couldnt take it.

Watch: Christina Applegate hints at retirement from acting

What is multiple sclerosis?

MS is a lifelong autoimmune condition that affects the brain and the spinal cord, causing a wide range of symptoms that vary from person to person.

Depending on the severity, MS can be debilitating, leading to problems with vision, balance and movement.

The MS Society estimates there are over 130,000 people with MS in the UK, and that nearly 7,000 people are newly diagnosed each year.

While it is most commonly diagnosed in people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, it can develop at any age and is more common in women than men.

As well as Christina Applegate, other celebrities living with the condition include Jack Osbourne and Selma Blair, who was diagnosed in August 2018.

Read more: Dementia signs and symptoms as Bruce Willis diagnosed with the condition

Symptoms of MS

The symptoms of MS vary widely for each sufferer and can affect any part of the body.

The main symptoms include:

fatigue

difficulty walking

vision problems, such as blurred vision

problems controlling the bladder

numbness or tingling in different parts of the body

muscle stiffness and spasms

problems with balance and co-ordination

problems with thinking, learning and planning

If you're worried you might have signs of MS, you should see your GP.

Remember, however, that your symptoms could have many other possible causes, so they're not necessarily a sign of MS.

If your doctor suspects you could have MS, you'll be referred to a specialist in conditions of the nervous system (a neurologist).

Selma Blair has also opened up about living with multiple sclerosis, pictured in October 2022. (Getty Images)

Read more: Early menopause may increase dementia risk and other things you need to know

Treatment of MS

While there is no cure for the condition, MS can be treated and managed with various treatments, which may include:

treating relapses with short courses of steroid medicine to speed up recovery

specific treatments for individual MS symptoms

treatment to reduce the number of relapses using medicines called disease-modifying therapies

For more help and information

There are two main MS charities in the UK, which can offer support and advice:

There's also the shift.ms website, an online community for younger people affected by MS.
Christina Applegate had a message for multiple sclerosis on Sunday: FU.

The Dead To Me star ruled the SAG Awards red carpet on Sunday night in an elegant, custom-made silk velvet tuxedo gown, designed by Christian Siriano.

Applegate also carried a custom black walking stick that Neo Walk creator Lyndsay Watterson said was adorned with the unsubtle message of #FUMS .

We are so proud to work with this gorgeous lady. Proud to call her my friend, Watterson, who designs her companys canes, wrote on Neo Walks Instagram on Monday alongside a photo of Applegate and her daughter, Sadie Grace LeNoble, who also was dressed in a custom Siriano look.

We will be working closely with Christina to support MS charities, keep watching for what we do next, Watterson added. Remember #FUMS.

Christina Applegate and Sadie Grace LeNoble at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Feb. 26 in Los Angeles.

Christina Applegate and Sadie Grace LeNoble at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Feb. 26 in Los Angeles.

Applegate has spoken about her love of Neo Walks sticks before, showing off the brands products ahead of her Hollywood Walk Of Fame ceremony in November 2022. Her Twitter bio reads: Lady with a cool cane

I have a very important ceremony coming up. This will be my first time out since diagnosed with MS, Applegate wrote on Twitter at the time.

Walking sticks are now part of my new normal. Thank you @neowalksticks for these beauties, Applegate added. Stay tuned to see which ones make the cut for a week of stuff.

I have a very important ceremony coming up. This will be my first time out since diagnosed with MS. Walking sticks are now part of my new normal. Thank you @neowalksticks for these beauties. Stay tuned to see which ones make the cut for a week of stuff. pic.twitter.com/O543p1G4vS  christina applegate (@1capplegate) October 27, 2022

While at the time Applegate said she was using walking sticks that had FU MS stickers, she wasnt sure it was appropriate for fancy events.

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She ended up changing her tune, and showed off a manicure with her nails spelling out FUMS for the ceremony, which marked the actors first public appearance since announcing her diagnosis in 2021.

Applegate shows off her manicure.

Applegate shows off her manicure.

Applegate first opened up about her multiple sclerosis publicly in August 2021.

She recently told the Los Angeles Times that this years SAG Awards would be a big deal for her, as she was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her work on Netflixs hit show, Dead to Me.

The Anchorman actor said that the ceremony could mark her last awards show as an actor.

Right now, I couldnt imagine getting up at 5 a.m. and spending 12 to 14 hours on a set; I dont have that in me at this moment, she said.

Though Applegate did not win in her category on Sunday, she enthusiastically cheered fellow actor Jean Smart, who missed the SAG Awards due to a medical procedure, for her win for Hacks.

Related...
CIA Director William Burns at the Central Intelligence Agency headquarters in Langley, Va., July 8, 2022. AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File

The CIA's director said Russia and Iran's partnership is growing in a "very dangerous direction."

William Burns said Russia was likely offering Iran help with its missile program in exchange for military aid.

Russia has been accused of using Iran-made drones on strikes on civilian targets in Ukraine.

Russia is likely offering Iran help with its advanced missile program in exchange for military aid for its war in Ukraine, the director of the Central Intelligence Agency said on Sunday.

William Burns was speaking on CBS' "Face the Nation," where he noted that Iran had given weapons to Russia that were subsequently used in Ukraine, including in incidents where civilian infrastructure was targeted.

He said that the relationship now appeared to be developing further.

"What we also see are signs that  Russia is proposing to help the Iranians on their missile program and also at least considering the possibility of providing fighter aircraft to Iran as well," he said.

National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby said on Friday that US officials believe that Russia may be planning to give Iran military jets after Iran sent much-needed artillery rounds to Russia.

Firefighters after a drone struck buildings in Kyiv, Ukraine, October 17, 2022. AP Photo/Roman Hrytsyna

Iran has been building up its missile arsenal for years, including long-range and ballistic missiles.

While the US has sought to limit Iran's missile program through sanctions, it said in 2019 that Iran had managed to build the "largest missile force in the Middle East."

The war in Ukraine could have inadvertently helped its cause.

Burns said that the collaboration between Iran and Russia is "moving at a pretty fast clip in a very dangerous direction right now."

A composite image showing an Iranian drone in the sky and the aftermath of its strike on Kyiv on October 17, 2022. YASUYOSHI CHIBA/AFP via Getty Images; Insider

"We know that the Iranians have already provided hundreds of armed drones to the Russians, which they're using to inflict pain on Ukrainian civilians and Ukrainian civilian infrastructure," he said.

Russia started to using Iran-made "kamikaze" drones in Ukraine in October, as part of a new playbook that targeted power distribution and other critical infrastructure far from the front lines.

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The drones are called "kamikaze" because they explode when they crash into their target, inflicting considerable damage.

Russia has turned to isolated nations for support as it faces global backlash and sanctions for its invasion of Ukraine. Alongside Iran, this includes North Korea, according to the White House.

The US and NATO have also said they see evidence that China may be planning to give Russia weapons.

Burns also said that Iran's nuclear enrichment program was more advanced than previously known, describing it as "advanced very far to the point where it would only be a matter of weeks before they can enrich to 90%, if they chose to cross that line."

He said the US does not believe that Iran had resumed its efforts to make nuclear weapons, which it stopped in 2003, but that it was advancing its ability to enrich uranium, which could then be used to make nuclear weapons if Iran chose to do so.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A sunken boat reemerges in September 2022 in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Nevada, after unprecedented drought. (David McNew/Getty Images)

Much of the Northern Hemisphere is struggling with drought or the threat of drought, as Europe experiences an unusually warm, precipitation-free winter and swaths of the American West remain mired in an epic megadrought.

But its not just those pockets feeling the pain in the U.S. Most of the Western United States is in some form of drought, with areas of extreme drought concentrated in the Great Plains and Texas. A 23-year megadrought has left the Southwest at the driest it is estimated to have ever been in 1,200 years, based on tree-ring data.

Thats very bad news for Texas cotton farmers. The New York Times recently reported that 2022 was a disaster for upland cotton in Texas, leading to short supplies and high prices of tampons and cloth diapers, among other products. In the biggest loss on record, Texas farmers abandoned 74 percent of their planted crops  nearly six million acres  because of heat and parched soil, hallmarks of a megadrought made worse by climate change, the Times noted.

Even recent heavy storms in California havent brought the state out of drought, because the precipitation deficit is so big.

A car drives through a flooded road in Gilroy, Calif., in January. (Michael Ho Wai Lee/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

I want to be clear that these storms  and the likely rain and snow we may get over the next few weeks  did not, nor will they fully, end the drought, at least not yet, Yana Garcia, secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency, said last Wednesday. Were in better shape than we were two months ago, but were not out of the woods.

Just days earlier, Lake Powell, the second-largest U.S. reservoir, dropped to a new record low. Powell is created by a Colorado River dam along the Arizona-Utah border, and if the reservoir goes much lower, experts warn, water wont be able to pass through it. Millions of people who rely on the Colorado would then lose access to their water supply.

If you cant get water out of the dam, it means everyone downstream doesnt get water, Brad Udall, a water and climate scientist at Colorado State University, told USA Today. "That includes agriculture, cities like Los Angeles, San Diego and Phoenix." The hydroelectric power plant for which the dam was constructed would also cease to function.

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When the current 23-year megadrought plaguing the American West began, Lake Powell and Lake Mead  the largest U.S. reservoir, also on the Colorado  were 95% full. Now, theyre one-quarter full, according to Udall.

Logs and driftwood on Sept. 8, 2022, near Hite, Utah, remain where they settled when Lake Powell was at its highest-ever water level. (David McNew/Getty Images)

In order to prevent what one California official calls a doomsday scenario, the Department of the Interior will have to impose reductions in water allotments for downriver users.

Scientists say that the underlying conditions  growing demand for water and naturally occurring periodic drought  are being exacerbated by climate change. Warmer temperatures cause more water to evaporate, making both droughts and heavy precipitation more extreme. Climate change makes droughts more frequent, longer, and more severe, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

"Its unfortunate that the largely natural occurrence of a drought has coincided with this increasing warming due to greenhouse gases," Flavio Lehner, a professor of atmospheric sciences at Cornell University, said. "That has brought everything to a head much earlier than people thought it would."

In Europe, an unusually warm, dry winter has forced ski resorts in the Alps to close for lack of snow, and left the canals of Venice running dry in Italy. Some of the citys iconic gondolas are stuck in the mud. Europe experienced its third-warmest January on record, France has seen a record dry spell of 31 days without rain, and the Alps have received less than half their normal snowfall so far this winter.

Last Wednesday, Britains National Drought Group warned that one hot, dry spell would return England to the severe drought conditions it endured last summer.

Low water levels at Baitings Reservoir on Aug. 12, 2022, reveal an ancient packhorse bridge amid a heatwave in the U.K. at Ripponden, West Yorkshire. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

The threat goes beyond tourism: A study published last month by researchers from Graz University of Technology in Austria warned that Europes drinking water supply has become very precarious. Much of Europe has been in a drought since 2018, and a review of satellite data of groundwater confirmed acute shortages in parts of France, Italy and Germany.

A few years ago, I would never have imagined that water would be a problem here in Europe, Torsten Mayer-Gurr, one of the researchers, said.

This development follows a summer of record-breaking heat waves and droughts that left thousands dead across the continent, as well as the worst wildfire season on record. Europes hot, dry summer coincided with acute droughts in the U.S.  even in normally wet regions like the Northeast  and in Asia. The dropping water levels revealed buried artifacts, including the wreckage of a German World War II warship in Serbia, dead bodies in Lake Mead and ancient Buddhist statues in Chinas Yangtze River.

Last summers drought across the Northern Hemisphere was made 20 times more likely by climate change, according to an October 2022 study by World Weather Attribution, a group of international scientists who explore the link between global warming and the increasingly frequent and severe extreme weather events it causes.

An emaciated cow stands at the bottom of a water pan that has been dried up for 4 months, in Iresteno, a town bordering Ethiopia, on Sept. 1, 2022. (Yasuyoshi Chiba/AFP via Getty Images)

The worst impacts of ongoing drought are being felt in the Horn of Africa, where millions of residents in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia are contending with food insecurity due to poor harvests. The region faces a forecast of a sixth consecutive low rainy season this spring.

Meanwhile, its summer in the Southern Hemisphere, and crop yields are being diminished by drought there as well. Argentina is a leading exporter of soy and corn, but its production is being drastically reduced this year as extremely high temperatures exacerbate a drought.

Climate scientists say that adaptation to climate change-related droughts is essential, including reducing water usage and building new infrastructure, like aquifers, to better manage water resources.
At least half a dozen current and prospective Republican presidential hopefuls are set to speak at the Club for Growths annual donor retreat this week, a list that includes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley  but not former President Trump.

In additional to DeSantis and Haley, the Club will also host former Vice President Mike Pence, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, according to a person familiar with the plans. All of these are seen as possible contenders for the GOPs 2024 presidential nod.

Also speaking at the gathering are Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), who has ruled out a presidential run, and newly minted White House hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy, a wealthy entrepreneur and conservative activist who announced a campaign for the Republican nomination last week.

Two other potential White House candidates, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, were invited to speak at the donor retreat, but are unable to attend, the person said.

The speaking roster means that Trump will be the only already-declared 2024 hopeful not in attendance at the retreat, which is set to take place from Thursday to Saturday in Palm Beach, Fla.

The retreat also coincides with the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) near Washington, D.C. Several current and potential presidential hopefuls  including Trump, Haley, Pompeo and Ramaswamy  are set to address that gathering this week.

While the retreat will be a notably smaller and more exclusive affair than CPAC, its also seen as a prime opportunity for current and would-be candidates to introduce themselves to donors.

Still, Trumps omission from the speaker list at the Clubs annual donors retreat underscores his isolation from a group that he once worked closely with  and one that remains influential in conservative politics.

The relationship between Trump and the Club soured last year, and he and the Club backed opposing candidates in the GOP Senate primary in Ohio. Trumps decision to rescind his endorsement of former Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Ala.) in Alabamas Republican Senate primary also caused friction between him and the Club, which continued to stand behind Brooks.

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The Club also released a batch of polling in November, just ahead of Trumps announcement that he would seek the White House again in 2024, showing DeSantis beating the former president among Republican voters in Iowa and New Hampshire, the two states that will kick off the GOPs presidential nominating contest next year.

Speaking to reporters earlier this month, the Clubs president, David McIntosh, said that while his group would still back Trump if the former president emerges as the GOP nominee, he was concerned about Trumps prospects of winning a general election in 2024.

I worry when we get into a general election that if Trumps the nominee, theyre going to be able to take a chunk of Republican votes and deny them because theyre just solidly committed not to vote for Trump, McIntosh said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Rod Nickel

LUCH, Ukraine (Reuters) - For a Ukrainian village devastated by war, Cold War bunkers built to withstand a nuclear attack that never happened have proven a lifeline for residents who have spent much of the past year living in them.

Luch, a southern village, about 40 km (25 miles) northwest of Kherson, was hammered by Russian fire almost from the start of the war when it ended up close to the frontlines.

There, Svitlana Gynzhul is one of five people who reside in a concrete-and-turf bunker, accessed via a door on the side of a grassy mound that leads to a steep, dingy staircase underground.

Starting in March and through the autumn, she used the village's strategic location to organize spying on Russian troop movements when soldiers were as close as 2 km away.

Some younger villagers mounted a cell communications tower on the village's outskirts to train their binoculars on the Russians from a high vantage point. Gynzhul said she passed the reports to Ukrainian armed forces. Reuters could not independently verify her account.

Now she cares for the few neighbors who have remained in Luch.

The need to take shelter in a bunker built 70 years ago for a different threat underlines the desperate measures many Ukrainians have employed in the last year to stay alive.

In April, with their village caught between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Gynzhul, her husband Dmytro and their son moved into a warehouse basement, just before their second-storey apartment was shelled.

Then in August, they moved into one of Luch's two abandoned Soviet-era nuclear bomb shelters, built in the 1950s for soldiers who at the time trained in Luch.

The heavy metal doors, bunk beds and gas masks had long been stolen.

"Nobody thought it would be useful," said Gynzhul, 55.

Her group has made it their refuge, outlasting the Russian army's occupation of parts of Kherson region. Ukrainian soldiers pushed the Russians south away from Luch last autumn and by early November had recaptured Kherson city.

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By that time, Luch was devastated and most homes destroyed, with roofs caved in, windows missing and rocket holes punched into walls.

UNDERGROUND

The village, population 935 before the invasion, is now home to around 50 people. Up to 30 of them live underground in Luch's two nuclear shelters and a basement.

Gynzhul and the others in her bunker live off humanitarian aid and her 4,000 hryvnia ($109) per month salary from her administrative job in the village.

After the Russians retreated, the bunker's residents found an electrician to connect it to power lines. A wood stove heats the two-room bunker, furnished with a double bed and three single beds lined side-by-side.

A generator allows them to pump water. Rugs on the floor and colorful blankets pinned to the walls add comforting touches.

War has exacted a heavy price for some survivors.

Bunker resident Iryna Sichkar said her son was captured early in the war in Mariupol. She does not know if he is alive.

"I only pray my son will come home," she said, in tears.

A Russian strike killed two people in Luch and wounded eight, including Gynzhul, when shrapnel passed through her foot.

Her son is now preparing for deployment to Bakhmut, scene of some of the war's bloodiest battles.

Some families didn't feel safe underground, where shelling sent vibrations through the bunker.

Irina and Viktor Okhnal lived there from March until April, when they left with their two children to live with her parents in Chernivtsi region 800 km northwest of Luch.

The couple and son Slavik, 6, returned to Luch in November, where they are back among friends. Slavik is the only child left in the village.

(Additional reporting by Lisi Niesner; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Janet Lawrence)
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With winter storms continuing to sweep through the Sacramento region, advocates say inmates in the countys jails are now living in frigid conditions with only short-sleeve T-shirts and a lack of warm clothing.

In a letter the Prison Law Office sent to Sacramento County Feb. 6, law office staff attorney Patrick Booth complained about the type and amount of clothing provided to inmates by the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office.

First, people in the jails are issued only one pair of clothes, which does not include any long-sleeve T-shirt, jacket, sweatshirt, or thermal clothing, Booth wrote. People are provided only one short-sleeve T-shirt, one pair of pants, one pair of socks, and one or two pairs of underwear.

As a result, those incarcerated at the Main Jail downtown and Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center near Elk Grove report being extremely cold, Booth wrote, adding that inmates frequently refuse the chance to go outside for recreation because it is too cold in only short-sleeve shirts.

People are forced to choose between extended periods of isolation in their cells or being outside on a cold, concrete recreation yard with no sweatshirt, no long-sleeve shirt, and no undershirt, Booth wrote, adding that the law office may pursue the matter in federal court where conditions in the jails for some disabled inmates are governed by a consent decree.

Prison Law Office Legal Director Margot Mendelson said in an email to The Sacramento Bee that Sheriff Jim Cooper categorically denied the request to provide sweatshirts or other weather-appropriate clothing to people in the jails.

The Sheriffs Office declined to comment Monday, but the county responded in a letter Friday, writing that the notion of issuing cold-weather gear to inmates is unwarranted and that temperatures in the downtown jail are monitored and measured at 67.5 degrees or above.

SSO recognizes that on a few days per year, the temperature outside the facilities may not be warm enough for extended outdoor recreation, said the letter from Deputy County Counsel Rick Heyer, which the law office provided to The Bee. However, these are a relative few days in the year.

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In fact, the average daily temperature in Sacramento is 54 in January and above 60 for the rest of the year. ... It is the position of SSO that the relative few days per year of unseasonably cold weather do not necessitate the expenditure of providing every inmate in the custody of SSO cold weather garments as part of their standard clothing issue.

SSO will continue to provide such clothing to inmates when it is medically necessary.

Of course, most of California is not currently experiencing average weather conditions.

Mendelson noted during a telephone interview Monday that the temperature in Sacramento was in the upper 30s, a temperature that inhibits inmates from venturing outside for exercise in T-shirts.

This is an extremely serious problem in the Sacramento County jails in which people spend days on end in their cells, she said. They say its not necessary. Its shocking.

I find this beyond the pale in terms of callousness and cruelty. Its 38 degrees right now in Sacramento. Nobody goes outside right now in a T-shirt in Sacramento.

In the countys response, Heyer noted that most areas of the jails are temperature controlled and that temperature readings at the main jail indicated that all floors have temperature of at least 67.5 (degrees), with some units where the temperature was measured at 70 degrees.

The county also said the Sheriffs Office has purchased additional T-shirts for inmates and that some temperature problems in the jails are caused by the inmates themselves.

Several factors can cause temperature fluctuations in the facilities, but the most significant is when inmates intentionally block their cells vent, the county wrote. This can cause an imbalance of airflow and temperature.

But Booth contends that there are widespread complaints about conditions in the jails, and that state prison inmates receive much more clothing than people held in Sacramento lockups.

When we visited the Main Jail on January 12, 2023, we heard dozens of reports throughout the facility, from both staff and incarcerated people, that people forego their outdoor recreation time because they are too cold to go outside in only a T-shirt, Booth wrote. For example, Deputy Conley, who works on 3 West, told us that many people are too cold to spend any amount of time in the outdoor recreation space, and he is even cold when working inside the building.

People in the jail who refuse outdoor time are not offered extra dayroom time to compensate for their lack of out-of-cell time. Instead, they merely receive less time out of their cell.

While county jail inmates are given only one set of clothing and no long-sleeve shirts, other jurisdictions provide more clothing, she said.

We do believe this is an outlier, Mendelson said. Yuba County right next door requires the issuance of sweatshirts, and the prison system requires the issuance of jackets, she said.

Her letter says state prisoners are issued far more gear: three pairs of jeans, three outer-shirts, four undershirts, six pairs of socks, four pairs of shorts, and one jacket.

Mendelson added that providing additional cold-weather clothing for the inmates could be paid for through the inmate welfare fund, which had a balance of more than $11 million last year and is funded through revenues from the inmate phone system and jail commissary.

The inmate welfare fund is designed for the sheriff to use it for the benefit, education and welfare of the inmates, according to the county.

A Bee review of the inmate fund last year found then-Sacramento Sheriff Scott Jones had used millions from the fund to pay for salaries, fencing, parking lot improvements, cameras and other expenses.
The ways college faculty think and feel about transfer students can hinder their success and contribute to education inequity. More generally, what professors and administrators think about students transferring between their colleges can provide a window into how faculty shape higher education in the United States.

College students have become extremely mobile, with about three out of every eight eventually transferring between schools. Nationally, over one quarter of new bachelors recipients began at a different college.

The most common type of transfer occurs between associate programs at community colleges and bachelors programs at four-year institutions  known as vertical transfers. Jobs increasingly require bachelors degrees, and 80% of community college students wish to obtain at least a bachelors, requiring a transfer. Still, six years later, only 11% have attained one.

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Many challenges are associated with the transfer process, such as students having received inadequate academic preparation for their new colleges or bachelors programs being unwilling to accept their credits. Community colleges have a higher percentage of students from poor and racially/ethnically underrepresented groups than do bachelors colleges. Therefore, anything that makes it more difficult for a student to receive a bachelors degree by beginning their postsecondary education at a community college and then transferring disproportionately harms students from those groups, increasing higher education inequity.

In general, it is community college faculty who are responsible for academic preparation of transfer students and faculty at four-year colleges who make decisions about accepting credit for community college work. These two faculty bodies may see the value of those credits, and of the students themselves, very differently.

Despite the important roles that faculty play in transfer, research about them has been limited. We conducted a survey of 3,871 faculty at The City University of New Yorks 20 undergraduate colleges, which range in selectivity. There are about 20,000 internal transfer students per year.

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The survey included questions concerning faculty transfer knowledge and opinions. The results, some of which were presented in February at the annual conference of the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students, show both similarities and differences among faculty at community, selective bachelors and most selective bachelors colleges.

Diagram Description automatically generated

One of the survey goals was to investigate how much faculty know about transfer. Gaps in their knowledge could inhibit their ability to facilitate successful transfer.

A telling question in this regard was, Students who transfer after having received an associates degree have more of their credits transferred to bachelors degree programs than students who transfer without an associates degree. The correct answer is No. However, about half of the community college faculty, one-quarter of selective bachelors college faculty and one-fifth of the most selective bachelors college faculty said yes.

Thus, many community college faculty may be advising students not to transfer until they receive their associates degrees because more of their credits will transfer, but that is incorrect. In fact, students who wait may take advanced courses whose credits will not transfer.

The survey also asked faculty to indicate what aspects of the transfer process are challenging for students. A third or more of respondents in each of the three groups named the amount of time it takes for the new college to tell transfer students whether and how many of their credits will be accepted, being admitted to a major at the new college and getting good grades at the new college. Over 50% cited getting community college credits applied to bachelors degree requirements.

However, the bachelors college faculty thought the timing on acceptance of credits and good grades were more problematic than did the community college faculty, whereas the community college faculty showed more concern about students being admitted to their desired majors.

The bachelors college faculty were more likely to feel that students learn more in a course at a four-year college than in a course of the same name as a community college. Consistent with that finding, the bachelors college faculty were also more likely to say students should retake classes in their intended major after transfer.

Figure 2

Comparisons of Faculty Responses for Community Colleges, Selective Bachelors Colleges, and Most Selective Bachelors Colleges

Chart, bar chart Description automatically generated

As to whether the CUNY central office should do more to facilitate transfer between colleges, there were large differences in the answers of the various faculty groups. Two-thirds of the community college faculty, but only about one-third of the most selective bachelors college faculty, said yes. Differences between community and bachelors faculty were often larger when the most selective college faculty were being considered.

These findings and other results support these conclusions:

Faculty are often not knowledgeable about basic transfer facts;



Community and bachelors college faculty differ in their views of challenges to the transfer process  community college faculty tend to have relatively more concern about how students are treated after transfer, whereas bachelors faculty have more concern about students academic preparation prior to transfer;



Community college faculty are more likely to want the central office to intervene.

The third conclusion is not surprising, given that bachelors colleges are in the drivers seat  they decide whether credits, and students, will be accepted. Both sides have legitimate concerns, but they do not have equal power. It may take intervention from a higher authority for community college facultys views to be considered.

Given that different groups of faculty have different views about transfer, it is no surprise that it can be difficult for them to work together across institutions to smooth transfer paths. It is also not a surprise, given our results, that potential transfer students are sometimes given bad advice, and that bachelors college faculty sometimes refuse to accept degree-applicable credits from community colleges.

To facilitate transfer and higher education equity, what is needed is substantial training for faculty and/or intervention by a higher authority  a senior administrator or, as has occurred in California, the legislature. If higher education wishes to maintain autonomy and promote equity, it would be wise for its leadership to prioritize the facilitation of vertical transfer.

Vita Rabinowitz, former interim chancellor of The City University of New York, contributed to the research and to the writing of this essay.

Yoshiko Oka, a quantitative analyst in the Office of Policy Research at the City University of New York, contributed to the research and to the writing of this essay.
A 33-year-old man who was arrested over the weekend after a five-hour search of Colleyville neighborhoods is a suspect in several crimes in the city, Colleyville police said Monday.

Police identified the suspect as Peirre Jerome McClendon Sr. His hometown is listed as DeSoto, according to Tarrant County jail records.

McClendon was arrested Saturday and accused of burglary of a vehicle and theft of a firearm on that day.

Police said Monday that McClendon also is accused of burglaries in the Colleyville Thornbury neighborhood that occurred the previous week.

On Saturday, police were first dispatched to the 5200 block of Montclair Drive in Colleyville at about 5:40 a.m. regarding a suspicious person who was walking around with a flashlight looking into vehicles, the department said in a news release. Officers did not find the suspect there.

At around 6:50 a.m. Saturday, dispatch received additional calls about a suspicious person walking in a neighbors yard in the 5200 block of Coventry Court and looking into cars, according to police.

The man was dressed in all black and had a backpack. This description closely matched a burglary suspect on security video from another Colleyville neighborhood the previous week.

Soon after officers responded to this area, a suspect matching the description was seen, by police, running through a vacant lot on Bluebonnet Drive and was reported jumping fences between homes in the Stonecrest Estates, Montclair Parc and Chelsea Park neighborhoods. Police secured a perimeter.

Officers found a discarded backpack in the area in which the suspect was seen running. The backpack contained ammunition, a pistol, and burglary tools, police said.

A Southlake police dog picked up a scent from the backpack. Just before noon a Southlake police officer and the dog found the suspect in the 5100 block of Camelot Drive, and the suspect was taken into custody with multiple officers present, according to police.

The Grapevine Police Department, Euless Police Department, Trophy Club Police Department, Hurst Police Department and Bedford Police Department also provided resources, additional officers, and drones to help apprehend the suspect.

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McClendon has been arraigned on charges of evading arrest or detention, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, burglary of a vehicle with two or more previous convictions and an enhanced charge of theft of a firearm.

In connection to the other crimes in Collevyille, McClendon faces charges of burglary of a habitation and five counts of burglary of a vehicle with two or more previous convictions.

More charges could be filed against him.

McClendon was in the Tarrant County on Monday with bond set at $42,500.
[Source]

A man from Colorado was sentenced to life in prison without parole for murdering his Filipino ex-wife.

On Feb. 21, Dane Kallungi, 39, was found guilty of first-degree murder of his ex-wife, Jepsy Amaga, 26, and for tampering with a deceased human body.

Amaga was reported missing by friends and family in March 2019. To date, police have not been able to locate her alive, nor have her remains been found.

The Colorado Springs Police Department Homicide/Assault Unit launched an investigation into Amagas disappearance on April 4, 2019.

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Kallungi, who was believed to have killed his wife and buried her body in a remote area of Teller County, fled to New Mexico two years later.

In June 2021, he was arrested in New Mexico and extradited back to Colorado to stand trial for Amagas murder.

According to court documents, Kallungi allegedly confessed to strangling his wife during a fight.

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In court, prosecutors played a video recording of Kallungis interrogation, where he is reportedly heard stating that it was not his intention to kill Amaga.

I did not mean to kill her, I just wanted her to stop cursing at me, he reportedly said on tape. I saw her suffering, I did not know what to do at first ... its eating me up for sure.

According to Amagas mother Margie, her daughter met Kallungi on an online dating site before moving to Colorado to marry him.

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In January 2019, the couples divorce was finalized.

Margie said the last day she spoke with her daughter was on March 20, 2019.

I just want to know if shes still alive or dead, Margie previously told 11 News. I dont know where she is, why shes gone.

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More from NextShark: Murder Charge Upgraded on Derek Chauvin, 3 Other Cops Involved Charged in George Floyds Death

While Philippine Honorary Consul in Colorado Donna Lavigne expressed relief regarding the recent verdict, she noted that Amagas case is not an isolated one.

I get a lot of calls from young Filipina women that have issues like domestic violence, something like that and these ladies, or these young women are mostly married to older men here in this state, Lavigne told ABS-CBN News.

Russcel Recelistino, 27, is another Filipino woman who was allegedly killed by her husband, Joseph Garza, 40, in their home in Fort Lupton, a city about two hours north of where Amaga lived.

Although Garza stood trial for murder earlier this month, the jury was deadlocked, resulting in a mistrial.

The DAs Office reminded Colorado residents who are experiencing domestic violence not to live in fear.

If you need help there are currently four domestic violence programs in Colorado Springs, three offering a hotline and one offering emergency shelter and hotline. Outside of this city and still nearby, you can also find help at ten domestic violence programs in places like Denver, Ft Collins, Pueblo, Canon City, and Castle Rock.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with domestic violence, please contact the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233. For a list of international helplines, visit www.befriends.org
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be challenging, and perhaps the most important challenge is finding the right employment when your military commitment ends.

Over the next year we will give examples of how military service can lead to rewarding careers in various industries. Along the way, we will give a shout-out to veterans who are making a difference in their new civilian jobs.

Today, Im taking a look at health care. Brown Medicine is a primary care practice with over 200 physicians across Rhode Island. It is affiliated with The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and employs most of their full-time faculty.

Brad Crough, analytics director, Brown Medicine

Brad Crough, director of analytics

Brad Crough takes raw health-care data from a variety of sources and transforms it into meaningful insights to make better decisions in patient care, research, and teaching.

Crough credits the military with preparing him for this job. I literally started in rocket science, using Patriot missiles to knock down incoming warheads. I sat in the desert for years and learned I had a passion to code.

The Army taught me its about people, and moving people to get things done. Plans dont always work  you still have to hit the curveballs in life. The Army instilled a level of discipline and patience that guides my actions to this day.

Born and raised in Connecticut, Crough attended Bryant College and joined the ROTC program. He graduated in 1998, becoming an Air Defense Artillery officer.

He served four years all over the world, then came back to the Connecticut National Guard to finish his service obligation. Assigned to an aviation unit as an administrator, he was deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003-04).

His job was to recover classified components from downed aircraft. Captain Crough earned the Bronze Star for combat action.

He resigned in 2008 and started work as a financial analyst for Blue Cross & Blue Shield. Brown Medicine hired him to do some contract work, and in 2011 he joined Brown Medicine full-time.

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Encouraged by his mentors to pursue education, he enrolled at Southern New Hampshire University for his MBA, earning that degree in 2015.

Brad met his wife at Bryant. She is from Smithfield, Brad explains. She supported my military journey for years, so moving back home was the right thing to do for her and our three children.

Mississippi Air Guardsman Michael Machost sits in an Army Lakota helicopter at the Oshkosh Airventure event in 2008. Machost now works for Brown Medicine.

Michael Machost, practice manager, pulmonary medicine

My job is to maintain the daily office operations and ensure the patient workflow for doctors is running smoothly, said Michael Machost.

Like Crough, Machost credits his military background with success in his new position. In August 2022 he retired as a senior master sergeant after 20 years in the Air Force.

The military taught me to time-manage appropriately, and always keep moving forward  making yourself better than you were yesterday.

Born and raised in Mississippi, he always wanted to serve, Both my grandfathers, stepfather, and one uncle served during a conflict and I knew that was for me.

Several family members also had a medical background, so he took that path. Working as a surgical aide at a Jackson hospital when 9/11 happened, Machost got serious about the military.

I joined the Air Guard because they offered a flying job evacuating patients: Aeromedical Evacuation Technician. I signed up in August 2002 and never regretted it.

After his return from Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF 2003), Captain Brad Crough received the Bronze Star for his role in recovering 18 crash-damaged helicopters in Iraq. The ceremony took place at a Connecticut Air National Guard facility in Groton

Machost went through LPN and EMT training, and went to flight school to become an air evac.

Although he was never a full-time guardsman, he took advantage of training opportunities and volunteer missions offered nationwide. He deployed for natural disasters such as Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. He was deployed to Ramstein, Germany in 2005 during the Iraq conflict.

In 2008 he earned a degree from Mississippi College. He relocated to Connecticut for family reasons and joined the Air Guard there.

Machost moved up the ranks into a superintendent of nursing services role.

He met his wife Kendall in Rhode Island. They have 5 children between them, ranging from 12-18 in age.

After moving to Tiverton in 2017, he continued to work as an LPN, and enrolled at UMass Dartmouth for his Master's in Health Administration. He juggled a full-time student load with work at a local medical practice, along with his Air Guard duties and parent/spouse responsibilities. He graduated in the spring of 2021; that achievement led to his hiring by Brown Medicine a few months later.

His advice to other veterans and service members: The amount of effort you put into your military career is what you will get out of it in return.

Echoing Croughs sentiments, he added, Our best laid plans have a high probability of not working, so have a contingency and be adaptable to the changes.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Attention Vietnam vets: Share your feelings about any aspect of your Vietnam experience: March 29 marks the 50th anniversary of the withdrawal of the last U.S. troops from Vietnam. The March 27 column will address your feelings about the war, then and now. Email me at veteranscolumn@providencejournal.com

Also: If you know any veterans or service members who deserve recognition for the work they are doing today in their civilian employment, please reach out as well.

To report the outcome of a previous activity, or to add a future event to our calendar, please email the details (including a contact name and phone number/email address) to veteranscolumn@providencejournal.com

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Veterans at Brown Medicine: Military skills help excel in healthcare
By Gopal Sharma

KATHMANDU (Reuters) -Splits within Nepal's communist-dominated ruling coalition plunged the Himalayan nation into crisis on Monday as a Marxist-Leninist party said it would withdraw support after the Maoist prime minister backed an opposition candidate for the presidency.

Nepal has had 11 governments since it abolished its 239-year-old monarchy in 2008 and became a republic. It is due to appoint its next president on March 9.

Current prime minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, a former Maoist guerrilla leader in the mountainous nation sandwiched between China and India, has held the post three times.

Elected in December, the prime minister - who still goes by his nom de guerre Prachanda - formed a seven-party coalition comprised of his own Maoist Centre party, the Communist Unified Marxist-Leninist (UML) party and five other smaller groups.

Last week, Prachanda infuriated the UML by pledging support for the opposition Nepali Congress party's presidential candidate, Ram Chandra Paudel.

Prachanda had earlier agreed to support a UML candidate for the presidency, according to politicians in the coalition.

Members of both houses of parliament and members of seven provincial assemblies will cast their votes on March 9 to elect the president - a largely ceremonial position, though it can play a key role during political crises.

Senior UML figure Bishnu Paudel, who serves as deputy prime minister in charge of finance, said he and all eight ministers of his party had submitted resignation letters to the prime minister as Prachanda failed to "honour the consensus" that was reached when forming the government.

"We'll also withdraw support to the coalition government," Paudel told Reuters after a party meeting.

Foreign affairs minister Bimala Rai Paudyal, who was asked on Sunday by Prachanda not to travel to Geneva to participate in the United Nations' human rights panel meeting, was also among those who quit.

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Four ministers, including a deputy prime minister from another party, also quit the government over the weekend due to the same issue.

Political analysts said Prachanda, whose party controls 32 seats in the 275-member parliament, must face a confidence vote within 30 days.

He is likely to win that vote with support from Congress - the largest single party in parliament - and form a new coalition that includes Congress and other smaller groups.

Prachanda has worked with Congress before, and political analysts say the Maoist leader is more comfortable with Congress than with the Marxist-Leninists.

(Reporting by Gopal Sharma; editing by Sudipto Ganguly, Simon Cameron-Moore and Hugh Lawson)
Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. Having said that, unprofitable companies are risky because they could potentially burn through all their cash and become distressed.

So, the natural question for DutaLand Berhad (KLSE:DUTALND) shareholders is whether they should be concerned by its rate of 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). We'll start by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves in order to calculate its cash runway.

See our latest analysis for DutaLand Berhad

How Long Is DutaLand Berhad's Cash Runway?

You can calculate a company's cash runway by dividing the amount of cash it has by the rate at which it is spending that cash. DutaLand Berhad has such a small amount of debt that we'll set it aside, and focus on the RM387m in cash it held at December 2022. In the last year, its cash burn was RM97m. So it had a cash runway of about 4.0 years from December 2022. There's no doubt that this is a reassuringly long runway. The image below shows how its cash balance has been changing over the last few years.

Is DutaLand Berhad's Revenue Growing?

Given that DutaLand Berhad actually had positive free cash flow last year, before burning cash this year, we'll focus on its operating revenue to get a measure of the business trajectory. Unfortunately, the last year has been a disappointment, with operating revenue dropping 24% during the period. In reality, this article only makes a short study of the company's growth data. You can take a look at how DutaLand Berhad has developed its business over time by checking this visualization of its revenue and earnings history.

Can DutaLand Berhad Raise More Cash Easily?

Since its revenue growth is moving in the wrong direction, DutaLand Berhad shareholders may wish to think ahead to when the company may need to raise more cash. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. We can compare a company's cash burn to its market capitalisation to get a sense for how many new shares a company would have to issue to fund one year's operations.

DutaLand Berhad has a market capitalisation of RM239m and burnt through RM97m last year, which is 41% of the company's market value. That's high expenditure relative to the value of the entire company, so if it does have to issue shares to fund more growth, that could end up really hurting shareholders returns (through significant dilution).

So, Should We Worry About DutaLand Berhad's Cash Burn?

Even though its cash burn relative to its market cap makes us a little nervous, we are compelled to mention that we thought DutaLand Berhad's cash runway was relatively promising. Cash burning companies are always on the riskier side of things, but after considering all of the factors discussed in this short piece, we're not too worried about its rate of cash burn. Taking a deeper dive, we've spotted 2 warning signs for DutaLand Berhad you should be aware of, and 1 of them is a bit unpleasant.

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.

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GENEVA (Reuters) - Democratic Republic of Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi said on Monday that a conflict with rebels in the east of the country could disrupt preparations for general elections scheduled for Dec. 20.

Congo's electoral commission started registering voters on Feb. 17 in North Kivu province, parts of which are occupied by the M23 rebel group, a Tutsi-led militia that has been waging an offensive against Congolese troops for almost a year.

The fighting has displaced hundreds of thousands of people, raising concerns about the state's ability to prepare for the parliamentary and presidential elections later this year.

"The persistence of the war in the east of our country risks jeopardising the electoral process, which is already underway, due to a massive displacement of people from combat zones, the insecurity and the inaccessibility of these areas," Tshisekedi told the U.N. Human Rights Council session.

Tshisekedi urged the international community to help Congo restore peace and state authority in this part of the country.

He again accused Rwandan authorities of supporting the M23. Rwanda denies backing the rebels.

Three Congolese and foreign electoral experts told Reuters the electoral commission could postpone the polls. It has already delayed the deadline for voter registration twice in more than a dozen western provinces due to technical problems.

Registration has so far been impossible in the territory under M23 control in North Kivu, one of Congo's most populous provinces.

The Congolese government has asked the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to hold discussions between Congo, Rwanda and the U.N. agency about repatriating refugees, Tshisekedi added.

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame said in January that he would no longer accept refugees from Congo.

There are around 72,200 Congolese refugees in Rwanda and almost 210,000 Rwandan refugees in Congo, according to the UNHCR.

(Reporting by Emma Farge; Additional reporting by Sonia Rolley; Writing by Anait Miridzhanian; Editing by Sofia Christensen and Barbara Lewis)
Right now, the average price for a loaf of bread is, approximately, $1.87. Under a new law proposed by House Republicans, that price would go up to more than $2.50. This would be the result of the Fair Tax Act, a bill proposed by around 30 House Republicans. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has promised to bring it before the chamber for a vote, although he has not specified when or under what conditions.

The Fair Tax Act is the latest incarnation of an idea that has bounced around for more than a generation. The proposed law would eliminate the IRS entirely and with it all federal taxes, including the income, payroll, estate and corporate taxes. In its place, Congress would enact a flat 30% sales tax on all goods and services nationwide.

Though this proposal is unlikely to pass, it may be a good idea to match with a vetted financial advisor for free to help you with your tax needs.

National Sales Tax  A Historical Glance

National sales taxes are an idea as old as tricorner hats. In the 18th and 19th centuries, modern income taxes didnt exist. Instead, like most governments, the U.S. funded itself mainly through tariffs and sales taxes. Permanent income taxes were authorized by constitutional amendment in 1913, and the system we know today wasnt established until World War II.

Today, no major economy relies exclusively on sales taxes for revenue. While a handful of small or petroleum-fueled economies have no income tax, the main exceptions to this rule are sub-jurisdictions like American states or cities.

However the idea remains a darling of the American conservative movement. Over the past 30 years it has come up over and over and over again. Part of the reason is historic, with many on the political right advocating a form of Constitutional law rooted in the documents 18th-century form. But most of the reason has to do with the superficial fairness of a flat retail tax. Everyone would pay the same thing on everything purchased, no matter what.

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This, proponents argue, would be better than the 3,000 page tax code America uses now. Tax experts disagree, however, citing numerous problems with a national sales tax.

Shortcomings of the Fair Tax Act

First, proponents argue, the mere fact of complication isnt an indictment of the system. America is a large country with a $23 trillion economy. Its taxes will almost certainly be complicated to some degree or another. Whats more, the underlying basis of the U.S. tax code is very straightforward. The more a household earns, the more it pays in taxes. Every year the IRS publishes income tables that detail how much a taxpayer owes based on how much they make.

However Congress also uses the tax code to incentivize certain behaviors (like owning a home or joining the military) and purchases (like solar panels). Its this network of credits and deductions that make the tax code complicated, not the concept of a progressive income tax itself.

Thats one problem. The next issue is scale.

As written, the Fair Tax Act is misleading. It proposes a 23% tax inclusive rate, meaning it applies to the post-tax cost of goods and services. Most, if not all, current sales taxes are calculated on a tax exclusive basis, meaning that the tax rate applies to the pre-tax cost of goods and services.

As a result, while the Fair Tax Act as written proposes a 23% inclusive tax, it would be a 30% tax in the way that virtually all taxpayers calculate sales taxes.

Even this substantial series of price increases, most economists agree, would still be far too low to fund the national government. A Brookings Institute study published in 2005 suggested that the correct rate would have to be closer to 44% to replace the governments current revenue. This also assumes that the sales tax would have no significant impact on economic activity, meaning that people would continue to buy and spend as normal even in the face of a 30% to 44% price increase across all goods and services.

To put it mildly, economists are skeptical of this suggestion. Instead, many warn, this kind of economy-wide price hike would almost certainly slow down consumer activity despite a consumer base thats wealthier because they paid no income taxes.

Experts also agree that the main selling point of the Fair Tax Act, its simplicity, is also inaccurate. As a Tax Policy Center briefing noted, even though the bill would abolish the IRS in the name of simplicity, it does so by simply forcing states and cities to collect taxes on the federal governments behalf. This, the briefing notes, just outsources the work to the states (and District of Columbia) If we optimistically assume that the FairTax brings in roughly the same amount of revenue (as a share of the economy) as the current tax code, annual collection fees per year for states would approach $10 billion. By comparison, the IRS spent about $13 billion per year over the last decade.

Beyond requiring the states to collect taxes on its behalf, which the federal government may not even have the power to do, the Fair Tax Act would create two new agencies to replace the abolished IRS. The Excise Tax Bureau and the Sales Tax Bureau would oversee management of the new sales tax and work with the states and cities assigned to collect those taxes.

Finally, the main concern that most tax experts have is that a national sales tax would cut taxes on the wealthy while skyrocketing them on low-income households. This is due to the disproportionate nature of sales taxes in general. The less money a household makes, the more of its income it spends on costs of living, all of which would be subject to the new 30% tax. Wealthier households save more of their money in bank accounts and investments, none of which would be taxed under the Fair Tax Act.

One study from 2011 found that the results of a 30% sales tax, as proposed under the Fair Tax Act, would shift the nations tax burden overwhelmingly. A national sales tax, the study found, would cut taxes for top earners by around 40%. Meanwhile, poorer households would see their tax burden increase by anywhere from 200% to 1,000%.

To manage this disproportionate impact the Fair Tax Act proposes to send households monthly checks to offset this issue. These so-called prebate checks would be equal to 23% of the federally assessed poverty-level cost of living. All households would receive this money regardless of income status.

Once again, this proposal has come under near-universal criticism by tax experts. While a prebate would mitigate the regressive impact of a national sales tax, the proposed bill would still lower taxes on the wealthy while raising taxes on low- and middle-earners. This would also require administration and oversight, again eliminating the proposed simplicity of a flat sales tax.

The Fair Tax Act is the latest version of an idea that has been around since at least the mid-1990s, and arguably much longer. Its proponents argue that a national retail tax would be simpler and fairer than the income tax, and would give Americans more money to spend resulting in significantly more economic growth.

Virtually every third-party expert to study the idea has found the opposite. A national sales tax would be complicated to administer, with massive potential for loopholes and evasion. It would cut taxes significantly on high-income households and raise them even more on low-earners. And, if anything, it would likely slow down the economy as consumers adjust their purchases to higher prices.

No vote has yet been scheduled on this bill. President Biden has said he will veto it even if it passes.

Bottom Line

House Republicans have proposed to eliminate income taxes and the IRS and replace them with a national 30% sales tax. Virtually all tax experts to study the issue agree that it would complicate the tax code and act as a massive tax cut for the wealthy.

Tips on Taxes

Photo credit: iStock.com/Pgiam

The post Congress to Vote on Whether to Abolish the IRS and Introduce One National Tax Rate appeared first on SmartAsset Blog.
The Congressional Equality Caucus has introduced a resolution to celebrate the contributions of Black LGBTQ+ leaders during Black History Month.

The resolution acknowledges February as an important time to honor the remarkable and unique contributions of Black Americans like Bayard Rustin, James Baldwin, Marsha P. Johnson, and others.

For generations, we have seen the erasure of Black LGBTQI+ Americans from our history, despite all of the rich and impactful contributions these individuals have made to our culture, society, and the advancement of civil rights said Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), vice chair and founding member of the caucus. Even today, the work of Black LGBTQI+ leaders is regularly not given the credit or recognition it deserves.

The resolution, orignially introduced in February 2021, has 32 cosponsors and lists the names of both historic and contemporary LGBTQ+ Black leaders and activists.

Those named include Alvin Ailey, famed dancer and choreographer; Patrisse Cullors and Alicia Garza, two of the three founders of Black Lives Matter; Andrea Jenkins, the first openly transgender woman elected to public office; Lori Lightfoot, the first openly LGBTQ+ person and first Black woman elected mayor of Chicago; Karine Jean-Pierre, first openly LGBTQ+ person and first Black woman to serve as White House Press Secretary; acclaimed writer Audre Lorde; and more.

But while many of these leaders are known, the resolution states, others who have enriched the nation have gone unseen and unrecognized.

Black LGBTQ+ Americans have made countless and indelible contributions to our society that have enriched our lives, informed our history, and enhanced our culture across many industries and institutions, said Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY), co-chair of the caucus and the first openly gay Afro-Latino to serve in Congress.

But too often, their stories and their legacies are erased or ignored and many people remain aware of the impact Black LGBTQ+ individuals have had on our country, Torres added. Im proud to again cosponsor this resolution that seeks to uplift and honor the voices and talents of Black LGBTQ+ Americans, providing them with recognition they deserve.

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But, the resolution added, these leaders have also experienced the compounding impacts of racism and anti- LGBTQI+ bias and hatred, but nonetheless continued to fight for justice and equity, making it important to recognize the Black LGBTQ+ leaders both known and unknown.

Attention to Black LGBTQ+ leaders and activists has come under scrutiny in recent months after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) argued an advanced placement African American studies course should not be teaching Black Queer studies.

Black history is American history and that includes Black LGBTQI+ history, said Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), chair of the caucus.

Equality California, the largest statewide LGBT organization in the United States, has endorsed the resolution.

In a statement, Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang said Black Americans have been integral in advancing civil rights at the intersection of race, sexual orientation and gender identity.

From Bayard Rustin standing at the side of Martin Luther King, Jr. at the March on Washington to Marsha P. Johnson taking a stand for dignity and respect at the Stonewall uprising to James Baldwin elucidating so beautifully both the pain and exquisite joy of his shared communities  the history of Black contributions to the LGBTQ+ experience is a rich and fruitful one and continues to this day, said Hoang.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Fighting back against deforestation, animal trafficking, and other threats to biodiversity isn't easy, but Samantha Zwicker and Hoja Nueva are up to the challenge  and seeing success.

Zwicker is the founder and co-director of Hoja Nueva, a conservation organization and rehabilitation center in the Las Piedras region of the Peruvian Amazon. This is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, home to more than 100 species of mammals, 200 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 700 species of birds. The organization's mission is to protect the land; rescue and rewild animals; conduct ecological research; and empower and educate local communities on conservation efforts.

The Hoja Nueva center in the Peruvian Amazon

Courtesy of Hoja Nueva

Growing up, "I was definitely connected with animals, and very embedded in nature," Zwicker told The Week. As an undergraduate at the University of Washington, Zwicker had the opportunity to assist a PhD student with a project in Peru, and "ended up falling in love with it," she said. "In the beginning I was working in gold mining areas ... these are completely barren landscapes, where the land has been blown up." Coming to Las Piedras was "like going to another world that's fully intact, pristine wilderness," Zwicker said, and she wanted to "protect it from becoming what I'd just experienced."

That was nearly 10 years ago, and since then, she's established Hoja Nueva and been featured in the documentary Wildcat. The team at Hoja Nueva lives by the "R"s  researching, rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintroducing wildlife in the Peruvian Amazon  and there are nearly 60 animals in their care now. Zwicker is primarily responsible for new or baby animals, helping them get accustomed to life at the rescue. Hoja Nueva often works with the Peruvian government to coordinate rescues of animals seized from traffickers, and in recent weeks brought in a young jaguar and ocelot.

"Animals come to us that don't make it, and that's the hardest part, if I'm honest," Zwicker said. "You have to focus on the animals you have that do make it, and the next ones that need you. If you stop, then there's so many more that aren't even going to have that chance."

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Samantha Zwicker

Courtesy of Hoja Nueva

While the ultimate goal is to reintroduce animals to the wild in order to stabilize and fortify their populations, a few animals that cannot be released due to trauma and health conditions have found their forever homes at Hoja Nueva, including an ocelot. "They get to live like little kings and queens," Zwicker said. "It's nice to have these wins and make an animal feel happy and safe."

The work of Hoja Nueva and Zwicker never stops. Goals include getting government protection for Las Piedras and possibly expanding operations to northern Peru, an animal trafficking hotspot, in order to directly address the problem. "We also want to have a bigger impact on research and science coming out of this region, so people can recognize how incredible and vital it is," Zwicker said.

Charlotte the collared peccary

Courtesy of Hoja Nueva

The bright spots, like rehabilitating what will soon be the first jaguar successfully rewilded in Peru and growing the Hoja Nueva team to include volunteers and interns from around the world, shows Zwicker that what she is doing matters and is changing the Peruvian Amazon for the better. Hoja Nueva is Spanish for "new leaf," a phrase that came to Zwicker during her early days in Peru when she saw a sprout coming out of a tree.

"It's a really beautiful name and it made sense with the saying 'turning a new leaf,'" Zwicker said. "I wanted to turn a new leaf for conservation, and approach it differently in this region."

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WASHINGTON (AP)  A crucial question has eluded governments and health agencies around the world since the COVID-19 pandemic began: Did the virus originate in animals or leak from a Chinese lab?

Now, the U.S. Department of Energy has assessed with low confidence in that it began with a lab leak, according to a person familiar with the report who wasnt authorized to discuss it. The report has not been made public.

But others in the U.S. intelligence community disagree.

There is not a consensus right now in the U.S. government about exactly how COVID started, John Kirby, the spokesman for the National Security Council, said Monday. There is just not an intelligence community consensus.

The DOE's conclusion was first reported over the weekend in the Wall Street Journal, which said the classified report was based on new intelligence and noted in an update to a 2021 document. The DOE oversees a national network of labs.

White House officials on Monday declined to confirm press reports about the assessment.

In 2021, officials released an intelligence report summary that said four members of the U.S. intelligence community believed with low confidence that the virus was first transmitted from an animal to a human, and a fifth believed with moderate confidence that the first human infection was linked to a lab.

While some scientists are open to the lab-leak theory, others continue to believe the virus came from animals, mutated, and jumped into people  as has happened in the past with viruses. Experts say the true origin of the pandemic may not be known for many years  if ever.

CALLS FOR MORE INVESTIGATION

The U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence declined to comment on the report. All 18 offices of the U.S. intelligence community had access to the information the DOE used in reaching its assessment.

Alina Chan, a molecular biologist at the Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, said she isnt sure what new intelligence the agencies had, but its reasonable to infer it relates to activities at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. She said a 2018 research proposal co-authored by scientists there and their U.S. collaborators essentially described a blueprint for COVID-like viruses.

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Less than two years later, such a virus was causing an outbreak in the city, she said.

The Wuhan institute had been studying coronaviruses for years, in part because of widespread concerns  tracing back to SARS  that coronaviruses could be the source of the next pandemic.

No intelligence agency has said they believe the coronavirus that caused COVID-19 was released intentionally. The unclassified 2021 summary was clear on this point, saying: We judge the virus was not developed as a biological weapon.

Lab accidents happen at a surprising frequency. A lot of people dont really hear about lab accidents because they're not talked about publicly, said Chan, who co-authored a book about the search for COVID-19 origins. Such accidents "underscore a need to make work with highly dangerous pathogens more transparent and more accountable.

Last year, the World Health Organization recommended a deeper probe into a possible lab accident. Chan said she hopes the latest report sparks more investigation in the United States.

China has called the suggestion that COVID-19 came from a Chinese laboratory  baseless.

SUPPORT FOR ANIMAL THEORY

Many scientists believe the animal-to-human theory of the coronavirus remains much more plausible. They theorize it emerged in the wild and jumped from bats to humans, either directly or through another animal.

In a 2021 research paper in the journal Cell, scientists said the COVID-19 virus is the ninth documented coronavirus to infect humans  and all the previous ones originated in animals.

Two studies, published last year by the journal Science, bolstered the animal origin theory. That research found that the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan was likely the early epicenter. Scientists concluded that the virus likely spilled from animals into people two separate times.

The scientific literature contains essentially nothing but original research articles that support a natural origin of this virus pandemic," said Michael Worobey, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Arizona who has extensively studied COVID-19's origins.

He said the fact that others in the intelligence community looked at the same information as the DOE and it apparently didn't move the needle speaks volumes. He said he takes such intelligence assessments with a grain of salt because he doesn't think the people making them have the scientific expertise ... to really understand the most important evidence that they need to understand.

The U.S. should be more transparent and release the new intelligence that apparently swayed the DOE, Worobey said.

REACTION TO THE REPORT

The DOE conclusion comes to light as House Republicans have been using their new majority power to investigate all aspects of the pandemic, including the origin, as well as what they contend were officials efforts to conceal the fact that it leaked from a lab in Wuhan. Earlier this month, Republicans sent letters to Dr. Anthony Fauci, National Intelligence Director Avril Haines, Health Secretary Xavier Beccera and others as part of their investigative efforts.

The now retired Fauci, who served as the countrys top infectious disease expert under both Republican and Democratic presidents, has called the GOP criticism nonsense.

Rep. Mike McCaul, R-Texas, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has asked the Biden administration to provide Congress with a full and thorough briefing on the report and the evidence behind it.

Kirby, the National Security Council spokesman, emphasized that President Joe Biden believes it's important to know what happened "so we can better prevent future pandemics but that such research must be done in a safe and secure manner and as transparent as possible to the rest of the world.

___

AP reporters Farnoush Amiri, Nomaan Merchant and Seung Min Kim contributed. Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky

___

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Courteney Cox has responded to one of the many viral stories from Prince Harrys recently-released memoir, Spare.

In the tell-all book, the Duke of Sussex recalled gobbling magic mushrooms at the Friends stars house in 2016.

In a new interview with Variety ahead of her induction to the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Monday (27 February), Cox confirmed that the royal stayed at her house but denied passing out psychedelics.

He did stay here for a couple of days  probably two or three, Cox said. Hes a really nice person.

I havent read the book. I do want to hear it, because Ive heard its really entertaining. But yes, its gotten back to me about it, she said of Harrys anecdote.

Im not saying there were mushrooms! I definitely wasnt passing them out.

In Spare, Harry said he was invited to crash at Coxs house through a friend of a friend who initially said the actor was away.

Courteney Cox (left) and Prince Harry (Getty Images)

No complaints from me. As a Friends fanatic, the idea of crashing at Monicas was highly appealing, Harry wrote. And amusing. But then Courteney turned up. I was very confused. Was her job cancelled? I didnt think it was my place to ask. More: Does this mean we have to leave?

She smiled. Of course not Harry. Plenty of room, he recalled. Great. But I was still confused because she was Monica. And I was a Chandler. I wondered if Id ever work up the courage to tell her. Was there enough tequila in California to get me that brave?

Harry then recalled meeting the actor Will Arnett at her house, who indulged him in doing the voice from The Lego Batman Movie, in which he stars.

Arnett apparently went to the fridge where Harry and his friend discovered a huge box of black diamond mushroom chocolates.

Somebody behind me said they were for everybody. Help yourself, boys. My mate and I grabbed several, gobbled them, washed them down with tequila.

Harrys memoir was recently spoofed in an episode of South Park in which the prince is promoting a book named Waaaagh.

Harry and Markles representatives denied reports that they were considering a lawsuit against South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone over the episode, calling the speculation nonsense.
Story at a glance

Campings popularity is at an all-time high, the camping website The Dyrt says.

More than 80 million Americans went camping last year, and 58.4 percent of campers surveyed in the 2023 Camping Report said they had difficulty finding a campsite to book because all reservations were taken.

The top two spots both go to campgrounds located in Americas first national park: Yellowstone.

(KTLA)  With so many national parks and natural beauty, camping is a great way to spend a weekend or a vacation in the U.S. But for the very best views, youll have to plan ahead.

Camping website The Dyrt looked into the most hard-to-book campgrounds in America and found that some of the most sought-after campgrounds are fully booked around the clock.

Campings popularity is at an all-time high, the website says. More than 80 million Americans went camping last year, and 58.4 percent of campers surveyed in the 2023 Camping Report said they had difficulty finding a campsite to book because all reservations were taken.

The top two spots both go to campgrounds located in Americas first national park: Yellowstone.

The Slough Creek Campground in Yellowstone is the hardest campground to book in the nation. The National Park Services says the campground offers some of the best wildlife-watching opportunities in the park, beautiful clear views of the night sky and the chance to hear some howling wolves. There are only 16 campsites available at Slough Creek.

In second place is Mammoth Campground, the only campground at Yellowstone that is open year-round. Located just five miles south of the parks North Entrance near Mammoth Hot Springs, the campground is close to fishing and hiking trails and offers great opportunities to view some of the parks famous bison and elk.

Both Slough Creek and Mammoth campgrounds are fully booked 100% of the year, the website says.

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Six states are represented on the list of hardest-to-book campgrounds.

The complete top 10 list is below:

Rank Campground No. of campsites Percentage of year fully booked 1. Slough Creek Campground, Wyoming 16 100% 2. Mammoth Campground, Wyoming 82 100% 3. Seven Points, Tennessee 61 99.1% 4. Fruita Campground, Utah 65 97.9% 5. South Campground, Utah 120 97.8% 6. Pinon Flats Campground, Colorado 90 97.6% 7. Upper Coffee Pot, Idaho 14 97.6% 8. Cages Bend, Tennessee 42 97.3% 9. Twin Lakes Campground, California 94 97.2% 10. Signal Mountain Campground, Wyoming 79 97.1%

For more on each campsite, click here.

And if you want to try your luck and hope for a cancellation to book one of these highly sought campsites, The Dyrt offers alerts to let you know when a campground is available.

Happy camping.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
[Source]

The COVID-19 lab leak theory is gaining renewed attention after the U.S. Department of Energy reportedly concluded that a lab was most likely the source of the deadly pandemic.

The news comes from officials who revealed to the Wall Street Journal that the department had made a low confidence assessment in support of the theory, which claims that SARS-CoV-2  the pathogen responsible for the disease  had escaped from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV). The site is designated with biosafety level 4, the highest security level required to isolate dangerous biological agents in an enclosed facility.

Intelligence assessments are typically made with low, medium or high confidence. Low confidence suggests that the reviewed information may be lacking, not reliable enough or perhaps too fragmented for a definitive judgment, according to CNN.

The intelligence community has been divided over the matter since President Joe Biden ordered a 90-day investigation into the virus origins in mid-2021.

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Four agencies had low confidence that the virus originated in nature, while one agency  the FBI  had moderate confidence that it came from a lab incident.

Analysts from three other agencies were unable to coalesce around either explanation without additional information. Yet the community as a whole reported that SARS-CoV-2 was not developed as a biological weapon and that Chinese officials did not have foreknowledge of the virus before the outbreak began.

The Energy Department was initially among the undecided agencies. It reportedly shared its information with other agencies, but none changed their conclusions.

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Republicans have prioritized studying the lab leak theory through a congressional subcommittee, which is slated to convene its first hearings on threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party on Tuesday.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R, WI-8), a former Marine counterintelligence officer, will chair the committee, which he said would undertake a two-year effort to "selectively decouple" the U.S. and China economies.

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Evidence has been piling up for over a year in favor of the lab leak hypothesis. I am glad some of our agencies are starting to listen to common sense and change their assessment, said Gallagher, according to the New York Times.

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China, for its part, rejected the Energy Departments assessment on Monday.

Spokesperson Mao Ning cited the authoritative and scientific conclusion reached between a joint mission by Chinese and World Health Organization experts in 2021, which found that a laboratory origin of the pandemic was considered to be extremely unlikely.

The origin of the novel coronavirus is a scientific issue and should not be politicized, Mao said. Relevant parties should stop stirring up the laboratory leak argument, stop smearing China and stop politicizing the traceability issue.

More from NextShark: Boy Killed By Father After Vaccination Dispute in Heartbreaking Murder-Suicide in SF
President Biden receives a COVID-19 booster shot at the White House in October 2022. (Tom Brenner for the Washington Post via Getty Images)

The White House announced last month that the COVID-19 public health emergency, or PHE, declared by the Trump administration at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020 will end on May 11. And while some Americans may incur extra costs as COVID-related expenses shift away from the federal government, theres one group, experts say, that will likely inherit the biggest burden.

What did the COVID public health emergency declaration do?

Many of the emergency declarations really had to do with trying to adjust our systems overall in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, a professor of epidemiology and medicine at Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, told Yahoo News. Allowing more virtual medical visits is one example. Another example would be providing free testing for individuals who don't have health insurance. A third example would be providing vaccines at no cost. Another example would be providing treatment for COVID-19 at no cost.

Keon Gilbert, a Brookings Institution fellow and associate professor at Saint Louis Universitys College for Public Health and Social Justice, explained that the PHE enabled different agencies to move through processes a bit faster so everyone could get access to COVID-related screening tools and treatments more easily.

As people began to lose their employment or became underemployed, as hours were cut back the longer that the pandemic carried on, [the PHE] allowed people, especially in states that expanded Medicaid, to get health care insurance and health care coverage through the Medicaid pathway, he explained.

Who will likely be impacted the most?

Gilbert said those most affected by the conclusion of the PHE will definitely [be] people who don't have insurance  a prediction that El-Sadr agrees with.

Often, it's the most vulnerable individuals in society that end up being the ones who are left behind. This includes, largely, the uninsured [and] people who are undocumented, she said. Often it is the most vulnerable people in society that will bear the brunt of gaps in services.

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El-Sadr cautioned that while the uninsured will probably encounter the most obstacles, we dont know all the details yet, and more information should be available as we get closer to May 11. But in all likelihood, the safety net provided by federally funded testing kits, vaccines and treatments will eventually fall away.

Thanks to policies put in place during the pandemic to protect those who lost their job or income, the number of uninsured people in the U.S. decreased by nearly 1.5 million in 2021, to a total of 27.5 million, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.

But expiration of the PHE could mean an uptick in uninsured people as Medicaids continuous enrollment provision comes to an end.

When it was declared, [the PHE] allowed states to enroll a lot of people on Medicaid so that they would have insurance. Millions of people will get disenrolled over time when the PHE ends, Gilbert explained. Some of those people may have already secured employment with health benefits, so they'll be OK for the most part. It's really the people that remain unemployed or underemployed that will be the most affected.

Also, we have to realize that there are still millions of people who are experiencing long COVID symptoms, and some of them maybe have not gone back to work full time. Some of them may still be completely unemployed. And so depending on their particular employment status, they may also be greatly affected by this as well.

According to an analysis released by the Department of Health and Human Services, children and young adults will be impacted disproportionately, with 5.3 million children and 4.7 million adults ages 18-34 predicted to lose Medicaid/CHIP [Childrens Health Insurance Program] coverage. Latino and Black individuals make up nearly a third of those predicted to lose coverage.

A nurse prepares a COVID booster shot in Los Angeles in December. (Hans Gutknecht/MediaNews Group/Los Angeles Daily News via Getty Images)

What could change for uninsured people?

As long as the U.S.s substantial federal stockpile of vaccines lasts, COVID primary and booster shots will, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, continue to be free for everyone regardless of insurance coverage, according to an analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation. The availability and cost of COVID vaccines is determined by the supply of federally purchased vaccines, not by the PHE. But once that supply runs out, vaccine costs may become a barrier for uninsured and underinsured adults, says Kaiser. As early as this fall, the U.S. government plans to stop purchasing COVID vaccines, and vaccine manufacturers will sell them to health care providers at a higher cost  which uninsured individuals may have to pay out of pocket.

For uninsured children, Gilbert said, vaccines may be available at a very low cost or no cost. The federally funded Vaccines for Children program, for example, has been around since long before COVID and provides vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention buying shots at a discounted rate to distribute to registered providers with the program.

But for uninsured adults, Gilbert said, it's going to be a little bit more tricky.

Hopefully, federally qualified health care centers and other places will be able to offer people both COVID tests and COVID vaccines, either at a very low cost or free, even though they don't have insurance, he said.

For COVID-19 testing, uninsured people in many states have already had to pay out of pocket for PCR tests, the median cost of which is $127 per test, unless they got tested at a free clinic or community health center. A Medicaid coverage option adopted by 15 states, which allowed uninsured people access to testing services with no cost sharing, will expire with the PHE.

Health and Human Services says that pending resource availability, the CDCs Increasing Community Access to Testing program will continue working to ensure continued equitable access to testing for uninsured individuals and areas of high social vulnerability through pharmacies and community-based sites.

The U.S. government also may continue to distribute free tests from the national stockpile while supplies last. But access to free at-home COVID testing kits through a government website will likely cease once those supplies have been used up.

It seems like the free testing will come to an end, unless certain clinics will offer free tests, Gilbert said. I imagine for some people, especially the older population and families with children, they may stock up on some of the free tests to help them get through several more months.

COVID treatments such as Paxlovid, an antiviral therapy that can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death, will also continue to be free as long as the federal supply lasts, but uninsured patients may need to start footing the bill once that supply runs out. As with vaccines, the cost and availability of Paxlovid are contingent on federal supply and not on the PHE, Kaiser explains. Last year the U.S. government purchased 20 million courses of Paxlovid from Pfizer at a discounted rate of $530 each.

Are we ready?

While Gilbert said there are very mixed feelings about the end of the PHE, public health experts do acknowledge that weve entered a new phase in the pandemic.

I think we recognize that we are in a different place with COVID-19 versus where we were in early 2020, or even early 2021, El-Sadr said. We know a lot more about the virus itself and about how to diagnose and manage COVID-19. We're in a very different place, which means that there's reason to adjust to the moment.

Although the PHE is ending on May 11, Gilbert said a lot of changes shouldnt happen overnight.

It's still going to take several months for the policy to take effect, he explained. Those that are going to be disenrolled [from Medicaid] won't be disenrolled immediately. They have to be given some time and a notice date for when their Medicaid benefits will end.

Hopefully that gives people many, many months to be able to prepare for whatever new change or new costs they will incur. So I guess that's sort of one positive piece  that everything won't happen immediately.

But the sunsetting of the PHE also calls attention to non-COVID-related gaps in U.S. health care.

I think one of the challenges, just broadly, is that we still don't have a very clear and clean public health infrastructure that allows people to feel that even though this particular declaration is ending, that there are plenty of safeguards, Gilbert said. So I think what becomes important is that public health agencies like the CDC and state, county and local health departments communicate what role they will play in making sure that people continue to not only remain safe and prevent COVID, but also that there are opportunities and structures in place for them to access many of these preventative health services as well.

El-Sadr pointed out that the PHE brought about some changes that were welcomed particularly by some of the more vulnerable members of society  such as access to virtual medical visits, making health care more available to the elderly. Understanding the broader consequences of ending what some would consider desirable changes to health care, she said, will be important as we move into a post-PHE era.

I realize we're in a different place, El-Sadr said, but at the same time we have to very carefully examine what are the implications of rescinding the public health emergency in terms of access to COVID-related services and treatments and vaccines  and also in terms of access to health services overall.
Cuba Gooding Jr. faces a civil lawsuit in which a woman has accused him of raping her in a hotel room. Frank Franklin II/AP

Cuba Gooding Jr.'s attorneys say they have three witnesses who challenge his rape accuser's story.

The three witnesses heard the accuser brag about having sex with Gooding, the actor's attorneys said.

Gooding and his anonymous accuser are headed toward an early June civil trial in New York City.

Lawyers for Cuba Gooding Jr. alleged Monday that the actor's rape accuser "bragged" about having consensual sex with him on the same night that she claims he attacked her inside a New York City hotel room in 2013.

Gooding's attorney, Gary Becker, told US District Court Judge Paul A. Crotty during a status conference in Manhattan federal court that they plan on calling two witnesses at trial who allege that the accuser returned to the bar where she met Gooding earlier in the evening, and boasted about having consensual sex with him. Outside the courtroom, Becker's co-counsel, Ed Sapone, clarified that they actually have three witnesses from the bar  two bar owners and a bartender.

The woman, identified only as "Jane Doe" in court documents, sued Gooding in 2020 and accused the Oscar-winning actor of raping her in his room at Manhattan's Mercer hotel in 2013 after the two met at a bar in Greenwich Village. She claimed in the lawsuit that she repeatedly told Gooding "no" and that he raped her a second time as she was trying to leave his hotel room.

Casey Wolnowski, one of Doe's attorneys, told Insider after the conference Monday that he's "aware of these witnesses" but "vehemently denies their views on what transpired." Wolnowski added that he's "confident the jury is going to give" his client's testimony "the weight it deserves."

Attorneys for the two parties also discussed a trial date on Monday. On Tuesday, the judge ordered that the trial start June 5. Wolnowski had asked for a 2024 trial date due to scheduling conflicts for his co-counsel, Nathan Goldberg, a partner at Gloria Allred's law firm, but Crotty did not want to delay the trial that long.

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"We're not putting the trial off for a year," Crotty said.

Gooding's attorneys also brought up several issues related to evidence that they're seeking for the trial at the hearing Monday, though the deadline for exchanging such information ended in October.

Gooding's attorneys said Doe refused to turn over several documents they requested, including a police report she said she filled out about the alleged assault shortly after hiring Allred's firm. Wolnowski said during the hearing that his client doesn't have paperwork relating to the police report and that Gooding's attorneys should have subpoenaed the police.

Crotty didn't rule on any of the evidence but seemed impatient with the issues being brought up after the discovery deadline had passed.

"The time for discovery is over. Let's get on with the trial," Crotty said Monday.

Gooding has denied Doe's rape allegations. After Monday's conference, Gooding's attorney Sapone said his client is "very confident" he'll win the case.

Gooding "has a lot of faith in the civil justice system and can't wait for his day in court," Sapone said.

This isn't the first time that Gooding has been accused of sexual misconduct. In 2019, Gooding was booked on suspicion of groping a woman at a Times Square bar. That case eventually grew to include similar complaints from two other women.

In August 2020, prosecutors said more than 30 women had come forward to accuse Gooding of unwanted sexual touching.

Last year, Gooding pleaded guilty to a harassment charge in a deal with prosecutors that allowed him to escape imprisonment.

One of the three accusers in the criminal case, Natasha Ashworth, also sued Gooding in New York Supreme Court. She won that case by default last year after Gooding refused to respond to the lawsuit for nearly two years. A judge ordered Gooding to pay Ashworth $80,000 in damages.

Update  February 28, 2023: This story has been updated to include the judge's ruling that the trial start on June 5.

Read the original article on Insider
A cyberattack on a Boston-based labor unions health fund resulted in the loss of $6.4 million, but it does not appear that the personal information of members was stolen or compromised, union officials said.

Federal and local law enforcement agencies were notified of the attack at Pipefitters Local 537 that was discovered Feb. 7 and the union retained a cyber security forensic investigator, union business manager/financial secretary-treasurer Daniel OBrien said in a message to members.

This is very unfortunate news; but please be assured that nothing about your benefits with Local 537 has changed and our health fund remains well-funded, OBrien wrote.

Law enforcement is optimistic that they will be able to return the vast majority of the stolen funds, he said. The fund is also insured.

The FBI in Boston declined to comment.

OBrien described the breach as a social engineering cyberattack and said private investigators and a cybersecurity company have completed a review of the fund offices email server and concluded that there was no breach or hack.

Employees are receiving advanced cybersecurity training and changes have been made to the health funds wiring policy.

In closing, it has been reiterated throughout the investigation to remind our membership to be mindful of what we put out online and on social media, as these are easy places for cybercriminals to gain information and locate potential targets, OBrien said.

The union has about 3,000 members and represents pipefitters, welders and HVAC-refrigeration workers.

Government agencies, businesses, health care organizations, and school systems around the world have been the targets of cyberattacks recently. In September, the Justice Department charged three Iranian citizens with ransomware attacks that targeted power companies, local governments and small businesses and nonprofits.

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OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  Parts of the Southern Plains counted the injured and surveyed the damage Monday after tornadoes and other powerful winds swept through, killing at least one person in Oklahoma, while some Michigan residents faced a fifth consecutive day without power following last weeks ice storm.

In California, the National Weather Service said winter storms will continue moving into the state through Wednesday after residents got a brief break from severe weather Sunday.

Parts of the Northeast that have seen little snow this winter were under a winter storm warning. And forecasters warned of continued high winds in parts of the Plains and of thunderstorms and possible tornadoes in the Ohio Valley.

A look at the weather threats around the country:

TORNADO FORECAST, CLEANUP

A storm system produced at least four tornadoes as it moved across central and northeastern Illinois on Monday, including two that formed in suburbs west of Chicago, authorities said. Initial reports suggested damage there was limited to fallen trees or shingles torn from buildings, said Rafal Ogorek, a meteorologist in the Chicago office of the National Weather Service.

At least one person was killed and three others injured after a tornado touched down Sunday night in far western Oklahoma near the town of Cheyenne, where 20 homes were damaged and four others destroyed, Roger Mills County Emergency Manager Levi Blackketter reported.

Statewide, Oklahoma officials received reports of 55 people who suffered weather-related injuries from area hospitals.

Officials in Norman, Oklahoma, confirmed 12 weather-related injuries after tornadoes and wind gusts as high as 90 mph (145 kph) were reported in the state Sunday night. The winds toppled trees and power lines, closed roads and damaged homes and businesses around Norman and Shawnee.

Classes were canceled Monday at two damaged elementary schools, said Norman Police Chief Kevin Foster.

Frances Tabler, of Norman, told KOCO-TV that she suffered a small cut on her head when a storm hit her home, tearing off much of its roof and sending debris flying. She said it was a miracle her children weren't hurt, although her daughter was trapped for awhile in a bedroom.

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It was just like a blizzard in the house with all the debris flying," Tabler told KOCO. "I was screaming for my kids.

The line of quick-moving thunderstorms that produced a swath of damaging wind gusts across likely qualified as a derecho, although thats not an official designation, said Nolan Meister, a National Weather Service meteorologist.

Meister said a wind gust of 114 mph (183 kph) was recorded in Texas, with gusts between 70 mph (113 kph) and 90 mph (145 kph) in central Oklahoma.

More than 76,000 customers lost power in Oklahoma, but most had it restored by Monday morning, Oklahoma's Office of Emergency Management reported.

There were reports of nine tornadoes in Kansas, Oklahoma and northwestern Texas, weather officials said. One tornado near Liberal, Kansas, damaged more than a dozen homes and caused minor injuries to one person, KSNW-TV reported.

BLIZZARD CONDITIONS IN WESTERN U.S.

Blizzard warnings went into effect Monday in the Sierra Nevada range as more rounds of rain and snow moved into California and Nevada.

An avalanche warning was issued for the backcountry around Lake Tahoe, where up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) of snow was expected over the next two days in the upper elevations and gale-force winds could create waves up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) high on the lake, the National Weather Service in Reno said. State offices across northern Nevada and the Nevada Legislature in Carson City were shut down because of the severe weather.

The new series of storms arrived even as parts of California were still digging out from last weeks powerful storm, which added to a massive snowpack left by a siege of atmospheric rivers in December and January.

A 90-mile (145-km) stretch of U.S. 395 in Californias eastern Sierra was shut down Monday evening due to whiteout conditions, state transportation officials said. Yosemite National Park announced it would be closed until midweek, and numerous roads were closed in Sequoia National Park. Trans-Sierra highways were subject to closures and chain requirements.

Los Angeles County declared a cold weather alert for valley and mountain areas north of LA as overnight temperatures were expected to plunge below freezing for much of the week. Shelters were opened for residents who dont have access to warm spaces.

East of Los Angeles, roads to San Bernardino Mountain resort communities around Big Bear Lake were closed after snow began falling again. The storm stranded more than 600 students at science camps in the Big Bear area over the weekend. The students from Irvine in Orange County were expected home Friday but officials decided it was safer to keep them in the mountains until the roads could be cleared. The California Highway Patrol began escorting out buses carrying the kids on Monday, the Irvine Unified School District said.

The northbound side of Interstate 5, the West Coasts major north-south highway, was shut down by wintry conditions and disabled vehicles about 90 miles (145 km) south of the Oregon line. Interstate 80, the major route between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe and Reno was closed due to blizzard conditions.

STORMS IN MICHIGAN AND NORTHEAST

In Michigan, still reeling from last week's ice storm and high winds, more than 180,000 customers were without power Monday, according to PowerOutage.us. That was down from more than 800,000 at one point last week. Crews continued their work to restore all electricity.

Leah Thomas, whose home north of Detroit lost power Wednesday night, finally got her power back Sunday afternoon  only to have it go out again at midday Monday.

Its very frustrating, very frustrating, she said. Im just going to hope and cross my fingers that it comes back on here soon.

While not expecting a blockbuster storm by regional standards, southern New England braced for what could be the most significant snowfall of what has so far been a mild winter.

A winter storm warning covered parts of the Northeast, including Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island, with heavy snow forecast for Monday evening through Tuesday afternoon.

Boston could get 5 inches and a messy Tuesday morning commute, according to the weather service. As much as 10 inches could fall in western Massachusetts, northwest Connecticut and southern Vermont.

___

Antczak reported from Los Angeles. Associated Press writers from across the country contributed to this report.
(Bloomberg) -- In a windswept desert southwest of Buenos Aires, black steel tubes the length of school buses extend in a line toward the horizon. The scene is the clearest sign yet that one of the worlds biggest shale plays finally has a shot at living up to its promise.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Workers in the geological formation known as Vaca Muerta  Spanish for Dead Cow  are building a 356-mile (573-kilometer) pipeline that will carry natural gas from remote northern Patagonia to Argentinas cities and industry centers in the east. The project, along with the planned expansion of an oil conduit in the same area, will help relieve bottlenecks that have stifled production of fossil fuels the nation desperately needs to bolster its economy.

While Argentinas energy industry has seen its fair share of false dawns in recent years, construction of the pipeline is an irrefutable step toward a much-cherished goal of cutting the country's dependency on fuel imports  and perhaps even regaining the status it held 20 years ago as a key energy exporter.

The progress in Vaca Muerta comes as the US shale boom slows, the war in Ukraine roils the global gas market and the worlds centers of oil-production growth shift to South America, including Guyana and Brazil. Its also happening in spite of government restrictions on crude prices and money flows.

The critical steps are being taken  therell be no piece of infrastructure missing to sustain Vaca Muerta growth in the near-to-medium term, said Marcelo de Assis, an oil and gas researcher for Wood Mackenzie in Rio de Janeiro. But there are still above-ground risks. Price caps are a policy for election cycles, yet drillers need long-term stability, and capital controls are a killer.

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In Vaca Muerta one morning late last year, workers soldered giant steel pipes and excavated chunks of sandy earth, carving out the cross-country route that the pipeline  named President Nestor Kirchner, after the former leader  will take. By many accounts, its Argentinas first major gas duct in decades. The pipeline is, in large part, a product of Argentinas current leftist government led by President Alberto Fernandez. Fernandez, whose term ends this year, also fixed oil prices far above market levels in 2020 to avoid decimating Vaca Muerta production during the pandemic-driven price crash. While the previous administration, led by pro-market Mauricio Macri, helped reduce the countrys reliance on gas imports, renewable energy was the bigger focus.

The conduits developer, state-owned Energia Argentina SA, plans to have it ready by June 20, a national independence holiday. Coincidence or not, the ducts startup promises to be a victory lap of sorts after years of setbacks, including the pandemic and allegations of corruption  not to mention the near-default of Argentinas state-run driller, YPF SA.

The importance of the job is not lost on the thousands-strong workforce. We feel the magnitude, said construction manager Jose Ibarra, surveying the expanse of desert scrub from behind a pair of sun goggles. It feels like the whole country is behind us.

Its a race against time since June 20 falls early in Argentinas winter, when gas demand jumps. The government, betting that the pipeline will be finished on schedule, has ordered just 30 liquefied natural gas cargoes for the coming months, 11 fewer than last year. Any delay that forces extra imports would eat into precious government funds, which would be an embarrassing misstep after officials used LNG savings for a sovereign bond buyback.

Meeting the deadline is a huge task by anyones measure. Were confident, but there are always things that are out of your hands, said Damian Mindlin, head of Sacde, one of the construction firms building the pipeline.

Argentinas natural gas production reached 140 million cubic meters (4.9 billion cubic feet) a day last winter and the new pipeline would provide an extra 21 million of transport capacity, allowing shale drillers to ramp up operations. Eventually, the logic goes, the country would export to neighboring Brazil by land and to the rest of the world by sea in the form of LNG cargoes. By comparison, the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico  the worlds most prolific shale formation  pumps about 22 billion cubic feet a day.

Though Argentina doesnt have any LNG export terminals yet, Texas-based Excelerate Energy and Transportadora de Gas del Sur SA will decide in the next few weeks whether to build a small-scale one. YPF and Malaysias Petroliam Nasional Bhd. are studying the feasibility of a bigger facility.

Read more: Argentina to Study Feasibility of LNG Exports With Petronas

As for exports to Brazil, they depend on Argentina luring lenders to finance an extra section of the Nestor Kirchner duct. Thats no sure thing: Argentinas woes largely keep it locked out of international credit markets, and its paying for the first section with tax revenues, including a one-off pandemic wealth tax. Each section would cost about $2.5 billion, for a total of $5 billion.

Vaca Muertas oil production, meanwhile, is also set for a boost. Oldelval SA, which transports most of the regions supply, and storage company Oiltanking Ebytem SA are planning to double capacity after the government renewed their operating licenses last year.

Its good timing: With peak oil demand still a way off and US shale production growing more slowly, a window of opportunity has opened for Vaca Muerta since there are few additional supplies beyond OPEC that can come to market soon.

Years of efficiency gains in Vaca Muerta mean some crude drillers can break even at as low as $30 a barrel. That would put them on a par with shale rivals in the US.

With these pipeline plans, well comfortably reach the goal of one million barrels a day of shale oil by 2030, said Omar Gutierrez, the governor of Neuquen, the province with the lions share of Vaca Muerta. About half of that could be shipped to international buyers, Gutierrez said.

The Neuquen Basin was producing a record 373,000 barrels a day at the end of last year, almost two-thirds of all the oil in Argentina. But a decade after its massive oil and gas reserves lured the likes of Chevron Corp. and Shell Plc, output from Vaca Muerta still doesnt come close to matching supply from the Permian.

Oldelval has already been auctioning off the extra space to shale drillers, some of whom  in a clear sign of the transportation squeeze  have even resorted to taking shale oil to the Atlantic coast in trucks.

Government incentives are facilitating bond sales to finance pipeline expansions amid Argentinas lousy credit climate. But intervention is a double-edged sword for drillers.

Argentinas government keeps domestic fuel prices artificially low to protect consumers, often hurting producers. Currency controls, designed to defend the peso, make it hard for the countrys drillers to get the US dollars they need to buy equipment or send profits to investors. And local refiners have right of first refusal to buy oil that might otherwise fetch higher prices overseas, a hurdle to long-term export contracts. Those kinds of measures have been major roadblocks to Vaca Muertas development.

Still, Miguel Galuccio, chief executive officer of Vista Energy, a top-three crude producer in the shale patch, says this time could be different.

Progress of pipeline projects is key to attracting more investment and potentially leading Argentina to be a relevant energy exporter, Galuccio said.

--With assistance from Lucia Kassai.

(Adds oil production chart)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
(PA)

Rishi Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen have struck a historic Brexit deal cementing what may be the most important decision of his time as prime minister.

Mr Sunak hailed what he said was a major breakthrough that marked the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship with the EU.

The Windsor framework will deliver smooth-flowing trade within the whole United Kingdom, protects Northern Irelands place in our union and safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland, he said.

But in a nod to a potential clash with NIs largest unionist party the DUP he said he recognised that they would want to take time to study the detail.

The pound jumped as markets welcomed the move amid hopes it will ease EU/UK tensions in the wake of Brexit.

At a press conference in Windsor the prime minister said the deal was a turning point for the people of NI because his deal would remove any sense of a border in the Irish Sea.

After striking the deal Ms von der Leyen had tea with the King at Windsor Castle despite criticisms the meeting would drag Charles into the politically contentious issue.

The deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol is designed to solve problems in post-Brexit trading arrangements with the EU.

In a bid to avoid a hard border in Ireland after Brexit, NI remains in the EUs single market for goods.

But unionists argue that simply replaces one unacceptable border with another - this time down the Irish Sea, separating NI from the rest of the UK.The new arrangements are expected to ease those tensions including by reducing checks on good travelling into Northern Ireland from GB.

Mr Sunak will now hope his new deal wins the backing of the DUP, Northern Irelands largest unionist party, and convinces them to re-enter power-sharing in the government there, which is currently in abeyance.

The prime minister received a massive boost earlier when Northern Ireland minister and hardline Brexiteer Steve Baker emerged smiling from No 10 and told reporters: I can only say this, the prime minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.

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His wholehearted support appeared to make a nonsense of claims that he was on the verge of resigning over compromise which maintained a role for the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Northern Ireland.

Tory Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg put Mr Sunak on notice of a possible Tory revolt, however  claiming that the support of both former prime minister Boris Johnson and the DUP were vital in getting it through parliament.

But former cabinet minister David Davis and several senior Brexit-backers have told The Independent they expected a rebellion to be limited to only 20 to 30 Tory MPs.

Writing for The Independent, Mr Davis described the deal as a formidable achievement, saying he was satisfied there would be a major reduction in the power of European judges and a democratic check on new EU rules that apply to Northern Ireland.

The DUP dismissed a report in the Irish News newspaper that the party would back the deal. The newspaper, citing a source with knowledge of the partys thinking, said a London dinner was pencilled in with supporters tonight to explain the rationale for supporting Mr Sunak.

However, DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson ridiculed the report, tweeting: Anonymous sources strike again. Well take our time to consider the detail and measure a deal against our seven tests. PS  A busy day and no dinner planned either  story entirely fictional.

more follows ...
By Remo Casilli and Alvise Armellini

CROTONE, Italy (Reuters) -Rescuers recovered four more bodies on Monday, a day after a wooden sailboat carrying migrants to Europe smashed onto rocks in stormy weather off southern Italy, bringing the death toll to 63, including at least 14 children.

Rescuers said most of the migrants came from Afghanistan, as well as from Iran, Somalia, Syria and elsewhere. Pakistan's foreign ministry said 20 Pakistani citizens were on the boat, with four missing and 16 survivors of the nighttime shipwreck.

Many of the victims washed ashore close to where the vessel sank near Steccato di Cutro, a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Calabria, while some of the bodies were recovered from the sea.

"We met a survivor who fled Afghanistan with his sister to escape the Taliban. She did not survive," said Sergio Di Dato, a project coordinator with charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

MSF is offering psychological support to survivors, including a 12-year-old boy from Afghanistan who lost all nine family members who were traveling with him, including his parents and four siblings.

"People are in shock, very exhausted, some of them say they saw relatives fall into the water and disappear or die," Save the Children, another charity offering assistance, said on Twitter.

Dozens of coffins were laid out in a sports hall in the neighbouring town of Crotone ahead of an eventual funeral. Local people left flowers, candles and a teddy bear on metal railings outside to show their respect.

An imam led Muslim prayers for the victims, and a Catholic bishop also came to pray and offer condolences. Some survivors sat outside the sports hall, wrapped in thermal blankets and crying.

Local authorities said 81 people survived the disaster, but between 180 to 200 people were believed to have boarded the vessel when it left from Izmir in western Turkey, suggesting many more passengers may have perished or be missing.

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The shipwreck has stoked a debate on migration in Europe and Italy, where the recently elected right-wing government's tough new laws for migrant rescue charities have drawn criticism from the United Nations and others.

"These tragedies are the result of the tragic collateral damages of Italian and European policies, protecting borders and reducing safe and regular passage to Europe," said Marco Bertotto, director of programmes for MSF in Italy.

'STOP THE DEPARTURES'

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in an interview she wrote to European Union institutions calling for immediate action by the bloc to stop migrant boat trips so as to prevent more deaths.

"The more people depart, the more risk dying," she told RAI public television. "The only way to tackle this issue seriously, with humanity, is to stop the departures."

Her interior minister, Matteo Piantedosi, meanwhile attracted widespread criticism after he blamed migrants as well as traffickers, for embarking on dangerous sea journeys with their families.

"Desperation can never justify traveling in conditions that endanger the lives of their children," he said.

"Dear Minister Piantedosi, if a mother chooses to put her child, the most precious thing she has, on a boat, it is because she is fleeing from greater danger and desperation," Raffaella Paita, a senator from the centrist Italia Viva party, said.

"It would be wise to think before you speak. You have no humanity," she added.

The minister shot back at opponents, saying it was "shameful" to mount a polemic over his words, and said the government was also committed to opening up legal migration channels.

He mentioned the "humanitarian corridors", a initiative run by Christian groups which he said had airlifted to Italy more than 600 migrants since October, when Meloni's administration was installed.

In the same period of time, at least 41,000 migrants came to Italy via boat trips.

The vast majority of migrant boats departed from North Africa, but increasing numbers have left from Turkey over the past two years, including some 16,000 in 2022 -- 15% of all arrivals.

The United Nations Missing Migrants Project has registered more than 20,000 deaths and disappearances in the central Mediterranean since 2014, including more than 220 this year, making it the most dangerous migrant route in the world.

(Reporting by Giselda Vagnoni, Angelo Amante, Gianluca Semeraro and Federico Maccioni; Writing by Alvise Armellini, Angelo Amante and Crispian Balmer; Editing by Bernadette Baum and Angus MacSwan)
Rome  Police in Italy said one person was arrested on human trafficking charges and two others were suspected of cooperating with smugglers after a boat carrying as many as 200 migrants smashed apart against reefs off Italy's Calabrian coast over the weekend. Some 80 people were found alive, but at least 62 others were confirmed to have been killed in the disaster and dozens more were feared dead.

Wooden debris from the shattered boat was still being buffeted by rough seas, pushed up along the coast and strewn across the beach in southern Italy on Monday morning  grim evidence of the tragic end of a journey that scores of people hoped would deliver them to a better life.

Some of those who survived the Sunday morning shipwreck sat on the beach huddled in blankets as first responders waded into the rough surf to search for any more survivors, and to collect the dead.

Rescuers recover a body after a migrant boat broke apart in rough seas, at a beach near Cutro, southern Italy, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. / Credit: Giuseppe Pipita / AP

After a team pulled three more bodies from the surf on Monday, pushing the confirmed death toll to 62, provincial fire Cmdr. Roberto Fasano was asked if he thought there might still be survivors found.

"I think no," he said, "because the sea conditions are too difficult. But we can never abandon this hope."

More than a dozen of those killed were said to be children  which hit the first responders particularly hard.

"It was a spine-chilling scene," Firefighter Inspector Giuseppe Larosa said, according to The Associated Press. "Many bodies disseminated on the beach. Among them many children The thing that struck me the most was their silence. The terror in their eyes and the fact that they were mute. Silent."

Rescuers recover a body at a beach near Cutro, southern Italy, after a migrant boat broke apart in rough seas, Feb. 26, 2023. / Credit: Giuseppe Pipita/AP

The victims and survivors, believed to be mostly from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran, had set off from Turkey's coast last week in the wooden boat, said to be operated by traffickers. They were spotted by the European Union's border and coast guard agency, Frontex, over the weekend, but a patrol dispatched to intercept them was forced to turn back due to rough weather.

Story continues

While Pope Francis offered prayers Sunday, thanking the rescuers, the incident also whipped-up political debate.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed sorrow for the lives "broken by traffickers," but her relatively new right-wing coalition government has taken a tough stand on migrants, adding new hurdles for charities trying to rescue them, which have been critized by the United Nations.

Meloni's Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, who has driven the country's crackdown on migration, visited the scene Sunday. He told reporters the solution to the migration crisis was to put an end to the risky sea crossings where they begin, and he lamented how it was "possible that these crossings are organized, pushing women and children to make the trips that end up tragically dangerous."



"It is time for silence, prayer, recollection and deep meditation. But it is also a time in which we must responsibly question ourselves about this latest tragedy," said Bishop Francesco Savino from the nearby Cassano all'jonio, a Roman Catholic diocese in Calabria.

A view of part of the wreckage of a capsized boat that was washed ashore at a beach near Cutro, in Calabria, southern Italy, Feb. 27, 2023. / Credit: Paolo Santalucia/AP

"It's a day of grief for Calabria," said the governor of the southern Italian region, adding that Calabria "welcomes people but we can't be abandoned by Europe."

Around 105,000 migrants came to Italy in 2022, roughly 38,000 more than the previous year. The country is a regular destination for migrants trying to reach Europe, and it has often pushed other countries in the region to do more.

Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the EU's European Commission, urged the bloc's nations to work together to address the crisis, saying the lack of a unified response had led to the "loss of life of innocent migrants" yet again.

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Ukrainian Defence Intelligence Chief Kyrylo Budanov believes that China will not agree to supply weapons to Russia as of now.

Source: Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Major General Kyrylo Budanov, in an interview with Voice of America [a state-owned news network and international radio broadcaster of the United States of America  ed.]

Quote: "I do not share this opinion [that China can supply weapons to Russia  ed.]. As of now, I don't think that China will agree to the transfer of weapons to Russia. I don't see any signs that such things are even being discussed.

I don't see any such facts."

Details: According to him, almost the only country that transfers "more or less serious" weapons to Russia is Iran. He added that there was information about the supply from North Korea, but Ukrainian intelligence has no confirmation of this, and weapons from North Korea have never been found in Ukraine.

At the same time, he stressed that these weapons can be used for "some other needs", so perhaps their use could not be found.

Quote: "Russia is just trying to buy anything anywhere. Because their problems are significant. Serbia, which everyone in Russia so hoped for, refused to transfer weapons. There are certain attempts to buy through third countries  to import weapons on a more or less large scale. Now they are trying it with Myanmar. We'll see what happens over time. But in fact, Russia is limited in the issue of weapons to, let's say, Iran."

Background:

On Friday, 24 February, President Joe Biden said the US "would respond" if China were to supply Russia with lethal weapons in its war against Ukraine.

On Sunday, 19 February, Anthony Blinken, US Secretary of State, confirmed media reports about China discussing the possibility of providing Russia with lethal military aid that could be directed to support aggression against Ukraine.

According to earlier reports, the Biden administration expressed concern to Beijing over evidence that Chinese companies were selling non-lethal equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine, including bulletproof vests and helmets.

William Burns, Director of the US Central Intelligence Agency, has confirmed that the Chinese government is considering providing Russia with lethal weapons for the war against Ukraine, although a final decision has yet to be made.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!






(Bloomberg) -- Representative Elissa Slotkin announced a bid for the US Senate seat being vacated by Michigan Democrat Debbie Stabenow, kicking off what is likely to be a crowded field for the coveted spot.

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In a video announcement, Slotkin said the country seems to be to be living crisis to crisis, and highlighted the challenges of middle-class life.

This is why Im running for the United States Senate, Slotkin said, becoming the first Democrat to enter the race. We need a new generation of leaders that thinks differently, works harder and never forgets that we are public servants.

Slotkin, 46, is a former CIA officer who won a tough reelection fight in November. Republicans already said they were hoping to flip her House seat in 2024.

Democrats will be fighting to hold the Senate seat in order to maintain their 51-49 majority. The party will also have to defend seats in other key states including West Virginia, Arizona, Montana and Ohio.

Senator Sherrod Brown has said he is running for reelection in Ohio and Montanas Senator Jon Tester is also hoping to return. Joe Manchin, the powerful Democrat from Republican-dominant West Virginia, has not yet announced his plans.

Democrats face a tough Senate landscape in 2024 with 23 seats held by Democrats or senators who caucus with Democrats up for reelection, compared with only 10 seats currently held by Republicans.

--With assistance from Billy House.

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Deputies are warning women to be vigilant after another attack and sexual assault at a bus stop on a busy Orange County Road.

Investigators said the suspect was armed and wore a mask and are asking the public for help in solving this string of crimes.

The attacks happened at bus stops in the Pine Hills area, with the latest attack happening at the bus stop on Hiawassee Road and Hennepin Boulevard.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

Three different women have been sexually assaulted within about a mile of each other. Two women were attacked overnight on Feb. 2 at a bus stop on Hiawassee Road and River Oaks Drive. Then around 6 a.m. this past Saturday, another attack happened down the road Hiawassee Road and Hennepin Boulevard.

So far, the only suspect description deputies received is a man with a mask about 5 feet 4 inches tall.

Channel 9 spoke with investigators on Monday to find out what they are doing to track this suspect down. Deputies plan to increase patrols to look for suspicious activity in the area and are asking the public if you see something, say something.

Read: Buc-ees receives approval for new Central Florida location; heres where it will be

Deputies are also asking residents to check their cameras to see if the suspect was captured on video.

April Hopper told Channel 9 that she has been using the bus to get around Pine Hills since she was 16 years old.

You never know whos lurking in the dark and harboring over you, Hopper said. Ill tell you one thing they better not run up on me. Ive got something for them.

Read: DeSantis signs law dissolving Reedy Creek, putting Disneys improvement district under state control

Lynx told Channel 9 it plans to install more lights at the Pine Hills transfer station to increase visibility and has trimmed the surrounding grass so people cant hide in the bushes. Lynx is also working with the sheriffs office on safety procedures.

Deputies have not confirmed whether these cases are all connected.

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Meanwhile. sex crimes detective Evan Avila is asking everyone to stay vigilant while they keep an eye out for suspects.

Read: Study: Zero-calorie sweetener linked to increased risk of stroke, death

If you see someone with a mask post-COVID-19, if it gives you pause call law enforcement and we can get someone out your way, Avila said.

Pine Hills community groups are also talking to both lynx and the sheriffs office about making this area safer.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
The Russian occupiers are increasing the intensity of assault operations, the most difficult for Ukraines Defence Forces is the Bakhmut front.

Source: Deputy Defence Minister Anna Maliar on Telegram

Quote: "The situation at the front is difficult. The Russian army is increasing the intensity of assault operations. The most difficult situation is on the Bakhmut front.

Russia uses the tactics of exhaustion and destruction during offensive operations. At the same time, Russia suffers significant losses, losing from 600 to 1,000 people daily."

Details: She added that the Defence Forces of Ukraine are conducting active defensive actions in conditions of the quantitative superiority of Russia.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Former Disney CEO Bob Chapek last year complained to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) of pressure to publicly oppose legislation seeking to restrict how sexual orientation and gender identity are talked about in public schools, according to the governors new memoir.

Chapek, who was ousted from the company in November, allegedly told DeSantis last year that he was being strong-armed into condemning the states Parental Rights in Education bill  known to its critics as the Dont Say Gay bill.

As the controversy over the Parental Rights in Education bill was coming to a head, Chapek called me. He did not want Disney to get involved, but he was getting a lot of pressure to weigh in against the bill, DeSantis writes in his upcoming book, The Courage to be Free: Floridas Blueprint for Americas Revival, according to Fox News, which obtained the memoir.

We get pressured all the time, Chapek reportedly told DeSantis. But this time is different. I havent seen anything like this before.

Pushback to the bill  whose sponsor, Florida Republican Rep. Joe Harding, resigned late last year after being indicted on charges of money laundering and wire fraud  began almost immediately following its introduction in January 2022.

President Biden and Education Secretary Miguel Cardona condemned the measure as hateful, and Chasten Buttigieg, the husband of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, accused DeSantis of purposefully making your state a harder place for LGBTQ kids to survive in.

Hundreds of Florida students staged walkouts to protest the bill as it moved through the legislature, calling the measure regressive and homophobic and discriminatory.

In March, Chapek wrote in a company-wide email that he had met with LGBTQ leaders at Disney in a meeting he described as meaningful, illuminating, and at times deeply moving. But the former Disney executive added that he would not publicly condemn the bill because corporate statements do very little to change outcomes or minds and are often weaponized by one side or the other to further divide and inflame.

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Chapek backpedaled just days later during the companys annual shareholder meeting, telling investors that he had called DeSantis to express concerns about the bills potential to unfairly target gay, lesbian, nonbinary and transgender kids and families. By that point, however, the measure had already advanced through the legislature and was on its way to the governors desk, where it was signed into law later that month.

DeSantis in his book says Chapek ultimately caved to leftist media and activist pressure and pressed the false narrative against the bill.

Later, in a March 28 statement, Disney said the legislation should never have passed and should never have been signed into law and vowed to support state and national organizations working to challenge the law in the courts.

We are dedicated to standing up for the rights and safety of LGBTQ+ members of the Disney family, as well as the LGBTQ+ community in Florida and across the country, a spokesperson for The Walt Disney Company said in the statement.

One month later, the Florida legislature passed a bill to dissolve Walt Disney Worlds special governing district, which allows the park to operate with the same authority and responsibility as a local government. Legislation passed earlier this month during a special session would require DeSantis to appoint a five-member board of directors to oversee the parks governing district.

DeSantiss new memoir will hit bookstore shelves on Tuesday, according to publisher HarperCollins.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Several Republican members of Congress and donors who are longtime supporters of former President Donald Trump attended a retreat hosted by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis over the weekend, just four miles away from Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, as DeSantis mulls a potential presidential run in 2024.

Trump held his own donor gathering last Thursday at Mar-a-Lago.

More than a hundred attended DeSantis's gathering, which was meant to connect several of the governor's longtime donors and allies, a sign that Republicans are keeping their options open in 2024. DeSantis himself moderated panel discussions centered around immigration, COVID-19 and the "Florida Blueprint" that his 19-point re-election win in 2022 could provide for the rest of the country.

According to event attendees, notable figures who were in Palm Beach, Fla. for DeSantis' retreat include Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, who spoke at a panel about the "medical establishment." DeSantis has been critical of big pharmaceutical companies, and has tapped into the anti-vaccine flank of the Republican party with his ban of vaccine mandates and questions his office raised about the safety of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.

Still, the attendance of Johnson and other Republicans doesn't mean they'd back DeSantis, should he decide to run. Johnson has been a staunch Trump ally, and his spokesperson, Corinne Day, said he "historically does not endorse in primaries and plans to continue this trend and remain impartial in 2024."

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, a Republican leader in the first state to kick off the Republican nominating process in 2024, spoke at a panel to discuss the governor's "Freedom Blueprint," which focuses on school board elections.

Reynolds has held several events with 2024 candidates and potential candidates, including this past week with Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, who is so far the only other major declared GOP presidential candidate besides Trump. Reynolds has previously said she would not endorse in the 2024 primary.

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"You'll see her introducing and welcoming all candidates to Iowa, just like she did with Haley and Scott this week," a person close to the governor said.

Sens. Mike Lee of Utah and Tom Cotton of Arkansas, as well as Reps. Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Chip Roy of Texas also attended the DeSantis event. Massie has called DeSantis "is the best governor in the United States."

Adam Laxalt, a former candidate for Nevada Senate and state attorney general who was also DeSantis' roommate during naval officer training, and former Arizona Senate candidate Jim Lamon were at the retreat.

Roy Bailey, a Texas donor and fundraiser who was the national co-chair of Trump's joint fundraising operation with the Republican National Committee in 2020, was also spotted at the retreat. Former Trump-era White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney was also there.

Former Congressman David McIntosh, president of the influential conservative economic group Club for Growth, was in attendance at the retreat. His group, which has not endorsed anyone at this early point in the primary, has conducted polling that shows DeSantis winning in a head-to-head matchup with Trump and is hosting its own donor retreat in March with potential 2024 candidates. While Trump was not invited, DeSantis, Haley, Scott, former Vice President Mike Pence, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who has also declared his 2024 presidential candidacy, are among those expected to be in attendance.

In most polls, Trump still receives a plurality of the support in a more crowded primary field. A Fox News poll released last Sunday showed Trump on top with 43%, followed by DeSantis with 28%.

Though he isn't a presidential candidate yet, DeSantis has already been on the receiving end of several attacks from Trump online and in interviews. In November 2022, Trump disparaged him as "Ron DeSanctimonious" and has since written social media posts criticizing the Florida governor's previous stances on Social Security and Medicare. Asked at a February press conference about another post in which Trump insinuated DeSantis drank with underage girls during his stint as a teacher in Georgia, DeSantis said, "I don't spend my time trying to smear other Republicans."

Earlier this month, multiple potential 2024 candidates attended a separate retreat hosted by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and arranged by strategist Karl Rove. The gathering was to raise money for the "Texas Voter Engagement Project," and was attended by Haley, Scott, Pence, Sununu, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who ran for president in 2016.

Trump and Haley are the only major declared candidates in the 2024 GOP primary race.

DeSantis has been coy about a potential 2024 run, at one point answering a reporter who asked in February about his timeline for a campaign, "Wouldn't you like to know?"

But DeSantis' three-day long retreat is viewed by Republicans as one sign he's preparing for a run and building the infrastructure for a potential campaign. Last Monday he traveled to three Democratic-run cities (Staten Island, Philadelphia, Chicago) for speeches and meetings with law enforcement officials.

Richard Porter, an RNC Committeeman from Illinois who attended his speech in Elmhurst, said the governor was "very well received" and that he's "putting governing first to build on his successes."

DeSantis' new book, a memoir, will be published Tuesday and kicks off a national book tour over the coming weeks for the governor that could take him through several presidential primary states. This weekend he'll be attending fundraisers in Texas and California, and is expected to skip the Conservative Political Action Committee conference in Washington D.C. later this week. Former President Trump and Haley are both expected to speak at the conference.

If he makes the final decision to enter the 2024 presidential race, DeSantis isn't expected to launch a campaign operation until after Florida's legislative session ends in May, which he emphasized in a recent interview with Fox News.

"I've got two big things coming up: One, I have a book coming out on Feb. 28... It's called 'The Courage to Be Free.' It talks about Florida's blueprint for American revival. So, we're going to go on a tour on that. We're going to sell some books, we're going to spread the message of Florida," he said. "Then on March 8, I have our Legislative Session that's kicking off.

"This is going to be the most productive Legislative Session we have had across the board and I think people are going to be really excited  So those are what we're going to be doing over these next few months, as we get beyond that, then we can decide from there," he added.

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NEW YORK (AP)  Republican presidential contenders typically fight for prime speaking slots at the Conservative Political Action Conference. But as conservative activists gather in suburban Washington this week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will be courting donors more than a thousand miles away in Texas and California.

The apparent CPAC snub is nothing new for DeSantis, who has emerged in the early phase of the 2024 presidential election as a leading contender for the GOP nomination even as he ignores many conventions of modern politics.

DeSantis is a frequent voice in conservative cultural fights on cable television, but he often avoids gatherings of fellow Republican governors and party leaders, who are quick to complain in private about his go-it-alone approach. He is the only top-tier presidential prospect yet to court voters in Iowa, New Hampshire or South Carolina, the states hosting the GOP's opening presidential primary contests. And he is often at odds with the press, refusing even to notify local media of last week's rare three-state tour with law enforcement.

Indeed, as DeSantis moves toward a White House run, it is becoming increasingly clear that the 44-year-old Republican governor will manage his presidential aspirations in his own way, on his own timeline, with or without allies in national GOP leadership or relationships with the press.

DeSantis has, in his style and the actions hes taken as governor, shown a willingness to fight the traditional powers that be, the establishment, said David McIntosh, president of the Club for Growth, an influential conservative group based in Washington. McIntosh described DeSantis style as refreshing" and suggested the GOP is ready to move on from former President Donald Trump.

For now, DeSantis is perhaps the most potent threat to Trump's effort to win the GOP nomination for the third time. The Club for Growth will host DeSantis among a half-dozen presidential prospects at a closed-door retreat in Florida next weekend with top donors. Trump is not invited.

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Meanwhile, DeSantis has quietly begun to expand his political coalition on his terms just as he releases a book, The Courage to be Free, which comes out Tuesday.

He spent the weekend huddled behind closed doors at a south Florida luxury hotel for a Freedom Blueprint retreat with more than 100 donors, elected officials and conservative influencers. The attendees included former Trump chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton and Texas-based donor Roy Bailey, a former member of Trump's national finance committee.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee were also in attendance, along with Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, Utah Sen. Mike Lee, Texas Rep. Chip Roy and Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie.

Fox News host Laura Ingraham hosted a fireside chat with DeSantis on Sunday before he joined a fighting back against woke discussion with Chaya Raichik, who runs the Libs of TikTok social media account.

Details from the gathering were disclosed by participants who requested anonymity to discuss the the private event.

Trump was largely ignored throughout the weekend retreat, although conservative commentator Ann Coulter seized on his failure to build a wall spanning the entire U.S.-Mexico border during a Saturday panel discussion with DeSantis on border security, according to one person in the room. She accused the former president of never actually wanting to build it in the first place.

In the coming days and weeks, DeSantis will use the release of his book to introduce himself to voters beyond Florida, having established his political dominance there last fall by winning reelection by more than 19 percentage points.

He is expected to make his first appearances in key states on the primary calendar such as Iowa and New Hampshire in the coming weeks in addition to general election battlegrounds like Georgia and Pennsylvania. Last week, he made surprise stops in New York City, Philadelphia and Chicago to court law enforcement leaders, although the events were private and he did not notify local media.

The Florida governor is already scheduled to headline two Republican fundraisers in Texas on Saturday. The next day hell speak at a $500-a-head reception for the GOP of Orange County, California. Hell serve as the keynote speaker for the Alabama GOP the following week.

While he has begun to expand his profile, DeSantis has done far less than most of the early 2024 class to connect with primary voters and would-be allies in key states.

He has long avoided gatherings of Republican governors or top GOP officials, who privately condemn his approach as arrogant. He's never set foot in Iowa.

Former New Hampshire GOP chair Jennifer Horn noted that Republican primary voters often embrace anti-establishment candidates who are willing to create their own lane or take their own path.

But when youre running for president, and in this environment, I think he has to be careful not to be a victim of his own arrogance, she said. He has this belief that he knows better than everyone about everything, and thats never a good thing.

Meanwhile, DeSantis' team feels no urgency to enter the 2024 contest, which already features three Republican candidates. Trump announced three months ago.

He's also shown no interest in responding to Trump's increasingly personal attacks, which include recent social media posts suggesting that DeSantis behaved inappropriately with underage girls when he briefly taught high school in his early 20s.

Trump refers to the Florida governor as Ron DeSanctimonious" and Meatball Ron.

By contrast, DeSantis in his new book actually credits Trump for helping him win the Florida governorship in 2018.

I knew that a Trump endorsement would provide me with the exposure to GOP primary voters across the State of Florida, and I was confident that many would see me as a good candidate once they learned about my record, DeSantis writes, according to an early copy obtained by the Guardian.

Trump's increasing focus on DeSantis may unintentionally help the Florida governor by defining him as the strongest Republican Trump alternative, according to Sam Nunberg, a former Trump aide turned critic.

Look, Donald is worried, and if I was working for him, Id say he needs to update the playbook, Nunberg said.

In the meantime, DeSantis is focused on expanding his conservative agenda in Florida's looming state legislative session, which runs from March through May.

Already, he has pushed to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs from Floridas public universities and colleges. Among his other priorities: allowing people to carry guns in public without a permit; weakening laws protecting journalists from lawsuits; and cracking down on illegal immigration, including a plan to eliminate in-state tuition for college students in the country illegally.

In a nod to his political strength, DeSantis is under attack from a growing group of Republican rivals.

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu publicly condemned DeSantis' decision to use the levers of government to punish private businesses like Disney that push back against his policy priorities. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem's team has criticized DeSantis' record on abortion as insufficiently conservative.

DeSantis did himself no favors inside the Republican National Committee last month when he publicly sided with RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel's challenger during her bitter reelection fight. McDaniel easily won reelection to her post.

We are going to move forward. And thats what Im focused on, McDaniel said Sunday on CNN's State of the Union" when asked about her relationship with DeSantis. The one thing Republicans can do to make sure we dont win is fight each other all the time.

___

This story has been corrected to show Noem is governor of South Dakota, not North Dakota.
Gov. Ron DeSantis delivers remarks during a roundtable discussion with theme park leaders about safety protocols and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, on Wednesday, August 26, 2020. (oe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

DeSantis has officially stripped Disney World of its self-governing status.

He now gets to oversee the district that's housing Disney through a state-run board.

DeSantis appointed political allies to the board, which have to be approved by the Florida Senate.

Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis abolished Walt Disney World's special authority on Monday, nearly 11 months after the company spoke out publicly against his controversial education agenda.

The new law, which gives the governor more power over Disney World, locks in a legislative win for DeSantis, who is expected to mount a 2024 presidential run in the months ahead.

The DeSantis-Disney battle marked one of the most prominent examples of how DeSantis has used the power of state government to overrule corporations and local entities, breaking with stated political philosophies of other conservatives.

The governor retaliated against the family-favorite resort and theme park, which is also the largest private employer in the state, after the company publicly pledged to work toward repealing a law employees and LGBTQ rights advocates called "Don't Say Gay."

"Today, the corporate kingdom finally comes to an end," DeSantis said during a press conference on Monday, held at a fire station on Disney property. "There's a new sheriff in town, and accountability will be the order of the day."

DeSantis also his new nominations for the board. They include Bridget Ziegler, who co-founded the conservative Moms for Liberty and is wife to Christian Ziegler, the new chair of Republican Party of Florida. He made lawyer Martin Garcia of Tampa, whose private investment firm contributed to DeSantis' election, the new chair.

DeSantis also appointed Seminole County attorney Michael Sasso; Ron Peri, CEO of The Gathering USA, a Christian ministry; and Clearwater attorney Brian Aungst to the board.

Under the law, the state senate has to confirm the new board members. They're set to meet next week, DeSantis said.

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The end of Disney's special district

Disney's district previously was controlled under the name Reedy Creek Improvement District. Under the new law, the district is renamed to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. The board will have the power to control property taxes, issue bonds, and control services such as roads, sewer systems, parking, and fire protection.

Ever since Disney founded its Florida theme park in 1967, it got to pick most board members for its district because it owned a majority of the land. That gave Disney exceptional control over zoning and infrastructure, essentially giving the company the same kind of power that a county government would have.

Under the new law, board members cannot be employees, owners, or operators at Disney World.

DeSantis signed a bill into law to dissolve the district last year, but several questions were left unanswered about how the district would run, including how to pay off Reedy Creek's nearly $1 billion in debt. DeSantis said the new law, written by the legislature during a special session in February, would help ensure that Disney would pay the debt versus the residents of Orange and Osceola Counties.

Disney did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider.

DeSantis said several times during the press conference that Disney World now had to follow the same rules as other Florida theme parks. Universal Studios, for instance, didn't have the same arrangement with the state as Disney.

"These are decades of subsidies and benefits that have really accumulated to this one powerful company, and now we're basically just on an even playing field, and what's good for SeaWorld is good for Disney," DeSantis said.

Democratic state Rep. Anna Eskamani of Orlando criticized the governor in a statement, saying that the move from DeSantis "seals his hostile takeover" of the district and accused him of appointing "conservative cronies" to the new board.

"It's absolutely wild to see a self-proclaimed capitalist like DeSantis celebrate the government takeover of a private board," she said.

State Sen. Jason Pizzo, a Democrat representing parts of Broward and Miami-Dade, predicted this month that Disney was angling to challenge the law in court and then drag out the issue until DeSantis leaves office to run for president.

Criticism has also come from fellow Republicans. Former Vice President Mike Pence, who is also expected to mount a presidential run, said last week on CNBC's "Squawk Box" that he thought DeSantis went too far.

"Disney stepped into the fray, they lost, but then the taxing authority  that was beyond the scope of what I, as a conservative, limited-government Republican would be prepared to do," he said.

The origins of DeSantis taking on Disney

At the heart of DeSantis action against Disney is the company's public objections to Florida school laws colloquially known as "don't say gay."

Formally known as the Parental Rights in Education Act, the law bans teachers from instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, though it also contains ambiguous language that such instruction in higher grades must be "age appropriate or developmentally appropriate."

Some Florida school boards have shown they're confused about how to follow the new rules about teachings, and critics have said they're worried about chilling the speech of LGBTQ teachers or parents, and about students being bullied or outed to families who don't accept them.

Disney's then-CEO Bob Chapek at first attempted to to remain on sidelines, but after bill's passage, Chapek emailed Disney employees apologizing for not opposing the bill, and promised to halt all political donations in Florida.

DeSantis divulges in his forthcoming book, "The Courage to Be Free," out Tuesday, that Chapek called him to complain about the "pressure" he faced from employees, according to an excerpt provided to Fox News.

His successor, Bob Iger, hasn't said how the company would fight Florida but told employees during a town hall leaked to CNBC that "one of the core values of our storytelling is inclusion and acceptance and tolerance."

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Brendan O'Brien

CHICAGO (Reuters) - Crews in central Oklahoma on Monday were assessing the damage and clearing debris left behind by a string of rare February tornadoes that roared through the area overnight, knocking out power to thousands of customers and injuring a dozen people.

In Norman, 12 people were taken to the hospital after suffering minor injuries in the storms that rolled through and near the city at around 11 p.m. local time on Sunday. None of the injuries were life-threatening, Norman Chief of Police Kevin Foster said during a news conference on Monday.

The twister was one of seven that touched down in Oklahoma and two more were reported in Kansas overnight, the National Weather Service said.

Several homes, businesses and schools in Norman, which has about 128,000 residents, were damaged in the storms, he said.

Some 13,000 homes and businesses were without power across Oklahoma, Poweroutage.us reported.

Video footage and photographs of the destruction on local news and social media showed power lines lying in the middle of roadways, debris strewn across neighborhoods and roofs ripped off buildings. One photo showed a red sedan flipped over and resting on top of another vehicle.

"A lot of real strong wind," George Reich, a homeowner in Shawnee, a town east of Oklahoma City, told an ABC affiliate. "Wood and debris started flying. I jumped in the backseat of a car in the garage real quick."

Experts say the growing frequency and intensity of such storms, interspersed with extreme heat and dry spells, are symptoms of climate change.

"It was pretty rare, historic in the amount" of wind shear, said Bruce Thoren, a National Weather Service meteorologist in Norman, regarding the Oklahoma twisters, noting that the state has seen only 51 tornadoes in February since 1950.

Four additional twisters were reported in Illinois on Monday morning but none caused significant damage, according to online reports by the National Weather Service.

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By Monday afternoon, the service had issued several additional tornado advisories for parts of Indiana, where they warned of strong storms and damaging winds throughout the day.

"TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building," the weather service said in one tornado warning for the Indianapolis area on Monday afternoon.

The rough weather comes after days of a winter storm clobbered the U.S. Plains, Midwest and Great Lakes regions. More than 155,000 homes and businesses in Michigan remained without power on Monday, Poweroutage.us reported.

Parts of California spent the weekend dealing with heavy snows in higher elevations, rain and hail in the flatlands and frigid temperatures in parts of the state that are known of its mild weather.

(Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Chicago; Editing by Angus MacSwanand Sandra Maler)
One of Detroit's very own ranks as the top art museum in the U.S. according to a new survey.

USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice 2023 contest voters ranked the Detroit Institute of Art (DIA) as the No. 1 art museum in the United States.

How does USA Today make the 10Best Readers' Choice lists?

A panel of experts with a background in a variety of fields, mainly travel, selects the top 20 destinations. After the top 20 are decided, it's narrowed down by readers, who select the top 10 by vote.

In 2022, the DIA ranked No. 5 on the list and in 2021 it was ranked No. 6.

USA Today said in the article that the DIA "maintains a collection of 65,000 works, among the largest and most comprehensive in the United States." Visitors can visit over 100 galleries.

The top 10 best art museum list

Detroit Institute of Arts - Detroit American Visionary Art Museum - Baltimore IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts - Santa Fe, New Mexico Andy Warhol Museum - Pittsburgh National Museum of Wildlife Art - Jackson, Wyoming Newfields - Indianapolis Booth Western Art Museum - Cartersville, Georgia Heard Museum - Phoenix Getty Center - Los Angeles Museum of International Folk Art - Santa Fe, New Mexico

Visiting the DIA

Membership at the DIA starts at $65 for the whole year and includes free museum entry, discounts at the DIA Shop, one free entry to a ticketed exhibition, plus additional offers.

Free general admission tickets are available for residents in Wayne, Macomb, and Oakland counties.

Hours of operation:

Monday- Closed

Tuesday through Thursday- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday- 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ticket prices:

Adult - $14

Youth (6-17) - $6

Children (5 and under)- Free

Members - Free

Parking: $7

The DIA is located at 5200 Woodward Ave. in Detroit.

Current events and exhibits at the DIA

"Printmaking in the Twenty-First Century": Features artwork from contemporary printmakers featuring posters, prints, and books.

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This exhibit is free with general admission.

The museum also offers off-site exhibitions, scavenger hunts for kids and guided tours.

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Dining and shopping operations at the DIA

Dining

Kresge Court: A indoor courtyard that serves wine, soup, salads, coffee plus additional eats.

Tuesday through Thursday - 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Friday - 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday- 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Cafe DIA: Quick grab-and-go snacks and bites to eat. Serves your typical American food menu; pizza, sandwiches, soups.

Tuesday through Thursday- 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Friday - 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. then 4 to 6 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday- 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Shopping

DIA Shop: Every purchase at the shop helps fund the DIA's exhibitions and programs. DIA members receive a 10% discount and two special discounts weeks every year. The shop specializes in Detroit gear and items representing the city.

The shop is open daily until 30 minutes after the museum closes. There is a 24-hour online shop as well.

To learn more about the DIA, go to its website.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit Institute of Art ranked the number one art museum in the U.S.
The distributor of the "Dilbert" comic strip, a cartoon dating 1989 and satirizes office life, announced Sunday that it's ending their relationship with the cartoon's creator, Scott Adams, as the cartoonist's comments about race "do not align with our core values." The cartoon has also been dumped by many newspapers around the world.

On Twitter, Andrews McMeel Universal (AMU) announced the break up in a statement on behalf of AMU Chairman Hugh Andrews and the company's CEO and president, Andy Sareyan.

"As a media and communications company, AMU values free speech. We are proud to promote and share many different voices and perspectives. But we will never support any commentary rooted in discrimination or hate. Recent comments by Scott Adams regarding race and race relations do not align with our core values as a company," the statement reads.

"Our creator-first approach is foundational to AMU, and we deeply value our relationships with our creators. However, in the case with Adams, our vision and principles are not compatible."

What sparked the 'Dilbert' blacklash?

The Dilbert creator drew backlash after his recent Youtube episode on Feb. 22, where he referred to Black Americans as a "hate group."

On the episode, Adams shared results from a Rasmussen Reports survey that asked respondents if they agreed with the statement: "It's OK to be white." The cartoonist emphasizes that 26 percent of Black people disagreed, which means, to him, that African-Americans result as a "hate group."

"If nearly half of all Blacks are not OK with white people ... that's a hate group," Adams said in the Youtube video. "And I don't want to have anything to do with them."

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"I would say, based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to white people is to get the hell away from Black people," Adams continues. "Just get the fuck away. Wherever you have to go, just get away. Because there's no fixing this. This can't be fixed."

Scott Adams, the creator of "Dilbert", the cartoon character that lampoons the absurdities of corporate life, poses with two "Dilbert" characters at a party January 8, 1999 in Pasadena. The party celebrated the new half-hour animated series "Dilbert", which debuts on the UPN television network January 25.

The reaction: Newspapers around the world drop 'Dilbert'

As predicted by the creator, hundreds of newspapers dropped Dilbert. In the U.S., media giants like the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, the USA Today, and others will no longer carry the satirical strip.

"In light of Scott Adams's recent statements promoting segregation, the Washington Post has ceased publication of the Dilbert comic strip," the newspaper released in a statement.

Another statement from the Los Angeles Times read, "Cartoonist Scott Adams made racist comments in a YouTube livestream [on Feb. 22], offensive remarks that the Times rejects."

The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star and Postmedia papers in Canada also cut ties with Adams.

"While we respect and encourage free speech, his views do not align with our editorial or business values as an organization," the company tweeted.

Following recent discriminatory comments by Dilbert creator Scott Adams, The Globe and Mail has decided to discontinue publishing his comic. While we respect and encourage free speech, his views do not align with our editorial or business values as an organization.  The Globe and Mail (@globeandmail) February 26, 2023

Cartoonist Scott Adams: 'By Monday, I should be mostly cancelled'

"By Monday, I should be mostly cancelled.' So most of my income will be gone by next week," Adams said about his racist remarks. "My reputation for the rest of my life is destroyed. You can't come back from this."

Twitter CEO Elon Musk, Twitter CEO, came to Adams' defence on his platform, claiming that "the media is racist."

"For a *very* long time, U.S. media was racist against non-white people, now they're racist against whites & Asians," he added. "Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America. Maybe they can try not being racist," he tweeted.

Others on social media were not having it.

White people should get the hell away from Black people



Dilbert cartoonist, Scott Adams, pulled his Klan mask all the way off. I respect the white supremacy rhetoric he spouted with his whole chest.



Followed that cartoon for decadesIm such a mug. pic.twitter.com/fqrdSz5D0O  Michael Morgan (@mikewhoatv) February 24, 2023

Can you imagine forcefully making black humans capital, abusing, enslaving and raping them, wonder why they arent generally well adjusted in the society you legally kept them from advancing in and referring to those people as the hate group.



Hilarious.  Heliacal Heifer (@LoosCoilz) February 25, 2023

Scott Adams says his career is destroyed and most of his income will be gone by next week after The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times and other publications dropped his popular cartoon, #Dilbert

Racism has consequences. I dont feel sorry for him, do you?  bikerdude (@bikerdude_vet) February 27, 2023

I like the fact that he claimed he would not help black people, as if dilbert ever helped black people ever at any point in history. I don't think most black people even knew it existed until his racist comments   Alejandro Perez (@kratosBVLL) February 27, 2023

My local newspaper, The Morning Call, in the Lehigh Valley, PA will no longer carry the Dilbert comic strip. They said specifically division and racism is not acceptable in their publication. Thank you, Morning Call.  Frank Mitman (@frankdpi) February 27, 2023
Raquel Evita Saraswati was a name well-known to well-meaning people in Philadelphia.

She was a bronze-hued, Jersey-born spokesperson for Muslim and LGBTQ causes in fashionable hijabs, an adviser and confidant to local nonprofits. The National Organization for Women's Philadelphia chapter named her a Woman of the Year. Nonprofit Rad Girls declared her Rad Girl of the Year. She served on the citys Mayors Commission on LGBT Affairs.

And until last week, she was the chief equity and inclusion officer for the American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker-founded service organization that supports social justice causes all over the country and world.

But that role came to an abrupt end, amid a blizzard of controversy.

According to allegations in an open letter circulated on Feb. 10 by a group of individuals who care deeply about AFSC, Saraswati was living a lie.

The meticulously footnoted letter accused her of cultural vulturism, alleging that Saraswati, formerly known as Rachel or Raquel Seidel, misrepresented herself as having Arab, Latinx and South Asian heritage.

Saraswati had also served as a commentator about Muslim extremism for conservative news outlets including FOX News and Newsmax. She spoke about the difficulties Muslim women face in a documentary by media company Clarion Project, listed until 2020 as an anti-Muslim group by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Screenshot of activist Raquel Saraswati in the documentary Honor Diaries, from nonprofit group The Clarion Project, The group, whose stated purpose is to fight extremism, has been criticized as fomenting anti-Muslim sentiment.

After the social media and tabloid furor that followed, Saraswati will separate from AFSC, confirmed spokesperson Layne Mullett in an email to USA TODAY Network.

Raquel Saraswati, who is facing public allegations that she misrepresented her background and past associations, has informed us of her intention to separate from the organization, Mullett wrote.

The AFSC supported Saraswati in leaving the organization, Mullett wrote, calling the decision difficult and deeply personal.

Raquel Saraswati's background called into question

Saraswati appears to have deleted or locked most social media and did not respond to a request for comment.

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But the open letter, and subsequent reporting by nonprofit news site The Intercept, cited genealogical research and interviews with family members to assert that Saraswati was of German, British and Calabrese Italian heritage. The letter also documents early photographs in which Saraswati appears to have a lighter skin tone.

USA TODAY Network also contacted members of Saraswatis immediate family, who confirmed European heritage but otherwise declined to comment.

Saraswatis case echoes other prominent examples of public figures accused of misrepresenting their heritage. This includes New York Republican Rep. George Santos false claims of being Jewish and a descendant of Holocaust survivors and former Spokane, Washington, NAACP chapter president Rachel Dolezal (now Nkechi Diallo), who claims African American identity.

More:NY Rep. George Santos, who lied about being Jewish, recognizes Auschwitz anniversary

More:Rachel Dolezal: 'I identify as black'

In previous newspaper articles going back to the mid-2000s, Saraswati was identified as belonging to Arab and Latinx or South Asian heritage.

In a 2004 piece about LGBTQ weddings, the Boston Globe reported that Saraswati, then known as Seidel, planned a wedding that respected her Arab and Latin traditions. Two years later, an article in India New England News, about Indian American couples, documented Saraswatis difficulty finding appropriate Indian decor.

Human resources professional Oskar Henry Castro, who participated in ASFC's hiring committee for Saraswati, told The Intercept that Saraswati had represented herself as multiethnic and as a queer person of color, who happens to be a Muslim in hiring interviews he saw.

I definitely feel conned.  I feel deceived, he told The Intercept.

Some fear Saraswati scandal will damage communities of color

Coverage in tabloids mostly focused attention on personal or family drama. But other commentators worry about damage to people of color or to the mission of organizations like AFSC.

Will the organization investigate why a member of its most senior leadership has so profoundly eroded trust among the people of color on staff and in the communities that the organization serves? reads the open letter, citing a Quaker commitment to integrity.

This is not about proving ones heritage but about lying, misrepresentation and taking opportunities from actual women of color, tweeted documentarian Laila Al-Arian, who referred to Saraswati as a Rachel Dolezal of the Muslim community.

Raquel Saraswati, appearing on a program by far-right media outlet Newsmax in a 2015 piece about extremism among Muslims.

Journalist Sana Saeed, who called attention to Saraswatis heritage as early as 2015, tweeted that focusing on the salacious aspects of Saraswatis story elides the harm shes done  especially the years she worked as essentially a native informant with anti-Muslim orgs & platforms.

So far, Saraswati has been publicly silent.

AFSC has given Raquel the opportunity to address the allegations against her, and Raquel stands by her identity, read a statement to The Intercept from AFSCs Mullett, prior to Saraswatis resignation.

A broadly circulated screenshot of a social media post, purportedly from Saraswati, promised she would provide answers when she was able.

But for now, her Twitter account is locked. Her Facebook and Instagram pages appear to have been taken offline. A TikTok account under her name, with 1,200followers, consists of two cat videos and a speech by addiction expert Gabor Mate.

Trauma creates coping mechanisms, begins the video.

If you get the message that you are not good enough, that you are not worthy enough, it continues, then you might spend the rest of your life trying to prove that you are.

Matthew Korfhage is a Philadelphia-based reporter for USA TODAY Network. Follow him on Twitter @matthewkorfhage or email mkorfhage@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: Diversity exec Saraswati resigns amid claims she lied about her race
ULA Enterprise Flight

DNA from four former United States presidents will be going to space.

Texas-based space burial company Celestis will honor George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan by adding their symbolic remains to the aerospace firm's upcoming deep space remembrance Enterprise Flight, along with several deceased "Star Trek" legends and science fiction superstars. The flight was announced in a Celestis blog post on Feb. 20, President's Day

In addition to the cremated remains and DNA samples of Nichelle Nichols, DeForest Kelley, "Star Trek" creator Gene Roddenberry, his wife Majel Barrett Roddenberry, "Star Trek" engineer James "Scotty" Doohan and "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" VFX master Douglas Trumbull and several others, these presidential offerings will launch sometime this year in special capsules inside a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket.



Related: 'Star Trek' memorial flight adds 2 more names to its Enterprise mission

seven small metal capsules with the names of Star Trek cast and crew members

Here are details from Celestis' blog post:

Celestis, Inc., the pioneer and global leader in memorial spaceflights, announced today that in honor of Presidents Day and some of the nation's greatest leaders, they will be launching what we believe to be authenticated DNA of American Presidents George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan on their upcoming historic Enterprise Flight, humanity's first deep space time capsule. This, in turn, will make it the first time in history that any president has gone to space in any fashion symbolically or otherwise.

These hair samples, which were originally from the Louis Mushro collection, along with the associated Certificates of Authenticity, were gifted to Celestis by an anonymous donor for the purpose of being included on a deep space mission. Louis Mushro was a well-known celebrity hair collector and appraiser who built a global reputation as the expert in this field before his passing in 2014. These hair samples have been in a climate-controlled facility for several years in preparation for this mission.

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The space burial company Celestis will launch a Star Trek mission carrying 150 capsules with cremated human remains and DNA on the first flight of the Vulcan Centaur rocket by the United Launch Alliance.

"Our Enterprise Flight is an historic mission by any standard," Charles M. Chafer, Co-Founder & CEO of Celestis, Inc., said in the company's blog post. "The overarching goal of Celestis is to assist human expansion throughout the solar system. By adding the DNA of these American icons to Enterprise, we establish a precursor for future human missions, and add to the historical record of human exploration of deep space."

This past November, Celestis included two more legacy names to their tribute journey with the inclusion of remains for Greg Jein, the VFX wizard who created many "Star Trek" series models, and "Star Trek" producer Robert H. Justman, who was known as Gene Rodenberry's "right hand man."

Celestis' first-ever Enterprise Flight is expected to travel from 93 million miles to 186 million miles (150 million to 300 million kilometers) into deep space beyond the Earth-moon system. Their honorary memorial mission will include over 200 flight capsules containing cremated ash remains, DNA material, personal messages and heartfelt greetings from international clients on an unforgettable voyage.

a scientist in a clean suit bends over a table containing small metal disks

RELATED STORIES:

 Nichelle Nichols of 'Star Trek' to boldly go on unique memorial spaceflight in 2022

 DNA of DeForest Kelley, Dr. 'Bones' McCoy from 'Star Trek,' will fly to space with original cast on memorial spaceflight

 Vulcan Centaur rocket: The space workhorse of tomorrow

Vulcan's main mission will be nudging the Pittsburgh aerospace company Astrobotic's Peregrine lunar lander towards the moon's surface. The Vulcan Centaur's upper stage will then venture further into deep space, eventually entering orbit around the sun and becoming humanity's most distant outpost called Enterprise Station.

The 2023 Enterprise Flight will also be carrying two prototype satellites for Amazon's internet constellation named Project Kuiper. For more details on Celestis' services, visit their official site.
Elvis Francois, the fisherman who said he survived by eating only ketchup when he was stranded at sea for 24 days, is now getting a boat from Heinz. The ketchup manufacturer first asked social media users to help track down Francois.

We need your help tracking down an amazing man with an amazing story, the company wrote on Feb. 14. Dont forget to share this post with all your friends so we can #FindTheKetchupBoatGuy.

The post Dominican Fisherman Who Ate Only Ketchup While Stranded Is Getting A Boat From Heinz appeared first on Blavity.

A media outlet known as Emo News then tracked down the fisherman in the Caribbean island of Dominica.

I knew Elvis lived in the community near me and I took a drive to go and look for him  and found him, Emerline Anselm, the CEO of Emo News, told Business Insider.

Anselm joined Francois in a live Facebook video on Thursday to prove that he has been located and that he was not an impersonator.

I would say Im a kind of mysterious person; I like to travel, Francois said in the video.

Weve hopped into your DMs  lets get Elvis his boat! a Heinz representative commented on the video.

Speaking to Insider, the Heinz representative said the company had spoken to Francois and its working through the logistics of gifting him a new boat.

Depending on the size of the boat I could use the boat to do fishing or tours of the Caribbean, Francois said according to Insider.

As Blavity previously reported, the 47-year-old man was rescued after being stranded on a boat for 24 days in the Caribbean sea.

I had no food. It was just a bottle of ketchup that was on the boat, garlic powder and Maggi (seasoning) so I mixed it up with some water, Francois said in a video shared by the navy, according to Vibe.

The Dominican man said severe weather dragged him into the sea while he was fixing his boat near Saint Martin island in December and he struggled to return to the shore.

Francois was saved after a pilot, who was flying near the area, noticed the word help written on the boat.
A Georgia man was arrested Monday morning after deputies said he led them on a chase through multiple counties in a stolen cement truck, according to WRDW.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

During the wild chase, the truck poured concrete all over I-20 between Appling and Thompson.





TRENDING STORIES:

Deputies said the truck was stolen around 9 a.m. at a gas station near Grovetown.

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Deputies and Georgia State Patrol troopers chased the west on I-20 through McDuffie and Taliferro counties. The driver dumped the cement near mile marker 175 in McDuffie County.

At one point a trooper riding in another troopers patrol car was able to shoot into the trucks radiator, which disabled the truck, WJBF reports.

All lanes of the highway were shut down while crews worked to clean up the concrete. The road has since reopened.

According to WJBF, the driver was taken into custody. That persons name has not been released and its unclear what charges were filed against him or her.
[Source]

Massachusetts transit police are searching for two individuals accused of a racially motivated attack on an Asian woman in the city of Somerville last week.

The incident, which saw the yelling of racial epithets at the woman, reportedly occurred at the Davis Square Station at around 5:39 p.m. on Feb. 20.

The victim, a female of Asian descent, was assaulted and verbally harassed with racial epithets, MBTA police said in a news release.

Surveillance images show two men wearing dark clothing and light-colored footwear and walking in the same direction.

More from NextShark: Japan air force member is latest to sue state over sexual harassment in military

The victim, who has not been identified, did not sustain any physical injuries.

Asian Americans have been the targets of multiple attacks on or near MBTA premises in the past two years.

More from NextShark: Burglars wanted for targeting Asian business owners, workers in New Jersey

Some incidents include the kidnapping and rape of a 64-year-old woman, the unprovoked shoving of a 92-year-old man, the assault of a 69-year-old man and the robbery of a 55-year-old womans shoulder bag.

Community leader Tina Lu, who started the Somerville Asian and Asian-American Family Network amid the COVID-19 pandemic, said the matter of anti-Asian hate should remain a priority.

These incidences still happen and so I think it's important to keep on raising the awareness and elevating the importance of Asian-American issues mental health, safety, Lu told WCVB.

More from NextShark: South Korean dating apps limit mask-wearing user photos amid complaints of mask fraud

Anyone with information about the individuals of interest is asked to contact the MBTA Criminal Investigations Unit at 617-222-1050.

More from NextShark: 'Crazy Rich Asians Star Nico Santos Mother Recovers From COVID-19
By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The Netherlands on Monday warned against hitting Big Tech with a so-called internet toll to help pay for billions of euros in network investments, saying such a move may breach net neutrality rules and lead to price hikes for Europeans.

The comments by Dutch Economic Affairs Minister Micky Adriaansens marked the first by an EU country after EU industry chief Thierry Breton kicked off a consultation last Thursday on who should foot the bill to roll out costly 5G and broadband.

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica, Telecom Italia and other operators have long lobbied for a Big Tech contribution and have found an ally in Breton, a former chief executive at Orange.

Among the companies that said an internet tax would undermine EU rules to treat all users equally are Alphabet Inc's Google, Apple Inc, Meta Platforms Inc, Netflix Inc, Amazon.com Inc and Microsoft Corp. These companies account for more than half of data internet traffic, according to telecom operators.

Adriaansens said the Dutch government had commissioned a study by economic consultancy Oxera which showed the drawbacks of such a tax.

"It will penalise the consumers," she told Reuters in an interview, saying that consumers who pay subscription fees to telecoms providers and also subscribe to streaming and video services may see the latter fees go up with Big Tech likely to pass on the internet tax.

"We should analyse the problem first and what the normal market reaction is to these challenges. The first one is the government in place to facilitate or are there other funds available or is it just the markets' responsibility to take care of this infrastructure?" Adriaansens said.

"I think that there is this concern that our infrastructure is not able to meet our expectations and our ambitions. So I understand that concern but I don't think that this is the way to go then, so fast," she said.

According to Oxera's study, Europe's telecoms providers have not been burdened with higher network costs despite the strong growth in internet data traffic. Oxera also found that these companies' operating profits have been boosted by network modernisation which has led to fewer employees and lower capital costs.

"Our analysis of the proposals for a levy shows that such a policy cannot robustly be shown to increase economic efficiency, and would potentially bring substantial transaction and set-up costs," the report said.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee in Brussels; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
Early voting officially began Monday for a Clayton County special election to vote on a new sheriff, state representative and a $435 million Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) for schools.

Current interim sheriff Levon Allen, Clarence Cox, Terry Evans, Dwayne Fabian and Chris Storey are all running to replace former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

In the race for State House District 75, Herman Drew Andrews (D), Della Ashley (R) and Eric W. Bell II (D) are running to fill the State House District 75 seat left by Mike Glanton. He resigned after 14 years in the Georgia House of Representatives.

A full sample ballet, including the question for the $435 SPLOST, can be found here.

Early voting will run through March 17. The polls are opening from 8 a.m. to 7 a.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturdays and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

For voters who want to submit an absentee ballot, the deadline to request a ballot is March 10.

TRENDING STORIES

Many eyes will be on who will win the election for Clayton County sheriff following the embattlement Hills career.

In late October, a federal jury found Hill guilty of violating civil rights of jail detainees. He was found guilty on six of his seven charges, and not guilty on the other charge.

In December, the state of Georgia revoked the law enforcement certification for former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill. Under Georgia law and POST rules, a police officer is not allowed to continue in that capacity with a felony conviction.

His sentencing is scheduled for March 14.
Last week, you might have seen that Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad (KLSE:CARLSBG) released its full-year result to the market. The early response was not positive, with shares down 5.0% to RM22.98 in the past week. Revenues of RM2.4b were in line with forecasts, although statutory earnings per share (EPS) came in below expectations at RM1.04, missing estimates by 7.8%. The analysts typically update their forecasts at each earnings report, and we can judge from their estimates whether their view of the company has changed or if there are any new concerns to be aware of. With this in mind, we've gathered the latest statutory forecasts to see what the analysts are expecting for next year.

Check out our latest analysis for Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad

Following the latest results, Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad's 13 analysts are now forecasting revenues of RM2.50b in 2023. This would be a credible 3.6% improvement in sales compared to the last 12 months. Per-share earnings are expected to grow 10% to RM1.14. Before this earnings report, the analysts had been forecasting revenues of RM2.51b and earnings per share (EPS) of RM1.18 in 2023. The analysts seem to have become a little more negative on the business after the latest results, given the small dip in their earnings per share numbers for next year.

The consensus price target held steady at RM25.61, with the analysts seemingly voting that their lower forecast earnings are not expected to lead to a lower stock price in the foreseeable future. The consensus price target is just an average of individual analyst targets, so - it could be handy to see how wide the range of underlying estimates is. There are some variant perceptions on Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad, with the most bullish analyst valuing it at RM30.77 and the most bearish at RM21.00 per share. There are definitely some different views on the stock, but the range of estimates is not wide enough as to imply that the situation is unforecastable, in our view.

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Looking at the bigger picture now, one of the ways we can make sense of these forecasts is to see how they measure up against both past performance and industry growth estimates. It's clear from the latest estimates that Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad's rate of growth is expected to accelerate meaningfully, with the forecast 3.6% annualised revenue growth to the end of 2023 noticeably faster than its historical growth of 1.6% p.a. over the past five years. Other similar companies in the industry (with analyst coverage) are also forecast to grow their revenue at 4.3% per year. Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad is expected to grow at about the same rate as its industry, so it's not clear that we can draw any conclusions from its growth relative to competitors.

The Bottom Line

The most important thing to take away is that the analysts downgraded their earnings per share estimates, showing that there has been a clear decline in sentiment following these results. They also reconfirmed their revenue estimates, with the company predicted to grow at about the same rate as the wider industry. There was no real change to the consensus price target, suggesting that the intrinsic value of the business has not undergone any major changes with the latest estimates.

With that in mind, we wouldn't be too quick to come to a conclusion on Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad. Long-term earnings power is much more important than next year's profits. At Simply Wall St, we have a full range of analyst estimates for Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad going out to 2025, and you can see them free on our platform here..

That said, it's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad (at least 1 which is significant) , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

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.

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An earthquake was recorded in Zakarpattia Oblast

The earthquake was recorded as having a magnitude of 3.3 on the Richter scale at a depth of two kilometers in the area of the village of Velyka Dobron, 19 kilometers west of the city of Mukachevo, Zakarpattia Oblast.

According to government assessments, the earthquake does not pose a threat to the population, though it was strongly felt by people who were indoors at the time.

People are waking up, but no one is scared, the Main Center of Special Controls report reads.

Read also: Ukrainian rescuers and paramedics arrive in Turkey to assist with aftermath of devastating earthquake

Oscillations are similar to the shock produced by a heavily loaded car. Shaking of windows, doors, dishes. Creaking of the floor and walls. The furniture begins to shake. Hanging objects are easily shaken; goods in open air markets rolled around slightly. In parked cars, the jolt was noticeable.

The center noted that a previous earthquake, felt in more than 15 settlements in Ukraines Transcarpathia region, was registered around the town of Irshava on Jan. 3, 2023 with a magnitude of 3.8 at a depth of six kilometers.

On the night of Feb. 6, an earthquake occurred on the border of Turkey and Syria in the province of Gaziantep  one of the most powerful seismic disturbances in the last century. There were several powerful aftershocks after that. A state of emergency was declared in ten provinces, and aid was offered by dozens of countries.

Read also: Five Ukrainians confirmed killed in Turkey quake

According to the latest data from Turkey and Syria, the death toll from the earth-quakes that struck both countries on Feb. 6 exceeded 50,000 people.

In total, about 20 million people were affected by the earthquakes in Turkey, and 8.8 million in Syria, according to UN estimates.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has vowed to rebuild homes within a year, though experts say authorities must put safety ahead of speed.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuador and Belgium on Monday agreed to increase bilateral cooperation in their fight against international organized crime, a day after Ecuadorean police seized nearly nine tonnes of drugs bound for the European country.

The interior ministers of both countries signed an agreement in Quito to promote the exchange of information, methodology, procedures and experiences, as well as technology to combat organized crime.

Ecuadorean police found some 8.78 tons of cocaine hidden in a container with bananas, the organization said on Sunday.

The drugs were to be exported from Ecuador's coastal city of Guayaquil to Belgium, police said, adding the shipment was valued at about $330 million in Europe.

President Guillermo Lasso, a conservative former banker, has pushed for Ecuador to ramp up efforts to fight gangs that use the country as a transit point for shipping cocaine to the United States and Europe.

The size of the seizure over the weekend makes it necessary for Ecuador to further strengthen cooperation with the Belgian government, Ecuador's Interior Minister Juan Zapata told reporters.

Of the 201 tonnes of drugs seized in Ecuador last year, almost 18% was destined for Belgium, specifically Antwerp, Zapata said.

"It's undeniable that we need new transversal responses against organized crime," he said.

So far in 2023, Ecuador has seized some 39 tonnes of drugs, especially cocaine, according to police data.

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia; Writing by Oliver Griffin; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
The badge of a customized Chevrolet Impala at a metal plating shop in Long Beach. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

Southern California has the nations highest concentration of chrome platers, the metal shops that dip car bumpers, plumbing fixtures, airplane parts and other products in large industrial tanks to coat them with a shiny, mirror-like finish.

But the chemical they have long used, hexavalent chromium, is a serious health hazard, with no safe level of exposure. It's a pollutant thats about 500 times more carcinogenic than the particulate matter in diesel exhaust, and its release into neighboring communities has been a problem for decades. More than two-thirds of the 114 chrome-plating facilities that use hexavalent chromium in California are within 1,000 feet of homes, schools, hospitals and other sensitive locations, and about 10% are within 65 feet, according to air quality officials.

These operations shouldnt be allowed to keep dumping such a dangerous chemical into the air, creating a health threat to their neighbors. The California Air Resources Board should move forward with a proposal to ban its use in chrome-plating, while doing more to help small businesses make a successful transition to safer alternatives.

Air monitoring in recent years has detected alarmingly high levels of hexavalent chromium, also called chromium-6, near metal-finishing facilities in communities like Paramount that already have some of the region's highest cancer risk from air pollution and where residents are exposed to higher concentrations that are not picked up in monitoring data, according to air quality regulators.

State and local regulations to reduce emissions from chrome-platers and other metal-processing facilities have done too little to address this longstanding environmental injustice. More than 73% of chrome-plating facilities in California are in disadvantaged communities hard-hit by multiple sources of pollution. Its no longer good enough to incrementally reduce such a highly toxic chemical. Some pollutants are so dangerous that they need to be eliminated.

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Opponents of a chrome-plating ban continue to question the health concerns. While it's notoriously difficult to ascribe someone's cancer to a singular cause, regulators can quantify the broader threat by calculating the chances of contracting cancer over a lifetime of exposure. Large chrome-plating facilities have an estimated cancer risk of about 213 additional cases per 1 million people, far above the limit of 10 per 1 million recommended by health experts. Ending the use of hexavalent chromium would reduce that to zero.

California regulators long ago banned other toxic air pollutants like perchloroethylene used by dry cleaners, which was replaced with less harmful alternatives. We dont use leaded gasoline and paint, asbestos in buildings or allow smoking in restaurants and airplanes anymore, and we're all safer and healthier for it.

The Air Resources Board's proposal, which received an initial hearing last month and is scheduled for final approval in May, would ban new hexavalent chromium plating operations starting in 2024 and phase the chemical out from existing operations in two stages.

Decorative chrome plating facilities, smaller shops that deposit a thin layer of chromium on products like plumbing fixtures, wheel rims and car bumpers, would have to stop using hexavalent chromium by 2027. Larger plating facilities, which use hard chrome plating and acid anodizing to coat things like landing gears and other high-performance aerospace parts with a thicker layer of chromium to increase durability and corrosion resistance, would have until 2039; in the interim, they would be subject to additional rules, including tougher emissions limits.

The rule would encourage the development of less toxic alternatives for aerospace applications and push decorative platers to switch to one that is already available: trivalent chromium, which is not a known carcinogen. It produces a slightly darker-looking finish but is used by four decorative chrome-plating facilities in California, showing the transition is doable. State lawmakers have committed $10 million in assistance to help chrome platers switch if the rule is approved. The Air Resources Board estimates that the rules will cost each smaller, decorative plating facility about $323,000, and the larger hard plating and anodizing facilities about $4 million each.

It's no surprise that the ban is opposed by the metal-plating industry, which employs about 4,600 people in California. Industry representatives argue that they cannot afford, nor will customers accept, a switch to trivalent chromium, and say banning hexavalent chromium will shift production to other states and countries without Californias tough regulations.

Those complaints seem to underestimate the capacity of businesses to innovate and adapt when it's time to stop using outdated, health-damaging technology. Decorative chrome customers should be able to adjust to a slightly different shine.

But the chrome-plating industry does raise legitimate concerns about the ban's timeline. The proposal would give smaller businesses, the roughly 50 decorative shops, just a few years to make the transition while giving bigger platers 15 years. Air quality officials should move ahead with the ban but consider giving smaller facilities more time to phase out hexavalent chromium if they agree to more stringent pollution controls and emissions testing in the meantime.

There's no question that chrome plating has been important in this region, a longtime hub of the aerospace industry and a cradle of car culture that prizes gleaming chrome bumpers and rims. But that lustrous shine shouldn't come at the expense of people's health, especially when there is a safer alternative.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
By Patrick Werr and Aidan Lewis

CAIRO (Reuters) - Egypt, home to ancient pyramids and Red Sea resorts, aims to boost tourism by up to 30% annually over the next five years, bringing in private firms to operate sites and inaugurating a huge museum around the end of 2023, its tourism minister said.

Tourism is a crucial source of foreign currency and jobs for Egypt's struggling economy. The sector earned $10.75 billion in the financial year ending in June 2022, up from $4.86 billion the prior year, when it was hurt by the coronavirus pandemic.

But it captures a little under 1% of the global tourism market, said Ahmed Issa, a former banker appointed as tourism minister last summer.

The budget for more than 2,000 archaeological sites and 41 museums in the 2021/22 financial year was a modest 3.2 billion Egyptian pounds ($170 million at the exchange rate at the time).

"I think Egypt deserves and should be able to grow its tourism industry by 25% to 30% per annum consistently over the coming decade. And that should get us to about 30 million (visitors) by the year 2028," Issa told Reuters in an interview.

"It's a product that has the most compelling competitive advantage of all the products that Egypt can offer globally."

Immediate priorities include expanding flight capacity and improving the investment climate by streamlining regulation, Issa said.

A need to increase the number of hotel rooms to half a million by 2030 from 212,000 last year could draw $30 billion in private investment, and private companies were involved in pilot projects to manage 10 sites, he added.

These include the Giza pyramids, the Egyptian Museum in central Cairo, and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) that will soon house the country's most prestigious artefacts.

"We are reviewing this experiment today, to be able to learn from it and be able to take it to the next level and expand on it," Issa said.

The repeatedly delayed opening of GEM, a vast structure near the Giza pyramids that has been under construction since 2005, was likely to happen between October and January, Issa said. Egypt hopes to attract world leaders to attend the inauguration.

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A rebound in visitor numbers from European and other markets was compensating for losses from what used to be Egypt's top two markets, Russia and Ukraine, Issa said, adding he expected a surge in Chinese tourists this year.

Longer term, Egypt would seek to develop the market for independent travellers alongside tour operator packages, he added.

(Reporting by Patrick Werr and Aidan Lewis; Editing by Nick Macfie)
An elementary school principal charged with multiple counts of child cruelty is now on leave in Georgia, officials said.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said it was asked to look into allegations that Anastagia Carter, the principal of Indian Creek Elementary School in Douglas, took part in an on-campus incident that involved a student.

Investigators in a Feb. 24 news release didnt share attorney information for Carter, a 51-year-old Douglas resident.

In a statement posted to Facebook, the Coffee County School System said it was aware of allegations tied to the elementary schools principal.

When this matter first came to the attention of the school system, a report was immediately made to the Department of Family and Children Services and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the district wrote Feb. 24. The principal was immediately placed and remains on administrative leave.

The district also directed questions about the case to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which said it discovered a second incident involving a student. But state officials didnt share additional details about the allegations in their news release and didnt share more information with McClatchy News on Feb. 27, citing an ongoing investigation.

The Coffee County Sheriffs Office took Carter into custody Feb. 24. Carter was charged with two counts of 1st degree cruelty to a child, two counts of 3rd degree cruelty to a child, two counts of false imprisonment, and two counts of simple battery, state officials wrote.

An investigation continues, and anyone with information is asked to contact state agents at 912-389-4103, call an anonymous tip line at 800-597-8477, visit gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online or use the smartphone application called See Something Send Something.

Douglas is roughly 130 miles southwest of Savannah.

Principal, gym teacher had sex in school bathroom and took photos, Georgia officials say

Principal told to resign after she accused administrator of racism, GA lawsuit says
Ukrainian army from the 43rd Heavy Artillery Brigade fire the German howitzer Panzerhaubitze 2000, called Tina by the unit, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near Bahmut, in Donetsk region, Ukraine, February 5, 2023. REUTERS/Marko Djurica

Russia's 155th Naval Infantry Brigade has suffered heavy losses while fighting in Ukraine.

The 155th was considered to be an "elite" unit, but has been degraded, Western intelligence says.

It's the latest high-profile Russian unit to see a high number of causalities on the battlefield.

An "elite" Russian military unit may not be as tough as it once was because its top troops are suffering heavy losses on the battlefield and getting replaced by inexperienced fighters likely only further degrading its capability, Western intelligence says.

Elements of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade, considered a prestigious infantry unit in the Russian armed forces, have been at the front of some of Moscow's most "costly offensives" during its full-scale war in Ukraine, Britain's defense ministry shared in a Sunday intelligence update.

In the update, the ministry shared satellite imagery from February 9 that purportedly showed 10 destroyed Russian armored vehicles traveling near the eastern Ukrainian city of Vuhledar, one of several fronts where Moscow's troops appear to be pursuing advances.

Britain said the destroyed armor was "likely" part of the 155th, which has not been deployed as one large formation but rather as individual units assigned to various ground forces. The unit has been forced to undertake "some of the toughest tactical missions in the war and has suffered extremely high casualties," the intelligence update said.

Satellite imagery showing Russian vehicle losses in eastern Ukraine. Screengrab/Britain's Ministry of Defense

Russian forces near Vuhledar mainly consist of fighters from the 155th, and a majority of these are newly mobilized soldiers. A Ukrainian official previously said the 155th's heavy losses will force the brigade to restaff for a third time, according to an analysis by the Institute for the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank.

"The supposedly enhanced capability of NI brigades has now almost certainly been significantly degraded because it has been backfilled with inexperienced mobilized personnel," Britain's defense ministry said on Sunday.

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Replacements for units with high attrition rates have not been bringing "a significant enhancement in terms of the training of those forces," a senior US defense official said in January. "Ill-equipped, ill-trained, rushed to the battlefield" is how the official described these troops.

Britain's defense ministry said in its Sunday update that this lack of experience among new troops is "almost certainly" becoming a burden on military leadership, which has a tendency to micromanage, curbing Moscow's capabilities by limiting this unit's operational agility.

Ukrainian troops inspect a destroyed Russian tank in a suburb of Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region on December 15, 2022. SERGEY BOBOK/AFP via Getty Images

The 155th is not the only Russian unit considered elite that has suffered severe setbacks and losses in Ukraine.

In the early weeks of the war, an elite airborne force, called the VDV, took heavy losses as Moscow failed to capture Kyiv in what it thought was going to be a quick victory. Months later, it was the GRU's 3rd Guards Spetsnaz Brigade that suffered scores of causalities fighting in the eastern city of Lyman.

Russia's 200th Separate Motor Rifle Brigade, meanwhile, endured so many losses that it is considered to be wiped out; it will likely take years to rebuild. And the 1st Guards Tank Army (1 GTA) has repeatedly been beaten in battle by Ukrainian forces.

Western intelligence estimates that Russian forces may have suffered as many as 200,000 casualties while fighting in Ukraine, with up to 60,000 troops dead. The figure includes both Russia's regular military and also the notorious Kremlin-linked Wagner Group, which has sent tens of thousands of fighters  including convicts  to the front lines.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Elon Musk is again the wealthiest person in the world, according to Bloomberg. Gilbert Carrasquillo/GC Images

Elon Musk leads the list of the world's wealthiest billionaires, according to Bloomberg.

Musk's net worth hit $187.1 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Tesla stock has been trending up since January, and closed at $207.63 on Monday.

Elon Musk is back on top of Bloomberg's list of wealthiest people in the world.

Musk, the chief of companies including Tesla and Twitter, now has a net worth of $187.1 billion, according to Bloomberg. He bested LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault, overtaking the head of the luxury brand conglomerate whose own net worth is $182 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Arnault had unseated Musk last year as Tesla shares fell in December. The Tesla stock price hit a low of $108.10 on Jan. 3, 2023, according to historical data on Yahoo Finance. The carmaker's stock closed at $207.63 on Monday.

After the tumult of last year, in which Musk purchased Twitter after some uncertainty about whether he'd follow through on the deal, and a lawsuit at the time by Tesla shareholders, Musk has had a better 2023 so far.

Earlier this month, he prevailed in a federal civil trial in San Francisco over whether he should be held liable for tweeting in 2018 that he had "funding secured" to take Tesla private, though the transaction ultimately didn't happen.

Musk also tweeted this month that Twitter was "trending to break even" and that he had to "save" the platform from bankruptcy. Musk is still facing legal claims from laid-off Twitter employees and lawsuits from landlords claiming that Twitter offices have fallen behind on rent.

Musk previously beat Amazon founder Jeff Bezos in 2021 to become the world's richest person at the time. The Musk, Arnault, and Bezos trio have periodically swapped places at the top of the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

Read the original article on Business Insider
[Source]

Twitter CEO Elon Musk called the media racist against whites and Asians after author Scott Adams' "Dilbert" comic strip was dropped by several publications because of his racist tirade against Black people.

Musk, 51, made his statement on Sunday in a reply to a tweet about Adams advising white people to get the f*ck away from Black people, which he called a "hate group."

For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now theyre racist against whites and Asians. Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America. Maybe they can try not being racist," he wrote.

Musk also replied "Exactly" in agreement with another tweet that read:

Adams' comments weren't good. But there's an element of truth to this...it's complicated. Mainly we've leaned into identity with predictable results, and power today is complicated. We were on the right path with colorblindness and need to return to it. More from NextShark: Chinese man sobs after stepdaughter finally calls him dad in viral video

Exactly  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023

More from NextShark: Young girl spellbinds the internet with insanely flexible moves in viral video

Hundreds of newspapers dropped Adams widely syndicated comic strip over the weekend after the American cartoonist made racist remarks during a livestream on his YouTube channel Real Coffee with Scott Adams" on Wednesday.

In his video, which he titled, AI Goes Woke, I Accidentally Joined A Hate Group, Trump, Policing Schools, Adams talked about the recent poll that the nonpartisan electronic media company Rasmussen Reports conducted, in which the outletasked 1,000 American adults: Do you agree or disagree with this statement: Its OK to be white.

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The poll results showed that 76% of respondents agreed with the statement. About 56% of Black respondents also answered yes in the poll. Meanwhile, around 26% of Black respondents disagreed with the statement, while 21% were unsure.

In his tirade, the Trump-supporting author combined the latter two figures, stating, Add them together, that is 47% of Black respondents were not willing to say its OK to be white.

I dont want to have anything to do with them. And I would say, based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to White people is to get the hell away from Black people, just get the f*ck away. Wherever you have to go, just get away. Because there is no fixing this.

So thats what I did, I went to a neighborhood where I have a very low black population, Adams added.

Some of the media companies that dropped Adams comic strip include The Washington Post, the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Boston Globe and the USA Today Network, which operates hundreds of newspapers.

According to the official "Dilbert" website, the long-running comic strip was first published in a handful of newspapers in 1989 before it grew to over 2,000 newspapers in 57 countries and 19 languages.
Ke Huy Quan continued his emotional awards season run and remarkable Hollywood comeback, moving the audience to tears on Sunday night when accepting his Screen Actors Guild award for Best Supporting Actor.

To all those at home who are watching, who are struggling with waiting to be seen: Please keep on going because the spotlight will one day find you, the Everything Everywhere All At Once star said in his speech, calling it a really emotional moment for me.

Quan noted that he is the very first Asian actor to win in this category. Its a distinction that simultaneously demonstrates progress for Asian American representation in the film industry, while also illustrating the long and frustrating history of Asian erasure in Hollywood.

Perhaps no better example of that is Quan, whose role as multiverse-jumping husband Waymond in Everything Everywhere All At Once marked his return to acting after leaving Hollywood behind in the early 1990s due to a lack of roles for Asian American actors.

This moment no longer belongs to just me. It also belongs to everyone who has asked for change, he said on Sunday. When I stepped away from acting, it was because there were so few opportunities.

And now tonight, here we are, celebrating James Hong, Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu, Hong Chau, Harry Shum, Jr., he continued, listing off the other Asian actors who were also nominated at the ceremony, including his fellow Everything Everything All At Once castmates. The landscape looks so different now than before. So thank you so much to all of you in this room and everyone who contributed to these changes.

Another beautiful acceptance speech from Ke Huy Quan. #SAGAwardspic.twitter.com/5YwEROQK69  Jarett Wieselman (@JarettSays) February 27, 2023

As Quan told HuffPost last year, after he found fame as a child actor in the 1980s hits The Goonies and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, the roles quickly dried up.

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I was in my early 20s, and all I was doing was waiting for the phone to ring. It rarely did  and when it did, it was to audition for a role where there were only two lines. It was at a time where it was very disheartening to be an Asian actor, he said.

Fittingly, his return to acting three decades later was partially because of his now co-star Michelle Yeoh. The success of 2018s Crazy Rich Asians, starring Yeoh as matriarch Eleanor Young, convinced him to throw his hat back into the ring.

Hes hopeful these last few years havent been just a blip, but a real transformation for Asian actors in Hollywood.

Change is definitely happening. It might not move as fast as we want, but with all sustainable improvement, it happens gradually. My return to acting is a direct result of some of the progress thats been made by the Asian talents working in Hollywood today, he told HuffPost last year. I cant imagine how many others like myself out there, young and old, who share in the same dream that lay dormant for many years. So if you ask me what I hope our movie can do, I really hope Everything Everywhere All at Once does for these dreamers what Crazy Rich Asians did for me. That would make me really happy.

In his speech Sunday, Quan paid special tribute to Yeoh, who will both star in the upcoming Disney+ series American Born Chinese, continuing the wave of major Asian-led projects on screen.

Im so glad that when we both started our careers in 1984, that one day, we would meet on the big screen. Love you, Michelle, he said, before thanking everyone for rooting for me. Ill be rooting for you.

Everyone likely will also be rooting for Quan at the Oscars on March 12, where he is nominated for Best Supporting Actor, among the films 11 Academy Award nominations.

Related...
Energy bills to rise by 500 under Ofgem price cap. Photo:Getty

Consumers will pay an extra 500 on their annual household energy bills from April despite Ofgem cutting the amount suppliers can charge by nearly 1,000.

Ofgem said the price cap on the amount suppliers in Britain can charge for energy will fall by around 1,000 to 3,280 from April.

However, instead of getting a 1,000 discount on their energy bills, UK households actually face a 500 increase from April.

This is because consumers will not actually pay the average price cap, due to the governments energy price guarantee (EPG) which capped the energy unit price resulting in an average household bill of 2,500.

But energy bills are now likely to rise by around 20% as the EPG threshold will increase to 3,000 for an average household from 1 April.

The amount is not the maximum that can be charged but instead reflects typical usage levels. Customers using a lot of energy will have higher bills.

Ofgem chief executive Jonathan Brearley said: Although wholesale prices have fallen, the price cap has not yet fallen below the planned level of the Energy Price Guarantee. This means that on current policy bills will rise again in April.

I know that for many households this news will be deeply concerning.

Read more: EDF makes 1bn profit in UK as energy bills soar

"However, todays announcement reflects the fundamental shift in the cost of wholesale energy for the first time since the gas crisis began, and while it wont make an immediate difference to consumers, its a sign that some of the immense pressure weve seen in the energy markets over the last 18 months may be starting to ease.

If the reduction in wholesale prices were currently seeing continues, the signs are positive that the price cap will fall again in the summer, potentially bringing bills significantly lower.

However, prices are unlikely to fall back to the level we saw before the energy crisis. Even with the extensive package of government support that is currently in place, this is a very tough time for many households across Britain.

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Where people are struggling, we urge them to contact their supplier to make sure they are getting all the help and support they are entitled to. We also think that, with bills continuing to be so high, there is a case for examining with urgency the feasibility of a social tariff for customers in the most vulnerable situations.

Under the government's Energy Price Guarantee (EPG), a household using a typical amount of gas and electricity in England, Wales and Scotland is currently paying 2,500 a year for energy. Without government support, that annual bill would have been 4,279 since January.

The government compensates energy suppliers with the difference between the guarantee and Ofgem's cap.

Read more: British Gas owner Centrica posts profits of 3.3bn as energy bills rise

Campaigners say ministers should stop a rise in energy bills in April.

Citizens Advice chief executive Dame Clare Moriarty has predicted the number of people who cannot afford their energy bills will double from April, the cost of living crisis will continue to grip the UK.

She told BBC Radio 4's Today Programme: For most people, on average, we're going to see a 900 increase in people's bills.

Now we know that that's going to be unsustainable for very many people. We estimate that the number of people who simply won't be able to afford their energy bills will double.

So we'll go from one in 10 people to one in five people. That is a huge number of people.

That's why we're saying that the government has to keep the energy price guarantee where it is at the moment - 2,500.

We believe there are about three million people who would be paying more than 10% of their income on energy who won't be entitled to any of the targeted support that the Government's going to make available, so we are talking about literally millions of people who are going to see catastrophic impacts.

When the upcoming end of the 400 energy rebate scheme  paid in six instalments of 66 and 67 a month  is factored in, the energy cost for households will increase even more.

Read more: How to beat supermarket price rises

Emily Fry, economist at the Resolution Foundation, said: The latest Ofgem price cap is a stark reminder of the lag between falling wholesale gas prices, and falling household energy bills.

While consumers wont have to face typical bills of 3,280 this Spring, many are still set to see bills rise by a fifth as government support is scaled back.

The chancellor should prevent this coming energy bills spike by maintaining the level of the EPG at 2,500 for a further three months.

Around 4 million prepayment meter customers will pay an additional 45 a year, as energy companies say they cost more to serve.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt told the BBC last week that although the policy remained under review, he did not think the government had the "headroom to make a major new initiative to help people".

Watch: Energy bills set to rise by 20% despite expected fall in price cap

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Environmental officials said Sunday that residential and outdoor air quality levels in East Palestine, Ohio, remained normal, just days after a town hall where frustrated residents and activists continued to demand answers on what chemicals they have been exposed to after the toxic train derailment earlier this month.

During a news conference on Sunday, Debra Shore, a regional administrator with the Environmental Protection Agency, gave a series of updates, announcing that to date the agency has conducted 578 home re-entry screenings and is continuing air monitoring from 15 stations within the community. Shore said that so far there have been no reported "exceedances" for residential air quality standards and that outdoor air quality remains normal.

Shore also announced that the agency had more identified EPA facilities that will be able to accept some of the contaminated waste removed from the area. Shore said Norfolk Southern will be able to resume shipments of the waste starting Monday after the company was ordered to pause shipments on Saturday.

Shore said the agency is working to identify additional disposal facilities. Right now some of the liquid waste will be sent to a facility in Vickery, Ohio, to be disposed of in an underground injection well, Shore said, and starting Monday morning Norfolk Southern will begin shipping solid waste to an incinerator in East Liverpool, Ohio.

"All of this is great news for people of East Palestine and the surrounding community," Shore told reporters. "Because it means the cleanup can continue at a rapid pace. As I said yesterday, we owe it to East Palestine and residents nearby to move waste out of the community as quickly as possible and that's exactly what we're working to do."

Ohio EPA director Anne Vogel said the cleanup on the site of the derailment continues to go "smoothly," and that all the railcars, except for the cars being held by the National Transportation Safety Board, have been removed from the site.

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Vogel said officials can now excavate additional contaminated soil and install monitoring wells to determine whether there is contamination to ground water. "This is critically important to the mission of the Ohio EPA to ensure the health of the residents of East Palestine and the environment here," Vogel said.

Officials also announced that the EPA and other responding agencies will be hosting an open house later this week where residents can get questions answered.

The news conference on Sunday followed a town hall in East Palestine on Friday night where environmental advocate Erin Brockovich demanded answers from state and federal authorities.

"They're worried because they've got coughs and respiratory problems," Brockovich told CBS News Friday. "There's so many unanswered questions, and they know this isn't the last of this conversation."

On Feb. 3., about 50 cars derailed in East Palestine on a train traveling from Madison, Illinois, to Conway, Pennsylvania, rail operator Norfolk Southern said. No injuries were reported.

First responders found that one of the train cars was releasing vinyl chloride, NTSB member Michael Graham said at a press conference. Vinyl chloride is used to make the polyvinyl chloride hard plastic resin used in a variety of plastic products, including pipes, wires and packaging materials.

Days later, officials warned residents to evacuate so crews could release toxic chemicals into the air from five derailed tanker cars that were in danger of exploding. Vinyl chloride was slowly released from five rail cars into a trough that was then ignited, creating a large plume of smoke above the village of East Palestine.

Since the evacuation order was lifted in early February, federal and state officials have repeatedly said it's safe for evacuated residents to return to the area and that air testing in the town and inside hundreds of homes was not showing any concerning levels of contaminants. The state says the local municipal drinking water system is safe, and has made bottled water available while testing is conducted for those with private wells.

Next Sunday: David Byrne | 60 Minutes

SOLA: Daring to educate Afghanistans girls | 60 Minutes

Kherson, Ukraine, a year after Russias invasion | 60 Minutes
The board of EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG) has announced that it will be paying its dividend of $0.825 on the 28th of April, an increased payment from last year's comparable dividend. This takes the annual payment to 2.9% of the current stock price, which unfortunately is below what the industry is paying.

View our latest analysis for EOG Resources

EOG Resources' Earnings Easily Cover The Distributions

The dividend yield is a little bit low, but sustainability of the payments is also an important part of evaluating an income stock. However, prior to this announcement, EOG Resources' dividend was comfortably covered by both cash flow and earnings. This means that most of what the business earns is being used to help it grow.

Over the next year, EPS is forecast to fall by 8.5%. If recent patterns in the dividend continue, we could see the payout ratio reaching 82% in the next 12 months, which is on the higher end of the range we would say is sustainable.

EOG Resources Has A Solid Track Record

The company has a sustained record of paying dividends with very little fluctuation. The annual payment during the last 10 years was $0.34 in 2013, and the most recent fiscal year payment was $3.30. This means that it has been growing its distributions at 26% per annum over that time. It is good to see that there has been strong dividend growth, and that there haven't been any cuts for a long time.

The Dividend Looks Likely To Grow

The company's investors will be pleased to have been receiving dividend income for some time. EOG Resources has seen EPS rising for the last five years, at 24% per annum. Earnings have been growing rapidly, and with a low payout ratio we think that the company could turn out to be a great dividend stock.

We Really Like EOG Resources' Dividend

In summary, it is always positive to see the dividend being increased, and we are particularly pleased with its overall sustainability. The distributions are easily covered by earnings, and there is plenty of cash being generated as well. If earnings do fall over the next 12 months, the dividend could be buffeted a little bit, but we don't think it should cause too much of a problem in the long term. All in all, this checks a lot of the boxes we look for when choosing an income stock.

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It's important to note that companies having a consistent dividend policy will generate greater investor confidence than those having an erratic one. At the same time, there are other factors our readers should be conscious of before pouring capital into a stock. For example, we've picked out 1 warning sign for EOG Resources that investors should know about before committing capital to this stock. Looking for more high-yielding dividend ideas? Try our collection of strong dividend payers.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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Josep Borrell

China introduced its position paper on a political settlement, Borrell said.

It is not really a peace plan and mostly reiterates well-known Chinese positions, some of which we share while important ones are missing.

Read also: Biden slapped Putin. How will the Kremlin respond and what is China up to?

According to the diplomat, the European Union will definitely analyze the document.

But it is already clear that the key problem is that it does not really distinguish aggressor from the victim, putting the parties at an equal level, he said.

Read also: China could be preparing to supply Russia with weapons, NATO head says

Borrell believes that it is necessary to achieve peace, taking into account the UNGA resolution and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys peace plan.

I also reiterated that the EU is committed to uphold international law everywhere and that we would continue our global engagement to reduce suffering and work for peace around the world, he said.

China released a 12-point position paper on Feb. 24, in which it calls for a political settlement to the conflict and called for a resumption of peace talks, an end to unilateral sanctions, and stressed its opposition to the use of nuclear weapons.

At the same time, nowhere in the paper does China condemn Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, or Russian war crimes.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The European Commission, in conjunction with Poland, has launched the initiative to search for the Ukrainian children who were illegally deported from the occupied territories of Ukraine.

Source: Dana Spinant, spokesperson of the European Commission, at a briefing in Brussels, cited by European Pravda

Quote: "It was estimated that since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Russian forces have sent thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia. Kidnapping of Ukrainian children is a big social issue, tragedy and crime."

"This is why, in conjunction with Poland, we launch this initiative with the support of the UN agencies. Our goal is to unite the forces in order to collect evidence, find the kidnapped children and prosecute those responsible for these crimes," Spinant added.

She stated that more detailed information about the initiative will be provided in a few days.

Background: A new sanctions package includes sanctions against the persons involved in kidnapping the Ukrainian children and deporting them to Russia.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Viewers of the 2023 SAG Awards have declared Zendaya the best-dressed celebrity attendee at the awards show after the Euphoria star arrived in a pale pink gown.

On Sunday, Zendaya posed on the red carpet at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles ahead of the 29th annual awards, during which she will present an award.

For the occasion, the actress chose a pale pink strapless satin Valentino gown with a corseted bodice. The dress, which featured was adorned with satin roses in the same shade of pink.

She completed the red carpet look with a diamond statement choker necklace with green, orange and purple gems, a diamond bracelet, and black nails, while she wore her hair in her newly debuted short hairstyle.

On Twitter, Zendayas SAG Awards outfit choice has been met with an outpouring of praise, with many declaring her look their favourite of the night.

Zendaya is the best-dressed every single time, one person tweeted, while another said: Zendaya has arrived!!! Everybody can go now! The red carpet is closed.

Zendaya is slaying tonight STUNNING, someone else wrote.

(AFP via Getty Images)

This is not Zendayas only red carpet look of the weekend, as the actress also attended the 2023 NAACP Image Awards, where she wore two different looks.

For Zendayas first look of the night, she chose a lime green and black Versace gown, which she later revealed on her Instagram Story was inspired by Shego from the Disney Channel classic Kim Possible.

The actress later changed into another look to present the award for outstanding motion picture, with Zendaya opting for a Prada star bralette and matching white skirt.

Zendayas boyfriend, Spider-Man starTom Holland, later posted a sweet reaction to her SAG awards look on Instagram, to the delight of fans.
Becoming a Black studies major and becoming immersed in aspects of your history is a relatively new concept. From learning the very beginnings of African civilization to the critical movements that have shaped our political sphere, our ability to gain this information has been a great opportunity. Though the origins of other liberal arts majors date as far back as the late 1800s, an official Black Studies program was not institutionalized until the late 1960s. This wasnt made possible until after decades of protests. We had to fight to get our history to be taught in schools. And with that, we experienced significant loss while doing so.

Described by many names, African Studies, Black Studies, or Africology, its the study of Black people worldwide. Each of those subtopics hit specific geological standpoints. For instance, African Diaspora studies focus on Black people displaced throughout the Americas. Black studies center more on Black Americans or African studies, which dive deep into African Civilization pre-slavery. They all fall under humanities and social science, which is the study of not only a specific sector of people but also the culture that surrounds them. Despite the different umbrella terms, they all work to achieve the same goal: undo the centuries of misrepresentation, miseducation and overall ignorance that lead to a public misconstrued deception of our people. Doing so has brought many Black people to connect with their ancestral roots.

There were a lot of historical moments that led up to Black Studies becoming institutionalized in colleges and universities. Between 1945 and 1955, many moving pieces were happening in the government. There was a dire need for proper representation in our educational system. Brown vs. Board occurred in 1954; it struck down segregation in schools. The GI Bill paid for college tuition for many Black veterans too. Not to mention the desegregation of other legal, systemic and academic institutions.

These historical moments increased Black people attending school and eventually finding themselves in college. With more Black people in schools, it became natural to question why there wasnt any authentic Black history being taught in schools. Even now, in 2023, a whitewashed curriculum. Our only history about Black people being taught is slavery  which doesnt fully encompass all that it should; since there are now Black people in the schools, Black history should be taught. These revelations, matched with community organizing spawned from the Black Power movement, sparked civil unrest.

Howard University staged a sit-in and ultimately seized the administrative buildings for four days straight between March 19 to 23 in 1968. One of their demands was that the history of African American people would be added to the curriculum. Over 1,000 students gathered to fight for justice and the future of their education. Many student-led groups were forming in this particular decade to combat the racist system. They sought to educate the community when those in power failed to do so. The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee worked urgently to fight against the injustices. In 1968 they merged with The Black Panther Party. At that point, they continued to provide myriad community services. They even started the Intercommunal Youth Institute through mutual aid services, newsletter distribution and breakfast programs. It worked to provide Black students with the proper education they received in white-dominated institutions. People worked endlessly to ensure justice for Black people and a better future for our youth.

At the same time, we had the Cold War going on, the McCarthy Hearings, and the formation of Cointelpro. Eventually, this all led to the dismantling of these radically led groups. We lost many influential leaders; it became too dangerous to be known as a freedom fighter. With so many outside entities going against a white nationalist narrative, controlling what was taught throughout the states was necessary. At a cost, Black studies eventually were rolled out into colleges in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Many Black figures questioned the genuine intentions of the sudden interest in institutionalizing Black Studies after many years of pushback. But it served as a win to the many lives lost and severed movements.



Merrit Community College in Oakland, CA, established the first organized Black Studies course in 1965-1966. San Fransico State University was approved for the first four-year program in 1967-1968. Since then, the Black Studies major has gone in many different directions, adding new categories to be taught, and still has to face criticism for not being perceived as a valid enough major to go into.

Our history has been through generations of obstruction, and even now, in current days, were seeing our lifes work being banned from different academic institutions. Our fight to honor those who have sacrificed to ensure we have these resources is to utilize them. You dont have to be a Black Studies major to take a class; see how to take one to fulfill a humanities or fine arts requirement. Our history can no longer be erased if we take the proper steps to learn. Black Studies has an extensive history, and this barely scratched the surface. With new movements arising and our access to social media to connect globally, were getting ourselves ready to add more classes, have more discussions, and, most importantly, learn from one another  and our history.

Alycia Kamil is a freedom fighter and believer of the people. She is a Freshman at Wilbur Wright College. Follow her writings, interests and more here.

The post The Evolution Of Black Studies Programs In The United States appeared first on Blavity.
Lawyers for former Roman Catholic Cardinal Theodore McCarrick filed a motion Monday to dismiss a case charging him with sexually assaulting a boy decades ago, saying the 92-year-old once-powerful American prelate has dementia and is not competent to stand trial.

McCarrick pleaded not guilty in September 2021 in the Massachusetts case that alleges the priest sexually abused the boy at a wedding reception at Wellesley College in June 1974. He is the only U.S. Catholic cardinal, current or former, ever to be criminally charged with child sex crimes.

His attorneys said in their motion to dismiss that McCarrick was examined by a professor of psychiatry and behavioral science at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, who concluded the former cardinal suffers from dementia, likely due to Alzheimers disease.

While he has a limited understanding of the criminal proceedings against him, his progressive and irreparable cognitive deficits render him unable to meaningfully consult with counsel or to effectively assist in his own defense, McCarricks lawyers wrote. They say McCarrick maintains his innocence of all charges.

A prosecutor told the judge during a hearing earlier Monday at the Dedham District Court that the Norfolk District Attorneys Office would be hiring its own expert to conduct a second opinion on competency, according to David Traub, a spokesperson for that office. The prosecutors office declined further comment on the defense motion.

McCarrick, who lives in Dittmer, Missouri, faces three counts of indecent assault and battery on a person over 14. He can still face charges because he wasnt a Massachusetts resident and had left the state, stopping the clock on the statute of limitations.

Mitchell Garabedian, a well-known lawyer for church sexual abuse victims who is representing the man alleging the abuse by McCarrick, said Monday that his client has shown a lot of courage in coming forward to report the crimes and he intends to see this matter through to the end.

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The man told authorities during a 2021 interview that McCarrick, who was close to the mans family when he was growing up, began abusing him as a young boy. Prosecutors say McCarrick would attend family gatherings and travel on vacations with them and that the victim referred to the priest as Uncle Ted.

Prosecutors say the abuse continued throughout the years and happened again when the boy, who was then 16, was at his brothers wedding reception at Wellesley College.

Prosecutors say McCarrick told the boy his dad wanted him to have a talk with the priest because the boy was being mischievous at home and not attending church. The man told investigators that they took a walk around campus, and McCarrick groped him before they went back to the party. The man said McCarrick also sexually assaulted him in a coat room after they returned to the reception, authorities wrote in the documents.

Prosecutors say McCarrick told the boy to say the Hail Mary and Our Father prayers before leaving the room.

The Associated Press generally doesnt identify people who report sexual assault unless they agree to be named publicly, which the victim in this case has not done.

Ordained as a priest in New York City in 1958, McCarrick ascended the church ranks despite apparently common knowledge in the U.S. and Vatican leadership that Uncle Ted, as he was known, slept with seminarians.

McCarrick became one of the most visible Catholic Church officials in the U.S. and even served as the spokesman for fellow U.S. bishops when they enacted a zero tolerance policy against sexually abusive priests in 2002.

His fall began in 2017, when a former altar boy came forward to report the priest had groped him in New York when he was a teenager.

The next year, the Archdiocese of New York announced McCarrick had been removed from ministry after finding the allegation to be credible and substantiated, and two New Jersey dioceses revealed they had settled claims against him in the past of sexual misconduct involving adults.

Pope Francis defrocked McCarrick in 2019 after a Vatican investigation determined he sexually abused minors, as well as adults.

A two-year internal investigation found that three decades of bishops, cardinals and popes downplayed or dismissed reports of sexual misconduct. Correspondence showed they repeatedly rejected the information as rumor and excused it as an imprudence.

The findings released last year pinned much of the blame on Pope John Paul II, who appointed McCarrick archbishop of Washington, D.C., despite having commissioned an inquiry that confirmed McCarrick slept with seminarians.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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MILAN (AP)  Elly Schlein, a 37-year-old U.S.-Italian national and longtime left-wing political operative who worked on two presidential campaigns for former U.S. President Barack Obama, defied polls to become the first woman to head Italys opposition Democratic Party.

Schleins surprise victory Sunday over the popular governor of Emilia-Romagna, a traditional left-wing stronghold, is attributed to support from women and youth in the rank-and-file, while the party apparatus largely supported Stefano Bonaccini.

Schlein claimed 54% of the vote to Bonaccinis 46%.

We will be a big problem" for Premier Giorgia Meloni, Schlein said to supporters, pledging to help the most vulnerable and shore up the labor market with better-paying, secure jobs.

Schlein took an immediate swipe at Meloni for her far-right governments anti-migration policies, saying that the shipwreck deaths Sunday of dozens off southern Italy weighs on the conscience of those who only weeks ago approved a decree whose only goal is to hinder rescues at sea.

Schlein called instead for a system that allows migrants to legally apply for entry into all European nations and for the EU to invigorate its humanitarian search-and-rescue mission.

Schlein takes over a badly splintered party that failed miserably to mount a credible campaign against Meloni in last falls elections, leading the PD's former leader to step down.

Schlein, who grew up in Switzerland with an Italian mother and American father, quit the center-left Democratic Party in 2015 over differences in the direction it was taking under then-Premier Matteo Renzi. She helped the Democratic Party campaign last summer as an independent candidate, winning a seat in parliament even as the party badly lost the general election, and became a card-carrying party member just recently to run as its leader.

A former European Parliament deputy, Schlein cut her political organizing chops on two Obama campaigns and has been aligned with the former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis pan-European progressive moment DiEM25. She is often compared to U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for her social justice advocacy.

Schlein gained national attention three years ago when she played a key role in blocking the right from taking power in her traditionally left-leaning region of Emilia-Romagna, famously confronting League leader Matteo Salvini over his immigration record.

Prior to winning election to parliament, she was vice governor of the region, working with Bonaccini, charged with social equity and environmental policy.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  President Joe Biden has appointed former Columbia, South Carolina, Mayor Steve Benjamin as a top White House adviser, taking over from Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former Atlanta mayor who had assumed the role in June.

Both Georgia and South Carolina have become crucial to the Democratic Party ahead of the 2024 election cycle. South Carolina holds the Democrats' first nominating contest, and Georgia helped solidify the Democrats' Senate majority during the 2022 midterms and in 2020 gave Biden a rare win in a southern state that hasn't backed a Democrat for president in 30 years.

Benjamin will become director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, overseeing efforts to ensure community leaders, diverse perspectives, and new voices have the opportunity to inform the work of the President in an inclusive, transparent and responsible way, according to the White House. In a release Monday, Biden called Benjamin a longtime public servant whose deep relationships across the country would well serve the administration.

Benjamin, 53, has long been considered a rising star in Democratic politics, serving three terms as Columbias mayor, and the first Black mayor in the city's history. Serving as president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and African Americans Mayors Association, Benjamin spoke at the 2016 Democratic National Convention and was among the candidates considered for Hillary Clintons running mate that year. He opted not to run for a fourth term in 2021.

The appointment comes at a time when Benjamin's home state is becoming even more critical to Democrats as they face the 2024 presidential campaign. Earlier this year, the Democratic National Committee voted to hold their first nominating contest of the next cycle in South Carolina, supplanting Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada in an effort to more deeply represent the desires of Black voters.

In South Carolina's 2020 primary, Benjamin met with nearly all of the 2020 Democratic White House hopefuls, offering advice as they wound their way through South Carolina, a state in which support from Black voters is critical to Democratic candidates' success. Benjamin initially gave his endorsement to former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg before supporting Biden, who scored a thundering win in the state's primary.

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Benjamin also served in the administration of Gov. Jim Hodges, who in 1998 was the most recent Democrat elected to South Carolina's highest office. Earlier this year, his wife, DeAndrea Gist Benjamin, was sworn in as a judge on the 4th US. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, appointed to the post by Biden.

___

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP
A bar graph showing Amplify data over time. The percentage of students in grades kindergarten through third is growing but does not yet match pre-pandemic levels.

The percentage of third graders on track in reading hasnt budged since this time last year, new data shows  a reminder of the literacy setbacks experienced by kindergartners when schools shut down in 2020.

Even so, the tests administrators are interpreting the flatline at 54% as good news. Paul Gazzerro, director of data analysis at curriculum provider Amplify, said its likely that third graders would have fallen even further behind without efforts like tutoring and additional group instruction.

It looks as if nothing happened, but the reality is I wouldve suspected that things couldve gotten worse, he said. These are students in many cases that are missing very tangible skills. They may even be grade levels behind.

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The results come amid brighter news for younger students. The mid-year data, which reflects the performance of about 300,000 students across 43 states, show that more K-2 students are reading on grade level compared with 2022  a sign that literacy skills overall continue to slowly inch back to pre-COVID levels.

The actual pandemic effect seems to be lessening, Gazzerro said.

Amplifys latest early literacy snapshot reflects a far less disruptive year than the last one. Schools arent dealing with frequent quarantines as they did during last years Omicron wave. In addition, many states and districts are in the midst of revamping how they teach reading and are using federal relief funds to purchase new curriculum and train teachers.

Related: Exclusive Literacy Data: Small Gains Since Last Fall, But No Reading Rebound

In some cases, states are taking the lead. Tennessee has put $100 million toward teacher training and ensuring districts have a phonics-based reading curriculum to match. And the Texas Education Agency will soon publish a list of approved materials to follow up a state law requiring districts to teach phonics.

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At The 74s request, Burbio, a data company, scanned 6,500 districts plans for spending American Rescue Plan funds. Over 3,800 report an emphasis on literacy, more than 4,100 mention reading and over 2,586 note ELA or English language arts. A smaller number, 530, specifically included phonics, and 258 identified science of reading in their plans.

Its too soon to know whether these developments have had a measurable impact on students skills, but theyre not hurting, thats for sure, said Susan Lambert, Amplifys chief academic officer for elementary humanities.

The return to a more predictable schedule has contributed to the growth as well, she added.

We can make progress when kids are in the classroom, she said. The data shows that.

Amplify uses an assessment called Dynamic Indicators of Basic Literacy Skills, or DIBELS, to test student progress toward learning letter sounds and blends, recognizing sight words and gaining speed and accuracy.

Students in K-2 havent caught up to peers who were in those grades just before COVID hit. But they did make more progress between fall and winter than students did last year. Thats especially true for the youngest students. In 2021-22, the percentage of kindergartners on track grew 15 points over that time period. This year, it grew 19 percentage points.

Cant spell Harry or Potter

For teachers, its rewarding to see their students leap from identifying one or two sounds in a word to accurately writing complete sentences.

JoLynn Aldinger, who teaches first grade in the West Ada School District, near Boise, Idaho, said her students growth over the past five months makes her want to do cartwheels in the classroom.

JoLynn Aldingers first graders give a thumbs down to indicate when they see a nonsense word. (Courtesy of JoLynn Aldinger)

A 25-year veteran teacher, she used to emphasize stories and comprehension over phonics. But when she had a 7-year-old in her class who took longer than her peers to learn letter sounds, Aldinger set off on her own quest to learn more about the so-called science of reading.

I thought, I have a masters degree in reading. I should know how to teach reading,  she said. I knew what phonics was but I didnt understand how explicit it needed to be.

Related: How Bill Cassidy, Senates New GOP Education Leader, Aims to Put Focus on Students With Reading Disabilities

She applied for a grant from her schools PTA, which paid $1,275 for her to receive training in methods often used with students who have dyslexia. The techniques, like pounding out syllables on their desks and spending extra time on letter blends, benefit even her strongest readers, she said.

I would have kids walk in my classroom who have read Harry Potter, but they cant spell Harry or Potter, she said.

Now she shows off her students improvement to anyone who will listen. And she asks other teachers if theyve listened to Sold a Story, a podcast about how whole language or balanced literacy came to dominate reading instruction in U.S. schools. Research shows the approach, which focuses more on access to books and using pictures or other clues to guess words, can leave students without the phonics skills to become strong readers.

Two worksheets side by side, one from September where the student has written a few letters, and the other where the student had written complete words and sentences.

Our COVID kids

The Amplify data includes other indicators that trends are headed in the right direction. Racial gaps in reading  which grew larger during the pandemic  have narrowed slightly. And between Hispanic and white students, the disparities are even smaller than before COVID.

Since 2019-20, the gap between Hispanic and white kindergartners needing intensive support, for example, has fallen from 14 to 11 percentage points. And in third grade, the gap between Hispanic and white students on track dropped from 13 to 8 percentage points over the same time period. For Black students, it remains at 19 percentage points.

Third grade, Lambert said, is when foundational skills are supposed to come together for students so they can learn from what theyre reading.

Thats what Jean Hesson, elementary supervisor for the Sumner County Schools in Tennessee, hopes to see this spring when this years third graders take the state test.

Related: The Evidence is Clear: Ohio Gov Pushes For Science of Reading As Only Approach

These are our COVID kids, she said. Even though the district has adopted a strong curriculum, ultimately you have 20 wildcards sitting in front of you. You have to know where your kids are.

As in districts statewide, Sumner teachers are now required to use phonics-based instruction. The district adopted the Wit and Wisdom curriculum for reading about history, science and other topics. It added the Fundations program for phonics and Geodes  a set of books that tie content and literacy skills together.

The pictures dont lend themselves to guessing words, Hesson said. Students truly have to decode and use their skills.

Almost 45% of last years third graders met or exceeded English language arts standards  an increase over pre-pandemic scores. Hesson is hoping that trend continues.

If we had not had high-quality materials, teachers would have been teaching in a million different directions, she said. I cant imagine the gaps that we would have created.
By Emma Farge and Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber

GENEVA (Reuters) - Ethiopia is courting support for a motion to cut short a U.N.-mandated inquiry into atrocities in the Tigray war, five diplomats said, in a move that could divide African and Western nations.

The Ethiopian government's two-year conflict with forces in the northern Tigray region ended last November with thousands dead and millions uprooted. Both sides blamed each other for widely-documented atrocities, including massacres, rape and detentions without trial.

Though the Geneva-based U.N. Human Rights Council has never ended a probe before its mandate, Addis Ababa has circulated a draft version of a resolution calling for the Tigray inquiry to stop some six months early. That would also block publication of findings and a final debate at the council.

Ethiopian government spokesperson Legesse Tulu and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's spokesperson Billene Seyoum did not respond to requests for comment.

Addis Ababa has opposed the investigation from the outset, calling it politically motivated and trying to block funding.

Ethiopia's proposed motion has not yet been formally submitted to the 47-member rights council, which meets from Monday until April 4. Two of the diplomats familiar with the matter said there were ongoing efforts to dissuade Addis Ababa.

"It would be a terrible precedent," said a Western diplomat in Geneva.

AFRICAN OPPOSITION

The war pitted the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) against federal troops, who were also backed by fighters from nearby Amhara region and Eritrea.

Allegations of abuses have persisted since the formal cessation of hostilities on Nov. 2.

Since three independent experts began work at the end of 2021, the inquiry has found "reasonable grounds to believe" that parties in the conflict committed war crimes and other abuses.

But political support has faded in recent months, most notably among African states which all opposed its renewal in October. The probe was extended for another year by a tiny margin.

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Diplomats said any vote on a possible Ethiopian motion would be tight and would pit Western countries, including the European Union that helped set up the investigation, against African partners. The West needs allies against China in the divided council and against Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

"It would be a big fight," said one of the diplomats, who opposes early termination of the mandate.The U.S. ambassador to the council, Michele Taylor, confirmed that Ethiopia was considering an early halt to the mandate: "We oppose the precedent that it would set.

We do not think that it is helpful for their (Ethiopia's) current process and progress."

(Reporting by Emma Farge, Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber; Additional reporting by Dawit Endeshaw in Addis Ababa)
By Nandita Bose and Mica Rosenberg

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The Biden administration announced measures to crack down on child labor on Monday amid a steep rise in violations and investigative reports by Reuters and other news outlets on illegal employment of migrant minors in dangerous U.S. industries.

U.S. officials said the Labor Department had seen a nearly 70% increase in child labor violations since 2018, including in hazardous occupations. In the last fiscal year, 835 companies were found to have violated child labor laws.

U.S. officials told reporters on a Monday conference call that the administration was probing the employment of children at companies including Hearthside Food Solutions and suppliers to Hyundai Motor Co. It has created an interagency task force on child labor, and plans to target industries where violations are most likely to occur for investigations.

The Democratic administration of U.S. President Joe Biden is also pushing for heavier penalties for companies that violate these laws, and more funding for enforcement and oversight, they said. U.S. federal law prohibits people under age 16 from working in most factory settings, and those under 18 are barred from the most dangerous jobs in industrial plants.

"This isn't a 19th century problem, this isn't a 20th century problem, this is happening today," said one of the officials on the call. "We are seeing children across the country working in conditions that they should never ever be employed in the first place."

The maximum civil monetary penalty is currently just $15,138 per child, the administration noted in a press release, a figure that's "not high enough to be a deterrent."

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) opened an investigation into Hearthside Food Solutions, a U.S. food contractor that makes and packages products for well-known snack and cereal brands, for reportedly employing underage workers and violating child labor laws, officials confirmed on the call.

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Reuters reported the DOL's investigation into Hearthside earlier on Monday.

The company came under scrutiny following a New York Times investigation that said Hearthside's factories employed underage workers making Chewy granola bars and bags of Lucky Charms and Cheetos, which the company would later ship around the country.

It was not clear whether the probe will lead to criminal charges, fines or other penalties. Hearthside said in a statement the company would "work collaboratively with the Department of Labor in their investigation and do our part to continue to abide by all local, state and federal employment laws," and that they were "appalled" by the report alleging child labor at their company.

The Hearthside investigation is the latest in a rise in similar probes. Reuters last year published a series of stories on child labor including revelations about the use of child labor among suppliers to Hyundai, including a direct subsidiary of the Korean auto giant, in the U.S. state of Alabama.

The first story in the Reuters series, published in February 2022, uncovered young teens working in dangerous chicken processing plants in Alabama.

Earlier this month, a major food safety sanitation company paid $1.5 million in penalties for employing more than 100 teenagers in dangerous jobs at meatpacking plants in eight states, following another Labor Department investigation.

As Reuters previously reported, a record number of unaccompanied migrant minors entered the country in recent years, with many entering federal shelters and then released to sponsors, usually relatives, while immigration authorities resolve their requests for refuge in the United States.

But authorities are struggling with long-term follow-up to prevent minors from being sucked into a vast network of enablers, including labor contractors, who recruit workers for big plants and other employers. At times they have steered kids into jobs that are illegal, grueling and meant for adults. The majority of minors Reuters found working were from Central America.

Separately, the Biden administration said earlier this year it will speed up the deportation relief process for immigrants in the United States illegally who witness or experience labor abuses.

"We also absolutely need to protect workers who do come forward and participate in wage and hour and other worker protection investigations and activities," one official said on the Monday call.

(Reporting by Nandita Bose in Washington and Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Kristina Cooke in San Francisco and Joshua Schneyer in New York; Editing by Mark Porter, Nick Zieminski and Heather Timmons)
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The White House on Monday gave government agencies 30 days to ensure they do not have Chinese-owned app TikTok on federal devices and systems.

In a bid to keep U.S. data safe, all federal agencies must eliminate TikTok from phones and systems and prohibit internet traffic from reaching the company, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young told agencies in a guidance memorandum seen by Reuters.

The ban, ordered by Congress late last year, follows similar actions from Canada, the EU, Taiwan and more than half of U.S. states.

The device ban  while impacting a tiny portion of TikTok's U.S. user base  adds fuel to calls for an outright ban on the video-sharing app. National security concerns about China surged in recent weeks after a Chinese balloon drifted over the U.S.

ByteDance-owned TikTok has said the concerns are fueled by misinformation and has denied using the app to spy on Americans. The action does not affect the more than 100 million Americans who use TikTok on private or company-owned devices. TikTok did not immediately comment on the White House memo.

Congress in December voted to bar federal employees from using the Chinese-owned video app on government-owned devices and gave the Biden administration 60 days to issue agency directives. The vote was the latest action by U.S. lawmakers to crack down on Chinese companies amid national security fears that Beijing could use them to spy on Americans.

Federal Chief Information Security Officer Chris DeRusha said "this guidance is part of the Administrations ongoing commitment to securing our digital infrastructure and protecting the American peoples security and privacy."

Many government agencies including the White House, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department had banned TikTok from government devices before the vote.

The TikTok ban does not apply if there are national security, law enforcement or security research activities but agency leadership must approve these activities, Young's memo said and "blanket exceptions applying to an entire agency are not permitted."

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On Tuesday, the House Foreign Affairs Committee is set to vote on a bill that would give President Joe Biden the authority to ban TikTok from all U.S. devices.

"My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any software applications that threaten U.S. national security," Representative Mike McCaul, the committee chair, said. "Anyone with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the (Chinese Communist Party) a backdoor to all their personal information. Its a spy balloon into your their phone."

The American Civil Liberties Union said it opposed a congressional ban on TikTok.

The White House memo said within 90 days, agencies must address any use of TikTok by IT vendors through contracts and with 120 days agencies will include a new prohibition on TikTok in all new solicitations.

Earlier on Monday, Canada announced a ban on TikTok from government-issued devices, saying it presents an "unacceptable" level of risk to privacy and security, adding to the growing rift between the two countries.

The Canadian ban was issued "without citing any specific security concern or contacting us with questions," a TikTok spokesperson said.

The European Union's two biggest policy-making institutions last week banned TikTok from staff phones for cybersecurity reasons.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Chris Sanders and Lisa Shumaker)
An extremely drunk man drove to Arbys, then placed an order for curly fries while in the drive-thru, according to police in Minnesota.

Shortly after placing his order, the man fell asleep, authorities said.

Officers with the Chaska Police Department were called to the fast food restaurant at about 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24. There, they found a 43-year-old driver who was unresponsive, according to a news release shared on Facebook.

Luckily, an observant patron noticed this and was able to open the drivers door and shift the vehicle into park, likely preventing damage to property and injury to others, police said.

Authorities said the driver was too drunk for standardized field sobriety tests, so they got a warrant to obtain a blood sample, police said. The man told officers he was drinking Boones Farm beverages before driving to Arbys.

Becoming extremely drunk and then driving to get curly fries is an incredibly selfish decision, authorities said. Thankfully the man was not driving at higher speeds on the city streets or highways at the time he fell asleep. Hell be charged accordingly.

Chaska is a suburb about 25 miles southwest of downtown Minneapolis.

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By Padraic Halpin

DUBLIN (Reuters) - The British government will be able to stop the application of new EU laws on goods in Northern Ireland if requested by a third of lawmakers in Northern Ireland's regional assembly, but only "in the most exceptional circumstances", the EU and Britain agreed on Monday.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hopes the so-called 'Stormont brake' can help win support from pro-British politicians in the region and some members of his own Conservative Party for a wider deal to overhaul post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland.

Following are some details about the measure:

HOW DOES IT WORK?

In a British government document setting out details of the deal, London said the mechanism gives it an "unequivocal veto" on EU rules when 30 members of Northern Ireland's devolved government from two or more parties object.

"Once the UK notifies the EU that the brake has been triggered, the rule in question is suspended automatically from coming into effect," the document published on the British government website said.

"It can then only be subsequently applied in Northern Ireland if the UK and EU both agree to that jointly in the (UK-EU) Joint Committee," the document said, referring to the main forum for UKEU consultation on Britain's withdrawal agreement.

"This would give the UK an unequivocal veto - enabling the rule to be permanently disapplied - within the Joint Committee."

London added that the new mechanism is not subject to European Court of Justice oversight, and that any dispute would be resolved through subsequent independent arbitration according to international and not EU law.

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Northern Ireland's largest pro-British party, would have to end a year-long boycott of the regional assembly, which it started in protest at the post-Brexit rules, for the 'Stormont brake' to become a reality.

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After winning 25 seats at elections last year, the DUP would need the support of five more politicians to try to trigger the brake. There are 12 other pro-British unionist politicians in the assembly now.

"MATTER OF LAST RESORT"

A separate unilateral declaration made by the UK government sets out how the mechanism would be triggered "under the most exceptional circumstances and as a matter of last resort".

Objecting local politicians would have to provide a detailed and publicly available written explanation that they have used every other available mechanism and that they had sought prior substantive discussion with the UK government and within the Northern Ireland power-sharing government.

The politicians would also have to have taken steps to consult businesses, other traders and civic society affected by the new or amended law.

If the UK accepts these conditions have been met, it would commence intensive consultations at the joint committee. In a document published on its website, the European Commission said an arbitration panel may rule on whether the conditions have been met.

It added that if the parties cannot agree either to add an amended or replacing law or to other measures, the EU can take appropriate remedial measures. This would be because of a divergence in trade rules between Northern Ireland and Ireland - and thus the broader EU, London noted.

The Commission also said the brake can only be triggered if the relevant law significantly differs in scope or content from the previous one and would have a significant impact on the everyday life of communities in Northern Ireland.

London said it cannot be "available for trivial reasons", while Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar told a news conference that there were "clear and strict rules" on its operation.

"The bar is set quite high," said Katy Hayward, professor of political sociology at Queen's University Belfast who has written extensively about the trade rules.

"Most of the amendments and replacements of the law are very anodyne and wouldn't really be noticed by most people. You wouldn't see it as something that would be a regular occurrence."

(Additional reporting by William James in London, Graham Fahy in Dublin and Amanda Ferguson in Belfast; Writing by Padraic Halpin; Editing by Michael Holden)
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau headquarters in Washington, DC. Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images

The Supreme Court will take on a lower court's decision that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's funding structure is unconstitutional.

The court argued the agency's funding should require Congressional approval. It's currently funded by the Federal Reserve.

CFPB was set up to prevent another 2008-like financial crisis and has cracked down on big banks and the student-loan industry.

The fate of a consumer watchdog championed by progressives lies with a conservative-majority Supreme Court.

On Monday, the Supreme Court agreed to take a decision from the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled in October that the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) funding structure is unconstitutional.

The three-judge panel  all appointed by former President Donald Trump  wrote in their ruling that the CFPB gets funding from the Federal Reserve, when it should be getting funding approval through Congressional legislation.

"Wherever the line between a constitutionally and unconstitutionally funded agency may be, this unprecedented arrangement crosses it," the judges wrote in their decision.

The Supreme Court won't hear the case until next term, though, meaning a final decision isn't likely until the spring of 2024.

Created in 2011 under former President Barack Obama, the CFPB was intended to protect Americans from another financial crisis following the 2008 recession. Championed by progressives like Sen. Elizabeth Warren, who helped create the agency, the CFPB has cracked down on big banks and the student-loan industry in particular. For example, the agency hit a student-loan company last year with a $1 million fine for deceiving student-loan borrowers with privately-held student-loans, and it sued for-profit schools accused of fraud.

Still, Republican lawmakers and conservatives have questioned how the agency functions in the past. In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that the CFPB's director was not immune from presidential oversight, and Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. also mentioned the agency's funding structure in his decision.

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"Unlike most other agencies, the CFPB does not rely on the annual appropriations process for funding," Roberts wrote. "Instead, the CFPB receives funding directly from the Federal Reserve, which is itself funded outside the appropriations process through bank assessments."

Rep. Patrick McHenry, Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services, said in a statement that "as Republicans have said for years, the CFPB's unconstitutional funding structure improperly insulates it from Americans' representatives in Congress."

President Joe Biden's administration and Democratic lawmakers have continued to push back on the Fifth Circuit's decision. Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar wrote to the Supreme Court that the lower court's "novel and ill-defined limits on Congress's spending authority contradict the Constitution's text, historical practice, and this Court's precedent."

Warren, who called the Fifth Circuit's decision "lawless and reckless" in October, said in a Monday statement that "if the Supreme Court follows more than a century of law and historical precedent, it will strike down the Fifth Circuit's decision before it throws our financial markets and economy into chaos."

Read the original article on Business Insider
The FBI on Monday arrested a man who allegedly stormed the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, riots while wearing a panda costume over his head, according to court records.

Authorities arrested Jesse James Rumson on several charges, including obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder, entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building and engaging in physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings, among other offenses, according to the arrest warrant.

An individual wearing a panda headpiece became known online as #SeditionPanda after being seen in footage of the riotous crowds marching toward the Capitol on Jan. 6.

According to an FBI agents statement included in the complaint, investigators identified Rumson as the individual sporting the panda costume based on footage of the headpiece both on and off throughout the riot.

The individual in the headpiece can allegedly be seen in footage entering the Capitol and roaming the interior halls. Investigators identified Rumson leaving the Capitol less than 15 minutes later without the panda costume.

The filing further alleges that Rumson was heard yelling GET A RAM! as he stood near the Senate wing door just before the door was breached for a second time.

Rumson was arrested in Florida on Monday, according to the records.

Nearly 1,000 people have been arrested nationwide for involvement in the Jan. 6 riot, the Justice Department said in a recent update.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Sometimes, obstruction is a black-and-white case.

On Monday, FBI agents in Florida arrested Jesse James Rumson, who they claim stormed the U.S. Capitol while wearing a giant panda head, earning the monicker Sedition Panda in the process.

Rumsons whereabouts on Jan. 6, 2021, werent particularly hard to track, thanks in no small part to the costume he wore off and on that day.

Federal officials also identified him thanks to his nose ring and a set of wooden rosary beads he carried, along with a silver flagpole and a Dont Tread on Me flag.

"Sedition Panda" Jesse James Rumson, as seen on Jan. 6, 2021.

In an affidavit filed last week, an FBI special agent testified that Rumson was among the first 20 rioters to enter the Capitol through a door on the buildings upper west terrace.

Security footage captured a man in a panda head entering the building shortly after the door was breached:

Here's footage from a Jan. 6 trial of what that break-in by the Senate Parliamentarian's office looked like from the inside: pic.twitter.com/BTBjH3LmIw  Ryan J. Reilly (@ryanjreilly) June 1, 2022

Once inside, Rumson apparently lost the panda head  and gained a pair of handcuffs on his wrists. He then exited the Capitol building, and other rioters helped him to remove the handcuffs, according to photos.

The affidavit states that shortly thereafter, Rumson urged on other members of the mob and yelled at them to GET A RAM! as they breached a separate entry into the building.

Photos later show him among a crowd of rioters clashing with a police line as officers tried to clear the property. He appears to grapple with an officer, grabbing him by the head.

A tipster first alerted the FBI to Sedition Pandas true identity in June 2021.

Rumson faces eight charges, including assaulting, resisting or impeding a police officer, obstructing law enforcement, and two separate counts related to acts of physical violence.

Related...
Getty Images

A federal judge ruled that $6 billion in student-debt relief for 200,000 borrowers can move forward.

It's a result of a settlement  Sweet v. Cardona  first filed under then-President Trump in 2019.

The judge rejected a request to pause the relief from a few of the schools targeted in the settlement.

Thousands of student-loan borrowers are finally moving forward with long-awaited debt relief.

On Friday evening, federal Judge William Alsup ruled that a settlement he had already approved last year resulting from a lawsuit  Sweet v. Cardona  can move forward, which would give 200,000 borrowers defrauded by the schools they attended $6 billion in debt relief.

This relief has been a long time coming. The lawsuit was first filed in 2019, when the plaintiffs accused former President Donald Trump's Education Department of failing to process their borrower defense claims, which are claims borrowers can file if they believe they were defrauded by their school. Since the lawsuit wasn't resolved under Trump, President Joe Biden took it on and agreed to a settlement to give borrowers relief.

However, two for-profit companies  Lincoln Educational Services Corp. and American National University  and Everglades College, Inc., a nonprofit, filed notices to appeal Alsup's decision in January and pause the relief because they argued they did not have sufficient time to push back against being included in the settlement. Alsup rejected their request on Friday.

"The settlement breaks a logjam that has vexed several Secretaries and allows the Department to redirect resources to other initiatives. And it gives plaintiffs, who have languished in borrower-defense application limbo, their long-awaited relief," Alsup wrote in his decision.

"Note the relief provided by this settlement (financial and otherwise) will allow plaintiffs to breathe easier, sleep easier, repair their credit scores, take new jobs, enroll in new educational programs, finish their degrees, get married, start families, provide for their children, finance houses and vehicles, and save for retirement," he continued. "It will allow them not only to move on, but also to move up, elevating others in the process."

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As Alsup was reviewing whether to pause the relief, the plaintiffs in the case filed an opposition to the request, writing that borrowers would be "severely harmed" if the relief keeps getting delayed.

"They have already waited years for the resolution of their borrower defense ('BD') applications, some of which have been pending since 2015," the filing said. "The loans that would be discharged under the Settlement continue to shadow them, affecting their credit, their livelihoods, their mental health, and countless other aspects of their lives. One hundred and forty-four borrowers have submitted declarations attesting to the harm a stay would cause them."

Along with automatic relief for 200,000 borrowers, the settlement also allows for a streamlined review of another 64,000 borrower defense applications. Eileen Connor, president and director of the Project on Predatory Student Lending  the company that represented the plaintiffs  wrote in a statement that Alsup's Friday decision "delivers a massive, long-overdue victory for our clients and validates the fact that this settlement is on solid legal ground."

"Now, hundreds of thousands of people and families who have been held hostage by the borrower defense process for so long will finally receive a fair resolution and the justice they are owed," Connor said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Federal Trade Commission is expected to challenge the $13 billion takeover of mortgage data company Black Knight by financial services giant Intercontinental Exchange, according to three people with direct knowledge of the matter.

A case is expected to be filed some time in March, said the people, who were granted anonymity to discuss a confidential matter. The FTC believes the deal would give Intercontinental Exchange, which also owns the NYSE, too much power in the multi-trillion dollar U.S. mortgage market, and come at the expense of both higher home prices for consumers and competitors in the mortgage data and services industry, the people said.

The FTC has been investigating the deal since shortly after it was announced nearly a year ago and if the companies choose to defend against a possible lawsuit, it could potentially delay the deals close into 2024. The timing of a lawsuit could slip and no decision is final until a case has been filed, the people said.



A lawsuit would also be the latest volley from President Joe Bidens antitrust enforcers, FTC Chair Lina Khan and Assistant Attorney General for antitrust Jonathan Kanter, who have both pledged to rein in corporate consolidation. The FTC is currently challenging deals including Microsofts takeover of video game giant Activision Blizzard, and the DOJ is likely to challenge JetBlues takeover of Spirit Airlines.

ICE founder and CEO Jeffrey Sprecher is a major GOP donor. His wife is former Georgia Republican Sen. Kelly Loeffler.

Spokespeople for ICE and Black Knight declined to comment. An FTC spokesperson declined to comment.

The ICE-Black Knight merger would bring together the two largest companies offering loan origination software, essentially the pipe connecting brokers with lenders. The companies have offered to sell Black Knights loan origination platform Empower, to resolve the so-called horizontal overlap between the companies, one of the people said. That is not enough, however, to allay the FTCs concerns that the merger would give the combined company too much control over data and technology in the residential mortgage market, that person said.

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The FTC believes that just selling Empower though does not curtail all of the head-to-head competition between the companies, two of the people said. Both companies offer a variety of services that operate with the loan origination platform, including the data analytics business Optimal Blue.

Reuters previously reported that Black Knight had hired bankers to help sell Empower.

ICE, which operates major financial exchanges and clearinghouses, has expanded into the mortgage market in recent years. It recently acquired Encompass, its loan origination offering, through its $11 billion purchase of mortgage software company Ellie Mae in 2020. And in 2018 it completed its buyout of Merscorp, which operates a national electronic registry of U.S. mortgages.



In 2019 and 2020, Black Knight bought a pair of companies  Compass Analytics and Optimal Blue  that provide a variety of data and analytics services to lenders to help them price loans. Through those deals it has a leading position in the software used by banks to price loans.

Companies including the government-backed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as well as financial technology start-ups like Roostify and Blend rely on the loan origination platforms from Black Knight and ICE.

In another example of the rapidly consolidating mortgage technology market, Roostify was bought last week by CoreLogic, which itself fended off an earlier takeover bid by Black Knight.

We depend on the interoperability of our platform across third-party applications and services that we do not control, Blend says in securities filings. While it does not mention either Black Knight or ICE by name, it says it relies on loan origination and pricing tools that the combined company would dominate.

The companies Surefire and Velocify services also compete head-to-head in the marketing of mortgage services from lenders.

The deal has faced opposition from lawmakers, consumer groups, customers and competitors, with FTC hearing a number of concerns from companies who rely on Black Knight and ICE that their access will either be lost or degraded after the merger, two of the people said.

The deal would make ICE the largest mortgage services company in the housing ecosystem said Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), the top Democrat on the House Financial Services Committee. The new company could exert significant market power over loan pricing for consumers, access to and sale of consumer data, and mortgage software pricing, she said in a late December letter to Khan urging the FTC to block the deal.

Federal Financial Analytics managing partner Karen Petrou urged the FTC to block the acquisition in an early February report, arguing that combining ICEs critical mortgage services with Black Knight would give it unrivaled power to control the prices set on each mortgage, the terms on which credit is provided, the lenders offered the most advantageous terms, and the extent to which home ownership is available on affordable, equitable terms in rural, urban and majority-minority communities.

That report outlining Petrous case was funded by an anonymous company opposing the deal, but Federal Financial Analytics said it had complete control over the final product.

Zachary Warmbrodt contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A spokesman for Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman says the Democrat is on a path to recovery after checking himself into a hospital for clinical depression earlier this month, and he is still expected to be away from the Senate for several weeks.

We understand the intense interest in Johns status and especially appreciate the flood of well-wishes, Fettermans communications director, Joe Calvello, said in a statement Monday afternoon. However, as we have said this will be a weeks-long process and while we will be sure to keep folks updated as it progresses, this is all there is to give by way of an update.

Fetterman is being treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he checked in Feb. 15 as he was still struggling with the aftereffects of a stroke. His office said at the time that he had experienced depression off and on throughout his life, but it had only become severe in recent weeks. Capitol Physician Brian P. Monahan recommended his hospitalization after an evaluation, his office said then.

Fetterman, 53, suffered the stroke last May as he was campaigning in a tough Senate race against GOP nominee Dr. Mehmet Oz. He won the election in November and was sworn in Jan. 3, giving Democrats an extra seat in the Senate and a 51-49 majority.

One of Fetterman's main aftereffects from the stroke is auditory processing disorder, which can render someone unable to speak fluidly and quickly process spoken conversation into meaning. To manage it, Fetterman uses devices in conversations, meetings and congressional hearings that transcribe spoken words in real time.

Post-stroke depression is common, with one in three stroke patients suffering from it, and is treatable through antidepressant medication and counseling, doctors say.

Pennsylvania's other senator, Democrat Bob Casey, returned to the Senate on Monday. He had also been away in recent weeks after he underwent surgery for prostate cancer.
By Nathan Layne

(Reuters) -Jurors in the murder trial of disbarred South Carolina lawyer Richard "Alex" Murdaugh will visit the family estate where prosecutors said he gunned down his wife and youngest son, the judge ruled on Monday.

Murdaugh's lawyer Dick Harpootlian asked Judge Clifton Newman to allow the jurors to visit the crime scene "to get some understanding of spatial relationships" at the dog kennels where the murders took place on the evening of June 7, 2021.

Newman granted the surprise request, over an objection from the prosecution, as the trial entered its sixth week. Newman said he would arrange a "jury view" of the Moselle estate following the testimony from four or five rebuttal witnesses for the prosecution scheduled for Tuesday.

Murdaugh's defense team called its final three witnesses on Monday, resting its case. Once the jury visits Moselle, it will hear closing arguments and start deliberations, likely in the second half of the week.

The case has drawn intense media coverage, given the political influence of the Murdaugh legal family in South Carolina. Murdaugh, the scion of the family, was indicted by a grand jury in July and pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon. He faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted.

MURDAUGH'S TESTIMONY

Murdaugh on the witness stand last week testified that he had lied about his whereabouts on the night his wife Maggie, 52, and son Paul, 22, were killed but said he had nothing to do with their deaths. Investigators said Paul was gunned down in the feed room near the kennels, and his mother killed nearby.

Harpootlian said a visit to the Murdaugh's 1,800-acre estate would allow jurors to see "how small the feed room is" and understand its location in relation to Maggie's body, as well as to other components of the property.

"You just can't really appreciate the spatial issues without actually seeing them," Harpootlian said.

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Lead state prosecutor Creighton Waters objected to the jury visiting, arguing the estate looked different than it did in 2021 and said a visit might require additional testimony from the state.

During his testimony, Murdaugh floated his own theory of who committed the murders, saying he believed someone angry over a deadly boating accident involving Paul in 2019 had done so. He acknowledged that he lacked evidence to support that theory.

For the prosecution, Waters has sought to portray Murdaugh as a serial liar who committed the murders amid mounting financial troubles, and as he faced growing scrutiny over schemes to deceive law partners and clients out of huge sums of money to feed a drug habit and support a wealthy lifestyle.

JURY HEARS FORENSIC EXPERTS

Murdaugh changed his account of his whereabouts on the night of the killings after the jury saw cellphone video containing audio of his voice placing him at the scene.

Monday's three defense witnesses included two forensic experts who both testified to aspects of the investigation they believed that law enforcement got wrong.

One expert, crime scene analyst Tim Palmbach, said he believed there was likely more than one shooter, citing the use of two separate firearms and other factors.

"My opinion is the totality of the evidence is more suggestive of a two-shooter scenario," Palmbach testified.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne in Wilton, Connecticut; Editing by Will Dunham, Bernadette Baum and Grant McCool)
Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Sen. Elizabeth Warren asked advocacy groups last month to tell her how student-debt relief would impact their members.

Their responses, released on Monday, showed severe financial strain if the relief gets struck down.

The cases that challenged Biden's debt relief are headed to the Supreme Court on Tuesday.

A day before Supreme Court oral arguments begin on President Joe Biden's student-loan forgiveness program, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren released a report on the deleterious effects failing to uphold the president's relief measure would have on millions of borrowers.

Warren has been a vocal lawmaker pushing for student-loan forgiveness, and last month, she asked nearly 20 advocacy groups  including the NAACP and debtor's union the Debt Collective  to tell her how failure to deliver debt relief would impact their members.

Warren's report was shared exclusively with Insider.

The responses emphasized that the relief would help borrowers from low-income and "historically underrepresented communities" the most, and that "denying student debt cancellation would cause financial disaster for millions of Americans."

"If the Supreme Court sides with the extremist judges, millions of Americans' monthly costs will rise significantly when student loan payments resume later this year," the report said.

"Further, nearly every response to Senator Warren's inquiry cited the financial hardship of COVID-19 compounding the existing student loan burden felt by millions of Americans," it added. "Reducing debt burdens through cancellation will help avoid defaults when student loan payments resume and ensure borrowers do not face financial ruin as the economy continues its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic."

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court will be taking on the two conservative-backed lawsuits that paused the implementation of Biden's plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for federal borrowers making under $125,000 a year. Biden's relief has been on pause since November, and during that time, Democratic lawmakers criticized opponents of the plan, while the GOP urged the Supreme Court to strike down Biden's relief permanently.

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Recent data from the Education Department has found that 81% of all applications for debt relief before the online form closed in November came from the bottom 80% of congressional districts based on average income, and the bottom 80% of those districts have more borrowers eligible for relief than the top 20%.

A member of the United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) told Warren in the report that if the Supreme Court strikes down the debt relief, it "would mean that the possibility of my future as a homeowner or retire evaporate and I'm going to continue the cycle of working until I die as a renter living paycheck to paycheck. A decision to deny student loan relief means that I remain uncertain if medication could improve my ability to follow my scholarly interests in research."

Still, Republican lawmakers have been adamant that canceling student debt broadly is unfair to those who already paid off their loans or did not borrow for college. GOP lawmakers also contend that the relief would benefit the highest earners. Over half of the House GOP and nearly all Republican senators filed amicus briefs to the Supreme Court opposing the relief, with Chair of the House education committee Virginia Foxx of North Carolina writing in a statement that "Congress is the only body with the authority to enact sweeping and fundamental changes of this nature, and it is ludicrous for President Biden to assume he can simply bypass the will of the American people."

But Warren's report suggests that many Americans want this relief, and financial consequences could be severe without it.

Lawsuits are causing 'financial anxiety for vulnerable borrowers'

Failing to implement debt relief would put a strain on younger and older borrowers alike. A member of the Debt Collective said in the report, "I'm putting all of my hope into this process finally getting approval. I haven't allowed myself to imagine another scenario because I may not continue even trying to exist everyday if that happens. This debt follows me daily."

Another 64-year-old member said that "the thought of having the loan payments starting again in general and without cancellation terrifies me. It means I might have to take a second job or use my 401K retirement money to pay for the loans. I [cannot] plan for retirement."

Biden extended the student-loan payment pause 60 days after June 30, or 60 days after the cases are resolved, whichever happens first, meaning payments could still resume if the Supreme Court strikes down student-debt relief. While the White House has maintained confidence in the legality of its plan and previously said it is not devising a backup plan if its relief gets struck down, many borrowers are struggling to financially plan.

A borrower with $230,000 in student debt previously told Insider that his "fear, regardless of the outcome of the case, is that the White House is so desperate to restart payments and get back to normal that they've forgotten that 'normal' is a decades-long debt sentence; either way, it will be an excuse to say they'd done all the can."

Now, all eyes turn to the Supreme Court, which is expected to hand down rulings in the two cases before the end of its term, typically in late June or early July.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The Covington Police Department is asking for the publics help in identifying a man they said took money that was left in an ATM.

Police told Channel 2 Action News that on Feb. 7th, the man removed cash from the Wells Fargo ATM located inside the QuikTrip at 3214 Highway 278.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

According to police, surveillance footage showed a Black man with dreads grabbing the cash.

TRENDING STORIES:

Its unclear who the money belonged to and how much cash the suspect grabbed.

Anyone with any information that can help identify the suspect is asked to contact Covington Police.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
"Close" director Lukas Dhont with his actors, Gustav De Waele, center, and Eden Dambrine. The teens are excited about going to the Oscars. "I was falling on the ground, jumping up in the air," Dambrine says of learning their movie had been nominated in the international film category. (Yuri Hasegawa / For The Times)

Its hard to imagine two Belgian teenagers experiencing anything during the last 12 months like Eden Dambrine and Gustav De Waele have. The pair walked the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival last May. They have gone from complete anonymity to being recognized on trains and walking through airports. Still, the impact of the success of their feature film debut, Close, didn't fully sink in until it landed an Oscar nomination as Belgiums submission in the international film category in January.

De Waele, who turns 15 next month, set an alarm to remind himself of the announcement during a dance lesson. Dambrine was also in school but wasnt going to miss out on watching it live. He recalls, I was in Dutch class. I was watching on YouTube, and when I heard Close, I was like to my friends, Oh, my God, oh, my God. I started crying, I'm like, Can I go to the toilet, please? I was falling on the ground, jumping up in the air. All the emotion came into my body, which was kind of scary, but it was great.

And if youre curious how Dambrines teacher wasnt aware he was looking at his phone, the 16-year-old snaps, I'm a pro. I do this every day.

Directed and co-written by Lukas Dhont, Close follows two young teenagers, Leo (Dambrine) and Remi (De Waele), who have formed a friendship that is emotionally resonant. A friendship you rarely see with boys their age. When the pair return to school after a blissful summer break hanging out together, peer pressure begins to affect the relationship in dramatic fashion. The drama was awarded the Grand Prix , effectively second place, at Cannes and has driven audiences to tears in theaters across the globe.

Dhont says he and his team spent months visiting Belgian schools searching for the right actors to play Leo and Remi.

We just spoke to a lot of young people and invited them to do a casting if they wanted to. And we met many, many great people just like that, Dhont says. I mean, Gustav I know because Oliver [Roels], who did these castings with me, had worked once with Gustav during one of those workshops. And he remembered Gustav as someone really, really remarkable, someone really with a lot of talent.

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Dambrine, on the other hand, was a true Hollywood discovery. The filmmaker was on a train to Ghent when he caught Dambrine in the car interacting with his friends. The youngster admits he was a little suspicious after Dhont approached him but was intrigued by the offer to audition for the movie. He recalls, When he was gone, I called my mother directly. I was like, OK. So, there was a man on the train and now he's asking me to go casting for his new movie. She was like, Who is he? Run out of the train. Go out. Run. I'm going to get  I was like, No, no, it's OK. So, my mom gave me permission to do the casting, but she had to meet Lukas first.

The casting process featured 20 or so prospective actors participating in small improvisational exercises, lessons that would benefit them even if they didnt get the role. And whether paired together or not, Dambrine and De Waele instinctively gravitated toward each other. After landing the roles it was important to Dhont that the boys developed a true friendship before filming began in the summer of 2021.

Lukas didn't want us to learn lines; he wanted us to write the words in our heads while playing, De Waele says. He wanted the words to come out of our personalities so the words we were saying were words that in real life we would use also. So, at the rehearsals, we met a lot of people [working on the movie]. Lukas wanted us to create bonds with those people before shooting. And also, when he was casting my mother in the movie, he asked me to be there. And, it sounds silly, but he asked us to bake a cake together.

Lukas Dhont. (Yuri Hasegawa / For The Times)

Dambrine spends half his day in dance classes, and De Waele had some theater training, but Dhont was laser-focused on making sure they never became too self-conscious about their characters or the moviemaking process.

I never want them to feel the technique. I never wanted to see the lights. That's why we always take the lights outside of the [acting] space, Dhont says. I never want them to feel worried about the [dolly] tracks or the things on set. I never created like the mark on the floor and say, You need to stand here. We didn't do anything like that. I have a great team of people around me. They all know that what we want to prioritize is the energy of the actors.

Close has already had a successful theatrical run in Europe, and the Oscars are, effectively, the end of the journey for the two teens. But they are both understandably excited about attending the ceremony. Dambrine hopes that Timothee Chalamet attends and would be happy to run into Austin Butler again after a brief exchange at Cannes. De Waele has a cinematic legend hed like to meet, even though he knows, well, yeah, but he's dead.

I am excited to see everyone, of course. I would really like to meet Billy Wilder. I already met him a bit because I went to Sunset Boulevard, De Waele says. Maybe I would love to see Steven Spielberg. I really love all his movies. And Tom Hanks.

(L-R) Lukas Dhont, Eden Dambrine and Gustav De Waele. (Yuri Hasegawa / For The Times)

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A frame from the film by Dmytro Komarov

During the filming of his documentary at a hospital in Severodonetsk, Komarov met a boy named Petrovych. The boy said that his mother had disappeared, and his father had earlier left for work. Together with his older brother, they had lived alone for a week until the Ukrainian military found them and evacuated from Rubizhne.

The boy told Komarov that while he and his brother were sleeping, a missile hit the house and totally destroyed it. In the documentary, the boy asks the journalist if he will take him and his brother to their father.

After the documentarys premiere on the anniversary of the full-scale invasion, Luhansk regional governor Serhiy Hayday shared on Facebook the continuation of the boys story.

According to the governor, Rubizhne in April was a hellhole. The town was divided in half. Ukraine controlled the Pivdennyi district, from which people were evacuated.

In late April, while patrolling the town, members of the Ukrainian National Guard found two boys lacking adult supervision. The boys said that their mother had disappeared. The children were taken to the Severodonetsk hospital, where they were given psychological help.

It turned out that the childrens father was in the city of Poltava, and the children were brought to him the next day. Meanwhile, their mothers fate remained unknown.

But in a few days, a woman came to the position of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Rubizhne, Hayday said.

What she said was beyond belief... In early April, the orcs (sic) stopped her on the street, and actually abducted her, and kept her in an organized prison in one of the captured administrative buildings for several days. By blackmailing her kids, they forced her to spy on the positions of Ukrainian defenders.

He added that the woman had been beaten and abused, but later released.

When she returned home, she didnt find her kids, so she decided to walk to Severodonetsk, Hayday said.

On the way, the woman met servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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The family has now been reunited, Hayday added.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
By Ayenat Mersie

DADAAB, Kenya (Reuters) - When her three-month-old baby fell sick from malnutrition, Dool Abdirahman Ismael left her village in Somalia and walked for three days through swirling dust and scorching heat to the Dadaab Refugee Camp just across the border in Kenya.

Ismael, 26, said she had hoped Dadaab would be free of the hunger and sickness she fled in Somalia, where the worst drought in decades and surging food prices have left millions of people in need of aid.

Instead, the young mother found barren land, overcrowding and scant resources at Dadaab, one of the world's largest refugee camps and home to 300,000 people.

In a ward for severely malnourished children, Ismael said her baby's condition had not improved since arriving at Dadaab. Severe malnourishment had made the baby's head swell with liquid - a common effect of malnutrition in children.

"There hasn't been improvement," Ismael said, cradling the infant.

After five consecutive failed rainy seasons, parts of Somalia are on the verge of famine and the rest of the country is faring little better. In the past two years, the drought has displaced one million Somalis and about 100,000 have fled to Kenya, according to the United Nations.

At Dadaab alone, at least 6,000 Somalis fleeing hunger have arrived at the camp since the start of the year, U.N. data shows, but aid workers say the number not yet registered in the U.N. system is up to five times that number.

Those who flee often find little relief in neighbouring countries which have also been hit by the Horn of Africa's worst drought in more than four decades and are groaning under the strain of an influx of new refugees.

"The new arrivals bring a scarcity to the already little resources that are available for the population here," said Dr. Marvin Ngao, the top medical official for the International Rescue Committee (IRC), an aid group that runs health facilities in Dadaab.

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OVERCROWDING

Dadaab is a vast, dusty expanse of shops, bustling streets and makeshift houses built from white United Nations tarps. Somalis started arriving here in 1991 when their country descended into civil war.

When refugees first arrive, many depend on extended family networks within the camp to share their limited rations since it can take weeks or months to start receiving their own.

This, combined with rising food prices and poor farming and herding conditions due to the drought, means long-term camp residents are also vulnerable to hunger. In the past year, 32 children have died of malnutrition in the section of the camp run by the IRC, Ngao said.

Aid agencies are struggling to keep up. The U.N. refugee agency said it has received only about half of the $11.1 million it needs for its work in northern Kenya.

The overcrowding is also driving the spread of communicable diseases like cholera. There have been hundreds of cases since October, according to the IRC.

Nevertheless, hundreds of Somalis continue to arrive in Dadaab each day. The U.N. says there could be about 90,000 new arrivals by year-end.

Dahir Suleiman Ali, a 68-year-old farmer, had been resisting pressure from his extended family to leave Somalia for the past two years, but he had little choice when the local river dried up late last year.

"This was the worst drought I have ever seen," he said.

(Reporting by Ayenat Mersie; Editing by Aaron Ross and Raissa Kasolowsky)
PANAMA CITY  An interactive street art festival is returning for its third year and has grown into what might be the biggest celebration of creativity in downtown Panama City.

Hosted by Bay Arts Alliance, the Florida Luxe Arts Festival  or FLLuxe  will be held March 3 from 4 to 8 p.m. and March 4 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. outside the Panama City Center for the Arts, 19 E. Fourth St.

In case you missed it:Panama City Passion Play set to return after five-year hiatus. Here's when and where

Also:Thunder Beach announces three more headliners for spring rally

The Bay Arts Alliance has added a day to this years festival, which features national and local chalk artists, local musicians, artisanal vendors, food trucks, dancers and more. Organizers said they're expecting their biggest turnout yet.

The Flluxe Arts Festival is scheduled for Saturday, March 19, 2022 in the parking lot at Destination Panama City. Local and national artists worked on Thursday and Friday to get ahead of expected bad weather.

FLLuxe continues to grow as more artists and musicians join in on this fun event, said Jayson Kretzer, executive director of Bay Arts. We are humbled by the continued support of our community. Without that support, putting together a festival of this magnitude and keeping it free to the public just simply would not be possible.

I am so excited for FLLuxe this year, said Tori Haudenschild, Bay Arts' education and events manager. We have added a few unique elements to include a community chalk workshop, fun colorful installations and a nighttime portion of the festival that I cannot wait to share with the community.

FLLuxe is free, and everyone is encouraged to join the fun with chalk and entertainment.

Presenting sponsors for the event include Destination Panama City, the Downtown Improvement Board, Panama City's Quality of Life Department, Beachy Beach Real Estate, History Class Brewing Company and the Press Downtown.

A closer look into FLLuxe Arts Festival

Inspired by the names of popular festivals like Bonaroo and Lollapalooza, FLLuxe was born with hopes that the brand name was something that would stick with visitors. The event, which started in 2021, features a combination of arts, including murals, chalk art, projections and live music.

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The Flluxe Arts Festival will take place Friday and Saturday in the parking lot at the Center for the Arts.

More than 20 chalk artists will be in attendance both days of the event, including national chalk artists Naomi Haverland, Chris Carlson and Tracy Lee Stum, who will bring their talents of 3-D interactive chalk art pieces onto the streets of downtown.

I love to watch the artists design, create, and install their chalk art in a matter of a few days, which is crazy impressive, Haudenschild said. In addition, we have a few surprises planned for our evening event that you wont want to miss.

Throughout the day, attendees can watch the artists while they work, enjoy performances by local musicians and dancers, and explore creative vendors offering crafts, face painting, tie-dye shirts and hand-crafted jewelry.

Live music will play at the Center for the Arts in one-hour intervals starting Friday at 4 p.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m.

Singer-songwriter Michael Lister is featured on the Saturday's music line up during the FLLuxe Arts Festival.

Fridays performers include Jack & Gin, Vibe, Katrina Marshall and Wally Tirado. Meanwhile, Saturdays performances feature shows from Kelsey Eiman, Fat Polly, Jack & Gin, Michael Lister, The Parvanas, Fishin Musician, Corey Hall, The St. Andrews Ukelele Orchestra, Caesar Salad, Fat Polly and Woods the Band.

For more information about this years FLLuxe Arts Festival, visit www.FLLuxeArtsFestival.com.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: FLLuxe Arts Festival set to return to downtown Panama City
Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has finished her role at the White House.

President Joe Biden announced Monday morning that former Columbia, South Carolina Mayor Stephen Benjamin will now serve as Senior Advisor and Director of the Office of Public Engagement for the White House.

Bottoms took on the role in June. According to the White House, the position was supposed to be for just six months, but the White House asked her to extend the role through November.

I was proud to bring a different voice and a different face to the White House: A voice from the South, an African-American woman in this White House. It was extraordinary, Bottoms said in an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Sitting across from the president in the Oval Office, he knew that whatever my response was, I was speaking for so many people.

The position works at the local, state, and national levels to ensure community leaders, diverse perspectives, and new voices have the opportunity to inform the work of the President in an inclusive, transparent, and responsible way, a news release said.

TRENDING STORIES:

Under Keishas leadership, the Office of Public Engagement has kept equity at the heart of our agenda and continues to serve as the connective tissue between our Administration and everyday Americans who may not have a voice to reach Washington otherwise. I have leaned on Keisha as a close advisor with exceptional instincts, and I am grateful to her for serving our nation with honor and integrity. I wish her the best as she returns home to Atlanta to be with her family, Biden said.

Bottoms, who served as mayor of Atlanta from 2018 through 2021, joined the Biden administration last summer to replace Cedric Richmond, a former Louisiana congressman who was Bidens first Office of Public Engagement director as well as a close adviser.

RELATED NEWS:




A rising star of the Italian left has won election to the leadership of the Democratic Party, the countrys second-largest political group. Thirty-seven-year-old Elly Schlein will serve as the main opposition leader to Giorgia Meloni, the countrys far-right prime ministerthe first time both of these roles have been held by women simultaneously.

Schlein was born in Switzerland to an Italian mother and an American father. She holds dual Italian-US citizenship, obtained a law degree from the University of Bologna, and has previously lived in the US, working on former president Barack Obamas electoral campaigns in 2008 and 2012. Schlein served in the European Parliament for a five-year term between 2014 and 2019, but became more prominent on the Italian political scene the following year.



Read more

In 2020, Schleins campaign proved decisive in securing an election win for the center-left coalition in Emilia-Romagna, a traditionally left-wing region in Northern Italy that was seeing a rise in right-wing preferences. She was the most-voted candidate in the election and was appointed deputy to the regions newly elected president, Stefano Bonaccini. Schlein left that role in 2022 to run in the parliamentary election, winning a seat in the Chamber of Deputies.



Ironically, it was Bonaccini that Schlein beat on Sunday (Feb. 26) to succeed outgoing Democratic Party leader Enrico Letta, winning 54% of the nearly 1 million votes cast. Schleins election marks a shift to the left for a party that had recently sought to occupy a more centrist place in Italian politics. An openly bisexual woman, she has taken a progressive stance on issues like same-sex marriage, the environment, and the migrant crisisviews that have, among other things, led to comparisons with US Democratic Party lawmaker Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.



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Where Schlein and Meloni stand on key issues

Immigration: Meloni made Europes refugee crisis a cornerstone of her political rhetoric during her campaign in the general election after stating in her 2021 biography that mass migration dilutes ethnic identity. Schlein has sharply criticized the Italian governments current immigration policy, advocating for a humanitarian response to the countrys influx of refugees.

Civil rights: Meloni made headlines when she demanded that the Italian state broadcaster ban an episode of the popular childrens television show Peppa Pig that featured a lesbian couple, saying we cannot accept gender indoctrination. Gay marriage is not legal in Italy and the current government has called same-sex parenting not normal. Schlein is openly bisexual and has campaigned heavily on progressive social issues.

Ukraine: Meloni has remained a staunch supporter of Volodymyr Zelenskyy, despite members of her governing coalition blaming the Ukrainian leader for Russias invasion of Ukraine. Although the Democratic Party has supported sending military aid to Ukraine, Schlein has express doubt about sending additional arms, saying, as a pacifist, I dont think that weapons alone will end the war.



Environment: A former member of Italys green party, Schlein supports heavy investment in renewable energy sources and has criticized nuclear energy. Meloni has said that radical green policies will make Europe lose thousands of companies and millions of jobs, but has also said mitigating climate change is a priority for her government.



Identity: Meloni has vowed to protect Italians from a genocide against Christians and said that she will defend the values of God, country, and family as prime minister. In her previous role as vice-president of Emilia-Romagna, Schlein was in charge of promoting social equity.



Labor Unions: Schlein has promised to involve labor unions in her partys leadership, while Meloni has seen criticism and protests from unions across Italy.





Quotable:

Not all female leadership helps women ... It helps nothing to have a female premier if all the rights for other women are overturned, including control over their own bodies. Schlein said at a campaign rally in Festa dellUnita in Modena during the general election last year, arguing that Melonis victory would not be a substantive victory for Italian women.



What countries have female heads of state?

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By Nate Raymond

BOSTON (Reuters) - Lawyers for former Roman Catholic Cardinal Theodore McCarrick on Monday asked a Massachusetts judge to dismiss a criminal case charging him with molesting a 16-year-old boy in 1974, saying the 92-year-old is not mentally competent to face trial due to dementia.

McCarrick, a former archbishop of Washington, D.C., last July became the only current or former U.S. Catholic cardinal to ever face child sex abuse charges after prosecutors charged him with three counts of indecent assault and battery.

Defense lawyers in a motion filed in Dedham District Court said an examination by a professor of psychiatry and behavioral science at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found McCarrick has dementia, likely due to Alzheimers disease.

His lawyers argued that although McCarrick remains "intelligent and articulate," his dementia, and the resulting decline in his memory, renders him incapable of meaningfully assisting in his defense.

"In short, Mr. McCarrick's dementia severely constrains his constitutional rights to establish his own innocence," defense lawyers including Daniel Marx and Barry Coburn wrote.

During a hearing on Monday, the prosecution told Judge Michael Pomarole that it plans to hire an expert for its own evaluation. The next hearing is April 20.

McCarrick, who is free on bail and lives in Missouri, was expelled from the Roman Catholic priesthood in 2019 after a Vatican investigation found him guilty of sexual crimes against minors and adults.

The case is the only criminal prosecution he has faced despite lawsuits by other men accusing him of sexual abuse decades ago. A legal quirk froze the statute of limitations in the case after McCarrick, a non-resident, left Massachusetts.

According to court records, the alleged victim said McCarrick, a family friend, began molesting him when he was a boy.

The man told police that during his brother's wedding reception in 1974 at Wellesley College in Massachusetts, McCarrick groped him as they walked around campus before taking him into a small closet-like room and fondling him.

(Reporting by Nate Raymond in Boston; Editing by Alistair Bell)
HONG KONG (Reuters) -Four people charged in connection with the killing of 28-year-old model Abby Choi appeared in court on Monday morning, after police found parts of her body in a village house on the outskirts of the financial city.

Hong Kong police said on Sunday they had charged three men, aged 28-65, with murder, and a 63-year old woman with one count of obstructing the case.

Those charged with Choi's killing included her ex-husband, Alex Kwong, Kwong's brother Anthony and their father Kwong Kau, police said. All four were denied bail, the court ruled.

The court adjourned a hearing on the case to May 8.

The killing of local influencer Choi, who recently appeared on the digital cover of L'Officiel Monaco fashion magazine, has gripped daily tabloids after she disappeared last Tuesday.

Police discovered parts of her body in the three-storey house in rural Tai Po district last week. They also found a meat slicer and an electric saw at the scene, according to a statement.

(Reporting by Jessie Pang and Joyce Zhou; writing by Farah Master; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and Himani Sarkar)
The torture chamber in Kherson

According to the SBU, these collaborators operated tortures chambers in the city during its occupation. They were exposed during counter-intelligence operations in the liberated city.

Read also: Russia shells Kherson Oblast almost 80 times in the past day, killing two, injuring seven

Among those detained is the ex-deputy head of a local correctional facility. According to the investigation, the man voluntarily went on to cooperate with the aggressor and agreed to join the management team of the Department of the Penitentiary Service in Kherson Oblast created by the occupation authorities.

While in his position, he organized the illegal detention of kidnapped Ukrainians in Russian prison cells, the SBU stated.

Victims were subjected to psychological pressure, torture, and death threats. In this way, the invaders tried to fulfill the Kremlins order to suppress the resistance movement in the region.

Read also: Russians strike public transport stop in Kherson, killing six and injuring 12

SBU

Another collaborator turned out to be the head of the department of communal maintenance and economic supplies of a former Russian prison . He was responsible for the food supply of the administration of the occupation authority.

SBU

SBU

Read also: Invaders launched 65 attacks on Kherson Oblast in the past 24 hours, killing two and injuring nine

A third collaborator had previously worked in Khersons pre-trial detention center, but after Feb. 24, 2022, he accepted the Russians offer to join the prison security department. There, together with another traitor, he participated in punitive raids against local residents who resisted the invaders, law enforcement officers said.

All detainees have been informed of the suspicion under two articles of the Criminal Code  Part 2 of Art. 111 and Part 7 of Art. 1111.

Read also: Russian forces launch big artillery attack on Kherson, killing, wounding civilians

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Rupert Murdoch, the billionaire conservative media mogul who owns Fox News Channel, acknowledged that top hosts at his network endorsed former President Trumps false claims of a fraudulent election in 2020, court documents filed on Monday show.

Lawyers for Dominion Voting Systems, which is suing Murdoch and Fox Corp. for defamation and seeking $1.6 billion in damages, pressed Murdoch directly as they deposed him about whether some of the networks widely watched opinion hosts endorsed Trumps unproved claims.

In fact, you are now aware that Fox endorsed at times this false notion of a stolen election? one of Dominions lawyers asked Murdoch during his deposition, the court filing shows.

Not Fox, No. Not Fox. But maybe Lou Dobbs, maybe Maria, as commentators, Murdoch replied.

Some of our commentators were endorsing it, the media tycoon added, when pressed again if the hosts endorsed Trumps claims of a fraudulent election. Yes. They endorsed.

The filing made Monday by Dominion is the latest chapter in a blockbuster lawsuit, in which the voting systems company argues that top brass at Fox, including its top hosts and executives, defamed Dominion by airing false claims peddled by Trump and his associates in the weeks following the 2020 election.

Fox has so far unsuccessfully moved to have the case dismissed on First Amendment grounds, and in a filing of its own on Monday argued it was simply airing newsworthy comments made by the president and his top associates. By Dominions standard for defamation, Foxs lawyers argued in their filing, the company could sue virtually every media company in the country for reporting on Trumps claims.

Dominions lawsuit has always been more about what will generate headlines than what can withstand legal and factual scrutiny, as illustrated by them now being forced to slash their fanciful damages demand by more than half a billion dollars after their own expert debunked its implausible claims, the network said in a statement on Monday evening.

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Their summary judgment motion took an extreme, unsupported view of defamation law that would prevent journalists from basic reporting and their efforts to publicly smear FOX for covering and commenting on allegations by a sitting President of the United States should be recognized for what it is: a blatant violation of the First Amendment, the statement continued.

Last week, Dominion made a separate court filing containing pages of text messages, emails and testimony that outlined how top Fox executives and hosts cast doubt on Trumps claims, and worrying about how fact-checking his statements on the air might be received by the conservative media outlets audience.

Among them were top host Tucker Carlson, who Dominion alleged confronted pro-Trump lawyer Sidney Powell, saying, You keep telling our viewers that millions of votes were changed by the software. I hope you will prove that very soon. Youve convinced them that Trump will win. If you dont have conclusive evidence of fraud at that scale, its a cruel and reckless thing to keep saying.

Dominions filing also includes excerpts from its deposition of former Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan, who sits on the board of Fox Corp. and was advising the Murdochs in the post-election period.

Ryan told Dominions lawyers that he knew that these conspiracy theories were baseless and that Fox should labor to dispel conspiracy theories if and when they pop up, according to the filing.

Ryan said he believed there ought to be a listing of all the allegations and then all the evidence or the validation or invalidation of those [election fraud] allegations just for the viewers sake, and wrote to the Murdoch after the election saying that Fox News should not be spreading conspiracy theories.

On Jan. 5, 2021, a day before the deadly attack on the Capitol by Trump supporters, Dominion alleges Murdoch wrote to Fox News Media CEO Suzanne Scott, saying, Its been suggested our prime time three should independently or together say something like the election is over and Joe Biden won, and that such a move would go a long way to stop the Trump myth that the election stolen.

A jury trial in the case is expected to begin in April.

Updated at 6:23 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Law enforcement officers have found fragments of an Iranian-made Shahed attack drone on the territory of one of the districts of Kyiv Oblast.

Source: press service of the Ukraines National Police citing Andrii Niebytov, Kyiv Oblast Police Chief

Quote: "The Air Defence Forces shot down enemy drones on 27 February, during the night attack of the occupiers. Fragments of enemy drones were found in a field.

There were no casualties or damage to infrastructure facilities. Police officers and bomb disposal experts of Kyiv Oblast were working at the scene of the incident."

Details: It was reported that the law enforcement officers inspected the scene and recorded the results of the Russian attack.

Citizens are urged not to ignore air-raid sirens and, in case of a siren, immediately go to a shelter.

Background: Air-raid warnings were issued in the city of Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast, as well as in a number of other oblasts, on the late evening of Sunday, 26 February. Later, it became known that Russia attacked Ukraine with Shakhed drones from Bryansk Oblast, Russia.

According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the Defence Forces of Ukraine shot down 11 Shahed Iranian-made kamikaze drones out of 14 launched on the night of 26 February. Nine drones were shot down in the airspace around Kyiv, reported Serhii Popko, Head of Kyiv City Military Administration.

Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for the Air Force of Ukraine, explained why the occupiers are launching Shahed drones again.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!












Republican Andy Ogles is shown in this Aug. 4, 2022, file photograph after being declared the winner in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District party primary in Franklin, Tennessee. Mark Humphrey/AP

Freshman Rep. Andy Ogles claimed he had a degree in "policy and economics" while campaiging.

On Sunday, he said after reviewing his transcript that he graduated with "Liberal Studies" degree.

Ogles' resume is filled with embellishments, as are many other GOP newcomers to Congress.

GOP Rep. Andy Ogles admitted on Sunday that he never actually received a degree in "International Relations" from Middle Tennessee State University, but actually a degree in "Liberal Studies."

Ogles, a freshman representative from Tennessee, originally claimed on the campaign trail that he had a degree in international policy and economics, according to Nashville's NewsChannel5. He later doubled down on the claim, adding it to his biography on his Congressional website before removing it from the website on Monday.

But while it's true Ogles studied at Middle Tennessee State University, he did not major in international policy nor economics. Instead, he majored in "Liberal Studies," a general education degree.

Ogles revealed the misstep in a statement to The Tennessee Star on Sunday, a day before NewsChannel5 published his complete college transcript.

"It was my understanding I had completed my course of study in Political Science and International Relations," Ogles said in a statement. "Last week, I requested an official copy of my transcript and learned that I was actually awarded a broader degree in Liberal Studies with minors in Political Science and English."

A pattern of embellishment

In addition to mischaracterizing his major in college, Ogles has recently repeatedly referenced his time combating human trafficking and fighting international sex crimes, claims that are dubious.

Ogles worked at a small Nashville-based nonprofit, Abolition International, as the COO where he said he oversaw "operations and investments in 12 countries to fight human trafficking."

But in reality, he was brought in to help with marketing, a former manager of the nonprofit told Insider.

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Additionally, in many of his interviews, Ogles has cast himself as an "economist," specifically citing his time working under Arthur Laffer, the founder of the right-wing Laffer Center for Supply-Side Economics.

An Insider interview with Laffer, however, revealed that Ogles' role working with Laffer primarily didn't involve economics  instead, Laffer claimed Ogles mainly worked in fundraising, though he didn't question Ogles' claim of being an economist.

"An economist is a person who works in economics," Laffer told Insider. "I don't think a PhD is required to be called an economist."

Ogles isn't the only freshman member of Congress recently accused of embellishing his biography on the campaign trail. Rep. George Santos 0f New York lied about his religion, college education, and employment history but has vowed to stay in office.

Additionally, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida claimed on the campaign trail that she was Jewish.

"I was raised as a Messianic Jew by my father," Luna said.

But according to three of her relatives who spoke with the Washington Post, her father was actually Catholic, nor was there any indication he practiced any form of Judaism. Her relatives also revealed that her paternal grandfather served in the armed forces of Nazi Germany in the 1940s.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Public transit is a lifeline for low-income Californians, essential for increased housing density and the key to realizing the states goal of drastically reduced carbon emissions.

But the states major public transit agencies are facing a myriad of issues  from slumped ridership to proposed state funding cuts to a looming fiscal cliff. Theyre looking to California lawmakers for a solution.

Transit systems and their advocates argue that Gov. Gavin Newsoms proposed budget would steer the state in the wrong direction and jeopardize efforts to convince more Californians to leave their cars at home and hop on a bus or train. Theyre trying to convince legislators to double down on their investments and allocate new money to help maintain current service levels.

Inaction is not an option, said Laura Talkoff, transportation policy director at the San Francisco Bay Area Planning and Urban Research Association, SPUR. Public transit is simply too important to the states climate, equity, housing and health goals.

The State Senate and Assembly transportation committees will hold a joint hearing Monday afternoon to discuss the financial state of Californias public transit systems, potential avenues to bring back riders and possible ways to address what some are calling an impending fiscal cliff.

California public transit ridership slumps

Transit ridership plummeted three years ago at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, as millions of Californians were instructed to stay at home. Although it has started to pick back up, the shift toward more at-home work has stopped most agencies from reaching their pre-pandemic levels. In turn, transit systems are collecting less money at the fare box.

The unprecedented flow of federal relief funding that helped agencies maintain operations throughout the pandemic is running out. Systems that have historically relied more heavily on fare box revenue  those in the Bay Area and Southern California  are forecasting the most dire financial situations.

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The Bay Areas Metropolitan Transportation Commission earlier this month reported that the regions operators faced a total revenue shortfall of up to $3.3 billion over the next five years. The Bay Area Rapid Transit system, which previously received more than half of its revenue from riders, is considering running trains less frequently and reducing its hours of operation in order to balance its future budgets.

Sacramento Regional Transit District, which operates bus routes, light rail and ADA paratransit across the county, isnt as bad off. Ridership across the SacRT is averaging approximately 70% of pre-pandemic totals but fares make up a much smaller portion of its revenue sources.

On top of ridership and revenue issues, Newsom last month proposed addressing the states projected $22.5 billion deficit, in part, by cutting $2 billion for transit capital construction projects. Asked why he was trimming back those funds, Newsom said, because of the magnitude of the investments still committed to that budget line.

Senator Scott Wiener, D- San Francisco, said the funding cuts on top of the operational challenges agencies face were too much.

This really is a slow-moving train wreck, and Im concerned that we dont have enough of a sense of urgency to prevent it from happening, said Wiener, one of the industrys top advocates in the legislature.

Transit funding across California

Newsoms budget proposal received almost immediate backlash from transit advocates. They argued that a loss of capital funding would slow the expansion of their systems, limiting the chance to draw more riders and secure the local funding needed to match federal grants. They pleaded for lawmakers to keep the money for new infrastructure intact.

Since then, a coalition of advocates, organized by the California Transit Association, has added a secondary request  to set aside additional money over multiple years to address short-term operational needs.

Californias more than 200 public transit agencies receive funding from multiple sources, including state and federal government, county or regional sales taxes and passenger fares. Historically, federal and state governments have provided funding assistance for transit construction projects but little for operating the trains and buses once theyre carrying passengers.

Brian Taylor, director of UCLAs Institute of Transportation Studies, said the states role in supporting public transit remains an unsettled question. But one possible answer to the funding woes, according to Taylor, could be to reform the law that guides the allocation of state transit funding.

Its structured in a way that limits the flexibility and the movement, said Taylor, pointing to a provision that ties funding eligibility to fare box revenue.

Assembly Transportation Committee Chairwoman Laura Friedman, D- Glendale, said she believes the state should focus on helping to address near-term transit operational needs rather than worrying about funding future capital projects. Friedman has authored a handful of transportation bills this legislative cycle, including one that would restrict funding for freeway expansion. Another would form a task force to look at new ways of growing transit ridership and explore new funding sources.

We know that the agencies facing operational struggles and that is compounded when they dont have money for services and people leave the system, she said. Our main focus needs to be getting riders onto public transit.

Public transit is key to Californias climate, housing goals

Newsom and state Democratic leaders have championed infill or transient-oriented development as one of the top tools for addressing both the states housing and climate goals. The thinking goes: more dense development built around public transit will make mass transit a more enticing mode of daily transportation and reduce suburban sprawl.

Transportation accounts for the largest share of greenhouse gas emissions in California, topping the industrial, electrical and residential sectors. Despite leading the nation in zero-emission vehicle standards and statewide climate policy reforms, Californias cars, trucks, trains, buses and airplanes continue to pollute the air at high levels.

Zak Accuardi, a senior transportation advocate at the Natural Resources Defense Council, blames that on the states continued investment in highway infrastructure and expansion while failing to properly prioritize public transportation and zero-emission vehicle infrastructure.

Public transit is the most effective tool that we have to provide people better alternatives for driving, Accuardi said. ... But it takes a lot of investment and again, very different prioritization to actually shift driving behaviors in a state as big as California.

The vast majority of Californians commute on a daily basis by driving alone in their own vehicle. But in order to reach the states climate goals, the California Air Resources Board aims to reduce car dependence  measured by the number of miles traveled by vehicles across the state  to 25% below 2019 levels by 2030.

The boards 2022 scoping plan states that such reductions will play an indispensable role in reducing overall transportation energy demand and achieving the states climate, air quality, and equity goals.
It appears that Future is venturing into the medical marijuana industry.







The post Future Files Trademarks Signaling A Medical Marijuana And Cannabis Company appeared first on AfroTech.

The Atlanta rappers legal team has reportedly filed six trademarks for the name EVOL BY FUTURE, according to trademark attorney Clarissa Harvey.

On 2/17/23- his legal team filed six 1(b) intent-to-use trademark applications in several classes for EVOL BY FUTURE to be used in connection w/ smoking lounge services, vape pens, medicated oil, etc, Harvey wrote in a tweet.

Rapper Future may be launching a NEW medical marijuana & cannabis brand  On 2/17/23-his legal team filed six 1(b) intent-to-use trademark applications in several classes for "EVOL BY FUTURE" to be used in connection w/ smoking lounge services, vape pens, medicated oils, etc. pic.twitter.com/brvH5NcNgW  Clarissa | Trademark Attorney (@TheLawOfficeCH) February 22, 2023

Based on the trademark filings, EVOL BY FUTURE is set to provide a website that features health information in the medical marijuana and cannabis field. Additionally, there will be medicated oral sprays for pain relief; medicated creams and lotions, namely, medicated pain relief creams and lotions; electronic oral vaporizer pens for smoking purposes, sold empty; electronic cigarettes, cigarettes, cigars, tobacco, herbs for smoking; and more.

Along with the medical marijuana and cannabis products, the filings also show that there will be apparel including headwear and shirts.

EVOL BY FUTURE isnt Futures first instance of filing trademarks.

As previously reported by AfroTech, his team filed an official trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office in 2020 for Sinsational by Future. The intent-to-use application was filed as part of his plan to enter into the fragrance industry with categories of perfumes, fragrances, and perfumery. Then, on April 19, 2022, the application was updated with a Notice of Allowance.

Story continues

Sinsational is pending, but there was a recent promotional trailer for it on Instagram.

However, in the music world, Future is continuing to make moves.

As AfroTech told you, his publishing catalog reportedly sold for around eight figures.

I put everything into my music, and I wanted to make sure these were in good hands as I thought about the next chapter of these songs, Future said in a press release. Im proud to partner up with Rene and the team at Influence Media and send a signal that this music has timeless value. My music is my art, and these songs represent some of the most precious artwork of my career.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for General Mills is US$106 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of US$80.64 suggests General Mills is potentially 24% undervalued

The US$81.20 analyst price target for GIS is 24% less than our estimate of fair value

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS) by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. Anyone interested in learning a bit more about intrinsic value should have a read of the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for General Mills

Crunching The Numbers

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 Levered FCF ($, Millions) US$2.34b US$2.66b US$2.77b US$3.06b US$3.20b US$3.31b US$3.41b US$3.50b US$3.59b US$3.68b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x6 Analyst x6 Analyst x4 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 3.46% Est @ 3.05% Est @ 2.75% Est @ 2.55% Est @ 2.40% Present Value ($, Millions) Discounted @ 6.8% US$2.2k US$2.3k US$2.3k US$2.3k US$2.3k US$2.2k US$2.1k US$2.1k US$2.0k US$1.9k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = US$22b

Story continues

The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.1%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 6.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2032  (1 + g)  (r  g) = US$3.7b (1 + 2.1%)  (6.8% 2.1%) = US$79b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= US$79b ( 1 + 6.8%)10= US$41b

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is US$63b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of US$80.6, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 24% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

Important Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. If you don't agree with these result, have a go at the calculation yourself and play with the assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at General Mills as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business.

SWOT Analysis for General Mills

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Food market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow for the next 3 years.

Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Threat

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the American market.

Looking Ahead:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. It's not possible to obtain a foolproof valuation with a DCF model. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For instance, if the terminal value growth rate is adjusted slightly, it can dramatically alter the overall result. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For General Mills, there are three relevant elements you should assess:

Risks: We feel that you should assess the 2 warning signs for General Mills we've flagged before making an investment in the company. Future Earnings: How does GIS's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every American stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

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.

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A Georgia elementary school principal has been arrested on multiple child cruelty charges, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

The principal of Indian Creek Elementary in Coffee County, 51-year-old Anastagia Carter, was arrested and charged with two counts of 1st-degree cruelty to a child, two counts of 3rd-degree cruelty to a child, two counts of false imprisonment and two counts of simple battery.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said the charges are from an incident with a student at the school.

The exact details of the incident remain unclear.

TRENDING STORIES:

Coffee County School District posted a statement on its Facebook page regarding Carters arrest.

The Coffee County School System has been notified of allegations concerning the principal at Indian Creek Elementary School. When this matter first came to the attention of the school system, a report was immediately made to the Department of Family and Children Services and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. The principal was immediately placed and remains on administrative leave. The GBI is leading the investigation, and all questions and concerns should be directed to the Region 4 Investigative Office of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation in Douglas.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
A Georgia probation officer is accused of sexually assaulting a probationer.

On Friday, Feb. 24, Department of Community Supervision officer Bobby Evans, 57, was arrested and charged with two counts of sexual assault of a probationer or parolee and one count of violation of oath of office by a public officer.

Evans surrendered to Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) agents at the McDuffie County Jail.

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The GBI began the investigation in July after receiving a request concerning allegations made against Evans by one of his probationers.

Investigators found that Evans had sex with the probationer at least two times in McDuffie County.

Their investigation is ongoing and will be given to the Toombs Judicial Circuit District Attorneys Office for prosecution once it is complete.

TRENDING STORIES:

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IN OTHER NEWS:
The Biden administrations ambitious program to forgive billions of dollars in federally supported student loan debt is set to face multiple challengers before the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday, when the court is scheduled to hear arguments in two cases that dispute the plan's legality.

The plan is expected to impact at least 26 million student loan borrowers who either applied for, or qualified for relief before legal challenges put its roll out on hold.

The U.S. Department of Education, which adopted the plan, estimates that as of December 2022, approximately 43 million borrowers held federally backed student loan debt totaling more than $1.6 trillion. However, forgiveness, as envisioned, is available only to federal loan borrowers with annual incomes under $125,000 (or $250,000 per household). Those borrowers are eligible for up to $10,000 in forgiveness, and borrowers who also received Pell Grants can receive up to $20,000 in relief.

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimated in September that the program, if implemented as planned, would cost U.S. taxpayers $400 billion in present value. Critics say that figure underestimates the scope of the cost to U.S. taxpayers.

Here are the cases the Supreme Court will consider:

Biden v. Nebraska, is brought by the administration against six republican state attorneys general  Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, and South Carolina  who say the forgiveness plan requires, yet never received, Congress' authorization. The AGs also say that with fewer loans on their books future state tax revenues will suffer. Missouri specifically argues that its MOHELA (Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority), which is the nation's largest loan servicer, will collect less interest than planned on it's furnished loans.

Another case: Department of Education v. Brown, is filed by two student loan debtors, one who doesn't qualify for relief under the plan, and another who qualifies for partial forgiveness. They too argue that the Education Department needs Congressional approval to adopt its planand that they were improperly denied the opportunity to comment on its provisions. Their case is backed by conservative advocacy group, Job Creators Network Foundation.

Story continues

Students listen as U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks about student debt relief at Delaware State University in Dover, Delaware, U.S., October 21, 2022. REUTERS/Leah Millis

There are multiple questions before the high court. One is whether the six states and the students have standing to maintain their challenges in court. Standing is a legal doctrine that prevents litigants from going forward with a federal lawsuit, unless they can show the disputed action will cause them particular harm  for example, that they would suffer economic shortfalls if not permitted to have their grievance heard.

In addition the justices will weigh whether the forgiveness plan is authorized by a group of laws that together delegate various powers to the Department of Education to modify federal student financial assistance programs. They'll also consider whether in adopting the plan the administration followed proper notice and comment procedures.

As justification for its authority to forgive debt, the administration cites three pieces of legislation: Title IV of the 1965 Higher Education Act, which authorizes the Education Secretary to administer the department's portfolio of student loans; the 2003 HEROES Act (Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act), which expanded the Education Secretary's student loan administration powers; and the 2020 CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act), which declared the Covid-19 pandemic a "national emergency" and provided economic assistance to American workers, families, and businesses.

Designed as a temporary law and later made permanent in 2007, the HEROES Act was originally crafted to relieve student loan debt for military members who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Challengers say the Act doesn't extend to offer the widespread pandemic relief offered under the administration's forgiveness plan.

However, the text of the law states that when the president declares a national emergency, the Education Secretary "is authorized to waive or modify any provision for statutes concerning federal student loans, for both military personnel, as well as for others impacted by the emergency.

Both the Trump and Biden administrations tapped the HEREOS Act during the Covid-19 pandemic to pause student loan repayment obligations and suspended interest accrual on all federally held student loans  decisions expected to cost the government more than $100 billion.

U.S. President Joe Biden speaks about administration plans to forgive federal student loan debt during remarks in the Roosevelt Room at the White House in Washington, U.S., August 24, 2022. REUTERS/Leah Millis

In its application to the Supreme Court to stay the Northern District of Texas court's ruling in the Brown case, the Justice Department argued, "[T]he entire purpose of the HEROES Act is to authorize the Secretary to grant student-loan-related relief to at-risk borrowers because of a national emergency  precisely what the Secretary did here."

Dozens of organizations and individuals, including civil rights groups, labor unions, legal experts, and state governments, filed amicus briefs or friend of the court documents in support of the Biden administration's plan.

Meanwhile, more than 170 republican lawmakers signed their names in support of amicus briefs that oppose the debt relief.

In agreeing to take up the case, the court kept in place an injunction that prevents the White House from granting the promised debt relief.

The moratorium on required student loan repayments, put in place by the Trump administration and carried forward by the Biden administration, is slated to sunset either 60 days after the Supreme Court issues its decisions, or 60 days after June 30.

The Supreme Court's decisions in the cases are expected before the end of June.

Alexis Keenan is a legal reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow Alexis on Twitter @alexiskweed.

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Photo: Kevin Lamarque (Reuters)

That the US is a deadly country for new mothers, particularly Black mothers, has become a well-known fact. In the past few years, the issue has been addressed by a series of policy proposals, campaign statements, and even a dedicated Black Maternal Health Week.



But these efforts are yet to reduce the unfathomable rates of maternal mortality in the country, according to a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO).

Read more

Giving birth in the US (where, in 2020, 21 women died of pregnancy-related causes per every 100,000 live births) is nearly twice as deadly as it is, on average, in Europe (13 deaths per 100,000 live births). It is almost seven times more dangerous than it is in some of the best-performing countries, such as Spain (3.4 per 100,000 births).

The situation is even more dire for Black mothers, whose risk of pregnancy-related death (55 per 100,000 births, according to the US Government Accountability Office) is more than four times higher than in Europe overall, and 16 times higher than in Spain.

Graphic: Chart via WHO/MMR

A worsening problem

The WHO report released last week, which tracked worldwide maternal mortality trends between 2000 and 2020, doesnt just show the US as an outlier among rich countriesit shows that the trend of maternal mortality in the US continues to move opposite to the rest of the world. Even in regions such as Africa or Southeast Asia, where maternal mortality numbers remain, on average, much higher than in the US, the rates have been steadily declining.

On the contrary, they have continued to increase in the US.

Graphic: Chart via WHO/MMR

In Africa, maternal mortality has decreased from nearly 800 every 100,000 births in 2000 to 531 in 2020a reduction of more than 30%. In Southeast Asia, the decline has been even more drastic, from almost 400 deaths per 100,000 births in 2020 to just over 100a reduction of 70%.

Story continues

In the US, meanwhile, the trend has gone the opposite direction, with the mortality rate increasing relentlessly since 2000. During that span, only in 2010 was maternal mortality was lower than the year prior. The rate started increasing again steadily in 2011.

Graphic: Chart via WHO/MMR

More recently, things have gotten even worse: The mortality rate climbed from 12 per 100,000 in 2020 to 21 in 2022, an increase of 75% percent.

Graphic: Chart via WHO/MMR

These are conservative estimates, developed by the WHO with other international organizations. Official US data for 2020 puts maternal mortality rates at an even higher value: 23.8 per 100,000 births.

In 2021, with covid as a contributing factor, the official U.S. rate went up to over 32 per 100,000 births. In the same period, maternal mortality for Black women rose to nearly 69 per 100,000 births, barely clearing the target of 70 per 100,000 births that the United Nations has set for worldwhich, of course, includes many countries far poorer than the U.S.

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A Pixel 7 phone showing the Google startup page.



Gizmodos own attempts to view the Alien clip on a Pixel 7 forced the phone to immediately restart.

Theres a odd bug pervading the ducts of Google Pixel devices, and its somehow related to sci-fis most famous insectoid alien horror.



For some strange reason, this one YouTube clip of Ridley Scotts famous sci-fi/horror masterpiece Alien is crashing the latest Google Pixel phone. Reddit users on the r/GooglePixel subreddit were the first to notice the strange phenomenon, as phones only crash when watching this one specific video, and only when using the official YouTube app.

Read more

According to users, the crash happens on both the Google Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. Other users noted that it also happened on a Pixel 6, 6 Pro and 6a. Its unclear if earlier Pixels suffer the same fate.

The video did not crash my Pixel 3, though in other tests from Gizmodo staffers, we found that an 8GB Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 6 Pro all immediately jumped to a black screen and then rebooted.

Some users described a quick reboot, while others claimed it caused other issues leading to a loss in cellular connection, requiring another restart. In our own tests, we found that the restarted phones successfully relaunched without any apparent issues.

For those who cant see the clip because of the bug, the clip involves the Alien scene where Dallas crawls through the ductways of the Nostromo with nothing but a flashlight and flamethrower to light the way. All the while, the remnants of the ship crew track his and, to the crews horror, the aliens movements. The YouTube videos top comments now refer to users saying whether or not the Aliens scene knocks out their phones. The top comment reads: Pixel phone users, get out of here!

The news was first noticed by tech journalist Mishaal Rahman, and the problem has been ongoing through the weekend into Monday. Rahman noted it could be an issue if users are on the Android 13 QPR2 beta. Some Pixel 7 users did claim they didnt have any issues, and it remains unclear what is causing the issue.

Story continues

Gizmodo reached out to Google for comment and to know if theres any hint as to whats causing the issue, but we did not immediately hear back.

Earlier versions of Pixel phones have experienced weird crashes in the past. Over five years ago, users reported certain wallpapers using the Google Wallpapers app put Pixel 2 devices into a perpetual crash loop. The company took its sweet time coming up with a response to the issue, perhaps because its such a niche issue.

Of course, my own theory is that all these phones are now inhabited by a digitized version of the eponymous alien. Just dont be too surprised if you wake up and find your phone has been drooling acidic saliva, or if a little digital chestburster pops out while youre texting coworkers on your Sla aaaa aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack.



[End Transmission]

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NTSBGov/Handout via Reuters

The firstand perhaps most revealingreactions on Capitol Hill to the toxic train derailment in Ohio played out in passive-aggressive Twitter exchanges between powerful officials.

On Feb. 13, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) tweeted that congressional inquiry and direct action from Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg were needed to address this tragedy.

Fully agree, replied Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), Omars ideological opposite.

Buttigieg then chimed in. Glad to see newfound bipartisan agreement here, he tweeted at Cruz. We could start by discussing immediate steps Congress could take to address rail safety & reduce constraints on USDOT in this area. Give us a call, we can do some good work.

As the disaster in East Palestine quickly becomes fodder for political agendas in Washington, the more quietly considered question is whether policymakers will be capable of doing any good work to prevent similar debacles in the future.

Norfolk Southern Train Derails in North Carolina

Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers have signaled theyre game to work together on a legislative response, leading some to believe theres a moment for bipartisan compromise in regulating a key industry that rarely receives broad scrutiny.

But it wont be easy. The rest of the exchange between Cruz and Omar shows why.

With the waving emoji, Omar replied to Cruz: So do you support reinstating the rail safety rules that Trump repealedwhile Norfolk Southern executives made millions and spent billions on stock buybacksand expanding the safety rules to cover trains that carry these chemicals?

Cruz did not reply to Omar. But he did so indirectly on Thursday, with a statement in response to the first federal report on the derailment.

More than anything, the Texas Republican pointed the finger at Democratsespecially Buttigiegfor their response, arguing it was all designed to blame the incident on President Trump. And he emphasized that he would work on solutions to address the disasters root causes, not simply advance narrow political interests.

Story continues

Both parties seem eager to tee off on Norfolk Southern, the rail giant whose cars derailed on Feb. 3 in northeast Ohio, releasing toxic chemicals into the air, water and soil.

But for some Republicans, there is simply too much political upside in turning the Ohio train disaster into a weapon to bludgeon prominent Democrats like Buttigieg, a likely future presidential candidate. Interest in engaging on the issue, for many, may evaporate when the cameras move on.

Democrats, meanwhile, havent allowed Republicans to press that case without repeatedly pointing out the deregulation of the freight rail industry over the yearsparticularly during the Trump administration, which repealed Obama-era rules requiring the industry to put better-quality brakes on trains carrying explosive chemicals.

The exact reasons behind the derailment are not yet known. The National Transit Safety Board issued an initial report on Friday saying the crash was entirely preventable, but it will take them weeks or months to investigate fully.

Rail Company Already Pissed Off Environmentalists Before Ohio Train Crash

Democratic officials and lawmakers clearly view this as a moment to push for broader rail safety measures, even if they are not ultimately fully responsive to what caused the crash. Last week, Buttigieg called on Congress to take up five proposals to boost safety. They include allowing the DOT to increase fines on rail companies for violating safety rules, improving braking systems, and speeding up the implementation of safer rail cars for carrying dangerous chemicals.

Despite the GOP attacks, Buttigiegs department is sounding optimistic about potential cooperation in Congresseven as it not-so-subtly drives home the GOPs recent history on the issue.

The Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine has sparked a bipartisan conversation about rail safety even among Members of Congress who previously worked with the rail industry to stymie commonsense regulations, said Kerry Arndt, a DOT spokesperson.

Since Buttigieg laid out his rail safety proposals, Arndt said, our Department has heard from numerous lawmakers on both sides of the aisle who are interested in working together to get something done. This is a welcome first step in what must be a long-term commitment to safety and accountability.

On Capitol Hill, the relevant committees are circumspect as they wait for more information. The important thing is to learn exactly what happened, what factors played a role in the accident, and what factors did not, said a GOP aide to the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The Committee is staying engaged on this issue, but no one should jump to any conclusions or act without all the facts.

In a divided Congress, however, the risk for reform is that the issue overheats long before the facts are known, scuttling their ability to finally address a serious problem.

Right now, theres a blame game going on, with Democrats saying it was the fault of the railroad and the Trump administration; and the GOP is saying it was the railroad and the Biden administrations fault, said Kevin Kosar, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. Which side is winning the messaging war is unclear.

Many Democrats are upset that this derailment, which is causing serious stress on the affected area, has escalated into a messaging war.

Some, like Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA), readily admit that Buttigieg could have spoken out quicker on the crisis and traveled sooner to East Palestine. But he expressed the frustration of many Democrats that the GOP political apparatus has revved up to attack Buttigiegwhile Republican lawmakers dismiss accountability for the Trump administrations actions as political posturing.

Feds Order Norfolk Southern to Pay Up for Toxic Train Mess

We have to break out of the partisan silliness and tackle this problem honestly, said Huffman, who sits on the House Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee that focuses on railway safety.

Democrats are ready to do that without too much shaming of Republicans, Huffman said. The question is whether our GOP colleagues can handle the task of fixing a problem they created during the Trump years.

The intervention of Trump himself into the East Palestine crisis doesnt exactly make that task easy. The former president and 2024 candidate visited the small Ohio town last week, saying Biden and his administration had shown indifference and betrayal to the community in the wake of the train disaster.

Ironically, Trumps most high-profile companion in East Palestine that day might be key in any bipartisan rail safety efforts. Newly elected Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) has criticized the administration, but hes also made clear to some Democrats that hes serious about engaging on policy.

For instance, in a joint letter to Buttigieg on Feb. 15, Vance and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) posed questions that Democratic lawmakers would like to see answered, while expressing concern about the fact that current rules allow just two fully trained workers to manage a 150-car train.

Lawmakers focused their inquiries on precision-scheduled railroading, a cost-cutting tactic used by the industry that can cause overheating in machinery. In fact, the early NTSB report released last week pointed to overheating as a cause of the disaster. Buttigieg has been critical of the tactic in criticizing Norfolk Southern.

Both Rubio and Vances offices did not respond to requests for comment about the prospects for bipartisan action and where, if at all, they agreed with Buttigieg on possible policy steps forward.

As lawmakers return from a two-week recess on Monday, though, whats likely to command the most attention is GOP efforts to attack the administration.

On Friday, the House Oversight Committee sent a blistering letter to Buttigieg, asking him for information about the allegedly slow pace of the NTSBs investigation. There was, however, one small problem: NTSB is independent and not part of the Department of Transportation.

Still, of course, Buttigieg tweeted, we will fully review this and respond appropriately.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Many of the Republican Party's marquee players  including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence and the top GOP leaders in Congress  will skip this week's Conservative Political Action Conference in Maryland, dealing a significant blow to the annual gathering's stature.

The abandonment of CPAC, which runs from Wednesday through Saturday, comes as its chairman, Matt Schlapp, defends himself against a lawsuit alleging that he fondled a male aide to then-Senate candidate Herschel Walker in Georgia in October, without the aide's consent.

In a filing in a Virginia court this month, Schlapp's lawyers wrote that he denies having committed sexual battery.

Despite the mass exodus, the party's most dominant figure  former President Donald Trump  plans to speak at the conference late Saturday afternoon, according to his spokesman, Steven Cheung.

None of the politicians declining to attend have cited the allegations as the reason for their absence, but several Republicans who spoke on the condition of anonymity said it is a factor in the broader movement away from the conference.

A source familiar with Pence's decision did not say it was based on the lawsuit against Schlapp but added, "Most principals are increasing their distance because of that, because of those allegations." Another source whose clients had previously attended the conference said they have specifically cited the Schlapp allegation as a reason they wanted to distance themselves this year.

There is a sense among some Republicans that the conference was becoming more of a chore in recent years, said a veteran GOP operative who is not attending this year and asked to remain anonymous to speak candidly.

Someone said to me, We all wanted an excuse not to go, and Schlapp gave it to us, the operative said.

DeSantis, who has been in demand across the country as he appears to be gearing up for a potential 2024 presidential campaign launch, will be in Texas for GOP dinners in Houston and Dallas, as well as in California.

Story continues

He will not be at CPAC, the source with knowledge of the schedule said Monday.

The list of luminaries skipping CPAC is long and prestigious: Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin are among them.

A person familiar with the plans of McDaniel, who has spoken at CPAC before, declined to elaborate on the reason for her absence this year. In the past, the RNC has also been listed as a sponsor of CPAC; this year, it is not.

McConnell, notably, has not attended the event in recent years. The crowd booed him in 2021, when former President Donald Trump took a dig at him in his CPAC speech.

McCarthy will be out of town, an aide said.

The person familiar with Pence's decision said: "Theres been a distance between the two entities for a few years now. ... Principles and values no longer align.

The conference has long been a way for GOP politicians and movement leaders to reach a large conservative activist crowd  and all the media attention that comes with it.

In recent years, it has been the Trump show. Still, some had speculated that DeSantis could parachute in at the last moment, given a recent penchant to show he can operate on Trump turf. That will not be happening, however.

DeSantis did speak at CPAC last year, when it was in Florida. Pence has not attended since 2020.

Both Schlapp and his wife, Mercedes Schlapp, are named in the lawsuit, which includes allegations that they participated in smearing the man who accuses Matt Schlapp of sexual misconduct.

"As stated in court filings of February 9, 2023, the Schlapps deny the plaintiffs allegations," said Mark Corrallo, a spokesman for the Schlapps. "We will not comment on matters currently pending before the court in Virginia."

Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, who recently launched her presidential 2024 bid, still plans to attend, an aide confirmed. Other speakers on the agenda include Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake and Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York.

The conservative Club for Growth will hold its annual donor retreat in Florida this week at the same time. DeSantis, Pence, Haley and others are scheduled to speak at that event; Trump is not.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Ohio Republican Governor Mike DeWine was injured during a tour of East Palestine, where a train derailment led to the release of hazardous materials earlier this month.

Mr DeWine suffered a displaced distal fibula fracture above his ankle during the tour of the community last week amid calls for his resignation over his handling of the crisis.

The governors office told Fox 8 Cleveland that Mr DeWine will have to wear a walking boot for the next several weeks.

Mr DeWine told the Columbus Dispatch that his foot caught on something as he walked down the stairs of the First Church of Christ on Tuesday.

Im fine, he told the paper on Sunday. Im just not walking my dog as much.

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A judge on Monday sentenced a man to life in prison for three counts of DUI manslaughter and other traffic offenses in connection with the death of two children and their grandfather.

The victims' family members consoled each other after Circuit Judge Peter Brigham announced his decision following roughly two hours of testimony from those who spoke on behalf of the defendant, Stephen Douglas Lynn, and the victims: Nevaeh Nunez, 9; her sister, 7-year-old Katalaya Nunez; and their 71-year-old grandfather, Emilio Nunez.

Lynn, 52, of Ocala, was arrested by Florida Highway Patrol troopers on Nov. 7, 2019 after his pickup ran the stoplight at County Road 484 and County Road 467 (Southeast 36th Avenue) and T-boned the Nunezes' Suzuki Vitara.

DUI manslaughter conviction:Ocala woman sentenced to 11 years for DUI manslaughter

Verdict:Jury finds Missouri man guilty of DUI manslaughter; judge orders 130-month prison term

A year later:Family and friends remember mother and daughter a year after their deaths at crash site

The grandfather had picked up his grandchildren from Belleview-Santos Elementary School, and they were on their way home when the crash occurred.

Emilio Nunez and his granddaughters

At the scene, Lynn was given a field a sobriety test by troopers. A court order for a blood sample was signed by a judge. The test results showed Lynn was under the influence of methamphetamine and two other substances at the time of the crash, authorities said.

This file photo shows three crosses placed in memory of Emilio A. Nunez, 71, and his two grandchildren, 9-year-old Nevaeh Nunez and her sister, Katalaya Nunez, 7, who died in November 2019 when a pickup truck driven by Stephen Douglas Lynn plowed into them at County Road 484 and County Road 467.

The defendant entered a no contest plea in November and wanted a judge to decide his fate. The sentencing hearing was held Monday.

The judge heard from people representing Lynn. He also heard from people supporting the victims. The latter group wore pink and purple T-shirts in the victims' honor.

FHP troopers said Emilio Nunez was driving this vehicle, with his two granddaughters as passengers, when they were struck at an intersection.

Testimony supporting Lynn

Lynn's partner told the court that Lynn is a beautiful, gentle giant who's a workaholic and a good father. To the Nunez family, she said, "we ask for forgiveness." She asked the judge to sentence Lynn to probation.

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The man's 18-year-old son told the Nunez family that his "heart goes out to them." He praised his father for being there for him, and called him "a very good man." He too asked the judge for probation.

Lynn's mother said her son didn't mean to harm anyone. While she said he should not have been driving, she also noted that he's remorseful and devastated about what happened.

To the Nunez family, she said that although she's lost loved ones, none of it compares to their pain. She told the court that her son "already has a life sentence."

Sitting beside his Ocala lawyer, Bill Ramputi, Lynn told the Nunez family: "I'm so sorry for what happened." He said he wished he could change things, and feels their pain.

He said every day is a challenge for him, and he asked the victim's family if they could "find it in your heart to forgive."

Stephen Douglas Lynn, in jail uniform, sits beside his lawyer, Bill Ramputi.

When he was questioned by Assistant State Attorney Toby Hunt about the crash, Lynn said he doesn't remember much about it. He admits to driving the vehicle, but doesn't remember how fast he was driving.

"I don't remember anything," he said.

Testimony from the Nunez family

The girls' mother told the court about her daughters and how they interacted with people. She described one daughter as an artist. She said they're still finding some of her drawings. Her other daughter loved princesses and was a future biologist.

She said she doesn't believe Lynn is remorseful. She said her children had potential and she will mourn this loss for the rest of her life.

She called their deaths a traumatic experience. She asked the judge to give Lynn "the maximum sentence," and believes he's "a danger to the community."

She added that whatever sentence Lynn receives, it will never satisfy her. For her, the death of her children is a "nightmare." She said for three years she has been patiently awaiting this day and has attended every court appearance.

The children's father said the day when his father and children died was "the end of my life."

He said his children were smart and beautiful. His father was a hardworking man who came to the United States with a dream. He said Lynn should not get a second chance, because his family wasn't given a second chance.

He said at least Lynn's family can visit him. He must go to Forest Lawn cemetery to see his family.

The wife of the deceased man said her husband's death has affected her mentally and physically. She said she misses him and her granddaughters every day. The day they died was her birthday.

The lawyers' arguments

Defense attorney Ramputi asked the judge to consider sentencing his client to four years in prison followed by a lengthy probation term. He said he has known Lynn for 30 years and doesn't know him to be a man with evil intentions. He said Lynn has shown remorse.

Bill Ramputi

The lawyer said the crash was horrendous and Lynn showed bad judgment.

Prosecutor Hunt said Lynn should be "punished for his action" and deserves life behind bars. He said at the scene, Lynn only thought about himself and did not show any remorse for the victims.

He said Lynn's actions were selfish, and added that a passenger in his vehicle had offered to drive that day because Lynn did not appear well.

Assistant State Attorney Toby Hunt

Hunt said Lynn's vehicle was like a deadly missile.

Contact Austin L. Miller at 867-4118, austin.miller@starbanner.com or @almillerosb

Stephen Douglas Lynn

This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Ocala man sentenced to life in prison for DUI crash that killed three
Generally, when a single insider buys stock, it is usually not a big deal. However, when several insiders are buying, like in the case of Pact Group Holdings Ltd (ASX:PGH), it sends a favourable message to the company's shareholders.

While we would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing, we do think it is perfectly logical to keep tabs on what insiders are doing.

Check out our latest analysis for Pact Group Holdings

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Pact Group Holdings

The Non-Executive Chairman Raphael Geminder made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for AU$441k worth of shares at a price of AU$1.55 each. That means that an insider was happy to buy shares at above the current price of AU$1.18. It's very possible they regret the purchase, but it's more likely they are bullish about the company. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. It is generally more encouraging if they paid above the current price, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels.

Pact Group Holdings insiders may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. You can see the insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year depicted in the chart below. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction!

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).

Insider Ownership Of Pact Group Holdings

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. Based on our data, Pact Group Holdings insiders have about 1.5% of the stock, worth approximately AU$6.0m. However, it's possible that insiders might have an indirect interest through a more complex structure. We consider this fairly low insider ownership.

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What Might The Insider Transactions At Pact Group Holdings Tell Us?

There haven't been any insider transactions in the last three months -- that doesn't mean much. But insiders have shown more of an appetite for the stock, over the last year. While we have no worries about the insider transactions, we'd be more comfortable if they owned more Pact Group Holdings stock. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Pact Group Holdings. At Simply Wall St, we found 1 warning sign for Pact Group Holdings that deserve your attention before buying any shares.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies.

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.

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Sean Dennis is the new president and CEO of the Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce.

TECUMSEH  New Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Sean Dennis promises a vision of unity, partnership, problem-solving and opportunity for the business community of Lenawee County.

Misty Shulters

Sean was a standout candidate for several reasons, however, the most notable was his immense passion for making a difference in the community. Sean is passionate about serving the business owners in Lenawee County by building connections that lead to growth and opportunity for all who reside in our community, chamber board chair Misty Shulters said in an email. His vision for the chamber was unique among the candidates and when you couple that with his passion for making a difference, he certainly stood out!

I believe the chamber can be a premier hub for business growth in Lenawee. One of my primary goals is to partner with other organizations in the community to promote the economic and socioeconomic development of the community. We want to see businesses unite and thrive! There is a ton of opportunity for that. We also want to help businesses give back by creating strategic partnerships and opportunities for them to do so. We will all get out of the community what we put into it, Dennis said in an email.

The chamber began its search for a new leader in fall of last year just after its former leader, Matt Swartzlander, accepted the village manager position in Brooklyn.

More:Greater Lenawee Chamber executive director takes top job in Brooklyn

More:Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce hires new president, CEO

The chamber hired human resources consulting firm Insight HRM of Adrian to assist with the job posting, screening of candidates, interview coordination and streamlining the process for the selection committee. The full selection process consisted of a phone interview and a virtual panel interview, then finalists were invited to conduct a 10-minute presentation to the chamber board.

Insight HRM completed the first round of screening, conducting phone interviews with nearly a dozen applicants that met the posting qualifications. From there, the selection committee interviewed six candidates via video conferencing. Candidate backgrounds included private sector operations and nonprofit partner relationship management as well as local economic development and municipality oversight. Three candidates were invited to present to the chamber board.

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Mr. Dennis is a dynamic personality with some great ideas on services the Chamber could provide to its members. Tecumseh looks forward to working with him on projects and sharing his ideas with our local businesses, Tecumseh City Manager Dan Swallow said in an email. We welcome Mr. Dennis to the Lenawee community, and we are excited to help him integrate with our Tecumseh business community.

After graduating with a bachelors degree in music from Full Sail University of Winter Park, Florida, in 2016, Dennis took a management job with Logistical Data Services of Coatesville, Pennsylvania, a logistics company in the transportation/rail industry. Dennis spent six years with the organization, receiving three promotions during his tenure. Most recently, he was the companys general manager, overseeing its U.S. and Canadian operations.

The GLCC Board of Directors unanimously voted to hire Sean as our CEO and we fully anticipate that he will be successful, beyond a doubt. Sean has extensive business operations knowledge that will lead to a strong understanding of the challenges that Lenawee businesses face  such an important aspect when working to develop solutions and when advocacy opportunities present, Shulters said. In Seans first year in the CEO role, the GLCC Board of Directors will be looking for him to focus on membership retention and growth, expanding program offerings and building successful partnerships throughout Lenawee County.

Dennis also is tasked with healing the wounds of the city of Adrian, which its city administrator said suffered after the Adrian and Tecumseh chambers merged, the Adrian chamber office closed, and operations were consolidated in Tecumseh.

More:Tecumseh, Adrian chambers of commerce officially merge

More:Adrian City Commission votes not to resign from Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce

We look forward to getting to know Sean and hope that he can help reestablish the Chambers focus on the City of Adrians business community, which seemed to suffer after the merger, Adrian City Administrator Greg Elliott said in an email. While the City is a member of the Chamber, our interests are different than the average business. We are interested in City events and businesses receiving the same attention as those in other communities that the Chamber serves. The Chamber closed its office in Adrian after the merger. For a time, it seemed to pay more attention to businesses and events in other communities. We have had discussions with members of their Board and do believe that the Chamber, as an organization, is committed to evening out its focus.

Dennis said he is confident that those wounds can be healed.

I believe in reconciliation. I believe in the power of integrity and communication. I believe that if we all own up to our mistakes, reconcile, and move forward, we can do great things. While I do not know all of the details of what may have caused any wounds, Im confident that those wounds can be healed. I greatly look forward to having conversations with the city of Adrian and building quality relationships with city officials, Dennis said.

While the chambers current focus is to continue to establish a firm foundation in the Adrian and Tecumseh communities where its primary membership base is, the plan is to build relationships with the business community in the greater Lenawee County area to promote organic and sustainable growth, Dennis said.

As we plan to expand into other Lenawee communities, we must do so in a way that is not self-serving but focused on the success of the businesses of those communities to the benefit of the residents of those communities. The best way to do this is to build relationships, Dennis said. As I continue to familiarize myself with my new role, I plan to venture out and meet with business and government leaders in all of the communities of Lenawee County. I want to be known as a friend of Lenawee and one who champions the success of the countys residents and businesses.

Dennis started his new full-time role with the chamber Feb. 13 and has a long list of people he wants to meet and get to know, including chamber members, government leaders and other community leaders, he said.

He will have a chance to meet a number of those people at the chambers March 14 meet and greet for him from 4 to 6 p.m. at Farver's at the Croswell at 129 E. Maumee St. in Adrian. The event is open to any member of the public who would like to network with chamber members and build relationships over cocktails.

Dennis attended the chambers Leadership Lenawee session recently, during which a panel spoke on economic development. One of the speakers was Chris Miller, a former Adrian economic development coordinator who is now an innovation fellow at the Michigan State University Economic Development Administration Center for Regional Economic Innovation. He said something that stuck with Dennis.

He said that when you look at the greater Lenawee community, you see a group of people who are more focused on collaboration than competition, Dennis said. That is exactly the kind of community Ive found Lenawee County to be, and I am thrilled for the opportunity to continue to foster that collaboration  Ive found Lenawee County to be full of people who want to see the community thrive.

Dennis lives in Dundee with his wife, Ryleigh, and their three children. Dundee is an approximate 15-minute drive to the chamber office in Tecumseh and a 30-minute drive to downtown Adrian.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: New Greater Lenawee chamber president and CEO seeks collaboration
U.S. President Joe Biden speaks on the student debt relief plan in the South Court Auditorium at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building on October 17, 2022 in Washington, DC. President Biden gave an update on the student debt relief portal beta test. Alex Wong/Getty Images

The Job Creators Network, one of the groups challenging Biden's student-debt relief in the Supreme Court, said it feels "very good" about its case.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court will hear arguments for two lawsuits that blocked the relief.

Biden's administration and Democrats have pushed back on the plaintiffs' standing to sue.

One of the groups that blocked President Joe Biden's student-debt relief plan is feeling confident going into oral arguments at the nation's highest court.

On Tuesday, the Supreme Court is taking on two lawsuits that paused Biden's plan to cancel up to $20,000 in student debt for federal borrowers. One of them was filed by six Republican-led states that argued the relief would hurt their states' tax revenues. The other challenge is from two student-loan borrowers who sued because they did not qualify for the full $20,000 amount of relief.

The latter case was filed by the Job Creators Network Foundation Legal Action Fund on behalf of the borrowers in October. One of the borrowers sued because he did not qualify for a Pell Grant, and therefore would only qualify for $10,000 in relief instead of $20,000. The other borrower sued because her loans were commercially-held and not eligible for any federal debt cancellation.

The group argued that the administration violated the Administrative Procedure Act's notice-and-comment procedure, a federal statute that requires agencies to justify rulemaking to the public and give them an opportunity to comment. Karen Harned, chief legal officer for the Job Creators Network Foundation, told reporters on a Monday press call that "we feel very good about our case."

"Our legal arguments are strong," Harned said. "We do feel very strong on the merits of the claim."

"We also think that it's very clear the HEROES Act did not authorize the program," she added. "This really is reminiscent of what we saw with the CDC eviction program and even the OSHA vaccine mandate program, where the government really acted, we believe, outside of the authority it was given on a question of significant economic and political importance that needed Congress to specifically say this was allowed and this administration cannot just sit behind closed doors."

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Harned was referring to the HEROES Act of 2003, which Biden used in his plan. It gives the Education Secretary the ability to waive or modify student-loan balances in connection with a national emergency, like COVID-19. Both of the lawsuits challenging Biden's plan said the broad debt relief is an overreach of that authority and should not be done without Congressional approval.

People familiar with the administration's legal strategy also told reporters on a Thursday call that Biden's plan is directed toward remedying the consequences of a national emergency, not stopping the spread of disease  and those financial consequences will remain long after the emergency is over, which is why the relief is warranted.

Additionally, the Supreme Court will be weighing whether plaintiffs in both cases have standing, meaning the plaintiff would be injured by the policy, that the injury can be directly traced back to the defendant, and that the relief they're seeking would address those injuries. Those familiar with the administration's legal strategy said that in the Job Creators Network's case, their desired outcome wouldn't even work in their favor because striking down the relief entirely wouldn't fix their alleged injury of not getting any, or enough, relief.

Still, Republican groups and lawmakers are staying on the offense. Republican lawmakers on the House education committee released a blog post on Monday blasting Biden's "illegal and radical student loan scam."

"Biden is abusing a 2003 law meant to provide time-limited relief to military members during deployment following the attacks on 9/11," it said. "Rather than work with Congress to reform our broken higher education system, this administration is keeping the pandemic going to enact costly student loan 'forgiveness' despite claiming the COVID-19 national emergency was over months ago when acting on other policies."

It's unclear which way the conservative-majority Supreme Court will lean on this case, but Biden's administration and Democratic lawmakers have held that canceling student debt is necessary to help millions of borrowers recover from the pandemic, and the HEROES Act is well within its authority.

Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren released a report on Monday, exclusively reviewed by Insider, that detailed "financial disaster for millions of Americans" if the Supreme Court strikes down Biden's relief, and Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal wrote on Twitter that the lawsuits are "the story of right-wing billionaires who are happy to take government subsidies for themselves but don't want to help working people get relief."

Read the original article on Business Insider
A California man bilked investors out of $8.75 million over the span of five years by pretending to be in the business of turning cow manure into green energy, according to the Department of Justice. He even moved to Montana and changed his identity to escape civil judgments against him, the DOJ said in a statement.

Ray Brewer of Porterville pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to wire fraud, money laundering and identity theft charges related to the multi-million-dollar fraud scheme, in which the 66-year-old told investors he was building anaerobic digesters on dairies in Fresno, Kern, Kings, and Tulare counties, along with other locations across the state and in Idaho.

The DOJ said Brewer promised investors 66% of all net profits from Renewable Energy Credits created by the digesters, along with tax credits from installing the machines, which use microorganisms to break down biodegradable material and turn it into methane.

According to court records, Brewer took investors on tours of dairies where he said the digesters would be built and had forged lease agreements with the dairy owners. He also gave investors altered banking agreements that made it look like he had obtained millions of dollars in loans to build the digesters, as well as forged contracts with multinational companies to show he had secured revenue streams.

He later sent investors fake construction schedules and invoices for project-related costs, fake power generation reports and even faked pictures, all to make it seem like the business was progressing.

Court records show he actually transferred the investors money into multiple other bank accounts opened in the names of different entities, under the names of family members and an alias. He eventually used that money to buy two 10-plus-acre plots of land, a 3,700-square-foot custom home and new Dodge Ram pickup truck.

Brewer also used money from newer investors to give as refunds to older investors, as a way to keep the scheme going.

Investors eventually realized the fraud and obtained civil judgments against Brewer, but he moved to Sheridan, Montana and assumed a new identity, the Justice Department said.

Brewer is scheduled for sentencing June 26 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 for the wire fraud conviction; 20 years and $500,000 (or twice the amount of money involved) for the money laundering conviction and a mandatory two years, consecutive to other counts, for aggravated identity theft.
A jury in Ada County has decided that one of Idahos largest groups of emergency-medicine providers must pay $13.5 million in a medical malpractice lawsuit that took nearly five years to make its way through the courts.

The case against an Emergency Medicine of Idaho LLC physician and the company itself could be appealed. But for now, it is the second largest medical malpractice jury award in Idaho history.

The largest award  nearly $30 million  was in a federal case more than 20 years ago, when Idaho parents sued a doctor and hospital in Blaine County over injuries to their child that arose from medical care to the mother.

Idaho law caps how much a jury can award plaintiffs for damages like pain and suffering  the cap is currently about $400,000  but there is an exception to that cap for injuries arising out of willful or reckless misconduct.

The Ada County jury found that to be true of the Meridian-based emergency medical group, which staffs St. Lukes Health System emergency departments in the Treasure Valley.

Of course we are disappointed in the verdict. We will pursue all remedies to address our concerns regarding the case and its outcome. Unfortunately, as litigation is ongoing, we cannot comment any further at this time, Dr. Matt Hulquist, president of Emergency Medicine of Idaho, said in an emailed statement to the Idaho Capital Sun.

The lawsuit, filed in 2018, originally named St. Lukes, a radiology group and individual health care providers as defendants. In the years since, all but EMI and its physician have settled the claims against them, according to court records.

Six years ago, he went to the ER with a stroke

The case goes back to the early morning of March 29, 2016. That is when Ada County resident Colleen Moulton discovered her husband, Carl B. Stiefel, on the bathroom floor. He had a severe headache and vomiting and became progressively more confused, according to the lawsuit.

She called for an ambulance, and Stiefel arrived in the hospital emergency department at 4:12 a.m.

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Within about 11 minutes, a doctor was examining Stiefel. Stiefel had recently had sinus congestion, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and a ringing in his right ear.

About an hour later, another doctor said a CT scan of Stiefels head showed no acute intracranial process  meaning, no sign of a stroke, bleeding or similar problem in his head.

Stiefels nausea improved in the emergency room, but he remained too dizzy to walk, the lawsuit said, so the first doctor who examined him decided he should be admitted to the hospital for benign positional vertigo, the lawsuit said.

Physicians, including the first doctor who examined him, decided Stiefel might also need an MRI  which offers a more detailed look inside a bodys tissue  if his condition failed to improve as the day went on.

It took at least three hours for Stiefel to be transferred from the emergency room to a hospital bed where he could be observed, according to the lawsuit. By then, another health care provider found him to be delirious without meaningful interaction, the lawsuit said.

It took another four to five hours for Stiefel to be seen by another doctor, the lawsuit said.

Stiefel was disoriented and restless and couldnt answer questions about his health as the day went on, according to the lawsuit. A doctor ordered an MRI of his brain, but the machine was not available for hours, according to nursing notes cited in the lawsuit.

Stiefel received an MRI at about 5:50 p.m. It showed he was having a stroke and had a torn artery in his neck.

A surgeon operated on him over the next two days. But Stiefels health worsened, and he spent the next three weeks in the hospital, a local rehabilitation facility and back in the hospital with a case of bacterial meningitis, the lawsuit said.

At the time Moulton and Stiefel sued, he had an irreparable brain injury, impaired movement, was on disability and could no longer work, the lawsuit said.

Emergency Medicine of Idaho denied liability

In their response to the lawsuit, EMI and the primary doctor who treated Stiefel in the emergency room said they specifically deny any and all allegations of responsibility and liability in the case.

The doctor and EMI said Stiefels injuries had causes beyond the medical teams responsibility.

They argued that the medical treatment Stiefel received from the ER doctor was standard for a patient with his medical condition and that the doctor was at no time  guilty of negligence or improper treatment. The injuries were a result of complications, not poor medical care, they said.

But after a trial in late January, an Ada County jury found that the doctor  as a member of EMIs medical team  was reckless in failing to meet standards for medical care, which caused Stiefels injuries.

Eric S. Rossman, of the Rossman Law Group PLLC in Boise, represented Stiefel and Moulton and said in an emailed statement that they are very satisfied with the verdict and they very much appreciate the rendering of justice from the jury in this case.

St. Lukes wants Ammon Bundy held in contempt of court, at least $7.5M in damages

Nampa OBGYN suspended after video of inappropriate comments about patients

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The nine worst-rated Idaho nursing homes, according to the government. Take a look
Former Ambassador Nikki Haleys presidential campaign proposal to impose mental competency tests for politicians aged 75 and older has reignited debates about how to decide who is fit to lead.

It puts the spotlight on calls for generational change sure to be front and center during the 2024 campaign cycle and on battles over whether those calls constitute a form of ageism.

(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

The proposal was a dig at President Biden, who will be 82 by the time of the next presidential inauguration  though former President Trump would be 78  but it would also have implications for the rest of Washington, where nearly 10 percent of Congress is at least 75 years old.

That includes some of the top leaders and decision-makers in both parties.

Psychiatric and aging experts warn that it would be difficult to create and implement a fair and effective test to measure politicians mental competency, and drawing a line in the sand at age 75 to require such a test doesnt necessarily make sense.

President Biden

Photo by: Greg Nash

Ive encountered individuals in their 80s, 90s or hundreds, who are much more mentally flexible and aware of current world events and the interaction of such things than are some of the 20- and 30- and 40-year-olds that Ive worked with, said Dr. Bennett Blum, an expert in mental capacity and legal issues affecting the elderly.

The proposal from Haley, 51, has been met with some sharp criticism from those who would be subject to it.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), 81, pushed back on the idea on CBSs Face the Nation last week, calling it absurd and ageist. Haley fired back by tweeting that is exactly what a career politician and socialist would say, charging that the Washington establishment is afraid of the people finding out some of our leaders arent fit to serve.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.)

Annabelle Gordon

Trump, for his part, expressed support for the idea, writing on his website Truth Social that ANYBODY running for the Office of President of the United States should agree to take a full & complete Mental Competency Test.

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The age of Congress

(AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)

An NBC News analysis of data from the @unitedstates Project found that the average age of members of Congress has steadily climbed since the 1980s.

In the 118th Congress that started in January, the average age in the Senate is 63.9 years and 57.5 years in the House. Right now, 16 Senators and 36 members of the House are 75 or older.

Some of those individuals have powerful positions. House Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is 81. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) is 78. House Appropriations Committee Chair Kay Granger (R-Texas) is 80, and the committees Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) is 79.

Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.

Photo by: Greg Nash

Until they stepped down at the end of the last cycle, House Democrats long-time leaders  former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.)  were both over the age of 80.

Several news articles have questioned the mental fitness of 89-year-old Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who is not running for reelection in 2024, with reports of memory lapses.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)

Photo by: Annabelle Gordon

Shortly after she announced her retirement, she appeared momentarily confused when a reporter asked her about the decision.

Feinstein has defended her mental fitness.

I meet regularly with leaders. Im not isolated. I see people. My attendance is good. I put in the hours. We represent a huge state. And so Im rather puzzled by all of this, Feinstein told the San Francisco Chronicles editorial board last year.

Calls for generational change

Its common for younger candidates to argue that its time for older leaders to pass the torch to a new generation. And imposing an upper age limit on politicians is popular among voters.

An August 2022 CBS/YouGov survey found 73 percent support among U.S. adults for imposing a maximum age limit on elected officials. And a November 2022 Reuters/Ipsos poll found 67 percent of Americans said that there should be upper-age limits on the president and members of Congress.

It is not unheard of to require age limits on public officials. Most states set mandatory retirement ages for judges.

But opponents of age limits argue that it can take years to develop the type of institutional knowledge and relationships that allow them to most effectively work for their constituents.

And the publics opinions on the matter are also complex. The Reuters/Ipsos poll found 55 percent support for allowing lawmakers to stay in office as long as they are in good health, regardless of age, and 61 percent said older leaders should not be discounted just because of their age.

Measuring mental competency can be difficult

Dr. Tracey Gendron, Chair for the Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Gerontology and the Executive Director of the Virginia Center on Aging, said age alone is not a good predictor of health or ability.

Aging is not a homogenous, linear experience; there are no milestones or expectations to make comparisons. Sweeping, blanket statements about using age as a barometer for ability is dangerous and misguided, Gendron said.

(AP Photo/ Evan Vucci)

Gendon said that crystallized intelligence or ability, representing cumulative skills and memories, continues to improve well into later in life. Fluid intelligence, the ability to process new information, is known as to decline with age, but that perceived reduction dissipates or disappears when attentional factors like concentration or perceptual speed are considered.

But even if every politician were required to take a cognitive test regardless of age, it would be difficult to come up with a metric to assess those abilities.

Our society would have to figure out what specific cognitive abilities are required, what specific knowledge levels required, what specific ability regarding emotional control is required. And those have not been enumerated, said Blum.

Press releases from the Haley campaign point to the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, or MoCA, a brief screening tool used when screening for cognitive impairment related to Parkinsons disease, dementia, Alzheimers, and other conditions. Trump boasted in 2020 that he aced that cognitive screening.

But that test, experts said, can give false positives or negatives, and would likely require further testing.

It looks at different cognitive domains. It looks at your attention and concentration, executive function, or the more complex problem solving ability, memory, language, looks at visual spatial skills, calculations, psychiatrist Karen Reimers said.

It doesnt tell you things that might be really pertinent for somebodys ability to function. As a politician, you know, things like age-associated experience or wisdom can be very important, Reimers said.

Blum called Haleys assessment suggestion a blatant negation of anything that involves sophistication, or understanding of context, or of treating adults as adults.

(AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File)

Our societal system has built into it the  ability to look at a persons behavior and render an opinion as to whether that person is fit to be in the position that they are in, Blum said. And I think thats a good method. Its different than giving someone some type of a test so that you get a numeric score  But its a much more sophisticated nuanced method of evaluating people that we entrust with power at any level that comes with power and responsibility, that takes into account much more than any simple test ever could.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Diversity, equity and inclusion leaders, who were hired in waves to help companies achieve an ethnically balanced workforce after George Floyds murder in 2020, are being phased out, surveys indicate, leaving experts in the field concerned that corporations talk of affecting change was just empty words.

DEI roles increased by 55% following demands for broader racial equity and justice after Floyds murder, the Society for Human Resource Management reported in 2020. But instead of creating fair opportunities and a comfortable work culture for Black employees, a pair of recent reports indicate, DEI professionals are losing their jobs, as layoffs across the economy have gained momentum.

Chris Metzler (Evelyn Montez)

The attrition rate for DEI roles was 33% at the end of 2022, compared to 21% for non-DEI roles. Amazon, Applebees and Twitter lead the way with DEI layoffs since July 2022, according to Revelio Labs, a New York-based company that uses data to analyze workforce dynamics and trends.

Another survey showed that Black employees represent only 3.8% of chief diversity officers overall, with white people making up 76.1% of the roles. Those of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity make up 7.8% and those of Asian ethnicity make up 7.7%

Reyhan Ayas, a senior economist at Revelio Labs, which surveyed DEI layoffs, said the data shows the pledge to impact change was not followed by genuine effort.

I always say that it is so easy to make public statements and commitments because no one will eventually check if youre committed to the things that you committed to, she said. I can say: I will be fully vegan by 2025 because no one will ever call me in 2025 and ask me if Im actually fully vegan. And thats really what is going on here. In 2020, a lot of companies made big commitments, big statements around the DEI roles and goals. And as we are observing a turning of that tide, I think its very timely that we actually look into companies to see if they have kept up with those big statements they made.

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DEI professional Nika White, author of the book, Inclusion Uncomplicated, said the studies also reveal the harsh reality of many companies commitments to diversity. This is very disheartening, especially after so many of us were hopeful after George Floyds murder that organization leaders would be sensitized and committed to equity and inclusion.

Nika White (Stacey Gardin)

But the opposite has happened. Revelio Labs 2023 report on the state of DEI and the impact of last years layoffs, found that DEI-focused roles experienced a nearly 40% churn rate at companies engaged in layoffs, as compared to about 24% for non-DEI roles.

The stunning absence of Black people in chief diversity officer roles in companies makes DEI professionals cringe.

This is a role that is essential to advocating and advancing the progress for underrepresented talent at these organizations, said Wade Hinton, founder of Hinton and Co., a DEI firm in Chattanooga, Tennessee. And so, you want to make sure that it reflects the diversity of our communities and this country, and its clear that weve got work to do on this.

Together, the studies mean something more to Chris Metzler, senior vice president, corporate DEI and environmental, social and governance strategies at the National Urban League. The influx of DEI officer hires in 2020, he said, was disingenuous and the positions have largely been weakened to the point of being toothless.

Wade Hinton (Harlan Breaux)

Most of your diversity professionals at these companies report to human resources, which are headed by white women and in some cases, white men, he said. So, it doesnt surprise me that Black diversity officers . . . are being moved out. Its increasingly becoming a dead-end job. Corporations are saying one thing and demonstrating something else. Its going back to checking the box versus hiring and keeping qualified workers who can impact change in the company.

Tai Robinson, a human resources professional in Houston, said the value of Black DEI officers can be significant, if given in-house support because they are specifically trained for the role. When a white human resources person listens to African Americans voice their concerns, she said, they can end up sounding like complaints, although they are just concerns. And thats a problem.

Some in the field say two other concerns helped make DEI positions expendable: a lack of support from higher-ups and the hiring of workers who have little or no experience in executing this specialized job.

Tai Robinson (Courtesy Tai Robinson)

So many of these individuals were receiving these great salaries, Robinson said. But in reality, they were wearing golden handcuffs, unable to do but so much because the organization leaders didnt want much done.

Metzler agreed, adding that without support, the DEI officers are set up to fail.

They have the title; they dont have the authority. In some cases, they dont have the budgets, so its difficult to navigate that terrain, he said.

There is a value proposition to this work. Its an important job that requires trained professionals, Metzler added. It is time for organizations to retool the description and to hire the right people for these positions and not just fill a position with someone who has no idea where to even begin.

Metzler insists the focus should shift from DEI to environmental, social and governance strategy, which has three pillars: how a companys practices impact the environment; the social consequences of a companys performance; and governance over an organizations decisions and ramifications of those decisions.

ESG is the way forward, he said. Were still in that old, affirmative action, equal employment opportunity definition of diversity, which is part of the reason why were not moving in any significant way.

Still, while bothered by the drop-off of DEI officers, Hinton said he remains encouraged that the trend can be reversed.

Im optimistic because I consult with clients every day, he said. I know first-hand that there are organizations that truly want to see progress made. But collectively weve got to make sure that were encouraging those organizations to encourage their peers to work with them to advance this work.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
SpaceX and NASA had to stand down on Monday mornings launch attempt for the Crew-6 mission to the International Space Station.

4:05 a.m. update:

SpaceX confirmed that its next launch attempt for Crew-6 will be Thursday.

Crews are now targeting 12:34 a.m. on March 2.

Im proud of the NASA and SpaceX teams focus and dedication to keeping Crew-6 safe, said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. Human spaceflight is an inherently risky endeavor and, as always, we will fly when we are ready.

1:50 a.m. update:

SpaceX announced a few minutes before its planned launch that it is standing down from Mondays launch attempt.

A technical issue forced teams to halt the countdown clock and scrub the launch.

Standing down from tonight's launch of Crew-6 due to a TEA-TEB ground system issue. Both Crew-6 and the vehicles are healthy and propellant offload has begun ahead of the crew disembarking Dragon  SpaceX (@SpaceX) February 27, 2023

Crews are looking over the issues that prevented Mondays launch attempt.

Original report:

NASA and SpaceX are scheduled to launch four astronauts to the International Space Station aboard a Falcon 9 rocket early Monday as part of their Crew-6 mission.

The rocket is scheduled to launch from Kennedy Space Centers Launch Complex 39A at 1:45 a.m. Monday.

This is the Dragon spacecrafts sixth operational human spaceflight mission to the ISS.

If the launch gets scrubbed, the next launch opportunity will be at 1:22 a.m. Tuesday. But certified meteorologist George Waldenberger said that weather conditions are favorable for the planned launch time.

Read: NASA, SpaceX complete rehearsals for Crew-6 launch to International Space Station

The Dragon spacecraft supporting Mondays mission previously flew Demo-2, Crew-2 and Axiom Spaces Ax-1 to and from the ISS.

Story continues

After stage separation, the rockets first stage will land on the Just Read the Instructions droneship stationed in the Atlantic Ocean.

During their time on the ISS, the crew will conduct more than 200 science experiments and technological demonstrations.

Read: SpaceX plans for Falcon 9 rocket launch from Floridas Space Coast this weekend

The experiments and demonstrations are related to life, physical sciences, advanced materials, technology development, in-space production applications and student-led research.

The webcast for the Crew-6 mission will begin at 12:45 a.m., one hour before liftoff. Click here to watch the launch live when it happens.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, European Space Agency's Matthias Maurer exits the SpaceX Dragon space capsule after splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico off Tampa, Florida, early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, astronaut Kayla Barron exits the SpaceX Dragon space capsule after splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico off Tampa, Florida, early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon capsule uses parachutes as it descends in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon capsule uses parachutes as it descends in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon space capsule splashes down in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon space capsule splashes down in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In a photo provided by NASA, the SpaceX capsule spacecraft lands in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Tampa, Fla, early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon space capsule splashes down in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon space capsule is lifted out of the water after splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.

In this image made from video supplied by NASA, SpaceX Dragon space capsule is lifted out of the water after splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico early Friday, May 6, 2022.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Vice President Kamala Harris promoted the Biden administration's achievements on broadband internet access during a visit to South Carolina, recently minted as the site of Democrats' first presidential votes of the 2024 campaign.

In Monday's trip, her fourth to the early-voting state since becoming vice president, Harris lauded more than $175 million being spent to help improve high-speed internet infrastructure at historically Black colleges and institutions, which she called centers of academic excellence.

"Many of those that we focus on currently do not have reliable access to high-speed internet on campus," said Harris, herself a graduate of an HBCU. This means that more students will be able to use the internet for their everyday needs.

Harris' remarks to a room of at least 100 supporters and student leaders from Benedict College, an HBCU in Columbia, came as Democrats national attention hones in on South Carolina, where a landslide 2020 primary win gave Joe Biden the momentum to notch Super Tuesday wins and bounce several opponents from the race.

Biden has repeatedly acknowledged the states pivotal role in his nomination as well as the significance of its heavily Black Democratic electorate. During remarks at a fundraiser last year, Harris thanked South Carolina Democrats, who set President Joe Biden and me on a path to the White House.

Late last year, Biden asked the Democratic National Committee to move the state to the top of the presidential primary voting calendar, which party officials did this month. Via its email lists, South Carolinas Democratic Party has already begun selling buttons, mugs and apparel flaunting the states new status with the tagline South Carolina Democrats Pick Winners.

But Harris appearance also comes as a debate swirls over whether Biden  who, at age 80, is the nations oldest president  should seek a second term in office, as is widely expected. According to a poll released this month from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, just 37% of Democrats said they wanted Biden to seek a second term.

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Though hes long said its his intent to seek reelection, Biden has yet to make it official, struggling to dispel questions about whether hes too old to continue serving as president. In an exclusive interview last week with The Associated Press, first lady Jill Biden gave one of the clearest indications yet that her husband will run in 2024, saying that theres pretty much nothing left to do but figure out the time and place for the announcement.

The Republican candidate field is already forming, with a focus on South Carolina, home to the first GOP presidential primary in the South. Former President Donald Trump held a campaign event in the Statehouse last month, and former Gov. Nikki Haley announced her candidacy in Charleston a few weeks later. Sen. Tim Scott is also mulling a potential bid.

Equalizing access to high-speed internet has been a priority for Biden, who in 2021 signed into law a $1 trillion infrastructure package that, alongside traditional public works projects like building roads and bridges, included $65 billion for broadband expansion.

Expanding broadband internet availability also has been a top priority for Rep. Jim Clyburn, one of the White House's top Capitol Hill supporters and South Carolina's lone congressional Democrat. Clyburn, the chamber's assistant Democratic leader, has long advocated for more widespread internet access nationwide, pushing for affordable, high-speed networks in rural communities.

Last week, Clyburn appeared alongside Republican Gov. Henry McMaster to announce the formation of a program  funded by the bipartisan infrastructure package  designed to identify the areas of greatest need in South Carolina and invest in broadband infrastructure.

___

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP.
[Source]

A memorial honoring Filipino and Filipino American veterans of World War II was unveiled in Hawaii during a ceremony on Friday.

The monument consists of four life-sized bronze soldier statues representing members of the Philippine Constabulary, 1st Filipino Division, Filipino Scouts, Filipino Guerillas and the 1st and 2nd Filipino Regiments from Hawaii and the mainland. It was in the works for over five years as a collaborative effort between artist Kelley Hestir, veterans and an advisory committee.

Among the ceremony attendees were veterans Arthur Caleda, 99; Oscar Bangui, 98; and Faustino Garcia, 101, who were joined by the families of deceased veterans. Around a dozen surviving Filipino WWII survivors live in Hawaii.

Caleda, 99, told Hawaii News Now that he and his fellow veterans are very happy.

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When he was asked what the ceremony meant for him and his family, Garcia, who attended the unveiling with his wife Erlinda, niece Miriam and nephew Rodolfo, said, Its good, its for the future, especially for the grandchildren.

The monument was placed in front of the Waipahu Public Library of Oahu after veterans decided that a place of learning would be a fitting location.

"It teaches me strength. It teaches me power. It teaches me identity. For it to be in front of the center of education, you can invite people to learn more about that. I think its very powerful," Ella Lacanienta, whose grandfather was a Filipino veteran, said, according to Hawaii News Now.

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In addition to the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to 260,000 Filipino and Filipino American soldiers in 2017, the state of Hawaii introduced a bill to authorize the funding of the monument in 2017.

It called for $200,000 to be allocated to the Hawaii state foundation on culture and the arts for the creation of a permanent memorial to commemorate the dedication and valor of Filipino veterans.

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Its great to honor our veterans. But I think the real honor is carrying that legacy forward in any way, in every way possible, to generation after generation after generation, said Ron Han, director of the State Department of Defenses Office of Veterans Services.

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China says US has 'evil intentions' after YouTube channel of Hong Kong chief executive candidate shut down
Hayden Panettiere and brother Jansen Panettiere at the 2013 Environmental Media Awards. (Photo: WireImage)

Jansen Panettiere's cause of death has been revealed one week after his sudden passing. Jansen, the younger brother of actress Hayden Panettiere, died from an enlarged heart, according to his family. He was 28.

"Jansen's heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit," the Panettiere's confirmed in a statement to Yahoo Entertainment. "His charisma, warmth, compassion for others, and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered. We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss, and ask that we be gifted our privacy during this time of mourning. We love you so much Jansen and you will be in our hearts forever."

Jansen, who was also an actor, was found dead on Feb. 19 in New York.

"Though it offers little solace, the Medical Examiner reported Jansen's sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications," they added. It was released on behalf of Jansen's mother Lesley Vogel, father Skip Panettiere and Hayden.

It's the first statement from Hayden since news of her brother's death broke. The Scream VI star has not posted on social media in two weeks.

According to a police report obtained by TMZ, Jansen's friends became alarmed when he failed to show up to a business meeting on Sunday, Feb. 19. They went to his apartment where he was found unresponsive. Skip told authorizes he spoke to his son the night prior and everything sounded "okay." No foul play was suspected.

Jansen followed in his sister's footsteps and broke into Hollywood at a young age. He appeared on shows including The Walking Dead and Everybody Hates Chris. He voiced a character in Ice Age: The Meltdown and on the series The X's. He starred in the Nickelodeon film The Last Day of Summer. Jansen had four upcoming projects, according to IMDB.
After that massive cliffhanger in Episode 6 of the HBO hit The Last of Us (on Crave in Canada), where Joel (Pedro Pascal) is stabbed and seriously injured, Episode 7 of the show looks back at what Ellie's (Bella Ramsey) life was like before we met her at the beginning of the show.

While we wait to see what happens with Joel and if he and Ellie can actually make it to the Fireflies working on a cure, the newest episode of the series answers one major question: How did Ellie get bitten in the first place?

Here's everything you need to know from Episode 7 of HBO's The Last of Us (spoilers ahead):

Bella Ramsey in HBO's The Last of Us (Liane Hentscher/HBO)

The episode begins with Ellie and Joel in an abandoned house, they're in the basement of this property and Ellie is trying to stop the bleeding from Joel's torso. He grabs her and tells Ellie to leave him and go north back to Tommy, and forcefully pushes her away. Ellie covers Joel with a jacket and starts going up the stairs to the main floor of the house. That's when we enter the flashback to Ellie's past.

We now see Ellie at the FEDRA school she attended in Boston, before she ended up with Marlene (Merle Dandridge), as we saw in the first episode of the series. She's running around a gym with her fellow schoolmates, listening to music on her walkman cassette tape player, when a girl named Bethany yanks her headphones off, telling Ellie to pick up the pace.

Ellie says she doesn't want to fight and Bethany responds by saying, "You dont fight. Your friend fights. Shes not here anymore, is she?"

That leads Ellie to punch Bethany, heading to Cpt. Kwong's office to get disciplined for her actions. We find out Ellie has been getting into quite a bit of trouble at school, which leads Kwong to urge her to take a better path, that there's a "leader" in Ellie and FEDRA can really hold the city together.

Bella Ramsey, Storm Reid in HBO's The Last of Us (Liane Hentscher/HBO)

Who is Riley in 'The Last of Us'?

Back in her room, Ellie is reading a "Savage Starlight" comic. The first "No Pun Intended" book by Will Livingston is nearby, a Mortal Kombat poster is on the wall, and she has Etta James and A-ha music for her walkman.

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She falls asleep and Ellie's friend Riley (Storm Reid) comes into the room through the window. Ellie thought she was dead because she hasn't seen her friend in three weeks. Riley reveals that she is now a gun-carrying Firefly, something that doesn't particularly please Ellie.

Riley has returned to sneak Ellie out of the school to have "the best night of [her] life."

Initially resistant, Ellie agrees to go. As she changes her clothes, Ellie asks Riley to turn and face away from her.

"You're so weird about that," Riley says. It's a detail to remember as we see how this relationship plays out in the episode.

The pair first make a stop at an apartment building, going up to the seventh floor where they see a dead body, a man who has a bottle of booze and pills on the ground next to him. The girls take the alcohol and head out, both drinking some before arriving at an abandoned mall, which had been sealed off because it was filled with infected.

Ellie probes Riley about how she became a Firefly. Riley responds by explaining that one day, while Ellie was being punished for her bad behaviour in "the hole," she snuck out and an "old" woman, who Riley describes as being in her 40s or 50s, indicated she was impressed by Riley's ability to sneak around. The woman asked Riley about her thoughts on FEDRA and Riley said they're "fascist d-ck bags and they're the ones who should be hung for their crimes." That's when Riley was propositioned to join the Fireflies.

Bella Ramsey, Storm Reid in HBO's The Last of Us (Liane Hentscher/HBO)

In the mall, Riley promises to show Ellie the "four wonders," but Ellie is particularly excited about getting to experience an escalator, so now it's really the five wonders of the mall.

As they walk through the mall, looking at the stores, Riley starts giggling as they come to a lingerie store, saying she was imagining Ellie wearing a piece of lingerie in the window. Ellie stares at it for a moment, touching her hair, before Riley guides her over to a merry-go-round.

Ellie continues to try to convince Riley to go back to FEDRA, saying they could make things better and "run things." But Riley says, since she's turning 17 next month, she got her assignment from FEDRA, which was sewer detail.

Stand in guard while people shovel shit," Riley said. "Thats what they think of me.

Moving on again, the pair go into a photo booth and take a series of funny pictures that Ellie keeps with her. They then head into an arcade with games like Tetris, Attack From Mars, Daytona USA and Mortal Kombat II.

Riley also got Ellie a gift, the second volume of the "No Pun Intended" book, which we've seen Ellie use to entertain herself, and Joel, in previous episodes.

Ellie then realizes that Riley didn't actually just stumble upon this mall, she was posted there by Fireflies to guard their stash, including weapons.

"They would never use them on you or anywhere near. ... I would never let them," Riley says, but Ellie isn't confident about that.

Bella Ramsey, Storm Reid in HBO's The Last of Us (Liane Hentscher/HBO)

'You're my best friend and Ill miss you'

As Ellie starts to walk away, Riley reveals that this is her last night in Boston because she's leaving for a post at the Atlanta QZ. Riley says she asked Marlene if Ellie could go too, but Marlene said no.

Ellie storms off but ends up returning. She hears a scream coming from a shop with costumes and decorations. She thinks it's Riley screaming but it's actually just a Halloween decoration Riley wanted to show Ellie. Another wonder of the mall.

Maybe the Fireflies aren't who I think they are but they chose me. I matter to them," Riley says to Ellie

You're my best friend and Ill miss you," Ellie says in response.

To lighten the mood, Riley pulls out the walkman she took from Ellie's room and starts playing Etta James' "I Got You Babe," and they dance around with a clown and a wolf mask on.

Ellie tells Riley not to go and kisses her. Ellie apologizes but Riley says, "for what," and they both start laughing together.

But sweet moments don't last long in The Last of Us. A Clicker comes out from behind a store shelf and starts attacking them. Ellie stabs the creature, then Riley hits it over the head while the Clicker is attacking Ellie. Then it goes after Riley, and Ellie stabs it in the head.

Ellie sees she has a bite mark on her forearm, and Riley has one on her hand. They both come to the realization that they're infected and will turn into Clickers.

Riley outlines two options. She says they can "take the easy way out," looking at her gun in her hand, but Riley quickly says she doesn't like that path. Option two, she says, is they keep going.

"It ends this way for everyone sooner or later right? Some of us just get there faster than others," Riley says. "But we dont quit."

Riley holds Ellie's hand and while they're both crying she says, "Whether it's two minutes or two days, we don't give that up. I don't want to give that up."

Then we jump forward in time again. Ellie is opening all the drawers and cupboards in this house and finds a needle and thread. She runs back downstairs to Joel, holds his hand, and then starts stitching up his wound.

Leaving us guessing, we'll wait another week to find out if, or how, Joel survives his injury.
The Shapiro administration announced on Monday that the Pennsylvania Department of Health is opening a health resource center in Darlington Township, Beaver County following the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine.

PHOTOS: Massive explosion at start of controlled release of chemicals at train derailment

The center will be for residents of Beaver and Lawrence counties who have health concerns regarding the train derailment.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture will also be on hand at the center to help interested residents sign up for free, independent water testing and to provide guidance on food and animal safety.

RELATED >>> Pitt scientist with experience studying vinyl chloride shares concerns following train derailment

The center is set to open Tuesday, Feb. 28 at the Darlington Township Building, 3590 Darlington Rd., Darlington, PA 16115. The Center will be open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and is scheduled to operate through March 10.

Today, my Administration is taking another step to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of every Pennsylvanian affected by the Norfolk Southern train derailment, said Gov. Shapiro. Starting Tuesday, Pennsylvanians who are concerned about the impacts of the derailment on their health will have an additional resource to turn to, where they can talk to public health experts right in their own community from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and Department of Human Services, to receive treatment should they need it. From the beginning of our response to Norfolk Southerns derailment, my Administration has worked hand-in-hand with first responders and emergency management personnel, our partners in Ohio, and the federal government to ensure our citizens in Western Pennsylvania have the resources and information they need to be safe and healthy.

RELATED COVERAGE >>> Concerns linger in East Palestine as EPA, FEMA teams planned to canvass neighborhoods

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On Sunday, the Department of Health began partnering with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to conduct door-to-door visits, starting with residents who were evacuated within the one-mile radius of the train derailment. They are conducting Assessment of Chemical Exposure (ACE) surveys that include discussing symptoms, experiences, and concerns about the impact of the train derailment. If residents arent available, information will be provided, and clinicians will schedule a follow-up visit. According to a release, the ACE surveyors are expected to reach other residents in the coming days and weeks, including residents who visit the health resource center.

Click here for more details on the states derailment response.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Residents near East Palestine train derailment reporting rashes, sore throats, headaches

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Local veterinarian reacts to viral post about dog testing for vinyl chloride after train derailment

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Beaver County, surrounding area still questioning whether water is safe following train derailment

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Less than two weeks ago, Heinz set out on a now-viral mission to find Elvis Francois, the man who survived nearly a month at sea by eating nothing but ketchup and seasonings. On Monday, the company told CBS News that they found him in Dominica  thanks to the internet and local reporters.

Francois, 47, rose to internet fame earlier this year when he was rescued by the Colombian military, who shared that Francois became lost while working on his boat in St. Maarten after the weather shifted and carried him out to sea. He wasn't able to navigate his way home, so all he could do was "sit down and wait"  and live off the little bits of food he had on board, "ketchup ... garlic powder and Maggi," a brand of soup.

His story prompted Heinz to put out a call for people to help them #FindtheKetchupBoatGuy so they could gift him a new boat that they promise will be "equipped with full navigational technology to avoid another disaster in the future."

"The hunt is over," a spokesperson for Heinz told CBS News on Monday. "Through the power of social media ... Elvis was located in the Caribbean on the island of Dominica."

The company said that its Instagram post reached 4.8 million people and garnered more than 4,000 likes  a brand record. It helped them get in touch with local Dominica news outlet EmoNews, who the company said was able to contact Francois.

In a Facebook post, EmoNews said that it "can confirm that the representatives of Heinz had a successful meeting with Elvis Francois via Zoom Conference call" on Friday.

"Heinz and Elvis are working out the logistical details of gifting him his new boat," Heinz said. "Anyone who shared, liked or commented on the brand's post helped broaden the reach and played an important part in finding Elvis and Heinz wants to thank everyone who helped."

EmoNews appears to have found Francois last week, posting a video interview with him on their Facebook page. In it, Francois says he's "quite a mysterious person" who enjoys traveling and taking risks. About his ordeal getting lost at sea, he said that he was by himself when he went adrift and that boat "had some issues."

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"I spent 24 days [out at sea]," he said. "I didn't have so much to make it, but just a bottle of ketchup ... garlic seasoning and a bottle of Maggi."

He also tried eating seaweed, but said "it was too strong."

"Everything happens for a reason. The ketchup ... has vitamins," he said. "... My body was still OK."

The reporter Francois spoke with in the video is also the first person he spoke with from home as he was rescued. It was the only person from the island he could get in contact with, he said, and he had asked the EmoNews journalist to let his family know he was OK.

At the time of the interview, Francois said people had told him about Heinz's search for him, but he hadn't been contacted by the company directly. But he said he would welcome the contact.

"I don't know what to think," he said. "I lost all that I had on the boat."

Heinz saw the video and commented.

"Incredible," they said. "We've hopped into your DMs  let's get Elvis his boat!"

Francois told the company "he thought it was 'really cool' to see something like this happen for him," a Heinz spokesperson said.

Heinz has not released details about the kind of boat they will give Francois.

In a video posted to EmoNews' Facebook page with Flow, Dominica's telecommunications provider, Francois was provided a new phone and was asked about his experience. The first question he was asked was, "How did you ration the ketchup?"

"[I was] thinking about what I can use to make a meal ... I made it three times a day."

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Americans in their 30s struggle with mounting debt
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Tax attorneys represent others in legal matters involving taxation. Tax lawyers play many important roles, although the role itself can vary greatly. In the most general sense, tax lawyers provide leverage for individuals, organizations and corporations against the Internal Revenue Service and State Franchise Tax Boards.

Learn: Pros and Cons of Living in a State With No Income Tax

Read: 3 Signs Youre Serious About Raising Your Credit Score

Hiring, or not, a tax attorney could make or break both your legal records and finances. Find out which financial situations might require legal representation.

The Role of a Tax Attorney

Under certain circumstances, hiring an attorney is not only advisable but necessary. A tax attorney can help with a number of different legal issues too big to tackle on your own, such as:

Keeping clients out of jail for tax fraud or tax evasion

Creating partnerships and structuring complex estate plans

Assisting with nonprofit organization formation, mergers and acquisitions, offers in compromise and other complex business matters

Some tax attorneys are also accountants, but most are rarely involved in filing tax returns. Like other types of legal specialties, tax attorneys might work as sole proprietors, in small firms or within large business law firms or partnerships.

In some states, tax attorneys might also handle real estate sales transactions.

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6 Times You Might Need a Tax Lawyer

If youre on the fence about hiring a tax attorney, ask yourself if youre in one of the following situations. If you are, hiring a tax lawyer could be in your best interest. Here are six times you might need a tax lawyer:

1. Starting and Running a Business

The Federal Income Tax System is incredibly complicated and many states have complex tax laws as well. A total of fourteen states and the District of Columbia allow cities to levy separate individual income taxes. If you are considering starting a business, it is important to have an advocate to help you understand your legal obligations, options and rights relating to taxation. Additionally, some business transactions could trigger a costly tax event that could be prevented with the help of a tax attorney.

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Even the most profitable businesses might fail without proper structuring and management. A tax attorney can assist with business transactions and potential tax consequences of financial decisions. For example, if you were forming a consulting firm with several other attorneys, a tax attorney could:

Review your objectives and advise you whether you should structure your firm as a partnership or a corporation. Advise how to treat large capital gains and losses, or writing off non-performing assets. As your company grows, a tax attorney could also assist with structuring profit sharing or defined benefit pension plans.

2. Gaining Tax-Exempt Status for Nonprofits

Nonprofit organizations, including churches, private schools, private foundations and charities, might benefit from a section 501(c)(3) status. A tax attorney can assist with the IRS application for nonprofit status by determining eligibility for exemption from federal income taxation.

3. Being Selected For an IRS Audit

If you have received a notice that youve been selected for an audit by the IRS, you have the right to an attorney of your choice who can represent you in communications with the IRS. IRS Form 2848 allows you to give someone power of attorney, in which the individual named can represent you before the IRS and to receive your tax information for the designated tax matter and tax year or reporting periods specified on the form. You also have rights to appeal many actions the IRS might make following a tax audit. A tax attorney can help you with an offer in compromise, or OIC, to settle a debt with the IRS.

4. Handling Probate Matters and Filing Estate Tax Returns

Tax attorneys can help with both death and taxes, both before and after ones passing. Many estate planning attorneys also handle probate matters and assist with final tax returns including filling out Form 706, if the gross estate of the decedent is valued at more than the filing threshold in the year of the decedents death. Attorneys might handle all of the work, or they might work with a CPA or Enrolled Agent for the actual return preparation.

5. Failing To Pay Taxes and Tax Fraud Criminal Investigations

If you are under criminal investigation by the IRS, you should consider consulting with a tax attorney  penalties for tax fraud can include prison time. Under your attorney-client privilege, your tax attorney is exempt from testifying against you, unlike your CPA. When a tax lien is filed against an individual, a tax attorney can help release the lien and find payment options to settle tax debt over time.

6. Protect Your Rights

It is important to remember, a CPA or a financial advisor cannot replace a tax lawyer. If you are facing an investigation by the IRS or a state tax agency, do not wait to speak with an attorney, and begin protecting your legal rights.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: When To Hire a Tax Attorney: 6 Reasons You Might Need One
The leaders of a new House committee on China condemned GOP Rep. Lance Gooden of Texas on Sunday for his questioning of Rep. Judy Chus loyalty to the U.S.

One of my colleagues, unfortunately, attacked Judy Chu, the first Chinese American congresswoman in the United States Congress, saying that somehow shes not loyal to the United States. I find that offensive as an Asian American myself, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois, the ranking Democrat on the panel, said in response to Goodens comments in an interview on CBS Face the Nation.

Rep. Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, the GOP chair of the China panel, who appeared with Krishnamoorthi on CBS, similarly called out Goodens comments.

We should not question anybodys loyalty to the United States. I think that is out of bounds. Its beyond the pale, Gallagher said.

In an interview on Fox News last week, Gooden suggested Chu, D-Calif., should not have a security clearance or access to classified briefings. Chu had defended Dominic Ng, a Biden appointee featured in an article by the conservative Daily Caller that alleged Ng has ties to a Chinese Communist Party front group.

Gooden said that he thinks Chu needs to be called out and that he questioned her loyalty or competence.

If she doesnt realize whats going on, then shes totally out of touch with one of her core constituencies, he said. Im really disappointed and shocked that someone like Judy Chu would have a security clearance and entitled to confidential intelligence briefings until this is figured out.

Chu pushed back against Goodens comments, which she said were absolutely outrageous.

It is based on false information spread by an extreme, right-wing website. Furthermore, it is racist. I very much doubt that he would be spreading these lies were I not of Chinese American descent, said Chu, the first Chinese American woman elected to Congress.

Gooden, a third-term lawmaker who is a member of the Judiciary Committee, was joined Feb. 15 by five other House Republicans in asking the FBI to investigate Ng, the CEO of East West Bank in California, whom President Joe Biden appointed last year to be the chair of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Advisory Council.

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Chu and other members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus  Democratic Reps. Grace Meng of New York and Ted Lieu of California and Mark Takano of California  rebuked their GOP colleagues days later in a joint statement.

As with every presidential appointee, Dominic Ng, who is Chinese American, has undergone an extensive vetting process and sworn an oath to support and defend the Constitution and serve the American public, they said. No Chinese Americans  indeed no Americans  should face suspicions of disloyalty or treason based on their ethnicity, nation of origin, or that of their family members.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON  House Republicans are looking to move forward with their investigation into the business dealings of President Joe Biden's family by requesting testimony from the Treasury Department after the federal agency failed to provide documents by the committee's deadline.

It's been over one month since the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability requested the records.

The committee claims the Treasury Department is obstructing their investigation by missing the Jan. 25 deadline it imposed, and is "acting in bad faith" by delaying production of the reports and providing no timeframe on when they will be provided.

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Biden under scrutiny: House Republicans gear up investigations of the president

In a Feb. 24 letter to Isabella More, the Department of Treasury's deputy assistant secretary for Oversight, House Oversight Chair James Comer, R-Ky., requested an agency representative testify before the committee on March 10. The hearing will examine the reasons the department provided as to why the documents requested have not been produced.

What has been Treasury's response?

In this image taken from a video, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen speaks during an interview with The Associated Press on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, in Dakar, Senegal. (AP Photo/Yesica Fisch)

According to Comer's letter, the Treasury Department has provided no timeframe on when documents will be produced and told the committee: "Treasury must confer with law enforcement partners, who may identify particular law enforcement conflicts or sensitivities... [T]his entire process takes considerable time to complete."

"While we cannot provide a firm timetable, we do hope to have additional information for you soon," the department wrote to lawmakers in an email message from Feb. 23 that the committee shared in its Feb. 24 letter to More.

More: Hunter Biden, White House, House GOP clash over widening investigation of Joe Biden's son

More: Hunter Biden's laptop tossed into Republican investigation machine with hearing Wednesday

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What are the reports the committee requested?

House Republicans requested "Suspicious Activity Reports" generated from Biden's family members on foreign or high-dollar transactions.

The reports are flagged by financial institutions to a network that falls under the Treasury Department, according to the letter.

Republicans, who were in the minority in the House last Congress, requested the same documents from the Treasury Department in 2022 and did not receive the reports.

Investigating the investigators: GOP creates panels to probe DOJ, China

What is the committee investigating?

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., nominates Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., for a 13th round of voting in the House chamber to elect a speaker and convene the 118th Congress in Washington Friday, Jan. 6, 2023.

Republicans are using their majority in the House to investigate the president through the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability which launched the Biden family investigation earlier this year.

The probe will focus on the business dealings of the president's family members and associates, including those of his son Hunter Biden, a frequent target for investigations among the GOP.

Comer earlier this month requested additional documents related to communications with intelligence agencies, travel and financial records from from Hunter Biden, Biden's brother and their business associate.

Hunter Biden

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: House Republicans seek Treasury testimony in Biden investigation
A bill that would allow the president to ban TikTok will be marked up by the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.

The committee will debate the proposal Tuesday afternoon, following a separately scheduled hearing about combatting Chinese aggression in the tech and economic sector.

The proposed bill, the latest to hit Congress with the goal of banning TikTok, was introduced by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) last week. It follows a Republican bicameral bill to ban TikTok introduced last month by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.).

McCauls proposal, the Deterring Americas Technological Adversaries Act, would adjust the Berman amendments, according to a GOP aide.

The amendments are a more than three-decades old exception to the International Emergency Powers Act. That limits the presidents authority to regulate informational materials under the act and aims to promote the free exchange of ideas across nations.

McCauls bill seeks to clarify the exemption so that it does not apply to sensitive personal data, making software applications like TikTok, owned by Chinese-based ByteDance, potentially eligible to be banned.

News of the scheduled mark up was first reported by Punchbowl News reporter John Bresnahan on Twitter.

My bill empowers the administration to ban TikTok or any software applications that threaten U.S. national security. And make no mistake  TikTok is a security threat, McCaul said in a statement. Anyone with TikTok downloaded on their device has given the CCP a backdoor to all their personal information. Its a spy balloon into your phone.

Some members oppose this version of a TikTok ban

In a statement tweeted by Bresnahan, a Democratic spokesperson said House Foreign Affairs Committee ranking member Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) is opposed to the bill.

Ranking Member Meeks is willing to work in a bipartisan way to address cybersecurity threats posed by Chinese firms under the influence of the PRC and is continuing to negotiate with Chairman McCaul at this very minute, the spokesperson said. Unfortunately, Mr. McCauls hastily introduced legislation would result in sanctions on companies allied in countries in Europe and Asia.

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The spokesperson added that Meeks would like to see what comes from the administrations Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) review before taking the unprecedented step of banning an app used by more than 100 million Americans.

President Joe Biden ordered CFIUS to review TikTok in June 2021, after he withdrew executive orders issued under former President Trump to ban downloads of the app in the U.S. Few details have emerged about the administrations review in the time since.

TikTok spokesperson Brooke Oberwetter said it would be unfortunate if the committee were to censor millions of Americans based on a basic misunderstanding of our corporate structure.

TikTok Inc. is a U.S. company bound by U.S. law, and we are two years and $1.5 billion dollars deep into a project to go above and beyond existing law to secure the U.S. version of the TikTok platform. The swiftest and most thorough way to address national security concerns is for CFIUS to adopt the proposed agreement that we worked with them on for nearly two years, Oberwetter said.

TikTok has said it is not a national security threat

Oberwetter has previously pushed back on allegations that TikTok poses a national security threat, which is the basis of the GOP push to ban the app nationwide.

In a statement to The Hill earlier this month, based on Hawley and Bucks bill, she said TikToks policy clearly states [that] we collect keystroke patterns or rhythms. This is not the same as collecting the content of keystrokes.

That data is used to help TikTok detect spam and bots, and to assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and monitoring for proper performance, she said.

We understand that there are concerns about TikTok. That is [why] we have been working with [The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States] CFIUS for over two years on a plan to address those concerns in the U.S., Oberwetter said in an email.

Hawley successfully made a push to get a ban on TikTok on government devices added to a government funding package at the end of last year. It was later signed into law by Biden.

The efforts to pass an overarching ban on the app, though, faces a tougher battle.

Updated at 7:55 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(Bloomberg) -- House Republicans are demanding a US Treasury Department official testify about the agencys delay in providing documents about President Joe Bidens family, weeks after an initial request for the materials.

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Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer invited deputy assistant Treasury Secretary Isabella More to appear on March 10 to discuss justifications for not providing suspicious activity reports on foreign banking and other business transactions by Hunter Biden and Biden family members.

Comer wants the reports  which are used by banks to flag what they deem dubiously large transactions  as part of his panels probes into the familys overseas dealings. The investigation is just one of the multiple inquiries into the Bidens that Republicans have launched, or are planning, since the party gained a majority in the House in January.

In an interim report released in November, Comer and other Republicans cited media reports that Treasury had at least 150 Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) related to Biden family members financial transactions.

In a Jan. 11 letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Comer requested all suspicious activity reports generated in connection to Hunter Biden, the presidents younger brother James Biden and his wife Sara, as well as associates of Hunter Biden.

The department has so far refused to turn over any such reports. Earlier this month, Jonathan Davidson, Treasurys legislative affairs chief, told Comer in a letter that he needs more details about why the panel is seeking such highly sensitive information.

Without acknowledging whether such reports on the Bidens exist, Davidson instructed Comer that improper disclosure of such information can undermine the executive branchs conduct of law enforcement, intelligence, and national security activities.

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Comers letter to More mentions that she emailed a similar message to his committee staff on Feb. 23 stating, Treasury must confer with law enforcement partners, who may identify particular law enforcement conflicts or sensitivities ... [T]his entire process takes considerable time to complete.

But Comer responds in his letter, noting that, Treasurys excuses and delay tactics are unavailing given you have known about our request since last year and previously produced relevant SARs to others.

The White House declined to comment on Comers letter.

(Updated with background in 8th and 9th paragraphs)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles following a rare snow storm, Feb. 26. (Mike Blake/Reuters)

SAN FRANCISCO  In the midst of a two-decades-long megadrought that climate scientists say has been made worse because of rising global temperatures, California has been hit with an especially cold and wet winter, in which low temperature records have been set and the Sierra snowpack is poised to eclipse its all-time high.

But the whiplash from one extreme to another is consistent with climate change, experts say. Since the start of the Industrial Revolution, Californias average temperatures have risen between 2-4 degrees Fahrenheit, and the dramatic variability seen in recent years is a consequence of that fact.

A lot of folks are saying, Everything is getting more extreme, its wetter and drier and hotter and colder. One of those isnt true, UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain told Yahoo News. Three out of the four are in California. The one thing that isnt happening is its not getting colder.

Swain, whose blog, Weather West, documents Californias changing climate, noted that while many records have been set this year for the lowest high temperatures ever recorded on a given calendar day, that number pales in comparison to the number of daily heat records.

Weve broken dozens of daily cold records across the state in this event and this winter. Just in the last two years, weve broken hundreds, if not thousands, of the equivalent hot records in California, Swain said. You will continue to experience cold extremes even in a warming climate, but theres so much evidence that were seeing far more of the record warm events than we are the record cold. Weve quantified this on a U.S.-wide basis, its about a 3:1 ratio. In a stable climate, youd expect it to be about 1:1.

Heavy traffic in San Francisco as rainstorms approach. (Carlos Barria/Reuters)

So, while some parts of Southern California saw rare blizzard conditions last week, and snow fell at unusually low elevations in places like the Bay Area, those events in no way disprove climate change, which is measured over a longer time horizon than a single week, month or season. Nor do the brutal cold snaps show that climate change is simultaneously causing the world to undergo cooling.

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What is happening, Swain explained, is that rising temperatures have increased the amount of moisture that can be held by the Earths atmosphere, resulting in the kinds of extremes being felt in California. Under what is known as the Clausius-Clapeyron equation, for every degree Celsius of temperature rise  global average temperatures have risen roughly 1.1 C since mid-19th century  the atmosphere holds 7% more moisture. That dramatically increases the chances for extreme precipitation events, but it also means that, due to increased evaporation rates, the risk of droughts also rises.

When it rains, its increasingly likely to pour, just because of basic thermodynamics, and when its not raining, when its sunny and hot  and, of course, increasingly hot due to climate change  its going to be easier to evaporate that water back into the atmosphere, leading to more arid conditions during that period, more rapidly intensifying droughts, Swain said.

The Los Angeles River during a rare winter storm, Feb. 24. (Aude Guerrucci/Reuters)

For California, climate scientists like Swain believe that the state's extreme weather of late is a manifestation of the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.

Weve seen two historically severe droughts in the past decade in California, both of which were probably comparable in magnitude to each other, but individually were the worst droughts in the modern instrumental record going back to the 1800s, Swain said. "But this is also the same decade where weve had the wettest winter on record in much of Northern California, the wettest individual days on record in places like Sacramento and now Fresno and any number of cities and smaller places. A lot of Northern and central California, the single wettest day in the last 100 or 150 years has been within the last five or six years, in the same period when you had this historically severe, multiyear drought.

In his acclaimed 2014 reboot of Carl Sagans Cosmos, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson laid out the prevailing scientific distinction between weather from climate, making the case that chaotic weather fluctuations were different from climate.

Since then, however, more data has emerged to link extreme weather events and climate change.

"We got a lot of blow-back five or 10 years ago when we first started talking about this because the evidence was not really there yet, but we were arguing, Wait, we dont have enough data yet, just wait a long enough period of time where this has been evolving for us to really see it in the real world, Swain said. Now we have another decade of data and it has been a decade of exactly the kinds of extremes weve been talking about.

To try to explain how the buildup of greenhouse gases have altered the climate, Swain used a metaphor of a giant sponge to describe the Earths atmosphere.

A sponge works two ways: You can soak a bunch of water up that you spill on the counter and you can also wring out a lot of water out of a sponge, he said. For progressively larger sponges, you can soak up progressively more water and also wring out progressively more water.

What that means for California in the years to come, he added, is more wet wets and more dry drys.
Viktor Orban

Orban claims that he was concerned how the whole of Europe is slipping into the war, step by step. He believes that as European countries are handing over tanks to Ukraine and discussing fighter jet transfers, there may be those who want to send troops to Ukraine.

"We also consider China's 'peace plan' important and we support it," Orban said.

Read also: Hungarian leader Orban accuses Germany of heading war camp

China released a 12-point position paper on Feb. 24, in which it calls for a political settlement to the conflict and called for a resumption of peace talks, an end to unilateral sanctions, and stressed its opposition to the use of nuclear weapons.

At the same time, nowhere in the paper does China condemn Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, or Russian war crimes.

Read also: Ukraine waiting for full text of proposed Chinese peace plan, says FM Kuleba

U.S. President Joe Biden rejected Chinas "peace plan", saying that it's only beneficial to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy considers it positive that Beijing started talking about Ukraine, but he didnt agree with some points of the document.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The cost of implementing a bill that seeks to make the firing squad Idahos backup execution method has more than doubled since it was last reviewed by the state prisons system, according to a spokesperson for the agency.

The Idaho Department of Corrections initial estimate to build out the venue for such an execution, as an alternative to lethal injection, is $750,000, spokesperson Jeff Ray told the Idaho Statesman. In 2014, when the department last considered the firing squad, costs were expected to reach at least $300,000, which IDOC determined would take too much time and money in choosing not to go forward with the plan, Ray said at the time.

Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, last week proposed the bill to use a firing squad as the states reserve execution method. Idaho previously offered it as an alternative to lethal injection, but removed death by firing squad in 2009 as the controversial method went unused.

Skaug, a former Ada County deputy prosecutor, last year indicated lawmakers would bring forth the legislation if execution drugs continued to elude the state. The House committee that Skaug chairs will need to approve the bill before it heads to the House floor for a vote.

This is a rule of law issue: Our criminal system should work, and our penalties should be exacted, Skaug told a legislative committee ahead of its approval. When promised and deserved, the death penalty should be duly invoked.

Idaho last executed an inmate in 2012. The states death row currently houses eight residents.

In November, prison officials postponed the execution of longtime inmate Gerald Pizzuto after they proved unable to acquire lethal injection drugs for his scheduled execution. As a result, a de facto moratorium on capital punishment remains in place, IDOC spokesperson Jeff Ray told the Statesman last week.

Nonetheless, Attorney General Raul Labrador on Friday announced the latest attempt to execute Pizzuto, obtaining the third death warrant in two years for the man convicted in 1986 of a double-murder. Idahos prison system once again is trying to find the drugs to perform Pizzutos lethal injection, IDOC said following Labradors action.

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Whether prison officials will succeed this time around is unclear.

Rep. Bruce Skaug, R-Nampa, left, speaks with and Rep. Ben Adams, R-Nampa, during the 2022 House session.

Skaug said during a committee meeting he thinks a firing squad is more humane than lethal injection, which, he noted, has a history of botched executions. Other states have in recent years added the firing squad as an option, as lethal injection drugs have increasingly become difficult to obtain, Skaug said.

Of the 24 U.S. states that maintain active capital punishment, four have the firing squad as a backup execution method: Oklahoma, Utah, Mississippi and South Carolina. Idaho could become the fifth, but not without possible legal challenges.

South Carolina was the last state to approve a firing squad, in 2021. The states supreme court heard arguments last month over the legality of the execution method after a lower court ruled it  and the electric chair  as unconstitutional. The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits cruel and unusual punishment.

Utah was last in the U.S. to execute an inmate by firing squad, in 2010.

Little: Havent given up on lethal injection

Idahos prison system considered asking state lawmakers in 2014 to reinstate the firing squad as an alternative, the Spokesman-Review reported at the time. The concept never moved forward because of its expected costs.

Skaugs bill came as news to IDOC earlier this month, Ray said by email. The department was not involved in its development, he said.

We are working to refine that estimate as quickly as possible, Ray said, adding that Skaug was informed of the cost the day before he introduced the bill. Skaug did not return the Statesmans requests for comment.

Last year, Department of Correction Director Josh Tewalt testified on behalf of a different bill, which later became law, that sought to conceal identifying details of execution drug suppliers to help state prison officials carry out lethal injections. While doing so, Tewalt advocated against restoring the firing squad.

I dont think you could expect fewer legal challenges to a firing squad, Tewalt said last February before a House committee. And more importantly, I dont feel, as the director of the Idaho Department of Correction, the compulsion to ask my staff to do that.

If the Legislature passed the newly proposed bill concerning executions, Republican Gov. Brad Little said he would consider signing it into law.

I think its only in lieu of our current system not working, and I havent given up on our current system, Little told the Statesman on Friday at a press event. Im a proponent for capital punishment, but we need to do it in the most dignified and humane manner that creates the least amount of stress for corrections officers.

Attorney General Raul Labrador waves to the crowd after being sworn into office by Idaho Chief Justice G. Richard Bevan on the steps of the Idaho Capitol in January.

Labrador, a former Idaho Republican congressman, is at least part of the push behind passing the firing squad bill. He was personally involved in co-authoring Skaugs proposal, a spokesperson for the attorney generals office told the Statesman, declining further comment. Labrador declined a request for an interview.

Voters elected Labrador, an immigration attorney, as Idahos next attorney general in the November general election. Before taking over his new position, Labrador worked at Skaugs private law practice for about three years, according to Labradors LinkedIn page.

Last week, Labrador went to bat for the firing squad bill in the news release announcing Pizzutos latest death warrant. Pizzuto, 66, is terminally ill and been under hospice care for more than three years.

We understand IDOC is working hard to acquire the chemicals necessary to fulfill this death warrant, Labrador said in a statement. We hope the legislature will also consider giving the state an alternative method of execution.

In response, Pizzutos attorneys with the nonprofit Federal Defender Services of Idaho questioned the timing of their clients death warrant, calling it particularly curious in light of Skaugs bill.

Reporter Ryan Suppe contributed.
Xena Stryker left corporate America to start her own architecture design and marketing firm. Xena Stryker

Xena Stryker left corporate America several years ago after feeling discriminated against.

She now runs her own architecture-consulting firm and feels in control of her life.

She recommends other women seek mentorship before they launch their own companies.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Xena Stryker, 35, an architectural designer who previously worked in corporate America, about why she decided to start her own firm. The company, Xena Design + Marketing Firm, has offices in Atlanta and Beverly Hills, California. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

At a previous job, I was the only Black woman at an architectural firm with hundreds of designers. By the way things looked at the office, you'd think it was 1950.

It often felt like the other designers would stare at me, like they were examining my hair, my clothes, or the way I spoke. Many made comments about my expensive car. They wanted to know where I came from. I was asked dozens of times what an HBCU was  a historically Black college and university  and why don't we just quote integrate. I wanted them to leave me alone so I could simply do my work.

When big clients came to visit, higher-ups suddenly placed me out on display as a show of staff diversity. But once the guests left, they put me back into my cubicle. I felt like I was the Raggedy Ann doll of the office. I'd be pulled back out and put on display during the firm's holiday party as, once again, a showcase of the firm's so-called diversity.

I was tired of feeling like a prop for diversity

I felt management constantly gave me the most difficult architectural-design tasks. As one principal told me, he was testing me. I complained to HR, but didn't feel that they listened to me.

I asked a manager, a white woman, if we could host a job-shadowing day for my sorority's teenage mentees. She asked me if the girls had ever gone on a field trip before, and if they'd know how to act, because they may be coming to party. I have no clue why she believed high-school honor students hadn't been on a field trip since kindergarten. The job-shadow day never happened. It was just one of many racially charged microaggressions thrown my way.

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If this was corporate America, I wanted out.

Several months before I quit, I launched a secret acting and voice-over career, working on shows like "P-Valley" on Starz. When the day came several years ago, I used all the money I had saved up from my acting gig, cracked open my retirement fund, and left.

I started my own company, Xena Design + Marketing Firm, and life is phenomenal right now.

Many of my clients tell me that other, traditional firms feel condescending, racist, and out of touch. Considering that I've worked in these environments, I get it. My firm provides a safe haven. We hold our interviews while eating ice cream in Downtown Atlanta or while riding the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel. My firm takes on fun projects from clients, such as The Atlanta Airport, Live Nation, BET, and some celebrities. It's incredibly exciting.

I launched my own firm, and here's my advice

Having a mentor is so important. And professional networks are going to become your best friend. I graduated from Project Reap through the Urban Land Institute. The program bridges the gap between talented minority professionals and commercial real-estate companies. The Urban Land Institute's Los Angeles branch paired me with an amazing mentor since I've relocated to Beverly Hills. I get brunch with my mentor, look up at the palm trees, and it all feels so surreal. She's there for any questions I may have  business or personal.

Mentors help you navigate so much. Professional organizations provide high-end networking that may lead to clients, and they provide continuing-education courses that can be more beneficial than earning a college degree.

If you're in a similar position as I was previously in corporate America, my advice is: dream big, determine your unique selling point, find a supportive dream team, and get out.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Natalia Humeniuk

"Russian troops landing in Transnistria isn't possible by definition as they need to cross either NATO or Ukrainian airspace; no one would allow it," Humeniuk said.

She added that occupying Russian troops in Transnistria, which Moscow promised to withdraw back in 1999, are "deeply surprised with the narrative about their power spread by Russian propaganda."

Read also: Zelenskyy announced Ukraine's readiness to help Moldova with Transnistria

She said a strong response is waiting for the Russians if they try to advance towards Moldova.

On Feb. 9, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the Ukrainian intelligence revealed Russian plans to destabilize the political situation in Moldova.

On Feb. 20 Zelenskyy asserted that Moscow was considering a coup d'etat in Moldova by seizing an airfield in the capital of Chisinau and then transferring its troops there. Later, Moldovan PM Dorin Recean confirmed the report. He also called for Transnistrias demilitarization and expulsion of Russian troops from the region.

Read also: Russia planning coup detat in Moldova, says Sandu

The head of Moldova's Security Service, Alexandru Musteata, said Russia might launch an offensive against Moldova early in 2023. The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs also said that the Kremlin "has plans on" Poland, Baltic countries, and Moldova, but won't be able to realize them soon.

Read also: Rumors of Ukrainian intervention in Transnistria sow panic in Russian social media

Moldova was the first country where Russia imposed a separatist movement after the collapse of the Soviet Union. A bloody conflict lasted for several months in 1992, then it was frozen with about 2,000 of Russian troops still located in Transnistria.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on September 16, 2022. Sergey Bobylev/Reuters

India asked G20 members not to label Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a "war" in meetings last week.

But India appears to have failed its mission, after a joint press release called the attack "a war."

India has not imposed sanctions on Russia and is still buying Russian oil.

India appears to have failed in its mission to stop G20 countries from calling Russia's invasion of Ukraine a "war."

While hosting financial ministers of the Group of 20 in Bengaluru last week, Indian delegates tried to get members to call the Ukraine war a "challenge" or a "crisis" instead, multiple reports said.

Russia, which is a member of the G20 and sent a delegation to the meetings, has previously discouraged the use of the word "war" to refer to its military action in Ukraine. To sway public opinion, the country has been calling the war in Ukraine a "special military operation."

However, a press release published jointly by the G20 countries on Saturday describes the attack on Ukraine as "a war."

"Most members strongly condemned the war in Ukraine and stressed that it is causing immense human suffering and exacerbating existing fragilities in the global economy," the summary says.

As the war in Ukraine enters its second year, India refuses to assign blame for the violence and has solidified ties with Russia.

It is still economically supporting the country, has refused to impose any sanctions, and is buying Russian oil and natural gas. In September last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and called their countries' friendship "unbreakable."

According to a Reuters report published last week, an Indian official at the summit said that the country "is not keen to discuss or back any additional sanctions on Russia during the G20."

"The existing sanctions on Russia have had a negative impact on the world," the official, who was not named, told Reuters.

Read the original article on Business Insider
(Bloomberg) -- Indias top investigating agency arrested a senior minister from the party that governs the capital Delhi, which may dent the groups aspirations of challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi in next years national elections.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Late Sunday, the Central Bureau of Investigation arrested Manish Sisodia, Delhis deputy chief minister and a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, over allegations of irregularities in the framing and implementing of a new liquor sales policy, the agency said in a statement.

The Aam Aadmi Party has accused Modis Bharatiya Janata Party of conducting a witch hunt against its leaders and called Sisodias arrest an attempt to tarnish the party and its popular leader Arvind Kejriwal, Delhis chief minister.

Sisodia is likely the only education minister in the world who is involved in a liquor scam, Sambit Patra, a spokesperson for the BJP, told reporters after the arrest.

Sisodia and his party have denied any wrongdoing. This is second arrest of a senior AAP leader by federal investigating agencies in recent months. In May, Delhis Health Minister Satyendar Jain was arrested on allegations of money laundering.

The Aam Aadmi Party, which grew out of an anti-corruption movement a decade ago, also governs the northern state of Punjab. It is trying to make inroads into more states. Its leader Kejriwal, is viewed as having national political ambitions.

The AAP defeated Modis party in local civic polls late last year in a hotly contested ballot. Before that defeat the BJP had controlled the Municipal Corporation of Delhi  one of the largest local councils in the world, serving about 16 million residents  for more than a decade.

Story continues

The victory allowed the AAP to solidify its hold over the Indian capital ahead of the Group of 20 meetings this year.

(Updates with details.)

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Update: Curtis Walker pleaded guilty to aggravated battery when the assault poses a substantial risk of death as part of an agreement with prosecutors. He was sentenced to nine years in the Indiana Department of Corrections, with six years of the sentence suspended on Feb. 21, 2023.

Indianapolis police say a 35-year-old man armed with a knife charged an officer responding to a disturbance Monday morning in an east side home before he was shot by police in an incident that lasted fewer than 10 minutes.

Before 5 a.m. Monday, dispatchers told police that Curtis Walker could be heard threatening to kill a woman while on the line with the person who dialed 911, according to new details released by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

Officers responded to the home in the first block of South Colorado Avenue and heard a woman screaming inside. They ordered multiple people inside to leave the house.

Police said when officers went inside, Walker emerged from a room and charged towards one officer with a knife in his hand.

Two officers are believed to have fired multiple shots at Walker, who was taken to Eskenazi Hospital in critical condition. One policeman was hit in his bulletproof vest in the crossfire from another IMPD officer. He was taken to a hospital and since been released.

The other people inside the home were not hurt, police said.

Officers recovered Walkers knife at the scene. He faces preliminary charges of two counts of attempted murder, domestic battery with a deadly weapon and battery with a deadly weapon.

IMPD Chief Randal Taylor said earlier Monday he believes officers responded appropriately.

This is unfortunately another domestic case, Taylor said. Which is unfortunate because weve had a number of those lately.

Multiple officers had activated body-worn cameras at the time.

IMPDs Critical Incident Response Team and Internal Affairs are investigating the incident.

The officers who fired their guns are on administrative leave, per standard procedure in police shooting investigations.

Story continues

The search for witnesses and evidence in the incident continues, IMPD said. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 317-262-TIPS.

Contact Sarah Nelson at sarah.nelson@indystar.com or 317-503-7514.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indianapolis police: Update of shooting by officer of man with knife
Kids in the U.S. and around the world are in crisis.

More than 60% of children with depression don't get any mental health treatment, according to Mental Health America. Pair that statistic with the fact that about 80% of the United States has a severe shortage of child psychiatrists, and the picture becomes clear: there is a growing mental health crisis in the United States and beyond.

That's why CBS News and local CBS-owned television stations spent more than six months exploring the sources of the problem, as well as solutions across the country that could address it. This is a collection of the reporting by CBS journalists, committed to the well-being of our kids.

Documenting kids' personal struggles

"Bring darkness into the light," said filmmaker Noemi Weis.

That's the goal of her documentary, "Connecting the Dots," which features young people from around the world candidly talking about their struggles with mental health and the need to be supported.

"We need to listen in a way that is with open eyes and with providing a safe space, providing no judgment," Weis told CBS News. "As much as we believe that we are in a world where we are all connected, the disconnect is huge. The isolation, the loneliness needed to be addressed."

CBS News licensed the documentary for an exclusive release nationwide on its streaming platforms. That occurred on Wednesday night, March 1. The film is now available on demand at the top of this page.

The filmmaker created facilitator guides, in partnership with UNICEF, for youth, parents, educators, mental health professionals, and others to watch the documentary and discuss it.

Seeking mental health help

If you or someone you know is in crisis, get help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

In addition, help is available from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI. Call the NAMI Helpline at 800-950-6264 or text "HelpLine" to 62640. There are more than 600 local NAMI organizations and affiliates across the country, many of which offer free support and education programs.

Story continues

Read more from CBS News and local stations

CBS News will continue to update this page as we publish more stories about youth mental health in the coming days.

As climate changes, climate anxiety rises in youth

Research shows most youth are "extremely worried" about climate change. Kids and young adults who struggle with climate anxiety can perceive they have no future or that humanity is doomed. Read more

To address lack of youth mental health services, one school district tries a radical new solution

Amid the growing crisis in youth mental health services, Cherry Creek School District in Greenwood Village, Colorado, is trying something new: constructing a new building that will be part mental health medical facility, part school. Read more

Children languish in emergency rooms awaiting mental health care

Fearing Daniel might harm himself, his parents took him to the only place they could: the emergency room. After seven days in the ER, Daniel was discharged; hospital staff felt he was no longer in danger. His parents disagreed. Read more

Teens turning to TikTok for mental health advice are self-diagnosing

Young people are increasingly turning to social media platforms like TikTok to diagnose their mental health struggles and often getting misinformation. A California psychology professor has gained a million followers on TikTok by debunking wellness advice that could do more harm than good. Read more

Kids in Crisis: CBS News and Stations address the youth mental health crisis in America

Jamie Howard, senior clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss the youth mental health crisis and shares tips on how parents can have an open conversation with their teens about mental health and social media. Read more

Stanford soccer star's tragic death intensifies attention on mental health



A tragedy in the San Francisco Bay Area was the spark a group of California teens needed to do something about breaking the stigma associated with youth mental illness and how to react in an emotional crisis. Read more

Chicago group brings Mobile Mental Health bus to Black, Latino residents



On a piece of land on Chicago's West Side, the community group BUILD Inc. has done just that. "We've got a whole new building," said David Rodriguez, a BUILD member. "We've got a second floor finally." Read more

Professionals working to address 'crisis in children's mental health'

Alexandra Salerno knows what it is like to be a young performer. She was a professional ballet dancer who saw other dancers and athletes in pursuit of perfection."There's this idea, especially with athletes, that they're not able to take a break. They always have to be on," she said. Read More

America's youth mental health crisis: Peer counseling

Young people faced many emotions during the pandemic, with many experiencing feelings of persistent sadness and hopelessness. Some teens have stepped up to help each other through peer counseling. Read more

Group teaches teens mindful meditation to improve mental



On a recent Thursday morning at Lindsey Hopkins Technical college where kids in a program to get them back on track with their schooling sat in a circle, Ruban Roberts was leading a session of his "teen talks." Teen Talks was started 14 years ago and is a way to connect youth in underserved communities with police agencies so each can see the humanity in the other. Read more

Gary Rossington, last original member of Lynyrd Skynrd, dies at 71

FBI investigating suspicious cruise ship death

California governor says state won't do business with Walgreens over abortion pill decision
Russia has not given up on the idea of destroying Ukraine's energy infrastructure, Ukrainian Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate reported on Feb. 27.

Besides the electricity grid, Moscow wants to wreck the country's fuel and energy complex "to stop the supply of petroleum products," the intelligence directorate wrote.

Russia has repeatedly been targeting energy infrastructure with missile and drone attacks since October, killing dozens of people and severely damaging the country's energy system.

In late February, however, the situation with Ukraine's energy infrastructure became more stable, reported state-owned power grid operator Ukrenergo.

In the same report, the intelligence directorate cited its spokesperson Andrii Cherniak who told RBC-Ukraine that Russia was trying to change the tactics of missile attacks on Ukraine.

"Ninety-five percent of Russia's ground troops in one way or another participate in the aggression against Ukraine  they have nothing and no one to fight. Therefore, the Russians decided to increase their offensive potential by using aviation," Cherniak added.

Moscow has less than 100 high-precision cruise missiles left, which are most often used in attacks on critical infrastructure  Kalibr, Kh-101, and Kh-555, according to the intelligence directorate and Ukrainian Defense Ministry.

Russia has thousands of other missiles left, according to the report. However, Russia's production volumes are not keeping up with the pace at which it was using the missiles until mid-February, reads the report.

"They can now produce no more than 30-40 rockets per month. Those old missiles they have in service either do not reach the targets due to a malfunction or have a limited radius of attack," added Cherniak.

Russian state arms conglomerate Rostec said on Feb. 19 that it was scaling up the production of Kinzhal hypersonic ballistic missiles for the Russian Defense Ministry.


The European Commission and Poland on Feb. 27 announced a joint initiative to find Ukrainian children illegally taken by the Russian army from occupied territories.

"Since the start of the invasion, it is estimated that Russian forces have sent thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia. The abduction of Ukrainian children is a great social problem, a tragedy, and a crime," said Dana Spinant, deputy chief spokeswoman for the European Commission.

The initiative, which has the support of the United Nations, aims to collect evidence that will help them track down where in Russia these Ukrainian children were brought and to bring charges against those who abducted them.

On Feb. 22, Ukrainian children were forced to take part in Russian dictator Vladimir Putin's propaganda concert in Moscow.

Independent Russian media outlet Important Stories reported that two of the children were from Mariupol. Their mother was killed by Russian shelling at the start of the war.

Children of War, a website created by the Ukrainian government, estimates that 16,221 children have been abducted by Russia since the start of the full-scale invasion.






Serhiy Panasiuk

Corporal Serhiy Panasiuk, 33, was killed early in the morning under yet to be identified circumstances, the spokesperson said. He was interred in the village of Siltse in Ratne District on Feb. 26.

"An investigation is being carried out by police, while an internal investigation is also being conducted by the relevant units of the brigade," Khominskyi said.

Maryna Baldych, an inspector of the Communication Department of the National Police in Volyn Oblast, said that the death of the soldier was registered in the Unified Register of Pretrial Investigations (URPI) under the article on premeditated murder.

"It's clear that the shooting was performed not from the Belarusian side, she stated.Further details will be identified during the ongoing pretrial investigation.

Panasiuk was a veteran of the Ukrainian defense in Donbas. He joined the ranks of the Volyn Territorial Defense in the very first days of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He was a commander of a rifle platoon. He is survived by two children.

Earlier, reports appeared on social media about a shooting near the Ukrainian-Belarusian border. The Belarusian Border Committee denied this information, claiming no incidents with using weapons occurred and border patrols haven't opened fire.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
BAGHDAD (AP)  Nearly 20 years after the overthrow of Saddam Hussein by U.S.-led forces, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid wants the world to know his country now is at peace, democratic and intent on rebuilding economic life while maintaining a government that serves the whole country and the region.

Rashid told The Associated Press on Sunday that after overcoming the hardships of the past two decades, Iraq is ready to focus on improving everyday life for its people. Those hardships included years of resistance to foreign troops, violence between Sunnis and Shiites, and attacks by Islamic State group extremists who once controlled large areas, including Iraq's second-largest city, Mosul.

Peace and security is all over the country, and I would be very glad if you will report that and emphasize on that, instead of giving a picture of Iraq ... still (as) a war zone, which a lot of media still do, Rashid said.

While Iraq's major fighting has ended, there have been some recent outbreaks of violence  including on the day of Rashid's election, which came after a yearlong stalemate following the October 2021 election. Ahead of the vote, at least nine rockets targeted Iraqs Parliament inside Baghdad's fortified Green Zone.

After Rashid's election, he nominated Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, who formed a government with the backing of a coalition of Iran-backed parties and with promises of improving security and public services.

Despite its oil wealth, Iraq's infrastructure remains weak. Private generators fill in for the hours of daily state electricity cuts. Long-promised public transportation projects, including a Baghdad metro, have not come to fruition.

Rashid said this is due to damage as a result of conflicts and as a result of terror, as a result of a number of years living at war.

Government critics say the sputtering electricity supply is also a result of endemic corruption, rooted in the countrys sectarian power-sharing system that allows political elites to use patronage networks to consolidate power.

Story continues

Rashid, who spoke at his presidential quarters in Saddam's former palace, also asserted that most Iraqis believe the 2003 invasion of Saddam-ruled Iraq by the United States and its allies was necessary because of the former dictator's brutality.

He said he believes most Iraqis, including all sections of the society, the Kurds, the Sunni, the Christian, the Shiites, they were all against" Saddam and appreciate that the U.S. and its allies came to save Iraq.

Obviously certain things did not work out as we hoped. Nobody expected Daesh (the Islamic State group) and nobody expected car bombs," he said. "It should have been controlled right from the beginning. It should have been studied and planned out right from the beginning. I think the myth was that once Saddam is removed, Iraq becomes heaven.

The reality proved more difficult, he said, but it hasn't weakened Iraq's commitment to democracy.

Even if you have conflicts and if we have arguments, its much better to have a freedom and democracy rather than a dictatorship, he said.

However, mass anti-government demonstrations that kicked off in late 2019 were often put down by force. Hundreds of protesters were killed by security forces and state-backed armed groups.

Rashid acknowledged there are still conflicts, but urged Iraqis, particularly the younger generation, to be patient and have faith in the future. We dont have much choice but to live together ... and let our democratic election take place to represent our values," said Rashid, a veteran Kurdish politician and former water minister after Saddam's ouster.

Rashid assumed the presidency in October. Under Iraq's unofficial power-sharing arrangement, the country's president is always a Kurd, the prime minister a Shiite and the parliament speaker a Sunni.

Rashid's job entails helping to maintain a delicate balance among Iraq's various centers of political power and even-keel relations with both the U.S. and Iran, the government's two key  and often opposing  international backers.

The balancing act is reflected in a monument near Baghdad airport. It extolls Irans Revolutionary Guard commander Qassem Soleimani, who was targeted and killed in a 2020 U.S. airstrike.

Improving relations with neighbors including Iran, Syria, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Jordan is a source of strength for Iraq, Rashid said. Arab countries led by Saudi Arabia had for years kept a distance from Iraq, partly because of its ties to Iran.

He noted with pride that Iraq hosted a Mideast meeting of senior Arab lawmakers on Saturday and expressed the country's willingness to continue serving as a mediator in now-stalled talks between regional rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Rashid also promised to take a hard line on corruption.

In October, reports emerged that over $2.5 billion in Iraqi government revenue was embezzled by a network of businesses and officials from the countrys tax authority. And in recent months, amid allegations of widespread money laundering used to smuggle dollars to U.S.-sanctioned Iran and Syria, the U.S. has taken measures to tighten Iraq's dollar supply, putting pressure on the currency.

I admit, we did have and we still have some problems with corruption, but the government is very serious (about fighting it), Rashid said, adding that the government and the central bank are taking measures to regulate transfers out of the country to deter money laundering.

Economically, he said, Iraq is focusing on rebuilding industry and agriculture damaged by years of conflict, and developing its natural gas reserves so as not to be dependent on buying gas from neighboring countries  notably Iran.

Despite the currency's devaluation and inflation in recent months, Iraq's prospects are good, he said, buoyed by strong oil production and high global oil prices.

Iraq economically is in a sound position and probably is one of the countries in the world which (does not have) a deficit in our budget, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Qassim Abdul-Zahra in Baghdad contributed to this report.
The Russian occupiers

The wives of the Russian invaders reportedly sent the appeal to the editors of the publication, as well as Russias Chief Military Prosecutors Office.

Read also: Russian invaders send 150 collaborators from occupied Mariupol to front, says mayoral advisor

When we are unable to carry out the order, we receive threats of reprisals, the conscripts said in the appeal.

Example: You will be prosecuted for desertion, you will have trouble with the commandants office and the military police, we will disband you two people at a time and send you on an offensive from which you will not return.

Read also: Ex-mayor of Irkutsk assigned as new head of occupation authority in Mariupol

The appeal states that the regiment commander tried to explain to the command that yesterdays drivers, welders, furniture makers and metal welders cannot belong to the elite unit of stormtroopers and do not have the skills for it.

According to the Russian invaders, after that, the commander has been detained, stripped off of his weapon, and taken to an unknown direction. Currently, nothing is known about his whereabouts.

This is already the third such appeal of conscripts from Irkutsk to Putin. Earlier, they complained that they were being trained for service in their local territorial defense units, but then they were formed into a unit of attack aircraft, even though they do not have the appropriate training.

They also stated that they were handed over to a Donetsk puppet authority militia, where in one day, they were formed into assault units and sent to storm the Avdiivka military district without any support.

About 560 Russian invaders were destroyed in Ukraine in the last 24 hours. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the Russian Federation has lost almost 150,000 of its soldiers.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Trans woman Isla Bryson has been jailed for eight years for raping two women before she transitioned. (PA)

Scottish transgender rapist Isla Bryson has been jailed for eight years for attacking two women, as a judge warned she was a high risk of reoffending.

Isla Bryson, 31, was told by judge Lord Scott: "You are not at the stage of accepting what you did or acknowledging the serious harm you inflicted on two women"

Bryson was convicted last month of raping two women  one in Clydebank in 2016 and one in Drumchapel, Glasgow, in 2019  and committed the offences while a man known as Adam Graham.

Bryson met both the victims online, with prosecutors saying the 31-year-old preyed on vulnerable women.

Bryson was sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh on Tuesday to eight years in prison, with a further three years on licence in which she will be supervised after her release.

Bryson has also been placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Following her conviction, Bryson was moved from a female to a male prison after a public outcry.

Isla Bryson sits in the back of a prison van leaving Edinburgh High Court after she was jailed for eight years on Tuesday. (PA)

Bryson, from Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, committed the crimes before she self-identified as female and was known at the time as Adam Graham.

During sentencing, judge Lord Scott said Bryson continues to vehemently deny the offences.

The court heard Bryson is still pursuing full gender reassignment and is currently on the maximum recommended doses of hormone prescription from the Sandyford clinic in Glasgow.

Lord Scott told Bryson: You see yourself as the victim in this situation. You are not.

Your vulnerability is no excuse at all for what you did to these two women. You raped two women who can both be regarded as vulnerable.

Lord Scott said Bryson was preying on these two women because of their vulnerability and raped them in their own homes where they were entitled to feel safe.

He said the rapist has a high risk of reoffending, adding: There will need to be a high level of supervision.

What was Isla Bryson convicted of?

She raped one woman in Clydebank in 2016 and another in Drumchapel, Glasgow, in 2019.

Story continues

During the trial, the High Court in Glasgow heard Bryson was going through the breakdown of a brief, unhappy marriage and went to stay with the first victim at her mothers house in Clydebank in 2016.

Giving evidence on pre-recorded video, the victim, 30, said she was raped for half an hour.

All I said was no over and over and over again, she said.

At the time I was so scared. Sick to the stomach. I just didnt know what was going on.

The second victim, who gave evidence via live video-link, told the court Bryson continued to have sex with her after she said stop.

The victim told the court: I said to stop but he (Bryson) just kept on going, and thats when I just closed my eyes and I am doing what he wanted to do.

Giving evidence during the trial, Bryson claimed both women consented to having sex.

Isla Bryson was moved from Cornton Vale women's prison in Stirling, Scotland, following a public outcry. (Alamy)

Bryson was convicted in late January and was taken to Cornton Vale  Scotlands only all-female prison facility  to be held in segregation to await sentencing.

But following anger from the public and politicians, Bryson was moved to the male estate within days and an urgent review was commissioned by Scottish justice secretary Keith Brown.

Why is the Isla Bryson case so controversial?

Last week, the head of the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) said she is not at liberty to say who made the decision to send Bryson to a womens prison.

The decision was taken by the SPS to take Bryson to Cornton Vale instead of HMP Barlinnie in Glasgow  as was ordered by the judge in the case  while the offender was in transit.

Trans woman Isla Bryson, who has been convicted of raping two women, pictured when she still identified as a man, called Adam Graham. (Reuters)

SPS chief executive Teresa Medhurst said she would not discuss who made the final decision.

That decision, as I said earlier, was taken by headquarters, she said.

When pressed further on who made the decision, she added: Im not at liberty to say."

Earlier this month, Bryson's mother said the 31-year-old rapist had never mentioned wanting to be a girl as a child.

Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon said she believed Isla Bryson was 'almost certainly' faking being trans. (Alamy)

Janet Bryson told the Sunday Mail she was disgusted and heartbroken that her daughter had turned out to be a rapist.

Giving evidence during her trial, Bryson spoke of identifying as transgender at the age of four but not making the decision to transition until the age of 29.

The 31-year-olds mother said her child gave no indication of being transgender while growing up.

Scotland's first minister Nicola Sturgeon, who announced earlier this month that she will stand down once her successor is chosen, said Bryson is "almost certainly" faking being trans.

It emerged that Bryson was enrolled at a college beauty course involving spray tan sessions while facing the rape charges.

Watch: 'Heightened public concern' let to pause in trans prison transfers, says Sturgeon
DAMASCUS, Syria (AP)  Land mines left behind by the Islamic State group in central Syria went off in two different locations on Monday, killing 10 workers as they were collecting truffles in the countryside and wounding 12, state media reported.

According to Syria's state news agency SANA, the two mines exploded east of the central town of Salamiyeh. All the casualties were taken to a hospital in the town, the report added. It wasn't immediately clear what had triggered the explosions.

It is not uncommon for mines left behind years ago, when IS controlled large parts of Syria, to go off inadvertently, usually when stepped on, inflicting casualties.

IS was driven out of all the territory it once held in Syria and neighboring Iraq in 2019, but the extremists left behind countless bombs and booby traps, and large areas have yet to be cleared. The militant groups sleeper cells still carry deadly attacks both in Syria and Iraq.

SANA said the first explosion on Monday killed nine people and wounded two while the second killed one person and wounded 10.

Earlier this month, IS sleeper cells attacked workers collecting truffles near the central town of Sukhna, killing at least 53 people, mostly workers but also some Syrian government security forces.

The truffles are a seasonal delicacy that can be sold for a high price. Since the truffle hunters work in large groups in remote areas, IS militants in previous years have repeatedly preyed on them, emerging from the desert to abduct them, kill some and ransom others for money.
The flag of Israel

Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel Yevheny Korniychuk, said that Ukraine has been publicly asking for the system for six months, which was promised but never arrived. The article notes that the initial deployment of the system will be a pilot project, and "at best will cover a city like Kyiv."

Read also: Israel pledges early air threat warning system for Ukraine

Korniychuk believes that Ukraine can win the war within a few months  if it gets the help it asked for from its Western allies.

We do understand that Israel doesnt have much in stock now, but the war will not to be over, unfortunately, tomorrow, said Korniychuk.

Its a long run, and if we will finally agree and start to receive some Israeli defensive equipment in three months, six months, nine months from now  that is okay.

Read also: Israel to invest in rehabilitation centers in Ukraine  Chief Rabbi of Ukraine

The Times of Israel recalls that Ukraine is asking Israel for deliveries of the Iron Dome and Davids Sling missile defense systems, while Jerusalem is worried about spoiling relations with Russia.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited Ukraine on Feb 16. He was the highest-ranking Israeli government official to visit Ukraine since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The minister visited Bucha and Hostomel, as well as Babi Yar Holocaust Memorial in Kyiv.

Read also: Israeli lawmakers call on Netanyahu to donate anti-missile, anti-drone systems to Ukraine

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu earlier said that the country's government is considering providing Ukraine with "other types of assistance."

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Another arrest has been made in the drive-by December shooting of Prince Holland, a 13-year-old who was leaving football tryouts, Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said Monday.

Kentrevious Tyree Garard is facing second-degree murder, four counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of shooting or throwing deadly missiles, Waters said.

Kentrevious Tyree Garard

Waters was joined by Chief Assistant State Attorney L. E. Hutton and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan in announcing the arrest.

Waters said he couldnt share many details of the investigation because it is still active, but he said Garard was the trigger-puller in this case.

RELATED: Arrest made in murder of Jacksonville 13-year-old Prince Holland, more arrests coming, sheriff says

Although our hearts will always be heavy with grief, we are a community galvanized by hope that the prospect of accountability provides, Waters said.

In January, Waters announced the first arrest in Princes death. Marcel Johnson is also facing second-degree murder, four counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of shooting or throwing deadly missiles.

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When he announced Johnsons arrest, Waters said the shooting was the culmination of escalating violence between two rival street groups.

Waters was asked Monday if any more arrests were expected and he said, Well look and see if theres any more. At this point, were close to the end of it.

Hutton addressed the possibility of first-degree murder charges in the case.

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Theres no question that this was a targeted murder and targeted murder typically equates to first-degree murder, so thats something well be looking at, Hutton said.

In addition to the State Attorneys Office and FBI Jacksonville, Waters also thanked U.S. Marshals Service, the ATF, Florida State Fire Marshal and the Orange County Sheriffs Office.

Garard is currently being held in the Orange County Jail, according to online jail records.

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Tommy Fury and Jake Paul greet one another after the fight (Getty Images)

Jake Paul has vowed to enact his rematch clause with Tommy Fury after losing a split decision in their long-awaited fight in Saudi Arabia.

Fury edged the bout in Riyadhs Diriyah Arena after winning over two of the three judges following a closely fought eight rounds. Both men were docked points during the middle rounds and Paul even managed to earn a knock down in the eighth, but Fury did enough to win on points.

The fight followed two postponements and a lot of trash talk across two and a half years, and Fury was overcome with emotion afterwards as he celebrated his triumph.

Everybody thought I was running scared, he said, referring to the times he had to have the fight rearranged. Tonight, I made my own legacy: I am Tommy Fury. I want to dedicate this fight to my new baby girl Bambi at home, and my Mrs. I love you.

YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul questioned the result and urged Fury to run it again.

All respect to Tommy, he won, the American said. Dont judge me by my wins, judge me by my losses.

I dont know if I agree with the judges  I got a 10-8 round twice. But Ive already won in life. Ive made it further than I ever thought I would, and beyond. This is definitely a humbling experience.

Paul added that he was sick during his training camp and injured his arm, but said: Im not making excuses, I lost.

It would not be surprising to see the pair in the ring again, given the financials involved.

Pauls fight purse was around $3.2m, but he also took home 65 per cent of the pay-per-view money, taking his overall prize money to $8.6m including sponsorships. Fury reportedly received a $2m purse and 35 per cent of the PPV share, totalling a take-home fee of around $4.5m.
Leave it to Quinta Brunson and her Abbott Elementary cast mates to find unique  and often hilarious  ways to nab the spotlight during Hollywoods award season, even when theyre not being honored.

Brunson and fellow actor-comedian Janelle James helped get the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards off to a rollicking start with a cheeky exchange as part of the Sunday ceremonys traditional I Am An Actor opening.

As the SAGs camera crew approached them in the audience, the pair appeared to be caught off-guard as they enjoyed their dinner. Brunson pointed out that James was addressing a film crew member and not one of the Fairmont Hotel ballrooms wait staff.

This isnt one of those kiss cams, is it? James, who plays Ava Coleman on Abbott Elementary, quipped.

A moment later, James continued to showcase her well-honed comedic chops, working the spontaneous moment into a winking anecdote.

When I was starting out in the business, I was haunted by a reoccurring stress dream I was suddenly on TV, with every star in Hollywood suddenly watching me, she said. Tonight, thanks to the help of my friends, that dream has come true.

Watch Brunson and James I Am An Actor bit below.

The exchange drew resounding praise from Abbott Elementary fans on social media.

Janelle James and Quinta Brunson are just as funny together now as they are in the show. #SAGAwards  Jason Fraley (@JFrayWTOP) February 27, 2023

How did we go for so long without having Janelle James and Quinta Brunson weekly on our screens? wrote Blex Media, which celebrates Black artists in Hollywood. They are comedy gold in their SAG Awards bit!

Added another person: Okay when are Quinta Brunson and Janelle James hosting an award show??

Janelle James and Quinta Brunson look gorgeous.  Pal Joey (@JoeyMoser83) February 27, 2023

Brunson and James comical convo marked the start of yet another triumphant night for Abbott Elementary, which was renewed for a third season last month.

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Later in the night, the two women took the stage alongside other Abbott Elementary stars to accept the award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.

In her acceptance speech, Brunson  who is also the creator of Abbott Elementary  dropped an F-bomb while praising the ABC sitcoms cast.

To be a part of this ensemble makes me a better actor every single day, she said. So thank you for recognizing the work of these amazing people. They are the best, and they are so fucking funny all the time.

She went on to note: The peer award feels different.

Related...
[Source]

A member of the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force filed a lawsuit against the government Monday for allegedly failing to bring disciplinary action against a male colleagues verbal sexual harassment despite repeated complaints and lawsuits over the years.

According to the plaintiffs lawyers, the verbal sexual abuse began in 2010 after the plaintiff was assigned to the Naha air base in Okinawa. During this time, a male colleague allegedly made frequent comments about her body and publicly inquired about her sex life.

Other female air force members had also experienced similar verbal sexual harassment from the same colleague, but they did not make any formal complaints in fear of retaliation, according to the plaintiffs lawyers.

The lawyers also added that the plaintiff suffered significant setbacks in her career following her complaints to supervisors and a Self-Defense Force sexual harassment consultation department.

More from NextShark: California church mass shooter charged with hate crimes, faces death penalty

Although the plaintiffs complaints led to the implementation of awareness training, she claims that the government did not hold the colleague responsible for his actions and that she instead suffered from retaliation for years after speaking out  which eventually manifested into stress and insomnia.

In 2016, the plaintiff filed a lawsuit against the male colleague at Naha District Court.

The court acknowledged that sexual harassment had taken place, but dismissed the case after a year, saying the case falls under the governments responsibility and that an individual public servant could not be held responsible. This decision was later maintained by a higher court.

More from NextShark: California OKs death penalty for notorious '80s serial killer Charles Ng

Subsequent efforts to file a criminal complaint with the military police in 2019 were also unsuccessful, the plaintiffs lawyers said.

The plaintiff is now seeking roughly 11.7 million yen (approximately $86,000) in damages from the government.

Daisuke Tabuchi, one of the plaintiffs lawyers, said that the governments failure to take proper measures to prevent sexual harassment and its lack of effort to counter the criticism the plaintiff faced for speaking out has caused her to suffer for more than 10 years.

Story continues

More from NextShark: English teacher in Japan highlights school rules that would 'send Americans into a coma'

The Self Defense Force has faced staff shortages and is desperately recruiting members, and yet problems like these are left unchecked, said Yukiko Takei, another one of the plaintiffs lawyers. We must say governance at the Japanese military is not properly functioning."

The Defense Ministry of Japan declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Victims of sexual harassment, abuse and rape in Japan continue to face challenges when speaking out against their perpetrators and often become targets of criticism in their workplace and online when taking their stories public.

More from NextShark: Identity of man who made anti-Asian remark, bumped into 62-year-old in Flushing sought by NYPD

Last month, a former member of Japan's Self-Defense forces, Rina Gonoi, filed a lawsuit against five men and the government over sexual abuse allegations.

Gonoi joined the forces in 2020 and experienced repeated sexual assault and harassment while training at Camp Koriyama.

Gonoi shared her story on YouTube and started a petition that gained more than 130,000 signatures requesting an internal investigation after both superiors within the Defense Ministry and a local prosecutors office dismissed her case.

The public attention prompted the chief of staff of the army Gen. Yoshishide Yoshida to issue a public apology to Gonoi. Additionally, the perpetrators apologized to Gonoi while kneeling for forgiveness in a private meeting arranged by the Defense Ministry. In December of last year, the ministry then dishonorably discharged five men and disciplined four others.

Gonoi says she still wants the five assailants and the government to be held accountable in court. She is seeking 5.5 million yen (approximately $40,400) in damages from the five men and 2 million yen (approximately $14,700) from the government for failure to take her allegations seriously in the lawsuit filed in January.
TOKYO (AP)  A Japanese air force serviceperson filed a lawsuit against the government on Monday, saying it had failed to protect her from verbal sexual harassment from a male colleague and then systematically covered up the problem for more than a decade.

The plaintiff, who was only identified as a current member of the Air Self Defense Force, faced verbal sexual abuse starting as soon as she was assigned to Naha air base on the southern island of Okinawa in 2010, her lawyers said.

The plaintiff is seeking about 11.7 million yen ($85,800) in damages from the government for failing to protect her from the harassment and failing to create a better working environment, and for not countering the criticism she received for speaking out, causing her to suffer for more than 10 years, lawyer Daisuke Tabuchi told reporters.

The lawyers said the perpetrator also made similar comments to other female air force members, but they didn't openly complain to avoid friction. They said they want to call into question the tendency of the male-dominated military to neglect and cover up sexual harassment.

The Defense Ministry said it had no immediate comment on the lawsuit.

The harassment from the plaintiff's colleague included frequent comments about her body and public questions about her sex life, her lawyers said.

She sought help from her supervisors and an SDF sexual harassment consultation department, but subsequent awareness training put her on the spot, giving her a reputation as a troublemaker rather than a victim, they said.

After six years' endurance, she filed an earlier lawsuit against the perpetrator in 2016 at Naha District Court, which dismissed the case the following year even though it acknowledged his sexual harassment. It said he could not be held responsible as an individual public servant and that the government should bear responsibility. The decision was upheld by a high court.

The plaintiff also filed a criminal complaint with the military police in 2019, but prosecutors eventually dropped the case, according to the lawyers.

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They said she has developed stress and insomnia, and has suffered career setbacks in an alleged organizational revenge for her having spoken up.

Sexual misconduct complaints are often disregarded in Japan, and victims tend to face criticism for speaking up.

Lawyers say Japan's military has lagged behind private companies in dealing with harassment.

The Self Defense Force has faced staff shortages and is desperately recruiting members, and yet problems like these are left unchecked," said Yukiko Takei, another lawyer for the plaintiff. "We must say governance at the Japanese military is not properly functioning."

Mondays lawsuit comes weeks after another SDF sexual harassment victim, former army soldier Rina Gonoi, filed a civil lawsuit against five alleged perpetrators and the government over sexual abuse she suffered.

She went public with her experience last year, demanding that the Defense Ministry re-investigate her case, in which she said she was repeatedly assaulted by several servicemen, causing her to give up her military career. The army dropped her case after she initially filed a complaint in 2021, saying there was insufficient evidence.

Preliminary results of a ministry-wide harassment investigation launched in response to Gonois case found 1,414 complaints, the ministry said in December. About 84% involved abuse of power, while sexual harassment accounted for 116 cases, or 7.7%, the ministry said.
Understanding how dating works in a different country can be difficult  especially if mixed signals are in the equation.

Yumeka Aumemori (@yumekaumemori), a Japanese exchange student in the United States, took to TikTok to share her recent dating experience. American TikTokers affirm that Yumekas story accurately describes what dating is like for them.

Did you know we dont really have a talking stage in Japan? But we do in America right, she starts. So I was like kind of ready to experience like, you know, some cultural differences in terms of dating.

Yumeka says she hung out like 5 times with this guy she met online before going to his house for the first time.

Everything was fine and you know, he was nice and we were having fun so I went there. And his parents and his grandma was there, she reveals. This, Yumeka says, does not typically happen in Japan.

If you do this in Japan its like youre marrying the person or like youre in a real serious relationship with that person.

Still, Yumeka decided to embrace the unexpected meeting.

I calmed myself down and I introduced myself to his family and they were all nice. His dad even asked me if I am thinking of coming back to America so that I can stay with him like longer.

Yumeka notes that at this time they were not in a relationship. Eventually, she learns, he just wanted to be friends.'

I was like excuse me? Like I didnt get mad or anything. I was like just curious. Like what was he thinking about the whole time we were on the couch? And like I asked him like whats with you? He was like, you know, Ive been like focusing on myself.

I had this second thought, Why dont I use him for a bit?'

He also cites past relationships as a deterrent to wanting anything super serious. On the dating app, however, they both said they were looking for a relationship.

Thats how we met and how we matched so I felt so disrespected and I got lied [to], she says. So yeah I blocked him and I hated him, but like, I had this second thought. Why dont I use him for a bit?

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Rather than dwell on their failed relationship, Yumeka decided to use him as a transportation system since he had a car.

After hanging out a couple more times, Yumekas suitor-turned-just-friend had a change of heart.

The last time before I was leaving he was like, You know, weve been hanging out pretty long and I was thinking of like asking you if you wanna become my girlfriend or something. And I said, No,' she laughs.

Yumeka then shares a valuable takeaway from her dating snafu.

Im gonna become friends with guys first, then Im gonna become more than friends after that.

Thats the real US dating experience lol

TikTokers flocked to the comments. Many American commenters validated Yumekas experience.

you deserve better queen, wrote @limpyshire.

so when a person says that they arent looking for anything serious, they mean nothings serious WITH YOU, shared @sunmoon4766.

Thats the real US dating experience lol, said @hay.jay.hooray.

Yes use him for his car. Dont give him gas money either, wrote @slothbabyslothbaby.

Yumekas experience serves as a reminder that dating  wherever you are  can be tough. Whether in Japan, the United States or anywhere else, mixed signals and unclear intentions arent uncommon.

In The Know is now available on Apple News  follow us here!

The post Japanese exchange student shares dating mishap: Thats the real US dating experience lol appeared first on In The Know.

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Jason Arday is the youngest Black professor at Englands Cambridge University.

The post Jason Arday Could Not Read Or Write, But Now Is The Youngest Black Professor At Cambridge University appeared first on AfroTech.

You may be surprised about Ardays journey to earn the gleaming title. As a result of his autism, he could not speak until he was 11 and was unable to read or write until he was in his teens. Therapists and career advisors told him he would spend his life in assisted living.

But Arday was determined to have his story play out differently. Working through a learning disability while growing up in an underserved community, he continued to dream big.

One day I will work at Oxford or Cambridge, he told himself at the age of 27, according to WalesOnline.

Before his current post, Arday had once worked as a physical education teacher while obtaining a degree at the University of Surrey in Guildford, England. It was initially difficult to find his footing in academia, and he remembered his papers being violently rejected.

When I started writing academic papers, I had no idea what I was doing, Arday explained to to WalesOnline. I did not have a mentor, and no one ever showed me how to write. Everything I submitted got violently rejected. The peer review process was so cruel, it was almost funny, but I treated it as a learning experience and, perversely, began to enjoy it.

Fortunately, he stayed the course and obtained two masters degrees, and then he added a Ph.D. in education from Liverpool John Moores University to his resume.

From there Arday co-edited a report about racial and ethnic inequalities in British Universities in 2015. Three years later, he published his first paper and worked as a senior lecturer at Roehampton University. Afterward, he went on to work as an associate professor of sociology at Durham University and then secured a professorship at the University of Glasgows School of Education.

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The root of Ardays passion for education has centered on how the education system impacts Black students as well as racial discrimination in education. He remembered learning of the realities for Black students during his childhood years living in an underserved community.

His current chapter will place him at one of the top universities across the globe. In total, there are only 155 Black professors in the U.K. out of 23,000. He also has joined just five other Black professors to teach at Cambridge University.

A lot of academics say they stumbled into this line of work, but from that moment I was determined and focused  I knew that this would be my goal. On reflection, this is what I meant to do, Arday said, according to Wales Online.
Former GOP presidential hopeful Jeb Bush in a recent interview threw his support behind Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), arguing its time for a generational change in our politics.

I think it is, Bush, a former Florida governor himself, told Fox News host Brian Kilmeade in a Fox Nation special called Who is Ron DeSantis? when asked if it was the right opportunity for DeSantis to run for higher office.

Hes been a really effective governor. Hes young. I think were on the verge of a generational change in our politics. Kind of hope so. I think its time for a more forward-leaning, future-oriented conversation, our politics, as well, Bush said during the special. The comments aired last Wednesday but resurfaced online Monday.

While DeSantis has not officially announced a White House bid, a presidential announcement is almost expected with an anticipated timing following Floridas legislative session. Only former President Trump and former U.S. Ambassador to the U.S. Nikki Haley have officially launched White House bids.

But that hasnt stopped other Republicans from wading into the preliminary GOP presidential primary.

Who better to do it than someone whos been outside of Washington, whos governed effectively, who I think has shown that Florida can be a model for the future of our country, Bush said.

Bush is no stranger to presidential politics. The former Florida governor was seen as an early front-runner in the 2016 Republican presidential primary, but he later dropped out of the race following disappointing primary finishes in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina.

The former Florida governor has also backed the idea of Trump getting challenged in the 2020 primary, though that effort didnt succeed. Though Bush told CNN in an interview last October that Trump would likely be a formidable challenger going into 2024, he also said that therell be other candidates that will be able to make their case for sure.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former presidential candidate Jeb Bush said that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has the opportunity to run for president in 2024 in a bid to beat former president Donald Trump, who crushed Mr Bush in the 2016 Republican presidential primary.

Fox News Brian Kilmeade asked Mr Bush, himself a former Florida governor, whether 2024 offered his successor an opportunity to seek the White House.

I think it is, Mr Bush said. Hes been a really effective governor. Hes young. I think were on the verge of a generational change in our politics. Kind of hope so.

Mr DeSantis has long been seen as a potential challenger to Mr Trump, but has yet to announce whether he will run himself. The former president, a Florida transplant, announced his candidacy in November and so far, only former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley has announced her challenge to the former president.

Mr Bush, the son of former president George HW Bush and the brother of former president George W Bush, ran against Mr Trump in 2016 for the Republican nomination.

But despite having a massive campaign war chest and backing by many in the Republican establishment, Mr Bush faltered largely thanks to Mr Trumps brutal mockery. Mr Trump labeled Mr Bush low-energy.

Mr Trump, who opened his 2016 campaign saying immigrants from Mexico were drug dealers and rapists, bashed Mr Bush for supporting immigration reform, at one point, retweeting someone who said Mr Bush only liked Mexican illegals because of his wife. Mr Bushs wife, Columba, was born in Mexico but migrated to the United States legally.

After a poor showing in Iowa and New Hampshire, Mr Bush ended his campaign when he faltered in the South Carolina primary in 2016, which Mr Trump won.

Mr Bush took a subtle swipe at the former president.

I think its for a more forward-leaning, future-oriented conversation in our politics as well, he said. And who better to do it than someone who has been outside of Washington, whos governed effectively, who I think has shown that Florida can be a model for the future of our country.

The battle between Mr DeSantis and Mr Trump would not be the first proxy war between the two. In 2022, Mr Bushs son George P Bush challenged incumbent Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, whom Mr Trump endorsed. Mr Paxton would overwhelmingly beat Mr Bush in a runoff election.
Jennifer Coolidge just scored a SAG award  and Twitter couldnt be happier for the acting queen.

After starring in HBOs hit drama The White Lotus, the 61-year-old has experienced quite the career resurgence in the past year, including landing her first Golden Globe and her first Emmy for her role as the lovably loony Tanya in the series.

At Sundays 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles, Coolidge nabbed yet another win, taking home the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her performance in the second season of the beloved series.

Its been a very special year and you know, overwhelming, Coolidge said while delivering her acceptance speech. And White Lotus and Mike White writing me this great part that went on for two seasons, and just HBO giving me the thumbs up to let me do it.

I just want to say, she continued while tearing up. I want you all to know that Im just so grateful. So grateful, because this could be it.

Jennifer Coolidge wins Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series at the #SAGAwards for The White Lotus  pic.twitter.com/YolkdOsNEl  out of context the white lotus (@oocwhitelotus) February 27, 2023

In a touching nod to the shows creator, Mike White, Coolidge thanked him for changing her mindset in the industry.

Speaking to him directly in the crowd, she added, You can give money to friends and do nice things for them, and people love money, and I do  whenever I can. When your friends are broke, you can give money and stuff, but the best gift you can give someone is to change someones perspective for the better, and view life in a different way, and thats what Mike White did for me.

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Elsewhere in her speech, Coolidge thanked her parents for introducing her to the acting world from a young age, before giving a steamy thanks to her date and longtime pal, fellow actor Tim Bagley.

My wonderful date  Tim Bagley is my date tonight. Hes my best bud for like, 20 years. Thank you, youre a wonderful date tonight. I cant wait till we get home, Coolidge quipped as the crowd roared in laughter.

Coolidges recent glow-up has been the true definition of a feel-good comeback  and Twitter users didnt take long to celebrate the fan-favorites epic win.

So happy Jennifer Coolidge is finally getting her flowers and yet another award season win at the SAG Awards tonight pic.twitter.com/evBSjpZejY  Louise (@Lulubell46) February 27, 2023

need someone to explain to me how Jennifer Coolidge has never been invited to the SAG Awards until tonight pic.twitter.com/0E7qXnheCT  Principal Ava Coleman stan (@1ux1isbon) February 27, 2023

JENNIFER COOLIDGE JUST WON THE SAG Awards pic.twitter.com/58e1hHgfYi  hugeasmammoth.films (@hugeasmammoth_) February 27, 2023

JENNIFER COOLIDGE WINNING AT HER FIRST SAG AWARDS IKTR  down bad (@judyapplellini) February 27, 2023

Jennifer Coolidge gets the SAG   Saiyam Babel (@SaiyamRJ) February 27, 2023

Check out a complete list of this years SAG Award winners here.

Related...
Jeremy Clarkson shared a picture of the vandalised road sign. (Amazon Prime)

Content advisory: Explicit language

Jeremy Clarkson revealed vandals have altered the road sign to his Diddly Squat Farm Shop to an obscene word.

The former Top Gear presenter shared a picture of the graffitied sign on Instagram and appeared to see the funny side as he captioned it "Someones been busy in the night."

The road sign indicating nearby village Chadlington and the farm now reads: "Diddly T*** Farm Shop."

Fellow Clarkson's Farm star Kaleb Cooper also enjoyed the joke, commenting: "Haha! Thats so funny."

Read more: Clarkson's Farm: Local council defends planning process highlighted by show

The Who Wants To Be A Millionaire host has divided audiences and the local residents of his village in the Cotswolds, West Oxfordshire by turning his farming expolits into a hit Amazon Prime show.

It was recently revealed the new series of Clarkson's Farm has achieved record viewing figures, with the series premiere watched by almost 4.3 million people.

Jeremy Clarkson revealed the sign to Diddly Squat Farm had been vandalised. (SWNS)

It has now become Amazons most-watched original show in the UK since data for major streaming services started being collected.

Amazon Prime was rumoured to have severed tries with Clarkson following comments he made about Meghan Markle in his newspaper column.

Read more: Jeremy Clarkson and Amazon 'set to part ways' after Meghan Markle row

A third series of Clarkson's Farm was commissioned last year and Clarkson told fans of the new season two on Twitter: "It isnt the last series. Dont worry."

Clarkson's Farm (Prime Video)

Meanwhile, The Grand Tour star has had to apologise to customers at his farm shop after fans flocked to its reopening, and were unable to find space in the car park.

He appealed on Twitter: "Its really busy at the farm shop today and Im sorry we cant provide proper car parking. Until we can, the local police, who are very great and much on our side btw, do ask that people dont park on the main road."

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Its really busy at the farm shop today and Im sorry we cant provide proper car parking. Until we can, the local police, who are very great and much on our side btw, do ask that people dont park on the main road.  Jeremy Clarkson (@JeremyClarkson) February 19, 2023

The TV presenter's apology came after a warning from the local council about traffic congestion in the area.

Queues quickly formed at the shop after it reopened on 10 February 2023. And when the car park became full shoppers began leaving their cars on the verges of the approaching country roads.

This was despite Oxford County Council putting out a warning on social media saying: "If you are planning on visiting Jeremy Clarksons Diddly Squat Farm Shop in Chadlington, please park safely and considerately.

"Dont park on the A361. Its just too dangerous."

Watch: Ant and Dec prank Jeremy Clarkson in farm protest

Since the shop was featured in Clarkson's Farm its popularity has caused ongoing traffic problems on local roads.

The local council have defended its decision to refuse him permission to expand the car park at Diddly Squat Farm Shop and insisted Clarkson was treated just like any other applicant.

After being refused planning permission to extend his car park the TV presenter went ahead and opened a steak restaurant on site at the farm in July 2022.

Jeremy Clarkson has turned his farming exploits into a hit show. (Prime Video)

He revealed he had been able to open the "rustic" eatery in a barn thanks to a "cunning little loophole" in planning rules.

Read more: Jeremy Clarkson says he's 'still hated' by some in 'divided' Cotswold village

The local council shut down the restaurant a month later saying that the parking, toilets, traffic, along with the dining was visually intrusive and harmful to the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Jessa Duggar Seewald, wearing a olive green shirt, speaks to the camera in a YouTube video.

Over the weekend, Jessa Duggar Seewald uploaded a heartbreaking 18-minute vlog to YouTube in which the former 19 Kids And Counting star tells her kids shes pregnant. But at 11 weeks, Duggar Seewald makes a confession to a front-facing camera: Shes had some spotting.

It does seem a bit concerning, Duggar Seewald said.

Read more

They scheduled an ultrasound for the next day. Once at the appointment, after taking the images, someone told them the amniotic sac looks good, the baby does not. Her child, with husband Ben Seewald, would not survive.

Nothing could have prepared me for the weight of those words in that moment. I had really allowed myself to become so hopeful in that moment because the spotting had stopped. At that moment I was just in complete shock, she said. I didnt even have words. I just immediately started crying.

Duggar Seewald would need an abortion.

Except, she doesnt call it that in the video; instead, the mother of four would possibly take something or pass the baby at home. But because of her history of hemorrhaging, the doctor was concerned about self-managing the abortion at home. (And because abortion is banned in Arkansas, where she lives, except to save the pregnant persons life.)

We decided to go the hospital, get checked in there and go through the process of a D&C, she said, better known as dilation and curettage. It was a difficult experience.

People magazine and other outlets accepted Duggars framing of the experience as a miscarriagewhich would be fine, except that an anti-abortion celebrity literally having an abortion is probably something thats worth discussing honestly. Its commendable that Duggar Seewald is sharing her experience of a procedural abortion. She rose to famealong with her familyon the backs of reality shows promoting evangelical Christianity and its politics. Duggar Seewalds story is proof that abortion treatment is needed and wanted by even the most anti-abortion among us.

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This has not stopped anti-abortion groups from trying to distinguish miscarriage treatment from an abortion. An abortion is the act of ending a pregnancy, whether by medication or by procedure. An abortion is how a miscarriage is treated, to make sure a patients uterus is completely evacuated, that way no further complications (like sepsis!) ensue. Abortion is a medical treatment, and when you outlaw it, you threaten peoples lives.

Louisiana Right for Life, for instance, says the states extremely strict abortion ban does allow for a miscarriage exception. However, doctors are failing to treat pregnant patients for miscarriage because they worry about the similarity to abortionsince they often are the same. It was just a gross misunderstanding of the law from the practitioners handling the case, unfortunately, Sarah Zagorski from LRL told the Guardian.

It sounds like Duggar Seewald went through hell when she talks about her conversations with God after she found out her pregnancy was ending. She talks about self-blame a lot. Was her painting project before the positive test to blame? Was it because she didnt take her prenatals faithfully because she was so nauseous? She described feeling hallow and alone after.

I feel like in some ways miscarriages can be so much more jarring, because you dont have clear signs of something going wrong, she said. I mean, I had minimal spotting for 24 hours, and that was it.

I hope Duggar Seewald finds support and solace for her abortion story. I hope she also realizes the family of abortion-havers shes joining, including those who believe in a higher power, too.

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First lady Jill Biden said there isnt a chance in her book that President Biden will decide not to run for a second term.

Its Joes decision and we support whatever he wants to do. If hes in, were there. If he wants to do something else, were there too, Jill Biden told CNN in an interview while in Africa over the weekend.

Not in my book, she added when asked if there was a chance her husband would not seek reelection. Im all for it, of course.

Also while in Africa, Jill Biden gave one of the strongest nods toward a 2024 bid from the presidents inner circle when she told The Associated Press in an interview that President Bidens not finished with what he started.

The first lady also told CNN that there are no plans yet for a reelection announcement, pointing to her husbands busy schedule.

He said he intends to run so nothings been planned yet. I think, hes been so busy with being in Ukraine, handling some of the crises at home. I think hes putting that first, hes putting Americas business before hes putting his own, she said.

President Biden has said that he intends to run for reelection and he is expected to make an official decision in the coming months. He has made nods to a reelection bid; in his State of the Union address, the president said about a dozen times that he wants to finish the job.

Meanwhile, White House aids and some Biden allies have shrugged off angst and chatter about whether Biden will really run for reelection at the age of 81, taking a dim view of media reports that suggest otherwise as an effort to put pressure on him to officially announce.

The first lady was on a five-day trip to Africa last week with her granddaughter, Naomi Biden, during which they visited Kenya and Namibia. The trip came after the president announced at the end of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in December that he will travel to sub-Saharan Africa in 2023. He said at the time that there will also be visits to Africa from other officials, including his wife.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
LOSITETI, Kenya  First lady Jill Biden got an up-close look Sunday at the historic East Africa drought as she walked along arid land and listened as some Maasai women described how their children and livestock are going hungry. She appealed for more countries to join the United States to help alleviate the suffering.

Some areas of the Horn of Africa have endured five consecutive failed rainy seasons, meaning there was no rainfall or an insufficient amount to help farmers with their crops and livestock. An upcoming sixth rainy season, beginning in March, is expected to be about the same or worse.

Biden, who was on the final day of a five-day visit to Africa, toured an outreach center in the town operated by World Vision with support from UNICEF and the World Food Program. She chatted with people who had brought their children to be screened for malnutrition and she participated in a discussion with a group of women, including a mother of 10 children, who shared their stories.

They talked about how their livestock are dying. Obviously, you can see the drought here, how bad it is, the first lady told reporters afterward. The one source of water here feeds 12 villages and each village has approximately a thousand to 1,200 people.

So they are coming here, the people are coming to get water, theyre bringing their livestock to get water. But unfortunately, for many of them, the way they make their living is from their livestock and for most of them, the livestock are dying, so theyre having a hard time, she said.

Biden noted that the United States has provided 70% of the money sent to the region to help alleviate the suffering, but we cannot be the only ones.

We need to have other countries join us in this global effort to help these people of the region, she said, adding that the drought was competing with humanitarian efforts tied to Russians war in Ukraine and an earthquake that killed tens of thousands of people in Turkey and Syria.

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I mean, there are a lot of competing interests but, obviously here, people are actually, livestock, people are starving, she said.

Meg Whitman, the U.S. ambassador to Kenya, who accompanied Biden, said people know intellectually whats going on in the region but its different when you just see it.

Underscoring Biden, Whitman said that everyone needs to help as best we can here because this is going to continue for the foreseeable future.

Members of the Maasai community, who are predominantly herders, live in Kajiado county where Biden visited.

Nearly 23 million people in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya are thought to be highly food insecure, which means they do not know where they will find their next meal, according to a food security working group chaired by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization and the regional Intergovernmental Authority on Development.

A Maasai elder, Mingati Samanya, 69, said he lost 10 cows during the recent prolonged dry season and struggled to find hay for the rest of his herd.

The short rains last year were insufficient and right now we are back to struggling for pasture. We hope the long rains will be enough, he told The Associated Press in a telephone interview.

Biden sought to use her stature to help focus the worlds attention on the worsening humanitarian crisis in East Africa by touring the drought-stricken area near Kenyas border with Tanzania.

On the nearly three-hour drive south of Nairobi, the capital, Bidens lengthy motorcade passed over dry river and creek beds. Numerous cows were walking alongside the highway  many so thin that their ribs were showing.

Throngs of people lined both sides of the motorcade route at various points, waving or using their cellphones to record the event.

Some 4.4 million people in Kenya are facing high levels of food insecurity, with the number projected to rise to 5.4 million in March, according to an analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification.

Already, 11 million livestock that are essential to many families health and livelihood have died. Many of the people affected are farmers who have watched their crops wither and die, and their water sources run dry.

Northern Kenya, which is arid and semi-arid and is where pastoralist communities live, is most affected.

The countrys agriculture sector heavily relies on rainfall, and the meteorological department is predicting delayed rains in the upcoming short rainy season that should begin in March.

President William Ruto announced last October that his cabinet had lifted a decade-old ban on openly cultivating and importing genetically modified crops. The decision came amid pressure from the U.S. government, which had argued that the ban affected U.S. agricultural exports and food aid.

Last week, Ruto led the country in praying for rain.

The first lady has been highlighting the drought along with women and youth empowerment since arriving in Namibia last Wednesday.

Biden had visited Kenya in 2011, when her husband, Joe Biden, was serving as vice president, to help raise awareness about what then was considered a severe famine. U.S. officials and aid organizations say the current drought is far worse.
Photo Illustration by Thomas Levinson/The Daily Beast/Reuters

Earlier this month, white representatives in the Mississippi House approved a bill to create a new districtthat includes all of the majority-white neighborhoods in Jackson, a capital city that is 83 percent Black. This includes creating a criminal justice system for the district, overseen by an all-white power base.

Under House Bill 1020, the white conservative chief justice of the Mississippi Supreme Court would handpick the new districts two supervising judges; its prosecutors and public defenders would be chosen by the states white Republican attorney general.

Georgias U.S. Senate Race Should Have Never Been This Close

The zone would be policed by an expanded Capitol Police force, led by the current white police chief, and supervised by the states white Public Safety commissioner. Because all the districts officials would be appointed instead of elected, Jacksons majority-Black citizenry would have no voting rights on the mattermaking it Mississippis only jurisdiction where, according to the ACLU, unelected judges and prosecutors have jurisdiction over criminal and civil law mattersalthough 12 percent of their sales taxes would be redirected to help pay for it all.

Its oppressive because it strips the right of Black folks to vote, Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba said, after the bill cleared the House. Its oppressive because it puts a military force over people that has no accountability to them. Its oppressive because there will be judges who will determine sentences over peoples lives. Its oppressive because it redirects their tax dollars to something they dont endorse nor believe in.

State Rep. Trey Lamar, the white Republican who sponsored the bill, lives in and represents a majority-white district more than two hours away from Jackson. (He holds a seat once held by his grandfather, Leon Hannaford, whose legacy includes introducing a 1962 bill to tighten residency requirements for college students, which a local paper at the time reported, would have kept Negro James Meredith from filing suit to enter the University of Mississippi.) In various statements on the House floor and in an op-ed from last weekend, the legislator has insisted that HB 1020, by adding unelected judges to Hinds Countys courts, will help clear up lengthy case backlogs, while an expanded Capitol Police force will address a spike in crime in Jackson, allowing his constituents to feel safe when they come to the capital.

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Calling the bill racially neutral, he suggested Jacksons Black elected representatives, who overwhelmingly rejected the legislation, have used race as some kind of political maneuver, and has even gone so far as to accuse those same black officials of incompetence in leadership.

If its not already obvious already, theres really only one way to describe an effort to create a white political stronghold in Americas second blackest city, where the Black majority is subject to taxation without representationand that is, trying to pull a Jim Crow.

But its not just the top-down white supremacist power structure the bill proposes that begs the Jim Crow comparisons. Its also the overtly racist subtext needed to justify the idea that white power is the natural solutionan assumption so frequently made, its recognizable between all those lines of racially neutral language. (At the suggestion of an amendment to ensure his bills unelected judges at least be from Jackson, Lamar suggested the search not be limited to the majority-Black city, asking, Do we not want our best and brightest sitting in judgment?)

Black House Democrats rightly compared the bill to Mississippis 1890 Constitution, which was drafted explicitly to exclude the Negro from voting through sinster methods of Black disenfranchisement. But the toppling of Reconstruction, in Mississippi as elsewhere, was also driven by the white supremacist assumption of Black incompetence, intellectual unfitness, and innate inadequacy, ideas fabricated to cast Black folks as incapable of leading. One Mississippi delegate would later write that the goal of the states constitutional convention had been to adopt some provision in our organic law which would serve to the State a good and stable government, freed fromnegro rule from which we had suffered and to remove from the sphere of politics in the state the ignorant and unpatriotic negro.

For nearly a century, the white racist recollection of Reconstruction would redact and overwrite history, smearing Black leaders as inherently unfit to hold office, and falsely portraying the reestablishment of absolute white authority as a necessary intervention and saving grace.

Perhaps this history is lost to Mississippis current white legislators, but that seems unlikely considering the effort theyve put into scrubbing it from textbooks. (Ditto the fact that no Black official has held any of the designated shot-calling positionsattorney general, chief justice of the Supreme Courtnor any statewide elected office since the brief period of Reconstruction after the Civil War, which ended due to white terrorism to block Black voting power, the Mississippi Free Press reported.)

Apartment complexes and neighborhoods in the southern part of the capital city in Jackson, Mississippi. Rory Doyle/Reuters

Mississippi Today reports that during the four-hour debate over the bill, as Black House members were doing all they could to plead with the humanity of their GOP colleagues, a large number of Republicans left the House floor altogether for a majority of the debate, reappearing from the back halls of the Capitol to cast a final yea vote. Lamar, apparently indifferent, sat behind the well and scrolled his phone.

And yet, Lamar keeps saying that HB 1020 is a good faith effort at helping the people of Jackson and Hinds County, but it sure seems like the same tired narrative of the civilizing power of whiteness being used to save uncivilized Blackness from itself.

South Carolinas Democratic Primary Is 400 Years in the Making

Whats more, this sudden compulsion to help by takeoverframed almost as charitable giving, in debate over the billcomes after years of apparently feeling unmoved. Both Lamar and Gov. Tate Reeves used the language of incompetence when indicting Jacksons Black leaders about the recent water crisis, but Jacksons leaders had already pleaded for funds from Mississippis legislative supermajority, only to be repeatedly shortchanged. Jackson city schools have long been underfunded, an issue that was exacerbated by 2013s Charter Public Schools Act, but instead of correcting the problem, a takeover was again proposed as a logical solution. And during this legislative session, instead of organizing a hostile takeover, the legislature could vote to expand Medicaid, which would do far more to aid Black Jacksonians than stripping their voting rights could even pretend to. But so far, Mississippis legislative majority seems uninterested in providing that sort of help.

Makes you wonder where the ineptitude truly lies.

If HB 1020 isnt an attempt at a land grab, as Democratic Rep. Ed Blackmon called it, then why does the bill not simply seek to fund more permanent elected judges to Hinds County and Jacksons courts, instead of diverting tax money to a whole new district? If criminal cases have surged in tandem with Jacksons crime surge, thus creating the backlog that Lamar wants to address, then why are the unelected judges of HB 1020 also going to be handling civil cases, to re-pose another question from Blackmon? (Especially since, in his op-ed self-defense, Lamar notes that Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owen stated that our current judges are working really hard, but they have half civil and half criminal dockets.)

Mississippis crime lab has been underfunded, understaffed, and under-equipped for yearscontributing to backlogs in Jacksons courts and all around the stateand yet Lamars bill does nothing to address long-standing appeals from lab staffers to address any of those issues. Overlooking these problems doesnt seem like a good way to address Jacksons criminal court case backlogs, unless what you were really trying to do was to create yet another entrenched white power system in the state.

Mississippis Capitol Police officers reportedly shot more people in 2022 than any other Mississippi law enforcement department, with the most recent shooting occurring in December. The departments fatal police shooting of 25-year-old Jaylen Lewis in September is still under investigation by the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. At a meeting between the police chief and public safety officers, Black residents expressed concerns that Capitol officers dont know how to deal with Black people in Black neighborhoods, and fears that most of the forces officers are from counties known for their racial prejudice.

While the new Capitol District will still be majority Black, it will also include 80 percent of Jacksons white residents, and guess whose property rights will be prioritized over all else, including certain folks lives? Nevermind Capitol Police lack an oversight board or standard requirements around transparency of reporting regarding officer-involved shootings, as Jackson-based organizer Makani Themba wrote for The Nation.

Why Do Anti-Woke Free Thinkers All Have the Same Opinions?

Just as Lamar wants his constituents to feel safe when they come to the capital, Black Jacksonians want to feel safe, too, both from crime and from over-policing. Its a concern the legislator blithely dismissed by stating, if you're not committing crimes in Jackson, you really don't have anything to worry about.

Thats quite a statement from someone with deep roots in a state notorious for creating the first Black Codes, having the most racial terror lynchings, having a Senate that voted to ship its Black residents to Africa at the late date of 1922, which created the first White Citizens' Council, which removed the Confederate flag from its banner in 2020, and which attempted to ban the teaching about all of those things with a bill that erroneously calls it critical race theory.

In 2023, the Mississippi House passed a bill that would essentially resurrect Jim Crow; now that proposed law will head to the Senate, where Republicans also retain majority power. Perhaps Mississippi will become the first state to so openly reinstate Jim Crow, extracting Black power in every form it can, yet again. And others will undoubtedly follow.

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Just a few hours before President Carter underwent his first radiation treatment for brain cancer, he spoke of his hope, in the time he had left, to purge the world of a parasitic worm disease.

That was in 2015.

Id like the last Guinea worm to die before I do, the 39th president told reporters at the Carter Center. We know where all of them are, so obviously that would be my top priority.

Carter had set up the global Guinea Worm Eradication Program in 1986, when about 3.5 million people across rural Africa and Asia were afflicted by the excruciating parasite that has plagued humans for thousands of years.

The 98-year-old, now in hospice at home in Plains, Ga., is on the cusp of reaching his goal: The number of reported human cases dwindled in 2022 to 13  an all-time low.

We've joked many times: Who's going to win  the Guinea worm or Jimmy Carter? said Dr. Peter Bourne, Carters former drug czar who became an assistant secretary-general at the United Nations. Thirteen is pretty close to zero. For the millions of people who didn't get the Guinea worm infection, he has had an enormous impact.

One of the outstanding achievements of the Carter presidency was the 1979 peace settlement between Israel and Egypt. Decades later, the prospect of peace in the Middle East is dismal, and Carters most enduring global legacy could be making Guinea worm the second infectious human disease to be eradicated, after smallpox in 1980.

His role was crucial, Bourne said. He would call people like the president of Ghana and say, I want to talk to you about Guinea worm. It was difficult enough to get the minister of health on the phone, and to get a president to talk about Guinea worm was no easy feat. But they would all respond to him.

A health worker removes a Guinea worm from a child's foot in Savelugu, Ghana, in 2007. (Olivier Asselin / Associated Press)

The Latin name of Guinea worm disease  Dracunculiasis  means affliction with little dragons. The calcified remains of the worm have been found in a 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy of a 13-year-old girl, and some scholars believe they may have been the fiery serpents the Old Testament describes as attacking the Israelites in the desert.

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Humans contract the parasite after drinking stagnant water infested with tiny crustaceans that have swallowed microscopic Guinea worm larvae. After an incubation period of about a year, the larvae grow into noodle-like worms up to 3 feet long that wrap around tendons, ligaments and connective tissue. They release a burning acid that blisters the skin, allowing them to poke their head out of a leg, foot or arm, and in some cases a breast or scrotum.

The worm's exit is so agonizing that it prevent kids from going to school and adults from farming, cooking and collecting firewood. Ridding the body of the parasite takes weeks. First, the worm is wrapped onto a rolled piece of gauze or stick. Then the stick is twisted to slowly pull out the worm, about an inch a day.

In 1988, Carter encountered the Guinea worm for the first time in the village of Denchira near Accra, the Ghanian capital. About half the villages 500 inhabitants were infected, some so crippled that they could not leave their huts. Carter spotted a young woman he thought was cradling a baby in the crook of her right arm, but when he approached, he realized she was not holding an infant.

Her right breast, which was about more than a foot long  had a Guinea worm emerging from the nipple, Carter said in 2016.

"Well, we can't leave them like this," Carter said after his visit to Denchira.

The Carter Center worked with the Ministry of Health to bring every known intervention to the village, said Dr. Donald R. Hopkins, who led the center's efforts to eradicate the disease from 1987 to 2015. Nearly a year and a half later, Carter went back to Denchira to find the parasite almost gone.

Adam Weiss, the director of the center's Guinea Worm Eradication Program, said Carter would try to console patients and hold their hands as they shrieked when the worm emerged.

It's one of those problems that once you see it, you can't unsee it, Weiss said. Even some of the most stoic men in South Sudan, this brings them to their knees. They cry. They don't want to admit it, but they do. Its something you can't walk away from.

Over the years, Carter's visits to rural Africa inspired thousands of schoolchildren to line highways to see him. In Nigeria, Carter said, a group of children held a big sign that said, "Watch out, Guinea worm, here comes Jimmy Carter!"

Carter first considered the possibility of eradicating Guinea worm when he was in the White House. As smallpox was on the verge of being eliminated in 1977, Carter asked Bourne if there was any other disease that could have the same impact.

Bourne told Carter that the Guinea worm would probably be the easiest global infectious disease to eradicate: Unlike smallpox, it could be eliminated without a medicine or vaccine. Prevention could be achieved by showing villagers how to make their water supply safe  filtering drinking water and preventing the infected from walking into stagnant ponds and spreading larvae  coupled with vigilant monitoring of the disease.

But there was a problem: Guinea worm disease did not exist in the United States.

We decided that the Guinea worm was so obscure that no one in the U.S. would pay attention, Bourne said. I thought that he isn't going to want to use up any political credit.

That calculus changed when Carter left the White House in 1981 and a year later founded the Carter Center. By that point, Bourne was working at the United Nations, heading a 10-year program to provide people around the world with clean drinking water.

After speaking at the Carter Center on the importance of clean drinking water, Bourne said he hosted the Carters on a trout fishing vacation at his farm in Wales and asked the former president to be the figurehead for the campaign to fight the parasitic disease.

I told him: You could eradicate Guinea worm in your lifetime, Bourne said. Its something that would have global impact, and you don't have to worry about doing it just for a U.S. audience.

Children in the town of Terekeka, South Sudan, draw water, Oct. 4, 2017, from a stagnant pond that was once infected with Guinea worm when the town was endemic. (AP Photo/Mariah Quesada, File) (Mariah Quesada / Associated Press)

With his presidency behind him, Carter had more freedom. He made eliminating Guinea worm one of the Carter Centers priorities, along with five other preventable diseases: river blindness, trachoma, schistosomiasis, lymphatic filariasis and malaria.

At first, engaging foreign leaders was a challenge because Guinea worm is mostly a rural affliction.

We found nobody else wanted to deal with this disease because it affects isolated villages in the desert areas and also in the jungle areas, Carter said to the Commonwealth Club of California.

When Hopkins went from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to the Carter Center to direct the Guinea Worm Eradication Program, Carter would constantly tell him he was not calling him enough to ask for his help.

"I didn't want to bother a former president of the United States every time I ran into a problem in one country or another; I tried to save that big thing for the big problems," Hopkins said. "But he insisted."

As Carter worked closely with ministries of health, local volunteers and organizations such as the CDC and the World Health Organization, the Guinea worm case count plummeted from the 3.5 million in 1986 to 623,579 in 1990 to 75,223 in 2000.

The disease was eradicated in 17 countries, including Pakistan, Kenya, India, Yemen, Senegal and Cameroon.

In some regions, the program was stalled by civil war. But in some cases, the push to eradicate the Guinea worm helped foster peace.

In 1995, Carter negotiated a four-month "Guinea Worm Cease-Fire" in the Sudanese civil war, the longest humanitarian cease-fire in history at the time, allowing health workers to access almost 2,000 endemic villages and distribute water filters. Until then, the center's strategy had been to wait until the end of the civil war before embarking on its public health mission.

For a while, it looked as though Carter would outlive the last Guinea worm. But in 2012, the program experienced a setback: The parasite was spreading among stray dogs in Chad, a nation that had gone a decade without human infections.

Health workers introduced new measures such as chaining infected dogs to keep them out of water, which has significantly reduced transmission among canines. In 2022, six provisional human cases were reported in Chad, five in South Sudan, one in Ethiopia, and one in the Central African Republic.

Weiss said he and his colleagues at the Carter Center along with more than 30,000 volunteers working in areas under active surveillance  are determined to continue Carter's legacy.

He said let's get it done before I leave planet Earth, and that has certainly given us a lot of motivation, Weiss said. We keep doubling down the attention and rigor as eradication demands. You miss one case, and you can be set back years, so we don't take that lightly, and neither did he.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP)  A Florida judge rejected a prosecutor's impassioned plea Monday, saying he would not reconsider his acquittal of a nursing home administrator in the overheating deaths of nine patients after Hurricane Irma knocked out the facility's air conditioning in 2017.

Circuit Judge John J. Murphy III listened impassively as prosecutor Charles Morton made his case Monday morning for reconsideration. But after about an hour of deliberation Murphy upheld his Friday decision to acquit Jorge Carballo of manslaughter  even before the three-week trial reached the jury.

Murphy agreed with Carballo's attorneys that it would be double jeopardy to reverse his decision and let the trial continue. In his earlier ruling, he agreed with the defense that prosecutors had failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that their client had acted with reckless disregard for human life or had demonstrated conscious indifference to his patients safety, two necessary components for conviction.

The judge found undisputed evidence that Carballos employees had tried to provide care to the patients and, in Monday's ruling, said nothing presented in court would have changed his mind even if he could have.

The state has not presented sufficient evidence that the Defendant acted with culpable negligence, Murphy wrote Monday. Prosecutors cannot appeal the ruling, which is final.

Carballos attorneys did not immediately return a phone call seeking reaction to the ruling.

Carballo, 65, was operating the Rehabilitation Center at Hollywood Hills in September 2017 when Irma knocked out power to the 150-bed facilitys air conditioning. Temperatures rose inside the building over two-plus days before patients started dying on the second floor. That's where improperly installed temporary air conditioners had actually increased the already sweltering temperatures.

In Hollywood, four patients were found dead initially after emergency workers received a call about a person with a heart attack, and more died later at the hospital, authorities said. Altogether, more than 100 patients there were found to be suffering in the heat and were evacuated, many on stretchers or in wheelchairs.

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Carballo and three of his employees were originally charged with 12 deaths, but prosecutors dropped charges against the others and reduced the counts against Carballo. He had faced up to 30 years in prison if convicted.

Irma had disconnected an electrical line that powered only the facility's air conditioner. The facility's other power remained. The power and air conditioning were also intact at a large regional hospital across the street, where prosecutors and families have argued the patients should have been evacuated.

Broward County State Attorney Harold Pryor issued a statement Monday saying that he and his team respectfully accept the judges decision, though we strongly disagree with it.

I think we can all agree that all of us would want our family members to have been treated with much more care and concern, he said.

Glendale Owens, whose 83-year-old father, Bobby Owens, died at the facility, was frustrated by the judge's ruling. She believes the patients should have been evacuated to the hospital as soon as the nursing home's temperatures started rising.

Nine patients died. Nine elderly, helpless patients who were confined to bed. Who were (paying) professional people to take care of them, Owens, a retired nurse, said after Mondays hearing. Now no one is going to be responsible for their deaths. They died in vain.

During Mondays hearing, Morton tried to persuade Murphy that he had failed to consider the evidence in the light most favorable to the prosecution, as is required by law before a judge can issue a unilateral acquittal.

Morton said the evidence presented had shown that Carballo had warnings from his medical staff that the second-floor patients were overheating well before they began dying, but that he was more concerned about money than their health.

He called Carballo's behavior criminally despicable and negligent." He said that when the defense says there has never been a prosecution before in a case like this, that's "because no one has ever been so criminally neglectful to cause the deaths of multiple people.

He said Carballo didn't need a medical degree to understand that soaring temperatures could endanger elderly and frail patients.

You don't need a weatherman to tell you which way the wind is blowing, Morton said, paraphrasing Bob Dylan's Subterranean Homesick Blues.

Outside court but before the judge's ruling, Carballo attorney James Cobb blasted Morton's characterization of his client.

What is despicable in this case is that the state continues to pursue Mr. Carballo. He is presumed innocent. He has been innocent all along and now that we have a ruling from the court adjudicating him innocent, to come into this courtroom and say he is despicable is out of bounds and an abuse of prosecutorial discretion, Cobb said.
A federal judge on Friday declined to block a proposed Nevada lithium mine, the second consecutive defeat for a coalition of environmental groups seeking to halt the project.

In her ruling, Judge Miranda Du of the District of Nevada, an Obama appointee, sided with the Bureau of Land Management and Canada-based company Lithium Americas on beginning construction of a new lithium mine near the border with Oregon.

A coalition of ranchers and environmental organizations, including Wildlands Defense and the Western Watersheds Project, had asked Du to stop construction of the mine while an appeal in the 9th Circuit Court is pending.

Plaintiffs have failed to make a clear showing of entitlement to the extraordinary remedy of an injunction pending appeal, Du wrote. In their argument, she wrote, they failed to demonstrate the appeal is likely to succeed on merit.

The plaintiffs most persuasive argument, she wrote, was that allowing the project to proceed would cause environmental harms.

The Court again agrees with Environmental Plaintiffs, but only to a point. Specifically, the Court agrees  and understood when it issued the Merits Order several weeks ago  that the Merits Order would mean Lithium Nevada could start construction on the Project, and thus disrupt the sagebrush ecosystem within the Project area, she wrote. Court indeed expects that Lithium Nevada unfortunately will soon begin ripping out sage brush that will not grow back for a very long time.

On Feb. 6, Du had ruled that BLMs approval of the mine in Thacker Pass complied with federal law except in one part of its environmental review, ordering them to redo that section but leaving the approval in place in the meantime.

The Thacker Pass mine is the site of the largest known lithium deposit in the U.S., a prized commodity as demand for electric vehicles grows.

Todays ruling further underscores the fact that the permitting process for Thacker Pass was both comprehensive and proper. Were focused on moving ahead with construction, a spokesperson for Lithium Americas told The Hill in a statement.

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Environmental plaintiffs refiled their motion in the 9th Circuit Monday in response to the ruling.

The federal permitting process for the proposed Thacker Pass mine took just under a year, unlike the typical timeline of 3-5 years for a mine of this scale and complexity. As a result the environmental impact statement is inadequate and needs to be done correctly and legally, John Hadder, Director of Great Basin Resource Watch, said in a statement. It is not good for Nevadans nor for tackling climate change to permit a mine in the manner as done at Thacker Pass. Running over community concerns and ignoring significant damage to the environment is how we got into the climate situation that we are in now.

This story was updated at 3:28 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ABC/YouTube

American Idol got heated Sunday night when a contestant opened up about surviving a school shooting, bringing judge Katy Perry to angry tears.

Trey Louis, a 21-year-old native of Santa Fe, Texas, charmed the judgesPerry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richiewith his rendition of the country song Stone by Whiskey Myers. After receiving a standing ovation, Louis shared that he had survived a school shooting in Santa Fe that killed eight students and two teachers in 2018.

I was in art room one, and he shot up art room two, Louis said, visibly emotional, adding that he lost a lot of friends. The gunman, Dimitrios Pagourtzis, was charged with capital murder for the shooting at Santa Fe High School, and earlier this month was deemed incompetent to stand trial.

Upon hearing Louis story, Perry dissolved into tears and put her head on the desk in front of her before shouting, Our country has fucking failed us!

Facts, Louis responded.

This is not OK, Perry continued. You should be singing here because you love music, not because you had to go through that fucking bullshit. You didnt have to lose eight friends. I hope that you remind people that we have to change, cause you know, Im scared too.

Its terrible, Katy, Louis agreed. Its horrible.

As intense as Louis audition got, it did at least end happilythe judges all huddled around him and voted yes, sending him to Hollywood.

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Katy Perry was left angered and saddened by a recent American Idol season 21 audition.

On Sunday (26 February), standing before judges Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan, mattress salesman Trey Louis performed Stone by Whiskey Meyers.

After the 21-year-olds soulful rendition of the 2016 song brought the three judges to their feet, Bryan lauded his perfect voice, comparing it to that of Grammy-winning artist Chris Stapleton.

Why are you doing Idol? the Country Girl singer asked.

So American Idol, number one, is kinda where people that I enjoy make it, Louis explained.

Number two is, as I said before, Im from Santa Fe, Texas. In May 2018, a gunman walked into my school.

With his voice trembling, he continued: I was in art room one. He shot up art room two, before he made his way to art room one.

Trey Louis on American Idol (American Idol / YouTube)

Lost a lot of friends. Eight students were killed; two teachers were killed, and its just really been negative, man. Santa Fe has had a bad rap here since 2018.

Breaking down in tears, Perry held her head in her hands.

Our country has f***ing failed us! she yelled in between sobs. This is not ok. You should be singing here because you love music. Not because you had to go through that f***ing bulls***.

You didnt have to lose eight friends! she said. I hope that you remind people that we have to change because, you know what? Im scared too!

Richie added: We have tolerated this for so long, for too long. Its become a norm.

Weve gotta change. And I hope you can just lead. Can you do me that favour? Perry asked the contestant.

For myself, for my school, for you? You got it. Yes, maam, yes, maam, Louis responded.

The three then announced in unison: Youre going to Hollywood!

The 2018 Santa Fe shooting was considered the third deadliest high school shooting in the countrys history at the time.

Dimitrios Pagourtzis, who was 17 at the time, is the accused shooter who killed 10 classmates and teachers and wounded 13 others.

Nearly five years later, Pagourtzis has yet to stand trial as hes remained mentally incompetent to do so, according to the Galveston District Attorneys Office.
John Kerry, the U.S. special presidential envoy for climate, said in a new interview with The Boston Globe that he told President Biden that he will serve in his role through at least the United Nations climate summit in November.

Theres sufficient unfinished business that I felt it would be inappropriate to walk away from that at this point in time, he told the newspaper.

The climate summit, named COP28, will be held in Dubai later this year. Kerry, a former secretary of state and senator, said he hopes to promote new technologies and more funding to accelerate addressing climate change.

We absolutely understand the road ahead and what we need to do, and I think we can make this COP even more important in terms of eliciting increased ambition, he said. This has a chance of kicking everybody in the rear end and pushing this process into higher gear, which is where it needs to go.

My main objective is to raise the ante at this COP, so we are coming out of there with a head of steam on emissions reduction and finance, Kerry added. There are things that are riper, more compelling, more obvious, more necessary, more urgent.

Throughout his time in his role, Kerry has focused on building cooperation between nations to address the climate crisis, after former President Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris Accords, an international treaty on climate change.

In 2021, Kerry announced that China and the United States came to a surprise agreement on climate change that included phasing out coal and reducing methane emissions, and said that the world could not solve the climate crisis without China.

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John Kerry will stay in his role as President Joe Biden's special climate envoy at least through this year's United Nations climate talks set for December in Dubai, ending speculation that the United States' top climate change diplomat may soon depart.

Kerry recently informed Biden of his decision to stay in his post, he told The Boston Globe in a story published Sunday evening. Theres sufficient unfinished business that I felt it would be inappropriate to walk away from that at this point in time, Kerry said.

A State Department spokesperson confirmed the news that Kerry will stay on through the COP28 climate meeting, where nations will hold a "global stocktake" to assess the gap between their progress in combating climate change and the goals of the Paris climate agreement to keep temperatures "well below" 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Countries also will begin laying the stakes for climate finance pledges beyond 2025 at the Dubai conference.

Kerry's relationship with his Chinese counterpart, Xie Zhenhua, has been a rare bright spot between the United States and China. Kerry has sought to carve out a separate lane to discuss climate with China, the world's top emitter. He told The Boston Globe those talks have been paused for the past and was informed that Xie had been ill with Covid-19.

The future of natural gas and oil is sure to color the upcoming climate talks amid rising energy costs, energy security concerns stemming from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the UAE's role as a major hydrocarbon producer.

The decision to stay in his current role, however, will also open Kerry up to investigations by the Republican-led House, with House Oversight Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) already requesting documents and communication from Kerry's office. Kerry told the Globe "we have nothing to hide."
KATHMANDU, Nepal (AP)  A key party pulled out of Nepal's ruling coalition on Monday, forcing the prime minister to seek a vote of confidence in Parliament.

Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist), the biggest party in Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal's coalition, was angered by his decision to back an opposition candidate in next week's presidential election.

It is the third party to withdraw from the government since it was formed in December, after no party managed to secure a majority in the November parliamentary elections.

Political turmoil and frequent changes in government are nothing new in Nepal, where eight different governments have ruled in the past 10 years.

It was not clear if Dahal would manage to stay in power. The constitution says he would have to seek a vote of confidence within a month to secure support of the majority of the 275 members in the House of Representatives, the lower chamber of Parliament.

Dahal recently got the backing of the Nepali Congress party, the largest group in Parliament, after agreeing to back their candidate for president.
Milan, ITALY - *EXCLUSIVE* - Kim Kardashian turns heads as she graces the Dolce & Gabbana fashion show in Milan, looking fiery in a dazzling jeweled outfit that left everyone in awe. The reality TV queen proves once again that she's a fashion icon to reckon with! Pictured: Kim Kardashian BACKGRID USA 25 FEBRUARY 2023 BYLINE MUST READ: WWW.LUCASGRO.EU / BACKGRID USA: +1 310 798 9111 / usasales@backgrid.com UK: +44 208 344 2007 / uksales@backgrid.com *UK Clients - Pictures Containing Children Please Pixelate Face Prior To Publication*

WWW.LUCASGRO.EU / BACKGRID

Kim Kardashian avoided a potentially disastrous moment at Milan Fashion Week.

The Kardashians star, 42, struggled walking up the stairs at Saturday's Dolce & Gabbana F/W 2023 runway show as she sported a skintight jeweled red vintage dress by the designer, which she had deconstructed into a two-piece ensemble.

"Round two. Come on," said Kardashian as she attempted to climb the steps in a since-expired video from hairstylist Chris Appleton's Instagram Story, which was shared by Page Six.

RELATED: Kim Kardashian Shares Sultry New Bikini Pics Taken by 'Long Handed' Sister Kendall Jenner

Appleton, 39, supported her from behind, telling Kardashian: "Go on, girl. You got this."

The near fashion emergency came after her sister Kendall Jenner had a similar mishap in another Dolce & Gabbana dress while walking up some stairs at Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker's Portofino, Italy wedding last May.

Kim explained to Vogue in a backstage video that her D&G number was made circa 1994 and it was originally a long dress, explaining they "kind of modernized it a little bit, made it a crop."

RELATED: See Kendall Jenner Make Rare Runway Appearance at Prada Show During Milan Fashion Week

The look was completed with a mini handbag made in the same material, and Kardashian noted she had had versions made for her daughters North West, 9, and 5-year-old Chicago, which will make her "look like the best mom ever."

The SKIMS mogul said she also hopes her kids will wear the dress one day, after it goes into her Dolce & Gabbana archive following Saturday's runway show.

RELATED VIDEO: Kim Kardashian and North West Team Up for Another TikTok Dance: 'The Things North Makes Me Do'

"I hope my kids want to wear [it] one day. I hope North and Chicago, they can wear this to prom, they can wear this to a formal dance school, they can wear it to whatever they want," added Kardashian. "They can wear it on a night out clubbing. I'm not gonna be stingy with my Dolce archive."

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.

Kim shares North and Chicago, as well as sons Saint, 7, and 3-year-old Psalm with ex-husband Kanye West.
Aaron Chown/Pool via REUTERS

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It has not taken long in his reign for King Charles III to ignite a firestorm about how he views his future role. By lending his name and his castle to consecrate a controversial political deal he has crossed a line his mother, Elizabeth II, would never have thought of crossing.

The deal signed between his prime minister, Rishi Sunak, and the president of the European Union, Ursula von der Leyen, was vital to clean up the lingering mess of Brexit, particularly its damage to the economy of Northern Ireland.

In a normal world, this deal would have been signed at 10 Downing Street. But this has ceased to be a normal world, and Sunak moved the venue to Windsor, to get the kings imprimatur as the Windsor Framework. That was followed by von der Leyen joining the king for tea at Windsor Castle.

King Charles Ripped for Having Tea With EU Chief During Critical Brexit Visit

The whole idea was that the two most hostile political factions to the deal, the Democratic Unionist Party in Northern Ireland, and the lunatic fringe of Brexiteers in Sunaks Tory party, would be more reluctant to attack it if had the royal seal of approval. By going along with this, Charles has torn away one of the few very explicit tenets of the artfully misty British Constitutionthat the monarch is always above politics and should never reveal their feelings on any issue. For seventy years his mother meticulously upheld that rule. Now it lies in tatters.

Whose idea was this?

In briefings, both sidesDowning Street and the kings spokespersonshave said the initiative was the others. (This confusion became even more suspect when it was reported that the tea for two meeting was requested by von der Leyen.) If neither Downing Street nor the palace was keen to own it, you can be sure that they both suddenly realized that that they had stepped into a minefield without a map.

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And, sure enough, a chorus of alarm is shaking the foundations of Westminster. I have to admit that I never imagined the day would come when I could agree with one of the most eccentric and atavistic of Brexit supporters, the former Tory cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg. But he was absolutely spot-on: The sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted, he told GB News. The king gives assent to acts of parliament when parliament has agreed, he doesnt express his view on acts of parliament when they are going through the process.

For example, in 1972, soon after Britain finally negotiated entry to what was then called the European Common Market, Queen Elizabeth was sent to Paris to make nice to the French, who had for years resisted Britains admission to the club. She was a smash hit. At a banquet at Versailles she told the French president, Georges Pompidou, We may drive on different sides of the road, but we are going the same way.

The queen had followed the rules, and then played her part as only she knew how, to great acclaim on both sides of the Channel.

Charles must be fully aware of the cost to him of ignoring this precedent. After all, whoever dreamed up the idea for the Windsor show, he could have said no.

There are two influences at work on him. The first is his own notion of the need to modernize the monarchy. That involves dismantling the overpopulated and over-indulged scale of the royal household and his many free-loading relatives. But  in his eyes  it also involves an ambition to make himself seem more relevant by looking like a progressive influence on British and world politics. (The palace flacks have emphasized that, in his chat with von der Leyen he would display his passion about dealing effectively with climate change.)

The second influence melds with and reinforces the first. By far the most influential voice among those who counsel the king is his private secretary, Clive Alderton. Alderton has worked closely with Charles and Camilla since 2015 (he is credited with the slippery term recollections may vary in the queens response to charges of racism in the royal household by Meghan and Harry).

Before Alderton joined Charless office he was a long-time career diplomat, an unusual background for a private secretary. (The queens last private secretary, Edward Young, had been a banker and a media consultant). By all accounts he is a great believer in the soft power value of the monarchyusing the head of state to schmooze and mingle with world leaders, as the queen so frequently did.

Indeed, the queen became accepted as a world leader herself and there is nothing that Charles would relish more than enjoying the same status. The trouble is that his mother earned that rank after years of experience and sticking closely to the rules.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak walks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor, Britain, February 27, 2023. Dan Kitwood/Pool via REUTERS

Another sign that Charles has been steered to a role that helps the government more than it helps him is that although his first overseas tour was expected to be to key parts of the British Commonwealth, like Australia, Canada and Africa, he will instead visit Paris and Berlin next month. Hell have a job explaining and defending an act of self-harm as crazy as Brexit.

The governments priorities were also behind the first state visit in Charless reign for a foreign head of state, by Cyril Ramaphosa, the president of South Africa, in November. On the face of it, this seemed a puzzling choice for the king, as head of the Commonwealth, because South Africa is hardly a role model of good governance. State services like the railways and power grid have fallen apart because of being gutted by corruption. But the British government was more alarmed by watching South Africa fall more and more under the influence of China and Russia, and hoped that a banquet at Buckingham Palace might help to woo Ramaphosa back into the fold. That hasnt happened.

The king is in a bind. Its very hard for him to follow such a consummate monarch as his mother. But this is not his mothers Britain anymore. One of her few missteps came in 2019 when she was conned by the mendacious prime minister Boris Johnson into suspending parliament for six weeks while he was struggling to wrap up Brexit. That move was later ruled illegal by the British supreme court and, as a result, the dying queen loathed Johnson.

This was, however, an omen that the ruling Tory party had become less scrupulous about how it respected the traditional relationship between the monarch, as head of state, and political leaders. This time, Charles seems to have been more of a willing party to their manipulation than his mother was. Sunak shrewdly played to his hunger for a meaningful role. But it might well turn out that the cup of tea he shared with von der Leyen at Windsor Castle was, in fact, a poisoned chalice.

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Chris Jackson/Reuters

King Charles III will have tea with the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Monday during her visit to the U.K. to unveil an enhanced Brexit deal, a Buckingham Palace source told The Daily Beast.

The English monarchs meeting with von der Leyen at Windsor Castle has triggered furious backlash from critics alarmed by Charles perceived intrusion into political matters. The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so, the palace source said.

King Charles Wont Have Time for Coronation Meeting With Prince Harry

At a joint news conference on Monday afternoon, Von der Leyen and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed a decisive breakthrough on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland.

Part of the Brexit deal agreed by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson known as the Northern Ireland Protocol has created constitutional chaos ever since the U.K. left the European Union. The protocol dictates trade arrangements for how goods move between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K., with some EU laws still followed by Northern Ireland in order to allow goods to move over the border into the Republic of Ireland without checks.

But goods arriving into Northern Ireland from Britain are subject to checks under the protocols rulesa policy that has angered critics in Northern Ireland who argue it undermines their countrys place in the U.K. The Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has even blocked the formation of a power-sharing government as a result, creating political deadlock.

In announcing the new deal, Sunak said his new dealcalled the Windsor Frameworkwould protect Northern Irelands place in the Union. Von der Leyen in turn said the agreement would benefit people in Northern Ireland and support all communities celebrating peace on the island of Ireland, the BBC reports.

Sunak also confirmed that British lawmakers would also get a chance to vote on the Windsor Framework. But its unclear if the agreement will be supported by the DUP and hardline Brexiteers in Sunaks own Conservative Party. And Charles meeting with von der Leyen has already been met with disdain by critics who see the move as an unnecessary politicization of the sovereign before his coronation has even taken place.

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Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and former first minister of Northern Ireland, on Monday tweeted that she couldnt quite believe that Downing Street would ask Charles to become involved in finalizing such a controversial deal. Its crass and will go down very badly in [Northern Ireland], Foster added.

Over the weekend, when Charles meeting was still just a rumor, arch-Brexiteer and Tory lawmaker Jacob Rees-Mogg said such a meeting was on the borderline of constitutional propriety, according to The Times. Speaking on Monday to GB News, Rees-Mogg added: I think the sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted.

Nigel Farage, the former leader of the UK Independence Party (UKIP) who was instrumental in campaigning for the U.K. to leave the EU in the first place, said in a video shared on his Twitter account that he thinks it is absolutely disgraceful of Rishi Sunak to even ask the king to get involved in something that is overtly political in every way.

At a media briefing on Monday, Sunaks spokesperson defended his decision to advise the king to meet with von der Leyen, suggesting the meeting was fundamentally at the palaces discretion. The spokesperson added that Sunak firmly believes its for the king to make those decisions, the Guardian reports.

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King Charles III receives European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen during an audience at Windsor Castle - Aaron Chown

The King welcomed European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to Windsor Castle after she agreed a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland with Rishi Sunak.

His Majesty was pictured warmly shaking hands with Ms von der Leyen at the royal residence after she held a joint press conference with Mr Sunak to outline the political development.

A palace spokesman said: The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain, and it is the Governments advice that he should do so.

Palace sources have stressed that the Kings involvement would not be political, that he would not be involved in negotiations and that he always remained mindful of constitutional responsibilities.

Palace sources stressed that the King would not be involved in negotiations - Aaron Chown

His Majesty has met Mrs von der Leyen on several previous occasions, and is said to have been keen to catch up and develop their cordial relationship while she was in Windsor.

It comes after Rishi Sunak was accused of dragging the King into politics by involving him in the historic occasion, raising questions about the judgment of both Number 10 and the Palace.

Critics warned that the Kings involvement would give the impression he had given the deal his blessing.

Ursula von der Leyen will meet the King after her talks with Rishi Sunak - Dan Kitwood/Pool via Reuters

Palace sources insisted that the meeting was organised on the advice of the Government, which suggested it was a good opportunity for the pair to discuss a broad range of issues, including climate change and the situation in Ukraine.

Mrs von der Leyen will be greeted on arrival at the castle by the Kings equerry and his private secretary. The timing of their meeting will coincide with the conclusion of engagements elsewhere.

Given the tight timetable and the many other commitments of the King, the Prime Minister and Mrs von der Leyen, there will be no further in-person meetings involving His Majesty.

However, the Prime Minister will keep him up to date on all Government and state matters as always, sources confirmed.

It comes after the palace confirmed that contingency plans had been made for the King to meet Mrs von der Leyen at Windsor Castle on Saturday before sign-off of the deal was delayed. It has been suggested that the deal could be called the Windsor Agreement.

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Sammy Wilson, the Democratic Unionist Party chief whip, warned that the meeting risked dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

Arlene Foster, former first minister of Northern Ireland, tweeted: I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government, who it appears are tone deaf.

Jacob Rees-Mogg, a leading Tory Brexiteer, also said it would be a mistake for Ms von der Leyen to meet the King during her UK visit.

The former Cabinet minister told GB News: I think the sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted.

The King gives assent to Acts of Parliament when Parliament has agreed, he doesnt express his view on Acts of Parliament when they are going through the process. I think the same applies, that His Majesty should not be involved until there is full support for this agreement.
jk78 / Getty Images/iStockphoto

If you plan to deposit $10,000 or more into your checking account, there are a few things you should consider first. By law, banks have to report deposits that exceed a certain amount.

Stimulus 2023: Updates To Know Now

Find Out: How To Guard Your Wealth From a Potential Banking Crisis With Gold

Not only that, but many bank accounts come with maximum deposit restrictions. You may also be subject to certain fees when making such a large deposit. If you frequently make large deposits, you should also watch out for any potential scams or fraudulent activity. But even if this is a one-time thing, its still important to know about these factors and how they might affect you.

Banks Must Report Large Deposits

According to the Bank Secrecy Act, banks are required to file Currency Transaction Reports (CTR) for any cash deposits over $10,000, said Lyle Solomon, principal attorney at Oak View Law Group. CTRs typically include the name of the individual, their account number, Social Security number and taxpayer identification number  all of which are verified and recorded by the bank.

Banks must file CTRs to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), which is part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Some banks will do this manually, while others will automate the process.

The creation of a CTR does not mean that your account will be frozen, nor that the Men in Black will be visiting your home, said Herman (Tommy) Thompson Jr., CFP, ChSNC, ChFC certified financial planner at Innovative Financial Group. For banks, its considered standard procedure and isnt a cause for concern if the deposit is legitimate.

These procedures exist to help prevent money laundering, counterfeit deposits and similar financial crimes from occurring. By requiring banks to report deposits of $10,000 or more, the government can more easily keep track of monetary transactions. As long as your deposits are legitimate, you wont have anything to worry about.

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Structuring Is Illegal

Some people will try to avoid the federal cash-reporting rules by making smaller deposits that total $10,000 or more over a short period  say, a few days or weeks. This is known as structuring and is considered illegal. Structuring is essentially the practice of conducting financial transactions in a specific pattern calculated to avoid the creation of certain records and reports, according to the IRS, said Solomon.

Sean K. August, CEO of The August Wealth Management Group, added to this by saying that depositing $8,000 in an attempt to avoid the $10,000 AML (Anti-Money Laundering) limit is a form of structuring, which is also illegal. If the bank suspects that you are trying to avoid the $10,000 limit by making multiple deposits of less than $10,000, they may still report the transaction to FinCEN, and you may face penalties and legal consequences.

If you make multiple smaller deposits to avoid a CTR, your bank could file a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR). Once received, FinCEN will investigate the activity to determine whether your account is involved in any fraud, money laundering or terrorist funding. Your bank is not required to notify you of this.

You May Need To Provide Additional Documentation

You may be asked to provide additional information about the source of the funds, such as invoices, receipts, or other documentation, August said. Providing this information can also help the government identify potential red flags, such as illegal or fraudulent activity. Its a good idea to keep records of any transactions over $10,000 for tax-related reasons.

Businesses Must File Form 8300

By law, individuals, businesses and trades must file Form 8300 to the IRS within 15 days of receiving a cash sum of $10,000 or more. This form is meant to help prevent money laundering.

Everyone involved in the transaction will also need to provide a written statement to be filed along with Form 8300. If you are required to file but do not, you may face criminal or civil penalties.

Your Bank Account May Have Limits

Certain bank accounts come with a maximum deposit limit. Each institution has its own rules on this. For example, some banks might have different limitations based on if the deposit was done by cash or check.

Verify with your bank that you can deposit $10,000 or more into your account. Depending on your bank and the specific amount you have, you may be charged fees or penalties for making large deposits, Solomon said. Review your accounts terms and conditions or ask your bank about potential fees before depositing the money.

Not All Bank Accounts Are Secured

If youre planning to deposit large sums of money into a bank account, make sure its secured. Any bank you use should be FDIC-insured. This means the money in your accounts  checking, savings, money market, etc.  is automatically protected up to a certain amount (usually $250,000 or more) against bank failure. While the FDIC does not insure financial losses caused by fraud or theft, your bank should have other safeguards in place to secure your money.

Watch Out for Scams and Fraud

Unfortunately, scams and fraudulent activity are rather common when dealing with large sums of money. Always verify the legitimacy of the transaction and the source of the funds before depositing the money, August said.

There are several common types of scams out there. Confirm where the money is coming from, especially if its in a large amount. If the source of the funds is unclear or suspicious, be careful, Solomon said. For example, if someone offers to pay you a large sum of money for a service or product, or if you receive an unexpected windfall from an unknown source, its important to be cautious and investigate the situation further.

If you receive a check, make sure its legitimate as well. Some scammers will send a check for you to deposit and ask you to send back some of that money. By the time either you or the bank realizes it was a fraudulent check, its often too late and your moneys already gone.

Availability of Funds

After depositing a large amount of money, its natural to want to know when youll have access to it. This depends on the deposit type and the banks policies.

Large transactions usually have a hold period of 2-7 days to verify the authenticity of the check and the ability of the payor to meet the obligation, Thompson said. A bank can make the hold longer under special circumstances, but that is fairly rare.

Cash deposits might be available more quickly. Checks, meanwhile, might take several days to clear and for the funds to show up in your bank account. When in doubt, contact your bank and ask when the money will be available.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: What To Know If You Deposit More Than $10K Into Your Checking Account
Story at a glance

Half a million people each year will contract a brain-swelling emergency, and nearly half of them wont survive.

The potentially deadly affliction can be brought on by factors ranging from mosquito bites to COVID-19 and other illnesses.

But many doctors still dont know the symptoms of encephalitis.

NEW YORK (WPIX)  Half a million people each year will contract a brain-swelling emergency, and nearly half of them wont survive. The potentially deadly affliction can be brought on by factors ranging from mosquito bites to COVID-19 and other illnesses, leaving some patients with symptoms including suicidal thoughts.

But many doctors still dont know the symptoms of encephalitis. A Queens, New York, student is sharing her story in hopes of helping others recognize the signs and seek potentially life-saving aid.

A rising concern: NY lawmaker on new skin-eating street drug tranq

St. Johns University student Michelle Bravo-Cano was studying abroad for a semester in Paris  living a dream come true. But the experience quickly turned into a nightmare when she began having bizarre episodes.

I was an insomniatic mess. I wasnt sleeping for days on end, Bravo-Cano told WPIX, adding that she also lost her appetite and experienced hallucinations.

Bravo-Canos new friends in Paris didnt know her well enough to intervene, and the symptoms only grew when she returned home.

She had undiagnosed encephalitis, the symptoms of which can mimic a mental health crisis, often delaying the true treatment needed to save lives.

Bravo-Canos mother, a doctor and internist, was afraid of what the stigma of a mental health diagnosis might mean for her daughter.

One time I told her that somethings wrong, said Bravo-Cano. And she said, Dont tell anybody or youll be sent to the psych ward.'

But Bravo-Canos erratic behavior exploded over a family Christmas trip to Ecuador, and upon returning home she collapsed and was rushed to the hospital.

Story continues

I couldnt feel my legs, she said. I started screaming, Im dying, Im dying.

Bravo-Cano was finally admitted to a Manhattan psychiatric ward and placed on drugs that typically calm the brain in a mental health crisis. But her symptoms didnt improve.

Finally, a physician said her bodys immune system might actually be attacking her brain, causing encephalitis. Body scans revealed the source: a growth on Bravo-Canos ovary known as a teratoma. She underwent immediate surgery but was still in grave condition.

I had multi-organ failure, she said. I stopped breathing. My heart stopped.

Missing Queens man underwent 3 brain surgeries after 911 call, family says

While one person contracts encephalitis every minute worldwide, the ability to recognize and treat it remains woefully inadequate, according to a recent study.

It can be caused by a persons own immune system going wrong and attacking the brain in error, said Ava Easton of The Encephalitis Society. People might be behaving out of character, but theyll often have other difficulties, profound sleep problems. They might be beginning to struggle with their memory.

Bravo-Cano spent two months in the hospital, followed by many more in treatment and rehab. She still has lingering, but manageable depression. Others, however, may experience suicidal thoughts.

But she is also happily pursuing a law degree and encouraging people to know the signs of this widely misunderstood, but potentially deadly affliction.

The disease can strike anyone at any age, and more than 250,000 people in the U.S. were diagnosed with it during the past decade. Early treatment can save lives and improve outcomes. To prevent infection from viral sources, staying up to date on vaccinations is encouraged.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
MOSCOW (Reuters) -The Kremlin gave a lukewarm response to a Chinese plan to end the war in Ukraine, calling for a study of nuances of the proposal that urges both sides to agree to a gradual de-escalation and warns against the use of nuclear weapons.

China, which declared a "no limits" alliance with Russia shortly before Moscow sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine a year ago, called for a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine on Friday, touting its own peace plan.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in remarks published on Tuesday that Beijing's voice should be heard, but the nuances of the proposal are important.

"Any attempt to formulate theses for reaching a peaceful settlement of the problem is welcome, but, of course, the nuances are important," Peskov told the Izvestia daily.

Earlier, Peskov said any such initiatives that might bring peace closer were worthy of attention.

"We are paying a great deal of attention to the plan of our Chinese friends," Peskov told reporters on Monday. "Of course, the details need to be painstakingly analysed taking into account the interests of all the different sides. This is a very long and intense process."

He said Russia was continuing to prosecute what it calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine, and for now didn't see any signs suggesting a peaceful resolution could be achieved.

Beijing has refused to condemn Russia's actions, most recently at a weekend meeting of the Group of Twenty (G20) major economies.

(Reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin; Writing by Alexander Marrow; Editing by Kevin Liffey, Andrew Osborn and Sandra Maler)
MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Monday it was worried about the state of affairs in Moldova's breakaway Transdniestria region, where it said Ukraine and other European countries were stirring up the situation.

Moscow last week told the West that it would view any actions that threatened Russian peacekeepers in Transdniestria as an attack on Russia itself, a warning that came amid increased concerns in Moldova, a small ex-Soviet republic located between Romania and Ukraine, of a possible Russian threat.

Moldova's pro-European president, Maia Sandu, this month accused Moscow of plotting a coup, something Russia denied.

"Naturally, the situation in Transdniestria is the subject of our closest attention and a reason for our concern," Peskov told reporters. "The situation is unsettled, it is being provoked, provoked from outside.

"But we know that our opponents in the Ukrainian regime, the Kyiv regime, as well as those in European countries, are capable of various types of provocation."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has dismissed Moscow's assertion that Ukraine wants to take over the region, while Moldova sad there was no truth to the allegations.

Vadim Krasnoselsky, the self-styled president of Transdniestria, had earlier described the situation in the region as tense, but urged people to remain calm and said that citizens would be informed immediately should any threat of danger arise, the Russian state-run RIA Novosti news agency reported.

(Reporting by Vladimir Soldatkin and Jake Cordell; Writing by Alexander Marrow; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
FONTANA, Calif. (AP)  Kyle Busch still smiles at the memory of getting thrown out of California Speedway during his first competitive trip here in 2001. The 16-year-old upstart dominated a NASCAR Truck Series practice, only to be told he couldn't run in a race sponsored by Marlboro because he was too young to smoke.

That was my Welcome to NASCAR moment and my Welcome to California Speedway moment, Busch said.

Anger, conflict and disrespect have always appeared to be Busch's favorite fuels, and the record-setting veteran burned plenty of them Sunday while rewarding his new team  and sending this beloved track off in style.

Busch stormed up from the back after an early speeding penalty to earn his first victory for Richard Childress Racing, winning on this two-mile Southern California track for the fifth and final time.

Busch held off Chase Elliott and Ross Chastain in the NASCAR Cup Series' final race on the gloriously weathered asphalt at Auto Club Speedway, which will soon be demolished to make room for a proposed half-mile track. Busch asked Fontana officials for a chunk of that asphalt as a souvenir after he burned it up one last time on his way to Victory Lane.

Thats what I enjoy the most about this racetrack, Busch said. Its big. It gets spread out. But man, you can move around and you can spread out and you can make your own destiny by trying to find something that will work for your race car. Its a sad day for me to see this racetrack in its last race being a two-mile configuration. Glad I was able to win the final run here.

Busch drove his Chevrolet to victory in only his second race with RCR, which scooped him up in December after his 15-year tenure with Joe Gibbs Racing ended. This win was Buschs first since Bristol last season on a dirt track, and his first on pavement since Pocono in 2021.

With his 61st career victory, Busch earned a win in his record 19th consecutive Cup season, breaking a tie with Richard Petty. Busch said he set his focus on Petty's longevity record a long, long time ago.

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Im just so thankful for the opportunity to set that bar, and would love to continue to keep raising it, Busch said.

The victory also was the combined 95th win by Kyle and Kurt Busch, breaking the NASCAR record for brothers previously held by Bobby and Donnie Allison.

Elliott finished 2.998 seconds behind Busch in his Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet. Daniel Suarez finished fourth, and Kevin Harvick was fifth in the Bakersfield native's 750th Cup start.

Congratulations to Kyle," Elliott said. For him to leave and then to go get the job done like that is pretty cool. Hes always been really good to me, so happy for them.

After that teenage trouble, the Las Vegas native has enjoyed plenty of highlights down the I-15 at Fontana. Busch got his first Cup victory at this speedway back in 2005 in a Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, and only Jimmie Johnson (6) earned more Cup victories here.

Even the California fans appreciate a driver who typically gets boos after his triumphs: Fontana serenaded him with cheers as he claimed another surfboard trophy.

"There's nothing more rewarding than being able to go to Victory Lane," Busch said. I death-gripped that wheel throughout the second half of that race, but we got the victory.

Busch was sent to the back early in the race for speeding on pit road, and the penalty infuriated him. To absolutely nobody's surprise, he roared through the field in response, passing Michael McDowell for the lead with 20 laps to go.

That's why he's won as many races as he has, said Randall Burnett, Busch's crew chief. Because he always pushes it to the limit.

GOODBYE FONTANA

The traditional five-wide salute before the race carried added poignancy because of the finality of this race: NASCAR is shutting down the track built by Roger Penske with vague plans to build a new track in its place, along with selling off much of the surrounding property.

The decision brings an end to an entertaining era for stock car racing in Southern California's rich car culture. The big track east of Los Angeles is a favorite of nearly every racer in multiple disciplines, with its coarse grip and wide-open spaces creating impressive racing for a quarter-century.

NASCAR currently has nowhere to race in the area in 2024, and the new track might not even be ready by 2025  if it happens at all.

DRY SUNDAY

A week of unusual rainstorms and occasional snow finally abated Saturday night, and NASCAR dried the asphalt impressively before the race. Although sand and debris bothered some drivers, the track even managed to avoid any major problems from collected rainwater weeping out of cracks in the track.

BIG CRASH

The race featured a major wreck out of a restart shortly before the midway point involving 10 cars, the most in any collision in a Cup race at Fontana. Four drivers  including pole-sitter Christopher Bell  couldn't continue after the wreck that sent several cars skidding into across infield.

FOR STARTERS

Defending champion Kyle Larson was out of contention after developing engine trouble on the opening laps. Shortly after Brad Keselowski spun from contact with Corey LaJoie, Busch was sent to the back.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Kyle Busch celebrates in victory lane after winning Sunday's NASCAR Cup race at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)

As farewells go, it was chilly. And weepy.

The Fontana air had a pronounced bite Sunday for the last NASCAR race on the venerable two-mile Auto Club Speedway oval, less than 24 hours after snow improbably blanketed much of the Inland Empire.

The track wept, and that isnt an attempt at personification. Trapped rainwater from the last few days seeped from under cracks and seams in the porous, 26-year-old asphalt, forming what drivers call weepers  slick, wet spots that can cause a driver to lose control, especially when tire treads become worn.

But the track was drivable, and competitors can read it and weep: Kyle Busch ended a mini slump, winning going away.

Who could be surprised that Busch took the last Auto Club 400 even though he is coming off a down season in which he won only one Cup Series race? It was his fifth Auto Club victory, including his first Cup Series win in 2005 and his 200th overall win in 2019.

It also was his first win in just his third race with Richard Childress Racing after 15 years with Joe Gibbs Racing.

"That all makes it memorable," Busch said. "I love California and this speedway has always been great to me. The fans here have been great."

The win enabled him to reach other milestones. It marked the 19th season in a row that he has won a Cup Series race, one year longer than that of previous record-holder Richard Petty. It also was the 95th Cup Series victory for brothers Kyle and Kurt Busch, breaking the record held by Bobby and Donnie Allison.

Kurt Busch greeted Kyle with a hug in victory lane.

Kyle Busch performs a burnout near the start/finish line after winning at Fontana on Sunday. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)

Kyle Busch celebrates with the checkered flag on the track after winning Sunday. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)

"It's neat to have him be there," Kyle said. "He was emotional, hes getting soft in his old age. Its fun to set records always, and when youre able to do it as a brother tandem, theres nothing more special for our parents, Im sure."

Chase Elliott finished second with a strong final 30 laps and was followed by Ross Chastain and Kevin Harvick.

The track conditions were fine," Harvick said. "I didnt really see weepers and it was just really dirty every run. The second half of the race it cleaned up, but it was hard on the windshields. In the end, they did a great job preparing the track and we were able to put on a good race.

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Crews got to work Sunday at 5:30 a.m. to stem the tears, employing enormous track-drying apparatuses  Air Tundras, Buffalo Turbine Blowers, Jet Dryers and a sweeper truck. They also used hand saws and drills to create troughs in the track where water could drain from outside banks to the apron.

The Cup Series race started on time at 12:30 p.m. in front of a sellout crowd of about 50,000, and the drivers lined up five wide during pace laps before the drop of the green flag, an impressive sight meant to salute the fans that supported the two-mile track since it opened in 1997.

The track was reasonably dry and occasional weepers werent the only problem. By Lap 40, the front of cars looked like theyd been sandblasted, and pit crews had to be mindful not to slip on debris that shook out of grills during stops.

A view of the snowy San Bernardino Mountains from Auto Club Speedway in Fontana on Feb. 26, 2023. (Steve Henson / Los Angeles Times)

In his last season as a Cup Series driver, Harvick was making his 750th consecutive start, making him the third driver to reach the milestone. He and Busch were first and second with 62 laps to go after Chastain had led most of the race.

But an aggressive move by Chastain pushed back Harvick for good and Busch for an eyeblink. Busch slipped to seventh but quickly moved back to second, hanging right on Chastains tail.

Busch was not to be denied the final victory on an oval beloved by drivers.

"There were a couple moments where I got loose," he said. "I about busted my ass on that last run. So I was like, please dont. But fortunately was able to hang on well enough and tried to find another groove that my car would work better in, so it was always a constant evolution of where you needed to be and just trying to work.

"Thats what I enjoy the most about this racetrack. ... Its big, it gets spread out, but man, you can move around and you can spread out and you can make your own destiny by trying to find something else that will help work for your race car. Its a sad day for me to see this racetrack be in its last race being a two-mile configuration. Glad I was able to win the final run here."

Although NASCAR could abandon the project until ground is broken, the plan is to reduce the track from two miles to a half-mile and modernize the speedway so that races appeal to a broad demographic, not just hardcore NASCAR fans.

NASCAR confirmed Friday it has sold most of the Auto Club Speedway land to its business partner Hillwood, a Dallas-based company that is helping NASCAR sell properties nationwide. NASCAR will retain 89 of the more than 500 acres and says it will continue with plans to develop the half-mile track.

Early on Sunday caution flags came out nearly as often as they do at a short track. The sixth caution came after several cars spun out into the infield on a restart. The leaders didnt speed up as fast as expected going into the green flag, squeezing everyone behind them like an accordion. It resulted in the largest wreck ever in an Auto Club Speedway Cup race and sent to the sidelines Christopher Bell, Tyler Reddick, Ryan Preece and Aric Almirola.

I think the leader was just playing games, trying to prevent the runs coming from behind and they stopped in the middle of the restart zone right about where they should have been accelerating, Almirola said. Everybody just started stacking up and you cant stop on a dime."

Busch had nothing to do with the wreck and avoided the congestion. Buschs nickname is Rowdy, and many wrongly assume it is a nod to his aggression on the track and rather cocky attitude. He came up with it because Rowdy Burns was his favorite character in Days of Thunder.

Coincidentally, actor Michael Rooker, who played legendary driver Rowdy Burns in the movie, gave the command for drivers to start their engines Sunday. Three hours and eight minutes later, one driver was doing a burnout on his victory lap, providing the final memory on an iconic track. The crowd cheered.

"Yeah, man, Rowdy Nation is growing, loud and proud," Busch said. "Watch out, were going to take over."

Busch asked speedway President Dave Allen for a chunk of the track when it is torn out.

"As special as this place has been to me with five wins here, it would be pretty meaningful, and winning the last one was super meaningful to me," he said. "It's not all that glamorous or cool looking. Its a piece of asphalt. But its still a memory."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Photo: CTV News Vancouver

According to CTV News Vancouver, Four people were sent to the hospital Sunday afternoon after a home went up in flames in Abbotsford.

The fire was reportedly started just before 2 p.m. and six ambulances were dispatched to respond, a spokesperson for BC EHS told CTV News.

The fire occurred at a home along Tessaro Crescent near Old Yale Road.

The Abbotsford Police Department was also called to assist with traffic.

The fire is believed to be not suspicious in nature.

The injuries of the people involved are unknown at this time.

-CTV News Vancouver
Angela Rayner speaking at the launch of Labour's 5 Missions for a Better Britain campaign - Dominic Lipinski/Getty Images Europe

Menopausal women will be given new rights such as being allowed to work from home if they are struggling with symptoms, under Labour plans.

Launching the policy on Tuesday, Angela Rayner, the partys deputy leader, will say that middle-aged women should not have to suffer in silence and instead should be supported to thrive in the workplace.

This could include being allowed to work flexible hours, with more breaks, and having paid time off for health appointments.

It could also mean allowing female workers adjustments to their uniforms and more rights over temperature control in the workplace, such as being allowed access to a fan to cope with hot flushes.

Under a Labour government, all companies with over 250 employees will be required to submit an annual action plan that sets out what adjustments they are making to support their female employees going through menopause.

It will be up to each organisation to set out how they will support women experiencing menopause, but companies will be expected to include things like giving the option of flexible or remote working.

One in 10 female workers left their jobs due to menopausal symptoms in 2022, according to a recent survey of over 4,000 women aged 45-55.

The research, carried out by Savanta ComRes for Channel 4, found that 14 per cent of women had reduced their hours at work, 14 per cent had gone part-time, and eight per cent had not applied for promotion.

Meanwhile, the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show that almost a third (31.7 per cent) of women aged 50-64 are economically inactive.

Ms Rayner, Labours shadow secretary of state for the future of work, said the number of women leaving the workforce is skyrocketing while productivity is plummeting because employees are not getting the support they need.

This is bad for women, bad for business and bad for our economy. Everyone should be supported to thrive at work. But all too often, women going through the menopause are being let down, she said.

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I know from working with many incredible women how hard it is to get on at work every day, whilst battling severe symptoms including depression, joint pain and extreme fatigue. It happens in every workplace, but too often women suffer in silence.

Research suggests that menopause costs the economy 10 billion a year in sick leave and through the costs of replacing those who leave work.

A study by the Fawcett Society found that one in 10 women are forced out of work because of a lack of suitable support.

Menopause is a natural part of ageing for women and typically occurs between 45 and 55 years of age when their periods stop due to lower hormone levels.

Research by the Menopause Society suggests that half of women taking time off because of debilitating symptoms would not tell their employer the real reason.

Keep more people in work

Last year, the NHS issued its first ever national guidance on menopause which said that health service employers should consider any reasonable adjustments to their working pattern including shorter hours, flexible breaks and remote working.

The NHS is the biggest employer of women in Britain. Of its 1.3 million staff, more than one million are female. One in five of all employees are women of menopausal age.

Launching the policy in November, the chief executive of NHS England said female health workers should not be expected to just grin and bear it and she urged other employers to follow suit.

Ms Rayner said Labours proposals are a simple and effective way for employers to support the wellbeing of their female workers.

We want to work with businesses and trade unions to bring about practical solutions like this to improve productivity, keep more people in work and ultimately grow our economy for all, she said.
Ellie and Riley ride a carousel in episode 7 of "The Last of Us." Liane Hentscher/HBO

"The Last of Us" episode seven takes place primarily in a decayed shopping mall.

Insider spoke with production designer John Paino about building the mall.

Warning: spoilers ahead for episode seven of "The Last of Us."

In episode seven of "The Last of Us," Ellie  a teen who has never experienced life prior to the show's cordyceps pandemic  encounters her first taste of mass consumerism.

Based on the original video game's "Left Behind" DLC, it serves as a kind of prequel to the main events of the show, following Ellie and her friend Riley as they explore an abandoned mall that was accidentally connected to the Boston power grid. Through Ellie's eyes, the place is nothing short of a wonder, with even mundane things like escalators blowing her mind.

Insider spoke with production designer John Paino about creating the technological paradise, from building an arcade to recreating an American Girl store housing an Infected.

'The Last of Us' turned an abandoned Canadian mall into a 2000s-era American paradise

The mall in the show features a full slate of stores, ranging from Foot Locker to The Body Shop to Victoria's Secret. Most of them exist in a state of destruction or decay, some having been looted during the outbreak of the pandemic. Others carrying less-necessary items (say, lingerie) remain intact.

According to Paino, the show's crew built out the entire mall, which was a "stripped to sell" property located in Canada. While it wasn't quite big enough to possess "that American over-stupidity," they added a floor with VFX and built out the rest of the mall. Being able to bring in real stores, something that Paino said wasn't as easy in the original game, also helped to ground the mall in the 2003 era when the show's pandemic began.

Ellie and Riley contemplate lingerie in "The Last of Us." Liane Hentscher/HBO

All in all, Paino told Insider that the crew built approximately 40 stores, creating them "from scratch" only to dress them in 20 years of desiccation and rot.

"It's fun making all these high-end stores that we had, and they're all broken down and everything," Paino said. "It was a lot of fun social commentary. Lingerie, Starbucks, CVS, and Target  none of 'em survive."

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The mall's arcade and carousel presented specific and thrilling challenges

When Ellie sees the mall's arcade, she's awestruck, telling Riley that it's "the most beautiful thing I've ever seen." A neon paradise filled with classic arcade cabinets, pinball machines, and star-patterned carpet, it contrasts starkly with the show's typical post-apocalyptic aesthetic.

Paino told Insider that as a child of the 1970s, it was "so awesome" to recreate the environment in "The Last of Us." Still, doing so for television meant that it was difficult.

"Old TV screens, what we call CRTS, cathode ray tubes, they all roll on digital films, so the image just goes like " Paino said, waving his hand up and down. "So all of those had to be rebuilt and with monitors that were rigged so that we would see them when they're on."

Ellie and Riley on the carousel in "The Last of Us." Liane Hentscher/HBO

The carousel, too, was a challenge. While there was originally one in the mall, it was sold when the mall went out of business, Paino told Insider. The crew then located a new one, rigging it so that it was suitable for filming and could move at different speeds and stop at specific points.

"This is a real, actually a quite nice, carousel, which we painted and restored and stuff," Paino said. "We restored it and then we made it look like crap again."

"The Last of Us" is currently releasing episodes on Sundays on HBO and HBO Max.

Read the original article on Insider
EAST LANSING  The drama surrounding Sanjay Gupta's forced resignation from his leadership post at Michigan State University has moved into the court system.

The former business school dean claims in a lawsuit he was terminated and falsely accused of mandatory reporting violations as part of a scheme to keep him from becoming MSU's next president and "enhance" now-Interim President Teresa Woodruff's personal ambitions to lead the university.

Six other university leaders, including Interim Provost Thomas Jeitschko, participated in the alleged scheme, Gupta said in a federal court complaint.

"The facts establish that Gupta did not violate any mandatory reporting policy, promptly acted to protect students and complied with published MSU Title IX polices ... and acted with integrity, transparency and professionalism at all times as Dean of the Eli Broad College of Business," the suit said.

An MSU spokesman, Dan Olsen, said the university would decline comment on the pending litigation. But he added that the suit will be "vigorously defended."

The suit comes about six months after Woodruff forced Gupta to resign following reports that he failed to report an instance of alleged sexual misconduct to the university's Title IX office, even though other employees had already reportedly done so.

Former President Samuel Stanley Jr. backed Woodruff, and the MSU Board of Trustees later hired a law firm to investigate Gupta's departure and other Title IX concerns in actions. MSU's Faculty Senate and other faculty leaders criticized the board's move.

In his suit, Gupta said he was forced out based on allegations he failed to "re-report" an incident involving an intoxicated college professor along with other alleged leadership failures, including a purported failure to investigate a possible violation of MSU's relationship violence and sexual misconduct policy.

The suit described Gupta as a tenured faculty professor and "the most successful and widely respected Dean of the Eli Broad College of Business in the history of the college." He was unjustifiably removed as dean "based on false pretexts" and was "intentionally defamed and stigmatized" by false statements, the suit alleges.

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Besides Woodruff and Jeitschko, Title IX Coordinator Nicole Schmidtke, Senior Title IX investigator Allison Towe, interim Associate Provost Ann Austin, Stanley and Emily Guerrant, vice president of communications, are named as defendants.

Stanley left the school last fall, saying he had lost confidence in the trustees. Trustees had pressured him to resign before his contract expired in 2024, in part over his handling of Title IX issues. Stanley had objected to the board's investigation.

According to his suit, Gupta received a positive performance review from Woodruff, who was then the provost, in June 2022. During that review, Gupta told Woodruff he would like to serve as president when Stanley left his post, the suit said.

On the same day as the review, Gupta was informed of a complaint involving a professor accused of acting inappropriately during an end-of-the-year MBA program event, the suit said. Gupta went on to say he "fully and timely disclosed all information he had" regarding the incident and fully cooperated with investigators.

According to the suit, Gupta fully complied with MSU's relationship violence and sexual misconduct reporting policies.

Yet, on Aug. 12, Woodruff met with Gupta and informed him "he had just resigned," according to Gupta's suit. He was not allowed to appeal an investigation report that led to his firing, the suit said.

"Unbeknownst to Gupta, Defendants Woodruff, Jeitschko, Austin and Stanley pre-planned the August 12, termination, "orchestrating the process behind-the-scenes in an effort for Woodruff to smear and stigmatize Gupta's good name and thereby eliminate her competitor," the suit said.

Gupta alleges Schmidtke and Towe facilitated the termination, and Guerrant "publicly disseminated defamatory statements, falsely alleging that Gupta had resigned because he had violated the RVSM Policy," according to the suit.

The MSU board voted Friday to eventually release results of the investigation of Gupta's departure by Los Angeles-based law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan. The report is finished, but trustees said they are waiting for a report outlining the firm's conclusions.

Contact Ken Palmer at kpalmer@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @KBPalm_lsj.

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: MSU interim president, others schemed to oust Gupta from dean's post: Lawsuit
BEIRUT (AP)  Unknown assailants broke into the offices of Lebanons state-run National News Agency and stole the servers that contain its archives, the Information Ministry said Monday.

The theft occurred in a tightly secured area, further reflecting the cash-strapped countrys continued decay. The archives are located in a building that houses two ministries, across the street from the Lebanese central bank, and adjacent to the heavily-guarded Interior Ministry that is in charge of security in the country.

Information Ministry employees Monday morning saw the door to the archive room below ground level open and its lock broken.

According to the statement from caretaker Information Minister Ziad Makari, the archives contained photos and material dating back to 1961. The assailants also stole five computers.

Makari later tweeted that only a small part of the archives were stolen and that the main database is still accessible. The repercussions of the robbery are both moral and material," he tweeted. Work is underway and we will not stop to uncover the perpetrators and punish them.

The theft is another blow to Lebanon as it confronts a devastating economic crisis. The country for years has struggled to fund and maintain its state media agencies and archives. France and Lebanon in 2022 signed an agreement to digitize its archives as part of wider efforts to preserve Lebanese heritage and history.

Laure Sleiman, who was the state-run news agencys director from 2009 until late 2019, led the archival process after discovering over two million photo negatives in a dark room with broken furniture, office equipment, and rats.

Makari said an investigation is currently underway to find the stolen servers and apprehend the perpetrators.

I cannot express the sadness I felt when I heard the news, Sleiman told The Associated Press. I trust in the work of the intelligence branch, but it will all depend who stole it and if politics will intervene in the investigation as it always does.
This article originally appeared on Velo News

The Belgian opening weekend was quite disastrous for the Soudal Quick-Step team. Both on Saturday and Sunday they missed the cut when the impressive Jumbo-Visma team launched their offensive. In the chase they failed to bring back the strong breakaway groups and were forced to sprint for a top-10 result. Davide Ballerini finished sixth in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Fabio Jakobsen was ninth in Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne. That's not the way Belgian team manager Patrick Lefevere likes to start the spring classics season.

"Jumbo is now the team we were a few years ago, dominating and dictating the race, Lefevere said. Nowadays we are the ones being dictated. Jumbo is a good team. If you look at these riders, every single one of them is capable of winning a race. Its not the first day Tiesj Benoot is riding well."

Also read: Lessons learned from the 'opening weekend' from Jumbo-Visma, SD Worx dominance to Soudal Quick-Step misses

In Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne the Jumbo-Visma team accelerated when approaching the Walloon hill zone. Yves Lampaert was caught behind a crash that took out Jasper Philipsen. He spent a lot of energy trying to catch back on. Davide Ballerini was present near the front of the peloton when a Jumbo-Visma trio accelerated on the steep Bourliquet climb but he was unable to go with the yellow flow.

"Were too light, Lefevere said. Fabio had to focus on the sprint but Ballerini was on their wheels where they rode away and just dropped through the field. Florian Senechal wasnt up there either. These are the men who have to perform at the classics. Lampy was caught behind a crash but that crash didnt happen near the front, to be very clear. Thats the difference. When youre riding at the front then youre never caught behind a crash. One year we rode away with nearly everybody from the team but that was because everybody crashed behind us."

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When searching for reasons Lefevere pointed to the yellow riders from the Jumbo-Visma team and what it does with the confidence amongst his boys. "Theyre a bit blown away by all that yellow. Theres guys in our team who can ride like Tiesj and Nathan but its not happening. If Nathan Van Hooydonck can make the cut then theres three to four riders from our team who should be able to make the cut too. Theyre just not there. Theyre the same riders from two years ago. Ballerini won Het Nieuwsblad so if he races like he did back then he shouldve been up front today and that wasnt the case."

Lefevere felt that the tactical mindset of his riders wasn't how it should be, feeling they should take the initiative more often. "I wasnt at the team meeting this morning but it seems to me that were riding out of a defensive role, we dont take the race in our own hands. Were not used to racing like that. The boys are spread out in the peloton and then theres a crash. We shouldnt be pointing at anything else. Youve got to make the cut. Florian then rides nearly on his own. Cofidis had three guys, Trek had three guys. I wonder why theyre racing here, just to be in the group maybe. Lotto-Dstny also had two or three guys, I think. They rode early on but then Arnaud told Fabio that he wasnt feeling 100 percent but he won the sprint, or runner-up, ok."

Also read: De Lie is the new Belgian kid on the block (or bull on the ranch, if you will)

Obviously, there's a few strong guys joining the spring classics team during the more important races next month, including former world champion Julian Alaphilippe and former Ronde van Vlaanderen winner Kasper Asgreen. Alaphilippe won the Faune Ardeche Classic on Saturday, beating David Gaudu in a two-man sprint. On Sunday he finished sixteenth in the Faune Drome Classic at nearly five minutes from winner Anthony Perez. "Alaphilippe wins on Saturday but on Sunday he gets dropped, I learned. It was a really tough course but he should be able to deal with that. A good Asgreen should be capable too," Lefevere sighed. The strong Dane got ill and didn't take the start in the races this weekend.

When asked for solutions, Lefevere joked about going to the mass. "Maybe we should get drunk tonight. No, seriously, we dont have to panic right now. Were barely racing in Kuurne and we won our twelfth race with Remco. We said we changed the emphasis in the team away from the classics and thats becoming clear," Lefevere said. He concluded by sending out a warning to a few riders. "The ones that are underperforming these days will have to prove themselves because theres a few of them whore at the end of their contract and then theyll meet me at the other end of the table."

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.
The legal age you can marry in England and Wales has raised from 16 to 18. (Getty Images)

A new law raising the legal age of marriage from 16 to 18 has come into force today in England and Wales.

From today (February 27), 16 and 17-year-olds can no longer wed or enter a civil partnership in England or Wales, even with their parents consent.

The measure has been introduced in an effort to better protect children from forced marriage and has been hailed as a huge victory for survivors.

The change, under the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act, means it is now a crime to exploit vulnerable children by arranging for them to marry under any circumstances, whether or not force was used.

Here's everything you need to know about the new legislation in 10 points.

The law will also cover non-legally binding ceremonies. (Getty Images)

The legal age brides and grooms can tie the knot has increased from 16 to 18. The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 has come into force in England and Wales today," explains David Lillywhite, partner at Burgess Mee Family Law. "It now means that the legal age of marriage has been raised from 16 years old to 18 years old, even if the marriage has the consent of parents."

The new legislation has been described as a huge leap forward. That's in the fight against the "hidden abuse" of forced marriage. The Ministry of Justice said the statistics showed forced marriage is more likely to impact girls than boys, with 2018 figures for England and Wales showing that 28 boys married under the age of 18 compared with 119 girls.

It is hoped that the change will provide better protection for vulnerable young people. The change to legislation on child marriage is a huge victory for survivors," says Natasha Rattu, director of the Karma Nirvana charity which is a member of the Girls Not Brides Coalition. "It is a huge leap forward to tackling this usually hidden abuse and will provide a greater degree of protection to those at risk."

Last year, the national Honour Based Abuse helpline supported 64 cases of child marriage. Meanwhile the Governments forced marriage unit provided advice or support in 118 cases involving victims aged under 18 in 2021. But, according to Rattu, this is only a small snapshot of a much bigger problem. "We hope that the new law will help to increase identification and reporting, she adds.

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The law will also cover non-legally binding 'traditional' ceremonies. As these will still be viewed as marriages by the parties and their families, the Government said.

The new legislation has been introduced to better protect victims of forced marriage. (Getty Images)

Experts believe it can be hugely damaging for a child to be coerced into a marriage. "As lawyers, we welcome the strengthening of such protective mechanisms," explains Daniel Jones, partner and head of family law at Gateley Legal. "All those entering into a marriage should do so freely and understanding the implications of this significant step.

Is 16 or 17 too young to say yes to marriage? "From a psychological standpoint at this age someone doesn't understand what marriage means legally, socially, and emotionally," explains psychologist Barbara Santini. "16 may also be too young for someone to enter into a marriage because most people at this age don't have a well-defined sense of self, so some individuals will do anything to make their family happy."

Those in favour of the change say it isnt about restricting individual freedoms. "Instead it has a wider aim of protecting vulnerable children from being forced into marriage," explains Lillywhite. "Previously, forced marriage required coercion, but now it will be illegal irrespective of whether force is used."

Psychologists believe 16 is too young to understand the full implications of marriage. (Getty Images)

Those cause breaching the new legislation face prison. Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said perpetrators will face the full force of the law, with someone found guilty of arranging child marriages potentially getting a sentence of up to seven years in prison.

The changes do not apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland. That's because marriage is a devolved matter and in those two countries the minimum age for marriage will remain 16. In Northern Ireland parental consent is required for those under 18 but not in Scotland.

Additional reporting PA.
Like many other PC and phone manufacturers, Lenovo is at MWC Barcelona this week, sharing details about what it has in store for the rest of the year. The companys 2023 lineup includes refreshed ThinkPad laptops and ThinkCentre monitors, but perhaps the most interesting announcement involves the IdeaPad Duet 3i.

Lenovo is updating the Windows 11 2-in-1 to add a larger 11.5-inch IPS panel with a 2,000 x 1,200 resolution, 100 percent DCI-P3 coverage and 400 nits of peak brightness. The new model also has upgraded 5-megapixel and 8-megapixel front and rear-facing cameras and an N200 processor from Intel. The four-core, four-thread processor features a boost clock of up to 3.7GHz. You can configure the IdeaPad with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. It also comes with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, and with the option to pair the device with a stylus, Lenovo says the IdeaPad Duet 3i is perfect for students. The 2-in-1 will arrive in Europe later this year and cost 449 (about $473).

A rear photo fo the IdeaPad Duet 3i, showing the 2-in-1

Lenovo is also updating its affordable IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook line. The company will offer the 14-inch laptop in three different display options. At the top of the stack, theres a Full HD model with an IPS panel that offers 100 percent sRGB coverage and 300 nits of brightness. Another FHD model comes with a TN panel that peaks at 250 nits. And for those looking to spend as little as possible on their next computer, Lenovo will also offer a 1,366 x 768 option. You can configure the IdeaPad Slim 3 with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage. With a modest MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor powering everything, Lenovo says its latest Chromebook can go up to 13.5 hours on a single charge. The company expects the IdeaPad Slim 3 to start at $340 when it arrives in May.
With a drone shows portions of a Norfolk and Southern freight train that derailed Friday night in East Palestine, Ohio are still on fire at mid-day Train Derailment Ohio, East Palestine, United States - 04 Feb 2023

Gene J Puskar/AP/Shutterstock Crash site after a Norfolk and Southern freight train derailed on Feb. 3 in East Palestine, Ohio

Three weeks after a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, locals are being diagnosed with bronchitis and other health conditions due to the chemical exposure.

The train was pulling 150 cars through the village, located about 50 miles from Pittsburgh and home to over 4,700, on the morning of Feb. 3 when it jumped the rails and toppled over, spilling numerous dangerous chemicals as a result.

The derailment resulted in what officials called a "controlled release" of chemicals in hopes of avoiding further disaster, per The Washington Post.

Melissa Blake, who lives within a mile of the crash site, told NBC News that she started coughing up gray mucus and was struggling to breathe two days after the derailment. She was quickly diagnosed with "acute bronchitis due to chemical fumes" after a trip to the emergency room, which can be caused by "exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals."

"They gave me a breathing machine. They put me on oxygen. They gave me three types of steroids," she told the outlet, sharing that she hasn't been able to return home due to the chemicals in the area.

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RELATED: What to Know About the Ohio Train Derailment and Chemical Spill: A Timeline of Events

Additionally, five of the 10 workers at manufacturing company CeramFab, located next to the crash site, became sick after the derailment.

The company's general manager, Howard Yang, told the outlet that they were forced to close for a week due to the release of vinyl chloride, a carcinogenic chemical onboard the train. Yang explained that after resuming operations on Feb. 13, many of his workers became sick and "started dropping like flies."

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"People ended up with rashes, nausea, vomiting, bloody nose, eye issues. A lot of coughing, wheezing," he claimed. "We sent a lot of workers to the hospital to get checked out and, sure enough, in most cases, it was a diagnosis of 'chemical bronchitis.' They were put on five different kinds of pills, including steroids. Some guys have to use inhalers. It's pretty bad."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, common symptoms of chemical exposure include dizziness, headache, nausea, nose and throat irritation, skin irritation or rashes, and itchy, watery or burning eyes.

However, experts say it's difficult to determine whether the symptoms of local residents and workers are directly linked to the derailment.

"There's no lab test. There's no imaging test. It's really just a clinical suspicion of what it could be," Dr. James Kravec chief clinical officer for Mercy Health in Youngstown and Lorraine, Ohio  told NBC. "It's certainly reasonable to say if you have a rash, dry skin or dry eyes, dry nose, that it could be related. There really isn't a way to tell for sure, unfortunately."
Photo: Contributed

Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning across Revelstoke and the Trans-Canada Highway - Eagle Pass to Rogers Pass.

"An unstable convective band pushing through the area could bring an additional 5 to 10 cm of snow. The area of heavy snowfall will be highly localized. Heavy snow creating challenging travel conditions," Environment Canada said in an email.

Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow.

"Consider postponing non-essential travel until conditions improve," Environment Canada added.
The Iberico Pork Chop dish with cabbage and fennel pollen furikake is seen at Bar Chelou. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

I've lived most of my life in Pasadena, a sprawling suburb northeast of downtown Los Angeles. It's where Julia Child and Jackie Robinson lived for a time, where the Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl are held every year. And it's home to the world-renowned Caltech Seismological Lab. It's a city known for many things, but it's never really been a culinary destination.

There are plenty of great places to eat. I've written about many of them. But I don't know that I'd spend an hour in traffic to get there, from where I live currently. Two recent openings are solidifying the city as a culinary destination. A place worthy of a drive for a French-ish bistro where I'd recommend the entire menu, and a restaurant centered on an excellent bowl of Taiwanese beef noodle soup.

Pork chop, snap peas and carrots at Bar Chelou

From left, the snap peas, carrots and Iberico pork chop dishes at Bar Chelou. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

The Iberico pork chop arrives sliced, black-edged and nestled up against the bone, buried under a tangle of slightly wilted and sour cabbage and raw shaved onion. Underneath is a hot mustard sauce and on top, a furikake made with sesame seeds and fennel pollen. It is the dish on most tables at Bar Chelou, Doug Rankin's new restaurant adjacent to the Pasadena Playhouse. Id had cured Iberico ham only as red and white ribbons of pure meaty, earthy funk, but the fresh pork chop was the equivalent of a nice piece of Wagyu beef. It picked up the smoke from the Josper charcoal oven it was cooked in and cut like room temperature butter. But the best part of the dish is the one Rankin says he has to actually encourage people to eat.

The bone is insane, but I watch every plate come back into the kitchen and a lot of people arent eating it, he said. We bought little hand towels, because we think maybe people just didnt want to get their hands dirty.

The Iberico Pork Chop, Carrot and Snap Pea dishes are seen at Bar Chelou. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

On a recent visit, I calibrated perfect bites of pork, cabbage and mustard sauce until the slices were gone and I was left with the bone. I contemplated taking it home to be alone with it but couldn't resist. I gnawed on it, stripping the charred edges that turned sweet and smoky in the oven. I was in the middle of a crowded dining room, but in my head, I was alone with the bone.

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If youre going to listen to a single thing Ive ever said in this column, let it be this. Eat the bone.

A flower arrangement decorates the main dining area at Bar Chelou. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

The pork chop is reason enough to visit, but order the snap peas too. It's a dish crowded with depth and texture, with grilled snap peas tossed in a creamy anchovy mayonnaise under a loose sheath of grated, cured egg yolk and crispy fried chistorra that registers bacon bits. The first bite conjures a warm summer potato salad, but with the freshness of snap peas. The best way to appreciate the full dish is to get a little bit of everything into each bite: creamy, crunchy, salty and bright.

And don't skip the carrots either. They turned out to be a labor-intensive play on salade de carottes rapes. Rankin shreds a bunch of Weiser Farms carrots, then juices more carrots. He vacuum-seals the shredded carrots in a brine he fashions with the carrot juice, salt and sugar and lets them sit overnight. The vegetable ends up tasting like a superhero version of itself, with an intense, fresh carrot flavor that Rankin dials up with a coconut and ginger dressing. To add even more texture, he adds a heap of grated, fried potatoes to the top along with dehydrated lime leaf. Imagine a Thai papaya salad with carrots. It's also one of the completely vegan dishes on the menu.

Chef and owner Doug Rankin prepares the Snap Peas dish at Bar Chelou. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

"I guess this is me finding my cuisine," Rankin said. The chef recently closed the French Bar Restaurant in Silver Lake and cooked alongside Ludo Lefebvre at Trois Mec and Petit Trois for a time. "I'm just trying to break the rules, I guess."

Break the rules. And remember what I said about the bone.

Beef noodle soup from Le Chateau de Tien Tao

Taiwanese beef noodle soup is a simple but grand dish steeped in comfort. A bowl of broth made from simmered bones, brimming with chewy noodles, vegetables and slabs of meat. It's the focal point of the limited menu at the new Le Chateau de Tien Tao, a restaurant that opened in Old Pasadena in January.

Owner Aaron Ho, whose family is from Taipei, wanted to create a restaurant devoted to his favorite soup. He partnered with Andy Wang, the chef at Chateau Zoe, Chateau Andy and formerly of the Grand Hotel, all in Taipei. At Le Chateau de Tien Tao, there are three varieties of soup with the same base: a clear broth made by simmering onions, carrots, beef bones (thigh, joint, shoulder, spine and marrow) with water for 24 hours. You can order it as the clear broth, or opt for the braised beef, infused with a soy sauce marinade used to season the thick slices of beef shank that garnish the soup.

There's also a tomato beef soup that incorporates four types of tomatoes. The fruit adds a prominent sweetness, making it the perfect candidate for the chopped pickled mustard greens and sandy chile sauce garnishes that accompany each bowl.

The braised beef is the favorite of the three, and the most similar to the versions I've enjoyed at places like Pi Pi Pop in Monterey Park. The beef marinade turns the broth a deep chocolate brown and imparts an unctuous beef essence that's rich but not heavy, redolent with what I imagine is five spice and white pepper. Ho's sister Mimi, who helps with marketing for the restaurant, divulged that there was low sodium soy sauce in the marinade but kept the herbs and spices a secret.

The noodles in each bowl are long and chewy, and the pieces of shank as thick as the steak you might order at the Ruth's Chris down the street.

Mimi said the thickness of the cut of the beef is meant to encourage a wine pairing, like at a steakhouse. The restaurant is in the process of transferring a liquor license, which will soon allow them to serve wine.

The name, she added, is a reference to an ancient Chinese mythological character that likes to eat and drink. The restaurant, or "le chateau," is meant to be a castle for the sophisticated gourmand. It tracks.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Weeks before Ketanji Brown Jackson was tapped as a Supreme Court nominee last year, the White House knew the confirmation process would be a political fight for the ages.

Republicans were already attacking the would-be nominee before Biden had even selected Jackson or publicly uttered her name.

It was then that Biden turned to Ben LaBolt, one of the most respected communications professionals in Democratic circles, to help guide the first Black woman Supreme Court justice to confirmation and lead the messaging wars during one of the biggest fights of his presidency.

Now, a year later, LaBolt, 41, is returning to the West Wing as Bidens communications director as the president prepares his battle for reelection.

Ben knows about the art of trench warfare, and thats the type of person you want for your team when youre about to be in the fight of your life, said Democratic strategist Lis Smith, who served as a communications adviser to Pete Buttigieg during his 2020 presidential campaign. He knows how to take a punch, but he also knows how to land one.

Democrats say Bidens selection of LaBolt is particularly noteworthy because the president  who has relied for years on a small, air-tight inner circle  is bringing in a relative outsider for the influential role.

While he worked on Bidens 2020 presidential transition, LaBolt is known in the political universe as an Obama guy. He started with the former president as a communications aide when he was a senator and then moved to his 2008 presidential campaign, before landing in Obamas White House press shop. Later, he would go on to serve as one of the most prominent faces of the Obama 2012 campaign, making daily television appearances on behalf of the president.

It shows how seriously the president is taking this reelection fight, one Democratic strategist said, adding that its meaningful that hes going outside the family.

LaBolt starts his new gig on March 1, just as Biden prepares to launch his bid for reelection. Bide is also grappling with a new House GOP majority ramping up investigations, including one focused on his son, Hunter Biden.

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It speaks to the White Houses understanding that they need someone who is smart about governing but also strategic about politics, helming their communications operation, Smith said. Republicans are going to be making Joe Bidens life hell.

LaBolts arrival also coincides with a rash of headlines surrounding the president in recent weeks on issues like unidentified flying objects and the discovery of classified documents at his former office and his Wilmington, Del., home.

The White House has been criticized by some Democrats at times for being too lax in its communications strategy. Democrats were particularly miffed last year when Bidens team seemed flat-footed in its messaging following the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

There have also been complaints from Democrats that the White House should be doing more to boast about the presidents accomplishments, including his economic success stories.

LaBolt can offer new ideas, those around him say.

You need fresh thinking. You need a different perspective, said Marti Adams, who served until recently as Treasury Secretary Janet Yellens executive secretary and worked with LaBolt on Obamas 2012 campaign. The dynamics the White House is dealing with are so complex. I think it would have been a mistake to rely on the same playbook.

Those who know LaBolt  who will be the first openly gay communications director  say he brings a unique perspective to the role because of the depth of his experiences.

The Illinois native began his political career on Howard Deans presidential campaign, followed by stints at the Democratic National Committee and in the congressional offices of Rep. Jan Schakowsky (Ill.) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (Ohio.)

Most recently, he served as a partner at Bully Pulpit Interactive in San Francisco, the Democratic firm where he worked alongside Robert Gibbs, the former White House press secretary under Obama.

Ben will be a huge asset for President Biden because he has experience in every facet of politics, said Tommy Vietor, the co-host of the popular podcast Pod Save America who worked with LaBolt in the White House press office under Obama. Ben knows how to manage complicated, deeply reported stories, and he understands how to lead a team and keep everyone on message.

Those who worked with LaBolt on Jacksons Supreme Court nomination process say he was instrumental in leading the overall press strategy, including making sure it was tailored to persuadable senators like Mitt Romney (R-Utah) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska).

He coordinated messaging strategies with outside groups, helping to ensure everyone stayed on message.

And he participated in prep sessions for Jackson, previewing likely questions and lines of attack from Republicans on the Judiciary Committee.

He is someone who is always on top of things, said former Sen. Doug Jones, (D-Ala.) who worked alongside LaBolt during Jacksons confirmation process. He has good instincts.

That skillset will be helpful in his new role, Jones said.

He is politically savvy enough to know everything the White House does has a political overtone, and he will serve the president and the candidate well, he said.

LaBolt is known among friends and associates for bringing a dry sense of humor and levity to tense situations on the job.

For years, he has been known to frequently respond to bad news, a mundane question from a reporter, or a less-than-ideal predicament with one line: Best day of my life.

When he served at the White House and on the Obama campaigns, after receiving press inquiries he regarded as silly or trivial, he famously emailed reporters a photo of a crying mime.

The mime became such a staple and a symbol for LaBolt and his own communications, that the presidents aides hired a real mime to come into their campaign headquarters for the spokesmans birthday in 2012.

There were some bad days, but he never lets the moments get to him, Smith said. Hes really good at making sure no one on the communications team got down in the dumps with his inspirational and colorful speeches.

Yes, there were some four-letter words here and there, she added.

Adams said his demeanor is pitch-perfect for his new role.

Hes exactly who you want to be in the trenches with, she said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Lorraine Kelly is back on screen after shrugging off a 'buglet'. (ITV)

Lorraine Kelly has returned to work after being sent home ill, insisting it was just a "buglet".

The 63-year-old TV presenter was sent home from her ITV chat show on Wednesday 23 February and gave a hilarious response as she announced she would be back on screen on Monday morning.

Kelly tweeted in reply to a fan who said they could not believe her age: "Feck Stuartie  neither can I! See you 9am tomorrow."

Feck Stuartie - neither can I! See you 9am tomorrow  https://t.co/6RU4Y9HDtu  Lorraine (@reallorraine) February 26, 2023

The Scottish chat show host told Dr Hilary Jones on Lorraine: "I'm fine, that was so weird last week, I came in on Wednesday morning and I got sent home.

Read more: Lorraine Kelly reveals Matt Hancock declined to appear on her show

"It was just a buglet and normally I can bat them away but this time it was a cracker. It's all good."

Lorraine Kelly hosts her own ITV chat show. (ITV)

Kelly was replaced by Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh at the last minute after revealing she was unwell.

She announced on Twitter: "When you have to be sent home from work early in the morning because you are suddenly attacked by a hideous bug and were looking forward to interviewing @adamlambert THAT! Beyond disappointed but imagine if I had infected him !!!!!!"

The next day when asked how she was feeling she said: "Much better ta - see you Monday xxx"

The TV star's last unscheduled absence from the morning show was in July 2022 when she had COVID-19, which she admitted "completely floored me".

Ranvir Singh stepped in to host Lorraine. (ITV)

Kelly took a week off from hosting her show due to testing positive for coronavirus.

She revealed on her return: "Do you know, I'm fine. It was a nasty one, the dreaded COVID got me and it's a nasty one. The worst headaches I think I've ever had in my whole life.

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"[It] completely floored me, I couldn't actually get up without feeling really weird but I'm absolutely fine now.

"Thank goodness, as I kept saying all the time, that I got the vaccine."

Kelly lost 1.5st after becoming an ambassador for Weight Watchers in a bid to combat the pounds she had gained "comfort eating" during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lorraine Kelly, pictured in October 2020, said she gained weight due to comfort eating in the pandemic. (Getty Images)

She said at the time: I comfort ate and would just find myself hovering around the biscuit tin and the fridge for all sorts of goodies.

Read more: Lorraine Kelly's toes 'curl' over Prince Harry's willy and virginity revelations

I wasn't doing as much exercise and mindlessly eating, just eating for the sake of eating. Now Ive got much more of a balance.

Watch: Lorraine Kelly calls Brooklyn Beckham's wedding 'joyless'
Alexander Lukashenko, the self-proclaimed President of Belarus, has held a meeting with security forces following two recent explosions at a military airfield located in the village of Machulishchy.

Source: Belarus-aligned news outlet BelTa; Belaruski Hajun [an independent Belarusian military monitoring media outlet]

Quote from Lukashenko: "We have a large number of people in uniform. They are all armed. These are people who are dedicated to defending their homeland. We need to take advantage of this. Discipline and fulfilment of their duties. Especially at the border."

Details: As he states, the militsiya [police forces in the Soviet Union and in several Eastern Bloc countries], the KGB [State Security Committee of the Republic of Belarus], and the military "must see any slightest aggression against our country on the borders of our state in order to take appropriate measures to respond."

Lukashenko believes that the country's enemies are using every opportunity to "stir up" the situation in Belarus. "I ask you and demand that you fulfil these instructions. Everything else is up to me," he said.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary of State of the Belarusian Security Council, the Ministers of Internal Affairs and Defence, and the heads of the KGB and the State Border Committee. Lukashenko himself seemed anxious.

Background: On the morning of 26 February, the BYPOL initiative reported explosions at the Machulishchy airbase in Minsk Oblast in Belarus. There is information about a damaged Russian AWACS aircraft.

Alexander Azarov, Head of the BYPOL initiative, said that Belarusian partisans were behind it. As he stated, the participants of the alleged sabotage in Machulishchy left Belarus and are now safe.

A day after an incident at the military airbase in the village of Machulishchy in Belarus, the Belarusian border guards significantly enhanced control of people leaving the country.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
By Michel Rose and Elizabeth Pineau

PARIS/LIBREVILLE (Reuters) -President Emmanuel Macron said on Monday that France's military bases in Africa will gradually be co-run with their host nations, after Paris suffered a series of setbacks in its former sphere of influence.

In a speech ahead of a trip to four African countries this week, Macron said France's military will become less visible and the number of soldiers reduced, in an effort to defuse tensions in West Africa, where anti-French sentiment is on the rise.

"The bases as they exist now are a heritage from the past," he told reporters at the Elysee palace in Paris two days before flying to Gabon, the first country of a tour that will also take him to nations that were not former French colonies, including Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

"These bases will not be closed but re-organised," he said, adding that the new bases or "academies" will start to gradually be "africanised" and ran in conjunction with African and European partners.

The tour comes just over a week after Burkina Faso booted out French troops and ended a military accord that allowed France to fight insurgents in the West African nation, becoming the latest African country to reject Paris' help.

France withdrew its forces from Mali last year after the junta there started working with Russian military contractors.

Russia's Wagner Group has also deployed in the Central African Republic, prompting fears of a domino effect in Paris at a time Western countries are trying to lobby the global south against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

Macron said he was "proud" of France's military record in Mali, and would not allow the country to be made a scapegoat for a worsening of the security situation in the Sahel, where Islamists insurgents have made progress.

"France's role is not to fix all the problems in Africa," he said.

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Macron also said that African nations would eventually stop turning to the Wagner Group as they would see that it only sows misery.

"It's a group of criminal mercenaries, the life insurance of failing regimes and putschists," he said.

Macron has accused Russia of feeding anti-French propaganda in Africa to serve "predatory" ambitions.

On Monday, he said he refused to be drawn into an outdated competition between predatory powers and felt "no nostalgia for Francafrique", the murky links between France and its former colonies that sometimes saw Paris support autocratic regimes.

"But I don't want to leave an absence or void after that," he said, urging French companies to bid for contracts there and be more respectful of African nations by sending top executives to negotiate them and not lower-ranking managers.

During the trip, Macron will focus on the environment and will participate in a summit on forests in Gabon, as well as meet African artists.

(Reporting by Michel Rose, Sudip Kar-Gupta and Layli Foroudi in Paris and Elizabeth Pineau in Libreville; Editing by Christina Fincher)
(Bloomberg) -- French President Emmanuel Macron gave French businesses a public dressing down for their lack of ambition in Africa as he pressed for a reset in the relationship between his country and the continent.

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Too many of our companies arent doing the best they could. I wont defend those that arent ready to fight, Macron told officials and reporters ahead of a trip to Gabon, Congo, Angola and the Republic of Congo starting Wednesday. Hes the first French president born after the end of the countrys colonial era

The influence of Macrons government on the continent is being challenged by anti-French sentiment in some African countries, as well as their growing business and trade ties with Russia and China. Officials in Paris have pointed to Russian disinformation campaigns and resentment linked to the French colonial empire to explain recent demonstrations in several nations, including Mali and the Central African Republic.

The French economic world needs to wake up and fight, Macron told an audience at the Elysee Palace including business figures close to him like Serge Weinberg, chairman of drug maker Sanofi, and Xavier Niel, the founder and owner of telecoms provider Iliad SA. Other nations are gaining ground because they are taking African countries seriously.

Among his recommendations, he urged French business to send top executives when dealing with African heads of state, and to stick to the timelines of contracts. We believed that because we were France, even when we were bad, even when we were pricier, even when our financing solutions werent as good, we would still be chosen, he said, referring to a battlefield for competition.

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Macron said Frances relationship with the continent should move away from military ties, and focus on education and business, while openly defending Pariss interests. From now on, Macron said, all French military bases will be jointly managed with African countries. He added that Frances main bases wont close.

We cant keep looking down at people, Macron said. Its not like: We come to your place and do good. We are coming to defend our interests in a way that respects the interests of African countries.

Military Wind-Down

Macron is pulling troops from Mali and Burkina Faso, two countries that are increasingly leaning toward Russia. In Mali, French Barkhane forces have been pushed out by the ruling junta in favor of forces from Russian mercenary group Wagner. While Macron has pledged to wind down Frances military presence and relocate it toward other countries including Niger, there are still some 3,000 troops in the Sahel region.

In a sign showing how sensitive the topic is, the French defense minister recently slammed the Marvel franchise Black Panther over its negative portrayal of French soldiers.

French soldiers first entered Mali a decade ago to dislodge al Qaeda-linked militants from their northern strongholds in Gao and Timbuktu. Macron said that Paris would re-focus on training or advising African countries.

During his trip to central Africa this week, Macron is expected to again urge leaders to join in condemning Russias war in Ukraine. He plans to hold a conference about North/South relations in Paris in June.

The 45-year-old Macron has sought to build closer links with African countries traditionally outside Frances sphere of influence. He will attend a summit about forest protection in Gabon, a former French colony, before heading to the ex-Portuguese colony of Angola. While Congo-Brazzaville is a former colony, the Democratic Republic of Congo was ruled by Belgium.

--With assistance from Katarina Hoije.

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Madonna speaks at the 65th Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, February 2023 (Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images)

Madonnas older brother Anthony Ciccone has died at the age of 66, the pop icons brother-in law has confirmed.

Joe Henry, a musician who is married to Madonna's sister Melanie Ciccone, said on Instagram on Saturday that Mr Ciccone had passed away the previous night, hailing him as a complex character.

"My brother-in-law, Anthony Gerard Ciccone, exited this earthly plane last evening," wrote Mr Henry. "Ive known him since I was 15, in the spring of our lives in Michigan so many years now gone.

"Anthony was a complex character, and God knows we tangled in moments, as true brothers can. But I loved him, and understood him better than I was sometimes willing to let on. Trouble fades; and family remains  with hands reached across the table.

"I want to think the God your blessed mother (and mine) believed in has her there, waiting to receive you. At least for today, no one shall dissuade me from this vision."

This story is developing and will be updated.
Today is the 50th anniversary of the American Indian Movement's takeover of Wounded Knee. (Photo/PBS)

Guest Opinion. Today, I share with you the story of my experience on the ground during that monumental moment. Ill talk about the way things unfolded and how those weeks under siege were the first domino in a series of events that catapulted our movement into the international spotlight  and also eventually led to the formation of the Lakota Peoples Law Project.

By the time the standoff began that February, I was already a seasoned activist. Id met with the local American Indian Movement (AIM) chapter in the Twin Cities in the 1960s, and Id joined relatives in California to occupy Alcatraz. When the call went out from the people of Pine Ridge to help lead discussions to confront issues in their communities, I didnt hesitate. Little did I know that a planned series of strategy meetings would turn into an epic, months-long siege that would threaten our lives and gain international media attention.

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On the evening of February 27, 1973, after we finished talking with folks in a village called Calico, our caravan headed toward Porcupine. We were several miles north of Wounded Knee when the word went out that the feds were upon us. Armored personnel carriers had been spotted, and the Army, FBI, and other law enforcement agencies were converging on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. We realized we had to get the caravan and our people to safety. And when we got to the village of Wounded Knee, the first firefight started.

Many people, including everyone in our car, got arrested that night, and for the first four or five nights of the occupation, I was in jail. Once released, I did what everyone else was doing: I loaded up on supplies and headed back to Wounded Knee. And there I remained until the siege ended more than two months later.

On the ground, it was minute to minute, day to day. It was a full military action, and we never knew what would happen. Firefights occurred almost every night, with flares and tracers raining down to light up the area. My job  I was one of four women doing this  was as a medic. We each had different bunkers to cover in case someone got shot. I was assigned four bunkers on the south side. Every night, it was nonstop activity. People would sneak in and out, hiding in the grass, bringing food and other supplies. Many were arrested. In that situation, youre just trying to make sure everyones alive and healthy. If you couldnt find someone, you wondered if theyd been killed or taken to jail.

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During this time, I met Danny Sheehan, who would go on to lead several seminal legal justice fights and become our Lakota Law president and chief counsel. During the standoff, Danny was staying with my brother-in-law, Herman Thunder Hawk, in the house where we monitored government communications via CB radio. He was among many legal volunteers who showed up when it mattered most, and he stayed busy prepping criminal defenses for our people. Its notable that no one was ever convicted after the standoff. All charges were eventually dismissed because of prosecutorial misconduct. The FBI had illegally wiretapped attorneys.

Those weeks under siege were hard, but they were worth it. We took a stand that mattered, and we held the worlds attention on nightly newscasts. We inspired later landback and occupy movements, and we formed connections that last until the present day. 32 years later, in 2005  when South Dakotas Department of Social Services wouldnt stop taking our children  Russell Means urged me to talk with Danny again, leading to the founding of Lakota Law. Weve been in this fight together, off and on, for half a century.

Madonna Thunder Hawk is the Cheyenne River organizer for The Lakota Peoples Law Project.

About the Author: "Levi Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
A major investigation in Arizona yielded $13 million worth of drugs, including 30 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl AP Photo/Jae C. Hong

About 30 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl were found during an Arizona police investigation.

The drugs were worth about $13 million and included substances like meth, cocaine, and heroin.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is the leading cause of drug overdose-related deaths in the United States.

The Arizona police announced a major drug bust on Thursday, where they seized drugs worth $13 million  including 30 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl, a highly potent opioid.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA, said in a Thursday statement that the three-year-long investigation targeted the Mexican Sinaloa Cartel.

The seized drugs included 4.5 million fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl, 145 pounds of fentanyl powder, 304 pounds of cocaine, 3,100 pounds of methamphetamine, and 77 pounds of heroin, the release stated.

A picture of the seized drugs was also released by the authorities.

The seized drugs included 4.5 million fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl, 145 pounds of fentanyl powder, 304 pounds of cocaine, 3,100 pounds of methamphetamine, and 77 pounds of heroin. Drug Enforcement Administration

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine.

Just about two milligrams of the drug can be lethal, depending on the size of the person consuming it, according to the DEA. For comparison, that quantity would fit into the tip of a pencil.

Currently, it is one of the top substances leading to lethal drug overdose in the United States. A majority of the 107,500 deaths linked to drug overdoses in the 12 months ending August 2022 have been caused by fentanyl, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

These include fentanyl consumed either on its own or mixed with other drugs, the report, released earlier this month, said.

Police also seized 49 firearms and over $2 million in cash, CNN reported on Sunday, citing Josie Montenegro, the interim police chief of Tempe.

The investigation  which charged 150 individuals  was jointly conducted by the DEA, the Tempe Police, and the Arizona Attorney General, the press release states.

"The Sinaloa Cartel is responsible for nearly all deadly narcotics flooding into Arizona," the press release said. The cartel, which has been operating since the 1980s, is responsible for the biggest shipments of fentanyl to the US.

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Last year, the DEA in Arizona seized over $22 million in fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills and about 1,100 pounds of fentanyl powder, the press release said.

Representatives of the DEA, the Arizona Attorney General's office, and the Tempe Police did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Photo: File photo

Advisory: This article has details about a brutal murder.

One of the men serving a life sentence for the brutal murder of Langford teenager Kimberley Proctor in 2010 has had his appeal for day parole rejected.

Kruse Hendrick Wellwood was denied parole last August, but applied to the Parole Board of Canadas appeal division based on several complaints, including that the board didnt provide him with an accurate hearing date. Wellwood also claimed the parole board failed to consider his community supports and progress, and claims that his psychological risk assessment was misinterpreted.

The appeals division said Wellwood had not raised any point that would cause it to intervene in the parole boards decision to deny his day parole.

The appeal division said the boards decision to deny parole would stand, based on an accurate interpretation of the information in Wellwoods file, which estimated his risk to be in the high range for general, violent and sexual re-offending.

It also denied Wellwoods appeal based on the nature and gravity of the offence, an elevated risk of violent and sexual recidivism, concerns over Wellwoods ongoing issues with emotional regulation, and the lack of a viable plan for support and supervision during release.

Wellwood, now 29, is serving a life sentence in Mission Institution for the murder of 18-year-old Proctor in March 2010.

Wellwood was 16 when he and Cameron Moffat, 17, lured the Grade 12 student to Wellwoods home in Langford, tied her up, gagged her, sexually assaulted her, beat her, suffocated her and mutilated her body with a knife over several hours. They put her body in a freezer, and the next day travelled to the Galloping Goose trail and set it on fire. Her burned body was found under a bridge on the trail on March 19, 2010.

The teens, who were sentenced as adults, pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and were given life sentences in 2011 with no possibility of parole for 10 years. They were both eligible for day parole in 2018.

The appeals division said Wellwoodss emotional dysregulation is a major setback to his rehabilitation. Historically and throughout his sentence, he has exhibited tantrum-like behaviours, sometimes for prolonged periods lasting several hours. These behaviours involve uncontrollable crying, punching or striking himself in the head, pulling his hair, punching/kicking walls or doors. His physical aggression and violence are not directed at others, but rather towards himself, although sometimes involve expletives directed at others, the appeal division said in its report.

These episodes of emotional dysregulation are intense and would reasonably be perceived as unsafe by any onlooker, except for staff members who have some exposure and understanding of this peculiar behaviour on his part.

The appeals division said Wellwoods priority is to work on his emotional regulation, but noted Wellwood does not believe he can do it on his own. He has sought and received mental health support, but he feels he has reached an impasse with Missions mental health team and is not always receptive to work with them, said the appeals report.

Your lack of change in this dynamic risk domain demonstrates your failure to make progress against the identified risky behaviours that were present at the time of your index offence when you took the life of the young victim. The appeal division finds the boards decision is based on relevant, reliable, and persuasive information.

The division also said that while Wellwoods appeal noted the board did not take into account his community support, he states in his own day parole application that he has no family support or financial resources. The appeal division said Corrections Canada interviewed Wellwoods identified community support, and he explained that he had concerns with your stability and suitability for reintegration at this time.

In a risk assessment last April, a psychological assessment said Wellwoods risk of violent and sexual re-offending remained high.

The parole decision last August also noted Wellwood continues to use sex as a way to cope with negative emotions.

Your psychological risk assessments are very concerning  those specific to psychopathology point to a high risk. You appear to have an entrenched sexual deviance that began at a very young age, and which you acted out in a most violent manner on an innocent woman, said the decision.

Wellwood first applied for day parole in 2019 and was denied. His bid for full parole in 2020 was also rejected.
Sheriffs detectives have arrested one person following a deadly shooting Sunday afternoon in Rio Linda, authorities said.

California Highway Patrol officers were in the area of 8th and U streets investigating an unrelated traffic incident around 3 p.m. when they heard multiple gunshots, Sacramento County Sheriffs Office spokesman Sgt. Amar Gandhi said.

Deputies were dispatched to the scene and located a victim, described as a 43-year-old man, with several gunshot wounds in the driveway of a residence, Gandhi said. Fire personnel responded and pronounced the man dead at the scene.

Detectives arrested one person in connection with the shooting on suspicion of homicide, Gandhi said Monday morning. The suspects identity will be released after booking into jail, he said.

Two people who were inside the residence were initially detained, Gandhi said. It was not immediately clear whether the homicide suspect was among the two detainees.

The homicide investigation remains in early stages, Gandhi said, but based on preliminary information, deputies believe the incident may have started as a family dispute.

The deceased victims identity will be released by the Sacramento County Coroners Office pending notification of family.
[Source]

A man was arrested for allegedly murdering a single mother and dismembering her body in the Shizuoka prefecture of Japan.

Police discovered the dismembered body of Ayumi Ito, 33, in the home of Yuki Tsuchiya, a 31-year-old married man with whom Ito allegedly had an affair.

Itos body parts were found on the balcony of Tsuchiyas home and in his car.

According to local reports, Tsuchiya was arrested on Feb. 23 and has since confessed to dismembering Itos body in his home.

More from NextShark: Florida sushi restaurant owners face 10-year prison sentence for harboring undocumented workers

He reportedly told investigators that he hit Ito on the head with a blunt object in her car and strangled her with a cord.

The crime is believed to have been committed on Feb. 21, when Ito drove to Tsuchiya and had an argument.

Neighbors reportedly heard rattling and banging noises coming from Tsuchiyas home in Numazu, Shizuoka, where he lives with his elderly father, his wife and their two children.

More from NextShark: Chinese Teen Commits Suicide After Mom Slaps Him Publicly at School

Ito lived in Iwata, which is about a two-hour drive from Numazu. Her car was found in a carpark about 280 meters away from Tsuchiyas home.

Police believe Ito and Tsuchiya met in 2022 as members of a committee that contributed to the development of Shizuoka prefecture.

More from NextShark: Indian police station officer arrested for sexually assaulting teen girl who was reporting sexual assault

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Racist Terrorizes Chinese Family's Children, Home in Hate Crime in San Jose
A man is in custody after being accused of bringing a pipe bomb in his truck to a Georgia shopping center, Marietta police say.

The 37-year-old Lincoln, Alabama, man called 911 around 8 a.m. on Feb. 25 and told dispatchers that a truck parked outside the East Gate shopping plaza in Marietta contained an explosive device, the Marietta Police Department said in a news release.

Police said they believed that the threat was real, and they began to evacuate the surrounding areas.

They called in the bomb squad, and a few hours later, a device resembling a pipe bomb was taken out of the truck and safely secured, police said.

The owner of the truck was taken into custody, where police learned that he had called 911 himself after bringing the pipe bomb to the shopping center, according to the release.

Police said they were able to safely open the pipe bomb later and found that, while it did contain explosives, it lacked other components necessary for it to be considered a fully assembled explosive device.

The man was charged with false report of a crime, hoax destructive device and false public alarm.

The investigation remains open, and it is unclear why he traveled to Marietta, or called 911 on himself, police said.

Marietta is 20 miles northwest of Atlanta.

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After serving more than three decades in prison for a murder he insists he didnt commit, Crosley Green may be headed back to jail.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently refused to take up his case, and his conviction is expected to be reinstated. Green was granted house arrest in 2021 after a federal district judge ruled that prosecutors had withheld evidence in the 1989 shooting death of 21-year-old Charles Chip Flynn.

However, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals later overturned the ruling, and the Supreme Courts decision means that Greens conviction will likely be reinstated.

During a news conference in Brevard County, Florida, Keith Harrison, Greens attorney, called it a tragic day for our criminal justice system and said attorneys would work through the state parole and clemency processes to free the 65-year-old.

No one is served by sending Crosley Green back to jail, added Vincent Galluzzo, an attorney with Crowell & Moring, who along with Harrison, provided pro bono legal representation to Green. Crosley is a man of faith. Hes a family man. Hes a working man.

Greens case has been ongoing since his conviction in 1990. He was sentenced to death and then resentenced to life in prison in 2009.

In 2018, U.S. District Judge Roy Dalton Jr. granted what is known as a writ of habeas corpus that could have led to Green receiving a new trial or being freed. Dalton ruled that prosecutors had improperly withheld evidence about police officers suspecting a woman who had dated Flynn in the shooting.

The Florida attorney generals office appealed Daltons ruling, and a panel of the appeals court said Dalton had improperly ruled because the issues about withheld evidence had not been exhausted during appeals in state courts.

The power of the federal courts to grant a writ of habeas corpus setting aside a state prisoners conviction on a claim that his conviction was obtained in violation of the United States Constitution is strictly circumscribed, the panels main opinion said. First, the prisoner must have exhausted his state remedies. He presented the claim to the state courts, and they denied it on the merits.

Story continues

Green and family members appeared at Mondays news conference.

Green expressed concern about how the Supreme Court decision would affect his family and other supporters.

I love my freedom, the freedom I had these last two years, Green said. Its been wonderful. Despite the setback, Green and his legal team vow to continue fighting for his freedom.

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A Georgia man vanished while out of town on a work trip, a situation his wife calls her worst nightmare, news outlets report.

Im heartbroken, Amber Millard told WSB-TV of her husband Nathan Millard. Its a nightmare that I want to wake up from.

Millard, 42, was last seen around 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 23 in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana, according to the citys police department. He was spotted at Happys Irish Pub on Third Street near his hotel but never returned to his room, WAFB and WBRZ reported.

He had traveled to the area from Walton County, Georgia, WANF reported.

Millard is 5 feet, 9 inches and weighs about 180 pounds, police said. He was last seen wearing a black shirt, blue jeans and green ball cap.

Authorities said his phone was found a few blocks from his hotel and his debit card had been used, WBRZ and WSB-TV reported.

Additional information wasnt immediately available.

Anyone with information on Millards whereabouts is asked to contact Baton Rouge police at 225-389-3853 or Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867.

Walton County is about 45 miles east of Atlanta.

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A 35-year-old man was returning to his nonfunctioning vehicle when Delaware State Police say someone fatally shot him west of Felton.

The Houston man, whom police have identified as Joshua Riley, was found early Monday morning in a ditch along a rural Kent County road, said Senior Cpl. Jason Hatchell, a police spokesperson.

Riley's vehicle broke down near Hopkins Cemetery and Marshyhope roads, more than 3 miles from Felton, Hatchell said.

More:Generation Z prefers living in big cities. Here's how many moved to Delaware recently

Riley used a nearby resident's phone to call for help, Hatchell said. He then returned to his vehicle, where there was a confrontation and the man was shot.

He was found at about 12:30 a.m. Monday, Feb. 27, by troopers sent to the area for a report of a subject lying in a ditch. He had a gunshot wound to the upper extremity, Hatchell said.

Riley was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead, according to police.

More:Tracking gun violence in Delaware

The Delaware State Police detectives are asking anyone with information regarding this case to call their homicide unit at (302) 741-2859.

Contact Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299, eparra@delawareonline.com or Twitter @eparra3.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Houston, Delaware, man found fatally shot in ditch near Felton
MARIO ANZUONI

Social media is still rejoicing over Sunday nights Screen Actors Guild Awards where fan-favorite contender Everything Everywhere All At Once did a clean sweep. In addition to Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ke Huay Quan winning in their respective categories, the ensemble took home the biggest award of the night, Outstanding Cast in a Motion Picture. The prize is considered a bellwether for the Best Picture winner at the Oscars.

Ninety-four-year-old screen legend James Hong, who co-stars in the film, is currently going viral for his part of the acceptance speech where he pointed out Hollywoods history of yellowface and the systematic exclusion of Asian actors. Still, despite the joyousness of the casts win, Twitter couldnt help but call out the irony of the actor selected to present the nights final award: controversial actor Mark Wahlberg.

I gotta say, having Mark Wahlberg, who literally went to jail as a teen for committing a hate crime against a Vietnamese man, present an award to the cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once was certainly a choice  Bonnie Stiernberg (@aahrealbonsters) February 27, 2023

I'm sorry, I was working so I'm on a delayed reaction here but the decision to have Mark Wahlberg present Best Film to EEAAO is arguably a worse awards show fuck up than La La Land/Moonlight.  Meredith B. Kile (@em_bee_kay) February 27, 2023

mark wahlberg (whos committed multiple hate crimes including against asian people) giving sag ensemble prize to a predominantly asian cast is genuinely such an embarrassing thing for hollywood to do  onlyfans.com blue essay help (@thehornsections) February 27, 2023

Correct me if I'm wrong but didn't Mark Wahlberg, the man who presented a SAG Award to the cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once, once go to jail for committing a hate crime against a Vietnamese man. An interesting choice, no?  Tarang /  (@tarang_chawla) February 27, 2023

Despite being one of Hollywoods most bankable actorsand proud Catholicsthe Boogie Nights actor has a well-documented history of committing hate crimes against Black and Asian people, stemming from his teenage years. Before Sunday night, his rap sheet had most recently resurfaced after he shared a tribute to George Floyd on Instagram in 2020.

In 1986, when Wahlberg was 16, a civil rights lawsuit was filed against him after several incidents of harassing Black children with racial slurs and throwing rocks at them. (The case was ultimately settled). In 1992, he repeatedly kicked a Black man in the face and fractured his jaw in another case that was settled.

The incidents that followed Wahlberg the most (though not enough to materially impact his career) are his nearly fatal assaults on two Vietnamese-American men in 1998. Over the course of a day, Wahlberg knocked one man unconscious with a wooden stick and punched the other, a Vietnam war veteran, in the eye. Wahlberg admitted to police that he attacked the first victim while making a series of anti-Asian remarks. He was later charged with attempted murder and pleaded guilty to felony assault, for which he was sentenced to two years in prison. Ultimately, he only served 45 days.

Rather controversially, in 2014, Wahlberg applied for (and failed to obtain) a pardon from the state of Massachusetts for his convictions.

Oscars Reveal Absurd Plan to Stop the Next Slap

Of course, seeing Wahlberg present the predominantly Asian cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once with an award in a landmark moment of Asian cinema put a bad taste in viewers mouths. Its unclear whether Wahlberg was chosen to present before or after votes had been tallied. Still, Twitter users lamented the fact that he was able to present at all, particularly in light of Hollywoods reaction to Will Smith following Slapgate at last years Oscars.

The Emancipation star noticeably wasnt at the ceremony to present Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor, as is tradition for the recipient of Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in the previous year.

REALLY interesting that Will Smith wasn't invited to present Best Actress while Mark Wahlberg is presenting the ensemble award to a film with a predominantly Asian cast when he punched and nearly blinded a Vietnamese man...  Matt Samet (@MattSametEsq) February 27, 2023

Will Smith ostracized while Mark Wahlberg get to present an award to an Asian cast. #SAGAwards2023  Torraine Walker (@TorraineWalker) February 27, 2023

It also didnt help that the Father Stu star referred to one of the other films in the category Women Talking as Women Are Talking, a flub the Internet found suspicious if not disrespectful. Suffice it to say, it seems like theres still a long road to the actor rehabilitating his sordid image.

Nepo Baby Jamie Lee Curtis Brings Down the House at SAG Awards

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Chance the Rapper and Martin Short. Getty/Julia Reinhart; Getty/Roy Rochlin

Chance the Rapper received an act of kindness from Martin Short on a recent flight.

The "No Problem" rapper detailed how Short gave up his seat so he could sit next to his daughter.

"What an awesome person!" he wrote. "SHOUTOUT TO JACK FROST."

Chance the Rapper detailed on Sunday how on a recent flight, he ended up on the receiving end of an adorable act of kindness from the "Only Murders in the Building" actor Martin Short.

"So I just got on this plane with my daughter, and found out our seats weren't next to each other," the "No Problem" rapper tweeted.

"I really ain't wanna inconvenience anyone by asking them to swap seats, but before I could say anything this kind older gentleman offered his seat to Kensli so we could sit together," he added. "We both said thank you and as he stands up, I realize it's THE Martin Short!"

Chance, whose real name is Chancelor Bennett, said Kensli, 7, was "freaked out" by the encounter because she loved the movie "The Santa Clause 3," in which Short plays Jack Frost.

"What an awesome person!" the Chicago native added. "SHOUTOUT TO JACK FROST."

Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 26, 2023

One commenter wrote below Chance's tweet: "Martin Short is the only human who really matters." Another added: "He is a gem!"

When one fan joked that Chance should have taken the chance to sit next to Short himself, Chance replied: "Oh thanks so much but the little girl will be fine where she is *opens laptop* ANYWAYS this a lil script I've been working on it's called 'Four Amigos!'"

Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) February 26, 2023

This month, Chance whipped his fans into a frenzy by teasing a special concert to celebrate the 10th anniversary of his sophomore mixtape, "Acid Rap."

Story continues

While the project, which includes features from Twista, Childish Gambino, and Action Bronson, was  and remains  free to download, it ended up charting at No. 63 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums three months after its release because of bootleg downloads on iTunes and Amazon.

To date, it has been downloaded over 1 million times.

On February 1, Chance put together a montage of clips from the time in an Instagram video, which he captioned: "Who wants a show?"

Read the original article on Insider
The charges against a Matanzas High School student accused of attacking a teacher's aide over a video game have been upgraded to adult court where he now faces a felony, according to court records.

Brendan J. Depa, 17, was charged with aggravated battery on a school board employee, a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison. The News-Journal is naming Depa because he was charged as an adult.

The incident occurred on Feb. 21 at the high school in Palm Coast where the woman, identified as Joan Naydich, works as a paraprofessional, according to a charging affidavit. A paraprofessional is assigned to students with individual education plans, according to the district.

What happens next?:How Flagler County School District is handling student's violent attack on teacher's aide

Video released:Video shows student attack Matanzas High School teacher's aide for taking Nintendo Switch

Student arrested:Matanzas High School student accused of attacking teacher's aide charged

The student stated that he was upset because the victim took his Nintendo Switch away from him during class, according to the release.

The student was described as 6 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing 270 pounds, according to a charging affidavit.

Matanzas High School video

School surveillance video shows the student walking fast toward Naydich, knocking her to the floor, which knocked her unconscious, according to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office.

The video showed the student, identified as Depa, kicking and punching an unconscious Naydich several times in the back and head. Depa struck her in the back and the back of the head about 15 times, the affidavit stated.

Other people rushed in to help Naydich who could not protect herself, the release stated.

She was taken to a hospital for treatment.

According to a statement on a GoFundMe account set up for Naydich, she has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home.

Story continues

"This incident has reached areas of the world I never thought possible, with love and support pouring in from all," the statement reads. "As her daughter, its heartwarming to see the community rally behind her recovery, near and far. Please keep my mom and brother in your thoughts during this time.

Following the attack, Depa asked what was going to happen to him and whether he'd be allowed to return to his group home, according to a charging affidavit. When a deputy responded he did not have an answer, Depa began kicking a desk and a computer system, causing a monitor to fall to the floor, the affidavit stated.

As Depa was led away in handcuffs he passed by where medical personnel were treating Naydich. Depa started to spit toward Naydich and then yelled he would kill her, according to the charging affidavit and body camera video.

He's being held on $1 million bail at the Flagler County Jail, according to the sheriff's office.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Matanzas High School attack: Florida student facing felony charge
February 24 marked the one-year anniversary of Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

According to the webpage Russia's War Crimes, Ukraine registered 70,958 war crimes as of Feb. 21.

"In the case of Russias actions in Ukraine, we have examined the evidence. We know the legal standards. And there is no doubt these are crimes against humanity."

U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris,

Munich, Feb. 18

"A dictator bent on rebuilding an empire will never be able to erase the peoples love of liberty. Brutality will never grind down the will of the free. And Ukraine  Ukraine will never be a victory for Russia. Never."

U.S. President Joe Biden,

Warsaw, Feb. 21

"President Putin is entirely responsible for this war, and his latest address proves that he remains unmoored from this reality."

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly,

United Nations, New York City, Feb. 22

The following day (Feb. 23) the United Nations General Assembly voted overwhelmingly in favour of a resolution calling for an end to the war and demanding Russia leave Ukraine. The non-binding resolution advocates for peace, reaffirms support to Ukraines sovereignty, and highlights the need for accountability for war crimes.

The results was 141 member states voted in favour of the resolution and seven voted against it, including Belarus, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Eritrea, Mali, Nicaragua, Russia and Syria. China, India and Pakistan were among the 32 abstentions

On March 17, the rock band U2 will release its new album, Songs of Surrender, which comprises re-recorded and re-interpreted versions of 40 songs from the group's back catalogue.

If alternate universes exist, perhaps in one of them there is a planet Earth where members of U2 record "Peace Talks To Hold, a remake of 1985's "Silver and Gold, first heard on the benefit album Artists Against Apartheid, featuring Bono, Keith Richards and Ron Wood.

U2 recorded a studio version of "Silver and Gold" in 1987, followed by a live version which appears on their 1988 documentary album, Rattle and Hum.

The new lyrics:

Peace Talks To Hold

In the art school a bomb blast

The cruise missile comes down

Only civilians are hunted

In this scorched-earth town

Scorched-earth town

Emerge from the black nights

Looks like the sky fall down

Quench fires in the daylight

See the blood spilled on the ground

Spilled on the ground

Everyone knows

Starvation grows

If you wanna way out

Peace talks to hold

Broken dreams, broken windows

Broken ceasefires and lives

I look at the evil, it's moving

A pariah surprise

There's a war criminal

And there's people who resist

Jesus, say something

They will persist!

They will persist!

They will persist!

The hellscape grows

Atrocities show

The only way out

Peace talks to hold

Peace talks to hold

Seen empty baby strollers

Seen dead children and their moms

Seen them army uniforms

Seen them bright and shiny bombs

Bright shiny bombs

Hypersonic missiles fired

Their speed Mach 5 hot

Mister, Ukrainians have souls

And it's more than you got

Chains will never bind them

Nor will shackles at their feet

Russians are the prisoners

And the West is free

They are free

They are free

A great leader in a crisis is bold

Press to the goal

Peace talks to hold

Peace talks to hold

Spoken:

Yep, when are the peace talks?

This song was written about a man named Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine, the new St. Patrick.

His goal? To drive out those old snakes once again.

A man who's sick of seeing Mariupol under siege.

A man who said droppin' a bomb on a maternity hospital is the ultimate proof of Ukrainian genocide.

A man who's sick of lookin' down the barrel of the Russian army.

A man who has rallied his countrymen to take up arms against an unprovoked invasion.

A man who said, "I need ammunition, not a ride."

A man who is askin more from the leaders of the West, and from those in the Middle East, like Israel.

A man who said Jerusalem is the right place for peace talks with Russia.

Am I buggin' you? I don't mean to bug ya...

OK Edge, play the blues!

Here is a YouTube link to the instrumental version of "Silver and Gold."

If you feel inspired, sing the new lyrics over the audio track, and upload the video to YouTube and/or TikTok. Maybe your version will go viral.

I also encourage school, college/university and church choirs to perform "Peace Talks To Hold" at special events.

David Buckna, Kelowna
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With Sleep Week 2023 in full swing, brands are offering massive discounts across the board on hybrid, foam, and innerspring mattresses. If you've been holding off on upgrading your bedroom, now is the best time to take the plunge on a new mattress.

However, even with cut prices, buying a mattress online can be an overwhelming process. With so many mattress-in-a-box options available, deciding where best to spend your hard-earned cash can be difficult. It doesnt help that high-quality mattresses dont come cheap. While many companies offer generous trial periods to mitigate the risk, making such a big purchase is still daunting, especially when you factor in shipping costs.

Fortunately, while there are a few exceptions, most mattress-in-a-box companies offer free shipping, with others also offering free white glove delivery for cumbersome items.

From established giants to niche brands, weve gathered together every mattress-in-a-box company that offers free shipping.

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Leesa

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Leesa

The Leesa Hybrid is currently our favorite mattress in a box. Its not a budget pick, but its hard to beat the Leesa Hybrid if you can afford it. Fortunately, while the mattress is a bit pricey, Leesa offers free no-contact shipping and a 100-night sleep trial. One thing to remember with the Leesa is that the mattress is pretty heavy, so make sure you have someone to help set it up.

Shop mattresses at Leesa

Tuft & Needle

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Tuft & Needle

Our pick for the best affordable mattress is the Tuft & Needle Original, the best bet for savvy shoppers on a budget. Tuf & Needle offers free shipping within the contiguous United States and has a 100-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Tuft & Needle

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Saatva

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Saatva

The Saatva Classic in Luxury Firm is a delight and offers a firm sleeping surface and great edge support. Unlike many mattresses on this list, the Saatva classic does not ship in a box but arrives fully unfurled. Fortunately, Saatva offers free shipping and free in-room white glove delivery.

Shop mattresses at Saatva

Lull

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Lull

The Lull Orginal is our pick for the best firm and best foam mattress. Lull offers free shipping within the contiguous United States and has a generous 365-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Lull

Purple

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Purple

The Purple mattress impressed us with its ultra-comfortable sleep surface, excellent heat diffusion and outstanding motion isolation. Free shipping is available for all mattresses within the contiguous United States, and in addition, Purple will provide free white glove delivery for certain mattresses and bed frames. Like most mattresses on this list, Purple also offers a 100-night trial period. However, returns can only be initiated after 21 days.

Shop mattresses at Purple

Awara

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Awara

Awara mattresses are a great choice for anyone who wants a firm, low-heat, no-odor bed that feels like it came from a traditional mattress store (and not a box). The company offers free shipping within the contiguous United States and a 365-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Awara

DreamCloud

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: DreamCloud

DreamCloud offers free shipping (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) and a 365-night trial period for all its mattresses.

Shop mattresses at DreamCloud

Serta

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Serta

While its mainly known for its traditional mattresses, Serta makes some of the best-value foam mattresses. Serta offers free shipping for its Perfect Sleeper mattresses and a 100-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Serta

Bear

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Bear

Bear mattresses live up to their namesake; they are solid, sturdy, and heavy. Bear offers free shipping (excluding Alaska and Hawaii) and a 120-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Bear

Nectar

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Nectar

The Nectar Mattress is a good quality mattress that doesnt hold onto heat and is pleasant to sleep on, but some will find it too soft. Along with a 365-night trial period, Nectar offers free shipping on its mattresses.

Shop mattresses at Nectar

Tempur-Pedic

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Tempur-Pedic

Tempur-Pedic offers free shipping within the contiguous United States. White glove delivery is available for selected mattresses. The company offers a 90-night trial period; however, returns can only be initiated after 30 days.

Shop mattresses at Tempur-Pedic

Allswell

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Allswell

Allswell has gotten a lot of things right with its mattress-in-a-box options. We were impressed when we tested the Supreme and found it supportive and surprisingly luxurious, considering the affordable price. Allswell offers free shipping on its mattresses and a 100-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Allswell

Casper

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Casper

The originator of the mattress-in-a-box, Casper, has struggled to keep pace within the ultra-competitive space. Casper offers free shipping within the contiguous United States and all mattresses come with a 100-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Casper

Brooklyn Bedding

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Brooklyn Bedding

Brooklyn Beddings mattresses can be hit or miss, but you could do far worse if youre looking for an affordable hybrid option. Brooklyn Bedding offers free shipping (excluding Alaska and Hawaii), and each mattress has a 120-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Brooklyn Bedding

Cocoon by Sealy

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Cocoon by Sealy

The Cocoon Chill mattress comes through on its promise: It stays relatively cool and provides cozy support at a reasonable price. Sealy offers free shipping and a 100-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Sealy

Ghostbed

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Ghostbed

Ghostbed mattresses offer unparalleled heat diffusion and are great at limiting motion transfer. The company offers free shipping as well as a 101-night trial period.

Shop mattresses at Ghostbed

Lucid

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Lucid

Starting at only $325 for a queen, Lucid is a great option for mattress shoppers on a budget. Lucid offers free shipping. However, the trial period is only 30 days.

Shop Lucid mattresses at Amazon

Puffy

Mattress brands that offer free shipping: Puffy

Puffy specializes in soft mattresses with a fair amount of cushioning. Puffy offers free shipping on mattresses and a 101-night free trial period.

Shop mattresses at Puffy

The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews and more.

Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

This article originally appeared on Reviewed: Mattresses with free shipping: Picks from Leesa, Nectar, Lull, and more
Hello and welcome back to Max Q! Today we're thinking of the four astronauts heading to the International Space Station. See you guys soon!

In this issue:

Artificial gravity space station startup Vast makes its first acquisition

Relativity Space sets a launch date

News from Momentus, United Launch Alliance and more

Vast Space, a company that emerged from stealth last September with the aim of building artificial gravity space stations in low Earth orbit, has acquired space tug startup Launcher.

The acquisition, a first for Vast, will give the company access to Launchers Orbiter space tug and payload platform and its liquid rocket engine, E-2. Under the terms of the deal, Vast will also absorb all of Launchers talent, including Launcher founder Max Haot, who will join as president.

The deal could be a big accelerator for Vast; the companys founder, billionaire crypto pioneer Jed McCaleb, said Vast will use the Orbiter tug to test space station subsystems and components in orbit as soon as June of this year, and then again around October. More generally, McCaleb said that acquisitions are not part of Vasts larger strategy. Acquisitions typically go pretty wrong, he said. For the most part, the combined team now plus a few more folks, well be able to do quite a bit.

vast space station

Vast Space station. Image Credits: Vast Space

Relativity Space has finally received its launch license from U.S. regulators, clearing the way for the company's first-ever orbital flight attempt on March 8.

Relativity will be attempting to send its lightweight rocket Terran 1 to orbit for the first time, in a demonstration mission that will not carry any customer payloads. The company is quick to point out that, at 110-feet tall and 85% 3D-printed by mass, Terran 1 is the largest 3D-printed object to attempt orbital flight and the largest 3D-printed object to exist, period. Sending it to space will be no small feat, and indeed, this flight will see Relativitys 3D-printed architecture and approach put to the test for the first time.

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You'll be able to watch a livestream of the launch on YouTube or via Relativity's website.

Relativity Space Terran 1

Relativity Space Terran 1. Image Credits: Relativity Space

More news from TC and beyond

Kreios Space , a startup developing an electric propulsion system for very low Earth orbit, landed a new investment from Swiss investment firm SpaceQuest Ventures. (SpaceQuest)

Momentus released a slew of news this week: It announced three missions for 2023; a $10 million investment; that it was settling a lawsuit for $8.5 million, of which around $4 million is expected to be paid by insurance; and that its Vigoride-5 spacecraft is in good health. (Momentus/Momentus/Momentus/Momentus)

Payload's Mo Islam offered a really smart prediction of SpaceX's 2023 revenue, adding that he expects a Starlink IPO is likely over the next 18-24 months. (Payload)

Polaris Dawn , the first private spaceflight mission of billionaire Jared Isaacman's Polaris Program, is now scheduled to launch this summer. (Polaris)

SpaceX is changing prices for Starlink residential customers, raising prices in some "limited capacity" areas but lowering prices in "excess capacity" areas. (CNBC)

Terran Orbital scored a $2.4 billion contract to design and build 300 satellites for Rivada Space Networks, which will be paid out via "milestone payments," according to filings. (SEC)

Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants to establish a Texas Space Commission, and is requesting $350 million from legislators to fund the commission for two years. It's unclear how that money will be spent. (Ars Technica)

Samsung is planning to integrate cell phone-to-satellite tech into its line of "Exynos" modem processors, and presumably to future smartphones. (Samsung)

United Launch Alliance is targeting May 4 for the debut launch of its Vulcan rocket, CEO Tory Bruno told reporters on a call.

Max Q is brought to you by me, Aria Alamalhodaei. If you enjoy reading Max Q, consider forwarding it to a friend.
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Hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 are on the decline following a winter wave of XBB.1.5, a recent Omicron subvariantbut were not out of the woods just yet. Researchers are warning about a potential second wave of death in the pandemic from conditions associated with long COVID such as lung scarring that destroys the tissue, air sacs, and tiny blood vessels in the lungs.

Scarring leads to a permanent inability for the lungs to carry oxygen and can lead to heart failure if severe. Many questions remain about why certain patients develop this condition, called lung fibrosis, and whether it can be prevented and reversed before they require lung transplants.

Luckily, theres new hope. A new study led by Stanford University researchers highlights an underlying genetic cause for long COVID fibrosisand was able to prevent it from developing in mice. The study was published on Feb. 27 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

This represents a much-needed model of post-viral induced lung fibrosis that is highly relevant to fibrotic lung diseases, Harry Karmouty-Quintana, a pulmonary disease researcher at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston who was not involved in the research, told The Daily Beast. Understanding how severe cases of fibrosis arise in long COVID, he added, could help pulmonologists identify and treat these patients early.

An Old Diabetes Drug May Protect You Against Long COVID

While rare, over 200 lung transplants had been performed in the U.S. for severe, irreversible lung damage caused by COVID-19. And unlike other conditions that can require a lung transplant in years or decades, a December study found that long COVID can cause a persons condition to deteriorate in months.

Treating this condition poses a significant challenge to global health, the authors write in the new study. But doing so, they add, is essential to prevent a second wave of late mortality associated with this pandemic among people with fibrosis due to COVID-19.

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Genetics likely plays a prominent role in this condition, Karmouty-Quintana said. A set of genes drive the repair of damaged cells, and in the case of a better-studied condition like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, its the overactivity of certain genes that causes harmful scarring.

Long COVID Can Kill, CDC Study Says

In the new study, the researchers genetically sequenced lung samples taken from five long COVID patients who required lung transplants and compared them to sequencing done on lung samples from controls of people who died from unrelated causes. The form of sequencing they used allowed them to quantify the activity of different genes. Ultimately, they found that the development of long COVID-associated fibrosis seemed to be triggered by an overactivation of the innate immune systemthe bodys first responders to infection that can bring about nonspecific, widespread inflammation in their efforts to incapacitate an invader.

Next, the researchers created mice carrying human lung organoids, which are three-dimensional clusters of human cells. They then infected these mice with an engineered version of SARS-CoV-2 and gave them a drug that damaged their lungs to recreate a mouse model of long COVID fibrosis. After two weeks, the researchers treated the mice with a combination of two antibodies to block genes associated with innate immunity in order to tamp down the overreaction believed to cause lung scarring.

Four weeks later, the antibody-treated mices fibrosis reversed, restoring their lungs to normal appearance and function compared to untreated mice. These antibodies could represent potential therapeutic targets, the authors wrote, though future tests in humans are needed.

What Medicine Keeps Getting Wrong About Long COVIDand How to Fix It

Karmouty-Quintana said that additional studies should look at rats, which are considered the fields standard when it comes to respiratory viruses. Additionally, these findings could inform research into chronic respiratory problems stemming from other viral infections, as these, too, have been associated with the innate immune system. The eventual goal, he added, would be to prevent lung scarring before it becomes irreversible.

There is an opportunity to intervene with treatments before patients progress to fibrosisI think that's exciting, he said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Virginia Rep.-elect Jennifer McClellan (D) is poised to make history when she is sworn into Congress, becoming the first Black woman to represent the commonwealth on Capitol Hill.

The nature of her historic win wasnt lost on her. McClellan told The Hill that during her campaigning, she was very aware of what a win would mean not just for her, but also for Black women across the nation.

It still blows my mind that there are firsts in 2023 but it is a tremendous honor and a tremendous responsibility, McClellan, 50, said. Its an honor knowing that I am my ancestors wildest dreams and I stand on their shoulders. To be the first Black woman from Virginia, the birthplace of both American democracy and American slavery and massive resistance, is poetic justice.

McClellans political rise has been a gradual one, serving in Virginias House of Delegates and state Senate. In 2021, she came in a distant third place in the states Democratic gubernatorial primary, losing to former Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D).

But nearly two years later, McClellan is looking to hit the ground running in Congress with an eye on expanding voting rights and improving education.

Shes going to be one of the younger people in the delegation and shes in a relatively safe seat, said veteran Virginia political analyst Bob Holsworth. I expect her to move up in Congress because people are going to love her work ethic and theyre going to love working with her.

Throughout her time in the state legislature, McClellan has focused on progressive policies, from expanding abortion access to ensuring that Virginia became the first state in the south to pass a comprehensive voting rights act.

Now, she wants the federal government to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In 2013, the landmark Shelby County v. Holder Supreme Court ruling gutted protections from discrimination guaranteed by the law. As a result, strict voter enforcement laws arose, including voter ID laws, which had previously been barred and which disproportionately impact Black Americans.

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Voting rights, McClellan told The Hill, are sacred in her family.

Both her parents grew up during the civil rights movement, and voting wasnt easy to do.

My dad paid poll taxes to vote, and his dad paid poll taxes. My great grandfather had to take a literacy test and find three white men to vouch for him to be able to vote, McClellan said.

The right to vote, she added, is how Americans are able to participate in the government  and how the government upholds its promise to be by and for the people.

I learned very early as a delegate in the Virginia House of Delegates, everybodys political views are shaped by their life and what they know, McClellan said. As more people who lived during Jim Crow are dying, were losing those stories and were in a battle right now over whether theyll be taught in our schools. So being a voice to bring those stories and those perspectives to the halls of Congress is really important to me.

McClellan has also homed in on energy and environment related issues, notably brokering a compromise between environmentalists and Dominion Energy.

While shes clearly what I would consider a center-left Democrat, she also has the capacity to work across the aisle at times because of her personality, Holsworth said.

While Virginias 4th Congressional District is considered a safe seat for Democrats, McClellan shattered expectations in her campaign to replace the late Rep. Donald McEachin (D), defeating her opponent by 50 points.

That was a statement of how fired up people are no matter what the stakes are, said Gianni Snidle, communications director for the Virginia Senate Democratic Caucus. Truly it seems they want to make their voices on Democratic values.

But McClellan also said her win is helping close an imagination gap that doesnt see Black women in political seats.

I think recognizing what I faced in that race put an imagination gap because people had never seen  and I think [Georgia gubernatorial candidate] Stacey Abrams saw this  people have never seen a Black woman in the role, she said. They couldnt imagine that and yet, all across the country, there are Black women who are doing amazing things and are just as qualified or just as capable as other candidates who have succeeded. And I think we just need to stretch our imagination a little bit and support them.

Democratic strategist Atima Omara said that some of this perception is starting to change as a result of the 2016 election and voters desire to see a more reflective democracy.

I feel like the attitude of the culture has shifted, certainly in the last six years, as I think people really started thinking about what does representation look like with the 2016 election and how can we make our democracy more reflective of that, said Omara, who ran for a seat in the Virginia General Assembly in 2014.

But the imagination gap still persists, Omara said, in part because of a deep bias about what Black women should be doing. Omara points to the praise Abrams received for her organizing, but the admonishment that followed her when she expressed interest in potentially being part of President Bidens cabinet.

People admire a Black woman when she does the labor, when she does the work in service, explained Omara. But when she dares to step out and say, I am qualified to lead this organization, this company, to represent you in Congress  folks start to question your ability because how dare you put yourself forward, you are supposed to be in service, not leading.

Now, Omara said she expects to see McClellan use her time in Congress to further the legacy of McEachin, who was an advocate for environmental justice, among other things.

But McClellan has also led on advocating for abortion access during her time in the legislature and on the campaign trail.

Earlier this month, Republicans in the House of Delegates defeated an effort led by McClellan to allow Virginia voters to decide whether abortion access should be enshrined in the commonwealths constitution. While the effort was rejected, it will likely leave a mark going into Novembers elections.

It is something the Democrats are going to run on in all of the suburban competitive districts this year, Holsworth said.

McClellan told The Hill that she plans to continue this effort in Congress.

I was very instrumental in expanding access to health care and reproductive health care here in Virginia, McClellan said. Passing the first bill in the south to remove barriers to access to abortion, and thats something that we need to do at the federal level now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

McClellan said even with her historical win, there remains a responsibility to ensure she is not the last Black woman to make history  in her state, or across the country.

I think the first step is to support the Black women that are leading at the state level, at the local level, in the party, who are building a bench and are building the experience needed to run at higher levels. And then when they step forward to run, pay homage to that experience and work.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Kentucky school superintendent resigned last week, a day before he was arrested on charges of carrying a gun onto school property.

The McCreary County School board accepted the resignation of John Gunn last Monday. Tuesday, he was charged with unlawful possession of a weapon on school property.

According to the arrest citation, video from the district's camera system allegedly shows Gunn attempting to enter the McCreary County Board of Education building at 6:02 a.m. He admitted to "having the handgun in his possession while trying to enter the building."

More:Clarksville Roosters restaurant destroyed after morning fire

Most of the board voted in favor of Gunn's resignation, but two members voted against his removal.

"After reviewing the information that was given by the board attorney, KDE and OEA, I don't see any grounds for dismissal," board member Stacey Hammons said at the Monday meeting. "I don't think it's in the best interest of the district to accept the resignation."

For subscribers: Why neighbors are fighting a Louisville church over its plans to build affordable housing

At a board meeting the following Wednesday, it appointed Larry Hammond as the interim superintendent. Hammond was previously a superintendent at the Rockcastle County school district and has worked for the Kentucky Department of Education among other positions.

Contact reporter Rae Johnson at RNJohnson@gannett.com. Follow them on Twitter at @RaeJ_33.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: John Gunn, McCreary County schools superintendent resigns, arrested
Wizz Air is suspending all flights to and from Chisinau beginning March 14, invoking "recent developments in Moldova and a high risk in the air space", Romanian news site HotNews reported.

In its statement, Wizz Air said that the "difficult but responsible" decision was made after being "in permanent contact with various local and international authorities and agencies to ensure the highest level of safety and security in operations," according to HotNews.

The press release about the suspension could not be found on Wizz Air's site but currently it's impossible to book Wizz Air flights to and from Chisinau after March 14.

The Moldovan authorities recently denied Russian claims that Ukraine is planning a provocation against Transnistria, a breakaway region of Moldova. Transnistria, which is internationally recognized as part of Moldova, has been under Russian occupation since 1992.

There is growing concern that Russia's war against Ukraine might spill over into neighboring Moldova. On Feb. 21, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Rechan confirmed in an interview to TV8 that the authorities were aware of "several" Russian destabilization scenarios, including Russia's plan to take control of the Chisinau airport.

This came after President Zelensky said that Ukrainian intelligence had intercepted a Russian plan to destabilize the political situation and seize power in Moldova.

On Feb. 14, Moldova temporarily closed its airspace for three hours "to ensure the safety and security of civil aviation."

Due to the suspension, Wizz Air will now increase its flight offerings in Iasi, a neighboring city in Romania. This includes the addition of a new route from Iasi to Berlin. Furthermore, Wizz Air will increase the number of flights from Iasi to Barcelona, Milano Bergamo, Bologna, Roma Ciampino, Roma Fiumicino, Dortmund, Larnaca, London Luton, and Treviso.








NASA and SpaceX are scheduled to launch four astronauts to the International Space Station aboard a Falcon 9 rocket early Thursday as part of their Crew-6 mission.

The next launch attempt for Crew-6 is scheduled for Thursday at 12:34 a.m.

With the countdown to launch only days away, heres what you need to know about the four astronauts scheduled to be on board:

NASA Astronaut Stephen G. Bowen

According to NASA, Bowen was the first Submarine Officer to be selected as an astronaut by NASA. He has logged more than 40 days in space including 47 hours and 18 minutes in seven spacewalks. NASA said he is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station as commander of NASAs SpaceX Crew-6 mission.

Read: NASA, SpaceX delay launch of Crew-6 mission after technical issue, next attempt Thursday

NASA Astronaut Warren Hoburg

Warren Woody Hoburg was selected by NASA to join the 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class. NASA said the Pennsylvania native earned a bachelors degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a Doctorate in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of California, Berkeley. Hoburg is scheduled to launch to the International Space Station as pilot of NASAs SpaceX Crew-6 mission.

Read: NASA, SpaceX complete rehearsals for Crew-6 launch to International Space Station

UAE (United Arab Emirates) astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi

According to UAE National Space Programme, AlNeyadi is a native of Abu Dhabi who previously served in the Armed Forces before earning his PhD in Information Technology (Data Leakage Prevention) in Australia. UAE National Space Programme officials said AlNeyadi completed his first year of training at NASAs Johnson Space Center in 2021, becoming officially certified to work as an operator onboard the International Space Station. He will surve as a mission specialist on NASAs SpaceX Crew-6 mission.

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Read: SpaceX plans for Falcon 9 rocket launch from Floridas Space Coast this weekend

Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev

According to the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, Fedyaev graduated from the Krasnodar Military Aviation Institute with a degree in Operation of Air Transport and Air Traffic Control, Pilot Engineer in 2004. Fedyaev will serve as a mission specialist on NASAs SpaceX Crew-6 mission as part of an agreement between the State Corporation Roscosmos and NASA.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Fela Kuti

In the 20th century, Africa produced several significant political figures. Influential leaders, like Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, and Nelson Mandela of South Africa, were among them. However, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, a revolutionary musician from Nigeria who promoted Pan-Africanism and spoke out in favor of Africans rights, was instrumental in shaping the African political climate of the century.

His groundbreaking music mixed jazz, funk, soul and traditional African rhythms together. His music not only sounds different from anything else, but also has strong political and social messages. Kutis music was replete with anti-establishment messages that spoke to the African people, who had suffered under European colonizers for hundreds of years. The legacy of his music and its impact on African culture lives on to this day.

Kuti was born in Nigeria in 1938 to a prominent political family. His mother was a suffragist, and his father was a nationalist leader in the fight against British colonialism. After studying music at a local school, he moved to London to further his musical education, and then, returned to Nigeria in 1963. After his return, Kuti started playing in a band and soon made a name for himself as one of the most prolific musicians of his time.

His first band was called Koola Lobitos, and its members included his brothers Beko and Olikoye Ransome-Kuti. They played a mix of jazz and highlife music, but Kuti eventually transitioned the band to play the style he called Afrobeat. This new rhythm became a huge hit in Nigeria, and Kuti started to gain recognition both nationally and internationally. His music was revolutionary in its fusion of traditional West African rhythms and Western jazz, which spoke to the youth of the time.

Kuti brought the band to the United States in 1969, and spent ten months in Los Angeles. There, he learned about the Black Power movement and began to get involved in political activism.

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The Fela Kutis first album record cover | Photo Credit: Discogs website  His masters voice record company

Pan-Africanism

Kuti was able to bring together people from all walks of life and become a leader of the Pan-African movement by making his music political. He sought to use his music to inspire the youth of Nigeria and throughout the continent. He aimed to make them aware of their shared African heritage and history.

He saw his music as an opportunity to help the people of his native continent and actively promote its ideas. In his songs, he spoke about ending oppression, empowering those who had been marginalized by colonial powers and demanding change.

He advocated for Pan-Africanism through his lyrics and went on to create a musical group, called The African Dreamers, which spread the ideas of the movement around Nigeria. They were a symbol of the fight against oppression, and Kuti became an international celebrity. In 1976, the album Zombie established Kuti as a political force to be reckoned with and highlighted the issues of corruption, social injustice and police brutality that were plaguing Nigeria at the time.

Im not your average politician, Kuti said in a 1986 interview with SPIN magazine. I believe in higher forces. I believe that suffering has a purpose. I cannot suffer like this for no reason. Im not working for any selfish reason or ulterior motives. Im working for the improvement of my fellow man.

Fela Kuti Kalakuta Republic

Polygamy was a key part of Kutis vision for the African nation. He saw it as an alternative to the traditional nuclear family. He married twenty-seven wives throughout his lifetime and set up a communal living situation in his home, which he named the Kalakuta Republic.

It was very controversial, and the government attempted to shut down the Kalakuta Republic. However, it was so popular with the people of Nigeria that Kuti and his family were able to resist. Today, Kalakuta Republic is a tourist attraction in Lagos, which pays homage to the legacy of Kuti.

The Life of Fela Kuti

The Nigerian star was often arrested, and his music was often banned by the government because of his involvement in politics. Despite this, Nigerians loved him as he served as an inspiration to people all over the African continent and the African diaspora around the world.

He died in 1997. His funeral was attended by hundreds of thousands of people, who paid their respects to the man who had dedicated his life to fighting for democracy and justice in Nigeria. Kuti was a beacon of hope for many, and despite the governments efforts to silence him, his music and messages had a lasting impact on the people of Nigeria and in Africa.

In 2014, Kutis life was portrayed in the movie Finding Fela. It examined the challenges and triumphs of this legendary Nigerian musician.
Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Generation Zalpha is a major target for marketers because of its talent and its spending power.

A combo of Generations Z and Alpha, Zalpha includes anyone born after 1996.

There are key differences between Gens Z and Alpha: mainly, when they were given access to screens.

You've heard of Generation Z. You may have heard of Generation Alpha. Now meet Generation Zalpha.

Much as the name implies, the Zalpha generation can best be described as a combo generation  not to be confused with the similarly named zillennials, a micro-generation born from 1990 to 2000, right between millennials and Gen Zers.

Confused yet? Then you're probably not a Zalpha. Members of the generation are young, they're internet-savvy, and marketers are clamoring for their cash and expertise.

What is Generation Zalpha?

"Zalpha" describes anyone born after 1996. That means it contains all of Gen Z, whose members are born from 1996 to 2012, and Gen Alpha, which spans the birth years 2013 to 2025.

That younger cohort, Gen Alpha, is the first generation to be born entirely in the 21st century  hence the name "Alpha," the first letter of the Greek alphabet, Axios noted.

We want to hear from you: Are you part of Generation Zalpha? Tell us in this form.

While it's impossible to pinpoint who coined "Zalpha," the term was popularized by Kristin Patrick, the chief marketing officer of Claire's, who created the shorthand to describe the teen jewelry and accessories retailer's core clientele, The New York Times reports.

Why are marketers trying to win over Zalphas?

Zalphas, particularly members of Gen Alpha, are mostly the children of millennials and grew up entirely online.

Because they're still so young  the oldest Gen Alphas are turning 10 this year  marketers have to walk a fine line between appealing to kids, tweens, and teens without alienating their parents, Jacee Scoular, the senior director of brand marketing and communications for Hollister and its sister brands, Gilly Hicks and Social Tourist, recently told AdAge.

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"Our email file and loyalty program are mostly parents so we would never use Gen Z slang in a subject line," Scoular said. "But on our social, we're a much different brand. We have a youthful voice, memes that crush it, content that is super raw and unfiltered, designed by a 21-year-old on her phone that's destroying engagement rates."

The company isn't alone in hiring Zalphas  or, rather, Gen Zers  to handle social-media marketing. The language-learning app Duolingo has an award-winning, 24-year-old social-media manager; while Nerf hired a 22-year-old "chief TikTok officer," Fast Company reported.

The internet-native Zalpha generation is a prime target for brands for another reason: its potential spending power. A Bain & Company report from January predicted Zalphas' spending would grow three times faster than other generations' by 2030.

The report also said the generation would make up a third of luxury consumers by the end of the decade, citing what it described as a "precocious attitude toward luxury."

Wait, but how do Generations Z and Alpha differ?

Patrick recently told AdAge that Gen Alpha was like Gen Z "on steroids."

"They are idealistic about the world. They cheer for diversity and demand it. They question their gender ... They're highly creative. They're entrepreneurial," she said, adding that Gen Alpha was born in a world "where Alexa always existed."

While Gen Z is often described as having grown up online, Gen Alpha was born online. Ashley Fell, a social researcher at the Australian agency McCrindle, told Axios that kids born into Gen Alpha were part of an "unintentional global experiment" where screens were given to them at the same time as pacifiers.

Experts therefore predict Gen Alpha will be more impatient than previous generations, because they'll expect their needs to be met instantly.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The grainy photo, which appears to have been taken at night, shows an indistinct creature in a tree

Mexicos president shared what he said was a photo of a mythical woodland elf that he claimed provided evidence of the existence of mischievous Mayan spirits.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador posted a photo to his social media accounts that he claimed showed an alux from ancient folklore.

The grainy photo, which appears to have been taken at night, shows an indistinct creature in a tree. With two bright white eyes and long hair or a headdress, it stares down at the camera. The president suggested the creature resembled a sculpture from an archaeological site on the Yucatan peninsula.

He said the photo had been taken three days earlier by an engineer on the construction site of a new railway line known as the Tren Maya, which will connect tourist destinations, including ancient Mayan sites.

It appears to be an alux, the Leftist friend of Jeremy Corbyn wrote, adding that everything is mystical.

Les comparto dos fotos de nuestra supervision a las obras del Tren Maya: una, tomada por un ingeniero hace tres dias, al parecer de un aluxe; otra, de Diego Prieto de una esplendida escultura prehispanica en Ek Balam. Todo es mistico. pic.twitter.com/Tr5OP2EqmU  Andres Manuel (@lopezobrador_) February 25, 2023

His far-fetched claim came as thousands took to the streets of Mexico City over the weekend to protest against an alleged presidential power grab.

However, social media users were quick to point out that the photo appeared to have been circulating online in various guises for at least two years. Many accused the president of spreading fake news. The original source of the image is unclear.

If you believe this, you are stupid, one user responded to his post, while another added: Its so easy to Google a photo to see if its true or not.

Mr Lopez Obrador has long expressed reverence for indigenous cultures and beliefs. His former environment minister also drew derision in the past for saying she believed in aluxes.

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Mr Lopez Obrador has long expressed reverence for indigenous cultures and beliefs - Reuters/Henry Romero

According to traditional Mayan belief, aluxes are small, mischievous creatures that inhabit forests and fields and are prone to playing tricks on people, like hiding things. Some people leave small offerings to appease them.

The ancient Mayan civilisation reached its height from 300AD to 900AD on the Yucatan Peninsula and in adjacent parts of Central America, but the Mayas descendants continue to live on the peninsula.

Many continue speaking the Mayan language and wearing traditional clothing, while also preserving traditional cuisines, crops, religion and medical practices.

The presidents controversial post came as opponents flooded Constitution Square in Mexico City to protest against his planned overhaul of the electoral authority. Critics say the plan, which includes shrinking the independent agencys budget and staff, threatens to undermine Mexicos democracy.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos president lashed out Monday against demonstrators opposed to his plan to cut election funding, belittling their concerns about threats to democracy and dashing any hopes that he would try to ease rising political tensions.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador seemed to revel in the conflict, hurling insults at the tens of thousands of people who demonstrated over the weekend in Mexico Citys main plaza, calling them thieves and allies of drug traffickers.

There was an increase in the number of pick pockets stealing wallets here in the Zocalo, but what do you want, with so many white-collar criminals in one place? Lopez Obrador said at his daily morning press briefing.

At the root of the conflict are plans by Lopez Obrador, which were approved last week by Mexico's Senate, to cut salaries and funding for local election offices, and scale back training for citizens who operate and oversee polling stations. The changes would also reduce sanctions for candidates who fail to report campaign spending.

Lopez Obrador denies the reforms are a threat to democracy and says criticism is elitist. He argues that the funds should be redirected to helping the poor.

Riffing on the protesters' slogan Don't touch the INE (National Electoral Institute), Lopez Obrador said their slogans were Don't touch corruption, Don't touch privileges, Don't touch the Narco Government.

They don't care about democracy, what they want is to continue with the oligarchy, the rule of the rich," the president said.

Demonstrators say the electoral law changes approved last week threaten democracy and could mark a return to past practices of vote manipulation. Few at Sundays demonstration had any kind words for Lopez Obrador, either.

The path he is taking is toward socialism, communism, said Fernando Gutierrez, 55, a small businessman. Thats obvious, from the aid going to Cuba, Gutierrez said. Lopez Obrador has imported coronavirus vaccines, medical workers and stone railway ballast from Cuba, but has shown little taste for socialist policies at home.

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Sundays demonstrators were clad mostly in white and pink  the color of the National Electoral Institute  and shouted slogans like Dont Touch my Vote! Like a similar but somewhat larger protest on Nov. 13, the demonstrators appeared somewhat more affluent than those at the average demonstration.

The heated nature of the debate drew attention from the U.S. government.

Today, in Mexico, we see a great debate on electoral reforms that are testing the independence of electoral and judicial institutions, Brian A. Nichols, the U.S. assistant secretary of state for Western hemisphere affairs, wrote in his Twitter account. The United States supports independent, well-resourced electoral institutions that strengthen democratic processes and the rule of law."

Lopez Obrador said last Thursday that hell sign the changes into law, even though he expects court challenges. Many at Sundays protest expressed hope that Mexicos Supreme Court would overturn some of the changes.

Lorenzo Cordova, the head of the National Electoral Institute, has said the reforms seek to cut thousands of people who work every day to guarantee trustworthy elections, something that will of course pose a risk for future elections.

The president has pushed back against the judiciary, as well as regulatory and oversight agencies, raising fears among some that he is seeking to reinstitute the practices of the old PRI party, which bent the rules to retain Mexicos presidency for 70 years until its defeat in the 2000 elections.

Tyler Mattiace, who researches the Americas for Human Rights Watch, said it was disappointing that Lopez Obrador decided to make major changes at the one part of Mexican democracy that is clearly working.

Vote counts have become much more reliable since the national electoral institute was founded in the 1990s, and the agency certified Lopez Obrador's own victory in 2018 elections.

It is worrisome that all this comes just before the 2024 elections, in a context in which the president has shown very little tolerance for those who don't agree with him, said Mattiace.

Elections in Mexico are expensive by international standards, in part because almost all legal campaign financing is, by law, supplied by the government. The electoral institute also issues the secure voter ID cards that are the most commonly accepted form of identification in Mexico, and oversees balloting in the remote and often dangerous corners of the country.

Lopez Obrador remains highly popular in Mexico, with approval ratings of around 60%. While he cannot run for reelection, his Morena party is favored in next years national elections and the opposition is in disarray.

Part of his popular appeal comes from railing against high-paid government bureaucrats, and he has been angered by the fact that some top electoral officials are paid more than the president. But Lopez Obrador has also openly criticized oversight and regulatory agencies, the courts and congress.

The opposition, tarnished by corruption scandals, has struggled to compete with the president's popular spending and handout programs.

Ruben Salazar, the director of the Etellekt Consultores firm, said there is "a lack of leadership in the opposition to mount a defense of all these institutions like the INE and the Supreme Court."
Huge crowds protested on Feb. 26, 2023, in Mexico City against the passage of reforms last week that drastically downsizes the country's electoral institute. (Fernando Llano / Associated Press)

Juan Manuel Martinez remembers the days when he would vote in Mexicos elections with no confidence that they were being run fairly.

For decades, the Institutional Revolutionary Party, known as the PRI, remained in power by buying votes or stuffing ballot boxes. Election after election, the same story repeated itself.

No election was clean, democracy didnt exist, the government both controlled the elections and was the referee, which isnt right, said Martinez, a retired 70-year-old accountant. We always knew that they were tricking us, that the candidate that was always going to win was from the PRI.

Demonstrators in Mexico City wore pink, the color of the nation's electoral institute, and chanted, "You don't touch the INE." (Alejandro Cegarra / Bloomberg via Getty Images)

That history motivated Martinez and more than 100,000 others in Mexico City to march Sunday against the major downsizing last week of the agency that oversees Mexicos elections, a measure that they say jeopardizes the countrys democracy and could harm the 2024 presidential race.

Crowds of people wearing pink  the color of the National Electoral Institute, known as the INE  tightly packed the main square downtown. You dont touch the INE, they chanted. One man carried a poster  wrapped in transparent pink cloth  of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Other protests took place across Mexico.

Mexican lawmakers on Wednesday approved the overhaul of the electoral institute, an independent agency that helped Mexico transition from one-party rule a few decades ago. The changes, backed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, drastically reduce the institute's staff and autonomy and are expected to result in a challenge before the nation's Supreme Court.

The electoral institute says that the downsizing  known as "Plan B" because it follows an earlier, failed attempt at an overhaul  will eliminate the jobs of thousands of staffers who organize elections across the country, including identifying spots for polling stations, verifying voting credentials and overseeing the tally. The changes also limit the agencys ability to discipline political candidates who violate campaign spending rules.

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The downsizing diminishes accountability for politicians, which threatens the equity and transparency of the elections," the electoral institute said in a Twitter post.

Passage of the measure has raised bipartisan concerns in the United States. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas) and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Rob Menendez (D-N.J.) released a statement warning that returning Mexico to its dark past of presidentially controlled elections not only sets the clock back on its democracy, but also U.S.-Mexico relations.

In spite of his hope to be remembered as a democrat and champion for the countrys most vulnerable, President Lopez Obradors ongoing efforts to undermine INEs autonomy and independence will assuredly cement his legacy as just the opposite, they said.

A demonstrator dressed as independence hero Miguel Hidalgo held a sign that reads "You don't touch the INE" during the Mexico City march on Feb. 26, 2023. (Fernando Llano / Associated Press)

The electoral institute has been credited with facilitating fair elections in Mexico and allowing the country to move away from 71 years of one-party rule under the PRI.

A 1996 reform that shielded the agency  known then as the Federal Electoral Institute  from political interference created the conditions for opposition party candidate Vicente Fox to win the presidency in 2000.

Lopez Obrador, leader of his Morena party, has long attacked the electoral institute even though it oversaw the election that in 2018 swept him into office in a landslide. After he first ran for president in 2006 and lost by less than 1% of the vote, he accused the agency of being complicit in voter fraud.

The president, who took power promising a radical transformation to combat corruption and inequality and has enjoyed high approval ratings, denies that the reforms will put elections at risk. In December he said that the agency needs a more austere budget so that it can do more with less, like everyone.

He sought to cast doubt on the motives of Sunday's protesters, saying that they are people who in one way or another benefited from corruption. He also tried to tie them to Genaro Garcia Luna, Mexicos former top law enforcement official who last week was convicted of taking millions of dollars in bribes from drug traffickers.

Tens of thousands of protesters tightly packed the Zocalo, or central square, in downtown Mexico City. (Fernando Llano / Associated Press)

They are coming to say, You cant touch the INE, but also you cant touch Garcia Luna, and ultimately its you cant touch the corrupt and conservative regime, he told reporters at a recent news conference. #Marchofthenarcos later trended on Twitter.

The protest in Mexico Citys central square, or Zocalo, included a speech by a former Mexican Supreme Court justice who said he was confident that the current justices expected to hear challenges to the reform will "preserve the democratic life of the country."

Much of the crowd was made up of senior citizens who recalled elections under one-party rule. When asked why she attended, an 81-year-old woman simply waved her hand: Im a democrat, she said.

Many said that Lopez Obrador  who cannot run again  is weakening the electoral institute in an attempt to keep his party in power past his six-year term as president. An election can be jeopardized if the institute lacks the infrastructure to count votes.

"He wants to destroy the freedom Mexico has to decide who votes. We are coming to defend democracy," said Fernando Hernandez Martinez, 45, a gym teacher who voted for Lopez Obrador in 2018. He brainwashed us, he said that hes the messiah Mexico is waiting for and he tricked us."

Sanchez is a special correspondent.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- Mexicans marched Sunday against President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors overhaul of the electoral system, with demonstrators nationwide criticizing the reforms ahead of next years elections.

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Thousands of marchers wearing pink and white, the colors of the electoral body, filled Mexico Citys central square, the Zocalo, according to images broadcast on Milenio TV, which said that people were protesting in more than 100 cities. Mexicans abroad protested as well, including in Madrid. Protesters carried signs with the message, Do not touch my vote.

Lopez Obradors changes seek to reduce funding for the INE, as the electoral body is known, and trim its workforce. The regulator and electoral court are untrustworthy, the president, known as AMLO, has said. The Senate passed the electoral bill on Feb. 22 after the government failed to achieve a broader overhaul that required changing the constitution. The original proposal included changes to how electoral authorities are chosen.

Here in this Zocalo there is hope, Beatriz Pages, a protest organizer and a former lawmaker for the PRI party, said in a speech at the Mexico City protest broadcast on Milenio TV. Pages called on demonstrators to join her in a long, long battle for democracy.

Senator Josefina Vazquez Mota and lower house lawmaker Santiago Creel, both of the opposition PAN party, posted photos of themselves at the Mexico City demonstration on their respective Twitter accounts.

The massive anti-government march, the second in over three months, comes as AMLO intensifies his clashes with the opposition as both sides define their positions ahead of the July 2024 presidential election. Lopez Obrador remains widely popular, with an El Financiero poll early this month saying 54% of Mexicans approve of his job in office while 45% reject it.

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The opposition, which denounces the proposed changes as an attempt to tamper with next years elections, will ask the Supreme Court to annul the legislation, arguing that it requires a two-thirds majority in congress to change the constitution.

Late on Sunday, the Biden administration weighed in, with Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Brian Nichols saying in a tweet that the US supports independent, well-resourced electoral institutions that strengthen democratic processes and the rule of law.

While organizers estimated half a million people marched in the Mexican capital on Sunday, authorities for the local government, controlled by AMLOs party, put that number closer to 90,000, according to newspaper El Universal.

(Updates with US government comment in eighth paragraph, attendance estimates on last paragraph.)

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Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan had time on the red carpet to clear the air with an interviewer who previously admitted on a podcast that she and her friends teased him in high school.

During an Atlanta premiere event for Creed III, the actor spoke with The Morning Hustle host Lorel. She congratulated Jordan on his latest film and mentioned they attended the same school in New Jersey.

The post Michael B. Jordan To Interviewer Who Previously Said She Teased Him In School: Oh Yeah, I Was The Corny Kid, Right? appeared first on Blavity.

We go way back, all the way back to Chad Science [Academy] in Newark, Lorel said.

Jordan then called out the reporter, saying, Oh yeah, I was the corny kid, right?

The actor referred to a comment on an episode of The Undressing Room podcast in 2021.

As previously reported by Madame Noire, the remark came from Lorel speaking about Jordans Valentines Day gift to then-girlfriend Lori Harvey with co-hosts Eva Marcille and Dominique da Diva.

The actor had taken the model to the aquarium, where he gifted her with Hermes stock certificates.

Dominique da Diva revealed she wasnt surprised by Jordans grand gesture, calling him a nice, corny guy.

We all know the nice, corny guys treat you the best, she said.

Lorel agreed with her co-host, saying, You know whats so crazy? I went to school with Michael B. Jordan at a point in life. And to be honest with you, we teased him all the damn time because his name was Michael Jordan. Lets start there, and he was no Michael Jordan. And he also would come to school with a headshot. We lived in Newark, thats the hood. We would make fun of him like, What you gonna do with your stupid headshot!? And now look at him!

While speaking with Jordan on the red carpet, Lorel insisted she was misquoted. However, the actor didnt buy it and said he heard her call him corny.

No, you did not hear me say that! I said we used to make fun of the name, she declared. Lorel then changed the subject, pointing out Jordans continuing success in the industry. But yeah, he is obviously killing things out here, she said.

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Twitter had a field day with the interview clip, noting how Jordans body language seemingly indicated he remembered her and their high school interactions.

Oooop! He handles this well but I could tell his Aquarius self loved every minute lmao pic.twitter.com/SG3FJ3QgNl  Certified Hoodie Thief  (@KryssyLaReina) February 25, 2023

What one thing about the table of life its always turning. Michael b Jordan humbled her with ease pic.twitter.com/dndJEQTf5x  Mimi The Music Blogger (@mdaixo) February 26, 2023
By Supantha Mukherjee and Martin Coulter

BARCELONA (Reuters) - Microsoft has unveiled previews of two AI-powered services designed to manage telecom networks, drawing on the same capabilities used to manage the tech giant's Azure cloud platform.

Operators can benefit from advanced artificial intelligence that helps to unlock new business opportunities from data on and insights into their operations -- including the rollout of high-speed 5G networks -- the company said in a blog post.

Microsoft first entered the 5G arena after its acquisition of cloud networking companies Affirmed Networks and Metaswitch in 2020.

The company has been keenly focused on AI, investing heavily in OpenAI's ChatGPT bot, which has added to the widespread attention artificial intelligence has been getting in Silicon Valley and beyond. Microsoft said last month it aimed to imbue such AI into all its products, as OpenAI continues to pursue the creation of human-like intelligence for machines.

What were doing is taking our native cloud work and making it specific to this telecom operator network space. I think a really great example of that is all the AI ops work that we are introducing into the system," said Jason Zander, executive vice president of strategic missions and technologies at Microsoft.

"We are bringing that same technology into this space," he added. "Every operator I've shown this to is extremely excited."

Telecom partners such as AT&T Inc , Ericsson, and Nokia Oyj will be able to benefit from Microsoft's new Nexus service, an all-in-one platform allowing operators to manage their networks from the cloud, and two different "AIOps" services.

Monica Zethzon, a vice president at Ericsson, said the developments would allow operators to "transform their core networks while improving customer experiences".

(Reporting by Martin Coulter; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
At 9 years old, Chepito Zamora had never left La Herradura, the small Salvadoran town where he passed his days playing games and longing for his parents, who had migrated to the United States.

One day in 1999, his relatives began to talk to him about taking a trip to reunite with his parents. It was a journey of 3,000 miles that would take two months  the young boy undertook it as an unaccompanied minor. He learned about danger and hardship but also experienced immense solidarity with the other migrants who traveled alongside him, making the trek on foot, by boat and in cars.

The memories of those nine weeks have weighed heavily on me during the 20 years Ive been in this country," said poet Javier Zamora, also known as Chepito or Javiercito, in his acclaimed memoir about his journey. It's called "Solito," which means alone. "Since I started writing this book, the weight has lessened."

Zamora's memoir won the Christopher Isherwood Prize for Autobiographical Prose at the 43rd Los Angeles Times Book Prizes last week.

Zamora said he often remembered how the genesis for "Solito" arose. He was feeling on top of the world  he had obtained his permanent residency (he's now a U.S. citizen) and was at Harvard University. In addition, he had just published "Unaccompanied," a collection of poems about his immigration experience.

El escritor Javier Zamora en entrevista con Noticias Telemundo. (Albinson Linares / Telemundo)

Im tired of my children leaving. My love for you shatters windows with birds. Javiercito, let your shadow return, alone, or with sons, but soon. Call me Mama, not Abuelita, are some of the verses of "Abuelita says Goodbye," a poem in which he describes a family's separation due to migration.

Zamora, however, felt that something was missing, and was experiencing a feeling of oppression. He went to therapy and through those conversations came the impulse to write his memoir.

The trauma of that 9-year-old boy is going to stay with me until I die, and that was something I didnt understand and that I understand much better now. Before writing this book, I wanted that boy to disappear, not to exist. But now that Ive seen him, that Ive talked to him and that Ive remembered everything, I feel better, he said.

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"Solito," which is published in English and Spanish, has drawn wide praise from critics and readers.

A child doesnt understand what immigration is, you dont understand how close to death you are," Zamora said. "Migrant children survive the horror and its necessary to talk about that in the immigration discussion, because we are survivors. Perhaps by describing things as a child it will open their hearts more so that they accept that we are human beings."

An important element of Zamora's narrative is the language. The writer strove to delve into his mind as a child, so it's a child who's the protagonist and narrator.

One day, the therapist said to me: What would happen if you talked to that 9-year-old? So I thought, Why dont you talk like that 9-year-old? And I started writing in that tone and I kind of put myself in my own 9-year-old shoes to see the world, he said, smiling.

Despite the fact that it's been 22 years since Zamora took off on his journey, the migration of children continues as a harsh reality. In fiscal 2022 alone, Customs and Border Protection recorded 152,057 encounters with unaccompanied minors at the southwestern U.S. border, an increase from 2021, when the figure was 146,925.

It has happened to me that migrant children from El Salvador or Mexico, who came to this country at the age of 13 or 9, have read the book and tell me: I have never told my story to another person because I thought it was the only one,'" Zamora said. "Its very ironic, because the book is called alone, but we are not alone. This continues to happen because children and adults do not stop coming to this country, as it is literally happening at this minute."

Below is a condensed version of part of the conversation with Zamora.

One of the successes of "Solito" is that despite narrating a dangerous journey, there's room for humor and joy. What was the challenge of achieving that tone during the writing?

Even if one is surviving a very horrible event, sooner or later, you have to smile. One has to figure it out, as we say in El Salvador, so that you don't disassociate from the moment you're living and you can see the future. If you cant do that, you cant laugh, you cant live, and you die because you freeze. And thats in the book.

Has this book reconciled you with your Central American heritage?

I have one foot here and one foot there, but each time I feel better about it because I will never be 100% from there, nor 100% from here. Before, that made me sad, but it is what it is, thats how things happened and you also have to accept that by being an immigrant we lose a lot but we also gain a lot.

Im the only person in my family who can come and go, so thats a privilege. I can observe things that my family in El Salvador does not understand about life in the United States, and I can tell things about El Salvador to my relatives who live in the United States and have not been able to return. I am like a translator of those realities.

How was the experience of living undocumented in the U.S.?

Another of my traumas is having lived without papers in this country. After I crossed, my parents always asked me not to tell anyone that I wasnt born in the United States. So for years I have been guilty of lying to other Latinos and telling them that I couldnt speak Spanish because I didnt want anyone to know where I came from. I was afraid of "la migra" (immigration authorities) who took many people I knew. But at the age of 17, poetry gave me the courage to say that I am from El Salvador, and that I was an immigrant who didn't have papers.

What use is poetry in a world with as many conflicts as the current one?

Poetry serves to dream of a better world. When writing one can imagine a world without borders, without ecological problems, without gender, which are things that writing deals with. You only need a pen and a page, those are the weapons that any human being has. To change the world, we first have to dream.

Have you seen positive changes in the Latino community?

We are increasingly relevant in all fields, from politics to entertainment, but I think that this is not enough. We have to complicate the conversation. The Latino community has a lot to learn because we are racists too. For example, we still dont include our Afro Latino brothers and sisters, and thats a problem we have to fix. You have to update what it means to be Latino and understand that Latinidad is not a race, it is a mixture of everything.

An earlier version of this story was first published in Noticias Telemundo.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
MILFORD  Consigli Construction Co. Inc., a fourth-generation construction management firm that is behind many local projects, recently announced that it has been selected by the National Park Service to complete historic rehabilitation work to the Lincoln Memorial.

In a press release, company officials said Consigli is tasked with completing historic rehabilitation work to the Lincoln Memorial, including the construction of an immersive museum beneath the memorial. The company will also make accessibility upgrades and improvements.

According to a release from the National Park Service, the contract is worth nearly $69 million.

Anthony and Matthew Consigli represent the fourth generation to run Consigli Construction Co. Inc.

The Lincoln Memorial represents a transformative moment in our nations history, and this work will allow visitors to experience its significance for generations to come, said Matthew Consigli, president of Consigli. Our mid-Atlantic team is ready to undertake this critically important project, and we look forward to working collaboratively with the National Park Service and our partners to deliver this once-in-a-lifetime renovation.

Matthew Consigli and his brother, CEO Anthony Consigli, represent the fourth generation to run Consigli, which was formed in 1905. They have held the top two management positions since 1997.

$54M project:Milford Regional Medical Center cuts ribbon for new building expansion

Consigli officials said the Lincoln Memorial project will add 15,000 square feet of exhibit space that will provide a look at the Lincoln Memorials foundations in a cavernous area known as the undercroft.

New exhibits and multimedia presentations will highlight the construction history of the memorial and discuss how it has become the nations foremost backdrop for civil rights demonstrations.

Consigli said the project will also include new restrooms, a larger bookstore and refurbished elevator. The firm will install new mechanical, electrical, plumbing and security systems.

Overseas mission:Consigli helps fund construction of school, health clinic in Sierra Leone

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Phil Brault, director of operations for Consiglis Washington, D.C., office and mid-Atlantic project executive, said the company is well-equipped to deliver upgrades and improvements to the monument.

We are committed to successfully completing this project through a thoughtful approach that will ensure continued, uninterrupted access to this invaluable monument, Brault said.

Consigli said it is known for its historic preservation work in the mid-Atlantic, previously working with the Smithsonian Institution, Architect of the Capitol and the National Park Service.

Locally, the company has worked extensively with Milford Regional Medical Center on its expansion projects, renovated many banks and, in the early 1980s, repointed the facade of Milfords Sacred Heart Church.

Today, Consigli boasts more than 1,600 employees (including 650 skilled carpenters, laborers and masons) and approximately $2.3 billion in annual volume, according to its website. It has 10 regional offices in the Northeast, from Portland, Maine, to Washington, D.C.

This article originally appeared on The Milford Daily News: Consigli Construction Milford wins contract to rehab Lincoln Memorial
A missing teenager was rescued from possible sex trafficking after she was discovered during a traffic stop, Tennessee officials say.

A state trooper stopped a vehicle for a routine traffic stop on Tuesday, Feb. 21, in Hickman County, according to a news release from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Inside were two adults  a man and a woman  and a 17-year-old girl.

After questioning the adults and the teenager, investigators determined that the girl was the subject of an active missing person search in Knoxville, about 240 miles east of the traffic stop. Officials said the adults are believed to have trafficked the girl in commercial sex.

The girl was taken to a facility in Nashville to receive care and services.

Officials believe she was missing for about two days before she was found, a public information officer told McClatchy News.

The 21-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were arrested and face once count each of trafficking for commercial sex acts, investigators said.

Hickman County is about 60 miles southwest of Nashville.

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Ashik Desai, a former executive at Outcome Health, leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse on Feb. 21, 2023, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune)

A former, young executive at Outcome Health  who is now a star witness in the fraud trial against its founders  was to blame for misdeeds at the company, not its CEO, defense attorneys set out to prove Monday.

Witness and former Outcome executive Ashik Desai faced questions from a defense attorney Monday in the federal criminal trial of former Outcome CEO Rishi Shah, former President Shradha Agarwal and former Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer Brad Purdy. The cross examination came after a week in which Desai testified for the prosecution, detailing his role, and Shah, Agarwal and Purdys alleged parts, in what prosecutors say was a $1 billion fraud scheme.

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Desais testimony in the case, against his former bosses, is expected to be pivotal, with defense attorneys blaming the alleged fraud on Desai and prosecutors saying Desai was merely following his bosses lead. Desai has already pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and struck a deal with the government to testify in exchange for a potentially reduced sentence.

Former Outcome Health CEO Rishi Shah arrives for jury selection in a criminal fraud trial on Jan. 24, 2023. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Outcome was once one of the most talked-about tech companies in Chicago, rising to a valuation of more than $5 billion at one point. The company placed screens and tablets in doctors offices and waiting rooms that ran educational content and pharmaceutical ads. Federal prosecutors, however, allege that Shah, Agarwal and Purdy lied about how many doctors offices had screens and tablets running their content and then used those exaggerated numbers to overcharge drug companies for advertising and inflate revenue figures used to get loans and raise money from investors.

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Shah, Agarwal and Purdy now face charges of mail fraud, wire fraud and bank fraud. All three have pleaded not guilty to the charges, some of which carry sentences of up to 30 years in prison.

Desai, now age 30, was 20 years old when he started working at Outcome, which was then called ContextMedia. He was a rising star at the company, and eventually earned the title executive vice president of business growth and analytics. During his time there, he was honored with awards and accolades and was making $500,000 a year by 2016. He was supposed to go to medical school but instead took a job at Outcome after graduating from Northwestern University, deferring his enrollment in medical school before giving up his spot altogether.

When Desai was on the stand last week, he described how the company would run pharmaceutical companies ads on fewer screens than promised, yet still charge the drug companies the full amounts. Prosecutors showed the jury strings of emails between Desai, Shah, Agarwal and Purdy discussing the issue while they were at the company.

On Monday, a defense attorney for Shah took his turn questioning Desai, aiming to show that Desai committed fraud, while lying to and keeping information from Shah.

If Outcome (leaders) were putting you under the thumb to commit fraud, you could have said, Im done with this. Im going off to medical school, said Shahs attorney John Hueston. Instead, Desai stayed and committed fraud, he said.

Hueston showed Desai emails between him and analysts who worked under him, in which Desai instructed them to falsify information or explicitly approved of the behavior.

Former Outcome Health President Shradha Agarwal arrives for jury selection in a criminal fraud trial on Jan. 24, 2023. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Once you hired those young people in, it was you who corrupted each one of those in your team, Hueston said.

Desai confirmed Monday that he taught them the corrupt practices, but maintained that he was merely extending business practices that had been taught to me.

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I was part of the business practices, and I led the team that was doing it, but it was not just me, Desai said.

Hueston, however, then showed Desai a list of analysts who had left the company, with many of them expressing concern with the way Outcome did business. Under questioning, Desai said that he didnt recall discussing the circumstances of all of their departures with Shah.

I would often talk around the problem with Rishi where I would not confirm their accusations, Desai said. Desai acknowledged on the stand that he lied to Purdy when he was asked if he had fabricated return-on-investment reports, and he lied to Shah when, on one occasion, he said he had been operating with integrity.

Hueston also pressed Desai for details about the plea deal he struck with the government. Under the deal, the government is expected to recommend a reduced amount of time in prison if Desai cooperates and testifies truthfully in the trial, though the sentence will still be up to a judge. Without the deal, Desai may have faced decades in prison.

The only way out for you was to try to make the case against others, Hueston said.

No, it was only to tell the truth, Desai responded.

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Defense attorneys, including those for Agarwal and Purdy, are expected to continue cross-examining Desai this week. The trial began Jan. 30 and is expected to last for as long as 14 weeks.

Outcome and its leaders have faced a number of legal actions in recent years, following a 2017 Wall Street Journal article that exposed the alleged fraud at the company.

Outcome settled a lawsuit by investors in early 2018, after investors alleged the company misled advertisers and investors about the companys performance. At that point, Shah and Agarwal stepped down from daily operations of the company, and, six months later, resigned from their board positions.

In 2019, Outcome, as a company, agreed to pay $70 million to pharmaceutical companies to resolve a federal fraud investigation. As part of the agreement, Outcome admitted that from 2012 to 2017, former executives and employees perpetrated a scheme to defraud its clients  most of which were pharmaceutical companies  by selling advertising inventory that it did not have, the Justice Department said in a news release.

In March 2021, Outcome combined with company PatientPoint to create a new firm called PatientPoint Health Technologies.
A teenager died while visiting the beach over the weekend, the Indialantic Police Department said.

Police issued an alert through social media late Sunday afternoon that a boy, 17, had not been seen since he went into the surf about an hour earlier.

They said he entered the ocean near the Wave Crest boardwalk.

READ: NASA, SpaceX delay launch of Crew-6 mission after technical issue, next attempt Thursday

Police later released an update that rescue crews had located the teen, who did not survive.

First responders who assisted in the search included Indialantic Fire Department, Brevard County Sheriffs Office, Brevard County Lifeguards and Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Police have not released the name of the boy.

READ: Volusia County leaders to address antisemitic messages found at residents homes

Stay with WFTV.com and watch Eyewitness News for updates on this story.

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Left: Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves. Right: Public Service Commissioner Brandon Presley

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves (R) has reason to be worried hell lose reelection to a Democrat this fall andwould you look at that!he now suddenly supports expanding postpartum health insurance coverage for women and birthing people, an issue the Democrats have been criticizing him on.

The state has one of the countrys highest maternal mortality rates, and that was before the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Abortion is now banned in Mississippi, and officials expect an additional 5,000 births a year. The mere fact of more pregnancies means that there will be more pregnancy-related deaths in every state. Since we shamefully dont guarantee healthcare in this country, people without insurance can get Medicaid coverage during their pregnancy, and for 60 days postpartum. States can extend that period for longer, and experts recommend a at least a full year of coverage to help prevent maternal deaths and complications.

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Reeves has long opposed expanding postpartum Medicaidas well as Medicaid coverage for low-income adults who arent pregnantbut he did an about-face on Sunday. Why might that be? Not only do a majority of registered voters surveyed want a new governor, but theres a viable alternative. Reeves is facing a legitimate challenge from Democrat Brandon Presley, a state utility regulator and, yes, a distant cousin of Tupelo-born Elvis Presley. A January poll found Reeves trailing Presley, 43 percent to 47 percent. (Presley is selling amusing Later Tater bumper stickers, which is more family-friendly than the Governors other nickname.)

The state Senate passed SB 2212, which would extend postpartum coverage to 12 months. But House Speaker Philip Gunn (R) told reporters Wednesday that he wouldnt allow the bill to get a vote in the House, because were not for Medicaid expansion in Mississippi.

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House Speaker Philip Gunn on why he wont allow Medicaid or Postpartum Medicaid coverage to reach a House vote.@16WAPTNews pic.twitter.com/06hB75dit3  Scott Simmons (@ScottSimmonsNwz) February 22, 2023

Presley has been rightfully dragging Reeves on Twitter. Its easy to run your mouth about being pro-family when you are evading an issue, he wrote Thursday. @tatereeves doesnt have the guts to push postpartum care for mothers. You would think His Majesty would be able to persuade the Legislature to do the right thing. Unlike @tatereeves, I dont think I know more than doctors.

Its easy to run your mouth about being pro-family when you are evading an issue. @tatereeves doesnt have the guts to push postpartum care for mothers. You would think His Majesty would be able to persuade the Legislature to do the right thing. Unlike @tatereeves, I dont https://t.co/p9wSf4PBFX  Brandon Presley (@BrandonPresley) February 23, 2023

Reeves said on Twitter Sunday that he thinks the legislature should pass the bill and hes sign it into law if they do. Notably, he doesnt make any mention of preventing maternal deaths, just simply that it will be worth it, as more children of God are brought into the world! The subtext is that it will be worth it for Reeves, personally, as he tries to hold on to his seat.



Our new pro-life agenda will not be easy, and it will not be free. But it will be worth it, as more children of God are brought into the world! pic.twitter.com/4V9g8TvO7u  Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) February 26, 2023

Two Democratic leaders, Sen. Derrick Simmons and Rep. Robert Johnson, criticized Reeves in a joint statement Sunday. Saying hell sign this bill if it comes to him is simply a last-ditch effort to save face on an issue that the vast majority of Mississippians support. It is not courageous; it is craven political theater.

Theyre absolutely right. Good luck to you, Mr. Presley.

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WASHINGTON  Ellen Weber could shave off some of the more than $100,000 she owes in student loans if President Joe Biden's debt relief plan was to ever take effect, but Republican officials in her home state of Missouri have worked hard to make sure that won't happen.

Weber, 36, a therapist at a middle school just outside St. Louis, would be eligible for up to $10,000 of loan forgiveness under Biden's proposal, which faces a showdown at the U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday.

Her loan is serviced by the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority, known as MOHELA, which could play an important role in the litigation.

The justices will analyze two different legal challenges to Biden's plan, one of which involves Missouri. And part of the case will hinge on whether the state of Missouri, driven by Republican officials, has standing to challenge Biden's proposal, given MOHELA's role in servicing student loan debt and what it argues it would lose if loans are forgiven.

The state's involvement doesn't sit well with Weber, who believes that Republican state officials, including newly appointed Attorney General Andrew Bailey, haven't considered the needs of state residents like her.

"To hear that the state is fighting against my interests and the interests of other people who would benefit from this is incredibly frustrating," she said in an interview. Weber took out the loan so she could complete a master's degree in social work. The payments she has made have not made a dent in the principal she owes, meaning her total debt is more now than it was a decade ago.

"It's incredibly important we recognize the inherent unfairness of that system," she said.

Ellen Weber with her daughter Lillian Weber-Santaularia. (Courtesy Ellen Weber)

Most experts believe that if the Supreme Court finds that at least one of the challengers has standing (meaning the challenger can demonstrate that it would suffer harm from the proposed law), then the court's 6-3 conservative majority would conclude that the program is unlawful.

Standing is crucial, said Ilya Somin, a professor at George Mason Universitys Antonin Scalia Law School. Referring to the Biden administrations legal arguments in defense of the proposal, he said it seems as if the government has put most of its eggs in the standing basket, as it understands that persuading the court that the program is lawful on any other grounds would be a tougher obstacle to overcome.

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The court is hearing two cases, one brought by six states, including Missouri, and the other brought by two people, Myra Brown and Alexander Taylor, who hold student loan debt.

The challengers argue that the administrations plan  announced by Biden in August and originally scheduled to take effect last fall  violates the Constitution and federal law, partly because it circumvents Congress, which they said has the power to create laws related to student loan forgiveness.

The program, which would allow eligible borrowers to cancel up to $20,000 in debt, has been blocked since the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a temporary hold in October. The administration has since closed the application process. Holders of student loan debt currently do not have to make payments as part of Covid relief measures that will remain in effect until after the Supreme Court issues its ruling.

In any civil case, plaintiffs have to show they have standing by persuading the judge not only that they have been injured by the defendants actions but also that a favorable court ruling would redress that injury.

Of the various challengers, Missouri may have the best argument for standing. The state is harmed by the Biden plan because MOHELA would lose the revenue it earns from servicing the loans if the debts are forgiven, its lawyers argue. Missouri would also be directly harmed because MOHELA has an obligation to make certain payments to the state treasury to help fund capital projects for state universities, the lawyers say. A spokeswoman for Bailey, the attorney general, did not respond to a request for comment.

In court papers the state goes into great detail in describing how MOHELA is not a separate entity from the state. Lawyers argue, for example, that the agency was created by the Legislature and the governor appoints members of its board.

As such, MOHELA is part of Missouri, and the state has standing to challenge actions that impair MOHELAs finances, the states argue in their brief.

Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, representing the Biden administration, said in court papers that MOHELA is a distinct legal entity from the state of Missouri and therefore cannot be considered part of any analysis of whether the state itself has standing.

Missouri may not now maintain that the State and MOHELA are one and the same merely because it believes that MOHELA has standing to challenge a policy the State opposes, Prelogar wrote. She added that there is no evidence that MOHELA will face a significant drop in revenue or that the agency will not be able to meet its payment obligations to the state treasury.

Another brief filed by supporters of the program says MOHELA hasn't made a payment to the state for the capital improvements fund for a decade. MOHELA has, however made payments toward student aid programs, including $6 million this fiscal year, according to the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development.

'Financial services behemoth'

MOHELA has attracted scrutiny for its role in the case from Democratic lawmakers and groups that support Biden's plan. The agency has strayed far beyond its original mandate and is now a "financial services behemoth" handling one out of every 10 dollars of outstanding student loan debt, according to the Student Borrower Protection Center, a nonprofit organization that advocates for student loan relief.

Persis Yu, the center's deputy executive director, said MOHELA would earn money during the loan discharge process if Biden's plan went into effect.

"There are several leaps and assumptions you have to make" to conclude that MOHELA has standing, she said.

MOHELA said in a letter last year that its executives were "not involved" with the decision of then-Attorney General Derek Schmidt to challenge Biden's plan. Scott Giles, MOHELA's executive director, did not respond to a request for comment.

In ruling for the states, the appeals court embraced the standing argument for MOHELA, saying there were reasons to conclude it is an arm of the state. Even if it isnt, the harm to the state caused by a decline in MOHELAs payments into the treasury for capital projects is enough to establish standing, the court concluded. The appeals court did not decide whether the other states  Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska and South Carolina  had standing.

Michael Dorf, a professor at Cornell Law School, said that although he expects the justices to debate standing on Tuesday, such questions rarely delay them if a majority wants to decide the legal merits, especially in an "ideologically fraught case" like student loans.

Major questions doctrine

If the justices conclude that MOHELA has standing, then they could decide the case based on a legal argument made by the challengers that the Supreme Court has recently embraced called the major questions doctrine. Under that theory, federal agencies cannot initiate sweeping new policies that have a significant economic impact without having express authorization from Congress.

The Biden administration says its authority comes from a 2003 law called the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act, known as the HEROES Act. The law states that the government can provide relief to recipients of student loans when there is a "national emergency."

The major questions doctrine fits neatly with the conservative majoritys skepticism about broad assertions of federal power. The court cited it last year in blocking Bidens Covid vaccination or test requirement for larger businesses and curbing the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency to limit carbon emissions from power plants. The challengers say the language in the HEROES Act is not specific enough to authorize a proposal as broad as Biden's plan.

It is because of the conservative blocs stance on such issues that most court watchers believe the student loan program is likely to be invalidated if the justices conclude that MOHELA, or any of the other challengers, have standing.

"It's clearly the most likely outcome," Somin said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
For beginners, it can seem like a good idea (and an exciting prospect) to buy a company that tells a good story to investors, even if it currently lacks a track record of revenue and profit. Unfortunately, these high risk investments often have little probability of ever paying off, and many investors pay a price to learn their lesson. A loss-making company is yet to prove itself with profit, and eventually the inflow of external capital may dry up.

In contrast to all that, many investors prefer to focus on companies like Molina Healthcare (NYSE:MOH), which has not only revenues, but also profits. Now this is not to say that the company presents the best investment opportunity around, but profitability is a key component to success in business.

View our latest analysis for Molina Healthcare

How Fast Is Molina Healthcare Growing?

The market is a voting machine in the short term, but a weighing machine in the long term, so you'd expect share price to follow earnings per share (EPS) outcomes eventually. That means EPS growth is considered a real positive by most successful long-term investors. We can see that in the last three years Molina Healthcare grew its EPS by 4.9% per year. This may not be setting the world alight, but it does show that EPS is on the upwards trend.

One way to double-check a company's growth is to look at how its revenue, and earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) margins are changing. While we note Molina Healthcare achieved similar EBIT margins to last year, revenue grew by a solid 15% to US$31b. That's encouraging news for the company!

In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. For finer detail, click on the image.

While we live in the present moment, there's little doubt that the future matters most in the investment decision process. So why not check this interactive chart depicting future EPS estimates, for Molina Healthcare?

Are Molina Healthcare Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

Since Molina Healthcare has a market capitalisation of US$17b, we wouldn't expect insiders to hold a large percentage of shares. But we do take comfort from the fact that they are investors in the company. We note that their impressive stake in the company is worth US$142m. This comes in at 0.9% of shares in the company, which is a fair amount of a business of this size. This should still be a great incentive for management to maximise shareholder value.

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Is Molina Healthcare Worth Keeping An Eye On?

One positive for Molina Healthcare is that it is growing EPS. That's nice to see. For those who are looking for a little more than this, the high level of insider ownership enhances our enthusiasm for this growth. The combination definitely favoured by investors so consider keeping the company on a watchlist. Still, you should learn about the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Molina Healthcare.

There's always the possibility of doing well buying stocks that are not growing earnings and do not have insiders buying shares. But for those who consider these important metrics, we encourage you to check out companies that do have those features. You can access a free list of them here.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

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.

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The TikTok influencer who went viral last year after talking about soft swinging within her circle of Mormon mom friends was arrested earlier this month on suspicion of domestic violence.

Police in Herriman, Utah, responded around 11 p.m. on Feb. 17 to a report of domestic violence at a home. Officers said they found probable cause to arrest Taylor Frankie Paul, 28, on suspicion of misdemeanor assault, criminal mischief, and commission of domestic violence in the presence of a child, police announced Friday.

Paul was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail and released the following day. After she was booked, police said they received additional video evidence and referred the case to the district attorneys office for review of further charges, including felony assault.

This evidence also suggests that during the incident, Ms. Pauls minor child was injured by an action of Ms. Paul, police said.

Pauls two children feature regularly on her TikTok, where shes amassed more than 4 million followers. She went viral last year when she deviated from the Mormon mom influencer script and opened up about her soft swinging lifestyle with her then-husband, Tate Paul. She also revealed that she stepped out of that agreement she had with her husband, which resulted in her divorce and sparked speculation about whether any other TikTok-famous Utah influencers might have been involved.

Since then, Pauls content has included her reflecting on the drama, opening up about co-parenting, and, more recently, documenting her relationship with Dakota Mortensen. In January, she described the depression and anxiety shed been experiencing following an ectopic pregnancy and also thanked her followers for their support.

Shared my life falling apart, now going to share me putting it back together, she wrote in the caption.

Police declined to share any more details about the allegations or her childs condition. The district attorneys office did not immediately respond to questions about the status of their review of the case. A representative for Paul also did not immediately respond to BuzzFeed News.

Ms. Pauls status as a social media influencer has no bearing or impact on the investigation or outcome of this case, police said in the statement.
A new poll found that a large majority of Americans support Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haleys proposal to require competency tests for politicians over the age of 75.

The Fox News Poll found that 77 percent of Americans are in favor of competency tests for politicians over 75, compared to just 20 percent who oppose it and three percent who are unsure.

Haley, who launched her bid for the White House earlier this month, called for mental competency tests for older politicians in an apparent jab at President Biden and former President Trump, who are 80 and 76 years old, respectively.

Biden said in a new interview that concerns about his age are totally legitimate, but that he is not considering his age when deciding whether to run for reelection. Biden is the oldest president in U.S. history, and would be 82 when sworn into office if he is reelected in 2024.

The poll also found that 43 percent of Republican voters would like to see Trump as the partys nominee, while 28 percent back Florida Governor Ron DeSantis as the nominee, and Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence each received 7 percent.

Only Trump and Haley have officially declared their bids for the GOP primary, but other Republicans, including Pence and DeSantis, are reportedly mulling a run for the nations top office.

More than half of Democratic votes said that they would like to see someone other than Biden as the partys nominee, while 44 percent of all respondents approved of his performance as president.

The poll was conducted Feb. 19 to 22 among 1,006 registered voters, and has a margin of error of 3 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Looking at MotorCycle Holdings Limited's (ASX:MTO ) insider transactions over the last year, we can see that insiders were net buyers. That is, there were more number of shares purchased by insiders than there were sold.

Although we don't think shareholders should simply follow insider transactions, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether.

See our latest analysis for MotorCycle Holdings

The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At MotorCycle Holdings

Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by Co-Founder David Ahmet for AU$75k worth of shares, at about AU$2.50 per share. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, even at a higher price than the current share price (being AU$2.20). 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. It is encouraging to see an insider paid above the current price for shares, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels. David Ahmet was the only individual insider to buy shares in the last twelve months.

David Ahmet purchased 51.48k shares over the year. The average price per share was AU$2.69. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below!

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.

Does MotorCycle Holdings Boast High Insider Ownership?

For a common shareholder, it is worth checking how many shares are held by company insiders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. It appears that MotorCycle Holdings insiders own 29% of the company, worth about AU$47m. While this is a strong but not outstanding level of insider ownership, it's enough to indicate some alignment between management and smaller shareholders.

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What Might The Insider Transactions At MotorCycle Holdings Tell Us?

There haven't been any insider transactions in the last three months -- that doesn't mean much. But insiders have shown more of an appetite for the stock, over the last year. Insiders own shares in MotorCycle Holdings and we see no evidence to suggest they are worried about the future. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing MotorCycle Holdings. Our analysis shows 3 warning signs for MotorCycle Holdings (1 is a bit concerning!) and we strongly recommend you look at these before investing.

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.

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A defense expert in the double murder trial of disgraced South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh testified Monday that he thinks two different shooters killed Murdaughs wife and son.

While the idea has hovered over the trial because two different weapons were used and no evidence has been presented suggesting either victim tried to defend themselves, crime scene expert Tim Palmbach was the first witness to suggest the two-killer theory in testimony.

>> Scroll to the bottom of this webpage for previous trial coverage.

Investigators have said 52-year-old Maggie Murdaugh was shot four or five times with a rifle, while 22-year-old Paul Murdaugh was killed by two shotgun blasts near kennels on the familys sprawling Colleton County property on June 7, 2021.

Also on Monday, one of Murdaughs brothers ended the defenses case saying he promised his nephew hed find his killer and he hasnt yet.

Murdaugh, 54, is charged with murder in the deaths of his wife and son. He faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted

>> CLICK to watch Law & Crimes live stream of the Murdaugh trial

Palmbach testified that the likelihood of two shooters was mostly common sense. All evidence so far has indicted the two people killed were shot close to the same time. They stopped using their cellphones within seconds of each other. Both victims appeared to be surprised, with their hands down and no evidence either of them tried to come to the others aid or was running away.

The second, fatal shotgun blast to Paul Murdaughs head was at close range, meaning blood, skull fragments, other matter and possibly pellets would have been launched back at the shooter, Palmbach said.

That shooter minimally was stunned  probably blood and material in his eyes and maybe have been injured and would have taken some degree of time to recover, Palmbach said.

In addition, carrying two long guns would have been cumbersome and awkward given that the rifle used to kill Maggie Murdaugh could have had a clip carrying 20 to 30 bullets. You cant handle and shoot both of them, he said.

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An important part of Alex Murdaughs defense is to show that investigators failed to thoroughly collect crime scene evidence and to sow doubt about expert testimony for the prosecution stating that authorities did everything possible to find the killer.

The defense also used Mondays testimony to point out that neither weapon used in the shootings has been found, that state agents at the scene didnt look for footprints or fingerprints and that no evidence of blood, brain matter or other material from the killings were found on Alex Murdaugh or his clothes.

The shooter would have been literally covered in all that material, Palmbach said.

There were only 16 minutes between the time the victims stopped using their cellphones and when Alex Murdaugh left his house about 1,100 feet (335 meters) from the crime scene to visit his ailing mother. He called 911 when he found the bodies shortly after returning home.

In cross-examination, prosecutors focused on Palmbachs analysis that the fatal shotgun blast was fired from above Paul Murdaughs head, even though hair, blood and other material was found on the ceiling above in a storage closet the family called the feed room.

Palmbach said the force of gases from the shotgun blast was like a bomb inside the enclosed skull, sending particles out of the same hole the shot created.

Alex Murdaugh cried several times during the graphic testimony. Monitors the courtroom audience can use to see evidence were covered as they have been whenever crime scene and autopsy photos are shown.

Murdaughs brother, John Marvin Murdaugh, was the last defense witness. He testified that state agents told him they had a shirt covered in blood that proved his brother was the killer.

That evidence has not been presented at trial, although Alex Murdaughs lawyers said in pretrial motions that a state agent claimed to find blood. Later tests disproved the assertion and testing destroyed the garment before the defense could see it.

State agents released the crime scene less than 12 hours after the killings, John Marvin Murdaugh said. When he went to look around that morning, he saw blood, brains and a piece of Paul Murdaughs skull. He said he felt compelled to clean.

No mother or father or aunt or uncle should ever have to see or do what I had that day, he said.

He also spoke to his dead nephew that day, telling the court: In my mind and out loud I told Paul I loved him. I promised him Id find out who did this to him.

Have you found out? defense attorney Jim Griffin asked.

I have not, he replied.

Also on Monday, Judge Clifton Newman agreed to let the jury visit the family property and see the crime scene. The visit was scheduled for when prosecutors finish their reply case, likely on Wednesday.

Defense attorney Dick Harpootlian told the judge its important for the jury to travel to the Middaugh property to see how small the feed room is " and where the feed room is compared to Maggies body.

Prosecutors said they didnt want the jury to visit because in the 20 months since the killings, trees planted between the Murdaugh home  where Alex Murdaugh has said he was napping during the murders  and the kennels where the crime occurred have grown taller and thicker.

Newman said he usually allows a visit if either side requests one. The jury, lawyers, Newman, and police and security personnel will be allowed on the trip.

The judge agreed with Harpootlians request for Colleton County deputies to provide additional security on the property, which is under contract to be sold for $3.9 million.

The defense lawyer said over the weekend that several trespassers were found taking selfies outside the feed room where Paul Murdaugh died.

Its the most distasteful thing weve ever seen, Harpootlian said.

PREVIOUS TRIAL COVERAGE:

VIDEO: Murdaugh Trial, Day 24: Prosecutors again ask Alex Murdaugh about financial crimes
(Bloomberg) -- Fox Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdoch testified that Fox Newss popular commentators endorsed Donald Trumps false claim that the 2020 presidential election was rigged, even though Murdoch said he doubted the conspiracy theory right away, according to a filing in a defamation lawsuit.

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Some of our commentators were endorsing it, Murdoch said while being questioned under oath in a $1.6 billion suit by Dominion Voting Systems Inc., which included excerpts of the deposition in a court filing Monday.

About the endorsement of a stolen election? a lawyer asked.

Yes, Murdoch said. They endorsed.

Fox News is accused of helping to promote false claims that the voting-machine maker flipped millions of electronic ballots away from Trump as part of a vast conspiracy involving corrupt Democrats and foreign hackers  a claim still touted by the former president and many of his allies.

Murdoch testified that he seriously doubted Trumps conspiracy theory right away.

It is fair to say you seriously doubted any claim of massive election fraud? Murdoch was asked by a Dominion lawyer.

Oh, yes, Murdoch said.

And you seriously doubted it from the very beginning? he was asked.

Yes, Murdoch replied. I mean, we thought everything was on the up-and-up. I think that was shown when we announced Arizona. He was referring to when Fox declared Joe Biden the winner in the state on election night.

Murdochs testimony was partially disclosed by Denver-based Dominion in its response to a request by Fox in its favor without holding a trial, which is currently set for April in Delaware state court. Dominion has also asked the judge to rule in its favor without a trial.

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The voting-machine company argues the depositions of Murdoch and others support its claim that Fox broadcast the defamatory claims while knowing or recklessly disregarding the truth. An earlier filing by Dominion cited text messages and emails to show that a slew of on-air talent and executives knew the theory was bogus.

Read More: Fox News Pushed 2020 Election Conspiracy Hosts Called Total BS

Even so, Fox News went on to report on the conspiracy theory for weeks after the election, repeatedly hosting its biggest proponents, former Trump campaign lawyer Sidney Powell and longtime Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani, among others.

Extreme View

On Monday, Fox criticized Dominions filing as an attempt to generate headlines rather than put forth valid legal arguments.

Their summary judgment motion took an extreme, unsupported view of defamation law that would prevent journalists from basic reporting and their efforts to publicly smear FOX for covering and commenting on allegations by a sitting President of the United States should be recognized for what it is: a blatant violation of the First Amendment, Fox said.

Fox also argues that the text messages and emails cited in Dominions earlier filing fail to support the case because the seemingly damning comments werent made by anyone whose statements were allegedly defamatory.

Dominion said the case should proceed. Fox asks the Court to hold that it has no legal responsibility whatsoever for broadcasting even the most horrible allegations that it knows to be false, as long as they are newsworthy, the voting-machine maker said.

Viewing Biden Ads

In its filing Monday, Dominion said Murdoch was cozy with Trumps campaign, going so far as to give Trumps son-in-law and senior advisor Jared Kushner access to Fox confidential information about Bidens ads, along with debate strategy.

Even so, Murdoch declined to help Trump after Fox declared that Biden was the winner in Arizona, Dominion said.

My friend Jared Kushner called me saying, This is terrible, and I could hear Trumps voice in the background shouting, Murdoch testified, according to the filing. And I said, Well, the numbers are the numbers.

When Fox called the election for Biden on Nov. 7, 2020, Rupert Murdoch lamented to his son, Fox Corp. co-Chairman Lachlan Murdoch, that things could have been handled differently, according to Dominions filing.

We should and could have gone first but at least being second saves us a Trump explosion! the elder Murdoch said, according to the filing.

Murdoch said in an email to the New York Posts Col Allan a few days after the election that Giuliani was a terrible influence on Donald, and that half of what Trump was saying was bullsh*t and damaging.

Bizarre Phase

Paul Ryan, the former Speaker of the US House who joined Foxs board of directors in 2019, sent Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch a text message on Dec. 6, 2020, about a month after the election, blasting Trumps behavior.

We are entering a truly bizarre phase of this where [Trump] has actually convinced himself of this farce and will do more bizarre things to delegitimize the election, Ryan said, according to Dominions filing.

On Dec. 7, after receiving Ryans text, Rupert wrote to Lachlan: Call me later re Trump and Paul. Trump on Saturday sounded really crazy.

In January 2021, after Fox News was accused of helping trigger the Capitol riot, Rupert Murdoch responded to internal concerns about the networks role, telling a Fox executive: Fox News very busy pivotingWe want to make Trump a non person.

The case is Dominion Voting Systems v. Fox Corp., No. N21C-11-082 EMD CCLD, Delaware Superior Court (Wilmington).

(Updates with Fox giving Trump campaign access to Biden ads.)

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Elon Musk blasted the media as racist after hundreds of newspapers around the country dropped the comic strip Dilbert, whose creator unleashed a rant last week which many saw as racist.

Scott Adams, the creator of the popular comic, said on an episode of his YouTube show that Black people were part of a hate group, after reading a survey conducted by a conservative pollster that asked whether its OK to be white, in which most Black Americans agreed and 26 percent disagreed.

Musk replied to a Twitter thread that was defending Adams, who is white, over the weekend, saying The media is racist.

For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now theyre racist against whites & Asians, Musk, who is white, said on Twitter, which he owns, on Sunday. Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America. Maybe they can try not being racist.

Adamss string of racially-motivated rants included him saying that white people helping Black people has completely failed, urging other white people to stop doing it.

White people trying to help Black America for decades and decades has completely failed. We should just stop doing it cause all we got is called racists, basically. Theres no payoff, Adams said in one episode.

Musks musing against media outlets being racist is not the first time that he has leaned into conservative theories on the site that he purchased for $44 billion last year. After former Speaker Nancy Pelosis (D-Calif.) husband was attacked in their home last year, Musk spread a story from the Santa Monica Observer, an obscure outlet known for publishing false information about the Clintons. The outlet had baselessly suggested that Paul Pelosi and his attacker knew each other  a theory that had become popular in right-wing circles.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Walgreens plans to sell off more than half of its north suburban Deerfield headquarters, according to a message sent to employees Friday afternoon by CEO Roz Brewer. A hybrid strategy launched last year that allows many employees opportunities to work from home has left much of the sprawling, low-slung office campus along I-94 empty, so the company will shift personnel to its remaining buildings on the propertys southern edge.

No changes are planned for employees working in downtown Chicagos Old Post Office. Walgreens moved many digital and IT employees there in early 2020, one of the first tenants to occupy the hulking riverfront structure after its renovation into an upscale office property.

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Especially for those who have worked on campus for years, I want you to know this decision was not taken lightly, wrote Brewer. Im confident that we will grow to love the new right-size campus, and that this change will help facilitate more opportunities for meaningful in-person interactions.

The company will move all Deerfield employees into several buildings on the 100 block of Wilmot Road just north of Lake Cook Road and sell its adjacent buildings on the 200 and 300 blocks of Wilmot, she added.

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We recognize the way we work has changed and with our hybrid model valued by our team members, we have underutilized space on our Deerfield Campus, a Walgreens spokesperson stated in an email to the Tribune. To reimagine the space to fit our current needs and create efficiencies that allow us to invest in the business, we have made the decision to sell several buildings that are part of our support office.

The company remains committed to its Deerfield headquarters, the spokesperson added, and more than 3,500 total employees will work between there and at the Old Post Office.

The potential sale is a sign that yet more pain is on the way for suburban office markets. Most were already suffering high vacancy rates after companies, including McDonalds and Motorola Solutions, shifted their headquarters in the past decade from 1970s-era suburban campuses to sleek new offices downtown. The pandemic then emptied out more buildings as people found they could work comfortably from home, and even with the number of employees coming into the office at least several days per week inching up, many companies realize they need far less space.

There is a lack of demand, particularly with regard to larger users, which are getting more efficient in how they use their office spaces, said Jonathon Connor, senior vice president with Colliers International. This could be a vacancy that sits for a while.

Stagnant leasing throughout much of 2022 left vacant nearly one-quarter of the north suburbs 26 million square feet of office space, according to Colliers, up from about 20% when the pandemic hit in early 2020.

This is not the first time Walgreens shrank its suburban home. Last summer, 575,000 square feet of now-empty buildings once occupied by the retail chain just to the east at 1411-1435 Lake Cook Road were put up for sale. Walgreens purchased the 37-acre site in 2004.

Walgreens is far from the only company to radically restructure its suburban office space. In 2022, health care giant Baxter International Inc. decided to sell its 101-acre Deerfield campus and search for new digs elsewhere in the Chicago area.

A possible future for such properties was also shown last year, when Nevada-based Dermody Properties completed its acquisition of Allstate Corp.s massive campus in Glenview. The new owner announced in October it will replace the insurance companys office buildings with a 10-building logistics park totaling more than 3.2 million square feet and capable of delivering millions of packages bought online by north suburban residents.

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This redevelopment project stands at the intersection of two significant and durable trends  work from home and e-commerce, said Dermody Properties President Douglas Kiersey last October. The conversion of the office campus  with buildings dating back to the 1960s and 70s  into modern logistics buildings offers many benefits to the community.
People walk past a COVID testing site on May 17, 2022, in New York City. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Since the first cases of a mysterious new respiratory illness were recorded in China in late 2019, scientists have come to know the pathogen named SARS-CoV-2 (along with its Greek-letter variants) with an uncommon intimacy. With astonishing speed, they decoded its genetic architecture and, using that knowledge, created treatments and vaccines that have reduced the pandemic to a background concern in many parts of the world.

Yet more than three years after the advent of the coronavirus, the most fundamental question remains: Just where did it come from?

At first, investigators pointed to Chinas trade in exotic animals. A wildlife market in Wuhan, a city in Hubei province, emerged as the potential site of the original transmission. And a little-known creature, the pangolin, was widely suspected as having served as the unwitting vehicle of zoonosis, or animal-to-human transfer of the coronavirus.

People wearing face masks buy lotus roots at a wet market, following an outbreak of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, on Feb. 8, 2021. (Aly Song/Reuters)

But a faction of investigators has insistently maintained that the virus spilled out from a laboratory such as the Wuhan Institute of Virology, perhaps as the result of an accident. While their argument was at first dismissed as conspiratorial and xenophobic, it gained currency throughout 2021 and 2022, especially as genetic data seemed to point  circumstantially, but persuasively  to evidence of human engineering.

Today, the scientific community generally remains behind the zoonotic hypothesis: that is, that the virus jumped from animals to humans at the wildlife market, or at some other point of contact between species.

Yet evidence for the lab leak narrative is only building.

On Saturday, the Wall Street Journal revealed that the federal Department of Energy  whose ranks include highly trained biologists  has revised its estimate to reflect growing (if still tenuous) confidence that the virus emerged from a Chinese laboratory. Other agencies disagree with that assessment; the development seemed only to underscore how contentious the question of how the pandemic began remains.

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The Department of Energy was one of several agencies asked by the Biden administration to assess whether the coronavirus originated at a wildlife market or as a result of a laboratory accident.

John Kirby, coordinator for strategic communications at the National Security Council, answers questions during the daily press briefing at the White House on Monday. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

During a White House briefing on Monday, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that the Biden administration was determined to discover how the pandemic began. We really do want to know what happened here, Kirby told reporters.

The news added to a growing frustration with Beijing, which has allowed little legitimate inquiry into how the pandemic began.

Chinas government may accuse others of politicizing #COVID19, diplomat and Asia expert Jamie Metzl wrote on Twitter, but by destroying samples, hiding evidence, gagging Chinese scientists and undermining international efforts, Beijing has made a full origins investigation impossible and put the world at risk."

Why did the Department of Energy change its mind?

Vendors sell fish in an open market on Dec. 2, 2020, in Wuhan. (Getty Images)

It is not entirely clear what led the Energy Department to revise its estimate; the update delivered recently to members of the Biden administration and congressional leaders says agency investigators now have low confidence in a lab leak origin for COVID-19.

For intelligence analysts, a low-confidence assessment is one based on highly incomplete evidence. Still, the shift indicates that evidence could be shifting in favor of a lab leak.

An intelligence official told the Journal that the Department of Energy revisions were based on what Saturdays report described as new intelligence, further study of academic literature and consultation with experts outside government.

Four other agencies have expressed low confidence in a zoonotic origin, meaning that they believe the coronavirus came from a wildlife market but lack the evidence to make a more definitive declaration. According to the New York Times, those agencies reviewed the new evidence provided by the Department of Energy but chose to stay with their original assessment.

In other words, disagreement remains.

There is not a consensus right now in the U.S. government about exactly how COVID started, Kirby acknowledged on Monday.

What other developments have there been?

Peter Daszak of the World Health Organization team salutes toward Chinese staffers as he prepares to leave for the airport at the end of a WHO mission in Wuhan on Feb. 10, 2021. (Ng Han Guan/AP)

Last month, the inspector general of the federal Health and Human Services Department faulted the National Institutes of Health for not conducting sufficient oversight of subgrants to the Wuhan Institute of Virology that had been made over the course of several years through an American intermediary, the EcoHealth Alliance.

Proponents of the lab leak hypothesis believe that understanding the role of EcoHealth Alliance is critical to unraveling the mystery of the pandemics origins. EcoHealth chief executive Peter Daszak has maintained that his organization is being roped into a conspiracy theory, one predicated on an ignorance of how, and where, virologists work.

What does China say?

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning gestures during a news conference in Beijing on Feb. 3. (Thomas Peter/Reuters)

Chinas Foreign Ministry forcefully rejected the Journals reporting. The origins-tracing of SARS-CoV-2 is about science and should not be politicized. China has always supported and participated in global science-based origins-tracing, spokeswoman Mao Ning said during a Monday press briefing.

Mao pointed to a World Health Organization (WHO) report that endorsed the zoonotic hypothesis.

Certain parties should stop rehashing the lab leak narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing, she said.

Did WHO really rule out a lab leak?

An aerial view shows the P4 laboratory (center) at the Wuhan Institute of Virology on April 17, 2020. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)

Not at all. In early 2021, a group of researchers conducted an investigatory visit to Wuhan, in what remains the only instance of Western observers being allowed to conduct field work regarding coronavirus origins.

The ensuing report did conclude that the virus most likely originated in a wildlife market. It rated the possibility of a lab leak as extremely unlikely.

Critics said WHO did not press China with sufficient intensity, charging that including lab-leak skeptics like Daszak of EcoHealth Alliance on the WHO team that traveled to Wuhan inherently skewed the investigation in favor of the wildlife market hypothesis. Eventually, even the head of WHO, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, cautioned against ruling out the possibility of a laboratory accident, thus seemingly contradicting the report his own agency had produced.

Earlier this month, WHO disputed reports that it was unable to further investigate the pandemics origins because of Beijings intransigence. The episode only underscored how little clarity investigators have managed to achieve  and how Beijings stonewalling continues to frustrate attempts at a legitimate investigation.

What can Washington do?

President Biden speaks to members of the media before boarding Marine One on Feb. 24. (Will Oliver/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

President Biden has vowed to compete with China on the world stage but to avoid outright conflict. The persistent questions over how the coronavirus began have frustrated that nuanced approach, forcing the president to confront an issue that will be difficult for him, or any Western leader, to resolve.

In May 2021, Biden asked the intelligence community to assess how the coronavirus began, in a signal that his administration was willing to entertain what had been, during Donald Trumps presidency, a matter of conspiratorial musing. (The Department of Energy revisions stemmed from the 2021 directive.)

At the same time, Biden has been careful not to confront Chinese leader Xi Jinping on the matter. With China potentially preparing to help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine and, in the longer term, possibly preparing for an invasion of Taiwan, Biden has to carefully choose where to press Xi, and how forcefully to do so.

The recent brouhaha over a Chinese surveillance balloon that flew over the United States before being shot down by the U.S. military only deepened the tensions between Washington and Beijing.

That leaves the Republican-led House of Representatives as the most likely source of an aggressive investigation into the lab leak hypothesis. GOP leaders vowed to undertake an extensive inquest into how the pandemic began after winning back the lower chamber in last falls congressional midterms.

But those efforts have been hampered by far-right figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., who have proffered baseless conspiracy theories about the pandemic, including outlandish accusations that the coronavirus was a bioweapon manufactured with the complicity of American officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci, the renowned immunologist and former White House adviser.

More-mainstream Republicans are trying to hold China to account without embracing conspiracies and demonstrable falsehoods.

Evidence has been piling up for over a year in favor of the lab leak hypothesis. I am glad some of our agencies are starting to listen to common sense and change their assessment, Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., told the New York Times.

This article has been updated to more accurately reflect the research conducted by EcoHealth Alliance in China.
Kaseya is the mystery tech company receiving as much as $4.6 million in subsidies from Miami-Dade County in exchange for going on a massive hiring spree  an arrangement that was announced last week in what is considered one of the largest efforts to help ensure the tech boom here benefits locals.

Miami-based Kaseya, which makes software that helps businesses manage information technology systems and security, will add 3,400 jobs locally, the company said on Monday.

The tax-funded subsidy requires the company follow through on its plans and meet certain conditions. The incentives were approved by Miami-Dade commissioners last week, but the name of the company was not disclosed then.

All the pledged jobs are new and full time, said Xavier Gonzalez, executive vice president for marketing communications, in an interview with the Herald. Hiring will take place over a period of three years.

All new positions will be based in the companys Miami offices, said the executive, and working remotely from out of state will not be considered. Were an in-office company, he said.

Kaseyas plans come amid massive layoffs at large tech companies and a global reckoning facing the technology sector.

Their growth during such a unique inflection point in the tech industry is a clear reflection of the economic health, favorable business climate and robust talent base Miami-Dade County offers to employers at any stage of their journey, said Roderick T. Miller, president and chief executive of the Miami-Dade Beacon Council, which worked with Kaseya.

READ MORE: With plans to hire 3,400, Miami tech firm secures $4.6 million county subsidy pledge

Kaseya has three offices in Brickell and has leased additional office space downtown in the Wells Fargo financial center. Were finishing the buildout, said Gonzalez.

The company had already been on a large growth spurt. Founded in 2000 in Silicon Valley, it relocated to Miami around 2015, said Gonzalez. At that time, it had a total of about 50 employees. Today it has 4,500 employees worldwide, and clients around the globe. The companys portfolio is significant enough that it was the subject of a discussion between President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladmir Putin in 2021 after a ransomware attack targeted the firms software.

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The Herald reported last week that county documents that went with the subsidy application show that the companys Miami headquarters would grow from 800 employees to over 4,000. And that average annual compensation for the jobs is $107,000.

The $4.6 million in promised incentives would come out to less than $1,500 per position. The money would be provided annually if Kaseya meets the terms.

Kaseya has already started hiring, said Gonzalez. The company has continued to add employees since submitting the application to the county in December.

And not only engineers.

READ MORE: You can commit crimes all day long: Kaseya CEO says cryptocurrency fuels ransomware hacks

Were hiring tech talent, said Gonzalez. But were also hiring across what you would expect in a corporate headquarters including finance, operations, and marketing.

We are really adding a significant amount across the board  technical talent and support of that technical talent, he noted.

While the company is open to people nationwide looking to relocate, to get hired, they have to be based in Miami, Gonzalez said.

Kaseya has cultivated relationships with local institutes of higher education, in particular Florida International University and Miami Dade College, often hiring from there.

The company has been working with FIU in curriculum development around remote IT security and management. It has around 70 students in one course and expects that number to grow.

Weve had a lot of success working with the local institutions of higher education, Gonzalez said.

The county will provide $4.25 million from the Relocation and Expansion Incentives Program, known as REIP, which provides financial incentives to growing and new-to-market ventures in Miami-Dade County.

READ MORE: Ransomware attack against Florida-based company a big focus of Biden call with Putin

Kaseya will receive $313,150 from the Targeted Incentives Job Fund, a program that offers cash incentives to existing businesses in select industries that create at least 10 above-average paying jobs.

The company could also obtain as much as $1,250 for every job created if it employs graduates from local colleges or people previously unemployed.

The performance-based incentives will be awarded to the company over a five-year period if it meets its job creation goals.
Caspar Benson - Getty Images

A new space race is warming up between U.S. and China as each nation clambers to return to the Moon.

A new NASA solicitation reinforces its interest in mining the Moon following previous comments from NASA Administrator Bill Nelson about the U.S.s need to get there first.

NASA hopes to recruit university researchers to investigate ways to use metals mined from the moon's surface layer.

Nothing puts boots on the Moon quite like a good, old-fashioned space race. After all, it was the decade-long process of technological one-upmanship between the U.S. and the Soviet Union that made the Apollo program possible. Now, with China busily planning a number of new missions to the lunar surface , NASA is putting its own plans in place to make sure it get first dibs on all the precious moon metals that are ready to be mined.

According to Bloomberg , NASA is searching for researchers to discover ways to use moon metals gathered from the lunar surface for 3D printing and other applications. This follows various announcements in 2022 of university partnerships and research programs aimed at designing and leveraging a metal-making pipeline on the moon.

There are certain metals we might be able to extract in different parts of the moon and we might need to start manufacturing with them if we are going to build things on the moon, said NASAs Matt Deans told Bloomberg. The solicitation does spell out we want to construct things eventually.

This doubling down on beating China back to the Moon comes only a couple of months after NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, following the completion of a successful Artemis 1 mission that flew around the Moon and back, said , we better watch out that [China doesnt] get to a place on the Moon under the guise of scientific research. He then followed that warning with a description of what could happen next, using Chinas aggressive territorial strategy in the South China Sea as an example.

However, one big difference between now and the Space Race of the 1960s is that NASA isnt going it alone. Private companies are also investigating ways to set up shop on the Moon. The most prominent of these companies, the Jeff Bezos-funded Blue Origin, revealed a solar cell created with imitation moon dirt (known as regolith) earlier this month .

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These efforts to start leveraging metals and other materials on the moon to power future lunar operations is crucial, as these technologies could make any long-term settlement more affordable both to construct and maintain. In fact, Blue Origin says that its solar cells can scale indefinitely, eliminating power as a constraint anywhere on the Moon.

A full-blow metals extraction and refinery system is still a ways down the line, as the future air-breathing astronauts who would run it would probably need things like water and oxygenthings that will require extensive lunar infrastructure to extract.

With U.S.-China relations at an all-time low and with China (and also Russia, obviously) disinterested in signing on to the Artemis Accords a Moon-governing agreement grounded in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty any chance of space-based cooperation between the two superpowers seems extremely unlikely, if not impossible.

In other words, whats old is new again.

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By Joey Roulette

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -NASA announced on Monday it has picked a longtime solar scientist who heads its heliophysics division to become the U.S. space agency's science chief.

Nicola Fox, former top scientist on the Parker Solar Probe mission studying the sun, was named as NASA's associate administrator for the agency's Science Mission Directorate.

A memo to agency employees from NASA chief Bill Nelson, obtained by Reuters, first announced Fox's appointment. He lauded Fox's past work on missions to better understand the sun and how solar wind affects satellites and planets.

"She has been instrumental in making this complex area accessible to the public," Nelson said. "Her work already spans so many areas of importance to the agency."

NASA later announced Fox's appointment publicly on Monday, saying her new role was effective immediately.

Fox will lead NASA's science directorate, a unit with an annual budget of roughly $7 billion that oversees some of the agency's best-known programs from the robotic hunts for past life on Mars to exploring distant galaxies with the James Webb Space Telescope.

She will also oversee a NASA study group formed in 2022 to help the U.S. military detect and characterize UFOs, or so-called Unidentified Aerial Phenomena - mysterious objects that the White House and Pentagon officials see as threats to U.S. airspace.

Fox succeeds Thomas Zurbuchen, a Swiss-American astrophysicist who had led the directorate since 2016 before his retirement in December. Sandra Connelly, formerly Zurbuchen's deputy, had led the directorate in an acting capacity.

(Reporting by Joey Roulette; Editing by Will Dunham and David Gregorio)
A man is dead and police are investigating the shooting as self-defense after what appeared to be a road-rage incident.

Nashville police said Alden R. Jones, 71, was shot to death Sunday afternoon on State Route 45 at Rio Vista Drive in Madison.

According to police, Jones was driving aggressively through Hermitage and Old Hickory speeding and cutting drivers off. When he got to a stop light at the corner of State Route 45 and Rio Vista Drive, he got out of his car, walked to the car behind him and began pounding on the driver's window with pistol in hand, police said.

A Hermitage man, in a car two behind Jones', began yelling at him to stop and got out of his vehicle, police said. Jones then began to approach the man's vehicle.

The man "yelled for Jones to stop, not come any closer, and warned him that he also had a gun," police said. Jones continued forward "and was at a very close distance" when the man shot him, according to police.

The man told police he fired in defense of himself and his wife who was in the vehicle, the police said. The couple remained at the scene, cooperated with police and witnesses corroborated the details of the event, according to police.

The Tennessean is not naming the man who shot Jones as he has not been charged in connection with the case.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Self-defense claim under investigation, man killed in road incident
On the outside, 16-year-old Emma Benoit had it all.

She was a high school varsity cheerleader in her Prairieville, Louisiana, hometown. She was popular. She had a happy home life.

On the inside, she was keeping her depression and anxiety to herself. She told herself that mental illness was a taboo subject and not talked about.

I had this sense that sharing dark feelings came with a stigma, so I kept quiet, Benoit, now 22, said in a news release. I felt isolated and alone and thought there was something wrong with me.

Emma Benoit

She attempted suicide the summer before her senior year of high school in 2017. It resulted in a spinal cord injury that left her paralyzed. She intentionally does not talk about how she tried to end her life.

Today Benoit is a national advocate for youth suicide prevention. She shares her story by speaking to students and families across the country. Benoit is featured on national television programs about suicide and she has a documentary, "My Ascension," released in 2021.

Benoit will visit Moorings Presbyterian Church, 91 Harbour Drive, Naples, when the documentary airs at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, March 2. There will be a question-and-answer session with her immediately following the screening.

Tickets are $15 per person and will support access to services at the David Lawrence Mental Health Center in Collier County.

To register, visit DLCenters.org/Events or contact DLC at 239-354-1419 or donorcare@DLCenters.org.

Benoit first spoke in Naples last year during the David Lawrence centers Sound Minds luncheon.

Pandemic was detrimental especially to young people's mental health

There are 1.2 million suicide attempts every year in the U.S. The public health crisis claims the lives of 20 young people every day.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an alarming impact on young people; a report published this month found youth suicide increased significantly during the pandemic among males, particularly among non-Hispanic Black youth, according to researchers at the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention similarly released data this month that 57% of teen girls in the U.S felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021, double that of boys. The figure represents a nearly 60% increase and the highest level reported over the past decade.

She found her mission in life

After her suicide attempt, Benoit said she found faith and purpose that lead her to use her own painful experience to help others.

A lack of community and conversation about mental health factored into what caused me to attempt suicide, she said in the news release.

Plan hit a snag:Collier planning board gives thumbs down to mental health complex after neighbors pushback

Now I am on a mission to share my story to help open up conversations about mental health," she said. "I want people to understand they are not alone and there is help, and that you can overcome your mental health challenges and thrive.

She started a website, liferejuvenated.org, and a blog to share her story and recovery journey to help other teens who are struggling. In early 2018, she began working on her documentary film that chronicles her recovery journey and advocacy work, while addressing the youth suicide epidemic.

She graduated from high school in 2018.

Benoit serves as an Ambassador for LivingWorks, the worlds leader in suicide prevention training. She has been featured on numerous news programs and podcasts including the Jada Pinkett Smiths hit show Red Table Talk and the Dr. Phil Show.

She also has reached thousands through virtual conferences and events that include the California Department of Education Youth Summit, National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health Conference, LSU School of Social Work Conference.

Benoit has taken part in the Arkansas Youth Mental Health Conference, Hope Rising Suicide Prevention Summit and the Hope Squad National Conference.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Suicide attempt survivor who found her calling in life comes to Naples
Days before his trial on Capitol riot-related charges was to begin, Johnny Harris changed legal strategies and pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge.

That removed the Shelby residents need to prepare a defense, whatever that defense might have been.

Harris, like hundreds of other rioters, is charged with disorderly and disruptive behavior on the grounds of the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. What sets him apart, however, is that the documentary, January 6th, clearly places him at the scene of his crime.

While being interviewed inside the Rotunda on the day of the riot by a French film crew, Harris summed up the perceived grievances of hundreds of other rioters alongside.

Excuse me, what are you trying to do? the reporter asked him in one memorable exchange.

Harris, appearing startled at first, turns to the reporter and photographer:

Kick ass and take names later! he says, before quickly walking back the threat of violence.

Were not here to hurt anybody ... Were just here to let you know that there are a million of us or more out there who will come through this building if necessary.

Harris is one of at least 26 N.C. residents charged in the violent siege of the Capitol. Thousands of supporters of former President Donald Trump, fueled by the Republicans baseless claims of a stolen election, battled police, broke out windows and doors, and left millions of dollars in damages to perhaps the countrys landmark government building.

Five deaths have been linked to the violence, and some 140 police officers were injured. Almost 1,000 arrests have been made.

Harris pleaded guilty Feb. 22. In Monday emails to The Charlotte Observer, Harris attorneys, Sam Randall of Charlotte and Kira West of Washington, declined comment.

According to his plea documents, Harris, dressed in a Trump bandana and matching red, white and blue clothing, used his cell phone and GoPro camera to film his time inside and outside the Capitol on Jan. 6.

He also carried a megaphone and used it inside the building to start a call-and-response chant with other rioters: Whose house? Our house.

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When asked by a reporter if he was inside the Capitol to disrupt the congressional vote to certify President Joe Bidens electoral win over Trump, Harris first said no, then quickly confessed.

Oh yeah, were trying to upset their decision. Were trying to make them make the right decision, he said, according to a government filing in his case.

Harris also said he wasnt leaving until Trump was officially seated for a second term.

Donald Trump won this election. By far. Were not gonna let it be stolen from us, he said. Donald Trump is our president and he will be re-elected, and the rest of them will go to jail.

Good to his word, Harris stayed put as long as he could. When police reinforcements flowed into the Rotunda around 3 p.m. that day, the Cleveland County resident repeatedly approached the line of officers but was rebuffed and directed toward the exits, court filings show.

At one point, Harris dropped his phone, reached to get it, then pushed an officer, documents claim. He later told another cop that he wanted to stay in the building long enough to retrieve his megaphone and his American flag. He eventually left the Capitol around 3:30 p.m., one of the last rioters to do so, the government says.

The FBI arrested Harris in North Carolina two months later. Shelby is 45 miles west of Charlotte.

He faces eight to 14 months in prison  on the higher end of the punishment scale for a misdemeanor charge in the sprawling Jan. 6 prosecution. As part of the plea agreement, the government dropped three other misdemeanor charges. Harris joins some 375 Capitol defendants who have pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges.

U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss of Washington, D.C., an Obama appointee, will make the final decision on Harris punishment June 2.
FONTANA, Calif. (AP)  John Hunter Nemechek held off Sam Mayer and earned his third career Xfinity Series victory in a rare Sunday night race on the final NASCAR weekend at Auto Club Speedway's famed two-mile track.

Nemechek reclaimed the lead shortly after a restart with 12 laps to go and held on in his Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota despite overheating on the final lap. The son of veteran racer Joe Nemechek won on the Xfinity circuit for the first time since Texas in late 2021.

Nemechek is off to an outstanding start in his new full-time Xfinity seat for JGR, finishing second last week at Daytona.

I feel like this is one of the best opportunities that Ive had in my lifetime, Nemechek said. Everything is going according to plan. ... Im proud to be a part of this Joe Gibbs organization. Second and then first. Lets keep it going.

Nemechek led 49 of the 150 laps and finished strong in a Fontana race delayed for more than 24 hours after persistent rains and snow flurries during an unusual Southern California storm forced it out of its regular Saturday start time. The race began about 45 minutes after Kyle Busch claimed his fifth career victory at Fontana in the Cup Series event.

Because of the Xfinity delay, Nemechek has the technical distinction of being the final driver to win a stock car race on the two-mile track at Auto Club Speedway. NASCAR plans to tear up the beloved asphalt east of Los Angeles soon, with vague plans to build a short-track course on the site in the next two years  although NASCAR reportedly has also sold most of the land around the facility.

Its cool to be the final winner here, Nemechek said. It means a lot. Maybe when they tear this place up, theyll send me a piece of asphalt, just for the memory."

Justin Allgaier came in third behind Mayer, who flipped over onto his roof last week at Daytona after attempting a bold move to win in overtime with a pass on Allgaier. The 19-year-old Mayer finished 0.761 seconds behind Nemechek in his JR Motorsports Chevrolet at Fontana.

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We threw the kitchen sink at it, and we ended up second, Mayer said. All things considered, Im really happy and proud.

Nemechek couldn't celebrate with a burnout, both because of the water spewing from his overheating engine and because the Xfinity teams must use the same engines and cars at Las Vegas next weekend.

We had trash on the grill there for a while, Nemechek said. Hopefully it didnt hurt the motor too bad. But the car is in one piece, and its fast.

Nemechek will need all the car he can get next week  and all the truck, too. He'll race in both the Xfinity Series and the Truck Series against Busch, his boss and mentor for the previous two Truck seasons.

Whats cool is he drove for my dad when he was about my age back in the day, Nemechek said. I dont know if theres a rivalry there or not, but I definitely want to go and try to win both races next week, and I know hes in both races. I think it comes down to team, truck and execution.

Cole Custer won the first two stages in his Stewart-Haas Racing Ford while bidding for two straight wins at Fontana and three in his career on his hometown track, but he went into the wall with a right front flat early in the final stage. Custer, who finished 27th, grew up in Ladera Ranch, an upscale planned community in Orange County roughly 50 miles south of Auto Club Speedway.

___

AP auto racing: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Oscar Isaac and Rachel Brosnahan lit up the stage on Thursday night during the opening of The Sign in Sidney Brusteins Window at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.

Set in the 1960s bohemia of Greenwich Village, the play follows a couple struggling to find their authentic selves during a period of radical social change. Isaac said he was drawn to the storys examination of identities and how they can fluctuate throughout the course of a marriage or a career.

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The real secret is there is no authentic self, Isaac told Variety before the show. Its really hard to get to that place because you have to basically die. The ego death has to happen. And then you have to just allow yourself to feel.

He continued, All the selves that [Sidney] had defined, including his own, are disintegrating right in front of him. Theres nothing to hold onto, including his sign and the things that he feels like hes supposed to be doing.

The audience at opening night included Bradley Cooper, Mike Birbiglia and Keith Sutherland. One of the most enthusiastic audience members was Isaacs Moon Knight co-star Ethan Hawke, who was seen laughing and cheering throughout the show.

Ill tell you one thing: Oscar is one of the best actors out there, Hawke told Variety during intermission. Its not easy getting up on that stage.

The production marks the first major New York revival of Lorraine Hansberrys (A Raisin in the Sun) second and final play, which ran on Broadway in the fall of 1964. Nearly six decades later, many of the questions and conversations contained in Hansberrys work remain utterly relevant.

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The play deals with so many things were talking about today with identity and politics; the function of art and the artist; white apathy; a desire for great change and a criticism of talk that isnt followed up by action, Brosnahan said. In that way, Lorraine feels so prophetic and her voice feels so needed at this moment.

Director Anne Kauffman was initially determined to open Hansberrys incredibly American play before the 2020 election because of its unavoidable message about taking a stance against political injustice. When live events were indefinitely shut down at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the fate of the revival became uncertain. As theaters started opening back up, the crew questioned whether audiences would show up for a hefty drama about societal reform.

It was easier to do a musical or do something that was entertaining and dramas just werent doing well, said Joi Gresham, director of the Lorraine Hansberry Literary Trust. So we were real nervous about bringing Lorraine Hansberry back to the stage at that moment. Lorraine asks you to think  she challenges you  and this is a play about action and commitment.

As it turned out, Kauffman said she realized that there wasnt a better moment for Hansberrys work to return to the stage.

With COVID, George Floyd and the reemergence of vital activism, its the perfect time to be doing this play, Kauffman said. So that the white liberals, which is what the whole play is really about, well get up off our butts and do something.

If Hansberry was around to see the social movements taking place in America today, Gresham believes that shed be at the forefront pushing for new progress.

That was just her nature: to be engaged and be a part of it, Gresham said. Shed be really proud and linking arms with LBGTQ movements and marches. She would be pushing people to really think about what matters and what they want to be a part of. I think this play is an inspiration for that.

The Sign in Sidney Brusteins Window will run at the BAM Harvey Theater through Mar. 24.

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The Jiro-style ramen dish includes a thick broth with slices of port, noodles, a hard-boiled egg, cabbage and spinach at the recently opened Chicago Ramen Annex in Schaumburg. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)

Im happily on record as a heavy ramen skeptic.

Granted, its a bit more nuanced than that, because I do love a good bowl of ultra-thick tonkotsu ramen. You know, the kind of broth that requires simmering heaps of animal bones in huge pots for untold hours until the liquid becomes so viscous youll need to take a nap after slurping through half a bowl.

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Its not exactly the choicest of entrees when its 90 degrees out on a hot July day. But lets just say it is February in Chicagoland, and bone-chilling weather surrounds us. In theory, whats the most fortifying bowl of ramen you could try?

Thats easy. Make your way to a strip mall in suburban Schaumburg, where youll find one of the heartiest styles of them all  Jiro-style ramen served at the recently opened Chicago Ramen Annex in Schaumburg.

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The main dining area inside of Chicago Ramen Annex in Schaumburg is shown Feb. 3, 2023. It's the latest project from chef Kenta Ikehata. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)

This is the latest project from chef Kenta Ikehata. Born in Japan, he first achieved stateside success with the launch of the Tsujita chain of ramen joints around Los Angeles. But over the past three years, hes gone all in on Chicagos northwest suburbs, first with Chicago Ramen, which I immediately crowned as one of the best ramen shops in the area in 2020. (Technically, it tied for first with Menya Goku, but you get the idea.)

[ The 12 best bowls of ramen in Chicago  including an unbreakable tie for first place ]

After a slight detour with the opening of Chicago Sushi, last year he opened Chicago Ramen Lab, a takeout-focused project in Rolling Meadows. Now we have the Chicago Ramen Annex, which specializes in Jiro-style ramen, an absurdly meaty and intense style that first captured Tokyos attention in 1968.

Ill be perfectly clear: Jiro-style ramen is not for everyone. Im not sure Ill even be able to look at it in July. But right now, when the weather dips below freezing and the wind howls, there is no better elixir to battle the winter.

Jiro-style ramen is neither complex nor subtle. It is thick, meaty and garlicky, with an incisive soy sauce backbone. Flecks of pork fat litter the top, adding even more heft to a bowl that wasnt lacking any. The noodles are wavy and substantial, latching onto the broth as you remove them from the bowl. Huge chunks of tender, fatty pork bob in the liquid. Though they look imposing, poke them with your chopsticks and they tenderly fall apart.

All that heaviness is countered somewhat by the hearty handful of cabbage and bean sprouts piled on top, which adds a crunchy relief from the onslaught of pork. As is common in ramen shops, you could add even more toppings. But with a dish already so hefty, I personally cant recommend adding more meat or even an egg. I did love the jiro negi, which adds a whole tangle of stir-fried green onions that lends a biting sharpness to each sip.

Instead of toppings, personalize your bowl with the condiments available for free. In fact, a sign on the table declares customers must use garlic and onikasu. Though no one will reprimand you for ignoring this warning, it is fascinating to tinker with each to personalize your bowl. The former is really nothing more than a whole container of chopped raw garlic, which adds a fierce funkiness. The latter is a moderately spicy dried red chile mix that Ikehata first used at Tsujita, and it creates a warming glow that lingers beautifully on the tongue. Just be judicious.

Kenta Ikehata, chef and owner of Chicago Ramen Annex, is seen at the new restaurant on Feb. 3, 2023, in Schaumburg. (Stacey Wescott / Chicago Tribune)

Considering how hulking an order can be, its perfectly understandable if Jiro-style ramen doesnt sound like a fit for you. Fortunately, Chicago Ramen Annex offers a number of other tempting bowls that Ikehata has already mastered at his other locations. That includes a wonderful chicken ramen that features a gorgeous golden broth and impeccably tender slices of chicken. This will taste particularly lovely in the summer. The menu also includes tsukemen ramen, a style where the noodles are served on the side, leaving you to dip them into a bowl of extra-thick broth.

The shop also offers a range of appetizers, including chicken kaarage, gyoza, shrimp tempura and pork buns. I cant comment on these, if only because with ramen this heavy, why would you possibly need more food? Ill never quite understand why local ramen shops do this.

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Still, I have nothing but respect for Ikehata. Not only does he serve some of the best ramen in Illinois, but hes also made a point of introducing the public to a number of lesser-known ramen styles. Thats especially impressive considering he managed to do all of this while dealing with a pandemic.

While Id still love to see an explosion of lighter styles of ramen, Ill never argue with a bowl of Jiro-style ramen as well crafted as this one.

nkindelsperger@chicagotribune.com

Chicago Ramen Annex

1608 E. Algonquin Road, Schaumburg

847-907-4755

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Tribune rating: Very good, two stars

Open: Sunday to Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to midnight

Prices: Ramen $12-$18

Noise: Conversation friendly

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, bathrooms on first floor

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.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a decree Sunday removing the commander of the militarys Joint Forces Operation (JFO), which is involved in the ongoing counteroffensive in the eastern Donbas region of the country.

Zelensky announced Eduard Moskalyovs dismissal in a one-line decree without any explanation, according to Reuters. Moskalyov had been appointed to the position last March.

The JFO was launched as a resistance force in 2014 after Russias seizure of the Crimean peninsula and parts of the Donbas, and has been heavily involved in fighting since Moscows full invasion a year ago.

Moskalyovs dismissal is the latest in a series of changes to Ukraines military amid a corruption scandal that nearly ousted Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov. Reznikov remains in office, and earlier this month appointed three new deputies. Its not clear if Moskalyovs dismissal was connected to corruption fallout.

The war in Ukraine surpassed its one-year mark on Friday, as Russian forces launched a new offensive earlier this month. Zelensky declared the year-long fight as a year of invincibility in an address last week.

Zelensky said last week that Ukraine will continue to defend Bakhmut, an eastern city in Donetsk province that has seen months of brutal Russian attacks, but not at any price.

President Biden visited Ukraine last week, ahead of a trip to Poland to deliver remarks about the one-year conflict between the two counties. In his address, he reiterated the United States and his allies commitment to Ukraines ultimate victory.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Russian forces carried out two attacks on civilian, non-residential infrastructure in Zaporizhzhia last night [26-27 February - ed.].

Source: Anatolii Kurtiev, Secretary of Zaporizhzhia City Council, on Telegram

Quote: "Two strikes on a civilian, non-residential infrastructure facility were recorded as a result of the enemys attack. There is damage. People were not wounded. Details are being confirmed."

Background:

Air-raid warnings were issued in Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast, as well as in a number of other oblasts, on the evening of Sunday, 26 February.

Air defence forces shot down three Iranian-made Shahed kamikaze drones over Chernihiv Oblast.

Explosions rocked the city of Khmelnytskyi while the air-raid warning was in place.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Nikole Hannah-Jones, the architect of the New York Times 1619 Project, lectured a Chinese woman who survived Mao Zedongs cultural revolution on the subject of oppression on Sunday.

Responding to Hannah-Joness criticism of the idea of American exceptionalism on Twitter, Xi Van Fleet, who lived through Maos China only to find success in America, argued that her experience in the U.S. militates against the argument that America is irrevocably tainted by its participation in slavery.

Our very presence on these lands is the greatest rebuke to the narrative of American exceptionalism, Hannah-Jones wrote at the top of a three-part Twitter thread.

Yourself and I, an immigrant from China with 200 borrowed dollars in my pocket when I arrived more than 30 yrs ago, are the proof of American Exceptionalism, Van Fleet said.

Yourself and I, an immigrant from China with 200 borrowed dollars in my pocket when I arrived more than 30 yrs ago, are the proof of American Exceptionalism.  Xi Van Fleet (@XVanFleet) February 26, 2023

Van Fleet pointed out that the natural-rights doctrine, unique to American founding, paved the way for the abolition of slavery, Jim Crow, and anti-Chinese laws. The lack of such liberal principles in her home country of China allows atrocities such as slavery to persist to this day, she pointed out. (The Chinese Communist Party is currently perpetrating egregious human-rights abuses against the Uighur Muslim minority in Xinjiang, China.)

Hannah-Jones suggested that the oppression people experienced under Maos regime, and still endure under the Chinese Communist Party, is also happening in some form in the United States.

Maam, the idea of natural rights may have been unique, but 1/5th of the population was enslaved at our founding and had no natural rights. Further, you do not think protesters in the US face state violence and arrest? You think the US has no political prisoners?, the journalist asked.

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Hannah-Jones then directed Van Fleet to educate herself on Americas legacy by watching episode five of the #1619hulu series called FEAR.

Im afraid your vision of America does not match the reality, she scorned.

Posting two graphic images, Van Fleet compared the political violence she observed during Maos rule to that which has been waged by Black Lives Matter and Antifa.

I haven seen political violence in both Maos China and here in America: one by Maos Red Guards, one by BLM & Antifa. pic.twitter.com/c8nvhkrEZ3  Xi Van Fleet (@XVanFleet) February 26, 2023

Youre joking right? Google treatment of Black Americans and violence against Black voters and civil rights activists during the period Mao was the leader of the CCP. You cant actually be serious here, Hannah Jones shot back.

Van Fleet, who came to the U.S. 35 years ago at age 26, recently spoke out against critical race theory during a Virginia school board meeting, likening the doctrine to the hateful ideologies she encountered as a child in communist China.

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At night, nine Shahed drones were shot down in the airspace of Kyiv

"The drone attack was actually conducted in two waves that lasted as long as possible, the head of Kyiv's military administration, Serhiy Popko, reported.

Read also: No power outages in Ukraine for two weeks now  Ukrenergo

Thus, the enemy was trying to implement its tactic of depleting our air defense capacity. That's why the last air-raid in Kyiv lasted for five and half hours.

There were no victims or damage to energy infrastructure reported.

Read also: Ukrainian defense forces destroy over 650 Russian cruise missiles, 610 drones since mid-September

Explosions were heard in Kyiv itself, as well as Kyiv and Chernihiv oblasts  likely air defense.

A number of drones struck the city of Khmelnytskyi, with three explosions reported in the city. One person was killed and another four were injured as a result. Several buildings were also damaged in the city.

Ukraine's General Staff reported that the Russian troops launched 14 Iranian-made Shahed drones in the attack, with 11 of them intercepted by Ukrainian defenders.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
LAS CRUCES  New Mexico State Police identified Leonardo Hernandez as the man killed by a Sunland Park police officer in a news release Friday.

The information came a day after state police announced it would investigate the fatal shooting on Feb 23. That investigation remains ongoing even as NMSP provided some information about the shooting.

In the release, NMSP allege Hernandez, 42, and two others argued before Sunland Park police officers arrived at a residence in the 100 block of Calle Diaz.

NMSP said Hernandez revealed a pistol shortly after SPPD officers arrived. Soon after that, an officer shot him, NMSP said.

The news release did not say if Hernandez pointed the weapon at the officers or how much time had passed between the reveal of the gun and the shooting. NMSP also did not specify how many shots the officer fired or if the officers present rendered aid, which they must do after a shooting.

According to the release, Hernandez was pronounced dead after he was transported to an El Paso hospital.

The release said there were no other injuries to the officers or civilians nearby.

"New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau agents are working to independently determine the series of events leading to the shooting, including collecting evidence and conducting interviews," the release said.

At the investigation's outset, NMSP will present its findings to the district attorney's office, which will determine if the officer's conduct violated the law.

Justin Garcia covers crime, courts and public safety. He can be reached via email at JEGarcia@lcsun-news.com.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: NMSP gives details on police killing of Sunland Park man
Nokia partnered with iFixit for its new G22 smartphone with self-repair features (Nokia)

Nokia has unveiled an entry-level smartphone designed to be easily repairable by users in an effort to create longer-lasting devices and reduce e-waste.

The Nokia G22 allows owners to swap the battery, screen or charging port in a few minutes using included tools and repair guides, which were developed in partnership with repair specialists iFixit.

The device is part of a trio of new phones  alongside the C32 and C22  unveiled at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) trade show in Barcelona.

This is smartphone autonomy, Nokia wrote in a press release for its new phone.

Nokia G22 empowers owners with the ability to replace a broken display, charging port or battery. It brings an array of longevity promises to the many, not the few.

Nokia follows leading smartphone manufacturers like Samsung and Google by partnering with iFixit to make their devices more affordable to fix. Other smaller smartphone makers, such as Fairphone, have made such repairability features a key part of their design.

People value long-lasting, quality devices and they shouldnt have to compromise on price to get it, said Adam Ferguson, head of product marketing at Nokia phones manufacturer HMD Global.

The new Nokia G22 is purposefully built with a repairable design so you can keep it even longer.

The release of the new phone comes in the wake of the Right to Repair movement, which calls on manufacturers to make their products easier to repair and modify for users.

As consumers increasingly demand more sustainable and longer-lasting devices, the ability to repair smartphones easily and affordably will become a key differentiator in the market, said Ben Wood, chief analyst at market research firm CCS Insight.

CCS Insights end-user research reflects this with approximately half of mobile phone users in western Europe saying they would like to be able to have their device repaired at a reasonable cost if they break outside of the warranty period.

The Nokia G22 will go on sale in the UK on 8 March, with prices starting at 150.
The Drip V High Waist Faux Leather Leggings are on sale at Nordstrom.

Not what you're looking for? Shop all Nordstrom's deals here in Canada, or here in the U.S.

If you're looking to elevate any casual look, faux leather leggings are the perfect thing to add into your wardrobe.

That's why our editors' top Nordstrom sale pick of the week is Naked Wardrobe's Drip V High Waist Faux Leather Leggings (shop here in Canada/shop here in the U.S.). Whether you're looking for a key piece to transition your winter wardrobe to spring or are just looking for a pair of trendy leggings for less, these are a great choice, especially at their current sale price.

Drip V High Waist Faux Leather Leggings - Nordstrom, $44 (originally $68)

$44 CAD $68 CAD at Nordstrom Canada

$58 USD at Nordstrom U.S.

Promising reviews

Nordstrom shoppers have called these Drip V High Waist Faux Leather Leggings "sleek and sexy."

"Absolutely love these. Love the waist detail, how it slims and accentuates my body," raved one shopper. "It has a nice stretch too. So comfortable. I loved them so much I had to get the brown colour too."

"Very stretchy and comfortable. Great look to dress up or down," added another.

Shoppers recommend ordering one size up because of the legging's curve-sculpting compression lining.

With so many Nordstrom sale picks, it can be a bit overwhelming to search through page after page. Luckily, were constantly on the lookout for the best discounts, and have spent some time combing through the latest Nordstrom sale additions (shop sale here in Canada, shop sale here in the U.S.) so you dont have to.

Check out more of the best Nordstrom deals of the week below.

Nordstrom Draped Rhinestone Drop Earrings - Nordstrom, $20 (originally $50)

These gorgeous rhinestone drop earrings are elegant and eye-catching, making them a great choice for any special event.

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $20 (originally $50)

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Open Edit's stylish midi skirt will keep you warm and cozy while showing your curves with its body-hugging fit.

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This one-shoulder bodysuit from Free People provides a fashionable twist on the classic bodysuit and can be paired with anything in your wardrobe.

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Billabong Free Fall Stretch Cotton Crop Wide Leg Pants - Nordstrom, $40 (originally $100)

Billabong's free fall stretch cotton crop pants feature a wide leg style, which offers a relaxed fit.

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $40 (originally $100)

Zella Snow Wash Rib Bike Shorts - Nordstrom, $26 (originally $69)

These Zella bike shorts have a subtle acid-inspired wash to create a lived in look. Grab them ahead of the spring while they are currently 62 per cent off.

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $26 (originally $69)

Nordstrom Cubic Zirconia Pave Hoop Earrings - Nordstrom, $38 (originally $75)

You can never have enough pairs of hoop earrings  especially if you're trying to tap into the clean girl aesthetic  and these ones are currently half off.

SHOP IT: Nordstrom, $38 (originally $75)

Free People A Little Unruly Long Sleeve Top - Nordstrom, $80 (originally $107)

Elevate any casual outfit with this square-neck top featuring studded cuff embellishments that give an edgy vibe.

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Madewell Readfield Rib Slim Fit Pullover Sweater - Nordstrom, $40 (originally $101)

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Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un opened a major political conference dedicated to agriculture, state media reported Monday, as outside assessments suggest the country is facing a serious shortfall of food.

South Korean experts estimate that North Korea is short around 1 million tons of grain, nearly 20 percent of its annual demand, after the pandemic likely disrupted unofficial grain imports from China and the government has restricted food sales at markets.

Recent, unconfirmed reports in South Korean media have said that some North Koreans have died of hunger. But most experts have seen no indication of mass deaths or famine in North Korea.

During a high-level meeting of the ruling Workers Party that began Sunday, senior party officials reviewed last years work on state goals to accomplish rural revolution in the new era, the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

The report said that the plenary meeting of the partys Central Committee will identify immediate, important tasks on agricultural issues and urgent tasks arising at the present stage of the national economic development.

KCNA didnt say whether Kim spoke during the meeting or how long it would last. Senior officials such as Cabinet Premier Kim Tok Hun and Jo Yong Won, one of Kims closest aides who handles the Central Committees organizational affairs, also attended.

Plenary meetings are key decision-making venues for the Workers Party. In recent years, Kim has held a plenary meeting two to four times a year to formulate major policies.

It is the first time the party has convened a plenary session only to discuss agriculture. Mondays report didnt elaborate on its agenda, but the partys Politburo said earlier this month that a turning point is needed to dynamically promote radical change in agricultural development.

Most analysts say North Koreas food situation today is nowhere near the extremes of the 1990s, when hundreds of thousands of people died in a famine. However, some experts say its food insecurity is likely at its worst since Kim took power in 2011, after COVID-19 restrictions further shocked an economy battered by decades of mismanagement and crippling U.S.-led sanctions imposed over Kims nuclear program. Russias war on Ukraine possibly worsened the situation by driving up global prices of food, energy and fertilizer.

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Its unclear whether North Korea will take any significant steps to address food shortages. The impoverished country devotes much of its scarce resources to its nuclear program.

To produce more grains, they should increase inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides and agricultural machines. But North Korea rarely comes up with such measures, said Nam Sung-wook, a professor at Korea University in South Korea. They have a limited budget. They can still take such steps (to produce more grain) with the money theyre spending on its missile development program.

North Korea has accelerated missile tests since last year, launching more than 70 missiles, many of them nuclear-capable weapons that place the U.S. mainland, South Korea and Japan within striking distance.

Nam said the current food problems dont pose a serious political threat to Kim, noting that his familys rule wasnt shaken even during the 1990s famine.

Last year, North Koreas grain production was estimated at 4.5 million tons, a 3.8% drop from a year earlier according to South Korean government assessments. The North was estimated to have produced between 4.4 million tons to 4.8 million tons of grain annually from 2012-2021, according to previous South Korean data.

North Korea needs about 5.5 million tons of grain to feed its 25 million people annually, so its short about 1 million tons this year. In past years, half of such a gap was usually met by unofficial grain purchases from China, with the rest remaining as unresolved shortfall, according to Kwon Tae-jin, a senior economist at the private GS&J Institute in South Korea.

Kwon says trade curbs due to the pandemic have likely hindered unofficial rice purchases from China. Efforts by North Korean authorities to tighten controls and restrict market activities have also worsened the situation, he said.

South Koreas Unification Ministry said the Norths current food shortage is more an issue of distribution than an absolute shortage, because much of the grain harvested last year has not been consumed yet.

Ministry officials said that the Norths food insecurity has worsened as authorities tightened controls over private grain sales in markets, instead trying to confine the grain trade to state-run facilities.

With the countrys factory and machinery sectors likely decimated by the border controls, Kim has been focusing on boosting grain production and reviving construction and other sectors that are less dependent on imported materials. Some experts say Kim likely aims to burnish his image as a leader who cares for public livelihoods as he seeks public support of his fight against U.S.-led sanctions and pressure campaigns.

State media reported that Kim and his beloved daughter broke ground Saturday on a project to build thousands of new homes in the Sopho district of Pyongyang, the capital. It was the seventh known public activity involving Kims daughter, believed to about 10 years old, since she made her first public appearance in November.

Last year, North Korea reopened freight train traffic with China and Russia and relaxed domestic restrictions, after it made a highly dubious claim that it had overcome the pandemic only three months after it acknowledged its first domestic outbreak. Analysts say its still unlikely that North Korea will completely end its curbs any time soon because many of its people remain unvaccinated and its public health care system is largely broken.
Every so often Francesca Royster hears someone in her neighborhood refer to their quaint slice of Rogers Park as Shangri-La, as a kind of paradise, isolated and content and unchanging. If youre charitable, you might say that referring to their street as Shangri-La is harmless pride, a cute way of thinking about a particularly peaceful oasis in Chicago, an uncommonly quiet respite tucked into the greater noisy urban sprawl. Or you might hear something more casually transgressive, a sigh of relief that somehow their street is still an immutable, homogenous anomaly within one of Chicagos most culturally diverse neighborhoods.

Royster is a longtime professor of English at DePaul University, specializing in Shakespeare, critical race theory, gender and sexuality studies, popular music; her classes often help to satisfy the universitys requirements for multicultural courses.

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She is a tuning fork for language.

So she says Shangri-La with a smile, but also a slight wince. Its easy to hear a dogwhistle in Shangri-La, a reminder the street has many of the same white, ethnically European families as it did generations ago. Yet shes fast to note: It is lovely there. In fact, shes never lived in a community that felt as much like a vibrant community. There are Latinx households, Asian households, South Asian households. Shes a Black woman married to a white woman, and theyre not the only interracial or queer couple (though maybe the only one with a Black adopted daughter). She writes in her new book, Choosing Family: A Memoir of Queer Motherhood and Black Resistance:

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Weve felt safe as a queer multiracial family.

There are tensions. A Black Lives Matter banner that vanishes from the street, but Blues Lives Matter reminders that do not. Awkward book-club conversations when she and her partner, Ann, put up their own Black Lives Matter sign. White families who settled on the street generations ago and only pass their homes on to their children, thereby inadvertently keeping outsiders out. She mentioned the Spanish-speaking residents left out of neighborhood activities when signs and event notices were only in English.

But considering its a memoir about identity, race and gender, arriving at the peak of a particularly menacing cultural war driven by politics, Choosing Family is closer to a portrait of stability, even acceptance. In spite of the world, you might add. Shangri-La and its pros and cons are a small piece. The book doesnt read like another contemporary memoir about social justice, gender politics and finding your place. But it is. Royster, who is 56 and talks with tenderness and warmth, said she preferred to leave the typical tensions vibrating at the margins. My take on social justice is my whole life has been about teaching, and teaching critical (thinking), but my way to live life is to embrace joy, find the ways we are similar. She let that settle in, then said: It is a Pollyannish worldview, I guess. But I want to show how to move through this world in good faith. We have a society to fix. We have to make more stories visible. But that isnt impossible.

Indeed, if theres lingering tension in Choosing Family, its a byproduct:

There is the dark side to being too acceptable, Royster said. The resistance part of a life gets buried: How do you challenge society if you look a lot like what society wants?

Not surprisingly, editors and agents asked for more conflict in the book. They asked her to tone down the side trips into queer academic theory  only to have Abrams, the publisher, ask for more. Hellhole by the Lake might have been a sexier title than Choosing Family; for a time she wanted a more in-your face title. But tonally, it wouldnt have fit her style.

Her office in DePaul, on a winter morning, is a literal ray of sunshine, radiating from an open door at the end of a gray hallway. A green watering can promises spring. Being Valentines Day, a half-hour later, Royster asks the 18 or so students in her class on writers of color to declare their love for something that doesnt get enough love, and their replies are like coos: Airports! Snow! George Harrison! Woody from Toy Story.

Francesca Royster, author and professor, reads in her office at DePaul University. (Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune)

I mention this because even the one potentially provocative part of Choosing Family sounds more argumentative than it actually is. Writing of her upbringing in the Chatham neighborhood on the South Side, she notes: My family was queer without ever claiming the word. She writes that many Black families share a lot with queer communities. Its a queerness mostly outside of typical mainstream associations with gender and sexuality.

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She said: I mean, in terms of connections, collaborations. In terms of valuing things not approved by the wider culture. In the sense of being in excess  too loud, too fertile. In terms of redefining family. This idea is not new; it comes from queer theorists like Eve Sedgwick, Jose Munoz, Cathy Cohen at University of Chicago. Jack Halberstam (a renowned professor of gender at Columbia University) has an idea about queer time, not necessarily defining yourself by a clock in which you marry and have children and so forth. Its a positive thing to think of Black families as queer. The ways in which you struggle, reinvent yourself, patch things together to make them work, treating people like family, taking care of each other. Thats all connected with queerness. I saw it in my own family as a kid. Informal adoptions. My great-grandmother ran a boardinghouse in Chicago that had folks coming in from the Great Migration. When marriages broke up, you might even have a bachelor uncle staying in your spare room for a while. Getting through the challenges of racism and class struggle sometimes meant redefining who you belong to and who you work with.

Choosing Family: A Memoir of Queer Motherhood and Black Resistance by Francesca T. Royster (published by Harry N. Abrams, 2023).

Her father, Philip Royster, is a professor emeritus of English at University of Illinois at Chicago; her mother, Sandra Royster, was a programmer at the Chicago Cultural Center. Francesca, who received her Ph.D. in English literature at the University of California at Berkeley, has been at DePaul for 24 years and written (academic) books on Black country music and queerness in post-soul music (think Grace Jones). In her office, as if they were dots connecting a picture, there is a knitted Prince plush, a Scary Spice doll, a Spock action figure and rows of books on gender theory, Shakespeare and social justice. Closest to her, theres a smattering of candids, shots of her dad, her daughter Cece; a photo of Francesca and her partner, Ann Russo, who also teaches at DePaul, getting married at the Daley Center. After, they went to McDonalds for dessert.

Choosing Family, in a way, is a road map to being an interracial lesbian family in Chicago. Or rather, its one road map. Chicago being politically left, theres less of a threat of violence to her family and more a navigation of assumptions, since Im Black, Annies white, were older, I dont look like Cece, so she gets read as a random child.

She wrote the book, she said, to slow time, to document her ancestry in Chicago, and to reflect how her small, newer family of three is and isnt like their neighbors. But I think I wrote it really to figure out how to be a mom. It was a way of thinking out loud on the page. Cece (now 10) is adopted and I think her struggle  maybe this is true for most of us  is to feel like she has roots, that she belongs. I gave her a copy of my book and said This is here for you, whenever you want to open it. Take your time. It was intended for you.

cborrelli@chicagotribune.com
By Josh Smith and Hyunsu Yim

SEOUL (Reuters) -North Korean leader Kim Jong Un urged government officials to engineer a "fundamental transformation" in agricultural production, state media reported on Tuesday, amid fears that the country's food shortage is worsening.

Kim said hitting grain production targets this year was a top priority and emphasized the importance of stable agriculture production during the second day of the seventh enlarged plenary meeting of the 8th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea on Monday, according to state news agency KCNA.

The report did not elaborate on what measures North Korea would take, but Kim said the changes need to happen in the next few years.

Collective farms account for the vast majority of North Korea's agriculture, according to researchers. Such farms typically host multiple small farmers who produce crops with joint labor.

Kim's remark comes amid reports of growing food shortages in the country, though North Korea has denied suggestions that it cannot provide for its citizens.

Earlier this month, South Korea's Unification Ministry said the food situation in the North "seemed to have deteriorated".

The ministry said at the time that it was rare for North Korea to announce a special meeting on agriculture strategy which was slated for late February.

In his address at Monday's meeting, KCNA said Kim mentioned the "importance of the growth of the agricultural productive forces" in ensuring socialist construction.

North Korea is under strict international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, and its economy has been further strained by strict self-imposed border lockdowns aimed at stopping COVID-19 outbreaks.

The full extent of the food shortages in North Korea is unclear, but in a January report, the U.S.-based 38 North project said that food insecurity was at its worst since famines that devastated the country in the 1990s.

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"Food availability has likely fallen below the bare minimum with regard to human needs," the report said.

North Korea's pursuit of self-sufficiency means almost all its grain is produced domestically, but that has left the country vulnerable, 38 North found.

"Achieving adequate agricultural output in North Koreas unfavorable soils has, ironically, generated a heavy reliance on imported goods and left the country exposed to global shocks, diplomatic conflicts, and adverse weather," the report said.

The long-term solution to the problems lies partly in resolving the standoff over nuclear weapons and sanctions, but also requires economic reforms.

The initiation of domestic economic reforms would unshackle North Korea's productive capacity and allow it to export industrial products and tradable services, earn foreign exchange and import bulk grains on a commercially sustainable basis, 38 North said.

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Editing by Sandra Maler and Michael Perry)
By Josh Smith

SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un kicked off a meeting of ruling party officials to discuss improving the country's economy and agricultural sector, state media reported on Monday, as fears of food shortages and a humanitarian crisis grow.

International experts say food insecurity has worsened in the isolated nation amid sanctions and COVID-19 lockdowns.

Kim oversaw the seventh enlarged plenary meeting of the 8th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea on Sunday as it reviewed rural development projects, state news agency KCNA reported.

On its first day the gathering approved agenda items, KCNA reported, while providing few details. The meeting is ongoing, the report added.

In announcing the meeting in February, KCNA said it was "a very important and urgent task to establish the correct strategy for the development of agriculture."

The North Korean food situation appears to have deteriorated, South Korea said this month, with officials in Seoul pointing to the meeting as a de facto acknowledgement of serious shortages.

Last month the U.S.-based 38 North programme, which monitors North Korea, said in a report that "food availability has likely fallen below the bare minimum with regard to human needs," with food insecurity at its worst since the famines of the 1990s.

North Korea is under strict international sanctions over its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, and in recent years its limited border trade was virtually choked off by self-imposed lockdowns aimed at preventing COVID-19.

(Reporting by Josh Smith. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
(Bloomberg) -- Three years after the UK left the European Union, the two have achieved what seemed to be impossible: They clinched an agreement on Northern Irelands trading arrangements in an attempt to resolve the biggest obstacle left over from the bitter split.

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The deal adds flexibility for goods moving between Britain and Northern Ireland and includes a new mechanism for Northern Ireland to challenge amendments to existing EU law while keeping the European Court of Justice as the sole arbiter of EU regulations. The UK also agreed to shelve a controversial bill that would allow it to override the agreement.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has promised to give MPs a vote on the new Windsor Framework that will likely take place next week, according to a person familiar with the plan who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Since the opposition Labour Party has said it will support the deal, its likely to pass.

While the accord still needs formal approval on both sides, it could bring the EU-UK relationship back in from the cold. Here are five key takeaways:

1. Lowering Trade Barriers With Great Britain

A green and red lane system separating goods traveling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland from those continuing into the EU will replace existing arrangements, requiring less onerous checks and paperwork on products staying within the UK than those destined for the EU. This aims to resolve the biggest practical impact of the old agreement, which made it more complicated for businesses whose supply chains cover both Britain and Northern Ireland.

Sunak said this new system would deliver smooth flowing trade within the whole United Kingdom.

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2. The ECJ Still Has Oversight

The European Court of Justice will continue to be the final arbiter on matters of EU law affecting Northern Ireland. The role of the ECJ has been a key concern for pro-unionist politicians in Belfast and London, who didnt want EU regulations superseding UK laws. The issue has always been a non-starter for the European Commission, which always demanded that the ECJ have final sway over the blocs rules.

Sunak told pro-Brexit MPs on Monday that he sympathized with their view that EU law should have no role in Northern Ireland, but that this was impossible while the region remains in the blocs single market. He said he secured the minimal amount necessary to avoid a hard border with the island of Ireland, and that the amount of EU law that will now apply Northern Ireland will be less than 3%.

3. Stormont Brake: The New Measure of Last Resort

The agreement introduces a mechanism  called the Stormont Brake  that Sunak described as a veto over whether amended EU laws would apply in Northern Ireland. EU officials outlined a more subtle mechanism intended as a measure of last resort that would only apply when the bloc amends or replaces existing laws with a significant and persistent impact on everyday lives of people in Northern Ireland.

It would require 30 Northern Ireland lawmakers to request for the provision to be triggered. Then, the UK government would have to decide to use the mechanism, which would prompt efforts by London and Brussels to resolve the dispute. If London moves ahead with the brake, the EU would be empowered to take unspecified measures to protect its internal market, officials said. EU officials said the ECJ wouldnt be involved in the process.

4. Changes to Key Taxation Rules

The UK government will be able to extend taxation changes to Northern Ireland more easily, including value-added tax on goods.

Its a similar outcome for the UKs ability to extend subsidy controls to Northern Ireland  meaning it expects more than 98% of the regions subsidies to be unaffected in practice. The rules on state aid had created a broader concern that a chilling effect had been placed on business investment and trade, the UK said, and hopes the new arrangement will provide more certainty.

5. All Eyes on the DUP

Sunak received broad support from Conservative MPs when he announced the deal to the House of Commons late Monday. Former Brexit Secretary David Davis called it a spectacular negotiating success while former Prime Minister Theresa May urged her colleagues to back the agreement.

Still, Northern Irelands Democratic Unionist Party  which has blocked the formation of the regions power-sharing government for over a year  continued to express their concerns. Its leader, Jeffrey Donaldson, said he welcomed the progress, but wasnt yet prepared to endorse the deal.

There remain key issues of concern, Donaldson said in the House of Commons. He said his party would study the deal closely before passing judgment. He sought an assurance from Sunak that Northern Irelands place within the UKs internal market would be protected. Sunak said he respected the DUPs need to examine the deal.

The new deal still needs to be put into international and domestic law. Some new arrangements, like taxation, will then apply immediately, but others will need to be phased in over the next couple of years. The government expects some new arrangements for goods, agrifood products, pets and plant movements to be introduced later throughout this year and next, such as on parcels.

--With assistance from Joe Mayes, Jorge Valero, Alberto Nardelli and Adam Blenford.

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Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak greets European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen as she arrives at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor, west of London, on Feb. 27, 2023, ahead of their meeting. Credit - Dan Kitwood / POOL / AFP via Getty Images

On Monday, the U.K. and the European Union announced that they had reached a new deal called the Windsor Framework to revise the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol that sets out trade rules between Northern Ireland, which is part of Great Britain, and the Republic of Ireland, an E.U. member state.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor, near London, followed by a press conference Monday, where Sunak and von der Leyen hailed the new agreement as a decisive breakthrough.

Sunak told reporters the agreement charts a new way forward for Northern Ireland by removing any sense of a border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K. The introduction of checks on goods flowing between the two following Brexit has soured U.K.-E.U. relations, sparked the collapse of the local Belfast government, and shaken a decades-old peace process in Northern Ireland.

On Tuesday, Sunak traveled to Belfast to sell the agreement to unionists who have long come out against any measures that weakens Northern Irelands place within Britain.

Below, what to know about the controversial protocol.

What is the Northern Ireland Protocol?

The protocol is a trading agreement that was negotiated in 2020 between the U.K. and the E.U., which was created to minimize customs and checks on the island of Ireland.

Brexit had sparked fears of an introduction of cameras or physical checks at the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. An open border between the two was a key component of the 1998 Good Friday agreement that brought hard-won peace to Northern Ireland following decades of conflict known as the Troubles.

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To maintain the 1998 Good Friday agreement, both the U.K. and E.U. agreed that the inspection of goods would be conducted between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) and Northern Ireland, effectively creating a de facto border in the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K. The protocol was signed as part of the Brexit withdrawal agreement, which is now ratified under international law.

However, the British government has since signaled that it wants different rules to help remove checks between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K.

According the the revised deal, there will be a green lane for traders transporting goods to Northern Ireland exempt from customs controls, and a red lane for goods going to the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the E.U.

At Mondays press conference, Sunak also announced a Stormont brake, which will allow Northern Irelands legislative assembly to stop the E.U.s customs rules from applying. This will establish a clear process for which the democratically elected assembly can pull an emergency brake for changes to E.U. goods rules that would have significant and lasting effects on everyday lives, Sunak said. If the brake is pulled, the U.K. government will have a veto.

Why has the Protocol been a source of tension?

The Northern Ireland Protocol has led to political division in Northern Ireland and created rifts within the U.K.s Conservative Party over what it means for Brexit.

British unionist politicians in Belfast said the trade border in the Irish Sea undermines Northern Irelands place in the U.K., and in 2022 the Protestant-Catholic power-sharing government in Northern Ireland collapsed. The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has refused to participate in any government until the Protocol was scrapped or substantially rewritten.

Conservative MPs in Westminster as well as the DUP are opposed to the role played by the European Court of Justice in resolving any trade disputes that arise over the rules. They insist the European court must have no jurisdiction in matters relating to the U.K.

Is there support for the revised protocol?

The deal has been criticized by Sunaks critics but the DUP has remained largely silent in recent days, after saying it would need to see the details of the deal first. Sunak is expected to announce the deal with or without DUP approval. I want to get the job done, he told the Sunday Times.

Nationalist parties Sinn Fein and the SDLP back the protocol, with Sinn Fein being in favor as it would prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland.

On Sunday, U.K. Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab told Channel 4 that there was no de facto veto from the DUP. We want to engage, and persuade, and convince, and demonstrate  [that] the changes are substantial enough for the DUP, Raab said. Were confident enough in the substance of the changes to feel front-footed about doing so.

Sunak has said British lawmakers will get to vote on the Northern Ireland Protocol deal, but that he will give MPs time to digest it first.

Sunak has the support of senior Tory MPs, including former Brexit secretary David Davis, who said his own instinct was to support a deal. Sunak is working hard to win Brexit supporters over. Ive had a call from him. If he needs Labour support, it might be mildly embarrassing, but nothing more, Davis told The Independent.

On Monday, Labour Leader Kier Starmer said that his party was likely to support any deal that the government strikes with the E.U., adding that Labour isnt a divided party on the issue. Speaking at an event with business leaders held in central London, Starmer said that his own experience working as a barrister in Northern Ireland added to his view that anything that would improve the situation there would be welcome.

Will the deal improve U.K. ties to the E.U. and U.S.?

The deal entails major concessions from Brussels, which has so far been more favorable to Sunak than his more hardline predecessors, Boris Johnson and Liz Truss. If the revised deal falls through, Sunak would be forced to unilaterally override key parts of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which could lead to a costly trade war with Brussels.

Sunak also hopes the Windsor Framework will help improve relations with the U.S., which helped broker the Good Friday Agreement. The Biden administration previously warned Sunaks predecessors that unilaterally overriding the Protocol would not be conducive to a U.K.-U.S. trade deal. In February, Sunak met with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris in Munich, where the two leaders affirmed their shared commitment to protecting and building on the gains of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, according to the White House. Biden is expected to travel to the U.K. around Good Friday in April, but on condition that an agreement is in place by then.
Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen held a press conference to discuss the newly agreed Windsor Framework. (Reuters)

What's happening? Rishi Sunak has signed a new deal with the European Union over post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland.

The agreement between Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen follows months of discussions between the UK and EU over what was known as the Northern Ireland Protocol, a controversial trade agreement for the region that came into effect in 2021.

The protocol was designed to prevent a hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland  and any future Brexit agreements must do the same.

However, the protocol was unpopular with unionists in Northern Ireland, who felt that it put a de facto sea border between them and the rest of the UK.

Following their meeting, Sunak and von der Leyen announced a new deal known as the Windsor Framework had been agreed, ironing out many of the issues with the previous deal.

Speaking in the House of Commons on Monday, Sunak said: "This is fundamental, far-reaching change and it permanently removes the border in the Irish Sea."

Yahoo News UK breaks down what the new framework is and why it's important:

What is the Windsor Framework?

The Windsor Framework is a new post-Brexit trading deal, designed to remove the need for checks on goods travelling between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

In a press conference with von der Leyen on Monday, Sunak said the new plan "delivers smooth-flowing trade within the whole of the United Kingdom, protects Northern Ireland's place in our union and safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland".

The previous Northern Ireland Protocol was agreed between the EU and UK to prevent a hard border between Ireland and Northern Ireland, and effectively established a sea border between the mainland and the island of Ireland.

The Windsor Framework sets out a two-tier customs system that sees goods remaining in the UK (heading to Northern Ireland) put in a 'green lane' that avoids customs checks, while subjecting goods bound for the Republic to the 'red lane' for customs.

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Watch: Brexit: Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen hold a press conference on new deal

Under the previous system, there was a free-flow of goods between north and south, but there were trade barriers between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

Furthermore, the protocol kept Northern Ireland in the EU single market for goods, and it therefore still had to follow some rules set by the EU.

All of this meant that the protocol was vehemently disliked by unionist parties, including the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). They argued that the protocol effectively created a border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK  thereby making them second-class citizens compared to people in England, Scotland and Wales.

The new deal will also see UK-approved medicine available in Northern Ireland at the same time as the rest of the country, while a "Stormont brake" has been approved that allows elected politicians in Northern Ireland to make decisions on which EU goods laws apply to them.

What's the problem with a land border?

A land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic would have undermined the Good Friday Agreement, which was signed in 1998 and is credited for maintaining peace in the region.

During the discussions around Brexit, it was agreed that preserving the Good Friday Agreement (also known as the Belfast Agreement) was key, and prompted widespread discussion about how best to manage trade in a post-Brexit Northern Ireland.

The Good Friday Agreement is a framework for peace following a turbulent period in Irish history known as The Troubles. The multi-party agreement laid out arrangements over power sharing and the rights of people in the Republic and Northern Ireland over identity and citizenship.

The NI Protocol is a contentious issue. (Reuters)

Putting a land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic was therefore seen as hugely incendiary, given the two spent decades bitterly fighting over whether the north should return to be part of a united Ireland or remain part of the UK.

What about Boris Johnson?

While former prime minister Boris Johnson agreed in 2020 to the existing Northern Ireland Protocol, Sunak's new deal changes things.

The Windsor Framework puts a sea border between the UK and the Republic of Ireland, but not between the UK and Northern Ireland  effectively creating a "two-lane" border system.

This would see goods from the UK bound for the Republic subject to checks at the sea border but not goods bound for Northern Ireland.

Sunak has also secured a "Stormont lock" that would allow elected Northern Ireland officials to have some say  but not a veto  over which EU trade rules it follows in the future.

It remains unclear whether Boris Johnson will lend his backing to Rishi Sunak's new deal. (Reuters)

Johnson previously already suggested making a new deal on the Northern Ireland protocol would be a "great mistake", while his reaction to the deal will be watched closely by his allies and detractors as an indicator of how some backbenchers will take the news.

He has not yet made a statement on the new accord.

What is Article 16?

Article 16 is a safeguarding clause worked into the Brexit deal that allows the UK or EU to suspend any part of the deal that is causing economic, societal or environmental difficulties that are liable to persist, or to diversion of trade.

If the UK had triggered Article 16 over the Northern Ireland Protocol, the EU suggested it would have responded with legal action, as it does not believe the situation warrants such a move.

What does the DUP say?

There are fears Sunak has not done enough to secure the backing of the DUP, which insists Northern Ireland should not be subject to any EU involvement. The party is currently boycotting the devolved assembly in Stormont over the issue, which is putting further pressure on Sunak to find a way forward.

The prime minister's allies hope that the two-lane border system and greater say over which EU trade rules to follow will be enough to win over the unionists; however, it is hugely unlikely they will give the deal their backing today.

The DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said on Monday that while significant progress has been made on the new deal, there remain key issues of concern.

In Parliament, Donaldson said the new deal "vindicated" the DUP over the Northern Ireland Protocol following a long campaign to scrap it.

Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster a day after the new deal was announced, Donaldson insisted his party was absolutely not divided on the framework and that they would "take as long as it takes" to review the deal.

Let me be clear, our party officers, our assembly members, our members of parliament, and ultimately, our party executive, will determine the partys approach on this issue, he said.

We will consult and we will take our time. We will talk to people. We will listen to what people are saying, they will articulate their views. Of course, there will be a diversity and a range of views.

People will react in different ways. But the DUP will come to a collective decision on this agreement.

Other reactions to the framework

While the DUP is yet to release a comprehensive statement on the new deal, the business community in Northern Ireland has largely responded positively to the news

It is our shared aspiration that this agreement will deliver a unique platform that unlocks economic growth and investment, but we will now need time and space to work through the technical detail with our members," the Northern Ireland Business Brexit Working Group said in a statement.

Sunak acknowledged on Monday that the new deal would take time for people to digest, but said the framework would "end the uncertainty and challenge for the people of Northern Ireland".

Londonderry Chamber president Selina Horshi said: We are hopeful that this new agreement will further smooth trade for local businesses, iron out any of the problems for traders, and bolster our unique market position which guarantees this part of the world access to the European and British markets. However, above all, we are hopeful that this deal now paves the way for the full and speedy return of the Executive and Assembly at Stormont."

Meanwhile Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker sad the deal was a "triumph".

Im absolutely convinced that this restores, by any legitimate measure, Northern Irelands place in the union, the Brexiteer told the BBC. Its great news. Its an extraordinary achievement. Its a terrific thing to have pulled off.

However, other Brexit hardliners are yet to respond to the news, although it is thought that there will be little significant rebellion over the new deal.

Following Sunak's speech in the Commons on Monday, Labour leader Keir Starmer said his party would back the deal, which he said was in the national interest, although he added that it was "not perfect" and that there would "inevitably be trade-offs".
COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  Dozens of activists, including Greta Thunberg of neighboring Sweden, were blocking the entrance to Norways energy ministry in Oslo Monday to protest a wind farm they say hinders the rights of the Sami indigenous people to raise reindeer in Arctic Norway.

The activists, mainly teenagers, are lying outside the ministry entrance holding Sami flags and a poster reading Land Back.

The protesters from organizations called Young Friends of The Earth Norway and the Norwegian Sami Associations youth council NSR-Nuorat, say the ongoing human rights violations against Sami reindeer herders must come to an end.

In October 2021, Norways Supreme Court ruled that the construction of the wind turbines violated the rights of the Sami people, who have been using the land to raise reindeer for centuries. However, the wind farm is still operating.

Over the weekend, the protesters had occupied the ministrys lobby but were evicted by police early Monday, according to Norwegian broadcaster NRK. They shifted their protest to chaining themselves outside the main entrance to the ministry, prompting authorities to urge employees to work from home.

Norway's Energy Minister Terje Aasland told NRK that although the Supreme Court has ruled that the construction of the wind farm as invalid, the court does not say anything about what should happen to it.

The government must make new decisions that are in line with the premise of the Supreme Courts judgment, Aasland told the broadcaster.

The Sami live in Lapland, which stretches from northern parts of Norway through Sweden and Finland to Russia. They once faced oppression of their culture, including bans on the use of their native tongue.

Today the nomadic people live mostly modern lifestyles but still tend reindeer and some still wear their traditionally bright-colored national dress.
A Google Street View image of the Russian Embassy in Oslo, dated May 2022. This is not where Kjetil Krane's protest action took place. Google Street View

A 73-year-old Norwegian man woke Russian diplomats with an 'air raid siren' late on Friday.

His noisy protest in Oslo came on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

He wanted Russians to wake up to the war, he told Norwegian outlet Nettavisen.

A 73-year-old in Oslo gave Russian diplomats a rude awakening by blasting a siren outside their bedroom windows on the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, according to a local report.

On Friday night at around 2.30 a.m. local time, Kjetil Krane carried a loudspeaker out to an apartment block known to house workers at Oslo's Russian embassy, Nettavisen reported.

Standing in the freezing cold, Krane played the sound of a Japanese foghorn, which bears a striking resemblance to an air-raid siren, according to the outlet. Over the past year Ukrainian civilians have had to shelter in fear during Russian air raids, which frequently strike residential areas as well as military targets.

In a video shared by Nettavisen, Krane can be seen wearing a T-shirt that says "wake a Russian" in Norwegian as a newly-awoken resident peers out of a window.

Krane told the outlet that he wanted the diplomats to wake up over the issue of the war, both literally and figuratively. In a poster he distributed around the neighborhood ahead of time, and pictured by Nettavisen, he gave advance warning and reassurance about his actions.

He said he was prepared to be arrested, adding that the act may be illegal but he did not think it was immoral.

Police were called out and patrolled the area, but only after Krane had left, according to Nettavisen.

Krane's act of defiance is just one among a flurry of trollish steps taken at Russian diplomatic outposts worldwide since the 2022 invasion.

On Friday, German art activists Enno Lenze and Wieland Giebel dumped a wrecked Russian tank outside the country's embassy in Berlin, after months of legal efforts to get permission to do so from local authorities.

In London last week, activist group Led By Donkeys poured blue and yellow paint along the road outside the Russian embassy, ensuring that cars driving by would "paint" the road with the colors of Ukraine's flag.

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And in October last year, two Finnish men, Jarno Virtala and Markus Mattsson, painted over a diplomatic parking spot in the same colors outside the home of a Russian envoy, calling the act an "annexation" of the "territory" of the parking space for Ukraine.

Several streets housing Russian embassies around the world have also been renamed in Ukraine's honor.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Reuters

Our United States is slouching towards a presidential election that almost nobody wants.

The 2024 vote seems increasingly likely to be a re-match between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

It would be only the seventh re-match in the 59 presidential elections in American history and the first since President Dwight D. Eisenhower faced off against Adlai Stevenson for a second time in 1956.

Yet my polling shows that American voters as a whole are deeply unenthusiastic about both Biden and Trump.

According to our latest national survey, both are about equally unpopular, with Bidens unfavorability rating of 52-45 percent only marginally different from Trumps 52-44 percent.

But power operates according to certain well-worn dynamics, as I explore in my new book Power: The Fifty Truths. Everyone is acting in their rational self-interest, yet their interaction yields a sub-optimal outcome.

Despite public disdain, pressures on the Republican and Democratic parties are pushing each to re-do the 2020 contest even though the public would prefer a different choice.

Donald Trump announces that he will once again run for U.S. president in 2024, during an event at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

Trump, of course, has falsely claimed that the 2020 vote was stolen from him and convinced a sizable section of his base that this was the case.

Trump Didnt Clear the 2024 Field. His Campaign Is Smiling.

He is fighting to re-litigate the result despite the courts rejecting his claims and his supporters failing to block certification of the election by storming Congress on Jan. 6, 2021.

Although Ron DeSantis has emerged as Trumps first serious rival in the Republican Party, it is questionable whether the Florida governor commands the personal devotion of his followers, as Trump does, and if he can withstand Trumps withering attacks.

Although big donors such as the Club for Growth and the Koch brothers Americans for Prosperity are bailing on Trump, it is far from clear that Republican voters are going to follow them.

Donald Trump speaks about the recent derailment of a train carrying hazardous waste, during an event at a fire station in East Palestine, Ohio. Alan Freed/Retuers

As I describe in my book, Trump, the larger-than-life tabloid character and reality TV star, is the first presidential candidate to master political messaging in the age of social media.

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He has pioneered a method that I call communicate to dominate to control the narrative round the clock with unpredictable and inflammatory outbursts, even if the claims are manifestly untrue.

We are already seeing this in the 2024 race with Trump going as far as to hint on his Truth Social platform that DeSantis, a former teacher, may be some kind of pedophile grooming high school girls with alcohol.

His trademark two-word nickname Ron DeSanctimonious seems to have stuck, as did Crooked Hillary Clinton and Lyin Ted Cruz.

My own public polling conducted in early February by my firm Schoen Cooperman shows Trump leading DeSantis by 1 point in a head-to-head race, and by 11 points in a multi-candidate race, precisely what the contest is shaping up to be now that Nikki Haley and likely others are entering the race.

Biden is better placed than Trump to lock out rival pretenders for the Democratic nomination when he announces he is seeking re-election.

The Democrats relative success in the midterm elections has strengthened him within the party.

He has already taken steps to secure the partys all-important African-American constituency, which rescued his campaign last time around.

U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris at the DNC 2023 Winter Meeting in Philadelphia. Elizabeth Frantz/Retuers

As well as running again with Kamala Harris, Biden has promoted the heavily African-American South Carolina to replace New Hampshire as his partys first primary and won the support of local congressman and 2020 kingmaker Rep. Jim Clyburn.

He will also benefit from his support for Hakeem Jeffries as the first Black leader of the House Democratic Caucus.

Biden beat Trump in 2020 despite spending months of the campaign in the basement of his home in Delaware.

As an incumbent, Biden will be campaigning this time round from the Oval Office with the famous White House bully pulpit.

Bidens Biggest 2024 Battle Is to Keep the Blue Wall Intact

I have experience of running a re-election campaign from the White House with Bill Clinton in 1996.

While the challenger has to run around the country to get attention, the president can command attention from the Oval Office.

President Joe Biden delivers the State of the Union address as Vice President Kamala Harris and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy watch. Reuters

Whats more, the fundraising burden is eased because donors give easily to a sitting president.

So the 2024 contest is likely to follow the same pattern as the 2024 election, where the choice between Biden and Trump is settled by a relatively small group of independent voters.

Of course, both men will be four years olderTrump, 78, and Biden a record-setting 81 years old.

Once again, Bidens greatest strength is likely to be that he is not Donald Trump.

Of the six previous presidential re-matches, the challenger has won four times: Thomas Jefferson in 1800; Andrew Jackson in 1828; William Henry Harrison in 1840; and Grover Cleveland in 1892. But on the last two occasions, the incumbent has won: William McKinley in 1900; and Eisenhower in 1956.

Our current polling suggests Biden would win the re-match against Trump by 45-42 percent, though 13 percent remain undecided.

If that is the eventual result, after all the twists and turns of the campaign, a United States that 63 percent of voters say is heading in the wrong direction will remain in an unsatisfactory stasis.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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At the heels of an investigation, several members of a police department are turning in their badges after their police chief was arrested and replaced.

According to the Clinch County Sheriffs Office, a special city council meeting was held on Saturday to appoint the interim Homerville police chief, James Herndon.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

This is after the Georgia Bureau of Investigation arrested the former Chief of Police at the Homerville Police department.

Dearin Mack Drury, 40, was arrested for a Feb. 19 incident where he allegedly improperly handled evidence at the department.

The Clinch County Sheriffs Office reported the incident to the GBI and then began investigating Drurys alleged misconduct.

On Saturday, Homerville command staff and other police officers turned in their resignations.

TRENDING STORIES:

After the meeting was over, Clinch County Sheriff Stephen Tinsley took to Facebook to address the resignation of several members of the police force.

In the lengthy post, Tinsley states the newly appointed chief Herndon didnt have the staff or equipment available able to answer service calls for Homerville.

He had neither the staff nor the equipment available to handle any calls for service within the City of Homerville. I assured Chief Herndon that the Clinch County Sheriffs Office will answer calls for service until a resolution can be reached by the city administrators, Tinsley said.

The sheriffs office said it will continue to serve all of Clinch County and will not affect how they conduct business.

We will continue to answer calls and enforce the laws throughout the county, including the City of Homerville, the sheriff said.

As for Drury, he is facing charges of theft by taking, possession of marijuana, false statements and writing, and violation of oath.

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Two Kentucky prison officers have admitted to assaulting inmates and lying to cover up the crimes.

Samuel J. Patrick and Clinton L. Pauley pleaded guilty last week in federal court. The two were correctional officers at the high-security federal prison in Martin County, called USP Big Sandy, when they attacked inmates in 2021.

Patrick pleaded guilty to two charges of depriving inmates of their Constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment, and Pauley pleaded guilty to three counts.

Patrick admitted that in April 2021 when an inmate asked to be placed into protective custody, he knocked the man down in an office at the prison and elbowed him repeatedly in the head.

Patrick did this out of anger and not due to any legitimate correctional purpose, according to his plea agreement.

Pauley admitted he also struck the inmate, and both said another officer, Lt. Kevin C. Pearce Jr., was present but did nothing to intervene in the assault.

Pearce is charged in the case but has pleaded not guilty.

The three officers agreed to cover up the assault, and Patrick and Pauley drafted false statements that didnt mention their assault on the inmate, who was not resisting or causing a threat, according to court documents.

In another incident, Patrick admitted that in March 2021, he shot pepper spray into the face of an inmate he thought was not responding quickly enough to an order to return to his cell, his plea agreement said.

After the inmate was on the floor and pinned down by other officers, Pauley repeatedly kicked and punched him in the jaw, and Pearce shot him with pepper spray, according to plea agreements.

The inmate had not acted in an aggressive manner, but Patrick wrote a report that falsely said the inmate had refused to go into his cell, cursed and threatened Patrick and concealed his hands, implying he had a weapon, according to the plea agreement.

Pauley kicked the inmate later when escorting him to another cell.

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Pauley admitted that in a separate incident in March 2021, he pulled an inmate to the floor and repeatedly hit him with his knee.

Pauley attacked the inmate to punish him for walking too slowly and for a prior non-violent violation of the rules, according to his plea agreement.

The inmate was not being aggressive before the assault and his hands and feet were restrained, but Pauley wrote a false report saying the inmate cursed at him, threatened him and raised up as if he was going to head-butt Pauley.

Pauleys plea agreement said he also lied to federal investigators about the details of one of the assaults.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Bureau of Prisons said Patrick is no longer employed by the agency. Pauley and Pearce still work at the prison.

The spokesperson declined to comment on how Pauleys guilty plea would affect his employment.

The charges the two pleaded guilty to are punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
The questions simple enough. How long do you want to stay? the hotel clerk asks Freddie, the 25-year-old French citizen of Korean descent checking in at the beginning of the low-keyed marvel that is Return to Seoul. Not sure, she says. A couple of weeks, maybe.

Given the name Frederique by her adoptive French parents, Freddie, played by Park Ji-min in a remarkable feature debut, has returned to Korea more or less on impulse. Across the 8-year span of the storyline, writer-director Davy Chou never seems to be dictating or signposting Freddies next move, or change in hairstyle, or emotional frame of mind. Rather, Return to Seoul unfolds as one of the rare movies that feels thoughtful and observant every minute, without tidy summations of feeling.

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It rightly has been described as an adoption story. Quickly ingratiating herself with the more demure hotel clerk, Tena (Guka Han), roughly her age, its clear Freddie has a way with easy and often temporary friendship, her easy-come, easy-go attitude masking a melancholy wariness. The topic of Freddies birthparents, whom she has not known since the first month of her life, comes up eventually, in between the new friends engagement in Seoul nightlife.

Freddie inquires with a Seoul adoption agency to learn something about the parents who put her up for adoption. She learns her birth name is Yeon-hee, which means docile and joyous. The slow-dawning, disbelieving smile with which this cool, guarded woman greets this information is perfect. Throughout Return to Seoul, Chou encourages every true and authentic performance impulse in the films crucial portrayal.

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In some ways, Chous film, his second feature, is procedural. Freddie, and the audience, learn she must contact her birthparents separately through the agency and wait to hear if theyre willing to meet. Without giving much away (the story is never dependent on twists or surprises), Freddie hears back initially from her father (Oh Kwang-rok, a veteran of many Park Chan-wooks films). Like his birth daughter, he drinks too much; with his now-wife and kids, he lives a life fueled by heartache. Now that Freddie has established contact, his heart hurts all the more. Freddie does not speak Korean; she is French, though her father wishes otherwise.

All the while, across several years, Freddies yearning to connect with her birth mother lingers like a phantom memory. Communication is not easy in this story; when she visits her father, Freddies aunt translates the often anguished expressions of regret the father wishes to share, while Freddies friend from Seoul, along for the trip, takes pains to tone down some of Freddies blunt rejoinders, in the name of Korean propriety and tradition.

Its a gorgeously photographed film, full of images of nocturnal Seoul and coastal South Korea we seldom see on screen. Cinematographer Thomas Favel treats the shape-shifting, identity-changing Freddie not as a glamorous cipher, but as a charismatic personality in constant flux, who leaves behind a fair amount of chaos wherever she goes. She returns to Seoul three times in Return to Seoul, and somehow it makes apt psychological sense that, by the end, she has changed her look again, along with giving up alcohol and red meat  while also having become an international arms dealer. (Her employer, a fellow Frenchman she meets in Seoul on the second of three returns, is played by Louis-Do de Lencquesaing.)

Park Ji-Min as Freddie in "Return to Seoul." (Thomas Favel /Sony Pictures Classics)

This is what makes Return to Seoul far richer than the average problem drama: It treats Freddie not as a problem to be solved, but as a peripatetic life to be followed. What begins as two weeks in another town, in search of the past Freddie never knew, becomes a reminder that there are feelings, longings, connections in life that remain not impossible, but certainly elusive, and precarious.

Filmmaker Chou, who worked closely with Park Ji-min as the script developed, was born in France to Cambodian-born parents. His relationship with his parents homeland, he has said, was similar to Freddies relationship with South Korea at the start of the film. Chou also has said he questioned my legitimacy to tell this story. He neednt have. Perhaps starting from that position of doubt led to the care, and the consistent, unexpected details, to be found everywhere in Return to Seoul.

Return to Seoul  3.5 stars

MPA rating: R (for brief drug use, nudity and language)

Running time: 1:58

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How to watch: Premieres March 3 at AMC River East and the Music Box Theatre

Michael Phillips is a Tribune critic.

mjphillips@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @phillipstribune
The days of a cautious OnePlus release cycle appear to be behind us. In January, the Oppo-owned mobile brand unveiled its new flagship, the OnePlus 11. Earlier this month, the 11R arrived, focused on the growing Indian smartphone market. These days, the company also offers last years 10T and 10 Pro, three budget Nord devices, five earbuds and a tablet. A new mechanical keyboard is on the way, along with some rumored foldables.

As a change of pace, the company showcased a product this week at MWC that will never see the light of day -- or at least not in its current form. As the name implies, the OnePlus 11 Concept is effectively a remix of the companys current flagship. The key differentiators, however, point to a company hoping to get more serious about mobile gaming. The gaming phone market has been something of a mixed bag, putting it mildly, and theres no clear indication that it will ever release such a device.

A more likely approach involves generational advances that make more serious gaming more plausible on the small screen. We will make a lot of efforts in research and design of the technology, OnePlus President and COO Kinder Liu told TechCrunch through a translator. But as for the commercial availability of these technologies, we will further analyze the market and the technologys maturity.

Image Credits: OnePlus

Liu explains that gauging consumer interest is one of the multiple reasons OnePlus went the automaker route with the unveiling of a liquid cooled handset. Also, we want to encourage continuous innovation inside our company, he adds.

OnePlus calls the new technology Active CryoFlux. A 0.2 square centimeter piezoelectric ceramic micropump moves the coolant up and down a pipeline near the rear of the device and around the massive camera array. The rear of the device is covered in a transparent material, showcasing the process as a kind of light show. Its a cool effect, and one that invariably shares comparisons to Phone (1), released by OnePlus co-founder Carl Peis Nothing last year.

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Given the recent stagnation of broader smartphone innovation, its probably inevitable that manufacturers are tweaking product design in new ways. Smartphone sales have slowed pretty much across the board, as well, leaving manufacturers looking for new avenues to jumpstart sales.

A lot of young people like playing games, says Liu. Gaming plays an important role in their digital life, and in the future, we will continuously improve their gaming experience. Currently, we definitely engage with our users about gaming development. We are talking about how to improve the gaming experience, and in the future, we believe we will have more time to talk to them.

Image Credits: OnePlus

Those conversations are a reference, in part, to the companys longstanding engagement with its user base. Community was a major factor in OnePlus growth from the outset, but many consumers have feared that being rolled into Chinese mobile giant Oppo has caused it to drift from that initial focus. A prime example are the original plans to merge OnePlus OxygenOS with Oppos Color OS. The company abandoned the move a year ago, following user backlash.

I think one thing can be improved, says Liu, and thats we need to have better communication with the outside world.

Is gaming the next frontier for device makers now that the initial 5G adoption bump has long since died out? Companies like ASUS, Nubia and Xiaomi are banking on it with the release of devices that center that experience. Giants like Samsung and Apple, on the other hand, seem content to simply make gaming more accessible on their flagship devices. OnePlus seems more likely to follow the latter path, but the phone maker has certainly surprised me before.
Peak Plastics report from Back to Blue

LONDON, UK --News Direct-- Economist Impact

LONDON, UK - Media OutReach - 27 February 2023 - Plastic consumption is on track to nearly double in the G20 by 2050 unless the United Nations agrees on a sweeping set of new global policies, including worldwide bans on some single-use plastic products, extended producer responsibility schemes and taxes on virgin plastic production, according to a new report.

The report, Peak Plastics: Bending the consumption curve, is the first study to forensically model the potential impact of policies being considered by United Nations plastic treaty negotiators. Plastics consumption across G20 countries will hit 451 million tonnes each year by 2050, nearly twice the 2019 level of 261 million tonnes, in a business-as-usual scenario, the study found.

The research comes from Back to Blue, an initiative of Economist Impact and The Nippon Foundation, and was supported by prominent authorities on plastic production, consumption and pollution including OECD, the World Bank, SYSTEMIQ, CSIR, and WWF. It also reveals that on our current trajectory countries will not reach peak plastic consumption this century: the tipping point after which plastic consumption begins to decline.

In March last year, 175 nations agreed to develop a legally binding global instrument to end plastic pollution: the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution. This historic treaty is being negotiated through a series of meetings across the globe and is expected to be in place by the end of 2024. Only policies at the most ambitious end of those under consideration will have a meaningful impact on a soaring plastic waste crisis, the Back to Blue research found.

Researchers for the report explored three policy approaches that have reached the advanced stages of the UN treatys negotiations, deemed by experts as those with the greatest potential to bring about peak plastic consumption.

These policies, which cover the entire lifecycle of plastic, from production to disposal, are a ban on problematic single-use plastic products; polluter pays Extended Producer Responsibility schemes for full end-of-life costs; and a tax on virgin plastic production  all fail to prevent a relentless rise in plastic consumption.

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Only a combination of these policies and bolder action, including possible restrictions on virgin plastic production, will bring about peak plastics and see consumption slow in the future. If the negotiators fail to agree on any policy interventions, the research projects that plastic consumption in the countries under study will nearly double by mid-century.

According to the report, a global ban on unnecessary single-use plastic (SUP) items is the most effective policy of those studied. However, even with a SUP ban in place, plastic consumption will still be 1.48 times higher in 2050 compared with the 2019 baseline.

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes will have a minimal effect on the consumption of single-use plastic products but it is still a vital part of the solution. If EPR schemes become mandatory in the countries under focus, plastic consumption would be 1.66 times higher in 2050 compared with 2019. This is barely lower than the baseline of 1.73 times if no policies are implemented.

Modelling shows the impact of a tax on virgin plastic resin will be limited and will still see consumption rise by 1.57 times by 2050. Taxes must be aggressive to be impactful, according to the research. In the absence of a tangible impact on plastic consumption by increasing taxes, the research suggests that negotiators should consider capping plastic production.

A combination of all three scenarios still leaves plastic consumption rising albeit at a slightly slower pace - 1.25 times higher in 2050 compared with 2019. The findings highlight the considerable possibility that the UN treaty will be too weak to bend the consumption curve downward.

To suppress plastic consumption at the scale needed, the report presents the need for measures and conditions so stringent that they are likely to encounter opposition from producers, retailers, industry bodies, consumer groups and other actors.

QUOTE 1: Negotiators of the UN plastics treaty must maintain the highest levels of ambition possible when entering the next round of negotiations, and industry needs to play a constructive, not obstructive, role in reaching a deal.

So far, commitments by industry, retailers and brands to reduce plastic waste are short on detail and have failed to materialise. We have to slow the soaring production of single-use plastic. Only a bold suite of legally-binding policies will result in plastic consumption peaking by mid-century.  Charles Goddard, editorial director, Economist Impact

QUOTE 2: Back to Blues research is a timely call for urgent, ambitious solutions to the plastic crisis. Plastic pollution extends beyond all borders, impacting the health of the ocean and natural environment. It will take global co-ordination to address the scope and scale of this issue. - Yohei Sasakawa, chairman of the Nippon Foundation.

QUOTE 3: "The urgency to reach peak plastic wasteand also peak production of disposable plasticsis crucial for preserving our planet and safeguarding our well-being. - Perinaz Bhada Tata, World Bank

QUOTE 4: "Proper plastic management is the biggest challenge facing us today. With mounting evidence that the world is generating more single-use plastics than ever before, the Back to Blue report plays a crucial role in identifying countries that are likely to become major sources of such waste. The report is also an essential guide to understand effective policy-making to address the plastics conundrum." - Aafrin Kidwai, Solid Waste India

QUOTE 5: "This report confirms that an urgent, global effort is needed to stop the flood of plastic pollution at its source. The entire lifecycle of plastics, from feedstock extraction and production of plastic precursors to disposal, must be addressed by the future, legally binding UN treaty to end plastic pollution. The policy levers examined in this report will not be sufficient: bolder action is needed, including globally coordinated tax mechanisms coupled with ambitious caps on virgin plastic production." David Azoulay, Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)

You can find the full report and data story here

Notes to Editors

Peak plastics is the tipping point after which plastic consumption begins to decline. Back to Blues modelling uses a quantitative forecasting methodology to predict at what point each country will reach a peak in its consumption of plastic.

Back to Blue selected three real-world policy scenarios that are already being implemented at various degrees globally: a ban on single-use plastic (SUP) products; a mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for industrial consumers; and a producer tax on virgin resin. These three policies are cited in the advance documentation for negotiators related to the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution.

The seven categories of polymers used in the model account for 80% of all plastic production. The objective is to test if plastic consumption will reach a peak, assuming that consumers, producers and policy makers understand the true cost of producing and using plastic products. We are assuming that some products, not only single-use plastic products, shift towards using substitute materials.

About Back to Blue

Back to Blue is an initiative launched by Economist Impact and The Nippon Foundation in 2021 to focus efforts on evidence-based approaches and solutions that tackle escalating ocean challenges, such as those posed by major threats such as climate change, pollution and habitat destruction. While governments and policymakers have begun efforts towards restoring biodiversity and regenerating ocean health, there remains an ostensible knowledge gap on plastic and chemical pollution. Recognising the need to stimulate fresh dialogue and solutions to pressing ocean issues, this multi-year initiative brings together both organisations unique capabilities in ocean research and programme-building to build a powerful platform which will accelerate momentum in improving ocean health. In 2021, the Plastic Management Index published under Back to Blue addressed the issue of marine plastic pollution. In 2022 the focus is on the less visible pollution from chemical contaminants that are damaging ocean life and ecosystems and in the long term, human health."

About Economist Impact

Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. We believe that evidence-based insights can open debate, broaden perspectives and catalyse progress. The services offered by Economist Impact previously existed within The Economist Group as separate entities, including EIU Thought Leadership, EIU Public Policy, EIU Health Policy, Economist Events, EBrandConnect and SignalNoise. We are building on a 75-year track record of analysis across 205 countries. Along with framework design, benchmarking, economic and social impact analysis, forecasting and scenario modelling, we provide creative storytelling, events expertise, design-thinking solutions and market-leading media products, making Economist Impact uniquely positioned to deliver measurable outcomes to our clients.

About The Nippon Foundation

Established in 1962, The Nippon Foundation is Japans largest philanthropic foundation, providing support to public-service activities in a variety of fields across national borders. In ocean affairs, the Foundation aims to cultivate human resources who will chart a course for the oceans future and to pass on the oceans riches to future generations. Other primary areas of activity include support for children, persons with disabilities, disaster relief, and international cooperation, with the ultimate goal of achieving a society where all people support one another.

Contact Details

Back to Blue

Media Contact

Backtoblue@browningenvironmental.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/only-a-bold-and-ambitious-un-treaty-can-stem-plastic-waste-crisis-696931202
 NV  ,         ,      

A year after the start of Russias full-scale invasion, the issue of a possible spring counter-offensive that will allow the Ukrainian Armed Forces to begin the liberation of the lands seized by the Russian invaders  including Crimea  has become much clearer. Western leaders also support the idea of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. However, the question of when Ukraine would be ready to launch an operation to liberate the occupied territories depends on the pace at which the West provides the military assistance Ukraine needs.

NV asked military experts about how many and what kind of weapons Ukraine will need to de-occupy its lands in three areas: the southeastern territories of the mainland, the Donbas, and the Crimean peninsula. We spoke to military expert Oleh Zhdanov, military expert and aviation history researcher Mikhail Zhirokhov, and military-political observer of the Information Resistance group Alexander Kovalenko.

De-occupation of the southeastern territories (parts of Zaporizhzhya, Mykolaiv, and Kherson Oblasts)

Almost all the experts interviewed by NV base their assessments on information from Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces General, Valery Zaluzhny, which he shared in December 2022 in an interview with the UK publication the Economist. At that time, the commander-in-chief said that in order to reach the borders of February 23, 2022, Ukraine needs 300 tanks, 600-700 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), and 500 howitzers. Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov subsequently clarified that Zaluzhny meant these figures to mean the needs of the Ukrainian Armed Forces to successfully conduct one specific operation. For the complete de-occupation of Ukrainian lands, the Minister of Defense said even more equipment and weapons are needed.

The experts NV spoke to believe that with this quantity of weapons, an offensive would be most promising in the southeastern direction of Ukraines mainland.

The amount of equipment detailed by Zaluzhny in December 2022 represents kit for about 10 mechanized brigades to carry out active counter-offensive operations. However, in comments to NV, military expert Zhdanov recalls that in September 2022, the commander-in-chief indicated in his article that 10-20 brigades worth of weapons would be required to create a counter-offensive force. That is, in fact, twice the number of weapons that Zaluzhny announced in December.

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Let's take the middle figure  we need to arm 15 brigades, suggests Zhdanov.

According to him, three or four of them should be tank brigades (300-400 tanks), with the remainder being mechanized and airborne brigades.

Zhdanov's opinion is shared by Zhirokhov. According to him, for a breakthrough that can cause Russian defenses to crumble and allow the Ukrainian Armed Forces to advance to the administrative border of occupied Crimea, they would need at least three tank brigades. That is 300 tanks.

But it is not just a question of tanks. For tank brigades to operate successfully, they need the help and cover of infantry fighting vehicles.

In fact, each tank brigade has two more mechanized or motorized infantry brigades of 120-150 infantry fighting vehicles, Zhirokhov points out.

Thus, for a successful operation to liberate the southeastern territories of the mainland of Ukraine, 720-900 infantry fighting vehicles would be needed.

Plus, this offensive would require at least two artillery brigades, says Zhirokhov, which according to his calculations, is about 220 more artillery pieces.

These figures are not maximums. According to Olexander Kovalenko from Information Resistance, calculations of the quantities of arms needed should start from what forces and assets the Russian invaders have on the most active fronts. Thus, he argues, there are now 30 battalion tactical groups (BTGs) of Russian invaders in Zaporizhzhya Oblast.

If we open the specification for the standard equipment of a battalion tactical group, explains Kovalenko, these are 11 tanks, 33 infantry fighting vehicles, multiple launch rocket systems, cannon artillery, mortar units, and so on.

Thus, for 30 BTGs, there need to be about 300 tanks, almost 1,000 infantry fighting vehicles,360 MLRS, 360 self-propelled artillery pieces and 180 mortars.

However, according to Kovalenko's estimates, the invaders' 30 BTGs in Zaporizhzhya Oblast can hardly be considered full-fledged, since they are currently not fully supplied either in terms of equipment or personnel. In addition, there are problems with ammunition and logistics.

Given this, Kovalenko poses the question: If they have this composition and that situation, then do we need to have the same number of battalion tactical groups for a counter-offensive, especially if our armored personnel carriers are better?

He answers himself, saying, it is not necessary to have a quantitative advantage, but it is enough to have a technical, technological and qualitative advantage. And according to Kovalenko, the Ukrainian Armed Forces now have such an advantage in some bridgeheads.

Read also: Liberating Melitopol would unlock further opportunities for Ukrainian military, military expert says

In his December interview with the Economist, General Zaluzhny said that in order to get to the borders of Crimea, it is necessary to cover the 84 kilometer distance to occupied Melitopol.

This is enough for us, because Melitopol would give us full fire control over the ground corridor, because from it we can already fire at the Crimean Isthmus, with...HIMARS and so on, Zaluzhny said of the situation last December.

The Russian military command is now doing everything it can to create a fortified area from Melitopol, so Kovalenko warns that enemy BTGs are most concentrated in the Vasilyevka-Tokmak-Melitopol triangle. Given this, Zhdanov predicts that the best direction for a counteroffensive would be to split the Russian forces in half in the southeast with access to the Sea of Azov.

It doesnt matter in what place, Zhdanov explains, adding perhaps it would even be necessary to reach the coast without hitting the cities of Berdyansk or Mariupol.

All the better, according to Zhdanov, is to reach somewhere between them. This is dictated, first of all, by the desire to avoid a major confrontation with the enemy. At the same time, access to the Azov coast solves a number of key issues necessary to defeat Russia and actually nullifies all of Putin's achievements in the region.

The Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant would be in a deep encirclement of our troops, as would the Kakhovka Hydro Plant, Zhdanov explains regarding the advantages of access to the Sea of Azov.

And in this case, he argues, the Ukrainian Armed Forces would not even have to storm these facilities, because the enemy garrisons located there are unlikely to last long without logistics, supplies, ammunition, and food.

In addition, access to the Azov coast means the elimination of the land corridor to Crimea, Zhdanov emphasizes.

The liberated of Crimea

The liberation of the Ukrainian peninsula could be the next step in the liberation of the occupied territories. Thus, almost all the experts interviewed by NV are convinced that the destruction of the Crimean Bridge is a prerequisite for the de-occupation of Crimea, followed by a logistical blockade of the peninsula. When the Ukrainian Armed Forces arrive at the coast of the Sea of Azov, this condition will be met, since the bridge connecting Russian territory with occupied Crimea will be under fire control of Ukrainian forces, enabling the Armed Forces to launch an operation to deplete Russian forces on the peninsula.

Read also: Ukrainian intel officer reveals plans to liberate Crimea

Thus, Informational Resistances Kovalenko believes that the most effective scenario for the liberation of the occupied peninsula would be not a direct counter-offensive operation, but a plan analogous to the liberation of Snake Island and right-bank Kherson Oblast.

Kovalenko suggests that the de-occupation of Crimea could be achieved by a long-term, gradual and systematic destruction of all of the Russian invaders assets on the peninsula.

At the same time, one of the tasks, in his opinion, is to keep Crimea in a complete blockade for as long as possible and thus either force the invaders army to sail away from there, or to leave it so exhausted that it cannot resist when a full-fledged counter-offensive operation begins on the peninsula.

Zhirokhov and Zhdanov support this idea of a logistical blockade. Zhdanov adds that the Ukrainian Armed Forces could also add a maritime component to this by using seaborne drones.

True, they can only be used on the high seas, because after one drone attack, protective nets were installed in Sevastopol, and the effectiveness of these drones fell sharply, explains Zhdanov.

However, in his opinion, if Ukraine receives missiles with a 300-500 km range, then it will beable to fight the remnants of Russias Black Sea Fleet. And striking the base in Novorossiysk will remove the problem of the Russian fleet in the Black Sea from the agenda.

At the same time, Zhirokhov believes that the liberation of Crimea will most likely take place not by military means, but rather by political ones.

Our Western allies are saying that an offensive in Crimea could provoke Putin into using tactical nuclear weapons  this is exactly the red line that Western countries are trying not to cross, Zhirokhov explains.

At least for now.

Read also: No peace without liberation of Crimea, Zelenskyy says

However, Kovalenko and Zhdanov believe that Russia no longer has any red lines, and doubt that even the destruction of the Crimean bridge will provoke Russian dictator Vladimir Putin into using nuclear weapons.

Look at the behavior of our partner countries, says Zhdanov.

They are no longer afraid of Putins reaction.

Even the dictator's defiant proclamation that Russia was suspending participation in the New START arms control agreement did not cause much reaction in the world.

Therefore, grabbing the nuclear baton and waving it around no longer gives Putin the privileges it did six months ago, he argues.

Liberation of Donbas (parts of Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts)

The liberation of occupied Donbas, according to NVs experts, will perhaps be Ukrainian defenders most difficult task. First of all, Donbas shares a border with Russia, and therefore will have a direct supply of Russian troops. This means that more weapons will be needed on this front.

If 300 tanks marching across the steppes of the south is one thing, then the Donetsk region and urban developments are completely different, Zhirokhov told NV.

Therefore, he believes that an operation to liberate this territory will require not 300, but 400-500 tanks.

Zhirokhov also believes that the Ukrainian military is trying to get away from the practice of fighting in cities.

We know the example of Mariupol, the expert recalls, when the Russians had an advantage in the air and in everything else for three months.

Given this, the Ukrainians understand that an attempt to take any city in street battles will cost lives and materiel. Therefore, according to Zhirokhov, they will most likely avoid this and choose a different strategy.

For his part, Kovalenko doubts that it makes sense to talk about some kind of counteroffensive in Donetsk Oblast any time soon.

For a long time, it will be a defense-type springboard, where we will conduct defense, he believes.

According to his calculations, Donetsk Oblast is host to the largest number of combat-ready and more or less completed enemy BTGs, with almost 40 deployed there. This includes almost 450 tanks, 1,300 infantry fighting vehicles, 480 MLRS, 480 self-propelled artillery pieces, and 240 mortars.

In the Luhansk region, according to Kovalenko, as well as in Zaporizhzhya Oblast, there are now up to 30 BTGs which may include approximately 300 tanks, almost 1,000 infantry fighting vehicles, 360 MLRS, 360 self-propelled artillery mounts, and 180 mortars.

At the same time, the situation in the Luhansk Oblast seems more promising to Kovalenko. However, it will be possible to talk about the prospects of moving against it only after the Russians' fiasco of an attempted offensive concludes, after which a Ukrainian counter-offensive will begin. This is how Kovalenko sees the conditions for the liberation of Luhansk Oblast. And he adds that the liberation of Donbas could take place almost simultaneously with the liberation of Crimea.

At the same time, Zhdanov believes that, along with the gradual entry of Ukrainian troops into Crimea and the de-occupation of the territories of the peninsula, holding Donbas will start to lose its significance for the Russian dictator Putin and become unjustifiable.

How long it will take

According to Zhdanov, with an appropriate amount of weapons and an uninterrupted supply of ammunition, the liberation of the occupied territories could take from one to three months.

He explains this rather minimal period by the fact that a breakthrough in one of these counter-offensives could cause a fatal collapse of all Russian defenses, leading to panic and flight by Russian military personnel. And as an example, he cites the flight of Russian invaders from Kharkiv Oblast in the fall of 2022.

If the Russian commanders manage to keep the situation under control and they mount a fighting retreat, then it could take up to three months, or even more, Zhdanov said.

However, Zhirokhov and Kovalenko forecast it taking more time. So, according to Zhirokhov, the most optimistic scenario for the liberation of the occupied territories could be implemented in two months. And in the most pessimistic scenario, even if counter-offensive actions begin in early March, de-occupation could be delayed until the end of 2023.

For his part, Kovalenko claims that the active phase of the war will not end this year, but will continue into 2024. It is there that the main achievements and victories await Ukraine.

Regarding hostilities in 2024, we are talking about the liberation of Crimea and the territories of the Luhansk and Donetsk Oblasts occupied since 2014, he explains.

But be that as it may, Zhdanov believes that, judging by the more decisive statements of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the last Ramstein meeting, which had the consistent theme of providing Ukraine with the weapons it needs as soon as possible, Kyiv has been de-facto given the task of de-occupying its territories.

And this is a direct path to our victory, he says.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The coalition successfully ran an initiative in 2018 which restored voting rights to over a million non-violent felons in Florida.

The Florida Rights Restoration Coalition has earned a Nobel Peace Prize nomination for launching a campaign to restore voting rights to felons in the state, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

The coalition successfully ran an initiative in 2018 called Amendment 4 which restored voting rights to an estimated 1.4 million non-violent felons in Florida, theGrio previously reported. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill a year later that prohibited the formerly incarcerated from casting ballots unless all their court-related debts were paid off.

(Photo: AdobeStock.com)

This prompted the FRRC to raise $30 million to help 40,000 people across Florida regain their voting eligibility, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

American Friends Service Committee nominated the FRRC for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition for their work in building democracy, supporting the human right to representation by government, and working towards a better organized and peaceful world, the committee said in a statement.

The FRRC also received a nomination from Quaker Peace and Social Witness. This group, along with American Friends Service Committee, successfully nominated the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. for the Peace Prize in 1964, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

The Nobel Peace Prize is the highest recognition that any individual organization could receive in the world, said Desmond Meade, executive director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, at a news conference in Orlando on Friday.

Desmond Meade speaks onstage during LIVE FREE USA Turns 10: Creating Safer Neighborhoods Under The Direction Of Pastor Mike McBride at Ciel Creative Space on Nov. 9, 2021, in Berkeley, California. (Photo by Kelly Sullivan/Getty Images)

The Orlando Sentinel reports that Meade battled a cocaine addiction while in the military, which led to drug and firearm charges in 2001. He ultimately turned his life around and earned a law degree. Decades would pass before he voted for the first time in 2019. The state clemency board restored his full civil rights in 2021.

Meades advocacy and civil rights work have earned numerous awards, honors and accolades, including a MacArthur Fellowship genius grant that came with a $625,000 prize. Additionally, his work with the FRRC earned him an appearance on Time magazines Time 100.

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Meade said the Nobel Peace Prize nomination highlights the power of second chances, noting at the news conference that even though people like me have made mistakes in the past, theres still an opportunity for us to be contributing members of society, he said.

Neil Volz, the FRRC deputy director, said a lot of grassroots individuals are going to be seen because of this nomination.

In October, Nobel prizes will be announced, including the Peace Prize. Winners reportedly receive about $1 million.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Orlando advocacy group nominated for Nobel Peace Prize appeared first on TheGrio.
Khmelnytskyi mayor spokes about the consequences of the Shahed drone strike

Three explosions were reported as a consequence of the attack, damaging a number of buildings.

Read also: More than 5,000 houses destroyed in Kharkiv by Russians, says mayor

According to the Ukraine's military General Staff, Russia launched 14 Shahed drones against Ukraine in the attack. 11 were intercepted.

Explosions were also reported around Kyiv itself, as well as Kyiv and Chernihiv oblasts  believed to have been a result of air defense systems.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistani police arrested Monday a retired army general and prominent supporter of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on charges of inciting the public and government employees against national institutions, officials said.

The charge against retired Gen. Amjad Shoaib, which carries a seven-year sentence, came after he appeared on Pakistani BOL news channel on Saturday criticizing authorities for keeping Khans supporters jailed, especially in remote areas of the country.

They were arrested amid Khans latest campaign dubbed fill the jail cells with detainees  or jail bharo in Urdu  as a way to pressure the government into holding early elections.

Last Wednesday in the former premier's hometown of Lahore and some other urban areas, Khans supporters protested, hopped into police vans and posed for cameras, taunting police to arrest them en masse and defying a ban on rallies.

Police mostly stayed back but at least 200 Khan supporters were arrested in different places in eastern Punjab province and elsewhere, as Khan's supporters had aimed for.

In his TV appearance, Shoaib allegedly urged civil servants to refuse to do their duties. The charge against him claims Shoaib's remarks were part of a planned conspiracy" to weaken the country. Shoaib does not hold any office in Khans party.

Fawad Chaudhry, a senior leader from Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf opposition party, condemned the arrest of the 80-year-old Shoaib, saying such actions would bring nothing but more hatred and anxiety."

Shahbaz Sharif replaced Khan as prime minister after the former cricket star turned Islamist politician was ousted in a no-confidence vote in Parliament in April 2022.

Since then, Khan  who has claimed his ouster was a conspiracy backed by the U.S.  has been seeking early elections. Washington and Sharif have denied Khan's claims and Sharif has rejected calls for early elections, saying the vote would be held as planned later this year.

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Sharif's government has struggled with lingering political instability but also a surge in militant attacks and violence over the past months across the country.

On Monday, suspected militants killed four workers and wounded three others at a coal mine in southwestern Pakistan, according to police official Syed Akbar. No one claimed responsibility for the attack in Harnai, a district in restive Baluchistan province that is home to most of the region's coal mines.

Separately, a shootout left two soldiers and two militants dead following a raid in North Waziristan, a district in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the military said. Waziristan was a base for the Pakistani Taliban until the army claimed to have cleared the region of insurgents. However, attacks have continued, raising concerns the Pakistani Taliban are regrouping there.

___

Associated Press writer Abdul Sattar contributed to this story from Quetta, Pakistan.
An American citizen was killed in the West Bank on Monday amid ongoing violence in the region, according to U.S. officials.

The American was killed when a Palestinian gunman opened fire near the West Bank city of Jericho on Monday, hours after Israel deployed hundreds more soldiers to the occupied West Bank amid escalating tensions.

On Sunday, after a Palestinian gunman killed two Israeli brothers, a large group of settlers torched Palestinian homes and cars in the West Bank city of Hawara. One Palestinian was killed in those attacks and dozens were wounded, according to medics and the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

Israeli security forces cordon-off the site of a reported shooting attack, near Jericho in the occupied West Bank, February 27, 2023. / Credit: AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP/Getty

"We condemn the horrific killing of two Israeli brothers near Nablus, and the killing today of an Israeli near Jericho who we understand was also an American citizen," State Department spokesman Ned Price said during a briefing Monday. "We express our deepest condolences to all of the victims' families and their loved ones."

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides tweeted on Monday that a U.S. citizen was killed "in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight."

"I pray for his family," Nides wrote.

Israeli security forces cordon-off the site of a reported shooting attack, near Jericho in the occupied West Bank, February 27, 2023. / Credit: AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP/Getty

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealed for calm in response to the violence on Sunday, saying: "I ask that when blood is boiling and the spirit is hot, don't take the law into your hands."

The leader of Israel's opposition Labor Party called the rampage by settlers Sunday "a pogrom by armed militias," The Associated Press reported.

Israeli security forces cordon-off the site of a reported shooting attack, near Jericho in the occupied West Bank, February 27, 2023. / Credit: AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP/Getty

Sunday's violence began when a Palestinian gunman shot and killed two brothers from a nearby settlement  Yagel and Hillel Yaniv  while they were in the West Bank town of Hawara. The shooter fled the scene.

What's behind the escalating violence and protests in Israel?

Groups of Israeli settlers then set fires and threw stones along a main road in Hawara, torching dozens of cars and buildings.

One Palestinian man, Sameh Hamdallah Mahmoud Aqtash, was killed by an Israeli gunshot Sunday, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said. His brother said he was shot by an Israeli soldier, but the IDF denied this, according to CBS News partner network BBC News.

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Palestinians inspect damaged building and scorched cars in the town of Hawara, near the West Bank city of Nablus. / Credit: Nasser Ishtayeh/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

"They didn't leave anything. They even threw tear gas bombs," Sultan Farouk Abu Sris, a store owner in Hawara, told the AP about the settler mob violence. "It's destruction. They came bearing hatred."

"My mother moved us to a corner because there was no safe place," 10-year-old Lamar Abusarees told the Reuters news agency. "They broke all the windows while we were inside."

The area of the West Bank where the rampage took place is under full Israeli control, and some Palestinians criticized the Israeli authorities for not protecting them from the settlers, BBC News reported.

Ammar Demadi stands in his burned house after settlers rioted and set houses and cars on fire in the village of Hawara, in the occupied West Bank, February 27, 2023. / Credit: Amir Levy/Getty

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said he held the Israeli government responsible for "the terrorist acts carried out by Israeli settlers, under the protection of the Israeli occupation forces," according to the BBC.

Despite another member of his ultra-right-wing party praising the violence as a deterrent for future Palestinian attacks, ultra-nationalist National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said "I understand the hard feelings, but this isn't the way. We can't take the law into our hands," the AP reported.

Over the weekend, the Jordanian government hosted talks between Israeli and Palestinian officials aimed at curbing violence that has escalated for weeks ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which begins in late March.

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The best self-care gifts to give in 2023 include bath bombs, a weighted blanket and a scented candle.

 Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Let's be honest, most of us could use a little more relaxation and self-care in our lives. A special holiday or birthday is not needed to pamper yourself or a loved one, so it's time to make self-care a priority. Perhaps your mom, sister or best friend has been stressed out or going through a rough season and could use a little extra TLC, so Reviewed is here to help.

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From a salon-quality mani from Olive & June, to an Ivation foot spa or even a Mysa wine subscription (yes, a glass or two of vino can be considered a form of self-care), we've rounded up 20 useful self-care gift ideas to bring instant calm to anyone who is stressed out. As you're shopping for a loved one, we strongly suggest you also treat yourself to any of these relaxation gifts. Trust us, you deserve it!

The best gifts for women: 50 best gift ideas for women in 2023

1. LifeAround2Angels Bath bombs

Mother's Day gifts for new moms: LifeAround2Angels

A set of our favorite bath bombs is a good way to decompress after a hectic week. The top-rated LifeAround2Angels Bath Bombs Set comes with 12 fizzy, colorful and moisturizing bombs and has more than 40,000 overwhelmingly positive reviews on Amazon, with many claiming they're just good as the more expensive Lush bath bombs. We loved their pleasant scents and how they didn't stain our bathtubs as most other bath bombs do.

$27 at Amazon

2. Jojowell Shower Steamers

Best self-care gifts

If they prefer showers, consider these pure essential oil shower bombs. Seven pleasant scents such as lavender, rose, grapefruit and eucalyptus are included in this Jojowell aromatherapy gift set. To enjoy this relaxing aromatherapy, simply place a tablet on the shower floor away from the heavy stream and allow the shower steamers to release their natural essential oils.

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$26 at Amazon

3. Royal Craft Luxury Bathtub Caddy Tray

Best self-care gifts: Royal Craft bath tray

If she loves taking long, relaxing baths then she'll absolutely adore one of our favorite bath trays. This Royal Craft Luxury Bathtub Caddy is made from natural bamboo, expands to fit across any tub and features all the compartments needed to store a phone, a candle, even a glass of wine and more.

$51 at Amazon

4. Ivation Foot Spa massager

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day

You could gift a heated Shiatsu Neck Massager to someone with a sore neck, but those who are in the most need of relaxation tend to spend a lot of time on their feet. This is why the Ivation Foot Spa massager is a highly recommended self-care gift that is also good for the sole. This baby is fully loaded with features like water jets, adjustable heat and massage rollers which is no wonder why it also proved to be the best overall foot massager we tested.

$90 at Amazon

5. Emu Australia Slippers

Best self-care gifts: Emu Australia slippers

Slippers are a quintessential cozy gift to give to your wife. Emu Australia Mayberry slippers made our list of best slippers for women because not only are they super stylish but they'll keep her feet warm without overheating and are made with plenty of plush shearling. If she prefers her toes fully covered, I love the Joy Teddy, which is made from soft, cozy wool and keeps my feet warm and comfy all day.

Mayberry $70 at Emu Australia

Joy Teddy $90 at Emu Australia

6. The Five Minute Journal

Best self-care gifts for Valentine's Day

Journaling is a great way to monitor or document your self-care routine. The Five Minute Journal features a linen cover and recycled pages and includes daily writing prompts, weekly challenges, inspirational quotes and more. Plus, there's no added pressure to write something every day because the pages are do not include dates, so you can pick up where you left off at any time.

$29 at Amazon

7. Mzoo Sleep Mask

Best self-care gifts: Mzoo Sleep Mask

We could all use a little more sleep, but for the girlfriend who really values her beauty rest, you can equip her with the best sleep mask we've ever tested. We found Mzoo's Sleep Mask to block out light, avoid pressure on the eyeballs and liked that its strap was adjustable and stretchy.

$18 at Amazon

8. Saje Aroma Om Essential Oil Diffuser

Best self-care gifts: Saje Aroma Om

Do they come home frazzled after a long day? If so, an essential oil diffuser will make a great gift to help them unwind after a stressful day. The Saje Aroma Om is our favorite essential oil diffuser thanks to its high quality materials and cool design. It can run a relaxing scent like Serenity or a cheerful scent like Liquid Sunshine for up to six hours, so there's plenty of time to exhale.

$98 at Saje

9. Gaiam Premium Yoga Mat

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day

Give the gift of "namaste" with the best value yoga mat we've ever tested. The premium, extra thick non-slip mat gives the perfect amount of cushion, and the textured surface makes for a good grip. A few things to love about this yoga mat are that it's lightweight, PVC free and comes in so many colors and pretty prints to choose from. It's also great quality for the price. I've had my Gaiam mat for years and it's still in great shape. (To be honest, I rarely do yoga, but it's also used by my kids as a gymnastics mat.)

$31 at Amazon

10. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Moisturize your lips with this lip mask from Laneige.

The Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask is a cult-favorite product that makes for a sweet little self-care gift, especially for a beauty lover. The nourishing formula made with shea butter, coconut oil and vitamin C hydrates lips overnight so they wake up with soft and luscious lips every morning.

$24 at Sephora

11. Murad Vita-C Triple Exfoliating Facial

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day: Murad Vita-C Triple Exfoliating Facial

Its hard to think of a better self-care gift than a luxurious spa facial, but what if you could get similar results, right from home? Feel and look fresh from the spa in less than 10 minutes with the Vita-C Triple Exfoliating Facial from Murad. The formula contains Vitamin C (known to brighten skin), exfoliators to scrub away dead skin cells and it works on all skin types. It has a delightful scent, can be used up to three times per week and leaves skin feeling smooth and looking radiant.

$76 at Amazon

12. Anthropologie candle

Capri Blues Volcano scented candles are a long-standing favorite at Anthropologie.

Give a whiff of relaxation with the Capri Blue Volcano Jar Candle, which we love at Reviewed. Not only does the scent smell amazing, but the chic jars double as pretty home decor. Anthropologie sells tons of styles for Capri Blue candles to fit any aesthetic. They'll look and smell perfect in any room of the house.

$36 at Anthropologie

13. Jo Malone Cologne

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day: Jo Malone

To feel good, you need to smell good, right? If you agree, then Jo Malone's Nectarine Blossom and Honey Cologne is the perfect perfume choice. It's a light fragrance that smells like a fresh, citrusy and slightly sweet summer breeze. I've been wearing it for years and always receive compliments on the scent, which is not overpowering and only takes a spritz here and a dab there to smell lovely all day. Fair warning if the person you're gifting is shy: People will want to sniff them.

From $80 at Sephora

14. Beekman 1802 gift set

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day: Beekman 1802.

Beekman 1802 is best known for its use of a unique ingredient that's been hailed as a holy-grail beauty secret for centuries: goats milk. We tested out this buzz-worthy brand and found that it totally lived up to the hypeeach product we tested had an amazing scent and felt nourishing and calming on the skin. We love a good gift basket and this gift set from 1-800-Baskets includes goat milk hand cream, cuticle cream and two bar soaps, perfect for anyone who's skin could use a little extra TLC.

$45 at 1-800-Baskets

15. Nuzzie Knit Weighted Blanket

Self care and relaxation gifts: Weighted blanket

When you're alone and need a warm hug, a weighted blanket might be the best alternative. For a fantastic budget option you could gift the YnM Weighted Blanket, but if you're looking to splurge a bit, the Nuzzie Full Knit Weighted Blanket is one of our favorite weighted blankets for how it's knit texture makes it a bit cooler and more appealing than most other weighted blankets. It is a bit bulkier than others we tested, but it is machine-washable, comes in 15-, 20-, and 25-pound options in addition to an 8-pound version for kids, plus with eight colors to choose from it's easy to find the perfect match.

$249 at Amazon

16. Olive & June Mani System

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day

People are busy and dont always have time to schedule an appointment at a nail salon. The At Home Mani System from Olive & June includes everything needed to feel like you just got your nails done by a pro. The set includes clippers, a file, buffer, polish remover, cuticle serum and my personal favorite, the poppy, which is a silicone accessory for the nail polish bottle, making it easier to paint with your less dominant hand. The nail polish, which comes in so many beautiful shades, is free from the seven major toxins found in most nail polishesand in my experience, the polish lasts longer with less chipping than other popular brands.

From $55 at Olive  June

17. Mysa wine subscription

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day

If you or your giftee like to occasionally wind down with a glass (or two, don't judge) of wine, then a wine subscription gift is going to score you major points. You'll feel even better about gifting a wine subscription from Mysa, because they only sell high quality natural wines, which means organic grapes and less additives. We tried out the wine club and found Mysa to be the best natural wine service with a fantastic selection to choose from and excellent customer service. Red, white or rose, wine delivered to your door is a winning gift.

From $85 per month at Mysa

18. Magnolia Bakery

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day

Sometimes self-care means indulging in a comforting treat. Magnolia Bakery is famous for their banana pudding and we can tell you it is Worth. The. Hype. Fresh bananas are layered with a ton of sweet vanilla wafers and the creamiest, fluffiest vanilla pudding for a gift we can really sink our teeth into.

From $58 at Magnolia Bakery

19. Recess Mood Calming Beverage

Best self-care Valentine's Day gifts: Recess

For someone who likes to unwind with a beverage but doesn't like the effects of alcohol, a mood-boosting mocktail from Recess is a giftable option. The zero-proof sparkling water features magnesium and adaptogens(plants and herbs that can reduce stress)designed to help you feel calm and relaxed. The beverage comes in refreshing flavors like Black Cherry and Blood Orange, are low in sugar and make a perfect weeknight mocktail.

From $33 for a 12-pack at Amazon

20. Nespresso VertuoPlus

10 of the best self-care gifts for Mom this Mother's Day: Nespresso VertuoPlus

For many of us, self-care starts first thing in the morning with the help of a little, or a lot, of coffee. Say bye-bye to the barista and hello to the Nespresso VertuoPlus to make the perfect, frothy cup of coffee that can only be described (by me) as "heaven in a mug". This versatile machine, which topped our list of best single-serve coffee makers also comes with a starter set of capsules in a variety of flavors (my personal favorites are Vanilla Custard Pie and Melozio), and if your giftee needs an extra caffeine kick, it also makes single and double espresso. Add a top-rated coffee mug like this marbled ceramic mug and your giftee will have a full cup as well as a full heart.

$190 at Amazon

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

This article originally appeared on Reviewed: 20 best self-care, calming and relaxation gifts
PANAMA CITY BEACH  A local barbecue restaurant and brewing company are raising funds for HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospitals Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with upscale dining event.

Back Beach Barbecue and Idyll Hounds Brewing Co. announced they are teaming up to host a beer dinner event, which is a multi-course upscale barbecue complete with exclusive beer pairings. The event will take place at Back Beach Barbecue, 19714 Panama City Beach Parkway, on March 2.

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Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the restaurant will be closed for the private dining experience featuring a five-course meal prepared by Back Beach Barbecue pitmaster Shane Kirkland. All proceeds will benefit Panama Citys HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospitals NICU, a cause with close personal ties to Kirkland.

Back Beach Barbecue and Idyll Hounds Brewing Company are teaming up to host a beer dinner to raise funds for HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital's NICU on March 2.

Last year, Kirkland and his wife, Heather, who is also an employee at Back Beach Barbecue, welcomed twin boys, Ezra and Isaiah. They were born premature and had to stay in the NICU because they struggled to eat on their own and had issues with bilirubin levels and caloric intake.

The only thing that made this horrible situation the best possible was the staff at HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital NICU, Kirkland said. They loved us and our babies as if they were their own.

The Kirklands said the nurses would hold their babies, love on them, take pictures, dress them in matching clothes, make crafts to decorate their room and anything else one would expect from family. After three weeks, their boys were discharged, and the family left feeling grateful for the care they received from HCA Florida Gulf Coast Hospital.

Last year, Shane and Heather Kirkland welcomed twin boys Ezra and Isaiah and who were cared for at HCA Florida Gulf Coast NICU in Panama City.

We've been home for about nine months now, and we are forever friends with the staff members, and still make regular visits to see our NICU family who treated, loved and genuinely cared for our Ezra and Isaiah, they said.

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The funds raised from the dinner will go toward the purchase of clothing, supplies and a specialized camera system in the NICU that will allow families to check in and observe their premature infants at any time.

Each course will be accompanied by a specially selected beer by the local Idyll Hounds Brewing. Kirkland has created a menu featuring specialty meats and seafood, including oysters, duck breast, shrimp and elk. The meal concludes with a smoke-infused dessert.

Tickets for the dinner are $100 per person and can be purchased by calling the restaurant at 850-249-0822. For more information or the full menu, visit Facebook.com/BackBeachBarbecue.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Barbecue restaurant to host beer dinner to benefit NICU in Panama City
Former House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) said he will not attend the Republican National Conference (RNC) if former President Trump wins the partys presidential nomination in 2024.

In an interview with WISN-TV, Ryan said that he would only attend the RNC, which will be held in Ryans home state in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, if someone other than Trump was nominated.

It depends on who the nominee is. Ill be here if its someone not named Trump, he told WISN-TV on Saturday, adding he would even skip the event if it was in his home state.

Im not interested in participating in that, no. Even in Wisconsin, he added.

Ryan announced the results naming Trump as the Republican nominee in 2016, when he was the chair of the RNC convention.

Ryan, a former vice presidential candidate for now-Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah), also said Saturday that he does not think Trump will be the nominee in 2024.

The reason I dont think hell be our nominee is because we now were going to lose with him, he said. He cost us the House in 18, he lost the White House in 20, he cost us the Senate in 20, he cost us the Senate again in 2022, and he cost us probably a good dozen House seats in 2022. This is a lesson we dont need to repeat again.

Ryan declined to back any of the other potential contenders, but said he believed Republicans could win back the White House with a non-Trump nominee.

Trump ripped Ryan in a social media post on Sunday.

Paul Ryan is a loser, Mitt Romney could have won without him. I won twice, did much better the second time, and was 233 Wins out of 253 Races in the Midterms. Paul Ryan is destroying Fox, and couldnt get elected dogcatcher in the Republican Party! he posted.

Since leaving Congress in 2019, Ryan has been a consistent critic of Trump, while also serving on the board of Fox News parent company and as vice chairman of Teneo, a public relations and CEO advisory firm.

In October, Ryan said Trumps unelectability will be palpable before the 2024 presidential election, predicting that Republicans would choose a different nominee.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(Reuters) - Portfolio, the business imprint of the world's largest book publisher Penguin Random House, will not publish Scott Adams' book "Reframe Your Brain", the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, days after a racist rant by the "Dilbert" cartoon creator.

The publisher did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment, while Adams could not be reached.

On his YouTube channel last week, Adams called Black Americans a "hate group" and suggested white Americans "get the hell away from Black people" in response to a conservative organization's poll purporting to show that many African Americans do not think it's OK to be white.

Many U.S. newspapers dropped the 'Dilbert' cartoon in response and the rant ignited a furor on social media.

Portfolio has published books by Adams before, including "How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big".

Meanwhile, billionaire Elon Musk, responding to newspapers dropping the cartoon, said the U.S. media was racist.

"For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now theyre racist against whites & Asians. Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America," Musk tweeted on Sunday.

"Maybe they can try not being racist."

(Reporting by Eva Mathews in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel)
Pentamaster Corporation Berhad (KLSE:PENTA) last week reported its latest annual results, which makes it a good time for investors to dive in and see if the business is performing in line with expectations. It looks like the results were a bit of a negative overall. While revenues of RM601m were in line with analyst predictions, statutory earnings were less than expected, missing estimates by 7.2% to hit RM0.12 per share. The analysts typically update their forecasts at each earnings report, and we can judge from their estimates whether their view of the company has changed or if there are any new concerns to be aware of. With this in mind, we've gathered the latest statutory forecasts to see what the analysts are expecting for next year.

See our latest analysis for Pentamaster Corporation Berhad

After the latest results, the ten analysts covering Pentamaster Corporation Berhad are now predicting revenues of RM696.0m in 2023. If met, this would reflect a decent 16% improvement in sales compared to the last 12 months. Statutory earnings per share are predicted to surge 33% to RM0.15. In the lead-up to this report, the analysts had been modelling revenues of RM714.6m and earnings per share (EPS) of RM0.16 in 2023. So it looks like the analysts have become a bit less optimistic after the latest results announcement, with revenues expected to fall even as the company is supposed to maintain EPS.

The consensus has reconfirmed its price target of RM5.20, showing that the analysts don't expect weaker sales expectations next year to have a material impact on Pentamaster Corporation Berhad's market value. Fixating on a single price target can be unwise though, since the consensus target is effectively the average of analyst price targets. As a result, some investors like to look at the range of estimates to see if there are any diverging opinions on the company's valuation. The most optimistic Pentamaster Corporation Berhad analyst has a price target of RM6.40 per share, while the most pessimistic values it at RM4.00. There are definitely some different views on the stock, but the range of estimates is not wide enough as to imply that the situation is unforecastable, in our view.

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These estimates are interesting, but it can be useful to paint some more broad strokes when seeing how forecasts compare, both to the Pentamaster Corporation Berhad's past performance and to peers in the same industry. It's clear from the latest estimates that Pentamaster Corporation Berhad's rate of growth is expected to accelerate meaningfully, with the forecast 16% annualised revenue growth to the end of 2023 noticeably faster than its historical growth of 9.2% p.a. over the past five years. Other similar companies in the industry (with analyst coverage) are also forecast to grow their revenue at 13% per year. Pentamaster Corporation Berhad is expected to grow at about the same rate as its industry, so it's not clear that we can draw any conclusions from its growth relative to competitors.

The Bottom Line

The most important thing to take away is that there's been no major change in sentiment, with the analysts reconfirming that the business is performing in line with their previous earnings per share estimates. Sadly, they also downgraded their sales forecasts, but the business is still expected to grow at roughly the same rate as the industry itself. Even so, earnings are more important to the intrinsic value of the business. There was no real change to the consensus price target, suggesting that the intrinsic value of the business has not undergone any major changes with the latest estimates.

Keeping that in mind, we still think that the longer term trajectory of the business is much more important for investors to consider. We have estimates - from multiple Pentamaster Corporation Berhad analysts - going out to 2025, and you can see them free on our platform here.

That said, it's still necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Pentamaster Corporation Berhad , and understanding this should be part of your investment process.

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.

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If you're someone in the workforce, you know that one of the most awkward parts of having a job is getting a job.

Woman smiling behind a resume

TVLand / Via giphy.com

Interviewing can be a real drag, and not just for the people job hunting, but for the hiring managers, too!

Airport worker saying "I am very good with people because I am myself a person!"

BBC One / Via giphy.com

From embarrassing to downright messed up, here's some of what people had to say:

1. "At an interview for a tech startup, they asked me, 'If you could be any animal, what would you be?' I answered, 'Otter,' because they're fun, active, work well with their hands, and are cute as fuck. They really debated whether or not to hire me because of that answer because, and I quote, 'We only hire predators, never prey.' God, that job sucked hard."

u/setes66343 Antonioguillem / Getty Images/iStockphoto

2. "I fell down the stairs while I was being shown around the building. I ended up breaking both fibulas and a few bones in each foot, tearing some ligaments, and cracking my tailbone.

"After the fall, I sat at the bottom of the stairs crying for about 15 minutes and finally managed to pull myself up. The woman showing me around said, 'So does this mean you don't want the rest of the tour?'"

u/Spacey19802

3. "I accidentally handed the interviewer my medical marijuana card instead of my guard card. I didnt get the job."

u/scotthia

4. "It was for a software engineering position. The entire interview was focused around finding solutions to a very specific problem. It was about 45 minutes of the interview team saying things like, 'That won't work, we tried that already.' I left the interview without finding a solution to the problem. On the way out, I spoke with HR about what the potential next steps in the interview process were. She informed me they'd already filled the position but didn't cancel any of the scheduled interviews. I was brought in to solve problems the team couldn't fix. For free."

u/SpaceGerbil Dmitry Ageev / Getty Images/EyeEm

5. "I had an interview scheduled at a law office for a receptionist position. In the morning the day before the interview, I was at the beach smoking bud with my friends when the office called and said they had moved my interview up by a day and that I needed to be there in two hours. At this point I was stoned out of my mind. So I went home, threw on some clothes, and drenched myself in perfume to cover any remaining smell of weed. I hopped on a bus and went to the interview. When I arrived, my eyes were still glazed and I was still fairly stoned. My dumb ass decided to wear heels, and no more than five steps into the building, I biffed it, tripping over their carpet.

"After I got up and pulled myself together, the interviewer approached me. We exchanged pleasantries and went into her office to talk. Needless to say, I blew the interview, stumbling over every sentence. But here's the real kicker: As I was leaving, I complimented my interviewer on her hair and asked where she got it done. She replied with, 'It's a hairpiece. I have cancer.' I didn't get hired."

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u/LittleImperialism

6. "I was the interviewer for a daycare assistant job. I asked the candidate what she believed to be the proper diaper-changing procedure, and she referred to diaper cream as 'condiments.' I couldn't think of anything else after that."

u/bunnymom610 Westend61 / Getty Images/Westend61

7. "Im an Iraq War Army veteran. Shortly after returning home to civilian life, I had an interview. The interviewer made a comment after seeing the Army on my resume, saying that she 'hoped I understood that if an issue arises at work, I cant just go into war mode and shoot the place up.' I was appalled that someone would even say something that stupid to me. I literally just stood up, told her to interview someone else, and left."

u/dtownalltheway84

8. "I got an offer where they wanted to evaluate my performance for a month and only start paying me from the second month on."

u/enticingdystopia

9. "I showed up, and the hiring manager was on the phone, screaming at the top of his lungs, cussing out an employee. He then went outside to smoke a cigarette and left me sitting in his office. When he got back, I started talking about myself and he said, 'I don't give a shit about that! How are you going to make me money?' I asked for my application back, stood up, tore it in half, and left."

u/Intelligent_Ad2963 Henrik Sorensen / Getty Images

10. "My first interview ever was at Dairy Queen, and I accidentally knocked a 90-year-old woman over."

u/yimiwe6119

11. "I had a final job interview for a job I really wanted, but woke up that morning with severe appendicitis. I decided that I would try to tough it out and went to the job interview, and I was having hot flashes the whole time. I couldnt concentrate on anything the interviewer was saying, and at one point I actually had to excuse myself to throw up in the bathroom because the pain was so severe. The interview was two hours long. I left and drove myself directly to the ER and had to have emergency surgery that day. I never told the interviewer about the surgery. Somehow I got the job!!!!"

u/kwinke Runstudio / Getty Images

12. "When I was 19, I applied to work at Chuck E. Cheese. I showed up in person three times for the interview and had it rescheduled each time before actually getting to speak with a manager. When I finally got to speak with one, he asked the typical questions  'Why do you think you'd be a good fit?' etc. I said, 'I'm friendly and outgoing and a real people person, so I think I could make a great impression with the guests.' He says, 'Everyone can say they're outgoing, but actually walking the walk is something different. Hold on.' He got up and left and came back five minutes later IN THE CHUCK E. COSTUME.

"He said, 'Okay, if you're really outgoing, you're gonna come with me and hype these kids up and learn this dance.' So I had to get up and dance with the mouse in front of all these kids, trying to follow the moves. I was mortified and doing a terrible job because I was so caught off guard. He turned to me, while in costume, and said, 'Yeah, I didn't think you could walk the walk.' Bro, this job paid like $6 an hour, and this was my third attempt at interviewing!"

u/Skr000

13. "I was the interviewer. My candidate started off by making a comment about how our receptionist's ass 'looked delicious.' I was going to bring in a female engineer to chat with him and pose technical questions, but I ended the interview early and saved her 15 minutes of her day."

u/FizzyBeverage

14. "The interview was a panel with the manager and folks from his team, and it started off fine. When it was my turn to ask questions, I asked, 'So how's the culture here?' and it got super quiet. The manager asked defensively, 'Well, how was the culture at your old job?' I replied that it was a bunch of folks who had a ton of work to do and not enough time to do it, and he said, 'Well, that's how it is here, too!' The looks on his team's faces were priceless."

u/gharar Kate_sept2004 / Getty Images

15. "They asked when I was planning on having babies. I was literally just out of high school."

u/Starchild1000

16. "I had an interview for a sales position at a life insurance company. I showed up, and it was actually a group interview. One person audibly said, 'Fuck this shit' and walked out 10 minutes in. I wanted to do the same but I'm polite, so I stuck it out. Two days later, they called and asked me if I wanted to come in for an interview. I assumed they meant a follow-up interview, but I declined, saying I wasn't interested.

"Another two days later, they called me again asking the same thing. Eventually I realized they weren't asking me back for a second interview. They were so disorganized and their turnover was so high that they didn't realize they were calling the same people over and over again. It went on for two weeks before the calls finally stopped."

u/Pizza__Pants

17. "My wife interviewed with a local printing business. Standard interview, with no red flags. A few days later, she was in that area and dropped by to see if the man had made a decision. He said God told him not to hire her."

u/Polybutadiene Jgi / Getty Images/Tetra images RF

18. "My worst eventually turned into one of my best. Im a mechanical engineer. I only have a high school diploma and taught myself coding and how to use lots of different software. My resume says I can do all these things, but there's no trade school or college education listed. I got an interview somewhere I really wanted to work at, and the owner himself wanted to talk to me. He's an old-school, 'no BS' kinda guy and immediately said, 'I hate guys like you!' I looked at him very confused. He repeated himself, 'I cant stand people like you, people who PAD THEIR RESUMES!!!'

"Then he said, 'I cant stand liars.' He had called me in there just to berate me. After getting into a screaming match, I said, 'I guarantee I can do everything on that resume.' Then I made a bet: Hire me for $5 less an hour, and if I prove myself in 60 days, then I get a $6 raise. He took the offer/bet. I started working there, and within two weeks I was teaching his guys things. Their TOP guy didnt know as much as I did. At the end of the second week, the owner came on the floor, shook my hand, and said Id be getting a $7 raise starting the next week. Been working and doing great there ever since."

u/Gbody1991

19. "I walked in, and one of the people doing the interviewing was an ex-girlfriend."

u/Jedi4ce

20. "I went in for an interview for a writing job. The guy started asking me if I would do sales stuff as well, and I said I didn't really have any experience in sales. He told me to hold on a minute and left the room. I sat there for a while and realized he wasn't coming back, so I got up and left. As I was leaving, he was standing outside the door smoking. He said, 'Sorry, you're not getting the job."

u/Puzzled-Shampoo5154 Westend61 / Getty Images/Westend61

21. "Dont know if it was the worst or maybe best: I was working in publishing and interviewed at an insurance company. The hiring manager said, 'Youre qualified and you seem smart, so let me tell you this: Dont take this job. We sell one product that pays only after someone dies. This is a boring industry and a boring job. You can do much better. Please dont take this job. Think about it overnight, and if you call me tomorrow and tell me you want it, its yours, but please do something more interesting with your life.'"

u/gostate5 Laflor / Getty Images/iStockphoto

And finally...

22. "I didn't get the job."

u/clearwind

23. "I got the job."

u/Aloneforrever

Note: Some responses have been edited for length and/or clarity.
(Bloomberg) -- The Philippines has filed 10 diplomatic protests against China over alleged violations in the South China Sea with barely two months into 2023, underscoring renewed tensions between the two nations over the disputed waters.

Most Read from Bloomberg

These form part of the 77 diplomatic protests filed against China under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Monday. Thats almost a fifth of the 388 protests filed throughout the six-year term of Marcoss predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte.

The Philippines continues to protest Chinas persistent and illegal presence in Philippine waters, including those near Ayungin Shoal, the agency said.

Beijing has been asserting its claims to a wide swath of the South China Sea, including islands and reefs Manila sees as its own. Earlier this month, the Philippines protested Chinas move to aim a military-grade laser at a Philippine ship in the contested waters. The US has described Chinas move as provocative, while Beijing has said the laser was not military grade.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Netflix's long-running Pokemon partnership is heading in a slightly unexpected direction. The streaming service has marked Pokemon Day by unveiling Pokemon Concierge, a show featuring stop-motion animation from Japan's Dwarf Studio. The series follows Haru, who joins Psyduck in meeting various trainers and creatures on vacation.

The companies haven't shared the cast, format or release date. The production is "coming soon," Netflix says. However, it's safe to say you can expect a different style and storyline than the usual tales of Ash, Pikachu and crew.

Netflix first brought Pokemon content to subscribers in 2014, when it added the classic television series and two movies, among other videos. More has flowed in the years since, including the service-exclusive Pokemon Journeys. The strategy remains the same: Netflix potentially draws hordes of younger fans who may stick around for other kid-friendly shows, while The Pokemon Company helps introduce its gotta-catch-em-all brand to a generation that may never watch conventional TV.
Update: Curtis Walker pleaded guilty to aggravated battery when the assault poses a substantial risk of death as part of an agreement with prosecutors. He was sentenced to nine years in the Indiana Department of Corrections, with six years of the sentence suspended on Feb. 21, 2023.

Indianapolis police chief on Friday named the two officers who shot a man on Memorial Day after police said he charged them with a knife.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officials identified the officers as William Fulton and Theodore Howlett, both on the force for two years.

Howlett and Fulton arrived at the first block of South Colorado Avenue just before 5 a.m. Monday after a report of a domestic disturbance involving a man armed with a knife and threatening a woman.

Dispatchers told the two officers that a man, later identified as Curtis Walker, could be heard threatening to kill a woman.

Howlett and Fulton ordered the people in the home to come outside. When the officers walked into the house, IMPD alleges Walker emerged from a room and charged towards one officer with a knife.

Both Howlett and Fulton fired their guns, striking Walker. IMPD said an officer was hit in his bulletproof vest from another officer firing their weapon. The officer was taken to the hospital and has since been released. It is not clear which officer was shot.

Prosecutors charged Walker with domestic battery with a deadly weapon and two counts of attempted murder, according to court records.

The shooting is under investigation by both IMPDs Critical Incident Response Team and Internal Affairs Unit. Multiple officers had body-worn cameras during the incident, IMPDs statement said.

Contact Sarah Nelson at sarah.nelson@indystar.com or 317-503-7514.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indianapolis police name officers who shot man they say charged them
ROME (AP)  Pope Francis will visit Hungary at the end of April, the Vatican said Monday, in a trip expected to focus on migration to Europe and Russias war in Ukraine.

The April 28-30 trip to Budapest represents a proper state visit after Francis made a brief, hours-long stopover in 2021 to close out a church conference. That visit was visibly awkward, given that Prime Minister Viktor Orbans hard-line views on migration and Francis' call for countries to welcome those fleeing war, hardship and poverty.

Since then, Hungary has accepted hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians fleeing Russias invasion. Francis, who has repeatedly expressed solidarity with Ukraine, met at the Vatican with Orban last April and thanked him for taking them in.

Upon arrival, Francis will meet with Orban, a contentious leader who has centered his political brand around a staunch rejection of immigration and a focus on preventing Hungary from becoming mixed race.

While Hungary accepted Ukrainian refugees, it has refused to provide weapons to Kyiv or allow their transfer across its borders, and has lobbied against European Union sanctions on Moscow and held up some financial aid packages to Ukraine.

Francis has been supportive of Ukraines plight following Russias invasion -- likening it to a 1930s genocide of Ukrainians blamed on Soviet leader Joseph Stalin -- while Orban has been lukewarm in his support for Hungarys eastern neighbor.

Still, Orban has cast his view of the war as being in line with the Vaticans, saying during a speech Feb. 18 that his government and the papacy were the only powers in Europe advocating for peace in Ukraine.

Francis has also tried to maintain relations with Moscow and the Russian Orthodox Church. Hungary was key in blocking the EU from sanctioning the head of the Russian church, Patriarch Kirill, over his support for the war.

Francis will meet with refugees during his visit, as well as children. On his final day, he will deliver a speech to the Hungarian academic and cultural world, in which he is likely to issue a message to Europe at large.

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Francis, who just returned from Congo and South Sudan, has other trips confirmed or in the works this year. The 86-year-old pope, who marks his 10th anniversary as pontiff next month, is due to participate in World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal in August. He has said the Vatican is studying a possible trip to Mongolia at the end of September, after a brief stop in Marseille, France.

___

Justin Spike reported from Budapest, Hungary.
A newly opened Chinese-owned supermarket in the Kenyan capital has temporarily shut its doors after competitors alleged that it was driving them out of business with low-priced goods.

China Square, located at Unicity Mall, 18km (11 miles) northeast of the Kenyan capital, said on Sunday that it would stop operations temporarily "to allow us to re-evaluate and replan our company strategy".

China Square owner Lei Cheng said the company would also be "considering the possibility of cooperating with local traders to enhance our offerings and better integrate with the community".

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and hope that you will understand our need to take this action," Cheng said, adding that the business would reopen on Monday.

China Square opened on January 29, offering a range of household items, from kitchenware to furniture and hardware.

The mall was immediately popular but Kenyan traders claimed that China Square cut them out of the market by selling its goods at a deep discount.

The traders from various competing trading centres took their complaints to Kenyan deputy president Rigathi Gachagua last week, appealing for action and threatening to stage protests.

"I have hosted representatives of small traders from Nyamakima, Kamukunji, Gikomba, and River Road for discussions on addressing challenges in their businesses in the capital city," Gachagua said after the meeting on Thursday.

"We have agreed to have further consultations with more members on Wednesday, March 1, next week towards sustainable solutions to the issues affecting these small-scale traders."

China Square opened in Nairobi on January 29, offering a range of household items. Photo: Simon Ciuri, Kenya alt=China Square opened in Nairobi on January 29, offering a range of household items. Photo: Simon Ciuri, Kenya>

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Then on Friday, Kenyan Trade Minister Moses Kuria said he had held talks with Kenyatta University, which owns Unicity Mall, about leasing the site to the competing small traders.

"I have today given an offer to ... Kenyatta University to buy out the lease for China Square, Unicity Mall and hand it over to the Gikomba, Nyamakima, Muthurwa and Eastleigh Traders Association [Kenyan small scale traders]," Kuria said.

"We welcome Chinese investors to Kenya as manufacturers not traders."

He said he would help China Square's owner to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya to produce goods that could be traded rather than competing with local small-scale traders.

"I will assist China Square owner Mr Cheng to set up a manufacturing plant in Kenya and work on a distribution partnership with Gikomba, Nyamakima, Eastleigh, Kamukunji, Muthurwa and River Road Traders," he said.

But Cheng said the move was discriminatory and Chinese firms should be allowed to operate just like other foreign-owned businesses.

"If other foreigners can do business in Kenya so can Chinese because we have done nothing wrong. Our customers are happy because we have drastically reduced our prices," Cheng said.

Cheng told the Nairobi-based Daily Nation newspaper that in the first two weeks in business, China Square's sales reached KSh20 million (about US$158,088) a day.

"Nowadays, on a bad day we sell goods worth KSh10 million (US$79,044)," Cheng was quoted as saying.

"My business is legal and is centred on healthy competition. We have cooperated with all government directives for opening a business in Kenya and we are here to break the monopoly. The people who are fighting us feel threatened because Kenyans now know we exist and we are not exploiting them in pricing."

Prominent lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi also spoke out against the trade minister's decision.

"CS Moses Kuria is obviously wrong in his onslaught against Mr Lei Cheng of China Square. 'Kenya is open for business' is Kuria's mantra, yet he is at war with Cheng for succeeding in his business model (selling cheapest),"Abdullahi tweeted on Sunday.

This is not the first time that Chinese traders have found themselves in trouble with authorities. In 2019, Kenyan authorities deported seven Chinese nationals for trading illegally in Nairobi's Gikomba and Kamukunji markets.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2023 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2023. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Police found a man deceased inside a 17th Street home in Port Huron Sunday. The death is being investigated as suspicious.

Port Huron Assistant Police Chief Brian Kerrigan said a person is in custody as an investigation into the death of a man inside a 17th Street home continues.

Police found a man dead inside a home in the 1300 block of 17th Street about 7:45 a.m. Sunday. Kerrigan said the man was a 26-year-old St. Clair County resident.

The man was discovered after police were called to the location about 1:45 a.m. for a possible assault or disturbance possibly involving a firearm. Officers received information two people had fled the house and there was a potential subject armed inside.

Kerrigan said the departments special response, crisis negotiation and criminal investigation teams were called to the scene. Residents in the area were told to stay inside.

He said after several hours of trying to communicate with the person they entered the home and found the man dead.

He said police are treating it as a suspicious death.

Kerrigan said the people who fled the home had been located and were cooperating and one is a person of interest in the investigation and in the county jail. He said he could not give more details about the person or the relation to the deceased man.

The cause and manner of death are pending an autopsy.

The Michigan State Police Crime Lab assisted in the investigation.

Further details have not been released.

Anyone with information regarding the incident can call the Port Huron Police Department at (810) 984-8415 or the Port Huron Police Departments Major Crimes Unit at (810) 984-5383.

Anonymous tips can be received through the CAPTURE Hotline at (810) 987-6688, emailed through www.porthuronpolice.org, or texted by downloading the Port Huron PD app on apple or android devices. Anonymous texts can also be received by texting the keyword CAPTURE and their message/tip to 847411.

Contact Liz Shepard at lshepard@gannett.com.

Police are investigating a man's death after he was found deceased inside a 17th Street Port Huron home Sunday morning.

This article originally appeared on Port Huron Times Herald: Port Huron police investigating 'suspicious death' on 17th Street
Jacqueline Burnett, 35, of Hampton, was charged with driving under the influence after a single vehicle crash in Portsmouth.

PORTSMOUTH  New Hampshire State Police over the weekend arrested a city Police Department staffer on charges of driving under the influence in Portsmouth.

Portsmouth Police Department executive assistant Jacqueline Burnett, 35, was arrested by state police on the DUI charge early Saturday morning.

Per state police spokesperson Amber Lagace, at approximately 1:58 a.m. Saturday, Portsmouth police called state police to cover a single-vehicle crash that occurred on Peverly Hill Road due to a city employee being involved in the incident. Wires were downed as a result of the crash.

Burnett, a Hampton resident, was arrested and is slated to appear in Portsmouth District Court regarding the charge on March 29 at 8:30 a.m., according to Lagace.

Portsmouth Police Chief Mark Newport shared that he made the call to ask state police to cover the incident rather than city police.

Were aware of it and were handing it administratively, he said of the personnel matter.

More:Clipper Tavern owner, manager buy Jitto's Super Steak in Portsmouth: 'We're lucky'

State police are continuing to handle the investigation. Portsmouth police, aside from closing down the road at the time of the crash, have had no involvement in the case, according to Newport.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth Police Department staffer charged with DUI after crash
Earl L. Moore Jr.

A strongly worded motion filed by the Sangamon County state's attorney Friday afternoon seeks to bar the defendants in the Earl L. Moore Jr. murder case from presenting "evidence, argument or inquiry" about or from other proceedings and their outcomes.

In the motion, prosecutor Dan Wright pointedly wrote that the attorneys for Peggy Jill Finley and Peter J. Cadigan, both emergency medical services workers charged with first-degree murder in Moore's case, were attempting to lock out Moore's family from seeking "whole justice" for his Dec. 18 death.

Wright filed criminal charges against Finley and Cadigan on Jan. 9. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Moore's family and estate, filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Sangamon County court with Finley, Cadigan and LifeStar Ambulance Services, Inc. as defendants on Jan. 19.

Court motion: Paramedic accused of murder tried to influence Springfield Police officer

Wright noted that W. Scott Hanken, the attorney for Finley, and Cadigan's attorneys, Edward Unsell and Justin Kuehn, have ignored the principle that "parallel criminal, civil and administrative proceedings are not mutually exclusive, and each involves distinct burdens of proof, rights, remedies and procedures."

Defense attorneys have consistently argued, Wright said in the motion, "that the states actions to seek justice in this case have no place in a criminal courtroom."

Wright did not comment outside of the motion.

Sangamon County State's Attorney Dan Wright speaks during a press conference Tuesday Jan. 10, 1023 at the Sangamon County Building in which he said two EMT's will be charge with first degree murder.

Hanken, who was out of town Friday, had not reviewed the motion.

Hanken called the of filing first-degree murder charges "a stretch" and that the state was trying to turn "an alleged medical malpractice into a crime."

In a response to a motion by the state to admit Memorial EMS System's "Patient Restraint Policy," Unsell said the state's argument "would be good...in a (civil) malpractice case."

By saying the case doesn't belong in criminal court, Wright wrote in the filing, the defense attorneys are claiming Moore's death is only "worthy of partial justice" through the civil case.

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In announcing the lawsuit last month, Crump said he wanted to make sure Moore's family got "whole justice, not just partial justice, not piecemeal justice. We want to make sure we have criminal culpability and civil accountability."

Scott Hanken, lawyer for defendant Peggy Jill Finley, appears in court at a preliminary hearing for his client Jan. 19, 2023 at the Sangamon County Building.

There is a motion hearing on the civil suit on Tuesday.

Finley and Cadigan are accused of killing Moore, 35, by strapping him tightly and face down on a stretcher, causing "compression and positional asphyxia," according to Dr. John Scott Denton, a forensic pathologist from Bloomington.

Both have pleaded not guilty.

It would be up to Circuit Judge Robin Schmidt to rule on the motion in the criminal case. Finley and Cadigan are due in court March 20.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Earl L. Moore Jr.'s family and estate in a wrongful death lawsuit in Springfield, Ill., said had Moore's vitals been checked, "it would have been immediately apparent that he was in grave and life-threatening danger."#SJRBreaking pic.twitter.com/k4EjdB6iq7  Steven Spearie (@StevenSpearie) January 22, 2023

Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788, sspearie@sj-r.com, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Sangamon County state's attorney files new motion in Moore murder case
Apple's Reality Pro mixed-reality headset is expected to being shipping late in 2023, Bloomberg reported. JOSH EDELSON/AFP via Getty Images

Apple's mixed-reality headset is expected to start shipping late 2023 priced around $3,000, per Bloomberg.

Prototypes of the Reality Pro feature "in-air" typing based on hand and eye movements, Bloomberg said.

The launch of the Reality Pro would mark Apple's first big step into metaverse technology.

Prototypes of Apple's upcoming mixed-reality headset feature in-air typing technology, Bloomberg reported.

The tech, found on the most recent prototypes of the Reality Pro device, allows users to don the headset and type text using hand gestures and eye movements, Bloomberg said.

Mixed-reality differs from virtual-reality because both real and virtual objects are merged in the user's field of vision. Microsoft's HoloLens 2, which retails for $3,500, is described as a "hands-free computer" which renders holograms in the real world.

Both The Information and Bloomberg have reported that Apple's Reality Pro will retail at around $3,000 upon launch, which is expected later in 2023.

Unlike the Apple Watch, the Reality Pro probably won't need pairing with an iPhone, Bloomberg said.

Apple didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

The headset would mark Apple's entry into metaverse technology, competing with the likes of Meta's Quest Pro and Microsoft's HoloLens. Apple CEO Tim Cook previously told Dutch media outlet Bright that Apple avoids the word "metaverse" because "I'm really not sure the average person can tell you what the metaverse is."

In 2021, people familiar with the Reality Pro project told The Information it would include high-definition 8K displays and 12 cameras with eye-tracking technology. In August 2022, companies tied to Apple filed trademarks for devices named "Reality One," "Reality Pro," and "Reality Processor." Three months later, job listings surfaced looking for engineers to develop a 3D mixed-reality world for Apple.

Apple's secretive Exploratory Design Group, whose work includes a blood glucose monitor, is also working on headset features to help people with eye diseases, per Bloomberg.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The revised texts have almost entirely done away with the N-word slur, which author Ian Fleming used to refer to Blacks when he wrote in the 1950s and 60s.

The publisher of James Bond novels is implementing some adjustments by removing racial references from a number of the books, with some representations of Black people being altered or eliminated as a result.

According to The Telegraph, Ian Fleming Publications Ltd., which owns the rights to Ian Flemings works, requested that sensitivity readers evaluate its classics.

Bond literature has been altered in the past to appeal to various markets, with the author allowing editor Al Hart to reduce the intensity of the sex scenes for American readers.

Ian Fleming Publications Ltd., the company that owns the rights to works written by author Ian Fleming (above), has edited out racist references in several James Bond novels set for reissuing in April. (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube.com/WGN News)

In a statement, Fleming Publications said it examined the text in some of the original Bond books and determined that following Flemings direction was the best course of action.

Following Ians approach, the publisher said in a statement, The Telegraph reported, we looked at the instances of several racial terms across the books and removed a number of individual words or else swapped them for terms that are more accepted today but in keeping with the period in which the books were written.

The revised texts have almost entirely done away with the N-word, which Fleming used to refer to Black people when he wrote in the 1950s and 1960s. The most common replacement used is Black person or Black man, but the texts entirely abandon racial characterizations in some cases.

Outdated allusions to certain racial groups still exist, however, such as Bonds terms for East Asians and the spys unfavorable opinions of Oddjob, Goldfingers Korean henchman. There are also still references to the sweet tang of rape, blithering women not being able to do a mans job, and homosexuality being a stubborn disability.

In the sensitivity reader-approved version of Live and Let Die, the wording pretty law-abiding chaps I should have thought, except when theyve drunk too much is changed to drop the drinking reference to African would-be criminals in the gold and diamond trades.

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A different scenario has Bond in New York visiting Harlem, where a lewd strip tease at a club gets 007 and the rest of the male audience increasingly agitated.

While the original passage compares the audience panting and grunting to pigs at the trough, the revised section replaces the reference with Bond could sense the electric tension in the room.

The revisions to the Bond books come after passages from Roald Dahls books were removed on the advice of cultural sensitivity specialists hired by the companys Puffin childrens label, according to The Associated Press.

All of the novels featuring Agent 007 will be reprinted in April, to mark 70 years since the publication of the first Bond book, Casino Royale. Following the reprint, which will include a disclaimer, Fleming Publications urged readers to read the books themselves.

Puffin will republish Dahls books in their uncensored version after a backlash. While Fleming was amenable to changes to his writing, Dahl reportedly vowed 40 years ago to never write another word if his publishers ever altered his language, according to AP.

This book was written at a time when terms and attitudes which might be considered offensive by modern readers were commonplace, the disclaimer in the Bond books will read, according to The Telegraph. It notes that updates were made while keeping as close as possible to the original text and the period in which it is set.

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The post Publisher to edit out racist references in James Bond novels appeared first on TheGrio.
A Colorado sheriffs office has drawn outrage after it awarded a Purple Heart to a deputy involved in a fatal shooting of a man at a middle school while students were being discharged.

Deputy Charles McWhorter received the commendation from the Pueblo County Sheriffs Office four days before a federal wrongful death lawsuit was filed against him, other deputies and the county.

The award was given during an annual banquet Feb. 17, according to a post about the ceremony on the sheriffs Facebook page.

Pueblo County Sheriff Deputy Charles McWhorter (Pueblo County Colorado)

A spokesperson with the sheriff's office confirmed to NBC News over email on Monday that Deputy McWhorter received the Purple Heart for injuries he sustained in the Feb. 22, 2022, incident.

The spokesperson said neither McWhorter nor anyone with the office would provide additional comment because of the pending lawsuit, which was filed in U.S. District Court for Colorado. Attempts to reach McWhorter outside of the sheriff's office were unsuccessful Monday.

According to the suit, McWhorter fatally shot Richard Ward, 32, last February when he was with his mother and her boyfriend to pick up his younger brother from Liberty Point International Middle School.

Pueblo County sheriffs deputies approached Ward after they received a report that he had been opening doors of nearby vehicles in the pickup waiting area, officials have said.

Ward stepped out of his mothers SUV for a brief walk, mistook another white SUV for hers and got in the wrong vehicle, the lawsuit says. He apologized to the woman who was driving after he realized his mistake and returned to his mothers vehicle, the suit says.

Minutes later, according to the suit, McWhorter confronted Ward, who was shot three times during a physical struggle. Ward was pronounced dead at the scene, the lawsuit says.

Attorney Darold Killmer, who represents the Ward family in the lawsuit, said Monday the Purple Heart being given to McWhorter is an outrage and was a calculated decision.

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They knew they were about to be sued, so they decided they need to turn this guy into a hero, Killmer said. They gave him a Purple Heart because he hurt himself when he was killing Richard.

He added: They had to defend an unjustifiable killing. So they wanted to have a hero at the head of the lineup for them.

The lawsuit alleges Wards rights were violated under both the federal and the state constitutions through excessive use of force. Wards family is demanding a jury trial.

Comments under the sheriffs offices Facebook page post about the awards' banquet were critical of McWhorter's award.

Please tell us that you didnt honor an officer who ... pulled trigger on an innocent citizen with the Purple Heart. We are now on national news and it is embarrassing for this community, one person wrote.

Awarding an officer for murdering someone Sounds about right for law enforcement these days You should be ashamed to call yourselves protectors of your community And the people congratulating this murderer should be ashamed too, another said.

An investigation by the Pueblo County Sheriffs Office found that the deputies actions comported with and were pursuant to Pueblo County Sheriffs Office training, policies, customs and practices, the lawsuit says.

The 10th Judicial District Attorney Jeff Chostner investigated the shooting and ruled it justified in an Oct. 14, 2022, report

The deputies had reasonable grounds to believe they were in imminent danger of being killed, he said in the report.

Cassandra Gonzales, one of the two deputies who yanked Ward out of his mother's vehicle before he was fatally shot, told the Pueblo Police Department on the day of the shooting that Ward opened his coat and reached inside with his right hand.

She told officers she wasnt sure if Ward was armed, and that he was resisting arrest and grabbing at McWhorters duty belt, according to the report.

Meanwhile, McWhorter said, Ward put something in his mouth, turned and then opened his jacket and reached inside as if he was carrying a weapon.

Neither deputy offered first-aid assistance to Ward. Both deputies told the police department they were going to provide aid but felt they could be vulnerable with Wards mother and her boyfriend in the vehicle.

Theres no evidence of him reaching for a gun, Killmer said, noting no weapon was found on Ward.

Shortly after the shooting, Wards mother, Kristy Ward Stamp, was arrested and interrogated at the sheriffs office, Killerman said. Authorities also kept her car, cell phone, identification and purse for months as part of their investigation.

They were treating her like a criminal, like she had done something wrong. They sat and watched as they executed her son, Killerman said.

Ward's relatives said the death has shattered the family.

Why didnt they ask him to step out of the vehicle? Why didnt they talk to my mom or her boyfriend? How come you couldnt use non-lethal force? said Eddy Stamp, 27, Ward's brother who lives in Sacramento, California. You hear about this stuff, and you just dont think it can happen to you. They completely escalated the situation.

The Pueblo County District Attorneys Office said in an October letter that McWhorter and a second deputy had reasonable ground to believe their safety was in danger, NBC affiliate KUSA reported.

That same letter listed McWhorters injuries that included an injury to his face, at the bridge of his nose, his right forefinger, his lower back, his right knee and a re-aggravated injury to the middle of his neck.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Reuters

Belarusian saboteurs successfully attacked a Russian A-50 military surveillance aircraft in an airfield near Minsk in recent hours, Belarusian opposition sources confirmed to The Daily Beast.

Its a big victory. That airplane was very expensive, very rare, and perhaps the most important aircraft of the Russian fleet, Franak Viacorka, the chief political adviser to Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, told The Daily Beast. Its a victory of Belarusian partisans, for Belarusian underground resistance, and its the most successful act of sabotage perhaps in Belarusian history.

The opposition has intelligence that suggests that the aircraft, which is one of just a smattering in Russias lineup, is no longer working, citing a recent Russian operation in which the A-50 was unusually absent.

We have signs that this aircraft is not repairable anymore and it will not fly anymore, Viacorka said, a statement that has not been independently verified by The Daily Beast. Last night when another attack of Iranian drones launched by Russians was made, this spy plane was not in the air, so it means it was not usable.

Valery Kavaleuski, a foreign affairs representative for Belarus opposition, confirmed to The Daily Beast that the attack was carried out by drones.

Alexandr Azarov, the leader of the antigovernment group BYPOL, which works with Tsikhanouskayas office, said on Telegram that Belarusians were behind the attack, noting the radar and the front and central parts of the aircraft were damaged.

Shadow Government in Putins Own Backyard Plots Against Him

Ever since Russian troops first entered Belarus to use its territory as a staging ground for launching Russian President Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine, Belarusian saboteurs have been working to disrupt the war effort. Last year, Belarusian saboteurs attacked the rail lines to interrupt Russian movement and supply efforts through the country.

The attack on the Russian aircraft coincides with a warning from Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko that he is willing to let Putin keep using Belarusian territory as a launchpad for the war in Ukraine, which has just entered its second year. And although Lukashenko has, at times, resisted Putin and tried to maintain independence from him, Lukashenko watchers have begun warning in recent days that Putin is likely choking him off, noting that any ability he previously had to make decisions independently appears to have vanished.

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But the takedown is intended to send a stark message to Russia and Belarus that they are in an extremely weak position, even a full year after trying and failing to capture Kyiv, Viacorka told The Daily Beast. The hope is that operations like this might force Russia and Belarus to question whether its worth it to use Belarus as a staging ground for the war.

This is also a message to Russians that they are not safe in Belarus anymore. They cannot just use Belarusian territory without any consequences, Viacorka told The Daily Beast.

The fact that Russian authorities have declined to comment on the incident and that Belarusian authorities havent even acknowledged the attack shows they are likely ashamed of the incident.

We see that Lukashenko is in a panic, Viacorka said. Theyre embarrassed because it shows how fragile, how naked, is the whole system of defense.

Tsikhanouskaya applauded the attack in a statement.

I am proud of all Belarusians who continue to resist the Russian hybrid occupation of Belarus & fight for the freedom of Ukraine, she said. Your brave actions show the world that Belarus stands against imperial aggression.

Russia is already looking for those involved in the attack, BYPOL said in a social media post, warning Belarusians to be careful with their social media and digital activity to avoid being traced. Those involved are in a safe place right now, though, Viacorka told The Daily Beast.

The attack should also serve as a warning that this kind of takedown will not be the last, Belarus opposition told The Daily Beast. Russia and Belarus can expect similar acts of disruption and sabotage in the future, Viacorka said.

We hope that this is not the last attack, that there are many other plans of our partisans, Viacorka told The Daily Beast. We will be looking forward.

The act of sabotage is just one part of the oppositions so-called Victory Plan, or Pieramoha plan, which is aimed at conducting civil resistance throughout Belarus against Lukashenkos regime.

The opposition in exile has long urged saboteurs to be ready to act when the time is right. But this attack should not be a signal that armed resistance is in the cards yet, Viacorka cautioned.

We still stick with the idea of nonviolent resistance. And destroying Russian equipment is not violent. Our partisans dont harm people. They destroy Russian equipment. They stop Russian trains, they hack Russian institutions to delay and disrupt the war machine, Viacorka told The Daily Beast. The underground resistance, through such sabotage, is the only and most effective way at this point.

The attack is a sign that Belarusians efforts to help Ukraine thwart Russias war continue and extend to many different realms, from hacking to information-sharing to incidents like this, Kavaleuski told The Daily Beast. Belarusians are trying to help Ukrainian in all possible ways.

Putins Favorite Neighbor Is Caving in to the Kremlin

Lukashenko and Putin should not only expect attacks against their military entities, but espionage and turmoil to come from within, too, the opposition said Monday.

Belarus opposition is working to recruit spies from within the Belarusian military to help conduct sabotage against the joint military groupings of Russian and Belarusian armed forces, which have been training together for combat readiness in Belarus in recent months.

The opposition is working to find our allies within the Belarusian army who will sabotage from inside, who will show disobedience [to] Kremlin orders and Lukashenkos administration, Viacorka said.

We can disrupt their presence and create much discomfort for them definitely, Viacorka added, noting some efforts to recruit spies are already underway. Theyre already on it.

The attack is also meant to send off alarm bells that for Belarusians, Russias use of Belarusian territory signals that Lukashenko has become a puppet and that this is turning into a Russian occupation.

This is to send a signal that Belarus is essentially under partial occupation by Russia and we need to deoccupy Belarus, Kavaleuski told The Daily Beast. It is important to understand that Belarusians are not happy about the presence of Russian military in our land, and they will have to go.

This is a reminder for the world that Belarus and Ukraines fates are interconnected, Viacorka said.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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By Stephen Nellis

(Reuters) - Qualcomm Inc on Monday said it was working with a group of Android smartphone companies to add satellite-based messaging capabilities to their devices.

The San Diego, California-based company, which is the world's biggest supplier of chips that connect mobile phones to wireless data networks, said it is working with Honor, Lenovo-owned Motorola, Nothing, OPPO, Vivo and Xiaomi Corp to develop the devices.

Satellite-based communications can send and receive data in remote or rural regions where other telecommunications networks are not available. Qualcomm announced that it was adding the capabilities to its chips earlier this year.

Qualcomm's work with Android device makers is likely to intensify competition between those brands and Apple Inc, which last year unveiled the ability to send emergency satellite messages as one of the flagship features of its newest iPhone lineup. Those new iPhones contain a chip from Qualcomm, though Apple told Reuters that they also contain custom hardware and software that are proprietary to Apple.

Qualcomm did not say when the new satellite messaging features from the Android smartphone brands named on Monday would become available. Earlier this year, Qualcomm said that some Android phones would have the features by the second half of this year.

(Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III has a theory: Churches that oppress LGBTQI+ people are not churches.

Allen is the senior pastor and founder of The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta, which he began with his husband in 2005.

Today, the predominantly Black Pentecostal church has some 3,000 fellowshipped members, most of whom are LGBTQI+. And, like many organizations that serve marginalized groups, it rests on a historical foundation that the church fought to mold so that its members would be accepted.

When people of color, Black people couldnt find solace in white LGBTQ spaces, we created our own," Allen tells Today.com about the church's mission. "We created our own of everything, whether it was our own fraternities and sororities, our own institutions, our own churches.

When Vision first purchased its cathedral in 2010  it was previously Confederate Baptist Church  it sat at the intersection of Ormewood and Confederate Avenues. After much effort, Allen and his parishioners were able to have the latter street name changed to United Avenue in 2018.

ATLANTA, GA - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023 - The Vision Cathedral (Lynsey Weatherspoon for TODAY)

The street name change wasn't immediately welcomed by the surrounding community, Allen says. But the move advanced the churchs aim to encourage members to hold space for themselves in the face of efforts to hamper their identities.

There was tension, and the neighborhood was having to adjust from a dwindling Confederate Baptist Church congregation to now this huge, Black LGBT majority congregation, Allen says. You can imagine the neighborhood was like, 'What in the world.

Allen, 50, was born and raised in Los Angeles and calls his upbringing religiously diverse. Throughout his childhood and teen years, his family members attended Baptist, Pentecostal and Seventh-Day Adventists churches.

Like many of his churchs congregants, he often stood in pews while listening to the words of pastors who condemned people like him. But these leaders, he points out, were often surrounded by LGBTQI+ members who made the church's choirs more lively, helped with collections and filled the seats.

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Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III (Lynsey Weatherspoon for TODAY)

These dynamics, combined with sermons that decried non-hetero sexualities as abominations, are part of the reason why Allen sees himself as more than a leader of a Black or gay Church.

More than a preacher, Allen describes himself as an abolitionist, someone whose job is to spread a message of freedom and acceptance, two elements that he argues are the fundamentals of Christian belief.

I grew up in something that called itself a church. (It) couldnt have been a church, he asserts. Jesus Christ didnt say anything about gay people and said everything about liberating people. From all types of oppression, (including) sin.

At Vision, churchgoers are encouraged to embrace their faith through education, community support and the encouragement of political activism.

Its ministries focus on providing food and clothing collections for the homeless, HIV and AIDS testing and support, and addressing health and wellness, particularly for Black LGBTQI+ members.

The church also works to develop spaces that nurture those who have been turned away by their families, a common problem facing its transgender members.

ATLANTA, GA - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023 - Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III during worship service at Vision Cathedral. (Lynsey Weatherspoon for TODAY)

Tonyka McKinney, 38, has been a member of Vision church since 2009. She says that the year before she joined, her entire family cast her off after she came out to them as a lesbian.

I was at my lowest point, like, I was absolutely suicidal when I walked into (Vision), she said. The internalized negativity had just taken over. I didnt want to be alive anymore. I didnt know a way out because I hated myself, because thats what I was taught, to hate a person who was gay.

The south Georgia native described her upbringing in a very Christian" Black evangelical home, where family members like her mother, her uncle and grandfather often stepped up to the pulpit as pastors.

My mother was in labor with me on a pew at church. She had to leave church to go have me, she explains, adding that between the ages of 18 and 24, she ventured outside of her familys church to attend six to eight other churches.

ATLANTA, GA - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023 - Portrait of Tonyka McKinney. (Lynsey Weatherspoon for TODAY)

At each church, McKinney became skilled at code-switching. She swapped her slacks for skirts and left no questions open when it came to her sexuality. But at Vision, McKinney says she no longer feels compelled to pretzel herself into a category to gain favor.

I can actually be myself," she says. "I can go to church and sit next to my wife, and no ones going to be like, What is this?

Four years ago, Hakim Asadi, 33, joined Vision after deciding to walk away from churches altogether in 2015.

Like McKinney, Asadi also grew up in a religious household where much of his community and daily activities centered around church life. The counselor and social worker grew up in a religious family in upstate New York, where his grandmother oversaw a church that she had founded in 1955.

Asadi says his family ties to the church did not shelter him from stigmas as people began to realize he was gay. He recalls hearing murmurs about him running through the pews during services.

The first (feeling) that comes to my mind is shame, he says. There are parts of me that I wasnt able to explore freely and openly and safely because it wasnt talked about, it wasnt accepted. It was frowned upon."

Hakim Asadi became a member of Vision a few years after deciding that practicing faith in church was no longer for him. (Courtesy Jeremiah Drummond)

Just by being himself, I was dying and going to hell, he recalled thinking.

Today, he is a minister in training at Vision and works for the office of the bishop. Being able to attend services with a previous romantic partner without getting judgemental looks affords Asadi mindfulness in church.

Theres an essence of freedom here and shared freedom because church is about community," he says. "I can look over and see my people.

According to McKinney, although the majority of church members are LGBTQI+, Bishop Allens sermons have "nothing to do with whether or not you're gay or straight."

Ive never had to hear from his pulpit that something was wrong with me," she says. "I hear the complete opposite: that God loves me. And God loves everyone.

ATLANTA, GA - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023 - Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen III during worship service at Vision Cathedral. (Lynsey Weatherspoon for TODAY)

These days, the churchs missions are ever-expanding, with members like Asadi and McKinney providing education outreach to young people who are at risk.

The Trevor Projects 2020 national survey on LGBTQ youth found that 44% of Black LGBTQI+ youth seriously considered suicide in the 12 months it conducted its study.

To save lives, Vision works with people in homeless communities and on university campuses. Just eight miles away from Vision is Morehouse College, Allens alma mater, where many of the churchs members are enrolled.

These students and members, even outside of Vision, are invited to take part in the churchs social events, such as picnics and fish fries, which have long served as the foundation of Black families and communities in the South. There are also Bible study events throughout the week.

People can get the love and care that they would normally get from their grandmother or their auntie, Allen says.

ATLANTA, GA - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023 - Praise and worship at Vision Cathedral. (Lynsey Weatherspoon for TODAY)

As Allen puts it, Vision models a family dynamic in the same way that underground ballroom communities, gay dive bars and gay villages became surrogate spaces for those who were shunned for coming out in decades past.

"When I do the benediction, my husband stands next to me, and our children stand in front of us," he says. "I don't have to say anything like we're a normal family. People see themselves in us."

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
LONDON (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak struck a new deal with the European Union on post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland on Monday and said it would pave the way for a new chapter in London's relationship with the bloc.

Below is a selection of reactions to the deal:

LABOUR PARTY LEADER KEIR STARMER

"When the Prime Minister puts this deal forward for a vote, Labour will vote for it. The Protocol will never be perfect.

It is a compromise.

"I have always been clear that, if implemented correctly it is an arrangement that can work in the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement. And that now it's been agreed, we all have an obligation to make it work."

NORTHERN IRELAND'S DUP PARTY LEADER JEFFREY DONALDSON

"In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.

"The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts."

"I want the assurance from the prime minister that not just now but in the future, the government of the United Kingdom will protect Northern Ireland's place within that internal market and will also allow the application of EU law to put barriers in the way of our ability to trade with the rest of our own country."

IRISH FOREIGN MINISTER MICHEAL MARTIN

"I heard first-hand the concerns of many unionists. I believe they will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns.

"I appreciate that some time may be needed to consider the detail of the deal, but I would urge political leaders in Northern Ireland to act quickly, to put in place institutions than can respond directly to the needs of the people of Northern Ireland."

FORMER BRITISH PM THERESA MAY

"The best move now is for everybody across this House to support this settlement because that is what is in the best interests of all the people of Northern Ireland."

(Reporting by William James and Farouq Suleiman, Editing by Andrew MacAskill)
Brown

Michael Mike Brown has joined Re/Max Platinum Realty as an associate in the Wellen Park office.

Brown moved to Venice from Atlanta, where he owned an architectural visualization company.

Creating three-dimensional images of proposed architectural designs, Brown has brought the ideas and dreams of his clients to life for more than 30 years  from the creation of photorealistic renderings of high-rises in Pakistan to virtual walk-throughs of museums in Atlanta.As one of the pioneers in virtual reality, Brown worked with renowned clients such as IBM, Coca-Cola, Ernst and Young, RaceTrac and a large selection of architects, as well as residential and commercial real estate developers.

DeFuria

Richard Rich DeFuria has joined Re/Max Platinum Realty as a broker-associate in the Lakewood Ranch office. He has five years of local real estate experience, specializing in residential resales and new construction.

DeFuria is a 20-year Florida resident with strengths in sales, marketing, mergers and acquisitions, and business. He is a retired registered professional engineer and former president of Tekworks Inc., in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

DeFuria received a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering from Villanova University and a Masters in Business Administration from the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Briceno

Real estate agent Leidy Briceno has joined Wagner Realtys First Street Sarasota oice and will be providing real estate services with a focus in the Sarasota County area.

Briceno is from Caracas, Venezuela, and spent more than 15 years working in journalism.

In 2016, she moved to the United States and obtained a real estate license. After living in the Chicago area, she moved to Florida and became actively involved with investment properties and remodeling.

Since she is fluent in Spanish, Briceno will be available to assist Wagner Realty clients who do not speak English.

Kwiat

Adam Kwiat has joined Re/Max Platinum Realty as a real estate agent in the downtown Sarasota office.

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He has eight years of local real estate experience, working with clients in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. With a strong knowledge of the area, he helps buyers, particularly first-time buyers, navigate the real estate transaction process as easily and quickly as possible.

Prior to his real estate career, he was an intelligence analyst with a small defense contractor in Buffalo, New York.

Kwiat has a bachelors degree in international politics, with a minor in Mandarin Chinese, from the University of Buffalo.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Re/Max agent was virtual reality pioneer, Wagner's new hire bilingual
Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan officially launched her bid for the state's open Senate seat on Monday, jumping into one of the most closely watched races of 2024.

"Look, we all know America is going through something right now," Slotkin said in the video. "We seem to be living crisis-to-crisis."

In the ad, Slotkin highlighted her time in the U.S. military, working for the CIA and for the Bush and Obama administrations.

Michigan's longtime Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow, 72, announced earlier this year that she would not seek reelection. Stabenow's call for a "new generation of leaders" was echoed by Slotkin in her campaign video.

Rep. Elissa Slotkin speaks to reporters at a press conference on Nov. 9, 2022, in East Lansing, Michigan. / Credit: BRANDON BELL / Getty Images

Stabenow's decision not to run again fueled speculation about who might run to replace her, but Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who recently moved to Michigan, Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist and Rep. Haley Stevens said over the past few weeks that they would not seek the seat.

Before Slotkin was elected to Congress, she was a Middle East analyst in the CIA and went to Iraq with the U.S. military for three tours as a militia expert. She also worked in the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and was an acting assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs.

Slotkin was first elected to Michigan's 7th Congressional District in 2018 and won reelection twice, including a tough campaign last year against Republican state Sen. Tom Barrett, who denied the results of the 2020 election. Former President Donald Trump flipped Michigan red in 2016 but the state went for President Biden in 2020. In 2022, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer led a slate of statewide Democrats to victory in Michigan, in an election with the largest turnout in a midterm year in history.

While Democrats managed to pick up a Senate seat in 2022, increasing their majority to 51-49, the seats up in 2024 are far less favorable to the party. Democrats will be forced to defend 24 seats, including in Republican-leaning states like Montana, West Virginia and Ohio. Republicans are defending only 10 seats in red states.

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Although Slotkin hung on to her battleground seat in the 2022 midterm elections, Republicans picked up enough seats to take a narrow majority in the House. Slotkin's entry into the Senate race opens up a battleground seat for House Republicans in 2024.

Aaron Navarro contributed to this report.

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New report from U.S. Energy Department on origins of COVID-19
A new watchdog report is raising concerns about the expedited hiring process for some Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical staff that was implemented during the pandemic.

After the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the VHA was short-staffed while facing a growing need.

In response, it made a change to allow some of the vetting steps in the hiring process to be completed after the new employee started the job.

It was meant to get clinical workers like doctors and nurses on the job faster to assist patients.

But a new report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is exposing potential risks because it found VHAs main hiring system isnt accurately tracking if all the screening steps have actually been completed.

There are inherent risks in bringing staff on-board that have not been fully vetted, the report said. These potential risks include the possibility that new staff who have not completed certain onboarding processes, such as receiving a fingerprint-based criminal history check, may gain access to sensitive information and controlled substances.

The structure of that process needs to be done properly, said James Moss, Assistant Director for Health Policy for Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). If its not done right, then that information, or if its not done at all, that information is either missing or incomplete and that doesnt help.

The report points to onboarding steps like verifying professional credentials, completing criminal background checks and fingerprinting.

You want to make sure youre able to track the information of all these onboarding tasks to make sure that the people that youre hiring in to treat veterans are qualified and able to provide quality care, said Sharon Silas, a Director with the Healthcare team at GAO. Even if youre expediting the process, youre still responsible for making sure that you have the correct information about these providers and have a good understanding of their history and any potential issues with them providing care to veterans.

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The GAO report lists recommended changes to make sure VHA is completing all of the hiring steps.

The recommended changes include having the Under Secretary for Health require all offices involved in the onboarding process to monitor the process and completion dates, and it calls for clear and comprehensive guidance on entering the data into the system.

In response, the VA said it agrees with the recommended changes and expects them to be fully implemented by August 2023.

Its good that the target date is for this year, said Moss. That means to me, and for organizations like the VFW, that theyre going to be looking at their processes. Not only that, theyre going to be sending out a more comprehensive mandate.

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By Jason Lange and David Morgan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. House Republicans are eyeing $150 billion in spending cuts that reflect a hardline drive to target education, healthcare and housing - particularly efforts to address racial inequities that conservatives deride as "woke" - as they push forward in talks on the federal debt ceiling.

House of Representatives Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington said Republicans are assembling a budget along the lines of a budget proposal developed by Russell Vought, who served as Republican President Donald Trump's budget chief.

"It is consistent with what's in his budget," Arrington said in an interview. The congressman, whose party controls the House, did not provide specifics of what cuts he would suggest to his fellow Republicans, who return to Washington on Monday after a two-week break.

Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy has vowed not to allow an increase in the $31.4 trillion legal limit on federal borrowing without an agreement from President Joe Biden's Democrats in Congress to rein in federal spending.

Failing to lift the debt ceiling could trigger a default on the federal government's debt that would take a heavy toll on the American and probably world economies. A prolonged 2011 debt-cap standoff led to a cut in the government's top-tier credit rating.

During Biden's State of the Union speech early this month, Republicans loudly vowed not to pursue cuts to the Social Security retirement or Medicare healthcare programs. They also mostly oppose military cuts.

That leaves them scouring only a sixth of the budget for cuts.

Arrington said the $150 billion in cuts he is eyeing would mostly hit nondefense discretionary spending, whose programs cost about $900 billion in the last fiscal year ended Sept. 30.

Even eliminating those programs wouldn't erase the roughly $1.6 trillion deficit - a measure of how far the government runs into the red each year.

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BALANCE 'ASPIRATIONAL'

That makes the conservative goal of a balanced budget within 10 years "aspirational" for now, Arrington said. Vought, whose plan also calls for $150 billion in cuts, said Democratic control of the Senate makes limited austerity more politically realistic.

"We're in divided government. So what's the easiest place to cut spending? It's the bureaucracy, and that's where we want to focus the fight," Vought said in an interview, adding that he would go after programs he considered "significantly woke and unaccountable."

Vought, who directed the Office of Management and Budget between 2019 and 2021 and now heads a conservative think tank, said the cuts he proposes would eventually slice the deficit by just a third if they were sustained for 10 years.

Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer say they will not discuss spending cuts until after the debt ceiling is raised, which is needed to cover the costs of spending and tax cuts previously approved by Congress.

Nonetheless, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in an interview the fiscal year 2024 budget Biden plans to unveil on March 9 would contain "substantial deficit reduction over the next decade."

TARGET LIST

Vought's proposals move the debate forward from the back-and-forth on Social Security and Medicare that dominated much of the past month.

He did not provide a full accounting of the proposed $150 billion in cuts, but said it included about $25 billion from the Department of Education, including what he called "woke" policies such as score-improvement programs and culturally responsive schooling.

Republicans have increasingly used "woke" as a pejorative term regarding liberal views on race, gender and sexuality, for example attacking school courses about U.S. racial injustice and LGBTQ rights.

Vought said he would seek cuts to the departments of Housing and Urban Development and Health and Human Services, as well as to foreign aid, and to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention programs aimed at preventing chronic and sexually transmitted diseases.

He said his ideas have been best received in the conservative House Freedom Caucus.

Arrington said his goal is to return domestic spending to its fiscal 2022 level, while keeping defense spending flat, in the fiscal 2024 budget proposal House Republicans aim to unveil by April 15.

He said his main priority is producing a 2024 budget that can serve as a baseline for years of spending reductions.

"You can save over $1.5 trillion over that 10 years," he said. "That's real savings."

Another Budget Committee Republican, Freedom Caucus member Ralph Norman, described in general terms a debt-ceiling playbook, backed by other conservatives, that aligned with Vought's plan.

Like other committee hardliners, Norman wants to cut nondefense discretionary spending to pre-pandemic levels. The conservatives also want to hold defense spending steady and increase outlays on security along the U.S.-Mexico border.

McCarthy spokesman Mark Bednar said federal spending growth was "entirely unsustainable, and House Republicans were elected to bring it to an end."

The House Budget Committee's top Democrat, Brendan Boyle, expressed skepticism that the hardliners' plan would win wide backing: "Republicans needed 15 rounds just to elect a speaker, so I can't imagine they will have an easy time advancing a budget that all of their members will support."

But budget committee and Freedom Caucus member Bob Good, one of 20 hardline conservatives who forced McCarthy to undergo 15 floor votes before being elected House speaker, said the political drama surrounding the speakership election should empower McCarthy to take a hard position with Biden and Schumer.

"When Kevin McCarthy says Republicans won't vote for doing what we've always done and just raising the debt ceiling without meaningful spending cuts and reforms, I think the president and the Senate majority leader will recognize that he's telling the truth," Good said.

(Reporting by Jason Lange and David Morgan, additional reporting by David Lawder in Bengaluru; Editing by Scott Malone)
Republicans are seizing on a new Energy Department conclusion pointing to a lab leak as causing the COVID-19 outbreak to call for swift action against the Chinese government, which has refused to cooperate with global probes into the pandemics origin.

The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times reported Sunday that the Energy Department had determined with low confidence that the virus was leaked from a lab, though it is unclear what new intelligence that was based on.

The lack of confidence or details on the assessment didnt stop Republicans from claiming validation and calling for urgent action against China.

Re. Chinas lab leak, being proven right doesnt matter, tweeted Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) What matters is holding the Chinese Communist Party accountable so this doesnt happen again.

Cotton has long touted the theory that COVID-19 was linked to a lab studying coronaviruses in Wuhan, China, where the outbreak began, and called for investigations into that possibility.

Earlier this month, House Republicans announced that the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic would prove the origins of COVID-19 and requested information from administration officials and others.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), who has publicly pushed the lab leak theory, as well as conspiracies surrounding COVID-19 vaccines, tweeted Conspiracy theorists  100 Media  0 on Sunday.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) also tweeted her response to the new report, saying, For years, Anthony Fauci and Biden officials called this a conspiracy.

Fauci said last year he had completely open mind about the origins of the virus.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there is not a definitive answer to where the COVID-19 pandemic originated, telling CNNs State of the Union that President Biden has directed intelligence agencies to get to the bottom of this question.

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The Energy Department assessment adds to divided opinions of U.S. agencies over the pandemics origins.

The FBI has also determined with moderate confidence that the origins of the pandemic came from a lab, while four other agencies and the National Intelligence Council believe the virus was caused by natural transmission. Two other agencies, including the CIA, are undecided, the Journal reported.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) said on Sunday that he will re-introduce legislation demanding more information on what the U.S. government has learned about the COVID outbreak.

The American people deserve the full truth about #covid origins. No more whitewash. I will again introduce legislation to make the US governments intelligence reports on covid open to the people, he tweeted.

Hawley introduced legislation in 2021 to require the Biden administration to release intelligence regarding the lab in Wuhan.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo (R), a potential 2024 presidential candidate, was among the Republicans who called on Sunday to hold the Chinese Communist Part (CCP) accountable for the reported lab leak, pointing to the new Energy assessment.

There was always enormous evidence that the Wuhan coronavirus leaked from the Wuhan lab. Im glad the Department of Energy recognizes this reality. Its past time to make the CCP pay, he said in a tweet.

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) echoed that call in a tweet.

The left spent the past 2yrs trying to censor the truth & cover up for Communist China, but the facts are undeniable, he wrote. The CCP is evil. Its virus killed millions & Xi will stop at nothing to destroy the U.S. Its time to hold this evil regime accountable.

Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) told Chuck Todd on NBCs Meet the Press that there should be extensive public hearings about the origins in Congress.

Look, this is a country that has no problem coming out and lying to the world, he said of China. I think that we need to make sure every country knows that, and then look at what the consequences could be.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Acting Director of Office of Management and Budget Russell Vought speaks during a news briefing at the White House. Alex Wong/Getty Images

As the House heads back into session, some Republicans are eyeing $150 billion in cuts.

Those spending cuts, according to Reuters, are modeled off budget proposals from Trump's former budget chief.

The cuts would likely include $25 billion off the Department of Education, and cuts to housing funding.

As Congress heads back into session, some Republicans are reportedly contemplating a plan to shave billions of dollars off federal spending by targeting "woke" policies.

Some Republicans are reportedly taking inspiration from former President Donald Trump's budget chief Russell Vought. Rep. Jodey Arrington, the chair of the House Budget Committee, told Reuters that the GOP is crafting a budget that is "consistent with what's in his budget."

That budget will shave $150 billion off spending, per Reuters, although Arrington did not specify what's on the chopping block. Broadly, nondefense spending will be in the crosshairs, and Vought told Reuters that $25 billion would be cut from "woke" policies at the Department of Education. Also on Vought's list to cut, according to Reuters and his initial proposal: Funding for housing, and programs from the CDC that are meant to help stop sexually transmitted and chronic diseases.

Deficit reduction is on the minds of both parties, although likely not in the same form. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Reuters that President Joe Biden's budget would have "substantial deficit reduction over the next decade," and that negotiation over that with Republicans is feasible  as long as it's not tied to the debt ceiling.

Currently, the federal government is facing yet another looming debt ceiling crisis, as the country could default on its debts as soon as July. Republicans, with their control of the House, are trying to wield their newfound power to potentially push through cuts to federal spending as a trade-off for a debt limit deal.

The Washington Post reported last week that Vought has been in talks with some Republican lawmakers since the start of debt ceiling negotiations. He's been pitching his 104-page budget plan, called "A Commitment to End Woke and Weaponized Government."

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His proposal addressed areas to cut spending in every federal agency. Vought wrote in the report's introduction that "America cannot be saved unless the current grip of woke and weaponized government is broken. That is the central and immediate threat facing the countrythe one that all our statesmen must rise tall to vanquish. The battle cannot wait."

"However, this woke and weaponized regime requires the resources of taxpayers to flourish and can be starved in order to dismantle it," he continued. "Of course, these spending cuts will result in significant savings for the taxpayers."

His proposals included cutting spending for food stamps, health care, and housing. He also pitched completely eliminating the federal student-loan program in a ten-year phase out period, during which he would get rid of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, which forgives student debt for government and nonprofit workers after ten years of qualifying payments.

While House Republicans have yet to pinpoint what exactly they would include in a potential debt limit deal, Arrington's budget committee released a list of ten major areas in which they would support cutting spending earlier this month  including recapturing unspent pandemic money, placing work requirements on welfare programs like SNAP, and stopping "woke-waste" projects focused on gender inclusivity.

The only thing that is clear at this point is that Republicans are still intending to leave cuts to Medicare and Social Security out of debt ceiling negotiations. Trump even advised the GOP to keep their hands off those programs, and Vought doesn't think there should be any focus on them in the first place.

"I'm tired of this focus on Social Security and Medicare, as if you're climbing a mountain and can't make any progress on that mountain until you go to the eagle's nest on the top," Vought told the Post. "You take these cuts to the American people, and you win."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Republicans up and down the ballot are working to retool their message on crime going into 2024 after the party found only limited success with the issue in the midterms.

Last week, likely presidential candidate and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) traveled to the Democratic enclaves of New York and Chicago ahead of his expected presidential campaign launch with stops at police unions. Further south and down the ballot, the Republican State Leadership Committee rolled out a wave of digital ads in Virginia hitting Democrats over opposing legislation that would charge drug dealers with homicide. And former President Trump, whos running for another White House bid in 2024, has repeatedly hammered President Biden on the issue.

The efforts come as the party looks to regain ground following the GOPs disappointing midterm elections last year.

While the GOP generally underperformed in 2022, Republicans point to New York where the party made inroads focusing on crime as a top issue. Republicans in the Empire State picked up three House seats, including the one held by then-Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Sean Patrick Maloney (N.Y.). And despite ultimately losing to Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), then-GOP gubernatorial candidate Lee Zeldin performed better than expected against the governor.

Lee Zeldin ran a one-issue campaign on the issue of crime, said one House Republican strategist. Every day he was at a metro stop or a corner store where somebody got shot or mugged.

Thats just a great case study in how effective the message can be, the strategist added.

And Democrats say they too are keenly aware of the potency of the issue going into the next election.

Democrats have learned that they need to take that issue very seriously and I hope, get ahead of it, said Jon Reinish, a New York-based Democratic strategist.

Corey Grable, an Independent who is running for president of New York Citys Police Benevolent Association, told HillTV that policies promoted by the left flank of the Democratic Party, including calls to defund the police, have put the party on the wrong side of the issue.

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As far as the Democrats, I think that unfortunately, theyve gotten out on the wrong side of the issue, Grable said. The reality is many of the policies that have been created have actually had this unintended consequence of actually hurting people that they were aiming to protect.

And Republicans have used crime to tie the majority of Democratic candidates to the left-leaning flank.

Its the clearest and easiest way for Republicans to tag Democrats to the fringe of the party, said the House Republican strategist.

But Democrats have employed a tougher-on-crime message in recent years while also acknowledging police brutality.

In his State of the Union address earlier this month, President Biden expressed support for police officers but noted the death of Tyre Nichols, an unarmed Black man who died in police custody last month.

Incumbent Democratic mayors, including Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who is running for reelection and is against defunding the police, also find themselves under pressure on the issue. A WBEZ/Chicago Sun-Times/Telemundo Chicago/NBC5 survey released earlier this month found that 44 percent of Chicago voters named crime and public safety as their most important issue, followed by criminal justice reform at 13 percent.

Lightfoot has accused some of her opponents of being supportive of defunding law enforcement on the debate stage and in ads.

Meanwhile, Republicans are also using crime and the situation at the southern border as a means to talk about the ongoing opioid crisis in the country.

Crime is the starting point, but once we dig into what issues the issues of crime [are], this is one where we believe that this is a top issue thats going to matter to voters this cycle, said one Republican operative.

And polling shows that voters are concerned about the ongoing crisis.

An Axios-Ipsos survey released on Thursday found that 26 percent of voters, a plurality in the findings, said that they view opioids as the greatest threat to public health in the U.S. Thirty-seven percent of Republican voters said the same.

Biden and Democrats have incorporated the opioid crisis into more of their rhetoric, with Biden addressing the issue at the State of the Union.

Having the president offering his own solutions which do have broad, bipartisan appeal about the opioid crisis I think was a major step in the right direction, Reinish said. Democrats have got to take the bull by the horns.

Updated at 12:19 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Gabriella Smith's "Desert Ecology" for strings and desert field recordings performed as part of "Treelogy: A Musical Portrait of California's Redwood, Sequoia and Joshua Trees" at the Soraya on Thursday. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

Ask not what trees can do for music. Thats much too obvious. Trees have made music, as pretty much most of the world knows it, possible. We bless them for having given us so many of our instruments and listening spaces. Would we have recorded music were it not for the wood that made loudspeaker cabinets?

Treelogy: A Musical Portrait of California's Redwood, Sequoia and Joshua Trees" features three new tree pieces by composers from California. Given their first performances at the Soraya on Thursday night, the works ask, instead, what music can do for trees. They arrive at a crucial moment, as for the first time in their centuries-old lives, a great many of our states enduring majestic residents face an existential threat from wildfires.

Weve changed the climate. Now what? Can three splendid pieces of music, inspired by trees, save our state? Of course not. But the real value of Treelogy is subliminal. Trees inspire art. Art serves to enhance awareness. Awareness saves the day.

Trees have always been welcome in classical music. No trees means no leafy springtime branches to start off Vivaldis eternal The Four Seasons. Opera without trees as settings is unthinkable. In order to transform a mythological nymph into a tree, Richard Strauss ended his opera Daphne with a transcendental musical photosynthesis that mimics the mystical sensation of standing under a redwood. Want to become one with nature? Bond with a tree.

Strauss has a full opera to prepare you for this epiphany. Billy Childs, Gabriella Smith and Steven Mackey, each commissioned by the Soraya to write a 25-minute piece for the string ensemble Delirium Musicum, dont have anything like that opportunity. They didnt even get program notes, only two-minute Vimeo video introductions linked to a physical or digital one page program sheet.

The new scores were played in front of large projected photos of the trees by Max Whittaker, a New York Times freelancer. Otherwise, the pieces were left to speak for themselves. Had they been heard outside the Treelogy conceptual umbrella and with different titles, the scores wouldnt exactly scream trees.

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But then again, we surround ourselves with the bounty of trees without thinking. And for a couple of hours, we thought trees. Thats stayed with me long enough to feel new gratitude for the wooden desk on which Im typing.

Childs My Roots Spread Far and Wide easily makes the communication between his improvisational jazz trio and his more formal material for the virtuosic and versatile Delirium strings. Listening to it is as gratifying as tree roots reaching out to different plant species in the forest. The piece itself, though, gave the impression of what it felt like to be with a giant sequoia in its own environment. One thing doesnt necessarily have to lead to another in a freewheeling forest.

Billy Childs on the piano in the premiere of his "My Roots Spread Far and Wide" as part of "Treelogy" at the Soraya on Thursday. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

If the full ensemble's melodies and rich harmonies could be heard as the trunk, then Childs let the leaves fall where they might in his complex and surprising piano improvisations. Root-like, the other members of Childs' trio  Dan Chmielinski on bass and Christian Euman on drums  reached out in their solos, engaging in a contrapuntal sense with various Delirium players.

Gabriella Smith, who will have a major Los Angeles Philharmonic premiere in May, went to Joshua Tree National Park and recorded the sounds of the ecosystem in which the deserts namesake trees have long thrived. Her Desert Ecology, in five sections, might be likened to 21st century Vivaldi. Like Vivaldi, she is a string player herself and fancies sound effects.

The middle movement, Sofia, for instance, starts out sounding like a hipster driving too fast on Twentynine Palms Highway. There is a thump, thump, thump in the vibrant strings. A Vivaldi-esque pulse turns into something more in the vein of Michael Nyman doing a Minimalist take on Purcell. Smith uses microtonal runs to do what bushy Joshua trees do to the landscape, namely make it weird. It is as though desert winds and dry heat re-tuned violin strings.

Smith takes not only her trees seriously but also the sound of Delirium's strings. In her delirious desert landscape, she shares a joy of place and aural sensations. This exciting young ensemble is a step ahead, ready for anything. It has a new recording of Vivaldis Four Seasons via Hans Richter and Philip Glass The American Seasons coming out next month.

Steve Mackeys Red Wood takes root, so to speak, in the way trees pass life-giving materials underground to sustain the health of the forest. A double concerto for Mackey on electric guitar, violinist and Delirium leader Etienne Gara and strings, it also reflects on the equally impressive phenomenon of fairy rings, the name for the redwoods growing in circles that are sustained by the roots of fallen trees.

In a beautifully conceived score that flows with a kind of natural ease, the guitar electrifies acoustic strings while somehow sharing kinship. Whether or not one hears trees in this, and I didnt, is hardly the point. Mackey celebrates how trees make him feel and makes you want to feel that way too.

A project of California State University, Northridge, home of the Soraya, Treelogy travels to the Cal State campuses in Chico on Tuesday and Sonoma on Thursday. The project, though, needs, like our trees, a long life, beginning with a radio broadcast or live stream of one of the performances and then a studio recording. That's the least we can do for our trees.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Rishi Sunak speaks during a joint news conference with European Commission President on a post-Brexit deal in Windsor, Britain, 27 February 2023 - CHRIS J RATCLIFFE/Shutterstock

Remainer MPs should never be allowed to forget their role in creating the mess that is the Northern Ireland Protocol. In the months before Boris Johnson signed up to the Withdrawal Agreement, it was not impossible that they would block the UK from leaving the EU at all. Parliamentarians had tied the governments hands through the so-called Surrender Act, which effectively removed the option of a no-deal Brexit. Sir Keir Starmer was agitating for a second referendum, while Theresa May had salted the earth through her earlier, bungled negotiations with Brussels.

The Protocol was, therefore, the very definition of an unequal treaty. The Johnson government managed to win concessions on the original May accord, but the UK had been left in a debilitatingly weak position vis-a-vis the EU negotiators. Accepting a deal that would constrain trade between constituent parts of the UK while seeing Northern Ireland subject to EU law was judged to be a price worth paying to get Brexit done.

It was never going to be the end of the matter, however  as even the high priests of EU dogma in Brussels came to see. Ursula von der Leyen attempted yesterday to pose as a guardian of the peace process. Not so long ago, however, her administration took the outrageous decision to briefly invoke Article 16 of the Protocol as part of its desperate efforts to make up for its failure to procure enough Covid vaccines. The present crisis was brought to a head by the DUP exiting power-sharing in protest at the Protocol, jeopardising the very Good Friday Agreement that the EU claims to protect.

This was the muddle that Rishi Sunak took it upon himself to clear up. For a time, it appeared that his answer  the Windsor Framework, which had been expected last week  would be pulled before it was even released. Yesterday, he decided to move, announcing a decisive breakthrough and a step change in relations with the EU.

In technical terms, it does appear to be an improvement on the original deal. Trade should flow more freely between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, with theoretically only goods destined for the EU market subject to onerous customs checks. The Prime Minister stressed that this should end the ridiculous situation wherein supermarkets in the province faced empty shelves because of difficulties importing produce from the mainland.

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Westminster will also gain the ability to decide on VAT rates for Northern Ireland: last year, Mr Sunak, then chancellor of the Exchequer, could not hide his frustration that his zero-rating of energy efficiency materials would not apply in the province. It is astonishing to think that a British government ever conceded the right to set tax rates in part of its territory to a foreign power.

The third element is the Stormont brake, which Mr Sunak said would safeguard the sovereignty of the people of Northern Ireland. The Prime Minister suggested that this would allow the Northern Ireland Assembly to stop changes to EU goods rules applying in the province: If the brake is pulled, the UK Government will have a veto. Unionists quite justifiably worry that Northern Ireland has been turned into an effective colony of the European Union, subject to laws over which it has no say. It remains to be seen whether the Prime Ministers brake will in practice fix this.

Nobody wishes to make the perfect the enemy of the good. If the Protocol is indeed a little less dysfunctional than it was, then it is a credit to Mr Sunak that he has made it so. Conservative MPs, as they pour over the legal texts to understand these changes, will not want to oppose them unnecessarily. However, big questions do appear to have been left unresolved. The European Court of Justice, for example, is not just any old court. It is the ultimate guardian of EU law, and has flagrantly used its position to push the Eurocrats federalising agenda. Its malign influence has not been banished from Northern Ireland.

The Protocol creates problems for the rest of the United Kingdom, too. It acts as an argument against diverging from EU rules, because to do so risks creating an even greater regulatory barrier between two parts of the United Kingdom. Mr Sunak chose not to follow the course some Brexiteers had wanted him to take, of abrogating the Protocol unilaterally.

It is clear why. The Prime Minister yesterday heralded a new era of more constructive ties with Brussels. Mrs von der Leyen even linked progress on the Protocol to a potential agreement for the UK on Horizon, the EU science programme. It was not hard to draw the inference from the Commission president that Mr Sunak had succeeded where his predecessors had failed, because he had chosen to prioritise friendlier relations with the European Union.

But friendlier relations to what end? The UK did not leave the EU in order to create enemies. Many Brexiteers had hoped that, in time, ties with Europe would become more cordial rather than less, based on mutual advantage rather than compulsion.

Rishi Sunak played a difficult hand well yesterday: it was arguably his best day yet as Prime Minister. But now he awaits the crucial response of the DUP and the Brexiteers. Time will tell if he has pulled off a political triumph.
Investors are often guided by the idea of discovering 'the next big thing', even if that means buying 'story stocks' without any revenue, let alone profit. But the reality is that when a company loses money each year, for long enough, its investors will usually take their share of those losses. While a well funded company may sustain losses for years, it will need to generate a profit eventually, or else investors will move on and the company will wither away.

So if this idea of high risk and high reward doesn't suit, you might be more interested in profitable, growing companies, like Robert Half International (NYSE:RHI). While profit isn't the sole metric that should be considered when investing, it's worth recognising businesses that can consistently produce it.

Check out our latest analysis for Robert Half International

Robert Half International's Earnings Per Share Are Growing

If you believe that markets are even vaguely efficient, then over the long term you'd expect a company's share price to follow its earnings per share (EPS) outcomes. That makes EPS growth an attractive quality for any company. We can see that in the last three years Robert Half International grew its EPS by 16% per year. That growth rate is fairly good, assuming the company can keep it up.

Top-line growth is a great indicator that growth is sustainable, and combined with a high earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margin, it's a great way for a company to maintain a competitive advantage in the market. Robert Half International maintained stable EBIT margins over the last year, all while growing revenue 12% to US$7.2b. That's progress.

You can take a look at the company's revenue and earnings growth trend, in the chart below. For finer detail, click on the image.

In investing, as in life, the future matters more than the past. So why not check out this free interactive visualization of Robert Half International's forecast profits?

Are Robert Half International Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

Owing to the size of Robert Half International, we wouldn't expect insiders to hold a significant proportion of the company. But we do take comfort from the fact that they are investors in the company. Indeed, they have a considerable amount of wealth invested in it, currently valued at US$220m. This suggests that leadership will be very mindful of shareholders' interests when making decisions!

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Does Robert Half International Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist?

One important encouraging feature of Robert Half International is that it is growing profits. For those who are looking for a little more than this, the high level of insider ownership enhances our enthusiasm for this growth. These two factors are a huge highlight for the company which should be a strong contender your watchlists. What about risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Robert Half International (of which 1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) you should know about.

There's always the possibility of doing well buying stocks that are not growing earnings and do not have insiders buying shares. But for those who consider these important metrics, we encourage you to check out companies that do have those features. You can access a free list of them here.

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

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.

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Ron DeSantis has taken over the governing structure for Disney World following a political battle between the corporate giant and Floridas Republican governor and conservative state lawmakers over a controversial measure that opponents have derided as the states Dont Say Gay law.

Following weeks of pressure from LGBT+ advocates and Disney employees urging company leadership to publicly lobby against it, then-CEO Bob Chapek announced last year that the company would oppose the bill and suspend its political donations in the state.

The Parental Rights in Education Act prohibits instruction of sexual orientation or gender identity from kindergarten through the third grade and any such discussion that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in other grades.

But the broadly written law could freeze classroom speech involving LGBT+ people and issues, from civil rights history lessons to discussion of LGBT+ students, school staff and their families, which oppoents warn will have a discriminatory and chilling effect on campus speech. Following passage of the Florida law, 38 similar measures have been proposed in 20 states, including 26 measures in 14 states in their current legislative sessions alone.

After Disneys public objection, Governor DeSantis and members of his administration lashed out at the company, igniting a feud that escalated to Republican threats to punish Disneys operations in the state and ultimately resulted in his administration taking control of them.

The feud between Disney and the DeSantis administration and his Republican allies has blown up what has otherwise been a close relationship with one of the states largest employers and government officials from both parties.

The political heavyweight sends several lobbyists to Tallahassee for legislative sessions and spends tens of thousands of dollars through many Disney entities to both Democratic and Republican legislators each election cycle, acccording to campaign finance reports.

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Campaign finance records reviewed by The Independent found that Disney entities contributed thousands of dollars to the re-election campaigns of the primary sponsors of the Parental Rights in Education Act, as well as at least $50,000 to the governors 2022 re-election campaign, despite the companys public LGBT+ advocacy.

At an event on 27 February, the governor signed a bill that amounts to a state takeover of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, the governing body around Disney World properties in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista spanning 39 square miles and land across Orange and Osceola counties.

The district, implemented in 1967, allows Disney to effectively control its own land use and zoning rules and operate its own public services, including water, sanitation, emergency services and infrastructure maintenance.

With Disney as the primary landowner for the district, the company is largely responsible for all costs of those municipal services that otherwise would fall under the jurisdiction of county and local governments, including the taxpayers who live within them, an arrangement that essentially eases the burden from neighbouring counties and places it on one of the largest companies in the world. In effect, Disney taxes itself to foot the districts bill for all of its municipal needs.

Today, the corporate kingdom finally comes to an end, the governor said inside a Reedy Creek fire station in Lake Buena Vista on 27 February. Theres a new sheriff in town and accountability will be the order of the day.

Marking a public reversal of his initial reasons behind the takeover, Governor DeSantis said the measure is aimed at what he called a movement within the corporation itself  that said its their job or its their goal to inject a lot of this sexuality into the programming for young kids.

On 19 April 2022, Republican state Rep Randy Fine introduced House Bill 3C, the Independent Special Districts bill. A companion measure, Senate Bill 4C, was introduced in the state Senate.

The governor and his administration insisted that the initial proposal merely intended to block what they called special privileges for big business in the state, though his campaign fundraising messages promoting Reedy Creeks demise pointed to Disneys woke opposition to the so-called Dont Say Gay bill.

Disney thought they ruled Florida, an email from his campaign on 19 April said. They even tried to attack me to advance their woke agenda. Now, parents see Disney for what it is. And now is the time to put the power back in the hands of Floridians and out of the pockets of woke executives.

State lawmakers bristled over the governors initial plans to dissolve Reedy Creek over concerns that doing so would violate state law and burden Florida residents with higher property taxes, effectively forcing them to pay for infrastructure projects like road construction that Disney currently pays for through Reedy Creek.

Instead, the governors own appointees will be in charge of the district and its powers to tax, build and borrow money under a new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.

That board will meet next week, so buckle up, Governor DeSantis said.

There will be no additional tax burden on any Floridian in central Florida or otherwise, the governor pledged on Monday, adding that the new arrangement will reduce the tax burden for people in central Florida.

(AP)

Orlando-area Democratic state Rep Anna Eskamani said in a statement that it is absolutely wild to see a self-proclaimed capitalist like DeSantis celebrate the government takeover of a private board.

All this bill does is rename Reedy Creek and allow Governor DeSantis to appoint hostile conservative cronies to a new board, she said. Disney still maintains the same tax breaks  but their First Amendment rights have been suppressed, and it sends a message to any private individual or company that if you dont purport to what the governor wants, then youll be punished.

Among the governors appointees include a donor who gave the DeSantis campaign $50,000 in 2022 and supported the governors efforts to remove an elected state attorney from office.

The governor also announced that he will appoint the CEO of a right-wing ministry and founder of the right-wing activist group Moms for Liberty that the governor has supported to transform local school boards.

Ms Eskamani and opponents have called on the governor to instead support legislation that would close corporate tax loopholes instead, but this was never about tax policy or corporate accountability, she added.

This was always about DeSantis and his sick agenda to target already marginalized people, and silent dissent.

Jeff Vahle, the president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement that the company was ready to work within this new framework, and we will continue to innovate, inspire and bring joy to the millions of guests who come to Florida to visit Walt Disney World each year.
Rupert Murdoch admitted during a sworn deposition that top personalities at Fox News promoted a baseless narrative that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Donald Trump, according to a recent filing in a voting machine companys billion-dollar lawsuit against the network.

The chair of the right-wing media empire said that hosts including Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs, Sean Hannity and Jeanine Pirro endorsed at times this false notion of a stolen election, claims that former president and his allies continue to amplify as he seeks re-election to office in 2024.

I would have liked us to be stronger in denouncing it in hindsight, Mr Murdoch said, according to court documents.

His remarks follow a revealing 192-page filing in Dominion Voting Systems $1.6bn defamation lawsuit against the network, a bombshell document that compiles testimony and messages from Fox News employees that piece together how the network aired evidence-free claims about election irregularities to keep viewers enthralled with conspiracy theories against their own private admissions that, in their words, was nonsense and bull****.

The latest filing reveals that Mr Murdoch and Fox leadership met days after Election Day in November 2020 over concerns of mounting viewer backlash to Fox after the network correctly predicted Mr Biden won the state of Arizona but agreed to air wild claims that the election was stolen from Mr Trump as positive impressions of Fox News among our viewers dropped precipitously after Election Day to the lowest levels weve ever seen.

Despite the networks top officials and widely watched anchors privately ackowledging that then-president Trump and his allies were lying, the network continued to bring them on air to amplify those claims, which also energised competing right-wing media networks that appared to threaten Fox viewership, according to court documents.

Paul Ryan, the former Republican House Speaker who serves on the Fox Corporation board of directors, said in a deposition that he told Mr Murdoch and his son Lachlan Murdoch, the executive chair and chief executive officer of Fox Corporation, that Fox News should not be spreading conspiracy theories and instead should pivot away from the former president and stop spouting election lies.

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On 5 November, 2020, Mr Hannity told wrongly told viewers that it would ne impossible to ever know the true, fair, accurate election results. A deposition from Foxs chief legal officer Viet Dinh claims that he warned Fox Corporation leadership at the time that Mr Hannity is getting awfully close to the line with his commentary and guests tonight.

According to the previous filing from Dominion, Mr Murdoch told Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott on 6 November, 2020 that it would be very hard to credibly cry foul everywhere with Mr Trumps losses in several swing states.

He also wrote if Trump becomes a sore loser we should watch Sean [Hannity] especially and others dont sound the same.

That message was forwarded to Meade Cooper, the executive vice president of the networks primetime programming, which includes programmes hosted by Mr Hannity, Mr Carlson and Ms Piro, among others.

Ms Cooper testified that, as of 6 November, 2020, going on television to say that the election is being stolen  would not be based in fact at that point.

But that same day, Sidney Powell, who was instrumental in advancing Mr Trumps spurious legal battle to overturn election results, appeared on Lou Dobbs Tonight to float a version of a bogus election manipulation conspiracy theory.

Her appearance prompted Fox News host Bret Baier to immediately ask Fox President Jay Wallace: What is this? Oh man.

The following day, network executives were made aware that 4chan users were calling on users to spread baseless election fraud claims and conspiracy theories. That same day, an editorial in Mr Murdochs The New York Post called on Mr Trump to stop the stolen election rhetoric and get Rudy Giuliani off TV.

Ms Powell was invited back to Fox News that same week, appearing on Maria Bartiromos Sunday Morning Futures on 8 November, 2020,

I know there were voting irregularities. Tell me about that, Ms Bartiromo said on the network.

Ms Powell falsely said Dominion used algorithms as part of a massive and coordinated effort to steal the 2020 presidential election from Mr Trump.

Ms Bartiromo did not tell her viewers the source of those claims, which Ms Powell shared with her in an email one day earlier that even she said came from a person she described as a wackadoodle.

Who am I? And how do I know all of this?  Ive had the strangest dreams since I was a little girl  I was internally decapitated, and yet, I live.  The Wind tells me Im a ghost, but I dont believe it.

That email, which was also shared with Mr Dobbs, alleged that Dominion was the one common thread in specious claims about voting irregularities.

In her deposition in the Dominion lawsuit, Ms Bartiromo agreed that the email was nonsense.

A filing from lawyers for Fox News this month claimed that a reasonable viewer would have understood that the networks hosts were not espousing the presidents allegations themselves, but were providing a forum for the principal architects of those legal challenges. Those challenges were defeated, dismissed and roundly rejected in court and by election officials from both parties.

Members of Mr Trumps legal team, including Ms Powell, Rudy Giuliani and John Eastman, have faced disciplinary and ethics charges in the wake of their failed efforts to overturn voting results from millions of Americans who participated in 2020 elections.
Lachlan Murdoch, left, and Rupert Murdoch at the U.S. Open in New York in 2018. (Adrian Edwards / GC Images)

New court documents show that Rupert Murdoch and his top lieutenants at Fox News were aware that former President Trump's claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election were false, but agreed to give them continued coverage in an effort to keep unhappy viewers from fleeing.

The stunning revelations based on deposition testimony were in a brief filed Monday in a Delaware state court by Dominion Voting Systems, the latest salvo in the company's $1.6-billion defamation suit against the conservative news network.

The testimony by Murdoch and others at the company will add powerful evidence to what many 1st Amendment attorneys have said is among the strongest cases they have seen against a media organization. Dominion needs to prove that Fox News was reckless in knowingly spreading false information to show that the network acted with malice.

Fox News has maintained that its coverage and commentary of Trump's false allegations were newsworthy and therefore protected under the 1st Amendment.

In his depositions, Murdoch acknowledged that he had the power to keep Trump lawyers Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell from appearing on Fox News, where they spread misinformation about election fraud and falsely accused Dominion of using its machines to manipulate votes. But he chose not to exercise that power, even though behind the scenes he and others were aware that Trump's legal team was spreading lies and even questioned their sanity, according to the deposition.

When asked as to whether he could have said to Fox News Media Chief Executive Suzanne Scott and the network's hosts, "stop putting Rudy Giuliani on the air, Murdoch replied, "I could have. But I didn't."

Murdoch acknowledged that he was mindful of antagonizing Trump-supporting Fox News viewers who were angry over the result of the election. Fox News was the first network on election night to call Arizona for Joe Biden.

Trump had a very large following, and they were probably mostly viewers of Fox, so it would have been stupid, Murdoch said in his testimony.

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The filing also reveals that Fox Corp. board member Paul Ryan warned the Murdochs that Fox News should not be spreading conspiracy theories, according to testimony from the former Republican speaker of the House.

We are entering a truly bizarre phase of this where [Trump] has actually convinced himself of this farce and will do more bizarre things to de-legitimize the election," Ryan told the Murdochs. "I see this as a key inflection point for Fox, where the right thing and the smart business thing to do line up nicely.

In a statement, Fox News said Dominion is taking "an extreme, unsupported view of defamation law that would prevent journalists from basic reporting and their efforts to publicly smear Fox for covering and commenting on allegations by a sitting President of the United States should be recognized for what it is: a blatant violation of the 1st Amendment.

The filing provides an extraordinary glimpse into the operations of Fox News, where network executives intensely debated how to debunk Trump's false claims without agitating viewers, some of whom were flocking to upstart conservative network Newsmax, which was far more sympathetic to the falsehoods. Murdoch's son Lachlan, Fox Corp.'s chief executive, testified that he would lie awake at night worrying about Fox News ratings.

On Jan. 5, Murdoch and Scott discussed whether hosts Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and Laura Ingraham should say some version of The election is over and Joe Biden won. Murdoch said he believed those words would go a long way to stop the Trump myth that the election was stolen.

Scott told Murdoch that privately they are all there, but we need to be careful about using the shows and pissing off the viewers.

No statement was made that night, and the next day, Jan. 6, Trump-supporting rioters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to stop the electoral vote count.

Dominion filed a motion for summary judgment on Feb. 16 that outlined how Fox News anchors and executives privately dismissed the claims of voter fraud and found no evidence to support them, but continued to give a platform on their programs to Trump lawyers and surrogates who presented wildly false allegations.

Fox News anchors and executives privately described Powell and Giuliani as nuts and crazy, even as they continued to give them airtime. They even criticized their own anchors, including Maria Bartiromo and Jeanine Pirro, who they believed were influenced by Trump advocates touting conspiracy theories. Those included unfounded claims that Dominion was a key player in a rigged election by manipulating vote counts and suggestions that it was owned and controlled by the Venezuelan government.

As the case moves forward, the inner workings at Fox News are being exposed through texts, emails and deposition testimony, presenting a picture of an operation panicked over how Trump supporters in its audience would abandon the network.

A hearing on the motions is scheduled for March 21. If the case goes to trial, it would begin in mid-April.

Fox News filed a brief Monday in opposition to Dominion that cited deposition testimony by Murdoch that he is not directly involved in making editorial decisions on the network and that Scott was responsible.

"I appointed Ms. Scott to the job ... and I delegate everything to her, Murdoch testified.

The brief also said that just because a number of executives and anchors disbelieved Trump's fraud claims does not mean it was defamatory to report on them.

"Dominion cannot establish actual malice by relying upon skepticism of persons at Fox News who were not responsible for the allegedly defamatory statements," the brief said. "It is hardly unusual that some people in a newsroom (with the diverse political viewpoints one would expect) will disbelieve the allegations and hope that they ultimately prove false, while others will keep an open mind in hopes that they prove true."

In a statement, Dominion said the company "is a strong believer in the 1st Amendment and its protections. As long-settled law makes clear, the 1st Amendment does not shield broadcasters that knowingly or recklessly spread lies.

Times staff writer Meg James contributed to this report.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine remarks that Russia is changing its tactics of using missiles against Ukraine.

Source: Defence Intelligence of Ukraine on Telegram; Andrii Cherniak, spokesperson of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, in a commentary for RBK-Ukraine news agency

Quote: "Firstly, they are indeed learning from their mistakes. Secondly, they are running out not only of high-precision missiles but of missile armament in general."

Details: Moscow has less than 100 high-precision cruise missiles left, which are most frequently being used during the attacks  Kalibr, X-101, X-555.

Cherniak specified that, in fact, Russia still has thousands of missiles but they are using more missiles than they are manufacturing (Russians are able to manufacture not more than 30-40 missiles per month  ed.).

Old missiles they have in service either do not reach their targets due to malfunctioning or have a limited damage radius.

Defence Intelligence also reports that 95% of the Russian ground forces one way or another participate in the aggression against Ukraine but do not achieve strategic success so the occupiers decided to increase their offensive potential by using aircrafts more frequently.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air defence is being strengthened every day, and taking into consideration the fact that the Air Forces of Ukraine learned to shoot down missiles and kamikaze drones, it will be even easier to shoot down aircrafts.

The Russian army did not give up the idea of destroying the power system of Ukraine, as well as its fuel and energy sector in order to stop the supply of oil products.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Russia will likely be concerned about explosions in Mariupol, as it considers this zone to be unreachable by regular Ukrainian attack means.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence, as European Pravda reports

Details: Since 21 February 2023, pro-Russian officials have reported at least 14 explosions around the Russian-occupied city of Mariupol.

Sites of the incidents have included an ammo cache at the airport, two fuel depots, and a steel works that Russia uses as a military base. Mariupol lies at least 80 kilometres away from the contact line.

Quote: "Russia will likely be concerned that unexplained explosions are occurring in a zone it had probably previously assessed as beyond the range of routine Ukrainian strike capabilities."

More details: Although widely devastated earlier in the war, Mariupol is important to Russia because it is the largest city Russia captured in 2022 that it still controls, and sits on a key logistics route.

Background: UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak believes that long-range weapons and increased support for Ukraine may accelerate a decisive advantage of Ukrainian troops on the battlefield.

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The occupiers believed that Mariupol was beyond the limits of the strikes of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The MoD stated that strikes were recorded on the ammunition warehouse at the Mariupol airport, on two fuel warehouses, and at a metallurgical plant which Russia uses as a military base.

Read also: Russian invaders send 150 collaborators from occupied Mariupol to front, says mayoral advisor

Since Feb. 21, 2023, pro-Russian officials have reported at least 14 explosions around the Russian-occupied city of Mariupol.

Intelligence reminds that Mariupol is at a distance of at least 80 km from the front line.

Read also: Three new explosions recorded in occupied Mariupol: Russian bases, airport area hit

Russia will likely be concerned that unexplained explosions are occurring in a zone it had probably previously assessed as beyond the range of routine Ukrainian strike capabilities, the report said.

The ministry noted that although widely devastated earlier in the war, Mariupol is important to Russia because it is the largest city Russia captured in 2022 that it still controls, and sits on a key logistics route.

Mariupol mayoral advisor Petro Andryushchenko reported several explosions in Mariupol on Feb. 23. The day before, he said that the Armed Forces destroyed two fuel warehouses in Mariupol. Mariupol City Hall also reported Ukrainian strikes against an enemy ammo dump in the area of Mariupols seaport.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russia is not ready for a long-term war due to limited resources, although it tries to demonstrate the opposite.

Source: Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Major General Kyrylo Budanov, in an interview with Voice of America [a state-owned news network and international radio broadcaster of the United States of America  ed.]

Quote: "Russia is not ready for long-term hostilities. I tell you this as the chief of an intelligence agency. They show in every way possible that they are ready to wage a "war for decades", but in fact their resources are quite limited. Both in time and in scope. And they are perfectly aware of this."

Details: When asked whether the Russian side is in a hurry now, he answered: "Everyone will be in a hurry soon".

Budanov also emphasised that the next three months will be "very active" and will determine the further course of events. When asked whether it is about Donetsk, Luhansk oblasts or the south, he answered: "Absolutely everywhere".

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Annalena Baerbock

Speaking at the Conference for the Reduction and Limitation of Armaments in Geneva, Switzerland, Baerbock emphasized that back in January 2022, Russia, together with other members of the P5 Group (the five permanent members of the UN Security Council), issued a joint statement on preventing a nuclear war and avoiding an arms race.

Read also: German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv

In the statement, the five UN nuclear states point out that a nuclear war cannot be won and can never be unleashed, and express the firm belief that further proliferation of such weapons must be prevented.

(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putins announcement is irresponsible, Baerbock said.

And its just the latest in a series of blows that Russia has inflicted on the architecture of arms control.

Read also: Russia has not repositioned its nuclear forces after abandoning START I  Pentagon

The minister also called on partners to dialogue with Putin.

Lets together call on President Putin to return to the START I and the dialogue regarding it with the United States, Baerbock stressed.

I absolutely believe were all interested in it... At a time when a nuclear state violates the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, negotiating forums such as the Geneva Conference for the Reduction and Limitation of Armaments are more important than ever.

Read also: Chinas peace plan, Zelenskyys speech, UN resolution calls for Russia to withdraw

Read also: Germany takes Putin's nuclear threats seriously, says FM Baerbock

The German minister noted that disarmament and arms control remain a key security component.

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin announced on Feb. 21 that Russia suspended its participation in the START I.

This was the only major nuclear arms control treaty between Russia and the U.S.

Russias Federation Council voted the relevant bill on Feb. 22.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called such a decision regrettable and irresponsible, while NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called on Russia to reconsider their decision.

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Russia was also one of the signatories of the Budapest Memorandum, which guaranteed respect for Ukraines borders and sovereignty, as well as protection, in exchange for giving up nuclear weapons.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Chinese buyers of Russian oil are seeking to avoid reputation damage, one analyst said. ALEXEI DRUZHININ/Getty Images

The Kremlin said the conditions are not right to pursue China's plan for peace in Ukraine.

China introduced a peace plan last week, which has been met with skepticism by the West.

The US has warned that Beijing could provide weapons to Russia to use in Ukraine.

The Kremlin on Monday threw cold water on China's peace plan for the Ukraine war, suggesting now is not the time to pursue such a proposal.

"We paid a lot of attention to our Chinese friends' plan," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Monday, per the Moscow Times. "For now, we don't see any of the conditions that are needed to bring this whole story towards peace," he added.

This development came after the Russian Foreign Ministry on Friday thanked Beijing for the new proposal but underscored that any peace deal would need to recognize "new territorial realities" in Ukraine.

In September, Russian President Vladimir Putin illegally annexed four Ukrainian regions and claimed them as part of Russia. Moscow also claims control over Crimea, a peninsula on the Black Sea that Russia illegally annexed after invading Ukraine in 2014.

Ukraine has maintained it would not agree to any peace deal requiring it to cede territory to Russia. China's peace plan calls for the territorial integrity of all countries to be upheld but does not push for Russian troops to leave occupied Ukrainian territories.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not reject China's proposal outright but responded with caution. As Ukraine marked the one year anniversary of the Russian invasion on Friday, Zelenskyy said that he wanted to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to discuss the plan.

"I believe that the fact that China started talking about Ukraine is not bad," Zelenskyy said at a news conference, according to the Associated Press. "But the question is what follows the words. The question is in the steps and where they will lead to."

China has claimed to be neutral when it comes to the war in Ukraine, but Western critics have scoffed at this notion and accused Beijing of tacitly endorsing Russia's unprovoked invasion. China, which tends to side with Russia on geopolitical issues, has said it has a "no limits" partnership with Moscow. Beijing has avoided criticizing Russia over the invasion of Ukraine while criticizing the West for issuing sanctions against Moscow in response to the war. Meanwhile, Chinese state media has echoed the Kremlin's propaganda about the conflict.

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As the war in Ukraine enters its second year, Beijing is seemingly taking a more active approach to the war in Ukraine  and the West has taken notice. Amid historic tensions between Washington and Beijing, the Biden administration has been particularly critical of the Chinese government as Beijing shifts toward increased involvement.

US President Joe Biden in an interview that aired on Sunday told ABC that China's plan would overwhelmingly benefit Russia. "I've seen nothing in the plan that would indicate that there is something that would be beneficial to anyone other than Russia if the Chinese plan were followed," Biden said.

China's peace plan was also unveiled days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that Beijing could send lethal weapons to Russia to be used in Ukraine. The CIA has also issued warnings along these lines.

"We're confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment," CIA Director Bill Burns told CBS News in an interview that aired Friday.

Burns also said that China had not yet made a "final decision" on whether to provide Moscow with lethal aid.

China has firmly rejected claims it's considering sending arms to Russia while accusing the US of fueling the war by providing weapons to Ukraine.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Oil tanker, illustrative photo

Read also: EU prepares to sanction Russias shadow fleet of oil tankers

Analysts suspect that some of that cargo later gets resold in Europe.

In particular, Morocco, which imported about 600,000 barrels of Russian diesel throughout 2021, surged to 2 million barrels imported in January 2023, with another 1.2 million barrels expected to arrive by the end of February.

Tunisia, which imported virtually no Russian oil products in 2021, bought 2.8 million barrels of Russian oil products in January and is expected to import another 3.1 million barrels in February.

Algeria and Egypt also recently saw a surge in the import of oil products from the Russian Federation.

The increased imports to Tunisia and Morocco coincided with an uptick in their own refined-product exports, raising concerns that Russian cargoes were being blended with other oil products and re-exported, the article reads.

Read also: Russia blocks operation of grain corridor and transports military cargo on merchant ships, says Ukraine

That process disguises the ultimate origin of the products and complicates Western efforts to remove Russian fossil fuels from their economies.

Morocco, which previously did not have a significant export of diesel, in January sent 280,000 barrels of diesel to the Spanish Canary Islands and another 270,000 barrels to Turkey, which coincided with the influx of Russian state-owned enterprises in Morocco. The origin of these diesel supplies could not be established.

Read also: Fired deputy economy minister to become top manager of state oil company

The oil ministries of Morocco and Tunisia did not respond to requests for comment.

Previously, it was reported that the Russian Federation is transshipping millions of barrels of Russian oil and oil products off the coast of Greece in order to bypass EU sanctions.

Read also: Oil tankers with unknown owners being amassed to ship Russian oil, Bloomberg reports

In October 2022, Bloomberg wrote that a shadow fleet of tankers was being formed globally to transport Russian oil.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russian aircraft A-50

The sabotage was organized by Belarusian partisans, the head of the Belarusian opposition initiative BYPOL, Alexander Azarov, said in a comment to Nasha Niva publication.

Read also: Ukraine yet to sever diplomatic ties with Belarus

According to him, the organizers of the attack have successfully fled the country.

Hajun also noted that the security forces of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenkos regime found a bag with drone control equipment.

The monitoring group added that the Russian A-50 is a fairly handy target due to its large (over 10 meters in diameter) fiberglass dome, which houses a rotating antenna, part of the Bumblebee radar complex.

Read also: Ukrainian strikes on ammunition depots in Russia not excluded, says military intelligence

As a result of the attack, the front and central parts of the aircraft were damaged, as well as the avionics and the radar antenna. The aircraft will no longer be able to function.

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Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has reported attacks by the Russian invaders on the settlement of Kurakhivka in Donetsk Oblast; one person was killed.

Source: Yermak on Telegram

Quote: "Russians are shelling Kurakhivka in Kurakhiv hromada [an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories  ed.] There is information about one killed civilian. The attack continues."

Background: Pavlo Kyrylenko, Head of Donetsk Oblast Military Administration, says Russian troops carried out two airstrikes on Myrnohrad on 27 February. Russians used the S-300 missile system to attack; four houses and a stadium were damaged. According to preliminary reports, there are no casualties.

On the Volnovakha front, Russian troops attack Vuhledar, Novoukrainka, and Bohoyavlenka.

On the Donetsk front, occupiers attacked Kurakhiv hromada, one civilian was injured and four houses were damaged in Hirnyk; a house and a shop were damaged in Hostre, and one more house was damaged in Kurakhivka.

Shelling was observed at night in Marinka and Ocheretyne hromadas.

There were several strikes in Avdiivka during the night, and two more massive attacks on residential and industrial zones in the morning.

On the Horlivka front, one civilian was injured, and three houses were damaged in Kostiantynivka. One more house was damaged in Predtechyne.

Over the course of the past 24 hours, nine high-rise buildings and a kindergarten were damaged in Bakhmut. Six houses were damaged in Vasyukivka in Soledar hromada.

On the Lysychansk front, attacks on Siversk and the namesake hromadas outskirts were observed.

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Russian attacks were reported in Khmelnytskyi, Kyiv, Donetsk, Kherson, Kharkiv, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk and Luhansk oblasts in the west, east, south, and north of Ukraine in the past 24 hours.

According to local authorities, three people were killed, and eight were wounded.

Russia launched 14 Iranian-made Shahed drones to attack Ukraine overnight on Feb. 27, eleven of which were shot down, according to the Air Force. Ukrainian air defense downed nine drones over Kyiv, city military administration reported.

Russian forces hit the western city of Khmelnytskyi with the drones, killing one person and injuring four more, Mayor Oleksandr Symchyshyn said on Telegram. Later Governor Serhii Hamalii reported that one of the wounded had died in the hospital.

Russian troops struck Kherson Oblast 97 times using multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), mortars, tanks, drones, and artillery, Kherson Oblast Military Administration reported on Feb. 27. The attacks killed one person and wounded two more, according to the administration.

Russian attacks injured two people in Donetsk Oblast's settlements of Hirnyk and Zoriane, Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko wrote.

Russia hit 13 settlements and three communities in the region, damaging 20 houses, nine high-rises, a stadium, a shop, and a kindergarten, according to Kyrylenko.

Three districts of Kharkiv Oblast were targeted with artillery and mortars in the past day, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. In Vovchansk, a Russian projectile hit a house yard, wounding a 73-year-old man, and another house was damaged in the village of Kurylivka, the governor reported.

The Russian military also attacked the Nikopol district in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast at night, damaging eight houses, an outbuilding, a car, gas pipelines, and power lines, according to Governor Serhii Lysak. No casualties were reported.

Russia hit a civilian infrastructure facility in the city of Zaporizhzhia overnight, said Anatolii Kurtiev, acting city mayor. There were no casualties, he added.

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Zaporizhzhia regional state administration reported that civilian infrastructure in 15 settlements in Zaporizhzhia Oblast was under Russian fire. Local authorities received three reports about the damages to citizens' households and infrastructure sites due to Russian attacks.

Russian troops shelled the Ochakiv and Kutsurub communities on the Black Sea coast in Mykolaiv Oblast with mortars and artillery on Feb. 26-27, said Vitalii Kim, the oblast governor. No casualties were reported.

Late on Feb. 26, Russian troops used mortars to strike the Krasnopillia community in Sumy Oblast bordering Russia, the regional military administration reported. There were no casualties or damage.

Russia launched artillery and air strikes against seven settlements in Luhansk Oblast, the regional state administration wrote. It didn't provide information on casualties or damage.

In Chernihiv Oblast, Russian troops hit the village of Yeline near the Russian-Ukrainian border on Feb. 26, according to the Northern Operational Command of Ukraine's Armed Forces. The General Staff later reported Russian attacks on two other settlements in the region.


Mobilized Russians in Omsk, January 2023

ISW analysts claim that the specter of limitless Russian manpower is a myth, recalling Putin has already been forced to make difficult and suboptimal choices to offset the terrible losses his war has inflicted on the Russian military.

Read also: Putin unexpectedly mentions the risk of Russias collapse

At most, the dictator will face similarly difficult choices in 2023 if he persists in his determination to use military force to impose his will on Ukraine and the West.

Read also: Putins latest address failed to articulate specific goals for war in Ukraine, says ISW

Russia can mobilize more manpower, and Putin will likely do so rather than give up, the ISW writes.

But the costs to Putin and Russia of the measures he will likely need to take at this point will begin to mount rapidly. Putins clear efforts to prepare the Russian people for a protracted and painful war suggest that he has realized that only the Russian (Ministry of Defense) can actually sustain the large mechanized forces he needs to have any hope of achieving his ambitions in Ukraine.

ISW analysts believe that Putin may still be hesitant to order the additional mobilization of reservists, which Russian officials have likely been preparing for early 2023. He has not returned and probably will not return to the practice of recruiting volunteers, with which he tried to compensate for losses since May 2022  at the time, the formation of volunteer battalions was entrusted to the regions of the Russian Federation. However, he has not turned back to voluntary recruitment and is unlikely to do so, but he seems to remain nervous about how much sacrifice he can impose on his people.

Read also: Russian invaders refusing to go on offensive in Vuhledar area en masse

Even if Putin announces another wave or two of reserve mobilizations, he may find himself facing another dilemma: the pool of reservists suitable for combat is finite. The Russian conscription system generates roughly 260,000 new soldiers each year, drawn in two semi-annual drafts.

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Meanwhile, the combination of the pre-war reserve call-up, the recruitment efforts that drew partly on reservists, and the partial reserve call-up of September have likely made significant inroads into the available reserve manpower in the age groups and with the experience appropriate to replace losses in front-line combat units, ISW analysts. believe.

The ISW also explains that now, facing the need for a fresh wave of mobilization, Putins demand for an ultranationalist pro-war community has changed, but has not disappeared. If in the first stages of the war, the dictator tried to use this community to expand his campaign to attract volunteers to the army, trying to avoid the announcement of mandatory conscription, now the pro-war circles serve the dictator as the most reliable pro-Kremlin voice sustaining support for the war effort.

Therefore, Putin is unlikely to allow the Ministry of Defense fully to censor or shut it down, but he may allow (Chief of Russian General Staff Valery) Gerasimov to sideline or remove entirely some milbloggers who have been too strident in their criticisms now that their services as active recruiters are no longer necessary, the ISW concludes.

Read also: Russia likely preparing for offensive in Ukraine in coming months, says ISW

Key takeaways

 Deputy Head of the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) Vadym Skibitskyi stated that Ukrainian forces will be ready for a counteroffensive this upcoming spring and that one of Ukraines strategic goals will be to drive a wedge into the Russian front in southern Ukraine between Crimea and the Russian mainland.

 Putin falsely stated that the West is trying to break up the Russian Federation and suggested that Western security assistance to Ukraine makes the West a participant in the war. Putin leaned on a longstanding rhetorical line of effort for raising domestic support for the war by falsely claiming that the West is threatening the survival of the Russian people as a unified ethnic group.

 Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu stated that the types of systems that the West provides to Ukraine will determine how far Russian forces need to push threats away from Russias borders, likely in support of an ongoing Russian information operation aimed at discouraging the Western provision of specific systems to Ukraine.

 U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns stated on Feb. 25 that the CIA is confident that Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment to Russia but has not made a final decision.

 Russian forces continued to conduct unsuccessful operations northwest of Svatove and near Kreminna.

 Russian forces continued offensive operations around Bakhmut, and a Russian military blogger claimed that Russian forces made further advances north of the city.

 Russian forces continued offensive operations along the western outskirts of Donetsk City and in western Donetsk Oblast.

Read also: Four collaborators who operated Russian torture chamber during occupation detained in Kherson

 Spokesperson for the Ukrainian forces in the Tavriisk operational direction, Oleksiy Dmytrashkivyskyi, reported that Russian forces are accumulating a large amount of Russian personnel and equipment near Vasylivka and Hulyaipole in Zaporizhzhya Oblast.

 Russian military personnel from the 1439th Regiment from Irkutsk Oblast released a video complaining about being subordinated under Donetsk puppet authority commanders in Ukraine, further indicating that the Russian Ministry of Defense may be continuing to integrate these formations into the Russian Armed Forces through the subordination of mobilized personnel.

Read also: Ukrainian defense forces destroy over 650 Russian cruise missiles, 610 drones since mid-September

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Map of combat operations: the battle for Bakhmut, battles in the Donbass and in the Zaporizhzhya Oblast, in the south and in the north-east of Ukraine

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russia's Air Defence was removed from the subordination of the Ground Forces and re-subordinated to the main command of the Russian Aerospace Forces.

Source: Kremlin-aligned media outlet TASS, citing sources close to the Russian military department

Details: "Yes, it's true. It's already an accomplished fact," one of the sources of the media said, answering TASS's question whether the military air defence of the Ground Forces was resubordinated to the Central Committee of the Russian Aerospace Forces. Another source of the news agency also confirmed this information.

It is noted that TASS has no official confirmation of this information.

Quote: "Before this, the unit and air defence units were both parts of the Ground Forces (military air defence), the equipment of which accompanied and covered the troops directly in the combat zones on the ground, and also part of the Air Defence Forces of the Air Force. The latter, in particular, solved the task of air defence of targets, that is, they covered important objects."

Note: Since October 2017, General Sergey Surovikin has been leading the Russian Aerospace Forces.

Background:

The Ministry of Defence of Russia appointed Sergey Surovikin commander of the joint group of troops in Ukraine early in October 2022.

In this position, Surovikin became most "famous" for surrendering Kherson to Ukrainian troops. Additionally, with his appointment, Russia began to launch massive missile strikes on the energy infrastructure of Ukraine.

Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has expressed his opinion about Sergey Surovikin, describing him as a typical Russian commander from the times of Peter the Great.

On 11 January 2023, Sergei Surovikin was dismissed from the position of commander of the Russian Armed Forces' grouping in the ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Federation, was appointed to this position, while Surovikin became his deputy.

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Russian occupation authorities are preparing to flee from Kherson Oblast to Crimea, and local collaborators have also started leaving to the peninsula.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Quote: "In the settlements of Oleshky and Skadovsk, Kherson Oblast, the Russian occupation so-called authorities are preparing to flee to the temporarily occupied Autonomous Republic of Crimea.

Local collaborators have been detected leaving for the cities of Bakhchysarai, Simferopol and Kerch since 21 February, and the occupiers announced a so-called evacuation for anyone interested from 24 February."

Details: The Russians used military lorries to transport the collaborators and allowed them to take hand luggage only.

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The occupation court of Yalta in the annexed Crimea has sentenced four followers of the Church of Jehovah's Witnesses to various terms of imprisonment, accusing them of participating in the organisation and financing of an "extremist community".

Source: Crimea.Realities: Radio Liberty, citing Russia's Investigative Service

Quote: "The three organisers were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment: from six years six months to 6 years 1 month, which will be served in a general regime penal colony. Also, after the expiration of the specified term, they will be restricted in freedom for a period of one year. The court sentenced the active member of the group to a three-year suspended sentence with a similar probationary period. The court's verdict has not entered into force."

Details: The Russians say that 5th Jehovah's Witnesses is currently "on the international wanted list. The names of the convicts and the accused are not specified, and they have not made any public comments.

The Russian authorities have been persecuting Jehovah's Witnesses since the mid-2010s, and in 2017, the Supreme Court banned their activities in Russia and recognised them as extremist. The decision was actively criticised by human rights groups and the international community, and in June, it was recognised as inconsistent with Moscow's commitments by the European Court of Human Rights.

Hundreds of church members have been convicted of extremism under criminal articles in Russia, and more than a hundred of them have been sent to prison.

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(Reuters) - Russia's former president and an ally of President Vladimir Putin said in remarks published on Monday that the West's continued supply of arms to Kyiv risked a global nuclear catastrophe, reiterating his threat of nuclear war over Ukraine.

Dmitry Medvedev's apocalyptic rhetoric has been seen as an attempt to deter the U.S-led NATO military alliance and Kyiv's Western allies from getting even more involved in the year-old war that has dealt Moscow setbacks on the battlefield.

The latest comments by Medvedev, who serves as deputy chairman of Putin's powerful security council, follow Putin's nuclear warning last week and his Sunday remarks casting Moscow's confrontation with the West as an existential battle for the survival of Russia and the Russian people.

"Of course, the pumping in of weapons can continue .... and prevent any possibility of reviving negotiations," Medvedev said in remarks published in the daily Izvestia.

"Our enemies are doing just that, not wanting to understand that their goals will certainly lead to a total fiasco. Loss for everyone. A collapse. Apocalypse. Where you forget for centuries about your former life, until the rubble ceases to emit radiation."

Speaking on the sidelines of the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna dismissed Medvedev's comments as "inflammatory rhetoric."

"Mr. Medvedev, alas, has long accustomed us to irresponsible, outrageous statements that in no way reflect reality," she said. "This is inflammatory rhetoric that we would gladly do without."

(Reporting by David Ljunggren, Additional reporting by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber in Geneva; Writing by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Michael Perry and Gareth Jones)
Michelle Yeoh at the SAG Awards Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

There's no stopping Everything Everywhere All at Once.

The film had a dominant night at Sunday's Screen Actors Guild Awards, winning four trophies, including the top honor of best cast in a motion picture. Combined with its prior victories at the Producers Guild of America Awards and Directors Guild of America Awards, Everything Everywhere now appears unbeatable in the Best Picture Oscar race.

But the film performed even better at the SAG Awards than expected, including with a surprise supporting actress win for Jamie Lee Curtis. The frontrunner was thought to be Angela Bassett for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever or perhaps Kerry Condon for The Banshees of Inisherin. But Curtis is now firmly in the conversation to win the Oscar considering all but one SAG supporting actress winner since 2010 has gone on to win the Academy Award.

Everything Everywhere's Michelle Yeoh also defeated Tar's Cate Blanchett for best actress in a close race, confirming this Oscar contest is neck and neck. Lead actor, meanwhile, went to The Whale's Brendan Fraser, who triumphed over Elvis' Austin Butler in another race that's turning out to be a real coin toss.

Finally, Everything Everywhere's Ke Huy Quan maintained his Oscar momentum by winning best supporting actor, and he and Yeoh both made history as the first Asian winners in their categories. Everything Everywhere also broke the record for most SAG awards won by one film.

It may now be difficult to predict the Oscars' acting winners, though. After all, the SAG Awards and British Academy Film Awards, two key precursors that share voters with the Academy, picked four completely different winners, the first time this has happened. While SAG honored Fraser, Yeoh, Quan, and Curtis, BAFTAs picked Butler, Blanchett, Barry Keoghan, and Condon. So while Best Picture may be locked up for Everything Everywhere, there will still be plenty of suspense heading into the big night on March 12.

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The SAG Awards have been criticised after Mark Wahlberg was picked to present an award to the majority Asian cast of Everything Everywhere All at Once.

When he was a teenager, Wahlberg was charged with attacking two Vietnamese men while high on the drug PCP, pleading guilty to felony assault. Police officers reported that Wahlberg used racist slurs to describe both victims.

At the end of the SAG Awards on Sunday (26 February), Wahlberg took to the stage to announce the winner of the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.

The award went to Everything Everywhere All at Once, the Oscar-tipped drama about a dimension-jumping laundrette owner starring Michelle Yeoh, Stephanie Hsu and Ke Huy Quan.

Viewers shared their thoughts on Twitter, with a number of them condemning the decision to have Wahlberg host the award.

I gotta say, having Mark Wahlberg, who literally went to jail as a teen for committing a hate crime against a Vietnamese man, present an award to the cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once was certainly a choice, wrote journalist Bonnie Stiernberg.

The irony of Mark Wahlberg giving an award to EEAAO, one person commented.

Mark Wahlberg (whos committed multiple hate crimes including against asian people) giving sag ensemble prize to a predominantly Asian cast is genuinely such an embarrassing thing for Hollywood to do, another person wrote.

Having Mark Wahlberg present this is so ugly #SAGAwards, someone else wrote.

Mark Wahlberg onstage at the 2023 SAG Awards (Getty Images)

Others, however, argued that Wahlberg has reformed in the decades since committing the crimes, and deserved to be allowed to host the award.

The Independent has contacted representatives for Wahlberg and the SAG Awards for comment.

In 2014, Wahlberg unsuccessfully sought a pardon for his attack on the two Vietnamese men, writing in an application: I am deeply sorry for the actions that I took on the night of April 8, 1988, as well as for any lasting damage that I may have caused the victims.

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Since that time, I have dedicated myself to becoming a better person and citizen so that I can be a role model to my children and others.

In recent years, his victims have expressed differing opinions on whether Wahlberg should still be held accountable for his teenage actions.

You can find a roundup of all the winners from this years SAG Awards here.
Sally Field poked at her white privilege in receiving a lifetime achievement honor Sunday at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. (Watch the video below.)

I was a little white girl with a pug-nose born in Pasadena, California, the two-time Oscar winner said. And when I look around this room tonight, I know my fight  as hard as it was  was lightweight compared to some of yours. I thank you and I applaud you.

Field, who recently starred in 80 for Brady, struck the right tone to some observers on Twitter. It should be everyones goal in life to be as self-aware as Sally Field, one wrote.

It should be everyones goal in life to be as self-aware as Sally Field.pic.twitter.com/V5d18wyF0P  Kenny Williams (@Ohheykenny) February 27, 2023

As the awards season nears a close, the reported short shrift given to Black women at the upcoming Oscars will seize the spotlight. Till star Danielle Deadwyler and the lauded historical drama The Woman King were among the prominent nomination snubs.

We live in a world and work in industries that are so aggressively committed to upholding whiteness and perpetuating an unabashed misogyny towards Black women, Till director Chinonye Chukwu wrote.

Not surprisingly, Fields words got noticed on social media. Some accused her of virtue signaling, but many felt her remarks came from places in the heart.

What an absolute queen!  Nick Carter (@nick_carter91) February 27, 2023

And she did not diminish herself while acknowledging the greater challenges the others have been through.  ToireasaLinn*use this to find me elsewhere (@phonedthisin) February 27, 2023

She's a great actress with class.  CreativeOne (@daphparker7) February 27, 2023

I was a white girl with a pug nose from Pasadena, California



-Sally Field, saying that her struggles were nothing compared to some of you in this room#SAGAwards#film  Omar Moore (@thepopcornreel) February 27, 2023

Sally Field is still a little white girl with a pug nose. But no matter what package she came in - she was destined to be an award winning actress. She's got that magical talent and drive that it takes. #Congratulations for this award. She deserves it.  AmericanCitizen (@PJB956) February 27, 2023

No, it doesnt. Is she not white? Was she not a little girl growing up in Pasadena. Those are her truths. Your issues are not her issues. Little white girls are not diminished because Sally Field had the audacity to state exactly who she is.  glasshalffull (@Montana2Rice4Ev) February 27, 2023

I have such a sweet spot for Sally Field, I almost cried watching the speech protect her at all cost! https://t.co/rQHujW5hFO  Joao (@LikeSchwow) February 27, 2023

@sally_field I am so happy about the acknowledgment you received tonight at the SAG awards. You deserve it and your speech was amazing.  Just J (@damitjanet1) February 27, 2023

NOT ME CRYING OVER SALLY FIELD'S SAG SPEECH



easy is overrated !  Cara Angeline Oliver (@cagoliver) February 27, 2023

Did really love the whole Sally Field Lifetime Achievement part. Her speech was delightful! #SAGAwards  Katie (@msmiller111) February 27, 2023

If you missed Sally Field's speech tonight on the Screen Actor's Guild Awards, go find it. Amazing woman. Classy, intelligent, insightful, inspiring. https://t.co/KLtiU5Ezxt     (@Dave_Enna) February 27, 2023

Related...
A Ukrainian soldier runs to take a position through the residential blocks in the frontline city of Vuhledar - Evgeniy Maloletka/AP

An elite Russian infantry force reportedly suffered heavy losses in a failed assault on the town of Vuhledar, according to satellite images claiming to show a formation of vehicles destroyed.

British military intelligence released photographs on Sunday claiming to show at least 10 armoured vehicles burned out in the snow pockmarked by mortar craters to the south east of the town.

"These vehicles were likely elements of Russias 155th Naval Infantry (NI) Brigade which has been at the forefront of recent costly offensives," the Ministry of Defence said.

"The supposedly enhanced capability of NI brigades has now almost certainly been significantly degraded because it has been backfilled with inexperienced mobilised personnel."

Vuhledar, some 100 miles south west of Bakhmut, has become one of the focal points of Russias renewed offensive to capture more territory in the Donbas.

Satellite picture shows elite Russian unit 'destroyed' around Vuhledar - MOD / Twitter

Meanwhile, the General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces has said that Russia "keeps attacking the positions of Ukrainian troops" around Bakhmut.

In its daily update on Sunday, it said that Russia had conducted "unsuccessful offensives" near six settlements, including Yahidne and Berkhivka, in the Donetsk region, which Moscow claims to have annexed.

It comes after Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner mercenary group, said on Saturday that his forces had captured the village of Yahidne.

A Ukrainian soldier prepares to change position during a patrol in the frontline city of Vuhledar - Evgeniy Maloletka/AP

At 19.00 on 25th February, storm units of the Wagner private military company secured complete control of the locality of Yagodnoye (Yahidne) to the north of Bakhmut, Mr Prigozhin said in an audio message posted online.

On Friday, he claimed control of Berkhivka, an adjacent village on the outskirts of Bakhmut.

Ukraines armed forces said Russia keeps concentrating its main efforts on conducting offensive actions along the Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Shakhtar parts of the frontline.

It said Russian forces had shelled the areas of 22 settlements along that part of the frontline in Donetsk over the past day, while Ukraine had repelled 71 in Donetsk and elsewhere along the frontline.
A satellite has detected an A-50 AWACS aircraft, which might have been attacked at the Belarusian Machulishchy military airfield on 26 February.

Source: Belarusian editorial office of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, citing Plant Labs

Details: The photo was taken on 19 February. As Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty states, the photo shows where the A-50 could have been at the time of the strike.

In addition, the satellite spotted several other Russian aircraft, which the publication identified as MiG-31K jet interceptors.

Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty reports that the A-50 was conducting reconnaissance of Ukrainian territory and guiding the Kh-47M2 Kinzhal cruise missiles to their targets.

Background:

On the morning of 26 February, the BYPOL initiative reported explosions at the Machulishchy airbase in Minsk Oblast in Belarus. There is information about a damaged Russian AWACS aircraft.

Alexander Azarov, Head of the BYPOL initiative, said that Belarusian partisans were behind it. As he stated, the participants of the alleged sabotage in Machulishchy left Belarus and are now safe.

A day after an incident at the military airbase in the village of Machulishchy in Belarus, the Belarusian border guards significantly enhanced control of people leaving the country.

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A Seattle Police Department officer was assaulted during the recovery of a stolen car in the Eastlake neighborhood early Sunday, the department announced.

According to SPD, the officer found a reported stolen car in the 2300 block of Franklin Avenue East around 1:30 a.m. As the officer tried to recover the car, a man walked out from a nearby apartment building and started interfering with the tow truck that was driving away with the car.

The man was recognized as having multiple outstanding felony warrants and was taken into custody after a short foot pursuit.

As the officer was waiting for backup to arrive, the 42-year-old man began yelling back toward the apartment building. Police said a woman then came out of the apartment and inserted herself between the officer and the detained man.

Soon after, a second man that the suspect knew came from the apartment and assaulted the police officer to prevent the suspects detainment.

The two men returned to an apartment and barricaded themselves inside, police said.

SPD hostage negotiators were called to the scene to try and get the men to voluntarily exit the apartment. Police later obtained a search warrant to enter the apartment and find the two men. SPDs SWAT Team entered the apartment and took both men into custody.

The officer who was assaulted suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The suspects were not injured.

The 42-year-old man was arrested for investigation of assault, obstruction, resisting arrest, false reporting, and his outstanding warrants. The second man, a 32-year-old, was arrested for investigation of assault and obstruction. Both were booked into the King County Jail.

Officers also requested obstruction charges for the woman who came from the apartment and inserted herself between the officer and the detained suspect.
By Andrew Gray, Aleksandar Vasovic and Fatos Bytyci

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The leaders of Serbia and Kosovo agreed on Monday to a Western-backed deal to normalise relations but more talks are needed on the implementation of the pact, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.

Speaking after hosting talks in Brussels between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Borrell said the leaders agreed "no further discussions" are needed on the deal between the former wartime foes.

"Progress was made today, and I commend the parties for their engagement," Borrell told reporters.

"At the same time, more work is needed, to ensure that what was accepted today by the parties will be implemented. It is important to agree (but) it is still more important to implement what has been agreed."

Kosovo declared independence in 2008, almost a decade after war brought an end to Serbian rule. But Serbia still regards Kosovo as a breakaway province and flare-ups between the Balkan neighbours have stoked fears of a return to conflict.

Under the new deal, Serbia stops short of recognising Kosovo as an independent state but agrees to recognise official documents such as passports, diplomas and licence plates and not to block Kosovo's membership of any international organisation.

Serbia has so far relied on its ally Russia, a veto-holding member of the U.N. Security Council, and other countries that do not recognise Kosovo to prevent its neighbour joining the U.N.

According to the text of the EU-brokered deal published on Monday night, Kosovo - whose population is mainly ethnic Albanian - agrees to "ensure an appropriate level of self-management" for its Serb community.

But the details of that arrangement, and other contentious issues, are expected to be part of an annex on implementing the deal and previous commitments. Borrell said the annex was an "integral part" of the new deal but it had not yet been agreed.

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He said he would convene another leaders' meeting next month with the aim of finalising the annex.

KURTI CONTENT

Kurti said he had been ready to sign the deal at the meeting on Monday. "It is a pity that we did not sign the deal tonight despite the fact that we all agree," he told reporters.

But Vucic said that was an unrealistic expectation, as more discussion was needed. "It is a serious, long, difficult and tiring process," he said.

He said he hoped and believed "that we will be able to work on ... implementation and, above all, the implementation of previously reached agreements."

Vucic has insisted Kosovo establish an association of Serb-majority municipalities, as agreed by a previous Kosovo government.

Leaders of Kosovo's ethnic-Albanian majority argue such a body would give Belgrade an outsize influence in their country while Serbs say it is needed to protect their rights.

Kosovo's top court ruled the last association plan violated the constitution. Kurti has been under Western pressure to come up with a new solution that will not fall foul of the courts.

That pressure is part of a broader international effort to get Vucic and Kurti to accept the deal.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wrote a joint letter to both leaders urging them to sign the pact.

The top U.S. diplomat for the Western Balkans, Gabriel Escobar, was in Brussels on Monday to push for an agreement.

But even if Vucic and Kurti finalise the current deal, entitled the "Agreement on the path to normalisation between Kosovo and Serbia", it will not be the end of the story.

As the text of the document makes clear, the ultimate aim is to reach "a legally binding agreement on comprehensive normalization of their relations" further down the line.

(Reporting by Andrew Gray in Brussels, Aleksandar Vasovic in Belgrade and Fatos Bytyci in Pristina; Editing by Matthew Lewis and Stephen Coates)
(Bloomberg) -- The leaders of Serbia and Kosovo effectively agreed to a deal on normalizing ties but must hash out how to implement it to end a dispute that has smoldered since they fought a 1998-1999 war.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti are facing a push by Washington and Brussels to ease the dispute that has threatened the regions stability.

After sitting down to discuss an EU-sponsored proposal to end the rift in Brussels on Monday, Vucic and Kurti didnt announce an agreement.

But EU foreign policy Chief Josep Borrell said no further talks on the plan were needed, and future negotiations would focus on implementation.

Progress was made today, Borrell said. At the same time more work is needed to ensure that what was accepted today by the parties will be implemented.

The 11-point plan called on both sides to gradually develop relations based on respect for territorial integrity and the sanctity of borders, and exchange permanent missions. Kosovo should allow a degree of some autonomy for ethnic Serbs still living in Kosovo, while Serbia will not object to Kosovos membership in international organizations.

That would be a sea change in relations under which Serbia currently does not recognize Kosovo.

Both parties agreed to refrain from any actions to renew tensions on the ground, Borrell said.

Talks will take place in mid March, Vucic said, adding that he expected many more sessions. Still, disagreement remained over a proposal to give Serbs still living in Kosovo autonomy, he said.

I hope we will be able to reach a compromise, but Im afraid we could also get stuck, he said.

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The acrimony between the neighbors has effectively prevented them from progressing toward EU membership.

Belgrade considers Kosovo, a mostly Muslim nation of roughly 1.8 million, part of its territory and the religious and cultural heartland of the Serb nation.

(Updates with details from published agreement from sixth paragraph.)

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Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) said Sunday he wasnt surprised at growing support for the theory that a lab leak in China led to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Watch the video below.)

Moulton was interviewed by CNNs Jim Acosta after news outlets reported the U.S. Department of Energy now believes the most likely cause of the outbreak, which has killed more than 6.8 million worldwide, originated from a laboratory leak. The FBI earlier sided with the lab hypothesis as well, but divisions remain in the U.S. intelligence community over whether it was spawned in a lab or jumped from animals to humans at a Wuhan market where wildlife was sold.

The Energy Department reportedly arrived at its conclusion with low confidence, but Acosta asked Moulton, who serves on a House committee that monitors the Chinese Communist party, about his reaction to it.

I mean, look, Im not entirely surprised, Moulton said. The Chinese have mishandled COVID at every step of the way, trying to sweep it under the rug, trying a strategy of zero COVID that utterly failed. And tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands of Chinese are dead as a result of the mismanagement of this pandemic by the Chinese Communist Party.

For it to come out that the whole thing started because of mismanagement, I mean, look, we need to see whether this is true, but if it is, I dont find it surprising at all, Moulton continued.

Early in the pandemic, Moulton withdrew from a bipartisan resolution blaming China for the outbreak, saying it would stoke racism.

Former White House pandemic adviser Anthony Fauci said in November that most evidence points to the virus source being bats in the Wuhan market, but he said he was open to the possibility of a lab leak.

China has resisted cooperating with international investigations.

Related...
Sheryl Lee Ralph couldnt contain her excitement after meeting Zendaya for the first time at the 2023 SAG Awards.

The Abbott Elementary star took to Instagram on Sunday 26 February after the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards where she shared photos of her run-in with the Euphoria actor and producer.

In the sweet images, the actors are seen hugging and smiling at each other during the awards ceremony. Zendaya  who changed into a cutout, colour-blocked gown after walking the red carpet  appeared excited to meet the Tony award-winner as she sported a wide smile. Another picture showed the pair posing next to each other and smiling for the camera.

Following the ceremony, Ralph posted the two images to her Instagram and shared an encouraging message for Zendaya in the caption.

I am in awe of this young beautiful woman @zendaya, she wrote. Continue to let your light shine baby!

The Disney Channel alum was seemingly warmed by Ralphs kind words when she left three white heart emojis in the comments section. Fans were simply thrilled to see the dynamic duo together in one picture.

Two of my favorite talented, beautiful people! commented one fan.

TWO OF THE BEST, replied another.

A third fan said: The amount of talent and beauty in this picture is indescribable.

Zendaya and Ralph were among the many celebrities who stunned on the red carpet at the 2023 SAG Awards. The Spider-Man star arrived on the red carpet outside the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles wearing a pale pink strapless satin Valentino gown adorned with flowers. She later changed into a strapless gown  complete with a cut-out black and blue bodice and a pink skirt  to present the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series alongside Paul Mescal.

Meanwhile, Ralph walked the red carpet in a glittering gold dress with billowing sleeves and paired the look with a half-up hairstyle.

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The Abbott Elementary star isnt the only Hollywood actor to praise Zendaya. Her boyfriend and Spider-Man co-star, Tom Holland, recently shared a sweet reaction to Zendayas appearance at the NAACP Image Awards on Saturday.

The 26-year-old actor wore a black and green strapless Versace dress to the awards ceremony over the weekend, and posted the stunning images of her look to Instagram. In the comments section of Zendayas Instagram post, her actor boyfriend left three heart-eye emojis.

Fans were then quick to post their response to Hollands comment, writing: You two are my favourite people ever.

Youre so damn lucky man, said another.
Ahead of the 54th NAACP Image Awards, Sheryl Lee Ralph discussed the importance and legacy of Black Hollywood on the red carpet. While speaking with VIBE on Saturday evening (Feb. 25), the legendary actress explained the economic power of collaboration and community.

When we all start pooling our money, when we all start making films together, when we all start spreading the word that we are not a monolith, that there are so many different levels to who we are as people, especially Black people. Thats Black Hollywood to me, exclaimed the 66-year-old.

More from VIBE.com

Its not just friendships, its just not just award shows. Its us being able to be a part of this machine on our own and really survive. Oscar Micheaux was Black Hollywood, Sidney Poitier, Ruby D, Ossie Davis, that was Black Hollywood. They were working together and making money. Thats Black Hollywood.

Ivy Coco Maurice and Sheryl Lee Ralph attend the 54th NAACP Image Awards at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 25, 2023 in Pasadena, California.

Sheryl Lee Ralph wearing bright yellow off shoulder gown, receives Order of Jamaica award

Related Story

The Abbott Elementary star shared how shes considered publishing a coffee table book of life quotes and discussed the work she looks forward to.

More stories. More stories about us. More stories that elevate us. I want for us a high bar because you know that bar was set real high for us at one point, she detailed.

We had nothing, and we were the people that were able to have a Black Wall Street. But then folks came for us in the night under hoods because they were ashamed to show who they really are, and destroyed what we built. And guess what we did? We rose up again. Were in that time right now. Dont be fooled.

The Moesha actress attended the 2023 NAACP award red carpet with her daughter and stylist Ivy Coco Maurice wearing an orange beaded gown designed by PISTIS Ghana.

After winning the Outstanding Comedy Series Image Award with the Abbott Elementary cast, Ralph and her costar Janelle James also presented the Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series award to Nicco Annan for his role in P-Valley.

Click here to read the full article.
By Rocky Swift

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's Shionogi & Co Ltd believes its COVID-19 pill will easily garner $2 billion in annual sales if it secures U.S. approval, which the company expects to receive in late 2024, its chief executive said.

Xocova, a protease inhibitor like the COVID treatments developed by Pfizer Inc and Merck & Co, was granted emergency approval by Japanese regulators in November, making it the nation's first domestically produced oral treatment for COVID.

CEO Isao Teshirogi told Reuters that the drug - seen as the biggest of heavy bets by Shionogi on pandemic-related treatments - could be approved in South Korea and China as early as next month.

While Xocova came later to the market than Shionogi initially hoped for after Japanese regulators twice requested more data, the company says interim results of a study suggest taking the pill could lessen a patient's chances of developing long COVID.

"If you kill the virus fast enough and sharp enough, the lower the probability of long COVID. That's our hypothesis, but we need to prove that," Teshirogi said in an interview.

Competing drugs are also under the microscope for their potential to deliver similar outcomes. According to one study by the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Health Care System, Pfizer's antiviral drug Paxlovid cuts the risk of developing many long COVID symptoms.

Shionogi sold 2 million courses of Xocova, taken once daily for five days, to the Japanese government last year for 100 billion yen ($740 million).

Jefferies analyst Stephen Barker estimates, however, that only about 11,000 courses of Xocova are being consumed each month in Japan.

Shionogi is hoping for Xocova sales of around $1 billion to $1.5 billion this year.

Teshirogi said he expects U.S. approval of the drug could also come by the winter of 2024, pending a Phase III trial funded in part by the National Institutes of Health.

"I think $2 billion out of the COVID-19 market is not very difficult," he said, basing his estimate on Pfizer's forecast for more than $20 billion in COVID-related sales in 2023.

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Shionogi, a specialist drugmaker for infectious diseases like HIV and influenza, has ploughed about 80% of its research and development budget on coronavirus treatments in recent years.

A recombinant protein-based COVID vaccine has been submitted for approval in Japan. The shot is being retooled for the Omicron variant and a nasally inhaled version is also in the works.

But nearly all COVID inoculations in Japan have been with mRNA-type vaccines. The government has cancelled orders for tens of millions of shots developed by AstraZeneca Plc and Novavax Inc, clouding prospects for non-mRNA shots like Shionogi's.

The company's heavy investment in COVID projects has led to concern among some analysts that its mainline drug pipeline is stagnating.

"I have no regrets," Teshirogi said, adding that expectations among shareholders and the public had demanded that Shionogi devote its resources to fighting COVID.

($1 = 134.9600 yen)

(Reporting by Rocky Swift; Editing by Miyoung Kim and Edwina Gibbs)
Japanese pharmaceutical company Shionogi & Co Ltd's CEO believes its COVID-19, Xocova, pill can generate $2 billion in annual sales if it secures FDA approval.

The company expects U.S. approval by late 2024.

The treatment is a protease inhibitor, just like Paxlovid, the COVID-19 treatment made by Pfizer Inc (NYSE: PFE).

"I think $2 billion out of the COVID-19 market is not very difficult," he said, basing his estimate on Pfizer's forecast for more than $20 billion in COVID-related sales in 2023.

Japanese regulators granted emergency approval in November, making it the nation's first domestically produced oral treatment for COVID.

CEO Isao Teshirogi told Reuters that the drug could be approved in South Korea and China as early as next month.

While Xocova came later to the market than Shionogi initially hoped for after Japanese regulators twice requested more data, the company says interim results of a study suggest taking the pill could lessen a patient's chances of developing long COVID.

"If you kill the virus fast enough and sharp enough, the lower the probability of long COVID. That's our hypothesis, but we need to prove that," Teshirogi said in an interview.

Shionogi sold 2 million courses of Xocova, taken once daily for five days, to the Japanese government last year for 100 billion yen.

Jefferies analyst estimates that only about 11,000 courses of Xocova are consumed monthly in Japan.

Shionogi hopes for Xocova sales of around $1 billion to $1.5 billion this year.

Price Action: PFE shares are down 1.52% at $41.13 on the last check Monday
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal

Read also: Its not only about Putin: What must change in Russia

Shmyhal believes Russia have to change at first, turning into a democratic, demilitarized and denuclearized country, before any true reconciliation can come.

He said that sanctions, isolation, and the seizure of Russian assets and military aid to Ukraine are the means to disarm this country.

Commenting on the possibility of reaching a compromise with Russia, the Prime Minister stated that the invaders should withdraw from all of Ukrainian territory, while freezing the war would play in favor of Moscow.

Read also: The Russians have been preparing for this for 30 years: How can we end the war in Ukraine?

"Ukrainian society is ready to fight for freedom and independence until the will," Shmyhal said.

He noted that no territories would be surrendered to Russia even if Ukraine becomes an EU member soon and obtains strong security guarantees.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling said Singapore needs the whole community to step up and take action to ensure they and their loved ones are protected from scams. (PHOTO: MCI/GETTY)

SINGAPORE  The Singapore public will soon have new anti-scam measures to protect themselves, such as blocking international calls and SMSes, verifying calls from government officials, and locking up a designated sum in their bank accounts.

These measures were raised by Minister of State for Home Affairs Sun Xueling in Parliament on Monday (27 February), during her ministry's Committee of Supply budget debate.

She indicated that the authorities are bolstering defences and combating scams with greater vigour, but with more than 31,700 cases and $660 million reported to have been lost to scams last year, Singapore needs the whole community to take action to ensure they are protected from scams.

"No defence is impenetrable. Some scams will succeed. For example, investment scams and job scams, which contributed to the bulk of monies lost to scams in Singapore, are very hard to tackle," Sun said in Parliament.

"We have thus strengthened our enforcement capabilities to minimise the number of victims and amounts lost to scammers."

New defensive anti-scam measures that are being examined include giving the public the option to block international calls and SMSes, and to verify calls from government officials. More details will be released later.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore and the Association of Banks are also examining a solution for bank customers to lock up a designated sum in their accounts.

"This reduces the amount that could potentially be lost to scams via digital transfers," Sun explained.

Singapore's fight against scammers

Sun also elaborated on anti-scam measures that have been taken in the past year, including blocking scam calls, SMSes, listings and websites, as well as securing government and banking services.

Last year, over 6,500 mobile lines used to perpetuate scams were terminated through collaboration between the police, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and telecommunications companies.

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A collaboration between the police, social media companies and e-commerce marketplaces also resulted in the removal of more than 3,100 accounts and advertisements suspected of being part of scams.

The police also identified and blocked about 20,000 scam websites using analytic tools.

IMDA recently mandated that SMS Sender ID registration be required, with filters implemented for detecting potential scam SMSes and flagging unregistered senders as "likely-scams". Sun confirmed that all government agencies are onboarded to the registry.

MAS and ABS have implemented a variety of anti-scam measures in the past year. This includes a cooling-off period for new digital tokens, removing clickable links from official messages, and an emergency kill switch that allows users to suspend their accounts swiftly if they are compromised.

Recipients of SMSes from organisations that have not signed up with a registry by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will see the text messages labelled as likely scam. (PHOTO: IMDA)

The need for discerning and vigilant citizens

To expand public education outreach on scams, Sun said the Scam Public Education Office will be launched this year.

She also encouraged the public to download and use the ScamShield app, which will soon include a WhatsApp chatbot for reporting scams.

"By playing your part in reporting scam calls, SMSes, and WhatsApp messages, you protect others by enabling the police to detect scam messages and fraudulent WhatsApp accounts much more quickly and put them on a blacklist," she said.

As scams constantly evolve, Sun said that the best defence is a vigilant and discerning public, and Singapore needs to move beyond awareness to mobilise citizens to take action against scams.

Stricter actions against money mules and scammers

A total of 25 island-wide anti-scam enforcement operations were conducted by the police's Anti-Scam Command last year, as they investigated over 8,000 money mules and scammers.

The police worked with their foreign counterparts to take down 13 syndicates, and arrested more than 70 people overseas who were accountable for more than 280 cases in 2022.

Sun said that the Corruption, Drug Trafficking and Other Serious Crimes (Confiscation of Benefits) Act will be amended to make money mules criminally liable.

MHA is also working with the Smart Nation and Digital Government Office on legislative amendments to the Penal Code to curb scammers from abusing and using SingPass credentials.

"While the government will step up measures to protect us against scams, we need to remain alert and ready to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe," she concluded.

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.
Over the years, an overarching narrative has prevailed in society that single Black women are undesirable. While this stereotype has lived on for years, research results are saying differently. Yet again, the numbers never lie.

Society, often perpetrated by pop cultural beliefs, has often projected that single Black women are angry, aggressive, and bitter. Above all things, society has also dubbed Black women, especially those with darker skin and African features as ugly. In a study that was released in 2016, researchers found that there was a significant degree of stereotype for female physical attractiveness within society. They also found that those negative stereotypes existed specifically for Black women. For white women, it was easier to receive positive beauty stereotypes.

New Data about Single Black Women  And Women in General

In a recent article by The Hill, the publication broke down the decline of heterosexual romantic relationships for American males. This new development, partly triggered by the pandemic, signals a new era for many men in America. This is also true for men and friendships. According to the Survey Center on American Life, thirty years ago, 55 percent of men reported that they had at least six close friends, but that number has considerably declined in the past few years. In a 2022 research conducted by the Pew Research Center, 63 percent of men below the age of 30 reported being single, compared to 34 percent of women in the same age bracket. The research also concluded that younger men are more likely to be single, compared to older men.

The Dating Gap Widens

In a now-viral article by Greg Matos, he addressed the rise of singlehood for American men. Matos stated that because times have changed, women have healthier standards for relationships that men are forced to abide by or remain single. In his article, Matos stated that women are more likely to be able to thrive solo, without needing a romantic partner.

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This means a relationship skills gap that, if not addressed, will likely lead to fewer dating opportunities and longer periods of being single, Matos wrote. Theres less patience for poor communication skills today. The problem for men is that emotional connection is the lifeblood of healthy, long-term love and it requires all the skills that families still are not consistently teaching young boys.

Because dating apps are inundated with men who are looking to make a romantic connection, women are overwhelmed, and this hampers the chances of authentic connection. A report from GlobalWebIndex indicated that worldwide, men represented 62% of dating app users, and this affected their chances of finding partners online. Additionally, the overwhelming statistics indicated that women were overwhelmed and inundated with too many options.

Surprising Stats

The statistics may seem surprising to many people who assume that single Black women have the highest non-coupled rate, but the numbers disagree. Additionally, the pattern remains that although many men may be available to date, there is a significant shortage of men who meet the income and educational requirements that most women envision for a lifelong partner.

Single Black women fall into the category of women who want better relationship outcomes. With the upswing of Black sisterhood, self-care, Black girl luxury, and the soft life, many single Black women are realizing that they deserve to live effortlessly. They are also coming to the realization that the glamorization of struggle love is a fallacy.

While the data may be surprising to some, the numbers just proved what Black women knew all along.

The post Single Black Women Are Undesirable, Is A Popular Narrative. But Statistics Say Otherwise. appeared first on 21Ninety.
HONG KONG (AP)  The ex-husband and former in-laws of a slain Hong Kong model were detained Monday on charges in her killing after police found body parts in a refrigerator and a pot. The case has gripped many in a Chinese territory where any violent crime is rare.

Ex-husband Alex Kwong, his father Kwong Kau and his brother Anthony Kwong were charged with murdering model Abby Choi a day earlier. Alex Kwong's mother, Jenny Li, faces one count of perverting the course of justice. None of the four was granted bail.

Choi, a 28-year-old model with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram, disappeared Feb. 21, according to a report filed later with the Hong Kong Police. Her last post was Feb. 19, featuring a photo shoot she had done with fashion magazine LOfficiel Monaco.

On Friday, police found her dismembered body in a refrigerator in a house rented by Kwong Kau in a suburban part of Hong Kong about a 30-minute drive from mainland China.

Authorities later discovered a young womans skull believed to be Chois in a cooking pot seized from the house. Officials say there was a hole in the skull.

The defendants have not yet entered their pleas, and it does not appear that their lawyers have commented on the case to the media. The case was adjourned until May.

Choi had financial disputes involving tens of millions of Hong Kong dollars (millions of dollars) with her ex-husband and his family, police said earlier, adding that some people were unhappy with how Choi handled her finances.

The gruesome killing has particularly transfixed many in Hong Kong and across the border in mainland China, since the the self-governed southern Chinese city has a very low level of violent crime.

Choi's friend Bernard Cheng said he initially thought she had been kidnapped.

I haven't imagined a person who's so good, so full of love, so innocent, a person who doesn't do anything bad will be killed like this, he said. My heart is still heavy. I can't sleep well.

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Cheng said Choi had four children, aged between 3 and 10. Alex Kwong, 28, was the father of the older two, who are now being taken care of by Choi's mother. Choi had remarried, to Chris Tam, and he was the father of the younger children, who are staying with his family.

Cheng said Choi had good relationships with her family, including her in-laws, and would travel with the families of her current and former husbands together.

While violent crime is rare in Hong Kong, the case recalls a handful of other shocking killings. In 2013, a man killed his parents and their heads were later found in refrigerators. In another infamous 1999 case, a woman was kidnapped and tortured by three members of an organized crime group before her death. Her skull was later found stuffed in a Hello Kitty doll.
It looks like HSBC Holdings plc (LON:HSBA) is about to go ex-dividend in the next two days. Typically, the ex-dividend date is one business day before the record date which is the date on which a company determines the shareholders eligible to receive a dividend. The ex-dividend date is an important date to be aware of as any purchase of the stock made on or after this date might mean a late settlement that doesn't show on the record date. Accordingly, HSBC Holdings investors that purchase the stock on or after the 2nd of March will not receive the dividend, which will be paid on the 27th of April.

The company's next dividend payment will be US$0.23 per share, and in the last 12 months, the company paid a total of US$0.32 per share. Looking at the last 12 months of distributions, HSBC Holdings has a trailing yield of approximately 4.2% on its current stock price of 6.357. Dividends are a major contributor to investment returns for long term holders, but only if the dividend continues to be paid. That's why we should always check whether the dividend payments appear sustainable, and if the company is growing.

Check out our latest analysis for HSBC Holdings

Dividends are typically paid from company earnings. If a company pays more in dividends than it earned in profit, then the dividend could be unsustainable. Fortunately HSBC Holdings's payout ratio is modest, at just 43% of profit.

Companies that pay out less in dividends than they earn in profits generally have more sustainable dividends. The lower the payout ratio, the more wiggle room the business has before it could be forced to cut the dividend.

Click here to see the company's payout ratio, plus analyst estimates of its future dividends.

Have Earnings And Dividends Been Growing?

Businesses with strong growth prospects usually make the best dividend payers, because it's easier to grow dividends when earnings per share are improving. If earnings decline and the company is forced to cut its dividend, investors could watch the value of their investment go up in smoke. With that in mind, we're encouraged by the steady growth at HSBC Holdings, with earnings per share up 9.1% on average over the last five years.

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Another key way to measure a company's dividend prospects is by measuring its historical rate of dividend growth. HSBC Holdings has seen its dividend decline 7.5% per annum on average over the past six years, which is not great to see. HSBC Holdings is a rare case where dividends have been decreasing at the same time as earnings per share have been improving. It's unusual to see, and could point to unstable conditions in the core business, or more rarely an intensified focus on reinvesting profits.

To Sum It Up

Is HSBC Holdings an attractive dividend stock, or better left on the shelf? It has been growing its earnings per share somewhat in recent years, although it reinvests more than half its earnings in the business, which could suggest there are some growth projects that have not yet reached fruition. In summary, HSBC Holdings appears to have some promise as a dividend stock, and we'd suggest taking a closer look at it.

While it's tempting to invest in HSBC Holdings for the dividends alone, you should always be mindful of the risks involved. Our analysis shows 1 warning sign for HSBC Holdings and you should be aware of this before buying any shares.

Generally, we wouldn't recommend just buying the first dividend stock you see. Here's a curated list of interesting stocks that are strong dividend payers.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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SUBANG JAYA, Malaysia (Reuters) - Malaysian reptile enthusiast Yap Ming Yang hopes visitors to his pet-friendly cafe will learn to appreciate snakes and lizards as much as they do furrier creatures such as dogs and cats.

Bearded dragons, leopard geckos, and corn snakes are among the species resting in glass tanks stacked around Yap's cafe on the outskirts of Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur, species he says are commonly bred in the country.

Customers, including children, hold and pet the scaly animals while ordering drinks and food.

"People only care about furry animals, cats, dogs, but people always leave out reptiles and snakes," said Yap, who has a background in environmental science and is part of a community of Malaysians with an interest in herpetology - the study of reptiles.

"So I hope showing the public how interesting (they) are, we can cause them to have a better outlook on reptiles and less loved animals."

The Southeast Asian country is rich in biodiversity but also a major source for illegally trafficked wildlife.

(Reporting by Ebrahim Harris; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor and Gerry Doyle)
Snapchat is launching a chatbot powered by the artificial intelligence (AI) tool ChatGPT, the company announced Monday.

A customized version of the OpenAI tool, which Snapchat is calling My AI, will be available this week as an experimental feature for users who subscribe to Snapchat+, the company said in a a blog post.

Snapchat said the My AI tool can recommend birthday gifts, plan a hiking trip, or suggest a recipe for dinner. Users can customize the tool by giving it a name and creating a custom wallpaper for their chatbot.

ChatGPT and other generative AI tools hitting the public have received attention over reports of confidently distributing false information in queries, a term experts have called hallucinating.

In the blog post, Snapchat warned that the My AI tool is prone to hallucination and can be tricked into saying just about anything.

Please be aware of its many deficiencies and sorry in advance! All conversations with My AI will be stored and may be reviewed to improve the product experience. Please do not share any secrets with My AI and do not rely on it for advice, the company said.

Users can hold and press on messages from the My AI tool to submit feedback.

Snapchat is the latest social media company to launch an AI chat tool for users.

Other internet companies revealed chatbots for their search browsers earlier this month, including Microsoft, whose AI is powered through the same OpenAI technology, and Google, where the AI is powered by a separate model.

Microsoft has heavily invested in OpenAI and is incorporating ChatGPT into a new version of its Bing browser. Google launched a rival to ChatGPT called Bard.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Since 2010, South Carolina's population has grown by around 600,000 to 5.2 million. Catherine Delahaye/Getty Images

A South Carolina state senator proposed a bill that would ask relocators to pay $500 to move there.

New residents would pay $250 to register their vehicle and $250 for a new driver's license.

Sen. Stephen Goldfinch said the idea was for newcomers to contribute to local costs.

A state senator in South Carolina has proposed a tax that would require new residents to pay $500 when they move to the state.

Under the terms of the bill, individual counties would hold referenda on whether to introduce one-time fees for people who relocate to South Carolina: $250 to register their vehicle there and $250 to get a new driver's license.

Most states, including South Carolina, require newcomers from different states to get a new license upon arrival. It costs $25 to get a driver's license in South Carolina, which typically lasts for eight years.

The money collected would need to be spent on county infrastructure, public education, and green space conservation or preservation programs. South Carolina's Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office said the local revenue impact of the bill was "undetermined."

Around the Statehouse, the license fee bill has been nicknamed the "Yankee tax" by lawmakers, per the Post and Courier.

State Senator Stephen Goldfinch first proposed the bill in November and it was introduced to the state Senate in January. The South Carolina Senate's finance committee on Tuesday voted 11-6 in favor of the bill. Two other state senators were added as co-sponsors of the bill on Wednesday.

"We in South Carolina do not require a capital contribution of anybody that moves here from out of state, although they take advantage of our roads, our bridges, our schools, and our green spaces immediately on day one ... I just find that to be totally unfair on to our constituents who already live here," Goldfinch told the finance committee on Tuesday.

The bill doesn't aim to deter migration to South Carolina, Goldfinch told the committee.

Story continues

"For somebody to say that $250 is going to impact their decision on moving to South Carolina is a little bit ludicrous," Goldfinch told the committee. "The purpose is not necessarily to stop people ... the purpose is for the people showing up to pay their fair share."

Since 2010, South Carolina's population has grown by around 600,000 to 5.2 million, according to US Census data.

Each year between 2015 and 2020, the state had a net migration of more than 50,000 people, Census data shows. The pandemic has driven a surge in migration from cities like San Francisco, New York City, and Chicago, with sunny, low-tax southern states  primarily Texas and Florida  pulling in remote workers.

California lawmakers in 2020 proposed a one-time exit tax that high-income individuals would have to pay for up to 10 years after they left the state. The bill died.

Read the original article on Business Insider
In his State of the Judiciary message, Chief Justice Jensen suggested recent data supports the notion that reduced licensure rates for USD Law graduates is no longer a threat in South Dakota.

More:Bar exam critics move to strike testing requirement for USD law grads

Following up on this assertion, a request was put forth to the South Dakota Legislative Research Council (LRC) to obtain data from USD Law School and the State Bar of South Dakota. Unfortunately, this data does not support the Chief Justices expressed confidence.

Chief Justice Steven Jensen delivers the State of the Judiciary Address to the South Dakota Legislature on January 12, 2022.

According to the raw statistics provided to the LRC, for the years 2020-2022, only 116 of 199 USD Law graduates (58%) became licensed to practice law in South Dakota. This is broken down as follows: in 2022, the USD Law School produced 83 graduates, 44 of whom became licensed in South Dakota (53%); in 2021, the USD Law School produced 60 graduates, with 43 becoming licensed in South Dakota (71%); in 2020, the USD Law School produced 56 graduates, with 29 becoming licensed in South Dakota (52%). Sadly, these numbers reflect the persistence of a dark trend that has existed for nearly a decade; the LRC data shows similarly dismal licensure percentages for 2015 (50%), 2016 (63%), 2017 (39%), and 2018 (41%). To be sure, the 2021 data was a bright spot, but 2022s numbers fell back in line with the dark trend.

Mary Fitzgerald

Chief Justice Jensen is 100% correct that there needs to be a competency assessment as a condition to licensure as an attorney in South Dakota. Those who question the current methodology do not suggest otherwise. The problem is, the Court has hitched its wagon to the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) examinations. These examinations have been proven to be fundamentally flawed by a number of studies -- so much so that even the NCBE is revamping its methodology.

In the meantime, the Courts continued reliance upon the flawed NCBE has contributed to the current crisis South Dakota is facing, namely, the lack of accessible legal services in rural areas and to low-income or otherwise marginalized segments of society. Additionally, this approach has wrongly quashed the hopes and dreams of many qualified graduates for nearly a decade.

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Roger Baron

More:What were South Dakota's most influential Supreme Court cases of 2022?

We have the resources here in South Dakota to make our own competency determinations; indeed, we have done so in the past. Outsourcing this determination to the Wisconsin-based NCBE is the problem, not the solution. It is no small irony that the Wisconsin Supreme Court does not yield its competency determination for licensure in Wisconsin to the NCBE. Rather, Wisconsin utilizes a sound, curriculum-based licensure approach, which allows Wisconsin law school graduates to directly enter into the practice of law.

About the authors

Mary Fitzgerald has an accounting backround. She currently represents District 31 (Lawrence County) in the South Dakota Legislature. Mary was first elected to serve in 2020 and recently re-elected in 2022.

Professor Emeritus Roger Baron, USD School of Law, has served as the unofficial reporter for South Dakota Supreme Court opinions for over a decade, providing weekly summaries of newly-released opinions. He also maintains and operates USDLAW, an electronic list serve which serves the legal community in South Dakota.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota Chief Justice's judiciary message undercut by reported data
By Hyunsu Yim

SEOUL (Reuters) - For So Sung-uk and Kim Yong-min, who last week won a landmark Seoul court ruling on national health coverage for gay couples, the tide may finally be turning in their years-long struggle for equal recognition in South Korea for LGBT partnerships.

The 32-year-old activists, together since they first met during their national service a decade ago, have regularly posted about their relationship on social media and in public forums, including a wedding ceremony in 2019 that drew some 300 attendees.

"The more visible we are and the more we talk about our story, I think the more we can change people's opinions and help other LGBTQ people like us gather up courage," Kim said in an interview in the three-room Seoul apartment he shares with So.

"I believe if more LGBTQ people show who they are, change will come faster."

The two also managed to secure national health insurance coverage for So, who works with a youth HIV support group, as a dependent based on his partnership with Kim, an employee for an organisation that advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer rights.

But when local media drew attention to the pair's story and the National Health Insurance Service's official acknowledgement that they were a couple, the authorities backtracked and revoked So's coverage, saying the approval had been an administrative error.

Thus began a two-year legal struggle as So sued the health service, initially losing in a local administrative court but prevailing when the Seoul High Court last week reversed course and affirmed his right to coverage.

"I see this ruling not just as a one-off win but a sign that we are starting to win - that love has won and it will again," So said.

"Because we are not recognised as family by law in South Korea, things like guardianship or issuing real estate registration certificates on each other's behalf are out of our reach."

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Kim added that the reversal was a relief for the country's LGBTQ community.

"People have been feeling tired of not seeing much progress for a long time," he said.

In South Korea, where LGBT anti-discrimination laws face strong resistance from conservative religious groups and others, the decision was hailed by human rights group Amnesty International as a "step towards marriage equality".

Taiwan is alone among Asian governments in recognising same-sex marriages, which it legalised in 2019, although Thailand's legislature is moving forward with bills that could lead to approval while court cases have pressed for LGBT couples' rights in India and Japan.

South Korea's health service said in a statement it would conduct a legal review to decide whether to challenge the latest court decision before the Supreme Court.

Kim and So blamed inaction by politicians for South Korea's slow progress on LGBTQ rights, while acceptance is rising among the general public.

"Despite the hatred you see online and the discrimination, many LGBTQ people are still living well and happily in this country and there are many people who support us," So said.

A survey by South Korean pollster Realmeter last year found that nearly seven in 10 respondents said an anti-discrimination law was necessary.

Anti-discrimination bills have been proposed but lawmakers have failed to move forward with them.

"Politicians like to hide behind social consensus," So said.

"But it is their job to make society a more equal and better place to live, not just sit back and wait for society to change."

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim; Editing by Edmund Klamann)
South Park has made headlines for its controversial depiction of Harry and Meghan.

In a recent episode of the adult animated series created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the royal couple are lampooned with a series of jokes referencing events from the last few years.

Viewers have branded the episode brutal, and it was reported on Tuesday (21 February), that Markle herself was left upset by its content.

A representative for the couple denied reports that they were considering a lawsuit, calling the speculation nonsense.

Still, the episode, in true South Park form, doesnt hold back. Here are the references you might have missed.

The social media candle furore

The writers drew from Queen Elizabeths IIs funeral for one small joke featured early in the episode.

The characters based on Harry and Meghan attend the funeral of the Canadian Queen, and as they arrive, they walk past a candle identical to the one that became the source of social media discussions back in September.

Following the televised broadcast of the Queens funeral, unverified claims suggested that the royal family intentionally sat Markle behind a candle; many viewers said all they could see of Markle during the broadcast was her black hat.

If anything, the candles appearance in South Park was designed to send up the social media furore as opposed to Markle.

South Park referenced the candle furore following Queens funeral (Paramount Plus)

Harrys memoir

Perhaps an obvious one  the book Harry is promoting in the episode is titled WAAAGH, which is a nod to his memoir Spare, which was published in January.

In the book, which The Independent said sets fire to the royal family, Harry spoke of his hatred of the press, his strained relationship with his brother William and grappling with loneliness, trauma and PTSD.

At one stage in the episode, South Park characte Kyle tells his friends: They have this huge jet parked in front of my house and they keep on wanting me to buy their book.

Michelle Obama

In the episode, the characters based on Harry and Meghan meet with a brand manager, who labels Meghan as a sorority girl, actress, influencer and victim. Meanwhile, Harry is described as royal prince, millionaire, world traveller victim.

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Meghans profile is also shown, and eagle-eyed viewers have noticed the phrases Lawyer Pretending and First Lady Botherer among her list of hobbies., The former is a nod to Meghans role in legal drama Suits, while the latter references quotes made by royal expert Tom Bower in Revenge: Meghan, Harry and the War Between the Windsors.

South Park hints at claims surrounding Meghans relationship with Michelle Obama (Paramount Plus)

Bower claims that Obama was alarmed following a series of meetings with Markle, who was allegedly unsure how to find her place within the royal family. He claimed that Obama told Markle: Take some time and dont be in a hurry to do anything.

TV interviews

South Park poked fun at Harry and Meghans TV appearances (Paramount Plus)

Harry and Meghans several TV appearances, including a sitdown with Oprah Winfrey and appearance on ITV News, were sent up in the episode. The characters based on the pair appear on Good Morning Canada to insist they want privacy  however, its pointed out by the host that Meghan is holding a sign reading: Do not look at us. Harrys sign states: We do not want privacy.

When the host asks the prince if he hates journalists, he replies: Thats right. We just want to be normal people  all this attention is so hard.

They end up walking off the show.

Their move to California

In the episode, the royal couple give up their duties to move to South Park, with the character based on Meghan exclaiming: If we moved here, people would think were really serious about wanting to be normal.

This is a direct reference to the couples move to California after announcing they would step down as senior royals in 2020.

Their move to South Park angers the lead characters, with Kyle telling accusing the princes wife of bossing him around, adding: Im sick of hearing about them! I cant get away from them! They are in my f***ing face!

Characters based on Harry and Meghan move to South Park (Paramount Plus)

Harrys frost-bitten penis

After moving to South Park, the Harry and Meghan characters are furious after realising photos of their new home have been leaked to the media.

When Kyle clashes with the couple, his new neighbours, the Meghan character accused him of victiminsing her, with Harry stepping in to defend his wife, by saying: This is an outrage  we will just see how he deals with my blue penis.

This is a reference to Harrys revelation in his memoir that he was suffering from a frostbitten penis at his brother Williams wedding to Kate Middleton, following a 200-mile expedition to the North Pole in March 2011.

Meghans GQ magazine cover

In a tiny moment featured in the episode, several magazine covers appear on the screen, many of which sends up Meghans interviews with Vogue and The Cut.

However, its her GQ one, published in 2018, that is raising eyebrows. Written on the actual cover of the magazine was Meghans annus mirabilis, which, translated from Latin, means Meghans wonderful year.

The Latin phrasing itself was a nod to a speech given by the Queen in 1992, referred to as her annus horribilis. The speech, which featured in the most recent season of The Crown, came after a particulary bad year for the monarchy.

Parker and Stone eyed an opportunity, and instead of annus mirabilis, used the phrase Princess Anus on the fictional version of the magazine cover.

South Park is available to stream in the UK on Paramount Plus.
Feb. 26MARIETTA  Were it not for the United States, says Marietta attorney Mazi Mazloom, he wouldn't be alive today.

"I would have been dead in the Iran-Iraq War," said Mazloom, who was born in Tehran and came of age during the Iranian Revolution of 1979.

Mazloom told the Cobb County Republican Women's Club on Friday he remembered violence in the streets during those chaotic days, and his father at one point was detained for over a month before the family fled the country.

"The gentleman that was checking passports before we got on the flight happened to be a guy that had grown up with my dad. He looked at my dad and said, 'I know what you're doing. Go,'" Mazloom recalled.

Their plane would in the U.S. just days before the hostage crisis began, and their new life in South Carolina was no cakewalk. But speaking as part of a panel titled "Living the American Dream," Mazloom credited his adopted home for giving him an opportunity to thrive.

Mazloom was joined on the panel by Insurance Commissioner John King, a native of Mexico, and GOP consultant Benita Cotton-Orr, born in South Africa.

Cotton-Orr, who described herself as mixed-race, was born during South Africa's apartheid era and recalled it as a time of immense oppression.

"My family lost their land. They lost their homes. They were forced out of their homes as the group areas, as they called it, were implemented," she said. "We didn't get to choose where to go to school. We didn't get to choose who we could live with, where we could learn, who we could marry, who we could fall in love with. None of that was up to us. Everything was legislated according to your racial category."

It was 1986 and Cotton-Orr was raising a year-and-a-half-old son when she decided to move to the United States, saying she didn't want her children to grow up as she had. She went on to pursue a successful career in journalism here, leaving behind a political environment where freedom of the press didn't exist.

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There's a lot about her life in South Africa, Cotton-Orr said, that she doesn't miss.

"Can you imagine coming from a country where you have no voice, no vote, and now being able to talk to the governor and tell him what you think?" she said.

Cotton-Orr continued, "I can't tell you how many people are standing in line behind me trying to get to this country. So when you hear from others, and you read in the newspaper, how bad this country is, don't forget the millions of people were standing in line to get into this country."

King, meanwhile, recalled the strange looks he got as a fair-haired kid with an accent that was one part northern Mexico and one part south Georgia.

"People would come and talk to me, especially white kids would come and talk with me and then hear that accent, like  woah," he joked. "Of course, Hispanic kids didn't want anything to do with me because they said, you're a gringo."

King then went on to a lengthy career in both law enforcement and the military, which he said would never have been possible in Mexico.

"I would not have been allowed the chance to become a general. Only in America. Only in America would it be allowed for a young private," he said. "This is special. This experiment of the United States of America is special."

Asked about the immigration debate, King said neither extreme is the way forward.

"Both parties have kicked the can down the road. They've used this as an excuse for not doing their job," he said to nods of agreement. "...One side's for complete amnesty, the other side is, round up everybody and return them back to their home country ... Right now, it's all or nothing, and I think we need to demand better conversation, more thoughtful conversation than just a bumper sticker to solve this very complex problem."
Spoiler alert: This story contains details of the Paramount+ season finale of "1923."

Jacob (Harrison Ford) and Cara Dutton (Helen Mirren) face increasingly harrowing danger in Sunday's Season 1 finale of "1923."

But returning savior nephew Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar) displays his killer instinct in the Paramount+ "Yellowstone" prequel. In the finale, Spencer wins a sword duel on yet another ship trying to return home to his embattled Montana family.

Yes, somehow that sword duel was demanded by snot-nosed aristocratic Arthur (Rafe Soule), the bitterly jealous ex-fiance of Spencer's new wife, Alexandra (Julia Schlaepfer). The battle and fallout ruined the couple's third boat trip on Spencer's seemingly forever hero's journey.

"He's still on a ship, and these ships just keep getting bigger," Sklenar tells USA TODAY.

The stakes for "1923," which has been renewed for Season 2, are also rising. Here's what happened with Spencer in the finale:

Brandon Sklenar as Spencer in the "1932" season finale..

What? Spencer Dutton dances the waltz in '1923' finale

When Jacob learned of the Dutton family peril through letters, he immediately began his return home with Alex. They've had serious setbacks. The first tugboat capsized, they battled sharks, the couple married on the second ship, and the third, a gleaming ocean liner, led to a titanic confrontation with Alex's ex Arthur, who happened to be traveling out of Italy.

Sklenar says shooting the period scenes, on the historic ocean-liner Queen Mary docked in Long Beach, California, "was unbelievable. We shot there for a week. We were so lucky to get permission. The hair definitely stood up on your arms seeing those rooms."

Changing from his African bush apparel to "1923" high-class party duds, Spencer surprises Alex by showing he can waltz up a storm on the posh dance floor. Spencer explains he was taught to dance in his family's Montana living room. The waltz did not come naturally to the actor.

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"I love dancing, but not that kind of dancing. I've never danced a waltz," says Sklenar, who took a crash course in Malta. "That was probably the most nervous I have been on the set, doing that dance scene."

Sklenar thanks the formally dance-trained Schlaepfer for making the couple's waltz scenes work. "I'm not saying I'm clumsy, but I'm a big guy," he says. "Julia held that dance together, she really did."

Brandon Sklenar as Spencer and Rafe Soule as Young Arthur of the Paramount+ series "1923." The duel wasn't the only thing that was overboard.

Sklenar threw stuntman overboard for '1923' duel sea-toss

The couple's "1923" dance floor frolic is interrupted by the seething Arthur, who demands that Spencer duel and won't quit. It's a big moment for Spencer, who has shown grit as a gun-for-hire dispatched against dangerous game in Kenya. He reluctantly enters the fight. but ultimately shows he can handle human threats as well as leopard and lions.

"There is so much talk about Spencer returning home, and the force he is looking to unleash on people," Sklenar says. "I was excited to explore that for the first time, showing that Spencer should be feared, but that he also is capable of restraint."

In the battle, Spencer beats Arthur down repeatedly. But the cowardly Arthur grabs a pistol and goes after Spencer. To protect himself and Alex, Spencer throws Arthur over the rails to his death at sea.

Did Spencer really need to throw Arthur overboard? "It was kind of a reactionary move; the guy was coming at him with a gun. It happened. (Spencer) didn't consciously mean to kill him," Sklenar says.

Sklenar threw a stunt actor over the ship's deck for the sea-toss scene.

"That stunt actor absolutely deserves a medal. Because we threw him off the boat repeatedly, right into the water," Sklenar says. "He was fearless, that guy."

Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford) waits for the return of Spencer Dutton. But when will it happen?

When will Spencer get to Montana in '1923'

Spencer is kicked off the passenger ship after the battle and brought by guard to shore. A distraught Alex, locked in her ship's cabin, escapes to bid her husband farewell, vowing to meet him in Montana.

Spencer shouts romantically to Alex from aboard his departing small boat, a scene shot in Maltese waters. The finale ends with Alex and Spencer separated, and further from Spencer's Montana's homecoming.

Many "1923" fans assumed Spencer would be back saving his family with guns blazing for the finale.

Paramount+ has not announced a release date for Season 2. But Sklenar vows that when it does, "Guns will blaze. Hopefully soon."

More 'Yellowstone' universe: Let's ride!

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: '1923' finale: Brandon Sklenar talks overboard death, waltzing fears
tallahassee

Its good to support Black-owned businesses, especially during Black History Month. This time, were focusing on Black-owned eateries in Tallahassee.

Yes, Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando tend to get the most attention, but Tallahassee has a lot to offer as well. Floridas capital offers plenty for adventure seekers, shopaholics and history lovers. If youre interested in gastronomy, this city has a broad selection of Black-owned eateries and offers everything from seafood to infused vegan fare.

Enjoy meals, snacks and drinks at these Black-owned restaurants in Tallahassee.

Day One in Tallahassee

Earleys Kitchen  A Tallahassee Morning or Afternoon Staple

This restaurant has been a Tallahassee staple for thirty years and counting.

The owner, James Morrell, and his staff bring Southern-style cooking to the Sunshine State by using the freshest ingredients available. Pancakes, grits and other delicacies are available for the first meal of the day, along with coffee, tea and more.

If youre looking for a heavier meal, Earleys brings that out at lunchtime. According to the website, options vary from day to day, and theyre all equally mouth-watering. Smothered hamburgers, pork chops, Creole jambalaya are just a few of the top entrees available. They also have an impressive amount of sides, including rice, collard greens and more.

Visit their Instagram page to find out more information.

Pineappetit  Tallahassees Afternoon Delight

Youve done some biking and meandering, and now its time to eat again. Pineappetit is the brainchild of Chef Sam Burgess. Theres a food truck and a brick-and-mortar location.

Here, the presentation is everything. You can chow down on delicious steak, chicken and lobster tail served inside half a pineapple. Top it with lemon pepper dry rub, teriyaki, or one of the many other sauces and seasonings. Need something with more substance? Try the rasta pasta, gourmet wings, or a selection of Caribbean-style patties. Catering services are available, and Chef Burgess himself can be hired to cook for private events.

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Visit their Instagram page to find out more information.

Big Easy Snowballs  Afternoon or Evening

Remember enjoying a snow cone from the ice cream truck as kids? Now, imagine those with soft-serve ice cream inside. If this sounds delicious, head over to Big Easy Snowballs on North Monroe Street.

Choose from a selection of 150 flavors, some of which are sugar-free. Some of the flavors include blue cotton candy, key lime pie, root beer and Granny Smith apple.

If youre vegan, theres a good selection for you, too. The Dinosaur Egg, Amaretto Sour and Mai Tai snowballs consist of ice and syrup only.

Check out the full list of flavors on their website, and visit their Instagram page to find out more information.

Day Two in Tallahassee

Strike Nutrition  Morning

Rise and shine! Why not start your day with protein donuts and a shake?

Strike Nutrition strives to offer healthy food and drink without boredom. The peach cobbler and sweet potato shakes may taste like they are loaded with calories, but they only have about 250 each, according to Black Restaurant Week. The company serves refreshing, colorful teas that sometimes have themes and always look too pretty to drink.

As part of its effort to encourage physical activity, Strike Nutrition sometimes hosts workouts on the grounds and tasty recovery shakes are available for purchase afterward.

Visit their Instagram page to find out more information.

Hemplade Vegan Cafe  Afternoon

Whoever says vegan food cant be tasty hasnt been to the right restaurant.

Hemplade is not only a restaurant, but also a juice bar and a dispensary. You can enjoy vegan versions of fried fish, burgers and a Floridian take on the Philly cheesesteak. Chow down on the Hempy Green Fried Shrimp Salad, Fried Oyster Wings and the Burnie Mac BBQ Jackfruit.

Beverages include the Hemplade Lime Tea, which is great for reducing inflammation, Ying-Yang Tonic and Dandelicious. For smoothies, try the OG Tropical, SMS or Gorilla Glue varieties. If you want to add an extra bit of fun to your culinary experience, infuse any meal or side.

Visit their Instagram page to find out more information.

Halisi Afro-Fusion Cafe  Evening

Enjoy a taste of Motherland, specifically the food of Ethiopia, Kenya, and northern African countries.

Aside from injera and shero, Halisi Afro-Fusion Cafe offers Sankofa bowls. With cold drinks, like Baobab (a fruit tea with ginger and fresh mint), Bissap from Ghana and South African Tropical Fusion, you can wash down the delicious meal.

Check out the Instagram page, if you are not fully convinced.
Key Insights

Institutions' substantial holdings in St Barbara implies that they have significant influence over the company's share price

The top 9 shareholders own 51% of the company

Analyst forecasts along with ownership data serve to give a strong idea about prospects for a business

If you want to know who really controls St Barbara Limited (ASX:SBM), then you'll have to look at the makeup of its share registry. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 70% to be precise, is institutions. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

And institutional investors endured the highest losses after the company's share price fell by 14% last week. The recent loss, which adds to a one-year loss of 58% for stockholders, may not sit well with this group of investors. Also referred to as "smart money", institutions have a lot of sway over how a stock's price moves. As a result, if the decline continues, institutional investors may be pressured to sell St Barbara which might hurt individual investors.

In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of St Barbara.

Check out our latest analysis for St Barbara

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About St Barbara?

Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices.

St Barbara already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of St Barbara, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

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Investors should note that institutions actually own more than half the company, so they can collectively wield significant power. St Barbara is not owned by hedge funds. The company's largest shareholder is L1 Capital Pty. Limited, with ownership of 11%. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 8.3% and 6.8% of the stock.

We did some more digging and found that 9 of the top shareholders account for roughly 51% of the register, implying that along with larger shareholders, there are a few smaller shareholders, thereby balancing out each others interests somewhat.

While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of St Barbara

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO.

Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group.

Our most recent data indicates that insiders own some shares in St Barbara Limited. It has a market capitalization of just AU$441m, and insiders have AU$5.9m worth of shares, in their own names. This shows at least some alignment. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 27% stake in St Barbara. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Take risks for example - St Barbara has 2 warning signs we think you should be aware of.

But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

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.

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The state has denied a motion for a Fort Myers man accused of kidnapping, molesting and murdering 9-year-old Diana Alvarez in 2016 asking for separate jury trials on the different charges.

Jorge Guerrero-Torres, 34, wanted separate trials for each of the three charges he faces  first-degree murder; kidnapping; and lewd and lascivious molestation. He was already convicted on two counts of federal child pornography charges connected to the girl from her San Carlos Park home.

The murder case against Jorge Guerrero-Torres, 33, has been slowed due to constraints on court activity brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. He is accused in the Memorial Day 2016 disappearance of Diana Alvarez, 9. Her body wasn't found until 2022. Investigators believe she was killed by Jorge Guerrero-Torres, 33, who was indicted on a first-degree murder charge May 3, 2018. He was in Lee County Court on Monday for a pre-trial hearing. No trial date has been set but the judge in the case said she would like to see a Fall 2022 date.

More than a year after the girl disappeared, authorities arrested Jorge Guerrero-Torres, 34, on June 3, 2016, questioning him for about the three following days. More than a year later, the Lee County Sheriff's Office announced Aug. 15, 2017, that Guerrero-Torres was charged with two felonies in the disappearance.

Prior motions filed:Recent motions seek to block suspect's phone's search as well as his sworn statements

Case dismissed:Charges dropped against FMPD officer once accused of battery, records show

His phone was recovered after investigators narrowed their search to Daytona Beach using a geolocation device. There, they met with Steven Morehouse, who said he found the phone and charged it to locate the owner.

He was sentenced Aug. 14, 2017, to 40 years for having sexually explicit images of the girl on his cellphone.

Jorge Manuel Guerrero is accused of killing Diana Alvarez. Her remains were found in Osceola County after years of searching.

Alvarez's family last saw her on May 29, 2016, in their south Lee County home. While her body wasn't found until March 13, 2020, investigators believed Guerrero-Torres, who was indicted on a first-degree murder charge May 3, 2018, killed her.

One of several recent motions

This is one of several motions Guerrero-Torres' attorney has filed recently.

A series of motions filed in July 2021 on behalf of Guerrero-Torres sought to exclude death as a possible penalty; compel the prosecution to outline its trial strategy; exclude evidence that would create sympathy for Alvarez; and to declare unconstitutional the use of felony murder as an aggravating factor.

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Those motions were met by state responses in September 2021 to have them all rejected.

Two more motions, filed Dec. 6, 2022, say a search of his phone violated Guerrero-Torres' rights under the U.S. and Florida constitutions.

The first of the two alleges the cellphone belonging to Guerrero-Torres was "seized illegally without a warrant" the day after authorities placed it into evidence.

The first of the motions also cited the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution as the base of its argument, which protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures without probable cause.

The latter of the motions sought to block Guerrero-Torres' statements to law enforcement.

It argued that Guerrero-Torres' statements during his initial arrest reflected a lack of understanding of his right to have an attorney.

A motion said that during that time Guerrero-Torres "was isolated in settings where he could not sleep," with intermittent contact with law enforcement and no counsel.

It also alleged Guerrero-Torres doesn't speak English and requires a translator.

Guerrero-Torres is next due in court March 13 for a pretrial conference before Lee Circuit Judge Margaret Steinbeck, followed by March 21; March 22; and April 21 motions hearings.

Tomas Rodriguez is a Breaking/Live News Reporter for the Naples Daily News and The News-Press. You can reach Tomas at TRodriguez@gannett.com or 772-333-5501. Connect with him on Twitter @TomasFRoBeltran, Instagram @tomasfrobeltran and Facebook @tomasrodrigueznews.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: 2016 San Carlos Park child pornographer inches closer to trial in death
President Biden has repeatedly raised with Chinese President Xi Jinping the need for Beijing to address the origins of COVID-19, the State Department said on Monday, following reports that a new intelligence assessment favors a theory that the global pandemic resulted from a lab leak in the Chinese city of Wuhan in 2019.

State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said the president and his most senior officials have pressed Beijing to provide more information and allow international investigations to take place unimpeded as part of efforts to determine where the virus originated.

The President has raised this, the Secretary [of State] has raised this, the National Security Adviser has raised this, its been raised repeatedly and consistently at various levels because it is that important to us, Price said of administration efforts to impress upon the [Peoples Republic of China] the importance of transparency.

Ongoing questions surrounding COVID-19s origins are a vexing irritant in the U.S. and China relationship, with tensions between Washington and Beijing newly roiling over the discovery of a Chinese spy balloon in late January, plus Beijings close ties with Russia amid its war in Ukraine and the risk of conflict related to Taiwan.

Price would not confirm a reported intelligence conclusion from the Department of Energy that assessed with low confidence that the outbreak of COVID-19 was the result of an accidental leak at a laboratory. It was first reported by the Wall Street Journal on Sunday.

Instead, Price pointed to a variety of views within the intelligence community that have lent support to two of the main theories for the origins of the virus: the virus leaked from a lab  in particular, the Wuhan Institute of Virology  or was the result of animal-to-human transmission. Price added that some intelligence agencies have reached no answer.

There are some elements within the intelligence community that have reached conclusions on one side. There are others that have reached conclusions on the other. There are a number of intelligence community agencies that have put forward an assessment that essentially makes clear they dont have enough information to conclude one way or another, he said.

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The White House on Monday also downplayed and would not confirm the report on the Energy Department assessment, saying there is no government consensus yet about what caused the outbreak.

An unclassified summary published by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence in August 2021 was inconclusive over the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying both the lab leak theory and naturally occurring theory were plausible.

The report cited assessments from at least nine intelligence agencies that are part of the 18 intelligence offices of the U.S. government. Despite varying conclusions, they reached consensus on ruling out that COVID-19 was rooted in biological weapons research.

Price, along with other U.S. officials, has criticized the Chinese government as obstructing international investigations into the origins of COVID-19, specifically for withholding data related to a report published in March 2021 by World Health Organization investigators into the origins of the virus.

Unfortunately, the PRC has been blocking from the very beginning, the ability of international investigators and members of the global health community from accessing the information that they would need to form their own conclusions to come to their own judgments, Price said.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said Monday that certain parties should stop rehashing the lab leak narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing, in response to a question over the reported conclusions by the Department of Energy.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
As police departments across the state and nation find new ways to recruit officers after contending with staffing challenges in recent years, many are putting an emphasis on diversifying their ranks.

To that end, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety is seeking proposals from city, county and tribal law enforcement departments statewide for Pathways to Policing  a grant program aimed at incentivizing police agencies to recruit officers from underrepresented communities.

Following the murder of George Floyd by a then-Minneapolis police officer and the increased scrutiny on policing, recruitment of officers from underrepresented communities has emerged as a potential solution to improving the relationships between officers and the communities they police.

The program

The Pathways to Policing program is funded by a $390,000 allocation from the Minnesota Legislature to the Minnesota Office of Justice Programs (OJP) as part of its yearly budget. Reimbursement grants ranging from $20,000 to $60,000 are given to departments to cover 50% of wages and salaries, training, equipment or tuition and books for candidates pursuing law enforcement degrees, among other costs.

The deadline for departments to submit a grant proposal is March 14.

The program is aimed at recruiting more officers to a profession that has historically been very white. According to a 2020 report by the Bureau of Justice Statistics, about 69% of local police departments are white, which is down from nearly 79% in 1997. The number of Hispanic officers has almost doubled in the same time frame from 7.8% to 14.2%, but the proportion of Black officers has remained at just under 12%.

Several police departments applied to take advantage of the program last year, including St. Paul, which received $75,000 to fund six new cadets. St. Louis Park was awarded more than $63,000 to fund three officers. Carver County, with a more than $45,000 award, funded two recruits. But since the program began in 2017, fewer than 10 departments have applied for the funding each year.

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If we had 10 or 15 applicants, thatd be awesome. Itd be great to have that level of interest, OJP grant program administrator Kristin Lail told law enforcement officials during a Wednesday webinar explaining the application process. I know that the state Legislature is interested in maybe increasing this funding, but weve never been able to really request that because weve never spent all the funds.

Additional efforts

Police staffing shortages have persisted in the Twin Cities in the years since Floyds murder after an exodus of officers due to retirements, resignations and PTSD leaves following the unrest in 2020. As applicants dwindle, departments are trying several methods to boost those numbers, including hiring and retention bonuses, as well as internships for high school students interested in law enforcement.

In addition to the state program, one Minnesota congressman is working to expand the program nationwide.Rep. Dean Phillips, D-2nd District, introduced legislation last year that would give $50 million to the Department of Justice (DOJ) to create Minnesota-style Pathways to Policing programs in states across the nation. Another $50 million would go toward a nationwide law enforcement marketing and recruitment campaign by the DOJ to target candidates from nontraditional backgrounds.

Justice and safety are not mutually exclusive, theyre mutually mandatory, Phillips told constituents during a town hall last week at Anoka High School. Im on a mission to try to repopulate our police departments around the country and raise the esteem of public service among young people, and I think we can all play a role in that.

Though Phillips said the bill has bipartisan support, whether it moves forward is a different story. When asked by an Anoka resident whether anything would get done with a divided Congress after Republicans took control of the House in January, Phillips expressed some doubts.

I think theres a spirit of cooperation that might affect some meaningful legislation even with some challenges ahead, Phillips said. But with a presidential election coming up, with a split House and Senate, the fact is politics are likely to take over as it often does, but were going to give it our best shot.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Not all departments take state funds to recruit diverse officers
A Steuben County man is dead following a snowmobile crash Saturday in Lewis County, east of Watertown in northern New York.

The Lewis County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as Dean C. Cole, 54, of Lewis Road in Cameron Mills.

The crash occurred shortly before 5:30 p.m. Saturday on Trail C5A (Flat Rock Road) in the town of Martinsburg, the sheriff's office said.

Dean Cole

Cole was westbound on a 2023 Polaris Assault 350 snowmobile when for some reason he exited the north side of the trail and struck a tree, deputies said.

Witnesses who were nearby immediately attended to Cole and performed CPR until emergency responders arrived.

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Cole was transported to the emergency department at Lewis County General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

New York State Police assisted at the scene, along with Lewis County Search & Rescue and Martinsburg Fire.

Cole ran a dairy farm on Lewis Road in Cameron Mills, where he lived with his wife, Mary, according to longtime neighbor Janie Ferguson, who said the small, rural community south of Bath is in shock.

"We considered Dean a friend, and a good neighbor, too. He is a hard worker, and I would describe him as a laid-back kind of fellow," Ferguson said.

"We have kind of a bartering system set up with them, as many country folks do. We do for them, and they in turn have done for us, too," she said. "Cameron Mills is a tight-knit small hamlet, and all of Cameron Mills grieves with them over his loss."

Tina Abbey of Addison grew up in that area and went to school with Cole's children.

"I used to hang with his family up at their family pond and go help on the farm every once in a while," Abbey said. "I can say he was a family man and loved his farm and running it with his wife and three kids.

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"My prayers are with the family and friends as they go through this difficult time," Abbey wrote on her Facebook page. "R.I.P. Dean Cole, you will missed by so many."

Follow Jeff Murray on Twitter @SGJeffMurray. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on The Leader: Steuben County man dies in weekend snowmobile crash in Lewis County
John and Katherine Cooper, like Russ and Julia Bouws, had a farmers work ethic.

John Cooper was the son of Jacob and Ida Post Cooper. Both Jacob and Ida emigrated from the Netherlands with their parents in 1879, to Tallmadge Township. John was born in 1893. After completing the fifth grade, he quit school to work on his fathers farm.

John married Katherine Fuller. She was a descendent of the Cones, who'd emigrated to America and settled in Haddam, Connecticut, in 1662. John and Katherine lived near each other and went to the same school. Their relationship blossomed when John asked Katherine if he could walk her home from a house party in 1916.

They married in March 1917. After traveling to Niagara Falls for their honeymoon, they returned to Michigan and rented a farm. Their son, Charles, was born in December.

Katherine Cooper from Gerald Coopers Holland Motor Express

When Johns brother, Harry, returned from World War I, he joined John on the farm. Unfortunately, at harvest time, when they were unloading hay with giant forks connected to ropes and pulleys  which they attached to the beams in the barn and a horse  one of the hayforks broke loose and pierced Harry. He died the next day. From that point on, John questioned if farming was his vocation.

In August 1919, John and Katherines son, Robert, was born.

In 1924, the Cooper family moved to Marne, where John bought his first truck to haul farm commodities for his neighbors. He hauled wheat from the threshing floor to the flour mill, baled hay and straw, loads of potatoes, even cows. He also hauled household goods. Then, he began hauling farm products and freight to and from the Grand Rapids depot of the Pere Marquette Railroad.

In the late 1920s, John hauled gravel for the construction of M-21 between Grand Rapids and Holland; he also hauled freight to and from Chicago for another trucking concern, Grand Rapids Motor Express.

Then he met a man who wanted him to haul pulp-wood in the Upper Peninsula between the forest near Trout Lake and boxcars in Rexford, so the railroad could ship the wood to the Muskegon Paper Company. So, in 1928, in Cadillac, on his way to the Upper Peninsula, John traded in his old truck for two new ones, so he and his brother Merle could do the job.

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He took Katherine, Charles and Robert along. That summer, the family lived in a tent. To help them, John and Merle hired a Native American, Josh Brady.

In 1929, John moved his business to Holland, thinking he could haul products between Grand Rapids and Chicago. But at first, John wasn't able to find customers. Then he found a shipper with a load of fruit, and slowly sales, but not profits, began to grow.

John served as the Chicago branch manager. Charles Lautenbach, a third partner, served as the Holland manager. Because the interstate did not yet exist, the drive was full of square corners, meaning a one-way trip took 10 hours. As John was the only driver, he got little sleep.

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In Holland, the partnership rented a small room in a former cannery on the northwest corner of Fifth Street and Central Avenue. Katherine did the bookkeeping, using an old kitchen table for a desk. But when, in 1929, the stock market crashed and the Great Depression set in, there was little freight to haul, and the business lost its two trucks to a finance company.

Undaunted, John and Katherine found rigs to hire, then a truck and trailer to lease.

In those days, trucks didn't have sleepers. To save money, John rented a room in Chicago with a competitor from Grand Rapids. But that room had only one bed. So, when John and the other driver were both in Chicago at the same time, the room was uncomfortably crowded.

Steve VanderVeen

Back in Holland, during the winter months, there was no heat in the office; so, Katherine filled a cardboard box with straw and placed her feet inside to keep warm. At first, she did her paperwork in pencil, until a shipper wondered why the company didn't use a typewriter. Katherine found one to rent.

The business got a break when Hart and Cooley became its first regular customer.

More on that next week.

 Community Columnist Steve VanderVeen is a resident of Holland. Contact him through start-upacademeinc.com.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Holland History: The foundation of Holland's same-name trucking company
Steven Spielberg and Bruce the shark in "Jaws." P.Lehman/Future Publishing via Getty Images/Universal Picture

Director Steven Spielberg said he didn't expect "Jaws" to be a huge success.

He originally thought the shark "looked dumb."

Spielberg said he was surprised to see such a visceral reaction at an early screening he went to.

Steven Spielberg is arguably one of the most famous directors of all time thanks to a number of hugely successful movies like "Jaws," "Raiders of the Lost Ark," "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial," "Schindler's List," and "Saving Private Ryan."

Spielberg's most recent movie, "The Fabelmans," was a particularly emotional project for the director as it's loosely based on his own life.

During an interview with W magazine, the Academy Award-winning director recalled what it was like seeing "Jaws" become a huge success back in 1975. Spielberg was just 26 when he directed the movie.

Spielberg said: "I never would have guessed that so many people would have gone to see Jaws. In my mind, the shark looked dumb."

The director went on to say that the first preview screening of "Jaws" shocked him because the audience was "screaming" at the chaos that unfolded onscreen.

He said: "When I went to the first preview, in Dallas, and people were screaming and popcorn was flying at the screen, my first feeling was, 'Oh my god! I didn't think any of this was going to work.'"

"Jaws" was an incredible success that propelled Spielberg's career, as it raked in $476.5 million worldwide after three re-releases, as well as winning best film editing, best sound, and best original dramatic score at the 1976 Oscars. It has even been preserved by the Library of Congress in the National Film Registry because of its success and importance to the film industry.

Spielberg also told W magazine that it wasn't something he could've predicted, saying: "The truth is, you never ever know."

When asked about his first directing job on the anthology series, "Night Gallery," Spielberg recalled that he originally didn't get any work for "a year" because he tried a variety of ambitious camera shots for the episode which seemingly didn't fit the network's expectations.

He said: "I didn't care about getting another job. I knew I would eventually work again, but I didn't work for a year because of my clever camerawork on that show. I did jump cuts, shots through the chandelier, all kinds of great shots. I didn't care if it cost me work; I just wanted to do what I thought was right for that show."

Read the original article on Insider
Former President Jimmy Carter might have more time left despite deciding to receive end-of life care instead of additional medical intervention, according to the 98-year-old's niece.

Leanne Smith told FOX News Digital that the former president had a "good day" Sunday, adding that she feels like "he's still got some time in him."

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Carter entered hospice care, opting to forgo any additional medical treatment, according to a Feb. 18 statement Saturday from the Carter Center, the charity created by Carter and his wife Rosalynn in 1982.

"After a series of short hospital stays, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter today decided to spend his remaining time at home with his family and receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention. He has the full support of his family and his medical team," the statement read.

At 98, he's lived longer than any other former commander-in-chief. And his 42 years after leaving the White House means he has spent more time as an ex-president than anyone else.

'They are at peace': Jimmy Carter enters hospice care with full support of family, doctors

In 2015, Carter shared that he had been diagnosed with cancer  metastatic melanoma  found during a surgery on his liver, which had spread to his brain. Several months later, Carter announced he was no longer receiving treatment and that his scans didn't show signs of cancer.

Shortly after the news of Carter's move to hospice care, Kim Fuller, another niece of Carter's, spoke about her uncle's legacy during a sermon at the Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where the former President previously taught, according to FOX News Digital.

"He had a good day," Smith told FOX News Digital. "In fact, about 30 minutes ago, I got a text. They knew I made broccoli and cheese soup, so before I came to meet with you, I dropped broccoli and cheese soup off to be delivered to the house, because he's eating and talking  so it is amazing. He's still got some time in him. I just feel like it."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'A good day': Former President Jimmy Carter doing well in hospice care
Shawanda Lamones, her husband Ralph Lamones and their daughter A' Sasha Lamones in front of the home where they lived when Maebelle Cooper was shot and killed during what is being called a gang-related incident. Lamones is calling for the Lakeland Police Department to find and arrest those responsible for the 2020 Christmas Eve shooting death of her mother.

LAKELAND  In the aftermath of last months drive-by shooting that injured 11 people, a Lakeland family is renewing its calls for Lakeland Police Department to find justice in a 2020 Christmas Eve shooting that killed a 70-year-old grandmother and injured three others.

Shawanda Lamones, 41, said its been a life-altering two years since she watched her mother, Maebelle Cooper, die in the front yard of her Amos Street home. Lamones has moved her family to a new house, enrolled herself and children in therapy, and fears daily for their safety.

Also: Lakeland police arrest 3rd man wanted in connection to Jan. 30 mass shooting

More: How many mass shootings have there been in Florida in 2023?

Despite identifying suspects captured on a neighbors security camera and providing police with social media evidence, Lamones said the Lakeland Police Department has yet to arrest those responsible for what they are calling a gang-related shooting.

My concern is they could do this again, feeling they got away with it if the police dont go and lock up the people who are responsible, Lamones said. It will continue to affect the community.

On Dec. 24, 2020, Lamones son had gone to Simpson Park to purchase a phone from a friend but was robbed of $220 at gunpoint by two men. She received a call from her son saying he was in trouble and rushed to the park with her husband, Ralph Lamones.

Shawanda Lamones holds a photo of her mother Maebelle Cooper who was who as killed on Christmas Eve in 2020. Despite identifying suspects captured on a neighbors security camera and providing police with social media evidence, Lamones said the Lakeland Police Department has yet to make any arrests in what they are calling a gang-related incident.

Lamones confronted Alfurquan ONeal demanding he return her sons money. When informed O`Neal was armed with a gun, Lamones said she had her husband grab her permitted conceal carry gun from her purse, pointed it at ONeal and pressured him to hand over the firearm.

Upon arriving home, Lamones said her family members came outside to learn what was happening. Within minutes, two cars rolled up filled with people along with a man on a four-wheeler and a man on a dirt bike. Lamones said several men got out of the cars with guns and pointed them at her family.

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Lamones said she knew some of the individuals, having grown up alongside them in the neighborhood. She said she attempted to deescalate the situation, by talking to the men. Gunfire broke out with Lamones, her husband and her 13-year-old daughter injured. Cooper, 70, was fatally shot.

Ralph Lamones shows the scar from a bullet wound he sustained during a shooting that happened on Dec. 24, 2020.

ONeal, who was shot in the melee, was immediately arrested on Jan. 6, 2022. Polk County Court Records show ONeal pleaded no contest on Jan. 13 to a felony-count of robbery with a firearm and misdemeanor charges of trespassing, resisting an officer without violence, improper exhibition of a dangerous weapon and driving without a drivers license. The plea agreement will have him serve 72 months in state prison.

Lamones said Lakeland police have not been responsive in providing updates on her mothers case, as she waits to hear of additional arrests. She said multiple phone calls and emails have gone unanswered. Lamones said she has provided police with the first and last names of individuals she said were involved in the shooting, along with social media posts she believes confirm their involvement.

Her 13-year-old daughter has requested to do a lineup, according to Lamones, waiting the opportunity to identify the man who shot her.

Lakeland Police are asking for the public's help identifying two men seen running from the scene of a shooting that occurred on Dec. 24, 2020 and left a 70-year-old woman dead.

They are not honoring our requests, Lamones said. They keep telling us, its a process.

The case remains an open and active investigation with hundreds of hours spent on it, LPD spokesperson Robin Tillet said.

We continue to hope that someone will come forward with critical information to help ensure the person responsible for Ms. Cooper's death is held accountable, read an emailed LPD statement.

Lakeland Police are asking for the public's help identifying two men seen running from the scene of a shooting that occurred on Dec. 24, 2020 and left a 70-year-old woman dead.

LPD has partnered with Heartland Crime Stoppers to offer a reward of up to $5,000 for anyone who offers information that leads to an arrest in the shooting. Tips remain anonymous when submitted through Crime Stoppers. Individuals can call 1-800-226-TIPS (8477), text to **TIPS, or visit their website at www.heartlandcrimestoppers.com and click on Submit a Tip.

Lamones provided The Ledger with documentation that she had reached out to Polk County Sheriff's Office, former Lakeland Mayor Gow Fields, the U.S. State Attorney's Office and Florida Department of Law Enforcement for help getting closure to her mother's death. Polk Sherrif Grady Judd's announcement earlier this month of a countywide Violent Gang Investigative Task Force has given the family renewed hope that this shooting can be brought to the group for review, uncovering evidence to result in an arrest and charges, according to Lamones. She is weighing whether to hire an attorney to help ensure there is justice for her mothers death.

Graves destroyed: Bartow repairs headstones in Wildwood Cemetery damaged by driver allegedly fleeing police

My mom was a strong believer in God. My faith stays with him that you will reap whatever you sow, she said. Whats done in the dark will eventually come to light.

Sara-Megan Walsh can be reached at swalsh@theledger.com or 863-802-7545. Follow on Twitter @SaraWalshFl.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: 2020 shooting that killed a 70-year-old grandmother still unsolved
Kristin Enmark, the hostage takers, and the police who made a surprising amount of mistakes while responding to a heist (Getty/The Police)

The pair of therapists  one Swedish, one Canadian, and both sporting shocks of white hair  met for the first time several years ago in a Stockholm cafe, at the suggestion of a mutual acquaintance. Allan Wade, who runs a family practice on Vancouver Island and has a particular interest in victim resistance and responses, was extremely curious to hear his Swedish counterparts thoughts on Stockholm Syndrome. After a while, it was clear there was more to be said. They headed across the alley to Kristin Enmarks office for a wide-ranging, three-hour conversation.

But Enmark wasnt speaking in her capacity as a couples therapist. She was speaking instead as a hostage in the 1973 Swedish bank heist ordeal that sparked the term Stockholm Syndrome in the first place.

And her story suggests that everything we think we know about Stockholm Syndrome is essentially a lie.

Mr Wade was there to look at the circumstances and see if this idea that she had somehow bonded with her captors and wrongly criticized authorities and therefore suffered from this syndrome  if that, in fact, made any sense at all, he tells The Independent. And quite quickly, once we are looking at the events in question, you could see that the analysis  or the lack of analysis  that had been presented as truth really began to fall apart like a house of cards.

The bank heist in August 1973 caught Sweden  and its law enforcement officials  completely off-guard (AFP via Getty Images)

Stockholm Syndrome is high up there on the list of psychological terms familiar to members of the public. Just like with OCD or manic, the average person throws around the phrase with no real understanding of its meaning. Indeed, even among psychologists, its unclear what the definition of Stockholm Syndrome should actually be.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines Stockholm Syndrome as the psychological tendency of a hostage to bond with, identify with, or sympathize with his or her captor. But the American Psychiatric Associations Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) doesnt define Stockholm Syndrome at all. Its never met the strict review requirements to be included; in fact, it seems that no one ever submitted it for inclusion in the first place. That means there are no identified diagnostic criteria at all for the alleged condition.

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I think, in part, it has become a meme that people use to describe all kinds of situations which wouldnt technically fit the original description, Dr Paul Applebaum, chair of DSM Steering Committee and Dollard Professor of Psychiatry, Medicine and Law at Columbia University, tells The Independent.

Given the terms cultural prevalence, its suprising that theres not a widespread knowledge of the eyebrow-raising tale behind it. It is a true story that feels unbelievable, complete with criminals with movie-star good looks, bungled police responses and the personal involvement of a head of state. The storys well known in Sweden  as is Ms Enmarks name  and various Swedish-language productions, such as Netflixs 2022 Clark, have explored it. But its far lesser known among more international audiences.

Yet understanding what happened is key to understanding what we all do when we use the term Stockholm Syndrome.

Convicted criminal Jan-Erik Olsson, while on furlough from prison, walked into a bank in Norrmalmstorg, Stockholm on 23 August 1973, fired into the ceiling and tried to rob it. When police quickly arrived, he took three hostages inside the bank  a number later increased by one, after another bank employee was found in a storeroom  and demanded the equivalent of $700,000 in Swedish and foreign currency, as well as the release of an infamously charismatic and handsome criminal he knew from prison, Clark Olofsson.

This type of armed hostage crisis was unheard of in Sweden. Certainly the police had no blueprint for such a situation.

Press photographers and police snipers lie side-by-side on a roof opposite the Kreditbanken bank on Norrmalmstorg square in Stockholm on 24 August 1973. One of the hostages, Kristin Enmark, has said she feared being killed by police more than being harmed by the hostage-takers (AFP via Getty Images)

I believed a maniac had come into my life, Ms Enmark, who was 23 years old and a bank employee, told the New Yorker in 1974. I believed I was seeing something that could happen only in America.

Jan-Erik had disguised his appearance and voice, speaking English with an American accent, and police did not accurately identify him for days. They did, however, bring his old prison friend Clark to the bank. But they did it in a very particular kind of way, as a double agent, in effect, Mr Wade says. Jan-Erik suddenly found himself in a hostage-taking [situation.] He intended a quick getaway bank robbery, and now he was in a situation; he knew he was stuck. So he demanded that Clark Olofsson be allowed to come in.

And of course, Clark Olofsson was not an original bank robber or hostage taker, and before the police let Clark Olofsson go into the bank, they had made an agreement with him that his job was to help the situation be resolved properly and to make sure people didnt get hurt, and then they might look at commuting his sentence.

Things did calm down temporarily when Clark arrived, and Ms Enmark was allowed to make phone calls, along with fellow hostages Birgitta Lundbland, Elisabeth Oldgren and Sven Safstrom. Then police made a surprising mistake. They believed that they had positively identified who the bank robber was  except they hadnt. Believing him to be another infamous bank robber who had previously escaped from prison, they sent in that bank robbers civilian brother, along with an accompanying cop, in an effort to talk their hostage-taker down.

Immediately, confusion reined. Jan-Erik fired towards the strangers, who made a hasty retreat. The bank robber who Swedish authorities believed was inside was actually on the lam in Hawaii. Incensed by the accusation that he was behind the heist, he called Swedish police to protest that he was not the hostage-taker  a move that got him arrested, extradited and put back in prison.

None of this inspired confidence in the hostages that the situation was going to end peacefully. And as they watched police flounder with increasing concern, so did the rest of Sweden: The crisis was the first televised crime in the country, with nearly three-quarters of the population tuning in at the height of viewing.

Inside, both Jan-Erik and Ms Enmark rang the prime minister of Sweden, Olof Palmme, who personally took the calls. He spent nearly an hour on the phone with Ms Enmark, who shared her fears of dying at the hands of police in a bungled rescue operation. She later claimed he told her that, should she be killed during a police attempt to squelch the standoff, she should be content to have died at her post.

It really is extraordinary, Mr Wade tells The Independent. There you see a determined, intelligent, desperate young woman trying to reason with the prime minister of Sweden and trying to bring some kind of safe closure to these events and to protect the other hostages.

Jan-Erik Olsson was paraded through the street after police took him into custody following the five-day siege (AFP via Getty Images)

In the end, six and a half days into the crisis, police stormed the bank with tear gas  even though Jan-Erik had threatened to kill the hostages upon a gas attack  and took him into custody. Not only were Swedes watching on television, but they had also gathered in the streets by that point. Authorities paraded Jan-Erik before the crowds in a show of triumph.

The hostages, however  particularly Ms Enmark  did not behave in the way police expected. As they appeared critical of police and friendly towards the hostage-taker, consultant psychiatrist Nils Bejerot  who never met or treated Ms Enmark  explained it away as Norrmalmstorg syndrome, which came to be known outside of Sweden as Stockholm Syndrome. The application of the term to the experience of Patty Hearst, who was kidnapped the year after the Stockholm heist and appeared to have a similar reaction toward her situation, further cemented Stockholm Syndrome in the American and international psyche.

Without proper examination of the August 1973 events, it seems inconceivable that someone would identify with a captor over authorities. Upon taking a closer look at the Norrmalmstorg maelstrom, however, its not hard to see why two Swedish criminals may have seemed a safer option for the hostages.

When you begin to focus on in such detail, often events begin to take on a very different appearance, Mr Wade tells The Independent. The problematic police responses, the disorganized police responses, mistaken identity ... Heres a 23-year-old young woman, one of four hostages, from the north of Sweden, who hadnt been in Stockholm very long, and all of this is happening.

Shes watching the police bungle the early stages of this and noticing that she becomes less safe rather than more safe, and shes also been managing Jan-Erik.

After hearing Ms Enmark recount the events decades later, Mr Wade says, he noticed she was very emotional ... in two senses.

One, sometimes there was a certain sense of wonderment and even indignation at: How could things have been so horribly misunderstood? How could things not really have been looked at? he says. And at other times, there were strong emotions about the events themselves that she was recalling.

Kristin Enmark is pictured after Swedish police ended the 1973 standoff with tear gas; no hostages were killed (Alamy Stock Photo)

There was certainly a strong emotional response last month when one Twitter user highlighted the real circumstances that birthed Stockholm Syndrome, paraphrasing portions of a 2019 book (See What You Made Me Do: Power Control and Domestic Abuse) in a thread that promoted huge interest. It wasnt the first time that the author of that book, Jess Hill, had seen her work go viral.

It does shock people ... and theres so many people who have not heard this story, Ms Hill tells The Independent. And it seems like, as each person finds out about it, whats amazing is that, once they read the story, its immediately persuasive. Its immediate  that this is bulls**t. And thats whats so powerful about the story.

I could talk for hours about why victims behave in certain ways, and why we shouldnt just presume that theyre crazy. But instead, just by telling that story and showing how authority can just literally make something up on the spot to excuse itself, its like a shorthand for people to undestand how so many other things that weve come to believe could be wrong.

Mr Wade calls Stockholm Syndrome one of a whole network of concepts that ... shift focus away from the powerful role of ... institutional responses. He adds that such concepts also tend to protect offenders because, instead of looking at strategies used by perpetrators to suppress victims, resistance theories such as Stockholm Syndrome and others (theres a long list of them: identification with the aggressor, infantilization, traumatic bonding, learned helplessness, internalization, false consciousness, it goes on and on) dont evolve focus on how victimized people have responded to and resisted violence. Rather, they assume that they did not.

Its part of a family of notions that stem from hyper-individual, problematic notions in psychology and psychiatry, rather than careful analysis of circumstances on the ground.

Kristin Enmark, left, poses with therapist Allan Wades partner, Cathy, in Sweden (Allan Wade)

While Stockholm Syndrome may be familiar as a term to many, the condition rarely comes up in medical circles, Dr Applebaum says.

If you ask what most clinicians, mental health professionals think about, I would say: They dont think about it, he says. Its not an issue that is on their minds day to day ... Most of them have never seen and will never see a case like this and know relatively little about it.

He adds that, just because a rare syndrome is not embodied in the DSM, [it] doesnt necessarily mean that it doesnt exist, that its not a real thing.

It may simply mean that the fairly rigorous criteria for inclusion havent been met and and perhaps cant be met, he says. So Stockholm Syndrome is not recognized as a as a discrete mental disorder. In the DSM, theres been, for almost the last decade, a process that has existed whereby people who have evidence or have accumulated evidence of the validity of a proposed disorder can submit it to the review process. Weve never received such a submission for Stockholm Syndrome. So there hasnt even been an effort to assemble the existing data, develop diagnostic criteria, and submit it for review.

He says that Stockholm Syndrome, as classically described, appears to represent something of an unconscious reaction by the person whos being held captive in which they slowly begin to adjust their frame of reference and identify with their captors. The identification can be so extreme that in some of these cases, given opportunities to escape, they dont take them.

But forging a relationship with a captor could be seen as a clear and conscious survival strategy, as well  and Dr Applebaum acknowledges there are several possible complexities here.

We may not be able to create or recognize a clear dichotomy between conscious and unconscious strategies, he says. Conscious strategies may lead to unconscious identification, right? Youre nice enough to somebody for so long and because you want to propitiate them, and they, at least, are non-abusive in their responses to your behavior... You may come over time to unconsciously identify with them. So one can morph into the other. And its also possible for both both sets of motivations to exist simultaneously, both the conscious and unconscious reaction that may complement each other.

The human mind is complex.

Canadian therapist Allan Wade has spoken at length with Kristin Enmark about her experiences, Stockholm Syndrome and its problematic implications for women (YouTube)

The world was quick to embrace without question an explanation that the Swedish hostages had essentially fallen under the spell of their attackers. There was little mention of the days spent under siege by inept police, the hostages firsthand experiences of authorities mistakes, or the fact that Nils Bejerot never even treated Ms Enmark. Nor was there a discussion about whether Ms Enmarks reactions were simply nuanced, when others expected a black-and-white response to a hero-and-villain story that wasnt as simplistic as it seemed. Women have historically been diagnosed from afar by male psychiatrists with a number of bogus disorders. Its hard to believe that sexism didnt affect the claims of Stockholm Syndrome.

Mr Wade believes that Stockholm Syndrome is rooted in institutionalized attitudes and inequalities that have persisted for centuries.

These practices of implanting pathologies in the minds, brains and bodies of oppressed people, theyre inherent to what we might call colonialism, patriatchy, different forms of racism, different forms of violence and oppression, he says. So this is not sort of an accidental or uncommon problematic way of thinking; rather, it is endemic.

And he adds, concerningly, that he believes its larger-scale now than it ever has been.

The veritable hijacking of the heist history, Ms Hill says, is a straightforward story that shows so clearly how this process can be manipulated by people in power to make victims look like they are crazy. It also proves, she adds, just how easy it is to just establish a syndrome based on no diagnostic criteria at all  and to never even have diagnostic criteria developed. Ever.

Shed like to think the world has progressed a long way in the last 50 years, but as she continues to witness and write about systems to excuse the perpetrator and to blame the victim, its difficult.

Honestly, sometimes I feel like we can have these really high times where we really get to a point where its like: Surely now its going to turn, were moving to a better place, she says. And then the backlash comes through, and you feel like youve gone five steps backwards.
Two men were arrested earlier this month in gas station ripoffs around Florida.

According to the Lee County Sheriffs Office, deputies got a tip from the Oklahoma-based corporate office of Loves Travel Stop that two people were fueling up with counterfeit credit cards at their establishments.

Lee deputies were to be on the lookout for a white Dodge Ram 3500 and a white Chevrolet Silverado.

An employee at a Loves in North Fort Myers saw the trucks on Feb. 22 and called cops.

READ MORE: She was pulled over for not wearing a seat belt, then cops searched her leggings

When a deputy arrived around 4 p.m., he saw the Dodge Ram in front of an air pump and made contact with Antonio Medina, 37, who said he was the vehicles owner.

As the deputy searched the bed, he found a gopher tortoise.

Medina said that he had found the animal on the side of Interstate-75.

The deputy called the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to handle the reptile.

Further investigation found that Medina carried a counterfeit credit card in his wallet and he was arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of the personal identification of another person.

During his investigation at the Loves, the Lee County deputy noticed the other suspect, Yusniel Sainz, 36, driving by in a Chevrolet Silverado. Dispatch sent deputies to pull Sainz over.

The 36-year-old was arrested on charges of unlawful conveyance of fuel. He did not have a reptile in his truck bed, but did have a so called fuel cell, which is used to store large amounts of gas.

Julie Martin, a spokeperson with the law enforcement agency, told the Miami Herald that the men were using cloned cards to pay for the gas throughout various Loves stations, and that both have since been released on bond.

As for the tortoise, it is safely with the Fish and Wildlife agency.

READ MORE: Florida man was pulled over for a suspected DUI, then he cracked a beer
SHAWNEE, Okla.  Parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas were blasted by wild storms and tornadoes while heavy rain and snow blanketed much of California and parts of the West on Monday as belligerent weather marched menacingly across the nation.

A winter storm watch was in effect across much of the Northeast. And in Michigan, more than 157,000 homes and businesses remained in the dark Monday night after five days of high winds, snow and ice that wreaked havoc on power lines.

Elsewhere in the Midwest, a tornado watch was in effect Monday afternoon across much of Ohio as storms crossed the state. Portions of the Columbus metro area were under a tornado warning late Monday afternoon. There was a report of an unconfirmed tornado touchdown earlier Monday afternoon in Germantown, Ohio, about 15 miles southwest of Dayton, according to the National Weather Service.

Nine confirmed or suspected tornadoes swept through Kansas and Oklahoma late Sunday and early Monday, the National Weather Service reported. Texas was also blasted by storms that packed heavy winds and hail in some areas  a wind gust of 114 mph was reported in Memphis, Texas, 130 miles northeast of Lubbock. More than a dozen injuries were reported in the region.

A lot of us didnt get to get in (shelters), it was that quick, said Dia Ingersoll, 42, hours after an apparent tornado raced through Shawnee, 40 miles east of Oklahoma City.

New York City braces for biggest snowfall of winter

While the heaviest snow is expected in parts of upstate New York and New England, New York City is predicted to have its largest snowfall so far for this winter.

New York City has yet to have measurable snow this winter but AccuWeather forecasters said precipitation was expected for the city Monday night.

As temperatures near the freezing mark, the precipitation will likely be a mix of snow, sleet, and rain which will continue overnight into Tuesday morning, AccuWeather said. Although the amount of snow will vary across the region, AccuWeather said about one to three inches of snow is expected in Manhattan and Central Park.

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"While this is, historically, not a lot of snow for New York City, it will be noticeable, especially given the lack of snow for the city so far this season," said AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dave Dombek.

Oklahoma family never made it to storm cellar

Ingersoll, who has lived in her home for 17 years, said her roof has a hole in it where her chimney was torn away by the storm. She lost some shingles and a fence and outdoor furniture was damaged, she said. Next-door neighbors took significant damage; much of their roof is gone. Ingersoll said the home began to leak gas, leading emergency vehicles to shut off the neighborhood's gas and electricity.

Ingersoll has a storm cellar in the backyard, but she, her fiance and her mother were still in their living room when the tornado struck. The family was watching news reports that a tornado had hit the nearby Shawnee Mall when "not but two minutes later it hit us."

When the electricity went out my mother was stuck in her recliner," she said. "My fiance had to jump on top of her because right next to it is a plate glass sliding door."

Nevada braces for another foot of snow

In northern Nevada, many government offices were closed except for essential personnel. The winter storm was expected to hit the Reno area around 1 p.m. local time and drop a foot of snow atop the 6 inches that fell Sunday. Mountain areas were expecting substantially more.

Bethany Drysdale, who lives in Carson City, said she was driving to work in Reno on Monday morning but eventually turned around and decided to work from home because authorities were enforcing traction control laws on Interstate 580. The area averages about 300 days of sunshine a year, said Drysdale, a spokesperson for Washoe County.

"We usually don't have this quantity of snow this late. Schools are closed, roads are covered in snow and ice, and it's windy, which makes it worse," she said. "It feels odd to be going on two months of snow on the ground in Carson City."

Blizzard warning could lead to 'amazing powder days' at ski resort

California's Mammoth Mountain Ski Area was under a blizzard warning Monday, and managers warned of "intense" snowfall and high winds. The ski area sits at 11,000 feet above sea level in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is rapidly approaching 500 inches of snowfall for the season. The resort got about 5 feet of snow last week and another 19 inches Sunday night, and 5 more feet is expected by Wednesday morning. Even before the winter ends  March is typically a snowy month  this season has been among the resort's snowiest on record.

"What a season," Mammoth spokeswoman Lauren Burke told USA TODAY. "The skiing and riding was incredible over the weekend, and while we expect limited lift operations the next few days, we are looking forward to some more amazing powder days later this week once this massive storm system moves out."

Tornado damage is pictured Monday, Feb. 27, 2023, in the Eastridge neighborhood of Norman.

Downed power lines in Norman, home of the University of Oklahoma

Severe damage was reported in Norman, home to the University of Oklahoma, as winds and tornadoes swept through the area Sunday night.

"Tornado WARNING in effect for OU-NORMAN Campus," the school tweeted late Sunday. "Seek shelter NOW inside the building you are in. Move to lowest floor/interior room." Other tweets warned the school's more than 20,000 students to stay indoors and away from windows.

Gas leaks, downed power lines, and uprooted trees were reported in Norman, Mayor Larry Heikkila told AccuWeather.

Sylvie Mawoh was reading her two children a bedtime story in their east Norman home when it came time to take shelter. They took cover inside a master bedroom closet as the tornado passed overhead, leaving damage throughout their neighborhood.

"It was scary. It felt like the whole house was going to fly away," Mawoh said.

Statewide, Oklahoma officials received reports of 55 people who suffered weather-related injuries from area hospitals.

In western Oklahoma near the town of Cheyenne, at least one person was killed and three others injured after a tornado touched down Sunday night, Roger Mills County Emergency Manager Levi Blackketter reported.

Norman officials confirmed 12 weather-related injuries and classes were canceled Monday at two damaged elementary schools, said Norman Police Chief Kevin Foster.

California sees more snow, rain; travel 'near to impossible' in Sierra

Nearly all of California was experiencing rain or snow Monday morning. Southern California and other parts of the state got some relief Sunday from the stunning snow, record rain and flooding that hit over the weekend. But another storm is expected to last through midweek.

"A continuation of cold and unsettled conditions are expected along the West Coast through midweek this week as waves of energy and moisture dive in from the Pacific," AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said.

Here are some of the latest developments:

A blizzard warning was in effect for the Sierra Nevada. The region could see snow accumulations from 2 to 6 feet with wind gusts up to 75 mph. The National Weather Service says travel will be "near to impossible."

Los Angeles County will have "cold and unsettled" weather through midweek, and the region will get up to an inch of rain. The San Fernando Valley got over 10 inches of rain over the weekend, and downtown Los Angeles had over 4 inches.

Snow levels could drop as low as 1,000 feet above sea level, AccuWeather says.

State officials were working through multiple highways closures around the Los Angeles area; snow could result in more closures.

AccuWeather senior meteorologist Adam Douty said the new storm this week "will not contain near as much moisture" as the preceding storm.

A BLIZZARD IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA: What to know about weird weather.

A person clears snow from their windshield in Los Angeles County, in the Sierra Pelona Mountains, on February 25, 2023 in Green Valley, California.

Winter storm warning in Great Lakes region; outages in Michigan

Freezing rain and snow were expected in parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan.

"Bad: Additional freezing rain & ice accumulation expected Monday," the weather service tweeted. "Good: Accumulations should be less and stay north of ice storm impacted areas."

In Michigan, more than 157,000 homes and businesses remained without power in the state Monday, according to PowerOutage.US.

Heavy snow makes it way to Northeast

A winter storm watch went into effect Monday throughout the Northeast, and snow was likely from northeast Pennsylvania across the rest of the region.

Heavy snow  several inches to a foot  was possible in the following areas:

High terrain of Vermont

High terrain of New Hampshire

Portions of Maine

Upstate New York

There's a high risk of significant travel disruptions in upstate New York and much of the New England area, AccuWeather says.

Temperatures throughout the Northeast will be below freezing; highs will be in the low 30s.

Winter storm tracker

National weather radar

Contributing: Jessie Christopher Smith, The Oklahoman; The Columbus Dispatch; The Associated Press. Follow Jordan Mendoza on Twitter: @jordan_mendoza5.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Winter weather updates: Tornadoes in Oklahoma; NYC braces for snowfall
New video has surfaced showing street stunts shutting down the intersection of South Brevard and East Brooklyn Village in Uptown Charlotte. Police said Monday they have ramped up their efforts to catch those responsible.

Witnesses told Channel 9 the situation is scary to watch because some drivers come very close to losing control of their vehicles.

I was coming back from the Charlotte HOS tournament and I started hearing skeer skeer and rummm rumm. All of a sudden I looked downstairs and guys are doing 360s, donuts. Guys are dodging out of the way, looked like somebody was about to get hit but nobody did luckily, Hunter Swenson, who was visiting the area, said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Drivers caught on camera performing burnouts, stunts near Uptown intersection

Resident Solomon Addica told Channel 9s Glenn Counts that the situation is more annoying than anything because it stops him from getting a good nights sleep.

It was awful. I mean, literally at 2 in the morning, all you hear is street cars just racing and doing burnouts. And as soon as you open your balcony door, all you smell is the smoke, Addica said.

This isnt the first time a street takeover has taken place in that area. In January, Channel 9 reported about drivers taking over the intersection outside the NASCAR Hall of Fame to perform stunts and burnouts.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said it has been working to crack down on these events with Operation Street Takeover. The departments have arrested dozens of people in the process.

Charlotte Councilman Ed Driggs spoke on latest street takeover that took place in Uptown.

It is very loud aside from being dangerous, he said.

Charlotte city council members said they are confident CMPD will crack down on these stunts.

CMPD is very aware, Driggs said. We are on it. We are trying to balance that priority with public safety, with containing violent crime.

Councilmember Marjorie Molina said she hears from frustrated residents all the time on this issue.

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It is something we are concerned about and we will be working with CMPD to find a solution that is favorable, Molina said.

Some residents said they dont think the police are doing enough to combat the problem.

I dont think they are doing enough. The only reason why I say that is because of the times they do it. Its clear that there is a strategy with the times that theyre choosing. Then even when the response comes, these cars just drip away, Addica said.

MORE PREVIOUS COVERAGE: No teeth: Prosecutors face challenges in stopping Charlottes street racers

Where I live it happens almost every single day, said neighbor Heidi Fitch.

Prosecutors say a reckless driving charge, which is what many are getting, isnt severe -- which is why it keeps happening.

It now has the attention of Rep. Carolyn Logan, whos also a retired highway patrol sergeant. Shes working with law enforcement and other lawmakers to come up with a bill that would create a harsher punishment. She told Channel 9s Dan Matics theres a lot of support from her colleagues in both the House and Senate.

We just need to get the bill formatted and introduced and see where it goes from there, Logan said.

Im hoping we can get a companion bill in the Senate because its not just happening here in Mecklenburg County. Its spreading into our other communities, she added.

In a news conference Monday, Maj. Dave Johnson with the Special Operations Bureau said in the month of February, the department has issued 54 citations, made five arrests, and towed, seized, or taken 12 vehicles into evidence.

CMPD's Transportation Division has ramped up efforts to crack down on reckless driving groups. In Feb. alone, officers issued 54 citations, made 5 arrests, and seized/held as evidence 12 vehicles. CMPD will continue to hold targeted enforcement efforts to address these issues. pic.twitter.com/ouigSvK9KM  CMPD News (@CMPD) February 27, 2023

He said the takeovers in the Charlotte area are part of a national phenomenon thats social media-driven. This weekend, he said hundreds of drivers divided into different groups across the city and were involved in various pop-up takeover events between Friday and Sunday in the early morning hours. They all happened at night and were all in highly-populated areas, he said.

Those who organize [a street takeover] and participate in it have zero regards for public safety, Johnson said.

Maj. Johnson said just this weekend, CMPD gave out 15 citations, made two arrests, towed eight vehicles and held them as evidence, and seized one firearm.

In regards to the incident in Uptown, Johnson said officers dispersed that crowd and investigated a minor hit-and-run involving a light pole. But he said he heard the most about an incident along Sardis Road North, and added the Uptown situation was more minor than some of the others over the weekend.

Johnson discussed some of the challenges officers face with the operation, mentioning that identifying the drivers involved has been difficult because many of them arent the registered owners of the cars. The cars often dont have the correct license plates, he added, which makes them difficult to track down.

He emphasized a desire to work with the Charlotte City Council and state legislature to add teeth to law enforcement resources so that CMPD can enforce harsher consequences for offenders.

MORE PAST COVERAGE:

VIDEO: Drivers caught on camera performing burnouts, stunts near Uptown intersection








The issue of student loan forgiveness remains in focus as millions of borrowers await the Supreme Court's ruling on President Biden's student debt plan and the 2024 presidential election draws nearer.

Here are three top stories to watch in business and politics this week:

Supreme Court takes up Biden's student loan forgiveness plan

The Supreme Court will hear arguments pertaining to the legality of President Biden's student loan forgiveness plan on Tuesday.

Biden's student loan relief plan has brought student debt  particularly for middle-class millennials  to the forefront of the economic and political discussion. According to the White House, 26 million Americans have already applied for student debt forgiveness.

People walk across the plaza of the U.S. Supreme Court building on the first day of the court's new term in Washington, U.S. October 3, 2022. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

The Supreme Court will likely make its decision sometime in the summer if it proceeds with the case. That means that Biden's student debt plan could prove to be a key part of a 2024 presidential campaign. In the 2022 midterms, Democrats outperformed expectations in part because of unpopular Supreme Court decisions and the timing of Biden's student debt forgiveness plan.

If the Supreme Court strikes down the plan, Biden and Democrats would likely move quickly to implement something else, though the White House has stated they are not currently considering alternatives other than the extended payment pause, which is already in effect.

China provides Russia with chips despite sanctions

China has refused to issue sanctions or to assert economic pressure against Russia amid the ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has stood in contrast to the United States, NATO allies, and strategic partners.

And now there appears to be growing evidence that China is not only refusing to go along with international norms but may actually be helping Russia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin pose for a photo prior to their talks in Beijing, China, Feb. 4, 2022. (Alexei Druzhinin, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File)

The Wall Street Journal reported over the weekend that U.S. intelligence indicates that China might be helping Russia to obtain semiconductor chips  in some instances by going through Turkey.

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Now top administration officials are warning China against cozying up to Russia.

From our perspective, actually, this war presents real complications for Beijing, and Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance," Biden National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told CNNs Dana Bash on Sunday. "But if it goes down that road, it will come at real costs to China. And I think Chinas leaders are weighing that as they make their decisions.

Will Biden run in 2024?

The question of whether Biden run for reelection in 2024 could be nearing an inflection point.

This week, New York Times best-selling author Marianne Williamson launched a Democratic presidential campaign. And while her candidacy is a long shot, it would force other potential Democratic candidates to answer whether or not they're considering a run.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris stand on stage at the Democratic National Committee winter meeting, Feb. 3, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)

Centrist Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) has added to the intrigue by openly toying with the prospects of running on a unity ticket.

That could make never-Trump Republicans such as former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-WY) or moderate Republicans such as Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) potential running mates. But so far, nothing concrete has been declared.

There remains a strong contingency of support within the Democratic party for Biden, whose allies reiterate that he beat expectations in the midterms.

One person in Biden's corner? The first lady. Dr. Jill Biden told CNN that when it comes to a reelection campaign, she's "all for it."

Kevin Cirilli is a visiting media fellow at the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub.

Click here for politics news related to business and money

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ChatGPT's role in education has faced intense scrutiny. Leren Lu / Getty Images

Students taking the International Baccalaureate will be allowed to use ChatGPT, per The Times.

The students can quote from the chatbot as long as they don't pass the work off as their own.

Several schools and universities have already moved to ban the use of ChatGPT.

Students taking the International Baccalaureate (IB) will be allowed to use ChatGPT so long as they don't try to pass the work off as their own.

Matt Glanville, head of assessment principles and practice at the IB, a qualification body that's popular in Europe, told The Times of London that students would be allowed to quote AI-generated content. He compared the new technology with "familiar" challenges such as the risk of pupils buying essays from the internet.

Many people have expressed fears over ChatGPT's growing influence in the education sector. One writer who produces assignments for students previously told Insider: "I think ChatGPT has the potential to completely disrupt what I do," Austin said. Taylor added that demand had "dropped considerably."

Per The Times, Glanville said essay writing was being profoundly challenged by new technology and "there's no doubt that it will have much less prominence in the future." Institutions should try and embrace ChatGPT as an "extraordinary opportunity," he added.

Several schools and universities have already moved to ban the use of ChatGPT, citing concerns about plagiarism and misinformation. The New York City Department of Education blocked the chatbot from school networks and other US school districts have taken similar action.

The IB said it would work with schools to help students use AI ethically, per The Times. However, Glanville said trying to pass off AI-generated content as original work was an act of academic misconduct.

He told the Times: "The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet. As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography."

Representatives for the IB referred Insider back to The Times article when approached for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Screenshots of social media videos showing encounters with a snow leopard, gray wolf, and brown bear. Gao et al.

Herders on the Tibetan plateau are prone to seeing gray wolves, snow leopards, brown bears, and other wildlife, with the potential for conflict. Historically, it has been difficult to study these encounters, but the rise of smartphones has given researchers a valuable new tool  videos of wildlife taken by the herders themselves.

For a new study led by the Yale School of the Environment, scientists combed through social media videos of wildlife encounters in the Sanjiangyuan region of the Tibetan plateau. Researchers assembled 207 videos from TikTok and other platforms, including 49 videos of gray wolves, 93 of snow leopards, and 65 of brown bears.

In most of the videos, the humans and wildlife left each other alone. Around a quarter of the videos showed wildlife interfering with humans by attacking livestock or damaging property. Wolves used to run away from humans, but now they would not  herders want to record this behavior, said one local interviewed for the study.

Brown bears were the only species that tried to use human tools, attempting to open doors or break open cans, or getting stuck in the large plastic barrels that herders use to store yak butter. Six videos showed humans aiding wildlife, such as by rescuing an animal from a trap or providing one with water.

Taken together, the videos showed that humans and animals are not living in distinct habitats, but sharing the landscape. Herders believe that large carnivores are increasingly encroaching on villages because they have lost their fear of humans.

The research, published in the journal Conservation Society and Practice, offers a new way to study animal encounters in remote areas. The authors said that social media videos could play a significant role in understanding how humans and wildlife can peacefully coexist.

ALSO ON YALE E360

Habitat on the Edges: Making Room for Wildlife in an Urbanized World
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, left, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak - Steve Reigate/Daily Express Pool

No Brexit deal is ever perfect, the trick is to sell it so both sides can swallow its inevitable, uncomfortable compromises.

Rishi Sunak has to win round the DUP and the European Research Group of Brexiteer backbenchers, who fear he has sold them out over the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Ursula von der Leyen has to convince EU capitals she hasnt sacrificed their red lines to clinch the agreement with a UK that has sorely tested their patience.

Mr Sunak and Mrs von der Leyen will both pin their hopes on constructive ambiguity to allow both of them to claim victory at the same time.

The Prime Minister faces a harder sell than the European Commission President after two years of tussles with Brussels.

Mrs von der Leyens decision to travel to London helps. It spares Mr Sunak the humiliation of becoming the latest British prime minister to go cap in hand to Brussels for a deal.

Boris Johnson said he got Brexit done but the rows over Northern Ireland in the years since over proved it was anything but.

The UK and EU fought over everything from fish to coronavirus vaccines to sausages, trees and parcels.

British threats to tear up the Protocol were met with warnings from Brussels that it could begin a brutal trade war.

Vladimir Putins illegal invasion of Ukraine created the political space to do a Protocol deal.

Endless battles with Brussels over bangers and Jubilee biscuits seemed far less important than a united Western front and Europes security.

Mr Sunak will stress that the new deal is a chance to finally move Britain beyond the turbulent years of Brexit, and focus on the challenges of Russia and the economy.

EU leaders, including, crucially, Emmanuel Macron, are now ready to put Brexit to bed and want Britain playing its part in the response to Russian aggression.

Mrs von der Leyen will take the opportunity to underline the shared values that unite the UK and EU during her visit to build the case for the deal.

Geopolitical and economic arguments may sway most Conservatives. But the new deal falls short of DUP and ERG red lines, including ending the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice and application of EU law in Northern Ireland.

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Meanwhile, the Commission will tell EU capitals its red lines over the European Court of Justice and its refusal to renegotiate the Protocol have held.

Rishi Sunaks decision this week to definitively shelve the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, which gives ministers the power to rip up the treaty, will also be chalked up as a win by Brussels.

The new Brexit deal does not change a comma or full stop of the legal text of the original Protocol.

Instead the deal is a series of agreements, which will sit separately to the unchanged original treaty. Brussels will say the new agreements will ensure the Protocol is implemented as agreed.

The UK will argue that the new deal supersedes the treaty and amounts to legal changes of the Protocol and how it works on the ground.

Some of the new agreements will be given force by decisions in the UK-EU Joint Committee on the Protocol, which are legally binding.

This could also help the DUP, who could claim that the Protocol has been replaced as they demanded.

Mr Sunak will say he has repatriated powers to set state aid, VAT and other taxes in Northern Ireland from Brussels to Westminster, which will be pitched as a major EU concession.

He has also succeeded in removing a large number of Irish Sea border checks on British goods sent to Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister and Mrs von der Leyen are likely to also make much of the foreign investment opportunities for Northern Ireland, which has unique dual access to the UK and EU markets.

Mr Sunak and Mrs von der Leyen will hope todays carefully choreographed sales pitch will win over the DUP and restore devolved government to Northern Ireland.

But they may have to wait until May, after local elections, before the unionists are prepared to back down.
A general view of the Bank of England (BoE) building in London - MAJA SMIEJKOWSKA / REUTERS

The Bank of England has admitted it will be forced to promote the City of London as a post-Brexit financial hub after Rishi Sunak rammed through new competitiveness rules.

Vicky Saporta, executive director at Threadneedle Street, said the Governments decision to make regulators promote international competitiveness, rather than just protect financial and monetary stability, will significantly change how the Banks Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) operates.

She said: Let me be clear. I  and the PRA as a whole  know that this is a very important change This is a big deal. It will make a big difference. We take the new objective seriously. We will make rules differently as a result.

It comes after months of tensions between ministers and the Bank of England over the planned changes, which force regulators to take into account the impact of proposed rules on competition alongside financial stability. Officials at the central bank have publicly criticized the Governments plans to deregulate parts of the City in a bid to boost the Square Mile.

Ms Saporta reiterated the criticism that the PRAs new objective could undermine its primary goal of protecting financial stability.

Her comments came as the PRA announced plans to reduce restrictions on small lenders in an effort to take advantage of post-Brexit freedoms. The regulator is relaxing rules governing how much capital small lenders must hold, as well as regulations on disclosure requirements and pay policies.

Ms Saporta: These are changes we could not have made whilst we were in the EU. They are a down-payment on our commitment to use our new powers to tailor rules and to make the UK a better place to operate a financial firm, without compromising on safety.

The PRA will also hold a conference in September to explore how regulators can boost competitiveness and economic growth.

Simon Morris, a partner at City law firm CMS, said the Bank's announcements studiously avoid the least indication of welcoming [its competitiveness objective].

He added: Making the UK a more attractive place for financial business without lowering standards is a political tightrope  and the PRA finds itself a reluctant safety net.

In further signs of strains between the government and regulators, Andrew Griffith, the City minister, has reportedly attacked the Financial Conduct Authoritys flagship reforms to stop consumers being ripped off by financial services companies. He has said privately that new measures could damage the sector.
Shoppers will find it difficult to buy their fruit and veg over the next few weeks as supermarkets face a shortage. (Getty)

Whats happening? Shoppers are facing limits on the amount of fresh produce they can purchase as shortages leave supermarket shelves bare.

Tesco, Aldi, Asda, Morrisons and now Lidl have introduced rations on certain items, including tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers, as a way of maintaining their stock.

The major supermarkets have blamed "difficult weather conditions" in Spain and Morocco for the supply issues following heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and snow storms in the region.

National Farmers' Union (NFU) head Minette Batters has claimed the reason for the shortages is more complex, and includes rising energy costs.

Disappointed customers have accused retailers of an "unacceptable" lack of planning after finding shelves missing products.

Where are the biggest supermarket shortages?

Pictures from supermarkets across the country, from Devon up to Edinburgh, showed empty shelves on fruit and vegetable aisles.

All retailers are experiencing difficulties sourcing products grown in southern Spain and north Africa, but Tesco, Aldi, Asda, Morrisons and Lidl have introduced rations.

Read more: Asda and Morrisons ration some fresh produce including tomatoes and peppers (Yahoo UK, 3min read)

A customer shops for vegetables in the fruit and vegetable section of a Sainsbury's supermarket. (Getty)

Which foods are supermarkets having shortages of?

Shoppers are finding it difficult to pick up a variety of fruit and vegetables.

The problem started with tomatoes but has since widened to peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, salad bags, broccoli, cauliflower and raspberries.

Read more: Farmers blame UK tomato shortage on bad weather and energy bills (iNews)

Are supermarkets rationing foods?

Tesco has introduced a temporary buying limit of three items per customer on tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers.

While Morrisons has set a limit of two items per customer across tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and peppers.

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Aldi has placed limits on peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes.

But Asda has the most restrictions, with a customer limit of three on tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, salad bags, broccoli, cauliflower and raspberries.

Lidl shoppers will only be able to buy three tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers each.

A Lidl spokesperson said: "As advised to our customers through signage in our stores last week, adverse weather conditions in Spain and Morocco have recently impacted the availability of certain salad items across the supermarket sector.

"Whilst we still have good availability across the majority of our stores, due to a recent increase in demand we have taken the decision to temporarily limit the purchase of peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers to three items per person.

"This will help to ensure that all of our customers have access to the products they need."

Other supermarkets are understood to be considering similar temporary measures.

Read more: Supermarket places limit on number of tomatoes customers can buy amid shortage (The National 2 min read)

Is Brexit the reason for food shortages? Is it the energy crisis? The weather?

The UK has relied more on products grown in Morocco following Brexit, so the country is vulnerable to any issues in this region.

Production problems in Morocco began in January with unusually cold night-time temperatures that affected tomato ripening.

These were compounded by ferry cancellations due to bad weather, hitting lorry deliveries.

Rising energy costs have also been cited as a reason for the food shortage. According to reports, tomato growers in the UK are struggling to heat their greenhouses due to lack of money.

Former Sainsbury's CEO Justin King told LBC that UK greenhouses producing peppers, cucumbers and tomatoes had been "hurt horribly by Brexit".

NFU chief Batters warned farmers faced rising energy costs and could be forced to scale back production.

Shortages could last for the rest of the year. (Getty Images)

When will supermarket food shortages end?

The shortages should ease over the coming weeks as UK producers begin to move into their growing season.

This is expected to ease the longer-term situation as retailers also look to alternatives to produce from Spain and northern Africa.

But British Growers Association chief Jack Ward thinks the UK could face shortages all year due to farmers declining to plant vegetables because they do not see a return.

Phil Pearson, group development director at APS Produce, has warned the tomato shortage could last until May.

Farmers booed environment secretary Therese Coffey after she said we cant control the weather in Spain in response to the crisis.

More reporting on food shortages

Supermarket shortages: Fruit and veg industry 'hurt horribly by Brexit', supermarket boss warns (Yahoo UK)

Supermarket rationing could last for weeks, retail experts warn (Independent)

Supermarket rationing  latest: UK stores launch limits on food after shelves lay empty (Independent)

Food shortages in the UK  whats missing from shelves and why? (Evening Standard)

Supermarkets begin rationing fruit and vegetables - live updates (Telegraph)
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Supreme Court said Monday it will take up a Republican-led challenge to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a case that could threaten how the consumer watchdog agency functions. It is the second time in three years that the justices will be examining the federal agency, which was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis.

The case will not be heard before October. That's when the court begins its next term.

Late last year, a federal appeals court  the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit  ruled that the agencys funding structure is unconstitutional, threatening its ability to function. The Biden administration asked the high court to review that decision, which it has now agreed to do.

The administration said the lower courts ruling calls into question virtually every action the CFPB has taken since its creation. The decision threatens to inflict immense legal and practical harms on the CFPB, consumers, and the nations financial sector, the administration said.

Since the bureau was created more than a decade ago by the Dodd-Frank Act, it has varied in its aggressiveness. During the Obama administration, it used its muscle to collect fines from banks and credit card companies; during the Trump administration, it drastically scaled back enforcement actions. Republicans have argued that the agency has unchecked power.

The case the justices agreed to hear centers on the agency's funding. Unlike a majority of agencies, the CFPB does not get its funding from the annual budget process in Congress. Instead, it is funded directly by the Federal Reserve. The agencys budget is capped at 12% of the total operating expenses of the Federal Reserve System. In the 2022 fiscal year, the agency received about $640 million.

The case the justices will hear began when two associations sued over the agency's Payday Lending Rule. They argued in part that the agency's funding structure violated the Constitution, improperly insulating the agency from congressional supervision. A trial court ruled against the associations, but the appeals court agreed the funding structure was unconstitutional. Other courts that had previously looked at the agency's funding structure found no issue.

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In urging the justices to take the case, a group of 16 mostly Republican-led states called the CFPB a failed experiment in administrative governance.

Just three years ago, in 2020, the high court dealt with a different challenge to the agency. That case involved the agency's structure. The justices ultimately ruled that Congress had improperly insulated the head of the bureau from removal. The justices said the agency could continue to operate but that its director had to be removable by the president at will.

The CFPB was the brainchild of Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and former Democratic presidential candidate.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday began hearing arguments in two cases challenging President Joe Biden's $400 billion student loan forgiveness program.

Critics of the Biden administration's plan to cancel federal student loan debt for more than 40 million Americans say it's expensive, unfair and an abuse of executive power.

As supporters of the program protested outside, Chief Justice John Roberts and other conservative justices zeroed in on the issue of executive authority and separation of powers, questioning whether Congress needed to sign off on such broad relief.

"Congress shouldn't have been surprised when half a trillion dollars is wiped off the books?" Roberts asked Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, arguing for the Biden administration.

"We take very seriously the idea of separation of powers and that power should be divided to prevent its abuse," Roberts added, making a comparison to the Supreme Court's decision to block former President Donald Trump's unilateral attempt to dismantle the DACA program for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children.

Prelogar, in turn, argued that the education secretary has the authority to provide relief under the HEROES Act, a 2003 law aimed at ensuring federal student loan borrowers would not be economically devastated during a national emergency, in this case, the COVID pandemic.

"Well, of course, we think Congress did address this expressly here," Prelogar said. "And Congress directed that in the context of a national emergency -- that is the limitation of the HEROES Act -- so the secretary can't invoke this whenever he wants, there has to be that predicate: war or military operation or national emergency."

PHOTO: Activists and students show their support in front of the Supreme Court for student debt cancellation in Washington on Feb. 28, 2023. (Andrew Caballero-reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)

The group of six GOP-led states on Tuesday challenging the program before the Supreme Court, were questioned by liberal justices to answer the critical question of how, exactly, they are harmed.

"You can't just go to the court and say I don't like this, or I think this might be a problem," said David Nahmias, a staff attorney with the Berkeley Center for Consumer Law and Economic Justice. "In order to sue, you have to show that you are going to be threatened with a certain impending injury."

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PHOTO: Students on the University of Missouri campus. (ABC News)

The states have alleged a future financial injury from lost revenue on student-loan discharges; fewer loans on the books, they say, would mean fewer taxes to collect.

The state of Missouri argues that it would be uniquely harmed by the impact of large-scale debt cancellation on Missouri's Higher Education Loan Authority, or MOHELA, which is the nation's largest loan servicer.

Nebraska Solicitor James Campbell, arguing on behalf of the states, said Tuesday that the plan would cut MOHELA's operating revenue significantly.

The Biden administration says the states' claims are highly speculative and indirect, undermining their legal standing to bring the case in the first place.

"MOHELA isn't here," said Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. "It has the ability to sue and be sued; it has been set up as a separate entity. Usually we don't allow one person to step into another's shoes and say, 'I think this person suffered harm' even if that harm is very great."

Justice Amy Coney Barrett also pressed Campbell on MOEHLA's absence, asking, "Do you want to address why MOHELA's not here?"

Campbell responded that MOHELA "MOHELA isn't here because the state is asserting its interests. MOHELA doesn't need to be here because the state has the authority to speak for them."

"If MOHELA is really an arm of the state ... why didn't you just strong-arm MOHELA and say, 'You have to pursue this suit?'" Barrett asked.

PHOTO: Light illuminates part of the Supreme Court building on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Nov. 16, 2022. (Patrick Semansky/AP)

"The basic threshold issue is, is Missouri, is Nebraska  are these states injured today?" said South Texas College of Law professor Josh Blackman.

Lower courts and legal scholars from across the ideological spectrum have divided on the question of injury, setting the stage for the justices to have the final say on whether the Biden debt relief plan inflicts clear harm on state governments.

"The answer is tricky because in recent years the states have been given latitude," said Blackman. "This might be a case of the court scaling back on that broad authority, although I'm not sure."

PHOTO: Josh Blackman, a professor at the South Texas College of Law. (ABC News)

The U.S. Education Department last year, citing a need to protect borrowers from excessive economic hardship during the pandemic, invoked emergency powers to waive repayment terms for some federal student loans. The agency offered to absolve as much as $20,000 of federal debt for more than 40 million eligible borrowers.

The move drew an immediate legal challenge from Republican attorneys general in six states -- Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina -- who saw it as a costly bailout to college students at the expense of other American taxpayers.

"Joe Biden had no legal authority whatsoever. I think the larger issue is it's unfair to people who paid off their loans. It's unfair to people who didn't take out loans," Sen. Eric Schmitt, Missouri's Republican former attorney general who first brought the case, told ABC News in an interview.

PHOTO: Sen. Eric Schmitt, right, talks with ABC's Devin Dwyer. (ABC News)

"It's adding to our debt," Schmitt added. "I think the reason why this case is before the Supreme Court and why Missouri and the other states are ultimately going to win is because Missouri has a loan servicing organization called MOHELA that derives revenue from interest."

MOHELA, a state-created company which manages more than 5 million federal student loan accounts totaling $148 billion, is at the heart of Missouri's case and what the federal appeals court singled out as a lynchpin in their decision.

MORE: What to know if you've applied for student loan forgiveness

The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals based in St. Louis, which put the Biden debt relief plan on hold last year, cited "threatened financial harm" to Missouri explicitly because of its ties to MOHELA.

PHOTO: Missouri's Higher Education Loan Authority, or MOHELA, is the nation's largest servicer of federal student loans with 5 million accounts totaling more than $148 billion. (ABC News)

MOHELA has contributed $6 million to state student aid programs in the current fiscal year, a spokeswoman for the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development told ABC.

State law also requires MOHELA to pay $350 million to help fund improvements to state colleges and universities.

"The court has identified it as a public entity that administers student loans. It provides college assistance programs for people across the state of Missouri and so the state has an interest in it," MIssouri's new attorney general Andrew Bailey told ABC in an interview.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks about the student debt relief portal beta test in the South Court Auditorium on the White House complex in Washington, D.C., Oct. 17, 2022. (Susan Walsh/AP)

But liberal and conservative legal scholars say financial fallout from a MOHELA-Missouri link is too weak and speculative to justify the states' Supreme Court case.

"The relationship between Missouri and MOHELA, as our research has shown, in the law that created MOHELA, is such that harm just cannot, cannot happen," said Nahmias, who filed an amicus brief in the case on behalf of Missouri consumer advocates.

"MOHELA is completely separate and distinct from the state of Missouri. Its operations are distinct from Missouri. Its treasury and finances are completely walled off from the Missouri treasury," he said.

MOHELA, which did not respond to our repeated requests for comment or an interview, is notably not challenging the Biden loan forgiveness plan.

PHOTO: Rep. Cori Bush, left, talks to ABC's Devin Dwyer, right. (ABC News)

Missouri Rep. Cori Bush says the company is being used as a pawn and that allegations fewer MOHELA-serviced loans would financially harm her state is exaggerated.

"The money that [MOHELA is] supposed to be paying to the state  again, they owe over, what, about $105 million  they have not kept that up," Bush said in an interview. "So to say that you have borrowers who need to pay what they owe. Well, MOHELA does not pay what they owe."

MOHELA financial records reviewed by ABC News confirm the loan servicer has not made a payment to the state fund for higher education capital improvements since 2008 and may not make any future payments  even if the Biden debt relief plan is struck down.

PHOTO: David Nahmias, a staff attorney at the Berkeley Center for Consumer Law and Economic Justice, is defending the Biden administration's student debt relief plan on behalf of Missouri consumer advocates. (ABC News)

"The states have shown no link between debt cancellation and the effect of debt cancellation on MOHELA's effect to even pay into the fund, even if they wanted to," said Nahmias.

Asked about MOHELA's lack of contributions, Attorney General Bailey said it's "an issue that the [Supreme] Court is going to have to sort out."

"The Fifth Circuit [U.S. Court of Appeals] sided with us on this issue, and so we're optimistic about our chances at the U.S. Supreme Court," he said.

Some top conservative legal scholars, however, have warned the justices in court filings that  while they don't like the debt cancellation plan  allowing Missouri to challenge it could set a dangerous precedent.

"If these states are granted standing here, it could lead to far broader ability of the states to haul the federal government into court," Blackman said.

PHOTO: Anna Bain, a sophomore at the University of Missouri, is one of nearly half a million Missourians who has applied for federal student debt forgiveness. (ABC News)

It's a high-stakes decision that many say will turn on whether the justices believe debt relief for millions of Americans hurts MOHELA, which in turn hurts Missouri.

"The court may very well say, look, no money's been paid out [by MOHELA] in a very long time. This is too speculative of an injury," Blackman said. "Or, the court could say the chance that even $1 might be paid at some point in the future might be enough" to establish harm.

MORE: How to have student loans forgiven if you don't qualify for Biden's forgiveness program

Meantime, many of nearly half a million Missourians with federal student loans who applied for relief under the Biden plan are watching the case with anticipation.

"I spend a lot of time worrying about how I'm going to pay that money back," said Anna Bain, a sophomore journalism major at the University of Missouri-Columbia, holding $12,000 in student debt.

"The soaring costs of higher education these days is so insane and so unacceptable for so many people," Bain said. "I think that everyone has a right to say how their taxes are being spent. But I feel like taxes are for the greater good and this is for the greater good."

Conservative justices question Biden's student loan plan in crucial SCOTUS case originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Ever since the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau was created in the wake of the financial crisis of 2008, Republicans and corporate lobbyists have sought to destroy it. Now the Supreme Court will take up a case that could do just that.

The case of CFPB v. Community Financial Services Association, et al., comes out of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, where a three-judge panel of far-right Trump-appointed judges ruled in October that the regulators funding mechanism is unconstitutional and the agency, and its regulations, should therefore be entirely voided. The Supreme Court took up an appeal by the Biden administration on Monday to judge whether to overrule this extreme decision.

First proposed by consumer financial law expert Elizabeth Warren in the summer of 2007, before she became a U.S. senator, the CFPB became a reality after Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers went belly up and the global financial system ground to a halt. Included in the Dodd-Frank financial reform law passed in 2010, the agency was specifically protected from meddling by Republicans opposed to its creation by being housed in the Federal Reserve, where it receives funding in perpetuity. The agency has since instituted new regulations cracking down on practices, scams and fees of payday lenders, banks, mortgage lenders and insurers, among others.

In 2017, the agency issued a new rule to crack down on a common abuse by payday lenders to add fees to consumer accounts by repeatedly trying to overdraw their accounts when they have insufficient funds. The CFPB rule limited the number of attempted withdrawals by lenders to two. Those lenders then hired the law firm Jones Day, which helped staff the Trump administration with lawyers, and sued to challenge the CFPBs existence.

This was the second lawsuit brought by Jones Day lawyers seeking to invalidate the entire agency. In 2020, the Supreme Court issued a 5-4 decision in Seila Law v. CFPB that found the rule preventing the president from firing the CFPBs director for anything but cause unconstitutional. While the courts five conservatives sided against the agency, they also rejected the preferred outcome of those challenging the agency: its abolition.

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Now, a court with six conservatives will hear arguments again about whether to eliminate the agency entirely.

The 5th Circuit is the lone court to reach the conclusion that the agency must be abolished because of its funding mechanism. At least seven other courts have ruled otherwise, according to Slates Mark Joseph Stern. The 5th Circuit ruled that the agency is unconstitutional because it is funded outside the normal annual appropriations process and is therefore not accountable to Congress.

But the CFPB is not the only agency funded outside the normal appropriations process. The Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, Social Security and Medicare are all funded independently of the congressional appropriations process. In fact, the Supreme Court has previously ruled that program funding need not come from an annual appropriations bill for it to meet muster under the Constitutions appropriations clause.

If the court were to side with the 5th Circuits outlandish argument and overturn its existing precedent, it could imperil important parts of the federal government. Yet again, the conservative Supreme Court will have to determine how far it wants to go along with the Trumpiest court in the nation. At least two conservative justices would need to disagree to void the 5th Circuits decision.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), shown in 2019, was among the champions of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at its creation. (Dania Maxwell / Los Angeles Times)

The Supreme Court agreed Monday to decide on the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, created in the wake of the 2008 Wall Street collapse and funded directly by the Federal Reserve.

The case poses a threat to an array of independent agencies, including potentially the Federal Reserve.

The court's conservatives have been skeptical of the notion that agencies can operate outside the direct control of the president and Congress. But it is not clear how far they will go to rein in these agencies, all of which were created by Congress.

The Biden administration moved quickly to challenge a ruling by the 5th Circuit Court in New Orleans that held the CFPB has been operating illegally because it is "no longer accountable to Congress" for its annual budget.

If the high court's conservative majority agrees, it could cast doubt on the Federal Reserve as well because the Fed relies on bank fees and interest income for its operating expenses, not an annual appropriation from Congress.

In her appeal on behalf of CFPB, Solicitor General Elizabeth G. Prelogar called the lower court's decision novel and wrong.

It "marks the first time in our nations history that any court has held that Congress violated the appropriations clause by enacting a law authorizing spending," she said.

She had asked the court to decide the case by June, but the justices voted to hear arguments in the fall.

The case involves both a high-level dispute over the Constitution's separation of powers and a practical and political divide over the agency.

The CFPB was championed by Democrats, including now-Sen. Elizabeth Warren, to protect consumers and borrowers from deceptive and unfair practices by banks and mortgage lenders. It has been steadily opposed by much of the lending industry and many Republicans.

The current dispute began as a challenge to a proposed regulation of payday lenders. In ruling for the lenders, the three judges of the 5th Circuit, all appointees of President Trump, said it violated the Constitution to shield the bureau from an annual fight over its appropriation.

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Judge Cory Wilson said the "bureau's perpetual insulation from Congress appropriations power, including the express exemption from congressional review of its funding, renders it ... no longer accountable to Congress and, ultimately, to the people."

The 5th Circuit ruling, however, did not immediately affect the bureau's funding or operations as the parties continue their legal fight.

The Democrats who wrote the Dodd-Frank Act in 2010 tried to protect the bureau from political interference from the White House or Congress. The director was given a semi-independent status, and the bureau was authorized to obtain up to 12% of the annual revenues of the Federal Reserve for its operating expenses.

Last year, the bureau used $641 million of the $734 million that was available to it.

The Supreme Court's conservatives have cast a skeptical eye on the bureau. Three years ago, the justices in a 5-4 decision rejected the independent status of the director and ruled that person could be removed by the president for any reason, including political differences.

The majority in the case of Seila Law vs. CFPB consisted of the five Republican appointees while four Democratic appointees dissented.

The court, now with six Republican appointees, will consider the funding issue in the case of CFPB vs. Community Financial Services Assn. of America.

State attorneys for West Virginia and 16 other Republican-led states urged the court to rule against the CFPB, calling it a "toxic blend of broad power and unchecked autonomy." They said states play a lead role in protecting consumers, and the CFPB has proved a "failed experiment."

California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta and his counterparts from 20 Democratic-led states said the court should remove the cloud that hangs over the bureau.

"The CFPB plays a critical role in advancing consumer protections and regulating the financial services industry, he said. "The misguided 5th Circuit Court decision, if allowed to stand, threatens to upend over a decade of important enforcement and regulatory work and throw the consumer financial markets into turmoil."

A high court ruling affirming the 5th Circuit could have a "radical and catastrophic impact," said Lauren Saunders, a director of the National Consumer Law Center, and "cause chaos in the marketplace" if 11 years' worth of lending regulations were invalidated.

In her appeal, Prelogar argued that throughout American history, Congress has set up agencies that were funded by fees and rates, not an annual appropriation. She cited early examples of the Post Office, the Patent Office and the U.S. Mint.

In the 20th century, Congress adopted a similar approach for funding the Federal Reserve, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the National Credit Union Administration.

Prelogar also noted that a large part of the federal budget consists of mandatory spending for authorized programs like Social Security and Medicare which do not depend an annual appropriation. In fiscal year 2021, she said Congress authorized $4.8 trillion in such mandatory spending out of approximately $7 trillion in total spending.

In creating the CFPB, she said Congress did what the Constitution requires by authorizing the bureau to spend funds collected by the Federal Reserve.

"Courts have no license to depart from the text and history of the constitutional provisions adopted by the founders in pursuit of their own views about the proper structure and funding of administrative agencies," she said.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Supreme Court will review the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus (CFPB) funding mechanism.

Lower courts have split on the issue of whether the CFPBs funding through annual transfers by the Federal Reserve violates the Constitutions Appropriations Clause, which establishes Congresss power of the purse.

In a brief, unsigned order on Monday, the court announced it will take up the case, indicating at least four justices agreed to do so.

The CFPB was created after the 2008 financial crisis to enforce consumer financial laws, and a coalition of 16 Republican attorneys general want the justices to affirm a lower court decision deeming the funding scheme from the Federal Reserve unconstitutional.

The Biden administration says that lower court decision calls into question virtually every action the CFPB has taken since it was created.

The administration is backed by Democratic attorneys general in 21 states and Washington, D.C., who want to reverse the ruling and deem the CFPBs funding a valid use of Congresss appropriations power.

The CFPBs critical work administering and enforcing consumer financial protection laws will be frustrated, the Biden administration wrote in its brief. And because the decision below vacates a past agency action based on the purported Appropriations Clause violation, the decision threatens the validity of all past CFPB actions as well.

Two associations of companies regulated by the CFPBs payday lending rule, which limits the amount of times and ways a payday lender can attempt to collect on a loan, sued over the rule in 2018 on multiple grounds.

A three-judge panel on the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last October vacated the rule, because it deemed the agencys funding mechanism unconstitutional and found a nexus between it and the payday lending rule.

For the most part, the Plaintiffs claims miss their mark, the court ruled. But one arrow has found its target: Congresss decision to abdicate its appropriations power under the Constitution, i.e., to cede its power of the purse to the Bureau, violates the Constitutions structural separation of powers.

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That decision disagreed with a separate case from the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals and multiple federal trial courts.

Splits between circuit courts are a top reason the Supreme Court agrees to take up cases, and its review of the CFPB decision will bring renewed attention to the future of the agency, which Republicans have targeted.

The Supreme Courts actions today support what the industry has been saying for months, that there is confusion in the marketplace that must be addressed, Leah Dempsey, lobbyist for ACA International, a trade group that represents debt collectors, said in a statement.

This baseless lawsuit is the crown jewel in a long-running, highly organized effort by greedy industries and right-wing politicians in their pocket to take out the CFPB because it works so well to protect consumers from abuse, Liz Zelnick, director of economic security and corporate power at watchdog group Accountable.US, said in a statement.

Updated at 10:51 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Florida governor Ron DeSantis derides the swamp in Washington, D.C., and takes shots at the GOP establishment in his new book, The Courage to Be Free: Floridas Blueprint for Americas Revival.

DeSantis writes of deciding to make his third term in Congress his last: I was especially frustrated with all the missed opportunities of the Republican Congress after Donald Trump became president. National Review obtained a copy of the book ahead of its February 28 release.

Here we had a unified Republican government for the first time in more than a decade, and yet so much of the time was frittered away on matters like the conspiracy theory that Donald Trumps campaign had colluded with Russia, which GOP-led committees investigated for two years, he adds. Why Congress didnt do more significant things, such as appropriating money to build the wall at the US-Mexico border, was beyond me.

The governor also writes that the GOP leaderships unwillingness to conduct effective oversight was a theme that recurred throughout my time in Congress and beyond. He cites the scandal over the IRSs aggressive scrutiny of conservative groups and the ensuing lack of consequences as evidence that the swamp protects its own.

That Congress has abdicated its oversight responsibility and does not aggressively use the power of the purse to discipline the bureaucracy is one of the main reasons why the administrative Leviathan of the federal government has become effectively immune to accountability  and more willing to abuse its enormous authority, he says. DeSantis goes on to call term-limits for members a no-brainer.

He writes in the books of steps he took to avoid joining the professional ruling class, including sleeping in his office when the House was in session instead of renting an apartment on Capitol Hill and declining the congressional pension and health care plan. He also stopped trading stocks prior to assuming office: I did not want to be a position where a vote or other action I took could be questioned based on what stocks I owned.

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DeSantis criticizes GOP leadership as out-of-touch with the average American voter.

Ingrained in Beltway thinking is a contempt for average voters, particularly voters who reject leftist ideology, he writes. This helps fuel a conventional wisdom that is almost always wrong  and which is untethered from what is really happening throughout the country.

Assuming Democrats would retake control of the House in 2018, DeSantis made the decision to run for Florida governor, an opportunity that he said would provide opportunities to enact significant reforms.

For Republicans, most of our partys biggest successes in recent years have been achieved by governors, not by members of Congress, he notes.

DeSantis later calls the 2018 governors race the most consequential election in the history of our state.

Had I not been successful in that election, the entire trajectory of our state would have been much different, especially once the COVID-19 pandemic hit and governors around the country used it as a license to wield unimaginable powers and, at the direction of Dr. Anthony Fauci, impose draconian restrictions on their states, he writes.

DeSantis briefly touches on Trumps role in the 2018 Florida gubernatorial race, explaining that he knew an endorsement from the then-president would enhance my name recognition.

I knew that a Trump endorsement would provide me with the exposure to GOP primary voters across the State of Florida, and I was confident that many would see me as a good candidate once they learned about my record, he writes, adding that he had developed a good relationship with the president largely because I supported his initiatives in Congress and opposed the Russia collusion conspiracy theory.

In November, Trump infamously took credit for DeSantiss 2018 victory and nicknamed the Florida governor Ron DeSanctimonious. Trump claimed at the time that his endorsement of DeSantis in 2017 served as a nuclear weapon going off, propelling DeSantis to the top of the GOP primary for Florida governor.

Ron came to me in desperate shape in 2017  he was politically dead, losing in a landslide to a very good Agriculture Commissioner, Adam Putnam, who was loaded up with cash and great poll numbers. Ron had low approval, bad polls, and no money, but he said that if I would Endorse him, he could win, Trump said.

He said he later boosted DeSantis past Andrew Gillum, then the star of the Democratic Party. Trump said he fixed DeSantiss campaign, which had completely fallen apart, by holding two massive Rallies.

He went on to falsely claim he stopped DeSantiss election from being stolen.

Trump and DeSantis are widely considered top contenders in the 2024 Republican presidential primary, though DeSantis has not officially said whether he plans to run.

More from National Review
Fox News media columnist Howard Kurtz revealed Sunday that the network is not allowing him to cover a defamation lawsuit against Fox filed by Dominion Voting Systems.

The countrys most-watched cable news network is facing considerable jeopardy from the suit, with Dominion asking for $1.6 billion in damages. Fox is accused of knowingly broadcasting false information about Dominion machines in order to promote claims that the 2020 election was stolen from former president Trump.

Kurtz is well-known for his media coverage, having worked for The Washington Post and CNN before joining Fox in 2013. He publicly protested the networks decision to keep him from discussing the case.

Some of you have been asking why Im not covering the Dominion voting machines case against Fox involving the unproven claims of election fraud in 2020, said Kurtz. Its absolutely a fair question. I believe I should be covering it, its a major media story, given my role here at Fox.

The company has decided that as part of the organization being sued, I cant talk about it or write about it, at least for now, explained Kurtz. I strongly disagree with that decision. But as an employee, I have to abide by it.

A legal filing from Dominion last week revealed prominent hosts like Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, and Laura Ingraham, as well as others at Fox, repeatedly insulting and mocking Trump advisors, including Sidney Powell and Rudolph W. Giuliani. The filing asserted that not a single Fox witness had testified that he or she believed any of the allegations about Dominion.

Fox Corporation chairman Rupert Murdoch also expressed doubt about Trumps statements that the election had been stolen, calling the voter-fraud claims really crazy stuff.

The filing paints a picture of a network afraid to lose viewers after stunning the Trump campaign by being the first to declare Arizona for Biden.

After one Fox reporter, Jacqui Heinrich, fact-checked a tweet from Trump and asserted there was no evidence of voter fraud, Carlson, who consistently gets some of the networks highest ratings, demanded that Heinrich be fired.

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Please get her fired, said Carlson. It needs to stop immediately, like tonight. Its measurably hurting the company. The stock price is down. Not a joke.

In its own filing, Fox declared it had covered the voter fraud claims fairly.

In its coverage, Fox News fulfilled its commitment to inform fully and comment fairly, the filing read. Some hosts viewed the presidents claims skeptically; others viewed them hopefully; all recognized them as profoundly newsworthy.

A statement from a Fox News spokeswoman last week hit back against Dominions accusations.

Dominion has mischaracterized the record, cherry-picked quotes stripped of key context and spilled considerable ink on facts that are irrelevant under black-letter principles of defamation law, the statement read.

In a similar case in 2020, Fox reached a private settlement with the parents of a slain Democratic National Committee staffer. The family of Seth Rich had sued Fox for spreading damaging rumors relating to his death.

In May 2017, the network published an online article that suggested Rich was killed in retaliation for leaking damaging DNC emails to WikiLeaks in the lead-up to the 2016 presidential election. Hannity repeatedly promoted the false theory on his program.

The terms of the settlement were not disclosed.

According to its latest quarterly earnings report, as reported by The New York Times, Fox Corporation has about $4 billion cash on hand.

More from National Review
BEIJING/TAIPEI (Reuters) -China accused the United States of "endangering" peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait after a U.S. military plane flew through the sensitive waterway on Monday, with the U.S. Navy responding that it had been in international airspace.

Beijing has been incensed by U.S. military missions through the narrow strait, most frequently of warships but occasionally of aircraft, saying China "has sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction" over the waterway. Taiwan and the United States dispute that saying it is an international waterway.

The Eastern Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army said its forces closely monitored the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance plane, which is also used for anti-submarine missions, as it flew through the strait which separates China from Taiwan.

"The U.S. side's actions deliberately interfered with and disrupted the regional situation and endangered peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We firmly oppose this," it said in a short statement.

"Theatre forces remain on high alert at all times and resolutely defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet said the aircraft had flown in international airspace and that the United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate anywhere international law allows including within the Taiwan Strait.

"By operating within the Taiwan Strait in accordance with international law, the United States upholds the navigational rights and freedoms of all nations. The aircraft's transit of the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific," it added in a statement.

Taiwan's defence ministry said the aircraft had flown in a southerly direction through the strait.

Taiwan's forces tracked the aircraft as if flew through the strait, the ministry said, noting the situation was "as normal". It did not elaborate.

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China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activity near the island in the past three years as it seeks to try to force Taiwan to accept Beijing's sovereignty.

Taiwan's government says only the island's people can decide their future and it will not give in to threats.

Washington is Taiwan's most important international backer and seller of arms despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, and U.S. support for the island is a constant irritant in Sino-U.S. relations.

(Reporting by Beijing newsroom and Ben Blanchard; editing by John Stonestreet and Nick Macfie)
BUCHAREST (Reuters) - A Romanian court on Monday upheld the detention of divisive internet personality Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan, rejecting an appeal from their lawyers.

The brothers have been in police custody since Dec. 29 as prosecutors investigate them and two Romanian women for suspected human trafficking, rape and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women. They have denied the accusations.

The Tate brothers, who have dual U.S. and British nationality, have had their detention extended until the end of March. Prosecutors can ask Romanian courts to extend suspects' detention for up to 180 days.

A court on Feb. 21 ruled the two female suspects, Georgiana Naghel and Luana Radu, should be placed under house arrest when their current arrest warrant expires on Monday.

The brothers' lawyers had argued against their continued detention, saying prosecutors had not given new evidence or brought new charges.

Judges have previously said the brothers posed a flight risk and their release could jeopardise the investigation.

Andrew Tate, a former professional kickboxer from Luton in southern England, has millions of followers online where he promotes a luxury lifestyle from wealth he says he earned from investments including a pornographic webcam business.

He gained mainstream notoriety for misogynistic remarks that got him banned from all major social media platforms, although Twitter reinstated his account after Elon Musk bought the company last year.

(Reporting by Ostav Ganea; Writing by Jason Hovet; Editing by Mark Potter)
Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz has been mocked for saying that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was engaged in political theatre because he wore a sweatshirt and fatigues during President Joe Bidens visit to Kyiv.

The Recount noted that during a 2021 visit to the US-Mexico border in Mission, Texas, Mr Cruz himself chose to forego the usual suit and tie.

Mr Cruz was speaking on his podcast Verdict with Ted Cruz when he argued that Mr Bidens entire visit to Ukraine on 20 February was a stunt and he claimed that the air sirens heard during Mr Bidens appearance were fake.

Speaking of video footage showing Mr Biden and Mr Zelensky walking in Kyiv, Mr Cruz said, the video should have ended with Im Joe Biden and I approve this message because it was a TV ad.

Zelensky is engaged in theatre as well. Look, Zelensky, before he was president, he was an actor. He was a professional actor on a popular sitcom in Ukraine. And now, hes president, he added. He understands acting, and so its a little jarring seeing all of these images of him in a sweatshirt and fatigues next to Biden in his pressed suit. Whether in the Oval Office or in Ukraine, Zelensky is always in this outfit, and it is a costume. And he understands what hes doing. It is performance.

Were old enough to remember Ted Cruz showing up to the southern border dressed like this. pic.twitter.com/FH0zR7xuNY https://t.co/riM4k6zy5o  The Recount (@therecount) February 27, 2023

In this handout photo issued by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, U.S. President Joe Biden meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska (Ukrainian Presidential Press Off)

In 2021, the San Antonio Express-News reported that Mr Cruz voted in the Senate in his gym attire.

If there was an expert on costumed theatrics it would be Ted Cruz, one Twitter user said.

Other than some photographs in their outdoor-man costumes, what did they accomplish? another asked about the Senate trip to the border.

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Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) (C) stands with other Senators after taking a tour of part of the Rio Grande river on a Texas Department of Public Safety boat on March 26, 2021 in Mission, Texas (Getty Images)

Do you think their stylists pick out their clothes for the big photo shoot? a third said.

They seem to have very short memories and forget the internet is out there, one account holder said.

So many to choose from but Texas Castro is my favorite Ted Cruz Cosplay! another Twitter user added.

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) speaks to the media after a tour of part of the Rio Grande river on a Texas Department of Public Safety boat on March 26, 2021 in Mission, Texas (Getty Images)

Ted throwing stones in a glass theatre? Isnt Ted the one who fried bacon on his gun??? one Twitter user said.

Mr Cruz was heavily criticized for flying to Mexico as Texas was struck by a winter storm in 2021. He quickly returned a called the trip a mistake, according to The Texas Tribune.

Ted Cruz goes to the border cosplaying as Che and is ferried around with other Republicans in a gunboat. But sure, tell more about costumes, journalist Aaron Rupar wrote.

Unlike @tedcruz, President Zelenskyy didnt flee to Cancun at the first sign of hardship, the Lincoln Project added.

Zelensky stood up to Putin, roaming gangs of assassins, cruise missiles and showed the world courage and dignity. Donald Trump accused @tedcruz father of murdering JFK & called his wife ugly. Cruz thanked him, conservative political strategist Stuart Stevens said.
Rep. Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.) has acknowledged he previously misstated his college degree, noting that he received a degree in liberal studies and not international relations, as questions swirl regarding his background.

Ogles, a first-term congressman, said he learned of the mistake after requesting an official copy of his transcript to verify his degree.

I previously stated that my degree from MTSU was in International Relations. When I pulled my transcript to verify, I realized I was mistaken. My degree is in Liberal Studies. I apologize for my misstatement, Ogles wrote in a statement on Sunday, referring to Middle Tennessee State University.

The correction comes as Ogles faces skepticism about his resume. Earlier this month, Tennessee station WTVF published an extensive report detailing exaggerations from the GOP lawmakers personal story, zeroing in on claims that he is an economist and a human trafficking expert, among others.

The WTVF report also explored Ogless education. According to the outlet, a 2019 resume said Ogles received a degree in international relations from Middle Tennessee State University, in addition to minors in psychology and English. Those degrees are also listed on a background check form included in WTVFs report. And, in a previous version of his congressional bio flagged by the outlet, Ogles said he studied policy and economics at the university.

In his statement on Sunday, Ogles said he transferred to Middle Tennessee State University in his senior year of college to study political science and international relations. But he later dropped out because of an interfamilial matter and returned home to financially support my family during a difficult time.

He said he returned to finish his final semester at the university in the mid-2000s as a nontraditional student, and after completing online courses, he received a bachelor of science degree.

At the time, it was my understanding I had completed my course of study in Political Science and International Relations, Ogles wrote. Last week, I requested an official copy of my transcript and learned that I was actually awarded a broader degree in Liberal studies with minors in Political Science and English.

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Ogles was elected in November to represent Tennessees 5th Congressional District. He drew headlines in his first week in Washington, opting against supporting Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) for Speaker on the first 11 ballots. On the 12th vote, however, he threw his support behind the California Republican.

Ogles is not the only first-term member of Congress facing questions about his background. Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) has drawn intense scrutiny amid questions about his biography and finances. The congressman admitted to embellishing parts of his resume, and is now said to be facing a number of investigations.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Residents in a Tennessee community are fed up with what they call whiskey fungus  a black mould covering their homes, cars, porches, and other areas.

The Baudoinia compniacensis  whiskey fungus  is supposedly fueled by the ethanol vapour coming from the Jack Daniels buildings in the area and has affected the Lincoln County residents since the firm began construction on six barrel houses in 2018 and set plans in motion to build another 14.

Enraged locals are arguing that the company and the county must take responsibility for the mould as well as the decreasing home prices, and show that air filled with ethanol is safe to breathe.

Patrick Long lives near the barrel houses along with his wife Christi, and they have sued the county.

The area residents are putting forward two main requirements, he told Insider  the installation of an air-filtration system blocking the emissions of ethanol and limiting the fungus growing in the county, and for an environmental impact study to be conducted reviewing the amount of ethanol coming from the barrel houses and what health dangers it may pose.

Im extremely concerned. My wife has breathing problems. One of the neighbours got cancer, Mr Long told the outlet. Its in the air. And you really, probably dont want to be breathing that in. But nobody has done a test to determine if its actually poisonous.

He said the six barrel houses currently located near his home result in him having to spend about $10,000 annually on power-washing his home using water and Clorox.

He added that officials in the area have ceased trying to clean the street signs, instead replacing them when theyre no longer readable.

Ms Longs lawsuit against the county Board of Planning and Zoning argues that the county must order a stop work order to stop the planned construction of additional barrel houses, claiming that the companys initial construction was out of the bounds of the law and that they dont have the correct site-plan approval and building permits for their site.

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About 200 people from the community and Jack Daniels staff attended a public hearing in December of last year.

Becky Benson Carroll said she has stage four lung cancer that has reached her brain. She added that her dog has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

I think there is a concern for the quality of our lives, she said at the meeting, according to The Moore County News. Unfortunately, I wont get to see the results of all of this.

Im a strong, healthy person and this should not have happened. I cant prove it was from this ethanol, but somebody needs to prove that it is not. Im in favour of the filtration system, she said.

The vice president and assistant general manager at the Jack Daniels Distillery, Melvin Keebler, told her she had the companys sympathy and empathy, adding that they are complying with all regulations.

All of our warehouses are permitted appropriately, he said. The air quality inside the warehouses is monitored continuously, and we have the utmost priority for protecting the environment for the safety and health of our employees and our neighbours.

He said all their permits are in compliance and that the company wishes to do everything right.

Its been a great relationship with Moore County and Lincoln County, he added at the time. We hope that relationship continues.

He said that the kind of air filtration technology available isnt applicable to the work that Jack Daniels does.

Jack Daniels told Insider that it complies with all local, state, and federal regulations regarding the design, construction, and permitting of our barrel houses. We are dedicated to protecting the environment and the safety and health of our employees and neighbours.

The mould has reached as far as a mile from the barrel houses, which can hold tens of thousands of barrels of whiskey, leading to part of the alcohol evaporating through the wood barrels pores and reaching the air  whiskey manufacturers call it the angels share.

The mould was initially identified by researchers in 2007 who found that the angels share was the source of the mildew.

The Independent has reached out to the EPA, Jack Daniels and Lincoln County for comment.
Its all eyes on Tesla (TSLA) this week as the EV-maker will hold its Investor Day on Wednesday from its Gigafactory in Austin. The event will be live-streamed (and this being Tesla, timing has not been announced), though some institutional and retail investors will attend the event in person.

Here are three big things to watch as the event unfolds:

Long-term expansion plans

Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently said his long-term goal for Tesla is to produce 20 million cars a year by 2030. With the company delivering 1.31 million vehicles in 2022, it has a long way to go to achieve that goal.

SHANGHAI, CHINA - OCTOBER 20: Aerial view of Tesla Shanghai Gigafactory on October 20, 2022 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images)

The ramp-ups at Giga Austin, Giga Berlin, and expansion plans at Giga Shanghai will help, but the company would need more gigafactories than that to achieve such mass scale. As of the end of 2022, Tesla projected an installed annual capacity of around 1.9 million vehicles, and Musk has speculated Tesla will need 12 gigafactories in total to produce 20 million vehicles a year.

Expect to hear more about these expansion plans on Wednesday  and a possible announcement on next steps. Government officials from Mexico to Indonesia have been talking to Tesla execs about expansion plans and would love nothing more than to bring Musks grand vision to their shores.

Teslas generation 3 platform

Partially covered sketch of Tesla designs from recent video published on 2/22/23

A key part of the Investor Day will be the companys reveal of its generation 3 platform.

This generation 3 platform will likely be Teslas cheaper, robo-taxi car, as Musk has called it, and will be key to mass volume expansion of Teslas cars  and EVs globally in general. An EV costing around $25,000-$30,000 will open up a wide swath of potential customers looking for a cheap EV alternative.

Its most likely impossible for Tesla to deliver 20 million vehicles annually by 2030 without a cheaper EV to reach a mass group of buyers. Expect Tesla to show investors a working design or even a full-scale model of this gen-3 platform, and to hear a bit more about the platform underpinnings and powertrain.

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While recent global price cuts have driven demand, TSLA likely needs Gen 3 to maintain its 50% delivery CAGR (compound annual growth rate), Wells Fargo analyst Colin Langan wrote in a note last week. Gen 3 is expected to be $30K, so TSLA would cover ~95% of US price points; $30K EV that is as profitable as a comparable ICE model, likely drives more near-term momentum; therefore, credible profit/cost targets & launch timing are key.

Tesla may not fully reveal it, but investors will surely be keen to know how Tesla intends to build an EV cheaply and at scale. Will the battery technology differ remarkably from its current cars? How soon will the vehicle arrive? These will be key questions that investors will surely asking at the event.

Musks Master Plan 3

When invites went out last month, Tesla fans and investors were speculating there would be more to this event than capital allocation plans and long-term expansion. And Musk confirmed as much, proclaiming that he would indeed reveal his upcoming Master Plan 3:

Master Plan 3, the path to a fully sustainable energy future for Earth will be presented on March 1.



The future is bright! pic.twitter.com/11ug0LRlbD  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 8, 2023

Musk had previously teased his Master Plan 3 early last year, saying it would be dealing with topics like scaling [production] to extreme size, which is needed to shift humanity away from fossil fuels, and AI.

Of course, part and parcel of Musks vision of shifting humanity to a sustainable energy future will require mass scaling of EVs and making them affordable to most people, as mentioned above.

How to store that solar power will be key for harnessing Teslas sustainable energy vision. New updates to Teslas residential Powerwall battery may be coming, as well as new details on technology or upcoming projects for Teslas massive Megapack commercial battery applications. Tesla has been

Fred Closter checks his Tesla Powerwall battery system on Thursday Feb. 17, 2022, at his home in Boynton Beach. Closters $40,000 solar power installation, which includes $24,000 in solar panels and two $8,000 Tesla storage batteries, enables the retiree and his wife to live almost completely free of FPLs grid. (Susan Stocker/Sun Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

Secondly, the question of how to store that solar power will be key for harnessing Teslas sustainable energy vision. New updates to Teslas residential Powerwall battery may be coming, as well as new details on technology or upcoming projects for Teslas massive Megapack commercial battery applications. Tesla has been ramping up Megapack production and construction initiatives recently.

Tesla has been supply constrained in energy storage for as long as we can remember, New Street Research analyst Pierre Ferragu wrote in a note last week. And the ramp of the new megapack fab in Lathrop, which quadruples the companys production capacity, we expect an inflection point in 2023 to 2024.

Tesla has been slowly ramping up its use of new 4680 battery cells, and using LFP battery chemistry for some of its vehicles in China.

Kazuo Tadanobu, CEO of Panasonic's Energy Company holds a prototype of the 4680 format battery cell (L) next to the current 2170 battery supplied to Tesla Inc during a news conference in Tokyo, Japan October 25, 2021.REUTERS/Tim Kelly

Expect to hear more on those initiatives, plus more importantly, how the company is going to acquire the materials needed to build these batteries. Most recently Tesla started construction of a lithium refinery in Texas, and is reportedly in talks to buy lithium miner Sigma Lithium. Perhaps an announcement will be made on Teslas sourcing of critical minerals it will use to build batteries, and where it will be making them.

To support its volume and cost targets, we think Tesla will speak about the role of in-house battery manufacturing technology, capacity expansion, and actions to secure raw materials, Deutsche Bank analyst Emmanuel Rosner said in a note last week. Rosner believes this weeks event will push the stock higher, and raised his price target to $250 from $220 in anticipation.



Pras Subramanian is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on Twitter and on Instagram.

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By Jonathan Stempel

(Reuters) - Tesla Inc and its Chief Executive Elon Musk were sued on Monday by shareholders who accused them of overstating the effectiveness and safety of their electric vehicles' Autopilot and Full Self-Driving technologies.

In a proposed class action filed in San Francisco federal court, shareholders said Tesla defrauded them over four years with false and misleading statements that concealed how its technologies, suspected as a possible cause of multiple fatal crashes, "created a serious risk of accident and injury."

They said Tesla's share price fell several times as the truth became known, including after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating the technologies, and reports that the Securities and Exchange Commission was investigating Musk's Autopilot claims.

The share price also fell 5.7% on Feb. 16 after NHTSA forced a recall of more than 362,000 Tesla vehicles equipped with Full Self-Driving beta software because they could be unsafe around intersections.

Tesla has said it acquiesced to the recall, though it disagreed with NHTSA's analysis.

"As a result of defendants' wrongful acts and omissions, and the precipitous decline in the market value of the Company's common stock, plaintiff and other class members have suffered significant losses and damages," the complaint said.

Tesla, which does not have a media relations department, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Monday's lawsuit led by shareholder Thomas Lamontagne seeks unspecified damages for Tesla shareholders from Feb. 19, 2019 to Feb. 17, 2023. Chief Financial Officer Zachary Kirkhorn and his predecessor Deepak Ahuja are also defendants.

Tesla's share price closed Monday up $10.75, or 5.5%, at $207.63, but the stock has lost about half its value since peaking in Nov. 2021.

Musk, the world's second-richest person, is expected at Tesla's March 1 investor day to promote the company's artificial intelligence capability and plans to expand its vehicle lineup.

The case is Lamontagne v Tesla Inc et al, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, No. 23-00869.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Stephen Coates)
A centrist House Democrat spoke out in favor of the Biden administrations controversial asylum plan over the weekend, adding support to a policy proposal thats garnered harsh criticism from immigrant advocates.

Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), the longest-tenured member from a Texas border district, pushed back against comparisons between President Bidens asylum plan and former President Trumps management of the issue.

I know some of the immigration groups are saying, Oh, its a Trump-like rule. No, Trump wanted to ban people from coming in, Cuellar told NPRs All Things Considered on Sunday.

Cuellar defended as reasonable the Biden asylum policy, which imposes severe restrictions on who can apply for asylum, but under a rebuttable presumption rather than an outright ban.

People can still ask for asylum to come in, said Cuellar.

Under Bidens asylum proposal, many migrants are presumed ineligible for asylum if they traverse a third country without asking for protections there. The plan would generally make it harder for migrants to claim asylum upon entry into the United States.

The administration has been adamant in its defense of the policys human rights bona fides, pushing back against immigration advocates and many Democrats who say its a rehash of Trumps transit ban.

But Cuellar says that criticism stems in part from unfamiliarity with life on the border.

If somebody is 1,500 miles away, it is so easy for people to say, Oh, yeah, let everybody in, Cuellar told NPR.

But if youre a mayor, youre a county judge, youre a land owner, youre somebody down here at the border, and you see this day after day after day, then I think youre going to have a very different perspective than somebody whos 1,500 miles away, he added.

Cuellar comes from a politically competitive Rio Grande Valley border district thats both a hot spot for migrant crossings and a major focal point for trade over the border.

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That mix has created a dichotomy in the area of Laredo, Texas, where business interests large and small depend on a border open to commerce, while some locals worry about the immediate effects of migrants on local communities.

That dichotomy is very present for voters in the region, said Cuellar.

If a person thinks that the immigration activists are the only part of the Democratic base, then I think theyre wrong. I mean, yeah, theyre important. I agree. Theyre a very important group, said Cuellar.

But like Ive said, when we talk about the issues down here at the border, Ive always said immigration activists are one, and I think the White House listened to them too long for one year without taking consideration to the men and women down here that have so many families down here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
[Source]

Texas Republican Rep. Lance Gooden (R, TX-5) has doubled down on his attack against Rep. Judy Chu (D, CA-27) amid the denouncement of his racist remarks that questioned the loyalty of Chu to the U.S. by leaders of a House select committee on China.

On Sunday, Gooden tweeted that that it is not xenophobic to question where [Chu's] loyalty lies."

Gooden noted that Chu previously voted against a committee to investigate China. He also cited an article from The Daily Caller that reported Chu was named the Honorary Chairwoman of an organization that allegedly has ties to a Chinese Communist Party intelligence front group.

On Feb. 22, Gooden, who is a third-term Texas Republican representative, called out Chu in an appearance on Fox News Jesse Watters Primetime, stating that she should be denied access to classified materials and investigated.

More from NextShark: China's high court has deemed the grueling 72-hour workweek illegal

I question her either loyalty or competence, Gooden previously said. If she doesnt realize whats going on, then shes totally out of touch with one of her core constituencies.

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D, IL-8), the ranking Democrat on the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party panel, called Goodens remarks offensive.

One of my colleagues, unfortunately, attacked Judy Chu, the first Chinese American congresswoman in the United States Congress, saying that somehow shes not loyal to the United States. I find that offensive as an Asian American myself. More from NextShark: Asian American PAC pulls support for Rep. Michelle Steel; campaign denies having it in the first place

Wisconsin Rep. Mike Gallagher (R, WI-8), the Republican chair of the panel, also noted that Gooden was out of line.

We should not question anybodys loyalty to the United States, Gallagher stated. That is out of bounds. Its beyond the pale.

Chu  the first Chinese American woman elected to Congress  and her democratic allies have since demanded an apology from Gooden.

On Feb. 23, Chu described Goodens remarks as racist in a statement.

Rep. Goodens comments on Fox News questioning my loyalty to the USA is absolutely outrageous. It is based on false information spread by an extreme, right-wing website. Furthermore, it is racist. I very much doubt that he would be spreading these lies were I not of Chinese American descent.

Gooden wanted Chu to be investigated for previously defending Dominic Ng, the CEO of East West Bank in California, from accusations that he is working with the Chinese Communist Party in Beijing.

The dispute comes as lawmakers take steps to limit the power of Beijing in global affairs, especially amid concerns that Beijing might aid Moscow during the ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Rep. Lance Gooden (R-Texas) is doubling down on his attack on Rep. Judy Chu (D-Calf.) despite receiving bipartisan pushback, arguing that it is not xenophobic to question the congresswomans loyalty to her country.

In a tweet on Sunday, Gooden pointed to Chus vote against a resolution creating a select committee to investigate China, and he cited reporting from The Daily Caller that said Chu  the first Chinese American congresswoman  had been appointed to an honorary position in an organization with ties to the Communist Party of China.

Democrat @RepJudyChu: Voted AGAINST committee to investigate China. Named Honorary Chairwoman of CCP front group. Its not xenophobic to question where her loyalty lies, Gooden wrote on Twitter.

The Hill reached out to Chu for comment. She defended herself against Goodens previous remarks, calling his comments absolutely outrageous and racist.

The political firestorm began last week, when Gooden suggested that Chu should not receive access to sensitive classified materials because she defended Dominic Ng, who President Biden appointed to lead U.S. trade interests in Asia. Ng has been accused of having ties to the Chinese Communist Party, prompting a group of House GOP lawmakers to ask the FBI to investigate the appointee.

I question her either loyalty or competence, Gooden said of Chu during an interview on Fox News. If she doesnt realize whats going on then shes totally out of touch with one of her core constituencies.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle condemned the remarks.

Let me say we should not question anybodys loyalty to the United States. I think that is out of bounds. Its beyond the pale, Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), the chairman of the China select committee, told CBSs Face The Nation on Sunday.

Absolutely, we shouldnt question anybodys loyalty, he added.

During that same interview, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (Ill.), the top Democrat on the panel, called Goodens comments offensive.

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In a separate statement, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said the Texas Republicans slanderous accusations against Chu was dangerous, unconscionable and xenophobic.

Updated: 4:27 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Saharat Sawangjaeng is pictured in a February, 2023, police handout before and after undergoing surgical procedures to evade capture on drugs charges. Bangkok Police

A Thai drug dealer sought to evade capture by extensive cosmetic surgery, police say.

He altered his appearance to look like a "handsome Korean man," reports say.

The man was caught in Bangkok after dealing MDMA, police allege.

A Thai man accused of dealing drugs underwent extensive plastic surgery to make himself look like a "handsome Korean man" in a bid to avoid capture, reports say.

Saharat Sawangjaeng, 25, who used the Korean alias Jimin Seong, was arrested by police in Bangkok last week, The Bangkok Post reported.

Police said they were able to track down Sawangjaeng by tracing the sale of MDMA, also known as ecstasy, on the streets of Bangkok, with witnesses describing him as a "handsome Korean man."

Sawangjaeng was able to evade capture for 3 months because of extensive facial surgical procedures to alter his appearance, officials said.

Sawangjaeng has reportedly confessed to obtaining drugs over the dark net, and selling them on.

In a video of his arrest, Sawangjaeng said he intended to move to South Korean to start a new life, remarking "I am bored of Thailand."

Thai Police major-general Theeradej Thammasutee described him as "one of the main causes of Bangkok's MDMA epidemic", The Straits Times reported.

"He is a drug lord importing MDMA from Europe at just 25 years old. We believe there are more suspects in foreign countries. We will continue our investigation," Thammasutee said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Thai drug lord Sarahat Swangjaeng, 25, was arrested after evading authorities for three months. (Photo credit: Thai Police)

Police arrested a Thai drug lord who went to extreme measures to evade authorities going after him for three months.

Sarahat Sawangjaeng had undergone a number of plastic surgeries to look like a "handsome Korean man" and changed his name to Jimin Cheong. He was finally caught in Bangkok on Friday (24 February) on warrant issued by the Criminal Court.

Sarahat had been importing methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), more commonly known as ecstasy, from Europe into Thailand by ordering it through the dark web and paying with Bitcoin. He would then sell it to customers in Bangkok and the surrounding areas.

In November 2022, Thai customs officials found a package containing 2,575 grams of MDMA and 290 ecstasy pills. The package was traced back to Sarahat, leading to the warrant for his arrest.

Police use old-school tactic

Despite his best efforts at physical transformation, authorities caught Sarahat using an old-school police tactic. An undercover police officer pretended to be interested in working as a drug mule for Sarahat, leading to the drug lord's arrest.

Thai media also reported that the police were shocked upon Sarahats arrest because none of his original face was left, and that indeed he had transformed into a handsome Korean man.

They noted that his face had dramatically changed after they compared his face to his mugshots from his three previous arrests.

Thai police said Sarahat was one of the main causes of Bangkok's MDMA epidemic, and that they believed there were more suspects in foreign countries. The investigation is ongoing.

Sarahat will be charged with illegal importation of narcotics.

Marvin Joseph Ang is a news and lifestyle writer who focuses on politics, the economy, and pop culture. Follow him on Twitter at @marvs30ang for latest news and updates.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

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Fake nursing degrees. (Photo illustration: Kelli R. Grant/Yahoo News; photos: Getty Images)

More than 7,600 aspiring nurses cheated the health care system and obtained fraudulent nursing degrees from three South Florida nursing schools, according to federal authorities, in a scheme health care professionals say could undermine trust in the profession.

Some 2,600 of those individuals used fake diplomas to take the nursing board exam (NCLEX) and passed, giving them access to work in health care facilities across the country. The diplomas were issued by Siena College in Broward County, the Palm Beach School of Nursing in Palm Beach County and Sacred Heart International Institute in Broward County  all of which are now closed. Though the scheme involved Florida schools, it affected multiple states.

I'm in South Florida. It's a hotbed of fraud, whether it's identity fraud, or PPP fraud, and health care fraud, but this is something that we have not seen before, Fernando Porras, assistant special agent in charge, told Yahoo News. Porras is leading the oversight investigation for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The investigation, known as Operation Nightingale, found that the national scheme began in 2016 and ended in 2021, accumulating more than $100 million.

We sent in  on several occasions  undercover agents to purchase these degrees as they were explained to us and they were able to purchase the degrees having no medical background or having taken any course they just paid the amount [$17,000], Porras explained.

On Jan. 25, the U.S. Attorney's Office of the Southern District of Florida indicted 25 individuals in Delaware, New York, New Jersey, Texas and Florida who were allegedly working as recruiters for the illegal licensing scheme.

You don't just wake up one morning and find out that the Palm Beach School of Nursing [or Siena College and Sacred Heart International Institute] is issuing fake degrees. You don't see that publicized in an infomercial. You find out about it because you are told by a recruiter, Porras said.

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The 25 defendants are each facing up to 20 years in prison for allegedly participating in a wire fraud scene that created the shortcuts for thousands to receive bogus nursing diplomas.

According to Porras, the Florida schools that were issuing the fake diplomas were once legitimate schools.

They were certified by the state of Florida to provide nursing degrees, he said. They got to a point that their passing rate was dismal. And so they were put on probation. And then shortly after, their certification was revoked. So once they were revoked, and they could no longer issue any diplomas, "they would back-date the attendance of these students. So, let's say they were revoked in 2019; then they would issue the certificate and the diploma as if the student had attended between 2016 and 2017."

Now, state licensing boards nationwide have annulled the licenses of dozens of nurses who were practicing with fake degrees.

In November, Delaware revoked 26 licenses of nurses tied to the scheme, but officials say there could still be more nurses who need to be let go.

We have heard accounts of additional individuals that have been sent to the Board of Nursing for investigation regarding concern with attendance at those [three South Florida] schools, Christopher Otto, executive director of the Delaware Nursing Association, told Yahoo News.

And some of the individuals who obtained illegal registered nursing (RN) degrees were already licensed practical nurses (LPNs).

For those individuals, their RN or registered nurse license is the one that is annulled. But if they have met the licensing requirements to practice as an LPN, that LPN license is still, in most cases, active, Otto said.

In Georgia, 22 working nurses obtained fake licenses and diplomas. According to local Atlanta TV station WSB-TV, the Georgia Board of Nursing sent letters to the nurses asking them to surrender their fraudulent nursing licenses on Jan 17, but they haven't yet. Yahoo News was not able to immediately reach the board for comment.

Brenda Hage, the director of nursing at Florida Gulf Coast University, which is about two hours away from the South Florida schools that were shut down, told Yahoo News that the scheme is offensive to real nurses.

I think I feel more dismayed than surprised, Hage said. We work so hard as nurses to be credible and to be viewed as ethical by the patients that we care for, and then when somebody tries to game the system, or do something illegal like this, it really offends and concerns all nurses.

But Hage said her biggest concern is the individuals who passed the national nursing board exam (NCLEX) without the proper education or training.

This creates a false sense of information to the public, that somehow it's really easy to sit for the NCLEX exam to become a licensed registered nurse, and nothing can be further from the truth, Hage said.

According to Hage, the NCLEX exam is rigorous and usually takes up to five hours to complete.

This is not something that you can bypass, Jennifer Kennedy, the president of the American Nurses Association, told Yahoo News.

But Kennedy says she is not surprised that a scandal like this occurred in the health care industry because some states have cut their regulatory requirements.

So we're hoping through this scandal that we can leverage this and can restore some of the authority that legislatures have stripped from boards of nursing throughout this country, Kennedy said.

A recent Gallup poll found that over 79% of U.S adults believe nurses have very high honesty and ethical standards compared with more than a dozen other professions. But now health care officials say the degree scandal will push them to win back Americans' trust.

We have to reassure the public that this has been dealt with. We'll monitor for harm, and I cant guarantee it, but we'll do everything possible to prevent it from happening again, Otto said.

So far there have been no reports of patient harm from the nurses with fake degrees, and none of the fake nurses have been charged.

Just because an error or an adverse outcome wasn't reported doesn't mean that there weren't any misses, Hage said. I think they should be charged. The fact that they knew that this was a fraudulent practice, and they engaged in fraud, makes them culpable.

Health care officials say the years-long scheme is unprecedented and could have affected anyone who visits a health care facility.

This case potentially could affect any one of us  we go to emergency rooms, we have loved ones in hospice, in skilled nursing facilities, that can potentially be receiving care from someone that is not properly trained, Porras said.
Tens of thousands of Californians were still without power on Monday morning, after an unusual bout of winter weather battered the state with rain and snow this weekend.

Nearly 45,000 customers across the state had no electricity, with almost 6,000 of those households located in Los Angeles County, according to outage tracking website PowerOutage.us.

More than 13,400 outages were concentrated in Mariposa, Madera and Fresno counties  located in the south-central Sierra Nevada and the adjacent San Joaquin Valley regions  where mountaintops were pummeled with snow.

Northern California counties of Humboldt, Mendocino, Lake, Butte, Yuba and Nevada collectively had more than 10,000 outages by Monday morning, PowerOutage.us reported.

As of Sunday morning, snow totals in the mountainous regions of San Diego County climbed above 7 feet in some spots, according to the regional branch of the National Weather Service (NWS).

Some of San Diego Countys coastal cities received more than 3 inches of rain, with the regions valley and mountain towns getting even more.

In mountain areas north of Los Angeles and Oxnard counties, snow accumulation reached up to 6 feet at certain high-elevation points, NWS data showed.

Beverly Hills and Bel Air were awash in nearly 7 inches of rainfall, while some cities in the San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley and Santa Clarita Valley received between 8 and 11 inches of rain.

One Los Angeles Department of Power and Water crew member sustained a serious injury while conducting repair work amid severe weather conditions, the agency announced on Saturday.

Late into the night on Sunday, the department tweeted that its crews wont stop until all are restored.

As the initial bout of wintry weather began wrapping up this weekend, the NWS Los Angeles branch warned on Sunday that another (weaker) storm will impact the area through Wednesday.

Although this storm will likely be weaker along the coast, meteorologists warned of potentially treacherous conditions at higher elevations across California.

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The NWS announced a blizzard warning on Monday morning for the San Joaquin and Yosemite Valley regions, where the Sierra Nevada mountains could receive up to an additional 6 feet of snow and winds as high as 75 miles per hour through Wednesday.

A winter weather advisory was also in effect for mountain ranges above 4,500 feet in San Diego and Riverside counties, which could see an added 8 to 18 inches of snow over the next few days, according to the NWS.

The agencys Sacramento office, meanwhile, cautioned against driving, as heavy mountain and foothill snow is currently causing dangerous travel conditions and leading to conditions of near zero visibility.

The Sierra Avalanche Center in Truckee, Calif., issued a backcountry avalanche warning for the Central Sierra Nevada, including in the Greater Lake Tahoe area.

High avalanche danger will occur through Wednesday Morning, the agency stated.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Theres a desperate need to get students back on track in the classroom. Data shows the pandemic played a significant roll on students math and reading scores.

Channel 9 is committed to putting more books in the hands of children and teens across the Carolinas. Starting Wednesday, were teaming up with the Promising Pages Book Fair to collect fairly gently used books for the 9 Books for Kids drive. The goal is to get books to 11,500 elementary school students in the Charlotte area.

9 BOOKS FOR KIDS

>> You can drop off donations at any local Arbys or Ashley Furniture location. To find a site near you, click here. The drive will last until April 30.

Having access to books at home is a luxury for many students across the Charlotte area, so reading during the summer can be a far-fetched idea.

We are a regional book bank, so any community organization or teacher or school can come get books for free, said Kelly Cates, the deputy director for Promising Pages.

Reading may be fundamental, but often times, its far from the fingertips of our communitys youngest minds.

An estimated 60,000 children in the Charlotte area that dont have access to books. Theyre living in a book desert, so they have 10 or less books in their homes, Cates said.

Data from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools shows among economically disadvantaged third grade students, 78% were not reading on grade level this school year. Thats a more than 20% increase from the previous school year.

If youre not reading on grade level by third grade, youre four times more likely to drop out of high school, said Kelly Cates, the deputy director for Promising Pages.

If youre not reading on grade level by third grade, youre four times more likely to drop out of high school, Cates said.

Its why Promising Pages is bursting at the seams with books right now as the prepare for the giveaway.

PREVIOUS: Family Focus: 9 Books for Kids partners with nonprofit to collect books for the community

Were trying desperately to get as many books into childrens homes as possible, Cates said.

Theyre collecting more than 60,000 books, cleaning them by hand, and will distribute them ahead of summer break. Theyll do it through book fairs at 23 CMS Title I elementary schools. Each student will get at least five books.

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We have a higher number of children who are not proficient, and so we are constantly working to help them, said Jennifer Harrison, who is coordinating the fair at Bruns Avenue Elementary School.

She said she sees firsthand the impact of students not being strong readers.

One year of learning loss or being behind can translate to two years the following if we dont get them caught up, she said.

And keeping those skills fresh through the summer can be crucial to future success.

It impacts their social, emotional -- theyre not confident. If youre not confident you dont practice, if you practice you cant gain those skills and become proficient, Harrison explained.

Organizers are asking the community to donate diverse books that will really grab a kids attention.

>> To learn more, visit 9booksforkids.com.

(WATCH BELOW: 9 Books for Kids 2022 - Building A Better Vocabulary)
Oscar balloting is about to begin. Wondering how some voters are leaning? (Lehel Kovacs / For The Times)

Oscar voting begins Thursday and, as all the responsible citizens reading this know, you're not always entirely prepared when you come face to face with that ballot. Film academy members, including the three sharing their picks here, sometimes end up making their choices on a whim and end up looking back on their selections with a mixture of bewilderment and regret.

In other words: Oscar voters ... they're just like us!

Our trio this year  an actor, a producer and a director  are united on two fronts: They're happy with the nominated films and performances and they're feeling a little overwhelmed because of the difficult choices the ballot requires them to make. Here's what they were thinking on the eve of voting ...

DIRECTOR, Woman in her 50s

Picture: I've seen "Tar" three times now and it's not just my favorite film from the past year, it's one of my favorites from the past decade. It's vital, strange, provocative. The tension around the old guard passing along power to Lydia in a completely male-dominated system and the sense of her hanging very tightly onto that power landed much harder for me with multiple viewings, as did, of course, the surreal touches and the dream logic. I also love seeing a movie more than once and being struck by its insistence on a certain amount of mystery. I still have questions!

Director: Loving "Tar" like I do, it's no surprise I'm voting for Todd Field, who directed this movie with such command. It became a braver film every time I watched it. I loved the complexity of my experience with the movie. I loved the fact that in some respects I loved Lydia Tar, and in others, I was completely repelled by her. I think that's our relationship to artists and iconic figures we put on a pedestal and then have to go through the unwelcome experience of uncovering their bad behavior and disordered egos. Field makes you wrestle with that, adding so much detail and nuance. It's a massive accomplishment.

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Lead actress: Cate Blanchett for the perfect marriage of performance and filmmaking in "Tar" ... though I did struggle with that as I loved Andrea Riseborough in "To Leslie" as well. I think the controversy surrounding her nomination, it's like some academy members were uncomfortable with what it exposed  that it helps when powerful, visible people notice you. Yes, that is an unfortunate fact of this process. But her being nominated was a real bright spot for me, and it's sad that it's curdled in this way.

Lead actor: I've liked Colin Farrell in so much that he's done, and lately it just feels like he's cranked it up to 11. It's so exciting to see his lack of vanity. You watch him play characters that make you wonder if they're dim, but then he reveals layers of humanity underneath. He's so affecting in "The Banshees of Inisherin."

Supporting actress: There's something about seeing an actor that you feel like you have this relationship with over time. I've watched Jamie Lee Curtis in so many movies since I was around 10 years old and seeing her play this grouchy character who was a big softie inside in "Everything Everywhere All at Once" just made me happy. I just love that performance. It's so memorable and so much fun. I hope she wins.

Supporting actor: Barry Keoghan in "The Banshees of Inisherin." Initially, it feels like you're meant to laugh at him and that he's the butt of the joke and then you get to know the character in all of his complexity so that by the time we land on his face for the final time, it's just devastating. It felt like such a loss. Every line he delivered was perfect. The way he throws out "touche" in that one scene ... you think, "Oh, maybe I've completely misunderstood that character."

(Lehel Kovacs / For The Times)

PRODUCER, man in his 40s

Picture: My top three are "Women Talking," "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Tar." "Everything Everywhere All at Once" would be fourth, and I think it's going to win best picture and I'll be super-excited when it does. I have to say, I liked the list of 10 nominees this year. There will always be quibbles. I would have liked to see "The Woman King" in there. So it's tough to rank them. But "Women Talking" was the movie that moved me the most, and it did a lot of things that I aspire to do in my own work. And "Top Gun" second for what it did for movies in the moment it was released.

Director: I'm tempted to vote for ["The Fabelmans" director Steven] Spielberg, but I think Todd Field for "Tar." It's just such a smart, gripping, masterful film.

Lead actress: I'm not sure between Michelle Yeoh and Cate Blanchett. I think I'm going with Ke Huy Quan and Jamie Lee Curtis in the supporting categories, so probably Blanchett. I can't vote for "Everything Everywhere All at Once" across the board, can I? Or maybe I can. [Laughs]

Lead actor: I'm not always into the Baz Luhrmann experience but I was super blown away by Austin Butler in "Elvis." I don't even have to think about this one.

Supporting actress and supporting actor: "Everything Everywhere All at Once" works so well because of those supporting performances from Jamie Lee Curtis and Ke Huy Quan  they're an integral part of all those individual pieces creating a larger whole. They're just perfect, timeless examples of what it means to do a supporting performance and also just great fun. I love who they both are in the industry at large as well. In a perfect world, I like to vote for a great performance that also honors a career and voting for them checks both boxes.

ACTOR, woman in her 50s

Picture: You're supposed to rank these, and I've been shuffling the order around in my head for the last few days. I just watched "Everything Everywhere All at Once" a second time and it was even better on repeat viewing. The ending just floored me. However ... I might watch "Tar" again before I vote because I want to lose myself in its mysteries and that elaborate world it creates. Let's put those at one and two for now.

Director: Todd Field for "Tar." He made me feel uncomfortable, and I like movies that make me feel that way.

Lead actress: Andrea Riseborough was extraordinary in "To Leslie," and it's unfair that people have been so focused on the unorthodox campaign and have lost sight of how deserving the work is. She's a chameleon and has been terrific in everything she has done. All five women are remarkable. I wish I could vote for them all.

Lead actor: Colin Farrell is one of our greatest actors and has been on this remarkable run for seemingly forever. There are such undercurrents of hurt and sadness and loneliness in his performance in "Banshees." And moments that made me laugh out loud too. It's difficult not to vote for Austin Butler because I adored "Elvis," but I think he's going to be back at the Oscars again in the near future.

Supporting actress: There's a lot of great acting turns in Marvel movies that get overlooked, and I just don't think you can do that with Angela Bassett, can you? She should have an Oscar by now.

Supporting actor: They're all so good, but I think Ke Huy Quan for "Everything Everywhere All at Once" because he does so many things in that movie and does every one of them so well.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Three South Florida men face up to life in prison after being convicted of invading a Miramar home and holding a couple at gunpoint in a plot to rob $20,000 from them, federal authorities say.

After a two-week trial, a Fort Lauderdale federal jury found Kejuan Brandon Campbell, Antonio Charles James Jr. and Dionte Alexander-Wilcox guilty on one count of conspiracy to kidnap, two counts of kidnapping, three counts of bank robbery, and three counts of carrying a firearm during a crime of violence. They are scheduled for sentencing in late April before U.S. District Judge James Cohn.

At trial, federal prosecutors said that on Oct. 11, 2020, Campbell, James, and Alexander-Wilcox invaded the home because the couples estranged nephew had stolen $20,000 from Campbell earlier that day. Wearing masks and gloves, the three men brandished firearms as they forced their way into the couples residence, assaulted the husband, and detained the victims on the floor by pointing guns at them, according to trial evidence.

The men ransacked the home and took the victims phones and a wallet, prosecutors said. Using the wifes telephone, they tried using CashApp to transfer $20,000 to themselves, but the transactions were declined. Campbell then forced the wife to travel with him to multiple stores to try to cash $20,000 in checks. The other two defendants kept the husband at home, holding him at gunpoint, evidence showed.

After the stores declined to process the checks, the men stayed overnight at the victims home and planned to obtain the money from the couples bank the next morning, prosecutors with the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

During their overnight stay, the defendants cooked, drank alcohol, and smoked marijuana, prosecutors said. They kept a gun pointed at the couple inside and did not allow them to speak to each other. At one point, with gun in hand, Alexander-Wilcox forced the wife into a bedroom and raped her, according to trial evidence.

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The next morning, Campbell forced the wife to withdraw $20,000 from ATMs. After Campbell brought the wife home, the three men filled a couple of suitcases with the victims jewelry, prosecutors said. They also gathered items on which they might have left their DNA.

The men threatened to kill the victims if they called the police, locked them in a bathroom and took their house key, prosecutors said. They left with the cash.

The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and local police in South Florida.
By Victoria Klesty and Gwladys Fouche

OSLO (Reuters) -Environmental campaigner Greta Thunberg and hundreds of other activists on Monday blocked entrances to Norway's energy ministry, protesting against wind turbines built on land traditionally used by Indigenous Sami reindeer herders.

Thunberg, a vocal advocate for ending the world's reliance on carbon-based power, said the transition to green energy could not come at the expense of Indigenous rights.

"Indigenous rights, human rights, must go hand-in-hand with climate protection and climate action. That can't happen at the expense of some people. Then it is not climate justice," Thunberg told Reuters while sitting outside the ministry's main entrance, where she had chained herself to other demonstrators.

Norway's supreme court in 2021 ruled that two wind farms built at Fosen in central Norway violated Sami rights under international conventions, but the turbines remain in operation more than 16 months later.

Police on Monday afternoon cleared one side entrance to the government building complex housing the energy ministry, carrying away some demonstrators.

"Right now I mostly feel very, very convinced that the Sami at Fosen should get their rights, I feel this very strongly and there are a lot of emotions," one of the demonstrators, who gave her name as Joni, told Reuters after being removed.

Reindeer herders in the Nordic country say the sight and sound of the giant wind power machinery frighten their animals and disrupt age-old traditions.

"We are here to demand that the turbines must be torn down and that legal rights must be respected," said Sami singer-songwriter, actress and activist Ella Marie Haetta Isaksen.

She and a dozen other Sami demonstrators had occupied the ministry's reception area since Thursday. Police forcibly removed them around 2:30 a.m (1:30 GMT) on Monday and detained them before releasing them.

The Sami protesters wore their traditional costume, often called gakti, inside out as a sign of protest.

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The ministry said the ultimate fate of the wind farms is a complex legal quandary despite the supreme court ruling and is hoping to find a compromise.

The court's verdict did not say what should happen next to the 151 turbines, which can power some 100,000 Norwegian homes, or what should happen to the dozens of kilometres (miles) of roads built to facilitate the construction.

"We understand that this case is a burden for the reindeer herders," Minister of Energy and Petroleum Terje Aasland said in a statement to Reuters.

"The ministry will do what it can to contribute to resolving this case and that it will not take longer than necessary," he added.

Owners of the Roan Vind and Fosen Vind farms include Germany's Stadtwerke Muenchen, Norwegian utilities Statkraft and TroenderEnergi, as well as Swiss firms Energy Infrastructure Partners and BKW.

"We trust that the ministry will find good solutions allowing us to continue the production of renewable energy while maintaining the rights of the reindeer owners," Roan Vind said in a statement.

Utility BKW said it expected the wind turbines to remain in place, with compensatory measures to ensure that the rights of the Sami reindeer herders are guaranteed.

Stadtwerke Muenchen declined to comment.

Statkraft and Energy Infrastructure Partners were not immediately available for comment.

(Additional reporting by Nora Buli; Writing by Terje Solsvik; Editing by Robert Birsel and Frank Jack Daniel)
(Getty Images)

TikTok has been banned on official Canadian devices, making it the latest country to take action against the app.

Similar bans are already in place in the federal US government, many states, and the European Commission. Like those bans, the new ruling in Canada will see the app removed from devices owned by government employees.

Canada followed other bans in indicating that the ban was the result of fears about privacy and security, though it did not specify exactly what concerns it had.

A review of the mobile applications behavior in relation to the Policy on Service and Digital found that TikToks data collection methods may leave users vulnerable to cyber attacks, a note sent to staff read, according to Bloomberg and the National Post, which both reported the news.

As such, the app will be automatically removed and blocked from use on all government-issued mobile devices, the note reportedly warned.

Numerous politicians have suggested that the TikToks ownership by the China-based Bytedance has led to security worries. They have suggested that the Chinese government will be able to use the app to access the data of citizens  though Bytedance has claimed that the Chinese government cannot access that data and that it is stored in local markets.

The Canadian ban comes just days after the European Commission banned the app from official devices, also citing the increased risk of cyber attacks. That in turn had followed a range of similar rulings in the US, at both federal and state level, which tended to focus on the danger to citizens data.

TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Independent but told media that it was disappointed in the Canadian decision.

Were disappointed that the Chief Information Officer of Canada has moved to block TikTok on government-issued mobile devices without citing any specific security concerns about TikTok or contacting us to discuss any concern prior to making this decision, a spokesperson told Engadget.

We are always available to meet with our government officials to discuss how we protect the privacy and security of Canadians, but singling out TikTok in this way does nothing to achieve that shared goal.

All it does is prevent officials from reaching the public on a platform loved by millions of Canadians.
(TikTok / alix earle)

TikTok star Alix Earle has left fans stunned after giving a tour of her college home, complete with cluttered bathrooms and piles of laundry.

The 22-year-old student  who has 4.7m followers on TikTok  went viral this week when she gave fans a glimpse inside the off-campus home she shares with five other girls. Earle attends the University of Miami and recently rose to influencer stardom with her viral Get Ready With Me videos.

The tour we have all been waiting for, Earle began the house tour, which has received 7.6m views since it was posted just this weekend. Welcome to Casa Amore.

The New Jersey native began the house tour by showing off their kitchen, which included a tiny wooden house named Casa Cucaracha placed next to the trash bin. We get a lot of cockroaches so we just made a little house for them, she said, laughing.

Keeping in theme, Earle zoomed in on the cockroach-shaped clips she and her roommates use to seal their chip bags. Our chip bag clips are also cockroach-themed, she added.

Next, Earle panned her phone camera to their fish tank  where their pet fish named Elton swam motionless  then over to the stove where a pot of ramen noodles was simmering.

Empty glasses, seltzer cans, and a Titos bottle were scattered across the dining table in the living area, seemingly left over from a night of partying. Also in tow were Starbucks bags and coffee cups sitting on the coffee table.

In a different area of the house, Earle revealed that she and her roommates even made some minor renovations to their college home.

So, this room was not a bedroom but we made it into one, she said, pointing to a pair of farmhouse-style sliding doors.

We just bought these doors but they dont fit over the space, Earle added, noting the two-inch gap in between the wall and the door.

Next up on the house tour was one room dedicated to a lot of packages, followed by their laundry room that also doubled as a storage space. She panned the camera to reveal piles of clothes, boxes, suitcases and her roommate Kristens makeshift art studio.

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Finally, it was time to see Earles shared bathroom space, which was cluttered with beauty products and styling tools across the countertops. The influencer even went rogue when she touched the toilet seat with her bare hand.

The toilet is like a childrens toilet, so its right on the ground and this doesnt stay on, so you cant sit too hard, she said, wiggling the toilet seat.

As for Earles bedroom, she revealed that she and her roommates jokingly call it the dungeon because only one window helps shed some natural light in the otherwise dark room.

Earles honest tour of her college home received mixed reactions from fans in the comments section. While some people were in utter shock at the state of her messy home, others applauded the influencer for showing the not-so-glamorous side of college living  even if youre a social media star.

I love this, commented Uncut Gems actor Julia Fox, who also went viral with her candid tour of her one-bedroom Manhattan apartment.

Nah, I could never do this, commented someone else, while another user wrote: I would cry.

When did living like this become a flex? one user asked, which prompted some people to point out that college living isnt always the cleanest.

When youre in college and party 95 per cent of the time and sleep the rest, replied one fan. Exactly. If you have been in college, this makes sense, another agreed.

I feel like this is pretty fitting for five college girls, I mean everyone is hating but it could be worse, a third user said.

Others couldnt get over Earles casual mention about cockroaches, writing: u r so chill about roaches I could NEVER hahaaha

u grabbing the toilet seat just sent shivers up my spine lmao, another said.

Youre so brave for even giving this tour, joked someone else.

Much like Earle, Julia Fox was recently praised on TikTok after she gave a very underwhelming tour of her normal one-bedroom Manhattan apartment. Last month, the model posted the apartment tour to show her fans that she doesnt live as glamorous as they might think.

For me, personally, I just dont like excessive displays of wealth, she explained. They make me feel icky, especially people that have really big houses. Its just really wasteful when theres so many homeless people in this country. Im just not really like that.

The actor also said that she keeps her small New York City apartment because she wants her two-year-old son, Valentino, to be more in touch with the real world despite her life in the spotlight.
A TikTok showing the interaction was viewed 2.2 million times. Flashpop/Getty Images

A mom shouted at her son for not leaving a larger tip at a restaurant in a viral video.

She said her son left a $10 tip on a $104 check, so she demanded he return and give them $20.

The upload received over 2.2 million views and over 15,000 comments which debated the mom's reaction.

A mom caused a stir in the comments of TikTok after she shared a video shouting at her 16-year-old son for not leaving a larger tip at a restaurant.

TikToker Danielle Foster shared a video on February 14 with an on-screen caption that said her son had been to a restaurant on a first date and said he'd received "good service" and tipped "a lot of money" which she wrote transpired to be $10 on a $104 check.

"You need to go to the ATM, and you need to go grab a 20, and drive your ass back to that restaurant, because on a $104 check, $10 is a shitty tip, do you understand me?" Foster could be heard shouting from behind the camera as she addressed who appeared to be her son, who stood smiling at her. "Go now. I'm not asking, I'm telling. It's not funny," she said.

In the video, Foster could be heard saying the person who served her son may have kids, and would be taxed. "You don't know how to tip!" she could be heard saying at the end of the video. The caption of the upload read, "legit he's driving his ass back there I'm so sorry legit I raised him better than this."

The TikTok received over 2.2 million views, and 15,000 comments which debated whether Foster's approach was the right one.

"Good job Mama! I have talked to my kids in detail about how they better tip good when they start going out," one comment read, which received over 3,300 likes.

But another comment, which received 118 likes, read, "Imagine publicly shaming your kid for likes because he left what is socially acceptable as a tip."

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In a follow-up video posted on February 24, Foster responded to the comment directly and addressed the camera. In the video she said her son "doesn't feel publicly shamed," adding, "how I decide to parent the kid that came out of my body and that I pay for is really not your problem."

She continued by saying she did not need to make this video for likes, as she already had 19,000 followers on the app, and asked that they rewatch their original video, "because $10 on a $104 check is not socially acceptable," she said.

Foster also addressed a comment criticizing her for screaming at her son, asking him, "Do I yell when I talk all the time?" followed by, "Why? Because I'm nuts?" to which he responded, "No, we're from New Jersey."

Foster said in another video posted that same day that she had worked as a server before she married her now-husband when she was a "single mom" which is why she was passionate about the topic. She also said she "felt bad" for filming the interaction and had apologized to her son, as well as telling him not to look at the comments as people were "saying stuff that was negative." She said her son was a good kid who undertipped because he was confused about the appropriate amount as he'd partly paid the check with a gift card.

In 2014, writer Tim Urban created a tipping chart for his website Wait But Why, based on interviews he had conducted with service workers, and research from a tipping expert. He concluded the average tipper leaves a tip between 15% to 20% of the check, with an average tip for a server sitting between 17-20%, and advised tippers "never go below 15%," Insider reported in 2019.

Foster did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

For more stories like this, check out coverage from Insider's Digital Culture team here.

Read the original article on Insider
When no adults spoke up, a toddler led authorities in Kentucky to a fugitive wanted on multiple drug offenses.

The Whitley County Sheriffs Department said the incident happened on Friday, Feb. 24, when deputies went to a home to serve a woman with outstanding warrants for her arrest. The 45-year-old suspect was wanted on charges of possession of meth and drug paraphernalia, according to the sheriff.

Family members would not tell deputies where the woman was, but deputies said a very brave and honest toddler in the home was not afraid to speak up.

It is good to be honest, the toddler said with his hands on his hips, according to authorities. We shouldnt lie. She is inside the room next to the bathroom.

Deputies found the woman in the described room, and she was arrested on the drug charges and four other warrants, the sheriffs department said.

The toddler was commended for his integrity and service to the community.

Authorities said the child was visiting family at the home and described him as healthy (and) intelligent.

He was just at the wrong place at the wrong time, the sheriffs department said.

Whitley County is about 105 miles south of Lexington, near the border with Tennessee.

Man kills hotel worker after couple denies him cigarette lighter, Kentucky cops say

High school basketball coach slams student into bleachers, chokes him, KY cops say
Vincent Besnault/Getty Images

A toddler ratted out a fugitive after adults in a Kentucky home refused to help police find her, sheriffs say.

Kentucky sheriffs said the toddler stood up and said "it is good to be honest ... We shouldn't lie."

Cops found the woman  who was wanted on arrest warrants  in a nearby room.

Kentucky sheriffs say they arrested a fugitive last week thanks to a "very brave and honest" toddler who ratted out where the woman was hiding when the other adults refused to help police.

The Williamsburg Police Department and Kentucky State Police went to the house on Friday to arrest a woman wanted on six arrest warrants whom they thought was inside the home.

Whitley County Sheriff's Department Deputy Brentley Patrick told Insider the woman's family was gathered there for dinner when police arrived.

The adults refused to answer when the officers asked where the woman was, Patrick said, with one saying she didn't know if the wanted woman was there and another saying that she lived down the road.

That's when, according to police, "a very brave and honest toddler stood up, put his hands on his hips, and stated 'it is good to be honest we shouldn't lie. She is inside the room next to the bathroom!'"

At one point, the toddler looked to one of the adults and said "You're the one that told me not to lie."

Police found the wanted woman exactly where the toddler said she'd be, according to Patrick, who said she gave herself up and cooperated with the cops.

Patrick said that the child and his family had been visiting from out of town.

Police wrote on Facebook that the child appeared "healthy, intelligent, and in no way appeared to be abused. He was just at the wrong place wrong time."

None of the other adults present at the scene were charged with any crimes, Patrick said.

The woman  who was arrested on a slew of charges including felony drug possession, theft, and failure to pay child support  is now in custody at the Whitley County Detention Center, according to Patrick and court records.

Court officials said the woman doesn't have an attorney listed yet in the cases. She didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on her arrest.

Read the original article on Insider
(Bloomberg) -- A select group of congressional leaders on Tuesday will hear from administration officials about classified documents found in the possession of President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence, people familiar with the matter said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Members of Congress from both parties have been calling for such briefings. The Justice Department has appointed special counsels to investigate how records with classification markings ended up at private residences of Biden and Trump.

The 4 p.m. private briefing at the Capitol is for the so-called Gang of Eight lawmakers who have the most access to the nations secrets. That includes Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, as well as the top Republicans and Democrats on the intelligence committees in both chambers.

The meeting will occur hours before the first appearance Wednesday morning of Attorney General Merrick Garland in front of the new Congress at a hearing of the Senate Judiciary Committee, where he likely will be asked questions about the documents.

Since November, batches of a few classified records or pages with such markings were found in Bidens Delaware home and former office. That followed the recovery under subpoena of hundreds of documents from Trump Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida in August.

Earlier this month, government officials searched for classified documents at Pences Indiana home and Washington office, after others were found by his lawyers.

--With assistance from Chris Strohm.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Congressional leaders and top Intelligence committee members will receive a briefing on Tuesday about the classified documents found at the homes of President Biden, former President Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence, two sources familiar with the planned meeting told The Hill.

The group of lawmakers, also known as the Gang of 8, will learn more about what was included in the various batches of documents. The discovery of the documents raised questions about the handling of classified papers within the executive branch.

The briefing comes after months of sparring between the Justice Department and congressional leaders, including top Intelligence panel members who have been clamoring for access to those documents. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Mark Warner (D-Va.) had made clear his dissatisfaction with the Biden administrations lack of cooperation on the topic.

Warner, along with Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), the top Republican on the committee, in January warned the administration that all things will be on the table in order to view the documents in question. A week later, they called for immediate compliance from administration officials.

The two senators dismissed the Department of Justices argument that the documents couldnt be shared with lawmakers because of its ongoing probe into whether classified information was mishandled. Special counsels were appointed to examine the handling of documents by Biden and Trump.

Hundreds of classified documents, including some marked top secret, were found during the FBIs raid of the former presidents Mar-a-Lago home in August. Months later, reports emerged that classified papers were found at Bidens Delaware home and at an old office. He has maintained that he did not know they were there.

More than a dozen classified papers were found at Pences home in Indiana. A special counsel has not been appointed to examine his situation.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Fox News host Howard Kurtz at The Hill, Extra And The Embassy Of Canada Celebrate The White House Correspondents' Dinner Weekend at the Embassy of Canada on April 24, 2015 in Washington, DC. Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images

Internal messages show how Fox News anchors privately mocked 2020 election conspiracy theories.

Fox News' Howard Kurtz said on Sunday that the company has barred coverage of the messages.

As of Sunday, there were zero stories on Fox News' website covering the messages.

A top Fox News anchor said his company has barred coverage of the Dominion lawsuit, which recently received renewed attention after a 200-page motion showed private texts between Fox stars and executives dismissing the 2020 election conspiracy theories peddled by Donald Trump and his supporters.

During his Sunday segment on MediaBuzz, host Howard Kurtz acknowledged viewers who were wondering why Fox had not covered the ongoing lawsuit.

"Some of you have been asking why I'm not covering the Dominion Voting Machines lawsuit against Fox involving the unproven claims of election fraud in 2020, and it's absolutely a fair question," he said. "I believe I should be covering it. It's a major media story, given my role here at Fox. But the company has decided that, as part of the organization being sued, I can't talk about it or write about it  at least for now. I strongly disagree with that decision, but as an employee, I have to abide by it. And if that changes, I'll let you know."

Dominion, an elections technology company, filed a defamation lawsuit against Fox News in March 2021, accusing the media company of spreading conspiracy theories that claimed Dominion helped rig the 2020 election results.

The result of those theories cost the elections technology company $600 million in potential profits in addition to $1 billion in potential value, Dominion wrote in its filing. The company also said employees' lives were threatened.

"As a result of the false accusations broadcast by Fox into millions of American homes, Dominion has suffered unprecedented harm and its employees' lives have been put in danger," Dominion's attorneys wrote in the lawsuit.

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The company is seeking $1.6 billion in damages.

Last week, a 200-page motion filed by Dominion was made public and contained a cache of internal communications between some of Fox News' top brass, including Fox Corporation Chairman Rupert Murdoch, host Laura Ingraham, Tucker Carlson, and Carlson's producer Alex Pfeiffer, among others.

"[T]he software shit is absurd," Carlson said in a text on November 7, 2020.

"It's dangerously insane these conspiracy theories," Fox reporter Lucas Tomlinson said to Bret Baier, host of Special Report.

The network has largely been silent about the internal messages. A search through FoxNews.com turns up zero recent stories regarding the Dominion lawsuit. Most stories date back to 2020 and are related to the claims against Dominion or Dominion's response to the allegations.

Fox previously said in a statement that Dominion had "cherry-pick[ed]" quotes and taken them out of context.

"There will be a lot of noise and confusion generated by Dominion and their opportunistic private equity owners, but the core of this case remains about freedom of the press and freedom of speech, which are fundamental rights afforded by the Constitution and protected by New York Times v. Sullivan," the statement said.

Though Kurtz suggested the reason why he is not discussing the Dominion lawsuit is that the network is a defendant in an ongoing legal battle, this has not stopped other Fox anchors from disparaging electronic voting machines or mentioning Dominion.

On the night of the 2022 midterm elections, more than a year since Dominion filed its lawsuit, Carlson mentioned claims about electronic voting machines not allowing people to vote in Maricopa County of Arizona, a state that has continued to fuel Trump's false election fraud claims.

"That is an actual threat to democracy and it points up the core problem which is we're not really very serious about democracy if we're using electronic voting machines," Carlson said.

A Fox News Media spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Wilfredo Lee/AP, Greg Hauenstein/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

The Club for Growth, a leading conservative campaign group, will host almost all the top 2024 Republican prospects for president at a donor retreat in South Florida this weekend, except Donald Trump, according to a Republican familiar with the plans.

Newly minted candidates Nikki Haley, the former U.N. ambassador, and Vivek Ramaswamy, the pharmaceutical magnate turned conservative influencer, will headline the meeting. Top Republicans who have not declared their candidacies but are seriously eyeing bids  including making all the moves of a shadow campaign  are also expected to attend the event, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu.

The only declared candidate not attending is former President Donald Trump. Trump, who helped spark the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection with his 2020 election lies and is widely blamed for the GOPs poor showing in the 2022 midterms, was not invited to the donor retreat, the Republican source told Yahoo News. The retreat is being held in Palm Beach, where Trump lives at his Mar-a-Lago estate.

The Club for Growth is a long-running conservative group that has played key roles in funneling donor dollars to hard-right candidates. The group, led by former Indiana congressman David McIntosh, has had an off-and-on relationship with Trump.

Former President Donald Trump in East Palestine, Ohio, on Feb. 22, following the recent derailment of a train carrying hazardous waste. (Alan Freed/Reuters)

In 2022, the group helped Trump select prospects for key Senate races, including Ted Budd, who ended up winning an open North Carolina Senate seat. But the two split over the Ohio Senate primary, and the relationship turned sour again when Trump reportedly told McIntosh, Go f*** yourself.

Trump slammed the organization over the snub on his social media platform earlier this month, calling the group an assemblage of political misfits, globalists, and losers.

Yahoo News reached out to a spokesperson for Trump for comment.

The groups annual donor retreat comes as the 2024 field is fast taking shape for Republicans. DeSantis, who remains the top contender against Trump should he jump in, hosted Republican donors  including a number of former Trump donors  at a retreat this past weekend.

Trump, who has been slowly getting out on the campaign trail since launching his third White House bid in November, is set to headline the latest Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington later this week.
UK EU

As Westminster awaits details of the latest Brexit deal, splits over how to respond are emerging among Tory Eurosceptics.

Some ardent Brexiteers are willing to accept the agreement Rishi Sunak has reached with Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president.

They say the benefits of the deal to trade in Northern Ireland are much more important than any residual role for European courts.

A second group say they will not be able to support the deal if the Democratic Unionist Party refuses to back it. So far, the DUP has been silent  but it has warned it will not support anything that retains powers for EU judges.

Most prominent in this camp is Lord Howard, the former Conservative leader, who wrote in The Telegraph that he believes Tory MPs should back the deal with the commission even if it is rejected by the DUP and contains some limited role for the European Court of Justice.

The peer, who was home secretary under John Major, said it would ease the problems which are causing so much frustration in Northern Ireland, remove one of the main obstacles to an improved relationship with the EU and help to make Brexit the success we all want it to be.

Lord Howard, the former Conservative leader, said Tory MPs should back the deal even if it is rejected by the DUP - Dominic Lipinski/PA

David Davis, a former Brexit secretary, said his instinct was to back the agreement, adding: Sunak is working hard to win Brexit supporters over. Ive had a call from him. If he needs Labour support [to get a deal through Parliament], it might be mildly embarrassing, but nothing more.

Martin Vickers, another Tory MP said: I was a staunch Brexit supporter, but we have to move on. On the basis of the outline [of the deal], I see no problem with it. We should rally round the Prime Minister.

It appears that Steve Baker, a leading Eurosceptic in government, agrees. He gave photographers the thumbs up when he left Downing Street on Sunday.

Others however say there is no point in Tory MPs accepting a deal  even if it is a good one  unless the DUP does the same. They say that even though they personally would support it, they cannot do if Unionists in Northern Ireland do not.

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On Monday, Jacob Rees-Mogg, a former Cabinet minister, said the devil is in the detail, but said the DUP would only rejoin the Executive in Northern Ireland if it is happy with the deal.

From what I have heard, he [Rishi Sunak] has done very well, but I am not sure that he has achieved the objective of getting the DUP back into power-sharing which is the fundamental point of it, he said.

Jacob Rees-Mogg, the former Cabinet minister, says the devil is in the detail - Paul Grover for the Telegraph

He is joined in this camp by Sir Iain Duncan Smith, a former Tory leader, who said: What isnt happening is that there is literally no change to the fact that Northern Ireland is going to be forced to be under the ECJ [European Court of Justice] and EU law and regulations. I dont see how the DUP can come into power-sharing."

Priti Patel, a former home secretary, said: Its not about green and red lanes  its about, fundamentally, the efficacy and integrity of the UK in ensuring Northern Ireland is absolutely free of EU law and EU regulations.

Mark Francois, the chairman of the hardline European Research Group, said it wanted EU law expunged from Northern Ireland.
Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones posted photos on his Twitter Monday of damage in Madison Township, which is in Butler County, west of Middletown.

The National Weather Service says a tornado touched down in the area of northeastern Butler County.

The tornado was confirmed by radar around 2:40 p.m., a meteorologist with the service said.

Tornado debris was found around northeastern Butler County, but meteorologists haven't pinned exactly where it touched down yet, as they are still gathering information about storm damage locations.

In a tweet, Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones said dispatchers received several calls from Madison Township reporting property damage. Madison Township is west of Middletown.

The Butler County Sheriffs Office Emergency Response Services (ERS) members responded to Madison Township to assist those affected by the storm today. Earlier today tornado sirens were activated and reports of damaging winds causing structural damage to homes were called in. pic.twitter.com/iAXqwO5enR  Richard K. Jones (@butlersheriff) February 27, 2023

Tornado warnings were issued for Butler, Warren and Montgomery counties in Ohio, and Franklin, Ripley and Dearborn counties in southeastern Indiana. So far, only one tornado has been confirmed.

The National Weather Service said behind the storms, gusts of up to 40 to 50 mph were expected in most areas. At one point, more than 3,000 Duke Energy customers in the region were without power.

A wind advisory remains in effect until 10 p.m. Monday. Breezy conditions will continue areawide overnight and fade off into the morning.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Tornado warning issued in Butler County as storm front rolls in
TPG Telecom (ASX:TPG) Full Year 2022 Results

Key Financial Results

Revenue: AU$5.85b (up 9.9% from FY 2021).

Net income: AU$513.0m (up 366% from FY 2021).

Profit margin: 8.8% (up from 2.1% in FY 2021). The increase in margin was driven by higher revenue.

EPS: AU$0.28 (up from AU$0.059 in FY 2021).

All figures shown in the chart above are for the trailing 12 month (TTM) period

TPG Telecom Earnings Insights

Looking ahead, revenue is forecast to stay flat during the next 3 years compared to a 3.6% growth forecast for the Telecom industry in Australia.

Performance of the Australian Telecom industry.

The company's shares are up 7.1% from a week ago.

Risk Analysis

It's necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with TPG Telecom (at least 1 which is significant), and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

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.

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Tracy Moore shares body-positive reminder not to let insecurities get in the way of joy via Instagram/ @thetracymoore

Tracy Moore isn't letting body image issues "cut into" her vacation.

Over the weekend, the Canadian TV host, 47, took to Instagram with to share a video from her Mexican vacation  and paired it with a powerful message about self-acceptance.

In on-screen text placed over a montage of Moore candidly enjoying her holiday alongside her 12-year-old daughter, Eva, she wrote: "POV: Your body is always ready for vacation."

The "Cityline" host included a caption, explaining that she didn't prepare her body for vacation or allow her image to get in the way of "joy."

"I didnt get my body ready for vacation because my body is always ready for vacation. I didnt find figure-flattering bikinis because my figure is always flattering," she penned. "I didnt hesitate to put on a bikini and flail in the waves because any hesitation would cut into my joy."

"Your body is ready. Your suit is perfect. Go put it on and have fun," the mom-of-two concluded.

In the comments, fans applauded Moore for the inspiring reminder.

"Love this so much, Tracy!" an Instagram user wrote, while another added, "Louder louder louder," alongside a clapping emoji.

"Love this so much! Thank you for sharing. Living in the moment with your family and experiencing joy is far more important than what your body looks like. But at any rate, you look absolutely stunning in all of your bikinis!" a fan commented.

One person chimed in: "Love this. Thank you for being you; raw and authentic."

"I love all of this! You look spectacular, T. I smiled the whole time watching this video," another shared.

On Valentine's Day, Moore shared another Instagram video enjoying time with her daughter Eva, her 15-year-old son, Sid, and her husband, Lionel Perron.

"A beautiful day with my loves," she captioned the post. "Arguing over our favourite love songs (theres a generational gap for sure), blind taste tests (Sid gives deep-fried pickles a [thumbs down]), cards, heart-shaped pizza, chocolate and just goodness."

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"I hope you know love follows you wherever you go," she continued. "And the best love of all is clearly the love you have for yourself."

Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
Washington  Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise trip to Ukraine to underscore the U.S. commitment to backing Kyiv as the war with Russia enters its second year, meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy one week after President Biden did the same.

Yellen is visiting the country "to discuss critical economic assistance and our efforts to hold Russia accountable for their illegal and brutal war," Treasury Department spokesperson Lily Adams tweeted, along with a photo of Yellen at a train station.

The Treasury Department is responsible for imposing international sanctions against Russian individuals and entities, as well as delivering economic aid to the country, to the tune of $14 billion since the war began. The Treasury Department said Yellen was announcing the recent transfer of $1.25 billion in economic and budgetary aid while in Kyiv.

Yellen and other U.S. officials met with Zelenskyy and his top aides, with Zelenskyy posting a video to his Telegram channel showing him welcoming the secretary and thanking her for her support.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meets with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in Kyiv on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. / Credit: Ukrainian Presidential Press Service via Reuters

"I'm in Kyiv to reaffirm our unwavering support of the Ukrainian people," Yellen wrote in an op-ed in the New York Times coinciding with her visit. "Mr. Putin is counting on our global coalition's resolve to wane, which he thinks will give him the upper hand in the war. But he is wrong. As President Biden said here last week, America will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes."

In her op-ed, Yellen explained that economic aid is not only vital for security assistance, but to help meet the basic needs of the Ukrainian people. That includes helping people who have had to flee their homes, and providing housing and utility subsidies.

"We cannot allow Ukraine to lose the war for economic reasons when it has shown an ability to succeed on the battlefield," Yellen wrote. "Ukraine's military resistance depends on a government that can function effectively, as well as a stable economy that can help finance defense efforts over the long term. By fortifying the 'home front,' our economic assistance is helping make possible Ukraine's stalwart frontline defense against Russia."

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A Treasury Department official said planning has quietly been underway for the trip for weeks, following an invitation from Ukrainian Prime Minister Shmyhal. The secretary traveled into Kyiv with a small group of senior aides on an overnight train. Yellen and top Treasury officials viewed the trip as an opportunity to build on Mr. Biden's visit last week and as a chance to reaffirm the United States' commitment to Ukraine.

Last week during his surprise trip, Mr. Biden walked the streets of Kyiv with Zelenskyy before delivering a speech in Poland. The Biden administration last week announced additional sanctions against Russia and a new round of aid to the country.

"One year ago, the world was bracing for the fall of Kyiv. Well, I've just come from a visit to Kyiv, and I can report, Kyiv stands strong. Kyiv stands proud. It stands tall. And most important, it stands free," Mr. Biden said last week to applause from 30,000 onlookers waving Polish, U.S. and Ukrainian flags in front of the Royal Castle in Warsaw.

Sarah Ewall-Wice contributed to this report.

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In late February, the Oleato line made its debut in Starbucks' Italy locations. Phoebe Hunt

Starbucks' new Oleato line features three olive oil-infused coffee beverages.

The drinks debuted in Italy in February and arrived to select US locations in March.

I'd order the iced drinks again, but I didn't like the taste of olive oil in my hot latte.

I tried Starbucks' new line of olive oil-infused coffee, which arrives in the US in March.

Three beverages make up the core Oleato collection. Phoebe Hunt

Starbucks launched a new line of olive oil-infused coffee drinks across its 20 Italian branches in February and brought the products to select US locations in March.

The Oleato collection has three core offerings: the caffe latte, the Golden Foam cold brew, and the iced shaken espresso. Each one contains a spoonful of Partanna, an Italian brand of extra-virgin olive oil.

Howard Schultz, Starbucks' interim chief executive officer, got the idea for the products after a trip to Sicily. There, he said he partook in the Mediterranean custom of enjoying a spoonful of extra-virgin olive oil daily and wondered what it would be like to try it with his coffee.

The company plans to introduce the Oleato line to dozens of stores in the US. The first ones to carry the line will be Starbucks Reserve Roasteries in Chicago, Seattle, and New York starting Thursday.

I tried the innovative drinks the day they launched at a Starbucks location in Florence.

At the store I visited, the Oleato drinks weren't available until the day after the official release.

I went to the Starbucks in the new underground shopping mall at the Santa Maria Novella subway station. Phoebe Hunt

On the morning of the Oleato launch, I arrived at 9 a.m., eager to try the new beverages.

Unfortunately, the baristas told me I'd have to come back the next day to try the drinks due to some logistical delays.

The next day, the same Starbucks was filled with signs and drink samples advertising the Oleato line.

One of the baristas was wearing an Oleato apron and handing out tastings. Phoebe Hunt

I went back the following day with my Starbucks-loving friend in tow. Sure enough, the store's signage had changed overnight.

The employees were giving out samples of green-tinted Oleato coffees, and the store's large posters and window displays seemed to successfully draw in curious shoppers and commuters.

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We ordered all new three drinks.

I tried all three of the core drinks, and the iced shaken espresso was my favorite. Phoebe Hunt

When it was time to order, we got the Golden Foam cold brew, the iced shaken espresso, and the caffe latte.

The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Milan also released an iced cortado, a Golden Foam espresso martini, and an Oleato Deconstructed as part of the company's Reserve Oleato line.

These beverages aren't available at all locations.

First up was the hot, milky caffe latte, which ended up being my least favorite of the drinks.

The Oleato caffe latte didn't measure up to the iced drinks. Phoebe Hunt

As the barista prepared my Oleato caffe latte, my friend and I watched them steam green olive oil with oat milk and infuse it into a cup of Starbucks' blonde espresso roast.

Before I took the first sip, I could smell the extra-virgin olive oil. Its bitter, slightly savory flavor was immediately evident.

Starbucks describes the caffe latte as a "velvety smooth, deliciously lush latte." Though the olive oil certainly added richness to the drink, I still prefer a standard latte's flavor and texture.

The first sip was interesting, but it tasted cloying and heavy after a few more. Also, I didn't think a 16-ounce grande was worth 5.50 euros, or about $5.83, especially considering that most lattes in Florence cost around 2 euros.

Next, I tried the iced shaken espresso, which came in a large plastic cup with a paper straw.

The Oleato iced shaken espresso ended up tasting the most delicious. Phoebe Hunt

The chilled beverage had a spoonful of olive oil, just like the caffe latte, as well as a tasty hazelnut syrup. Instead of steaming the olive oil with the oat milk, the barista blended it at high speed before mixing it with the coffee and hazelnut syrup over ice cubes.

Although our barista served the drink with a straw, they recommended tasting it first without one to really experience the olive-oil foam.

The drink, which cost 5.50 euros, was delicious. The olive-oil flavor was still very strong, but the hazelnut syrup gave the beverage a subtle sweetness, too.

For Starbucks customers accustomed to drinking Italian coffee, the iced shaken espresso would probably be a better choice than the caffe latte since it's more unique. The hazelnut syrup is also bound to make it popular with those with a sweet tooth.

Finally, I tried the Golden Foam cold brew, the most expensive of the three drinks.

The foam sat at the top, creating a nice layer over the cold brew. Phoebe Hunt

The barista blended olive oil and vanilla-sweet-cream foam at a high speed before pouring the thick, slightly green foam over ice cubes and some hot espresso.

The main difference between this beverage and the iced shaken espresso was the foam's thickness. This drink's foam was so rich and dense that I could practically eat it with a spoon.

Again, it was nice to try it without a straw to get the olive oil's full creamy effect, but the straw was helpful to get to the coffee.

The regularly sized Golden Foam cold brew was 6.50 euros, a euro more than I paid for the other two beverages.

I think it's best to drink the iced beverages quickly.

The olive oil started to separate from the other ingredients, forming a nasty layer on top. Phoebe Hunt

The first sips of both iced drinks were pleasant and complex, and they'll probably go down easily for iced-coffee enthusiasts.

But in less than 10 minutes, the olive oil started to separate from the rest of the ingredients, causing an unappetizing oil barrier on top and around the edge of the cup.

I'd try the iced drinks again but don't plan on ordering another caffe latte.

The Oleato Iced Shaken Espresso was the most delicious. Phoebe Hunt

I'd probably try the Oleato iced shaken espresso again and make sure to drink it quickly before the oil has time to separate. But I would definitely pass on the caffe latte.

Read the original article on Insider
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Hanacure, a wildly popular at-home South Korean facial, is taking the beauty world by storm.

Celebs (from Molly Sims to Drew Barrymore and beyond) swear by it: The all-in-one treatment claims to address multiple signs of agingfrom wrinkles to hyperpigmentation to loss of elasticity.

But what makes it work? Four different peptides and several botanical extractssuch as green tea, honeysuckle, and lotus leaf extract. Scroll down to learn more.

Imagine if all the serums, creams, and treatments in your medicine cabinet could be bottled up into a single, all-powerful anti-aging productdream scenario, right? Well, that's essentially the claim behind Hanacure, a new at-home facial from South Korea that's so popular, people can barely get their hands on it (myself included). (There's also a less expensive starter kit available.)

The all-in-one treatment claims to address multiple signs of agingfrom wrinkles to hyperpigmentation to loss of elasticitywith the added benefit of skin routines. One scroll through their addictive Instagram testimonial page makes it clear that the #HanacureEffect is no joke. Heres everything you need to know about K-Beautys newest darling.

Shop Now The Hanacure Starter Facial Set $110.00 hanacure.com

What is it?

To put it simply, the All-In-One Facial is a gel mask. Inspired by the Lotus flower, a symbol or rebirth and purity in many Asian cultures, the product was designed to have renewing and rejuvenating effects. After developing it for three years, the company's founders launched Hanacure in January of 2017 with the promise that with one use a week for four weeks you'd see visible, age-reversing results.

How does it work?

So how can this mask address multiple skin concerns at once in just thirty minutes? While the brand keeps their formula private, I do know it contains four different peptides (known for their skin firming abilities) and several botanical extracts including green tea, honeysuckle, and of course lotus leaf extract.

Story continues

Shop Now The Hanacure All-In-One Facial Set $110.00 hanacure.com

The real secret, though, lies in the patented two-step system, which includes a lifting serum and a gelling solution. When they are mixed together pre-application, they create what the company calls their "purifying compound" designed to help soothe irritation, brighten, and moisturize skin.

As it is applied, the carbon dioxide in the air fuses into the formula, which they've dubbed the "OctoLift" technology. The reaction causes the mask to solidify onto skin, creating an intense tightening effect, which theoretically pulls grime and toxins out of pores.

Is it really worth the hype?

Well, the product has managed to sell out every month since its debut, and it's also amassed tons of loyal followersfrom actresses and models to everyday women. Even though taking a selfie with it on is seriously freaky-looking, A-listers cant get enough of it:

I tried it... Here's what happened.

Between Betty Drapers endorsement and scrolling through the before and afters (continuously wondering how it could really be the same person in the photos), I knew I had to try Hanacure for myself. When it finally arrived in the mail, the package included four sets of the two-step solution, plus a small brush for application. (The starter kit, meanwhile, includes just one single-use application.)

Shop Now Hanacure All-In-One Facial Set $110.00 hanacure.com

Once I thoroughly washed and dried my face, it was time to mix up the formula. I peeled back the foil on the gelling solution package (making sure I didnt take it all the way off) then poured in the lifting serum. I then re-covered the solution with the foil and vigorously shook the container as instructed for 20 seconds. The next step was to slather an even layer all over my face, neck, and hands (assiduously avoiding my eyes and lips) with the little brush.

The gel consistency went on clear, and after I was done, I looked more or less like a glazed donutshiny and glistening. Per the instructions, I was warned that within ten minutes of applying it Id experience a tingling and pulling sensation.

Sure enough, the formula started to firm up on my skin. While I knew there would be tightening, I hadnt expected this much intensity from an at-home mask. I'd anticipated something along the lines of a traditional peel-off mask or a clay maskrestrictive but not immobilizing. Instead, the Hanacure literally froze my entire face in place, making it next to impossible to talk, much less finish my Sunday night glass of vino.

My husband, typically unfazed by my beauty experiments, watched in horror as I slowly transformed into one of the Stone Men on Game of Thrones. My complexion even began to crack like Grayscale. Despite looking hideous, I couldnt stop checking myself out in the mirror: I was absolutely fascinated by what was happening on my face.

After what seemed like forever (read: just the 30 minutes recommended for the mask to do its work) my wait was over. I went back to the bathroom and slowly washed the gel mask off, enjoying immensely the ability to move my face again. It wasn't painful and it pulled off easily.

So, is it worth the price?

My answer is yes. Post-treatment, my complexion had never looked better: My cheeks and jaw seemed firmer, my skin tone more even, and my everything was softer to the touch. (If you're not entirely convinced, there's a $29 starter kit you can test out before you commit.) Its safe to say Ive joined the Hanacure bandwagon for goodI just wish I had discovered it sooner.

You can purchase the full kit here.



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English author Ian Fleming (1908 - 1964) in his study with a copy of 'For Your Eyes Only', one of the series of James Bond novels that he wrote.

English author Ian Fleming (1908 - 1964) in his study with a copy of 'For Your Eyes Only', one of the series of James Bond novels that he wrote. Credit - Evening StandardGetty Images

The James Bond literary franchise, written from 1953 to 1966, will receive a sensitivity review ahead of a reissue in April of the 14 novels, which will mark 70 years since Casino Royale, the debut book, was published.

Ian Fleming Publications Ltdthe company that retains literary rights to the series about 007, the iconic British secret service agentcommissioned the review that will see some racially offensive language and outdated stereotypes removed from the works written by the companys namesake. Racial slurs toward Black people will be removed but depictions of other ethnic minorities, such as a Korean character called Oddjob in Goldfinger, the seventh book, will remain.

According to The Telegraph, the new editions will be published alongside an accompanying disclaimer that reads: This book was written at a time when terms and attitudes which might be considered offensive by modern readers were commonplace. This disclaimer mirrors those put in place by streaming services like Disney+, which added warnings before content with racist depictions such as The Jungle Book.

A number of updates have been made in this edition, while keeping as close as possible to the original text and the period in which it is set, it adds. But critics say that despite the proposed refresh for contemporary readers, many references to gendered violence and sexual assault will remain in the texts.

(Ian Fleming Publications did not immediately respond to a request for comment.)

The amendments come fresh off the heels of Puffin Books announcement that they will modify Roald Dahls childrens books so they continue to be enjoyed by all children today. The changes entail removing language related to race, gender, weight, and mental health that todays readers deem offensive. The news invited a wealth of backlash from those who view such modifications as censorship.

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As the publishing industry faces increased scrutiny for revising texts, heres what to know about changes to the James Bond novels.

What racist content has been removed from Flemings novels?

According to The Telegraph, most of the revisions pertain to the way Black people are described. One such instance is Bonds assertion that suspected African criminals are pretty law-abiding chaps I should have thought, except when theyve drunk too much, which has now been shortened to pretty law-abiding chaps I should have thought.

Another passage that has been completely removed sees Bond witnessing a couple arguing in Harlem in New York City. Fleming wrote that the man and woman spoke in an accent that was straight Harlem-Deep South with a lot of New York thrown in.

The novels were also littered with well known racial slurs for Black people, which have been changed in the new editions to black person or black man where relevant.

Overall, racial descriptors have been significantly reduced. In Dr. No, the sixth Bond novel, characters whose race was once identifiable have now become gangsters, while in Goldfinger, Black servicemen in a Second World War logistics unit, the Red Ball Express, have simply become ex-drivers.

What sexist content has stayed in the books?

While some readers may welcome the removal of racial slurs and stereotypes, the franchise also has a reputation for outdated, one-dimensional gender roles, as well as female characters with sexual innuendos for names.

References to the sweet tang of rape, blithering women, and failing to do a mans work will reportedly not be removed from the books. Additionally, homophobic statements including the idea that homosexuality is a stubborn disability will reportedly remain.

This selective approach to updating the text is deliberate, says Australian author Clementine Ford, who has written about the sexism behind on-screen Bond girls, of which there have been over 75 so far. It seems to me that the reason a sensitivity edit is being sought for racially charged language is not just to retroactively erase the racism of the Bond universe, but to ensure Bond remains both admirable and popular in a modern climate, Ford tells TIME.

Given that, one has to ask why sexism and the dehumanization of women is not considered anathema to Bonds appeal, but central to it, Ford adds.

The sexism of the James Bond character

Bond girls, an umbrella term given to the love interests of the fictional British spy, were typically portrayed in movies by young female actors clad in bikinis or dramatic evening gowns and are typically seductresses.

While these roles have historically come with sassy or witty linesand the women are villains as often as they are heroesthey are ultimately plot devices to be killed off at a moments notice, Ford wrote in a 2015 essay. They are beautiful, intelligent, often duplicitousand all highly discardable, she added.

Fords essay also said that the efforts of contemporary directors, such as Sam Mendes, have brought the Bond girl into the 21st century by casting age appropriate women, such as a then 51-year-old Monica Bellucci in Spectre (2015) opposite Daniel Craig, who is four years her senior. But as TIMEs Eliana Dockterman wrote when Craig exited the franchise in 2021, The character has a history of raping, objectifying, and using women. And Bond movies often glamorized that behavior. The character taught generations of men that misogyny was cool.

Fords comments echo that sentiment. Consent is an absent concept in Bonds world, but somehow audiences, and women in particular, are expected to embrace this as part of his cultural appeal, she says. Are we to have a Bond who rails against the scourge of white supremacy yet somehow overlooks the impact misogyny has on women?
Following news reports last Friday that the Chinese government intervened in the 2021 Canadian federal election in favor of Justin Trudeau, the prime minister is seeking to divert attention away from Beijings partisan preference.

Its not about one party versus another, Trudeau said amid accusations that the Conservative Party was attempting to politicize claims of Chinese election meddling.

A Trudeau ally joined in citing an American parallel to lingering questions about election integrity.

This is the same Trump-type tactics to question election results moving forward, Jennifer OConnell, the parliamentary secretary to the minister of intergovernmental affairs, stated.

Canadian intelligence agencies have determined that Chinese diplomats made undeclared donations to Canadian political campaigns and recruited local business owners to hire international students to assign them to volunteer in electoral campaigns on a full-time basis, the Globe & Mail reported last week.

Most important, the intelligence reports show that Beijing was determined that the Conservatives did not win. China employed disinformation campaigns and proxies connected to Chinese-Canadian organizations in Vancouver and the GTA [Greater Toronto Area], which have large mainland Chinese immigrant communities, to voice opposition to the Conservatives and favour the Trudeau Liberals,journalists Robert Fife and Steven Chase wrote.

The foreign government disseminated messages through Chinese-language media such as: The Liberal Party of Canada is becoming the only party that the PRC [Peoples Republic of China] can support.

Documents obtained by the duo from the Canadians Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), the countrys equivalent to the CIA, revealed that the Chinese Community Party was pressuring its consulates to create strategies to leverage politically [active] Chinese community members and associations within Canadian society.

The objective of Chinas election meddling was to build support for Chinas plans to annex Taiwan as well as downplay ongoing human-rights abuses in Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

Story continues

CSIS sources also found that Vancouvers previous consul-general Tong Xiaoling and successor, Wang Jin, made explicit attempts to sway Chinese-Canadian organizations to vote for the Liberal Party.

Last Friday, another Canadian outlet also revealed three anonymous CSIS sources found that Han Dong, a new Liberal member of parliament (MP), was likely a member of a broader Chinese foreign interference network. Dong was chosen to succeed the incumbent, MP Geng Tan, who had reportedly disappointed the Chinese consulate in Toronto.

Despite being alerted in September 2022 to the allegations, Trudeau did nothing about the matter.

Former associates of Trudeau are now demanding the leader create a public inquiry to settle the matter.

The radical changes in geopolitics and technological advancements of the past several years mean were in a different, more dangerous world where many foreign actors have an interest in harming democratic institutions and the capacity to do it, Trudeaus former principal secretary told the Globe & Mail on Sunday.

However, Trudeau appears content with the current investigation led by the House of Commons Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, shooting down calls for a public inquiry.

On a potentially-related note, the Trudeau administration announced that TikTok, the Chinese social-media application, would be removed from all federal government devices on Tuesday.

More from National Review
Attorneys for Donald Trump are insisting that comments made by the foreperson of a grand jury impanelled in Fulton County, Georgia to hear evidence of crimes committed by Donald Trump and his allies in the wake of the 2020 election have irreversably tainted the case against him.

Its the latest effort by Mr Trumps circle of allies to denigrate the integrity of those charged with investigating the multiple claims of wrongdoing that they face, and comes as cable news talking heads fretted over the weekend about whether Emily Kohrs had endangered the potential prosecution of Mr Trump or his advisers with remarks to several news outlets.

Ms Kohrs spoke to The New York Times, the Associated Press, CNN and other outlets over the past week as her service to the grand jury concluded and its report was delivered to Fulton County prosecutors. According to Ms Kohrs, the list of recommended indictments is not short.

It was revelations like that  as well as veiled comments about witnesses the panel did not find especially credible  which landed Ms Kohrs squarely in the sights of Donald Trump and his attorneys following condemnations of her actions by some including CNNs Anderson Cooper.

"We absolutely do not believe that our client did anything wrong, and if any indictments were to come down, those are faulty indictments," Mr Trumps attorney Jennifer Little told CBS News on Sunday.

Another member of Mr Trumps legal team, Drew Findling, insisted that his colleagues feel this process has been compromised by Ms Kohrss comments.

Their remarks essentially were refined versions of the Truth Social rantings that their client, the twice-impeached former president, has posted since Ms Kohrss media tour began.

[A]n extremely energetic young woman, the (get this!) foreperson of the Racist D.A.s Special Grand Jury, [is] going around and doing a Media Tour revealing, incredibly, the Grand Jurys inner workings & thoughts. This is not JUSTICE, this is an illegal Kangaroo Court, Mr Trump wrote on 22 February.

Story continues

But despite the consternations of Mr Trumps team and others in the media, Ms Kohrss comments likely do not jeopardise any effort by prosecutors to go against Donald Trump or his allies, experts told The Independent.

In light of the publicity Mr Trump, or any politician for that matter, attracts generally, this woman's statements are a drop in the bucket, actually the ocean, Steve Plafker, a former deputy district attorney for Los Angeles County, explained: I do not see any chance of prejudice arising from them.

He added that there was little chance of Mr Honigs fears of Mr Trumps attorneys filing successfully for potential charges to be dismissed.

Even if I am wrong, there is no chance of their leading to a mistrial. Any danger of prejudice resulting from pre-trial publicity is handled at the time of jury selection. Mistrials result from problems arising during trial, Mr Plafker said. If this woman had been exercising good judgment, she would have gone home and kept her mouth shut, but I doubt that anything she said would make a prosecutor's job any more difficult than it already is.
Donald Trump was so furious at Jimmy Kimmels mockery of him, he wanted to censor the late night show host after just one year into his presidency, according to a report.

The former president directed his White House staff to call one of Disneys top executives to pressure Kimmel to dial back on anti-Tump humour in 2018, two former Trump administration officials told the Rolling Stones.

The severity of Mr Trumps fury was conveyed in at least two separate phone calls to executives of Disney, owner of ABC which airs Jimmy Kimmel Live!, it said.

A former Trump official said Mr Trump felt the talk show host had been very dishonest and doing things that [Trump] would have once sued over in his jokes about him.

I do not know to who[m], but it happened. Nobody thought it was going to change anything but DJT was focused on it so we had to do somethingIt was doing something, mostly, to say to [Trump], Hey, we did this, another official said.

The Trump White House staff reached out to former Disney top lobbyist Richard Bates, who passed away in December 2020.

Mr Trump who was impeached for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress has announced his campaign for a second presidential term in 2024. Despite his impeachment, a string of lawsuits and investigations, Mr Trump has said he is entitled to a revenge tour if he wins but he would not do that.

It was not the first time it has emerged that Mr Trump ordered a crackdown on those criticising him. In 2018, Ajit Pai, former chair of the Federal Communications Commission, said the agency was investigating a joke made about Mr Trump and Vladimir Putins relations by Late Show host Stephen Colbert. The FCC eventually declined to move forward with the case.
Donald Trump attempted to have popular late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel silenced during his presidency by having his White House staff call ABC owner Disney to demand an end to his jokes at the administrations expense, according to Rolling Stone.

A former Trump official told the magazine that that severity of Mr Trumps fury was conveyed in at least two separate phone calls to executives because the commander-in-chief felt the comedian had been very dishonest and [was] doing things that he would have once sued over.

I do not know to who, but it happened, the unnamed ex-aide said. Nobody thought it was going to change anything but DJT was focused on it so we had to do something It was doing something, mostly, to say to him, Hey, we did this.

Meanwhile, Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has told CNN that a loyalty pledge might become a requirement for candidates taking part in the partys presidential debates, which would compel the likes of Mr Trump to support the eventual winner if he himself is not nominated, a bid to avoid the damaging name-calling, animosity and ill-feeling that has toxified previous head-to-heads.

Key Points

Trump tried to silence Jimmy Kimmel over mockery

GOP to introduce loyalty pledge for presidential candidates

Trump ridiculed over knock heads Ukraine peace plan

Ex-president accused of shell game with classified documents

Trump calls for Zuckerberg to be prosecuted and screams: Biden is leading us into oblivion!!!

Trump takes aim at Fulton County prosecutors

14:48 , John Bowden

After his attorneys told Axios that they dont accept the validity of Fulton Countys investigation into their boss, Donald Trump took aim at the Georgia prosecutors investigating his effort to change the lawful results of the 2020 election.

In a Truth Social post on Monday, the ex-president accused Georgia law enforcement of trying to steal a second presidential election as he continues his efforts to denigrate trust in Americas election systems, court systems, and civil servants.

Story continues

GOP leaders, stung by losses, plan to wade into Senate races

14:31 , John Bowden

Angry over a wave of losses experienced by pro-Trump candidates in the last election cycle, Republican leadership isnt willing to let Donald Trump steer the ship anymore  at least not unopposed.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee intends to wade into party primaries in key states, providing resources to its preferred candidates in a bid to produce nominees who are more palatable to general election voters.

Follow this story in The Independent:

GOP leaders, stung by losses, plan to wade into Senate races

Ron DeSantis moves toward Republican presidential bid on his own terms

13:45 , Joe Sommerlad

Republican presidential contenders typically fight for prime speaking slots at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). But as activists gather in suburban Washington this week, Florida governor Ron DeSantis will be courting donors more than a thousand miles away in Texas and California.

The apparent CPAC snub is nothing new for Mr DeSantis, who has emerged in the early phase of the 2024 presidential election as a leading contender for the GOP nomination even as he ignores many conventions of modern politics.

Mr DeSantis is a regular voice in conservative cultural fights on cable television but often avoids gatherings of fellow Republican governors and party leaders, who are quick to complain in private about his go-it-alone approach.

He is the only top-tier presidential prospect yet to court voters in Iowa, New Hampshire or South Carolina, the states hosting the GOPs opening presidential primary contests. And he is often at odds with the press, refusing even to notify local media of last weeks rare three-state tour with law enforcement.

Heres a little more on his singular approach to courting national political popularity.

DeSantis moves toward GOP presidential bid on his own terms

Marjorie Taylor Greene mocked for saying 6bn migrants have crossed US border under Biden

13:15 , Joe Sommerlad

MAGA Republican congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene wildly inflated the number of migrants she alleges have illegally crossed the US border from Mexico during Joe Bidens time in the Oval Office during a tweet over the weekend, a statement for which she was roundly and rightly ridiculed.

$113 Billion has been appropriated to Ukraine in just 1 yr, she declared. Trumps wall would have only cost $22 billion, but Congress refused to fund it. 6 Billion people illegally crossed our border since Biden took office, but Ukraines border is the only border that matters to Washington.

The population of the entire world is only 8bn, lest we forget, and just 332m live in the US.

Graig Graziosi rounds up the ridicule.

Marjorie Taylor Greene mocked for saying 6 billion crossed US border

Bryan Cranston says Trump's Make America Great Again slogan is racist

12:45 , Joe Sommerlad

The Breaking Bad star sat down with veteran anchor Chris Wallace for his CNN interview show over the weekend to offer an interesting point of view about the MAGA movement and its assumptions, arguing that it intentionally sidelines the African American experience.

.@BryanCranston explains to Chris Wallace why MAGA is a racist remark. (So well done, worth a watch.) pic.twitter.com/c3SdlyzFwe  Kaivan Shroff (@KaivanShroff) February 25, 2023

John Bolton says he will run to be next US president to stop Trump

12:15 , Joe Sommerlad

Speaking to Camilla Tominey on right-wing GB News, the Republicans hawkish former national security adviser turned enemy John Bolton said he plans to run for the White House in a bid to block Trump, saying it was a very difficult decision" to put his name forward but that he was determined to do so to prevent a belated second Trump term..

"I think its very important that Donald Trump not be the nominee of the Republican Party in 2024, he said.

"I think he can be defeated. Id certainly like to help out in making that happen.

"And if if I think being a candidate myself does show a path to getting the nomination, to winning in November of next year, then, yes, Ill get it."

'It's very important that Donald Trump not be the nominee of the Republican Party in 2024.'



US diplomat John Bolton says Donald Trump shouldn't be the Republican candidate for president, and that he might run for US leadership himself.@AmbJohnBolton | @CamillaTominey pic.twitter.com/HSQPyw52md  GB News (@GBNEWS) February 26, 2023

Trump calls for Zuckerberg to be prosecuted and screams: Biden is leading us into oblivion!!!

11:45 , Joe Sommerlad

Over on Truth Social, Mr Trump has been posting about a Fox story allegedly tying Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg to a $2m donation to the Georgia elections board.

He cheated on the Election(s), the former president raged: The whole system is RIGGED. Why isnt he being prosecuted? The Democrats only know how to cheat. America isnt going to take it much longer!

Clearly having a very normal Sunday evening at home in his rotting mansion, Mr Trump also tweeted, sorry truthed: Crooked Democrat Prosecutors, many of them Racists in Reverse, are trying to steal a second Presidential Election. They did it in 2020, and were not going to let them do it again in 2024. MAGA!!!

All of which came after this beauty: This is the most dangerous time in the history of our Country. World War III is looming, like never before, in the very dark and murky background. Leadership is solely responsible for this unprecedented danger to the USA, and likewise, the World. HOPELESS JOE BIDEN IS LEADING US INTO OBLIVION!!!

Ho boy.

Ex-president accused of shell game with classified documents

11:15 , Joe Sommerlad

Department of Justice (DoJ) investigators are examining whether the actions by Mr Trump and at least one of his long-time aides may have kept a box containing documents with classified markings from being discovered during the search of his Mar-a-Lago residence in Palm Beach, Florida, property by FBI agents on 8 August last year.

According to CNN, the box at issue contained a handful of documents bearing classification markings as well as copies of presidential schedules dating back to Mr Trumps time in the White House.

It was discovered in December after DoJ officials told Mr Trumps attorneys to conduct another search for government-owned records at the twice-impeached ex-presidents property and subsequently turned over to federal authorities.

Citing a person familiar with both the boxs laborious journey between locations connected to the ex-president and the inquiry being overseen by special counsel Jack Smith, CNN said federal investigators suspect Mr Trump played a shell game with classified documents by directing staff to move the box between Mar-a-Lago and a nearby office block rented by Mr Trumps team with federal funds available to him under the Former Presidents Act.

Andrew Feinberg has more.

Trump accused of shell game with classified documents after box moved around

Trump ridiculed over knock heads Ukraine peace plan

10:45 , Joe Sommerlad

If the former president is so sensitive to Jimmy Kimmel jokes, he perhaps ought to try a little harder to avoid presenting comics with such easy material.

Mr Trump is currently being mocked for his ludicrous remarks on the one-year anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine, made in a radio interview with former Fox anchor Glenn Beck.

The saddest part about the war is that this is a war that shouldve never happened, right, okay? the 45th president said.

So now it happened. Now you have to get people in a room. You have to knock heads and you have to get it done.

That would mean saying things to [Vladimir] Putin and saying things to [Volodymyr] Zelensky that theyre not gonna want to hear and getting them into a room and getting it done.

Sure thing Don.

Sheila Flynn has more.

Trump mocked after sharing his plan to end Ukraine war: Knock heads

GOP to introduce loyalty pledge for presidential candidates

10:15 , Joe Sommerlad

Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel has told CNN that a loyalty pledge might become a requirement for candidates taking part in the partys presidential debates, which would compel the likes of Mr Trump to support the eventual winner if he himself is not nominated, a bid to avoid the damaging name-calling, animosity and ill-feeling that has toxified previous head-to-heads.

We havent put the criteria out, but I expect a pledge will be part of it, Ms McDaniel told Dana Bash on Sundays State of the Union, adding: I think theyre all going to sign it.

I think they're all going to sign it.



RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel tells @DanaBashCNN she expects that Trump will sign a pledge to support the Republican nominee even if it's not him. @CNNSotu #CNNSOTU pic.twitter.com/fYI7du8FFX  CNN (@CNN) February 26, 2023

John Bowden has the full story.

GOP chair says party may try to force Trump to back GOP nominee even if its not him

Trump tried to silence Jimmy Kimmel over mockery

09:45 , Joe Sommerlad

Donald Trump attempted to have popular late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel silenced during his presidency by having his White House staff call ABC owner Disney to demand an end to his jokes at the Trumps administrations expense, according to Rolling Stone.

A former Trump official told the magazine that that severity of Mr Trumps fury was conveyed in at least two separate phone calls to executives because the commander-in-chief felt the comedian had been very dishonest and doing things that he would have once sued over.

I do not know to who, but it happened, the unnamed ex-aide said. Nobody thought it was going to change anything but DJT was focused on it so we had to do something It was doing something, mostly, to say to [Trump], Hey, we did this.

Shweta Sharma has more.

Trump tried to get Jimmy Kimmel censored in 2018, report says

09:36 , Joe Sommerlad

Good morning and welcome to The Independents live coverage of US presidential candidate Donald Trump, plotting a return to the White House in 2024.
Former President Donald Trump, left, and Jimmy Kimmel, right, in a composite image. Getty Images

Then-President Donald Trump urged White House staff to complain to Disney about Jimmy Kimmel.

In 2018, Trump's aides called a top Disney executive on at least two occasions, per Rolling Stone.

Trump was frustrated with Kimmel's "very dishonest" monologues and jokes, former officials said.

Then-President Donald Trump was once so annoyed that late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was making fun of him that he ordered White House staff to call a senior Disney executive to try to make it stop.

Rolling Stone was the first to report that Trump directed aides in 2018 to call the late Disney lobbyist Richard Bates on at least two occasions because of his frustrations over gags on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!"

According to several unnamed Trump administration officials, who spoke to Rolling Stone on the condition of anonymity, Trump phoned Disney to "demand action" from the company, which owns ABC, focusing his complaints on Kimmel's "monologues and jabs" about him.

Trump felt that Kimmel had been "very dishonest" and had been saying things that he would have "once sued over," according to a senior unnamed official, per Rolling Stone.

"Nobody thought it was going to change anything but DJT was focused on it so we had to do something," another source told Rolling Stone. "It was doing something, mostly, to say to [Trump], 'Hey, we did this.'"

According to the news outlet, word quickly spread in Washington, DC, about the failed attempt to censure Kimmel, with several Trump officials saying they had heard about it from their contacts at Disney.

Trump's post-presidency office did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

The effort to rein in Kimmel ultimately failed. He continued mocking Trump throughout his presidency, with his monologues still often targeting Trump.

Last week, Kimmel referred to Trump as "a train wreck talking about a train wreck" during an opening speech about the former president's recent visit to East Palestine, Ohio.

Story continues

Another late-night host was also the subject of Trump's ire while he was president.

Stephen Colbert once made a joke about Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and oral sex, which prompted a Federal Communications Commission investigation. Trump responded to the joke by calling Colbert a"no-talent" who says "nothing funny" and uses "filthy language."

Ultimately, the FCC took no action.

Read the original article on Business Insider
President Donald Trump was reportedly so livid over Jimmy Kimmels TV jokes that he ordered White House officials to get the late night host muzzled.

Rolling Stone reported on Sunday that there were at least two phone calls to a top Disney executive to demand action against Kimmel in 2018. Disney is the parent company of ABC, which airs Jimmy Kimmel Live.

One unnamed former senior Trump administration official told the magazine that Trump felt Kimmel was being very dishonest and doing things that [Trump] would have once sued over.

Another unnamed former official told Rolling Stone: Nobody thought it was going to change anything but DJT was focused on it so we had to do somethingIt was doing something, mostly, to say to [Trump], Hey, we did this.

Kimmel said last year that ABC officials at one point asked him to ease off Trump, but he refused.

I just said, Listen, if thats what you want to do, I understand and I dont begrudge you for it, but Im not going to do that, he told the Naked Lunch podcast.

Its not clear if that conversation came as a result of the White House pressure campaign on Disney. ABC left Kimmel alone, and he continues to mock the former president to this day.

Trump, for his part, has long raged at comics making jokes about him, attacking Kimmel, Saturday Night Live, Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart and more.

The Daily Beast reported in 2021 that Trump during his presidency asked the Justice Department to investigate late night comics who made fun of him, and asked advisors if the Federal Communications Commission or courts could stop the jokes.

Theycouldnot.
By Humeyra Pamuk and Timour Azhari

ISTANBUL/ANTAKYA, Turkey (Reuters) - It has been three weeks since Tugce Seren Gul's aunt and grandmother were killed in Antakya when a devastating earthquake struck Turkey's southeast. And yet every night, she waits until 4.17 am in the morning, the exact time that the disaster hit, to try to go to sleep.

"I keep thinking another disaster will strike at that time and just wait for it to pass," said Gul, 28, who managed to run out of her family house with her mother moments before the walls of her house collapsed during the tremors.

After reaching the street barefoot, Gul saw the dead bodies of neighbours killed by falling concrete. She remembers the screams of people trapped in collapsed buildings.

Gul said the horror had put a heavy toll on the mental health of survivors who "lost everything" in the city of Antakya, which was devastated by the quake. She wants to one day seek professional help to address the trauma, but for now establishing a new life for herself and her family is the only priority.

The 7.8 earthquake magnitude earthquake, the most deadly in modern Turkey's history, will have a deep psychological impact, experts and officials say. More than 44,300 people died in the country and over 1.5 million were left homeless in freezing conditions. Millions have lost family members, jobs, life savings and their hopes for the future.

CHILDREN AT RISK

Experts fear children will be hardest hit. The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) said many of the more than 5.4 million children who live across the quake zone were at risk of developing anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

"We know how important learning and routine is for children and their recovery," UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Afshan Khan said, after a visit to Turkey.

"They need to be able to resume their education, and they urgently need psychosocial support to help deal with the trauma they have experienced."

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At a large camp for displaced people next to Hatay Stadium on the outskirts of Antakya, psychosocial support teams have set up small play areas and pitched tents filled with toys. Children sat on multicolored chairs in front of a large portable screen that played cartoons. Some children played hopscotch.

Mehmet Sari, a government psychosocial support worker, said he and others in his team have picked up signs of trauma in kids. "We see that some children can't sleep, others can't eat, others have flashbacks and wet their beds," he told Reuters.

They need long-term support to recover from trauma, he said.

Turkey's Ministry of Family and Social Services said it has dispatched more than 3,700 social workers to support the survivors across the quake zone.

Volunteers with Izmir-based group Sokak Sanatlari Atolyesi dress in Superman and clown costumes and run activities for children living in tents at a shelter in Hatay province.

But a large 6.4 magnitude earthquake last Monday shattered efforts to give the children some feeling of normalcy amid weeks of terrifying after shocks.

A video provided by Erdal Coban, one of the volunteers and the art director of the Sokak Atolyesi, shows the children's cheers and singing turn to screaming.

"Stay calm," one yelled as another held onto a toddler she was carrying.

"CONSTANT, CHRONIC STRESS"

Turkish people had already been under significant pressure, said Ayse Bilge Selcuk, psychologist and a professor at MEF University, due to rising poverty and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now the earthquake has taken it to the next level.

"The stress is chronic and constant and it is now beyond a level that we can cope with," Selcuk said. "For this nation to get back on its feet, we need to find that strength within us and that starts with our psychology," she added.

President Tayyip Erdogan has pledged to rebuild homes within a year but it will still be many months before thousands can leave tents or shipping containers and daily queues for food and move into permanent housing, key to gaining the sense of normalcy and safety they lost.

People look numb, likely a defense mechanism to deal with insurmountable stress, according to Selcuk. Anxiety, helplessness and depression are likely to be common and young people could feel a sense of rage.

Rebuilding efforts should include mental health, Selcuk said, urging the government to provide funding for trained psychologists to be sent to the quake zone and stay there. "Sustainability is key. We shouldn't withdraw our attention three months later," she said.

(This story has been refiled to correct the name of the university in paragraph 19)

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and Timour Azhari; Additional reporting by Birsen Altayli in Istanbul; Editing by Alexandra Hudson and Frank Jack Daniel)
ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday talks with Sweden and Finland over their NATO membership bids would resume on March 9, although he said Sweden had still not fulfilled its obligations under a memorandum signed last year.

Turkey in January cancelled talks with Sweden and Finland on their applications after a Danish far-right political politician burned a copy of the Koran outside the Turkish embassy in Stockholm.

"My colleagues will attend the meeting that will be held on March 9," Cavusoglu told a news conference in Ankara, adding that the meeting would be held in Brussels.

Sweden and Finland applied last year to join the North Atlantic defence alliance after Russia invaded Ukraine, but Sweden in particular has faced unexpected objections from Turkey.

Ankara accuses Stockholm of harbouring what it considers members of terrorist groups.

Sweden, Finland and Turkey signed the memorandum on steps toward Turkish ratification at a NATO summit in Madrid in 2022.

"Unfortunately, we have not seen satisfactory steps from Sweden on the implementation of the Madrid memorandum," Cavusoglu said. "It is not possible for us to say "yes" to Sweden's NATO bid before we see these steps."

The Swedish government plans to formally decide on March 9 on a long-planned proposal to make it illegal to be part of, or to endorse, a terrorist organisation. Stockholm aims for the legislation to enter into force on June 1, though no date has yet been set for a parliamentary vote on the bill.

The United States and other NATO countries are hoping that the two Nordic countries become members of the alliance at a NATO summit due to be held in July 11 in Lithuania's capital Vilnius.

While Ankara has signaled it could approve Finland's application, it has given no assurances that it will give Sweden's bid the green light by then.

A Swedish foreign ministry spokesperson confirmed that talks with Turkey would resume on March 9, saying they would be held at civil-servant level.

Hungary is the only other NATO member not to have ratified the Nordic countries' applications. Its parliament is scheduled to start debating the matter this week. Budapest said on Saturday a vote may take place in the second half of March.

(Reporting by Ezgi Erkoyun and Ece Toksabay; additional reporting by Anna Ringstrom, Editing by Daren Butler, Humeyra Pamuk and Gareth Jones)
Elon Musk has reportedly laid off thousands of Twitter employees since he purchased the company in October. Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Some Twitter staff discovered they'd been laid off when they couldn't access their company laptop or email, The New York Times reported.

Elon Musk reportedly laid off about 200 Twitter employees over the weekend.

Musk told those who survived the layoffs that they are "highly regarded," The Verge reported.

Some Twitter employees found out they had been laid off on Saturday night when they couldn't login to their company emails or laptops, according to a recent report from The New York Times.

The publication said that the next morning, the Twitter employees who had survived the round of cuts used the secure messaging service Signal to ascertain which employees were still at the company.

The layoffs came after the company had gone about a week without access to its internal messaging system, Slack, the Times reported. During previous layoffs staffers had used the messaging system to send farewell messages.

Over 200 employees were terminated as a result of the latest round of layoffs at the social media company, the publication said. The news confirmed previous reporting from Insider's Kali Hays that indicated Elon Musk was set to cut Twitter's headcount to its lowest level in over a decade. Since the billionaire purchased Twitter in October, he has laid off thousands of employees  more than halving the company.

The billionaire had said in November that he wasn't planning any further layoffs. The latest round of cuts impacted some of Musk's top lieutenants, including several founders of small tech companies Twitter had acquired and the executive heading up Twitter Blue, the tech newsletter Platformer first reported.

A spokesperson for Twitter, which previously cut most of its communications department, did not respond to a request for comment.

Musk addressed the recent layoffs in an email to Twitter employees on Monday, according to a report from The Verge. In a memo, titled "Performance Awards," the billionaire reportedly said employees who have survived the cuts will receive "very significant" stock awards based on their performance.

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"This past week, we completed a difficult organizational overhaul focused on improving future execution, using as much feedback as we could gather from the entire company," Musk said in the email, according to The Verge. "Those who remain are highly regarded by those around them."

Twitter staff are not the only employees to learn they had been laid off when attempting to go about their usual day-to-day activities. In January, Insider reported that some Google staff learned they had lost their jobs when their badges didn't work at the office. Last year, several Coinbase employees discovered they had been laid off when they were unable to login to their work emails.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Two arrests have been made in a reported rape and shooting incident following an in-depth criminal investigation by the Salisbury Police Department and Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Divisions.

It was learned through the investigation that on Jan. 30, the victim was held against her will at an apartment in the 1000 block of Beaglin Park Drive and raped, according to a release.

The two suspects were identified as Wanya Shanard Dawson, 27, and Tylor Herschel Johnson, 25, according to the sheriff's office, and it was determined that firearms were displayed during the commission of the rape.

On Jan. 31, Dawson responded to a residence in the 300 block of Ohio Avenue and confronted the victim, according to the sheriff's office. A fight ensued and Dawson reportedly fired three shots at the victim from the street. No one was injured as a result of the gunfire.

As a result of the investigation, a search and seizure warrant was authored for the apartment in the 1000 block of Beaglin Park Drive, and the residence was determined to belong to Dawson.

Evidence was located for the rape investigation as well as high capacity magazines, ammunition, cocaine, and controlled dangerous substance packaging material, according to the sheriff's office. It appeared that Dawson was involved in the street level sale and/or trade of cocaine, per a news release, and unique ammunition was located in the apartment matching shell casings from the shooting incident on Ohio Avenue.

CRIME:Wicomico High School student found with BB gun that resembled handgun in school

Dawson was charged with rape first degree, conspiracy rape first degree, assault 1st degree, assault 2nd degree, rape second degree, firearm use during a violent crime, sex offense third degree, sex offense 4th degree sexual contact, false imprisonment, reckless endangerment, possession with intent to distribute narcotic, possession of cocaine, possession of paraphernalia, possession of a firearm drug trafficking crime, assault weapon/mag use, maintaining a common nuisance to distribute CDS and maintaining a common nuisance to distribute narcotic.

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Johnson was charged with rape first degree, conspiracy rape first degree, assault 1st degree, assault 2nd degree, rape second degree, firearm use during a violent crime, sex offense third degree, sex offense 4th degree sexual contact, false imprisonment.

CRIME:Man convicted of attempted kidnapping after trying to snatch sleeping child from home

FIRE:Ocean Pines resident dies in house fire

Arrest warrants were issued by the District Court Commissioner and the subjects were later arrested. Dawson and Johnson are currently being held without bond at the Wicomico County Detention Center.

The Salisbury Police Department Criminal Investigation Division assisted the Wicomico County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Division throughout the investigation.

Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Two arrests made in 2023 rape and shooting incident in Salisbury, Md.
It looks like Harmony Energy Income Trust Plc (LON:HEIT) is about to go ex-dividend in the next two days. The ex-dividend date is one business day before a company's record date, which is the date on which the company determines which shareholders are entitled to receive a dividend. The ex-dividend date is important because any transaction on a stock needs to have been settled before the record date in order to be eligible for a dividend. Meaning, you will need to purchase Harmony Energy Income Trust's shares before the 2nd of March to receive the dividend, which will be paid on the 17th of March.

The company's next dividend payment will be UK0.02 per share, on the back of last year when the company paid a total of UK0.02 to shareholders. Last year's total dividend payments show that Harmony Energy Income Trust has a trailing yield of 1.6% on the current share price of 1.2225. Dividends are a major contributor to investment returns for long term holders, but only if the dividend continues to be paid. As a result, readers should always check whether Harmony Energy Income Trust has been able to grow its dividends, or if the dividend might be cut.

View our latest analysis for Harmony Energy Income Trust

Dividends are usually paid out of company profits, so if a company pays out more than it earned then its dividend is usually at greater risk of being cut. Harmony Energy Income Trust is paying out just 7.9% of its profit after tax, which is comfortably low and leaves plenty of breathing room in the case of adverse events.

Generally speaking, the lower a company's payout ratios, the more resilient its dividend usually is.

Click here to see how much of its profit Harmony Energy Income Trust paid out over the last 12 months.

Have Earnings And Dividends Been Growing?

Companies that aren't growing their earnings can still be valuable, but it is even more important to assess the sustainability of the dividend if it looks like the company will struggle to grow. If business enters a downturn and the dividend is cut, the company could see its value fall precipitously.

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We'd also point out that Harmony Energy Income Trust issued a meaningful number of new shares in the past year. Trying to grow the dividend while issuing large amounts of new shares reminds us of the ancient Greek tale of Sisyphus - perpetually pushing a boulder uphill.

Given that Harmony Energy Income Trust has only been paying a dividend for a year, there's not much of a past history to draw insight from.

The Bottom Line

Should investors buy Harmony Energy Income Trust for the upcoming dividend? In sum this is a middling combination, and we find it hard to get excited about the company from a dividend perspective.

With that being said, if dividends aren't your biggest concern with Harmony Energy Income Trust, you should know about the other risks facing this business. To help with this, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Harmony Energy Income Trust (1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) that you ought to be aware of before buying the shares.

Generally, we wouldn't recommend just buying the first dividend stock you see. Here's a curated list of interesting stocks that are strong dividend payers.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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The rescuers died while cleaning up the aftermath of the Shahed drone attack

Vladyslav Dvorak, 21, and Serhiy Sevruk, 35, were working at the scene of the impact when they were deliberately targeted by a follow-up attack, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported. Another three emergency workers were wounded and are hospitalized.

Vladyslav Dvorak State Emergency Service

Invading Russian troops conducted a Shahed drone attack against Ukraine overnight on Feb. 26. Explosions were heard at night in Kyiv itself, as well as Kyiv and Chernihiv oblasts  reportedly due to air defense.

Serhiy Sevruk Ihor Klymenko / Facebook

Three explosions were reported in Khmelnytskyi.

Out of the 14 launched drones, Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 11 of them, Ukraines General Staff said, including nine near Kyiv.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Two family members have been charged in connection with the death of a 5-year-old boy who accidentally shot and killed himself with his father's unsecured gun in Milwaukee on Feb. 21.

Jose M. Gonzalez, Elijo J. Gonzalez's father, and Bryan S. Jaensch, Jose's second cousin who was watching Elijo at the time of the incident, have each been charged with neglecting a child with the consequence being death - as a party to a crime, a Class D Felony.

If convicted, each defendant may be sentenced to up to 25 years in prison and fined up to $100,000.

According to criminal complaints:

On the afternoon of Feb. 21, Jose Gonzalez, rushed out of his residence on the 900 block of South 29th Street for a job. Jaensch, who also lives at the residence, was watching Gonzalez's two children, the 5-year-old boy and an 11-year-old girl.

After leaving, Gonzalez realized he left his loaded .40 caliber gun unsecured on his bed and sent a text message to Jaensch that read, watch my room I've got a gun in there," a criminal complaint said.

According to a questioning of Jaensch by police, he was sitting next to the 11-year-old in the living room while Elijo was playing on his dad's bed. Jaensch, 58, could see Elijo from where he was seated, the complaint noted.

Holding his dad's gun, Elijo said "look at what I got" to Jaensch and the 11-year-old.

Jaensch yelled, you better put that down, that is your dads, and Elijo put it down on the headboard of the bed. Jaensch said he moved it to a shelf concealed by a sliding door in the headboard. Elijo was still on the bed and "likely observed" where Jaensch placed the gun, the complaint said.

However, in an interview detectives conducted with the 11-year-old, she said she saw her brother playing with the gun on the bed and told Jaensch.

Jaensch took the gun away and placed it on the bed's headboard, then Jaensch continued playing with his cell phone, the girl said, according to the complaint.

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About 20 minutes later, the 11-year-old said she saw Elijo again holding the gun and told Jaensch. Jaensch yelled for Elijo to put the gun back instead of taking it away from him, the 11-year-old said.

Minutes later, shortly before 8:30 p.m., Elijo shot himself in the head, according to the complaint.

The 11-year-old ran to check on her brother, did not think he was breathing and went outside to get help.

A woman nearby who heard the commotion called 911, went into Gonzalez's residence and began giving Elijo medical aid.

When police arrived, Elijo  laying on the bed  had a large wound to the forehead, but appeared to be breathing and had a pulse, the complaint said.

A mini fridge next to the bed had a handgun located on top of it, the complaint said. And when an officer pulled the comforter off the bed to wrap Elijo in, a fully loaded shotgun was revealed.

A medical unit provided life-saving measures to Elijo, then took him to Children's Wisconsin where he was later pronounced dead.

Detectives conducting a scene investigation located a black .40 caliber Smith & Wesson and a shotgun with a pump slide on the bed, the complaint said. Multiple unfired cartridges were found inside the shelving units of the headboard, and additional ammunition was located inside a dresser.

Gonzalez said he leaves each gun loaded with a round chambered, according to the complaint. When asked about using a gun lock or some other mechanism to secure his firearms, Gonzalez said he had not gotten around to getting one yet.

When Jaensch was asked what he would have done differently, he said he should have placed the gun out of Elijo's reach, the complaint said.

How to safely store a gun

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, roughly a third of U.S. homes with children have guns, and even young toddlers are capable of finding unlocked guns and are strong enough to pull the trigger.

In homes with guns, the likelihood of an accidental death by a gun is four times higher. The most effective way to prevent unintentional shootings is the absence of guns in homes.

But for those that do have them, the academy recommends guns be locked away and ammunition locked and stored separately. Children and teens should not be able to unlock the boxes that store firearms, and guns that are loaded and unlocked should not be stored in a car or anywhere else on your property.

The academy recommends guns be unloaded any time they are set down.

Where to find free gun locks

The Milwaukee Police Department provides a limited supply of free gun locks at its district locations. The department recommends those interested call ahead to see if any are available. District station contact information can be found here.

The Milwaukee Health Department hands out free gun locks at the Northwest Health Center, 7630 W. Mill Road.

The Health Department also said residents can reach out to the United Neighborhood Centers of Milwaukee, at 414-978-2024, about gun locks.

Drake Bentley and Elliot Hughes of the Journal Sentinel staff contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Two charged in connection to death of boy, 5, who shot himself
Two militants of "Luhansk Peoples Republic" terrorist organisation, who were fighting against Ukraine and were captured, have been sentenced to 9 and 10 years of imprisonment.





Source: Luhansk Oblast Prosecutors Office



Details: In particular, a resident of Brianka, who joined the ranks of the "4th Separate Motorised Rifle Brigade of the 2nd Army Corps of the LPR people's militia" in April 2019, was convicted. He was a rifleman and travelled to combat positions along the contact line, fired at Ukrainian troops and equipped Russian fortifications.

The militant served in the towns of Frunze and Donetskyi, as well as at the unit's location in Alchevsk.

In October 2022, the Ukrainian army captured him near Lysychansk, Luhansk Oblast.

Another convict is a resident of Lutuhyne district who joined the Zoria battalion in 2014 as a "senior assistant to a mortar crew". Later, for a year, he fought as a "machine gunner" in the "1st Motorized Rifle Brigade of the 2nd Army Corps of the LPR people's militia" with a place of deployment in the village of Myrne.

In April 2022, he became a volunteer of the occupying forces of the aggressor state. He took part in the offensive on Novotoshkivka and Lysychansk, where he was wounded twice. After treatment, he continued to serve at combat positions on the Bakhmut front, where he was captured by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in September 2022.

The court found these citizens of Ukraine guilty of encroachment on the territorial integrity and inviolability of Ukraine, as well as participation in the activities of armed groups not provided for by the law (Article 110.2 and Article 260.2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Two suspects were arrested over the weekend in the fatal shooting of a 21-year-old Johnson City man in Knoxville's Lonsdale neighborhood.

On Feb. 25, Knoxville Police Department officers arrested Iran Lyons, 18, at his home on Pickett Avenue in Mechanicsville, a department spokesperson said in a press release.

Lyons faces charges of first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder, along with especially aggravated robbery and employing a firearm during a dangerous felony for the shooting death of Rahleik Garcia. His bond has been set at $750,000, court records state. Lyons already was facing a weapons charge in connection with a shootout a month earlier outside his residence, court records state.

NaKelin McAfee, 20, was arrested Feb. 26 at a home on Abercorn Road in Mascarene Hills off Western Avenue, a department release stated. McAfee also was charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder, along with especially aggravated robbery and employing a firearm during a dangerous felony and his bond was set at $750,000, court records state.

Knoxville police officers had responded to the shooting on Badgett Drive near Goins Drive just after 5 p.m. Feb. 14, according to a press release. When they arrived, they found Garcia suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene, the release stated.

Liz Kellar is a public safety reporter for Knox News. She can be reached by email at lkellar@knoxnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Two suspects arrested in fatal Valentine's Day Knoxville shooting
Two-thirds of New York voters think that disgraced first-term Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) should resign from Congress, according to a new poll, after his early political career has been marred in scandal.

A 66-percent majority of voters, including 58 percent of Republicans, think that Santos should resign from the House, according to the Siena College poll released Monday. Santos, who has been under fire for lying about his past and is facing questions about his financial background, has admitted to fabricating his resume.

The poll found that Santos hasnt garnered much support from any constituency, including from his own party. With just 17 percent of respondents having a favorable opinion of the lawmaker, including just 23 percent of Republicans, Santos is facing heat from back home.

Despite the pressure from voters, federal lawmakers and local officials to resign, Santos has thus far refused. Republican leadership, including Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), has been critical of Santos but has not tried to force him out of office. Instead, McCarthy actually seated Santos on a number of House committees, which Santos withdrew from.

The Siena poll found that just 16 percent of respondents thought he should not resign.

Santos is under both federal and state investigation for his past, including possible campaign finance and ethics violations.

The floundering support for Santos back home might raise alarms for Republican leadership, as Santos captured a Long Island seat that was previously held by a Democrat and voted for President Biden by a 54 percent to 44 percent margin in 2020. The ability to capture such seats in states like New York and California was one of the key reasons why the party was able to take a slim House majority in 2022.

The poll surveyed 744 voters and has a margin of error of 5 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
WASHINGTON  A 27-year-old motorist who was an American citizen was shot and killed Monday by a Palestinian gunman in the latest wave of bloodshed between Israelis and Palestinians.

The motorist was shot when attackers opened fire at an Israeli car near the Palestinian city of Jericho. He was transferred from the scene to Hadassah Medical Center, where he later died of his injuries, according to a statement by hospital spokeswoman Hadar Elboim.

The victim has not been identified, but the State Department said he held U.S.-Israeli dual citizenship.

Tom Nides, the U.S. ambassador to Israel, also confirmed in a message on Twitter that a U.S. citizen had died in the attack.

Sadly, I can confirm that a U.S. citizen was killed in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight. I pray for his family.  Ambassador Tom Nides (@USAmbIsrael) February 27, 2023

The killing occurred a day after two Israelis were killed by a Palestinian gunman in the northern West Bank, triggering a rampage in which Israeli settlers torched dozens of cars and homes in a Palestinian town. It was the worst such violence in decades.

The violence broke out on Sunday when a Palestinian gunman shot and killed brothers Hillel and Yagel Yaniv, ages 21 and 19, from the Jewish settlement of Har Bracha, in a shooting ambush in the Palestinian town of Hawara in the northern West Bank. The gunman fled and remained on the loose late Monday. The brothers were buried in Jerusalem.

Following the shooting, groups of settlers rampaged along the main thoroughfare in Hawara, which is used by both Palestinians and Israeli settlers.

Late Sunday, a 37-year-old Palestinian was shot and killed by Israeli fire, two Palestinians were shot and wounded and another was beaten with an iron bar, Palestinian health officials said. Some 95 Palestinians were being treated for tear gas inhalation, according to medics.

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The bloodshed started on the same day that the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority announced a joint commitment to de-escalate and prevent further violence. The agreement came after a rare meeting Sunday in Aqaba, Jordan, that was also attended by officials from the United States, Egypt and Jordan.

At the White House, National Security spokesman John Kirby praised the meeting as a starting point, but an important one. Kirby also echoed statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli President Isaac Herzog that citizens cannot take the law into their own hands.

Contributing: The Associated Press.

Michael Collins covers the White House. Follow him on Twitter @mcollinsNEWS.

More: 10 Palestinians killed, scores hurt as Israeli troops lead rare daytime operation in West Bank

More: 10 Palestinians killed, scores hurt as Israeli troops lead rare daytime operation in West Bank

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: American killed in latest bloodshed between Israelis, Palestinians
The director of the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Jen Easterly, issued a dire warning Monday, urging tech companies such as Microsoft and Twitter to curb their use of poorly designed software and unsafe practices that facilitate ransomware attacks.

The attacks threaten to undermine U.S. critical infrastructure, including energy and water supply, oil and gas production, food manufacturing, hospitals and schools.

Easterly called the current threat of cyber intrusions "far more dangerous" than the Chinese surveillance balloon that attracted so much attention earlier this month.

"Our country is subject to cyber intrusions every day from the Chinese government, but these intrusions rarely make it into national news," Easterly said Monday. "These intrusions can do real damage to our nation  leading to theft of our intellectual property and personal information; and even more nefariously, establishing a foothold for disrupting or destroying the cyber and physical infrastructure that Americans rely upon every hour of every dayfor our power, our water, our transportation, our communication, our healthcare, and so much more.

Easterly says China's hacking program is "larger than that of every other major nation combined." She added, "This is hacking on an enormous scale, but unlike the spy balloon, which was identified and dealt with, these threats more often than not, go unidentified and undeterred."

The solution, Easterly argued before an audience gathered at Carnegie Mellon University, is to eliminate "dangerous by design" technology and create liability for companies that fail to protect consumers. "Technology manufacturers must take ownership of the security outcomes for their customers," Easterly said.

Citing one example, Easterly urged Microsoft and Twitter to automatically enroll users in multifactor authentication, a multi-step process that requires customers to log into accounts with a username, password and extra layer of verification.

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Earlier this month, Twitter announced it would begin charging users for text-based multifactor authentication, which has historically been a cost-free service.

Roughly a quarter of Microsoft's customers use multifactor authentication, while fewer than 3% of Twitter's users use the same feature  numbers Easterly called "disappointing."

Despite the shortcomings, Easterly  a supporter of "radical transparency"  commended companies for disclosing customer use of security features. "Those numbers are too low, but I think the fact that they actually published them is very positive."

By contrast, Apple Inc. says 95% of its iCloud users have multifactor authentication enabled, due in large part to default activation.

"The government can also play a role in shifting liability onto those entities that fail to live up to the duty of care they owe their customers," Easterly added, noting she would push for ways to hold technology companies responsible if they expose their customers to undue risk.

Easterly said she has not yet contacted tech firms or lawmakers in connection with CISA's new plan but anticipates further guidance in conjunction with the Biden administration's long-anticipated National Cyber Strategy.

"I'm hoping that thing gets out here in the next week or so," Easterly noted.

Easterly added that CISA does not "tell social media companies what to do," but added that, "it's really important that anybody who uses Twitter, realizes that their account may be more vulnerable to being hacked."

The top CISA official, whose agency is housed within the Department of Homeland Security, also urged tech companies to address widespread vulnerabilities linked to memory access, accounting for two-thirds of all known software vulnerabilities, according to Easterly. During remote cyber attacks, malware may enter a network or system vulnerabilities in memory devices used to store data and programs. Typically, memory attacks are difficult to uncover because they evade traditional security firewalls. The director touted "memory safe" coding languages like Java, Python and Rust.

In an ominous close to her address, Easterly raised a hypothetical scenario whereby an adversary might target multiple gas pipelines with explosions, mass- pollute U.S. waterways or hijack all telecommunications.

"Attacks against our critical infrastructure in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is unfortunately not farfetched," she said.

After her remarks, Easterly told CBS News that the U.S. has not seen an increase in scanning or preparatory behavior from Chinese linked actors but remains concerned about the potential of escalatory attacks.

"I think that China will look at the things that Russia has done and not done and think hard about what they can do to be more successful if in fact, they do try and go after Taiwan," said Easterly, who was a former army intelligence officer for than two decades.

The cyber official hopes her remarks will stop tech firms who she said routinely pass the buck down to the consumer when it comes to security.

"The American people have accepted the fact that they're constantly going to have to update their software," she said. "The burden is placed on you as the user and that's what we have to collectively stop."

"CBS Evening News" headlines for Monday, February 27, 2023

Classified report reignites debate over COVID origins

EU and UK reach new Northern Ireland trading deal
By Michael Martina and David Brunnstrom

WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) -China must be more honest about the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. ambassador to China said on Monday, after reports that the U.S. Energy Department concluded the pandemic likely arose from a Chinese laboratory leak.

Nicholas Burns, speaking by video link at a U.S. Chamber of Commerce event, said it was necessary to push China to take a more active role in the World Health Organization (WHO) if the U.N. health agency was to be strengthened.

China also needed to "be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the COVID-19 crisis," Burns said, referring to the central Chinese city where the first human cases were reported in December 2019.

The Wall Street Journal first reported on Sunday that the U.S. Energy Department had concluded the pandemic likely arose from a Chinese laboratory leak, an assessment Beijing denies.

The department made its judgment with "low confidence" in a classified intelligence report recently provided to the White House and key members of Congress, the Journal said, citing people who had read the intelligence report.

Four other U.S. agencies, along with a national intelligence panel, still judge that COVID-19 was likely the result of natural transmission, while two are undecided, the Journal reported.

The Energy Department did not respond to a request for comment.

President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said on Sunday there were a "variety of views in the intelligence community" on the pandemic's origins.

"A number of them have said they just don't have enough information," Sullivan told CNN.

Asked to comment on the report, which was confirmed by other U.S. media, China's foreign ministry referred to a WHO-China report that pointed toward a natural origin for the pandemic, likely from bats, rather than a lab leak.

"Certain parties should stop rehashing the 'lab leak' narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing the origins-tracing issue," foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said.

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'A LITTLE BIT ORWELLIAN'

Burns told the Chamber event that it was a difficult moment for U.S.-China relations, with Beijing seeking to deflect blame after the U.S. military this month downed an alleged Chinese spy balloon that drifted across the continental United States.

"We're now in this surreal moment where the Chinese, who I think lost the debate over the balloon globally, lost influence and credibility around the world because of what they've done - they're now blaming this on us," Burns said.

"It's a little bit Orwellian. And it's a little bit frustrating, because I think everybody knows the truth here."

China reacted angrily when the U.S. military downed the balloon on Feb. 4, saying it was for monitoring weather conditions and had blown off course.

Burns added that it was the obligation of the United States to maintain its military strength "in and around Taiwan" to ensure the self-governed island claimed by Beijing has the ability to deter any kind of "offensive action" by China.

"It's also ... our responsibility to galvanize the rest of the world to make sure that the Chinese cannot get away with coercion or intimidation against Taiwan itself," he said.

(Reporting by Michael Martina and David Brunnstrom in Washington and the Beijing newsroom; Editing by Don Durfee and Alistair Bell)
GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo (Reuters) -The United Nations Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) suspended flights in Congo's North Kivu and Ituri provinces following an attack on one of the service's helicopters last week, the World Food Programme (WFP) said on Monday.

Flights between the provincial capital Goma and eastern cities of Beni and Bunia have been suspended until further notice, Claude Kalinga, a WFP spokesperson in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), told Reuters.

"On Friday, February 24, a helicopter operated by UNHAS came under heavy fire about ten minutes outside of Goma as it returned from Walikale to Goma," the WFP said in a statement.

The helicopter was able to land in Goma, it said, adding that three crew members and 10 passengers were unharmed.

Kalinga said the armed group that attacked the helicopter has not been identified and that flights would only resume after an assessment of the security situation.

Insecurity has spiralled in Congo's already volatile east over the past year, mainly due to the major comeback of a rebel group known as the M23.

Their latest offensives have added instability to vast mineral-rich provinces struggling with decades of militia activity.

Thirty security incidents reported in four east provinces directly affected humanitarian workers last month, the U.N. humanitarian office OCHA said on Monday.

One U.N. peacekeeper was killed in eastern DRC on Feb. 5 when a helicopter operated by the peacekeeping force came under fire while in mid-air, the U.N. peacekeeping mission MONUSCO said.

UNHAS, managed by the World Food Programme (WFP), helps the wider humanitarian community reach remote areas of critical need. Last week, the U.N. coordinator said a record $2.25 billion was needed to support those worst-affected in Congo, mostly in the east.

(Reporting by Fiston Mahamba, Stanis Bujakera and Sonia Rolley; Writing by Anait Miridzhanian and Sofia Christensen; Editing by Bhargav Acharya, Ed Osmond and Sandra Maler)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer on Monday called for Norfolk Southern Railway Chief Executive Alan Shaw to testify to Congress on "what went wrong" in the Feb. 3 train derailment in East Palestine in northeastern Ohio, that resulted in the spill of dangerous chemicals.

The accident ignited a fire and spewed a cloud of smoke over the town, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate while railroad crews drained and burned off chemicals. No fatalities or injuries have been reported, but residents have demanded answers about potential health risks.

"The fault for this disaster lies first and foremost with Norfolk Southern," Schumer said in a Senate speech, adding that Shaw "needs to come before the Senate, answer questions under oath, and explain to the American people exactly what went wrong and how they will prevent accidents like this from happening."

Schumer attacked Norfolk Southern, one of the top five U.S. railways, with using strong profits to prioritize stock buy backs "instead of putting that money to safety."

He also said that former President Donald Trump has "blamed everyone but himself" for the disaster, saying the Trump administration worked to loosen safety regulations.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, criticized Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, whom he said has seen a "catalog of crises on his watch," including this and other train derailments but has failed to attend to "basic elements of his day job."

(Reporting by Richard Cowan; writing by Paul Grant; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
By Brendan Pierson

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear a challenge to Los Angeles County's ban on sales of flavored tobacco products brought by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, which had argued that only the federal government - not state or local governments - has the legal authority to regulate tobacco products.

The justices turned away the North Carolina-based tobacco company's appeal of a lower court's decision to uphold the ban, which includes products such as menthol cigarettes and vape juice, that took effect in 2020. R.J. Reynolds is part of British American Tobacco.

The Supreme Court in December allowed a California statewide ban on flavored tobacco products, also challenged by R.J. Reynolds, to go into effect. Gavin Newsom, the Democratic governor of the most-populous U.S. state, signed that ban - a policy response to concerns about a rise in e-cigarette and tobacco use by teens - into law in 2020 and it was upheld by voters in a 2022 ballot initiative.

California became the second state to ban all flavored tobacco product sales, after Massachusetts in 2019. Several other states have restricted flavored vaping products, and several municipalities have adopted their own bans.

Then-Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, a Democrat, signed the local ban last June, a move hailed by medical groups including the American Lung Association, which called it a "tremendous step in public health."

Flavored tobacco products, especially e-cigarettes, have come under scrutiny in recent years as critics have said they appeal to youth. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration last year sought to pull all of leading e-cigarette maker Juul Labs Inc's products off the market, though that decision is on hold while the company challenges it.

A three-judge panel of the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last year upheld the Los Angeles ban on a 2-1 vote. The panel found that the industry was misreading the 2009 law that gave the FDA sole authority to develop and enforce "tobacco product standards," noting that this means the agency has exclusive power to regulate the production and marketing of tobacco products, but not retail sales.

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The statewide ban's implementation was delayed after a coalition representing the tobacco industry gathered enough signatures to put to voters a ballot initiative to halt the measure. Nearly two-thirds of voters casting ballots approved the sales ban.

The FDA in 2022 released a long-awaited proposal to ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars in the United States, though it is expected to take years to implement.

(Reporting by Brendan Pierson in New York; Editing by Will Dunham)
By Rod Nickel

KYIV (Reuters) -U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen paid a surprise visit to Kyiv on Monday to reaffirm U.S. support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russia's invasion and promote U.S. economic aid that is bolstering Ukraine's war effort.

Yellen met with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and other key government officials just days into the war's second year, repeating U.S. assurances delivered by President Joe Biden a week ago in Kyiv.

"America will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes," Yellen, flanked by sandbags at the cabinet ministers' office, told Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, in a trip also aimed at shoring up support at home for continued aid.

In a private meeting with Zelenskiy late in the afternoon, the Treasury chief aid she commended him "for his leadership and resolve in the face of Russia's illegal and unprovoked war."

Yellen said she welcomed Zelenskiy's actions to strengthen governance and address corruption - actions needed to ensure that U.S. economic aid is being spent responsibly, a message she repeated in her meeting with Marchenko.

"The United States has been powerfully supporting us since the first days of this war not only with weapons, but also on the financial front," Zelenskiy said on his Telegram social media channel.

"It is necessary to further strengthen sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war."

In public remarks, Shmyhal said he and Yellen discussed additional sanctions on Russia, including confiscating frozen Russian assets to benefit Ukraine's recovery.

But Yellen told reporters in a phone briefing that there were still significant legal obstacles to fully seizing some $300 billion in Russian frozen central bank assets and expressed caution about new curbs on Russia's nuclear energy sector.

Yellen announced the transfer of the first $1.25 billion from the latest, $9.9 billion tranche of economic and budget assistance from Washington.

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AIR RAID SIREN ON ARRIVAL

Yellen's visit comes a week after Biden staged an unannounced trip to Kyiv and promised $500 million in additional military aid for Ukraine and new sanctions on Russia announced days later, including effectively banning U.S. imports of Russian aluminum.

As Biden did, Yellen's staff worked to keep the visit a secret until she left Kyiv, with a daily media advisory for Monday saying only that she would "meet with advisors and staff."

She traveled into Kyiv via an overnight train with a small group of senior aides after landing in a U.S. military aircraft near Rzeszow, Poland, near Ukraine's western border, and left again by overnight train after a full day of meetings.

Shortly before her arrival in the capital, city air raid sirens wailed as a warning of a possible attack, although they often turn out to be false alarms.

On a chilly morning, Yellen laid a wreath at a memorial wall for Ukrainian soldiers killed in the war, saying: "I am witnessing first-hand the devastating toll of Putin's brutal war."

She stopped to inspect a destroyed Russian tank and mobile artillery piece on display at a city square cleared of visitors and met with first responders from the city's emergency services.

BUDGET SUPPORT

Yellen visited Kyiv on her return to Washington from a G20 finance leaders meeting in Bengaluru, India, where she urged counterparts to boost economic aid to Ukraine and insisted that G20 ministers issue a strong condemnation of Russia's invasion.

Since the war began, the U.S. has given Ukraine more than $13 billion in economic and budget support funding, and the latest disbursement will push that to over $14 billion, with an additional $8.65 billion expected through Sept. 30.

Yellen and Treasury officials viewed the trip as a key way to reinforce the importance of sustaining economic and budgetary assistance for Ukraine to the American public, a Treasury official said, amid signals from some Republican lawmakers that they are growing skeptical.

Ukraine is estimated to need $40 billion to $57 billion in external financing this year to support its economy and is negotiating a $15.5 billion loan program with the International Monetary Fund to partly fill the gap.

Yellen told Marchenko she backed completion of a fully financed program for Ukraine with the IMF by the end of March, Treasury said in a statement.

Yellen said such economic support is keeping Ukraine's government and critical public services running, schools open and pensions paid, providing a "bedrock of stability" that fuels Ukrainian resistance.

"A sustained military effort cannot succeed without an effective government at home," Yellen said at the Kyiv Obolon School No. 168, where the salaries of teachers, administrators and support staff are reimbursed from U.S. budget support funds.

A chalkboard at the school, damaged in Russia's initial assault on the capital last year, read "Crimea is Ours," next to one with "2+2=4."

(Additional reporting by David Lawder and Andrea Shalal; Writing by David Lawder; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Marguerita Choy)
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Its hard to find a cute pair of snow boots. Of course, youre buying them because you want to keep your feet warm and dry in the winter weather, but you shouldnt have to sacrifice style for function. This year, it seems like the polarizing Moon Boots are all over TikTok and IG. However, I decided to go a slightly more rugged route and purchased UGGs Adiroam Hiker boots  and Im so glad I did.

UGG Adiroam Hiker These boots are durable on the outside, soft and plush on the inside. $175 at UGG

If you like them, be like me and get them on sale. The boots are currently 30% off on UGGs website. However, if you do, expect loads of compliments. I recently wore them on a ski trip to Vermont, and people kept asking me where I got them.

Ive been wearing UGG boots since sixth grade  I dont care how ugly people may think they are. They are some of the warmest, comfiest shoes Ive worn. Although Ive always had classic suede and wool styles, this year I knew I had to get more of an all-weather boot since Id be traveling to snowier areas.

The Adiroam Hiker Boots are waterproof, offer awesome traction and, according to the product description, are weather-rated to temperatures as low as minus 23.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Theyre also durable, thanks to their non-marking rubber outsole. But while they look pretty heavy-duty on the outside, the interior features UGGs cloudlike sherpa lining so theyre just as comfy as the brands classic boots.

The boots come in two color options: Black or chestnut. The black features a white rubber outsole, and the chestnut has a black rubber outsole. Both are cute, but the black is currently on sale.

UGG Adiroam Hiker These boots are durable on the outside, soft and plush on the inside. $250 at UGG

I like to wear mine with my ski pants on my way to the slopes and with leggings for apres ski at the bottom of the mountain. However, you could wear these boots for any snowy situation and feel confident that your feet will be warm and you wont slip or slide.

Maybe theyre for you, maybe theyre not  either way, these boots are personally my favorite winter purchase.

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The post These UGG snow boots are my favorite winter purchase, and I keep getting compliments on them appeared first on In The Know.
A 61-year-old worker in the U.K. has won $86,000 in damages after he said his manager made ageist comments, including that he didn't want a team of "bald-headed 50-year-old men."

The United Kingdom's employment tribunal ruled earlier this month that Mark Jones was unfairly dismissed from his job as a salesperson at the U.K.'s Tango Networks because of his age, and awarded him damages of more than a year's pay.

According to the ruling, Jones started work at Tango Networks UK in 2019, at the age of 59, and worked there for two years. During that time, Jones' manager, Philip Hesketh, repeatedly referred to his desired sales team as "high energy, energetic and youthful," according to the document.

In 2020, the company was hiring for a new sales role and interviewed a candidate whom Jones recommended. Afterwards, Hesketh allegedly asked Jones about the candidate's age, according to the ruling. When told the candidate was 57, Hesketh allegedly replied "Yes, he did look old," and said that "he wanted someone younger for the role" and "who was ideally female," according to the ruling.

Hesketh also allegedly said "I don't want a team of bald-headed 50-year-old men  I want to change the dynamics," according to the ruling.

The court document found that Tango Networks ultimately extended job offers to two candidates who were the youngest of the finalists interviewed, and Hesketh made clear his intention to replace Jones with one of the new hires. Jones found out about that plan via a publicly available calendar invite set for December 18, which read, in part: "I'd like to make an offer to each on the provision we move Mark on very early in Jan 2021."

Performance improvement plan

After going on holiday and being out with illness, Jones returned to work in mid-January. A few weeks later he was formally put on a performance improvement plan. Jones filed a complaint with his employer and resigned March 2, claiming he was forced out because of his age.

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Jones' employer said he was underperforming, but the company "failed to produce any compelling evidence to objectively justify that," according to the tribunal, which noted there was "no objective information against which he is compared."

The court did not corroborate Jones' allegations that his boss made remarks about baldness, but it found that statements his both made about wanting a "youthful" and "energetic" team "chipped away at the relationship" between employer and employee.

The court ordered a payment of 71,441.36 pounds to Jones  about $86,000  to cover unfair dismissal, dismissal in breach of contract and "injury to feelings," as well as an added topper to cover the taxes due on the award.

A spokesperson with Tango Networks said that Hasketh, Jones' manager, no longer works at the company.

It's not the first time baldness has made an appearance in an employment dispute. Last year, a U.K. tribunal ruled that a man whose supervisor called him a "bald c" was a victim of sexual harassment. In that case, the panel of three male judges concluded that baldness  being much more common in men than women  is "inherently related to sex."
(Bloomberg) --

Most Read from Bloomberg

Saudi Arabia signed agreements worth $400 million with Ukraine on Sunday after the kingdoms foreign minister made a surprise visit to Kyiv, a move praised by Washington.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan met President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, his chief of staff Andriy Yermak, his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba, and others. He was the highest-ranking Saudi official to visit Ukraine in 30 years.

The trip comes after Saudi Arabia was accused by the US of siding with Russia in its year-old invasion of Ukraine through its oil policy. Saudi Arabia steers the OPEC+ producers group with Moscow, and Washington has said its production cuts have been detrimental to the global economy. Saudi Arabia rejects this, saying its policy is aimed at balancing global oil markets and is not political. The rift soured US-Saudi relations last year but tensions have since eased.

The agreements stipulated how Ukraine will spend some $410 million in humanitarian aid the Saudi government authorized in October, the prince told reporters.

As part of that, Saudi Arabia said it will finance $300 million worth of oil products for Ukraine as a grant.

The US welcomed Prince Farhans visit, calling it an important step.

Saudi Arabia Says US Ties are Solid as It Defends Oil Policy

Sundays trip was also the first to Ukraine by a high-ranking official from an Arab country since Vladimir Putins invasion began in February 2022.

We treat it as an important evidence of support of our state, especially in these days, amid the one-year mark of the Russian Federations full-scale aggression, Yermak said. This dialogue and this meeting is very important for us.

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Yermak said Ukraines officials discussed with Prince Faisal respect for the rules of international law and the United Nations statute. Our stance on this is unified, he said.

Saudi Arabia was one of 141 countries that voted last week in favor of a non-binding United Nations resolution calling for Moscows withdrawal from Ukraine.

Abramovich Met Saudi Prince for Russia-Ukraine Prisoner Exchange

The parties also talked about Saudi Arabias prior help setting up prisoner swaps with Russia and prospects for additional exchanges, to strengthening both Kyivs and Riyadhs positions in the global south, including Africa.

Ukraine hopes Riyadh will support at least some items in the peace plan laid out by Zelenskiy in November, Yermak said.

--With assistance from Fahad Abuljadayel.

(Updates with US statement from the start.)

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(Bloomberg) -- Ukraines defense of the besieged town of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region is running out of options, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said, as the enemy is gradually destroying everything which can be used to protect our positions, for reinforcement and defense.

Most Read from Bloomberg

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made an unannounced trip to Ukraine to highlight US economic aid thats helping keep the countrys public services running as Russias invasion enters its second year.

Saudi Arabia signed agreements valued at $400 million with Ukraine after the kingdoms foreign minister made a surprise visit to Kyiv.

Russias War in Ukraine: Key Events and How Its Unfolding

(See RSAN on the Bloomberg Terminal for the Russian Sanctions Dashboard.)

Listen to our special conversations from last week, including our Twitter Space analyzing Zelenskiys press conference as it happened. We also discussed the military strategies of the war, the impact on energy and the environment, the effect of sanctions including on the wealth of Russias oligarchs and what the future holds for Ukrainian refugees.

Big Take Podcast: How Does Ukraine Continue to Beat Back Russia?

Key Developments

Yellen Makes Secret Kyiv Trip to Buoy Ukraine, Build US Support

Rule-of-Law Criticism Is Holding Up NATO Expansion, Hungary Says

Ukraine Gets Support From Saudis With $400 Million Aid Deal

Citi Expects About $190 Million of Costs on Russia Wind-Down

Turkey Says NATO Talks With Sweden, Finland to Resume on March 9

On the Ground:

Bakhmut remains the epicenter of Russian attacks, with Russian forces conducting 300 artillery strikes, Ukrainian military spokesman Serhiy Cherevatyi said on television. Russia launched a squadron of Iranian-made, single-use drones, and Ukraines air force said it shot down 11 of 13. The attack hit the western city of Khmelnytskyi, killing two emergency workers and wounding three more, Zelenskiy said.

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(All times CET)

Zelenskiy Sees Defending Bakhmut as Increasingly Difficult (8:18 p.m.)

Although Zelenskiy stopped short of announcing a pullout from the strategically placed town north of Russian-occupied Donetsk city, in his nightly address the president described a desperate situation in which all cover for his countrys forces there is being destroyed.

Last week, Zelenskiy said Ukraine wouldnt defend Bakhmut at any cost.

Wizz Air Freezes Flights to Ukraines Neighbor Moldova (7 p.m.)

Discount carrier Wizz Air Holdings Plc. will suspend flights to Moldovas capital Chisinau as of March 14, citing the elevated but not imminent risk in the airspace of the country that borders Ukraine, the Hungary-based airline said in an e-mailed statement.

Moldova has been under significant strain from Russias invasion of its neighbor, with several missiles crossing into Moldovan air space over the past year. However, officials with Moldovas Civil Aviation Authority said on Monday that a risk assessment showed flights can be conducted safely across its airspace and that they regret Wizz Airs sudden decision.

Wizz Air, the biggest discount operator in Central and Eastern Europe, will resume travel to Moldova as soon as it is safe and secure, the carrier said.

We Do Want Ukraine to Win, US Spokesman Says (6:36 p.m.)

The US has every intention of supporting Ukraine in order for it to achieve victory over Russia even though the Biden administration has resisted demands to provide it with F-16 fighter jets, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Monday.

At no time have the Russians ever achieved air superiority over Ukraine, Kirby said in an interview on Bloomberg Televisions Balance of Power With David Westin. Ukraines greatest need currently is for air defenses and a better capability for combined-arms maneuvers ahead of an expected counteroffensive in the spring, he said.

We do want Ukraine to win, Kirby said. And we think Ukrainians can win, of course, but its going to be up to them to determine what victory looks like, and if and when theyre ready to go to the negotiating table.

Top Ukrainian Commander Speaks with US Counterpart (6 p.m.)

The top military commanders of Ukraine and the US spoke by telephone. Valeriy Zaluzhnyi and Mark Milley discussed weapon supplies to Ukraine, the situation on the battlefield and the Ukrainian militarys plans on how to retake occupied territories.

Zaluzhnyi told Milley that Ukraine still needs to strengthen its air defenses, including by getting F-16 fighter jets.

Yellen Makes Secret Kyiv Trip to Show US Support (5:16 p.m.)

A week after US President Joe Bidens surprise visit to the capital, Yellen arrived by train under similar secrecy to emphasize Washingtons commitment to Ukraine and demonstrate back home why the country needs billions of dollars in non-military aid.

She met President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and announced the disbursement of the first $1.25 billion in fresh economic assistance, out of a total $10 billion pledged by Bidens administration.

The US has already provided almost $50 billion to Ukraine, she said. Without such funding, Ukrainians wouldnt be able to have kids who continue to go to school, whose parents continue to go to work, Yellen said in an interview with Bloomberg News before her trip. They wouldnt be able to finance first responders and hospitals, and provide the core government services.

Russia Halts Oil to Poland on Lack of Papers (4:44 p.m.)

Russia stopped oil shipments to Poland after pipeline operator Transneft didnt receive documents necessary for the crude to be allowed to leave Russia and the loading schedule was changed to exclude flows to Polish refineries.

The producer of the oil that was due to be delivered to Poland in the final days of February didnt send shipment orders or the transit payment, Transneft spokesman Igor Dyomin said.

On Saturday, Polands largest oil company, PKN Orlen SA said it had unexpectedly stopped receiving oil via the northern leg of the Druzhba pipeline.

Estonia Urges EU to Ramp Up Ammo Acquisition (3:39 p.m.)

Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur is urging the EU to focus on speedily acquiring ammunition for Ukraine instead of sending existing stocks, as the blocs top foreign policy chief has suggested, to jump-start industrial production.

We should of course provide 155mm ammunition from existing stocks as well, but the demand stimulates supply only when new contracts are signed with the industry, Minister Pevkur wrote in a letter to EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell that was seen by Bloomberg. Pevkur stressed that Europes ammunition production volumes are currently insufficient, both to supply Ukraine but also replenish stocks in the long-term, as Russia fires Europes monthly production of artillery rounds in a single day.

The letter adds that procurements could be conducted by an EU body but also by a member state acting on behalf of the bloc if this were a quicker solution.

Monday Drone Attack Came From Rare Direction (1:35 p.m.)

An overnight drone attack was launched from Russian territory to Ukraines north, a vector that hasnt been widely used since last year, Ukrainian Air Defense spokesman Yuriy Ihnat said.

Ukrainian officials said earlier that they had shot down 11 of the 14 Iranian-made Shahed drones in the salvo, which killed at least one person and wounded four others. The attack followed a report from UK intelligence that said there are indications Russia has run down its stock of unmanned attack aircraft.

I dont remember this happening for several months, Ihnat said by phone. He added that the attack may signal that Russia has either redeployed drones to Ukraines north or received a new supply of the weapons.

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Future Ukrainian counterattacks using modern Western combat vehicles are being discussed everywhere, from Washington news conferences to Ukrainian military expert circles.

Ukraine hopes to receive up to two brigades of tanks, on top of many infantry vehicles from Western allies. But there are two main obstacles to using the tanks  the first being their delivery schedule and the second being logistics and maintenance.

Western tanks are complicated, expensive, and there are multiple different types, each of which will require its own parts, tools and training. Ukrainian forces will be able to do limited repairs near the front; to replace expensive systems, the tanks will probably have to go to Poland.

Operating new battalions of Leopard 2s and smaller numbers of Abrams and Challenger 2 tanks will test the Western allies commitment and ability to keep the parts and ammo flowing. And they will test Ukraines warfighters and mechanics ability to learn quickly and integrate so many different systems into a coherent fighting force.

The happiness from the fact that theyre giving us tanks is a little bit eclipsed by the great difficulties of maintaining them in fighting shape, said Viktor Kivliuk, a former Ukrainian officer and analyst at the Center for Defense Strategies. We cannot do it by ourselves, at least in the short term.

However, Ukrainian forces are so used to maintaining and effectively combining mind-boggling menageries of tanks and other systems, it is a challenge they can expect to overcome, Ukrainian and foreign analysts believe.

If you asked on Feb. 24, will Ukraine be able to operate all these different types of artillery, infantry fighting vehicles, people would have said no, added Phillips OBrien, a professor of strategic studies at St. Andrews University.

No Western force does that. At least now, Ukraine has shown that they have the ability to do that and the experience, unlike any army I think now in the world.

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Tailored challenges

As John Amble, the editorial director of the Modern War Institute pointed out, integrating the supply of parts and ammunition unique to these foreign-made vehicles will be a particular challenge.

Each Leopard (or Abrams, or Challenger) tank will have individual parts that are different from anything else Ukraine is sending through its logistics pathways, he wrote.

How well and how quickly it can get a single one of those parts into the country and to the unit whose tank has broken down will play an influential role in determining how much that tank contributes to the fight.

Leopard 2 tanks are expected to arrive the soonest and in the greatest numbers, making them the mainstay of the modern main battle tanks on their way to Ukraine  four have already arrived from Poland. This is fortunate, as Ukraine will have the least trouble operating them, Kivliuk said.

One complication is that Ukraine will receive different versions, including the Leopard 2A4, a widespread model from the 1980s and 1990s as well as the 2A6, which is a significantly upgraded version, with better protection, turret control and an improved 120 mm gun.

Spare parts remain a key obstacle to providing Western tanks to Ukraine  especially for the Leopards, according to Polish defense minister Mariusz Blaszczak. He suggested that the German defense industry has been sluggish to make enough, which led to huge problems with modernizing the Leopards that Poland uses.

The British Challenger 2 has some of its own unique supply and maintenance challenges. Its rifled 120 mm barrel differs from the smooth bores of the Abrams and the Leopard 2s, meaning they have to use different ammo.

The U.K.'s Daily Telegraph also noted that Challenger 2 tanks, whose biggest improvement on the Challenger 1 are their newer turrets, require two sets of tools because of the turret's different units of measurement from the hull.

Leopard 2 and Challenger 2 tanks run on diesel. The U.S.'s Abrams tank uses a gas turbine engine that burns expensive jet fuel and at prodigious rates. Not only will Ukraine have to keep supply lines for different types of fuels, it will require a lot of aviation fuel to keep the Abrams running.

Turbine-powered tanks aren't new to Ukraine though. Ukraine has been using turbine-powered Soviet T-80s for quite a while  there are about 30 of them in the Ukrainian armed forces at the moment, according to Oleg Katkov, an expert with the think-tank Defense Express.

Ukrainian experience

Ukrainian mechanics will have to learn quickly, to the point where they are able to reliably train other Ukrainians to maintain the complex machines in the future.

But training or not, the range of repairs Ukraine will be able to accomplish in its own territory will be limited, at least for a good while.

So while replacing basic parts can be done relatively close to the front, if any of the tanks sensitive systems like fire control computers go down, the tanks will probably have to be shipped to Poland to get restored. If Ukraines allies operated repair depots in Ukrainian territory, it would mean their direct participation in the war.

The long round trip from eastern or southern Ukraine to Poland will mean a longer time out of the fight. Russian forces routinely have to send heavily damaged tanks back to Russia for repairs, which adds to the invaders significant logistics problems.

However, Ukrainians can go to Poland to work alongside foreign technicians and, over time, gain a mastery of switching out or repairing some of the more complex systems. Ukraine has always had a high level of technical education and engineering capabilities. Since 2014, it has also acquired a great deal of maintenance experience as well.

As for the tanks variety, Ukraine has experience with that as well. Katkov said that Ukraine currently operates 33 different types of tanks, including multiple different modernizations of T-64s, T-72s, T-80s and T-84s, as well as captured Russian T-80s and T-90s.

With the Western tanks, we will be up to 38 or 39, he said. The tank zoo is still growing.

____________________

Note from the author:

Hi, this is Igor Kossov, I hope you enjoyed reading our article.

I consider it a privilege to keep you informed about one of this century's greatest tragedies, Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. With the help of my colleagues, I will continue to bring you in-depth insights into Ukraine's war effort, its international impacts, and the economic, social, and human cost of this war. But I cannot do it without your help. To support independent Ukrainian journalists, please consider becoming our patron. Thank you very much.
Ukrainian military medics treat their wounded comrade at the field hospital near Bakhmut, Ukraine, on Sunday Feb 26 - Evgeniy Maloletka

The West's continued supply of arms to Kyiv risks a global nuclear catastrophe, Russia's former president and an ally of President Vladimir Putin said.

"Of course, the pumping in of weapons can continue .... and prevent any possibility of reviving negotiations," Dmitry Medvedev said in remarks published in the daily Izvestia.

"Our enemies are doing just that, not wanting to understand that their goals will certainly lead to a total fiasco. Loss for everyone. A collapse. Apocalypse. Where you forget for centuries about your former life, until the rubble ceases to emit radiation."

Mr Medvedev's apocalyptic rhetoric has been seen as an attempt to deter the US-led Nato military alliance and Kyiv's Western allies from getting even more involved in the year-old war that has dealt Moscow setbacks on the battlefield.

The latest comments by Mr Medvedev, who serves as deputy chairman of Putin's powerful security council, follow Putin's nuclear warning last week and his remarks on Sunday casting Moscow's confrontation with the West as an existential battle for the survival of Russia and the Russian people.

03:00 PM

What we learned today

China hailed its "all-weather and comprehensive" strategic partnership with Belarus on Monday, the day before a state visit by President Alexander Lukashenko to Beijing.

A Russian attack with Iran-made drones early on Monday left two people dead and three more wounded in the western Ukraine city of Khmelnytskyi, the mayor Oleksandr Symchyshyn said.

Ukraine said it shot down 11 of 14 Iranian drones overnight, including nine over the Kyiv region.

The West's continued supply of arms to Kyiv risks a global nuclear catastrophe, Russia's former president and an ally of President Vladimir Putin said.

Volodymr Zelensky dismissed Eduard Moskalyov as commander of the joint forces of Ukraine.

02:52 PM

Putin gives US actor Seagal top state award for 'humanitarian work'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has bestowed a top state award on Hollywood actor Steven Seagal to reward him for his international humanitarian and cultural work, a state decree published on Monday showed.

Story continues

The decree said the 70-year-old star of action films such as "Under Siege" had been given Russia's Order of Friendship. There was no immediate reaction from Seagal.

The decree mentioned Seagal's work as a special representative of Russia's Foreign Ministry for humanitarian ties with the United States and Japan.

The U.S.-born actor and martial arts practitioner has worked in Japan and has long admired Putin, from whom he received a Russian passport in 2016.

Seagal, a frequent visitor to Russia, backed Moscow's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea region in 2014 as "very reasonable", joined a pro-Kremlin party in 2021, and visited a Russian-controlled part of eastern Ukraine last summer, where he met with a Russian-backed separatist leader.

02:42 PM

Ukraine in pictures:

A Ukrainian serviceman rests in Bakhmut - RFE/RL/SERHII NUZHNENKO/via REUTERS

A Ukrainian service member rides atop of an infantry fighting vehicle near the frontline town of Bakhmut - STRINGER/REUTERS

Ukrainian service members ride inside an infantry fighting vehicle near the frontline town of Bakhmut - STRINGER/REUTERS

02:13 PM

China hails 'all-weather' Belarus ties ahead of Lukashenko visit

China hailed its "all-weather and comprehensive" strategic partnership with Belarus on Monday, the day before a state visit by President Alexander Lukashenko to Beijing.

Lukashenko, who is visiting at the invitation of Chinese leader Xi Jinping, is a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin and has backed Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Lukashenko's three-day visit comes after China last week released a position paper on the conflict, reiterating its insistence it is a neutral party and calling for dialogue between the two sides.

"Since the establishment of diplomatic relations 31 years ago, the political mutual trust between (China and Belarus) has been continuously strengthened," Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Monday at a regular press briefing.

"China looks forward to working with Belarus to take this visit as an opportunity to promote all-round cooperation between the two countries for further development."

01:56 PM

Russia 'not a responsible nuclear power' for suspending new START treaty, says US

Russia's decision to suspend its participation in the new START nuclear arms control treaty shows it is not a responsible nuclear partner, a US official said on Monday at the United Nations disarmament conference in Geneva.

"Only a few days ago, President (Vladimir) Putin announced that Russia was unilaterally suspending the implementation of the New START treaty. Russia is once again showing the world that it is not a responsible nuclear power," said Bonnie Jenkins, US Under-Secretary for Arms Control and International Security.

01:26 PM

Listen live to our Ukraine: the latest Twitter space

01:03 PM

Ukraine jails two Russian army soldiers for shelling of residential areas

A Ukrainian court has jailed two captured soldiers accused of taking part on Russian shelling of residential areas in eastern Ukraine, the SBU security service said on Monday.

The SBU said in a statement that one of the soldiers had received a 10-year sentence and the other had been jailed for nine years.

It did not name them, say how they had pleaded and when they were sentenced, but said both had fought in eastern Ukraine and were captured last year.

"As a result of investigative actions, indisputable evidence on the guilt of two more militants who joined the ranks of the occupation groups of the aggressor country at the beginning of the full-scale invasion was collected," it said.

Both "took an active part in the storming of Ukrainian cities on the Eastern Front", it said.

12:47 PM

My sister was imprisoned in Ukraine  why will no-one tell me where she is?

When Russia invaded, the Chechelyuk family were caught up in the siege of Mariupol and separated.

They found their way back to one another, all except eldest daughter, Maryana, who was detained by Russia then disappeared without a trace.

Read the full piece from Nataliya Vasilyeva here

12:33 PM

Pictured: A Ukrainian serviceman walks an empty street in the front line city of Bakhmut

A Ukrainian serviceman walks an empty street in the front line city of Bakhmut - RFE/RL/SERHII NUZHNENKO/via REUTERS

12:10 PM

Russia claims its forces destroyed ammunition depot near Bakhmut

Russia's defence ministry claims its forces had destroyed a Ukrainian ammunition depot near the city of Bakhmut, also shooting down four HIMARS missiles and five drones launched by Ukrainian forces.

Russia has made the capture of Bakhmut a priority in its drive to take control of Ukraine's eastern Donbas industrial region.

11:39 AM

Ukraine 'shoots down 11 of 14 Iranian drones'

Ukraine has said it shot down 11 of 14 Iranian drones overnight, including nine over the Kyiv region.

Nine Shahed drones were shot down in the airspace over Kyiv, Serhiy Popko, head of the Kyiv City military administration said.

Air raid sirens blared in the capital Kyiv and other cities overnight.

"The drone attack was actually carried out in two waves," he added.

There are not thought to have been any casualties or hits on buildings.

11:34 AM

EU's von der Leyen to meet Britain's King Charles

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet King Charles at Windsor Castle during her visit to Britain on Monday to finalise talks with the British government on a new deal on post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland.

A palace source said the meeting between Charles and von der Leyen followed government advice that her visit would provide an opportunity to discuss a broad range of issues including Ukraine and climate change.

11:12 AM

Pictured: A woman walks her dog past her destroyed residential building in the Kharkiv region

Tatiana Chvalun, 70, walks her dog Buru past her residential building destroyed as a result of shelling last March 9, that killed 54 people, in the town of Izyum, Kharkiv - ANATOLII STEPANOV/AFP

10:45 AM

Kremlin calls new EU sanctions package against Russia 'absurd'

The Kremlin hit out at the European Union on Monday after the bloc adopted its latest package of sanctions against Russia for its military intervention in Ukraine.

"All this, of course, is absurd," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in response to a question about the new penalties, which target 121 individuals and entities.

The latest penalties are the 10th round of EU sanctions aimed at undercutting Russia's finances and military supplies for the conflict.

10:27 AM

Kremlin says it is concerned by situation in breakaway Moldovan region

The Kremlin said on Monday it was worried about the state of affairs in Moldova's breakaway Transdniestria region, where it said Ukraine and other European countries were stirring up the situation.

Moscow last week told the West that it would view any actions that threatened Russian peacekeepers in Transdniestria as an attack on Russia itself, a warning that came amid increased concerns in Moldova, a small ex-Soviet republic located between Romania and Ukraine, of a possible Russian threat.

Moldova's pro-European president, Maia Sandu, this month accused Moscow of plotting a coup, something Russia denied.

"Naturally, the situation in Transdniestria is the subject of our closest attention and a reason for our concern," Peskov told reporters. "The situation is unsettled, it is being provoked, provoked from outside.

"But we know that our opponents in the Ukrainian regime, the Kyiv regime, as well as those in European countries, are capable of various types of provocation."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed Moscow's assertion that Ukraine wants to take over the region, while Moldova sad there was no truth to the allegations.

09:53 AM

Second confirmed death from Russian drone attack in west Ukraine

A Russian attack with Iran-made drones early Monday left two people dead and three more wounded in the western Ukraine city of Khmelnytskyi, the mayor said.

Mayor Oleksandr Symchyshyn said in separate messages on social media that two rescue workers had died in hospital following the attack with more than a dozen unmanned aerial vehicles.

"Unfortunately, we have another hospital death. Doctors failed to save the life of another hero - a rescuer," he said in the second statement after earlier reporting the first death.

09:36 AM

Watch: Inside Zelenskys wartime bunker in Kyiv

09:16 AM

Comment: Xi and Putin have declared a new Cold War

Our global order is in deep trouble. It is now more protectionist and more divided than at any time since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Our post-Cold War complacency has seen autocratic states multiply in recent years. Now, China and Russia are openly pioneering a competing vision  a post-West world order that we cannot afford to ignore.

Read the full story from Tobias Ellwood and Hamish De Bretton-Gordon here

08:49 AM

UN rights chief warns of backsliding on global freedoms

The United Nations Human Rights chief Volker Turk warned on Monday that human rights gains made in recent decades were being reined back and even reversed, citing Russia's "senseless" invasion of Ukraine as a current example of oppression.

"Much of the progress made over decades is being reined back and even reversed in some parts...," High Commissioner Turk said in a speech on the opening day of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva attended by more than 100 ministers and heads of state.

He called for countries to work to overcome their differences and create a "new world-wide consensus on human rights".

08:35 AM

Pictured: Residents walk near a destroyed residential building after attacks in the town of Borodyanka, Kyiv

Local residents walk near a destroyed residential building after attacks in the town of Borodyanka, Kyiv - Anadolu Agency/Anadolu

08:23 AM

Welcome to wartime Russia... where you cant protest, buy clothes or go on holiday

From cancelled holidays to rows with parents and worries about ex-convict mercenaries wandering the streets, war in Ukraine has changed Russia.

One year on from Vladimir Putins full-scale invasion, people living in Russia told The Telegraph how their lives have become more boring, precarious and dangerous.

I had plans and goals and now my only goal is to relocate or if I cant, to relocate my daughter, said a nurse who lives in Moscow. This war has ruined my life.

Read the full story from James Kilner here

08:14 AM

Zelensky dismisses commander of the joint forces

Volodymr Zelensky has dismissed Eduard Moskalyov as commander of the joint forces of Ukraine, which are engaged in battles in the Donbas.

The Ukrainian president did not give any reason for firing Mr Moskalyov.

08:06 AM

Four tales of survival from the siege of Kyivs most brutal moments  one year on

A year ago this weekend, the start of Russias siege of Kyiv plunged Europe into its gravest military crisis since the Second World War.

Colin Freeman, The Telegraphs correspondent, was in Ukraines capital during the month-long stand-off, reporting on the citys struggle for survival.

A year on, he and photographer Julian Simmonds track down witnesses to some of the key events to see what their life is like now.

Read more from Colin Freeman here

07:58 AM

Ukraine's ground forces commander visits Bakhmut

The commander of Ukrainian ground forces Colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi visited besieged Bakhmut to boost morale and talk strategy with units defending the town and surrounding villages in eastern Ukraine, the military said over the weekend.

Military analysts expect that Ukraine's forces will put their "maximum effort" in coming days into defending Bakhmut, which in recent months has seen some of the bloodiest attritional fighting of Russia's year-old invasion.

Russia has made the capture Bakhmut a priority in its strategy to take control of Ukraine's eastern Donbas industrial region.

"(Syrskyi) listened to the unit commanders tackling urgent problems, provided assistance in solving them, and supported the servicemen," the Ground Forces said on the Telegram messaging app.

07:56 AM

Pictured: Ukrainian soldiers treated at a field hospital near Bakhmut

A Ukrainian military medic treats his wounded comrade at the field hospital near Bakhmut - Evgeniy Maloletka/AP

Ukrainian military medics help their wounded comrade to get out from an ambulance after arriving from the battlefield to the field hospital near Bakhmut - Evgeniy Maloletka/AP

Ukrainian military medics help their wounded comrade to get out from an ambulance after arriving from the battlefield to the field hospital near Bakhmut - Evgeniy Maloletka/AP

07:54 AM

Latest MoD update

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 27 February 2023



Find out more about Defence Intelligence: https://t.co/Cg1AlRQ2SI



 #StandWithUkraine  pic.twitter.com/0cX28D5RdE  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) February 27, 2023

07:52 AM

Good Morning

Good morning and welcome to today's Ukraine liveblog.

We will be guiding you through all the latest developments on Ukraine.
Key developments on Feb. 27:

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Feb. 27 to reaffirm Washingtons economic support for Ukraine.

During the trip, she met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, among other officials.

Yellen conveyed that the U.S. will stand with Ukraine "for as long as it takes," and "highlighted the efforts of the U.S. and its global coalition to impose severe sanctions on Russia to degrade its war machine and limit the revenue it has to fund its brutal war," according to the U.S. Department of Treasury.

"The United States has been powerfully supporting us since the first days of this war not only with weapons, but also on the financial front," Zelensky wrote on his Telegram following his meeting with Yellen. "We really appreciate it."

"It is necessary to further strengthen sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war," Zelensky added.

Yellens trip comes a week after U.S. President Joe Biden paid a historic surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital in a show of "unwavering" support to Ukraine, and the introduction of Washingtons new sanctions against Russia, targeting over 200 individuals and entities within Russia and worldwide, including banks and key suppliers of the Russian military.
Key developments on Feb. 26:

Ukraine is eyeing to launch a major counteroffensive in spring, which could include striking airfields and depots of rockets and artillery systems inside Russia, a top intelligence official said in an interview published on Feb. 26.

"It is one of our strategic military goals that we try to drive a wedge in the Russian front in the south  between (occupied) Crimea and Russia," Vadym Skibitsky, deputy head of Ukrainian military intelligence, told the German newspaper Berliner Morgenpost.

It is possible that we will also destroy arms depots or military equipment on Russian territory, for example around the city of Belgorod, Skibitsky said.

The anticipated spring counteroffensive is aimed to liberate the entire country and push out about 370,000 Russian soldiers fighting across Ukraine, according to Skibitsky.

The statement about an anticipated spring counteroffensive came after top defense officials said Ukraine was preparing for a major push to change the dynamic of the war. Currently, Russia is pushing on the eastern front as it masses forces trying to finally capture the city of Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast after months of intense siege.

Ukraine said recently that its striking distance has increased. After a series of explosions were reported in the Russian-occupied city of Mariupol in southeastern Ukraine last week, the military said that the area was no longer completely unreachable for Ukrainian forces.

Drone strikes targeting Engels air base in western Russia in December, which appeared to be Ukraines strategic attacks to undermine Russias missile capabilities, have signaled Ukraines increased willingness to hit behind Russian lines.

Story continues

In an interview published in early January, Ukraines military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov said there may be further strikes deeper and deeper inside Russia.

But Budanov did not claim Ukraines responsibility for a series of drone attacks at Russias air bases hundreds of kilometers deep inside the country, adding that he could only comment on it once the war ends.

We will return Crimea

President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to liberate Crimea as he marked the nine-year anniversary of Russias occupation of the Black Sea peninsula.

This is our land. Our people. Our history. We will return the Ukrainian flag to every corner of Ukraine," Zelensky said in a statement.

"By returning Crimea, we will restore peace, he added.

In 2014, Russia illegally annexed Crimea in the wake of the EuroMaidan Revolution in Ukraine, which ousted pro-Russian former president Viktor Yanukovych. The peninsula is currently home to Russia's Black Sea Fleet.

On Feb. 26, the U.S. once again condemned Russias purported annexation of the peninsula, stressing that it does not and never will recognize the annexation.

Fierce fighting continues

Russia launched 11 airstrikes and 17 rocket attacks against Ukraine over the past day, the General Staff of Ukraines Armed Forces reported on Feb. 26.

Zelensky said in his evening address that Ukraine shot down a Russian aircraft near the front-line city of Avdiivka in Donetsk Oblast.

In the northern part of Donetsk Oblast, fierce fighting continues in the Bakhmut area. Ukrainian forces are still defending the city despite the ammunition scarcity.

The State Border Guard said on Feb. 26 that Russian forces continue to fire upon Ukrainian positions with artillery and tanks. It said that the Ukrainians were defending their advance with machine guns, grenade launchers, and mortars.

The Russians are concentrating their attacks on Bakhmut in small groups composed of about 10 people. The Border Guard reported that one of the Russian assault groups suffered heavy losses, with nine killed and five wounded.

In the easternmost Luhansk Oblast, regional governor Serhiy Haidai said that Russian infantry units launched attacks on Ukrainian positions near the Russian-occupied town of Kreminna and the liberated village of Bilohorivka.

Meanwhile, some 700 kilometers west of the Donbas, Saudi Arabias Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud visited Kyiv.

His visit marked Saudi Arabias first official delegation to come to Ukraine since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1993.

Saudi Arabia has announced $400 million in humanitarian aid for Ukraine, the Presidents Office said on Feb. 26.
Oleksiy Danilov

A person who currently has certain powers on the territory of Belarus, he thinks so, he controls the whole situation, Danilov said.

Do you want us to provoke the situation regarding certain processes on the territory of Belarus today? I dont think so.

The official emphasized the Russians currently have 10,000 soldiers on the territory of Belarus who are undergoing training at shooting grounds.

We have no desire for the orders to be given from the territory of Belarus, namely to the Belarusian army, to invade our territory, Danilov said.

Read also: Two blasts reportedly heard at Belarusian air base, Telegram channel reports

We understand everything that is happening. Of course, all the processes that are taking place in Belarus are a certain challenge for us. Were doing everything possible to prevent this from happening. Ill emphasize once again that we have no desire for Belarus and the Belarusian army to join the Russians on the side of Russia.

Ukrainian Joint Forces Commander Lieutenant-General Serhiy Nayev said on Feb. 22 that Russia does not have the resources needed for an offensive in the north of Ukraine.

Read also: Fewer than 10,000 Russian troops currently present in Belarus  border service

According to Nayev, Belarus has currently 65,000 military personnel, of which 4,000 are deployed in the border areas with Ukraine.

Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin claimed that 100,000-150,000 Belarusians could join the peoples militia.

Andriy Demchenko, a spokesperson for the State Border Service of Ukraine, said on Feb. 20 there is currently no strike group on the territory of Belarus capable of launching a new offensive against Ukraine from the northern direction.

However, he emphasized that Ukraine should not underestimate the enemy and the situation could change at any moment.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
By Olena Harmash

KYIV (Reuters) - When Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago, the shelves of the Novus supermarket chain in Kyiv quickly emptied as its supply chains - domestic and overseas - collapsed. Fresh produce became scarce and panic buying spread.

Oleksiy Panasenko, deputy director general for operations at the popular outlet, recalls how the business reeled before Novus, like many other large retail chains, managed to adapt.

"On the second day (of the war), there was already fighting on the outskirts of Kyiv," he told Reuters. "In February and March, our shops became more than a place to buy food: they were a place to meet, to communicate; so-called islands of stability."

And when Ukrainian troops forced Russia's army to retreat from the capital in the spring, the retail sector and the broader economy rebounded.

Data from Ukraine's European Business Association - which groups over 1,000 foreign and Ukrainian businesses - showed that by the end of May 47% of their members had fully restored operations and another 50% were working with some limitations.

But then missile attacks began in October, dealing Ukraine a hammer blow. Russia struck at power grids and sub-stations across the country, leading to outages during the freezing winter and hitting heavy industry hard.

The economy shrank by a third last year, the largest fall since Ukraine's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Before Russia's invasion, annual economic output had topped $200 billion.

As the war enters its second year with no sign of slowing, the challenges are formidable. Reuters canvassed seven economists whose forecasts for 2023 ranged from a sizeable - though far less dramatic - decline of 5% in gross domestic product (GDP) to a small expansion.

Access to reliable power will be a major obstacle. While many businesses are finding ways to cope with war, those that cannot run on generators alone will struggle this year, according to the economists, two government officials and executives from two private companies.

Story continues

ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine's largest steel mill, said its production was currently at about 25% of pre-war levels amid electricity blackouts.

"We see small and medium-sized businesses adapt fairly quickly to power shortages by purchasing generators, batteries, and other equipment, while infrastructure damage remains moderate," said Olena Bilan, chief economist at Dragon Capital investment house, whose forecast was the most negative among the economists surveyed.

"If this situation persists, the fall in GDP in 2023 will not be as significant as we expect. But our forecast also envisages an end of the war's hot phase at the end of third quarter of 2023," said Bilan.

She added that because of international support for Ukraine, it was "realistic" to expect its forces to continue to win back territory occupied by the Russians.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the war is going according to plan, and casts it as a "special military operation" to protect Russia's own security.

Ukraine's central bank predicts GDP will grow by 0.3% this year, while the economy ministry forecasts 3.2% growth.

HUGE TOLL

By last summer, Ukrainian officials had already started sounding more confident about the country's economy, in particular after a UN-brokered grain export deal.

The agreement saved Ukraine's agriculture, which accounted for about 12% of GDP and some 40% of overall exports before the war.

As of mid-February, Ukraine's grain exports for the 2022-2023 season - which runs July to June - had fallen 29.3% year-on-year to 29.7 million tonnes.

A massive increase in military spending, including army wages, has also provided a boost to the economy, said Vitaly Vavrishchuk, head of research at ICU investment house. Ukraine spent 1.5 trillion hryvnias ($40.6 billion) on its defence sector in 2022 - equivalent to around one-third of its economic output - according to the National Security Council.

That was around five times higher than its planned pre-war defence budget.

Tens of billions of dollars in foreign assistance have poured in, both to help plug the budget deficit and arm Ukrainian forces.

But despite the positives, Ukraine is well behind where it was before the war began. And the economic toll is staggering.

The invasion destroyed schools, hospitals, ports, roads and bridges. The Kyiv School of Economics estimated the damage to infrastructure due to the war at $138 billion as of December.

Poverty rates have soared and the budget deficit is forecast to hit $38 billion in 2023 following a collapse in tax revenues. The government is depending on Western aid to cover it - most of it from the United States and the European Union.

"Ukraine's government took measures that helped to reduce the monthly deficit in 2023 to $3-3.5 billion, which is still a huge figure," Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko said, noting there was also a need for infrastructure investment to fuel a recovery.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's government has called on donors to start planning for the massive task of reconstruction this year, though it recognizes large scale building will be difficult until some peace returns.

Between 40% and 60% of the energy sector has been damaged, according to Marchenko, who said at a recent roundtable in February that he could often hear attack drones buzzing above his house or the building of his ministry.

Business events are often held in underground shelters for security. Blackouts are regular. Novus's Panasenko said the company lost about 30% of the stores' opening hours in Kyiv in December and some 20% in January.

The steel sector, a key pillar of the economy, is among the hardest hit. Ukraine was the world's 14th largest producer of steel before the war.

Two leading steel producers, Azovstal and MMK Illicha in Mariupol, were destroyed and are officially bankrupt.

Those that remain are struggling with power outages.

"Blackouts for companies like us are a big issue," Mauro Longobardo, general director of ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih. The company recently started to import electricity, but the costs were high. He did not provide further details.

Ukraine's electricity system is connected to the European grid, where prices are higher, and it has imported energy from neighbouring Slovakia.

Energy deficits are not the only challenge for ArcelorMittal.

Its warehouse in Kryviy Rih, some 400 km (250 miles)southeast of Kyiv, was hit by three Russian missiles in early December and one worker was killed, Longobardo said.

ArcelorMittal's mining facility in a recently liberated area was strewn with landmines and most of the related infrastructure damaged.

Logistics are another headache for the company, which used to export up to 80% of its output. Russia blocked Ukraine's Black Sea ports and Longobardo had to work on new export routes through Poland.

Despite the challenges, ArcelorMittal, Ukraine's biggest foreign investor, is committed to stay.

The largest employer in Kryviy Rih, the birthplace of Zelenskiy, it has kept its 26,000 employees on the payroll despite a production fall. Longobardo said ArcelorMittal would invest $130 million this year. Such plans are rare now.

The outlook for some other sectors is more positive.

Economy ministry data showed Ukraine imported 669,400 generators last year, including over 300,000 in December alone. Panasenko said 52 out of Novus's 82 stores were already equipped with generators.

ICU's Vavrishchuk saw the economy continuing to adapt, and sectors with high state financing would benefit the most.

But obvious security risks were deterring private investments, crucial for a robust recovery.

Ukraine has a mixed record on attracting foreign private investment. In 2021, it ranked as the second-lowest country in Europe on Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index, behind only Russia.

Vavrishchuk said the country would need to enforce the rule of law, ensure transparency and fair competition.

"Participation in the post-war reconstruction could be attractive for investors," he said. "But still we will have to address all those issues (transparency and corruption) that we have not had time to before the war began."

(Reporting by Olena Harmash; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Daniel Flynn)
The cover of the novel, Jiashan, which follows the lives of a rural family over five generations.[Photo/China Daily]

Set against the turbulent backdrop of war and upheaval, novel takes an insightful look into a community buffeted by history.



One day in May, 1927, a wealthy man Chen Xiufu, or the Revered Youde from Shawan village in Central China's Hunan province, went to the county seat to seek information about his son Chen Shaofu who was serving in the army. After a military coup in Changsha, Hunan's capital, the county's head was killed. Chen Shaofu evaded the danger by returning to the countryside, where he set up a primary school with other villagers.

Starting at the end of Northern Expedition between 1924 and 1927, the 699-page novel Jiashan (Home Mountain) by Wang Yuewen unfolds the undulating history of Shawan village throughout the revolutionary period, the founding of the People's Republic of China and the construction of the country over the next two decades. In total, the story spans five generations of the Chen family.

At the book's launch ceremony recently in Beijing, Li Jingze, literary critic and vice-president of China Writers Association, said Wang's work provides an insight about how rural communities, with their long-existing social structure and cultural practices, created a new identity amid tremendous historical changes.

The epic novel is an encyclopedia of rural life in China. Rich in natural resources, Shawan, with hundreds of households, was dominated by rice-cultivating culture. The vast fields separated the village and the high Baozi (leopard) Mountain, where numerous wild animals  wolves, bears, wild dogs, foxes, boars, pheasants, squirrels, hares, yellow weasels, among others  thrived.

Wanxi River flowed past the village. On the broad sandy bank stood tangerine orchards, sugarcane and cotton plants. In the slack season on the farms, young men from the village, all surnamed Chen, left to find other work, such as that of a blacksmith or an apprentice.
By Oleksandr Kozhukhar

KYIV (Reuters) - The commander of Ukrainian ground forces Colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi visited besieged Bakhmut to boost morale and talk strategy with units defending the town and surrounding villages in eastern Ukraine, the military said over the weekend.

Military analysts expect that Ukraine's forces will put their "maximum effort" in coming days into defending Bakhmut, which in recent months has seen some of the bloodiest attritional fighting of Russia's year-old invasion.

Russia has made the capture Bakhmut a priority in its strategy to take control of Ukraine's eastern Donbas industrial region.

"(Syrskyi) listened to the unit commanders tackling urgent problems, provided assistance in solving them, and supported the servicemen," the Ground Forces said on the Telegram messaging app.

The 57-year-old commander, one of Ukraine's most experienced, has been regarded as the mastermind behind the defeat of Russian forces as they advanced on Kyiv early in the war and in the Kharkiv region in September.

Now charged with the defence of Bakhmut, Syrskyi has made a number of trips to the town, maintaining the Kyiv's forces will hold it.

"A thoughtful system of engineering barriers, combined with a natural (hilly) landscape, has turned the area into a true impregnable fortress, at the walls of which not just a thousand of enemies had found death," Syrskyi said in early February.

Russia had made recent progress towards encircling Bakhmut, where only about 5,000 of 70,000 residents remain, but its failure to capture the town, deprived Russian President Vladimir Putin of the chance to declare a victory on Friday's first anniversary of his invasion Feb. 24.

Over the weekend, Ukrainian forces launched a number of counter-attacks and repulsed Russian forces around the village of Yahidne, after Russia's Wagner mercenary group claimed to have captured it and the village of Berkhivka.

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The Russian defence ministry said on Sunday that its forces have destroyed Ukrainian "sabotage and reconnaissance groups," including in the area of Yahidne, while Russia's TASS state agency reported that Ukraine's forces blew up a dam just north of Bakhmut.

Reuters was not able to independently verify the reports.

The fierce battles along the front lines in Ukraine's south and east, especially near Bakhmut, now consist of crawling attempts by each side to move the line, sometimes just a few metres at a time.

The weekend Ukrainian counter-attacks to the north of Bakhmut have helped to stabilise the front there, military analysts said. But Moscow has been continuously throwing in new troops and equipment.

"Russia may start attacking from three sides from Monday," Ukrainian military analyst Oleh Zhdanov said in a social media video. "Ukraine puts maximum effort into holding Bakhmut."

Putin invaded Ukraine claiming it was necessary to protect Russian sovereignty, but Ukraine and its allies in the West say it was nothing more than an unprovoked land grab.

(Reporting by Oleksandr Kozhukhar; Writing by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Michael Perry)
The Ukrainian Air Force notes that the Russians are now using Iranian-made Shahed attack drones to track down and deplete Ukrainian air defence systems.

Source: Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for the Air Force of Ukraine, on air with the 24 TV channel

Quote: "Previously, they were used more in combination with missiles. Now they are exhausting the air defence system, identifying the locations. The same A-50 radar plane takes off when we conduct combat work against the Shahed UAVs; it records the launch sites of our anti-aircraft missile systems. This way, they discover and create an algorithm of where we shoot from, how we move, etc."

Details: Ihnat clarified that unlike previous times, this night Russia launched Iranian drones not from the eastern coast of the Sea of Azov, but from Bryansk Oblast.

Out of the 14 launched Shahed drones, 11 were shot down.

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Russia has lost 148,690 soldiers, 6,621 armoured combat vehicles, 3,385 tanks and 2,048 UAVs in its war against Ukraine.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook

Details: Total combat losses of the Russian forces between 24 February 2022 and 27 February 2023 are estimated to be as follows [figures in parentheses represent the latest losses - ed.]:

approximately 148,690 (+560) military personnel,

3,385 (+4) tanks,

6,621 (+6) armoured combat vehicles,

2,380 (+0) artillery systems,

475 (+0) multiple-launch rocket systems,

247 (+0) air defence systems,

300 (+1) fixed-wing aircraft,

288 (+0) helicopters,

2,048 (+11) operational-tactical UAVs,

873 (+0) cruise missiles,

18 (+0) ships/boats,

5,248 (+6) vehicles and tankers,

230 (+0) special vehicles and other equipment.

The data is being confirmed.

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A soldier of the 28th separate mechanized brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near Bakhmut, Donetsk Oblast, February 25, 2023

Our partners have started to gradually comprehend what kind of war it is, he said.

There was much talk from our most powerful allies that we should not use certain weapons that they provide us for attacks on the territory of the Russian Federation as this could lead to an escalation of the conflict.

Read also: Russia lacks forces and means to invade from Belarus in coming weeks  Ukraines intel

He noted that this talk has changed, with UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace stating that 97% of Russias entire military is engaged in Ukraine, meaning that Russia cannot physically escalate even if it wanted to.

According to Hetman, targets on the territory of the aggressor state are legal under all existing international norms and treaties.

Read also: Belarus invading Ukraine would be a mistake, Zelenskyy says

(These are targets) on some military bases, on some airfields, on missile deployment sites, he said.

If we destroy them on the territory of Belarus and Russia, we have every right to do so under all international laws since our country is being attacked from these territories.

If Ukraine does not strike these launch sites on Russian and Belarusian territory, more live will be lost and the war may continue on like this for another hundred years, Hetman believes.

A Russian Air Force A-50U AEW aircraft was reportedly damaged by a drone attack on the Belarusian airfield of Machulyshchi on Feb. 26.

It is from that airfield that Russian combat aircraft take off regularly, sparking air raid alerts throughout Ukraine.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Serhii Panasiuk, a 33-year-old soldier of the Territorial Defence Forces of Volyn Oblast, was killed at the Ukrainian-Belarusian border during a combat task. All the circumstances of his death are currently being investigated.

Source: Serhii Khominskyi, spokesperson for the Territorial Defence Forces of Volyn Oblast, in a comment to Suspilne media outlet

Details: A funeral of Serhii Panasiuk, who was a junior sergeant, was held on 26 February 2023, in the village of Siltse, Ratne hromada, Volyn Oblast [hromada is an administrative unit designating, in this case the town of Ratne and its adjacent territories  ed.].

Khominskyi has said that Panasiuk was killed at the crack of dawn on 25 February 2023. It is currently being established and clarified under what circumstances this happened. "Law enforcement agencies are in charge of the investigation; relevant units of the brigade are also conducting an internal investigation themselves," Khominskyi stated.

Serhii Panasiuk was a soldier who went through the ATO [The ATO or Anti-Terrorist Operation is a term used from 2014 to 2018 by the media, the government of Ukraine and the OSCE to identify combat actions in parts of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts against Russian military forces and pro-Russian separatists  ed.]. He joined the Territorial Defence Forces during the first days of the full-scale invasion. He was the commander of a motor rifle platoon. He had a daughter and a son.

Unverified information that there was allegedly a hostile shooting from Belarus appeared online. The State Border Committee of Belarus has denied that there was a shooting from their side.

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Vadym Skibitskyi

"During the spring counter-offensive, the Ukrainian army may hit Russian (military) airbases and depots with rockets and shells, he explained.

It's not excluded that we also will target weapons depots in the Russian area, for example near the city of Belgorod.

Read also: Ukrainian intel officer reveals plans to liberate Crimea

According to Skibitskyi, that is one of the main locations that constantly threatens Ukraine, in particular the city of Kharkiv and the oblast.

Read also: Kyiv vows not to target Russia with long-range Western weapons

The White House called on Ukraine not to delay the counter-offensive to consolidate Ukraines successes on the battlefield.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd James Austin III said during the Ramstein meeting on Feb. 14, that the U.S. will to support Kyiv until the end of the war.

Austin mentioned back on Jan. 20 Ukraine's ability to launch a counter-offensive in spring.

Meanwhile, Director of the National Antarctic Scientific Center and veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war, Yevhen Dykyi, believes that the Ukrainian Armed Force will launch a counter-offensive closer to summer.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Valerii Zaluzhnyi

Read also: US discussing transfer of fighter jets to Ukraine with allies

Updated the need to strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian air defense system, including through the supply of F-16 multi-purpose combat aircraft, Zaluzhnyi wrote.

He also thanked Milley, the leadership, and the people of the United States for their consistent support of Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.

Every shell received, every piece of weapons and equipment  are saved lives of Ukrainian military and civilians, added Zaluzhnyi.

Thanks to the help of our partners, we are holding on and will definitely win.

Read also: China's peace plan may include ban on weapon supplies to Ukraine, Bloomberg reports

On Feb. 26, the White House stated that the possible transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine isnt urgent at the moment and is an issue for future discussions.

Earlier, U.S. President Joe Biden ruled out the possibility of sending F-16s to Ukraine.

At the same time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, said the discussion remains open.

Read also: EU and NATO discuss providing Ukraine with Western fighter jets

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan earlier said Biden and Zelenskyy had discussed the supply of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, but added that fighter jets "are not the key capability."

Earlier, U.S. Under Secretary of State Victoria Nuland said that "some countries in Europe" are interested in making deliveries of fighter jets. She added that "this is an evolving picture" which changes depending on what Ukraine needs at any given moment.

Previously, U.S. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated Germany wouldn't provide aircraft to Ukraine. Poland said it was ready to act only with broad collective support from the West.

Read also: Ukraine expects first tanks from partners in the near future  Reznikov

According to Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov, a positive decision on the transfer of aircraft to Ukraine is a matter of one or two months.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - An ultra-conservative Jewish politician on Monday said he was resigning from his role in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government after failing to advance his agenda, but that he would still support the coalition in parliament.

Avi Maoz, whose Noam party had one of the Knesset's 120 seats, was made a deputy minister in Netanyahu's office as part of the coalition sworn in on Dec. 29, with responsibilities for encouraging stringent observance of Jewish law in the country.

His inclusion shook Israel's once-dominant secular liberals, who have been holding weekly mass-demonstrations against reforms sought by Netanyahu to curb the power of the Supreme Court.

"To my amazement, I discovered that there is no serious intent to implement the coalition agreement regarding the administration of national Jewish identity," Maoz said in a resignation letter circulated to Israeli media.

"I will fulfil my duty as a regular Knesset member in the coalition," he added.

Netanyahu commands a 64-seat parliamentary majority. But cracks have appeared in the support of his powerful far-right partners, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Both chafed at Netanyahu envoys' undertaking, at a Jordania-hosted security meeting with Palestinians on Sunday, to hold off on any new announcements regarding Jewish settlement in the occupied West Bank in the coming months.

(Writing by Dan Williams; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Monday that Russia unleashed widespread death, destruction and displacement when it invaded Ukraine more than a year ago, as the international body marks the 75th anniversary of its Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Universal Declaration sets out the rights to life, liberty and security; to equality before the law; to freedom of expression; to seek asylum; to work, to healthcare and education, and more. But as we mark its 75th anniversary, the Universal Declaration is under assault from all sides, Guterres said in remarks to the U.N. Human Rights Council.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has triggered the most massive violations of human rights we are living today. It has unleashed widespread death, destruction and displacement, Guterres said of the war that crossed its one-year mark last week.

The U.N. chief cited Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians and civilian infrastructure, violations against prisoners of war and conflict-related sexual violence against women, girls and men documented by the U.N.s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

Todays public disregard and private disdain for human rights are a wake-up call. This is a moment to stand on the right side of history, Guterres said.

OHCHR determined last week that at least 8,000 civilians, including hundreds of children, have been killed since Russia invaded Ukraine last February, and another 13,000 or more have been injured.

The U.S. has been sending aid to Ukraine since the start of the war, and moved last month to commit to sending battle tanks to Kyiv. President Biden made a surprise visit to Ukraine last week to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, pledge additional support and drum up international aid efforts as the war bores on into its second year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Feb. 27 that the Russian invasion of Ukraine had triggered "the most massive violations of human rights we are living (through) today."

He made the statement at an event to commemorate the 75-year anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

The UDHR was ratified by U.N. member states in 1948 to establish a universal definition of human rights that transcends political ideology, ethnicity, religion, or any other potentially dividing factors. Guterres called on governments to uphold the declaration.

Guterres added that Russia's war has "unleashed widespread death, destruction, and displacement" and that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has already documented numerous cases of Russian soldiers using sexual violence against Ukrainian men, women, and children.

The OHCHR published the latest casualty figures from the war on Feb. 13. There are 18,955 civilian casualties across the country, including 7,199 killed and 11,756 injured. However, the casualty numbers may be much higher, since it is not possible to gather data from the temporarily occupied territories or areas under heavy fighting.

Russian-organized torture chambers that held both Ukrainian civilians and soldiers have been found in numerous villages, towns, and cities liberated by the Ukrainian army.










Live streamer Tan Jiajia (R) promotes and sells local agricultural specialties via livestreaming at an online platform in Tongliang district of Southwest China's Chongqing municipality, Sept 2, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua]



Chinese platform companies are doubling down on cutting-edge digital technologies to seek new drivers in revenue growth and bolster industrial upgrade, as the country puts greater emphasis on promoting the in-depth integration of the digital and real economies, experts and company executives said.

Despite the gloomy global outlook and mounting uncertainties, China's platform economy is playing an increasingly vital role in propelling technological innovation and high-quality development, as well as giving strong impetus to economic recovery worldwide, they added.

During an earnings conference with investors via telephone on Thursday, Zhang Yong, chairman and CEO of Alibaba Group, said that cloud computing is one of the company's core strategies for the future, and Alibaba Cloud is also the foundation through which the company serves the real economy and drives the integration of the digital and real economies.

Noting that this is a critical period for technological breakthroughs and development in cloud computing and artificial intelligence, Zhang said he believed in the vast potential of industrial digitalization and the role of cloud computing as the pivot of the digital economy.

Revenue in the cloud business, Alibaba's main growth driver besides e-commerce, reached 20.18 billion yuan ($2.9 billion) during the October-December period, an increase of 3 percent year-on-year, mainly driven by public cloud growth.

The company is ramping up efforts to make use of digital technologies to help small and medium-sized enterprises and speed up industrial transformation in an effort to better empower the real economy.

The tone-setting Central Economic Work Conference in mid-December said that platform companies will be supported to "fully display their capabilities" in bolstering economic growth, job creation and international competition. The conference also emphasized the need to vigorously develop the digital economy.

Platform enterprises, which are among the key enablers of technological innovation, will usher in a new round of development, fueled by the government's support for the platform economy, said Pan Helin, co-director of the Digital Economy and Financial Innovation Research Center at Zhejiang University's International Business School.

They are expected to play a bigger role in stabilizing economic growth, optimizing the allocation of resources, improving people's livelihoods and expanding employment, as well as invest more in state-of-the-art technologies that serve the real economy, Pan added.

Xu Lei, CEO of Chinese e-commerce platform JD, said he has full confidence in China's economic recovery this year as the country accelerates its push to integrate digital technologies with the real economy.

"Looking ahead, we will further increase investment, strengthen our capacities in supply chain infrastructure and promote the transformation and upgrading of more traditional industries," Xu said.

JD has invested more than 90 billion yuan in basic science and technology R&D, and is committed to building smart supply chain systems.

"Emerging digital technologies, such as AI, cloud computing, 5G, big data and the internet of things, are gaining momentum and finding a wide range of applications across various industries, such as manufacturing and agriculture," said Long Haibo, a senior researcher at the Development Research Center of the State Council, China's Cabinet.

Facilitating the development of platform companies and the digital economy is of great significance in cultivating new driving forces, pushing forward intelligent transformation in enterprises and fostering high-quality and innovation-driven development, Long said.

The senior researcher added that further efforts are needed to pool more resources in core technologies and gain a competitive edge in key fields.

The scale of China's digital economy reached 45.5 trillion yuan in 2021, ranking second in the world and accounting for 39.8 percent of the country's GDP, according to a white paper released by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology.

Ding Lei, CEO of Chinese internet and online gaming services provider NetEase, said the company has invested heavily in AI, digital twin, blockchain and other frontier technologies, as part of a broader push to continuously bolster the integration of the real and digital economies and to support the development of intelligent manufacturing.
Bhaskar: We got regularly accused, and still do, of it being an anti-white show, anti-British (Anthony Harvey/Shutterstock)

Since that finale, Unforgotten star Sanjeev Bhaskar has been bombarded with questions. A lot of people on Twitter were saying to me, Why did she have to die?, Why couldnt she have just retired and lived with her boyfriend? He is talking, of course, about DCI Cassie Stuart  his indomitable sidekick in the cop drama, played by Nicola Walker, who was killed off in the fourth seasons final episode.

The pair were a detective duo with a special spark, the beating heart of the show since it first aired on ITV in 2015. For many, the idea of the series without Cassie and Bhaskars DI Sunil Sunny Khan is unthinkable. The shock twist left fans in tears  she never recovered from a car accident. But now the hit police procedural returns for a fifth series, and Sunny has  sniff  a brand new partner. How did Bhaskar take the news that Walker would be written out of the show? She was the one, in fact, to first inform him of her surprise exit.

I didnt have to fake a level of emotional response to it [in the show] because it was really sad, recalls Bhaskar gravely. The Olivier award-winning Walker, who reportedly felt guilty about how gloomy her characters departure was in 2021, said that if they had known about the oncoming Covid pandemic, they would have chosen a more upbeat ending. But Bhaskar, 59, believes, lifes not like that... lifes really horrible sometimes.

The Irish actor Sinead Keenan takes over the reins as DCI Jessica Jess James, Sunnys new boss. She is all guns blazing on her first day at work, immediately putting his nose out of joint with her cost-cutting plans and bossy no-nonsense attitude. We dont need to worry about disliking her; Sunny does that for us. Jess has our sympathies, though: shes been dumped by her husband exactly 54 minutes before starting her new job. Shes struggling emotionally  as is Sunny. By the end of the first episode, hes losing his cool and uncharacteristically kicking the toilet cubicles. He kind of doesnt know what to do with that weird energy that grief brings, says Bhaskar. Hes always been Cassies rock.

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In person, the actor has such a calm aura that its as though hes been meditating all morning. Dressed in a chunky knit cardigan, his beard neatly groomed, he brings warmth even to the soulless backroom at the ITV headquarters in west London where we are speaking. A younger audience might know him best as Sunny, but it was hit BBC sketch show Goodness Gracious Me that made him a household name 25 years ago. It memorably lampooned British Asian stereotypes, in sketches such as the famous Going for an English send-up, and Bhaskars recurring character Mr Everything Comes from India. The show was the first of its kind, featuring an ensemble of British Asian actors, including his future wife, Meera Syal, and by 1988 it had moved from Radio 4 to primetime TV, as part of an explosion of British Asian culture in the 1990s.

Goodness Gracious Me is significant in the same way that Rishi Sunak is, as the first person of colour to become prime minister in this country, he says, recalling the show that launched his career. I think as much as these are landmark moments, and that there is some impact on society, equally, it reveals a latent racism in people.

We got regularly accused, and still do, of it being an anti-white show, anti-British. These people are making fun of us, and they should be grateful to us that we gave them a home, says Bhaskar. The reaction, he believes, is similar to how some people view Sunak. They will kind of go, Well wait a minute. Hes the wrong colour to be representing my country.

Bhaskars DI Sunny Khan and Nicola Walkers DCI Cassie Stuart had been the beating heart of ITVs Unforgotten until Cassie was killed off in the season four finale (ITV)

Throughout our conversation, Bhaskar is so earnest that its almost hard to believe hes the same man who could produce a laugh a minute in his early skits. He was 32 when he quit his job as a marketing executive at IBM in order to do musical comedy with college friend Nitin Sawhney, under the name The Secret Asians. Despite the corporate start to his career, he had known that he wanted to act from the age of four, having been glued to his TV set as a child idolising Roger Moores James Bond, Monty Pythons Life of Brian and Benny Hill  although he later realised how the comedian objectified women.

His childhood comedy heroes clearly inspired him to make shows like Goodness Gracious Me and The Kumars at No 42  the Emmy Award-winning sitcom. He starred as a spoof chat show host in the series  reportedly a favourite of the late Queen  which ran on the BBC for six seasons from 2001, before being briefly revived by Sky in 2014. A cringy evening introducing a girlfriend to his Punjabi parents inspired Bhaskar to make the show, in which he interviewed celebrity guests from Daniel Radcliffe to Minnie Driver in his front room at home in Wembley. Surrounding him was his interfering fictional British-Asian family, who spent more time talking to his guests than he did.

The Kumars at No 42 was reflecting our experiences of being British and Asian and being unapologetic for being both

When guest Jennifer Saunders appeared in 2004, Bhaskars onscreen granny, Sushila Ummi played by Syal, says slowly, in a tell-tale voice: Jennifer, Sanjeev said that he doesnt think women are funny. The comment goes down like a lead balloon  but it gets some laughs. It was reflecting our experiences of being British and Asian and being unapologetic for being both, recalls Bhaskar.

He was to later move into dramatic roles  including a turn as the high-flying Delhi GP in BBC period comedy The Indian Doctor in 2010. In the show, Bhaskars Dr Sharma relocates to Wales in the 1960s and cant get to grips with his new community. But, even in more serious parts, theres always something comforting about him, from the absent-minded Dr Jafri in Paddington 2 (2017) or the oblivious father of Himesh Patels Jack Malik in Danny Boyles Yesterday (2019), with Syal playing his wife. His pointy-eared Cain in the hit Netflix adaptation of Neil Gaimans The Sandman (2021) is as blackly humorous as he is murderous, as he tries to kill his brother Abel, who refuses to stay dead. Bhaskar is also set to play the lead in BritBoxs forthcoming Inspector Singh drama, playing Singapores top detective who is unfit and loves a curry. Its a three-part adaptation of Shamini Flints book series, Inspector Singh Investigates.

Growing up, the Ealing-born Bhaskar lived above a launderette in Hounslow with his parents  his mum, Janak, and his dad Inderjit, a factory worker. His father had sacrificed his dream of becoming a film director to support his widowed sister and her four children. It was when Bhaskar was about 15, he says, that he started having a rough time with racism at his local state school. But finding the comedy in it helped him to get a new perspective and shaped his career.

Bhaskar became a household name 25 years ago in his BBC sketch show Goodness Gracious Me with his future wife Meera Syal  the show memorably lampooned British Asian stereotypes (Source)

I got the why dont you go back home thing, he says. The P*** stuff was going on anyway, you got that on the way to school, as a matter of course, from other kids and adults. Bhaskar later found himself isolated by the Asian kids; they told him not to talk to white people anymore.

I said, Well, given you know which country were living in, and which continent were in, that might be quite difficult, recalls Bhaskar, who now lives in north London with Syal, whom he married in 2005, and their son Shann, 18. They told me, Youre either with us or against us.

He could see how ridiculous the situation was, which, he says, gave him a choice over how to react to it. Their chant for me was white man when I walked by, says Bhaskar. And I remember thinking, that is so lame. I mean, I would have come up with something better than that, he chuckles.

Bhaskar as the spoof chat show host in The Kumars at No 42, which ran on the BBC for six series from 2001, interviewed stars including Daniel Radcliffe (Source)

Racism didnt stop there. Early on in Bhaskars career at an audition for the detective series Frost with David Jason in the mid-1990s, he was asked to read the part of a 33-year-old man who had been hit over the head and robbed in a post office.

I read the lines and they said, Yeah, could you do it in an Indian accent? And I said, Oh, I didnt realise the character had just come from India because thats not in the script. And they said, No, he hasnt. And I said, Well my cousin runs a post office. And so I dont understand where the accent thing is coming from? And they said, Well, the way youre doing it, we just dont think its very Asian. And I said, Well, Ive been an Asian for 34 years. How about you? says Bhaskar.

He didnt get the job. While the scenario sounds like it could have come straight out of a Goodness Gracious Me sketch, Bhaskar is more pragmatic. I dont think they were being necessarily horrible or nasty or mean, says Bhaskar with a compassionate glint in his eye. It was just ignorance.

Bhaskar as the pointy-eared Cain in Netflixs adaptation of Neil Gaimans The Sandman in 2021 (Netflix)

By the time he got the role in Unforgotten, things were very different. I dont think I would have been called up for Unforgotten had [creator] Chris Lang not written the character Sunny Khan  but hes not representative of his culture. You know, Chris didnt go, I think Ill stick an Asian character in this because I think its important to have diversity. He did it because its part of our society. So, I think, the credit goes to him.

Now, though, the show must continue without Walker  but Cassies ghost is lurking through the first episode, and Keenans Jessica has a big pair of shoes to fill. Im curious as to whether returning for series five felt, to Bhaskar, almost like starting a new job.

I miss Nicola [Walker] because shes such a good friend... [but] part of the story this time is that Cassie is not there, and Sunny is trying to deal with it. So, in that sense, it kind of felt like thats just my job, he says. My job is to tell the story. Bhaskar is getting back to work  just like Sunny.

Unforgotten airs 27 February at 9pm on ITV1
Union Pacific Corp (NYSE: UNP) Chief Executive Officer Lance Fritz would step down this year after hedge fund Soroban Capital Partners called for him to be replaced.

Soroban Capital Partners, a New York hedge fund, disclosed a letter to Union Pacific directors pushing for the change, arguing that the company has underperformed on Mr. Fritz's watch.

The Wall Street Journal earlier reported on the letter.

Union Pacific reported a lower-than-expected fourth-quarter profit, hurt by a labor shortage and the impact of extreme winter weather.

Union Pacific expects to name a successor this year, and Fritz said he looked forward to working with the board to find a new CEO.

"Union Pacific has been my home for 22 years, and I am confident that now is the right time for Union Pacific's next leader to take the helm," Fritz said without elaborating on the reasons for his decision.

In the letter, Soroban Capital called for Fritz to be replaced, saying he had lost the confidence of shareholders, employees, customers, and regulators.

The hedge fund said it had a "long-held view that current management is not capable of driving strong operating performance" and saw "a heightened risk of permanent damage to the franchise if left unaddressed."

Soroban urged Union Pacific to consider former Chief Operating Officer Jim Vena as a possible replacement for Fritz, saying, "no internal candidates are remotely as qualified."

The hedge fund said a change in leadership could generate about $18 of earnings per share in 2025.

Union Pacific said that it was looking for a new CEO capable of leading the company for a long-term tenure.

As part of the board's succession planning process, it had considered shareholder input and would continue to do so, and had been engaging with Soroban Capital since 2017.
UPMC and James Luketich, MD, chair of UPMCs Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, and UPMCs practice group, have agreed to pay the federal government $8.5 million to settle a lawsuit alleging fraud and risk of patient harm.

PREVOUS COVERAGE: U.S. files suit against UPMC, surgeon, and physicians practice group for violating false claims act

The lawsuit was filed under the False Claims Act in 2019 by surgeon Jonathan DCunha, MD, the current chair of Cardiothoracic Surgery at Mayo Clinic, Arizona, and formerly a cardiothoracic surgeon and vice chair of Cardiothoracic Surgery at UPMC.

The complaint was based on a two-year investigation into allegations that they knowingly submitted hundreds of false claims for payment to Medicare, Medicaid, and other government health programs over the past six years.

The complaint also alleged that Luketich, who regularly performs as many as three complex surgical procedures at the same time, failed to participate in all the key and critical portions of his surgeries, and forced patients to endure hours of medically unnecessary anesthesia as he moved between operating rooms and to other patients.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: US government suit against UPMC and star surgeon moves forward

The regulation here is a billing requirement, but it also protects patient safety, and the billing requirement is that teaching hospitals cant bill for more than one surgery at a time where the critical portions of the surgery overlap, and basically the regulation says the government wont pay for the additional surgery if the two of them overlap in that important way, said Claire Sylvia, Partner at Phillips and Cohen LLP.

Sylias firm represented DCunha, and she told Channel 11 that theyre pleased with the outcome.

This is an important settlement in our view, both for the taxpayers but also for patients, she said.

In addition to the multi-million dollar payment, the defendants also agreed to create and effectuate a Corrective Action Plan for Dr. Luketich, and to submit a year-long, third-party audit of the doctors billings to Medicare.

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A news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office adds pursuant to the Settlement Agreement, UPMC, in turn, has the ability to request information, guidance, assurance and/or an advisory opinion from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the Department of Health and Human Services regarding certain Medicare regulations pertaining to the types of surgeries at issue in the case.

Paul Wood, vice president and CCO of UPMC, released the following statement on behalf of UPMC:

UPMC and its world-renowned cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. James Luketich, have reached a settlement with the federal government to resolve a False Claims action challenging UPMCs billing for some of Dr. Luketichs most complicated, team-based surgical procedures. At issue was compliance with the CMSs Teaching Physician Regulation and related billing guidance as well as with UPMCs internal surgical policies. Among other terms, the parties agreed that UPMC could seek clarity from CMS regarding how it should bill for such surgeries. While UPMC continues to believe Dr. Luketichs surgical practice complies with CMSs requirements, it has agreed to pay $8.5 million to the government to avoid the distraction and expense of further litigation. UPMC has also reserved the right to challenge the relators share of the settlement.

A statement from Dr. Luketichs personal attorney, Efrem M. Grail, reads Were pleased this settlement puts an end to the Governments case. Medical schools and their hospitals have sought clarity about the billing regulation for teaching physicians at issue here for years, and the United States has never provided it. This settlement provides a mechanism we hope will lead to authoritative guidance so that universally respected surgeons like Dr. Luketich can return their focus to training young doctors to save lives without having to put up with baseless claims of fraud.

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American military

"We can confirm the deaths of U.S. citizens in Ukraine," a State Department spokesman said.

"We are in touch with their respective families and providing all possible consular assistance."

Read also: International Legion confirms death of British volunteer captured by Russia

28-year-old Andrew Peters joined the International Legion of Ukraine, which was created by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to allow foreign citizens to join the fight against the Russian invasion forces.

The parents of the fallen volunteer said that Andrew "had a strong sense of what was right and wrong," so he felt the need to use his previous combat skills "to help the Ukrainian people fight and liberate their country."

Read also: Two UK volunteers killed in Soledar

"Andrew was extremely close to his fellow soldiers and was well-liked by everyone," said his parents.

"We are all extremely proud of his bravery and selfless sacrifice."

The American had previously also served in Afghanistan.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The State Department on Monday confirmed that an American citizen was among those killed in attacks in the West Bank.

Sadly, I can confirm that a U.S. citizen was killed in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight. I pray for his family, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides said on Twitter.

State Department spokesperson Ned Price told reporters Monday the individual killed near Jericho was a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen.

The United States is extremely concerned by the events of this weekend and the continuing violence in Israel and the West Bank, Price said.

Neither the ambassador nor the State Department identified the Israeli-American who was killed.

According to Reuters, the killing was part of several drive-by shootings conducted by Palestinians along a highway amid escalating violence this week.

Two Israeli settlers were shot dead on Sunday, reportedly by a Palestinian gunman, prompting other settlers to storm through part of the West Bank.

The State Department later condemned the killings and the wide-scale, indiscriminate violence by settlers against Palestinian civilians.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Nandita Bose

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Joe Biden on Monday praised the contribution of African Americans in the United States at an event to celebrate "Black History Month," something presidents from both parties have done for decades.

"History matters and Black history matters," Biden said to an audience of Black Congress members and government officials. Americans "can't just choose to learn what we want to know," Biden said. They need to learn "the good, the bad, the truth and who we are as a nation," he said.

His remarks from the White House's East Room come as some conservative Republicans, most notably Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, are pushing for changes to the way Black history is taught in U.S. schools. DeSantis is a possible Republican presidential candidate in 2024.

Florida is also one of roughly 18 U.S. states that in recent years banned the teaching of critical race theory, a graduate-level concept that examines systemic racism.

"We will not as a nation build a better future for America by trying to erase America's past," Vice President Kamala Harris said before Biden's remarks.

Last week, Biden convened families of people killed in hate crimes for a screening of the movie "Till," about Emmett Till, the 14-year-old Black boy whose murder in 1955 galvanized the civil rights movement.

About 50 million Americans, or some 15% of the U.S. population, identify as "Black alone" or "with another race," the U.S. Census Bureau said in 2021.

Presidents in the past have often used the occasion of Black History Month to note the unfulfilled promises made to Black Americans.

Ronald Reagan declared the month a holiday in a 1986 proclamation, saying "the American experience and character can never be fully grasped until the knowledge of black history assumes its rightful place in our schools and our scholarship."

Many Americans "struggle," Reagan noted, "for full and unfettered recognition of the constitutional rights of all."

Noting the celebration's 2008 theme honoring historian Carter G. Woodson and the "Origins of Multiculturalism," then-President George W. Bush in a speech: "Our Nation is now stronger and more hopeful because generations of leaders like him have worked to help America live up to its promise of equality and the great truth that all of God's children are created equal."

(Reporting by Nandita Bose and Heather Timmons, editing by Deepa Babington)
There would be "real costs" for China if the country decides to provide Russia with lethal aid for its full-scale war against Ukraine, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN.

"From our perspective, this war presents real complications for Beijing. And Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance," Sullivan said. "But, if it goes down that road, it will come at real costs to China."

He added that the U.S. was "laying out both the stakes and the consequences" of such a decision in diplomatic talks with China. "And we are doing that clearly and specifically behind closed doors."

There have been multiple reports recently that China may be considering supplying lethal weapons to Russia, but the country has not made a decision yet, according to CIA Director Bill Burns.

In an attempt to deter China from going forward with the provision, U.S. President Joe Biden administration is making the information public, similar to what it did in the months leading up to Russia's full-scale invasion, Burns told CBS News on Feb. 24.

On the one-year anniversary of Russia's all-out war against Ukraine, China's Foreign Ministry released a 12-point statement that detailed Beijing's stance on achieving a "political settlement" to resolve the war.

In an interview with ABC News, Biden dismissed China's peace plan, noting that it would likely only work in Russia's favor.

During a press conference in Tallinn on Feb. 24, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg cast doubt on China's proposed peace plan for Ukraine, pointing to China's failure to explicitly condemn the Russian invasion.






U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visited Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelensky on Feb. 27, Ukraine's presidential office reported.

According to the press release, Yellen and Zelensky discussed the role of the private sector in rebuilding destroyed Ukrainian infrastructure and Ukraine's relationship with the International Monetary Fund.

Zelensky also expressed gratitude to Yellen for the U.S. sanctions already imposed on Russia but emphasized the need for ongoing sanctions and a way to redirect frozen Russian assets to post-war reconstruction efforts.






Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Janet Yellen in Kyiv on February 27, 2023

Read also: Ukraine receives first EUR 3 billion tranche of EU macro financial aid

According to the press service of Ukraines Finance Ministry, Ukraine received a tranche of $1.25 billion from the United States.

Zelenskyy thanked the United States for its support and noted Washingtons decision to allocate $9.9 billion in direct budget assistance to Ukraine in 2023.

The president and secretary Yellen also discussed cooperation with the IMF and the restoration of Ukrainian infrastructure destroyed by Russian invaders. Zelenskyy stressed the necessity to create mechanisms that will allow the seized Russian assets to be used for post-war reconstruction of Ukraine.

PM Shmyhal reported via Telegram that and Yellen discussed financial support for Ukraine, sanctions against Russia, war risk insurance, and confiscation of frozen Russian assets.

Read also: Zelenskyy prepares new weapons wish list for US consideration  media

Our American partners have pledged to provide Ukraine with more than $10 billion in budget support by September, he wrote.

Read also: Zelenskyy admits to worsening of his eyesight  documentary

In addition, the United States allocated $1.5 billion for a quick recovery, and another $1.1 billion for the energy sectors of Ukraine and Moldova.

Read also: Ukrainian and US top military commanders discuss Kyivs air defense needs

Yellen tweeted that she arrived in Kyiv "to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine, discuss ways we can continue our support  including through economic assistance  and pay tribute to the bravery of the Ukrainian people a year after Russia's unprovoked invasion.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Federal Communications Commission and Ukraine's telecom regulator on Monday said they have signed a new memorandum of understanding to cooperate on telecommunications infrastructure resilience, 5G and other related security issues.

The FCC and Ukraine's National Commission for the State Regulation of Electronic Communications, Radio Frequency Spectrum and the Provision of Postal Services of Ukraine (NCEC) announced the formal partnership at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. NCEC Commissioner Liliia Malon noted the agreement's importance given Ukraine's damaged telecom infrastructure after Russia's 2022 invasion, while FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel assured of U.S. support.

"The United States is a friend and a partner for a strong, safe, independent, and prosperous Ukraine," she said. "This includes communications policy and we are committed to supporting and listening to our friends and partners in Kyiv."

The U.S.-based Starlink satellite internet service operated by SpaceX has been critical for Ukraine's military and other parts of the country.

SpaceX reached an agreement with the Ukrainian government to use the service for humanitarian purposes such as providing broadband internet to hospitals, banks and families affected by Russia's invasion.

SpaceX said this month it had taken steps to prevent Ukraine's military from using the service for controlling drones in the region.

"We know the military is using them for comms, and that's OK," Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX's president and chief operating officer, said during a conference. "But our intent was never to have them use it for offensive purposes."

SpaceX has privately shipped truckloads of Starlink terminals to Ukraine, allowing the country's military to communicate by plugging them in and connecting them with the nearly 4,000 satellites SpaceX has so far launched into low-Earth orbit.

Russia has attempted to jam Starlink signals in the region, which SpaceX countered by hardening the service's software, company chief Elon Musk has said.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Tomasz Janowski)
You are here: Business

Aerial photo taken on June 24, 2022 shows the headquarters of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL) and its manufacturing base in Ningde, east China's Fujian Province. [Photo/Xinhua]



China's lithium-ion battery industry sustained rapid growth in 2022, official data showed.

The total output of lithium-ion batteries exceeded 750 gigawatt-hours (GWh) last year, soaring 130 percent year on year, data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology revealed.

The total output value exceeded 1.2 trillion yuan (about 174.06 billion U.S. dollars) as the industrial scale further expanded last year.

China's robust lithium-ion battery output echoes the country's booming production of new energy vehicles (NEVs). The installed capacity of power batteries for NEVs came in at about 295 GWh last year.

Exports of lithium-ion battery products jumped 86.7 percent year on year to 342.65 billion yuan, according to the ministry.
Vice President Kamala Harris is promoting the Biden administrations achievements on broadband internet access during a visit to South Carolina, recently minted as the site of Democrats first presidential votes of the 2024 campaign.

Harris trip on Monday, her fourth to the early-voting state since becoming vice president, will highlight progress on the Administrations efforts to expand affordable high-speed internet nationwide, according to guidance from the White House.

But the trip to Columbia also comes as Democrats national attention hones in on South Carolina, where a landslide 2020 primary win gave Joe Biden the momentum to notch Super Tuesday wins and bounce several opponents from the race.

ALSO READ: VP Harris visits Charlotte, talks abortion, internet

Biden has repeatedly acknowledged the states pivotal role in his nomination as well as the significance of its heavily Black Democratic electorate. During remarks at a fundraiser last year, Harris thanked South Carolina Democrats, who set President Joe Biden and me on a path to the White House.

Late last year, Biden asked the Democratic National Committee to move the state to the top of the presidential primary voting calendar, which party officials did this month. Via its email lists, South Carolinas Democratic Party has already begun selling buttons, mugs and apparel flaunting the states new status with the tagline South Carolina Democrats Pick Winners.

But Harris appearance also comes as a debate swirls over whether Biden  who, at age 80, is the nations oldest president  should seek a second term in office, as is widely expected. According to a poll released this month from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, just 37% of Democrats said they wanted Biden to seek a second term.

Though hes long said its his intent to seek reelection, Biden has yet to make it official, struggling to dispel questions about whether hes too old to continue serving as president. In an exclusive interview last week with The Associated Press, first lady Jill Biden gave one of the clearest indications yet that her husband will run in 2024, saying that theres pretty much nothing left to do but figure out the time and place for the announcement.

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ALSO READ: The Political Beat: Haleys bid for the White House begins in Charleston

The Republican candidate field is already forming, with a focus on South Carolina, home to the first GOP presidential primary in the South. Former President Donald Trump held a campaign event in the Statehouse last month, and former Gov. Nikki Haley announced her candidacy in Charleston a few weeks later. Sen. Tim Scott is also mulling a potential bid.

Equalizing access to high-speed internet has been a priority for Biden, who in 2021 signed into law a $1 trillion infrastructure package that, alongside traditional public works projects like building roads and bridges, included $65 billion for broadband expansion.

Expanding broadband internet availability also has been a top priority for Rep. Jim Clyburn, one of the White Houses top Capitol Hill supporters and South Carolinas lone congressional Democrat. Clyburn, the chambers assistant Democratic leader, has long advocated for more widespread internet access nationwide, pushing for affordable, high-speed networks in rural communities.

Last week, Clyburn appeared alongside Republican Gov. Henry McMaster to announce the formation of a program  funded by the bipartisan infrastructure package  designed to identify the areas of greatest need in South Carolina and invest in broadband infrastructure.

VIDEO: VP Harris visits Charlotte, talks abortion, internet
A man was left beaten and bloody after a violent kidnapping, then he messaged one of his kidnappers on Instagram with an offer, federal prosecutors say.

First, he taunted the kidnapper awaiting trial, telling him to plead guilty like a man and accept a 10-year sentence in Instagram direct messages, court documents filed in federal court in Maryland show.

Minutes later, the man wrote [C]all me If you want to finesse trial and sent his phone number before deleting the messages, according to the court filings with screenshots of the messages.

The man also offered to either lie at the trial or refuse to show up in exchange for a $5,000 bribe, prosecutors said.

Your choice my boy, the man wrote to his kidnapper before bragging to his friend about the offer, saying Im auctioning off his freedom, according to prosecutors. He explained hed testify his kidnapper wasnt the guy if he was paid, prosecutors said.

Screenshots of Instagram messages the man sent one of his kidnappers, according to prosecutors.

The 28-year-old man who used to live in Fairfax, Virginia, was sentenced to one year and six months in prison on Feb. 24 after the government learned of the messages, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Maryland announced in a news release.

The kidnappers legal defense turned over the Instagram screenshots to prosecutors ahead of the trial, according to officials.

Stuart Berman, the mans attorney, described the case in a statement to McClatchy News on Feb. 27 as one of the most unusual cases hes seen in nearly 40 years of prosecuting and defending federal criminal cases.

Though his client helped secure guilty pleas from four of the five kidnappers, his Instagram messages to the fifth kidnapper resulted in his own prosecution, Berman said.

Initially, prosecutors sought a lengthier sentence of four years and six months in prison, a sentencing memo shows. Berman said his client was treated as an accessory after the fact to his own kidnapping and faced a sentence nearly as long as his kidnappers did.

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Berman added U.S. District Judge George J. Hazel ultimately recognized the cases extraordinary nature and he and his client are grateful for the lesser and reasonable sentence.

The fifth kidnapper, a 28-year-old from Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 10 years and six months in prison on Jan. 20 after pleading guilty to his role in the Feb. 3, 2021, kidnapping, prosecutors said.

McClatchy News contacted his attorneys for comment on Feb. 27 and didnt immediately receive a response.

How the kidnapping unfolded

Prosecutors in court documents describe the mans kidnapping as a drug deal gone wrong.

He met the kidnapper hed later try soliciting a bribe from, and another kidnapper, while gambling at a casino in Maryland where he had a hotel room, prosecutors said.

The kidnappers are accused of offering to sell the man cocaine, then luring him to a building in Washington, D.C., according to prosecutors.

After he was given the cocaine, the kidnappers drove him to a parking lot where they beat and robbed him, prosecutors said. Then, they took him inside the closet of a nearby buildings basement and held him at gunpoint, according to prosecutors.

As he was held captive, the kidnappers are accused of stealing items from his hotel room after seizing his room key. They released him when they were done, and officers later found the man bleeding from his forehead, prosecutors said.

After a federal investigation was launched into the mans kidnapping, prosecutors wrote in the sentencing memo that the government employed the criminal justice system to keep the Defendant safe. The Defendant, however, tried to exploit the criminal justice system for his financial benefit.

In documents submitted by Berman, he explained how the stress of the aftermath of his kidnapping caused his client to drink heavily. He wrote that his client messaged his kidnapper on Instagram during a drunken episode  ultimately transforming him from a cooperating witness into defendant.

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HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam's National Assembly will hold an extraordinary meeting this week, a session that officials and diplomats expect to confirm the appointment of a new president amid a leadership reshuffle prompted by a sweeping crackdown on graft.

Multiple officials and diplomats said the new president, a largely ceremonial role, would be Vo Van Thuong, who, at 52, is currently the youngest member of the party's Politburo, the country's highest decision-making body.

His appointment comes amid an anti-corruption campaign, dubbed the "blazing furnace", under which hundreds of officials have been investigated and many top political figures have been dismissed, including two deputy prime ministers.

Thuong is seen as being close to Vietnam's most powerful figure, General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, who is the main architect of the anti-graft campaign.

The president in Vietnam is among the top four political figures in the country, together with the party's general secretary, the prime minister and the head of the national assembly.

Parliament will hold an out-of-session meeting this week, according to information posted on the portals of the local governments of the southern provinces of Khanh Hoa and Binh Phuoc. The latter said the extraordinary session would start on Wednesday.

Parliament and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is in charge of communications on behalf of the government, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The next regular session of parliament is scheduled in May.

One Vietnamese official said the assembly's meeting would follow the party's decision, expected in the first half of this week, to name a new president.

Last month, the country's president Nguyen Xuan Phuc suddenly resigned after the ruling Communist Party blamed him for "violations and wrongdoing" by officials under his control.

The current acting president is Vo Thi Anh Xuan, who was the deputy president when Phuc resigned.

(Reporting by Phuong Nguyen and Francesco Guarascio @fraguarascio; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
By Phuong Nguyen

HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnamese electric vehicle maker VinFast has cut the lease price for its first model shipped to the United States by more than 50% for its first customers in California, with delivery starting this week, according to the company and emails to customers reviewed by Reuters.

VinFast, a subsidiary of conglomerate Vingroup JSC, had said in January its first VF8 all-electric crossovers would be available to lease at a monthly payment of $599 for 24 months.

Its website showed as of Monday a monthly lease price of $399 for the vehicle for a 24-month lease.

VinFast told people who had already paid a refundable deposit on the car that the payment would be $274 per month in California, the first U.S. state to receive the vehicles, according to messages to those potential buyers reviewed by Reuters.

That amounts to a discount of between 33% and 54% from the initially advertised monthly lease price.

"This is our special offer to VinFast customers for the VF 8 City Edition models in order to stay competitive with other brands," VinFast said in a statement.

"We will officially deliver the VF 8 City Edition vehicles to customers on March 1," it said, without specifying the number of units in the 999 batch shipped to California late last year.

The move represents the latest sign of increased price competition by EV makers. Tesla, the global EV leader, cut prices globally by up to 20% in January, although it has increased prices on some models and in some markets by smaller margins since.

The Biden administration's EV credits, which took effect at the start of the year, have also changed the calculus for automakers and U.S. consumers.

Electric vehicles like those made by Tesla in North America qualify for a consumer tax credit of $7,500. Businesses, including the finance companies that underwrite car leases, can also claim a credit of up to $7,500 for EVs if the cars are sold by one of the companies certified by the IRS.

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VinFast was not listed as one of the 39 "qualified manufacturers" on the IRS list as of Monday.

VinFast said earlier this month that US Bancorp would provide lease financing for the company's sales in the United States.

Vehicle subscription service Autonomy has a deal with VinFast to purchase 2,500 EVs, the companies said in November.

In a separate statement, VinFast's chairwoman Le Thi Thu Thuy said VinFast expected to deliver EVs in Canada, France, Germany and the Netherlands, following its deliveries in the U.S. market.

The VF 8 City Edition comes in both Eco and Plus trim with an EPA-rated range of 207 miles (333 km) and 191 miles (307 km) respectively, the company said.

The company has filed for an initial public offering in the United States and plans to build an EV assembly factory in North Carolina.

(Additional reporting by Kevin Krolicki in Singapore; Editing by Sam Holmes, Martin Petty)
Vivek Ramaswamy in Philadelphia Lisa Lake/Getty Images

There's a new Republican candidate for president  but he's somebody you might not have heard of. Politico reports that 37-year-old Vivek Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur and "self-described intellectual godfather of the anti-woke movement," has thrown his hat into the ring. Ramaswamy made his case in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, writing "I am running on a vision for our nation  one that revives merit in every sphere of American life." America has forgotten about merit, he asserts, in favor of affirmative action and politically correct censorship by Big Tech companies. Who is Vivek Ramaswamy? And does he have a real shot at becoming president? Here's everything you need to know:

Who is Vivek Ramaswamy?

He is the son of immigrants from South India. The New Yorker reports that Ramaswamy grew up in the Cincinnati area, then graduated from Harvard College and Yale Law School. He then worked for a hedge fund before founding a biotech company, Roivant Sciences. The company made "hundreds of millions of dollars," but its signature effort  by a subsidiary called Axovant, to bring an Alzheimer's drug to market  failed. (The company announced this week Ramaswamy has stepped down from its board of directors.) Ramaswamy called it "the single greatest failure of my career" in a 2017 interview with Forbes. He's stayed in business, launching a Peter Thiel-backed financial firm that invests in businesses that emphatically disregard so-called "environmental, social and governance" (ESG) standards that have become the bane of conservatives. In recent years, he has increasingly turned to conservative punditry, writing op-eds for the Wall Street Journal and making multiple appearances on Fox News.

Is he really a leader of the 'anti-woke' movement?

He's certainly been vocal on the topic. "His focus on wokeness supersedes all else," the New Republic notes. In 2021 he authored a book, Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam, which attacked big corporations for ESG investing and diversity initiatives at the expense of delivering profit to their shareholders. One of his central theories is that progressive anti-racist and climate-friendly "wokeness" is literally and legally a religion. "If wokeness is really a religion, then forcing employees to actually bow to this new religion is a violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964," he told Fox News in 2021. And he asserts that the new "secular religion" is taking the place of traditional values like patriotism, faith, and hard work. Such themes will be central to his campaign: Ramaswamy says as president he'll repeal federal affirmative action policies and "abandon climate religion."

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His campaign announcement video gives the flavor of his message:

"We have obsessed so much over our diversity and differences, that we forgot about all the ways we're really just the same as Americans," he says in the video.

What do his critics say?

That he's a hypocrite. The New Republic points out that Ramaswamy has made China a central talking point in his writing and Fox News appearances  but that Roivant did business in China under Ramaswamy's leadership. (The company says Roivant is "not currently active in China.") While he has called for the U.S. to "decouple" from China  and for a ban on American companies doing business there  "the industry where he made his name and tens of millions of dollars  remains deeply interwoven with the country."

What are Republicans saying?

Fox News suggests he could be "the conservative Andrew Yang"  another entrepreneurial child of immigrants who made a splash in the Democratic primaries in 2020. Americans for Prosperity's Greg Moore told the channel that "first-generation Americans tend to be some of the optimistic people you will find, and Vivek definitely has that space." One columnist, Indiana Business Journal's Curt Smith, noted Ramaswamy's youth and suggested he has a better shot at the 2024 U.S. Senate race in Ohio, but added that "Ramaswamy is a future force for conservative values and views."

What are his odds of actually winning the GOP?

Not great. "Ramaswamy would be a long-shot candidate in what is likely to be a crowded Republican primary," National Review points out. How long a shot? It's difficult to say: Ramaswamy wasn't even listed among the GOP contenders in a recent Morning Consult poll, which showed Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as the only candidates  declared or otherwise  mustering even double-digit support among Republican voters. And Axios notes that Ramaswamy's messaging is similar to that of DeSantis who "has made this a central part of his political identity  and has achieved notable governing successes on that front." But again, Ramaswamy is just 37, so his political career may just be getting started.

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Waco Branch Davidians

A spotlight shines over the Branch Davidian compound near Waco, Texas on March 22, 1993. Credit - Rick BowmerAP

Antigovernment militias have made Waco a code word for federal overreach. Even before the fiery end of the 1993 siege at the Branch Davidians compound south of Dallas, where David Koresh and more than 70 of his followers died, Army veteran Timothy McVeigh visited the site. A Koresh supporter, McVeigh sold bumper stickers reading FEAR THE GOVT THAT FEARS YOUR GUNS and A MAN WITH A GUN IS A CITIZEN, A MAN WITHOUT A GUN IS A SUBJECT. Two years later, McVeigh chose the anniversary of the Waco fire to bomb the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City.

Conspiracist Alex Jones led a fund drive to build a chapel on the site of the compound. No more Wacos! he shouted. Mike Vanderboegh, cofounder of the Three Percenters militia, warned, Waco can happen at any given time. But the outcome will be different next time. One of the insurgents arrested after the January 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol riots anticipated a battle with police he called Waco 2.0.

Thirty years after the siege that helped inspire todays militias, the site has become a tourist attraction. On a good day, more than a hundred visitors pass through the gates of a property near Waco that Google Maps still labels Branch Davidian Compound. There are families, curiosity seekers, and militia members making pilgrimages to one of the hubs of what many call the patriot movement.

Todays Mount Carmel is a chapel on a grassy floodplain near the corner of Elk Road and Double-EE Ranch Road. The gravel driveway leads past a row of red and green crepe myrtles. Survivors planted eighty-two of the trees in 1994, one for each Davidian who died during the siege. Today there are eighty-one: the current pastor, Charles Pace, chopped down the tree dedicated to David Koresh.

One Sunday not long ago, a breeze rustled the crepe myrtles leaves. Dog-day cicadas chirred. Black Angus cattle grazed on the neighbors ranch across the fence. The church, sporting a fresh coat of paint, looked as clean and white as on the day it first opened its doors in 2000. After almost a quarter century, it was still one of the top tourist attractions in McLennan County. The only sign of decay was the Davidians cement-lined swimming pool, now half-full of rainwater. Nearby, a placard identified a hole in the ground as the entrance to THE VAULT AREA WHERE MOTHERS & CHILDREN WERE GASSED TO DEATH. This was not a true factthe vault had been at ground level, not underground, and about ten yards away, and the mothers and children inside had burned to death, died of smoke inhalation, or been buried as the compound collapsed around them. But the empty space in the earth suited the mood of the place.

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Inside the chapel, ceiling fans stirred the heat. A whiteboard cited a verse from Psalm 77: I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times. I call to remembrance my song in the night . . . Hath God forgotten to be gracious? Hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? The board held a map of the Old City of Jerusalem. TodaysDavidiansthereare a couple dozen in Waco, several thousand scatteredaround Texas and the rest of the worldstillbelieve they are Gods chosen few. Many consider Koresh a false prophet, perhaps the antichrist. Others expect him to rise again in time for the Last Days.

Pastor Pace and his wife, Alexa, greeted visitors. He had a shaved head and a neatly trimmed beard. Her T-shirt read PRAY TO END ABORTION. Pastor Pace had split off from the sect in the 1980s. I saw through their delusions, he said in a hoarse voice. He returned to lead Wacos diminished flock in 2006. Now seventy-two, he gets around in a wheelchair and has a stainless-steel right leg, the result of a tractor accident that mangled his right foot.

The churchs walls held photos of Davidian leaders: Victor Houteff, Ben and Lois Roden, Koresh. Despite his doubts about his predecessor, Pace knows its Koresh most visitors want to hear about. Posters show Koreshs 1988 mug shot and aerial views of the compound before and after the fire. A memory book holds snapshots of the Davidians who died here in the ATF raid on February 28, 1993 and the fire fifty-one days later. Those too young to be photographed are remembered with cards showing their names and nationalities. Two of the cards read, Trauma born baby, American.

This small chapel stands on the spot of David Koresh's Branch Davidian compound that was stormed and subsequently burned to the gound by the FBI and ATF in April 1993, in Waco, Texas, June 9, 2001. Shawn ThewAFP/Getty Images

The Paces rely on donations. They also sell merchandise: GOD ROCKED FROM WACO T-shirts and postcards showing Koresh playing guitar, Trump flags and shirts emblazoned MR TRUMP YOU ARE MY PRESIDENT 20202024. Another shirt reads, PATRIOTS, REMEMBER THE ALAMO? AND FORGET NOT WACO! Posters showed Bill and Hillary Clinton with their fingers to their lipsShh!and Koresh wielding a rifle over a line directed at President Joe Biden: SLEEPY JOE, WAKE UP OR WACO! COME GET IT!

Pastor Pace works day and night to maintain the church and the grounds, host Sabbath services, and run a website that blames deep-state conspirators for the siege and fire of 93, a subsequent cover-up that led to the murder of Vince Foster, and more.

Koresh may have been a false prophet, but he was onto something, Pace said that day. Partially blind, he had a gray left eye that wandered while his blue right eye fixed a listener in an iron gaze. Thats why the Clintons couldnt let him live. He knew too much about the human trafficking, pedophilia, and gun-and cocaine-running the Clintons and Bushes were guilty of. The Davidians had built their swimming pool, he believed, to reclaim a desecrated spot after Koresh found evidence of a sex-slavery ring based in the cellar, though Koresh never mentioned such a thing.

This is all proven, said Pace. A website he built for the church, wacothebranchdavidianpropheciesfulfilled.info, featured a Star of David logo, posts including Why the Deep State Massacred David Koresh and his Followers, references to Republicans and Demonic-rats, and the QAnon hashtag WWG1 WGA (Where we go one, we go all). President George H. W. Bush, he said, was a pedophile and homosexual. As head of the CIA, Bush built tunnels under the White House. They found fifteen hundred dead children in those tunnels, dead from torture and sexual abuse. When they found out, Donald and Melania Trump cried for hours. And Donald Trump did the right thing: he had Bush arrested for his crimes. George Bush did not die of natural causes in 2018. They executed him for treason. This will all come out in the near future.

Like Koresh, Pastor Pace knew his Bible well enough to recite much of it from memory. Prophecy is real, he said. I trust in prophecy. Thats what has kept me sane, so to speak. He was tender with his adult sons, who helped with chores and still found an occasional spent bullet in the acres of grass around the church. Pace said they knew their father might sound unhinged to some, but he was not a hypocrite. He was a believer. He had chopped down the bush dedicated to Koresh because God told me to. He thanked God for the militia members who come to Mount Carmel from all over the country. The Holy Spirit leads them here. The Proud Boys were here, about thirty of them. They say Waco is the Alamo of the modern patriot movement. I told them, If David Koresh were here today, hed be one of you.

Adapted from Cooks new book, Waco Rising: David Koresh, the FBI, and the Birth of Americas Militias






Photo: Pfc. Rhita Daniel/U.S. Marine Corps

The U.S. military is intensifying its commitment to the development and use of autonomous weapons, as confirmed by an update to a Department of Defense directive. The update, released Jan. 25, 2023, is the first in a decade to focus on artificial intelligence autonomous weapons. It follows a related implementation plan released by NATO on Oct. 13, 2022, that is aimed at preserving the alliances technological edge in what are sometimes called killer robots.



Both announcements reflect a crucial lesson militaries around the world have learned from recent combat operations in Ukraine and Nagorno-Karabakh: Weaponized artificial intelligence is the future of warfare.

Read more

We know that commanders are seeing a military value in loitering munitions in Ukraine, Richard Moyes, director of Article 36, a humanitarian organization focused on reducing harm from weapons, told me in an interview. These weapons, which are a cross between a bomb and a drone, can hover for extended periods while waiting for a target. For now, such semi-autonomous missiles are generally being operated with significant human control over key decisions, he said.

The pressure of war

But as casualties mount in Ukraine, so does the pressure to achieve decisive battlefield advantages with fully autonomous weapons  robots that can choose, hunt down and attack their targets all on their own, without needing any human supervision.

This month, a key Russian manufacturer announced plans to develop a new combat version of its Marker reconnaissance robot, an uncrewed ground vehicle, to augment existing forces in Ukraine. Fully autonomous drones are already being used to defend Ukrainian energy facilities from other drones. Wahid Nawabi, CEO of the U.S. defense contractor that manufactures the semi-autonomous Switchblade drone, said the technology is already within reach to convert these weapons to become fully autonomous.

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Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraines digital transformation minister, has argued that fully autonomous weapons are the wars logical and inevitable next step and recently said that soldiers might see them on the battlefield in the next six months.



Proponents of fully autonomous weapons systems argue that the technology will keep soldiers out of harms way by keeping them off the battlefield. They will also allow for military decisions to be made at superhuman speed, allowing for radically improved defensive capabilities.

Currently, semi-autonomous weapons, like loitering munitions that track and detonate themselves on targets, require a human in the loop. They can recommend actions but require their operators to initiate them.

By contrast, fully autonomous drones, like the so-called drone hunters now deployed in Ukraine, can track and disable incoming unmanned aerial vehicles day and night, with no need for operator intervention and faster than human-controlled weapons systems.

Calling for a timeout

Critics like The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots have been advocating for more than a decade to ban research and development of autonomous weapons systems. They point to a future where autonomous weapons systems are designed specifically to target humans, not just vehicles, infrastructure and other weapons. They argue that wartime decisions over life and death must remain in human hands. Turning them over to an algorithm amounts to the ultimate form of digital dehumanization.

Together with Human Rights Watch, The Campaign to Stop Killer Robots argues that autonomous weapons systems lack the human judgment necessary to distinguish between civilians and legitimate military targets. They also lower the threshold to war by reducing the perceived risks, and they erode meaningful human control over what happens on the battlefield.

Photo: U.S. Army AMRDEC Public Affairs

The organizations argue that the militaries investing most heavily in autonomous weapons systems, including the U.S., Russia, China, South Korea and the European Union, are launching the world into a costly and destabilizing new arms race. One consequence could be this dangerous new technology falling into the hands of terrorists and others outside of government control.



The updated Department of Defense directive tries to address some of the key concerns. It declares that the U.S. will use autonomous weapons systems with appropriate levels of human judgment over the use of force. Human Rights Watch issued a statement saying that the new directive fails to make clear what the phrase appropriate level means and doesnt establish guidelines for who should determine it.

But as Gregory Allen, an expert from the national defense and international relations think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies, argues, this language establishes a lower threshold than the meaningful human control demanded by critics. The Defense Departments wording, he points out, allows for the possibility that in certain cases, such as with surveillance aircraft, the level of human control considered appropriate may be little to none.

The updated directive also includes language promising ethical use of autonomous weapons systems, specifically by establishing a system of oversight for developing and employing the technology, and by insisting that the weapons will be used in accordance with existing international laws of war. But Article 36s Moyes noted that international law currently does not provide an adequate framework for understanding, much less regulating, the concept of weapon autonomy.

The current legal framework does not make it clear, for instance, that commanders are responsible for understanding what will trigger the systems that they use, or that they must limit the area and time over which those systems will operate. The danger is that there is not a bright line between where we are now and where we have accepted the unacceptable, said Moyes.

An impossible balance?

The Pentagons update demonstrates a simultaneous commitment to deploying autonomous weapons systems and to complying with international humanitarian law. How the U.S. will balance these commitments, and if such a balance is even possible, remains to be seen.

The International Committee of the Red Cross, the custodian of international humanitarian law, insists that the legal obligations of commanders and operators cannot be transferred to a machine, algorithm or weapon system. Right now, human beings are held responsible for protecting civilians and limiting combat damage by making sure the use of force is proportional to military objectives.

If and when artificially intelligent weapons are deployed on the battlefield, who should be held responsible when needless civilian deaths occur? There isnt a clear answer to that very important question.

James Dawes is a professor of English at Macalester College. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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This video snapshot shows the Shenzhou-15 astronauts Fei Junlong, Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu sending their Spring Festival greetings from China's Tiangong space station in a video released by the China Manned Space Agency on New Year's Eve. [Photo/Xinhua]



China will start the selection and training process soon for foreign astronauts to participate in joint flights to the country's Tiangong space station, according to a high-ranking space official.

Chen Shanguang, deputy chief planner of China's manned space programs, told China Central Television on Saturday that multiple countries have told China that they hope to send their astronauts to the Tiangong station.

"We will soon begin to select candidates from those nations for joint flights to our space station, and they will be able to work with our astronauts to carry out scientific tasks in space," Chen said.

Once the candidates pass the initial selection process, they will come to China to receive systematic and extensive training to learn how to operate Chinese spacecraft and live and work inside the Tiangong station, according to Chen.

"We also hope that the foreign candidates can gain some knowledge about Chinese culture because they will be onboard a Chinese space station. Moreover, we hope that cultural exchanges between foreign and Chinese astronauts will help with their flight," he said.

Pang Zhihao, an expert on space exploration technology and a renowned writer on spaceflight, said on Sunday that one of the most important criteria for the foreign candidates is their Chinese-language skill.

"The work language on the International Space Station is English. Therefore, the language to be spoken inside a Chinese station is naturally Chinese," Pang said, echoing Chen's advice that those foreign astronauts should know about Chinese culture.

Chen is not the first Chinese space official who has spoken about sending foreigners to the Tiangong station.

Before Chen, Yang Liwei, the first Chinese in space and now a deputy chief planner of the country's manned spaceflights, and Hao Chun, head of the China Manned Space Agency, have said that China is open to international cooperation on its space station, including flights jointly crewed with other nations.

Nie Haisheng, a senior astronaut and commander of the Shenzhou XII mission crew, said in 2021 that he and his fellow Chinese astronauts would welcome having foreign peers on the Tiangong station.

"We welcome our foreign counterparts, whom we will treat as friends, to join us at this 'space home'. We are determined to make our station a shared platform to advance science and technology to benefit all people around the world," he said.

In August 2017, Samantha Cristoforetti of Italy and Matthias Maurer of Germany, both from the European Space Agency, participated in a sea survival exercise, which was organized by the Astronaut Center of China, in waters off the coastal city of Yantai, Shandong province.

They were the first foreign astronauts to take part in spaceflight training in China.
The first of 27 police bodycam videos from the night of Dec. 25, 2021 in Aston Park.

ASHEVILLE - Asheville police released body camera footage Feb. 27 of officers responding to a Dec. 25, 2021 protest in Aston Park, a night when officers made multiple arrests, including that of two reporters.

All 27 videos were released around 12 p.m. on the city's YouTube page, and range in time from 49 seconds to over an hour.

Videos can be watched here: https://bit.ly/3Zb8zuf.

"These videos are body-worn camera footage from multiple police officers who responded to the demonstration, after the park closure, on the night of December 25, 2021," said a Feb. 27 news release from the Asheville Police Department. "Six people were arrested that night for 2nd Degree Trespassing. Some were charged with resisting arrest."

The release is the result of a petition from multiple agencies, including the American Civil Liberties Union of North Carolina, which submitted a Jan. 24 court filing for the "unrestricted" release of all body camera footage related to the arrest of the two reporters, Matilda Bliss and Veronica Coit, while covering a homeless camp clearing in Aston Park.

Previous coverage:Aston Park protests: After ACLU petition, Asheville wants bodycam footage on YouTube

More:NC ACLU petitions for release of bodycam footage in arrest of Asheville reporters

N.C. ACLU spokesperson Keisha Williams told the Citizen Times Feb. 24 that they had received the judges signed consent order.

According to City Attorney Brad Branham, the city raised no objections to the request.

The ACLU requested the video, and we willingly complied," said Chief David Zack in the Feb. 27 release of police bodycam footage.

The ACLU requested the video, and we willingly complied," Police Chief David Zack said in the Feb. 27 release.

Neither the city or APD could independently decide to release the footage. Any release of bodycam footage in North Carolina requires a Superior Court judges order.

The night shown in the footage was one in a string of public facing encampment clearings that winter, and in the week leading up to Christmas Day, the park was the focal point for a number of sanctuary camp demonstrations.

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Also following the protests, 16 individuals were charged with felony littering. Five of those cases are going to trial in April. Subsequently, 14 of those charged, all mutual aid volunteers who regularly met in Aston Park to distribute food and gear, were issued park bans, prohibiting them from entering city parks for three years, a policy the N.C. ACLU is also challenging.

Related:ACLU of NC challenges Asheville's park bans against felony littering defendants

In its Feb. 27 release, APD said the felony littering charges, which some attorneys have called "absurd," were the result of a two-month investigation.

"Activists dumped thousands of pounds of garbage in Aston Park during a protest which they described as a family art event," the release said. "The abandoned property included furniture, a kitchen sink, and tires, among many other items."

The trial of Coit and Bliss was set to begin Nov. 21 but has been continued twice, once until Jan. 25 and then again until April 19.

Bliss and Coit are charged with misdemeanor second-degree trespassing. Classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor, the charges carry a penalty of up to 20 days in jail or a $200 fine.

What's in the footage?

A viewing of the first few hours of posted videos, of which there are more than 10 hours, shows footage beginning before 10 p.m., when the park closed, and ending after 11 p.m.

About 14 officers appear in the footage, according to the city attorney's office, many capturing different angles and perspectives of the same window of time.

More:Vermont Avenue trees come down to make way for sidewalks; West Asheville neighbors mourn

As two officers approach the scene in video four, the beginning of a 50 minute clip, bodycam show eight cop cars lining the drive outside Aston Park, streetlamps flooding the grass in an off-yellow light. In earlier footage, about a dozen tents cluster on the hillside.

Though there is much back and forth between people in the video and officers, after being informed of the clearing, and at least one individual being roused from sleep, many people begin to pack up their tents and supplies and leave.

The arrests of the journalists can be seen in various clips, but Bliss' arrest is detailed clearly in video two, beginning at minute 20:33 of the video, taken at about 10:30 p.m., according to the footage's time stamp.

As officers speak to Bliss, she is on the fringes of the field where the tents were set up, standing alone. As Lt. Mike McClanahan, who is wearing the camera in the video, tells Bliss several times if she does not leave the park, she is trespassing. Bliss also repeats that she is a member of the press, covering the event.

"Are you leaving, yes or no?" he asked her.

"Clearly, I have marked identification as press," Bliss said.

"Clearly," McClanahan answered, "you are trespassing."

Matilda Bliss, a reporter with the Asheville Blade, being arrested at 10:31 p.m. on Dec. 25, 2021 in Aston Park.

Bliss was arrested, alone except for officers, in Aston Park's gazebo. From the lip of the building, a sheet hung, reading, "Stop the Sweeps." Bliss's press badge can be seen around her neck.

Video of Coit's arrest can be clearly seen in video four, beginning at the about 4:07 minute mark. An officer asks Coit to leave the park repeatedly. As with Bliss, Coit also identifies themselves as press and says they are "covering a story."

In McClanahan's video, it appears Coit and Bliss are the first two people arrested. Four others were also arrested, dragged out of tents after refusing to pack up and leave on their own. Subsequently, all but Bliss and Coit were also charged with resisting a public officers.

Of the footage, N.C. ACLU staff attorney Muneeba S. Talukder said it was clear the journalists identified themselves as press several times, "and the journalists were not obstructing the police in any way."

"Its really troubling that the police decided to arrest them for trespass and even more troubling that these journalists are now being prosecuted for trespass charges," she said.

'Let's do the standing ones first'

Seth Stern, director of advocacy for Freedom of the Press Foundation, a New York-based nonprofit, said the afternoon of Feb. 27, while he was still working his way through the footage, he flagged a moment at 17:25 of video two.

Freedom of the Press Foundation is among the organizations that petitioned for the release of the footage.

Seth Stern

In the video, officers are discussing whether to "deal with" the people in the tents first, or those standing, which Stern interpreted to be a reference to Bliss and Coit, who were observing the officers nearby.

"... the tents, I'll deal with the standing in a minute," McClanahan said in reference to where to start making further contact.

The officer beside him said, "Why don't we deal with the standing first because they're videotaping?"

About three minute later, both Bliss and Coit are arrested.

More:More allegations of sexual assault at Asheville School emerge: police reports

"The videos reveal what we've known since that night," Bliss said in a Feb. 27 email to the Citizen Times, "that Blade journalists were specifically, deliberately targeted and arrested for doing their jobs, that cops dragged locals out of tents and that the APD repeatedly refused to follow their own 7-day notice rule and insisted on sweeping a camp on (C)hristmas night."

Stern said the video raises two separate questions: whether police had the legal right to arrest reporters, and even if they do, should they?

Stern argues the arrests were not legal, because "even generally applicable laws cannot be used to go after the press for exercising constitutional rights, and now there's video evidence that reporters were targeted specifically for recording."

Typically, he said, even when journalists are arrested, the charges are later dropped, such as recent incidents in East Palestine, Ohio, when a reporter was arrested while filming a live report, or Phoenix, where a reporter was detained.

Either of those places, Phoenix and East Palestine, could have claimed they were enforcing laws of general applicability, and they could have wasted a bunch of taxpayer money testing out that theory in court, but they had enough sense and enough respect for first amendment freedoms to not do that," Stern said.

"So its disturbing and striking that Asheville, which markets itself as this progressive oasis in the South, wants to distinguish itself as the place where journalists are tried for doing their jobs at a public park.

Sarah Honosky is the city government reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. News Tips? Email shonosky@citizentimes.com or message on Twitter at @slhonosky. Please help support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Watch now: Asheville police release bodycam from Aston Park protests
Volusia Sheriffs Office

A week after a neo-Nazi hate group circulated throughout the Daytona Beach, Florida area displaying and distributing extremist propaganda, the countys top cop has had enough.

These scumbags came to the wrong county We are not going to tolerate this, a seething Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood said at a press conference on Monday. This is not about free speech. This is about violence.

Chitwood identified the Goyim Defense League (GDL) as the organization behind the disturbing behavior, which included leaving antisemitic flyers on peoples doorsteps and hanging anti-Jewish banners from busy pedestrian bridges during Daytona 500 weekend. On Feb. 17, the GDL held a demonstration outside Chabad of South Orlando, harassing pedestrians and motorists, according to the Anti-Defamation League. The next day, members hung signs at the Daytona International Speedway with sayings such as, Henry Ford was right about the Jews. They later projected antisemitic slogans on the outside of the track, with one reading, Hitler was right.

Chitwood on Monday named GDL head Jon Minadeo as the ringleader, and noted he recently moved from his home state of California after his grandmothers restaurant was almost run out of business due to his bigoted activities. The GDL was behind a swastika burning near Austin, Texas in 2021, just hours after a local synagogue was firebombed. (In a previous interview with The Daily Beast, Minadeo denied having any affiliation with the suspect in that case, insisting that the GDL, which is classified as a hate group by the ADL, has never, ever done anything violent towards Jews.)

Chitwood, who did not hide his rage, said a group of GDL members from various states had spent last weekend traveling up and down Daytonas International Speedway Boulevard while thousands of fans were in town for the races, yelling obscenities from the back of a rented U-Haul truck. He said he didnt see anything where these people can say this is First Amendment [protected speech]. This is nothing but pure, pure, pure evil.

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https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=search&v=541383887838788&external_log_id=ae0e7a54-7c8a-4ab8-9f88-8f111d1b9b16&q=volusia%20sheriff

Chitwood ran through a laundry list of arrests and charges the 15 or so GDLers seen in town had on their records.

Lets take a look at these cowardly scumbags, he said, before walking reporters through a rogues gallery of those suspected to have been involved. Their rap sheets included stalking, threatening a public official, aggravated assault, murder, terroristic threats, vandalism for defacing a memorial for victims of the Pulse nightclub massacre, and soliciting a 14 year-old for sex.

Chitwood then told those gathered before him that a lot of people in the roomincluding himselfas well as Jews around the country, were on the GDLs hit list.

Chitwood called it a badge of honor, daring the GDL to come and put a bullet in the back of my head.

That's my message to you: go for it, he said. You want to try to get into my computer and plant child porn in there with a group of people that have an IQ of 12? Go for it. I challenge you to go for it. You want to put surveillance on me 24 hours [a day]? Go for it. And the best of all: youre going to dox me and make me unelectable? Go for it. You came to the wrong county. I stand with my Jewish friends and I'm honored to be on your hit list. It's an honor to be sought after by a bunch of punk thugs like you.

The biggest concern, according to Chitwood, is that a group like the GDL will radicalize the next active shooter.

I dont think theyve got the guts to pull the trigger themselves, but they know theres somebody out there that will do their bidding, he said.

These racist, bigoted, anonymous losers really think theyre hurting my feelings with a photo from an event where we raised thousands for breast cancer research.



We already know you arent that smart - thats why you became bigots pic.twitter.com/bBCtvmRDzK  Mike Chitwood (@SheriffChitwood) February 22, 2023

Chitwood began his career as a cop in Philadelphia. A decade-and-a-half later, he was appointed chief of the Shawnee Police Department in Oklahoma. He then served as chief of the Daytona Beach PD for 10 years before being elected sheriff of Volusia County.

In an interview with The Daily Beast following Mondays press conference, Chitwood had one thing to say to Minadeo and his group, calling their beliefs grotesque.

Excuse my French, but fuck you, motherfucker, he said.

As @VolusiaSheriff, I will use every legal measure in my power to crush these antisemitic, racist cowards. I hope they keep their cameras rolling and get it all on video.



Were going to send a message that Volusia County doesnt tolerate hate.  Mike Chitwood (@SheriffChitwood) February 22, 2023

Chitwood recalled a real, palpable fear amongst the Jewish community when these guys came into town. He said he was spurred to action by a sense of rage that virulent antisemites would feel free to use his jurisdiction as a backdrop for their bigotry. He said he was tired of holding community meetings, you know, well all hold hands and pray.

No, this is beyond that, Chitwood said. ...I had to get out there and be as forceful as I could, to emphasize: You came to the wrong place.

Chitwood pointed out that days after the speedway incident, a California man reportedly inspired by the GDL shot two Orthodox Jews outside a synagogue in Los Angeles. He vowed to stamp out extremism however he could, saying, If you stand by and you dont do anything, the violence and the intimidation win.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Late last year, Waymo secured a Driverless Pilot permit from the state of California, bringing the alphabet-owned brand one step closer to launching its autonomous taxi service in the state. Now, Waymo is already expanding its service area, announcing plans to begin testing driverless cars in Los Angeles. The company tells Engadget that the test will mark the first time that fully autonomous cars will roam the streets of LA, and that thanks to successful tests in San Francisco, its been able to roll out autonomous drivers in new cities with "little-to-no on-board engineering work."

That doesn't mean the company is ready to launch its Waymo One taxi service in California, however. The LA test will likely follow the same course as Waymo's fleet in San Francisco: a limited number of vehicles only available to riders in the Waymo Research Trusted Tester program. Waymo didn't have any details to share regarding when the full driverless taxi service will be available to customers in Los Angeles, but it probably hinges on the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) issuing the firm a Driverless Deployment permit. Until it can clear that final legal hurdle, Waymo's paid taxi service will remain exclusive to Phoenix AZ. So far, GM's Cruise robotaxi service is the only company permitted to charge for driverless rides in the state, so long as those rides take place during daylight hours.

Following a rigorous cycle of validation and safety readiness evaluation, @Waymo is starting fully-autonomous (no human driver) testing in LA. Thrilled by the data confirming, once again, how well our ML-based 5th-gen Driver generalizes across cities! pic.twitter.com/hd0XU5zecT  Dmitri Dolgov (@dmitri_dolgov) February 27, 2023

Waymo didn't give any specific dates for when the test will begin, but noted that its 5th-generation Jaguar I-Pace cars will start rider-only testing in Santa Monica, and only outside of rush-hour. Then, the program will expand in accordance with Waymo's safety framework before eventually launching to consumers. Oh, and in case you were worried that the cars might make LA traffic even worse, the company promises that its continuously updating its self-driving software to avoid stalling traffic, as one stopped Waymo vehicle recently did in San Francisco.
Ukrainian military near Bakhmut, February 24, 2023

The publication stated that these discussions are being held behind closed doors.

Read also: Germany and Poland to convene tank coalition next week

Bild believes that "any hesitations allow Putin to stabilize the internal situation in Russia and Russians to believe in their victory".

The Wall Street Journal reported earlier that Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and France's President Emmanuel Macron called on Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to hold peace talks with Russia during Zelenskyys visit to Paris in early February.

Read also: US announces additional security assistance for Ukraine

Some countries believe that Ukraine's tightening ties with NATO can be serve as a starting point for opening peace negotiations with Russia, according to WSJs sources in the German, French, and UK governments, though German news agency Welt has denied that these government have such stance.

On Feb. 24, Zelenskyy stressed that any negotiation with Moscow will be possible only after complete withdrawal of the Russian troops from the territory of Ukraine and a ceasefire. In January, the White House stated that they have seen no signs that Russia is really ready for a diplomatic settlement, and that the U.S. will continue to support Ukraine on the battlefield.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The week's best TV shows. (ITV/Prime Video)

Unforgotten viewers will get to see Sinead Keenan's debut this week as she stars alongside Sanjeev Bhaskar in the ITV1 drama now that Nicola Walker has made her exit.

Star-studded novel adaptation Daisy Jones & The Six hits Prime Video on Friday, but otherwise the week is mainly a treat for documentary fans with must-see factual shows at BBC Two and Channel 4.

Read more: Here's how to apply for The Traitors season 2

If you're an avid soaps viewer, be aware that the schedule has changed again this week to make way for FA Cup coverage.

The best things to watch on TV this week, 27 February - 5 March

Unforgotten - ITV1 - Monday, 9pm

Sinead Keenan's Jess has a tough start. (ITV)

It's Unforgotten, but not as we know it...following Cassie's untimely death at the end of season four, Nicola Walker is no longer starring alongside Sanjeev Bhaskar as Sunny.

He has a new double act with Sinead Keenan's Jess joining the force, but she has her work cut out for her - both in terms of actual cases, and in winning over the grieving team.

The detectives are faced with a severed leg discovered inside a chimney in this first episode.

The Mormons Are Coming - BBC Two - Tuesday, 9pm

Mormons are in training in the documentary. (BBC)

BBC Two is delving into the fascinating world of Mormons with this documentary following three young missionaries undertaking their training at a centre in Lancashire.

Surprising details include the church's encouragement of missionaries posting up to 50 social media updates a day in order to spread the word.

Read more: Stephen Fry to reboot classic game show Jeopardy! for ITV

It's an insightful look at the lives of people really living the religion as opposed to the Book Of Mormon theatre show version - although viewers will discover that real Mormons often hang out near the theatre to explain more about their way of life.

Cheat - Netflix - Wednesday

Ellie Taylor and Danny Dyer host Cheat. (Netflix)

Get up to speed on Danny Dyer's life after EastEnders as he launches a new game show on Netflix.

Dyer is obviously a seasoned host after The Wall, but here he's joined by Ted Lasso and Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Taylor, making for an unlikely duo.

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Read more: Danny Dyer admits he won't miss 'a few' of his EastEnders co-stars

Contestants must cheat their way to a 50,000 jackpot without being caught out.

Murder In The Pacific - BBC Two - Thursday, 9pm

Greenpeace's Rainbow Warrior. (BBC)

In 1985, Greenpeace ship the Rainbow Warrior was bombed while at sea, killing a crew member.

This three-part documentary looks at the crew's experiences of seeing the pollution caused by US nuclear testing, and their plans to protest French nuclear testing in the Pacific when they were bombed - as it later turned out, by the French government.

Stephen Fry: Willem & Frieda - Defying the Nazis - Thursday, 9pm

Stephen Fry presents the historical documentary. (Channel 4)

Stephen Fry explores the incredibly daring actions of Willem Arondeus and Frieda Belinfante, who risked their lives to save thousands of others from Nazi death camps.

The gay artist and lesbian cellist were already in danger as people targeted by Hitler for their sexuality, but bravely forged identity cards and destroyed a records office of duplicates to keep thousands of other Dutch people safe, most of whom they had never even met.

Daisy Jones & The Six - Prime Video - Friday

Daisy Jones and The Six (Prime Video)

Riley Keough, Sam Claflin and Suki Waterhouse star in this much-anticipated TV adaptation of Taylor Jenkins Reid's novel about the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock group.

The series even has its own album and single for the fictional group releasing at the same time as the TV show, so prepare to become fully immersed in Daisy Jones and co.

Finding Michael - Disney+ - Friday

Spencer Matthews in Finding Michael. (Disney+)

Made In Chelsea star Spencer Matthews features in this hugely emotional documentary about his quest to try to find his brother Michael's body and bring him home.

In 1999, Michael Matthews became the youngest person to reach the summit of Everest aged just 22, but disappeared hours later and was never seen again until another mountaineer contacted the Matthews family to say that he had spotted a body which appeared to be in the same clothing.

Days after his wife Vogue Williams gave birth to their third child, Spencer set out on a mission to try to find the body and, if it is Michael, bring him home, which is documented in this film.
US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has clarified President Joe Biden's comments on Sunday that Ukraine does not need F-16 fighter jets yet.

Source: Sullivan in an interview on the TV channel ABC, reports European Pravda

Sullivan reiterated that the White House is prioritising the immediate needs of this war and will continue to do so.

"Every phase of this war, the president has tried to make sure that the Ukrainian military gets what they need," Sullivan said.

"In the first phases, they were defending Kyiv. That was Javelin anti-tank weapons and Stinger anti-air systems. And that worked. It helped Ukraine defend Kyiv. In the second phase, it was heavy artillery to help them hold against the Russians pushing in eastern Ukraine. In this phase, the critical element is ground manoeuvre capability. And that means tanks, armoured personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles."

According to Sullivan, "what the president is saying is, hes focused on those capabilities".

"The F-16 question is a question for later," Sullivan said in another interview on CNN, adding: "Therefore, President Biden said that he's not making any progress with it right now".

Reminder: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that three other European countries, in addition to Poland, expressed their readiness to start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighters.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby speaks during a press briefing at the White House, Monday, Feb. 27, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) (AP)

The White House on Monday welcomed the announcement of an agreement between the UK and European Union to govern the flow of goods between Northern Ireland and Great Britain while avoiding breaching the Good Friday Agreement by reestablishing a hard land border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said the Biden administration is grateful that the two sides were able to come up with this Windsor framework ... in keeping with the Northern Ireland protocols when asked about the deal at the White House daily press briefing.

We believe that this will help improve the prosperity of both the EU and the UK, and will open up all kinds of now avenues for trade that were somewhat at risk, he said.

Mr Kirby, however, demurred when pressed on whether the advent of the UK-EU agreement would improve the prospects of a post-Brexit bilateral trade deal between the UK and the United States, telling reporters that he was not gonna get ahead of where we are right now.

The new agreement, which was unveiled on Monday by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, will allow EU exports bound specifically for Northern Ireland  which under post-Brexit terms has remained part of the EUs single market  to be handled separately from exports destined for the island of Great Britain. It eliminates the possibility of a hard border with customs checks being imposed between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which remains part of the EU.

The question of how to resolve Northern Irelands status without a land border has divided British conservatives, and called into question the future of the 25-year-old Good Friday Agreement that ended decades of sectarian violence between largely Catholic proponents of a unified Ireland and Protestant Unionists who wished to keep Northern Ireland as part of the UK.

The status of the agreement has been of significant concern to President Joe Biden, who is of Irish descent and has long maintained an interest in the viability of the Good Friday peace deal.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also said the White House welcomes the UK-EU deal and added that the administrations long-stated position has been that we wanted to see the UK and the EU reach a negotiated agreement.

We commend ... officials for doing that, and we certainly welcome the announcement, she said.
Despite fraying relations with Beijing, President Joe Biden is expected to forego expansive new restrictions on American investment in China, denying a push by some hawks in his administration and in Congress.

According to five people on Capitol Hill and K Street with knowledge of the White House discussions, Biden is scaling back a planned executive order to oversee American investments in China to focus largely on increasing transparency of those deals.

The order may still prohibit U.S. investments in at least one Chinese industry  advanced semiconductors  but will likely not block money from flowing to other parts of China's high-tech economy. Instead, the order is now expected to largely require U.S. firms to notify federal authorities when doing deals in industries like quantum computing and artificial intelligence, though some other investment prohibitions are being debated. The White House is now expected to issue the order in late March or early April, the people said, though further delays are possible if final details cannot be resolved.

The Biden administration pushed back on that description of the executive order discussions in a statement to POLITICO.

"The premise of this story is false, and its characterization of the planned requirements of an outbound investment program is inaccurate," said Saloni Sharma, a spokesperson for the National Security Council. "This administration has from the beginning focused on formulating an approach that addresses national security risks stemming from outbound investments in a way that is implementable and effective  and has a greater impact on the [Chinese government's] efforts to acquire sensitive capabilities than it has on the competitiveness of American companies."

An order that focuses on transparency, rather than regulating U.S. investments in China, would be far more modest than some of the investment restrictions Biden and Congress considered last year. Then, policymakers proposed setting up a government review board that could deny U.S. deals in a wide swath of Chinese industries  including microchips, AI, quantum computing, clean energy and biotechnology  when they felt national security was at risk.

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Backing away from those plans would represent a setback for China hawks in the White House, who have led a campaign to undermine Beijing's high-tech industries, and could slow the momentum toward strategic separation  or "decoupling"  between American and Chinese industries. And it would underscore how even as diplomatic relations between Washington and Beijing nosedive, strong economic interests continue to bind the U.S. and China together.

Officials in the administration and Congress who have advocated a tougher line with China will be very disappointed if the eventual order falls short of having the authority to reject deals between U.S. and Chinese firms, said Eric Sayers, a former staffer for the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command during the Trump administration.

But even a scaled back executive order would represent a new chapter for federal oversight of American business overseas. Until recently, the U.S. government largely allowed American business free rein in the worlds second largest economy. But Chinas use of U.S. technology and funding to develop its advanced microchips, weapons systems and other defense industries has pushed national security officials to argue for more oversight in recent years. Executive action scrutinizing so-called "outbound investments" represents the next step of that campaign to curtail Chinese technological development, even if it is less aggressive than earlier plans.

While this [executive order] is the first official step, we shouldnt expect it to be the last, said Sayers, now managing director at D.C. consulting firm Beacon Global Strategies. He noted that past investment screening policies, like the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, took decades to be fully established. This will likely be an additive process that grows over time through both executive powers and legislative action, he said.

Though the final order is still in flux, the administration is likely to set up a pilot program under which U.S. firms doing new deals with Chinese artificial intelligence and quantum computing firms would have to disclose details to government authorities. Biotech and clean energy deals are now likely to be left out of the initial executive order, the people with knowledge said, though regulatory efforts could be extended after the pilot program and opportunities for comment from industry and outside groups.

Such an order would represent a setback for national security leaders in the White House, led by the National Security Council, who have advocated for a more aggressive approach. Last September, national security adviser Jake Sullivan said in a speech that the administration would aim to undermine Chinese development across a numbers of sectors  AI, quantum, chips, biotech and clean energy  that were subject to the original executive order discussions.

But despite continued tensions over Taiwan and the recent surveillance balloon debacle, the administration has since narrowed its approach at the request of the Treasury Department, which has long opposed an aggressive approach to outbound investments and has been meeting with U.S. financial firms since last fall. Momentum for the NSC's more aggressive approach also slowed after the departure last fall of one of Sullivans key deputies, Peter Harrell, who had helped lead the economic campaign against Beijing.

Momentum in Congress also appears to have slowed. Over the past two years, lawmakers have debated bipartisan legislation that would have set up a new federal review panel headed by the U.S. Trade Representative with broad authority to review and deny American investments across a wide swath of the Chinese economy. But they were ultimately unsuccessful in attaching the bill to Congress CHIPS Act last year or the yearly defense spending bill.

Now, some Republicans in the House are advocating a narrower approach, with leaders of the House Financial Services Committee pushing legislation that would expand the federal governments ability to blacklist Chinese firms, but not set up new federal oversight authority. For the U.S. to compete with China, we cannot become more like the Chinese Communist Party, Chair Patrick McHenry said at a hearing earlier this month.

The debate will now turn to the Senate, where the Banking Committee will hold a hearing Tuesday on sanctions, export controls and other tools like outbound investment screening. While Chair Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) has been generally supportive of efforts to increase oversight of U.S. firms in China, it is still unclear what changes he and ranking member Tim Scott (R-S.C.) will seek to the bipartisan bill debated last year.
An expelled white student is suing Howard University, a historically Black school, for $2 million over what he claims is racial discrimination, citing pain, suffering, emotional anguish and damage to his reputation.

Michael Newman was expelled in September after attending Howard law school starting in 2020. Newman alleges in his suit that the school created a hostile education environment, and argues that he suffered depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts as a result of public ostracism, vilification and humiliation.

Newman apparently became the target of criticism by other students when he made remarks about where he parts from the Black community, saying in a group chat with other students that Black people believe government solves problems, I only see it causing problems, according to the suit. Newman made further comments in class settings that other students took exception to, and the suit alleges that some conspired to seek his expulsion.

The suit also claims that an administrator at the university told Newman that he had become the most hated student he had seen in his time at the school.

The acrimony reached a peak when a classmate found Newmans private Twitter account and reposted a tweet from him that included a photo of a slave with scars on his back, with the caption: But we dont know what he did before the picture was taken!

Newman argued that the comment was made ironically, in response to Americans who attempt to explain away videos of police brutality by claiming that the victim must have committed wrongdoing before the video started that justified the violence.

Following a number of other infractions with school administrators, including using a university Listserv to send what was seen as administrators and students alike as disturbing emails to the community, Newman was expelled. He lost an appeal at the school that challenged the expulsion.

Frank Tramble, vice president and chief communications officer for Howard University, told The New York Post that the school is prepared to vigorously defend itself in this lawsuit as the claims provide a one-sided and self-serving narrative of the events leading to the end of the students enrollment at the University.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Wang Dawei, former vice governor of northeast China's Liaoning Province and former police chief of Liaoning, has been indicted for suspected bribe-taking, said an official statement on Sunday.

The prosecution was brought by a procuratorate in the city of Xiangyang, Hubei Province, following the conclusion of an investigation into Wang's case by the National Commission of Supervision and upon the designation of the Supreme People's Procuratorate.

Wang had also served as a member of the Standing Committee of the Harbin Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China in Heilongjiang Province and head of the commission for political and legal affairs of the municipal Party committee.

The indictment said Wang had taken advantage of his various posts in Heilongjiang and Liaoning provinces to seek gains for others in business operations, case handling, and adjustment of official positions, and accepted an "especially huge amount" of money and gifts in return. Wang shall be subject to criminal accountability according to the law, said the indictment.

Prosecutors had informed the defendant of his litigation rights, interrogated him, and listened to lawyers' opinions.
James Alex Fields, the Ohio white supremacist serving a life sentence in prison for the deadly car ramming at the 2017 "Unite the Right" tragedy in Charlottesville, Virginia, is now accused of a series of misconduct at the federal prison in Springfield, Missouri.

Fields is accused of making threats against at least one correctional officer and of wielding a "dangerous weapon," according to prison records and a U.S. Justice Department filing reviewed by CBS News.

Fields pleaded guilty to a series of federal hate crimes charges in the deadly August 2017 car attack against counterdemonstrators in Charlottesville, which killed 32-year-old Heather Heyer and wounded dozens more. According to the new Justice Department and Bureau of Prisons records, Fields has committed a series of recent misconduct incidents and has been disciplined by the loss of phone and email privileges and through monetary fines.

The revelations have surfaced as the Justice Department seeks to seize hundreds of dollars in Fields' prison inmate account, to help pay for nearly $81,000 in unpaid restitution and fine costs from his criminal case. The Justice Department also said Fields has yet to pay fines for the misconduct in which he allegedly engaged while in prison.

Aaliyah Jones, right, and Kenny Winston, both of Charlottesville, share a moment at the memorial of their friend, Heather Heyer's death during the Unite the Right rally in 2017 in Charlottesville, Va., Monday, Aug. 12, 2019. / Credit: Steve Helber / AP

According to a court filing from prosecutors, Fields was fined $250 for possessing a dangerous "homemade" weapon in December 2020, while serving his term.

Prison records released by the Justice Department show Fields was accused of another incident weeks later. The records allege he made a "threatening remark" to an officer in January 2021. Other incidents of misconduct included being "insolent" to prison staff and refusing to appear at a hearing.

The records also shed light on the disciplinary actions utilized by prison officials in cases like Fields's. The records list "punishment for misconduct" included seizing of Fields's personal property, suspension of phone and email privileges, monetary fines and the removal of his "mattress during daylight hours."

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In court filings earlier this year, prosecutors alerted a federal judge in Charlottesville that Fields has obtained "substantial funds" in his prisoner inmate account. Though the Justice Department sealed the names of the suspected donors, testimony in a federal civil lawsuit against Fields indicated a known white supremacist had contributed money, while others had sent correspondences in the past five years.

Prosecutors are seeking to seize the money to use for unpaid fines and restitution ordered by the federal court as part of Fields's plea agreement. In a new court filing, the Justice Department said the Bureau of Prisons does not unilaterally seize money from an inmate's account, even to pay fines incurred for misconduct in the prison. The court filing said spending limits at the prison commissary are instituted instead. The court filing said, "The inmate is restricted to spending $25 per month at the prison commissary, but certain items are excluded from that limitation such as stamps, over-the-counter medications, and copy cards/paper. Fields has not released money to pay the disciplinary fines to date."

The chief judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia is handling the matter, but a final order has not yet been posted.

Fields has filed a handwritten motion to limit the seizure of his prison account money. His prior criminal defense attorney did not respond to a request for comment.

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Testing of water samples in East Palestine

Olivia Holley and Taylor Gulish test the pH and the total dissolved solids of the water from Leslie Run creek on February 25, 2023 in East Palestine, Ohio. Credit - Michael SwensenGetty Images

Three weeks after the Norfolk Southern train derailment and subsequent toxic chemical spill and fire in East Palestine, Ohio, a major grocery chain is pulling water that was bottled 25 miles from the crash site off of store shelves.

Giant Eagle, which operates hundreds of stores in five states, including Ohio, withdrew its spring water which comes from Salineville, Ohio, out of an abundance of caution, the company said in a Feb. 21 statement.

Giant Eagles move is the latest indication that the East Palestine spill is causing concerns far from the village of 4,700 people. Among the chemicals involved in the derailment was vinyl chloride, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classifies as a carcinogen.

What Giant Eagle is saying

The grocery store chain noted that a third-party lab has been testing the facilitys water sources and bottled water samples. It did not find evidence that the water had been contaminated as a result of the Feb. 3 incident. But the company added that it would take the product off store shelves until further testing.

As we continue to receive these assurances from our Salineville water vendor, we also recognize that regional and national health officials continue to send resources to East Palestine to learn as much as possible about the potential impact to the health of the community, the grocery chain said. The water in these products comes from a protected spring which is located at a higher elevation than East Palestine, and therefore far from affected groundwater sources, it added.

Is contamination likely?

Experts say that its highly unlikely that water so far away from the site of the accident would be contaminated, especially so quickly. I see that as sort of an irrational fear of the unknown, says Murray McBride, an expert on soil contamination and emeritus professor at Cornell University.

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James Connors, a licensed geoscientist and expert in groundwater contamination who has testified as an expert witness in dozens of court cases, notes that its unlikely for contamination in groundwater to travel 25 miles. He is familiar with cases in which contamination may travel up to six miles but notes those are usually the result of decades-long problems.

While acknowledging that the risk of contamination to Giant Eagles bottled water is very low, he says the companys decision to pull the product until further information is commendable.

They say its out of an abundance of caution. I would say thats an accurate statementand good for them; its not every company that takes profit off the table and does a more thorough evaluation, Connors says.

Officials say water is safe

The Environmental Protection Agency has said that East Palestines air and drinking water is safe and that it will continue monitoring the effects of the toxic train derailment. However, some local residents have reported symptoms of dizziness, headaches, and rashes, resulting in concern that contamination is not being adequately measured.

In an effort to maintain calm, local, state, and federal officials have taken part in photo ops drinking water to assure residents it is safe. However, experts note that drinking one glass of contaminated water may not have the same effect as consuming it every day.

Although McBride believes the spring water from Salineville is safe, there is certainly a chance that local wells within a mile or so of the spill site may be affected. He says they will require regular water testing.

Were really just at the very beginning of that very long and very standard process, Connors says. Until samples can be collected over a longer time range, its very hard to come up with any reliable science-based conclusions about what the broader environmental impact is.

Another complication: As a result of firefighters dousing the fires from the derailment, a lot of water has been introduced into the New Palestine environment. That usually spreads the problem, Connors says. So what we do know is that there is a very high probability of groundwater contamination that will be significant, and probably will take years to clean up.

Some of the toxic chemicals could move beyond the one-mile radius from the spill site over several years, and they could contaminate drinking water, as well as water used for farm animals, McBride says.

Its better to be safe than sorry. Its better to be overcautious than under cautious. But I think I think this is a case of being a little too overcautious, McBride says.

Conners, however, said in this case theres no real downside to being overcautious.
Electric military scooters being donated to Ukraine by the Latvian Ministry of Defense.

A soldier can only be so intimidating when standing on an electric scooter. In bulky brown coats and forest-green pants, a quartet of Latvian soldiers demonstrate the ease of their Mosphera scooters. The vehicles, made in Liepaja, Latvia, were part of an arms transfer from that country to Ukraine, part of the ongoing effort of the Baltic nation, together with others, to ensure Ukraine has the tools to fight and win against Russia.



Alongside the four scooters, Latvia transferred nine quadricycles to Ukraine on January 25, framing it as a birthday gift to President Zelensky. Its a modest offering from a small country, powered specifically by a crowdsourced donation campaign. It also illustrates the comprehensive scale at which militaries can absorb new equipment, from massive battlefield beasts to 164-pound scooters.

Read more

Quadricycles being donated to Ukraine by the Latvian Ministry of Defense.

We are testing real combat action when we give these systems to the front line and also others that will be in the future. I know about these scooters  Ukrainians already have them, and there is also feedback. Improvements can be made. We need to learn how to defend this country also technically and tactically, not just morally, former Latvian National Armed Forces Commander Raimonds Graube told Latvian Public Broadcasting.



Those benefits, outlined in the Latvian (but not English) version of the story online, include traveling at speeds of up to 100 km/h (62 mph), and transporting intelligence operatives or special forces. While a scooter may look the opposite of scary, its low profile and quiet operation can make it a valuable asset. Mosphera claims the scooters have a range of up to 240 km or 150 miles, and notes the battery can operate in temperatures of -20 C (-4 F) to 60 C (140 F).

Heres a promotional video for the Mosphera scooter, with racing-drone footage and stadium-rock guitars doing some heavy lifting to help make it look fierce:

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Mosphera - a Military Grade e-scooter

The point of such a vehicle, though, isnt battle  its to get people where they need to be, quickly and discreetly, so they can more effectively fight.

The silence and ease of electric vehicles has already proven a factor in the Ukraine war. Russia invaded on February 24, 2022, and by mid-May there were reports of Ukrainian forces using e-bikes to move into position with anti-tank missiles.

In addition to the electric scooters, the nine quadricycles provided by Latvia in late January joined the 80 already offered to the country. These all-terrain vehicles are offered as miniature workhorses, filling three distinct missions.

LV-TEH Combat Support Platform

It is an off-road vehicle. It is small in size, but with a very high carrying capacity. The three main directions in this case will be: evacuation of the wounded, transportation and operation of anti-aircraft defense systems, and the third is supply, said Ugis Svirido of LV-TEH.



LV-TEHs Combat Support Platform is a four-wheeled rig pulled by quadricycles. Without passengers, its a wagon for cargo, fuel, water, or ammunition. It can be configured to fit two stretchers side-by-side, making it useful for rescuing and transporting the wounded. With four fold-down seats on the platform, and a passenger riding behind the driver on the quadricycle, it can also be light transport for a rifle team.

Photo: LV-TEH (Other)

The platform can also mount weapons, with a central bearing gear and hand crank letting the rider rotate the platform 360 degrees. The weapon could include an anti-air missile launcher, like one for firing vintage Soviet-design Strela missiles or Stinger missiles common across NATO arsenals. The platform can also mount a heavy machine gun and armor plate, making it a rapidly deployable weapon for killing enemy soldiers and attacking other light vehicles.



Heres a video of the platform demonstrating a few modes:



The modular constructor type unit combat support platform (CSP) from LV-TEH

At the time of the donation, the Latvian donors emphasized that giving equipment made entirely in-country was a way to help without obstacles. Germany, whose Leopard II tanks form the bulk of armor in NATO arsenals, had blocked donations of the tanks to Ukraine, until after the United States declared it was donating 31 of its Abrams tanks to the country.

Donating an ATV with a machine gun rig attached is not on the same scale as a 70-ton tank with a giant cannon, but war materiel is cumulative. While the heavy tanks will prove invaluable for any offensives Ukraine may launch, scouts on electric scooters could be part of the intelligence gathering that identifies weak spots in Russian defenses to assault. The quadricycles with platforms attached could bolster defenses on newly expanded lines, letting Ukraine place anti-air and anti-personnel weapons quickly, fending off attempts to attack around the flanks of a tank assault.

As the war passes its first anniversary, the forces fighting on both sides have been transformed through the process. War adopts the shape of the tools used to fight it. If the opening of the invasion was marked by surreal sights like anti-tank steel hedgehogs lining the streets of Kyiv, perhaps the next phase of the war will see battlefields littered with electric scooters, like so many discarded Lime rideshares.

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King Charles III controversially hosted European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen at Windsor Castle. (PA)

King Charles' meeting with Ursula von der Leyen at Windsor Castle has attracted major criticism from politicians and commentators.

Former royal correspondent for the BBC  Peter Hunt  said that "heads will roll" over the "serious error in judgement" and one constitutional expert said, "all of this is unwise".

The meeting came as Rishi Sunak finalised a new post-Brexit deal with the president of the European Commission over the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Yahoo UK explains why the decision is sparking such controversy.

'Terrible mistake' - what has the reaction been so far?

The decision has sparked widespread criticism because the negotiations surrounding Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade position are firmly a political issue - something Charles is constitutionally bound as sovereign to stay out of.

Commentator Peter Hunt said the meeting with von der Leyen was a serious error of judgment adding that the King has abandoned his unifying role and entered the political fray.

Hunt also said that history wont be kind to the move, and writing in The Spectator, said that it will likely result in the resignation of one of the Kings advisors, saying someones head will roll.

He added: "With one handshake and the click of an attendant camera, he abandoned his unifying role and entered a political fray where the Brexit dust has yet to settle."

Constitutional expert Craig Prescott from Bangor University told The Times that while on a superficial level, there is nothing wrong with Charles meeting von der Leyen but the "Northern Ireland Protocol is a matter of huge controversy."

Sunak's spokesperson has said that the decision to meet the President of the European Commission was "fundamentally" the King's. (Getty Images)

Prescott added: "All of this is unwise. A cardinal rule is the monarch does not get involved in politics, and really you should put an electric fence around that rule."

Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg has said to GB News: "The sovereign should only be involved when things are completed and accepted" and that the monarch "doesn't express his view on acts of parliament" while they are still being processed.

Story continues

Chris Bryant, a Labour MP, said it was a "terrible mistake" for the King to meet with von der Leyen.

"This is a terrible mistake by the government. We should never bring the monarchy into political disputes."

The meeting with von der Leyen has been deemed a "terrible mistake". (Reuters)

Former first minister of Northern Ireland - Arlene Foster - called the decision "crass" and that it would "go down badly in Northern Ireland". She also couldn't "quite believe No 10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one".

Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) MP Sammy Wilson said Downing Street was "dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue".

However, Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, has defended the Kings meeting with von der Leyen saying it is not unusual for senior international representatives to meet the monarch while they are in the UK.

Read more: Royal row hits Rishi Sunak's plan to sign Brexit deal with EU today

Why is it controversial for Charles to meet Ursula von der Leyen?

Many are interpreting this move as the King giving his seal of approval to the new agreement, meaning it can be seen as the politicisation of the monarch.

As a 'national symbol' for the entire UK, Charles cannot be seen as favouring the interests of individual politicians, or any particular political position: he represents the four nations equally and in their entirety, which is why it is so important he remains neutral.

If he can be viewed as 'taking a stand' in any respect then it undermines the power of the sovereign's symbolic reach as head of state and, in the long term, the stability of the monarchy.

Read more: King Charles's Ukraine statement shows how he's different to Queen

Watch: Rishi Sunak strikes post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol deal with EU

Whose decision was it for the King to meet Ursula von der Leyen?

A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace has said that the King met von der Leyen on the advice of the government.

"The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the governments advice that he should do so."

However, Downing Street said the opposite, that it was "fundamentally" the King's decision.

Sunak's spokesperson also said that the prime minister "firmly believes it's for the King to make those kind of decisions".

The Foreign Secretary also said that the final decision rested with the palace about whether King Charles was able to meet von der Leyen when speaking to Sky News, and when questioned on Good Morning Britain about whose idea the controversial meeting was, he said the government had facilitated it.

Both parties therefore, are keen to place the blame for this controversial meeting at the other's door.

This comes after reports at the weekend that Charles was due to meet von der Leyen as part of the negotiations, although it has not been suggested he would have taken part in the talks himself.

More reporting on the Northern Ireland Protocol

DUP Leader faces stark and binary choice over any NI protocol deal (The Guardian)

'The whole point of Brexit was to permanently prevent the EU from telling the UK what to do' (The Telegraph)
The Wisconsin womens basketball team took down 12th ranked Michigan 78-70 at home on Sunday. The victory over the Wolverines was the teams first against their Big Ten rival since 2014 and their fourth win in their last five contests.

It was senior day at the Kohl Center and three Badger athletes were honored before the contest, forward Sara Stapleton, guard Avery LaBarbera and star wing Julie Pospisilova.

Playing in front of her family for only the second time since her freshman year, Pospisilova put on a show, scoring 25 points while also adding six rebounds, five assists and two blocks in her final contest at the Kohl Center. She has now scored at least 20 points in four of the last six games to end the regular season.

Joining Pospisilova in double-digits Sunday were teammates Maty Wilke (15), Serah Williams (14) and fellow senior Avery LaBarbera (12) while Brooke Schramek (9) was particularly aggressive on the defensive end, recording three steals and three blocks.

The Badgers (11-19) won three straight Big Ten contests for the first time since the 2010-2011 season and they will now enter the Big Ten Tournament as the 10th seed and face Purdue in the first round on March 2 at 5:30 PM.

The culture appears to be changing in Madison under dynamic head coach Marisa Moseley, now in her second season at the helm.

Story originally appeared on Badgers Wire
BUDAPEST (Reuters) - Airline Wizz Air said on Monday it would suspend flights to the Moldovan capital Chisinau from March 14 due to concerns about the safety of its airspace, a decision Moldova's civil aviation authority described as sudden and regrettable.

Wizz Air said in a statement it would lay on extra flights from the Romanian city of Iasi as replacements, including a new service to Berlin, and more flights to Barcelona, Milan Bergamo, Bologna, Rome Ciampino, Rome Fuimicino, Dortumand, Larnaca, London Luton and Treviso.

Flights to Budapest and Prague will not be replaced and those inbound to Chisinau will be reallocated to other destinations in the Wizz Air network, it said.

"Safety of the passengers and crew remain Wizz Air's number one priority and following the recent developments in Moldova and the elevated, but not imminent, risk in the country's airspace, Wizz Air has made the difficult but responsible decision to suspend all flights to Chisinau from the 14th of March," it said.

Moldovan Foreign Minister Nicu Popescu said on Wednesday that his country was prepared for a "full spectrum of threats", given fears Russia could intensify attempts to destabilise the country that is reeling from the war in neighbouring Ukraine.

Tensions between Russia and Moldova have grown in recent months as Russian missiles aimed at Ukraine have entered Moldovan airspace and authorities have blamed the Kremlin for fuelling anti-government protests, something it denies.

Moldova's civil aviation authority said Moldovan authorities had been informed by email of Wizz Air's decision, adding the airline had sought approval for its summer flight schedule on Feb. 14, and received it on Monday.

"After analysing the risks, government agencies have determined that flights in the national airspace can be carried out safely by following a number of procedures, and they regret Wizz Air's sudden decision," a post on the Moldovan government's official Telegram channel said.

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It said the civil aviation authority and the ministry of infrastructure and regional development had been in "constant cooperation" with Wizz Air representatives and informed them of the procedures in place to ensure aviation security.

The aviation authority would take "all necessary actions" to return Wizz Air to Chisinau airport as soon as possible, and to attract other low-cost airlines.

(Reporting by Gergely Szakacs and Alexander Tanas, writing by Max Hunder and Elaine Monaghan. Editing by Jane Merriman and Barbara Lewis)
A woman was found dead near Ballard High School early Monday.

Police initially reported the death as a shooting, but later clarified that the woman did not die from a gunshot wound.

Just before 3 a.m., someone called 911 about a dead woman outside the Toft Apartments off 15th Avenue and 65th Street.

Seattle Fire Department was here on scene actually conducting life-saving measures on the woman that was found, said Seattle Police Department spokesperson Judinna Gulpan.

Police say the 44-year-old woman died at the scene, which is only a block away from Ballard High School.

Ballard High School is right there. Kids walk by here every day to go to school, said Andrew Wergeland-Rammage, who lives in Ballard.

Daniel Wilson, who goes to the gym across the street, said its tough to wake up and the first thing you see is a see a death investigation happening.

I come here five, six times a week. You know, its kind of like my church and so to see that and talk to you guys and seeing theres a dead body over there was kind like, What kind of world we in, you know, said Wilson.

Neighbors said the death is concerning because just last week there was a fatal shooting during an attempted robbery at King Smoke Shop.

Ive been here my whole life, and its pretty sad, like a week and a half ago there was someone just shot and killed a few blocks from this location, and for me, its like Ballard doesnt have this, said Wergeland-Rammage.

Ive never been personally affected by the things going on in Ballard, but I see it all around and it definitely makes me weary, said Wilson.

Homicide detectives knocked on several businesses in the hopes of gathering more information or surveillance footage.

Anyone with information about the womans death is asked to call Seattle police.

See something, say something, honestly. Theres no reason you shouldnt call 911, said Wergeland-Rammage.
Lady Gaga, shown at the 2022 Grammy Awards, is being sued by a woman who returned the pop star's stolen French bulldogs to L.A. police. (Jordan Strauss / Associated Press)

A woman who was convicted after turning in two of Lady Gaga's French bulldogs stolen in a violent robbery is suing the pop star, arguing she was never paid a $500,000 reward promised for the dogs' return.

Two months after pleading no contest to receiving stolen property, Jennifer McBride, 52, filed suit Friday in a Los Angeles court, alleging that Lady Gaga went back on an offer to pay the reward with "no questions asked."

McBride's connection to the robbery was unclear when she walked into a Los Angeles police station with the dogs, asking about the money Lady Gaga had offered on social media.

She told officers she had found the dogs tied to a pole in the days after the February 2021 robbery, police said. As the investigation continued, authorities found McBride had a relationship with the father of one of two men accused of stealing Lady Gaga's pets in a brazen attack in Hollywood.

The men jumped out of a white sedan in the 1500 block of North Sierra Bonita Avenue and demanded Lady Gaga's dog walker hand over the animals. The dog walker, Ryan Fischer, struggled with the robbers and was shot once in the chest by one of the assailants. He survived.

The man who shot Fischer, James Howard Jackson, was sentenced in December to 21 years in prison after pleading no contest to a charge of attempted murder. An accomplice pleaded no contest to a firearms charge.

McBride's lawsuit alleges Lady Gaga, whose real name is Stefani Germanotta, "never intended to honor their unilateral offer to pay the reward money of $500,000."

The lawsuit also argues that McBride was questioned about her role despite "representations" that the reward would be paid for the return of the dogs with "no questions asked."

"The truth was that [Lady Gaga] intended to have its agents and/or law enforcement to ask questions of [McBride] regarding the circumstances surrounding [McBride's] return of [Lady Gaga's] French bulldogs, Koji and Gustav," the suit states.

The lawsuit does not mention the arrest and conviction of McBride, who was sentenced to two years of probation.

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Los Angeles County Deputy Dist. Atty. Michele Hanisee said evidence showed McBride was aware that the dogs had been stolen before she tried to return them.

"Absolutely," she said in an interview. "She was aware, and it was very clear that she was aware the dogs were stolen."

McBride took the dogs from the pole, but video showed that she had been in the area, apparently waiting.

"She was pacing back and forth," Hanisee said, "waiting for the dogs to be dropped off."

When someone in a Jeep dropped off the dogs and tied them to a pole, video showed McBride immediately walking over and grabbing them.

The car was being driven by a man who has not been identified by authorities, Hanisee said.

According to the lawsuit, McBride has suffered pain and suffering, mental anguish and loss of enjoyment of life as a result of not being paid the $500,000 reward.

McBride, who is still on probation, is asking not just for the reward but also $1.5 million in damages.

If Lady Gaga should suffer any financial loss as a result of the lawsuit, however, McBride and the other defendants might ultimately be responsible for that loss, Hanisee said.

Prosecutors sought restitution from two of three of the defendants as a result of Fischer's medical bills from the shooting. If Lady Gaga were to suffer financially from the lawsuit, prosecutors could seek restitution from McBride on behalf of the singer.

"Should Lady Gaga suffer a financial loss in this crime, which I would argue that would include being required to pay a reward," Hanisee said, "that would be a financial loss."

That restitution could include interest, and it could also mean all of the defendants would be responsible for it, she said.

A representative for Lady Gaga did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Black-necked cranes are seen in Nyingchi, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, March 26, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]



More trees and expanding grasslands have covered southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region over the years, thanks to central and local government's afforestation efforts, official figures showed.

As a pilot zone for high-altitude tree planting projects, the regional capital Lhasa has carried out various scientific research efforts since 2012.

Over the past decade, more than 30 species suitable for planting on the plateau have been screened and planted, according to Hu Zhiguang, deputy director of the regional forestry and grassland bureau.

In 2021, the largest afforestation project in Tibet was launched. According to the plan, the project is expected to complete afforestation of about 2.07 million mu (137,800 hectares) by 2030.

After completion of the project, the annual increase of newly-added water storage will reach 49.8 million tonnes, carbon sequestration 229,100 tonnes, and oxygen release 193,000 tonnes, respectively, which will create an annual ecological value of over 1.48 billion yuan (about 215.4 million U.S. dollars).

With an average altitude of 4,500 meters, Nagqu on the northern Tibetan plateau was once the only city in China without trees. Following nearly 20 years of exploration, scattered trees have survived and are growing in the yards of some government departments and next to some roads.

The central government has since 2012 invested an accumulated 12.7 billion yuan in building an ecological security barrier in Tibet, according to Shui Yanping, deputy director of the regional department of ecology and environment, adding that the forest coverage rate increased to 12.31 percent, while the comprehensive vegetation coverage of grassland reached 47.14 percent.

Statistics show that in 2022, Tibet completed afforestation of some 1.18 million mu and restored over 4.37 million mu of degraded grassland, with 50 percent of its land area classified under ecological protection.
Tax season began about a month ago, and some people are probably starting to see their refunds hit their bank accounts.

But if you're like the majority of Americans, you probably haven't filed your taxes yet. Here's what you need to know about how to file, where your refund is and how long you can expect to wait.

More:Daylight saving time is starting soon. Here's when clocks spring forward

How long do I have to wait for my tax refund?

Most people receive their refunds within 21 days of filing their tax returns, according to the Internal Revenue Service. You can check the status of your refund using the IRS' "Where's My Refund" tool 24 hours after you file.

However, your return could be delayed if it requires additional review. This affects:

People who were victims of identity theft or return fraud.

Anyone filing for an Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit (these refunds couldn't be issued before mid-February).

People whose return requires a manual review.

What's the fastest way to get my tax refund?

The fastest way to receive your refund is to set up a direct deposit to your bank account. You can choose to receive your refund as a physical check that will be mailed to your address, but that generally takes longer.

In addition, filing online ensures your return will be processed quicker than if you do it by paper through the mail.

Starting this year, if your adjusted gross income is under $73,000 you can use the IRS' Free File Program to get guided tax preparation that helps you through every step. Any taxpayer can also use Free File Fillable Forms through the agency or any third-party tax service.

More:What's ahead for the Austin-area housing market? Check out these highlights

How long can I put off doing my tax return?

You have until April 18 to file your federal income taxes this year  not state taxes, though, because Texas doesn't require residents to file a state income tax return.

Generally, the last day to file taxes is April 15, but since that falls on a Saturday this year and the next Monday, April 17, is Emancipation Day  a recognized holiday in Washington  the deadline was extended to Tuesday, April 18.

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However, if you need a bit more time, you can file for an extension. The deadline to file for that extension is also April 18, and it gives taxpayers an additional six months to file. So if you request an extension, you'll have to file your 2022 taxes by Oct. 16.

There are a couple of ways to request an extension:

More:Border security, tax relief among top priorities in Texas House, Senate budget proposals

What do I need to file my tax return?

Your tax records, for starters. They include a W-2 from your employer, or it could be a 1099-K, a 1099-MISC or any other income statement from your employer.

If you were paid through unemployment, a pension, a retirement fund or dividends, you'll also receive a 1099 form to file your taxes. If you made money from any type of interest, you'll receive a 1099-INT.

How do I get my tax forms?

Your employer provides most of these forms. by this point in the year, you should have received your W-2 or 1099. However, if your W-2 was incorrect and you requested that your employer fix it, you should have received the corrected version by the end of February.

If your employer hasn't corrected your W-2, you can file a complaint by calling 800-829-1040 or scheduling a visit with an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

More:Austin City Council passes ordinance to increase pay for police, cadets

I lost my refund. Is there anything I can do?

Yes. You can use the "Where's My Refund" tool at irs.gov/refunds, call the automated service at 800-829-1954 or speak with an IRS agent by calling 800-829-1040.

If your refund check wasn't cashed, you'll get a replacement after the original is canceled. However, if the check was cashed, you'll receive a claim package through the Bureau of the Fiscal Service.

Generally, the last day to file taxes is April 15, but since that date falls on a Saturday this year and the next Monday is Emancipation Day, the deadline was extended to Tuesday, April 18.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Where is my tax refund? Check out this guide to 2023 tax season
A financial curriculum on evolving currency has bettered the lives of 55 business students at the Xavier University of Louisiana.

The post Xavier University Of Louisiana Students Gain Financial Advantage By Completing Crypto Literacy Program appeared first on AfroTech.

According to a press release sent to AfroTech, the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) partnered with Circle Internet Financial for its Circle U: Digital Financial Literacy pilot program, which launched in September 2022 across four HBCUs.

Xavier University is keenly aware of the importance of providing its students with the critical foundational knowledge provided in Circle U, Dante Disparte, Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Global Policy at Circle, said in a news release. Were thrilled that faculty and students at Xavier are extracting value, and we look forward to expanding the pilot to include even more HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions in 2023.

The curriculum is targeted toward underserved and marginalized communities and provides knowledge on concepts that include the evolution of money, Bitcoin and blockchain technology, Ethereum and tokenization, layers and interoperability, Web3 and applications, policy and regulation; and a Web3 tutorial.

At Xavier, we believe in providing students with access to a wide range of content to help them make sound decisions personally and professionally as they develop into distinguished young professionals, said Dr. Shael Wolfson, an assistant professor in Xaviers Business Administration and Economics department. Xavier was already working on blockchain projects when Circle U became available, and offering the content to our XCOR 3020 Blockchain, Crypto and Society students was a logical next step in our programs progression. We are excited to share this content with more students as we move out of the pilot phase.

As a firm believer in blockchain and cryptocurrency technology, programs like Circle U help African Americans to start having a seat at the table, said Kenson Barnes, a senior business management student at Xavier University. The stock market has been in place for generations, and we could be doing the same to attain generational wealth. The cryptocurrency market is a growing venture and needs more people like us in it.

Whats more, participants who fulfill the Circle U curriculum will be able to apply early for internships and jobs with Circle.

For more information, click here.
Researchers have tried for decades to use stem cells to restore a damaged heart.

A new study shows they still haven't succeeded, but it offers the first glimmers of hope for heart disease, which is blamed for about 1 in 5 deaths in the United States, killing nearly 700,000 people a year.

The trial, by the Texas Heart Institute, showed that a one-time treatment of cells didn't keep heart failure patients out of the hospital. But it dramatically reduced the risk of stroke or recurrent heart attack for the nearly three years of the study, particularly among people who also had high levels of inflammation.

"At a year, the hearts were pumping stronger," said Dr. Emerson Perin, who led the research.

While he will have to conduct another clinical trial before winning approval for his approach, he has a path forward, Perin said.

"I now have the recipe," he said. "I know who I have to give (the cells) to, how I have to give them and in what dose."

More health news:

Dr. Emerson Perin of the Texas Heart Institute examines stem cells used to treat patients with long-standing heart disease.

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are cells that can turn into a variety of other cells.

Every person arises from the combination of an egg and a sperm. Once fused, this combination of cells divides repeatedly, leading to every other cell in the body, from brain to gut cells.

Early cells with the ability to become every other cell are called "embryonic stem cells."

The human body also produces stem cells later in development that are less versatile than embryonic ones, but still may be useful in medicine. So-called mesenchymal stem cells can turn into bone, cartilage, muscle and fat.

In this study, researchers used precursor mesenchymal stem cells taken from three young, adult donors without heart disease. The goal was to alter the environment around the patients' hearts to decrease inflammation.

What the study showed

In the study of 565 heart failure patients from 52 treatment centers, half were given high doses of these mesenchymal stem cells and the other half a sham procedure.

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The study was designed to measure hospitalization and time until death, neither of which were statistically improved by the treatment.

But those who received the cells had a 58% reduced risk of heart attack or stroke, and among patients with high levels of inflammation the risk reduction rose to 75%.

These patients were already heavily treated with medication, so the improvements came on top of those therapies.

For years, Perin said, he's been seeing patients with heart failure get better when he gave them mesenchymal stem cells.

"Until now we didn't know why," Perin said. "Cell therapy has been this black hole. ... We now have insights into how it works."

What other researchers have to say

Dr. Richard Lee, a stem cell biologist at Harvard University, said he found the study useful but thinks this type of stem cell has a long way to go to become a treatment for heart failure.

Drugs already available to treat heart failure are underused, he said, and doctors shouldn't wait around for newer therapies. "We should be doing better now," Lee said.

Despite these other therapies, heart failure continues to be a major problem for patients, said Dr. Roberto Bolli, who holds the distinguished chair in cardiology at the Jewish Hospital Heart and Lung Institute in Louisville, Kentucky.

"We can improve the symptoms of these patients, but still, their long-term outcome is not good. They will inexorably get worse and worse over time," said Bolli, who was not involved in the new research.

Also, the new study showed that the treatment was safe. None of the patients in this trial or in others over the years have suffered serious problems after receiving stem cells for heart disease.

This is first large study of stem cell therapy in heart disease to show an improvement for patients, Bolli said. "That's very significant."

Four other smaller trials have also shown promise in heart failure, including one he led, co-authored by Perin.

"I would say cell therapy is a promising treatment for chronic heart failure," Bolli said.

Why it's taken so long to get stem cells to work for heart disease patients

Researchers have been working for decades to get stem cells to benefit heart disease patients.

Dr. Joshua Hare, a cardiologist at the University of Miami who does stem cell research but was not involved in the current study, said he thinks the field would have moved faster if it had been better funded.

He hopes the new finding, though technically a failure, will encourage more investment.

Stem cell clinics, which "steal people's money" for procedures that don't help cardiac patients, have also created problems for the field, said Dr. Timothy Henry, a cardiologist and director of the Lindner Center at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Bolli said research has been so slow in part because it focused for 15 years on treating patients after heart attacks, hoping the cells would rebuild a damaged heart when given within a few days. At least 10 trials have shown that doesn't work.

Instead, the new trial and the four smaller ones suggest that stem cells are best at helping patients with long-standing heart failure, by reducing inflammation around the heart, which continues to damage its function.

Bolli said the new findings strongly suggest the need for a follow-up study concentrating on patients who also have inflammation. (Henry, who was on the steering committee for the new study, said he is optimistic that Mesoblast, the Australian company that funded the trial, will go forward with another study.)

"If that trial confirms these results, that will be a major advance in cardiovascular medicine," Bolli said. "We don't know of any other treatment that does that."

Contact Karen Weintraub at kweintraub@usatoday.com.

Health and patient safety coverage at USA TODAY is made possible in part by a grant from the Masimo Foundation for Ethics, Innovation and Competition in Healthcare. The Masimo Foundation does not provide editorial input.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Heart disease study shows hope for stem cell treatment
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is making a surprise visit to Ukraine on Monday to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, affirming U.S. support for the country as its war with Russia passes the one year mark, according to a Treasury Department official.

Yellen will visit Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, to meet with Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials. Yellen also announced another $1.25 billion in economic support from the U.S. to Ukraine.

The Treasury secretarys visit to Ukraine follows President Bidens surprise trip to Kyiv earlier this month. Biden has vowed to support Ukraine for as long as it takes  a commitment that Yellen will reiterate on Monday.

Yellen will also highlight U.S. and Western actions to impose sanctions against Russia, which are meant to weaken its defense industry and constrain its economy.

The doubling down of support for Ukraine from the Biden administration comes as some congressional Republicans have started to raise alarms about the level of assistance that the U.S. has given to the country. The likes of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) and Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) are prodding the administration to audit its financial support of Ukraine and provide a roadmap to end the conflict.

Yellen said in a New York Times op-ed on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin was counting on western support for Ukraine to fade, highlighting the need for continued assistance.

Mr. Putin is counting on our global coalitions resolve to wane, which he thinks will give him the upper hand in the war, Yellen said in the op-ed. But he is wrong. As President Biden said here last week, America will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Yellen laid out why economic support from the U.S. and its allies for Ukraine was vital, arguing that the country has vast unmet economic needs.

War is first and foremost a security and humanitarian threat  but it is also a huge economic shock, Yellen said.

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The U.S. earmarked at least $77 billion in aid to Ukraine in 2022, including some $30 billion on military support.

The Yellen visit also comes as tensions between the U.S. and Russia have flared in recent weeks, with Putin suspending Russias participation in a nuclear pact between the two nations.

Updated: 3:11 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Steve Holland and Jeff Mason

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. first lady Jill Biden wants Americans to know that her husband, President Joe Biden, does plan to run for a second four-year term, and she's all for it - even as a formal declaration of his intentions has yet to be made.

Jill Biden, asked by CNN about her husband's plans on a just-completed trip to Namibia and Kenya, said she expects him to announce a campaign and dismissed a question on whether the 80-year-old Democrat might opt out of a run in 2024.

"I'm all for it, of course," said the first lady, whose opinion is considered critical for the president's upcoming plans, even as he consults with a close group of longtime political advisers.

She made even stronger remarks to the Associated Press on the trip, when asked if the president was running again: "How many times does he have to say it for you to believe it?"

Whether Biden should run in 2024 continues to be a source of debate among Democrats. Another run would test whether voters are ready to give Biden, already the oldest American president ever, another four years in office.

Biden himself has said repeatedly that he intends to run for re-election and has dismissed questions about his age, but has yet to make a formal declaration.

"There's too many other things we have to finish in the near term before I start a campaign," he told ABC's David Muir at the White House.

Biden said last November that he would decide in early 2023 whether he would run again, but an announcement now is not expected until the spring.

Biden to date has faced no major primary challenger, and he has shown no urgency to make a re-election bid official.

Biden spent the early weeks of the year in a controversy about classified documents, and more recently, his focus on foreign policy including a surprise trip to Ukraine has dominated his schedule.

Cedric Richmond, a former Biden White House adviser, said Biden would announce "whenever he's ready" when asked if an announcement was coming in March or April.

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Any re-election bid would likely be influenced strongly by Biden's White House inner circle of advisers. But there has neither been a campaign manager identified yet nor the location of his campaign headquarters.

Polls show concerns about his age among some Americans since Biden would be 86 by the end of a prospective second term.

Some 46% of respondents to a Reuters/Ipsos poll earlier this month said the phrase "Joe Biden is too old to work in government" strongly describes the president, with 24% of Democrats and 49% of independents holding that view.

Some 71% of respondents, including 52% of Democrats, said they did not believe that Biden should run for re-election in 2024.

On the Republican side, former President Donald Trump, who will be 78 by the time of the 2024 election, and Nikki Haley, Trump's former U.N. ambassador and former South Carolina governor, have so far declared as candidates for 2024.

Democratic strategist Bud Jackson said the issue of whether Biden should run again is a topic of great debate in Democratic circles.

"Almost everyone I talk to is concerned about his age," Jackson said, but that "nearly everyone I talk to give him the benefit of the doubt that he should still run."

(Reporting by Steve Holland and Jeff Mason; additional reporting by Scott Malone; Editing by Heather Timmons and Leslie Adler)
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) said on Sunday that President Biden should visit the Ohio town reeling from the derailment of a train hauling toxic chemicals, rather than traveling to Virginia this week to speak about healthcare.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said that Biden plans to use his speech at an event in Virginia Beach on Tuesday to draw a contrast between his healthcare priorities and those of his GOP colleagues.

During an appearance on Fox Newss Sunday Morning Futures, host Maria Bartiromo asked Youngkin about Bidens upcoming visit to his home state.

Well, Joe Bidens been to Ukraine, now hes coming to Virginia. He has yet to go to Ohio, Youngkin told Bartiromo.

And he wants to talk about healthcare, why doesnt he go someplace where people actually have real health concerns that are driving them to worry about not just the day-to-day impacts of this horrific train crash, but the long term impacts with cancer threats, etc. he added.

This is a moment for leaders to lead, Youngkin said. And Joe Biden needs to lead here and I just think its really, really unbelievable that he has yet to go to Ohio and support these people that need the help.

During a White House press briefing on Thursday, Jean-Pierre said that Biden had no plans to visit the site of the train derailment, noting he had already put forth a multi-agency initiative in response to the accident.

Youngkin, who is seen as a potential GOP presidential candidate in 2024, is among many prominent GOP figures who have criticized Biden for not visiting East Palestine.

Former President Trump, who is now running for president for the third time, accused the Biden administration of indifference and betrayal toward East Palestine residents during a visit there earlier this week.

Unfortunately, as you know, in too many cases your goodness and perseverance were met with indifference and betrayal in some cases, Trump said. And Biden and FEMA said they would not send aid to East Palestine under any circumstance.

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During his own visit to the Ohio town, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Thursday called on Trump to support the Biden administration in reversing Trump-era deregulations that some have blamed for contributing to the derailment.

The train carrying toxic chemicals derailed near the Pennsylvania state line earlier this month, causing a massive fire and prompting authorities to evacuate about half of the 4,800 residents in the surrounding area, which included the village of East Palestine, Ohio.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Pharmacists prepare traditional Chinese medicine at Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province, Dec. 23, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]



China will implement measures to strengthen the health services system involving Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and enhance the grassroots capacity of providing TCM health services, according to an industry watchdog on Saturday.

The country will build a batch of TCM rehabilitation centers and promote the construction of a national TCM center in the Xiong'an New Area this year, said a meeting of the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine attended by the heads of TCM authorities at various levels.

Standards and technical manuals will be provided to enhance the building of community TCM clinics and improve their capacities, said the meeting, adding that TCM training will be promoted for medical personnel working at the primary level.

China also pledged efforts to formulate operating standards and diagnostic and treatment plans to improve the medical service capacity of ethnic minorities.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to pilot Oleksii Kovalenko, who was killed in Kharkiv Oblast.



Source: Presidential Decree No. 109/2023



Quote: "For personal courage and heroism shown in the defence of state sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and selfless service to the Ukrainian people, I hereby decree that the title Hero of Ukraine with the Order of the Golden Star be awarded to Major Oleksii Oleksandrovych Kovalenko (posthumously)."

Reference: Major Oleksii Kovalenko, a first-class pilot of a Su-24M frontline bomber, was killed on 22 March 2022, as a result of being shot down during a combat mission to conduct an airstrike on a Russian convoy of manpower and equipment near the city of Izium, Kharkiv Oblast.

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The Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union commended the tireless and continuous efforts exerted by King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, to defend the Holy City.

At its 34th conference, held in the Iraqi capital Baghdad February 25-26, the Union also commended the efforts of Bayt Mal Al-Quds Acharif Agency, under the Al-Quds Committee, to provide the necessary support to the resilience of the Palestinian people.

The Union affirmed that the region will live in peace, security and stability only if the Palestinian people recover all their usurped rights, calling, in this regard, to make every effort for peaceful inter-Arab relations and settle disputes between Arab countries in order to close ranks, unite and strengthen the foundations of Arab security as a whole.

A delegation of the Moroccan parliament participated in the session, held under the theme Arab support for strengthening the stability and sovereignty of Iraq.

In a statement, the House of Representatives had indicated that the participation of the Moroccan parliamentary delegation in this Arab event is an opportunity to exchange experiences and hold bilateral meetings, which will have a positive impact on the status and position of Morocco at the regional and international levels, as well as at the level of parliamentary practices in its various aspects.
North American lawyers specializing in handling cybersecurity cases highlighted, Saturday in Tangier, the legal inadmissibility of the pseudo-evidence contained in reports by Citizen Lab, Amnesty International and Forbidden Stories regarding the alleged use of Pegasus software by some countries.

This came at a hearing organized by Moroccos Personal Data Protection Committee (CNDP) with the participation of scores of national and international technical experts, willing to present and share their analyses and conclusions, based on rational methodologies and proven facts.

The American lawyer at the New York bar, Tor Ekeland, explained that the so-called evidence provided by these organizations was inadmissible by a US federal court because it was based on junk science.

The first thing a US court does in reviewing scientific evidence is to see if that evidence meets the principle of reproducibility, he said. However, he noted, the Citizen Lab results are not reproducible in any way, which is in itself a red flag.

Moreover, he added, the first thing I noticed in this case is the particularly vague and ambiguous nature of the conclusions of Amnesty International ()

The report of these organizations merely cites traces of an alleged Pegasus presence, without giving any explanation as what these traces mean, Ekeland noted.

What Amnesty and Citizen Lab are doing is, in my opinion, very dangerous, because they are promoting a kind of junk science and making accusations that they cant back up (), he said.

New York-based Canadian lawyer Michael Hassard, who also specializes in computer science, explained that when scientific evidence is submitted for analysis, it can often be subject to confirmation bias.

When fingerprints were first used in forensics, they were subject to this confirmation bias, and the same thing happened with hair analysis, dental records and even DNA analysis, he recalled.

In this regard, he cited the book dealing with this issue and published by the lawyer of the American organization The Innocence Project, Chris Fabricant, entitled Junk Science and the American Criminal Justice System.

Scientific methods of analyzing evidence in cybersecurity and computer science are relatively new and far from foolproof, Hassard stressed.

The two lawyers concluded that it is important to establish ethical standards when it comes to methodologies in such cases.

US Computer Scientist Jonathan Scott on his part affirmed that Morocco is beyond reproach in the Pegasus case.

Scott underlined the methodological and scientific shortcomings in approaches by Citizen Lab, Amnesty International, and Forbidden Stories, which led them to adopt incorrect results.

He explained that analyzing an iCloud backup from the alleged victims phone is insufficient evidence to determine the existence of malware, and that only a complete examination of the physical phone can lead to the detection of a spyware.

The U.S. expert revealed the futility of MVT utilized by Citizen Lab to accuse Morocco of using Pegasus.

When Amnesty International discovered the MVT fault, it simply removed the expression false positives from its reports without informing the public, Scott said, adding that he has the original, unmodified version.

He said that Morocco is being accused of serious acts and is being denied the ability to defend itself, notably the ability to examine the evidence.

In the same vein, Head of CNDP Omar Seghrouchni said that the Pegasus accusations are based on erroneous technical assessments and premature assumptions in an attempt to accuse specific countries.

In a related development, Irina Tsukerman, a human rights and national security lawyer and president of U.S. media consulting firm Scarab Rising, refuted Forbidden Stories accusations against Morocco, describing the organization as being an unreliable source.

In an interview with weekly Maroc-Hebdo, the lawyer affirmed that she has studied the methodology used by Citizen Lab, Amnesty International, and ACCESS NOW, and noted that their reports are vague, and lack transparency, verifiability, and independent peer review.

She added that these organizations were unable to conduct an independent evaluation of the so-called Pegasus-infected devices and, in many cases, failed to identify the devices.

On independent investigations by media outlets, she said that many journalists have a natural bias against specific governments and people.

In this regard, she explained that Morocco is a common target of such tendencies due to its phosphate industry, pro-Western policies, and close defense cooperation with the USA. Furthermore, the geographical position and sea borders of Morocco make it a target for parties seeking to destabilize the country.

Tsukerman went on to say that the monarchy has many foes, including oil-rich Algeria, which is ruled by an internationally influential authoritarian junta.

She added that these anti-Morocco campaigns are mere attempts to isolate Morocco from its expanding political clout on the back of cooperation with the United States and as a result of the Abraham Accords.
Africa needs to accelerate the financing for energy access in the continent with clear targets and steps for ensuring the achievement of universal energy access by 2030  this appeal was made during a recent presidential roundtable on the side-lines of the 36th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union (AU).

The event which was organized by the AU Commission (AUC) and the World Bank in collaboration with the Union of the Comoros was attended by dignitaries from the Comoros, Madagascar, Namibia, Congo, and Malawi, and high-level representatives of the African Development Bank, the World Bank, international and regional institutions, and development partners. Amani Abou-Zeid, AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, emphasized that energy is a bedrock for the success of every development sector and thus increased effort is required in ensuring affordable and reliable access. Azali Assoumani, President of the Union of the Comoros and the Chairperson of the AU for 2023, shed light on the irony of energy poverty on a continent that is richly endowed with vast energy resources that remain untapped.

The African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM) was noted by the speakers to be a key strategic element of facilitating energy access and enhancing energy security in Africa and, therefore, the AU member states, regional economic communities and their specialized institutions were urged to play their part in facilitating its operationalization. Africa needs US$25 billion in investment annually to meet its energy targets. The deliberations in the high-level panel underscored the role of partnerships in the area of finance, knowledge and technology transfer to help speed up existing and new initiatives to overcome constraints that African countries face in their quest for energy development.
Gabons President Ali Bongo Ondimba took on Saturday the leadership of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), a regional organization promoting regional economic cooperation in Central Africa.

The ECCAS held its 22nd summit in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Bongo takes over from DRC leader Felix Tshisekedi Tshilombo and will lead the organization for a one-year mandate. He is expected to work on ways to finance the organization and to preserve forests in the region.

Gabon will host early next month One Forest Summit, an international conference aiming at advancing knowledge and promoting scientific cooperation on forest ecosystems, and fostering sustainable value chains in the forestry sector.

Founded in 1983, the ECCASs headquarters are located in Gabons capital, Libreville. The organization acquired the status of Commission in December 2019 in order to implement its activities with greater efficiency in the face of the challenges of the region and thus meet the hopes of a very young population who sees the success of its future in regional integration.
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People walk near the headquarters of the European Commission in Brussels, Belgium, May 19, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (UK) Rishi Sunak is to meet President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen in the UK on Monday over post-Brexit deals, a joint statement said on Sunday.

Von der Leyen and Sunak "agreed to continue their work in person towards shared, practical solutions for the range of complex challenges around the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland," the statement said.

A dispute over the Northern Ireland Protocol -- the rules governing post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland -- has strained Britain's relations with the European Union (EU).

Under the protocol, Northern Ireland is part of British customs territory but is subject to the EU's customs code, value-added tax rules and single market rules for goods.

However, a de facto Irish Sea border was thus created between the British mainland and Northern Ireland, meaning goods transported to and from Northern Ireland are subject to border controls.

Northern Ireland's pro-Brexit Democratic Unionist Party has demanded the removal or replacement of the protocol as a precondition for it to sit in the assembly and form a devolved government.
The Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union reiterated its rejection of the approach of tutelage and arrogance that the European Parliament (EP) is trying to adopt towards many independent and sovereign Arab countries in order to interfere in their internal affairs and impose its tutelage on them, directly or indirectly.

During its 34th conference, held in Baghdad February 25-26, the Union affirmed its categorical and unequivocal rejection of any form of aggression or foreign interference in the internal affairs of any Arab country, whether directly or indirectly.

The Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union also warned against the repercussions of politicizing the human rights issue or any other issue on the basis of erroneous and unfounded information.

A delegation representing the Moroccan parliament participated in the 34th conference of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union, held under the topic of Arab support to strengthen the stability and sovereignty of Iraq.
Morocco has agreed to share its experiences with Palestine in social services provided to vulnerable people to ensure inclusive development and social peace.

An agreement was inked Monday in Rabat by Moroccan minister of Solidarity, Social Integration & Family, Mrs. Awatif Hayar and Palestinian minister of Social Development Ahmed Majdalani.

Under the deal, Morocco pledges to train Palestinian social workers on the use of digital technologies for a better and transparent management of the social protection field.

Commenting the agreement, Mrs. Awatif Hayar said it shows Moroccos steadfast solidarity with the Palestinian people and the importance King Mohammed VI, chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, grants to the Palestinian cause.

For his part, Mr. Majdalani thanked Morocco for its support to the Palestinian people, saying the new cooperation agreement comes after the one signed in 1996 between Morocco and the Palestinian Authority in this field.

A follow-up committee will be set up to ensure the implementation of the commitments made, he said, hailing Moroccos contributions to the Palestinian cause.

Last week, on the sidelines of the partners meeting to support the implementation of the Palestinian National Employment Strategy 2021-2025, held in Amman, Jordan, Morocco and Palestine signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in the field of employment, vocational training, inspection, labor protection and occupational safety and health.

The MoU provides for the development of self-employment tools and small projects, the exchange of studies on the reality of the Moroccan and Palestinian labor market, the holding of training courses, and the exchange of expertise and know-how.

Palestinian Minister of Labor Nasri Abu Jaish, who initialed the MoU, affirmed his departments willingness to benefit from Moroccan expertise in the fields of vocational training, health and safety, where Morocco has made significant progress.

Moroccan Minister of Economic Inclusion Younes Sekkouri for his part noted that the agreement is meant to develop relations with Palestine in the field of labor, employment and entrepreneurship, taking into account the specificities of the issue of employment in the Palestinian territories, which are experiencing a difficult situation.
A large bipartisan delegation of American Senators, including the chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, hailed, Monday in Casablanca, the role of King Mohammed VI in strengthening peace, prosperity and security in the region and throughout the world.

We express our deep appreciation to His Majesty King Mohammed VI for his commitment to strengthening relations between the United States and Morocco, and for his role in promoting peace, prosperity and security in the region and the world, Democratic Senator Bob Menendez told reporters after a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita that focused on Security and the fight against terrorism.

The talks with Bourita provided an opportunity to review the strong relationship between the United States and Morocco, and to discuss bilateral cooperation to address, together, a wide range of regional and international challenges, said Senator Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Recalling that Morocco is one of the closest and oldest allies of the United States, the U.S. lawmaker said the meeting was also an opportunity to highlight the importance of bilateral partnership on a range of security issues, particularly the fight against terrorism.

In this regard, the U.S. senator said he was confident that Moroccan-American relations can only get stronger in the years to come.

Menendez also focused on the warming of relations between Morocco and Israel, stressing that these relations are already creating new opportunities for peace and prosperity.

For his part, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham stressed that members of both parties see Morocco as a stabilizing force in an unstable region, adding that the Kingdom stands out as a stable force for good.

The South Carolina Senator stressed that the relationship between Rabat and Washington is one of the strongest that the United States of America maintains in the region.

Senator Graham noted that the U.S. Ambassador to Morocco, Puneet Talwar, in addition to being one of the closest people to president Joe Biden, enjoys the respect of the members of the United States Senate.

This is the second visit by US congressmen to Morocco since the beginning of the year.
US First Lady Jill Biden, who was on a two-day visit in Kenya over the weekend, called on wealthy nations to give more to countries in the Horn of Africa, which is experiencing its worst drought in four decades.

Five straight seasons of poor rainfall have killed millions of livestock, destroyed crops and left some 22 million people at risk of hunger in Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia, with a sixth season also forecast to fail. On Sunday, the first lady visited affected communities in Kenya. The US has funded most of the aid to deal with the climate disaster, which has led to the death of millions of livestock and destroyed crops.

We cant be alone. We need other countries to join us in this global effort to help people in the region, Jill Biden said at an aid distribution point in Kajiado, south of Nairobi. Unfortunately, you know theres the war in Ukraine. Theres the earthquake in Turkey. I mean there are a lot of conflicting interests, but obviously here people are starving, she said.

Jill Biden, who earlier this week visited Namibia, listened to parents struggling to feed their children and communities unable to get water. Drought was one of the main themes of her visit to Africa, along with food security and agriculture. Jill Biden travelled to Kenya from Namibia, part of a two-nation tour aimed at deepening ties with the continent, which has become a renewed diplomatic battleground following Russias invasion of Ukraine last year. This is Bidens first trip to Africa as the first lady of the United States.
Said it in the roundup and I'll say it again. Counting on Disney Adults to throw Molotov Dole Whips at his mansion.

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Noooo, don't waste the dole whips!

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mickey shaped pretzels become ninja stars.

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Also unleash Chip n Dale on his ass! Theyd torment him forever

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to a new board that oversees much of Disney Worlds day-to-day operation



I hope that drives them insane and they quit. A bunch of bigoted donors are suddenly in charge of running Disney World? No credentials?

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i'm really curious as to what they exactly mean by overseeing the day to day operation too like. they're not on the disney board, they weren't appointed by iger. so what do they do?

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My understanding is its the govt services. So upkeep like trash collection and so on.



Disney did that as they had this huge area for staff as part of the are originally.

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This asshole scares this shit out of me, cause he gets his awful policies and bills passed, and conservatives just eat it up

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Also he's the only Republican who has any hope of challenging Trump for the nomination so like... the thought of him as the nominee is terrifying.

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He's going to run. They're hypocritical because they talk about terrorism all the time, but this is all white supremacy, capitalism, and extremist Christian shit.

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Right. I never thought I'd see the day I was hoping Trump would win the nomination.



If he does, I really hope he doesn't pick DeSantis as his VP ugh.

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don't let him. look how many more millions of votes Biden won by compared to Drumpfy. Then think that over 1,000,000+ of those republican voters are now dead from Covid, thanks to Drumpf, and can no longer vote. The presidency will not be in jeopardy. Don't let the fucking stupid ass media scare you.

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Can't wait to hear the first amendment crowd rally against him doing this! Surely they'll be against DeSantis doing this, right?

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Hes running florida literally like a dictatorship and the media is refusing still to take him seriously. Were gonna have desantis 2024 breeze right into the presidency if we dont learn from our mistakes but once again ratings and ad revenue trump all.

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Honestly I think Trump will destroy him. Either he wins and Trump runs as a third party candidate or Ron loses and is humiliated. Meatball Ron will go the way of little Marco and lyin ted.

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I do not think we should write him off. He is a dangerous threat to our country. Trump is hemorrhaging followers. Ive been seeing desantis 2024 flags where I used to see trump flags.

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I live in Florida, please do not under estimate this man. He is dangerous.



I need more people to wake up and take the threat of a DeSantis Presidency seriously. The election is next year.

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Ive been saying this for years. Hes an absolute loser, but hes still forcing changes that give him more and more power. People havent learned shit from 2015. Not the trumpers, not the dems. Were so fucked.

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Sadly youre right. I highly doubt Biden will get re-elected. desantis is trump, but smart, which makes him more dangerous than trump.

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I have no doubt he's going to be the next president. Right-wing voters will conveniently forget they ever liked Trump and turn to whichever man in the room can provide the most spectacle and hate in easily digestible chunks. I hate it here.

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The media is 100% a big part of the problem.

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God the thought of him as president is literally making me nauseous and teary. I cant take this shit anymore.

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frankly the media wants him to be the nominee

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Crazy how we are already feeling like the next one is going to either be T or D. Not even discussing the dem side. What a reality

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Eh. I would say it's the opposite problem. The media is giving him TOO much hype as the defacto Republican nominee. Which means sure, they cover his scandals. But it also means he gets puff pieces on his happy marriage and tons of editorials on how he's the "new face" of the Republican party, a true fiscal conservative who can get the party back on track and finally fight inflation etc.



But none of that is true. DeSantis is far more of a right wing nut job than Trump. Trump built a cult of personality. MAGA weirdos ate up his wacky on-stage antics. He wisely stayed away from deeply unpopular issues, like abortion. DeSantis is an absolute blackhole of personality, who creeps people out on stage. He has been spearheading far right legislation, including abortion legislation. And all of that will become a much bigger talking point closer to the election.



Personally, I think he will flop on the national stage. There's a reason why DeSantis is terrified to say anything against Trump, and Trump has no problem shit talking DeSantis. MAGA fans are still rabid Trumpers. There are some who would vote for DeSantis. But there are just as many who would ONLY vote for Trump, and plenty who will turn on DeSantis if they perceive him as anti-Trump. Which he will eventually have to be, in order to win the primary. DeSantis might be popular within the party establishment, as their hope to ditch Trump, but Trump still has a chokehold on the actual voters.



As for the debate over Biden still being the Dem candidate... who is the alternative??? Who has a guaranteed win? At this point, Biden still seems to have the better chance. People mock him, he's not particularly liked, but he still safely delivers votes.

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I don't feel bad for Disney because they donated to Desantis so congrats you dumb fucks.

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They donate to whichever politician is in power to pass laws in their favor, but lol @ it backfiring on them like this.

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they donate to every politician period, they have no political alignment, they just do whatever protects disney

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Ah yes Mom's for Liberty is def qualifications to do whatever this board will do.



Also I'd recommend looking at what DeSantis is doing to the New College of Florida for a preview of his plans if he becomes president.



Edited at 2023-02-27 09:35 pm (UTC)

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Yup. As a former Florida educator, what's being done in regards to education at all levels in this state is deliberate and frightening.

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is it actually mom's for liberty or moms for liberty? because i have to laugh (and also cry) if they spelled it mom's and they're taken seriously.

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Mine was an autocorrect but according to google there are some oopsies of mom's on their website.

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I can't wait to see Disney use its evil for good lmao. Destroy him Walt.



Edited at 2023-02-27 09:34 pm (UTC)

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like taking down a billion dollar corporation would be swell and grand and all that if it wasn't cause desantis is a raging bigot, and not doing it for good intentions. what a loser.

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This guy is a menace we can only hope he stays in Florida.

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i hope florida does to him what he truly deserves.

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Gets attacked by a Florida Man?

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as i said in the roundup, disney needs to end florida resident discounts and piss people off some more

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The Florida resident discounts have been absolute trash for years. It used to be a slightly lower price ticket whenever. Then they started making it seasonal. Then it became you could get up to 2-4 day park hopper tickets slightly discounted, but only during a window and they had to be used by June.



Now its $175 for 2 weekdays only. No weekend. Oh, and thats for one park. You want park hoppers, $40 more per day.



I live hereI can literally hear Magic Kingdoms train whistle from my porch as I sit here typing this right nowand its well discussed Disney doesnt give a shit about residents or pass holders. People are annoyed.



Some of them are absolutely thrilled with DeSantis for this.





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it's been years since i qualify for a fl resident discount but it definitely used to be a good deal. it's a shame that it's gotten so shitty.

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How is this okay?? What would politics look like if they werent constantly swinging their dicks?

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get them, Colm!

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I'm not sure what Miles O'Brien is doing here but I approve!

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This dumbass lmao

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Taxes in Orange County about to rise and DeSantis is fully to blame.

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Democrats better get their messaging read and out now  "DeSantis raised your taxes to stroke his dick!"

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Well, FL Dems just voted for Nikki Fried to lead the party, so don't expect too much

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Orange County is largely democratic. Which is why he doesn't give a fuck about the way this will impact residents. He's a petty dictator and doesn't care. Especially if the people he's harming are dems who don't vote for him/his cronies anyway. It's a punishment on multiple levels. On Disney for begrudgingly speaking out against his "Don't Say Gay" bill and the people that live there who vote blue.

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Orange County always go blue. DeSantis has never won it. He knows what hes doing.

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Yup. As a OC resident, Im pissed. I fucking hate that shit stain.

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I would love to see the mouse and desantis fight to the death.

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Oop @ me I thought the middle one was Colin Farrell Colin sweetie Im so sorry

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With EU bans on Russian oil and oil-product exports set to go into effect this year in response to Russias ongoing war in Ukraine, emerging market producers are poised to gain larger shares of an evolving market.

EU bans against Russian oil products such as diesel were rolled out earlier this month, following bans on Russian seaborne crude oil exports that began last December.

Last week, Patrick Pouyanne, CEO of Frances TotalEnergies, said that there is no longer a unified oil market With all these bans, we are creating a grey market for oil.

While this grey market might not be ideal for European international oil companies such as TotalEnergies that still have investments in Russia, emerging markets oil producers in the Middle East, Latin America and Africa  according to their geography, geopolitics, and the crude grade and oil products that they export  are increasingly finding outlets for their growing levels of production as the markets rebalance.

Meeting European demand

The EU has had little difficulty in sourcing crude oil since it announced the ban last May, as the market had time to prepare for the December implementation.

The largest incremental increase in crude imports in 2022 came from Norways Sverdrup field, which added 340,000 barrels per day (bpd) of medium sour grade that is similar to the sour Urals crude that the EU banned from Russia.

Another large increase came from the US, which saw its export volumes increase by 52.2% in the January-September 2022 period and nearly 1.7m bpd in December, the highest level in over two years. US shale production is also set to rise by 75,000 barrels in March to reach a record 9.4m bpd. US domestic demand declined in 2022 due to an economic slowdown, the use of more electric vehicles and greater fuel efficiency, which has freed up supply for export.

Related: Oil Prices Drop As Bearish Sentiment Builds



Last May, OBG argued that emerging markets oil producers would be able to gain new market share as Europe searches for seaborne oil imports, which rose by 12.3% in 2022.

Among emerging markets, Saudi Arabia made the largest contribution by increasing its direct seaborne exports to EU by 126%, from 4.6m tonnes in 2021 to 10.3m tonnes in 2022. The countrys diesel-rich, low-sulphur crude meets the EUs demand and grade requirements for both crude oil and oil products.

The Kingdom has long been the largest exporter of seaborne crude oil. Its outgoing seaborne exports rose by 17.2% in 2022 to 362.8m tonnes, with total exports from the Gulf that year growing 12.7% to 879.3m tonnes, accounting for 42.9% of global seaborne crude oil trade.

However, Europe only accounted for 10.7% of total Saudi exports. The bulk of Saudi cargoes that year went to Asia  with the country notching export increases of 14.2% to Japan, 17% to South Korea, 19.2% to India and 35% to members of the Association of South-East Asian Nations  as it is keen to maintain its market share in Asia and compete with Russia.

In 2022 Russias seaborne exports were also up 10.3% to 218.5m tonnes, shipping record amounts to countries like China, India and Turkey at discounted prices. US exports, meanwhile, rose by 22.3% to 164.3m tonnes.

Latin Americas potential

Brazil and Guyana are also playing expanding exports to Europe and  along with Canada, Norway and the US  are expected to reach record production levels in 2023 and expand global oil supply by 1.2m bpd, according to the International Energy Agency.

Of these emerging markets, Brazil redirecting flows from China and India, to the Americas and Europe in 2022. The country has plans for four new offshore production units to come online this year to add 480,000 bpd of new capacity.

Brazils annual exports of ethanol to Europe reached 600m litres, eclipsing its previous export record of 477m litres in 2010, as European demand for the biofuel grew amid high natural gas prices, and the EUs efforts to accelerate its energy transition and forego Russian hydrocarbons.

Considering Brazils plans to scale up and export green hydrogen to Europe, these new export relationships in oil and ethanol can lay a foundation for clean energy ambitions in the future.

Meanwhile, the small Latin American country of Guyana continues to realise impressive oil-production growth, freeing up much-needed volumes for Europe. The country grew its oil exports by 164% to 265,693 bpd in 2022, up from 100,645 bpd in 2021, with Europe receiving 49% of these outbound cargoes.

Guyanas long-term prospects are bullish, with consultancy Rystad Energy predicting the country increase its overall production from 360,000 bpd in 2022 to 830,000 bpd in 2025, 1m bpd in 2030 and 1.7m bpd in 2035. Indeed, its proximity to Europe offers oil-demand security for its future.

Additional potential volumes

Other emerging markets oil producers have potential to ramp up production, but the expected volume and destinations of exports, as well as whether production goals will be realised, remain to be seen.

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Argentina is among the most promising, as its large-scale Vaca Muerte shale field comes on-line after years of development. The countrys unconventional oil production reached 282,000 bpd in December 2022  the highest in a single month  equating to 45% of Argentinas total production of 622,500 bpd that month, the countrys best performance since 2009. The number of export requests filed in January to the countrys federal energy department rose to 39 in January, up from 35 in December and 34 in November, as producers forecast export opportunities in the year ahead.

Nigeria, historically an exporter to Europe and the Americas, could also play an enhanced role. Last Friday, the group chief executive of state-owned oil company Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation announced that its monthly output reached 1.6m bpd, up from under 1m bpd in July of last year, when the countrys exports reached their lowest levels in 25 years due to oil theft. Nigerias oil-rig count now stands at 13, its highest level since January 2020.

Looking to capitalise on higher demand for refined products in the wake of the EUs ban, Trinidad and Tobago recently invited its oil-rich neighbours Guyana and Venezuela to process oil in the country and has a 140,000-bpd refinery ready for the task.

However, some Latin American countries are retreating from the oil-export market. Mexico, once Latin Americas top producer, is now a net importer, and its three-month moving average of exports was down 5.5% month-over-month in December. Meanwhile, Colombian President Gustavo Petro  who campaigned last year on moving the country away from reliance on fossil fuel revenue and developing agriculture, renewable energy and tourism  raised taxes on the oil industry and pledged to stop giving new oil and gas exploration licences since his inauguration in August.

By Oxford Business Group

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Oil prices could hit the $90-$100 per barrel range in the second half of this year as global demand is set to reach record levels amid constrained supply, Russell Hardy, CEO at the worlds largest independent oil trader, Vitol Group, told Bloomberg Television on Monday.

The prospect of higher prices in the second half of the year, in the sort of $90-$100 range, is a real possibility, Hardy told Bloomberg in an interview.

According to Hardy, global oil demand will rise by 2.2 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2023 compared to 2022 and will reach a record level, driven by a jump in diesel, naphtha, and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) demand.

You dont have much room on the supply side is the reality, so the potential for a rally is certainly there, Hardy told Bloomberg.

Peak oil demand is expected to come around the end of this decade amid rapid decarbonization, but investment in oil supply will still be needed, Vitols top executive said.

Major U.S. shale operator Pioneer Natural Resources also sees $100 per barrel by the end of the year, while some banks are not convinced prices will hit triple digits in 2023.

With a significant pickup in Chinese demand, Brent Crude prices will break $90 this summer and climb back up to $100 sometime in the second half of the year, Pioneer CEO Scott Sheffield said earlier this month.

Brent Crude prices are not expected to reach $100 per barrel in 2023 unless a major geopolitical event rattles markets again, JPMorgan said this month. Russian crude oil production is expected to recover by June, while high price levels would prevent the U.S. from repurchasing crude to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), according to the Wall Street bank.

Goldman Sachs, for its part, still expects Brent Crude to hit $100 per barrel this year, but only in December, compared to earlier expectations of $100 oil as soon as mid-2023. Earlier this month, Goldman Sachs cut its average Brent price to $92 a barrel this year from $98. Despite the cut in oil price forecasts, Goldman Sachs is still one of the most bullish Wall Street banks on crude oil and commodities in general. Goldman continues to believe that there is a new supercycle in the making.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
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Israel's far-right government denied on Sunday most of the agreements that had been achieved in a meeting of senior Israeli and Palestinian security officials in Jordan.

The meeting was called by Jordan in a bid to soothe tensions ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

According to a statement released by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry after the meeting held in Aqaba, the Israeli and Palestinian representatives had agreed to de-escalation.

After "comprehensive and frank" discussions, which were also attended by officials from Egypt, the United States and Jordan, the Israeli and Palestinian officials stressed their commitment to all previous agreements between them, and to work towards a just and lasting peace.

They also underlined the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground and to prevent further violence and stressed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of three to six months.

The commitments include one by Israel to cease discussion of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorization of any outposts for six months.

Israel and the Palestinians agreed to uphold the status quo at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a flashpoint site in East Jerusalem that is holy to both Muslims and Jews, the statement said.

They have also agreed to pursue confidence-building measures and strengthen mutual trust in order to address outstanding issues through direct dialogue.

The officials from the five countries agreed to convene again in Sharm El Sheikh in March to achieve the goals listed above.

In the statement, Jordan, Egypt, and the U.S. said the understandings reached during the Aqaba meeting represent major progress towards re-establishing and deepening relations between the two sides.

They also stressed the significance of the Aqaba meeting which is believed to be the first such meeting between the two sides in years, and agreed to continue the talks under this formula, maintain the positive momentum and expand this agreement towards a wider political process leading to a just and lasting peace.

However, shortly after the meeting, Israel's government denied most of the agreements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who re-took power last December as the leader of a far-right coalition government, wrote on Twitter that the approval and construction of new housing units in the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank "will continue according to the original planning and construction schedule, without any changes."

The country's national security advisor Tzachi Hanegbi said in a separate statement that "in the coming months," Israel will legalize nine Israeli outposts and approve some 9,500 new housing units in the settlements.

"There is no limitation on the activity of the Israel Defense Forces," he added.

Several cabinet ministers also denied the agreement. Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a hardline and pro-settler politician, said the meeting was "useless" and vowed that the construction in the settlements will not be halted "even not for one day."

The meeting was held hours after a Palestinian gunman killed two Israelis in a drive-by attack in the occupied West Bank. The attack was the latest in months of soaring tensions which saw the killing of at least 60 Palestinians and 13 Israelis.
The windfall tax on UK North Sea producers is hitting all companies operating on the UK Continental Shelf with firms already announcing lower investments and deferring drilling plans, the new head of trade body Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) has warned.

Last autumn, the UK raised the windfall tax on the profits of oil and gas operators by 10 percentage points to 35% from January 1, 2023. The UK also extended the so-called Energy Profits Levy to the end of March 2028, from December 31, 2025, as originally planned when the levy was 25%.

The total tax rate on the oil and gas sector has thus increased to a massive 75%, the highest of any UK sector, OEUK says.

The super tax is hitting all offshore companies hard, large and small, not just those who make headlines, OEUKs new chief executive David Whitehouse told the Financial Times.

Operators in the UK are already looking to invest elsewhere which would leave the country increasingly reliant on fossil fuel imports, Whitehouse noted.

After the windfall tax was raised, Harbour Energy, the biggest oil and gas producer in the UK North Sea, backed out of the ongoing licensing round aimed at awarding more than 100 new licenses. Shell has said it would be re-evaluating each project comprising its $30.5 billion (25 billion) planned investment in the UK energy system, and TotalEnergies has said it would slash its investment in the UK by 25%.

In its latest operational update, Harbour Energy said in January that its total UK capital expenditure was reduced compared to previous expectations with certain opportunities no longer being pursued following the changes to the Energy Profit Levy (EPL).

While oil and gas prices have reverted to more normal levels we still face a tax rate of 75 per cent in the UK due to the recent tax changes, making investment in the country less competitive, Harbour Energys CEO Linda Cook said.

As a result, the EPL necessitated a review of our future activity levels in the UK and reinforced our ambition to grow and diversify internationally.

Commenting on calls for more taxes after Big Oils record profits for 2022, Mike Tholen, OEUKs director of sustainability, said early this month, That rate of UK tax is already so high it risks driving companies out of UK waters. All parties have acknowledged that we will need oil and gas for decades to come. So why risk damaging our own secure supplies from the North Sea?

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After being cut out of Europe, Russia is looking to form a sort of natural gas cartel, and Turkmenistan appears to be on board.

Gas-rich Turkmenistan is one of the few countries that has the potential to send gas to the European Union but is instead being pulled back into Moscows energy orbit.

Turkmenistan has doubled down on its energy ties with Russia.

At a time when gas-rich Turkmenistan could be pushing to diversify its export paths, it is instead allowing itself to be pulled back into Moscows energy orbit, experts say.

Russia is no longer the top buyer of natural gas from Turkmenistan, a country that is believed to depend on the fuel for three-quarters of its state revenues.

The main purchaser is China, which displaced Russia more than a decade ago and currently imports around four times as much gas from Turkmenistan as Russia does.

But if Beijing has traditionally been businesslike in its energy-trade relationship with Ashgabat, Moscows relations are more likely to involve poltical calculations.

This is especially the case as the Kremlin looks to forge new gas alliances after Europe made dramatic cuts in its imports of Russian gas amid the fallout of Moscows yearlong invasion of Ukraine.

Looking at the bigger picture, Turkmenistan is perhaps the only non-Russian source of natural gas that has the potential to make the European Unions energy transition more efficient and less expensive, Annette Bohr, an international affairs expert at Chatham House, told RFE/RL.

But Ashgabat is clearly coming down on the side of Russia and spurning opportunities to move its gas in a Western direction. It has chosen to move towards its authoritarian brothers-in-arms, Russia and Iran -- a policy that serves to safeguard its need for isolation, said Bohr.

Miller Time

Gazprom chief Aleksei Millers February 15 visit to Ashgabat, where he met with both President Serdar Berdymukhammedov and Turkmenistans newly crowned Leader of the Nation, Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, was his second in the last six months.

Russia has upped imports of natural gas from Turkmenistan from a low of zero in 2016 to around 10 billion cubic meters (bcm) per year in 2021, even if they are still a fraction of their peak of over 40 bcm in the mid-2000s, when Moscow used them to free up lucrative exports to Europe.

There were no indications from the official releases on the meeting that further increases were on the agenda, however, with Russias energy giant only vaguely referring to talks on the course and prospects of cooperation in the gas sector.

But Millers visit increased speculation that Russia is looking to ensure Turkmenistan is an asset rather than an obstacle as Gazprom seeks to reassert its clout in international gas markets after Miller conceded that 2022 was a difficult year.

One Russian Telegram channel cited by RFE/RLs Turkmen Service as being close to the Kremlin said Millers headline message to Turkmenistan was that Russia would block any attempt to build a Trans-Caspian Pipeline (TCP) connecting Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan, a development that would free up Azerbaijani gas for exports to Europe.

In return, [Turkmenistan] was offered participation in gas supplies directly to Turkey through Iran, the channel, whose name translates as A Look At The East, said. By cooperating with the scheme, Turkmenistan will become a full member of the gas analogue of OPEC, which is being created by Russia and Iran and to which Qatar intends to join, it continued.

Gazprom did not respond to a request from RFE/RL for comment.

Piping large quantities of gas across the Caspian Sea has been a stated ambition of Turkmenistan for at least 25 years, although it was never without hitches, even when there was clear investor interest.

A political agreement on the status of the Caspian Sea involving all five littoral states and a bilateral deal between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan settling contradictory claims in the Caspian Sea were only reached in the last few years.

Even then, Iran and Russia were never keen on the idea and have insisted on the right to block the project on environmental grounds.

Moreover, while a functioning TCP might have been useful to Europe this winter, trends in the European energy market do not favor it, argued Laurent Ruseckas, executive director for the Finance & Capital Markets team at S&P Global Commodity Insights.

Among these are the expansion of European infrastructure related to liquefied natural gas (LNG), which the EU has been importing much more of amid its abandonment of Russian gas, and the EUs long-term commitment to transitioning to renewable energy, Ruseckas argued.

Theres real reluctance to commit to or finance big pipeline projects. In the medium-term, Europe will not need the gas. And then there is the question of who is going to want to build and pay for pipelines to serve a market that will be net zero by 2050, he added.

Heading South With Russian Help?

In December, Serdar Berdymukhammedov met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the western Turkmen city of Awaza, with Erdogan offering Ankaras backing for a pipeline connecting the two countries.

But Turkmenistan has told Western diplomats that it is not interested in downsized alternatives to the pipeline that would carry considerably less gas but might be less costly and quicker to build, said Bohr.

[Turkmenistan] prefers Europe to come along with money and a long-term contract for 30 bcm. This is something that is not going to happen, she said, noting that Ankara is growing weary of Ashgabats position on the topic.

Absent an outlet to ramp up exports to the West and looking to balance its sales north to Russia and east to China, Turkmenistan is heading a consortium for a pipeline that would send gas to India via Pakistan and Afghanistan called TAPI, a multibillion-dollar blueprint that has no known investor.

Russia has also expressed an interest in this project, though it has given no firm commitment.

Zamir Kabulov, the Russian envoy to Kabul, said in January that security concerns previously expressed over the project had lost some of their severity -- a likely reference to the Talibans assertion of full territorial control of Afghanistan.

Any involvement in the project on Moscows side would depend on the commercial approach, Kabulov said.

Ruseckas of S&P Global Commodity Insights told RFE/RL that his estimation of the projects chances of coming to fruition had gone from zero to a very low number, but not for the reasons mentioned by Kabulov.

I think for India and Pakistan, last year was a shock in terms of how expensive LNG spot prices became, he said. They would have loved to have had TAPI in place when LNG prices started to skyrocket.

But fundamental problems with the project, including transiting Afghanistan and reservations about the technical capacities of Turkmenistans state gas company Turkmengaz, have not changed, Ruseckas said.

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As for investments from Moscow, Russia isnt exactly a country that has billions and billions of dollars to spend on a pipeline right now, he noted.

But the one enticement that Russia has reportedly offered Turkmenistan -- exports to third countries via Iran and its existing gas infrastructure -- would not significantly change Ashgabats regional energy profile.

John Roberts, an energy security specialist from the British-based research organization Methinks, told RFE/RLs Turkmen Service that the ceiling of what Turkmenistan could send to Turkey this way would be 5 bcm per year.

Even then, it is not clear whether Turkey would approve of the idea, with Ankara likely to balance opposition to the project from the European Union, Roberts said of the transit offer that Iranian energy officials have publicly endorsed.

But Russia does have leverage over Ashgabat, in that the last time it slashed gas imports from the country -- albeit during a nadir in global energy prices -- it caused Turkmenistan serious economic pain.

In a rare essay published by Turkmengaz in February 2015, right after Turkmenistan was forced into a sudden devaluation of its currency on the back of falling gas revenues, the company singled Russia out as an unreliable partner.

The text of that eyebrow-raising missive is no longer online.

But Bohr told RFE/RL that Turkmenistan would be wise not to put too much faith in Russias vision.

Russia is attempting a major reconfiguration of the gas market, and its isolation from the West has made it more dependent on Iran -- and this has repercussions for Turkmenistan, she said.

Moscow is looking to gain access in the future through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan to Iran, and from there to Pakistan and India. However, existing routes to Pakistan provide only small volumes, and there are huge infrastructural constraints and logistical and technical problems associated with these still very hazy ideas.

By RFE/RL

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Western skeptics say that China will need to tell Moscow things they don't want to hear in order to make any major progress toward peace.

In the proposal, China calls for the end of Western sanctions against Moscow, humanitarian corridors to evacuate civilians, regular grain exports, and calls against the use of nuclear weapons.

A position paper unveiled by Beijing pushing for a cease-fire in Ukraine has been met skeptically by many experts and Western officials who question Chinas ability to broker a truce given its growing ties with Russia.

Released by China on February 24 to coincide with the one-year anniversary of Russias invasion, the 12-point proposal calls for an end to Western sanctions against Moscow, setting up humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of civilians, ensuring the regular export of Ukrainian grain, security guarantees for Russia, and calls against the use of nuclear weapons.

The paper pitches a gradual de-escalation of hostilities that would pave the way for peace talks, but Chinas call for a truce between Russia and Ukraine quickly faced scrutiny as it appeared to reaffirm Beijings position that the West is fueling the conflict while seemingly offering Moscow a reprieve.

Beijing is speaking to a global audience with this paper, Raffaello Pantucci, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, told RFE/RL. But for China to seriously push for peace, they would have to tell Moscow things they dont want to hear, and there is no evidence that [Beijing] has ever told Russia to step back -- either behind the scenes or in front of the cameras.

Peace-Broker Status

Those stepped-up ties were most recently on display during a February 23 visit to Moscow by Wang Yi, Chinas top diplomat, and saw Russian President Vladimir Putin hail new frontiers in the relationship as he signaled that Chinese leader Xi Jinping would visit Russia in the spring.

The paper itself mainly revisits long-held Chinese foreign policy positions and views on the war, such as asking for all countries to ensure that sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity be effectively guaranteed.

But it also included language that appeared to be directed at the West, including calls to end the Cold War mentality toward the conflict and warning against expanding military blocs, which are terms the Chinese Foreign Ministry has used in the past to refer to what it views as Washingtons interference in other countries affairs and the growth of the NATO military alliance.

[Its] interesting in any case, since China has so far not done many things in terms of mediation, a senior European Union official who requested anonymity because they were not cleared to speak to the media, told RFE/RL. I think the main goal is to improve their own reputation.

A separate senior EU official told RFE/RL that the proposal should be seen in the context of China looking to appear as a leader of the Global South and as a peace promoter, adding that Europe is not wooed by the Chinese initiative.

The Chinese call for a truce comes after a year of Beijing looking to present itself as a neutral party to the war -- rejecting Western attempts to get China to condemn Russias war in Ukraine.

A few weeks before the Russian invasion, Xi and Putin heralded a new era of relations by announcing a no-limits partnership between their two countries that many analysts say is driven by a shared desire to push back against the United States.

Throughout the war, Beijing has carefully avoided any bold moves to help Russia that would lead to Western backlash while simultaneously deepening cooperation with Moscow. This has included providing crucial economic and diplomatic support for Russia, such as buying up Russian energy and parroting Moscows narrative of the war in its media and at international forums like the United Nations.

On February 23, Beijing also abstained -- for the fourth time -- from a UN vote demanding that Russian forces withdraw from Ukraine.

Some Western officials had hoped Xi could use Chinas growing economic support for Russia as leverage to nudge Putin toward the negotiating table, but Temur Umarov, a fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, says Beijings position paper and its new, more visible role is about cementing its status as a global superpower that seeks to counterbalance the West on the world stage.

This is a very vague text that doesnt really bring anything new, Umarov told RFE/RL. Its hard to imagine how this could affect the future of the war in Ukraine.

Eyeing Beijing And Moscow

Public reactions to the proposal have ranged from critical to muted.

Speaking to CNN shortly after the paper was released, U.S. national-security adviser Jake Sullivan dismissed much of the proposals contents, saying it could have stopped at point one, which is to respect the sovereignty of all nations.

Ukraine wasnt attacking Russia. NATO wasnt attacking Russia. The United States wasnt attacking Russia, he added. Russias aims in the war were to wipe Ukraine off the map, to absorb it into Russia.

In Beijing, Jorge Toledo, the EUs ambassador to China, told reporters at a February 24 briefing that what China released was a position paper not a peace plan, and that the bloc would study it.

Ukrainian officials were not consulted on the paper, but Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that Wang had shared key elements of the Chinese peace plan with him during a meeting at the Munich Security Conference.

Speaking at the same press briefing as Toledo in Beijing, Zhanna Leshchynska, Ukraines charge daffaires at its embassy in China, said that the Chinese paper was a good sign.

We hope they also urge Russia to stop the war and withdraw its troops, Leshchynska added.

During a February 23 press conference in Kyiv with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez prior to the papers release, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called the Chinese move an important first step.

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I think that, in general, the fact that China started talking about peace in Ukraine, I think that it is not bad, he said.

The Chinese paper also comes amid rising tensions between Beijing and Washington and accusations that China is considering supplying military equipment to Russia.

That claim has been raised by U.S. officials multiple times recently, and The Wall Street Journal reported that Washington is considering releasing intelligence on the alleged arms transfer.

The German magazine Der Spiegel also claimed in a report published on February 23, citing unnamed sources, that Moscow was in negotiations with a Chinese company about supplying large quantities of strike drones.

Chinese officials havent commented on the Der Spiegel report but have strongly rejected the U.S. claims, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin saying, The U.S. side isnt qualified to point fingers at China or order China around, and we never accept the [United States] criticizing Sino-Russian relations.

Those accusations, coupled with the fact that Xi has yet to speak with Zelenskiy since Russias invasion one year ago, hurt Chinas credibility as a mediator and only add to the skepticism over the new position paper, Umarov says.

Kyiv knows that China is on Moscow's side, he says. China's proposals might not be pro-Russian per se, but they are certainly anti-West, and that makes it difficult for Ukraine to meaningfully engage with any of this.

By RFE/RL

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Crude oil from Kazakhstan started flowing via the Russian pipeline network to Poland for further delivery to Germany, Russian pipeline monopoly operator Transneft said on Monday.

Kazakh crude oil began flowing to Germany via transit through Poland, Transnefts representative Igor Demin told Russian news agency TASS.

This weekend, Kazakhstans oil pipeline operator KazTransOil delivered 20,000 tons of Kazakhstani oil to Transnefts system of oil pipelines in the direction of the Adamova Zastava oil delivery point for further transit to Germany, the company said on Monday.

In December 2022, KazTransOil applied to transport a total of 1.2 million tons of Kazakh crude oil through Transnefts system of trunk oil pipelines in the direction of the Adamova Zastava point for further delivery to Germany, the Kazakh firm said today.

Meanwhile, crude oil deliveries from Russia to Poland were suspended, Russian media reported. Russia claims that incomplete paperwork prevented the supply of Russian oil to Poland, and Polish refineries were cut off.

According to a Transneft spokesperson, crude oil should have been delivered to Polish refineries in the second half of February, but routing orders with confirmed resource and transit payment were not executed, as carried by Russian media.

In addition, operational changes were made to the schedule, excluding supplies for Polish consumers, Transneft noted.

Polands top refiner, PKN Orlen, said this weekend that it had stopped receiving oil from Russia via the Druzhba pipeline. Orlen said it had prepared for such a scenario, and consumers would not be impacted.

Germany halted imports of Russian oil via pipeline on January 1, following through on a previous pledge to stop buying Russian pipeline crude despite the fact that the EU embargo exempts pipeline flows from Russia to Europe.

The EU embargo on imports of Russian crude oil by sea came into effect on December 5, but pipeline oil flows to landlocked EU member states are exempt from the ban.

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Kazakhstan could halt natural gas exports next winter to prevent a domestic gas supply crisis, QazaqGaz deputy chief executive Arman Kasenov was quoted as saying by Russian media on Monday.

Kazakhstan, the biggest oil producer in Central Asia, exports natural gas to Russia and China. QazaqGaz manages Kazakhstans natural gas transportation infrastructure, provides international transit, and sells gas on the domestic and foreign markets.

There will be no deficit of gas in Kazakhstan next winter, but only if there are no exports, QazaqGazs Kasenov said.

Kazakhstans gas demand was 21 billion cubic meters in 2022, while exports were 5 billion cubic meters. However, Kazakhstans gas consumption continues to rise and is expected to double to 40 billion cubic meters by 2030, Kasenov added.

Last year in June, Kazakhstans Energy Minister Bolat Akchulakov said that the countrys current priority was not to export natural gas but to meet domestic demand.

Kazakhstan expects a deficit, and it will cut gas exports to zero by 2025, the energy minister said.

And then we will have to think where to get gas to meet the growing demand, in addition to our own production, Akchulakov said in June 2022.

Meanwhile, crude oil from Kazakhstan started flowing via the Russian pipeline network to Poland for further delivery to Germany, Russian pipeline monopoly operator Transneft said on Monday.

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This weekend, Kazakhstans oil pipeline operator KazTransOil delivered 20,000 tons of Kazakhstani oil to Transnefts system of oil pipelines in the direction of the Adamova Zastava oil delivery point for further transit to Germany, the company said today. In December 2022, KazTransOil applied to transport a total of 1.2 million tons of Kazakh crude oil through Transnefts system of trunk oil pipelines in the direction of the Adamova Zastava point for further delivery to Germany, the Kazakh firm said today.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Saudi Arabia has signed an agreement and memorandum of understanding for $400 million in aid to Ukraine during a surprise visit of Saudi Arabias foreign minister to Kyiv, days after the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Saudi Arabia, which leads the OPEC+ oil production alliance with Russia, sent its Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah to Kyiv this weekend for talks with top Ukrainian officials including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The visit was the first from such a high-ranking Saudi official to Ukraine in 30 years.

As part of the visit, two documents were signed in the President's Office formalizing the providing of a $400 million aid package to Ukraine. Grateful to Prince @FaisalbinFarhan for constructive dialogue and mutual understanding, said Andriy Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.

The $400-million package includes financing of $300 million worth of oil derivatives as a grant from Saudi Arabia through the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) in favor of Ukraine, the Saudi Press Agency said. The remaining $100 million will be humanitarian assistance to Ukraine from Saudi Arabia.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs renewed the Kingdom's keenness and support for all international efforts to resolve the Ukrainian-Russian crisis politically, the Saudi agency reported.

The two countries agreed to deepen cooperation in the investment and energy sectors, Yermak said at a news conference - as carried by Ukrainian news outlet Ukrinform.

Saudi Arabia has refrained from publicly criticizing Russia for the invasion of Ukraine since the start of the war a year ago. The Kingdom, as the de facto leader and the largest oil producer of OPEC, is leading the OPEC+ group whose key non-OPEC member is Russia.

Last week, Saudi Arabia was one of 141 countries that voted in favor of a non-binding United Nations General Assembly resolution calling on Russia to end hostilities and withdraw its forces from Ukraine.

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Forecasters are not expecting the first few days of March to roar in like a lion in eastern Nebraska, and thats a good thing.

Showers and scattered thunderstorms are expected to move out of the Omaha area during the Monday morning commute with highs near 50 degrees on tap through midweek.

Were not really expecting a whole of anything after the rain clears out, Dirk Petersen, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Valley, said Sunday. On Monday, were expecting a high (temperature) right around 50 so it will be a pleasant day. The rest of the week should be above normal (temperatures) with a high again of 50 on Tuesday.

The chances for severe winter weather are diminishing as the calendar pages turn toward the start of spring on March 20, Petersen said. Meteorologists measured the frost point at 6 inches in Valley on Saturday. This weeks continued warm weather should decrease that depth, he said.

Were running out of time to deal with really miserable weather, he said. Even with the recent snowstorms, its warmed up so quickly afterward that (the snow) doesnt last.

The high temperature Wednesday is forecast to be in the upper 40s with chances for more precipitation moving in during the evening hours. Petersen said there will be about a 30% chance for precipitation after 7 p.m.

We are going to see a bit of a cooling trend Wednesday and Thursday, he said. There will even be a chance for snow as a weak system passes through the area.

The high temperatures Thursday are expected to range from the 20s to mid-30s in northeast Nebraska to the upper 30s in Omaha. By Friday, that system should push to the east and northeast with highs in the 40s.

On Sunday, the Omaha area could see a return to high temperatures in the 50s.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2023
A 47-year-old Marquette, Nebraska, man was arrested Sunday on suspicion of second-degree murder in connection with the death of his wife.

Jeffrey Adams allegedly caused the death of Angela Adams, 49, by striking her multiple times, according to a statement from the Nebraska State Patrol. He was booked into the Hamilton County Jail.

Deputies were called to a residence in Marquette at 12:45 p.m. Sunday. The deputies located Angela Adams dead inside the home and requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol.

Investigators learned that Adams had been with her husband Saturday evening, but he was not at the home when authorities arrived. A short time later, Jeffrey Adams arrived at the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office to turn himself in.

Investigators have determined that the incident began with an argument, during which Jeffrey Adams struck Angela Adams multiple times. Jeffrey Adams then left the home.

Marquette is a village of about 230 people located about 22 miles northeast of Grand Island.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of February 2023
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People walk past a damaged building in Mariupol, Feb. 18, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Several thousand demonstrators called for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, and a peaceful solution to the Ukraine crisis in Brussels on Sunday.

The demonstrators called for negotiations to achieve a peaceful solution to the Ukraine crisis. "This is the only way forward," Thierry Bodson, president of the General Labour Federation of Belgium (FGTB), told Xinhua.

"Let's stop the fire ... Let the politicians settle the diplomatic affairs, the people want peace, bread," demonstrator Yvyes Eckman said.

Another demonstrator Isabelle Minnon said that "everywhere in the world when you take sanctions it is always the people who pay."
BLOOMINGTON  A woman-owned Bloomington boutique has a new look and new neighbors.

In October, MiMis Boutique relocated to Suite 1048 of the Eastland Mall, 1615 E. Empire St., Bloomington. Formerly found by Maurices, owner Mimi Lam told The Pantagraph in a Sunday interview that her store has since tripled in size, currently measuring 3,400 square feet.

Now, the boutiques positioned directly across from retailer rue21 and adjacent to gift shop and clothing store Spencers. Its also just down the hall from fashion outlet American Eagle. Another neighbor is the Minority Business Development Center, which opened in November.

Its been a long road for the Senegal-born business owner, who now calls Bloomington home and is raising two boys with her husband. Lam said her first business began as a small booth in the Malcolm Shabazz market in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. She struggled with display space then and needed to frequently retrieve items for customers.

Step into her boutiques updated site, and Lam said she hopes to wow you with an unique arrangement of colorful clothing. She offers traditional African print apparel for men, women and kids including dresses, wraps, skirts, shirts and wide-legged palazzo pants  plus modern styles of T-shirts, pants, dresses, sweats and jumpsuits. Accessories are also available.

Lam continues to welcome all to patronize her shop.

She confirmed the walking traffic is better since her move, which also added more fitting rooms to the shop. Lam added mall staff are dependable on tidying up and providing spare tables. She first opened up in August 2021.

She has a grand reopening event planned for 3-6:30 p.m. March 4. Lam will offer refreshments, a 10% discount on clothing items, and a free matching headwrap with each dress purchase  a deal shes extending from Black History Month. Student discounts of 10% are also regularly available.

The woman behind it all

Lam said visitors have commented on how often she updates her front window mannequins. Attractively designed sequined dresses in bright red and black varieties draw eyes and teen footsteps onto her sales floor.

She said her dresses are truly one-size-fits-all, thanks to an elastic waistband paired with a cloth belt to help secure more petite figures. Lam said her skirts are best-sellers, and crop-top sweats are a hit in the modern section.

For customers looking for more formal options they can wear to church, Lam points to a three-piece yellow outfit with matching bottom-wraps and tops, and a traditional African wrap-necklace. She has traditional dress styles she recommends for weddings and graduation ceremonies.

Modern dress varieties include a selection of prom dresses, and a plus-size section with one-shoulder dresses.

She said shes helped people come out of their shells of fashion, switching out all black-colored outfits for more vibrant options.

Mimi, you got me into color, she said her customers have told her.

Some visit the store to learn about culture, Lam said, and to hear advice on traveling to Africa. She also said its important that a portion of her jewelry sales help women back in Senegal who make her products.

I just try to buy from women who really, really need it, she said. Lam added she sends scrap material back to them too, for free.

The Pantagraph first reported Lams mother assists her with supplying dresses for the shop, and has over 40 years of tailoring experience in Senegal.

When her mother came to visit her first storefront at the mall, Lam said her mom was proud seeing her run a business.

She said her mom sat in a chair behind the register. As Lam greeted customers, she pointed to her mom and said: This is the woman behind that.

Involved in styling

Lam said shes still consulting customers on style advice. She said she gives people an honest opinion on how their outfits are coming together.

She said shes commonly asked how to match a bottom with a top a shopper picked out. Lam said she can advise whether to go with a short or long dress.

Lam said she wants people feeling good about themselves when they leave  she doesnt just want to make a quick sale.

Visitors, she said, stop in all the time to take photos, and many customers are referred to her. Lam said her space feels like a museum.

After 18 months of being in business, Lam said shes found that people are not afraid to come in.

I want to help, she said. I want to be involved.

MiMis Boutique is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. She is also seeking employee applicants. Those with questions can call 309-557-0378 during store hours.
NORMAL  An Illinois State University professor will be holding a book signing event this weekend.

From 4:30-5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 5, she will join Steve Fast for a conversation at Waiting Room Records, 113 W. North St., Normal, with a book signing to follow.

As professor and director of ISU's Creative Technologies Department, the author detailed in her book her experiences performing in the late 1980s through early 2000s indie rock scene with Champaign band Poster Children.

Marshack wrote about going on tour and pioneering into the digital age of music production and networking. The text includes around 75 tour reports posted on early internet webpages, narrating her band's story  with both good and bad moments included.

She elaborated in the text on how her music journey was part of "a grassroots uprising where people happen upon interesting music, musical instruments and a community of open-minded musicians, and create their own paths.

Her book is available for ordering on the Poster Children website, the UI Press website and Amazon.com. It hits shelves at Barnes & Noble on Tuesday.

25 iconic musicians you may not know were LGBTQ+ 25 iconic musicians you may not know were LGBTQ+ Ma Rainey Lady Gaga David Bowie Joan Jett Queen Latifah Frank Ocean St. Vincent Bessie Smith Peaches Shea Diamond Lou Reed Janelle Monae Cole Porter Michael Stipe Tracy Chapman Laura Jane Grace Ani DiFranco Lil Nas X Janis Joplin Freddie Mercury Carrie Brownstein kd lang Elton John Ricky Martin Brandi Carlile
How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region.

100 years ago

Feb. 27, 1923: Transformation of the coliseum by the decorations for the annual midwinter Bloomington Automobile Dealers' Association show has commenced and will be ready for the four-day show opening on Wednesday. More than $100,000 worth of the latest models will be shown. Currently, there are about 10,000 automobiles in McLean County, and nearly a million in Illinois.

75 years ago

Feb. 27, 1948: About 80 volunteer workers manned 20 trucks and tractor-drawn wagons in Minonk to rid the city streets and yards of debris from the New Year's Day sleet storm. Crews worked all day picking up brush and limbs, piled along curbs by residents, and carting it to the city dump. Work stopped over the noon hour while crews visited Morrison's restaurant for dinner, paid for by the Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of the cleanup.

50 years ago

Feb. 27, 1973: Liquor sales will be legal in Normal in two to three months, breaking a 37-year prohibition. Voters by a 3 to 2 margin approved the sale of liquor in the original package and by the drink in establishments seating 75 or more people in an advisory referendum. Mayor Carol Reitan said it would take two to three months to get an ordinance written and approved. The 6,433 vote total broke records for Normal.

25 years ago

Feb. 27, 1998: Bloomington-Normal is among the first markets to sample a new brand of citrus soft drink from Coca-Cola named Citra, a spokeswoman said. The three-phase rollout will involve a large number of retailers in about 100 markets throughout 12 states, including the Twin Cities. Citra's packaging features bright yellow graphics with an infusion of purple and green, and will be available in 20-ounce, single-serve bottles; six-, 12- and 24-packs and one-, two- and three-liter bottles.

101 years ago: See vintage Pantagraph ads from 1922 Gerthart's Union Gas and Electric Co. Hoover Dr. J.A. Moore Dentists Moberly & Klenner W.P. Garretson W.H. Roland Pease's Candy Thor 32 Electric Washing Machine The Kaiser's Story of the War Ike Livingston & Sons Gossard Corsets Cat'n Fiddle 'Stolen Moments' Case Model X The Johnson Transfer & Fuel Co. The Pantagraph want ads Franklin Motor Car Co. 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court' Calumet Baking Powder Mayer Livingston & Co. Newsmarket 'The Emperor Jones' 'California Fig Syrup'
NORMAL  Illinois National Guard Commander Maj. Gen. Rich Neely was inducted into the College of Business' 2023 Hall of Fame at Illinois State University on Thursday.

Neely is also the adjutant general of Illinois. He is a 1989 graduate from the university. He also has a master's degree in public administration, policy and leadership from the National Defense University.

Neely was among five individuals inducted into the Hall of Fame. He offered advice to College of Business students during the ceremony.

He has served 38 years in the military in several command, staff and operational positions including principal deputy director of Air Operations at the Pentagon for the National Guard Bureau, where he oversaw intelligence, air, nuclear, cyber and space operations and the Air National Guard's chief information officer.

During his time at the National Guard Bureau, he served as chief of current operations, where he was the primary policy developer and planner for National Guard domestic operations and defense support to civil authorities and crisis management for federal interagency partners in support of the 54 states and territories.

Neely has deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is also a national leader in cybersecurity and critical infrastructure as it applies to emergency management.

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The racial wealth divide between Black and white Americans is much bigger  and more stubborn  than many of us realize.

The median African American household has just 6% of the wealth of the median white American household, the Institute for Policy Studies found in 2020. Thats actually a lower percentage than four decades prior. The racial wealth divide is vast  and it may be growing.

This is a result of public policy -- not just slavery but also segregation, mass incarceration, housing and lending discrimination, and other injustices that persist. Closing this gap will also take public policy  including some form of cash payments to help Black families build their wealth, otherwise known as reparations.

More and more communities are exploring what this might look like.

One particular headline-grabbing plan comes from San Francisco, where the median Black income is just $31,000, compared to $116,000 for white people  an even greater divide than the country at large. San Franciscos nonbinding Draft Reparations Plan, released in December, calls for $5 million for each eligible African American resident in reparations.

The primary critique of this plan has been the expense. The Hoover Institution, a conservative think tank, estimates that $5 million for every eligible Black adult in the city would amount to $175 billion, significantly more than the city budget of $14 billion yearly.

Quote In my policy work, Ive proposed $20,000 a year for 20 years for all African-Americans who meet the requirements for reparations.

Cash payments can and should play an essential role in economic repair for African Americans. But I dont think one large lump-sum payment is ideal for wealth building. In my policy work, Ive proposed $20,000 a year for 20 years for all African-Americans who meet the requirements for reparations.

A substantial sum of funds over 20 years is much more likely to be used for sustained economic advancement than a one-time mass payment. In San Francisco, this would still be a significant expenditure  about $900 million a year  but much more affordable than a $175 billion expenditure.

Still, cash is just one piece of the puzzle.

What gets lost in the discussion about numbers is the more holistic approach developed in San Francisco that can serve as a national model for addressing the Black-white racial wealth divide. The plan recognizes the depth and breadth of the divide and seriously approaches the various asset categories that build  or destroy  wealth.

In its detailed action section, it calls for the city to:

Close the school-to-prison pipeline.

Use land-use controls to reduce the number of unhealthy establishments in Black communities.

Offer tax relief and incentives to Black-owned businesses.

Establish a community land trust governed by Black residents.

Generate local political support to bring back funding for affirmative action programs, among many other constructive steps.

Of course, for local reparations to be most effective, a national reparations program is needed to build on. The federal government is much better able to fund the broad and bold initiatives required to address what many have called our nations original sin, white supremacist racism.

Whats more, many federal policies  such as passing a robust living wage, developing a Medicare for all program, allowing the Postal Service to offer low-cost banking services and more  would benefit Americans of every race while reducing the racial wealth gap.

Repairing this damage is expensive. But not making the necessary investments to bridge this divide costs even more.

Aside from the headline-grabbing figures, the holistic approach of San Franciscos draft plan makes it a model for the type of federal intervention necessary to address racial, economic inequality. The Black-white economic divide keeps about 1 in 5 African-Americans in poverty and leads to the continuing mass incarceration of African Americans, among many other injustices.

Without deep and widespread intervention, our centuries-old racial wealth divide will continue for centuries. It costs the nation and its African American citizens too much not to invest in reparations.
Government has successfully concluded the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) for GH-denominated notes and bonds issued by the state, the Energy Sector Levy Act (E.S.L.A. Plc.) and Daakye Trust Plc.



This achievement is an important milestone for government in implementing the Post-COVID-19 Programme for Economic Growth (PC-PEG) during the current economic crisis. Under the programme, government managed to restructure bonds to the tune of GH87.76billion.



According to the Ministry of Finance, the settlement was made in line with terms and conditions stipulated in the 2nd Amended and Restated Exchange Memorandum dated 3rd February 2023. On the settlement date, which was Tuesday 21st February 2023, 16 series of new bonds were issued to eligible holders whose tenders were accepted by government.



The principal amount of new bonds per holder is composed of the outstanding principal amount of eligible bonds tendered by a holder, plus any amount of accrued interest payable in respect thereof; was allocated among holders based on each holders category as per the exchange memorandum. The principal amount was credited to their respective securities account at the Central Securities Depository (CSD) from which each holders eligible bonds were tendered.



All tenders accepted by government resulted in the electronic cancellation of such eligible bonds at the CSD on the settlement date, in the case of eligible bonds issued by government. Meanwhile, eligible bonds issued by E.S.L.A. Plc. and Daakye Trust Plc. were transferred on the settlement date in favour of government, the holder of such bonds.



On the settlement date, government also signed the new bond documentation  consisting of the new deed of covenant under which the new bonds were constituted and issued, including the terms and conditions governing the new bonds attached thereto, and the pricing supplement specific to each series of new bonds. Copies of the new bond documentation have been made available on dedicated websites of the Ministry of Finance, the CSD and the Invitation Website.



Additionally, copies have been made available for inspection by holders of new bonds at the CSD.



The DDEPs successful conclusion is a positive development for the economy, as it will reduce governments borrowing costs and improve its fiscal position.



In the statement, the Ministry of Finance expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who participated in the DDEP, including holders of eligible bonds, financial advisors, legal advisors and the Central Securities Depository.



It also reassured the public of its commitment to implementing sound economic policies and strategies that will stimulate economic growth and create jobs. The ministry has urged all stakeholders to continue supporting governments efforts toward achieving its development goals.

Source: B&FT









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The Ghana Education Service has sent out a strong worded caution to heads of second cycle schools across the country who are engaging in the sales of items that are on the prospectus for their first year students.



According to a release by the GES, and signed by the Acting Director, Schools and Instruction Division, Prince Charles Agyemang-Duah, some of the items being sold are free.



The statement added that the GES takes a strong exception to the practice and have since ordered all such persons to desist from it.



It has come to the attention of the Management of the Ghana Education Service that some Heads of Second Cycle Schools are issuing unapproved prospectus and also selling some of the items on the prospectus to Form One students who report to their schools for admission. Some Heads are also allegedly selling free items that are supplied by the government to the students.



Management of the Ghana Education Service takes strong exception to this practice, and wishes to state unequivocally that the practice is prohibited and must cease with immediate effect, the statement said.



The statement also said that strong sanctions and investigations have been initiated into the matter and the perpetrators will be dealt with.



Investigations will soon commence into the issues to ensure that the right things are done in our schools. Heads of Second Cycle Schools are therefore, cautioned to stick to the approved harmonised prospectus for students. Any Head of School caught demanding any item(s) aside the approved ones will be severely sanctioned, the statement added.



The statement also directed all regional directors of education to visit all schools under their supervision and ensure that the directive is carried out to the letter.



See the full statement below:



















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Professor Ebenezer Oduro Owusu, President of the Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG) has cautioned students against all forms of examination malpractices in the school.



Examination malpractice is an indiscipline act that the PUG will not condone because it turns out young people become leaders of no integrity in society.



He was speaking at a Matriculation ceremony of over 900 undergraduate students for the 2022/2023 academic year held at the akuapem campus at Akropong.



As a faith-based University, we pay much attention to integrity during course assessments and examinations and our dream is to conduct examinations without the use of invigilators, he announced.



To that end, the school has instituted the integrity campaign to ensure all who passed through the school exhibit integrity in every field of endeavour for the advancement of society.



Prof. Owusu reminded the matriculants that they were on probation for their studies and could be redrawn at any time for unsatisfactory academic work and misconduct.



The matriculation was done in three sessions for applicants of the Akuapem, Tema and Abetifi campuses and comprised 331 males and 584 females pursuing various undergraduate programs.



The Presbyterian University, Ghana was established in 2003 with Five campuses in Tema, Akropong, Kumasi, Agogo and Akropong and received a presidential charter last year.





Source: GNA









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Ghana has recorded two confirmed cases of Lassa fever disease.



A statement signed by the Director General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye on Sunday, February 26, 2023, said the first case was a 40-year-old trader, who was unwell for a period of about two weeks and subsequently died at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.



The second case, who is a contact of the first case, is currently on admission but is very stable.



Below is the statement



The Ghana Health Service received notification of two confirmed Lassa fever cases from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research on 24th February, 2023. Both cases reside in Accra. The first case was a 40-year-old trader, who was unwell for a period of about two weeks and finally died at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. The second case, who is a contact of the fatal case, is currently on admission but is very stable. So far, 56 contacts have been identified and are being followed up.



Lassa fever (a viral hemorrhagic fever) is endemic in Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. Ghana recorded its first case in 2011.





Following the notification, the underlisted public health measures have been undertaken.

Public Health Emergency Management committees at all levels (National, Regions and Districts) have been activated.

Detailed investigation including environmental assessment has started.

Essential medications and logistics including Personal Protecting Equipment (PPE) are being mobilized.

Contact tracing and management are on-going.

Quarantine of contacts has been instituted and daily follow up by health staff is ongoing.

Strict Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) with barrier nursing has been instituted

Sensitization of health staff on Lassa fever has started.

Community sensitization and education on Lassa fever are ongoing.



Brief about Lassa Fever



 Lassa fever is caused by Lassa virus and the incubation period is 2-21 days.





 The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with food or household items contaminated with rodent (Rats, Mice) urine or faeces.



 Lassa virus may also be spread between humans through direct contact with the blood, urine, faeces, or other bodily fluids of a person infected with Lassa fever. Sexual transmission of Lassa virus has been reported.



Symptoms of Lassa fever



The early symptoms of Lassa fever may include fever and general weakness.



Persons may later present with headache, sore throat, muscle pain, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, cough, and abdominal pain.



In severe cases, there maybe bleeding from the mouth, nose, vagina or stomach. Death usually occurs within 14 days of onset in fatal cases.



Treatment and prophylaxis



There is medicine (antiviral) for treatment and much effective if taken early. There is currently no vaccine that protects against Lassa fever.



Prevention and control



Prevention relies on promoting community hygiene to discourage rodents from entering our homes. Effective measures include storing grain and other foodstuffs in rodent-proof containers, disposing of garbage far from the home, maintaining clean households and keeping cats.



Let us also avoid contact with blood and body fluids while caring for sick persons.



The Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with our partners, wishes to assure the general public that all efforts are being made to contain this outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus.



SIGNED

DR PATRICK KUMA-ABOAGYE

DIRECTOR GENERAL

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Early results have started to arrive from Nigeria's tightest election since the end of military rule in 1999.



Official results from the southwestern Ekiti state show a clear victory for ruling party candidate Bola Tinubu in one of his strongholds.



Further results will not be formally announced until 10:00 GMT on Monday.



Following widespread delays and attacks on some polling stations on Saturday, voting was postponed until Sunday in parts of the country.



Voting continued through the night in some areas.



Turnout appears to be high, especially among young people who make up about a third of the 87 million eligible voters.



This makes it the biggest democratic exercise in Africa.



The election has seen an unprecedented challenge to the two-party system that has dominated Nigeria for 24 years.



Peter Obi from the previously little known Labour Party, Mr Tinubu from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Atiku Abubakar of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are all seen as potential winners. There are 15 other presidential candidates.



A candidate needs to have the most votes and 25% of ballots cast in two-thirds of Nigeria's 36 states to be declared the winner.



Otherwise, there will be a run-off within 21 days - a first in Nigeria's history.



Saturday's voting was marred by long delays at polling stations, as well as scattered reports of ballot-box snatching and attacks by armed men, especially in southern areas, where Mr Obi has strong backing.



Dr Nkem Okoli was just about to vote in the Lekki district of the biggest city Lagos when masked men attacked the polling station.



"There was pandemonium. There were bottles flying everywhere," she told the BBC. "They broke [the ballot box]. They stole the phones of the officials. Now we can't vote."



In some areas, voting did not begin until around 18:00 local time - three-and-a-half hours after polls were due to close.



First-time voter Susan Ekpoh told the BBC that she spent 13 hours at her polling station in the capital, Abuja, only leaving at midnight.



She said when it got dark, election officials said they needed light to see what they were doing, so she and others used their car headlights to illuminate proceedings.



The southern Bayelsa state was among those areas where voting was delayed until Sunday - it is not clear how many parts of the country saw voting postponed.

Source: BBC









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The Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has bemoaned bellicosity with which some traditional leaders in Kumasi are forcefully snatching lands from its owners over expired lease with impunity.



Addressing the Kumasi Traditional Council (KTC) at a meeting in Manhyia Palace Kumasi, Otumfuo warned Kumasi traditional leaders to stop cheating Kumasi residents with their authority.



Im being accused wrongly for your unlawful activities in the region. You people are disgracing me, you all need to be careful with the things you are doing he warned.



The Asante monarch issued this warning in Manhyia Palace on Thursday 23rd February 2023 when he restored a land a couple acquired in 1942 and forceful seized from them by Amakomhene Nana Adu Mensah Asare and sold to the Church of Pentecost for a Church project over an expired lease.



The angry Asantehene who spoke through his linguist Baffour Kentenkrankyi condemned Amakomhene and his sub-Chief Abontenghene and warn his Abontenghene who has been challenging his authority on land issues to be careful else he will be summoned to the palace to come and explain his authority over lands issue in their traditional area.



When you ascended to the Amakom stool the old woman was living on the land since 1942 so even if the lease has expired there is a clear law for lease renewal. There was Amakomhene before you. So you are the only wise person to eject the old woman. Dont you feel worried for this old woman you treated this way. What money are you looking for and disregarding traditional rules on lease management?  Otumfuo questioned.



He added this old woman was going to die in tears if this issue had not come to my attention and my name will not depart from her tears because Amakomhene is my Obrempong therefore, directly my name will be attached to the illegality. You have land because I allow you to swear the Asante oath before me. Thats why you are engaging in illegalities right ? .



Otumfuo further explained there are clear legal and traditional arrangements for restoring expired leases; you dont just eject people from their property immediately you hear their lease has expired. You divide the said land into three, one is given to Asantehene, the woman takes one and Amakom stool also takes one. Why must you forcefully take all. where from the intimidation? I have not given any land to your Abontensohene so I will not take any explaination on that because I dont know him nor have I created any stool for him. Where from this nonsense? Asantehene fumed.



Otumfuo Further directed his anger to Nana Apagyahene, Nana Owusu Afriyie IV whom he describe as Pagyaso moamoaso if you cannot do the lands job just tell me. Why must issue come to me for redress while you are there? That is you job no chief can claim any land or property from it owner when the lease expires because there are clear rules on that. The woman came to you and you said Nana Amakomhene has said no to the formal arrangement and you also didnt tell me so what are you there for? You are doing your own thing. Amakomhene is also doing his own thing. Who should I trust now? 



While addressing the traditional leaders on lease issues, Otumfuo disclosed he is losing trust among the traditional leaders in Kumasi over how they are managing affairs without his direct involvement.



You are making me lose my trust among you all. I have been talking about lease issues for the past 24 years but you dont listen. Your illegal activities are disgrace to respected Chieftaincy and me as the Asantehene.



Otumfuo in his final ruling directed Nana Apagyahene to send surveyors to the land and divide the said land into three one should be given to Amakomhene Nana Adu Mensah Asare, the remaining two including his(Asantehene) share should be given back to the woman for peace to prevail.

Source: Ghanaweb









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The countrys cocoa industry is facing one of its biggest threats ever as illegal gold miners continue a major onslaught on cocoa farms, including those recently rehabilitated under a national programme.



The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) had warned that the industry could head for a disaster if the illegal activities were not checked.



Raising the alarm, the Executive Director of Cocoa Health and Extension Services, Rev. Edwin Afari, said the National Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme being undertaken by COCOBOD at a cost of about GH4.8 billion was under severe threat from illegal mining (gamalsey) activities.



Recently, I was around the Boinso area in the Aowin municipality of the Western Region and for about 36.5 hectares that we did, they have cut down all of them for galamsey, he told journalists in Cape Coast last Friday on the margins of a ceremony to award 15 visually impaired cocoa farmers from the Central, Western and Brong Ahafo cocoa regions for their immense contribution to cocoa production.



He said the situation had gone from bad to worse over the past 10 years, and consequently, appealed to the Minerals Commission to refrain from giving mining concessions to miners in cocoa growing areas, while urging all stakeholders to help curb the negative impact of galamsey on cocoa production in the country.



Rev. Afari stated that illegal mining activities were alarming in the Western South cocoa region, including the Wassa Akropong corridor, and parts of the Ashanti Region including Manso Adubia, Antoakrom, and Anyinam in the Eastern Region where a lot of hectares of juvenile cocoa farms had been destroyed.



Rehabilitation programme



On September 24, 2020, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo launched the National Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme at Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region, with the objective of rehabilitating farms affected by the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) which had become unproductive.



The programme, which had earlier been successfully piloted in some of the worst CSSVD-affected cocoa growing areas had since been expanded to all other cocoa growing regions.



Under the programme, COCOBOD bears the full cost of the two-year-long rehabilitation process which involves the cutting of the diseased trees, treating the farms and replanting with disease-tolerant, early bearing, high-yielding cocoa varieties.



In addition, COCOBOD gives GH1,000.00 per hectare to each farmer whose farm is affected by the disease, while in the case of tenancy, both the affected tenant farmers and their landowners are compensated.



Maiden awards



The awards ceremony, the first of its kind, was organised by COCOBOD with support from the Agricultural Manufacturing Group Limited (AMG Ghana) and Mondelez Cocoalife International, all companies operating in the cocoa value chain.



Aged between 50 and 78 years, the farmers have been working for 15 to 60 years, with seven of them still active.



Each of them received six bags of fertiliser, two pairs of Wellington boots, two machetes, chocolates and other cocoa products, and an undisclosed amount.



One of the awardees, Kofi Esuon, was however honoured posthumously.



Efforts hampered



Rev. Afari said the project to rehabilitate swollen shoot-affected cocoa farms and moribund cocoa farms were being derailed by galamsey activities.



We havent even accounted for the harvesting that will be coming. It is just the investment; the compensation that we give to the landowners and farmers; planting of plantain suckers, cocoa trees, extension services, among others, he further stated, adding all the work we have done in there has gone to waste.



Dramatic change

On a larger scale, Rev. Afari indicated that many forest areas where cocoa was grown had been taken over by illegal mining activities.



He stated that apart from the rehabilitated farms, illegal miners were buying out huge tracts of land meant for cocoa farming for illegal mining.



Even if you dont sell your farm to them, they dig around it, preventing you from accessing the farm, he stated.



Stringent measures needed



He said if stringent measures were not taken to reverse the situation, national cocoa volumes produced could be significantly affected.



When we lose several hectares of cocoa we have planted, Ghana is going to suffer, he stated.



He indicated that another area of concern was the ageing cocoa farmer population, which according to surveys in the seven cocoa producing regions, averagely hovered around 55 years.



That, he noted, did not augur well for the sustainability of cocoa production.



Rev. Afari encouraged other professionals to enter into cocoa farming, saying whether you are a doctor, engineer, nurse, development expert, you can venture into cocoa farming.



Production

Touching on production figures, he said: We did 1.47 million tonnes last two years but last year was not good because of the weather and so we came down to about 683,000 tonnes.



This year, he said COCOBOD was targeting 850,000 tonnes and, hopefully, move on to a million or more next year.



Rev. Afari called on other stakeholders including farmers, chiefs and the media to support efforts at promoting the economic value of the farms, which had more lasting economic value than selling the land to illegal miners.



Disadvantaged farmers

Rev. Afari said the award initiative was to appreciate disadvantaged cocoa farmers for their continuous contributions to the cocoa industry and to encourage them to give of their best.



He commended the awardees for their strength of mind and resilience in the face of challenges and for contributing their quota to national development.



If you work diligently with your heart and mind, that is a special kind of sight, he stated.



The executive director indicated that this year, COCOBOD would focus on cocoa pruning, undertake pollination and pest control exercises to help increase the countrys production.



Increase production



The Director, Agronomy at COCOBOD, Samuel Asare Ankamah, stated that the awards would ultimately encourage the increase in productivity.



The Central Regional Chief Farmer, Nana Kwesi Ofori, who chaired the function, said the perseverance and commitment of the visually impaired farmers in the face of adversity was commendable and urged other farmers to take inspiration from their work to do more.



He expressed the hope that the initiative would not be a nine-day wonder but would be sustained to encourage even more farmers with disabilities to produce more.







Source: graphic.com.gh









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The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, has reiterated that forest reserves remain no-mining zones as part of efforts to curb illegal mining, except in some exceptional situations.



To this end, he said, the government has ceased issuing reconnaissance, prospecting and/or exploration licences in forest reserves, unless under exceptional circumstances.



Additionally, river-bodies  most of which have their sources in forest reserves, he added  have also been declared as red zones for mining.



He meanwhile revealed that a total of six forest entry permits have been issued for mining in Forest Reserves. They include CIMAF Ghana Limited, granted in 2018 and expired in 2021 and is no longer in force; and Chirano Gold Mines Limited renewed in 2019 after the existing permit granted in 2004 expired in 2019.



The rest are Kingsperp Mining Ltd.  granted in 2020; Koantwi Mining Co. Ltd.  granted in 2020; Onex International Co. Ltd.  granted in 2020; and Trans-Atlantic Logistics Ltd.  granted in 2020.



Of the six permits, he said, only Chirano Gold Mines and Koantwi Mining are in mining operations, with the others still working on other permits and/or authorisations required to commence their operations.



The minister was speaking on the state of the countrys forest reserves in parliament, and maintained that the ecological integrity of Ghanas forest reserves has largely been maintained  despite several threats which impact negatively on the all-important resources.



Apart from mining, some of these threats include bushfires, illegal mining and logging, agricultural expansion and settlement, among others, he said.



Furthermore, he noted that the Forestry Commission has put in place several measures to protect forest reserves from various drivers of deforestation and forest degradation. These include regular patrolling of the forest reserves, protection and maintenance of internal and external boundaries, awareness-creation and stakeholder sensitisation, and decommissioning and demobilisation of equipment used for improprieties, among others.



Also, the minister said tree-planting exercises are being carried out to restore portions of forest reserves that have been affected by these drivers of deforestation  through initiatives such as the Green Ghana Project, Youth in Afforestation/Reforestation Project and the Modified Taungya System.



Illegal mining



He said government continues working toward curbing illegal mining in the country, with persons arrested in forest reserves currently standing trial.



These measures, together with several others being taken by government against illegal mining, according to Mr. Jinapor are yielding good results, with some improvement in the quality of rivers and other water-bodies.



Protection of public lands



Mr. Jinapor disclosed that the ministry is working in collaboration with the Lands Commission to undertake an inventory of public lands, including those that have been encroached upon, to ensure their maximum protection.



He asserted that Section 236 of the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036) enjoins the Lands Commission or any agency for whose benefit land has been acquired, to take the necessary steps to recover the land from encroachment. This includes using reasonable force to eject encroachers from the land and demolishing structures on such lands.



To this end, he said, the ministry has constituted a public lands protection team to support the Lands Commission and Ghana Police Service in their efforts toward the protection of public lands.

Source: B&FT









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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President Akufo-Addo has described the late overlord of Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Sulemana Tuntumba Boresa Essa I as the founder of the Savannah Region who has been a blessing during his presidency.



In a tribute during the 7th-day adua (prayers) of the later Overlord in Damongo in the Savannah Region, the President said he will remember his role as a member of the three eminent chiefs in resolving the Dagbon Chieftaincy brouhaha.



He said one can not touch on the creation of the Savannah Region without mentioning the late Yagbonwura Asulemana Tuntumba Bore Essa I because he gave birth to everything leading to its current state.



There are two things that will always stick in my mind when I come to think of him. First, the contribution he made as one of the three eminent chiefs in the resolution of the Dagbon crisis.



It was a blessing for me when I became President to have these eminent chiefs in place to help in the governance of our country. And the history of our country will never forget his contributions and participation in that successful enterprise, he stated.



And the second was (contribution to development) the role he played leading to the demand for the creation of Savannah Region. It was his insistence we had the referendum and allowed the people of Savannah to express their preference of choice and ultimately, made it possible for me to sign a Constitutional Instrument that created the Savannah Region. He will always be the founder of Savannah Region, the President indicated.



Yagbonwura Bore Essa died on Sunday, February 5, 2023, at Damongo in the Savannah Region. The President donated GH100,000, 20 bags of rice, and a bull towards the funeral.



On his part, the Savannah Regional Minister, Saeed Jibril Muhazu, assured the seat of government and Ghanaians of a trouble-free and peaceful transition for the successor to the skin, " because we will there be peace before and after the entire process", the Minister insisted.



According to the Gonja Traditional Council sources, the late Kings successor will perform all traditional rites in the coming weeks to prepare for his enskinment in Damongo.



Present at the Jakpa Palace were representatives of traditional rulers, thus Dagbon, Ashanti Moi, Wa and politicians from across all the political divides and security personnel.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Some disgruntled officers of the Ghana Police Service have petitioned the Police Council chaired by Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia over their promotions.



The officers filed their petition through lawyer Joseph Ayikoi Otoo stating that despite being granted study leave for higher academic qualifications, according to the Policy Guidelines of the Service, attendant promotions have stagnated.



The petitioners claim several attempts to have their concerns addressed through petitions sent to the Inspector General of Police, Dr George Akuffo Dampare, haven't received the desired attention.



The IGP recently speaking at a durbar with police officers in the Bono Region, noted that the police administration under his watch has been committed to rewarding hard work, performance and dedication.



According to him, his administration is ensuring that officers are promoted on merit and not necessarily on academic achievements.



For this whole idea that we are the people who know our rights and that, why is this person promoted and not promoted while the laws are there? It means you dont read  go and read your CI.



What you should know is that something that has never happened before has happened on our watch and that type of promotion that is done probably to some few people at headquarters and others, we changed it the Commanders they know the people who are killing themselves for this job, identify them as long as they are two years in their rank, we will promote them, the IGP said.



But laywer Ayikoi Otoo in his petition to the Police Council said despite the existence of Regulation 37(7) of C.I. 76 all officers on Study Leave With Pay who graduate are by reason of having obtained higher academic qualifications given Academic Promotions with an entry into the Police College.



Read the full petition below:



The Chairman,

Police Service Council,

Accra.

PETITION FOR REDRESS



THE HUMBLE PETITION which I present on behalf of your Petitioners SHOWETH;

1.THAT all your Petitioners whose names are captured in the attached list are Police Officers and serving in various capacities in the Ghana Police Service throughout Ghana.



2.That it is common knowledge that the Police Service has Policy Guidelines amongst which is a provision for grant of Study Leave with pay to deserving officers who apply to enable them to improve their academic capabilities and competencies by acquiring higher academic qualifications.



3.All Your Petitioners applied for the 2017/2018 Academic Year Study Leave with Pay programme for Tertiary Courses ranging between two(2) to four (4) years.They qualified and were made to enter into a Bond to serve the Police Service upon completion of their various courses for at least Five (5) years.



4.Each and every Petitioner entered into the requisite Bond upon condition that the Bond would be estreated when breached.



5.Your Petitioners were then granted the Study Leave with Pay upon a further conditions that during periods of vacation they will return to perform their duties but disqualified from writing any promotion examination during the period in School as well as from enjoying any increment in their salaries.



6.Your Petitioners were also reminded of Regulation 37(7) of the Police Service Regulations C.I.76 which in any case has routinely appeared in all Letters approving Study Leave with Pay as a policy save that it has by the time the approval was granted them become a regulation.



7.Upon successful completion of their studies,Your Petitioners were awarded Degrees and other Professional qualifications as appropriate.



8.Your Petitioners in accordance with laid down procedures, wrote to the Police Service Administration and attached their Certificates and applied for upgrade which is understood to mean Academic Promotions individually, but in response they were all congratulated on their achievements but the Administration remained silent on their promotions except that those qualified for administrative promotions got them not academic promotions.



9.In the absence of any other explanation from the Police Administration for the delay in a response to their Applications for Upgrade,Your Petitioners decided to come together as a group describing themselves as Personnel On Study Leave With Payand sent a Petition dated 6th September 2021 in substance appealing to the Police Administration through the current IGP then in an Ag capacity to have a second look at Regulation 37(7) of C.I. 76, its interpretation,implementation and effects in the Service ,BELIEVING THAT MIGHT BE THE STUMBLING BLOCK.



10.When they did not hear from the Police Administration, they sent a reminder and then In December 2021,Your Petitioners received a response to their Petition which only directed that they should channel their Petition through their respective chain of command as required by Service Instructions (S.I.)45.



11.On the face of the response which was terse,it did not reject the Application for Upgradebut the attitude of the Police Administration of asking each Applicant to apply individually through their respective chain of command,when they have a common concern,conveyed to them an unwillingness on the part of the Administration to address their Academic Promotions issue and it is against that background that they have approached me to send this Petition on their behalf.



12. From the mass of evidence before me,it cannot be denied neither can it be concealed that what appears as Regulation 37(7) of C.I. 76 is not a new provision but a Policy the Administration has been familiar with for several years as part of Policy Guidelines on Study Leave with Pay.All successful Applicants in the past have been reminded of that Policy.



13.Be that as it may,Your Petitioners say that inspite of the existence of that policy, all officers on Study Leave With Pay who graduate are by reason of having obtained higher academic qualification given Academic Promotions with an entry into the Police College.



14.I wish to submit on behalf of your Petitioners that looking at regulation 37(7) of C.I.76,it vests the Police Administration with a discretion just as when it was contained in the Policy Guidelines and requires a broad liberal and purposive interpretation so as to take into consideration the history of the provision and the goal of the Police Administration in awarding Study Leave with Pay to successful candidates for the benefit of the Service.



15.Your Petitioners recall that in the Study Leave For 2011/2012 Academic Year Approval Circular with reference No SO/G 4/33C/V 5/243 dated 19th December,2011, Police Administration added the following;However the Administration wishes to announce further,the temporary suspension of provisions of the Policy Guidelines onAcademic Achievements while on the Joband that certificates acquired from the courses pursue(sic)

MAY NOT NECESSARILY ATTRACT PROMOTIONS.



16.Notwithstanding the Suspension of Academic Achievementsas stated supra, the available evidence shows that all graduates of the 2011/2012 Academic Year were promoted and sent to Police College.



17.It ought to be stressed on behalf of Petitioners that a promotion is a right that a worker earns from an employer and it is usually provided for in Conditions of Service or Senior Service Regulations.Conditions for promotions in the Police Service are provided for under Regulation 37 of Police Service Regulations C.I.76.



18.In broad terms promotions are made by the Police Appointments and Promotions Board and the Police Council based on recommendations by Assessment Committees. The limited procedure which can be gathered from that Regulation is that Candidates for promotion may be recommended after they have passed a Promotion examination;or having regard to seniority and length of service served,subject to satisfactory performance assessment of good conduct or by special recommendations based upon meritorious acts of bravery or valour in the prevention of crime or outstanding performance of duty or on a recommendation of the Police Appointment and Promotion Advisory Board;

a Senior Officer under whom the officer serves taking into consideration:integrity and good conduct;efficiency,

attitude towards work and sense of responsibility;

experience and capacity for cooperation with other officers;ability to offer leadership;seniority and whether the officer has served the required number of years in the relevant post; or upon completion of not less than four years satisfactory service subject to availability of vacancy



19.The last criterion is contained in Regulation 37(7) of C.I. 76 which I intend to set out herein in extenso for full effect;

An officer who attains higher academic qualification is not entitled to promotion by reason only of that academic qualification.



20.A literal interpretation of the sub regulation in my opinion means that though a criterion of promotion in the Police Service is by attainment of higher academic qualification while on the job, the the Police Appointments and Appointments Board and the Police Council can take other factors into consideration apart from the academic qualification.



21.It is submitted on behalf of the Your Petitioners that the sub regulation under reference ie 37(7) vests the Police Administration with discretion to use higher academic qualification in addition to other criteria for promotion.This is because if the draftsman intended to absolutely prohibit that mode of promotion,he would not have lacked the language to use such as the mandatory shall instead the verb is.



22.Thus by choosing the verb is coupled with the phrase

by reason only the interpretation will be that attainment of higher academic qualification is very much a factor for promotion which the Police Service Promotions and Appointments Board and Police Council can take into consideration for purposes of promotion albeit not the only criterion.



23.It follows therefore that the onus is on the Police Service Appointments and Promotions Board and the Police Council to demonstrate to the Petitioners that though they have met the criterion of achieving higher academic qualification,for some other reason/s they do not qualify to be promoted which can happen only when they receive responses to their requests for academic promotions.



24.Inspite of the fact that they are yet to receive any official responses the Petitioners have no reason to doubt that they are all qualified for promotion even if other criteria are taken into consideration and are therefore at a complete loss at the treatment being meted out to them by the Police Administration.



25.Thus Your Petitioners can say with all the emphasis at their command that it has never happened that graduates who enjoyed Study Leave with Pay were denied opportunity of academic promotions.That being the case it can be deduced that the Police Administration has acquiesced and had allowed all graduates to proceed to the Police College in accordance with exercise of their discretion.



26.It was that conduct on the part of the Police Administration which led Your Petitioners to also have a legitimate reasonable expectations that having successfully graduated they will benefit from academic promotions, which unfortunately has proven elusive so far.



27.Thus to deny Your Petitioners the opportunity now will smack of arbitrariness,

capriciousness or bias either by resentment,prejudice or

personal dislike towards Your Petitioners.



28.Happily the Police Administration has not responded to say Your Petitioners have been denied academic promotions due to Regulation 37(7) of C.I.76.

Further, the Guidelines for Promotions expected to be published in the Service Instructions(S.I.) provided for under Regulation 37(8) to regulate promotions in the Police Service have not yet been published and therefore it appears the doors are not shut against Your Petitioners.



29.In the circumstances,I hereby present this Petition on behalf of Your Petitioners humbly praying that the Police Administration opens the doors to Your Petitioners to enable them enjoy the fruits of their labour by allowing them to enter the Police College.

RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED.



Hon J. Ayikoi Otoo

For and on behalf of

PETITIONERS



Cc

The Petitioners













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The countrys cocoa industry is facing one of its biggest threats ever as illegal gold miners continue a major onslaught on cocoa farms, including those recently rehabilitated under a national programme.



The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) had warned that the industry could head for a disaster if the illegal activities were not checked.



Raising the alarm, the Executive Director of Cocoa Health and Extension Services, Rev. Edwin Afari, said the National Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme being undertaken by COCOBOD at a cost of about GH4.8 billion was under severe threat from illegal mining (gamalsey) activities.



Recently, I was around the Boinso area in the Aowin municipality of the Western Region and for about 36.5 hectares that we did, they have cut down all of them for galamsey, he told journalists in Cape Coast last Friday on the margins of a ceremony to award 15 visually impaired cocoa farmers from the Central, Western and Brong Ahafo cocoa regions for their immense contribution to cocoa production.



He said the situation had gone from bad to worse over the past 10 years, and consequently, appealed to the Minerals Commission to refrain from giving mining concessions to miners in cocoa growing areas, while urging all stakeholders to help curb the negative impact of galamsey on cocoa production in the country.



Rev. Afari stated that illegal mining activities were alarming in the Western South cocoa region, including the Wassa Akropong corridor, and parts of the Ashanti Region including Manso Adubia, Antoakrom, and Anyinam in the Eastern Region where a lot of hectares of juvenile cocoa farms had been destroyed.



Rehabilitation programme

On September 24, 2020, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo launched the National Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme at Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region, with the objective of rehabilitating farms affected by the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) which had become unproductive.



The programme, which had earlier been successfully piloted in some of the worst CSSVD-affected cocoa growing areas had since been expanded to all other cocoa growing regions.



Under the programme, COCOBOD bears the full cost of the two-year-long rehabilitation process which involves the cutting of the diseased trees, treating the farms and replanting with disease-tolerant, early bearing, high-yielding cocoa varieties.



In addition, COCOBOD gives GH1,000.00 per hectare to each farmer whose farm is affected by the disease, while in the case of tenancy, both the affected tenant farmers and their landowners are compensated.



Maiden awards

The awards ceremony, the first of its kind, was organised by COCOBOD with support from the Agricultural Manufacturing Group Limited (AMG Ghana) and Mondelez Cocoalife International, all companies operating in the cocoa value chain.



Aged between 50 and 78 years, the farmers have been working for 15 to 60 years, with seven of them still active.



Each of them received six bags of fertiliser, two pairs of Wellington boots, two machetes, chocolates and other cocoa products, and an undisclosed amount.



One of the awardees, Kofi Esuon, was however honoured posthumously.



Efforts hampered

Rev. Afari said the project to rehabilitate swollen shoot-affected cocoa farms and moribund cocoa farms were being derailed by galamsey activities.



We havent even accounted for the harvesting that will be coming. It is just the investment; the compensation that we give to the landowners and farmers; planting of plantain suckers, cocoa trees, extension services, among others, he further stated, adding all the work we have done in there has gone to waste.



Dramatic change

On a larger scale, Rev. Afari indicated that many forest areas where cocoa was grown had been taken over by illegal mining activities.



He stated that apart from the rehabilitated farms, illegal miners were buying out huge tracts of land meant for cocoa farming for illegal mining.



Even if you dont sell your farm to them, they dig around it, preventing you from accessing the farm, he stated.



Stringent measures needed

He said if stringent measures were not taken to reverse the situation, national cocoa volumes produced could be significantly affected.



When we lose several hectares of cocoa we have planted, Ghana is going to suffer, he stated.



He indicated that another area of concern was the ageing cocoa farmer population, which according to surveys in the seven cocoa producing regions, averagely hovered around 55 years.



That, he noted, did not augur well for the sustainability of cocoa production.



Rev. Afari encouraged other professionals to enter into cocoa farming, saying whether you are a doctor, engineer, nurse, development expert, you can venture into cocoa farming.



Production

Touching on production figures, he said: We did 1.47 million tonnes last two years but last year was not good because of the weather and so we came down to about 683,000 tonnes.



This year, he said COCOBOD was targeting 850,000 tonnes and, hopefully, move on to a million or more next year.



Rev. Afari called on other stakeholders including farmers, chiefs and the media to support efforts at promoting the economic value of the farms, which had more lasting economic value than selling the land to illegal miners.



Disadvantaged farmers

Rev. Afari said the award initiative was to appreciate disadvantaged cocoa farmers for their continuous contributions to the cocoa industry and to encourage them to give of their best.



He commended the awardees for their strength of mind and resilience in the face of challenges and for contributing their quota to national development.



If you work diligently with your heart and mind, that is a special kind of sight, he stated.



The executive director indicated that this year, COCOBOD would focus on cocoa pruning, undertake pollination and pest control exercises to help increase the countrys production.



Increase production

The Director, Agronomy at COCOBOD, Samuel Asare Ankamah, stated that the awards would ultimately encourage the increase in productivity.



The Central Regional Chief Farmer, Nana Kwesi Ofori, who chaired the function, said the perseverance and commitment of the visually impaired farmers in the face of adversity was commendable and urged other farmers to take inspiration from their works to do more.



He expressed the hope that the initiative would not be a nine-day wonder but would be sustained to encourage even more farmers with disabilities to produce more.



Gratitude

Kwesi Adu, who spoke on behalf of the awardees, thanked COCOBOD for the gesture.



Another awardee, Vida Boakye, called for subsidised inputs to help them increase production.

Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The President of the Presbyterian University, Ghana (PUG) Prof. Ebenezer Oduro Owusu has stated that currently the only possible solution to change the fortunes of this country is honest leaders with the character of discipline.



According to Prof. Ebenezer Oduro Owusu, the future of the country rely heavily on the kind of graduates being produced by the universities and other tertiary institutions on the various campuses , therefore the need to instill in them the act of discipline and honesty to prepare a future generation and leadership with good integrity.



He said "our major problem in this country is about leadership, and you can't talk about good leadership without talking about integrity , discipline , if we are able to train more students to be discipline and honest then most of our problems as a country will be solved , in Presbyterian University, Ghana we want them to build that character because no matter how intelligent you are without a good character you can't go far and it is difficult to progress in life".



"The Presbyterian University, Ghana stands for discipline , which stems from the "Holistic Education" we offer, our motto is discipline in leadership , we believe discipline is an important value to every human society since it engenders the ability to choose and do what is right at all time"



"A discipline individual is able to manage emotions , preserve against all odds and is selfless, truthful , hard-working and motivated"



He also charged universities to churn out graduates who are discipline and will impact the country positively and not necessarily awarding certificates to students due to their income driven objective.



Prof. Ebenezer Oduro Owusu said this in an interview at the time the Presbyterian University, Ghana held it 20th Undergraduate Matriculation Ceremony for the Akuapem-Tema Campuses in Akropong in the Eastern region.



He revealed that , this year the Presbyterian University, Ghana is matriculating a total of 915 applicants in three sections comprising 331 Males and 584 Females.



The matriculation ceremony held in Akuapem-Tema campuses ushered in 26 applicants under Faculty of Development Studies, 11 under Faculty of Education and 44 applicants under School of Business and Economics given a total of 81 matriculants.



The President further expressed worried about the mass production of students in some public universities accounting to the over burden on hostel and lecture facilities saying it affect the quality of education.



He however called on the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) to intervene and outline the necessary regulations on the number of students universities should admit base on the facilities available for them.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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As the world continues to evolve and digital advancements shape the way we live, work, and learn, the demand for digital skills and competencies grows ever stronger.



The global economy is rapidly shifting towards a digital-based model, and this trend is reflected in Africa, where the mobile and Internet industries are driving socio-economic growth and development.



However, despite this progress, the digital divide remains a significant challenge in many African countries, including Ghana. A survey conducted by the Ghana Statistical Service in 2016 revealed that a mere 8.6% of Ghanaian households had access to the Internet. This highlights the need for greater investment in digital connectivity and access in Ghana.



Moreover, a report by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) highlights that there is a significant gap in supply and demand across all skill levels in Sub-Saharan Africa. This digital skills gap presents a major obstacle to realizing the full potential of Africa's rapidly growing digital industries and underscores the importance of prioritizing and investing in digital literacy and technology education across the continent.

It is imperative that Ghana, along with other African countries, takes proactive steps to close the digital skills gap and prepare its workforce for the jobs of the future.



Creating a digital classroom



To address the digital skills gap in Ghana, it's crucial for the country to prioritize and invest in digital literacy and technology education. By doing so, individuals in Ghana will be better equipped to take advantage of the growing number of job opportunities in the digital sector and be prepared for the future workforce.



Vodafone Ghana is taking a leading role in transforming digital education in the country by partnering with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to open a digital learning centre on campus. The centre is designed to provide remote education to students and is equipped with state-of-the-art digital tools and technology. The project, which is part of Vodafone Ghana's Connected Education service, is aimed at contributing to the education of the youth and the future of Ghana.



The Connected Education service offered by Vodafone Ghana includes a range of mobile services that allow students and school administrators to work together efficiently. The services include discounted mobile data, free calls, access to online resources, and wide-area network solutions with dedicated internet. Vodafone Ghana is also providing managed Wi-Fi and unified communication services and enabling a cashless campus through Vodafone Cash.



Upskilling teachers



Soon, Vodafone Ghana aims to empower teachers through its Connected Education service by providing them with the necessary tools and resources to integrate digital learning into their lessons. The company realizes the crucial role teachers play in the education system and seeks to support their efforts by offering training services that cater to their unique needs and help them design effective hybrid lessons.



Vodafone Ghana recognizes the importance of addressing the digital skills gap, as research shows that a significant percentage of teachers lack experience and formal training in using technology in the classroom. The company believes that its Connected Education service will serve as a solution that not only provides access to digital learning tools, but also supports the upskilling of teachers.



Improving access to technology



Vodafone Ghana is committed to providing access to high-quality education and empowering students and teachers through technology. To further this mission, the company has partnered with the Ministry of Education and other local educational institutions to launch Instant Schools, the largest philanthropic program in the Vodafone Group Foundation's 25-year history.



Instant Schools provides free access to online learning materials for millions of young people in Africa, including subjects such as Math and Science from primary to secondary level. The educational content is a combination of high-quality global and local content, initially provided by Khan Academy, with the aim of aligning it with the local curriculum in the future.



The service is designed for simple, low-cost devices with basic data connectivity (3G) and is zero-rated for Vodafone Ghana subscribers, meaning users will not be charged for data usage within Ghana when accessing the content through the company's mobile data network. However, data charges will apply if the service is accessed outside the country.



As a long-term cumulative program, Vodafone Ghana aims to increase the reach, scale, and relevance of Instant Schools over time, including encouraging other major mobile operators in the country to adopt a similar approach. This initiative underscores Vodafone's dedication to using technology to build more inclusive and resilient societies, ensuring that every generation can participate in the digital economy of the future.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former President John Mahama has launched fresh attacks on Ghanas Electoral Commission chaired by Jean Mensa accusing the Electoral body of not inspiring confidence.



According to the former President, who is lacing his boots to contest a presidential position of the NDC for the third time, the Electoral Commission is doing the bid of the ruling New Patriotic Party.



He emphatically stated that The hostility of the Chairperson of the EC and her other Commissioners to one political party is legendary.



Interestingly, Mr. Mahama whose party (NDC) has on several occasions boycotted IPAC meetings stated that Regrettably, I am not hopeful this will happen when we have an EC that has blatantly spurned all efforts by the National Peace Council to host a meeting between the Commission and the two major political parties, the NDC and NPP.



Mr. Mahama, who is currently in Nigeria leading the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) to monitor the ongoing elections made these claims in a post on his Facebook page about Nigerias elections.



He pointed out that his preliminary engagements with the presidential hopefuls indicated that they all have confidence in the Electoral Commissioner of that country but the same cannot be said about Ghanas Electoral Commission.



He claimed One thing that has struck me in my pre-election mission in Nigeria for the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) is the confidence all the candidates and parties have expressed in the Independent Electoral Commission. They all testify that INEC has listened and taken their concerns on board.



According to him, the INECs openness and ability to bring all the candidates on board but said it is unfortunate that I cant say the same for my Electoral Commission (EC), which was once among the best election management agencies in the world.



Mr. Mahama further intimated that he wished Ghanas EC can inspire the same level of confidence in all its stakeholders.



Below is the full statement on Facebook:



One thing that has struck me in my pre-election mission in Nigeria for the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) is the confidence all the candidates and parties have expressed in the Independent Electoral Commission.



They all testify that INEC has listened and taken their concerns on board.



Unfortunately, I cant say the same for my Electoral Commission (EC), which was once among the best election management agencies in the world.



The hostility of the Chairperson of the EC and her other Commissioners to one political party is legendary.



How I wish our own EC can inspire the same level of confidence in all its stakeholders.



Regrettably, I am not hopeful this will happen when we have an EC that has blatantly spurned all efforts by the National Peace Council to host a meeting between the Commission and the two major political parties, the NDC and NPP.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









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The National Womens Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Hanna Bisiw, has gone berserk over the democratic rights of Gloria Huze, the Ashanti Regional Womens Organiser of the party.



She is peeved over the decision of Ms Huze to pick up nomination forms for Dr. Kwabena Duffuor to contest the presidential primary of the party.



According to her, the Ashanti Regional Womens Organiser shouldnt have picked the presidential nomination forms in the name of the partys Region Womens wing.



In a statement Louis a Bissiw said that the action taken by the Ashanti Regional Womens Organiser, Gloria Huze, was totally intolerable.



She continued that no executive of the party can use the wing of the party for their personal businesses.



My attention has been drawn to a deplorable and unacceptable action by the Ashanti Regional Womens Organiser, Gloria Huze, in the upcoming Flagbearer race.



She is on record to have led a delegation to pick up the nomination forms for a Presidential Candidate Aspirant in the name of the Ashanti Regional Womens Wing.



I vehemently and categorically disassociate the wing from her conduct and wish to state emphatically that her conduct is not in any way a representation of any parts of the wing either in the Ashanti Region or across the other 15 regions in the country, parts of the statement read.



The National Womens Organiser added that the disciplinary committee of the NDCs womens wing has been notified about Gloria Huzes action and will take the necessary steps to bring her to book.



Gloria Huze, together with some staff of NDC presidential hopeful, Dr Kwabena Duffuor, picked his nomination for the partys presidential primaries, which is scheduled for May 2023, on Thursday at the partys headquarters in Accra.







Source: Daily Guide









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View this post on Instagram A post shared by   (@utvghana)





Odianosen Okojie, husband of famous Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson, has won the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the 2023 elections in Esan North East/ South East federal constituency of Edo State.



Mr Okojie won the primary held in Ubiaja, Esan South East LGA., Edo State on Saturday.



The 48-year-old politician picked the declaration form expression of Interest and Nomination Form to run for the office of Federal House of Representatives, Esan North East/Esan South East Federal Constituency, in April 2022.



In December 2017, Mr Okojie and several PDP supporters defected to APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).



The hotelier turned politician is a descendant of the Okojie royal family in Uromi Esan, North-East native authority.



He is from the lineage of Ogbidi Okojie, Onojie (king) of Uromi, who was a ruler of the Esan people and is renowned for his opposition to British rule.



Appreciation

Mr Okojie appreciated God for the win and his wifes love and support in an Instagram post on Saturday.



He also shared his manifesto on his official Instagram account.



He wrote, Incoming days, my team and I shall be embarking vigorously on more tours throughout all the wards of our constituency, meeting with stakeholders (both leaders and constituents) to foster and deepen the already harmonious relationship that will bring about the very best ways of meeting the dire needs of the good people of Esan North East and South East constituency.



His wife also celebrated her husbands victory.



Congratulations to @princeodiokojie on this win. You are a good man and a man of the people, she wrote.













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Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.
Two individuals in the National Democratic Congress are eyeing the Ayawaso West Wuogon seat ahead of the partys primaries scheduled for May 13, 2023.



Actor and Politician John Dumelo, and Actor Fred Nuamah are the individuals hoping to beat the other and win the seat on the NDC ticket.



Earlier this month, the seat had only one contestant  Fred Nuamah who is equally a new face in the race.



The actor indicated his intentions to contest in the race for Ayawaso West Wuogon against the New Patriotic Party (NPPs) Lydia Alhassan.



John Dumelo the previous contestant on the NDCs ticket had been eying the SALL seat in the Oti Region until now.



But it appears that the actor has done a u-turn based on advice from his family, and constituents according to him.



John Dumelo tweeted on Sunday, February 26, 2023 that After extensive consultation with my God, my family and our party faithful in Ayawaso West Wuogon. This is the second coming, he said.



Ayawaso West Wuogon is known as a hotspot for parliamentary primaries particularly. It became even more known after some electoral disturbances led to the shooting of some 18 persons in 2019.



Heres a little bit about both celebrities vying for the parliamentary seat in Ayawaso West Wuogon



John Dumelo:



John Dumelo was born on February 3, 1984 in Hohoe in the Volta Region in Ghana. He had his basic education at the Christ the King International School in Accra where his acting career began. He was the character Saka in the movie Baby Thief at 7 years.



His secondary education was at Achimota School and thereafter he starred in his first soap opera, Suncity. After this, he went to KNUST where he completed with a degree in Civil Engineering.



In 2016, the actor turned politician campaigned for the NDC and was appointed by John Mahama to serve as the Director of operations for the Pro NDC youth group.



He contested for the Ayawaso West Wuogon parliamentary seat and won on Augugust 24, 2020 but lost to NPPs Lydia Alhassan on December 7, 2020.

Dumelo is also a farmer and businessman.



He is married to UK-based lawyer  Gifty Mawunya Dumelo.



Fred Nuamah:



Fred Nuamah was born in Accra but hails from Ada and Obuasi. His stardom began when he acted in the movie Matters of the heart.



Fred Nuamah started the Ghana Movie Awards and is now the CEO of the award show that recognizes excellence in the Ghanaian film industry.



He was formally married to Martekor Quaye but the couple are currently divorced.



This will be his first time contesting for the seat.



Meanwhile, the NDC has set May 13, 2023, as the date for both its presidential and parliamentary primaries. According to the party, parliamentary candidates will be required to purchase a form for GH5,000 and pay a non-refundable filing fee of GH40,000.



Meanwhile, presidential candidates will be required to purchase a form for GH30,000 and pay a non-refundable filing fee of GH500,000.





Source: ghanaweb.com









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It appears the beef between beleaguered Madam Frances Ewurabena Essiam, ex-Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Cylinder Manufacturing Company Limited (GCMCL) and Energy Minister, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh is far from over, as the former has served notice of her intention to shoot down any future political ambitions of the latter.



To Frances Essiam, the Energy Minister lacks the political correctness to be considered as running mate to Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who in her estimation is the likeliest candidate to represent the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the forthcoming flagbearer contest.



Reacting to her resignation as CEO of GCMCL, she said the role of NAPO as the sector Minister in her resignation makes him unfit to seek a higher office in Ghana, and vowed to lay bare the developments leading to her decision in the coming days for Ghanaians to know who NAPO really is.



"NAPO can never be running mate to Dr. Bawumia and I am going to address these issues at a press conference I will soon organise," she noted.



'Misdirection of Anger'



Madam Frances Awurabena Essiam resigned from her position as the CEO of GCMCL on Thursday, February 23, 2023, and was subsequently replaced by Madam Genevieve Sackey.



She blamed Dr. Opoku Prempeh and the Secretary to the President, Nana Asante Bediatuo for her resignation and vowed to expose them.



But the Ministry mounted a strong defence for the sector Minister, describing Frances Essiam's recent action as misdirection of anger.



Bawumia Deserves Someone Better



Despite her resignation, Frances Essiam said she remains a committed member of the NPP and would campaign vigorously for Dr. Bawumia, saying that the Vice President deserves a better running mate than NAPO.



Watch Video Below





Source: Isaac Kwame Owusu/Peacefmonline/[email protected]









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The NPP Member of Parliament (MP) for Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfrom, Sylvester Tetteh has thrown his weight behind the Electoral Commission over its proposal for a new Constitutional Instrument (C.I.) to replace the existing Instrument (C.I.) in preparation for the election in 2024.



The Electoral Commission has proposed the use of Ghana Cards as the only form of identification and medium to qualify a Ghanaian citizen, who is eligible to vote, to be registered or enrolled onto the voters register.



To Sylvester Tetteh, the use of the Ghana Card will help to avoid irregularities in the register and during the elections, stating it is a perfect form of authentication of a person's identification.



He defended the EC's proposal asserting it will take a person with a clean mind to understand the Commission's purpose to use the Ghana Card as the only form of identification for the 2024 elections.



He asked the opponents of the EC to channel their energy on holding the National Identification Authority (NIA) accountable to printing and distributing the cards for all Ghanaians before the elections.



"If you have a clean mind, then let us hold the NIA accountable [to ensure]. My child is 17 years and before the limited registration will come, she will be 18 years. So, it is incumbent on the NIA to give her a Ghana Card for nothing to be an impediment on her way and that she can register and cast her vote. So, if I have a bone to pick, this piece of legislation is a perfect one," he said while making his submissions on Peace FM's 'kokrokoo' programme.



"If because of the EC, the NIA is able to distribute the cards to everyone...I can tell your driver's licence, the banking sector, taxation, land registration and everything will be captured. We will have a serious society that we can point to data and use it to do other planning for this country," he noted.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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A senior lecturer at the University of Ghana and a leading member of the National Democratic Congress, Dr Michael Kpessa Whyte has declared his intention to contest the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primaries in the ShaiOsudoku constituency.



The former Executive Director, of the National Service Scheme, and ex-presidential staffer for former President John Mahama said his decision to contest came after broader consultation.



According to him, the grassroots in the constituency spoke about broken promises, unmet expectations, disappointments, needless divisions, lack of opportunity for the youth, and lack of obvious purposeful leadership with visibility at the national level.



The aspiring candidate said the constituency has been neglected when it comes to socio-economic development.



He described the constituency as a paradox and has declared to contest to bring to tye people the needed leadership and socio-economic development.



The aspirant is a Research Fellow with the History and Politics Section at the Institute of African Studies (IAS), University of Ghana, Legon, and a political scientist in the tradition of Comparative Public Policy and Political Institutions.



He joined IAS in 2011 from the Jonson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon where he was a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Post-Doctoral Fellow.



In 2012 he was adjudged The Most Promising Young Researcher by the Faculty (now School) of Social Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon.



Between 2013 and early 2017 he served as a Policy Advisor in the Office of the President of the Republic of Ghana with a dual responsibility as the Executive Director of the Ghana National Service Scheme.



Dr Kpessa-Whyte is the author of several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters, and he teaches various undergraduate and graduate courses relating to the study of African politics.



Education

2009 PhD, Political Science (Comparative Public Policy), Department of Political Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada



2005 Master of Arts, Political Science (International Relations), Department of Political Science, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada



2001 Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Department of Political Science, University of Ghana, Legon.

















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As Nigerians await the final results of last Saturdays presidential election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is on top of the troubling issues and is committed to delivering credible results of the polls.



The Commission acknowledged the challenges and confusion that characterised the voting process in some areas, and assured Nigerians and the international community that the issues would be addressed and the results announced will be the true reflection of the will of the people.



At a press briefing at the INEC headquarters in Abuja last Saturday, the Commission chairman, Chief Mahmood Yakubu, apologised for the delays in voting at some areas and explained that it was the first time they were using the electronic system and some of them did not perform optimally.



He said the election day was largely peaceful but there were reports of violence and ballot boxes being snatched by thugs while some voters complained of being attacked and chased away from polling stations.



The INEC Chief also announced that at least in five states, voting in some places did not begin until around 18:00 local time - one-and-a-half hours after polls were due to close, as a result of which voting was extended to ensure that all eligible voters had the chance to exercise their franchise.



Violence

He said there were also reports of tension in parts of Rivers and Lagos states, where some political parties asked their members to go to the centres where votes were being collated over fears that they were being manipulated.



Mr Yakubu said armed men had also attacked some polling units in the southern state of Delta and the northern state of Katsina, where six of the voter-card verification machines were taken away by thugs and the security managed to recover three. he added that efforts were being made to recover the remaining three.



He said two other Biometric Voter Accreditation System machines that were stolen by thugs, together with the three machines, were subsequently replaced and security boosted to allow voting to take place.



In the north-eastern state of Borno, Mr Yakubu said militant Islamists opened fire on electoral officers from a mountain top in the Gwoza area, injuring a number of officials.



Chief Yakubu said there was a clear omission of a candidate on the ballot paper so that election had been reschedule for March 11.



Counting of votes is still underway in the presidential election, widely thought to be the tightest since military rule ended in Africas most populous country in 1999.



Nigerians came out in their numbers to cast their ballots, with many of the youth who were first-time voters being the earliest to arrive at the polling units to cast their ballots.



There were long delays at some polling stations while reports of ballot box snatching and attacks by armed men were rife.



Many voters who had to endure the stress from malfunctioning electronic voting systems accused electoral officials of refusing to upload the results at the polling units as they were supposed to.



However, in areas where voting went smoothly, officials started posting results outside individual polling units, while the results from tens of thousands of polling stations around the country were being collated and sent to the electoral headquarters in the capital Abuja.



He also acknowledged the presence of Ghanas Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, and other electoral commission chairpersons from South Africa, Liberia, Tanzania, Niger, Namibia and Sierra Leone, among others.

Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reacted to the controversy surrounding the just concluded Presidential and National Assembly elections.



In an open letter addressed to President Buhari, Obasanjo said the President has overtime promised to give Nigerians a free and fair election before leaving office and that he shouldn't allow some persons, particularly INEC staff to soil his legacy.



The former President claimed that INEC officials were compromised during the elections as they failed to use the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System BVAS as well as the Server procured for the electronic transmission of election results.



Obasanjo pointed out that even though INEC chairman, Yakubu Mahmood, wants to claim to be ignorant of these fraudulent activities, he should not fold his hands and allow the corrupt actions of some of the commission's staff to go on without correcting them.



He stated that if INEC chairman knows his hands are clean, he should save Nigeria from the looming disaster waiting to happen as a result of the flawed election.



He called on President Buhari to order the cancellation of any result that the credibility is in doubt and order a fresh election in such places where elections were disrupted for next Saturday, March 4th 2023.

Source: Linda Ikeji









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Osebo, a businessman from Ghana The Zaraman holds that deceptive traditions that masquerade as Christian worship have been brainwashed into approval among Christians.



Osebo claims that the bulk of African and Ghanaian Christians have disregarded the true gospel by succumbing to forgers who have abused them for years.



In an interview with blogger Nkonkonsa, Osebo urged Christians to worship God in reality and to unravel the mysteries of their religion, while also calling for a change of heart among some believers.



If apple can cure sicknesses, then there will be no sick person in Italy. People fetch River Jordan and bring it into the country. If it heals sicknesses, people over there wouldnt have been ill. We have been brainwashed into believing certain things. In Africa, Christianity is our first priority. Christianity is not practiced through only preaching. You prove it by your deeds.



Every Saturday, I donate. I dont fast, I dont visit the Atwea Mountains, MOGPA or Achimota Forest to pray. God listens to our prayers no matter the location. The fastest way by which God listens to our prayers is through the act of giving. It is not through cheap talk," he disclosed.



Faith and work complement each other. Paul said it in the bible. What is your faith? Is your faith about storming the church with canes to lash the devil? Is it by stomping your foot in churches disrespectfully whiles requesting things from God? We dont understand Christianity,"he added.



The fashionista who stressed the need of donating to the less fortunate encouraged Christians to focus their energies on doing good deeds rather than blaming the devil for everything that happens.



Watch full interview below:





Source: Eugene Osafo-Nkansah/Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Multi-awarded gospel songstress, Diana Hamilton has successfully ended her annual programme dubbed "Experience With Diana Hamilton".



The two-day event came off in the capital city, Accra, and Kumasi in the Ashanti Region.



On Sunday, February 19 at the Perez Dome, the auditorium was filled to capacity with believers and unbelivers raising their voices and hands to worship their Maker.



The Experience train also landed at the Bantama Church of Pentecost in Kumasi and the ecstatic patrons wiggled themselves in joy to Diana Hamilton's songs.



Indeed, the patrons to this year's event were mightily blessed to be a part of this experience.



Overwhelmed by the love of her fans and music lovers, Diana Hamilton is extending her gratitude to all and sundry who attended this year's programme.



"God showed up last night in Kumasi and Im grateful to Him and the people of Kumasi", she says.

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Yes, jury duty is a legal obligation, and sure, it contributes to the impartiality and overall fairness of the American judicial system, but it's also a genuine pain in the neck.

You miss work. You battle rush-hour traffic to get downtown. You wander cluelessly around the courthouse looking for your room. You wait for what seems like an eternity (two hours). Finally, you're herded into a courtroom to be questioned by bored lawyers and a scary-looking judge. Then you're sent home with a few bucks for your trouble. Or worse, you are selected for a trial that lasts all week!

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There are legitimate reasons to want to avoid jury duty, but we would never encourage you to break the law. Instead, use the law to your advantage.

For example, most states draw prospective jurors from the voter registration rolls and the driver's license database. If your name appears differently on those two lists  Bob instead of Robert, for example, or married name versus maiden name  you might be counted twice. The same thing can happen if your address or birth date are different. Lower your odds of getting picked by updating your records through the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Then there are the exemptions from service. When you receive your jury summons, it will come with a questionnaire to determine your eligibility for service. Medical or physical conditions are certainly grounds for exemption, if accompanied by a doctor's note. You may be also claim a "hardship" exemption if serving on a jury will result in a critical loss of wages, if you're the sole caretaker of a child or other dependent or if you are a full-time student [sources: Superior Court of Fulton County, Pierce County Washington]. Exemptions allowed will depend on the court in question. Many courts also allow you apply for a one-time deferral/schedule change if you had something already planned like a vacation, which would normally not be a reason to get out of jury duty. You can also get out of jury duty, based on age which can range from 65 to 80 years old, depending on your state.

Members of the armed forces on active duty, professional firefighters, police officers and "public officers of federal, state or local governments, who are actively engaged in the performance of public duties" are also exempt from federal jury service. In fact, they can't serve on a federal jury even if they want to [source: U.S. Courts].

What if you can't legally get out of jury service but want to avoid being picked for an actual trial? Homer Simpson has some not-so-sage advice: "Getting out of jury duty is easy. The trick is to say you're prejudiced against all races." While it's true that lawyers or the judge will dismiss a juror who is openly biased against one of the parties in the case, don't pull a Homer. Once you've heard an overview of the case, you can simply claim that you are unable be fair and impartial, and they'll let you go [source: Warner].

What Happens If I Don't Show Up? In some U.S. counties, failure to report for jury duty is epidemic. In Fulton County, where Atlanta is located, the failure rate was 50 percent in 2011 at a time when the nationwide rate was 9 percent. However, once the courts started sending out sheriff deputies to bring the no-shows into court and explain their absences, the no-show rate dropped to 5.1 percent in 2012 [source: WSB]. Your jury summons notice probably states that you can be fined or arrested for failing to report for jury duty. Whether this would happen in practice might depend on how fed up the judges are with no-shows. If you missed jury duty purely by accident, call the court immediately and explain. There should be a phone number on the summons. You might get lucky and find your number was not needed. And even if it was, chances are you'll just be given another date to serve on a jury.

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Originally Published: Apr 24, 2015
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

The horizontal axis corresponds to the elongation of a city, and the vertical axis to its sprawl. Kaduna has the most compact urban form, contributing to having shorter commuting distances. Credit: Complexity Science Hub

Using a new dataset, Rafael Prieto-Curiel of the Complexity Science Hub and colleagues analyzed the coordinates and surface of 183 million buildings in nearly 6,000 cities across all 52 countries in Africa. With their model, they quantify the shape of cities. Thus, they show that if a city's population doubles, the energy demand associated with commuting triples. These results clearly show how important it will be to plan fast-growing cities in a sustainable way.

"Our model allows us to estimate African cities' transport requirements and energy needs with a never before seen accuracy," Prieto-Curiel, researcher at the Complexity Science Hub, says. The research is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Together with Jorge E. Patino from Universidad EAFIT and Brile Anderson from OECD, he studied a recently published dataset from Google AI. With this unprecedented data the researchers measured the mean distance between buildings in 6.000 African cities and used it as a proxy for energy demand related to mobility. Africa is an exceptional place for this research. By comparison, there are less than 400 metropolitan areas in the US. In addition, African cities will grow faster than ever before.

"Based on the distance between buildings, we calculated the expected distance and time to travel for every single person within a city," Prieto-Curiel explains. Their result: double the population means triple the energy costs. After all, more people are traveling longer distances.

Large cities tend to be round, small cities sausage-shaped

This tripling effect is due in part to urban morphology and how cities grow. "Constructing bigger buildings (area and height) near the city center reduces the commuting distance, as well as the energy consumption of the city and helps preserve green spaces," Prieto-Curiel explains one of their findings.

The team also learned that big cities tend to be shaped differently than smaller cities. As they grow, larger cities tend to become slightly rounder and more compact. Smaller cities tend to have more of a sausage shape.

Sausage shape increases pollution

Imagine two cities that both have the same number of inhabitants. If one is round and compact, then objects and people are relatively close to each other. If the other one is shaped like a sausage, then some people must spend more time and energy to get from one side to the other. The problem with this is not only time, but also pollution. So a sausage-like city causes more pollution because of its shape.

"Frequently, cities grow on the periphery as more housing is built in areas where the city is growing. This type of urban growth increases commuting distances and makes it more difficult to provide enough services for the new houses, such as sewage and electricity," Prieto-Curiel explains.

A look into the future of Africa

In many parts of the world extensive urbanization has already taken place. In Africa, the next three decades will bring profound changes, forecasts indicate. Currently, cities like Cairo, Lagos, Luanda, Dar es Salaam, Nairobi and Addis Ababa are home to millions of people, and they are expected to increase their size considerably within the next decades.

"By 2050, Africa will have an additional 950 million people living in cities, up from 574 million people in 2015," Prieto-Curiel states. More buildingsapartments, schools, hospitals, etc.will have to be constructed.

Where and how these new buildings are built matters greatly because today's decisions will be with us for decades to come. And the resulting morphology of cities impacts permanently on a city's energy needs. "We should plan especially those cities that will grow extremely fast in the next twenty years with special consideration. They must be extremely resilient to many challenges," Prieto-Curiel emphasizes.

Combining enormous amounts of data

To conduct this study, the research team brought together massive amounts of data: A new dataset of Google AI provided coordinates of every single building in Africa's cities. In combination with data from Africapolis, the German Aerospace Center and OpenStreetMap the researchers measured the shape of nearly 6,000 cities across Africa.

They then constructed a set of indicators. Indicators like the number of buildings, their constructed surface, the amount of space used by the city center, how elongated or compact a city isto name just a few. These indicators make all cities comparable for the first timelarge and small.

"Until now, we only had satellite images, but it was very difficult to manipulate these photos. Especially in smaller cities, it's not so easy to identify what a building is," Prieto-Curiel explains. Google AI's new open access data set has changed that. Using a machine learning process, it can define the vertices of each building as coordinates. Like a city made of Lego bricks.

New data, new chances

Much of the collective knowledge of urban forms in African cities and future energy needs was based on samples of only a few cities. Advancements like the data used for this study and its findings are critical to the future of cities. Only in this way can we put urbanization on a path of resilience and sustainability in the coming decades.

"Our results show that future energy needs for transport could be incredibly cumbersome if trends continue," Prieto-Curiel states. Designing compact, dense, and better-connected urban forms will help cities be more sustainable and liveable. Particularly in the case of African cities that will experience rapid growth within the next few decades.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Harvest control rule for Sacramento River fall Chinook. The control rule is defined in terms of the minimum stock size threshold (MSST; 91 500), adult spawners that achieve maximum sustainable yield (S MSY ; 122 000), and the annual exploitation rate associated with the acceptable biological catch (F ABC ; 0.7). The allowable exploitation rate is determined by the post-season estimate of the Sacramento Index, which is the sum of ocean fishery harvest, non-retention ocean fishery impacts, recreational fishery harvest in the Sacramento River, and spawner escapement. Credit: Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1139/cjfas-2022-0171

By returning to spawn in the Sacramento River at different ages, Chinook salmon lessen the potential impact of a bad year and increase the stability of their population in the face of climate variability, according to a new study by scientists at UC Santa Cruz and NOAA Fisheries.

Unfortunately, spawning Chinook salmon are increasingly younger and concentrated within fewer age groups, with the oldest age classes of spawners rarely seen in recent years. The new study, published in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, suggests changes in hatchery practices and fishery management could help restore the age structure of the salmon population and make it more resilient to climate change.

The researchers focused on Sacramento River fall-run Chinook salmon, which contribute heavily to the salmon fisheries of California and southern Oregon. This population is particularly susceptible to the effects of increasingly severe drought conditions driven by climate change.

"As we get more variable climate conditions, with greater extremes of rainfall and drought, we are going to see more 'boom-and-bust' population dynamics unless we start to restore the age structure of the population, which can spread out the effects of good and bad years across time," said senior author Eric Palkovacs, professor of ecology and evolutionary biology and director of the Fisheries Collaborative Program at UC Santa Cruz.

If most of the salmon return to spawn at the same age, one bad year could be devastating for the overall population. Spreading the risk over multiple years is an example of what ecologists call the "portfolio effect," like a financial portfolio that spreads risk over multiple investments.

First author Paul Carvalho, a postdoctoral fellow with the Fisheries Collaborative Program, explained that juvenile salmon are especially vulnerable to the effects of drought as they migrate to the ocean from freshwater rivers and streams.

"We focused on the impacts of drought on the survival of juvenile salmon, but drought conditions can also increase mortality of returning adult salmon as they migrate upstream to spawn," he said.

Carvalho developed a life cycle model of the Sacramento River fall-run Chinook salmon population to simulate the effects of different drought scenarios and other variables on the population. The model was grounded in data from field studies, such as research by NOAA Fisheries scientists that quantified the relationship between river flows and survival rates of juvenile salmon.

The model allowed the researchers to assess the effects of different mechanisms that can affect the age structure of the population. A century ago, most of the spawning salmon returning to the Sacramento River watershed were four years old, and some were as old as six years. Today, however, six-year-old fish are rarely observed and most of the spawners are three years old.

"Historically, you would have seen huge salmon coming back at older ages, but over the past century they've gotten smaller and younger," Palkovacs said. "The dominant age class is now 3 years, and there are very few even at age 5, so there's been a big shift in the age structure."

Decreased size and age at maturity is a classic pattern of fisheries-induced evolution. A high mortality rate for older fish selects for fish that mature at earlier ages, because a fish that dies before it can spawn doesn't pass on its genes. But fishing pressure is not the only factor driving changes in the age structure of the salmon population. Hatchery practices can also inadvertently select for earlier maturation.

"It's pretty clear that current hatchery practices are resulting in very homogeneous populations returning at age three," Palkovacs said. "Rather than producing a uniform product, it would be better to increase the diversity of the age structure by selecting older, larger fish and making sure you get as many of them into the spawning population as possible."

Carvalho noted that improving the age structure of the population by selecting for fish that spend more years at sea (delayed maturation) would be most effective in combination with reduced harvest rates.

"Because the fish remain in the ocean longer, they are exposed to the fishery and other causes of mortality for a longer period, so that reduces the number returning to spawn if you don't reduce fishing pressure on those older age classes," he said.

Overall, the results show that maintaining or increasing the age structure through reduced mortality and delayed maturation improves the stability of the salmon population, buffering against the adverse effects of drought and making the population more resilient in an increasingly variable climate.

"Regardless of the mechanism, whether it's reduced mortality or delayed maturation that's driving it, increasing the diversity of the age structure will increase the stability of the population," Carvalho said.

More information: Paul G. Carvalho et al, Role of maturation and mortality in portfolio effects and climate resilience, Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1139/cjfas-2022-0171 Journal information: Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

The moment 0 map and spectrum snippets of the strong emission lines. For each strong line(s), the lens-subtracted, continuum-subtracted moment 0 map is displayed in the first row, with the same marked regions as in Figure 1. The spectrum snippets are shown in the second row, integrated over the three regions. The spectra are offset vertically to aid vision, with the zero baseline indicated by a thin black line. The green dashed line indicates the Gaussian fit to the line or line associations plus the linear fit to the local continuum. The labeling style and color of the spectrum are the same as Figure 1. Credit: The Astrophysical Journal Letters (2023). DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/acb59c

Scanning the first images of a well-known early galaxy taken by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), Cornell astronomers were intrigued to see a blob of light near its outer edge.

Their initial focus, and the infrared observatory's target, was SPT0418-47, one of the brightest dusty, star-forming galaxies in the early universe, its distant light bent and magnified by a foreground galaxy's gravity into a circle, called an Einstein ring.

But a deeper dive into the early JWST data released last fall produced a serendipitous discovery: a companion galaxy previously hidden behind the light of the foreground galaxy, one that surprisingly seems to have already hosted multiple generations of stars despite its young age, estimated at 1.4 billion years old.

"We found this galaxy to be super-chemically abundant, something none of us expected," said Bo Peng, a doctoral student in astronomy, who led the data analysis. "JWST changes the way we view this system and opens up new venues to study how stars and galaxies formed in the early universe."

Peng is the lead author of "Discovery of a Dusty, Chemically Mature Companion to z~4 Starburst Galaxy in JWST Early Release Science Data," published Feb. 17 in the Astrophysical Journal Letters, with eight co-authors who are current or former members of the Department of Astronomy in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Earlier images of the same Einstein ring captured by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile contained hints of the companion resolved clearly by JSWT, but they couldn't be interpreted as anything more than random noise, said Amit Vishwas, a research associate at the Cornell Center for Astrophysics and Planetary Sciences (CCAPS) and the paper's second author.

Investigating spectral data embedded in each pixel of images from JWST's NIRSpec instrument, Peng identified a second new light source inside the ring. He determined that the two new sources were the images of a new galaxy being gravitationally lensed by the same foreground galaxy responsible for creating the ring, although they were eight to 16 times faintera testament to the power of JWST's infrared vision.

Further analysis of the light's chemical composition confirmed that strong emission lines from hydrogen, nitrogen and sulfur atoms displayed similar redshiftsa measure of how much light from a galaxy stretches into longer, redder wavelengths as it grows more distant. That placed the two galaxies roughly the same distance from Earthcalculated as a redshift of about 4.2, or about 10% of the universe's ageand in the same neighborhood.

To verify their discovery, the researchers returned to earlier ALMA observations. They found an emission line of ionized carbon closely matched the redshifts observed by JWST.

"That really nailed it down," Vishwas said. "Because we have several emission lines shifted by exactly the same amount, there's no doubt that this new galaxy is where we think it is."

The team estimated the companion galaxy, which they labeled SPT0418-SE, was within 5 kiloparsecs of the ring. (The Magellanic Clouds, satellites of the Milky Way, are about 50 kiloparsecs away.) That proximity suggests the galaxies are bound to interact with each other and potentially even merge, an observation that adds to the understanding of how early galaxies may have evolved into larger ones.

The two galaxies are modest in mass as galaxies in the early universe go, with "SE" relatively smaller and less dusty, making it appear bluer than the extremely dust-obscured ring. Based on images of nearby galaxies with similar colors, the researchers suggest that they may reside "in a massive dark-matter halo with yet-to-be-discovered neighbors."

Most surprising about the companion galaxy, considering its age and mass, was its mature metallicityamounts of elements heavier than helium and hydrogen, such as carbon, oxygen and nitrogen. The team estimated that as comparable to our sun, which is more than 4 billion years old and inherited most of its metals from previous generations of stars that had 8 billion years to build them up.

"We are seeing the leftovers of at least a couple of generations of stars having lived and died within the first billion years of the universe's existence, which is not what we typically see," Vishwas said. "We speculate that the process of forming stars in these galaxies must have been very efficient and started very early in the universe, particularly to explain the measured abundance of nitrogen relative to oxygen, as this ratio is a reliable measure of how many generations of stars have lived and died."

The researchers have submitted a proposal for JWST observing time to continue study of the ring and its companions and reconcile potential differences observed between the optical and far-infrared spectrum.

"We're still working on this galaxy," Peng said. "There's more to explore in this data."

The team thanked the early release science program that made the JWST data immediately available to the public, called TEMPLATES: Targeting Extremely Magnified Panchromatic Lensed Arcs and Their Extended Star formation, led by NASA astrophysicist Jane Rigby, the observatory's operations project scientist.

More information: Bo Peng et al, Discovery of a Dusty, Chemically Mature Companion to a z  4 Starburst Galaxy in JWST ERS Data, The Astrophysical Journal Letters (2023). DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/acb59c Journal information: Astrophysical Journal Letters
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Anglo American = blue, Glencore = turquoise, Rio Tinto = orange. Credit: Trading View

Ron DeSantis, Florida's Republican governor and likely future presidential contender, has opened up a new front in his party's war on "woke capitalism." He is proposing to change the rules around how public bodies within Florida borrow from the markets by issuing bonds.

The proposal is that they would no longer be able to work with ratings agencies that value the bonds using the ESG (environmental, social and governance) sustainability criteria that have become commonplace in the world of finance in the past few years. Public bodies and companies with lower ESG scores can see this reflected in their borrowing costs, and some politicians on the right object to this "interference" with market valuations.

DeSantis already pledged in December to pull US$2 billion (1.7 billion) of the state's investment from BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager and a key player in the ESG movement. This was after 19 Republican state attorneys-general told the asset manager in a letter: "Our states will not idly stand for our pensioners' retirements to be sacrificed for BlackRock's climate agenda."

Eighteen states have also either proposed or adopted legislation over the past two years restricting state business with financial institutions that use ESG criteria to limit funding to industries like fossil fuels.

According to Republican senator Kevin Cramer from North Dakota, banks and asset managers "should ignore calls for ESG and woke capitalism and stick to what they do best." Former vice president Mike Pence wants the the next Republican congress to work to "end the use of ESG principles nationwide."

What they get wrong

Newly in charge of a Congressional branch, Republicans are taking their quest to Washington, DC. Andy Barr, the new chair of the House financial services subcommittee responsible for financial institutions, claimed America's financial system had been "co-opted by the intolerant left that is intolerant of diversity." For the US to be economically competitive, he said "we need our financial system to provide equal access to capital to all kinds of businesses."

This revealed either a remarkable ignorance about financial markets and the financial risks posed by environmental and social challengesor he was being cynically misleading to score political points.

The notion of equal access to capital flies in the face of one of the central tenets of capitalism. The ability of different organizations to borrow and the price they pay is never equal. It depends on the risk of the investment and how many investors will take that risk.

Consider mining. It inherently impacts the environment and surrounding communities. Communities can tie owners up in lawsuits or even block mining access if their concerns go unaddressed. This can affect the mine's profitability.

Researchers have shown how two gold mines with the same volumes of gold and extraction costs can be valued radically differently depending on local support. ESG ratings seek to capture such factors to enable investors to make better informed decisions.

For asset managers like BlackRock, it's also about customer demand. If investments that mitigate ESG risks offer a better risk-adjusted return and investors are increasingly shunning certain companiesbe it gun manufacturers or fossil fuel producersit will affect where money flows.

BlackRock's CEO, Larry Fink, recently said that his company lost about US$4 billion in assets from Republican-led states withdrawing money in 2022, but added US$400 billion overall. Nothing nefarious or political here, just capitalism at work.

Owners of dirty assets can still raise capital. It's just that the price may be higher. Look at the divergent coal strategies of mining giants Rio Tinto, Anglo American and Glencore.

Rio Tinto entirely exited coal in 2018. Anglo American has created a separate entity for these assets called Thungela, while Glencore still has coal in its portfolio and proposes to run it down responsibly over time. (Full disclosure: I hold the Rio Tinto Chair in Stakeholder Engagement at IMD, but the company has no influence over my research.)

Investors can choose between these strategies. At any moment, these companies' borrowing costs will reflect the consensus assessment of the underlying risk, including from ESG factors.

Glencore has not been cut off from capital markets and is doing quite wellreporting record 2022 profits fuelled largely by coal. Yet its share price has not outperformed its peers, reflecting investor concerns about the long-term strategy.

Woke capitalism?

David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker magazine, recently said that for "conservatives now, wokeness is the root cause of everything negative." He interviewed linguist Tony Thorne, who traced the term to a 1971 Black liberationist play in which the main character says "I must stay woke."

Thorne explained that for today's progressives, particularly following Black Lives Matter, "woke" became synonymous with "socially aware" or "empathetic." But conservatives, he said, made this vague term a proxy for leftist self-righteousness, and so "anti-woke" became the rallying cry for any social change they opposejust like "political correctness" a generation ago.

While US conservatives are particularly fixated on anti-wokeness"Florida is where woke goes to die," intoned Governor DeSantis in his November victory speechit is not just an American phenomenon. For instance, the Atlantic magazine's Thomas Chatterton Williams recently observed: "The French are in a panic about Le Wokisme." Europe's debate has not yet spilled into financial markets, though it may only be a matter of time.

By labeling ESG "woke," conservatives imply that large parts of the US$100 trillion global asset management industry have been hijacked by leftists. Having spent time with lots of asset managers, it's nonsense.

Of course, not all is well in ESG land. Greenwashing is rampant, and rating agencies and asset managers get criticized for insufficiently scrutinizing firms' actual ESG performances.

Most dramatically in May 2022, German prosecutors raided the offices of DWS, Deutsche Bank's asset management unit, following allegations that it had vastly overstated its ESG investments. Lawsuits are ongoing, and DWS denies it misled investors.

Yet the idea that a firm would dress up "normal" assets as ESG simply demonstrates the investor demand for these products. Equally, greenwashing is pilloried because it makes it harder for investors to assess the underlying risks to a firm's future profitability. These problems highlight the need for better standards and regulation, which is to be expected in a nascent field like this.

Despite conservative opposition, analysts expect ESG investment to almost double over the next three years to nearly US$34 trillion, representing one in every five dollars invested worldwide. This is not an aberration of free-market principles but a reflection of them. That U.S. Republicans are puzzled by this says more about them and the echo chambers in which they have been moving than about the state of ESG.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

It's no secret that the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic struck corporations with an unprecedented number of business challenges, and even casual observers can note that companies' ability to withstand the stresses of quarantine-era trials varied widely among companies in similar industries and with similar business models. So why the difference in performance?

Research from Colorado State University's College of Business suggests that the type of leadership used by different types of board chairs in may influence success in crisis contexts.

In "Leading the Board in a Crisis: Strategy and Performance Implications of Board Chair Directive Leadership" the Department of Management's Mary Waller and her co-authors found that when a non-CEO chair engaged in a decisive, hands-on leadership style known as directive leadership in response to the crisis, their companies were more likely to create streamlined, simple strategies and fared well. However, when the board was chaired by the company's CEO, that same leadership style wasn't associated with performance advantages.

"During a severe crisis, if the CEO is chairing the board and engaging in directive leadership, it may act to intimidate or silence the beneficial oversight of the board," Waller, who teaches in the College of Business Online MBA program, said On the other hand, with a non-CEO chairing the board during a crisis, that same directive leadership may encourage the oversight capabilities of the board that results in a simplifying of the strategy."

Firms that simplified their business strategiesor engaged in "strategic simplification"during the pandemic saw better financial performance than those that developed more complicated responses to the unexpected events. Waller chalked up the differences in outcome to the tendency of leaders in crises to plan too far in advance or address too many issues when developing crisis strategies. With the oversight a non-CEO chair provides to moderate those responses, researchers found firms' performance was better.

"It's part of the human condition," she explained. "When we when we see complex crisis situations staring us in the face, our gut instinct often is to try to plan a complex response to it, with lots of contingencies. Planning is good, but there is definitely a point of diminishing return to that complexity during a crisis."

Making time for research during a pandemic

The conclusions stem from surveys sent to board members as the COVID-19 crisis gripped the United States. In ideal circumstances, receiving responses from board members to research-related surveys can be difficult, and soliciting responses during the middle of a pandemic added an additional headwind.

"Who's going to respond to a survey during a crisis?" Waller said. "The chances were pretty low, but we still got a reasonable number of responses. And it was it was pretty random, so there wasn't any identifiable bias concerning who responded and who didn't. It was a large enough sample that we could actually do something with it."

Waller and her co-authors sent surveys to 9,598 directors representing more than 2,000 companies during the initial stages of the pandemic between Apr 28 and May 5, 2020. This coincided with the period state regulations relaxed and companies returned to work. They received responses from 170 directors, representing about 7% of all firms surveyed. After eliminating a few responses for which researchers were unable to obtain necessary secondary data, the respondent pool still represented a statistically significant sampling to analyze.

"To use a data set and survey a reasonable number of organizations and get those surveys back and ask them at the moment what they were experiencing during the COVID crisis was really incredible," Waller said.

Planning for a crisis

The research presents a look into competitive simplification during a crisis that focuses on different implications between CEO and non-CEO chairs' behavior, and finding answers that can help directors weather future crises. While there's an obvious bottom-line advantage for firms to perform under the pressure of a crisis, Waller sees implications that impact more than shareholders and executives. This research provides organizations with another tool to reduce the pressure placed on employees tasked with keeping the firm afloat in a crisis.

"When people are subjected to experiencing crisis after crisis after crisis, they experience stress. They experience burnout. They leave the organization, or even worse, they take all that stress home with them," she said. "They take it out on their families, they become ill.

"There is absolutely no excuse for any organization not to have crisis management training throughout the layers of the organization and a continuously updated crisis management plan," she continued. "Crises are going to keep coming. Ethically and morally, it's absolutely unethical for organizational leadership to continually subject people in an organization to crisis situations without giving them the crisis management training that will help them adapt to any unexpected situation and cope with the stress that these situations bring."

The work is published in the Journal of Management.

More information: Ryan Krause et al, Leading the Board in a Crisis: Strategy and Performance Implications of Board Chair Directive Leadership, Journal of Management (2022). DOI: 10.1177/01492063221121584 Journal information: Journal of Management
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Diversification and diversity dynamics of all elasmobranch species. Bayesian estimations of speciation and extinction rates through time as inferred by PyRate using reversible jump Markov Chain Monte Carlo. Marginal estimates of speciation rates (A) and extinction rates (C) through time are shown as mean and 95% credibility intervals (shaded areas). The frequency of a sampled rate shift is computed within small time bins for speciation and extinction rates (B and D, respectively), with horizontal dashed lines indicating log-Bayes factors of 2 (bottom) and 6 (top). Sampling frequencies higher than log-Bayes factors = 6 indicate strong statistical support for a rate shift. Panel (E) shows net diversification rates through time (computed as the posterior difference between speciation and extinction rates through time). Panel (F) shows the number of species through time computed by summing up the lifespans of all species. The red vertical line indicates the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. Time is millions of years. Credit: Science (2023). DOI: 10.1126/science.abn2080 . https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abn2080

A pair of researchers, Guillaume Guinot and Fabien Condamine, both with Universite de Montpellier, in France, has looked at the impact of the CretaceousPaleogene (K-Pg) extinction event on elasmobranch species to learn more about survival of marine creatures during extinction events. In their study, published in the journal Science, the marine biologists collected and analyzed data for thousands of fossil species that were living during the Late CretaceousPaleocene era.

Scientists have learned a lot about what happened after the Chicxulub impactor crashed into the Earth approximately 66 million years ago. The violent impact and its aftermath led to widespread extinction of approximately 55% to 76% of all the planet's creaturesincluding all of the non-bird dinosaurs. But most findings involve the impact on land-based ecosystemsmuch less is known about what happened to the sea life. In this new effort, the researchers focused their effort on just one subclass of cartilaginous fishthe elasmobranchand how it fared in the aftermath of the K-Pg event.

Elasmobranch species include sharks, rays, skates and sawfish. To learn about what happened to them after the massive asteroid strike, Guinot and Condamine scoured information in datasets around the world describing elasmobranch fossil specimens that have been found and studied over the years. In particular, they were looking at survival rates to find patterns that might shed light on how they endured.

They found that the number of species of elasmobranch overall declined by over 62% following the asteroid strike, and some species of elasmobranch had higher survival rates than others. They found that rays did better than sharksoverall, 72% of ray species survived, while only 59% of sharks did.

More specific results included the discovery that rays that fed on shellfish did not fare well; neither did older species of sharks. Combined, they had an extinction rate of 72%. On the other hand, species that lived in the higher latitudes and lived over large geographic ranges not only had higher initial survival rates, but also recovered more quickly than other species.

More information: Guillaume Guinot, Global impact and selectivity of the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction among sharks, skates, and rays, Science (2023). DOI: 10.1126/science.abn2080. www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abn2080 Journal information: Science

 2023 Science X Network
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

It's been 23 years since Congress passed the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan, an ambitious program to undo, at least in part, the damage done by humans to one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet.

In the interim, Everglades restoration has made halting progress, with much of the delay centered around a key central componenta reservoir and filtration marshes that reconnect Lake Okeechobee with the Everglades.

The reservoir and stormwater treatment marshes would store dirty water from Lake Okeechobee, clean it, and send it south to the parched Everglades and eventually to Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Last week, the Army Corps of Engineers and the South Florida Water Management District finally broke ground on the project, dubbed The Everglades Agricultural Area Reservoir. Both organizations refer to it as the "crown jewel" of the restoration process. It's one of 68 projects outlined in the restoration plan, but arguably the most important.

This project "is the keystone that deliberately reconnects Lake Okeechobee to the Everglades," said Col. James Booth, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District at the groundbreaking on Wednesday.

To understand the function of the reservoir, you must understand what the EAA is. The Everglades once flowed from just south of Orlando, through Lake Okeechobee, all the way to Florida Bay. It has been dammed and drained. The EAA, once part of the River of Grass, is now a 1,160-square-mile block of farmland below Lake Okeechobee covered in sugarcane and other crops.

The area depends on water from the lake for irrigation, and its existence and water needs have dictated where water flows in South Florida for decades.

In order to reconnect the Lake Okeechobee to the Everglades, which needs the fresh water, the reservoir will allow a portion of the lake's water to skirt farmland and head south, just as it had for thousands of years.

The original CERP plan called for a massive six-foot-deep, 60,000-acre lake on EAA land. What the EAA Reservoir actually will be is a 10,000-acre square that's 23 feet deep. Its total capacity will be about two-thirds of the original plan.

Steven Davis, chief science officer for The Everglades Foundation, has been closely monitoring CERP for decades. "The constraint was, one, we were looking at state-owned land, and the consideration of willing sellers. So we were constrained with the footprint of the parcel, 17,000 acres," Davis said.

Davis said the reservoir will be complete, if all goes well, by 2030, and will then need a few years of testing to ensure safety. He hopes to see water flowing south out of the stormwater treatment areas by 2032.

The South Florida Water Management District began construction on the EAA stormwater treatment areas in April 2020. The result will be a 6,500-acre constructed wetland that will use aquatic vegetation to naturally remove nutrient pollution and clean water before it flows south into the Everglades. They will be filled with nutrient-consuming vegetation that sequester phosphorus, a chemical needed for life, but one that can damage the Everglades, as well as cause algae blooms in coastal estuaries. The wetlands should be complete by late 2023.

Davis said there will be a trail around the EAA Reservoir for biking and hiking, and the 6,500 acres of the stormwater marshes will essentially be wildlife habitats for birds and fish. Similar marshes in the CERP plan have fishing and waterfowl hunting access, so that's a possibility here as well.

In addition the the EAA Reservoir, one of the most pivotal CERP projects is the 1-Mile Bridge under the Tamiami Trail, a highway that essentially dammed up Everglades when it was built in 1928.

Completed in 2012, just west of the Miccosukee Casino & Resort, the bridge, along with other projects, have created gaps allowing water to flow south, instead of being diverted to coastal areas.

Drew Bartlett, of the water management district, said at a recent Everglades conference that the last two years have seen record amounts of water flowing under the Tamiami Trail, south through the Everglades and into Florida Bay.

Mapping by the district indicates that 20 years ago, water flow in April was essentially stopped at the Tamiami Trail. The mapping from the last two years shows a distinct watery swatha river, essentially  moving right through the middle of the Everglades into Florida Bay, echoing the water flows of 100 years ago.

Another goal of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan is to even out the sheet flow of water.

Recent history saw compartmentalization of the Everglades. Some areas were too dry, causing peat fires, while others were too wet.

When the Tamiami Trail is acting as a dam, the area north of it has too much water too often, resulting in drowned tree islands, the habitat historically used by racoons, deer and the endangered Florida panther.

Davis pointed out the plight of the endangered cape sable seaside sparrow, which nests in areas that every summer would have pulses of very high water that should have been spread across the 50-mile width of the ecosystem. That uneven flow floods their nests. Spreading water out will allow their nests to stay dry and their hatchlings to survive, he said.

The dry areas south of the Tamiami Trail also invite saltwater intrusion from sea-level rise and threatens drinking water. Millions of people in South Florida, including residents of Broward and parts of Palm Beach County, rely on the Everglades for drinking water, which would be destroyed by salt water.

Salt-water intrusion "is unabated right now," David said, "particularly at the height of the dry season, those marshes are drying out completely, which means there's a void to be filled by sea water. If we can send more water south, especially during the dry season, we've got something to push back with."

Another issue abated by the EAA Reservoir is the disastrous Lake Okeechobee discharges to both the Caloosahatchee River and the St. Lucie area. The discharges are linked to algae blooms and catastrophic seagrass die-offs inside Jupiter Inlet in the Indian River Lagoon. With more water headed south, Davis said, those discharges will be reduced.

2023 South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Researchers, publishing in the International Journal of Green Economics, have investigated the many factors that affect consumer attitudes and buying habits when it comes to organic food products. Mohd Farhan of the Mittal School of Business in Punjab, India, suggests that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led many consumers to become more aware of how the nutritional quality of the food they eat affects their health. This has led to an increased awareness of organic food products.

Farhan surveyed 600 people in India and Nepal to ascertain how food habits and consumption patterns have changed recently. He analyzed the data using Smart Partial Least Squares and Mann-Whitney tests.

The analyses revealed that safety, awareness, and trust had a positive impact on a person's inclination to consume organic food as opposed to other food products. Farhan also showed that the perceived health benefits as well as hedonic and social values were found to influence consumer attitudes towards organic food in a positive manner. This inevitably led to those consumers being more likely to buy organic food products.

The findings highlight the importance of awareness and education with regard to organic food. It is likely that demand will continue to rise in the next few years and producers and sellers need to be aware of this in order to benefit from improved awareness among their potential customers and to find ways to meet increasing demand.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought health issues to the fore the world over and many people are looking for healthier food options as part of their approach to coping with the risks surrounding the disease. Of course, it might be argued that the benefits of organic versus non-organic food products may not be as significant as is often claimed.

Nevertheless, increased food and health awareness and education will always be beneficial and those people opting for organic foods may also make other changes to their eating habits and lifestyle in the name of improving their health that will have additional, more tangible benefits.

The producers and marketers of organic foods must demonstrate the benefits of their produce honestly and show that the generally higher price is offset by associated improved health and environmental factors.

More information: Mohd Farhan, Organic food consumption in emerging markets after COVID19: value-attitude-behaviour model, International Journal of Green Economics (2023). DOI: 10.1504/IJGE.2022.10053419

Provided by Inderscience
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Activists from Greenpeace display a banner outside the United Nations headquarters during negotiations on a treaty to protect the high seas in New York on February 27, 2023.

UN member states have much work to do to finally agree a treaty to protect the high seas before scheduled negotiations close in five days, participants and observers say.

After 15 years of formal and informal talks, delegates have been meeting in New York since February 20 for the third "final" negotiating round in less than a year.

"There was progress last week but there are a lot of issues still to resolve," Nathalie Rey of the High Seas Alliance, which includes some 40 NGOs, told AFP.

"There's a need to pick up the pace in the second week to make sure that we do get the treaty over the line. I'm still remaining optimistic that's possible," she added.

Others, however, are less positive that an agreement can be reached before talks are due to end on Friday.

"Negotiations have been going around in circles, progressing at a snail's pace," Greenpeace's Laura Meller said in a statement.

Acknowledging that many key issues remain unresolved, conference chair Rena Lee urged negotiators to be "flexible and creative" Monday.

Jamaica's representative said flexibility should not come at the cost of ambition.

"Look forward, look to the best outcome, see how best you can be flexible, otherwise we will not achieve an agreement (and) these 20 years will be a failure and we will have no one to blame but ourselves," he pleaded.

The high seas begin at the border of countries' Exclusive Economic Zones, which extend up to 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) from coastlines. They thus fall under the jurisdiction of no country.

While the high seas comprise more than 60 percent of the world's oceans and nearly half the planet's surface, they have long drawn far less attention than coastal waters and a few iconic species.

An updated draft text published this past weekend is still full of parenthetic clauses and multiple options on some major issues that will determine the robustness of the final agreement.

Still under dispute is how the marine protected areas, a core part of any future treaty's mandate, will be created.

"When we left (the previous round of negotiations) in August this was 95 percent good, but we're worried it's being watered-down," Minna Epps, of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, told AFP.

China

Several observers told AFP that China is pushing for the future governing body of any eventual treaty, known as the conference of the parties (COP), to determine the sanctuaries by consensus rather than a majority vote.

They say China is trying to give itself a de facto veto, like the one Beijing has used for years to prevent the creation of other marine protected areas by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).

"China must urgently reimagine its role at these negotiations," said Greenpeace's Meller.

She urged Beijing to show the same leadership as in December when, under its presidency of COP15 in Montreal, all the world's governments committed to protecting 30 percent of the planet's land and oceans by 2030.

That aim is almost impossible without including the high seas, of which only about one percent is protected today.

Another contentious issue is how to assess the environmental impact of activities like mining.

How to divide eventual profits from the collectionby pharmaceutical, chemical or cosmetic manufacturers, for exampleof newly discovered marine substances also divides rich and poor countries.

A negotiator told AFP that agreement on that issue was "quite close." Consensus there could help unblock other sticking points, observers say.

Whatever the compromises, "We have to have a treaty that changes the status quo," said Andreas Hansen of The Nature Conservancy.

"Otherwise it will not be effective in helping to halt and reverse biodiversity loss in the ocean," he told AFP.

 2023 AFP
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WVU economist Zachary Porreca compared data on property values and shootings in Philadelphia and found that when one block gentrifies, drug crime migrates to neighboring blocks, escalating in the process. Credit: WVU

Gentrification doesn't erase drug crime and gun violence. Instead, research from West Virginia University economist Zachary Porreca shows that when one urban block becomes upwardly mobile, organized criminal activity surges outward to surrounding blocks, escalating the violence in the process.

Porreca, a WVU doctoral student in the John Chambers College of Business and Economics, analyzed 2011-2020 data on shootings and real estate across various Philadelphia neighborhoods. His paper presenting the findings, published in the Journal of Economic Behavior and Organization, is one of the first of its kind to study the impact of gentrification on crime displacement.

"Over the 10-year window of the study, Philadelphia experienced some 5,800 shootings that can be attributed to gentrification," Porreca said. "That means that of the 27,000 shootings that occurred across the city during that decade, almost a quarter may have been spillover effects of gentrification.

"Gentrification increases levels of gun violence in neighbor blocks, even more so when the gentrified block itself has a history of drug crime. There's an average increase of nearly nine shootings in the surrounding neighborhood, or an 18% increase in gun violence on blocks linked to gentrified blocks, as drug crime that existed on a block pre-gentrification is pushed into the surrounding neighborhood by the new development."

The gentrification of drug blocks specifically, as opposed to all gentrifying blocks in Philadelphia, accounted for roughly 2,400 additional shootings during the 10 years of his study. This suggests that some 8% of Philadelphia's gun violence can be attributed to gentrification destabilizing the city's illicit drug markets.

"Those numbers are a striking representation of why it's crucial that urban development occur responsibly and intentionally," Porreca said. "Forced displacement of priced-out residents has very real effects on the surrounding neighborhoods."

Porreca described gentrification as a "destabilizing force that happens when new residents of higher socioeconomic standing move to a traditionally lower-income neighborhood. Gentrified neighborhoods grow wealthier, more educated, exhibit higher rates of home ownership and experience significant racial demographic changes. This process involves replacing many of the original residents, and that makes it more difficult for a criminal organization to operate openly. Gentrification also leads to increased policing and more punitive policing practices, and overall makes a block less suitable for drug competition."

Porreca emphasized that a criminal organization displaced in this way won't want to go far. Those with that organization will look for new territory within the immediate surrounding blocks that have not yet begun gentrifying, because the local area is proven to be capable of sustaining drug activity and "because the organization has the requisite local knowledge, some level of community support and access to a proven clientele."

His research uses data related to shootings, income, housing, home sales and building, zoning and renovation permits to examine gentrification's effect on crime rates on a city's "frontiers," blocks that are newly gentrifying. It shows how gentrification and rapid urban development change the urban landscape of a city, as the emergence of new amenities and residents in traditionally neglected neighborhoods causes the shrinking and reshaping of drug markets' boundaries, escalating competition and violence.

Gentrification not only constitutes a "shock" to the total viable territory available to rival criminal organizations, bringing them into closer proximity with each other, but it also spurs gun violence by forcing intracity migration"displacing residents from their long-term homes and forcing them into the remaining viable tracts of affordable housing," Porreca said.

"As an anecdotal example, a friend whose neighborhood became one of Philadelphia's trendiest areas told me that his family now lives on the same blocks with families from neighborhoods his original neighborhood once feuded with. These sorts of situations, where disaffected low-income residents are forced to live in unfamiliar neighborhoods surrounded by similarly disaffected and displaced neighbors, have the potential to cause excessive tension. That that can give rise to explosions in gun violence isn't surprising."

Porreca suggested that police resources could be utilized in the neighborhoods surrounding newly developed blocks.

"City policy may benefit from efforts to stave off the violent spillover effect through deployment of officers and social workers in areas experiencing significant population displacements," Porreca said. "Those displacements give rise to volatility and violence, and if we want to prevent community violence, then resources should be deployed proactively alongside the forces of development."
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Credit: University of Glasgow

Researchers have shown how sounds recorded by low-cost microphones could be used to help track infectious disease risks in the rainforest and in other rapidly changing landscapes.

The studypublished in Trends in Parasitology and led by the University of Glasgowdiscusses how listening to the sounds of an ecosystem can inform our understanding of factors that drive the spread of disease between animals and people.

The findings are the result of a partnership between researchers from the University of Glasgow, Danau Girang Field Center in Malaysia and Rainforest Connection, an NGO which uses sound recording to monitor endangered species and send real-time alerts to prevent poaching and illegal logging in the rainforests.

To track illegal activity, Rainforest Connection uses microphones to detect human noise in the forestnot specifically speech, but listening for sounds of activity like chainsaws, gunshots, or movement through the forest.

The researchers describe how this acoustic monitoringa cost-effective, non-invasive toolcould also be effectively used to strengthen early warning systems and improve disease surveillance.

By recording the sounds that animals make, researchers can detect changes in wildlife that could impact human disease risk; for example, tracking the changes in frequency of animal calls to identify mass mortality in wildlife due to a disease outbreak.

Acoustic data could be used to detect changes in the location or behaviors of animals in areas where zoonotic diseases (like malaria, yellow fever, rabies, trypanosomiasis and Rift Valley fever) exist and could pose a risk to other humans and animals. While acoustic monitoring won't replace existing field-based methods used to track disease risk, the researchers believe it could be a novel and useful tool when used in combination with current methods.

Credit: University of Glasgow

Passive acoustic monitoring is typically used in wildlife conservation. It is used to investigate population dynamics and behavioral trends of animals that make noiseincluding sound we cannot hear, like echolocation.

Working with Danau Girang Field Center in Malaysian Borneo, this study demonstrated how acoustic monitoring can be used to monitor the spread of zoonotic malaria from monkeys to mosquitoes to people.

For mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, detection of human activity at times when mosquitos are most active could indicate heightened disease risk and be used to identify where people are exposed to infectious mosquitoes. Within the Malaysian rainforest and plantation areas, researchers have now set up an acoustic monitoring grid to track when monkeys are moving into areas with mosquitos.

In areas experiencing extensive deforestation and intensive agriculture, patterns of disease risk are changing rapidly. Researchers discuss how, by placing acoustic devices across different landscapesfrom virgin jungle to oil palm plantationswe can begin to unpick the links between land use and human health.

Emilia Johnson, from the University of Glasgow's School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, said, "Emerging infectious diseases pose a significant burden on global public health, and there is a need to better understand diseases that crop up at the boundaries where human activity and wildlife habitats meet.

"Sound recording provides an opportunity to collect and analyze useful data in real-time and over very broad scales; in this way, acoustic surveys can complement existing surveillance methods and offer important new insight into the dynamic ecosystems that underpin infectious disease epidemiology."

The study, "Applications and Advances in Acoustic Monitoring for Infectious Disease Epidemiology," is published in Trends in Parasitology.

More information: Emilia Johnson et al, Applications and advances in acoustic monitoring for infectious disease epidemiology, Trends in Parasitology (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.01.008 Journal information: Trends in Parasitology
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The Cascade frog (Rana cascadae) was one of the charismatic frogs used in the researchers' analyses. Credit: Meryl Mims

Virginia Tech biological sciences postdoctoral researcher Traci DuBose wants to ensure no frogs or toads land below conservationists' radar.

For the last two years, DuBose has been measuring the intrinsic sensitivity of species to climate changea key determinant of extinction vulnerabilityin 90 species of anurans, commonly known as frogs and toads. By accessing publicly available data, DuBose and her team evaluated and compared more than 140,000 observations of anurans native to the contiguous United States, making it the first study of this size and scope.

"The United States is home to over 100 species of frogs and toads," said DuBose, a researcher in the Mims Lab at Virginia Tech led by Meryl Mims, associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences in the College of Science. "Frog and toad species are great study animals because they live in so many different areas like deserts, marshes, and forests and are very charismatic."

And by charismatic, DuBose said that people recognize both frogs and toads and hear them at dusk. "They might have good memories associated with them."

As a result of this research, DuBose was the lead author of a paper, "Mismatch between conservation status and climate change sensitivity leaves some anurans in the United States unprotected," recently published in Biological Conservation.

Globally, 41% of amphibians are threatened by anthropogenic changes, such as those made by people, to the landscape, based on assessments by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red List. This includes disease, invasive species, habitat loss, and climate change. Climate change vulnerability is defined in part by characteristics that govern a species' susceptibility and capacity to persist in place through shifts in temperature, precipitation, and other environmental variables.

But even in regions with relatively high data availability, such as the United States, a systematic, multispecies assessment of the intrinsic sensitivity of anurans to climate change is lacking, which may leave some vulnerable species overlooked.

DuBose and her team's research builds on an initial faculty seed grant awarded in 2018 by the Global Change Center to study species vulnerability. Co-authors on the paper, Sam Silknetter, Chloe Moore, Grace O'Malley, are all Interfaces of Global Change fellows through the Interdisciplinary Graduate Education Program, as well as recent graduate Tess Alexander, who was supported by a Global Change Center Undergraduate Research Award.

In 2019, the Mims Lab at Virginia Tech was awarded additional funding from the U.S. Geological Survey. In this capacity, the lab works closely with the organization's scientists to understand species vulnerability to climate change, with regular meetings and collaborations on projects, publications, and science communication products.

The research team capitalized on the two billion occurrence records of Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) data, which is free and provides open access to biodiversity data that details when and where a species is observed. It serves as an international network and data infrastructure funded by the world's governments.

The Hyla wrightorum, also known as the Arizona treefrog, was also featured in the data analyses and a focal species for other research in the Mims Lab. Credit: Meryl Mims

"GBIF was a game changer for us as it allowed us to include and compare many species directly with one another in ways not currently captured by most conservation status designation approaches," said DuBose.

Amphibians worldwide are affected by climate change and potentially one of the most threatened. DuBose and her team found that some species of amphibians are more likely to be sensitive to climate change because they are not protected by state or federal regulations. The team determined that approximately 11 percent of anuran species are sensitive to climate change, but are not currently listed as at-risk either at the state, federal, or international levels.

For example, the cliff chirping frog and Brimley's chorus frog are geographically rare and inhabit areas that will likely be threatened by shifting climate, such as deserts and coasts, respectively.

The team also identified eight additional anuran species that are overlooked at the international and/or federal levels.

Helping overlooked species is also a passion of Mims.

"Climate change is known to threaten many species worldwide, but we often lack tools and approaches to compare the vulnerability of many species at once, particularly for species with limited data available," said Mims, who is also an affiliated faculty member in Fralin Life Science Institute's Global Change Center. "This may leave some species overlooked, making efficient conservation planning and action difficult."

The Rarity and Climate Sensitivity Index tool, developed by the Mims Lab and U.S. Geological Survey partners, uses the concept of rarity to estimate extinction risk. A species that occurs in few places and in a narrow temperature and precipitation zone is more at risk of extinction.

"Our approach provides a useful tool for managers to identify species that may be flying under the conservation radar and serves as an early warning system to identify overlooked, at-risk species," said Mims.

But how does one measure rarity? That's where the benefit of the 140,000 observations come into play. These occurrences hold the key to three important items: what type of animal, as well as when and where the animal was spotted.

Mims said she is optimistic about the scope of DuBose's study and looks forward to building upon its momentum through the continued support from the U.S. Geological Survey.

Equally, DuBose is excited to bring conservation partners into the fold, by using apps to document and share point occurrences, especially if it's a frog or a toad. "In this scenario, everyone wins," said DuBose. "Community scientists who added points to iNaturalist, for instance, can know their data is helping inform species conservation."

More information: Traci P. DuBose et al, Mismatch between conservation status and climate change sensitivity leaves some anurans in the United States unprotected, Biological Conservation (2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2022.109866 Journal information: Biological Conservation
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ESAs Moonlight initiative involves expanding satnav coverage and communication links to the Moon. The first stage involves demonstrating the use of current satnav signals around the Moon. This will be achieved with the Lunar Pathfinder satellite in 2024. The main challenge will be overcoming the limited geometry of satnav signals all coming from the same part of the sky, along with the low signal power. To overcome that limitation, the second stage, the core of the Moonlight system, will see dedicated lunar navigation satellites and lunar surface beacons providing additional ranging sources and extended coverage. Credit: ESA-K Oldenburg

A new era of lunar exploration is on the rise, with dozens of moon missions planned for the coming decade. Europe is in the forefront here, contributing to building the Gateway lunar station and the Orion spacecraftset to return humans to our natural satelliteas well as developing its large logistic lunar lander, known as Argonaut. As dozens of missions will be operating on and around the moon and needing to communicate together and fix their positions independently from Earth, this new era will require its own time.

Accordingly, space organizations have started considering how to keep time on the moon. Having begun with a meeting at ESA's ESTEC technology center in the Netherlands last November, the discussion is part of a larger effort to agree a common 'LunaNet' architecture covering lunar communication and navigation services.

Architecture for joint lunar exploration

"LunaNet is a framework of mutually agreed-upon standards, protocols and interface requirements allowing future lunar missions to work together, conceptually similar to what we did on Earth for joint use of GPS and Galileo," explains Javier Ventura-Traveset, ESA's Moonlight Navigation Manager, coordinating ESA contributions to LunaNet. "Now, in the lunar context, we have the opportunity to agree on our interoperability approach from the very beginning, before the systems are actually implemented."

Timing is a crucial element, adds ESA navigation system engineer Pietro Giordano: "During this meeting at ESTEC, we agreed on the importance and urgency of defining a common lunar reference time, which is internationally accepted and towards which all lunar systems and users may refer to. A joint international effort is now being launched towards achieving this."

Up until now, each new mission to the moon is operated on its own timescale exported from Earth, with deep space antennas used to keep onboard chronometers synchronized with terrestrial time at the same time as they facilitate two-way communications. This way of working will not be sustainable however in the coming lunar environment.

Once complete, the Gateway station will be open to astronaut stays, resupplied through regular NASA Artemis launches, culminating in a human return to the lunar surface, progressing to a crewed base near the lunar south pole. Meanwhile numerous uncrewed missions will also be in placeeach Artemis mission alone will release numerous lunar CubeSatsand ESA will be putting down its Argonaut European Large Logistics Lander.

These missions will not only be on or around the moon at the same time, but they will often be interacting as wellpotentially relaying communications for one another, performing joint observations or carrying out rendezvous operations.

Moonlight satellites on the way

"Looking ahead to lunar exploration of the future, ESA is developing through its Moonlight program a lunar communications and navigation service," explains Wael-El Daly, system engineer for Moonlight. "This will allow missions to maintain links to and from Earth, and guide them on their way around the moon and on the surface, allowing them to focus on their core tasks. But also, Moonlight will need a shared common timescale in order to get missions linked up and to facilitate position fixes."

And Moonlight will be joined in lunar orbit by an equivalent service sponsored by NASAthe Lunar Communications Relay and Navigation System. To maximize interoperability these two systems should employ the same timescale, along with the many other crewed and uncrewed missions they will support. Credit: European Space Agency

Fixing time to fix position

Jorg Hahn, ESA's chief Galileo engineer and also advising on lunar time aspects comments: "Interoperability of time and geodetic reference frames has been successfully achieved here on Earth for Global Navigation Satellite Systems; all of today's smartphones are able to make use of existing GNSS to compute a user position down to meter or even decimetre level.

"The experience of this success can be re-used for the technical long-term lunar systems to come, even though stable timekeeping on the moon will throw up its own unique challengessuch as taking into account the fact that time passes at a different rate there due to the Moon's specific gravity and velocity effects."

Setting global time

Accurate navigation demands rigorous timekeeping. This is because a satnav receiver determines its location by converting the times that multiple satellite signals take to reach it into measures of distancemultiplying time by the speed of light.

All the terrestrial satellite navigation systems, such as Europe's Galileo or the United States' GPS, run on their own distinct timing systems, but these possess fixed offsets relative to each other down to a few billionths of a second, and also to the UTC Universal Coordinated Time global standard.

The replacement for Greenwich Mean Time, UTC is part of all our daily lives: it is the timing used for Internet, banking and aviation standards as well as precise scientific experiments, maintained by the Paris-based Bureau International de Poids et Mesures (BIPM).

The BIPM computes UTC based on inputs from collections of atomic clocks maintained by institutions around the world, including ESA's ESTEC technical center in Noordwijk, the Netherlands and the ESOC mission control center in Darmstadt, Germany.

Designing lunar chronology

Among the current topics under debate is whether a single organization should similarly be responsible for setting and maintaining lunar time. And also, whether lunar time should be set on an independent basis on the moon or kept synchronized with Earth.

The international team working on the subject will face considerable technical issues. For example, clocks on the moon run faster than their terrestrial equivalentsgaining around 56 microseconds or millionths of a second per day. Their exact rate depends on their position on the moon, ticking differently on the lunar surface than from orbit.

"Of course, the agreed time system will also have to be practical for astronauts," explains Bernhard Hufenbach, a member of the Moonlight Management Team from ESA's Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration. "This will be quite a challenge on a planetary surface where in the equatorial region each day is 29.5 days long, including freezing fortnight-long lunar nights, with the whole of Earth just a small blue circle in the dark sky. But having established a working time system for the moon, we can go on to do the same for other planetary destinations."

Finally, to work together properly, the international community will also have to settle on a common 'selenocentric reference frame', similar to the role played on Earth by the International Terrestrial Reference Frame, allowing the consistent measurement of precise distances between points across our planet. Suitably customized reference frames are essential ingredients of today's GNSS systems.

"Throughout human history, exploration has actually been a key driver of improved timekeeping and geodetic reference models," adds Javier. "It is certainly an exciting time to do that now for the moon, working towards defining an internationally agreed timescale and a common selenocentric reference, which will not only ensure interoperability between the different lunar navigation systems, but which will also foster a large number of research opportunities and applications in cislunar space."
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An illustration of Earth as it existed during part of its formation billions of years ago, when an ocean of magma covered the surface of the planet and stretched thousands of miles deep into the core. A typical cell from a simulation conducted by FSU researchers with the relative positions of atoms are shown in the left. Credit: Suraj K. Bajgain / / Lake Superior State University

Early in the formation of Earth, an ocean of magma covered the planet's surface and stretched thousands of miles deep into its core. The rate at which that "magma ocean" cooled affected the formation of the distinct layering within the planet and the chemical makeup of those layers.

Previous research estimated that it took hundreds of million years for that magma ocean to solidify, but new research from Florida State University published in Nature Communications narrows these large uncertainties down to less than just a couple of million years.

"This magma ocean has been an important part of Earth's history, and this study helps us answer some fundamental questions about the planet," said Mainak Mookherjee, an associate professor of geology in the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Science.

When magma cools, it forms crystals. Where those crystals end up depends on how viscous the magma is and the relative density of the crystals. Crystals that are denser are likely to sink and thus change the composition of the remaining magma. The rate at which magma solidifies depends on how viscous it is. Less viscous magma will lead to faster cooling, whereas a magma ocean with thicker consistency will take a longer time to cool.

Like this research, previous studies have used fundamental principles of physics and chemistry to simulate the high pressures and temperatures in the Earth's deep interior. Scientists also use experiments to simulate these extreme conditions. But these experiments are limited to lower pressures, which exist at shallower depths within the Earth. They don't fully capture the scenario that existed in the planet's early history, where the magma ocean extended to depths where pressure is likely to be three times higher than what experiments can reproduce.

To overcome those limitations, Mookherjee and collaborators ran their simulation for up to six months in the high-performance computing facility at FSU as well as at a National Science Foundation computing facility. This eliminated much of the statistical uncertainties in previous work.

"Earth is a big planet, so at depth, pressure is likely to be very high," said Suraj Bajgain, a former post-doctoral researcher at FSU who is now a visiting assistant professor at Lake Superior State University. "Even if we know the viscosity of magma at the surface, that doesn't tell us the viscosity hundreds of kilometers below it. Finding that is very challenging."

The research also helps explain the chemical diversity found within the Earth's lower mantle. Samples of lavathe name for magma after it breaks through the surface of the Earthfrom ridges at the bottom of the ocean floor and volcanic islands like Hawaii and Iceland crystallize into basaltic rock with similar appearances but distinct chemical compositions, a situation that has long perplexed Earth scientists.

"Why do they have distinct chemistry or chemical signals?" Mookherjee said. "Since the magma originates from underneath the Earth's surface, that means the source of the magma there has chemical diversity. How did that chemical diversity begin in the first place, and how has it survived over geological time?"

The starting point of chemical diversity in the mantle can be successfully explained by a magma ocean in the Earth's early history with low viscosity. Less viscous magma led to the rapid separation of the crystals suspended within it, a process often referred to as fractional crystallization. That created a mix of different chemistry within the magma, rather than a uniform composition.

Doctoral student Aaron Wolfgang Ashley from FSU as well as Dipta Ghosh and Bijaya Karki from the Department of Geology and Geophysics at Louisiana State University were co-authors of this paper.

More information: Suraj K. Bajgain et al, Insights into magma ocean dynamics from the transport properties of basaltic melt, Nature Communications (2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35171-y Journal information: Nature Communications
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Salt deserts are among the most extreme and inhospitable places on the planet. Credit: Dr Lucas Goehring

Salt deserts are among the most extreme and inhospitable places on the planet and their bizarre and other-worldly polygon-shaped structures attract hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.

They occur in areas including the Badwater Basin of Death Valley in California and Salar de Uyuni in Chile, where they served as a backdrop for the desert planet Crait in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi."

Now a team involving researchers at Nottingham Trent University and TU Graz in Austria has been able to explain the origin of these patterns and their iconic shape and size. The research is published in the journal Physical Review X.

Previously, it was suspected that the salt crust of the desert dries out and cracks form, around which the patterns grow. Another hypothesis suggested that the salt crust grows continuously and bends due to lack of space, forming the patterns.

Neither of these explanations, however, account for the consistent sizealways one to two metersand the honeycomb shape.

A more plausible explanation has now been provided by researchers, who describe how convection of saline water in the subsurface is responsible for the honeycomb-like formation of the salt patterns.

The constant size of the features and the speed with which the patterns grow can also be attributed to this, they say.

To get to the bottom of this mystery of nature, the team combined the research fields of fluid dynamics from physics and geomorphology from the geosciences and investigated the phenomenon from several directions.

They observed in laboratory experiments how saline water moves in sandy soils and analyzed in numerical simulations the length scale of the patterns under different conditions. In two field studies in California they observed the patterns in nature and collected samples to show that the currents in the subsurface mirror the patterns visible on the surface.

They were the first research group to record in a video how the salt pattern grows. Credit: Technische Universitat Graz

The evidence gathered by the researchers in experiments, simulations and field studies all points to a consistent picture.

The driving mechanism for pattern formation is the convection or circulation of salty water in the soil beneath the salt crust. The salt deserts in which these patterns occur are by no means bone dry and the highly salty groundwater often reaches up to lie directly below the salt crust. In these deserts you'd quickly reach that water digging by hand, although it would be far too salty to drink.

When this brine then evaporates in the hot summer sun, the salt remains. This makes the groundwater directly below the surface saltier, and thus heavier than the fresher water that still lurks below. If this difference in salinity is high enough, the saltier water near the surface begins to sink downwards, while fresher water rises from below.

Similar to hot and cold water circulating by convection in radiators, convection rolls of salty and less salty water form in the subsurface.

A single convection roll would have a circular shape, which maximizes the volume enclosed by the roll while minimizing its circumference. However, when many convection rolls develop next to each other in the ground, they are "squeezed" together and produce hexagonal, honeycomb-like patterns, along the edges of which very salty water sinks down.

In places with a particularly high salt content, salt also crystallizes more on the surface. Over time, the resulting crust forms the raised humps and edges that create the honeycomb salt pattern.

First author Dr. Jana Lasser from TU Graz said, "This is a great example of curiosity-driven basic research. Nature presents us with an obvious and fascinating puzzle that stimulates our curiosity and thereby prompts us to solve iteven without any direct further possibility of application in mind."

In addition to satisfying curiosity, an understanding of the topography of salt deserts helps predict how much mineral-rich dust will be dislodged from the surfaces of salt deserts and swirled into the atmosphere. This dust in turn plays an important role in the formation of clouds and the transport of minerals into the oceans.

Dr. Lucas Goehring, Associate Professor in Physics in Nottingham Trent University's School of Science and Technology, said, "In salt deserts the first thing you seealmost the only thing you seeis an endless patchwork of hexagons and other ordered shapes. Some 50 million tourists have visited these patterns at Death Valley alone, and the fantastic landscape demands an explanation.

"What we've shown is that a simple, plausible explanation is there, but hidden beneath the ground. The surface patterns reflect the slow overturning of salty water within the soil, a phenomenon somewhat like the convection cells that form in a thin layer of simmering water.

"Although beautiful, wind blowing over salt deserts is a major source of atmospheric dust, and our results will help understand processes like this in desert environments."

The study also involved the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization in Gottingen, the University of Southampton, the University of Leeds, the University of Gottingen and Oxford University.

More information: Jana Lasser et al, Salt Polygons and Porous Media Convection, Physical Review X (2023). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevX.13.011025 Why Death Valley Is Full of Polygons: physics.aps.org/articles/v16/31 Journal information: Physical Review X
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Glass fragments found at Elgin Cathedral. Credit: Heritage (2022). DOI: 10.3390/heritage5040180

Two Scottish researchers are trying to piece together part of Scotland's religious past by combining hi-tech science with historical knowledge.

A combination of scientific and historical research is shedding light on the physical and chemical properties of medieval stained glass, as well as its wider religious meaning.

The researchers, Dr. Craig Kennedy from Heriot-Watt University's Institute for Sustainable Building Design, and Dr. Michael Penman, a historian from the University of Stirling, hope they can bring the past to life with the project, and fill in the knowledge gaps created by the Reformation.

They've been supported by two research associates. Helen Spencer, Heriot-Watt, carried out the analysis of glass from Elgin Cathedral, while Tom Turpie, Stirling, contributed research on cults and popular religion in the pre-Reformation era.

Reformation's destruction wiped out church windows

During the Protestant Reformation of 1560, most of Scotland's Catholic churches faced widespread destruction. Items considered idolatrous were targeted and destroyed.

Significantly, stained glass windows were smashed and buried on-site, or otherwise left to decay, and were replaced by austere, plain glass.

In England and across Europe, church windows survived and still bathe visitors in their colorful light. In Scotland, visitors and historians have had to use their imaginations.

That's what Dr. Kennedy and Dr. Penman want to change with their research.

Dr. Michael Penman said, "If you visit the great medieval churches at Canterbury, Westminster or York, the stained glass windows are the main attraction for visitors, alongside the paintings on the walls."

"In medieval times, most of the congregation would have been illiterate, so stained glass and paintings would have been the best way to address them."

"Nowhere else would they have seen anything so colorful and lavish. They were positioned and designed based on when the light would move round the church and shine through to best effect."

"You can step inside these cathedrals and get a real sense of what congregants would have experienced, sitting for worship several times a day, basked in color."

"In Scotland, the Reformation was much more destructive, and absolutely nothing remains in place."

"We want to try and recreate this experience and learn more about medieval daily life by combining historical research with scientific findings."

Recreating church windows from just 16 shards

The team has focused on two churches: Elgin Cathedral and Dunfermline Abbey.

Dr. Craig Kennedy previously worked on a project that tested 30 shards of glass from Elgin Cathedral. They were tested using the university's state-of-the-art electron microscopy facility and X-ray fluorescence to identify the elements present, which in turn revealed the color of the glass, and where it came from.

"Over the last few decades, we've been able to recover shards of medieval church glass during excavations."

"We can narrow down the age of the glass to part of a century, and from there we can use scientific techniques to determine where it was produced. We can work out when it was produced from some decorative patterns."

"We know the colors but so much more. The presence of certain glass tells us where Scotland had trade routes, and who sponsored or supported churches here."

Combining scientific information and historical studies has led to an educated guess on how the chapel windows may have looked at Elgin Cathedral.

"The glass recovered from Elgin was red, brown, blue, green and clear, and many of the clear sections were decorated in the French grisaille style."

"Elgin Cathedral's windows may have had grisaille borders and abstract top lights highlighting saintly figures. As to who those figures were, we have a number of candidates. The Virgin, Thomas Becket, St Columba of Iona and a few others are known to have regional dedications in the northeast of Scotland."

Trying to accurately imagine the stained glass windows of Dunfermline Abbey is proving difficult: only 16 shards of glass have been found.

Dr. Kennedy said, "It is fascinating that a site of such national importance as Dunfermline Abbey has yielded so few glass shards to date. This site, Scotland's national mausoleum, yielded red, white and blue glass samples."

"This site had a highly spiritual connection with St Margaret and we can assume that high-quality narrative glass was at some time installed in the Abbey."

Next steps: A modern day medieval church window

Kennedy and Penman hope that they will win funding to support two researchers, one historical and one scientific, so that they can try to answer a simple question: what did the glass look like?

Using scientific techniques to trace the origins of the physical glass and historical studies to understand the religious stories that were conveyed, an attempt to recreate these lost windows can be made. Further, through engaging with local communities near these sites, they aim to shed a light on a previously unknown part of Scotland's religious history.

They'd like to commission an expert glass artist to create medieval glass to tour Scotland and give people a window to the past.

Penman said, "All the stained glass currently in Scottish churches of a medieval origin is modern, from the 19th and 20th century and often for Protestant congregations. If our research can identify a distinctive Scottish palette and styles for stained and painted medieval church glass, either figurative or decorative, then an artist might be able to recreate the imagery and thus the spiritual and huge emotional effect of such windows on Scottish worshippers before the Reformation."

The findings are published in the journal Heritage.

More information: Craig J. Kennedy et al, Interpreting Medieval Scottish Church Stained Glass Windows: Decoration and Colour in Relation to Liturgy and Worship, Heritage (2022). DOI: 10.3390/heritage5040180
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Polders in the Tai Lake Basin, China, 2022. Polders are an important part of China's water heritage, but they are disappearing. Credit: Yi Qian

As a civilization originating from rivers, China possesses one of the world's largest water resources and has a long history of water management. It is particularly the case in the Yangtze River Delta, where many rivers and lakes connect, requiring a huge amount of effort in their management.

One of the landscapes that resulted from water management is the polder. Known as weitian () in Chinese, polders are reclaimed wetlands enclosed with dykes to be hydrologically separated from the surrounding fluctuating water and then drained manually to become suitable for farming.

In a paper recently published in Planning Perspectives, researchers from China, the U.K. and the Netherlands, advocate that polder landscapes in the basin of Tai Lake, the largest lake in the Yangtze River Delta, need to be considered as a manifestation of China's water heritage ever since they first emerged in the fifth century BCE.

Dr. Yiwen Wang, from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) and the corresponding author of the paper, says, "Polders in this area are some of the oldest landscapes on our planet that have been continuously managed by humans. They are the result of sustained human endeavor to shape the surrounding environment over generations.

"They reflect how Chinese politics, culture, and society have evolved, and represent traditional practices of agriculture and water management as well as socioeconomic systems of rural societies."

Map of the Yangtze River Delta, within which the Tai Lake Basin is characterized by low-lying lands. Credit: Nolf et al., Delta Management in Evolution: A Comparative Review of the Yangtze River Delta and Rhine-Meuse- Scheldt Delta

The study examines how polders in the Tai Lake Basin evolved in China over the past 2,500 years and explains why they represent a type of "continuing landscape," constantly evolving and reflecting the changing needs of our culture and society.

How polders developed over the centuries

The earliest attempt to build centralized large-scale polders began in the fifth century BCE in the Tai Lake Basin when the Wu State sought to control grain production and ensure military supply while in wars with its rival, the Yue State, according to Dr. Wang.

"The practice was extended by the Tang Dynasty when more and more large-scale polders, known as dyked-canal polders or tangpu weitian (), were constructed by the eighth century to feed the immigrants who fled from a military rebellion in the north," she says.

However, in the following Song Dynasty, the centralized polder system was abolished and replaced by a land leasehold system.

The water conservancy map of the Yangtze River Delta and the Tai Lake Basin. Credit: The Map of Seven Prefectures of Southeast China, from Zhang, The Water Conservancy of the Wu District

"State-owned farmlands were leased out to local gentry, who then rented them again to tenant farmers. The privatized approach eventually led to the development of small-size creek polders, or jingbang weitian (), which prevailed until the end of the Yuan Dynasty in the 14th century.

"The small polder system remained dominant during the Ming and Qing dynasties from the 14th to the 20th century. These small polders were known as lake polders or hudang weitian () as they were reclaimed from lakes or swamps. By the early 20th century, they were further compartmented into even smaller islet-like polders, dubbed as fish-scale polders or yulin wei (), for their shapes as seen on aerial photos," Dr. Wang says.

After that, the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949 brought back the large-scale centralized polder system called united polders (lianwei, ) or joint polders (bingwei, ).

Dr. Wang explains, "One of the reasons for the change was flood prevention. In 1954, a destructive flood in the Yangtze River showed that small polders were vulnerable to such natural disasters. The local government called for the merging of small polders or the construction of large ones to make these important agricultural landscapes much more resilient to floods while producing higher yield."

The layout of the Fandian Polder in Suzhou, respectively in 1954 and 1987. Credit: Adapted from Xie, Restructuring Cultural Landscapes in Metropolitan Areas, 103, Zhan et al., The local chronicles of Wu County, 400

Disappearing polders and water heritage

"After China's economic reform in 1978, three factors threatened the polder landscapes that have existed for more than two millennia in the Tai Lake Basinrural industrialization, agricultural modernization and urban encroachment," says Dr. Wang.

"Farmers and villagers were encouraged to work in manufacturing plants and factories built on farmlands and within polders, and the organic forms of polders were replaced by standardized rectangular patterns for industrialized agricultural production.

"Moreover, accelerated urbanization started to occupy more and more rural lands. Vast rural farming lands were converted into urban land use by local authorities for the sake of economic growth."

Dr. Wang states, "According to statistics, built-up areas in the Tai Lake Basin increased from 10% to 24% from 1985 to 2015 due to the three previously mentioned factors. More recently, remaining polders continue disappearing as they are being demolished to make way for rural tourism and recreational development.

"The polder landscapes are very susceptible to development because the low-lying farmlands and waterways don't have distinctive features that make them visible at eye level. Also, as a landscape that adapts and changes over time, they do not fit within our stereotype of 'heritage.'

"However, satellite or drone imagery show that polders were, and still are, an integral part of the Tai Lake Basin."

The researchers believe the polder landscapes are an important part of cultural heritage that should be protected from further loss, and that new interventions, farming methods, and irrigation systems should be integrated into the protection of these "continuing landscapes."

"In this way, the polder landscape in the Tai Lake Basin would continue to display the vernacular past of China," she says.

More information: Yi-Wen Wang et al, The water heritage of China: the polders of Tai Lake Basin as continuing landscape, Planning Perspectives (2022). DOI: 10.1080/02665433.2022.2135131
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This Polystoechotes punctata or giant lacewing was collected in Fayetteville, Arkansas in 2012 by Michael Skvarla, director of Penn State's Insect Identification Lab. The specimen is the first of its kind recorded in eastern North America in over fifty yearsand the first record of the species ever in the state. Credit: Michael Skvarla / Penn State

A giant insect plucked from the facade of an Arkansas Walmart has set historic records. The Polystoechotes punctata (giant lacewing) is the first of its kind recorded in eastern North America in over 50 yearsand the first record of the species ever in the state.

The giant lacewing was formerly widespread across North America, but was mysteriously extirpated from eastern North America by the 1950s. This discovery suggests there may be relic populations of this large, Jurassic-Era insect yet to be discovered, explained Michael Skvarla, director of Penn State's Insect Identification Lab.

Skvarla found the specimen in 2012, but misidentified it and only discovered its true identity after teaching an online course based on his personal insect collection in 2020. He recently co-authored a paper about the discovery in the Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington.

"I remember it vividly, because I was walking into Walmart to get milk and I saw this huge insect on the side of the building," said Skvarla, who was a doctoral student at the University of Arkansas at the time. "I thought it looked interesting, so I put it in my hand and did the rest of my shopping with it between my fingers. I got home, mounted it, and promptly forgot about it for almost a decade."

It wasn't until the COVID-19 pandemic that the giant lacewing would find its time to shine. In the fall of 2020, with the world in lockdown, Skvarla was teaching Entomology 432: Insect Biodiversity and Evolution at Penn State. He taught the lab course via Zoom, with students following along remotely on loaner microscopes, and used his own personal insect collection as specimen samples.

As he went to demonstrate the features of a specimen he had previously labeled an "antlion," Skvarla noticed that the characteristics didn't quite match those of the dragonfly-like predatory insect. Instead, he thought it looked more like a lacewing. A giant lacewing has a wingspan of roughly 50 millimeters, which is quite large for an insect, a clear indicator that the specimen was not an antlion, as Skvarla had mistakenly labeled it. The students got to work comparing featuresand a discovery was made, live on Zoom.

"We were watching what Dr. Skvarla saw under his microscope and he's talking about the features and then just kinda stops," said Codey Mathis, a doctoral candidate in entomology at Penn State. "We all realized together that the insect was not what it was labeled and was in fact a super-rare giant lacewing. I still remember the feeling. It was so gratifying to know that the excitement doesn't dim, the wonder isn't lost. Here we were making a true discovery in the middle of an online lab course."

For additional confirmation, Skvarla and his colleagues performed molecular DNA analyses on the specimen. Since confirming its true identity, Skvarla has deposited the insect safely in the collections of the Frost Entomological Museum at Penn State, where scientists and students will have access to it for further research.

"It was one of those experiences you don't expect to have in a prerequisite lab course," Louis Nastasi, a doctoral candidate studying entomology at Penn State. "Here we were, just looking at specimens to identify them and all of a sudden, out of nowhere, this incredible new record pops up."

Discovery or recovery?

The fact that a giant lacewing was spotted in the urban area of Fayetteville, Arkansas may reveal a larger story about biodiversity and a changing environment, Skvarla explained. He said that explanations vary for the giant lacewing's disappearance from North Americaand it still largely remains a mystery.

Scientists hypothesize the insect's disappearance could be due to the ever-increasing amount of artificial light and pollution of urbanization; suppression of forest fires in eastern North America, if the insects rely on post-fire environments; the introduction of non-native predators such as large ground beetles; and introduction of non-native earthworms, which significantly altered the composition of forest leaf litter and soil.

"Entomology can function as a leading indicator for ecology," Skvarla said. "The fact that this insect was spotted in a region that it hasn't been seen in over half a century tells us something more broadly about the environment."

The researchers analyzed extensive collection records of giant lacewings, including museum holdings and community science submissions, and placed them into a single map to determine their distribution. The records span a huge geographic range, from Alaska to Panama, and include multiple ecoregions in both eastern and western North America. The map revealed the Arkansas specimen was the first spotted in eastern North America in over 50 years.

Fayetteville lies within the Ozark Mountains, which are a suspected biodiversity hotspot, according to Skvarla and his co-author J. Ray Fisher of the Mississippi Entomological Museum at Mississippi State University.

They said that dozens of endemic species, including 68 species of insects, are known from the Ozarks and at least 58 species of plants and animals have highly disjunct populations with representatives in the region. They explain that the area is understudied compared to regions of similar biodiversity, such as the Southern Appalachians.

"This combination makes the region an ideal place for a large, showy insect to hide undetected," they said.

The mystery remains as to how the insect arrived on the exterior of a Walmart. The fact that it was found on the side of a well-lit building at night suggests that it was likely attracted to the lights and may have flown at least a few hundred meters from where it originated, Skvarla explained. "It could have been 100 years since it was even in this areaand it's been years since it's been spotted anywhere near it. The next closest place that they've been found was 1,200 miles away, so very unlikely it would have traveled that far."

The researchers note that they suspect the new specimen represents a rare, surviving eastern population of giant lacewings that evaded detection and extinction.

"Discovery doesn't always hold that same kind of grasp on people that maybe it did 100 years ago," said Nastasi. "But a finding like this really highlights that even in a run-of-the-mill situation, there are still a tremendous number of discoveries to make about insects."

More information: Michael J. Skvarla et al, Rediscovery of Polystoechotes punctata (Fabricius, 1793) (Neuroptera: Ithonidae) in Eastern North America, Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington (2022). DOI: 10.4289/0013-8797.124.2.332
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Aerial photographs of the Antarctic Peninsulas glaciers. Credit: Dr Anna E. Hogg, University of Leeds

Glaciersgiant rivers of moving icealong Antarctica's coastline are flowing faster in the summer because of a combination of melting snow and warmer ocean waters, say researchers.

On average, the glaciers travel at around one kilometer a year. But a new study has found a seasonal variation to the speed of the ice flow, which increases up to 22% in summer when temperatures are warmer. This gives insight into the way climate change could affect the behavior of glaciers and the role they could play in raising sea levels.

Up to now, study of the rugged Antarctic peninsula has been limited because of the difficulties scientists face getting to the glaciers to conduct fieldwork. But advances in satellite technology are revealing new insights into the speed at which the glaciers are moving and draining water into the surrounding ocean.

Antarctic peninsula and global sea levels

The Antarctic peninsula is the largest reservoir of frozen water on Earth. It is estimated that between 1992 and 2017, melt water from the glaciers increased global sea levels by around 7.6 mm. How that may change in the future is one of the big uncertainties in modeling climate change.

A team of researchers, led by scientists at the University of Leeds, has used more than 10,000 satellite images, taken above the Antarctic peninsula between 2014 and 2021, to understand how the flow of glaciers into the waters around the Antarctic changes during colder and warmer periods.

Aerial photographs of the Antarctic Peninsulas glaciers. Credit: Dr Anna E. Hogg, University of Leeds

Ben Wallis, a doctoral researcher and first author of the study, said, "One of the important findings of this study is that it reveals how sensitive glaciers in Antarctica are to the environment. We have known for a long time that glaciers in Greenland have a seasonal behavior, but it is only now that satellite data has shown similar behavior in Antarctica."

The paper is published today (Feb. 27) in the journal Nature Geoscience.

Antarctic peninsula

The Antarctic peninsula is the most northern and warmest region of Antarctica. It has a 1,000 km long mountainous spine, similar to the length of the east coast of Great Britain, and is home to a rich marine ecosystem of seals, penguins and whales.

Along the west coast of the peninsula, the glaciers drain from the ice sheet directly into the Southern Ocean.

Map of ice speed in the study area on the west cost of the Antarctic Peninsula. Credit: Copernicus, International Bathymetric Chart of the Southern Ocean (IBCSO), Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica (REMA), British Antarctic Survey (BAS), Ben Wallis, University of Leeds_

Analysis of the satellite data showed that the glacier speed-up occurs in summer as snow melts and the temperature of the waters in the Southern Ocean rise. It is thought that water from the melting snow acts as a lubricant between the ice sheet and the underlying rock. As a result, friction is reduced and the speed at which the glaciers slide increases.

In addition, the warmer waters of the Southern Ocean erode the front of the moving ice, which reduces the buttressing forces it exerts to resist the ice flow.

Dr. Anna Hogg, associate professor in the Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science at Leeds and an author of the paper, said, "The Antarctic peninsula has seen some of the most rapid warming of any region on Earth. Continuing work like this will help glaciologists monitor how quickly change is occurring, enabling accurate assessments of how Earth's ice will respond to climate change."

Earth observation from space

The European Space Agency and European Commission Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite, whose data was used in this study, provides weekly monitoring around the whole coastline of Antarctica. This time lapse shows the of the flow of Breguet Glacier, one of the 105 glaciers that feature in the study. This animation is made with Synthetic Aperture Radar images, the same images that scientists use to measure how fast the ice is flowing. Credit: Ben Wallis, University of Leeds/ESA

The satellite is fitted with synthetic aperture radar which can see through clouds, enabling measurements of the glaciers to be taken both day and night.

Craig Donlon of the European Space Agency said, "This study highlights how high-resolution satellite images can help us monitor how the environment is changing in remote regions. Future satellites, such as the family of Copernicus Sentinel expansion missions, promise to bring enhanced continuity and capabilities that will spearhead further insight into the characteristics and processes governing ice mass balance and sea-level rise."

More information: Benjamin Wallis, Widespread seasonal speed-up of west Antarctic Peninsula glaciers from 2014 to 2021, Nature Geoscience (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41561-023-01131-4. www.nature.com/articles/s41561-023-01131-4 Journal information: Nature Geoscience
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New research led by FSU Professor of Biological Science Don Levitan shows that the loss of these algae-free areas due to the sea urchin die-off is threatening the existence of the corals that populate Caribbean reefs. Credit: Rachel Best/Florida State University.

The sustained loss of a once-abundant species of sea urchin in the Caribbean could also result in the functional extinction of diverse coral species from the region's reefs, according to new research from a Florida State University team.

The urchin species Diadema antillarum has long been considered the most important grazer in the Caribbean, feeding on algae that would otherwise overrun the reef and make it difficult for coral to thrive. But two mortality events over the past 40 years have caused much of that urchin population to die off.

New research led by FSU Professor of Biological Science Don Levitan shows that the loss of these algae-free areas due to the sea urchin die-off is threatening the existence of the corals that populate Caribbean reefs.

The work is being published this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Levitan, along with collaborator Peter Edmunds, a professor at California State University Northridge, has been collecting data on D. antillarum since his first research trip to St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, in 1983, recording population density of the species and tracking it through mass mortality events in 1983-1984 and in 2022.

"Our research provides the most complete long-term data set that covers this 40-year period and the two mortality events," Levitan said. "Using Edmunds's annual data on coral abundance and community structure, we saw this almost black and white image of how the reefs had changed. Because of this extensive data set, we will be able to compare the trajectory of future populations of this species and be able to compare it to the first mortality event."

In 1983, St. John's shoreline was packed with a poisonous spine canopy of D. antillarum, but six months later an unknown water pathogen wiped out 99% of the species throughout its range in the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico and the Western Atlantic Ocean. Consequentially, Levitan observed algae concentrations increase by 3,000% at the research sites.

"The site went from a reef that was scrubbed clean of algae to one that was completely overgrown with algae in just six months because of the removal of one urchin species," Levitan said. "Coral abundances decreased tremendously throughout the Caribbean as well."

D. antillarum population densities at the surveyed sites increased 10-fold over the next eight years but did not recover further. Only small pockets of D. antillarum survived in shallow waters, grazing and providing algae-free zones for coral larvae to attach, establish themselves in the reef and reproduce. That same year, coral cover throughout the Caribbean was approaching the lowest values recorded in modern times. Urchins previously appeared at a rate of about 15 per square meter but were reduced to about 1 per meter.

In 2022, a second mass mortality event swept the U.S. Virgin Islands and the many areas of the Caribbean, reducing the already sparse D. antillarum population by an additional 98.4%.

Levitan and his team measured D. antillarum abundance and body size throughout established sites in the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park to determine patterns of individual growth rates and to identify the establishment of new coral in existing communities and estimate coral mortality. The team also examined an abundance of juvenile coral within and beyond the algal-free zones D. antillarum occupied.

Daniel Thornhill, the NSF program director of biological oceanography, praised the research team for its dedication to collecting data over such a long period of time.

"Levitan and Edmunds' work highlights the tremendous value of long-term data and sustained, place-based research," Thornhill said. "Nearly 40 years after the first urchin die-off, there had been hopeful pockets of urchin recovery. The recent die-off represents a major setback for both urchin populations and the prospects for Caribbean coral reef recovery."

Levitan and his team are hoping to leverage this nearly half-century of data to gain an understanding of how these mortality events will affect D. antillarum population density in 2023 and the futureincluding the pace, or even the likelihood, of recovery in future yearsas well as the corresponding impact of the algae-free zones on the diversity in coral species in reefs at St. John and across the Caribbean.

More information: Don R. Levitan et al, Sea urchin mass mortalities 40 y apart further threaten Caribbean coral reefs, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2218901120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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A rendering of human serine racemase, an enzyme with links to maladies ranging from schizophrenia to ischemic stroke. Credit: Protein Data Bank in Europe / Journal of the American Chemical Society / Scott Schrage | University Communication and Marketing

If serine racemase is the magician that for decades disguised its trickinverting an amino acid to assist learning and memory but also levitate risks of Alzheimer's and strokechemists just snuck a high-res camera behind the curtain.

Led by the University of NebraskaLincoln's David Berkowitz and Stephany Ramos de Dios, the team recently revealed a technique capable of recording the enzyme in action, taking notes on its performance, and screening for inhibitors that could keep it from doing harm.

Like many other amino acids, L-serine can often be found residing in the biological nanomachines, or proteins, that are central to the business of running an organism. Around the turn of the 21st century, researchers realized that its mirror imageD-serine, what chemists consider the "opposite hand" of its standard L-configurationwas also at play in people. That made it the first and, to date, the only well-described amino acid of its mirrored kind in human biology.

"If you interviewed all chemistry Ph.D.s across the United States, and you asked them, 'True or false? Human biology involves only L-amino acids, and no D-amino acids,' most would say 'True,'" said Berkowitz, Willa Cather Professor of chemistry at Nebraska. "That's because this is still a fairly new discovery. We're just at the beginning of this field."

The relative obscurity of D-serine belies the emerging evidence of its importance as a signaling mechanism employed by neurons, the cellular messengers of the brain. Recent research suggests that below-average levels of D-serine correspond with schizophrenia. Its overexpression, meanwhile, may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases and cell damage associated with ischemic stroke.

"We don't really have tools to study that," Berkowitz said. "We're trying to give our community those tools. We want a dimmer switch, so you can just dial in the level of (D-serine) activity and study the biology. Small molecules are the best dimmer switches to use to control nature's catalysts.

"There are still a lot of biological questions about the role of D-serine and what happens when you elevate or decrease it."

Those early findings and resulting questions have naturally drawn attention to the enzyme, human serine racemase, capable of catalyzing the flip from L-serine to D-. The spotlight grew brighter just last year, when researchers found that the other reaction catalyzed by serine racemasethe conversion of L-serine to a compound called pyruvateappears to be linked with colorectal cancer.

Now, Berkowitz and six members of his team have developed the first technique that can simultaneously measure both of the enzyme's biologically relevant reactions, allowing users to "watch the chemistry happening in remarkable detail."

To do it, the team relied on the Department of Chemistry's Martha Morton, an expert in nuclear magnetic resonance. Better known as NMR, the technique exposes the nuclei of certain atoms to magnetic fields. By reading the electromagnetic responses of those nuclei, NMR can measure their molecular environment and, by extension, the chemical reactions in which they take part.

So before kickstarting the two chemical reactions with human serine racemase, Morton, Ramos de Dios and doctoral student Jared Hass strategically tagged two atoms in L-serine with carbon-13 isotopes provided by Cambridge Isotope Laboratories. Unlike 99% of the carbon atoms found in nature, carbon-13 isotopes feature a nucleus detectable by NMR.

"This is where organic chemistry meets analytical chemistry," said Berkowitz, who also directs the Division of Chemistry at the National Science Foundation in Washington, D.C. "The organic chemists can surgically place the carbon-13 label in some desired molecule, in a desired position, and when you read the NMR, everything else is pretty much silent, and we're looking only at those two reactions."

Sure enough, the researchers saw the enzyme catalyzing the removal of a hydrogen atom from one side of the serine, followed by its attachment on the opposite sidethe mirror-image transition of L- to D-. At the same time, they watched it eject a water molecule and ultimately yield pyruvate. In the process, the team verified that the enzyme actually produces pyruvate substantially faster than it does D-serine. Credit: University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Even faster, though, was a reaction never before seen by any of the research groups, from the Czech Republic to the United Kingdom, that had begun studying the enzymea reaction exchanging the hydrogen in L-serine for deuterium. That normally dormant reaction was "lit up," Berkowitz said, by attaching the carbon-13 labels and performing the chemistry in what's sometimes called heavy water, which contains two deuterium atoms in place of the two lighter hydrogen atoms that typically accompany an oxygen.

"All these pathways start from the same common intermediate (molecule)," Hass said. "So once you establish that intermediate, you can kind of see which avenue the reaction is going to go."

The team was far from finished. Hass joined doctoral alumni Ramos de Dios and Danielle Grahamwhose efforts would help land them the department's Cromwell and Hamilton awards, respectivelyin assembling a roster of 1,020 chemical compounds. Alongside Nivesh Kumar, a postdoctoral researcher in Berkowitz's lab, the researchers then used the NMR-based technique to test whether any of the compounds might bind to the human serine racemase and, in doing so, inhibit the enzyme's ability to turn L-serine into D-. While the team identified multiple families of inhibitors, one of the 1,020 in particular stood out.

Though that one specific inhibitorand the family of others Kumar built around itbinds as tightly to the enzyme as any drug-like compound reported so far, the search for candidates will continue, Berkowitz said. Still, early results suggest that the team's most promising candidate affixes itself to a site on serine racemase that would allow it to contend with fewer competitors for the enzyme's real estate, Hass said.

"You should have a finer-tuned modulation of activity," Hass said, "so your dimmer switch is a lot more precise."

More importantly, Berkowitz said, their efforts demonstrated the new platform's ability to facilitate the hunt for, and evaluate the performance of, potential pharmaceutical-grade inhibitors.

"We can (ideally) make inhibitors of this enzyme and then dial them in at different concentrations," he said. "All kinds of biological readouts could be measured as a function of dialing up or dialing down this enzyme. Nobody can really do that yet, including ourselves. But we're working toward that."

The researchers still weren't done. To demonstrate the generality of the approach, Hass and Aina Antony, the newest doctoral student in Berkowitz's lab, tried applying it to another enzyme that represents a key target of the group's ongoing work. Like serine racemase, that enzyme needs a form of vitamin B6 to help it catalyze chemical reactions.

"We did the experiment, and we got great results," Antony said of those efforts, which would help earn the study a place in the Journal of the American Chemical Society.

Of all the chemical reactions in biology that have to be kickstarted by enzymes, roughly 4% of them are catalyzed specifically by vitamin B6-dependent enzymes. To the extent that those enzymes behave in similar ways, the team said, the platform can likely track the reactions spurred by many of them, too.

Berkowitz underscored that all of itthe development of the technique, the demonstration of its ability to track the serine racemase reactions, to screen for inhibitors, to do the same in other enzymeswas possible only through the entire team. And its diversity, whether across three subdisciplines of chemistry or the expanses of the United States, the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, should not be overlooked, he said.

"There's another story here," Berkowitz said, "about what kinds of partnerships the university catalyzes. I think Nebraskans are very proud of their university. But I don't think most Nebraskans realize how international (it is) and how broadly represented the country is on our campus. This project is a microcosm of that."

"That's the beauty of the scientific mix," Kumar said. "Everyone doesn't share the same culture or language, but we come and sit and do the same science, with the same motivation."

More information: Stephany M. Ramos de Dios et al, Information-Rich, Dual-Function 13C/2H-Isotopic Crosstalk NMR Assay for Human Serine Racemase (hSR) Provides a PLP-Enzyme "Partitioning Fingerprint" and Reveals Disparate Chemotypes for hSR Inhibition, Journal of the American Chemical Society (2023). DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c12774 Journal information: Journal of the American Chemical Society
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Researchers used a green laser on a jar filled with water to show how the water moves and how contaminants clump together. Credit: Texas A&M Engineering

Water is a vital resource, and clean water is a necessity. Texas A&M University researchers have developed a new technique to monitor one of the key processes of purifying water in real time.

Raw water contains microscopic pathogens that are too small to remove during water and wastewater treatment easily. Chemicals are added to form large clumps called flocs, which are easily filtered out. Flocculation is the process used in water treatment to remove suspended particles from the water.

"Coagulant chemicals need to be added to purify drinking water and remove turbidity (cloudiness) and microbes that are too small to be visible to the naked eye," said Dr. Kuang-An Chang, professor in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Texas A&M.

But it is crucial to properly mix the water and chemicals so the pathogens properly clump. If mixing is low, clumps won't form. If mixing is too intense, clumps will form but quickly break apart.

The new method simultaneously monitors the size and shape of the clumps and the mixing intensity in a single step, in real time, allowing for more accurate measurements. The value of the research lies in the fact that mixing is one of the most energy-consuming processes during water and wastewater purification.

The results of this study were recently published in the journal ACS ES&T Engineering and featured on the cover of its February issue.

"We developed a brand-new technique to non-intrusively monitor the mixing so that we can precisely control it, quantify heterogeneities within the reactor and potentially optimize it to create flocs of desired characteristics while simultaneously minimizing energy consumption," he said.

This first-of-its-kind technique can be used to improve flocculation, meaning successfully removing contaminants by growing large enough clumps while minimizing the energy used.

"All previous research did this in two steps," Chang said. "In the old approach, first, artificial particles of known characteristics would be added to monitor mixing. Then, a second experiment would be done with 'identical' settings and the actual clumps would be monitored."

"We essentially halved the workload and improved precision because there are always statistical differences any time you do two experiments."

This interdisciplinary project was a collaboration between Chang, who focuses on fluid dynamics, and Dr. Shankar Chellam, professor of civil and environmental engineering and A.P. and Florence Wiley Professor III, who focuses on water/wastewater treatment.

Three graduate students performed the experimental work and associated numerical analysis: Kaleisha Miller, Kyungho Kim and Wei-Liang Chuang, who is now an assistant professor at National Sun Yat-sen University in Taiwan.

More information: Kaleisha Miller et al, Simultaneous In Situ Characterization of Turbulent Flocculation and Reactor Mixing Using Image Analysis and Particle Image Velocimetry in Unison, ACS ES&T Engineering (2022). DOI: 10.1021/acsestengg.2c00348
QUEENSBURY  Matthew Taormino of Queensbury was honored with Kiwanis Internationals New York District Distinguished President award at the service organization's annual conference in Albany on Feb. 11.

Taormino served as Kiwanis Club of Glens Falls president for 2021-2022.

During his term, he began and continues to edit the clubs monthly newsletter. Also, the club grew with six new members, and Taormino chaired the clubs popular Duck Race and served on the first-year committee that developed the Spirits in the Trees event. In addition, he serves on the Kiwanis Club Foundation board and is a Key Club (Kiwanis high school leadership program) adviser.

He joined Kiwanis in 2012 and has been influential in determining and participating in club activities and community participation. He also serves on the board of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce and has served as general manager of the Dunhams Bay Resort, Lake George, for the past several years.
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A fire was reported on the 2700 block of Falcon Court in Hamilton Township at about 10 a.m. Sunday.

Photographs of the fire were posted on community Facebook pages with hundreds of people expressing their concern with reactions and comments. Messages left at several local fire companies and departments and other first responders were not immediately returned.

Scan AtlanticCity first reported the fire.

Mayor Carl Pitale said he had visited the scene of the fire at 11:30 a.m. He met with the owner and resident of the impacted property, he said. At that time, Pitale added, there was no indication anyone had been injured in the fire.

Pitale said about 50 firefighters from multiple area fire companies were on the scene. Pitale thanked them and the other first responders. He said they had saved a pet hamster from a property adjacent to the fire.

Great job to all of the volunteer firefighters, police, rescue, HTMUA, SJ Gas, American Red Cross and other helpers. A hamster was rescued from an adjoining condo, putting smiles on the (owners) faces! Pitale said on Facebook.
UPPER TOWNHSIP  Emergency responders could not find an address in Ocean View for a medical emergency, responding to a 911 call.

That was because the house was in Upper Township. Ocean View is part of Dennis Township.

The call took place years ago, according to Upper Township Mayor Jay Newman, who related the story in a recent interview.

The person survived after help arrived, he said. But close to 20 precious minutes were lost in the response.

The ironic thing is, once they got it to the right crew, the ambulance was there in about four minutes, Newman said.

The issue was that the ZIP code on the callers address was listed as a different community, according to Newman.

Upper Township includes five ZIP codes. One of those, 08270, is for Woodbine but includes sections of Upper Township, while another is for Ocean View in Dennis Township.

According to Newman, that has created several problems.

Newman called public safety priority number one but said there are other issues, including confusion over real estate contracts. Several years ago, the township sought to have a single ZIP code for the entire municipality but was unsuccessful.

These 3 grocery stores pump up real estate values, study says Having a grocery store near ones house is often a sought-after perk, but what kind of grocery store is nearby can actually affect a homes price. A national study found homes near a Trader Joes were worth $987,923 on average.

This year, hes planning to try again.

According to officials with the U.S. Postal Service, ZIP codes are about delivering the mail, not community identity.

The ZIP code system was created and designed to provide an efficient postal distribution and delivery network, said Xavier Hernandez, a postal service spokesperson. ZIP code assignments are therefore closely linked to factors such as mail volume, delivery area size, geographic location and topography, but not necessarily linked to municipalities or perceived community boundaries. The general stability of boundaries is essential to prompt and accurate distribution of mail.

Newman said he has heard similar answers before, and hes not buying it.

The big wigs at the post office poo-poo everything, Newman said.

Whether the Postal Service likes it or not, ZIP codes are routinely used for community identification.

In addition to emergency response, ZIP codes are used by insurance companies and can influence housing assessments and grant funding.

Russell Barham, a Realtor, said he has had situations where mortgage or insurance companies insisted on certificates or forms from neighboring municipalities when the property is in Woodbine.

I personally have gotten into extreme fights with either lenders or attorneys that insist that their client is in a certain municipality when its not, and Im right, Barham said.

For instance, he cited a property in Palermo, a section of Upper Township, but the contracts listed it as being in Dennis Township.

Other townships in Cape May County have not had the same experience. Lower Township Mayor Frank Sippel said he has not heard of any issues with ZIP codes, while Middle Township Mayor Tim Donohue said there are some areas in which ZIP codes overlap with other communities but there have not been any problems.

He said its never been an issue as far as he knows.

Upper Township Committee again seeking ZIP code consolidation after misdirected 911 call UPPER TOWNSHIP  Upper Township Committee members said last week that they would ask the Uni

In Whitesboro, one of the longtime communities within Middle Township, some residents have expressed concern after getting a Cape May Court House ZIP code, fearing losing some part of Whitesboros community identity.

The opening of a new post office in Whitesboro in 2020 indicated the community ZIP code was likely to remain.

A listing of ZIP codes in Egg Harbor Township in Atlantic County shows different sections of that township fall within 10 different ZIP codes. But most of the township is within the 08234 ZIP code. According to Newman, that municipality successfully sought to consolidate its ZIP codes decades ago.

Officials in Egg Harbor Township did not respond to a request for comment.

In some instances, there can be several ZIP codes within a single town, if the volume of mail justifies it. In some cases, a ZIP code will designate a specific military base, or even a single building if that building receives enough mail.

According to Newman, the overlapping ZIP codes in Upper Township can mean inaccurate assessments for real estate, saying a Woodbine address could equate to a reduction in value compared to an Upper Township address.

Upper Township Committee again seeking ZIP code consolidation after misdirected 911 call UPPER TOWNSHIP  Upper Township Committee members said last week that they would ask the Uni

Thats not a knock on our friends and neighbors in Woodbine, believe me. Its just the way it is, Newman said.

State law impacts

A state law requires a contribution to the local firefighters relief fund through the New Jersey Firefighters Association based on the proceeds of insurance policies written by out-of-state companies, Newman said. Those funds are distributed by ZIP code, not by address, he said.

Newman outlined the issue at a recent Township Committee meeting, and said he plans to renew a push to see the ZIP code changed.

There is an application process that municipalities and community groups can follow to request a new ZIP code, said Hernandez, the postal service spokesperson.

The first step is for a municipal or community leader to submit a letter to the New Jersey district manager for the Postal Service, he said.

The ZIP codes review process emphasizes comprehensive, long-term planning when reviewing requests and making a determination on how to proceed. Depending on the recommendation  approval, denial or an alternative solution  there are more steps including executive review, customer surveys and an appeals process, Hernandez said.

Newman said Upper Township has already undertaken those efforts, with no progress. He said the township had previously looked to former U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo, and will now turn to U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew, R-2nd.

A spokesperson for Van Drews office said he had not yet heard from Upper Township on the matter, but that he always tries to help towns in his district any way he can.

According to Newman, the post office for Marmora was built to handle all of Upper Township.

The Marmora ZIP code is 08223. There are post offices in the Strathmere section, 08248, and in Tuckahoe, 08250, but those are not delivery offices. Patrons come by to pick up their mail in the post office. ZIP code 08230 is in Dennis Township and 08270 is in Woodbine, but each also includes Upper Township street addresses. In some cases, there may be the same street name in more than one community, meaning there could be the same address, and the same ZIP Code, for more than one address.

The Postal Service introduced the Zone Improvement Plan, or ZIP, in 1963, a five-digit code showing where packages and letters were heading. A later addition of four more digits further specified the location.
MIDDLE TOWNSHIP  Emma Moody has not yet started her career, but she is already looking forward to retiring and doing as she pleases.

The Rio Grande resident, a senior at Cape May County Technical High School, was interviewed above the din of Thomas Jacksons welding class.

According to Johnson, his seniors are preparing for certification this spring, and recruiters and union representatives already have been by.

Someone with a welding certificate is in a strong position to find a good job, especially in the current market, Jackson said. Moody has no doubt about her prospects, but her plans are wide open, at least until she reaches her planned early retirement.

Ill go where the money calls, she said. Shed like to end up in Michigan.

Her classmate Donald Seitz, of Goshen, came to the school with some welding experience from his fathers automotive business. Also a senior, he is setting himself up with his own welding business, getting a truck and the equipment lined up while still in school.

Both Goshen and Rio Grande are sections of Middle Township, but enrollment at the school is open to students from all 16 municipalities in Cape May County.

School officials say the programs in marine sciences, culinary arts, plumbing, construction and other careers offer students an opportunity to make a year-round living in Cape May County, where many jobs are seasonal.

Both students spoke highly of Jackson.

For Seitz, putting in a couple of hours welding at the school is a great way to spend time.

There arent any other welders in Moodys family, she said, adding that her mother was nervous at first about her taking it up. Now that she has seen her daughters skill, she feels better about the potential career.

So how dangerous is Jacksons classroom?

Its the most dangerous classroom in this school. You can die doing this, Jackson said, with a hint of a gleam in his eye.

That drew a visible wince from Jamie Moscony, the district superintendent who was also in the classroom.

The students participate in extensive safety training long before they ever pick up a tool, Jackson added. They are required to wear protective equipment at all times in the classroom, and he keeps a close eye on them as well.

Moscony adds that students in a variety of programs also receive safety training, whether they are using tools in the carpentry program or knives and stoves in the culinary classroom.

There are close to 560 students in the high school, which is undergoing an expansion project set to be completed in March. Another phase expected to begin next spring will add more classrooms, along with a renovated hotel and restaurant for training and a new media center.

That project is set to break ground this spring, with more work coming in a later phase, including an esports arena, medical and trade areas and a renovated boathouse, among additional work.

The cornerstone on the oldest section of the building says 1969. It became a full-time high school in 1993, retaining the technical focus.

Jackson was a student at the school before his welding career. Seitz said his father was a classmate. Jackson used to teach an adult welding class as well, but now he just works with the high school students.

He has 10 classes, each limited to 10 students, running from beginner to intermediate to advanced. All the classes are at capacity.

In addition to the career potential, the students and Jackson said welding is interesting to learn.

Theres a whole lot of ooh, aah in here, was how Jackson put it, with sparks flying and students working with tools using extremely high heat. Steel melts at more than 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

At one point, Jackson said, welding classes were entirely male, but that is no longer the case. He said the classes are now about 20% female, and added that the women are usually the first to be offered jobs.

Moody said she has never felt excluded in the welding classroom.

Mr. Jackson would never let that happen, she said. But she added that her classmates support and help each other.

A certified welder in New Jersey will make an average of $38.73 an hour, according to the jobs site Indeed. That number can increase based on the level of certification, Jackson said.

He said he prides himself on his students success.

All of my students have jobs lined up, Jackson said.

He mentioned one student working with NASAs Artemis 2, set to take four astronauts to circle the moon next year. I have kids from Alaska to Israel at this point.

He taught adult classes for 22 years, and this is his 16th teaching high school students. The program used to train students for the first level of welding certification, but is now up to the third level, covering more advanced techniques as well as opening more opportunities.

Moscony added that welding experience can be an important asset in multiple careers in the area, such as working with the amusement parks, the ferry and and the fishing industry, as well as in construction and related fields.
DR ROHIT SHOOL Robotic Laparoscopic Surgeon and Endoscopist, Healing Hands Clinic

Robotic surgery is safer, minimally invasive

Dr Rohit Shool, Robotic Laparoscopic Surgeon and Endoscopist, Healing Hands Clinic answers some of your queries about robotic surgery, gallstones and appendicitis.

I am a student of biomedical engineering and looking for robotic surgery for my father's incisional hernia. He is hypertensive and on blood thinners for the past five years.

Robotic surgery is excellent for complex procedures that require a high amount of precision. Sometimes, highly complex surgeries are not possible in the traditional way. In such cases, Robotic surgery might be the only option because it provides the flexibility that is required for the surgery to be completed. Robotic surgery enables surgeons to thoroughly examine the area that is being operated on. This gives a clearer view to the surgeons which is highly beneficial for them to precisely conduct the operation as some things are not clear to the naked eye. Moreover, it gives more control over what is being done.

The advantages of robotic surgery:

 For the surgeon, it allows the surgery to be done with precision which was not possible before. This is why robotic surgery is great for delicate surgeries as well.

 In certain critical locations, robotic surgery is better because the robotic arms can reach places that are difficult for the surgeon's hands to reach. Robotic surgery means faster recovery time for patients. They can get back to work much faster as compared to surgery done with traditional methods.

 The risk of infection is much lesser in robotic surgery and it is comparatively less painful.

 Since the surgery is minimally invasive, there is less damage and the scars are smaller.

 Healing hands clinic is known to provide state of art treatments. Dr Rohit Shool specialises in robotic surgeries. Based on the physical examination and a few diagnostic tests surgery can be planned as per the patient's convenience.

My mother is 48 years old and has been complaining of pain in her stomach for the past 2 months. It seems to be radiating towards the right side. Our family physician diagnosed appendicitis and asked us to take a surgical opinion. Is surgery the only solution? Please guide me about the safest and most advanced treatment available.

The appendix is a small, thin pouch about 5-10cm long. It's connected to the large intestine. A blockage in the lining of the appendix results in infection and is the likely cause of appendicitis. Removing it is not harmful. The bacteria multiply rapidly, causing the appendix to become inflamed, swollen and filled with pus. If not treated promptly, the appendix can rupture. A burst appendix can lead to infection in the belly called peritonitis which can be very serious. Dr Rohit Shool is a specialist in laparoscopic surgery with a rich experience of over a decade. Based on his findings and a few tests, surgery is performed. At Healing Hands Clinic, we ensure only the best service for all patients. The latest 3D 4K vision laparoscopic surgeries with the Rubina system have led to quick and smooth recovery with only one or two days' stay at the hospital.

I have been suffering from gallstones for the past 2 years. For mild pain I took medications. There is severe bloating on some days. What can I do for the stones to dissolve on their own? I am scared of surgery.

Gallstones don't go away on their own. If they start to hurt or cause other symptoms like vomiting or nausea, you are advised to remove your gallbladder. This type of surgery is called a cholecystectomy. It's one of the most common surgeries doctors perform. With the advancement in the surgical field, the latest imaging technology (3D 4K vision) provides an optimal image/ view. Hence it is helpful to receive additional information that increases the precision of the surgical technique as compared to open surgeries. Healing Hands Clinic is a house for skilled surgeons. There are no major cuts involved in laparoscopic surgery. As the hospitalization period is short, one can resume their duties within a day or two.
Area spread across hundreds of acres on the wetland site was witnessing illegal cultivation

After the UP administration initiated a crackdown against illegal farming activity on Haiderpur Wetland, the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) has threatened to launch an agitation against the uprooting of farmers.

The 6,908-hectare Ramsar site (a wetland site designated to be of international importance) lies within the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. The area spread across hundreds of acres on the wetland site was witnessing illegal cultivation.

Muzaffarnagar district magistrate Arvind Bangari formed a joint committee of various departments to initiate action.

BKU district president of Muzaffarnagar, Yogesh Sharma, said that those being evacuated are landless farmers who have taken loans. We will launch a massive agitation if this uprooting is not stopped. We will hand over the land once harvest is complete, he said. IANS
Delhi DCM joins probe, accused of destroying proof and being mastermind

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday began questioning Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia in the excise policy scam, and was confronting him with evidence.

Sisodia joined the probe at around 11.10 am and was being grilled by a team of elite officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI.

Sources claimed that he is being questioned about the documentary, electronic and digital evidence which they have gathered during the probe in the scam.

He has been accused of destroying evidence and being the mastermind of the Excise Policy scam. We have got some evidence this time and his questioning was a must, the source said. Sisodia was earlier asked to appear before the CBI on February 19, but he had sought deferment of his questioning, citing the ongoing budget exercise. IANS

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SECTION 144 IMPOSED AT AGENCY HEADQUARTERS

The Delhi Police has imposed CrPC 144 in and around areas of CBI headquarters to avoid unwanted gathering and to ensure law and order situations.

AAP leaders blocked The police said that despite the imposition of section 144 CrPC the AAP workers and leaders were staging protests and blocking the traffic movement due to which they had to detain around 50 of them. IANS
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released new regulations that will allow foreign universities and educational institutions to open campuses in India while also giving them control over setting their own education costs and a 90-day approval period. Considering input from all stakeholders, the final standards will be announced later. It is expected that the entry of the institutions, which will also have autonomy regarding admission procedures and pricing structures, will improve the depth of the higher-education industry in India and open up additional chances for Indian students. In turn, the colleges will have access to a large and growing market in one of the world's major economies that are growing the fastest.

Let's see what the industry players have to say about the recent announcement.

According to Mr. Aman Mittal, Vice President, of Lovely Professional University said, This is a great development and we are glad to see the provision of NEP being actioned by the government. Such enhanced scope would pave a new era for the education sector in India and would contribute towards reducing brain drain as every year lakhs of talents leave their homeland. In the same breath, I would also say that the government should create a level playing field for both Indian and foreign institutes. The provision of working in India should not be different for foreign universities in comparison to that of Indian universities. Also, from the cultural exchange standpoint, such avenues contribute toward value virtues. Lovely Professional University has collaborated with top universities across the globe and also many partners have shown interest in working with us toward campus opening here, in India. We are excited about this new direction by the Ministry of Education and will be studying the draft regulations in more detail. Further, I will soon be sharing our recommendations with the committee.

"India is a very big country with a very big number of students pursuing their higher education goals. There is no need for concern for the current top universities because there will be healthy competition.

Mr. Ritesh Kumar, Country Lead, Wiley in India said,The University Grants Commission (UGC) in India has recently announced that foreign universities will now be able to establish campuses in the country. This is a significant development that is expected to be beneficial for both foreign universities and Indian students. By allowing universities to set up campuses in India, Indian students will have the opportunity to study at world-renowned institutions right in their own country, while international universities will be able to share their knowledge, resources, and expertise with students in India.

The move is in line with the goal of internationalization of higher education outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and is likely to make India a more attractive destination for students from around the world. As a global leader in research and education, Wiley welcomes the initiative aimed at revolutionizing Indias education sector. With our strong commitment towards key impact areas- enabling discovery, powering education, and shaping workforces, we are excited for the new opportunities and avenues that will be available to the Indian students in the future.

"Overall, the consumer gains from that. Institutions here that are already doing a wonderful job would be very delighted to participate in that ecosystem where everyone is offering quality education in the near future when the foreign institutions come and on this Mr. Nirvaan Birla Founder of Birla Brainiacs said, UGC guidelines are elevating the standards of education, which in turn would help the learners of our country to become efficient leaders in the world. Birla Brainiacs pedagogical approach is the ultimate stepping stone in the field of education in a similar way as the UGC being the guiding stone of education.

These universities will have an online application process, and applicants must submit all necessary materials via the UGC portal. The universities must also provide an assurance that the quality of education they provide on their Indian campuses will be on par with that provided at their main campuses in their countries of origin, and that the degrees granted to students on those campuses will be recognised as being equal to those granted by the institutions on the main campuses.

Dr. G Pardha Saradhi Varma, Vice Chancellor, KL (Deemed to be University) said "The UGC's new announcement will be a win-win situation for both the universities and the students. However, it also depends upon the quality maintenance that the universities need to keep in mind. Furthermore, we believe the Government will help overcome other challenges since it will help to grow the Indian economy. On the other hand, the existing Indian university has this advantage as they are familiar with the market and the new international universities have to create it from the scratch"

"While there may be a short-term effect on the nation's private colleges, in the long run, students can always look forward to sharing knowledge and embracing positives from others.
Thieves steal data, money via passcode

The passcode in iPhones that helps people unlock their devices is now giving thieves easy access to steal their money and data at public places.

According to Wall Street Journal, using a remarkably low-tech trick, thieves watch iPhone owners tap their passcodes, then steal their targets phones and their digital lives.

A 31-year-old senior economist at a workforce intelligence startup lost all photos, contacts and notes in her iPhone 13 Pro Max which was snatched at a bar in Midtown Manhattan and about $10,000 vanished from her bank account in just 24 hours. With only the iPhone and its passcode, an interloper can within seconds change the password associated with the iPhone owners Apple ID, said the report.

This would lock the victim out of their account, which includes anything stored in iCloud. The thief can also often loot the phones financial apps since the passcode can unlock access to all the devices stored passwords, it added.

When the password change is complete, the software offers an option to force other Apple devices, such as Macs or iPads, to sign out of the Apple account, so a victim couldnt turn to those devices to regain access. The Apple software never requires the user to enter an older password before setting a new one. With the new password, the thief can disable Find My iPhone. Disabling Find My iPhone feature also allows the thief to resell the iPhone. As Apple spokesperson said that iPhone is the most secure consumer mobile device, and we work tirelessly every day to protect all our users from new and emerging threats. We sympathise with users who have had this experience and we take all attacks on our users very seriously, no matter how rare, the spokesperson was quoted as saying. We will continue to advance the protections to help keep user accounts secure.

Nearly all of the victims had their iPhones stolen while they were out at night. In all cases, the iPhone owners were locked out of their Apple accounts. They then discovered thousands of dollars in financial thefts, including some combination of Apple Pay charges, drained bank accounts linked to phone apps and money taken from PayPals Venmo and other money-sending apps, the report said. IANS
Nurturing your childs hunger can be difficult due to numerous factors such as nutrition, health benefits, and so on, and as a parent these must be considered. Despite the fact that it is one of the most important areas for parents to focus on during their childrens developmental stages, a childs fussy eating habits can be extremely hard to handle

While children grow quickly, they require a lot of nutrition during their growing years to keep them energetic and moving throughout the day. To ensure that kids obtain their optimum nutritional value and energy from the snacks they consume, we must observe their eating patterns and look at alternative snacking options. Dr Ganesh Kadhe, Director, Medical and Scientific Affairs, Abbotts Nutrition business offers some advice for parents that will help them choose snacks for their children.

Set a mealtime - While bouts of hunger can be satiated with snacks, its important that parents set fixed mealtime for their kids. Kids snacks preferably should be scheduled in between meals. Eating too much too close to a meal may cause them to lose their appetite; waiting too long to eat can lead to overeating.

Prioritise Protein - During the early years, children develop bone and muscle. It is thus advisable to include protein-rich food in their snacks. Protein helps to quench hunger for a longer time compared to high-sugar snacks such as chocolate. For instances, eggs, cheese, or nuts are a good source of protein that will give them the energy that they need throughout the day.

Taste - Children may enjoy eating sweets over vegetables leading them to refusing healthier food options and become a picky eater. Repeatedly exposing children to a new food item, within a positive social environment, and from an early age is effective in increasing childrens willingness to try it.

Appetite - Snacking near a mealtime may reduce childrens desire to eat the meal. Additionally, while it is essential to structure mealtimes and snacks, it is also essential to remove distractions (for eg: screens) as that may stop them from being aware of the bodys cues that influence appetite. This can lead them to overeat when they grow up or simply not eat enough. The fundamentals of lifelong physical and mental health are laid in early childhood. Building healthy habits and routines can help promote optimal growth and enhance childrens overall health.

Keeping these things in mind, below are five savvy yet healthy snacking options for your kid:

Hard Boiled Eggs and cheese cubes

Set yourself up for your kids snacking success by preparing a batch of hard-boiled eggs at the beginning of the week. Large eggs have 6 grams of protein a piece, and they pair perfectly with cheese cubes which are a great hit amongst kids. With 5 to 7 grams of protein and only 80 calories, cheese cubes are a great on-thego snack option that can also go along with fresh veggies.

D.I.Y. Snack Mix

Why spend money on readymade snack mixes when you can make your own at home and with healthier ingredients? For a little snack thats packed with flavor, combine unsalted almonds, walnuts, and unsweetened dried fruit with extras like unsweetened coconut flakes, raisins, dates, and seeds.

Poha

Poha is made with flattened rice, you can cook this with chopped onions, spices, herbs, lemon juice and peanuts. This is a refreshing, lemony dish and can be topped with some crunchy sev, fresh-cut onions, or grated coconut to make it look more appetizing to kids. This is also a great tiffin snack for kids.

Pancakes

Pancakes can be an easy to make and fun snack option for your kids. Adding some chocolate flavoured PediaSure powder to your mix will elevate the taste and increase the nutritional value of the snack. It is a complete and balanced nutrition solution with 37 nutrients, scientifically tested to help improve immunity and supports visible growth to children in 90 days.

Dhoklas and Idlis

Because they are low in fat and high in protein, they make excellent evening snacks. Steaming your dhoklas and avoiding topping them with sweet chutney will help you cut calories. Preparing idlis with oats will add an extra boost of energy and protein to this dish. IANS
Davenport Police have arrested a man accused of providing false information about a domestic abuse conviction on an ATF form when he attempted to buy a firearm last month.

Treavon Lamonte Clark, 21, is charged with one count of providing false information in acquiring a weapon. The charge is a Class D felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of five years.

According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police on Jan. 25, Clark attempted to purchase a Taurus 9mm handgun from Theisens Home Farm & Auto in Davenport.

In completing ATF Form 4473, which is required for all firearms purchases, Clark answered no to the question in Section 21, Have you ever been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, or are you or have you ever been a member of the military and been convicted of a crime that included, as an element, the use of force against a person as identified in the instructions?

On Dec. 15, 2022, Clark pleaded guilty to one count of domestic abuse assault impeding flow of air/blood. The charge is an aggravated misdemeanor under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of two years.

According to the arrest affidavit in that case, at 11:56 a.m. on May 30, 2022, Clark assaulted a woman with whom he has two children. He punched the woman in the face and put his hands around her neck impeding breathing and circulation by applying pressure. Clark fled the scene when a neighbor yelled she was calling the police.

Clark was sentenced Dec. 15, 2022, to one year on unsupervised probation by Scott County District Associate Judge Korie Talkington. During his probation Clark was ordered to obey all federal, state and city laws. A violation could result in his probation being revoked. Clark also has a no-contact order filed against him that does not expire until Dec. 15, 2027.

During a first appearance on the weapons charge held Thursday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Jay Sommers scheduled a preliminary hearing in the case for March 3.

Clark was being held Thursday night in the Scott County Jail on a bond of $5,000, cash or surety.

Federal authorities could take over the case under Project Safe Neighborhoods. Instituted in 2001, Project Safe Neighborhoods is a Justice Department initiative that brings together law enforcement at all levels to reduce gun violence.

Providing false information on ATF From 4473 carries a federal prison sentence of up to 15 years and a possible fine of up to $250,000. There is no parole in the federal system.
An early morning fire in Milan has displaced three families.

The fire was reported at 2:12 a.m. Monday in the three-story apartment building at 312 W. 20th Ave., Milan, Black Hawk Fire Protection District Chief Todd Fitzpatrick said Monday afternoon.

No one was hurt, but six families initially were displaced, he said.

Three of those families were expected to return to their homes Monday, he said, and the three other apartments must first be cleaned because of smoke and water damage. The Red Cross is assisting those three families.

The fire appears to have originated in the laundry area of one of the apartments, but the cause remained under investigation, Fitzpatrick said. It was under control within 30 to 45 minutes, but firefighters remained on scene until about 5 a.m.

The fire protection district was assisted by firefighters from Rock Island, Coal Valley, Andalusia and Coyne Center, he said. The Milan Police Department, the Rock Island County Sheriffs Office and the Moline Second Alarmers also assisted.
News on Amtrak

Moline is expected to give an announcement Monday morning on the prospect of high-speed rail service coming to the Quad-Cities. The passenger rail project to connect Moline to Chicago has been in the works for more than a decade.

Moline: State of the City

Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati will be delivering her state of the city address Monday, Feb. 27, at 8:30 a.m. in building one auditorium at Black Hawk College. The speech will focus on "Pathways, Partnerships, and Prosperity." Community Economic Development Director Ryan Hvitlk and BHC President Wynes also will give remarks. Doors open at 8 a.m.

Scott County's EMS leadership, property tax

Scott County is looking to hire a search firm to recruit a director of EMS services. Supervisors will consider next week whether to hire GovHR USA to conduct the EMS director search for $24,500 plus reimbursable travel expenses. The county is looking to take over administration of nonprofit MEDIC ambulance services to in an effort to ensure long-term stability of emergency medical transportation for Scott County residents as MEDIC faces funding shortfalls. The supervisors meetings are Tuesday morning at 8 a.m. and the vote by supervisors will occur at the board's Thursday evening meeting at 5 p.m.

Scott County also plans to discuss department financials. With changes to property tax revenues by the Legislature, Scott County is pushing back its public hearing on the fiscal 2024 budget and five-year capital improvement plan to April 27. Lawmakers gave local governments 30 extra days to file budgets with the state because of the property tax changes, pushing the deadline back from the end of March to April 30.

School boards to talk academics, taxes, internships, child care

On Monday evening, the Davenport school board will vote to approve the district's 2023-2024 academic calendar at the board meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m. Moline-Coal Valley school board will vote on an agreement with the City of Moline for student internships, while Pleasant Valley school leaders will discuss their fiscal year 2023-25 property tax rate during their meetings, both of which start at 6 p.m. North Scott school board members will discuss and vote on a child care tuition increase for summer 2023 at their meeting, which will start at 6:30 p.m., this time at Ed White Elementary School. All board meetings will be livestreamed on each district's YouTube channel.
In 2019, a five-year extension was granted from the Federal Railroad Administration to provide more time for IDOT and IAIS to negotiate an agreement and for construction to begin.

Construction of a passenger train depot and its accompanying Element Hotel, 316 12th St., Moline, was completed in February 2018. The depot and hotel are collectively called The Q.

Other options for tourism, Rayapati said Monday, could include additional partnerships with the Quad City International Airport and/or Visit Quad Cities. But the fight to bring passenger rail to Moline is far from over, she said.

"I'm here to say we want to support any partner that is willing to take Iowa Interstate Railroad to task and make a formal complaint to the Surface Transportation Board in order to force passenger rail to become a reality," the mayor said.

Other leaders chime in

Moline aldermen also have grown impatient by delays but said they also remain hopeful the downtown railroad depot will be put to its intended use.

At-Large Alderman James Patrick Schmidt said the council was not directly involved in negotiations, but aldermen are committed to the project.

I think if we thought the train was not possible, we wouldnt be putting that effort in, he said.

Moline has upheld its end of the bargain, 4th Ward Alderman Matt Timion said, and the matter is out of the city's hands. The only thing aldermen can do, he said, is to help put pressure on the rail company.

Sam Moyer, 5th Ward, said having passenger rail to Chicago would give people the opportunity to work for companies in Chicago while living in the Quad-Cities. And it would make the Quad-Cities easily accessible to millions of Chicagoans.

I think it could really be a development game changer for us, he said.

Rock Island County Board member Porter McNeil has been involved with the rail project for more than a dozen years and said he, too, can see the potential financial impact.

"As someone who joined the QC Passenger Rail Coalition around 2009, I know I speak for a multitude of Quad-Citizens who are hoping to get this train back on track toward completion soon," he said. "This train will have a significant economic impact on Moline and the QC region, in addition to improving our quality of life and workforce development."
For St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Davenport, planning Lenten fish fries begins the week after the last one ends.

Organizers for the events, which occur every Friday during the 40-day, Christian-observed period of Lent, meet regularly throughout the year to go over changes and to prepare for the next year's round of meals.

This week, ahead of the first fish fry on Feb. 24, head organizer Angie McClimon said she and a group of volunteers spent their time ordering 1,100 pounds of fish, 25 gallons of coleslaw, 50 dozen rolls and 26 loaves of bread. The inventory will  maybe  last them two weeks.

"It's funny, because we're a Catholic church, and I worked the front line last year serving and there were so many people that I don't see at church, or I know that aren't Catholic that come every year," McClimon said. "It's just really cool because of the fellowship, seeing old friends and meeting new people."

Churches and organizations across the Quad-Cities are ready to turn up the ovens and throw open the doors to the public, with everyone being welcome.

One of the biggest concerns McClimon had ahead of the fish fries was sourcing everything they would need for a fair price. The church was able to get everything it needed, but meal prices were raised by $2 to offset costs.

Fish, bread and coleslaw prices have risen just under 10%, McClimon said, and cheese prices are even higher. Butter, however, is a whopping 44% more expensive.

"And we use a lot of butter," she said.

Despite high food costs, McClimon said, preparations have been going smoothly, thanks to the teams of volunteers that cook, serve and clean. About 40 volunteers work the events each week, keeping things running while anywhere from 700 to 1,200 people come through for a meal.

Mark Wacker, a volunteer at the fish fries for 10 years, said the evenings can get pretty hectic with everyone coming through. He'll most likely be at the ovens, baking potatoes continuously to keep filling plates. But he loves doing it so much that he's never missed a fish fry  until later this Lenten season when he will travel to attend his grandson's confirmation.

"We get volunteers in the kitchen and out here in the dining room that come down and help who have nothing to do with St. Alphonsus; that come down to volunteer, which I think is just absolutely awesome," Wacker said."Seeing the community come together to do this is just phenomenal."

Here is a roundup of fish fries in the Quad-Cities region:

St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 2626 Boies Ave., Davenport, will host its dinners 4-7 p.m. every Friday beginning Feb. 24 and through March. The menu includes baked or fried fish, baked potato or french fries, coleslaw, pickle and a drink. Grilled cheese sandwiches are also available. Meal prices are $14 for adults and $5 for kids, and meals can be pre-ordered online.

Kaaba Shriners, 511 Veterans Memorial Parkway, Davenport, will hold fish fries 4-7 p.m. Fridays starting Feb. 24 and running through March. The organization will offer all-you-can-eat fish or grilled cheese sandwiches and baked potatoes for dine-in or carry-out.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church's Blessed Father Pro Mens Club will hold fish fries 4-7 p.m. every Friday during Lent starting Feb. 24 at 800 17th St., Silvis. Food served includes catfish, fried shrimp, baked cod, baked potato and a salad bar.

Muscatine Knights of Columbus will hold fish fries 4:30-7 p.m. every Friday until April 8 at 2407 Cedar St., Muscatine. The drive-thru-only events will offer fried fish, shrimp, baked beans and potatoes, coleslaw and a cookie. The meal costs $12 for those ages 13 and up and $6 for those ages 6-12.

Our Lady of the River Catholic Church, 28200 226th St. Place, LeClaire, has moved its fish fry from Feb. 22 to 6 p.m. March 3.

St. Anthony's Catholic Church will host a fish fry 4-7 p.m. March 31, according to the Diocese of Davenport. Fried and baked fish will be served.

Milan American Legion, 515 W 1st Ave., Milan, will host fish fries 5-7 p.m. March 3, 10 and April 7. Menu items are priced individually, and include catfish, shrimp, chicken, tenderloins and sides.
Holstein.

That was the winning word for Lindsey Jessen, a sixth-grader from Marion, Iowa, at the 42nd Annual Dispatch-Argus Regional Spelling Bee.

Lindsey outlasted 39 other participants in the event Saturday at Centennial Hall on the campus of Augustana College in Rock Island.

She earned an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee on May 28-June 2.

My favorite subject is math, Lindsey said after the tournament, adding that she is home-schooled by her mother, Carla, who has a degree in elementary education from the University of Iowa.

She also will compete March 23 in Iowas MathCounts state competition in Ankeny, she said.

Describing how she studied for Saturdays competition, Lindsey said she and her mom, read through the list of words, and then she would call them out to me. Any ones I missed I would practice them until I got it right.

Lindsey added that what helps her is the fact that, I love to read.

Carla Jessen said a bit of help was the Word Club app on the Scripps National Spelling Bee website.

We love that one, Jessen said. Because I dont know how to pronounce some of these words. We didnt start studying until well into the school year, and we downloaded the app and we figured out, Thats helpful. I was looking up the words and trying to write down the correct pronunciations so I could remember how to say it, and the app pronounced it for us.

The more we used the app, the better we liked it because it bookmarks the ones you missed and the ones you need to practice, Jessen said.

Jessen said she had home-schooled Lindsey since she was 3 years old and that Lindsey, says she wants to be an engineer.

Second place went to Parthasaradhi Katreddy, who is in sixth grade at Hopewell Elementary School in Bettendorf.

Parthasaradhi was one of several contestants who asked questions about the words, and when spelling acted as though he was writing it down on the palm of his hand. He said its a tool that works.

But he also used other tools offered in the rules, as did other contestants, such as asking for a words definition and to hear its use in a sentence.

To study for the contest, Parthasaradhi said, I used the Word Club app to type out the words and practice them every day. He added that, My favorite subject also is math, and when asked what he might like to study in college, probably computer science.

Third place went to Matthew Winkler, who is in sixth grade at Mount Vernon Middle School in Mount Vernon, Iowa.

Danine Glascock, the coordinator for the event, said of Saturdays contestants, Every single one of them was bright.

Glascock said each contestant could ask the pronouncer certain questions about the word, such as its language of origin, definition, part of speech such as noun and verb, other possible pronunciations and its use in a sentence.

The contestants were given a list of words to study, she said. And there is a list of words they did not get to study if the competition is tough between the contestants.

We did not get into the words that they hadnt studied, Glascock said. They were all from the study guide that they got.

Glascock said the spelling list was closely guarded and that she generally received it about two weeks before the spelling bee.

The rules are strict, she added.

Were not allowed to livestream the event to protect the integrity of the word list. Some places havent had their bees so its closely guarded.

Lindsey Jessen took home a large trophy, and her family will receive travel expenses to take her to compete in Washington. She also will receive a Samuel Louis Sugarman Award Certificate donated by Jay Sugarman, chairman and CEO of iStar Financial, in honor of his father. This years award includes a 2023 United States Mint Proof Set.

Lindsey also gets a one-year subscription to Merriam-Webster unabridged online dictionary, donated by Merriam-Webster, and a one-year subscription to Britannica Online, donated by Encyclopedia Britannica.

Glascock said the competition in Washington would begin with the preliminaries on May 30 with the finals being on June 1. The competition is not by age, and Lindsey will be competing against other regional champions, and there will be more than 200 spellers there.
Moline has a once-in-a-lifetime chance to re-imagine its Mississippi riverfront, the mayor said during her State of the City address.

In her second such address as mayor, Sangeetha Rayapati said the city is focusing on three pillars: pathways, partnerships and prosperity. The emphases are the foundation, she said, to moving the city forward in its major downtown and riverfront redevelopment vision.

"Those partnerships start with a commitment on our part to create relationships with businesses and other entities to do the transformative work that needs to be done," she said.

Reshaping downtown

Moline's community economic development team has been working with private-sector partner Renew Moline to find opportunities for redevelopment. The former JC Penney building at 1701 5th Ave. and the parking lot behind it are going to be turned into apartments, for instance, after the property was donated to Renew.

Economic development staff also are working with Renew to find a consultant to draft a master plan for the riverfront. Making use of long-dark land under the old Interstate 74 bridge is at the center of redevelopment efforts.

"This is only the tip of the iceberg of how you're seeing the department is working to build prosperity through partnerships," said Ryan Hvitlk, community and economic development director, who spoke briefly at Monday's State of the City event.

The city also bought the former KONE site on the riverfront for $3.1 million. It likely will become permanent green space, given environmental concerns on the former manufacturing site. A skate park and pump track is proposed for land under the new I-74 bridge.

Also a focus: Adding more downtown housing, commercial and retail spaces, and dedicated green space.

Dave Herrell, president and CEO of Visit Quad Cities, said Moline had tremendous momentum and its riverfront redevelopment would play a key role in attracting and retaining people to the area.

"Any time that we can find a way to re-imagine what we're doing with our world-renowned river and the Mississippi experience, it gives us a unique chance to be relevant and competitive in a 21st-century economy," Herrell said.

Finances

The city is likely to weather the economic downturn and possible recession, Rayapati said, because of its strong finances from 2022 that carried over to fiscal year 2023.

The total budget for fiscal year 2023 is about $159 million with a surplus of nearly $4 million and no property tax increases.

"We remain committed to living within our means and balancing long and short financial goals," she said.

The city also has $20.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Highlights of projects using ARPA funds include $1.3 million in water and sewer projects, the first phase of the 7th Avenue reconstruction project, and small business loans.

All ARPA funds, Rayapati said, are well on their way to being spent and will be exhausted by the end of 2026.

Citywide projects

Rayapati also highlighted the city's strategic plan that aims to complete 85 objectives over three fiscal years.

For 2022, 22 of the objectives were met. Twenty-one projects have reached 75% completion and 10 are halfway finished.

Some of the completed objectives include launching a regional land bank authority that will help reduce rundown properties and improve them, expanding child care facilities, the launch of the B.O.O.S.T program for small businesses and citywide broadband.

Moline approved an agreement for Metronet to build a 100% fiber-optic network to deliver high-speed internet to households and businesses throughout the entire city. Metronet will begin construction in March with service anticipated to begin rolling out to residents by this summer.

The program, Business Owner Occupied Stabilization Transformation (B.O.O.S.T.), is funded with $1.1 million in ARPA funds. The program will provide forgivable loans to small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to start a business in the city.

"We anticipate that the collective impact of these pathways toward prosperity will energize our local economy and help lead toward positive transformation," Rayapati said.

Other objectives include launching a form-based code for downtown redevelopment, the Riverfront Masterplan and revamping the 20-year-old comprehensive plan.

The city also is planning to establish a Tax Increment Finance District, or TIF, along Illinois Route 92, and Riverside Pool will get $6.8 million in updates and improvements this summer, including a lazy river and three new water slides.

"All of these are signs of a city on the move  a city that's chasing a version of itself that we haven't seen before," the mayor concluded.
As the Friday transmittal deadline for general bills looms over the Montana Legislature, lawmakers on the House Judiciary Committee on Monday heard one bill that would ban an abortion procedure in Montana and another similar to a so-called born-alive measure that failed at the ballot box last November.

Following the fall of Roe v. Wade at the federal level, abortion remained legal in Montana under the state Supreme Court's Armstrong decision, which found the state Constitution's right to privacy protects access to abortions. GOP lawmakers are hoping Montana's high court one day will also reverse itself, but are still bringing bills to limit access to the procedure in the meantime. Last session legislators passed a trio of bills curtailing abortion that are under a temporary court block while a lawsuit against them plays out.

Heard Monday in the House Judiciary Committee, House Bill 721 would ban the most commonly used abortion procedure after 12 weeks' gestational age, and would state that the Legislature finds the procedure, unless performed in the case of an emergency, "a barbaric practice."

Bill sponsor Speaker of the House Matt Regier, R-Kalispell, told the committee that his bill was not about the larger abortion debate.

It does one thing. It restricts the act of dismembering a live child inside the womb except for during a medical emergency when the child would not survive outside the womb. This bill is not to stop a woman from obtaining an abortion, Regier said.

But opponents pointed out the procedure, known as dilation and evacuation, is the most commonly used abortion method in the second trimester of a pregnancy. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has said D&E "is evidence-based and medically preferred because it results in the fewest complications for women compared to alternative procedures.

In the legislation, the procedure is called barbaric, something Regier and opponents repeated Monday.

I stress to you that this bill just restricts the tearing apart of a living, undelivered human being, Regier said.

Jeff Laszloffy, with the Montana Family Foundation, spoke in support of the bill, saying the Legislature had the ability to regulate forms of abortion available.

Other supporters of the bill said that medical advancements have come a long way since the 1972 Roe decision that allowed for access to abortions at the federal level. That decision fell with the Dobbs decision last summer that put the question of abortion back to the states. The advances in technology, backers of the bill argued, show that fetuses can feel pain, making the procedure banned in Regiers bill inappropriate.

However, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has found after review of scientific studies that a fetus cannot feel pain until 24 weeks at the earliest.

According to 2020 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly all abortions that year, or 93.1%, happened prior to 13 weeks. Just 5.8% of abortions happen between 1420 weeks gestation and only 0.9% occur after that point. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists who deal with high-risk pregnancies have repeatedly testified to lawmakers that abortions later in pregnancies are almost always for wanted pregnancies where something has gone tragically wrong.

Opponents to the bill called it extreme government overreach and the Legislature inserting itself into private medication decisions between families and doctors and protected by the state Constitution.

This bill would allow politicians to stand in the way of a person's decision and a doctor's recommendation. The person's health, not politics, should guide important medical decisions during pregnancy, said Quinn Leighton, the director of external affairs for Planned Parenthood of Montana.

Nicole Smith, the executive director of Blue Mountain Clinic in Bozeman, said the bill seeks to ban a standardized medical practice.

The D&E procedure is often used for miscarriage management for those who have experienced heartbreaking fetal loss after the first trimester, Smith said.

The committee also heard House Bill 625 from Rep. Kerri Seekins-Crowe, R-Billings. Much of the language for the bill comes from the national Alliance for Defending Freedom, according to legislative records.

Called the "Infant Safety and Care Act," it would say an infant born alive following an attempted abortion in an abortion clinic, medical facility, or other facility is entitled to the same protections under the law that would arise for any newborn infant or for any person who comes to a medical facility or other facility for screening or treatment.

It is similar to legislation from 2021 that put a so-called born-alive infant protection act before voters, who defeated the measure by a 53%-47% margin.

Seekins-Crowe said a new provision in her bill, however, would alleviate concerns from past opponents to the legislation that families would not be able to spend time with infants who were not going to survive. The previous bill asked voters to decide if health care providers must take all medically appropriate and reasonable actions to preserve the life and health of the infant.

Seekins-Crowes version, however, has different language to say a doctor must exercise the same degree of professional skill, care, and diligence to preserve the life and health of the infant as a reasonably diligent and conscientious health care provider would render to any other infant born alive at the same gestational age.

The Infant Safety and Care Act does not prevent parents from holding their baby when death is imminent. Parents deserve to share those precious last moments with their child. And we have ensured that the bill language accounts for that, Seekins-Crowe said. This bill also should remove the fear of any medical provider providing reasonably diligent and conscientious health care.

Opponents of the bill pointed out that Montana state law already prohibits causing the death of a premature infant born alive if the infant is viable.

This is already law. Im not sure why the state would decide they want to put additional responsibilities on doctors by requiring that an infant is immediately transported and admitted to a medical facility and create these additional burdens when we already have this area of law, said Robin Turner, on behalf of the ACLU of Montana. We think that what this attempts to do is just to continue to stigmatize abortion which, again, is something that people in Montana are constitutionally allowed to do.  We already know if an infant is born alive, we already know its against the law to kill them.

When asked about the existing law, Seekins-Crowe said it does not protect non-viable infants.

HB 625 protects the least of these, the smallest, most vulnerable in our society, those who are not viable, Seekins-Crowe said. It gives them the medical care that is provided at that stage.

Seekins-Crowe said the bill was personal to her, as she was told her son was not compatible with life but later delivered him and hes now an adult with a family of his own.

The committee is expected to vote on the bills Tuesday, and if passed the full House must debate and pass them before Friday.
Nobody really knows whats on all those trains that roll endlessly through Missoula.

Nobody except for the railroads.

In the wake of the disastrous February 3rd train derailment and chemical fire in East Palestine, Ohio, freight trains carrying hazardous materials are under increasing scrutiny. But residents, and even first responders dont have much ability to know what the trains moving through their communities actually carry. Railroads generally refuse to discuss it. Often, communities only learn what a train was carrying once disaster strikes.

Its probably one of the issues that is of greatest concern, is that you dont know until it happens, said Adriane Beck, Missoula Countys disaster and emergency services coordinator and the director of the countys Office of Emergency Management. We rely on our rail partners to appropriately placard their tank cards.

She was referring to standardized four-digit placards affixed to rail cars carrying hazardous materials. The placards are also found on truck trailers hauling bulk qualities of hazardous materials. Depending on their configurations, a single railroad tank car can carry the volume of up to 3.5 semi-truck tanker trailers. Trains often exceed 100 cars. That gives trains the unique ability to move massive quantities of hazardous materials through the hearts of communities and cities across the nation. Often, as is frequently the case in Missoula, a yardful of trains sit parked side-by-side in the middle of downtown. Essentially the only way for a person to know the contents of the trains in their community is to sit by the tracks and look up the placard number on each rail car  a practically impossible task given the number of trains that move through at all hours.

To this day nobody knows whats going through the towns because its just not open information, said Ron Scholl, a Missoula author with a masters degree in environmental studies. Scholl has spent decades researching hazmat spills from train derailments.

No matter where you live in the United States, youre along a rail line that could pop someday, Scholl said. The odds are really, really low, but it could happen. When you look at it mile for mile, railroads are extremely safe. But when it happens, its often catastrophic.

Scholl said that Its the norm for many communities to have Bhopal (India) on wheels coming through, and they dont even know  a reference to the 1985 chemical release from a Union Carbide facility in Bhopal, India, that killed thousands of people and injured half a million more. One study on chlorine spills, he said, found that if one train tank car of chlorine spilled in downtown Denver, as many as 90,000 people could die in the first day.

A toxic exposure could happen anywhere, anytime, he said. Its taking something from a fixed facility and moving through town. It doesnt really matter where you live.

Although, he said, such incidents are far more likely in small towns and rural areas where train speed limits are significantly higher than in more densely populated areas.

Western Montana is no stranger to such incidents. Early on the morning of Feb. 2, 1989, 49 rail cars detached from a Montana Rail Link train heading up Mullan Pass and careened 9 miles back down into Helena. They crashed into another train sitting in Helena, caught fire and exploded. Debris was scattered blocks away. Windows were shattered up to 1 mile away. Part of a rail car landed in the Carroll College library. Most of Helena was without power, and residents within 2 miles were evacuated in -30 degree weather over concerns of toxic gasses. Somehow, no one died.

Missoula has its stories too. Just after 4 a.m. on April 11, 1996, an MRL train derailed near Alberton. A tank car carrying chlorine ruptured. About 65 tons of chlorine gas choked the air over the town, killing one person riding the train and forcing the closure of Interstate 90 and the evacuation of Alberton for 17 days. Some residents affected by chlorine exposure still struggle with health effects today. Scholl recently published a two-part book on the spill and its aftermath.

Less than two years later, a runaway MRL train east of Missoula was intentionally derailed near Clinton. In 2006, five cars derailed in MRLs yard in Missoulas Northside neighborhood. About 12,000 gallons of flammable liquid ethanol, a common gasoline additive, spilled. The 900 block of Philips Street was evacuated. This past August, at least three automobile-transport cars derailed in the yard, tilting at precarious angles but not overturning.

Railroads wont say

Two railroads run trains through Missoula and Montana: Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) and MRL. The former is in the process of absorbing the latter, which is owned by the Washington Companies.

Both companies repeatedly refused to schedule a phone interview with a Missoulian reporter. Both refused to provide information about what materials they transport in Missoula or around the state. Both failed to answer a list of questions emailed to them.

In response to a list of questions and multiple requests for an interview, Andy Garland, director of communications for MRL, issued a statement via email Friday: The safety of our employees and the communities in which we operate in has and always will be our top priority. We adhere to all federal and local regulations pertaining to reporting and guidelines for all shipments that travel across our system. Our goal is to be perfect, and we take great efforts to review and improve when we fall short of that. We take immense pride in being an industry leader as it pertains to safety metrics and performance and continue to make this our main focus.

Lena Kent, the general director of public affairs for BNSF, wrote in an email Wednesday that I can assure you and the community that as an industry leader, BNSF is committed to safely and securely delivering the goods and products the American public depends on every day, including hazardous materials. BNSF has made a significant investment in infrastructure, technology deployment, rigorous employee and first responder training, improved operating practices and community safety initiatives. BNSF regularly inspects all the components of our network, including locomotives, track, rail and bridges.

Asked again what materials BNSF moves through Missoula, or how the public could find such information, Kent replied: We provide commodity flow reports only to emergency responders, elected- or emergency-management officials.

But Beck, the Missoula County official in charge of emergency management, said that we dont know necessarily whats on those trains at any given moment.

Philip Keating, assistant fire chief of Missoula Fire Department  which is part of a regional hazmat response team  said that MRL, when they do get something that is not typically transported by them, they will try to reach out to let responders know. And, he said, With the regional hazmat team in Missoula, they do regular training with Montana Rail Link. Quite often they do a briefing and training with MRL based on whatever products theyre bringing through.

But Theyre not going to educate the jurisdiction on every hazardous thing that comes through, he said, and They dont always give hard numbers.

One reason such information isnt regularly reported to local jurisdictions, Beck said, is because the sheer volume and constant flow of information would be overwhelming. And with the volume of rail transport through Missoula, the takeaway might just be that hazardous materials are there all the time.

The quantity of information would be challenging to process, she said. The number of trains that go through our community carrying hazardous materials every day is enormous. Its not to say that its not public information, but the logistics of how to communicate that in real time ... would be really challenging.

There are security concerns about sharing the information, too. Railroads consider their hazardous material shipment information to be proprietary, partly for security reasons. Local governments can request annualized reports of hazardous materials previously transported through their communities by rail. But industry standards and Department of Homeland Security guidance dictate that the information is for emergency-response planning purposes only, and should be shared on a need-to-know basis.

9/11 happened and all of a sudden a lot of people didnt want that knowledge out there, Scholl said. They made some concessions to the threat of terrorism. Its got to be something that keeps people at the National Security Agency up at night, because it wouldnt take much to place a bomb under a chlorine tank.

Beck wasnt as sure. She said, I certainly think there is a national security component to that, but she offered as a counterpoint that fixed facilities that store, use or manufacture hazardous materials are required under federal law to report whats there. If BNSF or MRL reported that they were moving a train of lightweight and flammable Bakken crude oil through town at, say, 2 p.m. tomorrow, she said, I dont know if that changes anything.

Some general trends in local hazmat movement are apparent, though. Keating said that large amounts of petroleum fuels are put onto trains from pipelines and hauled up alongside U.S. Highway 93 to the north.

Thats something thats a regular occurrence and the hazmat team is aware of it, he said. The most common would be fossil fuels, gas, diesel. Those are the most prevalent.

Placards on trains in Missoula often indicate theyre carrying ethanol. Much less chlorine has passed through Missoula since the closure of the Smurfit-Stone Container facility near Frenchtown, Keating and Missoula Fire Chief Gordy Hughes said.

Assuming the worst

Beck said that any incident involving a train derailment (or truck crash, for that matter) is automatically treated under the assumption that the train has hazardous materials on board, because chances are it does.

Its so frequent, she said, almost every train thats coming through is carrying some amount of hazardous material.

Fire departments, she said, are trained in recognizing different types of cars as to what type of material theyre carrying. Theyre trained to be looking for those placards, adding, youre trying to get you hands on the (freight) manifest as soon as possible.

The Missoula County Office of Emergency Management has a Type 3 incident management team that exists at least in part because There were a lot of lessons learned from the Alberton train derailment, Beck said. One of the biggest lessons learned is the need or the ability for our jurisdiction to stand up an incident management team that is capable of dealing with not just the hazardous material spill, but also the community impacts that creates.

That team itself would not directly tackle a spill, she said, but rather would coordinate overall incident response across multiple agencies, including evacuations or road closures. The county doesnt have a plan specifically for a train derailment that spills hazardous materials, she said, but instead has protocols for a variety of situations that could cover such an event.

For example, she said, in the event of a hazmat incident, we have our fire agencies. The fire department that has jurisdiction is going to be the lead agency ... because they have the training and expertise. And theres the Montana Regional Hazmat Team based in Missoula. Its one of six such teams statewide. This one is built from the Missoula and Missoula Rural fire departments.

Hughes, the Missoula fire chief, said that in the event of a derailment in Missoula, We would respond with one or two engines, depending on the magnitude of the initial call, and a battalion chief. Wed get a set of eyes on the product, wed contact MRL dispatch or Burlington Northern dispatch to get a cargo manifest, which would help in determining which product or material we are dealing with. If we identify whatever the product is, weve got guides and resources that determine the course of action with isolation, evacuation and what we would do for personal protective equipment.

If evacuations, closures or other notices are warranted, he said, the department would work with Becks office to issue them. Beck said that if something like the East Palestine disaster were to occur in Missoula County, she could issue a broad alert on radio, cell phone, television, email, and electronic highway signs through the national Emergency Alert System  the same system through which AMBER Alerts for abducted children are issued.

If were telling you to shelter in place or were telling you to evacuate to a certain area, she said, its not the time for conversation, it really is a life-safety issue.
The last dairy farm in Hanover County is forging a new path with the addition of a great American comfort food: ice cream. The Stanley family hopes that opening White Oak Dairy to visitors and offering sales of the frozen treat can help position its generational farm for a bright future.

The Farmview Creamery is set to open in May, just in time for the summer ice cream season, running initially on Fridays and Saturdays out of a mobile food van at White Oak Dairy. Its primary location will be at the Ashland farm at 12091 Yowell Road, but the van could pop up at markets and events.

Longtime admirers and connoisseurs of ice cream shops across central Virginia, the Stanleys are planning an inaugural menu of eight rotating flavors with favorites that theyve tested among their family and church community. Some of them so far are chocolate vanilla strawberry and honey peanut butter, along with well-known flavors, such as moose tracks, cookie dough and cinnamon. Altogether, theyve tested 22 flavors.

Farmview Creamy will start producing ice cream from a pre-made, pasteurized mix, with an eye on having its own on-site dairy in use as soon as possible. The creamery is just the first phase in the farms view to a new future. A second, larger phase would include a bottling operation in which the farm could possibly process its own milk and, therefore, reap the upside of better margins and selling directly to its customers.

Dairy farms across the country have generally faced economic hardships since the early 2000s. In Virginia, the number of Grade A dairy farms, those that meet certain sanitary standards to qualify for fluid consumption, is starting to wane. In 2017, there were 675 dairy farms. Today, there are only 475, according to the Virginia Farm Bureau.

A 2021 Department of Agriculture report shows that the United States has lost more than half of its dairy farms nationwide since 2003. Some of the largest milk producing states, such as California and Wisconsin, increased their overall production by becoming more efficient, but all states ended the year with fewer licensed operations than they started with.

The Thomas E. Stanley & Sons White Oak Dairy, a Grade A farm, is now owned by its second and third generations, William Stanley and one of his two sons, Joel Stanley, who runs the day-to-day operations alongside his wife, Missy Stanley.

When they bought the Ashland dairy from other family members in 2013, it had veered further into farming crops such as corn, soybeans and barley than it had traditionally. Joel Stanley wanted to grow the dairy to get back to the propertys roots. He kept some crop production to diversify the farms revenues. Shortly thereafter, dairy sales declined.

One reality about the dairy industry, and farming generally, is that farmers rarely set the price for their products.

As time has gone on, we realized ... you have to take [what you can get] for the milk coming in. Its driven by the market, and were not getting as much for our milk as we were 15 years ago, Joel Stanley said.

His first year at the farms helm in 2014 was a good one. Then things took a nosedive, and it was rough financially until about 2020 when revenues increased a little.

It was just bottom of the barrel; we were barely making it, Joel Stanley said.

Milk prices nationally dropped about 28% in 2015, reports show. Measured in hundredweight  or 100 pounds of milk  the price went from a 12-month average of $25.70 in September 2014 to $17.60 a year later.

I liken this to your employer calling tomorrow and cutting your salary 28%, said Whitney Perkins, assistant director for the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.

That 28% decrease in revenue for farmers like the Stanleys doesnt even factor costs such as hauling, advertising, fees, promotion or co-op membership dues they might incur while selling milk.

Milk prices have since risen back to a 12-month average of $25.56 per hundredweight, but Perkins noted that overhead costs largely overshadow that gain.

Joel Stanley started helping his father with some chores around the dairy when he was just 8 years old. By the time he was 15, he worked with cattle, three cows, a bull and had some chores with the hog farm.

In a Richmond Times-Dispatch story that ran in November 1989, his grandfather and first-generation owner Thomas E. Stanley said he worried about the future of the farm. On the one hand, he was wary about how incoming Ashland development might impact rental rates for the 600 acres they leased. On the other, he was staving off purchase proposals for the 360 acres they owned outright.

White Oak was one of nine remaining Hanover dairies in 1989, and its persevered.

Today, the Stanleys milk about 180 cows twice daily, once at 1 p.m. and again at 2 a.m. That produces about 15,000 pounds, or about 1,800 gallons daily. The farms overall revenues are diversified through crops, but margins are still tight.

The dairys movement toward adding a creamery is the start of a new dream for the farm. The Stanleys are hoping theyll be able to squeeze more revenue out of fewer acres of farmland. A revenue bump from ice cream sales would mean less pressure to farm and sell crops, so that they could focus on dairy.

The creamery is a way to capitalize on the 265 acres we have, and not have to go out and farm 500 extra acres, Missy Stanley said.

The Stanleys are working with the Virginia Foundation for Agriculture, Innovation and Rural Sustainability to complete a feasibility study that was funded by a grant from the University of Tennessees Southeast Dairy Business Innovation Initiative, which focuses on helping dairy farms diversify their products.

Perkins, also an assistant director for VAFAIRS, is helping with the feasibility study that ideally will show that the Stanleys plan for an on-site bottling and processing facility is economically viable.

Factors behind the declining dairy industry are vast. Economic reasons, technological shifts and a rise of plant-based milks have all played a part.

Perkins said that the bottling operation would give the Stanleys more control over the price they can charge for their product, while also cutting out expenses in the middle. The creamery helps twofold, both as a new focus and revenue stream, and to bring people to the farm.

We as a society have moved away from living on farms. Most folks are multiple generations removed from farms, Perkins said. For the Stanleys moving to this, it allows them to connect with consumers. It allows consumers to see farmers and hear their story and learn about milk production and dairy production in a way that we havent had for a very long time.

Ultimately, that comes down to creating a place that people want to visit and get a frozen treat.

We realize there are a lot of good ice cream shops, Missy Stanley said. What were bringing to the table is more than that. We want to share our farm with people while they enjoy that ice cream and make good memories with their families.

Joel and Missy Stanley also hope that the creamery, plus the possibility of tech upgrades, such as automatic milking, could make running the farm a more attractive career plan for their daughter or nephews.

Well be able to reduce the size of our herd, which will be more manageable for the next generations. Were trying to set up a model for a different kind of farm, Missy Stanley said.

Joel Stanley noted that he would love for his daughter to take over the farm, but that he isnt standing in the way of any future goal and aspirations she might have.

I dont want to discourage them from that, but I would love to see children come back to the dairy and keep it going just like it always has, Joel Stanley said.

Farmview Creamery will have updates on its hours and pop-up locations on its Facebook page for Farmview Creamery at facebook.com/farmviewcreamery.

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A Farmville native involved in multistate drug trafficking organization based in Texas and Mexico has been sentenced to 17 years in prison in connection with the seizure of nearly 42 pounds of cocaine and $862,000 in drug money in Henrico County.

Jamane A. Greene, 45, would repeatedly travel from Atlanta, where he was then living, to the Richmond area to put huge quantities of drugs into the community from about July 2021 until April 2022, when he was arrested, federal prosecutors said.

Greene was caught by narcotics officers from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Chesterfield and Henrico police with 10 bricks of cocaine weighing 22 pounds while attempting to flee after he flew to Richmond International Airport and checked into a Henrico hotel. Authorities subsequently searched one of his storage units on Williamsburg Road and recovered an additional nine bricks of cocaine weighing 20 pounds.

A search of a second storage unit on Laburnum Avenue leased by Greene turned up $862,400 in cash that he later admitted was drug profits. During the same time frame, authorities searched the room of co-defendant Elvis Elias Lopez and discovered a duffle bag containing $265,035 hidden under a bed.

The joint local and federal investigation revealed that Greene and Lopez had been working together to distribute cocaine in the Richmond area, and they would fly here separately  Greene from Atlanta and Lopez from Texas  as part of their operation.

At the end of a sentencing hearing Friday in U.S. District Court in Richmond, Judge Henry E. Hudson sentenced Greene to 204 months in prison on his earlier guilty plea to possession with the intent to distribute more than 5 kilograms of cocaine. The punishment was at the top of discretionary federal sentencing guidelines, which for Greene was calculated at a range of 168 to 210 months.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Anthony urged a sentence of 192 months, while defense attorney David Whaley sought a downward variance from the guidelines of 120 months.

It appears the judge took into account that Greene had been released from federal prison about 10 years ago for a similar drug trafficking crime.

Greene was convicted in 2007 of dealing about 1.5 kilos of crack cocaine over three years as part of a drug trafficking conspiracy that operated out of Prince Edward County. He originally was sentenced to 168 months in prison, but the punishment was reduced to 96 months due to federal reductions in penalties for crack cocaine sentences. He was released from custody in 2013 and from supervised probation in 2016.

Despite this grace and the defendants performance on supervision, he reverted to the instant criminal behavior wherein he dealt with even greater quantities of controlled substances ... over a shorter period of time, approximately nine months, Anthony said in court filings.

Greene again came to the attention of law enforcement on March 15, 2022, when he flew into Richmond and went directly to his storage unit on Williamsburg Road to pick up a luggage bag. He then drove to the nearby Super 8 motel where Lopez was staying; Greene was observed rolling the luggage bag from his car to Lopezs room.

Five minutes later, Greene loaded the luggage bag into his car, left the motel and drove directly to his storage unit on Williamsburg Road. Surveillance footage showed Greene place the luggage back into his unit. Lopez and his family checked out of the motel later that same morning.

Authorities learned that Greene and Lopez would be traveling again to meet in Richmond on April 14, 2022. After observing Greene engage in actions similar to his March visit, local and federal officers approached him in the parking lot of the hotel where he was staying. He dropped the bag while attempting to flee; 10 bricks of cocaine wrapped in tape were found in the bag after his arrest.

Under the terms of his plea agreement, Greene consented to forfeit to the government the $862,400 found in one of his storage units. He also agreed to forfeit two handguns, an 18-karat gold Rolex watch, a 14-karat gold Success Addictz pendant and a gold necklace paved with diamonds.

Lopez pleaded guilty on Oct. 25 to distribution of more than 5 kilos of cocaine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 31.
Police on Monday released the name of a man who died after a daytime shooting in Richmond last week.

Balewa Hendy, 24, of Richmond was found unresponsive in an alley in the 2000 block of West Broad Street, near North Meadow Street, on Feb. 20.

Police responded to a report of a shooting at 11:03 a.m. They said Hendy was found with an apparent gunshot wound and died at a hospital.

The medical examiners office will determine the cause of death.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at (804) 814-7123 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.
Richmond police are investigating a shooting and vehicle crash on Bainbridge Street that left one person dead early Sunday.

Police said they responded at 5:08 a.m. to Bainbridge and West 13th streets for a report of shots fired and a crash.

Upon arrival, officers located a vehicle that sustained damage from gunfire.

Police determined that at the time of the crash, there were two occupants of the vehicle traveling eastbound. One suffered life-threatening injuries and died at the scene. The second victim escaped unharmed.

The identities of the two people in the vehicle were not released.

The Richmond police Major Crimes and Crash Team units are investigating the incident.

Anyone with information is urged to call Detective N. Reese at (804) 646-0712 or contact Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Tips can also be provided through the P3 Tips Crime Stoppers app. All Crime Stoppers reporting methods are anonymous.

Different types of alerts and what they mean What exactly is a Silver Alert? What exactly is an AMBER Alert? What exactly is a Blue Alert? What exactly is an Ashanti Alert? What exactly is a Green Alert?
Pixel isnt like other police dogs.

Unlike a stereotypically aloof German shepherd, Pixel  tail wagging and face grinning  immediately went to be petted when new people came into the room at the Isle of Wight County Sheriffs Office.

A yellow Labrador decked in a vest with a pink badge and patches, shes trained to find a new, unusual scent. Pixel is the first electronic-storage detection K-9 in the region and can sniff out phones, laptops, flash drives, AirTags, SD cards and more.

Anything that can store memory, we train on, said Investigator Sean Lacy, Pixels handler.

The scent shes after is triphenylphosphine oxide, an industry-standard chemical sprayed on memory chips to keep them from overheating. This makes her useful in cases involving technology someone would want to hide such as child exploitation, financial crimes and even stalking.

Phones and laptops are everywhere, unlike the illicit or explosive substances other police dogs are trained to identify. But Pixel happily ignores the technology around her  until its time to work.

She trains every day with Lacy. In fact, the only time she eats is during training. Finding hidden technology is highly motivated by her drive for food.

Lacy clipped a pouch of dog food to his belt and grabbed Pixels leash.

Yeah, you ready to go to work? he said, his voice pitched higher to grab Pixels attention.

For Thursdays exercise, Pixel was tasked with finding phones in the woods and memory chips in the Sheriffs Office locker room.

While homing in on a scent, Pixel snuffled through the locker room and knocked over a stack of about 20 books.

Show me, Lacy said, wanting a specific book. Show me.

Pixel pinpointed one book in particular and sat to signal Lacy. He rewarded her with iterations of Good girl! and not just one treat, but a handful of dog food.

Lacy picked up the young-adult novel and flipped it open, showing a tiny memory card slipped into the front cover.

Thats tens of thousands of child exploitative images that you can fit on something of that size and make it very difficult for us to find, Lacy said.

What might take one investigator hours to find, if they find it at all, Pixel can uncover in minutes. Lacy related a story about a dog in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, who found a location tracking device hidden under layers of carpet in a car.

The Isle of Wight Sheriffs Office applied for Pixel through the nonprofit Operation Underground Railroad. The organization works with police agencies to address human trafficking and child exploitation.

The countys application was successful in part because of its location, Lacy said. Lacy and Pixel are able to work with local, state and federal agencies in Hampton Roads and throughout the greater region. Operation Underground Railroad paid for Pixels training and will cover her food, supplies and vet bills during her working career. Lacy estimated Pixels training alone cost $20,000.

Pixel is one of four electronic storage detection dogs in Virginia. Since the state legalized marijuana in 2021, dogs who were trained to find that scent have been retired, including one at the Isle of Wight Sheriffs Office.

Pixel also serves as a therapy dog in the sheriffs office.

We see the worst of the worst like every day. Sometimes it sucks, Lacy said. So when she comes in the office, everybody just gets in a better mood.

Amid the cubicles, there are dog beds and toys for Pixel. Her yellow fur also gets everywhere. Sheriffs office spokesperson Tommy Potter said, We issue our officers guns, handcuffs and lint rollers.
Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, clinched the Democratic nomination for Senate in the 9th District Sunday, with a convincing primary victory in a three-way race to run for the seat that Congresswoman-elect Jennifer McClellan, D-4th, will soon vacate.

Bagby, chairman of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, won the Democratic nomination with 72% of the 6,525 votes cast in a firehouse primary against Alexsis Rodgers, a party progressive who received 21% of the vote, and Del. Dawn Adams, D-Richmond, a three-term delegate who finished with 6.5%.

He will face Republican Stephen James Imholt in a special election on March 28 to serve the nearly 11 months remaining in the Senate term of McClellan, who won a special election last week to succeed the late Rep. Donald McEachin, D-4th, in Congress. McEachin died suddenly on Nov. 28, three weeks after winning his fourth term in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Bagby is scheduled to appear on Monday morning with state Democratic Party Chair Susan Swecker. He rode a wave of endorsements by Democratic elected officials to an easy win about 10 weeks after withdrawing from the primary campaign for McEachin's congressional seat. McClellan did not make an endorsement in the primary.

"I was absolutely thrilled about the energy today," he said in a text message on Sunday evening as volunteers counted the votes at party headquarters in Richmond. "I love this community. I'm grateful for the support."

Imholt, 70, was the only candidate to file Saturday for the GOP nomination in a Senate district the party did not contest in the last election in 2019. The local party informed State Republican Chairman Rich Anderson of Imholts candidacy on Sunday, making him the nominee without a contest.

Its crucial that Republicans retake the Senate of Virginia in order to fulfill Governor [Glenn] Youngkins vision for the spirit of Virginia, Anderson said Sunday. Republicans across the 9th Senate District will stand with Steve and will work at his side to ensure that Virginia is the best place in the nation to live, work and raise a family.

Imholt, a retired senior program manager and government consultant, ran against McClellan as a political independent in 2015 in the 71st House District, which she represented until her first election to the Senate in 2016 to succeed McEachin. She easily defeated Imholt then with 88% of the vote. His only elected office was the Board of Education in Rockford, Ill., where he co-chaired its finance committee.

McClellan is expected to resign her Senate seat on March 7, unless she is sworn into Congress sooner. After winning the Democratic nomination in a four-way rout in December, she cruised to a lopsided victory over Republican Leon Benjamin in a special election last week.

Voter turnout on Sunday was about 23% of the nearly 28,000 who cast ballots in the December firehouse primary, held six days after Youngkin scheduled the special election that McClellan won on Feb. 21. The campaign for the Senate primary was even shorter, just four days after Senate President Pro Tempore Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, set the special election on March 28.

Voters cast ballots at four polling places in eastern Henrico, Richmond, Ashland and Charles City County. The party dropped a fifth polling place it had planned at the IBEW 666 headquarters in Highland Springs after Bagby announced on Friday that he had received the unions endorsement.

Bagby received 4,726 votes, 3,351 more than Rodgers with 1,375 votes. Adams received 424 votes.

If he wins the special election, Bagby will have to defend his seat in a state-run Democratic primary on June 20 in the newly drawn 14th Senate District. The new district, created under a political redistricting map approved by the Virginia Supreme Court at the end of 2021, is divided between Richmond and Henrico County, with 80% of its voters in the city. A majority of voters in the current 9th District live in Henrico, with the remainder in Richmond, Charles City County and part of Hanover County.

The primary vote breakdown by locality was not available on Sunday night, but Bagby said in an interview that he won all of the localities in the current district.

"I would hope the party feels united behind us at this point," he said.

Democrats also would have to hold another special election - most likely by firehouse primary - to fill Bagby's current seat in the 74th House District if he wins the Senate race.

One Democrat, Katie Gooch, has already filed her candidacy for the party nomination in the new district, and whoever loses the primary on Sunday also could jump into the 14th District race. Gooch, a resident of Barton Heights in Richmond, is director of the Pace Center, which she describes as an inclusive, multicultural community at Virginia Commonwealth University that is supported by the United Methodist and Presbyterian churches.

Gooch is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and former executive pastor at Reveille United Methodist Church in Richmond.

From the Archives: Richmond buildings that are no longer around
Senate Minority Leader Tommy Norment made a point of doing it quietly, without making  or listening to  the usual sentimental speeches when a long-serving member of the General Assembly retires.

I came in quietly, and I want to leave quietly, said Norment, R-James City, who as leader of the Senate Republican caucus and for a time doubled up as majority leader of the Senate and co-chair of the Senate Finance committee, has been one of the most powerful  and at times feared  politicians in the Capitol.

Politics is an old mans sport and its also a contact sport. Ive got a very competitive personality, and I like that, said Norment, a senator since 1992.

But Ive been reflecting, Im not un-self-aware  me and against you, my team against yours, and I want to win  but [it] can skew things, he added.

Hes looking to spend more time with his second wife, Angie, and his two adult daughters and two grandchildren.

Norment, 76, is among more than a dozen legislators who have announced retirements in recent days. Many, like Norment  paired with Sen. Ryan McDougle, R-Hanover  were put in districts with other incumbents when the state Supreme Court imposed new legislative boundaries in December 2021. Norments departure means the Senates majority leader  Dick Saslaw, D-Fairfax  and minority leader will leave the chamber in January.

Norment wants to get more involved in local civic issues in his Williamsburg hometown and to go back to teaching  for years, he taught political science and law students at the College of William & Mary.

He had to drop teaching in 2019, to lead the hard-fought and ultimately unsuccessful effort to hold onto the GOP Senate majority.

The outline of that course didnt change, but I swear, even in the last year, I put in two hours for every hour I taught, thinking whats that precocious girl who sits in the corner going to come with to confront me with, whats that nerdy boy on the other side going to ask, he said.

I did not ever want to respond to a question saying: Ill get back to you.

Giving up teaching isnt the only price Norment paid for politics.

The messages and threats left in his mailbox during the bitter 2003 primary race against a conservative opponent who attacked him as too moderate shook his first wife, Mary.

My daughter once came home in tears and said her teacher said I hated Blacks  she was crying, I was tearing up, said Norment, who as a cadet at VMI had been among those arguing to admit Black students to the state military college, but who was one of the editors of a yearbook that included photos of cadets in blackface with captions that included slurs.

He has survived other controversies.

Norments relationship with his current wife, Angie Bezik, a lobbyist, was first publicly disclosed in 2015, after one of his clients in his law practice tried to extort him after obtaining emails between the two. The client, Christopher J. Burruss, was sentenced to two years in prison.

In 2017, Norment lashed back at an allegation by Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax City, that Norment had a conflict of interest as a college faculty member who can decide the fate of higher education legislation. Norment said he obtained an opinion from Attorney General Bob McDonnells office eight years before, stating there is no conflict between his legislative role and his position as an adjunct law professor at William & Mary.

As for legislation, Norment said: My daughters sometimes asked: Dad, how can you vote that way, we know you dont believe that,  he said. I said sometimes a leader has to do that, sometimes you have to compromise 

The process doesnt work unless you compromise.

He had to compromise when he was elected leader of a fractured GOP Senate delegation.

We had two caucuses, there was the Senate Republican Caucus, wed been pretty much running it with Walter [Stosch], [R-Henrico][John] Chichester [R-Stafford] and me, and the Senate Republican Trust, the conservatives, Norment said.

But I restructured the leadership, bringing Mark Obenshain [R-Rockingham] and Steve Newman [R-Lynchburg] in from the Trust, he said. Im not sure they trusted me at first, but weve worked together, we still work together. ... I am very close to Steve.

Norment feels his most important accomplishments include working with then-Del. (and eventually House Speaker) Kirk Cox, R-Colonial Heights, to restructure higher education funding, with a three-tier approach to better direct state resources.

He reached across the aisle to work with Del. Tayloe Murphy, D-Westmoreland, to create the states multimillion-dollar Water Quality Improvement Fund, the primary financing mechanism for projects that cut pollution from wastewater plants and other facilities.

He also pushed for whats become a new approach to financing urgent but costly infrastructure: regional surcharges on sales and fuel taxes.

The first was in Hampton Roads, which is paying for expansion of the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel and paid for widening Interstate 64.

I got a lot of grief from Republicans: its a tax they said. ... I told them, weve spent years begging and whining and getting nowhere, its time for some self-help, Norment said.

When I drive on the HRBT past those pilings for the third crossing, when I see that third lane on I-64, I think I had something to do with that, he said.

And finally, one other accomplishment:

I was the one who started getting the Senate pages to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
Fresh off a convincing victory in the Democratic primary for the 9th Senate District, Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, turned the page to the next election to fill the seat held by Congresswoman-elect Jennifer McClellan, D-4th, and, likely, another primary to defend it in a new district.

Bagby appeared at state Democratic Party headquarters in Richmond on Monday morning, about 10 hours after he seized the partys nomination for the Senate seat with 72% of the vote after a lightning campaign against two formidable fellow Democrats.

He faces Republican nominee Steve Imholt in a special election on March 28 and then, if he prevails, another Democratic primary on June 20 in the newly drawn 14th Senate District, centered in Richmond instead of Henrico County.

I look forward to it all, Bagby said.

Henrico, one of four polling locations in the party-run firehouse primary, determined the outcome, giving Bagby a nearly 2,800-vote margin over runner-up Alexsis Rodgers.

But Rodgers ran close in Richmond, where she had finished second in the 2020 campaign for mayor and established herself as a voice for the partys progressive wing. Bagby edged her by 52 votes there. Del. Dawn Adams, a three-term delegate from Richmond, also had her best showing in the city, while receiving fewer than 500 votes in the primary.

Rodgers, chair of the 4th Congressional District Democratic Committee, congratulated Bagby and thanked her supporters for their work in a four-day campaign that began after Senate Democrats set the special election last week.

I personally understand what it takes to coordinate this type of election, so I am grateful for those in the party who are committed to our democratic processes, she said in a statement on Monday.

Adams called Bagby to congratulate him on the win and said on social media that she was in great company in campaigning against him and Rodgers.

It was a tough race, but Virginia was guaranteed a great outcome no matter the result, she said on Twitter.

Imholt, 70, was the only candidate to file for the Republican nomination on Saturday. Initially, party officials said no one had applied, but state GOP Chairman Rich Anderson said he was notified by the local party on Sunday, making Imholt the nominee without a contest. A resident of North Richmond, Imholt is a retired information technology project manager who still serves an adviser on software development and infrastructure, and works as a sales associate at Walmart.

Why? Because working in any form is something I found I enjoyed more than being retired, he said on his LinkedIn social media page.

Imholt ran as an independent against McClellan in the 71st House District in 2015. McClellan won with 88% of the vote. A little more than a year later, she won a special election for the 9th District Senate seat to succeed newly elected Rep. Donald McEachin, D-4th.

McEachins unexpected death on Nov. 28, three weeks after winning a fourth congressional term, set in motion a series of special elections and party primaries. McClellan clinched the Democratic congressional nomination in a four-way contest in December and cruised to a nearly 50-point victory over Republican Leon Benjamin on Feb. 21. She will resign her Senate seat by March 7.

State Democratic Party Chair Susan Swecker called the turnout for the smaller Senate primary comparable to the nearly 28,000 votes cast in the congressional primary, despite the short notice.

Were kind of ... getting used to this, Swecker said. Another day, another special election.

If Bagby wins his race against Imholt, Democrats will have to hold another nominating contest for a candidate to run in the 74th House District, centered in Henrico.

Democrats are intent on retaining McClellans seat before the General Assembly reconvenes for its veto session on April 12. Legislators will act on vetoes and amendments from Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican with a conservative legislative agenda that the Democratic-controlled Senate has mostly blocked with a self-proclaimed brick wall.

Were making sure we replace the brick in the Senate, Swecker said.

With the next campaign underway, Bagby will focus on his work as chairman of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, the importance of constituent service to residents of the district and pressing public needs such as affordable housing.

We need to talk about housing, he said.

Bagby said he will not take the special election for granted, even though the district is heavily Democratic.

Yesterday was great, he said, but it wasnt the Super Bowl.

From the Archives: Richmond buildings that are no longer around
(Image: The Edge Markets)

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has named Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) in Kuala Lumpur as Malaysias global financial hub, with Iskandar Malaysia in Johor set to also gain a special financial zone in a bid to boost its growth.

The government will mandate Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) as Malaysias global financial hub. TRX needs to attract the global financial industry to become the main destination for high-value foreign direct investment (FDI) that will strengthen our business ecosystem, said Datuk Seri Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, during the re-tabling of Budget 2023.

Previously known as the Kuala Lumpur International Financial District (KLIFD), TRX is already housing  or has seen investments from  several financial institutions, including banks and insurance companies. HSBC Bank, for instance, invested US$250 million to open its head office in Menara IQ within TRX just last year.

Similarly, Affin Bank also moved its headquarters to the districts Financial Quarter, back in June 2022. Prudential, too, unveiled its corporate head office at TRX in 2019, with its Menara Prudential being one of the first buildings to be completed and occupied in TRX.

Aside from that, the government also said that it is planning to boost the growth of Iskandar Malaysia, Johor, through the introduction of a special financial zone. Although there is not much information at the moment, Datuk Seri Anwar has said that this will involve offering a competitive incentive package to attract international investors and knowledge workers to call Malaysia their home.

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Customs at Cancun International seize bags of live sea cucumber bound for Montreal

Cancun, Q.R.  The National Customs Agency of Mexico has secured numerous bags of live sea cucumber from the Cancun International Airport. The marine animals were found Saturday during an x-ray of personal luggage heading to Montreal.

The National Guard made the arrest of the male passenger who owned the luggage. The unidentified passenger was intending to leave Cancun, bound for Montreal, with the endangered marine animals.

He was arrested for intending to transport protected and endangered marine species, the National Guard said in their press release.

The National Customs Agency of Mexico made the finding during a security inspection in the baggage reception area of the air terminal minutes before the departure of a flight to the city of Montreal, Quebec.

The bag containing the sea cucumbers was marked positive for a prohibited substance by an on-site K9. The luggage was then x-rayed and manually inspected after irregular images were detected in the x-ray.

In their press statement, the National Guard did not specify the nationality of the man arrested.
Mexico will remain in Peru despite Perus ambassador being withdrawn from Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico  Mexico says they will maintain representation in Peru despite Perus Ambassador being withdrawn from Mexico. Over the weekend, the SRE released a statement regarding the recent announcement made by the government of Peru.

In their statement, the Ministry of Foreign Relations (SRE) said The Government of Mexico, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, regrets the decision of the current government of the Republic of Peru to reduce the level of diplomatic relations between the two countries to that of Charge dAffaires and permanently withdraw Ambassador Manuel Gerardo Talavera, who was called for consultations on December 15, 2022.

The Government of Mexico will maintain its level of diplomatic and consular representation to promote ties between our peoples and provide care to the Mexican community in Peru, while reiterating its conviction to keep diplomatic communication channels open for the benefit of both societies.

Likewise, it hopes that a democratic agreement will soon be reached to the disagreements that prevail in this sister Latin American country.
Reports of catalytic converter thefts Friday in Blacksburg led to a vehicle chase and a search through the western sections of Montgomery County, the sheriffs office reported.

Somsay Inthisane, 36, and Cung Uk Lal, 30, both of Charlotte, North Carolina, were arrested after a pursuit that involved several law enforcement agencies, Lt. Mark Hollandsworth wrote in an email. They are being held without bond in the Montgomery County Jail.

Deputies spotted the two men Friday afternoon in a vehicle looked like one involved in the theft of catalytic converters earlier in the day, Hollandsworth wrote. Officers chased the vehicle down Prices Fork Road to Peppers Ferry Road. A high-speed pursuit then headed west toward Pulaski County before the suspect vehicle doubled back at the county line and went back up Prices Fork Road.

The vehicle turned onto McCoy Road and Keisters Branch Road, where a Christiansburg police officer used a spike strip to stop it, Hollandsworth wrote.

Both occupants took off on foot, but were apprehended a short time later without incident, Hollandsworth wrote.

Inthisane was charged with felony eluding, three counts of reckless driving and one count of obstructing justice for failing to identify himself, and Lal was charged with one count of obstructing justice for fleeing on foot, Hollandsworth wrote.

No charges have been placed so far in connection with the catalytic converter thefts, Hollandsworth wrote.
RADFORD  High-altitude balloons have all of a sudden gripped the countrys attention.

And they are at the center of an experiment being conducted by a small team of sixth-graders at Radfords Belle Heth Elementary School. The project is about improving the human conditionand not international espionage and the like.

In January, the Belle Heth students learned that they were among the 60 winning teams in the second NASA TechRise Student Challenge, a nationwide contest with a goal to engage students in technology, science and space exploration.

The contest was open to students in grades six through 12 at American public, private or charter schools, including those located in U.S. territories.

The victories paved the way for the winning teams, including the Belle Heth one, to work on building science and technology experiments in preparation for a suborbital flight test.

The winning proposals addressed an array of science and technology related challenges, according to an announcement about the TechRise contest. Those challenges include evaluating the effects of climate change; the protection of humans, electronics and various materials against radiation; testing machine learning and computing techniques for space technology; and supporting human health on long-duration space missions.

At Belle Heth, the team decided to study the germination of seeds under different atmospheric pressures and ultraviolet lights. The experiment involves looking at the seeds while theyre 70,000 feet in the air and comparing them with ones at ground level.

The Belle Heth students are specifically working with alfalfa and kale seeds.

We are experimenting with seed germination and what happens when seeds go into a different atmosphere [level], and were going to see what happens to the seeds  with different atmospheric pressures and UV light, said student Dominic Napolitano, who held a rectangular-shaped and clear payload box as his fellow team members looked on. And were going to plant them when they come back down, plant them with seeds that we already planted and see what happens when we plant them.

When asked why they were interested in this particular seed project, team member Mason Bell said they were inspired by the subject of growing plants in space. He said they saw it as an important topic.

In addition to being a subject that has been studied by NASA, the growth of plants outside of earth has been featured in popular culture through works of fiction such as The Martian movie, a 2015 film that was itself based on a novel of the same name.

Lane Sandoe, another student and team member, chimed in on the interest in looking at seeds in space.

There are results that show a colder environment can help seeds germinate faster, he said. Some types of seeds.

The six Belle Heth are part of the schools gifted program, said Emily Eagle, that programs coordinator for Radford City Public Schools.

The team is learning to code using CircuitPython, Eagle said. All the data collection in the project has to be programmed through a microcontroller, she said as she held up a circuit chip.

The microcontroller connects to sensors to measure temperature levels and humidity, Eagle said. In addition to the programming, the teams work includes the hooking up of the sensors, she said.

Along with the seeds, the microcontroller and a pair of cameras will go into the payload box, the students said.

The students, with support from professional engineers, will work on building out the experiment through the remainder of the school year in preparation for a high-altitude balloon flight test at some point this summer.

No exact flight date has been provided yet, but the project has a May 5 deadline, Eagle said this week. The balloon carrying the Belle Heth teams equipment will launch from Bismarck, North Dakota, she said.

Although live streaming will be available, the team hopes to watch the balloon launch in person, Eagle said.

Im very excited, and Im happy to see whats going to happen with working with my friends, said team member Luca Weightman. See if the plants grow differently. See if we can help other people maybe go into space later on.
Correction Feb. 28, 2023, 8:47 a.m.: The first name of John Edwards' wife, Cathye, was incorrect in an earlier version of this story. The story has bee updated.

After getting back home to Roanoke about 9 p.m. Saturday, after his 28th regular session in Virginias Senate had come to a close, John Edwards decided it was time to decide.

I guess theres a time for everything, Edwards said in a telephone interview from his law office Monday, the day he announced he would not seek another four-year term.

The time is right. Timing is everything in life. Ive been there for 28 sessions, and Ill still be there until January, said Edwards, who will turn 80 this October. Its been a long time, and Ive enjoyed every minute of it.

Edwards, who was first elected as a Democrat in 1995 after running on an education platform that included creating the Roanoke Higher Education Center, became the latest senior lawmaker to call it quits in recent days.

Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw, D-Fairfax, Senate Minority Leader Tommy Norment, R-James City, Del. Rob Bell, R-Albemarle, Del. Ken Plum, D-Fairfax, and Del. Kathy Byron, R-Bedford, have all said they would not seek reelection in new legislative districts drawn by the Virginia Supreme Court that paired dozens of incumbent lawmakers as potential opponents.

Edwards, who would have faced a general election contest against Sen. David Suetterlein, R-Roanoke County, said that was not the reason for his departure from politics.

And while some people have pointed out that he is nearing 80, Edwards joked that Biden is 10 and a half months older than I am  a reference to the U.S. presidents plans to seek reelection.

Suetterlein released a statement on Edwards' announcement:

"Senator John Edwards has dedicated his life to serving our community as a US Marine Corps JAG, United States Attorney, Roanoke City Councilman, and for 28 years in the Virginia Senate. He and I have very different views on many issues, but, more importantly, a shared love of the Roanoke Valley that allowed us to work together. One of the most recent examples of that shared love is the new neonatal intensive care unit being developed right now in Salem to help our youngest Virginians. I have great respect for Senator Edwards, and thank him for his dedication to the Commonwealth and his service to the people of our region."

Edwards said he had been thinking for some time about stepping down to make more time to practice law in Roanoke and travel with his family. After another long drive home from Richmond on Saturday night, he had a talk with his wife Cathye.

We decided together that now is the time to do it, he said.

Edwards, a soft-spoken Roanoke attorney who served as Western Virginias U.S. Attorney in 1980 and 1981 after being nominated by then-President Jimmy Carter, has held elective office continuously for three decades.

He was appointed to the Roanoke City Council in 1993, later winning a term as vice mayor. He gave up that position in 1996, after an upset win over Republican incumbent Brandon Bell gave Roanoke Valley Democrats a clean sweep in local General Assembly races.

Edwards  who as a freshman joined then-Del. Richard Cranwell, the late Del. Clifton Chip Woodrum and the late Del. Vic Thomas  went on to become the areas most senior legislator.

He said he never thought at the time that he would stay in office for so long.

One thing led to another, which led to another, Edwards said. Thats how it was. I always had something I wanted to do.

Over the years, Edwards continued his emphasis on education  pushing for higher teacher salaries and a character education program in state schools  advocated for Amtrak service to Roanoke, supported improvements to Interstate 81 and legislation to create highway safety corridors, and worked on changes to the criminal justice system that included the expansion of Virginias Court of Appeals.

He once planned to seek the Democratic nomination for attorney general, but concluded in 2005 that he could not devote enough time to mount a competitive campaign.

Over the years, Edwards has turned back several challenges in a Senate district that leans Democratic. Currently, the 21st District includes all of Roanoke city and Giles County and parts of Roanoke and Montgomery County, including Blacksburg.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my many years in the Senate and the honor and opportunity to improve the lives of my constituents and all Virginians, he wrote in an official announcement released Monday.

I appreciate the many who have urged me to seek another term, the statement continued. I look forward to continuing my law practice and to spending time traveling and with my family.

I am proud of the many accomplishments I have worked on and I look forward to continuing my work through the remainder of my term.
MARTINSVILLE  The Viirginia Department of Education (DOE) has rejected an application for $175,000 in state funding for a new lab school at the New College Institute (NCI).

In January, Gov. Glenn Youngkin joined with colleges and universities across the state in a partnership agreement to create K-12 lab schools.

Lab schools are K-12 schools established by postsecondary institutions to provide students an innovative, high-quality education experience, according to the DOE. Youngkin calls them the future of education.

An application process was established so that institutions interested in starting a lab school could submit requests for funding and $5 million was set aside to help those approved with their school design proposals. In order to be considered for a deeper pocket of $95 million in operating costs, an institutions initial application must pass.

But in a letter dated Feb. 9 from Assistant State Superintendent of Public Education Elizabeth Schultz to NCI Coordinator of K-12 Programs and Institutional Data Dr. Susheela Shanta, the application from NCI was turned down.

At this time, the Committee has reviewed and scored NCIs application. Based upon the information provided in the Planning Grant Application, a Planning Grant award is not able to be made at this time, the letter states.

Schultz admitted in the letter that NCI clearly has turnkey facilities at the ready and the community need for additional educational opportunities is expressed, but the request for funding did not make clear the goal or focus of the proposed lab school, lacked documentation of partnerships mentioned, failed to provide evidence of engaged stakeholders, lacked evidence and clarity in its stated program description goal and timeline, and failed to provide evidence of how students for the new lab school will be recruited.

NCI may revisit and resubmit its Planning Grant Application at a later date, the letter stated, but did not make clear how much time may be required to have elapsed before a second attempt may be made.
WALTERBORO, S.C.  A defense expert in Alex Murdaughs double murder trial says he thinks two different shooters killed the disgraced attorneys wife and son. The idea of two killers has hovered over the trial because two different weapons were used and theres no evidence either victim tried to defend themselves. Crime scene expert Tim Palmbach was the first witness to suggest the theory in testimony. Palmbach says the theory is mostly common sense. Also on Monday, the judge agreed with a defense request to let jurors travel to see the Murdaugh home. The date for that visit has not been set.

A defense expert in the double murder trial of disgraced South Carolina attorney Alex Murdaugh testified Monday that he thinks two different shooters killed Murdaughs wife and son.

While the idea has hovered over the trial because two different weapons were used and no evidence has been presented suggesting either victim tried to defend themselves, crime scene expert Tim Palmbach was the first witness to suggest the two-killer theory in testimony.

Investigators have said 52-year-old Maggie Murdaugh was shot four or five times with a rifle, while 22-year-old Paul Murdaugh was killed by two shotgun blasts near kennels on the familys sprawling Colleton County property on June 7, 2021.

Also on Monday, the judge agreed to a defense request to let the jury visit the family property and see the crime scene for themselves before they deliberate Alex Murdaughs fate. The date for that trip has not been set.

Murdaugh, 54, is charged with murder in the deaths of his wife and son. He faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted. Before the jury visit issue came up, both sides suggested that closing statements and deliberations could begin this week.

Palmbach testified Monday that the likelihood of two shooters was mostly common sense. All evidence so far has indicted the two people killed were shot close to the same time. They stopped using their cellphones within seconds of each other. Both victims appeared to be surprised, with their hands down and no evidence either of them tried to come to the others aid or was running away.

The second, fatal shotgun blast to Paul Murdaughs head was at close range, meaning blood, skull fragments, other matter and possibly pellets would have been launched back at the shooter, Palmbach said.

That shooter minimally was stunned  probably blood and material in his eyes and maybe have been injured and would have taken some degree of time to recover, Palmbach said.

Also, carrying two long guns would have been cumbersome and awkward given that the rifle used to kill Maggie Murdaugh could have had a clip that carried 20 to 30 bullets. You cant handle and shoot both of them, he said.

An important part of Alex Murdaughs defense is to show that investigators failed to thoroughly collect crime scene evidence and to sow doubt about expert testimony for the prosecution stating that authorities did everything possible to find the killer.

The defense also used Mondays testimony to point out that neither weapon used in the shootings has been found, that state agents at the scene didnt look for footprints or fingerprints and that no evidence of blood, brain matter or other material from the killings were found on Murdaugh or his clothes.

The shooter would have been literally covered in all that material, Palmbach said.

There were only 16 minutes between the time the victims stopped using their cellphones and when Alex Murdaugh left his house about 1,100 feet (335 meters) from the crime scene to visit his ailing mother. He called 911 when he found the bodies shortly after returning home.

In cross-examination, prosecutors focused on Palmbachs analysis that the fatal shotgun blast was fired from above Paul Murdaughs head, even though hair, blood and other material was found on the ceiling above in a storage closet the family called the feed room.

Palmbach said the force of gases from the shotgun blast was like a bomb inside the enclosed skull, sending particles out of the same hole the shot created.

Alex Murdaugh cried several times during the graphic testimony. Monitors the courtroom audience can use to see evidence were covered as they have been whenever crime scene and autopsy photos are shown.

After five weeks inside the Colleton County courthouse, jurors will soon visit the crime scene. Judge Clifton Newman agreed with a defense request to let them go to the Murdaughs home, called Moselle.

Defense attorney Dick Harpootlian said Monday that its important for the jury to see how small the feed room is  and where the feed room is compared to Maggies body.

You just cant really appreciate the spatial issues without really seeing them, he said.

Prosecutors told the judge that they didnt want the jury to visit because it has been 20 months since the killings and it looks different.

Prosecutor Creighton Waters said trees planted between the Murdaugh home and the kennels shortly before the killings have grown taller and thicker.

If anything, that would require additional testimony because the scene is different, Waters said on the trials 25th day.

Newman said he usually allows a visit if either side requests it. Only the jury, the judge, lawyers, and police and security personnel can be there.

The judge agreed with Harpootlians request for Colleton County deputies to provide additional security on the property, which is currently under contract with a buyer for $3.9 million.

The defense lawyer said over the weekend that several trespassers were found taking selfies outside the feed room where Paul Murdaugh died.

Its the most distasteful thing weve ever seen, Harpootlian said.
 SCOTUS grants certiorari to review reach of FIRST STEP Act's expansion of statutory safety valve | Main | "Revocation at the Founding" 

Alabama had two botched lethal injection executions back in Fall 2022, which prompted its Governor to order a review of execution protocols and operation. As detailed in this local article, headlined "Executions back on in Alabama after brief moratorium," Alabama has completed that review and will now try to get back to conducting executions:

Executions are back on in Alabama. According to an email from Gov. Kay Iveys communications director, Ivey received a letter Friday from Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hamm. Hamm told the governor that the top-to-bottom review of the states execution process is complete.

Upon receiving word from Commissioner Hamm, Governor Kay Ivey asked Attorney General Steve Marshall to ask the Supreme Court to issue an execution warrant for an eligible death row inmate whenever he deems appropriate, said Iveys Communications Director Gina Maiola. In a letter to Marshall, Ivey said, it is time to resume our duty of carrying out lawful death sentences.

On Friday afternoon, Marshall announced on social media that he filed a motion seeking the Alabama Supreme Court to set an execution date for James Barber. Barber has been on death row since 2004 for the fatal beating of 75-year-old Dorothy Epps. Marshall added that his office will be seeking death warrants for other murderers in short order.

No details were provided as to what was learned during the internal review of the execution process, but Hamm wrote that the ADOC has ordered and obtained new equipment for future executions....

On Nov. 21, following two failed execution attempts, Ivey ordered a halt to all executions in Alabama. Working in conjunction with Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hamm, Governor Ivey is asking that the Department of Corrections undertake a top-to-bottom review of the states execution process, and how to ensure the state can successfully deliver justice going forward, a press release from that day stated. Ivey also asked the Alabama AGs office to not seek additional execution dates for any other Alabama Death Row inmates until the review is complete.

The announcement of a halt to executions came just days after Kenneth Smiths execution was called off just before midnight on Nov. 17. The state called off the lethal injection after not being able to find veins to start the intravenous lines needed for the three-drug cocktail, which had to be done before midnight when the execution warrant expired. Another execution -- that of Alan Miller -- was called off in September for similar reasons.

The only change publicly known to Alabamas execution protocol that was made during the three-month moratorium was a change made by the Alabama Supreme Court, ending the midnight deadline. The states highest court authorized a rule change allowing for an execution warrant to be issued for a time frame rather than a single day. The rule means the governor can choose the timing of an execution, according to the courts order....

There are currently 166 inmates sitting on Alabama Death Row.

In his letter to Ivey announcing the end of the internal review, Hamm said, After discussing the matter with my staff, I am confident that the Department is as prepared as possible to resume carrying out executions consistent with the mandates of the Constitution. This is true in spite of the fact that death row inmates will continue seeking to evade their lawfully imposed death sentences.
MONDAY, Feb. 27, 2023 (HealthDay News)  Federal officials plan to tighten access to drugs that have the potential for abuse by reinstating federal prescribing requirements that were loosened during the pandemic.

The Biden administration will require that patients see a doctor in person, rather than through a telehealth appointment, to get a first prescription for opioid painkillers and the attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) drugs like Adderall and Ritalin.

Prescription refills will still be allowed during telehealth appointments, however.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration also plans to tighten prescribing for less addictive drugs, such as codeine, Xanax, Ambien and buprenorphine.

Those drugs will be allowed to be prescribed once via telehealth for a 30-day dose, but then patients will need to see a doctor in person to get a refill.

Codeine is used to reduce pain and coughing. Xanax is an anxiety medication. Ambien is a sleep aid. Buprenorphine is used to treat opioid addiction.

The DEA plans for this new rule to go into effect before May 11, when the COVID-19 public health emergency expires.

DEA is committed to ensuring that all Americans can access needed medications, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram said in an agency news release announcing the changes. DEA is committed to the expansion of telemedicine with guardrails that prevent the online overprescribing of controlled medications that can cause harm.

It will be important for people needing these medications to plan for a visit to a doctor before then, a bigger barrier for those who live in rural areas.

Patients will need to see their doctor in person within six months after the rule goes into effect.

Providers and their patients need to know what that treatment is going to look like moving forward and whether, once the public health emergency ends in May, if theyre going to need to figure out a way to have a visit in person before continuing treatment, and that can be a real challenge, Boston-based attorney Jeremy Sherer, who represents telehealth companies, told the Associated Press.

Other common prescriptions, including birth control, antibiotics, insulin and skin creams will still be allowed to be prescribed through telehealth appointments.

The DEA is concerned that some in a new booming industry of startup telehealth companies are improperly prescribing addictive substances, including opioids and ADHD medication the AP reported.

Both sides of this tension have really good points, David Herzberg, a historian of drugs at the University of Buffalo in New York, told the AP. You dont want barriers in the way of getting people prescriptions they need. But anytime you remove those barriers, its also an opportunity for profit seekers to exploit the lax rules and sell the medicines to people who may not need them.

A U.S. drug overdose crisis continues, starting with prescription opioids which have given way to deadly synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Overdose deaths hit record numbers in 2021, the AP reported.

More information

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has more on telehealth.

SOURCE: Associated Press
LE MARS, Iowa -- A juvenile male has been charged in the armed robbery that occurred at a convenience shop on Sunday morning.

At around 8:22 a.m. Sunday, the 16-year-old entered the Brew Coffee Shop, 346 Plymouth St. S.W., displaying a handgun to employees.

According to the Le Mars Police Department, the suspect allegedly cut phone lines, threatened and detained employees for 20 minutes, before stealing money, liquor and personal items from them.

The suspect fled on foot and Le Mars Police were able to track his movement with the help of business and residential video cameras. Officers also investigated several tips which led them to a residence on Third Ave. N.W., where the juvenile was taken into custody.

Stolen items were recovered and so was a replica handgun that was allegedly used in the commission of the crime.

The Le Mars Police Department was assisted by the Plymouth County Sheriff's Office, the Iowa State Patrol and community members in this investigation.
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HARTINGTON, Neb.  Arguments to dismiss charges against a woman accused of playing a role in a Laurel, Nebraska, quadruple homicide have been delayed while court transcripts are prepared and delivered to her attorney.

Carrie Jones was scheduled to appear Monday in Cedar County District Court for a plea in abatement hearing in which her attorney was to seek dismissal of her charges because, he said in a motion filed last week, prosecutors did not present adequate evidence during a preliminary hearing to show there was probable cause that Jones aided and abetted her husband in the Aug. 4 shooting death of Gene Twiford in his Laurel home.

Defense attorney Douglas Stratton had requested a transcript of the Feb. 15 preliminary hearing, and on Friday he asked for a continuance of Mondays hearing to provide more time for the transcripts preparation. District Judge Bryan Meismer rescheduled the hearing for March 27.

Jones, 43, of Laurel, is charged with first-degree murder, tampering with physical evidence and being an accessory to a felony. Her case was bound over to district court after the preliminary hearing in which investigators testified Jones had told them Twiford had verbally harassed her for three years and had asked her husband to do something about it. Prosecutors have argued Jones encouraged her husband to kill Twiford.

Jones attorneys argued prosecutors hadnt shown Jones persuaded her husband to kill Twiford.

Twiford, 86, was found shot to death, along with his wife, Janet, 85, and their daughter Dana Twiford, 55, in their burning home at 503 Elm St. in the early morning hours of Aug. 4, shortly after firefighters and emergency personnel responding to a fire at 209 Elm St. and found the body of Michele Ebeling, 53, who also had been shot. Ebeling lived across the street from Carrie and Jason Jones.

Jason Jones, 42, is charged with four counts each of first-degree murder and use of a firearm to commit a felony and two counts of first-degree arson.

Prosecutors have filed notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Jason Jones if hes found guilty of first-degree murder. His attorney has filed a motion to quash portions of Nebraskas death penalty statute, saying theyre unconstitutional.
SIOUX CITY -- Two Siouxland fugitives who had been on the lam since 2020 are back in police custody, according to the U.S. Marshals Service Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force.

Phillip Pringle, who was wanted by the U.S. Marshals Service for violating his pretrial release, was arrested by the task force on Feb. 13 in Otho, Iowa, a city in Webster County near Fort Dodge.

Pringle had been on pretrial release for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He he had been on the run since October of 2020.

Duran Medina was arrested on Feb. 21, after a Plymouth County Sheriff's deputy observed him getting out of vehicle in Akron, Iowa.

Medina, who was convicted of habitual offender (property) and other crimes in Woodbury County, failed to report back to the Sioux City Residential Treatment Facility as required in September 2020.
Derrick Coley, 27, entered his written plea Monday in Woodbury County District Court to charges of third-degree sexual abuse and assault with the intent to commit sexual abuse causing bodily injury.

According to court documents, Coley had met the woman on Facebook two weeks earlier and traveled to Sioux City to meet her on Feb. 7.

The following night, police were dispatched to a disturbance in the 600 block of Hornick Avenue, where the woman told officers Coley had punched her in the face, forced her to get undressed and then raped her. The woman was taken to a hospital and treated for a broken nose.
SIOUX CITY -- The Sioux City Council will be asked to approve a rezoning request Monday, so that a strip mall and restaurant can be built on a 2.79-acre tract of land on Floyd Boulevard.

Sioux City businessman Dolf Ivener is asking that 2809 Floyd Boulevard, which is currently zoned Business Park, be rezoned as General Commercial, according to city documents.

Restaurants are prohibited in Business Park. General Commercial allows for a broad range of smaller and larger scale commercial use types situated on parcels that have onsite parking.

The documents state that the rezoning request is consistent with the city's comprehensive plan, while the proposed land use, a strip mall, is consistent with several new developments along Floyd Boulevard.

Homes on Anna Court would be 35 or more feet above the commercial development and should have no impact on future residential development in that area, according to the documents.

"This makes a nice flat area for commercial development. There is a 35-foot elevation change in the rear of the lot that will buffer the commercial development area from the future residences on Anna Circle," the documents state.

The main access point to the site from Floyd Boulevard would likely be at least 200 feet north of Blue Drive, according to the documents. Currently, there is no sidewalk along Floyd Boulevard. A 10-foot-wide sidewalk would be required if the strip mall is built.

"Depending on grade and the final location of the detention pond there may be an access to the site from Blue Drive at least 40 feet west of Floyd Boulevard," the documents state.
SIOUX CITY -- Authorities have released the name of the suspect and victim of a fatal stabbing on 11th Street Friday night.

The victim was William Anthony Harlan Jr., 48, listed in court documents as a transient of Sioux City.

Sioux City Police have arrested Nathaniel John Parker III, 30, of Sioux City, in connection with the stabbing. He faces charges including first-degree murder and possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine).

Officers were dispatched to an apartment building at 414 11th St., Sioux City, at around 9:48 p.m. Friday and found Harlan suffering "multiple stab wounds," according to a Sioux City Police press release. He was taken to MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

According to a criminal complaint filed in the case, officers found Harlan "just inside the door" of apartment #6, having been stabbed and apparently unconscious. Three other males were inside the apartment, including Parker, who was "attempting to conceal himself in the bathroom," according to the complaint.

Harlan had been seen getting into the back seat of a vehicle at 623 14th St. at around 9:20 p.m. Friday, shortly before the stabbing; the vehicle drove to the apartment building. While they were in the vehicle together, Parker stabbed Harlan three times in the upper-left chest, according to the criminal complaint. Parker then pulled Harlan from the vehicle, carried him several feet and threw him to the ground.

Parker and another male were seen carrying Harlan into the apartment. Video surveillance footage showed "a long bayonet style knife" sticking out of Parker's coat pocket. Officers later found the knife, wrapped in a red shirt that appeared to be wet with blood, concealed in the ceiling tiles of apartment #6. Officers also learned that Parker had been showing the knife off to other people in the day before the incident.

During an interview with police, Parker admitted he was high and that he had methamphetamine on him, hidden "between his buttocks," according to another criminal complaint. A small bag of a white crystalline substance that tested positive for methamphetamine, weighing about 0.85 grams, was found.
Laurie Campbell wants to forgive James Wel for what the 41-year-old Lincoln man took from her family.

But at Wel's sentencing hearing Friday  more than a year after his car struck Russell Boardman, an 83-year-old pedestrian who died of the injuries he suffered  Campbell wasn't yet ready to administer absolution, she said.

"It's been a long year," she told Judge Joseph Dalton. "A lot of therapy; grief therapy for me. I'm still trying to find the grace in my heart."

Then Campbell, one of two daughters Boardman left behind, turned away from the judge and toward Wel, who a jury found guilty of motor vehicle homicide in Boardman's death following a trial last month.

"Mr. Wel, I am Russell George Boardman's youngest daughter and what I would like to say to you is that I not only know what you may have been struggling with as the individual that hit my father, but there was a whole other side that this has affected," she said, minutes before Dalton sentenced Wel to probation.

"I hope you understand the effect that it has had not only on my father's siblings, his daughters, his grandchildren," she said, her voice breaking. "It was also something that didn't have to happen. It just didn't have to."

Campbell's address Friday came a year and a day after her father's death, which followed a nearly two-month hospital stay in the aftermath of the Jan. 8, 2022, crash. Boardman died Feb. 23.

He was crossing South Street in a marked crosswalk with his arms full of groceries when Wel, driving a Chevy Equinox, struck Boardman near the road's intersection with 15th Street in what prosecutors described Friday as a "tragic" accident.

Wel told the officer at the scene  and the jury last month  that he stepped on the brakes to try to stop, but he couldn't in time.

He wasn't under the influence of drugs or alcohol or driving distracted when his car struck Boardman in a marked crosswalk, police said in the crash report.

And Wel's attorney, Matt Kosmicki, argued at the trial that there wasn't any evidence Wel had been driving carelessly or negligently. The sky was dark. Boardman was wearing dark clothes and crossed without looking for cars, he said.

"Sometimes people can use all care that is expected of them and an accident still happens," Kosmicki said then.

Deputy County Attorney James Morris said Friday that all sides had acknowledged the deadly crash was unintentional and that there was no indication Wel had been driving "egregiously (or) horribly."

"We've all seen those cases," Morris said. "I think we all agree this isn't one of those cases.

"But at the end of the day, Mr. Boardman did everything right. He was in the crosswalk as he was supposed to be. And, unfortunately, Mr. Wel struck him and killed him."

Kosmicki, who noted that the Department of Motor Vehicles would revoke Wel's license for six months regardless of the judge's sentence because of the Class 1 misdemeanor violation, asked Dalton for leniency, but requested no specific sentence on behalf of Wel, who declined to address the court.

In his ruling, Dalton seemed to try to strike a balance between penalty and sympathy, eschewing jail time but sentencing Wel to two years of probation and a $1,000 fine  the maximum probation period and monetary punishment allowed by law.

Dalton also ordered Wel to attend a victim impact panel, take a driver's safety course and complete 80 total hours of community service during Boardman's birth and death months over the next two years.

And the judge urged Wel to take to heart Campbell's earlier address, imploring him to consider the "palpable" hurt the crash brought Boardman's family and to be cognizant of his surroundings every time he drives.

"This accident did not need to happen, sir," the judge said.
The economic impacts on Nebraska from a nationwide shift to renewable energy should be studied, Sen. Bruce Bostelman told a panel of lawmakers Friday.

Bostelman told the Legislature's Executive Board he wanted an independent consultant to look at the short- and long-term costs of replacing coal, natural gas and other plants with resources like wind and solar.

His bill (LB566) would appropriate $30,000 to examine the trends and potential economic impact of growing reliance of renewable energy sources in Nebraska.

It would also look at the economic benefits of maintaining coal, natural gas and nuclear plants, as well as whether or not the current shift toward more renewable resources "threatens the ability of power suppliers in the state to maintain existing baseload generation."

"As energy policy around the nation is shifting to a more diverse set of generation sources, it is prudent for the Natural Resources Committee to examine the potential effects of those policies," Bostelman told the Executive Board.

The shift to more renewable resources  what the Brainard senator referred to as "intermittent generation facilities"  could impact the lives of thousands of Nebraskans, he added, and could also affect the state's ability to ensure electricity is there when Nebraskans need it.

But a trio of Omaha high school students, all part of Students for Sustainability, a chapter of Fridays for Future, part of a global movement started by environmental activist Greta Thunberg, told senators they thought the scope of the study was far too narrow and that the result was pre-determined based on the language of the bill.

Mia Perales, a student from Omaha South High School, said the proposed study appears poised to ignore previous reports that show the cost of generating electricity from renewable resources like solar and wind has dropped 80% in the last decade.

She said Nebraska has already fallen behind states like Iowa, which have become champions of renewable energy.

"A lot of people in Nebraska, politicians specifically, want to know why young Nebraskans are leaving," Perales said. "I can tell you it's not because the price of property taxes are raising, it is because our voices aren't being heard and they aren't being taken seriously."

Omaha Central student Hunter Oakley told lawmakers the language in LB566 showed a "blatant bias." The study would examine the negative economic impacts of renewable energy without doing the same for coal and gas, he said.

And Chloe Johnson, also a student at Omaha Central, said days like Friday in Nebraska, where it was cold but also sunny and breezy, would be ideal for solar and wind generation.

"While it makes it pretty miserable to be outside right now, it is a huge asset to our economy that is going underutilized," Johnson said, adding the bill would put Nebraska further behind its neighboring states in renewable energy generation than it already is.

"There is a clear purpose to how this bill is written," she said. "It is only looking at the negatives of renewables and the positives of fossil fuels because the person who wrote this bill knew that if it were a direct comparison, renewables would win economically and morally."

Following the testifiers, Bostelman said the study was intended to take a snapshot of Nebraska's current power generation and look at potential costs and risks associated with current trends.

Answering a question from Omaha Sen. Tony Vargas, Bostelman said he was amenable to expanding the scope of the study to include other factors.

The Executive Board did not take any action on Bostelman's bill Friday.

Top Journal Star photos for February 2023
Members of Nebraskas Ukrainian community gathered outside the state Capitol on Saturday in remembrance of one of the darkest days in their countrys history.

On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, one that continues today and has left thousands dead. For Ukrainians living in Nebraska, the last year has been one of the hardest of their lives.

Last year, for us, was like 100 years, Mykhailo Smyshliaiev said.

Smyshliaiev, a Ukraine native who's lived in Lincoln 15 years, has helped organize weekly gatherings outside the Capitol since the war began to show support for Ukraine.

Saturdays event featured speakers and photos detailing the severity of the conflict. One photo showed a horrific scene in Smyshliaievs hometown of Kherson, which was bombed by Russians on Christmas Eve.

Since the first day of the war, Kherson was under occupation for eight months, Smyshliaiev said. My in-laws stayed there during that time.

He said Kherson has since been liberated by Ukrainian troops. His in-laws performed heroic acts over the last eight months while the city was occupied by Russia. Smyshliaievs father-in-law is a pastor in Kherson, and he said the church fed members of the community while stores were closed.

The church bought their food from farmers, and weve raised money here to send back to them so that they can feed children and elders in the community, Smyshliaiev said.

Nebraska-based Ukrainians expressed their appreciation for the communitys support, particularly for the sizable gathering Saturday.

Its very cool to see how the Lincoln community supports this cause ... its very heartwarming, Constantine Syniy said. Ukraine is 1,000 miles away, but still people in the great city of Lincoln care about us.

Syniy, who's lived in Lincoln 20 years and is the owner of All-Pro Heating and Air Conditioning, has family in Kherson like Smyshliaiev. Both expressed gratitude that their families have remained safe, but staying in contact with them over the last year has been stressful.

We have an app to communicate with our family members back home, Syniy said. The ringtone from the app used to give me joy, because you know your family members are posting something. Now the same ringtone brings me worry and anxiety, because you hope its not bad news.

Despite the difficulties Ukrainians have endured over the last year, event organizers wanted to highlight the resiliency of the country Saturday.

This is a year that the civilized world witnessed the resilience of the Ukrainian nation, Oleg Stepanyuk said. The world witnessed unspoken courage in their fight for freedom, democracy and independence."

Stepanyuk is an associate pastor at the House of Prayer Church in Lincoln and delivered a passionate speech about how Ukrainians have remained united in the face of adversity.

Stepanyuk then led the group in prayer. Not only did he offer prayers for Ukraine, those lost in the war and those with family members in Ukraine, he also prayed for Russia.

I pray that God gives that nation the change of heart and repentance so they can see what they did, Stepanyuk said.

As the conflict enters its second year, Lincoln's Ukrainians said they're hoping for a peaceful end to the war, along with continued support from nations like the U.S.

We want to remind everybody that lives in Lincoln, lives in Nebraska, lives in the United States, that the war is still going, Smyshliaiev said. The support weve received is incredible. Were thankful for that, but we want to remind people to continue to pray, continue to help those in great need in Ukraine.

Photos: Prayer rally at Nebraska Capitol marks a year of war in Ukraine
LONDON  Publisher Penguin Random House said it will publish "classic" unexpurgated versions of Roald Dahl's children's novels after it received criticism for cuts and rewrites that were intended to make the books suitable for modern readers.

Along with the new editions, the company said 17 of Dahl's books will be published in their original form later this year as "The Roald Dahl Classic Collection" so "readers will be free to choose which version of Dahl's stories they prefer."

The move came after criticism of changes were made to "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and other much-loved classics for recent editions published under the company's Puffin children's label, in which passages relating to weight, mental health, gender and race were altered.

Augustus Gloop, Charlie's gluttonous antagonist in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"  originally published in 1964  became "enormous" rather than "enormously fat." In "Witches," an "old hag" became an "old crow," and a supernatural female posing as an ordinary woman may be a "top scientist or running a business" instead of a "cashier in a supermarket or typing letters for a businessman."

In "Fantastic Mr. Fox," the word "black" was removed from a description of "murderous, brutal-looking" tractors.

The Roald Dahl Story Company, which controls the rights to the books, said it worked with Puffin to review and revise the texts because it wanted to ensure that "Dahl's wonderful stories and characters continue to be enjoyed by all children today."

While tweaking old books for modern sensibilities is not a new phenomenon, the scale of the edits drew strong criticism from free-speech groups such as writers' organization PEN America, and from authors including Salman Rushdie.

Rushdie, who lived under a death threat from Iran's Islamic regime for years because of the alleged blasphemy of his novel "The Satanic Verses," called the revisions "absurd censorship."

Rushdie, who was attacked and seriously injured last year at an event in New York state, tweeted news of Penguin's change of heart on Friday with the words "Penguin Books back down after Roald Dahl backlash!"

PEN America chief executive Suzanne Nossel wrote on Twitter: "I applaud Penguin for hearing out critics, taking the time to rethink this, and coming to the right place."

Camilla, Britain's queen consort, appeared to offer her view at a literary reception Thursday. She urged writers to "remain true to your calling, unimpeded by those who may wish to curb the freedom of your expression or impose limits on your imagination."

Dahl's books, with their mischievous children, strange beasts and often beastly adults, have sold more than 300 million copies and continue to be read by children around the world. Their multiple stage and screen adaptations include "Matilda the Musical" and two "Willy Wonka" films based on "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," with a third in the works.

In 2021, Dahl's estate sold the rights to the books to Netflix, which plans to produce a new generation of films based on the stories.

But Dahl, who died in 1990, is also a controversial figure because of antisemitic comments made throughout his life. His family apologized in 2020.

Francesca Dow, managing director of Penguin Random House Children's, said the publisher "listened to the debate over the past week which has reaffirmed the extraordinary power of Roald Dahl's books and the very real questions around how stories from another era can be kept relevant for each new generation."

"Roald Dahl's fantastic books are often the first stories young children will read independently," she said, "and taking care for the imaginations and fast-developing minds of young readers is both a privilege and a responsibility."

"We also recognize the importance of keeping Dahl's classic texts in print," Dow said. "By making both Puffin and Penguin versions available, we are offering readers the choice to decide how they experience Roald Dahl's magical, marvelous stories."

These were the top 10 books people wanted removed from schools and libraries in 2021 1. 'Gender Queer' by Maia Kobabe 2. 'Lawn Boy' by Jonathan Evison 3. 'All Boys Arent Blue' by George M. Johnson 4. 'Out of Darkness' by Ashley Hope Perez 5. 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas 6. 'The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian' by Sherman Alexie 7. 'Me and Earl and the Dying Girl' by Jesse Andrews 8. 'The Bluest Eye' by Toni Morrison 9. 'This Book is Gay' by Juno Dawson 10. 'Beyond Magenta' by Susan Kuklin
Black Panther, the latest entry in Marvels shared cinematic universe, is a remarkable feat of world building and visual craft. Its setting, the fictional central African nation of Wakanda, is a technologically advanced wonderland light years ahead of the rest of the world that lives and breathes unlike anything weve seen from Marvel Studios or the superhero genre at large. Its protagonist, King TChallawho fights in defense of his nation as the Black Panther, equipped with a bulletproof suit and imbued with enhanced strength, speed, and agilityis played with both regal confidence and real vulnerability by the versatile Chadwick Boseman.

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But what drives Black Panther isnt its visuals or superheroics. What drives the film is its pursuit of the idea that arguably defines the superhero genre, best articulated in 1962s Amazing Fantasy No. 15: With great power comes great responsibility. And what makes Black Panther unique is that it pursues this in the context of its characters and its setting. It asks not just, What is TChallas responsibility to Wakanda? but What is Wakandas responsibility to the world?

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First, the basics. Black Panther is unmistakably a film from Marvel Studios, with all the humor, action, and callbacks to past movies that act as a connective tissue between the different entries in its megafranchise. But it strains against that template. Throughout the movie, director Ryan Coogler delivers moments that feel as rooted and personal as anything in his previous films, while building environments that carry a real sense of atmosphere and place. Wakanda is fantastical, but in Cooglers hands it feels as real and as lived in as the Oakland, California, of Fruitvale Station or the Philadelphia of Creed, the two films he wrote and directed before signing up with Marvel.

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With Killmonger, Coogler and Jordan give us the single most compelling villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Chadwick Boseman anchors the film, but he is nearly upstaged by an impressive cast of cinematic veterans and relative newcomers. Lupita Nyongo shines as Nakia, TChallas close confidante who hopes to see her country take a larger role in the world. The Walking Deads Danai Gurira gives what ought to be a star-making turn as Okoye, the fierce leader of Wakandas royal guard. Letitia Wright steals the lions share of the movies laughs as Shuri, TChallas younger sister and a technological wunderkind who develops the tools and weapons deployed by her brother. (It is worth noting here that this is probably the first movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in which women drive the story and plot as much as their male counterparts.) Angela Bassett, Forest Whitaker, and Andy Serkis give more than capable performances, as they are wont to do, and Sterling K. Brown makes an unexpected, moving appearance as an important relative of the king.

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The most dynamic performance, however, comes from Michael B. Jordan, a longtime collaborator of Cooglers who dominates the screen as Erik Killmonger, TChallas chief rival. With Killmonger, Coogler and Jordan give us the single most compelling villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Its not just Jordans muscular build and physical presence. Its the fire in his eyes. Driven by pain, anger, and ideology, this is a character who believes in his cause with an almost religious fervor. And critically, its hard to say that hes wrong.

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Which gets us back to the ideas in Black Panther. The plot is straightforward. Set shortly after the events of Captain America: Civil War, the film begins as TChalla prepares to take the mantle of king. When an old and dangerous adversary appears on Wakandas radarcarrying a stolen cache of vibranium, the fictional metal that is the source of the nations wealththe new monarch springs into action, hoping to bring him to justice while securing Wakandas future and continued secrecy. But his path crosses with Killmonger, who hopes to use Wakandas power and technological prowess to spark a revolution of oppressed peoples around the world, exporting weapons and assistance to those who suffer under the boot of racial oppression.

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From the view of the American-born Killmonger, Wakanda and its leaders are morally bankrupt. Theyve isolated themselves with their wealth and technology, indifferent to the fate of the African diaspora. They have great power, but they wont take responsibility, cloistering themselves away from the world, when they could rule it, inverting racial and colonial hierarchies. The sun will never set on the Wakandan empire, declares Killmonger at one point in the film, imagining a future where an unconquered people become conquerors themselves in the service of liberation.

Black Panther is the most political movie ever produced by Marvel Studios.

Its a provocation that flows directly from the premise. If there were a Wakandaa powerful African nation that never experienced colonization and white supremacywouldnt it have an obligation to those African peoples, and their descendants, who lacked the resources to defend themselves? And if it took revolutionary action to liberate them, wouldnt that revolution be justified, just desserts after centuries of theft and bloodshed? Killmonger, a man who has experienced racism intimately, says yes. TChalla, privileged to have never experienced the sting of color caste, says no. And Nakia, who has traveled the continent and believes Wakanda has a humanitarian duty to the world, plots a middle course. With great power, what exactly is the responsibility?

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Of course, Black Panther isnt a political thriller. These conflicts and tensions play out in action as much as dialogue, and the ideas come naturally. There are no mouthpieces speaking on behalf of the writers. But it is fair to say that Black Panther is the most political movie ever produced by Marvel Studios, both in its very existenceits the most expensive movie to have ever starred an almost entirely black castand in the questions its story raises. Indeed, the ideas are almost too big: There are times when you wish they, and the characters, had more space to breathe.

The best superhero films dont transcend the genre as much as they embrace it in all its respects. Richard Donners Superman: The Movie captured the wonder and optimism of the Superman mythos. Sam Raimis Spider-Man 2 did the same, fully realizing the earnest melodrama and quotidian feel of Stan Lee and Steve Ditkos first comics. Christopher Nolans The Dark Knight distills both Batman and the Joker to their cores and raised the bar for what this kind of blockbuster could accomplish.

With its aesthetic ambition, depth of imagination, and genuinely challenging themes, Black Panther belongs with this group. It doesnt just capture the essential qualities of the character, it expands on the concept itself, standing as a film that matters for what it says as much as what it is.

Black Panther could have been just another Marvel rompa fun but ultimately disposable entry in the studios catalogue. But Ryan Coogler and company had the power, and perhaps the responsibility, to do much more. And they did.

Read more in Slate about Black Panther.
You always knew who your character was when they sent you the sides, said Robert Townsend of the frustration he felt as a young Black actor auditioning in Hollywood. The name was like, Eight Ball, Boot, Midnight, Licorice.  That frustration fueled Townsends directorial debut, the furious 1987 satire Hollywood Shuffle, which ruthlessly lampooned the industrys treatment of Black actors and Black stories. Townsend plays aspiring actor Bobby Taylor, auditioning to be the hero of a trashy ghetto drama called Jivetime Jimmys Revenge. Townsend trained at Chicagos Second City, and Hollywood Shuffle, which he co-wrote with Keenen Ivory Wayans, is at heart a collection of sharply drawn comedy sketches, including a noir parody, a hilarious lineup of actors trying to be an Eddie Murphy type, and the indelible Black Acting School.

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Hollywood Shuffle changed things for Townsend: He went on to a long career, directing everything from Eddie Murphy Raw to The Five Heartbeats and creating and starring in five seasons of the WB sitcom The Parent Hood. Slate named Hollywood Shuffle to its Black Film Canon, and the film was added to the Criterion Collection this month. I spoke with Townsend about terrible auditions, making a movie without your neighbors finding out, and what Eddie Murphy thought about Townsends Eddie Murphy impression. This conversation has been edited and condensed.

Dan Kois: Hollywood Shuffle was born out of frustration, but it seems like actually making it was fun. A bunch of friends coming up with funny ideas, having a great time filming them on weekends. Is that how you remember it?

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Robert Townsend: It was a lot of fun, because we made a game out of it. I came out of the theater, acting exercises and improv, so when I started to do Hollywood Shuffle, I took all of that experience with me. I mean, you know, we got Keenen on set. Were laughing. Damon Wayans. You got John Witherspoon. You got Paul Mooney. You got Dom Irrera, Lisa Mende. Just funny people.

And you had a comedy background, too.

Starting out as a comedian, you go for the funny. When you think in terms of what would eventually become In Living Color and all of that, this is us figuring out: Can we do this? Can we play in this kind of sandbox and win? At Second City, Del Close and Jo Forsberg, my teachers thereit was all about imagination and creating. And so I think in Hollywood Shuffle, we take you on that imaginary journey, though we dont have a budget or anything.

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I have to imagine that all of those folks who were the Hollywood Shuffle players with you understood instantly what it was you were making fun of in this movie. Theyd all had experiences in Hollywood like youd had.

Oh man, so many. We would always laugh at the names. You always knew who your character was when they sent you the sides. The name was like, Eight Ball, Boot, Midnight, Licorice. We would be like, We know we Black, man, you aint got to   Who thinks of this shit?

There was one really bad audition that Keenen and I had both went on. It was like this director from England and he was doing this exploitation, pimp, hustler, whatever the hell it was kind of movie. And he was telling me how to be Black, but he was condescending and was, it was just mean and it was vicious. [British accent:] Youre a bad mofo, you get out of the Cadillac and you pimp-slap her. Pip pip, pip pip. Stick your butt out. Can you make your nostrils flare? Make them flare! But I wanted the job, so of course Im doing: [Flares nostrils desperately]

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And I was like, Keenen, man, this is bullshit. We got to make our own movies, man. Were going to die doing this bullshit.

A couple of years before you made this, you were in A Soldiers Story, which was nominated for Best Picture. How was that experience making that movie different from what you had dealt with before?

And then my agent was like, Robert, they do one Black movie a year. You just did it. Be happy.  Robert Townsend

A Soldiers Story changed my life. I just remember watching Norman Jewison direct, and he had done In the Heat of the Night and all these big movies. We were all young actors, but we knew something was different with this film because our opinions mattered. Norman would say, I dont really know the Black experience. Would you do this? How would you say this? And then when I finally saw the finished film, I was like, This is what I want to do. This is the movies. This is it. And then my agent was like, Robert, they do one Black movie a year. You just did it. Be happy. I was like, Really? Thats it? He was like, Thats it. Now go back to saying, Man, Boot, get in here! 

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Did you have studio funding for Hollywood Shuffle?

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I didnt even know to pitch it to a studio. I was like, I got some money saved, 60 grand in the bankIll figure out how to make a movie. Everybody was like, You dont have a chance in hell. I called Norman Jewison, I called Ron Schwary [A Soldiers Story producer], and Jerry Molen, whos Steven Spielbergs producer now. And I said, Im going to make a movie. I need the leftover film. Would you give it to me? And they gave me the short ends from Soldiers Story.

I knew I couldnt afford permits so we shot all our outdoor stuff early Sunday mornings. The world is asleep. People are going to church, or they party too hard. The police are not out. So I did the shot list and said, OK, meet at my house at 5 oclock. Dont park your cars in front of my house. Park three blocks away from my house so my neighbors dont know whats going on.

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Hollywood Shuffle pokes a lot of fun at Black actors being told over and over again that what the movie really needs is an Eddie Murphy type. Can you try to explain for readers now who dont understand the hold that Eddie Murphy had over white Hollywoods view of Black actors in the 1980s? How big was he at that time?

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Like the Rock combined with Kevin Hart combined with  I dont even know who. He was the Marvel Universe by himself, Ill put it like that. So now you go on auditions, and it was still Boot. But now Boots an Eddie Murphy type. Eddie was talking trash. He was smooth. He was cool. So they wanted that, rather than saying, We want you to bring your original self.

They didnt understand that what made him great was that there was no one like him.

Right.

Did Eddie ever tell you what he thought of your Eddie Murphy impression?

After Hollywood Shuffle came out, the Samuel Goldwyn Company put us on a tour of Europe. And so Keenen and I, we were in France, and Keenen checked his messages, and he played it to me, and it was Eddie Murphy. And Eddie Murphy goes, [Eddie Murphy voice:] Hey Rob, Keenen, everybody talking about this Hollywood Shuffle, man, I want to see it. Where can I see it, brother? We were like, Uh-oh.

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And so we have a screening for Eddie at a screening room in Burbank. Its a 40-seat theater. Eddie shows up with 15 people, his entourage, and theyre loving the movie, laughing, laughing, laughing. And then he gets to the part, What were looking for is an Eddie Murphy type. The room gets quiet and then Keenens head goes down.

Im like, Oh shit. Oh shit. Oh shit. And then I hear one of Eddies bodyguards, Eddie they said your name. Eddie, they just said your name. And then Eddie starts laughing, his big laugh, and he just, [Eddie Murphy voice:] Oh man, why yall do that to me? Rob, Keenen, oh, thats messed up.

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After the film was over, I go over to apologize, because I wrote the scene, and Keenen said we shouldnt put it in the movie. He says, Im going to do this standup concert film, and Im looking for a director. You want to direct it? Its going to be called Raw. And thats how I got the gig.

Whoa!

It was his love in that screening room. He was just like, Its yours. And like I said, he was a mega-wattage star. He could get any director in Hollywood, and he chose me. So it was just a beautiful day all the way around because of this little movie.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (L, Rear) and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (R, Rear) attend a joint press conference in Windsor, Britain, on Feb. 27, 2023. The United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) concluded on Monday a new post-Brexit trade arrangement for Northern Ireland. (Simon Walker/No 10 Downing Street/Handout via Xinhua)

LONDON, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) on Monday concluded a new post-Brexit trade arrangement for Northern Ireland after long negotiations, with both sides eyeing a new chapter in relations.

Dubbed the "Windsor Framework," the deal aims to ease the trading issues created by the Northern Ireland Protocol and was announced by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor near London.

"DECISIVE BREAKTHROUGH"

"I'm pleased to report that we have now made a decisive breakthrough," Sunak said at a joint press conference with von der Leyen. "Together, we have changed the original Protocol and are today announcing the new Windsor Framework."

He said the agreement delivers the smooth flow of trade within the UK, as goods destined for Northern Ireland will travel through a new Green Lane, with a separate Red Lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU.

In the Green Lane, burdensome customs bureaucracy will be scrapped, meaning food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry, Sunak told reporters.

"This means we have removed any sense of a border in the Irish Sea," he noted.

The two sides have amended the legal text of the Protocol to ensure the country can make critical value-added tax and excise changes for the whole of the UK, "for example on alcohol duty, meaning our reforms to cut the cost of a pint in the pub will now apply in Northern Ireland."

With a settlement on medicines, moreover, drugs approved for use by the UK's medicine regulator will be automatically available in every pharmacy and hospital in Northern Ireland.

A new so-called "Stormont Brake" was also introduced. It will allow the elected Northern Ireland Assembly to stop EU goods laws that would have "significant and lasting effects on everyday lives." When pulled, "the UK government will have a veto," the prime minister said.

"This gives Northern Ireland a powerful safeguard," he said.

Many had called for Stormont, or the Northern Ireland Assembly, to have a say over these laws, he noted. "But the Stormont Brake goes further and means that Stormont can in fact stop them from applying in Northern Ireland."

Following the announcement on Monday, Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Defense Micheal Martin said the UK-EU announcement is "very welcome."

The new agreement is "the result of genuine engagement, and of the EU and UK working together and listening to the concerns raised by elected representatives, citizens and business in Northern Ireland," Martin said in a statement.

Professor Iain Begg from the London School of Economics and Political Science told Xinhua that Sunak has succeeded where his predecessors have failed, and the reason is that he is now looking for a constructive relationship with the EU.

Sunak is "correct to see it not just as a turning point, but a breakthrough, because it opens the door to resolving some of the other outstanding issues in relation to UK-EU relations," Begg added.

BELFAST AGREEMENT

Sunak called the Windsor Framework a "turning point" for the people of Northern Ireland, saying it fixes the practical problems they face and preserves the balance of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement.

Noting that this year will mark the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement, von der Leyen said the new Windsor Framework is here to benefit people in Northern Ireland and support all communities celebrating peace on the island of Ireland.

"We were both genuinely committed to finding a practical solution for people and for all communities in Northern Ireland," the EU chief said. "This new Framework will allow us to begin a new chapter."

Signed in 1998 following three decades of conflict, the landmark Belfast Agreement established a power-sharing system of government, including an Executive and Assembly. It underpins Northern Ireland's peace, constitutional settlement and institutions.

A lengthy dispute over the Northern Ireland Protocol has recently posed a serious threat. Under the protocol, Northern Ireland was part of the British customs territory but subject to the EU's customs code, value-added tax rules and single market rules for goods.

However, a de facto Irish Sea border was thus created between the British mainland and Northern Ireland, meaning goods transported to and from Northern Ireland were subject to border controls.

Northern Ireland's pro-Brexit Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has demanded the removal or replacement of the protocol as a precondition for it to sit in the assembly and form a devolved government.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed the result on Monday. "In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern," he said in a statement.

The DUP will study and examine the details of any and all underpinning legal texts, he added. "Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required."

Professor John Tonge from the University of Liverpool told Xinhua that the new deal is a "major triumph" for Sunak. "The British government has got most of what it wanted from the European Union," Tonge said. "Even the DUP may be happy."

DUBLIN WELCOMES NEW DEAL

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar welcomed the move in a tweet, saying it is "the result of a long and difficult process to find joint solutions."

Mary Lou McDonald, leader of Sinn Fein, the largest opposition party in Ireland, said that her party "will meet tonight to assess the deal".

"Protection of the GFA (Good Friday Agreement), no hardening of the border and access to the EU market are key elements of any deal," she tweeted, adding that "there is a real urgency to get the Northern Executive up and running."

Ibec, Ireland's largest business representative group, said the move would be welcomed by "businesses across the all-island economy."

"As economic challenges continue to impact business sentiment, today's announcement will bring much needed certainty for businesses across the all-island economy," it said in a statement.

Irish Farmers Association President Tim Cullinan said that "while we await the full details of any new arrangements, it is much better to have a negotiated outcome rather than having to resort to unilateral measures."

"Approximately one third of our food exports still go to the UK, so having rules-based trade that preserves the integrity of the Single Market is extremely important for Irish farming," he said in a statement. 
In late 2004, Finnish filmmaker Juha Lilja went to a Helsinki film festival and watched Andy Warhols Sleep for the first time. Described as a cinematic joke, the anti-movie clocks in at a whopping five hours and 20 minutes, and consists entirely of a hot, naked guypoet John Giorno, who dated the artist at the timejust sleeping. Lilja found the screening interesting, but he didnt think much more of it. I was kind of watching it, falling asleep myself, and then watching it a little more, he told me, a smile visible beneath his thick beard.

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Nine years later, Lilja created his own homage to Sleep in commemoration of the originals 50th anniversary. Warhols Sleep is 30 minutes of original footage, slowed and looped to stretch the runtime; Lilja wanted a full eight hours, achieved by filming one hour of sleep (his cameras limit) for eight nights. The grainy black-and-white footage is mainly of his bare butt, but he spliced in landscape shots and clips of motorcycle rides, too.

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When no museums wanted to screen the film, Lilja uploaded it to YouTubefirst on his main channel, and then, in 2020, on his then-dormant backup channel. To his shock, views on his backup account quickly skyrocketed: At the time of writing, it has 161,000 views. I got hundreds of comments, like I love you, and You look so sexy,  he said. Most of these came from gay bears, who identify with and are turned on by chubby, hairy guys just like Lilja.

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Thats how he learned of a growing YouTube trend: the horny guy sleep stream.

Increasingly, half-naked guys from around the globe have been streaming their slumber for die-hard fans, who sift through footage to post timestamps of nighttime erections. Some stream in boxer shorts with their penises visibly at attention; others use YouTubes membership feature, allowing fans to pay for streaming videos, in skimpier undies and ass-baring thongs. A small handful of these sleep streamers have OnlyFans accounts, but the majority dont, instead adding payment links in their captions so fans can tip them. Weirdly, its almost exclusively men making this content, hundreds of whom have uploaded their sleep streams to YouTube this month alone. Mostly, they can be found by searching for male sleep stream, or just the plain old sleep stream.

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Its become a natural evolution of the livestreaming phenomenon to share the most mundane details of your day. In 2019, 22-year-old Michael Gerry decided to stream an entire year of his life, including the XXX stuff: showering, having sex, masturbating. But by March 2020, sleep-streaming in particular was on the rise. Initially, it was framed as a kind of get-rich-quick scheme, and articles highlighted the novelty of creators literally getting paid in their sleep by fans eager to interact with them. Then, the pandemic hit, forcing the world to stay indoors, where they clamored for companionship. Streamers of all genders were there to fill this void, sharing their lives to create a sense of intimacy with viewers across the globe.

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As the market grew, creators started experimenting with new ways to spice up the genre. StanleyMOV initially made joke content about his thick Danish accent on TikTok back in 2020, but soon started livestreamingmainly gaming and meme contentfor his fans. He later moved to Twitch, making increasingly chaotic sleep streams. I started with a loudspeaker, but later I integrated LED lights alongside the loud noises, he told me. Fans could spend pointswhich they could either buy or earn through watching Twitch streamsto set off Stanleys speakers and lights, waking him up in hilarious fashion. Some sleep streamers still use wild props to draw in fans: Stanley has seen everything from leaf blowers and confetti cannons to this blow-up latex thing that wiggles around when people tip.

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Stanley wasnt aware of horny sleep streamers, but hes not surprised theyre on the rise. If we take the lewd and sexual side, thats always been a thingjust look at the Twitch controversy around hot tub streams, for example, he said. (In May 2021, a wave of hot tub and bikini streamers were banned by Twitch, leading the platform to publish an official clarification and introduce a new category: Pools, Hot Tubs, and Beaches.)

Liljas take is similarly straightforward: Its the internet, he said. You know Rule 34? If it exists, theres online porn of it somewhere.

The thing is, these streams arent strictly pornographic. Some people do watch them to catch a glimpse of an erection, and others are turned on by sleeping itself (this is called somno kink), but there are also plenty of viewers who watch them just to feel a sense of companionship, much like they would feel while watching a makeup tutorial or a mukbang video (safe for work!). In fact, many viewers start with wholesome intentions before accidentally veering into sexier territory. I actually went on [YouTube] to listen to a monotonous space documentary to help me sleep, wrote one viewer forum that has too many leaks on it to link. Now Im horny as fuck, because [this streamer] looks like Michael Gerry. Mainly, viewers just post erection screenshots and dick-slips but stop short of eroticizing sleepits more just that sleep streams seem to be the most failsafe way to glimpse a guys junk on YouTube.

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Really, streamers never know how people are going to engage with their work. Lilja just wanted to share his Warhol tribute project, but ended up getting legions of bears hot under the collar. Hes straight, but doesnt mind the attention. In fact, when he saw the views racking up, he decided to give the gays what they wanted. I made four or five different streams in one week, he said. I streamed myself sleeping on a sofa, on a chair, on a carpet, in the snowwell, I didnt really sleep in that one. It was too cold. He even decided to take more suggestive shots of his crotch for his fans. Its just fun to me that people are finding it and enjoying it, he said.

YouTube, its worth noting, is not a fan. It is currently playing whack-a-mole with horny sleep streams; plenty of them get deleted, and Lilja is worried that if he takes up the sites offer to monetize his channel, moderators will scrutinize his videos and flag them for explicit content. Hes already had a few videos flagged, so he quickly made them age-restricted, but hes not about to stop streaming for fear of a few YouTube strikes. If YouTubes gonna come for him, finetheyll have to wake him up first.
Throughout Donald Trumps presidency, his longest-serving senior aide, Stephen Miller, fought intensely to bring Americas immigration system to a halt. Miller pushed for and crafted policies that separated migrant families (many of which are yet to be reunited), reduced refugee admissions to levels not seen in many years, and forced people to seek asylum in other countries instead of in the United States. With Trumps departure, and Bidens incoming administrations rhetoric on migration, advocates were hopeful that the Miller era had ended. Last week, though, the Biden administration proposed new rules for asylum-seekers that would have fulfilled some of Millers wildest dreams.

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The proposed asylum rule is quite complicated. In short, the rule requires adults who want to claim asylum to use a glitchy CBP One app to secure an appointment and to request (and be denied) asylum in an intermediate country before they arrive at a port of entry in the United States. These requirements place asylum-seekers in the unenviable position of either waiting for their appointments in the country they are fleeing, or, most likely, waiting in Mexico, a country that has been unable to protect migrants who have been stuck there waiting to cross to the United States while the Trump-era Title 42 policy has remained in place.

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Its only fair to note that the proposed rule allows exceptions for certain people who enter between ports of entry or who dont use the CBP One app to claim asylum. However, in practice, it is unlikely that most asylum-seekers would qualify for these.

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The Biden administration claims two things. First, that the proposed rule should be read in the context that DHS has established a program to accept 30,000 Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan migrants a month as parolees, as long as they have a U.S.-based sponsor. Moreover, that the new rule is meant to be temporary (24 months) to alleviate the increased demand for asylum they anticipate as a result of Title 42a measure which has kept the border closed to most asylum-seekers since 2021ending in May.

While the recent parole program is good, it is also insufficient. First, not all asylum-seekers are from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, or Venezuela. In fact, most are not. Second, not even all citizens of those countries are eligible for the sponsorship program because they dont all have sponsors, or the sponsors they do have might not qualify because they lack the financial resources to support them. So, it is not the case that the parole program would serve as an adequate replacement for asylum-seekers, even for citizens of those countries. Moreover, it is unlikely that DHS has the capacity to issue 30,000 paroles a month. It took great effort for the agency to issue 85,000 such paroles over the last year to Ukrainian refugees who werent facing the same backlash as migrants in the new parole program. Finally, the program is being challenged in court by a coalition of GOP-led states. It is an open question whether it will withstand the challenge.

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More important than those practical objections is that the notion that a targeted and specific parole program can replace asylum is inimical to the very idea of asylum. As many Democrats and human rights organizations have articulated since the proposed asylum rule was published in the Federal Register, under U.S. and international law people have a fundamental right to seek asylum. This means that the government must do everything in its power to ensure people can seek asylums protection. No ifs, ands, or buts.

However, through this proposed rule, the Biden administration has shown that they do not believe asylum access to be a human right. Rather, the government is putting asylum access on a balance with state capacity and, arguably, politics. By extension, this analysis of asylum allows for the return of Stephen Millers policies. Most notably, this new proposal is virtually indistinguishable from a transit ban Miller proposed during his tenure at the White House, which at one point was considered a red line for even the hardline Trump administration.

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This leads to the administrations second claim about the temporary nature of the rule. Even if this rule were to be enacted for only two years, it would still mean avoidable death and suffering during that time. Moreover, 24 months is long enough to establish a new normal that will then become permanent. Title 42 is instructive. Before that rule was implemented, the idea of closing the border to asylum-seekers was unthinkable. Now, lifting the rule is treated with derision and fear by Republicans and Democrats alike. For the purposes of that debate, it has become irrelevant that lifting Title 42 is simply returning the U.S. to border policy as it existed under Trump. In fact, the opposition to the lifting of Title 42 helps explain at least some of the motivation behind the proposed new asylum rule.

It is hard to envision the rule sunsetting. Even assuming there is a future Democratic administration, extinguishing the rule will be painted and understood as unreasonable policy. As Milton Friedman admonished: Nothing is as permanent as a temporary government program.

The new asylum proposal is not to be framed as realpolitik, as some have done. It is a dangerous policy that, if implemented, will create an even more dangerous precedent. If a Democratic administration can comfortably and single-handedly end asylum at the border, what will Miller or his acolytes do if they regain control of government?
The defense called its final witness Monday in the murder trial of Alex Murdaugh, the scion of a powerful family in rural South Carolina who exists at the hub of a sprawling web of fraud and death.

Murdaugh, 63, is accused of killing his son Paul and his wife Maggie in June 2021 at a 1,700-acre family property in Colleton County. Prosecutors assert that he murdered the two in an effort to relieve the scrutiny hed been under since a fatal boat crash in 2019 that Paul Murdaugh was involved in. (Paul was accused of crashing a family boat while heavily intoxicated, resulting in the death of one of his friends; Alex was accused of trying to use his familys influence to scapegoat another individual for the crash, and has since also admitted to having stolen millions of dollars from clients at his law firm over the course of several years.)

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Murdaughs trial, which is in its sixth week, reached a dramatic culmination last Friday as he testified in his own defense. Paul and Maggie Murdaugh were shot to death at a dog kennel on the Colleton property, and Alex Murdaugh claimed to police as early as the night of their deaths that he had not seen Paul and Maggie since well before the time period in which they are believed to have died. His defense team initially contended that Murdaugh had found them at the kennel only after leaving the property to visit his ailing mother and father, returning to the propertys main house, and then taking a nap.

Investigators, however, discovered what they believed to be Alex Murdaughs voice on a video recorded at the kennel on Paul Murdaughs phone just before activity on the phone stopped. Prosecutors have attempted to establish that the voice in question was in fact Alex Murdaughs; on the stand, Alex admitted that it was, but asserted that after he saw Paul and Maggie alive and well, he returned to the main house before they were shot to death. Even though the main house was only about a quarter-mile away, Murdaugh said he did not hear gunshots from the kennel. Further, he claims to believe his wife and son were attacked by someone motivated by news coverage of Pauls boat crash.

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From South Carolinas Post and Courier:

Between breaks to compose himself, Murdaugh said Paul had been misrepresented and vilified by news outlets and on social media. His son had received vile messages and threats. I believed then and I believe today that the wrong person saw and read that because I can tell you for a fact that the person or people who did what I saw on June the 7th, they hated Paul Murdaugh, and they had anger in their heart, Murdaugh said. And that is the only  only  reason that somebody could be mad at (Paul) like that and hate him like that.

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As the prosecutor in the case pointed out, this would have required the assailant to have located Paul on a remote section of a private, rural property. Alex Murdaugh had also testified that the dogs at the kennel were not behaving in an agitated manner, as they might be expected to have done if a stranger were nearby, before the murders took place. (Reporter and podcast host Mandy Matney, who has covered the case since the murders took place, says she has never seen evidence of threats being made against Pauls life.)

In the defenses defense, there isnt strong physical evidenceblood spatter on clothing, fingerprints or footprints, or a definitive murder weapontying Alex Murdaugh to the killings. The trial continues Tuesday, with prosecutors saying that they plan to call several witnesses to respond to arguments raised by the defense.
Elon Musks bloodletting at Twitter might never end. Shortly after he took over the social media company at the end of October, Musk booted about half of Twitters 7,500-person org chart. He then issued an ultimatum to the remaining employees, telling them to resign with severance or embrace an extremely hardcore work culture and stick around. (How many departees actually got their severance is an open question.) Twitter was down to about 2,000 employees in recent days, the New York Times reported, before Musk fired at least another 200 on Saturday night. Indeed, on Saturday night.

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One of those laid off was Esther Crawford. This was her in November, sleeping on the floor at Twitter headquarters in San Francisco and then defending it as a necessary sacrifice of leadership in a high-pressure job:

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When your team is pushing round the clock to make deadlines sometimes you #SleepWhereYouWork https://t.co/UBGKYPilbD  Esther Crawford  (@esthercrawford) November 2, 2022

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Crawford was the head of Twitter Blue, the subscription service that Musk has hyped as a key business plank but that has not attracted subscribers in large numbers. She had been as public as anyone in her embrace of Musks grindset cultural demands. When people pointed out that maybe it wasnt a good idea for a leader to promote sleeping at the office, she stood up for it in an extensive thread. Musk, who brags about not sleeping much, probably loved it. Not four months later, Crawfords payoff for going extremely hardcore was that Musk fired her.

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They may well all have been Esther Crawfords. Those latest 200 Twitter layoffs had all remained at the company, or taken jobs there, after Musk made his demands of Twitter and its workplace culture quite clear. All of these people were prepared to stick around long after Musk had slashed everything but his expectations for their performance. These were the workers who were all in. There are many fair reasons for a person to stay in a demanding job with an unsatisfiable bossmoney, health insurance, a fear of unemployment, and immigration status all come to mindbut Musk didnt even give them the choice for long.

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It will probably happen again, to more employees, at all of Musks companies. (Twitter is not the first Musk firm, or even the most troubling, to have staff sleeping on the floor.) The CEO glorifies the grind in which someone gives nearly their entire self over to their work. But that commitment isnt a two-way street, because Musk is much less interesting a boss than hed have you believe. He fired employees whod gone above and beyond to show their devotion to a business in the way any other exec might. Musk is unique only in how overt he is about making exceptional demands and then withholding exceptional commitment. There is no hustling into Musks orbit, no matter how he brands himself.

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While Musk was still in the process of buying Twitter, during the part of 2022 in which he was fighting in court to not buy Twitter, discovery documents revealed how he talks to the people in his inner circle. Sycophants surrounded him. Every word he uttered was brilliance distilled. The documents were embarrassing, or shouldve been, for several of the people involved. Tech investor Jason Calacanis, struggling to spell out an explosive device, told Musk he would jump on a grande for you after Musk told him he was using our friendship not in a good way. Calacanis has been part of a group of (exclusively) men forming a braintrust for Musk at Twitter, Recode reported, and has (I think) avoided further humbling other than someone doing a pretty good account impersonation of him after Musk opened verified checkmarks to whoever would buy one. One of Musks other tech-investor confidants, David Sacks, recently felt the need to tell a reporter about how a story that Musk shooed him away from a meeting and he quickly complied was a total lie. Musks personal lawyer, Alex Spiro, stopped working at Twitter after Musk had become unhappy, the Times reported, with his decision-making in the span of his less than two months at the company. Even being Musks personal lawyer with some high-profile victories under his belt was not enough to spare Spiro from Musk getting down on him, and six people knowing enough about it to tell it to a New York Times reporter.

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These men, whove all been quite successful in their own careers and provided lucrative, personalized service for Musk, are not above him putting them in their place. Nor is anyone else at Twitter, Tesla, SpaceX, or anywhere Musk operates. Their leader is one of the richest people in the history of humanity, and he makes decisions based on what his mind is telling him to do at that exact second, or what a Twitter poll says, or based on what will get the approval of whichever far-right Twitter account hes having an exchange with at that moment. Of course Musk would lay off the person who took the most public bashing for standing by a ridiculous workplace culture that keeps people away from the rest of their lives for a product that may or may not even improve. There is no banking gold with him, because he has all the gold in the world. There is only serving and then hoping.

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You might read this and see an analogy to the former president that Musk recently unbanned from Twitter. And certainly, one of the simplest ways to get close to Donald Trump is to say flattering things about him at the right time of day, during the right Fox News program, and let him absorb them. Time and again, Trumps guys have eventually found themselves outside his favor, no matter how far theyd gotten on their voyages to the inner sanctum. (Ron DeSantis really, really should just embrace that he is now Meatball Ron.) Fawning adoration was the coin of the realm, but it could only rent you real estate near the big guy. You couldnt buy it. Some operators got a lot out of flattering TrumpDeSantis did, certainlybut nobody found reciprocity, and nearly everyone eventually got wastebasketed. They had no way of seeing that coming because they werent that deep. Jeff Sessions and Steve Bannon and Paul Manafort and Reince Priebus and Stephanie Grisham and those two Rudy Giulani operatives who got arrested at an airport with one-way international tickets? Nobody there was among our best and brightest.

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Musks gift is that he extracts value from people who are accomplished in hard things and can build tools that most of us could not even if we wanted. Those inner-circle guys Musk has taken down a few pegs have all built prolific careers in business. Crawford, before getting famous for sleeping in the office, had a distinguished run at the old version of Twitter. Every engineer and product designer Musk has chased away from Twitter was doing work that takes years of training to do well. These people were making good salaries doing hard jobs at a reputable company in the tech cradle of the world. They are not dumb. They helped Musk keep Twitter from croaking in the course of his stripping down the company for parts, and some of them are still on hand to do that. Others, in return for their service, are out of their jobs.

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Musk stands out because he is so famous and has made such a show of turning his employees into something between a cult and an army, whose objective is bailing him out of the financial mistake he made when he overpaid for Twitter and loaded it up with debt. But at his root, he is a capitalist doing a capitalists work, the same as your boss or mine. Whether he ever hits bone or not, he has cut Twitter down to a husk of the organization it was before. The website still works, nominally, which is good for him, though acting like the user experience hasnt degraded (as some are doing!) is unserious. Musk dug himself a hole when he bought Twitter, and he was fortunate to find thousands of employees who were fine helping him dig out. It will take Musk a longer time to make Twitter a roaring business than it will take for him to sour on more of the people helping him. At some point, there wont be much more for Musk to eject from Twitter besides himself. Well see what a $44 billion investment is worth then.
Slovaks are doing a lot of good things, but they dont like showcasing, says Marie Dizon, HR business partner at ING Hubs Slovakia.

Foreign employees left Slovakia during the pandemic either because they wanted to be closer to their relatives, or the lockdowns prevented them from living the life in Slovakia they originally wanted to. (Source: Courtesy of IBM )

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The Covid-19 pandemic not only accelerated the return of Slovaks working aboard back to their home country, but also squeezed the number of foreigners working in shared and business service centres in Slovakia. Nevertheless, companies operating these centres in Slovakia keep searching for foreign talents, even though it is more demanding than hiring Slovaks.

We usually go for a specific qualification from abroad to build up new teams, Christian Schulz, President of Henkel Slovensko and Head of GBS+ Bratislava and GBS+ Cairo, told The Slovak Spectator. If we dont get this initial core competence, we may fail to build up a new team, or in the corporate world, the new team might be allocated to another location. The share of foreign employees in member companies of the Business Service Center Forum (BSCF), which employ about 37,500 people, decreased in 2022 for the first time since the BSCF started conducting its survey.

It was usually around 10.5-11.5 percent. Last year it went down to 9 percent, said Peter Rusinak, AmCham Senior Policy Manager & AmCham BSCF Coordinator. The workforce at BSCF member companies increased by 4.31 percent.

Related article

Related article Rising living costs abroad and family behind Slovaks' return to 'old-fashioned' home Read more

The BSCs see the effects of the pandemic behind this decrease. Foreign employees left either because they wanted to be closer to their relatives, or the lockdowns prevented them from living the life in Slovakia they originally wanted to.
A virtual exhibition will be created on the site, in the castle's former stables.

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At the castle in Holic, in the Zahorie region of western Slovakia, the stables are currently being renovated  and late 18th-century frescoes, some of them recently rediscovered, are being restored.

"The restorers discovered frescoes on the ceiling of the building. They are currently uncovering paintings of fish on the ceiling, but also interesting frescoes on the walls in other rooms," informed Katarina Tureckova from the city office.

A virtual exhibition will be created on the premises of Koniaren, the building where horses were once stabled. All reconstruction and restoration work is being financed by a project entitled 'In the Footsteps of the Great Moravian Slavs'. The organisers want to finish the work before the next summer tourist season begins.

The work has revealed frescoes that date from the second half of the 18th century.

"When the research is completed, we will also learn the exact dating and decoration scenario of this building," she added.

In Koniaren, the floors will be replaced, and heating and lighting installed. They would like to open the building as early as May, but due to the extensive restoration work required, they do not know if they will be able to complete the project by then.

An exceptional exhibition is planned for the Koniaren premises.

"There will be a virtual exhibition entitled 'In the Footsteps of the Great Moravian Slavs'. It has this name because the partner in these projects is the Archaeological Institute of the Brno Academy of Sciences, based in Mikulcice [Czech Republic]. It is very close to Great Moravia and deals with it. The exhibition will be in two large buildings in Koniaren; the other three rooms are dedicated to a ceramic workshop," Tureckova explained.

The entire project is being financed from European funds within the cross-border cooperation programme Interreg.

During the off-season, the castle is closed, but during the summer season, a Tourist Information Centre is located at the castle, and visitors can take guided tours of the castle.

My Zahorie

Spectacular Slovakia travel guides
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Juraj Jakubisko, one of the greatest Slovak filmmakers affiliated with the Czechoslovak New Wave, a golden age of Czechoslovak cinema in the sixties, died on Friday at his home in Prague, Czech Republic. He was 84.

His daughter and actress, Jannette Jakubiskova, announced the directors death on social media. Jakubisko had a heart transplant in 2012, which led to the suppression of his immune system and becoming ill more often.

Jakubiskos works are characterised by poetry, symbolism, imagination and folklore, belonging among the treasures of Slovak cinema.

Death in many forms, escaping or reconciling with it, became one of the major motifs in Jakubiskos films, including in Perinbaba (The Feather Fairy), a film released in 1985. Portrayed by Italian actress Giulietta Masina, Perinbaba controls the weather on Earth by using magic from her cave. She also looks after a boy who she saved from being taken by Death. For love, he later decides to return to the world of mortals where he faces Deaths intrigues again.

It [death] fascinates me a lot, he said in an interview with Czech Public Radio a few years ago. Ive always perceived it as something mysterious, which I must keep returning to. Its given me hope.

The director observed that art should free people from the fear of death.
RTVS presenter receives threats, NBU warns of increased risk of cyber attacks. Learn more in today's digest.

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Good evening. Here is the Monday, February 27 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Threats to journalist so hateful RTVS does not publish them

(Source: TASR)

Not a week passed from the fifth anniversary of the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak, public service broadcaster RTVS presenter Marta Janckarova received death, torture, rape and other threats via e-mail and phone.

The threats were so hateful that the broadcaster decided not to publish their content. They came after the last two editions of the Sobotne Dialogy political debates, one with President Zuzana Caputova and one where RTVS refused to allow an uninvited Smer MP on air, respectively.

The National Criminal Agency has started an investigation.

More on attacks on journalists in Slovakia:

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If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our NEW online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you.

Feature story for today

Jakubisko in an interview with the Sme daily in 2008. (Source: SME)

Juraj Jakubisko, one of the greatest Slovak filmmakers, whose works are characterised by poetics, symbolism, imagination and folklore and belongs among the treasures of Slovak cinema, died on Friday at his home in Prague, Czech Republic. He was 84.

Death in many forms, escaping it or reconciling with it, became one of the major motifs in Jakubiskos films, including his famous Perinbaba (The Feather Fairy) which airs on TV every Christmas.

The director observed that art should free people from the fear of death.

Juraj Jakubisko, leading filmmaker dubbed the Slovak Fellini, dies at 84 Read more

Music tip of the day

The international Konvergencie music festival starts this Thursday. This year's edition is dedicated to Leos Janacek, a Czech composer, musical theorist and folklorist. His piece Pochod Modracku (transl. March of the Bluebirds) will be one of many that will be performed on the festival.

video //www.youtube.com/embed/6Z7fPMI5A_o

In other news

The National Security Authority (NBU) warns of an increased risk of cyber attacks from pro-Russian oriented hacker groups . Possible targets mainly include the infrastructure of basic service operators and elements of critical infrastructure. The warning is valid from February 28 to March 2.

. Possible targets mainly include the infrastructure of basic service operators and elements of critical infrastructure. The warning is valid from February 28 to March 2. Comenius University in Bratislava is the first university in Slovakia to receive an ERC grant from the European Research Council worth 1.55 million euros. The grant was awarded to young researcher Michal Majek from the Faculty of Natural Sciences for research in the field of chemical catalysis.

from the European Research Council worth 1.55 million euros. The grant was awarded to young researcher Michal Majek from the Faculty of Natural Sciences for research in the field of chemical catalysis. Deliveries of Russian oil through the Druzba pipeline to Slovakia continue without any problem . In addition to Slovakia, the pipeline transports Russian oil to Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. The EU sanctions against Russia do not apply in this case.

. In addition to Slovakia, the pipeline transports Russian oil to Germany, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. The EU sanctions against Russia do not apply in this case. A Special Prosecutor's Office prosecutor filed an indictment against SNS ex-head and former Zilina mayor Jan Slota for corruption. According to the indictment, Slota is accused of participating in the crime of accepting a bribe.

Participants of the fourth edition of the winter hike through the Janosikove Diery gorge, on February 25, near the village of Terchova, Zilina district. (Source: TASR)

Weather for Tuesday

Partially cloudy all over Slovakia, with daily temperatures between 0 to 8 degrees Celsius.

If you have suggestions on how this news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.
Situation at the already busy intersection will become more complicated.

The D1 highway is prone to long traffic queues even under normal circumstances. (Source: TASR)

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Repairs at the intersection of the D1 highway and the R1 expressway near Trnava should start soon. The National Highway Company (NDS) announced a tender focused on the two bridges over the D1 highway.

This means that the situation on the already busy intersection will become more complicated for drivers.

The intersection has traffic branching in all directions; to Povazie and Zilina, Bratislava, Trnava and Nitra. Two years ago, a total of 45,000 vehicles a day on average were measured as using it.

Slow moving or even stationary traffic queues usually form on the extremely busy intersection even under normal circumstances. This happens, for example, on Sunday evenings when drivers from central and eastern Slovakia return to Bratislava.

At the same time, it is also an accident-prone section.

NDS wants to repair the double bridge over the D1, as well as the road in front of and behind the bridge.

The company estimates that the repairs could cost 2.8 million without VAT. Applicants will send offers by March 21. The construction work should be carried out non-stop, including weekends and public holidays. Despite this, the repairs will probably last between 140 to 168 days, or almost half a year.

The work will take place in two stages and simultaneously in both lanes, as the bridge cannot be closed, because the traffic situation would collapse without the intersection.
But how many chances does one country get?

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Welcome to your weekly commentary and overview of news from Slovakia. Five years after the murder of journalist Jan Kuciak, the masterminds behind the crime have not been convicted and the country is sinking into ever-deeper frustration. One year of war has tested Slovaks too, and the results are sobering. The killer of Henry Acorda is out of prison after serving only one-third of his sentence.

It has been five years since journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova were murdered in their home in Velka Maca, a village in western Slovakia. After the initial shock, most of Slovakias society understood that the assassination of a journalist  the couple were killed by gunshots at close range  was cause for grief but also a disturbing sign of something evil under the surface, as then president Andrej Kiska put it a few weeks later, amid the political turmoil that gave rise to a new Slovakia  albeit one that is still a work in progress.

Many would brand the previous sentence an optimistic, perhaps even naive, assessment. In the wake of the murder, there was a lot of grief  over the death of two young people but also over the condition of a state that had failed to prevent it from happening. That grief was quickly transformed into constructive anger and then hope, embodied in the election of the current president, Zuzana Caputova, in 2019.

On the fifth anniversary of the murders, viewers in Slovakia had the chance to see a documentary that tells the story of the murder from the outside, by an American filmmaker. As such, it provides a good way for any outsider to understand the basics of what had been going on in the country before the crime occurred, and what has transpired since.
ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) said its urgent support helped to avert COVID-19 vaccines expiry in Africa.

The Africa CDC, in a statement issued Thursday, said following the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the African continent instantly embarked on a large-scale vaccination drive to ensure that the population is protected against this harmful virus.

"The COVID-19 vaccines rollout remains the biggest, most rapid and most complex continental drive in history," the Africa Union (AU)'s specialized health care agency said.

It said the Africa CDC's commitment to safeguarding the continent's health was greatly demonstrated in the vaccine rollout processes as it provided leadership in ensuring fair, equitable and timely allocation of COVID-19 vaccines in Africa.

The Africa CDC said one major intervention was the urgent need to accelerate the vaccination programs in several AU member states, whose doses of vaccines were due to expire within a month.

It said the urgent support interventions were extended to support member states that reported adverse events following immunization and very low COVID-19 vaccination coverage.

The first African countries to benefit from the support included Cameroon, Namibia, South Sudan, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Lesotho, Morocco, Tanzania and Zambia, the Africa CDC said.

It said the urgent support to prevent and reduce COVID-19 vaccines expiry and demand creation led to the setup of new COVID-19 vaccination centers (CVCs) and the strengthening of existing CVCs for increased access to vaccination sites by the population.

The Africa CDC said logistics of supplying vaccinations from the central cold rooms to the centers, including the ancillaries needed to support their functioning, was also established.

It said targeted risk communication and community engagement in generating demand among the populace, including countering negative perceptions of the vaccine, greatly contributed to the accomplishment of the program.

It said most activities hit the target or above including vaccine delivery, vaccine ancillary supplies, setting up of new CVCs and deployment of trained vaccinators. In some countries, the support translated to the strengthening and creation of new vaccination sites bringing services closer to the communities. 
As editors in chief, we condemn repeated attacks on journalists.

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We reject the attacks on political journalist Marta Janckarova and the public broadcaster RTVS.

Some politicians make targets of journalists. With their statements, in which they call journalists traitors and enemies of the nation, they incite hatred towards them. Even the fifth anniversary of the murder of investigative journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee Martina Kusnirova is not enough of a memento for them.

After RTVS refused to allow the uninvited Smer-SD politician Lubos Blaha to participate in its political interview and discussion programme, the radio presenter Marta Janckarova received threatening phone calls and emails. Incited by Smer-SD leader Robert Fico and Blaha, their supporters are threatening her with murder for the correct and legitimate decision of the public broadcaster.

Journalists in several media have experienced similar attacks, when an army of trolls and supporters take politicians' threats and lies as a command. Today, it is an order for verbal attack. Tomorrow, it might be physical liquidation.

We reject attacks on journalists. We stand by Ms. Janckarova and RTVS. They did nothing wrong.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230226/cia-director-says-military-conflict-over-taiwan-not-inevitable-1107827777.html

CIA Director Says Military Conflict Over Taiwan Not Inevitable

CIA Director Says Military Conflict Over Taiwan Not Inevitable

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - CIA Director William Burns said Sunday that a military conflict over Taiwan was not inevitable, although he claimed that Chinese President... 26.02.2023, Sputnik International

2023-02-26T21:27+0000

2023-02-26T21:27+0000

2023-02-26T21:27+0000

world

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cia

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china

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"I think we need to take very seriously Xi's ambitions with regard to ultimately controlling Taiwan. That doesn't, however, in our view, mean that a military conflict is inevitable," he told CBSs "Face the Nation" show. Burns claimed that President Xi had instructed the armed forces to be ready to "invade" what China sees as its integral territory by 2027 but that did not necessarily mean that he had made the final decision. Tensions between China and Taiwan spiraled last year following a flurry of trips to the island by US and European officials. China has criticized the visits as a show of support for Taiwanese separatism and has been conducting daily flybys over the waters off the island.Officially, the United States supports the "One-China" policy and acknowledges Taiwan as part of China. However, the United States insists that the issue be resolved peacefully. China questioned the United States' commitment to the One-China policy after then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi visited Taipei in 2022. Tensions between the two countries grew further after a Chinese balloon was spotted over the United States and was shot down.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/african-nations-reportedly-boost-russian-oil-imports-amid-eu-sanctions-1107841257.html

African Nations Reportedly Boost Russian Oil Imports Amid EU Sanctions

African Nations Reportedly Boost Russian Oil Imports Amid EU Sanctions

In recent months, North African countries have drastically increased imports of diesel and other refined petroleum products from Russia, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has stated.

2023-02-27T13:41+0000

2023-02-27T13:41+0000

2023-02-27T13:41+0000

africa

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russia

sanctions

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In recent months, North African countries have ratcheted up imports of diesel and other refined petroleum products from Russia, as the latter is now cut off from the European market, a leading US-based newspaper has reported. The European Union bloc has imposed a ban on the purchase and import of seaborne Russian crude oil starting from December. Moreover, EU member states, which accounted for about 60% of Russian exports of refined petroleum products before the start of the hostilities in Ukraine, have recently reduced these flows. This month, a EU ban on imports of refined petroleum products from Russia, including diesel and jet fuel, came into effect.African Countries Step Up to the PlateAccording to the newspaper, the barrage of sanctions has forced Moscow to pursue new partnerships and redirect exports away from Europe to alternative markets. It was noted that against this backdrop, North African countries "picked up the slack," increasing imports from Russia. The report drew several examples that advocate this notion, citing data from Kpler, a data and analytics company. First, Tunisia, which had imported almost no Russian petroleum products in 2021, has recently started to receive supplies of diesel, gasoil, gasoline and naphtha from Russia. In January, the country acquired 2.8 million barrels of Russian oil products. This month, it was emphasized that Tunisia was going to import another 3.1 million barrels from Russia. Along with Tunisia, another North African country, mentioned by the newspaper, significantly enhanced cooperation with Moscow in this field. In 2021, Moroccan imports of Russian diesel stood at around 600,000 barrels. However, this figure swelled to 2 million barrels last month. In February, Morocco is expected to import 1.2 million barrels. It was also noted with no specific details that Algeria and Egypt boosted their imports of Russian oil products as well.Frustrating Western Efforts to Shun Russian OilThe newspaper noted that the increase in Tunisia's and Morocco's imports from Russia coincided with that of their own exports of refined products to the global market. Therefore, it was assumed, Russian hydrocarbons could be mixed with other petroleum products and re-exported to other countries, including European ones. The US-based paper stated that this process disguises the ultimate origin of the products and, therefore, undermines Western efforts aimed at cutting off Russian fossil fuels from their economies, and frustrates efforts to end their energy dependence on Russia and limit Moscow's sources of funds. The newspaper concluded, citing analysts, that if this trend continues, depriving Moscow of revenue would be difficult.According to the International Energy Agency, Russian oil exports increased to 8.2 mb/d last month ahead of the EU embargo and the G7 price cap on refined products taking effect. The refined-product exports "held steady." Meanwhile, Moscows export revenues were estimated at $13 billiion.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230214/russias-oil-drilling-in-2022-posted-multi-year-highs-despite-sanctions-data-shows-1107420442.html

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russia, africa, north africa, european union, the west, energy crisis, sanctions, wall street journal (wsj), embargo, refined oil products, diesel
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/beijing-dismisses-as-disinformation-us-claims-its-considering-sending-russia-weapons-1107849837.html

Beijing Dismisses as 'Disinformation' US Claims It's Considering Sending Russia Weapons

Beijing Dismisses as 'Disinformation' US Claims It's Considering Sending Russia Weapons

Ever since Russia launched its special operation in Ukraine in February 2022, the US has claimed China was preparing to send them weapons and threatened Beijing with the same kind of economic sanctions as the US has put against Russia.

2023-02-27T16:31+0000

2023-02-27T16:31+0000

2023-02-27T16:31+0000

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The Chinese government on Monday reasserted its right to have normal relations with any countries it wishes, even if the US doesnt like them. Beijing has maintained relations with both Ukraine and Russia in the year since the conflict began, and encouraged a peaceful resolution.The Biden administration has renewed its accusations that China is preparing to ship weapons to Russia to be used in Ukraine, as well as its threats to punish China if it does so. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told US media on Sunday that if it [China] goes down that road it will come at real costs to China."When asked about Sullivans comments, Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told reporters on Monday that the US is in no position to point fingers at China-Russia relations.In addition to pouring lethal weapons into the battlefield in Ukraine, the US has been selling sophisticated weapons to the Taiwan region in violation of the three China-US joint communiques, Mao noted. What exactly is the US up to? The world deserves to know the answer.The reports did not mention which companies had been sanctioned. However, last month, the US sanctioned Chinese satellite company Spacety for allegedly providing satellite photos to the Wagner Private Military Contractor, which is engaged with Ukrainian forces at the front.Mao also noted that the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a position paper on the Ukraine crisis on the first anniversary of the special operation, in which Beijing proposed conditions for a peace settlement and offered to mediate the talks.While the West has largely dismissed Chinas 12-point proposal as too favorable to Moscow, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he was intrigued by it, and intended to discuss it with Chinese President Xi Jinping directly. The proposal calls for a ceasefire before the talks begin.Moscow launched the operation in February 2022 after months of talks with NATO about security red lines, which included Ukraines future membership in the alliance and its potential to serve as a base for offensive weapons against Russia, failed to yield results. The operation aims to make Ukraine a neutral state, as well as to end attacks on Russian-speakers in the Donbass by neo-Nazis groups that enjoy patronage from the government in Kiev. The US has funneled more than $100 billion in various kinds of support to that government, which it helped install in a 2014 coup detat.Who is promoting peace and deescalation, and who is fueling the tension and making the world more unstable? The answer is fairly obvious, Mao asserted.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230225/biden-says-sees-no-benefit-in-chinas-ukraine-peace-plan-doubts-beijing-will-arm-russia-1107796346.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230223/china-concerned-over-us-getting-access-to-4-more-military-bases-in-philippines-1107747365.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/diplomacy-instead-of-arming-ukraine-how-peace-movement-is-scaling-up-in-europe-1107850285.html

Diplomacy Instead of Arming Ukraine: How Peace Movement is Scaling Up in Europe

Diplomacy Instead of Arming Ukraine: How Peace Movement is Scaling Up in Europe

A wave of anti-war protests has swept through Europe last weekend. Thousands of demonstrators in Germany, France and Italy rallied against arms supplies to Ukraine, warning that the NATO-fanned military escalation is fraught with the risk of sparking World War III.

2023-02-27T17:44+0000

2023-02-27T17:44+0000

2023-02-27T17:44+0000

analysis

europe

opinion

russia

ukraine

germany

nord stream

seymour hersh

peace

protests

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"Sentiments in European societies about the conflict in Ukraine should be measured in terms of penetration of cognitive warfare," Paolo Raffone, a strategic analyst and director of the CIPI Foundation in Brussels, told Sputnik. "The powerful US machine has compacted two-thirds of the sentiment on the idea that the war will end only with a Ukrainian victory."Despite most of the EU establishment publicly advocating continuous military support to Kiev, Europeans are increasingly concerned that the conflict could spill over to the Old Continent and express dissatisfaction with anti-Russia sanctions which backfired across the bloc.Thus, Italian demonstrators, who took to the streets in Rome, Genoa, Pisa, Milan, Florence and Lecce last Saturday believe that Romes pro-EU policy and confrontation with Russia have led to detrimental economic consequences for the Italian population. Meanwhile, French protesters marched through Paris on Sunday carrying banners that read: "For Peace," "No to a Third World War" and "Lets Quit NATO.""The biggest European common concern is the expansion of the conflict and the escalation to a nuclear level," Raffone said. "The second concern is the economic consequence of the induced support to Ukraine (in terms of prolonged costs). The third concern is the energy crisis that is still looming on economic activities and households."German Peace MovementSome experts suggest that Germany is the country that is poised to lose the most from the ongoing confrontation between the West and Russia. The Western European state has imported Russia's cheap gas since the 1970s. Now, Germany's status as a European industrial powerhouse is shattered given the unfolding de-industrialization in the state driven by high energy costs. The destruction of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in September came as the last straw for German industries, some of which announced their decision to relocate in October 2022.Therefore, unsurprisingly, the Nord Stream sabotage bombshell dropped by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh earlier this month prompted a heated debate in the Bundestag with the left-wing Die Linke and the right-wing Alternative fur Deutschland (AfD) calling on the German government to probe the allegations. According to Hersh, it was US and Norwegian operatives who blasted Nord Stream. If that's the case, "one would have to question whether the [NATO] alliance guarantees security in Europe or rather endangers it," stated AfD Co-Chairman Tino Chrupalla following the bombshell publication."Economic worries about the suicidal sanctions are mounting. Many are afraid that the welfare state will not be able to bear the additional burdens caused by the large number of Ukrainians. Added to this is the growing concern that the transatlantic German government is leading us more and more into active warfare. The majority of Germans are not willing to send their children to a foreign war for US interests. They understand that this war has nothing to do with 'defending our democracy'," Blex continued.Last Saturday, Die Linke helped organize a "Peace Rally" in Berlin which brought together an estimated 50,000 people. Protesters were seen waving peace flags and holding up placards that read, "Make Peace Without Weapons" and "Diplomacy Instead of Arms Deliveries."He revealed that on Sunday there was a big demonstration in Ramstein under the motto "Ami go home". According to him, there were approximately 3,000 participants, including Dr. Christina Baum, member of the German Bundestag and of the federal executive board of the AfD.Furthermore, on February 24, there was a large demonstration in Dresden with Bjorn Hocke and Dr. Christopher Barth, according to Blex. Both are parliamentary group leaders of the AfD in the state parliaments of Thuringia and Brandenburg. "The motto was 'Make peace without weapons'. In German it rhymes," he added.Divisions Brewing Within EUEven though the EU shows "unity" when it comes to arming and funding Ukraine, there are important differences within the bloc, according to Fernand Kartheiser, president of the Alternative Democratic Reform Party parliamentary group in the Luxembourg Parliament.As per the lawmaker, the peace movement in Europe is still weak. However, its significance is growing, he added."The important factors are that the criticism comes from many different directions: left and right wing parties, churches, academics, military and economic experts. Overall, one can safely assume that the peace movements will become stronger and develop a real political weight," Kartheiser explained.Europe's unwillingness to cross swords with the Biden administration, which is fanning the Russo-Ukrainian conflict by pouring more and more weapons into the zone, may cost the Old Continent its "strategic autonomy," the lawmaker warned."In those countries, where a more pronounced and more independent European identity and role are political considerations of some significance, such as in France, the president is under pressure to look for a more visible French role in the conflict and for a more tangible differentiation from Washington. In other countries, it is interesting to note that the Green parties, that were traditionally pacifistic, have now turned into quite aggressive political forces," Kartheiser observed.At the same time, Sputnik's interlocutors have admitted that Europe is not ready for a years-long conflict in Ukraine or to put its production on a war footing."The EU countries, which are still spoiled by prosperity, are not in a position to do this," Blex believes. For his part, Raffone noted that while the population would certainly like to avoid this perspective, "the political leaders are blindly slipping into it."In addition, "people will also follow the debates in the United States, where the Republican Party is much more reluctant to portray Russia as a foe than the Democrats," the lawmaker pointed out."Political wisdom, therefore, will hopefully prevail and lead to a reduction of tensions," he concluded.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230226/frenemy-how-us-deprives-germany-of-strategic-autonomy-and-status-as-industrial-powerhouse--1107807263.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230128/truth-about-tanks-how-nato-lied-its-way-to-disaster-in-ukraine-1106786081.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221111/we-have-had-enough-why-western-leaders-populations-call-for-halting-money-flow-to-ukraine-1104025789.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230220/protesters-descend-on-washington-demand-natos-dissolution-peace-negotiations-with-russia-1107600002.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/egypt-plans-to-bolster-tourism-by-30-annually-over-next-five-years-1107845091.html

Egypt Plans to Bolster Tourism by 30% Annually Over Next Five Years

Egypt Plans to Bolster Tourism by 30% Annually Over Next Five Years

Egypt is intended to boost tourism by up to 30% annually in five years, with the help of private firms and via opening a huge museum about the end of 2023, according to Egypt tourism minister, Ahmed Issa.

2023-02-27T15:36+0000

2023-02-27T15:36+0000

2023-02-27T15:36+0000

africa

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Egypt is looking to boost tourism by up to 30% annually over the next five years with the help of private firms and through the opening of a huge museum towards the end of 2023, according to Egypt's Tourism Minister Ahmed Issa. Issa outlined Egypt's immediate priorities in the sector, including flight capacity increase and investment climate upgrade, which is to be implemented through streamlining regulation.According to the minister, increasing the number of hotel rooms to half a million by 2030 from 212,000 last year could attract $30 billion in private finance.Private companies were involved in pilot projects to manage ten sites, such as the Giza pyramids, the Egyptian Museum in central Cairo, and the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) that will house prestigious artifacts of Egypt, said Issa.According to Egypt's tourism minister, losses from the two largest markets of Egypt  Russia and Ukraine  were counterbalanced by the increase in the number of visitors from Europe and other regions. The official added that he expects an increase in the number of Chinese tourists in 2023.Tourism is a crucial part of Egypt's economy, being both a vital source of foreign currency and jobs for Egypt. The sector earned $10.75 billion in the fiscal year ending June 2022, compared to $4.86 billion a year earlier when it was hit by a coronavirus pandemic. Egypt will exert efforts to develop a market for independent travelers along with packages of tour operators in the longer term, the minister concluded.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230127/archaeologists-find-record-long-book-of-the-dead-papyrus-for-first-time-in-a-century-reports-say-1106750090.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/everything-is-mystical-mexican-president-baffles-online-crowd-with-picture-of-mayan-spirit-1107837247.html

'Everything is Mystical': Mexican President Baffles Online Crowd With Picture of 'Mayan Spirit'

'Everything is Mystical': Mexican President Baffles Online Crowd With Picture of 'Mayan Spirit'

While the Mexican president suggested that the photo depicting the "spirit" he shared was supposedly taken a few days ago, some netizens insisted that the image in question has been making rounds online since at least 2021.

2023-02-27T10:51+0000

2023-02-27T10:51+0000

2023-02-27T10:51+0000

viral

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spirit

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photo

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Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador made a peculiar statement on social media last weekend when he shared a photo that supposedly depicts a bona fide creature from indigenous folklore.A tweet posted by the president features two photos, with one of them, a nighttime picture, showing some strange shape sitting on a tree.As Lopez Obrador explained in his tweet, the picture was apparently taken by an engineer at a construction site for Tren Maya railway, and supposedly depicts an alux  a spirit from the mythological tradition of some Mayan peoples in Central America.The second photo shared by the Mexican president depicts what he describes as a splendid pre-Colombian sculpture at the Ek Balam archaeological site in Yucatan.Everything is mystical, Lopez Obrador surmised in the tweets caption.The presidents post elicited a somewhat mixed reaction from the social media crowd, with one netizen, for example, jokingly suggesting that the shape in the first photo is just a raccoon with a bag on its head.Thats exactly what the woodland elf wants you to believe! another jokingly retorted to that remark.And quite a few social media users were quick to note that the nighttime photo was taken at least two years ago, and has been used in media stories since at least February 2021.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/frances-unprecedented-war-games-underway-as-paris-builds-up-military-might-1107838830.html

France Holds 'Unprecedented' War Games Amid Military Buildup

France Holds 'Unprecedented' War Games Amid Military Buildup

The drills commander, Nicolas Le Nen, called the war games the return of major military operations to French territory.

2023-02-27T13:17+0000

2023-02-27T13:17+0000

2023-02-27T14:06+0000

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More than 7,000 servicemen are currently taking part in Frances biggest military exercise in decades, which is dubbed Orion 23 and is scheduled to be wrapped up in May.Apart from French soldiers, servicemen from the US, the UK and Spain are involved in the drills that will simulate parachute operations and amphibious landings along the Mediterranean coast.The operations, which are currently in full swing across the Occitanie region in France, will then move to the Atlantic coast regions of Nouvelle Aquitaine and Brittany. The drills consist of four stages, with the most important Phase 4 expected to see a major air-land "confrontation" between France and a simulated enemy.Another French newspaper cited an unnamed military source as saying that Orion 23s goal is to "show Frances ability to be the first to enter a theatre of operations, but also to lead an international coalition."Exercise commander Nicolas Le Nen, for his part, described the drills as "the return of big operations on French soil."France to Beef Up Its Defense BudgetThese war games come amid Frances ever-increasing effort to build up its military might and Paris' bellicose rhetoric toward Moscow, which continues its special military operation in Ukraine.In late January, French President Emmanuel Macron detailed plans for a major boost to the countrys armed forces, which he said is needed to meet modern threats, naming Russia as a primary area of focus for Paris.The French president admitted that there were no more post-Cold War "peace dividends" following Russias special military operation in Ukraine, which is why he said the goal is to renew a French military that should protect the countrys freedom, security, prosperity and place in the world.The reforms, in particular, stipulate a 60% hike in the military intelligence budget to adapting to "high-intensity" conflict with investment in drones, cyber-defense and improved air defenses. Macron warned that "We [France] need to be one war ahead."He also called for France rethinking its alliances while remaining a reliable NATO ally, and deepening its relationships with Germany, the UK, Italy and Spain.National Strategic Review The remarks followed Macron unveiling Frances "national strategic review" in November 2022, aimed at defining how the countrys defense will look like in 2030.According to him, France's new strategic document provides that the country will maintain a "capacity to lead military operations, including those of high intensity, alone or within a coalition." Macron added that French troops would maintain their large presence abroad in an area stretching from sub-Saharan Africa to the Middle East.The National Strategic Review specifically focuses on nuclear deterrence regarding France, which is the only EU country with nuclear weapons. "When peace is back in Ukraine, we will need to assess all the consequences" via a "new security architecture" in Europe, Macron said.He argued that a "credible, modern" nuclear deterrence is key to building up such an architecture, adding, "our nuclear forces contribute through their own existence to the security of France and Europe."Russia to Discuss France, UK Nuclear Potential Frances Orion 23 drills kicked off a few days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the suspension of his countrys participation in the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START).The issue was also mentioned in Putins interview with Russian media on Sunday, when he said that Moscow has to return to discussing the issue of the UK and France's nuclear potential, because NATO has shown that it is a military bloc, rather than a political one.The New START deal, in effect since February 5, 2011, is the last remaining legally binding agreement between the US and Russia. Under the document, Moscow and Washington have been required to reduce their nuclear arsenal to a total of 700 missiles, 800 launchers and 1,550 deployed warheads. The treaty was set to expire last year, but both sides managed to find common ground to approve a prolongation of the accord for five more years without renegotiating any of its terms.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221011/france-to-build-up-military-presence-in-eastern-europe-within-nato-framework---minister-1101739301.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230226/putin-says-russia-has-to-return-to-discussing-nuclear-potential-of-uk-and-france-1107812774.html

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france's 'unprecedentred' military drills, france's national strategic review, russia's suspension of its participation in new start, nuclear potential of france and uk
Moscow Working on Targeted Measures in Response to Sanctions Imposed by US and Canada

Moscow is working on measures in response to anti-Russia sanctions imposed by the US and Canada that will specifically target Washington and Ottawa, the foreign ministry announced on Monday.

The Russian ministry stressed that the restrictions introduced by the United States and Canada are aimed at isolating Moscow from global economy, and slammed the sanctions as thoughtless and futile.

According to Moscow, the counter-sanctions will be based on the principle of reciprocity and "inevitability of punishment."
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/number-of-states-seeking-to-join-brics-sco-surged-to-20-lavrov-says-1107833986.html

Number of States Seeking to Join BRICS and SCO Surges to 20, Lavrov Says

Number of States Seeking to Join BRICS and SCO Surges to 20, Lavrov Says

The number of countries willing to join the BRICS and SCO groups has surged to 20, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated during a meeting with the heads of offices of the Russian Foreign Ministry in regions.

2023-02-27T09:54+0000

2023-02-27T09:54+0000

2023-02-27T10:37+0000

africa

russian foreign ministry

sergey lavrov

foreign minister

brics

brics summit

shanghai cooperation organisation (sco)

cooperation

member states

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The number of countries applying to join the BRICS and Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has surged to 20, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated during a meeting with the regional heads of office of the Russian Foreign Ministry. He added that many of those who have applied play an important role in their regions. These include Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Mexico and Egypt. The minister noted that the list of these countries itself clearly demonstrates "the failure of the West's attempts to isolate" Russia, which is member of both BRICS and SCO. The intentions of these states to join the blocs likewise reflect the failure of the West's strategy, which resulted in a "reverse effect." According to Lavrov, the understanding of the "geopolitical tectonic process" pushes the countries to cooperate with "like-minded partners." The main reason for this, he added, is that they are willing to be independent in their actions and in any partnership promote their own national interests first and foremost and "not someone else's whims."In this light, cooperation with Russia, as well as with other member states of the regional blocs, provides "a huge field for interaction."During the meeting, Lavrov also urged Russian regions to cooperate with the BRICS and SCO. According to the minister, there are already formats within these organizations that are aimed at regional interaction and cooperation between regions and provinces of the participating countries.BRICS is an informal association of the world's major developing economies formed in 2006, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India and China, with South Africa joining the group in 2010. Potential candidates for accession include such countries as Argentina, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Algeria and Turkey. These nations have expressed their interest in joining the group over the past months and years. In particular, Algeria submitted its official application in November last year. In December, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed hope that his country could join the alliance in 2023. Earlier this month, the Russian foreign minister revealed that "Algeria, due to all its merits, is among the leading contenders" for BRICS membership.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230209/lavrov-in-sudan-moscow-and-khartoum-ratify-russian-navy-logistics-base-1107267350.html

africa

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Maria Konokhova

Maria Konokhova

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russia, africa, cooperation, brics, sco, russian foreign minister sergey lavrov, membership
JAKARTA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia and Singapore have agreed to establish an annual defense forum to strengthen their military partnership in order to support stability in the Southeast Asia region, Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto said on Monday.

Subianto said that the forum for defense partnership committee, which would have a military sub-committee in it, was expected to be a place for both countries to further discuss military cooperation in various fields, and to create new areas of cooperation.

The plan was conveyed on Monday during a visit by Singapore's Chief of Defense Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong to Jakarta during his close-door meeting with Subianto.

"Indonesia fully supports the strengthening of our close military cooperation with Singapore that we have built based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and full respect for each country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as international laws," Subianto noted.

He also said the military partnership between the two nations has become more significant after Indonesia ratified last December the Defense Cooperation Agreement between Indonesia and Singapore, a deal which aims to boost both countries' defense capabilities through security dialogues, intelligence sharing, scientific cooperation and joint military exercises. 
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/over-3000-people-including-us-congressmen-sign-petition-against-ukraine-church-persecution-1107850789.html

Over 3,000 People, Including US Congressmen, Sign Petition Against Ukraine Church Persecution

Over 3,000 People, Including US Congressmen, Sign Petition Against Ukraine Church Persecution

Over 3,000 individuals and entities, including Orthodox religious institutions across the world as well as US lawmakers, have signed a petition urging Western religious, education and other organizations to condemn the persecution of the canonical Ukrainian Orthodox Church by Ukrainian authorities.

2023-02-27T17:30+0000

2023-02-27T17:30+0000

2023-02-27T17:30+0000

world

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ukraine

russia

ukrainian orthodox church (uoc)

ukrainian orthodox church of the moscow patriarchate (uoc-mp)

persecution of christians

persecution

religious persecution

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"We signers of this petition call upon the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, all Orthodox jurisdictions in the West, all official Orthodox Christian ministries and institutions of higher education, all human rights organizations, the Roman Catholic Church, all other Christian bodies of good will, and any other concerned organizations to immediately draft statements decrying the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and demanding its immediate cessation. We cannot be silent in the face of Christian persecution enabled by our own governments," the petition published at OrthodoxReflections.com reads. The list of petitioners includes the Moscow Patriarchate, Constantinople Patriarchate, Patriarchate of Jerusalem, Patriarchate of Antioch, Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America, Orthodox Church in America, along with other Christian churches and jurisdictions in North America and other countries. US Senators Rand Paul, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, as well as Representatives Thomas Massie and Daniel Webster also signed the petition, according to the list. The petition, which has also been signed by many Ukrainians, notes that among many other violations of human rights, Orthodox Christians in Ukraine have been targeted with the forcible seizure or closure of parishes, unlawful arrests, physical abuse, abusive searches of holy sites, and desecrations of holy objects. Since the Ukrainian government is "wholly dependent on Western financial and military support for its continued existence," Christians in the West bear a "substantial responsibility to speak for the Ukrainian victims of persecution," the petition said. Since the beginning of Russia's special military operation, the Ukrainian authorities have intensified their crackdown on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate. In January this year, the Ukrainian government submitted a bill with the parliament to ban the activities of "Russia-affiliated" religious organizations in the country.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230120/kiev-seeks-to-ban-ukrainian-orthodox-church-as-part-of-religious-crackdown-1106526197.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/over-40-of-republican-voters-would-support-trump-in-2024-gop-primaries-poll-shows-1107842862.html

Over 40% of Republican Voters Would Support Trump in 2024 GOP Primaries, Poll Shows

Over 40% of Republican Voters Would Support Trump in 2024 GOP Primaries, Poll Shows

The survey also indicated that Trump is followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who was backed by 28% of potential voters and has yet to announce his presidential bid.

2023-02-27T13:50+0000

2023-02-27T13:50+0000

2023-02-27T13:50+0000

americas

us

donald trump

ron desantis

nikki haley

poll

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More than 40% of respondents would support the candidacy of former POTUS Donald Trump in the 2024 GOP primaries, aimed at determining the Republicans' presidential candidate, a new poll has revealed.He is followed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 28%, former US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence at 7% each, as well as and Texas Governor Greg Abbott and House Republican Liz Cheney at 2% each.The poll comes after Trump quipped at DeSantis, delivering a fresh barb via his Truth Social platform. The 45th president branded the Florida governor a "RINO in disguise" - with the acronym RINO standing for Republican In Name Only  and insisted that the governors "poll numbers are dropping like a rock."Trumps repeated verbal attacks against the Florida governor come amid speculation that the latter may oppose the 45th president in the upcoming primaries, even though DeSantis himself hasnt yet announced his intent to run.The former POTUS declared his bid in mid-November 2022, when he stressed that "in order to make America great and glorious again, I am [] announcing my candidacy for president of the United States."Apart from Trump, entering the presidential race is Nikki Haley, who announced her bid in mid-February, saying that "It's time for a new generation of leadership."She laid out some of her key campaign points, including that US businesses must hire Americans and not illegal immigrants, implement term limits for Congress, require mandatory mental competency tests for US politicians over 75 years old, increase domestic energy production, and prevent wars, among others.In 2021, Haley, who served as South Carolina governor between 2011 and 2017, said that she would not run for the presidency in 2024 if Trump decides to run, adding that she would support the former president if he decided to do so.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230123/trump-and-desantis-would-beat-biden-if-2024-elections-were-held-today-poll-shows-1106617391.html

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2024 us republican party primaries, donald trump's 2024 presindential bid, donald trump's criticism of florida governor ron desantis
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/pkk-receives-significant-financial-support-in-sweden-stockholm-admits-1107832052.html

PKK Getting 'Significant' Financial Support in Sweden, Stockholm Admits

PKK Getting 'Significant' Financial Support in Sweden, Stockholm Admits

The PKK and like-minded Kurdish groups have become a stumbling block in talks between Sweden and Turkiye about the former's NATO membership.

2023-02-27T06:47+0000

2023-02-27T06:47+0000

2023-02-27T15:00+0000

world

sweden

scandinavia

news

turkiye

pkk

kurdistan workers' party (pkk)

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The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been designated as a terrorist organization by Turkiye, the US, the EU and other countries, is getting bankrolled in Sweden, the country's Security Police (SAPO) has acknowledged.Susanna Trehorning, SAPO's deputy head of counter-terrorism, told national media that the PKK receives "significant" financial support in Sweden, without specifying the amount.The Security Police do not believe that the PKK pose any sort of direct threat involving attacks against Sweden. "However, we see that they conduct supporting activities such as solicitation, recruitment and financing to back terrorist activities in another country or Sweden," Trehorning told Swedish media.Trehorning also stressed that the police and the security services are working hard to ferret out criminals and their sympathizers, and that they recently arrested an individual who was extorting businesses on behalf of the PKK. Still, she said that the total number of PKK sympathizers remained unknown.In late January, Oscar Stenstrom, Sweden's chief negotiator for NATO membership, admitted that organized crime groups in Sweden finance the PKK, and unlike neighboring Finland, the PKK has more sources of financial support in Sweden.Previously, the PKK and like-minded Kurdish groups have become a stumbling block in talks between Sweden and Turkiye about NATO membership. Turkiye has repeatedly slammed Sweden for harboring the PKK and stated that Sweden therefore doesn't belong in the US-led military alliance, unless it launches a serious crackdown. Ankara even provided Stockholm with a wishlist of Kurdish activists it would like to see deported.The Swedish minority government led by the liberal-conservative Moderates has been at pains to fulfill its NATO aspirations without damaging its reputation or losing face. So far, however, Sweden has green-lit arms exports to Turkiye it had previously put on hold over Ankara's military operation against Kurdish militants in Syria. It also expelled a number of people at the behest of Ankara, earning a chorus of condemnation from human rights groups and the left-wing opposition. Most recently, the country's police banned Quran-burning, following several instances of the holy Muslim book being set alight during political protests near the Turkish embassy. Many critics interpreted it as sacrificing freedom of speech in order to attain the country's security goals, with the fate of Sweden's NATO bid, filed in May 2022, hinging on Turkiye.In walking the NATO tightrope, the Moderate-led government has come under fire from both the left-wing opposition and its national-conservative allies, the Sweden Democrats, who vehemently opposed all encroachment on free speech for political ends.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230218/sweden-finland-should-join-nato-by-mid-july--bloc-chief-says-1107581077.html

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Igor Kuznetsov

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sweden's nato bid, kurdistan workers' party (pkk), swedish-turkish relations, political protests, terrorism financing
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/russia-china-south-africa-end-naval-exercises-in-indian-ocean-1107846611.html

Russia, China, South Africa End Naval Exercises in Indian Ocean

Russia, China, South Africa End Naval Exercises in Indian Ocean

"Today, a trilateral naval exercise with the participation of warships and support vessels of the Russian navy, the Chinese People's Liberation Army navy, and the South African National Defense Forces ended in the Indian Ocean."

2023-02-27T14:56+0000

2023-02-27T14:56+0000

2023-02-27T14:56+0000

africa

southern africa

russia

china

south africa

naval drills

naval exercises

joint military exercises

brics

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"Today, a trilateral naval exercise with the participation of warships and support vessels of the Russian navy, the Chinese People's Liberation Army navy, and the South African National Defense Forces ended in the Indian Ocean," the ministry said in a statement.As part of the drills that kicked off last Saturday, warships from the three countries fired artillery at a sea target and practiced freeing a captured ship with hostages, as well as providing assistance to a ship in distress.The Chinese Defense Ministry said that the drills would further advance defense and security cooperation between the BRICS countries. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, in turn, criticized the South African government for participating in the exercises and accused it of "adopting the experience of the Russian military machine."

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/russian-chocolates-oatmeal-and-sauces-are-going-to-asia-and-middle-east-1107843743.html

'Made in Russia' Chocolate, Oatmeal, Sauces Bound for Asia and Middle East

'Made in Russia' Chocolate, Oatmeal, Sauces Bound for Asia and Middle East

Russian exporters held about 500 B2B meetings with partners from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India and other countries of Asia and the Middle East at the Gulfood 2023.

2023-02-27T14:21+0000

2023-02-27T14:21+0000

2023-02-27T14:53+0000

russia

russian export center jsc (rec)

russian exporters

made in russia

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The Russian Export Center provides support to companies within the framework of the International Cooperation and Exports national project.Russian companies have long supplied the Middle East and Asia with a wide range of food products, including confectionery, poultry, cereals, grains and more. Participation in the Gulfood exhibition allows Russian exporters to expand their supplies. For example, after the talks chocolate paste from St. Petersburg could go to Asian countries, oatmeal from the Krasnodar region could head to India, turkey from the Penza region and organic chocolate from the Leningrad region could go to Saudi Arabia, and Kuban sauces to the supermarket chain Carrefour, the report said.The 28th edition of Gulfood 2023, the largest international food and beverage sourcing event, took place in Dubai on February 20-24. The "Made in Russia" stand featured 75 companies from the Russian Federation.Visitors could get acquainted with products and beverages at the REC-organized "Made in Russia" stand covering more than 1,000 square meters. The exposition was the largest in the history of Russian companies partkaing in the Gulfood event.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230222/russian-export-potential-at-gulfood-2023-already-exceeds-20-million-rec-says-1107707425.html

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russian exporters conquer new markets, russian exporters expand to asia and middle east, russian chocolate for middle east
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/russian-intel-head-naryshkin-slams-reports-of-dispiriting-meeting-with-cia-chief-1107840022.html

Russian Intel Boss Responds to CIA Chief's Claim of 'Dispiriting' Turkiye Meeting

Russian Intel Boss Responds to CIA Chief's Claim of 'Dispiriting' Turkiye Meeting

Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) Director Sergey Naryshkin said on Monday he retains a positive assessment of the nature and results of his meeting with US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) chief William Burns in Turkiye

2023-02-27T11:38+0000

2023-02-27T11:38+0000

2023-02-27T12:11+0000

russia

william burns

sergey naryshkin

russia

us

turkiye

cia

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On Sunday, during an interview with CBS News, Burns claimed that Naryshkin's behavior during their talks in Ankara in November 2022 was "defiant", with the US spy chief going on to describe the meeting as "pretty dispiriting."The SVR chief also said he maintained great respect for Burns "as a very experienced, skillful diplomat, and as a colleague who probably has not yet obtained much experience as director of the Central Intelligence Agency." Naryshkin recalled that the meeting in Ankara had lasted for two and a half hours and suggested that it would not have gone on for so long if one of the parties had behaved rudely or arrogantly. Naryshkin met with Burns on November 14, 2022 in Ankara. After the conversation, the SVR director confirmed in an interview with Sputnik that he had met with his US counterpart to discuss nuclear safety and the Ukraine conflict. In mid-January 2023, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov revealed that the meeting was arranged at the request of US President Joe Biden to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/russian-navy-to-receive-4-new-warships-in-first-half-of-2023-1107835713.html

Russian Navy to Receive 4 New Warships in First Half of 2023

Russian Navy to Receive 4 New Warships in First Half of 2023

The Russian navy will receive by July 2023 four new warships, which were initially scheduled for transfer to the fleet in 2022, United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) CEO Alexei Rakhmanov told Sputnik.

2023-02-27T09:42+0000

2023-02-27T09:42+0000

2023-02-27T09:42+0000

russia

russian navy

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In February, the Admiral Golovko frigate will be transferred to the Northern Fleet to complete state tests with the implementation of combat exercises and then, the ship will be handed over to the Russian navy, the USC head added. In total, the USC plans to transfer at least 11 vessels to the Russian navy in 2023, including five submarines (three nuclear and two diesel), as well as ships designated for near and far maritime zones, the corporation's chief said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221205/how-many-nuclear-submarines-does-russia-have-1105034535.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/south-africa-being-graylisted-by-fatf-less-dire-than-some-suggest-president-says-1107840192.html

South Africa Being Graylisted by Paris-Based Watchdog 'Less Dire Than Some Suggest', President Says

South Africa Being Graylisted by Paris-Based Watchdog 'Less Dire Than Some Suggest', President Says

South Africa has been placed in a "grey list" by Financial Action Task Force (FATF). South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated that the situation is "concerning" but not as "dire" as some would suggest.

2023-02-27T13:51+0000

2023-02-27T13:51+0000

2023-02-28T12:33+0000

africa

southern africa

south africa

cyril ramaphosa

financial problems

financial crime

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that putting the country on the gray list is "concerning" but not as "dire" as some would suggest.The global watchdog graylisted South Africa on 24 February. According to the organization, the country lags behind international standards for fighting money laundering and other financial crimes.President Cyril Ramaphosa noted that South Africa, like other countries, was facing problems caused by globalized crime, and in this regard welcomed the strengthening of FATF control.Ramaphosa also pointed out that South Africa has been working together with the watchdog for 20 years, thus emphasizing the country's dedication to fighting felonious activities both domestically and globally.Trying to find something positive to highlight, South Africa's president outlined that this situation is an opportunity for the country to step up its fight against financial crimes. Ramaphosa also stated that South Africa knows how to overcome the problem and intends to get off the gray list as soon as possible.The FATF is a Paris-based intergovernmental organization that establishes standards in order to combat various financial crimes. South Africa has been cooperatiing with the FATF for 20 years, since it became a member in 2003.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230223/south-africas-eskom-head-to-leave-position-with-immediate-effect-amid-power-crisis-1107729696.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/turkish-foreign-minister-says-ankara-still-unable-to-approve-swedens-nato-application-1107840694.html

Turkish Foreign Minister Says Ankara Still Unable to Approve Sweden's NATO Application

Turkish Foreign Minister Says Ankara Still Unable to Approve Sweden's NATO Application

Turkiye is still unable to approve Sweden's accession to NATO at this stage as Stockholm has not fully implemented its agreements with Ankara, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Monday.

2023-02-27T12:09+0000

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The top Turkish diplomat acknowledged that the Swedish authorities had implemented a number of obligations under the Madrid memo, but noted that the Kurdistan Workers' Party was still operating in the country. At the same time, this situation is more of a NATO problem, Cavusoglu said, adding that Ankara had no other claims to Sweden and Finland in bilateral relations. Sweden and Finland applied for NATO membership in May 2022, several months after Russia launched a military operation in Ukraine. Their membership bids were initially blocked by Turkiye, which accused Stockholm and Helsinki of supporting "terrorists," referring to supporters of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, which Ankara considers a terrorist organization. Turkiye lifted its objections after the three leaders met in Madrid in June 2022 where they signed a security memorandum, which unblocked the process of accession of the two Nordic countries to the alliance. However, the accession process came to another standstill in January 2023 following Quran-burning incident in Sweden, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan saying that Stockholm should not count on Ankara's support for its NATO bid. Turkiye also discussed with other NATO members the possibility of approving Finland's application separately. The talks with Sweden also resumed. Hungary has joined Turkiye as the only NATO member countries that have not ratified Finland and Sweden's accession protocols yet. On Friday, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said that the Hungarian parliament "was not enthusiastic" about ratifying the bids since the Finnish and Swedish authorities were spreading "shameless lies'' about Budapest. In addition, Orban said that if Finland and Sweden were admitted into NATO, the immediate border between the alliance and Russia would increase by 1,000 kilometers (621 miles).

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230131/ankara-will-not-approve-sweden-finland-nato-membership-under-current-conditions-turkish-fm-says-1106852219.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230203/finns-ready-for-nato-without-sweden-while-pm-promises-hand-in-hand-accession-1106939026.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/uk-and-eu-reach-deal-on-northern-ireland-trade-rules-1107845595.html

UK and EU Reach Deal on Northern Ireland Trade Rules

UK and EU Reach Deal on Northern Ireland Trade Rules

The Northern Ireland Protocol, added to the UK's withdrawal agreement with the EU, has inflamed sectarian tensions over the imposition of a customs border between the exclave and the British mainland.

2023-02-27T14:31+0000

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The UK and European Union (EU) have reached agreement on changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol.British prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the EU's executive the European Commission, met for talks in Windsor, just west of London, at lunchtime.Von der Leyen was also reportedly granted an audience with King Charles III at Windsor Castle.At a press conference later in the afternoon, Sunak said they had re-written the agreement, which he re-dubbed the "Windsor Framework," in three key spheres.Sunak said the deal "delivers the smooth flow of trade" with a "green lane" for goods destined to be sold in Northern Ireland, with far less red tape  and no need to complete customs forms for online purchases from the mainland.The new agreement also allows the UK to veto the application of changes in EU legislation in Northern Ireland  if the devolved Stormont assembly votes to "pull the brake."Von der Leyen said she and "dear Rishi" had agreed the "Windsor Framework," but only "in principle"  suggesting that it would have to be ratified by leaders of EU states as well as by Westminster.She insisted that the revised agreement would preserve the 1999 Good Friday Agreement, which ended three decades of sectarian terrorism in Northern Ireland. And she condemned the shooting of Police Service for Norther Ireland (PSNI) Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell in Omagh last week.Sunak said MPs would get a vote on the deal at an "appropriate time," and that their opinion would be "respected". He and other government ministers have been evasive on whether Parliament would have the final say on any compromise with Brussels.Minutes before the news of a deal broke, Northern Irish Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he was ambivalent about the prospect of a deal."I'm neither positive nor negative," Donaldson said. "We need to take time to look at the deal, what's available, and how does that match our seven tests."The protocol, an annexe to the UK's 2020 post-Brexit withdrawal agreement with Brussels, keeps the UK's exclave of Northern Ireland within the EU's single market.The Republic of Ireland, a member of the bloc, insisted that 'backstop' arrangement was necessary to avoid a 'hard border' with customs checks that might breach the terms of the Good Friday Agreement.But that has meant customs checks on goods coming from mainland Britain and even bans on certain products like sausages and potted nursery plants. That has angered the majority unionist community, leading to unrest and a hoax bomb threat to Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/uk-and-eu-begin-final-round-of-talks-on-windsor-deal-to-fix-ni-protocol-1107835671.html

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BAKU, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on Monday, saying regional security remains a relevant issue in relations between the two countries.

"Regional security remains a very topical issue in our relations, both from bilateral and multilateral aspects," said Lavrov, who met with Aliyev shortly after landing in Baku in the evening.

"Many of our international colleagues ... are showing a keen interest in helping move forward along the path of a settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia," he said.

Lavrov said Moscow welcomes any efforts seeking to stabilize the situation and pave the way "for all the countries located here to have the opportunity to cooperate normally" on the basis of mutual respect, mutual benefit, and in the interests of their countries and peoples.

Aliyev said Russia has a special role to play in fostering the settlement of intergovernmental relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

"Last year, important efforts were made in this direction, documents were adopted that define the conceptual nature of the future peace treaty, namely, mutual recognition of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the two countries, which was confirmed by the documents adopted in Prague and Sochi last October. These documents are the foundation that can be used to reach a peace treaty," said the Azerbaijani president.

Aliyev said Azerbaijan is determined to work positively and constructively with the Armenian side, and with the Russian side, in order to "quickly turn this page of hostility and bring peace back to the South Caucasus."

In Baku, Lavrov will also meet with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov, and attend a conference focusing on Azerbaijan-Russia relations in the context of regional security.

Lavrov's two-day working visit marks the anniversary of the signing in February last year of the declaration on allied interaction between Azerbaijan and Russia. 
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/un-must-give-framework-for-nord-stream-blasts-probe-hungarian-fm-says-1107830710.html

UN Must 'Give Framework' for Nord Stream Blasts Probe, Hungarian FM Says

UN Must 'Give Framework' for Nord Stream Blasts Probe, Hungarian FM Says

The United Nations should get involved in investigating the explosions at the Nord Stream gas pipelines, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said in an interview with Sputnik.

2023-02-27T04:42+0000

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Earlier in February, Pulitzer Prize-winning US investigative journalist Seymour Hersh published a report saying that, during NATO Baltops exercises in the summer of 2022, US Navy divers planted explosives to destroy the Nord Stream pipelines, which Norway activated three months later. The report added that US President Joe Biden had decided to sabotage the Nord Streams after more than nine months of secret discussions with the national security team. The underwater explosions took place in September 2022, damaging three of the four strings of Nord Stream 1 and 2. Germany, Denmark, and Sweden launched separate investigations into the incident - however, the European nations sidelined Moscow from their probes, not providing any data on their findings.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/us-house-committees-to-launch-probe-into-ohio-chemical-train-wreck-media-reports-1107831933.html

US House Committees to Launch Probe Into Ohio Chemical Train Wreck, Media Reports

US House Committees to Launch Probe Into Ohio Chemical Train Wreck, Media Reports

Several committees of the US House of Representatives controlled by the Republican Party are going to launch investigations into the toxic train derailment in Ohio, American media reported on Monday, citing sources.

2023-02-27T05:58+0000

2023-02-27T05:58+0000

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The Republicans intend to use the oversight powers provided by Congress in order to investigate what they describe as the Biden administration's flawed response to the train wreck, the sources said. The intensified calls by the Republicans to investigate the disaster reportedly come as several lawmakers have criticized President Joe Biden for not visiting the train wreck scene. On February 3, a train hauling 20 cars from Norfolk Southern with hazardous materials derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. A big fire erupted due to the derailment, leading to officials burning vinyl chloride inside five of the tanker cars to avoid a catastrophic explosion. The accident released toxic chemicals, including hydrogen chloride, phosgene, butyl acrylate, and ethylene, into the environment. Despite repeated assurances that the air and water are safe, residents in the area have told Sputnik of recent health impacts, including headaches, burning skin, and irritated eyes, as well as anxiety about long-term health risks such as cancer. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources told Sputnik in mid-February that approximately 3,500 fish had died in waterways near the train derailment site.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230226/oops-i-did-it-again-another-norfolk-southern-derails-in-us-company-claims-no-hazmat-situation-1107820134.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/watch-israeli-settlers-burn-dozens-of-palestinian-homes-cars-in-deadly-nablus-pogrom-1107851965.html

Watch: Israeli Settlers Burn Dozens of Palestinian Homes, Cars in Deadly Nablus Pogrom

Watch: Israeli Settlers Burn Dozens of Palestinian Homes, Cars in Deadly Nablus Pogrom

An estimated 400 Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians and their homes and property in the West Bank town of Huwara, a southern district of Nablus, on Sunday night in what has been called the worst outbreak of settler violence there in decades.

2023-02-27T19:50+0000

2023-02-27T19:50+0000

2023-02-27T19:49+0000

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An estimated 400 Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians and their homes and property in the West Bank town of Huwara, a southern district of Nablus, on Sunday night in what has been called the worst outbreak of settler violence there in decades.Video posted on social media showed columns of fire and smoke pouring in the sky, and captured Israeli settlers pausing their attack for evening prayers, drawing criticism from Jews online for doing so.According to the Palestinian health ministry, a 37-year-old man was shot and killed by Israelis during the riot, and two others had been wounded by gunfire. Another person was treated for stab wounds, and a fifth had been beaten with an iron bar. Another 350 people were also being treated for tear gas inhalation.The violence was widely denounced in the US, France, and the Israeli human rights NGO BTselem, the lattermost of which accused the Israeli government of encouraging the attack, which it called a pogrom.After the attack, a large number of protesters gathered in Tel Aviv carrying signs that read Palestinian Lives Matter and demonstrating against the settlers attack.Brothers KilledThe events were largely set in motion earlier in the day, when two Jewish Israelis were shot dead in the town.21-year-old Hillel Yaniv and 19-year-old Yagel Yaniv, two brothers from the nearby settlement of Har Bracha, were shot dead at close range in their car in Hawara. They were transported to Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva for treatment, where they were pronounced dead. According to witnesses cited in Israeli media, the Palestinian gunman was wearing a shirt bearing the insignia of the Lions Den, a militant group based in Nablus.After the shooting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir issued a joint statement saying they had just approved a law legalizing the death penalty for anyone convicted of terrorism against Israelis.He called for the return of Israeli delegates to a security summit in the Jordanian city of Aqaba with Palestinian, Jordanian, Egyptian, and American delegates to talk about the situation in the West Bank and Gaza.Months of Deadly RaidsThe West Bank, which has been under Israeli control since 1967 but over much of which the Palestinian National Authority claims some level of control, has been the site of increasing violence between Jewish settlers and Palestinians.Since late last year, operations by the IDF and Shin Bet, Israels internal security agency, in the West Bank have been almost nightly occurrences. One raid in Nablus last October saw more than 100 IDF vehicles rush into the city after sunset for a raid against the Lions Den that resulted in five Palestinian deaths and 21 others being wounded. Another in the Jenin refugee camp in January allegedly aimed at detaining several members of Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). However, the raid resulted in the deaths of 10 people, including children and elderly, and over a dozen others were injured by, among other things, the tear-gassing of a hospital.Tensions have been building in the West Bank for years, though, and the recent violence has many fearing the beginning of a Third Intifada, or Palestinian mass uprising. Two previous uprisings, from 1987 to 1993 and from 2000 to 2005, resulted in Israel granting major concessions to Palestinians at the cost of thousands of lives on both sides.During a recent meeting with PNA President Mahmoud Abbas, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reportedly advised him to reassert PNA control over Nablus and Jenin; PNA officials replied that they had already lost the legitimacy needed to operate in both cities. Abbas government, in power since 2006, has been widely criticized for its corruption and for cooperating with Israeli authorities against grassroots Palestinian resistance groups.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230213/israel-approves-nine-settlements-in-west-bank-says-israels-national-security-minister-1107360965.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230225/hundreds-of-thousands-march-against-judicial-reform-in-israel-1107808672.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230227/wuhan-lab-leak-yarn-returns-how-us-reporter-pours-gasoline-into-washingtons-war-machine-1107846929.html

Wuhan Lab 'Leak' Yarn Returns: How US Reporter Pours Gasoline Into Washington's War Machine

Wuhan Lab 'Leak' Yarn Returns: How US Reporter Pours Gasoline Into Washington's War Machine

The US Energy Department has claimed that the COVID pandemic most likely stemmed from a laboratory leak, the Wall Street Journal broke on Sunday, citing a... 27.02.2023, Sputnik International

2023-02-27T15:35+0000

2023-02-27T15:35+0000

2023-04-13T12:45+0000

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"It is becoming clearer by the day that the government of the United States has become so delusional with its own lies that it is becoming violent against anyone exposing them," Scott Bennett, former US Army psychological warfare officer and US State Department counterterrorism analyst, told Sputnik."It is becoming so toxic that every nation which in the past enjoyed friendship with the United States is now disconnecting all association, like someone backing away from a snarling, rabid dog about to bite," he continued.The US Energy Department and the FBI have alleged that the coronavirus spread "via a mishap at a Chinese laboratory," according to the US media report co-authored by Michael R. Gordon.However, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that theres "a variety of views" in the US intelligence community about whether the virus originated naturally or in a lab and he "cant confirm or deny" the Wall Street Journal report.US Media Flip-Flopping on COVID OriginsMeanwhile, the coverage of the pandemic's origins has prompted a lot of controversy in the US mainstream media over the past three years. It was then-President Donald Trump who attempted to pin the blame on China for the COVID outbreak, specifically pointing the finger at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).The Chinese government rubbished the claim at the time, with Wang Yanyi, an immunologist and director of the institute, revealing that WIV first received a clinical sample of the unknown virus that later became known as SARS-CoV-2 on December 30, 2019.For his part, Trump's COVID czar Dr. Anthony Fauci resolutely rejected the notion that the coronavirus was created in a lab during a White House press conference on April 17, 2020. He insisted that available evidence on the origins of the virus is "totally consistent with a jump from a species from an animal to a human."When Secretary of State Mike Pompeo claimed in May 2020 that there is "enormous" evidence that the virus came from a virology laboratory in Wuhan, US Democratic lawmakers subjected him to criticism and demanded that he unveil proof. Otherwise, they insisted, the Trump administration should quit hyping questionable information. The US mainstream media ridiculed Trump's Wuhan lab theory as a conspiracy story, as no evidence had been presented to corroborate the allegations.However, when Joe Biden assumed office, the Democrats and Dr. Fauci made a sudden U-turn, and called for an investigation into the alleged lab leak version. Thus on May 11, 2021, Fauci told US lawmakers that the possibility of the virus having escaped from the Chinese lab "certainly exists." The US Big Media and Big Tech followed the suit and shifted the goalposts on what previously they claimed to be a crackpot idea.On June 8, 2021, Gordon co-authored a WSJ article citing a May 2020 classified study by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California that alleged that the hypothesis claiming the virus leaked from a Chinese lab in Wuhan was "plausible" and deserved further investigation.On June 20, 2021, Jake Sullivan threatened China with "international isolation" if it failed to allow a "real" investigation into the origins of the virus. However, China's Foreign Ministry denounced the probe and accused Washington of "political manipulation and blame shifting."The then-Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Zhao Lijian, said that Sullivan's statement was nothing short of a "blatant threat," which China objected to and wouldn't accept.If the US really wants to get to the bottom of the pandemic outbreak, Zhao continued, it should shed light on a National Institutes of Health (NIH) report suggesting coronavirus existed in the US as early as December 2019 and disclose the real situation of the biological lab at Fort Detrick, Maryland. The Chinese have also repeatedly urged Washington to lift the veil of secrecy on what exactly is going on in hundreds of US overseas bio-laboratories supervised by the Pentagon.Meanwhile, on September 2, 2021, the Washington Post broke that the US intelligence communitys probe into the origins of COVID-19 produced "no detectable insight into how the pandemic started." Judging from the August 27, 2021, intelligence summary, four intelligence community elements said the outbreak occurred naturally (up from two in May) while just one agency maintained, "with moderate confidence," that a lab accident was to blame. The media outlet said it was unclear whether it was the FBI or the Defense Intelligence Agency that believed that the virus escaped the Wuhan lab. "It doesnt matter. The bottom line is, our spies have no idea what happened in Wuhan," the report pointed out.Gordon's Record: Untrustworthy Militarist?Remarkably, Gordon's latest "bombshell" has failed to produce any evidence of SARS-CoV-2 origins from the Chinese lab even though it claims that the Energy Departments conclusion is the result of "new intelligence." However, US officials declined to give details on "the fresh intelligence," the report added.What apparently is more important is that the Energy Department made its judgment with "low confidence." Moreover, over the past two years, the US intelligence community has not changed its views on the pandemic's origins. According to Gordon's report, only one intelligence agency  the FBI  still maintains that the lab leak was to blame, while four agencies along with a national intelligence panel are still saying that the pandemic was likely the result of a natural transmission. It appears that nothing has changed much in the perception of the issue by the US intelligence community despite the emergence of "fresh intelligence."Sputnik's interlocutors, who have monitored the development of the US media COVID origins saga from the start, draw attention to the fact that Washington is using the Wuhan lab leak theory as nothing short of a tool to exert pressure on Beijing.Remarkably, it seems that it's not the first time that Michael R. Gordon has "broken" news in the interests of the US establishment.On September 8, 2002, Gordon co-authored the frontpage New York Times story hyping up the idea that Iraq was trying to get special aluminum tubes for its nuclear weapons program. The story relied on some intelligence sources and Iraqi defectors and created an atmosphere of gloom and doom. According to his critics, Gordon's piece came in handy for the Bush administrations advertising intervention in Iraq.Later, however, it turned out that the Iraq WMD story was utterly false and aluminum tubes were actually meant for artillery, not for nuclear centrifuges. Interestingly enough, Gordon was up in arms about the US withdrawal from Iraq: he particularly criticized the policy in his November 2006 article titled "Get Out of Iraq Now? Not So Fast, Experts Say." According to some reports, Gordon used to be the "mouthpiece" for the US military faction in Iraq, led by Gen. David H. Petraeus, that promoted the escalation. In 2007, the US reporter peddled speculations, relying heavily on US anonymous sources, that the Iranian government was allegedly sending weapons to Iraq.Gordon's name is also associated with the NYT botched "vector analysis" of September 17, 2013, that traced the flight paths of two rockets, recovered in the suburbs of Damascus after the August 21, 2013 gas attack, back to a Syrian government forces' base 9.5 kilometers away. However, the story fell apart after rocket scientists analyzed the rockets and determined that they had a maximum range of about 2 km. Still, the botched "bombshell" almost pushed the Obama administration into yet another Mideast conflict.In April 2014, Gordon was at it again, claiming that the population of Donbass, which was disgusted by the February 2014 military coup d'etat in Kiev and protested against the violent overthrow of democratically elected Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich on February 22, 2014, was "directed" by Russia's armed "green men" and intelligence forces. To back his claims the journalist showed grainy photographs provided by the Kiev neo-Nazi caretaker regime.However, the media piece co-authored by Gordon and his colleagues Andrew Higgins and Andrew E. Kramer obviously played into the hands of the post-coup authorities in Kiev which sought justification for the forthcoming violent attack on the eastern Ukrainian protesters, as US investigative journalists stressed at the time. In the following eight years, the Kiev regime ruthlessly shelled Donbass, killing peaceful civilians including elderly, women and children under the false premise that it was fighting against the "Russian military."Timing of Gordon's ArticleThe timing of Gordon's latest peace deserves special attention. He released his new Wuhan lab article exactly at the time when China made public its peace proposals for Ukraine. It appears that the Ukraine peace deal does not fit the plans of the Biden administration, the US military and defense contractors, who are said to have capitalized enormously on Washington's proxy war in the Eastern European state. In addition, Washington is still trying to force China into severing its strategic partnership with Russia in a failed bid to isolate Moscow.What's more, the attempts to peddle the Wuhan origins of COVID coincide with a series of stories about Team Biden's role in the Nord Stream sabotage by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh, who is allegedly not done with his reporting yet. The Russian Defense Ministry's investigation into the Pentagon's experiments with deadly viruses and dangerous pathogens in Ukraine and post-Soviet space is also underway. Indeed, it appears that Washington has a lot to answer.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230209/whos-jake-sullivan-the-man-who-reportedly-assembled-dream-team-to-destroy-nord-stream-1107273707.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20210827/ex-un-expert-if-us-wants-to-conduct-covid-probe-in-china-it-should-open-its-biolabs-to-inspectors-1083731391.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230202/peaceful-research-or-biowarfare-us-govt-knows-ukraine-pathogens-are-weapons-observers-say-1106932301.html

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A fifth grader snuck a loaded gun inside Prescott Elementary School and used it to threaten another student Friday, Lincoln Public Schools officials said in recounting the events of an unsettling end to a week of classes.

Staff learned just after the noon hour Friday that a fifth grade student flashed a handgun in a backpack at another fifth grader and made a threatening statement while the two were in a hallway, school district officials said.

The student who was reportedly threatened told a teacher, who alerted administrators at the school near 20th and South streets. Staff located the backpack hanging from a coat rack in the hallway and took it to the school office. Police responded and found a loaded handgun inside the backpack, the district said.

The Lincoln Police Department provided no details of its response or investigation by 8 p.m. Friday.

It's unclear when exactly the threat was made or how much time transpired until staff was notified.

LPS said it did not at any point resort to a set of protocols used when a security threat arises, such as putting the building into lockdown. Classes continued as police conducted their investigation.

This could have had a very different result, no question about it, Superintendent Paul Gausman said after the school day, praising the response by staff and law enforcement and the student for reporting the threat. Gausman met with Prescott staff at the school before holding a late-afternoon news conference.

The ages and genders of the students involved were not released, and the exact nature of the threat and what may have led up to it was not made known. Officials, however, said they do not believe that the gun was pointed directly at the student nor were other students or staff threatened.

Only a couple of minutes passed from when the threat was reported to when the gun was secured, but a specific timeline was not made available Friday. Gausman said only that staff became aware of the threat shortly after the noon hour, adding that officials didn't have a specific time on when the threat was made.

Classes at Prescott begin at 9 a.m.

I know that as soon as our team was made aware that there was a threat, it was within a minute or two that everything was secured and safe, Gausman said. Truthfully, were able to have this specific conversation today because we have plans in place, protocol(s) that are there, and they worked today.

The school district said police interviewed the students involved and their parents, and in a news release, said the student who brought the firearm will be facing legal consequences.

Lincoln Police did not respond Friday afternoon to questions about potential legal consequences. Its also unclear when officers were first called to the school and how many officers ultimately arrived.

It's also unknown if the parents of the student who brought the gun to school will face any legal consequences.

The police are doing the work they need to do with that, Gausman said.

Steve Hutchinson, whose granddaughter is a first grader at Prescott, said his son called him as he was picking up his daughter to tell him what happened. The incident, Hutchinson said, clearly rattled his son and daughter-in-law.

This seems like something in national news, not local news, he told the Journal Star. It really brings it right into your back yard.

He said the first thing that came to his mind was how a fifth grader got their hands on the weapon, pointing to an incident last month in Virginia where a 6-year-old shot and wounded his first grade teacher.

If a fifth grader could get access to a loaded weapon, it sounds like that gun wasnt secured, Hutchinson said.

LPS deployed psychologists and counselors into fifth grade classrooms at Prescott. Counselors will also be available next week.

"If you feel that your child will need extra support at school next week in processing what happened, please contact me and we will connect them with a caring adult at school," Principal JJ Wilkins said in a message to families.

Prescott has just more than 500 students. Its a diverse school, Hutchinson said, that draws students from across the Near South neighborhood and surrounding area.

Gausman said LPS will work with police to review the incident and learn what security changes  if any  could be considered. He could not point to any specific changes Friday and said that he didnt know how the incident might impact the district's school resource officer program.

Currently, there are six school resource officers that work in the districts 12 middle schools. An officer has been assigned to each LPS high school for decades.

Gausman said to a degree school resource officers serve elementary schools that are near the buildings where they are assigned, but they are not based in elementary buildings.

All staff members are trained on how to respond if theres a weapon in a school, Gausman said. He also pointed to the districts anonymous reporting system, Safe to Say, which allows people to alert authorities of a security concern. Earlier this week, an anonymous report allowed staff at Lincoln Southwest High School to intercept a student who brought a BB gun to school.

But the Prescott incident was a stark reminder of the more serious threats that can arise.

As many situations as I have been through, even in my nearly 20 years as a superintendent of schools, every situation is unique.  But in this particular case, the staff followed their training, and that training put everybody in that building in a safe position immediately, Gausman said. This is a day that ended in a much better situation than it could have.

Top Journal Star photos for February 2023
Grand Canyon University to Open a 17,000-Square-Foot Seminary in Fall 2023

University will also offer half-off tuition and housing for students in the Master of Divinity program

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Grand Canyon University

Feb. 27, 2023

PHOENIX, Feb. 27, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- Grand Canyon University will open a physical location for its Grand Canyon Theological Seminary, providing those students an opportunity to live on campus and incentives to receive more than half-off tuition as well as half-off housing. The campus-based Seminary will initially offer the Master of Divinity program, while also serving as an area where local pastors can connect with students and faculty, network, attend events and complete sermon preparation.

GCTS was started in 2016 and has operated largely online with in-person residencies. Seminary students will now have the option to take their classes in-person, during the day or early evening to fit their schedule. The new space, located at 27th Avenue and Camelback Road, will feature large classrooms, meeting spaces and a 4,000-square-foot, extensive theological library.

"Arizona is going to experience massive population growth in the next 10 years," said GCU President Brian Mueller. "While the University is building out programs across its nine colleges to help supply the workforce that will be needed, we also want to provide the next generation of pastors who will be in leadership positions to serve that growing population. This state-of-the-art facility for Grand Canyon Theological Seminary will give students an opportunity to experience in-person instruction from our world-class faculty amidst a campus environment that has become renowned for its servant leadership in the Phoenix community."

Students who enroll in the in-person Master of Divinity program for the Fall of 2023 will receive over half-off tuition for the duration of their program, bringing the cost down to $300 per credit hour. In addition to reduced tuition, GCU is offering half-off on-campus housing for students who qualify.

The 17,000-square-foot space will not only serve as a classroom environment for students but also a space for local pastors to come together, work on sermons and utilize the library.

"We are deeply grateful for the blessing of space and resources that will enrich the lives and ministries of current and future pastors," said Dr. Jason Hiles, Dean of GCU's College of Theology and GCTS. "We believe that the seminary will become something like a relational incubator where pastors, students and faculty can connect, dialogue and encourage one another. Given the incredible collection of print and online library resources, we will open our doors to the church community in a way that we believe will also bless congregations in the West Valley and across the Greater Phoenix area. Churches in the community may also find several opportunities to develop relationships with some incredible young men and women who are looking for a church where they can gain experience and refine their God-given abilities."

The Master of Divinity program at GCU is a three-year, 82-credit rigorous program of ministry training and biblical and theological study to lay the framework for a future career in ministry. Those interested can visit https://www.gcu.edu/degree-programs/master-divinity for more information.

About Grand Canyon University: Grand Canyon University was founded in 1949 and is Arizona's premier private Christian university. GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers 312 academic programs, emphases and certificates for both traditional undergraduate students and working professionals. The University's curriculum emphasizes interaction with classmates, both in-person and online, and individual attention from instructors while fusing academic rigor with Christian values to help students find their purpose and become skilled, caring professionals. For more information, visit gcu.edu.

SOURCE Grand Canyon University

CONTACT: Bob Romantic, 602-639-7611, bob.romantic@gcu.edu
The hours that first responders dedicate to training and their service to the community was on display last Saturday evening as Chilhowie Fire & EMS presented its annual awards and celebrated achievements made during 2022.

Firefighter

Attendance RibbonAmong those honored was Lt. Jeannie Haynes, who was presented with her 12th Firefighter Attendance Ribbon.

The ribbon is given annually to the volunteer who responds to the most calls during a year. This award represents a significant commitment of time to the department and the community, presenters said.

In 2022, Haynes answered 284 calls.

Since 2007, she has responded to 4,922 calls. Award presenters noted that shes answered even more since the award tally was compiled.

Charles W. Brother Smith Ribbon & the Dan W. Jackson Service AwardThe Charles W. Brother Smith Ribbon is awarded to members who respond and operate at an active Urban Search & Rescue incident, which can include technical rescues from heights, trenches or confined spaces. Urban Search & Rescue can also include natural disasters such as a tornado that leaves someone trapped in debris or rising flood waters that trap people.

In 2022, Chilhowie Fire & EMS responded to one call that was designated such a search & rescue. On Oct. 10, 2022, the department was asked to respond to Nebo Mountain Road to help with the search for a missing person injured in an ATV accident.

Assistant Chief Brandon Moore responded, taking the agencys Stokes Wheel  the only one in Smyth County.

A Stokes Wheel is a lightweight, all-terrain wheel that can be attached to rescue litters so that patients can be more easily transported from a scene rather than having to be carried.

Moore remembered that Med-Flight was searching for the missing man by air and when he was spotted Moore and two members of the Atkins Fire Department were the closest responders.

Saturday, Moore received the Smith Ribbon and the Dan W. Jackson Service Award.

Jackson, a retired chief engineer, was one of the departments longest serving members. The ribbon is presented to members who reach the 20-year service milestone.

J.E. Morphew AwardThe J.E. Morphew Award, named after Captain Earl Morphew, is given to a member when they complete 200 or more creditable training hours each year. Presenters noted that Earl was known throughout Virginia as a firefighter who loved to train. He pushed others to train and be better.

For 2022, Chilhowie Fire & EMS presented the award to three individuals.

Firefighter/EMT-Advanced Hannah Hayes received the award for the first time with 214.75 hours of training.

Firefighter/Paramedic Logan Ashlin received the recognition for the third time, achieving 241.5 hours of training.

Firefighter/EMT Cody Ridge was awarded his second award with 363.50 hours.

Educational

Achievement RibbonsEducational Achievement Ribbons are given to members when they complete specified training requirements in a given field. Presented noted, Most require a significant investment in classroom time as well as practical evolutions. Many require advanced classes lasting several months.

The department currently awards Educational Achievement Ribbons in the fields of: Fire Service, EMS Service, Rescue Service, Instructor, Officer, Fire Prevention, Fire Investigation, Fire Inspector and Hazardous Materials.

For 2022, six members earned these ribbons.

Captain Randy Sturgill earned the Educational Achievement Ribbon for Fire Inspector, while Firefighter Logan Ashlin qualified for the EMS Service EAR (EMT-Critical Care Paramedic).

Chilhowie Senior Police Officer Gage Prater and firefighters Cody Ridge, Hannah Hayes, and Jason Arnold earned the Rescue Service EAR training to be Swiftwater Rescue Technicians. Ridge also qualified for the Fire Inspector EAR. Hayes also earned the ribbon for EMS Service (EMT-Advanced). Arnold earned six additional education ribbons in the areas of Fire Service, EMS Service (EMT-Paramedic), Hazardous Materials (Technician), Instructor, Fire Officer, and Virginia Fire Officer Academy.

New MembersThe department also recognized two new members who joined Chilhowie Fire & EMS during 2022: Firefighter/Paramedic Jason Arnold and Firefighter Thomas Dickerson.

Moore described 2022 as successful year for the agency. He especially cited the addition of the classroom building at the training center. He noted that the first EMT class is under way there.

Moore celebrated the Town of Chilhowie and Smyth Countys help to make the training facility a reality. He called it very much needed and said it will open up doors for the community and region.

Moore went on to express pride in the amount of work undertaken and completed by the departments members and extended his gratitude to their families for the support they provide. We wouldnt be able to provide the services we do without your sacrifice  so thank you.
FOREST  A movie night Saturday at Jefferson Forest High School stirred up excitement from some and concern from others.

The After School Satan Club sold more than 125 tickets to a showing of the 1992 animated feature FernGully: The Last Rainforest in the high schools auditorium. Admission cost $10 for adults and was free for children.

June Everett  campaign director for the After School Satan Club and ordained minister of the Satanic Temple, a national organization  said the group only comes into a community when theres a balance needed because of another religious event.

Everett said in a previous interview that most members of the Temple are atheists, and the organization uses the figure of Satan to promote rational, scientific viewpoints.

Saturdays movie screening was followed by a discussion of how it relates to some of the tenets of The Satanic Temple, according to Everett.

Everett said the Bedford County school district is in no way affiliated with the group but is just legally abiding by constitutional law.

We were asked to bring in an alternative event to the other religious organizations that were renting the facilities through the school district, she said.

The JF high school auditorium is rented out to third-party, non-school-sponsored organizations or individuals when the facility is not needed for school use. A community congregation holds weekly church services there.

We fight against the privileging of one religion over the others, so were there to make sure that its not just one religion thats always represented, Everett said. We do fight for the separation of church and state by making government entities think twice before bringing religion into a public forum.

When the movie night was announced in November, the county school system issued a statement saying it understood community concerns but noted it cannot discriminate against a particular religious group when it comes to community use of school facilities.

The school division noted there is no After School Satan Club operating within Bedford County. Everett has previously said only two clubs, in Ohio and Illinois, are active in the U.S., and ones in California and Ohio recently were approved to launch.

On Saturday, around 50 people showed up on the sidewalk of JF to sing worship songs and pray while cars parked for the event and attendees walked into the auditorium. The Bedford County Sheriffs Office was on site to ensure no one without a movie ticket was allowed in the auditorium.

Jason Binder, pastor of Patriot Church  Greater Lynchburg located in Bedford County, said members of the church were not there to protest but instead to witness and praise their Lord.

You know, when I think of a protest, I think of people in the streets with signs where theyre very angry, yelling, and thats totally not what this is about, he said.

He said when the church heard about the Satanic Temple hosting a movie at JF that night, members wanted to push back against the prevalence of evil in the community as well as the nation.

As the church we really need to push back against evil but not against the people but more in a spiritual sense because were in a spiritual battle, he said. Our battle is not against flesh and blood as the Bible says. So our response is going to be in the spiritual.

He said the hope was to have a dialogue with some of the people attending the event.

Because we care about these people and the only way to heaven is through Jesus Christ and His sacrifice and repentance. So, we want to make sure that every person alive, before they pass away, is aware of that and there is a way of escape from hell, Binder said.

Rose Bastet, event facilitator and Satanic Temple member, traveled from Norfolk and said although Virginia does not have an official congregation yet, she will be the head of it when it does.

We are non-theistic, said Bastet, who said she has been an atheist her entire adult life. We have a core set of beliefs. There the seven tenets, which ultimately boil down to just being a good person. Our first one is literally about having compassion for all living creatures within reason. Another one is to respect bodily autonomy and another one is fighting for justice.

She said she understands the groups name is shocking and some people dont fully understand what the group is about.

But I think if people just take five minutes to research what it is, I think they would feel a lot better about it, she said.

Lynchburg resident Bri Malloy attended the movie because she hopes the Satanic Temple group could be impactful in the area. She said its a sensitive subject in this area due to the groups imagery but added they arent the enemy, just another organization that gives back to the community and asks for nothing in return.

Artistic imagery can be hard to look past, she said. I personally have a hard time explaining the crucifixion to young imaginations, yet people wear it around their necks and worship at its feet. This group doesnt worship Satan but uses imagery to make a statement. Freedom of religion and freedom from religion is just that, isnt just for one protected class.

Lynchburg resident Alex Moore said she attended the event because she supports the separation of church and state as well as freedom of religion.

Living in Lynchburg, there is a ton of religious persecution against non-Christians, she said. I am looking forward to attending so the other people in the religious minority dont feel alone and feel safe congregating.

David Beauregard, pastor of the Root of David, a ministry in the town of Bedford, said there is good and evil and right and wrong in the world.

A scripture comes to me, Do not remove the ancient boundary stone that your fathers have set, and thats kind of like saying, remember where you came from and from the goodness that are in people, he said. We are here to pray and to minister to people. Were not here to protest. Were here to help if people want to ask questions or if they need a drink of water. We just want to be here to help people and to pray for people and hopefully make the Lord known through our actions more than our words.

Everett, the clubs campaign director, said the group wants to have the same rights as everyone else to occupy a public space and hold events.

At the end of the day, I think what is scarier than Satan is a government that gets to pick and choose what religions have access to taxpayer-funded facilities and which ones dont, she said. So as much as they dont like the word and as much as they dont like us and they dont like the name, at the end of the day, were protecting everybodys ability to worship or not worship as they please.
Grant Hadler, the owner of the Longview restaurant Grants at the Monticello Hotel, died a week after being found unconscious in a residential Kelso neighborhood.

Kelso police are asking people with additional information about the event to come forward.

Police say Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue personnel responded around 2:30 a.m. Feb. 19 to the 1500 block of Ross Avenue in Kelso to triage what Kelso police described as an injured fall patient.

Hadler, 56, was found unconscious and transported initially to St. John Medical Center but was later sent to Southwest Washington Medical Center in Vancouver, where he died from his injuries Sunday, Kelso police report.

Police say the cause and manner of Hadlers death have not been determined, and are asking people to call Detective Craig Christianson at 360-423-1270 to provide additional information.

We are continuing to investigate because we have an obligation and responsibility to determine whether or not his death was caused by criminal conduct, said Kelso Capt. Rich Fletcher.

Sad day for the community

Sherry Hadler, of Longview, was married to Grant Hadler for 28 years and co-owned the restaurant that opened in 2019.

Sherry said it was Grants lifelong dream to become a restauranteur.

He worked so hard for everyone else that we decided wed work that hard for ourselves, she said.

She described her husband as one in [a] million, and said through her entire marriage, Grant made her literally laugh every day.

Our hearts are literally broken, she added.

Sherry said the response from the community since his passing has been overwhelming.

We are so proud, as a family, of Grant and how he has affected so many people in the community and throughout his and our entire lives, she said.

Sherry said there will be a celebration of life at Grants ballroom, but the date has not been set.

Chad Wilson of Kalama said hes known Grant for a decade and has performed at the ballroom, as well as the restaurant, on occasions. Wilson called Grant a salt-of-the-earth-kinda guy and will remember Grants humor most of all.

Gleeann Kamp, of Longview, said she knew Grant for several years, ever since he began his career in Longview.

Kamp recalls the last time she saw him on Valentines Day, and described his death as a sad, sad, sad day for the community.

Grants son, Nic Hadler, said he aims to be like his father.

He really was the most selfless person I know, and Im sure anyone he has crossed paths with would say the same, he said. He had a unique sense of humor that could crack a smile on anyones face, at any given time. Overall, just a great man that I truly hope to resemble one day.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

'Without telcos there is no digital future,' said Telefonica boss Jose Maria Alvarez-Pallete.

The big beasts of the telecom industry kicked off their most important annual get-together in Barcelona on Monday, promising to lead a "tsunami of innovation" as they try to shrug off a major slump across the technology sector.

Some 80,000 delegates are expected at the four-day Mobile World Congress (MWC), which is back to near full strength following years of pandemic-related disruption.

Industrial titans like Huawei, Nokia and Samsung are set to showcase their latest innovations, flanked by smartphone makers like Oppo and Xiaomi and network operators like Orange, Verizon and China Mobile.

"We are at the doors of a new change of era driven by the intersection of Telco, Computing, Artificial Intelligence and Web3," said Jose Maria Alvarez-Pallete, boss of Spanish operator Telefonica and current chairman of industry body GSMA, which organises the Barcelona event.

He promised that the telecoms industry would be at the forefront of a "tsunami of innovation", adding: "Without telcos there is no digital future."

But many of the firms are more concerned with finding a path back to profit as the global economy stutters and technology firms slash thousands of jobs.

In the first clear sign that the ills of the wider tech sector are reaching telecoms, equipment maker Ericsson announced 8,500 layoffs last week.

Graphic showing sales of smartphones per year, from 2013 to 2022.

Overall sales of smartphones last year slumped by 11.3 percent compared with 2021, according to the IDC consultancy.

Research firm Gartner reckons sales of smartphones, tablets and computers will fall again by four percent this year.

And network operators are still struggling to make 5G pay, years after they spent billions in government auctions for the right to use the bandwidth.

'Unsustainable situation'

A hugely popular idea for many at the show is to get the owners of bandwidth-hungry platforms like YouTube, Netflix and Facebook to pay network operators a "fair share".

The issue dominated the first day of the MWC, with Christel Heydemann, boss of French operator Orange, making a direct plea for a "European framework" to fix the "unsustainable situation".

She argued that the five largest userswhich she did not identifyaccounted for 55 percent of daily traffic on European networks, costing telecoms firms 15 billion euros ($16 billion) a year.

Cool new gadgets are still a vital part of the experience at the Mobile World Congress.

Heydemann welcomed a public consultation launched by EU commissioner Thierry Breton last week, who appeared to give his support to the idea of compensation.

But Breton spent the day at MWC trying to calm the controversy, arguing in a speech that it was not a "binary choice" between telecoms and big tech, a point he later reiterated to the media.

"It is not about whether one vested interest should prevail over another," he told reporters. "It is about achieving the giant leap for connectivity ahead of us."

Breton's Twitter feed later confirmed that he had spent time with Netflix boss Greg Peters, whose firm would stand to lose out from the fair share proposal.

Huawei centre stage

The organisers are trumpeting the return of Chinese delegates as a vital boon to the event.

Chinese firms heavily sponsor the MWC, and Huawei is once again getting pride of place, this time hosting the biggest dedicated pavilion in the event's decades-long history.

King Felipe VI of Spain was on hand to open the event.

The Chinese tech giant was the second-biggest smartphone maker in the world in 2020 but retreated after US regulators accused it of being controlled by Beijing.

The firm is now under pressure in Europe, where Breton and other commissioners are pushing for its equipment to be removed from 5G network infrastructure.

Huawei boss Eric Xu said before the event he would use the MWC to display products that would "help carriers meet evolving demand and unleash more opportunities for new growth".

In total, GSMA said the four-day show would host almost 750 operators and manufacturers and 2,000 exhibitors.

 2023 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

The Huawei logo in a shopping mall in Beijing, July 4, 2018. A contingent of Chinese companies led by technology giant Huawei is turning out in force to the worlds biggest wireless trade fair, aiming to show their muscle in the face of Huaweis blacklisting by Western nations concerned about cybersecurity and escalating tensions with the U.S. over TikTok, spy balloons and computer chips. Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File

A contingent of Chinese companies led by technology giant Huawei is turning the world's biggest wireless trade fair into an opportunity to show their muscle in the face of Huawei's blacklisting by Western nations concerned about cybersecurity and escalating tensions with the U.S. over TikTok, spy balloons and computer chips.

After three years of pandemic disruption, they are among tens of thousands in Barcelona for MWC, also known as Mobile World Congress, an annual tech industry expo starting Monday where mobile phone makers show off new devices and telecom industry executives peruse the latest networking gear and software.

Out of 2,000 exhibitors and sponsors, 150 are Chinese companies and Huawei Technologies Ltd. has the biggest presence. The smartphone and network equipment maker expanded its footprint by 50% from last year and is taking up almost an entire vast exhibition hall at Barcelona's Fira convention center, organizers said.

That is striking considering that Huawei has been at the center of a geopolitical battle over global technology supremacy that's left parts of its business crippled by Western sanctions.

The U.S. three years ago successfully pushed European allies like Britain and Sweden to ban or restrict Huawei equipment in their phone networks over fears Beijing could use it for cybersnooping or sabotaging critical communications infrastructureallegations Huawei has denied repeatedly. Japan, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have taken similar action.

Visitors take pictures of Xiaomi 13 mobile phone models at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Brian Chamberlin, executive adviser at Huawei's wireless carrier group, said "the sanctions have had a big impact" but the company is "not going to try to break any of those rules."

"But at the same time, that's not going to slow us down from delivering innovation, innovative solutions," he said at the expo. "We will continue to do business with companies and countries that want our support."

Huawei's supersized presence at the show is a sign of defiance, said John Strand, a Danish telecom industry consultant.

Huawei wants to "give Biden the finger," Strand said of the U.S. president. The company's message, he said, is: "Despite the American sanctions, we are alive and kicking and doing so well."

U.S.-China tech tensions have only grown.

A suspected Chinese spy balloon downed by a U.S. fighter jet sparked acrimony between Beijing and Washington in recent weeks.

A visitor checks a Xiaomi 13 Pro mobile phone model at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

U.S. authorities have banned TikTok from devices issued to government employees over fears the popular Chinese-owned video sharing app is a data privacy risk or could be used to push pro-China narratives.

The U.S. also is seeking to restrict China's access to equipment to make advanced semiconductors, signing up key allies Japan and the Netherlands.

That followed the MWC expo four years ago becoming a battleground between the U.S. and China over Huawei and the security of next generation wireless networks. In a keynote speech, a top Huawei executive trolled the U.S. over its push to get allies to shun the company's gear.

Huawei hasn't gone away, and the dispute continues to simmer. Washington widened sanctions last month with new curbs on exports to Huawei of less advanced tech components.

Still, the company has maintained its status as the world's No. 1 maker of network gear thanks to sales in China and other markets where Washington hasn't been so successful at persuading governments to boycott the company.

A visitor checks a Xiaomi 13 mobile phone model at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Strand, who has been attending MWC for 26 years, said Huawei wants to show the world it's pivoting away from mainly making networking gearthe hidden plumbing such as base stations and antennas connecting the world's mobile devicesand becoming an all-round tech supplier.

The company is reinventing itself by supplying hardware and software for cargo ports, self-driving cars, factories and other industries it hopes are less vulnerable to Washington.

"Since MWC is a global event, they (Huawei) will want to communicate on this and showcase that they are still a key player in the telecom and high-tech industry," said Thomas Husson, a principal analyst at Forrester Research.

The company's presence is so big simply because of "pent-up demand," said Chamberlin of Huawei.

"We have been locked into China for the past three years due to the COVID restrictions. So this is really the first time we've been able to engage with our customers," he said.

The new Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro are displayed at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Huawei also makes smartphones but sales outside China cratered after Google was blocked from providing maps, YouTube and other services that usually come preloaded on Android devices.

"The Huawei consumer brand has collapsed in Europe," Husson said. At MWC, "Huawei may well announce new consumer smartphones and new consumer devices, but the brand has lost momentum and these announcements are primarily for fast-growing markets outside the U.S. and Western Europe."

At Huawei's pavilion, staff showed visitors the latest 5G antennas alongside equipment for older generations of cellular networks that still account for much of the company's business. Optical networking switches and new flexible fiber cable for home networking were displayed inside a VIP area, while smartphones and other consumer devices like earbuds were laid out at the entrance.

Visitors test and take pictures of Xiaomi 13 mobile phone models at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

A Xiaomi 13 LITE is displayed at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Visitors test and take pictures of Xiaomi 13 mobile phone models at the Xiaomi booth before the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

The Vuzix M4000 smart glass is displayed at a ShowStoppers booth ahead the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Xiaomi product marketing manager TJ Walton during the presentation of the new Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro ahead of the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Xiaomi product marketing manager TJ Walton during the presentation of the new Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro ahead of the Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023. The four-day show, also known as Mobile World Congress, kicks off Monday in a vast Barcelona conference center. It's the world's biggest and most influential meeting for the mobile tech industry. Credit: AP Photo/Joan Monfort

Huawei is just part of the larger Chinese delegation, whose turnout is getting a boost from China lifting all COVID-19 travel restrictions. ZTE, another Chinese tech company that had been sanctioned by the U.S., plans product launches at MWC.

Chinese mobile phone makers Honor, Oppo and Xiaomi will have a strong presence, said Ben Wood, chief analyst at CCS Insight. Honor was Huawei's budget brand but was sold off in 2020 in hopes of reviving sales by separating it from the sanctions on its corporate parent.

"The removal of COVID restrictions in China has made it possible for these manufacturers to attend the show in force," Wood said. "They are all keen to establish themselves as the 'third alternative' to Apple and Samsung in European markets and see MWC as a pivotal event to do that."

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The fight against human trafficking has a David and Goliath aspect to it. Trafficking rings are a global scourge with an estimated 25 million victims and $150 billion in annual profits. Agencies and NGOs tasked with stopping the traffickers, however, are typically small and under-resourced. Recently, a technological tool has come along to help close this gap: machine learning (ML) algorithms.

Primed with enough relevant data, these algorithms can find hidden clues to how traffickers operate and what they are likely to do in the future. In principle, anti-trafficking agencies can use ML predictions to direct their scant resources to the areas of greatest risk.

Abhishek Ray, an assistant professor in the Information Systems and Operations Management area at the George Mason University School of Business, has added his expertise to this effort. With collaborators Viplove Arora (post-doc researcher at SISSA, Italy), Kayse Maass (of Northeastern University) and Mario Ventresca (of Purdue University), Ray developed a model that reduces the guesswork of implementing ML predictions.

As Ray explains it, the model supplies a "layer on top" for improving outcomes of existing ML solutions. Armed with success and failure rates (i.e., true/false negatives and positive trafficking detections) of an anti-trafficking agency, it looks for scenarios in which the agency could achieve the same number of successes with fewer errors.

In a recently published paper in IISE Transactions, Ray and his co-authors apply their model to two real-life agencies: Global Fishing Watch (GFW), which targets trafficking in the global seafood industry, and Love Justice International (LJI), which monitors transit stations on the India-Nepal border.

The ML solution employed by GFW cross-references a large database of fishing vessel activity, which is obtained via satellite, with law enforcement data on human trafficking. The resulting predictions indicate the vessel types, behaviors, and features that the agency should watch most closely.

But criminals sometimes learn faster than machines. "If someone is caught on a long trawler, and they know they can get caught, they will never go on the long trawler again," Ray explains. Traffickers' evolving tactics may not be fully captured in vast, wide-ranging data-sets, such as the ones derived from satellite vessel surveillance. Changes in agency success rates, on the other hand, are closer to the action and may pick up the latest stages of this cat-and-mouse game.

Looking back over agency data from 2012-2018, the researchers found that had their model been used alongside ML, GFW would likely have discovered more instances of trafficking while committing far fewer false negatives and false positives. In addition, monitoring recommendations shifted considerably over the six years. For example, under certain conditions, drifting longline vessels were the most likely suspects for the years 2012-2017. In 2018, however, squid jiggers replaced them and were singled out as among the most suspicious. These shuffling priorities may reflect the traffickers' changing their vessel of choice to evade detection.

In the case of Love Justice International, Ray's model could serve as a workaround for constraints such as a shortage of well-trained staff. LJI could input a target outcome into the algorithm, such as a baseline number of positive trafficker IDs, and receive recommendations for how to make the best use of strained resources.

For Ray, the fight against human trafficking is personal. As a child growing up in Kolkata, India, he was cared for by a household employee whoas his parents later found outhad been trafficked when she herself was a child. "I learned this when I was doing my Ph.D. in the U.S.," he says. "It's like having a part of your childhood taken away. You came into contact with something criminal and had no understanding."

"If I could make a contribution towards solving the problem, I'd consider it sort of giving back what I had taken unknowingly."

To take full advantage of Ray's "layer on top" ML solution, anti-trafficking agencies would need to create effective systems for collecting and centralizing data. Depending on the context, this might present challenges ranging from resource limitations to a political climate where trafficking data could be used against the already-victimized. "The maximum value from our framework is when it's acting in real time with real-time data," Ray says.

More information: Abhishek Ray et al, Optimal Resource Allocation to Minimize Errors When Detecting Human Trafficking, IISE Transactions (2023). DOI: 10.1080/24725854.2023.2177364
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

As an artificial intelligence researcher, Cynthia Rudin has watched the recent, explosive growth of the technology with a keen, concerned eye.

She sees both vast potential and overwhelming risk in the current state of the AI industry, a wild west of unchecked experimentation, investment and expansion. The recent rise of ChatGPT, an AI-based tool that lets users engage with and order up written products from a computer algorithm has shone new light on the technology, and Rudin says lawmakers need to get a handle on it alland fast.

Rudin is the Earl D. McLean, Jr. Professor of Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Statistical Science, Mathematics, and Biostatistics & Bioinformatics at Duke University, where she runs the Interpretable Machine Learning Lab. She spoke with Duke Today recently about her many concerns related to the growth and power of artificial intelligence and the industries developing tools with it.

Here are excerpts from the interview:

You feel artificial intelligence technology is out of control right now. Why?

AI technology right now is like a runaway train and we are trying to chase it on foot. I feel like that because the technology is increasing at a very fast rate. It's amazing what it can do now compared to even a year or two ago.

Misinformation can be generated very, very quickly. Also, recommender systems (that push content to people) in directions we don't want them to be. And I feel the people haven't yet had a chance to speak up about this. It's really technology companies imposing it on us rather than the people getting a chance to decide themselves what they want. Duke computer scientist Cynthia Rudin, an artificial intelligence scholar, has concerns about how fast AI technology is moving, with few guardrails in place to regulate it.

Are there any incentives for tech companies to act ethically in regards to AI?

They're incentivized to make profits, and if they're monopolies they're not really incentivized to compete with other companies in terms of ethics or other things that people want. The problem is when they say things like "we want to democratize AI" it's really hard to believe that when they're making billions and billions of dollars. So it would be better if these companies weren't monopolies and people had a choice of how they wanted this technology to be used.

Why is it so important, in your view, for the federal government to regulate tech companies?

Government should definitely step in and regulate AI. It's not like they didn't have enough warning. Technology has been building for years. The same technology that built ChatGPT has been used to build chatbots in the past that are actually pretty good. Not as good as ChatGPT, but pretty good. So we've had plenty of warning. Recommender systems for content have been used for many years now and we have yet to place any kind of regulations on them. Part of the reason is the government doesn't yet have any kind of mechanism to regulate AI. There's no (federal) commission on AI. There's commissions on many other things, but not AI.

How might this AI revolution effect people the most in their daily lives? What should they look out for?

AI affects people, ordinary people, every day of their lives. When you go on the internet to any website, the advertisements on that website are served up just for you. Every time you are on YouTube looking at content, the recommender systems recommending the next thing you watch are based on your data. When you're reading Twitter, the content that's given to you, and in what order it's given to you, is designed by an algorithm. All of these things are AI algorithms that are essentially unregulated. So ordinary people interact with AI all the time.

Do people get any real say in how this technology is imposed on them?

Generally, no. You don't really get a way to tweak the algorithm to feed you content you want. If you know you're happier when your algorithm is tuned a certain way, there's not really a way for you to change it. It would be nice if you had a variety of companies to choose from for a lot of these recommender systems of different kinds. Unfortunately, there's not too many companies out there so you don't really have much of a choice.

What is the worst-case scenario you can envision if there is no regulation?

Misinformation is not innocent. It does real damage to people on a personal level. It's been the cause of wars in the past. Think of World War II, think of Vietnam. What I'm really concerned about is that misinformation is going to lead to a war in the future, and AI is going to be at least partly to blame.

Many of these companies simply claim they're "democratizing" artificial intelligence with these new tools.

One thing I'm concerned about is you've got these companies that are creating these tools, and they're very excited about the release of these tools to people. And certainly the tools can be useful. But, you know, I think if they were the victims of AI-based bullying, or had some images of them that were fake, that were generated online that they didn't want, or if they were about to be the victim of an AI-propelled misinformation massacre, they might feel differently.

Where does content moderation fit into all of this?

There's a lot of very dangerous content and a lot dangerous misinformation that's out there that has cost many people their lives. I'm specifically talking about misinformation around the Rohingya massacres, around the January 6, 2021 insurrection, vaccine misinformation. While it's important we have free speech, it's also important that content is moderated and that it's not circulated. So even if people say things we don't agree with, we don't need to circulate those things using algorithms. If misinformation from trolls from different countries try to impact politics or having some kind of social impact, those trolls can take over our algorithms and plant misinformation.

We really don't want that to happen. Child abuse content (for example)we need to be able to filter that off of the Internet.
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Emissions due to aggregate T&D losses by NERC Region, a. CO2eq emissions, b. NOx emissions, c. SOx emissions, d. PM2.5 emissions. Credit: Energy (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2023.126735

Investment in electrical transmission and distribution (T&D) systems could significantly reduce air pollution, according to a study led Lauren Janicke, an undergraduate in civil and environmental engineering (CEE), and Destenie Nock, assistant professor of CEE and engineering and public policy.

Publishing their work in the journal Energy, the researchers measured the air pollution generated through inefficiencies in T&D networks, examined opportunities for reducing emissions through regulation at the multinational and subnational scales, and compared the cost of these potential emissions reductions to the cost of investment in renewable energy.

Janicke, Nock and their co-authors noted that, "Globally, 10.2 million premature annual deaths can be attributed to fossil fuel generation and associated PM 2.5 emissions (fine inhalable particles less than 2.5 millionths of a meter in size), a large part of which comes from the electricity sector."

When there are inefficiencies in the electrical system, more energy must be produced to compensate, resulting in excess emissions from what is termed "compensatory generation." There are well-explored opportunities for reducing emissions from the way electricity is consumed and generated; however, comparatively little research exists on the potential for reducing air pollution incurred in the delivery of electricity from the generator to the consumer.

By comparing the electricity generated in a given country to the electricity delivered to end users, Janicke and Nock quantified the percentage of emissions resulting from compensatory generation in 142 countries. They found great variation in these, ranging from as low 2% of total generation lost in Singapore, to as high as 60% of total generation in Haiti, and reaching 5% in the U.S. This has an especially strong impact on air pollution for countries reliant on carbon-intensive energy sources. On a global scale, around 2100 Terawatt hours of compensatory generation is required due to these T&D losses.

In analyzing several scenarios, the team found that improving T&D efficiency between 5% and 33% would decrease global median emissions by as much as 40%. The efficacy of emissions reductions within different scenarios varies by pollutant type, and the type of generation prevalent, particularly coal or oil, also correlates with opportunities for emission reductions due to compensatory generation.

In the U.S. there are multiple subnational regulatory bodies, the most prominent being the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which works under federal oversight to develop and enforce reliability rules for bulk power electric transmission systems. The different regions within NERC present different energy profiles, meaning different opportunities for reducing T&D losses.

Overall, the high ambition scenario for regulation (5% cap on losses) could cut compensatory generation on average by about 60%about 3% of total U.S. power generation. The source from which states generate their energy again influences their potential for reductions in emissions through increased T&D efficiency. State policy also plays a major role, with states like North Dakota (heavily coal-dependent) and Texas (natural-gas dependent) having opportunities at the state level that could significantly decrease emissions from compensatory generation.

"It is important to recognize that while improving T&D losses will not completely compensate for relying on fossil fuels, it can reduce current emissions as we are transitioning, and reduce the total amount of renewable generation we will need to build," said Nock.

Regarding T&D losses themselves, they distinguished between technical losses, resulting from infrastructure inefficiencies, and nontechnical losses, resulting from theft or error. Janicke and Nock noted that technical losses could be eliminated by replacing older T&D infrastructure with newer, high-voltage lines. Likewise, nontechnical losses could best be cut down by reducing electricity theft, deploying smart meters, and enforcing greater accountability in bill payment.

In a cost comparison per ton of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) abated, they found that smart meters in the U.S. have a median abatement cost of $1,100 per ton of CO 2 , compared to $700 per ton for wind turbines, and $1,280 per ton for solar plants. However, cost estimates for mass deployment of smart meters still need to be performed, and renewable energy is dependent on weather conditions.

Janicke and Nock estimate that in a moderate ambition scenario for the U.S. with a cap of 33% current T&D losses, wind turbines would be most cost-effective; however, in the high ambition scenario capped at 5%, smart meters become more cost-effective. Smart meters may also have a greater impact in other regions of the world where nontechnical losses are higher, in combination with automated billing.

"We note that countries are using a combination of approaches (smart meters, wind and solar deployment) as part of their decarbonization strategies," the team concluded. "Smart meters might be cheaper in some cases, and the right combination of smart meters, wind, and solar should be based on spatially resolved analysis. While renewable energy has other benefits beyond reducing carbon emissions, even in a high renewable future, smart meters will be beneficial because they will reduce the electricity demand, leading to fewer investment needs in generation capacity."

More information: Lauren Janicke et al, Air pollution co-benefits from strengthening electric transmission and distribution systems, Energy (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2023.126735
Bringing Together Work, Life -- And Faith: 90-Year-Old Author and Christian Leader Shares Lessons on Reclaiming Work-Life Balance

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Wiltshire Media PR

Feb. 27, 2023

BURLINGTON, ONTARIO, CANADA, Feb. 27, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- The LifeWork Project is proud to announce the release of their latest book, A Christian Guide to Going Beyond in Life & Work. This book is a valuable resource for Christians looking to deepen their faith and achieve success in their personal and professional lives.

"For many years, I met people who truly disliked their jobs and were deeply unhappy with where they were in life and they just didn't know how to get out of the rut they were in," says author Joe Schuringa. "The worst part for me was watching so many Christians who were afraid to stand up for their faith in the workplace."

Schuringa draws on his over 65 years of experience in the workplace as a successful entrepreneur and Christian leader. "I wrote this book to help the Christian stand tall for Christ, and to experience job satisfaction so they too can say, 'Thank God for Monday morning!'"

In A Christian Guide to Going Beyond in Life & Work, Schuringa provides readers with practical advice on how to achieve success while staying true to their faith. The book covers topics such as finding purpose, building relationships, achieving goals, and overcoming obstacles.

The book also integrates Augmented Reality into the reader's experience to enhance the content and offer a more comprehensive experience of the text, the author and Lifework's overall messaging.

A Christian Guide to Going Beyond in Life & Work is available globally on Amazon with additional tools, including a Group Study Guide, Bible Plans and the LifeWork Map for setting God-honoring goals, available on www.lifeworkproject.org.

About The Author: Joe Schuringa, 90, is a successful entrepreneur, author, and Christian leader. He has founded and led several companies in the automotive after-market. He has also served on the board of directors for several high-profile organizations and is passionate about helping Christians achieve success in their personal and professional lives. Schuringa is currently the co-founder of The Lifework Project, a non-profit organization designed to help Christians pursue bigger and better things in their business, career, daily tasks, relationships and faith-walk.

SOURCE Wiltshire Media PR

CONTACT: Elaine Kapogines, elaine@wiltshiremedia.ca
Southern localities on alert as fresh avian influenza outbreak recorded near border

The National Pasteur Institute in Ho Chi Minh City has issued an urgent telegram requesting 20 southern provinces and cities to strengthen surveillance and prevent avian influenza virus entering after Cambodia recorded two cases of A/H5N1 virus infection.

Influenza A/H5N1 is spread through respiratory droplets, contact with contaminated objects, and use of sick or dead poultry infected with the lethal strain A/H5N1. (Illustrative image)





One of the two cases, an 11-year-old girl, died of the lethal strain, according to the World Health Organisation that is closely monitoring the outbreak in the Cambodian locality.



As the virus was detected in Prey Veng province that borders Vietnam, the Pasteur Institute in its telegram requested that the health departments of 20 southern provinces and cities direct their agencies to closely monitor and detect severe pneumonia cases caused by the H5N1 virus strain, type A, at all medical facilities in their localities.



It asked them to pay special attention to those going to/from the epidemic area, timely take samples and send them to the Pasteur Institute for testing.



International health quarantine units must coordinate with the plant and animal quarantine units to monitor poultry and aquatic products entering Vietnam through border gates and open crossings, said the Pasteur Institute in its telegram.



The Centre for Disease Control of the provinces and cities were asked to coordinate with provincial departments of animal husbandry and veterinary to early detect any possible avian influenza outbreaks in the community and promptly handle them according to regulations.



In Ho Chi Minh City, the municipal Department of Health requested the Ho Chi Minh City Centre for Disease Control to closely monitor people going to/from avian influenza hit areas and coordinate with animal quarantine stations in monitoring poultry and waterfowl entering Vietnam through border gates.



The Department also requested relevant agencies to enhance communication about measures to detect and prevent avian flu at border gates and in the community.



Ho Chi Minh City Hospital for Tropical Diseases was required to ensure personnel, equipment, medical supplies, and medicines to receive, isolate and treat suspected or confirmed cases of influenza A (H5N1) in accordance with regulations.



On hearing about the two avian influenza cases in Cambodia, the Department of Animal Health under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has contacted the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to get information about the situation in Cambodia, but has not received any response.



The MARD has also sent a telegram to localities, especially those in the south, requesting that they strictly control the transportation and trade of live poultry and poultry products.



In particular, in the southern provinces, it is necessary to control and prevent poultry smuggling across the border from Cambodia to Vietnam to prevent influenza A/H5N1 virus from entering the country, said the ministry in its telegram.



Every year, Vietnam still records a number of scattered outbreaks of avian influenza caused by the A/H5N1 virus. Currently, there are only two outbreaks of avian influenza in poultry flocks in Nghe An and Cao Bang provinces that both occurred in less than 21 days. About 5,000 birds in the outbreak hit localities have been culled by veterinarians, and there have been no signs of the virus transmission in the community.



In addition, the Department of Animal Health annually deploys a bird flu monitoring and sampling programme at markets, breeding farms, and poultry slaughterhouses to promptly nip in the bud any possible outbreaks.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 27)  The National Development Company (NDC), the Philippine governments investment arm, said Monday it could focus on investment gaps to complement the proposed Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF).

During a Senate hearing on Monday, NDC General Manager Antonilo Mauricio backed the proposal to establish a sovereign wealth fund, saying the government is on the right track to pursue the investment vehicle.

Mauricio also said the NDC is not threatened by its looming implementation since the group is already here and we take smaller deals.

NDC may focus on investment gaps, including support for MSMEs (micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises), complementary to the Maharlika fund if it does push through, he said.

The NDC official also said it could serve as the primary vehicle for equity financing for small projects of the government, as the Maharlika fund is being eyed to finance big-ticket projects.

He also said NDCs Startup Venture Fund, together with the Department of Trade and Industry, can continue supporting the innovation and startup development ecosystem.

Sen. Nancy Binay, however, questioned the need to put up the MIF when the NDC already exists, adding that the sovereign wealth fund could still face birth pains.

We wholeheartedly agree that we need it We can help set it up so it can hit the ground running, Mauricio said.
EDsmart used data from the Department of Education to see which states' colleges have the highest graduation rates. Three New England states top the list.
A federal judge issued a favorable ruling for Texas abortion funds, indicating they likely cannot be criminally charged for helping people travel out of state to terminate their pregnancies.

U.S. District Judge Robert Pitman temporarily blocked prosecutors in eight counties from pursuing charges against anyone who helps someone get an abortion outside of Texas. But his ruling indicated he believes the laws he has enjoined them from enforcing may not actually be in effect at all.

This lawsuit, filed two months after the overturn of Roe v. Wade, was brought by abortion funds, nonprofit groups that help pay for abortions and related expenses, including out-of-state travel, hotels and child care.

After the overturn of Roe v. Wade, the funds stopped paying for Texans to leave the state, citing their fear of being prosecuted under the states intersecting abortion bans. In the lawsuit, they cited examples of Attorney General Ken Paxton and state lawmakers expressing an intent to bring charges against abortion funds.

But Pitman ruled Friday that Paxton could not enforce Texas abortion bans against anyone who helped pay for an abortion out of state and dismissed him from the suit.

Pitman analyzed Texas three abortions laws: the ban on abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy, commonly known as Senate Bill 8; the so-called trigger law, which went into effect in July; and the pre-Roe statutes, which were in effect before the U.S. Supreme Court deemed them unconstitutional in 1973.

Since SB 8 is enforced through private civil lawsuits, neither Paxton nor local prosecutors play any role in enforcing that statute, Pitman noted.

Paxton and the district attorneys do have the power to enforce the trigger law, which comes with a sentence of up to life in prison and a minimum $100,000 penalty. The law criminalizes anyone who performs an abortion, except to save the life of the pregnant person.

But it cannot be enforced beyond state lines, Pitman found.

The law does not express any intent, much less a clear one, to apply extraterritorially, he wrote. Accordingly, there is no plausible construction of the statute that allows the Attorney General or local prosecutor to penalize out-of-state abortions.

That leaves only the pre-Roe statutes, which come with sentences of two to 10 years in prison for anyone who performs or furnishes the means for an abortion. Pitman found that the laws could potentially be interpreted to criminalize someone in Texas who helped someone pay for an abortion out of state.

In other words, if an abortion takes place outside of Texas, a plausible (albeit unlikely) construction of the statute authorizes prosecution for furnishing the means of that abortion if that furnishing takes place in Texas, Pitman wrote. The pre-Roe laws prohibit furnishing the means within the state, and do not necessarily limit that prohibition to abortions which occur in Texas.

Pitman enjoined the named district attorneys  who represent Travis, Washington, Blanco, Burnell, Llano, San Saba and Caldwell counties  and a county attorney, representing Burleson County, from enforcing the pre-Roe statutes against the abortion funds while the case proceeds.

There is no civil penalty associated with the pre-Roe statutes, so Pitman dismissed Paxton from this line of inquiry  and thus the entire suit.

But in the ruling, Pitman also argued that the pre-Roe statutes have been repealed and therefore cannot be used to prosecute anyone.

In 1973, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Texas abortion laws were unconstitutional, it said that the Texas abortion statutes, as a unit, must fall. The state removed the statutes from the penal code, and in 2004, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit found that they had been repealed by implication.

The state went on to pass myriad other abortion laws that would have been at odds with the pre-Roe bans, were they still in effect.

But in 2021, in the text of both SB 8 and the trigger law, the Legislature affirmed that Texas never repealed, either expressly or by implication, the state statutes enacted before the ruling in Roe v. Wade.

When Roe was overturned last June, Paxton issued guidance indicating the pre-Roe statutes were immediately in effect. He tweeted, Texass pre-Roe statutes criminalizing abortion is 100% good law, and Ill ensure theyre enforceable.

The question went to the Texas Supreme Court, which temporarily allowed the pre-Roe statutes to go into effect, but the case was dismissed before a final ruling.

In Fridays ruling, Pitman rejected the idea that the pre-Roe statutes are still in effect.

Legislative findings are insufficient to revive a law that has been repealed, he wrote. The mere finding that its pre-Roe laws were not repealed is not a statutory amendment and does not render the decision [by the 5th Circuit] clearly wrong.

The temporary injunction indicates that Pitman believes the abortion funds likely will prevail in arguing that they should not be prosecuted under the pre-Roe statutes.

Our clients are very pleased with this order, said Elizabeth Myers, a Dallas attorney representing the abortion funds. Judge Pitman confirmed there can be no liability for funding or supporting abortions outside of Texas under the trigger ban or SB 8  and it makes it clear he thinks pursuing criminal charges by any district attorney or county attorney against this type of behavior is improper.

Paxtons office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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The Hamilton County Sheriffs Office announced Sunday night it is investigating a suspected homicide in Marquette.

Someone found the victim Sunday, the sheriff's office and Hamilton County Attorney's Office said in a release.

The Nebraska State Patrol is assisting on the case and took a suspect into custody.

Authorities did not release additional details as of late Sunday. The names of all involved are being withheld pending notification of the victims family, the Hamilton County offices said.
Jeffrey Adams of Marquette has been arrested and is expected to be charged in connection to the weekend death of his wife, 49-year-old Angela Adams.

The womans body was found in their home, at 502 Carnahan St., after the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office received a 911 call at about 12:45 p.m. Sunday.

The Sheriffs Office requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol.

Investigators learned that Adams had been with her husband, Jeffrey, on Saturday evening, but he was not at the home when authorities arrived to investigate the incident, says a news release.

A short time later, Jeffrey Adams arrived at the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office to turn himself in. He was arrested by Nebraska State Patrol investigators.

Investigators have determined that the incident began with an argument, during which Jeffrey allegedly struck Angela Adams multiple times.

Jeffrey then left the home. Adams, 47, is being held at Hamilton County Jail for second-degree murder. The investigation continues.
No two student teachers are alike and Grand Island Public Schools student teachers Isabelle Short and Hannah DeHart are no exceptions.

Short, who graduated from Millard West, and DeHart, who graduated from York Public School, are among a fleet of 13 student teachers at GIPS this semester.

Short attends the University of Nebraska at Kearney and said starting as substitute teacher in October 2021 led her to GIPS.

Grand Islands Dodge Elementary School was one of several schools where she substituted and worked with fourth graders there.

It quickly became my favorite of seven (schools), despite the drive from Kearney, she said. I loved the staff support  them knowing that I was just a college student coming in to sub.

Dodge made a big impression on her.

I kind of knew that when I student taught I wanted to come to Grand Island, Short said.

DeHart, a York University student, received some of her initial teaching experiences as a paraeducator at her alma mater.

DeHart said while studying at York University (formerly York College) she realized she wanted to expand her educational repertoire.

DeHart is teaching fifth grade at West Lawn Elementary School. After spring break, DeHart, who is a double major in elementary education and special education, will move over to Barr Middle School.

DeHarts teaching supervisor at York University is Adjunct Professor Katy Kurz, who was a teacher at GIPS for 27 years.

After teaching at Starr, Shorts next step is student teaching in Schuyler, a school much smaller than her own high school and Grand Island Public Schools.

Having experiences in larger communities has shaped Shorts teaching goals, she said.

As a long-term goal, I want to work in diverse communities. I want to work with students from all different walks of life, and become the best educator I can in the world were living in, Short said.

Starr Elementary fits the bill. According to the Nebraska Department of Education, school year 2021-2022 more than half of the student body consisted of children of color. That school year English language learners made up 37% of Starrs student body. The percentage of English language learners in peer schools that year averaged 19%.

I have students from all different walks of life in my classroom, Short said. They get to learn from each other, which is so important. Thats not something that you can learn from a textbook.

I also get to learn from them and help support their learning, which is really cool.

DeHart said she also appreciates GIPSs diversity.

After she graduates, DeHart said she has already accepted a job at GIPS teaching fourth or fifth grade, though shes not yet sure which building.

Even though they are still, technically, students themselves, both Short and DeHart realize the incredible responsibility their career choice entails.

Short said she had some jitters  and a bit of self-doubt  when she finally got in front of the classroom.

Im standing up there, she recalled. I dont know what Im doing. Am I teaching them anything? Am I just ruining their education? You obviously want to support the students learning. Its like, this is their learning on the line.

Arguably, teachers are under appreciated, and oft misunderstood. DeHart experienced that in her own school.

I feel like people are getting more aware, but I dont think is like completely there yet, DeHart said. I had people when I was in college, make comments like, Oh, youre just a teacher.

Short said she has noticed, particularly in Grand Island, the appreciation is getting better.

During (parent-teacher) conferences, parents came in and theyre  oh, my gosh!  just holding us on this like pedestal of like, you work with our kids all day, youre doing amazing work.

Politics entering the classroom has affected teaching, which DeHart made note of.

Thats really complicated teachers doing their jobs.

Both Short and DeHart know there are misconceptions and misunderstandings, but each has a positive outlook on the direction teaching is going and the impactful role of a teacher.

Its something DeHart grew up with. Both of her parents are educators, currently teaching at York University.

I owe it to my parents for getting into education, she said. I got to see the impact they made on their students. When it was my turn to decide, what do you want to do when you grow up? I was like, Thats what I want to do.

I love like helping others grow. I like seeing people like learn, its like such a cool moment the student is getting it and youve taught them what they need.

Shorts teaching origins are a little different. She didnt know what she wanted to do for a living, until she had a teaching experience in her French Club at Millard West.

We went to elementary schools (and taught) basic French to elementary kids. Of course, all the kids were there because they got to try French chocolate and cheese, she remembered, laughing. I said, This is so cool. I wish I could do this for the rest of my life.

Then Short realized: Oh my gosh, this is actually something that I could do.

Both student teachers are doing things well, according to their cooperating teachers. Shorts is Tonia Schmall. Short is Schmalls first student teacher.

Its been  I feel very blessed and lucky, Schmall said of having her first student teacher. Schmall has taught at Starr for nine years, she said.

When she received the email saying shed been assigned a student teacher, Schmall said she was excited. I like to share ideas and thoughts. And I love collaborating. Being able to collaborate with somebody has been really fun.

DeHarts current cooperating teacher is Sarah Dramse, who has been teaching 14 years. She did her own student teaching at Kearney Public Schools.

She said being a cooperating teacher is a reflective experience, making one think about their current teaching practices.

Its also supporting a student teacher whos ready to take on their own classroom, Dramse said. Its just fulfilling all around because I change what Im doing to learn from her. She learns from me. It all just goes together.

DeHart said Dramse isnt the only teacher guiding her.

I didnt realize is that you can lean on the other teachers for support as well. Of course, I have my cooperating teacher whos my mentor teacher, but the other third grade teachers have been amazing mentors. Its really great to learn from different teachers who have different teaching styles.

Dramse elaborated on DeHarts experience: We are a collection of people who all have different personalities, different things in common, different lifestyles, and we accept each other and we grow from each other. We learn together, this is not a solo mission. We are together.

Short said of Schmall: Shes making me being very reflective, what could we have done better in that lesson? Im like, Wow, this was not good, Short said.

She said Schmall tells her, Now you can just use those to be better. And it seems like that checking in on me. Theyre just not helping you be a better teacher but a better person to making sure like, youre okay, feeling good and refreshed.

Thats been awesome. Its just another aspect of having a mentor.

Kurz said supervising professors have a standardized system to evaluate their student teachers.

They range from instructional strategies to classroom environment to assessments, Kurz said. We use that as our tool to go through the reflection piece.

Still, Kurz said, the biggest factor in being a great teacher is creating connections with students, which is the backbone to teacher education at York University, she said.

Relations first and foremost, Kurz asserted. If a kid knows that youre not going to work with them, they wont work for you.

Hannah just did a remarkable job with building relationships with her fifth graders  even just by addressing them by their first name, or getting down at their level, and talking with them about their day.

Short and DeHart have both learned making a big difference can come in small packages. For Short, that includes her students at Starr.

I had a few who were really hesitant at first, who made it known that they did not want me to teach. They told me, I dont like when you teach.

Short told them, Thats OK, but you have to deal with it anyway.

Now, theyre like, are you teaching today? she said. Like, are you gonna teach science today? Are you gonna teach math today?

DeHart and Short both said teaching often puts the pressure on, that teachers are expected to know everything.

For example, DeHart said math has tested her. I havent learned this stuff since I was in fifth grade.

She turns her perceived weakness into a teaching moment.

I tell them I didnt like math growing up, I faked it till I made it. It showed when I got to high school, I told them, I had to reteach myself. Thats a good moment for them to be like, be serious about this.

Even though teachers shouldnt be expected to know everything, they need to be prepared for anything, Short indicated  and how one addresses something can make a huge impact.

My first day, my cooperating teacher had run out of the gym during (the back-to-school) assembly, just to grab something.

The principal started making rounds with the microphone, having cooperating teachers introduce their student teachers.

(One) cooperating teacher was talking all about her (student). Then the principal walks over with a microphone: Now, you introduce yourself.

Short said she wanted to wait for her cooperating teacher to return, but Schmall wasnt back yet and Short was on the spot.

I took the microphone, and Im pretty sure I was like shaking the whole time, she said. I saw all these little elementary-schoolers, K-5, just staring at me.

Short quickly realized, They wanted to know who I was. After that, kids I didnt even know said hi. I know the entire community of the school supports each other. That was the coolest moment. I dont even know if I made sense when I was talking in the microphone, but they know my name now.
(CNN)  Warner Bros. Discovery filed a lawsuit against Paramount Friday, claiming the rival media company breached its half-billion-dollar exclusivity contract with HBO Max by airing "South Park" on its own streaming platform, Paramount+.

HBO Max is a unit of Warner Bros. Discovery, which also owns CNN.

Nearly all "South Park" episodes air first on Paramount-owned Comedy Central. In 2019, Paramount and "South Park's" creators together auctioned off streaming rights to the show's first 23 seasons plus three new 10-episode seasons to HBO Max.

Prior to Discovery's 2022 merger with Warner Bros., WarnerMedia, then owned by AT&T, agreed to pay nearly $1.7 million for exclusive streaming rights for each "South Park" episode, the suit alleges. The first episodes of "South Park" season 24 were to be delivered in March 2020. Then came the pandemic, and WarnerMedia was told that the new production of "South Park" would be halted, according to the complaint.

In March 2021, Paramount launched Paramount+, and Warner Bros. Discovery claims Paramount, MTV and South Park Digital Studios together "planned to divert as much of the new "South Park" content as possible to Paramount+ in order to boost that nascent streaming platform."

The company also said it was promised 30 new episodes over three seasons, but has only received 14 episodes to date.

"We believe that Paramount and South Park Digital Studios embarked on a multi-year scheme of unfair trade practices and deception, flagrantly and repeatedly breaching our contract, which clearly gave HBO Max exclusive streaming rights to the existing library and new content from the popular animated comedy South Park," HBO Max said in a statement.

Paramount says these claims are "without merit."

Paramount "continues to adhere to the parties' contract by delivering new South Park episodes to HBO Max, despite the fact that Warner Bros. Discovery has failed and refused to pay license fees that it owes to Paramount for episodes that have already been delivered, and which HBO Max continues to stream," a Paramount Global spokesperson said.

The lawsuit, filed in the New York State Supreme Court, also claims a separate $900 million deal between MTV, a subsidiary of Paramount, and South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, broke the terms of the contract in August 2021. This deal included 14 "made-for-streaming" "South Park" movies that would premiere on Paramount+.

Warner Bros. Discovery claims the defendants used language like "movies," "films," and "events" to sidestep their contractual obligations.

"As Stone publicly described it, "we have fk you money now," the suit claims he said, regarding the deal with MTV.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "South Park lawsuit: Warner Bros. Discovery sues Paramount for $500 million."
Members of the Legislatures Executive Board on Friday heard a plan to create a special committee to study the feasibility of building and operating small modular nuclear reactors in Nebraska.

Sen. Tom Brewer of Gordon said the new technology shows great promise and could serve as a reliable baseload generator that complements Nebraskas shift into renewable energy, and reduce or eliminate the need for long-haul, high-voltage transmission lines.

Its clear to me Nebraska has an opportunity to get in on the ground floor with exciting new opportunities with nuclear energy, Brewer told the committee. I would like to see a special committee, in partnership with the public power utilities, chart a realistic course ahead for Nebraska.

The special committee created by his resolution (LR21) would be made up of chairs of several legislative committees  Natural Resources; Government, Military and Veterans Affairs; Transportation and Telecommunications; and Appropriations  and other members appointed by the Executive Board.

During a committee meeting over the lunch hour, Brewer pointed to a project being developed by NuScale, an Oregon-based company whose design for a small modular nuclear reactor was certified by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission in January, as one possibility for Nebraska.

NuScales model requires a tiny fraction of the space of a traditional nuclear reactor and is capable of producing up to 77 megawatts of electricity, according to the company. A prototype reactor opened at the Idaho National Lab in 2021, and the company is planning several reactors to serve electric customers in Idaho in 2029 and 2030.

Brewer said in the future, small modular reactors like those being built in Idaho could be located at existing power generation facilities such as the Gerald Gentleman coal-fired plant near Sutherland  one of Nebraska Public Power Districts largest energy generators  or spread out across a grid to ensure reliable energy sources for all Nebraskans.

While the new technology has been welcomed in states across the country, the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, in an analysis published last year, called into question the viability of the NuScale project as too late, too expensive, too risky and too uncertain.

The institute said NuScales estimated $58 per megawatt hour was nearly twice that of the price of energy generated through renewable sources, while the actual cost has since risen by 50%, the Washington Post reported earlier this month.

The report also cast doubt on a claim that the modular reactor could run at 95% capacity throughout its lifetime  a target not met by any of the 93 nuclear reactors operating in the U.S.

Omaha Sen. Tony Vargas asked Brewer if it was necessary for the Executive Board to move legislation creating a special committee, or if a study of small modular nuclear reactors could be done within the existing structure of the Legislature.

Brewer said the committee would be responsible for looking into the future and charting a path for ensuring Nebraska and its public power system have reliable energy into the future.

I think the realistic challenge is going to be we have to keep up with technology, Brewer said.

Seth Voyles, a lobbyist representing Omaha Public Power District, said the public power utilities in Nebraska supported the proposed special committee as a way to study the option in-depth, particularly the costs, where modular reactors could potentially be located, and other factors.

The good part about what this study does is it gets us in a position to know what we dont know and know what we have to do going forward so we can actually start putting these things down, he said.

The Executive Board did not take action on Brewers proposal on Friday.
A Lincoln judge this week gave the state a deadline to comply with his order to provide the Flatwater Free Press with a new cost estimate to carry out its public records request related to drinking water and nitrates.

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy previously told the nonprofit news organization it would need to pay a deposit of $44,103.11 before the department would start searching five years of emails.

The price tag prompted Flatwater to sue in November. And the case went to trial early this month.

In an order Feb. 14, Lancaster County District Judge Ryan Post said, while Nebraska law allows public officials to charge a fee for making records available in certain circumstances, it didn't allow them to charge for anything other than time spent physically redacting.

He said Flatwater had a "clear right to a cost estimate in compliance with the statute," and the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy has a clear duty to provide one.

In an order late Thursday, Post said the department still had not provided Flatwater with a new estimate of the expected cost of the copies as he directed in his Feb. 14 order.

And he directed the records manager, Shawnna Lara, to provide it, in compliance with the law, within seven days and to notify the court when it had been done.

That hadn't yet happened as of late Friday afternoon.

In a separate order, Post ordered the state to pay Flatwater $22,175 for its attorney fees and $103 in costs, as is customary when the side has "substantially prevailed."

The Nebraska Attorney General's Office, which represents the Department of Environment and Energy, had disputed the number of hours Flatwater's attorney, Dan Gutman, had spent on the case.

But Post found the fees requested "fair and reasonable."

"The court has considered the nature of the case, the services performed and results obtained, the length of time required for preparation and presentation of the case, the length of time in trial, customary charges of the bar, and the unique questions raised by this case," he said.

At trial, Gutman said NDEE's fee included time spent by staff reviewing and withholding documents under statutory exceptions to disclosure, which isn't authorized by the Public Records Act.

Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Christopher Felts said it was the state's position that the statute permits an agency to charge after the first four hours of time spent "searching, identifying, physically redacting or copying," so long as it isn't for an attorney's time, which is specifically excluded.

In Post's order, he said the statute specifies a charge for labor may be included for searching, identifying, physically redacting, or copying.

"And that is all. 'Reviewing' is not included and it is 'not for the court to supply missing words' to the statute," he wrote.

The Attorney General's Office is expected to appeal.
HOLDREGE  Holdrege High School has reduced the number of music educators for the 2023-24 school year, to the chagrin of some in the community.

After a non-renewal status on a teaching contract, the music department was left with a vacancy for the 2023-24 school year, according to a statement on Holdrege High Schools website. The district said it provided the school with an opportunity to research the present teacher workload and student enrollment in all music courses.

Currently, we do not have enough student participation in supplemental music courses, such as music theory and songwriting, to justify the need for two full-time music educators at the high school in addition to one full-time music instructor at the middle school, the statement read.

HHS currently has 114 students enrolled in music courses. The school plans to reconfigure low enrollment courses for next years schedule to provide all the current music content offerings as well as an allowance for growth. If student enrollment in elective music courses grows sufficiently, the school would reevaluate the need for additional staffing.

For the 2023-24 school year, administrators made the decision to have two full-time music educators for grades 5-12, and Holdrege Public Schools Board of Education approved the 2023-24 negotiated agreements in a unanimous decision at their board meeting Monday evening. One teacher will provide vocal and instrumental instruction at HHS. Ashley Brock, the current HHS vocal music instructor, will teach vocal and instrumental music in 2023-24.

Morgan Sentelle is the current HHS band instructor.

The decision to reduce the number of music instructors has received backlash from some band students, parents and community members. Elena Olson King, a parent of a band member, started a petition three weeks ago on change.org to encourage the school to keep two high school music teachers. As of Tuesday night, the petition had 1,327 signatures. Olson King presented the petition to Board of Education members at their board meeting on Feb 20.

I started the petition because I heard that kids were told there was nothing that they can do. And to me, to tell a child they are hopeless and powerless is one of the worst things you can do, Olson King said in her address to the board. If anything good can come of this is that you see how many people really support music in this community, and people reliving their favorite band teachers or their vocal teachers and how much music has meant for them. So, I ask that you please reconsider this decision. It means so much to the community, to alumni, to parents and students.

Olson King was one of a dozen people who addressed the board about their concerns of reducing the number of teachers in the music department. Dr. Brian Alber, the HHS band instructor from 1999-2004 and current graduate program chair/assistant director of bands/associate professor of music at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, fears that students and the music instructor will be negatively affected by the decision.

I think its really easy to look at the classes, the ensembles that teacher teaches and say that this encompasses their job, and this is where the bulk of education happens. But its not really where the heart of education is at. It is the individual opportunities to work with students. It is the time to help them after school, during planned periods. during lunchtime, before school, where you get to invest in them as individuals and their individual needs, he said. Condensed into one position minimizes those opportunities. There is now twice as many students and twice as many needs to meet.

Amy May, a parent of a Holdrege High School band member, worries students individual needs will no longer be met and the teacher will experience burnout.

We are now cutting that opportunity greatly for many, if not all of these kids, and causing strife for one teacher, she said. As the daughter of two educators, its not beyond me to understand how much time and effort teachers put into their students, especially in band and vocal programs. The hours outside of school are extensive. The class lists that the school has put out the next year is 14-plus class options. How is that feasible for one teacher?

Superintendent Todd Hilyard explained to the Hub after the meeting that staffing and personnel are typically handled by the school administration. The boards main role is to hire and evaluate the superintendent and to administer policy. Board President Teresa Kroll said the board will be looking into the petition that was presented to them at the meeting.

Hilyard said that going into Mondays meeting, the administration felt comfortable with the decision for the future of music education at Holdrege Public Schools.

I know administratively we do feel confident with the amount of staff and quality of staff we do have moving forward, he stated.
Illinois is currently safely in the NCAA Tournament field. It can help its standing there and for the Big Ten Tournament over the next week.
A House bill would prohibit a public utility from taking action against a utility employee who reports wrongdoing in South Carolina.

S.C. House Bill 3614, the Rate Payer Protection Act, aims to hold public utilities accountable to the ratepayers, said Rep. Russell Ott, D-St. Matthews, one of the main sponsors of the bill.

It is a whistleblower protection initiative that affirmatively states that an employee of a utility is free from retribution from their employer for bringing to ORS (Office of Regulatory Staff) knowledge of illegal activity or excessive waste, Ott said.

It is important because we want employees to feel free and safe to bring forward knowledge of bad actors if it ever exists in the future. If there is a fear that they could lose their job by speaking out, they are far less likely to do so. This legislation would hopefully alleviate that fear, he said.

The bill impacts all utilities such as the Orangeburg Department of Public Utilities, Tri-County Electric Cooperative and other cooperatives, Dominion, Duke and Santee Cooper.

The bill is a continuation of the reform measures we passed in the wake of V.C. Summer, Ott said.

Santee Cooper and private partner S.C. Electric & Gas halted work about six years ago on the $9 billion expansion of the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station.

The utilities were able to fund the project by shifting the risk onto their customers using a state law that allowed utilities to raise consumers' electricity rates to pay for nuclear construction.

The House passed the bill last year but it died in the Senate.

Ott is optimistic this year will be different.

We got it to the Senate early this year, so I hope they see the merit of the intent and are willing to take it up, he said.

As written, the law would protect a utility employee's written and oral testimony to the ORS about wrongdoing if it is reported 180 days from when the employee first learns of the alleged wrongdoing.

The bill notes if a report is made to the ORS, the employing public utility must be notified as soon as practicable by the ORS.

The employee would also be protected if they give sworn testimony before House and Senate committees regardless of when the wrongdoing allegedly occurred, according to the proposed bill.

The bill defines wrongdoing as an action by a public utility which results in substantial abuse, misuse, destruction, or loss of substantial public utility funds or public utility resources.

Wrongdoing also includes breaking the law, under the bill.

The bill notes that the utility may not dismiss, suspend from employment, demote, or decrease the compensation of an employee of a public utility because the employee files a report of wrongdoing with the Office of Regulatory Staff.

If the Office of Regulatory Staff determines the employee's report is unfounded, or amounts to a mere technical violation, and is not made in good faith, the public utility may take disciplinary action including termination, the report states.

The bill also notes that a public utility may discipline direct line supervisory employees who retaliate against another employee for having filed a good faith report.

The bill also notes the employee would be able to institute a nonjury civil action against the public utility if they are dismissed, demoted or receive a decrease in compensation by the utility within one a year of reporting a wrongdoing.

The bill notes the employee could sue to get their job back, plus back pay, actual damages not to exceed $15,000 and attorney fees.

Hopefully it will never affect utility providers but I do believe that it can also be viewed as a deterrent of foul play because utility executives will know that their employees now have this protection, Ott said.

The bill has passed the House and has now gone to the Senate, where it has been read once and sent to the Committee on Judiciary.

We certainly do follow any legislation that may impact the DPU, Orangeburg Department of Public Utilities Manager Warren Harley said. In regards to this bill presented by Rep. Ott, we believe that any legislation that protects our staff is worthy of discussion.

Tri-County Electric Cooperative CEO Chad Lowder said the cooperative supports the bill.

I relate it back to our experience in 2018 when staff were going through some issues with the board of directors, Lowder said. If a bill like this was in place, it would have taken pressure off our employees and myself of the risk of losing their jobs by trying to correct some issues.
Gov. Mark Gordon signed a bill into law last week that aims to simplify the approval process for rare earths mines in Wyoming.

Substantial deposits of rare earth elements often occur alongside radioactive materials, such as uranium and thorium. The new law, which was sponsored by the Joint Minerals Committee and sailed unanimously through the Legislature, authorizes the governors office to ask the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to delegate authority over rare earth mines often-hazardous byproducts to the state.

What the bill does is expands, amends, our agreement state status with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Rep. Donald Burkhart Jr., R-Rawlins, told the Senate Minerals Committee on Feb. 2.

The agency gave Wyoming regulators jurisdiction over uranium and thorium mines in 2018.

If we generate uranium or thorium from some other operation, as a byproduct, he said, were not an agreement state, and a company would have to go to the NRC directly for a license to possess byproduct uranium and thorium.

The lawmakers behind the bill worked with the federal agency to ensure the language met its standards. Theyre confident the change will be successful  and believe itll help to jump-start Wyomings rare earths industry by making the permitting process for commercial mines faster and cheaper.

The Wyoming Department of Environmental Qualitys ability to license uranium and thorium mines independently has been a tremendous benefit to the industry, Burkhart told the committee.

Doing it all at the state level, he added, costs companies about half the time and half the money compared with going through the federal process. So we are a lot more efficient being an agreement state.

The state agency is on board with expanding the program, according to Todd Parfitt, director of the Department of Environmental Quality.

So is the governors office, said Jennifer Thomson, Gordons major project development manager, during the same committee meeting.

We see this as a great opportunity for the state to take on the permitting and regulatory actions of an industry that we want to see move forward in the state of Wyoming, Thomson said.

At least one of the rare earths projects in the works in Wyoming will have to secure permission to handle and dispose of radioactive byproducts, either from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission or from the state.

We decided, as a state, we should be able to license those byproduct materials, Burkhart said. The benefits to the industry will be the same as they have to the mining industry, he added. Half the time, half the money.
Demand for water in Casper and other nearby communities was a bit higher in December and January than years past  possibly a side effect of a particularly cold and snowy winter.

Casper buys its water from the Central Wyoming Regional Water System Joint Powers Board. The public system also serves eight smaller entities: Edgerton and Midwests joint powers board, the Pioneer and Wardwell water and sewer systems, and the 33 Mile, Lakeview, Mile-Hi, Poison Spider and Sandy Lake improvement and service districts.

In December, it produced 177 million gallons of water, according to minutes from a January board meeting. Thats about 9.2.% higher than its average December output for 2017 through 2022.

Bruce Martin, Caspers public utilities manager, told board members that water demand usually only strays a couple million gallons from the average during winter months, the minutes say.

Martin said there was a notable increase in demand for water during the polar blast that swept through Wyoming in late December.

That could be because so many people were running their faucets to avoid frozen pipes, he told board members. At one point, a temperature gauge at Casper-Natrona County International Airport plunged to minus 42 degrees  the lowest ever reported in that location.

The system reported a similar increase in demand in January.

It produced 181 million gallons of water that month, which is approximately 8.2% above the average production for January between 2018 and 2023, Martin said in an email to the Star-Tribune.

That, too, could have been due to residents taking precautions against frozen plumbing. Water lost from leaky or burst pipes may have also been a factor. Its hard to know for sure, he said.

The system could also simply have more customers this year, or it could also have to do with commercial usage and the number of days in a billing cycle, Martin added.

The surge in water use shouldnt have any negative impact on the water system as a whole, though.

Wintertime water usage is much less than summertime usage. As such, the slight increase is not negatively impacting the system or supply, Martin said.

As of January, the utility had collected $811,000 more in water charges since the start of fiscal year 2023 compared to the same time in 2022.

Thats partly due to recent utility rate increases. Demand for water was also higher last summer because it was so hot and dry, Martin said in the email.

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CHEYENNE  A Cheyenne man was sentenced Friday in Laramie County District Court for stabbing his mother with a kitchen knife in her apartment in January 2021.

Antonio Landeroz, 21, pleaded guilty on Nov. 23 to aggravated assault and battery with serious bodily injury. As part of a plea agreement, he will serve a sentence of seven to nine years in prison.

A request from the defense for Judge Thomas Campbell to consider probation for the charge of aggravated assault was denied due to the incredibly violent nature of (Landerozs) act.

For one count of felony theft, Landeroz was sentenced to an additional five to seven years in prison, suspended in favor of five years of probation.

Since the time Ive been in this facility, Ive been doing a lot to push myself mentally and make sure I dont end up in the same situation again, Landeroz said Friday. He said he would work to fix relationships with my family as best as I can and as soon as I can.

Brandon Booth, Landerozs court-appointed attorney, said his client had a difficult childhood, saying he first used marijuana at age 8 and alcohol at age 10. Booth also attested to observing signs of experiencing mental and physical abuse.

He noted that both of Landerozs parents served prison sentences during his youth. Booth also emphasized his clients remorse and the fact that he took responsibility for his actions, denying any influence of drugs or alcohol in relation to the crime.

A significant portion of Fridays sentencing hearing also covered ensuring rehabilitation opportunities were available for Landeroz while he serves his prison sentence.

The victim, Gloria Landeroz, also spoke at the sentencing.

I pray hes not punished. Hes so young, she said.
Jose Rizal is not just our national hero but our national homework. Such is the consequence of the Rizal Law, passed in 1956 to instill long-lost nationalism in Filipino youth. Generations of high school and college students have studied Rizals life and novels, labored over extensive book reports, wrote out character names on large manila paper, and dramatized Sisas Crispin! Basilio! countlessly in the classroom, all in the name of nationalism.

Klay (Barbie Forteza), the feisty nursing student at the center of historical portal fantasy drama Maria Clara at Ibarra, is no different. In fact, she was written precisely to personify the usual Filipino student taking these classes: present due to obligation, asleep at her desk because she was busy working the night before, eager to graduate and work overseas to provide for her family. We need not look further than Klay to assess the effectiveness of the Rizal Law  nationalism, like other values, can indeed be taught, but perhaps our neoliberal education system is not the best avenue.

Maria Clara at Ibarra takes Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo out of the classroom, breathing new life into otherwise required work. The shows avid viewership is potent proof of the formats appeal. It has not only achieved good ratings but also triggered Filipino fan cultures unique mechanisms: nightly trending hashtags, TikTok supercuts of beloved pairings, and projects organized by its fan clubs. Rizals characters, born in the 19th century, have joined the ranks of modern Philippine love teams.

20-year-old Joanna Fajela runs the official Twitter fan page for Fidel (a character who doesnt exist in the book, played by David Licauco) and Klays pairing, lovingly nicknamed FiLay. They are currently organizing a thanksgiving event for FiLay fans, where both Forteza and Licauco will be in attendance. My co-workers and I are huge fans of the show, especially [of] FiLay, Fajela said. Last nights episode would be our topic first thing in the morning, and if one of us misses an episode, we will watch it together during our break time.

Fajela added that she started the fan page to lead FiLay Twitter parties  online gatherings where all attendees tweet about the same topic using the same hashtag. We needed to reach higher engagement for our tag lines to trend.

But while the kilig is what draws viewers in, its not what makes them stay. These characters are not strangers to us after all, and Maria Clara at Ibarra is not the first onscreen adaptation of Noli and El Fili. In particular, Maria Clara (played by Julie Ann San Jose in the show) has become a cultural shorthand for a timid, modest Filipino woman  something that the shows head writer Suzette Doctolero argues as inaccurate.

Kung babasahin mo yung libro, hindi naman totoo na mahina si Maria Clara, Doctolero said in a podcast interview. Tinweak namin nang onti [yung character niya] at pinatapang pa namin nang onti.

This is bolstered by Maria Claras interactions with headstrong Klay. Daniela Kuizon, a senior high school student from Davao, said Klay embodies Filipino Gen Z in both manner and mindset. Seeing her interact with the characters from Noli, nakikita mo yung direct comparison Nadadala ni Klay yung mga progressive views niya sa buhay, at bumabangga [yon] sa traditional mindset noon.

Klay is the lifeline of the show in this way: she comes to befriend the characters of Noli, and since viewers see themselves in Klay, it feels they have developed this intimacy with them too  at least to a greater extent than if they just read the book for school. More importantly, Klay is the audiences mouthpiece. Maria Clara as a cultural trope has been deemed outdated by most Gen Z, along with the novel in which she originated. Klay encourages Maria Clara to think for herself and stand up for what she believes in, essentially saying what the readers wish to say to a character whose modesty precedes her identity.

This is not to say Maria Clara at Ibarra is unfaithful to Noli and El Fili, or that the creators took Rizals characters and ran with it. Kuizon lauded how the well-researched show captures the different nuances that prove how much thought went into its production. This is a deliberate effort from the showrunners to ensure that, in the words of head writer Doctolero, hindi magagalit si Rizal samin. The writing goes through multiple rounds of review, and the production team is under the guidance of two historians: Ramon Bomen Guillermo, who they consult for scripting, and Gonzalo Campoamor II, who looks over the authenticity of the production and costumes.

The audience also plays an active, integral role in further enriching the show. Historians have both praised the show and expanded its themes: for instance, the history professor Michael Xiao Chua wrote about the shows emancipation of the characters, while historian Kristoffer Pasion shed light on the decades-long mischaracterization of Sisa. Fajela, who runs the FiLay fan page, said she already found the show enjoyable as a casual viewer, but it was when I created [the fan] account that I truly appreciated the beauty of the show. Fellow fans have helped me see the bigger picture in every scene, and I learn not just from the episode but also from fans.

The show motivated me to do extensive research to help me understand the context [of the show] better. I even purchased a copy of Noli so I can reread it any time, Fajela added. My high school self wouldn't imagine!

History professor and Palanca-winning writer Jose Victor Torres  who, funnily enough, shares his name with Klays professor played by Lou Veloso  confirmed the rising interest in reading and rereading Rizals novels among young and old viewers. He also argued that the show as an artistic interpretation of the books has permission to exercise creative liberty, especially in its addition of Klay and Fidel. Huwag lang sana sila madismaya na wala si Klay sa novel. Thats my only worry. Then again it seems [the book] is still appreciated [by the audience], so I dont think its a big deal if they discover the characters they are fond of are not actually in the book.

While a renewed interest in Philippine literature is a commendable achievement, perhaps we shouldnt deem increased readership as the shows primary metric of success. Reading the books is not the end in itself  in the same way that the creators of Maria Clara at Ibarra want to direct our attention to Rizals work, Rizal wrote Noli and El Fili to direct the attention of his readers to the horrors of Spanish colonial rule.

Theres always going to be different points of view and interpretations [of Rizals work]. But you should not lose the fact that Rizal wrote these for a reason: to awaken our society."

Theres always going to be different points of view and interpretations [of Rizals work]. But you should not lose the fact that Rizal wrote these for a reason: to awaken our society, Torres said. [Noli Me Tangere] was not just a love story, but a story of society. And the fact that a modern character was inserted into it tells us that [what happens in the book] still happens today.

We see here, once again, the importance of Klay as the representative of Gen Z. She is someone who sees no future in her own country and no value in knowing its history. By way of what she goes through in the course of the show, the creators seem to instill in their young viewers the ever-relevant adage that those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it.

Ang soap ang paraan mo ng pakikipag-dialogue sa iyong audience, head writer Doctolero said. Relevant pa rin [ang mga libro ni Rizal], nagbago lang ang mga kontrabida. May mga pumalit lang sa mga prayle Kasama sa saysay natin ang hindi lang magbigay ng aliw kundi maging salamin para mag-reflect ang audience.

Maria Clara at Ibarra also supports a truth that always seems to fall on deaf ears: Philippine media is capable of well-crafted, thought-provoking programming, especially with state support. I hope Maria Clara at Ibarra serves as an eye-opener not only for the Filipino audience, but sa government to invest further in films and TV series like this, senior high school student Kuizon said.

I hope it inspires more Filipino filmmakers and writers to bring the historical drama genre alive in the Philippines, kasi ang masasabi ko lang: I will be seated.
JACKSON  Chris Marcum is a horse guy.

Youve maybe seen him galloping around Wilson with trail horses, taking care of sometimes 50 at a time. Marcum has lived in the valley for 30-plus years, sleeping in an R-Pod travel trailer on his friends property for the last seven.

In the spring, when he visits his dads ranch in Buna, Texas, hes tasked with raising the colts after their moms are taken: providing the initial touch, teaching them to pick up their feet, and throwing balls at them for play.

Marcum was in Texas in November on a brief trip to see his dad when he started feeling sick. Hot sweats, cold sweats, fatigue and other flu-like symptoms took hold. Upon returning home, he told his boss at Jackson Hole Real Estate about the illness, and his boss suggested he might have long COVID.

Up until that point the middle-aged man said he had always been healthy. For that reason, he hasnt ever had health insurance. Hed rather eat a tomato than take an Advil, he said.

By the end of January, his symptoms had gotten much worse, including a distended belly and blood in excretions.

Even though Im Native American, I looked kind of white and sickly, Marcum recounted. I was down.

As Cherokee and Navajo, he qualifies for free care through the Indian Health Service, a federal medical system for Native Americans that offers medical services without premiums, enrollment fees, copays, deductibles or coinsurance when provided directly, or when referred to non-Indian health providers.

However, the closest Indian Health Service office is near Pocatello, Idaho  about 90 miles away from Jackson, or in Fort Washakie, 100 miles away.

Distance aside, Marcum was confident that the quality of care hed receive on the reservations wouldnt be good enough.

Hes not off-base, according to The New York Times, which reported that death rates for preventable diseases  like diabetes, alcohol-related illnesses and liver disease  are three to five times higher for Native Americans, who largely rely on those hospitals, than for all other races combined.

Federal government funding for Native American health care is also low. In 2016 the U.S. spent roughly a third on Indian Health Service patients than it spent on federal inmates: $2,843 versus $8,602 per capita.

Ruling out the Indian Health Service, Marcum walked into the St. Johns Health Urgent Care clinic by Smiths. Right away he received a slew of tests, and, later that day, two liters of blood transfusions. The doctors identified internal bleeding, an enlarged liver and harmful bacteria in Marcums blood, though his overall diagnosis was not yet clear.

Marcum was in a critical state, and the doctors decided he needed to get to the University of Utah Hospital stat. The last shuttle to Salt Lake City had already left for the day, so the medics made it clear he needed to be emergency airlifted to the university hospital.

Im not sure what happened, he said. They did it by helicopter, which I would not recommend.

Marcum was under drugs when he was notified of the plan and regretted agreeing to the helicopter transfer. Part of his distaste for the flight was the price, but the other part was the experience. The helicopter was compact, which made his 5-foot-6 body feel extremely cramped.

It was small like an ironing board, and I was strapped in there, skin and bone, he recalled. It hurt so bad all the way there. I could feel all the bumps.

Because the doctors were still unsure of what was wrong with Marcum, they administered so many lab tests it felt like the process of elimination, he said. Eventually the doctors identified an infected blood clot, as well as two abscesses in Marcums liver.

The medics installed drainage tubes to his liver, along with a catheter. He was also given eight rounds of antibiotics a day. After a week and a half, Marcum was released and driven home by a friend.

Life has returned to a version of normal since he was first hospitalized around three weeks ago. Hes back home, hes at work, but hes burdened by drainage tubes that are still sticking out of his side, along with the catheter.

The most painful part, though, are the bills.

At the University of Utah, one doctor said hed wipe Marcums $6,908 bill for antibiotics, but he likely wont get anything else for free. Marcum guessed the reason for the gesture was because hes a single guy, pushing 50, and that he doesnt have health insurance, like everyone else in Jackson.

Marcum still has to have the drainage tubes removed and another CT scan, among other medical procedures that will cost several thousand dollars. The doctor in Salt Lake warned the impending bills would be high, and so far, his prediction has proven true.

Less than a week after returning from Utah, Marcum posted on Facebook page: This is how much I owe as of today! Theres no more pay as much as you can. Im screwed. The beginning of the end. $76K.

The billing department of St. Johns notified Marcum that the emergency helicopter ride would cost about $45,000. The plethora of lab tests at St. Johns would add around $24,000. And at the time, the remaining bill at the University of Utah was about $7,000.

Marcum tried to apply for health insurance via the federal marketplace, but the application window for the year closed in January. He also applied for Medicaid insurance on Feb. 17, but it can take 45 days for his application to be processed, and he cannot receive retroactive financial assistance for the $76,000-plus hell owe from the last few weeks.

As for the roughly $24,000 payment hell owe St. Johns, the billing department provided Marcum with a few options.

Despite the fact that the hospital has a budget of $3.6 million for charity care this year and approves around 80% of aid applications, Marcum was not interested. Sharing the necessary application documents, including tax forms, pay stubs and bank statements, felt too personal to Marcum.

From there, St. Johns suggested a payment plan of $2,000 a month for a year. That too was off the table: Marcum could never swing a couple thousand a month.

The billing department suggested he could set up a no-interest loan with the Commerce Bank of Wyoming, which would extend the payment plan to 36 months, costing $500 a month. While that option was far more attractive than the others, $500 a month is as much as a car payment for Marcum.

The longtime Jackson Hole resident used to work at the Cadillac Grille restaurant, then the Wort Hotel and Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Hes slept in his trailer for the last seven years and lives simply.

He could have received free care through the Indian Health Service, but because the closest facilities were so far away and couldnt provide the kind of care he needed, Marcum felt optionless. And while his sister told him some reservation hospitals are high-quality, none are nearby.

When Marcum was drugged up and tired after what he thought would be a quick visit to the clinic by Smiths, the last thing on his mind was transferring to the reservation hospital his sister recommends, 100 miles away.

I just wanted it fixed, Marcum said.

Instead of wishing for a nice quality Indian Health Service hospital closer by, hed much prefer that St. Johns would cover Native American health care entirely. In turn, Marcum is confronted with impossible medical bills that he must find a way to pay while in recovery.

St. Johns billing department did provide one more option.

If Marcum could pay for half of the $24,000 bill within a certain time, the hospital would drop the remaining half owed, he said. That means that if Marcum could find a way to fork over $12,000, hed be free of financial burden, at least at St. Johns, that could loom until 2026.

In response, Marcums niece organized a GoFundMe campaign on Feb. 6 to raise money for his unexpected medical expenses. Since Tuesday the listing has raised over $4,000 in donations, which is not even 5% of what hell owe.

Marcum hopes the Jackson Hole community will show up for him, as he has for them for the past 30-plus years.

As the head of Sleeping Indian Catering, Marcum has graced at least 160 houses a year in Jackson Hole with knock-and-drop Navajo tacos. In other words, hed knock on doors, drop some sizzling tacos and take off.

And when hes not busy ding-dong-ditching, hes commonly found kicking up his boots at the Wort and Cowboy. Marcum is one of the regular swing dancers in town.

Without health insurance or a big bank account, he never thought his health would take a dramatic turn at the start of the new year.

Emergency helicopter flights and numerous medical tests can prove more painful to the bank account than to the body, at least in Marcums case.
Between 10,000 and 15,000 people in Wyoming may lose their Medicaid insurance coverage in the next year, according to the Wyoming Department of Health.

Part of the reason is that two federal COVID-19 emergency declarations will end in May, prompting an end to extended Medicaid coverage and other options for many across the state.

The declarations, made by the Trump administration in 2020, provided agencies, states and health care organizations with a host of new resources and permissions. They were reauthorized several times before Jan. 30 when the Biden administration announced the emergency declarations would end May 11.

While the response to COVID-19 is not over  we are in a position where we can effectively start to lift the Public Health Emergency (PHE) and the National Emergency related authorities, a spokesperson for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services stated in an email.

Some of the new resources and programmatic flexibilities will dry up with the end of the declared emergency, creating a potential cliff for Medicaid patients.

During the pandemic, the federal government gave states additional money for Medicaid with the requirement that no one could lose that coverage. That meant if someone had a life change that would normally disqualify them from the program  increased income, becoming an adult, etc.  they could still keep that insurance, at least until the emergency declarations ended.

In December, though, Congress passed legislation to allow states to start phasing patients off of Medicaid who no longer qualify, starting in April.

Were going to start sending renewal notices in March to clients, Kim Deti, Wyoming Department of Health spokesperson, said via email. It wont be everyone at once. Well send a certain percentage of renewal notices each month over the next 12 months.

A lot more Wyoming residents used Medicaid during the pandemic  about 85,000 in fiscal 2023 compared to 57,000 in FY 2020  according to Deti. As the Health Department starts re-analyzing Medicaid eligibility, it expects thousands will lose coverage.

Its been estimated by our Medicaid program that perhaps 10,000 to 15,000 individuals will no longer be eligible to receive Wyoming Medicaid benefits, Deti stated. Common reasons this can happen include reaching adulthood so no longer eligible for coverage as a child or a change in personal and family income.

The department will help people transition off Medicaid and potentially to other insurance options, Deti said.

The purge could mean increased need at free clinics like the Downtown Clinic in Laramie, which only serves those without insurance and who make less than 200% the federal poverty level.

We expect there to be more applicants for our services, said Pete Gosar, executive director of the largely volunteer-run Downtown Clinic. And its difficult because were only able to keep our doors open three days a week.

The disenrollment will coincide with the end of emergency rental assistance programs, and so you could easily find people without health care and without housing here by the end of June, he said.

Gosar is also concerned more residents will wait till health challenges are acute before reaching out for help. That already happens at his clinic, he said, and it can ultimately lead to unpaid emergency room bills and people facing serious health complications or death.

Is that really a way we want to address each other as Wyoming citizens? Or is that really a smart plan for our workforce and a health care system thats already strained? he asked.

Efforts to expand Medicaid in Wyoming for those who earn too much to qualify for the coverage  but often too little to afford private insurance  have failed at the legislature several times. The state estimates Medicaid expansion would insure about 19,000 people over two years.

A bill that would help extend Medicaid coverage for new mothers passed the House and is now up for consideration on the Senate floor.

Emergency declarations enabled providers to offer a wide range of new services via telehealth that once required in person visits or other types of care. Congress extended many of those flexibilities late last year.

[T]hanks to the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, many of the telehealth flexibilities that people with Medicare have relied on during the [Public Health Emergency] will remain available through December 31, 2024, a CMS spokesperson wrote.

That specifically included a waiver to provide Medicare recipients with acute care from home via telehealth.

The extension of services was significant, but left out a few key provisions, according to Kyle Zebley, the senior vice president of public policy for the American Telemedicine Association.

The ability to prescribe controlled substances over a screen didnt make the cut and is set to end with the public health emergency.

So that could end and that in-person requirement could come back into effect as soon as May 11, Zebley said.

That includes substances like psychiatric medications and treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Zebley fears that could leave some to seek substances illegally, risking their lives. People will still be able to get buprenorphine as treatment for opioid use disorder via telehealth.

Reimbursement for telehealth services may also change, Zebley said. In 2021, there were requirements put in place for telehealth appointments to be reimbursed at the same rate as in-person ones.

Now, that decision will likely be handled like other reimbursement calculations: via the annual physician fee schedule.

Might not be the way we want it handled, but I think that we will get a clearer answer through regular regulatory rulemaking, he said.

If rates drop, that could discourage health care providers from offering the option.

Those reimbursement levels would only last a year, though, which Zebley said leaves room for uncertainty no matter what they end up being. Even the two-year extension for other telehealth policies isnt much time for the medical community to establish new telehealth systems.

This is no way to run a healthcare system, he said. Its a giant system that moves slowly and requires predictability in order to make the investments necessary to deliver the highest level of care thats in the best interest of [the] patient population.

States also have substantial influence on telehealth practices and mandates, Zebley said, including standards of care, regulations and what state Medicaid will cover.

Wyoming lawmakers recently embraced new forms of telehealth by signing onto multi-state compacts where counselors and psychologists in other areas could help treat patients over a screen. Both compacts passed the Legislature, and the counselor compact has been signed into law.

The policies above just scratch the surface of what the ending federal emergency declarations will mean for patients, providers, hospital systems and insurance companies.

Certain reporting requirements may lapse, for example, making it harder to know the rate of COVID-19 infections in the U.S. Access to free COVID-19 tests will also become limited to what the government has already purchased and to certain groups.

Federal officials are also still in conversations about what will end and what might be preserved through new agency policies or law.

With all that flux, individuals with concerns about access to tests or treatment are encouraged to reach out to their insurance or health care providers.

The CMS have also been posting information on CMS.gov, the webpage cms.gov/coronavirus-waivers and on Medicaid.gov.
Telecoms provider Flow will increase prices next month.

In a notice to its customers on Wednesday, Flow said the 3.5-per cent increase in its Internet and cable packages will come into effect on May 1.

Another notice was sent to customers with multiple cable boxes via e-mail on Wednesday.
CHAGUANAS nightlife is said to be declining as random crimes increase, with food vendors and bar operators calling yesterday for better arrest rates to stop repeat criminals.

Once booming mostly as a result of plentiful fast food options, the Chaguanas Main Road is still a go-to for doubles and gyros but now shows much less activity after dark than in years past.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 26)  House Speaker Martin Romualdez wants an urgent meeting with officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Monday to discuss the recent wave of high-profile crimes and other issues in the country.

"Nakakabahala na dahil parang halos every week may malaking balita tungkol sa mga napapatay sa kalye [It's alarming because it seems that almost every week there is news about high-profile killings]," Romualdez said in a statement on Sunday.

Several attacks on government officials were recently reported, including separate ambushes on a Maguindanao mayor, the Lanao del Sur governor, and the vice mayor of Aparri, Cagayan, who unfortunately did not survive.

Politics appear to be the motive behind the ambuscades, according to Romualdez.

He added that he wants to know what actions the PNP and the DILG are taking to combat these types of crimes.

"We will ask the police and the DILG, saan ang problema? Intelligence ba? Paano makakatulong ang Kongreso sa paglutas ng mga krimeng ito? [We will ask the police and the DILG  where does the problem lie? Is it intelligence? How can Congress help in solving these crimes?]" the House leader said.
Fat Tuesday is technically over, with Mardi Gras celebrations being held in New Orleans on Feb. 21. But in Tucson, the party is just getting started.

The 3rd annual Mardi Gras Festival, hosted by Tucson Mardi Gras, will return on Saturday, March 11, and Sunday, March 12, at 1102 E. Grant Road.

The festival will be free to the public and feature parades, Louisiana style cuisine, live music, specialty drinks and a Bourbon Street Balcony Experience, according to the Tucson Mardi Gras website.

Coordinators at Tucson Mardi Gras decided to hold the event March 11 and 12 to ensure warm weather for the festivities, as opposed to hosting the event on the traditional Mardi Gras date.

Due to actual Mardi Gras falling so early in February for 2023, we made the decision to move this event to March, plus we know Tucsonans dont like to be outside when its cold, so we will be celebrating when its a little warmer and the crawfish are bigger! said Bobby Sutton, creator of Tucson Mardi Gras.

The main Mardi Gras festival will be on March 11 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will be more oriented towards the 18-and-up crowd. March 12 will be Family Festival Day and will feature festivities for the whole family from noon to 6 p.m.

However, if you cant wait and find yourself in need of some southern-style cooking now, or anytime of year, local Tucson restaurants, with Louisiana leanings, The Delta, 135 S. Sixth Ave., and The Parish, 6453 N. Oracle Road, are ready to serve you.

The restaurants (Parish and The Delta) are both southern leaning in nature. A lot of people try to put us in the category of being Cajun or Creole or New Orleans but we never really tout that. We have Louisiana leanings but we try and put our own spin on southern food, said Steve Dunn, one of the restaurants owners.

The Parish has been serving southern-style cuisine since 2011 and The Delta has been certified by the Tucson City of Gastronomy. Both restaurants celebrated Mardi Gras with their own respective festivals on Feb 21.

We have roots in Louisiana; I used to live and work there and my business partner is from Baton Rouge and we just like to have a great time, Dunn said.

Both The Parish and The Delta feature dishes like seafood gumbo, cast iron cornbread, pork rinds, poutine platters and an array of specialty drinks and cocktails.

The chef is just always thinking outside of the box and finding new ways to do things, you know? Dunn said.

Dual restaurant chef and owner, Travis Peters has competed in reality cooking shows like Guys Grocery Games, Chopped and Iron Chef Tucson, winning first prize in both Guys Grocery Games and Iron Chef Tucson.

Find the restaurants full menus on their websites  thedeltatucson.com and theparishtucson.com. Both are open seven days a week.
A 20-year-old man who refused to be taken to the hospital after a crash died two days later, Tucson police say.

Alexander Salazar-Acevedo, 20, was a passenger in a silver 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 that was in a crash about 9:45 p.m. Tuesday at South Park Avenue and East Benson Highway. Police said in a news release.

Tucson Fire evaluated everyone at the crash and none of the injuries appeared serious. Salazar-Acevedo declined to be taken to the hospital, saying he's go later with family, the release said.

Two days later police were notified that Salazar-Acevedo died. On Friday, an autopsy showed his death was related to crash injuries, police said.

In the crash, the Mercedes as headed north on Park Avenue when police say it collided with a southbound 2019 Ford F-350 turning left onto Benson Highway.

The driver of the truck was cited at the crash scene, police said.
UniSource: UniSource Energy Services contributed more than $360,000 in 2022 to nearly 100 local nonprofit organizations or causes, including significant new support for housing stability.

In addition to its traditional philanthropic focus areas  community assistance, education, environmental stewardship and racial and social equity  UniSource invested $100,000 in efforts to address growing housing needs across Arizona including $20,000 to Santa Cruz County. The donation was split by Chicanos Por La Causa, to support residents with delinquent mortgage and utility bills, and the Southeastern Arizona Community Action Program, which will provide weatherization and electrical panel upgrades.

UniSources philanthropic contributions come from corporate resources and are not recovered through customers rates. Highlights from the Southern Arizona area include 15 recipients in Nogales, including the Nogales Education Foundation ($6,000) and Santa Cruz Training Programs ($3,200).

Some of the organizations and community projects that received contributions were chosen by UniSources Community Action Teams, employee-led committees that organize charitable activities in each community. Last year, UniSource employees reported donating about 3,000 hours to the causes.

UniSource customers also supported nonprofit organizations through UniSource Gives. Every time customers signed up for Budget Billing, e-Bill or Auto Pay, the company made a donation to a designated charity. Last years recipients included the Arizona Trail Association, which received $11,525, and Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, which received $10,000.

In addition, UniSource contributed $50,000 to support Wildfire's bill payment assistance efforts.

Organizations seeking funding, in-kind assistance and volunteers can learn how to request support online at uesaz.com/community.

Intuit QuickBooks: Tucson local non-profits I Am You 360, Youth on Their Own, and Friends of PACC, serving homeless youth and families, foster care, and kinship families, as well as shelter animals in the local Tucson community, received donations from Intuit QuickBooks, which purchased and donated items from local small businesses including Dogs and Donuts, Triple L Feed and Supply, Sapphire Catering, and Food Conspiracy.
A top U.S. Army official reversed himself on a key decision  a reversal that could bolster Hudbay Minerals Inc.s legal argument that the washes on its long-delayed Rosemont Mine site dont merit federal regulation.

Assistant Army Secretary Michael Connor wrote an August 2022 memo withdrawing a decision that had overruled an earlier decision freeing the Rosemont sites washes from federal Clean Water Act protection. Connors latest decision appears to restore a 2021 Army Corps of Engineers decision that the washes at the Rosemont site arent covered by the Clean Water Act.

Despite that, late Friday an Army Corps of Engineers spokeswoman referred in an email to a possibility of enforcement action against Hudbays plans to grade washes inside an area of the Santa Rita Mountains south of Tucson thats covered by a now-suspended Clean Water Act permit for the Rosemont Mine.

Hudbay has told us they intend to proceed with filling in washes that fall within the permit areas. We are coordinating with EPA on enforcement. Enforcement is discretionary, Dena ODell, a spokeswoman for the Corps Los Angeles District, said in the email, without elaborating.

The Corps has already said the EPA was conducting a law enforcement investigation of Hudbays grading activities. EPA has declined to comment on it or acknowledge its happening.

The Corps hasnt responded to questions from the Star about the apparent discrepancy between Connors August 2022 decision and the agencys increasingly aggressive actions regarding Hudbay since then, including a mid-January order that the company stop work on washes lying within the Clean Water Act permit area.

Hudbay: Corps lacks authority over site

Hudbay officials have said repeatedly they dont believe the Corps has any authority over the site.

Thats partly because of the agencys earlier decision waiving jurisdiction over the Rosemont site, and partly because the company formally surrendered its permit almost a year ago, the company said.

The Corps, however, hasnt accepted the validity of Hudbays permit surrender, although a federal judge did that in a ruling in May 2022 in refusing an effort by mine opponents to stop Hudbays grading of washes in that area.

The Corps, which Connor oversees, had decided in March 2021 that it no longer had any authority over the Rosemont washes. Until then, the agency had relied on a decade-old, preliminary determination asserting its jurisdiction over the washes, which the company proposing the Rosemont Mine had voluntarily accepted.

That earlier, preliminary determination of Corps  jurisdiction was a basis for its March 2019 issuance of a Clean Water Act permit, authorizing the mining company to deposit dredged and fill material into those washes as part of its construction work.

Work on Copper World project

Hudbay has been grading and clearing private land on the west slope area of the Santa Rita Mountains on and off since April 2022, for what it says are future waste rock and tailing disposal areas for its Copper World project. The company owns 4,500 acres on the east and west slopes of the Santa Ritas on which it plans to build four open pits for mining copper and numerous other facilities for processing and other activities.

One of the pits would occupy the same area originally proposed for the Rosemont open pit. With the Rosemont Mine itself now on hold due to an unfavorable federal court ruling, Hudbay has renamed that pit the East Pit.

The Clean Water Act permit area was intended to cover only the original Rosemont Mine site. But it also includes part of the west slope area now due to be mined by Copper World, including a utility corridor through which electricity and water would be delivered to the mine site from the Sahuarita area.

The August 2022 memo outlining Connors policy reversal came to light after the Corps issued the stop work order in mid-January 2023. Hudbay replied at the end of January that it did not believe it is legally bound to comply with the order.

Friday, in a statement released to the Star , the mining company said it agrees with Connors most recent decision and that his earlier decision of June 2022 contradicted established policy and past practice.

The company also said it believes the Corps lacks authority over that area because the Corps only has jurisdiction over Waters of the U.S. Legally, those are rivers, washes and other water courses deemed environmentally and biologically significant enough to merit federal protection.

There is no credible evidence that the dry washes on the Copper World site are Waters of the U.S., Hudbay said. To the contrary, Hudbay has demonstrated that they are not ... and shared this analysis with the (Department of Justice, the Army Corps, tribes, and environmentalists) in April 2022.

Hudbay has studied the ability of the dry washes on the west side to transport contaminants downstream by analyzing stormwater, sediment, and plant samples. These studies show that material from the site is generally only transported 7-8 miles through the flat sandy washes, the company said in its written statement.

Federal agencies require the existence of a significant connection between a development sites normally dry washes and a navigable waterway for the washes to come under federal control. Hudbay said the nearest downstream navigable water is the Colorado River, near Yuma, over 350 miles away.

The Corps and EPA, however, have designated sections of the much closer Santa Cruz River as navigable.

Santa Cruz River role debated

Stu Gillespie, an attorney for three tribes fighting the mine, has sent the Corps two documents making the case that the washes at the original Rosemont site and the larger Copper World site do qualify as Waters of the U.S. One is a report the tribes commissioned laying out such arguments. Another is an EPA meno, from 2021, criticizing the Army Corps decision that year that the Rosemont washes dont qualify as Waters of the U.S.

Mark Murphy, a scientist hired by the tribes, concluded that the Rosemont-area washes, both individually and in combination with similarly situated streams, have a significant nexus with the Santa Cruz.

Murphys conclusion is based on an extensive review of the scientific literature, field observations, on-the-ground data, and watershed modeling. His report summarizes the extensive scientific literature on ephemeral streams and their role in maintaining the Santa Cruz Rivers ecological integrity, Gillespie wrote to the Corps in December.

In response, Corps spokeswoman ODell told the Star, late Friday, The Corps is evaluating the information provided by the tribes concerning the March 2021 decision waiving authority over the Rosemont washes.

No decision has been made yet to reevaluate its determination, she said.

Corps on very shaky legal grounds

The final, legal impact of Connors August 2022 decision on Hudbays activities remains unknown, as are Hudbays actual grading plans.

The Corps hasnt responded to questions from the Star about what authority it has to stop work in the Rosemont permit area, in light of Connors August 2022 decision.

In Hudbays response to the Corps stop work order, company executive Javier Del Rio said it has no plans for work affecting washes covered by the Corps permit until Monday, Feb. 27, at the earliest. Asked last week by the Star if it now intends to start grading and clearing in those areas, Hudbay replied only, We are in frequent communication with the Corps.

A Vermont-based environmental law professor, Patrick Parenteau, told the Star last week that the Corps is on very shaky legal grounds in ordering Hudbay to stop work at Copper World because of Connors August 2022 restoration of the Corps earlier decision waiving authority over the Rosemont site.

They flipflopped, said Parenteau, of Vermont Law School.

He cited an Army Corps Safe Harbor guideline thats been on the books for 20 years. It says a jurisdictional decision like the one the Corps made for Rosemont in 2021 is valid for a minimum of five years unless new information warrants revision of the determination before the expiration date. Connor cited that policy in his August 2022 memo.

That guideline isnt a formal regulation, Parenteau said. But a 2016 U.S. Supreme Court ruling said that such a determination is a binding agreement.

When the feds make this kind of representation for private parties, theyre entitled to rely on it, the professor said, speaking of an agency decision waiving jurisdiction over a development site.

He said the Corps can go to court to assert it no longer considers a jurisdictional decision valid, or environmentalists could sue to have it overturned.

But the cease and desist order means nothing. You need a court order to stop clearing of washes, Parenteau said. Without it, Hudbay can refuse, he said.

Bui if the Corps were to go to court and win on this case, they can tack on penalties on Hudbay to the tune of $55,000 per day for every day they are in violation of a cease and desist order, Parenteau said.

Hudbay has to be certain it doesnt have to obey a cease and desist order, he said, adding, If they are wrong ... they are going to pay big time.
PHOENIX  Some Arizona lawmakers want 19 cities to be stripped of their right to home rule, simply to help get Republicans elected to the Tucson City Council.

A proposal awaiting action by the full Senate would ask voters to repeal a provision in the Arizona Constitution that allows cities to adopt charters. These charters, approved by local voters, can govern a host of issues about how the city is run, ranging from whether to have a city manager, to the size of the council, to the dates for an election. It is is on the Senate calendar for Monday afternoon.

Sen. Justine Wadsack, R-Tucson, said shes interested in killing just one local right: The ability to decide how to elect council members. The object of her ire is the unusual  and unique in Arizona  system by which Tucson chooses who will serve on its council.

Only thing is, lawmakers lack the power to simply override what Tucson voters have decided. Judges have ruled the method of electing council members is a matter of strictly local concern, protected by Tucsons status as a charter city.

So Wadsack has proposed Senate Concurrent Resolution 1023 to remove the authority to form charter cities. If approved by legislators and ratified in 2024 by voters, it would free state lawmakers to tell Tucson how it must run its elections.

But SCR1023 also would undermine the charters of 18 other cities, repealing their own locally written laws and making them, too, subject to the whims of state lawmakers.

Tucsons system at issue

The fuss is over Tucsons modified ward system.

Candidates are nominated by voters in the wards in which they live. That ensures each area has a local representative.

The candidates then have to survive a citywide vote to get elected, a provision intended to ensure each council member is responsive to the wishes of all city residents and not only those in their ward.

Wadsack said people who may live miles away from a district should have no say in who represents that area.

But theres something else: The current system works against Republicans.

Only one of Tucsons six wards is politically competitive. GOP registrants are outnumbered by more than 2-1 on a citywide basis. And that means Democrats, as the majority in the general election that decides who gets on the council, can override the ward voters preference.

Other cities also oppose measure

Wadsacks idea has drawn opposition from the League of Arizona Cities and Towns. Lobbyist Tom Belshe said the people who wrote the Arizona Constitution said people living in cities should be able to decide if they want a charter and the home rule ability to craft their own laws that comes with it.

This was meant to be a local decision, Belshe told the Senate Government Committee.

Also important, he said, is that charters can impose more limits on city officials than Arizona law requires. For example, he said, only charter cities can impose term limits on mayors and council members.

Taking away this authority goes against the idea of local control, Belshe said.

Then theres the fact that the effort in SCR1023 to improve the odds of Republicans getting elected in Tucson would override the home rule rights of the 18 other cities with charters  and the ability of other Arizona cities to adopt one in the future.

Lobbyists from Chandler, Goodyear, Peoria, Scottsdale and Tempe, all charter cities, registered objections, along with Tucsons lobbyist Andrew Greenhill.

Sen. Priya Sundareshan, D-Tucson, questioned Wadsacks approach.

I find this referral to the ballot a very extreme response to a particular disagreement with our city of Tucson, she said, saying that stripping home rule simply to change the election procedures would have unintended consequences in the other 18 charter cities.

Wadsack, however, said there is no reason that some cities have the right to refuse to follow certain state laws simply because they have a charter.

I dont know very many other states in the union that the cities have the ability to supersede state law, she said. I would like to see Tucson follow the same rules as the rest of the state.

Sen. Juan Mendez, D-Tempe, whose city also has a charter, poked fun at the claim that every city should fall into line with what the Legislature decides.

If this body is so insecure (that it doesnt want) to have any other entity have local government and local control, we have much bigger problems, he said.

Mendez pointed out that SCR1023 and its bid to eliminate charter cities would be decided on the 2024 ballot not just by those living in those communities but by voters from throughout the state who are unaffected.

From an equity standpoint, it doesnt make sense to let the rest of the states voters tell citizens of these communities how they should be governed, he said.

Fallback proposal

While SCR1023 was approved by the GOP-controlled Senate Government Committee on a party-line vote, Wadsack has a fallback proposal should this one falter amid opposition from other charter cities.

Her SCR1027 would put a provision in the Arizona Constitution saying that if cities have a ward system, only those who live in that ward can vote on a candidate at any stage of the election process. That clearly would affect only Tucson.

We dont have fair elections, Wadsack said. Our council members are being voted for by voters that are far outside of their area of interest.

She said what she wants is no different than what happens at the Legislature, where lawmakers are chosen solely by people who live in their own districts. Ditto county supervisors who are elected by district. The city needs to be the same, Wadsack said.

Greenhill said Tucson residents apparently like the system, pointing out that a ballot measure in the 1990s to change it was rejected.

Our system creates accountability to both the geographic ward and the city as a whole, he said.

Greenhill said putting the measure on the statewide ballot in 2024 would be inconsistent with Wadsacks desire to have only those in a given council district decide what is best for themselves.

Please consider that asking 90 other cities and towns, and all the unincorporated people across our state, to interfere in one citys election system seems at odds with that very principle, he said.

Republicans on the Government Committee disagreed, supporting this change, like Wadsacks other one, on a party-line vote.

Courts have ruled for Tucsons system

This isnt the first bid by Republicans to overturn Tucsons voting system.

In 2009, Jonathan Paton, then a Republican state senator from Tucson, pushed through legislation that would have voided the modified ward system. It also would have barred cities from conducting local elections where the candidates political affiliations are listed on the ballot.

That measure was overturned by the state Supreme Court in 2012. The justices said Tucson, as a charter city, has a right under the Arizona Constitution to decide whether to conduct partisan elections and how to elect council members.

Undeterred, the Public Integrity Alliance filed suit in federal court on behalf of several Tucson Republicans charging that the system was an unconstitutional violation of the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The alliance argued that the system gives some voters more power than others and, in some cases, effectively nullifies their votes.

That contention was rejected by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Tucsons hybrid system for electing members of its city council imposes no constitutionally significant burden on voters rights to vote, the appellate court ruled. And Tucson has advanced a valid, sufficiently important interest to justify its choice of electoral system.

The U.S. Supreme Court put the issue to bed in 2017 when it refused to disturb the 9th Circuit ruling.
First lady Jill Biden did not hesitate when asked if there was any chance her husband would not run for reelection in 2024.

"Not in my book," she told CNN in an interview Saturday during a five-day trip that saw her visit Namibia and Kenya. "I'm all for it, of course."

Her comments are the latest indication that President Joe Biden is on the verge of launching a reelection bid, even as a formal declaration has yet to be made.

The president joked in an interview with ABC News last week that he had to call his wife "to find out" whether he was running in 2024. He stressed that his intention "has been from the beginning to run. But there's too many other things we have to finish in the near term before I start a campaign."

Jill Biden told CNN that the president's surprise trip to Ukraine last week and domestic issues have kept him busy in recent days, adding that "nothing's been planned as yet."

Critics have pointed to the 80-year-old president's age as a factor in another run. Biden would be 82 by the 2024 inauguration and 86 by the end of a potential second term. But the first lady said his trip to Ukraine showed that he still has the energy for another presidential campaign and another four years in office.

"How many 30-year-olds could travel to Poland, get on the train? Go nine more hours, go to Ukraine, meet with President (Volodymyr) Zelensky?" she said. "So, look at the man. Look what he's doing. Look what he continues to do each and every day."

Jill Biden said she's not frustrated by all the "will he or won't he" speculation and wouldn't confirm whether a decision on a 2024 run has been made or when it might be announced.

"It's Joe's decision," she said. "And we support whatever he wants to do. If he's in, we're there. If he wants to do something else, we're there too."

The-CNN-Wire
The Arizona-based Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association, a group described as anti-democratic by domestic extremism researchers, is elevating some of its most controversial members  including those with direct ties to other anti-government and white nationalism movements  into formal leadership positions.

The CSPOA promoted long-time staffer and self-described constitutional scholar Sam Bushman to CEO while also adding members of its more radical arm to a newly created advisory board, cementing both their positions and their perspectives into efforts to expand its ideology and influence across the U.S.

The group will maintain its focus on recruiting and training law enforcement, but also plans to increase online resources to better reach the general public, including local elected officials, as it builds on momentum it gained during the pandemic.

It is basically a hate group as far as Im concerned, and why would law enforcement ever want to consider themselves (part of it)? asked Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, a Democrat and outspoken critic of the far-right sheriff movement that includes CSPOA. We have a lot of sheriffs in this state that need to rethink their positions, I think, in terms of ideologues.

The so-called constitutional sheriff organization, which has consistently pushed back on allegations of having racist ties, is best known for its controversial legal theories about a sheriffs power to override the authority of state and federal government, including a duty to nullify laws they interpret as unconstitutional.

The group experienced a resurgence of interest in recent years after thrusting itself into the anti-vaccination and election-denial movements, ultimately presenting the sheriff as a solution. It encouraged sheriffs to refuse to enforce COVID-19 mask mandates and rallied public support for sheriffs to investigate debunked claims of widespread voter fraud.

Bushman, who was CSPOA national operations director prior to his promotion, has so far largely escaped public scrutiny. He hosts the online talk show Liberty Roundtable, a Utah-based program that regularly espouses anti-LGBTQ content and syndicates the white nationalist show Political Cesspool, in addition to other programming that promotes God, Family, and Country.

CSPOA founder and former Graham County Sheriff Richard Mack officially stepped back from managing the groups day-to-day operations to take a position with Americas Frontline Doctors, a controversial anti-vaxxer organization. Experts suspect Mack is using the new role to shore up further support for CSPOA, while still maintaining control as president of its new advisory board and continuing to speak at CSPOA trainings.

Domestic extremism researchers warn that such trainings are filled with misinformation designed to radicalize attendees, and that any relationships between officers and white supremacist or far-right militant groups undermine public trust in law enforcement.

The erosion of that trust compounds policing issues overall, making officers less effective at providing public safety, said former FBI special agent Michael German, who is now a fellow with the Brennan Center for Justices Liberty and National Security Program.

White supremacy in the United States, through its history, has been enforced by people with badges. So people with badges today have to accept that history to understand how their actions today are perceived, German said.

A recent nationwide survey conducted by The Marshall Project and political scientists at Texas Christian University and Tulane University found nearly half of the 500 sheriffs who completed their survey agreed with CSPOAs core claim that a sheriffs authority within their county supersedes that of the state or federal government.

In Arizona, a previous AZCIR investigation revealed that more than half of the states 15 county sheriffs are at least partially aligned with some of the primary ideologies of the so-called constitutional sheriff movement, with at least four of them having direct ties to either CSPOA or another Arizona-based constitutional sheriff group, Protect America Now.

CSPOA was denied approval in 2021 to provide continuing education credit training by Arizonas law enforcement certifying agency, the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. But a recent rule change now leaves such decisions about which training officers and deputies receive to sheriffs and other agency heads.

In Texas, operating under a similar rule, more than 20% of the states elected sheriffs have attended CSPOA trainings, according to a recent NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth investigation.

And in Illinois, about 80% of the states sheriffs have spoken out against the states assault weapons ban, most citing their constitutional duty to not enforce a law they say violates residents Second Amendment rights  statements pulled directly from the CSPOA playbook.

People become law enforcement officers and their very specific duty is to enforce the laws, not to make laws, not to litigate laws, not to determine what they think is a real legitimate law versus an illegitimate law that has already been determined under the Constitution, said Rachel Goldwasser, a research analyst for the Southern Poverty Law Center. The fact that there seems to be an increase in these law enforcement officers that say that theyre not going to perform their own duties  thats a problem.

Since CSPOA was founded in 2011, Mack has faced criticism for sharing the stage with known antisemites, white supremacists and militia members. He has consistently denied embracing or promoting their ideologies, going so far as to include an example in his lectures that depict a scenario in which a fictional constitutional sheriff would stand up for Rosa Parks.

But the promotion of Bushman to CEO, while adding advisory board members such as Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf from Michigan, an outspoken election denier with known affiliations to another anti-government group, and self-proclaimed Constitutional attorney Michael Peroutka, who has ties to a neo-confederate organization, are telling.

Bushmans Liberty News Radio actively promotes white nationalism by syndicating Political Cesspool, according to Goldwasser, who said it provides a megaphone to the whos who in white supremacist movements.

Additionally, Bushmans personal show, Liberty Roundtable, has provided a platform to a range of anti-government figures, including Oath Keeper founder Stewart Rhodes the night before the Jan 6. insurrection. In November, Rhodes was found guilty of seditious conspiracy and other offenses in connection with the storming of the Capitol  a sentencing Bushman and Mack both railed against.

Bushman wrote in an emailed response that he invites various types of people to speak on his show because of his belief in the First Amendment. He did not respond to characterizations about his show discussing anti-LGBTQ topics or the syndicated program, Political Cesspool, stating instead that he believed AZCIR reporting to date included disingenuous fabrications that did not represent his or CSPOAs views.

Rural Michigan sheriff Leaf, one of four sitting sheriffs appointed to the new advisory board, was part of the vanguard of CSPOA sheriffs attempting to investigate widely debunked allegations of election fraud from the 2020 election. By the end of 2022, he became the subject of a probe by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel into accusations that he played a role in activists illegally accessing voting equipment in an attempt to find evidence of fraud.

Leafs new status with CSPOA also provides a direct link to the National Liberty Alliance, a group labeled as an anti-government sovereign citizen organization by the Southern Poverty Law Center. The National Liberty Alliances website disputes the characterization, citing differences between its anti-government stances and those of sovereign citizens, who believe they are exempt from the authority of the U.S. government.

The most important name on the list of advisory board members, however, is Peroutka, according to Devin Burghart, president and executive director of the Institute for Research and Education on Human Rights, an organization that tracks far-right movements.

Burghart explained that the presence of Peroutka on the board was a clear demonstration of the organization no longer trying to hide their far-right connections, but trying to institutionalize them.

Peroutka, a staple at major CSPOA events, was the Republican nominee for Attorney General of Maryland in 2022 and was previously a member of the League of the South, a neo-confederate, white supremacist group advocating for southern secession. He is also the co-founder of the Institute on the Constitution, which provides an interpretation of the Constitution through an American View of law and government based on three core principles: there is a God; U.S. citizens rights come from this God; and the purpose of civil government is to secure and protect our God-given rights.

We will be working on implementing more and more of Michaels training as an extension of the in-person training that we start with, Bushman said on a January broadcast of Liberty Roundtable with Peroutka as a guest.

During the show, Peroutka shared his vision of a situation in which the training he and CSPOA provide to sheriffs and deputies could then be adapted by those agencies to educate county residents in broader efforts to raise the level of constitutional understanding among citizens.
A transformative project dedicated to entrepreneurship in the Greenwood District moved closer this week to getting out of the ground.

The Tulsa Development Authority on Thursday OKd schematic design plans for the rehabilitation of the historic Morton Health Center. The former hospital complex on TDA-owned property at 660 E. Pine St. will be converted into the roughly $9 million Greenwood Entrepreneurship Incubator @ Moton (GEIM).

The Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) will purchase the property from TDA and will redevelop it, said Rose Washington-Jones, CEO of the TEDC.

The center will replace a dilapidated building that has sat vacant for years.

When you look at all of the assets in that immediate area and you see that eyesore sitting there, boarded-up, with so much history  it will mean an enormous amount to the community and the city to bring that asset into use, Washington-Jones said. Theres just such history and such vibrancy and just a spirit of Greenwood that still lives there that we have to bring back to life.

The original Moton, a municipal hospital, opened in 1932 as a replacement for the Maurice Willows Red Cross Hospital, which had begun serving patients at 314 N. Hartford Ave. in the wake of the destruction of Black Wall Street. Moton was named for Robert Russa Moton, an African-American educator and second superintendent of the renowned Tuskegee Institute.

After Moton briefly closed in the late 1960s, it reopened as a clinic, and two other buildings were added to the small complex over the next decade. The name was changed in 1983 to honor Dr. W.A. Morton, a local physician. In 2006, operations transferred to a new 60,000-square-foot clinic less than a half-mile away at 1334 N. Lansing Ave., Morton Comprehensive Health Services.

I am eager to bring this entrepreneurship hub to life in north Tulsa as we make available the tools we have as a city to make this a reality, Mayor G.T. Bynum said in a statement. This hub will provide a dynamic space for innovators and entrepreneurs and will soon further provide opportunities for many Tulsans, especially those who live and work in our north Tulsa community.

The city, PartnerTulsa (also known as Tulsa Authority for Economic Opportunity) and TDA announced plans in May 2021 to provide $4 million to support the incubator, which ultimately was approved by the Tulsa City Council.

Im excited for the impact and essential support GEIM will provide to north Tulsans to help rebuild the legacy of Black Wall Street, District 1 City Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper said in a statement. This will serve as a space that provides an opportunity for Black small businesses to produce prosperous entrepreneurs and accelerate economic opportunity within our community.

The $4 million budget amendment includes:

$2.5 million to redevelop the historic hospital;

$500,000 to support the launch of business accelerator programming and courses; and

$1 million to seed the Build Tulsa Fund, a pool of financial resources for businesses participating in GEIM, MORTAR and other programs for under-resourced entrepreneurs building in north Tulsa.

The incubator will have a basement and three floors. On the first will be offices, a lounge, media room and work stations. A large conference room, offices and a kitchenette will sit on the second floor. The top floor will feature a 40-person event space, work stations and a flex conference room.

Locally based KKT Architects is overseeing the design. The firm will provide construction plans once a decades-old addition to the building has been razed and a forensic examination conducted, Barry Goldstein of KKT Architects said Thursday. The original hospital layout encompasses about 9,000 square feet, he said.

In a perfect world, hopefully by this time or the spring of summer of next year, this will be up and running, Goldstein said.

Kian Kamas is executive director of TAEO.

Just to have a physical location for entrepreneurs and small businesses to gather and have the opportunity to collide and exchange ideas, thats something that at least at this scale doesnt exist in this part of the city, she said. Weve seen with investments like 36 Degrees North the impact that that can have for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The last time Tulsans considered how Moton could be reimagined was when a Booker T. Washington alum and retired oil industry engineer proposed a $21 million project. After being batted around for about four years, the proposal for a mixed-use development at the site languished.

I talk a lot about how excited I am about the Laura Dester project, but this is also next in line, Kamas said. For so long, we have had these historic buildings that have just been sitting there, boarded up, not adding any value to the neighborhoods. Not only will the asset, itself, be a direct benefit to small businesses and entrepreneurs, but it also will help, we think, create a center of gravity for spurring additional development in that neighborhood.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 27)  Camarines Sur 2nd District Rep. LRay Villafuerte on Monday called on his colleagues in the Senate to be more open about the proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution that aims to attract more foreign investors for economic growth.

We appeal to members of the Senate to have an open heart and mind about this issue, he told CNN Philippines The Source.

The House constitutional amendments panel approved last week a Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) which calls for a constitutional convention (con-con) pushing for charter change, or cha-cha.

While there is overwhelming support at least at the House committee, this does not seem to be the case in the upper chamber, Sen. Bato dela Rosa said last Thursday.

Villafuerte said if the senators have concerns about the con-con possibly abolishing the upper chamber, they should not be concerned about it since this is not part of the plan.

He also said this is the perfect time to tackle the proposed amendments than to push it until the midterm elections. This is to prevent the perception of cha-cha being used to prolong the term of government officials.

This happened during the administrations of former presidents Fidel Ramos, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and Rodrigo Duterte, he said.

For us, we are very positive, if we push it this early, theres less suspicion that anyone will extend their term limits, Villafuerte said.

The lawmaker reiterated that what the proponents want is to focus on amending the economic provisions of the Constitution to attract more foreign investments, especially for the agriculture sector.

While cha-cha could cost the government 8 billion to 10 billion, Villafuerte said it will be very much worth it because 8 billion to 10 billion, even more, will redound to $8 billion to $10 billion in investments.

Villafuerte said the funds can be sourced from the national budget.

The government also will be able to save more if the election of the members of the constitutional convention is held simultaneously with the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls in October, he added.
Even if it sometimes felt like it, Marquess Dennis knew his four-year sentence wasnt going to last forever.

Eventually, hed be walking out of prison.

So to make sure he had a future then, he needed to start planning now.

I had a choice to make, the Tulsan said. And the way I saw it, there were basically two options.

One, Dennis knew, was what had landed him behind bars in the first place  the illegal drug business. He could always go back to it.

But there was another option, he said. And this one seemed to offer a much more hopeful future.

Dennis recalled how it started: I prayed to God one day, and I said, Why on earth would you send me to prison? And the answer surprised me. It was, Well, where else are you going to get 1,500 men to interview?

Dennis had always wanted to do something to help men be better fathers, and suddenly he saw prison as an opportunity to develop the idea.

I started to interview everyone on that (prison) yard, Dennis said. Tell me what your favorite part about being your fathers son was? And based on the answers, I started to see the patterns.

I still start my podcast to this day with that question, he said.

Dennis served out his time and went on to found Birthright Living Legacy, a nonprofit organization that promotes better fatherhood by equipping men with the tools and resources they need.

Born out of his life experiences and time in federal prison, the effort continues to grow and receive attention. Most recently, it was from Gov. Kevin Stitt, who gave Dennis a shout out in his State of the State address Feb. 6 when discussing the problem of absent fathers.

Noting that 1 out of every 4 kids in America is living without a father in the home, Stitt praised Dennis as somebody who is doing something about it.

Dennis goal for Birthright is to become a one-stop shop of sorts for fathers, providing support, counseling and other services in an effort to break negative parenting cycles.

Efforts so far include hosting community events and workshops designed to improve parent-child relationships.

Dennis said: We want to nurture and create these safe places for community where everyone is starting on the same footing, which is: We love our kids, and were trying to figure out ways that we can be better.

For men, recognizing that they need help is one thing, he said. Asking for it is another.

With a man, through our societys way of raising men up, to ask for help is actually saying, I am defeated. I dont know what Im doing, he said.

Thats something Dennis wants to change.

Bad influences

The absence of a father earlier in life is where a lot of Dennis problems began, he said.

As a child, he never knew his father. For years at home, it was just his mother and sister.

At 21, when he became a father himself, he had no real idea how to be a good one.

Moreover, the male influences in Dennis life had not been the best.

Most of the men in my life were either drug users or drug dealers, he said.

Their lifestyle had its appeal. They seemingly had what it was that I was looking for, which is to not be poor, and they had a ton of friends, and they had lady friends.

Dennis first turned to dealing as an adult after a series of tough breaks.

It started when he was injured in a car accident. He missed a lot of time from his job as a welder and eventually was fired.

With the rent, child support payments and other expenses mounting, Dennis felt hopeless and overwhelmed, he said.

At first, his drug distribution started small. But hed seen dealers do well before and recognized the potential, he said. It evolved into a business.

By this time, Dennis had envisioned someday starting a place where fathers could go for help.

This was something I was going to do years from now, like after I was rich, he said.

Justifying the drugs as a way to help pay for his dream, he turned to a Mexican cartel to help expand.

Id already done the math. I would have made a million dollars in less than 30 days, he said. Luckily for me, I was busted on the very first transaction.

If I would have started this with drug money, it would have been a horrible, horrible thing for everyone involved.

Gods call

Convicted on counts of possession and intent to distribute, Dennis was sent to federal prison in Colorado.

It was a turning point for him.

That was my time to regroup  to say, Well, what am I going to do differently with my life? Everything that Id done had culminated to me landing there.

So I decided: OK, Im going to answer Gods call and do something better with my life.

The result was Birthright Living Legacy.

Today, at 42 years old and six years removed from prison, Dennis has come a long way.

He has a good relationship with his father. The two finally met when Dennis was in his teens.

Its taken a long time, but its become a positive relationship, he said.

In addition, Dennis has four children of his own now. Those relationships are also works in progress but hold lots of promise, he said.

Having parented his organization through the early stages, Dennis plans are not small.

They include building a center for the organization that can house expanded programs, camping retreats and conferences while also providing a safe visitation option for fathers who dont live with their children to spend time with them.

From Tulsa, he would like to see such centers spread across the country, meeting the needs of fathers everywhere.

My most important thing is to tell the fathers that you matter, your position matters, Dennis said. And whether you live in the home, whether youre not in the home, whether youre in prison, you still have value to your children.

We can help you be a better father. You just have to ask.

Related:
Teachers of the Year: Catoosa, Sand Springs and Union have selected their 2022-23 Teacher of the Year honorees.

Catoosa Teacher of the Year Ashley Fagala, a second grade teacher at the Helen Paul Learning Center, has been teaching for 18 years, including nine at Catoosa.

Sand Springs Teacher of the Year Jessica Sprague, an engineering teacher at Charles Page High School, has been a teacher for 12 years, including six with the Sand Springs district.

Union Teacher of the Year Tina Vollmer, a special education teacher at Jarman Elementary School, has been teaching for 20 years, with the last 10 at Union.

Now hiring: Broken Arrow Public Schools is hosting a teacher job fair from 2-5 p.m. Tuesday in the lobby and board room of the districts Education Service Center, 701 S. Main St.

Bartlesville and Owasso are both hosting job fairs on Saturday. Bartlesvilles is scheduled for 8:30-11 a.m. in the Bartlesville High School cafeteria commons area and is specifically for teachers. Owassos is scheduled for 8-11 a.m. at the districts Education Service Center, 1501 N. Ash St., and principals will be on hand to meet with interested teachers, counselors, speech pathologists and psychologists.

School board appointment: At Monday nights meeting, Bartlesville Public Schools Board of Education appointed Jason Sauer to fill the vacant District 4 seat through the 2024 election cycle. The seat was vacated on Jan. 19 with the resignation of Kevin Sitton due to his familys moving out of state.

FAFSA Help: Tulsa Public Schools will host a session to support families in filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Parent Resource Center, 525 E. 46th St. North. The event is free and open to families of all TPS seniors.

Emergency certification count: At Thursdays meeting, the Oklahoma State Board of Education approved 92 emergency teacher certifications without discussion or debate. Since the start of the fiscal year on July 1, the board has approved 3,990 emergency teaching credentials.

Looking for littles: Bartlesville Public Schools six elementary schools will host prekindergarten roundup events at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday for families of children who will be 4 years old by Sept. 1.

Additionally, online early enrollment registration opens Wednesday for Unions 3-year-old, prekindergarten and kindergarten programs. Children must be 3 by Sept. 1 and live within Unions attendance area to be eligible for the districts full-day early childhood program at Rosa Parks Early Childhood Education Center, operated in cooperation with Community Action Project-Tulsa County.

Stay home day: Friday is a previously scheduled distance learning day for Catoosa and Jenks.

COVID-19 by the numbers: Three districts had published updated COVID-19 case counts by the close of business Friday.

Bartlesville Public Schools had two reported cases among students and staff.

Berryhill Public Schools had one reported case among students and staff.

Tulsa Public Schools had two reported cases among students and staff.

Skiatook Public Schools had not publish an update by the close of business Friday.

Bixby, Broken Arrow, Catoosa, Claremore, Collinsville, Coweta, Glenpool, Jenks, Kiefer, Liberty, Mounds, Owasso, Sand Springs, Sapulpa, Sperry, Union, Verdigris and Wagoner are not publishing updated case counts at this time.

School board schedule: The boards of education for Catoosa, Tulsa and Woodland public schools and Tulsa Tech are all scheduled to meet Monday.
Seven years ago today, former President Bill Clinton gave a stump speech for his wife, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, to some 800 supporters in the cafeteria of Washington High School.

A hoarse former President Bill Clinton first apologized for his voice, which occasionally trailed into a whisper, and then told a rowdy crowd why he felt Hillary Clinton was the best choice to be the countrys next commander-in-chief.

In north Tulsa, President Clinton said Hillary Clinton would build an inclusive economy that helps small businesses, young people burdened by student loans and minorities rise up, as well as keep the country safe and secure.

The former president's appearance was just days ahead of Oklahoma's 2016 primary, among a dozen states part of "Super Tuesday." The state chose Bernie Sanders on the Democrats' side, and Ted Cruz on the Republican side.
Canada is a potential market for Vietnams textile and garment exports thanks to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), said Dang Thai Thien, deputy head of the Supervision and Management Division under the Ho Chi Minh City Customs Department. Canada eliminated a majority of import duties for Vietnamese textile and garment products as soon as the CPTPP came into force between them in 2019 and will remove all the tariff lines this year. The CPTPP is a free trade deal among Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam. It came into effect on December 30, 2018 in the first six countries: Canada, Australia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and Singapore. The accord entered into force between Canada and Vietnam on January 14, 2019, and on September 19, 2021 for Peru. After four years, Vietnamese enterprises still have room to take advantage of the agreement and expand markets, especially new ones such as Canada. According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, textiles and garments accounted for the largest proportion of Vietnams exports to Canada last year. In particular, Vietnam exported US$1.3 billion worth of apparel products to the North American country in 2022, surging 40.3 percent over 2021 and accounting for 20.7 percent of Vietnams total export value in Canada. The Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association late last year estimated Vietnams textile and garment export value at $44-44.5 billion in 2022, meaning that the Canadian market made up a small proportion of Vietnams exports. At a seminar on the CPTPP in mid-February, Thien said Vietnams exports constitute nearly two percent of Canadas imports. Thus, the potential to ship products to this market is huge. However, opportunities are not available forever, Thien stressed, urging Vietnamese enterprises to quickly grasp those ushered in by the free trade accord. He added that Canada is negotiating with other ASEAN countries for their free trade agreements. Canada takes initiative in seeking Vietnamese partners Pham Quang Anh, CEO of Dony Garment Company, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that enterprises pay great attention to pricing. Enterprises need free trade agreements to win big contracts, Anh said. However, to meet origin requirements as stated in the CPTPP, some Vietnamese textile and garment enterprises like Dony have to change input materials, which may cause them to lose competition advantages to rivals, especially China. Anh has recently learned about the CPTPP after many Canadian customers contacted him. I felt strange at first as my company had no such customers earlier. However, I later found that they contacted me due to special incentives in the CPTPP, Anh said. According to statistics from the Canadian government, its exports to other members of the CPTPP rose 22 percent in 2021-22. Pirkko Penttila, Canada's regional coordinator for CPTPP issues, said ASEAN is a core market of Canadas Indo-Pacific Strategy. Canada has inked FTAs [free trade agreements] with some members of the CPTPP, such as Mexico, Chile, and Peru. However, the CPTPP also includes newly-emerging parties that change the situation, such as Vietnam, Penttila noted. According to the coordinator, the trade deal helps facilitate the access to preferential markets of Asia-Pacific countries. Vietnam often considers the deal as the removal of tariff lines, but it is more than that. The CPTPP features all sectors and aspects of trade to eliminate obstacles to trade activities, creating a fair, transparent, and consistent environment for parties, Penttila added. She affirmed that Canada attaches great importance to its ties with Vietnam, its largest trade partner in Southeast Asia. Boosting the trade relations between the two countries is more meaningful as they will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Canada is a potential market for Vietnams textile and garment exports thanks to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), said Dang Thai Thien, deputy head of the Supervision and Management Division under the Ho Chi Minh City Customs Department.

Canada eliminated a majority of import duties for Vietnamese textile and garment products as soon as the CPTPP came into force between them in 2019 and will remove all the tariff lines this year.

The CPTPP is a free trade deal among Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.

It came into effect on December 30, 2018 in the first six countries: Canada, Australia, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, and Singapore. The accord entered into force between Canada and Vietnam on January 14, 2019, and on September 19, 2021 for Peru.

After four years, Vietnamese enterprises still have room to take advantage of the agreement and expand markets, especially new ones such as Canada.

According to the General Department of Vietnam Customs, textiles and garments accounted for the largest proportion of Vietnams exports to Canada last year.

In particular, Vietnam exported US$1.3 billion worth of apparel products to the North American country in 2022, surging 40.3 percent over 2021 and accounting for 20.7 percent of Vietnams total export value in Canada.

The Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association late last year estimated Vietnams textile and garment export value at $44-44.5 billion in 2022, meaning that the Canadian market made up a small proportion of Vietnams exports.

At a seminar on the CPTPP in mid-February, Thien said Vietnams exports constitute nearly two percent of Canadas imports. Thus, the potential to ship products to this market is huge.

However, opportunities are not available forever, Thien stressed, urging Vietnamese enterprises to quickly grasp those ushered in by the free trade accord.

He added that Canada is negotiating with other ASEAN countries for their free trade agreements.

Canada takes initiative in seeking Vietnamese partners

Pham Quang Anh, CEO of Dony Garment Company, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that enterprises pay great attention to pricing.

Enterprises need free trade agreements to win big contracts, Anh said.

However, to meet origin requirements as stated in the CPTPP, some Vietnamese textile and garment enterprises like Dony have to change input materials, which may cause them to lose competition advantages to rivals, especially China.

Anh has recently learned about the CPTPP after many Canadian customers contacted him.

I felt strange at first as my company had no such customers earlier. However, I later found that they contacted me due to special incentives in the CPTPP, Anh said.

According to statistics from the Canadian government, its exports to other members of the CPTPP rose 22 percent in 2021-22.

Pirkko Penttila, Canada's regional coordinator for CPTPP issues, said ASEAN is a core market of Canadas Indo-Pacific Strategy.

Canada has inked FTAs [free trade agreements] with some members of the CPTPP, such as Mexico, Chile, and Peru.

However, the CPTPP also includes newly-emerging parties that change the situation, such as Vietnam, Penttila noted.

According to the coordinator, the trade deal helps facilitate the access to preferential markets of Asia-Pacific countries.

Vietnam often considers the deal as the removal of tariff lines, but it is more than that.

The CPTPP features all sectors and aspects of trade to eliminate obstacles to trade activities, creating a fair, transparent, and consistent environment for parties, Penttila added.

She affirmed that Canada attaches great importance to its ties with Vietnam, its largest trade partner in Southeast Asia.

Boosting the trade relations between the two countries is more meaningful as they will celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
In recent years, a number of South Koreans have visited Vietnam in the hope of alleviating the wounds of war. They have built schools, funded scholarships, and planted trees in a bid for peace and forgiveness. "We did not come to Vietnam to remember the heartbreaking events of the past," said South Korean lawmaker Kang Min Jung in a speech on February 14 in front of the Ha My memorial, a monument dedicated to the victims of the 1968 Ha My Massacre in Ha My Village, Dien Duong Ward, Dien Ban Town, Quang Nam Province. "We came to better understand to the truth of what our ancestors experienced. "For us and for many other South Koreans, it is extremely important to learn the truth. "After understanding this truth, we can then show our sympathies and reach out to the relatives of the dead victims. "We would like to share in the suffering that they have endured for years." A message of peace Kang, who made the journey to Ha My with 36 other South Koreans, said that knowing her countrymen were responsible for the deaths of so many, including newborn victims, is unspeakably upsetting even though she herself took no part in the massacre. "It hurts my soul that so many Vietnamese people had to suffer beyond their strength," Kang said. "We come here to apologize for our [countrys] past wrongdoings, for something that should never have happened. With these trips, we hope to alleviate the suffering of the relatives of those who died in wartime." On January 25, 1968, troops from South Koreas Green Dragon Brigade slaughtered 135 villagers in Ha My  mostly the elderly, women, and children  before setting fire to the village. On February 15, 2023  55 years after the massacre  Kang and her group of 37 lawyers, students, and lawmakers returned to Ha My with gifts for the villagers and to pray over the gravestones of the 135 victims. While the wounds of history can never be forgotten, the South Korean visitors hoped their presence in Ha My would help to heal those who still suffer. Kang and her cadre are members of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation  a non-profit, non-governmental organization established in September 2016 to raise awareness and redress Korean wrongs during the war in Vietnam. As part of the group's work, they plan annual trips to Ha My and other villages which experienced similar horrifying devastation. When they are unable to make a trip, they work with local authorities to ensure that offerings are still made at local memorials. During this years trip to Ha My, the group was joined by 80 relatives of the victims. "It's so shameful to be here. I apologize, we apologize, to you who feel torn every spring and to those who have been lighting the incense sticks every day for 55 years," said Kim Chang Sup, head of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation delegation, as he read an apology letter at the Ha My memorial. Kim Chang Sup, a member of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation, burst into tears as he read an apology letter at a ceremony held to commemorate the victims of the Ha My Massacre. Photo: B.D. / Tuoi Tre Turning bomb holes into schools and parks Despite Ha Mys past, local residents have overcome the devastation in order to transform the area into a prosperous village, according to Nguyen Van Tuan, head of the Dien Duong Ward People's Committee. Some of their success in rebuilding is owed to organizations like the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation. Many years ago, an 'Apologies to Vietnam' movement developed in South Korea, inspiring many to visit Vietnam to make amends for the sins of their countrymen by constructing memorials, funding scholarships, and building playgrounds for local schools after South Korean media reported on the Ha My massacre and similar horrific events. Huyn Woo Kwon, head of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation, is the nephew of a South Korean who was stationed in Vietnam during the war, but it was not until South Korean media published reports on various massacres carried out by South Korean troops that he knew he needed to make amends for his country. "My uncle was so angry when I asked him questions about what South Korean troops had done in Vietnam," Kwon said. "I came to Vietnam because I wanted to seek the truth and right the wrongs committed during the war. In order to learn more about the role South Koreans played in Vietnam during the war, Huyn moved to Ho Chi Minh City for university and even had his first child in the country. He eventually began making trips to the sites of massacres in Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Binh Dinh Provinces in order to promote projects aimed at building schools and parks, as well as to visit the relatives of victims. His dedication to atoning for his countrys sins earned him much admiration from the Vietnamese locals and authorities he befriended during these trips. Eventually, they affectionately gave him the Vietnamese name 'Vu.' According to Vu, in addition to regular visits by dozens of intellectuals and students from South Korea, the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation has launched many meaningful projects in other massacre areas, including the construction of four parks at four schools in Binh Dinh and two more playgrounds for students in Dien Duong Ward. In 2020, the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation earmarked part of the cost for local authorities for building the Ha My memorial. During the foundations trips to the memorials, the South Korean group typically brings special gifts, including scholarships for low-income students and handwritten letters from South Korean students who want to apologize to Vietnam. "The suffering experienced by the Vietnamese was too great and cannot be repaired," Vu said. "We want to come here to take responsibility, hoping to comfort the relatives and the souls of the victims. "We try to do our best and want to contribute with parks and scholarships to nurture the dream of peace and development of today's generation of students." Kneeling in apology From February 12 to 14, 37 members of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Fundation visited sites in Quang Nam Province, which had been home to massacres carried out by South Korean soldiers. The group used their time in Quang Nam to burn incense at a local memorial and meet with families of the victims. On the morning of February 12, families and local authorities honored the 135 villagers who were killed 55 years ago in Tay Hamlet, Ha My Village. At the ceremony, 37 South Koreans, including lawyers, lawmakers, and students, knelt in apology to the people who currently live where the massacre took place. Kim Chang Sup, head of the delegation, read an apology letter which expressed regret for the actions of the South Korean army in Vietnam. Kim promised to do everything in his power to make up for his countrys wartime mistakes and alleviate the suffering of the villagers. "South Korea-Vietnam relations have both a light and dark side," said Kang Min Jung, South Korean lawmaker "The 'light side' is the dynamic exchange in various fields such as economy, culture, and society. "The 'dark side' is the action of South Korean troops during the war in Vietnam, which led to long-lasting pain. "We have come here to apologize for our wrongdoing, heal the wounds of war, and promote peace." Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

In recent years, a number of South Koreans have visited Vietnam in the hope of alleviating the wounds of war.

They have built schools, funded scholarships, and planted trees in a bid for peace and forgiveness.

"We did not come to Vietnam to remember the heartbreaking events of the past," said South Korean lawmaker Kang Min Jung in a speech on February 14 in front of the Ha My memorial, a monument dedicated to the victims of the 1968 Ha My Massacre in Ha My Village, Dien Duong Ward, Dien Ban Town, Quang Nam Province.

"We came to better understand to the truth of what our ancestors experienced.

"For us and for many other South Koreans, it is extremely important to learn the truth.

"After understanding this truth, we can then show our sympathies and reach out to the relatives of the dead victims.

"We would like to share in the suffering that they have endured for years."

A message of peace

Kang, who made the journey to Ha My with 36 other South Koreans, said that knowing her countrymen were responsible for the deaths of so many, including newborn victims, is unspeakably upsetting even though she herself took no part in the massacre.

"It hurts my soul that so many Vietnamese people had to suffer beyond their strength," Kang said.

"We come here to apologize for our [countrys] past wrongdoings, for something that should never have happened. With these trips, we hope to alleviate the suffering of the relatives of those who died in wartime."

On January 25, 1968, troops from South Koreas Green Dragon Brigade slaughtered 135 villagers in Ha My  mostly the elderly, women, and children  before setting fire to the village.

On February 15, 2023  55 years after the massacre  Kang and her group of 37 lawyers, students, and lawmakers returned to Ha My with gifts for the villagers and to pray over the gravestones of the 135 victims.

While the wounds of history can never be forgotten, the South Korean visitors hoped their presence in Ha My would help to heal those who still suffer.

Kang and her cadre are members of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation  a non-profit, non-governmental organization established in September 2016 to raise awareness and redress Korean wrongs during the war in Vietnam.

As part of the group's work, they plan annual trips to Ha My and other villages which experienced similar horrifying devastation.

When they are unable to make a trip, they work with local authorities to ensure that offerings are still made at local memorials.

During this years trip to Ha My, the group was joined by 80 relatives of the victims.

"It's so shameful to be here. I apologize, we apologize, to you who feel torn every spring and to those who have been lighting the incense sticks every day for 55 years," said Kim Chang Sup, head of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation delegation, as he read an apology letter at the Ha My memorial.

Kim Chang Sup, a member of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation, burst into tears as he read an apology letter at a ceremony held to commemorate the victims of the Ha My Massacre. Photo: B.D. / Tuoi Tre

Turning bomb holes into schools and parks

Despite Ha Mys past, local residents have overcome the devastation in order to transform the area into a prosperous village, according to Nguyen Van Tuan, head of the Dien Duong Ward People's Committee.

Some of their success in rebuilding is owed to organizations like the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation.

Many years ago, an 'Apologies to Vietnam' movement developed in South Korea, inspiring many to visit Vietnam to make amends for the sins of their countrymen by constructing memorials, funding scholarships, and building playgrounds for local schools after South Korean media reported on the Ha My massacre and similar horrific events.

Huyn Woo Kwon, head of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation, is the nephew of a South Korean who was stationed in Vietnam during the war, but it was not until South Korean media published reports on various massacres carried out by South Korean troops that he knew he needed to make amends for his country.

"My uncle was so angry when I asked him questions about what South Korean troops had done in Vietnam," Kwon said. "I came to Vietnam because I wanted to seek the truth and right the wrongs committed during the war.

In order to learn more about the role South Koreans played in Vietnam during the war, Huyn moved to Ho Chi Minh City for university and even had his first child in the country.

He eventually began making trips to the sites of massacres in Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Binh Dinh Provinces in order to promote projects aimed at building schools and parks, as well as to visit the relatives of victims.

His dedication to atoning for his countrys sins earned him much admiration from the Vietnamese locals and authorities he befriended during these trips.

Eventually, they affectionately gave him the Vietnamese name 'Vu.'

According to Vu, in addition to regular visits by dozens of intellectuals and students from South Korea, the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation has launched many meaningful projects in other massacre areas, including the construction of four parks at four schools in Binh Dinh and two more playgrounds for students in Dien Duong Ward.

In 2020, the Korea-Vietnam Peace Foundation earmarked part of the cost for local authorities for building the Ha My memorial.

During the foundations trips to the memorials, the South Korean group typically brings special gifts, including scholarships for low-income students and handwritten letters from South Korean students who want to apologize to Vietnam.

"The suffering experienced by the Vietnamese was too great and cannot be repaired," Vu said.

"We want to come here to take responsibility, hoping to comfort the relatives and the souls of the victims.

"We try to do our best and want to contribute with parks and scholarships to nurture the dream of peace and development of today's generation of students."

Kneeling in apology

From February 12 to 14, 37 members of the Korea-Vietnam Peace Fundation visited sites in Quang Nam Province, which had been home to massacres carried out by South Korean soldiers.

The group used their time in Quang Nam to burn incense at a local memorial and meet with families of the victims.

On the morning of February 12, families and local authorities honored the 135 villagers who were killed 55 years ago in Tay Hamlet, Ha My Village.

At the ceremony, 37 South Koreans, including lawyers, lawmakers, and students, knelt in apology to the people who currently live where the massacre took place.

Kim Chang Sup, head of the delegation, read an apology letter which expressed regret for the actions of the South Korean army in Vietnam.

Kim promised to do everything in his power to make up for his countrys wartime mistakes and alleviate the suffering of the villagers.

"South Korea-Vietnam relations have both a light and dark side," said Kang Min Jung, South Korean lawmaker

"The 'light side' is the dynamic exchange in various fields such as economy, culture, and society.

"The 'dark side' is the action of South Korean troops during the war in Vietnam, which led to long-lasting pain.

"We have come here to apologize for our wrongdoing, heal the wounds of war, and promote peace."

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
ROME -- At least 59 people died, including 12 children, when a wooden sailing boat carrying migrants to Europe crashed against rocks near the southern Italian coast early on Sunday, authorities said. The vessel, which sailed from Turkey and was carrying people from Afghanistan, Iran and several other countries, sank in rough seas before dawn near Steccato di Cutro, a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Calabria. The incident reopened a debate on migration in Europe and Italy, where the recently-elected right-wing government's tough new laws for migrant rescue charities have drawn criticism from the United Nations and others. Remains of a ship are seen along the beach where bodies of suspected believed to be refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italys Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters Manuela Curra, a provincial government official, told Reuters that 81 people had survived the shipwreck. Twenty of them were hospitalised, including one person in intensive care. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, who travelled to the scene, said 20-30 people might still be missing, amid reports from survivors that the boat had been carrying between 150 to 200 migrants. The vessel set sail from the western Turkish port of Izmir about four days ago and was spotted about 74 km (46 miles) off the Italian coast late on Saturday by a plane operated by European Union border agency Frontex, Italian police said. Patrol boats were sent to intercept it, but severe weather forced them to return to port, police said, adding that authorities then mobilised search units along the coastline. A baby aged only a few months was among those found washed up on the beach, ANSA news agency said. Rescuers arrive at the beach where bodies believed to be of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italy's Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters Emergency doctor Laura De Paoli described finding another dead child, aged seven. "When we got to the point of the shipwreck we saw corpses floating everywhere and we rescued two men who were holding up a child. Sadly, the little one was dead," she told ANSA. His voice cracking with emotion, Cutro's mayor, Antonio Ceraso, told the SkyTG24 news channel that he had seen "a spectacle that you would never want to see in your life ... a gruesome sight ... that stays with you for all your life". Wreckage from the wooden gulet, a Turkish sailing boat, was strewn across a large stretch of coast. One survivor was arrested on migrant trafficking charges, the Guardia di Finanza customs police said. Rescuers work at the beach where bodies of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italy's Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023, in this screen grab taken from a Reuters TV video. Photo: Reuters 'False prospect' of safety Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed deep sorrow for the deaths, and blamed human traffickers who profit while offering migrants "the false prospect of a safe journey". "The government is committed to preventing departures, and with them the unfolding of these tragedies, and will continue to do so, first of all by calling for maximum cooperation from the countries of departure and of origin," she said. Meloni's administration has said migrant rescue charities are encouraging migrants to make the dangerous sea journey to Italy, and sometimes work in partnership with traffickers. Charities strongly reject both accusations. Rescuers work at the beach where bodies of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italy's Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023, in this screen grab taken from a Reuters TV video. Photo: Reuters "Stopping, blocking and hindering the work of NGOs (non-governmental organisations) will have only one effect: the death of vulnerable people left without help," Spanish migrant rescue charity Open Arms tweeted in reaction to Sunday's shipwreck. However, the coast off Calabria has not been patrolled by NGO ships, which operate in the waters south of Sicily. That suggests they would have been unlikely to intercept the shipwrecked migrants regardless of Meloni's crackdown. The head of the Italian Catholic Church, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, called for the resumption of an EU search and rescue mission in the Mediterranean, as part of a "structural, shared and humanitarian response" to the migration crisis. A spokesman for the United Nations' International Organization for Migration (IOM), in the same vein, appealed on Twitter for the strengthening of rescue operations in the Mediterranean. Carabinieri officers work at the beach where bodies believed to be of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italys Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters Flavio Di Giacomo also called for the opening of "more regular migration channels" to Europe, and action to address what he said were the multiple causes pushing people to try the sea crossings. Earlier on Sunday, Pope Francis, the son of Italian migrants to Argentina and long a vocal advocate for migrants' rights, said he was praying for the shipwreck's victims. Italy is one of the main landing points for migrants trying to enter Europe by sea, with many seeking to travel on to richer northern European nations. But do to so, they must brave the world's most dangerous migration route. The United Nations Missing Migrants Project has registered more than 20,000 deaths and disappearances in the central Mediterranean since 2014. More than 220 have died or disappeared this year, it estimates.

ROME -- At least 59 people died, including 12 children, when a wooden sailing boat carrying migrants to Europe crashed against rocks near the southern Italian coast early on Sunday, authorities said.

The vessel, which sailed from Turkey and was carrying people from Afghanistan, Iran and several other countries, sank in rough seas before dawn near Steccato di Cutro, a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Calabria.

The incident reopened a debate on migration in Europe and Italy, where the recently-elected right-wing government's tough new laws for migrant rescue charities have drawn criticism from the United Nations and others.

Remains of a ship are seen along the beach where bodies of suspected believed to be refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italys Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters

Manuela Curra, a provincial government official, told Reuters that 81 people had survived the shipwreck. Twenty of them were hospitalised, including one person in intensive care.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, who travelled to the scene, said 20-30 people might still be missing, amid reports from survivors that the boat had been carrying between 150 to 200 migrants.

The vessel set sail from the western Turkish port of Izmir about four days ago and was spotted about 74 km (46 miles) off the Italian coast late on Saturday by a plane operated by European Union border agency Frontex, Italian police said.

Patrol boats were sent to intercept it, but severe weather forced them to return to port, police said, adding that authorities then mobilised search units along the coastline.

A baby aged only a few months was among those found washed up on the beach, ANSA news agency said.

Rescuers arrive at the beach where bodies believed to be of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italy's Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters

Emergency doctor Laura De Paoli described finding another dead child, aged seven.

"When we got to the point of the shipwreck we saw corpses floating everywhere and we rescued two men who were holding up a child. Sadly, the little one was dead," she told ANSA.

His voice cracking with emotion, Cutro's mayor, Antonio Ceraso, told the SkyTG24 news channel that he had seen "a spectacle that you would never want to see in your life ... a gruesome sight ... that stays with you for all your life".

Wreckage from the wooden gulet, a Turkish sailing boat, was strewn across a large stretch of coast.

One survivor was arrested on migrant trafficking charges, the Guardia di Finanza customs police said.

Rescuers work at the beach where bodies of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italy's Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023, in this screen grab taken from a Reuters TV video. Photo: Reuters

'False prospect' of safety

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed deep sorrow for the deaths, and blamed human traffickers who profit while offering migrants "the false prospect of a safe journey".

"The government is committed to preventing departures, and with them the unfolding of these tragedies, and will continue to do so, first of all by calling for maximum cooperation from the countries of departure and of origin," she said.

Meloni's administration has said migrant rescue charities are encouraging migrants to make the dangerous sea journey to Italy, and sometimes work in partnership with traffickers.

Charities strongly reject both accusations.

Rescuers work at the beach where bodies of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italy's Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023, in this screen grab taken from a Reuters TV video. Photo: Reuters

"Stopping, blocking and hindering the work of NGOs (non-governmental organisations) will have only one effect: the death of vulnerable people left without help," Spanish migrant rescue charity Open Arms tweeted in reaction to Sunday's shipwreck.

However, the coast off Calabria has not been patrolled by NGO ships, which operate in the waters south of Sicily. That suggests they would have been unlikely to intercept the shipwrecked migrants regardless of Meloni's crackdown.

The head of the Italian Catholic Church, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, called for the resumption of an EU search and rescue mission in the Mediterranean, as part of a "structural, shared and humanitarian response" to the migration crisis.

A spokesman for the United Nations' International Organization for Migration (IOM), in the same vein, appealed on Twitter for the strengthening of rescue operations in the Mediterranean.

Carabinieri officers work at the beach where bodies believed to be of refugees were found after a shipwreck, in Cutro, the eastern coast of Italys Calabria region, Italy, February 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters

Flavio Di Giacomo also called for the opening of "more regular migration channels" to Europe, and action to address what he said were the multiple causes pushing people to try the sea crossings.

Earlier on Sunday, Pope Francis, the son of Italian migrants to Argentina and long a vocal advocate for migrants' rights, said he was praying for the shipwreck's victims.

Italy is one of the main landing points for migrants trying to enter Europe by sea, with many seeking to travel on to richer northern European nations. But do to so, they must brave the world's most dangerous migration route.

The United Nations Missing Migrants Project has registered more than 20,000 deaths and disappearances in the central Mediterranean since 2014. More than 220 have died or disappeared this year, it estimates.
The viruses that infected two people in Cambodia with H5N1 avian influenza have been identified as an endemic clade of bird flu circulating in the country, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. The cases reported last week had raised concerns they were caused by a new strain of H5N1, clade 2.3.4.4b, which emerged in 2020 and has caused record numbers of deaths among wild birds and domestic poultry in recent months. But work so far suggests this is not the case. Preliminary genetic sequencing carried out in Cambodia led its health ministry to identify the viruses as H5 clade 2.3.2.1c, which has circulated in Cambodia among birds and poultry for many years and has sporadically caused infections in people, the CDC said in a statement on Saturday. "Yes, this is an older clade of avian influenza that had been circulating around the region for a number of years and while it has caused human infections in the past, it has not been seen to cause human-to-human transmission. However, that doesn't mean that the threat is any less," said Erik Karlsson, director of the National Influenza Center of Cambodia and acting head of virology at the Institut Pasteur du Cambodge, which sequenced the virus. He added that the response needed to be coordinated and swift to prevent any further spread and to limit exposure to any common source. An investigation into the source and to detect any additional cases is ongoing, the CDC said, adding that so far there had been no indication of person-to-person spread. Cambodia tested at least 12 people for the H5N1 strain last week, after an 11-year-old girl died from the virus in the first known transmission to humans in the country in nearly a decade. The victim's father, who was part of a group the girl had been in contact with in a province east of the capital Phnom Penh, tested positive for the virus but did not exhibit any symptoms, Cambodia's Health Minister Mam Bunheng had said in a statement on Friday. Only the girl's case has been sequenced and the father's case is still being worked on, Karlsson said. The World Health Organization said it is working with Cambodian authorities following the cases, describing the situation as worrying due to the recent rise in cases in birds and mammals. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

The viruses that infected two people in Cambodia with H5N1 avian influenza have been identified as an endemic clade of bird flu circulating in the country, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said.

The cases reported last week had raised concerns they were caused by a new strain of H5N1, clade 2.3.4.4b, which emerged in 2020 and has caused record numbers of deaths among wild birds and domestic poultry in recent months.

But work so far suggests this is not the case.

Preliminary genetic sequencing carried out in Cambodia led its health ministry to identify the viruses as H5 clade 2.3.2.1c, which has circulated in Cambodia among birds and poultry for many years and has sporadically caused infections in people, the CDC said in a statement on Saturday.

"Yes, this is an older clade of avian influenza that had been circulating around the region for a number of years and while it has caused human infections in the past, it has not been seen to cause human-to-human transmission. However, that doesn't mean that the threat is any less," said Erik Karlsson, director of the National Influenza Center of Cambodia and acting head of virology at the Institut Pasteur du Cambodge, which sequenced the virus.

He added that the response needed to be coordinated and swift to prevent any further spread and to limit exposure to any common source.

An investigation into the source and to detect any additional cases is ongoing, the CDC said, adding that so far there had been no indication of person-to-person spread.

Cambodia tested at least 12 people for the H5N1 strain last week, after an 11-year-old girl died from the virus in the first known transmission to humans in the country in nearly a decade.

The victim's father, who was part of a group the girl had been in contact with in a province east of the capital Phnom Penh, tested positive for the virus but did not exhibit any symptoms, Cambodia's Health Minister Mam Bunheng had said in a statement on Friday.

Only the girl's case has been sequenced and the father's case is still being worked on, Karlsson said.

The World Health Organization said it is working with Cambodian authorities following the cases, describing the situation as worrying due to the recent rise in cases in birds and mammals.

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A Vietnam Town is being developed in Udon Thani Province, which is home to the largest overseas Vietnamese community in Thailand. Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh and Thanadorn Phuttharaksa, mayor of Udon Thani City of the namesake Thai province, on Saturday visited the construction site of the project and inspected its progress. During the visit, Ambassador Thanh said the development of the Vietnam Town in Udon Thani is indispensable. The project is being jointly conducted by the Udon Thani authorities and Vietnamese-Thai people in the province. Udon Thani is currently home to more than 60,000 Vietnamese people. Vietnams late President Ho Chi Minh used to live there in the 1920s. Over the past 100 years, the Vietnamese-Thai people community has developed strongly and played an increasingly important role in Udon Thani. Therefore, the Vietnam Town project received the support of the local authorities. Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh (in blue jacket) and Thanadorn Phuttharaksa, mayor of Udon Thani City, visit the construction site of the Vietnam Town project. Photo: Vietnam News Agency The town, when in place, is expected to become a cultural hub of Vietnamese in the northeastern region of Thailand, attracting visitors, especially Vietnamese people living in Thailand and Laos, and tourists from Vietnam. In addition to the contributions of individuals and enterprises, the Udon Thani City authorities have spent three million baht (nearly US$86,0000) building and upgrading infrastructure in the town. Visiting the construction site of the Vietnam Town project in Alley 2, Si Suk Street in Udon Thani City, Ambassador Thanh and Udon Thani City Mayor Thanadorn discussed measures to speed up the progress of the project to put it into operation early. Thanh thanked Mayor Thanadorn and the administration of Udon Thani City for their support for the Vietnamese community in the province and the investment in the project. Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh and Thanadorn Phuttharaksa, mayor of Udon Thani City, attend a meeting as part of their visit to the construction site of the Vietnam Town project. Photo: Vietnam News Agency Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

A Vietnam Town is being developed in Udon Thani Province, which is home to the largest overseas Vietnamese community in Thailand.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh and Thanadorn Phuttharaksa, mayor of Udon Thani City of the namesake Thai province, on Saturday visited the construction site of the project and inspected its progress.

During the visit, Ambassador Thanh said the development of the Vietnam Town in Udon Thani is indispensable.

The project is being jointly conducted by the Udon Thani authorities and Vietnamese-Thai people in the province.

Udon Thani is currently home to more than 60,000 Vietnamese people. Vietnams late President Ho Chi Minh used to live there in the 1920s.

Over the past 100 years, the Vietnamese-Thai people community has developed strongly and played an increasingly important role in Udon Thani.

Therefore, the Vietnam Town project received the support of the local authorities.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh (in blue jacket) and Thanadorn Phuttharaksa, mayor of Udon Thani City, visit the construction site of the Vietnam Town project. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

The town, when in place, is expected to become a cultural hub of Vietnamese in the northeastern region of Thailand, attracting visitors, especially Vietnamese people living in Thailand and Laos, and tourists from Vietnam.

In addition to the contributions of individuals and enterprises, the Udon Thani City authorities have spent three million baht (nearly US$86,0000) building and upgrading infrastructure in the town.

Visiting the construction site of the Vietnam Town project in Alley 2, Si Suk Street in Udon Thani City, Ambassador Thanh and Udon Thani City Mayor Thanadorn discussed measures to speed up the progress of the project to put it into operation early.

Thanh thanked Mayor Thanadorn and the administration of Udon Thani City for their support for the Vietnamese community in the province and the investment in the project.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh and Thanadorn Phuttharaksa, mayor of Udon Thani City, attend a meeting as part of their visit to the construction site of the Vietnam Town project. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 27)  The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said Monday it has deployed search and rescue (SAR) teams with air and floating assets to look for a missing Taiwanese-flagged fishing vessel.

According to Taiwan's Fisheries Agency, the tuna longliner Sheng Feng No. 128 stopped transmitting signals at 2 a.m. on Feb. 18 while it was located 414 nautical miles northwest of Malakal Island in Palau.

One Taiwanese skipper and five Indonesian fishermen crew members from Yanpu port in Donggang Township, Pingtung County were on board the vessel.

The PCG's incident report said it has directed the coast guard districts of Eastern Visayas, Bicol, Southeastern Mindanao, Northeastern Mindanao, and Northeastern Luzon, to launch SAR operations.

The agency added that on Monday morning, its Aviation Force also dispatched a CESSNA Caravan 2081 to conduct aerial surveillance within the vicinity of waters of Eastern Visayas and Bicol regions to expand the operations.

PCG said there's a possibility the missing Taiwanese fishing vessel drifted towards the Philippines' eastern seaboard.

The United States has also helped in locating the fishing vessel through air surveillance but that yielded a negative result.

Eight Taiwanese fishing vessels and two Taiwan Coast Guard cutters are currently searching the vicinity of Palau waters.
Kyoto Prize Symposium, among this years most prestigious events, honors global contributors to technology, sciences and arts, in one-of-a-kind presentation series  free and open to the public

SAN DIEGO, February 27, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UC San Diego and Point Loma Nazarene University will host the 22nd Kyoto Prize Symposium to celebrate the 37th annual laureates of the Kyoto Prize, Japans highest private award for global achievement, during a unique series of commemorative events that are free and open to the public, March 15 to 17.

Click here, or visit https://kyotoprize-us.org/event-registration to reserve a seat at the Symposiums speaking events, featuring the latest Kyoto Prize laureates:

Technology: "Engineering Concepts Clarify Physical Law," by Dr. Carver Mead, Wed., March 15, 10:00-11:30 a.m.-PDT, at UC San Diego. Mead serves as Gordon and Betty Moore Professor of Engineering and Applied Science, Emeritus, at California Institute of Technology. He is renowned for pioneering contributions to the advancement of VLSI semiconductor technology, computer-aided design, and the revolutionary development of todays VLSI-based electronics industry.

Sciences: "Epidemiological and Evolutionary Dynamics of Pathogens in Time and Space," by Dr. Bryan T. Grenfell, Wed., March 15, 1:00-2:30 p.m.-PDT, at UC San Diego. Grenfell serves as Kathryn Briger and Sarah Fenton Professor of Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Public Affairs at Princeton University. He proposed phylodynamics as a new methodology to predict the infectious disease dynamics of RNA viruses by considering viral evolution, advancing our understanding of pandemic diseases like COVID-19.

Arts: "Indian Classical Music  Tradition and Beyond," by Dr. Zakir Hussain, Fri., March 17, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.-PDT, at UC San Diego. Hussain is a Grammy award-winning musician and master of the tabla, a percussion instrument dating back thousands of years. He is celebrated for opening new creative possibilities showcasing Indias traditional music in collaboration with other distinguished artists of diverse musical genres worldwide.

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For more information, click here or visit https://kyotoprize-us.org/about.

Photos: https://bit.ly/3XklxEQ / No password Credit: Courtesy of Inamori Foundation, UC San Diego

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(Christian Adams)

It is shaping up to be a make-or-break week for the Prime Minister. Should he succeed in gaining an agreement from all parties on the Northern Ireland Protocol, it will strengthen his hand and potentially lay the foundations for a turnaround in Conservative fortunes. If he fails, and the Tory Brexit wars reignite, it could render him only the latest Tory leader to be undone by Europe.

Rishi Sunak appears to have secured substantive concessions from the EU in addressing issues relating to the Protocol negotiated by Boris Johnson. First, a reduction in checks for goods moving from Britain to Northern Ireland, with those for export to the EU entering a red lane. Second on state aid regulations and third on the so-called democratic deficit, enabling a greater say for Stormont, albeit without removing the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.

Of course, agreement with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen does not guarantee a compliant parliamentary party, let alone the DUP. While Labour support means Sunak is guaranteed to win any vote, he will be hoping for more than a technical knockout.

There is a broader prize on offer too. Sorting this issue will enable the UK and EU to move on and address other deficiencies in the Trade and Co-operation Agreement, potentially helping to facilitate Britains entry into Horizon, the multi-billion pound science research programme. The Protocol required improvement and Parliament should support the deal if and when it comes before it.

A new dawn at Bank

The seven-year, 700 million transformation of Bank station has been a long time coming but is finally complete. New lifts, escalators, access and walkways have increased capacity at the station by 40 per cent. Todays official opening marked the final milestone in a fiendishly complex construction project that began in April 2016.

Anyone who has used Bank  or got lost in it  should appreciate the difference. Given its sheer size, the station, which alongside Monument serves four Tube lines and the DLR, may never prove the most straightforward of interchanges. But this redevelopment, one of the largest on the network, is an important moment for the Square Mile and the City as a whole as it continues to lead the pandemic recovery. London can never stay still.

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Aladdin Sane fever

If you have no idea what is in the charts but can remember David Bowies Aladdin Sane like it was yesterday, there is good news. The 50th anniversary of the legendary album is being celebrated with a series of events at the Southbank Centre.

Aladdin Sane: 50 Years will feature a two-month-long display, opening on April 6, featuring original artwork and a concert playing the 1973 record in full. Throw in the V&A exhibition and it is turning out to be a propitious year for Bowie fans.

To buy a print of this cartoon, visit here.
More acts are hoped to be revealed in the coming weeks (Image: PA)

A NUMBER of biggest names in the music industry have turned down invitations to play at the coronation of King Charles III.

A concert is to be held at Windsor Castle on May 7 following the ceremony at Westminster Abbey on May 6.

It has been reported that so far Adele, Elton John, Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran, Robbie Williams, and the Spice Girls have all declined an invitation to perform.

Last week, it was reported that Sheeran was first to say no.

It is understood the English chart-topper is to be performing in Texas the day before the concert.

Adele and Robbie Williams also turned down the invite citing similar reasons, with Elton John saying he would not be able to make it in time due to a concert in Germany.

A source close to the palace has said: Elton John was top of Charles list, but due to his European tour, which sees him performing in Germany the Friday before, then again soon after the Windsor concert, he isnt able to make the dash to the UK work."

READ MORE: What would Scotland look like if Scots saw the McCrone report?

The source added that organisers are working against the clock to pull together an exciting lineup in reaction to additional rejections.

Harry Styles and the Spice Girls have also said busy schedules hold them back from being able to perform.

Take That reportedly kept the date of May 7 free in their tour in case they were asked to perform and will be headlining the event.

They will join Kylie and Dannii Minogue, as well as Lionel Richie and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

More acts are hoped to be revealed in the coming weeks.

The biggest names and acts in world music are being approached for the concert, another source said.

If you draw up a list of the most popular acts in the world over the past 30 years, then they are all being considered."
'After years of plenty, this crisis is a shock'

Highlighting the needy, with Anthony Bernard.

My Smartphone has been upgraded and is now trying to steer me; my 16 year old iPhone only did what I asked! Epilepsy is when part of the brain grabs all the power, leaving other parts starved. Artificial intelligence steers news and social media based on previous personal choices, restricting other news and creating a form of community epilepsy. Poor Nicola Bulley had all the attention during a time, on average, when a hundred others would have gone missing. We need to treat the whole world in a balanced way.

Ash Wednesday, last week, marks the start of 40 days of reflection in the Christian calendar. Moslem Ramadan starts on 23rd March, Hindus celebrate Holi on 8th March, marking the triumph of good over evil. Spring is the time of year when most faiths reflect on what we do and how well we are doing it. Of course Australia is having autumn, but their sun rotates the other way!

Many readers may share my belief in the Creator God, who made "all things visible and invisible", the whole planet and everyone on it. Christian belief in a loving God leads to a conviction that everyone worldwide has the chance to recognise and honour the creator, even if only from observing mountains, rivers and plains as did early American tribes. So a spring period of reflection should not surprise us whatever our belief.

There is no point in worrying about things beyond our reach. Earthquakes, Ukraine, the Government and Trade Unions deserve attention, but we cannot do much about them. An American may say "I'm up to my rear in alligators"; the full text is "when up to your rear in alligators, it is hard to remember you really came to drain the swamp."

A personal disaster such as electricity being cut off could be called an alligator, catastrophic if not dealt with. Getting finances into balance can be likened to draining the swamp; once accomplished there will no more power cuts or alligators. When reacting to an immediate crisis, long term issues need attention as well.

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This is a time to put both spiritual and physical needs into perspective,. Too many may still have a cash shortfall, but fortunately there are people with enough surplus to support food banks and other charities, including the earthquake disaster. It was ever thus throughout history. The difference today is that we have had a very long period of plenty and sufficiency; this cost of living crisis comes as a shock.

Farmers are pressing to use pest control which is damaging to bees, but these are vital to pollinate flowers into fruit. Pesticides aren't needed on roses because blue tits happily chew insects. Wolves were reintroduced into the Yellowstone National Park to stop deer wiping out trees. The whole of nature is a delicate balance which we upset at our peril.

Families and neighbourhoods also have mutually dependent parts that need to work in harmony, local shops and supermarkets, traffic flow and parking, choices in family budgeting. Corned beef sandwiches were suggested at Christmas! Similar changes need consideration in this cost of living crisis.

We should act with thought for our neighbours and ourselves under the watchful eye of God's Heavenly Host, or the "planetary spirit" if you prefer!

Few of us can do much globally, but we are each of us a local part of a worldwide whole.
Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, founder and CEO of Marys Meals, pictured next to mugs similar to those used by children receiving Marys Meals. (Image: PA Picture Desk)

A charity is closing all of its shops and its warehouse in Glasgow after a decline in income.

Mary's Meals is closing its shop on Duke Street as well as in Troon, Lochgilphead, Inverkeithing, Dunblane and Oban.

The team said their loss in income coupled with rising costs contributed to the decision.

READ MORE: Protest group pulls banner stunt in Glasgow as energy prices set to surge

Daniel Adams, the executive director of Mary's Meals, said: "After much deep consideration, we have taken the very difficult decision to close our six charity shops and warehouse.

"In recent years there has been a steady decline of income from our shops  while the cost of operating them has continued to increase.

"This means that sadly the shops are no longer a viable source of income."

The charity was founded in 2002 by brothers Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow and his brother Fergus. When Magnus visited Malawi during a famine and met a mother dying from AIDS, he was inspired to bring much-needed food to the communities who needed it.

Mary's Meals went from feeding 200 children to over 2,500,000 in 2022.

It is intended for the shops to remain open until September and the team will update local communities on any changes.

READ MORE: Glasgow actor on her 'amazing' Two Doors Down role and new climate crisis play

Mr Adams continued: "Every day, more than 2.4 million children eat Marys Meals at school. We are always guided by good stewardship and ensuring that we can continue to feed these little ones  whilst striving to reach the next hungry child.

"We are so grateful for the dedication of our shop and warehouse staff and volunteers to growing Marys Meals within their local communities.

"Our expectation is that the shops will stay open until the end of September, and we will keep the local communities updated as our plans progress.

"We hope people in these communities will continue to support us in any way they can  their generosity is helping to feed desperately hungry children in the worlds poorest countries and, at a time when we are responding to the devastating earthquake in Syria, it has never been more needed."
FILE PHOTO: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak gets off his plane after his arrival on February 18, 2023 at the airport in Munich

By Elizabeth Piper

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's Rishi Sunak took a risk when he decided to hold talks on post-Brexit trade rules for Northern Ireland in secret, offering few details beyond reassurance to two political groups which have a history of making life hard for prime ministers.

Sunak saw secrecy as crucial to restoring trust with the European Union after relations were tested to breaking point under predecessors Boris Johnson and Liz Truss, who took a hard line and were accused of hurting talks by negotiating in public.

But it was secrecy that fostered suspicion among two big hitters in the years-long Brexit debate - the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Northern Ireland's biggest unionist party, and the pro-Brexit Conservative European Research Group (ERG).

With both groups saying they will now consider the detail of Monday's deal before offering a verdict, Sunak will hope the changes he has negotiated will overcome the sourness that has coloured the weeks-long build up to what he called a decisive breakthrough with the presentation of the "Windsor Framework".

"I am pleased to report that we have now made a decisive breakthrough, together we have changed the original protocol and are today announcing the new Windsor framework," Sunak told a news conference.

He said the deal would ease trade between Britain and Northern Ireland, firmly root the province's place in the United Kingdom and give lawmakers there a say in whether they must implement EU law, with London having a veto.

"I believe that today's framework addresses them (Northern Ireland's concerns) ... I believe that what we have achieved today is a real breakthrough."

The European Commission's president, Ursula von der Leyen, described the deal as an historic one which opened a "new chapter" in relations with Britain, praising "dear Rishi's" honesty in his dealings with the bloc.

'RATIONALITY IS BACK'

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The tone of their joint press conference in Windsor, close to the monarch's castle, was a world away from the icy readouts posted on Twitter after talks were held with officials in the Johnson and Truss administrations.

Then both former leaders had threatened to rip up the Northern Ireland protocol with legislation in parliament and their administrations had regularly criticised the EU for being overly legalistic and inflexible.

Sunak, since becoming prime minister in October, has instead moved to repair ties with the bloc, spurred on by the closer cooperation between London and Brussels over the Ukraine conflict.

Pressing pause on the Northern Ireland Protocol bill which would all but rip up the earlier agreement, he saw solving the Northern Ireland standoff as a concrete "win" for his administration which has struggled to establish itself.

An official who worked in Downing Street said several prime ministers had put the protocol in "the possible wins category", something concrete a leader could do if they found themselves under fire - and Sunak has found himself under pressure over everything from strikes to tackling illegal immigration.

Britain's opposition Labour Party is way ahead in the opinion polls and several lawmakers say they are now focusing on local issues to seize any chance of retaining their seat in a national election expected next year.

He won immediate praise from Brussels.

"Rationality is back," Bernd Lange, head of the trade committee in the European Parliament, said on Twitter. "Much appreciated Realpolitik of Sunak instead of the showmanship & tactical games of the past."

OPPOSITION AT HOME?

But Sunak still has to win over not only some of his lawmakers in the ERG, but more importantly the DUP. One insider said the unionists fear they are seeing a repeat of 2017 when they had to mount opposition against a deal they did not like.

Then former prime minister Theresa May was pressing on with negotiations with the EU when she was forced to pause discussions to take a call from then DUP leader Arlene Foster, who said her party could not support May's plan.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson, speaking before news of an agreement emerged, said they would take time to look at the details before deciding whether to accept it. The ERG has also said they would study the details.

Sunak has been speaking to the DUP, and also the ERG who say they will follow what the unionist party decides, but some have felt they have been cut out of the talks only to be asked for their opinions at the very end of the process.

"Im not opposed to him," said one Conservative Brexit-supporter. "I simply want him to do the right thing."

(Reporting by Elizabeth Piper; Editing by Kate Holton and Angus MacSwan)
Israel and the Palestinians have agreed to de-escalate tensions and "prevent more violence".

Palestinian and Israeli delegations met in Jordan on Sunday in an attempt to reduce tensions ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan which starts on 22 March.

In a joint statement, Israel agreed to halt new settlement approvals in the occupied West Bank for four to six months.

The representatives agreed to work towards a "just and lasting peace" and to meet again next month in Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt.

Egypt, Jordan and the United States, whose delegates also joined the meeting, said they consider the agreement "positive progress towards reactivating and deepening ties" between Israel and the Palestinians.

Jake Sullivan, the White House national security adviser, welcomed the commitments made by both sides, adding: "We recognise that this meeting was a starting point and that there is much work to do over the coming weeks and months to build a stable and prosperous future for Israelis and Palestinians alike."

An Israeli official said the parties will form a panel to examine restarting Israeli-Palestinian security coordination.

As the negotiators were meeting, a Palestinian gunman killed two Israeli brothers in the northern West Bank.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said soldiers were pursuing the attacker, and the military said it had blocked off the area.

"I ask, even when the blood is boiling, not to take the law into one's hands. I ask that the IDF and the security forces be allowed to carry out their work," Mr Netanyahu said.

It sparked retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers on houses and cars in which a 37-year-old Palestinian was shot dead, Palestinian officials said.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he held the Israeli government fully responsible for the attacks.

Hamas rejects outcome of talks

Hamas, the militant group that controls the Gaza Strip, rejected the outcome of the talks.

Story continues

A spokesman for the group, Dr Musa Abu Marzouq, said: "The talks have taken place to stop the escalation in two tracks: the first one is to postpone the Israeli measures relating to the colonial settlements and the second track is to give the PA more time to control the situation.

"If the PA cannot control the situation, the Israeli army may interfere then. We reject this move because it may create Palestinian internal conflict and because the PA entered these talks very weak.

"In brief, the PA should stand with the Palestinian people and condemn and stop the Israeli crimes."

Escalating violence

It came days after an Israeli military raid in a nearby Palestinian city killed 10 Palestinians, most of them militants. Two men over 60 were killed in the raid and a 66-year-old man died from tear gas escalation.

Violence between Israelis and Palestinians has surged since a spate of Palestinian attacks last spring, with Israel retaliating by stepping up raids across the West Bank.

More than 60 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank and east Jerusalem so far this year, according to the Associated Press.

Palestinian attacks against Israelis have killed 13 people this year.

Ramadan this year coincides with the weeklong Jewish holiday of Passover. Worshippers from both faiths are expected to flock to the holy sites in Jerusalem's Old City - which often become flashpoints for violence.
Company Logo

Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Polycythemia Vera Market Insight, Epidemiology and Market Forecast -2032" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Key Highlights:

In 2022, the market size of Polycythemia Vera was highest in the US among the 7MM accounting for approximately USD 1,500 million that is further expected to increase by 2032

PharmaEssentia's Besremi is the only approved as a first-line therapy at present, whereas Incyte's Jakafi is the only approved therapy in second-line setting

In March 2022, NCCN guidelines recommended Besremi as a recommended therapeutic option for the treatment of both high-risk and low-risk adults with polycythemia vera, we believe this could further accelerate physician adoptions and payer reimbursements.

Given the positioning of Besremi ahead of Jakafi in treatment guidelines, the drug is not a direct competitor for Jakafi. However, Protagonist Therapeutics' Rusfertide estimated to launch during late 2024, is expected to be competition for Besremi in first-line of treatment. Whereas, Imago Biosciences Bomedemstat is expected to compete with Jakafi in second-line post its entry in the US market by 2026.

Jakafi is expected to lose patent protection in mid-2028.

Besremi is being gradually included in private insurance and Medicaid coverage by some state governments. It has been also included in the US federal insurance (Medicare), which accounts for 54% of Polycythemia Vera patient insurance in the US.

Other emerging therapies such as Italfarmaco's Givinostat, Silence Therapeutics' SLN124, Ionis Pharmaceutical's Sapablursen, and Perseus Proteomics' PPMX-T003 have the potential to create a significant positive shift in the Polycythemia Vera market size.

This "Polycythemia Vera- Market Insights, Epidemiology and Market Forecast- 2032" report delivers an in-depth understanding of the Polycythemia Vera , historical and forecasted epidemiology as well as the Polycythemia Vera market trends in the United States, EU4 (Germany, Spain, Italy, and France) and the United Kingdom, and Japan.



Polycythemia Vera market report provides current treatment practices, emerging drugs, and market share of the individual therapies, current and forecasted 7MM Polycythemia Vera market size from 2019 to 2032. The report also covers current Polycythemia Vera treatment practice/algorithm and unmet medical needs to curate the best of the opportunities and assesses the underlying potential of the market.

Story continues

Geography Covered

The United States

EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom

Japan

Study Period: 2019-2032

Polycythemia Vera Disease Understanding and Treatment Algorithm



Polycythemia Vera Overview

Polycythemia Vera is a rare blood disease in which the body makes excessive red blood cells. The extra red blood cells make the blood thicker than normal Polycythemia Vera is the most common myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN), the ultimate phenotype of the JAK2 V1617F mutation. Polycythemia Vera shares in common with its companion MPN, essential thrombocytosis (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF), origin in a hematopoietic stem cell (HSC), constitutive activation of hematopoiesis with overproduction of morphologically normal blood cells, a tendency to extramedullary hematopoiesis, and transformation to bone marrow failure with myelofibrosis or acute leukemia, although at varying frequencies in each MPN, and JAK2 kinase mutation is behind the shared phenotypic features of all the above mentioned MPN's.



Many patients with Polycythemia Vera have no symptoms when they are diagnosed. Typically, these patients are identified following abnormal results from a routine full blood test for something else or some other blood-related disease. People at low risk of developing thrombosis are those aged below 60, with no history of thrombosis, and without other risk factors for cardiac diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or smoking.



Polycythemia Vera usually occurs at an elderly age, and patients are at a higher risk than the usual percentage, as they are more prone to the risks and other comorbidities. Possible risk factors of Polycythemia Vera include blood clots, splenomegaly, problems due to high levels of red blood cells, other blood disorders, etc.

Key Findings

This section provides glimpse of the Polycythemia Vera epidemiology in the 7MM

Country Wise-Polycythemia Vera Epidemiology

The epidemiology segment also provides the Polycythemia Vera epidemiology data and findings across the United States, EU4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain) and the United Kingdom, and Japan

The total prevalent cases of Polycythemia Vera in the 7MM comprised of approximately 309,000 cases in 2022 and are projected to increase during the forecasted period

The total prevalent cases of Polycythemia Vera in the United States were around 179,000cases in 2022

The United States contributed to the largest prevalent population of Polycythemia Vera , acquiring ~58% of the 7MM in 2022. Whereas, EU4 and the UK, and Japan accounted for around 32% and 10% of total population share, respectively, in 2022

Among the EU4 countries, Germany accounted for the largest number of Polycythemia Vera cases followed by France, whereas Spain accounted for the lowest cases in 2022

According to the publisher estimates, there were around 72, 000 cases of asymptomatic and 107,000 cases of symptomatic Polycythemia Vera in the United States in 2022. The prevalence is projected to increase during the forecasted period

In Japan, the prevalent Polycythemia Vera cases were around 13,000 in males and 7,000 in females in 2022

Polycythemia Vera Drug Chapters

Drug chapter segment of the Polycythemia Vera report encloses the detailed analysis of Polycythemia Vera marketed drugs and late stage (Phase-III and Phase-II) pipeline drugs. It also helps to understand the Polycythemia Vera clinical trial details, expressive pharmacological action, agreements and collaborations, approval and patent details, advantages and disadvantages of each included drug and the latest news and press releases.

Marketed Drugs



JAKAFI/JAKAVI (ruxolitinib): Incyte/Novartis

JAKAFI/JAKAVI (ruxolitinib) is an oral inhibitor of the JAK 1 and JAK 2 tyrosine kinases. It is approved for the treatment of adult patients with Polycythemia Verawho are resistant to or intolerant of hydroxyurea and for the treatment of disease-related splenomegaly or symptoms in adult patients with primary myelofibrosis (also known as chronic idiopathic myelofibrosis), post-polycythemia vera myelofibrosis or post-essential thrombocythemia myelofibrosis.

BESREMi (ropeginterferon alfa-2b): PharmaEssentia/AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals

BESREMi (ropeginterferon alfa-2b) is monopegylated proline interferon approved as first-line monotherapy in adults for the treatment of polycythemia vera without symptomatic splenomegaly; it is one of the first to be approved for the condition. It is a long-acting, monopegylated proline interferon developed using PharmaEssentia's novel pegylation technology platform. The drug has improved pharmacokinetic properties in clinical studies, including increased tolerability and convenience. BESREMi is designed to be self-administered subcutaneously with a pen once every 2 weeks or monthly during long-term maintenance. This treatment schedule is expected to improve overall safety, tolerability, and adherence compared to conventional pegylated interferons.

Emerging Drugs



Rusfertide (PTG-300): Protagonist Therapeutics

Rusfertide (PTG-300), which is being investigated by Protagonist Therapeutics, is a novel injectable synthetic mimetic of the natural hormone hepcidin that offers greater potency, solubility, and stability, which translates to better in vivo PK and PD characteristics and manufacturability in comparison to the natural hormone. Hepcidin is a key regulator of iron absorption, storage, and distribution in the body and thereby controls the production of red blood cells (RBC) and abnormal tissue storage of iron. Rusfertide provides substantial benefit to patients with erythrocytosis or abnormal tissue iron overload by managing hematocrit rapidly, sustained, and durable manner, thereby dramatically decreasing the need for therapeutic phlebotomy. Rusfertide was granted ODD and FTD by the US FDA for the treatment of Polycythemia Vera.

Bomedemstat (IMG-7289): Imago BioSciences

Bomedemstat is an orally bioavailable small molecule developed by Imago BioSciences that inhibits lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1 or KDM1A) - an enzyme vital in cancer stem/progenitor cells, particularly neoplastic bone marrow cells. LSD1 inhibition modulates the proliferation of malignant blood cells and therefore represents a viable therapeutic approach to treating Polycythemia Vera , an MPN characterized by the excessive production of red blood cells.

SLN124: Silence Therapeutics

SLN124 is a gene silencing therapy designed to temporarily block a specific gene's message that would otherwise trigger an unwanted effect. In this case, SLN124 aims to temporarily silence TMPRSS6, a gene that prevents the liver from producing a particular hormone that controls iron levels in the body called hepcidin. As hepcidin increases, iron levels in the blood are expected to decrease, which may increase the production of healthy red blood cells, thereby reducing anaemia.



Note: Detailed emerging therapies assessment will be provided in the final report.

Polycythemia Vera Market Outlook

Patients with Polycythemia Vera (Polycythemia Vera ), a myeloproliferative neoplasm characterized by an elevated red blood cell mass, are at high risk of vascular and thrombotic complications and have reduced quality of life due to a substantial symptom burden that includes pruritus, fatigue, constitutional symptoms, microvascular disturbances, and bleeding.



Therapeutic options in Polycythemia Vera are limited, and no cure is available; it can be managed effectively for a long time. Careful medical supervision and therapy are designed to reduce hematocrit and platelet concentrations to normal or near-normal value, control Polycythemia Vera -related symptoms, decrease the risk for arterial and venous thrombotic events and other complications, and avoid leukemic transformation. Current therapies prevent thrombosis/vascular events and delay transformation to myelofibrosis (MF) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Conventional therapeutic options aim at reducing vascular and thrombotic risk, with low-dose aspirin and phlebotomy as first-line recommendations for patients at low risk of thrombotic events and cytoreductive therapy (usually hydroxyurea or interferon alpha) recommended for high-risk patients.



The current market has been segmented accordingly into different commonly used therapeutic classes based on the prevailing treatment pattern across the 7MM, which present itself with minor variations in the overall prescription pattern. Cytoreductive therapy, JAK inhibitor, Interferons, Hepcidin mimetics, TMPRSS6 inhibitor and LSDI inhibitor are the major classes that have been covered in the forecast model.



The dynamics of the Polycythemia Vera market are currently changing as a consequence of the recent launch of ropeginterferon alfa-2b. The expected launch of new upcoming therapies and greater integration of early patient screening, medication in secondary care and other clinical settings, research on best methods for implementation, and an upsurge in awareness will eventually facilitate the development of effective treatment options. Key players such as Protagonist Therapeutics (rusfertide), Imago BioSciences (bomedemstat), Ionis Pharmaceutical (sapablursen), Silence Therapeutics (SLN124) and Perseus Proteomics (PPMX-T003), and others are evaluating their lead candidates in different stages of clinical development, respectively. They aim to investigate their products for the treatment of Polycythemia Vera .

Key Findings

This section includes a glimpse of the Polycythemia Vera in the 7MM market.

The total market size of Polycythemia Vera in the 7MM is approximately USD 1,800 million in 2022 and is projected to increase during the forecast period (2023-2032)

The market size in the 7MM will increase at a CAGR of 14% due to increasing awareness of the disease and launch of the emerging therapy

Among EU4 countries, Germany accounts for the maximum market size in 2022 while Spain occupies the bottom of the ladder in 2022

The market size of Polycythemia Vera in Japan is USD 100 million in 2022, which is expected to rise during the forecast period (2023-2032)

The United States Market Outlook

The total market size of Polycythemia Vera in the United States is expected to increase with a CAGR of 14% during the study period (2019-2032).

Polycythemia Vera Drugs Uptake

This section focuses on the rate of uptake of the potential drugs expected to get launched in the market during the study period 2019-2032. The analysis covers Polycythemia Vera market uptake by drugs; patient uptake by therapies; and sales of each drug. For example- Rusfertide (PTG-300), which is being investigated by Protagonist Therapeutics, is a novel injectable synthetic mimetic of the natural hormone hepcidin that offers greater potency, solubility, and stability, which translates to better in vivo PK and PD characteristics and manufacturability in comparison to the natural hormone. Hepcidin is a key regulator of iron absorption, storage, and distribution in the body and thereby controls the production of red blood cells (RBC) and abnormal tissue storage of iron.

Rusfertide provides substantial benefit to patients with erythrocytosis or abnormal tissue iron overload by managing hematocrit rapidly, sustained, and durable manner, thereby dramatically decreasing the need for therapeutic phlebotomy. Currently, the company is conducting a Phase III (VERIFY) study in patients with polycythemia vera. In June 2020, the US FDA granted Orphan Drug designation (ODD) to the rusfertide for the treatment of Polycythemia Vera. As per our analysis, rusfertide drug uptake in the US is expected to be medium-fast with a probability-adjusted peak share of 4.8% in the first line and 6% in the second line, years to peak would be 6 years.

Polycythemia Vera Pipeline Development Activities

The report provides insights into different therapeutic candidates in Phase III, Phase II, and Phase I stage. It also analyzes key players involved in developing targeted therapeutics.

Pipeline Development Activities

The report covers the detailed information of collaborations, acquisition and merger, licensing and patent details for Polycythemia Vera emerging therapies.

Scope of the Report

The report covers the descriptive overview of Polycythemia Vera , explaining its causes, signs and symptoms, pathogenesis and currently available therapies

Comprehensive insight has been provided into the Polycythemia Vera epidemiology and treatment

Additionally, an all-inclusive account of both the current and emerging therapies for Polycythemia Vera are provided, along with the assessment of new therapies, which will have an impact on the current treatment landscape

A detailed review of Polycythemia Vera market; historical and forecasted is included in the report, covering the 7MM drug outreach

The report provides an edge while developing business strategies, by understanding trends shaping and driving the 7MM Polycythemia Vera market

Report Highlights

In the coming years, Polycythemia Vera market is set to change due emerging therapies in the pipeline, and incremental healthcare spending across the world; which would expand the size of the market to enable the drug manufacturers to penetrate more into the market

The companies and academics are working to assess challenges and seek opportunities that could influence Polycythemia Vera R&D. The therapies under development are focused on novel approaches to treat/improve the disease condition

As per the analysis, the major types of Polycythemia Vera mutation include JAK2V617F and JAK2 exon 12

The report also encompasses other major segments, i.e., Total Prevalent Cases of Polycythemia Vera , Prevalent Population of Polycythemia Vera based on Symptoms, Gender-specific cases of Polycythemia Vera , Prevalence of Polycythemia Vera by Gene Mutation, Prevalence of Polycythemia Vera Based on Risk, and Age-specific Prevalence of Polycythemia Vera

Expected launch of potential therapies such as rusfertide (Protagonist Therapeutics), bomedemstat (Imago BioSciences), SLN124 (Silence Therapeutics), and sapablursen (Ionis Pharmaceutical), might change the landscape in the treatment of Polycythemia Vera

The US FDA-approved drugs, which are currently available, include JAKAFI and BESREMi.

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Protagonist Therapeutics

Imago BioSciences

Italfarmaco

Silence Therapeutics

Ionis Pharmaceutical

Perseus Proteomics

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/wla1pr-vera?w=12

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 27)  The Makati City government padlocked Smart Communications Inc. headquarters on Monday for its alleged 3.2 billion unpaid taxes and for operating without a valid business permit for four years.

"To date, Smart has failed to settle or obtain any relief from the courts over its franchise tax deficiency worth over P3.2 billion covering the period January 2012 to December 2015," the city government said in a statement.

In a closure order dated Feb. 23, the city government said Smart headquarters violated City Ordinance No. 2004-A-025  which imposes an annual fee for the issuance of a mayors permit to entities conducting business in the city.

Makati said Smart also refused to submit the requested breakdown of revenues and business taxes paid in all their branches nationwide despite the city governments request.

In an interview with CNN Philippines on Monday, Makati City administrator Claro Certeza said they could not issue a permit for Smart as the company did not pay its taxes.

"Pag hindi kayo nagbayad ng buwis, or hindi kayo nagbayad ng definciency tax at hindi nagbayad under protest, hindi kami magi-issue ng business permit sa inyo," he said on News Night.

[Translation: If you do not pay taxes or don't pay the deficiency tax and don't pay under protest, then we will not issue a business permit.]

Certeza added their "marching orders" from Mayor Abby Binay was for Smart to pay or the closure order would not be lifted.

The city administrator said Smart was now discussing the matter with the Makati City treasurer, however he was not privy to these meetings.

"Kami naman ay mag-iintay lamang kung ano ang magiging advice galing sa city treasurer at city legal officer," he said.

[Translation: We are just waiting what the city treasurer and city legal officer will say.]

In 2018, the telecommunications giant filed a petition for review before the Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC), seeking to nullify the Office of City Treasurers Notice of Assessment which alleged that the company owed the city government billions of pesos in franchise tax.

Smart previously argued that Makati has no jurisdiction to audit the companys financial statements and operations in other branches nationwide.

It added that it submitted all records related to its operations within the city and paid the necessary taxes.

In a statement released on Monday, a few hours after the closure, Smart said it has filed appropriate cases to resolve outstanding legal issues.

Our legal and tax teams continue to be in touch with the Makati LGU on the matters at hand, Smart's statement read.

The telecommunications firm also assured the public that services will remain available and accessible to their subscribers.

In 2022, the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) affirmed Makati RTC's decision granting the motion for production and inspection of the companys documents, Makati's statement said.

It added that the appeals court also said Makati has the authority to investigate Smarts entire operations under the Local Government Code.

Smart has yet to elevate the case to the Supreme Court.

Bad for business, subscribers

The closure of Smart headquarters is bad for business and its subscribers, a network of digital advocates said Monday.

Digital Pinoys National Campaigner Ronald Gustilo said it might take a toll on other businesses as well.

We are hoping that the subscribers will not be disadvantaged because of this issue, Gustilo said.

And are also hoping that this will not scare away investors and the business sector operating in Makati as it will have a ripple effect economically, which could be bigger than what Makati wants to get from Smart, he added.

Gustilo said Makati cant impose franchise tax to Smart as it is only payable to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
HCM CITY  Viet Nam and Poland both grow a lot of agricultural products, but they are complementary to each other, offering them the opportunity to tie up, a bilateral business matching heard in HCM City on February 24.

Nguyen Huu Nam, deputy director of the VCCI in HCM City, said: Poland has high demand for Vietnamese products such as rice, basa fish, shrimp, mango, pineapple, passion fruit, coffee, and cashew, while Poland is capable of supplying Viet Nam with various EU-standard fresh and processed foods and fruits, beef, lamb, pork and others.

Their trade and investment relations have made solid progress, but are still not commensurate with their traditional friendship and potential, partly due to the lack of information about each other's markets, he said.

Alexander Nowakowski, second secretary of Economic Affairs at the Polish embassy in Viet Nam, speaking at a press briefing held before the meeting, said after COVID many business delegations have come to each other markets to seek co-operation opportunities.

The EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement has also helped boost trade ties between the two countries.

Polands Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Lech Koakowski told the press briefing that his country is one of largest producers of food products such as pork, beef, chicken, fruits and vegetables, and dairy products in Europe, and exports them to more than 200 markets.

Polands foods not only have high quality, but are also are absolutely safe.

The Government of Poland is paying great attention to expanding export portfolios to Viet Nam, he said, adding that his ministry is now working with its Vietnamese counterpart for finalising procedures to allow Polish exporters of beef, goose and duck access to the Southeast Asian country.

He hoped that beef, duck, goose meat from his country would soon be available in Viet Nam.

At a meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Ha Noi on February 23, he asked that Viet Nam should also open up Polish barley and wheat, he said.

He said the agricultural products of the two countries do not compete with each other.

Viet Nam could become an important destination for the distribution of Polish agri-food products to the Asian region, and Poland is ready to do the same for Vietnamese products headed Europe, he said.

Executives from 70 Vietnamese food companies and eight Polish companies met and exchanged information to seek business opportunities at the business matching.  VNS
by Kieu Trinh

Translator Duong Tuong has passed away at the age of 91.

The slight wordsmith often appeared at gatherings of elite intelligentsia and colorful artists. But the fragile look hid a stubbornness who was tireless in working with words.

As the translator of more than 50 literary works of French, Russian, English, American, German, Greek, Brazilian, Japanese, and Norwegian writers, he was praised by generations of Vietnamese people as a messenger of international literature, who brought the magic of the world's most famous books to Vietnamese readers.

Thanks to Duong Tuong's diligent work, generations of Vietnamese have been fortunate enough to be able to read great works such as Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina, Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind, Albert Camus' The Stranger, Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights, The Tin Drum by Gunter Grass, and last but not least, Lolita by V. Nabokov.

Duong Tuong once said: Literary translation is a bridge connecting readers (including writers) who do not know foreign languages with the treasures of mankind's wisdom. And a passionate literary translator is someone who is voluntarily a kind of pipe to absorb and convey those essences to those who want to receive them, (Sweet as my coffee, Van Nghe Publishing House, 2010, Ngo Thi Kim Cuc).

Duong Tuong not only voluntarily assumed the responsibility of bringing the breath of world literature to Vietnamese readers, but also carried out the mission of a mediator for cross-cultural transfer with great effort and remarkable perseverance.

At the age of 88, he completed the translation into English of Truyen Kieu (The Tale of Kieu), a classic work of poetic stories by poet Nguyen Du, considered a monument to Vietnamese literature.

Asked how he, almost deaf and half blind, could read the poems with a length of 3,254 verses and translate them into English, he smiled and said: Truyen Kieu is already in my head. I just switched to English.

That means he memorised more than three thousand of those verses, and he only had to act as a "pipe" to "transmit" the immortal verses of the Vietnamese people into English.

For more than two and a half years, his fingers tapped at the keys, allowing him to complete the last work of his life, which he affectionately called the swansong.

Duong Tuong experienced turbulent periods of the country. He participated in the resistance against French colonialism three years after it started. He was also one of the early reporters and editors at the Vietnam News Agency, from 1955 to 1964.

Although a large part of his life was associated with war, suffering, and poverty, behind Duong Tuongs appearance lies the innocent soul of an "incurable dreamer", the word used by late journalist Nguyen Khuyen, a longtime friend of his.

Duong Tuong was a dreamer with a strongly marked artistic turn of mind. He had no use for mundane, trivial things, totally divorced from ambitious motives that normally drove other men in the rat race for power and wealth. He was never seen without a book even while walking down the streets, untroubled by worries about everyday life, Khuyen wrote in the preface to the book Kieu in English translated by Duong Tuong.

With that innocence, Duong Tuong walked leisurely into many artistic paths. He identifies himself as a person who is "passionate about everything": literature, poetry, music, painting, cinema, etc.

If translating is his way of bringing the world's elite culture to Vietnamese readers, then poetry and painting are the fields that he wanted to wander to discover and innovate. And so leisurely, he now slowly enters a pure and silent world.

Duong Tuong was a contributing short story translator and arts writer to the Viet Nam News in its early days from 1991-1999. VNS
(CNN)  United States national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Sunday vowed there would be "real costs" for China if the country went forward with providing lethal aid to Russia in its war on Ukraine.

"From our perspective, actually, this war presents real complications for Beijing. And Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance. But, if it goes down that road, it will come at real costs to China. And I think China's leaders are weighing that as they make their decisions," Sullivan told CNN's Dana Bash on "State of the Union."

In diplomatic conversations with China, he added, the US is "not just making direct threats. We're just laying out both the stakes and the consequences, how things would unfold. And we are doing that clearly and specifically behind closed doors."

Sullivan's comments come at a critical juncture in the war in Ukraine. The US has intelligence that the Chinese government is considering providing Russia with drones and ammunition for use in the war, three sources familiar with the intelligence told CNN.

It does not appear that Beijing has made a final decision yet, the sources said, as negotiations between Russia and China about the price and scope of the equipment are ongoing.

Since invading Ukraine, Russia has repeatedly requested drones and ammunition from China, the sources familiar with the intelligence said, and Chinese leadership has been actively debating over the last several months whether or not to send the lethal aid, the sources added.

"I can level with the American people in saying that war is unpredictable," Sullivan said Sunday when asked if the US could continue supporting Ukraine at current levels a year from now. "One year ago, we were all bracing for the fall of Kyiv in a matter -- in a matter of days. One year later, Joe Biden was standing with President Zelensky in Kyiv declaring that Kyiv stands."

"So, I cannot predict the future, and nor can anyone else. And anyone who is suggesting they can define for you how and when this war will end is not leveling with the American people or anyone else," he said.

Sullivan also reiterated Biden's Friday remarks that the administration was ruling out providing F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine "for now."

"This phase of the war requires tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, artillery, tactical air defense systems, so that Ukrainian fighters can retake territory that Russia currently occupies," Sullivan said. "F-16s are a question for a later time."

House Foreign Affairs Chairman Michael McCaul said Sunday that Congress "can certainly write into our appropriations bills, prioritizing weapons systems" for Ukraine.

"We intend to do that," the Texas Republican said on ABC when asked what Congress could do to push the Biden administration to provide longer-range missile systems, such as ATACMS, or F-16s to Ukraine.

"I know the administration says, 'As long as it takes.' I think with the right weapons, it shouldn't take so long," McCaul said. "This whole thing is taking too long. And it really didn't have to happen this way."

Sunday also marked the nine-year anniversary of Russia's occupation of the Ukrainian territory of Crimea. The US State Department on Sunday reasserted that "Crimea is Ukraine."

"The United States does not and never will recognize Russia's purported annexation of the peninsula," department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement, calling Russia's 2014 seizure of Crimea "a clear violation of international law and of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Sullivan, however, would not say whether the Biden administration would support Ukraine deciding that victory would mean retaking Crimea.

"What ultimately happens with Crimea, in the context of this war and a settlement of this war, is something for the Ukrainians to determine with the support of the United States," he said to Bash.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "US says China will face real costs if it provides lethal aid to Russia for war in Ukraine."
BAC NINH  A series of special cultural and tourism activities will take place this week as part of the quan ho (love duet) singing festival 2023 being held in the northern province of Bac Ninh.

An opening ceremony held on Saturday in the province's Kinh Bac Cultural Centre Square attracted thousands of people to this year's festival which is themed Ve Mien Quan Ho (Travelling to the Land of Quan Ho).

The five-day event includes about 30 activities to honour the national value of traditional duet love singing, connecting the quintessence of intangible cultural heritages recognised by UNESCO and receiving the decisions on recognition of three artifacts as National Treasures.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the People's Committee of Bac Ninh Province Nguyen Huong Giang said Bac Ninh - Kinh Bac - the land of "genius and masterpiece", is rich in historical, cultural and revolutionary traditions, and home to the relics of Kings of Ly Dynasty to open and develop the ai Viet civilisation.

"This land is the ancestral hall of Buddhism, the first centre of Confucianism in the country. Over thousands of years of history, it has crystallised and developed in Bac Ninh-Kinh Bac a system of diverse, rich and unique cultural heritages," said the provincial official.

Bac Ninh is also known as the land of traditional folk festivals, with various customs and practices. Folk performances have their own unique nuances, typically the quan ho singing, which has been recognised by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Up to now, after more than 10 years since being recognised, Quan ho Bac Ninh has been preserved and spread strongly domestically and internationally, said Giang.

In addition to quan ho, this festival also includes performances of other localities with intangible cultural heritage recognised by UNESCO across the country such as Hue royal court music, gong playing of the Central Highlands province of ak Lak and Xoan singing of the northern province of Phu Tho.

Attending the opening ceremony was Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha who handed over decisions on the recognition of three artifacts of Bac Ninh Province as National Treasures approved by the Prime Minister in 2022.

The treasures include a stone stele of Tinh Lu Pagoda, dating from the year of the Rat (1648), currently kept at the pagoda in Lang Ngam Commune, Gia Binh District; a Quan The Am statue dating from the year of the Snake (1449) of Cung Kiem Pagoda, currently preserved at the pagoda in Nhan Hoa Commune, Que Vo District; a ong Son Culture bronze artifact, dated between 2200 and 2300 years ago in the third or second century BC, now kept at the Nam Hong royal museum in Tu Son City.

After the ceremony, the audience enjoyed an art programme themed Mien Di San - Tinh Hoa va Ban Sac (Heritage Domain - Essence and Identity), with the participation of nearly 1,000 artists and actors from theatres and art troupes in Bac Ninh and from across the country. VNS


HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has requested basic and comprehensive reform in digital transformation to improve labour productivity and competitiveness of enterprises and the nation.

He says this will contribute to building an independent, self-reliant economy that integrates into the world extensively and effectively.

PM Chinh, who is also Chairman of the National Committee for Digital Transformation, was speaking as he chaired its 5th meeting via a videoconference on Saturday.

He said that digital transformation is a key task that must be carried out regularly and continuously at all levels, sectors and localities, with the active participation of the whole population, but with a focus and priority to avoid overlapping and wastefulness.

Digital government is a key driving force leading the building of a digital economy, digital citizenship and digital society, contributing to successfully realising the Resolution adopted by the 13th National Party Congress. The people and businesses should be at the centre and a motivation to be provided with better quality services, he said.

About future tasks, the PM asked the National Committee for Digital Transformation and relevant steering committees of ministries, agencies and localities to build their own plans this year, focusing on the theme of the National Year of Digital Data, with clear roadmaps, goals and responsibilities of those involved.

It is a must to launch 53 key public services in line with the Scheme 06 and the PMs Decision 422/QD-TTg, connect online public services with the National Public Service Portal to save time and costs, mitigate corruption and negative phenomena, he said.

Citizens are not required to submit residential status certificates while handling administrative procedures, PM Chinh stressed.

Specific tasks were also assigned to the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Information and Communications, the Ministry of Justice, the State Bank of Vietnam, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

At present, all enterprises have e-invoices while e-commerce revenue account for 7.5 per cent of the total retail value. Up to 75 per cent of households have broadband internet access, 30.07 per cent of small and medium-sized enterprises use digital platforms and 85 per cent of the population use smart phones.

As of February 19, more than 177 million files were being processed on the National Pubic Service Portal, over 8 million of which were in digital format. VNS
HA NOI  Improving healthcare for the people requires efforts from all sectors and stakeholders, according to experts at an event celebrating medical workers' contributions in the capital city on Friday.

Dr Nguyen Viet Nhung, director of the National Lung Hospital said that despite numerous challenges over the past few years, the healthcare sector has always strived to improve.

He added that there is also progress made in technology applications, which allows many patients to access quality treatment instead of having to go abroad like in the past.

However, Nhung observed that a portion of the medical workforce still doesnt receive adequate attention, particularly social workers or preventive medicine staff.

It is only during events such as the COVID-19 pandemic that their important role is recognised.

Pham Ngoc Dung, head of Hai Ha District Medical Centre in Quang Ninh Province, said that taking care of peoples health concerns the whole of society.

She said: The engagement of local authorities is especially important in initial healthcare because they are those who are the closest to people and understand the local characteristics.

Many hospitals used the pandemic as an opportunity to transform their operations to be more resilient and efficient.

Dr Quach Huu Trung, the director of Hospital 119 in a Nang City, said that during the outbreaks, the facility gradually switched to online. Meetings, training courses for family medicine, and telehealth sessions with the Ha Noi Medical University Hospital and other units were all held remotely.

In regard to the exodus of medical workers from the public to the private sector following the pandemic, the director of the National Childrens Hospital Tran Minh ien said that it is time to revise how employees capacities match the job descriptions and compensation, as well as trust between the managerial level and staff.

o Tat Cuong, director of the private hospital Vinmec added that it would be maximum optimisation if the public and private medical system allows for human resources sharing.

Not every locality has a sufficient number of capable physicians, and therefore this method could mean more patients can receive treatment, he said.

Communication matters

Medical experts also expressed their gratitude for their work in improving healthcare for people and recognising the efforts of health workers.

Dr Pham Nhu Hiep, director of Hue Central Hospital said he gave high regard to the roles of press agencies in peoples healthcare, especially in the fight against COVID-19.

The event was also attended by many senior journalists from national newspapers and press agencies.

Editor-in-chief of Nhan Dan (People) Newspaper Le Quoc Minh, who is also deputy head of the Party Central Committees Commission for Information and Education and Chairman of the Vietnam Journalists Association, extended his best wishes to leaders of the health ministry and medical facilities.

He said many reporters worked on the forefront of the combat against the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting efforts by doctors during the fight, while many others travelled to remote and natural disaster-hit areas to cover the news relating to health service there.

Vietnam News Agencys general director Vu Viet Trang said many health workers have inspired journalists, saying there are professors, doctors, pharmacists, managers and village midwives who have braved difficulties and hardships, and even risked their lives to create miracles and bring life and health to people.

Press agencies, particularly major ones, will always accompany medical forces, and work together with the health sector in seeking solutions to obstacles, contributing to mobilising the strength of the entire society in health care, she continued.

Deputy health minister o Xuan Tuyen emphasised the role of press agencies in communicating the guidelines of the Party, policies of the State and strategies of the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 prevention and control in a rapid and accurate fashion.

He suggested building close links between the medical sector and press agencies for the publics health, and that press agencies and media managers should prioritise resources for the communication work in healthcare.  VNS
BA RIA-VUNG TAU  Dr Nguyen Viet Giap, director of Ba Ria-Vung Tau Eye Hospital, has been honoured with the 2023 Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Outstanding Service in Prevention of Blindness award.

The award, the most prestigious in the field of ophthalmology in the region, was presented to the doctor along with 17 others at the 38th APAO Congress in Malaysia on February 25.

Giap is the sixth member of the Viet Nam Ophthalmological Society (VOS) to receive the honor since the association was established more than 60 years ago.

According to VOS, with over 30 years of experience in ophthalmology, Giap has conducted more than 50 scientific research projects and raised valuable initiatives.

In the past decade alone, his initiatives have helped more than 114,000 elderly people access free medical checkups and treatment, and 17,500 others receive surgery.

Thanks to his efforts, the rate of blindness among residents over 50 years old in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau has decreased from 3.31 per cent in 2007 to 1.69 per cent in 2020.

More than 200,000 local students were also provided with free checkups and treatment, and around 15,000 poor students were given glasses.

In the nomination letter to the APAO Award Committee, VOS President Professor Ton Thi Kim Thanh described Giap as a dedicated, highly skilled doctor with many creative ideas and great contributions to ophthalmological examination and treatment activities and blindness prevention in the community.

Along with directly providing checkups and treatment to tens of thousands of patients, Giap has actively engaged in training activities. He has organised more than 200 training courses for over 2,500 medical staff in localities and schools, along with more than 10,000 consultation events on eye protection in the community.  VNS
The deadline has been set for June 30 this year, the Vietnamese firm stated on Friday, whilst explaining that financial conditions remain stable. The announcement follows a Hanoi Stock Exchange document issued on February 21, which listed companies that were late to make bond payments, including BCG Energy.

A solar power farm owned by BCG Energy in Vietnam. Photo courtesy of the firm

BCG Energy, part of Vietnamese conglomerate Bamboo Capital Group, issued a $5 million convertible bond to Hanwha Energy in September 2019, and this was used to develop renewable energy projects in Vietnam as part of the duos strategic partnership. The bond was intended to mature after three years, i.e. on September 4, 2022, with Hanwha given the option of converting it into shares.

BCG Energy said that towards the end of the term, Hanwha Energy decided not to convert, and the two sides agreed partially to change the bond into a debt to be settled by June 30, 2023.

BCG Energy CEO Pham Minh Tuan said his company had partially paid out to Hanwha Energy, and the two sides had agreed upon terms to settle the unpaid $3 million.

This agreement has not been reported enough, and thats why there are some unnecessary concerns about our financial health. Instead, were operating normally, he said.

BCG Energy is implementing rooftop solar projects and completing its solar power and offshore wind projects in its portfolio, he added.

As of December 31, 2022, BCG Energys equity stood at over $189 million, and its total renewable assets were more than $875.2 million. The companys 2022 net revenue was more than $44.7 million, and profit after tax was more than $10.8 million.

Sembcorp and BCG Energy partner up for 1.5GW of renewable energy projects in Vietnam Sembcorp Utilities, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sembcorp Industries and BCG Energy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bamboo Capital Group inked an agreement for the development of renewable projects in Vietnam on December 9, 2021.

Timing right for BCG Lands public offering plans Initial public offerings have been muted across the board as macroeconomic headwinds and market volatility colour the landscape. Vo Manh Tin, CEO of BCG Land  a member of Bamboo Capital Group  told VIRs Luu Huong how the developer is preparing for its potential offering.
The event emphasised the challenges for corporate directors, including the roles of their independent directors and the quality of disclosure in annual reports.

Expectations rise for more professional BOD reporting, illustration photoo/ source.freepik.com

Viewing the current situation, Phan Le Thanh Long, CEO of the Vietnam Institute of Directors (VIOD), shared that the results for the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard 2021 assessment showed that Vietnam is still in the early stage of practicing the common principles of corporate governance. The role of the board of directors (BODs) is not yet defined, as most companies are still operating in the form of a one-man firm, he said.

According to Long, there are four main factors that make an effective BOD: composition, skills, oversight, and financial and legal compliance.

In terms of the boards composition, regular meetings and updates are required for both shareholders and independent directors, regardless if they hold company stocks or not. Only then can the BODs exercise their rights and responsibilities in terms of strategy development, resources provision, and supervision of the management board, Long said.

Tran Anh Dao, deputy general director of the Management Board at the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HSX), assessed that the role of each board member, especially independent directors, have not yet been clearly expressed at AGMs.

An example would be the lack of participation from independent directors in raising issues and drafting resolutions to present at AGMs, Dao pointed out. Decree No.155/2020/ND-CP mandates that the roles of each board member are routinely assessed during the AGM. There should also be an audit committee under the BOD, which is led by an independent director, who is mandated to produce a report and present at the AGM. However, we havent observed these activities in most meetings.

In addition, the provision of BODs and independent directors is another problem for many Vietnamese businesses. With the lack of professional networks of directors, it has become a common practice to appoint independent directors only to comply with the law.

Weve observed that there are 42 listed enterprises on the HSX that have not met the required ratio of independent directors in their BOD according to Decree 155. In the coming time, the State Securities Commission (SSC) will pay closer attention to this issue and implement a fine for violation, Dao of HSX emphasised.

However, more than a financial punishment, companies should comply with international regulations for their own reputational benefit and long-term development.

VIODs Long shared that one of the good corporate governance practices is that the chairman is an independent director.

Some of the most important skill sets for them include legal and financial skills. The chairman can act as an expert to coordinate and operate a BOD to meet international standards and establish a good culture of corporate governance. Gradually, that culture will reflect on business efficiency and sustainable development, especially for listed enterprises, Long said.

Ha Thu Thanh, chairperson of both Deloitte Vietnam and VIOD, highlighted the importance of a set of regulations and interactive culture within a BOD, crediting it as the key factor to maintain sustainable corporate governance.

The first step in finding a qualified independent director is to be able to quantify and measure the compatibility, said Thanh. Im a firm believer in the fact that once companies build themselves a sound practice of corporate governance, talented candidates will find them.

Tran Thi Thuy Ngoc, deputy CEO of Deloitte Vietnam, raised a few key points that need improvement in Vietnamese listed companies annual reports, according to the 2022 voting results.

The number of reports in English is still low, and the lack of BOD list and ownership ratio of the subsidiaries is substantial. While financial statements are still limited in terms of content, business results evaluation, financial indicators, sustainability reports, and considerations of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria are only limited to the purpose of compliance and announcement, Ngoc said.

In terms of sustainability reports, Vietnam began to adopt the trend around 2015 and, by last year, a number of regulations on sustainability have been published, along with the global shift from voluntary to authoritative ESG and climate disclosure.

While a number of Vietnamese listed companies have taken the initiatives to publish a separate report on their sustainability efforts, these few attempts often lack specific description of ESG risk management, process for reporting information collection, and comparisons between periods and industries. Few reports analysed the impacts of the value chain. In addition, there is a missing link between businesses sustainability strategy and activities.

In many cases, the problem is not about businesses carrying out ESG efforts, but they fail to bring out the best results in their reporting. Hence, they will not be able to provide value for their investors, banks, or even their own employees, as well as customers and other stakeholders, who would use these reports for various purposes, Ngoc assessed. That is something that can be improved upon in this coming reporting season.

Dao of HSX noted that in the near future, as a circular on information disclosure is refined, there would be more criteria and standards for sustainability reporting.

The end goal is for foreign and domestic investors to gain a more transparent and objective view of Vietnamese listed companies, Dao said, revealing that the HSX is working on a training course for listed companies on ESG reporting in March, in collaboration with the SSC and the International Finance Corporation.

In the meantime, Ngoc of Deloitte Vietnam offered advice for BODs to prepare better corporate reports for the upcoming season.

They should get ready for stricter requirements on ESG reports and be prepared for more quantitative information. In addition, they need to ensure key personnel are well-equipped and familiar with new standards. Companies should also invest in an information system for their future development, Ngoc recommended.

BOD operations under scrutiny ahead of AGM season February is the peak season for businesses to prepare for their AGMs, with one of the top concerns, for domestic and foreign investors alike, being the roles of independent members of the board of directors and the quality of disclosure in corporate reports.
The government has demanded that the Ministry of Finance (MoF) closely follow implementation of the $15 billion Programme on Socioeconomic Recovery and Development (PSRD) so that a new scheme on mobilising financial resources can ensure continued deployment, accordingly helping the economy to achieve a desired growth rate of at least 6.5 per cent this year.

Leaders declare intention to up PSRD deployment, photo VNA

The government has also ordered the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) to expeditiously submit to the government in this month for enacting a new decree on amending and supplementing Decree No.31/2022/ND-CP dated May 2022 on the lending rate support from the state budget for bank loans extended to enterprises, cooperatives and household businesses.

This is aimed to help remove difficulties for enterprises through supporting them with a 2 per cent lending rate assistance package for enterprises, cooperatives, and households via commercial banks.

Meanwhile, other ministries and localities nationwide have also been requested by the government to soon carry out projects which have had sufficient procedures under the PSRD.

After one year of implementation, despite some achievements, the PSRD remains slow in implementation of some policies for supporting people and enterprises, whose deadline for deployment has terminated, and some other policies have produced limited results, failing to meet desired results, said Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung. At the same time, the allocation of development investment capital within the PSRD also remains slow.

According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment, it is estimated that the total disbursement sum of all support policies under the PSRDs has reached more than $3.51 billion.

Specifically, as for schemes on providing preferential loans via Vietnam Bank for Social Policies, this bank disbursed all types of loans valued at $697 million under the PSRD, including those for buying computers and equipment for online study ($35.9 million); purchasing social houses ($175.9 million); employment assistance ($434.8 million); non-state nurseries and primary schools ($8.4 million); and for inhabitants in ethnic minorities and mountainous areas ($42.26 million).

In addition, as of the end of 2022 the bank supported poor people with a package of $38.17 million with an annual lending rate of over 6 per cent.

Regarding the package for supporting factory workers in housing rental, its validity has terminated so far, and localities have disbursed about $162.8 million.

As for policies on exempting and reducing taxes and fees, extending tax payment and land rental, by late January, about $2.28 billion was disbursed for exempting and decreasing taxes and fees, and tax payment and land rental worth $4.6 billion was extended  including $4.03 billion for extending the payment of VAT, corporate income tax, personal income tax, and land rental, and $363.9 million for extending the payment of special consumption tax for domestically produced or assembled automobiles.

Nonetheless, businesses are demanding more assistance from the policy.

We want to get supported in terms of taxes and fees, said Nguyen Minh Thang, director of rice company Hoang Ngoc Trading in Hanoi. Like many other businesses, we are now burdened by a raft of different types of taxes, as well as assorted fees such as commodity storage and transportation.

According to the General Statistics Office, last year, the number of businesses with halted operations hit 73,800, up 34.3 per cent on-year. The number of those with halted operations and waiting for dissolution reached 50,800, up 5.5 per cent on-year; while the number of those having completing dissolution procedures was 18,600, up 11.2 per cent on-year. On average, each month saw about 11,900 enterprises withdrawing from the market.

When it comes to the 2 per cent lending rate assistance package for enterprises, cooperatives, and households via commercial banks, the SBV reported that by late last year, commercial banks disbursed $5.82 million as preferential lending rate for loans of nearly $1.3 billion.

Just over a year ago, the National Assembly allowed the use of a maximum of $1.74 billion for this 2 per cent lending rate assistance package. However, the SBV reported that by late 2022, disbursement from the initiative was being carried out at a very slow pace, standing at only 0.3 per cent of the total.

It is likely that this package will not be able to be disbursed wholly this year. Thus, the SBV would need to review the package and calculate the money that will not be able to be used and propose solutions and then report to the government and the prime minister, said Minister Dung.

The SBV should report to the government on revising Decree 31 in a manner that procedures and conditions for obtaining loans must be simplified, and the best conditions must be created to support enterprises to save loan costs, he added.

The PSRD was adopted early last year and is expected to enable the economy to achieve a higher level of growth, at 6.5-7 per cent for the 2021-2025 period.

The programme covers several key components: reopening the economy pertaining to enhancing medical capacity, and pandemic prevention and control ($2.6 billion); ensuring social welfare and employment ($2.31 billion); assisting enterprises recovery, cooperatives, and business households ($4.78 billion); developing infrastructure ($4.95 billion); and increasing institutional and administrative reform, as well as improving the investment and business climate. Moreover, another $434.8 million will be mobilised from non-state budget financial funds.

Government launches action plan on Hanoi development The Government has issued an action plan for implementing the Politburos Resolution No 15-NQ/TW on orientations and tasks for the development of Hanoi by 2030, with a vision to 2045.
A delegation of NAB led by its CEO Ross MacEwan on February 24 met with Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Huy Dung in Hanoi to discuss possibilities on cooperating in digital transformation in the country.

Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Huy Dung and Ross MacEwan, CEO of NAB at the meeting on February 24

MacEwan said that NAB had has strengths in the fields of IT, innovation and cybersecurity. And NAB was willing to share the digital transformation experiences of NAB.

He also discussed the possibilities of cooperating between NAB and the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) in training of tech experts, and IT manpower in Vietnam.

In response, the deputy minister said that Vietnam and Australia were promoting the implementation of the Strategy to strengthen economic cooperation (signed by the prime ministers of the two countries in November 2021), in which the two sides are coordinating to survey Vietnam's needs to build a cooperation framework and sign cooperation agreements in the field of digital economy.

Dung added that the two sides needed to have a specific plan to promote cooperation, set up a group of experts to exchange and share experiences in the field of information and communication, and build digital government, digital economy and society. The discussions were part of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Vietnams digital transformation has been attracting attention from businesses, international organisations and countries worldwide.

On February 13, Minister of Information and Communications Nguyen Manh Hung met with US trade representative Katherine Tai and US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper to discuss boosting bilateral ties in digital economy and digital trade.

The year 2022 witnessed Vietnam further strengthen ties with many countries in digital transformation, and the ICT industry. They include the United States, the United Nations, Japan, and Laos, showing how important Vietnams technology market is to international partners.

Ericssons commitment to supporting the digital transformation of Vietnam Ericsson has been contributing its technology leadership to digital transformation in Vietnam over the past 30 years. Denis Brunetti, president of Ericsson in Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, talked to VIRs Bich Thuy about his own journey and the plans ahead for the company in Vietnam.

Welcoming the year of digital data for Vietnam In 2022, the government assigned more important functions and tasks in digital transformation, government, economy, society, technology, and electronic transactions to the Ministry of Information and Communications.

A good time to explore digital assets With 10 years of experience in connecting IT and blockchain startups with investors worldwide, Hadi Malaeb, co-founder and CEO of Agora Group, shared with VIRs Duc Hanh his thoughts on promoting blockchain startup and digital asset space.
Netflixs proposed office in Vietnam could officially open in late 2023, an inside source revealed.

The company is in the early stage of planning for a local entity in Vietnam after completing an assessment in late 2022 that evaluated the security and political risks of operating an office in the country, including the handling of user data and sensitive content, Reuters reported.

In December last year, Vishal Sarin, Netflix vice president, met with representatives of the Ministry of Planning and Investment's Office, to discuss the opening of a representative office in Vietnam.

"Netflix currently does not have a representative office in Vietnam but has gradually invested in Vietnam by licensing more than 200 local movies, hiring Vietnamese partners to dub and make subtitles for these movies," said Vishal.

According to a report by Google, Temasek Holdings and Bain & Company, Vietnam's digital economy is said to boast the fastest growth in Southeast Asia, with gross merchandise value rising 28 per cent on-year to $23 billion in 2022. This figure illustrates the countrys vast potential and the main reason for Netflix's desire to capitalise on this opportunity.

Since March 2022, when cross-border businesses in Vietnam started to declare and pay taxes, local authorities have collected more around $145 million from 42 companies. Of these, there are six major foreign corporations comprising Meta (Facebook), Google, Microsoft, TikTok, Netflix, and Apple, accounting for 90 per cent of the market share in revenue of e-commerce services and cross-border digital platforms in the country.

Netflix considering opening office in Vietnam Netflix leaders met with representatives of Vietnam's Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) to discuss conditions for establishing a wholly-foreign-owned enterprise in Vietnam.
This was the verdict of industry experts during a roundtable on the Vietnamese real estate market, held last week in Ho Chi Minh City.

Dr. Nguyen Van Dinh, vice president of the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, stated that a number of reforms would be issued this quarter as he forecast the market's immediate future. By the end of Q2, there will have been several modifications to the management of certain issues.

"Presently, firms are required to restructure and realign their goods to make them simpler for consumers. Even the process from the administration to the ministries has evolved, so the real estate market will be more active by the end of the second quarter of 2023," Dinh said.

Dr. Tran Dinh Thien, a member of the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, said, "Subsidies in the real estate market have been oriented towards the luxury category for a long time. Not dealing swiftly with the bottleneck concerns is not only wasteful for the economy, but also raises hazards, such as bad debt".

Dr. Can Van Luc, a member of the National Monetary and Financial Policy Advisory Council, echoed this sentiment, stating that the need to revive the real estate market has never been discussed as often as it is today. This indicates that the market comprises several odd components.

According to Luc, business debts are the most concerning problem at the moment. If real estate companies do not repurchase, the bond debt will become extremely significant. Many huge corporations, such as Novaland Group, are struggling to negotiate and pay maturing obligations. "The decree revising corporate bonds is also being urgently reviewed, even though it was just published in September 2022," Luc added. "It will establish circumstances to eliminate challenges for companies in light of the realities of the situation".

Meanwhile, the government is concentrating heavily on reducing legal obstacles, facilitating the clearance of hundreds of projects, restoring cash flow, and most crucially, restoring market confidence. This, according to Thien, is exposing some bright spots, but it is too early to determine whether all of this can be accomplished.

According to him, in order to tackle the difficulties of the real estate market on a basic level, more big steps are required.

Policies taking shape for real estate market overhaul The Vietnamese governments new policies on land, market transparency, taxes, and bond issues are expected to help the real estate market in 2023 to pass through the current gloomy winter and help the market become more stable.

Vietnam may become largest retail real estate market in region Hoang Nguyet Minh, senior director of Commercial Leasing at Savills Hanoi, discussed the short-term prospects of real estate investment at a VIR roundtable on February 7.
(CNN)  The sailor who spent weeks lost at sea in January, surviving largely off of ketchup, could have a new, state-of-the-art boat coming to him.

And the handsome gift would be thanks to Ketchup giant Heinz, which is trying to locate Elvis Francois.

The company posted a callout to social media on February 14th, hoping to track down the elusive Dominica sailor. According to Heinz's social media, they've already reached out to the government of Dominica, the island nation where Francois is from, as well as the Colombian navy, which rescued him northwest of Colombia's Puerto Bolivar.

But so far, none of the attempts to find Francois have panned out, says Heinz.

So the ketchup retailer is now "asking the general public to try and help with the hunt," according to a statement shared with CNN over email.

"We're also asking for any credible leads to contact Elvis so we can help cover a new boat equipped with full navigational technology to avoid another disaster in the future," added the company.

Heinz also suggested fans use the hashtag #FindTheKetchupBoatGuy to amplify their search.

Francois, 47, was repairing his boat near the Dutch part of the island of Saint Martin in December when his boat was pulled out to sea. He told Colombian authorities that he lacked the navigational knowledge to return to shore and spent 24 days at sea. He survived off a bottle of ketchup, garlic powder, and Maggi stock cubes, which he mixed with water.

He was rescued after a plane spotted his sailboat with "help" engraved into the hull, according to Colombian authorities.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Ketchup helped him survive weeks lost at sea. Now Heinz wants to buy him a new boat."
Last week, VNI received a document from a group of shareholders who own approximately 75 million shares, a little over 75 per cent of the total number of voting shares of the corporation. The document stated that the shareholders, including 19 individual investors and one institutional investor, plan to transfer their shares to the South Korean firm, DB Insurance.

The Board of Directors of VNI responded with a resolution to include the item on the agenda for the 2023 extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. The transfer of shares is expected to be done through order-matching or agreement on the Unlisted Public Company Market. The implementation period is from the first quarter of this year until the completion of the transaction.

If the deal is successful, DB Insurance will become the parent company of VNI, owning 75 per cent of its charter capital, becoming the controlling shareholder of the non-life insurer.

VNI was established in 2008 with the founding shareholders including Vietnam Airlines, Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group, Vietnam Machinery Installation Corporation, Hanoi General Import-Export Corporation, and Nam Viet JSC.

DB Insurance, formerly Hankook Automobile Insurance, is headquartered in Seoul, South Korea and was established in 1963. The company offers automotive insurance, long-term casualty insurance, property insurance, fire and marine insurance, among other services.

Insurance groups take on legal switch Entering 2023, insurance companies are expected to move into a new era as the legal environment for the sector is refined.
SEATTLE  You can change your name, but in many states you can't completely shed your old one  something that's of particular concern to transgender people and that legislators in at least two states are trying to change.

A bill in Washington would allow gender expression and identity as reasons to seal, or keep out of the public record, a future petition for a name change. And a California bill would require the sealing of petitions by minors to change their name and gender on identity documents.

Advocates warn that in states where such petitions aren't sealed, transgender people can be susceptible to cyberbullying or even physical violence because their previous names, and by extension their lives, are an open book in the public record. Students, for instance, can and do easily find and share such records when looking for background on a new kid in town, one advocate noted.

Maia Xiao, a University of Washington graduate student, changed her name in that state and said the publication of a transgender friend's name-change records in an online forum led to harassment, including hate mail. She wrote last summer to Democratic state Sen. Jamie Pedersen to urge reform.

"It feels very close to me," said Xiao, who would not disclose the name of her friend, citing privacy. "I don't live a very online life, but it's really scary to know that something so personal can be so easily accessed by transphobic trolls who want to cause harm."

Pedersen is sponsoring the Washington legislation, which passed the Senate this month with bipartisan support and is expected to also pass the House. The bill is modeled on laws in New York and Oregon and also would extend records privacy to refugees, emancipated minors and people who have been granted asylum.

Currently, only people subjected to domestic violence can have their name changes easily sealed in Washington. Some other states, including California, also make exceptions for victims of crimes such as human trafficking, stalking and sexual assault.

"This seemed to me like a simple action that could go a long way in making transgender people a lot safer in our state," Pedersen said.

Some officials and law enforcement officers worry that criminals who request a name change could escape accountability under the proposals. The Washington bill would allow courts to unseal a name change file if law enforcement had reasonable suspicions, and sex offenders and incarcerated people would be ineligible for a sealed name change.

The approaches contrast starkly with recent and mysterious moves in Florida and Texas to compile lists of trans residents using public records, and as lawmakers in at least 39 states consider a torrent of anti-trans bills.

Republicans' "disturbing" requests for data on transgender residents in some of those states add urgency to his proposal, Pedersen said.

The office of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton last year requested data on how many people changed the gender information on their driver's licenses. The Texas Department of Public Safety found over 16,000 gender changes during the prior two years but didn't turn over data because it could not determine the reason for each change.

In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis asked state universities last month for data on students who sought or received treatments for gender dysphoria.

Harassment from such disclosures can target young trans people who struggle with mental health issues or gender dysphoria, advocates say. The same internet forum that Xiao said targeted her friend came under fire last year for instances of doxxing trans people, or maliciously publishing their personal information online, and was linked to suicides.

Peers may search students' names as they move to a new school and can easily find and share court records related to their petitions for a name and gender change, said Kathie Moehlig, executive director of the San Diego nonprofit TransFamily Support Services. She approached California Assembly Speaker Pro Tem Chris Ward with the idea for the bill after students she advises brought the trend to her attention.

Many families with trans children aren't even aware such records are public, Moehlig said.

The California bill, introduced last month, would require the state to seal any petition filed by a person under 18 for a change to gender and sex or to gender, sex and name in identity documents. Also sealed would be documents from a petitioner's court proceedings.

San Diego lawyer Clarice Barrelet, whose 11-year-old son is transgender, said simply plugging his name into a search engine shows his legal gender change.

He had insisted by age 6 that he should not be called a girl and would grow up to be a man, Barrelet said. He came out as transgender at age 8 and changed the name and pronouns he used in school even before his mom sought a legal change to his identity documents.

Barrelet said she thinks those records should be sealed for children and adults to better protect their privacy.

Ward, a San Diego County Democrat and vice chair of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, said he hopes his bill will reduce the risk of bullying for gender-nonconforming children. He noted that being outed can be especially traumatic for young people who are still processing their identities.

"I want them to certainly be comfortable," Ward said, "and free to be themselves."

25 transgender celebrities who broke barriers Intro Andreja Pejic Asia Kate Dillon Billy Tipton Caitlyn Jenner Candis Cayne Caroline Cossey Chaz Bono Chris Mosier Christine Jorgensen Fallon Fox Gigi Gorgeous Hari Nef Hunter Schafer Jamie Clayton Jazz Jennings Josie Totah Kye Allums Lana Wachowski and Lilly Wachowski Laura Jane Grace Laverne Cox Lynn Conway Michaela Jae Rodriguez Nat Puff Natalie ContraPoints Wynn Nikkie de Jager
Rep. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan announced Monday that she is running for U.S. Senate in 2024. Slotkin is looking to succeed her fellow Democrat, Sen. Debbie Stabenow who is retiring after four terms in office.

Slotkin was first elected to the 8th congressional district in 2018, defeating incumbent Republican Mike Bishop by about 4%. Narrow reelection wins followed again in 2020 and 2022. Her 2022 run was in the 7th district, the best fit after redistricting. This competitive district, in the southcentral part of the state, includes Lansing, the state capital.

Nine current House members - six Democrats and three Republicans - have said they are retiring from the House. Including Slotkin, all but two are looking for a promotion to the U.S. Senate. Indiana Republican Victoria Spartz has not announced any future plans, while Rhode Island Democrat David Cicilline will be resigning his seat later this year.
Weather Alert

.Warming temperatures this weekend will bring renewed snowmelt and streamflow rises, especially for snow covered terrain below about 7000 feet. Creeks that brought impacts this past week are likely to be problematic again and potentially reach higher levels, especially by late Sunday. ...FLOOD WATCH FOR SNOWMELT REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH MONDAY MORNING... * WHAT...Flooding caused by snowmelt continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of California and western Nevada, including the following areas, in California, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties and Surprise Valley California. In western Nevada, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area and Mineral and Southern Lyon Counties. * WHEN...Through Monday morning. * IMPACTS...Creeks and streams will be running high and fast. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Minor mainstem flooding along the Susan River, Forks of the Carson River, and the East Walker River below Bridgeport Reservoir cannot be ruled out. Anyone participating in outdoor recreation this weekend should use caution as water will be running high, fast, and potentially out of banks for some creeks and streams. The water will be extremely cold as well, quickly causing shock. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. &&
(CNN)  At least 59 people, including an infant, children and several women, died after a wooden boat carrying migrants broke apart on rocks off the coast of Calabria, Italian authorities say.

The death toll is provisional and likely to rise. Bad weather in that part of the Mediterranean sea is hampering search efforts by making the field of debris larger.

The first three bodies washed up on the beach near Staccato di Cutro in Southern Italy around 4:40 a.m. local time Sunday.

The vessel left The Turkish city of Izmir three or four days ago, with 140 to 150 people on board, Reuters reported.

Around 80 people were saved from the water clinging on to pieces of the boat, Italy's fire brigade told CNN. The survivors were from Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan, they added.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed human traffickers. "It is criminal to launch a boat just 20 meters long with 200 people on board in adverse weather," she said in a statement. "It is inhumane to exchange the lives of men, women and children for the price of a ticket under the false perspective of a safe journey."

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi added that new measures must be instituted to reduce such perilous journeys. "It is essential to continue with every possible initiative to stop departures and discourage crossings in any way which takes advantage of the illusory mirage of a better life," he said in a statement.

Meloni made stopping migrant boats a priority of her hard-right government. This week parliament approved new laws making it more difficult for NGOs to carry out rescues.

In Vatican City on Sunday, in reference to the victims of the shipwreck, Pope Francis said: "I pray for each of them, for the missing, and for the other migrants who survived. I thank those who are helping them and those who are giving them assistance. May the Virgin Mary help these brothers and sisters."

UNHCR records show that 11,874 people have arrived in Italy so far in 2023 by sea, with 678 of them arriving at Calabria.

Typically, arrivals are from African countries, rather than the Middle East and Asia, with the majority of boats setting off from Libya.

Only 8.3% of arrivals are from Pakistan, 6.7% from Afghanistan and 0.7% from Iran. The rest are primarily from Africa, with 17.3% of arrivals from Ivory Coast alone, 13.1% from Guinea. Other African nations, including North African countries, make up most of the rest.

The most deadly migration route is the Central Mediterranean route, where at least 20,334 people have died since 2014, according to the International Organization for Migration's Missing Migrants Project.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Children and women among 59 dead as migrant boat hits rocks near Italy"
March 12, 2023:

The Lyon County Sheriff's Office and the Fernley community are paying their respects as Sunday marks the one-year anniversary of Naomi Irion going missing.

The Sheriff's Office says they think of Naomi and her family every day and are asking the community to take a moment of silence in honor of Naomi.

Naomi's sister is also asking the community to wear rainbow colors to support Naomi.

March 6, 2023:

In his latest court appearance, accused killer Troy Driver pleaded not guilty to all counts he is facing in the death of then 18-year-old Naomi Irion.

Driver is charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping, sexual assault, robbery with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted person, burglary of a motor vehicle and destroying evidence.

Driver also waived his right to a speedy trial to give his legal counsel more time to prepare.

Prosecutors say they are seeking that Driver face the death penalty in the case.

While his next court appearance hasn't been set, the State of Nevada and Driver's attorney's will have 10 days to pick a date for his next appearance.

-------------------------------

February 27, 2023 Update:

A scheduled Monday preliminary hearing for accused killer Troy Driver is now happening March 6th.

Driver's February 27th hearing was continued due to snowy weather conditions.

Previously, Driver waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Driver was found competent to stand trial in early December.

Driver is accused of murdering and kidnapping 18-year-old Naomi Irion of Fernley.

December 5, 2022 Update:

After being found competent to stand trial, accused killer Troy Driver is scheduled to attend a preliminary hearing this upcoming February.

On December 5th, the Fernley Justice Court announced that his preliminary hearing will be February 16 & 17 at 9 a.m.

Driver is accused of murdering and kidnapping 18-year-old Naomi Irion of Fernley.

November 14, 2022 Update:

A Yerington district court has found accused killer Troy Driver competent enough to stand trial.

Driver appeared in court Monday, November 14 on order of a competency hearing.

He's now been ordered back to the Fernley Justice Court for a preliminary hearing. There's no immediate word on when this may be.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

The man accused of kidnapping and killing Naomi Irion of Fernley appeared in court to determine if he is fit enough to stand trial.

The court decided that Driver needed to be evaluated while recommending Lake's Crossing Center in Sparks.

After he is evaluated, they will come back together and review his evaluation.

There was no specific date given on when he will be evaluated or will appear in court again.

September 2, 2022 Update:

A Nevada justice of the peace has canceled this months preliminary hearing for a man accused of kidnapping and killing a Fernley teenager until a state judge decides if hes competent to stand trial.

Troy Driver was scheduled to appear in a justice court in Fernley Sept. 13-15 for a preliminary hearing to determine whether theres enough evidence to bound him over to Lyon County District Court on murder, kidnapping and other charges in the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Naomi Irion.

Canal Township Justice Court Judge Lori Matheus vacated the hearing in an order on Thursday, along with a Sept. 13 hearing on Drivers public defenders motion to dismiss some of the charges.

The Fernley Justice Court says Driver's competency hearing is set for September 12.

On August 30, Lyon County deputies confirm that accused murderer Troy Driver is still alive despite social media rumors that he's killed himself in jail.

The Lyon County Sheriff's Office addressed the rumor on its official Facebook page on Tuesday.

You can read the statement below -

AUGUST 5, 2022:

A judge has ordered a mental competency hearing for accused murderer Troy Driver, whose lawyers requested an evaluation last month.

Driver's lawyers had requested one out of concern that he may not be able to help in his own defense.

As of now, his preliminary hearing is still scheduled for September 13th, which is the first time he'll appear in court in person.

Driver is accused of kidnapping, sexually assaulting and killing 18-year-old Naomi Irion back in March.

UPDATE: JULY 28, 2022

Defense lawyers for accused murderer Troy Driver have requested a mental competency evaluation. In a filed motion, "the undersigned counsel believes that good cause exists to refer Mr. Driver for an evaluation to determine whether he is competent." They claim that he may not be able to help in his own defense "with a reasonable degree of rational understanding" as requested by Nevada law.

They further request that any future proceedings be suspended until a decision can be made on whether he is allegedly competent to stand trial.

Also, Driver's lawyers have filed to amend the motion to dismiss his murder charge to include the newly filed sexual assault felony charge.

His lawyers also propose that the Court order a modified briefing schedule to include both of these charges concurrently.

UPDATE: JULY 27, 2022

The Fernley Justice Court reports that Troy Driver has waived his right to an arraignment after the district attorney added a charge of sexual assault against him last week.

2 News has also learned that Driver's attorney has until August 2nd to respond to the DA's opposition to a motion to dismiss the murder charge against him

His preliminary hearing is still set for September 13th, which is the first time he'll appear in court in person.

UPDATE: JUNE 21, 2022

The Lyon County District Attorney is asking the judge to oppose a motion from Troy Driver's attorneys to dismiss the murder charge against him.

Driver is accused of murdering and kidnapping 18-year-old Naomi Irion of Fernley.

Defense lawyers argue that Driver shouldn't be tried in Lyon County since investigators found Irion's body in Churchill County.

In the letter to the judge filed Wednesday, the DA argued that the motion does not provide any factual or legal basis for relief.

The district attorney also asked for a sexual assault charge to be added to the murder and kidnapping charges Driver is already facing.

A preliminary hearing is set for September 13th.

That is also the first time Driver will appear in the courtroom in person.

JULY 5, 2022:

The man suspected of killing Naomi Irion was back in court on Tuesday.

Troy Driver's defense team asked the judge to dismiss his first-degree murder charge.

Driver's attorney says the murder charge should be dropped because the homicide happened in Churchill County arguing that Lyon County doesn't have jurisdiction over that crime.

The prosecution is confident that the case meets the requirements to hold the trial in one venue, including the murder charge.

Driver's evidentiary and preliminary hearings will begin September 13, 2022.

The man accused of kidnapping and killing a woman from Fernley made a quick appearance on Zoom for a status hearing on his case.

The defense asked the pre-trial hearing for Troy Driver to be delayed as they seek more evidence.

The judge agreed to the request and has moved the pre-trial hearing to July 5, 2022.

Troy Driver, accused of killing Naomi Irion, was formally charged with murder and is being held without bail at the Lyon County Jail.

Driver, his defense attorney along with most of the Irion family will be appearing via Zoom.

His arraignment happened Friday, April 8th at a hearing at the Canal Township Justice Court in Fernley. Driver appeared via zoom from Yerington.

The Lyon County District Attorneys Office says Troy Driver fatally shot Naomi Irion before burying her body in the desert, according to an amended criminal complaint.

Lyon County District Attorney Stephen Rye filed the amended criminal complaint Tuesday adding first-degree murder and other crimes to the kidnapping charge already facing 41-year-old Troy Driver.

Driver is accused of kidnapping Irion from the Fernley Walmart parking lot on March 12, and killing her on or before March 25 - the same day Driver was arrested for kidnapping.

Four days later, authorities say investigators acted on a tip and found her body in a grave near the Churchill County line.

Hes now accused of first-degree murder with the use of a deadly weapon, first-degree kidnapping, robbery, burglary of a motor vehicle and destroying evidence, according to the new complaint Rye filed Tuesday in Canal Township Justice Court in Fernley.

Drivers public defender, Mario Walther, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The complaint said Driver shot Irion in Churchill County northeast of Fernley, where he took her for the purpose of committing sexual assault and/or purpose of killing her.

The document also alleged that Driver destroyed her cell phone and left pieces in Lyon, Churchill, Pershing, Humboldt and Eureka counties.

The Lyon County Sheriff's Office says Driver shot Irion in the head and chest.

The local community has been rallying around this family since this all started - there are a couple of events this weekend.

Kim Lovett, a Fernley resident says, "For this to happen is a scary thing, that even in our quiet little sleepy town that we have predators out there that would do something like this."

A devastated community that carried hopes of finding Naomi for weeks, and went on countless searches with her family. They said this outcome wasn't one anyone wanted. Some of the resident we spoke with extended their condolences to Naomi's family, and want them to know they are supported. Tisha Leija, another Fernley resident visibly upset told us, "I can't even imagine... the first thing I thought of was poor mom...poor mom...very sad. "

----------------------------------------------------------

The man accused of kidnapping Naomi Irion will stay in Lyon County Jail on $750,000 bondable bail.

41-year-old Troy E. Driver was arrested and booked into the jail last Friday. He's officially now charged with first degree kidnapping, a felony.

"Should the defendant post bail, he will not be released from custody until a GPS monitoring device is installed," Judge Lori Matheus, Canal Township Justice Court said.

The judge set Driver's preliminary hearing for April 12 for 1:30pm.

Irion's family attended the court hearing.

"It does look like they're going to be posting bail, from what I understand, so he's the only one who can help us bring Naomi home," Casey Valley, Irion's brother said. "He's the only one that we know about."

If he does get released from jail, Driver will be ordered to stay out of Fernley. He also must not contact Irion's family.

Driver has a criminal history. According to old articles in the Ukiah Daily Journal, he pleaded guilty to accessory to murder after the fact for his role in a 1997 homicide in Willits, California. He was 17 years old at the time of the murder. The article says Driver stuffed the body of an alleged drug dealer, Paul Steven Rodriguez in a trunk and then left it in a wooded area. The article says he pleaded guilty to three charges of robbery and one of burglary. A judge sentenced him to 15 years in prison but the article said he could have been released after serving 12.

"It is upsetting to me that there is people out here in the general public that have these capabilities with this kind of past and people should be more aware of that," Naomi's brother, Casey Valley, said. "We talk about sex offenders all the time but where is the list with this guy?"

Deputies also announced Friday, March 25th that Driver's Chevy truck was impounded and is being processed for possible evidence.

This photo below, shows the truck being taken into evidence. David Ausano took the picture from his porch in Fallon, the night of March 25, 2022.

A second public search was organized for Saturday, March 26th, 2022 by Naomi's brother, Casey Valley.

In a Facebook post, he asked community members to gather at Love's Travel Stop on Commerce Center Drive in Fernley, Saturday at 10am. Valley says, "this will be the first of a few areas of a concentrated search." He also requested no pets or children.

During the search on March 26th, more than 110 people showed up to help find Naomi. Diana Irion says she's been getting massages from all over the country from people who want to help her family.

Casey Valley tells us, "Today's search covered more ground, if not just as much, as last weekends search."

--------------------------------------------------------

On Thursday, March 24th, Lyon County Deputies said they identified a potential witness vehicle and occupant(s) that appears in the Walmart parking lot minutes before Naomi was abducted. They say they've contacted the occupant of the car.

The 4-door sedan enters the east Walmart parking lot at approximately 5:15 a.m. and then drives around the median on the east side before parking at the the southeast corner of the Walmart building.

Police were able to locate the vehicle with help from the public.

Irion was last seen March 12th at the parking lot at the Fernley Walmart. Her car was found a few days later and is undergoing processing for possible evidence.

The Lyon County Sheriff's Office held a press conference on Tuesday, along with Irion's family where again they asked for the public's help in finding her, adding they are getting "hundreds" of tips everyday.

They also mentioned that her car, which was found a few days after her disappearance, is still undergoing processing for any related evidence.

Her family also made another plea for help, with her mother saying, "please save my daughter. Bring her home." Because Irion's possible kidnapping happened near I-80, her mother also said that her daughter could be anywhere in the U.S. by now.

Irion's sister and brother also spoke, mentioning that tips to law enforcement can stay anonymous, if need be. He also said that another search will happen this Saturday.

During the weekend, the Lyon County Sheriff's Office released new surveillance video from the Walmart parking lot where Naomi was reportedly last seen.

The footage shows the suspect standing in front of the Walmart entrance, pacing the east side of the building, before walking toward the front of cars with their headlights on.

Authorities say this footage was recorded minutes before Naomi was abducted.

If you were in the east Walmart parking lot between 4:30 and 5:30 a.m. on March 12th, 2022 and have not been contacted by law enforcement, reach out to the Lyon County Sheriffs Office, Major Crimes Bureau.

The Lyon County Sheriffs Office can be reached at 775-463-6620, Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900 or by email at detective@lyon-county.org.

Authorities said a cell phone ping led officers to the Wadsworth area last week.

She was last seen wearing a blue Panasonic company shirt, gray cardigan sweater, gray pants, brown boots and was carrying a black purse. She had an iPhone, Airpods and a fidget spinner.

She is 511 tall, weighs about 230 pounds and has green eyes. Her hair is currently dyed black and she has a septum piercing and smiley face tattoo on her right ankle.

On Thursday, March 17th, Lyon County deputies announced that they were working with the Pyramid Lake Police Department and the FBI near Highway 427 in Wadsworth searching for evidence related to the disappearance of Naomi Irion.

They asked the public to stay away from the area as not to damage any evidence.

Her family made a public plea on Thursday for her safe return.

Authorities also thanked the Fernley community for their help. Her family members said that they are in contact with police about the case's progression.

On Friday, supporters gathered at the Round Table Pizza in Fernley to make signs to post around town in hopes of someone recognizing Irion's photo and calling police with information.

The newest released photos show Irion on the morning she was last seen and also include a person of interest.

The investigation now indicates that the suspect may be driving a dark 2020 or newer Chevrolet, 2500, High Country 4-Door Pickup Truck.

Authorities say the forensic evidence collected by investigators show that her disappearance is 'suspicious' in nature and that the driver of the truck "has a direct connection to her disappearance and her current whereabouts."

Previous video surveillance showed that person walking from a nearby 'homeless camp' looking in cars.

The unknown person then gets into the driver's seat of Irion's Mercury Sable and then leaves with her in the passenger seat.

During the course of the investigation, evidence was discovered leading investigators to believe Naomis disappearance was suspicious in nature.

Her 1992 blue Sable has a Nevada license plate of 595T37 was located in a industrial park in Fernley and has since been searched and forensically analyzed.

The first vehicle photo with the plate is Naomi's actual vehicle. The second vehicle photo is a stock photo and not her actual car.

If you have any information, contact Lyon County Sheriff's Office with case number 22ly01068 at 775-463-6620, or call or text your anonymous tip to Secret Witness at 775-322-4900.


Half Year FY23 Results Announcement

Sydney, Feb 27, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Bigtincan Holdings Limited ( ASX:BTH ) ( BGTHF:OTCMKTS ), a global software company providing a leading AI-powered sales enablement automation platform, has today released its Appendix 4D and is pleased to present commentary on activities in 1H FY23 ("Half") to accompany the lodgement of results for the half year ending 31 December 2022..



1H FY23 Financial Highlights



- ARR $130m at 31 December 2023, with Multi-Hub representing 29% of ARR (up from 17% PcP).



- Revenue $60.2m, 31% Revenue Growth over PcP.



- European region delivered 34% ARR growth vs 1H FY23 after investments in the region during FY22.



- Gross Margin 88%, increased 2% vs PCP showing impacts of adjusted operations



- MRR Retention rate 87% with Net Retention Rate 105%, (Multi-Hub NRR of 120%)



- Cash $54.2m, on track for cash flow break even in Q4 FY23.



- Adj. EBITDA $2.1m, up 74% over PcP, with Full Year FY23 Adj EBITDA forecast to exceed $5m.



- LTV of $878m, rapidly approaching milestone $1B.



- Bigtincan is no longer required to lodge Appendix 4C quarterly reports.



- On track for full year guidance.



1H FY23 Trading Highlights & Outlook



- New product releases across Content, Learning and Engagement Hubs.



- Integrations launched for:



o Native Mac app

o Zoom integration into Bigtincan Meetings



- Acquisition of SalesDirector.ai completed to lead in AI-driven revenue intelligence for sales enablement.



- Morgan Stanley Australia Limited appointed as financial advisor in relation to approaches to the Company.



- $30m institutional capital raise completed to support ongoing growth through the existing M&A program.



Bigtincan Co-Founder and CEO, David Keane, commented on the 1H FY22 results:



"We are pleased to deliver another record ARR result in 1H FY23, with the Company continuing to deliver market leading products, win important customer deals, and progressing our commitment to materially improved adjusted EBITDA. These strong results are due to the work of the global Bigtincan team who continue to deliver for our customers and each other.



In 1H FY23 our Multi-Hub strategy continued to benefit the business with Multi-Hub ARR growing from 17% in the previous corresponding period, to 29% of total ARR at the end of 1H FY23. Multi-Hub ARR grew from $19m to $38m (100%) period over period and at a run rate of $38m in ARR, that makes Bigtincan's Multi-Hub a significant part of our overall business.



Multi-Hub customers are stickier and spend more (109%) than Single Hub customers, and with 14% of the customer base buying a Multi-Hub solution at end 1H FY23 we have the opportunity to continue penetration into the base of existing customers as well as supporting new customer wins, helping Bigtincan to continue to grow its global business."



ARR Growth



ARR continued to grow in 1H FY23 passing $130m as Bigtincan benefited from the combination of the organic growth strategy, Multi-Hub transition, and the small scale M&A program. This continues the growth strategy of the company with ARR growth in all regions.



Business Recognition, Vertical and Regional Progression



Bigtincan continued to demonstrate the value of its technology, receiving key industry awards in the Half including;



- 2022 Aragon Research Innovation Award for Sales Enablement



2022 Product of the Year "SAMMY" Award for Sales and Marketing Technology



- 2022 SoftwareReviews Emotional Footprint Award, Sales Enablement Software Champion



- 2022 Silver Stevie Award for Sales & Customer Service



- 2022 SoftwareReviews Sales Enablement Gold Medalist and Leader



These awards are helpful for investors to understand the progression of the Company and its core technology.



Bigtincan continued to build on its diversified recurring revenue model as growth outside the USA accelerated with the European region growing 34% over PcP to hit a record of $15.6m in ARR, and verticalization continued with Retail growing 21% as the retail market grows again post pandemic.



Investor Webinar



Bigtincan Holdings Limited is pleased to invite shareholders and investors to attend a webinar where management will provide an overview of the Half Year Results for the period ending 31 December 2022. The webinar will be hosted via Zoom at 11:30 am (AEDT) on Monday 27th February 2023/ USA Sunday 26 February 7.30 pm EST.



Details of the event are as follows:



Event: Bigtincan Holdings Limited 1H FY23 Investor Webinar

Presenters: Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, David Keane, Global Financial Controller, Cyril Desouza, Chief Product Officer Stefan Teulon, and Head of Marketing Operations, Denise Iverson.



Date and Time: Monday 27th February 2023 at 11:30 am AEDT (USA 7:30 pm EST 26 February)

Where: Zoom Webinar - details to be provided upon registration



To register your interest for the webinar please click through to the link below:

https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/0KL939MM



To view the Investor Presentation, please visit:

https://www.abnnewswire.net/lnk/19YP384Q





About Bigtincan Holdings Limited





Bigtincan Holdings Limited (ASX:BTH) (OTCMKTS:BTGHF) is helping the world's leading brands facilitate the buying experience of the future. Everything we offer is designed to be smart, flexible, and easily adapted to unique business processes with highly personalised experiences that people and brands love. We're on a mission to help companies deliver branded buying experiences that are engaging, personalised, provide value and guide people to the best decisions with confidence. Innovative companies like Nike, Guess, Prudential, and Starwood Hotels trust Bigtincan to enable customer-facing teams to intelligently prepare, engage, measure and continually improve the buying experience for their customers. For more information about Bigtincan, visit: www.bigtincan.com or follow @bigtincan on Twitter.
The FBI is still offering a reward for information regarding a 67-year-old man found dead on the Navajo Nation almost five years ago.

Herbert Whitehorses body was discovered in an arroyo in Shiprock on May 3, 2018, an autopsy determined he died of blunt force trauma, according to the FBIs website.

Whitehorse was last seen alive in April of 2018 in the Shiprock area.

He was born in Colorado in 1951 and is described as a 5-foot-6-inch Native American man weighing 130 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

The FBI is offering a reward of $5,000 to anyone with information that can lead to the arrest,and conviction of the culprit, or culprits.

Tips can be submitted online, or by contacting your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.
Chinese-funded course helps protect cultural heritages in Afghanistan

Xinhua) 15:48, February 25, 2023

BAMYAN, Afghanistan, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- In central Afghanistan's Bamyan Valley, where stands the famous Buddhas of Bamyan, Mohammad Ali Hasanyar was teaching local kids how to preserve the world's invaluable civilization in front of the Buddha site.

Bamyan province is famous for many cultural heritages, particularly the two widely-known giant Buddhas. The 53-meter and 35-meter tall Buddha statues, with thousands of caves for monk statues around them, are more than 1,500 years old -- reminders of the Buddhist civilization in the region.

In 2003, the cultural landscape and archaeological remains of the Bamyan Valley was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

However, due to years of war and economic hardships, locals, many of whom even moved into caves, know little about the nearby World Cultural Heritage.

Hasanyar, in his 30s, is a local archaeologist. His courses are founded and guided by a group of young scholars from China's Peking University, Lanzhou University, Wenzhou University, the Central Academy of Fine Arts, and the Hong Kong-based non-profit Friends of Dunhuang.

According to Shao Xuecheng, a member of Friends of Dunhuang, kids from impoverished families were invited to attend the training activities on relevant knowledge by distributing bread.

"Thirty-seven students have been registered in the archeology course, which meets once a week, and the students are taught how to preserve ancient civilization and cultural heritages," Hasanyar told Xinhua.

Hasanyar thought these Chinese-funded courses are a good way to build public awareness of cultural heritage protection.

"It is a very important project because if we want to create a mentality in the society to protect cultural heritages, we have to start with children first," he said.

"I like coming here very much since our teacher has taught us a lot about the Buddha site," Hamida, 12, said after class. "I know that these are world cultural heritages and need to be protected now."

In addition, with specific suggestions and financial support from Chinese scholars, most of the caves near the Buddha site have been officially numbered and installed with introduction nameplates.

Expressing gratitude to the Chinese scholars, the provincial director for Information and Culture of Bamyan province, Saifulrahman Mohammadi, told Xinhua, "Chinese scholars have done a good job in preserving cultural heritages here and we are thankful to them."

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liu Ning)
(CNN)  At least 63 people including an infant, children and several women, died after a wooden boat carrying migrants broke apart on rocks off the coast of Calabria, Italian authorities say.

The death toll is provisional and likely to rise.

Bad weather in that part of the Mediterranean sea is hampering search efforts by making the field of debris larger.

The first three bodies washed up on the beach near Staccato di Cutro in Southern Italy around 4:40 a.m. local time Sunday.

The vessel left The Turkish city of Izmir three or four days ago, with 140 to 150 people on board, Reuters reported.

Around 80 people were saved from the water clinging on to pieces of the boat, Italys fire brigade told CNN. The survivors were from Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan, they added.

The breakdown of migrants by gender and ages who have died are set to be released soon, the Prefect of Crotone office of Manuela Curra told CNN. They added the number of people missing has not yet been established.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed human traffickers. It is criminal to launch a boat just 20 meters long with 200 people on board in adverse weather, she said in a statement. It is inhumane to exchange the lives of men, women and children for the price of a ticket under the false perspective of a safe journey.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi added that new measures must be instituted to reduce such perilous journeys. It is essential to continue with every possible initiative to stop departures and discourage crossings in any way which takes advantage of the illusory mirage of a better life, he said in a statement.

Meloni made stopping migrant boats a priority of her hard-right government. This week parliament approved new laws making it more difficult for NGOs to carry out rescues.

In Vatican City on Sunday, in reference to the victims of the shipwreck, Pope Francis said: I pray for each of them, for the missing, and for the other migrants who survived. I thank those who are helping them and those who are giving them assistance. May the Virgin Mary help these brothers and sisters.

UNHCR records show that 11,874 people have arrived in Italy so far in 2023 by sea, with 678 of them arriving at Calabria.

Typically, arrivals are from African countries, rather than the Middle East and Asia, with the majority of boats setting off from Libya.

Only 8.3% of arrivals are from Pakistan, 6.7% from Afghanistan and 0.7% from Iran. The rest are primarily from Africa, with 17.3% of arrivals from Ivory Coast alone, 13.1% from Guinea. Other African nations, including North African countries, make up most of the rest.

The most deadly migration route is the Central Mediterranean route, where at least 20,334 people have died since 2014, according to the International Organization for Migrations Missing Migrants Project.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Children and women among 63 dead as migrant boat hits rocks near Italy"
The past five years have been monumental for New Mexicos clean energy transition. Our state touts itself as a pioneer in state-led clean energy movements, but we need to ensure we stick to our promise that no New Mexican is left behind. Creating economic and clean-energy benefits does not have to be an either-or proposition.

I hope my colleagues in the Legislature are able to see that we can craft ambitious clean energy policy while ensuring more finite legislation, such as Senate Bill 432, otherwise known as the Low-income Solar Act, uplifts all constituents to truly drive home our pledge.

New Mexico has seen booming growth in its transition from an oil-dependent state to one touting an array of clean energy options including solar, thanks in part to work done by our legislature and governor. Rising from 30th in the nation for solar power in 2021 to 21st in 2022, the Land of Enchantment saw a 15-fold increase in megawatts installed this past year alone. Recent analysis shows the benefits of rooftop solar are beginning to reach low-income households, too. However, New Mexico still restricts renters and low-income residential building projects from adopting solar onsite. Im hoping we can start to change that this year with my introduction of the Low-income Solar Act.

Already dealing with an affordable housing crisis, disproportionate effects of fossil fuel pollution and expensive utility bills, why should those less fortunate in our state be left without a choice in where their energy comes from? New Mexicos Legislature has the ability to pass and enact targeted policies to ensure equitable access to onsite solar across the state and income spectrum.

Taking advantage of the historic federal IRA investment tax credits for solar, SB 432 would connect affordable housing units to the statewide clean energy movement. By enabling onsite net energy metering (NEM) for qualifying low-income residential building projects, the act allows the tenants to receive the benefits of the 20% income tax added on top of the 30% investment tax credit reauthorized by the IRA for solar installations. The IRA requires the financial benefits of the solar systems must be allocated equitably among the tenants, ensuring this often-overlooked population of constituents gets in on the energy savings. This sort of legislation has seen success already in other states but is not broadly available across the country, so New Mexico could lead the pack in ensuring a truly equitable system for solar access.

For single-family households, SB 432 would ensure equitable tax rates for onsite solar. In 2010, our state cleared the path for rooftop solar by exempting customer-owned systems from property taxation. Many families cannot afford the up-front cost of rooftop solar, typically ranging from $15,000-20,000, or lack access to financing to own the system. Those households often choose a solar lease or a power purchase agreement, where a third-party owns and manages the system. As it currently stands, those leased systems are taxed as business personal property, which raises the cost of leasing solar for these households. Research shows third-party owned solar can be a great entry point for low-income households to benefit from immediate utility savings. Leased solar systems are a key driver to expanding access to rooftop solar across the country, and none of the top 20 states for residential solar add a discriminatory tax on solar systems using a lease or power purchasing agreement.

Why cant New Mexico be another?

For New Mexicans, supporting SB 432 means doing the nitty-gritty work to ensure all those who want to participate in the clean energy transition can. With bills like this, our state can continue leading on renewable energy innovation. We have the power to shape our clean energy future with the legislation we pass now.

Empowering all our constituents no matter the roof over their head to feel pride in supporting a greener New Mexico while saving hard-earned money on utilities is a no-brainer.
Socorro County commissioners have committed to significantly lower spending on local senior centers from county funds, and 12 county employees may lose their jobs as the local senior services program changes hands.

The Non-Metro Area Agency on Aging terminated Socorro Countys contract to operate the senior centers, because the county began using detention center inmates to prepare food without notifying the agency and allowing them to vet the inmate work program before it was implemented.

Socorro County commissioners discussed the future of the senior services program during an emergency meeting Tuesday.

Monica Abeita, the executive director of the North Central New Mexico Economic Development District, had already spoken with the city of Socorros mayor earlier in the day.

She came before the commissioners to find out how much senior center funding Socorro County will tentatively commit to. With a rough financial commitment from the county, she can work out a proposal with the potential new program provider about how it will run the program.

She asked the county for $240,000, including $150,000 in cash and $90,000 in-kind services. Funding for the centers also comes from federal, state and city dollars.

Among other things, the county has paid for insurance, utilities and maintenance costs at the senior center buildings.

However, the Socorro County commissioners and county manager Michael Hawkes have been raising concerns about the cost of running the senior center program for at least a year, asking for more state funding and a lowered financial contribution from the county.

With operations being taken away from the county and no guarantee the existing senior center employees will be able to keep their jobs, the commissioners only committed to matching the city of Socorros financial support for the program with $15,000 cash and use of the Socorro County owned senior center buildings in Veguita and Magdalena.

The county had declined to sign the RFP to continue running the senior programs last June because of the cost, but the county agreed to several extensions to keep running the program, hopeful that the legislature would provide more funding, Hawkes said in a follow-up interview.

The state provided approximately $320,000-$350,000 in funding for the full fiscal year, Hawkes said, while the county will have spent at least $300,000 by mid-March and was expected to spend over the state contribution by the end of the fiscal year.

Im kind of amiss why theyre still wanting the county to put in the brunt of the money, when you have an incorporated city where most of the services are taking place, 85 percent, Hawkes said. I dont understand why the state isnt asking the city to be fiscal agent and do the (insurance) coverage and to put in the 200 and some thousand. The county would be glad to put in their fair share, 15 percent of the overall operational costs.

Who will take over operating the senior centers?

The potential new provider considering taking over senior center operations in Socorro County is Adelante, a senior care and services nonprofit that already runs senior center programs elsewhere in the state.

Adelante has previously approached the county with an offer to run the Socorro County program, Hawkes told the commissioners. According to Hawkes, that previous offer included employing nine of the existing senior center employees and proposed reducing senior center hours and services to reduce program cost.

Abeita emphasized that Adelante is not the only provider that was approached about taking over the Socorro program, just the only provider interested in doing so.

The county contract will end March 17, and the operations handover is scheduled for March 18.

Inmate work program stopped

Trusties began preparing meals in the senior center kitchen Feb. 6, and the county stopped using the work program by Feb. 10, immediately after Non-Metro AAA told them to stop.

Abeita said that there are some situations where the trusties working could have been appropriate, and Non-Metro AAA would have been willing to review and work on a program with the county, but the agency found out about the work program secondhand after it had already been implemented.

We ran the names we have through New Mexico courts and these did not seem like individuals that were safe to be working in a senior center. Thats all review that should have been done ahead of time, she said.

The contract was terminated because they felt the liability was too high to the organization, the state and seniors, said Abeita.

Athena Gassoumis with the R.I.S.E. program, which vetted the trusties, spoke to make sure it was on the record that the work program followed every correctional facility guideline and detention center guideline to ensure community safety.

So yes, if you look at peoples background checks that are at the detention center, well, are they going to be golden? Absolutely not, but thats the whole point of the program, is for them to give back, Gassoumis said.

She acknowledged that protocol may not have been followed with notifying Non-Metro AAA but said the work program had been a win-win, saving the county money on labor and giving the trusties something to look forward to.

They cried when the plug was pulled, she said.

Read more about the senior centers on El Defensor Chieftain website.
James Mountain, from Pueblo de San Ildefonso, emcees an event in the Rotunda of the Roundhouse for American Indian Day at the Legislature in February 2023. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham named Mountain the new secretary designate of the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department. (Eddie Moore/Albuquerque Journal)

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams appointment of a former San Ildefonso Pueblo governor to lead the states Indian Affairs Department could be in peril as members of the states Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Relatives Task Force, and a Navajo state senator, say they will fight his nomination.

The appointment of James R. Mountain to head an agency tasked with addressing violence against Native American women despite a rape charge against him 15 years ago, later dismissed, provoked outrage and sometimes tearful reactions from members during a task force meeting on Wednesday. The task force is one of four initiatives prominently highlighted on the agencys website.



Two members said they might resign from the task force if Mountain is confirmed, and other members supported seeking a meeting with Lujan Grisham to protest Mountains nomination.



Our governor of the state needs to know that we are not OK with this, Nambe Pueblo victim/legal advocate Chastity Sandoval said.



On Thursday, Lujan Grishams Director of Communications Maddy Hayden said the governor does not intend to withdraw Mountains nomination.



We hope that those who are leveling these concerns would respect the judicial process and acknowledge the results, Hayden wrote in an email.



Mountains appointment, announced by the governor on Feb. 3, must be confirmed by the state Senate while in session. The 2023 legislative session ends on March 18.



Navajo Nation Council Delegate Amber Kanazbah Crotty said the task force is committed to creating a safe space for sexual assault survivors and building trust with families of missing and murdered Indigenous people. She expressed dismay over the nomination.



I understand that we dont have control over that decision, but what control we have is how we create a safe space in this task force and how we want to move forward to the work for the families, Crotty said. Im just at the point where I feel, do I need to resign from this task force?



New Mexico has the most missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in the nation, according to a task force report from December 2020. Albuquerque ranked second for such cases out of 71 cities the Urban Indian Health Institute surveyed in 2017. Gallup ranked sixth.



It shouldnt just be this task force to raise this issue, Crotty said. And I think the silence from other leadership is deafening at this point. And that also is pretty hurtful.



State Sen. Shannon Pinto, a Democrat from Tohatchi and member of the Navajo Nation, told participants shes been fighting Mountains appointment since Saturday, meeting with him and with Lujan Grisham. Shes also talking with her fellow lawmakers to stop the appointment.



Ive been fighting this, will fight it til the end, said Pinto, who acts as a policy adviser to the task force. Theres not any compromise for me in it to support it in any manner. Its just not something that can happen right now. This is not the time. This is not the place. This is not the position that can be compromised, as far as the figurehead representing Native American people within our state.



Mountain, a former governor and supreme court justice of San Ildefonso Pueblo, was accused of rape in 2007. He was indicted on charges of criminal sexual penetration, kidnapping and aggravated battery against a household member in 2008, but the case was dismissed in 2010 because the prosecution said it had insufficient evidence to proceed to trial. The court record was put under seal.



Mountain responded to the task force members concerns through an agency spokesperson on Thursday.



I recognize how upset and disappointed our community members are as a result of these past allegations and charges, which are understandably bringing up the trauma that far too many Native women have suffered, Mountain said in a statement, noting that the charges were dismissed.



I have dedicated myself to reestablish connections and confidence among our tribal communities, including by serving as the governor of the Pueblo de San Ildefonso, he said. I am committed to making things right and continuing the healing process with our community members, advocates, and legislators. He added that hes had conversations with task force members, lawmakers, and tribal leaders.



Hayden did not answer a question about whether the governors office reached out to task force members for input prior to the appointment, but noted that the governor is aware of the case and that the charges were dropped.



Secretary-designate Mountain has worked within and across tribal communities for many years, including the last two with this administration, where he has been integral in carrying out many of the top priorities of the pueblos, tribes and nations of New Mexico, Hayden said in the email.



Former Indian Affairs Secretary Lynn Trujillo chaired the task force before she left the agency in November. Now task force members are concerned Mountain might step into that role. But even if he agrees to not chair the task force, some members said he isnt suitable to lead the Indian Affairs Department.



Pinto told New Mexico In Depth she learned about Mountains arrest on the day of his appointment, and started hearing from concerned members of her community on the Navajo Nation the day after. They sent links to a news article that was published at the time of his arrest, she said.



The Legislature created the task force in 2019 and the group published a response plan in 2022.



This story was originally published by New Mexico In Depth.
SANTA FE  As a physician and Cabinet secretary, it was often up to David Scrase to explain the mechanics of virus transmission and medical care as the pandemic arrived in New Mexico.

He was the states own Dr. Fauci  as the governor called him  appearing in public briefings to speak about infection rates, face masks and hospital capacity.

But as Scrase, 70, enters retirement, responding to the COVID-19 pandemic doesnt top his list of proudest accomplishments.

Instead, he is most proud, he said, of the states work to end what was once a decade-long wait for families seeking services under the Developmental Disabilities Waiver program. In October, the state  backed by extra federal funding  offered help to the remaining 3,450 people on the waiting list.

Now Scrase is turning to less-expansive goals. In retirement, which started last week, he plans to catch up on seeing patients as a physician in geriatric medicine at the University of New Mexico Hospital, travel with his family and sleep in an extra hour  to 5 a.m.

Retirement comes after more than four years as secretary of the Human Services Department and more than one year leading the Department of Health, making him the rare Cabinet head to lead two agencies at once.

Never in my wildest dreams did I think Id work more hours in a week than when I was a medical intern, Scrase told the Journal in a recent interview.

Medical residents and trainees have been known to put in 100 hours during a work week.

Not everybodys cup of tea

The departure of Scrase comes at a critical time for Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who has lost three Cabinet secretaries since the 60-day legislative session started last month.

Some agencies, such as the Public Education and Health departments, have had a revolving-door of leadership changes, prompting bipartisan concern among lawmakers about the stability atop key agencies.

It sounds like shes a little hard to work with, Senate Minority Whip Craig Brandt, R-Rio Rancho, said last month.

Scrase, for his part, said he didnt find Lujan Grisham difficult to work for.

But I think she has really, really high standards, he said. Shes obsessed with making things better for New Mexicans and has a sense of urgency to get things done that I think is not everybodys cup of tea.

At HSD, Scrase led the agency that administers the states Medicaid program and grocery assistance for needy families, providing services that reach about 1.1 million people, or half the states population.

Two days after the announcement of Scrases retirement plans, the state canceled its procurement process for awarding new contracts to deliver Medicaid services. The Lujan Grisham administration cited the departure of Scrase and Medicaid Director Nicole Comeaux  who had announced plans to leave a few days before Scrase  in halting the process, a move intended to let new HSD leadership evaluate the design of the procurement.

Deputy Secretary Kari Armijo is now the agencys interim leader.

Scrase said the timing of his departure was tied to a family health emergency that took him out of town.

He had talked to the governor about retirement last summer, he said, and had initially planned to step down after the session. But the family matter required immediate attention, he said.

Explaining the science

Scrase was in the first group of Cabinet secretaries announced by Lujan Grisham in 2018, a month after she won election.

But it was the pandemic that thrust him into public view.

Starting in March 2020, Scrase participated in high-profile public briefings  broadcast online, often more than once a week.

He was often the state official charged with explaining statistical analysis and medical research.

We joked sometimes that the COVID years are like dog years, Scrase said, each one adding up to seven years.

Scrase said he handled the stress, in part, by waking up an hour earlier to make sure he had extra time to exercise, read, write in his journal and meditate.

Handling the pandemic, he said, took a toll on all public health workers, a factor in high vacancy rates in New Mexico and similar agencies throughout the country.

It may not top the list, but Scrase considers the states pandemic response as a significant accomplishment.

There was a once-in-a-100-year event, Scrase said. The ability of everyone to come together in state government to be a team and get so much done and be as agile as we were is something Ill always remember.

But next on the agenda is some time with his grandchildren, perhaps travel to Europe, teaching and treating patients.

Ill be a busy guy, Scrase said.


NEW YORK (AP)  Republican presidential contenders typically fight for prime speaking slots at the Conservative Political Action Conference. But as conservative activists gather in suburban Washington this week, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will be courting donors more than a thousand miles away in Texas and California.

The apparent CPAC snub is nothing new for DeSantis, who has emerged in the early phase of the 2024 presidential election as a leading contender for the GOP nomination even as he ignores many conventions of modern politics.

DeSantis is a frequent voice in conservative cultural fights on cable television, but he often avoids gatherings of fellow Republican governors and party leaders, who are quick to complain in private about his go-it-alone approach. He is the only top-tier presidential prospect yet to court voters in Iowa, New Hampshire or South Carolina, the states hosting the GOPs opening presidential primary contests. And he is often at odds with the press, refusing even to notify local media of last weeks rare three-state tour with law enforcement.

Indeed, as DeSantis moves toward a White House run, it is becoming increasingly clear that the 44-year-old Republican governor will manage his presidential aspirations in his own way, on his own timeline, with or without allies in national GOP leadership or relationships with the press.

DeSantis has, in his style and the actions hes taken as governor, shown a willingness to fight the traditional powers that be, the establishment, said David McIntosh, president of the Club for Growth, an influential conservative group based in Washington. McIntosh described DeSantis style as refreshing and suggested the GOP is ready to move on from former President Donald Trump.

For now, DeSantis is perhaps the most potent threat to Trumps effort to win the GOP nomination for the third time. The Club for Growth will host DeSantis among a half-dozen presidential prospects at a closed-door retreat in Florida next weekend with top donors. Trump is not invited.

Meanwhile, DeSantis has quietly begun to expand his political coalition on his terms just as he releases a book, The Courage to be Free, which comes out Tuesday.

He spent the weekend huddled behind closed doors at a south Florida luxury hotel for a Freedom Blueprint retreat with more than 100 donors, elected officials and conservative influencers. The attendees included former Trump chief of staff Mick Mulvaney, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton and Texas-based donor Roy Bailey, a former member of Trumps national finance committee.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt and Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee were also in attendance, along with Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, Utah Sen. Mike Lee, Texas Rep. Chip Roy and Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie.

Fox News host Laura Ingraham hosted a fireside chat with DeSantis on Sunday before he joined a fighting back against woke discussion with Chaya Raichik, who runs the Libs of TikTok social media account.

Details from the gathering were disclosed by participants who requested anonymity to discuss the the private event.

Trump was largely ignored throughout the weekend retreat, although conservative commentator Ann Coulter seized on his failure to build a wall spanning the entire U.S.-Mexico border during a Saturday panel discussion with DeSantis on border security, according to one person in the room. She accused the former president of never actually wanting to build it in the first place.

In the coming days and weeks, DeSantis will use the release of his book to introduce himself to voters beyond Florida, having established his political dominance there last fall by winning reelection by more than 19 percentage points.

He is expected to make his first appearances in key states on the primary calendar such as Iowa and New Hampshire in the coming weeks in addition to general election battlegrounds like Georgia and Pennsylvania. Last week, he made surprise stops in New York City, Philadelphia and Chicago to court law enforcement leaders, although the events were private and he did not notify local media.

The Florida governor is already scheduled to headline two Republican fundraisers in Texas on Saturday. The next day hell speak at a $500-a-head reception for the GOP of Orange County, California. Hell serve as the keynote speaker for the Alabama GOP the following week.

While he has begun to expand his profile, DeSantis has done far less than most of the early 2024 class to connect with primary voters and would-be allies in key states.

He has long avoided gatherings of Republican governors or top GOP officials, who privately condemn his approach as arrogant. Hes never set foot in Iowa.

Former New Hampshire GOP chair Jennifer Horn noted that Republican primary voters often embrace anti-establishment candidates who are willing to create their own lane or take their own path.

But when youre running for president, and in this environment, I think he has to be careful not to be a victim of his own arrogance, she said. He has this belief that he knows better than everyone about everything, and thats never a good thing.

Meanwhile, DeSantis team feels no urgency to enter the 2024 contest, which already features three Republican candidates. Trump announced three months ago.

Hes also shown no interest in responding to Trumps increasingly personal attacks, which include recent social media posts suggesting that DeSantis behaved inappropriately with underage girls when he briefly taught high school in his early 20s.

Trump refers to the Florida governor as Ron DeSanctimonious and Meatball Ron.

By contrast, DeSantis in his new book actually credits Trump for helping him win the Florida governorship in 2018.

I knew that a Trump endorsement would provide me with the exposure to GOP primary voters across the State of Florida, and I was confident that many would see me as a good candidate once they learned about my record, DeSantis writes, according to an early copy obtained by the Guardian.

Trumps increasing focus on DeSantis may unintentionally help the Florida governor by defining him as the strongest Republican Trump alternative, according to Sam Nunberg, a former Trump aide turned critic.

Look, Donald is worried, and if I was working for him, Id say he needs to update the playbook, Nunberg said.

In the meantime, DeSantis is focused on expanding his conservative agenda in Floridas looming state legislative session, which runs from March through May.

Already, he has pushed to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs from Floridas public universities and colleges. Among his other priorities: allowing people to carry guns in public without a permit; weakening laws protecting journalists from lawsuits; and cracking down on illegal immigration, including a plan to eliminate in-state tuition for college students in the country illegally.

In a nod to his political strength, DeSantis is under attack from a growing group of Republican rivals.

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu publicly condemned DeSantis decision to use the levers of government to punish private businesses like Disney that push back against his policy priorities. South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noems team has criticized DeSantis record on abortion as insufficiently conservative.

DeSantis did himself no favors inside the Republican National Committee last month when he publicly sided with RNC Chair Ronna McDaniels challenger during her bitter reelection fight. McDaniel easily won reelection to her post.

We are going to move forward. And thats what Im focused on, McDaniel said Sunday on CNNs State of the Union when asked about her relationship with DeSantis. The one thing Republicans can do to make sure we dont win is fight each other all the time.

___

This story has been corrected to show Noem is governor of South Dakota, not North Dakota.
HAWARA, West Bank (AP)  A suspected Palestinian gunman on Monday shot and killed an Israeli motorist in the occupied West Bank, the latest bloodshed in a fresh wave of fighting that showed no signs of slowing.

The killing occurred a day after two Israelis were killed by a Palestinian gunman in the northern West Bank, triggering a rampage in which Israeli settlers torched dozens of cars and homes in a Palestinian town and one Palestinian was killed. It was the worst such violence in decades.

The Israeli army said Mondays attackers opened fire at an Israeli car near the Palestinian city of Jericho, hitting the motorist.

The assailants, traveling in one vehicle, then drove further and fired again, the army said. The attackers set their own vehicle afire and fled, setting off a manhunt.

The 27-year-old Israeli motorist was transferred to Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, where he later died of his injuries, the hospital said. The man was not immediately identified, but the U.S. ambassador to Israel, Tom Nides, said the man held American citizenship.

Earlier, Israel sent hundreds more troops to the northern West Bank to restore calm after Sundays violence.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, the most right-wing in Israels history, came under criticism for its failure to halt a surge in violence and for sending what some saw as mixed messages. As Netanyahu appealed for calm, a member of his ruling coalition praised the rampage as deterrence against Palestinian attacks.

The Israeli army also came under criticism for its failure to move quickly to stop the rioting, the worst such violence in decades.

The government needs to decide what it is, veteran columnist Nahum Barnea wrote in the Yediot Ahronot newspaper. Is it resolved to enforce law and order on Arabs and Jews alike? Or is it a fig leaf for the hilltop youth, who do as they please in the territories? That same question also applies to the army, which has thus far failed to deal effectively with either Palestinian terrorism or Jewish terrorism.

The events also underscored the limitations of the traditional U.S. approach to the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Washington has been trying to prevent escalation while staying away from the politically costly task of pushing for a resolution of the core disputes.

As the violence raged in the West Bank, such an attempt at conflict management was taking place Sunday in Jordan, with the U.S. bringing together Israeli and Palestinian officials to work out a plan for de-escalation.

Sundays events kicked off when a Palestinian gunman shot and killed brothers Hillel and Yagel Yaniv, ages 21 and 19, from the Jewish settlement of Har Bracha, in a shooting ambush in the Palestinian town of Hawara in the northern West Bank. The gunman fled and remained on the loose late Monday. The brothers were buried in Jerusalem.

Following the shooting, groups of settlers rampaged along the main thoroughfare in Hawara, which is used by both Palestinians and Israeli settlers. In one video, a crowd of settlers stood in prayer as they stared at a building in flames.

Late Sunday, a 37-year-old Palestinian was shot and killed by Israeli fire, two Palestinians were shot and wounded and another was beaten with an iron bar, Palestinian health officials said. Some 95 Palestinians were being treated for tear gas inhalation, according to medics.

On Monday morning, the Hawara thoroughfare was lined with rows of burned-out cars and smoke-blackened buildings. Normally bustling shops remained shuttered. Palestinian media said some 30 homes and cars were torched.

Sultan Farouk Abu Sris, a shop owner in Hawara, said he briefly went outside and saw scores of settlers setting containers and a home on fire. Its destruction. They came bearing hatred, he said.

At the scene of the shooting, Defense Minister Yoav Galant told reporters that Israel cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their hands, but stopped short of outright condemning the violence.

Shahar Glick, a reporter for Israels army radio station who was in Hawara, said security forces blocked the roads into town, but were caught off guard when 200 to 300 settlers entered on foot.

He said only a handful of police and soldiers were there, even after activists had publicized the march on social media. The area is home to a number of hard-line settlements whose residents frequently vandalize Palestinian land and property.

Some police, Glick said, even wished the protesters well, telling them to take care of themselves.

For the journalists, It was clear to us from the outset, as we walked behind them, that this incident was developing, Glick said. It took a long time for the security forces to understand.

Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, an Israeli military spokesman, said the army deployed hundreds of additional troops to the area with the aim of de-escalation. Two battalions were sent late Sunday and two more on Monday, with several hundred soldiers each.

The situation remained quiet late Monday, though the army reported several cases of settler violence toward soldiers. In one instance, it said an Israeli driver tried to ram a military officer. It said soldiers fired at the tires of the vehicle, which sped away.

Israeli police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said eight Israelis were detained in connection with Sundays rioting. Six were released and two were released to home arrest, he said.

Speaking at a settlement outpost reoccupied by Jewish settlers after Sundays shooting, the firebrand Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power party, called for a real war on terrorism and legalizing the outpost, which troops were once again clearing.

As for the settler violence, he added: I understand the hard feelings, but this isnt the way, we cant take the law into our hands.

Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog urged settlers not to engage in vigilante actions. Merav Michaeli of the opposition Labor Party condemned the rampage as a pogrom by armed militias of West Bank settlers.

In the ruling coalition, some fanned the flames.

Tzvika Foghel, a lawmaker from Ben-Gvirs party, said the rampage would help deter Palestinian attacks. I see the result in a very good light, he told Army Radio.

Sundays violence has drawn condemnation from the international community. U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price said the shooting attack and the rampage underscore the imperative to immediately de-escalate tensions in words and deeds.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he held the Israeli government responsible for what he called the terrorist acts carried out by settlers under the protection of the occupation forces tonight.

The Palestinians claim the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip  areas captured by Israel in the 1967 Mideast war  for a future state. Some 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. The international community overwhelmingly considers Israels settlements as illegal and obstacles to peace.

So far this year, 62 Palestinians, about half of them affiliated with armed groups, have been killed by Israeli troops and civilians. In the same period, 14 Israelis, all but one of them civilians, have been killed in Palestinian attacks.

Last year was the deadliest for the Palestinians in the West Bank and east Jerusalem since 2004, according to the Israeli rights group BTselem. Nearly 150 Palestinians were killed in those areas, Some 30 people on the Israeli side were killed in Palestinian attacks.

___

Ben Zion reported from Jerusalem.
Theres a lot that goes into making the humble greeting card.

For a customer, a greeting cards journey starts in a shop and ends with a stamp.

But at greeting card company Next Chapter Studio, which opened a storefront this month at 109 Hermosa SE, the process looks a little different.

And Lauren Harms and Brian Gilbreath, owners of Next Chapter Studio, want you to be able to see the whole process. In fact, the storefront, which is connected to their warehouse and production facility, is connected by glass windows so customers can peek in on the process.

I wanted it to feel kind of like a candy shop, you know, where you can see them making the candy in the back, Harms said.

A candy shop is apt  the storefront practically glows, lit by a neon sign and fluorescent candy-hued cards. Behind the shop, thousands of cards, neatly stuffed into green envelopes, line the shelves.

The couple uses risograph printing to make their cards in-house. Invented in Japan in the 1980s, risograph printers became popular in churches and schools for printing programs, tests and flyers due to their high efficiency and long lifespan. The printing technique is known for its characteristic vivid colors.

But the process is rarely used to make greeting cards.

(It) seemed like a way to share riso printing with a lot of people, Harms said. Its becoming more familiar in the past couple years, but when I was first starting out, like, a lot of people hadnt heard about it. But everyone loves the colors and theyre just really attracted to it. So I thought cards would be an affordable and easy way to spread that.

Rosie and Ruby, Next Chapters risograph machines, hum along in the warehouse.

The process starts with uploading a digital design in black and white into the printer, which is burned onto a sheet of rice paper using a series of tiny holes. The rice paper master print is wrapped around a cylinder, known as a drum, which is filled with soy- and vegetable-based ink. The cylinder rolls across each sheet of paper at high speed, reproducing the master on hundreds of pieces of paper per minute. Each color is printed on top of the others, layered to make a complete design.

From there, Harms and Gilbreath cut the printed paper into cards, score the cards to get a neat line down the middle, fold the cards and stuff them into their signature green envelopes.

Harms, who has a background in graphic design, used to work as a book cover designer in the publishing industry in New York. In 2017, she took a printing class and fell in love with art.

Harms said she and Gilbreath fell into the greeting card business in 2018, printing and selling cards out of their Brooklyn apartment. In 2020, the couple moved to Albuquerque, and brought their business with them.

Harms and Gilbreaths work might seem familiar; thats because their cards are sold at several Albuquerque businesses already, including Flyby Provisions and Luna & Luz  as well as more than 300 shops around the country. The pair have designed and produced cards for even larger companies like Google and TJ Maxx.

The couple makes all of their designs using just 12 colors. Each drum can only hold one ink color, and the drums are the most expensive part of the risograph process, costing about $1,000 each. But using different ink intensities, the colors can be blended together into a gradient.

I get most excited about the color and the color combinations, and when other people respond to it, Harms, whos partial to the fluorescent pink ink, said. Thats what makes it all worth it  my favorite designs are usually the more simple ones.

When Gilbreath and Harms first started printing, they used just six colors. But theyve doubled that number, and even expanded into making notebooks and calendars as well as cards and posters.

I think Laurens pushing the boundaries of what riso can do, Gilbreath said.
Raucous winds that toppled trees, whipped up dust storms and redistributed tumbleweeds in the last week also knocked out the power for large numbers of Public Service Company of New Mexico customers  sometimes thousands at a time.

As of 10:45 a.m. Monday, nearly 700 customers were still without power due to 223 outages.

And while Monday is a bit calmer in the Albuquerque area, high winds are expected to be back mid-week.

So for New Mexicans sitting at home in the dark, how long should they expect it to take to get the lights back on? Eric Chavez, a spokesman for the utility, said in an email that it could depend on where a pole was knocked down  and some types of repairs have to wait until the wind dies down.

Heres a Q&A with Chavez about what repairs can look like during high-wind events:

When wind takes down a pole or power line, whats the typical range of time it might take a crew to get it back up and working?

If a pole gets taken down due to wind, it will typically take between four and eight hours to replace that pole to get service restored. If the pole is along a road or street, restoration may be quicker. But if a pole is in a remote area or in a backyard, the outage may take longer to repair due to the inability to access the site and having to hand transport equipment and materials for the repairs.

How many repair people and/or crews does PNM have working on any given day typically?

PNM has around 109 line personnel statewide to respond to outages on a given day. PNM also utilizes contract crews to help resolve outages in a timely manner when needed. Also, in some extreme weather instances, PNM can also ask for Mutual Assistance. This is when PNM asks other utilities to send some of their crew members or contractors to help us make repairs. The more hands we have helping, the faster we can get the lights back on.

Last week PNM told us they had some crews work 22-hour shifts during the wind event. Is that typical?

During weather events that cause large or multiple outages, crews tend to work about 16 hours before being relieved from their shifts. PNMs Supervisors and Managers assess each employee, and if some are able, they may choose to work as much as 22 hours before being relieved to go home to rest.

If the wind is particularly strong, are there some things repair crews cant do?

Safety is our top priority when it comes to our crews and customers. In order to ensure crews remain safe while doing their jobs, they cannot work in aerial manlifts when the wind is over 20 mph. This can slow down getting repairs completed during extreme weather events like the two wind storms we experienced this week. PNM crews work diligently in this weather to get power back on for all customers as safely and quickly as possible.

Chavez said he encourages all customers to sign up for outage alerts by texting #ALERT to 78766, which will update customers on when their power will be restored. Customers are also encouraged to report outages by texting #OUT to 78766 or going online.
NEW YORK (AP)  The comic strip Dilbert disappeared with lightning speed following racist remarks by creator Scott Adams, but it shouldnt come as a shock to anyone who has followed them both.

Adams, who is white, was an outspoken presence on social media long before describing Black people as a hate group on YouTube and, to some, Dilbert had strayed from its roots as a chronicler of office culture.

The editor of the San Francisco Chronicle, which dumped Dilbert last year, said the comic strip went from being hilarious to being hurtful and mean. The Los Angeles Times, which joined dozens of other newspapers in dropping the comic following last weeks remarks, had quietly replaced four of Adams strips last year.

He kind of ran out of office jokes and started integrating all this other stuff so after a while, it became hard to distinguish between Scott Adams and Dilbert,' said Mike Peterson, columnist for the industry blog The Daily Cartoonist.

As individual newspapers told readers they were dropping Dilbert, the company that distributed the strip, Andrews McMeel Universal, said it was severing ties with Adams. By Monday, Dilbert was gone from the GoComics site, which also features many top comics such as Peanuts and Calvin and Hobbes.

Adams said Monday that the strip, which first appeared in 1989, will only be available on his subscription service on the Locals platform.

Dilbert is effectively dead, Peterson said.

Adams said Monday on YouTube that his distributor didnt really have a choice because clients and other cartoonists were mad. They were just forced into it, he said.

On Twitter, he said his book publisher and book agent had canceled him. The Penguin Random House imprint Portfolio said it wouldnt publish Adams book Reframe Your Brain in September, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Adams has long been active on Twitter, whose CEO, Elon Musk, was among the few to publicly back him. He also blogs regularly and puts out a regular podcast on YouTube.

Hes attracted attention for comments hes made in the past, including saying in 2011 that women are treated differently by society for the same reason as children and the mentally disabled  its just easier this way for everyone. He said 2016 GOP presidential candidate Carly Fiorina had an angry wife face.

Adams became a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump, saying Trump had a hypnotists skill in attracting followers. He said that stance cost him money in lost speakers fees.

He said he lost the prime-time animated Dilbert series that ran on UPN for two seasons for being white when the network decided to target a Black audience, and that he lost two other corporate jobs because of his race.

During the Feb. 22 episode of his YouTube podcast Real Coffee with Scott Adams, he referenced a Rasmussen Reports survey that had asked whether people agreed with the statement Its OK to be white. Most agreed, but Adams noted that 26% of Black respondents disagreed and others werent sure.

The Anti-Defamation League said the phrase at the center of the question was popularized as a trolling campaign by members of 4chan  a notorious anonymous message board  and was adopted by some white supremacists. Rasmussen Reports is a conservative polling firm that has used its Twitter account to endorse false and misleading claims about COVID-19 vaccines, elections and the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Adams repeatedly referred to people who are Black as members of a hate group or a racist hate group and said he would no longer help Black Americans. On his podcast Monday, he called his hate group remark hyperbole, but continued to defend his advice that white people get the hell away from Blacks.

In announcing that Dilbert would be cut from the Kansas City Star, the newspapers community engagement editor, Derek Donovan, said Adams antagonistic, childishly macho persona has been a constant for years.

Its not cancel culture, editor Richard Green of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat in California said. Its doing the right thing.

The Sun Chronicle in Attleboro, Massachusetts, left a blank space Monday where Dilbert would normally run and said it would keep it that way through March as a reminder of the racism that pervades our society.

The San Francisco Chronicle stopped publishing Dilbert last October  a move that drew only a handful of complaints. Editor-in-Chief Emilio Garcia-Ruiz said in the newspaper that he had objected to a strip that said in an effort to diversify workplaces, straight men should pretend to be gay.

In a Sept. 2 Dilbert strip, a boss said that traditional performance reviews would be replaced by a wokeness score. When an employee complained that could be subjective, the boss said, Thatll cost you two points off your wokeness score, bigot.

In an August strip, the boss said the company was getting into the pandemic prevention market and creating demand by unleashing a deadly virus.

A Black employee featured in an Oct. 20 strip noted that his boss ignored his actual accomplishments to recommend him for a job for which he was not qualified. The employee backed down when told it would be a big jump in pay.

Peterson said there are other examples of how Adams attitudes had replaced the biting humor that Peterson and a legion of middle managers loved. Adams seemed to run out of jokes.

The strip jumped the shark, he said.

___

Associated Press writer David A. Lieb in Jefferson City, Missouri, and news research Rhonda Shafner in New York contributed to this report.
Jurors found three men guilty Monday in the 2018 beating and shooting deaths of two teenage boys on the West Mesa.

Stephen Goldman Jr., 23, Jimmie Atkins, 26, and Julio Almentero, 18, each were found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder in the killings of Ahmed Lateef, 14, and Collin Romero, 15. The two boys were found buried in a remote area of Sandoval County about two weeks after their disappearance in December 2018.

Collin Romeros mother, Amanda Kimbrel, expressed relief after the verdicts were announced.

Im very pleased with the outcome, Kimbrel said in the courtroom Monday. It has been a huge, long journey that I wouldnt wish on anyone.

Kimbrel was among family members and volunteers who searched on the West Mesa for 10 days before police found the boys remains.

I feel a little bit of justice has been served, and I feel good that we got to this point, finally, she said.

Jurors also found each man guilty of multiple felony counts, including two counts of kidnapping, two counts of armed robbery, tampering with evidence and conspiracy in the boys deaths.

The men, who were wearing masks in court, appeared to show little emotion Monday as 2nd Judicial District Judge Stan Whitaker read the verdicts.

Jurors began deliberating Friday afternoon and returned the verdicts shortly before noon Monday.

Each man faces a maximum prison sentence of two consecutive life sentences plus 19.5 years, the 2nd Judicial District Attorneys Office said. Their sentencing hearings have not been scheduled.

Im so damn proud of our prosecutors and all the work they did to bring a sense of justice to the victims families and this community, District Attorney Sam Bregman said in a written statement.

Prosecutors told jurors throughout the trial that the two boys appear to have been tortured before they were killed.

Lateef was shot 19 times and Romero at least nine times, and not all of the gunshots were fatal wounds, prosecutor Natalie Lyon told jurors during closing arguments Friday. Autopsies also revealed numerous cuts, scrapes and bruises on the boys bodies.

Defense attorneys had argued that the boys most likely were killed by Anthony Aragon, who testified during the trial that he helped bury their bodies in a remote area west of Rio Rancho after they were killed.

Prosecutors alleged that the events that led to the boys deaths began when Lateef arranged to buy a firearm from Goldman. When Goldman asked why Lateef needed a gun, the boy responded that he had been robbed by that white boy Flex  a nickname for Atkins, who was a close friend of Goldmans.

Goldman, Atkins and Almentero then conspired to take revenge against Lateef and picked up the two boys with that intention, prosecutors told jurors.

The case against the three men relied heavily on electronic records of cellphone and social media accounts showing movements and locations.

Jurors also were shown Snapchat videos taken by Atkins from the front seat of the car as Almentero beat the two boys in the back seat as they drove west on Interstate 40 en route to the West Mesa.

Defense attorneys argued that the videos showed a hazing or initiation ritual, but did not prove that the three men murdered the boys.

Defense attorneys also noted that police never identified the location on the West Mesa where the two boys were killed. An Albuquerque police detective testified that he made four visits the area off Atrico Vista NW but was unable to identify the site of the killings.
(CNN)  The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) sees the previous days attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank as actions of terror, an IDF official said Monday, as tensions in the region simmered after a weekend of violence.

At least one Palestinian man was killed, a Palestinian fire engine was stoned by a crowd of about 50 settlers, and other Palestinians were injured with stones or metal bars, Palestinian medical officials said Sunday, blaming Israeli settlers in the West Bank.

The attacks followed the fatal shooting of two Israeli brothers earlier in the day in the town of Huwara, south of Nablus in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, just days after a massive Israeli military raid into Nablus in search of wanted militants left at least 11 Palestinians dead.

Last night there was revenge activity done by people that live in the area. I wanted to say we see these actions as actions of a terror, these violent riots, the IDF official said, asking not to be named due to the sensitivity of the situation. Its been a horrible night, the official added.

The official said the reason the IDF was sending three additional battalions to the area was to keep the Palestinians and Israelis apart.

More forces will de-escalate the situation, the official said. This morning weve sent in another Givati (reconnaissance) battalion  the Givati Special Forces battalion  into the area in addition to two Border Patrol companies, basically trying to de-escalate and keep the two sides apart.

Israels Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant vowed to arrest the individual or individuals who killed the settlers and called for calm while allowing military and security forces to work and apprehend the perpetrators.

It is neither legitimate nor possible to operate individually, Gallant said Monday, while visiting the location where the incident took place. We cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their hands. I call on everyone to follow law and order and to trust the IDF and security forces everywhere, across the country.

The IDF detained eight people in connection with the attacks in Huwara, some of whom have since been released, Israel Police spokesman Dean Elsdunne told CNN Monday.

Cycle of violence

Sameh Hamdallah Mahmoud Aqtash, 37, was shot in the abdomen and killed in the town of Zatara, between Huwara and the Israeli settlement of Kfar Tapuach, the Palestinian Ministry of Health said Sunday night. In Huwara itself, at least one person was stabbed and another assaulted with an iron bar, the Palestinian Red Crescent said.

The Israeli settlers who were killed earlier were named as brothers Hillel Menachem Yaniv, 21, and Yagel Yaakov Yaniv, 19, according to the local settler council.

Video from the scene showed that their car had crossed a median, and hit a vehicle going the other direction, suggesting they were shot while driving.

Late Sunday, the IDF announced that the older brother, Hillel, was a serving soldier and expressed condolences in a statement.

Peace talks

Following rare talks on Sunday brokered by Jordan, Egypt and the United States, Israeli and Palestinian representatives affirmed their commitment to all previous agreements between them, and to work towards a just and lasting peace.

Israel and the Palestinian Authority confirmed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of 3-6 months. This includes an Israeli commitment to stop discussion of any new settlement units for 4 months and to stop authorization of any outposts for 6 months, a joint statement read.

However, in response to the announcement of a halt on settlement construction, far-right Religious Zionism party leader Bezalel Smotrich firmly rejected a pause, even for one day.

In a post on Twitter, the Israeli finance minister appeared out of alignment with his government, writing: There will not be a freeze on settlement building and development, not even for one day (this is under my authority). The IDF will continue to act to counter terrorism in all areas of Judea and Samaria without any limitations (we will reaffirm this in the cabinet). Its very simple.

Israeli cabinet approves bill allowing death penalty for terrorists

Also on Sunday, Israels cabinet approved a proposed law to impose the death penalty on terrorists. It is officially a private members bill sponsored by the far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, rather than government-backed legislation.

The law would give courts the power to impose the death penalty on those who have committed the crime of murder on nationalistic grounds against the citizens of Israel, a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Ben Gvir said.

After a preliminary vote in the Knesset, or parliament, Israels political-security cabinet will next discuss the language in the bill, before it goes to the committee stage. If it passes the committee stage, it will require three Knesset readings to become law.

There have been previous attempts to introduce the death penalty in 2016 and 2018, according to the Israel Democracy Institute, but they did not become law.

In response to the moves, the Palestinian government on Monday condemned in the strongest terms the Israeli cabinets approval, according to a statement from the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The death penalty violates the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people to life, non-discrimination, and self-determination. It is a cruel, barbaric, and inhumane bill rooted in Jewish supremacy and precisely aimed to deny the Palestinian people their right to exist and their humanity, it said, while also calling on the international community to take concrete actions to pressure Israel to rescind its bill.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Israeli military calls settler attacks on Palestinians actions of terror after weekend of violence"
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The Tom Cruise-starring action movie and the hit Netflix series win the stunt ensemble prizes which are unveiled prior to the telecast, while Jessica Chastain and Sam Elliott nab the first awards at the live ceremony.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards is currently underway at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California, honoring the best achievements in film and television performances for the year 2022. Ahead of the telecast, some of the prizes were already handed out, with "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Stranger Things" among the early winners.

The "Top Gun" sequel beat "Avatar: The Way of Water", "The Batman", "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" and "The Woman King" for the Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture award. Meanwhile, the popular Netflix series nabbed the action performance by a stunt ensemble prize in TV category, edging out its competitors including "Andor", "The Boys", "House of the Dragon" and "The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power".

After the live ceremony was kicked off at 8 P.M. ET / 5 P:00 P.M. PT, Jessica Chastain took the stage to accept the first award announced during the telecast. She was named best actress in a TV movie or limited series for her role as country music star Tammy Wynette on Showtime's "George & Tammy". It's her third SAG Award after winning for "The Help" in 2012 and "The Eyes of Tammy Faye" in 2022.

Chastain defeated fellow nominees, namely Emily Blunt, Julia Garner, Niecy Nash-Betts, Amanda Seyfried, for the prize. "To every actor watching, I look forward to working with you. I will see you on set!" she said in her speech.

Sam Elliott later grabbed the best actor in a TV movie or limited series award for his role on "1883", followed by Jean Smart's win as Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her performance on "Hacks".

The show, which streams live on Netflix's YouTube channel, will see Sally Field being presented with the Life Achievement Award.

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The radio host says people tell her to 'kill' herself after she doubles down on her comments on the 'Black Panther' actor, who earlier confronted Dominique's podcast host Lore'l on the red carpet.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - Dominique Da Diva isn't apologizing for calling Michael B. Jordan "corny." After it was revealed that it was actually her, instead of Lore'l as the actor believed, who called him "corny," she doubled down on her statement.

Taking to her Instagram Story, Dominique shared a screenshot of her complete quote to give a clear context on her conversation about Michael back in 2021. "The blogs only post half bulls**t," she wrote on Sunday, February 26. In a separate Story, she insisted, "Any black man that dates white women is corny to me. I guess that PR relationship w/ Lori helped y'all forget but I didn't."

"Anything I said once I'll say it again," the radio host added, before calling Nick Cannon "corny too." She said of the rapper/comedian, "he got mad women babies and money." Calling Russell Wilson "nice corny," she explained, "Corny ain't bad. That's 70% of the N***as in this industry."

"Let's see how y'all act when he brings his next girlfriend with him on the red carpet toodles," she concluded her Story.

But Dominique didn't stop there. Over on her Twitter account, she clapped back at the critics after apparently receiving hateful comments. "It's so funny how ppl will tell u to kill yo self when you say something they don't like," she tweeted.

She also urged people to channel their energy into supporting Michael's newest movie "Creed III". "Did y'all go see CREED III? That's wtf we need to be talkin about right now likeeeeeeee . My people so easily led astray," she added.

Dominique's old comments on Michael were brought up by the actor himself on the red carpet for the screening of "Creed III". When Lore'l interviewed him, he falsely accused her of calling him "corny."

"We go way back, all the way back to Chad Science [Academy] in Newark," Lore'l pointed out their connection. "Oh yeah, I was the corny kid, right?" Michael confronted her, which she denied. Lore'l insisted she was being "misquoted."

"No you did not hear me say that! I said we used to make fun of the name," she continued, before switching the topic. "But yeah, he is obviously killing things out here," she said, before concluding, "Well, you're not corny anymore."

Later, audio from a 2021 podcast episode revealed that it was actually Lore'l's co-host Dominique who called Michael "corny." When talking about the actor's relationship with Lori Harvey, Dominique said of the "Black Panther" star, "You know what I really think deep down inside? I think that Michael B. Jordan is a nice, corny guy, and I don't mean that as a slight." She added, "We all know the nice, corny guys treat you the best."

"You know whats so crazy? I went to school with Michael B. Jordan at a point in life," Lore'l then said. "And to be honest with you, we teased him all the damn time because his name was Michael Jordan."

"Let's start there, and he was no Michael Jordan," she went on recalling. "And he also would come to school with a headshot. We lived in Newark, that's the hood. We would make fun of him like, 'What you gonna do with your stupid headshot!?' And now look at him!"

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The 'True Detective' actor, who hosts the popular show for his fifth time, references his controversial stance on vaccination and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - Woody Harrelson landed in hot water for his opening monologue in the Saturday, February 25 episode of "Saturday Night Live". In the episode, the "True Detective" actor, who took to the stage for his fifth time as "SNL" host, talked about his controversial stance on vaccination and the COVID-19 pandemic while delivering a long story about the "craziest script" he's ever read.

"So the movie goes like this," Woody said. "The biggest drug cartels in the world get together and buy up all the media and all the politicians and force all the people in the world to stay locked in their homes. And people can only come out if they take the cartel's drugs and keep taking them over and over."

He continued, "I threw the script away. I mean, who was going to believe that crazy idea? Being forced to do drugs? I do that voluntarily all day."

After watching the monologue, some viewers took to Twitter to blast the show and Woody for the controversial monologue. "Thank you, @nbcsnl, for Woody Harrelson's insipid anti-vax monologue," producer Lee Goldberg tweeted in a now-deleted post. "Who are going to have guest host next week, Scott Adams?"

Comedian and podcast host Ashley Ray also criticized the monologue. "rant makes it sound like he did it randomly without permission when this definitely sounds like a thing that was written and on cue cards," she wrote.

Another critic said, "It's not just some harmless view given the disinformation and a platform like SNL should know better." Someone added, "What on earth was this anti-vax nonsense." Meanwhile, Twitter CEO Elon Musk appeared to love Woody's jokes and praised him for being brave as he said, "So based. Nice work."

This wasn't the first time for Woody to receive backlash over his conspiracy theories related to the coronavirus pandemic. In an interview with Vanity Fair, the "Now You See Me" actor dubbed the mask-wearing "absurd," adding that he hasn't gotten COVID-19 because he's "internally clean." The actor additionally took to Instagram to share his opinion on the 5G networks, which he believed was responsible for COVID-19 spread, though he deleted it later.

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Meanwhile, actor Ke Huay Quan makes history for being the first Asian actor to win Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for his appearance in 'Everything Everwhere All at Once'.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - More winners were announced at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards, which took place on Sunday, February 26. Among the big winners on the evening were Jason Bateman and Jennifer Coolidge, who took home best actor and actress in a drama series awards respectively.

Jason was presented with the trophy for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series for his performance on "Ozark". He bested fellow nominees, including Jonathan Banks ("Better Call Saul"), Jeff Bridges ("The Old Man"), Bob Odenkirk ("Better Call Saul") and Adam Scott ("Severance").

Meanwhile, Jennifer snagged the Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series, thanks to her stunning performance on "The White Lotus". She won over Elizabeth Debicki ("The Crown"), Julia Garner ("Ozark"), Laura Linney ("Ozark") and Zendaya Coleman ("Euphoria"). The show also celebrated its victory in the Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.

The night also saw Andrew Garfield presenting Sally Field with a Life Achievement Award. "I worked my whole life. In all of these almost 60 years, there is not a day that I don't feel quietly thrilled to be called an actor," the "Forrest Gump" actress said during her speech.

In the 2023 SAG Awards, actor Ke Huay Quan made history for being the first Asian actor to win Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for his appearance in "Everything Everywhere All at Once". This was another win for the movie after Michelle Yeoh won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role and Jamie Lee Curtis nabbed Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role.

Also among the winners at the event was Jeremy Allen White, who was named as the best actor in a comedy series for his performance on "The Bear". It was also a big night for the cast of "Abbott Elementary" as they won Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.

Brendan Fraser was additionally one of the celebrated actors that night. The actor was presented with one of big gongs, Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role, for "The Whale".

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The former 'Good Morning America 3' co-host is spotted holding hands with his 10-year-old daughter when arriving at New York City's JFK airport following a week-long trip with his girlfriend to Mexico.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - T.J. Holmes is returning to daddy duties after enjoying a romantic trip with his girlfriend Amy Robach. The 45-year-old journalist has reunited with his daughter Sabine following a PDA-filled vacation with his former ABC News colleague.

T.J. was photographed with his 10-year-old daughter when arriving at New York City's JFK airport on Thursday, February 23, per Us Weekly's report. In the photos, which were reportedly published on Saturday, the father-daughter duo were holding hands as they were carrying luggage while walking through the terminal.

T.J. touched down in New York following a week-long trip with Amy to Mexico. It's unclear if the former "20/20" co-host arrived together with her boyfriend at the time or if they took separate flights home.

T.J. was sporting a white T-shirt underneath a gray jacket with colorful stripes on the chest area, teamed with shredded jeans when spotted at JFK airport. He carried a backpack with another huge bag on his hand.

T.J. and Amy were photographed flaunting PDA during their romantic getaway in Puerto Vallarta. In photos obtained by Daily Mail last week, T.J. was caught grabbing Amy's butt during a stroll on the beach. He was seen playfully squeezing his girlfriend's behind as they walked side by side.

Later, the couple was seen returning to the beach dressed up for a romantic stroll before heading to a restaurant for dinner. They looked happy as they shared a smile while walking hand-in-hand. The pair then enjoyed a romantic dinner at a kitschy local joint where they drank and kissed under the wide-eyed stare of a plastic pink flamingo.

T.J. shares his daughter Sabine with his estranged wife Marilee Fiebig. He married the Atlanta-area attorney in March 2010 in Memphis, Tennessee. Following the expose of his relationship with Amy, it was revealed that he had called it quits with Marilee in August 2022.

T.J. also has daughter Brianna and son Jaiden with ex-wife Amy Ferson.

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According to a new report, things are chaotic at the event as a handful of Hollywood A-listers are awkwardly stranded outside the venue during the award-giving ceremony in Los Angeles.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - Things didn't go all smooth during the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, February 26. According to a new report, that night was chaotic as a handful of Hollywood A-listers were awkwardly stranded outside the venue during the award-giving ceremony in Los Angeles.

In a video obtained by Variety co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh, stars like Bill Murray, Claire Foy and Rooney Mara were forced to stand outside the ballroom as they were temporarily blocked from accessing the ballroom inside the Fairmont Century Plaza hotel.

"Total chaos at the SAG Awards as Claire Foy and Rooney Mara are not being allowed inside the ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel - they're told they need to wait for the Fire Marshal to let them and hundreds of other guests inside," Setoodeh wrote on Twitter on Sunday. "Even Bill Murray has to wait. This is madness!"

The footage saw Foy apparently looking annoyed as she was talking with another attendee in line. Mara, meanwhile, was seen sporting a stoic expression while chatting with someone else. As for Murray, the Hollywood icon was joined by a security guard as he waited nearby.

Mara's representative, meanwhile, revealed to The Post that the hold-up was just due to overcrowding. "Not a single actor was barred entry into the SAG Awards," the representative of the "Her" actress explained. "There was a delay upon entry to clear the carpet due to overcrowding however no one was barred, including Rooney." Social media posts additionally revealed that things were okay by 5 P.M. local time.

For the big event, Foy arrived in a yellow Prada gown that she paired with a sparkling clutch and diamond jewelry. Mara, meanwhile, opted for a sheer black-and-white Alexander McQueen number and minimal accessories. Both Mara and Foy were nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for their work in "Women Talking", though the award was eventually given to "Everything Everywhere All at Once".

The two were joined by Jessie Buckley to present Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role, which went to Ke Huy Quan for his appearance in "Everything Everywhere All at Once".

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Fans can't help revisiting the 'Hunger Games' star's fall at the 2013 Academy Awards after the 'Eyes of Tammy' actress takes a nasty tumble when accepting SAG award for 'George and Tammy'.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - Jessica Chastain did Jennifer Lawrence at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. The "Interstellar" actress got compared to her "Dark Phoenix" co-star after she took a tumble at the Sunday, February 26 ceremony.

At the 2023 SAG Awards, Chastain won the award for best actress in a TV movie or limited series for her role as country music star Tammy Wynette on Showtime's "George & Tammy". When walking up the stairs to take the prize, she had a nasty fall.

Thankfully, the 45-year-old actress received some much-needed assistance from a gentleman who gave her a hand as she headed to the stage, saving her from further embarrassment. Irish actor Paul Mescal, who was on hand as presenter, also rushed to her aid.

Following the fall, viewers took to social media to compare her to Lawrence, who infamously tripped on the stairs at the 2013 Oscars. "Jessica Chastain did the JLaw fall," one Twitter user wrote. Another quipped, "Jessica Chastain honoring Jennifer Lawrence's fall."

"Jessica Chastain fell up the stairs," a third person simply remarked. Another claimed that they were always dreading the moment, "Thrilled with the small amount of steps at the #SAGAwards I've spent 70% of my life worrying about actresses falling up stairs. UPDATE: 10 seconds after I tweeted this Jessica Chastain fell up the stairs. I blame me."

Following the nasty fall, Chastain spoke with ET and brushed off the tumble. "I am the one who never expects this is going to happen," she said of her big win. "Yeah, I fell on the stairs, that's good because some people didn't know that I did."

"The Hurt Locker" star blamed her big dress for the embarrassing moment. "I was trapped in my dress and I had very nice men helping me, so that was a plus," she said. For the ceremony, she wowed in a fuchsia off-the-shoulder gown from Zuhair Murad.

On the stage, Chastain delivered a motivational message to aspiring and struggling actors as she said, "I'm doing a show right now in New York, I'm doing 'A Doll's House' and every day after the show I get to meet people at the stage door and I meet a lot of actors, who tell me their stories and it reminds me of when I was in college."

She continued, "Philip Seymour Hoffman came to speak to my class and I told all his frustrating stories about auditions and he encouraged us to keep going even when we thought no one was watching us. And he said at the end of the talk, 'I look forward to working with each of you'. It really shocked me because it was like he brought it into being. A few years later it came true and I had the opportunity to do a play with him."

"I'm telling this story right now because it reminds me of how powerful our mind is and what our thoughts can do," the Oscar-winning actress added, "so I want to tell everyone who might be struggling at home, to all the actors I get to meet, 'Keep going, you're one job away. I look forward to working with you, I'll see you on set and I love you.' "

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The former daytime TV queen hasn't been on screen since getting booted off her eponymous talk show 'The Wendy Williams Show' in June last year following months-long absence due to health issues.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - Wendy Williams aims for a TV comeback. The former daytime TV queen has revealed her desire to be on "The View", alongside Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar, in a new bizarre rant.

The 58-year-old former TV star's strange rant about her future was caught on camera while shopping at a pet store. She was spotted at a Petco in California over the weekend looking particularly frazzled as she walked down the aisles of the pet store.

A fan walked up to the fuzzy-booted former talk show personality and started filming as she went on a wild rant about her pets, work and her forced "retirement," per The Sun. The former "The Wendy Williams Show" host told the cameraman, "I'm shopping for kitty litter because I have a wax museum in Paris and one in California."

"I'm going for a week in Paris and then three weeks in California and then immediately fly back," she continued rambling on. "I want to be on TV, stuff like Seth Meyers, Joy Behar, Whoopi Goldberg, 'The View'. Stuff like that."

The bizarre rant came after it's reported that Wendy was filming a mystery project in New York City. Page Six reported on February 23 that Wendy filmed the so-called new project at Fresco by Scotto. Sources said the former radio personality, who has been lying low since battling health and addiction issues, took the power eatery by storm.

"Basically it was a regular night.. and then all of the sudden the Wendy Williams train arrived," an insider detailed. "She had a huge crew that basically turned Fresco by Scotto into a movie set.. approximately 30 people in the crew. Lights, cameras, audio, producers, etc. [It] looked like a reality show."

The source continued, "One of the 'scenes' was Wendy having dinner with a friend. Wendy came into the dining room with her big personality waving at all the guests, like they were extras in her movie."

Wendy hasn't been on screen since getting booted off her own show "The Wendy Williams Show" in June 2022 following months-long absence due to health issues. CBS cut the TV personality and replaced her show with Sherri Shepherd's "Sherri".

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The 'Parks and Recreation' actress is seen looking annoyed and mouthing angry phrases when the cast of the HBO series takes the stage to receive the award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series.

Feb 27, 2023

AceShowbiz - Aubrey Plaza seemingly wasn't in her best mood while attending the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday, February 26. The actress was seen looking annoyed and mouthing angry phrases when the cast of "The White Lotus" took the stage to receive the award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series.

That night, F. Murray Abraham gave their acceptance speech. Aubrey, meanwhile, stood next to Meghann Fahy, Theo James and Will Sharpe. Later, Jon Gries could be seen grabbing her by the arm and whispering something into her ear.

Jon, who portrays Jennifer Coolidge's villainous husband Greg on the hit HBO series, seemingly pointed out that she was about to suffer a wardrobe malfunction. Aubrey then adjusted her dress before turning back to F. Murray.

During the speech, F. Murray sent "a prayer out to the earthquake victims of Syria and Turkey and a prayer for peace in Ukraine and Russia." He additionally shouted, "Union forever!" At one point, Aubrey appeared to mouth, "Jesus Christ," as the other cast members congratulated each other. However, it was unknown if her reaction was to F. Murray's speech, her wardrobe malfunction or another situation.

Viewers, who noticed Aubrey's apparent annoyance, quickly took to Twitter to comment on the matter. "What was she annoyed about?" one person questioned. Another user added, "why was aubrey plaza so mad to win for white lotus? #SAGAwards."

Someone else commented, "On another note, did anyone notice Aubrey Plaza? She seemed REALLY pissed off there was something real odd about her on stage with the White Lotus team. She even exited the stage quick and alone rather than staying with the cast."

"Ok soooo what is going on with Aubrey Plaza and the rest of the White Lotus cast?" one other said. "She looked like she haaaaated being up there and immediately ran off stage while everyone in the cast was congratulating and hugging each other #SAGAwards."

"The White Lotus" was the bigger winner in the TV department at the 29th SAG Awards. In addition to the best ensemble in a drama series, Jennifer Coolidge took home the award for Actor for Best Female Actor in a Drama Series.

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Back in January, the 'Maze Runner' actor's model girlfriend landed in hot water after her homophobic, pedophilic and anti-Taylor Swift tweets resurfaced online.

Feb 28, 2023

AceShowbiz - Dylan O'Brien and his girlfriend Rachael Lange have proven that their relationship is still going strong despite recently being hit with backlash. "The Maze Runner" actor and the SKIMS model landed in hot water last month after her old anti-Taylor Swift and racist tweets resurfaced.

On Sunday, February 26, an alleged eyewitness spilled to celebrity gossip account Deux Moi on Instagram that the couple enjoyed a casual outing in New York. "Just saw Dylan O'Brien and his gf walking UES, spotted on E 81st and 2nd," wrote the insider, along with a photo of the lovebirds. "He's in the blue hoodie, she's in the blue coat."

Rachael came under fire after Dylan seemingly confirmed their relationship on January 19. Soon after news of their romance broke, fans were quick to take a look at Rachael's social media profiles, including her Twitter.

Fans then found some of Rachael's inappropriate old tweets. In 2013, Rachael wrote, "I hate Taylor swift." Then in 2016, she tweeted, "Never date a girl that plays ANY Taylor swift," and, "Taylor swift is a w****e."

Aside from her anti-Taylor tweets, fans noticed some of Rachael's racist, homo/transphobic and pedophilic posts. She often used the word "n***a" in her tweets and in September 2013, she wrote, "I'm literally such a pedophile oh my gosh." In a separate post, she even confessed, "I have various pictures of small black children on my phone."

After facing heavy backlash, Rachael issued an apology. "I would like to wholeheartedly apologize for past tweets of mine. I am mortified and ashamed that they exist; and am truly disgusted that I ever spoke that way," she declared on Twitter, "All I can say is that I hear you all and am sorry for the pain I've caused and contributed to."

"I want to make it abundantly clear that I take full responsibility," Rachael continued. The model of Elite Model Management NYC added, "I was extremely ignorant and while I do not remotely resonate with the things I once said, there is zero justification for my ever having said them." Concluding her message, she wrote, "I understand the significance that my words have and am deeply sorry for the hurt I have caused."

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The former star of 'The Crown' has landed in hot water after expressing desire in a recent interview to stay away from 'posh' roles and eying 'gritty' independent movie.

Feb 28, 2023

AceShowbiz - Jessica Barden has slammed "posh actors" like Emma Corrin, accusing them of "working class tourism" for coveting "gritty" roles. Hailing from the English region of North Yorkshire, "The Lobster" star has expressed her annoyance after fellow screen star Emma - who uses the pronouns they /them - declared they wanted to appear in an independent film after a previous turn in royal drama "The Crown".

"I hate words like gritty or feisty. Gritty means working class and feisty means you have an opinion. I die inside when I read them," she explained in an interview with The Sunday Times newspaper's Culture magazine.

"Emma Corrin finished playing [Princess] Diana in 'The Crown' and said they wanted to do a 'gritty' independent film in Scotland with an 'outrageous accent' and red hair. I was, like, why are you allowed to talk like this? How is working class tourism still OK for posh actors?"

She went on to insist the description of "gritty" means something else when it's relating to a script she's given, adding, "I'm from Yorkshire. I get a script for a gritty working class woman, and it means I'm playing somebody being abused."

Emma previously opened up about plans for their career after "The Crown" in an interview with the Guardian newspaper - declaring they didn't want to be "pigeon-holed" in "posh English" roles after playing Princess Diana.

Emma said, "The industry loves to pigeonhole. The sooner I can move away from doing posh English, the better, even though that's what I am ... I want to do a gritty, independent film, maybe in Scotland or something. I'll have an outrageous accent, and flowing red hair."

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The 'Abbott Elementary' actress has opened up on the advice given by her daughter Ivy Maurice when she was preparing to attend the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Feb 28, 2023

AceShowbiz - Sheryl Lee Ralph was told by her daughter she'd got to "rise like a phoenix" at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards. The 66-year-old actress - whose show "Abbott Elementary" won the Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series prize - posed on the red carpet at Los Angeles' Fairmont Century Plaza hotel in a sparkly caped Tadashi Shorji dress "fresh off the runway," which she accessorised with Fernando Jorje earrings, and she revealed she'd been given some valuable advice from Ivy Maurice, who is also her stylist.

"My daughter, Ivy Coco, is my stylist, and has been my stylist since the beginning of the awards season. And I said to her, 'Coco, I need you to tell me what do I need?' And she said, 'Mommy, you've got to rise like a phoenix, but younger.' She has been very intentional about making sure it is fresh, that it is relatable and it is about the now," she told People magazine.

Sheryl has a close relationship with Tadashi and the designer even created her dress when she married Senator Vincent Hughes in 2005. She said, "Tadashi and I have been friends for a long time. He designed my wedding gown to the senator. And Tadashi used to design for Coco and I when she was little. Now, here she is, a stylist, and he's still hitting it out of the park."

The actress recently joked the "birthing pain" of having her daughter had proven to be "worth it" after her offspring accompanied her "on this whole award train" and saw her score wardrobe hit after hit.

She said at the Golden Globe awards, "I said, 'You get my style, Coco.' I said, 'You get me, you get the style, and let's do this.' And she's been winning - I've been on every best dressed list, including The New York Times and I thank my child. Every birthing pain was worth it!"

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During the discussion on 'Art for Heart - The Healing Power of Genius', at ABP Networks second Ideas of India summit, Bickram emphasized on the importance of Indian rhythm and the history of understanding rhythm as life.

Speaking at the session, he said, Rhythm in its essence cuts across nations, across pretty much anything, but Indian rhythm, in particular, has a tremendous tradition, has a fantastic history of understanding rhythm as life. So the whole concept of the circular rhythm which is the taala structure... Indian rhythm was thought of in that way connecting it to the cosmos because it's a very old tradition and rhythm in India is a philosophy. It's not just a beat or a groove so in that context the way we see Taala is so refined.

Sarod players Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, who represent the seventh generation of a musical lineage known as the Senia Bangash Gharana, were also a part of this discussion. From a young age, both of them became acquainted with the fine art of playing the sarod. While talking about their journey in music, Ayaan Ali Bangash said, A Guru or a mentor can only convey the path to you but I think the realisation of the sense of responsibility has to come from within. I don't think that can be thrown upon. If you don't feel it, then don't do it.

Amaan Ali Bangash elaborated upon how Indian classical music is connected with spirituality even in modern times. I think it has to do with culture because our music is more about what we have heard from the great Ustads and Pandits, what we learned from them. It's to do with spirituality. I think Indian classical music is connected with spirituality, he said on the humility of classical artists.

Speaking at the second edition of the Ideas of India, classical and contemporary vocalist Shubha Mudgal said, The companionship of music kept me going through difficult times in the past 2 years, even near-death experiences. It's possible that companionship of music provides unconditional healing and support.

The ABP Networks Ideas of India Summit 2023 was discussing the topic of 'Art for Heart - The Healing Power of Genius'. Amidst the global churn and changing dynamics, the summit has brought together policymakers, cultural ambassadors, industry experts, celebrities, and business leaders to discuss the vital role India plays. ABP Network is a leading multi-language channel reaching 535 million individuals in India therefore this summit provides one of the biggest platforms for the brightest minds across various sectors to express their views.
Nokia on Sunday announced plans to change its brand identity for the first time in nearly 60 years, in order to accelerate growth.

There will be five different shapes that form the word NOKIA in the new logo. The iconic blue color of the old logo has been replaced with a variety of colors depending on the application.

Nokia still aims to grow its service provider business, selling equipment to telecom companies, but its primary focus is now on selling gear to other companies.

NOKIA had 21% growth last year in enterprise, which is currently about 8% of sales, says a statement given to media by Chief Executive Pekka Lundmark.

Several major technology companies are partnering with telecom gear makers such as Nokia to sell private 5G networks and automated factories to manufacturing customers.

Divestment is one option that the company plans to consider as it reviews the growth paths of its various businesses.

As Nokia moves toward factory automation and data centers, it will also have to compete with giant tech companies such as Microsoft and Amazon.

A macroeconomic environment that denies demand from high-margin markets such as North America, replacing it with growth in low-margin India, has forced rival Ericsson to lay off 8,500 employees.
Backpacking to take a tour to outlook the trends for Travel and Tourism Industry in 2023. Travel and tourism returned to form in 2022, and even though costs are rising globally, travellers are still taking holidays and exploring the world. With millions of travellers already planning trips, and a 20% increase in earnings for the global tourism sector, 2023 looks promising.

In 2023, travellers will be going one step further as we look to deepen these experiences by having a lasting positive impact on the places and people we visit.

2023  Consolidating on the gains from last year

There are signs of recovery in the travel and hospitality sector, with domestic tourism returning to its pre-Covid levels, as well as a growing interest in international travel in 2023.

Read More: EaseMyTrip offers Levo Spa Salon vouchers to customers

Affirming that Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip, said, The year 2022 witnessed an exceptional rise in travel demand along with the sector being surfaced from the disruptions caused by COVID. Even though the industry faced airfare hikes, the desire of people to travel did not stop and we expect the demand momentum to continue in 2023. Travel has become the way of life and people are not hesitating to direct their expenditure towards experiencing new adventures and exploring destinations.

Sharing insights on how 2023 is going to be the revive of the travel industry, Varun Arora, CEO & Co-Founder, of Ekostay, A Homestay Venture, said, The hospitality industry is looking to the upcoming Union Budget 2023 with high hopes as it could offer some relief to the sector.

The sector is expecting a number of measures that can help it recover from the losses suffered during the pandemic. Some key expectations include extending the current GST rate of 12% to the industry, setting up a Tourism Promotion Fund, tax incentives for capital investments, and special packages for developing tourism infrastructure. he further added.

According to, Liberatha Kallat, Chairperson & Managing Director, DreamFolks Services Ltd, As a leading airport services provider, we are optimistic about the recovery of the travel and tourism industry in 2023. We are seeing a steady increase in bookings and flight schedules, indicating that people are eager to travel again. With business & leisure travel picking up in 2023, we anticipate an increase in demand for various services such as lounge access, meet & assist, F&B offerings, airport transfers, spa, and transit hotels/nap rooms.

Akash Dahiya, Co-founder, SanKash, pointed out, With a projected annual growth rate of 20.7% in 2024, the travel and tourism sector's contribution to India's economy is predicted to reach pre-pandemic levels. In 2023, Indian tourists will be among the biggest spenders on travel. Weekend trips are expected to grow in popularity this year among the various travel options. Travelers between the age groups of 23 and 40 are willing to better their experience and spend more money on vacations. Even if it requires occasional spending, travelers would be expected to travel the world, and planning is a common subject.

Traveling Experience

There has been a noticeable change in travelers behaviour in recent years, which has forced companies and destinations to adapt in order to meet travelers high expectations.

There were a number of factors driving this change, including the popularity of remote working, the growing concern about sustainability, the desire for flexible cancellation policies, and the sentiment of revenge travel.

As we can see from the numbers, international tourism showed strong signs of recovering in 2023. By 2025, this segment should be fully recovered.

Liberatha Kallat, Chairperson & Managing Director, DreamFolks Services Ltd, said, Travelers will actively seek these services to ensure a hassle-free experience. For example, self-check-in kiosks will become a preferred choice among travelers to avoid queues. In response, we aim to provide better seating arrangements and customized lounges that cater to diverse audiences. In addition, we are committed to introducing new and innovative technologies that will streamline the travel process and make the experience more convenient and enjoyable for travelers. Furthermore, we believe the industry will continue to prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism practices, offering more opportunities for travelers to explore and discover new destinations in a conscious and responsible manner.

According to Akash Dahiya, Co-founder, SanKash, At the point of sale, technology will be even more prominent, enabling such traveler experiences. The global market for travel insurance, according to studies, was estimated to be worth $17.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to increase at a CAGR of 15.4% from 2022 to 2030. As a result, TNPL (Travel Now, Pay Later) platforms are increasingly popular since travelers want to save money by carrying less cash or keeping it in their savings. Even if a lot of individuals desire to travel, most of them are hesitant to use their savings for it because they are still concerned about another pandemic-like crisis. Therefore, TNPL platforms make sense since they enable travel experiences that are cost-effective. This not only enables individuals to plan vacations without worrying about their budgets but also keeps their savings intact and enables them to pay for the same in a convenient way.

We anticipate international travel to pick with an increase in MICE bookings along with business travel. 2023 is expected to be a good year for the travel industry and we anticipate further growth in the sector, said Rikant Pittie, Co-Founder, EaseMyTrip.
Sky has announced two appointments to a new leadership structure that will guide the broader Sky News Group organisation into the future.

David Rhodes has been appointed Executive Chairman, Sky News Group with overall responsibility for Skys news services across EMEA. This pan-European role will focus on the development of a long-term commercial strategy for both Sky News UK and TG24 in Italy.

Also confirmed is the promotion of Jonathan Levy to Managing Director and Executive Editor of Sky News UK, with the primary responsibility for the journalism on all UK Platforms including digital, TV and audio.

Dana Strong, Group Chief Executive Officer, Sky, said: I am delighted with these appointments, which will ensure that we continue to produce eye-catching journalism of which we can all be proud. David has a wealth of commercial experience, strategic insight and digital acumen and Jonathan is a highly experienced news executive with first class judgement and a successful track record of editorial delivery at Sky. Together they will ensure that innovation and dynamism is coupled with rock solid journalism.

David Rhodes, Executive Chairman, Sky News Group, said: It is a great honour to be appointed to lead the Sky News Group. Throughout my career I've admired Sky's commitment to accurate, impartial, high-quality journalism. Together we will bring this important news coverage to audiences around the UK, Europe, and the wider world.

Jonathan Levy, Managing Director and Executive Editor, Sky News UK, said: Its the greatest privilege to lead Sky News journalism when theres such an urgent need for impartial and independent reporting and analysis. There is an exceptional team of journalists here with a burning passion for hard-hitting visual storytelling. With investment in our journalism and audiences growing on all our platforms , there's never been a better time for news at Sky.

Nigel Baker, Chair of the Sky News Editorial Board, said: "The last 12 months have shown that Sky News' impartial, independent journalism has never been more important. The Board values the commitment of David and Jonathan to maintaining the integrity of Sky News and ensuring its original, eyewitness journalism reaches millions of people every day."

David Rhodes has more than 25 years of experience in journalism, including eight years as President of CBS News. He previously led Bloomberg Television in the US and has also done advisory work with the L.A. Times, Spotify, and BCG. Rhodes joined Sky as Group Director of International Business Development from News UK in 2021. David will report to Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios.

Jonathan Levy will be responsible for more than 500 journalists around the world and for upholding Sky News UKs reputation for accuracy and impartiality. He will ensure Sky News remains a leader in innovative technical production and original journalism.

Levy has been in the role of Director of Newsgathering and Operations with the organisation since 2011 and was previously Head of Politics - helping to successfully negotiate Britain's first televised Prime Ministerial debates. Levy and Giuseppe De Bellis, Managing Director and Executive Editor, TG24, will report into Rhodes.

These new appointments and leadership structure have been approved by the Sky News Editorial Board and both Rhodes and Levy will be responsible for Sky News integrity and editorial independence.

Changes are confirmed following the announcement in December 2022 that John Ryley would depart as Head of Sky News after 17 years at the helm.
How long before children with special needs are considered an undue burden on society, and therefore disposable?



Maybe right now.



A local Democrat official in Masachusetts is facing calls to step down after complaining about the cost of special education for children with disabilities who are not aborted.



Age of Autism has been riding up and down the countryside of the internet crying, "The tipping point is coming! The tipping point is coming," to mostly deaf ears outside of our community. Anne Dachel has written thousands of stories of tens of thousands of kids with all sorts of special needs and their impact on school districts around the globe. Maybe instead of normalizing autism and calling cure a dirty word, the powers that be should have listened to ALL of us. Of course, we know the truth. Its not the SEEDle. Despite the billions spent on genetics. The current crop of disabled as a rule do not have chromosomal differences. They have induced neurological difference that can not be identified in utero.



Look at this story from Massachusetts:



Massachusetts Democrat told to step down after abortion comments leave parents irate



A local Democrat official in Masachusetts is facing calls to step down after complaining about the cost of special education for children with disabilities who are not aborted.

Michael Hugo, the chair of the Framingham Democratic Committee, made the remarks during a city council meeting when discussing a proclamation about access to abortion and crisis pregnancy centers in the city. He said crisis pregnancy centers could misdiagnose a defect in a baby in the womb, leading to them being born and becoming a strain on a school budget. He issued a public apology after 10 days of backlash from members of his own party and parents of special needs children.

"I saw what Michael had said as a personal attack against my own children," said Sheryl Goldstein, the chair of the Framingham Disabilities Commission. "That my children who had special needs were not worth the expense in the school system." Read more here if you can stand it.

###

FREE on the Kindle app



Lies My Gov't Told Me: And the Better Future Coming (Childrens Health Defense) By Dr. Robert Malone



Governments intentionally weaponized fear to mold behavior. The media smeared anyone who objected to the narrative. FREE on the Kindle app







Cause Unknown

By Edward Dowd

What is causing this historic spike in deaths among younger people? What is causing the shift from the elderly to younger people?




You, as foreperson (or member) of the grand jury  shall  keep the deliberations of the grand jury secret unless called upon to give evidence thereof in some court of law in this state. You shall present no one from envy, hatred, or malice, nor shall you leave anyone unpresented from fear, favor, affection, reward, or the hope thereof, but you shall present all things truly and as they come to your knowledge. So help you God.

2020 Georgia Code Title 15  Courts Chapter 12  Juries Article 4 - Grand Juries Part 1 - General Provisions  15-12-67. Appointment or Election of Foreman; Oath of Foreman and Grand Jurors Universal Citation: GA Code  15-12-67 (2020)

The foreperson of the Georgia Grand Jury Emily Khors has appeared on multiple television channels, including CNN, MSNBC, etc., to blab, while laughing and giggling like a 14-year old, about the alleged recommendations of the Georgia Grand Jury convened to investigate the latest attempt of many by the establishment to get Donald Trump (on something or other, whatever, anything will do).

Since Khors has Pinterest page dedicated to Wicca exhibiting collections of pins about witchcraft and magic spells, and since witches do not generally believe in the traditional idea of God (unless one means the Earth or Gaia), her oath before God might not have represented the same sacred obligation that it does to most of us peasants who dont giggle and make funny faces for a living. Perhaps purporting to swear before God was Khors's first act of deception.

In addition, Kohrs giggled during a televised interview with MSNBC when she said she 'kind of wanted' to subpoena Trump just to get the chance to swear him in.

Perhaps no one explained to her in ninth grade that it is not all about her and what she gets to do.

In the old days that some of us still wistfully remember, it is precisely supposed to be not about her (or me or you) but rather about a solemn duty to a rule of law in which justice is blind, that is, justice that is not influenced by a persons opinions and prejudices. Perhaps her oath to decide according to the Georgia state law, not to the law of her own narcissism, is her second act of deception.

Furthermore, the fact that the prosecutors would put someone like this on the jury, and that they picked other jurors who voted to make someone with her obvious prejudices and adolescent behavior the jury foreperson calls into question the integrity of the prosecutors themselves. Renowned Harvard legal scholar Alan Dershowitz has stated that the behavior of the judge in the Georgia Grand Jury case is unconstitutional.

Further, anyone who reads the exact transcript of Trumps phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger can see that Trump did not ask Raffensperger to fabricate votes. Trump clearly asked Raffensperger to find the legal votes he genuinely believed were already there. Although many in the Democrat-Media Collusion Team are thrilled by that, convinced that Trump will be indicted, and may claim they do not understand what the problem is, one can be sure they will suddenly understand when someone does this to them.

First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak outbecause I was not a Jew. Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me. --German theologian and Lutheran pastor, Martin Niemoller, imprisoned for opposing the Nazis during World War II

And then they came for Donald Trump and I did not say anything because I was not a Trump supporter.

Does anybody think anymore, really think, about the consequences of this never-ending persecution of Donald Trump or is everything just an infantile partisan food fight now?

It would be nice if the election deniers in what remains of the Democrat party, the news media and our former legal system would resolve to stop using that legal system to influence elections in their favor and go back to the old-fashioned idea of blind justice that was a pivotal part of building an America of unprecedented wealth, power, and human rights. Unfortunately, our establishment elites seem intent, instead, shamelessly to keep the hoaxes coming one after the other in a never-ending clown show until they manage to craft some charge to enable them. All this, while they boast about trying to save our democracy, to escape the will of the American people in a free and fair election. It would be funny if it were not so disturbing.

WILLIAM ROPER So now you'd give the Devil benefit of law! THOMAS MORE Yes. What would you do? Cut a great road through the law to get after the Devil? WILLIAM ROPER I'd cut down every law in England to do that! THOMAS MORE (Roused and excited) Oh? And when the last law was down, and the Devil turned round on you-where would you hide, Roper, the laws all being flat? This country's planted thick with laws from coast to coast-man's laws, not God's-and if you cut them down-and you're just the man to do it-do you really think you could stand upright in the winds that would blow then? Yes, I'd give the Devil benefit of law, for my own safety's sake. Argument over respect for the law between 16th century philosopher, author, Renaissance humanist and former Lord High Chancellor of England, Thomas More, later sainted by the Catholic Church and his son-in-law William Roper1 Robert Bolt, A Man for All Seasons

William Roper, in real life, married Thomas Mores daughter and lived long into his 80s but Thomas More stayed true to his faith and was beheaded at the age of 57 by Henry VIII for maintaining silence, even though a few words stated in public could have saved him, about the justifiability of Henrys divorce from his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, so that he could marry Anne Boleyn.

Image: Screen shot from CNN video, via YouTube
House speaker Kevin McCarthy is finally releasing all the official security tapes and other video evidence showing what really happened during the massive stolen election protest at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. This evidence had been commandeered and hidden by Nancy Pelosi and the Democrat party for the last two years.

This material did not belong to Pelosi and the Democrats; it belongs to the American people. In fact, wannabe mob boss Nancy Pelosi and her reprehensible Democrat party had been trying to arrange, just before the new Congress came in, to have all this evidence locked away in the National Archives, where it wouldn't have been available to the public for fifty years.

McCarthy's decision to release this purloined evidence to Fox News host Tucker Carlson has caused quite a panic. The hyperbolic reactions of people like Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer aren't at all surprising. These Democrat leaders know what really happened that day, and they've been knowingly lying to America all along. They never imagined that those tapes would see the light of day. When the evidence on those hidden tapes is finally seen by the public, the false "insurrection" narrative they've created and pushed about January 6 for the last two years will collapse, along with their credibility.

I think this shows some solid strategic thinking by Kevin McCarthy. A few months back, Elon Musk wisely chose to release the "Twitter Files" to a few credible reporters with solid reputations for unbiased reporting, like Matt Taibbi and Bari Weiss. Musk knew that these reporters would understand the significance of the files; see the truth in the materials; and prepare accurate, well-put-together news reports. Musk understood that a solid, well constructed narrative was essential to the success of that project, with all the facts presented in a cohesive manner, or the truth wouldn't have gotten any traction at all.

If all the Twitter Files had simply been released immediately to everyone, then no cohesive narrative would ever have emerged. The public would never have understood the significance of the uncollated information, and the mainstream media would have drowned out all other voices with confusing disinformation, as they always try to do. Instead, the airtight narrative produced by these selected reporters has made the truth and accuracy of their result virtually unassailable. Attempts by dishonest Democrat politicians to denigrate the Twitter Files look desperate. Even better, the true story of the federal government's illegal censorship of Americans on Twitter has been so well put together that, even though the mainstream media won't report on it, they haven't succeeded in suppressing the information by ignoring it. The truth has still gotten out.

McCarthy learned from watching Elon Musk and the Twitter Files saga that a cohesive, factual narrative must be put together for this January 6 evidence as well. There is no other way to get this information to the public in any coherent form. When the truth is put together and presented by a trusted source, the facts will stand against all assaults, and McCarthy realizes that.

Even though Fox News lost a lot of audience and credibility in 2020, it still has an enormous primetime audience, bigger than CNN and MSNBC put together. Tucker Carlson is America's most watched TV host today, with a huge, loyal audience. Even many Democrats watch Tucker Carlson. He is so respected, and so important to the current success of Fox News, that no one there will dare try to prevent him from presenting the truth about January 6. That means that everyone will eventually see it. This is a masterstroke on the part of Kevin McCarthy. Even if you don't like McCarthy, there is no doubt that this is a great move.

This is a development of major importance to the country. If this January 6 video evidence is put together and presented properly by Tucker Carlson's team, it may have all the impact and all the "knock-on" effects that the release of the Twitter Files had. Maybe more. In fact, this evidence harmonizes with the Twitter Files.

Virtually all the abuses America has suffered at the hands of our out-of-control federal government for the last two years have been justified using the false January 6 narrative as the rationale. There was never any "insurrection." There are no "domestic terrorists" who need to be hunted down and kept in the D.C. gulag without a trial. There is no "disinformation and misinformation" that the federal government needs to combat to protect Americans. There are no "internal security threats" that the federal government needs to address by censoring conservatives on the internet. There are no "security concerns" that justify removing Fox News from TV, as has been recently suggested. It's all false, and it's all being pushed by bad actors who are trying to take over the country, subjugate the populace, and deprive us citizens of our guaranteed constitutional rights. The release of this narrative by Tucker Carlson will help prove that.

We've hardly finished processing the shocking information revealed in the "Twitter Files," yet here we are again, with even more compelling evidence of malfeasance. The credibility of the mainstream media is at an all-time low now. Several malevolent Democrat politicians (including our current president) were just proven to be colossal liars and now face further exposure. The despicable Democrat party lost the House in 2022, in part because of the Twitter Files, and we are now approaching another election season. Several government agencies like the DOJ and the FBI were just proven to be corrupt, and what's coming now looks far worse for them.

All these groups were damaged by the last cannonade and have been taking on water. How will they hold up against even heavier broadsides of truth this time around?

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
My wife and I spent much of our lunch today checking videos and messages from friends in Mexico City. Many people marched south of the border rejecting President Lopez-Obrador's changes to the electoral process. This is one of those reports:

Huge crowds gathered across Mexico on Sunday to oppose a government drive to shrink the independent electoral authority, arguing the changes threaten democracy, in what appeared to be the largest protests yet against President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's administration. Organizers said in Mexico City over 500,000 people attended, with video footage on social media showing a central Zocalo square filled with protesters. One police officer nearby said he had heard the half a million figure, while others gave lower estimates.

I don't have an estimate except that I saw videos of Mexicans marching, waving their flags, and singing their national anthem. The marches also happened in other Mexican cities as well as worldwide. I don't remember anything like this in Mexico before. At the same time, we have not seen the likes of AMLO before.

According to AMLO's critics, he wants to dismantle the Instituto Nacional Electoral (INE), the federal electoral commission, and give AMLO's Morena party total control over the elections. In other words, the party in power counts the votes and runs the computers. What could possibly go wrong under that scenario?

The bad news is that the Mexican Senate approved the so-called "Plan B." The good news is that the Mexican Supreme Court may kill it. The judges have issued a temporary suspension.

How will AMLO take an opinion by the court that his baby "Plan B" is unconstitutional? Honestly, that's what a lot of those people in the streets are scared about.

Last, but not least, they are concerned at the Atlantic about AMLO's "autocratic" ways:

Mexico's erratic and authoritarian president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, is scheming to end the country's quarter-century commitment to multiparty liberal democracy. He is subverting the institutions that have upheld Mexico's democratic achievement  above all, the country's admired and independent elections system. On Lopez Obrador's present trajectory, the Mexican federal elections scheduled for the summer of 2024 may be less than free and far from fair.

AMLO has lost the liberal Atlantic, and Mexicans are worried.

PS: Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos.

Image: Michael L. Dorn
Yeah, right! He takes the border crisis he created and has fomented beyond reason seriously!

Every sentient American knows this is not true. The moment Biden took office, he stopped the completion of the border wall and opened the border to all comers. So they are all coming! More than five million since he took office. They've come from all over the world: China, Russia, Peru, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and a hundred other nations. The Biden agenda is the replacement theory: sully the American demography by flooding the nation with migrants who will work for much less than American citizens. Import migrant children and put them to work without regard for the conditions. That's the leftist's way these days: so "serious" they are taking their lessons from China.

How can we be sure it is the Democrat party's way? Not one of them speaks out against the ruination of the country, the trafficking of children, the deaths of thousands of migrants Biden invited, the countless deaths by tainted "vaccinations." So we can be certain that Biden does not take the border crisis or the tragic consequences of the vaccine mandates seriously.

What else does he not take seriously? He certainly has not taken East Palestine, Ohio seriously. When quizzed about his failure to visit or why it took so long for Buttigieg to get there...he smirks, he chortles. Those blighted citizens are clearly not worth his concern. He could not be less serious about helping those people. Oh, he'll give billions to that greedy, ungrateful Zelensky but nothing to East Palestine. As the despicable Joy Behar put it (she assumes that the citizens of East Palestine voted for Trump), they "voted for" the disaster. She mistakenly believed Buttigieg's claim that Trump deregulated our rail safety  a big, fat lie debunked by the NTSB. But lies are what her "View" spews on a daily basis. That program is an insult to women; each of those hosts is ignorant beyond belief. They know nothing but believe themselves to be wise observers of our political scene.

Biden is serious, though, in his contempt for American citizens, for our working and middle classes. We are unimportant, a thorn in his side, the globalists' side. Our love of country annoys him and his party. His dismissal of the crimes against the citizens of East Palestine prove that beyond all doubt. While he shovels billions of our taxpayer dollars to the so thoroughly corrupt Ukraine and its wholly corrupt puppet president, he ignominiously ignores the citizens of East Palestine. If there were ever a clearer statement of his priorities, this was it. This administration and its cultists are anti-American, pro-criminal, pro-chaos, and prothe destruction of America as founded. They seriously seek  and are orchestrating  our downfall, and they seem to be winning.

The Democrat party is so serious about "bodily autonomy" and "personal freedoms" that it radically and seriously supports unlimited access to abortion  infanticide. They support the unrestricted mutilation of minor children who are suffering from gender dysphoria. They support the sexual grooming of children beginning in kindergarten. They believe that the introduction of porn to elementary school children is appropriate! But they'll be darned if we're allowed a gas stove in the home or a personal vehicle to conveniently move about.

In short, the Democrat party has become so radicalized that it is a clear and present danger to our once civilized country. Biden and his gang are so "serious" about our health and safety, which is why they pushed vaccine and mask mandates, but then they promote criminality. We are fast returning to the wild, wild West  an era when bad guys ruled with impunity, occasionally defeated by one (or seven) of our fictional heroes. Consider the great films: High Noon, True Grit, The Magnificent Seven, etc. Parts of the U.S. are now rife with crime, corruption, cowards, and pro-criminal prosecutors and attorneys general. The most violent of criminals are often let off without so much as a slap on the wrist, so they are often more brazen than ever. It is going to take some heroes to blunt the determination of the Marxist left and the cowardice of the gutless right.

So where are our heroes, our real men? There is not a single real man or, for that matter, a real woman, among the Democrats in Congress. Not one. Real women stand up for children, for families, for our Constitution, for freedom and free speech. There is not a single one among the legacy/corporate media. Jake Tapper? Chuck Todd? NPR? Tools of the left without an original thought. They've all been demasculinized and denationalized by a thoroughly corrupt media and a Marxist academia with an anti-American agenda. They hate America and the traditional values that made it the most free and productive nation on the planet. The Democrats are cowards all as are far too many of the Republicans  Mitt Romney comes to mind. They've sold their souls to the code of political correctness, to absurd wokery, and probably to China for personal wealth. They are weak, without any core convictions. Men like Biden and his minions are bringing about the death of America and handing its carcass over to China. That is what Joe Biden is serious about: the fall of the U.S. He is presenting us to China with a ribbon and a bow.

Joe Biden is serious about absolutely nothing but enriching his own family and pseudo-elite fellow swamp-dwellers. That is all he's ever been serious about. He's a corrupt thug and always has been a corrupt thug. He has been selling out his country for fifty years. His wife, his son, his brother, etc. are grifters all  no better than Sam Bankman-Fried. The tragedy is that he now sits in the Oval Office with the power to destroy us all, to take us into WWIII, to further bankrupt us, as he invites the Camp of the Saints to finish the job. This most treasonous president in U.S. history may well be the death of us all.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required.
April 13, 1953 was a red letter day in popular culture.

It was when Ian Fleming's debut novel, Casino Royale, was published, and the world was introduced to James Bond.

The success of Casino Royale in the U.K. paved the way for subsequent works by Fleming featuring Bond.

In 1961, President Kennedy in Life magazine named From Russia with Love as one of his top ten favorite books. This endorsement made the book a bestseller in the U.S.

Some say it was Kennedy's way of linking himself to Bond and projecting himself as a Bond-like heroic leader taking on the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

In politics, perception often triumphs over reality. Alas, for Kennedy, that perception was never tested. He never survived to run for re-election.

The adaptation of Fleming's novels to the big screen catapulted James Bond to legendary status and widened the readership of Fleming's novels.

Fleming wrote twelve novels and two collections of short stories featuring Bond.

Bond remains a cultural icon to this day, with twenty-seven hugely successful cinematic adaptations and myriad authors such as Raymond Benson, John Gardner, Kingsley Amis, and Sebastian Faulks taking over the literary Bond mantle.

Back to the Fleming novels.

Later this April, fresh installments of the Bond book series will be reissued to commemorate its 70th anniversary.

But this reissue has a difference.

The Telegraph reported that Ian Fleming Publications Ltd, which owns the literary rights to the novels, commissioned a "sensitivity" review of the Bond novels to find out if any of its contents failed to meet the modern standards of political correctness.

Following these reviews, changes have been made to the novels.

Firstly, each book will carry the following disclaimer:

This book was written at a time when terms and attitudes which might be considered offensive by modern readers were commonplace. A number of updates have been made in this edition while keeping as close as possible to the original text and the period in which it is set.

Now for the update to the text.

The Telegraph revealed that the word "n-----," which Fleming used to refer to black people when he was writing during the '50s and '60s, has been "almost entirely expunged" from the revised texts.

The Telegraph didn't define what "almost entirely" exactly means.

In the sensitivity readerapproved versions, "n-----" in most cases has been replaced by "black person" or "black man." Racial descriptors are entirely dropped in some instances.

The ethnicity of a barman in Thunderball (1961) has been omitted in new editions.

In Quantum of Solace (1960), the race of a butler goes unmentioned.

In Goldfinger (1959), the race of the drivers in the Second World War logistics unit, the Red Ball Express  which had many black servicemen  is not mentioned, instead referring only to "ex-drivers."

In Live and Let Die (1954), Bond's opinion of Africans in the gold and diamond trades as "pretty law-abiding chaps I should have thought, except when they've drunk too much" has been altered to "pretty law-abiding chaps I should have thought."

Another scene in the book, set during a striptease at a Harlem nightclub, originally read as follows:

Bond could hear the audience panting and grunting like pigs at the trough. He felt his own hands gripping the tablecloth. His mouth was dry.

This has been revised to "Bond could sense the electric tension in the room."

A segment in the book describing accented dialogue as "straight Harlem-Deep South with a lot of New York thrown in" has been removed.

When the book was first published in the U.S. in 1955, the title of the fifth chapter was changed from "N----- Heaven" to "Seventh Avenue."

In Dr. No (1957), criminals escaping from Bond become "gangsters," and the race of a doctor and immigration officer remains unmentioned.

But not all racially pejorative terms will be removed.

The racial terms Bond uses to refer to Asian people and his unfavorable views of the Korean character Oddjob from Goldfinger (1959) will remain.

The line in Casino Royale (1953) "the conquest of her body, because of the central privacy in her, would each time have the sweet tang of rape" will remain, as well as referring to homosexuality as a "stubborn disability."

This isn't the only time the books are undergoing revisions.

Prior to his death in 1964, Fleming permitted editors to revise sex scenes and racial terms for American markets.

This is the rationale cited by Ian Fleming Publications Ltd for initiating a sensitivity review and approving textual amendments.

Fleming isn't the only one whose works are being revised.

Earlier this month, the Telegraph reported that Roald Dahl's children's books would be scrubbed of terms related to weight, mental health, violence, sex, and race.

Following the intense backlash over the changes, the publishers announced they would release Dahl's original works along with the revised collection.

It is essential that Ian Fleming Publications Ltd follows the same approach and also publishes novels with Fleming's texts.

The risk is that this quest for "sensitivity" will result in an Orwellian rewriting of the past.

Art is a reflection of the time it was created. This includes both the ideas and the language used.

If we begin erasing the "offensive" bits, where does it end?

Being offended is subjective. The crudest joke with coarse language may be hilarious to one while fairy tales may be offensive to another.

If we start removing all that is offensive, some day we will end up with a blank page.

There is another risk here.

If fiction can be revised, perhaps history will be amended to fit a narrative.

For instance, the segregationist Alabama governor George Wallace was a Democrat, and so are many other racists. However, when the mainstream media quote Wallace, they conveniently don't mention that he was a Democrat, leading many to believe he was a Republican.

Soon, they may explicitly say Wallace was a Republican. When caught, they could baselessly claim that Wallace's mindset is like that of a Republican, hence they called him a Republican. Next, they will claim that Lincoln was a Democrat and use the same rationale.

To prevent that, we must ensure that all works, be they fiction or non-fiction, must remain untouched. There could be a rating system like for films, where readers can be forewarned about the contents of the book. There could be versions of the original with offensive content expunged, but the fact that they are amended must be explicitly stated.

It is essential that the original works are preserved so that generations to come know the facts about those times.

We cannot allow a few to dictate what should be consumed by all.

In the end, who controls the past controls the future.

Postscript: President Kennedy also had another connection to Bond.

On Nov. 21, 1963, Kennedy watched the movie adaptation of From Russia with Love with Sir Sean Connery as James Bond. It was the last film he would see before he was assassinated the next day in Dallas, Texas.

Trivia: Roald Dahl wrote the screenplay for the 1967 Bond film You Only Live Twice.

Image: Screen shot from moogheer video via YouTube.
Instead of doing serious reporting about Bidens and Mayor Petes incompetence and inaction on an environmental disaster, the media is running the same play theyve been running for over seven years: go after Trump.

On Thursday, Ross Barkan, a reporter for MSN posed this question: How did Donald Trump beat Pete Buttigieg to East Palestine, Ohio? Barkan wrote:

Donald Trump somehow made it to East Palestine, Ohio, before Joe Biden or Pete Buttigieg. The former president, desperate to return to the White House, accused the Biden administration of indifference and betrayal for its response to a train derailment that leaked toxic chemicals into the air and waterways of the town. It was a tantalizing opportunity for Trump, a way for him to playact, once again, the populist. Of course, Trump was not genuine. He does not care about what the Federal Emergency Management Agency does or does not do. Despite being president for four years, he likely barely understands the federal bureaucracy or how disaster relief works in the United States.

The author says Trump is desperate to return to the White House. (News flash: were desperate for his return to the White House.) Yet, here are some things that show which party is actually desperate to occupy the White House:

When Hillary and the DNC couldnt run on her corrupt record and on their unpopular leftist policies, they paid a foreign national over $10 million to create a fictitious dossier to destroy Trump. They must have had trouble finding true dirt with which to destroy him.

FBI director James Comey listed all of Hillarys crimes and then falsely claimed no one would be prosecuted for those crimes.

Corrupt FBI bureaucrats, who were so desperate for Hillary to win, continuously peddled the fake dossier as legitimate when they lied to the FISA court so they could illegally spy on associates of Trump as they sought to destroy him.

For four years, the media and other Democrats intentionally lied, asserting that Trump had colluded with Russia; they challenged the legitimacy of the election and labeled him an illegitimate president.

When Trump did his job and asked Ukraine to investigate the known corruption and kickbacks to the Biden family, the media and other Democrats colluded to push for Trumps impeachment. The media and other Democrats have never cared about all the kickbacks to the Clintons or the Bidens.

When a true story about a laptop came out before the 2020 election that showed how corrupt Joe and his family were, a cabal of journalists, government officials, former intelligence officials, and other Democrats engaged in a calculated campaign to knowingly censor the truth from the public. That shows pure desperation by a party so consumed with power that they were willing to intentionally interfere in a presidential election. They clearly didnt care about democracy or election integrity.

This is yet one more example of a Democrat operative impersonating a journalist  reporting is no longer about news or truth, it is a political weapon.

Where are all the environmentalists, entertainers, and other protesters in East Palestine? They certainly would have been there if this occurred on Trumps watch.

Think how the media and others savaged George Bush after Katrina hit, even though it was a Democrat mayor that didnt adequately prepare and evacuate. Within three days of knowing how bad the hurricane was, Bush and FEMA had the people evacuated to shelters throughout the country. The response was massive and amazing. Yet Bush was trashed as a racist who didnt care.

Terry Moran, a senior correspondent for ABC expressed his concern that Bidens lollygagging was allowing Orange Man Bad the opportunity to share a message of support. From NewsBusters:

Moran's larger point was not that Biden spent three weeks snubbing the people of East Palestine, he's just angry that Trump decided to go and in the process made Biden look heartless or uncaring.

Conclusion: The reason that Trump beat Mayor Pete and Biden to the spill, even though he didnt go for a whopping twenty days, is because the Democrats dont care about the little people.

Image: Michael Stokes, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered.
My friend and j-school classmate, Seth Hettena, who's no conservative, but who is a very good investigative reporter, has discovered something new and interesting about what's going on at Twitter:

Paid viral tweets from moneybags types with political agendas.

His tweet series can be read here:

There are private, invite-only factories for making viral tweets. They're called retweet rooms.



Members of a retweet room agree to share each others tweets.  Seth Hettena (@seth_hettena) February 26, 2023

Tweet rooms are not new. They were introduced in 2015, shortly before the election of President Trump, and normally, they are groups of political fanatics, either on the left, or the right. Politico did a story on this in 2017, and highlighted the Democrats' alarm, given that Trump supporters were apparently more effective at this than Democrats or establishment Republicans.

Republicans can point to Ezra Klein's supposedly defunct JournoList as to who started it. JournoList, recall, was an email listserv of Democrat political operatives and mainstream media journalists who coordinated together on what the talking points would be on the issues of the day. The Tweet room phenomenon that followed sounds like the same thing that JournoList had been doing.

Now Hettena is hearing something new emerging from this tweet-room viral-tweet factory phenomenon:

I'm told shell companies are set up to pay for proxy Twitter campaigns that are not attributable to a candidate.



Some big names in Democratic politics are said to be involved.  Seth Hettena (@seth_hettena) February 26, 2023

Paid tweets, all creating the chimera that certain tweets are spontaneously viral, the voice of the people, the mood of the masses.

Well, no. Hettena reports that he's hearing about big names in Democrat politics being involved, through shell companies and cash is flowing. Wonder why they want to hide such things through shell companies?

Hettena also found evidence that the other side does it, too:

Robert Shelton, a conservative activist in Georgia, has previously bragged about paying for retweets. Here's his profile banner in 2017: https://t.co/ePrQnSc8kr pic.twitter.com/3nGaIA5rBJ  Seth Hettena (@seth_hettena) February 26, 2023

It certainly opens the gate toward undeclared campaign advertising and spending, if the tweets are "paid for" by a campaign or politician, or non-transparent PAC.

Robert Shelton, a conservative activist in Georgia, has previously bragged about paying for retweets. Here's his profile banner in 2017: https://t.co/ePrQnSc8kr pic.twitter.com/3nGaIA5rBJ  Seth Hettena (@seth_hettena) February 26, 2023

He found one character on the GOP side who seemed to be doing it, but he also heard that Democrats are doing it. He's undoubtedly looking into it, because it creates a whole different meaning for democracy if people are reading paid tweets and they don't know that they are reading paid tweets, the tweets are just disguised campaign spending.

One of his commentators claimed that this group was paid.

There's no proof of that, but if it turns out to be true, then it would be an indicator that someone is paying Democrats to tweet a certain "narrative," while hiding that fact from the public and the campaign finance regulators. Who is it? Is it a rich billionaire who is in a position to fling this kind of money around to pay tweeters to tweet his narratives? There wouldn't be any of those, would there?

That's wretched stuff, given the implications for free and fair elections. As Seth noted, he didn't know what Elon Musk thought of this, but given the potential for trouble for Twitter, it's likely we will find out.

Seth will likely report his findings soon and whatever he finds will be interesting. Are top political partisans and their moneybags donors manipulating viral tweets to create Democrat "narratives"? Does it mesh properly with campaign finance laws?

Someone is whispering into his ear that they are. When the facts are out, Musk, and the regulators, and the House, will have their hands full.

Image: Pixabay, via Wikimedia Commons / Pixabay License
When it comes to the Ukraine-Russia war, Ukraine gets its strongest support from Europe, which has a long history of fearing Russians, and America, which has a penchant for the underdog and, possibly, has politicians with Ukrainian money lining their pockets. However, barring the New Zealand and Australian anglosphere, most of the southern hemisphere supports Russia. That is, its not just China that aligns with Putin; its almost everywhere in that part of the world.

One of the reasons that Russias economy is surviving despite Western sanctions is because other parts of the world are happy to do business with Russia. Theyre not being forced. It turns out that those parts of the world that are not in the American/Anglo/European axis like and respect Russia. I learned thanks to a fascinating article by Krishen Mehta, a member of the Board of the American Committee for U.S.-Russia Accord (ACURA), and a Senior Global Justice Fellow at Yale University, who has written an essay explaining five reasons for this support.

Image: The British Empire in 1886  one reason for lasting hostility. Public domain.

Mehta reviewed a meta-analysis of multiple surveys about different countries views of the conflict. He summed it up this way:

These are: For the 6.3 billion people who live outside of the West, 66 percent feel positively towards Russia and 70 percent feel positively towards China, and,

Among the 66 percent who feel positively about Russia the breakdown is 75 percent in South Asia, 68 percent in Francophone Africa, and 62 percent in Southeast Asia.

Public opinion of Russia remains positive in Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, India, Pakistan, and Vietnam.

Those are, as Mehta says, robust numbers when it comes to supporting Russia. He offers five reasons that could explain these attitudes. Ive quoted Mehtas topline arguments, and then added my own commentary. I urge you to read the original essay, though.

First, says, Mehta, The Global South does not believe that the West understands or empathizes with their problems.

While the West obsesses with gender, lockdowns, and climate change, the southern hemisphere lives in the real world, one of poverty (exacerbated by the craze for ESG investing), famine, and high energy prices due to war and climate change madness. A friend of mine routinely travels to Cambodia, and she says that the Wests lockdown, which ended tourism and broke the supply chain of Southeast Asian goods to America, left friends of hers so destitute shes surprised they survived. Meanwhile, Russia, China, and India sent vaccinations to the Southern hemisphere (although much good they did).

Second, says Mehta, History Matters: Who stood where during colonialism and after independence?

Put another way, countries that were once European colonies still bear that resentment while feeling that it was the Soviet bloc that helped them fight back against Western colonialism. The fact that the Soviet bloc (a) helped them to destroy the free world and (b) intended to put them under the communist boot is irrelevant. What matters is that the Soviet blocthat is, the Russianswas the agent of change.

Third, writes Mehta, The war in Ukraine is seen by the Global South as mainly about the future of Europe rather than the future of the entire world.

The southern hemisphere is correct. This is strictly a European war. Putin may want to fulfill the Soviet destiny of dominance across all Europe and England, but theres no indication that his territorial ambitions extend to any part of the southern hemisphere. And again, for people who are facing daily starvation, the Ukraine-Russia war is a first-world, European problem that really doesnt matter to them. Theyd like the war to end simply to help lower prices (food, fuel, debt service, etc.) that are eating away at their scarce resources.

Fourth, The world economy is no longer American dominated or Western led and the Global South does have other options.

I have nothing to add to that. Its self-evident and self-explanatory, although Mehta offers lots of data to support it.

And fifth, Mehta writes, The rule based international order is lacking in credibility and is in decline. In a nutshell, its the hypocrisy that sees the West, especially America, changing the rules for itself as it goes along. As Mehta says,

For decades now, for many in the Global South, the West is seen to have had its way with the world without regard to anyone elses views. Several countries were invaded at will, mostly without Security Council authorization. These include the former Yugoslavia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Syria. Under what rules were those countries attacked or devastated, and were those wars provoked or unprovoked?

The Wests fondness for sanctions isnt appreciated either, again considering the poverty and famine that dog the southern hemisphere.

Back in 1985, when there was a famine in Ethiopia, a lot of rockers got together to sing We Are The World. It wasnt true then, and its less true now. We are not the world, and our concerns do not match those in the southern hemisphere, while our quarrels hurt them badly.
Barely a decade after the pioneering flight of the Wright brothers at Kitty Hawk, the worlds first scheduled passenger airline service began in 1914 between St. Petersburg, Florida and Tampa across Tampa Bay. The airline was known as the St. PetersburgTampa Airboat Line. The service was short-lived and the airboat that the airline operated was capable of carrying only one passenger at a time, but the value it provided paved the way for modern commercial air flights.

A Model 14 Benoist floatplane flying above Tampa Bay.

The idea for the airline originated with Florida-based electrical engineer, Percival Elliot Fansler, who was working at that time as a sales representative for a manufacturer of diesel engines for fishing boats. Fansler became interested in airplanes while experimenting with high speed boat racing. He realized that the only way to achieve even greater speeds was to take the boats to the air. In 1912, legendary pilot Antony H. Jannus made a record-breaking long distance flight from Omaha to New Orleans. This 40-day trip was widely featured in American newspapers and magazines, and Fansler avidly followed Jannuss flight along the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers.

Shortly after this historic flight, Fansler contacted Thomas W. Benoist, whose company manufactured the airplane that Jannus flew, expressing desire to buy an airplane. After exchanging a few letters with Benoist, Fansler conceived of the idea of starting a commercial airline service. Benoist became enthusiastic of the idea, and immediately agreed to build and provide two flying boats and crews, while Fansler would select the route and work out all the details.

Thomas W. Benoist

Antony H. Jannus

Fansler decided that a line could be operated between St. Petersburg and Tampa. The distance was about 23 miles, fifteen of which were along the shore of Tampa Bay, and the remainder over open water. Fansler first went to Tampa to present his idea to city officials and businessmen, but found no one there was interested in issuing an airline franchise. He then went to St. Petersburg, then a city of about 9,000. The officials of St. Petersburg was warm to the idea, and in many ways, Fansler realized, that St. Petersburg was the most ideal city for an airline. The winter weather was good, and the city was flocked with tourists who formed a pool of potential customers. Most importantly, St. Petersburg, located at the tip of a peninsula, remained effectively isolated from the rest of the world. The trip from St. Petersburg to Tampa by steamer took 2 hours, and 12 hours by train. The drive by automobiles was unthinkable, given the condition of the roads and the relatively premature technology of automobiles itself. A trip by airplane would take only twenty minutes.

Fansler convinced twelve businessmen from St. Petersburg to put up $100 each to back the airline scheme. He received another $1,200 from the secretary of St. Petersburgs Board of Trade. An agreement was quickly signed according to which the Benoist company would supply the planes and the pilots and would maintain two scheduled flights daily between St. Petersburg and Tampa, six days a week for three months. For each day that the airboats flew, Fanslers backers agreed to pay the airline $40 a day during January and $25 a day thereafter. The service was to begin on January 1, 1913.

The route of the worlds first scheduled flight.

Benoist arranged for one of his airplanes to be shipped by train to St. Petersburg. The Model 14 Benoist airboat No. 43 arrived at the St. Petersburg freight yard on December 30, just two days before the scheduled beginning of the airline. The airplane was powered by a 75-horsepower engine, that gave her a top speed of 64 mph. It weighed 1,250 pounds (567 kg), was 26 feet long and had a wingspan of 44 feet. The hull was constructed of three thicknesses of spruce with doped fabric layered between them. Six water-tight compartments in the hull made the craft buoyant in the water. Although the plane was built to hold only a pilot and one passenger on a single seat, sometimes two small passengers could be accommodated.

On January 1, some 3,000 people gathered at the municipal pier to see off former Mayor Abraham C. Pheil, who was to be the first passenger. Phiel had bagged the only ticket by winning the auction of the same with a bid of $400. The airline donated the money to the city for the purchase of harbor lights.

Before the flight began, Fansler addressed the crowd. He said: The Airboat Line to Tampa will be only a forerunner of great activity along these lines in the future. A new factor in transportation has come above the horizon  literally  and within a few days the air above Tampa Bay and its tributaries will be filled with swiftly moving craft carrying passengers on a regular schedule at rates little above those charged for land trips in hired automobiles.

Pilot Jannus begins his takeoff run for the first flight by a scheduled airline in history.

At exactly 10 a.m., Jannus taxied the airboat out of the harbor and soon was on its way to Tampa. Less than half an hour later, the flying boat touched down on the Hillsborough River in Tampa. An even bigger crowd of 3,500 spectators was awaiting Jannus arrival. After exchanging greetings with Tampa mayor and posing for a few photographs, Jannus and Pheil returned back to St. Petersburg before another cheering crowd. Decades later, Pheils wife, Mrs. Lottie C. Pheil recalled her husbands eagerness and her fear. She remembered, He had talked about it for several days. He was dead set on going. I was home when the bidding was conducted for the honor of being the first passenger, and did not know that he had bid the highest. When I got there, he was in the plane

about to take off. I was worried all the time he was gone.

The same day, another flight took off from St. Petersburg taking Noel A. Mitchell on a successful round-trip across the Tampa Bay. The next day, Mae Peabody of Dubuque, Iowa, flew to Tampa becoming the first woman passenger to fly on a fixed-wing scheduled airline.

Regular operation of the airline commenced at once. The price of a one-way ticket was fixed at $5. Passengers were allowed a maximum weight of 200 pounds gross, including hand baggage. Anything over that weight was charged at $5 per hundred pound. While $5 per trip was high compared with the cost of rail or steamship, it barely covered the costs of operations. When Tom Benoist was asked how he intended to make profit, he stated, There are at present about 30,000 tourists in the area and I believe a great many of them will patronize the airboat line to save time. Besides, I am anxious to demonstrate the capability and practicality of aerial transportation at a price anyone can afford even if such a low rate means a revenue loss to me, for todays loss could very well be tomorrows profit.

From left to right: P.E. Fansler, former St. Petersburg Mayor A.C. Phiel, and pilot Antony H. Jannus stands next to the Benoist XIV flying boat on January 1, 1914.

The demand for the service was so high that two additional flying boats were pressed into service toward the latter part of January. The airline operated successfully for three months, during which it made a total of 172 regular trips, ferrying 1,205 passengers and clocking an estimated 7,000 air miles.

The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line was not only the first scheduled airline in the world, but it also was the first subsidized airline, the first airline to be regulated by the government and the first airline to require government licensing of its pilots, writes Thomas Reilly in Tampa Bay History. In addition, the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Lines insistence on safety-first produced the so-called pilots choice in which the decision to fly or not fly was left to the pilot. The airline proved the dependability, practicality and safety of scheduled air service.

After the success of the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line, Benoist and Jannus initiated the development of a large new flying boat capable of transatlantic flight. The two men developed the Type XV flying boat, capable of remaining aloft for 40 hours with six passengers on board. But before it could fly, World War I broke out. On October 1916, Jannus was using a Curtiss H-7 to train Russian pilots, when he had engine problems and crashed into the Black Sea, killing him and his two students. His body was never recovered. Benoist met a similarly unfortunate fate. In 1917, he was fatally injured when he was struck by a telephone pole when riding in a streetcar. He died within three hours of the accident.

A plaque at the entrance to St. Petersburg International Airport today proudly proclaims: The Birthplace of Scheduled Air Transportation. A replica of the historic Benoist No. 43 airplane hangs at the airport terminal baggage claim area. Another replica is on display at the St. Petersburg Historical and Flight One Museum. There is also a monument to this historic flight at Benoist Centennial Plaza in St. Petersburg.

The Worlds First Airline Monument at Benoist Centennial Plaza, Pier District - St. Petersburg. Photo: The City of Saint Petersburg

References:

# Eugene F. Provenzo Jr., The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line, The Florida Historical Quarterly

# Thomas Reilly, The St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line: 90 Days that Changed the World of Aviation, Tampa Bay History

# The story of the world's first airline, International Air Transport Association

# St. Petersburg Tampa Airboat Line: Worlds First Scheduled Airline Using Winged Aircraft, HistoryNet
Having to pay hundreds of dollars to repair your device is never fun. This is something that companies like Samsung and Apple have gotten a lot of flack for. Both companies, including Google, have their own self-repair programs, but Nokia is looking to outdo them. The Nokia G22 is a smartphone thats extremely easy to repair on your own.

Nokia doesnt grace the headlines as much nowadays, but the Finnish company just recently updated its logo. Sure, companies change their logos, but this is the first time that the company changed its logo in over six decades. The logo was pretty simple before, the new logo is much more minimalist.

The new font is notably thinner with the O being a true circle rather than being closer to a rounded rectangle. The most notable thing about the new logo is the fact that there are strokes missing from the N, K, and the A. Its one of those logos that use negative space to imply lines.

The Nokia G22 is extremely easy to repair

Nokia has been out of the limelight for years now, so it looks like the company is in need of a shift in direction. This new phone, announced at MWC 2023, looks to prioritize repairability over other things. Its a 149 mid-range phone that will offer you an experience accordingly. The main thing about this phone is that its built around repairability.

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Components like the battery are extremely easy to remove at home. Most other phones have their batteries glued in place. This makes it tedious and actually dangerous to remove them. Other components are equally as easy to take out and swap out.

Obtaining parts to repair your phone is also a sinch, as Nokia partnered with iFixit. This is the same company that Samsung and Google partnered with for their programs. Youll be able to get parts like batteries (22.99), charging ports (18.99), and displays (44.99).

As for the rest of the phone, it has a 6.7-inch 720 display at a respectable 90Hz. The phone uses the Unisoc T606 SoC and thats backed up by 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, Keeping the light on os a 5050mAh battery. It will run Android 12 out of the box with two platform upgrades planned for it.

The Nokia G22 will launch in the UK on March 8th, and will also launch in Europe at some point. Unfortunately, the company didnt express any plan to launch the phone in the US.
Last week, Samsung released the One UI 5.1 update for the 5G model of the original Galaxy Z Flip. The company is now pushing the new One UI version to the LTE model as well. The update is also available for the Galaxy A23, a mid-range phone launched last year.

As of this writing, Samsungs One UI 5.1 update for the Galaxy Z Flip LTE is currently rolling out to users in Australia. The new firmware build number for the first-ever clamshell foldable Galaxy smartphone in the region is F700FXXUAJWAD (via). The Korean behemoth should globally release the update over the next few days. The handset was sold in the US too, with both carrier-locked and unlocked options. One UI 5.1 should reach all of those phones soon.

That said, even the 5G model hasnt received the new One UI version anywhere outside Switzerland so far. Samsung released the update in the European country last week but hasnt expanded the release anywhere else. Hopefully, it will not take much longer. the new firmware version for the Galaxy Z Flip 5G in Europe is F707BXXU7JWAD. It may vary slightly in the US and other markets, but the content will mostly remain the same.

Speaking of content, this update brings plenty of goodies to Samsungs first-gen Flip models. Firstly, youre getting the February 2023 Android security patch that fixes more than 50 vulnerabilities across the Galaxy ecosystem. On top of that, there are tons of new features and improvements for your phone. New selfie effects, Shared Family Album, enhanced gestures for efficient multitasking, improved modes and routines, and dynamic widgets are a few major additions. You can check out Samsungs official One UI 5.1 changelog for the Galaxy Z Flip 5G here.

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Samsungs Galaxy A23 is also getting One UI 5.1

Samsung has also released the One UI 5.1 update for the Galaxy A23. The device is picking up the update with firmware version A235FXXU2CWB4 in Ukraine. It is getting the February security patch and a host of goodies, though not as many as the Galaxy Z Flip or other flagship models. A wider One UI 5.1 rollout for the Galaxy A23 should be just around the corner. The handset wasnt released in the US.

This is the humblest Galaxy phone to get the new One UI version so far. Part of the 2022 Galaxy A lineup, the device follows premium models Galaxy A33 5G, Galaxy A53 5G, and Galaxy A73 5G in the party. Samsung also released a Galaxy A23 5G last year, which arrived in the US too, but it has yet to get One UI 5.1. We will let you know when the rollout begins for the 5G model of this budget handset.
Google says that its Android partners, including Samsung, are committed to longer update support moving forward. Announced at Mobile World Congress this week, the effort is all in an attempt to make sure users stay connected. Since its beginning, Android has had one issue that has stuck out more than most. Software updates. While most brands tend to update their devices at least once when it comes to major OS releases, many dont support their devices for long.

This fragmentation is generally the biggest hurdle that Android has a platform. Though it is worth mentioning that over the years, Google and its Android partners have gotten much better at keeping devices updated. And it seems its only going to get better moving forward.

Samsung isnt the only partner committed so longer Android update support

Samsung is easily the biggest partner here, but its hardly the only partner. In its blog post, Google confirms that Samsung, Xiaomi, OPPO, and OnePlus are all committed to supporting Android for longer periods of time. This includes both OS updates and security updates. Ensuring that devices (like the Galaxy S23)are kept up to date with new features and kept safe.

The goal here is to extend the lifetime of devices. This way users dont have to replace them as often. In the long run, this benefits both the company and the user. Brands like Samsung are recognized as an Android partner that keeps its devices updated and fresh for as long as possible. And the user saves money, should they choose to keep their device longer.

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Google doesnt mention any specific lengths of time here. But longer support for OS and security updates, regardless of how long it is, is a good thing. Of course, that doesnt necessarily mean updates will start pumping out faster. But at the very least theyll hit devices for longer than they used to.
2022 was the year of rapid layoffs by big companies like Netflix, Amazon, Google, Twitter, Meta, and so on. Twitter was hit the hardest because, while the number of layoffs was low compared to other companies, it lost about half of its staff. Now, according to The New York Times (via BBC), Twitter just laid off another 200 employees.

This definitely isnt a good look for the company after the hard seas it had to weather over the past couple of months. The company seemed to be getting back on its feet as the social media platform wasnt in the headlines as much as in late 2022. Not only that, but the company was able to bring Twitter Blue back online and add some features to it.

The reason for all this drama was Elon Musks handling of the company, but the billionaire announced that he was going to step down as CEO sometime at the end of the year. This definitely made a lot of people happy, but we dont know whos going to replace him just yet.

Twitter laid off another 200 employees

Elon Musk bought the Bird App to make it, among other things, profitable. This is why half of the staff lost their jobs when he took the helm. Before he took over, Twitter was making just north of $1 billion every year. After purchasing the company for $44 billion, he raised the price of Twitter Blue from $5/month to $8/month ($11/month if you sign up through the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store).

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With those two factors, youd think that the company would start to see some better finances. However, thats not the case. According to the report, Twitter laid off about 10% of its remaining workforce which equates to about 200 people. This means that the companys workforce should be in the low 19,000s now.

Among the people cut are the Chief Executive of Twitter Payments Esther Crawford and Revue (purchased by Twitter in 2021) founder Martijn de Kuijper. As with most other layoffs, some employees woke up to find that theyd been kicked out of their email and company accounts.

So, at this point, we dont know how many employees the company is going to have before the job cuts stop. Well just need to wait and see.
Multiple sources have reported recently that Samsung is developing new types of hinges for its fifth-gen foldables. This redesign will significantly reduce the display crease on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. We now have some numbers detailing all the advantages that the new waterdrop hinge will bring to the foldable duo.

According to Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), the waterdrop hinge will significantly reduce the slope and strain on the foldable panel when the device is folded. Citing an official document, he is claiming a 57%drop in strain and a 66% in waviness of the screen along the fold line. This should prevent a crease from developing on the display over time.

The new hinge is also 0.3mm thinner and reportedly consumes 51 percent lesser space inside the phone. As such, Samsung will be able to make the device thinner without compromising on anything. The company has been trying to make its foldables less bulky. It appears that the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 will finally reflect those efforts. An early prototype has already shown a substantially thinner Fold.

Ross Young also claims that Samsung will make the foldable displays for the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5 in-house. This comes just a week after the Korean media reported that the company is in talks with Chinese display maker BOE for sourcing the screens for its fifth-gen foldables. Its unclear if the talks broke down or if either source is reporting incorrectly. We should get clarification in the coming months.

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Waterdrop hinges will make Galaxy foldables even better

Samsung arguably makes the worlds best foldable smartphones today, but much of that experience is down to its software. Galaxy foldables still have some notable hardware shortcomings, not least the display crease. Other companies have done a better job of eliminating the crease in just one or two attempts but the Korean firm has hardly made any progress even after four years of making foldables.

Now, with the competition rapidly growing in this niche market, Samsung may finally address the problem. If the company does succeed in making the crease will be less visible on the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5, it will make an even stronger case for its foldable devices.

It remains to be seen what other upgrades fifth-gen Galaxy foldables will bring to the table. The devices should go official in the second half of the year, probably in August. In the interim, we will keep you posted with all the latest information about them.
Kosovo:Meloni-Macron-Scholz to Vucic and Kurti,ok to EU plan Letter on eve of expected meeting tomorrow between two leaders

(ANSA) - BELGRADE, 26 FEB - On the eve of a new meeting tomorrow in Brussels between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz sent a joint letter to the two leaders urging them to take a responsible and constructive approach in the new EU-facilitated dialogue session, and urging them to accept the European plan for an agreement on the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina. Both Serbian and Kosovar media reported on the joint letter from the three European leaders to Vucic and Kurti. However, only the press in Pristina reported the content in part, while in Belgrade there was only a brief report of the letter received from the Serbian president. According to the Kosovo daily Koha ditore, which cites sources in Albin Kurti's government, Macron, Scholz and Meloni say they are convinced that the acceptance and implementation of the proposed European agreement is of fundamental importance for the general welfare of the citizens, for peace and prosperous development of the region, and for the advancement in the European perspective of Pristina and Belgrade. At the same time, the letter calls for the respect and implementation of the commitments made by the parties in the agreements already concluded in the dialogue, including the establishment of the Community of Serbian Municipalities in Kosovo. At the center of tomorrow's meeting is the proposed agreement on Kosovo developed in recent months by France and Germany, and endorsed by the European Union. The Serbian side has made it known that it intends to forcefully reintroduce the issue of the Community of Serbian Municiplities, which Pristina, however, continues to reject. Tomorrow's much-anticipated meeting in Brussels will begin at 3 p.m. with separate meetings that EU diplomacy chief Josep Borrell and European mediator Miroslav Lajcak will have with Vucic and Kurti, which will be followed by a collegial meeting between the three sides. A press point by Borrell is scheduled at the end. Tomorrow's meeting and prospects for resolving the complicated Kosovo issue were among the topics of telephone talks Vucic had today with Turkish President Redzep Tayyip Erdogan and Derek Chollet, special adviser to the U.S. State Department. (ANSA).





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TUNIS - After an 11-year-long renovation, the Tunisian historic mausoleum of Tourbet el Bey has reopened in the Medina of Tunis. During the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Najla Bouden stressed the crucial role of this monument-museum in the promotion of cultural and touristic activities in the medina of the city. The premier said more concerted efforts are necessary to fully take advantage of the potential of this architectural marvel, whose restoration cost nearly 120,000 dinars.



A piece of history of the Husaynid dynasty and a period spanning from 1705 to the proclamation of the Tunisian Republic on July 25, 1957, Tourbet El Bey was the cemetery of the Husayn Bey family, with many tombs of princes and princesses belonging to the dynasty. Designed as an historic monument, the site went through several renovations over the years and was transformed into a museum. It is possible to access the monument through a grand stairway that shows Italy's influence on its decoration, mixed with the Ottoman style, in particular in the Bey room. The mausoleum, which includes eight funerary chambers covered by domes, is built around two courtyards, covered in slabs, and surrounded by porticos built on Carrara marble pillars with neo-Doric capitals. These courtyards open, on each side, on a funerary chamber. Some of these rooms are connected. The only other building with this shape in the medina of Tunis is the mosque of Sidi Mahrez. The ceilings, both vaulted and dome-shaped, are decorated with stuccos with geometrical or vegetation motifs. The richness of colours is an indication of the rank of the people buried in the chamber. The walls are generally covered with ceramic tiles in orange and yellow, some of which were imported from Italy, in particular the area of Naples, while the others were manufactured locally.
CUTRO - The death toll from Sunday's migrant-boat disaster off the coast of Calabria climbed to 62 on Monday when rescuers recovered the bodies of three more people.

It is estimated that dozens of people are missing feared dead after a boat thought to have been carrying between 180 and 250 asylum seekers broke up in rough waters off the beach of Steccato di Cutro, near the southern city of Crotone.

Many of the confirmed victims of the disaster are women and children.

The bodies of 12 children have so far been recovered, including one baby.

Over 100 are feared dead, with many more children among the victims.

Around 80 people survived.

The boat departed from Turkey four days ago.

Many of the people on board were asylum seekers from Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and Syria.

Three people suspected of being traffickers have been detained by the Italian authorities in relation to the disaster, including at least one Turkish national, sources said.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella has called on the European Union to bring in a collective mechanism to manage the arrival of asylum seekers after the disaster.

In a statement expressing "pain" at the loss of life, the head of State called for a "strong commitment from the international community to remove the fundamental causes of migrant flows: wars, persecution, terrorism and territories made inhospitable by climate change.

"It is equally important," he added, "that the EU finally assumes concrete responsibility for governing the phenomenon of migrants to take them away from human traffickers by direct efforts in migratory policy".

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "deeply saddened by the terrible shipwreck off the coast of Calabria.

"The resulting loss of life of innocent migrants is a tragedy," she continued via Twitter.

"All together, we must redouble our efforts on the Pact on Migration & Asylum and on the Action Plan on the Central Mediterranean".

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed "profound pain at the many human lives taken by human traffickers".

But she also attacked those who "speculate with these deaths after having glorified the illusion of unregulated immigration" and said her government was committed to "impeding the departure" of migrant boats in order to avoid such "tragedies".

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said "desperation can never justify travel conditions that endanger the lives of one's children".

Meloni's government is trying to discourage search-and-rescue ships run by NGOs in the Mediterranean, saying they encourage migrant boats to attempt hazardous sea crossings, and has passed a decree regulating their activities.

Elly Schlein, the newly elected leader of the opposition, centre-left Democratic Party (PD), said the government has the disaster on its "conscience" after "approving a decree that impedes sea rescues".

Statements by Meloni and Piantedosi allegedly implying migrants brought tragedy on themselves by attempting the perilous Mediterranean sea passage to Italy are a "slap in the face" for the scores of victims of the shipwreck, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said Monday.

"I say this with the respect that is due to the victims, with grief for what happened, and also with the firm intention, as requested by Premier Meloni, not to speculate on these tragedies. But we cannot help but say with anger that the first statements by Prime Minister Meloni and Minister Piantedosi are little more than a sad blame game, yet another slap in the face of the victims and survivors of this tragedy", said Marco Bertotto, director of programmes for MSF Italy during a press conference on the Crotone shipwreck.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for the creation of safe routes for asylum seekers in the wake of the disaster.

"Yesterday the umpteenth terrible shipwreck in the Mediterranean caused the death of dozens of people seeking a better future for themselves and their children," Guterres said in Geneva.

"But as long as criminal gangs control the migration routes, people will continue to die.

"We need safe, orderly and legal routes for migrants and refugees.
MILAN - For 14 years his mission was to make children living in war-torn countries smile with the red nose of a clown. Thanks to this commitment, Marco Rodari, 47, who is from Leggiuno, a small village near Varese, in Lombardy, was given a merit award by President Sergio Mattarella. Rodari dedicated the honour to "all the children experiencing war".



The good news reached him when he was in Ukraine, in the area of Kharkiv, where he was giving four performances a day for kids. Instead of a stage, however, he performs in cellars and air-raid shelters.



"Performances here are all underground - he told ANSA over the phone -, it is normal in Ukraine and it is also necessary to guarantee the safety of children who are now used to living like this". Marco Rodari, known as Claun Pimpa, left for Ukraine last March shortly after the beginning of the conflict. Overall, he has travelled to the war-torn country six times so far, moving to different areas. "Children don't move, it's the clown that visits them", he said. "After a year of war, the saddest thing for me is to see the dead look in their eyes, full of fear.



Sometimes they keep to themselves and they don't talk, so it's even more beautiful when they smile again, it's an incredible emotion".



Marco Rodari, who is president of the association 'Per far sorridere il cielo - Claun Pimpa' (to make the sky smile - Claun Pimpa), has been touring the world since 2009 to bring a smile to children living in war-torn countries. He travelled first to Gaza, then Iraq, Syria and Ukraine last year. He joins missionaries or NGOs operating on the ground to provide humanitarian aid to populations. He plays his part by bringing laughter and some hope.



Rodari learned justa a few days ago that he would be awarded the honour of 'Cavaliere' of the Italian Republic and he wasn't only joyful for this reason but also because he made a little girl happy. "I was taken to the home of this two-year-old girl" who is sick, he said. "She was in a destroyed village, together with her mother, and she didn't talk, I think due to the trauma she suffered. She just needed to see a clown to start talking and smiling again, and this was a huge joy for me. Shortly after that, someone called to tell me I had become Cavaliere", he said.
BEIRUT - Most of the half a billion US dollars presumably earned illegally over the years by the controversial governor of the Lebanese central bank, Riad Salameh, who is under several investigations, were deposited in Swiss bank accounts, according to Lebanese media reports on Monday. The reports quoted an investigation carried out by Swiss newspapers.



According to the press reports, 12 Swiss banks over the years received the majority of public money - some 500 million dollars - diverted by Salameh since the early 2000s towards Swiss banks, with the help of his brother Raja Salameh and a series of aides.



The banks involved in the ongoing judicial investigation in Switzerland are Hsbc, Usb, Credit Suisse, Efg, Julius Baer, Pictet. The transactions reportedly occurred at different times through bank accounts of an offshore company registered in the British Virgin Islands. Considerable sums were then used to buy real estate properties in different European countries, according to judicial sources quoted by Swiss media.



The head of the Lebanese central bank for 30 years and considered by many as the banker of oligarchs in power in Lebanon since the end of the Lebanese civil war (1975-90), Salameh is under investigation in Switzerland, in Lebanon and in other European countries over alleged financial crimes committed since the early 2000s. A few days ago, a Lebanese judge pressed new charges against Salameh, his brother Raja and an aide of the governor. For his part, Salameh continues to proclaim his innocence, rejecting all charges. His mandate will expire in May but the political elite in power is evaluating the possibility of extending his mandate amid the financial default announced in Lebanon in 2020.




Tunisia apprehends 151 sub-Saharan migrants 'They entered or resided illegally in country'

(ANSAmed) - TUNIS, FEBRUARY 27 - Tunisian national guards apprehended on February 25 a reported 151 migrants from several sub-Saharan countries who "entered Tunisia illegally from Algeria and/or were irregularly residing in Tunisia", said a spokesperson on Facebook. The national guards' spokesperson explained that the operations took place in several regions of the country.(ANSAmed).




Yemen: UN seeks 4.3 bn dollars in aid for 2023 Donors' conference opens in Geneva

(ANSAmed) - GENEVA, 27 FEB - The UN needs 4.3 billion dollars to assist 17.3 million people, the most vulnerable in war-torn Yemen, in 2023, the UN announced ahead of a conference of international donors on Monday to obtain funding for humanitarian operations in the country.



The high-level event is promoted by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and by the governments of Sweden and Switzerland.



After years of war, Yemen remains a huge humanitarian emergency. Over 21 million people, two-thirds of the country's population, will need assistance and humanitarian protection in 2023, said a UN statement.



Although a six-month-long truce last year brought some relief to civilians, suffering is still present, mainly due to the deteriorating economy of the country and the collapse of basic services.



"Without important support to humanitarian aid - the UN warned - the lives of millions of Yemenis will be on the brink and efforts to end the conflict once and for all will become even more difficult". (ANSAmed).




ALGIERS - Lieutenant general Said Chengriha, Algeria's army chief of staff, discussed military cooperation and ways to strengthen it with the secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Nikolai Patrushev, Algerian State television reports. Chengriha received the Russian official while he was visiting Algeria as the head of an important delegation, said the broadcaster, reporting that the two officials exchanged "analyses and points of view on issues of common interest".



"This visit shows the firm and explicit will of our two countries to strengthen the strategic and historic partnership that characterizes our bilateral relations, in particular in the field of military cooperation", said the head of the Algerian army. "I believe that the efforts to contribute to the instauration of peace and sustainable development, on which Algeria and the Russian Federation are associated, in the respect of the sovereignty of States, is fully compatible with consolidated and historic principles on which close relations of bilateral cooperation have developed, based on reciprocal confidence and on the common interests of the two countries", he added.



For his part, Patrushev stressed the "depth of historic relations uniting Algeria and Russia", praising the "central role of Algeria and the great efforts to bring peace and stability in the region".



The Russian official's visit comes a few days after the Algerian presidency announced the visit of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to Russia in May. Algeria, according to observers, is one of the most important military allies for Moscow in the African continent, as well as one of the top clients of Russian weapons in the region.
Greece says Europe needs more 'organized asylum' States sign joint declaration after two-day border conference

(ANSAmed) - ATHENS, 27 FEB - Fifteen participating EU member states signed a Joint Declaration of Conclusions on Friday after the 2nd European Border Management Conference came to a conclusion in Athens on Friday.



The two-day conference in the Greek capital, which also featured Austria, Lithuania and Poland as "co-hosts", provided a platform of discussing on the pressing issues around migration, with Greece's Minister of Migration and Asylum Notis Mitarakis delivering a keynote speech which, among other things, called for "organized asylum", saying that today human traffickers "try to sell positions in our societies".



The joint declaration was made up of nine key points, which included requests for the European Commission to step up its efforts both financially and in terms of measures and legal frameworks to allow European countries to balance effectively protecting external borders and offering organized asylum to those in real need.



The statement of the declaration begins: "We recall the positions taken under the Joint Statement which a number of Member States signed on 21 January 2022 in Vilnius regarding external border protection, instrumentalisation of irregular migration, support for frontline Member States, security and integrity of the Schengen area and external actions to prevent and to counter irregular and secondary migration, including capacity building in the area of border management in relevant third countries along the major migratory routes," while adding: "In line with European Council conclusions of 9 February 2023, we underline the importance of the effective control of EU's external borders.This requires legal, financial, operational and technical measures as well as a whole-of-the-route approach." More effective border control was a key theme in the declaration, reiterating the need of reinforcing each country's operational capabilities, also where possible with neighboring countries, as well as infrastructure (mobile and stationary), means of surveillance (including pre-frontier aerial surveillance) and equipment.



The idea is that EU external border protection could be further strengthened by means of common minimum standards for external border surveillance. However, being a shared responsibility, this requires substantial EU funding and full use of the potential of relevant EU agencies.



And it is on this topic that the EU member states asked the European Commission to support. On its part, Greece has already begun to make preparations to strengthen border protection on land and at sea with government officials fearing a new spike in migration as a result of the devastating earthquakes in southern Turkey and northern Syria.



Attempts by undocumented migrants to cross into Greece on boats from Turkey have been on the rise since the autumn, and the Greek government released figures last month showing a huge increase in the arrivals of migrants to the country year on year - to the tune of 96% in 2022 versus 2021. (ANSAmed).




Migrant shipwreck: in 10 years only government propaganda - NGO '7 cabinets, no concrete solution', Comitato Tre Ottobre

(ANSAmed) - ROME, FEBRUARY 27 - The president of the Comitato Tre Ottobre, an NGO set up after the October 3, 2013 shipwreck off Lampedusa that killed 368 migrants, has denounced that nothing has changed since the tragic event, in the wake of a new shipwreck recorded off Calabria. "Once again, we are looking at the images of bodies floating at sea, bodies that asked for help, bodies nobody wanted to help", the president of the organization, Tareke Bhrane, told ANSA. "This year marks the tenth anniversary of the massacre of October 3: in 10 years, seven governments have changed and nobody has found a concrete solution. There continues to be propaganda on these people. It is very important for Italy and Europe to intervene, avoiding propaganda".



"A war must not be waged against those saving lives. Nobody will pay for these deaths. I hope authorities will recover all bodies because this allows the identification for families and to give the victims a worthy burial", concluded Bhrane.(ANSAmed).




Baroness Betty Boothroyd, the former professional dancer who became the first woman Speaker of the House of Commons, was a stern, noisy but always affable and homely disciplinarian of MPs.

Apart from the novelty of her gender as Speaker, history will record her as one of the outstanding holders of this office, certainly in the 20th century.

With an unsubtle, cheery and broad Yorkshire quip, she could defuse a dangerous or tense situation in the Chamber, and transform the snarls of MPs into gusts of laughter.

It was with a winning smile and a raucous shout that Betty Boothroyd regularly reduced rowdy MPs to something approaching silence. And it was typical of her breezy nature that when she was asked how she would like to be addressed as Speaker, replied instantly: Call me Madam.

When the House voted her into the chair, she insisted on sitting without the traditional full-bottomed wig. But this did not detract from the authority she exuded  her silver-grey hair and no-nonsense approach to the task made her a formidable and imposing Speaker.

Before her days as a Deputy Speaker and then as Speaker itself, she was an active Labour back-bencher, proudly on the right of the party and scornful of intractable left-wingers as well as being the scourge of infiltrating Militants.

Following the sad news that the Rt Hon. Betty Boothroyd has passed away, we have lowered the flags to half-mast in New Palace Yard. She leaves behind a powerful legacy, and she will be missed. pic.twitter.com/f4hEx1bq1J  Sir Lindsay Hoyle (@CommonsSpeaker) February 27, 2023

As a member of the partys ruling national executive committee in this period, she was a staunch defender of Labours traditional values and made no secret of her hostility towards those hard-liners who constantly peddled the red blood of socialism theme. They were, in her language, headbangers.

But she continued to hanker after her Labour roots, even when she was Speaker. And although she could not demonstrate this in public, Lady Boothroyd once confessed that her associations with the party remained with her like the dirt in your fingernails.

And shortly before she retired as Speaker  in October 2000  she confessed that the red blood of socialism still flowed through her veins.

Betty Boothroyd was born on October 8 1929, the daughter of textile workers in Dewsbury, Yorkshire, where she attended council schools, followed by a spell at Dewsbury Technical College of Commerce and Art. She made no attempt to conceal her Yorkshire upbringing.

She joined the Labour League of Youth at the age of 16 but her first instinct was to be a dancer. Lady Boothroyd worked as a professional dancer from 1946 to 1948 and appeared in pantomime in Londons West End as a member of the Tiller Girls chorus line.

But her first love was politics  and she quit the dance studios. She contested a seat on Dewsbury Council in 1950 and was elected to Hammersmith Borough Council in 1965. Lady Boothroyd unsuccessfully contested four parliamentary seats before being elected to West Bromwich (later to become West Bromwich West) in 1973.

Betty Boothroyd as a Labour candidate in 1968 (PA)

The following year she became an assistant whip. She supported the idea of Labour joining the Socialist group in the European Assembly against the general line of the party at that time, June 1975.

In fact, her commitment to Europe was such that she resigned as a whip to concentrate on the European Assembly later that year.

However, she made her name within the party structure by her unrepentant, straight-from-the-shoulder condemnation of the left. Lady Boothroyd described the selection of Michael Foot as leader as a disaster  which in electoral terms proved to be accurate.

And she called on the party to rid itself of headbangers, extremists and Militants. Lady Boothroyd led the womens section of the executive with 4.8 million votes in 1983, and the same year she said that every male chauvinist was some womans son misshapen by her.

She bitterly opposed moves by left-wingers Tony Benn and Eric Heffer to suspend the Commons over the miners strike in the mid-1980s.

Her actions vividly epitomised a commentators description of her at the time as a hammer of the Left, who comes gift-wrapped and smelling of roses compared to the terrible Edith Summerskill.

Lady Boothroyd was the second woman (and first Labour woman) to be voted a deputy speaker in July 1987. She quickly stamped her style and authority on the job, demonstrating she could be tough and successful when some of her colleagues were timid and less impressive.

She was a cross of wit and practicality, blending discipline and jocularity, someone who, according to another commentator, enjoys large gins and large diamonds.

The Queen accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh being welcomed to the Palace of Westminster in 1996 (John Stillwell/PA)

She was elected Speaker in April 1992 at the age of 62. The voting was 372-238  a majority of 134  over Peter Brooke, the former Northern Ireland Secretary. Her vote was boosted by 74 Conservative MPs.

Lady Boothroyd was fearless in her protection of MPs rights and the authority and sovereignty of Parliament. Once she warned High Court judges not to interfere in the way Parliament handled the Maastricht Treaty when the Bill was passing through its tumultuous parliamentary procedures.

And she was prepared to adopt a firm line over those who like, Peter Preston, then editor of The Guardian newspaper, forged a fax on House of Commons notepaper in an investigation into Ministers alleged sleaze.

She also unhesitatingly rebuked even Cabinet Ministers if she thought fit. Once, in a criticism of the then Education Secretary, John Patten, she said she deprecated most strongly the leaking of education spending proposals in the Budget some hours before the Chancellor had risen to his feet.

And she roundly rebuked left-winger Dennis Skinner for taking the Speakers chair while most MPs were listening to the Queens Speech in the Lords in November 1993.

Bluntly she told him she took the most serious view of this type of horseplay, adding: I think we have heard and seen enough of the Honourable Member for Bolsover for one day.

She was even popular with those who occasionally proved troublesome in the House. Once after she had ejected the Democratic Ulster Unionist leader Dr Ian Paisley from the Chamber, he later congratulated her for the gracious way she had thrown him out.

She once said that her worst moment, which occurred early during her Speakership, was her tussle with Tory Michael Mates when he tried to make his resignation speech after quitting as a Northern Ireland Minister following an incident involving the fugitive from justice Asil Nadir.

He persisted in making his speech, even though Lady Boothroyd continually accused him of breaching the sub judice rule.

Betty Boothroyd outside the House of Commons in 1998 (Tony Harris/PA)

Lady Boothroyd strongly deprecated the growing habit, during the Tony Blair 1997 administration, for the Government to announce new policies to press conferences rather than face the Opposition in the House of Commons.

She described herself as pleasantly plump and had no inhibitions about what she ate. I just like good food, beef steaks, and I enjoy the House of Commons chips. They are terrific.

And Lady Boothroyd attributed smoking  about a packet a day  to what she described as her lovely deep voice. Of all her attributes for the chair, her voice was an important feature.

She retired from the Speakership in October 2000. Her announcement the previous July about her impending retirement took MPs by complete surprise. Afterwards she was elevated to the House of Lords, and took her seat in January 2001. She was awarded an Order of Merit in the spring of 2005.

In July 2009, she underwent successful open-heart surgery.

In an exclusive interview with the PA news agency in 2020, current Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle gave an insight into Lady Boothroyds forthright nature.

Sir Lindsay revealed that she regularly called him to get (him) put in (his) place, telling him whether he was getting things right or wrong and encouraging him to tell him (the Prime Minister) straight.

Lady Boothroyd was an outspoken critic of Brexit, campaigning to remain in the European Union and after the referendum urging peers to use the entire arsenal of our powers over the legislation to limit the damage to Parliament and the national interest.

She said she could not recall a comparable crisis of such prolonged intensity and danger to the national interest and was bemused now to find it is the winning side that is blowing a fuse.

Lady Boothroyd remained unmarried and once insisted that although she was a loner she had never been lonely.
Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen are set to sign off on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland as Conservative Eurosceptics warn the devil is in the detail.

The Prime Minister and the European Commission President will hold final talks in Windsor, Berkshire, on Monday before she will controversially go on to meet the King.

But even if long-awaited changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol are agreed it is likely to be only the start of the most challenging week of Mr Sunaks premiership.

He is battling to win the support of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) so they agree to restore powersharing in Northern Ireland to get Stormont back up and running.

After arriving in London on the Eurostar, Ms von der Leyen said she was looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend.

Both Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen have arrived at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor Park, Berkshire, for the final talks.

Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg put Mr Sunak on notice of a possible Tory revolt if the DUP does not support the deal, despite major concessions expected from the EU.

The former Cabinet minister told GB News: It will all depend on the DUP. If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

Im glad to be in the UK today to meet with Prime Minister @RishiSunak. Im looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend. pic.twitter.com/GuyMzy2wbj  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2023

He said that the position of Boris Johnson, who he described as the biggest figure in UK politics, will be fundamental.

So, if the DUP doesnt think that it meets its test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs, Mr Rees-Mogg added to ITVs Good Morning Britain.

Im afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say we need to see the legal text, they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.

Arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister who had been on resignation watch, gave Mr Sunak his support.

Leaving No 10, he told broadcasters: I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.

(PA Graphics)

But Charless meeting with Ms von der Leyen at Windsor Castle was criticised as constitutionally unwise by Mr Rees-Mogg because it involves the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and first minister of Northern Ireland, said it was crass and will go down very badly with the unionists Mr Sunak is trying to win over.

Meanwhile, Conservative Eurosceptic Theresa Villiers argued that it is crucial for Mr Sunak to give MPs a vote on the deal, as Downing Street declined to commit to one.

The former Northern Ireland secretary told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I cant conceive of circumstances where something as significant as this could be finally agreed and implemented without MPs voting on it in Parliament.

She said she will consider the deal itself as well as talking to the DUP before deciding whether to support it but stressed the importance of restoring powersharing.

I will be talking to constituents, talking to colleagues and talking to the DUP because I want to see a deal which delivers a return to powersharing in Northern Ireland  thats crucial, she said.

Its intolerable that weve got the protocol undermining political stability in Northern Ireland.

Prime Minister @RishiSunak and I agreed to continue working in person towards shared, practical solutions under the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. I will therefore meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow in the UK.  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 26, 2023

Sir Keir Starmer reiterated his partys support for any deal struck but said the real test now is whether Mr Sunak has got the strength to sell it to his backbenchers or not.

After a speech in the City of London, he said it is almost inevitable that the European Court of Justice (ECJ) will have to play some part after the deal, a contentious point for the DUP.

But he said weve got to make progress on Northern Ireland before making real changes to the wider Brexit deal.

The Prime Minister will speak to the EU chief at lunchtime before briefing his top ministers in a virtual meeting of the Cabinet.

Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen will then set out the deal to voters in a joint press conference before the Prime Minister makes a statement to MPs in the Commons.

Tory Brexiteers on the European Research Group (ERG) will convene MP Sir Bill Cashs so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the deal before deciding whether to back it.

The protocol, signed by Mr Johnson as PM in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit.

Northern Ireland continues to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests the Prime Ministers protocol deal must meet (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

But the trade barriers created between Northern Ireland and Great Britain has angered Unionists.

The DUP collapsed powersharing in Stormont last year in protest at its impact, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing.

Chief among them is addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

No 10 officials said Mr Sunak would be entering into the talks with Ms von der Leyen looking to return sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland, Downing Street officials said.

Rishi Sunak arrives for the talks (Dan Kitwood/PA)

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to Britain on Saturday to hold talks with Mr Sunak, as well as reportedly meet the King at Windsor Castle for tea, but the plans were scrapped.

DUP chief whip Sammy Wilson said the move would have been dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

The deal is expected to include check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a substantial scaling back of the role of the ECJ.

But he refused on Sunday to rule out the court having a say on future legal cases, which could prove to be a flashpoint for DUP resistance.

If Mr Sunak does allow a Commons vote, he is likely to win because Labour has agreed to support it. But he would want to win without relying on Opposition votes.
A British historian has laid bare the brutal horrors of the Holocaust in a stark warning against the return of far right hate.

Professor Dan Stone, author of The Holocaust: An Unfinished History, said the ripple effect of the extermination of six million Jewish people in the Second World War was still being felt.

And nearly 80 years on, the threat of genocide remains as the world faces multiple crises including the climate emergency and war in Ukraine.

In an interview with the PA news agency, Prof Stone said: Antisemitism remains a live issue. Racism is a live issue.

I think the fault lines that have been created in the world now will exacerbate those issues, particularly the climate emergency.

The growth in the number of climate refugees  which we can fairly confidently predict is going to happen in the coming decades  will obviously be instrumentalised by the far right. You can see this happening already.

The attacks on migrants, the attack in Knowsley, the attempt by the far right to mobilise people against migrants, I think thats only going to increase.

He called for more human solidarity to solve the worlds problems rather than blaming minority groups.

Genocide doesnt happen because a couple of individuals wake up one morning and think, Oh, Im going to kill all the x, y, or z. It happens as an unfolding of a dynamic process in society usually in times of crisis or warfare, he said.

Police in riot gear outside the Suites Hotel in Knowsley, Merseyside (Peter Powell/PA)

Prof Stone, who is director of the Holocaust Research Institute at Royal Holloway, University of London, said the Holocaust remains embedded in modern culture and something society will never be done with.

We only have to think about Vladimir Putin talking about de-Nazifying Ukraine as a pretext for invasion, to see that Holocaust memory continues to shape the geopolitics of the world that we live in, he said.

The rise of the populist right and Brexit, the climate emergency, all of these things shape the way that we see the world differently. That drives us to interpret the Holocaust differently.

In his newly published book, Prof Stone sheds light on little-known facts and tackles common misconceptions that he said urgently needed to be corrected.

While the Holocaust concerned the persecution of German Jews by the Nazi regime from 1933, this group only account for about 5% of the victims, with most being in eastern Europe, he said.

There are over a million of them whose names we still dont even know because whole communities were simply wiped out.

Auschwitz in Poland was the apogee of the Nazi death camp (Owen Humphreys/PA)

That also means that not only Germans were perpetrators. This is really crucial  everywhere that the Nazis went they found collaborators. The Holocaust is a continent-wide crime.

It spread out as far afield as France, Romania, Norway, the Netherlands, Ukraine and Hungary, with perpetrators ranging from antisemitic ideologues to peasants looting their Jewish neighbours pots and pans, Prof Stone said.

He also dismissed the idea of German death camps as the epitome of industrial genocide and efficient factory line killing.

He said: Auschwitz is the apogee of the death camp system that the Nazis built. But it doesnt help if we only think in those terms.

The whole process was much, much more brutal and shocking. It was an extraordinarily brutal and violent and horrific way to die. Extremely messy, visceral and unpleasant.

He went on: Secondly, the majority of the victims of the Holocaust were not killed in death camps.

Half a million Jews starved to death or died of diseases in the ghettos in occupied Poland.

About a million and a half were murdered by bullets, shot face-to-face outside the towns that they lived in in eastern Europe.

Many others died on death marches and in other circumstances.

With the exception of the Channel Islands, Britain was not directly affected by Nazi occupation but it was still intimately involved in the Holocaust story, Prof Stone said.

Jewish monument at Bergen-Belsen prisoner of war and concentration camps in Lower Saxony, Germany, which were liberated by British soldiers in 1945 (PA)

The news about the killing of Jews filtered through to Britain through wire intercepts in 1941 onwards, he said. There was a huge amount of intelligence about what was going on in the Nazi camps and, of course, the British Army liberated Belsen so the British were deeply involved in almost all aspects of the Holocaust.

Prof Stone accepted some people may feel Holocaust fatigue but said the targeting of a group of people for total extermination should trouble any thinking person, as should the persistence of paranoid antisemitic conspiracy theories.

He said: Antisemitism is a variety of racism. The attack on Jews, as Jews, is no different from an attack on any other group of people.

All that historians can do is to try to explain what happened, why the Nazis thought the way they did, and say that this is such a kind of crazed ideology that the continued existence of it in the world needs to be challenged.

While the diverse voices of extraordinary survivors was important, Prof Stone warned against overlooking the consequences of mass killing.

And Holocaust commemorations can vary from the kitsch and truly terrible to deeply moving ones such as the memorial in Berlin to book burning on May 1 1933, he said.

Prof Stone said Holocaust education in schools should be reserved for older teenagers.

If you want to teach young children the values of being nice to one another and not bullying and not saying racist slurs you dont need the Holocaust to do that, he said.

Its really only appropriate for older teenagers to tackle in a serious way.

Learning about the Holocaust cannot make the world a nicer place, he said: You have to create a nicer world first, and then people will be more receptive to the lessons of Holocaust education.
Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said that the EU had moved a lot to facilitate a deal to improve the Northern Ireland protocol, and that negotiations would be difficult to reopen.

Mr Varadkar stayed quiet on what would happen if the DUP were to reject the Windsor Framework, saying the party should be given time to study the text of what had been agreed.

He said the free flow of goods and people on the island of Ireland had been maintained and the EUs single market had been protected as part of the revised protocol.

What is different is that there will be no restrictions on trade when it comes to goods moving from Britain into Northern Ireland, or goods moving from Northern Ireland to Britain, he said on Monday .

Its a uniquely positive arrangement for Northern Ireland businesses in particular, that trade can flow freely back and forth from Britain to Northern Ireland, without any need for any checks or complications, provided those goods stay in Northern Ireland.

The Fine Gael leader also said that relations between the EU and UK had not been so positive for years, helped by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his team building up trust, and by negotiations being kept confidential.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

The Taoiseach was speaking outside Government Buildings in Dublin as Mr Sunak defended his deal in the House of Commons, including in response to questions from some unionist MPs.

Irelands deputy leader said the EU-UK deal represented a genuine attempt to address key unionist concerns.

Foreign affairs minister Micheal Martin said the new EU-UK deal ensures that Northern Ireland benefits by having unique access to both the EU single market and the UKs internal market.

I heard first-hand the concerns of many unionists, he said in a statement after the Windsor Framework deal.

I believe they will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns.

This new framework will, for example, ensure that the same food will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland as in the rest of the UK.

Medicines will also be available to people in Northern Ireland at the same time and under the same conditions as the rest of the UK.

Mr Varadkar echoed these comments, saying: The European Union has moved a lot, moved a lot to facilitate a new agreement for Britain.

Brexit was a concept on paper before it happened, but the same was the case for the protocol.

Understanding how Brexit and the protocol affected trade movements in reality allowed us to understand better what aspects of it maybe werent necessary, and we were able to take some of those away.

Although he did not comment on whether further negotiations were possible, he said the deal was hard-won, took a huge amount of work on both sides to get to this point and, as always is the case, is something thats very, very hard to reopen.

Political parties in Northern Ireland said they would assess the text underpinning the agreement, in the wake of the announcement by Mr Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The DUP said it would engage with the British Government to seek further clarification, reworking or change as required, while Sinn Fein will meet on Monday to discuss what has been agreed.

Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald listed the Good Friday Agreement, no hardening of the border on the island of Ireland and continued access to the EU market as its priorities.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he would compare the deal against the partys seven tests.

Mr Martin urged a focus on restoring Northern Irelands powersharing institutions, saying it was clear the people of Northern Ireland wanted an Executive to be formed.

I appreciate that some time may be needed to consider the detail of the deal, but I would urge political leaders in Northern Ireland to act quickly, to put in place institutions that can respond directly to the needs of the people of Northern Ireland, he said.

Both Mr Martin and Mr Varadkar signalled that the deal could mark a turning point in the UKs relationship with both the EU and Ireland, which has been strained in recent years.

I cant remember a meeting of a UK prime minister and European Commission president that has gone so well in a very, very long time, long before Brexit, Mr Varadkar said.

So I can see the possibility there for a very good relationship between the UK and the European Union, a real economic and security partnership into the future.
The Kings constitutionally unwise meeting with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has angered unionists as Rishi Sunak sought their support over the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

Leading Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg said it was wrong to involve Charles in the immediate political controversy on the day the Prime Minister signed a new agreement with her.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader and first minister of Northern Ireland, said the meeting in Windsor Castle was crass and will go down very badly.

I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.  Arlene Foster DBE PC #ProudofNI. (@ArleneFosterUK) February 27, 2023

Buckingham Palace said Charles was acting on the Governments advice. Downing Street said it was fundamentally a decision for the King.

Charles welcomed Ms von der Leyen to Windsor Castle at the end of her busy day following a joint press conference with Mr Sunak to outline the new deal dubbed the Windsor Agreement.

The briefing for the major political development, which in some ways aims to heal tensions between the UK and EU, was staged at Windsor Guildhall where the King and the Queen Consort married in 2005, a ceremony that set the seal on their long relationship.

Charles was pictured warmly shaking hands with the EU chief in a drawing room of the royal residence where they were served tea during their discussions said to be very productive.

Topics covered included climate change and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but it is not known if Northern Ireland was on the agenda.

There have been reports suggesting the meeting was arranged following a direct approach by the EU chief to Buckingham Palace, but this would be highly unusual as the normal channels of communication would go through the UK Government.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so.

But ahead of the Kings audience with Ms von der Leyen, Mr Rees-Mogg, a former Cabinet minister, said: It is surprising that The King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.

Baroness Foster added: I cannot quite believe that No 10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen arriving at Windsor Castle.. Stefan Rousseau/PA

We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.

There had been warnings the meeting could draw the King, who as head of state must remain politically neutral, into the process of the UK and EU agreeing a deal or be seen as tacitly endorsing it.

Before the King and EU chief met, Downing Street defended the move to advise the King to meet Ms von der Leyen, saying Mr Sunak fundamentally believed the final decision was for Charles.

He firmly believes its for the King to make those decisions, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said.

He compared the von der Leyen meeting to Charles talking to Polands Andrzej Duda or Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen during their press conference at the Guildhall in Windsor. Dan Kitwood/PA

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, he said: There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant locations, this is no different.

Conservatives were among those voicing their criticism of the meeting before it was even confirmed, following suggestions the deal would be called the Windsor Agreement.

And Sammy Wilson, the DUPs chief whip said the expected meeting would risk dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

Royal commentator Peter Hunt, tweeted about the King: Hes abandoned his unifying role and entered the political fray, in a foolish bid to be seen as statesmanlike.

History wont be kind. Someones head will roll.

European Commission deputy chief spokeswoman Dana Spinant insisted the meeting was not part of this process to secure a deal.
Lib Dem Leader Sir Ed Davey has urged ministers to scrap Aprils planned rise in the energy price guarantee and cut bills, instead.

Sir Ed warned the new price hikes will be a hammer blow to families and businesses, arguing action is needed now to save people from a cost-of-living cliff edge.

Average bills are expected to rise from 2,500 to 3,000 if the cap is amended.

But the Liberal Democrats would scrap the hike and reduce the average energy bill to 1,971  the level it was last April.

They would fund the move with their windfall tax plan and by imposing a one-off bonanza bonus tax on oil and gas bosses making millions from energy bills, similar to the bankers bonus tax in 2009-10.

According to the party, this would save the average household an estimated 400 on their energy bills over the next 12 months.

For the least well-off households, the Liberal Democrats would also introduce extra targeted support, including doubling the Warm Homes Discount to 300.

Sir Ed said: The Conservatives plan to hike energy bills in April will come as a hammer blow to families already struggling with soaring mortgages and rents, shopping bills and tax rises.

With no plan to deal with this cost of living crisis for people or businesses, this chaotic, out-of-touch Government is instead making it much worse because they just dont get it.

He insisted Rishi Sunak must act now to save families from a cost-of-living cliff edge, by cutting energy bills instead of increasing them.

Sir Ed added: If theres no extra energy help for businesses, it will be more than salad and vegetables in short supply as firms, as well as farms, are forced to close.

To add insult to injury, its just obscene that Rishi Sunak is happy for energy bosses to rake in millions of pounds in bonanza bonuses, while families struggle to put food on the table or heat their homes.

People deserve a fair deal  with a large cut to their energy bills, paid for by a proper windfall tax and a one-off levy on the bonuses of oil and gas bosses.

The party also called on the Government to perform a U-turn on its plans to reduce energy bill support for businesses, schools and hospitals by 85%, and instead extend current levels of support for another six months.

They said their plan would mostly be funded through money already budgeted for energy support, but now unspent due to falling energy prices.

The additional funds would be raised by a windfall tax on the record profits of oil and gas companies, including removing the fossil fuel investment loophole and raising the rate of the windfall tax from 35% to 40%.

This, they said, could raise at least 15 billion more than the Governments current Energy Profits Levy.
Irish foreign affairs minister Micheal Martin has said an EU-UK deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol represents a genuine attempt to address key unionist concerns.

Irelands deputy leader said the new EU-UK deal ensures that Northern Ireland benefits by having unique access to both the EU single market and the UKs internal market.

I heard first-hand the concerns of many unionists, he said in a statement after the Windsor Framework deal.

I believe they will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns.

This new framework will, for example, ensure that the same food will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland as in the rest of the UK.

Medicines will also be available to people in Northern Ireland at the same time and under the same conditions as the rest of the UK.

Political parties in Northern Ireland said they would assess the text underpinning the agreement.

The DUP said it would engage with the British Government to seek further clarification, reworking or change as required, while Sinn Fein is due to meet on Monday night to discuss what has been agreed.

Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald listed the Good Friday Agreement, no hardening of the border on the island of Ireland and continued access to the EU market as its priorities. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he would compare the deal against the partys seven tests.

Mr Martin urged the focus to turn to restoring Northern Irelands powersharing institutions, and that the deal poses an opportunity to reset British-Irish relations.

I appreciate that some time may be needed to consider the detail of the deal, but I would urge political leaders in Northern Ireland to act quickly, to put in place institutions that can respond directly to the needs of the people of Northern Ireland, he said.

People in Northern Ireland have been clear that they wish to see an executive formed.

Earlier on Monday, Mr Martin said: I think the resolution of these issues will give an opportunity to really reset the British-Irish relationship into the future.

So its very, very important for us that the EU-UK relationship is normalised and  to use (EC) President (Ursula) von der Leyens words  that the UK is seen as a partner and a friend, and not a source of ongoing friction between the EU and the United Kingdom.
Changes in peoples shopping habits caused by the the cost-of-living crisis could create opportunities for fraudsters, according to internet safety website Get Safe Online

Around six-in-10 people surveyed (62%) said they had altered the way they shop, as household finances continue to be squeezed, while 43% of online shoppers said they are seeking out special offers and deals more regularly.

Get Safe Online, which published the research, said three-in-10 people had noticed an increase in fake websites and sellers when shopping online.

Falling for a purchase scam is easier than you think. Unfortunately, fraud is committed by highly skilled, professionally-organised people who employ web designers and rent call centres to give off the appearance of a legitimate company, said Tony Neate, CEO of Get Safe Online.

Many people still believe that fraud is easy to spot, and isnt something that can happen to them, however amateur adverts and websites are becoming a thing of the past.

Today, people can make a living out of tricking people out of their money, going to great lengths to lure you in. Its upsetting at the best of times, but the impact is felt more profusely when money is tight.

More than nine-in-10 people surveyed (92%) said they are taking proactive steps to keep their money safe from online purchase scams, including taking care before clicking on links and avoiding websites that ask for too much personal information.

Opinium surveyed 2,000 people across the UK in February.

Here are Get Safe Onlines tips to avoid purchase fraud:

 Pay by card. Fraudsters like bank transfers and will encourage people to pay via this method.

 If possible, see goods in person before buying. Fraudsters take the time and effort to create profiles or websites that make you believe they are a genuine seller.

 Look beyond the item and price. Stop and think to check whether a purchase is safe.
Half of Scots think the Holyrood government has done a bad job of handling strikes, a new poll has revealed.

Research by Ipsos found that while just over a fifth (22%) believed the Scottish Government had done a good job of handling such industrial disputes, 50% thought it had done badly.

That compares to the seven out of 10 people across the UK who think the Westminster government has done a bad job of dealing with strikes  with less than one in 10 believing the UK Government has done a good job of this.

Scotland is the only part of the UK which has so far avoided strike action by NHS staff.

49% of those surveyed backed strike action by teachers

33% of those surveyed said they were against the teachers' strike

However, teachers across the country are to take part in nationwide strike action for the next two days, which will result in many schools across Scotland being closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

About half (49%) of Scots back that action, compared to the 33% who are opposed to it.

Meanwhile, two-thirds (66%) of Scots said they would support a strike by nurses, with a fifth of those polled (21%) opposed to such action.

Similarly, 65% said they would support strike action by ambulance drivers and paramedics, with 22% against this, while 57% would support junior doctors walking out, with a quarter (25%) opposed to this.

The findings were released after Ipsos questioned 1,087 adults in Scotland between January 30 and February 1 this year.

Emily Gray, managing director of Ipsos in Scotland, said: With Scottish teachers about to embark on a further two days of strikes, our poll shows that more people in Scotland support than oppose this action.

Health workers are not currently taking strike action in Scotland, but this data suggests they would have strong public support should this change.

The Scottish public is more divided on strike action by other groups  including university and college lecturers. However, they are more likely than people across Britain as a whole to think that workers should have more power in general.

More than half (53%) of Scots questioned said they believed workers have too little power  higher than the 38% recorded for this across the UK.

Meanwhile, only 7% of Scots think workers have too much power, while 32% believe they have about the right amount.

Almost a quarter (24%) think trade unions have too much power in Scotland  but about the same proportion (25%) believe trade unions have too little power, while 36% think they have the right amount.

Nearly a third (32%) think employers have too much power in Scotland, compared to the 13% who say bosses have too little power, while two-fifths (40%) say they have the right amount.

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: Ministers continue to work with trade unions to ensure that fair and progressive pay offers are made to public sector workers across Scotland, despite the constraints of the Scottish Governments fixed budget.

The Scottish Government believes a progressive approach to industrial relations and to trade unionism is at the heart of a fairer, more successful society.

We remain fully committed to strengthening the voice of Scotlands workers and protecting their rights, including the right to take industrial action.

The Scottish Government strongly opposes the UK Governments Minimum Services Levels Bill, which will limit workers right to strike, as it would with any Bill that undermines legitimate trade union activity and does not respect Fair Work principles.
The Scottish Government has called for the UK Government to continue the energy price guarantee at its current rate after Ofgem revealed they would lower the energy price cap.

Ofgem announced on Monday that the energy price cap would be lowered from the current 4,279 per year to 3,280 for the average household.

But bills will still increase in April, as the UK Governments energy price guarantee will become less generous as the 400 winter discount on bills comes to an end.

Energy Secretary Michael Matheson said the move by Ofgem strengthened the case for the UK Government to reverse its plan to scrap the energy price guarantee.

Michael Matheson has called for the UK Government to reduce household energy bills (Fraser Bremner/PA)

This remains an incredibly unsettling time for many thousands of households.

What matters now is that the UK Government urgently re-assesses the measures it has in place which, at present, would see the average domestic bill increasing from 2,500 to 3,000 from April 1 at the same time as its 400 Energy Bills Support Scheme is ended, he said.

Mr Matheson said the increase will result in there being 980,000 households in Scotland in fuel poverty  an increase of 120,000.

I call, once again, on the UK Government to provide additional, targeted support for vulnerable households who are struggling with their energy costs, he added.

The Scottish Government is continuing to do everything in our power to mitigate the impact of the energy price crisis on consumers, this includes doubling our Fuel Insecurity Fund to 20 million in the current financial year.

But only long-term, sustained action is required to truly break the fuel poverty cycle.

The key energy policy levers remain with the UK Government, who continue to fail to take the necessary steps  which only it can take  to ensure that households and businesses never experience this situation again.

Conor Forbes, director of policy with Advice Direct Scotland urged anyone struggling with bills to seek advice from their supplier.

He said: The important thing to remember is no one should struggle alone, and help is available.

We would urge anyone struggling with energy costs to reach out to their supplier who may have a hardship fund that could help.

Our energyadvice.scot service also provides free, practical advice on the support and assistance available, such as grants.

Advisers can also help with understanding energy bills and make referrals to sources of support for those struggling to pay and ensure that households are claiming all the benefits they are entitled to.

Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey echoed Mr Mathesons calls to not end the energy price guarantee and said the UK Government could easily afford to reduce energy bills in April.

Sir Ed said: People are already struggling to afford their rents and mortgages, food shopping and bills.

It is unforgivable that the Conservatives are choosing to push desperate families over the edge by hiking their energy bills by another 500.

Ministers must listen to our calls for an energy rescue package to save families and businesses from this cost of living cliff edge, funded through a proper windfall tax.

Mr Mathesons call was echoed by the head of an energy charity in Scotland as he appeared before a committee of MPs on Monday.

Frazer Scott, the chief executive of Energy Action Scotland, told the Scottish Affairs Committee the real cost of the energy crisis would be paid in lives lost.

What I would like to see is a financial package of support thats commensurate with the level of distress and detriment thats being experienced across all our communities.

I certainly dont feel that the package as proposed for 2023-24 does recognise that.

The price well pay will be in the lives being lost and the health and wellbeing declines that will happen across our communities, and in particular our rural communities.
Former home secretary Priti Patel has branded reports a criminal murdered a man after avoiding being deported absolutely appalling.

Ernesto Elliott was due to be flown back to Jamaica in December 2020 but was taken off a deportation flight after successful last-minute legal challenges which were supported by celebrities and Labour MPs, the Daily Mail reported.

Just six months later  in June 2021  he and his son Nico Elliott stabbed 35-year-old Nathaniel Eyewu-Ago who chased them through Greenwich in south east London after they robbed him of cash and drugs. He later died in hospital after being stabbed in the heart, the Metropolitan Police said.

Video posted online captured the vicious street fight and showed the men lunging at each other with large knives in broad daylight.

Court staff confirmed 45-year-old Ernesto Elliott was last month jailed for life with a minimum term of 26 years at Woolwich Crown Court after being found guilty of murder and robbery.

His 23-year-old son was also handed a life sentence and will have to serve at least 22 years behind bars, the Met said.

When asked about the incident at a Policy Exchange event in central London on Monday, Ms Patel said: I was heavily involved in that as home secretary at the time, and Im afraid, as ever, we came up against various specialist immigration lawyers, Labour MPs but also celebrities who for some reason thought that they should stop a deportation flight of foreign national offenders going back to Jamaica, and that was completely wrong.

The individuals that were meant to go on that plane had a range of criminal activity amongst them, murderers, rapists, people who had done horrible things to children. And it was right that they should have been put on that flight.

So Im afraid it is absolutely appalling that individual who should have been on the plane basically was taken off the flight and went on to commit murder.

In December 2020, campaigners tried to halt a scheduled deportation flight to Jamaica amid ongoing concerns over the Windrush scandal  with some of the people on board granted a last-minute reprieve after fresh asylum and modern slavery claims were made.

The Home Office insisted the flight was to remove dangerous foreign criminals from the country, including those convicted of rape and murder.

None of the people had been born in the UK or was eligible for the Windrush compensation scheme, the department said. Although officials would not say whether any had immediate relatives who were from the Windrush generation.

A Home Office spokeswoman said: Foreign national offenders who exploit our system and commit crimes here in the UK will face the full force of the law, including deportation at the earliest opportunity for those eligible.

The government is committed to stopping abuse of the immigration system, taking decisive action against those who try to play the system.

While legal challenges can frustrate immediate deportation, we remain resolute in our commitment to deport those who abuse our hospitality.
A new law raising the legal age of marriage to 18 has been hailed as a huge victory for survivors.

From Monday, 16 and 17-year-olds can no longer wed or enter a civil partnership in England or Wales  even with parental consent  in an effort to better protect children from forced marriage.

The change, under the Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act, means it is now a crime to exploit vulnerable children by arranging for them to marry under any circumstances, whether or not force was used.

The law will cover non-legally binding traditional ceremonies which would still be viewed as marriages by the parties and their families, the Government said.

The new legislation has been described as a huge leap forward in fighting back against the hidden abuse of forced marriage.

Natasha Rattu, director of the Karma Nirvana charity which is a member of the Girls Not Brides Coalition, said she hopes there will be better identification and reporting of such cases.

She said: The change to legislation on child marriage is a huge victory for survivors. It is a huge leap forward to tackling this usually hidden abuse and will provide a greater degree of protection to those at risk.

Last year, the national Honour Based Abuse helpline supported 64 cases of child marriage, representing only a small picture of a much bigger problem. We hope that the new law will help to increase identification and reporting, affording greater protection to children at risk.

The Governments forced marriage unit provided advice or support in 118 cases involving victims aged under 18 in 2021.

The Ministry of Justice said the statistics showed forced marriage is more likely to impact girls than boys, with 2018 figures for England and Wales showing that 28 boys married under the age of 18 compared with 119 girls.

Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said perpetrators will face the full force of the law, with someone found guilty of arranging child marriages potentially getting a sentence of up to seven years in prison.

Pauline Latham introduced the Bill to Parliament and has welcomed the change in the law (Chris McAndrew/UK Parliament/PA)

He said: This law will better protect vulnerable young people, by cracking down on forced marriage in our society.

Those who act to manipulate children into marrying under-age will now rightly face the full force of the law.

Conservative MP Pauline Latham, who introduced the Bill in Parliament in 2021, said Monday is a landmark day for the campaigners who have worked relentlessly for over five years to ban child marriage in this country.

She added: Child marriage destroys lives and through this legislation we will protect millions of boys and girls over the coming years from this scourge.

Safeguarding minster Sarah Dines said the Government is working to ensure that, as well as the new law, training and guidance is provided to equip police, social workers and other frontline professionals to support and safeguard victims.
Rishi Sunak has said his decisive breakthrough on post-Brexit rules will remove trade barriers for Northern Ireland and give the UK a veto on EU law as he seeks the backing of unionists.

The Prime Minister hailed the controversially named Windsor Framework as marking a new chapter on relations with Brussels that he hopes will restore powersharing in Stormont.

But European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the replacement to the Northern Ireland Protocol still includes a role for the European Court of Justice  a key issue for the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

The pair finalised the long-awaited deal to improve the agreement signed by Boris Johnson more than three years ago after a meeting in Windsor lasting under two hours.

The EU chief went on to have tea with the King at Windsor Castle, despite criticism that the meeting would drag Charles into the politically contentious agreement.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed significant progress, but said that there remain key issues of concern including the remnants of EU law as his party considers its next step.

Mr Sunak said Parliament will have a vote at the appropriate time, and that vote will be respected after coming under pressure to give MPs a say on the deal.

A key part of the deal is an emergency Stormont brake on changes to EU goods rules that can be pulled by the Northern Ireland Assembly that Mr Sunak said would give the Westminster Government a veto.

The Prime Minister said it is a very powerful mechanism for Stormont to use when it has concerns over EU law.

At a press conference in Windsor Guildhall, the Prime Minister said: Im pleased to report that we have now made a decisive breakthrough.

Together we have changed the original protocol and are today announcing the new Windsor Framework.

Todays agreement delivers smooth-flowing trade within the whole United Kingdom, protects Northern Irelands place in our union and safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said he believes the deal is a turning point for Northern Ireland that addresses the concerns of the DUP, and is now hoping they will back it and restore powersharing in Stormont.

Standing beside the Prime Minister she warmly referred to as dear Rishi, Ms von der Leyen hailed a new chapter in our partnership that will foster a stronger EU-UK relationship.

She said Brussels will immediately start the ball rolling on the UK joining the EUs Horizon scientific research programme, marking a clear thawing of the tensions most visible under Boris Johnson.

Mr Sunak will scrap his predecessors controversial legislation to override parts of his own protocol deal, and in turn Brussels will end its legal action against the UK.

The support of the DUP, which collapsed powersharing last year over the protocol, be crucial for winning the backing of Conservative Brexiteers in the Commons.

Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg warned Mr Sunak of a possible Tory revolt if the DUP does not support the deal, despite major concessions from the EU.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak greets European commission president Ursula Von Der Leyen at the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel in Englefield Green, Windsor, Berkshire (Dan Kitwood/PA)

The former cabinet minister told GB News: It will all depend on the DUP. If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

He said that the position of Mr Johnson, who he described as the biggest figure in UK politics, will be fundamental.

A source close to the former prime minister said that he is continuing to study and reflect on the Governments proposals.

But arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister who had been on resignation watch, gave Mr Sunak his support over the really fantastic result.

He told the BBC that reasonable unionists will support the deal, while those who would dig a moat between the North and the South will never be happy.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer confirmed his party will support the deal, meaning Mr Sunak is bound to win the Commons vote, but he will want to succeed without relying on the Opposition.

Charless meeting with Ms von der Leyen was criticised as constitutionally unwise by Mr Rees-Mogg because it involves the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and ex-first minister of Northern Ireland, said it was crass and will go down very badly with the unionists Mr Sunak is trying to win over.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen during a press conference at the Guildhall in Windsor, Berkshire (Dan Kitwood/PA)

Mr Sunak will travel back to London to make a statement to MPs.

Tory Brexiteers in the European Research Group (ERG) are to meet on Tuesday and will convene MP Sir Bill Cashs so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the deal before deciding whether to back it.

The protocol was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit but means Northern Ireland has continued to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

Unionists anger over the trade barriers in the Irish Sea culminated in the DUP collapsing powersharing in February last year, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly.
Sunak set for Brexit treaty D-Day as he holds final talks with EU on protocol

Rishi Sunak appears to be on the verge of agreeing a Brexit deal aimed at easing trade friction in Northern Ireland as he enters into final talks with the European Union.

The Prime Minister will meet European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor, Berkshire, on Monday to discuss a range of complex challenges around the Northern Ireland Protocol, Downing Street said.

No 10 raised the prospect that the talks could produce a breakthrough moment after months of negotiations with Brussels about fixing the protocol.

The Conservative Party leader, following on from his discussions with the EU chief, is planning to brief his Cabinet before potentially announcing to voters and MPs the details of any agreed deal.

Mr Sunak told the Express.co.uk that should he shake hands with Ms von der Leyen on a pact that works for all, it would show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job.

He added: This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.

But the protocol D-Day comes fraught with risks for the Prime Minister.

If any potential agreement fails to meet the red lines set by the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), it could mean the party continues to abstain from restoring devolved government in Northern Ireland and put him on a collision course with hardline Brexiteers on his own backbenches.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

The Times, however, reported that Cabinet ministers had briefed MPs that they could expect to have their say on at least part of the deal.

The protocol, signed by former prime minister Boris Johnson in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit, with Northern Ireland continuing to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

Prime Minister @RishiSunak and I agreed to continue working in person towards shared, practical solutions under the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. I will therefore meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow in the UK.  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 26, 2023

But the trade barriers between Northern Ireland and Great Britain created by the treaty has created Unionist tension, with the DUP collapsing powersharing in Stormont last year in protest at its impact.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing, including addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

No 10 officials said Mr Sunak would be entering into the talks with Ms von der Leyen looking to return sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland, Downing Street officials said.

He will speak with the EU leader at lunchtime before holding a virtual Cabinet session from Windsor to brief them on what he has managed to secure.

(PA Graphics)

Those most closely involved, including Foreign Secretary James Cleverly  who has met regularly in recent weeks with commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic  and Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, are expected to join him in person.

Should London and Brussels sign-off on a protocol revision, Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen will hold a joint press conference.

Mr Sunak plans to travel to Westminster afterwards to give a statement in the House of Commons.

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to Britain on Saturday to hold talks with Mr Sunak, as well as reportedly meet the King at Windsor Castle for tea, but the plans were scrapped.

If an agreement is announced on Monday, it is not known whether Downing Street plans to revisit the idea of the German politician meeting Charles.

No 10 was reportedly keen, had a protocol solution been unveiled on Saturday, to brand it the Windsor Agreement.

The cancelled plans were seized upon by critics, with the Prime Minister accused by DUP MP Sammy Wilson of dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

There has been little detail from No 10 on what is currently on the table in terms of a fresh pact but Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab appeared to hint at what might be in a new deal during interviews on Sunday.

Mr Raab indicated that reports of check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland were correct and that efforts had been made to give Belfast a role in approving new EU laws that would apply to the province.

The Leave campaigner said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a substantial scaling back of the role of the European Court of Justice (ECJ), but he refused to rule out it having a say on future legal cases.

The continued application of Brussels-made laws and the influence of European judges in Northern Ireland after Brexit has irked Tory Eurosceptics and the DUP, putting Mr Sunak at risk of a backbench revolt if he calls a vote on a deal that permits either.

He is likely to win any division but Mr Sunak is keen to avoid needing Labour votes, with the Opposition party supporting a revised deal, to secure victory.

A Government source quoted by The Times said the Prime Minister had obtained far-reaching concessions from the EU.

The newspaper said that Northern Ireland may still have to follow future EU rules but that they would only be imposed after consultation with London and Belfast.
UB40 visit phenomenal school where their music is on the curriculum

Hit-makers UB40 have been visiting a school to hear how the bands repertoire is now part of the curriculum for its music-loving pupils.

About 400 pupils from St Edwards Catholic Primary School in Selly Park, Birmingham, took part in a special assembly, all about the band on Monday.

The reggae pop groups discography has been taught as part of the pupils oracy education  teaching youngsters how to express themselves grammatically and with fluency  and involved Year One to Year Six performing renditions of some of the groups most commercially successful hits.

The bands current line up  Robin Campbell, Earl Falconer, Norman Hassan, Jimmy Brown, and lead singer Matt Doyle  all attended, describing it as a phenomenal experience.

Campbell, among the founder members of band which has never shied away from being political, also said it would be really good if we get into the politics with the kids as well.

During a morning assembly in front of the group, children reeled off all the facts they had learned about UB40, including when the group formed, and how many top 10 hits they achieved.

The pupils told how they had also learned how the bands name had come from the unemployment form of the same name.

UB40 performing at the closing ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games (Tim Goode/PA)

A mock news report by a Year 6 pupil told how the musicians were famed for crowd-pleasing songs including Red Red Wine, One in Ten and Kingston Town, and were known globally, having sold 70 million records.

Year Four had the groups heads bobbing along as they sang Higher Ground, also signing the words to the lyrics.

In a question from one of the pupils about where the band would be in five years, Campbell joked in a nursing home, before adding: Well carry on until we drop.

He told how the line-up was always changing, and how his brother Ali Campbell left the band 15 years ago, while fellow original members saxophonist Brian Travers and Astro had died.

Among the audience of pupils was 11-year-old Olha Tartasiuk, from Kyiv, Ukraine, who only came to the UK 10 months ago, but whose family already knew UB40 songs.

She said: I am so happy, when I told my Dad I was meeting UB40 he said: Oh my gosh, I cant believe it.

My dad knows their music, my mom knows their music, its really good.

Jess McDonald, class teacher, oracy lead and self-confessed massive fan of the group, said: We believe in a broad and balanced curriculum with a holistic approach.

Our children come from diverse backgrounds, different cultures and religions and we feel UB40, being from Birmingham, and reflecting that diversity  the children can really relate to them.

Pupils at St Edwards Catholic Primary School in Birmingham held a special assembly for members of UB40 (Jacob King/PA)

These children can look at UB40, having learned about them the past few weeks, seen their faces, and can think: You know what, that can be me.'

She said the bands music had quite literally brought the family of one of the pupils  who had been having a tough time  closer together, singing their songs in the car on the way to school.

The reggae pop band, formed in 1978, played their first gig in the Hare and Hounds, in Kings Heath, Birmingham, going on to enjoy huge commercial with over 50 hit singles in the UK chart  and have just returned from sell-out gigs in the United States and Australia.

Afterwards, founder members, drummer Jimmy Brown and guitarist Robin Campbell, said the day had been phenomenal and emotional.

Campbell said: The fact that kids are studying our music in a school  I never thought our music could become part of a curriculum at a school.

When they sang Higher Ground, particularly, it got quite emotional, because it made me think of the guy who wrote the song  Brian Travers, who passed away.

It would have moved him. It moved me.

Brown said: Were the luckiest people in the world.

Campbell added: We are very much aware we are a product of Birmingham, the fact it is a musical melting pot has created us, its why we play the music we do.

Our particular hybrid of reggae is unique to us  but it only exists because we come from Birmingham.

The band has always been firmly political in its music, with hits like 1981s One in Ten about unemployment, and the anti-apartheid anthem Sing Our Own Song.

Campbell said: It would be really good if we get into the politics with the kids as well, then, jokingly, he added: Get them into the lyrics of those songs that really matter  instead of Cant Help Falling In Love With You.
Bryce Barker, an Australian professor was released from a hostage situation in Papua New Guinea, along with two others (James Marape / Facebook)

An Australian professor who was held hostage by an armed gang demanding ransom in Papua New Guinea has been released, it was reported.

University of Southern Queensland vice-chancellor Geraldine Mackenzie has confirmed that Prof Bryce Barker was released in Paua New Guinea on Sunday.

His two other colleagues, who were also held hostage, have also been released.

A group of archaeology researchers  including Prof Barker, two Papua New Guinean university graduates and a programme coordinator - were taken hostage last Sunday by men demanding a cash ransom.

Ms Mackenzie told Sydney Morning Herald: We are relieved to confirm that our much-loved colleague from the University of Southern Queensland, Professor Bryce Barker, has been released today.

She added: Professor Barker and his research team were in Papua New Guinea undertaking archaeological research. Bryce is a highly regarded archaeologist and a valued colleague at the University of Southern Queensland and in the wider archaeological community. He has many years of experience in undertaking research in PNG.

Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea prime minister James Marape said the trio were freed following a covert operation involving his nations defence and police forces. One person was released earlier in the week.

The leader also apologised to the families of those taken as hostages for ransom.

According to Reuters, the research group were on a trip to the remote village of Fogomaiu in the Mount Bosavi region, near the boundary of Southern Highlands and Hela provinces when they were seized.

#BREAKING @unisqaus confirm safe release of Archeologist Bryce Barker from a hostage situation in PNG. Deepest thanks go to governments of PNG, Australia and NZ & the many people who worked tirelessly during this extremely difficult and sensitive time to secure their release. pic.twitter.com/tbJkUISnXC  Georgie Hewson (@GeorgieHewson81) February 26, 2023

ABC News reported that their release came after days of negotiations and a security operation involving Papua New Guinea police and defence personnel, in consultation with the Australian and New Zealand governments. It also named the women who were held with Prof Barker as Jemina Haro, Teppsy Beni and Cathy Alex.

Prof Barker is an Australian resident and a New Zealand citizen.

It took us a while but the last three has [sic] been successfully returned through covert operations, with no [ransom] paid, Mr Marape said.
By Sheila Dang

(Reuters) - Billionaire Elon Musk on Sunday accused the media of being racist against whites and Asians after U.S. newspapers dropped a white comic strip author who made derogatory comments about Black Americans.

The Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post and USA Today were among newspapers that canceled the cartoon "Dilbert" after its creator Scott Adams said Black Americans were a hate group and posted racist comments on his YouTube channel on Wednesday.

In replies to tweets about the controversy, the Tesla and Twitter chief executive said the media had long been racist against non-white people but are now "racist against whites & Asians."

"Maybe they can try not being racist," Musk tweeted.

In response to an account that said white victims of police violence get a fraction of media coverage compared to Black victims, Musk said the coverage is "Very disproportionate to promote a false narrative."

Musk did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Musk's views on social issues have been increasingly under the microscope since he took over Twitter in October.

He has sparred with civil rights groups over Twitter's level of protection against hateful content and the reinstatement of some accounts that previously had been suspended. Some advertisers have left the platform over concerns about brand safety, and Twitter has rolled out some new controls for ad placement.

Musk's latest tweets come after the Dilbert creator suggested white Americans "get the hell away from Black people". Adams, the cartoonist, was responding to a poll by the conservative Rasmussen Reports that said 26% of Black respondents said they disagreed with the statement "It's OK to be white."

The move to drop the cartoon was "not a difficult decision", the Plain Dealer newspaper in Ohio told its readers on Friday.

(Reporting by Sheila Dang in Dallas; Editing by Peter Henderson and Lisa Shumaker)
As the U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear arguments this week on legality of the presidents student loan forgiveness plan, the Education Department (ED), borrower advocates, and supporters of cancellation remain confident the law is on their side and litigation should result in a victory.

If the U.S. Supreme Court applies the law, then student loan debt will be canceled, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) said in a town hall sponsored by the Student Debt Crisis Center (SDCC). What Im afraid of is a Supreme Court that applies politics.

However, opponents also argue politics on Bidens administration.

The Biden administrations student loan bailout is a political gambit engineered by special interest groups, Representative Virginia Foxx (R-NC), chairwoman of the Education and the Workforce Committee, said in a press release. "Abusing the HEROES Act for such a ploy is shameful."

If the highest court in the land strikes down the forgiveness plan, the Biden administration has shared no plan B beyond its already-announced 60-day extension of its payment pause for the millions of borrowers.

That means preparing for a worst-case scenario is necessary for borrowers.

The Supreme Court of the United States of America (Credit: Getty Images)

Legal authority vs partisan politics

In the Texas case, Department of Education v. Brown, the Department of Justice (DOJ) argues that the HEROES Act expressly states that the Education Secretary has the authority to act in a national emergency  in this case, COVID-19  to make sure borrowers are not left worse off with respect to their loans than they were before the emergency.

In the 8th Circuit case, Biden v. Nebraska, the DOJ argues that the state of Missouri lacks standing to sue based on potential harm the forgiveness program may bring to the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority (MOHELA), a loan servicer in the state, because MOHELA is a separate entity from the state and harm to MOHELA is not harm to the state of Missouri.

Our lawyers and team are confident in the legal authority, Bharat Ramamurti, the deputy director of the National Economic Council, told reporters in an embargoed briefing in January, even after members of the press questioned this confidence considering the Biden administration didnt anticipate Roe v. Wade getting overturned last summer.

The arguments about the plaintiffs lacking legal standing seem strong, [but] the arguments on the merits are somewhat weaker, Mark Kantrowitz, author and student loan expert, told Yahoo Finance. During the hearings we may get a sense as to the direction the Court will take based on the questions asked by the justices.

Republican opponents believe the law is on their side to stop Bidens loan forgiveness. Over 100 Republicans filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court against Bidens loan forgiveness plan.

This exploits the original intention of the HEROES Act of 2003, oversteps the authority of Congress, undermines the will of the American people, and would send the country further into a debt spiral, Representative Jeff Duncan (R-SC) said in the press release. The Court should invalidate the Secretary of Educations sweeping student loan forgiveness program since it trespasses on Congressional authority and violates the separation of powers.

The fact that the lawsuits against forgiveness were filed in October and already made it to the Supreme Court worries some borrower advocates, who also echoed Sen. Warrens concern of politics outweighing the rule of law.

This is an extraordinary nearly unprecedented outcome for lawsuits that were filed just a few months ago, Mike Pierce, a former senior regulator, attorney, and executive director of Student Borrowers Protection Center (SBPC), said at the SDCC town hall. Weve skipped through every step of the normal judicial process  no finding of fact by a trial court  to a rapid and hasty rush to get this policy in front of a conservative Supreme Court.

This is purely political in a way that many of the cases that come before the Supreme Court are not, Pierce said. A reminder that this just isnt about student debt, its a test for democracy and we need democracy to work for the people.

An unfavorable outcome for Biden is ultimately a bigger loss for more than 26 million borrowers who have already applied for cancellation.

In November, the Education Department (ED) stopped taking applications for student loan forgiveness after a Texas federal district court judge ruled the program is a violation of legislative power and the St. Louis-based 8th Circuit Appellate Court imposed an injunction in a separate case.

Shortly after, the Biden Administration asked the U.S. Supreme Court to reinstate the program. Last month, the DOJ filed its brief on behalf of ED with the Supreme Court.

As a result of the litigation, President Biden extended the payment pause on federal student loans until June 30, 2023. If litigation has not been resolved by then, payments will begin 60 days after that.

Advocates say that Biden has other alternatives for student debt cancellation if he loses in the Supreme Court. The administration announced its reform to income-driven repayment (IDR) plans that could help borrowers qualify for loan discharge sooner, but advocates argue more needs to happen with IDR reform.

In the meantime, borrowers should go to Federal Student Aids (FSA) website to make sure their accounts have updated contact information and find out who their loan service provider is, as this may have changed since the beginning of the pandemic.

Ronda is a personal finance senior reporter for Yahoo Finance and attorney with experience in law, insurance, education, and government.

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If there's one thing the royal family has, it's an impeccable sense of style. You can't go wrong with anything Kate Middleton or Meghan Markle leaves the house wearing or carrying. So if you're in the market for a classic tote bag that's built to last, take your cue from the Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Cambridge and grab the Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote, a timeless classic with more than 1,500 perfect reviews at Nordstrom.

Nordstrom Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote The large-sized Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is made of the brand's signature silky, glistening nylon with embossed leather trim. It's more than a foot long, so it has ample storage space, plus a dedicated smartphone pocket inside. The top zips closed, but there's also a snap closure for extra peace of mind. $155 at Nordstrom

Middleton's sported bags by the cult-favorite brand since her school days  in fact, she carried a small, chocolate brown Longchamp tote at her college graduation. And Markle's been a Longchamp lover for as long as she's been on our radar: She was spotted with the smaller version of the Le Pliage tote in khaki at a pre-Emmys event in Los Angeles back in 2005. The royal appeal of Longchamp totes is obvious: They're understated, they're versatile and they look expensive  but their price points are actually pretty reasonable.

The Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is a fashion mainstay, from Kate Middleton to travelers and everyday style enthusiasts around the world. (Photo: Getty/Nordstrom)

Now's the perfect time to pick up the Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote, too. With its water-resistant finish and lining, it's spring shower-ready! Go ahead and get caught in a downpour; this tote keeps all your valuables safe and dry. It figures; you'd never catch the royals with a bag full of soggy belongings!

"C'est magnifique! I love this classic so much I've gotten six of them over the last few years," wrote one classy customer who noted that the tote is perfect for travel. "Knew I was onto something when I counted the number of Longchamp bags on a trip to London in first class, and even more at baggage claim some years ago. I can't go anywhere in NYC subways, streets, or gym without spotting one or more of the large totes.... Some things are universal and this tote is definitely one of the best!"

Kate Middleton carries the Longchamp Pliage tote through Brisbane Airport after the royal tour of Southeast Asia in 2012. (Photo by Newspix via Getty Images)

The casual, elegant staple is also lightweight and foldable, making it the perfect accessory for travel. In fact, you're bound to catch Kate toting her trusty Longchamp whenever she's en route, whether it's through the Brisbane Airport or landing home in London via helicopter.

The iconic statement bag is truly a no-brainer go-to that should be a part of anyone's wardrobe, but there's a very good reason it's such a great travel companion. The Pliage tote bag was actually created 30 years ago by Philippe Cassegrain, the son of Longchamp's founder, after he returned from visiting Japan. The accessories expert created the exact kind of bag he'd want to travel with, and his idea clearly resonated.

In her pre-royal days, Kate carried the Longchamp Pliage tote to an event in London with her mom. It's been her sidekick ever since. (Photo: Getty)

"This bag has made my journeys to work so much more bearable. I travel by train to work and I need to take a lot with me  makeup bag, lunch, wallet, hair products, a sweater, sometimes socks or tights too. This bag fits ALL of it, no problem," wrote a traveling fan. "I have even started using this bag as a carry on for flying, it's so much easier than rolling luggage. It takes up much less space and is a lot less hassle."

Nordstrom Longchamp Large Le Pliage Tote The large-sized Longchamp Le Pliage Tote is made of the brand's signature silky, glistening nylon with embossed leather trim. It's more than a foot long, so it has ample storage space, plus a dedicated smartphone pocket inside. The top zips closed, but there's also a snap closure for extra peace of mind. $155 at Nordstrom

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., right, Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., left, speak during a news conference on legislation labeling the Russian Wagner Group as one of the Foreign Terrorist Organizations, Thursday, Feb. 16, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

BEIJING (AP)  China on Monday accused the U.S. of outright bullying and double standards in leveling what it called illegal sanctions on Chinese companies as part of U.S. actions against Russias Wagner Group and related companies and individuals.

The entities were targeted for their role in the war in Ukraine and mercenary activities, including human rights abuses, in Africa.

The sanctions have no basis in international law or authorization from the Security Council, and are typical illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily briefing.

The punitive measures were seriously harming Chinas interests and China strongly rejects and deplores that and has lodged solemn complaints with the U.S. side, Mao said.

While the U.S. has intensified its efforts to send weapons to one of the parties to the conflict, resulting in an endless war, it has frequently spread false information about Chinas supply of weapons to Russia, taking the opportunity to sanction Chinese companies for no reason," she said. This is outright bullying and double standards."

The Treasury and State departments announced the moves in coordinated statements that targeted dozens of Wagner Group affiliates, including some in the Central African Republic and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the president of Russias Kalashnikov Concern, the original manufacturer of the AK-47 assault rifle.

Wagner, a private Russian military company, has been involved in heavy fighting in the east of Ukraine.

The sanctions also hit the Chinese company Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. Ltd., also known as Spacety China, which has supplied Wagner Group affiliates with satellite imagery of Ukraine that support Wagners military operations there. A Luxembourg-based subsidiary of Spacety China was also targeted.
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) deflected answering a question about whether he still identifies as a Democrat as questions mount over his political future.

I identify as an American, Manchin said when asked if he was still a Democrat on Fox Newss Sunday Morning Futures. Im an American through and through.

Manchin, whose Senate term is up in 2024, has remained noncommittal about his plans to run for reelection as well as whether a White House bid is in his sights.

He has ruled out running for governor in West Virginia, a position he held in the past, and said recently that he was not planning on running for president today. But the proclamations have provided little clarity about his plans in the Senate, where he holds a crucial Democratic seat.

My main concern is how do we bring this country together? Manchin said. How do we make it work? How do we make Democrats, Republicans become Americans again, and not just party affiliates?

Manchins potential reelection bid falls in an election cycle that looks challenging for Senate Democrats. A potential loss of Manchins seat would be paired with challenging elections in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Arizona and Montana, among other opportunities for the party to lose seats.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The coalition successfully ran an initiative in 2018 which restored voting rights to over a million non-violent felons in Florida.

The Florida Rights Restoration Coalition has earned a Nobel Peace Prize nomination for launching a campaign to restore voting rights to felons in the state, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

The coalition successfully ran an initiative in 2018 called Amendment 4 which restored voting rights to an estimated 1.4 million non-violent felons in Florida, theGrio previously reported. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill a year later that prohibited the formerly incarcerated from casting ballots unless all their court-related debts were paid off.

(Photo: AdobeStock.com)

This prompted the FRRC to raise $30 million to help 40,000 people across Florida regain their voting eligibility, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

American Friends Service Committee nominated the FRRC for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition for their work in building democracy, supporting the human right to representation by government, and working towards a better organized and peaceful world, the committee said in a statement.

The FRRC also received a nomination from Quaker Peace and Social Witness. This group, along with American Friends Service Committee, successfully nominated the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. for the Peace Prize in 1964, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

The Nobel Peace Prize is the highest recognition that any individual organization could receive in the world, said Desmond Meade, executive director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition, at a news conference in Orlando on Friday.

Desmond Meade speaks onstage during LIVE FREE USA Turns 10: Creating Safer Neighborhoods Under The Direction Of Pastor Mike McBride at Ciel Creative Space on Nov. 9, 2021, in Berkeley, California. (Photo by Kelly Sullivan/Getty Images)

The Orlando Sentinel reports that Meade battled a cocaine addiction while in the military, which led to drug and firearm charges in 2001. He ultimately turned his life around and earned a law degree. Decades would pass before he voted for the first time in 2019. The state clemency board restored his full civil rights in 2021.

Meades advocacy and civil rights work have earned numerous awards, honors and accolades, including a MacArthur Fellowship genius grant that came with a $625,000 prize. Additionally, his work with the FRRC earned him an appearance on Time magazines Time 100.

Meade said the Nobel Peace Prize nomination highlights the power of second chances, noting at the news conference that even though people like me have made mistakes in the past, theres still an opportunity for us to be contributing members of society, he said.

Neil Volz, the FRRC deputy director, said a lot of grassroots individuals are going to be seen because of this nomination.

In October, Nobel prizes will be announced, including the Peace Prize. Winners reportedly receive about $1 million.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Orlando advocacy group nominated for Nobel Peace Prize appeared first on TheGrio.
Ron DeSantis has taken over the governing structure for Disney World following a political battle between the corporate giant and Floridas Republican governor and conservative state lawmakers over a controversial measure that opponents have derided as the states Dont Say Gay law.

Following weeks of pressure from LGBT+ advocates and Disney employees urging company leadership to publicly lobby against it, then-CEO Bob Chapek announced last year that the company would oppose the bill and suspend its political donations in the state.

The Parental Rights in Education Act prohibits instruction of sexual orientation or gender identity from kindergarten through the third grade and any such discussion that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in other grades.

But the broadly written law could freeze classroom speech involving LGBT+ people and issues, from civil rights history lessons to discussion of LGBT+ students, school staff and their families, which oppoents warn will have a discriminatory and chilling effect on campus speech. Following passage of the Florida law, 38 similar measures have been proposed in 20 states, including 26 measures in 14 states in their current legislative sessions alone.

After Disneys public objection, Governor DeSantis and members of his administration lashed out at the company, igniting a feud that escalated to Republican threats to punish Disneys operations in the state and ultimately resulted in his administration taking control of them.

The feud between Disney and the DeSantis administration and his Republican allies has blown up what has otherwise been a close relationship with one of the states largest employers and government officials from both parties.

The political heavyweight sends several lobbyists to Tallahassee for legislative sessions and spends tens of thousands of dollars through many Disney entities to both Democratic and Republican legislators each election cycle, acccording to campaign finance reports.

Campaign finance records reviewed by The Independent found that Disney entities contributed thousands of dollars to the re-election campaigns of the primary sponsors of the Parental Rights in Education Act, as well as at least $50,000 to the governors 2022 re-election campaign, despite the companys public LGBT+ advocacy.

At an event on 27 February, the governor signed a bill that amounts to a state takeover of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, the governing body around Disney World properties in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista spanning 39 square miles and land across Orange and Osceola counties.

The district, implemented in 1967, allows Disney to effectively control its own land use and zoning rules and operate its own public services, including water, sanitation, emergency services and infrastructure maintenance.

With Disney as the primary landowner for the district, the company is largely responsible for all costs of those municipal services that otherwise would fall under the jurisdiction of county and local governments, including the taxpayers who live within them, an arrangement that essentially eases the burden from neighbouring counties and places it on one of the largest companies in the world. In effect, Disney taxes itself to foot the districts bill for all of its municipal needs.

Today, the corporate kingdom finally comes to an end, the governor said inside a Reedy Creek fire station in Lake Buena Vista on 27 February. Theres a new sheriff in town and accountability will be the order of the day.

Marking a public reversal of his initial reasons behind the takeover, Governor DeSantis said the measure is aimed at what he called a movement within the corporation itself  that said its their job or its their goal to inject a lot of this sexuality into the programming for young kids.

On 19 April 2022, Republican state Rep Randy Fine introduced House Bill 3C, the Independent Special Districts bill. A companion measure, Senate Bill 4C, was introduced in the state Senate.

The governor and his administration insisted that the initial proposal merely intended to block what they called special privileges for big business in the state, though his campaign fundraising messages promoting Reedy Creeks demise pointed to Disneys woke opposition to the so-called Dont Say Gay bill.

Disney thought they ruled Florida, an email from his campaign on 19 April said. They even tried to attack me to advance their woke agenda. Now, parents see Disney for what it is. And now is the time to put the power back in the hands of Floridians and out of the pockets of woke executives.

State lawmakers bristled over the governors initial plans to dissolve Reedy Creek over concerns that doing so would violate state law and burden Florida residents with higher property taxes, effectively forcing them to pay for infrastructure projects like road construction that Disney currently pays for through Reedy Creek.

Instead, the governors own appointees will be in charge of the district and its powers to tax, build and borrow money under a new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.

That board will meet next week, so buckle up, Governor DeSantis said.

There will be no additional tax burden on any Floridian in central Florida or otherwise, the governor pledged on Monday, adding that the new arrangement will reduce the tax burden for people in central Florida.

(AP)

Orlando-area Democratic state Rep Anna Eskamani said in a statement that it is absolutely wild to see a self-proclaimed capitalist like DeSantis celebrate the government takeover of a private board.

All this bill does is rename Reedy Creek and allow Governor DeSantis to appoint hostile conservative cronies to a new board, she said. Disney still maintains the same tax breaks  but their First Amendment rights have been suppressed, and it sends a message to any private individual or company that if you dont purport to what the governor wants, then youll be punished.

Among the governors appointees include a donor who gave the DeSantis campaign $50,000 in 2022 and supported the governors efforts to remove an elected state attorney from office.

The governor also announced that he will appoint the CEO of a right-wing ministry and founder of the right-wing activist group Moms for Liberty that the governor has supported to transform local school boards.

Ms Eskamani and opponents have called on the governor to instead support legislation that would close corporate tax loopholes instead, but this was never about tax policy or corporate accountability, she added.

This was always about DeSantis and his sick agenda to target already marginalized people, and silent dissent.

Jeff Vahle, the president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a statement that the company was ready to work within this new framework, and we will continue to innovate, inspire and bring joy to the millions of guests who come to Florida to visit Walt Disney World each year.
GENEVA (AP)  A top U.S. arms control official on Monday sharply criticized Russia for suspending its participation in the last remaining nuclear weapons treaty, but said Washington will try to work with Moscow to continue its implementation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced last week that the country would suspend participation in the New START treaty which obligated both Russia and the U.S. to commit to regular communications on the status of their nuclear arsenals, allow regular on-site inspections and abide by caps on the number of deployed and non-deployed warheads of each side.

Russia is once again showing the world that it is not a responsible nuclear power, Bonnie Jenkins, the U.S. undersecretary of state for arms control, said at a session of the Conference on Disarmament, a United Nations-affiliated international forum.

Russia is not withdrawing from the treaty, which is in force until 2026, but Putin said Russia cannot accept U.S. inspections of its nuclear sites while Washington and its NATO allies seek Russias defeat in Ukraine. The Russian Foreign Ministry said the country would respect the treatys caps on nuclear weapons and continue notifying the U.S. about test launches of ballistic missiles.

The inspections have been dormant since 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussions on resuming them were supposed to have taken place last November, but Russia abruptly called them off.

Jenkins later told reporters that the U.S. has not fully assessed the consequences of Russia's suspension move, but said we're not seeing any evidence that Russia is in noncompliance.

We remain ready to work assertively with Russia to fully implement the New START treaty, continued implementation of the treaty based on the best interests of both parties, she said.

Putin's announcement of suspending participation came just before the first anniversary of Russia sending troops into Ukraine. Putin has repeatedly cast the conflict as necessary to combat alleged Western aims to weaken Russia and has warned of an increasing threat of nuclear war.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy head of the national security council, said last week that If the U.S. wants Russias defeat, we have the right to defend ourselves with any weapons, including nuclear.

Russia must end this war and must cease its irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, Jenkins said.

French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna also harshly criticized Russia's New START suspension at the Geneva conference as added proof  if any was needed  of the dangerous impasse that Russia is sealing itself into.

-=

Jim Heintz reported from Moscow
For Riley Keough and Ben Smith-Petersen, Daisy Jones & The Six has become a family affair  at least for a scene.

Keough, who portrays the titular character in the show, spoke to Entertainment Tonight at the show's red carpet premiere Feb. 23. During the interview, the 33-year-old actor confirmed that her husband of eight years will be making a brief cameo early on in the show.

I dont want to like spoil it, but the producers thought it would be funny if he was in that scene, the granddaughter of Elvis Presley explained, adding, They were like, Do you want Ben to do this? And I was like, Yeah, thats hilarious.

While she didn't divulge further details about the scene, eagle-eyed fans can look for Smith-Petersen in Episode Two. The first three episodes of "Daisy Jones & The Six" premiere on Prime Video March 3.

Keough and Smith-Petersen tied the knot on two separate occasions. Their first wedding took place in Nepal in an impromptu ceremony. They wed again in California after returning to the United States, celebrating with their friends and family in Napa Valley, California.

At the premiere, Keough spoke with TODAY.com about how she aimed to capture the essence of her character, created by Taylor Jenkins Reid in the book of the same name, explaining, In the book, shes messy and shes unpredictable and shes wild. But I also wanted to figure out who she is underneath all of that.

Daisy Jones & The Six follows a fictional 1970s band, which Reid revealed in a blog post in 2019 is loosely based on the relationship between Steve Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham and its effect on Fleetwood Mac.

In the book, which was published in March 2019, a music producer brings together Daisy Jones (Keough) and a band called The Six, led by Billy Dunne (Sam Clafin).

The rest of the group is made up of keyboardist Karen Sirko (Suki Waterhouse), guitarist Graham Dunne (Will Harrison), bassist Eddie Roundtree (Josh Whitehouse), and drummer Warren Rojas (Sebastian Chacon). Camila Morrone also portrays Camila Dunne, Billys wife.

The band becomes wildly successful fast, but one night in Chicago causes the band to split up just as they hit the peak of their success.

The story of the band is told retrospectively as an oral history, a format replicated in the show, which will chronicle the group's rise and fall documentary-style.

Daisy Jones & The Six will hit Prime Video March 3, with subsequent episodes released each Friday until the series finale March 24.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia released a statement on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the massacres of Armenians in Sumgait, also known as the Sumgait pogrom.

Below is the full statement.

35 years ago, on February 27-29, 1988, amid the encouragement and criminal inaction of the Azerbaijani authorities, the massacres of the Armenians in the city of Sumgait were carried out, resulting in the killing of hundreds of Armenians, including children, women, elderly, while thousands were forcibly displaced.

The pre-planned massacres by the Azerbaijani authorities were carried out in order to brutally suppress the civilised struggle of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh to live with dignity and peacefully in their historical homeland.

This mass crime committed on the grounds of national identity received a wide response and was condemned by the international community, including relevant resolutions adopted by the European Parliament. However, the real organisers and perpetrators of the crime not only werent held accountable but also, encouraged by impunity and indulgence, raised a new wave of Armenophobia and intolerance, carrying out new pogroms and massacres of Armenians in Baku, Kirovabad and other Armenian-populated areas of Azerbaijan.

As a result of these bloody events, hundreds of thousands of Armenians had to leave their homes in haste, leaving behind their possessions and property, and during all these years they never got a chance to exercise their violated rights.

The subsequent events demonstrated that the mentioned crimes of the Azerbaijani authorities were not separate episodes, but vivid examples of state-planned Armenophobia, while their continuous manifestations forced the displacement of tens of thousands of Armenians from the Shahumyan region, Getashen, and as a result of the 44-day war also from Hadrut, Shushi and neighbouring regions.

35 years after the Sumgait massacres, for about 80 days, Azerbaijan has illegally blockaded the Lachin corridor. The purpose of this operation is to displace the remaining 120,000 Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh as well.

Henceforth, Azerbaijan continues its policy of depopulating Nagorno-Karabakh by subjecting the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh to ethnic cleansing. In order to prevent it, targeted condemnation by the international community and the implementation of relevant international mechanisms is imperative.

Even today, ignoring the orders of the reputable international courts, Azerbaijan explicitly continues to destroy, desecrate and vandalise the Armenian historical-cultural monuments and sanctuaries, aiming to erase the Armenian trace in the territories fallen under its control. Simultaneously, the propaganda of hatred towards Armenians continues at the highest level, which aims to prevent the two nations from overcoming the environment of enmity.

Today, paying tribute to the memory of the innocent victims of the pogroms against Armenians in Sumgait and other communities, we emphasise once again that Azerbaijan's Armenophobic rhetoric, maximalist aspirations and aggressive actions in response to efforts of Armenia to build stability and peace in the region, are inadmissible.

At the same time, the Republic of Armenia expresses its commitment to the peace agenda, believing that the establishment of lasting and comprehensive peace and security in the region is an urgent imperative, reads the foreign ministrys statement.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. The UN sent allegation letters to Azerbaijan and Turkey for involving mercenaries in the war unleashed against Artsakh in 2020, ARMENPRESS reports the members of the UN working group on the use of mercenaries, who have arrived in Armenia, said in a press conference.

The group's mandate was formed at the initiative of the UN Human Rights Council. The mandate of the group covers broad areas, including involvement of mercenaries and the use of private military and security companies from the perspective of human rights violations. Within the framework of that mandate, the working group conducts visits to countries, and the visit to Armenia is one of them. The group receives reports of alleged human rights violations from various sources.

"Our group has already received a report in 2020 about the use of mercenaries. And back at that time we had already responded, acted, presented an appropriate message," said group member Jelena Aparac from Croatia.

The group's visit to Armenia has been prepared for a long time with the Armenian authorities.

"At the moment, the information that has reached us mainly concerns the two mercenaries who were taken prisoner, who were charged, a court process was started, hearings were held. We are still collecting information on all that," she said.

The group acts on the basis of information provided to it, which may be provided by NGOs or any other source. Fact-finding is done through a formal process, that is, information is obtained from an official source, and based on that information, they can determine who is responsible for the given incident. Ravindran Daniel, a member of the task force, stressed that they cannot act based on information that is not provided by official sources.

"We have a tool called "allegation letter. We present it to states and non-state structures," said Jelena Aparac.

Referring to the clarifying question whether letters of allegation have been sent to Azerbaijan and Turkey, she gave a positive answer.

The task force noted in its 2020 thematic reports that the use of mercenaries and private security firms is increasing globally. As for the consequences of letters of allegation, unfortunately, the task force's mandate on that matter is quite limited. We can get answers. Those answers are public. And then other concerned parties should use our allegation letters, responses to them and take measures based on them: these can be NGOs, international organizations, other states," said Jelena Aparac.

Ravindran Daniel noted that as a result of their work, problems became more visible, which happened in 2020.

The members of the working group positively assess that Armenia has ratified the UN International Convention "Against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries".

The working group has submitted a request to pay a visit to Azerbaijan, but has not yet received a response.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Today marks the 35th anniversary of the Sumgait pogroms, which have become one of the most tragic and hideous pages in the recent history of the Armenian people. From February 27 to 29, 1988, in the city of Sumgait, located just 40 kilometers from Baku, with the criminal connivance and even at the direction of the Azerbaijani authorities, mass progroms against the Armenian population took place, accompanied by murders, torture and other atrocities, ARMENPRESS was informed from the Foreign Ministry of the Republic of Artsakh. Armed with sharp metal rods, axes, hammers and other improvised means, groups of pogromists, with the complete indifference of the city law enforcement, broke into the apartments of Armenians and retaliated against innocent people with incredible cruelty. During several days of violence, dozens of Armenians were killed, hundreds were brutally beaten and tortured, and thousands were forcibly displaced. The atmosphere of hatred towards Armenians was fueled by anti-Armenian slogans and calls for violence voiced during the rallies. The purpose of these criminal acts, organized by the Azerbaijani authorities, was to create an atmosphere of fear and thereby suppress the peaceful demands of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Sumgait massacre became the first large-scale manifestation of the discriminatory and genocidal policy pursued by Azerbaijan against the Armenian people for decades. This was followed by massacres of Armenians in other cities of Azerbaijan, in particular Baku, Kirovabad, Shamakhi, Shamkhor, Mingechaur and elsewhere, as well as three wars unleashed against Artsakh, which were accompanied by deliberate attacks on civilians, the use of prohibited and indiscriminate weapons and other war crimes.

The pogroms in Sumgait became the basis for the revival of intolerance and hatred against Armenians in Azerbaijan. Armenophobia was elevated to the rank of state policy. The inspirers and perpetrators of this heinous crime became a role model in Azerbaijan, and crimes against Armenians became the norm. Two years later, in January 1990, the Armenian pogroms in Baku were carried out under the slogan Glory to the heroes of Sumgait!. Unfortunately, Azerbaijan was not held accountable either for the pogroms in Sumgait or for subsequent genocidal actions, as a result of which an atmosphere of political permissiveness and impunity was formed for the authorities of this authoritarian state.

The combination of these factors - a sense of impunity and permissiveness, intolerance and hatred towards Armenians, as well as the desire to suppress the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination at any cost - led to the rooting of genocidal intentions against the people of Artsakh in the political consciousness and state policy of Azerbaijan. A clear manifestation of these criminal intentions is the blockade of Artsakh that has been going on for more than two months, and was driven by the desire of the Azerbaijani authorities to force the people of Artsakh to give up their collective rights, deprive them of their homeland and ultimately destroy them.

Even after 35 years, Azerbaijan's policy of oppression, intimidation, gross violations of human rights, the use or threat of force, as well as deportation and ethnic cleansing against the people of Artsakh has not changed. Nevertheless, despite all the difficulties and challenges currently facing the Republic, the people of Artsakh remain firm and determined to defend their rights in their historical homeland and continue the struggle for freedom, independence, democracy and human rights.

We bow to the memory of all innocent victims of Azerbaijan's aggressive and misanthropic policy, and once again call on the international community to take active and effective measures to break the vicious cycle of Azerbaijan's wrongdoings, prevent new crimes against humanity and bring those responsible to justice.
No matter how free young Indians feel, they are deeply tied to their families, especially if the families are traditional.

Within five months, the National Capital Region of Delhi has witnessed the brutal murder of two young women in the hands of the men they lived with. Shraddha Walkar and Nikki Yadav, both in their early 20s, fell in love and cohabited with their male partners. Nikki Yadav, who was murdered more recently, was married to Sahil Gehlot for about three years. Shraddha Walkar and Aaftab Poonawalla lived together for three years.

According to media reports, the fathers of both women have called for the strictest punishment for the young men. While Shraddhas father knew about her relationship and was opposed to it, Nikkis father claims he had no knowledge of his daughters relationship with Sahil, or their marriage. He says he and his wife had a close bond with their daughter and Nikki spoke to her mother every night. Nikki and her younger sister Nidhi shared a flat in Delhi. Nidhi too says she has no knowledge about her sisters marriage with Sahil. Curious.

Beyond the technicalities of the two cases, the reaction of the parents, especially the fathers, is surprising, or not. In Shraddhas case it was at the behest of her friends that he filed an FIR about his missing daughter, as he and his wife had cut off connections with her years ago, disapproving of her relationship with Aaftab. Nikkis father denies his daughters relationship altogether.

Both young women and their partners came from small metropolises, humble homes and were highly aspirational. While Shraddha chose to tell her parents about the relationship, Nikki did not, or the father is not upfront about what he knows. But, if the father is right and that Nikki and her mother were talking every night and were close, would Nikki not tell her about the love life and her married partner? Clearly not. She kept it a secret.

Young people keep secrets from parents, from a sense of privacy, which is good. But also, to avoid conflict, which arises due to disagreements on lifestyles and choices about careers, friendship with the opposite sex and marriage. In both cases of the recent murders, the lives of the young men and women were quite different from their parents, and in sensing disapproval they kept the relationships hidden from their families.

In India, the family, much like the cow, is sacred. No matter how free young Indians feel, they are deeply tied to their families, especially if the families are traditional. From birth they are indoctrinated with the idea that family is everything, and parents know best. Virtues of loyalty and duty to the family elders (immediate and extended) are passed down from one generation to another, whether they are relevant or not. Disobeying elders is met with withdrawal of love and support and this is confusing to children, caught between their dreams and parental expectations.

Young people, especially in small towns and villages, are rarely allowed to freely mix with the opposite sex. When they are ready for higher education or get jobs in cities, they choose to leave their families, opting for a scary yet thrilling world, different from the one back home. But, with inadequate emotional development and little experience in exercising judgment (as most decisions are made for them by their families), its hard for them make choices that will serve them well. Families soon begin to pressure the young people to be married, with people known to them within their community. Sometimes young people have the courage to tell their parents they are involved with other people. Often, they dont and sometimes, like Nikki, they are married already. Either way around, the consequences are dire, often resulting in violence and death.

And there is heartbreak, sadness, regret, guilt and shame. Indian families have not been able to create an environment of equality between generations and sexes. There is more fear than love, more manipulation than negotiation, more secrets than open communication.

And when a parent loses a child in a violent death, they want revenge. They are more focused on the shame that is brought upon the family than the loss of a child. There is little introspection about what they could have done wrong, or what they could have done right.

And the messaging from the community around is thats what happens when you let your daughters go into the cities to study and work. The backlash against the little opportunity women have then shuts down for other young women.

What then does it say about the young men involved with these women? Are they stronger, more powerful than the women? Not quite. They are very much under the influence of their families, are frustrated and have anger issues. Both Sahil and Aaftab confessed to strangling and murdering their partners in a fit of rage, both couples arguing over the issue of marriage.

Young men, like young women, are raised in families where expectations are high -- to take over family businesses, marry appropriate women who produce children and carry on the family name, but above all, stay close and true to the family, and obey the elders.

In 2023 in India, young people are questioning tradition and breaking free of their family expectations. In this process, they will make wrong choices, suffer and there will be regrets.

But thats how learning takes place. Will their parents open their hearts and minds and embrace this call for change?

When will Indian families realise that they are failing their children?
The Archbishop of Yangon - president of the Fabc - presided over the concluding Mass of the continental assembly held in Bangkok in the path desired by Pope Francis worldwide. In the Asian delegates' reflections on synodality, there was also an examination of their own ecclesial structures to be changed in order to fully embrace this path in their own context.

Bangkok (AsiaNews) - The Synodal Assembly of delegates from the Churches of Asia concluded yesterday at the Baan Phu Wan Center in Bangkok with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Card. Charles Bo, archbishop of Yangon and president of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences.

The appointment was the continental stage of the path wanted by Pope Francis on the theme of synodality, which - after two years of listening and discussion in dioceses around the world - will arrive in Rome in October 2023 for the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.

In his homily, Cardinal Bo compared the synodal itinerary to the forty days lived by Jesus in the desert: a "demanding but necessary time because it allows the Church to better witness to the Gospel, through a process of listening, encounter and discernment".

In this attitude of purification, Cardinal Bo emphasised how one of the steps required today is to "let go of everything that prevents us from being a synodal Church", cultivating a "culture of encounter" by welcoming the "transforming power of the Holy Spirit".

He extended an invitation to work in a simple way "as Jesus did", not just observing, but looking; not just feeling, but listening; not just passing by people, but stopping with them; not just regretting poverty, but allowing oneself to be moved by compassion.

"In Asia," he recalled, "we are a minority and we live in the midst of social, political and religious tensions. But it is here that we are called to help our brothers and sisters in need'.

In the last session of proceedings delegates were addressed by it was Card. Jean-Claude Hollerich, Archbishop of Luxembourg and general rapporteur of the synod, who emphasised three points of synodality.

Using the example of musical instruments, Card. Hollerich first explained how each delegate is a unique instrument that must, however, be able to play in tune with the others, to produce a symphony and not a cacophony of sounds. Secondly, he emphasised that synodality requires humility to work and walk together on this journey.

Finally, he recalled that a Church is synodal only if it embraces Christ's mission to proclaim the Gospel and be at the selfless service of all God's people.

The final document - with the amendments suggested by the delegates during the three days of discussion representing the 17 Bishops' Conferences and 2 Synods of Eastern Rite Churches that are members of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences - was then approved and entrusted to the General Secretariat of the Synod.

Together with those from similar Assemblies taking place in other continents in recent weeks, they will form the basis of the Synod's Instrumentum laboris, which will be published by June.

However, the delegates in Bangkok also reflected on how to continue this journey in the specific context of Asia. In particular, they reflected on two questions: what church structures need to be changed or created to improve the synodality of the Church of Asia, and what the delegates would like to see happen at the local level in the year between the two sessions that Pope Francis envisaged for the Synod: the one in October 2023 and the concluding one in October 2024.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The hardest on the Kremlin are the Kazakhs. Turkmenistan most aligned with Moscow's positions. Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan the most guarded. All are on hold, not knowing whether to realign with the old masters, or join the new divisions.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - One year after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a Currentime investigation has sought to shed light on the positions taken on the matter by the former Soviet countries of Central Asia.

None of them actually support Moscow's 'special operation', but neither have they condemned it, maintaining a deliberately emphasised neutrality. The war puts the Central Asian regimes in an awkward position, as they have always been very close to Russia, but they are terrified of being punished in turn by Western sanctions.

The first report after the start of hostilities came from Uzbek President Savkat Mirziyoyev, who spoke to Putin on the phone on 25 February 2022. The press rooms of the two countries reported the conversation in different ways: according to the Kremlin, Uzbekistan had a 'sympathetic' attitude towards the motives of the Russians, while Tashkent emphasised its neutrality towards Russia and Ukraine.

One year later, the position of the Uzbeks officially did not change, with calls to lay down arms, and a refusal to recognise the republics annexed by Moscow in Ukraine.

The Russian press speculated variously on Kyrgyz reactions, when after a phone call from Sadyr Zaparov to Putin, the Ria Novosti agency reported that Biskek somehow supported the action in Ukraine. Zaparov's press secretary had to point out that the Kyrgyz were in favour of a peaceful solution to the conflict. In April, the Kyrgyz president then explicitly spoke of 'war', a term forbidden by the Kremlin.

Moreover, the authorities in Biskek have repeatedly prevented pacifist meetings at the Russian embassy, and have not protested against the forced conscription of many Kyrgyz living in Russia, especially those held in the various camps. Zaparov also indulged in a pro-Putin phrase, stating that 'perhaps it was the only way to defend the peaceful population on the territory of the Donbass'.

The most courageous position was that of Kazakhstan, where the echoes of Russian-Kazakh tensions over the status of the northern territories, which the Russians consider 'their own land' like the eastern regions of Ukraine, can be heard. A week after the invasion, President Kasym-Zomart Tokaev invited Russians and Ukrainians to sit down at the negotiating table.

The territorial integrity of Ukraine was repeatedly defended from Astana, always using the term 'war' and refusing to recognise even the annexation of Crimea, even in a direct confrontation between Tokaev and Putin in St. Petersburg. The latest bone of contention was the 'yurt of unshakeability' in Buca and Kiev, which infuriated the Russians.

From Tajikistan, the first statements, a week after the invasion, came from Foreign Minister Sirodziddin Mukhriddin, wishing a rapid cessation of hostilities. Otherwise, only Dushanbe's opposition to the participation of Tajik citizens in the war, both those living in Russia and Ukraine, was expressed.

Turkmenistan hardly ever officially expresses itself on foreign policy issues, maintaining a line of absolute neutrality on everything, for decades now. However, the local press suggests that Asgabat feels rather on Russia's side, as when Turkmen journalists from Radio Svoboda reported on meetings of government officials accusing the West of provoking the war in Ukraine.

During an OSCE meeting in December, Turkmen representative Khemr Amannazarov blatantly left the room at the beginning of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba's speech, returning after his speech had ended.

Apart from the official positions on the war, what matters most will be the economic effects, from the mass arrival of fugitive Russians, to the sanctions circumvention corridors, and it is now difficult to assess the long-term consequences of these events. Everyone is on hold, not knowing whether to realign with the old masters, or join the new divisions.
by Melani Manel Perera

According to the opposition, the government of President Ranil Wickremesinghe is attempting to postpone the vote to prevent the difference between the executive and popular preferences from emerging. Yesterday, agents used tear gas and water cannons, at least 30 people ended up in hospital.

Colombo (AsiaNews) - Clashes continued overnight in the capital between protesters and the police, who used tear gas and water cannons against militants of the National People's Power (NPP), an opposition coalition calling on the government not to postpone the local elections scheduled for 9 March. More than 30 protesters were hospitalised.

In mid-February, the Election Commission had announced that the postal vote, scheduled for 22 to 24 February, would be postponed until a later date after the Department of Government Printing refused to print ballot papers, saying it had not received the relevant payments.

According to several commentators, this is an attempt by the government to postpone the local elections so that the distance between its administration - which took office after street riots ousted former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa - and the people's preferences does not become apparent.

The leader of the NPP, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has declared that for the sake of the people he will ensure the local vote is held, by hook or by crook. During the protest rally at Lipton Circus, he emphasised that the battle to force the government to hold the local government elections cannot be dismissed with the use of tear gas or water cannons.

A court order issued against 26 leaders including DIssanayake himself, had banned marching to the city centre and entering areas around the Office and Residence of the President and the Ministry of Finance premises from 1pm to 8pm yesterday.

Ignoring the order, the protesters still headed towards Colombo Fort. Hundreds of police and military personnel were deployed to prevent the protesters from reaching the Presidential Secretariat and City Hall.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake led the march and had a heated exchange with the police, who then used tear gas and water cannons in an attempt to disperse the protesters, who however again clashed with the officers.

During the protests, the slogan 'Ranila pissek' (Ranil is a fool) was heard. Eventually, the protesters gathered at Lipton Circus and held a rally, surrounded by police and military.

Some candidates who expect to run in the local elections told AsiaNews that President Wickramasinghe 'has not yet learnt the lesson from the massive popular struggle to oust Gotabaya'.

"The government has the money to deploy so many police and army battalions against our protest, but it does not have the money to import the medicine and food," said a woman candidate with the NPP.

"Even if we accepted him as a leader, what trust can be placed in a head of government who does not allow a real protest of the people?" the activists added from the protest stage.
by Sumon Corraya

Telugu speakers were brought to Dhaka by the British in the 19th century from Andhra Pradesh to work as sanitation workers, which they still do. But in Bangladesh they have always been marginalised. A few days ago, the Dhaka South City Corporation began tearing down their homes and settlement deemed illegal. Two Evangelical churches were also demolished.

Dhaka (AsiaNews)  Over a thousand Telugu Christians from Dholpur, Jatrabari district, find themselves homeless after being evicted by the Dhaka South City Corporation, one of the two municipalities in which the capital of Bangladesh is divided.

The Christians belong to three different denominations: Catholic Church, Golgotha Baptist Church and Jordan Church of Christ.

"Within one day of issuing an oral notice, the Dhaka South City Corporation evicted us from our church and homes. Now we cannot conduct daily and Sunday liturgies. It is very painful for me as a pastor," said Rev Das, 83, pastor of the Golgotha Baptist Church, speaking to AsiaNews.

Between 1836 and 1850, 40 Telugu families were brought by British colonial authorities from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh to Dhaka to work as sanitation workers. Even today, most of them do this kind of work.

Wiping away tears, Rev Das said that this was the third time the Telugu community of Dholpur was removed.

In 1990, the government allocated land here for us but now they are telling us to go. It is totally unjust. Our people earn very little; how will they manage to find another home?

The government brought us here, the clergyman added, and now we are citizens of this country. We have the right to live with dignity. We want the government to give us a place to live in peace.

Living conditions for the Telugu community are inhumane, AsiaNews found. Water, gas and electricity have been cut, and sewage is everywhere.

The Golgotha Baptist Church and Jordan Church of Christ have already been torn down. Some 25 Telugu Catholic families also live in Dholpur, but they do not have their own church, and attend instead a neighbouring parish church in Laxmibazar, about 3 kilometres away.

We live in inhuman conditions, without electricity, cooking gas and drinking water. Children and the elderly are the most affected; how are we going to live?" wonders Niromola Malleti, 51, a mother of two.

The Dhaka South City Corporation began implementing its removal order of illegal buildings on 12 February. Since then, representatives of several human rights groups have visited the victims, calling on the authorities to stop the evictions.

It is an injustice to send you away without offering an alternative place, said Nirmol Rozario, chairman of the Bangladesh Christian Association (BCA), addressing the residents.

We call on Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to take care of the Telugu community, so that it has a chance to live in a dignified manner. The Telugu cannot get houses for rent because they are sanitation workers, Mr Rozario, a Catholic, explained.

On the occasion of the centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman,[*] the Government of Bangladesh provided 70,000 homes to landless and homeless people. But now it is evacuating people from the Telugu community. This is an unacceptable double standard.

Reacting to the criticism, the mayor of South Dhaka promised action.

[*] Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (1920-1975), known as Bangabandhu (Friend of Bengal), is the founding father of Bangladesh.
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The Social Protection, Community and Human Development cluster says it is dealing with social ills in schools, such as bullying, gender-based violence (GBV), child pregnancy, alcohol, and drug peddling. Speaking on behalf of the cluster, Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga reiterated President Cyril Ramaphosa's call on the sec... See more
Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region's coordinated development generates new growth driver

Xinhua) 08:09, February 27, 2023

BEIJING, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- The coordinated development in Beijing and neighboring regions is now in full swing and has grown into a new driving force for China's development, nine years after China launched a key strategy to build the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regional city cluster.

The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region's gross domestic product (GDP) reached 10 trillion yuan (about 1.4 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2022, representing a 1.8-fold increase from 2013 at current prices, according to a report released by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Statistics on Feb. 20.

This aerial photo taken on March 31, 2022 shows the Xiong'an Railway Station in Xiong'an New Area, north China's Hebei Province. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

A more rational industrial layout, the more balanced resource distribution and innovation-driven development have not only helped the crowded Chinese capital achieve healthy growth, but also brought benefits to Tianjin and Hebei.

INDUSTRIAL LAYOUT OPTIMIZATION

Beijing Carale Robot Technology Co., Ltd. was established in the Chinese capital in 2014 and moved its factory and R&D center to the neighboring municipality of Tianjin in 2017, with the business flourishing since then.

"All thanks to the policy support from the Tianjin Binhai-Zhongguancun Science Park," the company's CEO Yin Li said. The park, formally established in November 2016 in the Tianjin Binhai New Area, has now become the city's scientific and technological innovation heartland.

The park has not only inherited the innovative spirit of Zhongguancun, the country's first national high-tech industrial development zone, but can also make full use of Tianjin's strong manufacturing base. It was a big move in linking the industrial layout of the two municipalities.

This aerial photo taken on May 12, 2022 shows the Tianjin Binhai-Zhongguancun Science Park in north China's Tianjin. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

Yin's company could enjoy market information and technical resources of high-level universities in Beijing, and at the same time benefit from the strong policy advantages of Tianjin, which resulted in a reduction of the company's operating costs.

The decision also produced other positive outcomes. In 2022, Carale's sales reached more than 20 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 40 percent.

The same story is unfolding in the Xiong'an New Area, Hebei Province. Located about 100 km southwest of Beijing, the area has been designed as a major recipient of functions previously located in Beijing but which are not essential to its role as China's capital.

Hebei Province has welcomed some 44,000 enterprises transferred from Beijing and Tianjin, according to the provincial development and reform commission. This year, Hebei plans to absorb 30 second and third-tier subsidiaries of central enterprises which are scheduled to settle in Xiong'an.

This aerial photo taken on Sept. 6, 2022 shows a view of Rongdong District in Xiong'an New Area, north China's Hebei Province. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

INNOVATION-DRIVEN DEVELOPMENT

In the Beijing Daxing International Airport Economic Zone, Du Qiuju, a staff member of Beijing AegleStem Therapeutics Co., Ltd. was doing her daily job in the lab -- carefully examining stem cell raw materials.

As a native of Gu'an County, Hebei Province, Du quit her job in her hometown a year ago and chose to embrace a new opportunity in the economic zone, because "it offers a better salary and is conducive to career development."

She doesn't have to worry about commuting distance. She usually rides a motorcycle for 40 minutes to get to the company. In addition, a rail transit line currently under construction, which is located close to her home, will make commuting more convenient in the future.

The Beijing Daxing International Airport sits at the junction of Beijing's Daxing District and Langfang in Hebei Province. The economic zone has a planned area of 150 square km in total and develops industries ranging from international medical care, and airport guarantee and support services, to international convention and exhibition spaces, comprehensive-purpose bonded areas, as well as aviation logistics.

This aerial photo taken on June 25, 2019 shows the terminal building of the Beijing Daxing International Airport in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)

Due to its unique location advantages and rich policy support, more and more high-tech enterprises like AegleStem have settled there, while many talents from Hebei and Tianjin have been attracted there by superior jobs.

"Beijing has significant R&D strength, while Hebei offers relatively low land and labor costs. Enterprises there are very impressed by the complementary advantages of these two regions, which could combine to form synergistic development advantages," said Zhu Tianzhu, assistant director of the economic zone's administrative committee.

According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), in 2021, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region invested a total of 394.91 billion yuan in R&D, 2.1 times that of 2013, accounting for 14.1 percent of the national total.

TOGETHER FOR SHARED FUTURE

Coordinated development has not only boosted economic growth, but also improved people's livelihood in the region.

Beijing Children's Hospital in 2015 started assisting the children's hospital in Baoding City, Hebei Province, providing professional medical workers and technical support.

In the past eight years, more than 8,000 medical experts from Beijing have served at Baoding Children's Hospital. They performed operations there and passed on their experience, and eventually cultivated a large number of local medical professionals and high-level medical departments in Baoding.

This aerial photo shows Beijing Children's Hospital in Baoding City, north China's Hebei Province, Oct. 12, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhu Xudong)

According to Tian Jian, director of Baoding Children's Hospital, the hospital only saw about 250,000 patients a year back in 2015, but now it could see over 600,000 patients a year. "Our hospital is now capable of carrying out major operations. Local patients can enjoy Beijing's high-quality medical resources and medical services on their doorsteps."

Apart from this rational distribution of medical resources, 22 university development alliances have also been established in the region, aiming to balance educational resources and provide equitable opportunities for students.

Transportation development has been a basis for the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. A "one-hour traffic circle" now exists between Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei cities, greatly facilitating residents' work and lives in the three areas.

The region has also enjoyed better air quality and a more sustainable energy mix. In 2021, the average density of PM2.5 -- fine particulate matter that causes smog -- fell 15.6 percent compared to a year earlier. Renewable energy accounted for 8.8 percent of the region's total energy consumption, up 1.9 percentage points from 2020, according to the NBS.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
1953 Ford Popular is based on the Ford Anglia

Photo: YouTube Screenshot/The Late Brake Show

The Ford Pop Came with a wooden floor

Photo: YouTube Screenshot/The Late Brake Show

Well maintained over the years

Photo: YouTube Screenshot/The Late Brake Show

While it seemed like many good things happened during this era, the automotive industry was picking up from a hangover that was World War II ending in 1945.The 103E 1953 Ford Popular was ideally a pre-World War II car sold post-war (based on the E494A Ford Anglia). And like most cars developed during that era, it wasn't the best fit for what we'd describe as the pinnacle of automotive technology.Here's why. Since all resources had been used to fund the war, the Ford Popular was in its most basic state. A few design queues point that out, including the lack of a heater, single wiper blade on the windscreen (vacuum powered), and the conservative use of chrome bits.While the 1953 Ford Pop borrowed a lot from the E494A Ford Anglia , there are visually noticeable differences. The Pop came with smaller headlamps at the front and a single taillight mounted at the center. Also, the bakelite dash popular on the Anglia was swapped out on the interior for a flat steel panel.Consequently, the 1953 Ford Popular was relatively cheap, retailing for about 300 ($317), and at the time, was a lot of people's first car post-war.Under the hood, the 103E Ford Popular packed a 1,172 cc four-cylinder engine good for 30 hp (30 ps).Jonny Smith of the Late Brake Show YouTube channel recently got wind of a neatly preserved 1953 Ford Popular sitting in a garage for the last 40 years. That's not all. The owner of this iconic car, Murray, bought this 70-year-old relic for a measly 15 ($16).Like most classics featured on the YouTube channel, the objective is to pull them out of hibernation and get them running again.While neat on the exterior, Murray's Pop needed some TLC on the interior. As you probably already know, the 1950s, like in the United States, were a period of steel shortage in the United Kingdom. And as a result, the Ford Popular came with a wooden floor.According to the owner, while doing some maintenance on the classic, the wooden floor panels in this car sank to the ground, leaving a hole in its place. In its current form, it'd make the perfect beater for Fred and Wilma Flintstones This 103E Ford Popular has been sitting for 41 years. According to the owner, the last time it ran was in 1982. Therefore, getting it to run wouldn't be a walk in the park.If you've been following our barn find stories, you already know that vehicles sitting for a while often present several challenges. For starters, battery power will be non-existent. Also, there's always a likelihood the gas in the tank is stale, the engine might be seized or stuck, and in some rare cases, the hoses might be rotten.Some of the basic checks getting such a car running include checking for spark and testing to see if the engine would turn over.Fortunately for Jonny, and his crew, Murray manually turned his Ford Pop's engine from time to time to prevent it from getting stuck. He also drained the radiator to avoid corrosion.Sadly, Jonny and his team could not get the classic 103E Ford Popular running on this episode of the Late Brake Show."The problem is, this is a side valve engine which means if we get to the tappet chest, as it is called, to unstick what we think are stuck valves, that is underneath the inlet manifold, the fuel pump down on that side, it's quite inaccessible. And it's not something we can do today," Jonny explained.Murray's Pop had the heart to run, but the engine compression was too low to get it chugging to a point where it'd fire. The only solution at that point was to check the tappet chest.Still, it's pretty phenomenal the amount of care given to this classic despite how long it had been stored in a garage. For a car that's been sitting for four decades, the owner ensured it had new tires. He also turned the engine regularly and changed fluids ( flashed fuel in the tank two months ago) even though he hadn't run it for 41 years.Murray is a true OG post-war car enthusiast. If you love classic cars or currently working on a unit, we recommend catching some of this revival action in the video below. Murray and Jonny spit a lot of classic car facts that could be beneficial for your build.What's the cheapest bargain you've ever got on a car? Murray's was 15 ($16) for a running 1953 Ford Pop. It's arguably the cheapest classic car in Britain.
SUV

Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Acura have gained quite a reputation among car owners. These Japanese automakers are highly regarded by both drivers and technicians. Even though there might be a couple of bad units here and there, the four manufacturers are known and liked for the simple yet sturdy drivetrains they created along the way.Known as Car Wizard, David Long has impressed many Americans with his skills and blatant honesty. One of the things that propelled him to some internet fame was his collaboration with various YouTube stars. Besides this, he also runs a very successful shop in Newton, Kansas, called Omega Auto Clinic. So, now you know that you are in good hands. This recommendation is made by someone who has the necessary expertise to advise buyers who are on the fence about what they should get as their first or next vehicle.Car Wizard decided to share his opinion about this eight-year-oldmade by Toyota and called it a gotta buy, essentially indicating that it earned his seal of approval. Its the 2015 4Runner. The Japanese auto brand has been manufacturing the vehicle for quite some time. Introduced globally in 1984, the SUV is now on its fifth generation and desperately needs a proper upgrade. Fortunately, for the 2024 model year, we will get a new SUV based on the same platform as the all-new Tundra.The mechanic argues this V6-powered Toyota rarely breaks as he inspects a 70,000-mile (112,654-kilometer) 4Runner, which was dropped at his shop for thorough verification. The four-liter power unit puts out 270 hp (274 ps) and 278 lb-ft (377 Nm)of torque, which is enough to move around the 4,805 lb (2,180 kg) SUV with passengers and cargo thanks to its 1,495 lb (678 kg) payload.Car Wizard says this SUV's internals are put together nicely, and there's enough room to do any required work with ease. That means two things  less labor and cheaper repair costs.After putting the vehicle on the lift, the mechanic explains that the most important parts found under the SUV are metal which can increase the life expectancy of the vehicle because stronger materials offer enhanced protection. A thorough look revealed absolutely no issues other than some rusty bits.Despite recommending the 2015 4Runner to anyone who is considering buying a used SUV right now, Long warns everyone to check any vehicle thats being considered for acquisition by taking it to an authorized mechanic.Car Wizards recommendation is incredibly important for one simple reason  you could select a vehicle that appears to be A-OK but hide major issues that can only be discovered through a thorough inspection. Sellers can appear trustworthy, but its always a good idea to not take them for their word and involve a third party that can confirm whats being said about the car.Moreover, buying into this level of reliability is not going to be cheap, so its better to get used to the idea in advance.Finally, dont forget to check the mechanic's list of all-wheel-drive vehicles that are worth buying if the 2015 Toyota 4Runner is not an option.
SUV

Said abnormal deployments happened in vehicles associated with no fewer than six previous recalls. Hyundai recovered an airbag control unit in November 2022 for analysis of the crash pulse parameters. The South Korean automaker eventually discovered that overpressurization of the pretensioner pipe leads to abnormal deployments of the life-saving device thats designed to remove slack from the seat belt in a crash.Hyundai further notes in documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Administration that abnormal deployments are conditioned by the pretensioner load limiter specification, airbag control unit logic, vehicle characteristics, crash duration, and crash severity. The supplier of the suspect pretensioners is Samsong. Not to be confused with Samsung, the Seoul-based outfit describes itself as a life-saving company despite not being able to design a properly working pretensioner.No fewer than 12 part numbers are listed in the document attached below. The recall report further reveals that Hyundai corrected this concern into production as early as August 9th, 2022 when it introduced a vent valve in the pretensioner pipe to address the potential overpressurization. The G80 mid-size luxury sedan was the first to receive the updated component, followed by the GV60 electric, and GV70 and GV80 SUVs.Both dealers and owners will be informed no later than April 17th. Retailers will be instructed to secure the micro gas generator and delivery pipe with a cap to prevent abnormal deployments. A total of 65,517 vehicles produced for the U.S. market will be called back, starting with 940 units of the GV60. The subject population features February 2022 to December 2022 build dates.The GV70 coupe-styled utility vehicle is called back to the tune of 21,917 units built in the period between March 2021 and January 2023. The mid-sized GV80 numbers 32,940 units produced between July 2020 and December 2022. Last but not least, the G80 sedan is listed with 9,720 units from July 2020 to January 2023.$43,150 is the starting price of the combustion-engined GV70, the most affordable model included in this recall. Standard features comprise 18-inch alloys, a 14.5-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, a four-cylinder turbo with a displacement of 2.5 liters, and an eight-speed gearbox.The other models included in this recall are very well equipped right off the bat, although the G80 is RWD as standard given that sedans are traditionally RWD. The G80 retails at $50,000 excluding the manufacturers $1,125 freight charge. As for the GV80 and GV60, the SUV-bodied sibling of the G80 is $55,800 at press time, whereas the Hyundai Ioniq 5s cousin starts at $59,290.
Photo: Bogdan Popa/autoevolution

How to enable the Incognito mode

If youve used the Google Chrome browser, you should be familiar with the Incognito mode concept.In Google Maps, this setting blocks your activity, including the searches and the addresses that you navigate to, from being stored in the Google Account. This means you can navigate without leaving any traces on the mobile device or online.Google explains that once the Incognito mode is enabled, Google Maps wont offer any personalization options or update the Location History. Additionally, if location sharing is enabled, the incognito mode automatically blocks it.Not all Google Maps features are available in the Incognito mode, pretty much because they need access to data about you. For example, the search history is disabled when the feature is enabled, as Google Maps isnt logging any information.Notifications and messages are disabled as well, and so are offline maps and media integration.One important feature that cant be used when the incognito mode is activated is the Google Assistant microphone . You can still use the OK, Google wake-up phrase, but on the other hand, the shared information will still be collected.Many users turn to voice commands specifically to point Google Maps to a specific location. As such, if you dont want destinations to be saved in your account when using the Incognito mode, you should avoid relying on Google Assistant as well.Google has made enabling and disabling the Incognito mode straightforward by adding the feature to the profile picture menu in Google Maps.The Incognito mode is located under the profile picture in the main Google Maps UI. Look for an option called Incognito mode and tap it.The same steps can be used when planning to disable the Incognito mode as well. When the feature is enabled, tap the profile picture and click the same option.These steps can be used on both iPhone and Android.Incognito mode does not come with dedicated settings of Android Auto and CarPlay, so you need to configure everything on the mobile device. This makes sense given the UI on Android Auto and CarPlay is mirrored from the mobile screen.At the end of the day, the Incognito mode comes in handy if you dont want your data to be stored online, but given it disables many features, including the support for offline maps, its a trade-off that many might not agree with. With offline maps, navigating when an Internet connection is not possible.
As far as the pickup truck realm is concerned, North America was not long ago dominated by scale. The Ford F-Series has been for decades not only the top-selling pickup truck but also the best-selling series overall, and it is composed of both the F-150 models as well as the separate Super Duty siblings. And, of course, the Detroit peers are following closely with GMs Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra or Ram trucks  plus their heavy-duty offerings.The only other interest was for mid-size trucks  where the Americans have had to give up the crown to the popular Toyota Tacoma. Alas, not long ago, someone at Ford decided that Hyundais desire to introduce the posh little Santa Cruz compact unibody was perilous  and it needed a measured response. Well, that was a stroke of genius as the affordable and electrified Ford Maverick has swiftly taken the throne and revealed the customers still had a fling with the base segment.The latter had been known for years in South America, meanwhile, where stuff like the Chevy Montana, Fiat Toro, and Renault (Duster) Oroch has thrived and where coupe utilities were more common than larger trucks. Interestingly, some of them  like the latest Montana - are also growing into larger four-door compact pickup trucks. And Chevrolet also has its sights on bigger segments, thanks to the S-10 model. Wait, what?Indeed, the Chevrolet S-10 nameplate  which belongs to a bygone era of North American compact pickup truck love (production took place between 1981 and 2004), has not been sent to the greener pastures of car Valhalla everywhere, only in the United States. Over there, the S-series was succeeded by the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon, but in Brazil production of the second generation continued until 2012. And even after that it still did not retire  GMs South America division just switched manufacturing to the second-gen Chevy Colorado and kept the S-10 badge for continuity.As such, today we have the Colorado for North America and the S-10 for South America, but theyre essentially the same. Or, at least, they were until the third-generation North American Chevy Colorado was introduced last summer for the 2023 model year with a feisty 2.7-liter turbo inline-four shared with the full-size Silverado. Thus, even though some compact unibody pickup truck fans might crave a revival of the nameplate in the United States to fight the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick, this is not it.Instead, Kleber Silva, the Brazil-based virtual artist using the KDesign AG label on social media, has decided to digitally portray the South American 2024 Chevrolet S-10 in High Country trim, and use the North American Chevy Colorado as the virtual base of CGI operations. The design proposal seems quite fit to compose the look of the next-gen Brazilian mid-size truck, right?
ICE

EV

Nissan currently offers two EVs, the Ariya and the Leaf, and some of itsvehicles can also be equipped with a hybrid drivetrain. In 2021, the Japanese automaker announced Nissan Ambition 2030, its long-term mobility vision. The aim is to, as the company says, expand the possibilities of mobility and society by providing experiences that inspire confidence and excitement.But how does this ambition translate into how Nissan will do business? The brand will continue to promote its EVs and e-Power models. Furthermore, it will improve its development and manufacturing processes across the globe, thus accelerating the electrification strategy.As part of Nissan Ambition 2030, Nissan planned to produce 23 electrified vehicles, 15 of which were supposed to be EVs, by 2030. The automaker has updated the numbers. According to the company, 27 electrified models will actually be released by 2030, including 19 new EVs, instead of the initial 15. Moreover, the electrification mix across the Nissan and Infiniti brands by 2030 is projected to rise to 55%, up from the previously forecasted 50%.Nissan has also forecasted its sales mix of electrified vehicles in major markets. By 2026, the company expects an increase from 75% to 98% in Europe and 55% to 58% in Japan (the initial figures are from Nissan Ambition 2030 announcement of November 2021). Its clear that the carmaker will push many of its EVs on the European market , especially since environmental regulations are getting tighter. We can even expect a total ban on the sale of ICE vehicles by 2035, which will serve as a significant accelerator for EVs in Europe.On the other hand, China is a whole different market. To tackle the rapid market changes, Nissan plans to launch anspecifically designed for the market. Nissan also updates its initial forecast of a 40% sales mix to 35% for the Chinese market. The sales mix forecast for the United States remains the same, standing at 40% (EV only, by the fiscal year 2030),Last year, the sales figures for Nissan werent good, as the brand had manufactured and sold fewer vehicles than the previous year. With the Ambition 2030, Nissan has a chance to ride the electrification wave and meet the demands of markets slowly switching to EVs . Of course, not all customers are pro-electrification, so the proper balance must be maintained to maximize sales.
EV

4k Model Y built at Giga Berlin this week ????



Congrats to the Tesla team! pic.twitter.com/VJ0qBPkQ6U  Tesla Europe (@tesla_europe) February 27, 2023

When Elon Musk decided to establish Tesla's most cutting-edge production facility in Germany, he most certainly did it on a whim. There was no objective reason why you would want to produce cars in Europe's most regulated, unionized country, with some of the highest wages in manufacturing. But Musk wanted to make a statement. He wanted to show the German car industry that Tesla was literally at their doorstep.The establishment fought back with all its might. It rallied the environmentalists to protest every single move. It made it so that every step Tesla made was as painfully slow as possible. Instead of the planned production start in 2021, Giga Berlin turned on the production line in March 2022 , almost a year later. And the struggles didn't stop then, as Tesla continued to fight regulators and environmentalists every step of the way.And yet, somehow, on December 15, 2022, nine months after it opened Giga Berlin , Tesla reached a 3,000 units per week peak production. This was an important milestone, meaning the gigafactory could build over 150,000 cars per year. Ten weeks later, Tesla Europe announced another milestone, assembling the 4,000th Tesla Model Y in a week. This represents a 33% production increase in a relatively short time.The new milestone means that Giga Berlin has a run rate of 208,000 Model Y cars per year. We would've thought Giga Texas would be there first, considering they have opened just weeks apart. Tesla had a blank check in Austin, with nowhere near as many hurdles as it had in Gruenheide. Giga Austin should not be far behind, though, and should reach 200,000 cars per year in the coming weeks. With all those gigafactories at speed, Tesla's total production capacity exceeds 2 million units per year.However, clouds are gathering in Tesla's sky, as it has a very imbalanced production. All those gigafactories are mostly assembling the Tesla Model Y and, to some extent, the Model 3. There are signs that the demand for these models is dropping, with inventories building in Europe and China. Shorter delivery times and the recent price cuts also seem to support the impression that Tesla is running out of steam.Tesla must launch new cars into production and refresh its existing lineup to energize sales. We've seen that themaker is working on an updated Model 3 under the Project Highland moniker, and the Model Y should not be far behind. But, just as with the Model S/Model X, the refresh would hardly touch the design and focus on technology instead. This is less of an incentive for Tesla owners to upgrade their cars to a newer model.
SUV

Imparato promised in the ballpark of 1,000 metric horsepower (make that 986 mechanical horsepower) for the long-overdue replacement of the Giulia compact executive sedan, the model that premiered the Giorgio rear-wheel-drive platform shared with the StelvioThe Giorgio went live in 2015, and Stellantis will replace said platform with the STLA Large following Fiat Chryslers merger with Groupe PSA. Developed for D- and E-segment applications, the Giorgio further underpins the Maserati Grecale, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Jeep Grand Cherokee L family-sized utility vehicle.Stellantis couldnt make a case for the Giorgio vehicle architecture in the mid-term future because it cant accommodate hybridized or electric powertrains. With Euro 7 going live in 2025 and CAFE standards getting more draconic with each passing year, this extremely well sorted platform will soon go the way of the dodo.Extremely well sorted platform is not hyperbole. Having driven a few variants of the Giulia and Stelvio, as well as having tracked a manual Giulia Quadrifoglio , yours truly stands by his words. The Giulia and Stelvio may handle superbly, but nevertheless, they fall short pretty much everywhere else versus the German competition.Theyre not as comfortable, not as techy, not as desirable, and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles couldnt even make a case for a touchscreen infotainment system. Even under Stellantis, the facelifted Giulia and Stelvio dont have touchscreen infotainment. Given that W214 E-Class can run TikTok and Angry Birds , there is no excuse whatsoever for not offering a damn touchscreen.On the upside, Alfa Romeo has big plans for the next generation of the Giulia, which is likely to be followed by an electric successor to the Stelvio in 2026. British publication Autocar understands from Imparato that 435 miles (700 kilometers) of all-electric range are possible, with the entry-level specification to boast 345 ponies.Similar to the current generation, the all-electric Giulia is expected with rear-wheel drive for the base specification. The performance-oriented Veloce is reportedly getting 790 horsepower, which is more than what the Porsche Carrera GT and Ferrari Enzo make. The Quadrifoglio will serve as the cream of the crop with the aforementioned 986 horsepower , purportedly split between three electric motors (think Maserati Folgore).The GranTurismo Folgore from the House of the Trident should have packed 1,200-odd horsepower, but alas, the Modenese automaker couldnt deliver on its promise. 818 horsepower in boost mode is the most the GranTurismo Folgore currently makes, a limitation brought by the lithium-ion packs discharge capability.The pouch cells of the GranTurismo Folgore and upcoming GranCabrio Folgore are produced by LG Chem, and the South Korean company is expected to supply Alfa Romeo as well for their electric vehicles.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

EV

The noncompliance recall concerns the operation of the windows and roof. More specifically, a coding error allows the windows and roof to be operated with the digital key removed from the vehicle. This condition increases the risk of injury to both driver and passengers, but on the upside, BMW also equipped affected vehicles with an auto-reversal function that reduces injury risk.Further coding analysis revealed that only U.S. vehicles feature the suspect software, which goes against the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard 118 for power-operated window systems. Dealers have been instructed to update the control unit. The digital key function via Wi-Fi and cellular data will be deactivated until a second software update is ready for rollout. More on that later.Owners of the 3,193 recalled vehicles will be mailed with recall information no later than April 11th, according to a report filed with the. The 8 Series of coupes, convertibles, and four-door sedans opens the list, followed by the Z4 roadster, 2 Series Coupe, and M2.Codenamed F91 for the convertible, F92 for the coupe, and F93 for the sedan, the M8 is joined by the 8 Series convertible (G14), coupe (G15), and sedan (G16). The build dates for affected M8s and 8 Series vehicles range between October 2022 and February 2023. The Alpina B8 xDrive is listed in the attached document as well.Twinned with the Toyota GR Supra, the Z4 is recalled to the tune of 479 units produced for the 2022 and 2023 model year in sDrive30i and M40i specifications. The G42 2 Series Coupe and G87 M2 Coupe feature build dates from August 1st, 2022 to February 13th, 2023. BMW has further issued a delivery stop on the aforementioned vehicles and isnt aware of any incidents related to this concern. A notice sent to U.S. dealers reveals that the software wont be available until July 2023. Thats why the digital key function will be deactivated by dealers despite affected vehicles getting an update for the control unit starting in April 2023.The 8 Series, Z4, and 2 Series Coupe are all based on the CLAR (CLuster ARchitecture), a platform that underpins pretty much every rear-biased BMW in production today. Although its not going to be canned anytime soon because it supports hybrid powertrains, the CLAR will be ultimately discontinued in favor of a dedicatedplatform marketed as the Neue Klasse.Named after the Neue Klasse family of coupes and sedans from the 1960s and 1970s, the new architecture is due to enter series production in 2025 at the Debrecen assembly plant in Hungary. The San Luis Potosi assembly plant in Mexico will follow suit in 2027.
Photo: ESA

As most of you must be aware by now, the Moon is about to get pretty crowded over the next ten years. A group called Northern Sky Research dug up all upcoming missions from around the world and came up with a staggering number: 250 of them target the Moon over the next decade. Thats good news for space companies, as the same group estimates this nascent lunar economy will be worth $105 billion, but bad news for those planning to operate rovers and coordinate missions.Why so? Its pretty simple, really: at the time of writing, theres little in the way of a communication network up there, and even less so in the way of a satellite-based navigation system. And theyre both desperately needed.ESA kickstarted the Moonlight program with the goal of solving those issues, and last year was at the receiving end of ideas and solutions coming from potential partners. That stage ended some months ago, and this week the agency announced it issued an invitation to tender for the work to European and Canadian partners. That means companies now have the chance to submit their offers for supply and services, and no less than 100 of them (unnamed at this point, sadly), seem to be interested.As per the details of the program, the goal is to establish a constellation of tools around our planets natural satellite to aid with communications and navigation. Although when created it will be primarily used by ESA and its partner agencies to conduct their work up there, the network will be open to being shared for commercial purposes as well.What does that mean, in words we can all understand? Just expect Moon exploration efforts to happen from now on in high-definition, as the Moons own comms network would allow not only faster streaming of video, but also a much better image quality.The volume of data sent over by the hardware in place on the Moon will rise as well (at the moment its impossible to say by how much), and so will the speed of transfer for said data. And all of that will undoubtedly help us unlock the mysteries of our closest celestial companion faster.As a side effect, the network could probably make possible direct calls to astronauts on the Moon, "using your roaming data allowance," as per ESA.As for navigation, just imagine what a lunar satellite network will do not only for remotely-controlled or autonomous rovers , but for the humans that will eventually work and live there.ESA does not say when it will decide on this or that idea, but given how it keeps referencing the upcoming Moon missions over the next ten years, well probably have the first lunar comms satellite up and running pretty soon.
According to the Iranian Foreign Ministrys readout of the meeting, Amir-Abdollahian emphasized Tehrans rejection of geopolitical changes in the borders of regional countries.

We have announced this policy openly and also informed different sides, he was quoted as telling Mirzoyan.

Iranian leaders, including President Ebrahim Raisi, have repeatedly made such statements over the past year amid Armenian-Azerbaijani negotiations on restoring transport links between the two South Caucasus states.

Such links are envisaged by the Russian-brokered ceasefire that stopped the 2020 war in Nagorno-Karabakh. The deal specifically commits Yerevan to opening rail and road links between Azerbaijan and its Nakhichevan exclave.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has claimed that it calls for an exterritorial land corridor that would pass through Syunik, the sole Armenian province bordering Iran. Armenian leaders deny this, saying that Azerbaijani citizens and cargo cannot be exempt from Armenian border controls.

Iran is also strongly opposed to the corridor. It has repeatedly warned Azerbaijan against attempting to strip the Islamic Republic of the common border and transport links with Armenia.

The Armenian Foreign Ministry indicated that regional security and stability was high on the agenda of the Geneva talks. It said Mirzoyan briefed Amir-Abdollahian on the latest developments in the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

A statement released by the ministry said the two ministers also discussed Armenian-Iranian economic ties and, in particular, bilateral projects on energy, transport and public infrastructures.

Fortunately, we are moving toward implementing the roadmap of the two countries to expand bilateral relations, Amir-Abdollahian was reported to say.

At the same, he said, Tehran and Yerevan should step up joint efforts to boost bilateral trade in line with recent understandings reached by Raisi and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian.

Armenian government data shows the total volume of Armenian-Iranian trade rising by 41 percent to over $710 million in 2022. Meeting with Pashinian in Tehran last November, Raisi said the two sides want to help increase it to $3 billion in the near future.
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A deal has been struck between the UK and EU to solve issues surrounding the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said the new Windsor Framework has removed any sense of a border in the Irish Sea.

While details of the new arrangements have not yet been revealed, the framework includes a green lane  which means goods going to Northern Ireland from elsewhere wont require checks  and red lane, which is designed for goods likely to be travelling on to the EU.

It will also mean an enhanced availability of UK products in Northern Ireland, such as medicines, while the Prime Minister says it removes any sense of a border in the Irish Sea  one of the main stumbling blocks along the way and concerns among many unionist politicians.

The new deal will also include a Stormont brake  a mechanism allowing an Assembly to halt EU laws impinging on Northern Ireland, in an emergency situation, based on the petition of concern mechanism.

When pulled, the UK Government would also have a veto.

The elected Assembly can pull the brake for changes to EU goods rules that would have significant and lasting effects on everyday lives, Mr Sunak said.

He hailed the deal as a decisive breakthrough.

The UK Parliament will have a vote on the deal in the foreseeable future.

The business community has largely welcomed the deal and the progress made in order to create increased certainty in the marketplace and improve trading relationships.

As a collaboration of 14 industry bodies, we commend the considerable efforts made by the EU and the UK Government to find joint solutions on the Northern Ireland Protocol, the Northern Ireland Business Brexit Working Group said in a statement.

From the outset our priority has been to secure an agreed, durable outcome that protects our consumers and enables our businesses to thrive.

"Reaching an agreement is an important step in securing the stability and certainty businesses have been seeking. While we do not doubt that many issues will have been resolved, others may remain and/or arise in future, so we would encourage the UK and EU to continue with a constructive, solutions-focussed approach as businesses adjust to the new arrangements.

It is our shared aspiration that this agreement will deliver a unique platform that unlocks economic growth and investment, but we will now need time and space to work through the technical detail with our members.

Nichola Mallon, Logistics UKs head of trade and devolved policy, said: Logistics UK has remained at the forefront of discussions surrounding the NI Protocol, regularly meeting with senior political figures and EU representatives.

During these discussions, Logistics UK has consistently reinforced the importance of an agreed, durable outcome between the UK and EU on the NI Protocol in relation to securing the stability and predictability businesses need. Todays announcement that an agreement has been reached is therefore positive news for industry, and Logistics UK will now take time to work through the technical details with members.

Logistics UK is one of the UKs leading business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.

Frankie Devlin, tax partner at KPMG, said: "It will take time to work through the detail, but we welcome the new agreement, which significantly reduces the burden of moving goods into Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK and also retains the benefits under the Protocol of trading with the EU single market. We are hopeful that this will provide the required certainty and stability our businesses need to make investment decisions.

It should also provide a significant platform to attract new overseas investment into Northern Ireland, due to the benefits of our unique dual access to the UK and EU markets.

Speaking after the announcement that the UK and EU have reached an agreement over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Londonderry Chamber president Selina Horshi said: It is positive news that the EU and the UK have reached an agreed deal over the NI Protocol after months of negotiations. This has been a turbulent period for businesses, and clarity and certainty are welcome. While we await the full legal text of the agreement, the efforts of UK and EU officials and ministers must be commended in getting us to this point.

We are hopeful that this new agreement will further smooth trade for local businesses, iron out any of the problems for traders, and bolster our unique market position which guarantees this part of the world access to the European and British markets. However, above all, we are hopeful that this deal now paves the way for the full and speedy return of the Executive and Assembly at Stormont.

Local political decision-making has been stalled for long enough. We hope that this deal means our MLAs who were elected nearly one year ago can get back to work and start delivering progressive legislation and fresh policies for businesses and households across Northern Ireland.

Mark OConnell, of Belfast-based OCO Global, described it as an opportunity to reinvigorate Northern Irelands economy through a substantial Protocol Dividend.

From a business perspective, Northern Irelands unique dual access to the UK and the Single Market should make the region one of the most desirable investment locations in Europe.

To date, uncertainty over the Northern Ireland Protocol, difficulties with its operation and political instability in Stormont has meant that Northern Ireland has not been able to capitalise on this unrivalled opportunity.

Although the fine details are still emerging, the broad thrust of todays deal between the UK and EU on the Protocol makes Northern Ireland an even more attractive location for business. If we can couple these new arrangements with political stability this will be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reinvigorate Northern Irelands economy.

With the right political will, Northern Ireland should benefit from a substantial Protocol Dividend, particularly in sectors such as advanced manufacturing and logistics, and by establishing Belfast as a base for firms European headquarters. The opportunities will also extend to tourism, trade and enterprise.

And FSB NI policy chairman, Alan Lowry, said we commend the great efforts made by the EU and the UK Government to find joint solutions to these challenges.

Our research identified five distinct business cohorts in respect of the Protocol  those for whom it works really well, those who are unaffected, those who are largely unaware because their suppliers deal with the burden, those who are protected by the grace periods, and those who are badly impacted.

All of the issues have been thoroughly highlighted in advance of these latest negotiations, so we are looking forward to seeing the text of the final agreement and exploring with our members how well it addresses the issues they have raised since the Protocol was first introduced.

Retail NI chief executive Glyn Roberts said: On an initial analysis, this new agreement represents welcome progress towards providing the stability and certainty that our retail, wholesale and supplier members are seeking. The technical detail of this agreement will need to be studied further and, following consultation with our membership, we will be able to comment more definitively

In the interim, what is blatantly evident, is that the agreement needs to work, not just for all the businesses in our local supply chain, but also for local consumers.

Ongoing engagement between the business community and the EU and UK Government will be critical as the implementation process of this deal begins. It is imperative that the NI Executive and Assembly is now restored to deal with the huge economic challenges that lie ahead. Northern Ireland needs a working Government.
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 27: (L-R) Courtney Cox and Johnny McDaid attend the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony for Courteney Cox on February 27, 2023 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)   Getty Images

Courteney Cox has become the 2,750th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in the television category.

The Friends and Scream star attended the ceremony in her honour tonight (Tuesday), alongside her Derry-born partner, Johnny McDaid.

The Snow Patrol musician looked proud as punch standing next to his girlfriend of almost a decade in LA on Monday.

Courteney Cox has also responded to one of the many viral stories from Prince Harrys recently-released memoir, Spare.

In the tell-all book, the Duke of Sussex recalled gobbling magic mushrooms at the Friends stars house in 2016.

In a new interview with Variety ahead of her induction to the Walk of Fame, Cox confirmed that the royal stayed at her house but denied passing out psychedelics.

He did stay here for a couple of days  probably two or three, Cox said. Hes a really nice person.

I havent read the book. I do want to hear it, because Ive heard its really entertaining. But yes, its gotten back to me about it, she said of Harrys anecdote.

Im not saying there were mushrooms! I definitely wasnt passing them out.

In Spare, Harry said he was invited to crash at Coxs house through a friend of a friend who initially said the actor was away.

No complaints from me. As a Friends fanatic, the idea of crashing at Monicas was highly appealing, Harry wrote. And amusing. But then Courteney turned up. I was very confused. Was her job cancelled? I didnt think it was my place to ask. More: Does this mean we have to leave?

She smiled. Of course not Harry. Plenty of room, he recalled. Great. But I was still confused because she was Monica. And I was a Chandler. I wondered if Id ever work up the courage to tell her. Was there enough tequila in California to get me that brave?

Harry then recalled meeting the actor Will Arnett at her house, who indulged him in doing the voice from The Lego Batman Movie, in which he stars.

Arnett apparently went to the fridge where Harry and his friend discovered a huge box of black diamond mushroom chocolates.

Somebody behind me said they were for everybody. Help yourself, boys. My mate and I grabbed several, gobbled them, washed them down with tequila.

Harrys memoir was recently spoofed in an episode of South Park in which the prince is promoting a book named Waaaagh.

Harry and Markles representatives denied reports that they were considering a lawsuit against South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone over the episode, calling the speculation nonsense.
Families have been living in tents and shelters like this one since the earthquake

A Northern Ireland woman has opened up about the conditions her Turkish husband is currently living in after a devastating earthquake hit the country over two weeks ago.

Jade Leigh Ozbey and her husband, Huseyin Ozbey have been married for a year.

The couple are currently in a long distance relationship while they wait for Mr Ozbeys UK visa to formally come through.

Mrs Ozbey regularly travels to Turkey to visit her husband and his family in Adyaman.

I go over to visit him often, I was actually meant to be going over soon, but I doubt that will happen now, Mrs Ozbey said.

Mr Ozbey and his family are safe but are currently living in a tent, including his baby nieces, aged just five and seven months.

One of his nieces is also in need of medical assistance but the family are unable to get any medical supplies to the child.

Rescuers search through the rubble in Turkey for survivors

When the earthquake first hit, Mr Ozbey assisted in the search and rescue operation, spending days going through the rubble trying to save those trapped underneath.

I was so scared for him, I kept asking him to stop going into buildings and through the rubble because there were still shakes and I was scared he would get trapped, but he said to me, This is my community and I need to help these people, Mrs Ozbey added.

While contact between the couple is possible, initially Mrs Ozbey had great difficulty getting in touch with her husband.

He didnt have great reception service in the immediate aftermath of the quake, so I was trying to ring him and I couldnt get through. There was one point I couldnt get in contact with him for several hours and I knew there were buildings constantly falling down.

I was so scared that a building would fall down when he was in it.

Families have been living in tents and shelters like this one since the earthquake

The Belfast woman was relieved when she was finally able to contact her husband, but after seeing his living conditions, Mrs Ozbey felt she needed to directly try and help her husband and his family.

I just wanted to go to him, I was looking up flights because I wanted to see him, but my friends said to me, Look, what are you going to do, even if you fly in, you arent going to get to him, if the emergency services and supplies cant get to them how are you going to get to him?

But I still felt I needed to do something for him, she said.

Mrs Ozbey is still shocked by how quickly the earthquake destroyed her husbands home and town.

I was face-timing him the night before, we were just talking normally, his wee niece was blowing me kisses, and now they have lost their home, they have lost everything,

My husband just keeps saying to me, I have my life, thats all I need, I have my life, Mrs Ozbey added.

Her sister, Jaime Fawcett, decided to set up a GoFundMe for her brother-in-law and his family in Turkey.

A lot of my friends were messaging me asking how they could help and saying they wanted to send money, it was Jaimes idea to set up a GoFundMe so my friends could donate. Initially it was just my friends, but now there are a lot of people I dont know donating, everyone has been so generous, Mrs Ozbey said.

The GoFundMe page for her husband and his family has so far raised over 2,000 to help with transport costs and accommodation.

The couple are currently waiting for Mr Ozbeys UK visa, but he will not come to Northern Ireland until his family have settled in Turkey.

We are waiting for the decision on the visa but even if he did get it then he wont come over here right away, he has said to me that he is staying with his family until they get back on their feet, Mrs Ozbey said.

I told him how much we had raised and he couldnt believe it, he kept saying to me, I will pay everyone back, once I can, I will pay it all back, but I told him, No, these people dont want the money back they are trying to help, they want to help.

The conditions they are living in are horrific, can you imagine living in a tent on the side of the road for over a week? Its absolutely awful.

And its the winter in Turkey now. I was there last winter and it was absolutely freezing. They are freezing and they are terrified, they dont even want to take shelter under any buildings in case they fall.

Tragically, Mr Ozbey lost some relatives and friends in the earthquake.

He searched and searched for people in the rubble for the first few days.

He told me there are people they wont ever find because after the first 24 hours, if the body hasnt been identified it just goes into a mass grave, she added. Its just awful, they are all traumatised, especially the wee children.

Its so scary how they can just lose everything overnight.

In order to cope with the worry, Mrs Ozbey is working hard to do anything she can to help her husband and his family.

Jade Leigh Ozbey and her husband Huseyin Ozbey

When I visit them, his family are always so welcoming and kind, they have helped me many times so I want to do anything I can to help them, she said.

They are really struggling, they arent sleeping properly, they are taking it in turns to stay awake. Its his wee mummy who I feel sorry for because she doesnt want to sleep at all. She just wants to look after everyone.

Im so thankful to everyone who donated. The money is going to help with transport and accommodation for my husband and his family. Anything we can do to get them to somewhere they can feel safe and get a decent nights sleep is the most important thing.
PM says Windsor Framework removes any sense of border in Irish Sea, safeguards sovereignty for Northern Ireland, adding people in NI will see the benefits almost immediately

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said his party will "consider very carefully" the terms of the new protocol deal.

"The DUP can take credit for the fact that we even got to this point," he told Sky News.

"We need to consider very carefully the text, the legal text associated with this agreement, the political declaration.

"We will take our time to examine them, to assess what they mean in practice for Northern Ireland and our place within the United Kingdom."

Meanwhile, his partys North Antrim MP, Ian Paisley Jr, has a gut instinct that this will not cut the mustard".

Earlier Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed the deal agreed with the European Union over the NI Protocol as a decisive breakthrough.

In a press conference on Monday afternoon, he said it has removed any sense of a border in the Irish Sea.

He also said Parliament will have a vote on the deal "at the appropriate time", adding: "I think it's important we give everyone the time and the space they need to consider the detail of the framework."

Official documents:

The Windsor Framework: A New Way Forward (Source: UK Government)

The Windsor Framework: Sector Explainer (Source: UK Government)

Read more Sunak scraps Johnsons controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill

Mr Sunak continued: "I believe the Windsor Framework marks a turning point for the people of Northern Ireland.

"It fixes the practical problems they face, it preserves the balance of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement.

"Now of course parties will want to consider the agreement in detail, a process that will need time and care.

It comes after the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen travelled to the UK to put the finishing touches to the agreement.

The political institutions at Stormont collapsed last year as part of the DUP protest against the Northern Ireland Protocol's post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Speaking at Stormont, Ms O'Neill said her party was working through all the detail of the new agreement.

She added: "The fact that both sides have arrived at this point today, that is something that will be well received.

"I was always very clear that the protections that were secured within the protocol were very necessary, they remain necessary. Protecting those things that were working and smoothing out the things that needed to be fixed, that is the position we are standing in this evening.

"All different parties need to sit down at the executive table taking the decisions which impact on people's lives, that is where we should be."

TUV leader Jim Allister has criticised the framework, stating that it will not have the legal effect that the Protocol was given by Section 7A of the EU Withdrawal Act.

"And, I heard nothing of new legislation to give precedence to the framework he added.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has appealed to NIs political leaders to approach this moment in good faith and with a common determination to restore our Assembly and Executive.

DUP should go back to Stormont if they are true unionists, says Farry

Naomi Long, leader of the cross-community Alliance Party, said she would be examining the details.

"We've been very clear from the beginning what our expectations would be, we would want to still maintain dual market access, that's important for businesses in Northern Ireland," she said.

"We also want to see a reduction in the amount of bureaucracy that the protocol creates, particularly for those who are importing goods from GB into Northern Ireland.

"We're also looking for stability because businesses are telling us very clearly that what they want are stable outcomes."

Follow as it happened below:
A 42 year old man has been handed a 10-month sentence after he admitted throwing a petrol bomb at a property in Belfast.

Paul Martin Magennis appeared at Belfast Crown Court where he was sentenced for three offences committed on September 18, 2021.

On that day, he drank around 10 pints of beer before arriving at his friend's Harper Street home.

Two men were in the property and after a short time, a row broke out and Magennis was asked to leave.

Magennis then swung a punch at the male occupant, a fight broke out and Magennis was escorted from the house. During this violent altercation, the male occupant was bitten on the thumb by Magennis.

After Magennis left the property, the occupant heard one of his windows breaking. He then looked outside and saw Magennis trying to light a petrol bomb.

A bottle filled with flammable liquid was then thrown at the house which Judge Paul Ramsey KC branded as "ham-fisted" but with no sectarian element.

After the bottle was thrown at the house, the male occupant then saw a neighbour removing Magennis from the scene.

The defendant, from Montrose Street in Belfast, was later arrested and made no reply when cautioned.

He has since pleaded guilty to throwing a petrol bomb, assaulting the male occupant and occasioning him actual bodily harm and causing criminal damage to a window.

Defence submissions made by barrister Sean Devine indicated the incident has been a "source of deep embarrassment" for Magennis.

Revealing his client is now seeking help for his problems with alcohol, Mr Devine said: "This is his first foray into the Crown Court and it will be his last."

As he sentenced Magennis, Judge Ramsey addressed the joiner and said: "It's clear this was an incident that blew up out of a drunken row between you and this man who you had previously been friends with.

"There is no history of other incidents of violence before or since."

In addition to the 10-month sentence, Judge Ramsey also imposed a two-year restraining order banning Magennis from contacting the male occupant as well as issuing a 500 compensation order.
Sacked schoolteacher Enoch Burke has turned up at his former workplace again this morning, with his ongoing fines for contempt of court now rising to 22,400.

The controversial teacher arrived at Wilsons Hospital School in Multyfarnham, Co Westmeath, at around 8.40am.

He is still in defiance of court orders not to be at the school.

A 700-a-day fine has now been rolling for 32 days, meaning that if he does not discontinue his actions his fines will rise to more than 25,000 by the end of this week.

Enoch Burke: What is the evangelical Christian trying to achieve?

The High Court is expected to review the imposition of the fines tomorrow, with a hearing scheduled before Mr Justice Brian OMoore.

The issue had initially been due to be reviewed on February 10, but this was postponed due to pressure on the courts list.

Mr Justice OMoore said last month that if the daily fine imposed on Mr Burke does not have the desired effect, it can always be increased.

The judge previously ruled out further imprisonment or the sequestration of Mr Burkes assets, the two other options available to the court for dealing with ongoing contempt.

Last week the Irish Independent reported that Burke appears to have sabotaged his chances of winning an appeal against High Court orders after turning up at his former workplace despite being warned by the President of the Court of Appeal that it may not deliver a decision if there was further egregious conduct by him.

Mr Justice George Birmingham warned last Thursday week that it would consider appeals of just two of the four High Court decisions Mr Burke was seeking to challenge, but that a decision on the merits was very much in Mr Burkes hands.

The three-judge court made the decision to limit what it would consider after the dismissed schoolteacher refused to say if he would stay away from Wilsons Hospital School pending the delivery of its ruling.

Mr Burke has continued to go to its premises each school day despite first being suspended and later dismissed from his job there as a teacher of history and German.

He spent 108 days in prison last year for contempt of court orders and is currently being fined for each day he remains in contempt.

His suspension last August came after Mr Burke, an evangelical Christian, refused to comply with a request from the then principal to call a transgender pupil by a new name and by their preferred pronouns.

He was sacked last month but a tribunal will hear an appeal of his dismissal in April.

The teacher is not appealing the order which resulted in his imprisonment.

Instead he is asking the Court of Appeal to set aside a temporary injunction granted by Ms Justice Siobhan Stack last August restraining him from attending for work, and a subsequent decision of Mr Justice Max Barrett last September to keep the injunction in place pending a final hearing of the matter.

These decisions will be considered by the Court of Appeal.

But two other subsequent High Court decisions, made by Mr Justice Conor Dignam and Ms Justice Eileen Roberts, will not.

These include the dismissal of an application brought by Mr Burke aimed at setting aside his suspension.

Outlining his appeal, Mr Burke claimed the orders restraining him from turning up at the school were unlawful, unconstitutional and had no legal effect.

He referred to articles of the Constitution regarding freedom to practice religious beliefs and homage to God.

Mr Justice Birmingham, sitting with Mr Justice John Edwards and Ms Justice Maire Whelan, said last Thursday week the court was unimpressed Mr Burke wont offer any assurance regarding his future conduct.

After rising to consider whether it would hear the appeal at all, the judge said the court would consider his challenge to orders restraining him from turning up at the school but would not consider what he described as positive orders being sought by Mr Burke.

Mr Justice Birmingham also warned that the court may not deliver a decision in the appeal at all if there was further egregious conduct by Mr Burke, a reference to his ongoing contempt of court by going to the school.

Whether there will be a decision on the merits will be very much in Mr Burkes hands, said Mr Justice Birmingham.
An expelled member of the Alliance Party is taking legal action over his unsuccessful attempts to be selected as an election candidate.

Geoffrey Wilson has secured backing from Northern Irelands Equality Commission for a case involving alleged discrimination on the grounds of age and political opinion.

In October last year a Fair Employment Tribunal ruled it did not have jurisdiction to hear his claim.

Mr Wilson, 51, is now set to challenge that determination at the Court of Appeal.

The legal consultant, from the Dunmurry area of Belfast, was a member of Alliance for nine years.

He claims that he was suspended and then expelled in December 2021 over events at a meeting to select candidates for the Lagan Valley constituency.

The steps were taken because of a controversial question put to an Alliance councillor, he has previously alleged.

In April last year Mr Wilson was denied High Court permission to seek a judicial review of his removal from the cross-community party.

But in a separate move he attempted to have a case heard by the Fair Employment Tribunal sitting in Belfast.

Mr Wilson said that between 2017 and 2021 he repeatedly failed to secure approval to stand as an Alliance candidate in local council, Assembly and Westminster elections.

He alleged discrimination because of his age and his emphasis on strong pro-abortion and transgender rights.

The tribunal refused jurisdiction, however, on the grounds that he was never an employee of the party.

Although Mr Wilson previously acted as a self-litigant, the Court of Appeal heard today that he is now being represented by the Equality Commission for a challenge to that decision.

It is understood that the case will focus on whether fair employment legislation provides scope for a political party to also be interpreted as a vocational organisation.

Counsel for the Commission requested more time to refine Mr Wilsons grounds of appeal.

Adjourning the case for three weeks, Lady Chief Justice Dame Siobhan Keegan directed that solicitors representing the Alliance Party should also be notified.
A man recently caged for transporting two kilograms of cocaine has been handed a three-month prison sentence for having drugs in jail.

Appearing at Lisburn Magistrates Court via video-link from prison, Jackie Paul Kirkwood (45) entered guilty pleas to having class B cannabis and class C prescription drugs clonazolam and buprenorphine on April 3 last year. The drugs were concealed in a Kinder egg.

At the time, Kirkwood, from Everogue Lane in Crossgar, was on remand after he was caught red-handed'' with 190,000 worth of cocaine, with a prosecuting lawyer noting he had been granted compassionate bail on March 31 to scatter his sons ashes.

When he returned to prison, it was suspected that he was concealing drugs and he was placed into a dry cell. It was heard that on April 3 staff saw him acting suspiciously at the toilet.

CCTV footage showed him excreting what appeared to be a Kinder egg, said the prosecuting lawyer.

When the yellow, plastic cylindrical container was examined, officers retrieved 58 tablets and a small quantity of cannabis.

Kirkwood claimed that rather than smuggling it into prison, the container had fallen out of a gallon drum of shower gel which he had taken back to his cell.

His plea to possession, rather than smuggling, was accepted on the basis that prison staff shortages meant the shower area may not have been properly searched.

District Judge Austin Kennedy ordered the three-month jail sentence to be served concurrently to Kirkwoods ongoing sentence.

Earlier this month, he was handed sentences totalling four years for drug dealing and driving while banned.

In that case, Belfast Crown Court heard police stopped Kirkwood driving a Yamaha moped on the Beersbridge Road in east Belfast on November 10, 2021. They found almost two kilograms of cocaine in the storage compartment under the seat.

Searches of his home uncovered a number of cutting agents and drugs paraphernalia including benzocaine, weighing scales and dealer bag.

While prosecuting counsel Natalie Pinkerton conceded we can't gainsay that this defendant was any more than a courier couriers play a vital role in crimes of this nature and crimes of this nature can't be completed without couriers.

It was also revealed that Kirkwood had 214 previous convictions, including 95 for road traffic offences.
A key conference at Queens University later this month will focus on challenging sexism in schools  but organisers need more men to get involved.

The event in Belfast is being held by the Feminism in Schools Network to mark International Womens Day

The free event takes place at the university on Saturday, March 11 between 9.30am and 3.30pm and will feature a range of panel discussions and small workshops for all young people and adults who want to develop their skills for challenging sexism in society.

Conference organiser and coordinator of the Feminism in Schools Network, Charlotte Carson, said the main focus of the conference will be challenging sexism, but to do that men must be part of the solution.

The theme of this years conference is challenging sexism, and men must be part of that challenge  some men are a part of the problem, but all men must be part of the solution, she explained.

Thats why we are calling for all men to think about joining us: the men who have years of experience of working with young men and boys and who can share their wisdom with us  and the men who have no experience but would like to get more involved in shaping a generation of young men who are confident, healthy, respectful and safe  and safe for girls to be around.

As well as sessions for adults and young people about consent, healthy relationships, bystander intervention, feminist art activism, period positivity, politics, careers and peacebuilding, there will be specific sessions for those who work with boys and young men to challenge the misogyny pedalled by Andrew Tate and others like him on social media.

A range of well established charities and campaign groups will be joined by Men at Work, an English organisation that trains education and youth work professionals to have positive conversations with boys about misogyny.

The conference will take place less than a month before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, Charlotte added.

Our community remains very much divided. We believe that learning how to challenge one set of prejudices can lead us closer to challenging all prejudices. We see the movement against sexism as a vital part of the wider movement against all prejudice and hatred in our society. That is why we believe that the need to campaign against sexism is an urgent responsibility and schools must lead the way.

The Feminism in Schools Network was set up in 2016 by Charlotte Carson, a citizenship teacher, in response to the election of Donald Trump and the publication of a House of Commons report on widespread sexual harassment of girls in school.

She led three conferences in London between 2017-2019 before returning to live in Belfast. This is the second such conference in Northern Ireland. It is supported by the National Education Union.

The NEU has commissioned research into sexism in schools and last year launched a Teacher Toolkit to help school leaders challenge sexism in their schools.
PSNI detectives have seized Class A drugs and a number of other items as part of an ongoing investigation into suspected criminality linked to the west Belfast UDA .

Officers from the Paramilitary Crime Task Force carried out a search of a property in the Shankill area on Monday evening.

Detective Inspector Corrigan said: A number of items, including a quantity of suspected Class A controlled drugs and a mobile phone were seized and will be taken away for further forensic examination.

Our enquiries remain ongoing following tonights seizure. This is a demonstration of the PCTFs commitment to tackle all types of criminality linked to paramilitaries, in an ongoing effort to rid our communities of the harm these groups cause and of their coercive control.

We would like to thank the local community for their continued support and will continue to act on the information you provide us.

Read more UDA killer, IRA bomb survivor and widow of murdered MP share experience of the Troubles

I would encourage anyone with information about the supply or use of illegal drugs to contact police on 101.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org
EU chief met with monarch after agreeing in principle new NI Protocol deal

Dame Arlene Foster has labelled Ursula von der Leyens meeting with the King crass and said it will go down very badly in NI.

King Charles III had tea with the president of the European Commission at Windsor Castle after her meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and their announcement of a deal over the Northern Ireland Protocol on Monday.

In a social media post, former DUP First Minister Dame Foster said: I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI.

We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.

The European Commission has said the meeting is not part of NI Protocol talks.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so."

After arriving in London earlier, Ms Von Leyen tweeted: Im glad to be in the UK today to meet with Prime Minister @RishiSunak. Im looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend.

Former UKIP leader Nigel Farage also argued against the move, saying that it may alienate unionists. He said the Kings decision to meet unelected Ursula von der Leyen was inherently political.

The unionists like the monarchy, they want to like Prince Charles. This is going to put the most enormous strain on it, he said.

"I think this is absolutely disgraceful of Rishi Sunak to even ask the King to get involved in something that is overtly political in every way. But I wonder whether the King had to accept. I wonder whether the King is taking a very big chance with that section of the electorate, that section of this country, that actually are his biggest supporters.

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Northern Ireland Steve Baker has said the new Northern Ireland Protocol deal  the Windsor Framework  should be enough to satisfy "reasonable unionists".

He told the BBC: "My reading of the text, which I've had the opportunity to do carefully, is that this should be good enough for any reasonable unionists.

"There are unionists who would dig a moat between the North and the South, those unionists will never be happy.

"But I think for reasonable unionists - and the DUP are determined but reasonable unionists - I think this deal will be good enough. And if it's not, I'm really not sure what we're going to do for them."

The Prime Minister hailed the controversially named "Windsor Framework" as marking a "new chapter" on relations with Brussels that he hopes will restore powersharing in Stormont.

But European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol still include a role for the European Court of Justice - a key issue for the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

The pair finalised the long-awaited deal to improve the agreement signed by Boris Johnson more than three years ago after a meeting in Windsor lasting under two hours.

The EU chief went on to have tea with the King at Windsor Castle, despite criticism that the meeting would drag Charles into the politically contentious agreement.
A female student at Central Connecticut State University died after being found unresponsive in an on-campus residence hall, according to a note President Zulma R. Toro sent to the CCSU community Sunday.

This is the kind of heartbreaking news I had hoped I would never have to share during my presidency, Toro wrote. Late this morning, a student living in one of our residence halls was found unresponsive. CCSU police responded to the 911 call and began CPR until New Britain Emergency Services took over and transported her to the hospital. I am so very sorry to tell you that she did not make it.

Toro said an official cause of death is not yet determined and police are investigating the circumstances of the students passing. The student was not named.

We have been in contact with the students family to offer our condolences and support, Toro wrote.

Toro said she and Vice President of Student Affairs Kellie Danso and Chief Operations Officer Sal Cintorino, the Residence Life team, and counseling staff were on campus Sunday.

We are meeting with and providing support to our students roommates, friends, and hall mates, Toro wrote.

The president also said the Counseling and Wellness team was available by phone at (860) 832-1926, and she encouraged our students to reach out to talk to a professional at any time.

Toro said more information would be shared when it is appropriate, and please be safe.
DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson speaks to the media in the Great Hall at Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast PA Photo

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will meet European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor later on Monday when they are expected to sign off on a new agreement on the NI Protocol. But what will be the key points NI politicians will be looking out for in the document which finally emerges?

The current process:

Northern Ireland is inside the EUs single market for goods. That means an open trade border on the island of Ireland but in effect means that a sea border has been created instead. Products arriving into Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK are subject to checks and controls.

Goods are checked at NI ports on arrival from mainland UK

They can then be transported on into the Republic of Ireland once checked in Northern Ireland.

The new plan?

Goods arriving into Northern Ireland are split into two different lanes (green and red)

Good destined for Northern Ireland are sent through a green line and will not be subject to checks as they will be remaining within the UK

Good destined for The Republic of Ireland will go through a red line meaning they will be subjected to checks as they are destined to leave the UK for an EU.

Complications arise when goods arrive to be distributed across the whole of Ireland creating a logistical nightmare.

How green is the green lane?

The UK and EU have agreed that British goods which are staying in Northern Ireland should be subject to fewer checks and controls than products which are going to be moved across the border into the Republic of Ireland.

UK goods which are staying in Northern Ireland would use the green lane at NI ports, meaning they wouldnt have to be checked and would require minimal paperwork. How minimal will be key. Unionists want to see unfettered trade, meaning goods move freely within the UK.

Goods which are due to travel into Ireland would use the red lane meaning they would face customs processes and other checks at NI ports.

It is expected that companies will need to be registered as trusted traders to use the green lane. Companies will want to know what the initial and ongoing requirements are to qualify as a trusted trader.

There is also the question of who will need to be a trusted trader: The GB exporter? The Northern Ireland importer? The haulier carrying the goods? All three?

Support for traders?

A key issue for business is the extent to which the green lane will reduce the need for customs paperwork.

For most businesses in Northern Ireland the physical checking of goods has not been the major impact of the protocol, it has been the added bureaucracy.

They will want the green lane to reduce that to the greatest extent possible.

There is also the question of whether the UK government will continue funding the Trader Support Service which helps with the paperwork.

What about online shopping?

The NI Protocol should have meant that packages being sent from GB suppliers to NI consumers would require a customs declaration but that has never been implemented due to a grace period.

An option for a new deal make that grace period permanent which would see NI treated the same as the rest of the UK.

What about the supply of medicines?

Last year the EU acknowledged that the protocol, as originally agreed, would cause too much disruption to the supply of medicines to NI.

It changed some of its laws in an attempt to guarantee the supply of medicines from GB to Northern Ireland, but there have still been reports of shortages due to the extra paperwork required.

There are still many outstanding issues to sort over how medicine supplies reach NI and how this will be dealt with will be another key issue.

Will all VAT powers return to the UK government?

The protocol means that EU Value Added Tax and excise rules for goods generally apply in NI.

Currently changes to UK VAT rates dont automatically apply to all goods.

Its possible any deal will include the UK reverting to the original pre-Brexit position of handling VAT powers in NI - but unclear as to what goods that will apply to.

The role of EU law?

The EU has been clear that any protocol disputes which involve a matter of EU law should ultimately be settled by the European Court of Justice.

The DUP say no EU laws should apply in NI as they do not apply in the rest of the UK.

The UK wants the ECJ to be put at arms length, with mechanisms to ensure it rarely gets involved.

The DUP stance, once of their hardest red lines, is that no other country in the world would give a say to a foreign administration in making laws which affect the people if the country to which they belong.

As Northern Ireland is not an EU member state it does not have a formal way to influence EU rules. As such they are simply imposed on NI trade, and different to what applies in the rest of the UK.

Stormont politicians and officials could be granted greater consultative input when the EU is drafting laws which will impact Northern Ireland, and has been called the democratic deficit.

The big question...?

Will what finally emerges in any new Protocol deal be enough to sell it to the DUP as workable? if it is, then theres a chance the NI Assembly could be restored.
The twin brother of DUP MP Ian Paisley has said politicians need to form an Executive in Stormont ahead of a potential deal over the NI Protocol.

Rev Kyle Paisley  who is minister at Oulton Broad Free Presbyterian Church in Suffolk  made the comments after sharing a video of the chair of the European Research Group (ERG) chair Mark Francois.

In a social media post on Sunday, he said: I believe they should be in the Assembly and part of the Exec., and arguing their case in B'fast and in London at the same time.

"Why is this so impossible, so unworthy?

He also criticised any involvement with the ERG, a group of backbench Eurosceptic Tory MPs whose members include Jacob Rees-Mogg and Suella Braverman.

Besides, the ERG are doing diddly squat to help local democracy in Northern Ireland. Why be bound up with them? he asked.

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The ERGs Rees-Mogg has said the "devil is in the detail" of any deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol as it appeared Rishi Sunak would fail to win over the Democratic Unionist Party.

The former Cabinet minister told ITV's Good Morning Britain: "There are two things we need to know: one is what the DUP thinks, because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement.

"So, if the DUP doesn't think that it meets test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

"I'm afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say 'we need to see the legal text', they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is."
Inspirational woman sought asylum in Belfast after fleeing persecution

A woman who fled for her life from the Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking to become the first refugee elected as a councillor in Northern Ireland.
The chairman of the Police Federation has said Wednesday nights attempted murder of a senior PSNI officer has shown that Northern Ireland is "nowhere near the type of society where the removal of firearms from police officers should be considered.

Liam Kelly said it was now even more vital that the Chief Constable is given all the equipment necessary to support officers in their work.

In January, a report for the Policing Board raised questions over the criteria for arming all PSNI officers and made a series of recommendations  including one that rejects the expanded use of stun guns, and calls into question the issuing of handguns to all officers.

Unfortunately, as we approach the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, we are still nowhere near a normal society as police officers continue to be targeted for murder by terrorist and criminal gangs, said Mr Kelly, whose organisation represents rank-and-file officers.

Any suggestion to explore removing personal protection weapons from officers would be foolhardy and dangerous. The firearm is effectively the officers last line of defence in volatile and life-threatening situations. It is an essential and necessary item both on and off duty and serves as a deterrent to would-be attackers.

Far from floating the idea to explore the removal of firearms, I would much rather the Northern Ireland Policing Board strenuously advocate and be out front and centre vigorously lobbying Government for the Chief Constable to be allocated the necessary budget and resources to equip and support officers in the work that they do for our society, he added.

All of us must convince ministers of the need to reverse decisions that will see the PSNI budget slashed again and officer numbers cut to a ridiculously low and unsustainable level.

Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell   PA

Read more Police granted extra time to detain 43-year-old suspect in DCI John Caldwell shooting probe

A member of the NI Policing Board has said the attempted murder of detective John Caldwell has shown just how far Northern Ireland is away from creating a society where police officers can walk the streets safely without the need for protective firearms.

UUP Policing Board representative Mike Nesbitt said: I would love to go to my grave with Northern Ireland in a position where police officers could walk the streets without the need for protective firearms.

But we werent anywhere near that position before Wednesday night and were certainly not in that position after it.

What has probably been lost is what the Policing Board were attempting to do with this report.

This was an independent human rights and aspirational look at what would need to happen before police would not need to be protected by personal firearms. It was looking at what sort of society we would need to be living in for this to be considered.

I honestly dont know anyone on the Policing Broad who would advocate PSNI officers not being armed. The report was useful in that it shows us the sort of society we would all strive to be a part of, but there was a long way to go before Wednesday night, and the shooting of DCI John Caldwell showed us again all we are sadly nowhere near there.

The disarming of officers is simply not going to happen as long as the threats persist.

The Policing Board report said in January the disarming of officers should be considered because officers very rarely fire their weapons.

All PSNI officers are currently armed with handguns which they can also carry off-duty.

While firearms are drawn on hundreds of occasions each year, shots have only been discharged five times since 2012.

The board report stated: The reduction in the security threat level and the fact officers very rarely have to fire their firearms raises a question about what the criteria should be for issuing firearms to all officers rather than, as in the rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland, only to those specially trained in their use.
Rishi Sunak has pulled a blinder in striking a new protocol deal with the EU, arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker said.

The Northern Ireland Office minister, who had been on resignation watch, told the BBC that he had been convinced to back the deal thanks to the Stormont brake.

He said: Im really delighted. Im actually hand-on-heart glad to accept the whole thing.

Where theres a compromise its because we need to keep that north-south border free of infrastructure. And so insofar as theres compromise its for that reason.

So Im incredibly proud of this achievement, I think the Prime Ministers really pulled a blinder.

I think its a fantastic achievement for all parties to this deal - for Ireland, for the EU, for the unionists and for Eurosceptics. So Im delighted that we can move on to a new chapter.

Mr Baker has said he wholeheartedly backs the new UK-EU deal because of the Stormont brake, as he warned critics to be reasonable on how laws will be applied to Northern Ireland.

He said: Theres going to be some tests, which is reasonable, because I dont think anyone reasonable would want just some random rejection of laws.

The amount of EU law that will apply in Northern Ireland is now down to the absolute minimum necessary to keep that north-south border free of infrastructure, he said.

The bottom line is, provided its a material impediment to trade in Northern Ireland, the Assembly will be able to say no...

If the Assembly says no, then we will be able to veto the application of that new rule in Northern Ireland. So if sovereignty is the power to say no, which I think it often is, this is a terrific achievement.

Im delighted. As late as yesterday, I still thought I might have to resign, but this is, in the end, the mechanism by which Im sure I can back this wholeheartedly.
Police deal with disorder on Lanark Way in Belfast on November 3, 2021 (Photo by Kevin Scott for Belfast Telegraph)

The UK Government has been told it must start treating threats from loyalist paramilitary groups in the same way as those from dissident republicans.

It comes after the latest chilling warning from senior UVF figures that loyalists will wreck the place and the streets will be in flames if any Brexit deal between the UK and EU does not scrap the Irish Sea border.

With reports suggesting a deal on the NI Protocol between the UK Government and the EU is close to being completed, the threat of violence has turned up the heat on the DUP, with the party now facing a critical decision on whether the contents of the deal, when announced, meets its criteria for a return to the NI Executive.

The warnings from David Campbell (Loyalist Communities Council chairman) should have been heeded, a loyalist source told Sunday Life.

His efforts to keep a lid on things are running out of road.

Loyalists are now being mobilised, and rather than the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement being a celebration, the streets will be in flames.

Loyalists will wreck the place. It is very easy to take the hand off the wheel and just allow the men off the leash.

Alliance MLA Sorcha Eastwood said those who issue threats of violence offer nothing but hatred, bigotry, violence and death, while trying to drag us back to the bad days.

It is past time active loyalist paramilitary groups are treated the same as dissident republican groups are by the UK Government, she said.

Ms Eastwood said in 2023, such groups should not exist, nor other organisations normalising them.

We stand here in a week which had echoes of our dark past, with a senior police officer shot and the New IRA being the primary focus of the enquiry into that horrific attack, she added.

We are in 2023. There is absolutely no excuse for that group, or any loyalist terror groups to exist whatsoever. They offer nothing but hatred, bigotry, violence and death, while trying to drag us back to the bad days.

Now we have the UVF threatening violence around the Protocol. This stands in contrast to previous claims by the Independent Reporting Commission regarding loyalists transitioning away from violence.

Ms Eastwood said the approach of the UK Government towards such organisations needs to change.

The UK Government can no longer continue with its current approach to loyalist paramilitaries  that their activities are simply criminality  and it is past time they treat them the same as they do dissident republicans, she continued.

In addition, organisations such as the Loyalist Communities Council, which normalises the activity of the UVF and others, needs to leave the stage, instead of giving credibility to these terrorist thugs.

The threat of violence has also been condemned by the Ulster Unionist Party.

Leader Doug Beattie called the words from loyalists pathetic, particularly at the end of a week which saw the attempted murder of a senior police officer in Omagh.

In a week when we saw violence visited on a family, community and children these eejits raise their threats of violence, he said.

UUP deputy leader Robbie Butler added: There will never be a time in our future that with the acts of a minority, as visited us this week in Omagh, where we will ever go back to the days of violence, misery, fear and threat. Just stop.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood MP added: Over the last week, our people and our politics has been united in opposition to those who have tried to take us back to the ugliness of violence. Whether it comes from dissident republicans or loyalist crime gangs, we must all stand together to resist those whose only concern is their domination of our communities.

I am confident that the PSNI and the Paramilitary Crime Taskforce will continue to work to dismantle these gangs and diminish their insidious influence on our communities and our political process.
US President Joe Biden has called Rishi Sunaks Brexit deal with the EU an essential step in protecting the Good Friday Agreement.

In a White House statement, the US president praised the efforts of London and Brussels to secure the deal, after Mr Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the Windsor Framework on Monday.

Mr Biden said that the deal was an essential step to ensuring that the hard-earned peace and progress of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement is preserved and strengthened.

He said: I appreciate the efforts of the leaders and officials on all sides who worked tirelessly to find a way forward that protects Northern Irelands place within the UKs internal market as well as the EUs single market, to the benefit of all communities in Northern Ireland.

I am confident the people and businesses of Northern Ireland will be able to take full advantage of the economic opportunities created by this stability and certainty, and the United States stands ready to support the regions vast economic potential.

Mr Bidens backing is a significant boost for Mr Sunak. The US president has long taken a close interest in the peace process in Northern Ireland and has spoken often about his own Irish heritage.

There are hopes that success in resolving the protocol row could see a visit from Mr Biden as part of events marking the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

The Prime Ministers deal removes trade barriers for Northern Ireland and give the UK a veto on EU law, but he is awaiting the approval of the DUP and other unionists.

Northern Ireland can accomplish the extraordinary when its leaders work together in common cause. And I hope  as we all do  that Northern Irelands political institutions are soon back up and running. Those institutions embody the principle of devolved, powersharing, representative government at the core of the Good Friday Agreement, Mr Biden said.

As Northern Ireland prepares to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Agreement in April, let us remember that ending decades of conflict was not easy or inevitable. It required hard work and determination, and an unfailing faith that a better future was possible.

Today, an entire generation of young people has grown up knowing only possibility and growing prosperity  the hard-earned dividend of peace. I am deeply proud of the role the United States has played for decades to help achieve, preserve, and strengthen that peace enshrined in the Agreement.

And I look forward to continuing to work closely with our partners in Northern Ireland, the Governments of the United Kingdom and Ireland, and the European Union, to further that peace and prosperity.

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Emmanuel Macron welcomed the deal between the EU and UK on the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The French president tweeted: The United Kingdom and the European Union have just reached an agreement on implementing the post-Brexit framework in Northern Ireland.

I welcome this important decision, which will preserve the Good Friday Agreement and protect our European internal market.
Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said that the EU had moved a lot to facilitate a deal to improve the Northern Ireland protocol, and that negotiations would be difficult to reopen.

Mr Varadkar stayed quiet on what would happen if the DUP were to reject the Windsor Framework, saying the party should be given time to study the text of what had been agreed.

He said the free flow of goods and people on the island of Ireland had been maintained and the EUs single market had been protected as part of the revised protocol.

What is different is that there will be no restrictions on trade when it comes to goods moving from Britain into Northern Ireland, or goods moving from Northern Ireland to Britain, he said on Monday .

Its a uniquely positive arrangement for Northern Ireland businesses in particular, that trade can flow freely back and forth from Britain to Northern Ireland, without any need for any checks or complications, provided those goods stay in Northern Ireland.

The Fine Gael leader also said that relations between the EU and UK had not been so positive for years, helped by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his team building up trust, and by negotiations being kept confidential.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar was speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)   Niall Carson

The Taoiseach was speaking outside Government Buildings in Dublin as Mr Sunak defended his deal in the House of Commons, including in response to questions from some unionist MPs.

Irelands deputy leader said the EU-UK deal represented a genuine attempt to address key unionist concerns.

Foreign affairs minister Micheal Martin said the new EU-UK deal ensures that Northern Ireland benefits by having unique access to both the EU single market and the UKs internal market.

I heard first-hand the concerns of many unionists, he said in a statement after the Windsor Framework deal.

I believe they will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns.

This new framework will, for example, ensure that the same food will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland as in the rest of the UK.

Medicines will also be available to people in Northern Ireland at the same time and under the same conditions as the rest of the UK.

Mr Varadkar echoed these comments, saying: The European Union has moved a lot, moved a lot to facilitate a new agreement for Britain.

Brexit was a concept on paper before it happened, but the same was the case for the protocol.

Understanding how Brexit and the protocol affected trade movements in reality allowed us to understand better what aspects of it maybe werent necessary, and we were able to take some of those away.

Although he did not comment on whether further negotiations were possible, he said the deal was hard-won, took a huge amount of work on both sides to get to this point and, as always is the case, is something thats very, very hard to reopen.

Political parties in Northern Ireland said they would assess the text underpinning the agreement, in the wake of the announcement by Mr Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The DUP said it would engage with the British Government to seek further clarification, reworking or change as required, while Sinn Fein will meet on Monday to discuss what has been agreed.

Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald listed the Good Friday Agreement, no hardening of the border on the island of Ireland and continued access to the EU market as its priorities.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he would compare the deal against the partys seven tests.

Mr Martin urged a focus on restoring Northern Irelands powersharing institutions, saying it was clear the people of Northern Ireland wanted an Executive to be formed.

I appreciate that some time may be needed to consider the detail of the deal, but I would urge political leaders in Northern Ireland to act quickly, to put in place institutions that can respond directly to the needs of the people of Northern Ireland, he said.

Both Mr Martin and Mr Varadkar signalled that the deal could mark a turning point in the UKs relationship with both the EU and Ireland, which has been strained in recent years.

I cant remember a meeting of a UK prime minister and European Commission president that has gone so well in a very, very long time, long before Brexit, Mr Varadkar said.

So I can see the possibility there for a very good relationship between the UK and the European Union, a real economic and security partnership into the future.
Pupils studying the International Baccalaureate will be allowed to quote work generated by the ChatGPT artificial intelligence system in their essays.

The qualification body will not ban children from using the AI chatbot in their assessments as long as they credit it and do not try to pass it off as their own.

Matt Glanville, head of assessment principles and practice at the International Baccalaureate (IB), told The Times that artificial intelligence software should not be seen as a threat, but should instead be accepted as part of daily life, like spellcheckers, translation software and calculators.

ChatGPT is a form of generative AI which has come to prominence in recent months after a version of it was released to the public last year.

It can respond to questions in a human-like manner and understand the context of follow-up queries much like in human conversations, as well as being able to compose essays if asked  sparking fears it could be used by students to complete assignments.

The IB offers four educational programmes taken by pupils at 120 schools in the UK.

Mr Glanville told The Times: We should not think of this extraordinary new technology as a threat. Like spellcheckers, translation software and calculators, we must accept that it is going to become part of our everyday lives.

ChatGPT has been banned in some schools across the world amid fears that students could use it to cheat, but the IB does not support an outright ban.

Mr Glanville told The Times: The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet.

As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography.

To submit AI-generated work as their own is an act of academic misconduct and would have consequences. But that is not the same as banning its use.

A survey by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, found that 62% of computing teachers said AI-powered chatbots such as ChatGPT would make it harder to mark the work of students fairly.

But the industry body for IT said computing teachers want support to harness its potential rather than banning it.

Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said: ChatGPT potentially creates issues for any form of assessment that relies upon coursework where students have access to the internet.

Allowing students to use this platform as a source with the correct attribution seems a sensible approach and in line with how other sources of information are used.

We would caution, however, that ChatGPT itself acknowledges that some of the information it generates may not be correct and it is therefore important for students to understand the importance of cross-checking and verifying information, as is the case with all sources.

What is important is that students do not pass off pieces of work as their own when this is not the case, and that they use sources critically and well.

Sarah Hannafin, senior policy adviser at school leaders union NAHT, said: The International Baccalaureate seems to be taking a very sensible approach.

We need to respond to technology as it develops, helping children and young people to evaluate the benefits and risks and to understand how to use it appropriately and effectively.
Rishi Sunak is set to meet with Ursula von der Leyen for talks on the Northern Ireland Protocol (Steve Reigate/Daily Express/PA)   Steve Reigate/Daily Express

Rishi Sunak appears to be on the verge of agreeing a Brexit deal aimed at easing trade friction in Northern Ireland as he enters into final talks with the European Union.

The Prime Minister will meet European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor, Berkshire, on Monday to discuss a range of complex challenges around the Northern Ireland Protocol, Downing Street said.

No 10 raised the prospect that the talks could produce a breakthrough moment after months of negotiations with Brussels about fixing the protocol.

The Conservative Party leader, following on from his discussions with the EU chief, is planning to brief his Cabinet before potentially announcing to voters and MPs the details of any agreed deal.

Mr Sunak told the Express.co.uk that should he shake hands with Ms von der Leyen on a pact that works for all, it would show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job.

He added: This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.

But the protocol D-Day comes fraught with risks for the Prime Minister.

If any potential agreement fails to meet the red lines set by the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), it could mean the party continues to abstain from restoring devolved government in Northern Ireland and put him on a collision course with hardline Brexiteers on his own backbenches.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

The Times, however, reported that Cabinet ministers had briefed MPs that they could expect to have their say on at least part of the deal.

The protocol, signed by former prime minister Boris Johnson in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit, with Northern Ireland continuing to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

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But the trade barriers between Northern Ireland and Great Britain created by the treaty has created Unionist tension, with the DUP collapsing powersharing in Stormont last year in protest at its impact.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing, including addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

No 10 officials said Mr Sunak would be entering into the talks with Ms von der Leyen looking to return sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland, Downing Street officials said.

He will speak with the EU leader at lunchtime before holding a virtual Cabinet session from Windsor to brief them on what he has managed to secure.

(PA Graphics)   PA Graphics

Those most closely involved, including Foreign Secretary James Cleverly  who has met regularly in recent weeks with commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic  and Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, are expected to join him in person.

Should London and Brussels sign-off on a protocol revision, Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen will hold a joint press conference.

Mr Sunak plans to travel to Westminster afterwards to give a statement in the House of Commons.

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to Britain on Saturday to hold talks with Mr Sunak, as well as reportedly meet the King at Windsor Castle for tea, but the plans were scrapped.

If an agreement is announced on Monday, it is not known whether Downing Street plans to revisit the idea of the German politician meeting Charles.

No 10 was reportedly keen, had a protocol solution been unveiled on Saturday, to brand it the Windsor Agreement.

The cancelled plans were seized upon by critics, with the Prime Minister accused by DUP MP Sammy Wilson of dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

There has been little detail from No 10 on what is currently on the table in terms of a fresh pact but Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab appeared to hint at what might be in a new deal during interviews on Sunday.

Mr Raab indicated that reports of check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland were correct and that efforts had been made to give Belfast a role in approving new EU laws that would apply to the province.

The Leave campaigner said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a substantial scaling back of the role of the European Court of Justice (ECJ), but he refused to rule out it having a say on future legal cases.

The continued application of Brussels-made laws and the influence of European judges in Northern Ireland after Brexit has irked Tory Eurosceptics and the DUP, putting Mr Sunak at risk of a backbench revolt if he calls a vote on a deal that permits either.

He is likely to win any division but Mr Sunak is keen to avoid needing Labour votes, with the Opposition party supporting a revised deal, to secure victory.

A Government source quoted by The Times said the Prime Minister had obtained far-reaching concessions from the EU.

The newspaper said that Northern Ireland may still have to follow future EU rules but that they would only be imposed after consultation with London and Belfast.
The Manchester Police Department is seeking the publics assistance to identify a suspect who assaulted and robbed a FedEx driver on Thursday evening.

Manchester officers responded to a home on Lydall Street just before 5 p.m. on Thursday for a report of package theft. When police arrived, they located a FedEx driver who said that he was attacked by a man as he approached the home with a package, police said.

The FedEx driver reportedly told police the suspect arrived in a vehicle and got out of the passenger side before approaching him. The FedEx driver said he got into a fight with the unarmed suspect and was punched in the head, according to police.

Witnesses reported that the suspect grabbed the package and ran off on foot, police said.

The FedEx driver described the suspect as a man in his 20s and said the vehicle sped off in the direction that the suspect ran. Police said the vehicle is believed to be a grey Acura sedan with a temporary registration plate.

The FedEx driver sustained minor injuries during the incident, police said.

Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact the Manchester Police Department at 860-645-5500 or the lead investigator, Officer Lindsay Whitehead, at 860-645-5500 ext. 15356.
Rape has effectively been decriminalised under the Conservative Party because of a lack of political will to tackle violence against women and girls, Labour frontbencher Ellie Reeves has said.

In an interview with the PA news agency, Ms Reeves, who is currently serving in Sir Keir Starmers top team in Parliament as shadow justice minister, set out Labours plan to eliminate gender-based violence.

She said she would make tackling violence against women and girls her number one priority if the Labour Party wins the next election.

Labour would introduce specialist rape courts, a domestic violence register, tougher sentencing for rape and legal advocates for rape survivors.

The Lewisham West and Penge MP accused the Government of lacking the political will, as even if ministers say they want to tackle violence against women and girls, their actions tell a bit of a different story.

If you have the political will, you would just get on and do it. And that seems to be lacking.

They are not the party of law and order, Labour is, because we are saying we would actually do these things and get on with doing them, she said.

After pointing to figures published by the Ministry of Justice last year, which revealed the average current wait time between an offence and completion of a criminal rape case was 1,000 days in 2021, Ms Reeves explained how specialist rape courts would help the problem.

She said: Within the courts, you would have judges who are routinely hearing rape cases, so they understand the issues, they have had training in myths and stereotypes about victims.

And a court staff equally that understands the complexity of these cases.

Its a big area for us: setting up those specialist rape courts and getting them in every single Crown Court in the country and getting those rape cases listed and listed quickly.

On the domestic abuse register recently announced by the Government, Ms Reeves said Labour had been calling for it for months.

Asked whether she stands by comments she once made during justice questions in the Commons that the Tories have effectively decriminalised rape, she said: I do stand by the comments and when prosecutions for rape are only one in 100, you have effectively decriminalised rape.

At the time, Conservative former cabinet minister Dame Andrea Leadsom told MPs she was disgusted by the shadow ministers comments, arguing they undermine the confidence of women across this country in our judicial system.

Ms Reeves said: Frankly, its not my words that are deterring women from coming forward, it is this Governments inaction in tackling violence against women and girls thats letting women down and deterring them from coming forward.

For the year to September 2022, Home Office figures show that across England and Wales, rape had the lowest charge rate across all crimes, with just 1.6% of rapes recorded by police leading to prosecution.

Pressed on the figures at justice questions earlier this month, justice minister Edward Argar said the number of people convicted of an adult rape offence went up by 65% over the past year; compared to pre-pandemic levels, convictions are up by 41%.

Ms Reeves also complained about the fact there are no minimum sentences for rapists, adding: What we would do in Government is introduce a minimum sentence of seven years, we think that that would send a really, really clear signal that this sort of behaviour is just absolutely abhorrent and wrong.

Ellie Reeves (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

In relation to legal advocates, Ms Reeves said they would drive up prosecution, drive up standards but also support victims throughout the process, from the moment they report it at a police station right through to trial.

It would cost just shy of 4 million to roll out across the country.

The Labour MP, who is also the younger sister of shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves, said championing the rights of women is something that has always been really important to her.

In my role as an employment rights lawyer before entering Parliament, I represented trade unions and trade union members, but a lot of the work that I did was representing women that face discrimination at work, so sex discrimination, maternity discrimination, those sorts of cases.

She then set up her own legal consultancy, called Working Mums Advisory, with the aim of providing affordable legal advice and advocacy to women.

Mr Argar insisted Labours action on serious crime dont match their empty words.

The justice minister added: They have consistently voted against tougher sentences for rape and failed to properly support victims when they were in power.

This Government has increased sentences, quadrupled funding for victims, increased rape convictions by two thirds last year and just this week announced that we are putting the most dangerous domestic abusers on the sex offenders register.

Only the Conservatives can be trusted to deliver the support and justice that victims of rape deserve.
The ex-husband and former in-laws of Hong Kong model and influencer Abby Choi have appeared in court charged with murder after police found her body parts in a refrigerator.

Alex Kwong, his father Kwong Kau and his brother Anthony Kwong were charged with murdering Ms Choi in the city.

Kwongs mother Jenny Li faces one count of perverting the course of justice. The four were placed in custody without bail.

Police Superintendent Alan Chung speaks to the media (TVB Hong Kong via AP)   Uncredited

Ms Choi, 28, was a model and influencer who shared her glamorous life of photoshoots and fashion shows with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram.

Her last post was more than a week ago, featuring a photoshoot she had done with LOfficiel Monaco, a fashion publication.

Ms Choi had financial disputes involving tens of millions of Hong Kong dollars with her ex-husband and his family, police said earlier, adding that some people were unhappy with how Ms Choi handled her financial assets.

Her friend, Bernard Cheng, said she has four children: two sons aged 10 and three and two daughters aged eight and six. The elder two were with Kwong, 28, while the younger children were with her current husband, Chris Tam.

Mr Tam said he was very thankful to have had Ms Choi in his life and praised her for being supportive, according to his friend Pao Jo-yee in a Facebook post.

Ms Chois ex-husband and former in-laws are accused of killing her (TVB Hong Kong via AP)   Uncredited

When Abby was alive, shes a very kind person and always wanted to help people, he was quoted in the post. I feel anyone who could be her family and friends are blessed.

Ms Pao, who is married to Mr Cheng, told The Associated Press that she has known Ms Choi for over seven years and that she treated people around her well.

She is that type of person that wouldnt have enemies, Ms Pao said.

Mr Cheng said Ms Choi had very good relationships with her family members and would travel with the families of her current and former husbands together.

Ms Chois current father-in-law is a founder of one of the citys famous noodle chains, local newspaper The Standard reported.

She had been missing for several days when police found her dismembered body and documents on Friday, including her legs in a refrigerator, in the house in Lung Mei Tsuen, a suburban part of Hong Kong about a 30-minute drive from the border with mainland China.

Officers officers search a home where they found body parts (TVB Hong Kong via AP)   Uncredited

Her case is one of the most shocking killings Hong Kong has seen since 2013, when a man killed his parents, with their heads were later found in refrigerators.

In another infamous 1999 case, a woman was kidnapped and tortured by three members from an organised crime group before her death.

Her skull was later found stuffed in a Hello Kitty doll.

The gruesome killing of Ms Choi has gripped many in Hong Kong as the southern Chinese city is widely considered safe with a very low level of violent crime.

Across the border in mainland China, online discussion over her case went viral on social media.

On Sunday, authorities discovered a young womans skull believed to be Ms Chois in one of the cooking pots that was seized.

Officials believe that a hole on the right rear of the skull provides a clue as to how she was killed.

The hearing was adjourned to May.
Greta Thunberg, right, joins the campaigners from Nature and Youth and Norwegian Samirs Riksforbund Nuorat who are blocking the entrances to the Ministry of Oil and Energy in Oslo (NTB Scanpix via AP)   Ole Berg-Rusten

Greta Thunberg has joined dozens of activists in blocking the entrance to Norways energy ministry in Oslo to protest against a wind farm they say hinders the rights of the Sami Indigenous people to raise reindeer in Arctic Norway.

The activists, mainly teenagers, lay outside the ministry entrance holding Sami flags and a poster reading: Land Back.

The protesters from Young Friends of The Earth Norway and the Norwegian Sami Associations youth council NSR-Nuorat said the ongoing human rights violations against Sami reindeer herders must come to an end.

Several of the activists donned the Samis traditional bright-coloured dress and put up a tent used by the Arctic people.

In October 2021, Norways supreme court ruled that the construction of the wind turbines violated the rights of the Sami, who have been using the land to raise reindeer for centuries. However, the wind farm is still operating.

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Swedish environmental activist Ms Thunberg, who joined the demo early on Monday, said: It is absurd that the Norwegian government has chosen to ignore the ruling.

Over the weekend, the protesters had occupied the ministrys lobby but were evicted by police early Monday, according to Norwegian broadcaster NRK.

They shifted their protest to chaining themselves outside the main entrance to the ministry, prompting authorities to urge employees to work from home.

By chaining themselves, we make it practically more difficult to move us, activist Ella Marie Htta Isaksen told NRK.

Norways energy minister Terje Aasland told NRK that although the supreme court has ruled that the construction of the wind farm is invalid, the court does not say anything about what should happen to it.

The government must make new decisions that are in line with the premise of the Supreme Courts judgment, Mr Aasland told the broadcaster.

Other activists who were sitting outside the doors of nearby government buildings have been ordered to move and if they dont we will remove them by force, said police spokesman Brian Skotnes shortly before officers were seen carrying activists away.

They were not arrested.

The Sami live in Lapland, which stretches from northern parts of Norway through Sweden and Finland to Russia. They once faced oppression of their culture, including bans on the use of their native tongue.

Today, the nomadic people live mostly modern lifestyles but still tend reindeer.
Russias invasion of Ukraine has triggered the most massive violations of human rights in the world today, the head of the United Nations has said as the war pushed into its second year with no end in sight.

The Russian invasion has unleashed widespread death, destruction and displacement, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres said in a speech to the UN-backed Human Rights Council in Geneva.

After failing to capture the Ukrainian capital in the opening weeks of the invasion and suffering a series of humiliating setbacks in the east and the south during the autumn, Russia has stabilised the front and is concentrating its efforts on a slow push to capture the rest of Ukraines eastern industrial heartland of the Donbas.

Ukraine hopes to use tanks and other new weapons pledged by the West to launch new counter-offensives and reclaim more of the occupied territory.

Mr Guterres said attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure have caused many casualties and terrible suffering.

His remarks came as the Ukrainian military said Russia had launched attacks with exploding drones on several regions that lasted from late Sunday until Monday morning, killing two people.

Mr Guterres cited cases of sexual violence, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention and violations of the rights of prisoners of war documented by the UN human rights office.

He added that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, now 75 years old, has been too often misused and abused.

It is exploited for political gain and it is ignored, often, by the very same people, Mr Guterres said. Some governments chip away at it. Others use a wrecking ball.

This is a moment to stand on the right side of history, he told the council, the UNs top human rights body. Russia withdrew from its seat last year amid a surge in international pressure over the war in Ukraine.

Russian officials have shown little sign of reconsidering their attack on Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday: We arent seeing any conditions for a peaceful settlement now.

Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy head of Russias Security Council, which is chaired by President Vladimir Putin, went a step further, again raising the spectre of nuclear war and a nightmare outcome to Europes biggest and deadliest conflict since the Second World War.

He criticised the US and its allies for providing Ukraine with military and other support to help push back the Kremlins forces. Their longer-term aim, he claimed, is to break up Russia.

They have crazy illusions that after finishing off the Soviet Union without a single shot they could bury todays Russia without any significant problems for themselves simply by disposing thousands of lives in the conflict, he said.

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Its a very dangerous mistake, it wont work like it did with the Soviet Union.

In the latest attacks, Ukraines General Staff said Kyivs forces shot down 11 out of 14 Iranian-made Shahed drones.

Ukraines presidential office said at least two civilians had been killed and nine wounded by Russian attacks over the previous 24 hours.

It said intense fighting has continued around Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Vuhledar in the Donetsk region, which have come under relentless Russian shelling.

Donetsk governor Pavlo Kyrylenko said Russia is using aircraft and heavy artillery there.

In the south, the city of Kherson also came under Russian shelling, killing one and wounding two civilians.

The city of Nikopol, across the Dnieper from the Russia-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, was also struck by the Russian shelling, which damaged residential buildings, power lines and a gas pipeline.

Odesa and the surrounding region suffered a complete blackout on Monday. Authorities gave no reason for it but said that repair crews will start work to restore the energy supply.
The gang is heavily involved in drugs  and police allege they are connected to two murders

The PSNI alleges that Malcolm McKeown was murdered by the Firm.

The crime gang known as The Firm has something different about it, it's a cross-community crew.

Based in the Lurgan and Portadown areas, The Firm includes former members of the Loyalist Volunteer Force as well as people with republican connections.

The gang is heavily involved in drugs  and police allege they are connected to two murders.

Belfast Telegraphs crime correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciaran Dunbar to explain more about the group.
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We hear the phrase history repeats itself so often it has almost become trite. Almost. It still carries powerful significance because its so true!

One of the primary reasons God asks us to keep records (including personal journals) is so we can rememberremember the many times he has blessed us, the kind people who have entered our lives, the good and bad things weve done, the good and bad things our ancestors have done, and more.

Ive personally benefited from the examples and trials of the early Christian saints, who taught us (at least) seven useful lessons.

God always keeps his promises.

Even when we think he must surely have forgotten about us (and with good reason, we might convince ourselves), he never abandons us or acts contrary to his word.

How many times does he have to prove that for us to believe it? And how long must we wander aimlessly trying to find ourselves when our true identity is found in him and his Son. Said C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity: It is when I turn to Christ, when I give myself up to His Personality, that I first begin to have a real personality of my own.

How profound is that? (Read pp. 225-227 of Mere Christianity for the fuller, brilliant message.)

God is involved in every aspect of our lives. He is not a God of the margins, filling in where the world cant satisfy us. He and his son make literally everything richer, fuller, and more worthwhile, no matter how large or small. Our faith brings us closer to them, amplifying and multiplying the miracles  which will continue to increase at the same time Satans kingdom grows more powerful and brazen in its persecution of the believers.

Peace through the Holy Spirit can be constant.

Christ gave a clear promise to his apostles and disciples, recorded in John 14, regarding the Comforter. Through eternal perspective developed and enhanced by prayer, obedience, service, kindness, and searching the scriptures, his peace abides, even when we naturally grieve because of the vicissitudes of life and the malevolence of others.

The fallen nature of this mortal world spawns sharp suffering often made far worse by the selfish and unwise use of our precious agency. But suffering offers opportunities to give and receive service, to learn to love as Christ loved us, to reach upward and partake of healing waters. Jesus voluntarily suffered and endured all things on our behalf, despising the shame of the true king being mocked as a false, impotent imposter. He empathizes perfectly with us. (See Hebrews 12:1-2)

War is truly horrific.

If often brings out the worst in us, even when were not the ones doing the actual fighting. It sometimes humbles us, too, but at what cost? The early saints witnessed the bloody Year of Four Emperors in Rome, the brutal siege of Jerusalem, and the martyrdom of most of the original apostles, and carried on.

Lucifer revels in such physical and spiritual destruction, while the heavens mourn. The best soldiers and military leaders are those who pursue and defend noble objectives with the least amount of death and suffering possible, and who constantly seek the Lords guidance to draw that difficult line. Cornelius, most likely, was such a man, which is another aspect of his life which makes his conversion so interesting.

In fact, as soldiers of the New Covenant, our mission isnt to seek and destroy the enemy, but to seek and save the enemy whenever and wherever we can. That would have been an interesting lesson for a decorated centurion to learn.

When our body dies, our legacy lives on in the lives of all those weve touched, for good or ill.

Christ acknowledges our legacy as well, and will ultimately judge us on it, perfectly, which is both comforting and a little concerning. Some worldly legacies might survive for a timesometimes a considerable amount of timebased on lies, but ultimately, the truth will emerge and lay everything bare.

Christ himself said, For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. (Luke 8:17)

We still dont know when Christ will return.

It might be tempting sometimes to ease up in our efforts to build the kingdom of God, taking solace in the fact the Savior will return soon and that were safely on the right side.

But then theres that fascinating and eye-opening parable of the talents. What happened to the person who hid the talent, ostensibly to keep it safe? Yikes. (See Matthew 25)

We are called to the work, to help the Lord save souls and relieve suffering, and to hasten his coming. It is not time to relax, or to shrink from the very real fight for truth and righteousness.

God governs in the affairs of men.

Benjamin Franklin famously noted that during the U.S. Constitutional Convention almost 235 years ago. He also recognized that God could influence those holding the reins of power in a multitude of ways, sometimes through the good examples of his people, and sometimes through their brave sacrifices.

God often utilizes the perceived weak things of the earth to confound and thrash the mighty and wise ones. The apostle Paul, for example, was a surprising choice for a champion; someone like Barabbas would have been as well (if he chose that path). Said Paul himself: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty. (1 Corinthians 1:27) Lucky for us!

The Lord utilizes the talents of all his saints, men and women, rich and poor, well-educated or not, in amazingly powerful ways. Men and women counseling together and seeking the Spirit drove the fantastic, unimaginable growth of the early Church following Christs resurrection. They were builders and healers, not conquerors or destroyers. They boldly stood for truth and righteousness, though such a stance often put them in grave danger. They werent perfect, but they provided us a powerful example to follow.

Patience is the hallmark and bulwark of Christians.

Gods timing is designed to teach us how to trust.

I saw that phrase used in a meme posted on The Chosens fan page on Facebook, and it rings so true. No wonder I must wait so long sometimes. I dont trust him enough. Though Im trying, I promise.

Youve probably wondered why Abraham and Sarah had to wait so long to have a child, wondered again why God would ask him to sacrifice that miraculously conceived son, the one through whom the great promises made to Abraham were supposed to be fulfilled! God was opening Abrahams mind to comprehend the full scope of his purpose with regard to his children, and Abraham rejoiced in that knowledge.

The more we can come to trust God, the more he can teach us. Our potential is unlimited, and there is no finer teacher anywhere in the universe (which is an incredibly big place).

M.D. House is the author of The Barabbas Legacy, as well as the first two volumes in The Barabbas Trilogy, I Was Called Barabbas and Pillars of Barabbas. He also authored the science-fiction novel, Patriot Star. Before beginning his second career as a writer, he worked for twenty-five years in the world of corporate finance, strategic planning, and business development. Now, Michael lives in Utah with his wife, where he spends his time writing and enjoying his children and grandchildren. Learn more about Michael and his work at www.mdhouselive.com.
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Pastor Jimmy Evans claimed during a sermon that Jesus felt more fear than any human has ever felt. Evans was giving a guest sermon and was preaching about how Christians could deal with their fears and anxiety. As many obstacles life throws our way, it can be pretty common to experience moments of fear and anxiety.



"Jesus had more fear on his way to the cross than any human being has ever experienced... Suppose you've ever been fearful of anything. In that case, Jesus understands it, and He was more fearful than any person has ever been fearful," Pastor Jimmy Evans said during his guest sermon at the Fellowship Church in Texas.



Evans suggested that before Jesus was arrested, He felt endless amounts of fear that made Him sweat blood. The pastor declared the reason for Jesus never speaking of experiencing fear other than this experience was simple, He identified as a fellow human. When you go to Jesus and discuss your feelings, He will tell you He understands because He became a man during his in the world. Jesus experienced fear in order to redeem us from our fear. He also experienced every form of temptation that the ordinary person is tempted with. He held onto His will and did not sin.



Evans reminded congregants that have sinned that they have a "good God" who loves them unconditionally despite any flaws they may have.



"So if you're ever fearful, know that Jesus not only understands it, but He's been there and done that and can help you get through it," Evans said. Evans encouraged congregants to visit their "throne of grace" every time they needed God's help.



He loves us so much that he sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sins, which means that God understands what we're going through, and he's there for us. When you're feeling down, don't forget that God is with you. Evans reminded congregants that Jesus encourages them to come to His throne when they are experiencing "something," as Hebrews 4:16 says.



Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

God was so fearful in his experience because He had "the full knowledge of every single detail of everything He was about to endure. No one has ever been tortured, and no one has ever died the death that Jesus was about to die, and He knew exactly every blow he was gonna receive." Evans said. Christians don't get complete knowledge when it comes to a situation. The fear and anxiety you experience are the Devil's way of stopping you from doing something great.



Even though Christ begged his father not to let him go through it, God refused his request. Jesus ultimately chose to surrender to God's will because it was the only way for man to be saved. John 14:6 says, "If there was any way to heaven, God the Father would not have sent Jesus down the cross." Evans preached that only through Christ is going to heaven possible and that Christians never truly die.



"When you take your last breath here, you take your first breath in heaven immediately after that," Evans said when explaining the beauty of resurrection that Jesus Christ gives to the world.



In the Bible, God tells us not to be afraid. (Luke 12:32, Philippians 4:6-7) We often make decisions out of fear instead of out of faith when we are afraid. We may also miss out on opportunities because we're too afraid to take risks. The Devil uses fear to try to control us and keep us from doing what God wants us to do. However, when we trust God, we can overcome our fears and accomplish great things.



In the end, Pastor Evans encourages people to put their full faith in God, allowing them never to regret a faith-based decision. God always honors faith, but he does not honor fear. Start every day with faith over fear, and you will be in good stead.
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One of the best Christian marriage quotes that captures marriage was by Mignon McLaughlin when he stated, "A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person." Marriage isn't about the big dreams, the house, the cars, the three children, the white picket fence, all neatly packaged with admirable careers to support it all.

In God's Kingdom, a strong and successful marriage is falling in love with the same person as we give that person our all unconditionally. Marriage requires faith in our mighty God and faith in our spouse. It requires waking up every morning and being willing to give 100 percent of our attention, love, and effort, especially when it's hard. Because when we do, God takes our union to His potter's wheel to mold, bend, shape, and refine us into His Holy image, and what a beautiful reflection we become.

Faith in Marriage Quotes

Here are 15 beautiful quotes to strengthen your marriage and relationship with Christ. As you read through these, allow God to move in your heart to permit Him to show you what areas of your union need His strength, healing, and faith. Write them down so that you can easily find these for reference. Or, better yet, add one to a note, a card, or text and send it to your spouse.

"Have a good and godly marriage that shows the world Christ's love through how you sacrificially love and serve one another." John Stange

"Marriage is over in an hour, and yet it takes a lifetime to be really married." E. Stanley Jones, Victorious Living

"No matter how many rules we make for ourselves, rules don't create godly relationships. Only leaning on our faithful Father and longing to please Him with everything we do will set the stage for a beautiful romance!" Eric Ludy

"Staying married, therefore, is not mainly about staying in love. It is about keeping a covenant. "Till death do us part" or "As long as we both shall live" is a sacred covenant promisethe same kind Jesus made with His bride when He died for her." John Piper

"To love means loving the unlovable. To forgive means pardoning the unpardonable. Faith means believing the unbelievable. Hope means hoping when everything seems hopeless." G.K. Chesterton

"The man who sanctifies his wife understands that this is his divinely ordained responsibility Is my wife more like Christ because she is married to me? Or is she like Christ in spite of me? Has she shrunk from His likeness because of me? Do I sanctify her or hold her back? Is she a better woman because she is married to me?" R. Kent Hughes

"Fix your eyes on Jesus and the plans He has for your life. Look ahead, and run after Him with all your heart. Then look around. Whoever has kept up with you, marry that person."Debra Fileta

"Great marriages don't happen by luck or by accident. They are the result of a consistent investment of time, thoughtfulness, forgiveness, affection, prayer, mutual respect, and a rock-solid commitment between a husband and a wife." Dave Willis

"A Christian marriage is [not] one with no problems or even a marriage with fewer problems. (It may well mean more problems.) But it does mean a life in which two people are able to accept each other and love each other in the midst of problems and fears. It means a marriage in which selfish people can accept selfish people without constantly trying to change themand even accept themselves because they realize personally that they have been accepted by Christ." Keith Miller

"We should be able to look at our spouse in the face and say, 'You complete me.' This completeness of husband and wife is why the apostle Paul can say that to love your spouse is to love yourself (Ephesians 5:28). The two really are one, and this means so much more than sentiment. It means they are one flesh."  Steven Wedgeworth

"To solve a marriage problem, you have to talk with each other about it, choosing wisely the time and place. But when accusations and lengthy speeches of defense fill the dialogue, the partners are not talking to each other but past each other. Take care to listen more than you speak. If you still can't agree on a solution, consider asking a third party, without a vested interest, to mediate." R.C. Sproul

"In God, there is no hunger that needs to be filled, only plenteousness that desires to give." C.S. Lewis

God's Blessing Upon Marriage Quotes

"Only when marriage and family exist for God's glory and not to serve as replacement idols are we able to truly love and be loved. Remember, neither your child nor your husband (or wife) should be who you worship, but instead who you worship with." Mark Driscoll

"Lord blesses this beautiful couple with love and hope, we pray. Keep alive forevermore the vows they've pledged today. May you bless their dreams and visions, And keep them always safe. May peace and joy be with them now. On this their wedding day." Wedding Blessing

"May your marriage always bring glory to God, a joy to one another, and blessings to your family for many generations to come. May love and laughter fill your hearts and your home for all at the days of your lives. May you face every challenge hand-in-hand and side-by-side, knowing that you'll conquer all obstacles with God's grace. May the world be forever a better place because the two of you fell in love. In Jesus' name, Amen." Dave Willis

The strength and stability of a building's foundation keep it from collapsing. As any architect knows, there are specific steps a builder must take to form a foundation that will stand the test of time. So it is with marriage. Without a firm foundation, couples are subject to issues that can chip away at their commitment and eventually cause the relationship to crumble. With these quotes, you can build your firm foundation or reaffirm the foundation you already have.
A man walking on Interstate 91 in New Haven was killed when he was hit by three vehicles on Sunday night, according to the Connecticut State Police.

A Honda Pilot driven by a 33-year-old New Haven man was traveling in the right center lane of I-91 South just north of Exit 3 in New Haven around 9:50 p.m. on Sunday when it struck a male pedestrian walking on the highway, state police said. The pedestrian was projected into the left center lane where he then was run over by a Mini Cooper driven by a 26-year-old New Haven man and a Toyota Corolla driven by a 38-year-old New Haven woman, according to police.

The pedestrian, who has yet to be identified, was pronounced dead on the scene, state police said. None of the drivers were injured.

This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information or dashboard camera footage at the time of incident is asked to contact Trooper McCue at Troop I at 203-393-4200 or Daniel.mccue@ct.gov.
Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati speaks at a virtual press conference in this screengrab of a video published on Feb. 24, 2023.

Indonesia has cracked down on tax officials ostentatious displays of wealth after a public outcry over a Jakarta taxmans allegedly disproportionate wealth, which came to light following his high-living sons involvement in an assault case.

Citizens need to trust public servants, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said on Monday, following public anger over tax officials perceived excesses in a country where evasion is rampant and many live in poverty.

Public trust must be built and regained by continuing to work diligently, competently, reliably and honestly, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said in an Instagram post on Monday.

On Sunday, she vowed to strengthen oversight and accountability in the tax directorate.

Indonesia has one of the lowest tax-to-GDP ratios in Southeast Asia, at about 10 percent in 2022. The government has been trying to increase tax revenue by expanding its taxpayer base and improving compliance.

Transparency Internationals annual report last month showed that Indonesia fell 14 spots to rank 110th on the groups 2022 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), which measures perceptions of public sector corruption.

Indonesians disaffection spread on social media following news about the college-going son of the Jakarta tax official, Rafael Alun Trisambodo.

Rafaels son, Dandy Satriyo, who often flaunted luxury cars and motorcycles on social media, was expelled after he allegedly assaulted a high school student last week.

The video in which Dandy, 20, was shown allegedly beating and kicking a 17-year-old into a coma on Feb. 20, circulated widely online.

After widespread public condemnation, the government on Friday removed Rafael from his post  he had amassed 56 billion rupiah (U.S. $3.9 million) in declared assets despite his modest salary, initial scrutiny showed.

Also on Friday, Minister Sri Mulyani condemned the lavish lifestyle displayed by her subordinates, saying it could erode public trust in the tax office. By Sunday, she initiated action to clean up her ministry.

Sri Mulyani asked her director general of taxation, Suryo Utomo, to explain his assets listed in the official wealth declaration and instructed him to disband a luxury motorcycle club of tax officials called Belasting Rijder.

Even if those motorcycles were obtained and purchased with lawful money and official salaries, riding and flaunting them by tax officials and finance ministry staff violates the principles of decency and propriety, Sri Mulyani wrote on her Instagram account @smindrawati on Sunday.

The Indonesian tax office building is seen in Jakarta, April 3, 2018. [Willy Kurniawan/Reuters]

Investigate and disclose

Meanwhile, a movement to stop paying taxes has again gained traction in the country.

At a rally last week, some protesters displayed signs that read Stop paying taxes outside the income tax directorates building. A hashtag with a similar message trended on social media.

Another movement emerged in 2010 after Gayus Tambunan, a low-ranked tax officer, was found to have assets valued at millions of dollars.

The Supreme Court sentenced Gayus to 12 years in prison after he was found guilty of colluding to reduce corporate tax obligations.

Gayus later faced other criminal charges for his misconduct such as giving false testimony, bribing judges, police officers and prison guards, and money laundering. He was sentenced to 29 years in prison.

In December, the Supreme Court sentenced Angin Prayitno, a former tax official, to nine years in prison after he was found guilty of accepting 55 billion rupiah ($3.8 million) in bribes to manipulate tax calculations for several companies.

Fajry Akbar, a researcher at the Center for Indonesia Taxation Analysis, urged the government to make substantive improvements by investigating and disclosing tax employees sources of wealth.

The Finance Ministry, he said, must cooperate with other institutions such as the Corruption Eradication Commission and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center.

It should not be just a public relations exercise, he told BenarNews.

This case is not fully revealed yet. Where did [Rafael] get that much wealth from? It needs to be exposed to the public and it has to be fast.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (left, front) shakes hands with a foreign delegate attending the International Forum on Islamophobia, in Putrajaya, Feb. 27, 2023.

Updated at 5:20 a.m. ET on 2023-02-28

Malaysia has set aside more than U.S. $2 million in the 2023 budget to counter Islamophobia by translating and printing the Quran in several languages and distributing copies internationally.

Of the copies that will be printed under the plan, the first of its kind by the government, 20,000 will be sent to Sweden where a far-right politician recently burned the Muslims holy book on at least two occasions.

The 10 million ringgit ($2.2 million) plan is meant to create a better understanding of Islam, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim told reporters after an event titled International Forum on Islamophobia, which was held in the administrative capital, Putrajaya.

We will print 20,000 in Swedish  and other languages too  for the purpose of better understanding, he told reporters.

Why it has become an issue is because those against Islam never read the holy book. . So, we have to go back to the text or at least the translation to save and enlighten others about the deeper meaning of the religion.

Anwar said the translations, publication and distribution will show wisdom and maturity in the face of unnecessary attacks on Islam.

Swedish-Danish politician Rasmus Paludan publicly burned the Quran in Sweden last month  on Jan. 21 during a protest, and on Jan. 27, in front of the Turkish embassy.

Anwar had condemned the acts, saying there was a need to educate non-Muslims.

Yes we must protest, but it is also important we must give our understanding and do our utmost to ensure the message of the Quran is alive, Anwar had said at a book launch, according to local media.

Joachim Bergstrom, Swedish ambassador to Malaysia, welcomed Anwars announcement.

I am personally delighted that the Al-Quran, this globally important text, will be more accessible in my native country and in Europe, Bergstrom told BenarNews.

I even own several copies. I have spent many years of my life living and working in the Muslim world  including as Swedens special envoy to combat Islamophobia between 2016 and 2021  and I am convinced that knowledge and dialogue are the way to promote understanding and peace.

The Saudi Arabian government has undertaken a similar initiative to Malaysias planned one.

By 2000, the Middle Eastern country had distributed more than 138 million copies of the Quran across several countries, accord to the Heritage Foundation and other sources. More recently, media reported the country distributed 30,000 copies in Kenya in 2022.

Demonstrators gather in front of Swedish Embassy in Kuala Lumpur to protest the burning of the Quran in Sweden, Jan. 27, 2023. [S. Mahfuz/BenarNews]

Waste of resources

Not everyone in the Muslim-majority country is keen on the plan.

One Twitter user said the effort would help only those who receive the printing and distribution contracts.

Dont let the action of one moron in Sweden cost us 10 million [ringgit], that wont be of any help to this country, Layla, who uses one name, tweeted.

Zhu, who also uses one name, questioned the need to print the Quran.

You can read online for free with translation in numerous languages. This money should have gone into health care, Zhu tweeted.

A third Twitter user also questioned Anwars decision.

What a waste of resources! That money could feed 2 million needy on the Rahmah menu (government cheap meal initiative), Joyce Choong tweeted.

To retaliate against one mans unsound action, use 10 million ringgit! Will it reform him? Are the rich Muslim countries doing the same?

Meanwhile, a hardline Malaysian group also expressed skepticism about Anwars move, saying harsher action should be taken against Sweden.

Sending copies of the Quran translation is not a step that will significantly impact Sweden because there is no guarantee that it will reach and be read by the Swedes, Muhammad Fauzi Asmuni, president of the Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia, told BenarNews.

He said along with protests, the government should impose a boycott on Swedish products and other measures.

Calling on Muslims to respond to evil with good is commendable, but sometimes it does not solve problems, especially problems that require a strong stance from Muslims, he said.

Also, there is no guarantee it wont be burned again.

CORRECTION: An earlier version incorrectly reported the number of translated Qurans expected to published under the government plan.
Sheng Feng No. 128, a missing Taiwanese-flagged fishing boat, is seen in this undated photo released by the Philippine Coast Guard, Feb. 27, 2023.

The Philippines deployed search-and-rescue teams Monday to help look for a missing Taiwan-flagged fishing boat with a crew of one Taiwanese and five Indonesians, the coast guard said.

The boat, Sheng Feng No. 128, was last seen some 414 nautical miles (766.7 kilometers) northwest of the island nation of Palau in the western Pacific, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said in a statement.

The PCG Command Center in Manila said it had directed Coast Guard Districts in the eastern seaboard and facing the Pacific to carry out the search-and-rescue operations after Commander Arthur Yang, Taiwans coast guard attache, requested assistance.

Two U.S. Coast Guard aircraft had earlier been deployed to conduct air surveillance but yielded a negative result, the PCG said.

Similarly, a commercial vessel as well as eight Taiwanese fishing boats had scoured the vast seas but come up empty, it said. Two Taiwanese coast guard cutters were also on the way to search vicinity waters, the statement said.

The Philippine assistance was requested due to the possibility that the missing Taiwanese fishing vessel drifted towards the countrys eastern seaboard, the PCG said.

Taiwanese investigators ride a rubber boat as they inspect a ship involved in the alleged shooting of a Taiwanese fisherman during their probe in Manila, May 28, 2013. In September 2019, a Philippine court found eight Filipino coast guard personnel guilty of conspiring to shoot and kill the Taiwanese fisherman in the incident that strained ties between the neighboring nations. [Aaron Favila/AP Photo, File]

The Philippines adheres to the one-China policy but enjoys healthy commercial relations with Taiwan, where an estimated 150,000 Filipinos live and work, making them the third largest contingent of expatriate workers.

Both Taipei and Manila also have overlapping claims to parts of the South China Sea, along with China, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei.

Recently, the Philippines granted the United States greater access to its military bases over fears of a potential invasion of Taiwan by China.

The last diplomatic row between the Philippines and Taiwan took place in 2013, when Taipei imposed sanctions on Manila after the killing of a Taiwanese fisherman by Filipino coast guard personnel in waters north of the Philippine archipelago.

Taiwan alleged that the killing took place in its exclusive economic zone and was a violation of international law. The sanctions included the freezing of applications for work permits, the cessation of economic exchanges and military exercises in waters between the two sides. The row however was later resolved, and diplomatic ties normalized.

Jojo Rinoza and Jeoffrey Maitem contributed to this report from Manila and Davao City, Philippines.
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A thematic stamp collection highlighting the postal history of Hartford in the 18th and 19th centuries is heading to auction in March after winning several major awards. A result of years of searching for specific stamps and documents, the collection provided a rare perspective on where the stamps originated and how they were distributed.

People have an outdated image of stamp collecting, says Charles Epting of H.R. Harmer Fine Stamp Auctions, the New York-based firm handling the sale. They think its still people in solitude, hinging stamps for themselves. Over the past couple of decades, its become more about collections shown competitively. Theres also a whole other layer to it when the stamps are still on the original envelopes.

Anthony Dewey, whos lived in Connecticut his whole life, studied engineering at UConn and is now retired, says hes been collecting stamps since he was 8 years old and has always been fascinated with local history.

I have a postcard collection of Hartford as well, says Dewey, who has exhibited competitively at stamp conventions since 1991. In 2005, I decided to do more with U.S. history, and someone suggested postal history markings. Early letters were not like [we] have today. Before 1847, the only option you had was pre-sized letter sheets, folded and sealed with wax.

The collection is essentially mail to and from Hartford, Epting says, but Tony used it to create a history of America. Hes one of the people bringing new life to stamp collecting.

An item from Anthony Deweys prize-winning collection highlighting the postal history of Hartford.

Because of who could afford to send mail in the 1700s and 1800s, essentially everyone whod get a letter in those days would be sea captains or prominent city residents or Revolutionary War soldiers, Epting says.

The oldest letter in the collection is from 1717, nearly 60 years before the U.S. Postal Service began. It was sent through the British Colonial Postal Service and has the marking On His Majestys Service. The first Connecticut post office opened in 1775. At some times in history, the system had competition from other postal services such as the Hartford Mail Route.

Among the local institutions referenced in the collection are Hartford City Hall (via a letter from its then-mayor Thomas Seymour), Union Station (through letters sent by the Hartford, Providence, Fishkill Railroad, which formed in 1849), the Hartford Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Steam Boiler Inspection & Insurance and The Hartford Courant, which was founded in 1764, predating the state postal system.

There are several pieces in the collection related to Charles Dudley Warner, who was editor of The Courant in the 1860s and 70s and cowrote the novel The Gilded Age with his Farmington Avenue neighbor Mark Twain.

When competition judges told Dewey the cutoff date hed imposed on his historical collection, 1900, seemed arbitrary, he looked for a more defendable date and realized that 1897 was when Connecticut opened its first branch office. That milestone came about because a local factory didnt want their workers to go downtown every time they needed to post a letter. It perfectly reflected the growth of industry at that time, Dewey says.

Dewey says he didnt want to sell the stamps in the collection format he created but as separate items. He realized that they crossed over into different categories and interests. I prefer that its sold the way its being sold, lot by lot. There are so many different aspects, like letters from the 1850s to China and Japan. I had gathered all these pieces together because they were tied to Hartford. I achieved my goal of exhibiting the collection. I couldnt go any further with it. It was time to say goodbye.

He says the collection won three national Grand Awards at philatelic conventions. This is the first time he has sold the collection through an auction house.

Tonys belief, Epting says, is that so many pieces in his collection would fit into other collections. For example, prisoner-of-war camps. The main appeal of course in Hartford, but theres a lot of crossover.

Digging into this collection forced me to look at Hartford in a different way, says Epting, a history buff who lives in Duchess County, New York but has visited Hartford many times and has been to a Yard Goats game.

The Courant Almanac of 1873 is part of Anthony Deweys collection of mail items that collectively explore the history of Hartford and its postal system in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Other stamp collections have used cities as their main themes  Epting mentions ones centered around Philadelphia and Chicago  but Hartford is ideal for such treatment because its not too large a city and it was home to a number of world-famous letter writers.

One item in the collection that jumped out to me was addressed to a publisher in Boston, Epting says. The return address is S.L. Clemens. That in itself is fantastic. Samuel L. Clemens was the real name of Mark Twain. The envelope no longer contains a letter, but that document was located in a museum based on information from the envelope. Twain was telling one of his publishers that he no longer wanted them to handle his books. Its basically a breakup letter, Epting says, adding that the existence of the envelope is also special. Letters survive. Envelopes are much scarcer.

I have a few regrets, Dewey says of the collection he amassed. I never did a Thomas Hooker [letter or envelope], though he wrote profusely, or a Jonathan Trumbull. Those items exist in institutional collections.

The only time the collection has been shown in Hartford was at a convention there a few years ago.

Deweys ready to move on to other collecting projects and let others handle these precious historic items.

Holding a letter that was written to a Connecticut soldier in a Confederated prison camp during the Civil War brought history to life right in my hand, he says.

Reach reporter Christopher Arnott at carnott@courant.com.
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GREAT BARRINGTON  A student suffered a cut to the forehead in a three-vehicle crash Monday morning on Route 7 at the Monument Mountain Regional High School entrance.

The student, 18, was traveling south on Route 7 around 7:20 a.m. when they attempted to turn left into the school driveway. They pulled directly into the path of a van that was headed north bound and which T-Boned the students car on the passenger side, Great Barrington Police Chief Paul Storti wrote in an email.

The impact by the van spun the students vehicle around and into a third vehicle that was waiting to exit the school entrance.

The student was taken by ambulance to Fairview Hospital for a minor forehead laceration, Storti said. No other injuries were reported.

The accident happened before a police officer had arrived for the daily 7:30 a.m. to 7:35 a.m. shift at the intersection to manage traffic as school buses exit.

The crash highlights long-running concerns about the intersection.

Storti, as well as the larger community, have long fretted over configuration at the schools entrance and the various accidents over the years involving young drivers and fast-moving Route 7 traffic.

The state Department of Transportation agreed to add flashing lights to the intersection after a 2016 crash. A plan to rework the entrance to improve safety will be built into plans to either remodel or rebuild the high school in the next few years.

Monday's accident appears to be the seventh at the high school entrance since 2014.
Community News Editor / Librarian

Jeannie Maschino is community news editor and librarian for The Berkshire Eagle. She has worked for the newspaper in various capacities since 1982 and joined the newsroom in 1989.
AmeriCorps worker Kaliel Murrell shovels snow Thursday morning in front of the Habitat for Humanity property on Robbins Avenue in Pittsfield.
Tonight's rundown:

 Talking Points Memo: Joe Biden continues to decline with the world watching and remains out of the press reach

 Presidential Historian Larry Cook weighs in on how Bidens relationship with the press compares to past presidents

 US Special Forces have been confirmed to be in Ukraine

 OReilly describes Democrats hosting the DNC in Chicago as Crazy Arrogant

 The trial of Fox News gets underway

 58% of Americans are now living paycheck to paycheck even as inflation begins to cool off

 Smart Life: Utilizing Kelly Blue Book when searching for a new car

 This Day in History: FDR dies in office

 Final Thought: what to do when someone is disrespectful to you

In Case You Missed It:

 Read Bill's latest column, "Reason to Believe"

 Join 'Team Normal!' Order your gear now at BillOReilly.com!

 Pre-order Bills next bestseller Killing the Witches NOW

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates International Biotech Conclave, first-ever in Northeast

International Bio-resource Conclave along with the 22nd Congress of the International Society for Ethno-pharmacology and the 10th Congress of Society for Ethno-pharmacology (ISE SFEC-2023) was held from February 24-26, 2023 at the City Convention Centre, Imphal, Manipur with the theme Reimagine Ethnopharmacology : Globalisation of Traditional Medicine''.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said, while inaugurating the event, that for the first time since Independence, North East Region (NER) is organising an International Conference on Biotechnology involving over 700 International and national delegates representing over 35 countries.

The Institute of Bio-resources and Sustainable Development (IBSD) organised the Conference in collaboration with Society for Ethno-pharmacology, India and International Society for Ethno-pharmacology, Switzerland.

Dr Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary Department of Biotechnology (DBT) said, "The microbial culture collection centre of IBSD is unique with a huge collection of microbes from NER, which can play as a potential lead for not only new drug development but also very effective for the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) study."

IBSD has established a Science Museum at Maha Union Govt. Higher Secondary School, Chandel, an Aspirational district of Manipur. IBSD is organising many activities like webinars, seminars, lab visits for students from different schools, colleges of Manipur to promote scientific thinking about local bioresources of the region.
The Western Cape Government has added its voice to the call for men to play a part in addressing the problem of gender-based violence. Its newly launched, impactful GBV awareness campaign encourages abused men to reach out to the national GBV Command Centre for help.

Research showed that most men who were abusers had in fact been victims of abuse themselves. This insight inspired the campaigns message.

The campaign, produced in collaboration with Cape Town advertising agency FCB, includes video, radio, and online elements.

The 60-second video depicts a small boy who witnesses his abusive fathers behaviour towards his mother, and then endures the same abuse. As the boy grows up, he finds that trauma and learned behaviours begin to manifest in his adult life. Realising that he is repeating the pattern of abuse, he calls the 'Help for men' Command Centre, which channels support to the men via various resources.

Men who have been abused are far more likely to become abusive. Stop the cycle. It can end with you.

This helpline provides counselling for boys and men to deal with their pain, trauma, and the abuse they have received in their lifetime, to help them take responsibility and end the cycle of abuse.

Produced by Romance Films director Greg Gray, and executive producer Helena Woodfine, the video reinforces the campaigns message: Men who have been abused are far more likely to become abusive. Stop the cycle. It can end with you.

Premier Alan Winde said: It is critical for men who have been exposed to violence or were victims themselves in their youth to seek help. Do not be afraid. Put your pride to one side. Speak to a relative, or a friend. Seek professional help by accessing services offered by our Department of Social Development. You are not alone. Speak up and speak out. By opening up about their own trauma, they can end the cycle of abuse, start a cycle of healing and become positive role models for other generations of young boys.

Western Cape minister of Social Development, Sharna Fernandez said: To make a difference, it is necessary to address the many root causes of GBV, which include intergenerational abuse and sustained exposure to violence. This spans race, income bracket, and geographic location.

Advertising agency FCBs executive creative director Jacquie Mullany said: The campaign aims at helping abused men to reach out for support and help, so that they can avoid perpetrating violence against women and children themselves.

The video and radio commercials can be found at helpformen.co.za.

Counselling services can also be accessed by visiting your nearest DSD office, or by contacting one of our funded NPO partners. Services can also be accessed by calling the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428.

More information about services can be found at helpformen.co.za.

Western Cape Government information

URL: www.westerncape.gov.za

URL: helpformen.co.za

Helpline: 0800 428 428

Advertising agency information

Agency: FCB Africa

Deputy managing director: Leslie-Anne vd Nest

CCO: Mike Barnwell

Executive CD: Jacquie Mullany

Creative director: Ntobeko Ximba

Copywriter: Jacquie Mullany

Art director: Ntobeko Ximba

Producer: Khosi Khumalo

Production company information

Production company: Romance Films

Director: Greg Gray

Executive Producer: Helena Woodfine

Contact Person: Helena Woodfine

Contact email: vt.smlifecnamor@aneleh




Africa Public Health Foundation has appointed Ebere Okereke as its chief executive officer.

Source: Supplied. Ebere Okereke, the new chief executive officer of Africa Public Health Foundation.

Okereke's key priorities will include strengthening Africa Public Health Foundation's role as a leader in promoting health equity in Africa, building strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, and enhancing the foundation's capacity to respond to emerging health challenges in the region.

Okereke brings with her more than 30 years of experience as a global health physician in various fields, notably in the United Kingdom, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Trinidad and Tobago.

She brings a depth of expertise in leadership, change management, system strengthening and organisational development, programme design and implementation team building, stakeholder engagement and management communication, training, advocacy, report writing, presentation and, generally technical expertise in public and global health.

She has co-authored e-learning resources for the UKs Royal College of General Practitioners and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Additionally, she was an honorary senior lecturer at the School of Medicine, Leeds University and, is an associate member of the Bradford University School of Health Studies' Centre for Inclusion and Diversity and on the steering committee and faculty of the Africa CDC Kofi Annan global health leadership programme.

Africa Public Health Foundations governing council, led by Bernard Haufiku, welcomes Okereke and looks forward to working with her to achieve the foundation's mission of improving public health in Africa.
For 50 years, TrueLove magazine has served style and Black excellence. Always new, always challenging, always changing. The TrueLove woman is navigating her many roles effortlessly - from killing it in the boardroom and living her best life on a girl's trip, to rolling up her sleeves as a 'makoti' at a family gathering. And with editor-in-chief Mbali Soga returning we have exciting developments in store for the first chapter of our next 50 years together . . .

Mbali Soga, editor-in-chief at TrueLove magazine

Being back at the helm of TrueLove feels like a homecoming after a decade at the magazine (in various capacities), says Mbali. Ive missed telling authentic stories that spark something in you  just as my dreams started becoming a reality when I picked up my very first issue. But what Ive missed most are the readers! You taught me humility, showed me the value of community by welcoming me into the sisterhood, and having those dynamic, culturally relevant conversations. I am excited to be a part of this next chapter!

Coming out of the pandemic, were all changing to meet emotional and financial challenges and focusing on what really matters. So, this year TrueLove will be packed with in-depth stories thatll take on all the conflicting information thats thrown at us about our health, beauty, careers, parenting and lifestyles. Our journalists will cut through the noise, test the facts, balance the truths, and bring you stories you can trust, in our unique voice.

With this shift in mind, well now be publishing TrueLove quarterly, with a new issue each season, in spring, summer, autumn and winter, along with our special projects. It will be a quarterly handbook on all things career, money, and relationships  think of it as the girlfriend in your handbag. The four issues per year will be paired with three high-quality brand extensions, one of them being TrueLove Hair. Expect the latest style, hair and beauty features, exclusive local and international interviews as well as inspired success stories. And well be announcing special live TrueLove events along with developments in the digital space, so keep an eye out in the magazine and on our social pages.

Join us, as we live the life that we have always dreamt of, and fearlessly go for our goals. Whether its starting that business, shaking imposter syndrome, and applying for that job or showing up and showing off while looking fabulous, TrueLove will be right beside you with the right tools, tips, and tricks to the 'soft life', says Mbali.

Meet Mbali

Mbali spent 10 years working with TrueLove in various roles, including as editor between 2017 and 2022. In 2019, the vision and new direction that she brought to TrueLove captured the attention of FIPP (The International Federation of Periodical Publishers) and UPM (United Paper Mills), who named Mbali as the overall winner of their Rising Stars Award. Local and international advertising and marketing authorities have also taken note. Over the past two years, during her time as head of content at South Africa's number one online fashion retailer, Superbalist.com, Mbali worked on two Loerie award-winning campaigns as well as one Effie award-winning campaign.

Mbalis eye for style and her knowledge of our local design community made her an essential part of the Superbalist team that created the corporate uniform for SA's newest airline, Lift. She was also on the creative team that brought you the hottest retail collaboration with visual artist Lulama Wolf. And now, after a year stretching her wings in the digital space, Mbali is back at TrueLove to lead this exciting new part of our journey.




Hosting is a fundamental part of how the digital world works. It is therefore important that the hosting provider you choose offers the best and most reliable hosting solutions available.

At Domains.co.za, we are a leading hosting provider in South Africa, and we aim to provide our clients with hosting thats fast, reliable, and secure. We understand the importance of being able to deliver on what we promise and have worked hard over the years to perfect hosting solutions that make sense for business owners and everyday users alike.

Your website is your business most treasured marketing tool.

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Reason 1: We use technology that rocks!

The worlds best recipes contain a whole lot of incredible ingredients. And we treat hosting the same way. We combine innovative technology like Supermicro hardware with Intel Scalable Second-Generation processors, and Super-Fast Enterprise SSD and NVME drives in Raid 10. To this we add our technical savvy and forward-thinking approach. The result? Delicious hosting that really does rock your world.

Reason 2: Weve passed the test of time.

After more than twenty years in the industry and as the largest operational ICANN Registrar in Africa  weve seen it all. The technology industry is anything but patient, and our ability to pivot our offering in accordance with what our customers want, has helped us stay at the forefront. Your website is your business most treasured marketing tool. You can trust us to keep it running exactly the way you want it to.

Reason 3: Its not just about the sale, its about the relationship.

Just because you're a customer doesnt mean the 'wooing' should end. Luckily, at Domains.co.za we are slightly obsessed with our clients, and we constantly think of ways to add more value to our customers experiences. From freebies and extras to ongoing educational articles, tips and after-sales support  we share the love, always. All our packages are perfectly scalable as well, so we can stay besties for as long as you like.

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South Africa's plan to partially privatise its national airline South African Airways is in trouble because the country's competition regulator may not approve the deal, news website Semafor reported on Thursday, 23 February.

A South African Airways aircraft is seen at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa on 12 January 2020. Reuters/Sumaya Hisham/File Photo

The South African government in 2021 signed a deal with the Takatso Consortium to sell a majority stake in the state-owned carrier to the consortium, which had promised to invest over R3bn ($164.71m) to revive the airline.

The involvement of Global Airways, which is part of the consortium and owns the regional airline Lift, could pose a market consolidation risk and is a point of concern for the authorities at South Africa's Competition Commission, Semafor said.

The competition watchdog has begun investigating the possibility that the new company would stifle competition if the deal goes through, Semafor added, citing officials at the ministries of finance and public enterprises, and an official at the government-chosen consortium.

The regulator did not respond to Reuters' request for comment late on Thursday, 23 February.
Mix 93.8, the leading radio station in Johannesburg, is thrilled to announce the launch of its new drive show, The Mix Drive With Mo G. The new show will join the station's already star-studded line up this March and will air weekdays between 4-7pm.

Mo G, the host of the show, brings his authentic, fun, informative, and entertaining style to the airwaves, with a fast-paced program that covers topical issues such as mental health, captains of industry, comedy, and talking cars. Mo G will be joined by an A-team of co-hosts, including Lauri, Tlou, and Toni, who will bring their own unique perspectives to the show.

"We are excited to add The Mix Drive With Mo G to our already impressive line-up," said Sanele Mlotana, program manager of Mix 93.8. "Mo G and his team will provide a fresh and engaging voice to our listeners, and we can't wait for them to hear what we have in store."

The new show comes on the heels of Mix 93.8's move to Waterfall City, which allows the station to remain true to its heritage of providing programs that transcend generations and connect borders. Kudzayi Tiribabi, station manager of Mix 93.8, said, "Our new tailor-made space in Waterfall City is the perfect location for us to continue building lifelong chemistry and friendships while expanding our on-air output. We are excited to join a multi-national, inclusive, and collaborative community."

Listeners can expect to hear a mix of great music, brand partnerships, and partying up every Friday with a classic mix. The Mix Drive With Mo G promises to be a must-listen show for all South Africans.

About Mix 93.8

Mix 93.8 is the leading radio station in Johannesburg, broadcasting a mix of great music and engaging programming to listeners across the city. The station has a reputation for providing programs that transcend generations and connect borders. Mix 93.8 is committed to serving its community and building lifelong chemistry and friendships through inclusive and collaborative programming.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mix 93.8

Email: az.oc.mfxim@ofni

Phone: 011 568 0871

Website: www.mixfm.co.za




After listening attentively to the voice tests of more than 400 entrants and travelling 2,840kms to eight cities in four provinces, the OFM O-dition voice talent search enters its final phase.

The panel of judges has selected five finalists, who will vie for the grand prize worth R50,000, which includes: R10,000 cash, a laptop, a media practitioner broadcast kit, a three-month presenter contract and mentorship from OFMs current presenters.

Our five lucky finalists will showcase their presenting talent live on air 1-3 March 2023.

They are:

Michael Ndabandaba (26) from Klerksdorp, who will be joining Nico van der Westhuizen and the team on the Joyride (3-6pm) on Wednesday 1 March.

Anny Bruyns (37) from Bloemfontein will be broadcasting along with Yolanda Maartens on Mid-Morning Magic (9am-12pm) on Thursday 2 March.

Janrie de Lange (28) from Welkom will join Pulane Nel-Sekepe in the studio during At Lunch (12-3pm) also on Thursday 2 March.

Cavall Burgess (45) from Kimberley, who will be joining Yolanda Maartens on Mid-Morning Magic (9am-12pm) on Friday 3 March.

Tatum Williams (31) from Bloemfontein will join Pulane Nel-Sekepe in the studio during At Lunch (12-3pm) on Friday 3 March.

OFM programme manager Tim Thabethe says the O-dition is a gesture and opportunity to offer someone the chance at a career in media, which they may have always dreamed of.

OFM took the time to travel Central South Africa extensively to find the person who would ultimately be the next voice on OFM, and the journey to find this individual was very rewarding.

On Friday 3 March, from 3pm, OFMs listeners will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite O-dition presenter through our Telegram channel. Voting will end at 11:59pm on Monday, 6 March.

The winner will be announced in the Good Morning Breakfast Show (6-9am) on

Wednesday, 8 March 2023.

For more info, contact az.oc.mfo@gnitekram.
Some of government's key responsibilities are to provide citizens with basic infrastructure, such as sanitation, roads, housing, and access to fresh and drinkable water. With this in mind, the construction industry is hoping for more detailed plans from the government for meeting these needs in 2023, says Roelof van den Berg, CEO of the Gap Infrastructure Corporation (GIC).

Roelof van den Berg, CEO of the Gap Infrastructure Corporation

During his recent State of the Nation Address (Sona), President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of water, sanitation, and infrastructure as essential nation-building tools. He indicated that the government would prioritise and increase investments in structural development in the coming months.

For a nation to thrive, its people need to be healthy, have access to basic housing, and be able to physically reach economic opportunities. For this, the government must provide people with access to adequate water and sewer reticulation systems, suitable housing, and practical, functional roads, says Van den Berg.

This is, ostensibly, the path that the president has placed government on for this year. But Sona only gave us an overview of a few large-scale infrastructure projects that are currently in the pipeline, and made no mention of the governments intentions to address smaller, more localised problems that affect the average person every day.

Addressing the water and sanitation issues

Van den Berg notes that a large portion of Sona was dedicated to urgent measures for addressing the ongoing electricity crisis, but that electricity should not completely overshadow other developing problems.

It is imperative that we start preparations to avoid what could be the countrys next major crises: severe water shortages and spiking health issues associated with lacklustre sanitation infrastructure, he emphasises.

Ramaphosa mentioned that the Department of Water and Sanitation is in the process of investing in a few major infrastructure projects nationwide, such as Phase 2 of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. This project includes construction of a dam, transfer tunnel, and reservoirs that will help secure water for Gauteng, the Free State, North West, Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape.

However, while projects in key areas such as the Lesotho Highlands will be pivotal in securing water supply, this does not address the lack of in-home water and sewer connections still plaguing the nation.

The latest General Household Survey released by government reveals that 11.3% or just under 7 million people still do not have access to piped or tap water in their dwellings. Additionally, only 64.8% of households have flush toilets that are connected to a public sewer system or septic or conservancy tanks. Another 13.4% still largely rely on pit toilets.

GIC emphasises the importance of sewer reticulation systems and improved household sanitation connections, understanding just how crucial they are to improving South Africans personal hygiene and, as a result, their health.

To make a lasting impact in many South Africans lives, we need to take a more individualised approach to infrastructure development and install water and sewerage connections in every home in the country.

A roadmap required for roadworks

Roads are notoriously difficult to maintain. High traffic rates, heavy vehicles, and excessive rain take their toll on public roads. Governments role, however, is more responsive than preventative in this regard, which means that a large portion of the roads budget must be allocated to road repairs each year.

According to research from consulting firm Frost and Sullivan, more than half of the countrys unpaved and almost a third of its paved roads are in a poor to very poor condition.

Many roads that link important metropolises, and especially roads in rural areas, are simply inadequate for transport and commuter needs. Considerable repairs and improvements are needed to enable people to access employment opportunities, or allow trucks to transport goods to stores in small communities.

Addressing the roads problem, and infrastructure development in general, Ramaphosa announced that R600m has been allocated to Infrastructure South Africa for project preparation within rural and under-resourced areas. By January, some R232bn worth of construction projects were already underway.

Importantly, the South African National Roads Agency has reportedly already awarded R18bn worth of road construction contracts in the past three months alone. This is an important step toward fixing the local roads network, adds Van den Berg.

Overcoming the skills obstacle

Increased construction directly translates to higher employment among skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers. But large, state-driven construction projects require experienced developers which employ highly skilled and qualified engineers and other technical workers.

The president explained that one of the greatest obstacles to infrastructure investments is a lack of technical skills and project management capacity. Fortunately, South Africa is home to many prominent, large developers capable of managing complex national projects and employing, overseeing, and upskilling smaller contractors to ensure that government meets its infrastructure goals.

Partnerships between government and private infrastructure development companies will be vital in restoring and upgrading South Africas ailing and outdated infrastructure, and many large developers are ready to pick up the mantle, concludes Van den Berg.
In March 2021, officials from New Britain, Farmington and Hartford announced a planned $10 million makeover of Batterson Park, the nearly 200-acre summertime swimming spot that has been shuttered since 2015. The park was slated to reopen as early as mid-2023.

But nearly two years on, renovation work hasnt begun, and Hartford officials say the new completion target date is 2025.

The city is still moving forward with Batterson Parks renovations, Thea Montanez, Hartfords chief operating officer, said last week.

So far, the city, which owns the park that is located in Farmington and New Britain, has completed a water quality investigation, solicited design work, done operations planning and selected demolition, the city said in its weekly e-newsletter.

But its unclear whether demolition work has already been done.

We aim to make the park available this summer for limited and passive use, Montanez said. To meet that goal, the city is in process of contracting with a demolition contractor to remove two structures on site that have been professionally evaluated and deemed structurally unsound.

Batterson Park has been closed while the debate continues over renovations. (Douglas Hook / Hartford Courant)

The newsletter to residents says Full design and renovation of the park will not be complete until 2024, but we aim to make the park available this summer for limited and passive use. Montanez and Akash Kaza, communications director for Mayor Luke Bronin, confirmed that date was an error.

For decades, Batterson Park was a popular summertime oasis for residents of Hartford and the surrounding area  an accessible alternative to Connecticuts shoreline, especially for the many city residents without cars.

Facing budget constraints, Hartford scaled back on maintenance and by 2015 shut down the park entirely, leaving it to vandals and the elements in the meantime.

The $10 million in state funding, secured chiefly by House Speaker Matt Ritter, is intended to clean up the parks 165-acre pond, remove invasive plants, truck in more sand for the beach and replace the decrepit, vandalized concession building and bath house.

Harford public works department was to lead the renovation, then New Britain and Farmington were to join the city in maintaining the park, along with the nonprofit Batterson Park Conservancy, established five years ago by neighbors and friends of the park.

But in July of 2022, the city ordered the conservancy to cease its fundraising and other activities on behalf of the park and barred members from the property with the threat of litigation. At the time, Bronin said, This particular organization, while it includes some very passionate people, just turned out not to be the right one to support the work and ultimately ensure the sustainability of the park for many years to come.

Construction that was scheduled to begin in the fall of last year did not. With funding secured a year prior, Montanez told the Courant in September 2022, While the planning and design work is moving forward, construction will not begin this fall.

In March of 2021 Connecticut House Speaker Matt Ritter and other elected leaders announce a project that will reopen Batterson Park. Courant file photo

Batterson Park Conservancy

The Conservancy was spearheaded by New Britain residents Neil Connors and his wife, Allison Cappuccio. Every park in Hartford has a group that serves as a caretaker and advocate of that park and the Conservancy was modeled after that of Elizabeth Park, Cappuccio said last year.

Thats where we came on, is that nobody was advocating for Batterson, Cappuccio said. It represents 25% of Hartfords parklands, and nobody was advocating for it.

Connors is afraid that remains true.

Despite the disbanding of the Conservancy, Connors is pressing ahead with a core group of six to 10 advocates to recruit new board members from Hartford, Farmington and New Britain to provide the public with transparency around proposed renovation work.

Connors, an attorney, said that after reading the citys ordinance on parks and recreation, he is confident that continuing his grassroots conservancy is within his legal rights.

The city has ordinance 26-2, which pertains to the use of park organizations, Connors said. The policy reads that any group using the name of a city-owned park must be nondiscriminatory and that membership must be open to all residents. They revoked our conservancy without citing any reasons. As far as Im concerned, we are within our scope and meet those qualifications.

Connors said that he and others will continue to advocate and operate under the conservancy.

Rows of picnic tables sit in unkempt landscaping in front of an abandoned building near the beach at Batterson Park in Farmington on Aug. 1, 2019. Courant file photo

The main thing we are pushing for is a limited-use opening to just get this place safe for people to utilize this year, Connors said.

But he said he is hesitant given the citys prior stalling on renovation work, and disagrees that only two properties need to be demolished.

If you go there for five minutes you will immediately determine all the buildings need to go, Connors said. Why not go out and demolish all the buildings in one go? It seems to me it would be more cost effective. If you wanted to film Season 2 of the apocalyptic show The Last of Us then Batterson Parks abandoned structures would be a great place. Its that bad.

The city said demolition of the two structures is set to begin soon and in the near future the team managing the project will hold meetings for the community in order to share the design plans and progress related to this historic park.

The city has hired contractors CSG Group and FHI Studios to manage the project.

Im hopeful, Connors said. But lets wait and see.

Stephen Underwood can be reached at sunderwood@courant.com
Following remarks on the success of the broadcast digital migration by the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communications this week about the switch-off of analogue television broadcasting in South Africa, Cape Town TV has expressed the opinion that digital migration is not the success claimed by the minister.

Source  Kirill Kedrinski 123rf Cape Town TV has expressed the opinion that digital migration is not the success claimed by the communications minister

The minister stated that the broadcast digital migration has been a success and that this enables her to switch-off analogue broadcasting on 31 March 2023, as she announced in a recent Government Gazette.

The minister believes that the switch-off will not leave millions of South Africans without access to television, as we have previously warned, says Cape Town TV.

Eroding the free-to-air market

The problem is that the Minister is narrowly focused on the roll-out of government subsidised DTT decoders, of which some 1,5 million were manufactured in 2015.

She completely ignores those television viewers who do not qualify for the free decoders, who are effectively being forced to migrate their television viewing to the pay-TV platform DStv and StarSat, or e-Medias commercial OpenView platform which does not carry community TV channels.

This means that the free-to-air TV market is being eroded, says Cape Town TV.

As a result it says the future of digital terrestrial transmission (DTT) looks very bleak, with relatively few people having either a digital TV set with built-in DTT tuner or the DTT set-top box.

This is because the DTT set-top boxes are generally unavailable in retailers, particularly in rural areas, and the relatively high cost of new digital TV sets, which start at around R4,000 - a high cost for poor households.

The missing middle TV audience

While the Minister says that the remaining number of STBs to be installed was 185,382 in December last year, even if all of the government-supplied decoders are installed the number (1.2 - 1.5 million) represents only around 12% of TV households that currently receive only free-to-air television.

Households with income between R3,500 and R12,000  what has been termed the missing middle TV audience  are forced to pay for their own migration to digital platforms, a scenario which affects some 5.7 million households.

Consequently we believe that Ntshavheni is misleading the public by focusing only on installed government decoders while ignoring everyone else.

The SABC has reportedly lost 30-40% of its audience share in those provinces where the SABC analogue signal has been switched off, and this figure is likely to be far larger in the major urban centres where analogue broadcasting is still the norm, states Cape Town TV.

It adds that while the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) did conduct a public awareness campaign concerning the ASO, this was targeted at getting indigent households to apply for government decoders - it did not attempt to persuade all TV viewers of the benefits of the DTT platform, such as the increased number of channels available and improved picture quality, as envisaged when the campaign was originally mooted.

The consultation process not finalised

Moreover, Ntshavheni claims to have finalised the consultation process that was ordered by the Constitutional Court last year when it ordered her to consult with stakeholders prior to setting a new date for the analogue television switch-off (ASO), in a case brought by e-Media, the SOS Support Public Broadcasting Coalition and Media Monitoring Africa (MMA).

But all she has done is simply requested written submissions from broadcasters, declining to hold any discussions or oral presentations.

While the Minister has said that she will engage with the affected parties on this matter, she also says this engagement would simply present her departments views on their particular concerns rather than engaging in a dialogue with all affected parties, including Sentech and ICASA, to find a solution, which we believe is necessary, says Cape Town TV.

Retaining analogue broadcasting under the 700 MHz

Free-to-air broadcasters are already engaging with Sentech and ICASA in positing a solution that retains analogue broadcasting in frequencies under the 700 MHz band which are expressly reserved for television broadcasting.

It explains that this solution will enable those poor households that do not qualify for government decoders to retain their access to all free-to-air channels while not affecting those frequencies that have been sold to cellular operators to widen mobile connectivity.

Cape Town TV is currently broadcasting on an analogue frequency under 700MHz which is not affected by the frequency auction.

We believe it is essential that this service be maintained until such time as this frequency is required for the inception of Multiplex 3 in the Western Cape. We look forward to engaging with Minister Ntshavheni, ICASA and Sentech to implement this solution.
A strong social media presence provides companies with so many different ways to build and maintain brand loyalty with customers.

Source:  Camilo Jimene Unsplash A strong social media presence provides companies with so many different ways to build and maintain brand loyalty with customers

At the end of January this year, there were 28 million social media users in South Africa, plus the past 12 months have seen social media become an integral part of peoples lives, which has impacted significantly on how consumers perceive and interact with brands.*

Create a personal connection with consumers

One way in which social media influences brand loyalty is through the ability to create a personal connection with consumers.

Social media allows brands to engage directly with their audience and provide a platform for two-way communication. This interaction helps to create a sense of community and belonging for consumers, leading to increased brand loyalty.

Highlight products and services

Social media also allows brands to highlight their products and services in increasingly dynamic and interactive ways.

Video content, live streams, and other multimedia are just some of the ways in which brands can display the benefits and features of their products. Social media platforms enable this content to be more engaging and compelling to consumers.

In turn, this can result in increased brand awareness and interest in the companys products and services, thereby enhancing customer loyalty.

Influencer marketing

Another way in which social media influences brand loyalty is through the use of influencer marketing.

Influencer marketing involves partnering with popular social media users who have a large following and are seen as trusted sources of information and recommendations.

By collaborating with these influencers, brands can tap into their audience and reach a wider group of potential customers. This can be particularly effective in building brand loyalty as the endorsement of a trusted influencer can carry a lot of weight with consumers.

Of course, the risk is that brands can often be guilty by association when influencers say or do controversial things. One of the most recent examples of this is when Adidas had to terminate its contract with Ye following the entertainers comments on social media.

Targeted advertising

Social media also provides the means to use targeted advertising. These platforms offer a wealth of data on their users, allowing brands to target their ads to specific demographics or interests.

This targeted approach can be more effective in generating interest and loyalty as it ensures that the ads are being shown to individuals who are most likely to be interested in the brand.

Furthermore, it shows a level of personalisation that customers have come to expect of brands to create differentiation in the value proposition.

There is no getting around the impact that social media has had on brand loyalty. Through the ability to create a personal connection with consumers, highlight products and services in an interactive way, collaborate with influencers, and use targeted advertising, brands can more effectively build and maintain loyalty. Those businesses who are not yet active on social media will find it increasingly difficult to stay competitive and relevant.

*Findings from independent customer relationship management company, LoyaltyPlus.
A partnership between mLab and the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA) was established through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement in 2022, to empower South African youth with skills that are necessary in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and beyond.

mLab, with support from the MICT SETA, is implementing a three-month Internet of Things (IoT) training programme in Kimberley in the Northern Cape. Fifteen young people, 40% of whom are female, are participating in this stipend paid programme. Statistics show that only 23% of women in SA hold jobs in ICT, this women-led programme is one of the few initiatives aimed at empowering females because they cannot afford to be left behind in this industry.

Three youth programme participants on the first day of course orientation.

Industries in the Northern Cape, such as mining and transportation could improve productivity and efficiency by using IoT technologies, and thus the skills that we are building could be attractive to employers in the region, says Palesa Antony, mLabs coordinator responsible for the partnership with the MICT SETA. MICT SETA's Senior 4IR Manager, Gugu Sema, says that those youth that are participating in the programme will be at an advantage when work opportunities arise as they would be possessing a cutting edge skill thats required by most employers.

What is the Internet of Things and why is it important?

IoT has become one of the most cutting-edge technologies of the 21st century.

Today, almost every person owns an item that is based on connected technology as a result of IoT. IoT is defined as the network of physical devices or things that are installed with sensors, software, and other forms of technology to connect and swap data with other devices over the internet.

The world is now more connected, and it's changing how we live, work and play. It is thus essential to equip our citizens, especially the youth, with both knowledge and skills to enable them to productively participate in this digital economy.

Programme participants doing an IoT task on the first day of orientation.

The potential impact of the Internet of Things

Youth unemployment, heightened by a mismatch in digital skills that are sought after in the industry, is a major crisis in South Africa that needs to be addressed. This programme is an attempt to close this skills gap.

Antony, who is playing an instrumental role in implementing the programme, says she is hopeful that the trainees will be able to identify entrepreneurial opportunities with these new skills, and go on to develop innovative solutions to solve challenges in communities around them. The electricity crisis is an example of a challenge that is desperately in need of solutions. The current focus is for the trainees to learn about IoT opportunities that exist in industries such as mining, healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and agriculture to name a few," says Antony.

According to Mordor Intelligence, South Africa's high internet user rate is likely to contribute to the market growth of IoT. Many industries in the country have adopted IoT technologies, including retail and automotive. Such rapid growth and technological advancement will create a demand for talent, thus being skilled in IoT is important.
As the second leg of the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator programme, a panel of experts has selected 11 promising small businesses and invited them to pitch to prospective international investors in Dubai.

Image supplied

The first phase of the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator Programme saw public and private-sector partners in each country nominating businesses or entrepreneurs for the programme. From there, 29 of the startups embarked on an intensive virtual training course during December 2022 and in Johannesburg.

The 11 startups attended a dedicated boot camp in Lusaka, Zambia to learn more about how to shape their story for international investors, and to get pitch ready before their big presentations.

The 11 startups shortlisted to present their business plans to a panel of investors for this years MultiChoice Africa Accelerator Programme are:

Tupuca from Angola

Taskmoby from Ethiopia

StarNews Mobile from Ivory Coast

Tendo from Ghana

Zuri Health from Kenya

Dojah Inc and Crop2Cash from Nigeria

Crop2Cash

MaTontine from Senegal

Botlhale AI and Gradesmatch South Africa

Gradesmatch

Mighty Finance Solution from Zambia

Theres no denying the impact African SMMEs have on job creation and economic growth, says Fhulufhelo Badugela, MultiChoice Africa CEO.

Through the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator Programme, our vision is to take that impact and multiply it beyond what our start-up founders ever believed possible. I have no doubt these small businesses will be able to take everything theyve learned so far to unlock transformative business funding.

The MultiChoice Africa Accelerator programme, the brainchild of the MultiChoice Group and part of the MultiChoice Innovation Fund, in collaboration with Dubai-based business incubator Companies Creating Change (C3), technical partner EOH, and Galelo Africa, has been designed as a platform to help grow startup businesses from across Africa.

The programme specifically targets startups and small businesses in the technology sectors of health tech, agritech, fintech, edutech, the circular economy, and creative industries.
As viewers and listeners of The Corbett Report will know by now, it's official: Canada has criminalized dissent.

Yes, Paul Rouleauthe judge appointed by the Canadian government to lead the Public Order Emergency Commission examining the Canadian government's decision to invoke the Emergencies Act last year to crack down on the Freedom Convoyhas delivered his thoroughly unsurprising verdict: the Canadian government was completely justified in its actions!

So what does this all mean?

For starters, it means that government officials now have carte blanche to invoke the Emergencies Act whenever they want in order to squelch any protest movement they dislike before the protest has the chance to effect any significant change.

But beyond that, we are witnessing the apotheosis of that rule by emergency that I identified last year as the new governing paradigm for the erstwhile "liberal Western democracies."

And if that realization doesn't send a chill down your spine, then you're not paying attention.

Strap in, folks. We're going for a deeeeeep dive into the murky world of law, philosophy and government this week.

THE DECISION

Last February, the Canadian government invoked the Emergencies Act to deal with the "national emergency" posed by the honking horns and bouncy castles of the Freedom Convoy protesters.

As I explained late last year, the Emergencies Act is the successor to the War Measures Act, a statute passed by Canadian Parliament in 1914 to provide the government with extraordinary emergency powers in times of war, invasion or insurrection. The War Measures Act was invoked only three times in Canadian history:

during WWI, when it was used to lock up Ukrainian Canadians in internment camps and to quell the Quebec City anti-conscription riots;

during WWII, when it was used to lock up Japanese Canadians (and anyone else deemed to be "about to engage in activities prejudicial to the public safety or the safety of the State") and to censor the press;

and during the October Crisis in 1970, when it was used to suspend the writ of habeas corpus, outlaw the Front de liberation du Quebec, and arrest hundreds of Canadians without charge.

If it occurs to you that each invocation of the War Measures Act involved unconscionable breaches of basic civil rights, then you're not alone. By 1988, the Canadian governmentpressured by survivors of the Japanese internment and other critics of the actwas compelled to table a bill to replace the War Measures Act with a new piece of legislation. This new legislation would, in the words of one member of Parliament, "show those Canadians who have suffered that we have learned from the abuses of the past [. . .] show them our determination that such abuses will never happen again in this country [. . . and] restore their faith in this country and its democratic, political, and judicial processes."

Instead, Canadians got the Emergencies Act.

Now, in lieu of an act that could be invoked in the event of war or insurrection, granting the government the authority to violate basic civil liberties and upend the rule of law, there was an act that could be invoked in the event of war, insurrection, natural disaster, or perceived threat to national security (including, evidently, political protests involving honking horns and bouncy castles), granting the government the authority to violate basic civil liberties and upend the rule of law. (Huzzah?)

The seal on the Emegencies Act remained unbroken from its passage in 1988 until 2022, when the events of the Freedom Convoy necessitatedin the eyes of Trudeau's cabinetan extraordinary crackdown.

At the time that the act was passed, freedom-loving Canadians were assured that the government would invoke it only in times of extreme emergency and would be careful to use the powers it afforded judiciously. But, as an extra layer of insurance against authoritarian overreach, the act also included a clause requiring "an inquiry to be held into the circumstances that led to the declaration being issued and the measures taken for dealing with the emergency." According to this provision, the inquiry's findings are to be presented in a report to Parliament within 360 days of the revocation of the emergency.

Thus it was that last April, Paul Rouleaua long-time donor to the Liberal Party of Canadawas appointed to head the Public Order Emergency Commission examining the Liberal government's invocation of the act. And (wouldn't ya know?), Rouleau announced last week that Trudeau and his cronies were indeed justified in declaring the emergency, forcibly removing the Freedom Convoy protesters, freezing their bank accounts, and generally destroying the last vestige of free speech and permitted public protest in Canada.

For those who want all the nitty-gritty details, you'll want to check out my podcast episode on the inquiry from late last year, Canada's Freedom Convoy, my interview with Rob Kittredge and Hatim Kheir about their participation in the inquiry, and my brand-new podcast on Rouleau's report, Canada Criminalizes Dissent. And, of course, you can read the final report (all five volumes of it) for yourself on the commission's website.

But for those who prefer to cut to the chase, here are Rouleau's own words summarizing his report's main finding:

For reasons that I discuss in detail in the report, I have concluded that when the decision was made to invoke the act on February 14, 2022, cabinet had reasonable grounds to believe that there existed a national emergency arising from threats to the security of Canada that necessitated the taking of special temporary measures.

WHAT IT MEANS

Justice [sic] Rouleau is at pains to stress in his report and in his remarks that his decision does not bear on the legality of the government's actions (that's to be officially determined in a forthcoming judicial review of the matter). He also indicates that this was not a clear-cut, slam-dunk case: "I do not come to this conclusion easily, as I do not consider the factual basis for it to be overwhelming. Reasonable and informed people could reach a different conclusion that the one I arrived at."

Nonetheless, the findings of the commission will have important and long-lasting effects on the course of Canadian politics, society and law.

On the most basic practical level, Rouleau's report offers a list of 56 recommendations for the government to implement. As I discussed in my recent report, this list includes a number of recommendations for giving police and intelligence agencies even more power to spy on and coordinate military-like operations against the country's own citizens. It also contains recommendations on a wide range of subjects that seem beyond the scope of such an inquiry, including a recommendation that the government should "study the impact of social media" with the aim of "addressing the serious challenges that misinformation, disinformation, and other online harms present to individuals and Canadian society" and a recommendation encouraging the government to "continue with its study into cryptocurrencies."

On a broader level, Rouleau's ruling effectively breaks the seal on the Emergencies Act. After 34 years on the shelf, many of the questions surrounding the act have now been answered:

Would the act be used in peace time?

Would it be used against peaceful protesters?

Would it be used to suspend basic charter rights?

Would the government rig the inquiry into the emergency declaration by appointing a political crony and giving him a narrowly defined mandate that is bound to produce a report that exonerates the government?

The answer to all of these questions is a resounding: "You bet!"

That answer won't be surprising to regulars in The Corbett Report audience. But given that the majority of Canadians are (sadly) not Corbett Reporteers, it does have significance for the future of the country. How could Rouleau's finding do anything but embolden Trudeau's government (or indeed any future Canadian government) to invoke the Emergencies Act at the first sign of genuine mass protest? If the Canadian people go along with the commission's verdict, either by actively supporting it or passively accepting it, then what mechanism of accountability will ever cause any cabinet to think twice about pulling the emergency trigger?

This is why, as I pointed out in Canada Criminalizes Dissent, Rouleau emphasized that he saw the "first and foremost" task of the commission to be "to foster public confidence."

To "foster public confidence" in what, exactly? In the government itself, presumably. In the rectitude of its actions. In the proportionality of its response to the perception of the threat posed by non-violent protesters. And in the process itself. "Don't worry, Canadians," Rouleau wishes to say. "The government has investigated itself and found itself guiltless."

And, as I also observed in my recent podcast, this points once again to the centrality of our role in these events. We are not spectators in a stage play titled "The Emergencies Act and the Commission of Inquiry." Or, to the extent that we are, it is only because we fail to realize that this charade of an inquiry is precisely thata piece of theatre put on solely for our benefit. A political puppet show designed to placate us into thinking that those people over there did something to those other people over there and that a Very Serious Person investigated that something and found it to be in order.

Regular viewers of my work will understand the importance of this observation: the tyrants can only function as tyrants if we acquiesce. We the people truly do hold the power, and political authoritarianism is indeedas Etienne de La Boetie pointed out more than 500 years agoa form of voluntary servitude.

In other words, if we decide, on the basis of this charade of an inquiry, that protesting is now illegal and thus not worth taking the risk, then Trudeau and his minions win. Indeed, the government only truly wins if we roll over and accept the commission's report at face value.

But there are even deeper, more fundamental questions that are raised by this entire affair. Questions that go beyond the boundaries of Canada or the time frame of 2022. Questions that threaten to topple our very conception of "the rule of law."

Rouleau himself even raised the specter of these questions in his report:

Tensions between order and freedom sit at the heart of our system of governance. Freedom cannot exist without order, because the machinery of order  such as procedures, laws, police, and courts  create the conditions for the protection of freedom, the enjoyment of freedom, and the mediation of conflicting freedoms. [. . .] It is commonly assumed or asserted that tensions and trade-offs between order and freedom are a distinctive problem of emergencies and emergency powers. In fact, they are not. The fundamental and inevitable tension between order and freedom is a constant; it is simply more visible, and more stark in a time of emergency. In times of emergency, however, freedoms that are usually unconstrained may suddenly be curtailed. This puts a spotlight on the clash of values.

What Rouleau writes is certainly true from the perspective of our Western concept of jurisprudence and political governance. But buried within that perspective are some hidden (and very ominous) assumptions about the rule of law.

THE LAW OF RULE

That freedom cannot function without order is one of those faux-profound truisms that appeal to people who have not thought seriously about the basis of their society and don't want to be troubled with anything that would deepen their understanding of the world.

Freedom cannot function without order. Therefore, we institute governments to codify the law and protect order. Or, in a nutshell, we need the "rule of law."

But even a philosophical novice can see the leap in logic inserted into this argument, namely that order must be codified and protected by government. That is the received wisdom that holds sway in the minds of the average inhabitant of a Western liberal democracy. For them, "the law" is whatever is written by legislators, who have been selected for their task by whatever form of political legitimization (usually election) applies in a given political jurisdiction.

But laws written down by lawmakers in fact represent one particular conception of law: statutory law. Opposed to this is the entire tradition of common lawa body of laws derived from the history of judgments of recognized arbiters (judges) within a given community.

In common law, "the law" is not a single, unified, monolithic, unquestionable set of rules that pertains everywhere and at all times within a given area. Nor is it something that has been written down by a ruler and that must be slavishly obeyed by the ruled.

Instead, the common law balances stability and fluidity, resting on a community's historical judgments, which act as guidelines for future rulings but remain capable of changing with the exigencies of circumstance.

It is not difficult to see who benefits when statutory law is conflated with "the law" in the minds of the public. Of course, the beneficiaries are the erstwhile "lawgivers" who are in the positions of power to set the rules governing society simply by putting pen to paper. In other words, the "rule of law" that the masses clamber for isin a society of statutory lawexposed as simply the law of rule: those who rule make the laws.

The stark reality of the situation is that our concept of law differs only superficially from that promulgated by the monarchs and tyrants of old: that law is whatever the sovereign declares it to be, whenever he declares it. The masses have been placated by the various Magna Cartas and Constitutions and Charters of Rights and Freedoms that have arisen in our modern liberal democracies, each purporting to put checks and balances on the right of the sovereign to act as a tyrant. Under "the rule of law," we are told, even the sovereign must obey the restrictions and limitations that have been legislated into existence to protect our basic rights and liberties.

But, as Rouleau correctly observes, these "checks and balances" are a mirage, and it is at times of declared emergency that "the rule of law" is revealed to be nothing more than the law of rule. A state of exception exists in every statutory law, a moment of aporia in which all the rules and restrictions on the sovereign can be jettisoned at a moment's notice based on the sovereign's own decree. In Canada, that state of exception currently takes the form of the Emergencies Act.

It is in the invocation of the Emergencies Act, then, that we can see the modern system of checks and balances on political power for what it is: mere words, not worth the paper they're written on.

Once again, this will not be surprising to those who have studied this legal history in detail or those who are familiar with my work on States of Emergency. In that report, released just days before the invocation of the Emergencies Act, I outlined the new ruling paradigm for the planetrule by emergency decreeand tied it into the rollout of the Homeland Security state post-9/11 and the rollout of the biosecurity state post-COVID.

In that work I quoted extensively from the brilliant Italian philosopher Giorgio Agamben, especially his seminal book on this topic, State of Exception, in which he observes that "modern totalitarianism can be defined as the establishment, by means of the state of exception, of a legal civil war that allows for the physical elimination not only of political adversaries but of entire categories of citizens who for some reason cannot be integrated into the political system."

And, as Agamben sagely warns, our ignorance of the true nature of the legal paradigm that we are living under is no mere failure of understanding. It is a matter of life and death.

The juridical system of the West appears as a double structure, formed by two heterogeneous yet coordinated elements: one that is normative and juridical in the strict sense (which we can for convenience inscribe under the rubric potestas) and one that is anomic and metajuridical (which we can call by the name auctoritas). The normative element needs the anomic element in order to be applied, but, on the other hand, auctoritas can assert itself only in the validation or suspension of potestas. Because it results from the dialectic between these two somewhat antagonistic yet functionally connected elements, the ancient dwelling of law is fragile and, in straining to maintain its own order, is always already in the process of ruin and decay. The state of exception is the device that must ultimately articulate and hold together the two aspects of the juridico-political machine by instituting a threshold of undecidability between anomie and nomos, between life and law, between auctoritas and potestas. It is founded on the essential fiction according to which anomie (in the form of auctoritas, living law, or the force of law) is still related to the juridical order and the power to suspend the norm has an immediate hold on life. As long as the two elements remain correlated yet conceptually, temporally, and subjectively distinct (as in republican Rome's contrast between the Senate and the people, or in medieval Europe's contrast between spiritual and temporal powers) their dialecticthough founded on a fictioncan nevertheless function in some way. But when they tend to coincide in a single person, when the state of exception, in which they are bound and blurred together, becomes the rule, then the juridico-political system transforms itself into a killing machine.

Whether we interpret Agamben's "killing machine" to be the use of a state of exception to authorize agents of the state to literally murder any declared enemy or we interpret it, in light of the Emergencies Act, to mean the use of a state of exception to subdue opponents of statutory laws mandating a medical intervention that has been shown to cause death, the result is the same. The stakes of this "game" of interplay between politics and jurisprudence could not be higher.

Indoctrinated as most people are in the belief that statutory law is "the law," and incapable as most people are of thinking beyond the boundaries of the pat truisms rulers throw out to placate the masses ("there can be no freedom without order"), it is difficult for us to conceive of a way out of this impasse.

If "the law" truly is whatever a government says it is, if we do need government in order to hand down these laws from on high and to police itself when it has abused those very laws, then what choice do we have? We must simply put ourselves at the behest of our rulers, hope they will make the right decisions, and hope we will have the firepower (literal or figurative) to resist them should we decide that it is necessary.

However, if we begin to interrogate our own assumptions, it is possible for us to formulate a seemingly equivalent but actually radically different concept of law and order. Yes, there can be no freedom without laws that form a framework for order. That is to say, there can be no freedom without common laws derived from centuries of community experience that form a framework for spontaneous order.

In this apparently slight philosophical adjustment, we begin to see a way to abolish the killing machine of the "law of rule" and to institute a true rule of law.

But as long as we continue to believe our erstwhile rulers' lie that "the law" is whatever they write down on their magical pieces of paper, we will be subject to the current governing paradigm of the planetthe law of ruleand the killing machine to which this law of rule inevitably gives rise.

The choice, as usual, is ours to make. And, as usual, we find that the true battlefield is not the streets of Ottawa but the space between our ears.
UN official says Chinese Juncao technology holds key potential to contribute to achievement of UN SDGs

Xinhua) 08:15, February 27, 2023

Photo taken on May 31, 2022, shows fungi cultivated by a non-governmental organization called "International NGO Centrolive" in Bangui, Central African Republic. (Xinhua/Luo Yu)

The Chinese Juncao technology holds the key potential to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a UN official told Xinhua in a recent interview.

KIGALI, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Juncao technology holds the key potential to contribute to the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a UN official told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Amson Sibanda from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) said that Juncao technology is an effective tool and a simple technology that can be used by everyone, even somebody with limited knowledge of education.

Sibanda spoke with Xinhua at the just concluded African regional workshop on applications of Juncao technology and its contribution to the achievement of sustainable agriculture and the sustainable development goals in Africa in the Rwandan capital of Kigali.

"The technology has a big potential to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals," said Sibanda, who currently serves as the chief of the National Strategies and Capacity Building Branch in the Division for Sustainable Development Goals of UNDESA, adding that the reason why UNDESA is promoting the technology is because of the 2030 agenda of SDGs.

"We believe that the Juncao technology is one of the technological solutions that can be transferred through south-south cooperation to help those countries that want to address the issues of food insecurity, environment challenges and poverty alleviation," he said.

A Chinese expert cultivates fungi with local people in Bangui, Central African Republic, on June 1, 2022. (Xinhua/Luo Yu)

He explained that growing mushrooms using Juncao technology will address food insecurity, generate household income and create employment opportunities for women and youth, calling on African countries and beyond to adopt and implement the technology in the quest for promoting economic development.

"We have seen here in Rwanda how young people have embraced Juncao technology. These young people are very empowered and have big dreams. We wish to see more people across Africa get to know Juncao technology and its benefits," Sibanda said, noting that Juncao technology can protect the environment and address climate change challenges through soil erosion control as well as using Juncao grass to feed livestock.

The knowledge of Juncao technology in producing mushrooms and the use of Juncao grass as a forage for livestock are very important in promoting economic development, said Asimwe L. Rwiguza, director for Grazing Land and Animal Feed Resources in the Tanzanian Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries.

"Juncao technology will help us address the challenge of conflict between crop producers and livestock herders in Tanzania because we are going to increase forage production for livestock using the technology," Rwiguza said, explaining that the conflict is a result of the livestock harming farmers' crop fields due to lack of sufficient fodder.

"We have seen here in Rwanda mushroom products that have been produced using Juncao technology. We have gained that knowledge and we are going to practice it in our country," said Rwiguza.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
People come up to this consultation window, and they kind of just pour their hearts out because they feel like its a safe place here.

Thats how Groton CVS pharmacy manager Janet Mattiucci described the challenges women face in accessing birth control.

And shes right.

The pharmacy is a safe place. A familiar and trusted place. An accessible place.

Access to birth control really is a fundamental right of women.

Thats why Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) and I are co-sponsoring a bill to allow pharmacists to prescribe birth control. As the pandemic has shown, pharmacists play an important role in improving the health of patients by increasing access to care. Pharmacists like Janet Mattiucci are truly on the frontlines of health care, and they do much more than simply fill prescriptions.

They are highly trained health professionals who possess specialized knowledge and expertise in medication management.

They provide a broad spectrum of services through face-to-face counseling, they drive medication adherence, close gaps in care, recommend more cost-effective drug therapies.

They are committed to helping people find solutions that work for them.

They have years of education and experience.

They possess the clinical ability to provide chronic, acute, and preventative services to meet the needs of their patients.

Enabling pharmacists to provide enhanced services recognizes this ability and their practice experience as trusted clinicians as well as providing timely and safe access to contraception.

In my role as ranking senator on the legislatures Public Health Committee, I have dedicated my efforts to protecting and promoting better healthcare access for women. Its not always easy for women in the more rural parts of eastern Connecticut to see a doctor quickly. I represent a diverse district with rural areas in which many women experience barriers to accessing healthcare including limited transportation, long wait times and difficulty scheduling appointments. Often, it is difficult to make an appointment with a primary care physician, particularly for new patients, and there is also a shortage of OB-GYNs in our state. It is critical that contraceptives are readily accessible to women without any unnecessary hurdles or obstacles.

After over 60 years of safe availability, women should have better access to hormonal birth control. It is time to normalize and formalize easy, affordable access to hormonal birth control and close the gap in areas of contraception deserts in our state. In Connecticut, we want women to have full control over their bodies, which includes more options and access to contraception, and this legislative proposal is a concrete step in that direction.

Our bill does not impose any mandates. It simply gives more options, which is why it is supported by those in the medical community. Interested women would receive a health assessment with a pharmacist who has received training and would provide a screening and information on any risks associated with the dispensed prescription. Pharmacists are often available outside of the traditional healthcare hours and in some cases are available 24/7, which increases access for women. A deeper conversation with a physician is always welcomed.

Womens health is not a partisan issue; its a moral issue. I thank the many legislators of both parties as well as the Lamont administration officials that have publicly supported this proposal. Its important to ensure that our communitys health care needs are met, including womens unique needs.

Our proposal eliminates barriers in obtaining birth control. At the same time, it introduces a new health care resource in the form of local pharmacists and enhances their already essential role in increasing womens access to important medical care.

Providing women more choice over their health care decisions along with better access is common-sense policymaking. More than 30 other states have successfully implemented this reform. Connecticut should be the next.

I look forward to the day when we will be able to offer this important service here in Connecticut at that safe place Janet Mattiucci described so well. That day may come later this year if our bill reaches the governors desk.

State Sen. Heather Somers represents the 18th Senate District.
The Covid-19 pandemic most likely originated from a laboratory leak, according to a classified intelligence report from the U.S. Energy Department.

The report, which was included in an update to a 2021 document by Director of National Intelligence Avril Hainess office, was recently provided to the White House and other lawmakers. Sources told the Wall Street Journal that the updated assessment from the Energy Department is the result of new intelligence.

The Energy Department, which oversees a network of U.S. national laboratories, made its judgment with low confidence, the Wall Street Journal reported. The assessment marks a change from 2021, when the department was undecided on how the virus originated.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan responded to the report on Sunday during an appearance on CNNs State of the Union.

Heres what I can tell you. President Biden has directed, repeatedly, every element of our intelligence community to put effort and resources behind getting to the bottom of this question, Sullivan said. If we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress, and we will share it with the American people. But right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question.

A declassified intelligence report released in November 2021 previously revealed that the FBI concluded with moderate confidence that the pandemic began with a laboratory accident following a 90-day review ordered by President Biden.

The FBI still holds this view, according to the report, while four other agencies and the National Intelligence Council assess with low confidence the pandemic was likely caused by natural transmission from an infected animal. Two other agencies, including the CIA, are undecided.

Several virology labs are located in Wuhan, where the pandemic began, including the Wuhan Institute of Virology, where bat coronaviruses were studied.
When calculating the average annual costs (in 2022 prices) of previous wars in which the United States has been involved in, the true magnitude of the countrys Ukraine aid expenditure can be seen.

As Statistas Martin Armstrong shows in the infographic below, the payments to Ukraine have already exceeded the annual military expenditure of the U.S. in the war in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2010. The U.S. military costs in the Vietnam War, the Iraq War and the Korean War were significantly higher  according to calculations by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy as part of its Ukraine Support Tracker.

You will find more infographics at Statista

In the Vietnam and Korean wars, the high usage rate of ammunition and other supplies cost a particularly large amount of money, in addition to the wear and tear of equipment and numerous other assets such as the care of the wounded. Further complicating matters in each case was the great distance to the theater of operations. Although the U.S. maintained a number of bases in Southeast Asia, the large weapons systems and the required replacement components all had to be shipped or flown across the Pacific. In addition, a large fleet of aircraft carriers was always deployed off the coast of Vietnam. The numerous missions of the air force also caused significant costs.

In the U.S., criticism of the scale of military aid to Ukraine is already coming from within the Republican ranks.

Some of the U.S. Republicans in Congress have announced that they intend to block aid to Ukraine.

Nevertheless, the day after his visit to Kyiv, U.S. President Biden underscored his countrys commitment to continued support of the Ukrainian war effort. Speaking in Warsaw, Poland, he said:

This is not just about freedom in Ukraine. Its about freedom of democracy in general.

In addition to the military aid detailed in this infographic, the U.S. has also supplied weapons and equipment worth over $5 billion.
Whoops! Scott Adams is in trouble for expressing dismay that a Rasmussen poll showed that an ultra-minority of African-Americans (47% to be exact) do not think that "It's OK to be White," and therefore insisting that White people should consider "moving away from them."

No violence. No armed revolt. No "supremacy" this and that. No racial slurs expressed. While only removing some of his emotive profanities, just consider moving away.

"Moving away" is an action as peaceful and inoffensive to the natural order of things as when Black Americans had a well conceived notion that a better life awaited them  outside the Jim Crow south  with higher-paying factory jobs in the north.

Second-class citizenship, poor economic prospects, or feeling deeply disliked by many of your neighbors for your immutable characteristics  like ethnicity or skin color  can be powerful motivators to switch geographical locations.

After all, if we are to truly believe this Rasmussen poll results at face value, isn't "moving away" a logical response to the realization that nearly half of a specific group of people may not even be "OK" with your existence? A "hate group" as such?

Well, no. Not if you are an American of European extraction. That's racist.

The "Dilbert" Fallout

As the ChatGPT-grilling website "AI Wokeness" expressed in a recent article, there isn't much turning back when today's dogma dictates that you are now that pinnacle of persona non grata in the United States.

To be labeled a "racist" is a branding so foul, you shouldn't even be trusted with telling people that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road. (Yes, that's how serious the modern tar-and-feathering goes with a sufficient amount of woke programming.)

And now the "racist" Scott Adams  for daring to suggest that White people should "move away" from African-Americans for what should indeed be troubling poll results  is experiencing his three-decades-and-running comic strip "Dilbert" being removed from prominent national newspapers.

He'll more than likely never be invited back on any number of television stations and podcasts, among other marketing platforms and sources of revenue.

Mr. Adams can  thankfully  weather the storm, financially speaking. He is 65 years old and independently wealthy from decades' worth of his past endeavors. But for a young cartoonist who was new and yet successful in the trade, this would be life-altering fallout

As The Spectator pointed out in a somewhat recent article, free speech has become a privilege only for the rich. The poor or middle class cannot afford not to self-cancel.

The takeaway from this whole story is another prime example of an objective truth in the Anglosphere: if you lack the sufficient number of victim points  of which the straight, White, male, Christian or non-affiliated, native English-speaking, able-bodied, non-immigrant and "cisgender" Scott Adams has none  your margin for error to survive speaking against any far-left social agenda dwindles toward almost nothing.

What the pundits on CNN and MSNBC have said about White men  while continuing to keep their corporate jobs  has been atrocious compared to what Mr. Adams said.

Hamish Carter is a New Zealander in exile from Jacinda Ardern's tyrannical government, living through unprecedented gun control in his home country along with the travesty of not being able to return home during the pandemic.

If you believe in the "Streisand effect," support the now canceled Scott Adams by purchasing some "Dilbert" comic strips from Amazon.
Twitter CEO Elon Musk on Sunday said the media is "racist against whites" after seeing how Dilbert creator Scott Adam was "canceled" for going on a viral rant about black crime and anti-white racism.



"The media is racist," Musk said. "For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now they're racist against whites & Asians. Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America. Maybe they can try not being racist."





The media is racist  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023

For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now theyre racist against whites & Asians.



Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America.



Maybe they can try not being racist.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023



Musk also said the media disproportionately covers stories of black victimization "to promote a false narrative."



Musk also chimed in on another thread to say it was "interesting" how the media became obsessed with "racism" with the Great Awokening.





Very disproportionate to promote a false narrative  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023

Interesting  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023

Now lets see a chart of the number of media mentions of race. I know that data is really hard to get. But what I am getting at is the media stirs up trouble!  Brian Aroniss (@WolfofLevittown) February 26, 2023

I got cancelled for agreeing with this group of Black people.



I don't mean to ruin anyone's fun today, but I was already aware Black people have wildly diverse opinions. Were you? https://t.co/yU2exeWeQP  Scott Adams (@ScottAdamsSays) February 26, 2023

!!  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 26, 2023



Adams was canceled by Gannett, the largest American newspaper publisher, the Boston Globe, the Los Angeles Times and the Washington Post over his viral rant.





[Embed starts at 13:21]





Has anyone checked the price of free speech lately? Its worse than eggs.  Scott Adams (@ScottAdamsSays) February 25, 2023



Gannett joined other media conglomerates in 2020 amid the George Floyd riots by announcing they were no longer going to be posting accused criminals mugshots because they "may feed into negative stereotypes."



The media is happy to blame all white people for one cop allegedly being responsible for the death of George Floyd and they're happy to blame all white people for one white lynch mob that killed Emmett Till 68 years ago but when a black person kills a white person race is not an issue and the story must be ignored.



The media is so desperate to portray whites as oppressors they'll even blame them when five black cops beat a black suspect to death as we saw with Tyre Nichols.







The media now boasts about their open anti-white bias. Last month, a collection of major media outlets announced they're abandoning "objectivity" because it's "a distortion of reality" that was "dictated over decades by male editors in predominantly White newsrooms and reinforced their own view of the world."







They're allowed to push total fantasies about the nature of crime in America and we're not supposed to notice.



When we see video of a 6'6" 270 pound black teenager beating the hell out of a white teacher for taking away his Nintendo Switch we're supposed to blame the teacher for being part of a "system of oppression."





On Tuesday 2/21/23 a black 66 270 pound student attacked a white teacher at Matanzas High School for taking away his Nintendo Switch during class. The student is seen kicking and punching the unconscious woman in the back and head around 15 times. When the student was escorted https://t.co/hYXkKgi0mG pic.twitter.com/9RqozolFBZ  Tom Hennessy (@Tomhennessey69) February 23, 2023



When we see video of a 12-year-old white boy being strangled by a large black girl on a school bus in Virginia, we're supposed to think: "But what about Emmett Till?!?!"







As Scott Adam's rant proved, Americans are sick and tired of being gaslighted and want real solutions to the crime epidemic our corrupt overlords have intentionally spawned.





Has anyone else been canceled while literally no one disagreed with them?



My critics don't disagree with my advice (seen in context). They are justifiably angry that it is rational. I am too.



Wait until that realization sinks in toward the end of Act Three.  Scott Adams (@ScottAdamsSays) February 26, 2023



Follow InformationLiberation on Twitter, Facebook, Gab, Minds and Telegram.




The progressive media is, not surprisingly, furious, accusing Harrelson of not only spreading a "conspiracy theory" but being high with the Rolling Sone's Marlow Stern claiming he was "apparently under the influence."

Yes, Woody Harrelson went full anti-vax conspiracy theorist during his SNL Monologue tonight https://t.co/rmwm6JIsYh  Marlow Stern (@MarlowNYC) February 26, 2023

The same Rolling Stone, of course, which was caught in that whole Ivermectin fabrication-cum-retraction...

That's the same reason the hard-core Dem Party media loyalists, led as usual by @Maddow, spread this fake story all over based on what appears to be a fraudulent source without checking. Fake News is 100% acceptable if done with good political motives:https://t.co/lzAXAHKrfN  Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) September 5, 2021

As if given a green light by the Pfizer C-Suite, the leftist pile-up began...

Still, the trend of celebrities and mainstream figures coming out in opposition to the draconian covid restrictions is growing along with skepticism about the vaccines, though, the starved for ratings and pro-establishment SNL is probably the last place we would expect to see such voices given a "platform." Unless, of course, this was just a marketing ploy to end the viewership bleeding...

Woody Harrelson's monologue! pic.twitter.com/FAEcBDnIKu  Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) February 26, 2023

And while the old media - a melting ice cube still generously funded by ads from companies such as, oh, Pfizer - is losing its mind, Twitter owner Elon Musk had a clear and sobering reaction to the monologue.
Seth & Nirva - Armor | Turning Point Media Relations

NASHVILLE, Tenn.Following a three-year recording hiatus, acclaimed husband/wife duo Seth & Nirva have made their long-awaited return to music with the compelling new single Armor. The debut track from the couple's forthcoming EP, Armor was penned by Seth & Nirva and produced by Willie Weeks. The song tackles fear, anxiety and depression head-on, reminding Believers to Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devils schemes (Ephesians 6:11).



I am praying that this song encourages us to remember who we are and Whose we are, Nirva Ready says. God has not abandoned us, nor has He left us powerless. We have His word, His presence, and every spiritual weapon we need tolike Davidstand in the battle and face down Goliath. Whether we are battling false ideas in our own minds or in the public square, we can be victorious through Christ who strengthens us.



Armor is accompanied by a newly released music video which was written, directed and produced by Washington, DC-based filmmaker Kennard Blackwell. Starring martial artist and actress Jackie SJ Kim, the cinematic clip depicts a powerful juxtaposition of heavenly and earthly realities.



When we approached him about the video, Kennard had been reading C.S. Lewis The Chronicles of Narnia to his daughter, so that series provided much of the inspiration for the Armor visual, Seth Ready shares. Throughout the video, a young lady receives anonymous notes containing false statements about her which are increasingly pointing her to destruction. We soon find out that there are dark figures (the Enemy) behind the notes. In contrast, Nirva and I are shown as heavenly messengers encouraging the young lady to put on the armor of God to overcome these dark figures and the lies they are telling her. She eventually does just that and is victorious over the Enemy.

Seth & Nirva - "Armor" Official Music Video

Now based in Virginia, where Nirva Ready serves as an instructor at Liberty University, the couple also continue to co-host the Freemind Podcast. Since its launch in 2018, the podcast has released more than 100 episodes addressing cultural hot-button issues from a biblical perspective. Featured guests have included pro-life advocate Abby Johnson; author, speaker and Moody Bible Institute professor Dr. Christopher Yuan; author, speaker and former atheist Mary Jo Sharp; and John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, among numerous others.

Known for delivering worshipful, vertical songs that blend pop, neo-soul and gospel influences, Seth & Nirva are each extraordinary artists in their own right. Nirva was a vocalist in TobyMacs Diverse City Band for over a decade, while Seth served as a backing vocalist for some of Christian musics leading names, including Kirk Franklin, Chris Tomlin, Donnie McClurkin and CeCe Winans. The duos 2014 debut, I Need You, was followed by 2016s Never Alone. The latter project is highlighted by the racial reconciliation anthem Brother (feat. TobyMac), its message continuing to open doors for the couple to sing and speak on the subject at churches and conferences throughout the US and abroad. In 2020, Seth & Nirva released One Voice, a 13-track collection of music and spoken-word vignettes further addressing such topics as racial reconciliation and apologetics.

For more information, visit turningpointpr.com or sethandnirva.com and follow the duo on Instagram.


Bulk carriers bound for ports in China have begun returning to one of the eastern seaboards largest coal terminals, in the latest sign Beijings unofficial two-year ban on Australian shipments of the fossil fuel is easing.

After China permitted three state-owned power utilities and a steelmaker to source coal from Australia again earlier this year, expectations have been building across the mining industry that a complete lifting of the ban is possible within weeks.

Coal miners are cautiously optimistic that Beijing could be preparing to lift its unofficial two-year ban on Australian coal. Credit: Glenn Hunt

There are early signs that the informal ban on Australian coal imports to China may be in the process of being removed, Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure, the ASX-listed owner of Queenslands busiest metallurgical coal port, said on Monday.

A deterioration of diplomatic ties between Australia and its biggest trading partner in 2020 led to China slapping hefty tariffs on a range of Australian goods, including wine and barley, while an outright ban on Australian coal left dozens of vessels stranded off the coast unable to dock.
David Schlieper, who runs a benchtop stone business in Melbourne called Cutting Edge Stone, said he had been using wet-cutting techniques and supplying personal protective equipment to staff for more than 20 years. Loading As long as youve got the right practices in place by using wet cutting, water-jet saws, and CNC saws, theres no issues, Schlieper said. Its just a matter of how you set your factory up and if you have the right PPE for your workers. We use disposable overalls every day. Schlieper installs about 750 benchtops each year under Victorias new licence system, mainly in residential kitchens. Introduced in 2019, it requires all businesses working with engineered stone to be regulated, and bans uncontrolled dry-cutting, grinding or polishing of engineered stone, and prohibits the use of compressed air for cleaning and untreated water to suppress dust.

Engineered stone generally has a higher silica content (up to 95 per cent) than natural stones such as marble and granite or other common materials such as concrete and cement, which have silica levels between 20 per cent and 60 per cent. The engineered stone has been linked with silicosis in workers. Schlieper said a ban on materials containing up to 95 per cent silica was reasonable, but that a broader ban on engineered stone is misguided as it doesnt deal with natural stone, concrete and cement, which are often ground or cut dry. Engineered stone generally has a higher silica content than natural stones, such as marble and granite, or other common materials, such as concrete and cement. Credit: Eddie Jim A better solution is to introduce a well-regulated national licence covering all types of stone and concrete use. That licence should be across the board. It doesnt matter what stone youre cutting because you still need the same processes in place. Everything should be wet cut. A ban on engineered stone products will have a large impact on Cutting Edges business. About 80 per cent of customers buy benchtops made from engineered materials which, unlike natural stone benchtops, are generally maintenance free, non-porous and dont stain, he said.

How could you ban a reconstituted stone thats only got say 40 per cent silica in it and leave a natural stone thats got 50 per cent? It doesnt make sense, Schlieper said. Loading Mark Norman, general manager of natural and engineered stone distributor WK-Quantum Quartz  which operates across NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia  also called for a national licensing scheme, saying that tighter regulations in Victoria helped to oust companies doing the wrong thing. The industry in Victoria wasnt regulated before, but it is now, which has forced the dodgy fabricators out, he said. Most companies did the right thing, but some werent following the correct, well-documented work practices. Victoria got on the bandwagon, but we urgently need licensing around the country. Norman said natural stone also contained silica, and that a ban on engineered stone would fail to address the unsafe work practices causing silicosis in workers.

Whether its low-silica content materials or natural stone, companies have to make sure their workers are following safe practices such as wet-cutting and wearing respirators, he said. Norman said banning high-silica materials may leave the door open for unlicensed companies to sidestep SafeWork requirements and use low-silica materials instead. When people follow safe processes all material containing crystalline silica are safe. Businesses in the property space also said they followed strict guidelines. Tarun Gupta, chief executive of property development company Stockland, said customers chose the materials used when constructing their homes, but the firm had a policy to manage the risk from crystalline silica.

Across our platform for a number of years now, our policy is that no stone should be cut on site, Gupta said. They need to be prefabricated safely from the factories when they come and then just assembled safely on site. And any product we create is in accordance with those guidelines because that is the best way they can be managed. Loading A spokesperson for property group Mirvac also said materials were processed off-site. Mirvac implements stringent safety standards and requirements for the handling of materials on our projects, they said. These include prioritising off-site manufacturing and the processing of materials in controlled environments. We continue to work with industry bodies and experts to ensure the safe handling of materials on our sites. Jennifer Low, director of health, safety, resilience and digital policy at the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the organisation would work with government to address the issue.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission is suing Noumi (formerly Freedom Foods) and two former top executives who exited the company days before it unveiled a multimillion-dollar company writedown that brought the Milklab manufacturer to its knees and forced a continuing business turnaround.

The corporate watchdog alleges that former Noumi chief executive Rory Macleod and former chief financial officer Campbell Nicholas were involved in providing misleading information about the companys financial position, breaching director and officer duties and failing disclosure obligations by doing so. Noumi produces plant-based beverages Milklab and Australias Own.

Former Freedom Foods chief executive Rory Macleod will face the Federal Court. Credit: Peter Braig

The share price of Noumi, named as one of three respondents in the Federal Court proceeding, has seesawed today, plummeting nearly 15 per cent in early morning trading before lifting back into the green and then swinging back down 7.4 per cent in afternoon trading. It closed the day unchanged at 13.5 cents.

ASICs move to take the company, Macleod and Nicholas to court comes after a lengthy investigation that began in July 2020, sparked by the sudden resignations of then-CFO Nicholas on June 30 followed by then-CEO Macleod the following morning. ASX trading was suspended and shares dipped to a five-year low.
Indian national Mohamed Rahmathullah Syed Ahmed has been identified by the Consulate General of India as the man who was fatally shot by police on Tuesday.

Detectives are investigating whether mental health played a part in the death of Syed Ahmed who they say stabbed a cleaner, then threatened officers with a knife before being fatally shot by police.

Police said the 32-year-old man attacked the 28-year-old cleaner at Auburn train station in Sydneys west at 12.03am on Tuesday before arriving at Auburn police station about five minutes later.

The attacker was from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and was living in Auburn on a bridging visa.
A serial arsonist has been jailed for nine years in Queensland for an eight-hour spree that culminated in setting fire to an apartment building full of people.

Sean Douglas Broom, 52, faced Brisbane District Court on Monday having earlier pleaded guilty to two counts each of arson, endangering property by fire and entering a dwelling at night with intent to damage property, as well as one count of entering a premises with intent.

The man started several fires in Highgate Hill and West End. Credit: Warwick Vere/Facebook

Broom was released from jail on August 11, 2020, having served eight years for arson offences and the next day, which was his 50th birthday, he was recorded on security cameras at 3pm buying a lighter from a convenience store in the inner-southern Brisbane suburb of West End.

Over the next few hours Broom set fire to a nearby pile of plastic and wooden pallets before moving to the neighbouring suburb of Highgate Hill and lighting up a cardboard box underneath one house and a painters drop sheet inside another house.
The recorded number of university enrolments among young people who have lived in out-of-home care has increased from fewer than 50 to almost 700 in just eight years.

The extraordinary rise is being attributed to two key reforms: extending the eligibility for out-of-home care in Victoria, and giving VCE students in care access to a special entry access scheme when applying for university.

Marcelle Parrot, a third-year law and arts student at La Trobe University, is one of almost 700 young people in higher education in Victoria who experienced living in out-of-home care as a child. Credit: Simon Schluter

More than 12,800 children and young people were in out-of-home care in Victoria in 2020-21, according to data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Most of those children do not find a stable place to live, with a 2020 review by the Commission for Children and Young People finding that 61 per cent experienced five or more placements while in care.
An African American man who was the first person tried and acquitted for the Eureka Rebellion and who was buried in an unmarked grave was memorialised in central Victoria on Monday.

The US ambassador to Australia, Caroline Kennedy, unveiled a plaque at White Hills Cemetery in Bendigo to honour John Josephs life.

An illustration depcting John Joseph (sixth from right), one of the 13 men charged with treason for their part in the Eureka Rebellion. Credit: Samuel Calvert

Joseph was the first of the 13 Eureka Stockade leaders put on trial, facing a charge of high treason after he was accused of firing the first shot which killed Captain Henry Wise, according to The Herald in 1889.

After miners in Ballarat became disgruntled by exorbitant licence fees imposed by the colonial government, protests erupted on the diggings in 1854, culminating in the Eureka Rebellion. Twenty-two diggers and six soldiers were killed.
John Barilaro inappropriately interfered with the appointment of the states UK agent-general when he was deputy premier, personally soliciting Stephen Cartwright for the lucrative role that resulted in a poor financial outcome for NSW.

An upper house inquiry made the damning findings in its final report examining the recruitment of NSW senior trade and investment commissioners, condemning the process as flawed.

John Barilaro at the inquiry into his trade commissioner appointment in August. Credit: Kate Geraghty

The opposition and crossbench-led probe described a lack of integrity and transparency, and found ministers had an inappropriate influence over at least two trade positions, including that of Cartwright, the former head of the Business NSW lobby group.

The inquiry last year was triggered by Barilaros own recruitment in June to a plum New York role, from which he was forced to withdraw amid public scrutiny and backlash from his former colleagues.
London: Britain and the European Union have struck a deal aimed at resolving the Brexit hangover created over trading rules for Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland is part of the UK but, under the Good Friday Agreement, there should not be a hard border between the country and the Republic of Ireland, which is part of the EU.

British PM Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announce the deal. Credit: Bloomberg

The question of the best way to resolve trading arrangements and satisfy the various political parties in Belfast has been a key sticking point of the bitter Brexit fallout. The issue was catered for by the Northern Ireland Protocol, which was struck by former prime minister and Vote Leave proponent Boris Johnson.

Under the new Windsor Framework, the UK has secured green and red lanes for goods arriving by port, allowing products like plants, medicines and groceries destined only for Northern Ireland to travel across the border with no certification or customs forms required.
London: Former attorney-general and high commissioner to the UK George Brandis says there is no excuse for Australia failing to return its ambassador to Ukraine.

Australia is isolated among its allies for not restoring its diplomatic presence in Kyiv, which was withdrawn in the days leading up to Vladimir Putins invasion a year ago.

As of February, 67 of the 81 diplomatic missions that closed at the start of the war have reopened in a show of solidarity with Ukraine.

On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a 2-hour news conference to mark the one-year anniversary of the war, urged Australia to return.
Some of our commentators were endorsing it, Murdoch said while being questioned under oath in a $US1.6 billion ($2.4 billion) suit by Dominion Voting Systems, according to excerpts included in a court filing on Monday (US time).

Washington: Fox Corp chairman Rupert Murdoch testified that the TV networks popular commentators endorsed Donald Trumps conspiracy theory about the 2020 presidential election, even though Murdoch said he doubted the claim, according to a filing in a defamation lawsuit.

Fox News is accused of helping to promote false claims that the voting-machine maker flipped millions of votes away from Trump. Murdochs testimony was disclosed by Dominion in its fight against a request by Fox to get a judge to throw out the lawsuit.

Rupert Murdoch and then US president Donald Trump embrace at a function in 2017. Credit: The New York Times

Documents in the case in Delaware State Court show Murdoch and other Fox executives believed Joe Biden fairly beat Donald Trump and that the results were not in doubt.

A five-week trial is scheduled to begin on April 17.

Murdochs testimony is part of his deposition in the lawsuit, the entirety of which Reuters has not viewed because it remains under seal.
"We understand that the company needs to acquire mines to grow its business, but that should not be done through a cash acquisition. There are these options which the company can exercise. The government is a stakeholder in the company and has the right to cash reserves, and we will not let them use it for a related-party transaction," an official aware of the development told Mint.

Centre may ask Hindustan Zinc Ltd (HZL) to consider options, other than cash, like share swaps, rights issues or warrants for the $2.98 billion acquisition of Vedanta's zinc assets, a report by Mint said. The Centre believes that the cash reserves must not be used for the party-related transaction.


The Government of India has to immediately decide on sanction for attachment of DMRC's operational assets (to satisfy the award) and bring the said papers for the perusal of the Court by the next hearing on March 2 at 2:15 pm, Justice Yashwant Varma said. The Delhi High Court on Monday asked the Centre to decide whether it proposes to attach movable and immovable assets of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for the paying of the arbitral award to Reliance Infrastructures arm-Delhi Metro Express Private Limited (DAMEPL).



The Court asked the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi(GNCTD) counsel to come back with its stance on helping DMRC arrange funds to satisfy the award. The court also made it clear that if the Centre refused the sanction, it has to disclose the reasons for the same, so that the Court could take a view thereon.



The court said if it decides to peep behind the veil, it will not just be the Union, but also the GNCTD. When the Centre said that a shareholder is not liable for the company's liabilities, the Court said that it could then take a narrow view on the attachment of DMRC's accounts including salary accounts. We have to dispose of the matter before March 14 as directed by the Supreme Court. If you(the Union government) throw an impasse, it compels us to become innovative and inventive, the Court said.

Also Read After SC rap, DMRC launches Rs 7,100 crore rights issue for RInfra dues Delhi HC fixes Feb 13 for next hearing in DMRC-DAMEPL case, may pass order Widening scope, aim to be a key player in urban infra space: DMRC MD Reliance Infra moves SC against DMRC for payment of Rs 4,500 crore Budget 2023 to increase capex for infra projects for growth: Experts Zee Ent to move out of IBC framework, include back into F&O segment: NSE SpiceJet debt recast: Carlyle Aviation to pick up 7.5% stake in airline Air India's premium avatar by mid-2024; Maharaja stays: CEO Wilson Nine Adani firms end lower; group's combined mcap falls to Rs 6.81 trn Infosys starts pvt 5G-as-a-Service to drive business value for enterprises



Background The High Court was hearing the execution petition filed by DAMEPL against the DMRC over the arbitration award passed in its favour on May 11, 2017.



Earlier this month, the court had noted the total amount of the award with interest till February 14, 2022, was Rs 8009.38 crore. Out of this, a sum of Rs 1678.42 crore has been paid so far by the DMRC and Rs 6330.96 crore is still due to be paid. An arbitral tribunal had ruled in favour of DAMEPL, which had pulled out of running the Airport Express metro line over safety issues, and accepted its claim that running the operations on the line was not viable due to structural defects in the viaduct through which the train would pass.



During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, representing the Centre, said admittedly, the union government was not a party to the arbitration between DMRC and DAMEPL. On February 17, the high court issued notices to the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Delhi government, the two essential stakeholders in the DMRC, to apprise it of how the unpaid arbitral award will be paid. The two governments were impleaded as parties in the execution proceedings.

The judge said as per the order of the Supreme Court, he has to complete all proceedings in this petition before March 15. He said the Central government is a 50 per cent equity shareholder in the DMRC and it has no liability to pay the decretal amount in law.



DMRC had informed the high court that despite making requisite efforts, the two stakeholders have been unable to arrive at a consensus on the ways and means by which the amount payable under the award may be liquidated. Earlier, the high court had asked the Centre and AAP government to endeavour to speedily resolve the impasse over the unpaid arbitral award, saying there was a need to protect the Delhi Metro which constitutes the lifeline for the residents of the national capital.



It had said though this step of interest-free subordinate debt lay more financial burden on the Delhi Metro, the less bothersome option of issue of equity shares which was explored earlier failed to materialise. In January, the DMRC had told the court it had requested the Centre and the city government for paying over Rs 3,500 crore each as interest-free subordinate debt for repayment of the unpaid arbitral award.



The DMRC had informed the court that meetings were held with the Centre, Delhi government and other stakeholders to discuss the modalities for payment of the balance arbitral award to DAMEPL. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for DAMEPL, had said the court would be justified in lifting the corporate veil of the corporation and proceeding further against the stakeholders for the execution of the award which undisputedly has attained finality.



On March 10 last year, the high court directed the DMRC to pay the over Rs 4,600 crore arbitral award along with interest to DAMEPL in two equal installments within two months. The metro rail had said if any adverse orders were passed against it at this point, millions of commuters will be simply told they cannot use the Delhi Metro.

The first and second installments were to be paid on or before April 30, 2022, and May 31, 2022, respectively.


In this section

High milk prices likely to continue till October: Mother Dairy MD

FPI flows will get better only in medium to long term: Kotak AMC president

RIL will give us scale, can negotiate better with suppliers: METRO MD & CEO

Q3 results in line with expectations, banks only outliers: Anand Shah

We will look at a wider spectrum of Green economy companies: Renuka Ramnath

New REIT, InvIT regime spells higher taxation for sovereign funds

Not REITs to riches for investors as the near-term headwinds blow

Residential real estate sales to lag commercial in FY23: CRISIL

Experts see 2023 as a year of smooth sailing for real estate sector

Recently, Ivanhoe Cambridge, the real estate subsidiary of Canadas second-largest pension fund Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec (CDPQ) and Singaporean investor Mapletree announced a Rs 15,400-crore partnership to develop, own, and operate technology-focused office spaces in the country., managing director, India, Asia-Pacific, of Ivanhoe, in conversation with Raghavendra Kamath, talks about the investors new ventures and strategy for the Indian market.

We believe that the long-term trends for technology and innovation-focused workplaces remain intact. With the development of secondary cap

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The $1.3-trillion fund announced earlier this month that it had completely exited Adani Group companies, citing concerns over environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks, among other reasons. The Adani Group had also faced allegations of stock manipulation and accounting fraud from US-based short seller Hindenburg Research, whose report has caused a Rs 12.4-trillion fall in the valuation of Adani Group companies. The group has denied any wrongdoing. Norways Government Pension Fund Global, one of the worlds largest sovereign wealth funds, raised its bets on Reliance group companies even as it began to exit Adani Group stocks.



The fixed income documents showed that it had entirely sold its investment in Adani Group companies by December-end. It had holdings of $12.7 million in Adani Electricity Mumbai as of the end of 2021. The Government Pension Fund Global had raised holdings in Mukesh Ambani group companies by $180.5 million in 2022, shows an analysis of fund documents of the latest holdings as of December 2022.



It declined to comment further on investment decisions in relation to the Adani or Ambani groups. This may have been part of a larger paring down of fixed income investments in India. It reduced its holdings of government securities by $264 million. It also cut down its investment in Reliance Industries (RIL) bonds by $34.5 million to $37.8 million as of December 2022. The RIL bonds have been classified as government-related bonds. The fund said that this was due to the bonds being guaranteed by the government of India, in response to a query by Business Standard.

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The sovereign wealth fund has significantly increased its bets on Indian equities since the pandemics outbreak. It held 317 equity investments worth $9.4 billion at the end of 2019. The first case of Covid-19 in India was detected in January 2020. The total number of investments has risen to 416 and the value has risen nearly 87.7 per cent to $17.7 billion. The increase in Ambani investments was not limited to RIL. The overall bets increased in at least four group companies. Their ownership stake in Network18 Media and Investments rose from 1.38 per cent at 2021-end to 1.87 per cent at 2022-end. The stake in RIL increased from 0.67 per cent to 0.79 per cent, Just Dial from 0.06 per cent to 0.16 per cent, and TV18 Broadcast from 3.27 per cent to 3.28 per cent.



The Norway sovereign wealth fund has exited a number of companies over time citing concerns over ESG risks. The Ambani and Adani groups did not respond to a request for comment.
Vodafone Idea Ltd (VIL) on Monday said it has allotted 12,000 optionally convertible debentures to ATC Telecom Infrastructure.

The balance 4,000 debentures will be allotted on receipt of application form and subscription money and due intimation of the same shall be filed as necessary, according to a regulatory filing.

"... it is hereby informed that the capital raising committee of the Board of Directors of Vodafone Idea Limited has, at its meetings held today that is 27 February, 2023, allotted a total of 12,000 number of unsecured, unrated and unlisted Optionally Convertible Debentures of the face value of Rs 10,00,000 each (OCDs) to ATC Telecom Infrastructure Private Limited," it said.

On February 25, VIL's shareholders approved the preferential issuance of up to Rs 1,600 crore of OCDs to American Tower Corp (ATC).

In this regard, the special resolution was cleared at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) of Vodafone Idea held last week.

According to the voting results, overall 99.99 per cent of the votes were in favour of the resolution, which pertained to issue of optionally convertible debentures of up to Rs 1,600 crore to ATC.


Anurag Katriar, the founder of Indigo Hospitality, which runs Indigo Deli and Neel restaurants, told ET, "Various restaurant chains have been approached in multiple cities including Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata by Zomato to increase commissions. It is being done selectively, so far, and industry associations will be discussing this with the aggregator." Amid widening losses and a fall in profitability, Zomato has approached several restaurant chains seeking a rise of 2-6 per cent in commissions, a report by the Economic Times (ET) said. The restaurant operators have, however, refused to accept the hike.



For the past two years, Zomato has been charging 18-25 per cent commission per order for deliveries. Swiggy charges a higher commission and this is being seen as Zomato's attempt to be at par with it. However, experts believe that it would impact the food chains' unit economics. "This is happening for a week now. Some of us have been told we could be delisted, our delivery radius could be reduced, or visibility could be lowered on the platform if we don't adhere to their demand. We have not agreed," an executive at a national restaurant chain told ET.



Experts added that a gradual increase in the commission might lead to an easier transition. "It is good to see Zomato's focus on unit-level profitability, but this might disturb the unit economics of restaurants drastically," Karan Tanna, founder and chief executive of food tech company Ghost Kitchens told ET.

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In the quarter ending December 2022, Zomato reported a net loss of Rs 347 crore. It was Rs 63.2 crore higher than in the same quarter a year earlier. The company's CEO Deepinder Goyal said that the slowdown was due to "a few temporary factors".
(DC file photo)

New Delhi: The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) on Monday set May 3 as the deadline for subscribers to opt for a higher pension.

The Supreme Court on November 4 allowed another change for employees who were existing EPS members as on September 1, 2014, to contribute up to 8.33 per cent of their actual salaries - as against 8.33 per cent of pensionable salary capped at Rs 15,000 a month - towards pension.

The apex court gave a four-month window to enable opting for higher pensions. The deadline accordingly should have been around March 3, 2023, but EPFO only last week came out with the procedure for opting for higher pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS).

"The joint option for employees who were in service prior to September 1, 2014, and continued to be in service on or after September 1, 2014, but could not exercise joint option under the Employees' Pension Scheme can do so now on or before May 3, 2023," EPFO said on its website.

At present, both employees and employers contribute 12 per cent of the employee's basic salary, dearness allowance and retaining allowance, if any, to the employee provident fund or EPF.

The employee's entire contribution goes to EPF while the 12 per cent contribution by the employer is split as 3.67 per cent to EPF and 8.33 per cent to EPS.

The Government of India contributes 1.16 per cent to an employee's pension, while employees do not contribute to the pension scheme.

EPFO said, "online facility for filing joint option is coming soon".

Earlier, there were apprehensions that March 3, 2023, will be the last date for opting for a higher pension.

Last week, EPFO came out with a procedure to enable subscribers and their employers to jointly apply for a higher pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS).

In November 2022, the Supreme Court upheld the Employees' Pension (Amendment) Scheme 2014. The EPS amendment of August 22, 2014, had raised the pensionable salary cap to Rs 15,000 a month from Rs 6,500 a month and allowed members along with their employers to contribute 8.33 per cent of their actual salaries (if it exceeded the cap) towards EPS.

In an office order, EPFO had provided for dealing with the ''Joint Option Form'' by field offices of the body. EPFO stated that "a facility will be provided for which URL (Unique Resource Location) will be informed shortly. Once received, the regional PF commissioner shall put an adequate notice on the notice board and banners for wider public information".

It provided that each application will be registered, digitally logged and the receipt number will be provided to the applicant. Further, it stated that the office in-charge of the regional provident fund office concerned shall examine each case of joint option on higher salary and intimate the decision to the applicant through e-mail/post and later through SMS also.

EPFO also said that any grievance by the applicant can be registered on EPFiGMS (grievance portal) after submission of his/her joint option form and payment of due contributions, if any.

The order stated that these directions are being issued in compliance with the order of Supreme Court on November 4, 2022. EPFO has asked its field offices to provide an option for higher pension to eligible subscribers in accordance with the Supreme Court order.

According to the EPFO circular on December 29, 2022, the central government has directed to implement the directions in the order. The apex court had given all EPS members as on September 1, 2014, six months to opt for the amended scheme.

The apex court in its order gave four more months to eligible subscribers to opt for higher pension under EPS-95.

The court had also struck down the requirement in the 2014 amendments mandating employee contribution of 1.16 per cent of the salary exceeding Rs 15,000 per month. This will facilitate the subscribers to contribute higher to the scheme and get enhanced benefits accordingly.

The EPFO circular had also provided for the higher pension option for those eligible subscribers who either contributed on actual wages higher than Rs 5,000 or Rs 6,500 per month prevalent threshold pensionable salary or exercised their option for higher pension or their request for higher pension was declined by EPFO authorities before the amendment to EPS-95 in 2014.

The eligible subscribers would have to apply jointly with their employer for the enhanced benefit in the application form prescribed by the commissioner and all other required documents like joint declaration etc.
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake shook southern Turkiye on Monday three weeks after a catastrophic temblor devastated the region causing some already damaged buildings to collapse and killing at least one person, the country's disaster management agency, AFAD, said.

Another 69 people were injured as a result of the earthquake which was centred in the town of Yesilyurt in Malatya province, AFAD's chief Yunus Sezer told reporters.

More than two dozen buildings collapsed.

Yesilyurt's mayor, Mehmet Cinar, told HaberTurk television that a father and daughter were trapped beneath the rubble of a four-story building in the town. The pair had entered the damaged building to collect belongings.

Elsewhere in Malatya, search-and-rescue teams were sifting through the rubble of two damaged buildings that toppled on top of some parked cars, HaberTurk reported.

Malatya was among 11 Turkish provinces hit by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that devastated parts of southern Turkiye and northern Syria on February 6.

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That quake led to more than 48,000 deaths in both countries as well as the collapse or serious damage of 173,000 buildings in Turkiye.

AFAD's chief urged people not to enter damaged buildings saying strong aftershocks continue to pose a risk. Close to 10,000 aftershocks have hit the region affected by the quake since February 6.
In the wake of a consistent drop in the onion prices, angry farmers stopped the auction of the key kitchen staple on Monday at Maharashtra's Lasalgaon Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC), Asia's biggest onion market.

The price per kilogram of onion came down to Rs 2 to Rs 4, which angered the growers.

A representative of the onion growers said the government should immediately declare a grant of Rs 1,500 per quintal of onions and purchase their produce at Rs 15 to Rs 20 per kg, or else they will not let the auction resume at the Lasalgaon APMC, located in Nashik district.

As soon as the auction process began as the market opened for the week on Monday, onions fetched a minimum price of Rs 200 per quintal, the maximum rate of Rs 800 per quintal and an average price of Rs 400-450 per quintal.

As a result, the angry farmers led by the Maharashtra Rajya Kanda Utpadak Sanghatana stopped the auction of onions and started an agitation.

On Saturday 2,404 quintal onions arrived at the APMC and the prices were Rs 351 minimum, Rs 1,231 maximum and Rs 625 average per quintal.

Also Read WPL auction: Smriti Mandhana goes to Royal Challengers for Rs 3.4 cr IPL 2023 Auction: Here's a look at which team retained, released whom IPL Mini Auction 2023: Five players who will rake in the moolah in Kochi IPL Auction 2023: Slots to fill, purse remaining of each team before D-Day Onion prices soar, shortage threatens a new chapter in world food crisis AAP holds protests, top leadership slams BJP over Sisodia's arrest Delhi court summons Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi in land-for-job scam Japan to provide loans worth Rs 2,288 crore for two projects in India French electronics giant Thales to hire over 550 Indian engineers First PU exams postponed due to PM's road show in Belagavi, Karnataka

During the ongoing Budget Session of the state legislature, the government should immediately declare Rs 1,500 per quintal grant for onions and purchase the produce, being currently sold for Rs 3,4, 5 per kg, at a price of Rs 15 to Rs 20 per kg. If these two demands are not met today, onion auction at Lasalgaon APMC will not start at all, Maharashtra Rajya Kanda Utpadak Sanghatana leader Bharat Dighole said.

Meanwhile, according to APMC sources, the officials concerned were holding a meeting to resolve the issue.

The auction may start in the afternoon after a discussion with the agitators, they said.

Earlier this month, a farmer from Maharashtra's Solapur district had a rude shock when he got to know that he earned a profit of merely Rs 2.49 against the sale of his 512 kg onions to a trader in the district.

The farmer, 63-year-old Rajendra Chavan who resides in Barshi tehsil of Solapur, had said his onion yield fetched a price of Re 1 per kg at the Solapur market yard and after all the deductions he received this paltry sum as his net profit.


In India, the new hires will include over 550 people for Thales engineering centres in Bengaluru and Noida. French electronics giant Thales announced on Monday that it will hire more than 12,000 employees worldwide in 2023 to support its growth trajectory.



Thales is recruiting people in a range of jobs. 2022 saw a record level of recruitment, with 11,500 new hires  a 50 per cent rise over its worldwide hiring in 2021. The group will be hiring all over the world and expects to take on 5,500 new employees in France, 550 in India, 1,050 in the United Kingdom, 600 in Australia, and 540 in the United States, the company said in a press release.



Thales added that it was working to improve the gender balance in its workforce. In 2022, women accounted for 25 per cent of new hires in India, and represented 22 per cent of its India workforce. It also demonstrated Thales success in creating jobs during the Covid public health crisis, particularly by continuing hiring for the engineering centres in Bengaluru and Noida, Thales said.

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Offsets liabilities have been gradually accumulating. Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt told Parliament on August 5, 2022, that of $6.83 billion worth of offset obligations due to be discharged till August 1, 2022, vendors had submitted offset claims worth only $5.58 billion  or 82.13 per cent of their cumulative commitment. Thales is required to discharge offset obligations worth billions of dollars in India, linked with the purchase of 36 Rafale fighters, upgrade of 51 Mirage 2000 fighters, construction of six Scorpene submarines and other high-value sales to India.



The study also highlighted that 87 per cent of the offset obligations had been discharged through 15 Indian Offset Partners (IOPs). Of these, the top five IOPs received 51.76 per cent of the offset business and the top 10 as much as 76.11 per cent. This indicated that the direct benefit of offsets was restricted to a few big Indian defence companies. A study in 2019 by the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, carried out to assess the impact of offsets on the Indian defence industry, revealed that more than 90 per cent of offset obligations were discharged by vendors through direct purchase of products and services from Indian companies. Hardly any vendors were opting to bring in foreign direct investment for discharging their offsets.



2022 was a record-breaking year for recruitment by Thales. Even so, it is continuing to hire in 2023 to support its strong growth trajectory in its three core markets: Aerospace, defence and security, and digital identity and security. Thales, one of the big global firms that invests in digital and deep tech innovations  connectivity, big data, artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security and quantum technology  is watched carefully by the Ministry of Defence to ascertain if it discharges its offsets liabilities in those fields or in simple manufacture.



At these sites, Thales is mainly seeking hardware and software engineers, systems architects, experts in digital technologies, and project managers, offering them the opportunity to help build a safer, greener, more inclusive world. Thales is recruiting people in a range of job profiles for its engineering operations in India, said Thales. It is hiring in every discipline across all its business segments, and in particular for its sites in Noida and Bengaluru Thales is recruiting people on permanent or fixed-term contracts as well as providing internal mobility opportunities in India and across the globe.

In 2021, Thales 77,000 employees in 68 countries generated sales of 16.2 billion. Thales harnesses the talents of 35,000 R&D engineers, who have built up a portfolio of 20,000 patents in fields such as quantum technologies, AI, lasers and cyber security.


"We need this in all areas of employment, but of course especially when it comes to skills such as those we have seen today in the area of software and IT development," he said. As Germany faces labour shortages, it is looking for ways to ease the path to obtaining work visas for Indian IT experts in the country. In a recent visit to Bengaluru, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that their government wants to "simplify" the process to issue such visas.



According to data from the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as reported by the Economic Times (ET), there are around two million unfilled posts in the country. Also, its language barrier makes its neighbours like Britain, Spain and France likelier choices for immigrants to work. Scholz added that he "was determined" to reduce the bureaucratic hurdles to immigration for skilled workers.

What changes is Germany expecting to make?

Making EU Blue Card more easily available:

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No need for a formal recognition of degrees: The blue card is a work permit allowing highly skilled non-EU citizens to work and live in 25 of the 27 EU countries excluding Denmark and Ireland. Germany is reportedly trying to ease the process of obtaining this card in their country, especially for tech specialists.



However, Germany is now willing to let immigrants in and out of their field of expertise without this formality. In Germany, job seekers must compare their existing qualifications with the closest German degree. If the degree doesn't measure up, an additional study is required.

Short-term employment:

Germany may also soon allow employers to hire foreigners for short periods regardless of the special qualification requirements. However, the number of workers, in this case, will be capped.

Opportunity cards:

A new points-based "opportunity card" may also be launched soon with details like qualifications, language skills, age etc. The points, however, will be awarded based on the ability to learn German.
Over 200 shops were gutted as a massive fire broke out at the Mao Market in Nagaland's capital Kohima on Monday evening, police said.

The fire was first spotted around 5 pm on the ground floor of the three-storeyed building, they said.

As the building housed structures made of wood, the fire spread fast, they added.

Locals alleged that the fire services failed to arrive in time, further aggravating the situation.

Around 20 fire tenders from across Kohima, including those of the Assam Rifles, and engines from Khuzama and Chumoukedima were brought in to fight the blaze, which is suspected to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, police said.

The fire was brought under control after more than two hours, they said.

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The exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained, they said, adding that no casualty has been reported.

The fire ravaged properties worth crores of rupees, officials said, stating that a final estimation is awaited.

The market housed a variety of shops -- vegetables, meat products, groceries, clothing and cosmetics, among others.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has formed a panel to obtain a factual report on a petition alleging illegal encroachments and constructions near a pond in the Vasant Kunj area here.

According to the petition, the pond, adjacent to Kishangarh village, contributes to the waters of a larger lake in the nearby Smriti Van DDA park and the overall wetland ecosystem of the area, but authorities are not taking action despite illegal constructions.

A bench comprising Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Expert Member A Senthil Vel said a substantial question relating to the environment has arisen but before taking any action, it is appropriate to obtain a factual report.

"We constitute a joint committee comprising the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), the district magistrate, South Delhi, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi Wetland Authority, which shall submit a report within two months," the bench said.

It said the DM will be the nodal agency for coordination and compliance.

The matter has been listed for further proceedings on April 25.

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According to the petition, the pond had a centuries-old stone wall and steps but illegal constructions, some of which are only a few feet away from the wall, encroached upon the steps.

The pond received water from adjoining areas through slopes and must have been strategically constructed after studying the topology and geography of the area, the petition said.

Thus, its protection is necessary for the environment and the benefit of local residents, it added.


A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad dismissed a batch of petitions assailing the scheme, and said there was no reason to interfere with it. The Delhi High Court on Monday upheld the Centre's Agnipath scheme for recruitment in the armed forces, saying it was made in national interest and to ensure that the armed forces are better equipped.

The court also dismissed petitions relating to recruitment process for the armed forces under certain previous advertisements while clarifying that such candidates do not have a right to seek recruitment.

A bench had on December 15 last year reserved its verdict on the matter.



According to these rules, those between 17-and-a-half and 21 years of age are eligible to apply and they would be inducted for a four-year tenure. The scheme allows 25 per cent of them to be granted regular service subsequently. After the scheme was unveiled, protests erupted in several states against the scheme. The Agnipath scheme, unveiled on June 14, 2022, lays out rules for the recruitment of youths in the armed forces.

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Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati and central government standing counsel Harish Vaidyanathan, representing the Centre, had said the Agnipath scheme is one of the biggest policy changes in defence recruitment and was going to bring a paradigm shift in the way the armed forces recruit personnel. Later, the government extended the upper age limit to 23 years for recruitment in 2022.



The high court had also asked the Centre to justify different pay scales of 'Agniveers' and regular sepoys in the Indian Army if their job profile is same. "More than 10 lakh aspirants have taken advantage of the two-year age relaxation given by us... A lot of things we cannot say on affidavit, but we have acted in bona fide manner," the ASG has said.



Earlier, the bench had asked the petitioners who have challenged the Centre's short-term military recruitment scheme Agnipath as to which of their rights have been violated and said it was voluntary and those having any problem should not join the armed forces under it. Defending its Agnipath scheme, the Centre has said a large amount of study has gone into this policy and it was not a decision which was taken lightly and the Union of India was mindful and cognisant of the situation.



One of the petitioner's counsel had said that after being recruited under the scheme, the Agniveers will have life insurance of Rs 48 lakh in case of contingency which is much less than the existing one. The high court had said the Agnipath scheme has been formed by experts in the Army, Navy and Air Force, and judges were not military experts.



The Centre had earlier filed its consolidated reply to several petitions against the Agnipath scheme as well as those concerning the recruitment processes for the armed forces under certain previous advertisements and has said there was no legal infirmity in it. Whatever the armed forces personnel are entitled to, these Agniveers will get them only for four years, the counsel had argued, adding that if the service would have been for five years, they would have been entitled to gratuity.



One of the petitions before the high court has sought a direction to the armed forces to resume the recruitment process which has been cancelled due to the introduction of the Agnipath scheme and prepare the final merit list after conducting a written examination within a stipulated time. The government submitted that the Agnipath scheme was introduced in the exercise of its sovereign function to make national security and defence more "robust, "impenetrable" and "abreast with changing military requirements".

Earlier, the Supreme Court had asked the high courts of Kerala, Punjab and Haryana, Patna and Uttarakhand to transfer the PILs against the Agnipath scheme pending before them to the Delhi High Court or keep it pending till a decision from the Delhi High Court is delivered, if the petitioners before it so desire.
Representatives from 25 countries were also expected to attend the two-day event.

Visakhapatnam: The Andhra Pradesh government has identified 14 sectors for major investments and these would be highlighted at the Global Investors Summit in Visakhapatnam on March 3 and 4.

These are the aerospace and defence, agriculture and food processing, automobile and electric vehicles, electronics and IT, renewable energy, petroleum and petrochemicals, healthcare and medical equipment, industrial and logistic infrastructure, skill development and education, MSME startups and innovation, textiles and apparel, tourism and hospitality, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, and higher education.

Industry sources and 7,500 delegates have registered their names for participation. Representatives from 25 countries were also expected to attend the two-day event.

Visakhapatnam having rail, road network, railways, air and water ways is most ideal for investment in giant sectors. The district has a land bank of 48,352 acres, officials said.

Of the total GDP, Visakhapatnam gets 55 per cent from the service sector, 35 from industries and 10 per cent from agriculture. The per capita income in Visakhapatnam is Rs 1,70,215.

The AP government has launched a special incentive programme for the new investors. This includes an incentive package for investors in the YSR Jaganana Mega Industrial Hub at Kopparthi, special incentives for SC, ST and backward caste entrepreneurs under the YSR Jagananna Badugu Vikasam, a textile, apparel and garment policy 2018-2023, the Andhra Pradesh Retail Park policy 2021-2026 and the Andhra Pradesh Logistics Policy 2022-2027.

A senior officer from the industry department said the government has so far established 108 large industries with an investment of Rs 53, 944 crore, creating an employment strength of 71,056.

The industries that have begun their operations include ATC Tyres, Apollo Tyres, Ramco cements, KIA Motors and Hero Motors etc.

"During the last three years, 1,32,692 units were established with an investment of Rs 17,673 crore, which created an employment roll of 9,99,030, officials said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday sought to take the fight with the Congress head-on in election-bound Karnataka, accusing the party of "insulting" its President Mallikarjun Khage, who hails from the state, even as he stressed on the BJP's development agenda.

With about two months to go for polls in Karnataka, Modi used the occasion of a public meeting at Belagavi to hit out at the Congress as he targeted "dynastic parties", comments which are also seen to be targeted at former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda's JD(S), besides the Kharge-led party.

Earlier on Monday, Modi inaugurated the Shivamogga airport in another public meeting, where he heaped praise on Karnataka BJP strongman and four-time Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, who celebrated his 80th birthday today.

"Hawai chappal-wearing (slippers) common citizens should be able to travel in Hawai Jahaj (aircraft). I am seeing it happening," the Prime Minister said as he highlighted that India's aviation market is growing rapidly.

In Shivamogga, the home district of Yediyurappa, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth more than Rs 3,600 crore.

Regarding the aviation sector, Modi took a dig at the Congress, saying before 2014 during the UPA regime, Air India was generally discussed in a negative light and its identity had always been associated with scams where it was deemed a loss-making business model.

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Highlighting the Air India of today, the Prime Minister said the recently-privatised airline is recognised as the potential of a new India where it is soaring to the heights of success, he said.

In Belagavi, the Prime Minister released the 13th instalment of funds worth over Rs 16,000 crore under PM-KISAN scheme and laying the foundation stone and dedicating to the nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs 2,700 crore in the state's northern district, which is bordering Maharashtra.

Addressing a large gathering in the city after a massive roadshow, Modi accused the Congress of disrespecting Karnataka and its leaders, while alleging that Kharge was insulted by the party during its plenary session in Chhattisgarh.

He said Kharge was insulted and disrespected by the party, in favour of a "family", apparently referring to the Nehru-Gandhi family, despite the Congress president's seniority and age.

"I want to remind you how Congress hates Karnataka. Insulting Karnataka's leaders is part of Congress' old culture. From whomever Congress' family feels troubled, disrespecting them begins in that party. History stands witness to the insult meted out to the leaders such as S Nijalingappa and Veerendra Patil (former Karnataka CMs), before the family. Everyone in Karnataka knows about it," Modi said.

Now once again, one more leader from Karnataka has been insulted by loyalists of the family, he claimed.

"I have great respect for Mallikarjun Kharge, a son of this land, who has about 50 years of parliamentary or legislature experience. He has tried to do whatever he could in the service of people. But I was sad looking at how Kharge, who is the President of the party and a senior in age, was treated during the Congress' session in Chhattisgarh," Modi said.

"The weather was hot, everyone standing there feeling the heat was natural, but in that heat the good fortune of umbrella's shade was not there for Kharge who is Congress chief and senior in age. The umbrella's shade was for someone standing next to him. This shows Kharge is Congress President just for the sake of it, and looking at the way he is treated, everyone can understand as to whose hands the remote control is in," he alleged.

Noting that several political parties in the country are in the clutches of dynastic politics, Modi said: "We have to free the country from these clutches. People of Karnataka should be cautious about parties like Congress."



He claimed that "Congress people" are so disappointed that they feel that until Modi is alive they cannot do anything.

"So all of them are saying and raising slogans 'Marja Modi, Marja Modi' (Modi die, Modi die), some people are even busy digging 'kabr' (grave). They are saying 'Modi theri kabr khudegi' (Modi your grave will be dug)...but the country is saying 'Modi tera kamal khilega' (Modi your lotus will bloom)."



Speaking about the achievements of "double engine government" (BJP governments at state and Centre), Modi said BJP rule in both Karnataka and the Centre is "guarantee" for fast-paced development.
Ahead of her visit to India, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on Monday said Canberra is looking forward to hosting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Quad leaders' meeting later this year.

Wong will be in Delhi to attend the G20 foreign ministers' meet on March 1 and 2 as well as to participate in the Raisina Dialogue, India's premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics.

The Australian foreign minister said Canberra "strongly supports" India's G20 presidency and welcomes its ambitious, action-oriented agenda for the grouping under the "One Earth, One Family, One Future" theme.

"This will be my first visit to India as foreign minister, and I look forward to meeting my counterparts at the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi," Wong said in a statement.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is also set to make his maiden trip to India early next month with an aim to boost the overall bilateral engagement in a range of areas, including trade, investment and critical minerals.

"Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell and Minister for Resources Madeleine King will travel to India over the next month, and later this year, Australia looks forward to hosting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he attends the Quad leaders' meeting," Wong said.

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Australia is scheduled to host a Quad leaders' summit later this year to review the overall cooperation in diverse areas among the member countries of the four-nation coalition.

Besides India and Australia, the other members of the grouping are the United States and Japan.

The previous edition of the Quad summit took place in Tokyo in May last year.

"Australia strongly supports India's G20 presidency and welcomes India's ambitious, action-oriented G20 agenda, under the theme 'One Earth, One Family, One Future'," Wong said.

"I look forward to working with my counterparts on how we can address contemporary international challenges, including strengthening the multilateral system, food and energy security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief," she added.

"While in New Delhi, I will also attend the 2023 Raisina Dialogue, India's premier forum for addressing the most challenging issues facing our regional and global community," the minister said.

Wong is also scheduled to visit Malaysia.

The Australian foreign minister said she is visiting the two countries to advance Australia's bilateral relationships and promote its interests in a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The ties between India and Australia have been on an upswing in the last few years. The India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) came into force in December last year and is expected to facilitate significant expansion of two-way trade.

The defence and security ties between India and Australia have also been on an upswing in the last few years.

In June 2020, India and Australia elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support.

The Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) allows the militaries of the two countries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, besides facilitating scaling up of overall defence cooperation.

In August last year, four Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jets and two C-17 heavy-lift aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) joined a 17-nation air combat exercise in Australia.

More than 100 aircraft and 2,500 personnel from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Indonesia, India, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Thailand, the US and the United Kingdom participated in the exercise in Australia's Northern Territory.

Australia is set to host the Malabar naval exercise later this year. It will involve the navies of India, Australia, Japan and the US.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the post-budget webinar on Green Growth' via video conferencing, Thursday, Feb 23, 2023. (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Inviting global investment in the green energy sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that India's potential in solar, wind and biogas is no less than a goldmine or an oil field. Addressing a webinar on various "Green Growth" announcements made in the Union Budget 202324, Mr Modi said, "This Budget is not only an opportunity but also contains the guarantee of our future security."

The Prime Minister noted that Indias commanding position in the renewable energy space will ensure a commensurate change in the world. "This Budget will play a key role in establishing India as a lead player in the global green energy market. That is why, today, I invite every stakeholder in the energy world to invest in India," he said.

Referring to the global efforts for diversification of the energy supply chain, Mr Modi said that this Budget has given a great opportunity to every green energy investor to invest in India and this will also be very useful for the startups in the sector.

"India has been the fastest when it comes to renewable energy capacity addition among major economies since 2014. Indias track record shows its capability to achieve the objectives before time when it comes to renewable energy resources," he said.

The Prime Minister informed the audience that India achieved the target of 40 per cent contributions from non-fossil fuels in the installed electricity capacity nine years before the target date.

Mr Modi said that India achieved the target of 10 per cent ethanol blending in petrol five months ahead of schedule and that the nation strives to achieve the 20 per cent ethanol blending target by 202526 instead of 2030.

The Prime Minister also mentioned that the total renewable energy capacity of 500 GW will be achieved by 2030.

Talking about the launch of E20 fuel, the Prime Minister pointed out the governments emphasis on biofuels and said that it has brought new opportunities for investors.

At the webinar, the PM talked about the abundance of agri-waste in the country and urged the investors not to miss the opportunity of setting up ethanol plants in every corner of the country. "The potential in solar, wind and biogas in India is no less than any gold mine or oil field for our private sector," Mr Modi said.

The Prime Minister stated that all Budgets tabled in the country since 2014 have advanced new-age reforms in addition to finding solutions to current-day challenges.

The Prime Minister outlined three pillars for green growth and energy transmission. First, increasing the production of renewable energy; second, reducing the use of fossil fuels in the economy and finally, rapidly moving towards a gas-based economy in the country.

The Prime Minister stated that under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India is moving towards a target of producing five MMT of green hydrogen and an allocation of `19,000 crores has been made to incentivise the private sector in this field.

The Prime Minister also said that India has the potential to produce 10,000 million cubic metres of biogas from cow dung (gobar) and 1.5 lakh cubic metres of gas, which can contribute up to 8 per cent to the country's city gas distribution system.

"Because of these possibilities, the Gobardhan Yojana is today an important component of India's biofuel strategy. In this Budget, the government has announced plans to set up 500 new plants under the Gobardhan Yojana. These are not like old-fashioned plants. The government will spend `10,000 crores on these modern plants," he said.

Throwing light on the countrys vehicle scrapping policy, he stressed that it is a crucial part of the green growth strategy and informed that the government has made provisions of `3,000 crores in this years Budget to scrap around three lakh vehicles owned by Central and state governments that are older than 15 years, including police vehicles, ambulances and buses.

"Vehicle scrapping is going to become a huge market," said the Prime Minister, following the principle of "Reuse, Recycle and Recovery". He also emphasised that it gives new strength to our circular economy and urged the youth of India to participate in various circular economy initiatives.

The Prime Minister pointed out that India has to increase its battery storage capacity to 125 gigawatt hours in the next six-seven years and informed the audience that the government has come out with a viability gap-funding scheme in this Budget to support the battery developers in achieving big goals in this capital-intensive sector.

Noting that water-based transport is becoming a huge sector in India, he said that India transports only five per cent of its cargo through its coastal routes today, whereas only two per cent of cargo is transported in the country through inland waterways. He said that the development of waterways in India will give rise to many opportunities for all stakeholders in this field.

The Prime Minister stated that India has enormous potential to lead the world in green energy technology, emphasising that it will advance the cause of global good in addition to creating green jobs.

"This Budget is not only an opportunity, but it also contains the guarantee of our future security," the Prime Minister said. He urged all stakeholders to act quickly to implement every provision of the Budget.
The Election Commission said that it will hold peace meetings on Monday and Tuesday to avert any law and order problem in the state after election results are declared on March 2.

The Chief Election Officer, Kiran Gitte told ANI that they had meetings with all political parties in this regard.

"After poll results, a law and order situation can occur. Peace meetings to be held on February 27 and 28," the Chief Election officer said, adding, "People will be requested to pass a resolution to maintain peace".

The development comes after a person allegedly sustained a leg injury after clashes had broken out between supporters of the ruling BJP and Opposition CPI during the polling for Tripura assembly elections outside a polling booth earlier in the month.

The alleged incident had taken place outside the Kalacherra polling station in Shantirbazaar Assembly constituency in the south Tripura district.

On Thursday, Tripura Chief Electoral Officer Kiran Gitte conducted review meetings in South Tripura, Gomati and Sepahijala districts ahead of the counting of votes of recently held Tripura Assembly polls.

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The review meeting was conducted in the presence of state Chief Secretary JK Sinha and Director General of Police (DGP) Amitabh Ranjan and Additional DGP Saurabh Tripathi.

The concerned District Magistrates, Superintendent of Police and senior officers attended the review meetings.

It was discussed that the guidelines of the Election Commission of India shall be followed for the smooth completion of the counting process.

Adequate measures shall be taken for maintaining law and order before and after the counting process.

The Counting Observers are expected to be deputed by the Election Commission of India starting from February 28.

Notably, the counting of votes of 60 assembly constituencies shall be held in 21 counting locations across the State on March 2.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday urged the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland to give change a chance as polling in the two northeast states was underway.

"People of Meghalaya and Nagaland are looking towards progressive, welfare-oriented governments," Kharge said in a tweet.

"Welcome our first time voters to participate in this democratic process for a better future. Urge our sisters and brothers of Meghalaya and Nagaland to give change a chance," he said.

Polling began in 59 of 60 assembly constituencies in Meghalaya at 7 am on Monday with voters set to seal the electoral fate of 369 candidates.

Voting for the Nagaland Assembly polls also began at 7 am, with electors set to decide the electoral fate of 183 candidates.
As the polling for the 59 member seats, after one BJP candidate won unopposed, in Nagaland is about to start in a few hours, the Assembly elections in the northeastern state have become everyone's word on the lip.

The voting for Nagaland Assembly elections for 59 seats is to be held today in a single phase, deciding the fate of 183 candidates.

Polling will start at 7 am and conclude at 4 pm, as per the Election Commission of India.

After the high-decibel campaign which marked by bitter political attacks and promises of development, as well as employment, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) is looking to retain power in the state.

The BJP and NDPP are contesting the elections on a 20:40 seat-sharing arrangement while the Naga People's Front (NPF) and Congress are contesting in 22 and 23 seats respectively.

The BJP in Nagaland has already opened up its account in the State ahead of the polls as the party candidate Kazheto Kinimi won from the Akuluto seat uncontested after the Congress candidate withdrew his candidature.

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After the withdrawal of candidature by Khekashe Sumi, the Nagaland Assembly elections will witness a total of 183 candidates, in the fray.

The candidates vying for the State polls include 20 from BJP, CPI (1), INC (23), NCP (12), NPP (12), NDPP (40), NPF (22), RPP (1), JD (U) (7), LJP (Ram Vilas) (15), RPI (Athawale) (9), RJD (3), and Independent (19).

It is pertinent to mention only four out of 183 candidates in the fray this time are women. Since it was established in 1963, the state of Nagaland has seen 14 Assembly elections -- but never a woman MLA.

A total of 13,17,632 voters, out of which 6,61,489 are male electors, and 6,56,143 are female will exercise their franchise to decide the fate of political parties and to elect their representatives of 60-members Nagaland Legislative Assembly.

Among the key constituencies are Northen Angami, which will determine the poll fate of NDPP candidate and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio; Tiyu where BJP candidate and Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton; Peren where a two-time Chief Minister TR Zeliang will be contesting the election as NDPP candidate.

Nagaland BJP chief Temjen Imna Along will contest from Alongtaki seat. In the present government, he is also serving as a Minister of Higher and Technical Education. Only Janata Dal (United) has fielded its candidate J Lanu Longchar from this seat.

Ghaspani is another seat that is attracting all the eyeballs. BJP has fielded N Jacob Zhimomi and Akavi N Zhimomi is in fray as Congress candidate.

Phek is another constituency to watch out for in the elections. NPF leader Kuzholuzo Nienu will be contesting from this seat. While the NDPP has fielded Kupota Khesoh, Congress has given ticket to Zacilhu Ringa Vadeo and S Akho Leyri is a NPF candidate.

In Dimapur-III, where NDPP candidate Hekani Jakhalu is in fray while the newbie Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) has given ticket to Azheto Zhimomi from this seat.

The other major constituencies are Dimapur-I, Southern Angami l, Southern Angami I, Chozuba, Koridang, Koridang, Bhandari, Sanis, Zunheboto, Kohima, Western Angami, Longleng, and Seyochung Sitimi

The legislative leader of the NPF, Kuzholuzo Nienu is another candidate to watch out for in the elections. He is set to contest the elections from his home seat Phek.

The high-voltage campaign by the BJP saw addressing public rallies of various tall leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president JP Nadda, Union ministers Sarbananda Sonowal, Kiran Rijiju, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and other.

NDPP campaigners and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio was seen doing public rallies in almost all the constituencies.

NPF leader Kuzholuzo Nienu has declared he is open to post-poll public rallies with other parties and candidates.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also addressed an election rally in Dimapur while party MP Shashi Tharoor addressed a rally in Kohima.

The Congress has also announced that they can opt for post-polls alliance if required.

The counting of votes will be done on March 2.
Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Tripura, Gitte Kirankumar Dinakarrao, on Monday appealed to political parties and people for ensuring peace during and after the counting of votes for the state assembly elections.

Counting for the February 16 Assembly elections will be held on March 2.

The CEO was addressing a booth-level peace meeting in Sepahijala district's Kamalsagar Assembly constituency.

We have arranged elaborate security during the counting process to make it free, fair, transparent and peaceful, he said.

The poll panel during its visit to the state on January 12 had promised that the assembly elections would be free, fair, and peaceful.

The Election Commission has set a programme- 'zero poll violence' - during the election and post-election period and so far it has been done with the cooperation from the people as well as political parties. Booths are the places where the possibility of violence cannot be ruled out and this is the reason the Election Commission is holding booth-level peace meetings in all the 3337 polling stations, he said.
The European Commission opened an investigation in December, saying the deal, announced last year, would allow Broadcom to restrict competition in the market for certain hardware components which interoperate with VMwares software. The EU competition enforcer, which will decide on the deal by June 7, declined to comment. The Commission will set out its concerns in a statement of objections, the sources said.

US chipmaker Broadcom is set to receive an European Union (EU) antitrust warning about the possible anti-competitive effects of its proposed $61 billion bid for cloud computing company VMware in the coming weeks, sources said.
The government will distribute Rs 7,350 crore to four lakh beneficiaries under the scheme this year. (Representational Image)

HYDERABAD: The state government has decided to extend financial assistance of Rs 3 lakh each to 1,78,200 beneficiaries in rural areas and 2,21,800 beneficiaries in urban areas, who own plots, to construct 2BHK houses.

The government will distribute Rs 7,350 crore to four lakh beneficiaries under the scheme this year. The government will also sanction house sites to poor people who don't own plots. Resolving long-pending Dharani portal issues would also be resolved soon.

These were the outcome of a meeting of the cabinet sub-committee headed by IT minister K.T. Rama Rao and comprising ministers T. Harish Rao, Talasani Srinivas Yadav, Sabitha Indra Reddy, Ch. Malla Reddy, Puvvada Ajay Kumar, V. Srinivas Goud and Errabelli Dayakar Rao at BRKR Bhavan here on Monday.

Chief Secretary A. Santhi Kumari, finance special chief secretary K. Ramakrishna Rao, MA&UD special chief secretary Arvind Kumar and irrigation special Chief Secretary Rajat Kumar were also present in the meeting.

The meeting discussed issues relating to providing house sites to all eligible beneficiaries in the state. Issues relating to implementation of GO 58, GO 59 for regularisation of government lands under the possession of private individuals, who built houses, regularisation of sadabainama (plain paper agreement) agriculture lands and purchase of houses through notarised documents and regularisation of endowment/Wakf lands were all deliberated.

In his opening remarks, Rama Rao said that the government was committed to providing houses or house sites to all the eligible one crore families. Over 1.25 lakh beneficiaries were given pattas in 2014, he said. Verification process in respect of 20,685 houses under GO 58 has been completed.

Rama Rao directed the officials to come up with a people first policy wherein people below poverty line should be issued house site pattas on a priority basis.

Referring to notarised documents, which were more prevalent in urban areas, the panel asked the officials to finalise the procedure and a time-bound action plan. The committee requested all officials to take a "pro-poor" approach and expedite completion of all formalities in all the eligible cases.
Twitter Inc has laid off at least 200 employees, or about 10% of its workforce, the New York Times reported late on Sunday, in its latest round of job cuts since Elon Musk took over the micro-blogging site last October.

The layoffs on Saturday night impacted product managers, data scientists and engineers who worked on machine learning and site reliability, which helps keep Twitter's various features online, the NYT report said, citing people familiar with the matter.

Twitter did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The company has a headcount of about 2,300 active employees, according to Musk last month.

The latest job cuts follow a mass layoff in early November, when Twitter laid off about 3,700 employees in a cost-cutting measure by Musk, who had acquired the company for $44 billion.

Musk said in November that the service was experiencing a "massive drop in revenue" as advertisers pulled spending amid concerns about content moderation.

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Twitter recently started sharing revenue from advertisements with some of its content creators.

Earlier in the day, The Information reported that the social media platform laid off dozens of employees on Saturday, aiming to offset a plunge in revenue.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Union leader Ursula von der Leyen are set to hold face-to-face talks, with expectations high they will seal a deal to resolve a thorny post-Brexit trade dispute.

That would mark a breakthrough after months of bitter wrangling that has soured UK-EU relations, sparked the collapse of the Belfast-based regional government and and threatened to set back Northern Ireland's decades-old peace process.

In a joint statement on Sunday the UK and the EU said European Commission President von der Leyen will travel to Britain on Monday so the leaders can work towards "shared, practical solutions for the range of complex challenges around the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Sunak's office set out a tightly choreographed agenda for Monday suggesting a deal is all but done. It said the leaders' lunchtime final talks would be followed by a meeting of the UK Cabinet, then, if there is a deal, by a joint news conference and a statement by Sunak to the House of Commons.

UK Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said earlier on Sunday that the two sides were on the cusp of striking an agreement over trade rules known as the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Northern Ireland is the only part of the UK that shares a border with an EU member, the Republic of Ireland. When the UK left the bloc in 2020, the two sides agreed to keep the Irish border free of customs posts and other checks because an open border is a key pillar of Northern Ireland's peace process.

Also Read European Union assures Ukraine of support as Zelensky visits Brussels European Union to provide Albania with 80 mn euros to tackle energy crisis Italian PM Giorgia Meloni reaffirms commitment to EU recovery plan EU to provide $504 mn in grants for Western Balkans to tackle energy crisis What challenges await Rishi Sunak as the new PM of the UK? Iran's currency hits new low amid anti-government protests Supply chains globally have healed yet their mark on inflation to endure Pak accepts more IMF condition, agrees to increase rate by 200 basis points A year after, the global economy changed by Russia Ukraine war: Report Cash-strapped Pak receives funds worth $700 mn from China Development Bank

Instead there are checks on some goods entering Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK. That angered British unionist politicians in Belfast, who say the new trade border in the Irish Sea undermines Northern Ireland's place in the United Kingdom.

The Democratic Unionist Party collapsed Northern Ireland's Protestant-Catholic power-sharing government a year ago in protest and has refused to return until the rules are scrapped or substantially rewritten.

Relations between the UK and the EU, severely tested during years of Brexit wrangling, chilled still further amid disputes over the Northern Ireland Protocol. The British government introduced a bill that would let it unilaterally rip up parts of the Brexit agreement, a move the EU called illegal. The bloc accused the UK of failing to honor the legally binding treaty it had signed.

The mood between London and Brussels improved after Sunak, a pragmatic Brexit supporter, took office in October, replacing more belligerent predecessors Boris Johnson and Liz Truss.

Striking a deal would let Sunak get Brexit done in a way that eluded Johnson, who won a landslide election victory on that very slogan in 2019, three years after British voters narrowly opted in a referendum to leave the bloc.

Johnson did lead the UK out of the now 27-nation EU in 2020, but with a divorce deal that left Northern Ireland still bound to some EU rules and standards in a way that caused headaches for businesses and upset Northern Ireland's delicate political balance.

UK and EU negotiators have been inching towards a solution during weeks of intense talks, but any deal with the bloc carries political risk for Sunak.

Hints of compromise towards the EU have sparked opposition from hard-line euroskeptics in Sunak's governing Conservative Party, including Johnson.

The DUP also has warned it will oppose any deal that does not meet its demand for significant, substantive change.

A deal is likely to remove customs checks on the vast majority of goods moving between the U.K. and Northern Ireland.

The thorniest issue is the role of the European Court of Justice in resolving any disputes that arise over the rules. Britain and the EU agreed in their Brexit divorce deal to give the European court that authority, but the DUP and Conservative Brexiteers insist the court must have no jurisdiction in UK matters.

Sunak insisted a deal would meet unionist demands.

As someone who believes in Brexit, voted for Brexit, campaigned for Brexit, I want to demonstrate that Brexit works and it works for every part of the United Kingdom, he told the Sunday Times.

There's unfinished business on Brexit and I want to get the job done.
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At meeting held on 27 February 2023The Board of Laxmi Organic Industries at its meeting held on 27 February 2023 has accepted the resignation of Satej Nabar (DIN: 06931190), Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer (ED & CEO) of the Company with effect from 02 April 2023.

The Board has appointed Dr. Rajan Venkatesh (DIN:10057058), as the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of the Company and will be appointed for a period of five years with effect from 03 April 2023.

Ravi Goenka (DIN: 00059267), the current Chairman and Managing Director of the Company will step down from the role of the Managing Director with effect from 03 April 2023, and consequently he will continue as wholetime Director of the Company for the remaining tenure of this appointment and is re-designated as Executive Chairman of the Company w.e.f. 03 April 2023.

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Dr Reddys Laboratories announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the U.S. generic prescription product portfolio of Salisbury, Australia, based Mayne Pharma Group.

The portfolio includes approximately 45 commercial products, four pipeline products and 40 approved non-marketed products, including a number of generic products focused on women's health. For the financial period ended June 30, 2022, Mayne Pharma reported total revenue of $111 million (USD) for the acquired portfolio. Approved high-value products include a hormonal vaginal ring, a birth control pill and a cardiovascular product. Under the terms of the agreement, Dr. Reddy's will acquire the portfolio for an upfront payment of approximately $90 million (USD) in cash, contingent payments of up to $15 million (USD), consideration towards inventory and credits for certain accrued channel liabilities to be determined on the closing date. The closing of the transaction is subject to satisfactory completion of customary closing conditions including the applicable waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 (HSR Act), as amended.

The acquisition will complement Dr. Reddy's U.S. retail prescription pharmaceutical business with limited competition products. It also supports Dr. Reddy's efforts to accelerate and expand affordable medications for patients.

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Droneacharya Aerial Innovation said that it has joined hands as business partner with Ahmedabad-based Gridbots Technologies.Gridbots Technologies specializes in robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine vision. Their systems are used in various industries for defect detection, dimension measurement, sorting, grading, and other applications, helping clients achieve their digital factory goals efficiently.

Both the companies will manufacture drones; develop new products and technologies; will cross sell the products/services which are developed together, and which are offered currently; and will mutually share the technology, knowledge, network & resources for projects.

Through this collaboration Droneacharya will be starting a new business vertical i.e. manufacturing drones. For this purpose, Droneacharya will be setting up its own manufacturing unit in the city of Pune where its corporate office is situated.

The collaboration will combine Droneacharya's expertise in drone technology and Gridbots's resources for capturing the Indian and international markets thus widening the horizon for Droneacharya's existence and customer base internationally.

Droneacharya Aerial Innovations provide high-end ecosystem of drone solutions for multi-sensor drone surveys, data processing of drone data using robust high configuration workstations, drone pilot training & specialized GIS training. The company's offerings can be classified into four broad categories namely, training, services, surveillance and others.

The company reported standalone net profit of Rs 0.41 crore in FY23 as compared with net loss of Rs 0.15 crore in FY22. Net sales in FY23 stood at Rs 3.59 crore, steeply higher from Rs 0.01 crore in FY22.

Also Read BSE SME IPO Droneacharya Aerial Innovations subscribed 244 times BSE SME: Droneacharya Aerial Innovations hits the roof on debut Sensex slides 592 pts, broader mkt slumps, PSU bank shares tumbles Adani Enterprises, Eicher Motors, Aurobindo Pharma in focus Paras Defence and Space Technologies gains after entering into teaming agreement with ELDIS Pardubice Orissa Bengal Carrier Ltd leads losers in 'B' group Jai Balaji Inds announces plans to foray into Cement business Volumes jump at Olectra Greentech Ltd counter Basic materials stocks slide Information Technology shares edge lower

The scrip was down 3.80% to Rs 149.30 on the BSE.

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IT minister K.T. Rama Rao termed the arrest as 'undemocratic' and alleged that the BJP government at the Centre was misusing central investigation agencies like CBI against parties and leaders who were opposed to the BJP. (Image Source: Twitter)

HYDERABAD: The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) on Sunday strongly condemned the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the CBI in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

In a media statement, BRS working president and IT minister K.T. Rama Rao termed the arrest as 'undemocratic' and alleged that the BJP government at the Centre was misusing central investigation agencies like CBI against parties and leaders who were opposed to the BJP.

Rama Rao charged the BJP with misusing central agencies to weaken Opposition parties in those states where the BJP lacked public support to come to power, adding that Sisodia's arrest was part of that 'larger conspiracy' of the BJP.

He expressed concern that democracy was under threat under the BJP regime and termed Sisodia's arrest as the height of the 'political witch-hunt' of the BJP government.

Rama Rao alleged that BJP resorted to Sisodia's arrest as it was unable the digest the setback it had faced in the Supreme Court on the issue of the Delhi mayoral election.

He said Sisodia's arrest was a sign of 'cowardice' and the BJP was indulging in such moves against those who questioned the "inefficient governance and policies" of the Centre.

Rama Rao also tweeted, "How many ED, IT & CBI raids on BJP leaders or their kith & kin in last 8 years? Kya Sab Ke Sab BJP Wale Raja Satya Harischandra Ke Cousins/Rishtedaar Hain? The country is watching how PMs Cronies are protected despite serious allegations & how Opposition leaders are hounded (sic)."
Granules India: The US Food & Drug Administration (US FDA) has approved the drug maker's Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for Losartan Potassium Tablets USP, 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. It is bioequivalent to the reference listed drug product (RLD), Cozaar tablets of Organon LLC. The current annual U.S. market for Losartan potassium tablets is approximately $336 million, according to MAT Dec 2022, IQVIA/IMS Health.

Marico: The company's board will consider a proposal for declaration of interim equity dividend, if any, for the Financial Year 2022-23.

Piramal Enterprises: The board is scheduled to meet on on Wednesday, 1 March 2023, to consider and approve the issue of secured, rated, listed, redeemable, non-convertible debentures up to Rs 100 crore along with an option to retain oversubscription up to Rs 500 crore, the total size aggregating up to Rs 600 crore, on a private placement basis.

Kolte-Patil Developers: The company's board will consider fund raising today.

Power Grid Corporation of India: A special directors' committee approved aggregate investment to the tune of Rs 804 crore in four projects.

Indiabulls Housing Finance: The company will issue non-convertible debentures (NCDs) worth Rs 100 crore, with the option to retain oversubscription up to Rs 800 crore, aggregating up to Rs 900 crore. The NCD issue will open on Friday, 3 March 2023.

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SpiceJet: The company's board will now meet on Feb. 27 to consider issue of shares on preferential issues and raising fresh capital through issue of eligible securities to qualified institutional buyers.

NBCC (India): The company secured a work as Project Management Consultant (PMC) worth Rs 350 crore for various buildings at Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), Allahabad. In the month of January 2023, the company secured total business of Rs 194.17 crore.

PVR: The company announced the opening of 11 screen multiplex at Lulu Mall in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

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Sales rise 21.10% to Rs 150.00 croreNet profit of India Shelter Finance Corporation declined 2.08% to Rs 39.61 crore in the quarter ended December 2022 as against Rs 40.45 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2021. Sales rose 21.10% to Rs 150.00 crore in the quarter ended December 2022 as against Rs 123.86 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2021. ParticularsQuarter EndedDec. 2022Dec. 2021% Var.Sales150.00123.86 21 OPM %70.6273.88 -PBDT53.9153.66 0 PBT51.7852.00 0 NP39.6140.45 -2

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Infosys Ltd is quoting at Rs 1504.4, down 2.98% on the day as on 13:19 IST on the NSE. The stock tumbled 12.31% in last one year as compared to a 3.11% rally in NIFTY and a 11.82% fall in the Nifty FMCG index.

Infosys Ltd dropped for a fifth straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 1504.4, down 2.98% on the day as on 13:19 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is down around 0.85% on the day, quoting at 17316.85. The Sensex is at 59066.22, down 0.67%.Infosys Ltd has eased around 2.24% in last one month.Meanwhile, Nifty FMCG index of which Infosys Ltd is a constituent, has eased around 0.82% in last one month and is currently quoting at 30514.9, down 2.19% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 32.14 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 50.58 lakh shares in last one month.

The benchmark March futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 1512.8, down 2.81% on the day. Infosys Ltd tumbled 12.31% in last one year as compared to a 3.11% rally in NIFTY and a 11.82% fall in the Nifty FMCG index.

The PE of the stock is 28.6 based on TTM earnings ending December 22.

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The Phoenix Mills rose 1.18% to Rs 1330 after the company and the B Safal Group announced the opening of Palladium mall in Ahmedabad.

Spread over 5 acres, Palladium Ahmedabad has a gross leasable area of over 750,000 sq. ft. and brings over 35 international luxury brands.

Palladium Ahmedabad has been developed by the BSafal Group under its joint venture with PML.

Atul Ruia, Chairman, The Phoenix Mills, said, Gujarat has always been an attractive landscape for us because of its cosmopolitan population and growing exposure to the luxury ecosystem.

Palladium Ahmedabad is an artistic and architectural marvel, which is set to bring coveted luxury brands and a unique, immersive shopping experience to Ahmedabad.

Separately, after trading hours on Friday (24 February 2023), the Phoenix Mills announced that its wholly owned subsidiary Palladium Construction (PCPL) has completed the acquisition of a prime land parcel, admeasuring approx. 5.5 acres, in Alipore, Kolkata.

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Alipore is an established upmarket location with superior infrastructure, connectivity, and reach.

PCPL has acquired the land parcel at a consideration of Rs. 414.31 crore, including stamp duty. This acquisition provides PCPL with the opportunity to build a world class residential development of more than 1 million square feet of saleable area.

PCPL plans to begin the development on the site immediately and expect to complete construction of the project by 2028-2029. The project will include 325-350 homes, with approx. 1 million square feet of saleable area and an estimated gross sales value in excess of Rs. 2,300 crore.

The Phoenix Mills is India's largest retail led mixed-use developer. Its operations span across most aspects of real estate development; planning, execution, marketing, management, maintenance & sales. The group has real estate assets in Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Raipur, Agra, Indore, Lucknow, Bareilly & Ahmedabad.

The company had reported 78% jump in consolidated net profit to Rs 176.4 crore on a 66% increase in revenue from operations to Rs 683.8 crore in Q3 FY23 over Q3 FY22.

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SpiceJet rallied 3.27% to Rs 41 after the low-cost air carrier said that its board has approved a proposal to raise fresh capital of up to Rs 2,500 crore through qualified institutions placement (QIP).

In an exchange filing, SpiceJet said, the board of directors of the company has proposed to seek enabling approval of members of the company for raising fresh capital of upto Rs 2,500 crore through issue of eligible securities to qualified institutional buyers.

Further, the company's board approved the transfer of its cargo business to its subsidiary, SpiceXpress and Logistics (SXPL) on a slump sale basis for a consideration of Rs 2,555.77 crore. Accordingly, the cargo business will be exclusively undertaken by SXPL effective 1 April 2023.

The consideration for said transfer of cargo business undertaking shall be discharged by SXPL by issuance of securities in the combination of equity shares and compulsorily convertible debentures (CCDs) to the company for an aggregate amount of Rs 2,555.77 crore, SpiceJet stated in the press release.

As a part of ongoing restructuring with aircraft lessors Carlyle Aviation Partner (or its affiliated entities) and other aircraft lessors, all these CCDs will be transferred to those aircraft lessors who agree to exchange their lease liabilities for an aggregate amount equivalent to total nominal value of such CCDs.

SpiceJet said this restructuring will substantially reduce the existing liabilities and will help in fund raising for the business operations of the company.

Also Read Board of SpiceJet approves settlement with aircraft lessor Castlelake Spicejet appoints Ashish Kumar as new CFO SpiceJet jumps on clearing ICAO safety audit Inox Wind allots 55 lakh equity shares on conversion of warrants Board of SpiceJet approves conversion of lease liabilities Kolte-Patil Developers board OKs NCD issue of upto Rs 140 cr Vishnu Chemicals board approves investment worth Rs 1,000 cr Synergy Green Industries Ltd leads gainers in 'B' group Venus Remedies spurts after Baddi facility gets GMP certificate Olectra Greentech Ltd leads gainers in 'A' group

The firm's board has also approved the issue of equity shares on a preferential basis to the aircraft lessors based upon the conversion of their existing lease liabilities equivalent to an amount not exceeding $29.5 million at a price of Rs 48 per equity share.

Another proposal approved by the board is the exchange of its outstanding lease liabilities for an aggregate amount not exceeding $65.5 million into CCDs of SXPL, which is held by SpiceJet.

As part of the restructuring with aircraft lessor CLSEC Holdings 10 DAC, (affiliate of Castlelake), and in order to acquire two Boeing 737-800 airframes, the board has in-principally agreed to purchase the entire share capital of AS Lease 41 (Ireland) from CLSEC Holdings 10 DAC.

SpiceJet is a low-budget air carrier. The airline operates a fleet of Boeing 737s, Q-400s & freighters and is the country's largest regional player operating 63 daily flights under UDAN or the Regional Connectivity Scheme. The airline also operates a dedicated air cargo service under the brand name SpiceXpress offering cargo connectivity across India and on international routes.

The company reported standalone net profit of Rs 106.82 crore in Q3 FY23, steeply higher than Rs 23.28 crore posted in Q3 FY21. Total revenue from operations rose 2.7% YoY to Rs 2,261.13 crore during the quarter ended 31 December 2022.

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Sales rise 8.69% to Rs 189.18 croreNet profit of Toyota Financial Services India declined 18.48% to Rs 30.30 crore in the quarter ended December 2022 as against Rs 37.17 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2021. Sales rose 8.69% to Rs 189.18 crore in the quarter ended December 2022 as against Rs 174.06 crore during the previous quarter ended December 2021. ParticularsQuarter EndedDec. 2022Dec. 2021% Var.Sales189.18174.06 9 OPM %79.7679.56 -PBDT47.2954.99 -14 PBT40.4949.97 -19 NP30.3037.17 -18

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Aam Aadmi Party to hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case.

AAP's national General Secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday.

Taking to Twitter, Pathak on Sunday said, "The great Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who has shaped the future of lakhs of children of the country, has been arrested in a fake case. Against this, the Aam Aadmi Party will protest across the country tomorrow."

The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party's Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm om Monday.

It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat's Gandhinagar, Haryana's Rohtak, Noida, etc.

Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation after eight hours of questioning in the now-scrapped excise policy case.

Also Read What changes can consumers expect in Delhi after change in liquor policy? CBI files first charge sheet in Delhi excise scam case; Sisodia not named Manish Sisodia will fully cooperate with CBI in excise policy probe: Atishi ED questions Manish Sisodia's PA in Delhi Excise Policy scam case Excise policy scam: CBI summons Manish Sisodia for questioning on Monday We were arrested after being detained: AAP leaders; Delhi Police denies Congress apologises after flak over Abul Kalam Azad's absence in plenary ad LPG cylinder refills by PMUY beneficiaries woefully inadequate, shows data Sisodia CBI probe: AAP leaders detained for protesting near agency office I pray to God that you come out of jail soon: Kejriwal to Sisodia

Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

"Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal's rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP.

Sisodia also visited Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Rajghat before his arrest.

Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Manish is innocent. His arrest is dirty politics. There is a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Manish."

"Everyone is watching. People are understanding everything. People will respond to this. This will boost our spirits further. Our struggle will get stronger," he added in the tweet (roughly translated from Hindi).
The Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday launched its 'selfie with beneficiary' campaign in Aurangabad in Maharashtra in the presence of Union Minister Smriti Irani.

It will see party activists reaching one crore beneficiaries of schemes of the BJP-led Union government and clicking selfies with them and uploading them on the NAMO app, the campaign's national coordinator Medha Kulkarni said.

"This is not merely about selfies. It is a chance for the beneficiary to send their blessings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi," said Irani.

Union Minister Bhagwat Karad, state minister Atul Save and BJP leader Chitra Wagh were present on the occasion.
The Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) Karnataka unit has strongly condemned the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the CBI in connection with the Delhi excise policy scam.

Addressing the media here on Monday, the party's state spokesman Prithvi Reddy said: "There is nothing wrong with Delhi's excise policy. It should be noted here that the new excise policy is yet to be implemented in Delhi and the same policy is in force in many states.

"Although Central government investigators have been targeting Sisodia for nearly a year, not a shred of evidence has been found to substantiate the allegations. No cash or any illegal documents has been found. Realizing that it is only the AAP that has the power to face the BJP and since the latter is unable to confront us politically, it is misusing its powers to create trouble like this.

"The AAP is flourishing all over the country including Karnataka. The BJP cannot tolerate people being in favour of AAP. Manish Sisodia has been arrested by the Central government through the CBI, fearing that he might question the plight of government schools here when he comes to campaign for the Karnataka elections.

"We are not only ready for the arrest, but we are also ready to sacrifice our lives for the sake of the country and the people."

The spokesman went on to say that several foreign nations have also appreciated the revolution in the education brought in by the AAP in government schools across the national capital.

Also Read AAP Gujarat co-incharge Raghav Chadha likely to be arrested, says Kejriwal Kejriwal, Bhagwant Mann to hold public meetings during 2-day Gujarat visit Kejriwal on Gujarat visit today; plans to hold town hall meet in Vadodara Manish Sisodia to visit Sabarmati Ashram, participate in 'Parivartan Yatra' AAP challenges BJP to field their own candidate for MCD mayor post AAP to protest across India against Sisodia's arrest in liquor policy case We were arrested after being detained: AAP leaders; Delhi Police denies Congress apologises after flak over Abul Kalam Azad's absence in plenary ad LPG cylinder refills by PMUY beneficiaries woefully inadequate, shows data Sisodia CBI probe: AAP leaders detained for protesting near agency office

"But the BJP cannot tolerate this. Manish Sisodia as the Education Minister has built 25,000 state-of-the-art school rooms and laid a solid foundation for the future of around 20 lakh students.

"It is reprehensible that the BJP is doing such a low-level strategy against people like Manish Sisodia. Just like how a plant sprouts, the more the BJP disturbs, the Aam Aadmi Party will grow faster," Reddy added.
Interview: It's illogical U.S. spends much on wars, very little on infrastructure, says renowned anti-war activist

Xinhua) 08:20, February 27, 2023

Photo taken on Jan. 19, 2023 shows the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C., the United States. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

NEW YORK, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- "It isn't logical at all" the United States spends so many tax dollars on wars overseas and very little is left for infrastructure or any sort of services at home, a renowned anti-war activist has said.

"It's very dangerous what they're doing all over the world. We're neglecting things at home," Eric Garris, director of Antiwar.com, a premier anti-war website in the United States, told Xinhua in an interview on Wednesday.

"Look at what just happened in Ohio with that horrible polluting train wreck... All the government seems to be interested in is to stoke tensions and be the bully," said Garris, who started to march in civil rights demonstrations at age 8.

Noting that the United States spends "a higher percentage of its budget on military by far than any other country on Earth," Garris warned of the dire consequences of the U.S. wars overseas.

"We are killing lots of people, and the results are not coming the way they (U.S. politicians) promise, and it's only getting worse, and it could get very, very bad. It's very, very scary. That's why we have to build a movement in this country that relies on talking to people and getting out this information," said Garris, referring to recent anti-war rallies in 15 major U.S. cities, including Washington D.C..

Garris noted it seems that the Biden administration's only solution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict is "not to promote diplomacy, is not to promote ways to resolve differences, but rather to stoke them. And this is really, really bad."

"What they're doing is they are trying to exert their own supremacy over Europe. And they think that Russia is the main enemy for that supremacy," he said. "And in fact what we're doing is we are building up these alliances that are reminiscent of the beginning of World War I where you had a very small spark in a very small place that sparked World War."

"The difference between that and today is that today you have nuclear weapons. And so it becomes a much, much different potential outcome. And it's very, very dangerous. And we need to take a look at World War I and see the lessons of what happened when you create these alliances ... With nuclear weapons, it's a completely different situation and can lead to just catastrophic results," said Garris.

One of the big reasons that the United States is so obsessed with wars is "the defense industry has found a way for them to be rich," said Garris.

"And you have a lot of politicians that are getting rich by voting for these wars. They get their money from the defense industry. They get their money investing in defense stocks. Members of Congress are not prohibited from investing in defense stocks," he said.

"It's just awful. And they have no regard for the people that they're supposedly representing. And it's becoming fairly obvious and I hope that people wake up before it's too late," said Garris, adding "unfortunately so much of the American media has become bought out by these special interests."

"I hope the American people can tell their politicians that ... enough is enough. We need to stop this. We need to focus on trying to make peace and nothing else abroad. That's the only thing that we should be doing," he said.

"If we keep going in the direction we're going, not only will we bankrupt ourselves, but we could destroy the world. And that's very, very scary ... The United States needs to get out of Ukraine. We need to, you know, not escalate there. We need to deescalate, we need to demand peace talks and let the disputes be settled," Garris said.

The United States announced on Feb. 20 an additional 500 million U.S. dollars in military aid for Ukraine on top of the more than 50 billion dollars already promised, a move that is widely believed will further escalate the crisis.

The United States and its allies have already committed nearly 700 tanks and thousands of armored vehicles and 1,000 artillery systems, among others.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A brief history of conservative publications in Canada  updated to 2023 (Part Two) By Mark Wegierski

web posted February 27, 2023 The Conrad Black media revolution of the mid- to late-1990s, it could be argued, reconstructed the hitherto unspectacular Southam papers (and the former Financial Post) into a snazzier, as well as more intellectually diverse, format  with some surprisingly sharp-edged conservatism that had virtually never before been seen in Canada. As Blacks fortunes ebbed, the ideological sharpness of the papers markedly diminished, but the changes could not be entirely expunged. Black had also controversially taken over Saturday Night, which, however, at no time came to resemble a conservative magazine. Indeed, as far as the author knows, that venerable magazine has now completely folded. The Byfield newsmagazines, practically a Canadian conservative institution for decades, failed shortly after the beginning of the Twenty-First Century. It is difficult to say what exactly happened; some have argued that the Byfields simply got tired of their draining undertaking. Those circulation numbers certainly appeared to have made the magazines sustainable. In the aftermath of the Byfield failure, Ezra Levant and others established The Western Standard (newsmagazine format). It certainly seemed to be able to fill the niche left by the collapse of the Byfield newsmagazines. The demand for only news-stories largely excluded freelancers from the magazine. The Western Standard also folded in curious circumstances; apparently, the investors were demanding a quick return on their investment. It should be known by now that that should be a secondary consideration, for political publications. Social conservatism in Canada is now represented mostly by The Interim: Canadas Life and Family Newspaper (and the website, lifesite.net), and Faithful Insight magazine (a successor to Catholic Insight). Two major magazines were published by the CARDUS think-tank, Convivium, and Comment. However, Convivium had become an online-only publication  its last print issue appeared in January 2017. On February 18, 2022, even the online version of Convivium was closed to new submissions  although the website archive is expected to remain. Comment continues to appear. I recall seeing in the 1990s a thin magazine of the Canadian TFP (Tradition, Family, Property), and a broadsheet called Michael Journal, published by the remnants of the Quebec Creditistes. There is today the major, French-language, Quebec-based social conservative journal, Egards (Considerations). The arising of the Internet after 1995 did certainly open up some new forums for Canadian conservatives. The main edited e-zine has for a long time been enterstageright.com (as well as Judi McLeods Canada Free Press); the main self-posting forum is freedominion.ca ; and conservativeforum.org is an archive of interesting articles that is not updated. In recent years, Free Dominion has been subjected to vicious lawfare, and its situation is highly tenuous. In 2007, there arose the major webzine quarterly, c2cjournal.ca. There has arisen Ezra Levants The Rebel (or The Rebel Media) website, with dozens of bloggers contributing to it. Another substantial media initiative is Candice Malcolms True North Canada. There is also The Post-Millennial website. Another substantial website is The Hub ( thehub.ca ). Representing Western Canada, there is the new Western Standard website. Three websites of the culturalist opposition are actforcanada.ca, capforcanada.com, and eurocanadian.ca . There are also the party-based Blogging Tories. The impact of lesser-known websites, and more prominent personal blogs (such as those of Kate McMillan, the late Kathy Shaidle, or Richard Klagsbrun) is sometimes ephemeral and difficult to estimate. It still remains to be seen whether political discourse on the Internet can become a basis for generating enough financial resources and infrastructural weight in society to create major social, cultural, and political shifts. In recent years, there have arisen a few conservative print publications  The Dorchester Review (with mostly reviews of works of history) (published twice a year  in a classic quarterly digest format); The Canadian Observer (which, after a promising start, has failed) (newmagazine format); and Convivium (magazine format, glossy, full-colour cover, monochrome inside) published by the social conservative think-tank CARDUS. In January 2017, the last print issue of Convivium appeared. On February 18, 2022, even the online version of Convivium was closed to new submissions  although the website archive is expected to remain. They also publish a quarterly called Comment, in a smaller digest format (full-colour cover, monochrome inside). The author liked the first editorial of The Canadian Observer, which said it wanted to be a Cite Libre of the Right. (Cite Libre was the intensely intellectual and intensely left-wing journal founded by Pierre Elliott Trudeau and his associates in the 1950s in Quebec, when the prospects for the Left in Canada seemed especially thin. It was said to be the seedling from which both the so-called Quiet Revolution in Quebec, and the subsequent Trudeau revolution in all of Canada, arose.) There is also a local, agrarian-focussed magazine published in Eastern Ontario, The Landowner. In July 2013, a daily webzine, Freedom Press Canada Journal, was launched with great fanfare, but it mostly stopped publication after November 30, 2013, and has now apparently been entirely removed from the Internet. New postings had begun to very sporadically appear on the website (freedompress.ca) since mid-2014, but now the whole website appears to be no longer extant. In any case, Canadian conservatives are still looking for a National Review North. The main concept behind an intellectually- and ideologically-focussing magazine and/or daily-updated webzine is that it would be a nucleus around which other political institutions such as think-tanks and other publications could grow. It was clearly the early years of National Review which were the most important in creating the American conservative movement. It remains to be seen whether Canada can ever begin to follow along a similar path. This journey through the history of attempts at creating a sustainable conservative publication in Canada as an intellectual anchor (the role that the early National Review played in America), raises two points: the fragmented conservative community in Canada might lack either the will or the necessary focus to unite together around an authoritative Canadian conservative publication; while the Left in Canada, on the other hand, has amply displayed the ability to maintain more than one iconic publication. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home
Focusing on aggressive growth, Finnish telecom equipment manufacturer Nokia announced on February 26, 2023, that it was changing its brand identity for the first time in nearly 60 years, complete with a new Nokia logo. The word "NOKIA" has five distinct shapes in the new logo. The old Nokia logo's recognisable blue colour has been replaced by a variety of other colours, depending on the application.

In an interview, Chief Executive Pekka Lundmark stated: "There was an association with smartphones earlier; today we are a business technology company." He made the remarks ahead of the company's business update on the eve of the annual Mobile World Congress (MWC 2023), which will begin on 27 February in Barcelona and run until March 2.

In 2020, when he took over as CEO of the struggling Finnish company, Lundmark devised a three-stage plan: reset, speed up, and expand. Lundmark stated that the second stage was beginning now that the reset stage had been completed. Although Nokia intends to expand its service provider business, in which it sells telecom equipment, the company's primary focus is now gear sales to other businesses.

In order to sell private 5G networks and gears for automated factories to customers primarily in the manufacturing sector, significant technology companies have formed partnerships with telecom gear manufacturers like Nokia. Nokia intends to evaluate various options, including divestment, as well as growth paths of its various businesses.

"The signal is exceptionally clear. Lundmark stated, "We only want to be in businesses where we can see global leadership." As Nokia moves towards data centres and factory automation, it will also compete with big tech companies like Microsoft and Amazon.

The macro environment is reducing demand from high-margin markets like North America and replacing it with growth in low-margin India, which has forced rival Ericsson to lay off 8,500 employees. "This is a structural change," Lundmark stated, adding that Nokia anticipates North America to be stronger in the second half of the year. "India is our fastest-growing market with lower margins."
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Biocytogen Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd. ("Biocytogen", HKEX: 02315) today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Eucure (Beijing) Biopharma Co., Ltd. (Eucure Biopharma), has reached an exclusive licensing agreement with Chipscreen NewWay Biosciences (Chipscreen NewWay), a holding subsidiary of Shenzhen Chipscreen Biosciences Co., Ltd. (Chipscreen Biosciences, SSE: 688321) for the clinical development and commercialization of bispecific antibody YH008 in Greater China (including Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan). Eucure Biopharma retains YH008s global rights to develop and commercialize YH008 outside Greater China. Under the agreement, Chipscreen NewWay will pay Eucure Biopharma an upfront payment of 40 million RMB, a potential development milestone payment of up to 360 million RMB, a potential sales milestone payment of up to 196 million RMB, as well as tiered royalties on net sales.

YH008 is Biocytogens independently developed proprietary bispecific antibody for tumor immunotherapy. The IND application for a phase I study of YH008 was cleared by the US FDA and accepted by the Chinese NMPA.

Chipscreen Biosciences and Chipscreen NewWay have extensive experience in clinical drug development and commercialization, said Dr. Yuelei Shen, President and CEO of Biocytogen. With this agreement in place, we will work together to accelerate YH008s entry into the market to benefit patients.

Biocytogens YH008 has unique mechanisms and outstanding preclinical results, said Dr. Xianping Lu, CEO and President of Chipscreen Biosciences. This licensing agreement will expand Chipscreen NewWays pipeline in the field of antibody drugs and immuno-oncology. I look forward to these fruitful collaborations.

The unique mechanism of action of YH008 bring together the synergies of immune activation and immunosuppressive blockade, and can reduce toxic side effects and increase safety, said Dr. Bin Liu, Head of the Center of Antibody Early R&D at Chipscreen NewWay. The clinical potential of YH008 is worth looking forward to and it is a good addition to the products under development of Chipscreen NewWay. Chipscreen NewWay will rapidly advance the clinical stage research and development of YH008.

About YH008

YH008 is a bispecific antibody that exerts antagonistic and agonistic activities. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that YH008 can conditionally activate the immune pathway in the tumor microenvironment where certain tumor specific T cells are enriched to avoid systemic non-specific activation. Additionally, YH008 was engineered with an Fc-silent IgG1 isotype to avoid Fc-receptor-mediated non-specific immune activation. YH008 demonstrated superior anti-tumor activity when compared to parental monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) or combination therapy in syngeneic models. In vivo pharmacodynamic studies indicate that YH008 can activate tumor-infiltrating DCs and T cells. In addition, both in vivo studies and GLP toxicology studies indicate improved safety of YH008 compared with benchmark mAbs.

About Eucure Biopharma

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Biocytogen, Eucure Biopharma undertakes the mission of clinical development for Biocytogens R&D pipelines. Relying on a strong clinical development team and extensive clinical development experience, Eucure Biopharma focuses on antibody drug therapy for oncology and other indications. The company has established a product pipeline for more than 10 targets, with two products in launched phase II multi-regional clinical trials (MRCT) and two in phase I. For details, please visit https://www.eucure.com/en/index.

About Biocytogen

Biocytogen (HKEX: 02315) is a global biotechnology company that drives the research and development of novel antibody-based drugs with innovative technologies. Using its proprietary RenMabTM/RenLiteTM/RenNanoTM mice platforms for fully human monoclonal, bispecific/multispecific antibody and nanobody development, Biocytogen has integrated its in vivo drug efficacy screening platforms and strong clinical development expertise to streamline the entire drug development process. Biocytogen is undertaking a large-scale project to develop first-in-class and/or best-in-class antibody drugs for more than 1000 targets, known as Project Integrum. As of June 30, 2022, this project has resulted in 28 drug co-development agreements and 16 RenMiceTM licensing agreements with companies around the world, including several partnerships with multinational pharmaceutical companies (MNCs). Biocytogen's pipeline includes 12 core products, among which two products are in phase II multi-regional clinical trials and two products are in phase I. Headquartered in Beijing, Biocytogen has branches in Haimen Jiangsu, Shanghai, Boston, USA and Heidelberg, Germany. For more information, please visit http://en.biocytogen.com.cn.

About Chipscreen

In 2001, Chipscreen Biosciences was founded in Shenzhen, specializing in the research and development of original small molecule drugs. With the self-created "integrated drug discovery and early evaluation platform based on chemical genetics" as its core competitiveness, Chipscreen Biosciences has now become one of China's leading innovative drug enterprises, forming a modern biomedicine group company in Shenzhen, as its headquarters / research and development center / GMP production base, Chengdu, as a regional headquarter / research and development center / GMP production base, Beijing clinical research center and Shanghai commercial center. At present, the company has developed a number of original new drug product lines for tumors, diabetes, and endocrine and autoimmune diseases. In December 2014, the original anti-tumor new drug Chidamide was approved by the China Food and Drug Administration for marketing. Shenzhen Chipscreen Biosciences Co., Ltd. (Stock symbol: 688321.SH) has been listed on the SSE STAR Market on August 12, 2019.

About Chipscreen NewWay Biosciences

Chipscreen NewWay, affiliated with Chipscreen, is an innovative and R&D-driven biotech company dedicated to developing large molecules and other novel therapeutic modalities, including antibodies/ADC-centered large molecules, and nucleic acid drugs.

It develops innovative drugs that meet clinical needs and novel mechanisms of action in multiple therapeutic areas such as oncology and autoimmunity while providing patients with innovative mechanisms and globally leading-based new therapeutic approaches and options.

Chipscreen NewWay has built a large molecular R&D center of over 1,800 square meters in Chengdu Hi-Tech Zone and has established an experienced antibody and ADC R&D team from the discovery to the early process development, with a number of in-house and cooperation projects in continuous and rapid advancements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005377/en/
NTT DOCOMO, INC., a longtime promoter of the Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) concept, announced today that the company is now cooperating with five global telecom operators: KT Corporation (KT) in South Korea, Vodafone Group Plc (Vodafone) in Europe, Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) in the Philippines, DISH Wireless (DISH) in the United States and Singtel in Singapore on Open RAN initiatives.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005031/en/

OREX (Open RAN Ecosystem Experience) (Graphic: Business Wire)

KT and DOCOMO signed a memorandum of understanding in January 20221 to support Open RAN and are now verifying an Open RAN system. Smart successfully demonstrated Open RAN, a first in the Philippines. In addition, Vodafone and DOCOMO agreed in October 20222 to collaborate towards harmonizing mobile operator system integration and test processes. On February 3, the two firms published a white paper with a defined common test script.

Also, DISH plans to evaluate the product performance and stability of Open RAN at the Shared Open Lab, DOCOMO's Open RAN verification environment in Japan. Singtel and DOCOMO agreed to evaluate Open RAN technologies and explore an Open RAN introduction.

DOCOMO has also announced today that it has adopted the "OREXTM" (Open RAN Ecosystem Experience) brand to strengthen the support scheme for international telecom operators in delivering the Open RAN system. DOCOMO has been working with global vendors since 2021 to conduct technological collaboration.

Global interest continues to grow regarding Open RAN, which uses open and standardized wireless base-station specifications to enable the devices and systems of multiple telecom vendors to be interconnected in mobile networks. Operators that so far have been constructing networks incorporating devices from just a single vendor are now facing technical and verification challenges in their efforts to implement Open RAN. DOCOMO, as the world's only company to have constructed networks implemented with multiple vendors since the 4G era, is leveraging its expertise to support the Open RAN efforts of operators worldwide.

Vodafone, DISH, Singtel and DOCOMO will give a panel discussion entitled "On the Forefront of Open RAN Implementation" at MWC Barcelona 2023, the worlds largest mobile-related exhibition being held in Barcelona, Spain from February 27 to March 2.

Going forward, DOCOMO will continue to strengthen its cooperation with global partners under the OREX brand to make Open RAN a reality.

1 KT Corporation, NTT DOCOMO and Fujitsu Cooperate towards Test Facility Construction and Successful Interoperability Testing for Open RAN in Korea

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2022/0106_00.html

2 Vodafone and NTT DOCOMO sign MoU to cooperate to drive greater system integration and service efficiency in Open RAN

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2022/1025_00.html

OREX is a trademark of NTT DOCOMO, INC.

About NTT DOCOMO

NTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 86 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/

Appendix 1

Overview of OREX

Name

OREX (Open RAN Ecosystem Experience)

OREX Partners

1 AMD 2 Dell Technologies Japan Inc. 3 Fujitsu Limited 4 Hewlett Packard Japan, G.K. 5 Intel K.K. 6 Mavenir 7 NEC Corporation 8 NTT DATA Corporation 9 NVIDIA 10 Qualcomm Technologies 11 Red Hat 12 VMware K.K. 13 Wind River

Concept

NTT DOCOMO and OREX partners are now building an Open RAN ecosystem around the world to supply new wireless communications with multi-vendor interconnectivity experiences.

Appendix 2

Panel discussion at MWC Barcelona 2023

Title

On the Forefront of Open RAN Implementation

Date

Monday, February 27, 2023 from 15:45 to 16:15 (local time)

Venue

Broadcast Studio, Hall 4, MWC Barcelona 2023

Speakers

Mr. Sadayuki Abeta, OREX evangelist, NTT DOCOMO, INC.

Mr. Francisco Martin, Head of Open RAN, Vodafone Group Plc

Mr. Sidd Chenumolu, Vice President of Technology Development, DISH Wireless

Mr. Cheng Choon Si, VP of Technology, Strategy & Transformation, Singtel

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005031/en/
Juniper Networks (NYSE:JNPR), a leader in secure, AI-driven networks, will be attending this years Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, with a focus on its ability to deliver the network of the future now. This innovation helps customers to provide exceptional user experiences, streamline operational effectiveness and maximize cost efficiencies.

Juniper believes that the network of the future must be built and operated based on five key principles:

Open  to enable best-in-class solutions and ecosystems

Automated  to simplify multivendor networks and guarantee service quality

Cloudified  to deliver optimal agility and adaptability for resources and scale

Secure  to provide intelligence-led efficacy end-to-end without compromising throughput

Sustainable  to enable reduced resource consumption and extended lifecycles



Juniper in the News

NEC Launches Value-Added x-Haul Solution Suite with Open Ecosystem (February 16, 2023)

Juniper Networks Expands Collaboration with IBM to Bring Intelligent Automation to Radio Network Solutions (February 23, 2023)

Juniper Networks and Vodafone Deliver Successful First-of-its-Kind Open RAN RIC Trial on a Commercial Network, Highlighting Third-Party Apps Integration (February 23, 2023)

Tele Columbus Deploys Transformational Cloud Metro Infrastructure with Juniper Networks & NEC (February 27, 2023)

Juniper Demos at MWC

Four demos will be available on Junipers booth, covering specific solution and use case areas that enable service providers to design, build and operate (and each including inherent, threat-aware security capabilities), comprising:

Cloud-Delivered Mobile Transport Automation

Data Center Fabric Management and Telco Cloud

Open RAN Service Management & Orchestration and RIC

AI-Driven Enterprise Managed Services



Junipers innovative solutions will also be featured in joint demos on numerous partner booths:

Aira / AWS (Juniper RIC/rApp)  AWS booth, (Upper Walkway, South Entrance)

AMD (Juniper Connected Security)  (Hall 2 stand 2M61)

IBM (Juniper RIC)  (Hall 2 stand 2H20)

Microsoft (Juniper Connected Security)  (Hall 3 stand 3H30)

Wind River (Juniper Cloud-Native Router)  (Hall 2 stand 2F25)

Global Mobile Award Nominations

Junipers Cloud Metro solution has been shortlisted in the Cloud category of this years GLOMO Awards. This category-creating solution applies cloud principles to metro networks, enabling sustainable business growth with future-proof systems, architecture and AI-enabled automation as a service.

Juniper RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) has also been shortlisted as a key element within partner Rakuten Symphonys Symworld Platform submission in the Best Network Software Breakthrough category.

About Juniper Networks

Juniper Networks is dedicated to dramatically simplifying network operations and driving superior experiences for end users. Our solutions deliver industry-leading insight, automation, security and AI to drive real business results. We believe that powering connections will bring us closer together while empowering us all to solve the worlds greatest challenges of well-being, sustainability and equality. Additional information can be found at Juniper Networks (www.juniper.net) or connect with Juniper on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Juniper Networks, the Juniper Networks logo, Juniper, Junos, and other trademarks listed here are registered trademarks of Juniper Networks, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and other countries. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005356/en/
Alpha Blue Ocean (ABO), based in the Bahamas and Dubai, has announced the launch of a new private investment firm, ABO Digital, that will provide alternative financing solutions to early-stage and high-growth companies in the digital asset space.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005157/en/

Alpha Blue Ocean (ABO) DIGITAL (Graphic: AETOSWire)

Leveraging ABO's experience as a structured Private Investments in Public Equity (PIPE) investor with more than US$2 billion in executed financing commitments globally over the last five years, the new ABO Digital will bring institutional-grade expertise to the digital asset and blockchain industry.

ABO Digital will provide innovative and flexible funding solutions that will give blockchain projects access to more options for raising capital. This new form of financing addresses a need in the cryptocurrency market, especially given the current market conditions.

Amine Nedjai, CEO at ABO Digital, said: "This is an important time for the digital asset space. We're in the midst of a bear market but there continues to be solid development by innovative protocols. A lot of large investors, such as venture capitalists, will have suffered losses from the recent crypto credit contagion. This reduces the pool of available growth capital for cryptocurrency projects that ABO Digital will help fill. We see an interesting development in gaming as projects are working on more sustainable tokenomics, which can help drive adoption as well as the practical use of non-fungible tokens. We expect DeFi to continue capturing attention in this space, proving its robustness through the current crisis whilst continuing to innovate and find pragmatic solutions - such as access to liquidity for stakers of ETH. This difficult market situation, coupled with our positive outlook, makes it the perfect time to launch ABO Digital, enabling entities in this exciting space to source the funds they need to build."

The timely launch of ABO Digital aligns with expectations for the digital asset space to come out of this crisis stronger in the next cycle. With a few major players that have dominated the investment space over the last few years, ABO Digital brings a fresh experience and an alternative way for projects to fund their development and expansion.

To find out more about ABO Digital, visit www.abodigital.io

*Source: AETOSWire

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005157/en/
The phenomenon of Palestinian teen terrorists By Yoni Ben Menachem

web posted February 27, 2023 The participation of Palestinian teens in acts of terrorism against Israel is not new. Palestinian terror organizations were training children as early as 1970. More recently, the phenomenon was witnessed in the First Lebanon War in 1982 when IDF soldiers encountered Palestinian youth sent by the PLO to shoot RPG rockets at them. They later received the nickname RPG children. Their actions as combatants continued in the Second Intifada in 2004 and during the knife intifada in 2015. In recent weeks, this spectacle has resurfaced in eastern Jerusalem. So far, three Palestinian youths have carried out attacks against Israelis. In one case,13-year-old Muhammad Aliwat carried out a shooting attack at Israeli civilians in the village of Silwan in eastern Jerusalem. Security officials in Israel are very concerned about the renewal of this phenomenon. These attacks usually take place in the Old City or the Jewish neighborhoods adjacent to eastern Jerusalem against Israeli citizens and members of the security forces. The attackers have received the nickname in Arabic Ashbal al-Quds (boys of Jerusalem), and they have become the new heroes of the Palestinians struggle against Israel. The young generation sees Israel as an enemy that must be defeated through acts of terror and jihad. Its new heroes are the terrorists Udai Altamimi, who murdered IDF soldier Noa Lazar at the Shuafat checkpoint; Khairy Alkam, who carried out the massacre in the Neve Yaakov neighborhood in Jerusalem; Fadi Abu Shchiedem, a schoolteacher who murdered Israeli Eli Kay in the Old City; and Misbach Abu Sbeich, who murdered two Israelis in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood in 2016 and whom the Palestinians call the Lion of Jerusalem. According to security officials, the participation of Palestinian teens in terrorist activities may increase toward the month of Ramadan. The Palestinians give different explanations for the terrorist phenomenon of the youth who joined the latest wave of violence, and they shift the blame to Israel. They blame Israel for provoking the Palestinians with its actions at the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and for what they see as neglect by the Jerusalem Municipality of the eastern neighborhoods. They are outraged over the demolitions of illegal houses and the measures the IDF is taking against armed terrorist groups. However, the actual reasons for the recent renewal of this phenomenon stem from the following: Wild incitement by the Palestinian Authority and the terrorist organizations against Israel and Jews on social networks, especially on Tik Tok and Instagram. In the security establishment, inciting videos on social networks are called terrorist porn  shocking images of Palestinian deaths in Jenin and Nablus, Israeli bombings in Gaza, Israeli citizens praying on the Temple Mount, and videos of Palestinian terrorists presented as heroes. Incitement in the education system and home education. About 200 schools operate in eastern Jerusalem. Most of them follow the PAs curriculum that emphasizes the Palestinian narrative of the Nakba, ignores the existence of the State of Israel and the Oslo Accords, and emphasizes the importance of al-Quds (Jerusalem) and the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the struggle against Israel. Palestinian parents contribute to the incitement and instill in their children a shocking hatred of Israel and Jews. They do not guard their children against incitement. On the contrary, they encourage the culture of death in their children, celebrate the death of every child and teenager killed during an attack, and declare him a martyr. The Israeli concern now is the expansion of the phenomenon toward the month of Ramadan (March 22April 20, 2023), when Palestinian youth may unleash attacks full of hatred and commit to taking revenge on the Israelis for the deaths of Palestinian terrorists at the hands of the security forces. They claim they are acting in the name of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa, and most want to become local heroes and bring honor to their families. The religious leaders in eastern Jerusalem support this phenomenon, and the public leaders there and PA officials refrain from removing children from the circle of terror. For them, all means are acceptable to fight against Israel: the children are brainwashed with a broad and warped social consensus and religious legitimacy. They cross the barrier of fear with false promises that they will reach heaven. Home
Kurt Vonnegut's Player Piano and the declining dignity of work By Thomas M. Sipos

web posted February 27, 2023 Although published in 1952, Kurt Vonnegut's dystopian novel, Player Piano, serves as a prescient satire of current day America and a foreboding prediction of what lies ahead. Seemingly influenced by Fritz Lang's Metropolis and foreshadowing The Twilight Zone's "The Brian Center at Whipple's," Player Piano paints a future America where a technocratic oligarchy has established a corporate command economy and cradle-to-grave socialism. The leaders think they've created a utopia but the proles disagree. One big problem is that advancing technology makes more people useless every day. Retraining is no answer; even engineers are being replaced by computers. Society has become a player piano, creating flawless music without aid of human hands. But this Social Darwinism is not untempered. The useless do not go homeless and hungry. On the contrary, everyone's basic needs are met: per-fabricated homes, washers, TV, even free national health care. And twelve years of free education, which is pretty pointless, as most people graduate to idleness. Well, not quite idleness. Those with top test scores enjoy free college, then join the ever-diminishing ranks of engineers and managers. They run those computers. The less-brainy majority must choose between the Army or the Reconstruction & Reclamation Corps (aka, the Reeks & Wrecks), and begin a life of menial make-work rather than real jobs. Yes, that includes the Army. Wars are primarily fought with machines, so millions of soldiers remain idle in the US, training with wooden guns. Only those stationed safely abroad are trusted with real guns. The less-gifted wealthy can go to private college, though I'm not sure what they'd become in this meritocracy. Perhaps politicians. It's a perfect niche for privileged idiots because Player Piano's America enjoys complete separation of politics and power. Elections are free, but elected officials are impotent PR shills. The President is a goofy dunderhead whose main job is telling everyone how great things are, while publicly "ooooing" and "aaaahing" over the engineers' latest computer. It's a job even a Joe Biden could do... oh, wait. Despite their safety net, men feel useless and miserable because they're paid for undignified make-work. Women feel useless because of all those kitchen appliances, and miserable because they're married to losers. With few exceptions (entertainer, athlete, politician), it's mostly engineers and managers who enjoy meaningful work and its accompanying dignity. They also earn more money, but it's the dignity that the useless majority envies. Player Piano has an anti-materialist theme. Despite calling himself a socialist, Vonnegut has written a novel in which free health care does not guarantee happiness. Player Piano's technocratic America is the legacy of a war that had put engineers and managers in charge of a command economy, creating a permanent centralization of corporate and government power over the economy and security forces. Vonnegut's book was doubtless inspired by America's command economy during World War Two, but libertarians have long noted that "War is the health of the state." Even "good wars" invariably expand government and diminish liberties. Player Piano could easily be describing modern America. Technology and outsourcing are relegating ever more people to menial, government-subsidized work. (Wal-Mart reputedly advises employees on how to obtain food stamps to supplement their paychecks.) And Covid has increased demands for handouts, stimulus checks, Medicare for all, reparations, and guaranteed income payments. In Player Piano, "anti-machine" books are banned for encouraging terrorism. In modern America, anti-woke books and videos are deplatformed from Amazon and YouTube. Both Americas, ours and Player Piano's, are characterized by rising federal surveillance and harassment (or "canceling") of dissidents. In Player Piano, politicians are simpleton mouthpieces for national security officials and technocratic oligarchs. In modern America, well, ditto. After the fall of the Soviet Union, our Neocons imagined that we had reached the end of history. So too Player Piano's leaders. Their last war is referred to as The Last War. America's high-tech weapons and economy dominate the globe. Yet freedom does not abound in the U.S. A visiting autocrat, hosted by the State Department, mistakes average Americans for slaves. Yes, Player Piano fails on a few predictions. Vonnegut didn't foresee so many women in the workforce. And he failed to predict that so many Americans would want to be paid for doing nothing. His novel is informed by an American work ethic that died even as automation made labor less arduous. Vonnegut has written that during the Great Depression, his neighbors threw a party whenever anyone found a job. It didn't matter what the job was. However menial, a job was cause for celebration. That work ethic permeates Player Piano. One worker is ecstatic at the chance to fix a car. He says it was the first time he felt useful in a long time. Vonnegut regards himself as a man of the left, but many libertarians, objectivists, and conservatives admire his work. Libertarians like that he's antiwar and distrusts government. Objectivists enjoy his atheism and Bokononist satire of religion. Conservatives discern a patriotic nostalgia for small town America in some of his work. With a little updating, Player Piano could make a fine film satire of modern America. Vonnegut's never been adapted effectively to the big screen, though he was reportedly pleased with Slaughterhouse-Five's film version. The problem is that his greatest strength is not his plots or characters, but his unique authorial voice. Mother Night was adapted with unusual faithfulness to the plot, yet the film was dreary and grim, unlike the often hilarious book. Player Piano shouldn't have this problem. It was Vonnegut's first novel, his voice still undeveloped and not yet evident, so the book's merits are not based on something unfilmable. Unfortunately, a critique is not a solution. I don't know what can be done about automation or the outsourcing of jobs. Socialism breeds poverty, corruption, nepotism, and ethnic clashes. Protectionism leads to trade wars, and then, say some, to shooting wars. What we have today -- a sort of statist crony corporatism -- produces government favoritism for politically-connected insiders, resulting in legalized cartels and monopolies. And a free market exports good jobs to the lowest foreign bidder. Good for consumers and foreign workers. Bad for small business owners, domestic workers and their human dignity. Player Piano is ultimately about the dignity of work and self-reliance, and how automation and welfare capitalism rob men of that dignity. Like many satirists, Vonnegut is better at identifying and ridiculing a problem than in offering a solution. Player Piano ends on a pessimistic note. That might be because some problems have no solution. Thomas M. Sipos writes horror fiction, satire, and film reviews. His website is http://www.CommunistVampires.com/ Home
As porn gets worse and Democrats embrace it, one newer group has a novel approach to combat it

By Rachel Alexander

web posted February 27, 2023

Efforts to decrease the use of porn have gone nowhere in recent years, and instead its use has skyrocketed due to the internet. Its estimated that 91.5% of men and 60.2% of women consume porn. In 2019, for the first time a majority of Democrats said they found it morally acceptable, 53%. Only 27% of Republicans do. Progressives refer to ethical porn and say we merely need porn literacy. But porn damages the participants, the viewers, their partners and families; its become an epidemic that cannot be ignored.

The left promotes the attitude of doing whatever you want sexually by labeling it freedom, but completely ignores all the damage porn does to its victims. Many of the women exploited are fooled into thinking its harmless.

Considering traditional efforts to curtail the addictive habit have mostly failed, a new approach has emerged at Fight the New Drug (FTND). Although founded by two Mormons, its not religious, and it avoids shame. The focus is science, and it is sex positive and freedom-preserving. With a theme of Porn kills love, FTND doesnt even attempt to ban porn.

FTND co-founder Clay Olsen said were only now discovering the full extent of how harmful porn is, similar to how it took many years to learn how bad tobacco was.

FTND has made three short films on the harms of pornography. Michael Cook, the editor of MercatorNet who viewed them, said the stories by former porn stars were almost unbearably painful to watch. He said the third film shows how pornography, prostitution and sex trafficking are all linked in a symbiotic relationship. One of the former porn stars said, I had to go to work to do the porn, so that I could buy the drugs to bury the pain of doing the porn.

A man who was addicted to porn admitted about trying to have a relationship, I was physically attracted to her, but I was so conditioned to watch pornography and looking at a computer screen that being with a real person wasnt enough anymore.

Brain scans have shown that pornography has the same effect on the brain as cocaine. FTND states that there are 35 neuroscience-based studies using a variety of brain imaging technologies (MRI, fMRI, EEG, etc.) that provide solid support for the reality of internet porn addiction. A recent survey found that nearly one in five regular pornography watchers felt controlled by their own sexual desires.

A bombshell story in TIME Magazine in 2016 found that A growing number of young men are convinced that their sexual responses have been sabotaged because their brains were virtually marinated in porn when they were adolescents. Because young brains are so malleable, the men believe their brains were affected far worse than if they had become addicted later in life.

Unfortunately for porn addicts, the more porn men consume, the smaller the reward center of the brain, a study from the Max Planck Institute found. It dulls the reward system.

One woman said she was so addicted to porn by age 18 that it cost her parents $40,000 for treatment to break the habit. Another woman said just viewing it three times as a preteen was enough to get her obsessively addicted. Samuel D. James, writing for First Things, noted the cost porn has on teenage girls, who go to extreme measures to keep up with airbrushed perfection and tolerate rougher, more degrading sexual encounters in their teens.

Its estimated that 25% of Google searches are for porn. Porn sites receive more website traffic in the U.S. than Twitter, Instagram, Netflix, Pinterest and LinkedIn combined. More than a dozen states in the US declared pornography a public health crisis in 2019. According to FTNDs Jerome Alexander, Hollywood produces about 3,000 movies a year; the porn industry films around 12,000.

FTND points out that times have changed, A couple of ratty old centerfold magazines found in the park are nothing compared to the hardcore, high-definition videos that minors have access to today. Studies found that as few as one in three and as many as nine in 10 scenes show acts of physical aggression or violence, while about half contain verbal aggression.

The studies also found that women are the targets 97% of the time, and 95% of the targets of violence or aggression appeared either neutral or appeared to respond with pleasure. One out of every eight porn titles shown to first-time visitors to porn sites described acts of sexual violence. A UK survey of 22,000 women found that 16% reported having been forced or coerced to perform sex acts the other person had seen in porn. Increased pornography consumption has been found to be associated with the enjoyment of degrading, uncommon or aggressive sexual behaviors.

The meaning of hardcore porn has changed from sexual intercourse to sadomasochistic themes involving scripts fusing sex with hatred and humiliation, according to Dr. Norman Doidge, a neuroscientist and author of The Brain That Changes Itself.

Porn usage surged during the COVID-19 pandemic. One pornographic site found that the more restrictive the COVID rules, the greater the increase in porn viewership.

FTND has many tools and programs to combat the abuse and help people overcome their addiction. The Utah Coalition Against Pornography runs the largest anti-porn conference in the U.S. annually, with nearly 3,000 attending. But as long as the left pushes back trying to normalize and preserve porn, its going to be a mammoth task to reduce this harmful addiction.

John Stonestreet and Shane Morris writing at Breakpoint said porn cannot be made tamer. Porn is premised on the notion that human beings can be abstracted from their personhood and consumed as collections of body parts, they stated. Porn assumes and trains consumers to believe that people are products to be bought and sold, and then discarded with the click of a mouse or the flick of a finger.
Epidemiology is a method for determining the causes of illness and the health consequences for people. Epidemiologists are public health specialists who investigate the causes and symptoms of medical conditions and disabilities in individuals. They hope to lessen the likelihood and frequency of unfavourable health outcomes through research, community engagement, and public health.

Responsibilities of an Epidemiologist

Create and put into action methods and systems for gathering, assembling, synthesising, extracting, and reporting information.

Create statistical analysis plans, then execute and oversee analysis.

In a global context, provide critical analysis and thinking guidance, and suggestions on challenges based on an established scientific understanding of infectious and emerging illnesses.

While analysing data, use specialised statistical tools. Bring statistical insight into the interpretation and discussion of study findings.

Contribute to research reports by authoring one or supervising others.

Analyze results should be communicated through presentations and publications.

Career Opportunities in Epidemiology

Community Health Workers

Health Workers are an important part of the field of epidemiology because they are responsible for interacting with the community, gathering, investigating, and investigating various sicknesses and illnesses common in the community, providing health and safety exercises and processes to the general population, and implementing specific means to advance enhanced ways of life.

Specialty Epidemiologist

While epidemiologists do not work with isolated people, illnesses and ailments can be common in many networks. Further investigation, inquiry, and discovery of credible nuances of specific illnesses can aid in combating and rehabilitating those suffering from unique infections, which can also be fatal.

Health Workers

Health Workers are an important part of the field of epidemiology because they are responsible for interacting with the community, gathering, investigating, and investigating various sicknesses and illnesses common in the community, providing health and safety exercises and processes to the general population, and implementing specific means to advance enhanced ways of life.

Specialty Epidemiologist

While epidemiologists do not work with isolated people, illnesses and ailments can be common in many networks.

Further investigation, inquiry, and discovery of credible nuances of specific illnesses can aid in combating and rehabilitating those suffering from unique infections, which can also be fatal.

Survey Researchers

Survey researchers gather and report data to produce meaningful results and information. The data comes from ongoing research on medical issues in society, as assigned by the government or a commercial organisation.

Medical Epidemiologists

Medical epidemiologists examine clinical biology and look for potential solutions for acute and chronic illnesses. They may also establish public health services to combat sickness. This type of position necessitates an understanding of clinical medicine. To practice medicine, medical epidemiologists must first get a medical degree, such as a Doctor of Medicine (MD). This differs from other sorts of epidemiologists in that an MD is not normally necessary.

Pharmacist Epidemiologist

The responsibilities of a Pharmaceutical Epidemiologist involve researching the causes, effects, and spread of substance usage, as well as the circumstances that contribute to this scenario in society. The impacts and influence of medications on human health and physiology are studied by pharmaceutical epidemiologists. They serve a vital role in keeping a record of social trends and practices that can propagate the disease's worsening status.

Field Epidemiologists

Field epidemiologists work on the ground in populations experiencing severe, acute issues with public health. They are typically unanticipated and major situations that necessitate public health specialists to travel to the location and provide immediate assistance. As a result, the nature of their work may differ from that of other types of epidemiology. Before doing quantitative research, they rely on descriptive studies to generate theories.
Brand management is the process of developing and sustaining a strong, solid reputation. This includes creating and managing the vision, identity, and image of your brand. You will define and establish relationships with customers, workers, partners, and stakeholders as a brand manager. Brand management is a strategic process in which your marketing concept is integrated with the entire corporate strategy.

Every corporation seeks to brand its goods following consumer preferences so that its product is the most marketable. Branding is the art of branding your product uniquely. The Brand Manager is an important player in the branding process. Therefore today we're going to tell you how to get a position in this industry.

Today's modern era is such that 'what looks, sells itself'. In such an age of competition, in today's competitive era, all small and large organisations are utilising branding to propel their products forward and are working to complete these duties, the company's brand manager and the branding executive team.

Career Opportunities in Brand Management

Marketing Executive

This is the most novice position in the brand management field.

You will be in charge of marketing initiatives to promote products and services as a marketing executive. A marketing executive's responsibilities can include intellectual, statistical, technological, economic, and organizational duties.

Brand Managers

Brand managers must support and collaborate with the team's marketing analyst and assistant brand managers. To witness the company's development, the brand manager must plan and execute initiatives effectively. A brand manager is in charge of making significant choices in marketing and sales.

Marketing Director

The marketing director is considered to be a high-level management that makes all company-wide strategic choices. A Marketing director is in charge of making various decisions concerning product, sales, advertising, and brand communications.

Luxury Brand Manager

Luxury Brand Managers are in charge of sustaining premium brands' communication and pattern in India.

They are in charge of conducting market research and determining the price and profitability of goods and services. They are in charge of coming up with names for current brands as well as supervising the launch of new brands.

R&D Manager

The Research and Development Manager is in charge of creating and delivering new goods and services. They are also in charge of evaluating the products and making concurrent adjustments that will help the company in revenue terms.

Marketing Analyst

A marketing analyst's role is to carefully analyse the market, the competitiveness of the company for which he or she works, and the behaviour of the 's future or target market.A company's market analyst assists it in making decisions about which item or service it wants to sell, to which part of the client determines the intended audience, and the price at which the good or service will be made accessible to prospective customers.
Well, it took Geely Philippines long enough. About two years after we said they needed a sub-compact crossover to penetrate the local market...
Frances 48th Cesar Awards were held on Friday evening, where Michaela Pavlatovas My Sunny Maad added another major award to its mantle after winning best animated feature.

My Sunny Maad is Oscar-nominated filmmaker Pavlatovas feature debut. It won numerous prizes at international festivals including the jury award at Annecy 2021, best international feature at Bucheon 2021, and best feature at Animafest Zagreb 2022.

Sadly, the film never got a U.S. theatrical run but Totem Films handles global sales and Diaphana Distribution did release the film in France. It was produced by Negativ Film, Sacrebleu Productions, and Bfilm.
Dangote Cement names new CEO

27 February 2023

Dangote Cement Plc has named Arvind Pathak as the companys new chief executive/managing director. Mr Pathak will replace Frenchman Michel Puchercos, who will leave at the end of February after three years at the helm.

The new CEOs tenure begins on 1 March. Mr Pathak led Indias Birla Corp before he became the chief operating officer and deputy managing director of Dangote Cement. He formerly served at Mumbai-based Associated Cement Co Ltd as regional CEO and has experience spanning more than 30 years, which includes transforming businesses, spearheading crucial greenfield projects, as well as overseeing operations and plant maintenance.

The appointment of Mr Arvind Pathak will be included in the Agenda at the next Annual General Meeting for ratification by the shareholders in accordance with the Companies and Allied Matters Act, Dangote Cement said.

Published under
The United States Energy Department released a report that assessed that the origin of the coronavirus pandemic could be traced back to a laboratory leak in China.

On Sunday, it was reported that the US Energy Department updated its assessment of how the COVID-19 crisis started. Previously, authorities were undecided on the virus's origin, but they have not decided that the lab-leak theory is the most likely explanation.

COVID-19 Origins

Furthermore, officials shared an updated assessment, which they had low confidence in, in a classified intelligence report that they gave to the White House and key lawmakers-the update resulted in the Energy Department joining the FBI in supporting the lab-leak COVID-19 origin theory.

On the other hand, four agencies and a national intelligence panel believe that the virus resulted from the natural transmission, while two remained undecided. The origin of the health crisis has been the subject of hot debate for several years since its beginning, as per Fortune.

Health officials first reported the coronavirus circulating in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, and the city is known to have many laboratories, including the Wuhan Institute of Virology. It is the Chinese counterpart of the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The area also housed the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products, the center of Beijing's coronavirus research. Many of the institute's laboratories were created and expanded after the SARS epidemic in the early 2000s.

But the city, like many others in the Asian nation, the city was home to many wet markets where animals were slaughtered and sold to customers. Various scientific experts support the theory that the coronavirus infection began in one of these markets.

Read Also: COVID-19 Vaccine Reduces Chances of Cardiovascular Issues

Support For Lab Leak Theory

Despite the changed assessment, officials still need to provide details on the intelligence that led to it. However, many of the insights of the Energy Department come from the network of national laboratories that it oversees, according to the New York Times.

The situation comes as intelligence officials argue that scrutiny of the origin of the health crisis is crucial to improving global health response to new concerns. However, they cautioned that finding a concrete answer regarding the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic is difficult or impossible due to China's refusal to allow further research.

Health experts said that there is a responsibility to explain the origin of a health crisis that took the lives of nearly seven million people worldwide. They added that learning more about its beginnings could help researchers understand what future outbreaks would come from.

The United States National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, declined to comment regarding the agency's intelligence. However, he noted that President Joe Biden ordered national laboratories to be included in determining the COVID-19 pandemic's origins.

He wanted to put effort and resources behind the endeavor to get to the bottom of this situation and get results. According to Yahoo News, Sullivan noted that if they gain any further insight or information, they will share it with Congress and the American people.

Related Article: New Bird Flu Cases in Cambodia

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FRIDAY, Feb. 24, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- People living in heavily polluted areas of the United States may be more vulnerable to Parkinsons disease, a new study suggests.

Specifically, the culprit is a type of air pollution called fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is less than 2.5 microns in diameter and comes from car exhaust, burning of fuels in power plants and other industries, and forest and grass fires, researchers say.

"We found an association between Parkinsons disease and exposure to fine particulate matter. In specific, people in the highest exposure have a 25% greater risk of Parkinsons disease compared to people with the lowest exposure," said lead researcher Brittany Krzyzanowski, from the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Ariz.

"We also found that the regions with the strongest association between particulate matter and Parkinsons disease were the Mississippi-Ohio River Valley and the Rocky Mountain region," she said.

"Our findings suggest that the regional differences in Parkinsons disease might reflect that the composition of the particulate matter in some areas may be more toxic than others," Krzyzanowski added. "We know that air pollution causes inflammation in the brain, which is linked to Parkinsons disease."

Krzyzanowski said that lowering levels of air pollution might help lower the risk of Parkinson's, especially in areas where pollution levels are high.

"Despite 30 years of research trying to identify the environmental risk factors of Parkinsons disease, most efforts have focused on exposure to pesticides," she said. "Our work suggests that air pollution may be a key contributor in the development of Parkinsons disease."

For the study, Krzyzanowski and her colleagues collected data on more than 22.5 million Medicare patients in 2009. Of these, nearly 84,000 had Parkinsons disease. The research team mapped where the participants lived and calculated the rates of Parkinsons disease for various regions. They also calculated average air pollution levels.

The investigators found that 434 people per 100,000 who were exposed to the highest levels of PM2.5 developed Parkinson's disease, compared with 359 per 100,000 among those who lived in areas with the lowest levels of PM2.5.

After taking into account other risks for Parkinson's  such as age, smoking and use of medical care  the researchers found that people with the highest exposure to air pollution had a 25% increased risk of Parkinsons disease, compared to people with the lowest exposure.

The strongest association was in the Rocky Mountain region, including Lake County, Colo., southwest of Denver and its surrounding counties. The risk for Parkinsons in those counties increased by 16% when moving up from one level of fine particulate matter exposure to the next level, the findings showed.

Air pollution was also linked with higher rates of Parkinsons in the Mississippi-Ohio River Valley, which includes Tennessee and Kentucky, but the association was weaker, with a 4% increase in risk when moving up one level of fine particulate matter exposure to the next, the research group found.

The findings are scheduled for presentation April 22 at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Neurology, in Boston. Findings presented at medical meetings should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

While the association found in the study does not prove a cause-and-effect link, one expert thinks the association between air pollution and the risk for Parkinson's disease needs to be seriously considered.

"The idea that a hotspot in the Mississippi-Ohio River Valley was potentially associated with increasing the risk of Parkinsons disease by 25% is staggering," said Dr. Michael Okun, a medical advisor to the Parkinsons Foundation and director of the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at the University of Florida Health, in Gainesville.

"The identification of Parkinsons disease 'hot spots,' which could help us understand how the environment contributes to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, may provide another critical piece to the environmental risk factor puzzle," Okun said.

More information

For more on Parkinson's, head to the Parkinson's Foundation.

SOURCES: Brittany Krzyzanowski, PhD, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Ariz.; Michael Okun, MD, medical advisor, Parkinsons Foundation, and director, Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases, University of Florida Health, Gainesville; April 22, 2023, presentation, American Academy of Neurology annual meeting, Boston
GOP chairwoman Ronna McDaniel claimed that the Republican Party will unite in the 2024 presidential elections and argued that former President Donald Trump would accept the result of voting despite a contrasting reality.

The right-wing lawmaker's remarks were made during an interview on Sunday and included her claims that candidates would support one another. It was her first interview since last month's contentious re-election.

Ronna McDaniel's Outreaching Claims

McDaniel seemed desperate to present a mission of unity of her party, saying that they cannot be "vicious" and "vitriolic" with each other, not to support others in the end. She added that she was already working on unifying the Republican Party.

Then, the GOP chair made several claims, including that all Republican candidates for the 2024 presidential election will sign a pledge to support the eventual nominee before they are allowed to appear on the debate stage.

She said that everyone should support the will of others and noted that the GOP would not be able to defeat President Joe Biden if they squabbled amongst each other. As per the Daily Beast, this was her reason for trying to mediate the situation early on.

However, not everyone in the Republican Party agrees with McDaniel's statements, as multiple prominent GOP members have refused to support Trump if he successfully becomes the party's 2024 nominee.

However, the most notable of these is Trump, whom earlier this month told Hugh Hewitt that his potential support "would depend on the nominee," similar to how it was in 2016. However, McDaniel was skeptical, saying that the former president would sign the pledge and attend the debate.

She said that Trump would prefer to be on the debate stage moving forward with his 2024 campaign. However, this is not the case as the former president became famous for not attending two primary debates in the 2016 run, saying that he did not like Megyn Kelly and was disinterested in debating John Kasich.

Read Also: Tennessee's Ban on Gender-Reaffirming Surgeries

Republican Party's 2024 Primary

While McDaniel said that GOP candidates would have to sign the pledge commitment, she noted that they have not yet put the criteria out for the debate as a whole. According to CNN, she was then asked what other requirements candidates should have to be included in the debate stage.

She said these candidates should aim to become the president of the United States, not lawmakers who only want book deals, media contracts, or Cabinet positions. So far, GOP members who have officially announced their 2024 runs are Trump, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy.

However, several others are showing interest in becoming the Republican Party's 2024 nominee. These include Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former Vice President Mike Pence, and Trump's former secretary of state, Mike Pompeo.

The claim that Republican candidates will accept the results of elections also contrasts with McDaniel's successor as Michigan's GOP chairperson being viewed as an election denier. Furthermore, the speaker of CPAC's prestigious Ronald Reagan Dinner, Kari Lake, continuously claimed otherwise about election results, said Yahoo News.

Related Article: Florida Lawmakers Seek Ban on Gender Studies Majors

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Police said a man carjacked a CARTA bus early Sunday morning and robbed a passenger.

At 12:50 a.m., Chattanooga Police were alerted to a CARTA bus that had been carjacked. Police located the bus at the 1000 block of Market Street where they stopped it and took 45-year-old Chadrick Weaver into custody.

Police were told that the suspect got onto the bus on Brainerd Road. After a few stops Weaver produced a shotgun and robbed a passenger on the bus. He had the driver drive downtown where the bus was intercepted by police.

No one was injured during the carjacking.

Weaver was charged with aggravated robbery, carjacking, aggravated kidnapping and weapons charges.
Currently, there is pending legislation in the General Assembly that would expand education savings accounts, Tennessees neo-voucher program, to municipalities including Hamilton County.

There are numerous unanswered questions surrounding education savings accounts.

Should they in all practicality be viewed as additional tax expenditures?

How must these funds be spent, attendance at a school or any general education purpose?

Are these funds available to current private school students and is it permissible to spend these funds in private school settings?

Most importantly, what will be the accountability measures in order to accurately gauge sound fiscal management and academic progress?

The Unity Group is firm in its opposition to this legislation. The following resolution, closely aligned to public data conveyed by the Southern Education Foundation, outlines our position on these pending bills.

Anti-School Privatization and ESA Expansion

WHEREAS, the Tennessee constitution outlines its responsibility to provide a free local system of public education, with no mention of using taxpayer funds to maintain or support private schools; and

WHEREAS, research shows that school vouchers have not been effective at improving student achievement or closing the achievement gap, with the most credible research finding little or no difference in voucher and public school students performance; and

WHEREAS, vouchers often do not cover the full cost of tuition or transportation costs and therefore do not actually support all families and students equally, especially students from low income families, in having the option to attend private schools, thereby exacerbating inequality; and

WHEREAS, federal and state law supports families in exercising school choice within the existing public school system, such as charter schools, magnet schools, or other traditional public schools including in the event a student is zoned to attend a chronically underperforming school; and

WHEREAS, vouchers eliminate public accountability and transparency in a number of ways. These include, but are not limited to, channeling tax dollars into private schools that are not required to meet the state-approved academic standards, are not required to make budgets public, do not adhere to open meetings and records laws, do not elect local school board members, do not publicly report on student achievement, and do not face the public accountability requirements or anti-discrimination laws contained in federal and state laws, including special education; and



WHEREAS, vouchers are an inefficient use of taxpayer money because they spread limited taxpayer funds and resources to support two school systems: one public and one private, the latter of which is not accountable to all the taxpayers supporting it; and



WHEREAS, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, students with disabilities are already entitled to attend private schools or receive private services with the full cost of tuition covered when the public school is unable to provide services that meet a students need; and



WHEREAS, students with disabilities are done a disservice by being given a voucher or education savings account to cover just a portion of the cost in exchange for waiving their civil right to a free appropriate public education; and



NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Unity Group of Chattanooga in solidarity with the Southern Education Foundation and other concerned education groups in opposing legislation or other similar efforts to create a voucher program in Tennessee that would divert public taxpayers dollars for private schools and calls on the Tennessee General Assembly to phase out any existing private school voucher programs and to ban the use of public funds for any future school voucher, or similar programs, in the state.



Unity Group of Chattanooga

Eric Atkins Co-Chair

Pastor Charlotte S.N.N. Williams, Co-Chair










Politics is a dirty game.

I found this out in a special way over the past few weeks as Ive dealt with state legislators who seemed pro-life and willing to courageously stand for our most vulnerable, yet when push comes to shove they buckle.

Lets start with some facts.

Our Human Life Protection Act bans abortion from conception. It contains an affirmative defense clause for doctors who are suspected to have done an abortion illegally. It is worth noting that our pre-Roe ban also contained language like this and zero doctors were charged. It contains robust protections for children conceived in rape and incest. To date, this law have saved over 900 lives per month. This is truly a step forward in the fight to ensure that prenatal people are given full human rights.

However, this does not stop the Abortion Industrial Complex from seeking to once again do their genocidal work in our state and this time, they have yet another ally - the AMA or American Misinformation Association. (Actually, its the American Medical Association, but who's counting?)

Its crucial to understand that the AMA represents the powerful medical lobby - run by the people who own and operate the places where abortion procedures would likely take place if our law is weakened - the hospitals.

The AMA has spent over $25.5 million in lobbying efforts, much of which includes weakening our law. Why? Not because the medical community is deeply concerned with the health and safety of women, not because they disagree with the established medical fact that human life begins at conception. No, the AMA is in this for profit.

It is shameful and disheartening to see organizations that are supposed to be advocating for life-saving patient care turn their backs on the unborn.

Whats perhaps even more shameful is the fact that our own supposedly pro-life state legislators, two of which are from Chattanooga, are giving in to Big Abortion and the Medical Lobby and then telling their constituents they oppose elective abortion. Anyone who reads HB 883 will know this claim is patently ridiculous.

This bill does much more than clarify. It creates opportunities for the law to be abused by those physicians who abort unborn children. The broad language would make the Human Life Protection Act in Tennessee law basically unenforceable.

We do not oppose legislation to clarify for situations such as the life of the mother, ectopic pregnancy, and miscarriage, but HB883 does much more than that and therefore must be stopped.

Deleting large sections of the current code, adding dangerously broad incompatible with life language, and allowing a medical board to pre-determine whether a physician has violated the law are all included in this bill. That is more than clarifying. HB883 takes a 2-page law and makes it a 9-page exception.

Tennesseans have worked hard to make our state a safe place for unborn children and their mothers. The Human Life Protection Act is working as legislators and Tennesseans intended.

And therein lies the problem, friends.

Our elected officials assume we dont read the legislation. They think were stupid.

Lets prove them wrong. Lets protect the most vulnerable.

Call them out. Make them withdraw these disastrous bills and vote them out in favor of a truly pro-life candidate.

Were in this together and together we will win.

William Reynolds
Hannah Malone, missionary to Mozambique, was guest speaker Sunday at the Calvary Bible Church, 4001 Mountain Creek Road.

Ms. Malone speaks several languages and is an administrator for Grace Missions evangelism. Ms. Malone is sharing with churches before her return to Africa this spring. She said in addition to visiting with friends, Im giving presentations about my work at the mission. Im excited about the Lords work in Africa and glad to be a part of it.

Pastor Dr.

Bill Henry said, hes impressed with this young ladys desire to use her skills in spreading the Gospel.
Russell D. Moorehead, PE, a vice president with full-service consulting firm Croy Engineering and head of its Chattanooga office, was presented with the Jack W. Anderson Engineering Leadership Award by the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers (TSPE) during the Chattanooga Engineers Week Awards Banquet. This award is presented to an individual who has made outstanding professional contributions to the engineering profession, has demonstrated leadership within their company and/or the professional societies, as well as long-standing service to the community at-large.

Mr. Moorehead joined Croy in January of 2019 to lead and support the expansion of Croys efforts into the Tennessee market. Since then, he has been an integral part of the firms success, helping the firm deliver significant infrastructure improvement projects across the state, such as the 2,000-acre McDonald Farm site planning and development project in Hamilton County.



We are excited to celebrate with Russell, who is truly deserving of this prestigious award, said Croys CEO, Gregory D. Teague, PE. Russell is an excellent example of leadership both inside and outside of our organization, and we are grateful to have him as a part of our Croy team.



Over the span of his nearly four-decade career, Mr. Moorehead has also worked on several notable projects in the greater Chattanooga area, including a site improvement plan for Nokian Tyres, civil site improvements for the Amazon Distribution Facility, and construction plans for the La-Z-Boy Manufacturing Facility.



Throughout his career, Mr. Moorehead has been involved in several professional societies, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the American Council of Engineering Companies of Tennessee (ACEC Tennessee), ACEC Southeast Tennessee, and the American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE). He served as the ASCE Tennessee Section Chattanooga branch president, and later served as the ASCE Tennessee Section president. He currently serves as the vice president of the Board of Directors for ACEC Tennessee. Mr. Moorehead is also a 2014 graduate of Leadership Chattanooga, a program of the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, with which he has remained a member.



In his community, Mr. Moorehead serves as the treasurer of the Suck Creek Mountain Volunteer Fire Department. As a testament to his quick willingness to help others in need, in 2017, he volunteered just outside of Beaumont, Tx. to support the relief efforts towards the devastation experienced just after Hurricane Harvey.






The owner of the Budgetel Inn in East Ridge is making substantial progress in fixing up one building, Criminal Court Judge Boyd Patterson was told on Monday.

Attorney Chris Clem said the owner is going above what was requested after the motel was shut down as a public nuisance.

He said Building A is getting new mattresses, mirrors, blinds, flooring, light fixtures and other items.

District Attorney Coty Wamp, who filed the nuisance petition, said, "I'm less concerned about the paint colors than about criminal activity resuming there."

Judge Patterson said the owner will be expected to have security cameras, cooperate with East Ridge Police and monitor common areas.

He said he will conduct a walk-through of the property on March 20 at 3 p.m.

There will be a court hearing the next day at 9 a.m. on the status.
Perry A. Maples, 93, of Soddy Daisy, Tennessee, passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2023.

Perry was a retired engineer from DuPont, and a veteran of the United States Air Force.

He was a beloved son, uncle, brother, dad, granddad, and great-granddad. He was there for everyone who needed him and was the family rock; he was a great friend to whoever was his friend.

Perry loved fishing, bluegrass music, LA Dodgers, beagle dogs, eating catfish, Texas Roadhouse, working on old stereos, jukeboxes, and western movies. His collection of 45 records and LP albums consists of over 30,000.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Celia Perry; parents, James and Nellie Maples.

Survivors include his daughter, Vickie Harrill; son, Steven Maples; one granddaughter; three great-grandsons; dog Opal and his treasured friends Morris and Sherry.

He will be so missed. We will meet him in Glory one day soon. Till then Daddy, I will miss you and our hearts are broken. Till then we wait.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 6, at 11:30 a.m. at Smith Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery, 1721 Smith Chapel Road, Tunnel Hill, Ga.

There will be no public visitation.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, Tn., 423 531-3975.


David Michael Apps has pleaded pleaded guilty to an information charging him with wire fraud in an embezzlement of over $1.5 million from a Cleveland, Tn., church.

Apps, 50, of Chattanooga, is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Charles Atchley on July 27 at 2 p.m.

According to court documents, from 2014 through 2021, Apps, the business manager of Broad Street United Methodist Church in Cleveland, devised a scheme in which he used an official church credit card to pay for personal expenses in excess of $1.5 million.

Some of these expenses included payment for personal travel, automobiles, medical bills for family members, boat/watercraft and marina fees, and firearms, none of which was related to church business.

Apps also wrote checks to himself under the guise of church member donations to support supposed medical bills relating to his false claim that he had brain cancer. The specific count of conviction involves the use of the church credit card to buy a luxury watch from an expensive retailer in California for $3,711, it was stated.

Apps faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment on the wire fraud count, along with significant fines, restitution, and forfeiture of property.

Assistant United States Attorney Steven Neff represents the United States.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI as part of the Smoky Mountains Financial Crimes Task Force.

David Apps is represented by Chattanooga attorney Lee Davis.
TL;DR:

Phil Spector was proud of The Beatles The Long and Winding Road.

He said the song was similar to the bands story.

The Long and Winding Road hit No. 1 in the United States but didnt chart in the United Kingdom.

The Beatles | Jan Olofsson / Contributor

Phil Spector produced The Beatles The Long and Winding Road. Spector said the song connected to The Beatles lives. Notably, Paul McCartney was not a fan of Spectors work on the song.

Phil Spector said The Beatles The Long and Winding Road was a good way for the band to go out

Spector is known for his work with The Beatles and John Lennon and George Harrison during their solo careers. In the 2003 book Phil Spector: Out of His Head, Spector said critics trashed his work on The Long and Winding Road. They found it too sentimental but he was proud of the song.

And in many respects, it ended the Beatle Era really good, because The Long and Winding Road is a good way for The Beatles to go out, you know what I mean? he said. It all made sense  The Long and Winding Road it was sort of what theyd lived through.

The Beatles gave Phil Spector freedom to do what he wanted with the song and Paul McCartney didnt like the final track

Spector discussed his role in crafting the song. It was a typical Paul song, thats the way I heard it and thats the way I did it, and they gave me freedom to do what I wanted, he said. Paul wasnt a big fan of the song.

Notably, Paul refused to be more involved in the tracks production. As far as Im concerned, George and John and Ringo have just as much say as Paul does, and Paul was asked a hundred times if he wanted to become more involved in it, and he said No,' Spector said. On the other hand, John Lennon praised The Long and Winding Road and the album Let It Be as a whole, though he deemed the title track a bit fruity.

The Long and Winding Road was a hit in the United States but not in the United Kingdom

The Long and Winding Road became a huge hit. It was paired with For You Blue as a double A-side single. The songs reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for two weeks. They stayed on the chart for 10 weeks in total.

The Long and Winding Road and For You Blue appeared on the album Let It Be. Let It Be topped the Billboard 200 for four weeks. The album remained on the chart for 79 weeks altogether.

The Official Charts Company says The Long and Winding Road and For You Blue never charted in the United Kingdom. On the other hand, Let It Be reached No. 1 for three weeks. It remained on the chart for 53 weeks in total.

The Long and Winding Road became a huge hit and Spector felt it aligned with The Beatles story.
Delhi's first Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia, has been arrested over corruption allegations, which he denies, but said he would cooperate with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The official said on Sunday that he would not resist and work with law enforcement personnel in their probe of the excise policy case. He also asserted that he does not care whether or not he goes to jail over what he called "false allegations."

Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Arrested

Before going to the CBI headquarters for questioning regarding the case, he said, "I can go to jail a number of times, and I am not afraid. When I left my job as a journalist, my wife supported me, and even today, my family is standing by my side."

Sisodia holds the education portfolio in the Delhi government, and he said that students need to continue to work hard despite the possibility of him going to jail. He added that he would still monitor their performance behind bars if law enforcement detained him, as per the Deccan Herald.

Also, Sisodia held the Finance portfolio in the Delhi Cabinet and was originally summoned last Sunday. However, he sought deferment of his questioning, citing the ongoing budget exercise, which prompted the CBI to ask him instead to appear on Feb. 26. He made the remarks of cooperating in a Twitter post before officials took him in.

On the other hand, several AAP leaders claimed that some of their councilors were placed under house arrest to prevent them from visiting Raj Ghat. In a statement, AAP national spokesperson Saurabh Bhardwaj claimed that police were at officials' houses and prevented them from going outside.

Adil Ahman, the leader of the AAP, alleged that their councilors were placed under house arrest by the BJP as they were "scared of their party." He argued that the situation is a black day for democracy as the BJP is trying to stop their leaders.

Read Also: Volodymyr Zelensky Aims To Meet with Xi Jinping

Allegations of Corruption

After Sisodia's arrest, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann visited the deputy chief minister's residence to meet with the latter's family members. Mann criticized the BJP for Sisodia's arrest, arguing that it was an "insult" to the education that lakhs of children are getting in Delhi, according to Tribune India.

Sisodia's arrest was in connection with alleged irregularities with a liquor policy in Delhi. The policy saw the opening of new alcohol shops and was later dropped after law enforcement began an investigation into the issue.

However, the detainee and his Aam Aadmi Party, while denying the allegations, argued that governing BJP was using what they called "dirty politics." Corruption issues have become a sensitive matter for the AAP, which emerged from a major movement against corruption over a decade ago.

The party is trying to establish itself as a key opposition force to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Hindu nationalist BJP. It has already taken control of the Punjab state and the capital region, Delhi, said BBC.

Related Article: Hungary PM's Take on Finland, Sweden NATO Bids

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Feb. 1 issue of the Cherokee Phoenix features NFL official and Cherokee Nation citizen Jerod Phillips on the front-page of the newspaper. The Cherokee Phoenix publishes a newspaper twice per month and is currently offering veterans and at-large citizens free subscriptions through special funding.
When this 20-year-old woman was younger, her mother got married to her stepfather. And in addition to gaining a new stepdad, she also gained a stepsister named Abby who is also 20.

Now, in the beginning, she claimed that they were super close. After high school, though, things reportedly changed in their relationship.

While she went away to college, Abby stayed home to attend community college. Afterward, Abby reportedly dropped out of school to pursue a different opportunity but that fell through, too.

She first noticed things were off between them when she went home for Thanksgiving break. Around that time, Abby kept blowing her off and basically refused to talk to her.

Then, come Christmas break, the same thing happened all over again. She kept calling her stepsister and sending texts, but Abby never responded to any of them.

So, she was seriously confused and decided to confide in her mom about the whole situation.

Well, her mom wound up telling her that Abby was probably just jealous. And at that point, she opted to just give her stepsister some space.

Abbys birthday was right around the new year, though. So, she decided to order her stepsister some food on Doordash, send a bouquet of flowers, and message her a corny happy birthday text.

I didnt do any of it for her to praise me, but I did expect a text back. But I got nothing, she recalled.

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As a Christian community, we have a responsibility to respond with compassion and solidarity to those who have been impacted by the earthquakes.

The recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have caused widespread devastation, leaving more than 50,000 people dead and even more injured and homeless. The images of collapsed buildings, rubble, and people suffering have been heart-wrenching. As a Christian community, we have a responsibility to act in compassion and solidarity with those who have been affected by this disaster. Here are four ways churches can help after the earthquakes:

Pray

As Christians, we shouldnt see prayer as a last resort. Rather, its one of the most powerful ways we can help. As people of faith, its important to pray for those who have been affected and for the relief and recovery efforts taking place. However, in such an overwhelming tragedy, it can be difficult to know how to pray. Here are some ideas:

Pray for the victims, survivors, and their families. Lift up in prayer all those who have lost loved ones or have been injured in the earthquakes. Pray for their physical and emotional healing, and for God's comfort and strength to be with them during this difficult time.

Pray for the relief efforts. Pray for the churches, aid workers, and organizations providing assistance to those affected by the earthquakes. Ask God to give them the resources, wisdom, compassion and courage they need to carry out their work effectively.

Pray for the affected areas. Pray for the local communities in Turkey and Syria that have been impacted by the earthquakes. Ask God to give them the resilience and strength they need to rebuild their homes and their lives, and to provide for their basic needs.

Pray for peace and reconciliation. Pray for harmony in the region, so the people of Turkey and Syria may be able to live in safety and security. Ask God to inspire leaders and individuals to work towards justice, healing, and reconciliation.

Provide Spiritual and Emotional Support

Another way churches can help is to offer spiritual and emotional support to those affected by the earthquakes. Though this disaster occurred in the Middle East, there may be people living in your community who have lost a loved one or had a loved one impacted by the tragedy. Trauma and grief can leave a lasting impact on individuals and communities, and churches can provide a safe space for people to gather to pray, reflect, and seek comfort.

Church leaders can offer memorial services and organize support groups to help individuals process their experiences and emotions. To learn more how to provide biblically-informed, evidence-informed, and trauma-informed peer-to-peer spiritual and emotional care, consider getting certified in Spiritual First Aid.

Give

Churches can use their networks to mobilize resources and bring relief to those affected by the earthquakes. This can involve fundraising campaigns, donations, and volunteering efforts. Churches can leverage their local and international connections to reach out to Christian organizations and relief agencies and support their work on the ground.

There are several Christian relief organizations actively responding to the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, providing aid and support to the affected communities. Here are some organizations we recommend:

World Vision is a global Christian humanitarian organization that has been responding to emergencies and disasters around the world for many years. Theyre currently working in Turkey and Syria to provide emergency relief, including food, water, shelter, and medical care.

Samaritan's Purse is a Christian relief organization that provides aid and assistance to those affected by natural disasters, war, poverty, and other crises. Theyre working in Turkey and Syria to provide emergency shelter, hygiene kits, and other essential items.

Christian Aid is a UK-based Christian charity that works to end poverty and promote justice around the world. Theyre working in Turkey and Syria to provide emergency relief, including food, water, and shelter.

Tearfund is a Christian charity that works to reduce poverty and support vulnerable communities around the world. Theyre working in Turkey and Syria to provide emergency relief, including food, water, and shelter.

Advocate for Sustainable Development

Churches can advocate for policy changes that address the root causes of the earthquakes and promote sustainable development. This can involve calling for improved infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection measures. Churches can also support local organizations working towards these goals to create positive change. By advocating for long-term solutions, churches can demonstrate their commitment to biblical justice and the common good.

Our churches can play a crucial role in relief efforts by praying, providing emotional support, giving, and advocating for long-term solutions. In doing so, we can demonstrate the transformative power of our faith and work towards creating a more just and peaceful world.

The Better Samaritan blog is produced by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College, a research institute which specializes in resilience and spiritual fortitude. To learn more and apply for a M.A. in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership, visit our website

Jamie Aten, Ph.D. and Kent Annan, M.Div. are the co-founders of Spiritual First Aid. They also co-direct the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College.
Recently, there have been discussions about the core identity of humankindwhether we are first and foremost sinners in need of a Savior, or whether God has created us with a nature that is fundamentally good. This is a deeply theological issue with implications for nearly every aspect of our lives and society at large.

Who are we? Why are we here? What does it mean to be human? These are questions that virtually every human society has asked and answered through origin storieswhich are religious or cultural narratives that speak to the purpose and destiny of humanity.

I explored many different origin stories from around the world while creating a video series called Storytelling and the Human Condition for The Teaching Company and Wondrium (formerly The Great Courses). And even though I was raised in an evangelical Christian home, I was struck by how much I took for granted in the Judeo-Christian anthropology when I compared it to others.

In the Judeo-Christian worldview, the origin story of humankind is defined by the imago Dei: the notion that God created human beings in his image. And when I compared the creation narrative in Genesis to other ancient origin stories from the Mesopotamian region, this concept hit me in a new way.

Genesis reveals important information about the character of the Judeo-Christian God. There is a single Creator who acts upon the world with intention and brings order out of chaos. There is a purpose to it all. It is all done in a peaceful environment: The phrase Let there be is sufficient to bring whole new creations into being.

After the creation of the cosmos, earth, and animals, God creates Adam and Evesuggesting that humankind is the pinnacle of the created world. Human beings bear the imprint of the divine, as we share in the nature of the God who created us. The imago Dei means that we have dignity as well as a responsibility to steward the rest of the created world.

In contrast, lets consider what is often considered to be the worlds oldest creation storythe Enuma Elish from ancient Babylon around 1100 B.C. This violent narrative may seem strange to us now, but it reveals how the ancient Babylonian civilization understood how the world, the gods, and human beings came to be.

Two primordial beingsApsu and Tiamatexist at the beginning of time. They give birth to other gods. When their children act out, some rather gory intergenerational warfare begins.

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After great tumult, Marduk, the son of Apsu and Tiamat, creates the heavens with one half of his mothers body, and the Earth with the other half. Marduk makes his fellow gods stewards over the heavens, the air, and the water, and sets the planets and time itself in motion.

The rest of the godsstill bitter toward the older generation of godsdemand more revenge, so Marduk kills his stepfather, Kingu, and from his blood, Marduk creates humanity.

Marduk states his purpose in creating mankind: I shall bring into being a lowly primitive creature  so that the gods may have rest (emphasis added).

The cosmos is now set. Marduk is the supreme ruler over the universe, including the other gods and humanity. Human beings were created as an afterthoughtonly after the other gods complained about their labor and yearned for more revengeand humanitys purpose of existence is to set the gods free from the labors of their daily existence.

The Genesis narrative and the Enuma Elish share some similarities.

For example, both stories draw from the idea that while humanity partakes in the nature of the divine in some way. In Genesis, man is created in Gods image, and God breathes life into Adam. In the Enuma Elish, humanity emerges from a gods blood. Still, humanity is still distinct from God in both stories.

Relatedly, both Genesis and the Enuma Elish claim that humanity was created for work. God commanded Adam and Eve to cultivate the earth, and to be stewards over it. In the Babylonian story, mankind was intended to work in service to the gods for all of time.

But there is a difference between the stewardship of Genesis and the servitude of the Enuma Elish. In Genesis, we werent merely created to work. We, and creation in general, have a non-utilitarian purpose as well: to delight God, and to delight in him.

The refrain that comes after each act of creation And God saw that it was goodshows that God took pleasure in his created world. A superlative is added to this statement after human beings are created, when God saw all that he had made, and it was very good (Gen. 1:31, emphasis added).

Genesis tells us that there is beauty and abundance to be found and enjoyed in the world he created for us to inhabit. Beauty and enjoyment are non-utilitarian. We have work to do here on Earth, but enjoying our life in the fulfillment of our duties affirms the way that God created us to be. There is also an order, a design, and a purpose to the worldof which we were created to take part.

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In Genesis, human beings are unique among creation. We werent created as an afterthought amid a cosmic intergenerational warfare and out of a murdered gods blood to free other gods from labor, as was the case in the Enuma Elish. In the Babylonian narrative, there was no created first manthere was no Adambut instead humanity was created anonymous and en masse.

The New Testament also tells us that human beings were created to lead lives of joy and fullness. As Jesus says in second half of John 10:10, I have come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (NKJV).

In the Judeo-Christian story, no other creature was created in Gods image. Humans are distinctively and intrinsically valuable. This tradition has been integral in developing the concepts of human dignity and human rights which we often take for granted in our modern world today.

As secular classicist Tom Holland argues in his recent book, Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World, universal human rights or a concept of personhood were completely foreign to the pagan, Greco-Roman world. It was Christianity, and the imago Dei, that forged and built our ethic of basic respect for other human beings today.

The idea that all human beings have equal worth in Gods eyes is a historic anomaly. Most of human history has rejected this ideathat only ones tribe and ones family mattered. Everyone else was less valuable, or less than humanespecially ones enemies.

The stories we tell reflect and shape how we see the world and our place in it. The narratives we accept about our originsalong with what we believe about God and humankinds relationship to Godinvariably colors how we view our role and purpose in the world. Exploring worldviews that differ from ours allows us to see what we take for granted: They clarify, and help us better appreciate, our own stories.

Comparing the Babylonian origin story to the Genesis creation narrative renews my gratitude that Im not merely an inglorious servant to the divine, my fate subject to the whim of their caprice. Instead, I serve a just and benevolent God who is fundamentally affectionate toward his creationand especially toward humans, whom he created to delight in and to bear his own image.

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We become more fully human, and more truly ourselves, when we partake in and reflect his image by creating and engaging in the world around usbeautifying and ennobling in our work as little creatorsincluding when we tell and retell meaningful stories.

Alexandra Hudson is the founder of Civic Renaissance, a former Novak Journalism Fellow and the creator of a new series with The Teaching Company, called Storytelling and the Human Condition. Her book, The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves, is forthcoming from St. Martins Press.

[ This article is also available in espanol. ]
I was in elementary school when I learned the words to all three verses of Lift Every Voice and Sing.

As a Black adolescent in the Leimert Park neighborhood of Los Angelesmade famous by movies such as Boyz n the Hood, Training Day, and Straight Outta Comptonthis song had particular meaning to me. It was sung with pride at church and social events during Black History Month, an annual commemoration that Black lives, Black accomplishments, and Black achievements matter.

Now known as the Black national anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing was penned in 1900 as a hymn of hopegrounded in the belief that resilient faith would sustain us against oppression.

James Weldon Johnson, the songwriter, was born in Jacksonville in 1871 to a Haitian mother from the Bahamas and a father from Richmond. The Johnsons had moved to the coastal Florida city, which stood out as a place in the South where Black people had access to education (though segregated) and economic opportunity.

Like many other Black Americans at the time, James Weldon Johnson was influenced by the message of educator, orator, and public intellectual Booker T. Washington. Born into slavery in 1856, Washington advocated for Black liberation through economic and educational achievement, serving for decades as the first leader of the Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute (now Tuskegee University).

Washington was also a devout Christian who integrated his pragmatic approach to faith into his service as an educator and national leader. He believed that God was powerful enough to liberate Black people from the evil of racism. Washingtons focus on education and emphasis on hope and resilience inspired Johnson.

After attending Atlanta University (now Clark Atlanta University), Johnson returned home to serve as principal of his middle school alma mater. For a celebration of Abraham Lincolns birthday in 1900, the young educator penned Lift Every Voice and Sing, which 500 middle schoolers sang in tribute to Booker T. Washington. Johnsons prose was set to music by his younger brother, J. Rosamond Johnson, a New England Conservatorytrained composer.

Both at church and at home, James Weldon Johnson developed the foundational theological and practical faith that came through in his three-stanza hymn. With lines such as Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us / Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us, the song evokes the struggle of Black Americans, our sights on victory, and our prayer that God would continue to lead us.

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Johnson grew up in Jacksonvilles only Colored Methodist Episcopal (now Christian Methodist Episcopal) church, believing that through education and faith Black people could achieve. Local Black churches, predominately Methodist and Baptist, were the most influential entity uplifting and preparing Blacks for the oppressive forces of post-Reconstruction racism.

The churches supported and, in some cases, created educational institutions; economic development and volunteer organizations to provide mutual aid; cultural gatherings; and, in the case of the Afro-American Life Insurance Company, insurance policies. Ebenezer Methodist Episcopal Church, where the Johnsons attended, was one of the largest congregations and one of the most actively engaged, with a focus on self-determination, self-awareness, and pride.

At the time of the writing of Lift Every Voice and Sing, Jacksonville had been a haven for snowbirds. Tourism, however, was disrupted by the Spanish-American War, horrible yellow fever and typhoid outbreaks, and the resulting deaths. White-supremacist ideologies permeated the southern city through Jim and Jane Crow written and unwritten laws. Although there was a small Black middle class of ministers, teachers, and small-business owners (like barbers, tailors, cobblers, and grocers), Black people as a whole were not thriving socially, economically, and certainly not politically.

Lift Every Voice and Sing is a faith-oriented, inclusive, and pragmatic response to the societal ills Johnson saw around him. Faced with white supremacy, nationalism, and the proliferation of colonialism, he put to words a theology sung out from the mouths of children, a calling to lift every voice and sing and march on til victory is won.

The melody is as complex as the lyric. The Johnson brothers were intentional about not sugarcoating the urgency or the seriousness of preparing young people for the days ahead. The difficulty of tune and text made it worthy of committing to memory and thus internalizing the message and the vision of hope.

The first verse of the hymn points to a redemptive arc toward the harmonies of Liberty. Johnsons second verse is a lament that acknowledges the vestiges of our nations oppressive, gloomy past. These lyrics come not as a doldrum of depression but as a way to avail meaning to the resilient hope that is cast as the vision forward in the first verse.

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The final verse is a prayer that positions the second verse as a launching point for achieving the aspiration of the firstwith divine assistance, of course. God of our weary years, God of our silent tears, the song goes, Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way  Although Johnson had great proximity to hymnody, his affinity to poetry, especially that of Rudyard Kipling, inspired the shape of Lift Every Voice and Sing. Kiplings Recessional offers a glimpse at a possible literary influence.

Johnsons prose was intentionalto show middle schoolers, who even as kids faced the horror of Black oppression, that this was their experience and their truth. Their preparation for a future lay in interacting with a vision of Libertys harmonies through a theological lens that victory can be won if we stay true to our God and true to our native land.

Johnson later wrote that the song spread as those students kept singing it and teaching it to others, and within twenty years it was being sung over the South and in some other parts of the country.

Like the young middle schoolers of Johnsons school, my peers and I faced challenges during our youthful days. Ours were different yet still traumatic. Although many of us were taught poems by Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Maya Angelou, we found more applicable inspiration in songs of Motown, Philadelphia International Records, and Stax. Each year, our favorite recording artists would appear on television singing Lift Every Voice and Sing, making our ability to sing it too, more potent, more palatable, and, simply put, more personal.

We navigated the streets of Los Angeles more fearful of the corrupt civil servants than gangbangers and more anxious about nefarious stereotypes than the drug-infested streets. As young citizens too young to vote, we believed in having the courage to sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us, and we believed that we have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered.

Beyond an anthem or a song of faith, this is a hymn of hope and invitation. It gives us hope for an inclusive, equitable, and just society and an invitation to be a part of the making of such! Let us all commit to lift every voice and sing, til earth and heaven ring, ring with the harmonies of Liberty!

Emmett G. Price III is the inaugural dean of Africana studies at Berklee College of Music & Boston Conservatory at Berklee. He also serves as president/CEO of the Black Christian Experience Resource Center (BCERC) and can be reached via emmettprice.com.
United States National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan warned China on Sunday if Beijing officials push through with alleged plans to supply Russia with lethal aid to use in its invasion of Ukraine.

The American official said there would be "real costs" over the alleged actions, saying that the war between Russia and Ukraine presents complications for Beijing. He added that the Chinese government would be forced to make its own decisions on how to move forward, whether or not to provide military assistance.

US Warns China Against Sending Aid to Russia

Sullivan, who has been in talks with Chinese officials, said that the United States was not directly threatening Beijing. Instead, he laid out the stakes and consequences of providing lethal aid to Russia and how things would unfold. He noted that they were working like that behind closed doors.

The national security adviser's remarks come during a critical time in the war between Russia and Ukraine. Despite intelligence suggesting China is gearing up to assist Russia, Beijing appears to have yet to make a final decision, as CNN.

Sources noted that this is because China and Russia are still negotiating the price and scope of the equipment that will be provided. Since the beginning of the war, Moscow has repeatedly asked for drones and ammunition from Beijing.

On the other hand, Chinese leaders have actively debated, in the last several months, whether or not to grant those requests. On Sunday, Sullivan was asked if the U.S. government would continue supporting Ukraine the same way now after a year.

In response, the national security adviser said he agreed with the American people that the war was unpredictable. He added that a year ago, everyone was bracing for the fall of Kyiv, which was expected to happen in a matter of days. But a year later, President Joe Biden stood alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, declaring that Kyiv remains standing.

Read Also: Florida Seeks Ban in Gender Studies Majors

Sending Drones, Ammunition to Moscow

Other than Sullivan, other lawmakers are warning against China's supposed lethal aid to Russia. According to Fox News, Sen. Ben Cardin warned Beijing that doing so would result in the U.S. implementing more sanctions on the Chinese government.

The Democrat's remarks came during an interview on Sunday where he claimed that the U.S. had Russia isolated economically. He said the same thing could be done to China if it helps Moscow invade Ukraine.

Cardin added that Beijing should understand that they must be on the right side of history, in support of Ukraine, not against it. The senator's remarks referenced the United Nations General Assembly that approved a non-binding resolution on Thursday. It called for Russia to immediately end its hostilities in Ukraine and order the withdrawal of its military forces.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul also spoke about his stance on the war between Russia and Ukraine. The official recently visited Ukraine and talked about what he called the "unholy alliance" between Beijing and Moscow.

Related Article: GOP Chair Makes Assumptious Claims for 2024 Elections

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Thirty-four Israeli scholars have signed a statement protesting the announcement of biblical archaeological discoveries before proper peer review. Gershon Galil, an emeritus professor, said he is the target of the statement but his critics are just jealous. In March 2022, Galil claimed to have discovered a curse tablet that contained the oldest known Hebrew writing and the name Yahweh. He has refused to share a high-quality photo with scholars. In December, he claimed to have deciphered five new inscriptions from the reign of King Hezekiah, which he called actually the earliest manuscripts of the Bible. He made the announcement on TV and shared only one photo with researchers. Its like saying youve disproved Einsteins theory of relativity, one scholar complained, but youll only publish the findings on Saturday Night Live. 

Sudan: Pastor called a witch

The pastor of the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church in El Hasahisa, Al Jazirah state, was arrested on charges of witchcraft. According to local Christians, Abdalla Haron Sulieman prayed for his mother to be healed of an infection. When she was healed, local Muslims started flocking to the church and authorities stepped in. Sudanese Christians have worried about religious freedom since a military coup in October.

Nigeria: Churches preaching election peace and cooperation

The Nigeria Evangelical Fellowship called on all candidates in the 2023 election to denounce violence and commit to preaching peace. There have been more than 50 attacks on the offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and ongoing violence continues to claim the lives of about 400 Christians per month. Labor Party candidate Peter Obi, who has pledged to build a nation where everyone will be respected and stop the killing and start the healing, was ahead in preelection polls.

Vietnam: Christmas visitor arrested

Religious freedom advocate Y An Hdrue was arrested while attempting to attend a Christmas Eve service at an Evangelical Church of Christ in the Dak Lak province. Traffic police claimed his drivers license was fake and held him in custody for 10 hours, Y An Hdrue said. He was questioned by officers who refused to give their names and seized his phone, which contained evidence of alleged human rights violations. Authorities claim the church, primarily made up of indigenous Ede people, seeks to establish a separatist religious state in the central highlands. There is no evidence that is true.

Australia: Hillsong founder goes on trial

A judge heard 13 days of testimony in the trial of Hillsong founder Brian Houston, who is accused of failing to report his father Franks pedophilia in 1999. Houston claims he has a reasonable excuse, because the victim was an adult by the time Houston knew about the crime and did not want the incident reported. There were also many other people who knew, including several police officers in the church and the pastors of other churches, and they did not report it either. One pastor who knew and also failed to report was simultaneously convicted of sexual assault in a separate trial. Attorneys in Houstons case will submit their closing arguments in June.

United States: MDiv degrees decline

The number of seminarians pursuing a master of divinity degree is now equal with the number pursuing a master of arts degree. This is the first time this has happened since the Association of Theological Schools started tracking enrollment in 1975. MDiv degrees, which typically require training in biblical languages, are down by about 9 percentage points since 2018. John Kutsko, former executive director of the Society of Biblical Literature and one of the editors who oversaw the recent update of the New Revised Standard Version, told The Christian Century he is concerned about a shortage of biblical language scholars by 2050.

United Kingdom: Chaplain decries kings multiculturalism

The former chaplain of the late Queen Elizabeth II warned that King Charles III could destroy the British monarchy if he abandons his role as defender of the faith and acts, instead, as defender of all faiths. I dont think the monarchy can float if it becomes a multicultural and multireligious monarchy, said Gavin Ashenden, who served as royal chaplain from 2008 to 2017 but has since left the Church of England and become Roman Catholic. Charles, in his first Christmas speech, urged his subjects to celebrate light overcoming darkness, whatever faith you have, or whether you have none.

France: Pastor convicted for failure to report abuse

A pastor in Orleans has received a 12-month suspended sentence for failing to report historical sexual abuse confessed to him by a member of his congregation. The pastor, who has not been named in the press, did report the crimes but waited four years. He claimed he didnt know the extent of the abuse, which included the rapes of two boys. I didnt dig into it, he told the court. Maybe that was my mistake. The abuser eventually received a 16-year sentence. French law protected the secrecy of the confessional until 2019, but only for Catholics and Anglicans, who see confession as a sacrament.

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Bulgaria: Evangelicals win in human rights court

The European Court of Human Rights ruled that a Bulgarian city violated the religious rights of an evangelical group when it warned school administrators the Christians were carrying out a massive campaign of agitation, tricking new members, and disuniting the Bulgarian nation. The lawsuit was advanced by Alliance Defending Freedom International, which has won more than 1,500 cases in 104 countries since 2010. Bulgaria may choose to ignore the ruling, however, as the European court has no enforcement authority.

[ This article is also available in Francais. ]

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Indias church is exhausted by the surge of anticonversion laws and accusations of illegal proselytization. Theyre tired of mobs driving out Christians from their villages and the possibility that many face property destruction and personal violence. Perhaps most significantly, theyre angry at a government that passively enables these actions at best and actively foments them at worst.

Last week, 22,000 Christians across the denominational spectrum and from around the country gathered together in their nations capital to demand better.

This protest is basically to call the attention of the government to the increasing violence against Christians and our institutions. These attacks are without reasons and basis, Metropolitan Youhanon Mar Demetrios at the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church in Delhi told CT. So, we are calling upon the government to ask how the protection of the Christians and their institutions will be guaranteed. We are not asking for anything out of the ordinary.

Major national media outlets like Outlook and The Indian Express and the YouTube channel India Speaks, among others, covered the protest.

Thousands of young people, church leaders, human rights activists, educationists, lawyers, musicians, and other professionals from more than 80 denominations and Christian organizations gathered at the February 19 event at Jantar Mantar, a historic observatory. The protest was organized by the Delhi and National Capital Region Christian leaders across the denominational spectrum. Many attendees wore white to symbolize peace or wore their traditional attire and sported black armbands as a mark of protest.

This coming together of all the denominations is not to show our muscle power; rather, it is a unity to strengthen the kingdom of God, said Abraham Mathew of the National Council of Churches in India.

It is a cry of our people for their brothers and sisters who are suffering in rural areas. They have the right to believe in their God, but that is being curtailed. There is no other hope for us but only crying to God to save us, and this is a loud cry, he added.

Choirs from different Delhi congregations as well as ethnic groups from Punjab, Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and North-East states and the Chota Nagpur plateau offered songs of worship and encouragement in various languages and musical styles. (Many of these regional languages have flourished in recent decades due to missionary-led Bible translation and education efforts.)

But the protest also offered a time for many Christian leaders from different parts of India to share and lament the way their communities are being targeted.

Bhupendra Khora, an activist hailing from Chhattisgarh, provided a first-person account of the oppression that Christian Adivasis residing in the Bastar region have been enduring. In December 2022, in what appeared to be a coordinated assault, Hindu radicals in the area offered their Christian neighbors three choices: deny their faith, abandon their ancestral homes, or face death.

Those who chose to stay were attacked, their homes and places of worship demolished, their crops set on fire, and their animals killed and consumedatrocities that have been confirmed by numerous fact-finding investigations.

Despite the high courts directive for the Chhattisgarh government to offer aid to the displaced people in the regions established government camps, the majority of those fleeing have opted to stay in hiding, concerned that they would be compelled to return to their villages after a few days. While some of them desire to return to their native land and normal routines, they demand police protection and justice against those responsible.

While the community continues to have faith in the leadership and the legal system of the nation, it makes a heartfelt and earnest appeal to fellow citizens to stand in empathy and solidarity with it, to raise their voices at the targeted, violent, and organized injustice happening across the nation against their brothers and sisters, outraging their religious freedom and inherent dignity, said John Dayal, a Catholic activist, at a press conference preceding the protest.

Meanwhile, multiple Christians in Uttar Pradesh have suffered over allegations of violating the states anticonversion laws.

Shivdesh (who prefers to use only his first name) spent 20 days in prison in 2022 on an alleged accusation of forced conversion. The Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, resident recounted the violence he and his family experienced at the hands of a mob and the subsequent troubles they faced because of the authorities cold response.

Last year, the Evangelical Church of India based in the city was targeted during the Maundy Thursday service on April 14, 2022. Since then, 47 local Christians have been detained in ongoing arrests. Uttar Pradesh authorities have also accused the 113-year-old Broadwell Christian Hospital; the faith-based Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences; and World Vision of violating anti-conversion laws.

Patsy David, an activist and lawyer from Uttar Pradesh, revealed an unusual case where last year, the government accused a Christian of violating the anticonversion lawsdespite the fact the individual had passed away more than two years prior. This mistake raised questions about local authorities investigation procedures and competence, he says.

The government is not listening to us, David, who attended the protest, told CT. Wherever persecution is reported in Uttar Pradesh, we approach the authorities to intervene and help Christians who are being targeted, but instead we see that the authorities start to act against the Christians rather than help them.  The situation in the state is worsening with every passing day, so this united peace protest is the need of the hour.

Narendra Modis 2014 ascension to prime minister has corresponded with a significant increase in incidents of hostility and violence against members of the Christian community in recent years.

In 2015, only 142 verified incidents against Christians were reported on the United Christian Forum (UCF) hotline, but by 2021, the number of calls to the human rights group had risen to 505. Last year, UCF reported 598 incidents, and 57 incidents had been counted as of January 2023.

The violence and hostilities against Christians have been largely concentrated in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Karnataka.

Other organizations, such as Evangelical Fellowship of India and the US-based Federation of Indian American Christian Organizations (FIACONA), have also recorded several incidents, with FIACONA reporting nearly 1,200. In its 2023 World Watch List, Open Doors ranked India as the 11th worst country to be a Christian.

According to activists who spoke with CT, incidents of violence against the Christian community are not isolated and are indicative of a broader trend of discrimination against minorities in India. They highlight that eight states have either introduced or reintroduced anticonversion laws since 2017, which are frequently exploited by religious extremists and supporters of Hindutva to target minority groups based on their religious beliefs.

We demand that the government provide security to all our churches and arrest the vigilantes who are behind the attacks on each church, said Sanjay Magee, president of Unity in Compassion, an activist organization.

Last March, the Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Bangalore, Peter Machado, along with Evangelical Fellowship of India and the National Solidarity Forum, filed a petition seeking the courts direction in establishing a special state-level investigation team to register criminal cases and prosecute groups responsible for attacking Christians to help reduce such incidents. In response, the Court has ordered an investigation and report on the list of incidents that were mentioned in the petition, pertaining to the top eight states.

Organizers of last weeks protest also reminded attendees that for the past 20 years, the Supreme Court has been reviewing a challenge to the Presidential Order of 1950, which provides benefits and protections exclusively to Dalits belonging to the Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist religions, while neglecting the Dalit members of the Christian and Muslim communities. Despite several committees extensively concluding over the years that all Dalit groups confront similar discrimination and atrocities, regardless of their religious beliefs, the Supreme Court has yet to deliver a ruling on this issue.

The prime minister in his speech in February 2015 expressed that his government will secure religious freedom for every citizen. We are yet to see that in action. It is our hope that the government will respond positively to our concerns, said Vijayesh Lal, general secretary of the Evangelical Fellowship of India and one of the protest organizers.

Christian leaders signed a memorandum, based on the reports from UCF, FIACONA, and EFI among others, that they intend to present to Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and other government officials at both union and state levels. The memorandum requests justice from the government for the indiscriminate violence against Christians, guidance to empower law enforcement authorities to provide better protection, and stricter actions against the disruptive vigilante groups who impede religious freedom in the country and operate with impunity.

Specifically, the memorandum asks the government for the following:

To strengthen human rights monitoring mechanisms, including the National Commission for Minorities and the National Human Rights Commission

To constitute a National/State Redressal Commission/s headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, with community and civil representatives, to address the issues of targeted violence against minorities

For a speedy closure of cases where false allegations have been levied against Christians, including in the case of late Fr. Stan Swamy, who died in prison, and others who continue to face wrongful detentions and prosecutions

For the reconstruction of illegally demolished churches across the country

For appropriate and adequate compensation to Christian individuals and institutions who are targeted for their religious identity, under the central and state victim compensation schemes

For strict action against vigilante mobs who round up individuals; trespass private property belonging to churches, Christians, or persons of other religions who also have their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; or shout anti-Christian slogans outside police station premises on the pretext of forcible religious conversions

For basic preliminary investigation to be conducted by the police in cases alleging religious conversions before the government files a first information report

For the installation of CCTV cameras (to document misconduct) in local police stations across India

For first information reports to be immediately registered on receipt of complaints by victims of religion-based violence or discrimination

We would like to peacefully bring our agony and our sorrows to the knowledge of the government that this is what we are going through and it is their responsibility to take care of us, as a minority, said Saji Esao, the general secretary of the Union of Evangelical Students of India.
'Can't just be alarmed': Catholic archbishops urge Christians to fight anti-Semitism

Catholic senior archbishops from around the world have urged followers of Christ to actively fight the rise of anti-Semitism amid increasing hate crimes and other incidents targeting Jews in the United States and elsewhere.

The call was made last week at an online event hosted by the Combat Antisemitism Movement to celebrate the heroic actions of Monsignor Giuseppe Placido Nicolini. Nicolini helped save hundreds of Jewish lives during the Holocaust by allowing Jews fleeing Nazi deportation to be housed in the Italian city of Assisi, in what has been termed the "Assisi Network."

Archbishop of Chicago Cardinal Blase J. Cupich condemned the troubling increase in hate-filled anti-Semitic language and acts of violence against Jews in recent years.

"Christians can not just be alarmed by anti-Semitism. We must look to the example of Bishop Nicolini and band together in a network of support and protection," Cupich said in a statement.

"We have come to recognize the deep harm that anti-Semitism causes and a better understanding of its roots. We must create the kind of network in Assisi that saved the lives of Jews, but also saved the humanity of those who saved them."

He said Catholics and Jews "must continue to grow together in knowledge and trust of one another through dialogue and shared action."

Secretary General of the Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union Fr. Manuel Barrio addressed the need to combat the causes of anti-Semitism, including "social distress, uncertainty, fear and the scapegoat mechanism."

"We must acknowledge that we are all brothers and sisters; we belong to the same human family and are called together to take care of one another," he said. "This is the cure for many of the evils that are afflicting our world today."

The event highlighted the history of Catholic-Jewish relations since the Holocaust.

Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, emphasized the need to "never again" remain silent in the face of increasing violence.

"'Never Again' to turn a blind eye to such violence being enacted in our midst," he said.

In its latest audit of anti-Semitic incidents last April, the Anti-Defamation League found that anti-Semtic incidents reached an all-time high in the U.S. in 2021 with 2,717 incidents of assault, harassment and vandalism reported to ADL. This is the most incidents reported to ADL in a year since it began tracking anti-Semitic incidents in 1979.

Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana, Apostolic Nuncio to Israel and Cyprus, said the Catholic Church condemns and combats anti-Semitism in all its forms and is fully committed to fighting it as one of mankind's oldest, most pernicious and most destructive forms of bigotry and hate.

Mayor of Assisi Stefania Proietti, Ambassador of Israel to the Holy See Raphael Schutz, Chairman of the European March of the Living Benjamin Albalas, CEO of B'nai B'rith International Dan Mariaschin, and Anna Cividalli, a descendant of a saved member of the Jewish community in Italy during the Holocaust, also participated in the event.

"In 2023, we stand at a unique point in history. The opportunity for Catholics and Jews at all levels of leadership and laymenship to build meaningful relationships and stand together against hatred as siblings in faith proves evermore paramount," CAM Partnerships and Diplomatic Relations Manager Catherine Szkop said.

"Lets follow in the footsteps of the holy and righteous men and women who have gone before us to achieve what many claim to be impossible: peace between peoples, and an end to antisemitism and all forms of hate."

A study conducted among 4,000 respondents last year by the Anti-Defamation League found that nearly one in five Americans believe in at least six negative stereotypes about Jews, compared to around one in nine in 2019.

"What these findings represent, what they tell us, and what creates such urgency is the fact that large, huge numbers of Americans hold dangerous, false ideas about the Jewish people," ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt told reporters at a news conference in January, according to NPR.

"While it is very encouraging that the vast majority of our country doesn't hold these ideas, 50 plus million people is worrisome and it means we've got work to do."

In a 2022 interview, Christian theologian Rev. Lee B. Spitzer, an affiliate professor of church history at Northern Seminary in Illinois, told The Christian Post that Christians wanting to combat anti-Semitism should "reflect on how our own churches or communities expressed anti-Semitism, either consciously or unconsciously, wittingly or unwittingly."

"Many Christians do and say things that are anti-Semitic not because they intentionally wish to, but because of ignorance," Spitzer explained. "And so, we are to be dislightened about how some of the things we say and do are harmful and hurtful to the Jewish community."

"Relationships are everything. It's very hard to be prejudiced about a community or a group when you have friends within that group," he added. "And I would suggest that people in the Church community need to reach out to their neighbors, their friends, and learn from them, appreciate them."

Scott Phillips, the executive director of Passages Israel, told CP that churches are not immune to anti-Semitism, calling theological views like Replacement Theology as a likely source of Christian anti-Semitism. He called for Christians to pursue education, relationship and action.

"One is just being aware that anti-Semitism exists and really educating ourselves on the history of anti-Semitism and the causes of anti-Semitism," said Phillips.

"I think once you have that basis, No. 2 is relationships with the Jewish community. The local Jewish community. Reach out, have relationships that are unconditional and that are based on shared values and trust."
Megachurch votes to leave UMC after trying to disaffiliate without congregational vote

Correction Appended

A megachurch in Texas that tried to leave The United Methodist Church without a congregational vote has now held that vote, with members voting overwhelmingly to disaffiliate from the second-largest Protestant denomination in the United States.

St. Andrew Methodist Church of Plano held a congregational vote last week in which 98.6% of those present voted in favor of disaffiliation from the UMC, totaling 859 members voting in favor versus 12 opposed.

St. Andrew leadership told The Christian Post in an email statement that after announcing the initial plan to leave the UMC, the congregation "engaged in meaningful and productive conversations" with regional UMC leadership "to finalize terms of our disaffiliation."

"St. Andrew's goal has always been to disaffiliate while still maintaining relationships with the UMC and blessing each other in mission for the future," continued the statement.

Part of the final agreement to disaffiliate will include a settlement with the regional body involving the "payment of necessary apportionments and pension liabilities."

"St. Andrew will remain an independent Methodist church for some period and will not be affiliating with any existing Methodist denominations," the statement from the church reads. "St. Andrew is exploring new affiliations with other mission-focused Methodist and Wesleyan churches, both large and small, to grow the Kingdom of God."

St. Andrew is one of the largest congregations located in the UMC North Texas Annual Conference headquartered in Plano.

In a statement last Wednesday, the regional body said the next step will be for the disaffiliation vote to be affirmed at a Special Called Session slated to be held this Saturday.

"St. Andrew UMC has met the requirements for disaffiliation," the conference noted, including "St. Andrew's commitment to pay the necessary apportionments and pension liabilities and to honor the North Texas Conference's terms for disaffiliation."

Last October, St. Andrew announced plans to disaffiliate from the UMC without holding the mandatory congregational vote. The church claimed at the time that the vote was not necessary.

"St. Andrew's decision was made in accordance with its governing legal documents, which allowed the decision to be made without a congregational vote. St. Andrew stands by the legal enforceability of its decision, and it is overwhelmingly supported by the church members," stated St. Andrew leadership at the time.

"St. Andrew's leadership comprises a variety of individuals all with unique professional experience and personal views that are representative of our congregation. They collectively spent hundreds of hours of in-depth research examining both the decision to disaffiliate and the mechanism to make the decision."

The UMC has seen hundreds of churches disaffiliate in recent years due to its ongoing internal debate over LGBT issues.

Although the UMC officially labels homosexuality a sin and does not allow same-sex weddings, many progressive leaders within the denomination have refused to enforce the rules. This has prompted many congregations to leave the mainline Protestant denomination, with most deciding to join the more theologically conservative Global Methodist Church.

A little over 1,800 congregations disaffiliated from the UMC in 2022, according to a report by UM News, with more than 400 of those congregations in Texas.

The original version of this article published on Feb. 27, 2023, reported that the congregational vote tally was 871 to 12. The actual vote tally was 859 to 12 out of 871 total votes.
Newborn rescued from earthquake rubble with umbilical cord attached adopted in Syria

A Syrian newborn baby who was found with her umbilical cord still attached beneath the rubble of the deadly earthquake that hit southeastern Turkey and northwestern Syria earlier this month has been adopted.

The little girl was the sole survivor of her family after the earthquake destroyed their apartment complex in the northern town of Jinderis in the Aleppo province on Feb. 6. Rescue workers dug for 10 hours in the wreckage and discovered the infant alive, with the umbilical cord still attached to her deceased mother.

After the baby was adopted by her paternal aunt and uncle and discharged from the hospital on Feb. 18, the couple renamed her Afraa in honor of her late mother, The Associated Press reports.

"She is one of my children now. I will not differentiate between her and my children," Khalil al Sawadi, the baby girl's uncle and cousin to one of her parents, told AP. "She will be dearer than my children because she will keep the memory alive of her father, mother and siblings."

Sawadi is one of the rescuers who found the little girl and took her to the hospital. After finding the baby, al Sawadi cut the umbilical cord with a razor blade and first took her to a nearby hospital alongside another cousin.

The relatives visited baby Afraa frequently, worried that someone might kidnap her due to the international attention surrounding the infant's story. Some people had even shown up at the hospital pretending to be related to the baby.

After the hospital confirmed the baby was healthy, the baby was taken to two other hospitals, one of which was in Afrin. But both were too full. At a children's hospital, where the baby remained until last week, officials there initially named the little girl Aya, which means "a sign from God" in Arabic.

The hospital entrusted the aunt and uncle with the infant after conducting a DNA test to ensure they were truly related to the little girl, a hospital official told CP. The baby stayed at the hospital for two weeks until the paperwork for the adoption was complete.

As The Christian Post reported, it's unknown if the newborn's mother went into labor while she was stuck in the ruins. In addition to her mother, the baby girl's father, Abdullah, and four siblings all died.

In a statement earlier this month to Agence France-Press, Hani Maarouf, a pediatrician at the Afrin-based clinic where the baby was first brought to, reported that the little girl was initially in bad health but now is now in a stable condition.

"She had several bruises and lacerations all over her body," Maarouf said. "She also arrived with hypothermia because of the harsh cold. We had to warm her up and administer calcium."

The baby's uncle told AFP that he and the rescuers heard a voice while digging through the wreckage. Video footage of the baby being recovered shows a man holding a baby covered in dust in his arms, with another man giving him a blanket to warm the infant.

In a separate statement to AP, Maarouf said that the newborn weighed roughly 7 pounds and was carried nearly to term.

"Our only concern is the bruise on her back, and we have to see whether there is any problem with her spinal cord," he said.

On Friday, the country's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) reported that the latest death toll in Turkey and Syria has passed 50,000. In Turkey, 44,218 people died as a result of the disaster, while the death toll in Syria was 5,914.

The earthquake that struck the region on Feb. 6 measured a magnitude of 7.6.
Northern Seminary president placed on leave amid HR investigation into bullying allegations

The board of Northern Seminary in Illinois has announced that President Bill Shiell is taking an indefinite leave of absence as he faces allegations of bullying and retaliation against female staff in key leadership roles.

Shiell's leave was announced in an email to the faculty, staff and students last week, according to The Roys Report. Another email sent two days earlier announced the opening of a "confidential" human resources investigation into Shiell's leadership.

"The Board takes these complaints seriously and must fully understand all aspects of this confidential HR issue, and any ancillary issues," reads the email. "The Board has asked for a thorough review of all pertinent information and expects a status report or the finalization of the inquiry within a month."

The Christian Post reached out to Northern Seminary for confirmation of Shiell's leave of absence since the seminary has posted no public announcement. A response was not received by press time.

Formerly known as the Northern Baptist Theological Seminary, the seminary in the suburbs of Chicago is affiliated with the American Baptist Churches USA and was established in 1913. In the 2021-2022 school year, there were 346 students enrolled at the seminary.

The board initiated the investigation after concerns were raised by members of the Northern Seminary community who spoke with The Roys Report. The women alleged that Shiell has a history of bullying and retaliating against female staff who push back on his decisions.

Some members of the seminary community had urged the board to address Shiell's behavior for months  in some cases, years.

The women describe Shiell as "controlling" and misogynistic.

The board has agreed to a third-party investigation by lawyer Maureen Maffei with 17 former and current staff testifying against Shiell, The Roys Report states.

Former Chief Administrative Officer Ava Ivy told the outlet that Shiell treated some women like flies "picking off pieces of her wings."

Jennifer Boysen, Northern's chief development officer, claims the board retaliated against her for being a whistleblower.

"The entire board is complicit in attempting to silence and cover up the realities in front of them," Boysen was quoted as saying. "Not one member has reached out to see how I'm doing, even after reporting an ongoing pattern of retaliation. I have lost all faith in their ability to do the right thing."

Dozens of students, led by Justin Charles and Karen Smith, have signed a letter to the board expressing concerns about the allegations against Shiell.

"We are reiterating our expectations that you will make Christoform decisions that bring justice to the victims, as well as a Tov environment to all areas of Northern Seminary," the letter reads.

Tommy Lee, executive director of Northern's Grow Center for Church and Mission, sent a strongly worded warning that if Shiell doesn't resign, he will suspend all operations at the Grow Center.

"If there is even a hint that a woman or employee felt mistreated or felt bullied, you need to either change the behavior and seek forgives or be fired," Lee wrote in an email. "There's no place where anyone despite their age, position, sex, or color, should not feel equal compared to everyone else."
One year after Russia invaded, millions of Ukrainians want to go home

Olga, a mother of three from Odessa, Ukraine, chose to flee with her ailing mother when she realized nowhere in her home country was safe.



They traveled first to Moldova, then to Romania, where theyre now safe and receiving support from Bethany Christian Services. Keeping her family together and unharmed has been her central goal for a year now: The first anniversary of Russias invasion was February 24.



Thats one year without their old community. Thats one year away from their home, their family, their culture, and their way of life. And shes just one of 7.5 million Ukrainians who fled their homeland during the war.



At first, the outpouring of prayers and support for Ukraine was overwhelming. One year later, theyve largely fallen out of the news cycle.



But they need our help more than ever. Ukrainians facing a brutally cold winter with gas shortages, as well as the ongoing trauma of a yearlong war. They are exhausted, and they still dont know when theyll be able to go home for good  and they desperately want to do so.



Overwhelmingly, the reported reason for returning to Ukraine in spite of active conflict is a simple desire to go home and to be reunified with family. Over 6 million return trips to Ukraine have been documented since the beginning of the war. Most of these have been attempts to visit family members, collect documents, or check on property. In the long term, 81% of displaced Ukrainians hope to return home permanently.



Its important that we do everything we can to make that return home possible. Pray fervently alongside us for a peaceful end to the conflict. Donate to organizations involved in crisis support for the families who suffer as it continues. Advocate on their behalf when you see the opportunity. If you can, volunteer in refugee support programs in your area or in the nations that now harbor so many Ukrainians.



But they also need our support as they wait out the war  and there are real, practical steps we can take to help. Bethanys own programming focuses, among other things, on family strengthening and reunification. And that isnt just because Ukrainian families want to stay together. They need to stay together, now more than ever. Every person deserves to feel safe, loved, and connected  and families provide that best.



Thats why we focus on offering wraparound crisis support, psychosocial services, medical and material supplies, transport, and legal assistance to Olgas family and others like hers.



These vulnerable, precious families are the future of Ukraine. Whats more, we as American Christians have been given a rare opportunity to witness and minister to them in their moment of greatest need. Their future, and their nations future, depend upon it.
'I have a master's degree': Teacher says it's a 'mistake' to let parents have a say in curriculum ParentalRights.org tells CP the Parental Rights Amendment comes at a historic moment in 118th Congress

An Arizona teacher's comments at a state Senate Education Committee hearing have gone viral after she suggested that allowing parents to make decisions about what their children are taught is a mistake.

Special education teacher Alicia Messing of Phoenix made the comments during a Feb. 15 hearing on Senate Bill 1700, which would give parents oversight over the content their children are being taught amid concerns that students in public schools are being shown or given access to sexual content.

Among other things, SB1700 requires the Arizona Department of Education to maintain a prohibited book list that would ban any books included on the list from use at public schools or from being made available to students, including books that are lewd or sexual, promote gender fluidity or gender pronouns or groom children into normalizing pedophilia.

The bill also allows parents to petition the state's education department to categorize any book the parent finds to be lewd or sexual in nature, promote gender fluidity or gender pronouns or groom children into normalizing pedophilia as a prohibited book.

During the public comment portion of the Senate Education Committee meeting, Messing raised concerns about giving parents veto power over curriculum involving LGBT issues and other topics.

I have a masters degree because when I got certified, I was told I had to have a masters degree to be an Arizona-certified teacher, Messing said in the clip. What do the parents have?

Messing then appeared to suggest that parents and not teachers should be subject to background investigations and referred to students at public schools as our children.

Are we vetting the backgrounds of our parents? Are we allowing the parents to choose the curriculum and the books that our children are going to read? she said. I think that its a mistake, and I am just speaking from the heart.

Messing concluded with the following statement: The one line that I love is we must remember that the purpose of public education is not to teach only what parents want their children to be taught, it is to teach them what society needs them to be taught.

SB 1700 was passed by the Senate Education Committee and will head to a full vote in the state Legislature.

In 2021, Messing signed a pledge with more than 4,000 teachers from across the U.S. who vowed to continue teaching critical race theory (CRT) and other controversial curriculum regardless of whether it violated state law.

The Pledge to Teach the Truth opposed legislative efforts to prohibit teachers from teaching the truth about this country: It was founded on dispossession of Native Americans, slavery, structural racism and oppression; and structural racism is a defining characteristic of our society today.  We, the undersigned educators, refuse to lie to young people about U.S. history and current events  regardless of the law.

The fight for parental rights in public education has gained momentum since last October when Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives introduced a constitutional amendment to protect parental rights amid heightened concerns about the state of American public education.

Introduced by Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., the proposed amendment contains five sections, with one declaring that "the liberty of parents to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their children is a fundamental right."

The proposal also contends that "the parental right to direct education includes the right to choose, as an alternative to public education, private, religious, or home schools, and the right to make reasonable choices within public schools for one's child."

As a proposed constitutional amendment, the Parental Rights Amendment has a higher threshold to clear than most legislation before it can take effect. It must secure the support of two-thirds of the U.S. Senate and the House, and then three-fourths of the state Legislatures must ratify it.

The Parental Rights Amendment, crafted by the advocacy group ParentalRights.org, has been introduced in every session of Congress dating back to the 110th Congress, which convened from 2007-2008.

In an interview with The Christian Post, Will Estrada of ParentalRights.org and the Parental Rights Foundation said the bill comes at a historic moment.

"This is the first time that the amendment has been introduced when everybody across the country has been talking about parental rights," he said. "But the thing that's different this time is [parental rights] was not a high priority among the general population for the longest amount of time.

"That changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, when parents were home from work, working from home, when kids were doing Zoom school at the kitchen table and parents were disappointed ... with the quality of public education."
International Court of Justice orders Azerbaijan to end blockade hurting Armenian Christians

The International Court of Justice has ordered Azerbaijan to end the more than two-month blockade of the Lachin Corridor connecting Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia, essentially keeping 120,000 from accessing food, medicine and other essentials.

Under last Thursdays binding order of the principal judicial organ of the United Nations, Azerbaijan must take all measures within its power to ensure the unimpeded movement of people, vehicles and cargo in both directions along the Lachin Corridor under its obligations to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

"The Court observes that, since 12 December 2022, the connection between Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia via the Lachin Corridor has been disrupted. The Court notes that a number of consequences have resulted from this situation and that the impact on those affected persists to this date," an official summary of the order states.

"The information available to the Court indicates that the disruption on the Lachin Corridor has impeded the transfer of persons of Armenian national or ethnic origin hospitalized in Nagorno-Karabakh to medical facilities in Armenia for urgent medical care. The evidence also indicates that there have been hindrances to the importation into Nagorno-Karabakh of essential goods, causing shortages of food, medicine and other life-saving medical supplies."

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is a long-standing dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. The region is recognized internationally as part of Muslim-majority Azerbaijan even though it has a majority Armenian population and is controlled by ethnic Armenians as the unrecognized Republic of Artsakh, a de facto independent state not recognized by the United Nations.

Armenian Christians living in Nagorno-Karabakh (known to Armenians as Artsakh) are facing dire conditions due to the blockade thats preventing much-needed food, medicine, and other resources from reaching the region.

The blockade has been in place for more than two months, with Azerbaijani protestors blocking the only road into the landlocked territory.

Despite the ruling, an independent news blog that reports on military developments in the region, Nagorno Karabakh Observer, tweeted Sunday that the blockade was still in place.

#NagornoKarabakh authorities refute news on social media that #Azerbaijans roadblock has been lifted, The Observer wrote.

The state-run Artsakh InfoCenter also wrote on Facebook that The information circulating in social networks, according to which the only road connecting Artsakh with Armenia has been opened, is false."

"The only way connecting Artsakh to Armenia has been blocked by Azerbaijan for 78 days," the Artsakh InfoCenter stated in a post Monday.

Baroness Caroline Cox, a prominent member of the U.K.s House of Lords, expressed her concern over the situation last week.

The situation is now very, very serious. Indeed, it has been said by people, it may indeed be an impending genocide, she told CBN News.

With Armenians suffering from a shortage of food and medicine, patients in urgent need of medical attention are being hampered.

The shortage of medicines is very, very serious, especially medicines like insulin for people with diabetes, and the transfer of patients from Karabakh into Armenia needing urgent medical treatment, that has been very, very much stymied, Cox stated. One has already died, so it is a very dire situation indeed.

The potential destruction of Christian churches, historic landmarks and entire cultures is also a concern.

"This could be another stage of genocide, destruction of Christian people, destruction of Christian heritage. And we need to pray," she said.

Gayane Beglarian, whose 4-year-old daughter suffers from liver cancer, recently told CBN News that the family was frightened and worried about her child missing life-saving treatment.

But after weeks of anxiously waiting, the Red Cross helped the family exit. Gayane emphasized that other ailing residents also need help.

We have no necessary equipment; we have no doctors who can come there and have necessary treatment," she said.

In a letter to U.S. President Joe Biden last month, John Eibner, the president of Christian Solidarity International, and Baroness Cox urged the United States to take action.

The letter called for a resolution at the United Nations Security Council that would authorize a humanitarian airlift into the region if Azerbaijan does not comply.

You are the first American president to recognize the Armenian Genocide, Eibner and Baroness Cox wrote. We urge you not to allow another Armenian Genocide to occur on your watch.

CSI, a Christian human rights organization that promotes religious liberty and human dignity, said its all part of an ongoing genocide.

A process of genocide has been underway since the Ottoman massacres of Armenians in the late 19th century, Eibner told The Christian Post at the time.

What is generally called the Armenian Genocide (1915-'18) was, in fact, a broader genocide of Christians, including the Syriacs/Assyrians/Aramaeans. It was the high point of a process that continues in waves until the present day, the CSI president said.

It continued in the Caucasus after the end of the First World War and was only suspended by the imposition of Soviet rule. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, the process resumed in the first Karabakh war, again two years ago in the second Karabakh war and now in the strangulation of Karabakh by means of blockade.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has its roots in the early 20th century when the region, which has a majority Armenian population, was part of the Russian Empire and later, the Soviet Union.

In the 1920s, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin established the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Oblast within Soviet Azerbaijan. As the Soviet Union began to collapse in the late 1980s, ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh voted to secede from Azerbaijan and join Armenia. This led to a war between the two countries that lasted from 1988 to 1994, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands of people and the displacement of over 1 million. A ceasefire was signed in 1994, but sporadic violence continued in the region.

In 2016, a four-day war broke out between Armenia and Azerbaijan, resulting in hundreds of deaths. In September 2020, the fighting broke out again, escalated rapidly and resulted in a large-scale military operation by Azerbaijan, with the support of Turkey, to retake the regions of Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding areas under Armenian control.

A ceasefire was signed again in November 2020, but tensions remain high, with both sides accusing each other of ceasefire violations and the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh remaining tense.
Man pleads guilty to homicide while intoxicated in crash that killed pastor

A Milwaukee man who drove through four red lights and killed Wisconsin Pastor Aaron Strong after crashing into him has pleaded guilty in court of vehicular homicide while intoxicated.

Jose Silva, 23, who crashed into the car of the 40-year-old pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in downtown Milwaukee on Oct. 12, 2022, pleaded guilty on Friday, CBS' Milwaukee affiliate reported, adding that a sentencing hearing has been scheduled for April 20. He had previously been charged with second-degree reckless homicide.

The pastor died at a local hospital and an autopsy suggested he died from multiple blunt-force injuries.

Authorities estimated Silva was speeding at 74 mph just before the accident, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel said at the time. He told police he was running late for jury duty at the Milwaukee County Courthouse.

Surveillance from Marquette University showed Silvas car speeding prior to the crash, according to the complaint, which also said he didnt apply the brakes until two seconds before the crash. The video also showed the car running a red light while driving the wrong way.

Prosecutors said he ran four red lights before crashing into the pastors car while intoxicated.

Grace Downtown announced Strongs death on Facebook last October, asking people to keep Abbie Strong and their children, Hannah and Elijah, in your prayers.

Like Job, the question Why? troubles all of us regarding this tragedy. Like Job, we are reminded that our majestic God does not always provide an answer to that question. But what brings us everlasting comfort is that Gods mercy shines as bright as his majesty, stated the church.

The Rev. Brian Hackmann, an outreach pastor at Grace, remembered Pastor Strong as a person that was full of joy.

He was full of life, Hackman was quoted as saying. He had a smile on his face, an infectious laugh. He was a person that was pretty easy to get along with.  He had the love of Jesus in his heart in a big way.

Strong had preached his final sermon the previous Sunday, titling it The Gift That Keeps on Giving and focused his remarks on 2 Corinthians 9:10-15.
At least 59 people, including 12 children, perished early Sunday morning when a wooden sailing vessel bringing migrants to Europe collided with rocks along the southern Italian coast, according to authorities.

The ship, which departed from Turkey and was carrying passengers from Afghanistan, Iran, and numerous other nations, sank in strong waves before morning near the coastal resort of Steccato di Cutro on the eastern coast of Calabria.

Italy Shipwreck Ignites Migration Issue in Europe

The tragedy reignited the migration issue in Europe and Italy. The recently-elected right-wing government's strict new restrictions for migrant rescue organizations have garnered criticism from the United Nations and others.

A regional government official, Manuela Curra, told Reuters that 81 individuals had survived the catastrophe. Twenty of them were hospitalized, with one individual requiring acute care. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, who traveled to the area, reported that 20 to 30 individuals may still be missing, despite allegations from survivors that the vessel was carrying 150 to 200 migrants.

The shipwreck left the western Turkish city of Izmir around four days ago. It was sighted approximately 74 kilometers (46 miles) off the Italian coast late Saturday by a Frontex plane, according to Italian authorities.

The authorities dispatched patrol boats to intercept it, but strong weather forced them to return to port, police said, adding that search units were subsequently deployed along the shoreline. According to the ANSA news agency, a newborn infant was washed up on the shore.

In photographs supplied by the coastguard, timbers from the shipwreck could be seen strewn along 200 meters of shoreline, and the shattered hull could slam into the beach due to heavy waves. Per Telegraph via MSN, the central Mediterranean route from North Africa or Turkey to Europe is one of the most treacherous water crossings in the world, with an estimated 20,000 deaths since 2014.

The Italian prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, expressed great grief for the loss of life, describing it as "inhumane to exchange the lives of men, women, and children for the price of a ticket purchased with the false hope of a safe travel." However, opposition parties and humanitarians slammed the Right-wing administration for putting strict new limits on sea rescue NGOs by limiting the number of persons they may save at sea.

A new code of conduct, enacted into law by Italy's parliament last week, mandates rescue ships to request entry to a port and sail to it "without delay" following a rescue, forbidding them from lingering at sea and searching for more migrant boats in difficulty.

Read Also: Volodymyr Zelensky Urges To Meet Xi Jinping To Discuss Peace Plan

Critics Blame New Asylum Restrictions

According to critics, the new limits have raised operational expenses, resulting in fewer rescue ships in the Mediterranean and reducing the likelihood of a prompt rescue in the event of disasters. In his weekly message, Pope Francis said he was praying for "every one of them, the missing and the other survivors" involved in the Italy shipwreck.

The right-wing administration of Prime Minister Matteo Meloni has sworn to prevent migrants from reaching Italy's beaches and, in recent days, has pushed through strict new rescue legislation. Former Italian finance minister Carlo Calenda stated that those in need at sea should be rescued "at any cost," but "illegal immigration routes must be blocked."

Chairperson of the European Commission Ursula van der Leyen stated that she was "deeply pained" by the occurrence and that the loss of innocent refugees' lives was a tragedy. She noted that it was essential to "redouble our efforts" to achieve headway on revising EU asylum regulations to address Europe's migratory difficulties.

Since 2014, more than 20,000 people have died or gone missing at sea in the central Mediterranean, according to monitoring organizations. Regina Catrambone, the head of the Migrant Offshore Aid Station, which conducts search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean, told the BBC that European nations must collaborate to assist people in need.

She also demanded an end to the "myopic" notion that nations physically closer to Africa and the Middle East should take the lead in addressing the problem.

Related Article: Migrant Crisis: Biden's New Border Policy Limits Asylum for Immigrants

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New York City to name Harlem block after anti-Semitic Nation of Islam leader

The New York City Council has voted to name a block in Harlem after Elijah Muhammad, the controversial late leader of the Nation of Islam, despite his well-documented history of anti-Semitism and association with neo-Nazis.

The plan is to rename the intersection of West 127th Street and Malcolm X Boulevard "The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad Way." Although the proposal received pushback from Republican council members, it was passed at the council's meeting on Feb. 16.

From 1934 until he died in 1975, the Chicago religious leader led the Nation of Islam, which even the far-left Southern Poverty Law Center recognizes as a "hate" group. The teachings of the Nation of Islam, a black nationalist and religious organization founded in the United States, combine elements of Islam with black nationalism and a focus on racial separatism.

Critics contend Muhammad was a voice of racism and anti-Semitism. He also mentored Louis Farrakhan, the current NOI head, who peddles anti-Semitic rhetoric.

Muhammed espoused anti-Jewish sentiments and invited American Nazi Party leader George Lincoln Rockwell to the Nation of Islam's 1962 convention.

"He is not worthy of having a street co-naming in the City of New York, and we should not even be considering this," David Carr, a Republican council member, said at a committee hearing, according to The New York Daily News. "He fails every test we could possibly put forward: the test based on the values and views of today, and the values and views of the times in which he lived and worked."

The proposal was put forward by far-left council member Kristin Richardson Jordan, who represents Harlem and argues that it is important not to "erase black leaders who are not pleasing to white people."

The location being renamed is the site of an NOI mosque where Malcolm X preached and where an NYPD officer was slain in 1972 by unidentified NOI radicals while responding to a false emergency call, according to The New York Post.

The U.S.-based international Jewish non-governmental organization Anti-Defamation League describes the NOI as "the largest Black nationalist organization in the U.S.," which has maintained "a consistent record of antisemitism and bigotry since its founding in the 1930s."

"During his 40-year tenure as the NOI's leader, Louis Farrakhan, has built a legacy of divisiveness as one of the most prominent antisemites in America. He has also espoused anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-white bigotry, as well as a range of conspiratorial beliefs," it adds.

Although the NOI's official membership is relatively small, with less than 50,000 people, ADL reports that "the influence of Farrakhan and NOI teachings has regularly extended into the mainstream."

"The NOI's theological beliefs and practices differ significantly from the dominant sects of Islam, and many do not consider the organization to be a mainstream Muslim religious group."

The vote to name the block after Muhammad comes as the city has taken action to remove statues of American historical figures in recent years.

In 2022, New York City removed a statue of Theodore Roosevelt from outside the American Museum of Natural History because of its depiction of Native American and African figures.

In late 2021, NYC removed a statue of Thomas Jefferson from the City Hall because the third president had owned slaves.

At the time, Jerry Newcombe, executive director of the Providence Forum, an outreach of D. James Kennedy Ministries, wrote an op-ed for The Christian Post remarking that "a nation that doesn't know what it was yesterday doesn't know what is today, nor does it know where it's going tomorrow."
Vivek Ramaswamy Presidential Candidate, James O'Keefe Resigns From Project Veritas, 'Jesus Revolution' In Theaters Now

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 09:42 09:42

Top headlines for Saturday, February 25, 2023



Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy entered the race for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination Tuesday, joining a field that includes former President Donald Trump, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and other lesser-known candidates. Here are five things to know about the latest entrant into the presidential race.



An incarcerated pregnant woman accused of murder is petitioning for her release on the grounds that her unborn child is being unlawfully detained and being prevented from receiving proper medical care.



Inspired by the revival worship taking place at their campus, scores of students from Cedarville University in Ohio traveled to campus across the region to proclaim the Gospel.



Journalists around the country mourned the loss of a Spectrum News 13 reporter who was fatally shot Wednesday while covering a murder scene in Pine Hills, Florida.



The filmmakers, cast and real-life people behind Jesus Revolution descended on the Chinese Theater to celebrate the film's release and reflect on the story's timeliness  especially for young people today.
History tells us there's no such thing as a perfect revival, but ...

As a church historian, it has been interesting to see how Christians have responded to the recently concluded revival at Asbury University. Some people thanked God for the outpouring of His spirit, while others cautiously encouraged the revival but warned that only time will tell if this bears fruit.

Then there are the naysayers.

The charges leveled against this revival ranged from not teaching repentance of Asburys egalitarian position to delegitimizing its value because there is not an overt antiracist message. There were also the typical charges of emotionalism and lack of preaching. This is not surprising. Jonathan Edwards wrote several works defending the First Great Awakening against people who discredited that revival because it did not meet their criteria. He also articulated the differences between genuine revival and false spirituality.

A look at the history of revivals teaches us that if we are looking for a perfect revival or a perfect revivalist who meets our specific criteria, we will not find them. But God uses them.

During the First Great Awakening in the early 18th century, the birth of the evangelical movement took place outdoors at Second and Market streets in Philadelphia, at Boston Common, and up and down the eastern seaboard, when itinerant preacher George Whitefield took the colonies by storm with his message of the new birth. We learn from Benjamin Franklin that Whitefield was not allowed to speak in many churches in Philadelphia because clergy disagreed with his message, so Whitefield took to the streets. Prior to these revivals, Edwards witnessed a revival in his own church in Northampton, Conn., and received attacks from fellow clergy.

If we were to judge the First Great Awakening by some criteria being used on social media today, we would say it was a failure, because Jonathan Edwards never repented of owning African slaves, and Whitefield never repented of using slaves to build his orphanage in Georgia. But by doing that, we fail to see that it was during this revival when African-Americans began embracing Christianity in large numbers, even though Whitefield spoke blocks from one of Philadelphias slave markets.

Second, while Edwards could not see the sin of race-based chattel slavery, the young men of New England who were impacted by the revivals and studied with Edwards, including Jonathan Edwards Jr., went on to apply his fathers theology to oppose slavery. Another of Edwards students, Samuel Hopkins, wrote to the Constitutional Congress asking for slavery to be outlawed.

Throughout the first half of the 19th century was a series of revivals known as the Second Great Awakening. Theologians have been critical of some of these revivals because of chief architect Charles Finneys use of new measures that attempted to create revival with theatrics, prolonged services, decisionism, and a guilt-inducing preaching style.

These revivals led to some false conversions and a region of America in upstate New York to be referred to as the Burned-Over District. But not all revivals had Finneys stamp, and 19th-century revivalism helped birth the abolitionist movement, the temperance movement, the Sunday school movement, public education, and womens rights.

After an economic downturn, revivals erupted on Wall Street, known as the Businessmens Revivals of 1857-58. These revivals emerged with the sectional tensions in America at a fever pitch. Christians hoped that a revival would heal the nation, so they refused to allow slavery to be mentioned during the services because it was too divisive.

Of course, these revivals did not heal America and instead avoided the big elephant in the room, but it was during these events that the Holiness Movement made inroads in mainline evangelicalism, social reform grew, and denominations worked together. During the Civil War, revival also regularly took place in both Union and Confederate army camps.

Despite all the revivalism of the 19th century, Americans did not collectively repent of racism or slavery, and for some naysayers, this made them a failure. Had they led to that type of repentance, America would be a better place, and hundreds of thousands of men would not have died. After four years of bloodshed, in 1867, the Holiness Movement was birthed in Vineland, N.J.

The history of revivalism teaches us that revivals don't eradicate all sins  glaring ones nor our pet ones. In fact, not all Christians see the need for the same repentance. Edwards understood the complexity of revivalism and repentance when he wrote in Religious Affections,  it is a mysterious thing, and what has puzzled and amazed many a good Christian, that there should be that which is so divine and precious, as the saving grace of God, and the new and divine nature dwelling in the same heart, with so much corruption, hypocrisy, and iniquity, in a particular saint. Yet neither of these is more mysterious than real. And neither of them is a new or rare thing. Ironically, Edwards could write this and not see his own blind spots. None of this justifies unrepentant sin, but it does help explain it.

Before anyone judges this latest revival too quickly, they should be cautious and pray that it leads to repentance of personal and national sins. However, we should not expect our list of sins to be eradicated as we think they should.

If history and Scripture are our guides, we may not know how God will use this revival for a generation and that Gods ways are inscrutable.
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Feature: Heartwarming reply from "Grandpa Xi" cheers up young envoys of Hungary-China friendship

Xinhua) 08:32, February 27, 2023

BUDAPEST, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- "It was a very heartwarming thing. It really lifted the mood at the school," Erdelyi Zsuzsanna, head of Hungarian-Chinese Bilingual School, smiled when talking about Chinese President Xi Jinping's reply to a letter from students of her school.

"We were very happy that there was a reply so quickly," Erdelyi told Xinhua recently at her school in Budapest. "We were very happy, because we thought that a person in such a high position would not be sure to respond to the students' letter."

"We are very proud of our students for writing such a letter and for receiving such a nice response," she said.

Yang Chao (R), charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Hungary, presents a book to Erdelyi Zsuzsanna, head of Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school, at the school in Budapest, Hungary, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

Before the Spring Festival, Varga Bonita and Imre Tamara, two Hungarian students whose Chinese names are Hu Lingyue and Song Zhixiao, wrote a letter to Xi and his wife, Professor Peng Liyuan, on behalf of all students in the school, conveying their New Year's greetings.

In their letter, they also spoke about what it felt studying Chinese in the school for 12 years, and expressed their willingness to study in Chinese universities and contribute to the Hungary-China friendship.

Days later, Xi replied, saying he still remembers chatting with teachers and students of the school in 2009, while encouraging Hungarian youths to learn more about China and become envoys of the China-Hungary friendship.

On Friday, Yang Chao, charge d'affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Hungary, officially delivered Xi's letter to the school.

Varga Bonita (L) and Imre Tamara, two Hungarian students whose Chinese names are Hu Lingyue and Song Zhixiao, speak in an interview with Xinhua at Hungarian-Chinese Bilingual School in Budapest, Hungary, Feb. 7, 2023. (Xinhua/Deng Yaomin)

Speaking in fluent Chinese, Varga and Imre said they are "very excited and honored" to receive Xi's letter, and hope to go to China for their college study.

After winning the Chinese Ambassador Scholarship for the second time in January, "Imre and I decided to write to Grandpa Xi to express our gratitude and convey our Spring Festival greetings," Varga told Xinhua.

"Our dream is to be a translator. This letter will encourage us to continue working hard to study Chinese and become an excellent translator," said Varga, who loves Chinese tea culture and enjoys online Chinese food programs.

Stifter Adam, deputy state secretary for Development of Oriental Relations of Hungary's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said the school has been "one of the best examples of cultural and educational cooperation" between Hungary and China.

Students perform a poetry recitation in Chinese at Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school in Budapest, Hungary, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

"By getting to know the history and culture of China's language, the students' knowledge increases, and this greatly contributes to the development of cultural relations and friendship between the two countries," Stifter said.

"Getting to know each other's culture was the primary goal" in the school's development, said Lebanov Jozsef, head of the Public Education Strategy Department of the State Secretariat for Public Education of Hungary's Ministry of Interior.

"I feel that the past two decades have proven with absolute certainty that our vision has succeeded," he said.

"Today's event also shows that there is a living close relationship between the school's students and China, and that the students studying here are particularly attentive to the cradle of the Chinese language and culture they learn here," he added.

A student views drawings at Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school in Budapest, Hungary, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

When the bilingual school was founded in September 2004, Erdelyi recalled, most of the students were Chinese native speakers or children of mixed parentage.

"However, as time went on, there was an increasing interest in learning the Chinese language here in Hungary, and it gained momentum in 2008 after the Beijing Olympics. Since then, the development has been unbroken," Erdelyi said. "Today, most of the students are Hungarian native speakers and study Chinese continuously for five hours a week."

Currently, the only full-time school in Central and Eastern Europe that uses Chinese and the local language for instruction has 12 grades and 20 classes with more than 530 students.

Students practice martial arts at Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school in Budapest, Hungary, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

"We can proudly say that many of our students have passed the baccalaureate exam and advanced baccalaureate exam, and obtained language exams in Chinese. Some of them have even gone to China as scholarship students," Erdelyi said.

"In 2009, when Mr. Xi Jinping, China's vice president at the time, visited Hungary, he assured our school that he would support and help its development. I think he fulfilled this promise to the maximum, fulfilled it, and created all the opportunities for the students studying here ... so that teaching could go well and all tools and help should be available for us," she said.

A Chinese teacher instructs students on Chinese calligraphy at Hungarian-Chinese bilingual school in Budapest, Hungary, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Lian Yi)

In his reply letter, Xi also said that he hopes the students have the opportunity to travel around China, learn more about today's China as well as its history and culture.

Erdelyi, who has visited China several times since 2007 and had "fantastic experiences" there, said Xi's words resonated with her, stressing that it is important for the students to "test the knowledge" they acquire in Hungary.

Looking into the future, the school head said she expects more programs of this kind, so as to further strengthen the cultural exchanges between Hungary and China.

"The school can form a bridge between the two countries, where the students studying here can later work a lot in building relations between the two countries, since they speak the mother tongue of both countries very well," she said.

"Many Chinese companies have already settled here in Hungary and started operation. There is also an opportunity here to develop the students' knowledge and Chinese language skills. They can help to strengthen and develop these relations," she added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meets with European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen to finalize discussions regarding the controversial North Ireland agreement.

The two officials discussed a potential deal that would resolve post-Brexit trade issues that have caused problems in North Ireland. The two leaders on Sunday released a joint statement announcing plans for the UK-based meeting.

Rishi Sunak To Meet with Ursula Von der Leyen

The statement read that Von der Leyen and Sunak agreed to continue their cooperative work towards shared, practical solutions for the number of issues surrounding the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Last week, British MPs were told that they must be in parliament on Monday, which suggested that a prospective deal between Brussels and London was fast approaching. Over the weekend, Downing Street insisted that the two sides have yet to agree on a deal.

During an interview on Sunday, Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said he hoped an announcement regarding the issue would be made in a matter of days. This was after Sunak, during an interview, insisted that he was "giving it everything we've got" to secure a deal with Brussels, as per Politico.

Last week, Prime Minister Sunak held talks with his MPs and several members of the Democratic Unionist party. The latter is responsible for blocking the formation of a devolved power-sharing government to oppose the NI protocol arrangements.

The deal Sunak and Von der Leyen will discuss aims to resolve the issues caused by the 2020 post-Brexit arrangements that govern the British province and its open border with Ireland. However, it remains to be seen whether or not the deal will go far enough to end the political deadlock in Northern Ireland.

The European Commission president is set to travel to Britain for the talks that are scheduled for late lunchtime. After which, Sunak will hold a meeting of his cabinet. The British prime minister's office said that if the two officials reach an agreement, it would be immediately announced via a joint news conference.

Read Also: Hungary's Take on Finland, Sweden NATO Bids

Northern Ireland Protocol

Sunak's office said that the prime minister wanted to ensure that any agreement could fix the practical problems on the ground, ensure that trade flows freely within the UK, safeguard Northern Ireland's place in the Union, and return sovereignty to its people, according to Reuters.

The British prime minister is optimistic about a successful negotiation with Von der Leyen that would help him focus voters' attention on domestic reforms. It comes as he seeks to overcome the opposition Labour Party's lead in opinion polls ahead of an expected national election in 2024.

A spokesperson said that officials have conducted "hundreds of hours of talks" during the "intensive negotiations with the EU." They added that lawmakers stayed positive and made constructive progress regarding the discussions.

The situation comes as critics argue that the current environment undermines Northern Ireland's position within the rest of the United Kingdom and impacts trade flows. The nation's Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) complained of a "democratic deficit" as the region has been subject to EU rules and has no power to sway them, said BBC.

Related Article: Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Arrested Over Corruption Allegations

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According to the Justice Ministry of Turkey, about 200 persons have been arrested for alleged substandard building construction following the tragic earthquake that shook Turkey earlier this month.

Around 50,000 people were killed in Turkey and Syria due to the February 6 earthquake. The government reported 626 "suspects" after buildings completely collapsed or were severely damaged due to the tremors.

Turkey Widens Probe Over Building Collapses

Several suspects perished in the earthquake while authorities continued searching for others. Bekir Bozdag, the justice minister of Turkey, stated on Saturday that evidence had been gathered from thousands of buildings. More than 5,700 buildings have fallen in Turkey, according to the country's disaster service, and the structural integrity of buildings in certain impacted districts has been questioned.

Construction rules were strengthened following prior catastrophes, which should have ensured that modern structures could resist strong earthquakes. Nonetheless, many destroyed structures in the affected zone looked to have been recently erected.

Citizens and specialists are now asking whether the government made the required efforts to enforce construction standards. Yasemin Didem Aktas, a structural engineer and lecturer at University College London, told CNN that although the earthquake and its aftershocks were "a very powerful event that would challenge even code-compliant buildings," the extent of the damage indicates that the structures did not meet safety standards.

The purpose of the amnesties was to legitimize older, substandard structures that had been constructed without the required permissions. In addition, they did not mandate that developers bring their properties up to code. More than 160,000 structures collapsed or were seriously damaged in Turkey due to the sequence of destructive earthquakes, the biggest of which measured 7.8 on the Richter scale.

Others have questioned if the impact of the natural disaster was increased by the construction of dangerous houses, which experts have warned against for years. In the nation, construction rules are rarely implemented, resulting in structures that need to meet the earthquake-engineering requirement toppling innocent people.

Read Also: Italy Shipwreck Kills 59 in Migrant Disaster

Turkey President Accused of Deflecting Blame

Construction professionals have accused President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of neglecting to enforce building laws. A failure that has caused extensive destruction. According to Turkish media, among those arrested was the mayor of one of the towns affected by the earthquakes.

Since the catastrophic earthquake on February 6, Turkey has reportedly seen nine thousand of aftershocks, with the death toll nearing 50,000. This month, it was discovered that the developer who constructed the 249-unit apartment building in which former Chelsea player Christian Atsuin died had been jailed.

Mehmet Yasar Coskun was held at the Istanbul airport due to construction-related concerns. He denied departing the country and said he was only traveling to Montenegro for other assignments. Per Daily Mail, Coskun is rumored to have indicated in leaked evidence that he did not know why the structure could not withstand the two earthquakes that struck the region.

In Turkey and Syria, the verified death toll has already surpassed 50,000. After the earthquakes, more than 160,000 structures fell or were seriously damaged across Turkey, prompting questions about whether human error exacerbated the impact of the natural disaster.

Opposition parties and several construction professionals accuse the administration of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of not enforcing building laws and attempting to deflect blame for the tragedy. According to them, government policies have permitted so-called amnesties for contractors who evaded building laws to promote a construction boom, especially in locations prone to earthquakes.

Erdogan has acknowledged failures but has attempted to blame fate for the magnitude of the calamity. "Such events have always occurred. That is part of the design of fate, "he stated during a recent trip to the area. After 20 years in power, Erdogan's future is in jeopardy with upcoming elections, and his calls for national unity have yet to be heard, as per BBC.

Related Article: Turkey-Syria Earthquake: 2 Tremors Hit Again

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The biggest challenge was explaining to customers outside the country that the company could continue to work at the same level of productivity when there is a full-scale war in your country, how we could work when bombs are flying, and we are promised conquest in three days, says Ivanov. But the companys leaders had confidence, having even signed a contract with a new customer the day of the invasion. I never stick my head in the sand. Being a leader means being able to be responsible and having a contingency plan, Ivanov says. I was lucky because our team is made of people who can be relied upon and have lived up to their expectations. Some employees worked standing in traffic jams while relocating to safer regions of the country.

The first month was the hardest. We all had to come to terms with the fact that what we all feared and didnt want to be had already happened, Ivanov says. However, we had a plan B, and we took advantage of it, took a breath, and quickly adapted to the new reality. The safety of employees and their families came first. We didnt force anyone to work at 100% capacity in the first days, says Ivanov. But the demonstrated responsibility illustrated that our team was incredible. No one gave up and ran away. We didnt fire anyone.

Within a month, the company was recruiting new hires. And twelve months later, the companys service levels give little indication of the ongoing turmoil in other parts of the country. The war changed us, Ivanov admits. But what remains unchanged is our responsibility to our relatives and clients.

Good will and a global talent shortage

In the early days, there was some impact to new business for IT providers in Ukraine. Clients moved work to other destinations and often other firms, says Everest Groups Bendor-Samuel. However, there has been a strong sentiment amongst the clients to support these firms, and much of this work has now returned.

The impact of good will for Ukraine  not just from customers but from the broader global community  cant be understated. Theres been a lot of stickiness and lots of support for Ukraine, says Gartners Gove. Its been pretty remarkable.

The impact of positive sentiment for Ukraine is reflected in the fact that the IT industry in Belarus and Russia, which has a similar profile to Ukraine, has not fared well.

Belarus and Ukraine have similar talent pools with both IT service providers and enterprises sourcing there for tech talent for a long time because of their academic tradition and focus on math an engineering, says Gove. But Belarus has taken a dip because theyre so connected with Russia.

The US and UK are by far the largest market for Ukrainian IT services, following by Malta, Israel, Cyprus, Switzerland, and Germany, according to the IT Ukraine Association. Most [clients] worked to hedge their bets and set up alternative delivery, but if the Ukrainian providers proved they could continue to deliver, they tried to keep the work with them or returned the work or added other work as the new delivery came online, says Bendor-Samuel.

Aimprosoft has been working with some customers for more than a decade and others for a much shorter time when the Russian invasion took place. Swedish ecommerce consultancy Koalitionen had been working with Aimprosoft for two years. Our main concerns prior to the conflict was of humanitarian sort: Would the company be able to provide safety to their employees? says Koalitionen CEO Amir Mofidi. For us, the uncertainty of not knowing if the staff were safe was the most difficult part. We were relieved when we found out that the people that we work with were safe.

Aimprosoft felt supported by its customers. Our clients are amazing, Ivanov says. Some paid the companys developers on their days off. Others offered personal bonuses to Aimprosoft employees. Others sent pics of their children baking cookies to raise money for Ukraine. It touched us to the core, Ivanov says. This empathy once again underscores the fact that business is built not only on numbers but also on human relationships.

Still, performance is critical. Then and today, customers biggest concerns are that the work process may be disrupted because the employee does not get in touch for some reason, data security caused by power supply issues, which impacts whether their business would work tomorrow if a conflict escalated, says Ivanov, noting that healthcare and finance customers have the highest requirements for availability and continuity. But Aimprosoft has been able to maintain its service delivery and retain all of its more than 100 clients.

We were surprised that the downtime was only for a couple of weeks and since then they have been working without any interruptions, says Mofidi. The staff are working as any of our other partners  if not more.

The global shortage of experienced, high-quality engineering and IT talent has also enabled Ukrainian firms to continue to grow even in the most difficult circumstances.

Ukraine has a long tradition of tech leadership, even in uncertain times. The first computer in continental Europe was built in Kyiv in 1951 during the years of postWorld War II reconstruction and closed borders. It was developed in a building that had been restored following significant damage during the citys liberation in 1943.

The country remains a hotbed of talent in part due to a strong academic tradition that nurtures skills in engineering and software development to the tune of more than 31,000 graduates entering the IT labor market annually. (That total dropped to 27,000 last year as some students were forced to suspend their studies during the full-scale invasion.) Prior to 2022, the Russia-Belarus-Ukraine region accounted for about 5% of the global talent pool, according to Gartner.

The availability of skilled engineers and other professionals in Ukraine led a number of global technology firms to set up software development and R&D centers there, including SAP, Snap, Fiverr, Wix.com, Amazons Ring, and Nvidia. Developer platform and services company GitLab started in Ukraine before moving its headquarters to San Francisco.

Companies want and need this talent, says Gartners Gove. Businesses lives and dies based on IT. Both providers and private enterprises have been willing to have an increased risk profile because the tradeoffs have been acceptable. It may not be as safe and straightforward as getting talent from Boston, but its highly desirable.

Looking forward

Operating in Ukraine remains challenging, but providers have been able to keep a significant core of Ukrainian talent safe and working while also standing up new delivery options. Clients continue to seem pleased with the work, and while some are careful of creating too much concentration in Ukraine, they seem comfortable with the new arrangements and willing to continue to support these firms by giving them work, says Everest Groups Bendor-Samuel. It looks to me like the worst is over and the Ukrainian engineering and IT industry is surviving.

Aimprosoft CEO Ivanov notes that new customers may be less willing to hire specialists in Ukraine than they were a year ago. Thats diminished the countrys previous growth trajectory.

Its hard to see Ukraine returning to the same role it played before the war anytime soon. That said, if the war ends soon, it is likely that it will still be a viable destination for the services industry, and over time it may reclaim some of its standing, says Bendor-Samuel. However, it has clearly lost momentum, and the establishment of other eastern European centers due to the movement of work will affect the overall picture.

The global shortage of engineering and IT talent works in Ukraines favor. Given the need for these scarce resources, if Ukraine can rebuild its university programs it will find itself with an attractive export market for services and reestablish itself as a premiere country for delivery centers both with the outsourcing community as well as for global in-house centers, says Bendor-Samuel.

Gartner forecasts no end in sight for the global talent crunch. The willingness for companies to take on more risk [to access that talent] isnt going away, Gove says. Neither is the good will for Ukraine in the marketplace. Thats substantial, Gove says. It will sustain them and allow them to grow.

Still, Ivanov prefers to focus on winning the war and beginning reconstruction quickly. Aimprosofts employees, forcibly resettled to other parts of the country or abroad, are eager to go home  a sign, Ivanov says, that the IT sector has strong roots. Technology workers donate an average of $270 a month toward the Ukrainian cause, says Ivanov.

Every day I see how hard and selflessly our employees work, volunteer, and donate. If these people have not abandoned the country now, they are unlikely to do so after the victory. In addition, Ivanov says, the industry is attracting even more workers with its flexible, remote work model.

We have been through some of the toughest times. Last year showed that the Ukrainian tech sector is incredibly resilient, Ivanov says. The whole world saw that Ukrainians are a nation that adapts quickly to difficult circumstances, and we are an example of that, and so is our business. Modern Ukrainian IT people are successors of their heritage: being hard workers with passion in their hearts.

For more on how Ukrainian IT professionals and organizations are navigating through conflict, see Cybersecurity in wartime: how Ukraines infosec community is coping.
Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701)

Today

Considerable clouds early. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 78F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Rain showers in the evening will evolve into a more steady rain overnight. Low around 55F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.
An internal investigation is underway at the Scouts, after two women who say they were sexually abused by their Scout leader when they were teenagers accused the charity of silencing them, according to the PA news agency.

Scout leader Phillip Perks was arrested and questioned by police in March 2022 about claims of sexual abuse but was found dead days later.

The charitys Welsh branch, Scouts Cymru, kept Perks on until his suspension, days before he died.

Two women claim he was allowed to keep his position for around seven years after they told a Scout commissioner about their allegations, PA news agency reported.

Perks led a scout unit in Penarth for 20 years and received Scoutings highest award in 2020. An inquest into his death is yet to be held but it is believed he took his own life.

The women claim the abuse took place when they were teenagers and Scout members, according to the PA news agency. They say they reported the abuse to other Scout leaders including a commissioner at the charity in the mid-2000s and again in 2016.

It is understood the commissioner denies this. He has since been suspended from his position and is the subject of an internal investigation.

South Wales Police has confirmed it had been investigating Perks on suspicion of sexual assault by touching.

Charity: We will take appropriate action

A Scouts spokesman told Sky News : "The safety of young people in our care is our number one priority.

"We are aware of this case and are in communication with the two young women who have shared their story.

"We are taking the information they've given us very seriously.

"This is a complex and detailed case and we have worked with the police on the issues raised, particularly around the issue of other potential victims.

"We are progressing our own internal investigations and we aim to have that concluded by March 2023. At that point we will make sure that we share with the two young women at the heart of this case with our conclusions.

"If wrongdoing can be established by those who volunteer with us, then we will take appropriate action and if necessary, permanently exclude them from membership of the Scouts.

"Our number one priority remains the safety of young people in our care.

"We work together with statutory agencies and other parties to share relevant information to ensure the safeguarding of young people.

"Everyone at Scouts works to a strict code of practice to put young people first."

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This is part of a series on platforms and the press published jointly by CJR and the UCLA Institute for Technology, Law & Policy.



Two-thirds of counties in America today have no daily newspaper. Over the past decade, the number of newspaper reporters has dropped 47 percent. Print advertising revenue has fallen by two-thirds since 2006.

America is not alone. The World Association of News Publishers highlight declines in ad revenues of 50 percent in Romania and 55 percent in Australia. The number of journalists working in South Africa halved in a decade. In the Middle East, 80 percent of print publications closed in the decade up to 2021.

The digital-first news pioneers believed online news portals would not only fill the void, democratizing the collection and dissemination of information, but also enable citizens to effectively hold power to account. Instead, were seeing news deserts from Colombia to South Africa, from Australia to the United States. Media unable to survive face capture by vested interests and autocratic oligarchs and governments.

But the collapse of journalism and democracy in the face of the internet is not inevitable. Technology is not the problemconcentration of ownership, monopolistic practices, tax avoidance, and profiteering are.

Because while newspapers, TV, and radioand independent online mediahave suffered often terminal decline, the tech giants, including Facebook and Google, have reaped the rich rewards via revenues that used to go to journalism. Today they control the market.

They do so while enriching themselves from content created by freelance journalists and media for which they do not pay, while paying little or no tax. The 2019 Silicon Six report estimated that six tech companies had collectively avoided $155.3 billion in taxes over ten years.

News media, concerned governments, and campaigners have fought back. The Australian Mandatory Bargaining Code fostered negotiations to redistribute $115 million to select, mostly larger, media. The EUs Copyright Directive introduced new rights for publishers to negotiate payment for some content, even if it ignored the rights of freelance journalists to a fair share of the revenues. Global discussions have sought to introduce a global minimum tax rate. More and more governments have imposed digital service taxes, but they are often limited in scope, with tax rates ranging from 2 percent to 7.5 percent of revenue (rather than profit), and so can easily be passed on to consumers.

Media development organizations have begged governments to increase Overseas Development Assistance and established funds to raise pledges from philanthropic donors. Even Google and Facebook themselves, without a hint of irony, pledged funds to support media. None of these projects tackled the root cause of todays media crisis.

Publishers dont want handouts. They want a level playing field. Journalists dont want charity, they want rights. Citizens dont want corporations deciding which media are deserving and which are not.

Google and Facebook are the worlds largest news platformsthey should be treated like other publishers. They must be taxed. Not token minimum tax rates, but taxed equally on their profits with funds used, in part, to support public interest media. Such a tax would not raise millions, but billions.

It is what drove the IFJ to launch its Global Platform for Quality Journalisma set of principles that should guide media sustainability debates.

It is an approach that, through the international trade union movement and with the Tax Justice Network and CICTAR, we have taken to debates on the digital market and global tax rates in the OECD and EU, on initiatives by India at the UN and on media freedom in UNESCO.

Those who resist argue it is an attempt to close down free speechor that we are luddites in a modern world or simply want state funding and control over journalism. They say our aims are laudable but unworkable: How, for instance, do you prevent profit-shifting or avoid stifling innovation?

The COVID-19 pandemic and the economic consequences of that have given momentum and newfound political interest to such ideas. With global initiatives blocked by vested interests or falling short, unions around the world are working on national solutions. The IFJ has supported the work of the Brazilian federation of journalists, FENAJ, to draft legislative proposals for taxing the platforms and the criteria for the establishment of a Fund for the Promotion of Journalism. Similar initiatives are being championed by journalists associations in Peru, Jordan, and the UK.

Brazil will test the water, with the new government set to debate FENAJs proposal this year. Big Tech will engage its vast army of lobbyists. Facebook and Google may black out news and search as a show of strength. We will be accused of threatening freedom of expression.

That is why our campaign in Brazil is aimed not just at the policymakers but citizens toobuilding a coalition of those who want not just a continuation of media as it is but whose voices have been marginalized and dare to dream of there being scarcely a hamlet that does not have its own news media.

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Jeremy Dear is deputy general secretary of the International Federation of Journalists, having served fifteen years as general secretary, president, and organizer for the National Union of Journalists in the UK and Ireland.
One year into the Ukraine war that still leaves the G20 assembly grasping at a consensus that will impact its already terrible relations with the Russian Federation. Many of these nations that have supported Russian sanctions pushed by the US led to ravaged energy and economic sectors. All the G20 nations are scrambling as the results of the conflict have led to undesirable effects.

G20 Assembly Divided Over the Ukraine War

On February 25, the meeting of the G20 held in India led to a no joint communique among the delegates. Finance chiefs prefer to be conservative about general opinion reports Euractiv.

It starkly contrasts the G7, which the Biden administration used as another venue to condemn Vladimir Putin in the steam-rolling of its Zelensky regime proxy. But Washington was opposed by an equally powerful tandem of Moscow and Beijing delegations not taking it sitting down. Western nations have called the Ukraine conflict a full-on war, but Moscow says it is a special military operation.

During the meeting, India, being the host, insisted that war should be omitted from any communique, noted Reuters. New Delhi is the head of the assembly, which has strayed from the influence of the Biden administration but not without attempts from Washington to exert influence by keeping a stance not dictated by anyone that says none of Russia's part in the war. Another is a diplomatic thrust to keep resources flowing from Russia, like oil.

Read Also: Abby Choi Murder: Dismembered Hong Kong Model's Missing Head Found In Soup Pot

Consensus shows that US collaborators act as Washington's efforts to manipulate Dissention comes from French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, saying the group should follow the meeting in Bali, Indonesia, last November. He says some, but not all members, want to blame Russia, cited Outlook.

Le Maire told reporters that the group should condemn Moscow or ignore the advice of India in the joint statement. Another official part of the sanctioning nations is the German Finance Minister Christian Lindner. Last Friday, like the French official, he pushed for condemning Russia, even as the body is lessening the tension that would not jeopardize the body's position.

The G20 is where arguments are increasing, especially now when interests are manipulated or dictated by a group aligned with someone. Economic conflicts were settled in the forum made twenty years back when the economic policies of the western nations clashed. The US and its allies are rallied against Moscow and Beijing.

One source says the group over the communique was hard as Russia and China hindered the allies of the Biden administration. He claimed that India sided with last year's joint statement.

There is a failure of voices echoing the US in the statement, but others block them, which shows only a few want to condemn Russia again. This will leave India to decide what to say, which differs from what Germany and France want.

Sources confirmed that this would keep the west from getting its condemnation when India makes the final communique in a deadlock. New Delhi has yet to give a response to the query.

Related Article: Xi Jinping To Meet Putin Ahead of SCO, G20 Summit

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This is part of a series on platforms and the press published jointly by CJR and the UCLA Institute for Technology, Law & Policy.



When Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago, the Facebook page of Ukrainian TV news channel 5 Kanal was deleted and lost more than half a million followers after reporting on abuses by the Russian army. When it was reopened, the station was warned that its accounts could be restricted and regularly experienced content moderation obstacles resulting from its coverage.

News organizations are dependent on platforms for access to their networks, audiences, data, publishing protocols, advertising revenue, and funding, a dependency that shapes editorial, organizational, and business choices.

Policymakers around the world, from Australia to Canada to India and the US, are trying to make Big Tech pay for the news they use, whether by taxing adtech, granting new licensing rights to news publishers, or improving their collective bargaining rights. A dizzying array of new and innovative journalism initiatives, such as those highlighted by Michael Karanicolas and Preethi Nallu in their articles for this series, have breathed new energy into efforts to save local news.

And despite warnings from internet pioneers and self-serving private actors, these efforts have not broken the internet. In fact, they have resuscitated Australias news industry and prompted a hiring bonanza fueled by an influx of platform funding into the sector.

Which sounds great. Sure, some big media conglomerates will benefit, but so will local journalism. Australia has shown us that.

But the deals that Google and Facebook made with individual publishers have been shrouded in NDA-enforced secrecy and provoked criticism that risk derailing similar bills elsewhere. The lack of transparency related to the value of the deals is problematic not only because it breeds distrust and hostility, but also because it fails to address information asymmetries that are part of the imbalanced relationship between publishers and platforms.

But even these arent the biggest concerns. The main problem with these policy interventions is that they further entrench platforms and reinforce infrastructural dependency by linking publisher revenue even more directly to platform profits.

Taxing adtech, granting new licensing rights to generate news media revenue, or improving collective bargaining for publishers reinforces the infrastructural dependency of news media on platforms. In the effort to redistribute the spoils of the platform economy, policymakers have failed to grapple with the implications of tying financial sustainability of news media even more closely to the platforms in which they are embedded.

Capture is a long-standing concern when it comes to media freedom and independence and the design of regulatory systems that enable editorial autonomy and impede political intervention. This regulatory capitulation to the platformization of news and advertising is fueling a new type of media capture: platform capture.

Platforms provide the technical infrastructure for contemporary journalism, with the largest and most popular platforms controlling not just vast swaths of both the publishing and advertising infrastructure but also access to audiences and control of the AI that fuels content moderation systems.

Content moderation systems determine visibility, monetization, and reach of content and accounts based on opaque rules and even more opaque enforcement. Jose Cabrera outlined some of these challenges with respect to search engine optimization, which similarly compels newsrooms to adapt to the impenetrable logic of algorithmic intermediation. As a result, journalism must adapt to the technical requirements for each platform and the forcing function of their algorithms while navigating the complex and evolving community standards and terms of service as they try to optimize engagement without violating the rules.

Its exhausting and expensive. And it robs journalism of its editorial independence.

The over-moderation and censorship of Palestinian news outlets trying to cover local politics, as Mona Shtaya also wrote about, is illustrative. The fact checkers in Palestine, they cannot work, Tunisian fact checker Zyra Mejri, whose outlet Falso is part of the Arab Fact Checking Network, told me. If they use Hamas for a fact-checking video or something, they get banned or the post disappears for whatever security reasons. But its fact checking.

Similarly, in the wake of the 2021 Myanmar coup, independent Burmese media outlets saw their pages slowed and sharing restricted, and experienced other measures that reduced traffic and reach for potential violation of policies against graphic content, said Burmese journalist Soe Myint.

A year later, when Russia invaded Ukraine, a country where more than half the population get their news on Facebook, independent Ukrainian media saw unprecedented global traffic. Yet content moderation systems erroneously restricted independent media, and account shutdowns threatened the viability of these Ukrainian and Russian media.

The dependency of media outlets and freelance journalists on Facebook, Google, Twitter and similar platforms to publish and disseminate their content means that when they lose access to or have their accounts or content blocked or removed it can have devastating impacts on their journalism, on their traffic and monetization, and on their relationship with their audience.

Ukrainska Pravda, founded by murdered journalist Georgiy Gongadze, saw its average 100 million monthly page views soar 900 percent as people tuned in to a trusted local news source for coverage of the invasion. Yet programmatic revenue dropped 90 percent while native ads on its website virtually disappeared.

Content moderation systems end up censoring and defunding reporting on newsworthy issues, creating additional burdens on news outlets that are already under strain, have limited resources, and are often struggling to evade censorship and repression. This is platform capture at work.

Yet the requirements for algorithmic transparency contained in the Australian News Media Bargaining Code, and contemplated in draft laws elsewhere, are limited to requiring advance notice about changes that could substantially affect news traffic. This isnt about content moderation, which preoccupies journalists and ends up shaping news coverage.

Improved transparency requirements would not only help to redress some of the information asymmetries that have given platforms outsize power over publishers; they would provide the data and information policymakers need to make evidence-based interventions and assess their efficacy.

And meaningful transparency should be part of any new law because it can help build trust.

Too many policy recommendations conceptualize platforms and markets as neutral and propose small tweaks (let the journalists collectively bargain, make the platforms tell us their terms of service more clearly) rather than addressing the underlying political, economic, and technological power structures embedded in the infrastructure of our public sphere.

Just as innovation is needed in the tech sector, it is also needed in the policy world. Why not try taxing Big Tech or consider how copyright and licensing could be reimagined? Or experiment with new types of subsidies, like those envisioned in Brazil, Canada, or South Africa? The EUs recent efforts to legislate greater transparency in the Digital Services Act is also a welcome effort to rethink how we can address some of the underlying information asymmetries that make it so difficult for news media to navigate content moderation systems and understand the link between traffic and revenue.

Some of these approaches might help stave off declining revenues or revitalize some markets, and are worth trying at a time when alternative models of sustainability are desperately needed. But many are short-term interventions that do little to address the fundamental structural imbalances in contemporary journalism, and do not address the core challenge of preventing the tech sector from capturing journalism and further entrenching platform logics in the news industry. Policymakers, platforms, and the press must reenvision how to achieve free, independent, and pluralistic news outlets in the platform era if we are to secure a future for journalism.

Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today

Courtney Radsch is the advocacy director at the Committee to Protect Journalists and author of Cyberactivism and Citizen Journalism in Egypt: Digital Dissidence and Political Change. A veteran journalist and free-expression advocate, she writes about the intersection of media, technology, and human rights.
On February 3, a freight train with hazardous materials on board came off the tracks in East Palestine, Ohio, leading to a massive fire with plumes of black smoke, an evacuation order, and fears about the impact on the environment and public health. The derailment was not initially a big national news story, garnering scant mention on major cable news channels, according to a tool maintained by Stanford University. As the days passed, a variety of commentators started to ask why the media wasnt covering the story more. This invited predictable rejoinders pointing to the coverage that was already out there, especially at the local level; still, as The New Republics Jason Linkins wrote on February 18, the claim that the story was being ignored had some merit, especially when compared to the voluminous national coverage, around the same time, of the Chinese spy balloon (and subsequent UFOs). From many thousands of feet in the air, perhaps the legacy media can see the balloons better, Linkins wrote, but theyre less attuned to the inequities at the root of [stories such as the derailment] and have less of an understanding that politics can best be measured as a force that acts on ordinary people.

Ten days on from Linkinss column, we can (hopefully) all agree that East Palestine is now being covered by the national news media, not to mention various hangers-on who might claim to be a part of it. The trend line for East Palestine on Stanfords cable-news analysis tool has shot up of late. And last week, Politicos Adam Wren filed a dispatch from East Palestine and noted that a media circus had arrived in town. Rudy Giuliani was there recording content for his podcast, Common Sense (yes, really). Also on the scene: a TikToker/YouTuber called Xkitzo, a producer for Sean Hannity, and Erin Brockovich. (Not on the scene: Julia Roberts, who played Brockovich in the eponymous movie and whose absence seemed to offend at least one Fox News pundit.)

What changed in between times? In a word, politics. Writing ten days ago, Linkins pinned the relative paucity of national coverage on the fact that the story lacked an obvious partisan frame, with no clean way to fit it into a tidy left versus right construct. If so, someone forgot to tell right-wing media, swaths of which, as Linkinss colleague Alex Shephard wrote last week, were quick to politicize the derailment. Well, maybe not quick. Tucker Carlson, who didnt mention the derailment on his show until ten days after it happened, suggested to his viewers that Democrats and The Media were ignoring the unfolding disaster in East Palestine because the people who live there are predominantly white and Republican. That narrative, and others like it, spread elsewhere on the right. The three of us, in our own ways, recognized instantly: This is fundamentally our voters, right? J.D. Vance, the newly minted Republican senator for Ohio, said, explicitly referring to a troika of right-wing-media thought leadershimself, Donald Trump, and Carlson (who, unless I missed some very big news, does not need voters)whose burgeoning influence I wrote about last year. More narrowly, conservative talking heads have used the derailment to bash President Biden and Pete Buttigieg, the transportation secretary, occasionally throwing in a homophobic dog whistle for good measure. (Buttigieg is gay.)

Last week, amid mounting criticism that he had not personally visited East Palestine, Buttigieg showed up. So, too, did Trump, who handed out branded water bottles and bragged afterward about the incredible reach his visit had achieved in the media and online, despite what he called the woefully derelict coverage of his visit on Fox. Unlike its right-wing rivals Newsmax and One America News, Fox did not show Trumps speech in East Palestine live; nor did MSNBC or CNN, and yet, at least per the Stanford tool, Trumps visit helped drive the biggest one-day spike in segments mentioning East Palestine across the latter three networks since the derailment. (A CNN town hall the same day helped, too.) Throw in Bidens absencehe was in Ukraine last week, fueling yet another right-wing narrative that he cares more about foreigners than Americansand a bunch of chatter predictably ensued, in mainstream political media, about The Optics of It All. Trump, we were told, had reminded Republicans of his populist star power and secured exactly the kind of optics [his] flagging campaign needed. The White House, we were told, will concede that they were slow to recognize the optics of the seriousness of this. Optics, we were told, are important when youre dealing with a crisis like this.

Political-media chatter has ensued, too, about the broader political significance of the derailment, from overt horserace assessments (the first real split-screen moment of the 2024 campaign) to cliched culture-war hand-wringing (Americas latest political flashpoint; the countrys latest cultural firefight over identity, polarization and the role of government). Weve heard a lot about Republicans saying x (see above) while Democrats have said y (more on which in a moment). In some sense, both sides are right, both sides are wrong and, in the bifurcated politics of this American moment, none of the arguments much matter, Jonathan Weisman wrote in the New York Times. The New York Times Pitchbot Twitter account, which has gained a cult following for prolifically satirizing Timesian bothsidesism, threw up its hands, saying, of Weismans formulation, I cant top this.

If the East Palestine derailment has only become a big national story because it has been politicized (in the narrow partisan sense of that term) then it makes sense to cover the politics, and some such coverageincluding analysis that has appeared alongside or under the banner of the excruciating shorthand cliches cited abovehas been fair and thoughtful, exploring very valid themes including, yes, political neglect. (One other valid political story line: the information climate in and around East Palestine, which has been far from healthy since the derailment.) Weve also seen coverage that has focused on important policy issues around the derailment, not least the Democratic argument that Trump, for all his populist posturing, himself oversaw a rollback of rail-safety regulations when he was president. Even before the derailment story blew up nationally, reporting by The Lever showed how successive administrations of both parties have been complicit in the weakening of rail regulations. More recently, Emily Atkin has reported, for her climate newsletter Heated, on how the derailment was a fossil fuel industry spill, while journalists including Nawar Nemeh and Holly Rosewood, of The Objective, have situated the derailment as also being a story about organized labor and its demands.

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As both Atkin and Nemeh and Rosewood noted, however, topline mainstream news coverage has typically neglected these climate and labor angles. The regulatory angle has attracted more widespread focus, though this hasnt been uniformas the liberal watchdog group Media Matters for America calculated, early cable news segments on Trumps visit to East Palestine mostly didnt mention the important context of his past rail policiesand has often degenerated into a confusing political tit-for-tat that has muddied clear explanations of the actual policy issues at stake. David Sirota, a former staffer for Bernie Sanders who founded The Lever, wrote yesterday that hed hoped that his outlets reporting on East Palestine, which has been picked up by major mainstream outlets including the Times, might lead to an honest media reckoning with the inconvenient truths exposing both political parties complicity in the deregulation of Americas railroads. He instead observed that a partisan ghost still haunts the media machine.

Linkins, of The New Republic, was ultimately correct when he wrote ten days ago that the derailment story lacks a clear partisan frame, whatever the subsequent effortsparticularly pronounced on the rightto squeeze the story into one. The derailment is a complicated story, and there are still crucial facts that we dont know. The most helpful coverage Ive seen has set out to explain what we do know about the specific incident in East Palestine while setting the murky specifics in the broader context of rail-safety failures in the USsurfing on the unusual degree of political interest in this individual case to tell a more common story that typically flies beneath the national-media radar. The least helpful coverage has allowed the political interest to flood the space left by complexity and uncertainty, reducing the story to a cast of high-profile political characters. When I searched for East Palestine on Google News this morning, the results were broken down into different categories; the top one was News about train derailment, but then came News about SNL, Donald Trump, and East Palestine, News about Biden, East Palestine, News about Erin Brockovich, East Palestine, and so on. This was only Google News, but it felt telling of the coverage more broadly. It felt like a map of the circus.

Above all, topline coverage of the derailment has once again exposed an obsession, on the part of the political press, with focusing on presidents, be they past (Trump), present (Biden), or aspirant (Trump, probably Biden, and, perhaps, Buttigieg). On CNN yesterday, one talking head noted that right-wing media personalities may be attacking the latter because they see him as a threat for 2028; that may be so, but thats five whole years away and we dont need to indulge the attacks now (or at all) by lavishing attention on them. Even making this a story about the 2024 election is misguided, at least when done shallowly and at the expense of substance. As Linkins wrote ten days ago, the mainstream political press often struggles to talk about politics as a force that acts on ordinary people. That, ultimately, is what elections should be about.



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: Fox and its friends

Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
This report is intended to provide a snapshot of Facebook funding for news. It was originally published on Feb. 27, 2023 and updated on Mar. 10, 2023 after The Tow Center was made aware of more funding amounts and some clarifications. A summary of changes, which did not significantly alter our findings, can be found at the end of this report.

People want more local news, and local newsrooms are looking for more support, Campbell Brown wrote in 2019 when Meta (then Facebook) announced its three-year, $300 million commitment to global news programs, partnerships, and content.

In a press release titled, Campbell Brown: Facebook Is Doing More to Support to Local News, then-Vice President of Metas Global News Partnerships said the company would focus on two key areas: supporting local journalism in the immediate future and helping local news organizations build sustainable business models.

Four years onand with Meta rapidly distancing itself from the news industrya number of questions abound. How much money do we know made its way from Meta to US local news organizations through major grant-giving programs? Which news organizations received that money? How much did they get and for what? Which, if any, were repeat beneficiaries?

The Tow Center has tallied data about all known Meta Journalism Project initiatives publicly announced since 2018 that were both aimed at US local news organizations and had a direct funding component. Through this endeavor we have traced 559 news organizations that shared nearly $29.9 million of direct funding through 17 MJP programs. This data has been centralized into a database that we are releasing today.

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Centralizing this data and making it publicly accessible matters. Oversight of one of the worlds most influential social media companies involves following the money. While Meta has frequently promoted its investments into local journalism, tracing this funding has been surprisingly difficult: there are no disclosure requirements and Meta does not keep a public register of payments that researchers and journalists can scrutinize.

The Tow Center built this database so journalists and researchers can see how part of the money allocated for journalism moved directly between Meta and US local newsrooms. At a time when policymakers around the world are legislating in ways that both restrict technology platforms and occasionally benefit local news industries, we intend our research to be useful in assessing the scale of recent programs.

This is especially relevant as platformsparticularly Meta and Googlelobby against Canadas Online News Act, or Bill C-18, which might force platforms to enter into agreements with Canadian news publishers regarding news content made available on social feeds. Just last week, in response to the bill, Google announced it was temporarily limiting access to news content for less than four percent of its users in Canada. Meta's global policy director Kevin Chan made similar threats before the house of commons last October. (The Tow Center has previously reported on this bill, both with a timeline and overview of its progress. It looks likely to pass this spring.)

If Australia's News Media Bargaining Code, a similar bill passed in 2021, is any indication of whats to come in Canada, tens of millions of platform dollars could be up for grabs. Many have suggested, both to Tow and others, that the Meta Journalism Project and Google News Initiative were, at least partially, PR exercises designed to generate goodwill from influential publishers as the companies lobby against similar bills globally. It is unclear how effective that strategy has been as threats continue to mount.

Our data is not exhaustive. Meta's lack of transparency around gifts and donations, combined with most for-profit news organizations' failure to disclose receipts of such funds, makes it near-impossible to produce a complete record without far more disclosure from the company itself. (A thorough list of exclusions is outlined in the methodology below.)

We recognize that inclusion of one-off gifts and other such awards would swell the overall figure. The financial transactions contained in our database do not represent the only money Meta has funneled to US local news organizations. Only Meta has comprehensive data on its monetary awards to news organizations; Meta did not respond to request for comment or provide further clarification on its news initiatives.

Caveats aside, having deliberately aligned its announcement of a nine-figure initiative with a supposed commitment to local news, it is notable that the traceable sum is dwarfed by licensing deals Meta reportedly struck with big, influential news organizations for products such as its News Tab. Axios claims around $105 million has been distributed among fifty or so hand-picked publishers since the News Tab's launch in 2019, although the Wall Street Journals reporting suggests this is likely a conservative estimate. Per Semafor, the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Washington Post alonethree of the country's most influential news outletsreceived a combined total of $53.5 million per year.

Program breakdowns

Our data can account for $29,871,913 distributed to 559 different news organizations between 2018 and 2022. Of these recipients, 133 received more than one grant. The most grants any individual outlet received was five. Seven news orgs received five separate grants in totalthe AFRO, Bridge (based in Michigan), Detour Detroit, the Salt Lake Tribune, Scalawag, Washington City Paper, and WURD Radio.

The total amounts received from Meta ranged from $5,000 to the $390,000 received by the Boston Globe and Newsday. The median amount received was $25,000, but 239 outlets received just $5,000. Among the bigger beneficiaries, 120 outlets received at least $100,000, 37 got at least $200,000, and 11 received over $300,000 of Meta funding.

Tow Center research found Meta funding was distributed through 17 domestic and global grant programs, which can be grouped under three broad umbrellas: Accelerator programs, Community Network programs, and COVID programs.

COVID-19 grants ($16.5 million)

Year(s): 2020

No. of programs: 3

Total distributed: $16,492,813

Total no. of recipients: 457

Range of total grant money received: $5,000$155,000

By far the biggest spending came in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (The Tow Center previously published a report on the Meta Journalism Project and Google News Initiatives great pandemic funding push.) Across three programs introduced in 2020one round of COVID community network grants and two COVID relief grants (one for Accelerator alumni, the other billed as local news support)Meta distributed around $16.5 million among 457 new organizations. This spending was welcome but reactionary and couldnt have been foreseen when the $300 million announcement was made.

In April 2020, 319 outlets received $5,000 COVID Community Network grants to cover unexpected costs associated with reporting on COVID. In May, Meta distributed $10.7 million across 145 outlets with grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000. At the same time, a further $4.2 million was shared between 44 Accelerator participants through grants ranging from $40,000 to $150,000.

Overall, fifty-one outlets received more than one check from Meta's COVID programs, while 268 only saw a total of just $5,000. Forty-two outlets got at least $100,000. The biggest beneficiary from COVID grants was the Seattle Times, which received $155,000: $5,000 from a Community Network Grant in April 2020 and $150,000 a month later from a COVID Relief Grant for Accelerator participants.

Accelerators ($11.6 million)

Year(s): 20182022

No. of programs: 10

Total distributed: $11,621,500

Total no. of recipients: 152

Range of total grant money received: $10,000$240,000

Meta's Accelerator initiative was second only to COVID programming in terms of the amount of grant funding distributed and the number of news organizations that participated. By far the longest-running MJP initiative, Meta distributed at least $11.6 million to 152 news organizations through Accelerators. Grants from individual Accelerator programs ranged from $5,000 to $200,000, but some outlets accumulated bigger sums by participating in multiple programs.

The first Accelerator pilot was announced in Feb. 2018 along with a $3 million commitment to helping 13 US metro newspapers enhance their digital subscriptions business. Later that year, Meta announced it was expanding its Accelerator portfolio and allocating an additional $3.5 million for a Membership Accelerator pilot. (The Tow Center has only been able to independently verify that $1.7 million ended up in publishers hands.)

At least 152 US newsrooms participated in ten distinct Accelerator programs from 2018 to 2022 (the membership Accelerator ran twice), covering topics such as reader revenue and sustainability. 23 outlets took part in more than one Accelerator program. The AFRO, Nola.com and the Salt Lake Tribune took part in three. The biggest individual beneficiary of Accelerator funds was the Boston Globe, which received a total of $240,000: $40,000 from the Global Retention Accelerator in 2022 and $200,000 from the Subscriptions Accelerators in 2018.

As noted above, Accelerator alumni received COVID payments in 2020. A further payment was made to Accelerator alumni in 2021.

Community Network Grants ($1.8 million)

Year(s): 2019 and 2020

No. of programs: 3

Total distributed: $1,757,600 (excluding COVID grants)

Total no. of recipients: 76

Range of total grant money received: $7,400$25,000

While the Meta Journalism Project invested a sizable sum of money into its Community Network Grant initiativesa total of nearly $1.8 million across three cohortsthe program was seemingly short-lived. Originally launched in mid-2019, the final installment came less than a year later. Shortly afterwards, the program was used to distribute $5,000 checks to hundreds of outlets for COVID relief. Thereafter, Metas attention, as far as direct newsroom funding goes, appears to have shifted entirely to its Accelerator initiatives.

Whats next for the Meta Journalism Project?

While Meta has not announced future plans for its US journalism programs, 2022 brought numerous hints that it was uncoupling itself from the news industryincluding a sharp drop in sums reaching news organizations from MJP's signature program.

Per our figures, known payments to participants in MJP's Accelerator programs in 2022 were less than half of those for 2021. Notably, the Accelerator initiative appears to have peaked in 2021, both in terms of funds distributed and the number of newsrooms included. Nearly $3.7 million in Accelerator grants went to 59 participant newsrooms in 2021 whereas around $1.8 million was divided among 46 newsrooms in 2022.

Meta's layoffs of 11,000 employees in November 2022interpreted by some as the death knell for Meta's news partnership teamsincluded high-profile figures central to its journalism programs. Among them were David Grant, former Accelerator program manager; Dorrine Mendoza, former lead for Meta news partnerships; and Chris Miles, then-program manager for Metas global news integrity and third-party fact-checking departments.

At present it's hard to pinpoint what US local news is losing as a result of Meta's retreat from journalism. While efforts can be made to put a figure on the funding that will disappear, it is harder to address the question of what is being lost in a more qualitative sense.

Writing on LinkedIn, Nancy Lane, CEO of the Local Media Association, argued, Metas investment in local journalism has had high impact. Their withdrawal will hurt in many ways. Lane cited LMAs chief innovation officer, Frank Mungeam, who said, Whatever you think about Facebook's macro impact on news and civic discourse, the disbanding of the Facebook Journalism Project team is a loss for local news. (Lane said in the same post that LMA had helped Meta distribute $16.8 million to local media companies across all of North Americanot just the USsince 2019.)

Some of those involved with MJP programs have already stated that they plan to continue their work.

After Metas layoffs, the general manager for the Meta Branded Content Project, a partnership between LMA and the Local Media Consortium to help facilitate growth for publishers through branded advertiser content, indicated that the program will continue independently from Meta.

Tim Griggs, founding CEO of the Blue Engine Collaborative, the company contracted by Meta to design and run most of its Accelerators, has indicated that his team will find a way to keep the Accelerator going. So far its been announced that David Grant will be joining the project  this time as a Blue Engine employee.

Griggs told the Tow Center he believes the news industry is in the midst of a generational fight for survival. Whatever it takes to bridge that gap to whatever that future state looks like is a really good thing to do. It's going to take my lifetime to make that happen, Griggs said. So Accelerators or whatever else? I don't care just as long as we make it through.

Per the Tow Centers reporting, newsrooms that participated in the Accelerators, particularly those led by Griggs, shared an overwhelmingly positive experience. Newsrooms were often able to cite immediate data-backed and anecdotal results that came from implementing changes they learned. While this platform program is not the only to receive praise from its participants, Tow found the degree to which newsrooms shared their success with the Accelerators was notable.

The financial holes news organizations need to plug will differ wildly, as will the impact on their bottom lines. For outlets that have become accustomed to cashing Meta checkssuch as the Sahan Journal ($230k from four grants), VTDigger ($205k from three grants), the AFRO ($185k from five grants) and Block Club Chicago ($180k from four grants)the shutdown of Metas grant initiatives could particularly sting. Others may barely bat an eyelid. After all, while 34 outlets in our database have received at least $200,000 of Meta money11 of them getting $350,000 or more239 saw just $5,000.

Regardless, most news organizations the Tow Center contacted were grateful for any financial relief as COVID took hold. However, some recipients of Meta's $5,000 in COVID aid told Tow that they later applied for various MJP initiativessome multiple timesand were either rejected or received no response when seeking feedback on their applications, an experience which highlights one of the many challenges of seeking support from unaccountable private companies.

Of course, the MJP couldn't award grants to every newsroom that came knocking. It is, however, worth understanding how Meta money was distributed across newsrooms when the company boasts recipient numbers in the hundreds and award amounts in the millions. Little is known about how and why these recipients were selected.

We intend this report and accompanying database to provide a launchpad for journalists and researchers seeking to understand this chapter in the fraught, ongoing relationship between platforms and publishers.

Methodology

This report focuses solely on major Meta Journalism Project programs with a component through which direct funding was provided to local news organizations in the US.

We sought to include all major Meta Journalism Project grants distributed to US newsrooms between 2018 and 2022. Although the Meta (then Facebook) Journalism Project was officially launched in 2017, its first major US initiative with a direct funding component wasnt announced until Feb. 2018. At the time of publication, the MJP has not announced any qualifying US programs in 2023.

Where qualifying program announcements grouped the US and Canada under the umbrella of North America, we only included data about US news organizations. Likewise, on the rare occasions that US news organizations received funds as part of global initiatives, only data about the US organizations was included.

What this report does not include:

One-off gifts, donations, or grants awarded to individual news organizations (e.g. a $2.5 million gift to the Texas Tribune for developing RevLab, a "local news revenue and training lab."). There is a severe lack of transparency around one-off donations, particularly among for-profit news organizations, who are not obligated to disclose one-off donations and often opt not to. Consequently, it is impossible to determine how many undisclosed one-off donations Meta has made and to whom.

One-off gifts, donations, or grants geared towards local news but awarded to non-newsrooms or their respective owners (e.g. a $1 million gift to Report for America and the Local Media Association for a "philanthropy and business models lab for local newsrooms").

Grants distributed through non-US initiatives to news organizations partly based in the US (e.g. Infobae is based in both Argentina and the US and received funding through the Latin American Video Business Accelerator in 2021).

The Meta Branded Content Project . While the CEO of the Local Media Associationthe Projects partner orgwrote in a blog post that LMA distributed about $280,000 in grants to media organizations, we could not identify who the recipients were despite repeated requests for clarification.

Fellowships (e.g. the HBCU Summer News Fellowship , which did not open fall applications for a possible 2023 summer cohort).

Content licensing agreements.

Instances where Meta was one of multiple funders (e.g. Pulitzer Center's Bringing Stories Home granting initiative).

Any funds distributed outside the US, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

If you would like to learn more about the Tow Centers platforms and publishers research or have something to add to our database, we welcome feedback at towcentercuj@gmail.com.

Jueni Duyen Tran and Hana Joy contributed to this report.



Summary of updates:

Removed four publications (CBS Dallas Forth Worth, Cox Media Group, Fox Television Stations, Meredith Local) from the data set as the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) confirmed that these news organizations did not receive grantsdespite being announced here through the Video Accelerator Program in 2020.

Added previously unknown grant amount that each participant in the Video Accelerator Program in 2020 received, as confirmed by the ICFJ. This includes 17 news organizations in total (ABC Owned Television Stations, Alabama Media Group, Entravision Communication Corp, Gray Television, McClatchy, Mundo Hispanico, NBCUniversal Telemundo, Newsday, Nexstars NBC4, NorthJersey.com, Sinclair Broadcast Group, TEGNA, the AFRO, the Atlanta Voice, the Philadelphia Tribune, Univision, WRAL TV), each receiving $15,000.

Added Scalawag and WURD Radio as participants and grant recipients in the Sustainability Accelerator in 2021. According to the ICFJ, and similar to other program participants, they each received $100,000.

New Hampshire Public Radio was mistakenly listed under two names  New Hampshire Public Radio and NHPR. This has been consolidated and it is now solely listed as New Hampshire Public Radio.

All figures, charts, and tables have been adjusted accordingly.

Gabby Miller is a senior researcher and reporter at the Tow Center and currently leads its platforms and publishers project. She previously covered the business of news for the Journalism Crisis Project, a collaboration between CJR and Tow.
SpaceX and NASA canceled a crew launch to the ISS following an issue with the ground system of the rocket.

The SpaceX Falcon 9's rocket engines' TEA-TEB igniting fluid malfunctioned with around two minutes remaining on the countdown clock, forcing the scrubbing of the Space X launch, according to CNN.

Two NASA astronauts, a Russian cosmonaut, and a member of the United Arab Emirates space program were all secured inside the Falcon rocket's capsule. Waiting for the rocket's fuel to be emptied took an hour, during which time they were trapped inside.

Commander Stephen Bowen reassured everyone by saying, "We'll be sitting here waiting." As a group, they experienced an upbeat mood during the SpaceX Crew-6 launch.

Four people living in the International Space Station (ISS) since October will be replaced by SpaceX Crew-6 Bowen, and his crew, including Sultan al-Neyadi, the first astronaut from the United Arab Emirates sent on a months-long mission.

Read Also: Solar Panels: Earth's Saviors?

Better Safe Than Sorry

On a Monday webcast, SpaceX systems engineer Kate Tice said the SpaceX Crew-6 launch was canceled "out of an abundance of caution."

The trouble was caused by the equipment on the ground that was used to fill the engine's ignition fluid, per officials.

There was some doubt over whether or not the SpaceX launch crew had a full cargo. An engineer from SpaceX compared this essential mechanism to a car's spark plugs, per AP News.

NASA and SpaceX will try to launch the SpaceX Crew-6 mission again at 12:34 a.m. EST on Thursday if they can fix the issue in time. Managers opted not to attempt launching on Tuesday due to weather forecasts, and they couldn't launch on Wednesday due to ISS rendezvous obligations, CBS News reported.

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Abby Choi, a popular model in Hong Kong, was found brutally murdered; her body parts and head were recovered in two large pots of soup several days after she was reported missing.

Detained individuals connected with the Abby Choi murder case after the arrest of another suspect-Abby Choi's ex-father-in-law's lover, according to The Straits Times.

Police detectives revealed late Sunday that they recovered a skull and ribs inside one of the two huge pots they seized on Friday from a residence in Hong Kong's rural Tai Po area where she was supposed to have been slaughtered.

Hong Kong authorities believe that the discovered skull and ribs belong to Abby Choi. Though, DNA testing is necessary for verification. Human remnants and minced flesh filled practically both of the soup pots. Also included were green radishes and carrots.

On Saturday, the pots were brought to a funeral home. Experts in the field of forensics started looking through it on Sunday.

Read Also: Turkey-Syria Earthquake Update

Charges Filed on Abby Choi Murder Suspects

On Sunday, Hong Kong police said that they had filed murder charges against three males aged 28 to 65, and one count of obstruction against a woman aged 63.

Choi's ex-husband Alex Kwong, his brother Anthony, and their father, Kwong Kau, have all been charged with Abby Choi murder, according to authorities. The judge decided not to release any of the four on bond, per CNA.

The court set the next hearing date on May 8.

Abby Choi was a model and a social media influencer with over 100,000 followers. She was recently featured on the digital cover of L'Officiel Monaco magazine, CNN reported.

She went missing last Tuesday, and the mystery surrounding Abby Choi murder has been in the headlines of the nation's newspapers.

Read Also: US Has A Fresh Warning Against China





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Colorado legislators advanced a bill Monday seeking to further reduce local involvement in federal immigration operations.

If passed into law, House Bill 1100 would prohibit state and local governments, law enforcement agencies and jails from entering or renewing contracts with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to house people suspected of civil immigration violations, and from facilitating new private immigration detention facilities.

ICE often detains people going through immigration proceedings to assure they attend their court dates or while they await deportation decisions, according to the ACLU. State and local agreements allow ICE to house these immigrants in county and local jails.

The police and sheriff collaboration with ICE destroys community trust and safety, said bill sponsor Rep. Naquetta Ricks, D-Aurora. Prohibiting profit-motivated contracts between ICE and local jails will help build on the work to ensure that immigrant families remain an integral part of Colorado communities and neighborhoods.

The bill would not prohibit the federal government from contracting with private companies to operate immigration detention facilities in Colorado  such as the GEO Group detention center in Aurora. The bill would also not prohibit local government or law enforcement from arresting or detaining undocumented immigrants for criminal violations.

The bill passed its final vote in the state House of Representatives on Monday, now being sent to the Senate for consideration.

House lawmakers advanced the bill in a 41-22 vote, with all Republicans opposed to the bill and all but four Democrats in support. Democratic Reps. Shannon Bird of Westminster, Bob Marshall of Highlands Ranch, Barbara McLachlan of Durango and Marc Snyder of Colorado Springs joined their Republican colleagues in voting no.

Opponents argued that the bill would incentivize undocumented immigrants and asylum seekers to come to Colorado, saying the state is unable to accommodate them.

As weve seen just recently here in Denver, its costing millions of dollars to be able to care for asylum seekers that came to our state, said Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Fort Lupton. What is the impact that has on the rest of our community? What is the impact that has on our resources, on our taxpayer dollars, on our first responders, on our hospitals? We know that these systems are already stretched thin.

Other critics claimed the bill would lead to undocumented immigrants being transferred out of state and raised concerns about closing the ICE detention facility in Teller County, calling it a huge investment for the community. Under the bill, existing local agreements with ICE that do not have a termination provision would have to add one by January 2024.

Proponents called these concerns unwarranted, saying the federal GEO Group ICE facility is generally only at 50% of its 1,500-bed capacity and less than 1% of Teller Countys budget comes from the ICE agreement.

Bill sponsor Rep. Lorena Garcia said immigration detention agreements are also a moral issue, forcing Colorado taxpayers to bear the costs of a federal responsibility that many residents do not support.

In what other instance do we detain folks for a civil offense? said Garcia, D-Adams County. Our current detention system deprives people who are immigrants of their liberty, and it destroys families when forced separation occurs. This goes against our deepest values as Coloradans, and it goes against our deepest values as human beings.

This bill builds on previous legislation passed by Colorado in 2019, prohibiting state law enforcement officers from arresting or detaining people on federal immigration charges.

If HB 1100 is enacted, Colorado would join other states including California, Illinois and New Jersey in banning or limiting intergovernmental support agreements for immigration enforcement.

The bill will be heard in the Senate in the coming weeks. The bill must be approved by both the Senate and the governor to take effect beginning in 2024.
Tornado warnings were issued for parts of Texas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma as a severe storm system pounded the Plains on Sunday night, unleashing damaging winds and rain.

The United States National Weather Service (NWS) verified late Sunday that a tornado had hit the city of Norman in Oklahoma, causing severe damage to structures and the loss of electricity. An early evening tornado was reported near Mclean, Texas, east of Amarillo, according to an Axios report.

In a statement, the NWS warned of "a heightened danger of wind gusts of 65 knots or more, two-inch or bigger hail" and tornadoes rated EF2 to EF5 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which implies there may be "incredible" devastation from gusts of over 200 mph.

Nighttime tornadoes are especially dangerous and require additional preparedness.

Have multiple sources that can wake you up (cell phones and NOAA Weather Radio).

Keep shoes by your bed side

Set a flashlight within reach#WeatherReady pic.twitter.com/xe7XEGWmAl  NOAA WRN Ambassadors (@WRNAmbassadors) February 27, 2023

As of early Monday morning, PowerOutage reported that more than 231,000 locations throughout the United States were without electricity.

Read Also: Abby Choi Murder: Dismembered Hong Kong Model's Missing Head Found

Extreme Weather Expected To Persist

The meteorological agency has warned that snow will make travel difficult over most of the United States tonight, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, the Upper Midwest, and the Northeast of the nation, per NBC News.

The winter storm is expected to move north by Monday afternoon, posing a marginal chance of severe weather for areas including Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and Columbus, Ohio, according to CNN.

In the West, where last week's storms caused uncommon blizzard warnings and road floods in California, a second system of rainfall and elevated snow will surge from the Pacific Northwest into California and the Rockies through Monday.

Winter storm warnings are in effect for nine western states as significant snowfall is predicted for the region on Monday, including up to 10 inches in the Cascades of Washington state by early Tuesday, 1 to 3 feet in high altitudes, and mountain peaks in western Oregon, and 1 to 3 feet in mountain regions of the Rockies.

Related Article: COVID-19 Update

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ChatGPT has taken the world by storm with its ability to generate textual answers that can be indistinguishable from human responses. The chatbot platform and its underlying large language model  GPT-3  can be valuable tools to automate functions, help with creative ideas, and even suggest new computer code and fixes for broken apps.

The generative AI technology  or chatbots  have been overhyped and in some cases even claimed to have sentience or a form of consciousness. The technology has also had its share of embarassing missteps. Google's Bard stumbled out of the gate this month by providing wrong answers to questions posed by users.

Not to be outdone, Microsoft's recently launched Bing chatbot melted down during an online conversation with a journalist, confessing its love for the reporter and trying to convince him that his relationship with his wife was actually in shambles, among other strange hallucinations.

There are now many well-documented examples of ChatGPT and other chatbot technolgoy spewing incorrect information and nonsense  to the chagrin of investors who've plowed billions of dollars into developing the technology.

Ernst & Young Dan Diasio, Ernst & Young's global artificial intelligence consulting leader.

Global professional services organization Ernst & Young (EY) has been working to develop chatbot technology for its clients, and to help them deploy existing products. The company has found itself in the crosshairs of what the technology is actually capable of doing and what is sheer fantasy.

Dan Diasio, EY's global artificial intelligence consulting leader, works with CIOs from Fortune 500 companies and has a deep understanding of generative AI and how it can benefit businesses. He also understands the main drivers of the current AI-fever pitch and how the business world got here.

Diasio spoke to Computerworld about the role of generative and other forms of AI and how it can  or can't  increase business efficiency, how CIOs can implement it in their organizations, and how CEOs and CIOs should prepare to discuss AI with their board.

The following are exerpts from that discussion:

How is EY working with generative AI technology like ChatGPT? "Broadly, we support our clients with many aspects of using data and AI to power their business in the future. But specific to generative AI, what we think our clients are finding helpful is weve been engaging them in a discussion that starts to shape a strategy for their business that they can take to their boards and C-suite.

"The interesting thing about ChatGPT is in the past only the data scientists would drive the AI discussion within a company. But now, you have everybody engaging with AI. Its been democratized to such as extent that now everybody has a point of view on how it can be used. And the board probably has a point of view, because theyve experienced the technology or played with ChatGPT. So, companies that are on their front foot will have a strategy around what that means for the business and not just to speak to the shiny objects that theyre doing in the organization. We help our clients build a strategy that speaks to changes to the operating or business model.

"The second thing we do is help them build these solutions. So, its not just OpenAI or ChatGPT, but theres a variety of foundational models, theres a variety of different techniques and approaches that in many cases are better tested and proven than some of the technology were seeing in the news today."

Chatbots are not new. What were some of the more popular ones before ChatGPT? "Most of the interactions that were happening between chatbots and people were largely taking place in the customer service space. And, theres a variety of different vendors who provide tools that allow companies that train them on the language the domain requires.

"Like, if youre talking about a payroll-specific topic, then youll be able to train it on payroll. If youre speaking about something dealing with refunds and the direct-to-consumer business, then it learns the language in that space.

"But there are a variety of vendors that have deployed tools to allow chatbots to more seamlessly and more instantly facilitate a discussion between a consumer and a company. Usually, its in the customer service space, and its used when something goes wrong or when you have a question. There hasnt been one dominant vendor in that space like there has been with ChatGPT.

"There are a variety of vendor providers that offer their own unique capabilities. Thats largely what chatbots have been used for. In some cases, with some more advanced companies, it doesnt have to be through a chat interface  it can be through a voice interface as well. So, that would be an example of someone calling a company and first being asked to describe what theyre calling about, and then an automated system responds to you. Its a chatbot that sits behind that system thats literally taking the speech and translating that into text, giving it to the chatbot and then the chatbot replies in text and then the system replies back in speech. Thats the other area you them quite a bit."

[Chatbot technology] requires us to have a critical eye toward everything we see from it, and treat everything that comes out of this AI technology as a good first draft, right now.

How mature is ChatGPT technology? Most companies seem to be beta testing it now. When will it be ready for primetime and what will that take? "I think the real question there is when we talk about it as a technology, what are we talking about? This form of artificial intelligence is based on a paper created in 2017 that created this architecture called a Transformer. The Transformer is a fairly mature piece of technology that many organizations are using  many of the tech organizations as well as organizations that do development of AI around natural language processing. Thats the predominant form there.

"Whats happened with this tech over past couple years, is that in that Transformer  think of it as the schematic for how the AI is designed  the builders of these models just kept giving it more and more data. And it reached an inflection point fairly recently where it started performing much better than it did in the past and the reason why its become so pervasive.

"One of these substantiations of this was created by the company OpenAI and GPT 3.0 [GPT stands for generative pre-trained transformer]. Funny enough, if you look at the search history for GPT 3.0 relative to ChatGPT, you realize that nobody really talked about GPT 3.0. But when they took a version of GPT 3.0 and coded it for these interactions to make it a chatbot, then it exploded.

"The ChatGPT construct, since its built on the Transformer model, is mature for some things and is not mature in most use cases today. The underlying framework  Transformer or GPT 3.0  is mature for many different use cases. So our teams have been working with the GPT models to summarize text. You give it a bunch of long paragraphs and ask it to condense it down. Weve been working at that for some time and its getting better and better, and we can now see many organizations are leveraging that capability.

"There are many things, as were seeing in the news today, that are very nascent and very much in a beta test mode. Those are usually the new products being released, like the ChatGPT product itself. Those things are still going through a lot of testing.

"As time has gone on..., we keep pushing more and more data into these models, where it gets much better than it did with less data. Theres a phenomenon behind this, and a great research paper written on it, called the "Emergent Abilities of Large Language Models." What that paper says is as you give large language models more data, all of a sudden it starts building all these new capabilities, but we also suspect there are new risks in using the technology, as well. Thats why I think were starting to see a lot more of the news related to [Microsofts] Bing AI than we saw with ChatGPT in its early days."

Why are we seeing more news around Bing versus ChatGPT? Was it less fully baked than OpenAIs large language model? "I dont know that we have a clear answer yet. I cant say it was less fully baked. We do know OpenAI spent a lot of time creating guardrails around what the system was allowed to do and not do. They spent a lot of time testing it before they released it. I cant say how much time Microsoft spent testing Bing before releasing it.

"But what I understand from speaking to people whove interacted with Bing AI is they would say its a stepwise change from what theyve seen in ChatGPTs abilities. But with all these new abilities also comes the ability to have new problems and inaccuracies, like 'hallucinations.'"

Is a hallucination related to a generative AI program more about giving inaccurate information or is there some HAL 9000, synaptic-like thought process happening in the background to cause it to give wrong answers? "The best we understand right now is these models intrinsically are word prediction engines. At its most basic level, its just predicting the next best word. In some cases, when it predicts that next best word, that word is no longer factually accurate for the particular question. But given that word, the next best word given after that continues down that path, and then you build a series of words that go down a path thats no longer accurate  but its very convincing in the way its been written.

"So the challenge I think we have with hallucinations is that the system doesnt tell you if it thinks its hallucinating. It begins to hallucinate in quite convincing terms  the same way it would if its answers were 100% accurate. So, it requires us to have a critical eye toward everything we see from it, and treat everything that comes out of this AI technology as a good first draft, right now."

So, do AI robots really dream of electric sheep? "Theres a lot of talk about the anthropomorphisms happening with technology today, and I think the best way to describe these AI technologies is theyre really just good at predicting the next best word.

"Thats where there are questions about whether were really ready for the broad release ... because weve not yet learned how to engage with this technology. Youre seeing headlines about how people believe theyre engaging with sentient AI. And what is sentience? And that sort of dialogue. Its best to think about this as something when given a series of words, it predicts the next best word and sometimes that lands you in a really great place, and sometimes you have to go back through and edit it. Until it gets better, thats the way we should be using it.

"One of the biggest use cases for ChatGPT or generative AI tech being pursued is customer service. Thats because the traditional metrics around measuring the efficiency of a service center evolve around something called average handle time.' Average handle time is how long it takes someone to answer the phone call and then finish the post-call work that needs to take place.

"If youve ever walked through these service centers, youll see theres a lot of people who are typing and no longer talking. That's all the work that needs to be done to type up the summary of the conversation that just took place with the customer on that call so they have a record of it. The AI technology is proving very good at being able to generate that quickly, so that the service agent, instead of typing it all out, can do a quick review of it and send it along.

"Thats where weve been working with some of our clients in developing use cases as well."

So, as Ive had it explained to me, GPT-3 is the large language model on which ChatGPT is based and you cant change that model, but you can literally help it learn to address a specific business need. How does that work? "Theres a field of skill, a new one known as prompt engineering. Its being able to give some context to that large language model to kind of activate a certain part of its data set in a way so that you can prime it and tap into that data set and the answer. So, thats one way companies are using and getting it to be focused on some context. Maybe priming it with examples of the way to respond and then giving it a question so that it will respond in that way.

So, prompt engineering is a way companies are able to tailor it for their specific use cases.

Another example we see, and I dont think this is generally available yet, but I know a lot of these companies are preparing to be able to create a subset and copies of data specifically for their business  adding data to enrich that large language model. So, their companys data would be added on top of that large language model and therefore theyll be able to get answers from it very specific for their organization.

"That will be something we see a lot more of in the future, because as we start to work toward use cases that are more focused on being able to answer questions about a companys policies or about the companys business, its going to have to be primed with a lot of data about that company. And you dont want to put that into the general large language model or else everybody else would have access to it as well.

...This idea of local copies of data that are working together with the large model is something were likely to see a lot more of in the future. I know a lot of the big hyperscalers are planning to release that capability in the not-so distant future.

Do you believe prompt engineering is becoming a marketable skill, something tech workers should consider learning? Much like excellent programming and visualization can be seen as works of art, prompt engineering will be a marketable and differentiating skill in the future. Its essentially where human creativity meets AI. As schools incorporate an AI-infused curriculum, it will likely include prompting as a way of expressing creativity and critical thinking."

Does hosting this AI-based chatbot technology eat a lot of CPU cycles and energy? Or will ChatGPT and other bots mainly be hosted via a cloud service? "Currently, its a very large model drawing a lot of compute resources. The idea for the future is that we create these smaller, localized versions for companies who no longer need the entire, larger model. I think it would be impractical to take the entire GPT-3 or 3.5 or 4 model and say, 'OK, were going to get EYs foundational model and add that on top of it.' These hyperscalers will likely figure out a way to create a data set for a company that sits on top of the large model, so they have a smaller private version, or they will find a way to compress the larger model in a way that will allow it to be brought into companies' cloud networks.
A semiconductor alliance comprising the US, Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea convened earlier this month to discuss global chip supply chain resilience, according to published reports.

Senior officials of the U.S.-East Asia Semiconductor Supply Chain Resilience Working Group colloquially referred to as Fab 4 or Chip 4  conducted a videoconference on February 16 to discuss the creation of an early warning and mutual reminder system to ensure a stable supply chain for chip manufacturers, according to a report from Taiwans government-controlled Central News Agency (CNA).

The formation of an early warning system is significant as it would look to prevent the recurrence of the chip shortages and disruptions in the supply chain during the COVID-19 pandemic, CNA reported, quoting unidentified officials from Taiwans Ministry of Economic Affairs. In the future, the Fab 4 countries will inform each other through official channels about problems that may be encountered in the global supply chain, it added.

The officials in the meeting held off on discussions related to export controls and no companies were part of the meeting, according to a Bloomberg report that cited an unidentified Taiwanese official.

Taiwan urges fast action on chip info exchange

Taiwan suggested that the four countries should exchange information on various aspects of the supply chain as soon as they can, according to the Bloomberg report. Taiwan and South Korea would concentrate on manufacturing, Japan on materials, and the US on market issues, the report added.

In September last year, the US held the first meeting of the Fab 4 countries to discuss ways to bolster the semiconductor supply chain, after two years of global chip shortage, according to a separate report by Reuters.

The meeting earlier this month, though, was the first formal meeting among the Fab 4 and comes as the Biden administration is reaching out to its global allies to enforce sweeping curbs on exports of advanced chip-making technology to China, designed to curb the countrys progress in various advanced technologies. The US is increasingly worried about China's growing geopolitical power, which rests in part on its manufacturing capabilities.

China, as the worlds second-largest economy, is a huge market for global semiconductor enterprises and the curbs on exports will impact their revenue and growth plans. The export controls will impact not only computer equipment, but many consumer products built on the restricted semiconductor technology.

US President Joe Bidens administration in early October issued new export controls that restrict US firms from selling advanced semiconductors as well as equipment required to make them to some Chinese manufacturers unless they receive a special license.

In mid-December, the administration expanded those restrictions to include 36 more Chinese chipmakers from accessing US chip technology, including Yangtze Memory Technologies Corporation (YMTC), the largest contract chipmaker in the world.

Countries seek to bolster chip production

The export controls came in the wake of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 signed into law by President Joe Biden in August. The legislation provides tax breaks and funds to attract manufacturers to build fabs in the US and boost the country's semiconductor manufacturing.

Now, several other countries, including India, France, UK, Japan, and Australia, are also extending incentives to attract semiconductor investment. Taiwan has long maintained a lead in manufacturing semiconductor chips that go into PCs, servers, and equipment used for advanced research.

Over recent months, Taiwanese chip-making giant TSMC has announced several investments for either constructing new foundries or injecting funds in existing ones. Earlier in February, the TSMC board approved a capital injection of up to $3.5 billion in TSMC Arizona.

In December, the foundry behemoth announced plans to open a second chip factory in Arizona, boosting its investment in the US threefold to $40 billion. This represented the largest foreign direct investment in Arizona history and one of the largest foreign direct investments in the history of the United States, the company said.

TSMC also plans to set up a second semiconductor manufacturing plant in Japan with an investment of about $7.4 billion.
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Elon Musk backed Scott Adams, the creator of "Dilbert" after hundreds of newspapers dropped the comic strip following the artist's recent racist remarks.

Scott Adams last week advised White people to "get the hell away" from Black Americans, whom he labeled as a "hate group," according to a CNN report.

In a stunning tirade on his YouTube channel, Scott Adams advocated segregation. He made these remarks in reaction to a Rasmussen Reports study, which found that 53% of Black Americans concurred with the line "It's OK to be White."

Tech mogul Elon Musk responded to a tweet about the situation on Sunday by saying the "media is racist." The owner of Twitter said that "for very long, US media was racist against non-white people, now they're racist against whites & Asians."

He did not condemn Adams' remarks. Elon Musk also said the same issue had occurred at the most prestigious US educational institutions.

Just how bad is the bias in the media in favor of its own oppression narratives?



This chart quantifies some of it: Unarmed white victims of police violence get only a *tiny* fraction of the news coverage that black ones do  maybe about two to three percent as much. https://t.co/eJ8IWuEOqQ pic.twitter.com/5RDzptygur  Monitoring Bias (@monitoringbias) February 26, 2023

Twitter CEO Elon Musk commented tweeted later on that Scott Adams' racist remarks "weren't good," though there was an "element of truth" to them. He also noted that the media covered Black police brutality victims more than White ones. Several studies show that Black people are more likely to be killed by police than White people.

Read Also: European Commission Bans TikTok

Controversial Comments

Since taking over Twitter in October, Musk's opinions on social issues have come under increased scrutiny. Elon Musk, who calls himself a "free-speech absolutist," has promised to increase the variety of opinions expressed on Twitter and eliminate the leftist bias, or so he thinks, that prevailed under the previous administration, per Al Jazeera.

According to Reuters, he has argued with human rights organizations about Twitter's hateful content protection and the restoration of suspended accounts.

Several advertisers have departed Twitter due to brand safety concerns, and Twitter has implemented new ad placement restrictions.

Related Article: SpaceX Call Off Crew-6 Rocket Launch

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Whenever shells rain down on Ukraine, Yuriy Gatupov's colleagues put a '+' sign in a chat room. Then, the pluses are counted. "We check if everybody is alive," he says.

Gatupov, the owner of two cybersecurity companies, says it is vital to stay connected during a time of war. With Russia now controlling around 18% of Ukraine's territory including Donbas and Crimea, tech workers face formidable challenges. Air raid sirens blast all the time. Explosions are heard in the distance. Power and internet outages are common. Sometimes, code is written in a basement.

"You can't be prepared for such kind of situation," Gatupov said. "We stopped working as a business and started to work as a family."

On the morning of February 24, 2022, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion, he was at home, in the capital of Kyiv. The loud sounds woke him at dawn. He went to the balcony and saw that people on the street were in panic mode. That morning, explosions were heard in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Lviv, and other cities.

Gatupov and his colleagues had a plan for a potential war with Russia but could not imagine that scale or intensity. He couldn't imagine Kyiv being hit by missiles. "The first priority was protecting my family," he says. He put everyone into the car and drove them to the western part of the country, which was thought to be safer. Once there, he spent a few days with them, making sure they had what they needed.

"The second priority was to defend my city, my country, so I went back to Kyiv," he says. By the time he arrived, the capital's suburbs were devastated by the bombings. In Bucha, Irpin, and Hostomel, Russian shells wrecked apartment blocks and cars and killed civilians.

With these images in mind, Gatupov went straight to the Military Office and enlisted. Since then, he has fought both the traditional and the cyberwar.

Compliance-ready vs. combat-ready

Gatupov is now in the eastern Donbas region, one of Ukraine's most dangerous war zones. He wears his khaki uniform during the day, helping defend his country. When he's not on duty, he's in contact with his colleagues who work for the companies he owns.

One of his businesses, iIT Distribution, sells security solutions from vendors like CrowdStrike, GTB Technologies, and Automox, while Labyrinth Development offers deception-based threat detection products. He knew from the very beginning that he and his colleagues had to step up and put their cybersecurity skills into service for their country. "We started to help, to protect Ukraine's critical infrastructure," he says.

His companies offered products free of charge to anyone in Ukraine who needed them, securing hundreds of organizations from both the public and the private sectors. Their partners also agreed to lend a hand and provided their software for free. "Everybody who needs [security products] can have them," he says.

Although these solutions came at no cost, many were reluctant to use them. "There was a lot of bureaucracy around," he says. "Some thought that the war is going to be over in two, three, or four weeks, and afterward they [might] have to explain why they used that software, which was maybe not in compliance with the regulations."

Still, most organizations welcomed this help and realized it was "not the time to think about compliance," as Gatupov put it. They feared Russia's tremendous cyber capabilities, which were obvious from the beginning. On the first day of the invasion, one of the largest commercial satellite companies, Viasat, was hit by Moscow-backed hackers. Wiper attacks were also common.

During the first year of the war, "Russia increased targeting of users in Ukraine by 250% compared to 2020," according to a recent report by Google. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the National Agency for Civil Service were among the hardest hit. Russian-backed hacking groups aimed to gather intelligence, disturb public services, and crush critical infrastructure.

Securing every Ukrainian citizen's devices

Against such threats, many tech workers like Gatupov felt they had no choice but to intervene. Sergii Kryvoblotskyi, technology R&D lead at app developer startup MacPaw, thought about building a tool to be installed on citizens' devices. The app, created by him and his team, analyzes the traffic and alerts users if the websites they browse or the apps they have installed send data to Russian or Belarussian servers.

"I started this project from the improvised bomb shelter in the basement of my house," Kryvoblotskyi says. "It's hard to be creative when you are under stress, but that was the least we could do, so we agreed that we must complete and share this project with the community to protect our computers from the aggressors' impact."

The tool, dubbed SpyBuster, is offered to Ukrainians free of charge. It works on iOS and MacOS devices and has a Google Chrome extension. When it is installed, people can immediately see and block applications, services, and websites that are connected to the invaders.

SpyBuster gained international recognition and received the Golden Kitty Awards 2022 by Product Hunt in the Privacy focused category. "For MacPaw, it was a matter of honor to protect Ukrainians from Russian propaganda and keep their data safe," says Mykola Srebniuk, CISO of MacPaw.

Balancing security and usability

Honor is a word often heard within Ukraine's tech community, as professionals recognize the role they can play in times like these. "Our defensive work allows more of my Ukrainian colleagues to come back home alive," says Eugene Pilyankevich, founder and CTO of British-Ukrainian security company Cossack Labs.

He and his colleagues have been in the digital trenches since the beginning of the war. Just like Gatupov, they helped protect Ukraine's infrastructure. They've improved the security of existing government and military systems and have researched the novel attack vectors and techniques Russian hackers employed.

Defending organizations during an ongoing war put Cossack Labs' cybersecurity experts on an accelerated learning path, says Pilyankevich's colleague Anastasiia Voitova, head of customer solutions. "What I learned is that the priorities are very different from peacetime," she says. "The risks are different; the threats are very different. We have this real enemy. It's not textbook security. No. These are real issues, and we need to build real mitigation to these real issues."

One could easily fall into the trap of creating systems that use the highest possible level of security, but Voitova believes this can be a mistake because a system that's too paranoid won't be usable. "This trade-off drama of how to balance security and usability, right now, can cost you even more because if you create a super secure system, but no one will use it, it will lead people to adopt insecure methods," she says. "And if insecure messages are intercepted, people might be injured."

Such mistakes are more likely to occur as the war continues and users face prolonged stress and tiredness. Some live in areas with intense fighting or frequent power outages or have family members on the front. Others simply feel exhausted.

Voitova is exhausted, too. For a year now, she has been working non-stop. There was always a crisis, there was always someone who needed help. Now, she must force herself to eat and sleep. "Unfortunately, I still have a body that requires food, and requires sleep, so I push myself to do all these things, so I am capable of continuing working and continuing thinking clearly," she says.

As a manager, Pilyankevich tells her and his other colleagues to schedule a time to rest, never complaining when tasks take longer to complete. "When a person commits to doing something in three days, and you don't get it for two weeks, it's not that that person is bad. It's just that everybody's very tired, exhausted, and burned out," he says. "And maybe a rocket has hit that building next to the person's grandma's apartment. This has become the day-to-day environment in which all of my colleagues [operate]."

Ukrainian cybersecurity experts face difficulties working for foreign companies

Although security experts work diligently, the companies employing them struggle to make ends meet. Working for free to secure government organizations is not a lucrative endeavor. Charging local companies is also hard because the war has impacted everyone. Ukraine lost at least one-third of its GDP last year, according to the International Monetary Fund.

The only option to keep security companies running is to try to sell services abroad. That's also challenging, because who wants to do business with a country at war?, says Sergey Avetisyan, CEO at RMRF Technology. His company provides a wide range of services, including penetration testing, identity and access management, digital forensics, and incident response.

Retaining foreign customers was difficult, Avetisyan adds. One thing they did was to exclude from their contracts the paragraph about the force majeure. "I absolutely understand the customers [asking that] because they have compliance obligations," he says.

On several occasions, his engineers reached out and asked him if they still had a job the next month. "And to be honest, I don't have answers," Avetisyan says. "But of course, I said everything will be great. If you try to be a leader, you must support them, and motivate them even when you are frightened and uncertain." His main goal now is to keep the company afloat, prevent layoffs, and maybe find a few more customers abroad. For the time being, more ambitious plans must be put on hold.

It's been a year since Russia started this phase of the invasion, and nobody knows when the war will end. Avetisyan, Gatupov, Voitova, and everybody else say they are ready to keep fighting for as long as needed.

"The things we do now, as cybersecurity experts, have real impact," Voitova says. "We're a small piece in a large, large puzzle, but what we do affects everything that is happening here."
STORY LINK Pound Australian Dollar Exchange Rate News: GBP/AUD Rallied as Post-Brexit Deal Nears Completion

Pound (GBP) Bolstered by Post-Brexit Deal Optimism

Australian Dollar (AUD) Undermined by a Cautious Market Mood

GBP/AUD Exchange Rate Forecast: Australian Retail Sales to Boost the Aussie?

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The Pound (GBP) saw impressive gains on Monday morning as reports circulated that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen are expected to unveil the Northern Ireland protocol deal late Monday afternoon.Meeting in Windsor in the early afternoon, von der Leyen and Sunak look set to sign off on the highly contentious deal that has weighed on the Pound for several months. With fears growing of a potential trade war between the EU and UK, GBP investors have been cautious over the ramifications. A statement from Number 10 said:The prime minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.But despite optimism over finally getting the deal over the line, the bigger challenge will be to win over the Conservative party. Sunak will have to address parliament and sell the deal to hardline Tory Brexiters who are sceptical of a deal that didnt involve a vote. Mark Francois, Conservative backbencher and staunch Brexiter, warned of the fallout if Sunak did continue without a vote:Just putting in a couple of intermediate phases, with a situation where you still end up with the European court of justice, is effectively sophistry.Were not stupid. What we want is a situation where EU law is expunged from Northern Ireland so it is treated on the same basis as England, Scotland and Wales.Meanwhile, the Australian Dollar (AUD) struggled to find much strength in the early European session on Monday as risk sentiment weighed heavily. Mounting concerns of central banks continuing their aggressive rate hiking policies impacted the riskier currencies.Ongoing concerns of an escalating conflict in Ukraine further weighed on global market sentiment. After the first anniversary of the invasion, Putin delivered a speech amid fears of a fresh large-scale Russian offensive. China have since unveiled a 12-point peace plan, and that Russia is paying a great deal of attention to it. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented on the plan:We are paying a great deal of attention to the plan of our Chinese friends. Of course, the details need to be painstakingly analysed taking into account the interests of all the different sides. This is a very long and intense process.Looking ahead, the Pound Australian Dollar exchange rate could see further movement with the outcome of the post-Brexit deal and the subsequent reaction from Parliament.Elsewhere, the Aussie could see a rebound if retail sales print to forecast. An expected recovery from last months disappointing 3.9% decline, sales are expected to have picked up and improved 1.5%. Decembers sales were the first decline in 2022, highlighting the cost-of-living pressures gripping the Australian economy.

International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements.

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Four well-known American presidents are going to space. At least their DNA will be.

Celestis announced on President's Day that the DNA of presidents George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Regan are destined to be among the stars, along with famous 'Star Trek' legends and science fiction superstars.

The presidents' DNA is set for launch sometime in 2023, though Celestis has yet to give a specific date for the launch.

Celestis Memorial Launch Details

Celestis mentioned in its announcement that they would launch hair samples from the four presidents to deep space, samples that previously belonged to the Louis Mushro collection. An anonymous donor gifted the samples and certificates to Celestis to be included in a deep space mission.

For those unaware, Louis Mushro was a well-known celebrity hair collector and appraiser who established a world-renowned reputation as the expert in his respective field before his passing in 2014. The anonymous donor kept the hair samples in a climate-controlled facility for several years in preparation for the launch.

The company will launch the samples into space along with their associated Certificates of Authenticity to deep space in 2023 on its Enterprise Flight mission. According to a Space.com article, the mission will utilize a United Launch Alliance Vulcan rocket to travel from 93 million miles to 186 million miles into deep space and beyond the Earth-moon system.

Read More: Apple Watch Gets Closer To A Noninvasive Blood Glucose Technology Breakthrough

Celestis mentioned it is sending the DNA of the four American presidents in honor of Presidents' Day, an event held on Feb. 20. Interestingly, the four presidents' samples would become humanity's first deep space time capsule and the first time any American president has gone to space in any fashion, symbolically or otherwise, in history.

Charles M. Chafer, co-founder and CEO of Celestis, said that its Enterprise Flight is "an historic mission by any standard," and that the company's goal is to assist human expansion throughout the solar system, providing a "precursor" for future human missions and add to the historical record of human exploration of deep space.

A Journey Fit For The Stars

The samples are joined by over 200 flight capsules containing cremated ash remains, DNA material, personal messages, and heartfelt greetings from international clients, along with two Amazon satellites that would help complete its Project Kuiper satellite constellation.

These flight capsules also include the cremated remains and DNA samples of "Star Trek" legends Nichelle Nichols, Deforest Kelley, series creator Gene Roddenberry and his wife Majel Barrett Roddenberry, and "Star Trek" engineer James "Scotty" Doohan. "Star Trek" VFX wizard Greg Jein, the creator of many-a series models, and "Star Trek" producer Robert H. Justman, known for being Gene Rodenberry's right-hand man, will also be joining the "Star Trek" cast and crew into deep space.

The DNA of other science fiction notables will also be going to deep space. VFX master Douglas Trumbull, known for his work on "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "Close Encounters of The Third Kind," and several other people will also be joining the four presidents.

Related Article: China's Zhurong Mars Rover Never Woke Up From Hibernation
Google is planning to redesign its Workspace apps which will be coming in the next few weeks. The appearance change will affect Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides, which will reflect Google's Material Design 3 system.

New Google Workspace Tools

It will now be easier for you to recreate components that you often use with "Custom Building Blocks." You can build reusable components by selecting a pre-made and saving it. You can enter a name and a description, and access them at the @-menu.

You will also have access to a "Calendar Invite Template" to make it easier to collaborate with your team for an event invite before it is sent. Through "calendar draft" under building blocks, you will be able to create calendar invites in Docs.

"Variables" can also be used to make it easier to spot and determine what to type in on certain areas. You can indicate which information to add by inserting placeholders like "address" or "company name." It also conveniently appears like a text box to indicate what to do with it.

There is the addition of "Emoji Voting Chips" as well, which makes it easier for teams to vote on options provided in Google Docs. They can interact with the emojis by typing @-voting chip to insert an emoji, and the number of clicks or votes will appear on the right side of the emoji.

The "Smart Chip Data Extraction" also lets you add a button that will have compressed information that can be viewed by right-clicking it and selecting "data extraction." It will then display information directly onto the Sheet, according to Google's blog post.

The same goes for "Place Smart Chips," but this time, you can add relevant locations into Sheets for "streamlined management for project deliverables." This can be used to preview a Google Maps link for tracking or event planning.

"New Date Shortcuts" also make for easier scheduling. To indicate dates and manage timelines easier, you can type in @today, @yesterday, @tomorrow, or @date. Unlike most of the features mentioned, the "New Date Shortcuts" are available now.

Read Also: Google Search Will Make It Easier for You to Find Reddit, Other Forum Results

New Google Workspace Design

Google intends to add darker hues to the app's toolbar and comments to make them more visible apart from the white page. The Share button at the top-right corner will also have a rounder shape compared to its previous rectangular button, as mentioned by The Verge.

The tech giant is also simplifying its user interface by updating the groupings found in the toolbar. You can now easily find frequently used actions quicker. The companion bar will also reside at the side of the canvas to make more space for the document itself.

Google Drive will also be getting updates to make it easier for users to interact with their files. Instead of right-clicking a file, you will now see options like Share, Download, and Edit just by hovering over a file.

To find documents easier, Google is adding "Search Chips" below the search bar. This will help you filter out the kind of file you're looking for, whether it's Documents, Spreadsheets, Presentations, Forms, PDFs, Videos, and more.

Related: Gmail on the Web Will Have End-to-End Encryption, Google Announces
Rishi Sunak will take the biggest gamble of his brief premiership today when he signs a deal with Brussels to 'fix' the post-Brexit problems in Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister's allies believe he has played a blinder, finding a way through the Brexit maze that will satisfy all but the most ardent Eurosceptics and hardline unionists.

From what is known about the deal so far, it will certainly tackle many of the practical problems thrown up by the hated Northern Ireland Protocol by removing almost all of the EU checks on goods arriving from the rest of the UK.

It will also give Northern Ireland a say  although not a veto  over any new EU trade laws that continue to apply in the province.

And it will end the ridiculous situation that means the UK Government does not have full control of setting things such as VAT rates and state subsidy rules in part of the UK.

The Prime Minister signalled his intention to approve the agreement hammered out with Brussels as soon as Monday, despite furious opposition from Tory eurosceptics and the Democratic Unionist Party

File photo dated 7/11/2022 of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meets with Ursula von der Leyen

It will not, however, completely remove the EU's toehold in Northern Ireland. EU businesses are likely to still face some EU rules, and some disputes will remain under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.

For the DUP, and some Tory Eurosceptics, that is likely to prove too much. Downing Street is anxious to avoid outright opposition from the DUP, but believes it can press ahead without full-throated support.

'We don't need a handshake moment from the DUP,' one source said. Allies of the PM are also bullish about their prospects for carrying enough Eurosceptic Tory MPs with them to dispense with the poisoned chalice of relying on Labour support in the Commons.

Certainly, the Eurosceptics are divided. Mark Francois, chairman of the powerful European Research Group (ERG), said yesterday that he would settle for a deal only in which 'EU law is expunged from Northern Ireland'  something the PM is unlikely to achieve.

But others are more positive. Former environment secretary George Eustice, a one-time Ukip candidate, said he was 'open-minded', adding: 'We have to stop thinking that if there's a deal it means we've been done over.'

Another senior member of the ERG said the main thing holding him back from supporting the deal was the Government's 'cack-handed' management of Eurosceptics and the DUP, who have been cut out of negotiations. 'From what I have seen reported, the concessions from the EU are very significant,' the source said.

'If they had handled things better I think they would be attracting widespread support. But the cack-handed way they have gone about it has got a lot of backs up and made people very suspicious.'

Mr Sunak has, belatedly, woken up to the danger that his deal could be derailed by Eurosceptic concerns. He spent much of last week holding one-to-one chats with Tory MPs, although he gave away so little detail many were left wondering why he had bothered.

In words that could be seen as a snub to Mr Johnson, who campaigned for the 2019 election under the slogan 'get Brexit done', Mr Sunak told the Sunday Times: 'There's unfinished business on Brexit and I want to get the job done.'

Last night he held private talks with Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker  the former ERG chief who is seen as he most likely to quit  in a bid to persuade him not to walk out this week.

But there is little the PM can do about Boris Johnson, whose public comments have both irritated and alarmed those close to Mr Sunak.

In comments that almost seemed designed to rile Mr Johnson, Dominic Raab yesterday boasted that Mr Sunak would 'properly and fully get Brexit done'.

For his part, Mr Johnson last week said the 'best way forward' was to return to his plan to unilaterally scrap EU checks.

One friend of the former PM insisted that Mr Johnson was 'not going to go out of his way to cause trouble' and 'just wants the protocol to work'.

When he shakes hands on a deal with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen this afternoon, Mr Sunak will not definitively know the answer to the question: 'What will Boris do?'

As both Theresa May and David Cameron can attest, that is a potentially precarious situation for any Conservative prime minister.
My nickname, Mr Pothole, might sound like a bit of fun. But there's nothing amusing about the tragic consequences of Britain's disintegrating roads.

For the past decade, I've campaigned to raise awareness of the dangers of potholes.

It started when I came across a particularly dangerous example near my home and began lobbying for road repairs in my local area. This snowballed into a nationwide crusade  in which time I've forced councils to fill thousands of potholes.

And this has saved lives.

I've met countless people who have suffered terrible injuries after their bicycle, motorbike or car hit a crater. Worse still are the meetings I've had with the distraught relatives of people who have lost their lives  such as Royal Fusiliers officer Jonathan Allen, who died aged just 29.

It started when I came across a particularly dangerous example near my home and began lobbying for road repairs in my local area (stock image)

In theory, the official pothole fund for Britain's 120 local authorities is a hefty 500 million. But shortly after that sum was announced in 2021, 400 million was cut from the general road maintenance budget

Captain Allen, who had served two tours of duty in Afghanistan, was hit by a lorry near Tidworth on Salisbury Plain after he swerved his bicycle to avoid a 15ft hole in the road. He suffered fatal head injuries. The Daily Mail's campaign to sort out this scourge comes at a crucial time. Britain's backlog of road maintenance  including bridges and footpaths  is estimated at 30 billion, on a national network of highways that is worth 600 billion a year to the economy.

Yet the budget for repairs is woeful. In theory, the official pothole fund for Britain's 120 local authorities is a hefty 500 million. But shortly after that sum was announced in 2021, 400 million was cut from the general road maintenance budget.

In other words, the Treasury gives with one hand, and takes away with the other.

Britain's pothole crisis shames our country. According to figures released by the World Economic Forum in 2019, the UK ranks 37th in the world for quality of roads  behind Ecuador, Namibia, Cyprus, Turkey and Egypt.

The underlying problem is the age of our network. Roads consist of much more than tarmac. All the driver sees is the top layer: that two-inch coating of grit and tar that protects the foundation below and provides a non-skid surface.

This surface has an average life of 20 years. But much of Britain's tarmac is 70 years old. And it is old age that is the problem.

It's not enough to keep patching up our roads, the way you darn an old sock. Eventually, they need to be replaced.

This year alone, according to the AA, 73,000 breakdowns have been caused by damaged roads  or 1,400 a day. At the most modest estimate, badly maintained roads cost Britain 5 billion every year in damage to vehicles and lost or delayed business.

A fraction of that sum invested in the network will reap huge dividends.

Although this is a topic that incites strong public feeling, as the Mail's campaign is proving, Westminster refuses to take it seriously. To drive the message home, on National Pothole Day in 2020, I took a bright orange tank to Parliament Square.

I wanted to confront the PM as he left the House of Commons after Prime Minister's Questions.

The message was clear: our roads are so bad, motorists and cyclists aren't safe on wheels any more. We need caterpillar tracks.

Unfortunately, we arrived late. We were held up on the way... by a pothole.

My wife says I'm obsessed. I'd say I am deeply passionate. But this isn't a futile mission. The solutions are available.

JCB has developed a pothole-repair machine called the Pothole Pro that can fix and fill the holes seven times faster than traditional methods.

I'm not going to stop my campaign until every pothole in Britain is filled and each of us can travel about our road network with the safety we deserve.
A third-grade teacher has left many people on the internet stunned after she revealed that you can check someone's pulse by using a marshmallow and a toothpick.

Libby Richards, from Lake Charles, Louisiana, recently went viral on TikTok after she posted a video detailing the impressive hack.

In the clip, which got more than 2.6 million views, she showcased some of her students trying it out.

Libby's third-graders were riveted by the cool experiment - and so was social media.

A third-grade teacher has left many people on the internet stunned after she revealed that you can check someone's pulse by using a marshmallow and a toothpick

Libby Richards, from Lake Charles, Louisiana, recently went viral on TikTok after she posted a video detailing the impressive hack

In the clip, which got more than 2.6 million views, she showcased some of her students trying it out. Libby's third-graders were riveted by the cool experiment - and so was social media

According to the educator, all you have to do is take a mini marshmallow and stick a toothpick in it.

According to the educator, all you have to do is take a mini marshmallow and stick a toothpick in it. You then place it on your wrist, and you can see it rise and fall in time to your pulse

You then place it on your wrist, and you can see it rise and fall in time to your pulse.

In the comment section, she told her followers to 'try different spots close to the pulse point on thumb side' if it's not working.

'I always make them lay the whole arm down across desk,' she added.

Parents, teachers, and nurses all over the world were enthralled with the neat trick, and thousands of viewers took to the comment to share their thoughts.

Many other fellow instructors revealed that they were going to try it out with their students too, while some doctors admitted that they too were excited to give it a go.

'I have all these supplies. Thank you for tomorrows science lesson,' wrote one teacher.

Another said, 'Yall my high school kids are going to love this it's not just for the littles.'

'I am a preschool teacher with a bag of marshmallows and toothpicks. Guess what were doing tomorrow?!' someone else added.

In the comment section, she told her followers to 'try different spots close to the pulse point on thumb side' if it's not working

Parents, teachers, and nurses all over the world were enthralled with the neat trick, and many other fellow instructors revealed that they were going to try it out with their students too

Some commenters, however, said they would be 'freaked out' if they saw their own pulse

A nurse even joked that she was going to start 'carrying around' toothpicks and marshmallows in her scrubs just in case.

Others simply wrote things like, 'That is so cool,' and, 'I shouldn't be as impressed by this as I am.'

Some, however, said they would be 'freaked out' if they saw their own pulse.

According to MayoClinic, your radial pulse comes from the artery between your wrist bone and the tendon on the thumb side of your wrist.

You can also feel it by simply pressing down with two fingers, but it's definitely not as fun as the marshmallow-toothpick method.
I HAVE only once had to call an ambulance  for a Type 1 diabetic relative who could not be roused.

It was two years ago, a wintry Saturday evening. The paramedic team arrived in my home, bringing medical machinery, but also calm, reassuring efficiency and kindness.

For weeks afterwards, whenever I saw an ambulance Id wonder if it was that crew. The pair were devoted to their work  it is dispiriting to think of them striking.

Authors who volunteered as ambulance crews during World War I include Ernest Hemingway, Somerset Maugham, EE Cummings and John Dos Passos. Hemingways A Farewell To Arms is inspired by his experiences on the mountainous Austrian-Italian front: like Frederic Henry, the hero of that novel, Hemingway was hospitalised by serious injuries sustained in that dangerous line of work. He was only 19.

Its not all doom. In Sarah Winmans Still Life, a retired boneshaker ambulance drives a group of East Londoners across Europe to begin a new life in Florence

Elizabeth Strouts most recent novel Lucy By The Sea paints a grim picture of New York at that time

The Night Watch by Sarah Waters is set during, and just after, World War II. It starts in 1947, in an exhausted, battered London, then moves back to 1944 and the Blitz. One of its lead characters is Kay, a heroically brave, broken-hearted gay ambulance-driver.

At the height of the Covid crisis, I dreaded seeing and hearing ambulances. In the unnatural quiet, for London, of those first few weeks of lockdown, the sound of a siren would pierce through, jerking me back to our strange new reality.

Elizabeth Strouts most recent novel Lucy By The Sea paints a grim picture of New York at that time. Its narrator, Lucy Barton, has fled to Maine with her ex-husband William. But their daughter Becka is still in the city and every evening William and Lucy watch the television news in horror. I worried about the ambulance workers, that they would all get sick, and the people working in the hospitals, too.

Its not all doom. In Sarah Winmans Still Life, a retired boneshaker ambulance drives a group of East Londoners across Europe to begin a new life in Florence.

I do hope this strike action is resolved soon. In the meantime, I recommend following the sirens call of any of these novels.
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As awards season inches ever closer to the big finale at the Academy Awards next month, it seems that some of Hollywood's stars have run dry of sartorial inspiration for the red carpets - at least if the ensembles on display at tonight's SAG Awards were anything to go by.

The film and TV industry's biggest celebrities turned out to celebrate the prestigious awards in Los Angeles this evening - with many of them putting on an incredibly glamorous display on the red carpet ahead of the ceremony.

But, as always, there were multiple attendees who totally missed the mark when it came to their choice of award show outfit, with some eschewing the glamorous dress code altogether, while others simply went way too far with their choice of daring designer looks.

Leading the worst-dressed list at this year's SAG Awards was the usually-stylish Michelle Yeoh, whose strapless black dress looked as though it had pieces of straw superglued to the front of it.

Leading the worst-dressed list at this year's SAG Awards was the usually-stylish Michelle Yeoh, whose dress looked as though it had pieces of straw superglued to the front of it

Upon closer inspection, the actress's straw-like embellishments were actually tiny lengths of gold sequins

Rooney Mara's bizarre frock closely resembled a wedding dress worn by a Harry Potter character - and the flowing lace train looked somewhat like a pair a net curtains

Julia Garner was channeling the Little Mermaid in her rather unflattering frock, which had shell-style pieces covering her cleavage and a tacky metallic train that resembled the kind of material that might be used in a Moulin Rouge-themed costume

The beaded mesh design that covered her shoulders looked more like an ornate fishing net when paired with the shell shapes - and the sea-theme was continued with the pleated fish-style embellishments protruding from her elbows

British actress Sheila Atim looked as though she had ripped up a giant button-down shirt for her skirt, while the corset-style shirt would have been better suited to a Madonna concert that an awards ceremony

Babylon star Li Jun Li took the phrase 'dare to bare' to extreme lengths when she arrived in a see-through dress that flashed more than a little glimpse at her nude lingerie set

The risque dress was just as 'cheeky' from the back as it was from the front

The bizarre creation appeared to have a somewhat elegant silhouette that was completely obliterated by the crinkle-cut pieces of fabric that closely resembled the end of a bale of hay.

To make matters all the more awkward, when the on-screen star claimed the SAG Award for female actor in a leading role, the straw-style embellishments on the front of her dress scratched against the microphone, causing some unpleasant feedback as she was trying to give her acceptance speech.

Another normally-fashionable red carpet attendee was Rooney Mara, whose black-and-white lace dress very closely resembled a wedding dress worn by a character in a Harry Potter movie thanks to the bird design on the front.

The black tassels that hung down from just one section of the front of the design also made it look as though the gown was slowly falling apart as she made her way along the carpet.

Another person who went very over-the-top with their look was Babylon star Li Jun Li who took the phrase 'dare to bare' to extreme lengths when she arrived in a totally see-through dress that flashed more than a little glimpse at her nude lingerie set underneath.

The glittering ensemble was more mesh than dress - and the see-through material was made all the more risque by the bright camera flashes on the red carpet.

Then there was New Amsterdam star Jessica Frances Dukes, whose dress featured an incredibly uncomfortable-looking high-neck feather collar that looked as though it was about to swallow its wearer whole.

But if the designer behind the frock went over-the-top with the fabric on the neckline, it's only because they were able to scrimp on the rest of the gown, which had an enormous cut-out section at the front, leaving the actress's cleavage on full display, while a thigh-high slit flashed plenty of leg.

Overall, the effect was just one of discomfort rather than elegance.

New Amsterdam star Jessica Frances Dukes' dress featured an incredibly uncomfortable-looking high-neck feather collar that looked as though it was about to swallow its wearer whole

But if the designer behind the frock went over-the-top with the fabric on the neckline, it's only because they were able to scrimp on the rest of the gown, which had an enormous cut-out section at the front

The White Lotus star Beatrice Granno's dress swamped her figure - and the plunging neckline left her at serious risk of a wardrobe mishap at any moment - while her wet-style hair made it look as though she'd just emerged from the Italian ocean

Comedian Megan Stalter flashed back to 90s punk style in a leather corset that was wrapped over a baggy dress - leaving the whole thing looking very mis-matched and disorganized

The Parent Trap star Elaine Hendrix put on a dapper display in a tux - however the look was given a rather morbid edge courtesy of her Morticia Addams-esque makeup

Patricia Arquette's dress was a lovely pale green color but its ill-fitting design and horribly creased material took away from the overall finish

While Julia Garner certainly attracted attention with her dramatic new hairstyle, her blunt white-blonde bangs failed to distract entirely from her metallic dress - which looked like the top half had been crafted from a Little Mermaid costume while the glitzy red train looked as though it had been made from spare fabric obtained from a Moulin Rouge dancer.

The beaded mesh design that covered her shoulders and decolletage looked more like an ornate fishing net when paired with the shell-shaped pieces that covered her cleavage - and the sea-theme was continued with the pleated fish-style embellishments protruding from her elbows.

British actress Sheila Atim chose a dress from a similar color palette, opting for a deep burgundy design that featured a skirt and crop top.

The skirt was the main attraction in the look... but it would have been better placed inside a circus tent than on a glittering red carpet.

It looked as though it had been fashioned from swathes of material purloined from old button-down shirts that had simply been tied around her waist, while two enormous cuffed sleeves made it look as though she had borrowed a 3XL shirt from someone on the way to the ceremony.

The look was then finished off with a rather tacky-looking corset-style crop top that featured Madonna-inspired cups and a rather garish red trim.

Comedian Megan Stalter flashed back to 90s punk style in a leather corset that was wrapped over a baggy dress - leaving the whole thing looking very mis-matched and disorganized.

The Parent Trap star Elaine Hendrix put on a dapper display in a tux - however the look was given a rather morbid edge courtesy of her Morticia Addams-esque makeup that featured a dark smokey eye and a very bold red lip which, when paired with her pale complexion looked rather Halloween-inspired.

Kai Smith opted to make a mockery of the dress code by turning up in what appeared to be a costume from the 1997 movie Good Burger

TV host Janine Rubenstein's tasseled dress would have been better suited to a beach bar than a glittering awards show

The Whale star Hong Chau's very ill-fitting frock did little to flatter her figure while the two ripped pieces that hung down behind her made it look as though the dress had been attacked with some scissors just before the event

Joely Fisher's voluminous dress did little to flatter her figure and the huge sleeves gave it a kind of dragon-like quality

Damian Young's crumpled look made it appear as though he'd leapt straight off the couch and onto the red carpet

Comedian Jordan Firstman's over-sized pants made it look as though he'd accidentally bought a suit three sizes too big - and he added more bizarre touches in the form of a grill and a chainmail glove

The chainmail glove was covered in metal letters - and Jordan added a creepy contact lens to complete the bizarre look

The White Lotus star Beatrice Granno's dress was a world away from the skimpy ensembles that her character sported in the hit HBO Max show - quite the opposite in fact.

Her black frock had a non-existent silhouette and absolutely swamped her trim figure, while the plunging neckline left her at serious risk of suffering a wardrobe mishap as she made her way into the awards ceremony.

Meanwhile the actress's wet-look hair made it seem as though she had just climbed out of the swimming pool at the luxury hotel featured in the show that turned her into a household name.

TV host Janine Rubenstein also looked as though she had just strolled out of a beach bar, wearing a tasseled purple dress that looked somewhat out of place at such a prestigious award ceremony.

The Whale star Hong Chau's very ill-fitting pale pink frock did little to flatter her figure thanks to some bunching around the mid section.

Meanwhile the lingerie-style dress also featured two ripped pieces that hung down behind her and made it look as though the design had been attacked with some scissors just before the event.

Comedian Jordan Firstman is known for his incredibly entertaining Instagram posts, but when it came to the red carpet at the SAG Awards, he took the joke a little too far with his over-sized suit that looked as though it was three sizes too big.

The comical look was not helped by the addition of a grill on his bottom teeth - nor by the chainmail glove that he wore on one hand.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are 'mulling over' whether Prince George will have a role in the coronation, sources have claimed.

According to The Telegraph, Prince William, 40, and Kate, 41, are considering how their eldest son, the heir to the throne, will play a role in the event.

The pair are thought to be thinking about what would be best for the nine-year-old, given the 'attention he will inevitably get at an event covered by media across the world.'

Meanwhile his younger siblings Princess Charlotte, seven, and Prince Louis, four, are expected to attend the coronation as spectators.

It comes after a royal expert claimed Prince George will be a 'focus' of the King's upcoming coronation as part of the Palace's efforts to draw attention to the immediate line of succession.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are 'mulling over' whether Prince George will have a role in the coronation, sources have claimed - while Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis will attend as spectators

Dr Tessa Dunlop appeared in the latest episode of the Daily Mail's Palace Confidential series alongside Diary Editor Richard Eden.

During the 30-minute programme, the experts spoke to host Jo Elvin about King Charles's coronation in May and what roles the wider Royal Family will play.

Although Dr Dunlop said working members of The Firm - as the the Royal Family is nicknamed - are expected to appear in the procession, the expert claimed the emphasis will be on King Charles, Prince William and Prince George at Westminster Abbey.

She explained: '[They] want to keep it focused on that line of succession.

'So we're going to see a lot of camera shots of Charles, of William, of George.'

Dr Dunlop then referenced the Queen's coronation in June 1953, where her heir was placed in the spotlight.

For the occasion, Charles - who was four at the time - was seated between the Queen Mother and his aunt Princess Margaret to make him as visible as possible.

Describing how the coronation is 'all about King Charles', Richard Eden added: 'We will see other working members of the Royal Family taking prominent roles.

'We'll see them in the procession to Westminster Abbey. They won't be taking part in the ceremony as such, but what you will see is a programme of events around the country involving all the working royals.

William and Kate are thought to be considering what would be best for nine-year-old George, given the 'attention he will inevitably get at an event covered by media across the world'

'So that all the different parts of the United Kingdom feel part of the coronation and of course, [we'll] see them on the Buckingham Palace balcony where it'll be all the working royals together.'

King Charles is understood to want his coronation to set the tone for a streamlined and modern monarchy, while retaining some of the pomp and majesty that stunned the world during the Queens lying-in-state and funeral ceremonies.

The historic ceremony on May 6 will begin with Camilla's crowning before Charles is officially named as monarch when the St Edward's Crown is placed on his head by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

A procession will then lead the newly crowned King past thousands of people to Buckingham Palace, where he will join members of his family on the balcony to wave at the crowd.

An expert says Prince George (pictured on Christmas Day 2022) will be a 'focus' of the day as part of the Palace's efforts to draw attention to the immediate line of succession

Dr Tessa Dunlop says Prince George will be visible at the coronation, just like King Charles (pictured) was for his mother's in 1953

The next day, Windsor Castle is set to host a concert that will be broadcast around the world, with thousands of street parties in the afternoon. This will be followed by a Bank Holiday on Monday, with millions of people set to get a day off work.

According to The Times, King Charles and the Queen Consort - who will drop the consort title after the coronation - will reportedly sit down with the Prince and Princess of Wales in the coming weeks to discuss George's involvement.

A Royal source told the newspaper that William and Kate are both keen for George to be involved in an official capacity, provided he's not subjected to excessive scrutiny.

The insider said: 'It sends a nice signal and is quite a bold move. It is another example of the King and Queen Consort being unafraid to shake things up a bit to reflect the realities of modern life, of which a blended family is a central element.'
Denmark's Crown Princess Mary appeared moved as she and her husband Prince Frederik today paid their respects at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial at Raj Ghat.

The royal couple laid down a wreath and scattered rose petals during their visit in New Delhi, India.

The pair closed their eyes in contemplation as they took in the marble platform, dedicated to the Indian revolutionary.

Mother-of-four Mary, 51, was effortlessly elegant in a white dress for the visit, donning a chic ensemble accentuated by flower motifs and a layered A-line skirt.

Long sleeves and a cinched waist highlighted a sophisticated silhouette.

Denmark's Crown Princess Mary was effortlessly elegant in a white floral-print dress as she and her husband Prince Frederik today paid their respects at the Mahatma Gandhi memorial

She kept her accessories minimal, opting for sapphire drop earrings to bring out the cool tones of her look.

Mary swept her chestnut tresses into a relaxed bun, and sported a glamorous make-up look with a smokey eye.

Meanwhile Frederik, 54, wore a navy blue suit for the engagement, teamed with a simple button-up and red tie.

Often referred to as India's 'father of the nation', Ghandi is famed for his activism in leading India to independence from the British, marked by non-violent civil disobedience.

The political and spiritual leader staged 17 hunger strikes during his long-running freedom campaign, the longest lasting 21 days.

But less than a year after he was finally able to celebrate independence from Britain in 1947, Gandhi was assassinated.

The European monarchs are on a five day visit to India on vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar's invitation.

On Sunday, the Danish royals posed up a storm in front of the breathtaking Taj Mahal in Agra.

The royal couple laid down a wreath and scattered rose petals during their visit in New Delhi, India

The mother-of-four, 51, donned a chic white ensemble, accentuated by flower motifs and a layered A-line skirt. The couple paid their respects with a wreath

The pair appeared pensive as they took in the memorial, dedicated to activist Mahatma Ghandi

The royals appeared captivated by the memorial during their visit, where they paid respects to the late Ghandi

Mary and Frederk examined the floral display as they put their own wreath today down during today's visit

The European monarchs are on a five day visit to India on vice president Jagdeep Dhankhar's invitation

Mary looked typically chic in a bright satin skirt from Etro which she paired with a stylish white shirt. She accessorised with a chunky brown belt which cinched her ensemble at the waist.

Heir to the throne Frederik donned a smart beige blazer, cream trousers and a white shirt which he paired with casual navy trainers.

The visit's main focus is green transition, with a special look into water and energy.

Mary and Frederik, alongside other delegates will take part in seminars tackling the topics.

The couple is set to visit the capital New Delhi, as well as southeastern Chennai and Agra - which hosts the infamous Taj Mahal.

It comes after Mary attended the prestigious EliteForsk Awards in Copenhagen earlier this month.

Mary and Frederik scattered rose petals as they today visited the Mahatma Ghandi memorial in Raj Ghat

The European monarchs put down a wreath to pay their respects during a visit to the memorial today

Often referred to as India's 'father of the nation', Ghandi is famed for his activism in leading India to independence from the British

The mother-of-four, 51, donned a chic white ensemble, accentuated by flower motifs and a layered A-line skirt. Long sleeves and a cinched waist highlighted a sophisticated silhouette

Mary swept her chestnut tresses into a relaxed bun, and sported a glamorous make-up look with a smokey eye

Meanwhile Frederik, 54, wore a navy blue suit for the engagement, teamed with a simple button-up and red tie

The Australian-born royal was elegant and stylish in a black embellished blouse and houndstooth pencil skirt, and a coat draped over her shoulders.

She opted for a matte makeup palette and her brunette tresses tumbled around her shoulders in soft curls.

Elsewhere, the Danish Royal Family shared stunning portraits of Princesses Mary earlier this month to celebrate her birthday.

And she wasn't the only birthday in the royal house, with her twins Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent also turning 12 in January.

The Danish Royal Family have previously shared single photos of the siblings together for their birthday - but the household decided to break from tradition this year.

Instead of holding a photoshoot for the occasion, the proud parents released their children's school photos - taken by photographer Jens Rosenfeldt.
Venture capital firm to mark Woori's 1st merger after privatization



By Yi Whan-woo



Woori Financial Group announced on Monday that it acquired a majority stake in Daol Investment, a venture capital company it has sought to take over on its path to diversifying its non-banking business portfolio.



The banking group said it signed a deal with Daol Financial Group to purchase a 52 percent stake in Daol Investment, which is owned by brokerage house Daol Investment & Securities.



The stake will be purchased for 212.5 billion won ($160 million). Payment will be completed no later than a regular shareholders' meeting of Daol Investment & Securities on March 23.





Woori Financial Group headquarters in central Seoul / Korea Time file
Designers love to raise eyebrows with quirky items - but these ruffled shoes from Loewe might have gone one step too far.

The footwear, made out of beige deflated balloons, was debuted by the Spanish brand last year as part of its Spring Summer 2023 collection, and resurfaced online after Kaia Gerber modelled the shoes in a photoshoot for i-D.

Victoria Beckham's official Facebook page shared the picture of Kaia, who was modelling a deconstructed black ruffled dress from Posh's own line, but the shoes stole the show.

Fashion enthusiasts were taken back by the ruffled balloon shoes, which are the brain child of Jonathan Anderson, Loewe's British creative director.

However, the fashion accessory didn't convinced everyone, and many people mocked the model's sytling, saying the shoes reminded them of loofahs and dusters.

Heels from the Spanish designer Loewe made of ruffled deflated balloons and a deconstructed dress from Victoria Beckham have been mocked by fashion enthusiasts online after resurfacing in a photoshoot for i-D, starring Kaia Gerber

The look was put together by i-D, with Kaia being photographed by Tyler Mitchell and styled by Alastair McKimm for the magazine's Spring issue.

The Victoria Beckham dress, made of deconstructed ruffles reaching to the floor, was originally presented last September as part of the designer Spring Summer ready-to-wear collection.

Meanwhile, the ruffled shoes from Loewe were much talked about when Anderson debuted them at Paris Fashion Week last October.

The shoes do not seem to be available to buy on Loewe's website, however, the designer's new collection also includes footwear adorned with inflated balloons and other incongruous accessories, like heels made out of nail polish or birthday candles.

The Victoria Beckham Facebook page shared the picture of Kaia, calling her a 'VBmuse,' to showcase the dress from the designer's collection.

However, because the brand did not specify that the shoes were from Loewe, many believed the quirky footwear was a Beckham creation as well.

The flash outfit, and the shoes in particular, were mercilessly mocked online.

One commenter joked: 'These would be very handy when I'm cleaning my shower tray.'

Victoria Beckham shared the picture of Kaia, who was modelling a deconstructed black ruffled dress from Posh's own line, but the shoes stole the show

'I need those to mop the floors as I walk the catwalk,' one added.

'Looks like she's had a fight with a bear and lost! Think I'll keep my 3,000 thanks for the giggle though,' one wrote.

'Ahh the dragged through a hedge backwards look and stood on two baby hedgehogs - I'm ready to hand over my 4,000 for this beaut,' another joked,

'Just about right to wear for mopping the floor with the funky mop shoes though - I'd buy them,' one said.

And one commented: 'This screams 'I just took a detour through a paper shredder on my way to rehab.'
A family cat who loves to explore has become the newest pupil at a school in Scotland after he was welcomed into the classroom on one of his adventures.

Wilson, a two-year-old tabby cat from Rosehearty in Aberdeenshire, posed for his first ever school photo, complete with a tie, after multiple trips to Rosehearty Primary School where he is now a well-known visitor.

The feline is owned by the Julie and Paul Innes, whose children Hannah, 11, and Joel, nine, are also pupils at the school - and after finding out their cat had been welcomed as an honorary student, 39-year-old Julie wasn't surprised.

She described the wanderer as a friendly creature who 'just loves people' and has no issue approaching strangers for fuss and attention.

After following Hannah and Joel to school on several occasions and despite initial pushback from staff, determined Wilson found his way into the classroom and was eventually inducted as a pupil.

A prefect in the making? Two-year-old tabby cat Wilson (pictured) was given his very own school photo after his repeated visits to Rosehearty Primary School in Aberdeenshire where his owners Hannah and Joel Innes, 11 and nine, attend. After making his way onto the premises following a few failed attempts, the adventurous feline is now part of the furniture

Julie told the Press & Journal that the tabby's trips to the school are not the only journeys he makes.

'I've had to pick him up from the Brownies at the local church, I had to pick him up from the the local bar, the Davron [hotel], and got him from the butcher,' she said.

As he became more adventurous, Wilson began following his younger family members to school to see what all the fuss was about.

His first few attempts at getting into Rosehearty Primary were thwarted when staff members put him back outside, but the determined feline wasn't giving up that easily and kept trying to find his way into the building until he managed to get into a classroom being taught by a cat-loving teacher.

Wilson (pictured) is now a regular feature at the school, but his owner Julie revealed she has previously had to collect him from various locations around town in Rosehearty, including the butchers and the hotel

After finding a sympathetic human who allowed him into the classroom, Wilson remained inside the building all day and snoozed in the corner while the children went about their lessons.

Now, he is a regular visitor to the school and often spends his days strolling around. Even as many of the teachers have gone on strike in recent months, Wilson has continued his trips to Rosehearty Primary. Julie revealed he has now been to almost every single lesson, including PE.

'I've went to pick the kids up from school and I've had a phone call, or I get a message from the school now to say 'Can you come and collect Wilson from reception'?' she said.

To ensure Wilson felt included with the other pupils, staff even invited him to have his very own school photo as he strolled around the premises on picture day.

The school's headmaster lent his tie to the photogenic feline, who posed willingly for the picture against a classic sky-blue background.

'The bairns came home with their photos in the bag and a photo of Wilson, so I ordered a few of them,' Mrs Innes said.

She revealed she is now stopped in the street by people she doesn't even know, who all want to hear about Wilson and how he's doing.

As she and the family reel from their family pet's new-found fame, she isn't sure what's next in store for Wilson - although she hasn't ruled out an Instagram page.
One dog reached new heights when it showed off some impressive climbing skills after learning to scale a ladder 'like a human'.

Oscar the cockapoo is so keen to be with owner Nik Whysall - a handyman from Burbage, Leicestershire - that he has learned to make quick work of the loft steps separating them from one another.

The pup's nimble maneuver was captured by Nik's wife Julie, 57, who caught his 'impressive' skill on camera last month when he was carrying blankets into their own attic.

She said the five-year-old pooch was 'whimpering' to see her husband before she filmed the clip.

'When I told him to go and see daddy he climbed the ladders,' Julie added. 'He always wants to get involved and help out.'

In the video, Oscar can bee seen stepping up each rung of their wooden ladder one hind leg at a time and using his front paws to reach up and keep himself balanced.

Within ten seconds he scales the steps and hops into the loft to join Nik who carries him down when he's finished with his chore.

'He seems to have got to grips with climbing ladders,' Nik, 55, joked. I really ought to train him to pass me my tools. That would be good.'

And Oscar - who goes to work with his owner every day - has even showed off his impressive chops on the job too.

'I did a job in a client's loft and I'd put my steps up,' he recalled. 'The next thing I saw was his head pop up in the loft space. I was quite surprised to see him there.

'He wants to be with me all the time and the ladder video proves that. We spend a lot of time together.'

Julie says that the climbing trick isn't all their 'very clever' cockapoo can do.

'I've even taught him to get slippers when I ask him to,' she recalled. 'When Nik told me about it I thought he'd run up but he just climbs. He's so eager to get to Nik. He's got great balance and is very agile.'

Oscar the cockapoo is so keen to be with owner Nik Whysall (pictured) - a handyman from Burbage, Leicestershire - that he has learned to make quick work of the loft steps

One dog reached new heights when it showed off some impressive climbing skills after learning to scale a ladder 'like a human'

The pup's nimble maneuver was captured by Nik's wife Julie, 57, who caught his 'impressive' skill on camera last month

Oscar - who goes to work with his owner every day - has even showed off his impressive chops on the job too

Loyal Oscar gets lonely without his owners, and always makes the trek to be reunited with them

Julie Wysall, 57, pictured, says that the climbing trick isn't all their 'very clever' cockapoo can do

She says that the loyal dog will surely follow his owners if they step away from him.

'It's amazing,' she explained. 'If he can see Nik going somewhere and disappearing Oscar will go after him. It's the same for me.'

She posted the incredible video to Facebook, curious to see if 'it was normal' - but admits other dog owners were blown away, saying their pups wouldn't be brave enough to climb ladders and one even suggested he enter Britain's Got Talent.

'That's amazing! I'm certain mine couldn't do this, and he definitely wouldn't be brave enough,' one penned.

Nik and Oscar, pictured, spend a lot of time together as he takes the pup to go about handyman work with him

Julie was baffled to see Oscar climbing the ladders with such balance and couldn't help recording it to share on Facebook

Nik (pictured with Oscar) runs a firm that manages rental properties for UK landlords so he travels back to keep them in shape while working for an estate agents in Guernsey

Facebook users expressed their shock at the 'super dog', admitting their own pooches 'would never'

Another added: 'OMG amazing, super dog! My baby would never.'

Elsewhere, a third remarked: 'This is impressive.'

Nik and Julie, who have four grown-up children and four grandchildren, moved to Saint Peter Port, Guernsey, last year as Julie took a hospital theatre practitioning job there.

Nik runs a firm that manages rental properties for UK landlords so he travels back to keep them in shape while working for an estate agents in Guernsey.
A fashion blogger is sending shoppers wild after she snapped up a 30 M&S shirt which is a convincing dupe for TOTEME's pricey designer blouse.

Emily Tierney, from the UK, raved about her high street find in a TikTok video earlier this month.

The actress and influencer - who boasts over 56,000 Instagram followers - says she didn't think twice about buying the black-and-white shirt when she saw it in her local branch.

The stylish social media star says her supermarket steal looks extremely similar to a designer blouse by Stockholm fashion house TOTEME - but can you tell them apart?

Alerting her followers to the high street dupe, the stylish social media star said: 'Guys I found this shirt in Marks and Spencer.

Emily Tierney (pictured( raved about her high street find in a TikTok video earlier this month. The actress and fashion blogger styled her new blouse with some leather trousers and a gold chain

Emily says her blouse was giving her 'TOTEME' vibes. Pictured: the 500 designer blouse which seems to have inspired the M&S silk shirt

'It's giving me absolute Toteme vibes but for about 30. Get yourselves down to M&S!'

She then proceeded to style it with some slim-leg leather trousers and a thin gold chain.

The main difference between the two shirts is that the 500 black Toteme offering has white pinstripes running most of the way down the front before then going in a diagonal direction.

What's more, it also purposefully oversized and has a drop-shoulder cut to give it a more relaxed finish.

Appearing to take inspiration from this, M&S' version is also big on the shoulders and has a white-and-black pinstripe pattern.

But rather than having one wide stripe running lengthways down the front like TOTEME, the brand instead separated the pattern into four pinstripe squares.

After raving about the dupe to her followers, Emily captioned her video: 'Marks and Spencer coming up trumps!'

What's more, the style has proven to be so popular that it has currently sold out on the brand's website - meaning shoppers were desperate to get their hands on it in store.

Emily sent shoppers wild after alerting them to M&S' version of the 500 designer shirt from TOTEME

'Tell me there's matching trousers,' one replied.

Another added: 'Wow - love it!!'

Wanting to recreate Emily's look, a third replied: 'Love the shirt but can't find it online!'

In a follow-up Instagram Reel, Emily joked: 'Shall we petition M&S to restock this shirt? I got lucky and found mine in store so keep your eyes peeled.'

'We absolutely need them to re stock it,' a fan replied. 'I neeeeed one.'

'Lovely combo with the leather trousers hun,' another gushed.

Meanwhile, a fan added: 'Love, love, love and I'd never have guessed M&S!!'
22 Kids and Counting viewers were left unimpressed after Noel Radford toyed with the idea of retiring from his bakery in an episode of the hit series dubbed 'contrived' by audiences.

At the start of the Channel 5 show last night, the father-of-22 admitted that he spends too much time at the Radford Pie Company in Morecambe, which he's owned since 1999.

Craving more family time, the dad of Britain's biggest brood, 52, announced that he was ready to retire in order to help his wife Sue around the home, and enjoy more of his children's company.

He even had his daughter Chloe, 27, and son Luke, 22, compete to see who was the best placed to take over the family's business. However, after finding retirement boring, the dad-of-22 eventually had to beg his children back for his job.

Viewers did not enjoy the episode, with some saying it felt like the intrigue was forced, and that Noel had never intended to retire at all.

Father-of-22 Noel Radford claimed last night on Channel 5 that he wanted to step back from his Morecambe bakery

Noel, who has been a baker since leaving school, admitted at the start of the show that he was beginning to dream of retirement.

'I've been dreaming about walking away so much recently,' he said in the programme. 'I just don't know how things will go.'

'You need to let things go a bit before you can even think about retiring,' Sue told her husband.

As the couple discussed their family life and relationship, Noel admitted that he felt he was 'missing out on family time,' and leaving Sue dealing with the brunt of childcare and housework.

'I could maybe take a step back or even retire,' Noel told Sue.

'It would be difficult, it's my baby,' he said of the business, before adding: 'something has got to give.'

The dad decided to choose between his two heirs apparent: Chloe and Luke, who have both trained with him at the pie shop.

'I just want one person running the business, I just think it's better,' he told the pair during a visit to the bakery's warehouse.

The father of Britain's biggest family said the long hours he put in at the bakery made him feel like he was missing on family time

After 'retiring' Noel, who was no help with housework for Sue, found himself bored with his free time

On the show, Chloe and Luke set out to compete with one another, wowing Noel with their plans for the shop, with Luke offering a free pie offer to introduce new customers to the Radford Pie Company.

Eventually, after a few days of reflection, Noel agreed to leave the running of the bakery to both Chloe and her brother.

The 27-year-old would look after the bake house, while Luke would look after the pie shop.

'You're both Radfords, as it's our name on the door. You're going to look after it just the same a us,' he told his children as he gave them the keys to the shop.

'I'm now blocking your numbers, please don't call me,' Noel joked.

'My dad's decision is fair, the right decision, it's not too much on either of us. I got the bakery, so I got the big dog,' a beaming Chloe said.

'Now I got the keys to the till, look out Dad,' Luke joked.

The episode marked the 'end of an era' for Noel, who was filmed prepping his last batch of pies.

'I'm a bit emotional, but at the same time, I'm happy,' the father-of-22 said.

'No more getting up early. Hang up my gloves, time to move on, it'll make life a bit more simple, I think,' he said.

Viewers gave the episode a mixed reaction and said the intrigue of Noel retiring felt 'contrived'

'Last day at the bakery, am happy and sad at the same time, but yeah, I'm done. Goodbye bakery,' Noel said, before turning the lights of the warehouse off.

However, Noel found out that retirement wasn't all what it was cracked up to be.

He struggled to help Sue around the house, shrinking the children's clothes in the wash, and failing to meet Sue's high cleaning standards.

'I've no idea what I'm doing here,' he admitted.

After struggling with housework, the newly-retired dad decided to try his hand at clay pigeon shooting, something he's always wanted to try.

But once his first practice complete, Noel realised he missed his family, and found his new freedom boring.

'I'm not past my best-by date yet, I think I'm going back,' he told Sue.

The mother-of-22 warned him: 'There actually one problem there, actually, two.

'You can't go back to being a control freak. You're going to have to ask Luke and Chloe if you can have your job back,' she said with a chuckle.

The episode ended with Noel popping into the bakery to announce to Chloe and Luke he wanted to gte his job back.

'Dad's back,' he said.

As he explained to Chloe and Luke that he wants to get his job back, Chloe could be heard saying: 'You're only an employee now.'

The episode received mixed reactions, with some saying that the intrigue felt 'contrived.'

'What a load of nonsense. We all know hes not retired,' one viewers said.

'This week Noels pretending hes going to retire,' one commented.

'These forced storylines are ruining the show. As if hes going to hand his whole business over to his daughter whilst shes on maternity leave or son who cant make a pie without burning it,' one said.

'After all this faux drama. Noel is going to decide not to retire after all. I bet ya,' another wrote.
Meghan Markle was 'surprised and disappointed' that Prince Harry 'had very little money', a royal expert has claimed.

Royal author Tom Bower appeared on GB News earlier this month, where he spoke to the MailOnline's Dan Wootton about the couple's early relationship.

Discussing the Duchess' misconceptions about the Royal Family, the author - who wrote the 2022 book Revenge: Meghan, Harry and the War Between the Windsors - described the former Suits actress as 'money-obsessed'.

The expert said: 'Her great surprise and disappointment was that Prince Harry had very little money.

'She had imagined he would be worth hundreds of millions, if not billions, and she is having to make up for it now.'

Meghan Markle was 'surprised and disappointed' that Prince Harry 'had very little money', royal expert Tom Bower has sensationally claimed. Pictured: the couple in the grounds of Kensington Palace after their engagement was announced in November 2017

Describing how the couple could not afford their current lifestyle as working members of the Royal Family, the expert added: 'She wants to ride in the big Cadillacs, the private jets on command.

'At the moment she needs to scrounge for those sorts of things.'

Elsewhere in the interview, Tom claimed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's attendance at the coronation has the potential to 'ruin' the coronation and 'overshadow' King Charles.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to be invited to the Coronation on May 6, despite the fallout from Harry's explosive memoir Spare.

While they were still senior working royals, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were mostly funded by King Charles' Duchy of Cornwall estate.

Following the couple's decision to leave the Firm, it was reported Charles' 1.2billion Duchy of Cornwall estate paid his youngest son around 2.3million-a-year on average.

However, the couple said this sum covered 95 per cent of their office expenditure.

The remaining five per cent of their annual income came from the taxpayer-funded 82m annual Sovereign Grant, which is handed to the most senior members of the royal family.

Royal author Tom Bower (pictured) appeared on GB News earlier this month, where he spoke to the Daily Mail's Dan Wootton about the couple's early relationship

What is the Sovereign Grant? The Sovereign Grant is a funding mechanism of the monarchy. It is an annual sum which covers the work of the Royal Family. The grant includes expenses to maintain workspaces and official residences. The Queen gives up the revenue of the Crown Estate and in return the funds are granted to the Queen for expenditure. In the 2018-2019 fiscal report, the Queen gave up around 329 million from the Crown Estate to the government. In exchange for 82 million to cover the costs for official expenditure. The Sovereign Grant for 2020-2021 is 85.9 million. Advertisement

The 2.4million refurbishment of Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate was also paid for by this pot, which Prince Harry has since repaid.

When they announced they were stepping down as working royals, the couple pledged in a statement that they wanted to become 'financially independent while continuing to support Her Majesty The Queen'.

Months later, the couple signed a deal with Netflix and included their explosive six-part documentary series. It was reported the couple were paid up to 88m for the show, which landed on the streaming service last December.

In December 2020, it was reported the couple had signed a 30m podcast deal with Spotify to host their own shows as part of Archewell Audio.

In their explosive interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021, Prince Harry said he had to rely on his inheritance in the wake of Megxit.

He said: 'I've got what my mum left me.

'Without that, we wouldn't have been able to do this.'

Harry is also reported to have inherited around 20million from his mother, Princess Diana, who died when he was 12. The Queen Mother also left him up to 7million.

Meanwhile, Meghan has a reported personal fortune of 4million, mainly from her acting work and property in Canada.

Before quitting the series to move to the UK, Meghan was reportedly paid $50,000 for every appearance in Suits and went on to star in more than 100 episodes.

In his book Meghan: A Hollywood Princess, royal biographer Andrew Morton - who penned Diana: Her True Story - claimed Meghan started charging 15,000 for every speaking engagement following her UN speech in March 2015.

Describing how Meghan's 'price tag rose' in line with her celebrity status, the author claims she signed with the elite talent agency Kruger Cowne - which represents Cher, Elle Macpherson and Goldie Hawn - around this time.

In their bombshell Netflix documentary, Meghan claimed she knew nothing about her future beau's lifestyle and even had to Google the British national anthem.
Bondi Icebergs, one of Australia's most well-known restaurants, has been called out over a bowl of $68 pasta after a customer ranted about whether it's 'really worth it'.

The restaurant, which is owned by first generation Australian Maurice Terzini, is known for its celebrity clientele, sweeping views and 'high-end' atmosphere.

But one foodie, who recently took part in the restaurant's 4pm 'sunset lunch' session, has questioned whether eating at the iconic venue is 'worth it'.

Special K Gourmet, a self-described foodie from Sydney, said she was booking into the restaurant's sunset session when she decided to take a look at the menu.

'I get there is cost of living, I get cost of staff, and rent and all of that stuff goes in but is $68 for a bowl of pasta worth it?' she asked.

The two pasta dishes which cost $68 include the ragu and the seafood spaghetti.

Mr Terzini, who comes from humble beginnings and has long defended his position in the industry, told FEMAIL there are 'many more options' on the menu, not just the $68 pasta dishes.

Maurice Terzini (pictured right with his former wife, fashion designer Lucy Hinckfuss) opposed Sydney's lockdown laws right from the start in 2014

The two pasta dishes which cost $68 include the ragu and the seafood spaghetti

Poll Would you pay $68 for pasta? Yes No Would you pay $68 for pasta? Yes 55 votes

No 651 votes Now share your opinion





'Your choice if you want to spend ten or $1,000,' he said.

'In this climate is a $10,000 Chanel bag still worth it?' he asked.

He also said the $68 price is 'only for the Sunday menu' and reflects the higher wages for the last day of the week.

He also said it 'includes GST' which should be considered by diners.

The foodie, who created a video to express her shock at the menu prices asked her followers how much they would pay for a bowl of pasta.

Some people were quick to agree with her.

'Lets be real Icebergs aint that nice to pay $68 for pasta,' one woman said.

'$68? Tell 'em their dreamin',' said another.

One woman said it is 'definitely worth it' if there's diamonds in the bowl.

Pictured at Icebergs: Friends and Hollywood stars Matt Damon and Chris Hemsworth with director Taika Waititi

Even 'industry types appeared shocked by the price.

'Ive worked in some very premium restaurants in Australia that have world renown chefs and impeccable views and never seen prices like that,' one man said.

Others stood up for the iconic eatery which is frequented by celebrities and the rich and famous.

'The demographic who complain about the price is not the demographic Icebergs is for,' one woman said.

'Is it expensive? Yes, is it worth it? Yes. Icebergs is an impeccable restaurant. Its not made for people who want to dissect the price of a bill,' she added.

One woman said it's 'absolutely worth it' as long as the pasta is 'handmade'.

Mr Terzini has previously hit out at 'rude' diners and 'bad online reviewers' in his new book celebrating 20 years of the Bondi institution.

'The era of the keyboard warrior is dead. I don't care anymore. In fact, caring about them was diluting the pleasure for the people I do care about,' he wrote.

The foodie circled the pasta on the menu - as Mr Terzini suggested people consider 'Sunday wages'

'People in a restaurant need to take responsibility too. They need to think while they are out  there's a difference between thinking the meat is a couple of degrees over and 'I'm sending it back'.

'People should think about the ramifications before they ruin the meal for everyone they're sitting with.'

He made a comparison with how his father, who is an Italian migrant, takes great pleasure in some of the simple things in life.

'I see my Papa, and he has a bottle from Dan Murphy's: 'Cinque (five) dollars,' he says. He pours it, takes a sip, looks me in the eye and says 'Buono (good)'.

'In those moments, I just want to be him. Buono. Maybe it was because they were peasants, but with my parents there's no analysing, it's just buono. I think we all could do with a bit of that.'

P.E. Nation founder Pip Edwards is pictured at Bondi Icebergs - a famed celebrity hangout

Icebergs reopened just before Christmas after being closed for months for much needed repairs and upgrades.

'I'm 58. I was always going to pull the pin after 20 years, that was my line of sight,' Mr Terzini said.

'With the restorations  that's what we call it, rather than renovations  it's just too beautiful to give away right now.

'That really drove me in delivering this mark two. It's not really a new Icebergs, it's got some additions, we've repaired everything.

'We've had to put a new roof on, OHS issues had become important. In the last week of service we had 37 leaks. We can't have that. We're not a cafe down the road.'
But others say 'next Sunday' and argue it depends on how the week starts

As an example, some might say 'this Sunday' as the coming Sunday

Thousands have been baffled by the two different ways people read calendars.

Steve, from the UK, was in disbelief when he discovered some people describe the coming Sunday as 'this Sunday' while others say it as 'next Sunday'.

'This is f****** with my head. How do you read a calendar?' Steve said in a video.

'If you read it how I read it, then next Sunday is the 25th. THIS Sunday is the 18th. But I'm guessing that some people read it as the 18th is next Sunday because it hasn't actually happened yet.'

'Next Sunday means next Sunday, not this Sunday. Tell me I'm not wrong.'

Scroll down for video

UK TikToker Steve, who goes by the username @steves_bored, shared the two ways people read calendars.In a video posted on a Wednesday, he said some people read the coming Sunday as 'this Sunday' while others read it as 'next Sunday'. 'This is f****** with my head. How do you read a calendar?' Steve said in the clip

Poll How do you say this coming Sunday? This Sunday Next Sunday How do you say this coming Sunday? This Sunday 1234 votes

Next Sunday 176 votes Now share your opinion





Opinions were divided on TikTok with most agreeing with Steve's stance while others say he was 'wrong'.

The video has since been viewed a staggering 3.2million times.

'You are correct,' one person commented, another agreed and said: 'I'm with you'.

'This week is this week next week is next week,' a third added.

Some argued it 'depends' on whether the calendar used starts with Sunday as the first day of the week.

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Others admitted they call the coming Sunday 'next Sunday'.

'Next Sunday is the next Sunday, so 18th,' one wrote.

'I moved to Ireland and they would say the 18th is next Sunday, and the 25th as Sunday week. I've had many an argument about it,' another said.

A third said: 'Depends how your weeks start and finish.'

Many also say 'Sunday week' instead of 'next Sunday'.
The at-home tests launch in stores on Monday and will cost between 8 and 12

There will also be tests for the menopause, thyroid problems and deficiencies

Tesco has partnered with Newfoundland Diagnostics to offer tests for cancer

Tesco is now selling at-home kits which will let you test yourself for conditions such as bowel cancer and kidney problems.

The supermarket giant has struck a first-of-its-kind deal with provider Newfoundland, a leading UK provider of diagnostic tests.

Tesco will stock self-diagnostic tests on its website and across more than 500 stores nationwide from today.

It comes amid huge pressure on the NHS and record long waiting times for doctors, with consumer demand growing for at-home self-diagnostic tools.

Newfoundland will also be supplying Tesco with tests for the menopause, iron and vitamin D deficiencies, thyroid problems, Covid, flu and male fertility. Kits will cost between 8 and 12.

Tesco is selling at-home kits that will let you test yourself for conditions such as bowel cancer and kidney problems

The supermarket giant struck a first-of-its-kind deal with provider Newfoundland, a leading UK provider of diagnostic tests

Tesco will stock self-diagnostic tests on its website and across more than 500 stores nationwide, launching in shops on Monday

The deal with Tesco marks the first time self-diagnostic test kits for widespread health conditions will be available with a major UK retailer.

Some self-testing kits are already available at the likes of Superdrug.

Newfoundland was launched during the pandemic to distribute Covid lateral flow tests.

Co-founder Frederick Manduca said: 'We want to provide people with the opportunity to take their health into their own hands at an affordable price.

'With long wait times for doctors and hospital appointments and the very high price point of diagnostic lab tests, we're offering rapid at home tests that arm people with vital knowledge that can alleviate pressure both on the NHS and patients themselves.'

Mr Manduca said it plans to widen the tests available through Tesco to cover prostate cancer, HIV and urinary tract infections.

It is aiming to launch its at-home HIV testing kit this summer.

He said the group is also in talks to sell its range of tests through a number of other retailers, as well as pharmacies, across the UK.

But there are concerns among GPs over the rise of home testing, which they fear could lead some people to misinterpret results and to add extra workloads on over-stretched doctors.

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: 'Self-testing products, available over the counter without prescription, come with pros and cons.

'They can, of course, provide some peace of mind for patients  and for relatively minor conditions, with clear and easy to access treatment options, they may avoid the patient having to seek medical assistance.

'Without the appropriate aftercare services, patients may not know how to properly interpret results, or safely and appropriately act on them.

'In the case of more serious conditions, such as cancer, people may not have the appropriate support in place to deal with what could be very distressing news.

'Some tests are also quite general, not testing for a specific condition, carrying the risk that some of the results will be unimportant or of dubious value and could leave people unnecessarily confused and distressed.'

Newfoundland will also be supplying Tesco with tests for the menopause, iron and vitamin D deficiencies, thyroid problems, Covid, flu and male fertility, costing between 8 and 12

The deal with Tesco marks the first time self-diagnostic test kits for widespread health conditions will be available with a major UK retailer

She added: 'We know from experience, many patients make appointments with their GP for help analysing the results of at-home tests and to discuss the implications of them, in many cases not really needing medical assistance.

'This also takes up valuable GP time when we and our teams are working under considerable pressure, and patients who really need our care and services are struggling to access them.'

Mr Manduca stressed that Newfoundland's tests are not designed to replace GPs, but to act as an initial screening tool.

He said: 'This is an additional tool kit to understand one's health. It's not to replace, but to go alongside it.'

Newfoundland said it will be providing additional information on how to correctly use the tests via its app, as well as in leaflets provided in the kits, and also how to read the results.

Mr Manduca said: 'With the bowel health screening test, a positive result does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but that it could be an indicator and that it may be worth having a check up.'

He said that having an initial screening test can help with early detection that can be critical to the treatment of many diseases, such as prostate cancer in particular.

'Having a test that's easy to do  and accessible as well  would make a huge difference to early detection, which really significantly increases the survival rate of this type of cancer,' he said.

Mr Manduca set up Newfoundland with co-founder Michael Hodnett in 2021 and has already notched up sales of more than 150 million and sold around 91 million tests.

It has supplied major groups such as the NHS, online takeaway delivery firm Deliveroo, the Team GB British Olympic team, as well as a number of governments across the world.
They are expected to move onto Pennsylvania to get an overview of health issues

Officials are carrying out door-to-door health surveys on residents in East Palestine amid fears of an emerging public health crisis.

A team of 19 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) staff will be asking residents to complete 30-minute surveys under a President Biden order.

It comes more than three weeks after a chemical train derailment let off an explosion of toxic plumes, which has led to a wave of bizarre symptoms among residents near the crash site.

Wade Lovett, 40, claims he has developed a high-pitched, Michael-Jackson-like voice and trouble breathing since the chemical incident.

He told DailyMail.com today the problem 'just keeps getting worse and worse'. Meanwhile, others have been coughing up gray mucus and reporting sunburn-like injuries, feared to be the result of chemical exposure.

The chemicals on the board the train were vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, benzene residue, glycol monobutyl ether, ethylhexyl acrylate and isobutylene

Wade Lovett, 40, has suffered breathing difficulties and his previously low voice now sounds high-pitched and squeaky. He has had to go off work sick as a result

Ayla Antoniazzi told CNN: 'I did allow my four-year-old to return to preschool, which is in the East Palestine Elementary School. She went back for two days and developed another rash her hands and started complaining of itching, so I pulled her back out'

The toxic chemicals on board the trains are known to cause long-lasting damage, meaning these symptoms may only be the beginning for residents.

The CDC representatives are expected to move into neighboring Pennsylvania this week and will also target the first responders at the derailment site.

Mr Lovett, an auto detailer, lives with his fiancee about 15 minutes from where the trains derailed but he works close to the site, which is why he believes he had been so badly affected.

Melissa Blake lives within a mile radius of the crash site in East Palestine. She told NBC News she began coughing up gray mucus and struggled to breathe two days after the train derailment on February 3.

She left her home and went straight to the emergency room, where doctors diagnosed her with 'acute bronchitis due to chemical fumes'.

Ms Blake was given a breathing machine, oxygen, and three types of steriods. She was discharged from the hospital but is yet to return to her home.

The symptoms are yet to be officially linked to the derailment but the toxic chemicals released are known to cause a host of other effects, including cancer.

Exposure to chemicals can cause industrial or chemical bronchitis  inflammation of the airways in the lungs.

Symptoms include a cough that can last for weeks, coughing up mucus, chest pain, wheezing and shortness of breath.

A high-pitched voice could occur alongside wheezing, caused by air being forced through inflamed airways.

The mucus is usually yellow-green or yellow-gray in color. Inhaled irritants mixed in with the phlegm can cause it to be charcoal or gray.

Continued exposure to the irritant can lead to permanent lung damage, according to Mount Sinai.

Authorities say air monitoring has not detected dangerous levels of fumes in communities where crews released and burned toxic chemicals from a derailed train

A giant plume of smoke from the aftermath of the incident could be seen from miles away

Howard Young, general manager at CeramFab, a manufacturing company next to the derailment site, said half of its workforce were too ill to work last week.

Workers had symptoms including nosebleeds, rashes and were diagnosed with chemical bronchitis at the hospital.

Several residents in surrounding areas have been documenting their symptoms in Facebook groups and are finding it difficult to get proper medical advice as doctors are left stumped by what tests to do.

Barbara Levy, a marketing coordinator living in Youngstown in Ohio, a 30-minute drive from East Palestine, said she was suffering with what felt and looked like sunburn on her face and was 'really itchy'.

She has struggled to get sufficient medical attention and said doctors 'don't want to deal with it'.

Ya'oh-Khanah Ashath Shamashon, who lives in Campbell in Ohio, said herself and two of her daughters have been getting 'hive-like rashes all over our bodies and headaches' for 'over a week'.

She said: 'We can't leave because we have nowhere to go at the moment. It worries me because I have a six-month old. I have not bathed him with the water. I bought gallons of water to bathe him in... This is so upsetting.'

Ayla and Tyler Antoniazzi said they were considering moving out of the area after their two young daughters began to show symptoms.

They live less than a mile from the incident and went back to their house the following day after the evacuation notice was lifted, but told CNN her children 'werent themselves'.

She said: 'My oldest had a rash on her face. The youngest did too but not as bad. The two-year-old was holding her eye and complaining that her eye was hurting. She was very lethargic.'

'I did allow my four-year-old to return to preschool, which is in the East Palestine Elementary School. She went back for two days and developed another rash on her hands and started complaining of itching, so I pulled her back out,' she added.

Commentators on Twitter have likened the disaster to Chernobyl  the 1986 nuclear accident in Ukraine. Thirty-two people died as a result of radiation sickness and left many more who were exposed seriously unwell.

The CDC are finally in the town, under President Biden's orders, and will visit homes to ask how residents are doing, see what they need and connect them with appropriate resources from government and nonprofit organizations.

But the Biden Administration has been criticized for being too slow to respond to the outbreak - with neither the president nor transport secretary visiting for weeks.

Ohio's Department of Health also opened a health clinic in East Palestine last week amid fears of a public health crisis.

It rapidly expanded its services to offers tens of thousands of residents in Ohio and Pennsylvania free health checks.

The toxic soup of chemicals unleashed following an Ohio train crash include two known carcinogens and other substances which can cause convulsions and vomiting.

Railroad company Norfolk Southern let the chemicals into the atmosphere in a controlled fashion days later which they said was necessary to avert a possible explosion.

Originally, Norfolk Southern released a fact sheet that listed the chemicals on the board the train as vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate, benzene residue and other combustible liquids.

It then emerged that three more dangerous chemicals  glycol monobutyl ether, ethylhexyl acrylate and isobutylene  were on board the train.

Vinyl chloride is a carcinogen that can shut down the central nervous system, while benzene is a naturally occurring colorless or pale yellow liquid.

Minutes to hours after breathing benzene in, it can bring on symptoms including drowsiness, dizziness, increased or irregular heartbeat, headaches, confusion, unconsciousness and even death at very high levels.

Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether is a liquid used in paint stripper that can cause vomiting, ethylhexyl acrylate is a substance in glue that causes drowsiness and butyl acrylate is a colorless liquid also used to make paints, glues and sealants.

According to the CDC, severe exposure to its vapor can lead to irritation in the eyes, including redness and tearing up, a scratchy throat, issues with breathing and redness and cracking of the skin.

Animals in the area have also been turning up dead. A North Lima resident, roughly ten miles from the train derailment, had her six chickens die days after the chemical fire started.

Taylor Holzer, a registered foxkeeper who lives outside the evacuation perimeter, told WKBN all his foxes were ill and one had died. Dead fish were also spotted in waterways around the scene after the incident.
Socioeconomic growth goals high on meetings' agenda

08:36, February 27, 2023 By CAO DESHENG ( China Daily

A staff member packs takeouts at a restaurant in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province, Jan 13, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

The spotlight will be on Beijing as the two sessions, China's biggest annual political event and a window to observe the country's development, get underway on Saturday.

The two sessions are the meetings of the National People's Congress, the nation's top legislature, and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the country's top political advisory body.

While looking back at achievements made in the past years, policymakers will use the two sessions to set development goals for the year ahead and unveil new policy priorities.

Against the backdrop of the lingering effects of COVID-19, all eyes are on China and how it formulates its 2023 socioeconomic development goals after announcing on Feb 16 that it had secured a "major, decisive victory" in fighting the virus.

Observers are also watching how policymakers respond to people's concerns over issues such as employment, education, housing and healthcare, as well as how the legislation and policies unveiled at the two sessions boost market confidence both at home and abroad.

Gao Ruidong, chief macroeconomist at Everbright Securities, said the key phrases for this year's two sessions will be "stabilizing growth" and "boosting high-quality development". The focus will also be on what measures are unveiled to stimulate consumption and expand investment, particularly in the infrastructure, manufacturing and real estate sectors, he said.

In the past three years, China's average economic growth maintained a hard-won 4.5 percent year-on-year, Gao said, adding that the growth rate is expected to be higher this year given the good momentum and the rapid recovery of both consumption and investment.

The strong resilience of the Chinese economy can be seen in official statistics. In January, the country's manufacturing sector started to expand again after shrinking for three consecutive months, with the purchasing managers' index reaching 50.1, up from 47 in December, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

As China has optimized its epidemic prevention and control measures, the flow of people, goods and information has brought much vitality to the country.

The rebound of the Chinese economy has not just attracted global attention, but has also sparked interest among international investors. Foreign direct investment in the Chinese mainland, in actual use, expanded 14.5 percent year-on-year to 127.69 billion yuan ($18.4 billion) in January, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

After international investment banks and financial institutions, including Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Barclays and Natixis, upwardly revised their 2023 forecasts for China, the International Monetary Fund also lifted its forecast of China's economic growth rate for this year. "Growth in China is projected to rise to 5.2 percent in 2023, reflecting improving mobility," the IMF said in an update to its World Economic Outlook report. The updated number was 0.8 percentage points higher than the October 2022 forecast.

Seen as an embodiment of Chinese democracy, the NPC session will bring together some 3,000 lawmakers from across the country to discuss major laws, and approve several key documents, including the Government Work Report and the national budget.

More than 2,000 political advisers will participate in discussions of the documents and put forward their opinions and suggestions at the session of the CPPCC National Committee.

While shaping the political and economic agendas for the year ahead, the two sessions are also likely to announce plans for military, diplomatic, trade, environmental and other policies.

The sessions are very significant this year as 2023 marks the start of the country's new journey to realize Chinese-style modernization  a goal that the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in October set in order to build China into a modern socialist country in all respects by the middle of this century.

As this year marks the 45th anniversary of China's reform and opening-up, the two sessions might send messages to the world on the fresh moves to further deepen reform and opening-up, while emphasizing coordination of both development and security, analysts said.

The tone-setting Central Economic Work Conference in December made it clear that China will promote a new round of all-around reforms and adhere to high-level opening-up. A proposal for the reform of Party and State institutions was discussed at the meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Feb 21.

Yang Changyong, a researcher at the Beijing-based Academy of Macroeconomic Research, said that amid the complex international environment, it is necessary to pay attention to the traditional security issues in opening-up, such as trade frictions and export restrictions.

In the meantime, Yang said, the nation should attach greater importance to the new security problems arising from the changes of the international landscape in recent years, including food security, energy and resources security, and industrial and supply security.

While watching China's policy support for economic recovery, observers said that global attention will also be focused in the direction of China's post-COVID foreign policy amid the challenges of geopolitical competitions and the influences of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly how it handles relations with the United States.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Foreign Minister Park Jin, second row second from left, National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo, second row third from left, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, back row seventh from left, ambassadors of 24 countries and other dignitaries pose during a presentation luncheon hosted by the Global Elim Foundation in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, Monday. The foundation was established to support foreign students, residents and multicultural families in Korea. Courtesy of Global Elim Foundation



By Park Han-sol



The Global Elim Foundation, which was founded by Yoido Full Gospel Church to support foreign students, residents and multicultural families in Korea, unveiled on Monday its major projects that will go into effect this year and its plan to establish wider partnerships with government agencies and non-profit organizations.



The foundation's presentation luncheon, held in Yeongdeungpo District, Seoul, invited Foreign Minister Park Jin, National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon and the ambassadors of 24 countries, in addition to foreign residents, migrant workers and multicultural family members here.



"The number of foreign students in Korean universities has been increasing steadily and we foresee the numbers will continue to grow. As of 2022, Korea has approximately 167,000 foreign students from all over the world," Lee Young-hoon, the foundation's chairman and senior pastor of Yoido Full Gospel Church, said at the event.



Seoul Mayor Oh said, "There are approximately 430,000 foreign residents in Seoul alone, accounting for 4.5 percent of the city's total population. When taking into consideration the rising influx of migrant workers due to the expansion of global exchanges and Korea's labor shortage, the number of foreigners and multicultural families in Korea are expected to continue increasing in the foreseeable future."



Against ths backdrop, the Global Elim Foundation is seeking to broaden its partnerships with other organizations to systematize its cultural and administrative assistance for foreigners here.



For the students, its Global Mentoring Center provides scholarships and career guidance, while an internship program offers opportunities to learn about Korean culture and language through hands-on experiences.



The foundation also recently opened the Global Trauma Center to provide counseling in 10 different languages to aid anyone suffering from traumas caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, wars and natural disasters. Its newly renovated Elim Multicultural Center aims to offer spaces for emergency and short-term housing.


America's ambassador to China has demanded more pressure to be placed on Beijing to be honest about the origin of the Covid pandemic.

The comments from Nicholas Burns - made during a US Chamber of Commerce event Monday - come amid a diplomatic row between the two countries over the true source of the pandemic.

It comes a day after a leaked report revealed the US Energy Department believes the virus was released from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

The agency has joined the FBI in believing the pandemic was borne out of a lab accident - a theory dismissed as conspiracy in the early days of the pandemic by high-ranking US officials, including Dr Anthony Fauci. Chinese officials have accused the US of a 'smear' campaign.

The question of whether the global outbreak began with a spillover from wildlife sold at the market or leaked out of the Wuhan lab just eight miles across the Yangtze River has given rise to fierce debate about how to prevent the next pandemic. New studies point to a natural spillover at the Huanan wildlife market. Positive swab samples of floors, cages and counters also track the virus back to stalls in the southwestern corner of the market (bottom left), where animals with the potential to harbor Covid were sold for meat or fur at the time (bottom right)

Nicholas Burns, America's ambassador to China, asked for the US to put more pressure on China in the hunt for Covid's origin.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning blasted what she termed 'politicization' of theories on the origins of COVID-19, after an Energy Department analysis that pointed to possibility of a leak from the Wuhan lab

'(Of) course, be more honest about what happened three years ago in Wuhan with the origin of the COVID-19 crisis,' Burns said.

The Energy Department made its judgment with 'low confidence' in a classified intelligence report recently provided to the White House and key members of Congress, the Wall Street Journal said, citing people who had read the intelligence report.

The department did not respond to a request for comment.

The agency's change of tune is important because the agency is known for its expertise and oversees various US laboratories, some of which carry out biological research.

Covid DID leak from Wuhan virus lab, Energy Department concludes The Energy Department has now joins the FBI in saying virus spread from Wuhan lab Advertisement

President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said on Sunday there were a 'variety of views in the intelligence community' on the pandemic's origins.

'A number of them have said they just don't have enough information,' Sullivan told CNN.

Officials in the East Asian nation disputed the findings.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning accused unnamed parties of trying to smear or vilify China  even amid continued calls for China to provide full access to information from its Wuhan facility.

'Certain parties should stop rehashing the "lab leak" narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing,' she said during a press briefing Monday.

'The origin of the novel coronavirus is a scientific issue and should not be politicized.'

She talked up Chinese cooperation with investigating agencies, although in 2021 China rejected a World Health Organization effort to hold a second phase of its investigation.

The group has denied abandoning its inquiry amid China's obstacles.

While the lab leak theory was initially dismissed as conspiracy and xenophobic, many scientists have come around to the idea that the virus may have escaped during an accident at the WIV.

The research facility is less than 10 miles from an animal slaughter market where the first human case series was clustered.

Some experts also claim that Covid's unique spike protein, which it uses to infect people, shows hallmarks of human engineering.

But others have deemed those scenarios unlikely and say that there is some indirect evidence that Covid did jump from animals at the Huanan Seafood Market, where animals known to harbor Covid including raccoon dogs, hedgehogs, rats and squirrels, were kept in squalid conditions.

Direct and conclusive evidence for a natural or man-made origin has yet to emerge, but the lack of proof has allowed the fierce debate to proliferate.

The Energy Department has reversed its position and concluded based on new intelligence that the Covid-19 virus most likely leaked from a Chinese research lab. Pictured is the Wuhan Institute of Virology in February 2021

Virologist Shi Zheng-li - nicknamed the 'Bat Lady' - is pictured in the lab. She hunted down dozens of deadly Covid-like viruses in bat caves and studied them at the WIV

After the eruption of the pandemic, Chinese officials were found to have wiped crucial databases from the lab and stifled independent investigations into the facility when questions started to be asked about its involvement.

Researchers who fell ill with a mysterious flu-like virus months before the official Covid timeline were silenced or disappeared.

One of its chief scientists was nicknamed the 'Bat Lady' for her extensive work on coronaviruses like Covid.

In January, the US Office of Inspector General openly criticized the National Institutes of Health for failing to properly keep up with US-funded virus experiments in China in the run up to the outbreak.

The federal audit examined three taxpayer-funded research grants awarded to EcoHealth Alliance by British scientist Peter Daszak between 2014 and 2021.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and EcoHealth failed to 'understand the nature of the research conducted, identify potential problem areas, and take corrective action'.

'With improved oversight, NIH may have been able to take more timely corrective actions to mitigate the inherent risks associated with this type of research,' the report added.
Vendor bought the 4X4 in June 2022 for just 44k - they've made an 80k profit

A Land Rover Defender built to an exacting specification requested by The Duke of Edinburgh has sold at auction for a world record figure of 123,750.

When the hammer dropped on Saturday, bidding had easily eclipsed the 50,000 to 70,000 guide price for the 2010 4X4 model first owned by Prince Philip.

The staggering sale of the Keswick Green Defender will be a big shock - and likely major blow - to the previous keeper who sold the car to the vendor last year for just 44,000.

It means the seller has almost doubled their money, pocketing a handsome 79,750 profit in less than a year. That's not a bad little earner considering they bought the vehicle only last summer.

Flipped for a profit: This Land Rover Defender 110, first owned by Prince Philip, has sold for a world record 123,750. The vendor only bought it in June 2022 and paid just 44,000 for it

The Land Rover Defender was delivered to The Duke of Edinburgh in 2010. Prince Philip, who died in 2021, is pictured here in June 2010 during a visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia in Canada

The specially-commissioned Land Rover was last sold on 17 June 2022 via online auction site, Collecting Cars.

At the time it had 15,459 miles on the clock.

By Saturday, it had totted up only another 164 miles, with the latest keeper using it sparingly during their short ownership.

And it's turned out to be a very handsome investment.

The weekend's sale price of 123,750 is not only the most money paid at a live auction for a Defender 110, it is the first to break beyond the 100,000 ceiling, according to the auction house.

This also means it secured the seller a financial return of 181 per cent in the space of just eight months.

The vendor - who is said to 'enjoy a significant private collection of special motor vehicles' - purchased the car from the previous owner who is the son of the Late Queen's chauffeur, David Key.

They had been the registered keeper for 11 years having acquired it from The Duke of Edinburgh himself.

The very same Land Rover changed hands in a Collecting Cars online auction for 44k last summer. It means the vendor has made almost an 80k profit in just 8 months

The vendor has pocketed a handsome 79,750 profit in less than a year, having only owned the vehicle since the summer

Under the bonnet is a barely used 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, which produces around 120bhp

With just 15,623 miles on the clock, the vendor has added only 164 miles to the odometer during their 8-month ownership. It was clearly a vehicle bought for investment purposes only

Under the bonnet is a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, which produces around 120bhp. It is linked to a six-speed manual transmission sending power to all four wheels.

Finished with a black cloth interior with Land Rover seat covers, the Defender was specified with heated seats, air conditioning, front and rear heated screens and alloy wheels. The original spare wheel strapped to the boot door remains unused.

Before the sale event on Saturday, Silverstone Auctions had said: 'Quite simply, this Defender needs to be seen in person to really appreciate it.

'Boasting an enviable combination of Royal provenance, an individual specification, low mileage and fantastic condition, this seems to tick all of the boxes for any serious collector of significant British vehicles.'

The sale price of 123,750 is not only the most money paid at a live auction for a Defender 110, it is the first to break beyond the 100,000 ceiling, according to the auction house

Inside, the Defender is finished with a black cloth interior with Land Rover seat covers

The modern-era Defender is crammed with features: heated seats, air conditioning, front and rear heated screens and alloy wheels

The Defender was one of a number of collectible motors to make world record sale prices at the Silverstone Auctions Race Retro Classic sale held at the weekend at Stoneleigh Park, near Coventry.

The standout sale was a 1987 Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500, which smashed the previous record amount paid for one of the rare Fast Fords an incredible four times over.

Rob Hubbard, Silverstone Auctions' sales director, commented: 'The team presented a superb catalogue of collectors' cars, which with global advertising, achieved some fantastic results and new world records.

'Bidders joined us remotely from 12 countries including Singapore, Dubai, and Switzerland.

'Our successes with 'Performance Fords' and cars with Royal provenance firmly cement our ownership of these market sectors and show that there is no better way to sell your car than at a physical auction with the UK Market Leading auction house.'

The vendor - who is said to 'enjoy a significant private collection of special motor vehicles' - purchased the car from the previous owner - the son of the Late Queen's chauffeur, David Key

Accompanying the sale was a history file containing letters between George Hassall, director of royal and diplomatic affairs at JLR, to David Key, head chauffeur to the Duke of Edinburgh

Philip, who died in April 2021, had a strong connection with Land Rover. He also designed his own specially modified Defender to carry his coffin

The Defender, said to be in 'gleaming condition', had previously been assigned the duke's personal registration number of 'OXR 2'.

Accompanying the sale was a history file containing letters between George Hassall, director of royal and diplomatic affairs at Jaguar Land Rover, to David Key, head chauffeur to the Duke of Edinburgh.

Other royal-related cars being auctioned include a 2013 Bentley Mulsanne that was used for royal household duties and made 81,100.

A 1942 Ford GPW Jeep that was used by King George VI on a wartime visit to RAF Chelveston that same year also sold successfully when the hammer dropped at 38,850.

Philip, who died in April 2021, had a strong connection with Land Rover. He also designed his own specially modified Defender to carry his coffin.

Also breaking records at the Silverstone Auctions Race Retro event was a pair of Lotus Elans from a single collection.

A 1966 Elan S3 driven by the character Emma Peel in sixties TV series The Avengers made 164,250, which is the record highest amount ever paid for a Elan at a live auction.

After filming Series 5 and 6, the television company gave this little Drophead coupe to Diana Rigg - who played Emma Peel in 51 episodes of the long-running British TV series - who retained it for years.

This is the 1966 Lotus Elan S3 Drophead Coupe that featured in sixties British hit series The Avengers series sold at the same auction for a record price
Maw previously worked for Innocence Project New Orleans; Refused to proceed with charges unless weapons seized were not returned to them

A man from Tennessee who was arrested in New Orleans for carrying a modified machine gun along the city's famous Bourbon Street has had his case dropped by a woke prosecutor from the Orleans Parish District Attorney's office.

Keaton Manghave, is among 15 people who were arrested in the Crescent City during Mardi Gras this past week, and who had their charges dropped.

The decision to drop the cases was made by Assistant District Attorney Emily Maw.

Maw, who now heads the Civil Rights unit, previously worked for Innocence Project New Orleans for 16 years before transferring to the DA's office two years ago.

She refused to proceed with the charges on conditions that the weapons seized from those arrested not be returned to them, according to Fox8Live.

15 people who were arrested in the Crescent City during Mardi Gras this past week had their cases and weapons charges dropped

New Orleans District Attorney Jason Williams, right, said assistant prosecutor Emily Maw, left, wrongly decided to drop the prosecution of more than a dozen illegal gun possession cases arising from Mardi Gras season arrests in exchange for the suspects' agreeing to forfeit their weapons

Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams saw Maw wrongly decided to drop the prosecution of more than a dozen illegal gun possession cases arising from Mardi Gras season arrests in exchange for the suspects' agreeing to forfeit their weapons

Manghave in particular had been charged with unlawful possession of a machine gun and illegal carrying of weapons.

Officers saw Manghave walking around with a gun and later discovered that the gun had been converted into a fully automatic weapon.

Despite the egregious nature of the alleged crimes, Maw refused to prosecute the case along with along with 14 others.

Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams has since distanced himself from the decision calling the attorney's actions 'improper and unrepresentative of office policy.'

Williams has pledged to conduct an internal review and take appropriate measures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.

In a statement released Thursday, Williams said Maw, who was assigned to review the cases during first appearances on Tuesday in magistrate court, deviated from the office's standard practices, which include a 'thorough screening process' for every charge.

It was not immediately clear whether authorities could choose to renew prosecution of the suspects.

Despite the egregious nature of the alleged crimes, Maw refused to prosecute the case along with along with 14 others

New Orleans Police Department Detective Louis Martinez Jr., next to New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, interim NOPD Superintendent Michelle Woodfork, Col. Lamar Davis of the Louisiana State Police, right, along with other members of law enforcement, NOFD and EMS walk down Bourbon Street just after midnight ceremoniously closing down Mardi Gras

Police work the scene of a shooting at the Krewe of Bacchus parade last Sunday. Five people were shot, including a young girl, during a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, police said

The statement said Williams had ordered 'an extensive internal review' of the cases and that his office was taking 'appropriate remedial measures to prevent similar unauthorized activity in the future.'

The decisions made by Maw, who was a close ally of Williams in his campaign to bring a reforms to the district attorney's office, were seized on by Williams' critics, who have since questioned the results of his progressive policies amid a surge in violent crime which has seen New Orleans become the murder capital of the US.

The former director of Innocence Project New Orleans, Maw, who was educated in Edinburgh had been a longtime advocate for wrongfully incarcerated people before she was brought into the DA's office by Williams in 2021 to head his offices newly created civil rights division.

Her office had been tasked with digging into cold cases, reducing sentences handed down by non-unanimous juries and reversing wrongful convictions.

Her appointment was among a number of moves made by Williams that aligned with his progressive philosophy on the criminal justice system, but as the numbers of murders, carjackings and violent carjackings have increased in the last two years, Williams has pedaled back on some policies including a promise not to charge juveniles as adults.

Crimes based on year-to-date show 2023 to be even worse than 2022

New Orleans remains a hot bed of crime with murders looking to break last year's record high

New Orleans overtook St. Louis as the US murder capital in the first half of 2022, as the city struggles with its lowest police staffing level in modern history amid a crisis of officer morale.

In the first six months of 2022, New Orleans recorded 41 murders per 100,000 population, a higher homicide rate than any other US city, according to a Wall Street Journal analysis of data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association.

By comparison, the first-half murder rate per 100,000 was 11.5 in Chicago , 4.8 in Los Angeles and 2.4 in New York City.

According to the nonpartisan watchdog Metropolitan Crime Commission, the city recorded 280 murders in New Orleans in 2022, the highest number of killings in a single year since 1996. The group says that number equals about 70 homicides for ever 100,000 residents.
The Pentagon office in charge of investigating unidentified objects  like those shot down over Alaska, Michigan and the Yukon this month  only had three staffers until recent weeks, sources told DailyMail.com.

The office has allegedly been slow to grow and is desperate for funding, despite the global spotlight on unknown objects flying in America's airspace that led to four sidewinder missile takedowns by US jets this month.

Both Democrat and Republican senators say they have complained 'for years' about the US military ignoring UFO reports and the security risks they entail.

And now a group of 16 senators, led by Republican Senator Marco Rubio of Florida and Democrat Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, wrote to the Pentagon Thursday asking for more money for AARO, warning that 'it is facing a funding shortfall that will impede its ability to fulfill its mission.'

Democrat Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Republican Senator Marco Rubio led a group of 16 senators who wrote to the Pentagon Thursday asking for more money for the office investigating UFOs

The All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) was set up by the Pentagon in July 2022 to probe UFO sightings in the US. The office has allegedly been slow to grow and is desperate for funding. US Air Force pilot is pictured looking down at the Chinese spy balloon

'While we recognize there was an Administration request for funds in Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) to fund basic operating expenses for AARO, it is facing a funding shortfall that will impede its ability to fulfill its mission,' the letter said

'While we recognize there was an Administration request for funds in Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) to fund basic operating expenses for AARO, it is facing a funding shortfall that will impede its ability to fulfill its mission,' the letter said.

'The amount outlined in the classified attachment is crucial to AARO's scientific plan, and the lack of funding for these capabilities presents a serious impediment to AARO's mission.'

The letter adds that 2024 budgets which are 'all but finalized' do not include adequate funds either.

The All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) was set up by the Pentagon in July last year to probe unidentified objects in US airspace, underwater and in space.

It took over from a previous office with the same job, which in November 2021 had just one staff member.

All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) director Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick is interviewing several UFO witnesses and is one of a few employees

'Until recently, they had three full-time staff,' one source close to AARO told DailyMail.com.

'They have a couple of extra helping hands but it's a small office in Crystal City, Virginia. However, I suspect they are in the process of bringing more on board.'

'When I visited the place the office was pretty much a cave of the winds,' another source close to the Office said. 'Mostly empty desks, but there were perhaps 4-6 people around as I recall, including Sean [AARO director Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick] and his Deputy.

'It is certainly true that AARO did not receive adequate funds to support its work to include money for R&D [research and development] and analysis.'

The source added that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) is meant to assign a deputy to liaise with AARO, but has yet to do so.

Bob Salas, an Air Force veteran who was interviewed by the office last week about his historic experience with a UFO at Malmstrom Air Force Base, said his interviewers told him they now have 'two dozen' officials working with AARO, but are trying to bring on a further 12.

The Department of Defense (DoD) issued a statement to DailyMail.com saying AARO has more than three staff, but indicated that it wouldn't reach 'full operating capacity' until next year.

'I can tell you that AARO has more than three full-time staff, but I'm not going to comment on the details,' spokeswoman Susan Gough told DailyMail.com.

'AARO is growing quickly to meet its mission and is on track to reach full operating capacity in FY2024. We will continue to work across DoD, ODNI, OMB [White House Office of Management and Budget], and with Congress, to determine appropriate funding and personnel levels.'

Bob Salas, an Air Force veteran who was interviewed by the office last week about his encounters, said his interviewers told him they now have 'two dozen' officials working with AARO, but are trying to bring on a further 12

Salas was interviewed about his historic experience with an orange UFO at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana (pictured)

Department of Defense disclosures say that as late as November 2021, a previous incarnation of the office only 'consisted of one person'.

Since then it has gone through two name changes, moved departments, and still only has a handful of staff members, the sources close to the office told DailyMail.com.

One source said that military branches and intelligence agencies are now required to have staff who work with AARO, but that the process of building up the team is slow.

'That takes some time as personnel actions always do, but that should be happening and considerably remedy the personnel shortage. Sean is also waiting for the ODNI to appoint a Deputy for example,' the source said.

'AARO needs RDTE [research, development, test and evaluation] money to integrate and assess technical data as well as dedicated sensors for surveillance in areas of special interest or activity.

'They likely could use some contractor support as well to help with some of the tasks assigned by Congress to include developing the science plan and collection plan.'

The UFO office already faces a giant workload with few employees.

Last week Senator Marco Rubio claimed UFOs have been 'operating over restricted US airspace for years' amid a slew of sightings over the US and Canada

Several UFOs were shot down over Alaska, Michigan and the Yukon this month

Last year's annual military spending bill, signed into law by President Joe Biden on December 27, 2021, required AARO to 'standardize the collection, reporting, and analysis of incidents', establish 'procedures to require the timely and consistent reporting of such incidents' and 'links between unidentified aerial phenomena and adversarial foreign governments'.

The law says top officials must 'ensure that each line organization  has adequate personnel with the requisite expertise, equipment, transportation, and other resources necessary to respond rapidly to incidents or patterns of observations involving unidentified aerial phenomena of which the Office becomes aware.'

The wording of the legislation suggests AARO may be assembling a team that investigates UFO incidents on the ground as they happen  conjuring images of the X-Files' Mulder and Scully or Men In Black's Agent K and Agent J.

Lue Elizondo quit the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP) in 2017, citing in his resignation letter the failure by the DoD to take seriously incursions on US airspace by unidentified objects

It says AARO must 'rapidly respond to, and conduct field investigations of, incidents involving unidentified aerial phenomena under the direction of the head of the Office.'

AARO is also required to conduct a review of all UFO records dating back to 1945 and come up with a 'science plan' to collect experts' theories on how some of the more extraordinary objects might operate  including infamous 'tic tacs' caught on camera by Navy pilots in 2004 and 2015, allegedly flying at thousands of miles per hour with no visible means of propulsion.

The UFO office has been through several fraught reincarnations in the past 15 years, with an increasingly inscrutable alphabet soup of names.

In 2008 late Nevada Senator Harry Reid wrangled $22 million for a program called the Advanced Aerospace Weapon System Applications Program (AAWSAP).

After funding ended and the program folded around 2012, a new program run out of the Office of the Undersecretary for Defense for Intelligence by Lue Elizondo was started, called the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP).

Elizondo quit in 2017, citing in his resignation letter the failure by the DoD to take seriously incursions on US airspace by unidentified objects, some exhibiting incredible capabilities of speed and agility.

The Pentagon then set up the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force, which was renamed on November 23, 2021 as the Airborne Object Identification and Management Synchronization Group (AOIMSG).

Danny Sheehan, a lawyer who runs a nonprofit advocating for the government to be more transparent about UFOs, said an official close to that program was 'complaining' to him as recently as May 2022 that they 'don't have any staff or employee funding'.

'Up to that point, they only had one staff person,' Sheehan told DailyMail.com.

'They had not even designated Sean to be the director until days before the hearing,' he added, referring to the historic House Intelligence Committee hearing on UFOs held on May 17, 2022  the first public congressional hearing on the topic in over 50 years.

Finally, under the orders of the 2022 military spending bill, AOIMSG was replaced by AARO in June last year.

In May, the House Intelligence Committee held its first public hearing on UFOs in 54 years where panel members grilled Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence Scott Bray (left) and Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Ronald Moultrie (right)

Prolific UFO researcher John Greenewald Jr. used the Freedom of Information Act to request all records on AOIMSG the day it was set up.

In a response letter dated October 3, 2022, the DoD told him his 'previous request was submitted when the office consisted of one person', but that it was now 'currently a fully staffed office' with 'hundreds of files, photos, and videos being analyzed'.

To complicate matters even more, this month the White House announced it was setting up its own office to tackle UFO incidents.

Former top military intelligence official Christopher Mellon, who was involved with previous UFO investigation programs, told DailyMail.com the White House group could help bring more attention to the worrying incidents.

'It's a tremendous boost for efforts to at long last get serious about identifying UAP and securing US airspace,' he said.

'I'm sure AARO will continue to play a useful and distinct role pursuant to its mandate from Congress. Some of its roles will be subsumed by this new and a more powerful White House group but it still has unique responsibilities to include reviewing historical documentation and claims regarding alleged programs that may not have been authorized by Congress.

'I think both outfits will have plenty to do for the foreseeable future. This is a major overdue breakthrough and some vital insights are likely in store.'
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Side by side, wearing matching hunting gear and with Bubba, their yellow Labrador, never out of arm's reach, these never-before-seen pictures give a glimpse into the seemingly golden life that the Murdaugh family once enjoyed.

Their smiles are broad as, in one, Maggie, 52, a flash of decorative pink on her vest, sits alongside her younger son Paul, 22, husband Alex, 54, and older son Buster, 26.

This picture was taken only a couple of years before Maggie and Paul were both brutally gunned down by the kennels on the very property where they once so happily posed.

DailyMail.com has uncovered never-before-seen photos of the Murdaugh family in happier times. The family are seated on a log in matching hunting gear and with their yellow Labrador, Bubba

Maggie stands next to her husband, the man who is accused of killing her, bundled in a jacket, scarf and gloves. Murdaugh wears only a light hunting jacket while their sons and dog are nearby

Paul, who was killed in 2021, is pictured sitting in a boat with Bubba by his side and dead ducks flopped over its edge

Last week, Murdaugh took the stand to defend himself as he stands trial for the heinous murders. Maggie was shot five times with a semi-automatic rifle, Paul blasted twice with a shotgun.

As Murdaugh spoke he painted the picture of a family that was as 'close as could be'  as close as these pictures suggest.

He described the land around Moselle, the Islandton, South Carolina, home whose property straddles Hampton and Colleton County, as his youngest son's 'passion.'

Paul, whom Murdaugh called PauPau or Paul Terry, spent some of his final hours driving round the property with his father in his older brother's truck.

According to Murdaugh they drove to the dove field where they spoke about replanting sunflowers and they spent time by the duck pond, where Paul had planted corn and where the whole family can be seen pictured just a few years ago.

In the photograph Maggie stands next to her husband, the man who is accused of killing her, bundled in a wax jacket, scarf and gloves. Murdaugh wears only a light hunting jacket.

Murdaugh told the court that she was 'always cold', and he was 'always hot'  a side-effect he explained of his chronic opioid addiction.

But there is no indication of the troubles  the fraud, theft and addiction  in which this family was mired as they pose for this lighthearted picture taken by a family friend.

Murdaugh took the stand to defend himself at his trial for the heinous murders of his wife, who was shot five times with a semi-automatic rifle, and son Paul, who was blasted twice with a shotgun

In a black and white shot, the family poses by a tractor  a much younger Paul clutches Bubba and Buster is standing off to the right, while Alex has his arm around Maggie

Another picture features just Paul and his father. They are caught unaware of the camera, completely absorbed in studying some plans

In one of the pictures Paul can be seen sitting on an ATV alongside three friends, smiling and relaxed  among them is Nolan Tuten (left) seen clutching a can of coke. Tuten was Paul's best friend whom he spoke to multiple times a day

Murdaugh has painted the picture of family that was as 'close as could be'  as close as these pictures suggest

Paul sits in a boat with Bubba by his side. Dead ducks flop over its edge. Buster beams behind him and a clutter of duck decoys sits in the foreground.

In another shot, this one in black and white, the family poses by a tractor  a much younger Paul clutches a much younger Bubba.

Buster smiles from the opposite side of the frame while Maggie and Murdaugh take center stage, looking every inch a couple who wanted for nothing.

Group images reveal what a hub Moselle was  particularly as the site of enormously social dove hunts, where friends and family gathered to hunt, eat and drink together during the brief dove season which runs from September through December.

In one picture Murdaugh poses alongside his father, Randolph, who died three days after Maggie and Paul were killed, and his brothers Randy, 56, and John Marvin, 41.

Both Randy and John Marvin have been at Murdaugh's trial every day, sitting behind him in the public gallery.

Another picture shows Paul by himself beside beloved family dog, Bubba.

Taken a handful of years ago, Paul, then a teen, smiles at the camera in the fall sunshine.

Paul is seen among a group of boys in camo who appear to be handling birds during dove season which runs from September through December

Another picture shows a much younger Paul by himself with beloved family dog, Bubba, who was just a puppy

Bubba clearly likes to hunt just as much as his owners and is seen walking alongside Buster, who holds a shotgun

Bubba has proven key in the prosecution of the murders. Were it not for the yellow lab's habit of worrying chickens and guinea fowl the court might never have known, nor Murdaugh ever admitted, that he was down at the kennels on the night of Maggie and Paul's murders

In one picture Murdaugh poses alongside his father, Randolph, who died three days after Maggie and Paul were killed, and his brothers Randy, 56, and John Marvin, 41

Group images reveal what a hub Moselle was, where friends and family gathered to hunt, eat and drink together during the brief dove season which runs from September through certain dates in November and December

In a strange twist of fate Bubba, so often at Paul or Maggie's side, has proven key in the prosecution of their murders.

Were it not for Bubba's habit of worrying chickens and guinea fowl the court might never have known, nor Murdaugh ever admitted, that he was down at the kennels on the night of Maggie and Paul's murders.

A video made by Paul on his phone at the kennels June 7, 2021, caught Murdaugh's voice chiding Bubba in the background. It irrefutably placed him where he had repeatedly denied being in the moments before the killings.

It is impossible to see these pictures today without seeing the foreshadowing of all that would come to pass, as friends and family who posed so breezily have been recast as witnesses and victims.

In one of the pictures Paul can be seen sitting on an ATV alongside three friends, smiling and relaxed  among them is Nolan Tuten seen clutching a can of coke. Tuten was Paul's best friend whom he spoke to multiple times a day. He took the stand to testify to that close friendship ahead of Murdaugh himself being sworn in.

Another now haunting picture features just Paul and his father. They are caught unaware of the camera, completely absorbed in studying some plans; perhaps discussing planting sunflowers or corn on the property or plotting hunting paths or the position of the feeders and fruit trees that tempted deer out into the open.

Paul is only a boy, while his father is barely recognizable as the gaunt, emotionally wracked figure who took to the witness stand.
Gov. Ron DeSantis boasts that under his leadership Florida took on the 'biomedical security state' during the Covid-19 pandemic in a new memoir.

The governor dives straight into a defense of his coronavirus policies in the introduction after former President Trump used his first line of offense to try to brand DeSantis as 'shutdown Ron.'

'Power-hungry elites tried to use the coronavirus to impose an oppressive biomedical security state on America, but Florida stood as an impenetrable roadblock to such designs,' DeSantis writes in an excerpt obtained by DailyMail.com.

'The Courage to Be Free,' out Tuesday, frames Florida as the last bastion against globalist elites who have penetrated media, education, politics and the corporate world.

Gov. Ron DeSantis boasts Florida under his leadership took on the 'biomedical security state' during the Covid-19 pandemic in a new memoir

The book, believed to be a precursor to DeSantis' bid for the presidency, is out Tuesday

DeSantis writes that he recognized the 'brazen partisanship' and 'intellectual bankruptcy' of public health officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci and encouraged readers never to 'trust the experts.'

'The performance of these so-called expertsthey were wrong on the need for lockdowns, the efficacy of cloth masks, school closures, the existence of natural immunity, and the accuracy of epidemiological modelswas so dreadful that no sane person should ever trust the experts ever again.'

The governor references a 1961 address where President Dwight Eisenhower warned that public policy should not be 'taken captive' by the 'scientific-technological elite:' 'A government contract becomes virtually a substitute for intellectual curiosity,' Eisenhower warned at the time.

DeSantis alludes to the machinations of D.C. politics as well. 'The elites do not rely on winning elections to amass enough political power to implement desired policies; they rely on a vast administrative state whereby they can implement their preferred policies regardless of the outcome of elections.'

'Believing that society is best governed by experts working in unaccountable government agencies, they advance major changes to American society, in matters ranging from energy to education, through bureaucratic fiat, not popular consent.'

The governor also takes aim at private industry, a new battlefront for conservatism that long championed the free market above all.

'Wall Street banks can deny financial services to industries that clash with the vision of the anointed, such as manufacturers of firearms or contractors that provide services for immigration enforcement,' DeSantis wrote. 'This collusion represents a way for the ruling class to achieve through the economy what it could never achieve through the ballot box.'

He touts Florida's moves to prohibit ESG investing in state and local pensions and take on Big Tech and the media.

DeSantis and his team have been trading barbs with reporters over his decision to ban critical race theory and queer theory in AP African American studies in recent weeks. The College Board, in turn, stripped the course of many of the topics that had drawn the ire of DeSantis and conservatives, including purging from the reading list many Black writers focused on critical race theory, the queer experience and Black feminism.

The book is fraught with populist undertones including a section decrying the 'elites' for getting the U.S. involved in 'military adventurism without clear objectives' and 'social engineering regarding home ownership that set the foundation for a major financial crisis and the taxpayer-funded bailout of Wall Street banks.'

Freedom is worth fighting for. pic.twitter.com/ssw43UnqAu  Casey DeSantis (@CaseyDeSantis) February 27, 2023

Trump endorsed DeSantis' first race for governor in 2018, but the relationship between the pair has since soured

DeSantis won the governor's race only narrowly in 2018 after an endorsement from Trump. In 2022 he sailed to re-election by nearly 20 points

DeSantis won the gubernatorial race only narrowly in 2018 after an endorsement from Trump. In 2022 he sailed to re-election by nearly 20 points.

The Florida governor has been increasing his national profile ahead of the book's launch, appearing at law enforcement events in Philadelphia, New York City and Chicago last week.

Sources close to DeSantis have said the governor would not launch a presidential campaign before the state legislature wraps in May.

Over the weekend, a cadre of wealthy donors gathered in Palm Beach, Fla., at a fundraising event for the 44-year-old Florida governor. The three-day retreat was billed as a celebration of 'Florida's blueprint' and included a number of longtime Trump allies and donors.

A new WPA-Intelligence poll of 1,000 Republicans pegs DeSantis as the favorite at 40 percent and Trump at 31 percent in a nine-way race of nine candidates and potential candidates.

So far, Trump and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley would be DeSantis' only name-brand competition in the race. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., and former Vice President Mike Pence have traveled to the first GOP caucus state Iowa over the past two weeks, signaling they are also considering a run.
They are the haunting last known images of sex worker Kimberley McRae before her death at the hands of a Colombian business student who is now facing years in jail.

Ms McRae's badly decomposing body was found inside her Coogee flat on January 14, 2020, when a relative contacted her real estate agent over growing fears about her welfare.

Hector Enrique Valencia Valencia, 23, stood trial in the NSW Supreme Court over her killing earlier this month.

He admitted to punching the 69-year-old and during an altercation placing a cord on her neck until she stopped moving, later telling his trial he 'probably' watched her die.

CCTV cameras captured Kimberley McRae mailing a book to a friend

Pictured is a screengrab of CCTV footage of the last known sighting of Kimberley McRae at the Bondi Junction Post Office on January 7, 2020, the day before she was killed

Kimberley McRae's badly decomposing body was found inside her Coogee flat on January 14, 2020, when a relative contacted her real estate agent over growing fears about her welfare

During his evidence, Valencia said he had become upset after learning McRae was transgender, and punched her in the face and stomach, initiating the fatal altercation which led to her death.

On Friday, Justice Dina Yehia found Valencia not guilty of murder but guilty of the alternate charge of manslaughter.

She said it had not been proven beyond a reasonable doubt that he intended to kill or cause really serious injury as he wrestled with her inside her darkly lit Mount St apartment.

Her final moments

The day before she was killed by Valencia and her body left underneath a doona cover, she was captured on CCTV at a Bondi Junction post office.

The images are the last known pictures of the well-known Coogee personality and author.

During her verdict handed down on Friday afternoon, Justice Yehia said while Ms McRae was transgender and a sex worker, no judgement was made about her lifestyle.

'It should be clearly understood that Kimberley McRae was entitled to live her life as she wanted,' Justice Yehia said.

She added Ms McRae had a twin sister, and was a beloved family member and a friend to many.

Ms McRae lived alone at the Mount Street unit and published a memoir under the pen name of Isabella Lawson in December 2018.

She was a self-employed sex worker and advertised her services under the names 'Sabrina', 'Samantha', 'Caitlyn' and 'Isabella'.

On the afternoon of January 7, 2020, she went to a post office at Bondi Junction to post a book to her friend.

CCTV cameras captured her walking into the store at 4.46pm and speaking to a post office worker before departing.

They are the last known images of her before her death about 24 hours later.

Hector Enrique Valencia Valencia, 23, stood trial in the NSW Supreme Court over her killing earlier this month and on Friday was found not guilty of murder, but guilty of manslaughter

Hector Enrique Valencia Valencia arrived in Australia on a student visa in May 2019

'Can I touch you down there?'

Hector Enrique Valencia Valencia arrived in Australia on a student visa in May 2019.

While in Australia he rented a room at a townhouse in Matraville for $200 a week, worked at a Little Bay cafe and attended a business college two evenings a week.

On the afternoon of January 8, 2020, Valencia texted Ms McRae after seeing one of her advertisements on an online classifieds website.

In her advertisement, Ms McRae did not state that she was transgender and described herself as a 38-year-old 'blonde Australian busty MILF with G-Cup breasts'.

'Hmmm im (sic) sorry but I want to do oral sex :(.... Let me think,' Valencia wrote to her at 2.49pm.

After asking for a pic, he wrote six minutes later: 'Ok ok I agree. Kust (sic) last question. Can I touch you down there?'

After being given Ms McRae's address, he was told to call her when he arrived.

The last outgoing call on Ms McRae's phone was to Valencia's number at 3.35pm and he left her home at 4.15pm.

CCTV footage from Matraville captured Hector Valencia Valencia on his scooter on the afternoon of January 8, 2020, hours before he killed Kimberley McRae

Anger and panic

What happened inside Ms McRae's Mount Street apartment in those 40 minutes has been pieced together through both forensic and Valencia's evidence.

The court heard Ms McRae's apartment was kept dark - she had blackout curtains and her light switches were covered in duct tape.

After arriving, he was told to go into the bedroom, get naked, and lie on the bed.

He paid Ms McRae $100 for oral sex and afterwards became 'suspicious' about her gender.

He repeatedly asked her about her gender and after asking her in a raised voice, she said that she was transgender.

Valencia said during his testimony that he became 'upset' because it was against his religious beliefs.

'He agreed in cross examination that when he found out Kimberley McRae was transgender that he was angry,' Justice Yehia said.

'Fuelled by that anger, he punched her in the stomach and face.'

Ms McRae armed herself with a nearby lamp and struck Valencia on the shoulder and they fell to the floor as they wrestled for control of the object.

Valencia said at this moment he was 'scared' that she would choke him and during the altercation, he took the cord of the lamp with both hands and pressed it down on her neck.

In his evidence, Valencia said he 'probably' watched her die and held the cord over her neck for 'a few seconds'.

CCTV oshows Hector Valencia Valencia as he entered Eve College, Surry Hills on the afternoon of January 8, 2020

'I threw my life away dude'

When Valencia returned home after classes, he told his landlord he had been out looking for jobs.

The next day he sold his scooter via Facebook marketplace for $2000.

On January 10, he used his landlord's stolen credit card to book a flight back to Colombia for $2100 however missed his flight.

At a Flight Centre at Sydney airport he booked another one-way ticket for the next day and took a multi-stop flight to Bogota.

Before he departed, he had a conversation with a friend via Facebook messenger, according to the statement of agreed facts.

'Dude you are one of the few I can trust,' Valencia said.

'And the truth is that tomorrow I am travelling to Colombia.

'I was going to travel today but I lost my flight and before that I dropped some nuggets.'

The friend replied: 'Uff... Sudden change?'

Valencia's reply said: 'I threw my life away dude. I am escaping because I do not want to finish in jail in Australia.'

CCTV footage shows Hector Valencia Valencia at Sydney Airport on January 11, 2020 as he left Australia three days after killing Kimberley McRae

Hector Valencia Valencia left Australia in January 2020 but was extradited back later that year

He added that he was 'desperate and wanted to die' and was 'still in shock'.

When his friend asked what he had done, he wrote: 'It is that I die of shame to tell this to anybody.'

'I believe I killed a whore,' he confessed.

He added that he needed to flee to Colombia 'before they catch me' and that 'I am not able to face my family after this.'

'I hope to see you one day... I do not know what I did with my life.'

Valencia flew out of Sydney on LATAM Airlines flight LA802 at 10.18am on January 11.

Hector Enrique Valencia Valencia paid Ms McRae $100 for oral sex and afterwards became 'suspicious' about her gender

'I could only see a foot'

Over the coming days, Kimberley McRae's family and friends became increasingly worried as they were unable to contact her.

Her twin sister contacted her real estate agent and two female property managers went to the Mount Street unit about 10am and found her front door unlocked.

'I could only see a foot, it was black and there was a blanket covering. I don't think I can go back in there,' one of the women said during a frantic triple-0 call.

'I don't think she was awake. I think it's been some time. There's a smell.'

Her body was discovered next to a black lamp, which had a broken cord, and a discarded used condom inside a paper towel nearby.

Three of her phones had been thrown in the toilet by Valencia.

A warrant was issued for Valencia's arrest in February 2020 and he was arrested a little over a fortnight later in Aruba.

In November that year, he was extradited back to Sydney under police guard.

Homicide Squad detectives escorted Hector Valencia Valencia back to Australia under police guard

Intention to kill

Valencia faced trial in the NSW Supreme Court earlier this month where he pleaded not guilty to murder and guilty to manslaughter, though the plea to the lesser charges was not accepted by prosecutors.

It was not in issue whether he had killed Ms McRae, with the trial focusing on whether he had an 'intention' to kill or cause really serious injury when he pressed the cord against her neck.

Judge Yehia said that in the 'intervening period' after punching Ms McRae and before pressing the cord on her neck, he was scared and panicked during the struggle.

Justice Yehia said she was satisfied that Ms McRae died due to asphyxiation caused by 'neck compression'.

She pointed to several key pieces of forensic evidence in finding Valencia not guilty of murder.

In particular, that a person could be rendered unconscious in a matter of seconds.

As well, the trial heard that Ms McRae underwent surgery to thin her Adam's apple, which could have made her larynx more vulnerable to fracture.

She added that Valencia's version of events was not inconsistent with the forensic experts who gave evidence during the trial.

Valencia will return to court in May where he will face a sentence hearing before learning his fate at a later date.
Australia's first convicted terrorist leader could be released from jail within months.

Abdul Nacer Benbrika, 60, has spent the last 18 years behind bars in a Victorian prison but could be back out on the streets as soon as November.

Benbrika plotted to blow up the MCG on Grand Final Day and carry out terrorist attacks in Melbourne and Sydney and assassinate then-Prime Minister John Howard.

He was charged in 2005 and then given a 15-year jail term in 2009 before his sentence expired in 2020.

Benbrika was then held back for another three years due to a post-detention order after fears were raised he would re-offend if he was released from jail.

Australia's first convicted terrorist leader could be released from jail within months

The Commonwealth is now seeking to place him on an extended supervision order with an application to be made as early as Monday.

Extended supervision orders are usually given to inmates once they leave jail indicating that authorities are preparing to release Benbrika back into society.

The orders were introduced in 2021 and granted power to authorities to maintain close supervision of high-risk terrorism offenders, The Australian reported.

Benbrika will be monitored 24 hours a day with his telephone, online activity, friends and movements closely watched by police.

He will also need to attend deradicalisation programs as part of the strict supervision order.

Benbrika was deemed an ongoing threat and detained for another three years based on a terrorism assessment tool known as VERA-2R.

VERA-2R is short for Violent Extremism Risk Assessment and it has been used by counter-terrorism experts and psychologists to assess convicted terrorists.

Home Affairs has described it as a valuable method of determining whether a convicted terrorist is still considered to be a risk on their release.

The method has sparked criticism with concerns raised it could be used to jail someone without them having to commit a crime.

Leading academic Emily Corner was commissioned to make a report on the method before handing it to Home Affairs in May 2020.

Independent National Security Legislation Monitor Grant Donaldson SC said there were some serious concerns about its 'validity and reliability'.

Benbrika plotted to blow up the MCG on Grand Final Day and carry out terrorist attacks in Melbourne and Sydney and assassinate then-Prime Minister John Howard (stock image)

Benbrika's lawyers have questioned the validity of the tool and have started legal action in a bid to get their client released from prison.

Benbrika completed his 15-year sentence on November 5, 2020 but was kept in custody after the Victorian Supreme Court found he still held extremist views and had a high risk of reoffending.

Benbrika had appealed to the High Court, where his lawyers argued the law was punishing him for what he hypothetically could do, not what he had done.

Victorian Judge Andrew Tinney said Benbrika had received visits in jail from people who then went and fought overseas.

'If the defendant had been visited by one seemingly problematic person many years ago, that would be one thing,' he said, the ABC reports.

'But he was visited by 15 problematic individuals over some years from the time of his incarceration.'

The Algerian-born terrorist who arrived in Australian in 1989, became the country's first convicted terrorist leader.

Benbrika once said his group of followers needed to kill at least 1,000 non-believers to make the Australian government withdraw troops from Iraq and Afghanistan.

In police recordings from 2005, Benrika was heard telling followers: 'If we want to die for jihad, we have to have maximum damage. Maximum damage. Damage their buildings, everything. Damage their lives'.

The Australian government cancelled Benbrika's citizenship in 2020.

Then-Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton said Benbrika would be sent back to Algeria once he is released.
A young boy fighting a rare genetic disorder will finally receive his bone marrow transplant after it was mistakenly left on the tarmac of a US airport - but his biggest battle is yet to come.

Mateoh Eggleton, aged six from the Gold Coast, was diagnosed with chronic granulomatous disease in 2019, meaning his white blood cells were unable to fight off certain types of bacteria.

The little boy underwent a transplant for the disease which was successful but the treatment resulted in him being diagnosed with a rare but more severe condition known as haemolytic uraemic syndrome - which can lead to kidney failure.

The family found a donor in America but the much-needed cells were abandoned at a US airport last week enroute to Brisbane, causing disbelief among family members.

The transplant finally arrived in Australia on Friday with Mateoh to start preparation for the surgery on Thursday with the procedure expected to take place ten days later.

Mateoh's mother Shalyn said while it was a relief the cells had arrived and were still viable, the process of receiving the transplant would be her son's toughest fight.

Mateoh Eggleton (pictured with mum Shalyn) will undergo a bone marrow transplant after being diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening genetic condition

'This is our last option for treatment,' Ms Eggleton told the Today Show on Monday morning.

'Mateoh's a bit nervous as you would be, this will be our toughest (step).'

The mother revealed it was unclear how Mateoh would respond to the transplant and how successful it would be.

'This transplant being our last option to trial, we actually don't know if it's going to take or not take,' she said.

'We don't know how sick Mateoh's going to get. We just don't know how it's going to go and that's where my biggest nerves are at the moment.'

Mateoh's first transplant for granulomatous disease saw the little boy be in and out of the intensive care unit.

For this transplant, Ms Eggleton said it's likely he'll be in hospital for at least 100 days.

The little boy's much-needed cells had been mistakenly left on the tarmac at a US airport. They've since arrived in Australia and are still viable

The mother said the transplant was Mateoh's last chance, with the six-year-old previously undergoing gruelling chemotherapy and blood transfusions to keep him alive

The family was initially told by staff at the Queensland Children's Hospital that the transplant had never arrived.

The Australian Bone Marrow Donor Registry (ABMDR) is responsible for arranging and transporting bone marrow and blood stem cell donations for patients in need of a transplant in Australia.

A spokesperson for the hospital told Daily Mail Australia the delay of Mateoh's bone marrow transplant would not 'adversely impact Mateoh's care'.

'Mateoh has been a long-term patient at the Queensland Children's Hospital and his care team understands and shares the family's disappointment at this unforeseen delay in the delivery of his donor cells,' they said.

Ms Eggleton said while she spoke to the CEO of the ABMDR, she still hadn't received any clear answers as to why the transplant was left unattended.

'We're waiting for an investigation to be carried out. I've been told it was delivered to the airport and put in a specialised area and it was not put on the plane from that specialised area,' she said.

'Why it was left unattended, we do not have answers for. It should never have happened to begin with ... it's unacceptable what happened.'

An earlier donor had been found for Mateoh from the UK but they declined the transplant.

The six-year-old has undergone nine different types of treatment for his condition within the past 18 months.
One mystery Australian has $544million in their account

Millions of Aussies inching closer and closer to retirement are petrified about their super balance - but one mystery Australian with a staggering $544million in their account has nothing to worry about.

Data from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) listed the nation's top super balances as of 2019 revealing 411,128 people had more than $1million sitting in their super funds.

The average Australian has a super balance of around $150,000.

According to the data, about 400,000 Australians had between $1million and $2million in their super funds while 100 people had more than $50million.

The number of Australians in each super fund bracket was whittled down by the ATO until it hit $544million with a single mysterious person listed as the one with the hefty account balance.

The graph showed a total of 411,128 superannuation funds with a balance of more than $1million. One superannuation fund amassed an astonishing $544million (pictured)

Social media users speculated as to which wealthy Aussie was behind the huge account, with many suggesting it was Australia's richest person and mining tycoon Gina Rinehart (left). Others believe co-founder of Atlassian Mike Cannon-Brookes (right) is behind the fund

Social media users were thrown into a spin at the huge figure with many wondering which wealthy Aussie could be behind the mammoth account.

Some suggested Australia's richest person and mining tycoon Gina Rinehart was the face behind the fund.

Others claimed the account belonged to Australia's seventh richest person Clive Palmer.

More names were tossed about including executive chairman of Harvey Norman Holdings Gerry Harvey, former ASX 300 richest executive Kerry Stokes, CEO of Qantas Airways Alan Joyce and co-founder of Atlassian Mike Cannon-Brookes.

'There is quite a few candidates. There are 49 billionaires in Australia according to Forbes,' one person wrote.

'I'd love to know how much "said person" believes he/she needs to be able to enjoy their retirement?,' another commented.

'Somebody has been making coffee at home and avoiding the avo toast,' a third person joked.

It comes after the Federal Government announced plans to change the superannuation system, making it more difficult for Australians to withdraw their super before retirement

It comes after the Federal Government proposed a superannuation shake-up, which would make it more difficult for Australians to withdraw their super early and impose a higher tax on multi-million dollar accounts.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers on February 20 declared a crackdown on early super access after the pandemic 'debacle'.

Former prime minister Scott Morrison's Coalition government allowed workers to raid up to $20,000 from their super - via two $10,000 instalments in 2020 - during the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers (pictured with wife Laura) revealed plans to review superannuation tax perks available to high-income earners

Outside of the pandemic, early release super is only allowed in very limited circumstances, including if someone is permanently incapacitated.

This is known as a 'disability super benefit'.

A super fund must be satisfied someone has a permanent physical or mental medical impairment that is likely to stop this individual from ever working again for a job they were qualified to do.

Mr Chalmers also revealed plans to review superannuation tax perks with a focus on funds with more than $3million - which is less than one per cent of taxpayers.

He wants to scrap laws that allow workers to be able to deposit up to $27,500 into their super each financial year at a low rate of 15 per cent, if they earn up to $250,000.

The current regime means high-income earners on $180,000 are taxed much less than their income tax rate of 45 per cent.
By Bahk Eun-ji





Song Kyungjin, executive director of the Innovative Economy Forum, will attend the 8th Raisina Dialogue, a flagship global strategic conference of the Narendra Modi administration, on March 2-4, in New Delhi, India.







This year's Raisina Dialogue is being held immediately after the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting between March 1 and 2 in New Delhi to maximize its input to the G20 summit this year. India has assumed the presidency of this year's G20 summit.







Song is invited to speak at a session on "The Emerging Consensus: G20 and the Development Imperative" on March 3 together with Mauro Vieira, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Brazil); Naledi Pador, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (South Africa); Alan Ganoo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauritius; and Ambassaor Elisabetta Belloni (Italy).







The speakers will discuss the rationale for the G20 to engage in the issue of development, the role of international financial institutions in addressing the needs of emerging economies and ways to avoid disputes between developed and developing countries that have constrained multilateral forums.







Song will also speak at the "G20 Global Research Forum," an Indian G20 initiative, about the digital transformation for inclusive growth and digital public infrastructure. She will also engage in discussions on some of the main G20 priorities such as green transition, sustainable development goals and gender issues.






A Georgia couple nearly lost their lives while on their first date after they slipped off a waterfall while on a hike.

Jordan Bennett and Zania Robinson were hiking DeSoto Falls in Georgia when they ended up caught in a storm in August.

The couple fell from the top of the waterfall, approximately 120 feet, and were forced to hike 30 minutes while injured, Robinson with extensive wounds on her face and Bennett with two fractured shoulders.

The couple was able to recover by each other's side and have since developed a strong relationship and say they are forever bonded.

Shockingly, the fall also may have saved Bennett's life as doctors discovered stomach cancer as he was recovering, which he is now receiving treatment for.

Jordan Bennett and Zania Robinson were hiking DeSoto Falls in Georgia when they ended up caught in a storm in August and fell from a waterfall

The couple was able to recover by each other's side and have since developed a strong relationship and say they are forever bonded

According to Bennet and Robinson, the terrifying first date has now put them on the path to lasting love.

The pair spoke with WXIA and described the life-altering event.

'We took pictures, had our first kiss up there. It was a moment,' said Robinson.

After they kissed, however, things turned messy as the storm moved in and they began to slip.

'Without hesitation, it was just like, go get her. Instinct,' said Bennett.

The couple fell and were seriously injured. Far from civilization, they were forced to hike 30 minutes back to get help.

'I kept telling her, repeat after me. "You're brave, you're strong, you've got this,"' said Bennett, recalling the fateful day.

Eventually, they were able to reach the emergency room and were rushed in for their injuries.

Robinson's extensive facial injuries caused her to worry that Bennett would no longer be interested in her.

'I felt ugly. I didn't like what I looked like anymore. I didn't think he would like me,' said Robinson.

That could not have been further from what happened, though, as he immediately asked her to be his girlfriend when they were able to see each other again.

'She said, "how do I look?" I said, "You look beautiful." Just seeing her that way, it built a bond that won't ever be broken,' said Jordan.

Robinson was in critical condition when they got to the hospital and had extensive injuries to her face

Bennett fractured both of his shoulders in the major fall from the waterfall

Robinson's facial injuries caused her to worry that Bennett would no longer be interested in her, but he asked her to be his girlfriend when they were able to see each other again

The couple is now forever

But as Robinson improved from her injuries, Bennett continued to get worse.

The man's mother, Lori Chafin, told WXIA her son was seeing no progress at all.

'He had lost a lot of weight, it was falling off of him. He didn't have much of an appetite,' said Chafin.

Doctors thought Bennett may have ruptured his esophagus in the fall but the news was much worse.

'The call came in -- they diagnosed it with advanced stage 3 stomach cancer,' said Bennett.

Despite the diagnosis, the Georgia man said he believes it was the fall itself that is responsible for helping him catch the cancer.

His family, and Robinson, are now sticking by his side through the battle.

'It's your baby, of course it's hard. I can't help him. I can be there and help with everything else, but I can't take it from him. And that is hard,' said Chafin.

'I remember Jordan saying, "you're strong, you're brave, and you got this." And that really stuck with me,' said Robinson, telling the local outlet they now use the words as their own person mantra.

Robinson and Bennett are now committed to fighting the new challenge, a stomach cancer diagnosis for Bennett, together

Despite the cancer diagnosis, the Bennett said he believes it was the fall itself that is responsible for helping him catch the cancer

Bennett's mom, Lori Chafin, has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for his hospital bills and other expenses related to the cancer diagnosis and the fall

'She does say it all the time, that I'm strong, and I got this. This is your fight,' he said.

Bennett will undergo surgery to remove his stomach in March and doctors will attach his esophagus to his small intestine.

He will be on a feeding tube for the next six to eight months but he is ready to fight with Robinson by his side.

GoFundMe pages for Bennett and Robinson respectively have been started.
A priceless one-of-a-kind art installation has been damaged after a partygoer accidentally fell on it during cocktails at one of Australia's most prestigious museums.

The piece - the Sydney Museum of Contemporary Art's biggest drawcard when it opened - is titled Hub and was part of a touring installation of works by acclaimed South Korean artist Do Ho Suh.

But an after-work private function attended by Bloomberg employees ended in disaster when an enthusiastic reveller knocked into the fabric and metal structure - a series of intricately designed doorways - and pulled down two of the doors.

'I was there with ... a guest and witnessed it. It was the main multicoloured fabric hub sculpture,' one tipster told The Aussie Corporate.

'(It) appeared to detach two "doors". Definitely going hard for a Monday night!'

Hub by Do Ho Suh (pictured) on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney is understood to have been damaged after a partygoer fell on it during a work function

The artwork features life-size recreations of entrances to homes and apartment buildings where Suh has lived in cities like New York, London and Berlin in a connected corridor

Another witness reported that 'someone drunkenly fell on and destroyed part of an exhibit'.

The Suh exhibition was the first time the acclaimed South Korean artist has held a solo exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere.

While the value of the damaged piece is unclear, having never been offered for auction, one of his pieces - titled Some/One - sold for more than USD$814,000 in 2009, equivalent to AUD$1.2million.

His Hub exhibition is made up of a series full-scale entrances to a home or apartment building Suh has lived in at different locations across the world, linked in one interconnected corridor that can be walked through.

It is created from translucent green, red, purple, pink, and orange fabric draped over a stainless steel frame - with fine details like power sockets, light switches, door handles, and hinges meticulously recreated.

Th exhibition also features other works from the artist spanning three decades including Metal Jacket, representing his experience of conscription in South Korea's army, and Staircase-III, which is on loan from the Tate Collection in the UK.

It is a one-to-one scale recreation of the narrow staircase that connected Suh's New York apartment, where he lived for twenty years, to his landlord's home - constructed in red fabric and suspended, floating down from the ceiling.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Museum of Contemporary Art and Bloomberg for comment.

Another of the acclaimed artist's works Staircase-III (pictured) is also on display in Sydney on loan from the Tate Collection

Do Ho Suh (pictured), in his 60s, is from South Korea and has exhibited work across the world with solo shows at the Boston Museum of Modern Art and the Smithsonian in Washington DC

Suh's exhibition ran from November 4, 2022 until Monday at the MCA in Sydney (pictured)

It echoes an incident earlier this month when a collector visiting a contemporary art fair in the United States accidentally toppled over a small glass sculpture by renowned artist Jeff Koons, shattering it to pieces.

The shiny blue sculpture, one of Koons' famous 'balloon dog' series, was valued at US$42,000.

The mishap occurred during a VIP preview at Art Wynwood in Miami, and some collectors thought it was performance art or a staged stunt.

The sculpture sat alone on an acrylic base emblazoned with Koons's surname.

'I saw this woman was there, and she was tapping (the sculpture), and then the thing fell over and shattered into thousands of pieces,' artist Stephen Gamson told a Fox News affiliate in Miami.

Gamson told reporters he thought the woman tapped on the artwork to see if it was a real balloon.

A $42,000 limited edition blue porcelain balloon dog sculpture by world-famous artist Jeff Koons has been smashed by an art collector in downtown Miami

Koon's 2004 Balloon Dog, which sold for $58.4million, is one of the many works of his which has attracted criticism

A bystander took a video as gallery employees swept up the glass shards.

'I can't believe somebody would knock that over,' a voice is heard to say on the video.

Benedicte Caluch, an art advisor with Bel-Air Fine Art, which sponsored the Koons piece, told the Miami Herald that the woman did not mean to break the piece and that insurance would cover the damage.

Koons, who was not present, is an American painter and sculptor who draws inspiration from everyday objects, including balloon animals. His works challenge notions of what is fine art, even as they have auctioned for as high as $91 million.

His balloon dog sculptures vary in size, from less than a foot (30 centimeters) in height to over 10-feet (three-meters) tall, and come in vivid colors.
Vivek Ramaswamy is calling on current and any future Republican presidential candidates to pledge to support whoever becomes the party's nominee in 2024.

The biotech millionaire and iconic anti-woke conservative who announced his candidacy this month will speak at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on the outskirts of Washington, D.C. this week.

There, Ramaswamy will detail on Saturday his 'anti-woke' presidential platform and demand that the party come together to rally behind whoever becomes the nominee in next year's election.

So far, former President Donald Trump and his former Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley have officially announced their candidacy for president.

Ramaswamy said that he will support whoever voters decide they want to nominate as their presidential candidate for 2024  and he is challenging his rivals to commit to the same thing.

'Today I commit to supporting any eventual GOP nominee who adopts the Anti-Woke Policy Pledge, and I'm calling on President Trump, Nikki Haley and every potential GOP candidate to pledge the same to ensure that we win in 2024,' Ramaswamy said in a statement on Monday.

Presidential Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is calling on current and future GOP primary contenders to commit to supporting whoever becomes the eventual nominee

The pledge echoes what the Republican National Committee (RNC) is proposing as a requirement for candidates to be able to participate in their primary debates.

RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel says that to be able to get on the debate stage, candidates will need to sign a pledge that they will support the eventual candidate.

She insists that Donald Trump would sign this pledge despite doubts from within the party.

Ramaswamy claims that 2023 is the time for candidates to detail what they see for the future of America.

Next year, the candidate says, voters can decide who is best to carry out that vision.

'I am in this for the long haul: we will run a race that takes us all the way to the White House,' Ramaswamy said. 'I'm not a professional politician, and I couldn't care less about the GOP party machinery. But for the sake of the country, I think it's important for the GOP to unite around a vision to defeat wokeness and to revive American excellence.'

Ramaswamy shared with DailyMail.com during an interview in Iowa last week that part of his official platform for 2024 is putting an end to affirmative action, punishing private companies for censoring political speech and making political expression a civil right.

'I'm all-in for America First, but to put America first, we need to rediscover what America is. Our party needs to stop obsessing over the question of the 'who,' and focus first on the 'what' and the 'why.' If we clearly define a pro-American agenda, we win 2024 in a landslide,' Ramaswamy said in a statement on his upcoming CPAC speech.

'I challenge every GOP candidate to join me in committing to the Anti-Woke Policy Pledge,' he added. 'Every serious GOP contender should be prepared to make and abide by these commitments, without hesitation or apology.'

His pledge includes shutting down the U.S. Department of Education and using the U.S. Military to address the southern border crisis by sending them into Mexico to 'eliminate drug cartels.'

Ronna McDaniel assured that Trump will agree to sign a pledge supporting whichever candidate wins the 2024 GOP primary election in their race for the White House.

RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said she expects former President Donald Trump to sign a pledge vowing to support whoever becomes the GOP nominee in 2024

She made the comment while also demanding that her party turn its focus onto beating President Joe Biden and the Democrats rather than in-house fighting other members of the Republican Party.

'I think they're all going to sign it,' the chairwoman told CNN's State of the Union host Dana Bash on Sunday morning when asked if Trump would sign an eventual pledge.

This umbrella comment does not mention any specific candidates, but makes the assumption that Trump would put his support behind someone that could beat him in the primary elections  like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

So far, DeSantis appears to be the only GOP candidate who could oust Trump as head of the party.

McDaniel is preparing to put forward a pledge requiring all candidates who want to participate in GOP-sponsored debates agree to support whoever wins the nomination.

Everyone, including Trump, signed the pledge in 2016, she said.

McDaniel recently won her reelection bid for RNC chairwoman, but the election got heated and resulted in a series of damning attacks on her record.

'I ran on a unity platform and about bringing the party together,' McDaniel said. 'And we can't be so vicious and vitriolic with each other that we don't want to support each other in the end. And I chose to run that way. It won.'

She said her reelection was a 'symbol' that the Republican Party is dedicated to unity.

McDaniel defeated her main challenger, RNC California national committeewoman Harmeet Dhillon, by a vote of 111 committee members to 51.

MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell received just four votes.

'We can't be attacking each other so much that we lose sight of, we have to beat the Democrats,' McDaniel insisted.

'We have to beat Joe Biden in 2024. And we may have divisive primaries and differences of opinions, but, in the end, we have to settle those to win the big picture, which is governing our country and doing the right thing by the American people.'

The GOP has denounced the Commission on Presidential Debates, claiming it is a partisan group not committed to treating candidates fairly  especially those on the Republican side.

Rather, the party will hold its own debates, but is making candidates who want to participate sign a pledge that they will fully endorse and back the eventual Republican nominee for president.

McDaniel called the potential proposal a 'no-brainer.'

To participate in RNC debates, candidates will need to sign a pledge that they will back the eventual nominee

This means that even if Trump loses to 'disloyal' Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who has not yet launched a White House bid, he would need to vow to support him in the 2024 election against whoever is the Democrat nominee

Some shared doubts, however, that Trump would agree to do this should he not earn the nomination.

'If you're going to be on the Republican National Committee debate stage asking voters to support you, you should say, 'I'm going to support the voters and who they choose as the nominee,' she said.

'As RNC chair, if I said I wouldn't support the Republican nominee, I would be removed from office. I would. I'd be rightly removed,' she added. 'It'd be part of our bylaws, and I would be kicked out as RNC chair.'

'Anybody getting on the Republican National Committee debate stage should be able to say, 'I will support the will of the voters and the eventual nominee of our party.'

When asked if she thinks Trump would sign the pledge, McDaniel said: 'Well, he signed it in 2016. Everybody signed it in 2016.'

'But this is about the here and the now. He didn't commit to it,' Bash pushed.

'Yes, I think they're all going to sign it. I really do,' she speculated.

'I think the voters are very intent on winning,' McDaniel added. 'And they do not want to see a debate stage of people saying, 'I'm not going to support this guy.' What they need to say is, 'I'm going to do everything I can to defeat Joe Biden.' And that means supporting the nominee of the Republican Party.'
The law would partially undermine the city's noted Sanctuary status and has caused upset among woke public defenders and officials

A public defender in San Francisco is pushing back on a newly proposed law that would target illegal immigrants convicted of selling fentanyl for deportation.

The law was proposed last week by Supervisor Matt Dorsey, who is himself a drug and alcohol addict in recovery, who says the law would be a 'hard line' against the individuals selling the addictive synthetic opioid that has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans.

Peter Calloway, a public defender in San Francisco, recently took a public stance against the new policy when he tweeted: 'Supervisor Matt Dorsey seeks to end the city's Sanctuary City policy for ppl accused of dealing fentanyl. Keep in mind that many such ppl deal under threat of violence to them/their families.'

His resistance follows the progressive bent of recalled San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin, who said that perhaps as many as 50 percent of drug dealers in SF are illegal Honduran migrants, many of whom were trafficked and depend on the money they make from peddling deadly narcotics to pay off the traffickers who got them to the US.

'Ultimately, coming here and selling fentanyl on the streets is not the immigrant experience that we are trying to honor and affirm,' said Dorsey. 'If you take a look at the things for which sanctuary already doesnt apply, fentanyl dealing belongs there.'

San Francisco Public Defender Peter Calloway who favors a system in which illegal fentanyl dealers are not reported to ICE

San Francisco has been experiencing an ongoing crisis of fentanyl and drug addiction on its streets for years

City Supervisor Matt Dorsey recently proposed a law under which illegal fentanyl dealers are flagged to ICE, which would undermine the city's famed Sanctuary status

Popular Twitter voice and San Francisco-based businesswoman Michelle Tandler mocked Calloway's complaints about the freshly proposed policy: 'Won't somebody think of the Fentanyl dealers?!'

'This is the viewpoint of many progressive defenders in San Francisco, including our former DA,' she wrote. 'Apparently our sanctuary city policies keep us from deporting felons.'

Her own comment section as well as Calloway's appeared to side with her.

'How dare they?!?!? We must protect the fentanyl dealers at all costs! ESPECIALLY if they are here illegally. You people blow,' wrote one user whose profile describes him as a 'San Franciscan, who loves the city minus the leadership.'

'What, you mean the criminal justice system is going to be used to protect San Francians from the purveyors of lethal drugs that are killing our down and out brothers and sisters?' wrote Harvey B.

Changing slightly the parameters of the city's sanctuary law, which generally prohibits SF authorities from notifying ICE that the city is releasing from jail an individual who the federal agency wishes to deport, would mean adults who are newly charged with fentanyl-dealing will be flagged to ICE.

The policy would add another carveout to a growing list of serious or violent crimes after which authorities are allowed to flag to ICE that someone they are in pursuit of is being released from jail.

The list currently includes: murder, rape, robbery, arson and carjacking.

The proposed policy would add fentanyl dealing to that list, if the dealer in question had also previously been arrested inside of the last seven years for the same crime.

Dorsey has said he is prepared for the proposal to 'raise eyebrows' among the progressive political class of the notoriously woke city, but argued that it is a 'narrow and common-sense exception' to the city's sanctuary laws.

The drug crisis in San Francisco surged during COVID-19 lockdowns and is showing no signs of slowing down.

Fatal overdoses are up and local law enforcement have often failed to stop dozens of local dealers from operating openly, specifically in the city's Tenderloin neighborhood, which has infuriated residents and business owners.

Dorsey says the law would be a 'hard line' against the individuals selling the addictive synthetic opioid that has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans

Fentanyl has killed more than 1,400 people in SF since 2020 and the numbers are not abating

The city's open air drug markets became more apparent during COVID and show no signs of slowing down

Tandler mocked Calloway's push back to the proposal that would flag fentanyl dealers to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency

How dare they?!?!?



We must protect the fentanyl dealers at all costs! ESPECIALLY if they are here illegally.



You people blow.  patrick vvvvv (@VvvvvPatrick) February 22, 2023

Last year, Breed said that 'a lot' of the city's dealers are from Honduras, a comment for which she was made to apologize after it was branded 'xenophobic and racist' by the woke mob

Mayor London Breed, to whom Calloway has also offered robust criticism, says she wants to be aggressive about going after the individuals who pump deadly narcotics into the city's illegal drug trade.

Her goals are ultimately to reduce addiction, overdose deaths and the harm caused by open-air drug markets.

In her ongoing battle against the illegal drug suppliers to her city, Breed will continue to contend with the woke voices which apparently prioritize the well-being of the dealers - especially the illegal ones - over the well-being of the city's residents.

Last year, Breed said that 'a lot' of the city's dealers are from Honduras, a comment for which she was made to apologize after it was branded 'xenophobic and racist' by the woke mob.

In addition to Calloway, SF Public Defender Mano Raju said last week that 'criminalizing the supply does nothing to stop the demand' and 'attempts to threaten or diminish our historic and long-held Sanctuary Ordinance will be met with strong opposition by our office and the immigrant rights community.

'Subjecting immigrants to double punishment and deportation is inhumane and xenophobic, and will harm immigrants who have been the victims of trafficking.'
An alarming amount of dogs are swallowing this poisonous sea creature

A vet has issued an urgent warning to pet owners after treating a spate of dogs that had eaten a coin-sized jellyfish, leaving them 'profusely' vomiting and shaking.

In what is becoming an annual plague, dozens of blue button stingers have washed up across Sunshine Coast beaches in the past week and been eaten by unsuspecting canines.

Noosa vet Divya Nemani told the ABC she had treated six dogs in just one day last Wednesday - the most she has ever seen in a single day.

'All of them came in with very, very similar clinical signs,' she told the broadcaster.

'They'd been at the beach and then 15 minutes after being at the beach, they started vomiting and then profusely vomiting.

Dogs have a tendency to interact with any strange objects they come across, which makes blue buttons (pictured) so dangerous during walks

Jan Bolton, a Peregian Beach resident, was one of those who was forced to rush her furry friend into the clinic after she saw her Spoodle, Lily, swallow the coin-sized creature during a walk.

'Lily was making this horrific howling, screaming noise when she was trying to retch,' Ms Bolton told the network.

'The vet [who] ended up giving her an antihistamine as well because she thought she might have been having an allergic reaction to it.'

Typical symptoms for a dog who's eaten a blue button include lip-licking, lethargy, excessive drooling and a fever, with some dogs developing dark mucous.

The vast number of sick dogs Dr Nemani saw last week led her to advise owners to wipe their dog's mouth with a cloth should they interact with a blue button.

If symptoms develop, Dr Nemani told owners to take their pets straight to the vet for treatment.

Local vet Divya Nemani (pictured) said her team had never treated so many blue button poisonings in a single day

An emergency animal clinic in Noosa, Queensland (pictured) has told dog owners to watch out after an extraordinary workday when six dogs were rushed in last Wednesday.

These latest cases follow a trend of dogs eating blue buttons as tropical climates, heavy tides and strong coastal winds wash countless amounts of them onto beaches each summer.

Speaking to ABC over a year ago, a nurse in Paradise Point, warned owners not to walk their dogs on beaches where they can see the jellyfish-like creatures have washed up.

'We go through seasons when there are so many down on the beaches [and] we just try and make sure that people are avoiding them, because dogs are notorious for eating anything that they can find,' Ms Nolan said at the time.

'The key is to take the dog to the vet within the first hour of them eating anything and just kind of getting on top of it as soon as possible.'
Lisa Wilkinson's notorious Logies speech is set to face fresh scrutiny as an inquiry into the prosecution of Bruce Lehrmann prepares for its first public hearing.

Wilkinson, who then hosted The Project, won a Logie in June 2022 for her interview with Brittany Higgins, the ex-Liberal party staffer who had accused Mr Lehrmann of raping her three years earlier.

Her victory speech led to Mr Lehrmann's trial being delayed by several months after Chief Justice Lucy McCallum ruled it was highly prejudicial to the case.

The rescheduled trial was evenually aborted last October due to juror misconduct.

Prosecutors later dropped the rape charge, deciding not to pursue a second trial against Mr Lehrmann over concerns about Ms Higgins' mental health.

Now, an independent inquiry into the prosecution will probe whether top prosecutor Shane Drumgold SC took proper steps to prevent jurors seeing prejudicial material, particularly once Wilkinson was nominated for the Logie, The Australian reported.

Lisa Wilkinson's notorious Logies speech is set to face fresh scrutiny as an inquiry into the prosecution of Bruce Lehrmann prepares for its first public hearing.

Following outrage over Wilkinson's victory speech, Channel 10 wrote in a letter of apology to Chief Justice McCallum that neither the presenter nor the network's legal team realised they had been cautioned in a pre-Logies meeting with Mr Drumgold.

'Neither Ms Wilkinson nor the Network Ten Senior Legal Counsel present at the conference with the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions) on June 15 2022 understood that they had been cautioned that Ms Wilkinson giving an acceptance speech at the Logie Awards could result in an application being made to the court to vacate the trial date,' the letter.

'Had they understood that a specific warning had been given, Ms Wilkinson would not have given that speech.'

Wilkinson has since stood down from on-air roles at Channel 10 and The Project refrained from commenting on the case apart from brief news updates.

The inquiry will look at how the prosecution of Bruce Lehrmann was handled, with the first hearing set for April 26

The inquiry into Mr Lehrmann's case, which will hold its first public hearing on April 26, will examine interactions between prosecutors and ACT Police.

It will also probe the decision to pursue a jury trial in the first place as well as why prosecutors did not purse a retrial.

Commissioner Walter Sofronoff, KC, has been granted specific powers to probe the 'reasons and motives' of everyone involved in the case and will examine if the DPP acted for the 'right reasons'.

Mr Lehrmann has always denied raping Ms Higgins, his former colleauge, in Parliament House in Canberra in 2019.

Both Mr Lehrmann and Ms Higgins have confirmed they will cooperate fully with the independent inquiry.
A California man nearly lost his life on a snowy highway after surviving four crashes.

As an unexpected storm batters the Golden State, James Halsey, 32, reminisced back to the snowy Big Bear highway where he nearly died near Holcomb Valley Road on Highway 18.

Halsey was on the busy highway heading back to his home when his car started to slide downhill.

'I noticed a car coming from the opposite direction so instead of going head-on to the car, I slid and I messed up [the] front tire,' Halsey told ABC 7.

While waiting for a tow truck, Halsey stepped outside of his car and within a blink of an eye found himself flying up in the air after being hit by another car.

James Halsey, 32, reminisced back to the snowy Big Bear highway where he nearly died near Holcomb Valley Road on Highway 18

Halsey was on the busy highway heading back to his home when his car started to slide downhill. He recalled the damage done to his front tire before being rammed by a car. Pictured: Halsey's car

The driver of the vehicle saw Halsey on the side of the highway and was heading to help him when the two crashed on the icy road.

'I kind of flew up in the air at some point, landed under the car,' Halsey recalled. 'I just got back up instantly and my hands were sliced up pretty bad.'

While wrapping his hands with the other driver's t-shirt, Halsey's life flashed before his eyes yet again when he was struck by a car driving uphill and pinned between two cars.

'Before the paramedics got there, another vehicle ran and hit and pinned me up,' he recalled.

Halsey was left uninjured after being stuck between the two cars and was transported to the hospital soon after by an ambulance.

Just when Halsey thought he was in the clear, another vehicle slammed into the ambulance.

Halsey said he was thrown into the air and landed under the car. He was left with an injury to his hand. While wrapping his hand and waiting for paramedics, he was then hit by another car and pinned between two

Southern California was hit with several inches of snowfall around the time Halsey got hit a few weeks ago. braces for several inches of snowfall leading into Tuesday. Frazier Park, north of Los Angeles, was hit with snow on January 30

Halsey was shaken from the four incident and recalled no other injuries. He only sustained a hand injury and was able to leave the hospital two hours later.

'God protected me through that because even the hospital was amazed at how I was still alive after all that,' Halsey said. 'I really believe I'm highly blessed and favored by God. I mean, I really believe he protected me.'

His story comes as California battles another storm with snow extending to areas at lower elevations.

The storm that hit last week brought freezing temperatures, dumped several feet of snow, caused widespread flooding and left tens of thousands of people without power.

California is not off the hook yet and is expected to experience another storm on Sunday evening.

The National Weather Service predicts weaker storms through Wednesday bringing up to an inch of rain near the coast and valley and two inches in the mountains and foothills.

More snow is also expected up to 18 inches in some areas with the highest amount predicted in the San Gabriel mountains.

California is expected to get hit with another winter storm on Sunday evening leading into Wednesday as the Golden State just experienced a multi-day storm

Another snow storm battered California over the weekend leaving behind inches of snow. A car skidded off the snowy roadway into a pond in the Sierra Pelona Mountains on Saturday

Snow hit some areas of Los Angeles and was seen on mountain peaks above Pasadena on Sunday

Much of the state is still reeling from the effects of a multi-day winter storm, which saw even a dusting of snow on the Hollywood sign and more than three feet in the northern mountains.

Videos posted online also showed RVs being swept up into Los Angeles-area rivers amid widespread flooding and sparks flying from downed powerlines.

Major highways remained closed on Sunday morning, after drivers were left stranded for hours on end.

Those roads may continue to be closed for the coming days as another storm beginning Sunday night and lasting through Wednesday brings even more rain and snow.
A high school teacher told her students Nintendo characters have different sexual and gender identities as she claimed Mario is gay while Princess Peach is a 'massive lesbian.'

Remy Elliott, who is employed by the New York City Department of Education, made the comments in a presentation to students during a Gay Straight Alliance after-school club meeting.

In a video uploaded to her TikTok account, she reshared the powerpoint, alleging Princess Daisy is 'hella bisexual, polyamorous' while Luigi is a 'demisexual dude.'

Elliott, who has over 81,000 followers and identifies as bisexual, has since deleted the videos and made her profile private.

She is certified under the name Jeremy William Elliott and currently teaches 9th grade at the DOE though previously taught younger grades, Fox News reports.

New York City Department of Education teacher Remy Elliott, pictured, gave a presentation to her students explaining the different genders and sexual identities of Nintendo characters

A screengrab from her TikTok from the presentation in which she called Princess Daisy 'hella bisexual' while Luigi was a 'demisexual dude'

'So the GSA for the school that I teach at decided to do a PowerPoint night, and I decided to combine two of my favorite interests into one,' she said in the original clips.

'This is dubiously assigning genders and sexualities to classic Nintendo characters.

'Yoshi is a trans man. He is just living his best life with Berto, and his top surgery turned out amazing.

'No scars whatsoever. We love that for him.

'Of course, that means that Berto is an ace trans girl.'

Top surgery is the removal of breast tissue as a woman transitions into a man.

She continues onto call Princess Peach a 'massive cis lesbian' with an attraction to Princess Daisy.

Meanwhile Daisy is described as 'hella bisexual, polyamorous... and she will ask out right in front of you.'

Elliott continues: 'Mario came out so long ago that most people forgot and he probably marched at Stonewall and he low-key says some transphobic stuff, but he means well.'

She adds: 'Next up is Luigi.

'Luigi is totally a demisexual dude, but he just calls himself queer because it's like too confusing.

'He has big bi-wife energy.

Mario, left, 'came out so long ago most people forgot,' while 'Princess Daisy is described as 'hella bisexual, polyamorous and she will ask out right in front of you'

Luigi, left, is identified as a 'demisexual dude' who 'just calls himself queer' while Princess Peach, right, is a 'massive cis lesbian' says Elliott

'Trans? Trans. And it's probably bisexual, but like, doesn't think about it too much because if you don't think about it, it's not a problem.'

'Demisexuality' refers to people who only feel sexual attraction to another person if they form a strong emotional bond or connection with them first.

She goes onto call Toad 'a pre-transitioned trans girl.'

'She already has a whole new wardrobe with thigh highs and skirts for when she comes out,' Elliot says in the clip.

In other clips the teacher revealed she had spoken to her school's assistant principal about how to tell her class she is polyamorous.

Polyamory refers to people who engage in multiple romantic or sexual relationships.

In one video seen by Fox News, she said she prides herself on 'being a teacher who is very open about her life.'

Toad, left, is a 'pre-transitioned trans girl,' says Elliott who has recently invested in thigh highs and skirts while Yoshi is described as a trans man who just had 'amazing' top surgery. Top surgery is the removal of breast tissue as a woman transitions into a man

Elliott frequently uploads videos to TikTok in which she discusses conversations she has with her students

In other clips she discusses whether or not to talk to her classes about the fact she is polyamorous, meaning she has multiple sexual and romantic partners

'And one of the things I'm very open about is my sexuality,' Elliott explained.

'I have a trans flag, a bi[sexual] flag, a non-binary flag all on my desk at my work. But there's one thing I'm not open about, and it's being poly[amorous].

'I don't know how to handle that conversation, because while I know that the kids are more accepting of things like homosexuality, bisexuality, all of that, polyamory is not in the conversation.'

She added she didn't like feeling as though she was 'lying' to her students.

After speaking with her administrators, they agreed it would be appropriate for Elliott to speak to her students about her relationships.

She went on to lash out at 'conservatives' who were not having such open discussions with children.

She said: 'This is not a conversation that conservatives are having at all. They've decided like, you can't do this at all, there's no place for it.

'And that just shows such a lack of thought and care. They're not understanding of the people. They're children as people and where they're at.'

When contacted about the Nintendo publication, Elliott told Fox News digital that 'the slides you mentioned were created in jest for the sake of humor.'

She added: 'It's also strange to point out that they have genders and sexualities, as being a cisgender heterosexual man is in fact a gender and sexual orientation.'

'As part of my DOE employment, despite being primarily hired as an English Teacher, teaching our established and vetted sex education curriculum was not only something I was hired for, it was something I was trained and qualified in.'

She added that she only ever spoke of her personal life 'within reasonable limits.'

Dailymail.com reached out to Elliott and the New York Department of Education for comment.
He's 'not rocking himself to sleep' after his time as PM

Scott Morrison has spoken about his life after politics

Scott Morrison has joked he's not 'rocking himself to sleep' after losing the prime ministership to Anthony Albanese at last year's federal election as he revealed what his life was like since being relegated to the Liberal backbench.

Mr Morrison largely stepped away from politics after his stunning election defeat in May, 2022 and has since centered his life around his family, local community in Sydney's Sutherland Shire and has revisited his Christian spirituality.

While his time as prime minister was riddled with controversy, he only made one reference to commentators who criticised his tenure in the top job.

'If people are thinking I'm sitting here rocking myself to sleep at night in the foetal position, no, I'm not,' he told The Sunday Telegraph.

Scott Morrison (pictured) has spoke about his life following his time as Australia's 30th prime minister

Reflecting on his prime ministership, Mr Morrison told the publication he felt he gave the country's top position 'everything he had' and 'never wasted a day'.

He said he'd received 'enormous support' since returning to life in the Sutherland Shire.

'The Shire has thrown its arms around us and it's been quite a pleasant time to sort of re-engage,' he said.

'Being back in connection with our local community, our local church, our friends, our kids' school and local neighbourhood, all of this is as we hoped would be and it's been a very warm reception.'

Mr Morrison spends his days taking his kids to school, taking meetings in his electorate office, reading books, speaking with locals and filling time in the church.

His choice for reading material includes 'Christian books' and books by philosopher Rabbi Sacks, American psychologist Jonathan Haidt and renowned Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson.

He has continued posting videos of his cooking and serving up curry to social media - something he was known for doing in his spare time.

He believes it's the 'main thing people keep following me on my social media (for)' as he's sometimes asked about his cooking in public.

Mr Morrison has been settling back into life with his family in the Shire and has no intention of returning to politics

Mr Morrison did not reflect much on his political career or his time as prime minister.

People come up to him and primarily thank him for his work during the Covid pandemic and 'around international issues such as AUKUS (and) China'.

He did not address the controversy over secretly swearing himself into numerous portfolios while in office.

He has no plans of re-entering the political debate and wants to focus on enjoying suburban life.

Mr Morrison deliberately shied away from being critical of the current government, saying he's given Mr Albanese the 'courtesy and the respect of having been elected to get on with the job'.
Motorists face missing out on 9billion in savings over the next 20 years if the Government fails to boost the uptake of electric cars.

A report found that used small to mid-sized electric vehicles(EVs) can save owners between 500 and 800 a year in running costs compared with petrol equivalents.

But the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit warned that a lack of available second-hand EVs could cost drivers 9 billion in missed savings by 2043.

It estimated that if the Government sticks to its proposed level for the incoming 'zero-emission vehicle mandate', there will be 2.1million fewer used small and mid-sized EVs on sale by 2033  compared with a scenario in which ministers adopt the car industry's 'high' sales projections.

The mandate will force manufacturers to boost the proportion of new cars and vans they sell in the UK that are zero emission. The Government wants that level set at 22 per cent for 2024, rising each year  including to 38 per cent in 2027  until 2035 when 100 per cent of sales must be zero emission.

A report found that used small to mid-sized electric vehicles (like the Tesla Model 3 pictured) can save drivers 500-800 a year in running costs compared with petrol equivalents

It estimated that if the Government sticks to its proposed level for the incoming 'zero-emission vehicle mandate', there will be 2.1million fewer used small and mid-sized EVs on sale by 2033

But ECIU analysis of an forecast produced by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders suggested that if the take-up of EVs were 'high', their market share would hit 34 per cent in 2024, and as high as 60 per cent in 2027.

Colin Walker, from the ECIU, said: 'If Government policy on new EVs goes slow, the growth of the second-hand EV market will be held back, potentially consigning families to more expensive motoring.'

The Department for Transport said that it was 'working closely' with the car industry 'on the path to all new cars being zero emission by 2035'.

The ECIU believes manufacturers could choose to sell more of their EV stock in the UK if the country sets a tougher ZEV mandate than the European Union.

A Department for Transport spokesman said: 'We're working closely with industry on the path to all new cars being zero emission by 2035, and carefully considering any issues raised as we consult on our mandate.

A Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate will force manufacturers to boost the proportion of new cars and vans they sell in the UK that are zero emission

The Department for Transport said that it was 'working closely' with the car industry 'on the path to all new cars being zero emission by 2035'

'More widely, we've put more than 2 billion into helping consumers transition to electric vehicles.'

Meanwhile modelling by charity RAC Foundation published on Sunday found that the reduction in total carbon emissions from cars necessary to meet the UK's climate change goals could be achieved without drivers travelling less overall.

The analysis found that a 40 per cent reduction in CO2 emissions from cars between 2021 and 2030 can be achieved by big changes in other areas, such as battery electric cars accounting for 35 per cent of the total car fleet in 2030.

RAC Foundation director Steve Gooding said: 'From the point of view of the planet, the next car people buy is critical.

'For those thinking of going electric but wavering - perhaps put off by the up-front price - there is a case for pausing to see how things play out in the next year or two, rather than falling back to petrol.'
This photo, carried by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency on Feb. 27, shows its leader Kim Jong-un presiding over a plenary meeting of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea's Central Committee the previous day to discuss agricultural issues. Yonhap



North Korea has convened a key party meeting to discuss agricultural issues, with its leader Kim Jong-un in attendance, Pyongyang's state media said Monday, as the country is grappling with severe food shortages.



The North's leader Kim presided over the plenary meeting of the Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) on Sunday, according to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).



The rare party meeting came as the North's food situation appears to have deteriorated amid deepening economic hardships caused by border lockdowns to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and global sanctions on its nuclear and missile programs.



The North's media said the meeting will review major achievements from last year, the first year of the implementation of the country's programs on a rural revolution for the new era.



The session will also decide on "the immediate important tasks and the urgent tasks arising at the present stage of the national economic development and the practical ways for implementing them," the KCNA said in an English-language report.



It said participants unanimously approved agenda items and discussed the first one, without elaborating. The plenary meeting will continue, the KCNA said, without providing further details.



The Sunday session was attended by key party members, including Premier Kim Tok-hun and Jo Yong-won, the party secretary for organizational affairs, with related party officials also participating in it via video link.



Observers said the North's rare move to convene a party plenary meeting for the second time in about two months points to the urgency to deal with the country's food crisis.



At its key party meeting late last year, North Korea laid out raising grain production as the No. 1 task among 12 major economic priorities.



South Korea's unification ministry earlier said the North's food crisis appears to be worsening, with more deaths from starvation being reported recently in "some regions."



The ministry handling inter-Korean affairs said a fall in crop production and disrupted food distribution are apparently attributable to the North's food shortages.



North Korea underwent a massive famine and related deaths during the period of the Arduous March in the 1990s. Seoul's ministry said the current food situation does not appear to be similar to what it was during the Arduous March, but it seems to be "grave." (Yonhap)


Rogue senator Lidia Thorpe got mixed up and threw herself in front of a youth charity truck instead of the police float during her bizarre Sydney Mardi Gras protest.

Instead of obstructing the Australian Federal Police or NSW police float as she planned, Thorpe laid down in the path of the QLife truck representing the LGBTIQ community's anonymous hotline and the Twenty10 youth charity.

It can also be revealed she pulled the same stunt, which brought the parade to a standstill, twice before being unceremoniously booted from the event.

New photos, video footage and descriptions of Thorpe's attention-seeking clash have emerged since she was ousted from the parade on Saturday night for breaching safety and participation guidelines.

Responding to Thorpe's extraordinary actions, 2GB announcer Ben Fordham served a brutal take-down on Monday, saying it was a 'whole new low for the rogue Senator'.

'Once again she has proven she is unfit for public office, that's the reality,' he said.

'Even though you've got police officers who for decades now have been part of the Mardi Gras trying to send a message to the gay and lesbian community that they're on their side, Lidia Thorpe doesn't want them there.'

New photos have emerged of ex-Greens senator Lidia Thorpe (above) at Mardi Gras where she appeared to hold two separate protests before lying down twice in the parade, in front of the wrong float

Lidia Thorpe on her first lie-down in Oxford Street, apparently mistaking a float for gay and lesbian youth charity for the federal or state police truck

The former Greens senator, who defected from the party earlier this month to become an independent, drew boos from the crowd with her antics on Oxford St.

Under the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023 Code of Conduct, 'threatening or aggressive behaviour, both verbally and physically' is not permitted and participants must obey instructions of SGLMG staff, security, volunteers, NSW Police and emergency services.

The QLife float for a gay and lesbian helpline and the Twenty10 youth charity was directly behind the federal police float and when Thorpe obstructed it, parade goers began to boo her

A timeline of Lidia Thorpe's actions on Saturday reveals she delivered a firebrand speech to fellow members of the Pride in Protest group's No Pride in Genocide float some time before the parade began at 8pm.

She said she was marching 'not only for First Peoples' but 'for people who want to love the f*** who they want to love' and posed with a sign saying: 'Stop police attacks on queers, women and blacks. Queers say, Treaty Now, Cops out of Mardi Gras.'

The event's 12,500 marchers and 200-plus floats then began moving, with the federal and state police entering the procession around 9pm.

Daily Mail Australia then watched Thorpe crash into the police part of the parade, holding her arms crossed above her head and yelling 'f*** the police'.

When police kept on moving, she escalated her protest and lay down on her back directly in front of a truck that was next in the queue.

As the crowd began to boo Thorpe, two police officers tried to get her up and move her on, as she pointed at an officer and gesticulated to him to back off.

Lidia Thorpe confronts a cop during the parade after two police floats entered the queue of trucks with her ramping up her protest to object any police presence, which is compulsory under SGLMG guidelines

Instead of constructing police, Thorpe lay in front of the float representing gay and lesbian mental health support services include Twenty10 (above) which is for young people

The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras's own guidelines request respectful behaviour, compliance with police and forbid aggressive behaviour, be it physical or verbal

Another officer tried to get her to move on from the front of the float which belonged to QLife, and sported a large lit-up sign on its back promoting the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service NSW's helpline and 'celebrating 50 years of GLCS NSW/Phone-a-Friend'.

UK visitor Alex Day, who filmed Thorpe's antics, thought she was just 'a drunken weirdo'.

Moments later, Thorpe lay down on the ground again, further away from the QLife truck, surrounded by three officers and with the crowd again booing her.

One participant on the truck Thorpe mistook for a police float told Radio 2GB: 'I was marching with them. We were directly behind the police'.

QLife operates Twenty10, which provides housing, counselling and mental health support for young gay people in Sydney.

It merged with GCLS in 2012 to offer free programs and safe spaces to 'people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or gender diverse, intersex, queer, asexual or those who are questioning their identity'.

As an entrant in the parade, Thorpe and the group with which she was marching, Pride in Protest, agree to comply with operational, safety and logistics rules under the SGLMG Entrant Terms and Conditions.

On Sunday, Thorpe said she was 'proud' of her protest at the Mardi Gras .

'Black and brown trans women started the first pride march as a protest against police violence,' she wrote on Twitter.

'Today, we still face violence from police. Proud to have joined the #PrideInProtest float in Sydney to say #NoPrideInGenocide, #NoPrideInPrisons and #NoCopsInPride.'

Senator Thorpe was later pictured lying on her back in front of a float as it tried to travel down Oxford Street as two police officers asked her to move on amid 'boos' from the crowd

Footage of her protest circulated around social media on Sunday morning with her antics drawing plenty of criticism.

'She's zero respect for LGBTQIA people. The woman is a disgrace!' one wrote.

Another added: 'Is there anywhere that Lidia Thorpe can go and just act like a normal human being?

'Is it really that hard to conduct yourself in a decent manner??'

'In a desperate attempt for attention & relevance, activist Lidia Thorpe lays down in front of #MardiGras2023 parade float preventing it from moving forward, scuffles with police & allegedly yelled "F*** the police",' a third person wrote.

'A total disgrace to elected office!'

Daily Mail Australia contacted Ms Thorpe for comment.

One Mardi Gras attendee who witnessed the incident told Daily Mail Australia: 'She came out of nowhere, it took a few seconds for us to realise what was going on.

'I don't know how she got into the parade but she ran after the cops as they marched screaming "f*** the police" at them and towards the crowd.

'She really got in their faces when she caught up, like inches away. Not what we expected to see tonight.

'Pride is supposed to be about unity but she was the only one there making it about something else. Shocking, really.'

Senator Thorpe wore Aboriginal colours and held a 'No Pride in Genocide' sign to the iconic parade on Saturday night

Footage of her protest was circulated on social media the following morning with her antics continuing to draw plenty of criticism on Sunday

Senator Thorpe marched with the 'No Pride in Genocide' float, who campaign for zero police present at Mardi Gras

It's not the first time Senator Thorpe has publicly confronted police.

In May, while she was still a member of The Greens party, she told a police officer 'you're a disgrace' during a demonstration at Melbourne Immigration Transit Accommodation where activists protested against the transportation of 12 detainees to the Christmas Island detention centre.

'You are the criminals, you are the only criminals on this land,' Ms Thorpe shouted at police in video posted to her social media channels.

'How dare you manhandle women like you did. Like you pushed me out of the way. You're an absolute disgrace,' she added.

Ms Thorpe has become known for high profile activism in her four years in Victorian and federal politics, especially on immigration, social justice and environmental issues.
Cranston has since publicly clashed with Trump and other Republicans over his insistence that critical race theory should be taught in schools

The actor, currently promoting 'Your Honor,' said that when he sees the slogan, he asks 'when was it ever great in America for the African American?'

'Breaking Bad' star Bryan Cranston said he believes former President Donald Trump's Make America Great Again slogan is racist

'Breaking Bad' actor Bryan Cranston says he believes the phrase 'Make America Great Again,' used by former President Donald Trump and his followers is racist.

The actor, currently promoting the upcoming season of his show 'Your Honor' sat down with CNN on Sunday and explained his justification.

'When I see the 'Make America Great Again,' my comment is: do you accept that that could possibly be construed as a racist remark,' the actor said.

Cranston told CNN anchor Chris Wallace he believes those who use the phrase are unaware that there was never a time when America was great for African Americans.

'Breaking Bad' actor Bryan Cranston says he believes the phrase 'Make America Great Again,' used by former President Donald Trump and his followers, could be perceived as racist

.@BryanCranston explains to Chris Wallace why MAGA is a racist remark. (So well done, worth a watch.) pic.twitter.com/c3SdlyzFwe  Kaivan Shroff (@KaivanShroff) February 25, 2023

'Make America Great Again' is the phrase circulated by former President Donald Trump and his followers

Cranston sat down with Wallace on his show, 'Who's Talking to Chris Wallace?' to discuss his political and moral beliefs which is when the conversation turned to the controversial phrase.

The actor said most people who he speaks with are confused and taken aback by his question regarding the prejudice of the saying.

'Most people - a lot of people - go "how could that be racist,"' the actor said.

'From an African American experience, when was it ever great in America for the African American? When was it great?' Cranston asked.

'So, if you're making it great again, it's not including them,' he continued.

Cranston went on to say that he uses the conversation to try and open up others' eyes and point of view to his own belief and to their privilege.

'So its, its to teach us in the woke world to open up and accept the possibilities that our privilege has created blind spots for us,' he told Wallace.

The conversation began after Wallace brought up Cranston's recent 'tussle' on 'Club Random,' Bill Maher's podcast, over critical race theory and whether or not it should be taught in schools.

Despite disagreeing on the term 'tussle,' the six-time Emmy Award winner doubled down on his ideals regarding CRT in the classroom.

Similar to his response during the chat with Maher, Cranston said that he believes the U.S. has never fully owned up to its wrongdoings when it comes to slavery and the mistreatment of minorities.

Cranston (left) with 'Breaking Bad' costar Aaron Paul (Aaron Paul) said he believes people don't realize there was never a time in America's history that was 'great' for African Americans

The actor said most people who he speaks with are confused and taken aback by his question regarding the prejudice of the saying

'From an African American experience, when was it ever great in America for the African American? When was it great?' Cranston asked

'So, if you're making it great again, it's not including them,' the six-time Emmy winner said

The 'Your Honor' star said he believes the United States' insistence on not taking culpability for their actions is the root of inequality to this day.

'I think that Germany has looked at their history in involvement in the wars  one and two  and embrace it and say, "This is where we went wrong. This is how it went wrong. This is why it can't go wrong again,"' Cranston told Wallace.

'And I think they have done a very commendable job in doing so. But the United States really hasn't. You present it and say, well, 400 years of slavery, yeah, butwe're moving on,' he continued.

'No, let's really discuss it. How did that happen? How did we get to a point where we treated other human beings as slaves,' Cranston said.

In his January interview with Maher, Cranston argued that critical race theory is 'essential' in schools, as it examines how race, racism, and the slave trade have affected government and social activities.

'It's 400 f**king years that we've dealt with this, and our country still has not taken responsibility or accountability,' Cranston said.

'For what?' Maher asked.

'For the history of the systemic racism that's in this country.'

'What should we do more?' Maher asked.

'Well, I mean, for one thing, critical race theory, I think is essential to be teaching.'

'It depends on what you mean by that,' Maher said.

'I mean, teaching how the race trade and racism is systemic in everything we've done in government, in social activities,' Cranston responded.

Actor Bryan Cranston, pictured, stated that he believes critical race theory is essential in schools in order to understand the systemic racism in the country

But Bill Maher, pictured, argued CRT is a catch-all term and that teaching children that they are oppressors is introducing ideas that are not appropriate for their age

The teaching of CRT in schools has proved to be controversial often leading to protests (file)

Critical race theory is a way of looking at how race and racism affect society and how it's interwoven with other forms of oppression like class and gender.

Advocates argue that race, much like class and gender, are used in subtle ways to maintain systems of power and privilege.

The concept has been heavily argued both for and against with those on the left saying it teaches the most truthful version of history, including the most reprehensible parts.

Those on the right, however, say that CRT teaches impressionable children to 'hate America.' The controversial theory has even been banned in some states, including Florida where Governor Ron DeSantis passed a 'Stop WOKE Act' in 2022.
Famous as the first drink aimed directly at women and the first alcoholic beverage advertised on television, Babycham gained legions of fans.

The sparkling perry, with its Bambi deer logo and goblet-style branded glasses, became a marketing phenomenon in the 1960s and 1970s, selling 144 million bottles a year by 1977.

Popularised with the enthusiastic slogan Id love a Babycham, it took the place of previous ladylike options at the bar, such as port and lemon, or milk stout.

Although it has continued to be sold, Babycham has more recently been sidelined by the growth of alcopops and cocktails.

Now, the family which invented the drink in 1952 have bought it back after decades in mass-production and are planning to go back to the future to restore the brands fizz.

Famous as the first drink aimed directly at women and the first alcoholic beverage advertised on television, Babycham gained legions of fans

The family which invented the drink in 1952 have bought it back after decades in mass-production

It is now being made at its old base in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, and there are plans to revive old production methods and the original recipe.

Matthew Showering, of the Showering brewing dynasty whose grandfather, Francis Showering, invented Babycham, said: We will get closer to the original production method and recipe, as some things got chiselled away for speed with mass production.

And we are going towards the original look too, so well have quite a retro feel which, oddly, will make it more modern.

Speaking to the Observer, he said he believes Babychams original attributes were what made it a success, so its important to stick with that. Its why it took off.

He believes the perry will be able to hold its own against dry sparkling wines including Prosecco and Champagne - and hopefully attract a younger following.

Mr Showering said: If you were to put a Babycham and a prosecco, or even a Champagne, side by side, there are an awful lot of people who would actually prefer the Babycham, because it hasnt got that dry rasp. He added: We want to keep that sense of celebration about it.

Back then, nearly all drinks were sold in pubs, and Babycham were the masters of point-of-sale marketing. Youd have a glass there on show and maybe a little deer on the bar.

Mr Showerings family have run their brewery for 14 generations. He and his brothers, Jonathan, Francis and Daniel, also set up Brothers Drinks in the 1990s and became official partners of the Glastonbury festival.

Mr Showering said his grandfathers original drink commercialised what had been a prized tipple in south-west England for centuries.

Popularised with the enthusiastic slogan Id love a Babycham, it took the place of previous ladylike options at the bar, such as port and lemon, or milk stout

He said: In Somerset, landowners gave the farmers the cider, and kept the perry for themselves. After winning prizes at agricultural shows, Showerings perry, sold in little bottles, picked up the nickname baby champ - and the drinks popularity mushroomed.

London advisers came up with early slogans and designed the baby deer logo, with its winsome blue bow.

Mr Showering said: The family really hit the jackpot with Babycham, and it meant that it became quite a big company that was able to go on to buy other brands like Britvic and Harveys.

But then it was merged with Allied Breweries in 1968.

We bought back the old factory in 2016, but last year was a big year too, because we also bought back the original offices and the Babycham brand.

As well as the relaunch of the drink, the Showerings are even revamping a 15ft statue of the Babycham fawn on the factory roof, which had been battered by decades of Somerset wind and rain.

Mr Showering said: We got a car company to give it a fantastic spray job and we will get it up on the roof again soon.
A former student at Howard University School of Law who is white has filed a $2 million lawsuit against the historically black institution, alleging he endured racial discrimination and creating a 'hostile education environment'.

Michael Newman, attended the School of Law starting in the fall semester of 2020 and remained there for two years until he was expelled in September 2022.

Newman's lawsuit alleges he suffered 'pain, suffering, emotional anguish and damage to his reputation,' as a result of racial discrimination by school administrators and other students.

His claims are based on a series of alleged events that took place during his time at the law school, including him being publicly ostracized, vilified, and humiliated.

In response, the university has said it 'is prepared to vigorously defend itself in this lawsuit.'

Howard University President Wayne A.I. Frederick is pictured. The institution is being sued by a former white student at the university. The university has said it 'is prepared to vigorously defend itself in this lawsuit.'

A White student has filed a lawsuit against Howard University's law school, alleging racial discrimination and creating a hostile education environment. Howard University, pictured

In the lawsuit, Newman raised concerns about his treatment to school administrators, but they denied that caucasian students at Howard Law, and that Newman in particular, faced racial discrimination to any degree.

Newman details how he suffered 'depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts' as a result of the treatment he received, the lawsuit claims.

The trouble for Newman allegedly began when the university shifted to remote learning at the start of the pandemic, meaning students communicated through purely online forums and GroupMe chats.

Following a symposium featuring an African-American speaker in the run-up to the 2020 election, Newman said he posted on a professor's forum page asking if further dialogue could be had on 'whether: (1) Black voters didn't question turning to government for solutions, and (2) reliably voting for the same party every election disincentivized both parties from responding to the needs of the black communities.'

Newman received negative responses from some students and was removed from one of his group chats for the class, according to the allegations.

Newman also described feeling 'utterly disenfranchised' at the school and compared himself to a black student at a primarily white university.

Once again, the student response was again largely negative, with some calling his comment 'offensive.'

Newman repeatedly apologized for offending anyone, stressing he was seeking to 'learn, not just law, but to learn the thoughts and experiences of people of color,' the lawsuit stated.

After discussions regarding Newman's alleged racial insensitivity, students found out about a tweet from his private Twitter account which depicted a slave baring his badly scarred back with the caption: 'But we don't know what he did before the picture was taken,' according to the lawsuit.

In another controversial tweet, Newman seemed to claim that he was mocking commentators who 'attempt to explain away videos of police brutality by claiming the victim must have committed wrongdoing before the video started.'

But Newman allegedly continued to face overt hostility, with many students starting to refer to him as 'mayo king' (a perceived reference to his race) and 'white panther,' with students claiming that 'controversies' that they blamed on Newman had caused 'severe stress' and 'distracted them from their studies.'

Newman then tried to remedy the situation by sending out a four-part letter to explain his views, but the effort was labeled a 'manifesto,' with one student accusing him of 'manipulating [classmates'] emotions  as a social experiment,' the lawsuit states.

The letters allegedly resulted in Newman's removal from a second class-wide group chat.

School of Law Dean Danielle Holley later secretly recorded a Zoom meeting she called with Newman and Global Head of Diversity Recruiting Reggie McGahee, during which she suggested Newman transfer to another school, accusing him of racially harassing classmates, according to the allegations.

Gahee is alleged to have told Newman how he had become 'the most hated' student McGahee had seen during his tenure at the university.

During a digital town hall attended by 300 participants to discuss controversies surrounding Newman, Holley allegedly characterized Newman's letters as 'disturbing in every sense of the word,' according to the suit.

She allegedly blocked him from using several functions to try and speak up in his defense, even disabling the chat function and turning off his camera.

Holley and Newman wound up filing simultaneous complaints, with Holley accusing Newman of 'continual harassment of member [sic] of the Howard Law community, and disturbance of the learning environment at the School of Law.

At the same time, Newman claimed Holley had perpetuated 'threats,' 'discrimination' and a 'hostile academic environment.'

Frank Tramble, vice president and chief communications officer for Howard University, said that while he could not comment 'substantively' due to pending litigation, the university 'is prepared to vigorously defend itself in this lawsuit as the claims provide a one-sided and self-serving narrative of the events leading to the end of the student's enrollment at the university.'

Newmans lawyers will now try to prove that the school broke its contract with him and that the string of incidents and subsequent review panels ultimately led to him being expelled.
Nicola Sturgeon's strategy for breaking up Britain lies in tatters after the candidates to succeed her slammed the brakes on another independence vote.

Humza Yousaf, Kate Forbes and Ash Regan all voiced opposition to Miss Sturgeon's plan to turn the next general election into a 'de facto referendum', whereby she would have tried to begin talks on independence if the SNP and other separatist parties won a majority of votes.

The three candidates all agreed yesterday that support for independence would need to rise before they could step up efforts to tear Scotland out of the UK.

Critics branded them 'the three stooges' as the leadership rivals vowed to focus on boosting support for separation, sparking claims they would push the same 'independence obsession' rather than concentrate on the priorities of most Scots.

When asked about the issue of Scottish independence on BBC Scotland's Sunday show, Miss Regan referred to the American War of Independence and Britain's colonial past to argue that referendums are just one way of breaking free.

'Sixty-five countries have become independent from either the UK or the British Empire over the last while, and most of them didn't actually use referendums,' she said.

'The UK Government initially refused permission to recognise but eventually, because of pressure from the international community, they succumbed... and eventually agreed to do it.'

Nicola Sturgeon is questioned by media on her way to the first session of First Minister's Questions in the Scottish Parliament since her unexpected resignation

Left to right: Ash Regan, Humza Yousaf, and Kate Forbes have all secured sufficient backing to put their names on the ballot to become the next SNP leader and Scottish First Minister

Meanwhile, a devastating new report by one of the SNP's own economic advisers warned that independence could result in 253,000 job losses and the economy shrinking by 10 per cent.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: 'None of the three candidates in the race are fit to run the country. Scotland deserves better than the three stooges battling it out for Bute House.'

Craig Hoy, Scottish Conservative chairman, said the 'bitter infighting' was 'getting worse by the day' and media appearances had shown that the only thing the feuding camps had in common was 'their relentless obsession with tearing apart the UK'.

He added: 'Kate Forbes, Humza Yousaf and Ash Regan are vying with each other to see who can throw the most red meat to party members on independence. In doing so, they are moving further and further away from the priorities of ordinary Scots, who want and expect their leaders to focus on the cost of living crisis, an NHS which is on its knees and ending the teacher strikes.'

On the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Yousaf said he would focus on making support for independence a 'sustainable majority' view.

He said: 'If we increase support for independence, make it the sustainable majority... if we create the sustained settled will, the majority of people supporting independence, then of course those political obstacles that are put in the way by our opposition, they will crumble.' Asked whether that meant he was dropping the idea of the next election being treated as an independence referendum, he said he was 'not wedded' to it.

But he said that, under his leadership, every election fought by the SNP would be about independence.

Mr Yousaf, whose bid to become First Minister was endorsed yesterday by former SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford, added: 'I think it is right that we energise the membership, that we bring them together, that we have a series of discussions about what the route should be forward, and the leadership should act on that collective mandate.

On the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Yousaf said he would focus on making support for independence a 'sustainable majority' view

Miss Regan, the former community safety minister, said the party must demonstrate 'good governance' to allow support for independence to rise

'But let's not wait for a date, let's not wait for that process, let's get out there... pound every pavement, look people in the whites of their eyes and tell them why they need independence now. And if we get that settled, sustained majority, then independence will absolutely be inevitable.'

Miss Regan, the former community safety minister, said the party must demonstrate 'good governance' to allow support for independence to rise.

She told the BBC's The Sunday Show: 'In a de facto referendum situation, it's a single issue and a single event, and I don't think we should be fighting the next general election... on a single issue. That's not appropriate, it's not wise and we shouldn't be doing it.'

But she confirmed that any votes for the SNP under her leadership would be considered a vote for independence.

Miss Regan has set out a plan for a 'voter empowerment strategy' whereby she would declare independence if the SNP and pro-independence parties won a majority of votes in any future elections  and claimed the mandate would have to be recognised by the UK Government.

Miss Forbes, the Finance Secretary, also said it was not the time for another referendum. She told the Sunday Post: 'We need to be on the front foot in preparing the ground and making the case for independence. I would like that to be sooner rather than later, but I also want it to be at the point when a majority of people can see that independence is the answer on these issues, and we're not there yet.'
Britons are bracing for plummeting temperatures as the Met Office warns of snow and rain to hit the UK in the coming weeks.

The mercury is forecast to fall as low as -8C in Scotland overnight as temperatures drop to below average entering March.

The Met Office issued a notice on a major Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) earlier this month  a sharp increase in temperatures which causes a blocking of high pressure  for late February and early March.

And the forecaster has now warned of a possibility of snow and wind combining to cause disruption across the UK next month.

Northern and eastern coasts are expected to see the bulk of wintry conditions at the end of this week, before snow and rain is expected to move to the west.

Walkers on Wimbledon Common, south west London on a cold morning on Sunday amid falling temperatures

The Met Office issued a notice on a major Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) earlier this month. Pictured: Sherfield on Loddon, Berkshire, on Sunday

Meanwhile, Scotland is forecast to be met with sub-zero temperatures overnight.

A Met Office spokesperson said: 'Temperatures are likely to fall below freezing where skies remain clear tonight and similar to last night we could see lows down to minus 8 Celsius for parts of Scotland.'

Looking ahead to March 3 to March 12, they added that Britons face the possibility of snow.

'Friday is likely to be mostly cloudy with some light rain in places, although some clear or sunny intervals remain possible. Into the weekend, settled conditions are expected to continue, bringing variable cloud with some clear, sunny spells', the outlook says.

'Showers mainly along northern and eastern coasts could be wintry across hills. Later in the period, high pressure is expected to migrate northwestwards, increasing the likelihood of any wintry showers in the north and east.

'There is a small possibility of more organised rain or snow spreading southwards, with the west and northwest most likely to remain under a settled regime.

'Winds generally light to moderate, possibly becoming stronger in the north. Temperatures generally colder than average, with some overnight frost likely.'

Looking further ahead, mid-March will bring the greatest chance of snow, with the Met Office warning of snow causing disruption.

Aurora sightings across the UK this evening following a coronal hole high speed stream combining with a fast coronal mass ejection

Its outlook adds: 'Through this period, spells of rain and snow are likely at times, with a small possibility of these combining with stronger winds to become locally disruptive.

'Overall though, conditions are more likely to be mixed, with some areas remaining largely snow free. Northwestern areas are likely to stay driest throughout.

'Temperatures are likely to remain below average to start, although a trend towards average temperatures is most likely later on. Despite this trend, short colder spells remain possible, and are more likely than average.'

It comes after forecasters warned of a weather event that could spark harsh wintry weather similar to the 'Beast from the East' storm that pummelled the UK with 22 inches of snow in 2018.

The Met Office said there was an 80 per cent chance a sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event takes place at the end of February.

An SSW, involving a jump in temperatures high over the Arctic, had in 2018 led to the so-called 'Beast of the East' storm, which wreaked havoc on Britain, causing up to 22 inches of snow in some areas.

Temperatures of -11C hit parts of the country, which were the lowest recorded since 1986.

The wind chill, which saw parts of the UK feel as cold as minus -15C, rivalled the temperatures for parts of northern Norway and Iceland.

Meanwhile, a coronal hole high speed stream arrived in Britain on Sunday night, combined with a rather fast coronal mass ejection, leading to Aurora sightings across the UK.
New Orleans residents are seeking to push controversial Mayor LaToya Cantrell out of office as they claim she is guilty of 'quiet quitting' by failing to meet with her department heads for over a year.

The recall effort against Cantrell, 50, launched in August 2022 as vice chair organizer Ellen Carter worked to gather 50,000 signatures by February 22 - a goal she insists they surpassed.

Carter worked in Cantrell's office for three years and watched firsthand as she claimed the mayor 'quiet quit' or stopped doing her job, as crime rates increased and residents became fearful, she told Fox News.

'Right now our mayor doesnt love New Orleans so the citizens and the residents stood up,' Carter told the news outlet. 'Were taking our city back, and were gonna save New Orleans.'

Cantrell has been at the frontend of several scandals as surfaced footage showed her flipping riders off on a Mardi Gras parade float and reports alleged she had an affair with her bodyguard.

New Orleans residents seek to push controversial Mayor LaToya Cantrell out of office as they accuse her of 'quiet quitting'

Cantrell has been at the frontend of several scandals as surfaced footage showed her flipping the bird during the Krewe of Tucks Parade on Saturday in New Orleans

Records revealed Cantrell halted her regular responsibilities as mayor, including meetings with department heads that she hasn't scheduled in more than a year as of November, according to the news outlet.

Cantrell's lack of care for her city has left constituents in fear as New Orleans was almost named the nation's murder capital in 2022 before being ousted by Jackson, Mississippi.

Recall vice chair organizer Ellen Carter used to work in the mayors office and recalled when she supposedly stopped working

New Orleans witnessed a 116 percent increase in homicides between 2019 and 2022. In 2022, the city recorded 280 homicides, according to WDSU news. About 480 shooting incidents was also recorded along with 541 robberies and 279 carjackings.

'Were like Gotham down here,' Carter told Fox News. 'Its sad to say, but thats kind of what people are calling us, and were calling ourselves that.'

'People are fearful. This administration hasn't risen to the occasion that we need right now. Quality of life standards are just diminishing.'

Aside from crime, the upkeep of the historic city has diminished as Carter claimed buildings have broken windows and potholes fill the streets.

'I don't think she's making very good judgment decisions for the city at all, to the point of arrogance,' Carter said.

If the county registrar office verifies the 50,000 signatures as valid, a recall election will be triggered to allow voters to decide on whether to oust Cantrell.

Cantrell's office wasn't immediately available for comment.

Cantrell's lack of care for her city has left constituents in fear as New Orleans was almost named the nation's murder capital in 2022 before being ousted by Jackson, Mississippi

Carter worked to gather 50,000 signatures by February 22 - a goal she insists they surpassed. Recall organizers applauded after receiving the number of signatures they needed to trigger an election

Amid the recall effort, some residents feared retaliation for signing petitions in support of ousting Cantrell.

'Cantrell will be bitter. She will go after people. They dont want retribution against them, but they will vote for it when it goes to an election,' Babs, a resident of the city, told the news outlet.

One restaurant owner was issued a restraining order for allegedly violating his lease after he was warned by his landlord to cancel an event in support of recalling Cantrell.

Carter called Cantrell's tactics fear-based, claiming, 'They will take your job. They will take your livelihood.'

Cantrell has struggled to win the favor over her constituents and was recently filmed yelling and flipping the bird at riders on a Mardi Gras parade float.

The short clip shows the Democratic leader cheering from stands at Gallier Hall downtown, appearing to cheer on in support of the Krewe of Tucks parade before raising her middle finger to the crowd.

The mayor appears to shout at the floats passing by her: 'I love you. God bless you. I'll see you. Happy Mardi Gras. Enjoy your ride. So glad your ride was good. Love you.'

It is unclear exactly what provoked Cantrell's rude reaction and a statement from the mayor's office released Sunday evening reads: 'Mardi Gras is a time where satire and jest are on full display. The city has been enjoying a safe and healthy Carnival and is looking forward to continuing the celebration on Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras.'

Cantrell was accused last month for having an 'ongoing adulterous affair' with police detective Jeffrey Vappie, 50

Cantrell was accused last month for having an 'ongoing adulterous affair' with the former head of her police detail who has since been suspended due to an investigation into irregularities relating to his pay.

The latest allegations came to light after the wife of New Orleans' police detective Jeffrey Vappie, 50, amended her divorce petition to claim that her estranged husband was involved in a sexual relationship with a woman named only as 'Mrs. L.C.'

Vappie's wife, Danielle, alleges that her husband and the mayor have been carrying on the affair since May 2021, the same month that he began working on Cantrell's detail.

Cantrell has also faced a wave of criticism for using $30,000 in taxpayer funds for first class tickets to Europe.
A remarkable photo shows the moment a surfer was nearly knocked off his board by a playful dolphin - as perfect conditions on the east coast brought them out in droves.

Dozens of dolphins joined surfers on the waves at The Pass, a beach in Byron Bay, NSW, at the weekend, with north-westerly winds from Cyclone Gabrielle whipping up a decent swell.

'The surfers were having the time of their lives but the dolphins were having more fun,' amateur photographer Paul Stanley-Jones told Daily Mail Australia.

'Some waves had 10, 20, 30 dolphins under them.'

One photo in particular - where a dolphin almost appears to collide with a surfer - caught the eye of locals, with many Byron residents expressing amazement at just how eager the dolphins were to frolic with humans.

A surfer was nearly knocked off his board by a playful dolphin at The Pass, in Byron Bay, NSW, on Sunday

Mr Stanley-Jones - who has surfed since he was six-years-old - said of surfing with the majestic animals: 'It's pretty hairy the first time they swim with you.

'They're not small creatures, but it's magical once you get used to them swimming under your board and alongside you.'

Mr Stanley-Jones said he often goes out to admire the the waves when he can't enter them himself.

'I print photos for surfers when I can grab them because its one thing to live it while you're out there, but when someone captures it you can relive it forever.'

'Some waves had 10, 20, 30 dolphins under them,' photographer Paul Stanley-Jones told Daily Mail Australia

He was unable to locate the unidentified surfers, but is keen to offer them high-quality prints of the pictures he took.

Mr Stanley-Jones said after Cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand's northern island it created perfect wind conditions for a day in the surf.

When he got out there he expected to spend an hour snapping pictures but ended up seated for over seven hours after the dolphins arrived, walking away with over 680 photos in his camera-roll.

'They're such beautiful, inquisitive creatures,' Mr Stanley-Jones said.

'As surfers, when there's dolphins around apparently there's no sharks.

'I don't know if that's true, but I've never seen a shark out there when there's dolphins around.'
A top defamation barrister and the lawyer who will be representing Lisa Wilkinson in her upcoming legal battle against Bruce Lehrmann has fired a warning shot to any of her future legal opponents - be rude, get sued.

Wilkinson won a Logie in June, 2022 for her interview with Brittany Higgins, where the ex-Liberal party staffer accused Lehrmann of raping her three years earlier.

Lehrmann has always denied the allegations levelled against him by Higgins and commenced defamation proceedings against Wilkinson, Channel 10, news.com.au and its political editor Samantha Maiden in February.

Wilkinson was first represented by Thomson Greer, the legal team on retainer for Channel 10, but quickly ditched the lawyers to instead hire star defamation barrister Sue Chrysanthou SC, Gillis Delaney Lawyers and its partner Anthony Jefferies.

The powerhouse lawyer has won a number of high-profile defamation cases in the past few years, securing hefty payouts for former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro, former Sydney Morning Herald columnist Clementine Ford and Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young.

Ms Chrysanthou's most recent win was for ex-army commando Heston Russell, who sued the ABC over articles from 2021 that linked him to alleged war crimes in Afghanistan.

Sue Chrysanthou SC sent the chocolate smash cake to her client and ex-army commando Heston Russell (pictured left together) as a belated Christmas present. Ms Chrysanthou has been hired by Lisa Wilkinson in her defamation battle against Bruce Lehrmann

Ms Chyrsanthou sent chocolate smash cakes to a number of her clients as a belated Christmas present, including Mr Russell.

Mr Russell earlier this month won the first round of his defamation battle against the ABC.

He thanked Ms Chrysanthou and solicitor Rebekah Giles in an Instagram post shared over the weekend, showing him smashing the chocolate cake open with a hammer.

The cake was emblazoned with a small sign that read, 'Be rude, get sued'.

'Breaking the summer shred regime with a belated Christmas present from the Baddest Boss-B* Barrister in the land,' he captioned the video, alongside a photo of him and Ms Chrysanthou.

'Extra Credit to Rebekah G for being the Solicitor Supreme behind the scenes and also showcasing her slow-mo camera skills,' the post continued, with the hashtags '#BeRude' and '#GetSued'.

Mr Russell's lawyers won their first matter in the Federal Court on February 1 after Justice Michael Lee found a number of ABC stories referring to the former soldier were defamatory.

The matter will now go to trial in the Federal Court in March.

It was revealed earlier this month Wilkinson had dropped her lawyers at Network 10 and hired a new legal team to defend her during the high-profile defamation case against Bruce Lehrmann.

Earlier this month it was revealed Wilkinson (pictured with Brittany Higgins) had dropped her lawyers at Network 10 and hired a new legal team to defend her during the high-profile defamation case against Bruce Lehrmann

Lehrmann is suing the network over an interview aired on The Project in February 2021, where former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins first alleged to Wilkinson that she was raped by 'a male colleague' in Parliament House in 2019.

According to a statement of claim filed in the Federal Court on February 7, Mr Lehrmann will allege Channel 10 and Wilkinson were 'recklessly indifferent to the truth or falsity' when the allegations against him were made.

Channel 10's lawyers at Thomson Geer lodged papers stating they would represent Wilkinson - however, new papers lodged less than a day later said the arrangement had been terminated.

Federal Court documents have since indicated Wilkinson would instead be represented by Gillis Delaney Lawyers and its partner Anthony Jefferies.

She has also hired Ms Chrysanthou.

Ms Chrysanthou has a long list of high-profile clients and was behind the massive $2.9million payment The Daily Telegraph was ordered to pay to Australian actor Geoffrey Rush after he won his defamation case against the Sydney paper in 2018.

The barrister is also acting for Lachlan Murdoch after he filed defamation proceedings against Private Media, the publisher of Crikey, over an article from July last year.
Farmers could be given extra financial incentives to band together to kill grey squirrels in a drive to rid Britain of the invasive species.

Currently individual farmers can receive 50 a hectare to get rid of grey squirrels on their land.

But new measures are planned on a much bigger scale  potentially across entire counties  as part of a revamp of financial subsidies for farmers after Brexit.

The new scheme, called Environmental Land Management, rewards farmers for conserving nature instead of just basing subsidies on how much land they own.

Niall Moore, of the Non-Native Species Secretariat, said: 'We're looking to see if we could possibly incentivise control across a large, very large scale, maybe county levels and multiple county.

Individual farmers currently receive 50 a hectare to get rid of grey squirrels on their land

New measures are set to be made on a much bigger scale potentially across entire counties

'For that, it will be tricky, but you know, I think it's I think it's doable.

'It's one of the benefits of having left the EU is where we now don't have to put all our money into the common agricultural policies.'

The scheme could expand to target other invasive species in its sights as well: including non-native deer species and mink.

Explaining why farmers could be asked to target mink, Dr Moore added: 'Mink is another one that we're really worried about. I mean, mink been around for a long time, but they do have a huge impact on water voles and some of our nesting seabirds.

'So we're we're looking to see if we could possibly incentivize control across a large, very large scale, maybe across county levels and multiple counties.'

Non-native species are one of the top five drivers of biodiversity loss globally with new figures showing an estimated to cost the British economy 1.84 billion per year.

There are currently around 2,000 non-native species in Britain with 10 to 12 new species establishing themselves every year.

Lord Benyon, Minister for Biosecurity, said: 'Through coordinated actions across Great Britain to prevent the arrival of new non-native species and tackle the impacts of those established - we can minimise the potentially devasting environmental and economic impacts these species cause.'
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, center, and his daughter Ju-ae, second from right, attend a groundbreaking ceremony for a new street in Pyongyang, Saturday, in this photo provided by the North's official Korean Central News Agency. Yonhap



By Kang Seung-woo



It is too early to tell if North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un's headline-grabbing daughter, Ju-ae, is the true heir apparent, South Korea's Unification Minister Kwon Young-se said, Monday. But he did not rule out the possibility either that she might become the next leader of the country, which has been ruled by three generations of the Kim family.



"Even if North Korea begins grooming her as the next leader, questions remain as to whether she will be able to lead the military-oriented North Korean system," Kwon said during a radio interview with CBS.



"Kim Jong-un has just turned 40 and the North Korean regime is much more patriarchal and male-dominated than we are."



However, Kwon, a four-term lawmaker, said that the government needs to keep a close eye on whether Ju-ae will assume leadership, given that North Korea has made it clear that the Kim family's rule will continue into the fourth generation.



The South Korean unification minister's prediction comes as Ju-ae made her seventh public appearance, Saturday.



Alongside her father, she attended a groundbreaking ceremony, Saturday, for a new street in Pyongyang, which is part of an ambitious project to build 4,100 homes in the capital city's northern area, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).



In its report, the KCNA described Ju-ae as its leader's "beloved daughter" instead of mentioning her by name.



Since she made her first public appearance with her father at the test site of an intercontinental ballistic missile in November 2022, there has been widespread speculation over whether she will succeed her father. The daughter, believed to be 10 years old, also attended a military parade to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of its military earlier this month.



"It is not normal for the North Korean leader to bring his daughter to military-related events at first sight, but it is not usual to see her digging with a shovel during a groundbreaking ceremony," Kwon said.



Although it is widely believed that Ju-ae is the second child of the North Korean leader, the unification minister said he cannot confirm whether Kim has a son, who is believed to be his first child.



Earlier this month, North Korea fired a Hwasong-15 ICBM on a lofted trajectory that flew 989 kilometers and crashed in international waters off the East Sea, according to the KCNA.



Kwon said North Korea may launch an ICBM at a normal angle, an act that will demonstrate the country's mastery of its atmospheric reentry technology.



"If that happens, the United States would likely consider it a very existential threat," the minister said.



North Korea is believed since last year to have fully prepared for its seventh nuclear test, which Kwon said is still likely, saying that the reclusive country has "been keeping tunnels 3 and 4 at its nuclear test site in Punggye-ri well-prepared."


An incredible photograph of an 150-foot wave during a storm in Sunderland shows a remarkable resemblance to the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Amateur photographer Ian Sproat, 41, said he spent 12 hours on Saturday taking pictures, including incredible shapes formed by the waves in the storm.

One spectacular shot at the Roker Pier and Lighthouse in Sunderland appears to capture the likeness of the late Queen as the sea crashes against the pier.

The shape of the wave forms the silhouette of Her Majesty's face and part of her crown  the iconic image seen for decades on the face of coins and banknotes.

The electrician told The Sun: 'I was absolutely gobsmacked when I saw the photo.

An incredible photograph of an 150-foot wave during a storm in Sunderland shows a remarkable resemblance to the late Queen Elizabeth II

'There were so many different shapes coming out of the sea. Pretty bad conditions with probably the biggest wave I have ever photographed.'

Ian himself saw Amphitrite, the goddess of the sea and wife of Poseidon, reflected in the photo.

But others have been quick to point out its almost uncanny resemblance to the Queen - a coincidence made even more poignant by her daughter Princess Anne's lifelong love of lighthouses.

It is not the first time Britons have spotted the late Queen's image in the natural landscape - spotted here in clouds in September

Ian himself saw Amphitrite (left), the goddess of the sea and wife of Poseidon, reflected in the photo

Ian has been taking photos for about two years alongside his work as an electrician.

He especially enjoys shooting seascapes and big waves - as well as wildlife.

It is not the first time Britons have spotted the late Queen's image in the natural landscape.

Pictures of cloud formations taken in September appeared to show her profile - with wings and a crown - appearing in the skies.
Roald Dahl once told painter Francis Bacon that he 'hoped to God' his publishers would not change his work, and vowed to send the 'enormous crocodile' - one of his characters - to gobble up any who did.

'I've warned my publishers that if they later on so much as change a single comma in one of my books, they will never see another word from me. Never!' Dahl is reported to have said.

'When I am gone, if that happens, then I'll wish mighty Thor knocks very hard on their heads with his Mjolnir. Or I will send along the 'enormous crocodile' to gobble them up.'

The comments, uncovered by The Guardian, were recorded by Barry Joule, a friend of Bacon who accompanied the pair on a visit to Dahl's Buckinghamshire residence in 1982.

Bacon was said to have heartily agreed with Dahl's sentiment, adding: 'There must be no changes to an artist's original work when he is dead for any reason whatsoever.'

The revelation comes as publisher Penguin Random House announced on Friday it will publish 'classic' unexpurgated versions of Dahl's children's novels after it received criticism for cuts and rewrites that it said were intended to make the books suitable for modern readers.

Portrait of writer Roald Dahl waving a cigarette at his Buckinghamshire home

English painter Francis Bacon in his studio, circa 1960

Along with the new editions, the company said 17 of Dahl's books would be published in their original form later this year as 'The Roald Dahl Classic Collection' so 'readers will be free to choose which version of Dahl's stories they prefer.'

The move followed a storm of criticism of scores of changes made to 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' and other much-loved classics for recent editions published under the company's Puffin children's label, in which passages relating to weight, mental health, gender and race were altered.

Augustus Gloop, Charlie's gluttonous antagonist in 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' - originally published in 1964 - became 'enormous' rather than 'enormously fat.' In 'Witches,' an 'old hag' became an 'old crow,' and a supernatural female posing as an ordinary woman may be a 'top scientist or running a business' instead of a 'cashier in a supermarket or typing letters for a businessman.'

In 'Fantastic Mr. Fox,' the word 'black' was removed from a description of the 'murderous, brutal-looking' tractors.

The Roald Dahl Story Company, which controls the rights to the books, said it had worked with Puffin to review and revise the texts because it wanted to ensure that 'Dahl's wonderful stories and characters continue to be enjoyed by all children today.'

While tweaking old books for modern sensibilities is not a new phenomenon in publishing, the scale of the edits drew strong criticism from free-speech groups such as writers' organisation PEN America, and from authors including Salman Rushdie.

FILE PIC: Books by Roald Dahl are displayed at the Barney's store on East 60th Street in New York

Author Roald Dahl (PA)

Rushdie, who lived under threat of death from Iran's Islamic regime for years because of the alleged blasphemy of his novel 'The Satanic Verses,' called the revisions 'absurd censorship.'

Rushdie, who was attacked and seriously injured last year at an event in New York state, tweeted news of Penguin's change of heart on Friday with the words 'Penguin Books back down after Roald Dahl backlash!'

PEN America chief executive Suzanne Nossel wrote on Twitter: 'I applaud Penguin for hearing out critics, taking the time to rethink this, and coming to the right place.'

Camilla, Britain's queen consort, appeared to offer her view at a literary reception on Thursday. She urged writers to 'remain true to your calling, unimpeded by those who may wish to curb the freedom of your expression or impose limits on your imagination.'

Dahl's books, with their mischievous children, strange beasts and often beastly adults, have sold more than 300 million copies and continue to be read by children around the world. Their multiple stage and screen adaptations include 'Matilda the Musical' and two 'Willy Wonka' films based on 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' with a third in the works.

But Dahl, who died in 1990, is also a controversial figure because of antisemitic comments made throughout his life. His family apologised in 2020.

In 2021, Dahl's estate sold the rights to the books to Netflix, which plans to produce a new generation of films based on the stories.

Francesca Dow, managing director of Penguin Random House Children's, said the publisher had 'listened to the debate over the past week which has reaffirmed the extraordinary power of Roald Dahl's books and the very real questions around how stories from another era can be kept relevant for each new generation.'

'Roald Dahl's fantastic books are often the first stories young children will read independently, and taking care for the imaginations and fast-developing minds of young readers is both a privilege and a responsibility,' she said.

'We also recognize the importance of keeping Dahl's classic texts in print,' Dow said. 'By making both Puffin and Penguin versions available, we are offering readers the choice to decide how they experience Roald Dahl's magical, marvelous stories.'
As a partial solution, Goldfinch has proposed a two-time fee of $250 on all new residents to the Palmetto State to help fund roads, bridges and schools

State lawmaker Stephen Goldfinch said that he is worried about the impact mass immigration into the state is having on the residents' quality of life

South Carolina received a massive influx of residents during the pandemic, many of whom decided to make their moves permanent

South Carolina State Senator Stephen Goldfinch has proposed a bill, called the 'Yankee Tax,' that would require new residents to the Palmetto State fork over up to $500 on arrival.

If passed by the state bodies, new residents moving to South Carolina would be required to pay two one-time fees. One $250 for a new driver's license, and the other $250 for a vehicle registration.

Goldfinch told Fox News that he believes there is a 'rational basis for requiring newcomers to catch up with he rest of us and contribute to the roads, bridges, schools and green spaces that we've [residents] always contributed to.'

His proposal arrived after hoards of people have spent the last several years moving to South Carolina - a trend that became particularly exacerbated during COVID.

South Carolina State Senator Stephen Goldfinch proposed an entry fee to new residents of the Palmetto State

Charleston, South Carolina has seen a massive influx of both tourists and new residents since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic

Many people moved during the pandemic to the Palmetto State for a few months and decided to make the living situation permanent for a number of reasons including the ongoing ability to work from home and the lower taxes and preferable climate of the southern state.

The lawmaker says his push for the fee to be enacted is in the best interests of the people of South Carolina, many of whom worry about the significant number of people who have moved to their state in the last decade.

'Our quality of life has been diminished by the almost 4 million people that have moved here in the last decade,' he said.

'And we anticipate another million people moving here in the next decade. Everybody is concerned about their quality of life.'

He doubts, however, that a $500 fee will ultimately be enough to stop anyone from moving.

'I find it hard to believe that $250 is going to dissuade anybody from coming,' he said.

Goldfinch is proposing the two-time fee of $250 in order to fund roads, bridges, schools and green spaces in the state that others have funded their entire lives

Similar proposals are being mulled over by state bodies in New York and California, only residents would be taxed as they exited the high-tax states

Many chose to ultimately settle down in South Carolina due to the preferable weather and tax rates

The New Resident fee will be available for debate on the floor of the South Carolina Senate next week, he said.

If it passed, counties will vote on it in their upcoming 2024 general elections.

South Carolina isn't the only state thinking about an immigration fee.

Both New York and California, states with extremely high exit numbers over the last several years, are mulling legislation to tax people for leaving the state.

'If you can charge people to leave, I don't see any reason why you can't charge somebody to come in the door,' said Goldfinch.
A victim of David Carrick has revealed how she was drugged, beaten and raped - before Sarah Everard's mother inspired her to come forward to help convict the sadistic cop.

The former police officer, 48, was jailed for a minimum of 30 years earlier this month for carrying out a string of 'violent and brutal' sex attacks after taking 'monstrous advantage' of at least a dozen women.

One of the victims has said the words of Ms Everard's mother - whose daughter was kidnapped, raped and murdered by another Met officer Wayne Couzens - made her determined to put Carrick behind bars.

The woman, who suffered at the hands of Carrick for 13 months, said she wanted to honour Ms Everard's memory.

She told The Sun: 'I tried to ignore what Carrick had done to me and didnt tell anyone. But I read the impact statement from Sarahs mother and it really got to me.

Carrick, who joined the Met in 2001 before becoming an armed officer with the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command in 2009, pleaded guilty to 49 charges, including 24 counts of rape.

The woman, who suffered at the hands of Carrick for 13 months, said she wanted to honour Ms Everard's memory

'After that I could not ignore what Carrick did. He was another police officer and I was worried he would kill someone next time.

'By coming forward I was also honouring Mrs Everard, and Sarahs memory.'

The victim's testimony encouraged other women to come forward, before the extent of Carrick's heinous offending was revealed.

Her bravery was later praised by the judge who sentenced Carrick to life imprisonment earlier this month, saying it was 'remarkable' how driven she had been to bring his crimes to light and how, in doing so, she had left others feeling able to act.

The woman, a divorcee, added: 'We spoke a couple of times on the phone before meeting and he was very charming.

'He was not my type but he said: "I am a policeman and you are safe with me". It reassured me and gave me a false sense of security.;

She recalled how they first met at a busy pub in St Albans in September 2020, where Carrick had booked a stay at a nearby Premier Inn.

He sent the victim a number of messages the following day, including asking her repeatedly to come and see him.

Carrick reportedly threatened to visit the woman at her workplace if she did not comply, before they met at the pub later that evening.

Sarah Everard (pictured) was kidnapped, raped and murdered by then serving Met Police officer Wayne Couzens

Wayne Couzens (pictured) was handed a whole life order for the murder of Sarah Everard in March 2021

Details of some of Carrick's horrific crimes were heard in court, including how he sent one of his victims a photograph of himself with a police-issue gun, saying: 'Remember I am the boss.'

Rushing to get to the pub after work, the woman asked Carrick to order her a Bacardi and Coke, but the former Met officer was sat with a bottle of wine in a cooler when she walked inside.

She said: 'I told him on the phone I didnt like wine but he gave it to me anyway. Looking back, I am 99 per cent sure he drugged it.

'I became drunk very quickly but it wasnt like the normal effect of alcohol. It was a weird feeling and my head felt like it was expanding.

'When I first arrived he got out his warrant card and said, "This is the proof that I am a police officer". He told me he wanted someone submissive and I said "thats not for me".

'Carrick told me he was known as "Bastard Dave" in the police because he was hard.'

The woman began to have further doubts about his character when he labelled one pub-goer a 's**g' who also worked for the force.

She also recalled how Carrick 'boasted about guarding Boris Johnson in hospital' when the former Prime Minister was suffering with Covid' and told of how he had shot one of the terrorists involved in the Borough Market attack.

Carrick only attended the aftermath of the 2017 terror attack and did not shoot anyone.

He is also said to have boasted of being the 'best shot' in his unit and was 'full of himself', the victim said.

The pair attended a second pub, before Carrick took the woman back to his hotel room.

She said: 'By then my legs were wobbling and I felt very unwell. He literally dragged me there. I recall thinking "this doesnt feel right" and seeing the hotel lights but I had no idea where I was.'

The woman recalled being called a 'disgusting b***h' and was 'incapable of standing'.

She woke up naked in an empty bath, but had suffered two broken ribs after being thrown into it.

Carrick, meanwhile, was lying naked on the bed and she only managed to escape when he fell asleep.

As she returned home, the woman said she fact Carrick was a police officer had discouraged her from contacting authorities about the evening.

To retain evidence, she knew not to bath, but felt she needed to 'wash him away' and went into work later the same day.

The former Met Police officer, pictured here in uniform and holding a gun, abused a dozen women over the course of nearly 20 years

David Carrick, pictured, was jailed for a minimum of 30 years after admitting to rapes and sexual offences against multiple women

But she was 'in a lot of pain' in the following days and began to isolate herself from family and friends as Covid began to spread across the UK.

The woman then became 'haunted' by the disappearance of Ms Everard in March 2021, before it later transpired she had been taken off the streets by Met Police officer Couzens and murdered.

She said: 'When Sarah was murdered by Couzens, it brought what happened to me back again. To this day, Sarahs face still haunts me.

'When Couzens was arrested for Sarahs murder I thought about reporting Carrick then, but I couldnt do it.

'I kept seeing Sarahs face in the papers and when the case went to court I tried to ignore it.'

When Ms Everard's mother told Couzens' sentencing that she was 'outraged' at how he had 'masqueraded' as an officer to get what he wanted, the woman said she was unable to ignore it.

Instead, the day after his sentencing on October 1, 2021, she called the police and explained to an operator what had taken place.

She received a call from a Hertfordshire Police officer and gave a full statement, before Carrick was arrested at his home in Stevenage later the same day.

The case was later dropped, but Carrick subsequently admitted responsibility for the evening.

He would go on to admit 49 charges, including 24 counts of rape, at Southwark Crown Court earlier this month.

Images were released for the first time showing a tiny cupboard that Carrick locked one of the woman in as a form of punishment, as well as a whip he used on the victim.

Carrick set up surveillance cameras which he used to monitor some of his victims at his home

Carrick's crimes were all carried out while serving with the force - he guarded sites including embassies and the Houses of Parliament, and completed training courses, including one on domestic abuse in 2005.

The woman added that she is 'angry and very bitter' towards the Met over failures to conduct proper checks - after it was revealed he had come to the attention of officers of the force.

The Met was forced to apologise and admit Carrick should have been rooted out earlier after it emerged he came to police attention over nine incidents - including allegations of rape, domestic violence and harassment - between 2000 and 2021, with all but one of the incidents relating to his behaviour towards women.

The woman, meanwhile, believes Carrick's offending would have continued until he killed someone.

She added: 'My advice to anyone in the same position is, dont be scared to come forward.'
Former New York City Police Department commissioner Ray Kelly is speaking out publicly for the first time about a Rikers Island inmate's plot to behead him and bomb the NYPD's police headquarters in 2007.

David Brown Jr., a 47-year-old Brooklyn felon, had wanted to hire a hitman to kill and dismember Kelly, who led the NYPD from 2002 to 2013.

Brown had been enraged by the November 2006 police killing of Sean Bell, who was shot on the morning of his wedding while unarmed.

Brown blamed Kelly for the incident and wanted him beheaded as punishment as well as bombing the NYPD headquarters at One Police Plaza. Brown was so determined that he was said to be willing to pay $165,000 to get the job done.

An undercover officer, Chuck Byam, who is now a retired 25-year NYPD veteran, was interviewed for a new A&E docu-series called 'Undercover: Caught on Tape,' which details how authorities foiled the 2007 scheme.

Former NYPD commissioner Ray Kelly has spoken out about a 2007 plot by Rikers Island inmate David Brown Jr. to behead him and bomb police HQ

Kelly recounted how Brown had been identified as the suspect and that he was in prison at the time on Rikers Island, so he felt relatively secure. The plot did not cause him too much anxiety

Kelly said that the chilling plot was ultimately foiled thanks to the work of the undercover officer, who he lauded as an unsung hero.

Kelly recounted how Brown, 47, had been identified and that he was in prison at the time, so he felt relatively secure and the plot did not cause him too much anxiety.

'We had this guy identified, and he was in prison,' Kelly, now 81, said in the documentary. 'I felt relatively secure. It really didn't jolt me that much. You probably don't want to hear that, but that's pretty much what it was.'

However, Kelly acknowledged that when confronted with the threat and the level of detail with which it contained still gave him cause for concern.

The threat was different from a more standard sinister-but-anonymous phone call, according to Kelly.

'The difference here was we knew who this individual was  We knew he was violent and we knew that he had money. He had a house that was worth at least $400,000, so it was different than the other threats. That's when we decided to use the undercover.' Kelly explained.

Undercover cop Byam had a pair of tape recorders in his pockets for the in-person meeting, during which he was recorded asking if he might be able to obtain explosives in order to blow up the NYPD headquarters, pictured above

Brown was a violent individual who had money and owned a house worth at least $400,000.

Authorities decided to try and use an undercover officer to investigate the plot.

Officer, Byam, went to Rikers Island on February 23, 2007, to meet Brown to arrange the hit.

Unbeknownst to Brown, Byam had a pair of tape recorders hidden in his pockets for the in-person meeting, during which he was recorded asking if he might be able to obtain explosives in order to blow up the NYPD headquarters.

'Well, what I need to do is have the police commissioner killed  I want him murdered,' Brown told Byam on tape.

'I just can't take it no longer. Every time something happens, how the police commissioner backs the police up. That kind of like got me frustrated to the point where I want him murdered,' Brown continued.

Brown said he wanted to feel like a terrorist and wanted them to feel like he was a 'mother f***ing terrorist.'

'I need the people to feel my wrath and my rage,' Brown told Byam. 'Every second of every day he lives, burns my soul. I take it personally every time he overlooks certain things that take place.'

Despite Brown's words, Byam concluded that the plot had nothing to do with any overseas terrorist group and was simply one man's vendetta.

The two reached an agreement on the payment, shook hands, with Byam leaving.

'This guy has got some balls.' Byam told A&E 'Not that he wants to kill another drug dealer, or a rival. He wants to kill the police commissioner of New York City. That's big. I don't see how you're comfortable with yourself wanting to take somebody's life.'

Brown was then rearrested while in jail and charged with two counts of solicitation, ultimately receiving an additional six years behind bars.

Brown had been enraged by the November 2006 police killing of Sean Bell, pictured, who was shot on the morning of his wedding while unarmed

Brown had previously been convicted in 2001 of trying to kill his wife and was serving time for violation of an order of protection for the same woman.

He had also spent seven years in prison for armed robbery between 1981 and 1988.

Byam said he was honored to have made a difference in ordinary, everyday New Yorkers' lives, although they would never know he was the one responsible for it.

'I made a difference in ordinary, everyday New Yorkers'  I made a difference in their lives. Although they'll never know I was the one responsible for it, I still feel good about the difference I've made in New York City,' Byam recounted.

Then-President Barack Obama sent him a congratulatory letter, and New York Senator Chuck Schumer sent him a flag that had flown over the nation's Capitol in his honor.

Kelly praised undercover police officers as unsung heroes who work in the darkness with few rewards.

'He did a great job,' Kelly said. 'You know, you don't think about those things in the normal course of business  but when you are confronted with something with all of those details, the specificity of the threat, then it gives you cause for concern.

'They are protecting all of us by really putting their lives on the line,' Kelly said. He also acknowledged that Byam did a great job and was glad that he was there to foil the plot against him.
She also vowed to remove 'right-wing' officers from their positions

Bass seeks to lower the qualifications for recruits to diversify the department

Mayor Karen Bass plans to reform the defunded LAPD by making it easier to join

Los Angeles' new mayor is seeking to lower the bar for new police department recruits and has pledged to oust officers with 'ring-wing' ties.

Democrat Karen Bass is moving quickly to recruit officers to the defunded Los Angeles Police Department by hiring a third party to study why some recruits fail in hopes of eliminating some qualifications, according to Fox News.

The mayor's goal to diversify the police department and lower the qualifications has been deemed 'dangerous' among LAPD union leaders as some aspiring officers are extremely unfit for the job.

'That's just a recipe for disaster,' Tom Saggau, spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Protective League, told the news outlet. 'We think lowering standards is a dangerous precedent.'

Other goals Bass plans to focus on include reducing the number of police-involved shootings and eliminating 'officers associated with right-wing domestic extremist organizations.'

Democrat Karen Bass is moving quickly to recruit officers to the defunded Los Angeles Police Department by hiring a third party to study why some recruits fail in hopes of eliminating some qualifications

The mayor's goal to diversify the police department and lower the qualifications has been deemed 'dangerous' among LAPD union leaders as some aspiring officers are extremely unfit for the job

Saggu told the news outlet those who fail to qualify as a new hire don't 'possess the mental fitness or the physical fitness ability to be a police officer.'

'If you have police officers that can't make minimum qualifications or attained minimum standards, for instance, there are recruits that have been in the academy that just can't score the minimum requirements for a physical fitness test,' Saggau told the news outlet.

'One hundred is the maximum score, 50 is acceptable. There are folks that are scoring under 10. That's just dangerous.'

If Bass proceeds to move forward with lowering qualifications, obstacles, including 'ethnic groups disproportionately left out of new officer training' will be removed.

Aside from lowering the guidelines to become an officer, Bass is also seeking to 'identify, discipline, and/or terminate officers associated with right-wing domestic extremist organizations,' according to the news outlet.

The Democrat mayor also plans to hire more homicide detectives amid staffing shortages and consider other policing options, including 'alternative response and community policing,' Bass told The Los Angeles Times.

'Mayor Bass sees the dire need for more officer,' Saggau said. 'The question is, how do you get there? And we are totally committed and completely supportive of civilianizing positions where police officers should be doing police work and civilians should be doing civilian work.'

The moves by Bass come nearly three years after the Los Angeles City Council voted to cut the Los Angeles Police Department's budget by $150million in 2020

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti (pictured) previously vowed to keep officer levels at the LAPD high, but appeared to waver as calls to defund the budget mounted

Other goals Bass plans to focus on include reducing the number of police-involved shootings and eliminating 'officers associated with right-wing domestic extremist organizations'

The moves by Bass come nearly three years after the Los Angeles City Council voted to cut the Los Angeles Police Department's budget by $150million in 2020 amid the George Floyd riots and protests.

The entirety of the 2020-2021 Los Angeles city budget is around 10.5billion, according to KCAL 9. The $150million slashed represents eight per cent of the almost $1.8billion LAPD budget geared exclusively towards policing.

At the time, The Los Angeles Times reported that the LAPD's hiring took the hit, plummeting the number of officers to just 9,757 by next summer. It is the lowest level of staffing at the LAPD since 2008.

The 12 to 2 vote affected overtime pay and reduced the number of employees to the lowest level in 12 years.

Maintaining a 10,000-officer staff had been a goal of Los Angeles officials after the department reached that number for the first time in 2013.

Former Mayor Eric Garcetti, who was in office at the time, previously vowed to keep staffing levels high.

It's unclear if Bass will seek to increase police funding as she lowers the qualification requirements for recruits.
A woman has narrowly escaped serious injury after being crushed by a collapsed roof while she was asleep - as the horrific incident draws attention to the dire issues faced by renters amid Australia's housing crisis.

Melissa Ware, 49, from New Zealand, was visiting her sister on the Gold Coast last October when she woke about 2am to a loud bang and the sensation of an 'enormous' weight pinning her to the bed.

In the pitch black, unable to see what was going on, she began to panic.

'I couldn't see anything until my sister and her husband opened the door to try to find out what the noise was, and a bit of light came into the room  they were shocked to find me laying under everything pleading for help,' Ms Ware told the Courier Mail.

A photo taken moments after the roof collapsed shows an anguished Ms Ware crying out in pain as she laid on the bed covered in rubble - only her head poking out from beneath the debris.

Melissa Ware was crushed by a collapsed roof at her sister's Gold Coast home in October (pictured)

Ms Ware suffered head, neck, and back injuries that required pain medication and physiotherapy.

She now struggles to get to sleep as she grapples with anxiety, nightmares, and hypervigilance in the wake of the incident.

But Ms Ware's furious sister says the cave in could have been prevented if the landlord had sign off on much-needed repairs on the Hollywell home.

She said she had contacted her rental property manager eight months earlier about the cracking and sagging ceiling in that bedroom - but even though a maintenance worker came in to provide a quote, the issue was not addressed.

'I kept contacting Ray White and asking them what was happening with it, but they kept saying they were waiting for a response from the landlord,' Ms Ware's sister, who does not want to be named, said.

'I was calling and emailing them for months, including just before my sister came to stay with us, but no one fixed anything. And this was after us raising the issue with them at every inspection we had over the three or four years we lived there.'

After the roof collapsed on Ms Ware, the property was deemed unsafe and they moved out soon after.

The family say the damaged roof was reported to the real estate agent eight months earlier

The family said it was also not the only time the roof had collapsed, with falling debris narrowly missing an elderly relative in February last year- when they first reported the problem.

About that time, Queensland was being smashed by heavy rain and flooding, with numerous reports of ceilings collapsing at homes and businesses in the state's southeast.

Ray White Runaway Bay principal Ali Mian said the agency was sorry to hear of Ms Ware's injuries.

'We discovered the issues with the ceiling during a routine inspection by the property manager,' he said.

'We advised the landlord of the maintenance issue and had been waiting for instructions from the owner to engage a tradesperson.

'We are sorry that someone's been hurt in this accident. The owner is now undertaking a full repair and renovation of their property's spare room.'

Slater and Gordon Public Liability lawyer Peter Adams said the incident showcases what can happen if tenants' concerns are neglected.

Single mum and her three kids forced to live in their car amid dire rental crisis after they were told the waiting list to get a house was three YEARS long: 'I feel like I've failed my children'

BY PADRAIG COLLINS FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

A single mum and her three children are living in a car as Australia's out-of-control rental crisis keeps getting worse.

Perth mum Kristin has applied for emergency housing, but was told there is a three-year waiting list.

'I feel like a mother that has failed her kids because I can't put a roof over their heads,' she told A Current Affair.

'It's not something the government should be allowing - a three-year wait for three children on the streets.'

Kristin is far from alone, with the crisis hitting people from all different age groups and incomes.

Single mother Kristin (pictured) and her three children are living in a car as Australia's out-of-control rental crisis keeps getting worse

Sydney woman Milly Bannister, 26, is also feeling the pinch.

Despite earning a good salary, she now fears how she'll pay her bills after her rent jumped a massive 35 per cent.

'That's $230 a week, almost $12,000 a year,' she said.

'For me, that's $6,000 of after-tax money and I am not getting any wage rise.'

She said she was feeling 'a lot of stress, disappointment and frustration'.

Ms Bannister lives in an apartment managed by Meriton - one of Australia's biggest construction companies that manages around 10,000 units across the nation.

She said apartment owners were pushing for big rental increases and six-month, not 12-month, leases as the market is hot and foreign students are coming back.

'Have you seen the Meriton scandal? It's absolutely cooked,' Ms Bannister said in a TikTok video.

Sydney woman Milly Bannister, 26, is feeling the pinch, despite earning a good salary

'Basically this shady email was leaked from Meriton bosses in head office to let all of their landlords know they need to be pushing rents as hard as possible and signing six month leases so they increase the rent more often.'

With a good job, though, she is in a more fortunate position than many others.

'It's hard, but I am going to suck it up and pay, because I don't want to be out there competing for other rentals,' she said.

Rent increases in mainland states in past 12 months State Monthly rise Yearly rise WA $180 $2,160 QLD $177 $2,124 VIC $169 $2,028 SA $158 $1,896 NSW $142 $1,704 Advertisement

'This case isn't extreme or unique though - it's happening to everyone and it's legal.'

Leo Patterson Ross, CEO of the Tenants' Union of NSW compared looking for a place to rent to a 'competitive bloodsport'.

'We're hearing every day from people who are applying for, sometimes, hundreds of properties and missing out.

'We're seeing lines of hundreds of people lining up for apartments,' he said, 'traipsing across the city, applying for place after place that they are not going to get.'

Vacancy rates across Australia are at an all-time low. In Sydney and Melbourne, just 1 per cent of rental properties are available to rent.

Brisbane's vacancy rate sits at 0.8 per cent. It's half that in Hobart, and in Perth and Adelaide it's worse, with just 0.3 per cent available - meaning just one out of every 300 rental properties can be rented at the moment.

The problem is spreading to the regions too, where rental availability has fallen to 0.8 per cent.

'It's actually regional towns where there's been a large influx (of people), that's where we've seen the biggest increase in people sleeping in really unsafe and unsuitable places,' said Mr Patterson Ross.
A disturbing photo of a plane wing that appears to have been haphazardly repaired with silver duct tape isn't as it seems with aviation experts offering a simple explanation into why it was plastered with the shiny patches.

A passenger snapped a photo of the tape, known as speed tape, that had been stuck along the wing of a plane flying out of Melbourne Airport.

Despite the passenger's fears, others were quick to assure the traveller, flying from Melbourne to Phuket, that the speed tape was simply on the wing to ensure any flaking paint didn't disrupt its aerodynamics.

Speed tape is common in the aviation industry and is used for minor repairs on aircraft - specifically for peeling or flaking paint.

It is an issue that has plagued Boeing 787s since they entered the market with the aeroplane manufacturer recently coming up with a new type of paint to ensure it stops happening.

A passenger had snapped a photo of the tape, known as speed tape, that had been stuck down across the wing of a plane flying out of Melbourne Airport

The tape used is an aluminum pressure-sensitive tape that can withstand high speeds and does not pose any safety risk.

US pilot and safety consultant John Nance said the tape was often used as a temporary measure to prevent any more wear and tear.

'It is not something that would be used to hold together two parts of the airplane,' he previously told Traveller.

'This is usually skin, but you don't want anything peeling back further than it might already have started peeling back.'

The Federal Aviation Administration also said in a statement that speed tape was used 'for temporary, minor repairs to nonstructural aircraft components'.

Paint peeling is common on the wings of Boeing 787 planes that are used by airlines all over the world

A spokesperson for Boeing earlier told aviation publication Simple: 'The peeling does not affect the structural integrity of the wing, and does not affect the safety of the flight'.

The aircraft company is also rolling out a new undercoat paint this year which will improve the longevity of paint on 787 wings.

In September last year a similar photo emerged of what was believed to be speed tape on the wing of a Qantas plane, however the airline did not confirm if it was one of their aircraft.
CEO says company is 'on track' to profit

Online retail giant Kogan claims it's 'on track' for a return to profit despite suffering close to $24million in losses.

The e-commerce retailer over-invested its stock in the previous financial year in an attempt to combat supply chain issues caused by Covid-19.

The company pre-released its results for the six months ended December 31 with revenue falling 34.3 per cent to $275.6million, while its statutory losses increased to $23.8million from $11.8million loss a year ago.

Kogan told its investors on Monday it was forced to heavily discount and sell some products at a loss as it worked to clear its over-stocked warehouse.

It also recorded a decrease in its warehouse inventory of $98.3million at the end of December, falling from $159.9million in the six months from June 30.

Kogan.com founder and chief executive Ruslan Kogan (pictured) said the company is 'on track' to profits despite recording a 23.8million loss in the six months from June 30, 2022

Kogan.com founder and chief executive Ruslan Kogan told the Australian Financial Review the company would move past its losses with shoppers buying the latest technology as they spend more time at home amid the rising cost of living.

'If you want the latest TV that can have all the latest apps, it can't be one that's from three years ago,' Mr Kogan told the publication.

'Then obviously people are spending more time at home if you've got cost-of-living pressures, and you're going out less, having a TV that's got all the latest apps and the best display quality becomes more and more important.'

He said the company was 'on track' to profitability after its inventory blowout and is keeping value-focused shoppers at the forefront.

Mr Kogan said he was working hard to win back investor confidence to give them 'exactly what we said we'll do over the last year.'

Kogan returned to profitability in January after recording earnings of $1.5million for the month.

The company is also in the middle of trying to send out orders from luxury furniture retailer Brosa after it bought the company when it went into liquidation.

Brosa went into liquidation on January 31 after plunging into voluntary administration late last year.

The collapsed business reportedly owed $24million including $10million in unfulfilled orders.

Kogan bought the remains of the Brosa business for just $1.5million and stuck a deal with administrators to deliver unfulfilled orders if stock was located in storehouses.

It was dubbed a 'white knight' for its rescue but customers have slammed Kogan as they still wait for the orders to be delivered with some complaining the online retailer is charging them delivery fees for items they already paid for.

Kogan was hailed as the 'white knight' when it bought the Brosa business after it was liquidated and promised to deliver unfulfilled customer orders (Brosa shop front shopfront in Melbourne)

Daily Mail Australia understands some customers have been sent a link and given 14 days to pay the 'reasonable' delivery cost.

Insolvency firm KordaMentha, which act as the administrators for Brosa, have sent emails to a several customers that their previously 'allocated stock' is now unaccounted for and its delivery will not be fulfilled.

A Melbourne customer, who did not want to be named, told Daily Mail Australia earlier this month half of her $7,500 order was classed as 'unallocated', including pieces of a modular couch.

'They [Kogan] sent me an email saying half of the couch is unallocated but we will send you what is allocated,' she said.

'Why would I want half a couch? I asked for a refund or at least a credit to which I'm still waiting on a response.'

Daily Mail Australia understands KordaMentha emailed Brosa customers that their orders were 'allocated stock' prior to conducting a stock count and reconciliation.

The stocktake revealed several items, which were believed to be in the Brosa warehouse, were not accounted for or received by Kogan.

Kogan.com does not own Brosa stock and only agreed to help deliver items after a stocktake was completed.

A spokesperson for Kogan.com told Daily Mail Australia transporting bulky items in Australia is expensive and the company is not profiting off delivery fees.

'Kogan sympathises with customers who are dealing with the fallout of how the Brosa business was previously managed by the prior owners,' Kogan said.

'Kogan has not received any proceeds from previous orders, however is doing everything it can to help get allocated stock to customers.

'Unfortunately the bulkier the item, the more it can cost to deliver especially to remote locations. Kogan has passed on the wholesale cost of each delivery with zero mark-up.'

Kogan urges all Brosa customers with 'unallocated' orders to process chargebacks with their banks.
NCAI said 'inappropriate' ad would now only be used in a 'historical context'

1970s ad was created by non-profit Keep America Beautiful who forfeited the rights to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)

The iconic 1970s 'Crying Indian' advert designed to stop littering has been officially retired over concerns it is insulting to Indigenous people.

The commercial, commissioned by non-profit Keep America Beautiful, shows a man in Native American attire shed a single tear at the sight of smokestacks against a scenic backdrop.

But this week Keep America Beautiful announced it was forfeiting the transmission rights to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) who said it would retire the ad and keep an eye out for any unauthorized use.

The award-winning commercial was an iconic piece of TV pop culture satirized by The Simpsons and South Park.

However it has long been accused of being offensive not least because the actor Iron Eyes Cody was not actually Native American.

The 'Crying Indian' shows actor Iron Eyes Cody shed a single tear at a smokestack being littered against a scenic backdrop

The commercial won a litany of awards and was satirized in a 1998 episode of The Simpsons titled 'Trash of the Titans'

The NCAI said the advert may still be used for 'historical context.'

'Keep America Beautiful wanted to be careful and deliberate about how we transitioned this iconic advertisement/public service announcement to appropriate owners, Noah Ullman, a spokesperson for the nonprofit, said.

'We spoke to several Indigenous peoples organizations and were pleased to identify the NCAI as a potential caretaker.'

The decision was welcomed by NCAI executive director Larry Wright Junior.

'NCAI is proud to assume the role of monitoring the use of this advertisement and ensure it is only used for historical context; this advertisement was inappropriate then and remains inappropriate today,' he said.

'NCAI looks forward to putting this advertisement to bed for good.'

When the ad first premiered in 1971, it was a sensation which made Iron Eyes Cody a household name.

He filmed three follow-up public service announcements and spent more than 25 years making appearances and visits to schools on behalf of the anti-litter campaign.

Cody, who was Italian American but claimed to have Cherokee heritage through his father, was typecast as a stock Native American character, appearing in over 80 films before his death in 1999.

Most of the time, his character was simply 'Indian,' 'Indian Chief' or 'Indian Joe.'

The commercial was long considered one of the best of all time and received a litany of awards.

In the mid-1970s the Ad Council noted: 'TV stations have continually asked for replacement films (of the commercial) because they have literally worn out the originals from the constant showings.'

In 1998, it was satirized in an episode of The Simpsons titled 'Trash of the Titans.'

And a 2014 episode of South Park titled 'Go Fund Yourself' also referenced the commercial.

But it came under increasingly heavy fire for its damaging and stereotypical depiction of Native Americans.

It was also unnerved environmentalists because Keep America Beautiful is composed of leading beverage and packaging corporations.

The non-profit was founded in 1953 by the American Can Company and the Owens-Illinois Glass Company before later being joined by Coca-Cola and the Dixie Cup Company.

Dr. Jennifer J. Folsom, a journalism and media communication professor at Colorado State University and a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, remembers watching the public service announcement as a child.

'At that point, every single person who showed up with braids and buckskins, on TV or anywhere in the movies, I glommed on to that because it was such a rare thing to see,' said Folsom, whose areas of study include Native American pop culture.

'I did see how people littered, and I did see how the creeks and the rivers were getting polluted.'

But as she grew up, Folsom noticed how media devoted little coverage to Native American environmental activists.

'Theres no agency for that sad so-called Indian guy sitting in a canoe, crying,' Folsom said.

'I think it has done damage to public perception and support for actual Native people doing things to protect the land and protect the environment.'

Cody is pictured in 1986 - 15 years after the advert first broadcast. He featured in three follow-up public service announcements and spent more than 25 years making public appearances and visits to schools on behalf of the anti-litter campaign

The commercial made Iron Eyes Cody a household name though his appearance sparked controversy as he was Italian-America

The ad was created by non-profit Keep America Beautiful which is composed of leading beverage and packaging corporations

She applauded Keep America Beautifuls decision as an 'appropriate move.'

Robert 'Tree' Cody, the adopted son of Iron Eyes Cody, said the advertisement had 'good intent and good heart' at its core.

'It was one of the top 100 commercials,' he said, adding it reminded him of spending time with his father.

'I remember a lot, even when he went on a movie set to finish his movies and stuff,'

'I remember going out to Universal (Studios), Disney, places like that.'

His wife, Rachel Kee-Cody, added: 'You know, times are changing as well. You keep going no matter how much it changes.'

She added she was 'disappointed' though 'it'll pass.'
Lee Pil-soo, center, the head of the Korean Medical Association, speaks during a rally in front of the National Assembly, Sunday, to protest the Assembly's move to legislate the Nursing Act. Yonhap



By Jun Ji-hye



A conflict is intensifying between nurses and other medical workers, including doctors, over the National Assembly's move to pass a bill legislating the Nursing Act.



Independent from the Medical Services Act, the proposed nursing law would clarify the scope of nurses' work and improve their working conditions, aiming to resolve nurses' frequent complaints over ambiguities in their roles and duties as stipulated in the Medical Services Act that they claim have increased their workload.



Nurses, however, seem to be the only group welcoming this legislation, as other medical workers' groups such as the Korean Medical Association (KMA)  comprised of doctors  are bitterly opposed.



The objectors are stepping up their protest as the bill, backed by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) which controls more than half of the 300-seat Assembly, is likely to be passed if it is put to an actual vote in a plenary session.



In their escalating protest, the KMA, together with nursing assistants, radiology technicians, dentists, emergency medical technicians and care workers, held a large-scale rally in front of the National Assembly, Sunday.



"Politicians have been one-sided as they accepted opinions of a certain group only to deepen conflicts in medical circles," said Lee Pil-soo who heads the KMA. "We will give all-out efforts to fight until the Assembly disposes the bill."



The doctors' group raised concerns that the law would allow nurses to intervene in the duties of physicians, citing that the new law contains content saying nurses can perform their duties in "local communities."



Doctors say, according to the Medical Services Act, that medical services should be performed only within medical institutions.



If the new law is passed with that wording, it would make it possible for nurses to perform medical services on their own even outside hospitals.



Other medical groups such as the Korean Licensed Practical Nurses Association (KLPNA) comprised of nursing assistants  claimed the new law would offer privileges to a certain group of medical professionals.



"The Nursing Act will rattle the basis of the country's healthcare system as it would give too much authority to nurses and turn away from other professionals in medical circles," said Gwak Ji-yeon, who heads the KLPNA.



On the other hand, nurses call for the law's prompt enactment, saying it will be necessary in preparation for the aging of society and periodic appearance of infectious diseases.



"It is improper to jump to hasty conclusions that the new law will allow nurses to open medical facilities in local communities and to block the passage of the law," said Choi Hoon-wha from the Korean Nurses Association.


Donald Trump is calling for Mark Zuckerberg to be prosecuted amid revelations a group linked to him gave $2 million to the Georgia elections board.

The former president laid out the allegations against the Meta CEO on his Truth Social platform on Sunday while sharing an article about the controversial donation.

'He [Zuckerberg] cheated on the Election(s). The whole system is RIGGED. Why isn't he being prosecuted? The Democrats only know how to cheat. America isn't going to take it much longer!' he wrote.

He then went on to repeat his false claims that the 2020 vote was rigged against him and raised concerns it could happen again.

'Crooked Democrat Prosecutors, many of them Racists in Reverse, are trying to steal a second Presidential Election. They did it in 2020, and we're not going to let them do it again in 2024. MAGA!!!', Trump then wrote on his Truth Social platform.

Writing on Truth Social on Sunday, Trump laid out the allegations against Zuckerberg clearly

Trump then went on to repeat his false claims that the 2020 vote was rigged against him.

Donald Trump called for Mark Zuckerberg (pictured together at the White House in 2019) to be prosecuted after reports a group linked to him gave $2 million to the Georgie elections board

Trumps anger in part stems from an allegation that a Georgia elections board may have violated state law for accepting a $2 million from a Zuckerberg-linked group, U.S. Alliance for Election Excellence.

Conservatives have long accused the tech mogul's social media platform of censoring right-wing voices as part of its campaign against misinformation.

A watchdog, the Honest Elections Project, is now calling for a full investigation into the DeKalb County Board of Registration and Elections for what they say is a 'flagrant and egregious' violation of a state ban on private funding.

The ban was put in place after accusations that donors used their money to push their left-wing agenda ahead of the 2020 elections.

It was spurred by anger and suspicion on the right that Zuckerberg's money benefited Democrats in 2020.

The watchdog is now calling for the state attorney general, secretary of state and state elections board to set up a probe and investigate the cash donation.

'We're now fairly well convinced this is an attempt to do two things: to get around those bans on private funding by doing either what they did in DeKalb County, by looking for loopholes and end-a rounds, doing what they can to get money into these offices; or by doing what I think they feel is even more important work, which is to pump influence into these offices,' Honest Elections Project Executive Director Jason Snead told Fox News.

'They are trying to gather data and reshape the way these offices function so that they essentially become left-wing outposts for progressive voting reform. All of what they do is a ruse in order to get into these offices and accomplish that goal.'

Trump took to Truth Social on Sunday to say 'the whole system is RIGGED. Why isn't he being prosecuted?'

Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan (pictured in 2020 at the NASA Ames Research Center) gave more than $400 million to election offices including $2 million to the DeKalb County Board of Registration and Elections in Georgia

Part of the funding which came in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic helped to help jurisdictions deal with the pandemic by providing ballot drop boxes, voting equipment, additional manpower, protective gear for poll workers and public education campaigns on new voting methods, among other expenses.

Zuckerberg's money was largely distributed through a nonpartisan foundation that had liberal roots.

Some conservative groups cite analyses that the money went disproportionately to Democratic-leaning counties resulting in a higher turnout.

'This massive influx of funding  which ultimately topped $400 million  was met with heavy criticism driven by post-election analysis that revealed the money was overwhelmingly funneled to Democrat-leaning jurisdictions,' a letter by the Honest Elections Project letter states.

A spokesperson for Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan said the grant was a 'one-time donation given the unprecedented nature of the crisis.'

'During the 2020 election, Mark and Priscilla made a one-time donation to help address the unprecedented challenge of ensuring Americans could safely vote during the height of the pandemic,' Brian Baker told Fox.

In some states, including Georgia, newly introduced laws now require all donations to local election offices to be distributed by the secretary of state.

The issue of Zuckerberg's donations Trump had been something of a bugbear to the former president.

He told the Conservative Political Action Conference in Orlando, Florida last year that there was something amiss with the amount of money Zuckerberg funneled towards groups being used to support the work of people running the elections.

Zuckerberg's spokesman Brian Baker said the donation was to help Americans vote safely during the height of the pandemic but conservatives say funds went disproportionately to Democratic-leaning counties resulting in a higher turnout

Last year, at CPAC, Trump told suggested there was something amiss with the amount of money Zuckerberg funneled towards groups being used to support the work of people running the elections.

Conservatives have long bemoaned how the majority was channeled to Democratic counties, where turnout increased.

'Let's do a full forensic audit of the $417 million given by Mark Zuckerberg - who used to come to the White House and kiss my ass - they spent to take over local election offices in key Democrat counties,' Trump said in February 2022.

'And I believe you're going to be hearing a lot of it. You know if you're a person that wants to make a contribution you're allowed to give less than $6,000 otherwise they put you in jail,' Trump explained.

'He gave $417 million. What the hell is going on?' he demanded to know.

'These people - they call them mules - ballots in Georgia and other swing states were trafficked and sold on an unprecedented scale and the brutality ... it was just incredible what took place that we have it on tape,' he said.

Elections are more expensive in populous urban areas, and especially more so in 2020, when states scrambled to shift to mail voting to deal with the pandemic.

Metropolitan areas had to buy expensive equipment to open and sort mail ballots, a task that smaller, more GOP-leaning counties could do by hand or with less gear.

Republican-leaning areas were also already discouraged from accepting election grants due to conservative suspicion of Zuckerberg.

The Republican attorney general of Louisiana in 2020 ordered his state's election offices to turn down grants from the nonprofit, the Center for Tech and Civic Life, which distributed $350 million of the Zuckerberg money.

Every election department that applied, received funding,' said CTCL's executive director, Tiana Epps-Johnson, adding that the distribution of the money 'reflects those who chose to apply.'
Anthony Albanese was pictured having drinks with a senior ABC TV personality and top Labor figures after becoming the first sitting Prime Minister to walk at Sydney's Mardi Gras parade.

Mr Albanese was at the helm of the Rainbow Labor float on Saturday night, marching alongside his partner Jodi Haydon, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek and state Labor leader Chris Minns.

Hours later, the PM could be seen rubbing shoulders with bigwigs at the national broadcaster's post-parade celebration - with a photo showing Mr Albanese holding a beer while deep in conversation with veteran ABC broadcaster Fran Kelly.

While Mr Albanese's predecessor Scott Morrison never attended the parade, his senior paramedic brother Alan joined his colleagues in marching down the street to support diversity and inclusion in the ranks of Ambulance NSW.

Anthony Albanese is pictured in a grey button-up shirt, standing next to the ABC's Fran Kelly

A NSW Ambulance spokeswoman said the presence of Mr Morrison - the director of education for the service - was an example of how it supports a diverse workforce.

'NSW Ambulance prides itself on encouraging and supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce,' she said.

'As part of that, senior leaders participate in the Mardi Gras parade each year to ensure all staff feel accepted and valued in NSW Ambulance, regardless of their gender identity or sexuality.

'We also serve a very diverse community, and ensuring everyone feels safe to call us when they need help is paramount.'

Mr Morrison's Pentecostal brother Scott voted against gay marriage during the postal plebiscite in 2017.

Former prime minister Scott Morrison is pictured, left, with his older brother Alan Morrison

Alan Morrison (pictured at the Mardi Gras on Saturday, bottom right) works with the NSW Ambulance and took part in the parade to show support for diversity and inclusion

Meanwhile, Mr Albanese said on Saturday that he has marched in the parade for decades - having first taken part in 1983, five years after Mardi Gras' inception as a gay rights protest.

'It's unfortunate that I am the first (prime minister to march), but this is a celebration of modern Australia. We're a diverse, inclusive Australia and that's a good thing,' he told the ABC.

'People want to see that their government is inclusive and represents everyone, no matter who they love, no matter what their identity, no matter where they live. We need to be a country that respects everyone for who they are.'

Mr Albanese said partygoers needed to pay tribute to the 78ers, the Mardi Gras' first marchers, 'who were thrown in jail for the simple fact of who they were because they happened to be gay of lesbian'.

'We need to continue to argue for equality.'
Shipment of contaminated waste from the site of a fiery train derailment earlier this month in eastern Ohio near the Pennsylvania state line will resume Monday to two approved sites in the state, according to federal environmental authorities.

EPA-certified facilities able to accept some of the waste had been identified, which meant shipments could restart Monday, Region 5 administrator Debra Shore, of the Environmental Protection Agency, said Sunday.

The announcement came a day after the Environmental Protection Agency ordered Norfolk Southern to 'pause' shipments from the site of the February 3 derailment in East Palestine to allow additional oversight measures about where waste was shipped.

'All of this is great news for the people of East Palestine and the surrounding community, because it means cleanup can continue at a rapid pace,' she said.

Some liquid and solid waste had already been taken to sites in Michigan and Texas.

Shipment of contaminated waste from the site of a fiery train derailment earlier this month in eastern Ohio near the Pennsylvania state line will resume Monday. Pictured: the site on February 24

The announcement came a day after the Environmental Protection Agency ordered Norfolk Southern to 'pause' shipments from the site of the February 3 derailment in East Palestine to allow additional oversight measures about where waste was shipped

Some of the liquid waste will be sent to a facility in Vickery, Ohio, for disposal in an underground injection well, Shore said.

Norfolk Southern will also begin shipping solid waste to an incinerator in East Liverpool, Ohio, and additional solid waste disposal locations were being sought, according to shore.

The Ohio governor's office said Saturday night that five of the 20 truckloads (approximately 280 tons) of hazardous solid waste had been returned to East Palestine after 15 truckloads were disposed of at a Michigan hazardous waste treatment and disposal facility.

Shore said material shipped out to sites in other states, but later returned to East Palestine, would now be shipped to the two Ohio sites.

Toxic waste from the wreckage will be sent to Vickery and Liverpool in Ohio. Two people were seen testing the pH of the water from the Leslie Run creek in East Palestine on Friday

Some liquid and solid waste had already been taken to sites in Michigan and Texas. Pictured: water from the creek being tested

Thousands of residents in East Palestine were ordered to evacuate at the time of the wreckage. Pictured: two people testing the PH of a creek near the crash site

Toxic chemicals were seen floating on the surface of Leslie Run creek on Friday, weeks after the crash

All of the rail cars except for the 11 cars held by the National Transportation Safety Board have been removed from the site, which will allow excavation of additional contaminated soil and installation of monitoring wells to check for groundwater contamination, said Anne Vogel, director of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.

No one was injured when 38 Norfolk Southern cars derailed in a fiery, mangled mess on the outskirts of town, but as fears grew about a potential explosion due to hazardous chemicals in five of the rail cars, officials evacuated the area.

They later opted to release and burn toxic vinyl chloride from the tanker cars, sending flames and black smoke billowing into the sky again.

Federal and state officials have repeatedly said it's safe for evacuated residents to return to the area and that air testing in the town and inside hundreds of homes hasn't detected any concerning levels of contaminants.

The state says the local municipal drinking water system is safe, and bottled water is available for those with private wells.

Despite those assurances, many residents have expressed a sense of mistrust or have lingering questions about what they have been exposed to and how it will impact the future of their families and communities.

On Friday, President Joe Biden directed federal agencies to go door-to-door in East Palestine, Ohio, to check on families affected by the toxic train derailment.

President Joe Biden was at a loss for words when explaining to reporters why he has yet to visit East Palestine, Ohio, three weeks after the toxic train derailment

On Friday, Biden directed employees to get to as many homes as possible by Monday. Pictured: a drone shot shows portions of the derailment

A resident displays a mannequin on their porch in East Palestine, Ohio, as cleanup from the February 3 Norfolk Southern train derailment continues

Under Bidens order, teams from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Emergency Management Agency will visit homes.

Workers will ask how residents are doing, see what they need and connect them with appropriate resources from government and nonprofit organizations, the White House said.

The 'walk teams' are modeled on similar teams following hurricanes and other natural disasters.

Biden directed employees to get to as many homes as possible by Monday. Officials said the immediate goal was to visit at least 400. The president said he currently has no plans to personally visit Ohio.

Biden on Friday rejected the notion that his administration hasnt been present in providing assistance in a bizarre exchange as he left the White House to spend the weekend at his Delaware home.

'We were there two hours after the train went down. Two hours,' Biden said at the White House. 'Ive spoken with every single major figure in both Pennsylvania and in Ohio. And so the idea that were not engaged is simply not there.'

But Democrats - including blundering Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg - have been accused of initially playing the disaster down.

They were embarrassed into taking it more seriously after a well-publicized visit to the site by former President Donald Trump earlier this week.

Buttigieg told reporters that if the former president  and current Republican presidential candidate  felt strongly about increased rail safety efforts, 'one thing he could do is express support for reversing the deregulation that happened on his watch.'

Republicans are framing the incident as a moral failing at the hands of the Biden administration, noting Buttigiegs failure to visit the site until nearly three weeks after the wreck.
Twitter has laid off another 200 employees, around 10 percent of its remaining workforce, in the latest round of job cuts since Elon Musk took over last October.

The layoffs, announced Saturday, bring Twitter's workforce down to under 2,000 - a sharp fall from the 7,500 employed when the billionaire first took over.

On Sunday, Musk Tweeted: 'Hope you have a good Sunday. First day of the rest of your life.'

Saturday's cuts targeted product managers, data scientists and engineers and include product manager and Musk devotee Esther Crawford who led the launch of paid subscription service Twitter Blue.

Crawford famously backed Musk's 'extremely hardcore' Twitter 2.0 culture when he first took over, and was pictured on the office floor in a sleeping bag with a sleeping mask in November 2022.

Twitter owner Elon Musk axed another 200 employees - roughly 10 percent of his remaining staff - from the social media platform at the weekend

Product Manager Esther Crawford was seen sleeping on the office floor in November 2022

Musk shot off a tweet that some are saying is a cryptic nod toward those who were fired

Twitter user Richard Heart responded to Musk's post, saying: 'Except for those where today is their last.'

The layoffs impacted the largest number of people at the company since half the company was laid off in November last year.

Employees discovered they were set to lose their jobs after they found themselves unable to log in to their emails and work computers.

Musk told employees during a meeting in late November that no more plans for staff reductions were being made.

At the time, Musk defended the decision to fire 3,700 people, saying: 'There is no choice when the company is losing over $4mn/day.'

He defended the decision, saying that all of those who were fired were offered three months of severance, '50% more than legally required'.

But staff suspected another wave of cuts was coming this month after they suddenly lost access to their Slack channel last week.

On Saturday night, some found they had been logged out of their emails and laptops.

The latest cuts primarily hit product managers including Crawford, as well as data scientists and engineers who worked on machine learning and site reliability, according to the New York Times.

Staff took to an anonymous platform for verified workers to detail the cuts as they unfolded at the weekend.

'People receive email at 2am on Saturday and access cut immediately. This will go down as one of the most extreme layoff in entire corporate history,' read a post on Blind.

The poster claimed layoffs hit the project management department the hardest and were spread across human relations, sales and marketing, engineering and finance.

Crawford, who before joining Twitter founded a small screen-sharing and video chat app called Squad, which Twitter acquired in 2020, was among those laid off.

Haraldur Thorleifsson, who created the design studio Ueno, which the company bought in 2021, was also removed from his position at Twitter.

Martijn de Kuijper, a senior project manager, said he found out about lay off after being locked out of his email account.

The dismissal of much of the product team has led some to speculate that Musk is preparing to bring in entirely new teams.

Musk flagged changes in November to turn Twitter into a more hardcore work environment, warning staff they will need to be on board or leave the company.

The billionaire has been shrewd and direct about the financial turmoil facing the company and made clear prior to his official acquisition that cost-cutting would be the number one priority.

Employees at the time were told they needed to sign a pledge to be able to stay on in their roles. Staff received an email that read: 'If you are sure that you want to be part of the new Twitter, please click yes on the link below.'

Esther Crawford - Musk devotee and someone who had committed to the new hardcore way of life at Twitter - was among those who were shown the door over the weekend

It linked to an online form, in which Musk told employees that if they did not sign by 5pm Eastern time on Thursday they would get three months of severance pay.

Twitter corporate headquarters is seen in San Francisco, California on on November 04, 2022 - just as the period of chaotic layoffs began to unfold

During todays launch of @TwitterBlue the SF team experienced two literal fire drills. The first one happened at HQ and led us to a Starbucks where we kept rolling out the release, then the coffee shop had its own fire drill  sending us back to HQ to finalize the roll out.  pic.twitter.com/bYsJdZyVXs  Esther Crawford  (@esthercrawford) December 13, 2022

Following that episode, the picture of Crawford laying on a brightly lit conference room floor went viral with the hashtag #SleepWhereYouWork attached.

Many online mocked her, saying sleeping at the office points to an obviously unhealthy relationship with work and that she would likely be fired within weeks anyhow.

As news of her firing broke, Crawford expressed her feelings on the platform.

She wrote: 'The worst take you could have from watching me go all-in on Twitter 2.0 is that my optimism or hard work was a mistake.

'Those who jeer & mock are necessarily on the sidelines and not in the arena. I'm deeply proud of the team for building through so much noise & chaos.'

Many Twitter users logged back on to congratulate those who had been correct about predicting Crawford's demise at the company.

In November, Twitter user moonpolysoft said: 'Look, you're gonna feel pretty silly about this once you get canned with 0 severance.'

User John Hamburger Jr replied yesterday to say: 'This just happened'
A stand-alone garage has sold for almost four times its asking price at auction, in yet another sign Australia's property crisis is spiralling out of control.

The approximately 55 square metre garage in Melbourne's eastern beachside suburb of St Kilda was put under the hammer with a starting price of $100,000 but ended up fetching a whopping $391,000.

Real estate agent Andrew Turner, who sold the Grey St property, told Daily Mail Australia the winning bidder was going to keep using it as a garage as there is no off-street on the residential road.

'The person who bought it is a car enthusiast,' Mr Turner said.

'He wants to sit a classic car in there. He's been looking for a while and he's zeroed in on this.'

Real estate agent Andrew Turner, who sold the Grey St property, told Daily Mail Australia the winning bidder was going to keep using it as a garage as there is no off-street on the residential road (pictured)

A garage in the eastern Melbourne seaside suburb of St Kilda has sold for a whopping $391,000 after going under the hammer with an asking price of $100,000

The garage, which sits at the end of a driveway, has a high ceiling, exposed timber beams and brick walls with a concrete floor.

It is not connected to sewerage, water or electricity but this did not deter those desperate for a place to call their own.

'We thought it would go to a first home buyer, in fact that was the bulk of the enquiry,' Mr Turner said.

'There's a lot of first home buyers that obviously saw this is an opportunity to get into the market place.

'I think people are now thinking outside the square.'

Mr Turner said the garage had previously been used just for storage but the owners of the adjoining house had decided they didn't need it anymore.

He showed about 40 groups through for inspection and said the interest in the small unique property had been 'absolutely amazing'.

'It certainly has attracted a lot of attention, not only locally and nationally but globally as well,' Mr Turner said.

The listing for the garage, approximately 55 sqm, attracted interest from interstate buyers and investors but mostly from young couples and first homebuyers

'I've had enquiries from the States, Poland and Germany.'

'There were buyers there who just wanted it purely for storage.

'I thought $100,000 just for storage, wow.

'There were a couple of artists who were interested as well, for a studio it would have been perfect, so that makes sense.'

Mr Turner said he'd only sold once sold lone garage before, which sent for $645,000 in 2020 in the inner Melbourne suburb of Albert Park.

However, because this latest sale had been 'such a one-off' it had been difficult to price.

'We looked high and low to see if any other garages had been sold because we need comparable sales, there are no comparable sales,' he said.

Mr Turner said he was a little disappointed the garage did not go to a first home buyer.

A garage (pictured left at the end of the driveway) in St Kilda, Melbourne will be used by a car enthusiast

'I was looking forward to it to see what a home buyer would have done with it,' he said.

'In a year's time or two years' time it would have been interesting to go back and follow up.'

The median unit price in St Kilda is $567,070 and $1.55m is the median house price.

Property prices in the Melbourne real estate market have fallen to levels not seen since mid-2021, however they are still 17.2 per cent higher than prior to the Covid pandemic.
Controversial activist Yassmin Abdel-Magied has weighed in on independent senator Lidia Thorpe's Mardi Gras stunt, tweeting that her antics at the Sydney parade made her a 'legend.'

The ex-Greens senator made a scene on Saturday night, laying down in front of a gay pride float and briefly blocking the parade in a demonstration that was seemingly aimed at police officers.

Thorpe was widely condemned for her actions - with radio host Ben Fordham describing her as 'unfit' for office - but she did garner praise from Abdel-Magied, who tweeted: 'What a f***en' legend.'

Her tweet has drawn a variety of responses, with former high-profile escort turned author Amanda Goff, aka Samantha X, asking simply: 'In what ways is she such a legend?'

Another person quipped: 'Yep. In her own head. Didnt do much for whatever shes fighting for'.

Abdel-Magied tweeted her praise from London, where she has been based since leaving Australia following her own controversy almost six years ago.

Controversial activist Yassmin Abdel-Magied tweeted her support for Senator Lidia Thorpe's weekend protest at Mardi Gras

Yassmin Abdel-Magied's tweet posted her approval of the rogue senator's actions - calling Thorpe 'a f***en legend'

On Anzac Day 2017, Abdel-Magied wrote 'LEST.WE.FORGET. (Manus, Nauru, Syria, Palestine...)' on social media, which referenced Australia's refugee detention islands and then recent controversial conflicts.

The message on Abdel-Magied's Facebook page appropriated a saying common at remembrance services to honour fallen soldiers in war and lit a firestorm of controversy.

The Sudanese-born writer, social activist and engineer - a onetime Young Queenslander of the Year in 2010 and Queensland Australian of the Year - was virtually drummed out of the country.

Once regular ABC panelist on shows like Q&A, Abdel-Magied was subjected to a petition calling for her sacking and eventually left Australia for the United Kingdom in 2017 to work and study.

Abdel-Magied said she was subjected to daily death threats on social media as well as abusive telephone calls. Last year, she told a London media outlet that she remained traumatised by the abuse, and she would not be returning to Australia.

Ms Abdel-Magied's tweet came as it emerged that Thorpe apparently got mixed up and threw herself in front of a youth charity truck instead of the police float during her protest.

Thorpe appeared to hold two separate protests in Sydney on Saturday before lying down twice in Mardi Gras parade in front of the wrong float

Lidia Thorpe on her first lie-down in Oxford Street, apparently mistaking a float for gay and lesbian youth charity for the federal or state police truck

The former Greens senator, who defected from the party earlier this month to become an independent, drew boos from the crowd with her actions on Oxford St.

Instead of obstructing the Australian Federal Police or NSW police float as she planned, Thorpe laid down in the path of the QLife truck representing the LGBTIQ community's anonymous hotline and the Twenty10 youth charity.

It can also be revealed she pulled the same stunt, which brought the parade to a standstill, twice before being unceremoniously booted from the event.

New photos, video footage and descriptions of Thorpe's attention-seeking clash have emerged since she was ousted from the parade on Saturday night for breaching safety and participation guidelines.

Responding to Thorpe's extraordinary actions, 2GB announcer Ben Fordham served a brutal take-down on Monday, saying it was a 'whole new low for the rogue Senator'.

'Once again she has proven she is unfit for public office, that's the reality,' he said.

'Even though you've got police officers who for decades now have been part of the Mardi Gras trying to send a message to the gay and lesbian community that they're on their side, Lidia Thorpe doesn't want them there.'

Under the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 2023 Code of Conduct, 'threatening or aggressive behaviour, both verbally and physically' is not permitted and participants must obey instructions of SGLMG staff, security, volunteers, NSW Police and emergency services.

The QLife float for a gay and lesbian helpline and the Twenty10 youth charity was directly behind the federal police float and when Thorpe obstructed it, parade goers began to boo her

A timeline of Lidia Thorpe's actions on Saturday reveals she delivered a firebrand speech to fellow members of the Pride in Protest group's No Pride in Genocide float some time before the parade began at 8pm.

She said she was marching 'not only for First Peoples' but 'for people who want to love the f*** who they want to love' and posed with a sign saying: 'Stop police attacks on queers, women and blacks. Queers say, Treaty Now, Cops out of Mardi Gras.'

The event's 12,500 marchers and 200-plus floats then began moving, with the federal and state police entering the procession around 9pm.

Daily Mail Australia then watched Thorpe crash into the police part of the parade, holding her arms crossed above her head and yelling 'f*** the police'.

When police kept on moving, she escalated her protest and lay down on her back directly in front of a truck that was next in the queue.

As the crowd began to boo Thorpe, two police officers tried to get her up and move her on, as she pointed at an officer and gesticulated to him to back off.

Lidia Thorpe confronts a cop during the parade after two police floats entered the queue of trucks with her ramping up her protest to object any police presence, which is compulsory under SGLMG guidelines

Instead of constructing police, Thorpe lay in front of the float representing gay and lesbian mental health support services include Twenty10 (above) which is for young people

Another officer tried to get her to move on from the front of the float which belonged to QLife, and sported a large lit-up sign on its back promoting the Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service NSW's helpline and 'celebrating 50 years of GLCS NSW/Phone-a-Friend'.

UK visitor Alex Day, who filmed Thorpe's antics, thought she was just 'a drunken weirdo'.

Moments later, Thorpe lay down on the ground again, further away from the QLife truck, surrounded by three officers and with the crowd again booing her.

One participant on the truck Thorpe mistook for a police float told Radio 2GB: 'I was marching with them. We were directly behind the police'.

QLife operates Twenty10, which provides housing, counselling and mental health support for young gay people in Sydney.

It merged with GCLS in 2012 to offer free programs and safe spaces to 'people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or gender diverse, intersex, queer, asexual or those who are questioning their identity'.

As an entrant in the parade, Thorpe and the group with which she was marching, Pride in Protest, agree to comply with operational, safety and logistics rules under the SGLMG Entrant Terms and Conditions.

On Sunday, Thorpe said she was 'proud' of her protest at the Mardi Gras .

'Black and brown trans women started the first pride march as a protest against police violence,' she wrote on Twitter.

'Today, we still face violence from police. Proud to have joined the #PrideInProtest float in Sydney to say #NoPrideInGenocide, #NoPrideInPrisons and #NoCopsInPride.'

Senator Thorpe was later pictured lying on her back in front of a float as it tried to travel down Oxford Street as two police officers asked her to move on amid 'boos' from the crowd

Footage of her protest circulated around social media on Sunday morning with her antics drawing plenty of criticism.

'She's zero respect for LGBTQIA people. The woman is a disgrace!' one wrote.

Another added: 'Is there anywhere that Lidia Thorpe can go and just act like a normal human being?

'Is it really that hard to conduct yourself in a decent manner??'

'In a desperate attempt for attention & relevance, activist Lidia Thorpe lays down in front of #MardiGras2023 parade float preventing it from moving forward, scuffles with police & allegedly yelled 'F*** the police',' a third person wrote.

'A total disgrace to elected office!'

Daily Mail Australia contacted Ms Thorpe for comment.

One Mardi Gras attendee who witnessed the incident told Daily Mail Australia: 'She came out of nowhere, it took a few seconds for us to realise what was going on.

'I don't know how she got into the parade but she ran after the cops as they marched screaming 'f*** the police' at them and towards the crowd.

'She really got in their faces when she caught up, like inches away. Not what we expected to see tonight.

'Pride is supposed to be about unity but she was the only one there making it about something else. Shocking, really.'

Senator Thorpe wore Aboriginal colours and held a 'No Pride in Genocide' sign to the iconic parade on Saturday night
A politician is leading the charge to legalise cannabis as a tribute to his son who took his own life a day after revealing he was abused as a child.

Former NSW Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham lost his boy Eden aged just 23 last August after a long struggle with depression and drug addiction.

Eden was found dead in bushland after telling his parents he 'suffered the most evil abuse' at the hands of a relative before he was even a teenager.

Mr Buckingham said 'every day was a struggle' since his son's suicide, and he didn't want another family to go through what his did.

'It's been, and will continue to be, a dark and and tragic circumstance. I love my son, I miss him every day,' he told Daily Mail Australia in a tearful interview.

Former Greens party member Jeremy Buckingham's son Eden, 23, (pictured) took his own life last August a day after revealing he had been abused by a relative

Mr Buckingham (pictured) said 'every day was a struggle' since his son's suicide, and he didn't want another family to go through what his did

'You've gotta keep living and I want to do some things in his memory to help other people in similar situations because the tragedy of youth suicide and mental health in this country is chronic, and we believe cannabis can be one of the solutions.'

Mr Buckingham on Monday announced he would stand for the NSW Legislative Council at the election on March 25 as part of the Legalise Cannabis Party.

Eden's death prompted his return to politics after four years as he hopes to provide an alternative to opiates for young people suffering mental illness and chronic pain.

'The struggle my son had with his mental health issues was very, very difficult and he was on various medications, opiates, that I don't think did him any good whatsoever,' he said.

Eden battled with mental health issues for many years and dulled the pain with drugs and booze, but his family had no idea of the cause.

'We didn't realise he had this terrible trauma and abuse when he was very young,' Mr Buckingham said.

'People disclose these things and feel like they've come to a dead end and they take drastic action.

'Eden had his issues with substance abuse and alcohol, but that shouldn't be the choice, we've got to do better as a society and we need a rational approach, not one based on fearmongering.

'He didn't feel like he could live with it, it's just unbelievable, and I feel for everyone who's going through that trauma, and their families.'

Eden (right) battled with mental health issues form many years and dulled the pain with drugs and booze, but his family had no idea the cause was his abuse by a relative

Eden (pictured) was found dead in bushland after telling his parents he 'suffered the most evil abuse' at the hands of a relative before he was even a teenager

Why Jeremy Buckingham says NSW should jump at legalising cannabis 'The government makes a fortune out of alcohol and tobacco taxes, and there's incredible harm from that. 'When was the last time you saw two stoned people having a punch-up in a car park? Never. 'But how many people who've had 14 cans of rum have you seen having a ding-dong in the Maccas car park?' Advertisement

Mr Buckingham said grieving Eden's death with his wife Crystal and eldest son James, and seeking out counselling, made him realise he needed to advocate for positive change.

'Grief affects everyone differently but it's brought us closer together and made us think about what's important in life - it's family, it's standing up for the things really matter,' he said.

'It strips away all the clutter from life and lays bare what's really important. You huddle together with your family and go through this terrible torment, but humans are ridiculously resilient - if you've got a good wife and kids and family and network, you can survive.

'There's good services out there for families who've lost kids to suicide and they've been invaluable for me.'

Mr Buckingham vowed to 'get justice for you, my darling son' in an emotional social media post in the day's after Eden's death.

He said the abuse his son suffered was being investigated by police, but he didn't know how it was progressing.

'I've been backwards and forwards with various police and I hope there's an outcome, but we have to wait and see,' he said.

His post described his 'beautiful, golden boy' as a sensitive and intelligent 'warrior' and sharing news of his death were 'the hardest, unbearable words'.

'Eden couldn't live with his truth, telling us a day before he passed that he had suffered the most evil abuse from a relative,' Mr Buckingham wrote.

'His trust, faith and hope were shattered. He couldnt live with the secret shame and guilt, and couldnt live with the truth revealed.

'He said he didnt want to be the guy that this had happened to. It was too much for him. I understand and am not angry at him. I know why.'

Mr Buckingham said grieving Eden's (pictured) death with his family, and seeking out counselling, made him realise he needed to advocate for legalising marijuana

He said he will remember his 'beautiful boy' every day and will see him again 'at the long table in Valhalla' - a great hall in Norse mythology where those who have died and are deemed worthy reside with gods.

Mr Buckingham said Australia was 'far behind' many Western democracies that legalised marijuana years ago, and the drug was less dangerous than other legal ones.

'The government makes a fortune out of alcohol and tobacco taxes, and there's incredible harm from that,' he said.

'When was the last time you saw two stoned people having a punch-up in a car park? Never.

Poll Should Australia legalise cannabis? Yes No Should Australia legalise cannabis? Yes 231 votes

No 102 votes Now share your opinion





'But how many people who've had 14 cans of rum have you seen having a ding-dong in the Maccas car park?'

Mr Buckingham said it was 'inevitable' Australia would soon legalise marijuana, and it would happen faster if voters supported his party.

'We're riding a wave [of support] with two people elected in WA and Victoria and we have confidence about NSW... and a majority of Australians support legalisation,' he said.

'It won't happen overnight but it won't take forever. We need to build consensus but don't want to get bogged down in inquiries - the research is being done overseas.'

He hoped for a progressive upper house that wouldn't be dominated by MPs who 'have their heads in the sand with a just-say-no approach that doesn't work'.

'Whoever forms government should be looking at this - even conservative states in the US are legalising cannabis because it's a freedom issue, people should be free to enjoy their lives with a plant that's humans have been using for thousands of years,' he said.

Mr Buckingham vowed to 'get justice for you, my darling son' in an emotional social media post in the day's after Eden's (pictured) death

Mr Buckingham called the war on cannabis one of the most catastrophic policy failures in Australian history that needed to end quickly.

'We've wasted billions of taxpayer dollars on a senseless and damaging war on cannabis. It's needlessly criminalised tens of thousands of people for no reduction in harm,' he said.

He had particular disdain for draconian drug driving laws that punished even medical cannabis patients if they failed a roadside saliva test as long as a month after they last used it.

'With alcohol you can have a glass of wine or mid-strength beer and drive, but if you have a small trace of a legal cannabis prescription for chronic illness three days later you can lose your licence and be fined even though you're not impaired, it's ridiculous,' he said.

'Australia is way behind, Canada and US states like California legalised cannabis more than five years ago and studies show there was no corresponding spike in drug-related accidents. If anything, they show marijuana users are slightly better drivers.

'There are many tests that measure impairment, and that is what we should be moving to - not ones that catch people taking medicine.'

Mr Buckingham said research overseas showed more people tried marijuana when it was legalised, but there were only a small number of additional; regular users

'We don't want kids using it, and if you have well-formed legislation you're far more able to protect and educate young people young people,' he said.

'That's a far more effective way to deal with an issue that isn't going away because Australians use cannabis.'

Mr Buckingham called the war on cannabis one of the most catastrophic policy failures in Australian history that needed to end quickly

Mr Buckingham was a member of the NSW Legislative Council from 2011 to 2019. He was a Greens member from 2011 to 2018, but resigned from the party in December 2018.

Announcing his return to politics, he said he was fighting for the common sense change that California, Canada, Germany, South Africa, Thailand and soon the ACT had already moved to  and it was now time for NSW.

'I believe that current laws criminalising cannabis use and possession are not only costly and ineffective but also unjust. They disproportionately affect the sick, the young and Indigenous Australians,' he said.

'The legalisation of recreational cannabis for adult use would create a significant industry and employer, whilst massively reducing the burden and cost of prohibition on the community and criminal justice system.'

For confidential crisis support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14
Police have smashed the window of a hot car to rescue two young children at a suburban shopping centre.

In exclusive footage obtained by Daily Mail Australia, the desperate officers on Monday about 2:30pm can be seen attempting unlock the grey Honda hatchback in a car park on Pittwater Road in Dee Why on Sydney's Northern Beaches.

After failing to get the door open, an officer resorts to smashing the passenger side window in with a hammer and baton.

The children aged one and four, were removed unharmed shortly before the driver returned to the car with groceries in hand.

Police spoke with the woman following the incident but no charges have been laid at this stage.

In NSW it is a criminal offense to leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle.

The offense can carry a maximum sentence of six month in prison or a $22,000 fine.

A witness who managed to capture the dramatic incident on camera told Daily Mail Australia they saw NRMA arrive alongside FRNSW, with NRMA attempting to gain access to the inside of the car.

The witness believed another onlooker had called triple-zero spotting the children inside.

The witness said the driver had hurried back to the car with shopping and was 'clearly in shock with what she was seeing'.

'It was certainly not cool in the parking garage so it is very dangerous to leave children alone in here,' they said.

It comes just weeks after a toddler died in a sweltering car in Glenfield in south-west Sydney, as horrified family members broke down at the scene.

Temperatures in the Glenfield area reached 34C on February 2, the day the three-year-old was found in the vehicle outside a grocery store.

NSW Police officers also had to smash a window in order to reach the child inside.

Police and emergency services attempted to get inside the car before a police officer smashed in the passenger window

A woman returned to the vehicle a short time later and was spoken to by police
The two Belarusians who carried out operation had used drones, it was claimed

A 274million Russian spy plane has reportedly been destroyed in a drone attack near Minsk by a pro-Ukraine Belarus group.

Belarusian partisans and members of the country's exiled opposition said they damaged Vladimir Putin's A-50U surveillance military aircraft in a secret mission.

Two participants had used drones and had already left the country, claimed Franak Viacorka, a close adviser of opposition figurehead Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

Front and central parts of the AWACS Beriev A-50U aircraft as well as the radar antenna were damaged from two explosions at the Machulishchy air base near Minsk, Belarusian anti-government organisation BYPOL claimed.

'Partisans... confirmed a successful special operation to blow up a rare Russian plane at the airfield in Machulishchy near Minsk,' tweeted Viacorka. 'This is the most successful diversion since the beginning of 2022.'

Belarus partisans and members of the exiled opposition said they damaged a Russian A-50 surveillance military aircraft (file image) as part of a secret mission

The Beriev A-50, which has the Nato reporting name of Mainstay, has airborne command and control capabilities and can track up to 60 targets at a time.

The distinctive plane carries a fibreglass dome more than 33ft in diameter, housing rotating antenna of the Shmel radar complex. Its long-range radar detection system has been used to pinpoint bombing targets inside Ukraine.

'I am proud of all Belarusians who continue to resist the Russian hybrid occupation of Belarus & fight for the freedom of Ukraine,' Tsikhanouskaya wrote on Twitter.

Reports of the drone attack could not be independently verified. There was no confirmation from Russia or Belarus or immediate response from their defence ministries to requests for comment.

But residents said a major search was under way by police and security services close to Machulishchi in the Minsk region, according to reports.

A local resident said: 'Half of Machulishchi is cordoned off. Lots of soldiers everywhere. We saw five military vehicles with machine guns. They are stopping all cars and minibuses there, checking bags and car boots.'

Since the start of Russia's invasion a year ago, there have been several acts of sabotage in Belarus and Russian regions bordering Ukraine, especially on the rail system.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, a key Putin ally, provided Moscow with a launching pad for the invasion and there has been Russian and Belarusian military activity in the country since then.

Ukrainian servicemen of the 68th Separate Jager Infantry Brigade Oleksa Dovbush fire an M2 machine gun on a frontline position at an undisclosed location in the Donetsk region, eastern Ukraine, on Sunday

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, a key Putin ally (pictured together on February 17), provided Moscow with a launching pad for the invasion and there has been Russian and Belarusian military activity in the country since then

Kyiv says Russia has also used Belarusian air strips as a base from which to launch strikes on Ukraine.

In recent months, Belarus and Russia have held a series of military operations and Ukraine has expressed fears that Minsk will enter the conflict. A number of Russian warplanes and early warning and control aircraft have been deployed to Belarus.

The destroyed A-50 plane reportedly carried the registration number RF-50608. It arrived in Belarus on January 3 and had made a dozen sorties linked to the war in Ukraine.

Russia has only six such modernised A-50U aircraft, each of which has a crew of 15.

Machulishchi is used to base Putins MiG-31K fighter jets  which carry hypersonic Kinzhal missiles  for attacks on Ukraine. These MiGs are often accompanied by the A-50U during operations.

The A-50U is designed to detect, track and identify aerial and large ground and naval targets, transmit data to command posts, and direct fighter jets to aerial targets.

The Belarusian human rights group Viasna said on Monday that a woman was detained in Machulishchy but the reason and her whereabouts were not known.

There was no information on whether the detention was related to the alleged sabotage of the aircraft.

Detentions are common in Belarus, for offences as small as comments on social media, especially after Lukashenko crushed the mass-pro democracy protests in 2020 and jailed all leading opposition figures or forced them to flee abroad.
Details have emerged about what led a Sydney woman to pick up a knife with the intention of attacking her partner in the early hours of the morning.

Kristy Anne Wild was set to undergo a five-day hearing in Burwood Local Court on Monday after she was accused of stabbing her boyfriend inside their Cabarita home in September 2021.

But instead of fighting the charge, Wild pleaded guilty to one count of being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence of assault, while a charge of reckless wounding was withdrawn by police.

The court was told the registered nurse had allegedly endured a tumultuous two-year relationship marred by violence at the hands of her former partner Jamie Blewitt.

But matters escalated during the 2021 Delta Covid-19 lockdown, with court documents detailing the hours before the attack.

Kristy Anne Wild pleaded guilty to one count of being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence of assault, while a charge of reckless wounding was withdrawn by police

Kristy Anne Wild (right) was accused of stabbing her then-boyfriend Jamie Blewitt (left) inside their Cabarita home in September 2021

On the evening of September 29, Wild and Mr Blewitt had been drinking before settling down to watch a movie, according to court documents.

When Mr Blewitt could not move Wild to bed in the early hours of the following morning, the pair began having an argument and yelling insults at each other.

According to court documents Mr Blewitt 'suddenly grabbed' Wild by the shoulders before twisting her leg.

'He thrust a knife towards her saying, "I'll do it, I'll do it" with the intent to scare her as per the facts,' defence lawyer Rory Pettit told the court.

'Those are matters probably characterised as either extreme provocation or matters that greatly affect or inform her motive.'

After Mr Blewitt allegedly 'shoved the knife' towards Wild's abdomen, court documents allege he yelled: 'F**k you. When I get home tomorrow you can leave.'

He walked out of the house, prompting Wild to pick up the knife and chase after him.

According to court documents, Mr Blewitt turned around and said: 'Come on, stab me then, go on.'

Mr Pettit asked magistrate Gemma Slack-Smith to consider not imposing a conviction for Wild, as she had already spent 118 days in custody following her arrest in 2021.

The court was told Wild had allegedly endured a tumultuous two-year relationship marred by violence at the hands of her former partner Jamie Blewitt

Magistrate Gemma Slack-Smith said she accepted Wild was a victim of domestic violence and sentenced her to a community release order for 19 months with no conviction

He said it was a 'profound shock to her system', especially during the Covid-19 lockdown.

A police prosecutor told the court that she opposed the non-conviction based on the seriousness of the offence.

Ms Slack-Smith said she accepted Wild was a victim of domestic violence and sentenced her to a community release order for 19 months with no conviction.

A court order is in place preventing her from going near Mr Blewitt.
A visitor takes a picture of photographs showing life in Ukraine at a photo exhibition "The Year of Resilience," co-hosted by the Embassy of Ukraine in Korea and the delegation of the European Union in Korea, at the Seoul Square building in central Seoul, Friday. The exhibit, commemorating the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, runs through March 10. Yonhap



By Kwon Mee-yoo



Photos of Ukrainian civilians and servicemen stopped office workers as they returned from lunch in Seoul on Friday. The photos, displayed in the lobby of the Seoul Square building, showed a year of conflict in Ukraine, from an image of Ukrainians taking emergency shelter at a subway station during Russian missile attacks to an image showing Ukrainian soldiers in Mariupol.



The Embassy of Ukraine in Korea, in collaboration with the delegation of the European Union in Korea, is hosting a photo exhibition commemorating the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in the lobby of the office building in front of Seoul Station until March 10.



Titled "The Year of Resilience," the exhibit showcases the lives of Ukrainians during the war and their unity in the face of hardship.



Ukrainian Ambassador to Korea Dmytro Ponomarenko expressed gratitude for those who showed solidarity with Ukraine during this time.



"As the world marks one year since Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine and its partners unite to once again demonstrate their readiness to defend their values of freedom and democracy," Ponomarenko said during the opening ceremony of the exhibition, Friday.





Ukrainian Ambassador to Korea Dmytro Ponomarenko, left, delivers a speech during the opening ceremony of "The Year of Resilience," a photography exhibition commemorating the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, at the Seoul Square building in central Seoul, Friday. On the right is Ambassador of the European Union Maria Castillo-Fernandez. Yonhap



"The year that passed has shown that Ukraine is a stronghold of freedom, a nation run by and for the people. We will never give up on our democracy, human rights, respect for the rule of law, our history and nationhood. The price the Ukrainian people pay daily in this fight is incredibly high. However, we will fight for as long as it takes, as we have no choice but to win this war."



The ambassador noted the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of a resolution on the "Principles of Charter of the UN underlying a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine" with 141 supporting votes Thursday.



"We are grateful to every member-state for their votes reconfirming their commitment to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders," he said.



Ponomarenko said the photo exhibit depicts daily life for Ukrainians in wartime, hoping to promote a better understanding of what Ukraine has gone through and what must be prevented from happening ever again.



"Daily missile attacks, destroyed civilian infrastructure, shelled fertile fields; the pain of this experience cannot be described in words," he said.



"Inhuman efforts of the bravest defenders, sleepless nights of mothers, huge losses and terrible trials for our children. Still, as you will find in these photos, even at such terrible times there is room for humanity. Despite everything, Ukrainians are united in their desire to live, develop, learn, create, inspire and help. All this is only possible in a free state. We will fight for that."





Visitors pass by "The Year of Resilience," a photo exhibition commemorating the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, at the Seoul Square building in central Seoul, Friday. Yonhap



Yulia Kaplan, third secretary at the Ukrainian Embassy, said the embassy selected the photos in cooperation with the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The photos come from various sources from news and official photos to professional and amateur photographers on the battlefield as well as in other parts of Ukraine.



She said numerous Ukrainian photographers capture wartime life through photography and share it on social media daily. Dmytro Kozatskyi is a soldier and photographer, who documented the siege of the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol in May 2022.



"He took all these photos from Azovstal and he and other Ukrainian defenders spent some time in Russian captivity," she explained.



Photographer Kostiantyn Polishchuk captured Anton Drobovych, head of the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance, giving a speech to Ukraine House Davos via Zoom last May.



The photos also depict the ongoing nature of the war, with one particularly poignant image showing a 23-year-old girl sitting amidst the ruins of her home in Dnipro as her parents were killed when a Russian missile struck their apartment building in January.



Kaplan became emotional when she explained the photos of the attacked government administrative building in Kharkiv, her hometown and Ukraine's second-largest city.



"These are the missiles that hit my Kharkiv," she said.





Ambassador of European Union Maria Castillo-Fernandez, right, speaks during the opening ceremony of "The Year of Resilience," a photography exhibition commemorating the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, at the Seoul Square building in central Seoul, Friday. Second from right is Ukrainian Ambassador Dmytro Ponomarenko. Yonhap
Transgender women convicted of violent crimes will be barred from female prisons in England and Wales under new rules coming into force today.

Justice Secretary Dominic Raab had already announced the ban would affect trans women who have male genitalia or have committed sexual offences.

And he announced yesterday the ban would be expanded to those found guilty of violent crimes including murder, attempted murder, harming a child, assault with intent to cause serious harm or injury, endangering life and harassment.

The changes will apply to all trans women regardless of whether they have a gender-recognition certificate.

It comes after the controversy in Scotland regarding Isla Bryson, a trans woman who was convicted of raping two women before transitioning from a man known as Adam Graham.

Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said the measures were a 'common sense' way of keeping inmates safe

The 31-year-old rapist was convicted in late January and was taken to Cornton Vale - Scotland's only all-female facility - to be held in segregation to await sentencing.

Following an outcry from the public and politicians, Bryson was moved to the male estate within days and an urgent review was commissioned by Scottish Justice Secretary Keith Brown.

Mr Raab called the new rules 'a strengthened, common sense framework that will improve safety for prisoners'.

Female prisoner tells of ordeal at the hands of notorious predator Karen White Advertisement

He added: 'As we have already promised, transgender women who have male genitalia or have committed sexual offences will no longer be held in women's prisons - unless in the most exceptional cases, requiring explicit ministerial approval.

'And as of tomorrow we have gone one step further - changing our guidance so that transgender women convicted of violent offences will also no longer be held in mainstream women's prisons.'

The Cabinet minister was asked about the UK Government's position on trans women during an appearance on Sky News.

He said the reason the policy was coming into force today, having been announced four months ago, was because it had taken 'time to do it very carefully and assiduously'.

But he denied it was in reaction to Bryson's case in Scotland.

Mr Raab, speaking to the Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme, said the UK Government wanted to have a 'liberal, sensitive, tolerant approach to the LGBT community as a whole and in particular the trans community', who he said 'suffer a lot in this country' with mental health and bullying.

It comes after the controversy in Scotland regarding Isla Bryson, a trans woman who was convicted of raping two women before transitioning from a man known as Adam Graham

Explaining the Ministry of Justice position on trans women in female prisons, he said: 'We are very clear that from next week we will introduce new rules which means that any trans offender with their male genitalia intact or who have been convicted of a sexual offence and, adding to that, if they have been convicted of a violent offence, they will not be allowed into the female prison estate.'

Ministry of Justice figures show there were 230 transgender prisoners in England and Wales in the year to last March, of whom 187 had a legal gender of male and 43 of female.

Of the total, 181 were in male prisons and 49 were in female ones. There were six trans women in womens jails.

Previously, there was no requirement to place transgender prisoners according to their preference, with the decision down to the results of a risk assessment.

In Scotland, there is a presumption that trans women will be placed according to their self-declared gender identity unless there are concerns they could pose a risk.
Dilbert comic strip creator Scott Adams experienced possibly the biggest repercussion of his recent comments about race when distributor Andrews McMeel Universal announced Sunday it would no longer work with the cartoonist.

Chairman Hugh Andrews and CEO and President Andy Sareyan said in a joint statement the syndication company was 'severing our relationship' with Adams.

In the episode of his YouTube show on Wednesday 22 February, Adams described people who are Black as members of 'a hate group' from which white people should 'get away.'

Various media publishers across the US denounced the comments as racist, hateful and discriminatory while saying they would no longer provide a platform for his work.

Andrews and Sareyan said Andrews McMeel supports free speech, but the comments by the cartoonist were not compatible with the core values of the company based in Kansas City, Missouri.

Scott Adams, creator of the Dilbert, talks about his work at his studio in California in 2006

Distributor drops Scott Adams 'Andrews McMeel Universal is severing our relationship with Dilbert creator Scott Adams. 'The process of this termination will extend to all areas of our business with Adams and the Dilbert comic strip. 'As a media and communications company, AMU values free speech. 'We are proud to promote and share many different voices and perspectives. But we will never support any commentary rooted in discrimination or hate. 'Recent comments by Scott Adams regarding race and race relations do not align with our core values as a company. 'Our creator-first approach is foundational to AMU, and we deeply value our relationships with our creators. 'However, in the case with Adams, our vision and principles are not compatible.' Advertisement

The creator of the long-running comic that pokes fun at office-place culture defended himself on social media against those whom he said 'hate me and are canceling me.'

The backlash against Adams arose following comments on 'Real Coffee with Scott Adams.'

Among other topics, Adams used the YouTube show to reference a Rasmussen Reports survey that had asked whether people agreed with the statement 'It's OK to be white.'

Most agreed, but Adams noted that 26% of Black respondents disagreed and others weren't sure.

Adams, who is white, repeatedly referred to people who are Black as members of a 'hate group' or a 'racist hate group' and said he would no longer 'help Black Americans.'

'Based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to white people is to get the hell away from Black people,' Adams said on his Wednesday show.

'Just get the f**k away. Wherever you have to go, just get away.'

In another episode of his online show Saturday, Adams said he had been making a point that 'everyone should be treated as an individual' without discrimination.

'But you should also avoid any group that doesn't respect you, even if there are people within the group who are fine,' Adams said.

Elon Musk surprisingly came to Adams' aid, weighing in that he believed the media was 'racist' to white and Asian people in a thread on his Twitter page.

The Twitter CEO wrote: 'For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now they're racist against whites and Asians.

'Same thing happened with elite college and high schools in America.

'Maybe they can try not being racist.'

A 2022 Pew Research Center study into newsroom diversity in the United States found 'there is broader agreement that organizations generally treat staff fairly, regardless of age, gender, or race and ethnicity.'

White and Asian employees are among the groups most likely to say their organization treats everyone fairly.

The study also notes younger staff show 'greater racial, ethnic and gender diversity' than has traditionally been the case.

The comic strip Dilbert, first published in 1989, satirizes white-collar corporate culture

The Dilbert comic strip had already been dropped by several media outlets by the time of the announcement from its distributor.

'We have decided to no longer publish the 'Dilbert' comic strip in our international print edition following racist comments by Scott Adams,' said Danielle Rhoades Ha, a spokeswoman for The New York Times who said Dilbert was published in the international print edition but not in the U.S. edition or online.

The Washington Post said it would stop publishing Dilbert in light of 'Scott Adamss recent statements promoting segregation,' although the strip could not be prevented from running in some forthcoming print editions.

The Los Angeles Times cited Adams' 'racist comments' while announcing Saturday that Dilbert will be discontinued Monday in most editions and that its final run in the Sunday comics - which are printed in advance - will be March 12.

The San Antonio Express-News, which is part of Hearst Newspapers, said Saturday it will drop the Dilbert comic strip, effective Monday, 'because of hateful and discriminatory public comments by its creator.'

The USA Today Network tweeted Friday that it will stop publishing Dilbert 'due to recent discriminatory comments by its creator.'

The Plain Dealer in Cleveland and other publications that are part of media company Advance Local also announced they are dropping Dilbert.

'This is a decision based on the principles of this news organization and the community we serve,' Plain Dealer Editor Chris Quinn wrote. 'We are not a home for those who espouse racism. We certainly do not want to provide them with financial support.'

Christopher Kelly, vice president of content for NJ Advance Media, wrote that the news organization believes in 'the free and fair exchange of ideas.'

'But when those ideas cross into hate speech, a line must be drawn,' Kelly wrote.

Twitter CEO Elon Musk defended Adams in posts on the platform, saying the media previously 'was racist against non-white people, now theyre racist against whites & Asians.'
The Met Office has warned snow could hit Britain in the coming weeks after temperatures plunged below freezing overnight.

Forecasters have issued a notice on a major Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW)  a sharp increase in temperatures which causes a blocking of high pressure  for late February and early March.

And the forecaster has now warned of a possibility of snow and wind combining to cause disruption across the UK next month.

It came as the Northern Lights were spotted in the sky last night - and the Met said they are likely to be visible again tonight. Stunning images taken across the country showed a purple and pink sky around sunset.

And bookies slashed the odds on March being the coldest on record.

Pictured on Sunday evening is the northern lights at Crosby Beach on the Merseyside coastline, north of Liverpool

Alex Apati from Ladbrokes told the Mirror: 'The incoming Beast from the East has forced us to slash odds on next month playing host to the coldest March on record.'

The mercury was forecast to fall as low as -8C in Scotland overnight as temperatures drop to below average entering March.

Northern and eastern coasts are expected to see the bulk of wintry conditions at the end of this week, before snow and rain is expected to move to the west.

Today is starting off on a frosty note, especially across Scotland and parts of southern England, the Met Office said.

'It will be dry for many but a few showers will move into eastern England, the Midlands and Wales at times,' the forecaster added.

The Met Office forecast for today says it will be cloudy with scattered light showers and a few brighter breaks. Western, and especially northwestern, areas will be sunniest.

The cloudy conditions will stay tomorrow with scattered showers in eastern and central areas. Frost will hit north west Scotland.

Wednesday to Friday looks settled but still cloudy, the forecast says, and showers continue in the northern and eastern coastal areas. It will be cold with light winds.

The Met Office forecast today - cold and windy conditions spread across Britain

A coronal hole high speed stream arrived in Britain on Sunday night, combined with a rather fast coronal mass ejection, leading to the Aurora sightings across the UK.

'The Aurora Borealis may be visible as far south as central England tonight where skies remain clear,' the Met Office tweeted. 'The Northern Lights are also likely to be seen again on Monday night.'

The Met Office tweeted a series of pictures taken by members of the public which captured the light phenomenon in North Uist in Scotland, North Wales, Cambridgeshire and Shropshire.

It encouraged users to upload pictures of any other sightings using the hashtag LoveUKWeather.

Royal Museums Greenwich explains on its website that the lights are caused by solar storms on the surface of the sun giving out clouds of electrically charged particles which can travel millions of miles and collide with the Earth.

Most particles are deflected away but some are captured in the Earth's magnetic field and accelerate down towards the north and south poles, colliding with atoms and molecules in the Earth's atmosphere, according to the observatory.

The lights are the product of this collision between atoms and molecules from the Earth's atmosphere and particles from the sun.

In November last year, strong light displays were witnessed across Scotland.

A Met Office spokesperson said the rare sightings of the aurora borealis further south in the UK on Sunday night were due to the 'strength' of a geomagnetic storm and the 'strip of cloudless skies' in southern regions

A display of the Northern Lights from South Shields/Souter lighthouse, Tyne and Wear

Looking ahead to March 3 to March 12, a Met Office spokesperson said Britons face the possibility of snow.

'Friday is likely to be mostly cloudy with some light rain in places, although some clear or sunny intervals remain possible.

'Into the weekend, settled conditions are expected to continue, bringing variable cloud with some clear, sunny spells', the outlook says.

'Showers mainly along northern and eastern coasts could be wintry across hills. Later in the period, high pressure is expected to migrate northwestwards, increasing the likelihood of any wintry showers in the north and east.

'There is a small possibility of more organised rain or snow spreading southwards, with the west and northwest most likely to remain under a settled regime.

'Winds generally light to moderate, possibly becoming stronger in the north. Temperatures generally colder than average, with some overnight frost likely.'

Forecasters earlier warned of a weather event that could spark harsh wintry weather similar to the 'Beast from the East' storm that hit the UK with 22 inches of snow in 2018.

The Met Office said there was an 80 per cent chance a sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event takes place at the end of February.
The meeting over Northern Ireland rules is taking place in Windsor this afternoon

Rishi Sunak will roll the dice on his premiership today as he risks Tory and DUP fury by sealing a new Brexit deal for Northern Ireland.

EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has arrived in London ahead of a meeting with the PM in Windsor at lunchtime to finalise the pact, the result of months of painstaking negotiations.

Downing Street insists that Mr Sunak has achieved 'significant and far reaching' concessions.

There are claims this afternoon that the DUP is ready to accept the agreement, although it will not respond immediately and had set red lines that looked very difficult to meet - including completely removing the role of the European Court of Justice. Unless the unionists agree to rejoin powersharing at Stormont the political crisis will continue.

In other positive noises for Mr Sunak, Northern Ireland minister and self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker - who has been on 'resignation watch' over the past few days - said this afternoon that the government was on the verge of a 'fantastic' deal.

Mr Sunak could face a rough ride from Tories when he makes a statement to the Commons this evening after staging a press conference with Ms von der Leyen. Some MPs are already warning that the agreement will not be satisfactory - although other former hardliners insist they are open-minded.

Allies of Mr Sunak are waiting nervously to see how Boris Johnson will respond.

Meanwhile, the government is facing a furious backlash for dragging the King into the political pressure-cooker - as Charles will meet Ms von der Leyen separately this afternoon during her visit.

RIshi Sunak has thrashed out a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply

EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has arrived in London ahead of a meeting with the PM in Windsor at lunchtime to finalise the pact

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker was in Downing Street again today, amid rumours that whips have put him on 'resignation watch'.

The Windsor hotel being used as a venue for the talks this afternoon

Mr Sunak tweeted ahead of the meeting with Ms von der Leyen

Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said before the announcement: 'I'm neither positive nor negative. I think we need to take time to look at the deal, what's available, and how does that match our seven tests.'

What could Rishi's new Brexit deal for NI include? Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU. Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London. In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU. In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do. Advertisement

Tory Eurosceptics were largely keeping their powder dry this morning.

But Mr Baker moved to quash rumours he will quit after another bout of talks in No10.

He told broadcasters: 'I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.'

In a round of interviews this morning, Jacob Rees-Mogg did not rule out backing the plan, but suggested Mr Sunak will fail to win over the DUP.

The ex-Cabinet minister told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'There are two things we need to know: one is what the DUP thinks, because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement.

'So, if the DUP doesn't think that it meets test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

'I'm afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say 'we need to see the legal text', they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.'

Ms von der Leyen is also holding talks with King Charles during her visit to Windsor.

That has caused a wave of anger among DUP and Eurosceptic figures that the monarch is being dragged into the contentious politics of Brexit.

Buckingham Palace seemed to point the finger at ministers by saying the government had advised that the King should meet the visiting dignitary.

Ex-DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one.

'It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.'

Mr Rees-Mogg said was 'constitutionally unwise' for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen around the signing of the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: 'It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

'It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

The PM's official spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes 'fundamentally' the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

'He firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions,' the official said.

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today.'

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, the spokesman said: 'There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant occasions, this is no different.'

Downing Street has stressed that there are still substantive issues for the PM and Ms von der Leyen to address this afternoon, although they are thought to have tied up the main elements in talks by phone yesterday.

Irish deputy leader Micheal Martin has said that European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen's visit to London is a sign of 'very significant and substantial progress' in protocol negotiations between the UK and EU.

'I think we'll leave it to both the President of the Commission and the British Prime Minister to announce whatever has to be announced this afternoon, but I think it's clear that very significant progress has been made,' he told RTE Radio.

'Over the last number of months, trust did build up between the two parties. Very substantial and serious negotiations have taken place in fairly significant detail, working up fairly substantive papers.'

Mr Martin said the customs data agreement struck earlier this year was a 'gamechanger' that 'facilitated a new fresh approach to that issue'.

The foreign affairs minister said the primary concerns that have been articulated by unionism in particular  include the bureaucratic barriers to goods being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the 'democratic deficit' on what input Northern Ireland would have on any future EU regulations, and state aid issues  had been heard.

'All of these issues, I think, have been responded to. I think the European Union has listened,' he said.

Ms von der Leyen will also hold talks with King Charles - raising fears that the monarch is being dragged into politics

Northern ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris in Downing Street today

What is the Brexit row about and what has been the impact on Northern Ireland? The UK and the EU have been engaged in intense negotiations over the workings of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the original withdrawal agreement that allowed the UK to leave the EU. It was designed to ensure the free movement of goods across the Irish land border with Ulster after Brexit. Rather than being an internal EU line between two countries, with Brexit it became a border between the bloc and a third party country with different customs and trade rules. In any other cases it would be solved simply by creating a 'hard' border - physical checks on vehicles and people travelling between the two. But the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence in 1998, expressly prohibits a return to such checkpoints on the island of Ireland. To get around this the protocol instead created economic barriers on trade being shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. It has proven to be deeply unpopular with unionists, who claim it has weakened Northern Ireland's place within the UK. Last year the DUP collapsed the powersharing institutions at Stormont in protest at the arrangements. It came as the party was replaced as the largest in the powersharing government by Sinn Fein for the first time. And the DUP is refusing to back a deal and restart powersharing unless their concerns are realised. They have set seven tests that it must pass to be approved. Advertisement

Mr Sunak has said the deal 'will show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job', adding: 'This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

'It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.'

The package is expected to include a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply in the province.

The PM held private talks in No 10 with Mr Baker yesterday in a sign of concern about resignations, while a survey by the grass-roots Conservative Home website found Tory activists oppose the idea of Mr Sunak's plan by 41 per cent to 36.

Former Brexit minister Lord Frost has urged the PM to revive the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, saying it was vital to be 'really tough' with Brussels.

The European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs has said it will establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to examine whether the new deal meets their sovereignty tests.

Meanwhile, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said it was a 'red line' for his party that 'there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK'.

Cabinet ministers, who will be formally briefed on the plans this afternoon, were last night ringing round Conservative MPs to shore up support.

Mr Sunak is expected to unveil the details in a statement to Parliament this afternoon.

However, there has been concern that MPs have not yet been guaranteed a vote on the deal.

Some are concerned that they have been left in the dark during talks.

One MP claimed Downing Street had kept them out of the loop to 'set everything up' and present the deal as 'a fait accompli'.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

No10 has been warned that rebels will force an indicative vote whether they want one or not.

The PM will tell MPs that his deal will secure Northern Ireland's place in the Union and protect the future of the Good Friday Agreement.

It is expected to lead to the scrapping of a barrage of EU checks on goods sent to the province from the rest of the UK, which have caused major problems for businesses and families, and led to unionist fears that Northern Ireland could be forced out of the UK.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said Mr Sunak was 'on the cusp' of a deal that would result in the 'substantial scaling back' of the role of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland.

Mr Raab said the deal would mark a 'paradigm shift' in relations and 'would be very good news for the communities of Northern Ireland and I think for the Good Friday Agreement as well'.

Ministers are optimistic that they can win over most Eurosceptic Tory MPs with a deal which Mr Raab said would 'properly and fully get Brexit done' and open the door to warmer relations with the EU.

But senior figures in the DUP warned that they were not yet convinced the deal would deliver enough to persuade them to re-enter power-sharing in Northern Ireland, a key objective of the PM.

And some Tory Eurosceptics said they would struggle to support a deal that was not supported by the DUP and which left the EU with a toehold in the UK.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak yesterday said he was 'giving it everything we've got' to get a deal.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, the PM said his new agreement was not a threat to Brexit but about 'making sure Brexit works in every part of the UK'.

Last night, neither No 10 nor Buckingham Palace would comment on whether the King would meet Mrs von der Leyen today.

Details of a planned meeting on Saturday, which was cancelled for 'operational reasons', raised concerns that No 10 was hoping to give the deal the impression of royal approval to head off opposition.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland

The Mail on Sunday revealed yesterday that the King's first overseas trip will be to Berlin and Paris, in a break from the tradition of using the inaugural visit to travel to a Commonwealth country.

Jacob Rees-Mogg said it would be 'wrong if Downing Street has applied pressure on the King' over a highly political issue. And Mr Wilson warned No 10 against a 'cynical use' of the King's position.

ERG chairman Mark Francois said the concessions did not appear to go far enough, and he would accept a deal only if 'EU law is expunged from Northern Ireland'. 'Less of a role is not enough.

'Just putting a couple of intermediate phases in but in a situation where you still end up with the European Court of Justice is effectively sophistry. We're not stupid.'

DUP MP Ian Paisley said: 'If the PM's plan involves keeping any part of the protocol, the DUP will not be going back into power-sharing.
A Brit holidaying in Thailand fell three storeys from a hotel baclony and now desperately needs 250,000 to get home for urgent surgery.

A couple's 'dream holiday' has now 'turned into a nightmare' after Kieran suffered internal bleeding and fractured his pelvis.

Since a speed boat rushed the 23-year-old to Bangkok Phuket Hospital for life-saving surgery, the couple's medical bills have piled up.

Kieran, reported to be from Yorkshire by The Mirror, 'cannot move from a laying down position' and urgently needs another surgery as part of his recovery in learning how to walk again.

Doctors advised that Kieran is flown back to the UK for the procedure, but this could cost between 170,000-250,000 'without any help from the insurance'.

Kieran, reported to be of Castleford, West Yorkshire, fell three storeys from a hotel balcony

His heartbroken girlfriend - also on the trip - said she 'wouldnt wish this on [her] worst enemy', adding that their best efforts are 'falling short'.

In a JustGiving campaign Shauna May, explained: 'He currently has external pelvic fixations and cannot move from a laying down position. He needs a second operation to insert internal fixations before he can start the long recovery process ahead before he will be able to sit on a flight to get home.

'The doctors advised that we fly home in an air ambulance for his second operation, however, we have been given quotes from 170,000-250,000 without any help from the insurance. Unfortunately nobody is in a position to be able to afford this.'

Kieran is a personal trainer, so restoring his mobility and learning how to walk again was said to be vital for 'his career, physical and mental well-being'.

Eleven days after the incident, Shauna said they were still in an 'exhaustive and tiring fight' with the insurance company.

She iterated the desperation of getting him home as soon as possible, with further complications and risk of infection arising from delaying the procedure.

She continued: 'We are now stuck in Thailand with no hope and rising hospital bills, we cannot keep up with the payments or afford to get home. His family have exhausted their savings on medical bills, the hospital are pressing for payments and we are no closer to getting home.'

The couple have currently raised over 16,000 as part of their crowdfunding plea.

'I wouldnt wish this on my worst enemy, my heart is broken seeing the person I love the most suffer like this. His family and I are trying our best but our efforts are falling short and we need help to get home,' she added.
The boss of the feared Russian Wagner mercenary group has called for the Russian defence minister's son-in-law to be raped or 'given the sledgehammer'.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin threatened to have his men bring defence minister Sergei Shoigu's son-in-law Alexey Stolyarov, 33, to him so he could be trained to go and fight in Ukraine.

Prigozhin said the fitness influencer could be 'raped' or face the notorious 'sledgehammer' execution that Wagner has used to kill defectors, as the bitter rift between Vladimir Putin's top military cronies spirals out of control.

The Wagner chief, like General Shoigu, is a close Putin crony, but the two men loathe each other.

Prigozhin demanded that Stolyarov - who avoided the military draft and is the partner of Shoigu's 32-year-old daughter Ksenia Shoigu - should be trained for war.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin threatened to have his men bring defence minister Sergei Shoigu's son-in-law Alexey Stolyarov, 33, to him so he could be trained to go and fight in Ukraine

Prigozhin demanded that Stolyarov (right) - who avoided the military draft and is the partner of Shoigu's (centre) 32-year-old daughter Ksenia Shoigu (left) - should be trained for war

'I can give instructions on what needs to be done - it is necessary to catch Stolyarov and bring him to me,' said Prigozhin.

'I will train him for six weeks. I will help him improve by sending him to combat operations. Before that he can be [raped].'

Prigozhin also ranted that 'we ought to pick up a sledgehammer, and deal with it in an adult way, leaving humour aside'.

At least one convicted murderer Yevgeny Nuzhin, 55, was bludgeoned to death with a sledgehammer for deserting Wagner's frontline, and there are reports there have been more examples.

Prigozhin has raged against the defence minister - especially over the slow supply of ammunition and weapons to his forces, which are made up of volunteers and convicts released to fight for Putin. He has labelled such failings as treachery.

Prigozhin is thought to want General Shoigu to be fired amid rumours that he craves the defence minister's job himself.

He has also attacked Ksenia Shoigu for enjoying holidays in Dubai while the war in Ukraine rages. She was also seen with Stolyarov on a Black Sea beach.

Meanwhile, Stolyarov was recently seen hiking in Africa, even though many men of his age have been forced by his father-in-law to fight and die in Ukraine.

At least one convicted murderer Yevgeny Nuzhin, 55, (pictured) was bludgeoned to death with a sledgehammer for deserting Wagner's frontline, and there have been reports of other examples

The influencer, who has 4.2million subscribers on YouTube, and three quarters of a million on Instagram, was hit by a wave of negative reactions to his African adventure.

Stolyarov claimed that he was being wrongly attacked by Prigozhin for 'liking' an opposition social media post that said: 'It has been precisely a year since Putin and his entourage unleashed bloody and meaningless war.'

The YouTuber said he was also falsely accused of labelling a woman 'Z-trash' and telling her to go to the war.

'I didn't like anything, and didn't write anything to anyone,' Stolyarov said.

'Please, have your own head on your shoulders, and don't allow yourself to be manipulated with the help of Photoshop. Hugs to everyone.'

The attack by Prigozhin on Shoigu's son-in-law is plainly aimed at hurting the defence minister.

Prigozhin, dubbed 'Putin's chef' having once provided catering services to the Kremlin, accused Shoigu last week of starving his fighters in Ukraine of ammunition, which he said amounts to an attempt to 'destroy' the force.

Prigozhin said in a raised voice that Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov are handing out orders 'left and right' not to supply Wagner with ammunition or air transport. The company has been involved in heavy fighting in the east of Ukraine.

Prigozhin, dubbed 'Putin's chef' (pictured together) having once provided catering services to the Kremlin, accused Shoigu last week of starving his fighters in Ukraine of ammunition, which he said amounts to an attempt to 'destroy' the force

This 'can be likened to high treason in the very moment when Wagner is fighting for Bakhmut, losing hundreds of its fighters every day,' Prigozhin said.

Millionaire Prigozhin and his fighters have claimed for weeks that the military doesn't provide them with enough ammunition. Wagner's push to take over Bakhmut, a city in Ukraine's partially occupied eastern Donetsk region, has stalled and turned into a grinding battle.

Shoigu later released weapons and ammunition to Wagner after Prigozhin's rant.

Yet the episode shows the poisonous warring relationships among the commanders Putin relies on for military success.
The ex-husband and in-laws of a Hong Kong model and influencer appeared in court today charged with her gruesome murder.

Abby Choi was killed and dismembered, with her legs found in a refrigerator while her skull and a number of her ribs were discovered in a cooking pot.

Ms Choi's ex-husband Alex Kwong, his father Kwong Kau and his brother Anthony Kwong were charged with murdering the model. Alex Kwong's mother Jenny Li faces one count of perverting the course of justice.

Pictures on Sunday evening showed one of the male suspects being led to court by police with a black bag over his head. The four were placed in custody without bail.

Ms Choi, 28, was a model and influencer who shared her glamorous life of photoshoots and fashion shows with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram. She had just attended a Dior show at Paris Fashion Week, and posted an image of herself dressed in a tulle floor-length gown,.

Abby Choi was killed and dismembered, with her legs found in a refrigerator while her skull and a number of her ribs were discovered in a cooking pot.

Ms Choi's ex-husband Alex Kwong, his father Kwong Kau and his brother Anthony Kwong were charged with murdering the model. Alex Kwong's mother Jenny Li faces one count of perverting the course of justice. Pictured: One of the suspects is seen being led by police officers to court late on Sunday

Her last post was more than a week ago, featuring a photoshoot she had done with L'Officiel Monaco, a fashion publication.

Ms Choi had financial disputes involving tens of millions of Hong Kong dollars with her ex-husband and his family, police said earlier, adding that 'some people' were unhappy with how she handled her financial assets.

Her friend, Bernard Cheng, said she has four children: two sons aged ten and three and two daughters ages eight and six. The elder two were with Kwong, 28, and the younger children were with her current husband, Chris Tam.

Mr Tam said he was very thankful to have had Ms Choi in his life and praised her for being supportive, friend Pao Jo-yee said in a Facebook post.

'When Abby was alive, she's a very kind person and always wanted to help people,' he was quoted in the post. 'I feel anyone who could be her family and friends are blessed.'

Ms Pao, who is married to Mr Cheng, told the Associated Press that she has known Ms Choi for over seven years and she treated people around her well.

'She is that type of person that wouldn't have enemies,' she said.

Mr Cheng said Ms Choi had very good relationships with her family members and would travel with the families of her current and former husbands together.

Ms Choi's current father-in-law is a founder of one of the city's famous noodle chains, local newspaper The Standard reported.

Ms Choi, 28, was a model and influencer who shared her glamorous life of photoshoots and fashion shows with more than 100,000 followers on Instagram. Dressed in a tulle floor-length gown, she had just attended a Dior show at Paris Fashion Week (pictured). She was killed and dismembered, with her legs found in a refrigerator while her skull and a number of her ribs were discovered in a cooking pot

Ms Choi had been missing for several days when police found her dismembered body, including her legs in a refrigerator, at the house in Lung Mei Tsuen, a suburban part of Hong Kong about a 30-minute drive from the border with mainland China.

On Sunday, authorities discovered a young woman's skull believed to be Ms Choi's in one of the cooking pots that was seized. Officials believe that a hole on the right rear of the skull is where she was struck in a fatal attack.

Following an extensive search, Ms Choi's former partner, 31, was arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday, according to the South China Morning Post.

He was found on Tung Chung pier on Lantau Island, preparing to board a speedboat. Her former husband had HK$500,000 (50,000) in cash and several luxury watches worth HK$4 million (400,000) in total with him when he was arrested, sources claim.

On Saturday, Superintendent Alan Chung said the dismemberment was carried out by 'cold-blooded killers'.

'Police also have found that the flat was arranged by cold-blooded killers meticulously,' he said. 'Tools that are used to dismember human bodies were found in the flat, including meat grinders, chainsaws, long raincoats, gloves, and masks.'

Her case is one of the most shocking, violent killings Hong Kong has seen since 2013, when a man killed his parents and their heads were later found in refrigerators.

The legs of Abby Choi were found by police officers in a household fridge on Friday after she went missing. Her ex-husband and three of his relatives have been charged

Ms Choi had been missing for several days when police found her dismembered body, including her legs in a refrigerator, at the house in Lung Mei Tsuen, a suburban part of Hong Kong about a 30-minute drive from the border with mainland China

In another famous 1999 case, a woman was kidnapped and tortured by three members from an organised crime group before her death.

Her skull was later found stuffed in a Hello Kitty doll.

The gruesome killing of Ms Choi has gripped many in Hong Kong as the southern Chinese city is widely considered safe with a very low level of violent crime.

Across the border in mainland China, online discussions about the case went viral on social media. The murder hearing was adjourned until May.
Britain's first new nuclear reactor in 30 years has arrived by barge at Hinkley Point C and will generate power to more than three million homes as of 2027.

The 42ft, 500-tonne 'reactor pressure vessel' will be the first nuclear reactor to be installed in the UK since the 1990s.

It is the first of two reactors which will eventually power some of the world's largest steam turbines to generate power.

Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset is being built to start generating electricity in 2026, following Hinkley Point A and B - two nuclear plants that no are no longer used.

The reactor, made by Framatome in France, arrived in Britain at Avonmouth Docks in Bristol undergoing a five-hour journey by barge to Combwich Wharf on the River Parrett in Somerset.

Britain's first new nuclear reactor in 30 years has arrived by barge at Hinkley Point C in Somerset

The 13m, 500-tonne 'reactor pressure vessel', pictured arriving today, will be the first nuclear reactor to be installed in the UK since the 1990s

Hinkley Point C (pictured here as an artist's impression) is a nuclear power station in Somerset currently being built to start generating electricity in 2026

Hinkley Point C: The UK's first nuclear power station since 1995 Cost: The power station is expected to cost 26billion to build after EDF warned in 2017 that there could be another 700million in costs. Completion date: Hinkley Point is the first new nuclear power station in the UK since Sizewell B in 1995. It is not expected to start delivering power to the national grid until 2026 Workers employed: There are 8,500 people now working at Hinkley Point C. Amount of concrete used: 3million tonnes of concrete will be required during Hinkley Point C's construction. 9,000 cubic metres of concrete was poured into the base of the first reactor. It is the largest ever concrete pour in the UK, beating the Shard in London Steel used in the base of the first reactor: 5,000 tonnes Advertisement

Hinkley Point C owner EDF Energy says the arrival of the reactor marks a 'significant milestone' for the power plant, which has around 8,500 workers.

EDF operates all Britain's eight nuclear power plants, which provide around 13 per cent of the country's electricity.

Installation of the reactor will take place once the reactor dome has been installed this year - but it will not generate any power until 2026.

Hinkley Point C is an environmentally controversial project, with some campaigners saying the Government should be funding renewable fuels instead.

Full construction got under way after EDF, its partner, the Chinese state-owned China General Nuclear Power Group, signed final contracts in 2016 with Theresa May's government.

While EDF is funding two-thirds of the plant, China is investing the rest, and there have been concerns over this partnership.

Despite these fears, Mrs May decided to go ahead with the scheme and construction began seven years ago.

The first reactor will not be completed until 2025, and EDF - which is controlled by the French state - warned in 2017 that the project could be delayed for another 15 months. This would result in an extra 700million in costs.

The bill for the project is estimated to hit 26billion.

Hinkley Point A, the first nuclear power station at the site on the north Somerset coast, stopped operating in 2000 and is being decommissioned.

Hinkley Point B began operating in 1976 and stopped generating electricity at the beginning of August this year.

Weighing 500 tonnes, the reactor pressure vessel, pictured, was delivered to the site today

People watch as the first new nuclear reactor for a British power station for over 30 years arrives by barge

The new multi-billion-pound Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, pictured in 2019 during construction

Hinkley Point C is being built in Somerset, following Hinkley Point A and B - two nuclear plants that no are no longer used

The Hinkley Point C project was rocked in after the death of a construction worker at the site in November last year.

Father-of-four Jason Waring, 48, is thought to have been crushed to death by machinery at the Somerset construction site on November 13.

Most of Hinkley Point C, due to open by 2027, was closed in the week after the tragedy.

Mr Waring's wife, Sarah, has paid tribute to him following his death. She said: 'Jason was a devoted and loving father who did everything for me, his sons and his daughters.

'He was also a great friend, very loyal to many, and was always the life and soul of the party. We will miss him terribly.'

The megaproject - one of Europe's biggest construction jobs with around 8,500 workers - is owned by energy company EDF and is estimated to cost around 26billion

The reactor arrived today in what was a huge milestone for the multi-billion-pound project

In January this year it was revealed that the popular holiday park Pontins Brean Sands would be used to house workers building the power station.

Sedgemoor District Council approved the move following a request by EDF Energy.

A Hinkley Point C spokesperson said: 'We will be accommodating workers at the Brean Pontins site for the next three years and investing millions of pounds into its refurbishment.

'We have been working with the local community and businesses throughout this process and developed a significant mitigation package, which will benefit the area over the years to come.'
An all of Vladimir Putin has warned of an 'apocalypse' if the West continues to send arms to Ukraine to help the country in its fight against invading Russian forces.

Russia's former president Dmitry Medvedev said the effects of the potential global nuclear catastrophe would last decades 'until the rubble ceases to emit radiation' - in a reiteration of his previous threats of nuclear war with Kyiv's allies.

Medvedev's apocalyptic rhetoric has been seen as an attempt to deter the NATO military alliance and Kyiv's Western allies from getting even more involved in the year-old war that has dealt Moscow numerous setbacks on the battlefield.

His latest comments follow Putin's nuclear warning last week and his Sunday remarks in which he framed Moscow's confrontation with the West as an existential battle for the survival of Russia and the Russian people.

Kyiv and its NATO allies say the invasion in an imperialistic land grab, and that the only aggressor in the conflict is Russia, which repeatedly denied it was planning military action in the months and weeks before February 24, 2022.

Russia's former president Dmitry Medvedev (pictured, file photo) said the effects of a global nuclear catastrophe would last decades 'until the rubble ceases to emit radiation' - in a reiteration of his previous threats of nuclear war with Kyiv's allies

Medvedev's apocalyptic rhetoric has been seen as an attempt to deter the U.S-led NATO military alliance and Kyiv's Western allies from getting even more involved in the year-old war that has dealt Moscow numerous setbacks on the battlefield. Pictured: A Russian Sarmat (Satan) nuclear-capable missile is seen being tested

'Of course, the pumping in of weapons can continue ... and prevent any possibility of reviving negotiations,' Medvedev, who serves as deputy chairman of Putin's powerful security council, said in remarks published in the daily Izvestia.

'Our enemies are doing just that, not wanting to understand that their goals will certainly lead to a total fiasco. Loss for everyone. A collapse. Apocalypse. Where you forget for centuries about your former life, until the rubble ceases to emit radiation.'

Late in his rambling near two-hour state-of-the-nation address last week, Putin announced Russia was suspending its participation in the New Start programme with the US, which limits the two sides' strategic nuclear arsenals.

The New Start treaty was signed in Prague in 2010, came into force the following year and was extended in 2021 for five more years just after US President Joe Biden took office.

It caps the number of strategic nuclear warheads that the US and Russia can deploy and the deployment of land-and submarine-based missiles and bombers.

Russia has the largest stockpile of nuclear weapons in the world, with close to 6,000 warheads, according to experts.

Together, Russia and the US hold around 90 per cent of the world's nuclear warheads - enough to destroy the planet many times over.

Russia has frequently used the looming threat of its nuclear arsenal to try and scare the West into stopping its supply of weapons to Ukraine.

On state television, Putin's propagandists regularly call for targets in the West - including the British capital of London - to be nuked.

And in January, Medvedev appeared to warn NATO leaders to halt supplies of major new arms to Kyiv, as Western allies met at the Ramstein Air Base Germany to discuss whether Germany should agree to send Leopard 2 main battle tanks.

If Russia loses, it would trigger nuclear war, Medvedev said at the time, who as Russian president from 2008 to 2012 once had his finger on Russia's nuclear trigger.

He strongly implied the fate of his boss Putin, and that of Russia's, depends on the Russian despot not being defeated in the bloody year-long war.

'It doesn't occur to any of the wretches to draw the following elementary conclusion: That the loss of a nuclear power in a conventional war could provoke a nuclear war.

'Nuclear powers have not lost major conflicts on which their fate depends. And this should be obvious to anyone.

'Even a Western politician with any trace of intelligence,' said the former president.

Moscow went on to confirm that Medvedev's incendiary remarks were in full accordance with Russia's nuclear doctrine.

Medvedev stepped into Putin's shoes as President in 2008 for a four-year term, while Putin became the Russian Prime Minister for that time. The move was seen as largely symbolic, with Putin maintaining ultimate power.

When he first became president in 2008, he promised to modernise and liberalise Russia, and often spoke of his love of tech gadgets and of blogging. He even visited California and was given a brand new iPhone 4 from Apple founder Steve Jobs.

But he has since rebooted his political persona, and now frequently embarks on tirades on the Telegram messaging app to he followers about Russia's place in the world, and his hatred of the West.

Observers have said his new persona is a desperate attempt to retain relevance in Moscow's political circles, which have become significantly darker since he left the presidency and Putin reclaimed the top job in the Kremlin.

Meanwhile, there have been rumours of Medvedev's increasing alcohol consumption, with Putin telling him to resign as Prime Minister, instead handing him the token job as deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council - which, as with many other political organisation in Moscow, Putin has ultimate control over.

Now, some analysts see Medvedev as positioning himself for a new run at the Kremlin presidency if Putin is forced out by ill health or through dissatisfaction.

Russia has previously said it would only resort to nuclear weapons if faced with an 'existential threat'.

In March 2022, a month after the invasion began, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: 'We have a concept of domestic security, and it's public. You can read all the reasons for nuclear arms to be used. So if it is an existential threat for our country, then it can be used in accordance with our concept.'

However, concerns have since risen about Russia's potential use of such weapons as its forced continued to suffer embarrassing losses at the hands of Ukraine's armies.

There have been warnings issued of the possible use of tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield, and of the use of a dirty bomb. There have also been fears over the safety at Ukraine's nuclear power stations that could trigger another Chernobyl disaster if not maintained - or suffer damage in the on-going fighting could.

Meanwhile, the US warned China of serious consequences if it provided arms to support Russia's invasion of Ukraine, as Kyiv's top general visited the frontline town of Bakhmut where Ukrainian defenders were holding out against constant attacks.

Air raid sirens blared in the capital Kyiv and other cities overnight and a Russian missile strike killed one person in the western town of Khmelnitskyi, Mayor Oleksandr Symshyshyn said on the Telegram messaging app.

Washington and its NATO allies are scrambling to dissuade China from providing military aid for Moscow's war, making public comments on their belief that Beijing is considering providing lethal equipment possibly including drones.

Western fears of China helping to arm Russia come as Moscow's forces struggle to make gains around key objectives in eastern Ukraine, and as Kyiv prepares a counter-offensive with advanced Western weapons including battle tanks.

Pictured: Polish Leopard 2 tanks are transferred to Ukraine in an undisclosed location, in Ukraine February 24, 2023. Russia has been issuing threats in an apparent attempt to dissuade Ukraine's western allies from providing Kyiv with advanced military hardware

'Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance - but if it goes down that road it will come at real costs to China,' White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told CNN.

While China had not moved forward in providing that aid, neither had it taken the option off the table, Sullivan said in a separate interview on ABC.

Beijing has refused to condemn Moscow's attack on Ukraine, most recently at a meeting of the Group of Twenty (G20) in India on Saturday.

It published a ceasefire proposal on Friday, the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but the offer was met with scepticism among Ukraine's Western allies.
China accused the United States of 'endangering' peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait after a US military plane flew through the waterway on Monday.

The Eastern Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army said its forces closely monitored the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance plane, which is also used for anti-submarine missions, as it flew through the strait which separates China from Taiwan.

A statement read: 'The US side's actions deliberately interfered with and disrupted the regional situation and endangered peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We firmly oppose this,' it said in a short statement.'

The US Navy responded that the reconnaissance plane was in international airspace when it flew through the 110-mile wide strait between mainland China and Taiwan.

The legal status of the strategically-important body of water is contested, with the US claiming it is in international waters and China claiming it falls within its own waters, as it considers Taiwan an extension of the mainland.

An American P-8A reconnaissance plane, like the one that flew through the Taiwan Strait

Chinese troops mark the 90th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in July 2017

The Taiwan Strait is a 110-mile wide strait between continental Asia and the island of Taiwan

The U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet said the aircraft had flown in international airspace and that the United States will continue to fly, sail, and operate anywhere international law allows including within the Taiwan Strait.

READ MORE: Chinese military aircraft and ships cross the Taiwan Strait amid soaring tensions with the US after Navy and Marines held drills in South China Sea and fallout over Montana spy balloon Advertisement

'By operating within the Taiwan Strait in accordance with international law, the United States upholds the navigational rights and freedoms of all nations.

'The aircraft's transit of the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific,' it added in a statement.

Taiwan's defence ministry said the aircraft had flown in a southerly direction through the strait.

Taiwan's forces tracked the aircraft as if flew through the strait, the ministry said, noting the situation was 'as normal'.

It did not elaborate.

China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has stepped up its military activity near the island in the past three years as it seeks to try to force Taiwan to accept Beijing's sovereignty.

Taiwan's government says only the island's people can decide their future and it will not give in to threats.

Taiwan's leaders fled to the island after the 1927-1949 Chinese Civil War, which resulted in communist forces controlling mainland China and establishing the People's Republic of China.

Washington is Taiwan's most important international backer and seller of arms despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, and U.S. support for the island is a constant irritant in Sino-U.S. relations.

United States Navy Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft departing Farnborough Airport in the United Kingdom in 2014

A member of the Taiwanese military participates in a practical shooting training exercise inside a military base in Taoyuan, Taiwan, 21 February 2023

Tensions around the region have stepped up in recent months.

Last week, footage showed a Chinese fighter jet alongside a guided-missile destroyer warship in the South China Sea warn a US military recon plane to turn away from Chinese airspace.

The American aircraft was 30 miles from any airspace considered to be owned by China, including the disputed Paracel Islands in the South China Sea, but the Chinese military appear proactive in defending territory far outsider their jurisdiction in what could be seen a threatening maneuvers.

The PLA pilot came on the radio, saying: 'American aircraft. Chinese airspace is 12 nautical miles. Not approaching any more or you bear all responsibility,' came the message.'

The American pilot, Lt. Nikki Slaughter, returned: 'PLA fighter aircraft, this is US Navy P-8A  I have you off my left wing and I intend to proceed to the west. I request that you do the same, over.'

There was no response, but the Chinese pilot continued to escort the American plane for a further 15 minutes from just 500 feet away.

The commander of the US Navy mission, Navy Cmdr. Marc Hines, downplayed the incident, simply describing it as 'another Friday afternoon in the South China Sea' while speaking to CNN, who were onboard.

An MV-22 Osprey flies by the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz on February 11 during exercises in the South China Sea

A Chinese military jet flies over Pingtan island, one of mainland China's closest point from Taiwan, in Fujian province on August 5, 2022

Earlier this month, China conducted a show of force over the Taiwan Strait, sending nearly two dozen Chinese military aircrafts and ships to cross the median line of the contended buffer zone.

The US Navy also conducted joint exercises with the Marine Corps in the South China Sea over the weekend of 11-12 February, which they described as 'integrated expeditionary strike force.'

This came following reports the US had shot down multiple spy balloons from China.

Debris retrieved from the crash showed electronics used 'for intelligence gathering'.
This photo shows people lining up to leave for Japan at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, Feb. 23. Yonhap



Retail sales in Korea grew 4 percent on-year in January, though offline retailers saw their sales fall due to the New Year's holiday and amid an economic slowdown, data has showed.



The combined sales of 25 major offline and online retailers came to 14.7 trillion won ($11.19 billion) last month, compared with 14.1 trillion won a year earlier, according to the data compiled by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.



The overall growth was led by strong demand at online platforms, which saw their sales advance 9.1 percent on-year to 7.2 trillion won in January.



Among categories, sales of tourism and other services enjoyed a 27.3 percent jump, and demand for foodstuff jumped 10.7 percent.



Various New Year's events also boosted sales of cosmetics and home appliances 12.2 percent and 6.5 percent, respectively, on-year, the data showed.



But sales of offline retailers inched down 0.5 percent to 7.51 trillion won in January due to fewer business days for them over the New Year's holiday and the continued spread of the contactless shopping trend, according to the ministry.



Sales of luxury brands fell 7.2 percent on-year to lead the overall downturn of sales at offline stores, which came amid an economic slowdown and as an increasing number of people went abroad on the lifting of antivirus regulations, according to the ministry. It marked the first time since March 2020 that sales of luxury items logged an on-year fall.



Department stores saw their sales go down 3.7 percent due to dwindling demand for luxury goods and clothing.



Sales at discount chain stores, such as E-mart and Lotte Mart, fell 3.8 percent on-year, and smaller supermarkets also saw their sales fall 4.5 percent on-year.



But convenience stores enjoyed 8.4 percent sales growth thanks to the growth in customers during the New Year's holiday and the strong demand for smaller food packages, according to the ministry.



Online platforms accounted for 48.9 percent of total sales in January, up from 46.6 percent a year ago, according to the ministry. (Yonhap)


Ron DeSantis claimed former Disney CEO Bob Chapek complained to him about the 'pressure' he was under from the left to wade in on the Governor's new education bill that bans teaches young children in Florida about gender identity.

The Florida governor said he was contacted by Chapek in early 2022 about the state's education law and the then-Disney chief said he had come under pressure to 'weigh in' against the bill.

DeSantis disclosed details of the conversation in a chapter of his new memoir, 'The Courage to be Free: Florida's Blueprint for American Revival', which was shared with Fox News Digital.

'As the controversy over the Parental Rights in Education bill was coming to a head, Chapek called me, he did not want Disney to get involved, but he was getting a lot of pressure to weigh in against the bill,' DeSantis writes.

'We get pressured all the time,' Chapek told DeSantis, according to the Governor's book. 'But this time is different. I haven't seen anything like this before.'

Ron DeSantis revealed the details of his conversation with Chapek during the time issues around Florida's education law first began in early 2022 in a chapter of his new memoir. Pictured above at Palm Beach Atlantic University on February 15

Former Disney CEO Bob Chapek claimed to have expressed his 'concern' about the legislation being passed. Pictured above at the premiere of 'Pinocchio' at the Main Theater at Walt Disney Studios, California, on September 7, 2022

Chapek declined to comment when approached by DailyMail.com on Monday.

On March 9 last year the former Disney CEO reached out to the Florida Governor to persuade him not to sign the education bill, incorrectly dubbed as the 'Don't say gay' bill by its critics. Formally known as the 'Parental Rights in Education' bill, it states that 'classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through [third grade]'.

Chapek eventually expressed his 'concern' that if the legislation was to be passed, it 'could be used to unfairly target gay, lesbian, non-binary and transgender kids and families'. He told Disney shareholders in March last year that Disney bosses were 'opposed to the bill from the outset'.

Chapek also claimed that DeSantis was 'very open' to hearing the concerns during their 'extraordinary' conversation.

In his account of the exchanges, DeSantis claims in his book that Chapek and Disney 'ultimately caved to leftist media and activist pressure and pressed the false narrative against the bill'.

DeSantis tried to assuage Chapek's fears about a backlash by stating that Disney should have expected a two-day-long outrage once the bill passed if they decided to stay out of Florida politics - before the dust settled around the matter.

Senior leaders at Disney were frustrated by the way Chapek, who was dismissed as Disney CEO in November 2022, handled the education bill.

The former CEO met with senior leadership groups, expressing a dissatisfaction with his reluctance to stand firmly against the bill.

Chapek apologized to his colleagues for not taking a more forceful stand in a statement on the Disney website. It read: 'It is clear that this is not just an issue about a bill in Florida, but instead yet another challenge to basic human rights. You needed me to be a stronger ally in the fight for equal rights and I let you down. I am sorry'.

Amid the dispute between DeSantis and Chapek, a new bill would put a state-run board in charge of the governance of Reedy Creek - which Disney has been responsible for since 1967

As a part of the legislation, public school teachers are not allowed to 'encourage classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity in primary grade levels'

The bill was passed by Florida's Republican-controlled House of Representatives on 24 February and the state Senate on 8 March - it is set to come into effect from 1 July, with all school district plans required to be updated by June 2023.

It was reported that Disney had been pushing ideals that were slammed by conservatives, such as enforcing gender and sexuality messages in films and television shows.

In the revealed chapter DeSantis wrote that whilst Disney had a right to engage in righteous activism, Florida had no place in idolizing the company in doing so.

He argued that this was especially true 'when the company's activism impacted the rights of parents and the well-being of children.'

Additionally, the Florida Governor wrote how he was shocked to discover left-wing voices siding with such a giant corporation.

In the next weeks, Florida lawmakers are to meet next week as they decide on whether Disney World's self-governing power should be replaced with a state-run board under radical plans backed by DeSantis.

The session will focus on whether to reverse the previous decision to dissolve the district and Disney's special governing privileges, which it has held for 55 years.

Since 1967, Disney has been responsible for the governance of an area known as Reedy Creek. Critics of the company claim the arrangement gives the firm special legal and tax privileges.

DeSantis launched the effort to upend Disney's self-governing powers following Chapek's condemning of Florida's Rights in Education Bill.

The extracts from his book came as DeSantis gave an interview to Fox News in which he said 'woke ideology' is taking over public and corporate institutions across America.

'If your standing for the right things, you're going to have to show courage under fire,' the governor said.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis kicked off his multi-city 'Law and Order' tour with a stop in Staten Island, New York on Monday, February 20, 2023

The tour is fueling the speculation that DeSantis will soon launch a presidential GOP primary bid against former President Donald Trump in 2024

Last week, DeSantis kicked off his 'Law and Order' tour amid speculation that he's drawing closer to announcing a bid for president in 2024.

The visit coincided with the President's Day holiday and as former President Donald Trump continues to launch attacks against DeSantis, who is quickly emerging as the most likely to be able to take down the former president in a primary.

However, DeSantis has currently remained relatively quiet on the presidential ambitions front, saying at a press conference this month 'wouldn't you like to know?' when a reporter asked if he would enter the running now that former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley announced her bid.

As of now, both Trump and his former Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley are the only two major Republicans to launch an official bid for the White House in 2024.

But at least a few dozen others are considering or rumored to be weighing a run, including former Vice President Mike Pence, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott and former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan.
Rishi Sunak's new Brexit package for Northern Ireland is the result of months of painstaking negotiation.

The PM has been deeply involved in hammering out new terms, despite warnings from many quarters that he is putting his premiership on the line.

There has been a desperate push from both sides to make progress before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement this spring.

But although there is evidence Mr Sunak has secured significant concessions, Tories and the DUP are warning he has not done enough to break the impasse that has brought politics in the province to a standstill.

The UK and EU are unveiling a new deal on Brexit terms for Northern ireland today

Rishi Sunak (right) has been deeply involved in hammering out new terms with Ursula von der Leyen (left), despite warnings from many quarters that he is putting his premiership on the line

No10 is hoping that DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson will make a neutral statement on the protocol deal today

What's the problem with the existing deal?

One of the main problems during the Brexit process was how to treat Northern Ireland.

When the UK became a 'third country', the situation would have been simply solved by creating a 'hard' border with physical checks on vehicles and people.

But that is forbidden by the The Good Friday Agreement, which drew a line under decades of sectarian violence in 1998.

That pact was carefully ambiguous about the status of Northern Ireland, allowing unionists and republicans to claim they had stood by key principles. That relied on both the UK and EU being under the same customs and regulatory regimes.



Boris Johnson agreed the Protocol in the original divorce terms. It attempted to resolve the issues by drawing a supposedly 'invisible' customs line in the Irish Sea, and leaving Northern Ireland in the EU single market.

However, unionists pointed out that the customs border was far from seamless, and have objected in principle to the idea that Northern Ireland follows a foreign power's regulatory rules - without any say over how those rules are set.

How has that affected Northern Ireland politics?

There have been worrying signs of a rise in violent sectarian tensions in Northern Ireland.

The DUP has always demanded the scrapping of the protocol, and forced the suspension of Stormont in February 2022 by refusing to participate in powersharing.

The Good Friday Agreement dictates that both the largest unionist and the largest republican parties must nominate the first minister and deputy first minister roles for the administration to function.

After Northern Ireland elections in May 2022 Sinn Fein emerged as the largest party overall for the first time - meaning they should hold the First Minister role. However, the DUP has continue to boycott the executive.

The UK government is usually obliged to call elections in these circumstances, but they look unlikely to produce a different outcome and have been delayed while a deal is thrashed out.

What has Sunak managed to get from the EU?

Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland.

Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU.

There has been a desperate push from both sides to make progress before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement this spring

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland.

But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

A crucial win is that Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

Will it be enough to win over the DUP and Tory Eurosceptics?

There is no chance of a DUP endorsement today. The best No10 is hoping for is that leader Jeffrey Donaldson will make a neutral statement.

But other unionists are likely to condemn the proposals, and some Tory Eurosceptics are already signalling they will be opposed.

The numbers do look smaller than previous Tory revolts, meaning that Mr Sunak has a good chance of carrying a Commons vote on the new package.

Although formally there is not a requirement for a vote, the government is almost certain to hold one - not least because backbenchers and Labour would find a way of forcing it otherwise.
The 'trauma expert' who Prince Harry is joining for an intimate livestream chat to promote his memoir is a Hungarian-Canadian doctor who was once threatened with arrest for using a 'spiritual' psychedelic drug to treat patients.

Gabor Mate has 20 years' experience working with people suffering from addiction and mental illness, with other specialisms such as stress and child development.

The 79-year-old will join Harry on Saturday to discuss 'living with loss and the importance of personal healing', followed by a live question and answer session.





Dr Mate has a harrowing personal story that has shaped his career. Born in Budapest in 1944, his maternal grandparents were killed in Auschwitz when he was five months old.





He was separated from his mother as a baby to save his life, while his father was subjected to forced labour by the Nazis.





Trauma expert Gabor Mate with his wife, Rae, who he married in 1969

The 79-year-old will join Harry on Saturday to discuss 'living with loss and the importance of personal healing', followed by a live Q and A

The academic has described how he was unable to look at his mother when they were finally reunited due to feelings of 'abandonment, rage and despair'.

He says the trauma he suffered continues to affect his adult life, leading to an intense emotional reaction when he perceives a threat of abandonment, especially from his wife.

He also believes it may have shaped his 'addiction' to shopping for classical music.

'As I was writing about my hardcore, drug-addicted clients I was certainly able to recognize similar areas in myself and in their behaviors,' he told Classical Voice in 2013.

'Working through the emotional dynamics and being with the emptiness that addictions attempt to fill, it just helped me understand myself better.'

The author is an outspoken supporter of decriminalising drugs, and has used the Amazonian plant ayahuasca to treat patients suffering from mental illness.

The psychedelic plant, which is taken as a brewed drink, causes people to experience hallucinations and other side effects, including vomiting.

Ayahuasca has traditionally been used by shamans and traditional healers but is now popular among Western tourists.

It remains illegal in the US, UK and Canada, and in 2011 Canadian officials threatened to arrest Dr Mate if he didn't stop using the drug to treat his patients.

Dr Mate regularly airs his opinions on a range of topics, and in 2021 appeared on a podcast series by the comedian Russell Brand where he discussed the Israel-Palestine conflict.

'There's no way you could have ever created a Jewish state without oppressing and expelling the local population,' he said.

The livestream costs 17 and comes with a free hardback copy of the Duke's memoir

Dr Mate is a Hungarian-Canadian best-selling author and physician who specialises in addiction and childhood development

Dr Mate called Gaza the 'world's largest outdoor prison,' and said that 'given those conditions, of course people will go for extremist leadership' - a reference to the 2006 election victory of Hamas.

'The disproportion of power and responsibility and oppression is so markedly on one side, that you take the worst thing you can say about Hamas, multiply it by a thousand times - and it still will not meet the Israeli repression, and killing, and dispossession of Palestinians,' he said.

He has published a series of books including In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, Close Encounters With Addiction, When the Body Says No, The Cost of Hidden Stress and Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder.

He has received the Civic Merit Award of the City of Vancouver and the Order of Canada for his work on addiction and other mental health-related contributions.

Prince Harry's decision to select Dr Mate to help promote his memoir is another sign of his interest in therapeutic healing, having previously discussed his experience of going through therapy.

The event, organised in collaboration with Harry's publishers Penguin Random House, will take place at 5pm UK time on Saturday March 4.

It comes at a fragile time for the Sussexes, who have seen their popularity ratings in the US drop significantly since the release of Spare last month - and now face a decision over whether to attend Charles' coronation.

Since December last year, Harry's popularity has sunk by 48 points and Meghan's by 40, giving them net approval ratings of -10 and -17 respectively, according to a survey by Redfield & Wilton for Newsweek.

While Andrew is still viewed negatively following his New York civil trial against his sex accuser Virginia Roberts - which he settled out of court - his net approval rating sits at -2, with 26 per cent of Americans saying they like him compared to 28 per cent who do not.

The livestream comes at a tricky time for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have seen their approval ratings plummet since December

The Sussexes' nosediving popularity across the pond comes just days after they were mocked by South Park  a satirical cartoon famed for having its finger on the pulse of American culture.

Respondents were asked if they felt positively or negatively towards Harry, Meghan and Andrew, with the results likely making sober reading for the couple.

Some 32 per cent felt positively about Harry, compared to 27 per cent about Meghan and 26 per cent about Andrew.

However, 44 per cent felt negatively towards Meghan, compared with 42 per cent for Harry and just 28 per cent for Andrew.

Harry's chat with Dr Mate will be the first major appearance for the prince since his publicity blitz in January to promote Spare before its publication.

It comes as he and Meghan face a major decision over whether to attend King Charles' coronation this May amid the ongoing split between them and the rest of the family.

Harry previously demanded an apology from his brother Prince William and father to him and wife Meghan over allegations he set out in Spare.

New data from the US shows the drop in the couple's approval ratings over the last three months

These include the claim that William insulted the Duchess, before hitting Prince Harry so hard he ended up on the floor.

The Palace declined to comment at the time.

Sources suggest neither William nor King Charles are prepared to offer any apology prior to the coronation.

'There is still a huge amount of ill-will boiling over in the family,' one said.

Save the date cards are set to be sent in two weeks to the 2,000 guests who have been chosen to attend the pared-down spring ceremony.

Numbers have been reduced from the 8,251 who attended Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953 to make the event more streamlined amid the cost of living crisis.

Formal invitations to those who have indicated they will accept will not be posted until three weeks before the event itself.

One well-placed source says Harry has made it clear that he wants a private apology of some sort from both Charles and William if he is to attend.

It is unclear whether Meghan will attend the ceremony if Harry chooses to do so, but as the date chosen for the coronation also falls on their son Archie's fourth birthday, there are doubts she will be present regardless of the ongoing family feud.
Hundreds of renters are facing potential homelessness after being told they will need to vacate their apartments to make way for Airbnbs.

Tenants living at the Utopia Suites apartment building in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley claim they are being evicted as management converts the properties into short-term accommodation for tourists.

The brutal move comes as Australia is in the midst of a nationwide housing crisis with rental vacancy rates lingering at a record low of less than 1.0 per cent.

It's unclear how many residents at the Wickham Street building are being forced out, however advocacy group South East Queensland Union of Renters claims it is in the 'hundreds'.

'Residents... report that the landlord building owners have just evicted hundreds of people from their apartments... and intend to replace long-term apartments with Airbnbs,' the group said in a statement on Thursday.

Renter Sarah Nixon is facing an uncertain future after being told she will have to leave her apartment to make way for Airbnbs

Renters at the Utopia Suites apartment building in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley (pictured) claim they are being evicted as management converts the properties into short-term accommodation

Advocacy group South East Queensland Union of Renters claims 'hundreds' could be affected by the evictions, and has warned people could be forced to sleep in their cars

Rent increases in mainland states in past 12 months State Monthly rise Yearly rise WA $180 $2,160 QLD $177 $2,124 VIC $169 $2,028 SA $158 $1,896 NSW $142 $1,704 Advertisement

'While renters are forced to live in cars, crash on their friends' couches, or sleep rough in parks, and thousands of others struggle to meet their needs after high rent, landlords are making a killing off the exploitation of tenants.'

It is understood residents were informed of the building's transition to short-term accommodation via a notice in the lift area from management.

Tenent Sarah Nixon had been living in the Utopia Suites for about 18 months before learning of her eviction, and said she's yet to find a new home.

'I just got told they're not going to be renewing my lease,' she told 7NEWS.

'I got told the owner was moving in, but now they're moving it to Airbnbs,'

'Especially in a rental crisis, it's like, where are we going to go?'

Fellow Resident Shakira Wilson said she 'started freaking out' when told she would have to move, after having only lived in her unit for three months.

However, she said she had been 'really lucky' to be granted another apartment in the complex after asking 'if there was somewhere in the building we could go'.

The building's managing company recently rebranded from Utopia Suites Management Pty Ltd to Kooii Apartments.

The Kooii website says the new offerings will be available from March and would be 'ideal for both leisure and business travellers'.

'Kooii Apartments offers a fresh and new exclusive collection of apartments for short-term stays, combined with amenities like an infinity pool, spa, sauna, gym, roof top cinema, roof top barbecue facilities and outdoor sitting and lounging area,' it says.

The building's management recently rebranded from Utopia Suites Management Pty Ltd to Kooii Apartments and will be offering short-term accommodation

When questioned by news.com.au, Kooii Apartments addressed the claims residents were being forced to leave their apartments for short-term stays.

'We manage just over 200 apartments out of the 300 in the building as property managers for individual owners,' the response read.

'Some of these owners have exercised their option to put their apartments into the short-term letting pool (serviced apartments).

'The apartment owners we represent are entitled to try to maximise their return on their investment.'

Renters across the nation are feeling increasing pressures amid historically low vacancy rates and surging demand, while rent prices have continued to skyrocket.

In Sydney and Melbourne, just 1 per cent of rental properties are available to rent.

Brisbane's vacancy rate sits at 0.8 per cent. It's half that in Hobart, and in Perth and Adelaide it's worse, with just 0.3 per cent available - meaning just one out of every 300 rental properties can be rented at the moment.

The problem is spreading to the regions too, where rental availability has fallen to 0.8 per cent.
Vernon Kay broke down in tears while talking about his BBC Radio 2 role after announcing he will replace veteran broadcaster Ken Bruce on his mid-morning weekday show.

The TV presenter, 48, will take over in May after Bruce's final 9.30am to 12pm show on Friday after 31 years, after Bruce revealed he had been given his marching orders a month early.

Fans greeted the news of his replacement with mixed reviews and branded BBC bosses' decision 'classless', but appearing on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show this morning, Kay paid tribute to his predecessor.

He said: 'My dad is a lorry driver and I said this when I joined Radio 2 and started standing in for Steve Wright, so we've always had Radio 2 on in the background.

'It is part of us, it is in our DNA - Ken Bruce is mid-mornings. You don't think of any other DJ when you think of that slot.

Vernon Kay said the support he had received since the announcement was 'amazing' and had made him feel 'quite emotional'

Veteran DJ Ken Bruce (pictured) is to step down from his popular BBC Radio 2 show and will be succeeded by Vernon Kay

Announcing the news, Kay he was 'absolutely over the moon to be handed the microphone' and 'follow in the footsteps of the mighty Ken Bruce'

'Whatever channel you choose to listen to, whoever is on mid-mornings, it's the Ken Bruce slot. He has made it his own and he is an absolute legend of broadcasting.

'To be asked to step into those big shoes... it was a big deep breath, I'll be honest with you.

'Obviously I am over the moon and so are my parents and Tess and the kids, but it's the Ken Bruce show and the man has raised the bar so high that I'm just so excited to be able to take the reins.

Vernon Kay appeared on Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 breakfast show to discuss his new slot this morning

'I am absolutely over the moon, I really am.'

Kay was moved to tears when reflecting on all the support he has received since he was announced as the new host.

But it comes amid a backlash from loyal Ken Bruce listeners who lashed out at the BBC over the treatment of the veteran Radio 2 presenter.

Ken Bruce is leaving the BBC after 45 years, quitting Radio 2 for Greatest Hits Radio

Bruce, 72, issued a short statement last week revealing he intended to work right up until the end of his contract at the end of March, but his final show will now be on Friday

Twitter users said the treatment of the broadcaster was 'classless' and showed the BBC's ageist agenda

Fans slammed the broadcaster's treatment of the radio presenter online, with one saying it showed 'everything that's wrong with the BBC'.

Others said the corporation had 'no respect' for the listeners and that Radio 2 was 'shooting themselves in the foot'.

But appearing to shake off the backlash on Monday, Kay continued: 'One of the best things that has happened in the past few days is every single person on Radio 2 has messaged me and sent me an amazing either a voicemail, email, a WhatsApp... just saying how overjoyed that I'm joining the family... I'm getting quite emotional.'

Kay also recalled the moment he told his parents about taking over from Bruce.

He said: 'First thing my dad said in the background... my mum always picks up, so in the background my dad went, "Big boots them, son".

'My mum's like, "Norman, give over. Leave him alone. Well done, love".'

Kay, who is celebrating his 20th wedding anniversary to Strictly Come Dancing presenter Tess Daly this year, is known for fronting various shows on Channel 4's T4 as well as ITV programmes including All Star Family Fortunes, Just The Two Of Us, and Beat The Star.

He presented his own BBC Radio 1 show between 2004 and 2012 and another on Radio X between 2015 and 2017.

He is a familiar face on Radio 2, having previously filled in for presenters including Zoe Ball, Steve Wright, Rylan Clark and Dermot O'Leary.

Radio 2 fans have accused the BBC of ageism as a string of older DJs step back, including Paul O'Grady, Steve Wright, Ken Bruce and Simon Mayo

The BBC previously said Gary Davies, host of the station's Sounds Of The 80s, will present the mid-morning show from March 6 until Kay takes over the helm in May on a date yet to be announced.

Poll Is Vernon Kay the best replacement for Ken Bruce? Yes No Is Vernon Kay the best replacement for Ken Bruce? Yes 1280 votes

No 5952 votes Now share your opinion





The DJ will usher in Radio 2's new weekday pop quiz to replace Bruce's popular PopMaster format, as well as continuing his own radio show, which he has fronted since 2018.

It comes after 72-year-old Bruce announced he was leaving the BBC in January before saying he will be moving to Bauer's Greatest Hits Radio in April to present a new mid-morning show from 10am to 1pm.

The radio host, who started at the BBC in his early 30s, said he will 'always be proud' of his association with the BBC and Radio 2 but wants to continue his career 'in a slightly different way in the next few years'.

Presenter Vernon Kay will take over from Ken Bruce on the mid-morning slot in May. The veteran broadcaster's last show will be on Friday

Last week, Bruce tweeted: 'I will be presenting my last show on Radio 2 next Friday.

'I had intended fulfilling my contract until the end of March but the BBC has decided it wants me to leave earlier. Let's enjoy the week ahead!'

Bruce, who has fronted the popular PopMaster show for 31 years, only learned he would finish next week when he was called into a meeting at 12.30pm last Friday.

Speaking to the Mail, Bruce said he was 'surprised and disappointed' by the decision.

He said: 'I was called in at 12.30 and told that my final show would be a week today and wasn't given any real reason that I understood.

'I'm a little surprised and disappointed.'

Friends say he had given a commitment not to say anything that could embarrass the BBC in the remaining weeks of his contract, making him all the more surprised by the decision to end his show earlier than expected.

An industry insider said that move by the BBC made the broadcaster look 'very ungracious' about Bruce's 'decades of service'.

They said: 'It shows zero respect for Ken and what he has done for Radio 2.'

A BBC spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Ken decided to leave Radio 2 and it's always been known he's leaving in March.

'Returning to Wogan House for a week after a month of broadcasting the Piano Room sessions at Maida Vale provided a natural break. We wish Ken all the best for the future.'

Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said: 'Radio 2 is home to some of the UK's best-loved presenters, and I'm thrilled to welcome Vernon to mid-mornings on Radio 2.

'He's a hugely talented, warm and witty host who has already proved himself to be a firm favourite with our listeners when he's presented many and varied shows across the station. I can't wait to hear his brilliant new show.'
A furious woman allegedly cut off her boyfriend's penis after he threatened to spread their sex tapes when she refused to sleep with him.

The man with the initials of GO, 28, was rushed into hospital with blood loss after the reported attack by his lover AST, 28, at a hotel in Sibolga, North Sumatra in Indonesia.

Police claimed that the man made advances towards his partner but she was 'not in the mood' and rejected him during the February 25 incident.

Witnesses said the pair, who had been together for more than half a year, were not heard arguing.

But howls of pain were heard as the man had his manhood severed - he is currently in intensive care.

Suspect, only referred to as AST, reportedly attacked her lover at a hotel in Sibolga

GO, 28 was rushed to the hospital with blood loss and is currently in intensive care

Sibolga Police Chief Taryono Rajarja said: 'Based on the suspect's statement, they had been in a relationship for around seven months. So, they made an appointment to meet at a hotel, then the man asked to have sex, after which the woman refused.

'When he was denied sex, the man threatened to spread the videos of their intimate activities. Then, when he was ready to take a shower, the suspect carried out the attack. She took a knife belonging to the man and cut off his penis.'

Evi Wahyuni Siregar, a receptionist at the hotel, said he did not hear any noise from the couple's room until the incident happened.

He alleged that the woman approached him after the attack, requesting medical assistance for her partner, who was bleeding profusely at the scene.

His penis had reportedly been cut off.

The hotel worker said: 'The woman admitted that they had checked in together. She said they were from Padang Sidempuan city, about to leave for Nias Island.'

The man's lover has been detained in police custody, but has not been charged.

Police Chief Taryono Rajarja added: 'Doctors have given details of the injuries suffered by the man. We are waiting for a time to interview him.'
The niece of former President Jimmy Carter, 98, reveals he might still have some time left as he is talking, eating, and even asked her to drop off some soup.

LeAnne Smith, a niece of Carters wife, Rosalynn, said in an interview on Sunday: 'He had a good day... He's still got some time in him. I just feel like it.'

Ms Smith told FOX News Digital how he was talking and eating and on her way to the interview she was asked to drop off some broccoli and cheese soup to him and his wife.

Earlier this month, The Carter Center announced on Twitter that following a series of short hospital stays he has 'decided to spend his remaining time at home with his family and receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention.'

The 98-year-old who has dedicated his life to public service and charity has the full support of his medical team and family.

Jimmy Carter's niece revealed the former president has 'still got some time in him' as he decided to receive hospice care and 'spend his remaining time at home with his family'. Pictured: The former U.S. President taking questions during a news conference at the Carter Center in Atlanta n August 2015

The former President's niece visited the 98-year-old on Sunday and brought him soup upon his request. Pictured: LeAnne Smith decorating Main Street with peace signs she made in the hometown of the former president on February 22, 2023 in Plains, Georgia

He did not, however, elaborate on what conditions had prompted the recent hospital visits.

The Democrat was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma that was detected in his liver and spread to his brain in early 2015, but he has since revealed that he is no longer suffering from the condition.

The Navy veteran and Nobel Peace Prize winner, became the 39th U.S. president when he defeated former President Gerald R. Ford in 1976.

He served a single term that was blighted by an oil crisis that forced Americans to wait in line for gas, and was defeated by Republican Ronald Reagan in 1980.

Carter became the oldest living US president in history after the passing of George H.W. Bush, who died in late 2018 at 94.

Since he departed from the White House, he has committed himself to philanthropy and living a peaceful life with his wife of 76 years Rosalynn, his four children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ms Smith is not the only family member to pay him a visit, as grandson Jason recently that he visited his grandparents and said they 'are at peace andas alwaystheir home is full of love'.

Kim Fuller, another of Carter's nieces, spoke of her uncle's legacy during last week's sermon at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where he used to teach, following the news that he was moving to hospice care.

Suzanne Smith told FOX News Digital that Fuller claimed Carter's legacy was felt around the world.

The Carter Center announced following a series of hospital stays, Carter has chosen to spend his remaining time at home in Georgia (pictured) with his family and receive hospice care

President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter dance at a White House Congressional Ball in 1977. The couple celebrated 76 years of marriage earlier this year

'He's helped eradicate guinea worm, he's helped build houses for people around the world. He's, you know, that the Carter Center in the work of the church is something that will be far beyond what's happening here in Plains and people around the world,' Suzanne Smith said.

She added: 'And so, his legacy will be that in addition to all the things that I've talked about, that was done pretty well, but his legacy will be, stick to your faith from the day you start to the day you manage and you're going to be okay. And that's what I have tried to come from now last week.'

Born on October 1, 1924, he rarely used his full name James Earl Carter, Jr. and was raised during the Great Depression.

He is the son of a Georgia peanut farmer and peanut farming, talk of politics, and devotion to the Baptist faith were said to have been the pillars of his upbringing.

In 1946 he graduated from the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland and married Rosalynn Smith shortly afterward.

The couple has three sons, John William (Jack), James Earl III (Chip), Donnel Jeffrey (Jeff), and a daughter, Amy Lynn.

Carter served seven years as a Naval Officer before returning to Georgia, where he entered state politics in 1962.

Eight years later, he was elected Governor of Georgia.

President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter dance at a White House Congressional Ball in 1977. The couple celebrated 76 years of marriage earlier this year

He launched a bid for the White House in 1974 and built momentum over the next two years, beating out President Gerald R. Ford.

While president, he established two new cabinet-level departments: the Department of Energy and the Department of Education.

He said that he aimed to make government 'competent and compassionate'.

By the end of his administration, inflation and interest rates were at near record highs but Carter could still claim an increase of nearly eight million jobs and a decrease in the budget deficit.

He had also worked on the energy shortage by establishing a national energy policy and by decontrolling domestic petroleum prices to stimulate production.

Both during and after his presidency, he became known as an international human rights champion.

Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 after he created the Carter Center to promote human rights worldwide.

The center began to work toward the eradication of Guinea worm disease in 1986, when 3.5 million people had it. Last year, only 54 did, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

In Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Guatemala, the center established a river blindness eradication program which helped eliminate the disease.

Despite receding from public view due to health issues, Carter remains a quiet force in politics at home and, through his post-presidential Center, in public health and human rights advocacy around the world.

Only a handful of former presidents have lived past 90 years, including former President Ronald Reagan, Carter's successor, who lived to be 93.

However, Carter has now earned the title as the the oldest living president aged 98 as he lives out the rest of his time peacefully alongside his family.
It was a blaze that helped Adolf Hitler cement his power in Nazi Germany - and the mystery of who started it has dogged historians for decades.

Dutch Communist Marinus van der Lubbe, having been found guilty of starting the Reichstag fire on this day in 1933, was guillotined and buried in an unmarked grave.

Now, 90 years on, what is believed to be his body has been exhumed - and experts are excitedly awaiting a pathologist's report to see if the remains contain traces of toxins.

Whilst most historians have long believed that van der Lubbe was responsible for the fire, it may be the case he was drugged by the Nazis, either to facilitate a truthful confession or to make sure he remained silent about possible co-conspirators.

Adolf Hitler, who had been chancellor of Germany for less than a month when the Reichstag burnt down, used the inferno as a pretext to seize dictatorial powers in Germany and clamp down on Communists and other political enemies.

It has led some to speculate that the fire was a false flag operation to ensure Hitler could carry out his power grab, but others think it was pure luck.

Dutch Communist Marinus van der Lubbe, having been found guilty of starting the Reichstag fire on this day in 1933, was guillotined and buried in an unmarked grave. Above: Van der Lubbe outside court during his trial (left); a memorial commemorating van der Lubbe at Sudfriedhof cemetery in Leipzig. It was put up in 1999

The Reichstag fire, on this day in 1933, helped Adolf Hitler to cement his power in Nazi Germany

Van der Lubbe was executed on January 10, 1934, and then buried in the Sudfriedhof cemetery in Leipzig.

A heavy boulder was placed on top of his coffin. The grave was opened once before in 1953, and a second coffin was later placed on top of van der Lubbe's.

A regulation that had been in place to ensure that the second coffin was not disturbed lapsed in 2017.

By then, because there had been a total of 35,000 unmarked graves in the area, it was unclear exactly where van der Lubbe lay.

But Alfred Otto Paul, 70, the founder of the Paul-Benndorf Society, a heritage organisation that maintains graves in Leipzig, used cemetery records and historical maps to narrow down its location.

The body was exhumed on January 25 and it quickly became clear that the person had been decapitated, indicating that it was van der Lubbe.

The main aim of the exhumation was to establish that the body is that of van der Lubbe, and to mark his grave properly.

A spokesman for the Paul Benndorf Society told The Guardian that the body has since been identified 'beyond doubt' as belonging to van der Lubbe.

A pathologist is now examining the remains for toxins and the results are expected in a few weeks.

Adolf Hitler, who had been chancellor of Germany for less than a month when the Reichstag burnt down, used the inferno as a pretext to seize dictatorial powers in Germany and clamp down on Communists and other political enemies. Above: Hitler with supporters

Van der Lubbe was said to have gone from being healthy and energetic to being apathetic and unable to wipe his own nose. Above: The Dutchman at his trial

Van der Lubbe was said to have gone from being healthy and energetic to being unable to being apathetic and unable to wipe his own nose.

Journalists at the time of his trial suggested he could have been given scopolamine, which has been dubbed a 'truth serum' for its alleged ability to get those who are given it to reveal information.

Some believed that the Nazis used the Dutchman to disguise having started the fire themselves, although there has never been evidence to prove the theory.

Today, a delegation from the Netherlands is commemorating van der Lubbe in Leipzig and his remains have already been re-interred.

A memorial stone will be placed on the grave at a later date.

In September 1933, the Daily Mail reported how Germany's propaganda ministry had claimed that van der Lubbe had been examined by a Swedish criminologist and Dutch newspaper editor to make sure that he had not been drugged while in custody.

Journalists at the time of his trial suggested he could have been given scopolamine, which has been dubbed a 'truth serum' for its alleged ability to get those who are given it to reveal information. Above: Van der Lubbe at his trial

Marinus van der Lubbe and his interpreter Meyer-Collings are seen standing at the trial

Van der Lubbe insisted that he acted alone to inspire others to his cause and to revolt against 'capitalist rule and fascist seizure of power'

It added: 'They are said to have received reasonable replies to their questions to him and to have observed the remains of a luncheon of sandwiches and chocolate on his table.'

Most historians have long believed that van der Lubbe acted alone in starting the Reichstag fire and that the timing was just very fortunate for the Nazis.

Eminent British historian Richard Evans dismissed the idea of a Nazi plot to start the fire as a 'conspiracy theory.'

Van der Lubbe was the only person arrested in the burning Reichstag.

He repeatedly insisted in the weeks before his execution that he had acted alone to inspire others to his cause and to revolt against 'capitalist rule and fascist seizure of power.'

A Daily Mail news report from September 30, 1933 of van der Lubbe's trial showed how he said 'Yes' when asked if he was guilty of arson

However, van der Lubbe had very poor eyesight, no apparent knowledge of the layout of the Reichstag and only a couple of basic coal lighters.

But the entirety of the Reichstag's chamber was left a smoking ruin.

Historian Peter Black previously told The Smithsonian Magazine that the suggestion that van der Lubbe was solely responsible was false.

'I would say that van der Lubbe could not have started that fire alone, based on the evidence that is now available,' he said.

'It seems likely that the Nazis were involved. But you don't have anyone who can say, yes, I saw the Nazis.'

The Reichstag, in Berlin, is seen ablaze as German citizens look on. The fire was a political gift to Hitler

The uproar generated by the Reichstag fire, which was immediately blamed on the 'enemy within', enabled Hitler to secure re-election as chancellor.

The poll had been called after the collapse of a short-lived coalition government headed by Hitler. It took place just six days after the fire.

By then, Hitler had persuaded German's president Paul von Hindenburg to issue the Reichstag Fire Decree, which suspended civil liberties in Germany.

It led to the mass arrests of communists, including all communist delegates in the Reichstag.

This then crippled communist participation in the elections and helped Hitler to victory.
Keir Starmer today said it is 'almost inevitable' that EU judges will keep a role in Northern Ireland - as he committed to backing Rishi Sunak's new Brexit terms.

The Labour leader acknowledged he had not seen the full package thrashed out with the EU, but argued that anything would be an 'improvement'.

Answering questions after a speech on the economy in London, Sir Keir said he believed the PM recognised the European Court of Justice will still have a 'part to play' in the province.

The comments came as Mr Sunak prepares to meet Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor later to finalise overhauling the Northern Ireland protocol.

Downing Street insists the premier has achieved 'significant and far reaching' concessions.

Answering questions after a speech on the economy in London, Sir Keir said he believed the PM recognised the European Court of Justice will still have a 'part to play' in Northern ireland

However, the DUP is not expected to give its verdict immediately and has set red lines that are unlikely to be met - including completely removing the role of the European Court of Justice. Unless the unionists agree to rejoin powersharing at Stormont the political crisis will continue.

Mr Sunak could face a rough ride from Tories when he makes a statement to the Commons this evening after staging a press conference with Ms von der Leyen. Some MPs are already warning that the agreement will not be satisfactory - although other previous hard-liners insist they are open-minded.

Sir Keir repeated his offer to bail out Mr Sunak with Labour votes if a big Tory revolt threatens to wreck his latest deal with the EU. However, relying on the Opposition would be politically catastrophic for the Tory leader.

Asked if he would back the deal, Sir Keir said: 'Yes, we haven't seen the deal yet, but I'm completely across what the issues are and what the practical solutions are.

'Frankly, any step in those directions is going to be an improvement on what we've got, which is why I can say with confidence we expect to be able to back the deal.

'It's not going to be a surprise, it's not going to be out of the blue, we've been working on these problems for a very, very long time and know what some of the solutions are.

'Look, it's almost inevitable that the ECJ will have to play some part in this, I think the Prime Minister recognises that, the Government recognises that, but we've got to make progress.'

Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

The Labour leader acknowledged he had not seen the full package thrashed out by Rishi Sunak (pictured) with the EU, but argued that anything would be an 'improvement'

Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

A crucial win appears to be Mr Sunak persuading the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.
An elderly man has turned up alive nine years after his family believed they had cremated him following a car accident, reports say.

Zhuo Kangluo, who was found 'dead' at the roadside after fleeing a Chinese care home, is said to have appeared alive in a village.

Reports of a man acting strangely were first received by Chongqing authorities in August, according to China News Network.

Officers initially struggled to identify the man given his refusal to answer questions, but a DNA test on Tuesday reportedly matched with the brother of Zhuo Kangluo.

Nine years ago, a man who died from a car accident was wrongly identified as Zhuo by relatives and villagers.

Zhuo Kangluo has reportedly turned up alive after family thought he was dead for nine years

Zhuo Kangluo, who was found 'dead' at the roadside in 2014 after fleeing a Chinese care home

The body was cremated after his nephew allegedly did not want an autopsy and DNA testing was unavailable for immediate relatives.

The man's likeness was also said to be recognised by Zhuo's grandson when looking at a missing persons poster.

On visiting him, the man reportedly burst into tears and could also correctly spell the names of those related to him.

Chinese authorities are now said to be working to identify the man who was mistakenly thought to be Zhuo in 2014.

Care has been given to Zhuo following his reappearance.
Activists decry a cable car project on Mt. Seorak during a press conference in Wonju, Gangwon Province, Feb. 2. Yonhap



The environment ministry on Monday gave a conditional nod to a controversial project to build and operate a cable car system over a natural reserve area on Mount Seorak near Korea's east coast.



The project, pursued since the 1980s, seeks to build a 3.3-kilometer-long cable car system between the Seoraksan National Park's Osaek area in the county of Yangyang and near the mountain's summit.



Once completed as planned, the system will service 53 cable cars to carry up to 825 passengers per hour.



The site is within a state-designated natural reserve as well as a biosphere reserve designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).



The environment ministry's regional office in Wonju gave "conditional consent" to an environmental impact assessment report submitted by Yangyang County on the project, saying it carries measures to reduce negative environmental effects.



In effect, the decision marks the clearance of all administrative hurdles for the project besides a regional budget review by the interior ministry.



It will mark the first cable car line to be installed in an inland national park since the last approval was granted in 1989 for a gondola lift system over a mountain peak in Mount Deogyu in North Jeolla Province, which went into service in 1997.





This file image shows the site of a controversial cable car map on Mount Seorak, Feb. 27. Courtesy of Yangyang-gun
A man alleges his girlfriend tried to run him down with her car because he asked for a hot chip, a court heard.

Matthew Finn made the extraordinary claim at the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday where his partner Charlotte Harrison, 42, faced a bail hearing charged with aggravated endangering life and driving in a reckless or dangerous manner.

Mr Finn told the court he made the mistake of asking for and getting a chip from Ms Harrison's chicken and salad pack while the two were in her Subaru travelling on north Adelaide's busy Melbourne Street on Sunday afternoon.

'I shouldn't have asked for the chip,' Mr Finn told Nine News outside the court.

'I had a chip and she'd pulled over and asked me to get out.'

Matthew Finn (pictured right) has accused his partner Charlotte Harrison (pictured left) of trying to run him down because he asked for a hot chip out of her takeaway pack

Ms Harrison denied the allegations in court and claimed she had come to Mr Finn's aid that day because he'd called her saying he was unwell.

She said she was taking him to hospital but on the way he had assaulted her in the vehicle making her stop to let him out, the court heard.

Ms Harrison's duty solicitor said she 'was not intending on harming' Mr Finn but accidentally hit the accelerator while trying to do a U-turn on her way to notify police, the Adelaide Advertiser reported.

The car eventually crashed into another vehicle driving in the opposite direction.

'She has seen him run off, she has attempted to do a U-turn to go to the Norwood Police Station,' her duty solicitor told the court.

'She has, by mistake, stepped on the accelerator rather than the brake and then hit the pole as described in the CCTV footage.

'It's accepted that on viewing the CCTV footage that it might look like there was an attempt to endanger the complainant's life.'

The duty solicitor told the court Ms Harrison had told him she had allegedly been assaulted by Mr Finn previously and that he was a drug user who had spent time in prison.

Ms Harrison's Subaru crashed into an oncoming car on Adelaide's busy Melbourne St shopping strip on Sunday

Ms Harrison (pictured) told court she had picked up Mr Finn to take him to hospital when he assaulted her in the car

Ms Harrison, who sacked her first lawyer and then briefly represented herself before calling on the duty solicitor, told the court she should be released on bail because she 'complied with police' and 'did not flee the scene of the accident'.

Magistrate Ben Sale said he was concerned Ms Harrison was a 'flight risk' and that the description of the CCTV of the incident provided by police was 'concerning'.

Magistrate Sale ordered a home detention bail inquiry report and said he was likely to release her under those orders depending on the report.

Prosecutors are yet to make their allegations.

Ms Harrison will conclude her bail application in the court on Friday.
King Charles has arrived at Windsor Castle to meet Ursula von der Leyen after she agreed a new Brexit deal with Rishi Sunak - dragging the monarch into a constitutional row.

The royal will have tea with the European Commission President less than two hours after she signed off on changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol at a five-star hotel four miles from His Majesty's Berkshire home.

Mr Sunak has been accused of 'antagonising' Unionists in Northern Ireland and Brexiteers with Buckingham Palace insisting the Windsor Castle meeting was called on 'Government advice'.

But the PM's official spokesman later said that the decision was 'fundamentally' one for Buckingham Palace, adding Mr Sunak 'firmly believes it's for the king to make those decisions. It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently'.

Jacob Rees-Mogg has insisted the meeting should not go ahead, claiming: 'It antagonises the people the PM needs to conciliate. It is constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy'.

Former DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf'.

Rishi Sunak (left today) has been accused of dragging King Charles III into politics with the monarch meeting EU chief Ursula von der Leyen at Windsor Castle today

The plan to meet the King did not go down well with some Unionists, including former DUP leader Arlene Foster

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen as they agreed a new Brexit deal in Windsor today

The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen have held 'final talks' in Windsor on Monday before the breakthrough was announced at around 2.30pm. And now it has emerged that King Charles will also meet her at his Berkshire castle for afternoon tea on a highly politically sensitive day for the country.

Buckingham Palace said: 'The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Government's advice that he should do so.' A broad range of issues will discussed including climate change and Ukraine. Brexit may also come up, but Mr Sunak will not be there.

Ms von der Leyen arrived in London by Eurostar this morning and said she is 'looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend', ahead of her meeting with the PM and the King.

Responding to Foster tweet, PM's spokesman said: 'There will be a range of views. With regard to Ms von der Leyen meeting the King, that is fundamentally a matter for the palace.'

ERG member and Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg said today the meeting with the King would be a mistake. The former Cabinet minister Mr Rees-Mogg said: 'It is surprising that The King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the PM needs to conciliate'.

He also told GB News: 'I think the sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted.

'The King gives assent to Acts of Parliament when Parliament has agreed, he doesn't express his view on Acts of Parliament when they are going through the process.

'I think the same applies, that His Majesty should not be involved until there is full support for this agreement.'

The PM and EU commission president have finalised the Northern Ireland package, the culmination of months of painstaking negotiations, after talks in Windsor.

Cabinet will now be briefed on the agreement, before the pair hold a press conference.

Downing Street has hailed 'significant and far reaching' concessions, and there are bombshell rumours this afternoon that the DUP is ready to shift position and accept the agreement.

The reports come despite the unionists having set red lines that looked very difficult to meet - including completely removing the role of the European Court of Justice. Having the DUP on board would pave the way for the restoration of powersharing at Stormont.

Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson played down the claims in the Irish News, tweeting: 'Well take our time to consider the detail and measure a deal against our seven tests.'

In other positive noises for Mr Sunak, Northern Ireland minister and self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker - who has been on 'resignation watch' over the past few days - said this afternoon that the government is on the verge of a 'fantastic' deal.

Mr Sunak could still face a rough ride from Tories when he makes a statement to the Commons this evening.

Allies of Mr Sunak are waiting nervously to see how Boris Johnson will react to the revised terms.

Meanwhile, the government is facing a furious backlash for dragging the King into the political pressure-cooker - as Charles will meet Ms von der Leyen separately this afternoon during her visit.

The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen (pictured striding through St Pancras today) met to agree a deal today

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker was in Downing Street again today, amid rumours that whips have put him on 'resignation watch'

Mr Sunak tweeted ahead of the meeting with Ms von der Leyen

Jeffrey Donaldson tried to cool claims the DUP is ready to back the PM's Brexit deal for NI

Former Cabinet minister Nadine Dorries dismissed the warm words from Mr Baker

Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

Sir Jeffrey said before the announcement: 'I'm neither positive nor negative. I think we need to take time to look at the deal, what's available, and how does that match our seven tests.'

What could Rishi's new Brexit deal for NI include? Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU. Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London. In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU. In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do. Advertisement

Tory Eurosceptics were largely keeping their powder dry this morning.

But Mr Baker moved to quash rumours he will quit after another bout of talks in No10.

He told broadcasters: 'I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.'

In a round of interviews this morning, Jacob Rees-Mogg did not rule out backing the plan, but suggested Mr Sunak will fail to win over the DUP.

The ex-Cabinet minister told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'There are two things we need to know: one is what the DUP thinks, because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement.

'So, if the DUP doesn't think that it meets test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

'I'm afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say 'we need to see the legal text', they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.'

Ms von der Leyen is also holding talks with King Charles during her visit to Windsor.

That has caused a wave of anger among DUP and Eurosceptic figures that the monarch is being dragged into the contentious politics of Brexit.

Buckingham Palace seemed to point the finger at ministers by saying the government had advised that the King should meet the visiting dignitary.

Ex-DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one.

'It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.'

Mr Rees-Mogg said was 'constitutionally unwise' for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen around the signing of the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: 'It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

'It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

The PM's official spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes 'fundamentally' the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

'He firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions,' the official said.

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today.'

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, the spokesman said: 'There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant occasions, this is no different.'

Downing Street has stressed that there are still substantive issues for the PM and Ms von der Leyen to address this afternoon, although they are thought to have tied up the main elements in talks by phone yesterday.

Irish deputy leader Micheal Martin has said that European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen's visit to London is a sign of 'very significant and substantial progress' in protocol negotiations between the UK and EU.

'I think we'll leave it to both the President of the Commission and the British Prime Minister to announce whatever has to be announced this afternoon, but I think it's clear that very significant progress has been made,' he told RTE Radio.

'Over the last number of months, trust did build up between the two parties. Very substantial and serious negotiations have taken place in fairly significant detail, working up fairly substantive papers.'

Mr Martin said the customs data agreement struck earlier this year was a 'gamechanger' that 'facilitated a new fresh approach to that issue'.

The foreign affairs minister said the primary concerns that have been articulated by unionism in particular  include the bureaucratic barriers to goods being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the 'democratic deficit' on what input Northern Ireland would have on any future EU regulations, and state aid issues  had been heard.

'All of these issues, I think, have been responded to. I think the European Union has listened,' he said.

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak chat as they go into the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel today

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan (left) and Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden (right) were in Downing Street for the Cabinet meeting this afternoon

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt was at the Cabinet discussion to sign off the deal today

What is the Brexit row about and what has been the impact on Northern Ireland? The UK and the EU have been engaged in intense negotiations over the workings of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the original withdrawal agreement that allowed the UK to leave the EU. It was designed to ensure the free movement of goods across the Irish land border with Ulster after Brexit. Rather than being an internal EU line between two countries, with Brexit it became a border between the bloc and a third party country with different customs and trade rules. In any other cases it would be solved simply by creating a 'hard' border - physical checks on vehicles and people travelling between the two. But the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence in 1998, expressly prohibits a return to such checkpoints on the island of Ireland. To get around this the protocol instead created economic barriers on trade being shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. It has proven to be deeply unpopular with unionists, who claim it has weakened Northern Ireland's place within the UK. Last year the DUP collapsed the powersharing institutions at Stormont in protest at the arrangements. It came as the party was replaced as the largest in the powersharing government by Sinn Fein for the first time. And the DUP is refusing to back a deal and restart powersharing unless their concerns are realised. They have set seven tests that it must pass to be approved. Advertisement

Mr Sunak has said the deal 'will show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job', adding: 'This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

'It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.'

The package is expected to include a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply in the province.

The PM held private talks in No 10 with Mr Baker yesterday in a sign of concern about resignations, while a survey by the grass-roots Conservative Home website found Tory activists oppose the idea of Mr Sunak's plan by 41 per cent to 36.

Former Brexit minister Lord Frost has urged the PM to revive the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, saying it was vital to be 'really tough' with Brussels.

The European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs has said it will establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to examine whether the new deal meets their sovereignty tests.

Meanwhile, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said it was a 'red line' for his party that 'there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK'.

Cabinet ministers, who will be formally briefed on the plans this afternoon, were last night ringing round Conservative MPs to shore up support.

Mr Sunak is expected to unveil the details in a statement to Parliament this afternoon.

However, there has been concern that MPs have not yet been guaranteed a vote on the deal.

Some are concerned that they have been left in the dark during talks.

One MP claimed Downing Street had kept them out of the loop to 'set everything up' and present the deal as 'a fait accompli'.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

No10 has been warned that rebels will force an indicative vote whether they want one or not.

The PM will tell MPs that his deal will secure Northern Ireland's place in the Union and protect the future of the Good Friday Agreement.

It is expected to lead to the scrapping of a barrage of EU checks on goods sent to the province from the rest of the UK, which have caused major problems for businesses and families, and led to unionist fears that Northern Ireland could be forced out of the UK.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said Mr Sunak was 'on the cusp' of a deal that would result in the 'substantial scaling back' of the role of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland.

Mr Raab said the deal would mark a 'paradigm shift' in relations and 'would be very good news for the communities of Northern Ireland and I think for the Good Friday Agreement as well'.

Ministers are optimistic that they can win over most Eurosceptic Tory MPs with a deal which Mr Raab said would 'properly and fully get Brexit done' and open the door to warmer relations with the EU.

But senior figures in the DUP warned that they were not yet convinced the deal would deliver enough to persuade them to re-enter power-sharing in Northern Ireland, a key objective of the PM.
Republican legislator Michael McCaul has reaffirmed US concerns that China will supply Russia with lethal military aid.

The chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee said in an interview on Sunday that the US believes China is currently considering sending drones to Russia to support its invasion.

McCaul said that Putin and Xi Jinping have an 'unholy alliance', shown in China's continued support for Russia's energy trade.

This followed on from comments from secretary of state Anthony Blinken last weekend that China was 'strongly considering providing lethal assistance to Russia'.

He said 'further information' to support the claims 'will be out there soon.'

German magazine Der Spiegel first reported last Thursday that Russia was in talks with a Chinese manufacturer to buy 100 prototype ZT-180 drones, delivered by April.

Republican Michael McCaul reaffirmed concerns China would supply Russia with new drones

Vladimir Putin (CR) and Xi Jinping (CL) are seen together at the 70th anniversary of the 'Great Patriotic War' (1941-45) in May 2015.

Western leaders have expressed concerns about the reports.

German chancellor Olaf Scholz told ZDF public television on Thursday, referring to more general suggestions that China might directly help Russia's war effort: 'I have told China's representatives that it cannot be accepted.'

The sale of ZT-180 drones, reportedly similar to Iran's Shahed 136 drones which Russia has reportedly used in Ukraine, would mark a significant turn in the war and in relations between China and Russia.

China has bought Russian energy despite western sanctions throughout the war.

Exporting to large buyers China and India have also helped soften Russia's recession, with fiscal revenues increasing overall. Exports from Russia to China increased 43% year-on-year in 2022.

Neil Thomas, senior analyst for China and Northeast Asia at Eurasia Group, told CNN: 'Xi Jinping wants to deepen China's relationship with an increasingly isolated Russia,' which it has done through trade.

But China has avoided directly sending munitions to Russia so far.

Maria Shagina, a sanctions expert at the International Institute of Strategic Studies, told the BBC last week: 'Some Chinese companies are also supplying civilian drones, exploiting the grey space between military and civilian purposes.'

The US has already imposed sanctions on a Chinese company allegedly providing satellite imagery of the warzone to China.

The ZT-180 drones made by Xian Bingo Intelligent Aviation Technology can reportedly carry a 35-50kg warhead.

Der Spiegel also reported that the Chinese manufacturer had plans to help establish a production site for the drone in Russia, capable of producing 100 drones per month.

A contractor for Xi'an Bingo told VICE World News that the drone maker denied that they had any 'commercial contact' with Russia.

They said they would only accept interviews from domestic outlets.

Image shows a Russian drone considered to be an Iranian Shahed-136, similar to the ZT-180s

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov (left) is pictured with president Vladimir Putin (right)

Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov today declined to comment on the claims that China was considering sending Russia drones.

He said that while for now he did not see signs of a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine, China's aim to lead a peace plan for de-escalation between Russia and Ukraine should be 'analyzed in detail'.

'We are paying a great deal of attention to the plan of our Chinese friends ... This is a very long and intense process,' Peskov told reporters.

China, which has refused to condemn Putin's invasion of Ukraine, last week published a 12-point plan calling for a ceasefire.

Kyiv struck a receptive tone on some aspects of the plan while reiterating there could be no peace without a total Russian withdrawal - a non-starter for Moscow.

China's foreign ministry said it had kept contact with all sides in the crisis including Kyiv and its position was clear.

'The core is to call for peace and promote dialogue and promote a political solution to the crisis,' foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told a news briefing in Beijing.

Both Ukraine and Russia are currently preparing for the war to open up as winter ends.

As Zelenskyy has sought greater material backing from the west, supplying tanks, drones and significant financial aid, Putin has increasingly sought to replenish numbers and modernize armored divisions.

Moscow's forces are currently incurring huge losses in trench warfare as they struggle to make further gains in eastern Ukraine.

To break the stalemate, experts believe Russia will seek greater support - including military backing - from China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin pose for a photo prior to their talks in Beijing, China, on 4 February 2022

CIA Director William Burns said at the weekend on CBS News' "Face the Nation" that Xi Jinping appeared suprised by how poorly Russia had fared in the invasion so far.

He also noted the U.S. intelligence agency believed Beijing was considering military aid to Russia, though it had not reached a final decision.

'If it goes down that road it will come at real costs to China,' U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told CNN.

Sullivan noted that 'at present, China has not moved forward [with giving military aid to Russia], as far as we can discern. We have not seem them do it.'
JK Rowling's abusive former husband has accused the novelist of being 'delirious'  after she claimed that he hid the unpublished manuscript of the first Harry Potter novel to stop her leaving him.

In a sensational podcast, the multi-millionaire author said 'controlling' former Portuguese TV reporter Jorge Arantes kept the pages of Harry Potter and The Philosopher's Stone 'hostage' as their marriage broke down.

Talking on 'The Witch Trials of JK Rowling' she said she even feared he 'would burn the pages' - and started secretly photocopying them to protect them in case they were lost.

But disgraced Mr Arantes, 54, who has admitted slapping his ex-wife during their turbulent marriage, denied that he had even taken the book  and even made the extraordinary claim he helped write it.

In a bizarre rant from his home in Portugal, he said: 'I don't know why she is saying what she is now, maybe she is delirious from three years of Covid lockdown.

JK Rowling's former husband Jorge Arantes (pictured outside his Porto home this week) has claimed he participated in the writing of the first Harry Potter book

Ms Rowling married Mr Arantes in 1992 after meeting him in a bar in Portugal where she had moved to work as a teacher following her mothers death

'I was surprised when I read about this. I deny it. It doesn't make any sense. Why would I do something like that? Maybe you should ask her.'

JK Rowling revealed her abusive ex-husband hid the manuscript for the first Harry Potter novel in a bid to stop her from leaving him

Seemingly trying to take the credit for Ms Rowling's wildly successful Harry Potter series, he went on: 'When she was writing the book, I was participating in it, she was reading it out to me, and I was reading it to her.

'The first book was fascinating; the writing was wonderful, and I always liked it because we shared a passion for literature, and especially literature for children.

'The project was for seven books, and I was very involved with the first one and she knows that. She started writing it when we were together.'

Mr Arantes and Ms Rowling, 57, tied the knot in 1992 in the Portuguese city of Porto following a whirlwind romance, having met in a bar after she moved there to teach English.

Heis said to now live a solitary life in the same city where the former couple met more than 30 years ago - their love blossoming over their shared interest in Jane Austen.

A wedding certificate obtained by MailOnline shows how the couple lived with Mr Arantes' mother Marilia Rodrigues  who died in 2020 aged 90 - in Porto.

Ms Rowling moved to Portugal after her mother's death and the couple had a daughter, Jessica, now 29, but the writer left him just a year later after he had dragged her out of the house and attacked her.

Ms Rowling, who has been happily married to Dr Neil Murray for 21 years, had hinted there had been violence in their short-lived relationship, but in 2020 she revealed that he had beaten her in the street.

When confronted by reporters, he was unrepentant, admitting he hit her hard in the face and didn't regret it.

Mr Arantes also revealed that he had no relationship with his daughter.

On the podcast, Ms Rowling said: 'The marriage had turned very violent and very controlling. He's searching my handbag every time I come home.

'I haven't got a key to my own front door because he's got to control the front door. And I think he's not a stupid person. I think he knew, or suspected, that I was going to try and bolt again.'

The former couple with their daughter Jessica, who is now 29 and uses the surname Rowling

Mr Arantes 52, did confess to slapping his ex-wife after she walked out on their brief marriage taking their daughter Jessica with her. He said he didn't regret it

Ms Rowling described living in 'a horrible state of tension' with Mr Arantes because she had to hide her desire to leave him.

She went on: 'And yet the manuscript kept growing. I'd continue to write. In fact, he knew what that manuscript meant to me because at one point he took the manuscript and hid it and that was his hostage.'

Ms Rowling described how she became increasingly determined to leave, and she would secretly 'take a few pages of the manuscript into work every day  just a few pages so that he wouldn't realise anything was missing  and photocopy it'.

She added: 'And gradually in a cupboard in the staff room, bit by bit, a photocopied manuscript grew and grew and grew, because I suspected that, if I wasn't able to get out with everything, he would burn it or take it or hold it hostage.

'That manuscript still meant so much to me. That was the thing that I actually prioritised for saving. The only thing I prioritised beyond that, obviously, was my daughter, but at that point she's still inside me, so she's as safe as can be in that situation.'

Describing the night she walked out on Mr Arantes, Rowling said: 'There came a night where he became very angry with me and I cracked and I said "I want to leave".

'He became very violent and he said, "You can leave but you're not getting Jessica, I'm keeping her, I will hide her".

'So I put up a fight and I paid the price. There was a violent scene which terminated with me lying in the street.

'I went to the police and filed a complaint and the next day went back to the house with the police and got Jessica.'

Mr Arantes, pictured in Porto this week, blasted his ex-wife as 'delirious'

JK Rowling has found love and happiness with her second husband Dr Neil Murray

The Witch Trials of JK Rowling is a seven-part podcast in conversation with the author, hosted by American activist and journalist Megan Phelps-Roper

Megan Phelps-Roper, host of The Witch Trials of JK Rowling podcast

She said she had fiercely protected her privacy after becoming famous because of her fears of being tracked down by Mr Arantes.

Who is JK Rowling podcast host Megan Phelps-Roper? Megan Phelps-Roper is the granddaughter of Fred Phelps, pastor of the notorious Westboro Baptist Church. The church was made famous by a 2007 Louis Theroux fly-on-the wall documentary on the extremist group, dubbed the most hated family in America. Ms Phelps-Roper, from Kansas, left the notorious church in 2012 after 27 years of controversial preaching, which included picketing the funerals of American soldiers and publicly celebrating when strangers were diagnosed with cancer. Appearing in BBC2's Louis Theroux: Life On The Edge, Megan spoke of the 'pain' she felt being ostracised from her family and how, after becoming a mother herself, it had become even more difficult to think of her own mum, Shirley Phelps-Roper. Westboro Baptist Church has made international news many times for its strong views against homosexuality. It was founded by the late Fred Phelps who, according to the church, had 13 children and 54 grandchildren. Made up mostly of the Kansas-based Phelps family, the religious group blames most tragedies - from the death of American soldiers to the massacre of 20 children and six adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School - on what they call a 'pro-gay' agenda in America. Theroux encountered the group - known for its homophobic hate speech - during his 2007 documentary The Most Hated Family In America, and again for a follow-up in 2011 in America's Most Hated Family In Crisis. The original documentary saw members holding placards with the words God Hates F**s', F**s Doom Nations and Thank God for Dead Soldiers', at the funerals of U.S. personnel killed in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2013, Megan announced that she and her sister Grace, now 26, had left the Westboro Baptist Church. Her Ted Talk, I Grew Up in the Westboro Church  Heres Why I Left, in which she details the shift in her perspective that caused her to quit the church, has been viewed more than nine million times online. Advertisement

Ms Rowling revealed he had followed her to Edinburgh and broken into the first home she bought with money from her publishing deal for her debut Potter novel, which came out in 1997.

She said: 'I was so ill-equipped for what happened to me. It was changing faster than I could deal with and all the time I had this lurking fear because I know there is someone out there who does not wish me well.

'The reason we left the first place was my ex-husband arrived and broke in. Moving became quite a pressing issue at that point.

'I was trying to reconcile suddenly having a lot of press interest with really, really wanting to live under the radar for very concrete reasons.

'I was living in a state of real tension I couldn't express to many people.'

A spokesman for Ms Rowling said the novelist did not want to comment on her ex-husband's latest claims.

Mr Arantes now lives alone in the first floor flat behind a cemetery and close to an arts school in the historical part of Porto.

For a time he lived in Paris with his brother, who works as a travel agent.

Despite having a child together, Ms Rowling and Mr Arantes are not thought to have had any contact since the end of their marriage. Jessica uses the surname Rowling.

Neighbours told MailOnline in 2020 Mr Arantes rarely leaves his apartment and instead spends his days inside listening to loud music.

One said: 'He does not get up very early, and sometimes we see him in the afternoon.

Following Ms Rowlings revelations in 2020, Mr Arantes told The Sun: I slapped Joanne  but there was not sustained abuse.

'Im not sorry for slapping her.

In an earlier conversation about the relationship he said: She refused to go without Jessica and, despite my saying she could come back for her in the morning, there was a violent struggle.

'I had to drag her out of the house and I admit I slapped her very hard in the street.

Ms Rowling has been married to Dr Neil Murray since 2001 and the couple have two children.
A British widower has been found dead at the roadside of a coastal town in Chile, it has been reported.

Investigations have commenced following the discovery of a 67-year-old man at the side of the T-354 road in Niebla, southern Chile.

On Sunday, the local police station received reports from a 74-year-old local that the man had gone for a walk at around midday.

While officers confirmed he was of English nationality, it was also claimed that he had a Chilean ID card and visited the nation often, according to The Sun.

The man was reportedly found with a head injury, but it is not yet clear what caused his death.

A 67-year-old man of English nationality was found at the side of the road in Niebla, Chile (Pictured: Niebla)

More to follow.
Chicago inmates have claimed they are being pressured to illegally vote in the city's mayoral election.

The inmates, some who are accused of murder, argued guards at Cook County Jail were pushing them to vote - despite some being registered in a different jurisdiction.

They claimed the guards were receiving orders from higher up and were 'just doing what I'm told' when confronted over the move.

It comes amid fears of ballot harvesting as insiders claimed the jail was the 'ideal environment' due to no cameras or election observers.

It also raised concerns it could propel Lori Lightfoot back into office, despite her languishing on just 13 percent in the polls.

One inmate, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told DailyMail.com the guards didn't seem to care that they might be breaking the law.

He said: 'I asked him [the guard], 'Did you ask people first if they're registered to vote?' And he said 'no'.

Chicago criminals have claimed they are being pressured to illegally vote in the city's mayoral election. One inmate, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told DailyMail.com the guards didn't seem to care that they might be breaking the law.

'I said but you should because if I'm registered to vote somewhere else like I am, you are asking me and enticing me to vote even though I'm registered somewhere else and that's a felony. I can't be voting in two different jurisdictions.'

He claims another guard told him that he was 'just doing what I'm told'.

An inmate being held on murder charges, also says 21 of the 48 inmates in his Division 11, have already voted but none were asked if they were registered or eligible to vote.

'They just say who wants to vote? Line up to vote,' he said.

An unnamed source familiar with Cook County Jail said it is the ideal environment for ballot harvesting.

'Cameras inside the Jail notoriously don't work. There aren't any election observers. If an inmate complains, who would believe them? So, if you wanted to manipulate a ballot, who would know?'

There are 7,480 inmates under the custody of the Cook County Sheriff, with 72.3 percent being black, 19 percent Latino and 7.8 percent white.

Inmate offenses range from murder and carjacking to sexual assault of a minor and armed robbery.

Chicago voters say that violent crime is their top concern in the mayor's race, with it continuing to rocket under Lightfoot.

With nine candidates - including Mayor Lightfoot - vying for Chicago mayor, the source said the political stakes are high and pressure is coming from top Cook County jail officials to turn out the prison vote for this week's mayoral race.

Last week, Lightfoot was criticized for telling voters on Chicago's South Side they should not vote at all if they do not vote to re-elect her. She now insists she misspoke.

She said: 'If I said anything other than everybody everywhere needs to vote, then I misspoke in the heat of a campaign rally.

'But I've been very consistent all along saying everybody everywhere needs to step up, and they need to vote just as I said today.

Last week, Lightfoot was criticized for telling voters on Chicago's South Side they should not vote at all if they do not vote to re-elect her. She now insists she misspoke

Lightfoot was also dinged for posting a graphic on Twitter that encourages Chicagoans to vote more than once in the mayoral election.

The latest polls show former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas widening his lead to 32 percent, Cook County Board Commissioner Brandon Johnson at 18 percent and Mayor Lightfoot struggling at 13 percent.

Fourteen percent remain undecided. If no candidate receives a clear majority of the vote, a runoff election will be held on April 4.

Election officials are anticipating multiple requests for recounts, which will not begin until two to three weeks after Tuesday's election.

Lightfoot has struggled in her re-election bid for Chicago Mayor as voters say they feel unsafe in the crime-ridden city.

A spokesman for the Cook County Sheriff said: 'It appears that neither you nor the individuals making these claims understand how the voting process works.

'The Jail simply serves as a polling place, and the Sheriff's Office has absolutely no oversight of voting operations or polling place procedures.

'Registered voters are free to choose whether they would like to vote, but no one who is not registered to vote is able to vote in an election, including Tuesday's election.'
Famous as the first drink aimed directly at women, Babycham gained legions of fans and heralded a change in British drinking culture - and is now looking to make a comeback.

Concocted 70 years ago, the sparkling perry is instantly recognisable thanks to its 'Bambi' deer logo and goblet-style branded glasses.

The drink, created in 1952 by West Country brewer Francis Showering, went on to become a marketing phenomenon in the 1960s and 1970s.

At its peak in 1977, the sweet-tasting alcoholic drink sold 144 million bottles a year. The drink, made from perry, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented pears.

It has been made for centuries in the west of England, and is particularly popular in Somerset, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

Famous as the first drink aimed directly at women and the first alcoholic beverage advertised on television, Babycham gained legions of fans

Th sparkling fizz soon became a must-have tipple for women in pubs and clubs

However, pears are difficult to harvest at the right point and so to make it commercially viable Showering's version used a juice concentrate.

Mr Showering, a brewer from Shepton Mallet in Somerset, started to enter his 'champagne de poire' in agricultural shows, where it was a resounding success.

However, the drink, which is served in baby bottles, became known as 'baby champ' and hence earned its trademark name.

After testing the product at local markets, Babycham was launched across the UK in the 1950s and was the first alcohol drink specifically aimed at women.

Th sparkling fizz soon became a must-have tipple for women in pubs and clubs.

At its peak in 1977, the sweet-tasting alcoholic drink sold 144 million bottles a year.

Famous as the first drink aimed directly at women, Babycham gained legions of fans

Popularised with the enthusiastic slogan Id love a Babycham, it took the place of previous ladylike options at the bar, such as port and lemon, or milk stout.

Its clever branding, being marketed as closely associated with champagne, proved immensely successful among punters - but landed it in hot water with French champagne producers.

As the ad said, 'The Babycham bottle fills a champagne glass!'

The company successfully fought off a legal battle with French champagne makers over its association.

The Showerings offered shares to the public in 1959, and in 1968 Babycham merged with Allied Breweries.

As time went on, the TV ads became more glamorous, with one starring Patrick Mower on a yacht in the Mediterranean, with a Babycham in hand.

Babycham adverts were specifically marketed at women and became a must-have tipple

The drink, created in 1952 by West Country brewer Francis Showering, went on to become a marketing phenomenon in the 1960s and 1970s

The family which invented the drink in 1952 have bought it back after decades in mass-production

Although it has continued to be sold, Babycham has more recently been sidelined by the growth of alcopops and cocktails.

Now, the family which invented the drink have bought it back after decades in mass-production and are planning to go back to the future to restore the brands fizz.

It is now being made at its old base in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, and there are plans to revive old production methods and the original recipe.

Concocted 70 years ago, the sparkling perry is instantly recognisable thanks to its 'Bambi' deer logo and goblet-style branded glasses

Matthew Showering, of the Showering brewing dynasty whose grandfather, Francis Showering, invented Babycham, said: We will get closer to the original production method and recipe, as some things got chiselled away for speed with mass production.

And we are going towards the original look too, so well have quite a retro feel which, oddly, will make it more modern.

Speaking to the Observer, he said he believes Babychams original attributes were what made it a success, so its important to stick with that. Its why it took off.

He believes the perry will be able to hold its own against dry sparkling wines including Prosecco and Champagne - and hopefully attract a younger following.

Famous as the first drink aimed directly at women, Babycham is now looking to make a comeback and take on prosecco and Champagne makers

At its peak in 1977, the sweet-tasting alcoholic drink sold 144 million bottles a year. The drink, made from perry, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented pears

Workers in the Babycham factory in Shepton Malett, Somerset

Mr Showering said: If you were to put a Babycham and a prosecco, or even a Champagne, side by side, there are an awful lot of people who would actually prefer the Babycham, because it hasnt got that dry rasp. He added: We want to keep that sense of celebration about it.

Back then, nearly all drinks were sold in pubs, and Babycham were the masters of point-of-sale marketing. Youd have a glass there on show and maybe a little deer on the bar.

Mr Showerings family have run their brewery for 14 generations.

He and his brothers, Jonathan, Francis and Daniel, also set up Brothers Drinks in the 1990s and became official partners of the Glastonbury festival.

Mr Showering said his grandfathers original drink commercialised what had been a prized tipple in south-west England for centuries.

Popularised with the enthusiastic slogan Id love a Babycham, it took the place of previous ladylike options at the bar, such as port and lemon, or milk stout

Babycham was a marketing phenomenon of the 1960s and 1970s

He said: In Somerset, landowners gave the farmers the cider, and kept the perry for themselves. After winning prizes at agricultural shows, Showerings perry, sold in little bottles, picked up the nickname baby champ - and the drinks popularity mushroomed.

London advisers came up with early slogans and designed the baby deer logo, with its winsome blue bow.

Mr Showering said: The family really hit the jackpot with Babycham, and it meant that it became quite a big company that was able to go on to buy other brands like Britvic and Harveys.

But then it was merged with Allied Breweries in 1968.

We bought back the old factory in 2016, but last year was a big year too, because we also bought back the original offices and the Babycham brand.

As well as the relaunch of the drink, the Showerings are even revamping a 15ft statue of the Babycham fawn on the factory roof, which had been battered by decades of Somerset wind and rain.

Mr Showering said: We got a car company to give it a fantastic spray job and we will get it up on the roof again soon.
The heartbroken family of Jansen Panettiere has paid tribute to the actor after he suddenly died last week.

The 28-year-old reportedly died 'from an enlarged heart' according to a statement issued by his relatives, who say it was confirmed by the Medical Examiner.

Jansen was found dead at his apartment in Nyack, New York - close to where h and Hayden grew up in Palisades - on February 19, by friends who were 'concerned' when he missed a meeting.

Pals found him 'sitting upright in a chair unresponsive' and began performing CPR before his father Alan 'Skip' Panettiere arrived.

In a statement, the family said: 'Jansen's heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit.

Jansen was found dead at his apartment in Nyack, New York, by friends who were 'concerned' when he missed a meeting. The siblings pictured with their mother Lesley R. Vogel, a former soap opera actress, in 2019

Police are still investigating Jansen's death on February 19 as his family have paid tribute to the 'creative spirit'

'His charisma, warmth, compassion for others, and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered.

'Though it offers little solace, the Medical Examiner reported Jansen's sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications.

'We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss, and ask that we be gifted our privacy during this time of mourning.

'We love you so much Jansen and you will be in our hearts forever.'

Actress Hayden has been left 'inconsolable' over her brother's death, with neighbors telling DailyMail.com that Jansen had been abusing prescription painkillers  believed to be Oxycodone  and had been 'popping them like gumballs' over the years.

Sources said that Jansen seemed to have sobered up after completing a stint in rehab last year, before falling off the wagon again in recent months.

The Rockland County Medical Examiner would not confirm the cause of death when contacted by DailyMail.com.

Actress Hayden has been left 'inconsolable' over her brother's death, with neighbors telling DailyMail.com that Jansen had been abusing prescription painkillers  believed to be Oxycodone

In January, Jansen shared a series of photobooth photos on Instagram in which he is seen kissing his girlfriend, ICU nurse Catherine Michie

Neighbors say they wouldn't be surprised if the actor-cum-artist had suffered a fatal overdose, saying Jansen was often seen returning to his apartment in the early hours of the morning looking 'wasted' and 'shabbily dressed.'

One revealed The Walking Dead star lived at an apartment building on Main Street until a year and a half ago, when Jansen mysteriously disappeared from the scene for 'a good year.'

'He'd come out of a car at 4am wasted,' said the local. 'He said he was just coming back from a shoot. He looked destroyed.'

The neighbor described Jansen, who was born and raised in the Rockland County area, as a 'regular, friendly' and 'unpretentious' guy who never spoke about his famous sibling or his own work as an actor.

'He was very nice guy, very friendly, he was an artist and an actor. Very friendly and generous; he would always offer me help,' he added.

'When he moved out of here; he disappeared. Then his father came and got his stuff out and said I have to get him out of here. Then he left for a year.'

The neighbor said Jansen 'resurfaced' in town at some point last year but had moved to another apartment a few blocks away.

Jansen (seen with his sister left in 2008 and right in 2013) passed away in Nyack, New York

Jansen was a budding graffiti artist who wrote on his website: 'I don't do anything illegal illegal or at least I don't do illegal things that hurt people in front of me, if that makes sense'

'When he left he probably went into rehab. He moved out, his dad grabbed his stuff,' the neighbor added.

'When he came back he looked okay in the beginning. He looked like a different person. He came back straightened up. Then he went downhill from there.'

According to a police report, Jansen's body was discovered in his home by three friends who found him 'unresponsive' in a chair and desperately tried to revive him with CPR.

Upon arrival, the friends  who have been identified as Benjamin Brown, Joe Fails, and Lars Arianti  found Jansen 'sitting upright in a chair unresponsive' and desperately began performing CPR in the hopes of reviving him.

Fails phoned 911, while one of the others got in touch with Jansen and Hayden's father, Alan 'Skip' Panettiere, who arrived on the scene as Brown was doing chest compressions.

Skip told EMTs that he had spoken to his son 'via telephone the night before' and that he had 'sounded okay'.

Jansen with sister Hayden. Over the years his work has included roles in The Walking Dead, Major Crimes, Even Stevens, Blue's Clues, Ice Age: The Meltdown, and Robots; Pictured 2019

Having started painting at a young age, Jansen ultimately used his art in order to 'heal himself' from his mental health struggles

When EMTs arrived at Jansen's home, he was 'laying on his back on the living room floor, not breathing, and cold to the touch with lividity'; the 28-year-old was pronounced dead on arrival by a Nyack EMT.

'Deceased was pronounced dead on arrival by an EMT,' the report continued. 'There were no obvious signs of trauma observed.'

The police report was released to the public just hours after a source close to Hayden revealed that she had been left 'inconsolable' by the loss of her only brother and 'best friend'  who had been battling 'terrible anxiety and depression' before his death.

According to the insider, Jansen had been 'having a rough time lately with his career' and felt as though he was 'being dragged in so many directions'.

His final photo, posted to Instagram on February 6, showed him grinning broadly in the small town. 'Graffiti is illegal,' he captioned the picture.

His girlfriend, Catherine Michie, commented: 'The law can't stop Jansen Panettiere.'

Panettiere, an actor and graffiti artist, was struggling with his mental health.

'Hayden is just inconsolable. He was her best friend and her only brother. He was such a nice guy but he lived on the edge.'

Jansen was the Nashville star's only sibling. Hayden has not yet addressed his unexpected passing; They are pictured on January 24, less than a month before his death

Jansen, who was five years younger that his sister, followed Hayden's footsteps into acting. The duo also worked together on Tiger Cruise in 2004, and Racing Stripes in 2005; Pictured 2010

Angelina Jolie also grew up in the area where the siblings lived, and it has been home to a number of stars over the years, including Al Pacino, Bill Murray, Rosie O'Donnell and Diane Sawyer.

According to a biography on Jansen's website, the former actor-turned-artist had been struggling with 'terrible anxiety and depression' as an adult, a condition that was triggered while he was living in Los Angeles.

It noted that he would later find 'healing' in his artwork.

The siblings were last seen together less than a month before his death. Jansen shared a picture of Hayden cutting his hair on January 24.

'Not the first haircut she's tried to give me,' he joked in the caption.

He also posted a throwback of the duo from a rafting trip on November 4, 2022.

He shared his last post over the weekend, featuring a new snap of his graffiti artwork.

On January 12, Jansen had also shared a series of images of himself in a photobooth with Michie, an ICU nurse.

According to Jansen's website, he began suffering from 'terrible anxiety and depression' after 'spending time in LA as an adult'

The image collection showed the pair beaming happily for the cameras with their heads together, while one snap captured them sharing a sweet kiss.

He captioned the post, simply: 'My babe.'

Hayden and Jansen were born to Lesley R. Vogel, a former soap opera actress, and Alan Lee Panettiere, a captain in the Fire Department of New York City.

Jansen, who was five years younger that his sister, followed Hayden's footsteps into acting. His IMDb lists the 2022 comedy Love and Love Not as his last role.

His other work includes roles in The Walking Dead, Major Crimes, Shia LaBeouf's TV show Even Stevens, Blue's Clues, Ice Age: The Meltdown, and Robots.

He also had a recurring role as Truman X in The X's on Nickelodeon.

The duo also worked together on Tiger Cruise in 2004, and Racing Stripes in 2005.

Jansen received a nomination for a Young Artist Award in 2008 for his work on The Last Day of Summer.

At the time of his death he was attached to five different projects.

Jansen's death comes less than five years after Hayden lost custody of her daughter Kaya amid her substance abuse struggles

Hayden signed over custody of her daughter to her ex, former heavyweight boxer Wladimir Klitschko, in 2018  but she has since said that she was forced into the arrangement

Jansen also had a website for his graffiti art, with his bio reading, 'I AM a good person. I don't do anything illegal illegal or at least I don't do illegal things that hurt people in front of me, if that makes sense.

'I've done drugs but I don't steal. Not to say that anyone that's ever stolen something is a bad person and far from it. Meaning I have my moments like everyone else.'

'I was frustrated with the whole acting thing so I would take it out on weird things things like clothes.'

The news of Jansen's passing is the latest in a line of tragedies to befall Hayden  who spoke out just last year about her devastation at losing custody of her daughter Kaya while she was struggling with substance abuse issues.

Hayden opened up about her lengthy addiction struggles in a July 2022 interview with People magazine, revealing that her drug abuse began when she was just 15 years old  and then spiraled out of control while she was battling postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter Kaya in 2014.

His IMDb lists the 2022 comedy Love and Love Not as his last role. At the time of his death he was attached to five different projects

'As I got older, the drugs and alcohol became something I almost couldn't live without,' Hayden confessed  revealing that her struggle with postpartum depression combined with her reliance on drugs and alcohol resulted in her making the 'heartbreaking' decision to send her daughter away to live with her father, Wladimir Klitschko, in Ukraine.

'I would have the shakes when I woke up and could only function with sipping alcohol,' she admitted. '[Sending Kaya away] was the hardest thing I ever had to do. But I wanted to be a good mom to her  and sometimes that means letting them go.'

Hayden said that she did not drink while she was pregnant with Kaya, but she admitted that she fell off the wagon soon after her daughter was born, and from there, her alcohol issues continued to spiral out of control.

After she sent her daughter away to live with former heavyweight boxer Klitschko, 46, from whom she had split just months before following a nine-year on-off relationship, Hayden's drinking continued to worsen  to the point where she had to be hospitalized with jaundice.

'Doctors told me my liver was going to give out,' she admitted. 'I was no longer a 20 year old who could just bounce right back.'

The former child star, who began acting on-screen at the age of five, when she landed roles in popular soap operas One Life to Live and Guiding Light, says her drug abuse issues started when she was just 15  one year before she began filming hit TV series Heroes.

At the time, she claims members of her team began giving her 'happy pills' in an effort to make her seem more 'peppy' during interviews.

Jansen Panettiere had been 'popping pills like gumballs' a neighbor revealed to DailyMail.com

'I had no idea that this was not an appropriate thing, or what door that would open for me when it came to my addiction,' she explained.

In September, Hayden shed further light on her custody battle with her boxer ex, claiming that Wladimir was refusing to let their daughter visit her mother in California  while accusing him of forcing her to give up her child.

After spending years struggling with substance abuse issues, Hayden signed over full custody of Kaya to Klitschko, 46, in 2018, but in a candid interview on Red Table Talk, she claimed that it was 'not' a mutual agreement.

'I thought she was going over to visit him like she always did  she went back and forth between me in Nashville and Ukraine  but once she was over there, [he] was immediately [like], 'I want full custody of her,' which was a shock for me,' she explained.

'It wasn't my decision. In fact, I didn't even know it was happening until she was already over there. In a country that's very male-dominated, there wasn't a heck of a lot that I could do.

'It wasn't a discussion. If [Klitschko] had come to me and said, 'I think because of where you're at right now and your struggles that you're having it would be good for her to be over here with me for a while...'

'If I had probably had enough of a conversation I would've said, 'OK, that makes sense, I get it, I'll come there to visit,' stuff like that.
Notorious prisoner Charles Bronson has railed 'why am I still in prison' in his first televised interview in over three decades - due to be shown in a Channel 4 documentary tonight.

The hardened criminal spoke to his son George Bamby-Salvador on video chats from HMP Woodhill for the programme, which airs at 9pm.

Bronson 70, said: 'I'm focused, I'm settled, I can actually smell and taste freedom like I've never, ever done in me life.

'I'm now anti-crime, anti-violent. What the f**k am I still in prison for?'

Since 1974, Bronson has amassed 17 convictions of a string of violent offences and has taken 11 hostages over his criminal career - including holding prison art teacher Phil Daniels at spearpoint for 43 hours in 1999.

Paparazzi photographer George Bamby-Salvador (right) discovered that he was the son of Bronson (left) after a phone call in 2017. A DNA test shown on national television confirmed the relationship

The notorious criminal was filmed speaking for the first time since 1989. He told his son George Bamby-Salvador that he didn't regret his life

The 70-year-old said one of his biggest regrets was that he was moved three weeks before the 1990 25-day HMP Strangeways riot and that: 'You can't live your life regretting your life.'

He will face a public parole hearing from March 6 to 8 after being the first prisoner in the UK to request one.

Paparazzi photographer Mr Bamby-Salvador discovered that he was the son of the notorious criminal after a phone call in 2017. A DNA test shown on national television confirmed the relationship and he has spent several years campaigning for his father's release.

For the documentary, Mr Bamby-Salvador filmed video calls with Bronson sitting in his prison cell, wearing a succession of slogan T-shirts.

Bronson admitted to having a 'horrible, nasty, vicious, violent past' but said he had never killed anyone or harmed women or children.

When asked if he had changed his ways, Bronson claimed that the thing he was most proud of in his life was his art.

He recently launched a new exhibition in the hopes of showing his fitness for release, with pieces selling for between 700 and 30,000.

But Bronson also said one of his 'great regrets' was that he wasn't serving time in HMP Strangeways during the infamous riot in 1990.

George Bamby, a paparazzi photographer who didn't know Bronson was his father while growing up, has been campaigning for his release for several years

'Three weeks before that kicked off I was actually in Strangeways and I moved from Strangeways to Parkhurst.

'I f*****g missed it by three weeks. When I was there it was bubbling up then, really bubbling up, you know?'

He described the conditions in Strangeways before the riot: 'Cons were three to a cell. You imagine shitting in a bucket with another two men in the same cell.

'It is a great regret of mine. I would have loved I think I'd have still f*****g been up there.'

Bronson has made seven failed parole appeals and appealed his life sentence in 2004, describing his treatment in solitary confinement as 'torture'.

When he was convicted of false imprisonment in 2000 after taking a prison teacher hostage for 43 hours in HMP Hull, he was given a minimum term of four years.

The documentary interviews Bronson himself, his son George Bamby and experts to interrogate the prisoner's claims that he should be free

The prisoner, who was filmed by his son George Bamby on a secure video call from prison, said the thing he was proudest of was his art

The criminal has been held in each of England's secure hospitals, including Broadmoor, and befriended the infamous Kray brothers in jail

The parole board confirmed that Charles Bronson's hearing is set for March 6 and March 8, and said that reviews are undertaken thoroughly and with extreme care

The violent offender said he 'over-reacted' during the attack but did not say he was remorseful.

'I went over the top as I normally do. I never hurt the man. Mentally, obviously I did. He didn't deserve what he got, but did I deserve a life sentence just for wrapping him up?

'When you're locked up in a concrete coffin, 23 hours of a 24 hour day, sometimes in life you've got to do something mad.

'The madder it is, the more dangerous it is, the better it f*****g is. I've gotta be honest with you, I've had a fucking party, you know.'

Phil Danielson, the prison art teacher Bronson kidnapped in 1999, said the 43-hour ordeal had affected him permanently, adding: 'The damage that was caused by him has moulded my whole life since 1999 - 23 years nearly.'

Bronson has plans to move to Devon, near where Mr Bamby lives in Torbay, and live in a caravan making art if he is released

The criminal attacked and kidnapped prison art teacher Phil Danielson in 1999 and was sentenced to life in 2000

He was diagnosed with PTSD and acute anxiety disorder after suffering breakdowns and has been unable to work since the attack.

'It will be with me for the rest of my days because if it hadn't have happened I would probably just about now, at 60, thinking about retiring.

'Mentally I couldn't bring myself round to do it [to work]. That's why it was decided that I was unfit to teach.

'On a personal level, I'll never forgive him for what he did to me and my life.'

The former teacher said Bronson admired him for being the only one of his hostages not to soil himself during the kidnapping.

Mr Danielson said that while part of him thinks justice has been done, Bronson needs to express regret for his actions before he is released.

He added: 'I think he needs to show remorse and it needs to be documented remorse, not a load of clever talk to get in the papers.'

The parole board confirmed that Charles Bronson's hearing is set for March 6 and March 8, and said that reviews are undertaken thoroughly and with extreme care.

After rule changes made last year, Justice Secretary Dominic Raab could intervene in the case even if the parole board decides to release the violent offender.

Bronson has plans to move to Devon, near where Mr Bamby lives in Torbay, and live in a caravan making art if he is released.

A JustGiving page has been set up by Mr Bamby and has raised nearly 4,000 for to buy a caravan for his father.

Bronson said that the last time he was released from prison, in 1995, he had a 'shorn-off shotgun' within 48 hours.

Bronson completed a Violence Reduction Programme at HMP Wakefield in 2012, but another violent incident was reported in 2018.

Twelve prison guards were forced to intervene after the prisoner 'covered himself in margarine'.

Kevin Lane, who was sentenced to 22 years for murder and lived with Bronson in prison, said the penal system is 'run on violence'.

'If I was an animal in the zoo, I'd bite someone, and that's what he does.'

Bronson, pictured on his way to a parole hearing at the Old Bailey in 2004, was first locked up for armed robbery in 1974

Bronson has been diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder and paranoid personality disorder and has spent time in England's three special psychiatric hospitals, including Broadmoor

Mr Bamby said his father should have the chance to show that he was no longer a threat to the public.

But he also recognised the potential that his father could reoffend when he comes out of prison, including by attacking him.

He added: 'He has been really violent in the past and he could come out and cause someone some real damage, but we won't know that until he comes out and gets given the opportunity to prove that he's changed his ways.

'I could be being completely f*****g manipulated by my old dad and he could get out of prison and fall out with me one day and kick the living f****g s**t out of me one day and stab me with a bread knife.'

Criminal forensic psychologist Kerry Daynes said the violent reoffending rate for prisoners over the age of 70 was nil.

'Charlie might be the exception to that rule,' she said. 'Anybody reading about Charlie's history was told to take a deep breath and think about how can this man move forward, who is capable of such violence and what does that mean for his future?'

Bronson has been diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder and paranoid personality disorder, the psychologist said, and has spent time in England's three special psychiatric hospitals.

He befriended the infamous Kray brothers while in prison and took up illegal bare-knuckle fighting when he was released in the 1980s on the advice of Reggie Kray.

The criminal recently said he was still able to do '95 press-ups in 30 seconds' and exercises regularly.

Bronson was born Michael Peterson in 1952 to Aberystwyth barmaid Eira Peterson, whom he called The Duchess.

He moved to Ellesmere Port to live with his grandparents and met his first wife, Irene, who gave birth to their son Michael in 1971.

Bronson was imprisoned in 1974 for armed robbery, aged 22, and has been in and out of prison ever since.

Bronson has changed his name to Salvador

Tom Hardy (pictured) played the hardman in the 2008 biopic Bronson, which is loosely based on the prisoner's life

During his time inside he has taken hostages in ten prison sieges, attacked at least 20 prison officers and caused 500,000 in damage in rooftop protests.

He has been moved prisons more than 120 times during his 43-year spell behind bars - much of which has been spent in solitary confinement.

Bronson changed his name to Salvador in 2014 in honour of the artist Salvador Dali and has won multiple prison awards for his poetry, art and prose.

Tom Hardy played the hardman in the 2008 biopic Bronson, which is loosely based on the prisoner's life.

The Channel 4 documentary will be shown on Channel 4 at 9pm this evening and the second part will air tomorrow night at the same time. Both episodes will be available on All 4 from this evening.
A Thai 'drug lord' drastically altered his face through plastic surgery in a failed attempt to dodge authorities, police say.

Saharat Sawangjaeng changed his name and face to appear as a 'handsome Korean man' after undergoing numerous surgical procedures.

Although Saharat wanted 'a new life' in South Korea, police managed to track him down and have charged him with the illegal import of narcotics.

Cops said the change in his appearance was such that 'none of his original face was left'.

The 25-year-old admitted last week to buying drugs with Bitcoin on the dark web before dealing them to customers in Thailand's capital.

Before surgery: Saharat Sawangjaeng (pictured), 25, has been charged with the illegal import of narcotics

Police managed to track Saharat Sawangjaeng down and have reportedly since charged him

Thai Police major-general Theeradej Thammasutee told The Strait Times that he was 'importing MDMA from Europe at just 25 years old', adding that he was 'one of the main causes of Bangkoks MDMA epidemic'.

MDMA is a recreational drug taken as ecstasy pills that can act as both a stimulant and psychedelic.

Police have reportedly been trying to track Saharat down since December last year and managed to do so through tracing the distribution of Bangkok's ecstasy.

Authorities had also previously arrested Saharat three times prior to his surgical procedures and knew what he once looked like.

On one occasion, Saharat was allegedly caught with 290 ecstasy pills and 2kg of liquid narcotics when previously detained on an assault charge.

He went under the knife after managing to escape detention with witnesses then describing him as a 'handsome Korean man' to police.

Last week Saharat, who then went by the name of Seong Jimin, was caught by authorities at a condo in Bangkok.

Following his arrest, investigations are said to be taking place regarding further suspects beyond Thailand.

However, in a video of his arrest, Saharat claimed he could not name the people dealt with when importing drugs from the Netherlands.

Explaining his dramatic transformation, he told cops: 'I want to start a new life. I am bored of Thailand.'
Unification Minister Kwon Young-se speaks at a press briefing after he made policy reports to President Yoon Suk Yeol over his ministry's major tasks for 2023, Jan. 27. Yonhap



Seoul's point man on North Korea said Monday it is "too early" to determine whether North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's recently revealed daughter, Ju-ae, is the country's heir apparent despite her recent high-profile public appearances.



Ju-ae, believed to be around 10 years old, has appeared in public on seven occasions since the North disclosed her for the first time in November, fueling speculation she may be groomed as Kim's successor.



"Even if North Korea begins its succession plan now, the question remains over whether she will be able to lead the North Korean regime that is centered on the military," Unification Minister Kwon Young-se said in an interview with local radio station CBS, noting that the North's society is "much more patriarchal" than that of the South.



Kim has "clearly shown" his intent to hand down his power to the family's fourth hereditary successor though it is a "bit too early" to consider Ju-ae as the successor, the minister added.



Kwon also said he cannot confirm whether Kim has a son, widely believed to be his first child.



Kwon stressed the North could fire an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) at a normal angle in the future, allowing it to fly with a range capable of striking the mainland United States.



"The North could also test-fire its ICBM with a range of over 13,000 kilometers to crash somewhere in the Pacific Ocean," he said.



Earlier this month, Pyongyang test-fired a Hwasong-15 ICBM at a lofted angle toward the East Sea.



He also pointed out that the North could conduct a seventh nuclear test soon, saying that the reclusive country has "been keeping Tunnel No. 3 and No. 4 at its nuclear test site in Punggye-ri well prepared (for the experiment)." (Yonhap)


It comes after she shared earlier in the month she and her two kids were also ill

His wife Alejandra released new images of the couple taken over the break

Richard Gere is 'mostly recovered' after he contracted pneumonia in Mexico

Richard Gere's wife has said the actor is mostly recovered after being hospitalized with pneumonia.

Alejandra Gere posted a series of photos to Instagram from the couple's recent trip Mexico with the caption, 'as you can see we are mostly recovered'.

Gere, 73, was diagnosed with the lung infection after checking himself into a hospital near their vacation home in Nuevo Vallarta, TMZ reported earlier this month.

He was said to have been suffering from a cough prior to the trip but that his health deteriorated so severely he felt the need to seek medical attention.

Gere spent one night in the hospital and was discharged the following day having been prescribed antibiotics, according to the outlet's sources.

Richard Gere, 73, was 'mostly recovered' according to his wife Alejandra, with whom she he is seen celebrating her 40th birthday in Mexico

Gere was reportedly hospitalized with pneumonia and discharged a day later. The two are pictured attending a National Geographic Documentary Film event in May 2022

'What an amazing birthday! Thank you all my friends and family for make it so special!' said Alejandra in an Instagram post after the trip.

Alejandra, a Spanish publicist and longtime family friend of Gere's, married him in 2018 on his massive ranch in upstate New York.

The pair have since had two sons together - Alexander, four, and a two-year-old whose name has not been made public.

Both children accompanied the couple on their latest Mexico trip, during which Silva revealed all four of them had recently been ill.

She wrote on Instagram after his release form hospital: 'Thank you all for the birthday wishes.. after almost 3 weeks of everyone being sick in our family today finally I feel much better! Thank you for all the love I give it all back to you!'

Before his relationship with Silva, Gere was married to 1990s supermodel Cindy Crawford and actress Carey Lowell.

Gere and Lowell were married from 2002 until 2016. When he and Alejandra went public in 2015, both he and her were in the process of divorcing their previous spouses.

'What an amazing birthday! Thank you all my friends and family for make it so special!' said Gere in an Instagram post after the trip

Gere, pictured last August at the Magna Graecia Film Festival in Catanzaro, Italy, married Alejandra in 2018 and the pair have two children

Both their children accompanied the couple on their latest Mexico trip, where Silva revealed all four of them had fallen ill

Along with their two boys, Gere has a 23-year-old son, Homer, whom he shares with his second ex-wife, Carey Lowell, while Silva has a nine-year-old son, Albert, who arrived during her first marriage to her first husband Govind Friedland, a mining magnate.

Gere's illness came during a celebration of his wife's 40th birthday in Mexico.

Alejandra revealed recently that given the couple's 33 year age gap that Gere made a promise to her that he would be around long enough to see their two children grow up and become adults.

'He has promised me at least 20 good years!' she said, before sharing how at 73, Gere still has the energy of a young man. 'But I have to confess that he has much more energy than me, is much more active. It's hard to keep up with him.  He's not human!'
Alex Murdaugh's defense today claimed two shooters killed Maggie and Paul because his son's killer would have been 'stunned' by an explosion of blood and brains.

Timothy Palmbach, a crime scene expert hired by the defense, told jurors that the 22-year-old suffered a 'contact wound' meaning the muzzle of the 12-gauge shotgun was touching the back of his head.

Maggie, 52, who was just yards away from her son, was then shot five times with an assault rifle at the kennels of the family's estate in Moselle, South Carolina.

Palmbach explained that 'the explosive release of the gas trapped in [Paul's] cranium' would have forced blood, tissue, brain matter, fragments of skull and shot pellets back out through the entry wound, covering the shooter.

He said this would have at the very least blinded the killer and possibly even caused injury, making the prosecution claim that Murdaugh recovered moments later to shoot Maggie with a different weapon implausible.

Murdaugh hunches over and cries as the court hears graphic evidence of how Maggie and Paul were brutally murdered on Monday

Timothy Palmbach, a crime scene expert hired by the defense, told jurors that the 22-year-old suffered a 'contact wound' to the back of the head, meaning the muzzle of the 12-gauge shotgun was touching him

Paul, Maggie and Buster Murdaugh on a family holiday. Buster was staying with his girlfriend outside Charlotte at the time of the murders

'I think minimally that shooter is getting covered with this material and getting the shockwave of that and more than likely getting hit with at least something that is causing injury, a bone fragment or pellet fragment,' Palmbach said.

'Therefore, I think the shooter is, at least for some brief period of time, kind of out of it. It's not as if they can instantly suffer that, run to where the rifle is, pick that up and within any reasonable time period engage in an effective assault, shoot straight and make hits.'

He added: 'I believe the individual who shot first, probably with blood in his eyes and maybe even injured, would have taken some degree of time to recover.'

Palmbach said that had there been only one shooter, this would have given Maggie time to run. But she was found just a few yards away from her son.

The expert said there was also no logical argument for one killer using two firearms.

'Why would one shooter bring two long weapons to the event?' Palmbach questioned. 'You can't handle and shoot two of them. So you've either got to put one down, use one, and then swap out the other one.'

In addition, he stated that the .300 Blackout would more than likely have come with a high capacity magazine of upwards of 20 bullets, making two firearms unnecessary for one shooter.

The State alleges Murdaugh first blasted Paul twice in the feed room of the kennels with 12-gauge buckshot before turning the Blackout rifle on his wife, shooting her five times, on the night of June 7, 2021.

The prosecution dispute Palmbach's claim that Paul was shot in the back of the head and instead claim he was facing the shooter.

When cops arrived around 10pm, about an hour after Maggie and Paul were killed, Murdaugh was clean from head to toe in a white t-shirt, shorts and sneakers.

Murdaugh claims he went to visit his mother in Almeda, around 15 minutes away, and when he got back his wife and son were dead.

The State suggests at some point that evening he changed clothes. Murdaugh appeared in a video earlier that night taken by Paul wearing long pants, a dress shirt and loafers.

Maggie's body was found a few yards to the right of a doghouse, while Paul's was by the doorway at the end of the kennels

Maggie's blood-soaked body lies under a sheet at the crime scene on the night of June 7, 2021. She was shot five times with an assault rifle, while Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun a few yards away at the kennels on the estate

Paul's body was found lying in the doorway of the feed room at the end of the row of dog cages at the kennels

MURDER SCENE: Paul's body lies outside the storage room, while Maggie lies just outside the kennels by the doghouse

Earlier, Murdaugh's defense attorney Dick Harpootlian asked the judge to allow jurors to visit the kennels to give them a better 'spatial' understanding of the murder scene.

But Harpootlian warned the judge that cops need to close the road and secure the gates beforehand to stop the jury being influenced by the 'carnival attitude' of trial enthusiasts trespassing on the property.

Harpootlian said Alex's brother John Marvin Murdaugh was forced to call the sheriff last weekend because 'literally dozens' of trespassers were taking selfies in the feed room at the kennels where Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun.

Judge Clifton Newman said that a visit to the estate could be arranged - overruling the prosecution objection. He assured Harpootlian the scene would be secured.

The request comes as the defense calls its final witnesses before resting their case later today.

The defense first called Dr Jonathan Eisenstat, a pathologist and the former chief medical examiner for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Harpootlian began by asking how much he had been paid, preempting the constant question from prosecutors to the defense experts.

He told told jurors he had already received $3,000 to review the evidence and would be paid another $5,500 for testifying today.

During his testimony he called one of Maggie's wounds 'beautiful' before quickly withdrawing the inappropriate remark and apologizing to the court.

Eisenstat said what he meant was that it was a 'textbook' bullet hole.

He disputed a number of the findings from the State's pathologist Dr Ellen Riemer, including the direction of shots.

Eisenstat agreed with Riemer on the direction of the first shot to Paul's chest but disagreed with her finding that he was shot in the front of the head.

Murdaugh arrives surrounded by sheriffs at the courthouse Monday

Buster Murdaugh, center, arrives with his girlfriend Brooklynn White, Alex's sister Lynn (left) and brother John Marvin (right)

Buster, Paul, Maggie and Alex Murdaugh on a family vacation in Lake Keowee in May 2021 - a month before the killings

The pathologist said the shotgun would have been pressed directly against the top of the back of Paul's head.

Murdaugh wept during the testimony and a piece of cardboard was placed over the TV screen in front of him so he did not have to see any graphic images.

Regarding Maggie's five gunshot wounds, Eisenstat said he agreed with Riemer on the directions of the rounds that hit her torso, wrist and the back of her head.

But he believed that the first fatal shot, which Riemer said passed through her left breast and into her brain, was actually fired from the opposite direction.

He said he believes Maggie was leaning over on all fours towards the shooter, whereas Riemer said the killer would have been standing behind her.

Murdaugh took the witness stand last Thursday in the latest dramatic turn in the saga to admit he lied to cops about his alibi the night his wife and son were murdered.

But the disgraced legal scion said he was telling the truth when he claimed vigilantes killed Maggie and Paul.

Prosecutors have called 61 witnesses, compared to 11 for the defense. Murdaugh's lawyers said they planned to question three additional witnesses before resting their case in the early afternoon on Monday.

Murdaugh wept during the testimony from the pathologist and a piece of cardboard was placed on the TV screen in front of him so he did not have to see any graphic images

The defense first called Dr Jonathan Eisenstat, a pathologist and the former chief medical examiner for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation

Alex Murdaugh arriving the Colleton County Court, South Carolina, Monday

Dozens of people lined up outside the courthouse from the early hours of the morning

Rev Raymond Johnson from Mt Pisgah Baptist Church holding a sign that reads 'Justice Coming Soon' outside the court Monday

Alex Murdaugh arriving the Colleton County Court, South Carolina, on Monday

Prosecutor Creighton Waters said he then planned to call 'a couple' of reply witnesses intended to rebut defense evidence, indicating their testimony would not take a long time.

That will be followed by closing arguments and the judge instructing the jury, which could happen on Tuesday or Wednesday, Murdaugh defense attorney Dick Harpootlian said in court on Friday. The judge did not set a strict schedule.

Murdaugh on Friday floated his own theory for who killed his wife and son, testifying that someone was out for revenge after his younger son Paul's fatal boat accident.

At the time of Maggie and Paul's deaths, Murdaugh was being sued over his son's drunken smash which killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach.

But prosecutors argue it was the ruinous financial aspect of this case which helped drive the legal heir to murder.

As well as up to $30m he stood to lose in the boat case, Murdaugh was confronted on the day of the killings over $792,000 in 'missing' fees from his firm.

In the months after the murders it would be discovered that he had stolen more than $10m from clients and partners at his firm over the last decade.

Under cross examination, Murdaugh admitted that he routinely lied to the victims of horrific accident who he was supposed to represent, as well as his colleagues.

Prosecutor Waters sought to paint him as an unscrupulous liar who when faced with calamity chose to act violently in a bid to cover-up the litany of financial crimes.

Murdaugh admitted to lying to investigators in the aftermath of the murders by telling them he was not at the kennels on the night of the murders.

At the time of Paul's death, Murdaugh was facing a lawsuit over allowing his son to drive his boat under the influence of alcohol when 19-year-old Mallory (left and right) was killed in February 2019. Murdaugh told cops Paul and Maggie had been killed in revenge for the accident

Alex Murdaugh's boat the Sea Hunt after it was crashed by his son Paul in a fatal accident that killed 19-year-old Mallory Beach

Buster Murdaugh, Alex's sole surviving son, buries his face in his hand as he sits beside his girlfriend Brooklynn White at the courthouse last Friday

He changed his account after the jury saw cellphone video that contained audio of Murdaugh's voice that placed him at the scene minutes before investigators have said his wife and son were killed.

Waters asked: 'And you want this jury to believe a story manufactured to fit the evidence that you brought forth just yesterday after hearing this trial's whole testimony?'

Murdaugh replied: 'No sir, that's not correct.'

He said Paul had been threatened and attacked after the drunken boat wreck in February 2019.

Murdaugh told jurors: 'The social media response that came from that was vile. The things that were said about what they would do to PawPaw, they were so over the top.

'I believed then and I believe today that the wrong person saw and read that because I can tell you for a fact that the person or people who did what I saw on June 7, they hated Paul Murdaugh, and they had anger in their heart.'

Murdaugh, the scion of an influential South Carolina legal family, was indicted by a grand jury in July and pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon.

The case has drawn intense media coverage given the political influence of the Murdaugh family in South Carolina.

Murdaugh's sole surviving son Buster, 26, has attended court everyday and testified last week. He was staying with his girlfriend near Charlotte at the time of the killings.

The disbarred attorney's brothers John Marvin and Randy and sister Lynn have also attended the Colleton County courthouse in Walterboro most days.
Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin on Monday announced her bid for Michigan's open Senate seat, a key battleground contest that will help determine what party controls the upper chamber.

Slotkin, 46, is seen as a formidable competitor and the early front-runner for the nomination.

She has won three tough House races in her swing district, proving to be a prodigious fundraiser and campaigner.

She won her first election in 2018, when she flipped a traditionally Republican district to the Democrats, and was one of many women motivated to seek public office in the wake of President Donald Trump's election.

She also has a stellar resume: she is a former CIA analyst who joined the agency after the September 11th attacks, and served in intelligence and defense roles for two presidents - George W. Bush and Barack Obama. She also served three tours in Iraq as an intelligence officer.

Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin announced her bid for Michigan's open Senate seat - she is the early front runner for the nomination

However, her announcement for public office comes shortly after her announcement she is divorcing from her husband, Dave Moore.

'After careful consideration, we are saddened to announce that we are divorcing after 12 years of marriage,' Slotkin and Moore said in a joint statement earlier this month.

She had told Michigan reporters the divorce had nothing to do with her political career.

Her Senate announcement came in a nearly three-minute biographical ad, where Slotkin emphasizes that background and her Michigan roots. She also discussed her mother, who died from ovarian cancer and had no insurance, and her family history - her grandfather founded Ballpark Franks.

'I'm a third generation Michigander and my family has lived the American dream,' she says in the ad.

'We seem to be living crisis to crisis. But there are certain things that should be really simple, like living a middle class life in the state that invented the middle class, like making things in America so that we're in control of our own economic security, like protecting our children from the things that are truly harming them, and preserving our rights and our democracy. So that our kids can live their version of the American dream. This is why I'm running for the United States Senate.'

Slotkin made her interest in the race known shortly after longtime Senator Debbie Stabenow stunned Michigan Democrats last month with her decision not to seek re-election.

Many other prominent Democrats in the state - such as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (left) and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg (right), who has a residence in Michigan - have said they will not run for Senate

Many other prominent Democrats in the state - such as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who has a residence in Michigan - have said they will not run for Senate, clearing the way for Slotin to be the early frontrunner.

Republicans immediately pounced, painting Slotkin as a liberal elitist. Still the GOP has not yet fielded a strong candidate for the race.

Republican Rep. John James filed to run for re-election in his House seat. He waged two strong but failed Senate bids in the past - against Stabenow in 2018 and against Senator Gary Peters in 2020.

So far, Nikki Snyder, a Republican member of the state Board of Education, has filed to run and so has Michael Hoover, a small businessman and first-time candidate.

No Republican has won a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan since the GOP wave in 1994.

Slotkin has positioned herself as a moderate and champions Democratic principles like protecting abortion rights and a ban on assault weapons.

She has seen two mass mass shootings in her district: At Oxford High School in November 2021 and the second was two weeks ago at Michigan State University.

Former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney (right) campaigned for Elissa Slotkin (left) in the 2022 election

Former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney campaigned for her in the 2022 election.

Cheney appeared with Slotkin in her district shortly before that election, saying it was the first time she has ever campaigned for a Democrat but that 'it was not a hard decision at all.'

'If we want to ensure the survival of our republic, we have to walk away from politics as usual,' Cheney said. 'We have to stand up, every one of us, and say we're going to do what's right for this country. We're going to look beyond partisan politics.'
But a toddler present stood up, declared the value of honesty, and ratter her out

When cops arrived at a house to arrest her, no adults present would reveal her

Police arrested Tina Hicks, 45, for possession of meth and other charges

An 'honest' Kentucky toddler helped police arrest a fugitive by ratting out her hiding when nobody else would reveal it.

Tina Hicks, 45, was holed up in a house in Williamsburg on Friday evening while dodging multiple arrest warrants for drug and other charges, when officers from the Whitney County Sheriff's Department showed up looking for her.

As police investigated, a number of adults present in the home refused to say whether or not Hicks was present.

Police said the unnamed toddler then stood up, planted his hands on his hips, and declared 'It is good to be honest we shouldn't lie, she is inside the room next to the bathroom!'

Officers then checked the room the toddler had indicated, and found Hicks hiding within.

Tina Hicks, 45, was holed up in a house in Williamsburg, Kentucky. The toddler, who was just visiting the home, told cops where she was hiding

Hicks was hiding in the room next to the bathroom at the Kentucky home when police came knocking for her. The other adults at the home refused to say where she was

Whitney County Sheriff's Department praised the child for their honesty

The child did not live at the home - but was visiting with family, cops said.

And there were no signs that the toddler had been abused, instead police lauded the 'intelligent' child for being brave and honest when admitting where Hicks was hiding.

Hicks was cuffed, and charged with possession drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine, and four other outstanding warrants, the Whitney County Sheriff's Department said.

As commenters expressed their concern that the child could be in danger of retribution from the family, police clarified they had no reason to suspect there was any foul play.

'The child involved was visiting family. He was healthy, intelligent, and in no way appeared to be abused,' the department said.

'He was just at the wrong place wrong time. If deputies thought he was a potential victim of repercussions, it would have been dealt with.'

Police called the toddler 'very brave and honest,' and commended him for his actions.

Hicks was arrested following the bust
The meeting over Northern Ireland rules is taking place in Windsor this afternoon

Smiling Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen shook hands on new Brexit rules for Northern Ireland today - amid claims of a dramatic breakthrough.

The PM and EU commission president have finalised the package, the culmination of months of painstaking negotiations, after talks in Windsor.

Cabinet will now be briefed on the agreement, before the pair hold a press conference.

Downing Street has hailed 'significant and far reaching' concessions, and there are bombshell rumours this afternoon that the DUP is ready to shift position and accept the agreement.

The reports come despite the unionists having set red lines that looked very difficult to meet - including completely removing the role of the European Court of Justice. Having the DUP on board would pave the way for the restoration of powersharing at Stormont.

Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson played down the claims in the Irish News, tweeting: 'Well take our time to consider the detail and measure a deal against our seven tests.'

In other positive noises for Mr Sunak, Northern Ireland minister and self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker - who has been on 'resignation watch' over the past few days - said this afternoon that the government is on the verge of a 'fantastic' deal.

Mr Sunak could still face a rough ride from Tories when he makes a statement to the Commons this evening.

Allies of Mr Sunak are waiting nervously to see how Boris Johnson will react to the revised terms.

Meanwhile, the government is facing a furious backlash for dragging the King into the political pressure-cooker - as Charles will meet Ms von der Leyen separately this afternoon during her visit.

Rishi Sunak has thrashed out a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply

EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen took the Eurostar to London ahead of the meeting with the PM in Windsor

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker was in Downing Street again today, amid rumours that whips have put him on 'resignation watch'

The Windsor hotel being used as a venue for the talks this afternoon

Mr Sunak tweeted ahead of the meeting with Ms von der Leyen

Jeffrey Donaldson tried to cool claims the DUP is ready to back the PM's Brexit deal for NI

Former Cabinet minister Nadine Dorries dismissed the warm words from Mr Baker

Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

Sir Jeffrey said before the announcement: 'I'm neither positive nor negative. I think we need to take time to look at the deal, what's available, and how does that match our seven tests.'

What could Rishi's new Brexit deal for NI include? Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU. Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London. In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU. In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do. Advertisement

Tory Eurosceptics were largely keeping their powder dry this morning.

But Mr Baker moved to quash rumours he will quit after another bout of talks in No10.

He told broadcasters: 'I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.'

In a round of interviews this morning, Jacob Rees-Mogg did not rule out backing the plan, but suggested Mr Sunak will fail to win over the DUP.

The ex-Cabinet minister told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'There are two things we need to know: one is what the DUP thinks, because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement.

'So, if the DUP doesn't think that it meets test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

'I'm afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say 'we need to see the legal text', they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.'

Ms von der Leyen is also holding talks with King Charles during her visit to Windsor.

That has caused a wave of anger among DUP and Eurosceptic figures that the monarch is being dragged into the contentious politics of Brexit.

Buckingham Palace seemed to point the finger at ministers by saying the government had advised that the King should meet the visiting dignitary.

Ex-DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one.

'It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.'

Mr Rees-Mogg said was 'constitutionally unwise' for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen around the signing of the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: 'It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

'It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

The PM's official spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes 'fundamentally' the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

'He firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions,' the official said.

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today.'

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, the spokesman said: 'There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant occasions, this is no different.'

Downing Street has stressed that there are still substantive issues for the PM and Ms von der Leyen to address this afternoon, although they are thought to have tied up the main elements in talks by phone yesterday.

Irish deputy leader Micheal Martin has praised 'very significant and substantial progress' in protocol negotiations between the UK and EU.

'I think we'll leave it to both the President of the Commission and the British Prime Minister to announce whatever has to be announced this afternoon, but I think it's clear that very significant progress has been made,' he told RTE Radio.

'Over the last number of months, trust did build up between the two parties. Very substantial and serious negotiations have taken place in fairly significant detail, working up fairly substantive papers.'

Mr Martin said the customs data agreement struck earlier this year was a 'gamechanger' that 'facilitated a new fresh approach to that issue'.

The foreign affairs minister said the primary concerns that have been articulated by unionism in particular  include the bureaucratic barriers to goods being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the 'democratic deficit' on what input Northern Ireland would have on any future EU regulations, and state aid issues  had been heard.

'All of these issues, I think, have been responded to. I think the European Union has listened,' he said.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson (pictured today) told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak chat as they go into the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel today

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan (left) and Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden (right) were in Downing Street for the Cabinet meeting this afternoon

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt was at the Cabinet discussion to sign off the deal today

Ms von der Leyen will also hold talks with King Charles - raising fears that the monarch is being dragged into politics

Former DUP leader Arlene Foster was scathing about the decision to tie in a meeting between Ms von der Leyen and the King

Northern ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris in Downing Street today

What is the Brexit row about and what has been the impact on Northern Ireland? The UK and the EU have been engaged in intense negotiations over the workings of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the original withdrawal agreement that allowed the UK to leave the EU. It was designed to ensure the free movement of goods across the Irish land border with Ulster after Brexit. Rather than being an internal EU line between two countries, with Brexit it became a border between the bloc and a third party country with different customs and trade rules. In any other cases it would be solved simply by creating a 'hard' border - physical checks on vehicles and people travelling between the two. But the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence in 1998, expressly prohibits a return to such checkpoints on the island of Ireland. To get around this the protocol instead created economic barriers on trade being shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. It has proven to be deeply unpopular with unionists, who claim it has weakened Northern Ireland's place within the UK. Last year the DUP collapsed the powersharing institutions at Stormont in protest at the arrangements. It came as the party was replaced as the largest in the powersharing government by Sinn Fein for the first time. And the DUP is refusing to back a deal and restart powersharing unless their concerns are realised. They have set seven tests that it must pass to be approved. Advertisement

Mr Sunak has said the deal 'will show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job', adding: 'This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

'It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.'

The package is expected to include a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply in the province.

The PM held private talks in No 10 with Mr Baker yesterday in a sign of concern about resignations, while a survey by the grass-roots Conservative Home website found Tory activists oppose the idea of Mr Sunak's plan by 41 per cent to 36.

Former Brexit minister Lord Frost has urged the PM to revive the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, saying it was vital to be 'really tough' with Brussels.

The European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs has said it will establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to examine whether the new deal meets their sovereignty tests.

Meanwhile, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said it was a 'red line' for his party that 'there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK'.

Cabinet ministers, who will be formally briefed on the plans this afternoon, were last night ringing round Conservative MPs to shore up support.

Mr Sunak is expected to unveil the details in a statement to Parliament this afternoon.

However, there has been concern that MPs have not yet been guaranteed a vote on the deal.

Some are concerned that they have been left in the dark during talks.

One MP claimed Downing Street had kept them out of the loop to 'set everything up' and present the deal as 'a fait accompli'.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

No10 has been warned that rebels will force an indicative vote whether they want one or not.

The PM will tell MPs that his deal will secure Northern Ireland's place in the Union and protect the future of the Good Friday Agreement.

It is expected to lead to the scrapping of a barrage of EU checks on goods sent to the province from the rest of the UK, which have caused major problems for businesses and families, and led to unionist fears that Northern Ireland could be forced out of the UK.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said Mr Sunak was 'on the cusp' of a deal that would result in the 'substantial scaling back' of the role of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland.

Mr Raab said the deal would mark a 'paradigm shift' in relations and 'would be very good news for the communities of Northern Ireland and I think for the Good Friday Agreement as well'.

Ministers are optimistic that they can win over most Eurosceptic Tory MPs with a deal which Mr Raab said would 'properly and fully get Brexit done' and open the door to warmer relations with the EU.

But senior figures in the DUP warned that they were not yet convinced the deal would deliver enough to persuade them to re-enter power-sharing in Northern Ireland, a key objective of the PM.

And some Tory Eurosceptics said they would struggle to support a deal that was not supported by the DUP and which left the EU with a toehold in the UK.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak yesterday said he was 'giving it everything we've got' to get a deal.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, the PM said his new agreement was not a threat to Brexit but about 'making sure Brexit works in every part of the UK'.

Last night, neither No 10 nor Buckingham Palace would comment on whether the King would meet Mrs von der Leyen today.

Details of a planned meeting on Saturday, which was cancelled for 'operational reasons', raised concerns that No 10 was hoping to give the deal the impression of royal approval to head off opposition.

The Mail on Sunday revealed yesterday that the King's first overseas trip will be to Berlin and Paris, in a break from the tradition of using the inaugural visit to travel to a Commonwealth country.

Jacob Rees-Mogg said it would be 'wrong if Downing Street has applied pressure on the King' over a highly political issue. And Mr Wilson warned No 10 against a 'cynical use' of the King's position.

ERG chairman Mark Francois said the concessions did not appear to go far enough, and he would accept a deal only if 'EU law is expunged from Northern Ireland'. 'Less of a role is not enough.

'Just putting a couple of intermediate phases in but in a situation where you still end up with the European Court of Justice is effectively sophistry. We're not stupid.'

DUP MP Ian Paisley said: 'If the PM's plan involves keeping any part of the protocol, the DUP will not be going back into power-sharing.
An abusive wife and prison boss who beat her husband every day while calling him 'a p**sy' and made him clear up her own faeces during a horrific two-decade campaign of terror grinned in the dock as she was jailed for four years.

Mother-of-three Sheree Spencer, 45, was sentenced at Hull Crown Court for making her husband Richard's life a living hell with daily beatings and verbal attacks that left him cowering on the floor in the foetal position.

On one occasion she defecated on the floor and forced him to clean it up, and on another she beat him with a wine bottle so hard it permanently disfigured his ear. The assaults included kicking, punching, hitting, biting and spitting at him. She also damaged his laptops, phones and clothes.

Jailing Spencer for four years, Judge Kate Rayfield told her that the abuse of Richard Spencer was 'the worst case of controlling and coercive behaviour I have seen'.

As well as a prison term she was given an indefinite restraining order against her victim, but still grinned as she left the dock to be taken down to the cells.

She worked at the highest levels for HM Prison and Probation Service and bragged to friends that she had the ear of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. It was described as 'a great irony' that Spencer had done so much work aimed at investigating the effect of custodial sentences on the family.

Sheree Spencer, 45, was jailed for four years for making her husband Richard's life a living hell with daily beatings and verbal attacks that left him cowering on the floor in the foetal position

Richard Spencer, pictured, secretly recorded video and audio of his wife's attacks on him for years. When police became involved he handed over 43 images of his bruised face and scratches that he would need to cover with make-up before going outside

In furious wine-fuelled tirades she would call him 'dumb-dumb' and caused bruises and scratches that he would need to cover with make-up before going outside.

For years he secretly recorded video and audio of his wife's attacks on him and when police became involved he handed over 43 images of his bruised face, taken on different dates following savage assaults he had suffered.

Mr Spencer would email them to himself and delete them from his phone so his wife didn't realise he was recording her violent assaults.

Hull Crown Court heard that Spencer was a mother of three young children and that many of the attacks on her husband had occurred in the family home.

Spencer, of upmarket Bubwith, East Yorkshire, was a project manager in the department's directorate of strategy and performance.

A former friend said: 'She would brag about being only two down from the Prime Minister in her field and had meetings with Boris Johnson, who she spoke of as though he were a friend.

'She was bragging about her high-flying career while subjecting her poor husband, a lovely man, to daily abuse, degradation and humiliation.'

Spencer worked at the highest levels for HM Prison and Probation Service and bragged to friends that she had the ear of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Her reign of domestic terror finally ended in June 2021 when the police were called to their family home by a concerned welfare worker

Within months of becoming a couple in 2000, Richard Spencer endured her violent rages, which happened whether she was drunk or sober.

Mr Spencer told the court that although he was bigger and physically stronger than his petit wife, he did not fight back when she began to attack him.

He said he became almost immune to the physical abuse she meted out, even though she would cause him immense pain by sinking her teeth into him.

But he said the mental scars left by 16 years of her hate-filled attacks were what would leave the most lasting effect.

Spencer's reign of domestic terror finally ended in June 2021 when the police were called to their family home by a concerned welfare worker.

Her arrest that day on suspicion of assaulting her husband opened a door into the hell he had kept private for his entire married life.

He stood before the court today and at one point struggled to choke back tears as he described his nightmare marriage in a personal statement.

Mr Spencer said: 'From September 2000 to June 2021 Sheree subjected me to hundreds of physically, mentally, and emotionally abusive episodes perpetrated in a pattern of behaviour going back over 20 years, almost half my life.

Spencer's arrest on suspicion of assaulting her husband opened a door into the hell he had kept private for his entire married life

Hull Crown Court (pictured) heard that Spencer was a mother of three young children, and that many of the attacks on her husband had occurred in the family home

'I have become resigned to the fact that I will never fully recover from her abuse and that it will have a permanent damaging impact on mine and my family's life.

'Sheree's abuse towards me evolved and escalated over time, she used repeated acts of physical assault, threats, verbal abuse, and humiliation to punish and exercise control over me.

'The abuse was hidden from the outside world, including friends and family. Sheree manipulated me into believing that I was a responsible and willing participant in the abuse. She remorselessly proclaimed that I deserved to be punished, and that it was a justifiable consequence of me disappointing her in some way.

'Little by little, I lost my independence and willpower and just accepted that was how my life was going to be. I complied with Sheree's demands, and she controlled most aspects of my everyday life, including things like what activities I could participate in and when, which room I could sleep in, and even which toilet I could use.

'Gradually I became isolated from family and friends and was left deep in debt causing me to feel trapped.'

Mr Spencer said that restraining his wife was his only hope of avoiding serious injury - but the act of holding her still provoked her wrath.

He told the court: 'I became increasingly hardened to the physical attacks that were usually inflicted when Sheree had been drinking alcohol, such as the kicking and the punching, although some things were particularly painful such as biting and nipping.

'I'm physically bigger and stronger than Sheree so I could restrain her if the pain became unbearable; however, I could only hold her for so long, and when the time came to let go, she would be even angrier and the injuries she would inflict afterwards were always worse.

The court heard that Spencer beat him with the bottle all over his head and body, but caused a serious injury to his ear, which swelled dramatically

'After a while, I learnt to cover my face with my hands and curl up into a foetal position to try and avoid sustaining any visible facial injuries, so that I could still take the children to school and nursery.'

The worst of the assaults on him happened in April 2021 when his wife attacked him with an empty wine bottle.

The court heard that Spencer beat him with the bottle all over his head and body, but caused a serious injury to his ear, which swelled dramatically.

Mr Spencer said he needed hospital treatment, which his wife responded to by calling him a 'pussy.' She looked up YouTube videos on how to drain blood from the ear by puncturing it with a knife.

When he refused she told him that if he used his name at the hospital she would stop him coming back into the family home.

She ordered him to use her brother's name and he did as he was told as he was booked into A and E, fearing the reprisals that would happen if he did not.

Richard Pratt, KC, defending, said there was little he could say to mitigate against Spencer's appalling treatment of her husband and described her professional accomplishments as 'ironic'.

He said it was 'almost impossible to recognise' her professional person as the same woman who subjected her husband to the 'shocking and distressing' attacks.

Mr Pratt said: 'It is perhaps particularly ironic that one of the projects she had been working on has been dealing with the effects of custodial sentences on the family.

'That is an irony, but what is important and significant is that she continued to work and has an excellent work reputation and record.'

He said that Spencer had suffered bouts of depression and anxiety throughout her life which she had 'wrongly' sought to self-medicate by drinking alcohol.

The court was told that on some days she would drink as much as three bottles of wine.

Judge Rayfield described how she had sat through two hours of video and audio recordings of Spencer hurling hateful abuse at her husband.

She added: 'In one of these recordings it is clear you had defecated on the floor. Your husband can be heard scrubbing while you are heard to say to him: 'I made you do that, all I asked you to do was go to the shop.

'I watched as you spat in his face time and time again and called him 'bitch, tiny c*** and skank and insulted members of his family.

'You whispered in his face in the most sinister way, shouted demands and instructions at him - "Get the f***ing chicken on, get to the f***ing shop" and warning him "You will learn".

'By your actions you intended to humiliate or degrade Richard and you have caused him significant psychological harm.

'Richard Spencer was a vulnerable victim, isolated from his family and trapped financially.'

Spencer admitted coercive and controlling behaviour and three counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The charges could only cover a five-year period dating from the time the law on controlling and coercive behaviour was passed in late 2015.

But Judge Rayfield said she took account of Spencer's persistent behaviour towards her husband because it cast light on his vulnerability as her victim.
The mother of a University of Kentucky student who launched into a racist rant where she called a black student a 'n*****' more than 200 times is begging that she be forgiven because 'no one is perfect'.

Poll Should Sophia Rosing get a second chance to complete her education at University of Kentucky despite racist rant? Yes No Should Sophia Rosing get a second chance to complete her education at University of Kentucky despite racist rant? Yes 314 votes

No 1307 votes Now share your opinion





Racist Sophia Rosing, 22, has been charged with assaulting a police officer  a felony - and three counts of fourth-degree assault, disorderly conduct as well as public intoxication.

She was indicted on the charges by a Fayette County grand jury on Wednesday after launching into the assault against Kylah Spring on November 6.

But her mother, Jill Rosing, has since set up a petition to allow her daughter to complete her education  claiming that she needs 'support to pick up where she left off in all the madness and bloodthirst.'

Rosing's parents, who were pictured helping their daughter cover her face as they bailed her out last year, had remained silent on the allegations until now.

Racist Sophia Rosing, 22, has been charged with assaulting a police officer  a felony - and three counts of fourth-degree assault, disorderly conduct as well as public intoxication

Her mother, Jill Rosing (right) has set up a petition to allow her daughter to complete her education  claiming that she needs 'support to pick up where she left off in all the madness and bloodthirst'

Less than 100 people have signed the petition in support of Rosing, with her mother writing: 'No one is perfect, and no one is above perfection. We all make mistakes and no mistake should cost someone everything.

'Sophia is very remorseful for what she has done. She cannot take back or erase any mistakes made in the past but she can learn from them and ensure that she doesn't make the same mistakes again in the future.

'There is still hope in resuming the track for everything she has accomplished with her education and brand partnerships.

'She needs support to pick up where she has left off in all this madness and bloodthirst. What is one word compared to someone's entire future?

'She needs as many signatures as possible to show the board how important it is that she finishes her education at the University of Kentucky, even if it is at a delayed pace.

'Let's help secure this young aspiring business leader's future. The support does more than you know, thank you so much.'

President of the University of Kentucky Eli Capilouto confirmed that Rosing was suspended on an 'interim basis' as they continued their investigation.

They also said that she is no longer a student, is not eligible to re-enroll as a student and is permanently banned from the campus.

Rosing's victim, Kylah Spring has hit back at the plea for support, branding it as 'embarrassing' especially 'during Black History Month'

She said: 'Put that petition back in the drafts and own up and let your daughter face consequences for her actions. If you can't do the time don't commit the crime'

But Rosing's victim, Kylah Spring has hit back at the plea for support, branding it as 'embarrassing' especially 'during Black History Month'.

She added: 'Put that petition back in the drafts and own up and let your daughter face consequences for her actions. If you can't do the time don't commit the crime.

'She definitely said a racial slur. And she knew what she meant and she said what she said. Don't get mad because y'all are starting to get corrected and straighten out.

'For once the justice system is working in the favor of people that look like me, and you mad she got caught not that she did it.'

Rosing is facing a maximum prison sentence of 10 years for assaulting a cop, while the three fourth-degree assault charges each carry a maximum 12 months behind bars.

She pleaded not guilty at an initial hearing with her attorney Fred Peter in November last year.

Rosing pleaded not guilty at an initial hearing with her attorney Fred Peter in November last year

She was arrested in the early hours of November 6 after she stumbled into the dorms on campus in Lexington, Kentucky, before she launched herself Spring who was working the front desk

DailyMail.com revealed that she grew up in a modest three-bedroom and two-bathroom family property in Fort Mitchell with her parents and siblings after she bragged that she was 'rich'

The blond former business and marketing major stumbled into the dorms on campus in Lexington, Kentucky, before she launched herself Spring who was working the front desk.

Rosing dropped out of school after the footage of her 10-minute-long tirade was posted online  showing her singing the racist slur as she was carted off by cops.

The former Kentucky student was released on $10,000 bail and collected by her parents trying to hide her face by holding paper in front of herself.

During her rampage, Rosing told University of Kentucky police officers that she gets 'special treatment' because she has 'lots of money'.

Court documents revealed she 'kicked and bit' officers as they tried to place her under arrest.

University Police were finally able to take Rosing into custody just before 4am on following the now-viral incident.

She was held at the Fayette County Detention Center where she refused to identify herself to officers upon her arrival in the early hours so was processed as a Jane Doe.

In the full 10-minute video of Rosing's assault, which shows her use the n-word 200 times, she is told that she has ruined her life to which she brazenly replies 'no I didn't' before singing the n-word over and over before police arrived to arrest her.

Assaulting a cop is a felony which carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years, while the three fourth-degree assault charges each carry a maximum 12 months behind bars

University Police were finally able to take Rosing into custody just before 4am on following the now-viral incident

A former classmate of racist University of Kentucky student Sophia Rosing (pictured), who attended Beechwood with her, has branded her a 'bully' who has had her 'true personality' exposed by her own vile rant

Even after the University of Kentucky officer has her in handcuffs, she can still be heard singing the word as she is dragged away.

Rosing can also be heard telling Spring to 'do her chores' as well as calling her an 'ugly n***** b****' while horrified students look on and some try to intervene.

It comes after DailyMail.com revealed that she allegedly doxxed a 15-year-old girl while they were at high school together, publicly posting that she would 'send nudes' and falsely claimed she had an abortion.

Rosing's lawyer also said that she would be going to rehab to address her 'issues' as well as undergoing 'racial sensitivity training'.

Spring made an impassioned speech at an anti-racism march the day after the incident.

The desk clerk, a freshman at the university, became emotional as she addressed the dozens of people who attended the march in her honor. She told the crowd: 'I was physically, verbally and racially assaulted by Jane Doe, aka Sophia Rosing.

Rosing was last seen dashing into her parents car following her arrest in relation to the racial attacks

Rosing, pictured in high school, allegedly started rumors about the pupil 'getting pregnant and getting an abortion' in high school, which was not true

Since the attack, Rosing herself has been fired by fashion brand Dillard's for her outburst

'This is a recurring issue in and across the American school system no matter what age.

'I am deeply saddened by the events that took place, but I am most grateful for justice that is to come.

'To Miss Rosing. You will not break my spirit and you will be held accountable for your actions. I only pray that you open your heart to love and try to experience life differently and more positively.

As Michelle Obama once said, when they go low, we go high. I will continue to address this situation with grace and humility.'

A year before the vile racist incident, Rosing had bragged to fellow students: 'I'm rich as f*** and you're obviously not'.

But DailyMail.com can reveal that she grew up in a modest three-bedroom and two-bathroom family property in Fort Mitchell with her parents and siblings.

Her father, Paul Donald Rosing, works as an Technology Executive for Messer Construction Co, but relatives of Rosing have not yet responded to request for comment.

Since the attack, Rosing herself has been fired by fashion brand Dillard's for her outburst.

She was part of the Campus Collective Program, with a Dillard's spokesperson saying: 'Dillard's does not condone this behavior. Her relationship with Dillard's has been terminated immediately.'
A commercial for the last Blockbuster store in the world which joked it would remain open 'til the bitter end' has boosted its sales by 200 percent.

The ad, which is set in post-apocalyptic Oregon, shows a cockroach traveling through a dystopian landscape before arriving at the video rental store, the only business to have survived.

Since the family-run store in Bend, Oregon, couldn't afford a $7million Super bowl commercial earlier this month, they decided to record something on a budget and release it on social media.

The vintage-feeling commercial nonetheless resonated with nostalgic Americans who have been supporting the business by buying merchandise related to the commercial, including t-shirts featuring the cockroach, named Steve, and physical VHS tapes containing the 30-second ad.

A post-apocalyptic-themed commercial for the last Blockbuster in the world, in Bend, Oregon, has caused its sale to double

The store's manager Sandi Harding (pictured) said she wanted to show what a small business can achieve on a small budget

The store's manager Sandi Harding appeared on NewsNation to discuss the success of the ad, titled 'Blockbuster: Until the Bitter End' and the recent boost in sales. She also said she wanted to show what small businesses can achieve on smaller budgets.

'We didn't have that $7million budget but wanted to do something fun' she said. 'It was such a great experience to film it, to put it out on social media and to see everyone appreciate our hard work.'

The post-Armageddon theme, she said, was a nod to the store's history and its refusal to close as the era of online streaming wreaked havoc on video and DVD rental businesses.

'It was just poking fun at the fact that we've survived everything else, we're going to survive the apocalypse as well,' she told NewsNation.

The commercial also drummed up sales on its online store, which sells various Blockbuster merch and now an entire line dedicated to the viral cockroach affectionately named Steve.

It also caused a spike in visitors to the physical store. 'President's weekend was the weekend after Super Bowl so we actually had a lot of people come in and check out the commercial, check out the new merchandise that goes along with the commercial,' said Harding.

'We were up 200 percent in online sales, which was great. My mom and dad helped out, my mom's out of retirement to help me with the online orders,' she added.

Harding has said in the past that the store she manages has remained unchanged since the hey day of Blockbuster

The store is selling merchandise related to the commercial and cockroach via its online store

Harding promoted the trailer on social media ahead of its release over Super Bowl weekend and even sold VHS copies of it in the store

Harding has said in the past that the store she manages has remained unchanged since the heyday of Blockbuster. She started working in the store in 2004, when the chain had around 9,000 stores and 60,000 employees, according to Reuters.

Blockbuster, whose first store opened in Dallas in 1985, was once a booming business.

In fact, in in the early 2000s, Reed Hastings, who founded eventually founded Netflix, travelled to the company's headquarters in Texas to pitch a startup that would rent DVDs to customers and deliver them in the post. Blockbuster declined.

In 2007 when Netflix launched, Blockbuster had a revenue of $5billion, but as the financial crisis loomed and stores like Target and Walmart started selling increasingly cheap DVDs, the business started to suffer.

By the beginning of 2009 it was nearly $780million in debt and a year later it filed for bankruptcy. With that it began closing stores and turning them into franchisees.

Sandberg, who manages the final store, located on a strip mall in Bend, refused to shut shop and has been clinging on since.

By 2017 there were just 10 stores left in the US. While Blockbusters across the globe have closed their doors, the Bend location seems to be doing OK business-wise.

In 2019, after a Blockbuster closure in Perth, Australia, her store went from being the last in America to the last in the world.
A cheating husband strangled his wife after she found his 'dirty' text messages to other women when he passed out following a binge on Coors Light and Jack Daniel's.

Serial cheat Jonathan Neale, 40, fell asleep by his front door after a day of drinking with another woman.

Wife Claire managed to put him to bed - after taking a picture of him on the floor - but when she looked at his phone she found dozens of messages to other women.

Neale had enjoyed previous affairs and after checking his phone his suspicious wife told him: 'We are done'.

Claire said: 'I got his wet clothes off him put him to bed and had a look through his phone where I discovered he hasn't stopped messaging women dirty texts, videos telling women he loves them and if he wasn't in a relationship with me he'd be with her.'

Neale, 40, fell asleep by his front door after a day of drinking with another woman

Serial cheat Jonathan Neale pictured with his wife Claire on their wedding day

Claire's injuries are pictured - she feared for her life during the attack by her husband

A court heard Neale then attacked his wife, strangling her with his hands around her neck leaving her 'fearing for her life.'

Prosecutor Anna Parry said Neale had downed Coors Light beer and Jack Daniel's whiskey throughout the day while watching the Wales v Ireland Six Nations.

Anna Parry, prosecuting, said: 'The defendant had been watching the rugby with his friends.

'He asked the victim to pick him up and she went to collect him. The defendant was found quite intoxicated and he had fallen asleep at a bus station.

'When they were home, the complainant helped undress him and put him to bed and he went to sleep.

'The victim checked his mobile phone as a result of previous affairs on his part.'

Newport Magistrates Court heard she woke Neale and told him 'we are done' and asked him to leave.

Neale had enjoyed previous affairs and after checking his phone his suspicious wife told him: 'We are done' - pictured are photos of Claire's injuries

A court heard Neale attacked his wife strangling her with his hands around her neck

Jonathan Neale with his wife Claire - Neale pleaded guilty to intentionally strangling his wife

'The defendant fled the house and was later arrested by the police,' a court heard

Neale was handed a 12 month suspended sentence and given a two-year restraining order not to contact his wife

'He put his two hands to her throat area and this made her feel petrified,' she said.

'She didn't think he was going to let go but the complainant managed to bite his finger and he loosened his grip.

'The defendant fled the house and was later arrested by the police.'

Neale, of Bettws, Newport, pleaded guilty to intentionally strangling his wife.

Lynda Rhead, defending, said: 'He's not proud of himself. The defendant has shown his remorse from the outset.

'It was clearly a horrible incident that the victim should not have gone through. This is somebody who is holding his head in shame.'

Neale was handed a 12 month suspended sentence and given a two-year restraining order not to contact his wife.
Her Twitter plea for help has since gone viral, having been seen 5.7million times

She said soaring energy bills and a quiet winter had left it on the brink of closure

Celebrities have come to the aid of a struggling independent bookshop owner after she placed a desperate plea on social media to help her pay her bills.

Sapphire Bates, who runs Book Bodega in Ramsgate, Kent, had been crippled financially by soaring energy bills after a 'quiet' winter.

Taking to Twitter on Saturday, the 29-year-old retailer said she desperately needed customers to help her pay her 800 bill by Tuesday or face closure.

Posting a picture of her empty store, Ms Bates tweeted: 'Winter is killing us, it's so quiet and we need to make 800 by Tuesday to pay our bills. This is my current view = no customers. Please shop with us and help us stay open!'

Her tweet went viral in a matter of hours and has been viewed more than 5.7million times - with big-named supporters including comedian Sue Perkins.

Tweeting to her army of 1.2million follows, the 53-year-old celebrity said: 'If you were thinking of buying a book, then why not buy from this beautiful place; either in person or online xx.'

From empty to bustling: Sapphire Bates tweeted a picture of her empty shop Book Bodega (left) on Saturday, saying she was going to struggle to pay her 800 energy bill. By Sunday, the store in in Ramsgate, Kent, was packed with customers (right) after the post went viral online

Sapphire Bates (right) outside her bookshop, which was full of customers after a post she tweeted was viewed almost six million times

Anthony Horowitz, who wrote the popular Alex Rider series, has also lent his support, alongside crime writer Ian Rankin, author Jill Mansell and musician Tim Burgess.

And by Sunday the store was packed with customers and taking online orders from across the world, with Ms Bates later tweeting: 'Thank you #Booktwitter for all your love and support.'

Sapphire, who runs the business with her partner Nicholas Turner, says it has been 'a little bit crazy' since the post went viral.

'The shop has been really busy today with locals, but also people from places like Canterbury, Whitstable and places further afield than we would usually have in,' she said.

'People have been buying online too. We've had people ordering from Italy, the US, Germany, Sweden - all over the place.

'Our online shop doesn't facilitate international orders so I've arranged to send books out to some people myself via Royal Mail.

'Other people have chosen to buy books via pay-it-forward and I will pass them on to charities across Ramsgate.'

Sapphire added: 'Winter's been tough - I know if we can make it through the next month or two then we will make it through our first year of trading successfully.

Comedian Sue Perkins was among the celebrities showing their support of the independent retailer by retweeting Sapphire's plea for help on Twitter

Sapphire said she was 'overwhelmed' by the support she received after her plea on social media went viral.

Ms Bates, who runs the business with her partner Nicholas Turner, said it had been very tough winter, with fewer customers coming through the door and soaring energy bills

Sapphire (pictured) added that since her tweet had gone viral, things had gone 'a little bit crazy', with authors now looking to stage book launches at her shop in Ramsgate

'I always knew it would be hard to run a bookshop - especially in a seaside town - but boy it's still been a shock to the system.'

Ms Bates added that some writers had also offered to hold book-signing events or talks at her her shop to help boost her profile.

Speaking of the reception to her plea on Twitter, the 29-year-old said: 'I feel slightly overwhelmed by the response my tweet received.

'When I sent it I didn't think anything would come of it, so to suddenly have thousands respond felt quite surreal.

'The likes of Anthony Horowitz, Sue Perkins, Jill Mansell, Adam Kay, and Deborah Frances-White have all got in touch to show their support - the list goes on.

'Some have retweeted my original tweet on their platforms, and others have offered to even stop by and use my shop as a venue for a book-signing.

'Nothing is set in stone yet, but just to feel the love people have shown is really touching.'




President Yoon Suk Yeol instructed the education ministry Monday to promptly report measures to eradicate school violence, his office said, following revelations that a once-government appointee's son was punished for school bullying.







Yoon gave the instruction during a weekly meeting with his senior aides, saying the ministry should work together with local education offices and other related agencies to report to him on the measures, according to senior presidential secretary for press affairs Kim Eun-hye.







Yoon canceled his appointment of Chung Sun-sin, a prosecutor-turned-lawyer, as chief of the police's National Office of Investigation on Saturday following revelations that Chung's son had been punished for school bullying and Chung had taken the case to court.







The appointment was canceled only a day after it was made.







Yoon regards school violence "very seriously," and considers it a violation of the right to freely and fairly receive education, his spokesperson Lee Do-woon told reporters Sunday. (Yonhap)


His wife, Gisele and kids went to Canada for 'an impromptu holiday'

Sen. John Fetterman is continuing treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center as his wife, Gisele Baretto Fetterman, took their three children on a road trip to Canada for an impromptu vacation.

'We don't have a lot to update folks with since there's no real news to report except that John is doing well, working with the wonderful doctors, and remains on a path to recovery,' Fetterman spokesman Joe Calvello said in a statement on Monday.

In early February, the Pennsylvania senator was treated at George Washington University Hospital in Washington, D.C., for lightheadedness. Doctors ruled out yet another stroke at the time - the first one was in May 2022 - and he was discharged.

After returning to Congress, Brian P. Monahan, the attending physician of Congress, examined Fetterman and encouraged him to seek inpatient treatment for depression that became 'severe in recent weeks' according to Adam Jentleson, Fetterman's chief of staff.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., continues treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed Hospital after checking himself in on February 16, 2023.

He voluntarily admitted himself to Walter Reed Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland on February 16.

'We understand the intense interest in John's status and especially appreciate the flood of well-wishes,' Calvello said. 'However, as we have said, this will be a weeks-long process and while we will be sure to keep folks updated as it progresses, this is all there is to give by way of an update.'

On Friday, the senator's wife posted on social media that she drove to Niagra Falls via Buffalo, New York with their children, Karl, Grace, and August because of the media presence outside their Braddock home, following news of her husband's treatment.

'I am not really sure how to navigate this journey but am figuring it out slowly. 1 week ago today when the news dropped, the kids were off from school and media trucks circled our home,' she tweeted.

'I did the first thing I could think of  pack them in the car and drive,' she wrote after it was reported her husband could spend weeks in the hospital while doctors work on treatment and medication.

'We talked about lots of hard things and how we will all have to face hard things. About the need to be gentle  with all and with ourselves,' Gisele Fetterman continued.

She also posted a video where she calmly discussed how their son August got stuck zip lining  recording the post while a 'rescue' was underway.

'We did some scary things but we did them together. We ziplined over Niagara Falls and August got stuck. We talked about flexibility and the need to always have an open heart and an open mind,' she added.

Senator John Fetterman poses for his official picture with his wife, Gisele, and his three children, after being sworn into office by Vice President Kama Harris (second from the right)

'I did the first thing I could think of': Gisele Fetterman took the children she shares with Sen. John Fetterman on a road trip to Canada through Upstate New York while her husband, Sen. John Fetterman, is receiving treatment for depression

Her posts got thousands of views. She said the children were on a break from school

She pointed the finger at media trucks which surrounded her home

Fetterman is receiving treatment for depression just weeks after being sworn into office. He continues to recover from the effects of a stroke in May 2022.

High wire act: Gisele posted video of what she said was her son August getting stuck on a zip line

The 6-foot 8-inch tall, heavily tattooed former Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania was elected in November after suffering a stroke in May.

During his recovery, he has struggled with sensory processing issues, and relies on simultaneous translation computer software in media interviews and to do his Senate duties.

A senior aide told NBC that it has been challenging to differentiate between the senator's stroke recovery and the depression, with the staffer saying it's sometimes unclear if he's 'not hearing you, or is he sort of crippled by his depression and social anxiety.'

CNN reported Friday that Fetterman's symptoms included weight loss and lack of appetite, which led to his spell in the George Washington University Hospital last week, complaining of lightheadedness.

President Joe Biden put out a message of support last week. 'John, Gisele  Jill and I are thinking about your family today. Millions of people struggle with depression every day, often in private. Getting the care you need is brave and important. We're grateful to you for leading by example,' Biden tweeted.

Republican Sen. Ted Cruz, whose family has had their own mental health struggles, said he and his wife, Heidi were 'lifting John up in prayer.'

'Mental illness is real & serious, and I hope that he gets the care he needs. Regardless of which side of the political aisle you're on, please respect his family's request for privacy,' Cruz asked.
Cold case detectives have used DNA analysis to finally identify the 'lady in the fridge' nearly 30 years after her dead body was discovered submerged in a canal with her hands tied and mouth gagged.

The woman has now been named as Amanda Lynn Schumann Deza - whose body was stuffed in a refrigerator at Whiskey Slough, a marina and boat storage located in Holt, a community in San Joaquin County.

A man looking for recyclable cans made the gruesome discovery in March 1995. He saw a refrigerator in the water pulled it out and saw a woman's body wrapped in a blanket and a tarp. Detectives believed that her dead corpse had been in the refrigerator, undiscovered, for about six months.

At the time, a medical examiner determined that the woman was killed by blunt force trauma.

Deza - a mother of three - had no identification on her when she disappeared and no missing persons reports were ever filed. The case went cold for decades until detectives used DNA analysis combined with traditional genealogy research making a critical break in the case.

Amanda Lynn Schumann Deza had been murdered and her body had been stuffed in a refrigerator at Whiskey Slough, a marina and boat storage located in Holt, a community in San Joaquin County. Her identification was revealed on Thursday at a news briefing after 27 years

The 30-year-old California woman was a mother of three young children at the time she disappeared. Cold case detectives said they have very little information about her life and her activities for several years before her murder

On Thursday, the San Joaquin County announced that the mysterious 'lady in the fridge' identify was revealed. Sheriff Patrick Withrow said: 'I'd just like to take this time right now to give her her name back, to give her her story back.'

Lt. Linda Jimenez, who heads the Sheriffs Office cold case unit and the Sheriffs detective division, said the victim had been living in the Napa, Oakley and Delta areas.

But they have very little information about her life and her activities for several years before her murder.

Jimenez also said that people were looking for Deza after she went missing but a missing person's report was never filed.

According to Sheriff Withrow, Deva appeared to be going through some challenging times and the victim's family was shocked by the news of her death.

The San Joaquin County Medical Examiner and the Sheriff's Office worked with Othram, a Texas-based company that specializes in forensic genealogy.

The company helped create a DNA profile on Amanda Lynn Schumann Deza - the information then aided detectives generate investigative leads. Part of those leads included connecting with the victim's mother and daughter who provided DNA samples, which were confirmed to be matches.

'Amanda is a daughter, she's a sister, she's a mother, she's a friend,' Jimenez said during the press briefing.

'And there's many of you out there who know and have information about her life, the activities she was involved with, the friendships that she had, as well as any intimate relationships.'

The area where 'the lady in the fridge' body was discovered

The image shown is some type of compartment that had been in an archive since April 1995

The man in the news clip from 1995 was the junk collector who made the gruesome discovery. He saw a refrigerator in the water and when he pulled it out saw a woman's body wrapped in tarp and a blanket

A detective shows some other pieces of evidence show including, a sock and a boot

The scene of the marina that is littered with loose tires and debris

The victim's boot is shown here

More earring fragments found at the scene, are shown

A blue tarp from the scene in 1995

District Attorney Ron Freitas, who was also present during Thursday's press conference said 'this case is far from being closed, and justice is far from being served.'

'I look forward to prosecuting (to) the fullest extent of the law the coward that committed this heinous act  and only then, when I'm able to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law, can true justice and true closure be given to her family,' he said.

Though Deza's identity is now known her killer(s) have never been caught. A reward of up to $10,000 is being offered by the Stockton CrimeStoppers.

The Sheriff's office is urging the public to contact them for any information at 209-468-5087; callers can remain anonymous or by email at coldcase@sjgov.org.

The San Joaquin County Sheriff Patrick Withrow announced the news at a Thursday news conference
The sister of Idaho murder victim Kaylee Goncalves gave birth to a baby girl early Friday morning.

Alivea Goncalves gave birth at 4:21am, and named her newborn Theodora MaddieKay Stevensen. Kaylee would have been an aunt had she not been killed.

The baby's middle name, 'MaddieKay,' is a touching tribute to both Kaylee and her best friend Maddie Mogen. Maddie was also murdered in the quadruple homicide last November at their home at the University of Idaho, Moscow.

Kaylee and Maddie had been best friends since the sixth grade.

The Goncalves family posted a picture of the healthy newborn, and said they were 'blessed' by her arrival.

Alivea Goncalves gave birth at 4:21am, and named the girl Theodora MaddieKay Stevensen

Alivea Goncalves Stevenson (left) with Kaylee Goncalves (center) with Madison Mogen (right)

'Theodora #MaddieKay Stevenson arrived at 4:21a.m. 6lbs 5.8oz 19 inches,' the family wrote in an announcement on Facebook. 'Alivea and Robbie are doing great!'

Before the arrest of suspect Bryan Kohberger, Alivea had vowed to continue searching for the killer of her 'baby sisters,' who both served as bridesmaids at her wedding.

'I promise to always make you proud, take the picture, and never stop fighting to find out the truth and make right whatever I can in this f****d up world,' she wrote.

'You guys aren't gone. You never could be. I'll find you always and everywhere. If you ever get tired of seeing the world, come rest in my heart. It's forever open to you guys. I'll keep you warm and keep you safe there,' she said.

Last month, Alivea told NewsNation her family was hoping to set up a foundation in the name of Kaylee and Maddie.

She also said 'the weight of the world was lifted off our shoulders' when her family heard of the arrest of Bryan Kohberger and read the damning evidence against him.

Alivea Goncalves holds her daughter, Theodora MaddieKay Stevensen, after giving birth

Kaylee Goncalves' father holds his newborn granddaughter, Theodora Maddie Kay

Lawyers are believed to be gearing up for the possibility of a death penalty trial for the 28-year-old criminal justice major - who remains the only suspect in the November 13 slayings of Goncalves, 21, Mogen, 21, and their roommates Xana Kernodle, 20 and her boyfriend Ethan Chapin, 20.

Prosecutors haven't yet indicated whether they intend to pursue the death penalty for Kohberger, although it seems likely they will, given the gravity of his alleged crimes.

And now, Republican state lawmaker Rep. Bruce Skaug has introduced a bill that would once again allow for execution by firing squad in the state, as well as lethal injection.

Skaug's bill states that the Idaho Department of Corrections must determine whether execution by lethal injection is an available method no later than five days after a death warrant is issued.

Theodora MaddieKay Stevensen being held by her family after her birth on Friday morning

Alivea Goncalves with Theodora after giving birth to her on Friday morning

If the method is not available, the IDOC may elect to use a firing squad.

The bill does not specify how many or what type of firearms should be used in the execution, only saying the director of the IDOC would determine the procedures used in the execution.

Skaug said he believed the option is more humane than lethal injection, with recent instances of the shot resulting in agonizing pain for doomed inmates.

And, he pointed out to the Idaho Capital Sun, other states like Utah have brought back the use of a firing squad in recent years due to their inability to get the lethal injection chemicals.

A public hearing on the bill will now be held in the Idaho House Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee, which Skaug chairs.

Death by firing squad was legal in Idaho from 1982 through 2009, when the Legislature removed it as an option. That left lethal injection as the only legal form of execution in the state.

But acquiring the chemicals used in lethal injection has become increasingly difficult.

Last year, the legislature passed a bill allowing any company or pharmacy that provided the chemicals used in lethal injection with anonymity in hopes that more companies and pharmacies would be willing to contract with the legislature to provide the necessary ingredients.

Still, in November, the Idaho Department of Corrections was forced to cancel the scheduled execution of Gerald Pizzuto Jr when it could not obtain the chemicals necessary to carry out the execution.
Homicide clearance rates have decreased to their lowest level from 71 per cent in 1980 to around 50 per cent in 2020, according to analyses of FBI data by the Marshall Project and Murder Accountability Project.

America is now at risk of becoming the first developed nation where the majority of murders go uncleared, according to Thomas Hargrove, founder of the Murder Accountability Project, which tracks unsolved homicides in the US.

Although US police have solved more murders than in any year since 1997, because of the increasing number of homicides, the clearance rate has dramatically declined to a little below 50 per cent.

Clearance rates are the metric used to determine how many homicides police solved according to FBI reports.

This comes after a substantial surge in homicides in some of America's biggest cities, including Kansas City when it saw 15 murders for every 100,000 people in 2022.

America is at risk of becoming the first developed nation where the majority of murders go uncleared as the national homicide clearance rates are at their lowest in four decades

Researchers found thst the top five homicide hotspots were Detroit, Michigan, St Louis, Missouri, New Orleans, Louisiana, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Denver, Colorado, was the best performing of the 50 big cities in the study.

To clear a case it requires at least one suspect to be arrested, charged with the offence, and turned over to a court for prosecution.

However, according to the FBI homicides can also be cleared by 'exceptional means' - this is when police believe they have enough evidence, but were unable to make an arrest.

Examples of such include the death of a suspect, another jurisdiction's refusal to extradite someone, or police identification of a suspect.

From 2019 to 2020, police across the United States solved 1,200 more murders, which is a 14 per cent increase.

However, in comparison to previous decades, murders have now risen twice as quickly and are at 30 per cent - leading to a drop in cleared crimes as only one in every two murders are solved.

Across the country, murders and manslaughters a were being cleared at the highest rates, at 50% and 69% respectively as other crimes, such as rape, robbery and assault, were solved at much lower rates.

Local law enforcement agencies reported only 14,715 homicides while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention so far have counted 25,988 murders, according to data collected by the Murder Accountability Project.

In comparison to previous decades, murders have now risen twice as quickly and are at 30 per cent - leading to a drop in cleared crimes as only one in every two murders are solved (stock image)

This is because the FBI has mandated that all crimes committed in 2021 and afterwards must be reported via the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) rather than the Summary Reporting System.

Philip Cook, a public policy researcher at the University of Chicago Urban Labs, who has been studying clearance rates since the 1970s offers the suggestion that a decline in clearance rates might not be a bad thing.

He told the Marshall Project: 'It also could be that the standards for making an arrest have gone up and some of the tricks they were using in 1965 are no longer available'.

Additionally, the change in clearance rates over the years can be pinned down to the fact that the nature of crimes police are being asked to solve has changed over the years.

Data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics demonstrates that killings are now less frequently committed by people the victim knew, with growing proportions of homicides being done by strangers.

Alternatively, often in minority communities where trust in the law is lower, officers struggle to get witnesses to talk to them, Peter Moskos, a professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice claims.

Melina Abdullah, co-director of the national community organizing group Black Lives Matter Grassroots, claimed that one of the reasons behind engaging with law enforcement is due to a fear of violent reprisals.

Abdullah suggested that police are often guilty of incorrectly criminalizing victims and treating them as suspects, specifically in Black communities.

CBS also noted a growing discrepancy in homicide clearance rates according to the race and ethnicity of the victim, with African American victims experiencing the lowest clearance rate.

Additionally, the Murder Accountability Project reported 100 per cent of the US's decline in homicide clearance was borne by black victims as clearance rates for white, Asian American and American Indian victims have held steady or even improved over time.

As a result of this cycle, police are viewed as inefficient in their work when they are not given essential leads.

'Declining homicide clearance rates are the result of inadequate allocation of resources -- detectives, forensic technicians, crime laboratory capacity, and adequate training of personnel,' said Hargrove.

However, although a case may be cleared, this does not always result in imprisonment.

A 2009 report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics states that almost one-third of people accused of murder were acquitted or had their charges dismissed in the nation's 70 largest counties.
A Twitter boss who was one of around 200 staffers laid off over the weekend has said she remains 'deeply proud' of her time at the firm - which included sleeping in the office while juggling strict deadlines set by Elon Musk.

Esther Crawford, who led Twitter's move to charge users for blue ticks, said her hard was was not 'a mistake' after Musk axed 10 percent of staff during the latest round of cuts since he took over in October.

The layoffs, announced on Saturday, bring Twitter's workforce down to under 2,000 - a sharp fall from the 7,500 employed when the billionaire first took over.

Crawford, who appeared to be a supporter of Musk's regime, said on Sunday night: 'The worst take you could have from watching me go all-in on Twitter 2.0 is that my optimism or hard work was a mistake. Those who jeer & mock are necessarily on the sidelines and not in the arena. I'm deeply proud of the team for building through so much noise & chaos.'

Saturday's cuts targeted data scientists, engineers and product managers like Crawford, who led the launch of paid subscription service Twitter Blue.

Esther Crawford was one of around 200 workers axed by Twitter over the weekend. She was a support of Musk's hard-working regime at Twitter and previously gained attention for sleeping in the office while working on strict deadlines set by the billionaire, who took over in October

Crawford stood by her 'hard work' after she was named among 200 Twitter workers who were axed

Product Manager Esther Crawford was seen sleeping on the office floor in November 2022

As details of the latest job cuts surfaced on Sunday, Musk tweeted: 'Hope you have a good Sunday. First day of the rest of your life.'

Crawford famously backed Musk's 'extremely hardcore' Twitter 2.0 culture when he first took over, and was pictured on the office floor in a sleeping bag with a sleeping mask in November 2022.

The layoffs impacted the largest number of people at the company since half the company was laid off in November last year, when employees learned they'd been let go after they were locked out of their emails and work computers.

The cuts this weekend were carried out in a similar fashion, when affected staff were logged out of their emails and laptops on Saturday night.

Several staff posted about the job cuts on Blind, an anonymous platform for tech workers.

'People receive email at 2am on Saturday and access cut immediately. This will go down as one of the most extreme layoffs in entire corporate history,' read a post on Blind.

The poster claimed layoffs hit the project management department the hardest and were spread across human relations, sales and marketing, engineering and finance.

Crawford, joined Twitter after founding a screen-sharing and video chat app called Squad, which Twitter acquired in 2020.

Haraldur Thorleifsson, who created the design studio Ueno, which the company bought in 2021, was also removed from his position at Twitter.

Martijn de Kuijper, a senior project manager, said he found out about lay off after being locked out of his email account.

The dismissal of much of the product team has led some to speculate that Musk is preparing to bring in entirely new teams.

The move comes despite Musk telling employees during a meeting in late November that no more plans for staff reductions were being made.

At the time, Musk defended the decision to fire 3,700 people, saying: 'There is no choice when the company is losing over $4mn/day.' He defended the decision, saying that all of those who were fired were offered three months of severance, '50% more than legally required'.

Musk flagged changes in November to turn Twitter into a more hardcore work environment, warning staff they will need to be on board or leave the company. Crawford's willingness to sleep in the office as she worked on her deadlines indicated she was a supporter of Musk's vision for Twitter.

Elon Musk has now axed more than half Twitter's workforce since he bought the company last year for $44bn

As details of the cuts emerged, Musk tweeted 'first day of the rest of your life'

Esther Crawford - Musk devotee and someone who had committed to the new hardcore way of life at Twitter - was among those who were shown the door over the weekend

It linked to an online form, in which Musk told employees that if they did not sign by 5pm Eastern time on Thursday they would get three months of severance pay.

Twitter corporate headquarters is seen in San Francisco, California on on November 04, 2022 - just as the period of chaotic layoffs began to unfold

During todays launch of @TwitterBlue the SF team experienced two literal fire drills. The first one happened at HQ and led us to a Starbucks where we kept rolling out the release, then the coffee shop had its own fire drill  sending us back to HQ to finalize the roll out.  pic.twitter.com/bYsJdZyVXs  Esther Crawford  (@esthercrawford) December 13, 2022

The billionaire has been shrewd and direct about the financial turmoil facing the company and made clear prior to his official acquisition that cost-cutting would be the number one priority.

Employees at the time were told they needed to sign a pledge to be able to stay on in their roles. Staff received an email that read: 'If you are sure that you want to be part of the new Twitter, please click yes on the link below.'

Following the diktat, the picture of Crawford laying on a brightly lit conference room floor went viral with the hashtag #SleepWhereYouWork attached.

Many online mocked her, saying sleeping at the office points to an obviously unhealthy relationship with work and that she would likely be fired within weeks anyhow.
A previously unheard interview with Nelson Mandela has strengthened the theory that the CIA tipped off the racist South African government to arrest him.

Mandela claimed that he was told somebody from the American consul in South Africa could have informed the Apartheid-era regime of his whereabouts in 1962.

Declassified CIA documents also revealed that the agency called Mandela a probable Communist and was tracking him as he traveled outside of South Africa.

The details show that the idea the CIA was behind the arrest is both plausible and likely, said Richard Stengel, a collaborator on Mandelas autobiography Long Walk to Freedom.

Mandela was arrested in August 1962 as he was traveling from Johannesburg to Durban having just returned from a two-month trip across Africa.

Nelson Mandela and his wife, Winnie, walk hand in hand upon his release from Victor Prison, Cape Town, in 1990 after 27 years in detention.

Writer Richard Stengel (R) with Nelson Mandela (L). Stengel interviewed Mandela in 1993

What Mandela said about the CIA giving him up STENGEL: Now, Madiba, how, who, how did they know where you were, the police in Howick? MANDELA: No, I dont think personally there was anything. I dont think so. They said it was an American Consul or something like that. STENGEL: Yes. With some CIA connections. MANDELA: Yes, quite. Thats what they say. But I dont think so because unless there was somebody with a CIA connection [INTERRUPTION] and no, I dont know, I cant vouch for that, I have no evidence. I know however that I met too many people for a man underground Thats why I think that its not altogether correct that it was the American Consul with CIA connections. But I cant say that that was not the case. Advertisement

Mandela had been raising money for the military campaign of the African National Congress (ANC), the political organization he led, in its battle against the South African government.

At the time it was the peak of tensions between the US and the Soviet Union and the administration of John F. Kennedy believed that Mandela and the ANC were secret allies of the Soviets.

I think that its not altogether correct that it was the American Consul with CIA connections. But I cant say that that was not the case.

After 27 years in prison, Mandela was released in 1990 as apartheid crumbled and was elected South Africa's first black president in 1994.

Mr Stengel interviewed Mandela in 1993 but has only made the audio public now in a new podcast series, Mandela: The Lost Tapes.

In one episode Mr Stengel asked how the police knew his location: the arresting officer knew who Mandela was even though he was in disguise and gave a fake name.

He said: I dont think personally there was anything. I dont think so. They said it was an American Consul or something like that

Mr Stengel said: Yes. With some CIA connections.

Mandela said: Yes, quite.I cant vouch for that, I have no evidence. I think that its not altogether correct that it was the American Consul with CIA connections. But I cant say that that was not the case.

Mandela said he didnt even inquire later on to firm up the theory, which Mr Stengel attributes to his mindset of working with his enemies even if he disagreed with them.

Documents released by the CIA in 2017 to Mr Stengel - which he is making public for the first time - showed it labeled Mandela a probable Communist in May 1961.

A document marked SECRET called him an able organizer who reportedly has ample funds at his disposal.

In a longer CIA member in February 1962, also marked SECRET, the agency said Mandela was head of the ANCs guerilla movement.

The memo says that Mandela, who died in 2013 aged 95, is no longer in South Africa, which Mr Stengel says is the first evidence the CIA was tracking him.

At the time it was the peak of tensions between the US and the Soviet Union and the administration of John F. Kennedy believed that Mandela and the ANC were secret allies of the Soviets.

When Mr Stengel submitted further requests from the CIA seeking information about whether it tipped off the South African police, the agency responded by saying it could neither confirm nor deny the existence or nonexistence of records.

The material adds to a growing body of evidence about the CIAs involvement in Mandelas arrest.

In 1986 the Johannesburg Star ran a story citing a retired senior police officer saying the South African police had been alerted to Mandelas location by a CIA operative for the region.

The agent had supposedly bragged about it while drunk at a party hosted by Mad Mike Hoare, an infamous Anglo-Irish mercenary.

Picture shows Nelson Mandela's Prison Cell on Robben Island, Cape Town in South Africa

Nelson Mandela (C) holds hands with his wife after his 1990 release from prison

American diplomat Donald C. Rickard, a former CIA officer who confessed he told the South African police where Mandela was

Four years later, around the time Mandela was freed from prison in 1990 and about to visit the US, the Atlanta Journal Constitution published another bombshell.

According to a retired American intelligence operative, within hours of Mandelas arrest a senior CIA agent named Paul Eckel came into his office in Washington to inform him.

Mr Eckel supposedly said: We have turned Mandela over to the South African security branch. We gave them every detail, what he would be wearing, the time of day, just where he would be. They have picked him up. It is one of our greatest coups.

In 2016 Donald Rickard, a former CIA officer, told British film director John Irvin he was the one who told the South African police about Mandelas whereabouts.

Mr Rickard was 88 at the time and died two weeks after making his confession, which featured in a documentary about Mandela.

A biography of Mr Hoare in 2018 said that Mr Rickard thought that Mandela was under the control of the Soviet Union and that he had to be stopped.
The DUP hailed 'significant progress' tonight but warned they still need more assurances after Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen shook hands on new Brexit rules for Northern Ireland.

The unionists gave a careful response after the PM and EU commission president unveiled the package - the result of months of tortuous negotiations - at a press conference.

Mr Sunak said they had achieved a 'decisive breakthrough' and forged a 'Windsor Framework' - named after the location of their talks.

He promised 'smooth flow of trade' between mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, with UK VAT, customs and medicines rules applying in the province. He argued that the minimum of EU rules would be followed to avoid a hard border with the Republic - European judges staying as the final arbiter on those.

But a 'Stormont Brake' will mean laws cannot be forced on the province if opposed by 30 assembly members from at least two parties. If the threshold is met they can ask the UK government to wield a veto.

Mr Sunak insisted the settlement can open a 'new chapter' in ties with Brussels, although he acknowledged the DUP will want to 'consider the detail' and the government will 'give them time and space to do that'.

The premier declared that a Commons vote will be held - but suggested it might not happen quickly. The government has declared it will drop the NI Protocol Bill as part of the overhaul, against the wishes of many Eurosceptics. Ms von der Leyen suggested that the UK will now be allowed into the Horizon science scheme.

'I believe we have found ways to end the uncertainty and challenge for the people of Northern Ireland,' Mr Sunak said.

Downing Street has boasted of 'significant and far reaching' concessions, and there were bombshell rumours this afternoon that the DUP is ready to shift position and accept the agreement.

The reports came despite the unionists having set red lines that have not been met - including completely removing the role of the European Court of Justice. Having the DUP on board would pave the way for the restoration of powersharing at Stormont.

Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson played down the claims in the Irish News. And in a statement this evening he gave a nuanced reaction - highlighting that there could be 'no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland'.

'Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required,' he said.

But in a sign of potential division, fellow DUP MP Ian Paisley suggested the agreement already 'does not cut the mustard'.

In other positive noises for Mr Sunak, Northern Ireland minister and self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker - who has been on 'resignation watch' over the past few days - said this afternoon that the government had done a 'fantastic' deal.

He said 'pragmatic' colleagues should 'bank the success and move on'.

Rishi Sunak (left) said he and Ursula von der Leyen (right) had achieved a 'decisive breakthrough' and forged a 'Windsor Framework' - named after the location of their talks

Rishi Sunak has thrashed out a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak held around an hour and 45 minutes of talks in Windsor today

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker was in Downing Street again today, amid rumours that whips have put him on 'resignation watch'

The Windsor hotel being used as a venue for the talks this afternoon

Mr Sunak tweeted ahead of the meeting with Ms von der Leyen

Jeffrey Donaldson tried to cool claims the DUP is ready to back the PM's Brexit deal for NI

Former Cabinet minister Nadine Dorries dismissed the warm words from Mr Baker

Cabinet signed off the plans this afternoon, after the one hour and 45 minute meeting between Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen.

But Mr Sunak could still face a rough ride from Tories when he makes a statement to the Commons this evening.

The PM's allies are waiting nervously to see how Boris Johnson will react to the revised terms, with fears he could intervene in the debate.

Meanwhile, the government is facing a furious backlash for dragging the King into the political pressure-cooker - as Charles will meet Ms von der Leyen separately this afternoon during her visit.

Brussels has agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

What is in Rishi's new 'Windsor Framework' for NI? Green lanes for trade: Goods destined from mainland Britain for Northern Ireland will travel through a new green lane, with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU. Food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry and we will end the situation where food made to UK rules could not be sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. Taking back control of tax: The legal text of the of the NI protocol has been altered to make sure the UK has control of VAT and excise duty in Northern Ireland. Mr Sunak said the change would reduce alcohol duty 'meaning our reforms to cut the cost of a pint in a pub will now apply in Northern Ireland'. Medicines and pets: UK medicine regulations will apply in Northern Ireland, and there will also be fewer controls on pets be transported to and from mainland Britain. Sovereignty guarantee: The Stormont Assembly, which has not sat since the DUP withdrew from its power-sharing executive in February last year, will gain new powers over the introduction of new EU trade laws that could have a large impact on trade. Advertisement

Mr Sunak has secured a package that removes 97 per cent of EU law from Northern Ireland.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism - a 'Stormont Brake' - intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

Mr Sunak appears to have had a crucial win by persuading the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

That meant that the changes on VAT and other taxes and regulations were possible.

The Windsor Framework document confirmed that the government will not abandon the NI Protocol Bill - which would have unilaterally overridden the protocol.

'Overall the agreement delivers on the core objectives that the Government set out previously in the Command Paper of July 2021 and the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill in June 2022, such that it is no longer necessary to proceed with the Bill.

'In tandem, the EU will no longer proceed with the seven separate legal challenges it had brought against the UK in relation to the Protocol.'

Sir Jeffrey said after the announcement: 'We welcome the publication of the outcome of the Government's negotiations with the EU which ends a period of speculation and spin, often from those who know little about Northern Ireland.

'In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.

'The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts. Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required.

'Ultimately the party will now assess all these proposed outcomes and arrangements against our seven tests, outlined in our 2022 Assembly Election Manifesto, to determine whether what has been published meet our tests and whether it respects and restores Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom.'

Mr Sunak said: 'For a quarter of a century the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement has endured because at its heart it is respectful to the aspirations and identity of all communities. Today's agreement is about preserving that delicate balance and charting a new way forward for the people of Northern Ireland.

'Today's agreement delivers the smooth flow of trade within the United Kingdom. Goods destined for Northern Ireland will travel through a new green lane with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU.

'Food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry and we will end the situation where food made to UK rules could not be sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. This means that if food is available on supermarket shelves in Great Britain, then it will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland.'

Referencing the process of sending parcels and VAT, he said: 'This means we have removed any sense of a border in the Irish Sea. Second, we have protected Northern Ireland's place in the Union.'

Ms von der Leyen said she took 'pride' in delivering on the commitment to fix the issues with the Northern Ireland Protocol.

'This new framework will allow us to begin a new chapter,' she said.

'It provides for long-lasting solutions that both of us are confident will work for all people and businesses in Northern Ireland. Solutions that respond directly to the concerns they have raised.

'Prime Minister, we worked hard across a wide range of areas. The new arrangements are delivering a comprehensive package so that we can address in a definitive way the issues faced in everyday lives.'

Ms von der Leyen stressed that 'the European Court of Justice is the sole and ultimate arbiter of EU law'. 'That's natural because it's prescribed by the EU order. So the ECJ will have the final say in EU law and single market decisions.'

But she said that through the new framework each side has 'worked hard' to add the new Stormont brake.

Tory Eurosceptics were largely keeping their powder dry this morning.

But Mr Baker moved to quash rumours he will quit after another bout of talks in No10.

He told broadcasters: 'I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.'

In a round of interviews this morning, Jacob Rees-Mogg did not rule out backing the plan, but suggested Mr Sunak will fail to win over the DUP.

The ex-Cabinet minister told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'There are two things we need to know: one is what the DUP thinks, because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement.

'So, if the DUP doesn't think that it meets test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

'I'm afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say 'we need to see the legal text', they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.'

Ms von der Leyen is also holding talks with King Charles during her visit to Windsor.

That has caused a wave of anger among DUP and Eurosceptic figures that the monarch is being dragged into the contentious politics of Brexit.

Buckingham Palace seemed to point the finger at ministers by saying the government had advised that the King should meet the visiting dignitary.

Ex-DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one.

'It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.'

Mr Rees-Mogg said was 'constitutionally unwise' for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen around the signing of the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: 'It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

'It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

The PM's official spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes 'fundamentally' the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

'He firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions,' the official said.

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today.'

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, the spokesman said: 'There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant occasions, this is no different.'

Downing Street has stressed that there are still substantive issues for the PM and Ms von der Leyen to address this afternoon, although they are thought to have tied up the main elements in talks by phone yesterday.

Irish deputy leader Micheal Martin has praised 'very significant and substantial progress' in protocol negotiations between the UK and EU.

'I think we'll leave it to both the President of the Commission and the British Prime Minister to announce whatever has to be announced this afternoon, but I think it's clear that very significant progress has been made,' he told RTE Radio.

'Over the last number of months, trust did build up between the two parties. Very substantial and serious negotiations have taken place in fairly significant detail, working up fairly substantive papers.'

Mr Martin said the customs data agreement struck earlier this year was a 'gamechanger' that 'facilitated a new fresh approach to that issue'.

The foreign affairs minister said the primary concerns that have been articulated by unionism in particular  include the bureaucratic barriers to goods being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the 'democratic deficit' on what input Northern Ireland would have on any future EU regulations, and state aid issues  had been heard.

'All of these issues, I think, have been responded to. I think the European Union has listened,' he said.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson (pictured today) told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak chat as they go into the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel today

EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen took the Eurostar to London ahead of the meeting with the PM in Windsor

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan (left) and Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden (right) were in Downing Street for the Cabinet meeting this afternoon

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt was at the Cabinet discussion to sign off the deal today

Ms von der Leyen will also hold talks with King Charles - raising fears that the monarch is being dragged into politics

Former DUP leader Arlene Foster was scathing about the decision to tie in a meeting between Ms von der Leyen and the King

Northern ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris in Downing Street today

What is the Brexit row about and what has been the impact on Northern Ireland? The UK and the EU have been engaged in intense negotiations over the workings of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the original withdrawal agreement that allowed the UK to leave the EU. It was designed to ensure the free movement of goods across the Irish land border with Ulster after Brexit. Rather than being an internal EU line between two countries, with Brexit it became a border between the bloc and a third party country with different customs and trade rules. In any other cases it would be solved simply by creating a 'hard' border - physical checks on vehicles and people travelling between the two. But the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence in 1998, expressly prohibits a return to such checkpoints on the island of Ireland. To get around this the protocol instead created economic barriers on trade being shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. It has proven to be deeply unpopular with unionists, who claim it has weakened Northern Ireland's place within the UK. Last year the DUP collapsed the powersharing institutions at Stormont in protest at the arrangements. It came as the party was replaced as the largest in the powersharing government by Sinn Fein for the first time. And the DUP is refusing to back a deal and restart powersharing unless their concerns are realised. They have set seven tests that it must pass to be approved. Advertisement

Mr Sunak has said the deal 'will show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job', adding: 'This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

'It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.'

The package is expected to include a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply in the province.

The PM held private talks in No 10 with Mr Baker yesterday in a sign of concern about resignations, while a survey by the grass-roots Conservative Home website found Tory activists oppose the idea of Mr Sunak's plan by 41 per cent to 36.

Former Brexit minister Lord Frost has urged the PM to revive the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, saying it was vital to be 'really tough' with Brussels.

The European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs has said it will establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to examine whether the new deal meets their sovereignty tests.

Meanwhile, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said it was a 'red line' for his party that 'there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK'.

Cabinet ministers, who will be formally briefed on the plans this afternoon, were last night ringing round Conservative MPs to shore up support.

Mr Sunak is expected to unveil the details in a statement to Parliament this afternoon.

However, there has been concern that MPs have not yet been guaranteed a vote on the deal.

Some are concerned that they have been left in the dark during talks.

One MP claimed Downing Street had kept them out of the loop to 'set everything up' and present the deal as 'a fait accompli'.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

No10 has been warned that rebels will force an indicative vote whether they want one or not.

The PM will tell MPs that his deal will secure Northern Ireland's place in the Union and protect the future of the Good Friday Agreement.

It is expected to lead to the scrapping of a barrage of EU checks on goods sent to the province from the rest of the UK, which have caused major problems for businesses and families, and led to unionist fears that Northern Ireland could be forced out of the UK.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said Mr Sunak was 'on the cusp' of a deal that would result in the 'substantial scaling back' of the role of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland.

Mr Raab said the deal would mark a 'paradigm shift' in relations and 'would be very good news for the communities of Northern Ireland and I think for the Good Friday Agreement as well'.

Ministers are optimistic that they can win over most Eurosceptic Tory MPs with a deal which Mr Raab said would 'properly and fully get Brexit done' and open the door to warmer relations with the EU.

But senior figures in the DUP warned that they were not yet convinced the deal would deliver enough to persuade them to re-enter power-sharing in Northern Ireland, a key objective of the PM.

And some Tory Eurosceptics said they would struggle to support a deal that was not supported by the DUP and which left the EU with a toehold in the UK.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak yesterday said he was 'giving it everything we've got' to get a deal.

In an interview with the Sunday Times, the PM said his new agreement was not a threat to Brexit but about 'making sure Brexit works in every part of the UK'.

Last night, neither No 10 nor Buckingham Palace would comment on whether the King would meet Mrs von der Leyen today.

Details of a planned meeting on Saturday, which was cancelled for 'operational reasons', raised concerns that No 10 was hoping to give the deal the impression of royal approval to head off opposition.

The Mail on Sunday revealed yesterday that the King's first overseas trip will be to Berlin and Paris, in a break from the tradition of using the inaugural visit to travel to a Commonwealth country.

Jacob Rees-Mogg said it would be 'wrong if Downing Street has applied pressure on the King' over a highly political issue. And Mr Wilson warned No 10 against a 'cynical use' of the King's position.

ERG chairman Mark Francois said the concessions did not appear to go far enough, and he would accept a deal only if 'EU law is expunged from Northern Ireland'. 'Less of a role is not enough.

'Just putting a couple of intermediate phases in but in a situation where you still end up with the European Court of Justice is effectively sophistry. We're not stupid.'

DUP MP Ian Paisley said: 'If the PM's plan involves keeping any part of the protocol, the DUP will not be going back into power-sharing.
Boris Johnson failed to appear in the Commons to see Rishi Sunak unveil his new Brexit deal tonight and claim that the UK had finally 'taken back control'.

The former PM had been expected to attend and run his rule over the Windsor Framework that seeks to untie the trade knots created by his own Withdrawal Agreement.

But he was not in his seat tonight as Mr Sunak faced MPs to extoll the virtues of what he and his ministers have done. He is understood to have been studying and reflecting on the government's proposals elsewhere.

He missed Mr Sunak telling MPs he was scrapping Mr Johnson's planned Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, which would have tried to bulldoze the Brexit deal out of the way of free movement of goods into Northern Ireland.

His fellow former PM, Liz Truss, also appeared to be absent from Mr Sunak's statement.

Mr Sunak is due to present the Windsor Framework unveiled this afternoon to MPs in the Commons later tonight.

Mr Johnson is believed to still be considering the new deal on the protocol negotiated by Rishi Sunak.

A source close to the former prime minister said that he is continuing to study and reflect on the Government's proposals.

Member of the Tory European Research Group (ERG) are awaiting a sign from Mr Johnson over where he stands before they follow suite and oppose the plan in any future vote.

Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg this afternoon told GB News the position of Mr Johnson, who he described as the 'biggest figure in UK politics', will be 'fundamental'.

Mr Sunak said tonight he believes 'passionately with my head and my heart' that the Windsor Framework is the 'right way forward'.

He told the Commons: 'We've achieved free-flowing trade with a green lane for goods, no burdensome customs bureaucracy, no routine checks on trade, no paperwork whatsoever for Northern Irish goods moving into Great Britain and no border in the Irish Sea.

'We've protected Northern Ireland's place in the Union with state aid reach-back fixed, the same tax rules applying everywhere, vet certificates for food lorries gone, the ban on British sausages gone, parcel paperwork gone, pet paperwork gone, garden centres now selling the same trees, supermarkets selling the same food, and pharmacies selling the same medicines.

And all eyes will be on his predecessor - whose fate was sealed by Mr Sunak's resignation as Chancellor - and whether he will intervene in the debate. Jacob Rees-Mogg said his position will be 'fundamental'.

'And we've safeguarded sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland with the democratic deficit closed, the Vienna Convention confirmed, thousands of pages of EU law scrapped and with the Stormont brake we have safeguarded democracy and sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

'So that is the choice before us. Let us seize the opportunity of this moment, the certainty of an agreement that fixes the problems we faced, commands broad support and consensus and offers us, at last, the freedom to move forward together - that is what the people of Northern Ireland deserve, that is what the Windsor Framework delivers.

'As a Conservative, a Brexiteer and a unionist, I believe passionately with my head and my heart that this is the right way forward - right for Northern Ireland, right for our United Kingdom.'

Last week Mr Johnson refused to guarantee he would back Rishi Sunak 's deal over the Northern Ireland Protocol.

He urged Mr Sunak to instead concentrate his efforts on controversial new laws at Westminster that would give ministers the power to unilaterally override parts of the Protocol.

'It's important that we wait to see what there may be,' Mr Johnson tonight told Sky News of Mr Sunak's efforts to reach a Protocol resolution with Brussels.

'But I think the best way forward, as I said when I was running the Government, is the Northern Ireland Bill which cleared the Commons very comfortably - I think unamended - when I was in office only a few months ago.

'So I think that's the best way forward.'

Pressed on whether he could guarantee his support for a Protocol deal struck by Mr Sunak, Mr Johnson added: 'I think the best thing is to continue with the Northern Ireland Bill that we agreed.
Ron DeSantis officially took control of Disney's Reedy Creek Improvement district in his war with the 'corporate kingdom' in a move that will give him the power to select the board and force them to pay $700 million in taxes and debts.

It comes as the governor and Florida's first lady Casey DeSantis admitted the 'irony' that they got married at Disney in 2009 and now are in a battle with the 'woke' corporation.

DeSantis celebrated with the stroke of his pen marking the Disney 'corporate kingdom coming to an end' as he vowed to make the company pay its fair share of taxes.

The Sunshine State now has power over the formerly self-governing, special tax exempt district encompassing the entire Walt Disney World Resort, which was established in 1967.

'Disney loses self-governing status, the State of Florida is the new sheriff in town,' he said at a press briefing Monday. 'Buckle up  there's a lot to get done.'

Ron DeSantis signed the bill Monday that will move to dissolve the current Reedy Creek board and overhaul the entire formerly self-governing district where Walt Disney World sits

DeSantis celebrated at a press conference that the law brings Disney's 'corporate kingdom coming to an end'

DeSantis is kicking off a book tour as his memoir The Courage to Be Free: Florida's Blueprint for America's Revival hits shelves on Tuesday amid rumors he could launch a 2024 presidential campaign any day now.

The new law signed Monday, DeSantis said, essentially makes sure that Disney does not get any special treatment that other theme parks in the state are not receiving.

HOW WILL REEDY CREEK CHANGE NOW DESANTIS IS IN CHARGE? Reedy Creek will officially dissolve on June 1, 2023 and be renamed to the he Central Florida Tourism Oversight District with the signing of the new legislation on Monday This legislation amends the current Reedy Creek Improvement District charter established in 1967. This will:  End Disneys self-governing status, which included control of infrastructure such as roads and buildings in the area.  Impose Florida law on the area that has been operating independently for more than 50 years  Prevent Disney from receiving preferential treatment  End exemption from Florida Fire Prevention and Building Code  Stop Disney from skirting state regulatory reviews and approvals  Require Disney to pay taxes  Ensure Disney will also pay $700 million in debts  Ensure transparency in the district  Prevent leftist leaders in Orlando from raising local taxes Advertisement

He said that the establishments of Reedy Creek in the 1960's created an 'unhealthy' relationship where Disney and Florida government were 'attached at the hip.'

Previously, Reedy Creek Improvement District was able to act with the same authority as a county government, making its own rules and governing itself.

Now, DeSantis is taking the power back from Disney to on Monday announced the appointment of a five-member board to oversee the nearly 40-square mile area in Orlando.

'I got a lot on my plate, I can't be running this from the governor's office,' DeSantis said. 'So we've created a state governing board that is going to be responsible for governing this area.'

'They've got a lot of work to do,' he added. 'They know that our vision is. OK, yes, Disney no longer has its own government, but you've got to ensure that all of these laws are applied, you've got to ensure the debt is paid, you've got to ensure the fair share of taxes are paid.'

The new law on Monday brings to a head a culmination of a nearly year-long battle between DeSantis and Disney stemming from passage of the Parental Rights in Education bill.

Disney's then CEO Bob Chapek released a statement condemning DeSantis for the law, which critics have dubbed the 'Don't Say Gay' bill because it restricts educators from including in their curriculum discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity from kindergarten through third grade.

It came after Chapek, who is no longer CEO of Disney, said he wouldn't take a stand on the matter. But the day after the bill passed, the former CEO condemned it while offering a $5 million donation to LGBT advocacy group Human Rights Campaign.

This launched the now year-long war between Governor DeSantis and Disney.

In response to the controversy, Disney paused their contributions to Florida political campaigns and assessed their 'approach to advocacy, including political giving in Florida.'

Florida first lady Casey DeSantis said in an interview that aired Monday that she likely wouldn't bring her children back to Disney 'until things change a little bit over there.'

Walt Disney World sits on grounds governed by Reedy Creek, which functions as its own little government with taking care of roads, providing fire services and handling building codes and water and waste collection.

Reedy Creek Improvement District was established in 1967 and gave the area self-governing power and made it exempt from normal state taxes. The nearly 40-square mile vicinity included Walt Disney World and the resort, as well as residential areas where hand-picked employees of the park and their families live

Ron and Casey DeSantis discussed the 'irony' in a Monday interview of getting married at Walt Disney World as the Florida governor is now in an on-going battle with the 'woke' corporation

The board was previously always dictated by landowners within the district, creating a system that the rest of the state felt was unfair.

Casey DeSantis says Ron looked like Tom Cruise in his white Navy uniform Ron DeSantis wore his white Navy officer uniform for their wedding in September 2009 Advertisement

The new board, however, is composed of businessmen, lawyers and school board members from across the state. They are scheduled to meet for the first time next Wednesday.

One of the priorities, DeSantis said, is making sure that first responders are properly compensated in the district.

Reedy Creek, which will officially be dissolved on June 1, is also getting a new name  the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.

'How do you give one theme park its own government and then treat all the other theme parks differently?' DeSantis questioned during his press conference on Monday.

'Disney is gonna be treated like Sea World is treated, or like any of these others,' he added. 'And that's really the fair thing to do.'

'So I'll be signing the bill momentarily and that will officially end the self-governing status here in Central Florida for Disney.'

Shortly after his remarks, DeSantis signed the bill on-camera surrounded by those who will be serving on the new board.

The new board's chairman is Martin Garcia, who is a Tampa-based businessman that served as the campaign manager for Trump impeachment lawyer Pam Bondi in her successful 2010 run for Florida attorney general.

The remaining four members are Sarasota County School Board member Bridget Ziegler, former Clearwater Mayor Brian Aungst, central Florida attorney Michael Sasso and businessman Ron Peri.

The first phase of Walt Disney World is shown under construction in 1969, two years after the Reedy Creek Improvement District where the resort sits was established in the state of Florida
Adam Driver's mother-in-law was reported to once be a teacher in an alleged New York City cult that has been accused by some of emotional abuse and pressuring members to commit infidelity, child abuse and forced labor.

Cynthia May, 67, the mother of Driver's wife, Joanne Tucker, allegedly hosted lectures for the Odyssey Study Group (OSG), her ex-husband Spencer Schneider wrote in his new book that claims to reveal an insider's look into the secret cult.

He pointed out, however, that he has doubts she's still involvement, and made clear that Driver and Tucker had no involvement in the group.

The group was allegedly founded by 'Slaughterhouse Five' actress Sharon Gans and her playwright husband Alex Horn in San Francisco in the 1970s and then reopened under a different name in NYC in the 1980s.

Following Gans' death of Covid-related complications in January 2021, several former members of the group, including Schneider, have revealed how they were forced to pay for the 'lectures' at '$400 a month to fund their leaders' lavish lifestyles.

Adam Driver's mother-in-law, Cynthia May, 67, reportedly used to teach classes for an alleged NYC cult that has been accused of emotional abuse and pressuring members to commit infidelity. Pictured are Driver and his wife, May's daughter, Joanne Tucker in New York in 2021

The group was allegedly founded by 'Slaughterhouse Five' actress Sharon Gans and her husband Alex Horn in San Francisco in the 1970s and then reopened in NYC in the 1980s

Schneider, now 62, joined the group in 1989 and then married May within months under Gans orders, according to his new book, Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival.

Schneider spoke to The U.S. Sun about the cult, which has a history of alleged mental abuse, physical abuse, homophobia, racism and child abuse, the outlet reported.

He claimed Gans would force people to reveal their greatest insecurity or fear so others could verbally assault and berated them.

Schneider also talked about how his situation was 'no way near as bad as others.'

'She had gay people marry straight people, because she believed in gay conversion which of course doesn't exist, and she would also break up marriages.

'I didn't realize how bad it was until I was about 10 or 15 years in and I finally saw how mercilessly she treated people, and how they weren't trying to improve anyone's lives but instead hurt them.

'But I couldn't get out because of how wrapped up my whole life was in that group.

'I was very afraid of leaving.'

Schneider's arraigned marriage to May lasted until 2009 when the pair got a divorce. He said he does not know if May - who lives in Brooklyn - is still involved. And said that May's daughter and son-in-law actor Adam Driver 'have no involvement in it whatsoever.'

'None,' stated Schneider. 'I know Adam and Joanne very well, they're my stepdaughter and son-in-law.'

'They have no involvement in it, [but] I think Joanne knows about Sharon, you know, she knows about that,' continued Schneider. 'But they all have no involvement at all and they didn't like Sharon, the kids.'

'They all hated her,' he added. 'They all hated her.'

Dailymail.com reached out to Driver's reps for comment but have not heard back.

May's ex-husband Spencer Schneider, 62, wrote a book about the alleged cult, which has a history of alleged mental abuse, physical abuse, homophobia, racism and child abuse

Schneider's new book new book, 'Manhattan Cult Story: My Unbelievable True Story of Sex, Crimes, Chaos, and Survival' claims to reveal an insider's look into the secret cult

As for May, Schneider said he has his doubts if she's still in involved.

'I have my doubts if she's still involved,' Schneider said. 'She might be, but she was also cut out from Sharon's will several years ago, so she may have been on the outs.'

'And there are other things that make me think she's not in it anymore,' he added.

In 2021, the alleged cult bought a $925K retreat in upstate New York where they allegedly forced people to work around the clock.

'They get members to do all the work,' a source told the Post in July 2022. 'Long hours. No pay. Intense. People are taken there [Margaretville] without knowing where they're going.'

Later the same year, two women sued the group claiming they had to pay to work as unpaid housekeepers, cooks and assistants for Gans and her husband.

Stephanie Rosenberg and Marjorie Hochman filed a lawsuit against the Odyssey Study Group, which marketed itself as a study group but was actually an alleged cult, in Manhattan Supreme Court on Monday.

The lawsuit also names the estate managers for actress Gans.

Sharon Gans, who died in January at age 85, ran the 'ultra-secret cult' Odyssey Study Group

Schenider wrote in his book that Gans held herself in the same esteem as 'Christ and Buddha', imparting what she called 'ancient oral wisdom'

The two women, who defected in 2019 and 2016, say they paid $400 a month in membership dues beginning in 2005 for the privilege of serving as unpaid 'personal assistants, cooks, housekeepers, drivers, and personal shoppers for Gans' who lived in luxury with her husband at the Plaza hotel.

Rosenberg and Hochman say they witnessed physical and mental abuse, child abuse, sexual abuse, private adoptions, arranged marriages, and financial crimes during their time in Gans' group.

Examples of the more serious allegations are not spelled out in the 21-page-lawsuit.

'Through methods traditionally utilized by cults to groom, intimidate, weaken, gaslight, and exploit their victims, OSG coerced and tricked its members,' the suit states.

'The members of the cult made Defendants Sharon Gans and others very rich.'

The two women who filed the lawsuit and other members allegedly worked as many as 80 hours a week and paid for things like groceries out of their own pockets as part of their participation in the group.

Their 'Odyssey' group in New York allegedly treated its members as slaves and demanded monthly $400 dues that allowed Gans to buy an $8.5 million apartment in the Plaza Hotel

Members of Gans's 1970s San Francisco theater group said they saw children being neglected backstage while their parents performed countless chores

Gans won an Obie Award for Best Actress in 1966 for her performance in Soon Jack November. She then starred in a 1972 film version of Slaughterhouse-Five. She died in January at age 85.

Gans and her husband Alex Horn fled San Francisco in the late 1970s after similar allegations about their first group, Theatre of All Possibilities, were published in the San Francisco Chronicle in December 1978.

Theatre of All Possibilities members told the Chronicle and San Francisco officials they paid thousands to learn the techniques of Russian philosophers George Ivanovich Gurdjieff and P.D. Ouspensky.

Members of that group said they were beaten if they didn't sell enough dinner show tickets to people they were told to confront in the street.

They also alleged child neglect as children were left backstage while their parents rehearsed or performed 'countless other chores.'

Gans and her husband reportedly believed that the path to self-development involves labor and intentional suffering, according to the New York Post.

After the San Francisco debacle, Sharon and her husband set up shop in New York in the early 1980s and were eventually able to buy an $8.5 million apartment at Manhattan's Plaza Hotel with money collected from their subjects, according to the Post.
China's lithium-ion battery sector expands rapidly in 2022

Xinhua) 08:39, February 27, 2023

Aerial photo taken on June 24, 2022 shows the headquarters of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL) and its manufacturing base in Ningde, east China's Fujian Province. (Xinhua/Lin Shanchuan)

BEIJING, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- China's lithium-ion battery industry sustained rapid growth in 2022, official data showed.

The total output of lithium-ion batteries exceeded 750 gigawatt-hours (GWh) last year, soaring 130 percent year on year, data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology revealed.

The total output value exceeded 1.2 trillion yuan (about 174.06 billion U.S. dollars) as the industrial scale further expanded last year.

China's robust lithium-ion battery output echoes the country's booming production of new energy vehicles (NEVs). The installed capacity of power batteries for NEVs came in at about 295 GWh last year.

Exports of lithium-ion battery products jumped 86.7 percent year on year to 342.65 billion yuan, according to the ministry.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
President Yoon Suk Yeol shakes hands with a graduating student during a commencement ceremony at Yonsei University in Seoul, Monday. In his commencement address, Yoon vowed to create a freer and fairer society for new graduates, asking them to march together toward innovation. Yonhap



President Yoon Suk Yeol addressed the graduating class of Yonsei University on Monday, saying he will create a fairer society free from the "cartels of those with vested rights."



In his commencement address, Yoon also asked the graduating students to march together toward innovation with the aim of adjusting the country's systems and institutions to the global standards of innovative and advanced nations.



"Innovation is achieved when we break up the cartels of those with vested rights, create a freer and fairer system, and practice it together," he said before some 1,300 graduates and school officials.



"Innovation is bound to be accompanied by the resistance of those with vested rights. When we have the will and courage to overcome this, that is when we can realize innovation," he added.





President Yoon Suk Yeol delivers a congratulatory speech during a commencement ceremony at Yonsei University in Seoul, Feb. 27. Yonhap
A TikTok sleuth who filmed Nicola Bulley's body being pulled from a river has claimed he has made an 'anonymous' donation to her family.

Curtis Arnold, 34, of Kidderminster, Worcestershire, said he had made a donation 'five times the amount' his clip made in royalties to the late mother-of-two's family to apologise for his actions.

However, he refused to disclose the exact amount of the 'anonymous donation' and has still not removed the offending footage from his YouTube channel.

The amateur journalist managed to barge his way into the official press area and duped police officers on the day Ms Bulley's body was found before posting the distasteful content to his online accounts.

The 45-year-old mortgage adviser had been missing for 23 days before her body was discovered in the River Wyre, Lancashire, last Sunday.

Curtis Arnold, 34, covertly filmed Nicola Bulley's body being lifted from the river. Arnold has revealed the lengths to which he and others will go to achieve their ends

Police confirmed yesterday a body found in the River Wyre was that of the missing mother-of-two Nicola Bulley, 45

On his several 'Curtis Media' social media channels, he defended his actions, saying he was offering 'media and journalism done differently' to 'help get justice for those who can't'.

In his latest video offering explaining the controversial clip, he says: 'Safe to say I've learned my lesson maybe on a video like that but at the same time there are a lot of people saying that the video is helpful to highlight the police not really doing what they should be doing.'

He says that he has taken the video off TikTok and Facebook - but makes no mention of his YouTube channel.

He previously gleefully revealed the 716.06 in royalties that he had made from YouTube alone covering the case, adding: 'It is probably 900 by now but it takes a while to come through.

Ribbons left on a bench in St Michael's on Wyre, Lancashire, for Nicola Bulley, 45, who was last seen on Friday, January 27, before her body was found in the river 23 days later

'My ambition is to be a full-time YouTuber and make a good living from it. The income potential is there and I love doing what I am doing on the channel.'

In his apology, Arnold said: 'In hindsight, perhaps it was a little bit sensitive, perhaps it was bad timing to put that video online as an individual journalist for YouTube rather than mainstream media.

'Perhaps I didn't take into account the family at that time - I admit that. I'd like to take this opportunity to apologise to the family for any upset caused by the videos.

'Paul Ansell if you're watching this I hope it hasn't offended you too much and I wish you well with moving forward.'

The muscle-bound powerlifter makes regular six-hour round trips from his Worcestershire home to St Michael's on Wyre, Lancashire and films with a GoPro camera strapped to his chest.

He has headlined a string of videos with outrageous smears against Mr Ansell and filmed a 'possible burial site' in woodland near where Nicola was last seen on January 27.

The hairdresser's most controversial video also showed an ashen faced couple in shock after finding Nicola's body in reeds by the River Wyre on February 19.

He admits that he was lying when he told a police officer that he was returning to his parked car after a 'walk in the countryside' and claimed to another that he was from Blackpool.

At some stage after tricking his way past the police road blocks, Arnold crouched in a field to film covertly on his Samsung S21 smartphone.

He recalled: 'I held the phone as high above me as I could, resting it on fencing.

'I couldn't see a thing but I knew my camera would be recording whatever was happening. It wasn't until I got back to where the mainstream media were gathered that I realised what was on the footage.'

He then put the video online, where it went viral and was viewed almost a million times.

Mr Arnold had hidden his identity; was careful not to appear on camera; and sometimes used a picture of Mr Ansell as his profile image.

It comes after the Sun reported that Arnold is a 'narcissistic' and 'manipulative' trickster with a number of previous criminal convictions - including drink driving, burglary and fraud.

His most recent criminal conviction is said to have come for a fraud charge in 2018, for which he served a custodial sentence, while his criminality stretches back to when he was in his 20s.

Arnold duped a police officer into letting him continue walking along a road close to where Ms Bulley's body was found

Arnold also reportedly posed as a fitness modelling agent and visited a number of gyms across London under the guise of being on the search for female models to promote a range of leggings.

Instead, though, he is said to have taken a number of sexualised photos and videos before sharing them on social media without permission to promote his own fitness products.

Arnold reportedly served his sentence at HMP Wormwood Scrubs following a conviction for fraud by false representation, where he was said to have been unpopular with staff.

A prison source told The Sun: 'He was a very narcissistic, manipulative individual and would regularly try to manipulate female staff, especially education staff.

'He was slimy and would tell them they were beautiful or he preferred them over another officer.

'He would say very inappropriate things and would ask for their mobile numbers and ask to see them outside of the prison.

'But when he started asking female staff to smuggle in phones and drugs for him, it all went down on his report.'

Since Ms Bulley vanished while working her dog along the river near St Michael's on Wyre Friday, January 27, her case has attracted huge attention.

Locals have slammed 'ghouls' and amateur social media sleuths who have descended on the small Lancashire village where she went missing to investigate the case themselves.

Social media platform TikTok has been awash with videos speculating about her disappearance - including speculation, rumours and conspiracy theories.

Experts say that social media algorithms encourage and reward controversial content like Arnold's.

There have been 400 million views on TikTok alone of videos with the hashtag 'NicolaBulley'.

They include over half a million views of 26-year-old 'psychic' Lucy Hesford-Buckingham, from Wales, sharing her vision on the case before Nicola's body was found.

In her video, she claimed that she sensed intuitively from an 'overwhelming smell of lemon bleach' that Nicola was still alive but being held captive and in 'severe danger'.

So many sleuths descended on St Michael's on Wyre that, at one point, police had to issue a 48-hour dispersal order to clear the village of outsiders.

TikTok insists that it removes content and accounts that engage in bullying and harassment or otherwise violate its policies.
China's foreign ministry is pushing back after an Energy Department analysis concluded that the COVID-19 outbreak likely originated after a leak from a Chinese research lab in Wuhan.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning accused unnamed parties of trying to smear or vilify China  even amid continued calls for China to provide full access to information from its Wuhan facility.

'Certain parties should stop rehashing the "lab leak" narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing,' she said during a press briefing Monday

'The origin of the novel coronavirus is a scientific issue and should not be politicized,' the Wall Street Journal reported following its own report Sunday on the new Energy Department findings about an accidental leak, rather than a likely origin that jumped from animals in close contact with humans.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning blasted what she termed 'politicization' of theories on the origins of COVID-19, after an Energy Department analysis that pointed to possibility of a leak from the Wuhan lab

She talked up Chinese cooperation with investigating agencies, although in 2021 China rejected a World Health Organization effort to hold a second phase of its investigation. The group has denied abandoning its inquiry amid China's obstacles.

Congressional Republicans, who have previously talked up the lab leak theory, seized on the new report.

'Re. Chinas lab leak, being proven right doesnt matter. What matters is holding the Chinese Communist Party accountable so this doesnt happen again,' tweeted Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) tweeted the report on the Energy labs, adding: 'For years, Anthony Fauci and Biden officials called this a conspiracy,' she wrote, going after the former head of the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

The Energy Department, which maintains a group of national labs, now joins the FBI in getting behind the possibility of a lab leak as the possible origin of the virus  although it reached the conclusion with 'low confidence' and numerous other agencies back a traditional spread originating in the environment.

The Energy Department has reversed its previous position and has used new research to conclude that the COVID-19 virus most likely leaked from a Chinese research lab.

The new conclusion was issued in an update to a 2021 document prepared by Director of National Intelligence and was recently provided to White House lawmakers, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday.

The Energy Department has now therefore joined the FBI in saying the virus likely spread from a lab in Wuhan. However, four other agencies are still said to favor the 'natural spillover' theory that the virus escaped via an animal at a nearby meat market. Two agencies, one of which is the CIA, are yet to declare a definitive position.

The Energy Department's change of tune is important because the agency is known for its expertise and oversees various US laboratories, some of which carry out biological research.

The Energy Department has reversed its position and concluded based on new intelligence that the Covid-19 virus most likely leaked from a Chinese research lab. Pictured is the Wuhan Institute of Virology in February 2021

White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN on Sunday that there was still 'no definitive answer'

The FBI concluded in 2021 that the virus leaked from a lab and said it did so with 'moderate confidence'. The Energy Department has switched its position and done so with 'low confidence', the WSJ reported.

US officials told the publication that although both departments are in agreement, they formed their conclusions for different reasons.

The FBI also has expertise in disease and virology as it hires microbiologists and immunologists and part of its efforts to protect the country against bioterrorism and weapons.

The government officials who revealed the Energy Department's change of stance would not comment on what new intelligence it based its conclusion on.

White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN on Sunday that there was still 'no definitive answer'.

'Here's what I can tell you. President Biden has directed, repeatedly, every element of our intelligence community to put effort and resources behind getting to the bottom of this question,' he said.

'If we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress, and we will share it with the American people. But right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question.'

Sullivan pointed to a 'variety of views in the intelligence community. Some elements in the intelligence community have reached conclusions on one side, some on the other. A number of them have said they just dont have enough information to be sure.'

Virologist Shi Zheng-li - nicknamed the 'Bat Lady' - is pictured in the lab. She hunted down dozens of deadly Covid-like viruses in bat caves and studied them at the WIV

It comes after in January the US Office of Inspector General openly criticized the National Institutes of Health for failing to properly keep up with US-funded virus experiments in China in the run up to the outbreak.

The federal audit looked at three taxpayer-funded research grants awarded to EcoHealth Alliance, run by British scientist Peter Daszak, between 2014 and 2021.

It found the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and EcoHealth failed to 'understand the nature of the research conducted, identify potential problem areas, and take corrective action.'

'With improved oversight, NIH may have been able to take more timely corrective actions to mitigate the inherent risks associated with this type of research,' the report added.

While the lab leak theory was initially dismissed as conspiracy and xenophobic, a growing number of scientists have come around to the idea the virus may have escaped during an accident at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

The research facility is less than 10 miles from an animal slaughter market where the first series of human cases were clustered. Some experts also claim Covid's unique spike protein, which it uses to infect people, shows hallmarks of engineering.

But others have deemed those scenarios unlikely and say that there is some indirect evidence that Covid did jump from animals at the Huanan Seafood Market, where animals known to harbor Covid including raccoon dogs, hedgehogs, rats and squirrels, were kept in squalid conditions.

Direct evidence for a natural or man-made origin has not been publicized.
Big Bear saw 45 inches of snow in 72 hours over the weekend

On a consistent livestream over the eagle's nest, the two birds - Jackie and Shadow - are seen perched over several eggs waiting to hatch

Two bald eagles in Big Bear, California are currently waiting for eggs to hatch

Two bald eagles in Big Bear, California are currently sitting and waiting for their eggs two eggs to hatch while keeping them warm after 45 inches of snow fell in just 72 hours over the weekend.

The infamous birds - Jackie and Shadow - were spotted on the nonstop eagle cam run by the Friends of Big Bear Valley as they have been hunkering down and waiting for their new arrivals.

The new bald eagles are expected to arrive at any minute and the expectant parents want to be there to keep the birds warm when they hatch.

'This year we haven't had this much snow for this many days,' said Sandy Steers, executive director of the Friends of Big Bear Valley.

The anticipation over the new arrivals has led to massive turnout in livestream viewers, with 15,000 people watching the eagles at one point.

Two bald eagles in California are currently sitting and waiting for their eggs two eggs to hatch while keeping them warm after 45 inches of snow fell in just 72 hours over the weekend

Jackie first laid the eggs in January and viewers have been tuning in ever since.

Steers did express slight concern as the eggs are now at 44 and 47 days, respectively.

Jackie's previous eggs, according to the executive director who spoke with the Los Angeles Times, had hatched around 30 days.

It's unclear what may have gone wrong, if anything.

At one point, both Jackie and Shadow had left the nest and the eggs unattended.

The reasoning for their departure is unclear but Steers said it could have been a predator in the area or another eagle nearby.

The pair returned and have resumed their waiting.

'We don't know if that changed anything,' she said, 'but now they're fully reinvested in incubating the eggs.'

According to Steers, the unexpectedly high number of viewers was the most the group had ever seen.

The executive director said many have also reached out to express their concerns over the cold temperatures the area is seeing.

Steers, however, said no one should be worried.

'They're really built for that,' she said.

The eagles have more than 7,000 waterproof feathers that keep their bodies warm in cold, wind, rain, and snow.

These are Jackie and Shadow, California's infamous bald eagles who reside in Big Bear

Jackie (seen here) was spotted on the nonstop eagle cam run by the Friends of Big Bear Valley as they have been hunkering down and waiting for their new arrivals

These are the two unhatched eggs in the eagle's nest in Big Bear

The expectant parents have been spotted taking shifts watching over the eggs

Big Bear officials are a bit concerned because Jackie's previous eggs have hatched around 30 days while these eggs are nearing 45 days of development

Parts of Southern California saw snow for the first time in years

Steers says she still has hopes the eggs will hatch and tries to keep the faith for others tuning in to the livestream.

'What we do is try to find good feelings and solace from watching the eagles and how they take it,' she said.

The Big Bear Valley team will continue to monitor the eagles and their eggs until they hatch.

'They don't give up,' Steers said of the birds.
The bone was found by a team led by divers Don Gann and Christopher Ogden

Steppe Bison lived alongside wooly mammoths in the region of Alaska where the bones allegedly dumped by the Museum of Natural History originated

Divers hunting for lost woolly mammoth bones in New York City's East River have finally made a discovery - uncovering what is believed to be the jawbone of a long-extinct steppe bison.

Crews have been scanning the river after records surfaced suggesting the American Museum of Natural History dumped thousands of mammoth bones there in the 1940s when it ran out of storage space. If recovered, the bones could be worth thousands.

Over the weekend, a team led by Don Gann, 35, and Christopher Ogden emerged from the water with their first discovery - the jawbone of an animal that went extinct some 10,000 years ago.

Though not a tusk or bone from an actual mammoth, the discovery of the 10-inch pre-historic jawbone - if authenticated - could corroborate claims about the bone dump, which the museum has refuted as untrue.

Steppe bison lived alongside wooly mammoths thousands of years ago in the same Alaskan region where the allegedly dumped bones are said to have originated.

Christopher Ogden carries what is believed to be the jawbone of a steppe bison

The remains of the possible steppe bison jawbone measured ten-inches in length

The search was sparked in late December after gold miner turned bone hunter John Reeves appeared on Joe Rogan's podcast and said he wanted to kick off a 'bone rush,' and mapped out the location of tons of mammoth tusks that could be at the bottom of the East River.

Reeves read from a draft report from the Fairbanks mining District Alaska, which detailed the transportation of thousands tusks from Fairbanks bound for the museum of natural history in the forties.

'They took 500,000 or so bones from Fairbanks to New York City, left them in the crates... they took about a whole box carload of these bones they ran out of storage and they dumped them in the East River,' he said.

The report specified that 100,000 of the bones were shipped directly to the museum, and that they were eventually dumped at East River Drive and 65th Street.

'If any of you guys want to go out and find some bones I'll tell you exactly where the f*** they're at,' Reeves said as he spelled out the location. 'They're finders keepers.'

Wooly mammoth Tusks can go for around $20,000 each depending on their condition.

'You got to remember this was in 1928 to 1958,' Reeves told Rogan. 'People, you know miners, didn't collect the bones.'

According to the report about the tusks, 'mistakes' were made over the 'acceptable condition' of the bones shipped to New York.

Divers Don Gann (left), Stephen Cortes (center) and Christopher Ogden (right) hold the bone

Steppe Bison lived alongside wooly mammoth and went extinct around 10,000 years ago

The bones of a steppe bison. The animals lived in the same region where the allegedly dumped mammoth bones are said to have originated from

The Museum of Natural History said it had no records of the bones being dumped, or the report saying they were.

'We do not have any record of the disposal of these fossils in the East River, nor have we been able to find any record of this report in the museum's archives or other scientific sources,' the museum said in a statement, according to the New York Post.

Nonetheless, teams like Gann's have taken to the river to test their luck.

Gann, who starred in the first episode of Discovery's 'Sewer Divers,' said he was not shocked by the revelation given that he and his friends have found all sorts of old treasures and even human bodies at the bottom of the East River.

Although he's excited by the prospect of finding the mammoth tusks, which can go for around $20,000 a piece, he warned that the search could get out of hand quickly as more and more people show up to survey the waters.

'I expect someone will find something soon, and itll cause a commotion and get a bunch more people down here,' Gann predicted. 'Itll snowball from there and its going to end when someone gets killed or injured'

'And at that point, officials are going to have to shut the whole thing down.'

Gann, who has nine years of experience diving, said he's always finding things in the East River, from cannonballs to copper to quartz. He said he has found three human bodies while diving there, with Cortes finding eight.

'Today we found a whole truck down there,' he said in January. 'You really find all kinds of stuff down there.

The possible steppe bison jawbone divers found in the East River

Wooly mammoth bone expert John Reeves said the tusks were dumped by 'mistake' along the East River Drive near 65th Street

Although he said the prospect of finding tusks would be exciting, he warned amateurs that the trip could be more than they bargained for if they're not properly equipped.

Since they're all pros, Gann said his ship was properly equipped to allow his team to stay safe and warm while surveilling the bottom of the East River.

'I wouldnt recommend this to just anyone,' he warned. 'Especially diving with just scuba gear. You need proper equipment.'

He added that the race was on to be the first to discover the tusks allegedly in the river, and should his team find it, it would likely propel Gan to greater fame.

He was the focus of the first episode of 'Sewer Divers,' which premiered this Sunday as a film crew following the lives of those who explore centuries-old sewer systems across the country.
Convicted fraudster Elizabeth Holmes has allegedly given birth to her second child, as she again asks a federal judge to delay her looming 11-year jail sentence.

Holmes, 39, was convicted of wire fraud last year when a jury in San Jose found that she deceived investors into sinking more than $945million into her faulty blood testing machines.

She is set to begin her prison sentence on April 27, but she and her legal team are now trying to postpone that date until the appeals process is finished - noting in court documents that Holmes is a 'mother of two young children.'

The former entrepreneur had given birth to her first child while awaiting trial in July 2021, and was pictured at her sentencing hearing in November with another noticeable baby bump.

She was accused at the time of getting pregnant in an attempt to 'get less prison time,' as Judge Edward Davila delayed her incarceration until the end of April.

Elizabeth Holmes' attorneys are seeking to get her prison sentence delayed pending her appeals process, recent court filings show

They note that Holmes is the 'mother of two young children.' She had previously given birth to a son in July 2021. They are pictured here with her fiance Billy Evans

Holmes became pregnant at some point between her January 2022 conviction and her sentencing 10 months later.

Her pregnancy was confirmed by her fiance Billy Evans in a November court filing and she was pictured later in the month with a noticeable baby bump at her sentencing hearing.

Now, a court document seen by DailyMail.com says she is 'the mother of two very young children' as defense attorneys argue her imprisonment should be delayed until her appeal is complete.

DailyMail.com has reached out to her attorneys for comment.

Prosecutors argue that Holmes poses a flight risk and should not be allowed to remain free past the day she is due to go to prison.

They claim that Holmes had tried to flee the country to Mexico on a one-way ticket after her conviction, and she only canceled the trip after a prosecutor contacted her lawyer about the ticket.

Her fiance Billy Evans flew to Mexico, not returning to the United States for nearly six weeks, before once again flying to South Africa.

Defense attorneys, though, fired back, arguing that the prosecution 'recklessly and incorrectly' alleged she sought to escape accountability.

They said in a court filing on February 23 that before Holmes was convicted she had hoped to be acquitted, and wanted to attend the wedding of close friends in Mexico in late January 2022.

'Once the verdict was issued, Ms. Holmes did not intend to make her trip,' the lawyers contend.

US District Judge Edward Davila sentenced Holmes in November to an 11-year prison sentence beginning on April 27

She had a noticeable baby bump at the sentencing as she walked with Billy Evans

They said Evans, who described himself as her fiance for the first time in a declaration, returned to the US through Tijuana four days after he flew to Mexico, before flying to South Africa three weeks later on a two-week trip.

The defense attorneys also argued that prosecutors improperly implied that because Evans is paying for their living expenses, Holmes can easily flee.

'The government implies that Ms. Holmes has access to some secret source of funds, when it knows from the extensive information Ms. Holmes and Mr. Evans voluntarily provided to probation that she does not,' they argue.

Holmes became pregnant with her first child before her criminal fraud trial was set to begin

'There is nothing untoward about Mr. Evans paying for the living expenses of his children and partner. If the government is suggesting that Ms. Holmes association with others with financial means makes her a flight risk, that argument baselessly assumes that others will commit a federal crime by assisting flight.

And the defense attorneys questioned why prosecutors waited until December to make their claim, despite knowing about the Mexico booking for a year.

In response, prosecutors noted that Holmes failed to explain that the ticket was only for a one-way trip.

'Noticeably absent from [Holmes'] filing is a declaration from the person whose mental state matters [Holmes] herself  asserting that she did not intend to, nor attempt to, flee in January 2022.'

Prosecutors argue in court documents that Holmes' prison sentence should not be delayed because she is a flight risk, citing a one-way ticket she had bought to Mexico

At some point between her January 2022 conviction and her sentencing 10 months later, Holmes became pregnant with her second child. Her first child is pictured here

US District Judge Davila ordered Holmes to surrender to authorities in April to serve 11 years and three month in prison, after which she will be placed under three years of supervised released.

Legal experts said at the time Davila likely imposed the delay in her incarceration so she could give birth before her imprisonment.

In the aftermath, former FOX News host Megyn Kelly claimed on her podcast that Holmes had become pregnant on purpose, hoping the baby bump would gain her more sympathy at the sentencing hearing.

'I hate to agree with the Twitter mob, but they're angry about the pregnancy, suggesting she did that [on purpose],' Kelly said on her SiriusXM podcast the Megyn Kelly Show, when discussing Holmes' 11-year prison sentence.

Kelly then went on to say she understands 'the theory she did that for sympathy.

'She did that intentionally on the gamble that the judge would say, "I won't throw the book at you for the sake of this child."'

But now, Kelly said, 'that child is going to be without its mother for the first 11 years of his or her life.'

At the time, Holmes' attorneys had been petitioning Davila to sentence her to only 18 months of house arrest  even though federal guidelines would have her serve 11 to 14 years in prison for duping investors.

'Think about that,' Kelly told her guest. 'You know that you're likely to go to prison, you know the odds of getting 18 months' house arrest are nil. No one's going to get that who committed these crimes and got convicted of them.

'I just don't understand. You get pregnant anyway?' she asked, rhetorically, noting: 'I, too, feel angry about it.

'I don't want to presume the motives, but the whole situation is a disaster.'

Her guest on the show, author Vivek Ramaswamy, then suggested Holmes 'was game playing in terms of getting pregnant, trying to win sympathy points.'

Holmes founded Theranos in 2003, and dropped out of Stanford the next year as she raised money for her new blood testing device

Holmes founded Theranos in 2003, and dropped out of Stanford the next year as she raised money for her new blood testing device.

She repeatedly claimed that the company's new testing device could scan for hundreds of diseases and other problems with a few drops of blood taken with a finger prick, instead of a needle stuck in a vein.

The results, she claimed, could come within a matter of minutes.

The concept was so compelling that Theranos and Holmes were able to raise more than $900 million, some of that from billionaire investors such as media magnate Rupert Murdoch and software titan Larry Ellison.

The Palo Alto, California, company also negotiated potentially lucrative deals with major retailers Walgreens and Safeway. Holmes soon began to grace national magazine covers as a wunderkind.

At Theranos' height, Holmes had amassed a fortune of $4.5 billion on paper and was being lionized as a visionary on cover stories in business magazines.

But unbeknownst to most people outside Theranos, the company's blood-testing technology was flawed, often producing inaccurate results that could have endangered the lives of patients who took the tests.

After the flaws were exposed by the Wall Street Journal in 2015 and 2016, Theranos eventually collapsed. The Justice Department filed its criminal case in 2018.

Her trial was then postponed several times, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and Holmes's pregnancy.

She gave birth to a boy in July in Redwood City, California - her first child, with San Diego hotel heir Billy Evans, who often accompanied her to trial alongside her mother, Noel Holmes.

She was ultimately found guilty last year on four counts of conspiracy and wire fraud for duping investors out of millions of dollars.

But the jury also acquitted her on four charges and could not reach a verdict on three others.

She gained notoriety for the device, which she claimed could scan for hundreds of diseases and other problems with a few drops of blood taken with a finger prick, instead of a needle stuck in a vein

Holmes is pictured at her months-long trial in which she claimed she believed the claims she made about Theranos' miniLab and did not find out until it was too late that it did not work as promised and was misled by her partner Sunny Balwani

During the trial, jurors heard testimony from former Theranos employees who said they left the company after witnessing problems with its technology.

Investors testified that Holmes made misleading claims about Theranos, such as that its machines were being used in the field by the U.S. military.

Former patients also told jurors that they would not have used Theranos' tests if they had known the tests were flawed.

Prosecutors said that if Holmes been truthful with investors and patients, the venture never would have attracted critical funding and revenue.

'She chose fraud over business failure. She chose to be dishonest,' Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Schenk said at the start of closing arguments.

'That choice was not only callous, it was criminal.'

The defense, meanwhile, rested much of their case on Holmes' own testimony.

She said she believed the claims she made about Theranos' miniLab and did not find out until it was too late that it did not work as promised.

Holmes's lawyer Kevin Downey also told the jury that Holmes didn't realize the scope of the problems with the miniLab until a Theranos laboratory director informed her in March 2016 that the company had to invalidate 60,000 of its past blood tests.

He likened Holmes' final days at the company to a captain valiantly trying to save a sinking ship, and said that if she had committed any crimes, she would have been scurrying to jump overboard like a scared rat, Downey, told jurors as he wrapped up roughly five hours of closing arguments.

But not only did she never sell a share, Downey said, she continued to try to salvage the company.

Her turnaround efforts included ousting Theranos' chief operating officer, Sunny Balwani, who also had been her lover.

He was also sentenced in December to nearly 13 years in prison for fraud and conspiracy.
King Charles has met Ursula von der Leyen at Windsor Castle after she agreed a new Brexit deal with Rishi Sunak - amid a clash between the palace and No10 over the 'constitutionally unwise' meeting.

The royal warmly shook hands with the European Commission President during an audience at Windsor Castle this afternoon.

The meeting came less than two hours after she signed off on changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol at a five-star hotel four miles from His Majesty's Berkshire home.

Mr Sunak has today been accused of 'antagonising' Unionists in Northern Ireland and Brexiteers, with Buckingham Palace insisting the Windsor Castle meeting was called on 'Government advice'.

But the PM's official spokesman later said that the decision was 'fundamentally' one for Buckingham Palace, adding Mr Sunak 'firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions.

King Charles III shook hands with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen during an audience at Windsor Castle

The royal received the European Commission president at WIndsor Castle today

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently'.

Jacob Rees-Mogg has insisted the meeting should not go ahead, claiming: 'It antagonises the people the PM needs to conciliate. It is constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

Former DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. It's crass and will go down very badly in NI.

'We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf'.

Royal commentator Peter Hunt said of the meeting: 'This is a very serious error of judgment by King Charles and his advisers.'

The former BBC royal correspondent added: "He's abandoned his unifying role and entered the political fray, in a foolish bid to be seen as statesmanlike. History won't be kind. Someone's head will roll.'

Rishi Sunak (left today) has been accused of dragging King Charles III into politics with the monarch meeting EU chief Ursula von der Leyen at Windsor Castle today

The plan to meet the King did not go down well with some Unionists, including former DUP leader Arlene Foster

Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen as they agreed a new Brexit deal in Windsor today

The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen have held 'final talks' in Windsor on Monday before the breakthrough was announced at around 2.30pm. And now it has emerged that King Charles will also meet her at his Berkshire castle for afternoon tea on a highly politically sensitive day for the country.

Buckingham Palace said: 'The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Government's advice that he should do so.' A broad range of issues will discussed including climate change and Ukraine. Brexit may also come up, but Mr Sunak will not be there.

Ms von der Leyen arrived in London by Eurostar this morning and said she is 'looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend', ahead of her meeting with the PM and the King.

Responding to Foster tweet, PM's spokesman said: 'There will be a range of views. With regard to Ms von der Leyen meeting the King, that is fundamentally a matter for the palace.'

ERG member and Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg said today the meeting with the King would be a mistake. The former Cabinet minister Mr Rees-Mogg said: 'It is surprising that The King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the PM needs to conciliate'.

He also told GB News: 'I think the sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted.

'The King gives assent to Acts of Parliament when Parliament has agreed, he doesn't express his view on Acts of Parliament when they are going through the process.

'I think the same applies, that His Majesty should not be involved until there is full support for this agreement.'

The PM and EU commission president have finalised the Northern Ireland package, the culmination of months of painstaking negotiations, after talks in Windsor.

Cabinet will now be briefed on the agreement, before the pair hold a press conference.

Downing Street has hailed 'significant and far reaching' concessions, and there are bombshell rumours this afternoon that the DUP is ready to shift position and accept the agreement.

The reports come despite the unionists having set red lines that looked very difficult to meet - including completely removing the role of the European Court of Justice. Having the DUP on board would pave the way for the restoration of powersharing at Stormont.

Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson played down the claims in the Irish News, tweeting: 'Well take our time to consider the detail and measure a deal against our seven tests.'

In other positive noises for Mr Sunak, Northern Ireland minister and self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker - who has been on 'resignation watch' over the past few days - said this afternoon that the government is on the verge of a 'fantastic' deal.

Mr Sunak could still face a rough ride from Tories when he makes a statement to the Commons this evening.

Allies of Mr Sunak are waiting nervously to see how Boris Johnson will react to the revised terms.

Meanwhile, the government is facing a furious backlash for dragging the King into the political pressure-cooker - as Charles will meet Ms von der Leyen separately this afternoon during her visit.

The Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen (pictured striding through St Pancras today) met to agree a deal today

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker was in Downing Street again today, amid rumours that whips have put him on 'resignation watch'

Mr Sunak tweeted ahead of the meeting with Ms von der Leyen

Jeffrey Donaldson tried to cool claims the DUP is ready to back the PM's Brexit deal for NI

Former Cabinet minister Nadine Dorries dismissed the warm words from Mr Baker

Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

Sir Jeffrey said before the announcement: 'I'm neither positive nor negative. I think we need to take time to look at the deal, what's available, and how does that match our seven tests.'

What could Rishi's new Brexit deal for NI include? Brussels is thought to have agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU Mr Sunak is believed to have secured a package that removes single market rules from 90 per cent of products made in Northern Ireland, as long as they are not bound for the EU. Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say and consultation with London. In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU. In what could be a crucial win, Mr Sunak appears to have persuaded the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do. Advertisement

Tory Eurosceptics were largely keeping their powder dry this morning.

But Mr Baker moved to quash rumours he will quit after another bout of talks in No10.

He told broadcasters: 'I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.'

In a round of interviews this morning, Jacob Rees-Mogg did not rule out backing the plan, but suggested Mr Sunak will fail to win over the DUP.

The ex-Cabinet minister told ITV's Good Morning Britain: 'There are two things we need to know: one is what the DUP thinks, because the protocol itself sets out in its first article that it is subsidiary to the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement.

'So, if the DUP doesn't think that it meets test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs.

'I'm afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say 'we need to see the legal text', they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.'

Ms von der Leyen is also holding talks with King Charles during her visit to Windsor.

That has caused a wave of anger among DUP and Eurosceptic figures that the monarch is being dragged into the contentious politics of Brexit.

Buckingham Palace seemed to point the finger at ministers by saying the government had advised that the King should meet the visiting dignitary.

Ex-DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one.

'It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.'

Mr Rees-Mogg said was 'constitutionally unwise' for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen around the signing of the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: 'It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

'It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

The PM's official spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes 'fundamentally' the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

'He firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions,' the official said.

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today.'

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, the spokesman said: 'There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant occasions, this is no different.'

Downing Street has stressed that there are still substantive issues for the PM and Ms von der Leyen to address this afternoon, although they are thought to have tied up the main elements in talks by phone yesterday.

Irish deputy leader Micheal Martin has said that European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen's visit to London is a sign of 'very significant and substantial progress' in protocol negotiations between the UK and EU.

'I think we'll leave it to both the President of the Commission and the British Prime Minister to announce whatever has to be announced this afternoon, but I think it's clear that very significant progress has been made,' he told RTE Radio.

'Over the last number of months, trust did build up between the two parties. Very substantial and serious negotiations have taken place in fairly significant detail, working up fairly substantive papers.'

Mr Martin said the customs data agreement struck earlier this year was a 'gamechanger' that 'facilitated a new fresh approach to that issue'.

The foreign affairs minister said the primary concerns that have been articulated by unionism in particular  include the bureaucratic barriers to goods being sent from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, the 'democratic deficit' on what input Northern Ireland would have on any future EU regulations, and state aid issues  had been heard.

'All of these issues, I think, have been responded to. I think the European Union has listened,' he said.

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak chat as they go into the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel today

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan (left) and Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden (right) were in Downing Street for the Cabinet meeting this afternoon

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt was at the Cabinet discussion to sign off the deal today

What is the Brexit row about and what has been the impact on Northern Ireland? The UK and the EU have been engaged in intense negotiations over the workings of the Northern Ireland Protocol of the original withdrawal agreement that allowed the UK to leave the EU. It was designed to ensure the free movement of goods across the Irish land border with Ulster after Brexit. Rather than being an internal EU line between two countries, with Brexit it became a border between the bloc and a third party country with different customs and trade rules. In any other cases it would be solved simply by creating a 'hard' border - physical checks on vehicles and people travelling between the two. But the Good Friday Agreement, which ended decades of violence in 1998, expressly prohibits a return to such checkpoints on the island of Ireland. To get around this the protocol instead created economic barriers on trade being shipped from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. It has proven to be deeply unpopular with unionists, who claim it has weakened Northern Ireland's place within the UK. Last year the DUP collapsed the powersharing institutions at Stormont in protest at the arrangements. It came as the party was replaced as the largest in the powersharing government by Sinn Fein for the first time. And the DUP is refusing to back a deal and restart powersharing unless their concerns are realised. They have set seven tests that it must pass to be approved. Advertisement

Mr Sunak has said the deal 'will show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job', adding: 'This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

'It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.'

The package is expected to include a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply in the province.

The PM held private talks in No 10 with Mr Baker yesterday in a sign of concern about resignations, while a survey by the grass-roots Conservative Home website found Tory activists oppose the idea of Mr Sunak's plan by 41 per cent to 36.

Former Brexit minister Lord Frost has urged the PM to revive the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, saying it was vital to be 'really tough' with Brussels.

The European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs has said it will establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to examine whether the new deal meets their sovereignty tests.

Meanwhile, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said it was a 'red line' for his party that 'there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK'.

Cabinet ministers, who will be formally briefed on the plans this afternoon, were last night ringing round Conservative MPs to shore up support.

Mr Sunak is expected to unveil the details in a statement to Parliament this afternoon.

However, there has been concern that MPs have not yet been guaranteed a vote on the deal.

Some are concerned that they have been left in the dark during talks.

One MP claimed Downing Street had kept them out of the loop to 'set everything up' and present the deal as 'a fait accompli'.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

No10 has been warned that rebels will force an indicative vote whether they want one or not.

The PM will tell MPs that his deal will secure Northern Ireland's place in the Union and protect the future of the Good Friday Agreement.

It is expected to lead to the scrapping of a barrage of EU checks on goods sent to the province from the rest of the UK, which have caused major problems for businesses and families, and led to unionist fears that Northern Ireland could be forced out of the UK.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said Mr Sunak was 'on the cusp' of a deal that would result in the 'substantial scaling back' of the role of the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland.

Mr Raab said the deal would mark a 'paradigm shift' in relations and 'would be very good news for the communities of Northern Ireland and I think for the Good Friday Agreement as well'.

Ministers are optimistic that they can win over most Eurosceptic Tory MPs with a deal which Mr Raab said would 'properly and fully get Brexit done' and open the door to warmer relations with the EU.

But senior figures in the DUP warned that they were not yet convinced the deal would deliver enough to persuade them to re-enter power-sharing in Northern Ireland, a key objective of the PM.
A Wisconsin couple who met in line at a McDonald's - while ordering a Quarter Pounder with cheese and fries - have celebrated their 27th anniversary at the same restaurant.

Cindi and Mark Franceschina first locked eyes at the the McDonald's on Green Bay Road in Racine on February 9, 1996. Mark, who was aged 25 at the time, said was smitten by Cindi's dark hair and smile as the pair were standing on line.

After she got her order and bolted out the door, Mark followed her to where she was parked, eating her lunch. At that moment, he summoned the courage to ask her out on a date - and three years later, they wed.

Every year, the pair spend their anniversary lunch date at the same McDonald's - sharing fast food as they celebrate decades of wedded bliss. They even featured a Happy Meal at their wedding in 1999.

The couple - who share three children together - manage to pull it off, even if they have to divert to the drive-thru, as they did during the pandemic.

Earlier this month, the couple were treated by McDonald's, who decorated a table just for them with 27 long stem roses, and provided sweets and their favorite meal.

The couple - who act like newlyweds more than an old married couple- were as giddy as ever as Mark handed his love a bouquet of flowers and a big mac on the house and spoke of how smitten he was when he first met her

The couple were enjoying their cheese quarter pounder with fries and a soda as they celebrated 27 years of wedded bliss

The couple, pictured at their wedding in May 1999, had a Happy Meal at the altar

Come rain or shine, the couple manage to meet at noon February 9 - no excuse.

'There were years I was like 'Oh, he better show up. If he forgets! But we never have,' Cindi said. 'Without fail, we've both always showed up and had lunch without reminding each other of anything.'

The couple - who act like newlyweds more than an old married couple- were as giddy as ever as Mark handed his love a bouquet of flowers before they sat down to enjoy their anniversary meal.

They wed on May 30, 1999, and McDonald's even featured in their wedding ceremony.

Paying homage to where they first met, the pastor at the alter used the anecdote of the Happy Meal to explain how they'd spent the rest of their lives making one another content.

Cindi told DailyMail.com that when the pastor spoke about all the fun they would have in the relationship, Mark pulled out a beenie toy, which was inside the Happy Meal - which she still has to this day.

Mark had just moved to Wisconsin from Pennsylvania a few weeks prior to their first meeting. The lovebirds found themselves both ordering McDonald's for lunch just one day after his birthday.

Cindi playfully told DailyMail.com: 'I always joke that I was the best gift he ever had.'

Cindi told CBS 58 that though their orders may change over the years, their love for each other hasn't and continues to grow stronger.

The sweet lovebirds, pictured soon after their first meeting

The couple, Cindi and Mark Franceschina, meet at the McDonald's, located in Racine for their anniversary lunch date at noon on February 9. This year, McDonald's even gave the lovebirds a red-clothed table, red roses, and sweets

The happy couple - pictured after years of marriage. They have made it a tradition to always go back to the same McDonald's to celebrate the first day they locked eyes

The McDonald's on Green Bay Road, in Racine, Wisconsin

The couple - who act like newlyweds more than an old married couple- were as giddy as ever as Mark handed his love a bouquet of flowers before they sat down to enjoy their anniversary meal

Mark and Cindi pictured in a family photo. The pair have been married for 27 years

Mark rehashed the story of how he met his blushing bride.

He said Cindi was standing in line next to him on February 9, 1996, and he was immediately smitten by her beauty.

Cindi said that she normally goes through the drive-thru but, recalled the line going on for miles and decided to walk in and order her food in-person. On the same line, also waiting to place an order, was Mark.

He recalled, 'She said "Hi" then followed up the greeting with a smile.

'I was like "man...wow... she's beautiful,"' Mark said 'I have to talk to her.'

Cindi eventually left the restaurant and Mark grabbing his order and followed her. He was determined to see her again.

'Wherever she goes, I'm going to follow her,' he said. 'I don't care if she goes to Chicago, Milwaukee. Wherever she stops, I just have to stop and talk to her.'

The couple wed three years after first meeting in the McDonald's line

Cindi laughed: 'Some people swipe right. We just went to get fast food'

Images from their wedding day in the 1990s

The pair are still happily in love, and share three children

Mark finally did catch up with Cindi ,who was sitting in her parked car eating her Quarter Pounder and fries at a car wash. He approached her startling her, at first.

'I hadn't seen him pull in,' Cindi recalled. 'I was like 'Oh my gosh, this guy. Serial killer? I don't know. His amazing line, first words ever spoken to me were 'Hi, remember me?''

He ended up asking her if she would like to 'go out sometime.'

Cindi wasn't sure if Mark was joking and when they both discovered that they never did anything like that before they laughed, and than the pair exchanged numbers.

Mark joked that Cindi called him that night. He laughed, 'She couldn't wait.'

The rest is history.

Cindi laughed: 'Some people swipe right. We just went to get fast food.'

Mark added: 'The older we get, the more we laugh, the more we have fun.'

They hope their love story will help those inspire others.

'Commitment works. Relationships work if you work at it,' Mark said. 'If you put effort into it and choose to make it work.'
An 81-year-old San Antonio man who was mauled to death by a pack of dogs that included pit bulls has been pictured.

Ramon Najera had been trying to protect his wife, 74, from the beasts when they broke free from a yard on February 26 and killed him.

But Abilene Moreno, whose husband Christian Alexander owned the dogs, claimed he was not responsible and had taken care when raising the powerful breed.

Yet she did reveal that the dogs had attacked people twice before and were confiscated by the authorities before their kids begged them to take them back.

'We were coming back and I saw the dogs behind the gate but they were full of blood,' Moreno told local channel KENS5.

'It's traumatizing to see my dogs that I have raised since they were puppies do that to somebody.'

Ramon Najera, 81, was fatally mauled by a pack of dogs after getting out of a car with his 74-year-old wife in San Antonio, Texas. She was among three people that sustained non-fatal injuries in the attack

Abilene Moreno, the wife of the dog owner, said the couple were away when it happened but that they were horrified

'From the bottom of our hearts, we're sorry but my husband is not responsible,' Abilene Moreno said, claiming they did everything they could to keep the dogs - King, Snow and Legend - from escaping.

Her husband Christian, 31, was charged with attack by dangerous dog causing death and injury to an elderly person, both felonies.

Moreno said she was trying to raise the money to have him released on bail - his bond was set at $125,000.

When the two arrived home on Friday afternoon they saw their dogs were out of their harnesses and were told by first responders that their dogs had attacked four people and killed one.

His wife described how the dogs could be a handful, that they had escaped before and that the family wanted to ride them.

The dogs had ben involved in two recent attacks, one involving King and two involving Snow. Despite that she said they had not been raised to be aggressive.

'We never hit them, neglect them, never abused them,' she said.

After the attacks last month the dogs were temporarily confiscated by Animal Care Services.

Moreno claims she nor her husband wanted the dogs back, but that their children did. 'I was like, these dogs aren't for us anymore,' she said.

The grandchildren of Najera and his wife Janie shared a tribute to their grandfather and created a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral costs and medical bills for their grandmother's injuries.

'Ramon was a San Antonio native, a US Air Force veteran, and an adventurous, outgoing, and loving family man,' they wrote. 'He was recently put on dialysis but was determined to enjoy life to the fullest despite his health condition.'

Carlos Gomez, Ramon's stepson and Janie's son, said on Facebook that his stepfather was a 'strong man' he was getting ready start working as a security guard, despite his age.

'He was getting ready to start back up at his security job which is the reason they were stopping at a seamstress. My stepdad was having some work done on his uniform when they were viciously attacked by these dogs,' he wrote.

Firefighters were forced to use pickaxes and metal poles to fight off the savage animals

After more than one attack last months the dogs were temporarily confiscated by Animal Care Services. Moreno claims she nor her husband (both pictured) wanted the dogs back, but that their children did

Christian Alexander Moreno, 31, is pictured being arrested after his pet pit bulls mauled an 81 year-old man to death close to his home in San Antonio, Texas

The attack occurred along 2800 block of Depla Street, on the city's west side where Najeras and his wife were visiting friends. When they got out of their car, the couple were set upon by two American Staffordshire Terriers who had escaped their yard.

When the San Antonio Fire Department arrived on the scene at around 1.45pm, 'the dogs still actively attacking the couple and attempted to intervene,' the police said.

An EMS captain was bitten in the leg during the attempted rescue.

San Antonio Animal Care Services confirmed on Saturday that the dogs involved in the incident will both be put down. A third dog that was present but not involved will also be euthanized.

Firefighters arrived just after 1.45pm on Friday to what was described as a 'horrific' scene in which the man was being dragged by the animals as emergency services tried to intervene.

They were forced use their pickaxes to get the dogs and release their grip. Two other people including Najera's wife sustained non-fatal injuries, with one bit on the hand.

'As they rounded the corner they could see a man being dragged by a dog. He was completely bloodied before they got out of the truck,' San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood said at the scene.

Firefighters can be seen holding their metal pickaxes to force the animals away

Snow pictured with her puppies, 7 males and 2 females. Snow was involved in two attacks last month as well as the fatal attack last week

San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood said his staff were most likely traumatized by the gruesome scene

Emergency services are seen at the location of a fatal dog attack in which an 81-year-old man died

'This is not something that is normal for us. We don't normally have to defend patients from animals or ourselves. The firefighters in this instance were very heroic fighting off these pit bulls with pickaxes and pipes to try and get to the patients,' Hood said.

'Two people were mauled with a confirmed fatality who was treated and given blood on the scene, together with a female in critical condition. Another individual was bitten on the hand and also taken to the hospital.

'It has been a horrific scene and horrific experience for everyone involved including firefighters which was essentially a rescue to save themselves,' Hood said.

A San Antonio Fire Captain who arrived on scene was also bitten in the leg during the attack. Hood said that the entire experience had likely 'emotionally scarred' the firefighters. 'Nobody expects to go out and fight dogs in a situation like they did today,' he said.

Both women who were attacked were taken to University Hospital for treatment. One was in critical condition after the attack but her current state is not known.

Shannon Wade Sims, the director of Animal Care Services in San Antonio, says the dogs were American Staffordshire dogs. ACS officers responded soon after and took all of the dogs involved and placed them in quarantine kennels, where they will remain until further notice.
He knocked on the soldier's door at 1am asking for a vape charger

A British Army Sergeant scared a young female soldier by barging into her bedroom at 1am, touching her bottom and trying to kiss her, a court martial heard.

'Really drunk' Sergeant Charlie Wainwright allegedly stumbled into the woman's room asking to use a vape charger.

He then allegedly touched her leg and bottom before trying to kiss her twice.

She told him she wasn't interested and ushered him out of her room.

The 'very uncomfortable' junior soldier went for a cigarette and saw him back by her block moments later.

Sergeant Charlie Wainwright, pictured, allegedly stumbled into a young soldier's room asking to use a vape charger. He then allegedly touched her leg and bottom before trying to kiss her twice

He denied one charge of sexual assault and another of conduct prejudicial to good order at a Bulford Military court hearing

The woman, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said she ran back to her room and locked her door.

She claimed Sgt Wainwright then started knocking at her dorm and tried to get in again.

Since the incident at Baker Barracks, Thorney Island, Hants, each flat door has been equipped with 'barcode locks' in order to improve security.

Sgt Wainwright, of the 12th Regiment Royal Artillery, denied one charge of sexual assault and another of conduct prejudicial to good order.

Opening the case, prosecutor Captain Daniel Lawlor told Bulford Military Court, Wilts, Sgt Wainwright had entered junior ranks' accommodation that night 'without invitation' and had caused 'particular alarm'.

Describing the incident he said: 'He caused a disturbance, asking for a vape charger.

'Eventually the guardroom had to be telephoned and Sgt Wainwright escorted and doors locked.

'The Crown say things turned a little more sinister that night.

'He was asking for a vape charger when he came across [the complainant].

'She was lying down and she will say the Sergeant touched her leg and tried to kiss her and as she put her dressing gown on to cover her nightie - he grabbed her bottom.

'The Crown say she had given clear visual cues she was not consenting.

'Sgt Wainwright returned to her room and tried the locked door before going to other rooms.'

Cpt Lawlor described it as an 'opportunistic sexual assault and added: 'He denies the charges against him, and says he neither touched her leg nor bottom or tried to kiss her and says this does not amount to a service disciplinary offence.'

Giving evidence, the first woman said there had been 'no contact at all' between herself and Sgt Wainwright that evening, and that she had been to the gym and had dinner.

'I went to bed around 10.30pm,' she said.

'Around 1am, he woke me. He opened my door and turned my main bedroom light on. I immediately woke up.

'He walked towards me, asking for a vape charger and then sat down on my bed.

'He continued to talk to me about the mess-do he had been to. He was very drunk - he had stumbled through my door and I could smell the alcohol on his breath.'

She told the court he 'didn't leave' her room, even when the conversation had finished.

'As I sat up a little bit more, he touched my leg, which was covered by the blanket,' she continued.

'As that happened, I shifted up as I felt really, really uncomfortable and then he tried to kiss me. I immediately turned away and told him no.'

The woman said that after this, she shifted away from him on the bed and told him she was going for a cigarette, in order to try to get him to leave.

'As I got up to put my dressing gown on, he touched me on the bum,' she added.

'I felt like I had to leave my room in order for him to leave.'

Sgt Wainwright allegedly then tried to kiss the young woman again before eventually leaving her room.

She told the court she went outside and rang a friend to tell her what had happened and then saw Sgt Wainwright outside her block.

'I ran back up to my room and locked the door,' she said.

'He was knocking on my door trying to open my door handle but he couldn't because I had locked it.'

The court heard the 'shaken' and 'scared' woman reported the incident to her chain of command the next morning.

The court heard Sgt Wainwright tried to get into the rooms of several other soldiers in his hunt for a vape charger, and one said he was 'asking me about my motorbike' during his 2am visit.

Sgt Wainwright, who lives off camp, apologised to several of them the following day, the hearing was told.

While one male soldier accepted the apology, a female soldier said: 'He was trying to say sorry, but I didn't really know what to say.

'It was a bit of an awkward situation.'

The trial continues.
Christopher Gill, Sibusiso Moyo and Majeeb Rehman on trial after gun was found

Police seized a sub-machine gun manufactured using a 3D printer, believed to be the first of its kind found in the UK.

The fully functional gun carried the words live free or die and featured an image of an arm holding a sword with blood dripping from it, Sheffield Crown Court was told.

The firearm was handed to the jury to inspect. Prosecutor Stephen Wood KC told them: Please dont pull the trigger or move any of the parts.

A police officer had inspected the FGC-9 Luger carbine and it was safe to examine, they were assured.

Christopher Gill, 35, Sibusiso Moyo, 41, and Majeeb Rehman, 46, are on trial after police found the loaded gun in a stationary BMW car near the outskirts of Bradford, West Yorkshire, in May last year.

Police seized a sub-machine gun manufactured using a 3D printer, believed to be the first of its kind found in the UK

Another partially assembled gun, also created on a 3D printer, was found in Gills attic at his home in the city, the court heard.

Mr Wood told the jury that a trained police officer who later inspected the 3D-printed Luger carbine said hed never seen such a weapon before.

He said Rehman was caught red-handed transporting the weapon.

Andre Horne, firearms and ballistics expert, told the court that most of the FGC-9, 9mm Luger carbine recovered from Rehmans car had been produced on a 3D printer.

He said other parts had been homemade, while the court also heard it was successfully test-fired using a 9mm cartridge.

Moyos DNA matched swabs taken from seized items, and Mr Wood said that he was intimately involved in the manufacturing process. The main part of the gun found at the house was also 3D printed, the court heard.

Christopher Gill, 35, Sibusiso Moyo, 41, and Majeeb Rehman, 46, are on trial after police found the loaded gun in a stationary BMW car near the outskirts of Bradford, West Yorkshire, in May last year

Moyo, of Hull, and Gill, of Bradford, denied conspiracy to manufacture prohibited firearms and having a prohibited weapon for sale or transfer. The pair along with Rehman of Bradford all deny conspiracy to transfer a prohibited firearm and possessing ammunition with a firearms certificate.

Moyo denies possessing an identity document with improper intention.

This is a case all about manufacture and transfer of prohibited weapons. By prohibited weapons I mean sub-machine guns, Mr Wood said.

The Crown say that defendants Moyo and Gill were involved in the manufacture of these weapons and that on one occasion, the defendant Rehman was caught red-handed transporting such a weapon, loaded with functioning bulleted cartridges, which he had been given by Gill.

The case continues.
Rep. Lee Jae-myung, bottom, head of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea, asserts the injustice of the prosecution's request for parliamentary consent on his arrest on a series of corruption charges during a plenary session of the National Assembly in Seoul prior to a parliamentary vote on a bill regarding the matter, Feb. 27. Yonhap



The National Assembly on Monday voted narrowly to reject the government's request for consent to arrest opposition leader Lee Jae-myung over corruption charges.



The motion was voted down 139-138 with nine abstentions and 11 deemed invalid.



The result, though in line with widespread views that Lee's main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) would use its majority power to reject the request, came as a surprise as it means some DPK lawmakers cast dissenting votes for Lee's arrest.



The DPK, which holds 169 seats in the 299-member National Assembly, has denounced the prosecution's attempt to arrest Lee as political revenge by President Yoon Suk Yeol against his presidential election rival.



By law, parliamentary consent is necessary to arrest a lawmaker while parliament is in session.



Prosecutors had earlier sought an arrest warrant for Lee over development corruption and bribery allegations arising from his time as the mayor of Seongnam, south of Seoul, from 2010-18. It marked the first time that an arrest warrant was sought for the head of the country's largest opposition party.



Lee has claimed his innocence, rejecting all allegations against him as fabrication.



The ruling People Power Party has urged Lee to give up his immunity from arrest and show up for a court hearing on the arrest warrant. It has criticized the DPK for opening temporary parliamentary sessions to protect its leader from arrest.



Prosecutors are widely expected to indict the opposition leader without detention, as parliament's rejection of the motion will lead to the automatic dismissal of the prosecution's arrest warrant request against him. (Yonhap)


A doctor has described the moment he encountered nurse Lucy Letby 'making no effort to help' as a baby's oxygen level began to plunge.

The infant girl's mother told the Lucy Letby trial today how she later watched her three-day-old baby girl die in her husband's arms.

The nurse is said to have deliberately dislodged the baby's breathing tube just moments before consultant Dr Ravi Jayaram walked into the nursery room.

Letby, 33, was working a night shift at the Countess of Chester Hospitals neo-natal unit in February 2016 when the alleged attack took place, Manchester Crown Court heard.

The infant, Baby K, was born at 2.12am and brought into the unit because of her extreme prematurity, weighting just 1lb 8oz (692 grammes) when she was born by C-section.

Nurse Lucy Letby is alleged to have deliberately dislodged a baby's breathing tube just moments before consultant Dr Ravi Jayaram walked into the nursery room

Dr Ravi Jayaram (pictured) found that Baby K's breathing tube had been dislodged, despite the baby being 'sedated and inactive'

Medics at the Countess of Chester Hospital spent between 30 and 45 minutes helping the infant to breathe, clearing her airways and keeping her warm. Her parents were able to visit her around 04:30 hrs.

The mum recalled a female nurse 'with blondish hair in a ponytail, a little round, not very tall, in her 30s', offering to take some photographs of them with their baby. She took several images, all timed at around 04:31 hours.

Later in the day Baby K was transferred to Arrowe Park Hospital on the Wirral, and her parents followed her there.

In the middle of the night on February 20 the mother awoke with 'the strangest feeling that I can't begin to explain'. She turned to her husband and suggested they go and see K.

'As soon as I walked into the room I could see the monitors and the sats readings for K were low. A doctor confirmed the worse and said she'd been fighting all night. She explained that what happened next was entirely our decision'.

The parents could see that Baby K's body 'had swollen up so much we didn't want her to be suffering any moreWe decided to let her go. This was by far the most difficult decision of my life'.

The infant was wrapped in a blanket and placed in her father's arms. After some time 'she took her last breath and silently passed away'. She was pronounced dead at 05:20 hrs.

Prosecutors at Manchester Crown Court allege that Letby tried to kill Baby K by interfering with her endotracheal tube about 1 hour 40 minutes after her birth.

Letby, originally from Hereford, denies murdering seven babies and attempting to kill a further ten.

Letby (pictured with another baby), originally from Hereford, denies murdering seven babies and attempting to kill a further ten

Prosecutors say lead paediatrician on the unit, Dr Ravi Jayaram, walked into Nursery 1 a few moments later and saw that the baby's chest was not moving.

When he asked Letby had happened, she replied: 'She's just started deteriorating now'.

Nick Johnson KC, made it clear to the jury that there was no allegation that the neonatal nurse caused Baby K's death three days later.

The jury has previously been told how Dr Jayaram realised at 03:50am on February 17 that Lucy Letby was alone in Nursery 1 with Baby K, who had been born at 25 weeks.

Mr Johnson said in his opening address: 'Feeling uncomfortable with this because he was beginning to notice the coincidence between the unexplained deaths/serious collapses and the presence of Lucy Letby, Dr Jayaram decided to check on her and (Baby) K.

'As he walked into Room 1, he saw Letby standing over K's incubator. She did not have her hands inside the incubator, but he could see from the monitor that K's oxygen saturation level was falling dangerously to somewhere in the 80s.

'However, the alarm was not sounding as it should have been. Lucy Letby had not called for help and was making no effort to help K.

'Dr Jayaram went straight to treat K and found her chest was not moving. He asked Letby if anything had happened, to which she replied: "She's just started deteriorating now".

The paediatrician found that the infant's breathing tube had been dislodged. 'Whilst it is possible for a baby to cause this if sufficiently active, K was not only very premature but she was sedated and inactive.

'The tube was secured by tape and attached to K's headgear. Its dislodging can happen accidentally on handling, but any member of staff responsible for such an accident would realise straight away.

'Dr Jayaram was troubled as Nurse Letby had been the only person in the room'.

Mr Johnson said that the monitors in Nursery 1 were set to activate automatically if readings fell outside neonatal values.

He added: 'Given the values witnessed by Dr Jayaram, the alarm should have sounded. There is an alarm pause button on the screen of the monitor, and by pushing this the operator can pause the alarm for one minute. It will then reactivate unless paused again.

'Bearing in mind the rate displayed on the monitor, Dr Jayaram estimates the tube would have been dislodged between 30-60 seconds before he entered the room. This would be on the assumption that the alarm had been cancelled/suspended once only'.

The barrister said that despite his concerns Dr Jayaram 'did not make a contemporaneous note of his suspicions or the alarm failing to activate'.

The trial continues.
As a teenager the actor was charged with throwing rocks at black children and using a racist slur, as well as an attack on two Vietnamese men

He handed out the awards to the cast on Sunday, 35 years after he was convicted of assaulting two Asian men

Mark Wahlberg has been slammed for being chosen to present an award to the mostly-Asian cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once

Mark Wahlberg's history of racially motivated attacks has resurfaced again after the actor was slammed for presenting SAG Award to the Asian cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once.

He handed out the awards to the cast on Sunday, 35 years after he was convicted of assaulting two Asian men.

The Ted actor, 51, was twice charged for race-related crimes while living in Boston in the 1980s as a teenager.

In 1986 Wahlberg, then 15, was charged alongside three friends for pelting black children with rocks while yelling 'kill the n******'.

The group only stopped when an ambulance driver intervened, with Wahlberg harassing another group of mostly black children at the beach the following day.

Mark Wahlberg handed out the awards to the cast on Sunday, 35 years after he was convicted of assaulting two Asian men

Wahlberg then knocked Thanh Lam unconscious with a five-foot wooden stick, before punching his second victim, Johnny Trinh (pictured), in the eye later the same day

He was then charged in 1988 for attaching two Vietnamese men while high on the drug PCP, calling his victims a 'Vietnam f***ing s***'.

Wahlberg then knocked Thanh Lam unconscious with a five-foot wooden stick, before punching his second victim, Johnny Trinh, in the eye later the same day.

Officers say that he used racist slurs to describe both men, and Wahlberg was found guilty of violating the civil rights of his victims.

A civil rights injunction was issued against him and two of his friends, with the case settled in court swiftly.

He was also charged with attempted murder but pleaded guilty to felony assault  claiming that he was intoxicated, and the attacks weren't race related.

Wahlberg was found to be in contempt of court because of the civil rights injunction, which prohibited him from assaulting, threatening, or intimidating anyone because of race or nationality.

The actor was sentenced to two years in prison, but only severed 45 days of the sentence for the attack on the Vietnamese men.

In 2014 he then attempted to seek a pardon for the second attack and have it wiped from his criminal record.

The actor was slammed for presenting SAG Award to the Asian cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once.

Johnny Trinh, on his wedding day to fellow Vietnamese refugee Hoa Du Trinh. The couple now live in Arlington, Texas, and had no idea who his assailant was

He quit his life of crime, found fame as the rapper 'Marky Mark' and later embarked on an acting career that has earned him an estimated $200m fortune

Trinh had to flee Vietnam when the Communist North overran the pro-American South, ending the Vietnam war. He became one of the 'boat people'

He says in a written plea: 'I am deeply sorry for the actions that I took on the night of April 8, 1988, as well as for any lasting damage I may have caused the victims.

'Since that time, I have dedicated myself to becoming a better person and citizen so that I can be a role model to my children and others.'

But he later dropped the request, saying that he had 'done the work' to make things right, after adding he hoped that his recent actions would show that he changes.

He said in a 2020 interview: 'I took it upon myself to own up to my mistakes and go against the grain and not be a part of the gang any more  to say that I was going to go and do my own thing.

'[It] made it 10 times more difficult to walk from my home to the train station, to go to school, to go to work.

'But I also prided myself on doing the right thing and turning my life around  I would hope that people would be able to get a second chance in life.'

Wahlberg was also charged with attempted murder but pleaded guilty to felony assault  claiming that he was intoxicated, and the attacks weren't race related

In June of 2020, he was ripped online after posting a memorial to George Floyd, with many pointing to the actor's hate conviction, and others claiming he's edited his Wikipedia to try and hide his past

Trinh, his wife Hoa and children Steven (foreground) and Tammy (right) outside a Buddhist temple in Arlington Texas, where they now live

Wahlberg was released after serving just 45 days at the Suffolk County Deer Island House of Correction.

He quit his life of crime, found fame as the rapper 'Marky Mark' and later embarked on an acting career that has earned him an estimated $200m fortune.

Films such as 'The Departed' and 'The Fighter' have made him the most bankable star in Hollywood.

Speaking to MailOnline at the time, Johnny Trinh about his pardon: 'He was young and reckless but I forgive him now. Everyone deserves another chance.

'I would like to see him get a pardon. He should not have the crime hanging over him any longer.'

His record has come to the fore after he called the name of the film Women Talking as Women Are Talking; and announced the group honor as the award for best actor.

Wahlberg embraced actor Ke Huy Quan on the stage and was later seen posing with James Hong in a social media post, calling Hong a legend.

It was not the first time in recent years Wahlberg had faced backlash for his past.

In June of 2020, he was ripped online after posting a memorial to George Floyd, with many pointing to the actor's hate conviction, and others claiming he's edited his Wikipedia to try and hide his past.
A slew of celebrities who protested against the deportation of a Jamaican criminal have kept silent after it was revealed he went on to commit murder in the UK.

Ernesto Elliott was due to be aboard a Home Office charter flight in December 2020, but dodged efforts to remove him thanks to last-minute human rights appeals backed by Labour MPs and a host of celebrities.

But in June 2021  six months after he was supposed to have been removed from Britain  Elliott murdered a 35-year-old man in a horrific knife fight.

Elliott was last month jailed for at least 26 years for murder.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell, Line of Duty actress Thandiwe Newton and soul singer Beverley Knight each spoke out against Elliott's deportation among other criminals.

But tonight they made no comment about Elliotts subsequent conviction for murder. Historian David Olusoga also did not respond to our questions.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell (left) and actress Thandiwe Newton (right) have made no comment since Elliott's crime was revealed

Soul singer Beverley Knight (left) and historian David Olusoga have also said nothing of Elliott's conviction

Labour MP Clive Lewis, who coordinated a letter against the removal flight in 2020, made no comment yesterday.

The letter was signed by fellow Labour politicians.

Former Home Secretary Priti Patel led the criticism of his blocked deportation today, backed by current Home Secretary Suella Braverman and Tory MP Chris Philp, Minister for State of Crime.

Speaking today at a Policy Exchange event, Patel said: 'I was heavily involved in that as home secretary at the time, and I'm afraid, as ever, we came up against various specialist immigration lawyers, Labour MPs but also celebrities who for some reason thought that they should stop a deportation flight of foreign national offenders going back to Jamaica, and that was completely wrong.

'So I'm afraid it is absolutely appalling that individual who should have been on the plane basically was taken off the flight and went on to commit murder.'

Braverman tweeted: 'This murderer should have been deported on a flight out of this country in 2020 but the courts blocked his removal after dozens of Labour MPs cried out it was an injustice. So much for their pledge to keep Britains streets safe.'

And Philp added: 'As Immigration Minister in Dec 2020 I tried to deport this dangerous criminal. But Labour MPs and various celebrities (including Naomi Campbell, Thandiwe Newton, Naomie Harris and David Olusoga) opposed the flight and most criminals were taken off the flight following legal challenges.

Ernesto Elliott, right, killed Nathaniel Eyewu-Ago, on the left, in a knife fight

Elliott was last month jailed for at least 26 years for murder

'Months later, the man subsequently brutally murdered one of our fellow citizens. Labour MPs and virtue-signalling celebrities should think again.'

On June 2, 2021, Elliott was involved in the vicious knife fight in broad daylight in Greenwich, south-east London.

Alongside his son Nico, 23, Elliott robbed and murdered 35-year-old Nathaniel Eyewu-Ago in a row over drugs.

The horrifying incident was videoed by shocked neighbours. It shows Elliott, his son and another man repeatedly lunging with long-bladed knives and a hammer at the victim, who was armed with a machete.

Mr Eyewu-Ago collapsed after being stabbed through the heart and died in hospital six days later.

Onlookers who witnessed the bloody, eight-minute confrontation suffered 'significant trauma', police said.

It was a crime that would never have taken place if Elliott, 45, had been sent back to his birth country.

Priti Patel, who oversaw the attempt to remove Elliott when she was in charge of the Home Office, said the case showed why it was crucial to defy 'do-gooders' who try to block deportations

British Home Secretary Suella Braverman arrives at 10 Downing Street to attend a cabinet meeting, in London, Britain, 21 February 2023

Tory MPs used the opportunity to hit out at Labour MPs

Elliott was due to be on the chartered Boeing 757 on December 2, 2020, after being convicted of knife crime, police sources said. But he and 22 other serious criminals submitted last-minute appeals  including human rights claims  which led to them avoiding deportation to Jamaica.

The 23 criminals had been sentenced to a combined 156 years in jail. Their appeals came just days after 60 celebrities, authors and other public figures signed an open letter opposing the flight.

They included supermodel Naomi Campbell, Line Of Duty star Thandiwe Newton, James Bond actress Naomie Harris and historian David Olusoga. A host of Labour MPs also added their signatures.

Opposition MPs even compared the deportation flight to the Windrush scandal, even though the Caribbean migrants who suffered awful injustice in that episode had committed no crimes.

After a trial at the Old Bailey last month, Elliott, from Walthamstow, east London, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 26 years and a concurrent sentence of 12 years for robbery. Keeping him in jail will cost the taxpayer more than 1.3million at current rates.

His son was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 22 years and a concurrent sentence of ten years for robbery.

Elliott was one of 23 criminals who avoided deportation to Jamaica

David Olusoga was among the 60 celebrities, authors and other public figures who signed an open letter opposing the flight

Detective Chief Inspector Kate Kieran said the father and son were 'prepared to use any form of violence necessary to protect their stolen property' after robbing the victim of drugs and cash.

She added that the crime had 'caused significant trauma to innocent members of the public who witnessed it'.

Former home secretary Ms Patel said: 'This case is exactly why we must continue to defy the protestations from the Labour Party, the do-gooding celebrities and immigration lawyers and remove convicted foreign criminals, rapists, murders, child abusers and drug dealers who have no right to be in this country.'

After avoiding deportation in 2020, Elliott is thought to have been released back on to the streets within weeks. The Home Office can detain foreign national offenders only if there is a 'realistic prospect of imminent removal'.

Philp said at the time: 'It is disappointing that specialist immigration law firms continued to use last-minute tactics to remove a significant number of offenders from this flight. Those we are attempting to remove have committed crimes which have a devastating impact on victims and their families.' Another foreign criminal who avoided being sent back to Jamaica on the same flight was murderer Michael Antonio White.

He and accomplice Hopeton Alexander Pink received life sentences at London's Kingston Crown Court in 2003 after shooting a man six times at close range.

A Home Office spokesman said: 'Foreign national offenders who exploit our system and commit crimes here in the UK will face the full force of the law, including deportation at the earliest opportunity for those eligible. While legal challenges can frustrate immediate deportation, we remain resolute in our commitment to deport those who abuse our hospitality.'
Rishi Sunak's Windsor Framework, the new Brexit package for Northern Ireland, is the result of months of painstaking negotiation.

The PM has been deeply involved in hammering out new terms, despite warnings from many quarters that he is putting his premiership on the line.

There has been a desperate push from both sides to make progress before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement this spring.

Mr Sunak this afternoon insisted that he had received significant concessions from Brussels in a bid to win over critics in the Democratic Unionist Party and on his own Tory backbenches.

In come red and green customs lanes splitting goods destined for domestic consumption from those going on to Ireland within the EU, to reduce the impact if checks.

There are also changes to VAT rules giving the UK full control of excise duties, and new medicines rules that allow the free movement of pets.

And in perhaps the most eye-catching of changes, the Stormont assembly will get a veto over new EU goods laws, and whether they should apply in the province.

However, it remains to be seen whether it will b enough to win over the DUP and its allies, with the European Court of Justice retaining a role in arbitration. Its removal is one of their key sticking points.

Mr Sunak this afternoon insisted that he had received significant concessions from Brussels in a bid to win over critics in the Democratic Unionist Party and on his own Tory backbenches.

The UK and EU are unveiling a new deal on Brexit terms for Northern ireland today

There is no chance of a DUP endorsement today. In a statement its leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said: 'In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern.'

What's the problem with the existing deal?

One of the main problems during the Brexit process was how to treat Northern Ireland.

When the UK became a 'third country', the situation would have been simply solved by creating a 'hard' border with physical checks on vehicles and people.

But that is forbidden by the The Good Friday Agreement, which drew a line under decades of sectarian violence in 1998.

That pact was carefully ambiguous about the status of Northern Ireland, allowing unionists and republicans to claim they had stood by key principles. That relied on both the UK and EU being under the same customs and regulatory regimes.

Boris Johnson agreed the Protocol in the original divorce terms. It attempted to resolve the issues by drawing a supposedly 'invisible' customs line in the Irish Sea, and leaving Northern Ireland in the EU single market.

However, unionists pointed out that the customs border was far from seamless, and have objected in principle to the idea that Northern Ireland follows a foreign power's regulatory rules - without any say over how those rules are set.

How has that affected Northern Ireland politics?

There have been worrying signs of a rise in violent sectarian tensions in Northern Ireland.

The DUP has always demanded the scrapping of the protocol, and forced the suspension of Stormont in February 2022 by refusing to participate in powersharing.

The Good Friday Agreement dictates that both the largest unionist and the largest republican parties must nominate the first minister and deputy first minister roles for the administration to function.

After Northern Ireland elections in May 2022 Sinn Fein emerged as the largest party overall for the first time - meaning they should hold the First Minister role. However, the DUP has continue to boycott the executive.

The UK government is usually obliged to call elections in these circumstances, but they look unlikely to produce a different outcome and have been delayed while a deal is thrashed out.

What has Sunak managed to get from the EU?

The new Windsor Framework was announced by Mr Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, with the Prime Minister claiming that the agreement 'removes any sense of a border in the Irish Sea'.

The Prime Minister set out a wider array of planned changes and reforms, covering trade, VAT regulation and the role of Stormont in EU laws that apply to Northern Ireland.

At the core of the deal is the creation of a new system for the flow of goods.

Anything destined for Northern Ireland will travel there as part of a 'green lane', with significantly fewer checks. Anything that could cross the border and enter the EU's single market will travel through a separate red lane.

Mr Sunak said that the changes to the protocol will scale back the number of certificates required for traders moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, with customs paperwork removed too for people sending parcels or buying goods online.

He indicated changes to the movement of food too, claiming that anything made to UK rules will now be clear to be 'sent to and sold' in NI. That will include sausages, one of the foodstuffs hit by protocol changes and which grabbed the attention of politicians in Belfast and Westminster alike.

'If food is available on supermarket shelves in Great Britain, then it will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland,' Mr Sunak said.

As part of the deal, the legal text of the protocol has also been amended on VAT. Under current arrangements, EU VAT and excise rules for goods generally apply in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said that would now change, with the legal text of the protocol amended to allow the UK Government to 'make critical VAT and excise changes for the whole of the UK'.

Alcohol duty, for instance, was mentioned - with Mr Sunak suggesting that the cost of a pint in the pub could be cut for Northern Irish drinkers.

There has been a desperate push from both sides to make progress before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement this spring

How will Northern Ireland politicians be able to 'veto' laws?

Mr Sunak said that a 'Stormont brake' would be introduced to allow the Northern Ireland assembly to flag concerns about changes to EU rules that would have a 'significant and lasting' effect.

This is being billed as a veto on new EU rules regarding customs, goods, and agriculture being introduced in Northern Ireland, even if it means diverging from rules across the border in Ireland.

It will operate under the same framework as the 'Petition of Concern' system set up by the Good Friday Agreement 25 years ago.

In order to go forward the petition needs the support of at least 30 members of the Stormont Assembly, representing at least two parties. The system was set up to ensure cross-party consent for issues.

But the PoC does not automatically mean an EU law is vetoed. It means the complaint is sent to the UK Government and it then intercedes with Brussels as the national government.

The Framework document also contains measures designed to prevent it from being used willy-nilly. It notes: 'The Brake will not be available for trivial reasons: there must be something ''significantly'' different about a new rule, whether in its content or scope, and MLAs will need to show that the rule has a ''significant impact specific to everyday life'' that is liable to persist.'

However, in a nod to DUP complaints, arguments over the use of the break between the UK and EU will not fall under the jurisdiction of the ECJ.

So what is the role of the ECJ now?

The ECJ had been final arbitrator of EU law issues in the region, given the fact that Northern Ireland essentially remains within the single market for goods.

Speaking to reporters, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the ECJ is the 'sole and ultimate arbiter of EU law' and will have the 'final say' on single market decisions. But the UK document makes it clear that there are exceptions.

The Framework document says there will be 'a form of dual regulation ... reflecting that by far the greatest portion of Northern Ireland's economic life will continue to be based on trade within the United Kingdom'.

'As a result over 1,700 pages of EU law - with accompanying European Court of Justice (ECJ) jurisdiction - are disapplied, meaning that core UK trade is based on core UK internal market rules, whether citizens and businesses are based in Belfast or Birmingham,' it adds.

'This will ensure, for example, that the same UK food safety laws apply for retail goods moved into Northern Ireland; that VAT and excise rates apply UK-wide; and that medicines licensing will always be undertaken by the UK regulator for patients in Northern Ireland - without jeopardising access for Northern Ireland pharmaceutical firms to the EU market.'

Will it be enough to win over the DUP and Tory Eurosceptics?

The numbers do look smaller than previous Tory revolts, meaning that Mr Sunak has a good chance of carrying a Commons vote on the new package.

Although formally there is not a requirement for a vote, the government is almost certain to hold one - not least because backbenchers and Labour would find a way of forcing it otherwise.

There is no chance of a DUP endorsement today. In a statement its leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said: 'In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.

The ERG, however, is expected to meet to discuss the deal tomorrow night. Its former leader, Steve Baker, is now a minister who helped secure the agreement. He said it should be enough to satisfy 'reasonable unionists'.

'The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts. Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required.'

The ERG, however, is expected to meet to discuss the deal tomorrow night. Its former leader, Steve Baker, is now a minister who helped secure the agreement.

He said it should be enough to satisfy 'reasonable unionists'. He told the BBC: 'There are unionists who would dig a moat between the North and the South, those unionists will never be happy.

'But I think for reasonable unionists - and the DUP are determined but reasonable unionists - I think this deal will be good enough. And if it's not, I'm really not sure what we're going to do for them.'

What about Boris Johnson's Brexit Bill?

Boris Johnson's controversial legislation to override post-Brexit rules on Northern Ireland has been dumped by Rishi Sunak after he negotiated a new deal with the European Union.

Brussels agreed in turn that it will scrap its legal action against the UK launched in retaliation to the former prime minister's Northern Ireland Protocol Bill.

Mr Johnson had been warning his successor that scrapping the legislation would be a 'great mistake'.

But the Government's new 'Windsor Framework', finalised with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, said it was no longer needed.

'The Government will therefore not be proceeding with the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill,' it reads.

'In turn, the EU will not proceed with the seven separate legal actions it has launched against the United Kingdom - on issues from parcels to pets - reflecting the shared desire for a positive bilateral relationship now and into the future.'

The commission welcomed the UK agreeing to let the Bill, currently stalled in the House of Lords, to lapse at the end of the parliamentary session.

'These arrangements, when implemented, mean that there will no longer be grounds for the existing Commission legal proceedings against the United Kingdom relating to the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland,' a statement said.
Self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker admitted he was 'emotional' today as he urged the DUP and Eurosceptics to back the new Brexit deal.

The Northern Ireland minister begged for 'pragmatism' saying everyone should be willing to 'bank' success.

The appeal came as the DUP gave a careful response to the package announced by Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen this afternoon.

Leader Jeffrey Donaldson welcome 'significant progress' but also warned it was impossible to 'disguise' that EU laws will still apply in some sectors.

He insisted the party will take a 'reasonable' time to study the detail of the 119 pages of legal text, suggesting that further 'clarification' could be needed.

However, the nuanced statement will give Mr Sunak hope that the DUP will end up getting on board with the plans - amid reports that they have already privately agreed to do so.

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker (left) begged for 'pragmatism' saying everyone should be willing to 'bank' success. DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson (left) said the party will study the detail of the deal

The DUP gave a careful response to the package announced by Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen this afternoon

At a joint press conference this afternoon, Mr Sunak said they had achieved a 'decisive breakthrough' and forged a 'Windsor Framework' - named after the location of their talks.

He promised 'smooth flow of trade' between mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, with UK VAT, customs and medicines rules applying in the province. He argued that the minimum of EU rules would be followed to avoid a hard border with the Republic - European judges staying as the final arbiter on those.

But a 'Stormont Brake' will mean laws cannot be forced on the province if opposed by 30 assembly members from at least two parties. If the threshold is met they can ask the UK government to wield a veto.

Changes to the withdrawal treaty will be put through to enact the measures, another key demand of the DUP.

What is in Rishi's new 'Windsor Framework' for NI? Green lanes for trade: Goods destined from mainland Britain for Northern Ireland will travel through a new green lane, with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU. Food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry and we will end the situation where food made to UK rules could not be sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. Taking back control of tax: The legal text of the of the NI protocol has been altered to make sure the UK has control of VAT and excise duty in Northern Ireland. Mr Sunak said the change would reduce alcohol duty 'meaning our reforms to cut the cost of a pint in a pub will now apply in Northern Ireland'. Medicines and pets: UK medicine regulations will apply in Northern Ireland, and there will also be fewer controls on pets be transported to and from mainland Britain. Sovereignty guarantee: The Stormont Assembly, which has not sat since the DUP withdrew from its power-sharing executive in February last year, will gain new powers over the introduction of new EU trade laws that could have a large impact on trade. Advertisement

Mr Sunak insisted the settlement can open a 'new chapter' in ties with Brussels, although he acknowledged the DUP will want to 'consider the detail' and the government will 'give them time and space to do that'.

The premier declared that a Commons vote will be held - but suggested it might not happen quickly. The government has declared it will drop the NI Protocol Bill as part of the overhaul, against the wishes of many Eurosceptics. Ms von der Leyen suggested that the UK will now be allowed into the Horizon science scheme.

'I believe we have found ways to end the uncertainty and challenge for the people of Northern Ireland,' Mr Sunak said.

Sir Jeffrey said after the announcement: 'We welcome the publication of the outcome of the Government's negotiations with the EU which ends a period of speculation and spin, often from those who know little about Northern Ireland.

'In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.

'The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts. Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required.

'Ultimately the party will now assess all these proposed outcomes and arrangements against our seven tests, outlined in our 2022 Assembly Election Manifesto, to determine whether what has been published meet our tests and whether it respects and restores Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom.'

Mr Baker, a Brexit 'spartan' during Theresa May days, went into bat for the deal after it was announced.

He admitted that even up until yesterday he feared he might have to resign, but was now 'enthusiastically' supporting the PM's deal.

'I think it is very important in politics to know when you've had a win win solution for all sides. Bank it and move forwards,' Mr Baker said.

'This is the time to bank what is a radical improvement for the people of Northern Ireland...

'There is always going to be something that some ideologue would condemn. Some unionists are so hard line I think they would put a moat between the North and the South.

'But those ladies and gentlemen are never going to be satisfied by anything.'
A teacher was awarded $5 million in a civil lawsuit against Virginia police officials who arrested her in a morning raid after a student accused her of sexual abuse.

Kimberly Winters, 36, obtained the multi-million dollar win after an 'unusually quick' verdict was reached in the case which saw the former teacher suing a Loudon County sheriff's detective.

In November 2018, police rammed into the English teacher's home and arrested her - leaving her standing out in the cold as neighbors watched - after a 17-year-old accused her of abusing him sexually on multiple occasions.

Charges were dropped several months later after further investigations revealed the allegations could not be credibly corroborated and that Deputy Peter Roque had not seriously investigated any of the student's claims.

Winters says law enforcement officials ruined her life that night and that she still has nightmares over the incident which has left her traumatized permanently.

This is Kimberly Winters, the teacher who was recently awarded $5 million in her lawsuit against two Loudon, Virginia law enforcement officials. Winters was arrested after a student came forward alleging she had sexually abused them

Deputy Peter Roque was the official who investigated the case but did not do due diligence before arresting Winters, the former teacher's lawyers argued

Sheriff Michael Chapman was also cited in the lawsuit filed by Winters and her lawyer

'It was very terrifying,' Winters said in an interview with The Washington Post. 'I still have nightmares. Big guns.'

The situation began when a student at Park View High School in Loudon County, Virginia came forward and alleged that Winters had sexual intercourse with them on three to four occasions inside her home.

The incidents happened between October 1, 2017 and November 2, 2017, the student claimed.

After the student came forward and before a full investigation had been done, Deputy Roque brought charges of indecent liberties with a minor by a person in a custodial or supervisory relationship.

Winters was pulled out of her bed in the middle of the night and handcuffed in front of her Sterling, Virginia home while in her pajamas.

The woman said her neighbors watched on in horror as she was patted down.

Inside the local jail, she was allegedly strip-searched, which her lawyer said is a violation of the sheriff's policies since she had not been booked yet.

Additionally, her mug shot was taken and given to local news outlets which distributed the image along with the information contained in a press release.

Winters was subsequently fired from the job she held for nearly a decade.

This is the mug shot Loudon County Sheriff's officials took of Winters on the night she was ripped from her home and taken into custody

This is Park View High School where Winters worked before she was fired

The student's mother has maintained her belief that her son was abused by Winters.

'Do you know how much he's scarred for that?' the mother said. 'She got away with all this with $5 million on top of it. That's a miscarriage of justice,' the

School representatives and Loudon law enforcement initially said no crimes had occurred since he was 18 at the time of his allegations.

That's when Plofchan said the family changed their timeline to make it look as though the abuse happened when he was still underage.

The lawyer argued that the student's father died in 2017, leaving them without money, and the boy and his mother may have been hoping to sue the district.

The mother had claimed she had a record of texts and calls between Winters and her son but his phone had been wiped before officials ever got to see them.

This 'evidence' was then used to justify the search warrant which saw Winters pulled from her home.

The dates the mother and son gave for the alleged sexual abuse also occurred when the teacher was out of town or busy but officials never checked out her alibi.

The search of her property, classroom, and phone turned up no evidence of abuse, the lawyer said.

Less than five months after she was taken into custody, the charges were completely dismissed after Loudon prosecutors looked at the case.

According to Winter's lawyer, Thomas K. Plofchan, Roque had claimed on a sworn search warrant that witness statements were corroborated by phone records.

Despite that claim, Plofchan said there were no records at all.

After the charges had been dropped completely, the former teacher sued Deputy Roque and Loudoun Sheriff Mike Chapman.

'After the arrest,' Plofchan said, 'they did everything they should have done before the arrest.'

Winters had worked for Loudon County Public Schools at Park View High for nearly a decade

The trial took five days and the jury took less than two hours to deliberate and find the pair responsible for economic and punitive damages.

In total, Winters was awarded $5 million.

The teacher claims the damage has already been done, however, as she has been 'blacklisted' in her hometown.

Winters, who has a master's degree in teaching, could not get a job - even in a grocery store - and lost all of her friends, she says.

'The moment that I was arrested, I got basically blacklisted from everyone at school, all of my friends, all of my group chats with teachers,' the teacher told The Washington Post.

'I didn't feel safe in my community. I couldn't go outside, or go to church. They all thought I was guilty. No one gave me the benefit of the doubt. It was horrible,' she continued.

She also developed a tremor and deep anxiety issues.

'It became so humiliating, I literally couldn't go out of my house,' Winters said.

'This has been going on for four years. The repeated trauma of having to relive this created this tremor. My entire body shakes,' she continued.

She has since moved from Sterling, where she grew up and lived her entire life.

'I hope I can just start to rebuild,' Winters said. 'This definitely isn't a cure-all. The information [about the arrest] is still out there.'

This is the Loudon County Public Schools administration building in Virginia

Winters has since been forced to move out of the town where she grew up and lived so she can start a new life fresh after years of controversy and being 'blacklisted'

Roque and Chapman's lawyer, Alexander Francuzenko, argued at trial that their mistakes were honest.

'Sometimes you get them wrong and you don't want to, but that doesn't mean you're malicious,' the Loudoun Times reported.

After the verdict had been reached in Winters' case, Chapman was announced as 'Sheriff of the Year' by the National Sheriff's Association.

Meanwhile, Winters says she is still processing her court win and the million-dollar award.

'I definitely remember hearing a number and not knowing what it meant,' Winters said, telling the Washington Post it took an attorney writing down the number for it to sink it.

'This is real.' Then we all just hugged,' she said.

Winters said she doesn't think she will be able to go back into the classroom.

'I couldn't trust that another person isn't going to do this again. The scariest part is this could happen to anyone,' she continued.
Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen this evening shook hands on a new Brexit package for Northern Ireland following months of negotiations.

The Prime Minister said he had achieved a 'decisive breakthrough' with the EU chief and forged a 'Windsor Framework' - named after the location of their talks.

He has promised a 'smooth flow of trade' between mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, with UK VAT, customs and medicines rules applying in the province.

The new package will include the introduction of red and green customs lanes to split goods destined for domestic consumption from those going on to Ireland within the EU - helping to reduce the impact of checks.

You can read every page of the new protocol deal below:
'You are not alone. We are with you. The United States has your back, and we will stand with you for as long as it takes,' Yellen tells President Volodymyr Zelensky

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Ukraine on Monday to meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky and promise more financial support from the United States in its war with Russia.

She announced the transfer $1.25 billion in economic and budget assistance to Ukraine in a follow up to President Joe Biden's surprise visit to Kyiv last week.

'I want you to know this: You are not alone. We are with you. The United States has your backand we will stand with you for as long as it takes,' she said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen during her secret visit

Yellen began her visit as air raid alarms sounded in Kyiv.

U.S. officials said her visit is to demonstrate the importance of U.S. economic to the Ukrainian government.

A year since the Russian invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, it comes at a time some Republican lawmakers have questioned why the U.S. is spending so much on money and military aide in the defense of Ukraine.

Yellen laid a wreath in Kyiv's St. Michaels Square at the Wall of Remembrance in honor of Ukrainians who have died during the war and visited a school that had U.S. budget assistance.

She stopped to inspect a destroyed Russian tank and mobile artillery piece on display at a city square cleared of visitors and met with first responders from the city's emergency services.

Yellen visited Kyiv on her return to Washington from a G20 finance leaders meeting in Bengaluru, India, where she urged counterparts to boost economic aid to Ukraine and insisted that G20 ministers issue a strong condemnation of Russia's invasion.

Since the war began, the United States has given Ukraine more than $13 billion in economic and budget support funding, and the latest disbursement will push that to over $14 billion, with an additional $8.65 billion expected through Sept. 30.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen arrives to lay flowers to a Memory Wall of Fallen Defenders of Ukraine in the Russian-Ukrainian War during her visit to Kyiv

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen visits a school and meets with students in Kyiv, Ukraine

Yellen said such economic support is keeping Ukraine's government and critical public services running, schools open and pensions paid, providing a 'bedrock of stability' that fuels Ukrainian resistance.

'A sustained military effort cannot succeed without an effective government at home,' Yellen said at the Kyiv Obolon School No. 168, where the salaries of teachers, administrators and support staff are reimbursed from U.S. budget support funds.

A chalkboard at the school, damaged in Russia's initial assault on the capital last year, read 'Crimea is Ours,' next to one with '2+2=4.'

Ukraine is estimated to need $40 billion to $57 billion in external financing this year to support its economy and is negotiating a $15.5 billion loan program with the International Monetary Fund to partly fill the gap.
Guy Savoy, who is recognised as the 'best chef in the world', was stripped of a Michelin star at a restaurant in Paris.

The 69-year-old has held Michelin's top three-star status since 2002 for his Monnaie de Paris restaurant- it overlooks the Seine and has a sister version in Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

In November he was named best chef in the world for the sixth year running by La Liste, which aggregates thousands of reviews from around the world.

Savoy's fame goes beyond the kitchen as an ambassador for the French 'art de vivre' and he lent his voice to the French version of the Pixar film 'Ratatouille'.

But that has not stopped Michelin from downgrading his establishment to two stars in its latest edition, published next Monday.

Guy Savoy, who is recognised as the 'best chef in the world', was stripped of a Michelin star as his Monnaie de Paris restaurant downgraded to two in its latest guide edition

In November the 69-year-old was named best chef in the world for the sixth year running by La Liste

It did the same for the upmarket seafood eatery of Christopher Coutanceau in La Rochelle.

Head of the Michelin Guide, Gwendal Poullennec said: 'These are exceptional restaurants, so you can imagine that these decisions are carefully considered, supported by numerous visits from our inspectors throughout the year.

'The reasons are not made public, and communicated only to the chefs involved.

'For such important decisions, we include not just French inspectors but also some from other countries.'

Michelin also downgraded the upmarket seafood eatery of Christopher Coutanceau in La Rochelle to two stars in its' latest edition

The move to downgrade restaurants is always hugely controversial, especially since the suicide 20 years ago of Bernard Loiseau - a close friend of Savoy - after his restaurant lost a star.

One chef, Marc Veyrat, unsuccessfully took the guide to court in 2019 after being stripped of a star- he said he never wanted to see a Michelin inspector in his restaurants again.

Around 20 French restaurants have also been downgraded from two to one star in the latest edition of the guide.

It had not downgraded anyone since 2019, conscious of the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Those difficulties have continued with restaurants facing staffing shortages and, in the last year, soaring prices.

The guide says downgrades are now necessary if it is to stay relevant.

Poullennec said: 'Yes, there are challenges, but they are challenges for everyone.'

Created in 1900 by tyre manufacturers Andre and Edouard Michelin as a guide for motorists, it now has editions across Europe, Asia, North and South America.
Online marketplace Public Square is set to merge with Omeed Malik's blank check company Colombier Acquisition Group in a $200 million deal as the company launches a full-throttle campaign to give every 'anti-woke' consumer an Amazon-like alternative.

The San Diego-based company launched nationwide seven months ago and now hosts nearly 50,000 'patriotic' vendors and has processed millions of transactions.

It's now drawn in conservative heavyweights like Donald Trump Jr., who serves as an investor and an adviser, and former Arizona Senate candidate Blake Masters, who is an advisor.

'People need to stop giving their money to businesses that hate them. We aren't going to defeat woke corporations by whining on Twitter,' Trump Jr. told DailyMail.com.

A final deal could be announced as soon as today, a source familiar confirmed to DailyMail.com.

The company offers consumers an alternative online sales platform at a time when the GOP has made 'progressive corporatism' and Big Tech abuses its new battlefront.

'We're the nation's largest directory of patriotic, America-first businesses and consumers that has ever existed,' Michael Seifert, the company's founder, told DailyMail.com in an interview.

Public Square, founded by Michael Seifert, launched nationwide in July

Company tells consumers which products align with 'patriotic' values

Those involved in the platform find themselves at the center of the new conservative movement to take on 'woke' corporations.

In a sign of the nation's ever-growing right-left divide, they say they are working to create a 'parallel economy' where consumers don't have to purchase anything from vendors whose political values don't align with their own.

Donald Trump Jr. says he hopes to grow the companies vendors to the millions and its users to the tens of millions.

'We will win by creating a parallel economy and that's exactly what PublicSq is doing. PublicSq is on a mission to identify millions of small businesses across America that share our patriotic values.'

Malik, Trump Jr., Masters, a former Thiel Capital executive, and Nick Ayers, former chief of staff to Vice President Mike Pence are all set to join the board, a source confirmed.

It's free to sell products on PublicSq, and the company's vetting process is mostly centered on a vendor checking a box to say they agree with a stated list of values.

Companies must promise to 'protect the family unit' and the 'sanctity of life,' say that they will fight to defend U.S. 'greatness,' agree that the Constitution is 'non-negotiable' and promise to source 'as many products as possible' in the U.S.

'These are things that normal people believe in 2006, right? We're not we're not we're not fringe, we're not out on the outskirt,' Seifert said.

'We believe in judging each other by the content of our character, not by the color of our skin. So we're not embracing affirmative action policies, no ESG (environmental, social and governance, no DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion,' Seifert said.

'This is an economy that's based on meritocracy and value for the individual.'

Seifert first got the idea for a parallel conservative marketplace during Covid lockdowns in San Diego, Calif. He created an online directory of businesses in San Diego that did not force masks or vaccines.

'It sort of blew up from there, we realized that the nation was hungry for it too,' he said.

Malik, a former managing director at Bank of America, founded investment firm 1789 Capital, which promises to provide capital to 'companies building the next era of American prosperity,' according to its website. It's named after the year the Bill of Rights was signed.

Malik talked about 'patriotic capitalism' in an interview with Tucker Carlson in December.


By Kim Ae-ran



As I stopped by the Sixth Floor Museum in Texas, the inaugural speech of John F. Kennedy seemed to resonate. Let me share with you some parts of his address which are still applicable:



"Let every nation know whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty



"So, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. My fellow citizens of the world, ask not what America will do for you, but what together we can do for the freedom of man.



"Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here, the same high standards of strength and sacrifice, which we ask of you. With a good conscience, our only sure reward with history, the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking his blessing and his help, but knowing that here on Earth, God's work must truly be our own."



This well-known inaugural address by Kennedy inspires us to think of the importance of civic action and public service for the common good. This invitation challenges everybody in the world to contribute to the public good.



Probably because of his worldwide humanitarian spirit, we still remember the day when President Kennedy was assassinated by a clerk on the sixth floor of the Texas School Book Depository building near Dealey Plaza. He passed away on Nov. 22, 1963, at age 47.



Now, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza in Texas has become a must-see historical site in the history of the United States.



Being the second of nine children, Kennedy was born on May 29, 1917, in Brookline, Massachusetts, to Joseph Patrick Kennedy and Rose Elizabeth Fitzgerald Kennedy.



He graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in International Relations from Harvard. Then, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1940, but he was released from the Navy due to physical disability in 1945.



He became a special correspondent journalist for Hearst Newspapers including the Chicago Herald-American and the New York Journal-American. In 1946, he was elected as a Democratic U.S. representative and served three terms over six years. In 1952, he was elected to the U.S. Senate.



On Sept. 12, 1953, at age 36, he married Jacqueline Lee Bouvier. In 1954, he wrote his biography "Profiles in Courage" while recovering from his back surgery. In 1956, he campaigned for the vice presidency.



When he was elected the 35th president of the U.S. in 1960, he was the first Roman Catholic and the youngest man elected president.



Among his accomplishments, he is well-known for the Peace Corps, space exploration, Vietnam deployment, the civil rights movement, the Cold War, Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and New Frontier Spirit.



Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." (Mark 13:24) The same with the appealing words of Kennedy: "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country."





The author is a member of the Daughters of St. Paul. When available, please feel free to visit her blog, "A piece of sunshine," at mtorchid88.blogspot.com.






Rishi Sunak boasted that he has completed Brexit tonight as he ran the gauntlet of the Commons after striking a new deal with the EU over Northern Ireland.

The PM said the government had 'now taken back control' as he made a statement to MPs about the package finalised with EU commission president Ursula von der Leyen.

Boris Johnson failed to appear in the Commons to see Rishi Sunak unveil his new Brexit deal - and a source close to the former prime minister said that he is continuing to study and reflect on the Government's proposals.

Hailing the 'decisive breakthrough' of the 'Windsor Framework' - named after the location of their final talks - Mr Sunak said proudly: 'It puts beyond all doubt that we have now taken back control.'

Rishi Sunak made a statement to MPs after joining the EU commission president to unveil the package - the result of months of tortuous negotiations

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hold a press conference at Windsor Guildhall today announcing the post-Brexit deal

He promised 'smooth flow of trade' between mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, with UK VAT, customs and medicines rules applying in the province.

As a result Mr Sunak said they had removed 'any sense of a border in the Irish Sea'.

He argued that the minimum of EU rules would be followed to avoid a hard border with the Republic - European judges staying as the final arbiter on those.

But a 'Stormont Brake' will mean laws that substantially affect trade cannot be forced on the province if opposed by 30 assembly members from at least two parties. If the threshold is met they can ask the UK government to wield a veto.

Mr Sunak insisted the settlement can open a 'new chapter' in ties with Brussels, although he acknowledged the DUP will want to 'consider the detail' and the government will 'give them time and space to do that'.

Speaking at Stormont, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill said her party was working through all the detail of the new agreement.

She added: 'I welcome the fact that a deal has been done. We have always said that it was possible to have a deal. We have always said with pragmatism, solutions can be found.

'The fact that both sides have arrived at this point today, that is something that will be well received.

'I was always very clear that the protections that were secured within the protocol were very necessary, they remain necessary.'

Michael Gove is seen leaving Cabinet Office after emergency cabinet meeting on Northern Ireland Protocol deal with European Union

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar described the deal as 'a uniquely positive arrangement for Northern Ireland businesses in particular'

Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill and Connor Murphy speaking in Stormont

EU President Ursula Von Der Leyen travelled to the UK today to meet UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to sign off on the agreement on the post-Brexit trade arrangements for Northern Ireland

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the EU has moved 'a lot' to help facilitate the deal

There were bombshell rumours this afternoon that unionists are ready to shift position and accept the agreement. That would pave the way for the restoration of power sharing at Stormont.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson played down the claims in the Irish News. And in a statement this evening he gave a careful welcome - highlighting 'progress' but pointing out there was 'no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland'.

Other DUP MPs were overtly sceptical, with Ian Paisley saying the new proposals do not 'cut the mustard'.

Irish Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the new agreement would strengthen relations between Ireland and the UK.

He said: 'The agreement also paves the way for new and more positive relations between the UK and the EU and between the UK and Ireland.

'This is a time of great trouble in the world. We need to be partners and friends. There is so much more that unites us than divides us.

'We who have so much in common, so many shared interests and values, should be working together on the great challenges of our age - the war in Ukraine, inflation, climate action, defending democracy.

'This agreement also helps to restore and strengthen relations between Ireland and Great Britain.

'When we were both members of the EU, we met each other frequently and had more opportunities to work closely together. I look forward to discussing with Prime Minister Sunak how we can take relations between us, post-Brexit, to a new and more positive level.'

The PM's allies are waiting nervously to see how Boris Johnson will react to the revised terms, with fears he could intervene in the debate. But he did not appear in the chamber tonight. Sources said Mr Johnson was continuing to 'study and reflect on the government's proposals'.

The premier declared that a Commons vote will be held - but suggested it might not happen quickly. Implementation will require a mixture of secondary and possible some primary legislation.

The government has declared it will drop the NI Protocol Bill as part of the overhaul, against the wishes of many Eurosceptics. Ms von der Leyen suggested that the UK will now be allowed into the Horizon science scheme.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said 'significant progress' had been made, but 'key issues of concern' remain

Rishi Sunak (left) said he and Ursula von der Leyen (right) had achieved a 'decisive breakthrough' and forged a 'Windsor Framework' - named after the location of their talks

Rishi Sunak has thrashed out a 'Stormont lock' designed to give Northern Ireland a say  but not a veto  over new EU trade laws that will continue to apply

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak held around an hour and 45 minutes of talks in Windsor today

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker was in Downing Street again today, amid rumours that whips have put him on 'resignation watch'

Jeffrey Donaldson tried to cool claims the DUP is ready to back the PM's Brexit deal for NI

Former Cabinet minister Nadine Dorries dismissed the warm words from Mr Baker

The PM faced down laughter in the Commons as he opened his speech by paying tribute to his predecessors.

Mr Sunak told MPs: 'I pay tribute to our European friends for recognising the need for change, particularly President (Ursula) von der Leyen, my predecessors for laying the groundwork for today's agreement'

The Prime Minister was then interrupted by laughter from the opposition benches, as one Labour MP could be heard shouting: 'Where's Boris?'

Mr Sunak continued: 'And my friends the foreign and Northern Ireland secretaries for their perseverance in finally persuading the EU to do what it spent years refusing to do, to rewrite the treaty and replace it with a radical, legally binding new framework.'

The PM said he believes 'passionately with my head and my heart' that the Windsor Framework is the 'right way forward'.

He told the House: 'We've achieved free-flowing trade with a green lane for goods, no burdensome customs bureaucracy, no routine checks on trade, no paperwork whatsoever for Northern Irish goods moving into Great Britain and no border in the Irish Sea.

'We've protected Northern Ireland's place in the Union with state aid reach-back fixed, the same tax rules applying everywhere, vet certificates for food lorries gone, the ban on British sausages gone, parcel paperwork gone, pet paperwork gone, garden centres now selling the same trees, supermarkets selling the same food, and pharmacies selling the same medicines.

'And we've safeguarded sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland with the democratic deficit closed, the Vienna Convention confirmed, thousands of pages of EU law scrapped and with the Stormont brake we have safeguarded democracy and sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

'So that is the choice before us. Let us seize the opportunity of this moment, the certainty of an agreement that fixes the problems we faced, commands broad support and consensus and offers us, at last, the freedom to move forward together  that is what the people of Northern Ireland deserve, that is what the Windsor Framework delivers.

What is in Rishi's new 'Windsor Framework' for NI? Green lanes for trade: Goods destined from mainland Britain for Northern Ireland will travel through a new green lane, with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU. Food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry and we will end the situation where food made to UK rules could not be sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. Taking back control of tax: The legal text of the of the NI protocol has been altered to make sure the UK has control of VAT and excise duty in Northern Ireland. Mr Sunak said the change would reduce alcohol duty 'meaning our reforms to cut the cost of a pint in a pub will now apply in Northern Ireland'. Medicines and pets: UK medicine regulations will apply in Northern Ireland, and there will also be fewer controls on pets be transported to and from mainland Britain. Sovereignty guarantee: The Stormont Assembly, which has not sat since the DUP withdrew from its power-sharing executive in February last year, will gain new powers over the introduction of new EU trade laws that could have a large impact on trade. Advertisement

'As a Conservative, a Brexiteer and a unionist, I believe passionately with my head and my heart that this is the right way forward  right for Northern Ireland, right for our United Kingdom.'

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer told the Commons: 'The protocol will never be perfect  it's a compromise.

'But I've always been clear that if implemented correctly it is an agreement that can work in the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

'And now that it has been agreed we all have an obligation to make it work.'

Theresa May also supported the plans, urging politicians from all sides to help end tensions in Northern Ireland.

David Davis praised the PM's 'spectacular negotiating success'.

Cabinet signed off the plans this afternoon, after the one hour and 45 minute meeting between Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen.

Meanwhile, the government is facing a furious backlash for dragging the King into the political pressure-cooker - as Charles will meet Ms von der Leyen separately this afternoon during her visit.

Brussels has agreed to ditch checks and paperwork on almost all goods and produce sent from mainland Britain to Northern Ireland. Red and green customs channels will be used to distinguish what is bound for the province and the Republic, which remained inside the EU

Mr Sunak has secured a package that removes 97 per cent of EU law from Northern Ireland.

Although Northern Ireland might still be covered by future EU legislation, there will be a democratic mechanism - a 'Stormont Brake' - intended to ensure the province's politicians have a say.

In one of the potential flashpoints, the European Court of Justice will stay as the final arbiter on single market rules in Northern Ireland. But there will be protections designed to demonstrate that cases cannot be referred directly by the EU.

Mr Sunak appears to have had a crucial win by persuading the bloc that the text of the protocol should be tweaked - something it had previously refused to do.

That meant that the changes on VAT and other taxes and regulations were possible.

The Windsor Framework document confirmed that the government will not abandon the NI Protocol Bill - which would have unilaterally overridden the protocol.

'Overall the agreement delivers on the core objectives that the Government set out previously in the Command Paper of July 2021 and the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill in June 2022, such that it is no longer necessary to proceed with the Bill.

'In tandem, the EU will no longer proceed with the seven separate legal challenges it had brought against the UK in relation to the Protocol.'

Sir Jeffrey said after the announcement: 'We welcome the publication of the outcome of the Government's negotiations with the EU which ends a period of speculation and spin, often from those who know little about Northern Ireland.

'In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.

'The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts. Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required.

'Ultimately the party will now assess all these proposed outcomes and arrangements against our seven tests, outlined in our 2022 Assembly Election Manifesto, to determine whether what has been published meet our tests and whether it respects and restores Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom.'

Speaking on GB News, Mr Paisley sounded a much more negative tone.

'Has it been changed sufficiently, does it meet our seven tests? Obviously we're going to continue to assess the legal framework,' he told GB News.

'But I think it falls some way short in satisfying those tests. That's my gut instinct

'And therefore whilst the Prime Minister continues to have a protocol effectively still be in operation, that will effectively still see ECJ rule in Northern Ireland, that will still see us subject to single market rules as opposed to fully UK rules, unfortunately that means that powersharing does not look like it's coming back any time soon.'

Mr Paisley added: 'So far my gut instinct is this does not cut the mustard.'

Mr Sunak told the press conference this afternoon: 'For a quarter of a century the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement has endured because at its heart it is respectful to the aspirations and identity of all communities. Today's agreement is about preserving that delicate balance and charting a new way forward for the people of Northern Ireland.

The slick document published by the government today outlining the terms of the new deal

Keir Starmer has said Labour will back the government in any vote on the package

'Today's agreement delivers the smooth flow of trade within the United Kingdom. Goods destined for Northern Ireland will travel through a new green lane with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU.

'Food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry and we will end the situation where food made to UK rules could not be sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. This means that if food is available on supermarket shelves in Great Britain, then it will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland.'

Referencing the process of sending parcels and VAT, he said: 'This means we have removed any sense of a border in the Irish Sea. Second, we have protected Northern Ireland's place in the Union.'

Ms von der Leyen said she took 'pride' in delivering on the commitment to fix the issues with the Northern Ireland Protocol.

'This new framework will allow us to begin a new chapter,' she said.

'It provides for long-lasting solutions that both of us are confident will work for all people and businesses in Northern Ireland. Solutions that respond directly to the concerns they have raised.

'Prime Minister, we worked hard across a wide range of areas. The new arrangements are delivering a comprehensive package so that we can address in a definitive way the issues faced in everyday lives.'

Ms von der Leyen stressed that 'the European Court of Justice is the sole and ultimate arbiter of EU law'. 'That's natural because it's prescribed by the EU order. So the ECJ will have the final say in EU law and single market decisions.'

But she said that through the new framework each side has 'worked hard' to add the new Stormont brake.

'This new framework will allow us to begin a new chapter,' she said.

'It provides for long-lasting solutions that both of us are confident will work for all people and businesses in Northern Ireland. Solutions that respond directly to the concerns they have raised.

'Prime Minister, we worked hard across a wide range of areas. The new arrangements are delivering a comprehensive package so that we can address in a definitive way the issues faced in everyday lives.'

Tory Eurosceptics were largely keeping their powder dry this morning.

But Northern Ireland minister and self-styled 'Brexit hard man' Steve Baker - who has been on 'resignation watch' over the past few days - said the government had done a 'fantastic' deal.

He said 'pragmatic' colleagues should 'bank the success and move on'.

In an ominous intervention last week, Boris Johnson (pictured today) told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak chat as they go into the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel today

EU commission chief Ursula von der Leyen took the Eurostar to London ahead of the meeting with the PM in Windsor

Education Secretary Gillian Keegan (left) and Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden (right) were in Downing Street for the Cabinet meeting this afternoon

Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt was at the Cabinet discussion to sign off the deal today

Ms von der Leyen will also hold talks with King Charles - raising fears that the monarch is being dragged into politics

Former DUP leader Arlene Foster was scathing about the decision to tie in a meeting between Ms von der Leyen and the King

Northern ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris in Downing Street today

Ms von der Leyen also held talks with King Charles during her visit to Windsor.

That caused a wave of anger among DUP and Eurosceptic figures that the monarch is being dragged into the contentious politics of Brexit.

Buckingham Palace seemed to point the finger at ministers by saying the government had advised that the King should meet the visiting dignitary.

Ex-DUP leader Arlene Foster tweeted: 'I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one.

'It's crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the King's decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.'

Mr Rees-Mogg said was 'constitutionally unwise' for the King to meet EU chief Ursula von der Leyen around the signing of the new post-Brexit deal on Northern Ireland.

The leading Conservative Brexiteer said: 'It is surprising that the King will meet Ursula von der Leyen today as it antagonises the people the Prime Minister needs to conciliate.

'It is also constitutionally unwise to involve the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.'

The PM's official spokesman said Rishi Sunak believes 'fundamentally' the decision was for Buckingham Palace.

'He firmly believes it's for the King to make those decisions,' the official said.

'It's not uncommon for His Majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today.'

The PM held private talks in No 10 with Mr Baker yesterday in a sign of concern about resignations, while a survey by the grass-roots Conservative Home website found Tory activists oppose the idea of Mr Sunak's plan by 41 per cent to 36.

Before the announcement former Brexit minister Lord Frost urged the PM to revive the controversial Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, saying it was vital to be 'really tough' with Brussels.

The European Research Group (ERG) of Tory MPs said it will establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to examine whether the new deal meets their sovereignty tests.

Meanwhile, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said it was a 'red line' for his party that 'there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK'.

In an ominous intervention last week, Mr Johnson told the PM that the 'best way forward' would be to take unilateral legal powers to scrap the EU's trade checks in Northern Ireland.

What IS in the Windsor Agreement? Will it be enough for to win over hardliners? Key details of Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal for Northern Ireland explained and what happens next

Rishi Sunak's Windsor Framework, the new Brexit package for Northern Ireland, is the result of months of painstaking negotiation.

The PM has been deeply involved in hammering out new terms, despite warnings from many quarters that he is putting his premiership on the line.

There has been a desperate push from both sides to make progress before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement this spring.

Mr Sunak this afternoon insisted that he had received significant concessions from Brussels in a bid to win over critics in the Democratic Unionist Party and on his own Tory backbenches.

In come red and green customs lanes splitting goods destined for domestic consumption from those going on to Ireland within the EU, to reduce the impact if checks.

There are also changes to VAT rules giving the UK full control of excise duties, and new medicines rules that allow the free movement of pets.

And in perhaps the most eye-catching of changes, the Stormont assembly will get a veto over new EU goods laws, and whether they should apply in the province.

However, it remains to be seen whether it will b enough to win over the DUP and its allies, with the European Court of Justice retaining a role in arbitration. Its removal is one of their key sticking points.

The UK and EU are unveiling a new deal on Brexit terms for Northern ireland today

What's the problem with the existing deal?

One of the main problems during the Brexit process was how to treat Northern Ireland.

When the UK became a 'third country', the situation would have been simply solved by creating a 'hard' border with physical checks on vehicles and people.

But that is forbidden by the The Good Friday Agreement, which drew a line under decades of sectarian violence in 1998.

That pact was carefully ambiguous about the status of Northern Ireland, allowing unionists and republicans to claim they had stood by key principles. That relied on both the UK and EU being under the same customs and regulatory regimes.

Boris Johnson agreed the Protocol in the original divorce terms. It attempted to resolve the issues by drawing a supposedly 'invisible' customs line in the Irish Sea, and leaving Northern Ireland in the EU single market.

However, unionists pointed out that the customs border was far from seamless, and have objected in principle to the idea that Northern Ireland follows a foreign power's regulatory rules - without any say over how those rules are set.

How has that affected Northern Ireland politics?

There have been worrying signs of a rise in violent sectarian tensions in Northern Ireland.

The DUP has always demanded the scrapping of the protocol, and forced the suspension of Stormont in February 2022 by refusing to participate in powersharing.

The Good Friday Agreement dictates that both the largest unionist and the largest republican parties must nominate the first minister and deputy first minister roles for the administration to function.

After Northern Ireland elections in May 2022 Sinn Fein emerged as the largest party overall for the first time - meaning they should hold the First Minister role. However, the DUP has continue to boycott the executive.

The UK government is usually obliged to call elections in these circumstances, but they look unlikely to produce a different outcome and have been delayed while a deal is thrashed out.

What has Sunak managed to get from the EU?

The new Windsor Framework was announced by Mr Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, with the Prime Minister claiming that the agreement 'removes any sense of a border in the Irish Sea'.

The Prime Minister set out a wider array of planned changes and reforms, covering trade, VAT regulation and the role of Stormont in EU laws that apply to Northern Ireland.

At the core of the deal is the creation of a new system for the flow of goods.

Anything destined for Northern Ireland will travel there as part of a 'green lane', with significantly fewer checks. Anything that could cross the border and enter the EU's single market will travel through a separate red lane.

Mr Sunak said that the changes to the protocol will scale back the number of certificates required for traders moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, with customs paperwork removed too for people sending parcels or buying goods online.

He indicated changes to the movement of food too, claiming that anything made to UK rules will now be clear to be 'sent to and sold' in NI. That will include sausages, one of the foodstuffs hit by protocol changes and which grabbed the attention of politicians in Belfast and Westminster alike.

'If food is available on supermarket shelves in Great Britain, then it will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland,' Mr Sunak said.

As part of the deal, the legal text of the protocol has also been amended on VAT. Under current arrangements, EU VAT and excise rules for goods generally apply in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said that would now change, with the legal text of the protocol amended to allow the UK Government to 'make critical VAT and excise changes for the whole of the UK'.

Alcohol duty, for instance, was mentioned - with Mr Sunak suggesting that the cost of a pint in the pub could be cut for Northern Irish drinkers.

There has been a desperate push from both sides to make progress before the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement this spring

How will Northern Ireland politicians be able to 'veto' laws?

Mr Sunak said that a 'Stormont brake' would be introduced to allow the Northern Ireland assembly to flag concerns about changes to EU rules that would have a 'significant and lasting' effect.

This is being billed as a veto on new EU rules regarding customs, goods, and agriculture being introduced in Northern Ireland, even if it means diverging from rules across the border in Ireland.

It will operate under the same framework as the 'Petition of Concern' system set up by the Good Friday Agreement 25 years ago.

In order to go forward the petition needs the support of at least 30 members of the Stormont Assembly, representing at least two parties. The system was set up to ensure cross-party consent for issues.

But the PoC does not automatically mean an EU law is vetoed. It means the complaint is sent to the UK Government and it then intercedes with Brussels as the national government.

The Framework document also contains measures designed to prevent it from being used willy-nilly. It notes: 'The Brake will not be available for trivial reasons: there must be something ''significantly'' different about a new rule, whether in its content or scope, and MLAs will need to show that the rule has a ''significant impact specific to everyday life'' that is liable to persist.'

However, in a nod to DUP complaints, arguments over the use of the break between the UK and EU will not fall under the jurisdiction of the ECJ.

So what is the role of the ECJ now?

The ECJ had been final arbitrator of EU law issues in the region, given the fact that Northern Ireland essentially remains within the single market for goods.

Speaking to reporters, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the ECJ is the 'sole and ultimate arbiter of EU law' and will have the 'final say' on single market decisions. But the UK document makes it clear that there are exceptions.

The Framework document says there will be 'a form of dual regulation ... reflecting that by far the greatest portion of Northern Ireland's economic life will continue to be based on trade within the United Kingdom'.

'As a result over 1,700 pages of EU law - with accompanying European Court of Justice (ECJ) jurisdiction - are disapplied, meaning that core UK trade is based on core UK internal market rules, whether citizens and businesses are based in Belfast or Birmingham,' it adds.

'This will ensure, for example, that the same UK food safety laws apply for retail goods moved into Northern Ireland; that VAT and excise rates apply UK-wide; and that medicines licensing will always be undertaken by the UK regulator for patients in Northern Ireland - without jeopardising access for Northern Ireland pharmaceutical firms to the EU market.'

Will it be enough to win over the DUP and Tory Eurosceptics?

The numbers do look smaller than previous Tory revolts, meaning that Mr Sunak has a good chance of carrying a Commons vote on the new package.

Although formally there is not a requirement for a vote, the government is almost certain to hold one - not least because backbenchers and Labour would find a way of forcing it otherwise.

There is no chance of a DUP endorsement today. In a statement its leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said: 'In broad terms it is clear that significant progress has been secured across a number of areas whilst also recognising there remain key issues of concern. There can be no disguising the fact that in some sectors of our economy EU law remains applicable in Northern Ireland.

The ERG, however, is expected to meet to discuss the deal tomorrow night. Its former leader, Steve Baker, is now a minister who helped secure the agreement. He said it should be enough to satisfy 'reasonable unionists'.

'The DUP will want to study the detail of what has been published today as well as examining the detail of any and all underpinning legal texts. Where necessary we stand ready to engage with the Government in order to seek further clarification, re-working or change as required.'

The ERG, however, is expected to meet to discuss the deal tomorrow night. Its former leader, Steve Baker, is now a minister who helped secure the agreement.

He said it should be enough to satisfy 'reasonable unionists'. He told the BBC: 'There are unionists who would dig a moat between the North and the South, those unionists will never be happy.

'But I think for reasonable unionists - and the DUP are determined but reasonable unionists - I think this deal will be good enough. And if it's not, I'm really not sure what we're going to do for them.'

What about Boris Johnson's Brexit Bill?

Boris Johnson's controversial legislation to override post-Brexit rules on Northern Ireland has been dumped by Rishi Sunak after he negotiated a new deal with the European Union.

Brussels agreed in turn that it will scrap its legal action against the UK launched in retaliation to the former prime minister's Northern Ireland Protocol Bill.

Mr Johnson had been warning his successor that scrapping the legislation would be a 'great mistake'.

But the Government's new 'Windsor Framework', finalised with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, said it was no longer needed.

'The Government will therefore not be proceeding with the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill,' it reads.

'In turn, the EU will not proceed with the seven separate legal actions it has launched against the United Kingdom - on issues from parcels to pets - reflecting the shared desire for a positive bilateral relationship now and into the future.'

The commission welcomed the UK agreeing to let the Bill, currently stalled in the House of Lords, to lapse at the end of the parliamentary session.

'These arrangements, when implemented, mean that there will no longer be grounds for the existing Commission legal proceedings against the United Kingdom relating to the Protocol on Ireland / Northern Ireland,' a statement said.
Rishi Sunak has paid tribute to Betty Boothroyd after the first ever female Commons Speaker died aged 93 - following a political career that lasted half a century.

The Prime Minister said Baroness Boothroyd 'was as firm as she was fair' during his tribute, adding that her 'immeasurable contribution to our democracy will never be forgotten'.

'She presided over many historic moments in this house, among them the debates from the Belfast Good Friday Agreement,' he said.

Lady Boothroyd gained respect from both sides of the House for her charm and 'no-nonsense' style in the chair from 1992 to 2000.

The trailblazer, a former professional dancer with the Tiller Girls, was an MP for 27 years and went on to sit in the Lords for Labour for a further two decades.

Flags are flying at half mast in Westminster following the news and MPs took part in a minute's silence in the Commons at the start of business this afternoon.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed the passing of 'a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to politics', while Theresa May praised her 'inimitable style, but also her immense personal warmth and kindness'.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: 'Betty Boothroyd was an incredible and inspirational woman.

Baroness Boothroyd (pictured in 1993) served as Speaker between 1992 and 2000

Rishi Sunak has paid tribute to Betty Boothroyd after her death, saying she was 'as firm as she was fair'

Flags are flying at half mast in Westminster following the news and MPs took part in a minute's silence in the Commons at the start of business this afternoon.

The then Miss Betty Boothroyd electioneering for a seat in the Nelson and Colne by-election in 1968

Thurty years later, in 1998, she posed with her Madame Tussaud's wax double outside the Speaker's House in Westminster.

Lady Boothroyd in her time as a dancer. She performed with the Tiller Girls at the London Palladium but a foot infection ended her career and she turned to politics

The former Speaker welcoming the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh to a dinner in Westminster in 1996

Baroness Boothroyd was the first woman to hold the role and enjoyed respect from all sides of the House

MPs from across the political spectrum have been paying tribute to the former MP

'As Speaker, she was at the forefront of a generation that smashed the glass ceiling for female politicians. She made the role her own, with a wit and style that will never be replicated.'

Lady Boothroyd never married and once insisted that although she was a loner she had never been lonely.

Lindsay Hoyle, the current Commons Speaker, said: 'Not only was Betty Boothroyd an inspiring woman, but she was also an inspirational politician, and someone I was proud to call my friend.

'To be the first woman Speaker was truly ground-breaking and Betty certainly broke that glass ceiling with panache.

'She was from Yorkshire, and I am from Lancashire  so there was always that friendly rivalry between us. But from my point of view, it was heartening to hear a Northern voice speaking from the chair.

'She stuck by the rules, had a no-nonsense style, but any reprimands she did issue were done with good humour and charm.

'Betty was one of a kind. A sharp, witty and formidable woman  and I will miss her.'

Lady Boothroyd was unafraid to make her feelings known to her successors in the job, with Sir Lindsay admitting in a 2020 interview she "gets me put in my place" with regular phone calls telling him whether he is getting things right or wrong, and encouraging him to "tell him (the Prime Minister) straight".

And in April 2019 she publicly criticised then speaker John Bercow over his attitude to Donald Trump addressing Parliament during a state visit while he was US president.

Born in Dewsbury, in Yorkshire, Lady Boothroyd worked as a professional dancer from 1946 to 1948 and appeared in pantomime in London's West End before going into politics, unsuccessfully contesting four parliamentary seats before being elected to West Bromwich (later to become West Bromwich West) in May 1973.

Baroness Boothroyd was Speaker between 1992 and 2000, straddling the final years of John Major's Tory government the first phase of Tony Blair's administration.

She took on the job less than three years after TV cameras were allowed to broadcast live proceedings from the chamber.

She was an MP from 1973 until entering the Lords in 2001.

She initially represented Labour and then, as is customary, sat as an independent during her time as Speaker.

Mother of the House Harriet Harman said: 'For her, as a woman to get to chair the over-whelmingly male Commons she had to be tough, professional, authoritative and indomitable. Betty was all those things. And she showed us women how to do it!'

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly tweeted: 'A real trailblazer. Rest in peace Ma'am.'

Former Cabinet minister David Davis said: 'Very sad news that Betty Boothroyd has died.

'Although I had my differences with her, she was a formidable Speaker and had a historic place as the first female Speaker of the House of Commons.'

No-nonsense MP who sealed her place in history after becoming first female Speaker: How 'national institution' Betty Boothroyd went from teenage dancer to political household name who kept boisterous male politicians in check

There was one place that Betty Boothroyd loved 'more than anything or anyone in the world' - the House of Commons.

It was where she brought order to the chaotic, vibrant and noisy green benches.

And commanded an energy so infectious that it loosened up even the stiffest of grandees.

Boothroyd sealed her own footnote in history by becoming the first female to serve as Madame Speaker when she was elected on April 27, 1992.

Many fell on the receiving end of her no-nonsense approach, including Tory MP Iain Duncan-Smith when he once tried to make an intervention in the chamber.

Boothroyd told him: 'Order. I have not finished.'

Baroness Boothroyd was Speaker between 1992 and 2000, straddling the final years of John Major's Tory government the first phase of Tony Blair's administration.

Apart from the novelty of her gender as Speaker, history will record her as one of the outstanding holders of the office, certainly in the 20th century.

Viewers at home, once Parliament was televised in 1989, and MPs in the chamber knew what to expect at the end of the weekly PMQs as Boothroyd signed off with her classic phrase: 'right, time's up.'

She made the role her own, both in style and substance, by choosing not to wear the traditional speaker wig as she wanted to be comfortable.

Boothroyd also wore custom-made robes from London's top couturier Hardy Amies, labelling them as representing the 'best of British classic design and workmanship'.

The breath of fresh air that she brought as Speaker gained the admiration of her colleagues who crowned her as Parliamentarian of the Year in 1992.

This may have also helped Boothroyd top a newspaper poll asking readers who they would nominate as president if the country became a republic.

As Madame Speaker she rubbed shoulders with leaders across the world including a state visit of South African president Nelson Mandela in 1996.

And Prime Minister Tony Blair hailed her as a 'national institution'.

She was MP for West Bromwich from 1973 until entering the Lords in 2000.

Boothroyd felt her strength 'lay in knowing the mood, the temper and the procedures of the House of Commons,' adding: 'I knew how the place worked, by coming up through the ranks in a way no previous Speaker had ever done.'

Betty Boothroyd's upbringing was unlike the scores of Eton and Oxbridge-educated MPs who were churned through the Commons.

She was born on October 8, 1929, to a working-class family in the manufacturing town of Dewsbury, Yorkshire.

Betty was the only child of Ben Archibald Boothroyd and wife Mary who were both textile workers.

Following in her parents' footsteps, by joining the Labour Party at 16, served to further quench Betty's political appetite.

She went to Eastborough School and was scouted by the Tiller Girls at 17.

Betty recalled the group being 'famous for their precision dancing' in her self-titled autobiography published in 2001.

But her father, who tried to stop her dancing full-time, died at the age of 62 in March 1948 when she was 18-years-old.

She was invited to for a local audition by the John Tiller School in London in the winter of 1946-7, where she was paid about three pounds a week for rehearsals.

Betty performed at the London Palladium but a foot infection from a nail ended her hopes of making it to the Tiller line at London's Victoria Palace.

Betty Boothroyd with MPs Margaret Beckett, Mo Mowlam, and Ann Taylor sampling 'Femme Fatale' Beer at the Houses of Parliament in 1995

She later recalled that her Tiller days not only taught her much about 'the need for rigorous preparation' but were 'a tough lesson in survival, the first of many.'

Despite a foot infection ending Betty's dancing dreams, she caught the 'political bug' which would shape the rest of her life.

Betty was working in politics full time by 19.

By May 1952 she stood for a 'hopeless' seat in Dewsbury's town council elections but lost by narrow margin.

Boothroyd tasted political defeat again, at 25, when she was chosen in July 1956 to fight the seat in Leicester.

And she suffered the same fate when standing to represent the constituencies of Peterborough, Nelson and Colne and Rossendale.

But it took another 18 years, at the fifth time of trying in 1973, that she entered the Commons at 43 by winning the West Bromwich by-election and doubling Labour's majority.

A working-class woman from Yorkshire had beaten the odds and ended up in Westminster.

A year later, in 1974, she was made a government whip tasked with drumming up support and ensuring her party's MPs toed the line.

She also became an MEP in the European Parliament in 1975, before serving as a member of Labour's national executive committee.

Boothroyd never married and said she had 'no family complications to the arduous commitments of political life'.

She told The Times in July 1982: 'I thank my lucky stars there is nobody around to add to the aggro of hunger and tiredness.

'Many times I have been told I need the experience of bringing up kids and standing at a kitchen sink.'

But it was Boothroyd's political experience that saw her appointed as a Deputy Speaker in 1987.

She served under Speaker Bernard Weatherill who stood down in 1992.

Three Labour colleagues, Gwyneth Dunwoody, George Robertson and Giles Radice, urged her to go for the role.

She was elected speaker, at 62, on April 27,1992 by 372 votes to 238.

Boothroyd said: 'For me, the Commons has never been just a career. It's my life.'

Her achievement was even more remarkable considering she was one of only 19 female MPs elected to parliament in 1979.

This figure rose to 60 by the time she became Speaker.

But one of Boothroyd's toughest moments as Speaker came in June 1993.

She had to warn the former Northern Ireland minister Michael Mates to toe the line nine times over accusations which could have led to him being in contempt of court.

Boothroyd said she was 'embarrassed' over breaking the rule that such statements are heard in silence.

Betty Boothroyd was born on October 8 1929, the daughter of textile workers in Dewsbury, Yorkshire, where she attended council schools, followed by a spell at Dewsbury Technical College of Commerce and Art. She worked as a professional dancer from 1946 to 1948 and appeared in pantomime in London's West End as a member of the Tiller Girls' chorus line.

Boothroyd retired at 70 as Madame Speaker and an MP in October 2000, insisting that the correct protocol was for a Speaker to stand down mid-term and never at the end of a parliamentary session.

A life peerage followed in January 2001 where she sat in the House of Lords as Baroness Boothroyd of Sandwell.

An honour from the Queen the Order of Merit - was granted to her in April 2005.

A year later she stepped down as chancellor of the Open University, a role she held since 1994.

Boothroyd was also awarded with the Freedom of the City of London and honorary degrees from the universities of Oxford, Cambridge and St Andrews.

In 2014 the National Portrait Gallery commissioned a painting to celebrate her work as Speaker.

Artist Brendan Kelly was told by Baroness Boothroyd that he had in front of him someone who was a 'fighter'.

She continued to embrace British politics to its fullest with her membership of the Lords and Commons Pipe and Cigar Smokers' Club.

But Baroness Boothroyd's outspoken nature persisted even at 91.

The rollout of the second dose Covid-19 Pfizer jab, which she felt had been too slow, saw her label the Government as behaving 'like a dictatorship'.

In 2021 She and six other peers were investigated for missing a parliamentary sexual harassment course.

The investigation was dropped because Baroness Boothroyd was recovering from an open-heart surgery.

Boothroyd's career was shaped by 'setbacks', 'a tough lesson in survival' and 'rigorous preparation'.

But it was the worlds of dancing and politics that made Betty Boothroyd who she was.

Reflecting on her journey, she wrote: 'Politicians, like Tiller Girls, are public performers  they forget it at their peril.'
Temperatures are set to fall five degrees below average in parts of the country while possible flooding could hit the north, and an intense heatwave smashes the west.

Cooler weather is expected to move from Victoria on Tuesday and spread across NSW and southeast Queensland over the next couple of days.

A blistering heatwave will batter Western Australia with the mercury hovering in the high 30Cs while possible flooding could smash the Top End.

Temperatures are set to fall five degrees below average in parts of the country while possible flooding could hit the north and an intense heatwave smash the west

A blistering heatwave will batter Western Australia with the mercury hovering in the high 30Cs while possible flooding could smash the Top End

Sky News Weather meteorologist Rob Sharpe said Victoria would experience the chilliest weather with the mercury dropping below average.

'For the southeast corner of the country, it's notably cooler than the usual,' he said.

'Day-by-day, it's five below the average for summer and almost five below the average for autumn as well.'

Melbourne will shiver through a maximum of 19C on Tuesday before temperatures slightly rise to 21C on Wednesday before warming up to 26C on Saturday.

A southerly change will move northwards throughout the week, bringing cooler conditions along the east coast.

'The southerly change will run up the New South Wales coast on Wednesday, dropping temperatures there as well,' Mr Sharpe said.

'And by Thursday, we'll see it pushing into southeast Queensland'.

Sydney will experience a pleasant 27C on Tuesday before the mercury warms up to 29C on Wednesday.

Thunderstorms could develop in the afternoon and evening over the next two days, with light rain forecast for the remainder of the week.

Temperatures will remain around the mid-20Cs throughout the week.

Sydney will experience a pleasant 27C on Tuesday with before the mercury warms up to 29C on Wednesday

Brisbane will miss the cooler weather temperatures to rise to a maximum of 31C on Tuesday.

The mercury will increase to 33C on Wednesday before dripping to 30C by Friday.

Some 200mm of rain could fall in the Top End with a monsoon forecast to bring showers and flooding around Tennant Creek and Katherine.

Darwin could cop up to 25mm on each day for the rest of the week with temperatures reaching a maximum of 31C.

A massive heatwave will strike Western Australia bringing a high of 37C on Tuesday.

The mercury will dip slightly to 35C on Friday before falling into the 20Cs by Sunday.

The severe heat will be felt along the state's coast from Augusta to Carnarvon.

Adelaide will enjoy a string of pleasant days with the mercury expected to hhover around 24C from Tuesday.

Hobart is forecast to experience a maximum of 20C on Tuesday before the temperature warms up slightly to 22C on Thursday.
Penguin Random House has dropped Dilbert creator Scott Adams's new self-help book following a racist rant in which he branded black people a 'hate group.'

Adams's new book Reframe Your Brain was set to be published in September by Portfolio  the business imprint of Penguin Random House, but on Monday the embattled cartoonist tweeted: 'My publisher for non-Dilbert books has canceled my upcoming book and the entire backlist.'

'My book agent canceled me too,' he noted.

They are just the latest agencies to drop the 65-year-old after he described people who are black as members of 'a hate group' from which white people should 'get away' in an online video.

Major newspapers across the country dropped the Dilbert comic strip for which he became famous and earned $75million in the aftermath.

And on Sunday, comics distributor Andrews McMeel Universal announced it would no longer work with the cartoonist either.

Scott Adams, 65, the creator of the Dilbert comic strip is worth an estimated $75million

On Monday he announced that his new book 'Reframe Your Brain' will not be published by Penguin Random House as was expected

Adams lamented the loss of his book publisher online, noting that he also lost his book agent

Adams lamented the loss of his book publisher online, while claiming he still has 'not seen any disagreement about my point of view.'

It remains unclear what effect the decision to pull the book will have on Adams' $75million fortune. He has previously published books like Loserthink: How Untrained Brains Are Ruining America and How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big.

DailyMail.com has reached out to Portfolio and Adams' talent agent for comment.

The creator of the long-running comic that pokes fun at office-place culture found himself under fire last week for comments he made on his livestreamed YouTube program, Real Coffee with Scott Adams.

In the show, he referenced a Rasmussen Reports survey that had asked whether people agreed with the statement 'It's OK to be white.'

Most agreed, but Adams noted that 26 percent of black respondents disagreed and others weren't sure.

Adams, who is white, repeatedly referred to people who are black as members of a 'hate group' or a 'racist hate group' and said he would no longer 'help black Americans.'

'Based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to white people is to get the hell away from black people,' Adams said on his Wednesday show.

'Just get the f**k away. Wherever you have to go, just get away.'

Adams has come under fire after he posted a video online in which he warned white people to 'get the hell away from black people' and labeled them a 'hate group'

Almost immediately after the comments were made, several newspapers across the country announced they were dropping the Dilbert comic strip.

In a statement, Danielle Rhoades Ha, a spokeswoman for The New York Times said: 'We have decided to no longer publish the 'Dilbert' comic strip in our international print edition following racist comments by Scott Adams.'

She noted that Dilbert was published in the international print edition but not in the U.S. edition or online.

The Washington Post also said it would stop publishing Dilbert in light of 'Scott Adams's recent statements promoting segregation,' although the strip could not be prevented from running in some forthcoming print editions.

The Los Angeles Times cited Adams' 'racist comments' while announcing Saturday that Dilbert will be discontinued Monday in most editions and that its final run in the Sunday comics  which are printed in advance  will be March 12.

The San Antonio Express-News, which is part of Hearst Newspapers, said Saturday it will drop the Dilbert comic strip, effective Monday, 'because of hateful and discriminatory public comments by its creator.'

The USA Today Network tweeted Friday that it will stop publishing Dilbert 'due to recent discriminatory comments by its creator.'

The Plain Dealer in Cleveland and other publications that are part of media company Advance Local also announced they are dropping Dilbert.

'This is a decision based on the principles of this news organization and the community we serve,' Plain Dealer Editor Chris Quinn wrote. 'We are not a home for those who espouse racism. We certainly do not want to provide them with financial support.'

Christopher Kelly, vice president of content for NJ Advance Media, wrote that the news organization believes in 'the free and fair exchange of ideas.'

'But when those ideas cross into hate speech, a line must be drawn,' Kelly wrote.

Then on Sunday, Andres McMeel Universal Chairman Hugh Andrews and CEO and President Andy Sareyan said in a joint statement the syndication company was 'severing our relationship' with Adams.

They noted that the company supports free speech, but the comments by the cartoonist were not compatible with the core values of the publisher based in Kansas City, Missouri.

Newspapers across the country dropped the Dilbert comic strip following Adams' comments

The comic strip Dilbert, first published in 1989, satirizes white-collar corporate culture

Still, Adams has only doubled down on his claims, posting another video over the weekend in which he urged 'everyone' to embrace racism in the workplace as he tried to justify his remarks.

'I'm just saying: as a personal, career decision, you should absolutely be racist whenever it's to your advantage, and that's for men, for women, for black or white, Asian or Hispanic,' he said.

Adams tried to explain that his remarks 'was the opposite of racism, but also racism.'

'Who disagrees with the idea that you should stay away from pockets of people where the odds are, they're not going to like you,' he told viewers, once again claiming that he would be a victim of false allegations.

He then used his interpretation of former Vice President Mike Pence's rule about dining with other women to justify his argument, saying: 'The Mike Pence rule would say, you wanna get some distance. Now is that racist? Yeah, by definition.

'But it's racist in a personal success context, which is completely allowable.'

And on the topic of 'allowable' racism, Adams urged anyone to take advantage of bigoted practices to reap rewards.

One such practice, Adams argued, was affirmative action, claiming that a black person taking advantage of the policy is a 'racist career decision' that he 'would totally back.'

'If you're making decisions for your own personal life, you can be as racist as you want,' he said. 'That's not illegal and it's definitely not unethical.'

Adams claimed on Sunday that he was making the same points Don Lemon made in a 2013 clip, in which he advised the black community to pick up their pants and stop littering

He tweeted on Sunday: 'CNN canceled me for agreeing with Don Lemon'

He also claimed that embattled CNN host Don Lemon shared his views, tweeting out a 2013 clip of the host offering advice to the black community and writing: 'CNN canceled me for agreeing with Don Lemon.'

In the clip, which has been viewed 3.7million times since it was first published on Twitter on February 19, Don Lemon advises members of the black community in America to pull up their pants and pick up trash.

'Cause black people, if you really want to fix the problem, here's just five things you should think about doing,' the CNN host said on-air in 2013. 'Here's number five, pull up your pants.'

He explained in the two-minute clip that the trend of wearing baggy jeans with one's boxers sticking out has its roots in the prison system, where guards take away inmates' belts so they cannot be used as a weapon.

'And then it evolved into which role a prisoner would have during male-on-male sex,' said Lemon, who is openly gay. 'The one with the really low pants is a submissive one  you get my point?'

Lemon then went on to advise members of the black community not to use the N-word when talking to each other, and to pick up the trash in their neighborhood.

'Now number three, respect where you live,' he said. 'Start small by not dropping trash, littering in your own communities.

'I've lived in several predominantly white neighborhoods in my life  I rarely witnessed people littering,' Lemon claimed. 'I live in Harlem now, it's a historically black neighborhood. Every single day I see adults and children dropping trash on the ground when a garbage can is just feet away.'

Lemon also advised members of the black community to stay in school, telling his audience: 'You want to break the cycle of poverty? Stop telling kids they're "acting white" because they go to school or they're speaking proper English.'

And his final piece of advice, which he said was the most important, was 'Just because you can have a baby doesn't mean you should, especially without planning for one or getting married first.'

He cited a study showing that more than 72percent of babies born in the African American community at the time were born to unmarried parents, which he says 'means absent fathers.

'And studies show that lack of a male role model is an express train right to prison, and the cycle continues.'

Elon Musk, though, came to Adams' aid, weighing in that he believed the media was 'racist' to white and Asian people in a thread on his Twitter page.

The Twitter CEO wrote: 'For a *very* long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now they're racist against whites and Asians.

'Same thing happened with elite college and high schools in America.

'Maybe they can try not being racist.'

A 2022 Pew Research Center study into newsroom diversity in the United States found 'there is broader agreement that organizations generally treat staff fairly, regardless of age, gender, or race and ethnicity.'

White and Asian employees are among the groups most likely to say their organization treats everyone fairly.

The study also notes younger staff show 'greater racial, ethnic and gender diversity' than has traditionally been the case.
A knifeman has been shot and killed after walking into a police station and threatening officers just minutes after brutally stabbing a stranger at a train station.

The man threatened police after walking into Auburn Police Station, in western Sydney, at 12.08am on Tuesday.

He was then shot before officers performed first aid on him until paramedics arrived on scene.

A knifeman has been shot and killed after walking into a police station and threatening officers with the incident following a stabbing at Auburn Railway Station

He was then shot before officers performed first aid on him until paramedics arrived on scene

The man was taken to Westmead Hospital but died a short time later.

The man is yet to be formally identified.

It is believed he was the same man who stabbed a 28-year-old man five minutes earlier at Auburn Railway Station.

Neither man is known to one another.

The younger man was treated by paramedics at Auburn Railway Station before he was taken to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition.

A critical incident team comprised of officers from State Crime Commands Homicide Squad will now investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the discharge of a police firearm.

That investigation will be subject to independent review.
Republicans have slammed Dr Anthony Fauci for 'lying' about the origins of COVID after an Energy Department report found it was most likely from a Wuhan lab leak.

Lawmakers tore into the former chief medical adviser after he repeatedly shot down the claim during and after the pandemic.

But the 82-year-old broke his silence on Monday and again urged caution in believing the report, saying Americans need to keep an 'open mind to all possibilities'.

The Wall Street Journal report revealed this weekend that the US Energy Department now believes the virus that took over the world in 2020 leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), in China.

Republican lawmakers slammed Dr. Anthony Fauci after a bombshell Energy Department report said that COVID-19 likely leaked from a lab in China

Virologist Shi Zheng-li - nicknamed the 'Bat Lady' - is pictured in the lab. She hunted down dozens of deadly Covid-like viruses in bat caves and studied them at the WIV

Fauci told the Boston Globe on Monday: 'We must all keep an open mind to all possibilities' about the origins of the coronavirus, but added that 'we may never know.'

'I don't see any data for a lab leak,' Fauci said in the interview. 'That doesn't mean it couldn't have happened.

'But evolutionary virologists published a study in the peer-reviewed journal Science with data that 'rather strongly suggests it was a natural occurrence'  a virus that leaped from animals to humans.'

The FBI concluded in 2021 that the virus leaked from a lab and said it did so with 'moderate confidence'.

The Energy Department has switched its position and done so with 'low confidence', the WSJ reported.

US officials told the publication that although both departments are in agreement, they formed their conclusions for different reasons.

Fauci on Monday said although the FBI and the Department of Energy believe a lab leak was to blame, 'four other intelligence agencies believe it was a natural occurrence.'

He called for 'openness and transparency' as well as cooperation from China over the outbreak.

'There needs to be a lot more investigation into the origin,' he said. 'It's very difficult to do if you don't have access to the location in which it occurred.'

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning blasted what she termed 'politicization' of theories on the origins of COVID-19, after an Energy Department analysis that pointed to possibility of a leak from the Wuhan lab

The FBI also has expertise in disease and virology as it hires microbiologists and immunologists and part of its efforts to protect the country against bioterrorism and weapons.

Congressional Republicans, who have previously talked up the lab leak theory, seized on the new report as they slammed Fauci on Monday.

'Anthony Fauci lied, and millions of people died,' Sen. Marsha Blackburn tweeted. 'For years, Anthony Fauci and Biden officials called this a conspiracy.'

Sen. John Kennedy tweeted: 'Remember when I asked Dr. Fauci how he knew that China didn't lie to him and use American money for gain-of-function research in Wuhan? Fauci told me, 'you never know.' Maybe we're getting closer to knowing.'

Sen. Rand Paul retweeted a reporter who wrote: '@RandPaul asked Fauci about a lab leak. He denied it. Repeatedly.'

His wife Kelley tweeted about a time when Fauci tweeted at her husband writing: 'Senator Paul, with all due respect, you are entirely and completely incorrect. The NIH has not ever and does not now fund gain of function research in the Wuhan Institute of Virology.'

Kelley wrote: 'Fauci lied. He knew NIH and NIAID money was sent to Wuhan via intermediary EcoHealth Alliance.'

Covid DID leak from Wuhan virus lab, Energy Department concludes The Energy Department has now joins the FBI in saying virus spread from Wuhan lab Advertisement

Former Trump administration official Monica Crowley tweeted: 'Fauci and the rest of the COVID criminal cartel didn't 'get everything wrong.

They knew the truth and lied, destroying countless lives & the health of the nation. On purpose. Instead of being vilified and prosecuted, they were celebrated. There must be justice.'

Rep. Byron Donalds tweeted that he's looking forward to questioning Fauci: 'Dr. Fauci sought the limelight on the backs of the American people, their businesses, education, & quality of life. From magazine covers, Sunday shows, & elitist receptions, he ignored the science to clench power & clout. I have many questions, & I look forward to asking them.'

On Sunday, the official House Republican Twitter account posted a picture of Fauci with the words: 'Accountability is coming.'

The Energy Department made its judgment with 'low confidence' in a classified intelligence report recently provided to the White House and key members of Congress, the Journal said, citing people who had read the intelligence report.

The agency's change of tune is important because the agency is known for its expertise and oversees various US laboratories, some of which carry out biological research.

President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, said on Sunday there were a 'variety of views in the intelligence community' on the pandemic's origins.

'A number of them have said they just don't have enough information,' Sullivan told CNN.

Officials in the East Asian nation disputed the findings.

Chinese officials also responded to the report with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning accusing unnamed parties of trying to smear or vilify China.

The question of whether the global outbreak began with a spillover from wildlife sold at the market or leaked out of the Wuhan lab just eight miles across the Yangtze River has given rise to fierce debate about how to prevent the next pandemic. New studies point to a natural spillover at the Huanan wildlife market. Positive swab samples of floors, cages and counters also track the virus back to stalls in the southwestern corner of the market (bottom left), where animals with the potential to harbor Covid were sold for meat or fur at the time (bottom right)

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning accused unnamed parties of trying to smear or vilify China  even amid continued calls for China to provide full access to information from its Wuhan facility.

'Certain parties should stop rehashing the 'lab leak' narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing,' she said during a press briefing Monday.

'The origin of the novel coronavirus is a scientific issue and should not be politicized.'

She talked up Chinese cooperation with investigating agencies, although in 2021 China rejected a World Health Organization effort to hold a second phase of its investigation.

The group has denied abandoning its inquiry amid China's obstacles.

While the lab leak theory was initially dismissed as conspiracy and xenophobic, a growing number of scientists have come around to the idea the virus may have escaped during an accident at the WIV.

The research facility is less than 10 miles from an animal slaughter market where the first series of human cases were clustered.

Some experts also claim Covid's unique spike protein, which it uses to infect people, shows hallmarks of engineering.

But others have deemed those scenarios unlikely and say that there is some indirect evidence that Covid did jump from animals at the Huanan Seafood Market, where animals known to harbor Covid including raccoon dogs, hedgehogs, rats and squirrels, were kept in squalid conditions.

Direct evidence for a natural or man-made origin has yet to emerge.

After the eruption of the pandemic, Chinese officials were found to have wiped crucial databases from the lab and stifled independent investigations into the facility when questions started to be asked about its involvement.

The Energy Department has reversed its position and concluded based on new intelligence that the Covid-19 virus most likely leaked from a Chinese research lab. Pictured is the Wuhan Institute of Virology in February 2021

Researchers who fell ill with a mysterious flu-like virus months before the official Covid timeline were silenced or disappeared.

One of its chief scientists was nicknamed the 'Bat Lady' for her extensive work on coronaviruses like Covid.

In January the US Office of Inspector General openly criticized the National Institutes of Health for failing to properly keep up with US-funded virus experiments in China in the run up to the outbreak.

The federal audit looked at three taxpayer-funded research grants awarded to EcoHealth Alliance, run by British scientist Peter Daszak, between 2014 and 2021.

It found the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and EcoHealth failed to 'understand the nature of the research conducted, identify potential problem areas, and take corrective action'.

'With improved oversight, NIH may have been able to take more timely corrective actions to mitigate the inherent risks associated with this type of research,' the report added.
A California mother is begging state officials to continue looking for her five-year-old son who was swept up in floodwaters last month, as she fears they have given up on the search.

Lindsy Doan and her husband Brian have taken have been combing through the banks of the Salina River with their own shovels and trying to employ their pets as scent dogs in the hunt for their son Kyle.

When Kyle was first swept away during January's vicious flooding and storms the California National Guard deployed a legion of resources - including helicopters, drones, dive teams, sonar devices, and cadaver dogs - to find him, and Governor Gavin Newsome said 'We won't give up until we find Kyle.'

But the Doans fear that promise was empty, as the state's resources have pulled back from the search and the family has been left to orchestrate it themselves.

For the last three weekends, the family has used resources from a GoFundMe page to pay for excavators, lunches, and fuel for volunteers who have joined them in their search, but they fear without the return of the state's help their search will be in vain.

Lindsy Doan and five-year-old Kyle. The boy was swept away in flooding last month

Kyle Doan was lost during flooding on his way to kindergarten on January 9

At least 21 people were killed by the devastating flooding which tore across California in January. As Kyle's has not been recovered, he is still officially missing and not a part of that count, and Lindsy is holding out a loose hope he might somehow be alive still.

On January 9 she was driving the boy to school when she tried to drive her SUV through what appeared to be a manageable path of water flooded across a two-lane country road.

Once she entered the water the car started to fill with water and drifted into the San Marcos Creek. Lindsy was able to climb out of the car and take hold of a tree, but while she was pulling Kyle to safety they lost hold of each other and he was swept away.

She tried to swim after him, but passersby who saw her struggling in the water pulled her to safety before she herself was lost.

Since that day, all that has been found of Kyle is one of his shoes - Nike, with a yellow swoosh - and she has been hoping to catch sight of the other during her searches.

After Kyle was first lost, Governor Newsom said 'Hopefully, miracle of miracles, he'll be okay,' and even President Joe Biden expressed his support for the search.

But the Doans said those promises have fallen flat in recent weeks, and that authorities have begun to drag their feet.

'We do get this feeling like they tabled Kyle as a cold case now,' Brian told Mercury News. 'They're not being forthcoming anymore. They don't seem to want to return our calls or texts as promptly.'

'It's been excuses. 'We're waiting for the weather to get warmer. The water needs to recede more. It's too cold for the dogs to come out.' I get it. You're tired,' Lindsy wrote in a recent letter pleading Newsome for help. 'But again I ask. If it was your child, when would you give up?'

The little boy was swept away in the flooding

Lindsy and Brian Doan have both been organizing the search for their son themselves

Search crew combing waterways in search of missing Kyle Doan. His family said official efforts have waned

California Governor Gavin Newsome and President Joe Biden both said they would not rest until Kyle's body was found. His family fears those were empty promises

In the meantime, the Doans have dedicated themselves to finding Kyle on their own.

With the help of their 18-year-old son and 16-year-old daughter, they've scraping the surface of riverbeds hoping Kyle might emerge from beneath a thin layer of silt.

'We tried to do it as shallow to the ground as possible, just in case we hit anything because obviously I don't want to hurt him or damage his body,' Lindsy told Mercury News. 'We're basically scraping the sand and dirt.'

They've purchased chainsaw to cut through debris, wading boots, kayaks, and have done their best to organize the handfuls of volunteers who have arrived to help them search.

Ongoing rains have also complicated the search, preventing volunteers joining and further flooding out rivers and making them unsafe to search.

The Governor's Office of Emergency Services said last week that its 'full weight' remained behind the search, and lifted the permitting process typically required to operate excavators on riverbanks, according to Mercury News.

Despite those assurance from officials, Lindsy said was especially dispirited by their efforts when an official from San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's department told her the search may be useless as Kyle 'may very well be in the Monterey Bay by now.'
Alex Murdaugh's brother today wept as he described cleaning up Paul's brains the day after the murders because 'it felt like the right thing to do, I felt like I owed him.'

John Marvin Murdaugh, the alleged killer's younger brother, said he returned to the hunting estate with police permission after arriving to be at Alex's side on the night his wife and son were shot dead on June 7, 2021.

He said the grass where Maggie's blood-soaked body had lain was covered with dirt 'so there was really nothing to do.' But the feed room at the kennels where Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun was still covered in blood and brain matter.

John Marvin sobbed as he described the scene, telling jurors: 'I saw blood, I saw brains, I saw pieces of skull, I saw tissue - and when I say brains it could just be tissue - I don't know what I saw, it was just terrible.

'And for some reason I thought it was something that I needed to do for Paul to clean it up. It felt like it was the right thing to do, I felt like I owed him and I started cleaning.

Murdaugh wept at the defense table as his brother described cleaning up his dead son's brains that were still splattered across the feed room at the kennels the day after the killings

Buster, Paul, Maggie and Alex Murdaugh on a family vacation in Lake Keowee in May 2021 - a month before the killings

'I can promise you no mother or father or aunt or uncle should ever have to do and see what I did that day.

'I'm not blaming anybody but I was just overwhelmed and I did everything I could and I would have moments where I would stop crying for a moment, just in disbelief.'

Murdaugh wept at the defense table as his brother described the horrifying ordeal.

'At one point I called my brother Randy and told him what I was doing and he immediately told me to stop doing it, it was not good for me and it was not healthy for me to be there,' John Marvin said.

'And I couldn't stop. I had to do it for Paul. It's just what I had to do.'

He said: 'It was probably 15 or 20 minutes later, Mark Ball (a close family friend) shows up, y'all heard Mark Ball testify and came and hugged me and told me it was okay to leave. Okay to leave what was rest of Paul and that they would clean it up.'

He added: 'It's the hardest thing I've ever been through in my life.'

Earlier he described his brother's relationship with his sons, saying that 'the boys always came first' and that Maggie and Alex had a 'good marriage.'

John Marvin apologized to jurors as he started weeping: 'Excuse me I'm gonna have a hard time speaking about Paul because we had a very special relationship.'

He said 'Little Rooster', as he was nicknamed, worked at his construction vehicle rental company in the summers.

'That boy would work and whatever was asked of him he would do ... He was an excellent worker,' John Marvin said as Murdaugh grew emotional listening to the testimony about his late son.

John Marvin told the court that Paul and his older brother Buster 'always came first' for Alex. Buster was staying with his girlfriend near Charlotte the night of the killings.

John Marvin sobbed as he described walking over to the feed room. He told jurors: 'I saw blood, I saw brains, I saw pieces of skull, I saw tissue, and I don't know it was just terrible. 'And for some reason I thought it was something that I needed to do for Paul to clean it up. It felt like it was the right thing to do, I felt like I owed him and I started cleaning'

Maggie's body was found a few yards to the right of a doghouse, while Paul's was by the doorway at the end of the kennels. Dr. Ellen Riemer described how Paul's brain was blown out the back of his head by a shotgun and that the organ arrived at the morgue 'in a separate bucket'

Paul's body was found lying in the doorway of the feed room at the end of the row of dog cages at the kennels

Maggie's blood-soaked body lies under a sheet at the crime scene on the night of June 7, 2021. She was shot five times with an assault rifle, while Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun a few yards away at the kennels on the estate

MURDER SCENE: Paul's body lies outside the storage room, while Maggie lies just outside the kennels by the doghouse

'It was a great relationship anything that the boys were doing Alex wanted to do, and the boys always came first for him,' he said.

'To this day I don't believe has ever come hunting with me without his boys, since they've been old enough to hunt.'

Describing Alex's relationship with Maggie, John Marvin said they had a 'great relationship. All marriages have hiccups here and there but I'm telling you it was a good marriage.'

He recalled attending a Darius Rucker concert with his wife Liz and Maggie and Alex and how he looked down and they were 'holding hands and swaying together and [Liz] said "Why aren't you holding my hand?" So my beer got put down.'

John Marvin said his brother called him the night Maggie and Paul were shot.

'Alex called me absolutely hysterical. As soon as I herd his voice I knew something bad was going on,' John Marvin said. 'I think he said Maggie and Paul had been hurt really badly and said can you come here as fast as possible.'

He said that when he arrived at the hunting estate in Moselle, South Carolina, he ran over to his brother.

'He was just broken, he was distraught. All we did was hugged and cried. I don't even know that we talked,' John Marvin said. .

He said he went on to spend a lot of time with his brother after the killings.

Describing Alex's demeanor, John Marvin said: 'You can use any word you want to use to describe, but I can promise you words dont do it justice. I would have to create a new word to describe how distraught he was. Just terrible.'

John Marvin Murdaugh and his wife Liz outside the Colleton County courthouse Monday

Alex's younger brother John Marvin with his wife Liz, and his older brother Randy with his wife Christy, arrive at court Monday

John Marvin and his wife Liz are followed by Buster, his brother Randy and Randy's wife Christy arrive at court with the rest of the Murdaugh clan on Monday

Buster Murdaugh, center, arrives with his girlfriend Brooklynn White, Alex's sister Lynn (left) and brother John Marvin (right)

The Murdaugh clan, including John Marvin and his wife Liz (front center) Buster and his girlfriend Brooklynn White (left) and Alex's brother Randy (rear with a maroon tie) and Randy's wife Christy (blue blouse) arrive at court Monday

Alex Murdaugh arrives for the fifth week of his trial as film crews and photographers stand by

Murdaugh took the witness stand last Thursday in the latest dramatic turn in the saga to admit he lied to cops about his alibi the night his wife and son were murdered.

But the disgraced legal scion said he was telling the truth when he claimed vigilantes killed Maggie and Paul.

Prosecutors have called 61 witnesses, compared to 14 for the defense. Murdaugh's lawyers plan to rest their case Monday.

State prosecutor Creighton Waters said he then planned to call 'a couple' of reply witnesses intended to rebut defense evidence, indicating their testimony would not take a long time.

That would be followed by closing arguments and the judge instructing the jury, which could happen on Tuesday or Wednesday, Murdaugh defense attorney Dick Harpootlian said in court on Friday. The judge did not set a strict schedule.

Murdaugh during the trial has floated his own theory of who committed the murders, testifying on Friday that he believed someone angry over a deadly boating accident involving Paul had done so.

He acknowledged that he lacked evidence to support that theory.

Murdaugh arrives surrounded by sheriffs at the courthouse Monday

Buster, Maggie, Paul and Alex Murdaugh in a photo the mother posted for Father's Day in 2020

During his testimony, he also said he had deceived law partners and clients out of huge sums of money to feed his drug habit, potentially undercutting his credibility with the jury.

Under cross examination, Waters sought to portray Murdaugh as a serial liar who was under pressure due to mounting financial troubles in the months leading up to the killings.

Murdaugh admitted to lying to investigators in the aftermath of the murders by telling them he was not at the kennels on the night of the murders.

He changed his account after the jury saw cellphone video that contained audio of Murdaugh's voice that placed him at the scene minutes before investigators have said his wife and son were killed.

Murdaugh, the scion of an influential South Carolina legal family, was indicted by a grand jury in July and pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon.

The case has drawn intense media coverage given the political influence of the Murdaugh family in South Carolina.

Murdaugh's sole surviving son Buster, 26, has attended court everyday and testified last week. The disbarred attorney's brothers John Marvin and Randy and sister Lynn have also attended the Colleton County courthouse in Walterboro most days.
She claimed she was just going to the restroom - not storming the cockpit

The criminal charge against an American Airlines passenger, who allegedly tried to breach the cockpit because her drink wasn't being served quickly enough, has now been dropped.

Tiffany Miles, 36, who was on the flight from Jacksonville, Florida, to Washington, DC prompted the airline to make an emergency landing in North Carolina after she reportedly became irritated when she couldn't get her hands on an alcoholic beverage fast enough.

She was arrested on Wednesday and initially facing a misdemeanor of airport obstruction - that carries a jail sentence of 20 years.

But Miles was able to bond out of jail and on Friday learned from the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority Police Department the the charge was dismissed.

She claims that she was going to the restroom - and not trying to storm the cockpit.

Miles said she was 'relieved,' but had to speak to her legal team. She added: 'if no one is charging me now, then what is all the hoopla about?'

Tiffany Miles, 36, now claims that she was trying to get to the restroom, not storming the cockpit. Nonetheless, the flight had to make an emergency landing

Tiffany Michelle Miles, 36, of Washington DC, caused American Airlines Flight 3444 from Jacksonville to DC to divert and make an emergency landing at Raleigh-Durham International Airport shortly after 3.30pm on Wednesday

Miles reportedly became irritated that her alcoholic beverage wasn't being served fast enough and attempted to breach the cockpit

The plane made an emergency landing in North Carolina

The police issued a statement: 'After continued investigation regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident and review of eyewitness statements, plus in-depth consultation with the Wake County District Attorney, RDU law enforcement have dismissed the [charge].'

Fellow passenger Kara Rosario told ABC 11 that Miles, who was sitting in first class, became irritated that her alcoholic beverage wasn't being served fast enough. She then tried to get into the cockpit before crew members attempted to calm her down.

Another passenger who heard the commotion walked up to help the crew 'diffuse the situation', according to Rosario, who was a few rows behind Miles.

'She was upset because they weren't serving her her beverage,' Rosario said. 'She was yelling that she paid for First Class and that she's not getting her drink that she's ordered.'

And that's when the fellow passenger got up to help the crew.

'He wasn't a marshal at all or police officer just a citizen who was trying to help diffuse the situation,' Rosario told ABC 11. 'You could feel that we were in it together and were willing to do what was needed but the gentleman behind me was the first to get up and take matters into his own hands.'

Air Traffic Control audio from cockpit revealed Miles was walking around the cabin and attempted in gain entry to the cockpit.

'Subject is currently on the loose in the cabin,' the audio said. 'And [Miles] is trying to breach the cabin. [Miles] is being somewhat restrained by the flight crew and other passengers.'

The pilot then asked for Miles to be 'restrained' as soon as the plane landed.

An Air Traffic Control operator later informed the crew that a 'long gun crew is going to be on the outside, end of the aircraft.'

'They'll be standing by,' he said.

A photo taken on the flight shows Miles being escorted off by four officers and she was arrested.

The airport had put a ground stop on arriving flights when Flight 3444 landed, but it was lifted around 4pm, according to WRAL News.

No passengers were injured during the commotion and all were rebooked on different flights to Washington DC.
Whoopi Goldberg slammed recent publishers' decisions to remove 'offensive' content from Roald Dahl and Ian Fleming's James Bond novels.

She seemed particularly incensed by reports that the classic spy novels were being re-edited to remove racist content.

The publisher of the James Bond novels, Ian Fleming Publications, made the announcement shortly after Penguin Random House said that it would release edited versions of Roald Dahl's novels.

'Y'all gotta stop this, OK?' Goldberg, 67, said on The View Monday morning. 'Just put a disclaimer on it that says, "Listen, this book was written at this time," or [publish] the original.'

Most of her co-hosts on the morning talk show agreed with her  with the notable exception of Sunny Hostin, 54, who argued in favor of the woke changes.

But both publishers have since announced that they would continue to publish the original, un-edited versions following public outcry.

Whoopi Goldberg, 67, slammed recent publishers' decisions to remove 'offensive' content from Roald Dahl and Ian Fleming's James Bond novels on The View Monday morning

On The View Monday, Goldberg spoke out against censoring the classic books, noting that they were a product of their time.

'They did this with Mark Twain as well because they were so concerned the N-word was in the book  well that's how they did it,' she said. 'That's what it was.'

'We don't want people to do it today, and you don't see it as much,' she continued, explaining: 'That's how people learn.

'But maybe I'm crazy because you know I don't know about education anymore,' Goldberg lamented.

Her other co-hosts, though, seemed to agree, with Sara Haines immediately jumping in to say 'we talk all the time about history and learning and what times were like, and I think art has a unique role in that.'

She went on to say that data is important, 'but art makes you feel.

'So I think art more than anything needs to be left alone,' Haines, 45, claimed. 'Because this will show people, when they feel really uncomfortable reading a certain word, like "Oh damn."

'Like that impact could be greater than anything else, so leave it alone.'

Ana Navarro, 51, then recalled seeing the play Piano Lesson, which she said included the frequent use of the N-word, noting: 'It should make us feel uncomfortable, but it is what it is.

'It was what it was and we cannot erase history.'

And Alyssa Farah Griffin, 33, said: 'You don't want to whitewash history so much that the kids don't know it's there.'

She told how her English teacher provided her class with 'a whole conversation about why the N-word was used and the history' when they read Mark Twain.

But notoriously woke co-host Hostin disagreed, publicly supporting the edits.

Co-host Sunny Hostin pointed out that references to the N-word in Live and Let Die were replaced by terms like "black men," "black women," and "black people"

Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels in the 1950s and 1960s. They are now set to be re-released for the upcoming 70th anniversary of the character

'When you think about a book like a James Bond  and I'm a huge James Bond fan  in his Live and Let Die book, in that novel, he visits Harlem and he uses the N-word to describe almost every person that he sees there,' she said.

Under the 'sensitivity edits,' though, those words are replaced by "black man," "black woman" and "black person."

'I appreciate that,' Hostin said, noting: 'You don't have to call me the N-word for me to understand my oppression.'

And, she added: 'I think when someone who is appressed tells you that you should listen.'

The publishers of the books by Bond creator Ian Fleming commissioned a review by sensitivity readers to modernize them.

Ian Fleming Publishing then used their findings to edit the series to suit modern sensibilities before it re-releases the books for the 70th anniversary of 007 this year.

In the new version of Live and Let Die, a scene in which Bond visits a New York club is altered to remove reference to a striptease. In the 1954 original it says: Bond could hear the audience panting and grunting like pigs at the trough.

But the revised version would reportedly read: Bond could sense the electric tension in the room.

The N-word, which Fleming regularly used to refer to black people when he was writing in the 1950s and 1960s, has been removed from the revised texts. However, outdated references to other ethnicities remain, as do phrases such as the sweet tang of rape, and the description of homosexuality as a stubborn disability.

Ian Fleming Publications said it had changed terms to those more accepted today while ensuring they are in keeping with the time the books were written.

The reissued spy novels will feature a disclaimer that says: This book was written at a time when terms and attitudes which might be considered offensive by modern readers were commonplace.

A number of updates have been made in this edition, while keeping as close as possible to the original text and the period in which it is set.

Puffin Books  a subsidiary of Penguin Random House  said they would be making a number of changes to Roald Dahl's books moving forward. Roald Dahl is pictured here in an undated photo outside the shed where he wrote children's books

Publishers Puffin and the Roald Dahl Story Company have changed how Gloop (pictured far left in 1971's Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory) is described, with the character no longer called fat in new versions of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

How editors changed Roald Dahl's stories CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY 2001 - Mrs Salt was a great fat creature with short legs, and she was blowing like a rhinoceros 2022 - Mrs Salt was so out of breath, she was blowing like a rhinoceros THE TWITS 2001 - Mrs Twit may have been ugly and she may have been beastly, but she was not stupid 2022 - Mrs Twit may have been beastly, but she was not stupid. MATILDA 2001 - Get your mother or father 2022 - Get your family THE BFG 2001 - 'BFG,' she said, 'would you please tell these rather dim-witted characters exactly what to do.' 2022 - 'BFG,' she said, 'would you please tell them exactly what to do'. THE ENORMOUS CROCODILE 2001 - We eat little boys and girls 2022 - We eat little children ESIO TROT 2001 - 'I beg you to tell me Mr Hoppy! I'll be your slave for life.' 2022 - 'I beg you to tell me Mr Hoppy! You'll be my hero for life.' FANTASTIC MR FOX 2001 - Bunce, the little pot-bellied dwarf, looked up at Bean 2022 - Bunce looked up at Bean JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH 2001 - They were like a couple of hunters who had just shot an elephant 2022 - They were like a couple of hunters who had just shot their prey Advertisement

The announcement came just days after Puffin Books  a subsidiary of Penguin Random House  said they would be making a number of changes to Roald Dahl's books moving forward.

Under their edits, Augustus Gloop can now be referred to only as 'enormous'  and Charlie and The Chocolate Factory's Oompa Loompas were made gender neutral.

Mrs Twit's 'fearful ugliness' has been cut to 'ugliness' and Mrs Hoppy in Esio Trot is not an 'attractive middle-aged lady' but a 'kind middle-aged lady'.

Passages not written by Dahl, who died in 1990, have also been added by the publisher.

In The Witches, a paragraph describing them as bald under their wigs is followed shortly by a new line: 'There are plenty of other reasons why women might wear wigs and there is certainly nothing wrong with that.'

But following backlash, including from the Queen Consort herself and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Penguin said they would release two different versions of each book  the originals and the edited ones.

Francesca Dow, managing director of Penguin Random House Children's, said: 'At Puffin we have proudly published Roald Dahl's stories for more than 40 years in partnership with the Roald Dahl Story Company. Their mischievous spirit and his unique storytelling genius have delighted the imaginations of readers across many generations.

'We've listened to the debate over the past week which has reaffirmed the extraordinary power of Roald Dahl's books and the very real questions around how stories from another era can be kept relevant for each new generation.

'As a children's publisher, our role is to share the magic of stories with children with the greatest thought and care. Roald Dahl's fantastic books are often the first stories young children will read independently, and taking care for the imaginations and fast-developing minds of young readers is both a privilege and a responsibility.

'We also recognize the importance of keeping Dahl's classic texts in print. By making both Puffin and Penguin versions available, we are offering readers the choice to decide how they experience Roald Dahl's magical, marvelous stories.'

She added: 'Roald Dahl once said: 'If my books can help children become readers, then I feel I have accomplished something important.' At Puffin, we'll keep pursuing that ambition for as long as we make books.'

Puffin says it made the changes so that Dahl's works 'can continue to be enjoyed by all today'.




By John J. Metzler







The timing is terrible but intentional. The setting is suspicious. The symbolism is deeply troubling. Almost a year to the day of Vladimir Putin's invasion of neighboring Ukraine, the Russian Navy as well as Chinese Naval units are carrying out ten days of joint military exercises in the Indian Ocean with strategic but officially non-aligned South Africa.







Though we can argue this is a setting 5,500 thousand miles away from the frozen trenches of Ukraine and rather in the warm waters off South Africa, it is a poor rationalization and misses the ideological and political point of closer military coordination between Russian and Chinese naval vessels off the coast of South Africa near the ports of Durban and Richard's Bay.







Not long ago Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Moscow's peripatetic troubleshooter, (some would argue troublemaker) arrived in Pretoria, the South African capital to politically schmooze with key figures in the ruling African National Congress government. Significantly South Africa, along with many other African states, had abstained from criticism of Russia during a number of Ukraine-related U.N. votes over the past year.







Indeed part of the Russian and Chinese political outreach to South Africa is rooted in a simple if imperfect formula; they are all members of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) the economic and increasing political club of the world's five leading emerging economies. The BRICS will coincidently hold their annual Summit in Durban, South Africa in August.







Mineral and resource-rich South Africa sits alongside strategic sea lanes of communication around the Cape of Good Hope, and has long been a coveted geopolitical chess piece from the days of the former British Empire. The crucial Simon's Town Naval base is not far from Cape Town.







Though South Africa is saddled with widening corruption, crumbling infrastructure, and creeping authoritarianism, this is of little concern to either Moscow or Beijing. Rather, it is almost part of a favored model dealing with resource-rich states, whose regimes willingly dovetail with political and economic support from Russia and China as coalition clients.







Recently President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a state of disaster over electricity supply shortfalls that pushed Eskom, the state-run electric supplier, to implement load-shedding to protect the power grid from collapse.







South Africa's ruling African National Congress has long-standing historic political links to former Soviet Russia, which supported its armed struggle against the former Pretoria apartheid government, which itself during the Cold War was close to many Western countries.







Fortunately, there is considerable political push-back among South Africa's still vocal opposition parties and figures. When the Russian missile frigate Admiral Gorshkov docked in Cape Town Harbour en route to the maneuvers last weekend, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis tweeted, "We are not hosting this warship, nor is it welcome Cape Town will not be complicit in Russia's evil war." The Gorshkov vessel came with the emblazoned letter Z symbol Russia uses to support the war in Ukraine. More menacingly the ship carries hypersonic Zircon cruise missiles.







The Sino/Russian/South African maritime exercise Moisi II coincided with South Africa's Armed Forces Day.







The opposition party Democratic Alliance Shadow Defense Minister Kobus Marais stated, "While the South African government claims to be neutral, this is another of many incidents where the majority party has shown its favoritism to Russia."







Cited in the respected South African DefenseWeb, he added poignantly, that Russia's intent "is to showcase its geopolitical influence in southern Africa."







Nonetheless, the once highly rated South African Navy faces a serious state of disrepair.







Viewing the crucial economic sphere, currently South Africa's two-way trade reached $53 billion with the European Union last year compared to a paltry $750 million with Russia. U.S. two-way trade with South Africa in 2022 hit $21 billion.







Facing the ongoing Ukraine war, the African continent has emerged as a new political battleground for reinvigorated Russian and Chinese influence operations; wooing states towards Moscow and Beijing as during the Cold War. Given its geography, South Africa has become a nexus for revived competing power games between East and West.









John J. Metzler (

) is a United Nations correspondent covering diplomatic and defense issues. He is the author of "Divided Dynamism  The Diplomacy of Separated Nations: Germany, Korea, China."


Other agencies think the virus mutated in the environment

The White House on Monday was forced to admit the lack of a consensus between disparate U.S. agencies about the origins of COVID-19 following a report that Energy Department Scientists believe a laboratory leak in China was the likely cause.

'There is not a consensus right now in the U.S. government about exactly how it started. There's just not an intelligence community consensus,' said national security spokesman Adm. John Kirby.

Kirby got hit with a series of questions about the report, which pointed to the lab leak as a likely source  even as other agencies attributed the pandemic to a virus that mutated in the environment.

Kirby pointed to that lack of agreement, even as the White House defended infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci's blasts against conspiracy theories and refused to say how the U.S. might act against China if the theory that its labs were responsible holds up.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre defended infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci, following a report of an Energy Department analysis that points to a Wuhan lab leak as the origin of COVID-19

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre responded to 'political attacks' on Fauci, who 'spent his career saving lives.'

'These attacks have been counterproductive. They have not been helpful. This is someone again, his entire career, fighting for the well being and health of the American people. So I just want to call out again, it's not been helpful. Dr. Fauci himself has said he agrees with the President, that we need to get to the bottom of this,' she said.

Kirby avoided responding directly to new comments out of Beijing, which ripped what the foreign ministry termed 'politicization' of COVID-19.

'There's not been a definitive conclusion. So it's difficult for me to say, nor should I feel like I should have to, defend press reporting about a possible preliminary indication here,' Kirby explained.

'What the President wants is facts,' he said  pointing to Biden's decision to seek input from the network of national labs operated by the Energy Department.

'He wants the whole government designed to go to get those facts, and that's what we're doing and we're just not there yet,' he said.

Kirby also dodged questions about whether the intelligence community would make its conclusions about COVID-19 public, as Senate Republicans called for the administration to release intelligence information that underlies the Energy Department's conclusions.

'We're just not there yet. When we're there, if we have something that is ready to be briefed to the American people and the Congress, then we're going to do that,' he said.

'Let's not get ahead of where we are in the process right now. There is not a consensus on what caused COVID to start,' Kirby said.

The response from the White House podium came after China's foreign ministry pushed back at the Energy Department's analysis that the outbreak likely originated with a leak from a Chinese research lab in Wuhan.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning accused unnamed parties of trying to smear or vilify China  even amid continued calls for China to provide full access to information from its Wuhan facility.

'Certain parties should stop rehashing the "lab leak" narrative, stop smearing China and stop politicizing origins-tracing,' she said during a press briefing Monday

'The origin of the novel coronavirus is a scientific issue and should not be politicized,' the Wall Street Journal wrote following its own report Sunday on the new Energy Department findings about an accidental leak, rather than a likely origin that jumped from animals in close contact with humans.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning blasted what she termed 'politicization' of theories on the origins of COVID-19, after an Energy Department analysis that pointed to possibility of a leak from the Wuhan lab

She talked up Chinese cooperation with investigating agencies, although in 2021 China rejected a World Health Organization effort to hold a second phase of its investigation. The group has denied abandoning its inquiry amid China's obstacles.

Congressional Republicans, who have previously talked up the lab leak theory, seized on the new report.

'Re. Chinas lab leak, being proven right doesnt matter. What matters is holding the Chinese Communist Party accountable so this doesnt happen again,' tweeted Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) tweeted the report on the Energy labs, adding: 'For years, Anthony Fauci and Biden officials called this a conspiracy,' she wrote, going after the former head of the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

The Energy Department, which maintains a group of national labs, now joins the FBI in getting behind the possibility of a lab leak as the possible origin of the virus  although it reached the conclusion with 'low confidence' and numerous other agencies back a traditional spread originating in the environment.

The Energy Department has reversed its previous position and has used new research to conclude that the COVID-19 virus most likely leaked from a Chinese research lab.

The new conclusion was issued in an update to a 2021 document prepared by Director of National Intelligence and was recently provided to White House lawmakers, the Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday.

The Energy Department has now therefore joined the FBI in saying the virus likely spread from a lab in Wuhan. However, four other agencies are still said to favor the 'natural spillover' theory that the virus escaped via an animal at a nearby meat market. Two agencies, one of which is the CIA, are yet to declare a definitive position.

The Energy Department's change of tune is important because the agency is known for its expertise as it oversees various US laboratories, some of which carry out biological research.

The Energy Department has reversed its position and concluded based on new intelligence that the Covid-19 virus most likely leaked from a Chinese research lab. Pictured is the Wuhan Institute of Virology in February 2021

White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN on Sunday that there was still 'no definitive answer'

The FBI concluded in 2021 - with what it said was 'moderate confidence' - that the virus leaked from a lab. The Energy Department has switched its position and done so with 'low confidence', the WSJ reported.

US officials told the publication that although both departments are in agreement, they formed their conclusions for different reasons.

The FBI also has expertise in disease and virology as it hires microbiologists and immunologists as part of its efforts to protect the country against bioterrorism and weapons.

The government officials who revealed the Energy Department's change of stance would not comment on what new intelligence it based its conclusion on.

White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN on Sunday that there was still 'no definitive answer'.

'Here's what I can tell you. President Biden has directed, repeatedly, every element of our intelligence community to put effort and resources behind getting to the bottom of this question,' he said.

'If we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress, and we will share it with the American people. But right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question.'

Sullivan pointed to a 'variety of views in the intelligence community. 'Some elements in the intelligence community have reached conclusions on one side, some on the other. A number of them have said they just dont have enough information to be sure.'

Virologist Shi Zheng-li - nicknamed the 'Bat Lady' - is pictured in the lab. She hunted down dozens of deadly COVID-like viruses in bat caves and studied them at the WIV

In January, the US Office of Inspector General openly criticized the National Institutes of Health for failing to properly keep up with US-funded virus experiments in China in the run-up to the outbreak.

The federal audit looked at three taxpayer-funded research grants awarded to EcoHealth Alliance, run by British scientist Peter Daszak, between 2014 and 2021.

It found the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and EcoHealth failed to 'understand the nature of the research conducted, identify potential problem areas, and take corrective action.

'With improved oversight, NIH may have been able to take more timely corrective actions to mitigate the inherent risks associated with this type of research,' the report added.

While the lab leak theory was initially dismissed as conspiracy and xenophobic, a growing number of scientists have come around to the idea the virus may have escaped during an accident at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

The research facility is less than 10 miles from an animal slaughter market where the first series of human cases were clustered. Some experts also claim COVID's unique spike protein, which it uses to infect people, shows hallmarks of engineering.

But others have deemed those scenarios unlikely and say that there is some indirect evidence that COVID did jump from animals at the Huanan Seafood Market, where animals known to harbor COVID including raccoon dogs, hedgehogs, rats and squirrels, were kept in squalid conditions.

Direct evidence for a natural or man-made origin has not been publicized.
To some it looked suspiciously like a crude piece of news management of the kind we once associated with Tony Blair's New Labour.

As Unionists and Tory MPs railed about being kept in the dark over Rishi Sunak's new Brexit deal with Brussels, enter King Charles.

The monarch's private meeting with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor was clearly more than diplomatic box-ticking. He had after all been on standby for a similar meeting last Friday  until negotiations ground to a halt before picking up over the weekend. Surely there was something symbolic in the location too. The Fairmont Hotel, where the two leaders met, was just a few minutes' drive from Windsor Castle where the monarch's standard fluttered imperiously over proceedings.

Last night, as Westminster and Ulster politicians pored over the details of the Windsor Framework, an agreement hailed by both Downing Street and the EU, a critical question remained: was Charles's presence used to bounce potential opponents  Ulster's DUP and hardline Brexiteers  into supporting it?

And while no one can doubt Charles's willingness to help secure the long-term stability of a part of the kingdom he has developed a special affection for, his involvement also invites a worrying question. If he is asked to do the Government's bidding on one unpopular mission, might he not be asked to do it again?

King Charles III receives European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen during an audience at Windsor Castle, Berkshire. Picture date: Monday February 27, 2023

To this, you might well observe that under the terms of our constitutional monarchy, that is precisely what we expect of our Sovereign, who is obliged to act as the government of the day sees fit.

All the same, there was a sense of unease in royal circles that the Windsor Framework could lead to a growing politicisation of the monarchy.

Why, they were asking, did Charles have to meet Frau von der Leyen now, when it may have been more appropriate to have met her after his set-piece trips to Germany and France, his first two official state visits as King?

Certainly the King's involvement was being viewed in some quarters as a deeply cynical exercise. The one thing that unites the Eurosceptics of the European Research Group of Tory MPs and the Democratic Unionist Party is patriotism and their support for the Crown. Cloaking Charles in the deal was tantamount to challenging its critics to risk being seen as anti-monarchy.

'Would they dare oppose an agreement that appeared to have royal support?' asked one political figure. 'They could find that position morally difficult and counter-productive with their own base which is instinctively 'pro' the Royal Family.'

Conversely, the calculation could be put that patriotic Unionists  as well as Brexiteers  might choose to support a deal that appeared to be endorsed by the King. Of course, for King Charles, there are pitfalls in this strategy.

As Prince of Wales, he was often accused of political partisanship and meddling. Reassuringly for him, however, the charges over the years came from both the Labour and Tory ranks. During the early 1990s there were anxieties from the John Major government about the stance the prince took on social policies including inner-city decay, homelessness and poverty.

A decade later during the Blair era, the emergence of his so-called 'black spider' memos and letters led to complaints from ministers of royal interference on a whole host of issues, from human rights legislation to the safety of British troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was against this background that he took the step of publicly declaring he would no longer campaign as he had been doing once monarch. 'I'm not that stupid,' he memorably said at the time.

Britain's King Charles III receives European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during an audience at Windsor Castle, Windsor, England, Monday Feb. 27, 2023

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivers a statement to Parliament on Monday night about the Northern Ireland Protocol

Labour leader Keir Starmer responds to Rishi Sunak in the House of Commons on Monday night

Critics, of course, observed that the Queen had never had to utter such a sentiment because she had never ever displayed any political view. Indeed part of the late Queen's enduring appeal was that she did not once bare her soul to the public  unlike Charles.

Even in the era of the celebrity confessional, she has remained enveloped in mystery. The great 19th-century constitutional expert Walter Bagehot famously wrote that for the monarchy to survive, 'We must not let in daylight upon magic.' The Queen brilliantly fulfilled that edict.

RICHARD KAY: 'Since succeeding his mother, Charles has played his kingly role to perfection. There have been no untimely interventions.'

She never gave an interview in her entire reign, nor became embroiled in any large political quarrel  though her 'intervention' in the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, when in a moment of candour she told a well-wisher outside Crathie Kirk church at Balmoral ahead of the poll that people 'should think very carefully about the future', was significant.

This explains her dismay when David Cameron revealed in his memoirs how he had asked for the Queen's help in the final days of the referendum when it looked like the independence vote would prevail. Yet there were occasions, however, when the Queen was asked to further the political ambitions of her government, and pushed back. In 1972 she was sent by prime minister Edward Heath to Paris to promote Britain's entry into the then Common Market while the merits were still being discussed by Parliament.

As Robert Hardman's biography, Queen Of The World, revealed, a speech written for her by ministers included a rousing tribute to the EEC as 'a partnership speaking on great matters with one voice and gathering the genius of many'. The line was cut by Palace advisers.

In the end, the initial support for Mr Sunak's deal suggests Charles's heavyweight presence was not needed to get the agreement over the line. The King himself did not meet Mrs von der Leyen until after the formalities of the framework had been released.

Nevertheless he was there in the background, and the fact that it had been announced earlier in the day that the two would be meeting was interpreted by some as an additional part of the PM's armoury. 'To persuade the doubters,' as an insider put it.

So what then should we make of the King's role in all this, and does it suggest questions about his own judgment? Let's not forget the King is infinitely more experienced in affairs of state than our Prime Minister. The problem for Charles is that he brings a lot of baggage, both personal and political.

Nevertheless, since succeeding his mother, Charles has played his kingly role to perfection. There have been no untimely interventions. When first Liz Truss and then Rishi Sunak made it clear they did not wish him to attend the Cop27 climate change conference in Sharm El Sheikh last November, he did so without a murmur of public disagreement.

According to insiders, it would not have taken much encouragement to involve him in the Brexit deal discussions.

'He is quite geeky about Ireland and it wouldn't be at all surprising if he volunteered to help,' says a friend. 'He pays regular visits to the Irish Republic and has a lot of affinity for the people of Northern Ireland.' He also has his own political antennae, and as events played out yesterday he cannot have failed to register that Mr Sunak's deal had every chance of being a success.

Championing every corner of the United Kingdom is of course the essence of monarchy  where he must draw the line is being leant on by a Prime Minister who is massively behind in the polls and desperate for any good news. The next time the feedback may not be so positive.
Jetstar passengers have been left stranded in Ho Chi Minh City due to an issue with the door of a plane that was supposed to bring them to Melbourne

Jetstar passengers have been left 'in tears' after a hotel in Vietnam reportedly started forcing single travellers to share rooms overnight when their flight was delayed due to an issue with the plane's door.

Flight JQ64 from Ho Chi Minh City was supposed to leave at 10.30pm on Monday and arrive in Melbourne on Tuesday morning.

Jetstar confirmed an 'issue with the aircraft door' had delayed the flight, with the plane scheduled to leave on Tuesday night.

'Unfortunately, one of our flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Melbourne has been delayed due to an issue with an aircraft door, which may require a part to be flown in from Singapore,' a spokeswoman for the airline said.

'Customers are being provided with hotel accommodation and other reasonable expenses and the flight is expected to depart Ho Chi Minh City tonight.

'We never want to delay a flight but safety is always our number one priority and we apologise for the inconvenience.'

But passengers have since claimed the hotel they're staying in has started pairing up single women with single men in the rooms.

'It's now unsafe. People are in tears,' one traveller told journalist Jacqui Felgate.

'They told one poor girl who is travelling alone they will give the next single guest a key to her room when they check in.'

A Jetstar spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia the airline was 'urgently' investigating the room arrangements and said it would never make single people, especially different sexes, share rooms.

'Weve spoken to our airports team in Ho Chi Minh City and can confirm that at no point did Jetstar staff request or expect customers who arent related to share a room, not even friends or colleagues who are travelling together,' the spokeswoman said.

'We are looking into this situation as a matter of urgency to ensure all our hotel providers are following the same policy. We will also reach out to the customers involved to better understand what happened.'

The delay comes after passengers on another Jetstar plane spent seven hours on the tarmac after it made an emergency stop in Alice Springs.

The JQ30 flight from Bangkok to Melbourne took off at 9.30pm on Saturday night but was diverted to land in the Northern Territory town at 7.30am (CST) on Sunday due to a passenger having a 'serious medical emergency'.

After landing, an electrical fault was found meaning the plane's passengers were stranded until a replacement plane could be flown from Sydney.

Frustrated passengers wait onboard a Jetstar flight that was stranded for hours at Alice Springs after being diverted to land on a flight from Bangkok to Melbourne because of a medical emergency

Travellers were not allowed to disembark during the wait because Alice Springs has no international customs area.

The 320 people on the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner began posting on social media that they had spent seven hours in the grounded aircraft without food being offered.

'Passengers are having panic attacks on the plane, several children under three years old are onboard,' one passenger posted on Instagram.

'No food has been provided yet.'

Passengers were informed they would need to wait until about 6pm (CST) Sunday to be picked up by the replacement plane being flown in.

Sandwiches were eventually distributed to passengers and they were also offered the chance to disembark and stay in a sealed off space in the Alice Springs terminal.

A spokesperson for Jetstar thanked the customers for their 'patience and understanding'.

'We appreciate this has been a lengthy and frustrating delay and the experience has been very uncomfortable,' the spokesperson said

'We worked with Border Agencies, the NT Police and the local Airport Authority to provide passengers with the option to disembark into a specially partitioned section of the Airport.

'They will then transfer directly onto the replacement aircraft. We have also been working with the local Airport to provide passengers with food, drinks and snacks.'
Comes amid fears Britain does not want to upset Beijing over growing tensions

The US Energy Department concluded the Covid outbreak likely began in a lab

China must be challenged over its denials that the Covid pandemic might have been caused by a leak from one of its laboratories, an expert warned last night.

The call came amid fears Britain is turning a blind eye to the latest evidence in order not to upset Beijing, with diplomatic relations on a knife-edge over the war in Ukraine.

China is said to be considering whether to provide armed drones to Russia in the next few days.

But chemical and biological expert Colonel Hamish de Bretton-Gordon said that letting China off the hook over a possible coronavirus lab leak at Wuhan would be 'bonkers diplomacy'.

The former commander of the UK's Joint Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Regiment (CBRN) insisted Britain must demand a full and wholly transparent investigation into the origins of Covid-19.

China must be challenged over its denials that the Covid pandemic might have been caused by a leak from one of its laboratories, an expert warned. Pictured: Virologists in Wuhan in 2017

A growing number of experts now believe coronavirus leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (pictured)

He was speaking after the US Energy Department concluded the outbreak was most likely to have started with a laboratory leak, a view supported by the FBI.

A growing number of experts now believe coronavirus leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, having previously said they were 'undecided'.

Beijing has rejected the claims, saying the virus first emerged outside the country and accusing the US of political smears.

With China's foreign ministry calling on the West to 'stop stirring up the laboratory leak argument', there are concerns that Britain and other nations are suppressing the claims to prevent a diplomatic fall-out.

The US says it has intelligence that China is considering sending 100 drones and other lethal weapons to Russia as Beijing considers ramping up its support for Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. Chinese leader Xi Jinping is expected to meet with Putin in days.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping is expected to meet with Putin in days (pictured together in February 2022)

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty take part in a national minute of silence to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine

But Colonel de Bretton-Gordon  who led the Joint CBRN Regiment, a specialist expeditionary unit of the armed forces trained in the detection, identification and monitoring of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons  warned against going soft on China.

He said: 'Many in government and industry do not want to criticise the Chinese government for political and commercial reasons. I expect we do not want to give them any excuse to arm the Russians.

'But it would be bonkers diplomacy to link the investigation to arming or not arming Moscow.

'While China is a bigger threat than Russia long term, we should not fear Beijing militarily  the Chinese are untested and the nuclear balance is well in our favour.'

Referring to the millions of Covid deaths globally and two and a half years in which the world was 'brought to its knees', he asked: 'Should we turn a blind eye?

'The UK, the US, Nato and France must stand up. We need much better policing of laboratories around the world.'
The Department of Energy in the United States, which is responsible for a network of national research laboratories, has changed its mind about the biggest scientific mystery of our time.

When it comes to the origin of the Covid-19 pandemic, it now says the most likely scenario is that it began in a Chinese laboratory  and not in a wet market in the city of Wuhan.

It has stopped short of divulging what new evidence this U-turn is based on, but in reporting its change of heart to the White House and Congress, the Department implies something significant has been uncovered. This follows similar findings by the FBI, reportedly issued with 'moderate confidence'.

Damning

Certainly, those of us who have been arguing for years now that the lab-leak theory needs to be taken seriously can finally feel something of a sea-change.

When it comes to the origin of the Covid-19 pandemic, it now says the most likely scenario is that it began in a Chinese laboratory  and not in a wet market in the city of Wuhan

Incidentally, nobody seriously thinks a leak would have been deliberate. But what we do know is that the research being conducted in Wuhan was, whether it led to the pandemic or not, extremely risky. PICTURED: someone receiving their Covid-19 vaccine

Following the failure by Chinese officials to find any early evidence of infected animals in the wet market, and the failure of The Wuhan Institute of Virology to release the database of coronaviruses it was working on, alternative explanations are now impossible to ignore.

Incidentally, nobody seriously thinks a leak would have been deliberate. But what we do know is that the research being conducted in Wuhan was, whether it led to the pandemic or not, extremely risky.

The public, opinion polls show, are ahead of the official line and have for some time been largely persuaded it all began in the lab. The sheer coincidence of a bat coronavirus outbreak happening in the city where the largest bat coronavirus lab in the world was located, a long way from where the animals live naturally, is damning.

When asked privately, you'll find that most scientists and politicians agree. And yet a small band of Western virologists has managed to create an awful lot of noise in mainstream media with the insistence that this is all little more than a 'conspiracy theory'.

Such diversions began right at the start of the pandemic. Three years ago this week, a letter was published in The Lancet denouncing any speculation about a lab leak.

'We stand together to strongly condemn conspiracy theories suggesting that [Covid-19] does not have a natural origin,' wrote British scientist Dr Peter Daszak  who failed to divulge what appeared to be conflicts of interest as a close collaborator and funder of the Chinese lab.

Daszak secured 27 leading figures from the scientific establishment to sign his letter. Almost overnight, he shunted the lab-leak theory to the fringes of debate.

Pretty well every major organisation, from the World Health Organisation (WHO) to the BBC, the CIA and CNN, refused to take it seriously. Meanwhile, pro-Beijing spin doctors got to work on social media denouncing the lab-leak hypothesis  and remain active to this day.

That is what makes the announcement from Washington this week so momentous. If a U.S. government department has seen enough to change its mind, then the dam really is finally breaking.

In America, where Sino-sceptic Republicans captured control of the House of Representatives late last year, there is now increased demand for answers from Daszak and others. Democrat-run Congressional committees previously gave them the benefit of the doubt.

Pretty well every major organisation, from the World Health Organisation (WHO) to the BBC, the CIA and CNN, refused to take it seriously

Here in Britain, the Establishment appears to have worked hard to stifle any lab-leak chat.

Key figures such as Sir Patrick Vallance, still the Government's Chief Scientific Adviser, and Sir Jeremy Farrar, who recently stepped down as Director of the Wellcome Trust to take on a plum role at the WHO, collaborated in a highly influential article published in Nature Medicine journal in March 2020, which prematurely ruled out a leak. Perhaps Vallance and Farrar might now be held to account.

Britain is supposed to be one of the leading biomedical research nations in the world, with strong capabilities in virology and epidemiology. Yet as far as I can tell, none of our great research universities has even tried to get a grant to investigate the possibility of a leak.

In November 2021, I pressed the Royal Society, the foremost collective of the UK's leading scientific voices, to hold a debate on the origin of the virus. They told me they were 'not convinced that, as things stand, the specifically scientific dimensions of this question are clear enough to warrant a Royal Society sponsored debate'.

I thought: surely the very purpose of science is to debate questions that are 'not clear'.

When I pressed the Academy of Medical Sciences to hold a debate instead, I was told the topic was 'too controversial'.

Power

With a few exceptions, even those MPs who readily criticise China on issues such as the Uyghur genocide, Hong Kong and Taiwan rarely mention that the Chinese authorities have refused for three years to be transparent about what happened at the epicentre of a pandemic that has killed north of 15 million people worldwide.

So why won't the British Establishment be more open-minded? I think there are several reasons.

Key figures such as Sir Patrick Vallance, still the Government's Chief Scientific Adviser, and Sir Jeremy Farrar, who recently stepped down as Director of the Wellcome Trust to take on a plum role at the WHO, collaborated in a highly influential article published in Nature Medicine journal in March 2020, which prematurely ruled out a leak PICTURED: Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance

First, Chinese investment in and collaboration with British universities and big business have left those in power reluctant to rock the boat.

Every time the prospect of a new Chinese billionaire hovers into view at a university, professors pull their punches. The top scientific journals are no different. Heavily dependent on Chinese funding, they have largely 'abdicated their responsibility to do in-depth investigative reporting', as the highly experienced science journalist Michael Balter put it on Sunday after news of the U.S. Department of Energy's report broke.

Second, many think admitting that scientists might have caused the pandemic would be bad for the reputation of science as a whole. To which I say: denying this possibility, and then being proved wrong, would be even worse.

Third, many in the ruling class don't tend to bother with considering controversial arguments, and instead take their views from people they already know and trust.

Pretend

Early in the pandemic, for example, I spoke with a brilliant molecular biologist who told me he had consulted a virologist friend who told him categorically a lab leak could be ruled out.

But now that even China has emerged from its interminable lockdowns, and scientists from Wuhan are finally free to travel abroad to scientific conferences, it is possible we may start to learn more about what really happened.

Some figures in Washington, for instance, say they have evidence the first three hospital cases of the virus were Wuhan lab workers. If so, let's see this evidence.

At the end of the day, however  whether a Chinese laboratory experiment went wrong or not, and whether the Chinese authorities even knew it at the time, there is no doubt that Beijing's insistence for several weeks in early 2020 that people could only catch the virus from animals, and not from each other, destroyed any chance of it being brought under control.

Since then, the ensuing clampdown on honest debate has been shameful.

We simply cannot pretend any longer that the Communist regime in China can be trusted on science, trade, geopolitics or anything else. Politely but firmly, we in the West must now say so  and make our plans accordingly.

Matt Ridley is a former Tory peer and co-author of Viral: The Search for the Origin of Covid-19.
Heads bowed and torsos bare, their hands manacled behind their backs and chained to their shackled ankles, 2,000 men suspected of gang violence are herded into a newly built mega-prison in El Salvador.

Cops in riot gear push down the convicts' shaven heads. The men are pressed up against one another like animals in a battery farm: stripped of all individual identity.

They look like carbon copies of each other, naked to the waist, tattooed, locked into the same submissive pose.

I've been to some of the most brutal penal facilities in the world, including maximum-security jails in Costa Rica and Belize in Central America, while filming my Netflix series Inside The World's Toughest Prisons. But the intensity of what these new pictures show, and the sheer depth of dehumanisation, is exceptional even to me.

This is a deliberate policy to control the inmates and manage them. I fear it will backfire badly  and result in violence even worse than the gang-driven chaos the government is desperately trying to stamp out.

Since El Savador president Nayib Bukele announced state of exception in March 2022, over 62,000 suspected gang members have been arrested. Thousands have ended up in the CECOT prison in Tecoluca

A first group of 2,000 detainees are moved to the mega- prison Terrorist Confinement Centre (CECOT) on February 24, 2023 in Tecoluca, El Salvador

A prison agent guards gang members as they are processed at their arrival after 2000 gang members were transferred to the Terrorism Confinement Centre, according to El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, in Tecoluca, El Salvador

RAPHAEL ROWE: 'Cops in riot gear push down the convicts' shaven heads. The men are pressed up against one another like animals in a battery farm: stripped of all individual identity'

Rows of inmates are processed and locked up in the CECOT prison in Tecoluca

Prisons, as I know from the 12 years I spent in British jails following my wrongful conviction in 1988 for murder and aggravated robbery, are designed to take control of the inmate's life and strip him of his liberty. What we are seeing in El Salvador takes that to the ultimate degree. At this new mega-prison, officially named the 'Terrorism Confinement Centre', the men are crammed into cells with just 80 beds for every 100 people  and only two toilets and two sinks between them.

Alleged to be the biggest prison anywhere in the Americas, it has eight reinforced concrete buildings, each containing 32 'mass cells'  and a maximum capacity of 40,000 prisoners.

Electronic scramblers block mobile phone signals, making it impossible to contact the outside world. The jail boasts seven 'rings' of security to stop inmates from escaping. These include solid-steel cells, a large perimeter wall, 19 watch towers, electric fences and patrol zones.

El Salvador's President, Nayib Bukele, claims that in his country's other prisons, inmates can access 'prostitutes, TV screens, PlayStations and phones'. In his extraordinary new mega-prison, none of these luxuries shall be permitted.

My travels around the world's prisons have taught me that, far from stifling violence, over-crowding breeds a gladiatorial atmosphere. Weaker, younger prisoners are targeted. Hygiene breaks down, and any inmate with medical needs is likely to be left to suffer. Outbreaks of disease become rampant.

So why has the Salvadorian government built this grim place? It has been choreographed to send the nation  and the world  a message. The authorities are saying: we are dealing with violence. The gangs that plague our country are at last being brought under control.

A first group of 2,000 detainees are moved to the mega- prison Terrorist Confinement Centre (CECOT) on February 24, 2023 in Tecoluca

Human Rights organisations denounce abuses and due process violations, but El Salvador has one of highest crime rates in Latin America

A first group of 2,000 detainees are moved to the mega- prison Terrorist Confinement Centre (CECOT) on February 24

The gangs of El Salvador have turned it into one of the most dangerous countries in the world.

Daily killings have been a shocking part of its broken society for decades; violence is so commonplace that when, one Wednesday in 2017, no murders were reported for 24 hours, it made front-page headlines.

The crisis stems from a civil war in the 1980s, which saw refugees flee to America. On the streets of Los Angeles, gangs formed, and when the war ended, the returning Salvadorans coalesced around two clans: MS-13, and 'Barrio-18'.

These gangs still exist in this new mega-prison, as these extraordinary pictures show. It is easy to tell the gang loyalty of many inmates based on their extravagant tattoos. Many are inscribed with Roman numerals of the numbers 18 or 13. (Salvadorian gangsters are encouraged, or even forced into getting giant inkings  as it makes leaving difficult.)

Drug-trafficking and extortion among the gangs were a way of life, with ten or 20 murders every day.

Then, in 2020, the country's prisons director, Osiris Luna Meza, announced a crackdown: a hardline security policy known as the 'Plan for Territorial Control'.

This included blocking all natural light from cells, banning visits by family members and pressing prisoners together in chains, even as Covid swept through the population.

Members of rival gangs were housed together, both as a deliberate insult and to break up lines of communication between gang lords and foot soldiers. Photos were released showing prisoners, naked but for white shorts and Covid masks, crammed on to decks of bunk beds.

The propaganda was meant to quash allegations that Bukele's administration had held secret negotiations with gang leaders in jail, promising better treatment if they told members on the outside to tone down the violence. Even if there were secret deals to contain the murders, it didn't work. During the pandemic, one crime wave followed another.

But Bukele's tougher stance proved popular, with one poll suggesting a 90 per cent public approval rate.

Inmates arrive at the CECOT prison under searchlight

The arrival of inmates belonging to the MS-13 and 18 gangs to the new prison "Terrorist Confinement Centre" (CECOT), in Tecoluca, 74 km southeast of San Salvador, on February 25, 2023

Inmates are forced through tight corridors in rows of three with their hands clasped behind their heads

Detainees sit cramped together on the floor of a prison bus

The president has played up to this. In February 2020, he marched into the legislative chamber with a bodyguard of armed troops, and made a speech warning that he could dissolve parliament at any time just by 'pressing the button'. Protests from the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs were ignored.

But the killings continued to escalate. Last March, after 62 gangland murders in a single day, the national parliament declared a state of emergency. And in December, 10,000 government troops surrounded the district of Soyapango in the capital, San Salvador.

All roads were blocked and special forces went from house to house, searching for gang members.

Bukele insisted on Twitter that this was 'an operation against criminals, not against honest citizens'.

In the first month of this 'war on gangs', no fewer than 17,000 suspects were rounded up and imprisoned. That has since risen to 64,000  nearly 1 per cent of El Salvador's 6.3 million population. Human-rights groups have documented 90 deaths in prisons since the emergency was declared, though many believe the real number is much higher.

Trials are often conducted by anonymous judges without the accused even being represented by lawyers, let alone present in court.

And then, on Bukele's orders, construction began of a gigantic prison in a rural area of the city of Tecoluca, south of the capital.

Defence minister Rene Merino said: 'The aim is to make these gangs disappear altogether.'

But of course these human beings have not 'disappeared' just because they are behind bars.

I've seen similar conditions, if not on this scale, in South Africa and Brazil. There, it is also official policy to mix the different gangs, and it seems to work. Clans that hate each other on the streets find ways to co-operate behind bars.

Dangerous though it undoubtedly is, I film in these prisons to show the world the truth. It's one thing to see the official images, another to find out how prisoners survive day to day. The only way to discover the reality is to see it first-hand.

When I was in prison myself, what I resented most was having no voice. Many of the men in the photos, with their tattoos and their coiled, muscular energy, might be criminals. Some will be innocent. Right now, none of them can plead their cases.

Brutal treatment breeds brutal people. Eventually, they will be released. After years of being treated like human cattle, they will be burning with resentment and stripped of all coping mechanisms bar one  violence.

El Salvador's ruthless efforts to rid itself of gangs can only make this blood-soaked land more dangerous.
$41,905 is the eye-popping price tag for Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and staff for the 18 government jet flights funded by U.S. taxpayers

A U.S. government watchdog will audit Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg's use of taxpayer-funded government airplanes for trips, his office said on Monday.

The Transportation Department Office of Inspector General will review 18 flights Buttigieg made on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) planes over seven trips. The audit will also include a travel review by the previous Transportation Secretary under former President Donald Trump, Elaine Chao.

The costs of the flights for Buttigieg and staff was $41,905.20 and in six of seven trips, the department confirmed that flying on FAA planes was less expensive than flying commercial.

'Glad this will be reviewed independently so misleading narratives can be put to rest,' Buttigieg wrote on Twitter.

'Bottom line: I mostly fly on commercial flights, in economy class. And when I do use our agency's aircraft, it's usually a situation where doing so saves taxpayer money.'

A U.S. government watchdog will audit Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg's use of taxpayer-funded government airplanes for trips, his office said on Monday

560XL private jets Pete Buttigieg has taken 18 flights on taxpayer-funded private jets since taking office despite calls to cut carbon emissions

Interior of 560XL private jets used for official government purposes when commercial air travel isn't available

'American taxpayers deserve assurances that their tax dollars are not wasted by the government's highest officials,' Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) wrote to the inspector general in December while asking for the review.

Kerry Arndt, the press secretary for Buttigieg, told The Washington Post in an emailed statement that his team welcomed the audit, which would 'put some of the false, outlandish, and cynical claims about the Secretary's mode of travel to rest.'

'The fact remains that he flies commercially the vast majority of the time,' Arndt said. 'The exceptions have been when the Department's career ethics officials, who have served under both Democratic and Republican administrations, determined that the use of a 9-seat FAA plane would be either more cost effective or should be approved for exceptional scheduling or security reasons.'



Americans for Public Trust, the 'good government' nonpartisan organization that requested the review, hailed the audit. '[We are] pleased to see that Secretary Buttigieg's air travel is now under investigation after APT revealed that he was flying on a taxpayer-funded jet, despite commercial options being readily available.'

But Buttigieg isn't the only Transportation Secretary under review, given the memo asks for all records going back to January 31, 2017, just days after President Donald Trump was sworn into office.

Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, who held office from January 2017 - January 2021, used the FAA's planes for seven trips, including two that were international. The Transportation Department said Monday that those seven trips involved 15 individual flights.

One trip to Europe cost $68,892 for Chao and five staffers, according to the department, according to The Washington Post. Her office sought to use a government plane on that trip for security purposes, according to a memo seeking approval for its use.

Reviewing chartered aircraft for Cabinet members is not uncommon, especially following the 2017 resignation of Trump's Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price for his numerous - and some argued - excessive private plane usage. He ultimately paid back nearly $60,000 to cover what he said was his share of the travel costs.

Official travel for the former Secretary of the Department of Transportation Elaine Chao under President Donald Trump is also under review

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Florida) requested the audit of government planes used for official business for the Transportation Department since 2017.
Alex Murdaugh's defense today rested its case ahead of rebuttal witnesses from the prosecution and a field trip for jurors to visit the murder scene later this week.

The defense concluded by calling the alleged killer's younger brother John Marvin Murdaugh to the stand who gave emotional testimony about cleaning up Paul's brains which were still splattered across the kennels the day after the killings.

The prosecution will tomorrow call at least four witnesses in reply, possibly five, who 'will be focused on issues raised during the defense case.'

Judge Clifton Newman said that after this jurors will make the half-hour trip from the Colleton County courthouse to the kennels at the hunting estate in Moselle, South Carolina, where Murdaugh allegedly shot his wife Maggie and younger son Paul.

The defense earlier requested that the jury attend the scene to give them a better understanding of where the pair were killed on the night of June 7, 2021.

Alex Murdaugh smiles while taking with defense attorney Jim Griffin during his double murder trial at the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro on Monday

Maggie's body was found a few yards to the right of a doghouse, while Paul's was by the doorway at the end of the kennels. Judge Clifton Newman today granted the defense request for jurors to visit the scene to gain a better understanding of the shootings

Paul, Maggie, Alex and Buster Murdaugh attend a dinner at the South Carolina Yacht Club. Buster was staying with his girlfriend outside Charlotte at the time of the killings

The court will then hear closing arguments from both sides before the jury are sent to reach a verdict. Murdaugh faces 30 years to life in prison if convicted.

Following Monday's proceedings, Dick Harpootlian questioned how long prosecutor Creighton Waters intended to take with his remaining witnesses.

'I'm in no way critical of Mr Waters but his estimate of time has been a little... mushy. I think is a good way to put it. I'm not criticizing but I'm just saying this was supposed to be a three-week trial and now it's a six-week trial.'

Waters told the judge: 'We have maybe four, maybe five (witnesses) at this point in time. I am hopeful that we could accomplish that in a day.'

He added: 'I don't think many of them except for one would be lengthy. And by lengthy I don't mean exceptionally so.'

Harpootlian this morning asked the judge to allow jurors to visit the kennels to give them a better 'spatial' understanding of the murder scene.

But Harpootlian warned the judge that cops need to close the road and secure the gates beforehand to stop the jury being influenced by the 'carnival attitude' of trial enthusiasts trespassing on the property.

Harpootlian said Alex's brother John Marvin was forced to call the sheriff last weekend because 'literally dozens' of trespassers were taking selfies in the feed room at the kennels where Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun.

Judge Newman said that a visit to the estate could be arranged - overruling the prosecution objection. He assured Harpootlian the scene would be secured.

The defense called John Marvin as its 14th and final witness Monday who wept as he described cleaning up Paul's brains the day after the murders because 'it felt like the right thing to do, I felt like I owed him.'.

John Marvin said he returned to the crime scene with police permission after arriving to be at Alex's side on the night his wife and son were shot dead.

Murdaugh wept at the defense table as his brother described cleaning up his dead son's brains that were still splattered across the feed room at the kennels the day after the killings

The kennels at the estate. Paul was shot in the feed room which stands at the far right end of the row of dog cages

Paul's body was found lying in the doorway of the feed room at the end of the row of dog cages at the kennels. Prosecutors say Murdaugh first blasted Paul twice with a shotgun before killing his wife with a rifle a few moments later

Maggie's blood-soaked body lies under a sheet at the crime scene on the night of June 7, 2021. She was shot five times with an assault rifle, while Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun a few yards away at the kennels on the estate

MURDER SCENE: Paul's body lies outside the storage room, while Maggie lies just outside the kennels by the doghouse

He said the grass where Maggie's blood-soaked body had lain was covered with dirt 'so there was really nothing to do.' But the feed room at the kennels where Paul was blasted twice with a shotgun was still covered in blood and brain matter.

John Marvin sobbed as he described the scene, telling jurors: 'I saw blood, I saw brains, I saw pieces of skull, I saw tissue - and when I say brains it could just be tissue - I don't know what I saw, it was just terrible.

'And for some reason I thought it was something that I needed to do for Paul to clean it up. It felt like it was the right thing to do, I felt like I owed him and I started cleaning.

'I can promise you no mother or father or aunt or uncle should ever have to do and see what I did that day.

'I'm not blaming anybody but I was just overwhelmed and I did everything I could and I would have moments where I would stop crying for a moment, just in disbelief.'

Murdaugh wept at the defense table as his brother described the horrifying ordeal.

John Marvin Murdaugh and his wife Liz outside the Colleton County courthouse Monday

Alex's younger brother John Marvin with his wife Liz, and his older brother Randy with his wife Christy, arrive at court Monday

Buster Murdaugh, center, arrives with his girlfriend Brooklynn White, Alex's sister Lynn (left) and brother John Marvin (right)

'At one point I called my brother Randy and told him what I was doing and he immediately told me to stop doing it, it was not good for me and it was not healthy for me to be there,' John Marvin said.

'And I couldn't stop. I had to do it for Paul. It's just what I had to do.'

He said: 'It was probably 15 or 20 minutes later, Mark Ball (a close family friend) shows up, y'all heard Mark Ball testify and came and hugged me and told me it was okay to leave. Okay to leave what was rest of Paul and that they would clean it up.'

He added: 'It's the hardest thing I've ever been through in my life.'

Murdaugh during the trial has floated his own theory of who committed the murders, testifying on Friday that he believed someone angry over a deadly boating accident involving Paul had done so.

He acknowledged that he lacked evidence to support that theory.

During his testimony, he also said he had deceived law partners and clients out of huge sums of money to feed his drug habit, potentially undercutting his credibility with the jury.

Murdaugh arrives surrounded by sheriffs at the courthouse Monday

Buster, Maggie, Paul and Alex Murdaugh in a photo the mother posted for Father's Day in 2020

Under cross examination, Waters sought to portray Murdaugh as a serial liar who was under pressure due to mounting financial troubles in the months leading up to the killings.

Murdaugh admitted to lying to investigators in the aftermath of the murders by telling them he was not at the kennels on the night of the murders.

He changed his account after the jury saw cellphone video that contained audio of Murdaugh's voice that placed him at the scene minutes before investigators have said his wife and son were killed.

Murdaugh, the scion of an influential South Carolina legal family, was indicted by a grand jury in July and pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon.

The case has drawn intense media coverage given the political influence of the Murdaugh family in South Carolina.

Murdaugh's sole surviving son Buster, 26, has attended court everyday and testified last week. The disbarred attorney's brothers John Marvin and Randy and sister Lynn have also attended the Colleton County courthouse in Walterboro most days.
A feared Tory revolt on Brexit melted away last night after Rishi Sunak unveiled a historic deal with the EU.

After weeks of secret talks, the Prime Minister and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen finalised an agreement to fix post-Brexit problems that have dogged Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said the 'decisive breakthrough' would herald a new chapter in relations between London and Brussels and claimed the UK had 'finally taken back control'.

He told MPs the deal did 'what many said could not be done  removing thousands of pages of EU laws ... and making permanent, legally binding changes to the Protocol Treaty'.

The scale of the concessions from the EU took MPs by surprise and Mr Sunak appeared to be on the brink of a coup as the predicted Tory revolt faltered.

Rishi Sunak (centre) after speaking in the House of Commons earlier today following the announcement of the new Northern Ireland protocol

After weeks of secret talks, the Prime Minister and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen finalised an agreement to fix post-Brexit problems that have dogged Northern Ireland

No Conservative MPs directly criticised the deal when he presented it to the Commons last night.

However, the DUP, whose support is needed to restore power-sharing in Northern Ireland, reserved judgment, with one of the party's MPs warning it did not 'cut the mustard'.

READ MORE: 'We've now taken back control': Rishi Sunak boasts that he has completed Brexit as he is grilled by MPs EU President Ursula Von Der Leyen travelled to the UK today to meet UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to sign off on the agreement on the post-Brexit trade arrangements for Northern Ireland Fact-box text Advertisement

Boris Johnson also kept his counsel on the proposals, which unpick part of his Brexit deal.

A source said that he would 'study and reflect' before setting out his verdict. He is reported to have urged the DUP to treat the plans with caution.

The Times reports that Mr Johnson spoke with the PM in recent days and was given a 'broad outline' of the deal. Mr Sunak is also understood to have 'reached out' with Liz Truss, although she did not respond.

But former PM Theresa May backed the deal, as did leading Brexiteers.

In a joint article in the Mail today, David Davis, Dominic Raab and Steve Barclay described the proposals as a 'complete and utter game-changer' that would finally deliver 'the Brexit we voted for and promised to deliver'.

The trio all served as Brexit secretary in negotiations with the EU, with both Mr Davis and Mr Raab resigning over Mrs May's proposals for an exit deal.

They said: 'What the Prime Minister has achieved is what no one thought would be possible.

'He has scrapped 1,700 pages of EU law and made radical and permanent changes to the Protocol Treaty to end the ratchet of EU law.

'We are all Conservatives. We are all Unionists. We are all Brexiteers. We can and must make Brexit work for all parts of the UK and the deal that the Prime Minister has struck will do so.

'We can finally move on from disagreeing about Brexit to focusing on the opportunities.'

AT A GLANCE: WHAT DOES THE STORMONT DEAL MEAN IN REAL TERMS? STORMONT BRAKE The Northern Ireland assembly can object to EU single market rules, allowing the UK Government to impose a veto. TRADE Two routes will exits for goods going from the United Kingdom to Northern Ireland. The Green Lane will apply to products destined for Northern Ireland, which will have less burdensome checks than those in the Red Lane for the Republic of Ireland. PETS AND PRODUCTS Rules forcing pet owners to show up-to-date vet's certificates of health an rabies vaccinations will be scrapped. Owners only have to state their pet is microchipped and will to travel to the EU. TAX VAT changes will apply to the whole of the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland. Zero-rating of VAT on solar panels and reforms to alcohol duties will apply. SOVEREIGNTY The proportion of EU rules served on Northern Ireland will cut to 3 per cent. Advertisement

Northern Ireland minister Steve Baker compared the level of 'statecraft' involved in the Brexit deal negotiations to that leading up to the Good Friday Agreement.

Mr Baker told ITV's Peston programme: 'Personally, I think it's a kind of, for want of a better term, statesmanship, which is at the level of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement.'

Alliance Party leader Naomi Long, speaking on the same programme, rejected that comparison: 'I think Steve is getting a bit carried away with himself this evening.'

Mr Sunak said the agreement, named the 'Windsor Framework', would deliver 'significant improvements' for people in Northern Ireland, where trade has been disrupted by post-Brexit rules.

And he predicted that the deal could clear the way for a wider reset of relations with Brussels.

'The UK and the EU may have had our differences in the past, but we are allies, trading partners and friends,' he said. 'This is the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship.'

Mrs von der Leyen said the deal would heal the 'difficulties' in Britain's relations with Brussels.

Emmanuel Macron welcomed the deal between the EU and UK on the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The French president tweeted: 'The United Kingdom and the European Union have just reached an agreement on implementing the post-Brexit framework in Northern Ireland.

'I welcome this important decision, which will preserve the Good Friday Agreement and protect our European internal market.'

The breakthrough came as:

Mr Sunak ended days of speculation by pledging that MPs would get a vote on the proposals;

The UK secured a 'Stormont Brake' that gives Northern Ireland a veto over the imposition of future EU laws in the province;

Officials conceded Brussels would still set rules in areas such as manufactured goods and food;

Mr Sunak confirmed the Government would scrap Mr Johnson's Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, which would have allowed the UK to take unilateral action but threatened to trigger a trade war;

Downing Street was accused of dragging King Charles into the political arena by advising him to grant an audience to Mrs von der Leyen after the deal was struck;

The EU chief suggested the deal could lead to further co-operation, including allowing the UK back into Europe's Horizon science programme.

Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak chat as they go into the Fairmont Windsor Park hotel today

The slick document published by the government today outlining the terms of the new deal

Sinn Fein vice president Michelle O'Neill and Connor Murphy speaking in Stormont

US President Joe Biden has called Rishi Sunak's Brexit deal with the EU an 'essential step' in protecting the Good Friday Agreement.

In a White House statement, the US president praised the efforts of London and Brussels to secure the deal, after Mr Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the Windsor Framework on Monday.

Mr Biden said that the deal was an 'essential step to ensuring that the hard-earned peace and progress of the Belfast and Good Friday Agreement is preserved and strengthened'.

He said: 'I appreciate the efforts of the leaders and officials on all sides who worked tirelessly to find a way forward that protects Northern Ireland's place within the UK's internal market as well as the EU's single market, to the benefit of all communities in Northern Ireland.

What is in Rishi's new 'Windsor Framework' for NI? Green lanes for trade: Goods destined from mainland Britain for Northern Ireland will travel through a new green lane, with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving on to the EU. Food retailers like supermarkets, restaurants and wholesalers will no longer need hundreds of certificates for every lorry and we will end the situation where food made to UK rules could not be sent to and sold in Northern Ireland. Taking back control of tax: The legal text of the of the NI protocol has been altered to make sure the UK has control of VAT and excise duty in Northern Ireland. Mr Sunak said the change would reduce alcohol duty 'meaning our reforms to cut the cost of a pint in a pub will now apply in Northern Ireland'. Medicines and pets: UK medicine regulations will apply in Northern Ireland, and there will also be fewer controls on pets be transported to and from mainland Britain. Sovereignty guarantee: The Stormont Assembly, which has not sat since the DUP withdrew from its power-sharing executive in February last year, will gain new powers over the introduction of new EU trade laws that could have a large impact on trade. Advertisement

'I am confident the people and businesses of Northern Ireland will be able to take full advantage of the economic opportunities created by this stability and certainty, and the United States stands ready to support the region's vast economic potential.'

Mr Biden's backing is a significant boost for Mr Sunak. The US president has long taken a close interest in the peace process in Northern Ireland and has spoken often about his own Irish heritage

The Windsor Framework is designed to tackle problems with the Northern Ireland Protocol, which has been blamed for driving a wedge between the province and the rest of the UK.

It creates a 'green lane' that will scrap almost all EU checks on goods arriving in Northern Ireland from the UK, ending a practice that has triggered shortages and political divisions.

The PM said the deal would remove 'any sense of a border in the Irish Sea' and meant that if food was available in Great Britain then it would also be available on shelves in Northern Ireland.

It will restore the UK Government's full control over tax rates and state subsidies in the province, which was weakened by the Protocol.

The Brexit deal left Northern Ireland effectively inside the EU's single market in order to prevent the creation of a hard border on the island of Ireland.

Mr Sunak said a 'minimal' amount of EU trade law would still apply. But he said the 'Stormont Brake' would allow the NI Assembly to block the introduction of EU trade laws.

The move is designed to tackle a 'democratic deficit', which has been a key concern for Unionists in Ulster.

The PM hopes the deal will win the approval of the DUP so power-sharing can be restored in Northern Ireland for the first time in more than a year. Last night the party gave a mixed response to the proposals.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said his party's 'principled opposition' to the Protocol had been 'vindicated'.

He said it was clear that 'significant progress has been secured'. But he said his party needed to study the detail as there was 'no disguising the fact that in some sectors EU law remains applicable'.

But prominent MP Ian Paisley Jr said the democratic safeguards did not 'cut the mustard'.

And fellow DUP MP Sammy Wilson said his colleagues 'do not have confidence and still fear our position in the UK is not going to be restored by this agreement'.

On the Tory benches the deal was welcomed by most MPs.

Former Cabinet minister Sajid Javid said the PM had secured 'jaw-dropping concessions from the EU without giving anything in return'.

Former Northern Ireland secretary Julian Smith said it was a 'critical day in ending three years of political instability'.

Mark Francois, chairman of the European Research Group of Tory MPs, asked for reassurances that there were no 'nasty surprises' in the detail of the legal text.

The ERG has said it would establish a 'star chamber' of lawyers to pass judgment on the deal.

But former ERG chairman Steve Baker urged MPs to back the deal.

No Conservative MPs directly criticised the deal when he presented it to the Commons last night

Mr Baker confirmed he had been considering resigning from his post as a Northern Ireland minister as recently as Sunday, but had been won round by the details of Mr Sunak's agreement.

He said the Stormont Brake was 'an extraordinary achievement', adding: 'I am terrifically pleased.

'I can earnestly say that at last one chapter of our history may close and another open in a new spirit of partnership with the EU.'

In an incentive to the DUP to return to power-sharing, the 'Stormont Brake' can only operate if the Assembly is up and running.

On giving MPs a confirmatory vote, Mr Sunak said: 'It is important that we give everyone the time and the space they need to consider the detail of the framework.

'But ultimately this isn't necessarily about me, it is not about politicians, it is about the people in Northern Ireland, it is about what is best for them.'
Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler are left shocked by Aussie journalist's height on red carpet in resurfaced clip that's going viral: 'That's awful, that's not right, I can't look!'


By Lee Jong-eun



Recently, foreign ministers of South Korea and Japan held a bilateral meeting while attending the Munich Security Conference. The foreign ministers discussed two topics. First, they condemned North Korea's latest conducting of an ICBM missile test. Second, the foreign ministers continued the bilateral negotiations on resolving the issue of compensation for the South Korean victims of wartime forced labor.



Since 2018, when the South Korean Supreme Court ruled that Japanese companies should pay reparations to their former South Korean laborers for the forced extortion of labor, the issue became one of multiple obstacles in the bilateral relationship and contributed to tensions between the South Korean Moon Jae-in administration and Japan's Shinzo Abe government.



Since last year, the new leaders of the two states, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida have attempted to improve bilateral relations. On resolving the issue of wartime forced labor, the South Korean foreign ministry has recently proposed a framework where Japanese companies would donate to a private foundation that would directly provide compensation to the former forced laborers. Additionally, the Japanese government would convey an apology to the victims.



Japan's government, however, has been reluctant to endorse South Korea's proposal. Japan's official stance is that monetary compensation for historical issues was resolved with the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations Between Japan and the Republic of Korea. Many within Japan's domestic politics oppose providing additional compensation, even indirectly, to South Korean victims. Japan's domestic politics is also skeptical that even if Japan endorsed South Korea's proposal, a future South Korean government could demand additional compensation and apologies.



Despite South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin's plea for Japan to make a decisive political decision, the Kishida government has been cautious in response, reluctant to confront opposition within Japan's domestic politics. As the Yoon administration also faces domestic pressures to not compromise on this politically sensitive issue, without Japan's reciprocal display of commitment to achieving a settlement, there is a danger that bilateral negotiations would lose momentum under a familiar diplomatic gridlock.



What could motivate Japan's government to actively seek a settlement on wartime forced labor despite domestic political constraints? The critical factor is how much strategic value and opportunity Japan perceives in expanding its security partnership with South Korea. As Japan's national security strategy changes in order to face growing security challenges from North Korea, China, and Russia, South Korea holds undeniable importance for Japan's security as a "strategic shield."



In deterring North Korea's missile launches in the East Sea, countering China's naval activities in the East and South China Seas, and balancing Russia-China joint military exercises in the Pacific, South Korea's naval, air and intelligence partnership provides a valuable asset to Japan's own strategic defense. This recognition is displayed in Japan's 2022 National Security Strategy document, which refers to South Korea as a "highly important neighboring country" to Japanese security.



A counterargument could be that Japan does not need to rely on a strategic partnership with South Korea, as Japan already has a military alliance with the U.S. However, South Korea's strategic ambiguity, or the disconnect between the U.S.-Japan and U.S.-ROK alliance, creates uncertainties and handicaps for Japan's geostrategic security. Can Japan rely on South Korea to share real-time intelligence for counterstrike measures against North Korea's missile threats? Would South Korea's ambiguity on China's naval activities near the Taiwan and Senkaku Islands constrain U.S. military forces in South Korea?



Is the U.S. holding separate military exercises with the ROK and Japanese navy, limiting the logistical effectiveness of trilateral coordination? Finally, would the South Korean government unilaterally advocate for independent nuclear armament, triggering additional security anxiety within Japan's domestic politics? As Kishida's government navigates strategic and political risks and uncertainties in charting a new path for Japan's national security, strategic clarity and support from neighboring South Korea would positively boost his foreign policy.



However, the dispute over past historical issues poses challenges for the present and future bilateral security partnerships. Due to historical memories, South Korean domestic politics is ambivalent, even critical toward Japan's military expansion. Providing a "strategic shield" for Japan's security brings uncomfortable memories for South Koreans who historically experienced being exploited by Japan's geopolitical interests. Even if the present and future strategic interests largely determine countries' foreign policies, past memories also impact the political legitimacy and diplomatic trust, which governments need to implement sweeping foreign policy decisions.



Japan's government has an opportunity. The current South Korean government shares many similar foreign policy objectives, including the desire to improve bilateral and trilateral security partnerships. South Korea's most recent domestic opinions toward Japan also appear to be improving from past anti-Japanese sentiments. Boldly seizing the opportunity, Japan should consider proposing a "grand bargain" on past historical grievances and future security partnerships.



Even if it deviates from Japan's diplomatic principle, it accommodates South Korea's demands for compensating and commemorating the victims of forced wartime labor. In return, they should urge the South Korean government to establish a comprehensive security partnership with Japan in areas ranging from cyber security, economic security, missile defense, and nuclear deterrence. To use a classic dilemma, "moral justification vs. practical interest," accommodates South Korea's pursuit of moral justification over past historical grievances and achieves Japan's practical interests for present and future security.



I acknowledge that deals between South Korea and Japan will not be easy to achieve. Japan's "fatigue" from South Korea's pursuit of past historical grievances and South Korea's "anxiety" toward Japan's military rearmament are significant barriers. However, each country holds the key to the other's barrier. If Japan unlocks Korea from the grievances of the past, and Korea unlocks Japan toward the security of the future, the barriers between Korea and Japan could be unlocked; if they make mutual choices together.





Lee Jong-eun (jl4375a@student.american.edu), a Ph.D. candidate, is an adjunct faculty member at the American University School of International Service. His research specialties include U.S. foreign policy, South Korean politics and foreign policy, alliance management and East Asian regional security.


She and her partner, also deaf, use a receiver, baby sensor and bed shaker

A deaf influencer who starred in Netflix's Def U has shared how uses 'game-changing' technologies to know when her baby is crying.

Cheyenne Clearbrook, 24, shared a TikTok video showing how she and her partner Issac, 28, also deaf, use a receiver, baby sensor, bed shaker and monitor to know when their three-month-old daughter is in distress.

More than 56 million people are deaf or hard of hearing in the US, which can impact their decision to start a family.

But new technologies have helped Clearbrook and her partner make their dreams of being parents come true.

These devices are designed specifically for deaf people and vibrate and flash when specific sounds are detected - including the doorbell ring and security alarm.

'It absolutely changed our lives, we do really depend on them for nights and how they are so accurate,' Clearbrook told DailyMail.com.

'We cant just imagine how our lives would be without those devices designed for deaf people.'

Cheyenne Clearbrook, 24, shared a TikTok video showing how she and her partner Issac, 28, also deaf, use a receiver, baby sensor, bed shaker and monitor to know when their three-month-old daughter is in distress

Clearbrook has been a social media influencer since she was 16, starting on YouTube and starring in the Netflix series Deaf U.

The 2020 series follows a group of students attending Gallaudet University, a private Washington DC college for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

Clearbrook now creates fun content for her audience on TikTok, informing them about the life of a deaf person.

'We are learning as deaf parents with our daughter, who is possibly hard of hearing. We dont know if she hears or not yet since she has to retake a hearing test to confirm,' she said.

Clearbrook and her partner use the three devices developed by Serene Innovations, which develops technology specifically for deaf people.

The remote receiver is a portable device with screen icons that flash depending on the sound it collects.

There is one for a doorbell, baby crying, telephone, home security alarm and several others.

The receiver connects to the baby sensor that sits no more than five feet from the baby and sends the signal to the receiver when it detects crying.

She and her partner use (left) a baby sensor, receiver and bed shaker. They also use a Vtech monitor (right) that also alters them when their baby is crying

Clearbrook and her partner use the three devices developed by Serene Innovations, which develops technology specifically for deaf people

It monitors the baby's sound in real-time, stopping when the baby stops making noise. And the battery lasts for 10 months.

And the bed shaker is critical to know when a baby is restless at night.

It wakes the user with a strong vibration when any of its connected sensors are alerted by the baby sensor.

The bed shaker can be placed under a pillow or between the mattress.

'Once a baby sensor recognizes the baby crying, it sends a signal to the receiver where it will flash bright lights with sounds and vibrate which is under the bedsheet so it will wake us up to it,' said Clearbrook.

The remote receiver (left) is a portable device with screen icons that flash depending on the sound it collects. The bed shaker is critical to know when a baby is restless at night. It wakes the user with a strong vibration when any of its connected sensors are alerted

The receiver connects to the baby sensor that sits no more than five feet from the baby and sends the signal to the receiver when it detects crying

'Also, this baby sensor has intense crying levels and will send a signal once the bars are set high.

'It is very accurate and only focuses on the single sound, which is the babys crying so it wont be inferred with other sounds, which is amazing.

'For example, if my dog barks, the baby sensor wouldnt recognize it.'

Clearbrook also uses a Vtech baby monitor, which she says gives them peace of mind.

'As for the Vtech baby monitor, it definitely helped us with continuous daily activities around the household without having to enter her bedroom to check on her at all times,' she told DailyMail.com.

'We can just check on the parent unit or our phones. It gives us peace of mind and is more relaxing than worrying about not knowing if she cries where we have to see her frequently since we cant hear.'

Clearbrook told DailyMail.com that she and her partner purchased the Serene Innovations devices before their daughter was born.

'My parents were the ones to suggest we buy them because they did have different kinds of baby alarms during their time,' she said.

'We were thankful that we knew about those devices before she was born. If we didnt, we wouldnt sleep well!'
Being able to pull out a stylus and use it as a remote to take photos is undoubtedly cool  and just one of the new Samsung S23 Ultra's many party tricks.

In terms of talking points, this handset definitely has you covered, and most of the features revolve around its camera.

Take the phone's 'astrophotography' mode, for example, which allow users to take high-res 100x zoom image of the moon.

A demonstration of this feature elicited a Wow from Elon Musk, although whether or not the average person would actually use it is another matter.

Too many Android handsets feel boringly similar these days. The S23 Ultra (the spiritual grandchild of Samsungs huge, discontinued Galaxy Note phones) definitely does not.

The S23 Ultra has a mind-boggling 200-megapixel camera - which puts the iPhone's mere 48 megapixel to shame

The stylus fits nearly into the bottom of the handset (Samsung)

Youll need to be a fan of plus-sized handsets to enjoy it: the screens 6.8 inches, and even big phones like Googles Pixel 7 Pro feel positively dainty next to it - only Apples iPhone 14 Pro Max is in the same heavyweight bracket as the S23 Ultra.

So theres more to love here, although Samsung hasnt ripped up the rulebook since last years S22 Ultra, looks-wise.

Theres plenty of upgrades under the bonnet, though - notably the new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, the fastest Android one out there, and a 200 megapixel rear camera, a component so over-the-top it puts the S23 Ultra in a class of its own.

To put that in context, the iPhone 14 Pro Max (Apples top-end device) boasts a mere 48 megapixels.

The build quality is solid and high-quality, with a metal finish and the latest Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which I accidentally tested by dropping the handset face-down on concrete while setting it up (it was fine).

In terms of talking points, this handset definitely has you covered, and most of the features revolve around its camera

The latest Samsung S23 allows users to take high-resolution images of the moon zoomed in a hundred times

The 120Hz screen is absolutely gorgeous, making videos look unbelievably crisp: for our money, its at least the equal of anything out there at present, including the latest iPhones.

The real reason youd buy this is the high-powered array of cameras on the back.

How to shoot an 100x zoomed photo of the moon Ideally youll need a tripod for this: to capture an 100x Zoom moon photo, just pinch out on screen in the normal camera app to 100x zoom. The camera app will do the rest. For other astrophotography effects, youll need Samsungs Expert RAW app - you can access it via Samsungs own app store, or download it from within the camera app (go to Modes to access it). Once youve got the app go to Modes > Expert Raw > the star icon top left, and you can set the duration and turn the sky guide on and off. Advertisement

This is pretty much the ultimate camera phone on the market at present, certainly in terms of the different functions on offer.

Samsung Electronics America describes it as the most advanced camera ever on a Galaxy device, and its streets ahead of the competition on Android.

As well as the main 200 megapixel camera, theres a 12 megapixel ultrawide and two 10 megapixel telephoto lenses - its fantastic for zooming in shots.

Googles Pixel 7 Pro, with its machine-learning-boosted powers, probably (just) tops it for amateur or bad photographers, as it can salvage pretty mediocre photography.

But if youre looking to stretch your creative wings, the S23 Ultra is in a class of its own - download Samsungs Expert RAW camera app and youre looking at an array of controls that wouldnt shame an SLR camera.

In standard shooting mode, the 200-megapixel sensor combines 16 pixels into one 12.5 megapixel shot - this makes the end result highly colorful and bright.

But you can shoot in no-holds-barred 200 megapixel mode, so you can crop and zoom to your hearts content.

Night photography is a great deal better, with AI boosting the shots - overall this is definitely the ultimate Android camera phone, and it offers a lot of modes that even Apples mighty iPhone 14 Pro Max cant match.

Being able to trigger the shutter remotely adds another feather to the S23 Ultras cap - basically, if youre looking to try out new ideas in photography on a phone, its very hard to match this.

It can shoot video in 8K resolution (four times sharper than Ultra HD TVs) should also make it appealing to film-makers (or just people who want to ensure their holiday videos look great in 20 years time).

Naturally, there is a but.

Unlike Googles top-end Pixel, the price here strays off out where the buses dont run - into Apple country.

Its $1199, which is very, very expensive for an Android device (Googles flagship Pixel 7 Pro is $899 for comparison).

If youre a keen photographer, or just a die-hard stylus aficionado, this more than justifies the price tag - but theres no question its a hefty one.

The S23 Ultra outperforms just about every Android out there (Supplied)

You can write messages or doodle on screen with the stylus (Supplied)
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch to the International Space Station was postponed just two minutes before lift-off, with officials citing problems with ground systems.

The SpaceX Dragon Crew-6 mission was scheduled to depart the Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 1.45am (6.45am GMT), carrying two NASA astronauts, a Russian cosmonaut and the second Emirati to voyage to space.

But just two minutes before lift-off, the launch was called off, or 'scrubbed'.

'Today's #Crew6 launch has been scrubbed due to an issue with ground systems,' NASA posted on Twitter.

SpaceX said shortly after that it had begun unloading fuel from the rocket and the crew would disembark.

The SpaceX Dragon Crew-6 mission was scheduled to depart the Kennedy Space Center in Florida at 1:45 am (06:45 GMT), carrying two NASA astronauts, a Russian cosmonaut and the second Emirati to voyage to space. From left, Andrey Fedyaev, Warren 'Woody' Hoburg, Stephen Bowen, and Sultan Alneyadi

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launch to the International Space Station was postponed just two minutes before lift-off, with officials citing problems with ground systems

The launch will be rescheduled for a later date.

Watch the most powerful rocket EVER built fire up its engines The so-called 'static fire'  carried out at a launch pad in south Texas  involved the simultaneous igniting of 31 out of 33 of the engines at the base of the $3 billion (2.4 billion) vehicle's lower-segment Advertisement

NASA's Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg, Russia's Andrey Fedyaev and Sultan al-Neyadi of the United Arab Emirates are to spend six months on the orbiting station.

Neyadi, 41, will be the fourth astronaut from an Arab country and the second from the oil-rich UAE to journey to space; his compatriot Hazzaa al-Mansoori flew an eight-day mission in 2019.

Neyadi described the upcoming mission as a 'great honor.'

Hoburg, the Endeavour pilot, and Fedyaev, the Russian mission specialist, will also be making their first space flights.

Fedyaev is the second Russian cosmonaut to fly to the ISS aboard a SpaceX rocket.

NASA astronauts fly regularly to the station on Russian Soyuz craft.

Space has remained a rare venue of cooperation between Moscow and Washington since the Russian offensive in Ukraine placed the two in sharp opposition.

Such exchanges have continued despite those tensions.

Bowen, a veteran of three space shuttle missions, said politics rarely come up while in space.

'We're all professionals. We keep focused on the mission itself,' the commander said. 'It's always been a great relationship we've had with cosmonauts once we get to space.'

While aboard the ISS, the Crew-6 members will conduct dozens of experiments including studying how materials burn in microgravity and researching heart, brain and cartilage functions.

NASA's Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg, Russia's Andrey Fedyaev and Sultan al-Neyadi of the United Arab Emirates are to spend six months on the orbiting station

Just two minutes before lift-off, the launch was called off, or 'scrubbed'. SpaceX said shortly after that it had begun unloading fuel from the rocket and the crew would disembark

The current crew is the sixth to be transported by a SpaceX rocket to the ISS. The Endeavour capsule has flown into space three times.

NASA pays SpaceX to ferry astronauts to the ISS roughly every six months.

The space agency expects Crew-6 to have a handover of several days with the four members of Crew-5, who have been on the ISS since October. Crew-5 will then return to Earth.

Also aboard the ISS are cosmonauts Dmitry Petelin and Sergei Prokopyev, as well as NASA astronaut Frank Rubio.

They had been scheduled to return home on March 28 but the cooling system of their Soyuz MS-22 capsule was damaged by a tiny meteoroid in December while docked with the ISS.

An uncrewed Russian Soyuz capsule, MS-23, took off on Friday from Kazakhstan to bring the three astronauts home. They are now scheduled to return to Earth in September.

Construction of the ISS began in 1998 at a time of increased US-Russia cooperation following the Cold War space race.

Russia has been using the aging but reliable Soyuz capsules to ferry astronauts into space since the 1960s.

But in recent years, Russia's space program has been beset by a litany of problems that have led to the loss of satellites and vehicles.
One London school claims the software could soon spell the end of homework

Controversial AI tool ChatGPT has already been banned in schools across the world over fears it encourages cheating and laziness.

But the International Baccalaureate (IB), which offers an alternative to A-levels, is bucking this trend by permitting the use of ChatGPT to write essays.

Students undertaking IB programmes will be able to quote passages generated by the chatbot - as long as they do not try to pass it off as their own words.

Created by San Francisco-based company OpenAI, the tool has been trained on a massive amount of text so it can generate human-like responses to questions.

A university student has already used ChatGPT to write a 2,000-word essay that got a 2:2 grade, although the lecturer called the language used 'fishy'.

Students undertaking IB programmes will be able to quote passages generated by the chatbot - as long as they do not try to pass it off as their own words

According to Matt Glanville, head of assessment principles and practice at IB, essay-writing is being 'profoundly challenged by the rise of new technology'.

What is ChatGPT? ChatGPT is a large language model that has been trained on a massive amount of text data, allowing it to generate eerily human-like text in response to a given prompt OpenAI says its ChatGPT model has been trained using a machine learning technique called Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback (RLHF). This can simulate dialogue, answer follow-up questions, admit mistakes, challenge incorrect premises and reject inappropriate requests. It responds to text prompts from users and can be asked to write essays, lyrics for songs, stories, marketing pitches, scripts, complaint letters and even poetry. Advertisement

The IB offers four educational programmes that are taken by thousands of pupils each year at more than 120 British schools  but it's seen students buying essays from the internet 'for many years'.

'The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet,' Glanville told the Times.

'As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography.'

OpenAI built ChatGPT by training it with 570 GB of data collected from books, webtext, Wikipedia, articles and other online writings.

The responses that the bot generates are effectively a summary of all these inputs, making it a legitimate source to quote from.

Anyone  including children  can use ChatGPT as long as they sign up with a name, email address and phone number.

'To submit AI-generated work as their own is an act of academic misconduct and would have consequences  but that is not the same as banning its use,' Glanville said.

The 'extraordinary' technology shouldn't be seen as 'a threat' but rather considered in the same category as spell-checking software and translation apps, he added.

'We must accept that it is going to become part of our everyday lives.

'If an AI programme can indeed convincingly answer an exam question in the style of an 18-year-old student, why not take advantage of that fact in today's teaching and learning?'

The International Baccalaureate (IB) has seen students buying essays from the internet 'for many years'. The tool came up with a simply-worded yet detailed response to 'When was the Battle of Hastings?'

Globally, schools and universities have already banned ChatGPT due to its ability to produce essay-length responses that sound like they've been written by a human.

Student uses ChatGPT to write essay - although lecturer calls language 'fishy' - READ MORE A snippet of the essay written by the controversial AI software - which a university lecturer said was 'fishy' but was reminiscent of essays written by 'waffling, lazy' students Advertisement

New York's education department has banned the tool over 'concerns about negative impacts on student learning, and concerns regarding the safety and accuracy of contents'.

In Australia, schools and universities blocked access to ChatGPT on internet networks to attempt to prevent students from cutting corners in assessments and exam essays.

Students who have submitted ChatGPT-penned essays have had good results  one University of Bristol graduate got a pass mark of 53  equivalent to a 2:2  for his essay on social policy assessment.

The university lecturer who marked the work said the language used was 'fishy' and was reminiscent of essays written by 'waffling, lazy' students, despite giving it a passing grade.

Meanwhile, a test English essay produced by ChatGPT was awarded an A* grade at Alleyn's, an independent school in southeast London.

The school is now considering moving away from homework essays due to the 'game changing' power of ChatGPT and other AI systems.

'At the moment, children are often assessed using homework essays, based on what they've learnt in the lesson,' said Jane Lunnon, headteacher at Alleyn's.

'Clearly if we're in a world where children can access plausible responses  then the notion of saying simply do this for homework will have to go.

Pieter Snepvangers, a University of Bristol graduate, got a pass mark of 53 - equivalent to a 2:2 - for his essay on social policy assessment written by ChatGPT

'Homework will be good for practice but if you want reliable data on whether children are acquiring new skills and information, that will have to be done in lesson time, supervised.'

ChatGPT has taken the world by storm and reached more than 100 million users just three months after launching in November.

Aside from cheating in school, it's been used to write articles, generate recipes and even create malware.

Its success has created a panic at Google, which fears that its days as the world's number one search engine could soon come to an end.

Google scrambled to come up its own equivalent chat bot, called Bard, to be released in the 'coming weeks'.

Unfortunately for Google, Bard presented incorrect information as fact in a Twitter video, instantly wiping 100 billion from the tech giant's value.
Artificial intelligence has created an alcoholic beverage that tastes like the melted candy found at the bottom of your grandma's handbag - and it got a three out of 10 in taste.

This drink, called Grandma's Revenge, is just one recipe generated by the technology, which was asked to make cocktails based on names given by TikTok users.

Grandma's Revenge features brandy, sherry and port, while another called Burning Inferno is made with vodka and Tabasco sauce.

TikTok account Mob recently shared videos showing him following the instructions to make each drink based on what the AI churned out.

TikTok account Mob shared two videos showing cocktails generated by AI. The user asked the AI to provide ingredients and instructions to make a drink named Grandma's Revenge

AI was developed to improve our daily lives. It is used in self-driving cars, power chatbots, develop new medicines and now, the technology is helping people mix up unique cocktails.

Mob, which has 1.2 million followers, asked the AI to make an alcoholic beverage off a name he gave.

'Create me a cocktail recipe based on the name Burning Inferno,' the TikToker shared in one of the videos.

And in seconds, the AI-generated the ingredients and instructions to make the vodka-based drink.

This drink needs line juice, simple syrup, triple sec, Tabasco sauce and four slices of jalapenos.

The AI instructed the TikToker to fill a shaker with ice and add the ingredients - except for the jalapenos.

Then he was told to mix the ingredients well, strain the liquid into a rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with the jalapenos.

'That is good. I am going to give this a nine-and-a-half out of ten,' the TikToker said after taking a sip of the yellow-ish colored beverage.

The first video shows the AI suggestions for a drink called Burning Inferno, which calls for vodka and Tabasco sauce

During the video, the TikToker said he would ask the AI to make a drink someone suggested in the comments - Grandma's Revenge.

This drink features brandy, sherry, port, lime juice, lavender syrup, dashes of angostura bitters, butterscotch liqueur and a lavender spring as the garnish.

The AI's instructions read: ' Add the brandy, sherry and port to a shaker filled with ice.

'Shake vigorously for 20 seconds until well-chilled. Add the lime juice, lavender syrup and angostura bitters and stir to combine.

'Float the butterscotch liqueur on top. Garnish with a lavender sprig and serve.'

However, Grandma's Revenge left a bitter taste in the TikToker's mouth, who gave it a three out of 10.

Grandma's Revenge only got a three out of 10 for taste. The TikToker said it tastes like the melted candy you find at the bottom of your grandma's handbag

While asking AI to generate cocktail ingredients will not replace bartenders, AI-powered robtots that make the mixed drinks could. A robotic bartender named Cecilia - which can pour 120 drinks an hour and crack a few bad jokes - was unveiled in February 2022

While asking AI to generate cocktail ingredients will not replace bartenders, AI-powered robtots that make the mixed drinks could.

A robotic bartender named Cecilia - which can pour 120 drinks an hour and crack a few bad jokes - was unveiled in February 2022.

The seven-foot-tall interactive robot can speak 40 languages and has various features including an ID scanner, is currently residing at the Florida International University's Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management in Miami to teach hospitality students about the industry.

To use Cecilia, customers can verbally request their order or use a touchscreen menu to choose from a variety of cocktails which comes out of a slot in the machine.

The robot can respond with the options available or even suggesting an alternative for customers.

'The idea of a robot bartender replacing human mixologists is 'not even close to reality,'' Brian Connors, director of the Bacardi Center for Excellence and an FIU hospitality professor, told the Miami Herald.

'This is a defined mix of high tech and high touch hospitality. In this industry, we are always going to be people first. This is a team sport.'
The pass, initially due to be launched in November, will be valid for three years

The launch of a new travel pass for Britons travelling to Europe  which one expert has predicted will cause 'complete chaos'  has been delayed until next year.

The Etias pass, a USA-style Esta 'visa-waiver', will cost 6 (seven euros) and be valid for three years, or until a passport expires. It can be used for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Once it has been bought, Britons will get their fingerprints and photograph taken when they enter Europe  just as they are when arriving in the US.

The Etias, which stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System, was set to start this November but has been pushed to an unconfirmed date in 2024.

But Rob Burgess, founder of the frequent flyer website Head for Points, has outlined future challenges the pass poses. He told MailOnline Travel: 'The key issues are, frankly, that it's not well publicised and people don't know that they're going to have to apply for a visa waiver before they travel to Europe. Secondly, the requirement to be fingerprinted and photographed on your first visit to Europe after you've activated your Etias is going to cause unbelievable problems.'

He added: 'We've all heard stories of people who we've been stuck for three to four hours in US immigration, where there aren't any desks open and a few planes arrive at once and there's a lot of people on the flights who haven't actually gone through on the same Esta.'

The launch of the new Etias travel pass for Britons travelling to Europe - which one travel expert has predicted will cause 'complete chaos' - has been delayed until next year

There could also be significant queues to check in for Eurostar trains once the pass comes into effect. The travel expert said: 'At least for the first six to 12 months whilst people are registered and photographed, it could easily be complete chaos.'

He adds that it's not clear yet whether travellers will have to have their photograph and fingerprints taken every time they get a new Etias.

The pass will be required for anyone from a country whose citizens do not need a visa to visit Europe. That includes the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and Japan.

Once travellers have an Etias, it will cover all visits to Etias member countries. It's said that completing the online form to apply for one will take less than 10 minutes and everything will be registered and stored electronically.

The advice will be to apply for an Etias around four days before departure, and a decision on eligibility will generally be made within that timeframe.

The pass, which is a USA-style Esta 'visa-waiver', will cost travellers 6 (seven euros) and will be valid for three years, or until a traveller's passport expires

For some, the pass will be issued almost immediately after payment, while a very small number may need to wait up to four weeks.

Like the US Esta system, set up after 9/11, Etias is being introduced to improve security without having the bureaucracy of a full visa application. But it's being stressed that the Etias is for people from countries deemed a low security risk.

The EES (Entry/Exit System) system, which will work in conjunction with the Etias pass, is due to be rolled out at the end of the year.

It's an automated system, which requires travellers to scan their passports at a self-service kiosk, for registering travellers from non-EU countries whenever they cross a border. The system takes note of biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, and the date and place of entry and exit.
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When their family found fame through Keeping Up With The Kardashians, Kylie Jenner was simply a young girl who looked up to her glamorous older sisters.

However, ever since undergoing a much-discussed physical transformation as she went from her teens into adulthood, Kylie has often given the likes of Kim, Khloe and Kourtney a run for their money.

Indeed, the 25-year-old appears to have taken a lot of inspiration from her half-sister Kim, 42, as she slowly morphed into an equally striking bombshell that is the absolute double of her older sibling.

From their sculpted features, plump pouts and jaw-dropping curves, the resemblance between the pair has been so uncanny that fans are often left doing a double take.

Kylie Jenner appears to have taken a lot of inspiration from her half-sister Kim Kardashian over the years

The resemblance between the Kylie (right) and her older sibling (left) has been so uncanny that fans are often left doing a double take over the past decade

The beauty mogul (right) has slowly morphed into an equally striking bombshell that is the absolute double of her older sibling (left)

However, it's not just Kim's looks that appear to have been a inspiration for Kylie as the reality star also followed in her sister's footsteps when it comes to her romantic interests and her business pursuits.

Some would argue Kylie has successfully managed to overtake her sibling in terms of cultural relevance.

In the space of a decade, the Kylie Jenner Cosmetics founder has cultivated a higher following on social media, became the first to be named a 'billionaire' through her beauty empire - and even knocked Kim aside to become their mother Kris Jenner's favorite child!

Though this could cause tension for most siblings, Kylie revealed that Kim is her favorite sister in a recent interview.

She explained to Vanity Fair Italy that the duo have had lots of 'similar experiences lately' after both suffered public splits.

The make-up mogul broke up with her long-term partner and father of her two children, Travis Scott last month.

Meanwhile, Kim split from her last boyfriend Pete Davidson in August last year, before finally settling her divorce from ex-husband Kanye West in November.

Speaking about her favorite sibling, Kylie stated: 'It changes over time. Right now its Kim.'

Referencing their mutual breakups, she added: 'Kim has changed so much recently. We are very connected, she is always the first sister I call when I need something. We have been going through a lot of similar experiences lately.'

Here, DailyMail.com reveals the many similarities between the pair that highlights just how much Kylie has transformed into her sister Kim's mini-me.

Picture perfect features: From contoured cheeks to THAT signature plump pout, Kylie has followed Kim's lead and embraced extremely glamorous makeup

After undergoing a much-discussed transformation during her teens, Kylie has often given Kim a run for their money

As the youngest member of the Kardashian-Jenner family, the fresh-faced star was the most camera-shy when Keeping Up With The Kardashians became a hit reality series (pictured with Kim in 2009)

However, the world has watched on as the star embraced a much more glamorous look that is usually associated with her elder sister (pictured left in 2010 and right recently)

However, Kylie soon abandon her rock-chic look for perfectly contoured makeup, while she ditched her dyed-blue locks and began to sport long, stick-straight black extensions.

During her teenage years, Kylie showcased a much more grungy, goth style compared to her sister's love for Hollywood glam makeup and figure-hugging bandage dress.

However, Kylie soon abandoned her rock-chic look for perfectly contoured makeup, while she ditched her dyed-blue locks and began to sport long, stick-straight black extensions.

Kylie started showing off noticeably plumper lips in 2014 when she was just 16, sparkling speculation she had them cosmetically enhanced.

Then on a 2015 episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians - when she was just 17 - Kylie finally admitted getting temporary lip fillers to help create a pout that rivalled that of her older sister.

Much like Kim, Kylie has been inundated by never-ending speculation that she went under the knife in order to create the face she has become famous for.

Despite admitting to lip filler in the past, she has categorically denied she has had plastic surgery.

The reality star previously wrote on Twitter: 'These plastic surgery rumors hurt my feelings to be honest and are kinda insulting.'

Despite her claims, a plastic surgeon previously told MailOnline that he believed Kylie's face was the work of plastic surgery, in particular her 'thin nose' which he believed has been altered.

From 2016 onwards, Kylie (pictured right in 2019) became known for perfectly contoured makeup and long, stick-straight black extensions as loved by Kim (pictured in 2009)

Kylie turned her love of makeup into a successful business empire, while she has become a leader in makeup trends just like Kim (pictured in January 2023)

Even when Kylie (pictured left in 2016) switches up her hair style or color, she has often been seen sporting similar looks favored by Kim (pictured right in 2022)

The sisters has often used their likeness as a way to help boost sales for the beauty and fashion companies - pictured together in 2018 Kylie Cosmetics commercial

Alex Karidis, from the Karidis Clinic, claimed her changed nose could be down to rhinoplasty, and said: 'Her nose appears thinner, particularly at the tip.'

Kylie has continued to deny undergoing any other surgery on her face despite constant rumors surrounding the changing shape of her eyes, cheekbones and chin.

Top plastic surgeon Mark Ho-Asjoe also previously told Closer magazine that he believed the beauty mogul has had more work done than she claimed and this was 'aging her.'

He wrote: 'Kylie has made herself look way beyond her years. All the surgery I suspect she's had - fillers to her lips and cheeks, a nose job and possibly some bone shaving around her jaw - is aging her. Her eyes look wider, which implies she may have had eye surgery.

'If she continues with all these treatments, in 10 years' time the skin around her lips will have stretched like a balloon and if she doesn't keep plumping them up the skin will be wrinkled.'

Back in February 2019, Kylie once again denied having plastic surgery but was happy to admit that her look was not completely natural.

She told Paper: 'People think I fully went under the knife and completely reconstructed my face, which is completely false. I'm terrified! I would never. They don't understand what good hair and makeup and, like, fillers, can really do.'

When asked if she meant she had been relying on makeup tricks to get her look, Kylie replied: ''I mean, no. it's fillers. I'm not denying that.'

Bombshell body: Kylie might be a Jenner but she's still managed to display the famous 'Kardashian Kurves' following her striking transformation in her late teen years

Kylie has said in the past she is terrified of plastic surgery, claiming her curvy figure is down to weight gain as she became an adult (pictured with Kim in 2018)

Over the years, Kylie's curves have often appeared to eclipse that of Kim's as the pair showcase their figures on social media

The sisters are often happy to play up to their 'twinning' nature with matching outfits for nights out

Fans have watched Kylie transformed from a slim teenager into a voluptuous Instagram vixen (pictured left in 2012 and right in 2019)

Over the years, fans have watched Kylie transform from a slim teen into a voluptuous Instagram vixen.

In 2015, the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star chose to address the ongoing speculation on her website as she wrote: 'No, people - I haven't gotten breast implants.

'Everyone is obsessed with that. Truth is, as I've gotten older, I've gained 15 pounds and my body has changed; I've definitely filled out.'

She added: 'I just use the Bombshell (bra) by Victoria's Secret. It's life-changing. I've gotten all my sisters on it and all my friends...Clearly, it's like 10 times bigger - no contouring, no nothing.

'This is all padding. I think it makes your breast look great and girlie. This is it. No breast implants. No surgery. Nothing. It's amazing. So if you guys want this look, here's my secret.'

Kylie outshone her older sister in a stunning Ralph and Russo gown at Vanity Fairs Oscars afterparty in February 2020

In 2015, the TV star denied cosmetically enhancing her chest in a blog post, stating: 'No, people - I haven't gotten breast implants' (pictured left in 2019, and right in 2018)

Kylie's figure is far more similar to Kim than to her older sister Kendall Jenner, as highlighted in a 2021 Skims photoshoot

Kim and Kylie love to showcase the similarities in their curves, treating fans to multiple joint bikini snaps over the years

She added: 'Working with some of the best makeup artists has taught me a lot of amazing tricks to making me feel more confident and I can't wait to share them with you guys.

'I swear there are things you can do to work on problem areas without having to think about plastic surgery. (Contouring has changed my life!)'.

Meanwhile, Kylie has made it clear over the years that she has never been trying to take her sister's place, despite the public narrative.

Sharing a candid video on her app in 2016, she explained: 'People always put me and Kim in a competition, Or [say] I'm trying to be Kim or I'm trying to steal Kim's throne. I think people forget that me and Kim are sisters.'

She continued: 'We're not in a competition. We're completely different people. She's one of my biggest inspirations. That's not a secret. I look up to my sister. I don't think that's a weird thing. We have a lot of love for each other.'

When her former best friend Jordyn Woods responded, 'Little sisters just look up to their older sisters. It's just human nature', Kylie responded: 'I do want to be Kim.'

Mom's favorite daughter: Momager Kris Jenner has spoken candidly about the fact Kylie overtook Kim as her favorite child

Momager Kris Jenner has admitted that Kylie is her favorite child - taking over from Kim

When Keeping Up With the Kardashians first launched, it was quickly made clear that Kim was the favorite child

When Keeping Up With the Kardashians first launched, it always seemed that Kim Kardashian was Kris Jenners favorite child.

Kim confirmed as much when she and sisters Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian made an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in 2019.

Khloe claimed that about ten years before, Kim had been the favorite because the momager was wrapped up in her daughters career.

The sisters were in agreement that Kylie had since pushed her way to the top of their moms list.

During a 2022 episode of The Late Late Show, the matriarch of reality TV's first family was hooked up to a lie detector machine and asked to finally confirm her favorite child.

Fans have joked in the past that Kris' favorite child changes in relation to how much money they are making (pictured in a matching outfit with Kylie as they fly on a private jet)

When Kylie brought up the all-important question. Kris immediately said 'yes'.

'I can't go home,' the momager jokingly added as host James Corden noted: 'Oh my god. The speed in which you answered.'

Back in 2020, Kim had revealed her theory about why Kylie had become their momager's favorite child.

During a YouTube video where Kylie did Kim's makeup while answering fan questions, one of their fans wanted to know which of the sisters is Kris' favorite.

Kim asked: 'Who do you think mom likes better? I think she likes you better.'

'I think youre her OG, you know,,' Kylie replied. 'She definitely likes us the same, but if were being funny Shes like me, and I treat her like the queen of the world.'

To which Kim claimed: 'It like truly is just that you treat her the most amazing.'

Love lockdown: Like Kim, Kylie has ended a long-term romance with her rapper baby daddy

The Kylie Cosmetics founder shares two children with rapper Travis Scott - pictured with five-year old daughter Stormi

The couple also share one-year-old son, Aire, who was born last year in February 2022

Kim finally settled her divorce from ex-husband Kanye West in November 2022

The former couple share four kids; North, nine, Saint, six, Chicago, four, and Psalm, three

Both Kylie and Kim has had high-profiles relationships with famous rappers over the past decade.

The Kylie Cosmetics founder shares two children with hitmaker Travis Scott, their daughter, Stormi, five, and one-year-old son, Aire, who was born last year in February 2022.

They reportedly decided to call it quits for the second time in January after the two stars rekindled their romance in 2020.

'This has happened so many times before, theyre known to be on again off again, but always remain friends and great co-parents,' an insider told Us Weekly.

Meanwhile, Kim and rap icon Kanye West officially settled their divorce in November 2022 after an ugly public battle that raged on for almost two years since they split.

The pair have now come to an accord on the custody of their four kids, parenting plans and division of their multimillion dollar real estate portfolio.

Kanye, 45, and Kim share joint custody and have 'equal access' to their four kids North, nine, Saint, six, Chicago, four, and Psalm, three.

Mogul mamas: Both reality stars are running multi-million dollar businesses alongside raising their children and starring on their Hulu reality series, The Kardashians

Just like her sister Kim, the star has used the interest in her flawless looks to build a beauty empire

The reality star has become one of the richest women in the United States under 30 thanks to her many brands

In November 2019, Coty bought out a 51 per cent majority stake in the company in a deal worth about $600 million

Elsewhere, fans have witnessed grow from an awkward teenager to a mogul with multimillion-dollar business to her name.

Much like Kim, Kylie has use the interest in her looks and her ever-growing fan following to help herself become one of the richest women in the United States under 30.

Both Kylie and Kim continue to expand their business empires by collaborating with each other - pictured in a 2019 Kylie Jenner by KKW Fragrance shoot

With the help of mother Kris, Kylie Cosmetics was launched in 2014 in partnership with Seed Beauty.

The then 17-year-old invested $250,000 from her own income into the company and she has since been reaping the rewards in the years that have followed.

By February 2016, the company had to ramp up its manufacturing capacity and within its first 18 months of operation, it had generated more than $420 million in revenues.

Kylie's venture ultimately expanded from just Lip Kits to a whole range of cosmetics including eyeshadows, blush, and foundation.

In July 2018 and at the age of 20, she became the youngest person to be listed in the Forbes list of America's Richest Self-Made Women with an estimated net worth of nearly $900 million.

In November 2018, Kylie Cosmetics further ramped up its retail and digital expansions by partnering up with Ulta Beauty and launching a mobile app in the same month.

By September 2019, Kylie had successfully expanded her brand into skincare and personal fragrances.

In November of that same year, Coty bought out a 51 per cent majority stake in the company in a deal worth about $600 million. This deal put the company at a $1.2 billion valuation and pushed Kylie's net worth over the billion-dollar mark.

However, in 2020, Forbes reported that the Coty deal also highlighted that Kylie's business had actually been much less profitable than what she had publicly stated. The company revised her net worth to $900 million, thus stripping her of the billionaire's title.

Kylie continued to expand her business empire by launching new product lines like Kylie Swim, a swimwear line, in August 2021, and Kylie Baby, a skincare product line for babies, in September 2021.
Spencer Matthews has said retracing his late brother's steps for a new Disney+ documentary is the 'closest he's felt' to his sibling since his death in 1999.

The former Made In Chelsea star, 34, filmed Finding Michael with the help of survivalist Bear Grylls and record-breaking mountaineer Nirmal 'Nims' Purja, after his sibling disappeared on Mount Everest.

Ahead of its release, he told The Sunday Times: ''I'm not the most emotional person but the nearer we got to the mountain, the more potent my feelings became. It's the closest I've felt to Mike since his death.'

He went on to discuss his reasons for recovering her late brother's body in the upcoming gut-wrenching doc entitled Finding Michael'.

'He's frozen in time. I'm his big brother now. I was unable to stop thinking about it. I wanted to bring him home for my mum.'

Emotional: Spencer Matthews, 34, has said retracing his late brother's steps for a new Disney+ documentary is the 'closest he's felt' to his sibling since his death in 1999

RIP: The former Made In Chelsea star filmed Finding Michael with the help of survivalist Bear Grylls and record-breaking mountaineer Nirmal 'Nims' Purja, after his sibling disappeared on Mount Everest (Michael pictured on Everest)

Challenge: Ahead of its release, he said: ''I'm not the most emotional person but the nearer we got to the mountain, the more potent my feelings became. It's the closest I've felt to Mike since his death.

Spencer added: 'I found the idea unbearable of him being out there on the mountain, alone, with people walking past him en route to the summit.

Michael Matthews became the youngest Briton to reach the summit of Everest at the age of 22, but disappeared on the mountain just three hours later.

The trailer for Finding Michael begins with Spencer looking at a picture of his brother wearing a red ski jacket, saying: 'I hate the picture. All I see is a young man in the process of losing his life.'

He continues: 'Michael was my big brother. 20 odd years later we are sent this photograph of a body, it looks like it could be Michael.

'My heart says we should go and find him. And if we can, bring him home.

'We need the best people possible. We have one of the greatest, Nims Purja. We have to look all over the mountain.'

Spencer can be seen kissing his wife Vogue Williams, holding their new-born baby, who says: 'God I hope you find him.'

She is later seen getting emotional while on a video call to Spencer who is out on the expedition.

Brothers: Spencer (left) spoke candidly about his elder brother (right) with whom he shares a striking resemblance

Sad loss: Michael Matthews became the youngest Briton to reach the summit of Everest at the age of 22, but disappeared on the mountain just three hours later

Honesty: Spencer said: 'He's frozen in time. I'm his big brother now. I was unable to stop thinking about it. I wanted to bring him home for my mum.'

World '14 peak' record holder Nirmal leads the 10-man search crew armed with drones and the trailer shows the crew as they face unexpected and extreme challenges as well as intense time pressures when the weather closes in.

TV presenter and executive producer Bear says: 'Stay safe. If you get hold of Mike, I hear his voice screaming that one loud.'

He later added: 'On average, seven people every year of those attempting Everest will lose their lives.

'No mountain is worth dying for a second time over.'

Spencer retraced the 'exact steps' his sibling took when he died descending the world's highest peak in 1999.

Michael is said to have got in trouble after beginning to make his way down the south descent through the 'death zone' on May 13, 1999.

He was the brother of Pippa Middleton's husband, the racing driver turned hedge fund manager James Matthews, 47.

The experienced mountaineer, who had previously conquered Aconcagua, the Pyrenees and the Swiss Alps, was the 162nd person to die on Everest.

Michael's body has never been recovered and his family have never been able to fully understand what happened to him.

Tears: Spencer added: 'I found the idea unbearable of him being out there on the mountain, alone, with people walking past him en route to the summit

Sad: The trailer for Finding Michael begins with Spencer looking at a picture of his brother wearing a red ski jacket, saying: 'I hate the picture. All I see is a young man in the process of losing his life'

Challenge: World '14 peak' record holder Nirmal leads the 10-man search crew armed with drones and the trailer shows the crew as they face unexpected and extreme challenges as well as intense time pressures when the weather closes in

But in the new documentary with Disney+, Spencer - who was only ten at the time of his death - embarks on a journey to find his brother's body and bring it home.

He was said to have the backing of his parents and his brother James to create the 'emotional' project.

Spencer trekked to South Base Camp base camp via Namche Bazaar, a town in north-eastern Nepal, often the staging point for expeditions to and other Himalayan peaks.

He made the journey just five days after the birth of his son Otto after a 'weather window' made scaling the mountain feasible.

Brothers: TV personality Spencer was 10 years old when Michael (left next to sibling James) tragically died aged 22 - after becoming the youngest Brit to reach the peak in 1999

Project: During the film, Spencer undertook a 'gut-wrenching' mission to climb Mount Everest to find the body of his brother Michael

Spencer would have otherwise been left facing another year of waiting to begin the search, revealing that he had the backing of his wife Vogue.

The South Base Camp is at an altitude of 5,364 metres.

Describing the trek, he said: 'You don't have to be superman to do it. You come across this town [Namche Bazaar] in the sky. It's amazing. It's above the clouds. It reminded me of Asgard.

'Part of the film is that we retrace the exact steps that Mike and his friends took. We stay in the same places and do the same path as he did. It'll be a really powerful and amazing film'.

Finding Michael, directed by Tom Beard, is set to premiere on Disney+ on March 3.
A social media influencer who gatecrashed the filming of a MAFS wedding has leaked the threatening messages he allegedly received from a furious producer.

Josh Fox, a journalist and content producer who runs the popular Instagram account MAFS Funny, exposed the angry messages during a Q&A with fans on Sunday, revealing he'd kept them secret for months but decided to finally 'go rogue' when a follower asked whether the show's producers found him 'annoying'.

The incident occurred after Fox interrupted the Endemol Shine crew as they tried to film Ollie Skelton stepping into a limousine before his wedding to Tahnee Cook.

Fox said most producers just 'laugh' at his antics, but on this occasion a male producer was left seeing red - even though the scene was being filmed on a public footpath.

'Hey mate, w**ker you are! Crashing shoots and wrecking audio. I know that female producer and you just ruined her shoot,' the unnamed producer allegedly wrote to Fox via Instagram DMs shortly after the gatecrashing incident.

A social media influencer who gatecrashed the filming of a MAFS wedding has leaked the threatening messages he allegedly received from a furious producer. (Pictured: MAFS couple Tahnee Cook and Ollie Skelton on their wedding day)

'She will have to answer to the execs for your antics. I cannot stand gutless men like you, mate, where you think you can push women around to get what you want,' he added.

The producer concluded with a thinly veiled threat: 'I look forward to seeing you on my shoot, mate, but you will not receive a polite response from me, mate.'

Fox then shared the footage he'd captured during the wedding shoot as proof he did not 'ruin' anything.

Josh Fox, a content producer who runs the MAFS Funny Instagram account, exposed the angry messages during a Q&A on Sunday, revealing he'd kept them secret for months but decided to finally 'go rogue' when a follower asked whether the show's producers found him 'annoying'

The incident occurred after Fox interrupted the Endemol Shine crew as they tried to film Ollie Skelton stepping into a limousine before his wedding to Tahnee Cook

Fox shared the threatening message allegedly sent to him by a male producer after the incident. The producer included the thinly veiled threat: 'I look forward to seeing you on my shoot, mate, but you will not receive a polite response from me, mate'

'It was on a public street, they were not recording any audio, there were five male crew members also there and I ruined nothing,' Fox wrote.

'I don't think the shot was used on the show.'

In Australia it is not illegal to film or take photos of someone on a public street, even if the person is shooting a scene for a television show or movie.

Fox then revealed he'd responded to the 'flop' producer, writing: 'Is it part of your role as a MAFS producer to threaten people? I'm going to do an article on it.'

'And he unsent the message so fast, blocked me, deactivated his LinkedIn and a few weeks later when I eventually say him, you know what he did? Instantly looked down and walked past me as fast as he could as I stood staring at him with a smile on my face,' Fox explained.
She is known for her ageless appearance.

And Sonia Kruger showed off her famously youthful figure on Friday as she stepped out for a work event in Sydney's Rose Bay.

The dancer-turned-TV presenter, 57, looked incredible as she flaunted her trim pins in a daring thigh-split dress.

Sonia turned heads in the colourful tie-dye frock, which featured a deep V-neckline.

The eye-catching number hugged her curves in all the right places, cinching in at the waist and featuring a flowing skirt.

Sonia Kruger showed off her famously youthful figure on Friday as she stepped out for a work event in Sydney's Rose Bay

Sonia, who was at a Channel Seven event, added height to her frame with a pair of strappy heels, and accessorised with a chic pair of gold-framed sunglasses.

She wore her blonde locks out and over her shoulders and showed off a golden tan.

Sonia has previously revealed the Bio-Oil hydrating gel moisturiser is one of her beauty must-haves, and uses it daily on her skin.

The 57-year-old turned heads in the colourful tie-dye frock, which featured a deep V-neckline

She also said it had given her the 'confidence' to 'love the skin I'm in' and she'd added it to her morning and night routine.

Sonia recently revealed the secrets to her incredible figure, telling The Courier Mail she focuses on good nutrition and exercises regularly.

She said she eats vegetables, salads and protein, but also has the occasional treat.

She explained it's important to have everything in moderation and consume foods that are nutritious.

Sonia, who was attending a Channel Seven event, added height to her frame with a pair of strappy heels, and accessorised with a chic pair of gold-framed sunglasses

'You have got to give yourself little treat days and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that,' she said.

When it comes to exercise, Sonia loves to do a workout at home in the morning.

'Then you're done and you've got it out of the way and you don't have to worry about going to the gym and being seen by people in public,' she explained.

The Big Brother host also admitted she's not a huge fan of exercise but 'likes the way she feels afterwards'.




Hyundai Motor Group tests autonomous driving delivery service using robots in Rolling Hills Hotel in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province on Dec. 16, 2022. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor Group



By Kim Hyun-bin



Major conglomerates view the robot business as a future growth engine. Competition is heating up with the market expected to grow to 177 trillion won ($140 billion) in four years, according to industry officials, Monday.



According to market researcher, Brand Essence Market Research and Consulting, the service robot market is expected to expand from $35.24 billion in 2021 to $140.94 billion in 2027. Samsung Electronics, Hyundai Motor Group, and LG Electronics are interested in developing and marketing a wide range of robots from medical workers to museum curators.



Samsung Electronics plans to introduce its first robot within this year. At a press conference at the beginning of the year, Han Jong-hee, vice-chairman of the Device Experience (DX) division at Samsung Electronics, said, "We plan to introduce an assistive device robot named 'EX1' within this year."



The 'EX1' can be worn on the hips and knees to help the elderly walk and exercise. Samsung Electronics has applied for more than 10 robot patents related to technology assisting people's movements.



Samsung Electronics has been steadily reviewing investments in the robot industry. In 2021, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong announced that he would invest 240 trillion won over three years, citing robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) as future growth engines.





Robots manufacture washing machines at LG Electronics Tennessee plant. Courtesy of LG Electronics
She was just 10 years old when we first met her on The Bachelor in 2015.

But Snezana Wood's daughter Eve is now on the edge of adulthood, and hit a major milestone last week when she attended her school formal.

Her proud mum shared a gallery of photos on Instagram of the 17-year-old in a glittering longline dress with white strappy sandals and a designer clutch.

'Last night was our little Vivi's Year 12 formal' Snezana said of her daughter, who posed for photos in the family's living room before the big dance.

Stepdad Sam was equally proud of Eve, sharing similar photos on his Instagram with the caption: 'Just wow! So proud of the young woman you're becoming.'

Sam and Snezana Wood's 17-year-old daughter Eve attended her school formal last week

She is seen here with her mum Snezana Wood (nee Markoski) and stepdad Sam Wood

Several of the Woods' famous friends commented on the photos, with footy WAG Bec Judd writing: 'Stunning!!!'

It comes after Eve soft-launched her modelling career earlier this month when she tagged a popular bikini brand in one of her Instagram posts.

The talented teen looked every inch the professional model as she posed in the Vinca-Savoca bikini by the Aussie label Triangl.

Her proud mum shared a gallery of photos on Instagram of the 17-year-old in a glittering longline dress with white strappy sandals and a designer clutch

'Last night was our little Vivi's Year 12 formal' Snezana said of her daughter, who posed for photos in the family's living room before the big dance

In the picture, Eve looked like a pro as she strutted her stuff in the lime green two-piece against the backdrop of a blue sky.

In March last year, Snezana revealed her daughter was working towards a career in fashion when the two attended Melbourne Fashion Festival.

Sharing a photo of the pair, Snez wrote: 'Mother-daughter date night with @eve.vict who is working towards a career in fashion is absolutely killing it.'

Stepdad Sam was equally proud of Eve, sharing similar photos on his Instagram with the caption: 'Just wow! So proud of the young woman you're becoming.'

The teenager's Instagram bio listed her as a 'model' at the time, but this has since been updated to 'digital creator'.

Snezana also shares daughters Willow, three, Charlie, two, and baby Harper with her husband-of-four-years Sam Wood.

Eve is Snezana's daughter from her first marriage.

The Woods met on The Bachelor in 2015 and remain one of the franchise's success stories, alongside Tim Robards and Anna Heinrich.

Sam is responsible for the highly successful fitness program 28 by Sam Wood.

It comes after Eve soft-launched her modelling career earlier this month when she tagged a popular bikini brand in one of her Instagram posts
Demi Lovato was spotted cutting a casual figure as she caught a flight out of Los Angeles on Sunday.

The Cool for the Summer hitmaker, 30, held hands with her boyfriend Jordan Lutes, 25  whom she previously serenaded for Valentine's Day  as they made their way through the crowded airport.

Lovato  who is nonbinary and uses both she/her and they/them pronouns  rocked a casual look for her travel day, donning a black oversize fuzzy jacket and loose dark-wash jeans.

She paired her ensemble with more dark-colored pieces, including a T-shirt, platform boots and a purse.

The Camp Rock actor accessorized with a silver necklace and a pair of sunglasses on her face.

Rocker chic: Demi Lovato was spotted cutting a casual figure at LAX on Sunday

Her makeup was expertly done, giving off a very minimal effect, and she had her short hair slicked back off of her face.

Lutes, who stayed close to the star's side, sported a black leather jacket over a gray hoodie, which he had pulled up over his head.

The Canadian musician also had on maroon pants, black converse sneakers and a pair of sunglasses.

On his back, he carried a large tan backpack as he made his way through LAX.

The couple sparked romance rumors back in August 2022 after they were spotted on a dinner date in NYC.

They were then photographed holding hands as they left the Italian restaurant LAVO together.

Lutes, who goes by the stage name Jutes, worked with Lovato on her upcoming eighth album Holy F***.

He also has two albums of his own under his belt titled Overrated and A Really Bad Dream.

On the go: The 30-year-old held hands with her boyfriend Jordan Lutes

Loved-up: The couple sparked romance rumors in August of last year after getting spotted on a dinner date; Lovato and Lutes in 2023

Perfect pair: The Heart Attack songstress recently shared an adorable post to Lutes for Valentine's Day

The rocker couple recently celebrated their first Valentine's Day together, which prompted Lovato to share a loved-up Instagram tribute to her beau.

Lovato's caption began: 'Life has become so enriched by you. Life has become a dream come true. Im so beyond grateful to have found my person in you.

'Falling asleep and waking up next to my best friend has made me so filled w joy I cant even begin to explain.. my best friend, soul mate, twin flame, honeybun.. and the list goes on'

The hitmaker continued to gush about Lutes in their caption, writing: 'The fun and laughs never stop w you.. I can be my weirdest goofy self and you never judge me.

'Thank you for making me the happiest lil thing on earth.. happy first Valentines day together.. I love you @jutesmusic.'

Twin flames: She posted several cute photos with the musician and wrote a heartwarming caption about him

Adorable: Lutes recently worked with Lovato on her upcoming eighth album, Holy Fvck

Lovato has been connected to a number of famous faces throughout the years, including Joe Jonas and That '70s Show star Wilmer Valderrama.

Before getting together with Lutes, Lovato was in a highly-publicized relationship with actor Max Ehrich.

They started dating in 2020 and even got engaged, though they were broken up before the year was out.

Previous relationships: The Disney Channel alum previously dated Wilmer Valderrama for almost six years; Wilmer and Demi at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in 2016
Lori Harvey stunned in Italy on Saturday when she rocked a plunging denim shirt without a bra during Milan Fashion Week.

The 26-year-old model  who recently posted throwback snippets of her gorgeous vacation in Brazil  commanded attention in her sexy ensemble as she attended the Bally show.

Harvey paired her denim top with a very leggy black skirt that featured a thigh-high slit nearly up to her hip.

Ornate gold cuffs adorned her writs and cascading gold earrings graced either ear, gilding the influencer's beautiful face.

She treated her five million Instagram followers to a collection of photographs that showed her ruling the front row beside the runway.

Captioning her post, Lori wrote: 'Congratulations on another incredible collection @rhuigi @bally!!! Thank you for having me.'

Lori was in good company at the A-list show, as she sat in between Dixie D'Amelio and J Balvin.

D'Amelia stunned in a chic white dress with slick hair, while J Balvin sheathed himself in black from head to toe.

Harvey's hair was styled in a perfect bob, and she finished off her look with white pumps.

Lori recently supported her leading man boyfriend Damson Idris, 31, at the premiere for the sixth and final season of his show Snowfall.

After initially playing it coy about their budding romance, the handsome couple, who only just went Instagram official at the beginning of 2023, weren't shy in packing on the PDA at the premiere.

Harvey, who is the daughter of comedian Steve Harvey, recently had a high-profile relationship with actor and director Michael B. Jordan, 36.

Idris, 31, confirmed he and Harvey were an item when he shared romantic photos of the pair, which came about seven months after she had split from Jordan.

Gorgeous: Lori Harvey, 26, stunned in Italy on Saturday when she rocked a plunging denim shirt without a bra during Milan Fashion Week (Pictured at the L.A. premiere of Snowfall earlier this month)
Drake alluded to a future 'graceful exit' from the music industry during a new interview with rapper Lil Yachty.

The 36-year-old Hotline Bling rapper mentioned that he was starting to consider a graceful exit though he didn't give a timetable for such an exit.

'Well, I think on a broader scale, I think Im at the point now where I just wanna  I feel like maybe we talked about this the other day  but I feel like Im kind of introducing the concept in my mind of a graceful exit,' he told the 25-year-old Broccoli rapper.

The interview, posted to Yachty's YouTube channel, continued with Drake adding, 'I feel like a lot of people that Ive watched as the years have gone on, its a really addictive competitive space. Oftentimes youre addicted to the competition itself.'

When asked if he's already ready for retirement, the Degrassi: The Next Generation actor was quick to shut that speculation down.

'Graceful exit': Drake alluded to a future 'graceful exit' from the music industry during a new interview with rapper Lil Yachty. (Drake pictured 2016)

'Im not ready now, but to gracefully continue making projects that are extremely interesting and hopefully cherished by people, and then to find the right time to say, "I cant wait to see what the next generation does,"' he explained.

'Ill still be around to work with people or do a show here or there, but Im not going to force myself to compete,' Drake added. 'I would love to just see what the next generation does, whenever that time is. So, I guess thats the one thing that I want for myself really badly.'

Drake last came out with a full-length album last year titled Her Loss. The collaborative album was made with 21 Savage.

The One Dance rapper stayed busy last year, also releasing a solo album titled Honestly, Nevermind.

Even if he decides to walk away from the music industry, Drake has a number of other projects outside of it to work on.

The Ice Age: Continental Drift actor has recently expanded his interests into film and television producing. He serves as an executive producer on the hit show Euphoria and produced the Christian Bale movie Amsterdam which came out last year.

He has a pair of projects currently in the works. The movie Sprial 'follows a former influencer whose addiction to social media is causing her body to literally fall apart,' according to its IMDb page.

Timeline not mentioned: The 36-year-old Hotline Bling rapper mentioned that he was starting to consider a graceful exit though he didn't give a timetable for such an exit (pictured 2022)

'Competitive industry': The interview, posted to Yachty's YouTube channel, continued with Drake adding, 'I feel like a lot of people that Ive watched as the years have gone on, its a really addictive competitive space. Oftentimes youre addicted to the competition itself (pictured 2022)

Working in film: Even if he decides to walk away from the music industry, Drake has a number of other projects outside of it to work on (pictured 2019)

It will star Selena Gomez as the former influencer while famed music video director Petra Collins will helm the movie.

He's also part of the team producing The 48 Laws of Power. It is a Quibi series all about getting and maintaining power.

Drake has also been busy as a father, spending quite a bit of time with his son Adonis who turned five in October. He shares Adonis with French artist Sophie Brussaux.
Cara Delevingne made a glamorous red carpet appearance at the Screen Actors Guild awards on Sunday night.

The model, 30, stunned in a black trouser suit with two large roses on it, showcasing her slender figure for the evening out in California.

She also donned a large floor length cape, giving her look an eye-catching touch.

Cara complemented her outfit with a pair of strappy black peep toe heels, adding inches to her height.

The beauty wore her blonde locks in a sleek straightened style as they cascaded down her back.

Stunner: Cara Delevingne made a glamorous red carpet appearance at the SAG awards in a black trouser suit and large cape on Sunday night

Beauty: Cara complemented her outfit with a pair of strappy black peep toe heels, adding inches to her height

She accessorised with a pair of silver earrings and a necklace as she pouted and smiled at the event.

Cara worked with celebrity makeup artist Wendy Rowe for the glittering event - with the beauty pro revealing that she prepped the model and actress's skin with products from Hanacure in order to ensure that her complexion glowed all night long.

'Hanacure products are ideal skincare prep for a big event or special occasion,' Wendy shared. 'These products - including the Microphol Neutralizing Cleanser and the All-In-One Facial Set - make a real difference instantly to your skins texture for a flawless looking complexion which is great for a red carpet event.'

The 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, honours the best achievements in film and television performances for the year 2022.

It comes after Cara's docuseries, Planet Sex, premiered in the US on February 14 after airing on the BBC in the UK late last year.

According to Variety, the six-part series follows the supermodel as she explores her journey to self-discovery' while traveling the world to discuss the topic with others.

The actress and model identifies as 'openly queer'.

In recent years she has been linked primarily with women and had a long relationship with Pretty Little Liars actress Ashley Benson.

The second and final season of Cara's show Carnival Row released its first two episodes on February 17.

It is a steampunk-themed series that has been released exclusively on Amazon Prime.

Glam: The beauty wore her blonde locks in a sleek straightened style as they cascaded down her back

Looking good: She accessorised with a pair of silver earrings and a necklace as she pouted and smiled at the event

Cara stars as a fairy named Vignette Stonemoss alongside Orlando Bloom, who plays detective Rycroft Philostrate.

The first season was released back in 2019.

And according to the IMDb synopsis, the show follows, 'A human detective and a fairy rekindle a dangerous affair in a Victorian fantasy world, where the city's uneasy peace collapses when a string of murders reveals an unimaginable monster.'
Radio host Kate Ritchie is planning to jump ship from Nova's national drive show to the network's Sydney breakfast program, industry insiders claim.

Ritchie announced last year she was taking a break from the Kate, Tim & Joel show to focus on her health, but sources at the network say she may never return.

The 44-year-old, who during her time away from the microphone sought treatment for alcohol dependency at a rehab centre, reportedly has her sights set on joining Fitzy and Wippa - a move that could give the show a much-needed ratings boost.

Ritchie has remained silent on her return date, despite teasing in January she would be back on air with her co-hosts Joel Creasey and Tim Blackwell in a matter of weeks.

Ricki-Lee Coulter has been filling in for Ritchie during her absence, and could be looking at a more permanent gig if the former soap star does join forces with Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli this year, reports The Australian.

Radio host Kate Ritchie (pictured in September 2019) is planning to jump ship from Nova FM's national drive show to the network's Sydney breakfast program, industry insiders claim

Fitzy and Wippa's co-host Sarah McGilvray has also been absent for the past two weeks, suggesting she could be making way for Ritchie's big debut.

Ritchie, who has been hosting Nova's national drive show since 2014, announced in October she was stepping away from the Kate, Tim and Joel show.

It was later revealed she was seeking treatment for alcohol dependency, after Daily Mail Australia obtained photos of her outside a rehab facility.

The 44-year-old, who during her time away from the microphone sought treatment for alcohol dependency, has her sights set on joining Fitzy and Wippa - a move that could give the show a much-needed ratings boost. (Pictured: Ryan 'Fitzy' Fitzgerald and Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli)

The ex-Home and Away actress subsequently said in a statement the challenges of the past year had led to an 'unhealthy reliance on alcohol'.

On January 20, the media personality reassured listeners she was 'doing well' and would be back on her Nova FM drive show soon.

'Hi all, I'll be away for a few more weeks,' she wrote on Instagram.

Ritchie has remained silent on her return date, despite teasing in January she would be back on air with her co-hosts Joel Creasey (right) and Tim Blackwell (left) in a matter of weeks

Meanwhile, the mother of one's love life has been making headlines after she was recently spotted kissing a mystery man in Sydney.

Her last confirmed relationship was with cyber security expert John Bell, who is in his mid-twenties, but they split after dating for less than a year.

Ritchie was previously married to retired NRL player Stuart Webb, with whom she shares daughter Mae.
Bangers and Cash's Derek Mathewson has reportedly left his wife of 40 years Sue for a relationship with a colleague 26 years his junior.

According to The Sun the 71-year-old star of the UK TV car auction series grew close to married colleague Vicki Ivens, 45, after working together at his family run business in Yorkshire.

Vicki worked at the Mathewsons office, and like Sue, also 71, appeared a number of times on the show.

It's believed their budding relationship was rumbled when they were confronted with damning phone-bills.

A source told the publication: 'Last month, Sue turned up at Nicholas's house [Vicki's husband] with a list of phone numbers'.

Shock! Bangers and Cash's Derek Mathewson has reportedly left his wife of 40-years Sue for a relationship with a colleague 26 years his junior.

Troubles of the heart: The 71-year-old star of the UK TV car auction series grew close to married colleague Vicki Ivens, 45, after working together at his family run business in Yorkshire

'He checked his bill and there were about 180 calls between them in three weeks.

'He confronted Vicki and she said she was glad he'd found out and was pleased she didn't have to lie anymore'.

Sue, with whom Derek shares adult sons Paul and Dave, gave Vicki her marching orders from the business and she is now believed to be working at Flamingo Land Theme Park.

Vicki and husband of 20-years Nicholas, have since divorced and she is reported to be spending her evenings with new love Derek.

MailOnline have contacted reps for Derek and the show for comment.

The show has been a huge hit with viewers with Mail Online's Christopher Stevens describing it as 'bliss for car-lovers'.

Writing: 'Bangers And Cash is bliss for car-lovers like me who simply enjoy mooning over the models we loved in our youth'.

This hit documentary series follows the Mathewsons classic car auctioneer business, which is based in the village of Thornton-Le-Dale in the North York Moors National Park.

Starting in 2018, there has now been seven series of the hit Yesterday Channel show.

In 2022 it spawned it's own spin-off in the form of Bangers & Cash: Restoring Classics.

The weekly show has an average viewing figure of more than 500,000 per episode.

Cast: Vicki worked at the Mathewsons office, and like Sue, also 71, appeared a number of times on the show (L-R) Sarah, Paul, Dave and Derek
Haley Lu Richardson turned heads as she put on a dazzling display wearing a pearl-studded sequin dress as she made an appearance at the 29th Annual SAG Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The former Disney channel star, 27, showcased her toned frame in the form-fitting gown as she stepped onto the star-studded red carpet alongside other celebrities, such as Jamie Lee Curtis.

The talented actress recently portrayed the role of Portia in HBO's hit series, The White Lotus, which has received two SAG nominations, including Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.

Fellow co-star, Jennifer Coolidge, has additionally snagged a nod for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series.

The special ceremony welcomes top Hollywood stars as it recognizes the best in both television and film, and will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades.

Wow! Haley Lu Richardson, 27, turned heads wearing a pearl-embellished sequin dress as she attended the 2023 SAG Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Haley made a show-stopping appearance as she arrived at the venue wearing a black, strapless sequin gown that contained numerous pearl accents throughout the fabric.

Most of the embellishments were placed on the bodice portion down towards her waist for a one-of-a-kind touch.

The dress clung to her toned physique and fell down straight past her ankles, concealing the shoes she had donned to pair with the gown.

The Five Feet Apart actress carried a matching pearl-embellished handbag in her hand to coincide with her red carpet look for the big night.

As she posed for a quick photo session on the red carpet before the ceremony commenced, the star's dress shimmered under the lights due to the sequin fabric.

Her locks were parted in the middle, and swept up into a chic bun to prevent any loose strands from falling onto her face.

Haley's makeup was elegantly done for the ceremony, and comprised of a layer of black mascara to her lashes along with a shimmering shadow around her eyes.

She also opted for a rosy pink blush to better accentuate her cheekbones, and for a bold finish, added a matte red tint to her lips.

Unique details: Most of the pearl embellishments were placed on the bodice portion down towards her waist for a one-of-a-kind touch

Form-fitting: The dress clung to her toned physique and fell down straight past her ankles, concealing the shoes she had donned to pair with the gown

To accessorize her dress, Haley opted to not add a flashy necklace in order to allow the gown to be the main focal point.

Instead, The Edge Of Seventeen star donned a pair of dangly, rhinestone earrings that gave a sparkling addition.

The actress, who recently made an appearance in the Jonas Brothers' latest music video titled Wings, was one of the first to excitedly reveal the SAG nominations on her Instagram stories last month in January, reported Us Weekly.

During a recent interview with Variety, Haley opened up about playing Portia in The White Lotus, who was Tanya's (portrayed by Jennifer Coolidge) assistant. She also discussed the audience's reactions towards her character.

'It is alarming how critical the internet has been to her, because this show is filled with f***ed up personalities, they have very problematic views on the world and say things that are just ridiculous, and make choices that are just so deeply concerning for humanity.'

Although Portia was 'really getting picked apart,' the actress admitted that she had fun reading, 'about it and kind of be part of the whole conversation and know that this person that I was part of bringing to life, sparked so many opinions.'

The beauty additionally talked about working alongside Coolidge, who scored a SAG nomination for her performance in the HBO anthology series, which was renewed for a third season.

So chic! Her locks were parted in the middle, and swept up into a chic bun to prevent any loose strands from falling onto her face

The theme: The Five Feet Apart actress carried a matching pearl-embellished handbag in her hand to coincide with her red carpet look for the big night

Fun role: During a recent interview with Variety, Haley opened up about playing Portia in the series, who was Tanya's (portrayed by Jennifer Coolidge) assistant

She explained that the best part of working with Jennifer was simply, 'Just working with her in general, observing her.'

'Because my character reacts to her more often than not, like, its very rare that Portia is leading a conversation or a scene. Its Jennifer doing all the s**t, and Portia just going along for the miserable ride.'

'And it was just so fun and inspiring to watch her have so much freedom and genuinely play. Thats something I want more of in my career and creative experiences, the ability to just play and she does that really well.'

The White Lotus has already received two Golden Globe awards for Best Limited or Anthology Series as well as Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer earlier this year.

The 29th SAG Awards were held at the Fairmont Century Plaza located in Los Angeles, and also broadcasted live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Unlike other award ceremonies, such as the NAACP Image Awards and the Oscars, the Screen Actors Guild Awards has not had a host for three years now, with the last hosts being Dan and Eugene Levy in 2020.

'Picked apart': Although Portia was 'really getting picked apart,' the actress admitted that she had fun reading, 'about it and kind of be part of the whole conversation and know that this person that I was part of bringing to life, sparked so many opinions'; seen earlier this month in Milan

A blast to work with: Haley explained that the best part of working with Jennifer was simply, 'Just working with her in general, observing her'; Coolidge seen earlier this month in LA

Critical acclaim: The White Lotus has already received two Golden Globe awards for Best Limited or Anthology Series as well as Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer earlier this year, and has received two SAG nominations
Sheryl Lee Ralph dazzled as she walked the red carpet of the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles at Fairmont Century Plaza Sunday evening.

The actress, 66, donned a Champagne metallic drape sleeve sheath gown with open toe sandal heels during entrances at the luxe event more than a month after she was lauded on social media after an invigorating speech at the Critics' Choice Awards.

The Waterbury, Connecticut native wore her black locks back in a ponytail and accessorized with dangling circular diamond earrings at the cinematic event.

Ralph, who plays the role of Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary, is among the nominees for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.

She is nominated with castmates Quinta Brunson, William Stanford Davis, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, Lisa Ann Walter and Tyler James Williams.

Inside the event, the Emmy-winning actress - whose skin was given a stunning glow ahead of the event courtesy of a facial by Sarah Akram - was seen with Zendaya, Viola Davis, Sam Elliott and Rochelle Rose, as well as her Abbott Elementary colleagues Davis and Williams.

At last month's Critics' Choice Awards, Ralph won the honors for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, paying homage to late Hollywood icon Sidney Poitier for helping instill her with perseverance early on in her Tinseltown career.

'Every mistake, every back break, every "No," every rejection in an industry that when I was 19 years old was quick to tell me there was no place for me, Sidney Poitier looked at me and said, "You're a damn good actress,"' she said.

The latest: Sheryl Lee Ralph, 66, dazzled as she walked the red carpet of the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles at Fairmont Century Plaza Sunday evening

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Glamorous: The actress - who donned a Champagne metallic drape sleeve sheath gown with open toe sandals - achieved her red carpet glow courtesy of a facial from Sarah Akram

Beaming: The Waterbury, Connecticut native wore her black locks back in a ponytail and accessorized with dangling circular diamond earrings at the cinematic event

Honored: Ralph, who plays the role of Barbara Howard on Abbott Elementary, is among the nominees for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series

Feted: At last month's Critics' Choice Awards, Ralph won the honors for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, paying homage to late Hollywood icon Sidney Poitier for helping instill her with perseverance early on in her Tinseltown career

Fun time: The actress was seen smiling at the luxe event in the City of Angels

Starry night: Ralph was seen posing with Zendaya inside the star-studded venue

Glowing: The Emmy-winning actress was pictured with Viola Davis at the event

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category, while Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

Nominees: Ozark (pictured) and Better Call Saul were among the major TV nominees. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in lead drama categories

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.

Quinta Brunson, who won a Golden Globe for Abbott Elementary, was nominated for the series along with the rest of the cast in the ensemble category.

Barry scored ensemble and individual nominations for stars Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan.

Finale: Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Christina Applegate and Rachel Brosnahan rounded out the female nominees for Dead To Me and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, respectively.

Television movies and limited series actors were also honored, though only with individual nominations.

Taron Egerton and Golden Globe winner Paul Walter Hauser scored nods for Blackbird, while Evan Peters and Niecy Nash were both nominated for the chilling thriller Dahmer.

Limited series: Jessica Chastain was nominated for the limited series and TV movie category for George And Tammy (pictured), while Amanda Seyfried was nominated for The Dropout and Steve Carrell was nominated for The Patient

Sam Elliott's work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883 was also recognized, as were Emily Blunt for The English and Amanda Seyfried for The Dropout.

Rounding out the A-lister nominations in the categories were Oscar winner Jessica Chastain for George And Tammy and Steve Carrell for the thriller The Patient.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

The 76-year-old actress who exclaimed, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' when she won her second Oscar for Best Actress in 1984's Places in the Heart, is no stranger to Hollywood honors. Field has won Best Actress twice as she also scored for 1984's Places In The Heart.

Hollywood royalty: The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field, 76, with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits (Pictured January 5 in Palm Springs)

You Like Me: During her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 1985 Oscars ceremonies, Sally endeared the audience when she told them, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 1985)

The talented actress has also won the SAG Award in the Outstanding Actress in a Drama series category for Brothers & Sisters. She has been nominated a total of 8 times.

Field has also received three Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, a Cannes Film Festival Award, and nominations for a Tony Award and two British Academy Film Awards.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
The White Lotus stars Meghann Fahy, Theo James, and Leo Woodall showed off their style credentials while attending the 29th Annual SAG Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Meghann, 32, dazzled in a clingy white one-shoulder gown, which featured a saucy cut-out on the side.

The blonde beauty wore her tresses parted in the middle and cascading down her shoulders in very delicate waves that were coiffed for the evening by A-list hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg using products from John Frieda Hair Care.

Meanwhile Theo, 38, looked handsome as ever in a black suit and a black checkered tie for the event. Woodall, 26 - who was recently romantically linked to Meghann - sported a more laid-back look, in a striped suit and a white T-shirt.

The duo are famed for their portrayal of dysfunctional couple Daphne and Cameron in season two of the hit HBO show. The White Lotus is nominated for two SAG awards: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series, and Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series (Jennifer Coolidge).

Stylish duo: The White Lotus stars Theo James and Meghann Fahy showed off their style credentials while attending the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Sunday

White Lotus stars: Meghann, 32, and Theo, 38, also posed with co-star Leo Woodall, 26, who sported a striped suit and a white t-shirt

Meghann let her magnificent dress do most of the talking, and accessorized lightly, wearing a pair of silver earrings and one silver ring.

As for glam, the beauty went with a delicate palette, featuring bronze eyeshadow and a nude lip. Her blonde locks framed her face perfectly - having been styled in big bouncy waves by Rozenberg, who revealed that he achieved the glossy finish by applying the John Frieda Frizz Ease Original Serum throughout her hair and then topping the whole thing off with the brand's Frizz Ease Moisture Barrier Hairspray.

Meanwhile the impressive volume was created courtesy of the John Frieda Volume Lift Air Whipped Foam and the Olivia Garden Super HP Hair Dryer, which was used to create that bouncy style.

Theo accessorized his look with a white pocket square and a fancy silver watch.

Meghann has been romantically linked to Leo, who plays plays criminal Jack.

Fans have been believing that Meghann and Leo might be dating after online sleuths dug into their Instagram comments and uncovered some flirtatious exchanges.

Speculation first ran rampant when a tipster for gossip site DeuxMoi alleged that the co-stars were an item, leading fans to comb through their Instagram accounts and hunt for clues.

That's when back-and-forth comments between Fahy and Woodall came to light, igniting rumors that a romance has blossomed between the hard-partying stars of the HBO hit.

The SAG Awards will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel. The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

Dazzling: Meghann dazzled in a clingy white one-shoulder gown, which featured a saucy cut-out on the side

Light accessories: Meghann let her magnificent dress do most of the talking, and accessorized lightly, wearing a pair of silver earrings and one silver ring

Onscreen pair: The duo are famed for their portrayal of dysfunctional couple Daphne and Cameron in season two of the hit HBO show

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Handsome: Theo looked handsome as ever in a black suit and a black checkered tie for the event

Fancy: He accessorized with a white pocket square and a fancy silver watch

Smart look: Theo also wore a pair of smart black-rimmed eyeglasses

Scruff: The handsome star sported a smattering of facial hair to the ceremony

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.

Nominated: The White Lotus is nominated for two SAG awards: Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series, and Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series (Jennifer Coolidge)
Shoppers at Shinsegae Duty Free mall at Terminal 1 of Incheon International Airport get ready to board their flights in December 2022. Newsis



By Ko Dong-hwan



A bidding war is intensifying to win the rights to operate duty-free shops at Incheon International Airport, putting domestic companies on high alert.



Causing the alarm is China Duty Free Group (CDFG), a state-run enterprise that accounts for the biggest slice of the global duty-free shopping market, which joined the competition last month. Also in the race is Switzerland's Dufry, targeting small-to-medium-size shops.



The first round of the bidding competition is scheduled in March. CDFG is expected to bid for one of the five tickets for the category of general business, which only entitles mega-size firms to vie for operating rights  like Korea's Lotte, Shilla and Shinsegae. Dufry is expected to lock horns with the Dongwha and Entas for two tickets to run smaller shops.



The biggest concern for Korean firms in the race is how badly their market shares could be affected if CDFG enters the airport duty-free business, offering perks to Chinese consumers.



Korean duty-free shop operators have been relying on traders from China, who purchase bulk volumes of merchandise and resell them to Chinese consumers. Their purchases account for almost 90 percent of the operators' entire sales on average. Thanks to the Chinese traders, duty-free shops in Korea last January achieved almost 600 billion won ($456 million) in sales, according to the Korea Duty Free Shops Association.



Korean duty-free shop operators lowered commission fees by more than 10 percent last month, which led to lost sales as Chinese traders left in droves. As a result, Korean duty-free shops saw sales decline by half in January compared to the previous month.



The commission fee rate, which had been below 20 percent before the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, kept increasing as tourist traffic ground to a halt around the world. Industry watchers in Korea said the declining sales would persist for a while until inbound travelers to Korea from China recover to pre-pandemic levels.



Korean duty-free shop operators fear that if CDFG gains a foothold inside Incheon airport and expands in Seoul, the local duty free market end up being dominated by the Chinese state-run firm.



A Korea Customs Service regulation stipulates that a new duty free mall can open in a local municipality that saw an increase of at least 300,000 visitors from overseas. That means if Korea's eased travel restrictions end up attracting more Chinese visitors to Korean cities, new duty free malls opening in cities here could end up being monopolized by a Chinese operator like CDFG.



Dufry poses a similar threat at airports where more small-to-medium duty-free shops are concentrated.



The winner of the bidding war will be decided in April.


Claire Foy looked sensational as she walked the red carpet at the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday night.

The Crown actress, 38, went braless, donning a plunging floor length yellow number for the event.

Her frock accentuated her hourglass figure and toned arms as she prepared for a fun evening out in California.

Claire toted her essentials in a glitzy clutch bag and sported a silver necklace.

She swept her raven locks into a chic low bun and opted for a slick of classic red lipstick for the star-studded awards show.

Stunning starlet: Claire Foy looked sensational in a plunging yellow dress as she walked the red carpet of the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday night

Fabulous frock: Her frock accentuated her hourglass figure and toned arms as she prepared for a fun evening out

She was all smiles as she posed for a series of gorgeous pictures at the glitzy show.

It comes after Claire revealed earlier this month that she found the fact Matt Smith was paid more than her on The Crown 'really heartbreaking'.

The actress, 38, played the lead role of Elizabeth II in the first two seasons of the Netflix show while Matt, 40, starred as her husband Prince Philip.

An executive from Left Bank Pictures, the production company that makes The Crown, previously revealed Claire was paid less than Matt for her work on the show.

Speaking to The Guardian, the star insisted she was unaware Matt made more than her until the executive made the news public.

She said: 'I wasn't shocked. I was upset. Not like, boohoo, crying upset. I was very upset. I don't think I allowed myself to [express anger]'.

'Sometimes, you see something, you hear something, you notice something, or something happens to you, and you just go, "Oh God, what am I doing? Why am I doing it? Should I be part of this?" I found it really heartbreaking.'

Claire said she found it 'odd' to be at the centre of the story when it first emerged and didn't want to be made into a spokesperson for the gender pay gap issue.

Glamorous girl: She swept her raven locks into a chic low bun and opted for a slick of classic red lipstick for the star-studded awards show

The Women Talking star added that she still went back on the show for another season after the salary gap became known.

She explained: 'We're still talking about this, however many years down the line. I know the extent of it. I still went back on the show. If anything, I just didn't want my experience of the show and what we all did on it to be overshadowed.'

Claire said the pay gap row has had a positive impact overall as people can no longer lie about what actors are being paid.

Left Bank Pictures apologised to Claire and Matt at the time and claimed sole responsibility in the difference between their salaries.

Claire joked her agent probably enjoyed going back to the company later to discuss what she would be paid for the second season.

Elsewhere in the interview, Claire discussed having a breakdown in the early days of her acting career as she struggled to deal with the instability of the industry.

She moved from Stockport, Greater Manchester to London and quickly found acting jobs but said she was hardly eating or sleeping at the time as she wanted to work so hard.

Claire previously told PorterEdit that she was 'deeply hurt' by the pay gap between her and co-star Matt.

Pretty: Claire also sported light eyeshadow and blush for the event in California alongside a host of other stars

She explained: 'I was deeply hurt by [the pay gap], because I'd been working on that show for two years. I loved everybody on it.

'And then I realised, there's been a big, fat, dirty secret that nobody's ever talked about. Then there was also that thing [of being] an inadvertent spokesperson. Why did it have to be me?'

She added: 'You feel lucky to have a job. It's so competitive. So, in that way, they rely on competitiveness and actors' vulnerability to say, "They'll accept it for 10 grand less."'

'I could have said nothing. And I think everyone would have preferred that. But I thought, if I do that, I will be cheating myself and all the other women I know.'
Aubrey Plaza turned up the heat on the red carpet at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The Emily the Criminal star, 38, had all eyes on her in a daring gold gown that featured a large front cutout showing off her toned midriff.

The White Lotus actress' sensational Michael Kors gown featured a criss-cross halter neckline, as well as a sultry thigh-high slit.

Aubrey added extra height to the look with strappy gold heels that showed off her black pedicure.

While on the red carpet she mingled with Parks and Recreation star Amy Poehler, 51, who, like Plaza, will be among one of the presenters at the ceremony.

Wow! Aubrey Plaza turned up the heat on the red carpet at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Aubrey wore her shoulder-length brunette tresses in bouncy curls for the event, for which she worked with celebrity hairstylist Mark Townsend, who used products from Sol de Janeiro and tools from GHD to create the look.

'As soon as I saw Aubreys gorgeous sequin Michael Kors gown, my mind exploded with inspiration and hairdo ideas!' Mark said of the look.

'While chatting with her, we both wanted to lean into a 70s vibe with lots of movement and shine in the hair.'

To create that movement, Mark prepped Aubrey's hair with the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Joia Milky Leave-In Conditioner, curled it with the GHD Helios Professional Hair Dryer, the brand's Natural Round Bristle Brush, and the Curve Classic Curl Iron.

He then finished the look off with the brand's Brazilian Glossy Nourishing Hair Oil 'to add loads of shine and keep the hair frizz free all night'.

Meanwhile, Aubrey's makeup look for the evening was created by celebrity beauty pro Kathy Jeung, who used skincare and makeup from Charlotte Tilbury to prep the starlet for the red carpet. She also got a pre-red carpet glow courtesy of a facial from Sarah Akram.

'Aubreys stunning metallic sequin gown felt like a modern take on a 1930s screen siren and it immediately made me want to do a bronzed goddess makeup look,' Kathy explained.

The makeup artist opted for 'a sexy, smokey kohl rimmed, bronzed eye' which she achieved with shades from the Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon, the Hollywood Exagger-Eyes Liner Duo, and the Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara.

Her 'radiant, glowing skin' was given an oomph with the newly-launched Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand and the Hollywood Glow Glide Face Architect Highlighter.

Last but not least, her pout was plumped to perfection with the Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk, as well as a slick of the K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Runway Royalty.

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

All eyes on Aubrey: The Emily the Criminal star, 38, had all eyes on her in a daring gold gown that featured a large front cutout showing off her toned midriff

Bouncy curls: Aubrey wore her shoulder-length brunette tresses in bouncy curls for the event - and she prepared her complexion for the red carpet with a facial from Sarah Akram

Presenters: While on the red carpet she mingled with Parks and Recreation star Amy Poehler, 51, who, like Plaza, will be among one of the presenters at the ceremony

Chic ladies: Poehler looked chic in a sleeveless black gown, which she teamed with a black clutch

Sweet: The dynamis pair posed up a storm on the red carpet

The beauty further sparkled up the look with a number of accessories.

Meanwhile Poehler looked chic in a sleeveless black gown, which she teamed with a black clutch.

The star wore her blonde tresses in a bob and had a touch of pink blush adorning the apples of her cheeks.

The ladies were also seen posing with Australian star Cate Blanchett, 53, who looked incredible in a form-fitting gown with lace details.

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Incredible: The ladies were also seen posing with Australian star Cate Blanchett, 53, who looked incredible in a form-fitting gown with lace details

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

Aside from Aubrey and Amy, there will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Jenna Ortega, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
Eddie Redmayne joined pal Andrew Garfield on the star-studded red carpet at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The actor, 41, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Good Nurse, commanded attention in quirky white shirt with huge sculpted collar.

The Oscar winner completed the look with smart black trousers and wore his brunette locks in matte spikes.

Meanwhile Andrew, 39, opted for a more traditional double-breasted tuxedo which he layered over a crisp white shirt.

The Spiderman star added a little rock and roll to the look opting to go without a tie and sported bushy beard.

Pals: Eddie Redmayne (right) joined pal Andrew Garfield (left) on the star-studded red carpet at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Style: The actor, 41, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Good Nurse, commanded attention in quirky white shirt with huge sculpted collar

Effortless: The Oscar winner completed the look with smart black trousers and wore his brunette locks in matte spikes

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Cheese! Eddie posed up a storm before heading into the ceremony

Fun times: The duo appeared to be having a wonderful time as they posed for cameras

Smart: Meanwhile Andrew (left) opted for a more traditional double-breasted tuxedo which he layered over a crisp white shirt

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Star turn: Eddie is nominated for his role in The Good Nurse (pictured with co-star Jessica Chastain)

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
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Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories in a record-breaking showing at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday night as Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ke Huy Quan were all recognized with Brendan Fraser enjoying his comeback moment with a tearful speech as he earned a top honor.

The American absurdist comedy-drama film also earned the top award of the night Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the star-studded event which took place place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California.

As the film earned four wins it has broken the SAG Awards record for most wins ever as just four films have won three since the awards began in 1995.

Everything Everywhere All At Once beat out star-studded casts including: Babylon, The Banshees Of Inisherin, The Fabelmans, and Women Talking.

Yeoh, Curtis, and Quan all gave brief speeches before allowing 'patriarch and friend' James Hong to take the mic for most of the final acceptance speech.

How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday night as Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ke Huy Quan were all recognized

Epic: Brendan Fraser enjoyed his comeback moment with a tearful speech as he earned top honor

The 94-year-old acting legend said: 'I got my first SAG card 70 years ago. My first movie was with Clark Gable but back in those days I have to tell you the leading role was played by guys with their eyes taped up and they talked like this because the producer said Asians are not good enough and they are not box office, but look at us now, huh?

'We're not all Chinese but Jamie Lee is a good Chinese name... I feel very akin to her and I've never had such a good time as I did with these jerks on the movie.'

The film is centered around a middle-aged Chinese immigrant named Evelyn Wang (played by Yeoh) who is swept up into an insane adventure in which she alone can save existence by exploring other universes and connecting with the lives she could have led.

Yeoh, 60, became the first ever Asian actress to earn Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role as she triumphed over: Cate Blanchett -Tar, Viola Davis - The Woman King, Ana de Armas - Blonde, and Danielle Deadwyler - Till.

She cursed multiple times during her speech which began: 'SAG-AFTRA, to get this from you, who understands what it is to get here, everyone of you know the journey, the roller-coaster ride, the ups sand downs.

'But important, we never give up. I thank you for your love, for your support because I know I'm up against titans, rightly so.'

She was definitely caught up in the moment as she let out two profanities while soaking in the big win.

Yeoh finished the speech by saying: 'Thank you, thank you, thank you. This is not just for me. This is for every little girl that looks like me. Sally Field, you said all the right things.

Golden: The film beat out star-studded casts including: Babylon, The Banshees Of Inisherin, The Fabelmans, and Women Talking

Sweet: Yeoh, Curtis, and Quan all gave brief speeches before allowing 'patriarch and friend' James Hong (pictured left with Yeoh) to take the mic for most of the final acceptance speech

The 94-year-old acting legend said: 'I got my first SAG card 70 years ago. My first movie was with Clark Gable but back in those days I have to tell you the leading role was played by guys with their eyes taped up and they talked like this because the producer said Asians are not good enough and they are not box office, but look at us now, huh?'

Sweet: Curtis gave Hong a kiss on the side of the head

The film is centered around a middle-aged Chinese immigrant named Evelyn Wang (played by Yeoh; center) who is swept up into an insane adventure in which she alone can save existence by exploring other universes and connecting with the lives she could have led

Trailblazing: Yeoh, 60, became the first ever Asian actress to earn Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role as she triumphed over: Cate Blanchett -Tar, Viola Davis - The Woman King, Ana de Armas - Blonde, and Danielle Deadwyler - Till

She cursed multiple times during her speech which began: 'SAG-AFTRA, to get this from you, who understands what it is to get here, everyone of you know the journey, the roller-coaster ride, the ups sand downs'

Lead: Yeoh's (pictured right) character Evelyn is a dissatisfied and overwhelmed laundromat owner; and as several other versions of Evelyn in alternate universes

'We're here because we love what we do and we'll never stop doing this because we really, really love it. But thank you for giving me a seat at the table because so many of us need this. Tonight you have shown us that it is possible. And my mom will be eternally grateful to you.'

Yeoh's character Evelyn is a dissatisfied and overwhelmed laundromat owner; and as several other versions of Evelyn in alternate universes.

Earlier in the night Jamie Lee Curtis, 64, planted a big smooch on Yeoh shortly after her name was announced as the winner of Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role.

Curtis won over an impressive field including: Angela Bassett - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Hong Chau - The Whale, Kerry Condon - The Banshees of Inisherin, and Stephanie Hsu - Everything Everywhere All At Once.

In the film Curtis portrays Deirdre Beaubeirdre, an IRS inspector in addition to several other versions of Deirdre in alternate universes.

During her touching acceptance speech, the daughter of actors Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh owned her 'nepo baby' title.

She said: 'I know you look at me and think "Nepo baby," and I totally get it! But I'm 64 years old and this is just amazing.'

Meanwhile castmate Ke Huy Quan earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for the same American absurdist comedy-drama film.

Bond: Jamie Lee Curtis was elated and kissed co-star Michelle Yeoh on the lips as she won at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards

What a moment: The 64-year-old actress planted a big smooch on her 60-year-old Everything Everywhere All At Once co-star shortly after her name was announced as the winner

The 64-year-old actress was announced as the winner of Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role for Everything Everywhere All At Once

Epic: In the film Curtis portrays Deirdre Beaubeirdre, an IRS inspector in addition to several other versions of Deirdre in alternate universes

Comeback kid: Meanwhile castmate Ke Huy Quan earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for the same American absurdist comedy-drama film

Pioneering: The 51-year-old actor got emotional as he revealed that he was the first Asian male actor to ever win the award

He said: 'This moment no longer belongs to just me, it also belongs to everyone who has asked for change. When I stepped away from acting it was because there were so few opportunities'

Double duty: He proudly showed off his two new trophies

Comeback kid: Quan played Waymond Wang, Evelyn's meek and goofy husband whose existentialism is the antidote to Jobu's nihilism; and as Alpha-Waymond, from the Alphaverse; and other versions of Waymond in alternate universes

The 51-year-old actor got emotional as he revealed that he was the first Asian male actor to ever win the award.

He said: 'This moment no longer belongs to just me, it also belongs to everyone who has asked for change. When I stepped away from acting it was because there were so few opportunities.

'The landscape looks so different now than before. So thank you so much to everyone in this room who contributed to these changes.'

Quan played Waymond Wang, Evelyn's meek and goofy husband whose existentialism is the antidote to Jobu's nihilism; and as Alpha-Waymond, from the Alphaverse; and other versions of Waymond in alternate universes.

Though Everything Everywhere All At Once earned four of the main five film awards, Brendan Fraser continued his comeback tour in emotional fashion as he earned top honor Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for The Whale.

The 54-year-old acting veteran got tearful during his acceptance speech as he said: 'I treasure this, but never more than when I treasured what I used to keep in my wallet, which was my SAG card that I earned in 1991. It made me feel like I belonged.

'As actors, we all want to belong to a tribe and thats when I found where I belong. And if you told that guy back then that Id be standing right here right now, I would not have believed you.'

Fraser triumphed over Austin Butler - Elvis, Colin Farrell - The Banshees Of Inisherin, Bill Nighy - Living, and Adam Sandler - Hustle.

In The Whale, Brendan portrays Charlie a reclusive, morbidly obese English teacher attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter.

Leading man: Though Everything Everywhere All At Once earned four of the main five film awards, Brendan Fraser continued his comeback tour in emotional fashion as he earned top honor Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for The Whale

The 54-year-old acting veteran got tearful during his acceptance speech as he said: 'I treasure this, but never more than when I treasured what I used to keep in my wallet, which was my SAG card that I earned in 1991. It made me feel like I belonged'

Aww: His partner Jeanne Moore joined him in the press room

Transformative: In The Whale, Brendan portrays Charlie a reclusive, morbidly obese English teacher attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter

The White Lotus was the biggest winner on the television side as the HBO series earned Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series in addition to a Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series win for Jennifer Coolidge.

The 61-year-old acting veteran got emotional while recalling a childhood anecdote during her acceptance speech at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild awards.

The White Lotus star, 61, won for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Tanya on season 2 of the hit HBO series.

As she accepted the honor the actress first thanked the show's creator, Mike White, before getting emotional while talking about her 'amazing parents' and how they inspired her to act.

Squad goals: The White Lotus was the biggest winner on the television side as the HBO series earned Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series in addition to a Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series win for Jennifer Coolidge

Leading lady: The 61-year-old acting veteran got emotional while recalling a childhood anecdote during her acceptance speech at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild awards

Tribute: As she accepted the honor the actress first thanked the show's creator, Mike White, before getting emotional while talking about her 'amazing parents' and how they inspired her to act

Leading lady: Coolidge portrayed Tanya McQuoid, a troubled woman whose mother recently died and who seeks inner peace and discovery in the HBO series

Double duty: She proudly showed off her shiny new trophies

'I had these amazing parents. And they had this incredible gift. It was impossible for them to lie. They just couldn't do it. Never, they just never lied.' the blonde bombshell explained.

Coolidge won over Elizabeth Debicki - The Crown, Julia Garner - Ozark, Laura Linney - Ozark, and Zendaya - Euphoria.

Coolidge portrayed Tanya McQuoid, a troubled woman whose mother recently died and who seeks inner peace and discovery in the HBO series.

The HBO series won the ensemble award over Better Call Saul, The Crown, Ozark, and Severance.

Jessica Chastain earned the very first win at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday night

Chastain shared a touching story as she recalled attending an acting class with the late Philip Seymour Hoffman which he ended very inspirationally by saying: 'I look forward to working with each of you'

What a moment: Chastain was shocked by the win

She explained during her acceptance speech: 'It was like he brought it into being and a few years later, I had the opportunity to do a play with him. And Im telling the story now, because it reminds me of how powerful our mind is, and that we are what our thoughts create '

What a gent: Oscar-nominee Paul Mescal held Chastain's hand and led her to the microphone

Dynamic duo: The Molly's Game actress was recognized for Showtime's miniseries about George Jones and Tammy Wynette, alongside Michael Shannon, which aired its finale episode in December

Jessica Chastain took home Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her role in George & Tammy.

The 45-year-old Oscar-winner beat an impressive field which included: Emily Blunt - The English, Julia Garner - Inventing Anna, Niecy Nash-Betts Dahmer - Monster, and Amanda Seyfried - The Dropout.

Chastain shared a touching story as she recalled attending an acting class with the late Philip Seymour Hoffman which he ended very inspirationally by saying: 'I look forward to working with each of you.'

She explained during her acceptance speech: 'It was like he brought it into being and a few years later, I had the opportunity to do a play with him. And Im telling the story now, because it reminds me of how powerful our mind is, and that we are what our thoughts create. '

The Molly's Game actress was recognized for Showtime's miniseries about George Jones and Tammy Wynette, which aired its finale episode in December.

The show reunited her and Michael Shannon, who she starred with in the 2011 psychological thriller Take Shelter.

The show follows Tammy and George as they thunder through drugs, fights and even - in her case - shock therapy.

The duo had a dramatic and explosive marriage from 1969 to 1975, scarred by problems including his galloping alcoholism.

Icon: Sam Elliott came next as he earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for 1883

Earned it: The 78-year-old acting veteran beat out: Steve Carell - The Patient, Taron Egerton - Black Bird, Paul Walter Hauser - Black Bird, and Evan Peters - Dahmer - Monster

Tough man: In the Yellowstone prequel series Elliott potrays hea Brennan, an employee of the Pinkerton Agency leading the expedition. Brennan is a former captain who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War

'I just want to tell everyone who might be struggling at home, to all the actors that I get to meet: Keep going. Youre one job away. I look forward to working with you. Ill see you on set.'

The biographical film she starred in was an intimate look at the extraordinary rise, fall and redemption of televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker as she played the titular role.

Sam Elliott came next as he earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for 1883.

The 78-year-old acting veteran beat out: Steve Carell - The Patient, Taron Egerton - Black Bird, Paul Walter Hauser - Black Bird, and Evan Peters - Dahmer - Monster.

Big win: Abbott Elementary won the coveted Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series gong with star and series creator Quinta Brunson accepting the honor

High honor: Jason Bateman earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series for his work in Ozark

Yes, chef! Jeremy Allen White took home Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series for his work in The Bear

Elliott joked that he would be the only one who wrote his speech as he said he did not expect to win.

He explained: 'What can I say in 45 seconds after just receiving the most meaningful acknowledgment of my 55-year career?

'From a group of my peers, many of whom I dont even know or know only from afar, as a fan who respects their work, I can say thank you and that Im honored and grateful to be in your company.'

In the Yellowstone prequel series Elliott portrays Shea Brennan, an employee of the Pinkerton Agency leading the expedition. Brennan is a former captain who served in the Union Army during the American Civil War.

Actress Sally Field was honored with this year's SAG Life Achievement Award, which is presented for 'outstanding achievement in fostering the finest ideals of the acting profession.'

Showing chivalry is not dead, the star of the Elvis biopic Austin Butler escorted Field to the stage, and then her The Amazing Spider-Man co-star Andrew Garfield greeted her with big hug after presenting the special award.

Special honor: Sally Field, 76, was honored with the SAG Life Achievement Award at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Sunday

Heartfelt: Field's The Amazing Spider-Man co-star Andrew Garfield greeted her with big hug after presenting the special award during the ceremony

Emotional: The two performers were genuinely emotional on the stage before her speech

Her start: The two-time Oscar-winning actress talked about her six-decades as a working actress that began with her role in the sitcom Gidget (1965-1966)

Congratulations: Jennifer Coolidge and Jessica Chastain posed for snaps with their gongs after winning for The White Lotus and George & Tammy respectively

Here's looking at you: Jeremy Allen White gazed at his award after winning for The Bear

Distinguished: Sam Elliott looked dapper after winning best male actor in a television movie or limited series for his work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883 while Brendan Fraser looked in good spirits after scooping the award for The Whale

Congrats: After The White Lotus' success Aubrey Plaza, Bruno Gouery, Michael Imperioli, F. Murray Abraham, Will Sharpe, Beatrice Granno, Adam DiMarco, Haley Lu Richardson, Simona Tabasco, Paolo Camilli, Jennifer Coolidge, Jon Gries, Federico Ferrante, Eleonora Romandini, Francesco Zecca, Theo James, Leo Woodall, Meghann Fahy andSabrina Impacciatore posed for snaps

Winners: Harry Shum Jr., Jenny Slate, Andy Le, Tallie Medel, Ke Huy Quan, James Hong, Stephanie Hsu, Jamie Lee Curtis, Michelle Yeoh and Brian Le posed together

After having made her film debut as an extra in the science fiction comedy Moon Pilot (1962), Field got her breakout role in television, playing Frances Elizabeth 'Gidget' Lawrence on the sitcom Gidget (1965-1966), which she mentioned during her heartwarming speech.

During her time on stage she confessed acting has never been about attention seeking, 'although it is nice - sometimes,' she added, with hesitancy.

'It has never been about a need to hide myself behind characters of other people,' the two time-Oscar-winner explained. 'Acting to me has always been about finding those few precious moments when I feel totally, utterly, sometimes dangerously alive. So the task has always been to find a way to get to that. To get to the work. To claw myself to it, if necessary.

The longtime leading lady also talked about her desire to 'climb my way out of the box of situation comedy in the 1960s and 70s.'

The Pasadena, California native then recalled the wide range of characters she's played over he more than six-decade career, which included a reference to another breakout role in the television movie Sybil (1976), a woman with multiple personalities.

At one point, she joked about doing scenes in the nude with her Kiss Me Goodbye co-star Jeff Bridges

'I've been fully clothed, semi-clothed and totally naked. Huh Jeff don't you know,' she said with a big smile of her face, which got a big laugh from Bridges, who was sitting in the audience with his wife of over 45 years, Susan Geston.

Movie stars! The biggest stars in Hollywood put on their most glamorous gowns for the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards, which took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, California on Sunday

Dazzling: Zendaya kicked off the red carpet in style, arriving in a strapless pink gown featuring three-dimensional flowers embellished on the skirt. She is wearing custom Valentino with a Bulgari necklace

Gorgeous: Zendaya's cotton candy colored number was paired with a statement diamond necklace that included emerald, ruby and Amethyst gemstones by Bulgari

Bright: Jessica Chastain stood out in a hot pink gown that had ruching along the torso; the red haired beauty paired the number with sleek hair and red lipstick. She is wearing Zuhair Murad

Beauty: Angela Bassett looked incredible in a bright lemon colored gown featuring a voluminous tulle neckline as well as a matching hemline; She is wearing Giambattista Valli Couture

Gorgeous! Aubrey showcased her toned abs in a chocolate hued gown; it featured a cut-out detail that highlighted her abs

Radiant: Jamie Lee Curtis stunned in a plunging red gown as she led the stars at the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in LA. She is wearing Romona Keveza

A look! Stephanie Hsu, Olivia Williams and Olivia Hamilton donned red hued numbers for the awards ceremony

Strike a pose: Sabrina Impacciatore chose a fuschia hued gown with dramatic caped sleeves. She is wearing Valentino

The event began with a hilarious backstage sketch featuring Steve Martin and Martin Short backstage.

They get in a bit of a verbal tiff as they are both nominated in the Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series against one another as Selena Gomez later popped in to serve as peacemaker.

Later on Niecy Nash, Bob Odenkirk, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Abbott Elementary stars Janelle James and Quinta Brunson did the iconic 'I am an actor' monologues which are featured at the beginning of every show.

Janelle and Quinta later hit the stage to make a few jokes and kick off a highlight reel featuring the biggest moments in film and television.

Electric! Niecy Nash-Betts, Viola Davis and Michelle Yeoh all chose brightly hued looks

Looking good! Claire Foy opted for a lime green plunging gown while Amanda Seyfried opted for a short green gown with a long train, adding a black handbag and heels

Velvet number: Elizabeth Debicki slipped on a forest green sleeveless gown in the unique fabric with sleek tresses

Blue love: D'Arcy Carden donned a ceylon blue gown with matching sheer lace gloves while Simona Tabsco donned a teal and black number as she sposed alongside Beatrice Granno in all black

Lovely in lavender: Kathryn Newton chose a light purple and black gown by Carolina Herrera

Standout: Rooney Mara opted for a black and white lace and fringed number; she is wearing Alexander McQueen

Edgy: Wednesday star Jenna Ortega looked incredible in a patent black gown with an asymmetrical hemline. She is waring vintage Gianni Versace from the fall/winter 1994 collection

Lovely: Jennifer Coolidge chose a sleek black frock with voluminous tresses; Michelle Williams looked like the picture of grace in a black gown featuring a velvet bow detail at her neckline while Amy Poehler stunned in a strapless gown

Breathtaking! Cara Delevingne oozed glamour in her black gown and crimson lipstick. She is wearing Carolina Herrera

What a dress! Julia Butters chose a dramatic Carolina Herrera gown with a voluminous pleated skirt

Courage: Christina Applegate arrived with her daughter Sadie, 12

Sultry: Cate Blanchett, Lisa Ann Walker and Sally Field rocked lacy black numbers

Striking: Jenny Slate, Ana de Armas, Haley Lu Richardson and Kerry Condon chose gowns with statement making accents

Glamorous: Jessie Buckley donned a shiny gold number; Britt Lower chose a gold and taupe hued frock while Sheryl Lee Ralph wowed in a shimmering gold gown with caped mesh sleeves

Chic: Quinta Brunson and Ashley Park chose striking gown with statement detailing

Mermaid vibes: Danielle Deadwyler dazzled in a white and orange gown featured a layered skirt; she is wearing Louis Vuitton with Bulgari jewelry

Chic: Jessica Frances Dukes wore a cut-out cream colored gown with a feathered accent along her neck; Meghann Fahey chose a white cut-out one shouldered number

Mint: Patricia Arquette wore a pale green frock with a sheer accent along her decolletage

Good looking couple: Emily Blune seen with her husband John Krasinski, who looked dapper in a pinstripe suit

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and was broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Earlier in the evening Zendaya , 26, kicked off the red carpet in style, arriving in a strapless pink gown featuring three-dimensional flowers embellished on the skirt.

The actress showcased her slim figure in the striking custom Valentino number covered in 190 fabric roses in the same hue.

Jessica Chastain dazzled in a hot pink Zuhair Murad gown, complete with sleek hair and crimson lips, perfectly complimenting her flame-hued tresses.

Angela Bassett slipped on a bold yellow Giambattista Valli gown with tulle accents while Aubrey Plaza showcased her abs in a cut-out chocolate hued Michael Kors number.

Glowing: Fran Drescher, who is the President of SAG-AFTRA, seen with her ex-husband Peter Marc Jacobson; they were childhood sweethearts but split in 1999; he came out as gay after their split and they have remained close friends

Pals! Andrew Garfield and Eddie Redmayne shared a laugh on the red carpet together

Dapper: Elvis star Austin Butler wore a burgundy suit by Gucci, adding an Omega watch

Handsome: Andrew Garfield, Evan Peters and John Krasinski looked dapper in their suits

Suited up! Eddie Redmayne opted for a dramatic look while Jeremy Allen White and Paul Walter Hauser donned blazers

Beaming: Brendan Fraser chose an all black look while Diego Luna donned a suit and bow tie

Good looking table! Zendaya sat next to Austin Butler during the ceremony

Suprise! Amanda looked shocked as she chatted with a fellow guest
Quinta Brunson shimmered in a gorgeous black-and-white scalloped dress on Sunday while attending the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles.

The 33-year-old Abbott Elementary creator and star stunned in a gown by Lebanese designer Jean-Louis Sabaji that featured a large white scallop shell bodice and long black skirt with sparkling embellishments.

Quinta had her black hair tied up in a high bun and accentuated her natural beauty with full eye makeup including smoky eye shadow and red lipstick.

The writer and actress accessorized with dangling earrings and several sparkling rings from Neil Lane jewelry.

Quinta was nominated and also scheduled to present at the awards ceremony held at the Fairmont Century Plaza in the Century City area.

TV star: Quinta Brunson shimmered in a gorgeous black-and-white scalloped dress on Sunday while attending the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles

She was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her work in Abbott Elementary along with Christina Applegate, Dead To Me; Rachel Brosnahan, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Jenna Ortega, Wednesday.

The cast of Abbott Elementary also was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series and won the prestigious award.

Abbott Elementary star Janelle James also was a presenter during the awards ceremony.

The mockumentary sitcom Abbott Elementary stars Quinta as second-grade teacher Janine Teagues at a fictional predominantly black school in Philadelphia.

Quinta also is an executive producer and co-writer of the ABC show that premiered December 2021.

Abbott Elementary has received widespread critical acclaim and has received several awards including Emmy Awards, NAACP Image Awards, Critics' Choice Awards and Golden Globe Awards.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Gorgeous gown: The 33-year-old Abbott Elementary creator and star stunned in a gown by Lebanese designer Jean-Louis Sabaji that featured a large white scallop shell bodice and long black skirt with sparkling embellishments

Dangling earrings: The writer and actress accessorized with dangling earrings and several sparkling rings

Natural beauty: Quinta accentuated her natural beauty with full eye makeup including smoky eye shadow and red lipstick

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.

Barry scored ensemble and individual nominations for stars Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan.

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Critical acclaim: Abbott Elementary was created by and stars Quinta, shown on Saturday at the NAACP Image Awards, and she's also an executive producer and co-writer

Hit show: Quinta and co-star Janelle James are shown in a still from Abbott Elementary
Amanda Seyfried stunned as she led the arrivals on the red carpet of the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday.

The 37-year-old actress wore a green midi dress with a long train that dragged behind her paired with a nude lip. She received a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series.

The Dropout star - praised for portraying Elizabeth Holmes in the Hulu anthology show - donned a pair of open-toed black heels.

Her dress featured an A-lined skirt with spaghetti straps and vertical bows on each shoulder where the train connects to the dress.

On Saturday, at the 34th Annual Producers Guild Awards, The Dropout received the David L. Wolper Award for Outstanding Producer of Limited or Anthology Series Television.

Classic: Amanda Seyfried stunned as she led the arrivals while posing on the red carpet of the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

The Mamma Mia! star pulled her blonde tresses back into a high ponytail that draped down over both sides of her head.

For makeup, the actress and Lancome ambassadress turned to celebrity beauty pro Genevieve Herr, who created a look inspired by the '60s vibe' of Amanda's dress.

'The inspiration was based on the dress and the 60s vibe,' she explained. 'I decided to stay in the 60s theme and do a strong eyeliner paired with a subtle lip to keep it modern. And kept the blush to a minimum to offset the eye.'

The strong eye look in question was created courtesy of the Lancome Idole Liquid Eyeliner in Glossy Black and the brand's Lash Idole Mascara, while Amanda's lips were perfectly accentuated with the Le Lip Liner Pencil in Bronzelle and the LAbsolu Rouge Cream Lipstick in Tendre Mirage.

The Pennsylvania native opted for minimal accessories to let her dress take the center of attention.

She wore a pair of statement dangling earrings with a diamond bracelet.

The debut episode of The Dropout aired on Hulu in March of last year.

Her critically-acclaimed performance as former biotechnology entrepreneur Elizabeth Holmes won her a Golden Globe as well as an Emmy award.

The hit series tells the story of the convicted fraudster who was once billed as Silicon Valley's next Steve Jobs after she founded now-defunct health company Theranos and defrauded investors.

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Chic: The 37-year-old actress wore a green midi dress with a long train that dragged behind her paired with a nude lip. She posed ahead of her nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category, while Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

Nominees: Ozark (pictured) and Better Call Saul were among the major TV nominees. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in lead drama categories

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.

Quinta Brunson, who won a Golden Globe for Abbott Elementary, was nominated for the series along with the rest of the cast in the ensemble category.

Barry scored ensemble and individual nominations for stars Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan.

Finale: Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Christina Applegate and Rachel Brosnahan rounded out the female nominees for Dead To Me and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, respectively.

Television movies and limited series actors were also honored, though only with individual nominations.

Taron Egerton and Golden Globe winner Paul Walter Hauser scored nods for Blackbird, while Evan Peters and Niecy Nash were both nominated for the chilling thriller Dahmer.

Limited series: Jessica Chastain was nominated for the limited series and TV movie category for George And Tammy (pictured), while Amanda Seyfried was nominated for The Dropout and Steve Carrell was nominated for The Patient

Sam Elliott's work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883 was also recognized, as were Emily Blunt for The English and Amanda Seyfried for The Dropout.

Rounding out the A-lister nominations in the categories were Oscar winner Jessica Chastain for George And Tammy and Steve Carrell for the thriller The Patient.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

The 76-year-old actress who exclaimed, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' when she won her second Oscar for Best Actress in 1984's Places in the Heart, is no stranger to Hollywood honors. Field has won Best Actress twice as she also scored for 1984's Places In The Heart.

Hollywood royalty: The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field, 76, with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits (Pictured January 5 in Palm Springs)

You Like Me: During her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 1985 Oscars ceremonies, Sally endeared the audience when she told them, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 1985)

The talented actress has also won the SAG Award in the Outstanding Actress in a Drama series category for Brothers & Sisters. She has been nominated a total of 8 times.

Field has also received three Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, a Cannes Film Festival Award, and nominations for a Tony Award and two British Academy Film Awards.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
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British talent was snubbed during the SAG Awards 2023 ceremony on Sunday but UK stars including Emily Blunt, Cara Delevingne, Claire Foy and Olivia Williams still dazzled on the glamorous red carpet ahead of the event.

The film stars dressed to impress as they graced the red carpet for the glitzy annual ceremony, with Emily leading the British glamour in a stunning red laser cut gown with a striking floral design.

The 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards, honours the best achievements in film and television performances for the year 2022 but British stars lost out in all the big categories.

Colin Farrell and Bill Nighy lost out to Brendan Fraser the in leading male role category, while Eddie Redmayne and Barry Keoghan lost in the supporting actor category. Taron Egerton and Emily also lost out during the awards.

On the red carpet actress Emily, 40, certainly dazzled in the eye-catching number, which showcased glimpses of her skin between the thin semi-sheer panels that stretched the length of her dress.

Stunners: British talent was snubbed during the SAG Awards 2023 ceremony but UK stars including (L-R) Emily Blunt, Cara Delevingne, Claire Foy and Olivia Williams still dazzled on glamorous red carpet ahead of the event

Emily teamed her gown with a statement silver and ruby snake choker and coordinating earrings, tying in her flawless look bold coral lips and glossy locks which fell about her shoulders.

The A Quiet Place star looked in great spirits as she posed alongside her actor husband John Krasinski, 43, who looked dapper in a black pinstripe suit.

The Hollywood couple looked more loved up than ever as they wrapped an arm around one another to pose for photos at the star studded events.

Emily is up for the Outstanding Performance by a female actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series award for her role in The English.

She is up against Amanda Seyfried in The Dropout, Jessica Chastain in George & Tammy, Julia Garner in Inventing Anna and Niecy Nash-Betts Dahmer in Monster.

Meanwhile Cara, 30, stunned in a black trouser suit with two large roses on it, showcasing her slender figure for the evening out in California.

She also donned a large floor length cape, giving her look an eye-catching touch.

Cara Delevingne complemented her outfit with a pair of strappy black peep toe heels, adding inches to her height. The beauty wore her blonde locks in a sleek straightened style as they cascaded down her back.

Wow: The film stars dressed to impress as they graced the red carpet for the glitzy annual ceremony, with Emily Blunt leading the British glamour in a stunning red laser cut gown with a striking floral design

Loved-up: The actress, 40, looked nothing short of sensational in an eye catching red cut out maxi dress as she stepped out with her actor beau, 43, on the red carpet

Glamorous: The Devil Wears Prada star styled her shoulder length blonde tresses in loose waves and applied a flawless palette of makeup including a swipe of bold red lipstick

Looking good: Meanwhile her husband cut a dapper figure in a black pinstripe double breasted blazer and matching suit trousers

Good luck: Emily is up for the Outstanding Performance by a female actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series award for her role in The English

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

She accessorised with a pair of silver earrings and a necklace as she pouted and smiled at the event.

Meanwhile, Claire Foy looked nothing short of sensational as she walked the star-studded red carpet.

The Crown actress, 38, went braless, donning a plunging floor length yellow number for the event.

Her frock accentuated her hourglass figure and toned arms as she prepared for a fun evening out in California.

Claire toted her essentials in a glitzy clutch bag and sported a silver necklace.

She swept her raven locks into a chic low bun and opted for a slick of classic red lipstick for the star-studded awards show.

She was all smiles as she posed for a series of gorgeous pictures at the glitzy show.

What a stunner: Meanwhile Cara, 30, stunned in a black trouser suit with two large roses on it, showcasing her slender figure for the evening out in California

Beauty: Cara complemented her outfit with a pair of strappy black peep toe heels, adding inches to her height

Looking good: She accessorised with a pair of silver earrings and a necklace as she pouted and smiled at the event

Elsewhere, her fellow The Crown star Olivia Williams 54, donned a flowing floor length orange frock for the event celebrating film and television actors.

Olivia, who stars as Camilla Parker Bowles in the Netflix series, showcased her slender arms in the dress.

The star slicked her short raven tresses back for the event and looked glowing.

She complemented her look with a pair of pink heels, adding inches to her height.

Fabulous frock: Meanwhile, Claire Foy looked nothing short of sensational as she walked the star-studded red carpet

Glamorous girl: She swept her raven locks into a chic low bun and opted for a slick of classic red lipstick for the star-studded awards show

Pretty: Claire also sported light eyeshadow and blush for the event in California alongside a host of other stars

Stunner: The Crown's Olivia Williams cut a stylish figure in a flowing floor length orange frock as she attended the SAG Awards on Sunday night

Beauty: Olivia, who stars as Camilla Parker Bowles in the Netflix series, showcased her slender arms in the dress

Gorgeous: The star slicked her short raven tresses back for the event and looked glowing as she stepped out

Pretty: She toted her essentials in a glitzy clutch bag, opting for a slick of pink lipstick and light eyeshadow

Meanwhile, Eddie Redmayne joined pal Andrew Garfield on the star-studded red carpet as they posed for snaps together.

The actor, 41, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Good Nurse, commanded attention in quirky white shirt with huge sculpted collar.

The Oscar winner completed the look with smart black trousers and wore his brunette locks in matte spikes.

Meanwhile Andrew, 39, opted for a more traditional double-breasted tuxedo which he layered over a crisp white shirt.

The Spiderman star added a little rock and roll to the look opting to go without a tie and sported bushy beard.

Pals: Meanwhile, Eddie Redmayne 9right) joined pal Andrew Garfield on the star-studded red carpet as they posed for snaps together.

Style: The actor, 41, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Good Nurse, commanded attention in quirky white shirt with huge sculpted collar

Effortless: The Oscar winner completed the look with smart black trousers and wore his brunette locks in matte spikes

Cheese! Eddie posed up a storm before heading into the ceremony

Fun times: The duo appeared to be having a wonderful time as they posed for cameras

Smart: Meanwhile Andrew opted for a more traditional double-breasted tuxedo which he layered over a crisp white shirt

Elsewhere, Taron Egerton stood out from the crowd in a white tuxedo as he graced the red carpet.

The Welsh actor, 33, nominated for his role in Black Bird cut a dashing figure in the white blazer and shirt complete with black bow tie and trousers.

The star was in great spirits as he posed for fun snaps alongside fellow actor Austin Butler, 31, who's in the running for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his standout performance in Elvis.

Austin who looked dapper in a burgundy suit was in great spirits as he chatted to and hugged Targon at the glitzy event.

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

Dressed to impress: Elsewhere, Taron Egerton stood out from the crowd in a white tuxedo as he graced the red carpet

Dazzling: The Welsh actor, 33, nominated for his role in Black Bird cut a dashing figure in the white blazer and shirt complete with black bow tie and trousers

Hunks: The star was in great spirits as he posed for fun snaps alongside fellow actor Austin Butler, 31, who's in the running for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his standout performance in Elvis

Having fun: Austin who looked dapper in a burgundy suit was in great spirits as he chatted to and hugged Targon at the glitzy event

Man of the moment: Paul Mescal looked dapper in a black suit too

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Dapper: Bill Nighy attends the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza

Smart: He wore a black suit and crisp white shirt and shiny black shoes

Quirky: He carried a small toy animal with him on the red carpet

In his element: He looked in great spirits at the event

Trio: Rooney Mara, Claire Foy, and Jessie Buckley all posed together on the red carpet

Larking about: Emily later posed with Jamie Lee Curtis as they let their hair down

Having fun: They looked in great spirits

Awards: Jason Bateman and Emily Blunt speak onstage during the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

Chatting: Orlando Bloom and Claire had a catch up at the awards

LOL: Cara Delevingne and Aubrey Plaza were having fun

Catching up: Haley Lu Richardson and Cara also spoke at the event

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Jessica Barden has said stars like Emma Corrin should not play characters from less privileged backgrounds, labelling it 'working class tourism.'

The actress, 30, was born into a working class family in Northallerton, North Yorkshire and her mother worked as an accountant while her father worked as a prison officer.

She takes exception to stars like Emma, who recently said they wanted to star in a 'gritty' independent film after playing Diana in the Crown and have an 'outrageous accent' and red hair.

Jessica is the daughter-in-law of Happy Days' legend Henry Winkler, known for character Fonzie, after tying the knot to his screenwriter son Max in 2021.

But the screen star has shared that she feels that if she gets a script for a 'gritty' show or film, it means she is playing something being abused.

Hitting out: Jessica Barden has said stars like Emma Corrin should not play characters from less privileged backgrounds

Jessica does not think posh actors and actresses should venture into the realms of playing working class characters in shows and films.

Speaking to The Sunday Times Culture magazine, she said: 'I hate words like gritty or feisty.

'Gritty means working class and feisty means you have an opinion. I die inside when I read them.

'I was, like, why are you allowed to talk like this? How is working class tourism still OK for posh actors?'

Jessica, who now lives in Los Angeles with husband Max Winkler, also revealed that in the acting industry, she is one of very few working class stars.

During her career, she has played roles including Pea Gibbons in Jerusalem by Jez Butterworth at London's Royal Court Theatre.

In her role, she was a drunk teen who came out from underneath a caravan worse for wear during the show.

Her Yorkshire background is in stark contrast to Emma, who was born in Royal Tunbridge Wells.

The star was privately educated at Woldingham School, went to Cambridge and had a father who was a businessman and a speech therapist mother.

Something new? Jessica takes exception to stars like Emma, who recently said they wanted to star in a 'gritty' independent film and have an 'outrageous accent' and red hair

Elsewhere, Line of Duty star Vicky McClure previously spoke out about being a working-class actress.

Vicky, 35, from Nottingham, most well known for her role as DI Kate Fleming in BBC drama Line of Duty, said that 'money' helps when you are starting out as an actor, but if you are from a working class background, like her, then it can be a struggle.

She told Stylist magazine: 'If youre auditioning, you need to be in London. And thats expensive: to get a train, to print out a script. Little things that people would not think about if theyve got money.'

The actor also revealed that she still lives in Nottingham as her family, including actor husband Johnny, will always come before her job.

Talking about being from a working class background the actress, who has also appeared in This is England, said: 'In some ways people question you: Well, you dont look very working-class. And you go, Does it matter?.

She went on to say: 'I didnt feel poor as a child because we werent, we were working-class.'

The actress also spoke about how family was her number one. She said: 'My job will always come second. When Im on my deathbed, Im not going to go, I wish Id worked more. Ill think I wish Id spent more time with people I love.'

She went on to say that she gets so much out of her job, but loves spending time with her husband, Jonathan Owen - who is a Welsh producer and actor having starred in Shameless and Murphy's Law, and the rest of her family.

Vicky, 35, from Nottingham, is most well known for her role as DI Kate Fleming in BBC drama Line of Duty, but said that 'money' helps when you are starting out as an actor

Born and bred in Nottingham the actress was raised on a council estate in Nottingham before going on to attend a free acting school in her home city.

Through her association with director Shame Meadows she rose to fame with a role in his comedy drama A Room for Romeo Brass before going on to appear in This is England and its subsequent TV spin-offs.

The actress starred in every series of Line of Duty, which was well-received,

The first episode of series five was watched by a 7.8million people in 2019- making it the most watched show of 2019 so far.
Jessica Chastain looked absolutely stunning in a voluminous fuchsia gown, adorned with vertical ruffles down the front, to the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards.

As she arrived to the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City on Sunday night, the Oscar winner, 45, oozed glamour as she posed for solo shots on the red carpet.

For the occasion, she accessorized her floor-length dress from Zuhair Murad, which features a plunging neckline, a hot pink lipstick and colorful statement earrings.

The star was dressed to impress while vying to take home the prize for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her role in George & Tammy.

The mother-of-two, who won the same category last year for her role in The Eyes of Tammy Faye, also sported a winged black eyeliner and plenty of blush for a youthful glow.

Glamorous: Jessica Chastain looked absolutely stunning in a voluminous fuchsia gown, adorned with vertical ruffles down the front, to the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

Her nearly waist-length red tresses cascaded down her back in pin-straight strands.

Jessica's makeup artist Kristofer Buckle used products from Charlotte Tilbury to achieve the actress's look for the evening - which was 'inspired by a punk princess', he revealed.

'Todays look was inspired by a punk princess, matching her lips to her Gucci gown, and choosing a fierce black winged liner on her upper lid,' he revealed - explaining that he used the Charlotte Tilbury Feline Flick in Panther to get that perfect wing on her eyes, while her lip color was created using the K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Velvet Underground.

'I also added the new Hollywood Glow Glide Highlighter in Moonlit Glow to her shoulders and decolletage,' Kristofer added, while the newly-launched Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand accentuated the actress's natural glow.

The Molly's Game is nominated for Showtime's miniseries about George Jones and Tammy Wynette, which aired its finale episode in December.

The show reunited her and Michael Shannon, who she starred with in the 2011 psychological thriller Take Shelter.

The show follows Tammy and George as they thunder through drugs, fights and even - in her case - shock therapy.

The duo had a dramatic and explosive marriage from 1969 to 1975, scarred by problems including his galloping alcoholism.

Wow: As she arrived to the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City on Sunday night, the Ava actress, 45, oozed glamour as she posed for a series of photos on the red carpet

Dressed to win: For the occasion, she accessorized her floor-length dress from Zuhair Murad, which features a plunging neckline, a hot pink lipstick and colorful statement earrings

Nominee: The Oscar winner dressed to impress as she vies for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her role in George & Tammy

Big night:The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix 's YouTube channel

Tammy herself eventually became addicted to painkillers for years before dying of a heart attack at the age of just 55 in 1998.

In addition to her busy work schedule, Chastain is married to Gian Luca, an executive for fashion brand Moncler.

The Eyes of Tammy Faye star and her spouse share two young children, named Giulietta and Augustus.

The ceremony will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category, while Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

Nominees: Ozark (pictured) and Better Call Saul were among the major TV nominees. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in lead drama categories

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.

Quinta Brunson, who won a Golden Globe for Abbott Elementary, was nominated for the series along with the rest of the cast in the ensemble category.

Barry scored ensemble and individual nominations for stars Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan.

Finale: Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Christina Applegate and Rachel Brosnahan rounded out the female nominees for Dead To Me and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, respectively.

Television movies and limited series actors were also honored, though only with individual nominations.

Taron Egerton and Golden Globe winner Paul Walter Hauser scored nods for Blackbird, while Evan Peters and Niecy Nash were both nominated for the chilling thriller Dahmer.

Limited series: Jessica Chastain was nominated for the limited series and TV movie category for George And Tammy (pictured), while Amanda Seyfried was nominated for The Dropout and Steve Carrell was nominated for The Patient

Sam Elliott's work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883 was also recognized, as were Emily Blunt for The English and Amanda Seyfried for The Dropout.

Rounding out the A-lister nominations in the categories were Oscar winner Jessica Chastain for George And Tammy and Steve Carrell for the thriller The Patient.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

The 76-year-old actress who exclaimed, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' when she won her second Oscar for Best Actress in 1984's Places in the Heart, is no stranger to Hollywood honors. Field has won Best Actress twice as she also scored for 1984's Places In The Heart.

Hollywood royalty: The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field, 76, with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits (Pictured January 5 in Palm Springs)

You Like Me: During her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 1985 Oscars ceremonies, Sally endeared the audience when she told them, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 1985)

The talented actress has also won the SAG Award in the Outstanding Actress in a Drama series category for Brothers & Sisters. She has been nominated a total of 8 times.

Field has also received three Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, a Cannes Film Festival Award, and nominations for a Tony Award and two British Academy Film Awards.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
Paul Mescal cut a stylish figure at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The Irish actor, 27, turned heads in a pearl and diamond encrusted jacket which he layered over a smart navy shirt.

Paul completed the look with smart trousers and slipped his feet into patent Chelsea boots as he posed up a storm ahead of the ceremony.

The Normal People star wore his brunette locks in a relaxed style and rocked a gold earring as he oozed confidence in front of the cameras.

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Style: Paul Mescal, 27, cut a stylish figure at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Suave: The Irish actor urned heads in a pearl and diamond encrusted jacket which he layered over a smart navy shirt

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

hoping for glory: The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell (left) in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan (right) in the supporting male category

Winner? The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once (pictured) which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Owners of MAN Truck & Bus vehicles hang banners on their trucks in front of the Government Sejong Convention Center, in order to urge the German company to compensate for faulty engines in this 2018 file photo. Newsis



German commercial vehicle maker's market share plunges over safety concerns



By Park Jae-hyuk



MAN Truck & Bus, a German commercial vehicle manufacturer owned by Volkswagen Group, has failed to regain its status as the second-most-popular imported commercial vehicle brand in Korea following Volvo, since Scania, another Volkswagen Group affiliate, won the title in 2020.



Data compiled by the Korea Automobile Importers & Distributors Association showed Monday that the number of MAN's commercial vehicles newly registered in Korea last month stood at 48, down 22.6 percent from 62 in December 2022. The number of newly registered commercial vehicles made by Scania was 107 last month, up 2.9 percent from 104 in December 2022.



In 2022, MAN was the only imported commercial vehicle brand that showed a decline in the number of newly registered vehicles. The number of its commercial vehicles registered newly in Korea last year was 953, a 6 percent drop year-on-year from 1,014. In contrast, Scania enjoyed a 15.8 percent year-on-year increase to 1,564.



MAN's declining popularity has been attributed mainly to its lingering legal disputes with truckers in Korea over alleged defects in its vehicles, which have caused safety concerns.



The company was first embroiled in conflicts in 2018 with Korean truck owners, who hired one of the nation's major law firms, Barun Law, to take legal action against the German truck maker's local subsidiary, MAN Truck & Bus Korea.



At that time, the truckers complained about the engines of their trucks getting rusty because of malfunctioning water retarders. Some of them even claimed there were also problems with steering wheels, brake pedals and retarders in MAN's vehicles.



After the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport started paying attention to this issue, MAN announced it "voluntarily" decided to recall its dump trucks, while denying the claims over engine defects in its vehicles. The company said that faulty cooling hoses caused damage to the engines.



MAN's top executives also apologized to Korean customers, making an agreement with truckers that the company would guarantee free repairs for a longer period of time.





MAN Truck & Bus Korea Managing Director Thomas Hemmerich / Courtesy of MAN Truck & Bus Korea
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Christina Applegate brought her lookalike daughter Sadie Grace LeNoble, 12, to the 2023 SAG Awards on Sunday night, after saying the ceremony may be her 'last awards show as an actor' amid her battle with multiple sclerosis.

While arriving to the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California, alongside her little girl, who she shares with husband Martyn LeNoble, the 51-year-old star carried a black cane with 'FU [f**k you] MS' written on the bottom as well as her preteen's name, next to a bedazzled red heart.

For the special occasion, the Emmy winner, who was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series, cut a glamorous figure in a black velvet tuxedo-style gown, red lipstick and her golden blonde tresses in loose waves.

Sadie, who sweetly held her mother's hand on the red carpet as photographers snapped their photo, sported a structured black blazer, newsboy cap and a pair of black Dr. Martens boots with bright yellow laces.

Ultimately, Applegate lost her category to Jean Smart, who took home the prize for her role as Deborah Vance in HBO's hit series, Hacks.

Doting mom: Christina Applegate brought her lookalike daughter Sadie Grace LeNoble, 12, to the 2023 SAG Awards on Sunday night, after saying the ceremony may be her 'last awards show as an actor' amid her battle with Multiple sclerosis

Despite her loss, Applegate cheered loudly and joyously threw her arms up in the air as Smart was declared the winner.

Earlier this month, the Married With Child star told the Los Angeles Times that this would be her 'last awards show as an actor probably, so it's kind of a big deal.'

'Right now, I couldn't imagine getting up at 5 a.m. and spending 12 to 14 hours on a set; I don't have that in me at this moment,' she explained.

The actress, 51, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) while shooting the third and final season of Netflix's hit series Dead To Me in August 2021.

Her role as cynical widow Jen Harding has earned her a SAG nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series.

Though she is taking a step back from acting, Christina told the publication that she's pursuing voiceover work.

'Doing a s*** ton of voice-overs to make some cash to make sure that my daughter's fed and we're homed,' she quipped.

Dead To Me premiered premiered in 2019 and aired its final episode in November 2022.

The comedy series follows Jen (Christina) who, after losing her husband to a hit-and-run, meets fellow widower Judy Hale (Linda Cardellini) at a grief counseling session.

Holding hands: While arriving to the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California , alongside her little girl, who she shares with husband Martyn LeNoble, the 51-year-old star carried a black cane with 'FU [f**k you] MS' written on the bottom as well as her preteen's name on it

Making a statement: Her cane had 'F U MS' on it as well as her daughter's name

Matching: Sadie, who sweetly held her mother's hand on the red carpet as photographers snapped their photo, sported a structured black blazer, newsboy cap and a pair of black Dr. Martens boots with bright yellow laces

The duo form an unlikely friendship that leads to Jen making Judy a part of her and her children's lives.

But drama unfolds as it's revealed that Judy is harboring a dark secret that will change life as they know it.

In her conversation with the LA Times, Christina said she was 'a wreck everyday' as she filmed Dead To Me's final season while 'struggling' with her MS symptoms.

'But most of that wreck would take place in my trailer by myself,' she recalled.

Production took a five month break shortly so she could undergo the treatment she needed.

Filming resumed in early 2022 and wrapped by that February.

'There were times I'd break down on set and be like, "I can't, we have to take a break, I need a half-hour," and everyone was so loving that it was OK,' she continued.

Supportive daughter: For the special occasion, the Emmy winner, who was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series, cut a glamorous figure in a black velvet tuxedo-style gown, red lipstick and her golden blonde tresses in loose waves

An honor to be nominated: Ultimately, Applegate lost her category to Jean Smart, who took home the prize for her role as Deborah Vance in HBO's hit series, Hacks

Sweet: Despite her loss, Applegate cheered loudly and joyously threw her arms up in the air as Smart was declared the winner

Christina praised the show's 'incredible' cast and crew for providing her with the support and understanding she needed to get through the difficult shoot.

Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of nerves, and interrupts the flow of information between the brain and the body.

Christina's diagnosis came after years of overlooked symptoms including balance/mobility issues as well as tingling and numbness in her arms and legs.

The Sweetest Thing actress now struggles to walk without the support of a cane, which she's previously described as her 'new normal.' Treatment and her lack of mobility has resulted in weight gain.

Christina previously battled breast cancer in 2008, which led to her undergoing a double mastectomy. She had her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed in 2017.

The actress admitted that it was extremely painful watching herself in Dead To Me season three.

'I don't like seeing myself struggling,' she explained. 'Also, I gained 40 pounds because of inactivity and medications, and I didn't look like myself, and I didn't feel like myself.

'At some point I was able to distance myself from my own ego, and realize what a beautiful piece of television it was.

'All the scenes I wasn't in were so much fun to see and experience for the very first time,' she concluded.

Christina made her first awards show appearance since being diagnosed with MS at the Critics' Choice Awards in January, where she was also accompanied by Sadie.

In November, Christina received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame which was her 'first time out since diagnosed with MS,' she said in a tweet.

Glamorous: The star rocked a bright red lipstick for a pop of color

Sweet: Applegate applauded Jean Smart for winning

Emotional: Applegate looked a tad teary-eyed as she watched Smart on stage

Speaking at the ceremony last year, Applegate teared up as she thanked her friends for helping her live every day with the condition.

'This day means more to me that you could possibly imagine,' she began, adding: 'I don't say I have friends, I have family. These people take care of me every day of my life, and without them I don't know what I would do.'

But, she said, 'the most important person in this world' is her daughter, Sadie Grace.

'You are so much more than even you know,' the famed actress told her daughter. 'You are so beautiful and kind and loving and smart and interesting, and I am blessed every day that I get to wake up and take you to school.

'You are my everything,' Applegate said. 'Thank you for standing by my side through all of this.'

She then turned back to the audience, saying: 'Oh and by the way: I have a disease. Did you not notice?'

Nominee: Her impressive performance as cynical widow Jen Harding has earned her a SAG nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series

Dead To Me premiered premiered in 2019 and aired its final episode in November 2022. The comedy series follows Jen (Christina) who, after losing her husband to a hit-and-run, meets fellow widower Judy Hale (Linda Cardellini) at a grief counseling session; Christina and Linda seen in Dead To Me season three

Honored: In November, Christina received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame which was her 'first time out since diagnosed with MS,' she said in a tweet; pictured in November

Applegate was diagnosed with MS while in production on the final season of her show, Dead to Me, which then took a five month break so that she could begin her treatment.

But the Anchorman star pushed on to continue shooting the last season.

'I had an obligation. The powers that be were like, "Lets just stop. We dont need to finish it. Let's put a few episodes together [with previously recorded footage],"' Applegate previously told The New York Times. 'I said, "No. Were going to do it, but were going to do it on my terms."'

She also shared that when production of the show  which has earned her two Emmy nominations  paused 'There was the sense of, "Well, lets get her some medicine so she can get better."'

However, the actress added that 'There is no better' and said, 'Im never going to accept this. I'm p***ed.'

Ultimately taking the break was 'good' for her: 'I needed to process my loss of my life, my loss of that part of me. So I needed that time. Although its not like I came on the other side of it, like, "Woohoo, Im totally fine."'

The Los Angeles born beauty also said that looking back there were some signs of the disease, as she talked about losing her balance in a dance scene during the first season.

'I wish I had paid attention. But who was I to know?' she said.

The star shared that once she returned, she needed a wheelchair to get to set due to her declined mobility, and that a sound technician had to hold up her legs in order to get certain shots.

She said she couldn't film shots of her walking into a room because she would need assistance, and that she would lean against doors while standing to be able to stay up.

The star also said she isn't sure whether she'll watch the final season as it's too painful, but that she wanted to finish shooting it for her co-star Linda Cardellini and show creator Liz Feldman.

'If people hate it, if people love it, if all they can concentrate on is, "Ooh, look at the cripple," thats not up to me. Im sure that people are going to be, like, "I cant get past it." Fine, dont get past it, then. But hopefully people can get past it and just enjoy the ride and say goodbye to these two girls,' she stated.

In the show Applegate stars as sardonic widow Jen Harding who, after the loss of her husband from a hit-and-run accident, crosses paths with free spirited Judy Hale (played by Cardellini) at a grief support group.

Their unlikely friendship, eventually, becomes complicated by secrets, lies, and an accidental murder that bonds them for life.

Dead To Me premiered its first season on the streaming platform with a 10-episode drop in May 2019. The half-hour dark comedy returned for its second season in May 2020, also with 10-episodes.

Though the series was renewed for a third season in June 2020, the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent Hollywood production shutdown kept production at a standstill.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday night as Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Ke Huy Quan were all recognized with Brendan Fraser enjoying his comeback moment with a tearful speech as he earned a top honor.

The American absurdist comedy-drama film also earned the top award of the night Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the star-studded event which took place place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California.

The film beat out star-studded casts including: Babylon, The Banshees Of Inisherin, The Fabelmans, and Women Talking.

Yeoh, Curtis, and Quan all gave brief speeches before allowing 'patriarch and friend' James Hong to take the mic for most of the final acceptance speech.

The 94-year-old acting legend said: 'I got my first SAG card 70 years ago. My first movie was with Clark Gable but back in those days I have to tell you the leading role was played by guys with their eyes taped up and they talked like this because the producer said Asians are not good enough and they are not box office, but look at us now, huh?

Nominees: Ozark (pictured) and Better Call Saul were among the major TV nominees. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in lead drama categories

'We're not all Chinese but Jamie Lee is a good Chinese name... I feel very akin to her and I've never had such a good time as I did with these jerks on the movie.'

The film is centered around a middle-aged Chinese immigrant named Evelyn Wang (played by Yeoh) who is swept up into an insane adventure in which she alone can save existence by exploring other universes and connecting with the lives she could have led.

Yeoh, 60, became the first ever Asian actress to earn Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role as she triumphed over: Cate Blanchett -Tar, Viola Davis - The Woman King, Ana de Armas - Blonde, and Danielle Deadwyler - Till.

Earlier in the night Jamie Lee Curtis, 64, planted a big smooch on Yeoh shortly after her name was announced as the winner of Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role.

Curtis won over an impressive field including: Angela Bassett - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Hong Chau - The Whale, Kerry Condon - The Banshees of Inisherin, and Stephanie Hsu - Everything Everywhere All At Once.

Meanwhile castmate Ke Huy Quan earned Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for the same American absurdist comedy-drama film.

The 51-year-old actor got emotional as he revealed that he was the first Asian male actor to ever win the award.

Though Everything Everywhere All At Once earned four of the main five film awards, Brendan Fraser continued his comeback tour in emotional fashion as he earned top honor Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for The Whale.

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Christina Applegate and Rachel Brosnahan rounded out the female nominees for Dead To Me and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, respectively.

Television movies and limited series actors were also honored, though only with individual nominations.

Taron Egerton and Golden Globe winner Paul Walter Hauser scored nods for Blackbird, while Evan Peters and Niecy Nash were both nominated for the chilling thriller Dahmer.

Limited series: Jessica Chastain was nominated for the limited series and TV movie category for George And Tammy (pictured), while Amanda Seyfried was nominated for The Dropout and Steve Carrell was nominated for The Patient

The 54-year-old acting veteran got tearful during his acceptance speech as he said: 'I treasure this, but never more than when I treasured what I used to keep in my wallet, which was my SAG card that I earned in 1991. It made me feel like I belonged.

'As actors, we all want to belong to a tribe and thats when I found where I belong. And if you told that guy back then that Id be standing right here right now, I would not have believed you.'

Fraser triumphed over Austin Butler - Elvis, Colin Farrell - The Banshees Of Inisherin, Bill Nighy - Living, and Adam Sandler - Hustle.

In The Whale, Brendan portrays Charlie a reclusive, morbidly obese English teacher attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter.

Hollywood royalty: The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field, 76, with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits (Pictured January 5 in Palm Springs)

You Like Me: During her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 1985 Oscars ceremonies, Sally endeared the audience when she told them, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 1985)

The White Lotus was the biggest winner on the television side as the HBO series earned Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series in addition to a Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series win for Jennifer Coolidge.

The 61-year-old acting veteran got emotional while recalling a childhood anecdote during her acceptance speech at the 2023 Screen Actors Guild awards.

The White Lotus star, 61, won for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series for her portrayal of Tanya on season 2 of the hit HBO series.

As she accepted the honor the actress first thanked the show's creator, Mike White, before getting emotional while talking about her 'amazing parents' and how they inspired her to act.

Coolidge won over Elizabeth Debicki - The Crown, Julia Garner - Ozark, Laura Linney - Ozark, and Zendaya - Euphoria.

The HBO series won the ensemble award over Better Call Saul, The Crown, Ozark, and Severance.
Brendan Fraser was pictured on the red carpet of the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California with his partner Jeanne Moore.

The Whale star, 54, who has been nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in the Darren Aronofskydirected drama, donned a sleek all-black ensemble, matching Moore.

The Indianapolis, Indiana-born actor was clad in a black suit with a bow tie and black leather shoes.

He wore dark-rimmed glasses and had his brown hair in a short-cropped style at the luxe event.

Moore was clad in a black ruched strapless dress with black heels as she posed alongside the Oscar-nominated actor.

Fraser was also seen posing with his collaborators on the film, director Aronofsky and costar Hong Chau, at the event.

The veteran actor has enjoyed a career comeback with the emotional role, which he has received multiple standing ovations for at film festivals, beginning this past September at the Venice Film Festival.

Fraser has previously emerged victorious at the SAG Awards, sharing the honors of Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture for 2004's Crash with costars including Thandiwe Newton, Ryan Phillippe, Matt Dillon and Sandra Bullock.

The latest: Brendan Fraser, 53, was pictured on the red carpet of the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California with his partner Jeanne Moore

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters. Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Happy: The Whale star who has been nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in the Darren Aronofskydirected drama, donned a sleek all-black ensemble, matching Moore

Dapper: The Indianapolis, Indiana-born actor was clad in a black suit with a bow tie and black leather shoes

Renaissance: The veteran actor has enjoyed a career comeback with the emotional role, which he has received multiple standing ovations for at film festivals

Neat: He wore dark-rimmed glasses and had his brown hair in a short-cropped style at the luxe event

Happy couple: Moore was seen leaning her head on Fraser's shoulder inside the event

Feted: Fraser was also seen posing with his collaborators on the film, director Aronofsky, costar Hong Chau and producer Jeremy Dawson at the event

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category, while Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

Nominees: Ozark (pictured) and Better Call Saul were among the major TV nominees. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in lead drama categories

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.

Quinta Brunson, who won a Golden Globe for Abbott Elementary, was nominated for the series along with the rest of the cast in the ensemble category.

Barry scored ensemble and individual nominations for stars Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan.

Finale: Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Christina Applegate and Rachel Brosnahan rounded out the female nominees for Dead To Me and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, respectively.

Television movies and limited series actors were also honored, though only with individual nominations.

Taron Egerton and Golden Globe winner Paul Walter Hauser scored nods for Blackbird, while Evan Peters and Niecy Nash were both nominated for the chilling thriller Dahmer.

Limited series: Jessica Chastain was nominated for the limited series and TV movie category for George And Tammy (pictured), while Amanda Seyfried was nominated for The Dropout and Steve Carrell was nominated for The Patient

Sam Elliott's work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883 was also recognized, as were Emily Blunt for The English and Amanda Seyfried for The Dropout.

Rounding out the A-lister nominations in the categories were Oscar winner Jessica Chastain for George And Tammy and Steve Carrell for the thriller The Patient.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

The 76-year-old actress who exclaimed, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' when she won her second Oscar for Best Actress in 1984's Places in the Heart, is no stranger to Hollywood honors. Field has won Best Actress twice as she also scored for 1984's Places In The Heart.

Hollywood royalty: The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field, 76, with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits (Pictured January 5 in Palm Springs)

You Like Me: During her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 1985 Oscars ceremonies, Sally endeared the audience when she told them, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 1985)

The talented actress has also won the SAG Award in the Outstanding Actress in a Drama series category for Brothers & Sisters. She has been nominated a total of 8 times.

Field has also received three Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, a Cannes Film Festival Award, and nominations for a Tony Award and two British Academy Film Awards.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
Colin Farrell looked every inch the Hollywood movie star as he walked the red carpet at Sunday's 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles.

The actor, 46, who is nominated for Best Actor in The Banshees Of Inisherin, proudly posed with co-stars Brendan Gleeson and Kerry Condon ahead of the ceremony.

Colin looked suave in a three-piece black Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo which he layered over a crisp white shirt and completed with a dickie bow.

Slipping his feet into patent dress shoes, the Irish actor slicked back his dark locks and sported designer stubble.

Meanwhile Kerry, 40, who's also nominated, looked gorgeous in a bejewelled gown that hugged every inch of her figure.

Dapper Colin Farrell (left) looked every inch the Hollywood movie star as he walked the red carpet at Sunday's 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles (pictured with The Banshees Of Inisherin Brendan Gleeson (right) and Kerry Condon (centre)

Suave: Colin, 46, looked suave in a three-piece black Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo which he layered over a crisp white shirt and completed with a dickie bow

Proud: Brendan, 67 (right) again a nominee, also sported a classic tuxedo and beamed for the cameras on his big night

The chic frock boasted an intricate beaded bodice and collar as well as a long flowing train.

She accentuated her pretty features with make-up and wore her blonde tresses poker straight.

Brendan, 67, again a nominee, also sported a classic tuxedo and beamed for the cameras on his big night.

Meanwhile co-star and fellow nominee Barry Keoghan, 30, rocked a white suit and oozed confidence on the red carpet.

It comes after the young actor revealed that he is planning to celebrate his win at the British Academy Film Awards by ordering room service and 'cuddling' his son.

Barry was awarded the Supporting Actor gong for his role as Dominic Kearney in The Banshees Of Inisherin during last week's ceremony at London's Royal Festival Hall.

And speaking after his historic victory, Barry gushed that he would be going home to 'cuddle' his son Brando, after dedicating his award to the children who grow up where he comes from.

Speaking in the winners room after his honour he said: 'I'm going to go home now and cuddle my son. Go home and cuddle him.'

Stunning: Meanwhile Kerry, 40, who's also nominated, looked gorgeous in a bejewelled gown that hugged every inch of her figure

Beauty: The chic frock boasted an intricate beaded bodice and collar as well as a long flowing train

Stylish: Meanwhile co-star and fellow nominee Barry Keoghan, 30, rocked a white suit and oozed confidence on the red carpet

Winner: It comes after the young actor revealed that he is planning to celebrate his win at the British Academy Film Awards by ordering room service and 'cuddling' his son

Famous friends: Inside the event he cuddled up to Hollywood heavyweight Jamie Lee Curtis

Barry also said he feels the Bafta award success for The Banshees Of Inisherin will encourage artists in Ireland to 'send the scripts in and go for what they want to do'.

Reflecting on what it means to receive the award for a film which is so close to home, he said: 'It encourages the arts at home and we are an island of storytelling and great actors and poets and writers.

'And this helps the industry massively at home and encourages people to send the scripts in and go for what they want to do.'

When he took to the stage to accept his award, Barry said he 'should have planned this, really' before thanking his co-stars and Ireland.

Cute! The actor shared a sweet snap of his son being held by his co-star Colin ahead of last week's ceremony

Cast: The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell (left) iand Barry Keoghan (right)

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.
Cate Blanchett looked nothing short of spectacular as she attended the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The Australian actress, 53, recycled an old Armani dress she previously wore on the red carpet back in 2016 for the star-studded ceremony.

Cate's gown featured a figure-hugging design and a plunging neckline, complete with stunning lace over the bust and back.

The high-fashion number highlighted her trim figure, as she opted for a glamorous makeup palette comprising dewy foundation and a soft pink lip.

Cate was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role at the SAG Awards for her work in Tar.

Cate Blanchett looked nothing short of spectacular as she attended the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

Cate previously wore the dress to the 18th Costume Designers Guild Awards in Los Angeles seven years ago.

However, she has since modified the frock to include a deeper neckline and lace detailing.

Cate appeared in high spirits at the SAG Awards, mingling with A-list guests including Amy Poehler and Aubrey Plaza.

Cate's gown featured a figure-hugging design and a plunging neckline, complete with stunning lace over the bust and back

She mingled with A-list guests including Amy Poehler (centre) and Aubrey Plaza (right)

Cate wore the dress to the 18th Costume Designers Guild Awards in LA in 2016 (pictured)

She was also spotted rubbing shoulders with Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan.

Last week at the BAFTAs, Cate won Best Actress for Tar in which she portrays a narcissistic orchestra conductor.

She beat the likes of Viola Davis, Danielle Deadwyler, Ana de Armas, Emma Thompson and Michelle Yeoh for the gong.

She was also spotted rubbing shoulders with Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan

Michelle looked chic in a black dress that featured a yellow embellishment down the front

Cate was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role at the SAG Awards for her work in Tar

She also thanked her family in her speech, saying: '[Thank you] so much for letting me go because this was, really, it did take a lot. It took me away from you enormous a lot.

'"Enormous a lot?" I don't know, whatever that means. That was the state I was in.'

She recently said the themes of the drama galvanised its cast and crew, making the film shoot 'the most stimulating' she had ever been on.

In the feature she plays Lydia Tar, the world-renowned gay conductor of a Berlin orchestra whose high-flying career is tainted by an abuse scandal.
Ariana DeBose and Angela Bassett were bright stars at the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday.

DeBose, 32 - who is set to present at the ceremony - was chic as ever in a plunging hot pink oversized pantsuit with bell bottom pants.

Meanwhile the Black Panther star, 64, was glamorous as ever in a mermaid tail vivid yellow gown with a tulle hem.

The appearance comes the night after Angela referenced Ariana's now infamous rap at the BAFTA Film Awards, during her NAACP Image Awards acceptance speech.

Ariana stunned viewers with her rap performance celebrating female nominees last Sunday - with the line 'Angela Bassett did the thing' and accompanying shoulder popping becoming an international meme and sparked a wave of backlash.

They did the thing! Ariana DeBose and Angela Bassett were bright stars at the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday

Awkward: The appearance comes after Ariana's now infamous opening rap at the BAFTAs, where she stunned viewers with the line 'Angela Bassett did the thing'

DeBose wore her dark tresses in braids that cascaded down her back and kept her accessories to a minimum, keeping the focus on her bold outfit.

Meanwhile Angela wore stunning drop earrings and styled her hair into voluminous tight curls. She accessorized the look with a unique seashell clutch.

Inside the event she was seen mingling with Everything Everywhere All at Once star Michelle Yeoh, 60.

Angela is nominated in the Female Actor in a Supporting Role category, for her role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

On Saturday Bassett broke her silence on Ariana's viral rap which included that iconic line about the actress 'doing the thing'.

The star revealed that she messaged the West Side Story actress to check in and ask if she was okay.

Angela told Variety at the 54th NAACP Awards about the aftermath, saying: 'I DM'd her last night.

'I just wanted to make sure she was okay because, you know, it's a lot of attention. And she is A-Okay.

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

Glamorous: The Black Panther star, 64, was glamorous as ever in a mermaid tail vivid yellow gown with a tulle hem

Unique: She accessorized the look with a unique seashell clutch and wore her hair in voluminous tight curls

Hot pink: DeBose, 32 - who is set to present at the ceremony - was chic as ever in a plunging hot pink oversized pantsuit with bell bottom pants

The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star also said that she thought the moment was 'beautiful'.

She also teasingly quoted Ariana, during her acceptance speech, and said: 'I guess Angela Bassett did the thing!' to cheers from the audience.

Ariana recently issued her first public statement regarding what has quickly gone down as arguably the most embarrassing opening performance in 76-years of rich and varied BAFTA history.

The apparent outrage prompted a well-meaning DeBose to deactivate her Twitter account, but the star was back online after spotting a meme account devoted to her notorious performance on Instagram.

Using one of the performance's memorable lyrics, one meme features a shot of former US President George W. Bush being told of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center by former Chief Of Staff Andy Card.

The image, perhaps one of the defining moments from the 2001 tragedy, is superimposed with the words: 'Sir, Angela Bassett did the thing.'

Responding to the lighthearted post on Tuesday, DeBose wrote: 'Honestly, I love this.'

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Lovely in yellow: Inside the event she was seen mingling with Everything Everywhere All at Once star Michelle Yeoh, 60

Nominated: Angela is nominated in the Female Actor in a Supporting Role category, for her role in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

On her way: The beauty was seen making her way to the event in the spectacular gown

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya, Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.

Sweet: On Saturday Bassett broke her silence on Ariana's viral rap and revealed she messaged the actress to check in: 'I just wanted to make sure she was okay because, you know, it's a lot of attention. And she is A-Okay'

Iconic: The line 'Angela Bassett did the thing' and accompanying shoulder popping became an international meme and sparked a wave of backlash (Ariana pictured doing the rap)
Taron Egerton oozed old Hollywood as he attended the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The British actor, 33, looked suave in a classic white tuxedo as he caught up with pal and Elvis star Austin Butler, 31.

Taron, who's nominated for his role in crime drama Black Bird, appeared in high spirits as he chatted with his friend ahead of the ceremony.

The rocket man star teamed the look with black trousers along with a crisp white shirt and dickie bow.

Meanwhile Austin, who is up for best Actor for Elvis, looked stylish in a burgundy three-piece suit.

Famous friends: Taron Egerton (right) caught up with pal Austin Butler (left) at the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Great time: Taron, who's nominated for his role in crime drama Black Bird, appeared in high spirits as he chatted with his friend ahead of the ceremony

Old Hollywood: The actor oozed Old Hollywood in a classic white tuxedo jacket

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Pals: Meanwhile Austin, who is up for best Actor for Elvis, looked stylish in a burgundy three-piece suit

Smarty pants: The rocket man star teamed the look with black trousers along with a crisp white shirt and dickie bow

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

2023 SAG AWARD WINNERS - FULL LIST FILM Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role Austin Butler - Elvis Colin Farrell - The Banshees Of Inisherin Brendan Fraser - The Whale - WINNER Bill Nighy - Living Adam Sandler - Hustle Comeback king: Brendan Fraser earned Best Male Actor in a Leading Role for The Whale Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role Cate Blanchett -Tar Viola Davis - The Woman King Ana de Armas - Blonde Danielle Deadwyler - Till Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once - WINNER Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role Paul Dano - The Fablelmans Brenda Gleeson - The Banshees of Inisherin Barry Keoghan - The Banshees of Inisherin Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once - WINNER Eddie Redmayne - The Good Nurse Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role Angela Bassett - Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Hong Chau - The Whale Kerry Condon - The Banshees of Inisherin Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once - WINNER Stephanie Hsu - Everything Everywhere All At Once Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture Babylon The Banshees Of Inisherin Everything Everywhere All At Once - WINNER The Fabelmans Women Talking Top honors: Everything Everywhere All At Once won four of five of the film awards Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture The Batman Avatar: The Way Of Water Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Top Gun: Maverick - WINNER The Woman King TV Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series Steve Carell - The Patient Taron Egerton - Black Bird Sam Elliott - 1883 - WINNER Paul Walter Hauser - Black Bird Evan Peters - Dahmer - Monster Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series Emily Blunt - The English Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy - WINNER Julia Garner - Inventing Anna Niecy Nash-Betts Dahmer - Monster Amanda Seyfried - The Dropout Leading lady: Jessica Chastain won Best Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for George & Tammy Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series Jonathan Banks - Better Call Saul Jason Bateman - Ozark - WINNER Jeff Bridges - The Old Man Bob Odenkirk - Better Call Saul Adam Scott - Severance Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus - WINNER Elizabeth Debicki - The Crown Julia Garner - Ozark Laura Linney - Ozark Zendaya - Euphoria Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series Anthony Carrigan - Barry Bill Hader - Barry Steve Martin - Only Murders In The Building Martin Short - Only Murders In The Building Jeremy Allen White - The Bear - WINNER Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series Christina Applegate - Dead To Me Rachel Brosnahan - The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Quinta Brunson - Abbott Elementary Jenna Ortega - Wednesday Jean Smart - Hacks - WINNER Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series Better Call Saul The Crown Ozark Severance The White Lotus - WINNER Bella: The White Lotus earned Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series Abbott Elementary - WINNER Barry The Bear Hacks Only Murders In The Building Outstanding Action Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series Andor The Boys House Of The Dragon The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Stranger Things - WINNER Advertisement

Taron, who's nominated for
Austin Butler looked dapper on Sunday when he attended the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards wearing a tailored burgundy tuxedo.

The 31-year-old actor was joined by Elvis director Baz Luhrmann, 60, and his wife Catherine Martin  who accompanied Butler to the 2023 Producers Guild Awards in LA.

Butler's dirty blonde hair was styled up and his handsome face sported some clean-cut stubble.

Hollywood's new leading man arrived without his girlfriend, supermodel-turned-actress Kaia Gerber.

He hobnobbed with other A-list stars inside the Fairmont Century Plaza, posing alongside fellow nominees Julia Garner, Ana De Armas and Taron Egerton.

Burgundy best: Austin Butler, 31, looked dapper on Sunday when he attended the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards wearing a tailored burgundy tuxedo. The Elvis star's burgundy tuxedo featured a retro cut that highlighted Austin's tall, lean figure

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

The Elvis star's burgundy tuxedo featured a retro cut that highlighted Austin's tall, lean figure.

Baz, who hails from Sydney, Australia, was equally stylish in his classic black suit while his spouse Catherine complemented his look in a stunning black blazer and fitted pants.

Inside the event, Butler posed for photos with Julia Garner, who was nominated for her acclaimed turn in Inventing Anna, and Ana De Armas, who was nominated for her performance as Marilyn Monroe in Blonde.

Garner matched Butler in her gorgeous dark red gown that featured a sheer neckline embellished with crystals, while the De Armas oozed glamour in a plunging silver dress.

Austin went on to make a dashing duo with Taron Egerton, who looked handsome in a white tuxedo.

Egerton was nominated in the category of Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for his performance in Black Bird, ultimately losing out to Sam Elliott.

Butler's lauded turn as Elvis earned him a nomination in the category of Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role.

He faces stiff competition from Brendan Fraser in The Whale, who recently took home the Critics' Choice Award for Best Actor.

Director and star: The star was joined by Elvis director Baz Luhrmann, 60, and his wife Catherine Martin, who both looked smart in classic black looks

Leading ladies: Inside the event, Butler posed for photos with Julia Garner, 29, who was nominated for her acclaimed turn in Inventing Anna, and Ana De Armas, 34, who was nominated for her performance as Marilyn Monroe in Blonde

Dapper duo: Austin went on to make a dashing duo with Taron Egerton, 33, who looked handsome in a white tuxedo

Leading men: Egerton was nominated in the category of Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for his performance in Black Bird, ultimately losing out to Sam Elliott

Handsome hair: Butler's dirty blonde hair was styled up and his handsome face sported some clean-cut stubble

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards.

The Banshees Of Inisherin earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood by winning for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, losing out to co-star Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent in the film.

Angela Bassett earned a nomination for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category.

Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

The event also honored acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

The 76-year-old actress who exclaimed, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' when she won her second Oscar for Best Actress in 1984's Places in the Heart, is no stranger to Hollywood honors.

Field has won Best Actress twice as she also scored for 1984's Places In The Heart.
Ana de Armas turned heads as she made a glamorous arrival donning a plunging embroidered dress as she attended the 29th Annual SAG Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The Knives Out star, 34, flaunted her stunning physique as she joined other talented stars on the red carpet ahead of the special ceremony.

The beauty received a SAG nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for her performance as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix's fictional biopic, Blonde, which received mixed reviews from critics and audiences.

The actress, who recently opened up about tackling the role to Vanity Fair, has also garnered an Oscar nod for Best Actress.

The annual event welcomes top Hollywood stars as it recognizes the best in both television and film, and also honored acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades.

Glamorous: Ana de Armas, 34, was elegant wearing a plunging gown as she attended the 29th Annual SAG Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

On the red carpet, Ana wowed in a figure-hugging dress that was made of a nude-colored fabric which was then overlaid with a darker, embroidered pattern that sparkled under the bright lights.

The neckline contained a deep, V-neck cut that fell down towards her midriff, while her upper waist was accentuated with a strip of black fabric.

The gown was held up with two thin straps on each shoulder, while large, black velvet bows were added just underneath for a stylish flare.

The hem of the ensemble flowed down past her ankles, concealing the shoes she had donned to pair with the dress, and pooled into a short train behind her.

The talented star, who was born in Cuba, parted her voluminous locks in the middle and swept her hair back into a ponytail, allowing a few, curly strands to border the sides of her face.

She kept her accessories minimalistic for the evening in order to allow the gown to be the main focal point, and slipped on a rhinestone-covered bracelet on her left wrist.

Ana also added a pair of small, dangly earrings for an elegant touch to her eye-catching look.

Her makeup was classically done for the event, and comprised of a layer of black mascara along with a bronze, smoky shadow around her eyes.

Elegant: The actress wowed in a figure-hugging dress that was made of a nude-colored fabric which was then overlaid with a shimmering, embroidered pattern that sparkled under the bright lights

Stunning: The neckline contained a deep, V-neck cut, while her upper waist was accentuated with a strip of black fabric

A light, peach-colored blush was added onto her cheekbones, while a nude-colored satin tint was worn on her lips.

Ana flashed a cheerful smile as she paused for a quick photo session before entering the Fairmont Century Plaza where the award show was held.

While on the red carpet, the SAG-nominated star opened up about her leading performance in Blonde when talking to Extra.

While discussing saying goodbye to the role, the beauty expressed, 'It wasnt a matter of getting out of character. I thought it was more of, I missed her.'

She further added, 'I missed it, like the whole process of it. As difficult as it was and very emotional, it was also a very beautiful process. I missed that environment and being so creative.'

During a recent interview with Vanity Fair published earlier this month, de Armas also talked about 'relating' to Monroe.

'If you put Marilyn Monroe 'the movie star' aside, shes just an actress trying to navigate life and this system, which is so hard to navigate for anybody.'

Ana further explained, 'I truly thought it was going to do justice to a more dimensional human being, because I wouldnt want to be remembered just for one thing. I am more than just an actress on the cover of a magazine.'

Eye-catching: The talented star, who was born in Cuba, parted her voluminous locks in the middle and swept her hair back into a ponytail, allowing a few, curly strands to border the sides of her face

Keeping it classy: Her makeup was classically done for the event, and comprised of a layer of black mascara along with a bronze, smoky shadow around her eyes

Excited: Ana flashed a cheerful smile as she paused for a quick photo session before entering the Fairmont Century Plaza where the awards show was held

When discussing the topic if movie stars such as Marilyn still exist, she admitted, 'I feel like the new generations dont have that concept, because of social media. There is so much information out there and oversharing.'

'The concept of a movie star is someone untouchable you only see onscreen. That mystery is gone. For the most part, weve done that to ourselvesnobodys keeping anything from anyone anymore,' the beauty added.

Ana was nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role, with Michelle Yeoh winning the honor.

The 29th SAG Awards were held at the Fairmont Century Plaza, and also broadcasted live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Unlike other award ceremonies, such as the NAACP Image Awards and the Oscars, the Screen Actors Guild Awards has not had a host for three years now, with the last hosts being Dan and Eugene Levy in 2020.

Recognition: The beauty has received a SAG nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role for her performance as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix's fictional biopic, Blonde
Zendaya had a quick wardrobe change during the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

While presenting the award for outstanding performance by a female actor in a miniseries or television movie alongside Paul Mescal, 27, the Euphoria actress, 26, donned a different dress than the one she wore on the red carpet.

Zendaya swapped her pale pink romantic Valentino gown for an art deco Armani Prive dress with a front cut-out featuring pale blue, pink and black hues.

Fans also noted an awkward exchange between the co-presenters as they made their way up the stage.

Zendaya appeared to swerve Mescal's offer of a gentlemanly arm, brushing it off and walking up the stairs by herself after declining the actor's attempt to escort her, which left him fumbling over his words later as they read from a teleprompter.

Second look: Zendaya had a quick wardrobe change during the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday, as she took to the stage to present alongside Paul Mescal, 27

Art deco: Zendaya swapped her pale pink romantic Valentino gown for an art deco Armani Prive dress with a front cut-out featuring pale blue, pink and black hues; Pictured with Jenna Ortega

Romantic: Earlier in the night the beauty graced the red carpet in a romantic pale pink Valentino rose-adorned gown

Zendaya kept her second look simple with no bracelets or rings, but made up for it with a spectacular sparkling Bulgari choker with a dark stone at the center.

Earlier in the night she kicked off the red carpet in style, arriving in a strapless pink gown featuring three-dimensional flowers embellished on the skirt.

The actress showcased her slim figure in the striking Valentino number covered in varying sizes of fabric roses in the same hue.

Zendaya's cotton candy colored number was paired with a statement diamond necklace that included emerald, ruby and Amethyst gemstones.

The design was custom made for her by creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli and she was styled by Law Roach.

She styled her short tresses in waves, channeling old Hollywood stars.

Fans watching the show took online to express their amusement after noticing the awkward moment between Zendaya and Mescal.

As they walked on stage together, Mescal seemed to hold out his hand in what seemed to be an attempt to help Zendaya up the stage.

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

Awkward: Fans also noted an awkward exchange between the co-presenters as they made their way up the stage

Swerved: Zendaya appeared to swerve Mescal's offer of a gentlemanly arm, brushing it off and walking up the stairs by herself after declining the actor's attempt to escort her

Helping hand: As they walked on stage together, Mescal seemed to hold out his hand in what seemed to be an attempt to help Zendaya up the stage

No assistance needed: However, she did not seem too receptive to the gentlemanly offer, and continued on unassisted

Nervous: The exchange left Mescal fumbling over his words while presenting the award for outstanding performance by a female actor in a miniseries or television movie

Amused: Fans watching the show took online to express their amusement after noticing the awkward moment between Zendaya and Mescal

Funny: One Tweeted 'Not Zendaya swerving Paul Mescals hand'

Nervous and giggling: 'Zendaya got Paul mescal nervous and giggling, he's just like me,' another commentator added

The Zendaya effect: 'I relate to Paul Mescal cause I too would be nervous to be next to zendaya'

Fell to the floor: 'Paul Mescal and Zendaya.. I actually fell to the floor'

Embarrassed: 'Why'd Zendaya not take Paul Mescal's hand???? LMAO I feel so embarrassed fo him,' another fan added

Protective fans: 'Get Paul Mescal away from Zendaya!! Protect her!' yet another fan wrote

Meme: There were also plenty of meme reactions to the hilarious situation

Winner: The duo presented Jessica Chastain with the Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series award for George & Tammy

However, she did not seem too receptive to the gentlemanly offer, and continued on unassisted.

'Paul Mescal trying to help Zendaya up the stairs and she said nah,' one Twitter user wrote in amusement.

Another one Tweeted 'Not Zendaya swerving Paul Mescals hand.'

Someone else wrote 'Paul Mescal tried to escort Zendaya and she wasnt into it.'

'Zendaya got Paul mescal nervous and giggling, he's just like me,' another commentator added.

'I relate to Paul Mescal cause I too would be nervous to be next to zendaya,' another fan added.

Zendaya was nominated for outstanding performance by a female actor in a drama series for her role in Euphoria, but lost out to The White Lotus' Jennifer Coolidge.

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards took place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and were broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

Beauties! She was pictured mingling with Jenna Ortega at the event

Elegant: Zendaya kept her second look simple with no bracelets or rings, but made up for it with a spectacular sparkling Bulgari choker with a dark stone at the center

With Austin: She was seen at the event with Elvis star Austin Butler, who looked handsome in a maroon suit

Dapper: She also posed for a snap with actor Andrew Garfield

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

The event honored acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

Aside from Zendaya and Mescal other presenters included Ariana DeBose, hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap, as well as Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.

Hollywood glamour: Zendaya kicked off the red carpet in style, showcasing her slim figure in the spectacular number

A beauty: She styled her short tresses in waves, channeling old Hollywood stars

What a vision! Zendaya sported a diamond bracelet, necklace and ring for a sparkling touch to her dreamy look
Sam Elliott was victorious at the 2023 SAG Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday as he collected the best male actor in a television movie or limited series for his work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883.

'I'm not even sure I should be standing up here, but I'll get used to it,' the veteran actor, 78, said in his acceptance speech for his work as Shea Brennan on the series - but the star's win was slammed by fans due to his 2022 comments about film, The Power of the Dog and its 'allusions to homosexuality.'

The Sacramento, California-born star - who beat Dahmer star Evan Peters to the gong - then pulled out a piece of paper and read a speech, saying, 'I wonder if anybody else is gonna read anything tonight. I do this because I didn't expect to be up here. I only have 43 seconds to say this and I've already wasted a half of that.'

Elliott said, 'What can I say in 45 seconds, after just receiving the most meaningful acknowledgement of my 55-year career from a group of my peers? Many of whom I don't even know, or know only from afar as a fan who respects their work. Not time to say enough.

'But I can say thank you, and I can tell you that I'm honored and grateful to be in your company, whether in this audience or at home. After seeing the work of my fellow nominees, I'm not sure I should be standing up here, but I'm sure I'll get over that.'

The latest: Sam Elliott was victorious at the 2023 SAG Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday as he collected the best male actor in a television movie or limited series for his work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883

Veteran actor Sam Elliott (above), whose career is engrained in the western genre, called Jane Campion's Power of the Dog a 'piece of s**t' and said he took personal offense to its critique of the West through the film's main character, a repressed gay man

Some viewers were surprised that Elliott bested Evan Peters, who was nominated for his work on Dahmer  Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

Elliott said that he was going to 'treasure' the award because it comes from his brothers and sisters from SAG-AFTRA.

He added: 'I'll treasure it as a constant reminder of 1883 and what a gift it was for all of us on both sides of the camera.'

Addressing his costars on the Taylor Sheridan-created series, Elliott said, 'There's a piece of this for all of you - not only for who you are but your beautiful work that helped me find the way - I love you all for that.'

With the win, Elliott defeated a loaded field of nominees in the category, including Evan Peters (Dahmer  Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story), Steve Carell (The Patient), Taron Egerton (Black Bird)and Paul Walter Hauser (Black Bird).

Elliott's win garnered backlash on on social media, with one fan penning: 'remember when sam elliott was being homophobic about brokeback mountain and then again with power of the dog.'

One user added, 'Still havent forgotten Sams comments about Power of the Dog' while a second typed: 'Folks have forgotten but Sam Elliott showed his true homophobic colors by dissing The Power of the Dog so bad last year.'

Others wrote that Peters should have captured the award for his role as the notorious serial killer Dahmer.

Said one user: 'Let me just say that evan peters deserved to win, HOWEVER that doesn't mean that we're gonna hate on sam elliott bc he's a great actor TOO. direct your anger at the SAG awards, not at him.'

Elliott delivered an emotional speech with presenters Jenna Ortega and Aubrey Plaza in the background

Oh dear: The star's win was slammed by fans due to his 2022 comments about film, The Power of the Dog and its 'allusions to homosexuality.

Another said: 'Im sorry EVAN PETERS LOST??? To Sam Elliott??? What is happening!!'

One user said, 'Sam Elliott over Evan Peters and Paul Walter Hauser? Yo, Im about to turn this s*** off. #SAGAwards

Some were in favor of Elliott's win, as one user said, 'Sam Elliott and the 1883 cast should win every award over the sick Jeffrey Dahmer documentary from Netflix #SAGAwards.'

Elliott had been embroiled in controversy after a February 28, 2022 appearance on the WTF podcast with Marc Maron, where he held little back about his feelings for the film, a Western drama starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst and Jesse Plemons.

Elliott's win garnered backlash on on social media, with one fan penning: 'remember when sam elliott was being homophobic about brokeback mountain and then again with power of the dog.'

Reaction: Others were furious that Elliot beat out Evan Peters

Elliott called the motion picture a 'piece of s***' with 'allusions of homosexuality,' adding that the cowboy characters in the movie, 'running around in chaps and no shirts,' were akin to Chippendales dancers who 'wear bow ties and not much else.'

Elliott also questioned how filmmaker Jane Campion - who won the Best Achievement in Directing Oscar for the movie - was qualified to make a movie in the genre.

'What the f*** does this woman from down there know about the American West?' said Elliott, who plays Civil War veteran Shea Brennan in the Yellowstone prequel 1883.

Campion, 67, fired back at Elliott in a chat with Deadline March 12 in Los Angeles, telling the outlet that the actor 'really hit the trifecta of misogyny and xenophobia and homophobia' with his remarks about her film.

'I think its really unfortunate and sad for him,' Campion told the outlet. 'I dont like that. I think he was being a little bit of a b-*-*-*-h. Plus hes not a cowboy, hes an actor.'

Elliott also questioned how filmmaker Jane Campion - who won the Best Achievement in Directing Oscar for the movie - was qualified to make a movie in the Western genre

The Oscar nominated film stars Benedict Cumberbatch, above, playing a closeted gay man. Elliot said Cumberbatch spent too much of the movie shirtless and wearing chaps

Elliott issued a public apology while appearing at Deadlines Contenders TV event April 10, saying, 'I told the WTF podcaster that I thought Jane Campion was a brilliant director, and I want to apologize to the cast of The Power of the Dog, brilliant actors all. And in particular Benedict Cumberbatch. I can only say that Im sorry and I am. I am.'

The Oscar-nominated performer said at the event that the film 'struck a chord with' him and he wanted to speak with Maron about his feelings on it, but 'wasnt very articulate about' how he went about it.

'I didnt articulate it very well,' Elliott said. 'And I said some things that hurt people and I feel terrible about that. The gay community has been incredible to me my entire career.

'And I mean my entire career, from before I got started in this town. Friends on every level and every job description up until today. Im sorry I hurt any of those friends and someone that I loved. And anyone else by the words that I used.'
A rendered image of LG Household & Health Care's temporary tattoo printing device, IMPRINTU, above, in green, and Prinker Korea's tattoo printing device, below, in black. Yonhap



Prinker Korea, a Korean startup, claimed Monday that LG Household Health Care has stolen the idea of its customized tattoo printing device, called Prinker M, and created a copycat product.



Prinker said LG HH applied for a design patent under the name of "tattoo printer" in September 2020 after the two signed a nondisclosure agreement for a potential business partnership in June 2019.



The startup claimed LG HH's portable temporary tattoo printer, called IMPRINTU, shares various similarities in terms of concept, design and size with Prinker M, noting LG HH had purchased Prinker's devices.



LG HH admitted to having purchased Prinker's products but said it was part of a "routine market assessment" activity before entering into a new market.



"LG Household Health Care's portable temporary tattoo printer, set to be revealed at the Mobile World Congress this week, is another example of a large conglomerate copying the concept, technology and the idea created by a smaller startup," Prinker said in a statement posted on its website on Monday.



The allegations, if verified, would be the latest case of an idea theft dispute between a small firm and a large conglomerate in Korea.



Prinker said its portable tattoo printer, which can print various designs on human skin by using a mobile app, is available in about 80 countries, including the United States, France and Germany.



In January, French cosmetics giant L'Oreal decided to invest in Prinker, the startup said, without giving any details on the value of the investment.



Prinker said it has reported the case to the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and plans to take legal actions against LG HH for an alleged violation of the unfair competition prevention act.



LG HH refuted Prinker's accusations, saying it has neither received any materials related to Prinker's technology nor had any type of communication  telephone conversations, emails and meetings  with the startup after signing the nondisclosure agreement in June 2019.



LG HH also dismissed claims the tattoo printer concept is "exclusive" to Prinker, given Hewlett-Packard Company had already patented the idea back in 1999.



"LG HH has been careful to avoid patents already existing in the market since the early development stages of IMPRINTU. We are a runner-up in the market and have been working with companies such as LG Electronics, HP and others since 2019," the beauty giant of LG Group said.



A slew of idea theft disputes between startups and large conglomerates have been brewing in Korea.



In a recent case, Algocare, a local health care startup, raised suspicions last month that Lotte Group's healthcare affiliate copied key features of its health supplement dispenser machine. Similarly, an edu-tech startup had accused VISANG Education, a major education content maker, for copying the design and functions of a test prep software it developed.



Last month, the Ministry of SMEs and Startups said it will take tougher actions against conglomerates stealing technology owned by small and medium-sized enterprises. (Yonhap)


Jessica Chastain is getting compared to Jennifer Lawrence, after briefly tripping over her dress on her way to accept the SAG Award for Best Female Actor in a TV Movie or Miniseries.

Following her nasty tumble up the steps, the 45-year-old actress received some much-needed assistance from Irish actor Paul Mescal and a man in the front row, who also rushed to her aid.

Almost immediately, Twitter users were quick to comment about the similarity between her fall and Lawrence's infamous nosedive at the Academy Awards back in 2013.

Once she was back on her feet, the Oscar winner made a speedy recovery and went on to deliver an inspirational speech, honoring the late Philip Seymour Hoffman.

During her speech, the mother-of-two, who scooped up the same award at last year's ceremony, was honored for her role as Tammy Wynette in George and Tammy.

As she accepted the trophy, the performer offered a motivational message to aspiring and struggling actors as she said: 'I'm doing a show right now in New York, I'm doing A Doll's House and every day after the show I get to meet people at the stage door and I meet a lot of actors, who tell me their stories and it reminds me of when I was in college.'

Oh no! Following her nasty tumble up the steps, the 45-year-old actress received a hand up from Irish actor Paul Mescal and a man in the front row, who rushed to her aid

Oh no: Jessica Chastain is getting compared to Jennifer Lawrence, after briefly tripping over her dress on her way to accept a SAG Award for Best Female Actor in a TV Movie or Miniseries

Drawing comparison: Social media users were quick to compare the fall to the one Lawrence had back in 2013 at the Oscars (seen above)

'Philip Seymour Hoffman came to speak to my class and I told all his frustrating stories about auditions and he encouraged us to keep going even when we thought no one was watching us,' she continued. 'And he said at the end of the talk, 'I look forward to working with each of you'. It really shocked me because it was like he brought it into being. A few years later it came true and I had the opportunity to do a play with him.'

'I'm telling this story right now because it reminds me of how powerful our mind is and what our thoughts can do, so I want to tell everyone who might be struggling at home, to all the actors I get to meet, 'Keep going, you're one job away. I look forward to working with you, I'll see you on set and I love you,' Chastain told viewers.

Jessica paid tribute to her fellow nominees, Emily Blunt (The English), Julia Garner (Inventing Anna), Niecy Nash Betts (Dahmer - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story), and Amanda Seyfried (The Dropout) before pledging to share her award with co-star Michael Shannon.

She said: 'Thank you so much to the Screen Actors Guild Awards, I just have to recognise my fellow nominees -Amanda, Emily, Julia, Niecy - I have seen all of your performances and I am in awe of you and your talent, they're amazing...I share this with Michael Shannon, who I believe is one of our greatest working actors.'

'It was a dream collaboration from day one and I wouldn't have got to day two without his support,' she concluded.

She didn't seem too fazed by her fall as she explained that she was momentarily 'trapped' in her gown before some 'very nice men' helped her up.

'I am the one who never expects this is going to happen,' she told ET after accepting the win. 'Yeah, I fell on the stairs, that's good because some people didn't know that I did.'

Chastain wore a voluminous fuchsia gown, adorned with vertical ruffles down the front, to the star-studded ceremony.

For the occasion, she accessorized her floor-length dress from Zuhair Murad, which features a plunging neckline, a hot pink lipstick and colorful statement earrings.

Ouch: Despite the fall, she didn't miss a beat as she went on to collect her trophy

All okay! Jessica flashed a beaming smile to reassure the audience that she was okay

Back on her feet: The Oscar winner made a speedy recovery as she quickly picked herself up and went on to deliver a moving speech, honoring the late Philip Seymour Hoffman

A stumble: Almost immediately, Twitter users were quick to remark at the similarity between her fall and Lawrence's nosedive at the Academy Award back in 2013

Funny: Some poked fun at the star as they quipped that Chastain was honoring Jennifer Lawrence's infamous fall

'Thrilled with the small amount of steps at the #SAGAwards I've spent 70% of my life worrying about actresses falling up stairs. UPDATE: 10 seconds after I tweeted this Jessica Chastain fell up the stairs. I blame me,' another wrote

'Jessica Chastain fell up the stairs,' a third social media user wrote

Her nearly waist-length red tresses cascaded down her back in pin-straight strands.

Jessica's makeup artist Kristofer Buckle used products from Charlotte Tilbury to achieve the actress's look for the evening - which was 'inspired by a punk princess', he revealed.

'Today's look was inspired by a punk princess, matching her lips to her Gucci gown, and choosing a fierce black winged liner on her upper lid,' he revealed - explaining that he used the Charlotte Tilbury Feline Flick in Panther to get that perfect wing on her eyes, while her lip color was created using the K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Velvet Underground.

'I also added the new Hollywood Glow Glide Highlighter in Moonlit Glow to her shoulders and decolletage,' Kristofer added, while the newly-launched Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand accentuated the actress's natural glow.

The Molly's Game is nominated for Showtime's miniseries about George Jones and Tammy Wynette, which aired its finale episode in December.

The show reunited her and Michael Shannon, who she starred with in the 2011 psychological thriller Take Shelter.

The show follows Tammy and George as they thunder through drugs, fights and even - in her case - shock therapy.

The duo had a dramatic and explosive marriage from 1969 to 1975, scarred by problems including his galloping alcoholism.

Looking good! For the occasion, she accessorized her floor-length dress from Zuhair Murad, which features a plunging neckline, a hot pink lipstick and colorful statement earrings
Britt Lower glittered while walking the red carpet at the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The 37-year-old actress donned a sheer, gold gown which showed off her chest and long legs.

A silver belt wrapped around her waist while matching silver fabric snaked its way to the bottom of her skirt.

Her bright red hair was pulled up messily behind her head and thick stands of it covered her pale forehead.

She flashed a huge, toothy grin, and she posed on the red carpet with her arms akimbo.

Slightly sheer: Britt Lower glittered while walking the red carpet at the Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday

While she was not nominated for an individual award at the event, her hit television show Severance received two nominations.

Severance, an AppleTV+ show, was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series and Male Actor in a Drama Series (Adam Scott).

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

Silver: A silver belt wrapped around her waist while matching silver fabric snaked its way to the bottom of her skirt

Auburn locks: Her bright red hair was pulled up messily behind her head and thick stands of it covered her pale forehead

Nominations: While she was not nominated for an individual award at the event, her hit television show Severance received two nominations (L to R: Dichen Lachman, Michael Chernus, Jen Tullock, Tramell Tillman, Britt Lower and Zach Cherry)

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Two nominations: Severance, an AppleTV+ show, was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series and Male Actor in a Drama Series (Adam Scott)

Popular awards show: The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix 's YouTube channel

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category, while Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.
Longtime Hollywood leading man Jeff Bridges joined the A-list crowd at the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles after being nominated for Outstanding Performance By A Male Actor In A Drama Series for his role in the FX series The Old Man.

Making his grand arrival with the love of his life, wife Susan Geston by his side, Bridges looked handsome in a black three-piece suit that he paired with a white dress shirt and black bowtie.

He walked along the red carpet, as photographers snapped away, in black shoes, and his salt-and-pepper hair slicked back off his face and a full beard and mustache combination.

Longtime loves: Jeff Bridges, 73, and wife Susan Geston, 69, were all loved up when they attended the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Sunday

Lovebirds: The couple showed off their enduring love while on the red carpet ahead of the ceremony where the leading man was up for Outstanding Performance By A Male Actor In A Drama Series for his role in the FX series The Old Man

Scary: The longtime leading man had to deal with two health scares during shoot for The Old Man: COVID-19 and a cancer diagnosis and treatments, which has since gone into remission

The son of legendary late actor Lloyd Bridges had one of his arm lovingly around his wife's shoulders or back much of their time on the red carpet.

Geston, who turns 70 in 2023, showed off her style in what appeared to be a black jumpsuit, or ensemble, with subtle gray stripes that went up and down the outfit.

She also added a gold and black-patterned, blazer-like jacket without lapels, along with a pair of golden floral, open-toe flats, and her blonde locks styled long down her back, with the exception of her hair in the front that was pulled back off her face.

The couple, who will be celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary in June, are the proud parents to three daughters: Isabelle, 41, Jessica and Haley, 37.

Created by Jonathan E. Steinberg and Robert Levine, The Old Man is based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Thomas Perry.

During the shoot for series, production started and stopped twice - once due to the coronavirus pandemic and once to Bridges' health battles, that included contracting COVID-19 and his lymphoma diagnosis and treatments.

Bridges shared with People in May 2022 that the cancer has been in remission since September 2021, which allowed him to help promote season one of The Old Man.

'I was pretty close to dying. The doctors kept telling me, "Jeff, youve got to fight. You're not fighting." I was in surrender mode. I was ready to go. I was dancing with my mortality,' the Crazy Heart star told the publication.

Drama-thriller: Bridges plays Dan Chase, a former CIA operative who's been living off-the-grid in Vermont for 30 years, who then finds himself on the run in The Old Man, which has been renewed for a second season

Season one of The Old Man, consisting of seven episodes, ended up premiering on FX on June 16, 2022.

Not long after its debut the thriller-drama series was renewed for a second season.

Bridges plays Dan Chase, a former CIA operative who's been living off-the-grid in Vermont for 30 years. After killing an intruder who breaks into his home, Chase goes into hiding, and proceeds to rent a room from Zoe McDonald, played by Amy Brenneman, who becomes his forced partner while on the run.

Assistant Director for Counterintelligence Harold Harper, portrayed by John Lithgow, ends up being called in to apprehend Chase because of their complicated past during the SovietAfghan War.

Along with Bridges, Brenneman and Lithgow, the cast also include E. J. Bonilla, Bill Heck, Leem Lubany, Alia Shawkat and Gbenga Akinnagbe. among others with recurring roles.

Puzzled: Michelle Yeoh shot a perplexed expression towards Jeff as he embraced her after she received an award

Laughter: The actress then broke out into a chuckle as he kept his arm around her waist

Pals: Patricia Arquette and Jeff appeared to be in high spirits as they posed together

Happy: Fran Drescher shot a dazzling smile as she was later joined by Jeff too

Previously, Bridges won one a SAG Award for Outstanding Leading Actor In A Motion Picture for his role as a weathered country music star in the acclaimed drama film Crazy Heart (2009), out of his four previous noms.

The SAG's, honoring the best achievements in film and television performances for the year 2022, will stream live and exclusively on Netflix's YouTube channel at 8:00 p.m. / 5:00 p.m., making it the first awards show to be broadcast entirely online, according to Town & Country.

Of all the major industry awards shows dedicated to actors, only the SAG Awards are selected entirely by performers peers in SAG-AFTRA, with more than 122,000 eligible voters.

Gang: He soon posed for a shot with Aubrey Plaza and a pal, who looked dapper in a black suit

Chatting: Jeff and his wife Susan appeared to be in deep conversation with Ted Sarandos

Old pals: Sam Elliot shook hands with Jeff during the ceremony
Channel 10's parent company, American media giant Paramount Global, has denied rumours it is considering shutting down the network.

Paramount's president and chief executive of international markets, Pam Kaufman, told The Sydney Morning Herald there are no plans to close Ten.

'Of course not. Not only are we not shutting down, but we are excited, and we're investing,' Ms Kaufman said.

'This is a market where our strategy is strong, and it's really working.'

Paramount Global, previously known as ViacomCBS, paid $250million for the Australian TV station just five years ago.

Channel 10's parent company, American media giant Paramount Global, has denied rumours it is considering shutting down the network. (Pictured: The Bachelor host Osher Gunsberg)

The Australian was first to report on the possibility of a sale, citing sources as saying Paramount hoped to offload 10 in the next two years.

Channel 10 was bought out by ViacomCBS in 2017.

The conglomerate, whose diverse interests include motion pictures, book publishing and amusement parks, rebranded as Paramount Global in February last year.

Paramount's president and chief executive of international markets, Pam Kaufman, told The Sydney Morning Herald there are no plans to close Ten. (Pictured: the old Channel 10 logo as seen above its Pyrmont headquarters on June 13, 2017)

It comes after Paramount sacked a number of local executives, including the head of its streaming division.

Vice president of streaming Liz Baldwin, vice president of operations Frank Filosi and at least seven other senior employees were let go.

The redundancies were part of a move towards a more global approach to broadcast content, reports the Australian Financial Review.

Ten's chief content officer Beverley McGarvey will become head of Paramount+ in Australia, while commercial officer Jarrod Villani will be Australia's regional lead.
My Kitchen Rules stars Carly Saunders and Tresne Middleton have been dealt a fresh blow after the tragic death of their 20-month-old daughter Poppy Grace last week.

The couple revealed their car was broken into during an attempted home invasion, which was caught on camera via their property's security system.

The incident took place in the early hours of Friday morning, not long after Poppy was buried at the nearby Pettigrew funeral home on Thursday afternoon.

Carly and Tresne posted CCTV footage of the attempted robbery on Instagram on Sunday night, and said the incident made them 'feel really unsafe' in their own home at a time when they were already grieving the loss of their child.

The alleged thief broke into their yard and took money from their car, but failed to get inside their home, the pair said.

My Kitchen Rules stars Carly Saunders and Tresne Middleton have been dealt a fresh blow after the tragic death of their 20-month-old daughter Poppy Grace last week

'Hello, darlings. We've only just dragged ourselves from bed and we really want to thank you all for your incredible kindness after Poppy's special send-off on Thursday. We love you all so so much,' their post began.

'Unfortunately on the night/morning after at 3:30am our car was broken into and a young man attempted to come into our house.

'He only took money from our car but we are feeling sick that this person entered our space.

'After sleeping for months in hospital with plenty of nurses/family around, we just feel really unsafe.'

Carly and Tresne have filed a police report, but shared the footage publicly to help identify the alleged thief.

The couple revealed their car was broken into during an attempted home invasion, which was caught on camera via their property's security system

The incident took place in the early hours of Friday morning, not long after Poppy was buried at the nearby Pettigrew funeral home on Thursday afternoon

Carly and Tresne posted CCTV footage of the attempted robbery on Instagram on Sunday night, and said the incident made them 'feel really unsafe' in their own home at a time when they were already grieving their child

'We've filed this report with the police, but if you could share this post so we might be able to find this young man we would be so grateful. Big love and thanks to you all,' they concluded.

The couple's followers were shocked by the footage.

'This is awful. You both have already been through absolute agony and I cannot believe this person has the decency to even do this. I am sorry. It's a yucky feeling having your space intruded. Sharing this now,' one fan wrote.

'You don't deserve this! I hope he is caught and pays the price,' another added.

'This is disgusting! What low-lives. I'm lost for words. You don't need this on top of everything. I hope by everyone sharing, these people are found and dealt with. Been thinking of you both all week,' a third said.

The couple's followers were shocked by the footage

Carly and Tresne announced their baby daughter's death last week.

The couple, who had been documenting their journey raising a sick child, told their Instagram followers Poppy had lost her battle with leukemia.

The posted a photo of their child on their joint account, and wrote: 'This morning we lost our precious baby Poppy Grace.

'True to form she fought tooth and nail until her final breath. Her leukaemia took over and at her last bloods the blasts were 787,000. That fighting spirit was so prominent right throughout her battle and it was so evident in the last four traumatic days.

'Poppy showed us what it is to be grateful and happy with whatever cards you are dealt.

'She made the most of her time on Earth, dancing, giggling and smiling right until days from the end. She was loving and funny and nurturing. She was clever and empathetic.

'She had a heart of gold and she shone so brightly, oozing joy. We felt honoured to be her mums and we didnt take a second of that for granted, not a second.

'She taught us so very much in her short 20 months and we have never experienced a love as all encompassing.'

The mothers said they were 'so sorry' to share the news with their followers, some of whom had donated blood, money and gifts to their daughter, and others who were living with leukaemia.

Carly and Tresne set up a Lifeblood donation group in Poppy's name, where their followers can come together to donate blood and hopefully help sick adults and children like Poppy.

'We will rise up again for Poppy. We don't know what that looks like yet - we are lost and our purpose is gone.

'But we'll be back soon and we will live life to the fullest in her honour. There is good to be done from the experiences we have had, there is lots to share and many ways we can make the lives of oncology kids and their parents better.

'Until then we will rest so we can rise up for our Poppy, forever 20 months old.'

Donation bookings can be made on the Lifeblood website or by phoning 13 14 95.
Jessica Chastain honored the late Philip Seymour Hoffman while giving her acceptance speech at the 29th Screen Actors Guild on Sunday.

The 45-year-old actress - who tripped over her dress as she ascended the stage - scooped the Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role award for her role in George And Tammy and shared what the late star had previously told her.

She recalled the time studying at Juilliard School and said Hoffman - who died in 2014 at age 46 from a drug overdose - spoke in one of her classes.

Chastain said he shared his experience with auditions and motivated the class of aspiring actors to keep persevering in the face of rejections.

'When I was in college, Philip Seymour Hoffman came to speak to my class and told us all his frustrating stories about auditions,' she said. 'And he encouraged us to keep going even when we thought no one was watching us.'

Inspirational speech: Jessica Chastain, 45, honored the late Philip Seymour Hoffman while giving her acceptance speech at the 29th Screen Actors Guild on Sunday

Former costars: Chastain and Hoffman - who passed away in 2014 at the age of 46 - previously worked together in off-Broadway play Othello in 2019

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

She continued: 'He said at the end of the talk, "I look forward to working with each of you."

'It really shocked me, because it was like he brought it into being,' she said. 'A few years later, it came true, and I had the opportunity to do a play with him.'

'I'm telling this story right now, because it reminds me of how powerful our mind is and what our thoughts can do, so I want to tell everyone who might be struggling at home - to all the actors I get to meet,' she said. 'Keep going. You're one job away. I look forward to working with you. I'll see you on set and I love you.'

Chastain and Hoffman previously worked together in off-Broadway play Othello in 2019.

During her acceptance speech, she also named and recognized her fellow nominees in the same category: The English star Emily Blunt; Inventing Anna's Julia Garner; Dahmer - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story's Niecy Nash-Betts; and The Dropout's Amanda Seyfried.

'Thank you so much to the Screen Actors Guild Awards,' she said. 'I just have to recognize my fellow nominees - Amanda, Emily, Julia, Niecy.

'I have seen all of your performances, and I am in awe of you and your talent,' she continued. 'They're amazing.'

Then, she goes on to honor actor Michael Shannon, 48, who stars opposite her in George And Tammy: 'I share this with Michael Shannon - who I believe is one of our greatest working actors,' she said. 'It was a dream collaboration from day one, and I wouldn't have got to day two without his support.'

Outstanding: The actress scooped the Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role award for her role in George And Tammy and shared what the late star had previously told her

Motivational: 'When I was in college, Philip Seymour Hoffman came to speak to my class and told us all his frustrating stories about auditions,' she said. 'And he encouraged us to keep going even when we thought no one was watching us.'

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The Banshees Of Inisherin and Everything Everywhere All At Once were among the most nominated feature films.

Among the television nominees, Better Call Saul and Ozark scored several nods.

The Banshees Of Inisherin, Martin McDonagh's film about two Irish men's fractured friendship among that country's civil war, earned a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, along with individual nods for Colin Farrell in the lead male actor category and Brendan Gleeson and Barry Keoghan in the supporting male category.

Kerry Condon was also nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Honored: The Banshees Of Inisherin (pictured) and Everything Everywhere All At Once and topped the feature film nominations announced for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Wednesday morning

The Michelle Yeohstarring Everything Everywhere All At Once, which has grossed more than $100 million against just a $14 million budget, was also a hit with SAG voters.

Yeoh, who scored a major career comeback with Everything Everywhere All At Once, was nominated for lead female actor.

Ke Huy Quan, best known as a child actor in Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom and The Goonies, cemented his return to Hollywood with a nomination for supporting male actor.

Stephanie Hsu, who plays the actors' daughter in the film, was nominated in the supporting female actor category, as was Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays a villainous IRS agent.

Another comeback film, the Darren Aronofskydirected drama The Whale, scored a lead nomination for its star Brendan Fraser, while his costar Hong Chau was nominated in the supporting female actor category.

Ana de Armas, who was nominated at the previous night's Golden Globe Awards ceremony for her fictional Marilyn Monroe film Blonde, scored another nomination for the controversial drama.

Arthouse hits: Both films scored nominations for their acting ensembles, as well as nods in most of the individual actor categories after scoring rave reviews; still from Everything Everywhere All At Once

Other nominees for feature films included Angela Bassett for supporting female actress for her Marvel superhero film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Eddie Redmayne was a surprise supporting male actor nominee for his creepy performance in The Good Nurse, and Adam Sandler scored a lead male actor nomination for Hustle, despite the film barely having an awards season profile.

There was more variety in the male and female lead actor categories, with several nominees being the only representatives of their films.

Cate Blanchett's acclaimed performance in Tar was recognized, as was Viola Davis for The Woman King and Danielle Deadwyler for the Civil Rights Movement drama Till.

Austin Butler scored a lead male actor nomination for playing the title role in the music biopic Elvis, while Bill Nighy scored a nomination for the drama Living.

The Fabelmans, which won Best Picture, Drama, award at the Golden Globes, was nominated for the Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture category, while Paul Dano was nominated in the supporting actor category for playing a fictionalized version of director Steven Spielberg's father.

Despite not receiving any individual nominations, the early Hollywood dramedy Babylon and Women Talking both received nominations for their full casts.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

Nominees: Ozark (pictured) and Better Call Saul were among the major TV nominees. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in lead drama categories

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.

Quinta Brunson, who won a Golden Globe for Abbott Elementary, was nominated for the series along with the rest of the cast in the ensemble category.

Barry scored ensemble and individual nominations for stars Bill Hader and Anthony Carrigan.

Finale: Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award

Other ensemble nominees included The Bear (which also got a nomination for star Jeremy Allen White) and Hacks (which got an additional nod for its star Jean Smart).

Christina Applegate and Rachel Brosnahan rounded out the female nominees for Dead To Me and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, respectively.

Television movies and limited series actors were also honored, though only with individual nominations.

Taron Egerton and Golden Globe winner Paul Walter Hauser scored nods for Blackbird, while Evan Peters and Niecy Nash were both nominated for the chilling thriller Dahmer.

Limited series: Jessica Chastain was nominated for the limited series and TV movie category for George And Tammy (pictured), while Amanda Seyfried was nominated for The Dropout and Steve Carrell was nominated for The Patient

Sam Elliott's work on the Yellowstone prequel 1883 was also recognized, as were Emily Blunt for The English and Amanda Seyfried for The Dropout.

Rounding out the A-lister nominations in the categories were Oscar winner Jessica Chastain for George And Tammy and Steve Carrell for the thriller The Patient.

The event will also be honoring acting legend Sally Field with the SAG Life Achievement Award for her work spanning over five decades earning over 70 acting credits.

The 76-year-old actress who exclaimed, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' when she won her second Oscar for Best Actress in 1984's Places in the Heart, is no stranger to Hollywood honors. Field has won Best Actress twice as she also scored for 1984's Places In The Heart.

You Like Me: During her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 1985 Oscars ceremonies, Sally endeared the audience when she told them, 'You like me! Right now! You like me!' (Pictured in Los Angeles in March 1985)

The talented actress has also won the SAG Award in the Outstanding Actress in a Drama series category for Brothers & Sisters. She has been nominated a total of 8 times.

Field has also received three Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, a Cannes Film Festival Award, and nominations for a Tony Award and two British Academy Film Awards.

There will also be plenty of A-list presenters including Zendaya and Ariana DeBose who is hot off of her viral BAFTAs rap.

Also presenting will be Aubrey Plaza, Jenna Ortega, Amy Poehler, Eugene Levy, Jason Bateman, Jeff Bridges, Adam Scott, and Matt Bomer in addition to SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher.
Kylie Minogue just performed at Sydney's WorldPride.

And the star, 54, was beaming when she jetted back to her hometown of Melbourne on Monday after lighting up the stage.

The Love At First Sight superstar wore a pair of loose-fitting chinos along with a black t-shirt and a fitted blazer.

The ageless beauty accessorised with a pair of dark sunglasses, Yves Saint Laurent clutch and oversized handbag for the trip.

She completed her look with a pair of black combat boots.

Ageless beauty Kylie Minogue, 54, jetted back to Melbourne on Monday following her performance at WorldPride in Sydney where she played to a 20,000-strong crowd. Pictured

Kylie wowed infront of a 20,000-strong crowd at the opening concert of Sydney's WorldPride event.

The star wore a futuristic-looking jumpsuit as she performed hits such as All The Lovers as the crowd gathered together to celebrate love of every kind.

The Can't Get You Out Of My Head hitmaker was also joined on-stage by her sister Dannii Minogue as the siblings shared a special moment together.

Kylie, a beloved gay icon, first performed at Sydney's Mardi Gras - which this year coincides with WorldPride - nearly 30 years ago.

The official opening concert was attended by fans from Australia and across the globe who gathered in a huge celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride.

The Love At First Sight superstar wore a pair of loose-fitting chinos along with a black t-shirt topped with a fitted blazer. Pictured

Charli XCX, Jessica Mauboy and Electric Fields all performed, with Courtney Act and Casey Donovan hosting and performing.

It comes after sad news Kylie reportedly split from her magazine executive boyfriend Paul Solomons after five years together.

The ex-Neighbours star is said to have parted ways with the former British GQ creative director after they struggled to make a long-distance relationship work.

Kylie returned to her home in Melbourne's eastern suburbs last year after decades of living in the UK, while her Welsh boyfriend chose to remain in London.

A source told The Sun: 'Kylie and Paul really tried to make things work but ultimately the time difference was a killer.

The star accessorised with a pair of dark sunglasses, Yves Saint Laurent clutch and oversized handbag for the trip. Pictured

'Paul couldn't exactly nip to Melbourne for a long weekend whenever things got strained.

'Kylie initially wanted to keep the split quiet though as she really does not want the narrative to be "poor, unlucky-in-love-Kylies heartbreak's again"'.

Kylie and Paul met in February 2018 after being introduced by mutual friends, and went public with their romance several months later.

The pair were even thought to have become engaged in 2021, when Paul's family appeared to let the news slip.
Elaine Hendrix and Lisa Ann Walter, who starred in the movie The Parent Trap together back in 1998, enjoyed a jovial reunion on the Screen Actors Guild Awards red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday.

Hendrix, 52, who played Meredith in the film, donned a stylish black tuxedo and her peroxide blonde bob was styled into flirty curls.

Meanwhile, fiery red head Walter, 59, who played Chessy, wore a show-stopping low-cut gown that put her cleavage on show.

The Parent Trap, starring a young Lindsay Lohan as twins Hallie and Annie, followed to girls, separated at birth who work to get their biological parents back together.

Hendrix revealed that Walter asked her to come to the event, in an interview with People on the red carpet, saying: 'Lisa Ann Walter asked me to show up as her date, so by golly, I showed up as her date.'

Reuniting at event: Elaine Hendrix and Lisa Ann Walter enjoyed a jovial reunion on the Screen Actors Guild Awards red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday

'She sure did,' Walter added. 'It's the best-looking date in a tux I've ever had.'

The pair's appearance at the event came about 25 years after they worked on the hit movie The Parent Trap.

While they hung out on the red carpet together, Walter and Hendrix actually played enemies in the beloved Disney classic.

Elaine played Meridith, a woman looking to marry Lohan's characters' father Nick (Dennis Quaid) for his money while Lisa Ann played Nick's housekeeper Chessy, who keeps a watchful eye on Elaine.

Walter's outfit held significant meaning for her with her saying she alway knew she'd wear it to the SAG Awards.

'I went a little more '50s, but this is a dress that I found about five years ago, and when I saw it I was entirely unemployed and I said I'm gonna wear this to the SAG awards,' she told People. 'Specifically, I don't know why, but specifically the SAG Awards  so I feel like I manifested it.

Walter was invited to the event for her role in the television show Abbott Elementary which was up for multiple awards at the event.

Abbott Elementary took home the trophy for Comedy Series Ensemble. The show's leading lady, Quinta Brunson, was also nominated for Female Actor in a Comedy Series, but lost to Jean Smart for her role in Hacks.

Among the television nominees, Ozark scored several nods. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney were both nominated in the lead categories, as was their costar Julia Garner.

Tux: Hendrix donned a stylish black tuxedo and her blonde, nearly white hair was cut short

Low-cut: Meanwhile, Walter donned a low-cut gown that pushed up her cleavage. Her bright red hair was parted to the right

Parent Trap: The pair's appearance at the event came about 25 years after they worked on the hit movie The Parent Trap together, starring Lindsay Lohan

Chessy: Lisa Ann played Nick's housekeeper Chessy who keeps a watchful eye on Elaine

Winners: Abbott Elementary took home the trophy for Comedy Series Ensemble. The show's leading lady, Quinta Brunson, was also nominated for Female Actor in a Comedy Series, but lost to Jean Smart for her role in Hacks

Garner also received a second nod in the limited series category for her work in Inventing Anna.

Better Call Saul received several nominations for lead actors Bob Odenkirk and Jonathan Banks in the same category, along with the ensemble award.

Adam Scott was nominated for his performance in Apple's Severance, and the show also received an ensemble nomination.

Elizabeth Debicki's nomination for playing Princess Diana on The Crown wasn't exactly a surprise, but Jeff Bridge's nomination for The Old Man flew under the radar.

The 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards are taking place at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City, California and will be broadcast live on Netflix's YouTube channel.

The awards favorite The White Lotus earned two nominations, one for actress Jennifer Coolidge and one for the whole ensemble cast.

Only Murders In The Building did well among the comedy series nominees with nods for stars Steve Martin and Martin Short in the male actor category, along with a full cast nod.
Bill Murray and Rooney Mara were among a group of people who were temporarily blocked from entering packed a SAG Awards ballroom at the the Fairmont Century Plaza hotel in Los Angeles Sunday, over fire safety protocols.

Variety co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh took to Twitter with a clip from inside the ceremony at the venue, where he panned around a crowded room packed with celebs and others dressed for the luxe event.

'Total chaos at the SAG Awards as Claire Foy and Rooney Mara are not being allowed inside the ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel  they're told they need to wait for the Fire Marshal to let them and hundreds of other guests inside,' Setoodeh said.

He added: 'Even Bill Murray has to wait. This is madness!'

In the clip, Murray, 72, was seen looking around the room, while Foy, 38, and Mara, 37, were seen in discussion with others.

At the show, Murray was clad in a a black suit with a multicolored bow tie. The A-list actor has past been nominated for three SAG Awards: In 2016, for A Very Murray Christmas; in 2016, for group honors for The Grand Budapest Hotel; and in 2004 for Lost in Translation.

Foy donned a yellow Prada gown to the proceedings, accessorizing with jewelry and toting a clutch purse,

Mara was clad in a black-and-white Alexander McQueen gown with her brown locks pulled back.

The Fire Marshal is not letting movie stars inside the #SAGAwards. Even Bill Murray has to wait. This is madness! pic.twitter.com/gxCsED6uez  Ramin Setoodeh (@RaminSetoodeh) February 27, 2023

The latest: Bill Murray, 72, was among the people in a group who were temporarily blocked from entering packed a SAG Awards ballroom at the the Fairmont Century Plaza hotel in Los Angeles Sunday, over fire safety protocols

SAG Awards 2023 WINNERS: AT A GLANCE FILM Cast in a Motion Picture: Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Leading Role: Brendan Fraser - The Whale Female Actor in a Leading Role: Michelle Yeoh - Everything Everywhere All At Once Male Actor in a Supporting Role: Ke Huy Quan - Everything Everywhere All At Once Female Actor in a Supporting Role: Jamie Lee Curtis - Everything Everywhere All At Once How sweet it is: Everything Everywhere All At Once nearly swept the film categories including top honor Cast in a Motion Picture TELEVISION Ensemble in a Drama Series: The White Lotus Ensemble in a Comedy Series: Abbott Elementary Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Sam Elliott - 1883 Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series: Jessica Chastain - George & Tammy Male Actor in a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Female Actor in a Drama Series: Jennifer Coolidge - The White Lotus Male Actor in a Comedy Series: Jeremy Allen White - The Bear Female Actor in a Comedy Series: Jean Smart - Hacks Advertisement

They were nominated with costars Jessie Buckley, Kate Hallett, Judith Ivey, Sheila McCarthy, Frances McDormand, Michelle McLeod, Liv McNeil, Ben Whishaw and August Winter.

Both Foy and Mara were among the stars nominated for then honors of Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, for their film Women Talking.

The cast of Everything Everywhere All At Once wound up taking the honors.

The schematics were figured out by 5 p.m. local time, when the broadcast of the event began streaming, Page Six reported, citing social media posts.

A number of Twitter users were unmoved by the disruption to the stars.

Said one user: 'Oh poor things. They have to wait a bit for people to do their jobs,' with a rolling eyes face emoji.

Another said, 'Madness? Really? My god youve had a privileged life. How dare that damned marshal follow safety protocols...just to make your life inconvenient.'

One user suggested organizers ' should have booked a bigger venue' or ensured 'they cleared it with the fire marshal first before inviting' too many attendees, adding, 'or better yet only invite those people nominated for awards and then check the seat count after and then start inviting more.'

Variety co-editor-in-chief Ramin Setoodeh took to Twitter with a clip from inside the ceremony at the venue, where he panned around a crowded room packed with celebs and others dressed for the luxe event

The journalist tweeted: 'Total chaos at the SAG Awards as Claire Foy and Rooney Mara are not being allowed inside the ballroom of the Fairmont Hotel'

He added: 'Even Bill Murray has to wait. This is madness!'

A number of Twitter users were unmoved by the disruption to the stars

The veteran actor was pictured on the red carpet at Sunday's proceedings from Los Angeles
Dr. Chris Brown is hosting his last season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! this year and Channel Ten is considering comedian Jimmy Rees as his replacement.

The network is searching for a replacement host after the celebrity vet, 44, signed a two-year contract earlier this year with rival network Channel Seven.

Jimmy, 35, is said to be a popular choice with network executives after impressing them with his appearances on the comedy panel show Taskmaster.

A source tells Woman's Day the network is keen to give Rees a chance to shine in a hosting role.

I'm A Celeb co-host Julia Morris, 54, has also said she would like to work more with the Melbourne born funnyman after appearing with him on Taskmaster.

Dr. Chris Brown (pictured) is hosting his last season of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! this year and Channel Ten is considering comedian Jimmy Rees as his replacement

Comedian Jimmy Rees (pictured) is said to be a popular choice with network executives after impressing them with his appearances on the comedy panel show Taskmaster

'Jimmy was so much fun to work with. He's a super layered, funny and a clever man,' she gushed.

It comes after Brown signed a deal with Seven and will officially join the network in July to produce 'new projects' for Channel Seven and 7Plus.

Dr Chris first joined Ten in 2008 to host Bondi Vet, which became a surprise ratings hit and was syndicated around the world.

The factual series was based on his real-life experience as a vet at the Bondi Junction Veterinary Hospital in Sydney's east.

A source tells Woman's Day the network is keen to give Rees a chance to shine in a hosting role

He went on to become a part-time panelist on The Project and also co-hosted I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and The Living Room, which was axed last year.

The move to Seven is a homecoming of sorts for Dr Chris.

He started his TV career in 2003 as a presenter on Harry's Practice on Seven, a role that earned him a Logie nomination for Most Popular New Talent.

I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! premieres Sunday, April 2 on Channel 10
Samsung Biologics' plant in Songdo, Incheon / Courtesy of Samsung Biologics



By Baek Byung-yeul



Samsung Biologics has been grappling with a series of attempts to steal its trade secrets as competition is intensifying in contract-based drug development and manufacturing, according to police and industry officials, Monday.



Incheon Metropolitan Police said one of Samsung Biologics' employees was arrested recently for attempting to take company data from a worksite without permission. The police agency said it is investigating the employee on suspicion of stealing trade secrets.



The employee is suspected of trying to leave with company data printed on 300 pieces of A4 paper in December 2022. The documents were related to U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards.



Upon being caught by security guards, the employee was handed over to the police, and Samsung Biologics sued the employee on charges of violating the Unfair Competition Prevention and Trade Secret Protection Act and breach of trust.



"It is difficult to reveal details about the issue because the police investigation is underway," a spokesman of Samsung Biologics said. "We are thoroughly rechecking the internal security system and strengthening systems to protect company information."



Samsung has been struggling with the infringement of trade secrets as employees transferring to its competitors have been attempting to bring proprietary data with them.



In 2022, Samsung Biologics filed an injunction against three employees who transferred to Lotte Biologics to ban them from infringing on trade secrets. These three people had been related to the core business of Samsung Biologics, and it is known that they printed a large number of documents before moving to Lotte.



In response, the Incheon District Court issued the injunction in July 2022, preventing the leaked business secrets of Samsung Biologics to be used by Lotte Biologics.



Also, in October, prosecutors launched an investigation into a Lotte Biologics employee suspected of stealing Samsung's trade secrets.



Lotte Biologics announced its bid to kick off its contract development and manufacturing organization (CMO) business, aiming to become one of the global top 10 players in the field by 2030.


Jamie Lee Curtis expressed her honest thoughts on Ariana Debose's viral BAFTAs rap during a red carpet interview with Deadline at the PGA Awards on Saturday.

'Im unclear as to what the f*** people are on about,' the Halloween actress, 64, stated after she was asked to comment on the infamous opening performance.

To make her point even more clear, she added, 'She is a fantastic talent. These people should shut the f*** up, back the f*** off, and let this woman just shine her light because she is fantastic. SHE IS FAN-TAS-TIC!'

Ariana, 32, stunned viewers with her rap performance celebrating female nominees last Sunday - with many quirky lines, including, 'Angela Bassett did the thing, Viola Davis my woman kingJamie Lee, you are all of us!' and became an international meme.

However, Jamie shared that she enjoyed the unusual performance, 'For me, it was joyous, celebratory, sisterly, hot, spicy, and shes so incredibly talented!'

Honest thoughts: Jamie Lee Curtis expressed her honest thoughts on Ariana Debose 's viral BAFTAs rap during a red carpet interview with Deadline at the PGA Awards on Saturday

Awkward: Ariana stunned viewers with her rap performance celebrating female nominees last Sunday

Warning - contains bad language

#PGAAwards Jamie Lee Curtis explains the mood inside the room at the BAFTAs during Ariana DeBose's rap: "She's fantastic" pic.twitter.com/B9flGFwi0m  Deadline Hollywood (@DEADLINE) February 26, 2023

Jamie expressed that the only thing 'shocking' to the audience were the close-up camera angles.

However, when the camera cut to her, the actress was unfazed: 'I was into the music, and I was having a great time.'

Debose referenced the hilarious performance while at the 2023 SAG Awards on Sunday as she presented with Diego Luna, and said, 'Diego, do the thing'

She also defended her performance after it was branded 'awkward' and 'painful' by viewers.

Speaking to Zoe Ball on her Radio 2 Breakfast Show, she poked fun at the backlash by saying the host was 'one of the few' who loved her performance.

In the interview, which will be broadcast on Monday, the Oscar winner explained that she was told her performance would 'celebrate women,' and she 'had a blast' despite viewers' negative reaction.

'And we did that and it was fun, not going to lie, I had a blast. So awesome.'

The other star mentioned in the rap, Angela Bassett, broke her silence on the song, which included that iconic line about the actress 'doing the thing'.

Unclear: 'Im unclear as to what the f*** people are on about,' the Halloween actress, 64, stated after she was asked to comment on the infamous opening performance

Defending her: To make her point even more clear, she added, 'She is a fantastic talent. These people should shut the f*** up, back the f*** off, and let this woman just shine her light because she is fantastic. SHE IS FAN-TAS-TIC!'

She enjoyed it: Jamie shared that she enjoyed the unusual performance, 'For me, it was joyous, celebratory, sisterly, hot, spicy, and shes so incredibly talented!'

Funny: Debose referenced the hilarious performance while at the 2023 SAG Awards on Sunday as she presented with Diego Luna, and said, 'Diego, do the thing'

Bassett revealed that she messaged the West Side Story actress to check in and ask if she was okay.

Angela told Variety at the 54th NAACP Awards about the aftermath, saying: 'I DM'd her last night.

'I just wanted to make sure she was okay because, you know, it's a lot of attention. And she is A-Okay.

The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star also said that she thought the moment was 'beautiful'.

She also teasingly quoted Ariana, during her acceptance speech, and said: 'I guess Angela Bassett did the thing!' to cheers from the audience.

Ariana recently issued her first public statement regarding what has quickly gone down as arguably the most embarrassing opening performance in 76-years of rich and varied BAFTA history.

The apparent outrage prompted a well-meaning DeBose to deactivate her Twitter account, but the star was back online after spotting a meme account devoted to her notorious performance on Instagram.

Using one of the performance's memorable lyrics, one meme features a shot of former US President George W. Bush being told of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center by former Chief Of Staff Andy Card.

The image, perhaps one of the defining moments from the 2001 tragedy, is superimposed with the words: 'Sir, Angela Bassett did the thing.'

Responding to the lighthearted post on Tuesday, DeBose wrote: 'Honestly, I love this.'

Sweet: On Saturday Angela Bassett also broke her silence on Ariana's rap and revealed she messaged the actress to check in: 'I just wanted to make sure she was okay because, you know, it's a lot of attention. And she is A-Okay'

Banter: On Wednesday, Ariana issued her first public statement regarding her opening performance after it sparked a flurry of memes from stunned viewers
Molly-Mae Hague shared a sweet tribute to her boyfriend Tommy Fury on Sunday night following his fight against Jake Paul in Saudi Arabia.

The influencer, 23, assured that there was 'never a doubt' in her mind as she cheered on her boxer beau from afar after he finally reigned victorious over the YouTube star.

While she was ever the doting support and even broke down into tears following the win, the new mother couldn't bear to watch Tommy in the ring - staying away from the TV until the result.

Staying back in the UK with their newborn daughter Bambi, four weeks, the Love Island star was joined by her sister Zoe and pals Maura Higgins, Ellen Graham and Stephanie Lam for a watching party.

But she wasn't actually present for the fight itself, as her sister shared a clip of Molly-Mae taking shelter in her bedroom while the others watched the clash.

'Never a doubt in my mind': Molly-Mae Hague penned a sweet victory tribute to beau Tommy Fury on Sunday after he defeated Jake Paul in the ring - but doesn't tune in to see the clash

Bursting with pride: She assured that there was never any question who would win while sharing a proud snap to her 7.3M Instagram followers

Tommy took on Jake in the highly-anticipated professional fight, taking the win as the pair made it through all eight rounds to a judges vote.

The new dad was the rightful winner in the end - with the judges calling the fight 76-73, 76-73, 74-75 in his favour - but with a point deduction and a knockdown against his name, it was far from plain sailing.

Proving she was backing him all the way, Molly-Mae took to Instagram to share a gushing tribute with her 7.3M followers.

Posting a snap where she shared a kiss with Tommy and cradled their daughter Bambi, she penned: 'The pressure that was on this boys shoulders.. I will never ever know how he dealt with it.

'Never been more proud of anyone in my life. GET HOME TO US OUR CHAMP,' continued the PrettyLittleThing Creative Director.

Sharing another snap of her beau with his winning belt, Molly-Mae added: 'Never a doubt in my mind'.

But when fight time came, the blonde beauty couldn't bring herself to watch her boyfriend take punches from Jake, instead quietly relaxing with daughter Bambi in her bedroom.

Zoe, Maura, Ellen and Stephanie all gathered in Molly-Mae's living room to watch the fight, filming their relieved reactions as the judges result was revealed, all jumping up and down for joy.

Family: Tommy's thoughts weren't far from home either, as the boxer dedicated his fight to Molly-Mae and their daughter

Support squad: Staying back in the UK with their newborn daughter Bambi, the Love Island star was joined by her sister Zoe and pals Maura Higgins, Ellen Graham and Stephanie Lam for a watching party

Can't watch: But she wasn't actually present for the fight itself, as her sister shared a clip of Molly-Mae taking shelter in her bedroom while the others watched the clash

Girls night: The pals enjoyed a spread of sweet and savoury treats as they gathered to watch the fight

But showing what her sister was up to while her boyfriend was crowned champ, Zoe then shared a video as she walked through the house - turning the camera to a quiet Molly-Mae as she nervously sat with Bambi.

The influencer appeared overcome with emotion as her pals bombarded the room to deliver the good news.

Tommy's thoughts weren't far from home either, as the boxer dedicated his fight to Molly-Mae and their daughter.

Breaking down into tears of joy after the fight, he gave his two girls an emotional shoutout while admitting that the victory was a weight lifted.

Speaking directly after the fight, Tommy said: 'For the past two and a half years this is all that consumed my life. Broken rib, denied access and everyone thought I was running scared.

'Tonight I made my own legacy. I am Tommy Fury. I want to dedicate this fight to my new baby girl Bambi at home and my Mrs. I love you and I cant wait to see you. This fight was for you. This belt is for you Bambi I love you.'

He went on to add: 'I had a dream and a vision I would win this fight. No one believed me. Now I can stand up and everyone can take note. Its my first main event at 23 years old. I had a world of pressure on me and I came through.

Winner: Tommy took on Jake in the highly-anticipated professional fight, taking the win as the pair made it through all eight rounds to a judges vote

Judges' vote: The new dad was the rightful winner in the end - with the judges calling the fight 76-73, 76-73, 74-75 in his favour - but with a point deduction and a knockdown against his name, it was far from plain sailing

'This to me is a world title fight. This was my dream and this was my destiny. This was my fate. I want to thank Saudi Arabia for having me. I love you all for having me and for turning out. You guys we did it. We did it.'

There was another sweet nod to his family at home during the fight, as Tommy had his daughter's name stitched into his shorts in gold lettering, and over the front of his robe.

While the logo of Molly-Mae's fake tan brand, Filter, was printed on his team's jackets and merchandise as a sponser.

The boxer is sure to be looking forward to getting home to Molly-Mae and Bambi, who the pair welcomed just one month prior, before the new dad had to jet off.
Jamie Lee Curtis has once again hinted at a sequel to iconic 2003 film Freaky Friday this week.

The Hollywood actress, 64, declared that while nothing has been officially confirmed, the reboot is 'of course going to happen'.

She starred alongside Lindsay Lohan in the Walt Disney Pictures comedy film, which has since become a classic and itself was a remake of the 1976 film of the same name starring Barbara Harris and a teenage Jodie Foster.

Talking with Variety at the Producers Guild Awards on Saturday, Jamie didn't make any secret of her hopes for the second film.

'It's going to happen,' she assured. Adding: 'Without saying there's anything officially happening, I'm looking at you in this moment and saying, "Of course it's going to happen." It's going to happen.'

Making plans: Jamie Lee Curtis declared that a Freaky Friday sequel is 'going to happen' this week at the Producers Guild Awards (pictured at the bash)

On-screen: She starred alongside Lindsay Lohan in the Walt Disney Pictures comedy film, which has since become a classic and itself was a remake of the 1976 film of the same name starring Barbara Harris and a teenage Jodie Foster

Jamie and Lindsay's Freaky Friday earned a whopping $160 million worldwide from just a $20 million budget.

Disney also turned Freaky Friday into a stage musical, with a filmed adaptation debuting in 2018.

While there has been no confirmation of a sequel from executives, Jamie revealed last year that she has even written to Disney asking for the film to be made.

Appearing on US chat show The View, Jamie was asked by host Sara Haines about the chatter about a possible sequel, and she admitted there has been, 'a lot of conversation' about the sequel.

'I've already written to Disney, my friends at Disney. I'm in their new Haunted Mansion movie,' she said of the upcoming movie slated for a 2023 release.

She added: 'I'm 64 years old... not today, soon, in a month, whatever, my point is I'm wide open, creatively, I'm wide open.'

Lindsay doesn't seem opposed to the idea either, telling WhoWhatWear magazine that it is an 'exciting idea' when probed on a sequel last year.

'It would be a very exciting adventure to go on, and I would be more than happy, and I would not say no. I would say yes. We'll see,' she shared.

Talking at the awards show, she explained: ''Without saying there's anything officially happening, I'm looking at you in this moment and saying, "Of course it's going to happen." It's going to happen'

Smash hit: Jamie and Lindsay's Freaky Friday earned a whopping $160 million worldwide from just a $20 million budget

Jamie has also showed her remaining support for Lindsay recently as the latter made her return to acting with festive Netflix film Falling For Christmas.

Sharing a picture of the film's poster to her social media, Jamie referenced her on-screen mother-daughter relationship with the post.

'My little girl is all grown UP!' she sweetle said in her post, while tagging the 36-year-old actress.
Paris Hilton has revealed she underwent another round of IVF this year in a bid to have a daughter.

The socialite, 42, and her husband Carter Reum - who recently shared the first picture of baby Phoenix Barron Hilton Reum - have been discussing plans for a second child just weeks after the birth of their son.

During Covid lockdown they successfully froze 20 embryos but as they were all were boys the couple decided to try again in a bid for a daughter.

Paris told Glamour magazine: 'Weve done it seven times I have all boys. I have 20 boys. I just went through the process again a month ago, so Im waiting for the results to see if theres any girls.'

She also confessed that she had previously had her eggs frozen on the advice of her pal Kim Kardashian, and had been planning to have a child on her own before she and Carter met.

New mother: Paris Hilton has revealed she underwent another round of IVF this year in a bid to have a daughter after her previous IVF attempts left her with 20 frozen boy embryos

Paris shocked the world when she announced she'd welcomed a son last month, including her own family.

Speaking on her This Is Paris podcast she said: 'Not even my mom, my sisters, my best friend knew until he was over a week old.

'It was really nice to have that with Carter, be our own journey together. I just feel like my life has been so public, and I've never really had anything be just mine.

'So when we were talking about it, I really felt that I wanted this journey to be for us only.

'Because we were so excited and wanted to tell our families, but we were just nervous because if you tell a person, then they tell someone, and all the sudden, it's in TMZ or Page Six, and I've had enough of my life like that.

'So Carter and I literally made a pact together that we would not tell anyone, and no one knew until just recently.'

Her mother didn't meet her newborn until about a week after he was born.

She said of the moment: 'When I introduced my mom to our baby boy, it was amazing to see the look on her face. She was so surprised  just the look on her face, it was priceless.'

Cute couple: The socialite, 42, and her husband Carter Reum have been discussing plans for the second child just weeks after the birth of their son

Paris previously spoke about her decision to keep her immediate family in the dark about her child until she was on the verge of announcing his birth.

'My entire life has been so public,' she told Harper's Bazaar.

'I've never had anything for myself. We decided that we wanted to have this whole experience to ourselves.'

'I want to protect him and to be with him every second. You have this mother instinct that kicks in, which I've never had before,' she said of her son.

Nobody knew: Paris shocked the world when she announced she'd welcomed a son last month, including her own family
After months of threats on social media, JSHealth Vitamins founder Jessica Sepel has finally taken legal action against Life Botanics.

Ms Sepel is suing the low-cost vitamin brand, owned by former MasterChef contestant Jimmy Seervai, alleging copyright infringement.

Documents submitted to the Federal Court, and obtained by The Australian, list 54 occasions where Mr Seervai has allegedly 'attacked' her company on Instagram.

The statement of claim reads: '[Life Botanics has] in trade or commerce, engaged in conduct which is misleading or deceptive.

'[JSHealth has] suffered loss and damage and will, unless such acts and conduct are permanently restrained, continue to suffer loss and damage.'

After months of threats on social media, JSHealth Vitamins founder Jessica Sepel (pictured) has finally taken legal action against Life Botanics

Ms Sepel is suing the low-cost vitamin brand, owned by former MasterChef contestant Jimmy Seervai (pictured), alleging copyright infringement

Mr Seervai says he simply uses 'a common marketing tool called comparative advertising' and that Ms Sepel is overcharging for vitamins.

It's the latest in a long-running and very public feud between the companies.

The rivalry exploded in March last year when Life Botanics, which is backed by actress and model Jodi Gordon, publicly shared formulation breakdowns of a JSHealth product and a similar Life Botanics product, demonstrating how the budget brand offers the same 'premium ingredients without the premium price tag'.

This sort of comparative advertising is commonplace in many industries, but Ms Sepel took it as a personal attack and responded by publicly lashing out at Life Botanics, which she described as a 'nasty copycat brand'.

MAFS star Martha Kalifatidis (pictured) has advertised JSHealth products on Instagram

Model and actress Jodi Gordon (pictured) is a Life Botanics ambassador

Ms Sepel and her husband, JSHealth CEO Dean Steingold, once made the Australian Financial Review's Young Rich List with an estimated worth of $426million.

The company's roaring success now sees JSHealth sell a bottle of vitamins every 10 seconds, and there are now plans to expand into Britain, North America and Asia.

A JSHealth spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia last March: 'Aside from the legalities involved in this case [with Life Botanics], what is most disappointing is the complete disregard for consumers.

'JSHealth Vitamins is a brand built on efficacy and trust. Our formulas are completely unique, created with ingredients exclusive to JSHealth.

'Our JSHealth community trusts us, as is evident in their response to this blatant social media marketing campaign.'

Ms Sepel is suing the low-cost vitamin brand, owned by former MasterChef contestant Jimmy Seervai, alleging copyright infringement. (Pictured: one of Life Botanics' products)
Fresh Meat actress Kimberley Nixon has shared her honest experience of post-natal depression.

The Cranford star, 37, has opened up about the challenges she faced while suffering with her mental health when she had her son Theodore - who she shares with husband Cai Howells.

Posting a picture of her in floods of tears on Monday, Kimberley explained the photo was taken two years ago - three months after giving birth.

She said she now wants to raise awareness of the condition, stating: 'I won't shut up about it until things change'.

Kimberley explained in the caption: 'This picture was taken two years ago almost to the day. I had been forced to take a shower. I couldn't stop crying.

Tough: Fresh Meat actress Kimberley Nixon has shared her honest experience of post-natal depression

Mum: The Cranford star, 37, has opened up about the challenges she faced while suffering with her mental health when she had her son Theodore - who she shares with husband Cai Howells

Difficult: Posting a picture of her in floods of tears on Monday, Kimberley explained the photo was taken two years ago - three months after giving birth

'My baby was three-months-old. I didn't understand what was happening to me.

'I thought I'd lost my mind/myself/my life and I didn't know WHY?!

'I think I took this photo in a moment of hope that in a few weeks' time, I would be 'normal' again and this would be a funny memory. Remember those mad baby blues?!

'It wasn't baby blues. It was a severe post-natal mental health condition.

'Two years later, I'm a different person. I've learned so much. I've come to understand so much.

'But I'm still so angry that when I needed help, begged for help, it wasn't there.

'I was made to feel more isolated and 'other' than I already did and that sent me in a downward spiral because it reinforced my thinking that I was beyond help.

Campaign: She said she now wants to raise awareness of the condition, stating: 'I won't shut up about it until things change'

Journey: Kimberley explained in the caption: 'This picture was taken two years ago almost to the day. I had been forced to take a shower. I couldn't stop crying'

Opening up: She said: 'My baby was three-months-old. I didn't understand what was happening to me. 'I thought I'd lost my mind/myself/my life and I didn't know WHY?!

Mental health: The star has also opened up about her struggles suffering with perinatal OCD

'I wasn't. I had a highly treatable, highly understandable condition as a reaction to my traumatic birth during pandemic conditions but no one told me that.

'And I won't shut up about it until things change.

'You're not broken, you're not a bad mum, you're not beyond help - you just don't have the correct information yet.

'I'm also angry that when you search a postnatal hashtag - it's all about getting as skinny as possible as soon as possible.'

The star has also opened up about her struggles suffering with perinatal OCD.

Perinatal OCD is when people experience OCD during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth.

She said 'OCD is not all about cleaning and germs. It can be any intrusive, taboo thoughts that repeat in your mind and torment you to the brink. It is mental torture and unbearable to live with.'

Fans have praised the star and thanked her for raising awareness of the condition.

Kimberly rose to fame on the Channel 4 show Fresh Meat - where she played dental student Josie - which followed a group of university students in Manchester.

Hard: Perinatal OCD is when people experience OCD during pregnancy or in the first year after giving birth (pictured with husband Cai)

Helping others: Fans have praised the star and thanked her for raising awareness of the condition

She starred alongside Jack Whitehall, Zawe Ashton, Greg McHugh, Joe Thomas and Charlotte Ritchie.

The much-loves show aired from 2011 to 2016 and had four successful series.

She then went on to be cast in Cranford as Sophy Hutton.

The BBC series followed the people of Cranford, a small Cheshire town on the cusp of change in the 1840s
Social media users have called out Married At First Sight's Dan Hunjas over a bizarre rant he made against his wife Sandy Jawanda during Monday's episode.

The entrepreneur, 43, got into an argument with Sandy, 36, over his active lifestyle and accused her of being an 'overthinker' who was cramping his style.

'You're not an active person, you don't want to be. I'm not feeling that energy or connection which is so important to me,' he began.

'What I'm trying to work out is are we compatible? That's a big question mark,' he added.

Sandy clarified the reason she couldn't exercise at the beach with Dan is because she had the skin condition eczema and thus was allergic to ocean water.

Social media users have called out Married At First Sight's Dan Hunjas (pictured) over a bizarre rant he made against his wife Sandy Jawanda during Monday's episode

The entrepreneur, 43, got into an argument with Sandy (pictured) over his active lifestyle and accused her of being an 'overthinker' who was cramping his style

Many Twitter users were appalled by Dan's blunt words and quickly called the Gold Coast native out.

'Dan wants the female version of himself. W*nker,' wrote one irate viewer.

'Dan is challenging Harrison and Cam for who's the biggest d**khead,' added another.

Meanwhile, a third person said 'Sandy is too smart for Dan', while others accused Dan of 'gaslighting' his wife.

It comes after Dan confirmed he was with new girlfriend Samantha Symes just four months after she attended his TV wedding to Sandy Jawanda.

Many Twitter users were appalled by Dan's blunt words and quickly called the Gold Coast native out

Since then, the couple have been very public about their romance, despite Dan's 'marriage' to Sandy still playing out on the show.

Both Nine producers and Sandy are 'furious' at Dan for spoiling the fact his marriage to Sandy doesn't last.

As of now, Dan is said to be cooperating with Channel Nine and has promised to 'stay away' from Samantha.

'You're not an active person, you don't want to be. I'm not feeling that energy or connection which is so important to me,' he began

The cast also received a stern reminder about 'playing the part' and keeping storyline details under wraps until they have aired on television - this includes wearing their wedding rings for several more weeks.

Meanwhile, a guest who attended Dan and Sandy's wedding claims he went rogue because he 'wasn't happy with his edit' after watching footage at the cast reunion.

They told Daily Mail Australia producers tried to make Dan appear like a 'soft, one-dimensional office guy' so he would seem more compatible with Sandy.

Married At First Sight continues Tuesday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine
Cindy Crawford looked phenomenal as she covered March's Vogue Arabia and opened up about her future continuing to be bright in modelling.

The 57-year-old supermodel showed off her incredible figure in a skimpy black bodysuit and tights and was adorned with pearls as she discussed how ageing shouldn't be a barrier to her career.

She looked every inch the star in the trio of images as she posed up a storm in the figure-hugging outfit which was teamed with glamorous fur heels.

She told the publication of attitudes towards ageing in various industries: 'What I don't want to do is be part of that message that's telling women of a certain age, ''You got to hang it up now.''

'Like, why? I don't believe in a season of invisibility.'

Star: Supermodel Cindy Crawford looked phenomenal as she covered March's Vogue Arabia and opened up about her future continuing to be bright in modelling

The eternal cover girl: A second cover image, showed Cindy sporting a leather biker jacket slung over her shoulders, while she sported a red lip and a pair of diamond drop earrings

She wore her brunette tresses in perfectly styled waves and opted for a glowing makeup look complete with a slick of red lip.

A second cover image, showed Cindy sporting a leather biker jacket slung over her shoulders, while she sported a red lip and a pair of diamond drop earrings.

Speaking candidly with Syrian American journalist Hala Gorani, Crawford also reflected on the decisions she made during the length of her career along with the advice she shared with her children Kaia, 21, and Presley Gerber, 23, when they started modeling.

Revealing she took the reins very early in her career, Cindy explained: 'I was doing Vogue and Revlon and then I did Playboy, and people couldn't understand why I would risk that. I gave up getting paid in order to have control, so that I have approval of every image.'

During the chat she also discussed her new documentary out later this year that tells the story of the Eighties-era supermodels.

The show will track the incredible rise of Naomi Campbell, Cindy, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington in '80s and '90s.

She said: 'Two weeks ago, we were all on set, shooting together. It's been a long time since the four of us were together in front of the camera and it was amazing.

'In a weird way, it was like no time had passed and, in another way, we also were fully our adult selves.'

It comes after last week Cindy showed off her dance moves as she celebrated her 57th birthday on Monday.

Candid: She told the publication of attitudes towards ageing in various industries: 'What I don't want to do is be part of that message that's telling women of a certain age, ''You got to hang it up now''

Beauty: She added: 'Like, why? I don't believe in a season of invisibility' (pictured back in 1991 as her modelling career began)

The longtime supermodel took to Instagram to thank her admirers for their birthday wishes and explained that her gratitude for 'living another year' increases with age.

In a short and fun stop-motion video, Cindy looked radiant in a plunging white dress that almost touched the floor.

The ageless beauty twirled around her flowing dress against a white backdrop under a birthday sign.

The Covergirl wrote in the caption, 'I always loved celebrating other people's birthdays but haven't been that big on celebrating my own - since my 3rd-grade bowling/pizza party.'

Cindy continued, 'But as I get older, I realize the importance of acknowledging my gratitude for life and living another year. I'm blessed to get more time to learn and grow and love and evolve. Thanks for all the birthday love.'

Crawford, married to Rande Gerber, wore her luscious brunette locks in her signature blowout style.

Cindy's husband, Rande, also appeared on Instagram to share a throwback video of their relationship.

The short video documented intimate family moments and special times over the years.

He captioned the video, 'Because this makes me smile, I had to post again. Real life with my girl from DeKalb, Illinois.. Happy birthday Cindy IU.'

At 57, Cindy is still going strong, proving age is just a number as she regularly posts workout photos and sexy snaps as she did last week on valentines day in a short silk nightgown.

The former cover girl said she stays fit by working out with weights and machines several times weekly.

Crawford has said hiking is one of her favorite exercises and has been spotted walking with friends in and around Malibu.

The Vogue cover model has said hiking is a time when she can exercise and catch up with pals.

Stunning: It comes after last week Cindy showed off her dance moves as she celebrated her 57th birthday on Monday

Glowing: At 57, Cindy is still going strong, proving age is just a number as she regularly posts workout photos and sexy snaps

Mother: Speaking candidly with Syrian American journalist Hala Gorani, Crawford also shared with her children Kaia, 21, (above) and Presley Gerber, 23, when they started modeling

Crawford officially retired from modeling but continues to pose occasionally for various publications.

The former House of Style host is also an entrepreneur.

She created her skincare line, Meaningful Beauty, in 2004 and often promotes it on her Instagram feed.

The proud mom said that now that she's in her 50s, she focuses more on wellness than fitting into skinny jeans.
Matt Agnew has spoken of his tender friendship with Khanh Ong.

The Bachelor star and the MasterChef Australia contestant have grown extremely close, holding hands, sharing regular 'date nights' and cuddles.

But the pair have denied there is anything 'sexual' in their bond while speaking on the Feast podcast this week.

'It's the lack of affection straight men show other men that people assume there must be something sexual there,' Matt said.

'Being affectionate and tactile with your friends, and blokes especially need to do more of this. Everyone should be comfortable enough in their sexuality that they don't feel uncomfortable showing affection, men or women.

Matt Agnew (left) has spoken of his tender friendship with Khanh Ong (right). The Bachelor star and the MasterChef Australia contestant have grown extremely close, holding hands, sharing regular 'date nights' and cuddles, but have denied that they are in a gay romance

'There's that random line in the sand - nah blokes can't show affection - which is stupid,' he added.

Matt went on to explain that the pair enjoy sharing a platonic cuddle as they are both single and in need of companionship.

'Humans are very social creatures. Cuddles and embraces, that releases dopamine and makes you feel good,' he said.

'For everyone, women and men, cuddling is important. That physical comfort and being able to feel safe. It's something inherently human.'

Matt explained that the pair enjoy sharing a platonic cuddle as they are both single and in need of companionship. Matt added that the men will call each other and say, 'Lets have a movie night, have a cuddle' and that 'it makes you feel better'. Matt is pictured on The Bachelor

'We were friends and it got to a point where we were like, "Do you just want to come on the couch and watch a movie and sit and hold hands?"' Khanh went on. He is pictured appearing on Australian Survivor: Blood v Water

Matt added that the men will call each other and say, 'Lets have a movie night, have a cuddle' and that 'it makes you feel better'.

'We usually do it on Tuesdays!' Khanh, who is openly gay, chimed in, adding that he was feeling 'fragile' last Monday and they had their date night twice that week.

'We were friends and it got to a point where we were like, "Do you just want to come on the couch and watch a movie and sit and hold hands?"' Khanh went on.

'I was missing the companionship. The sex is easy but the company was the hard thing to find so it kind of just worked.'

It comes after the pair of best friends enjoyed a getaway to Vietnam in January. They cuddled up as they enjoyed a boat ride across a river

It comes after the pair of best friends enjoyed a getaway to Vietnam.

The former Bachelor star, 35, displayed his ripped physique at the beach in a video shared by the celebrity chef, 30.

Hours later, the pair cuddled up as they enjoyed a boat ride across a river.

Smiling and laughing, Matt and Khanh posed for video footage while both wearing life jackets.

Matt and Khanh have been friends for some time.

In July 2022, the astrophysicist and the chef played up for the camera in a photo booth while attending a charity function.

In photos from the event, Khanh placed his hand on Matt's head while Matt wrapped his arms around his hips.

Matt and Khanh have been friends for some time. In July 2022, the astrophysicist and the chef played up for the camera in a photo booth while attending a charity function

They appeared to lean in for a kiss and were just inches away from locking lips as the camera snapped the photo.

In July last year, Matt was spotted looking for love on Bumble - with his profile describing him as a 'foodie' that 'loves ice cream' and is looking for dates at cafes.

Matthew appeared on the 2019 series of the Channel 10 dating show The Bachelor, which saw him ride off into the sunset with Chelsie McLeod.

However, the romance fizzled out after three months, and he later confirmed he was dating comedian Gen Fricker, before revealing he is single.
Jennifer Lawrence made the rare move of showing off her famous figure over the weekend.

The Oscar-winning actress was seen in a plunging black top paired with a leather skirt and high heels at a Screen Actors Guild Awards party on Friday.

The 32-year-old blonde beauty- who was seen at a park in Beverly Hills last week - almost had a wardrobe malfunction as she turned to the side to take a photo with a female pal, W editor Sara Moonves.

The event was the W magazine annual Best Performances event.

Also at the bash was the beauty's husband of almost four years, Cooke Maroney, whom she shares son Cy with. They welcomed the child a year ago.

Hot look: Jennifer Lawrence made the rare move of showing off her famous figure over the weekend

Good angle: The Oscar-winning actress was seen in a plunging black top paired with a leather skirt and high heels at a Screen Actors Guild Awards party on Friday. Here she is seen with W Magazine Editor-in-Chief Sara Moonves

Also at the event were Austin Butler and his girlfriend Kaia Gerber, whose mother is Cindy Crawford.

Other attendees included Michelle Williams, Taylor Russell, Ana de Armas, Danielle Deadwyler, Kate Hudson, Aubrey Plaza, Daniel Kwan, Daniel Scheinert and Baz Luhrmann.

Editor-in-Chief of W Magazine, Sara Moonves, along with Ws Editor-at-Large, Lynn Hirschberg hosted the publications annual Best Performances Party Friday night.

The star-studded affair took place at the Chateau Marmont in celebration of the magazines Best Performances Issue and the near culmination of the 2023 Awards Season.

Partygoers for the event among Hollywoods A-listers included 2023 Best Performance cover stars Austin Butler, Michelle Williams, Jennifer Lawrence, Taylor Russell, Ana de Armas, as well as W Best Performances feature stars Danielle Deadwyler, Kate Hudson, Aubrey Plaza, Diego Calva, Mia Goth, and Jeremy Pope.

Throughout the night, guests enjoyed light bites, specialty cocktails crafted by Casamigos (which was co-founded by Gerber's dad Rande Gerber), and late-night New York-style pizza and danced to a set by DJ Ross One.

TikTok had dedicated rooms featuring TVs playing Lynn Hirschbergs Screen Tests-turned TikToks in black and white on a loop throughout the evening.

Jennifer's latest outing comes after Miley Cyrus fans began circulating a wild theory that Jennifer had a fling with Liam Hemsworth while making The Hunger Games.

Her man was behind her: Also at the bash was the beauty's husband of almost four years, Cooke Maroney (left), whom she shares son Cy with. They welcomed the child a year ago

Cute look: The 32-year-old blonde beauty almost had a wardrobe malfunction as she turned to the side; seen with Camila Morrone who used to date Leonardo DiCaprio

Two blonde movie stars side by side: At one point Jennifer cuddled up to Kate Hudson

Miley and Liam had a whirlwind on-off relationship before getting engaged in May 2012, two months after The Hunger Games came out.

They eventually tied the knot two days before Christmas 2018, only to break up eight months later and finalize the divorce in January 2020.

The sensational rumors about Jennifer and Liam began swirling a few weeks ago after Miley released the music video for her hit single Flowers.

Her lyrics, which fans believe are about Liam, chart the course of a failed romance in which she and her lover 'built a home and watched it burn.'

The music video features Miley wearing a dazzling gold dress, which a viral TikTok post noted was strikingly similar to the Prabal Gurung gown that Jennifer wore to the Los Angeles premiere of The Hunger Games.

Power couple: Also there was Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler. The event was the W magazine annual Best Performances event.

Miley fans then dug up an old Watch What Happens Live interview in which Jennifer admitted she once shared an off-screen kiss with Liam.

Jennifer meanwhile spoke touchingly about motherhood in a Vogue interview last year, reflecting on how her outlook had changed since Cy was born.

'The morning after I gave birth, I felt like my whole life had started over. Like, Now is day one of my life,' she gushed.

'I just stared. I was just so in love. I also fell in love with all babies everywhere. Newborns are just so amazing.'

Jennifer added: 'Theyre these pink, swollen, fragile little survivors. Now I love all babies. Now I hear a baby crying in a restaurant and Im like, Awwww, preciousssss.'

The Don't Look Up actress reflected: 'My heart has stretched to a capacity that I didnt know about. I include my husband in that. And then theyre both just, like, out there  walking around, crossing streets.'

Jennifer marveled that her baby is 'gonna drive one day. Hes gonna be a stupid teenager and be behind the wheel of a car.'
Chinese premier meets renowned mathematician Shing-Tung Yau

Xinhua) 08:42, February 27, 2023

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets with world-renowned mathematician Shing-Tung Yau in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

BEIJING, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with world-renowned mathematician Shing-Tung Yau in Beijing on Friday.

During their meeting, Li said that innovation and development of science and technology require fundamental support from basic science, the foundation of which is mathematics. Therefore, the latter can be dubbed the crown of natural science.

Li called for respecting the laws of science and strengthening research on basic science. He encouraged researchers to stay devoted and focused and to give full play to their imagination and creativity.

Li stressed respecting talents and creating an environment where their skills are displayed, and strengthening international exchanges and cooperation to contribute to the progress of human civilization.

Shing-Tung Yau does research and education in mathematics. Yau has devoted himself to China's development of basic disciplines and education of outstanding mathematical talents in recent years. He is the first Chinese-born mathematician to win the Fields Medal, the highest international award for mathematics.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets with world-renowned mathematician Shing-Tung Yau in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, in this Dec. 12, 2022 file photo. AP-Yonhap



China has not moved toward providing lethal aid that would help Russia in its invasion of Ukraine and the United States has made clear behind closed doors that such a move would have serious consequences, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday.



"Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance - but if it goes down that road it will come at real costs to China," Sullivan told CNN's "State of the Union" program.



China has not moved forward in providing that aid, but neither has Beijing taken that option off the table, Sullivan said in a separate interview on ABC's "This Week" program.



U.S. officials have warned their Chinese counterparts privately about what those costs might be, Sullivan said, but he would not elaborate on those discussions.



The United States and its NATO allies in recent days have been scrambling to dissuade China from such a move, making public comments on their belief that China is considering providing lethal equipment to Russia. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday said China has been providing nonlethal assistance to Russia through its companies.



U.S. President Joe Biden visited Kyiv and met with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy last Monday, promising new American military aid for Ukraine worth $500 million. Friday marked the first anniversary of Russia's invasion. The United States has been by far the largest supplier of military assistance to help Ukraine repel better-equipped Russian forces. Ukraine expects a major new Russian offensive soon.











China's President Xi Jinping arrives to attend the APEC Economic Leaders Meeting during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, APEC summit, in Bangkok, Thailand, in this Nov. 19, 2022 file photo. AP-Yonhap
Laura Norton, 39, and Mark Jordon, 58, have revealed that both of their young children have been diagnosed with a rare genetic condition.

The engaged couple, best known for their roles across British soaps such as Emmerdale and Heartbeat, only just welcomed their second child, baby daughter Ronnie, in October 2022.

But family life with the newborn has been tainted with health stresses, as both Ronnie and their son Jesse, two, have been diagnosed with Usher syndrome.

Usher syndrome is a rare genetic disease that affects both hearing and vision, requiring both children to wear hearing aids for the rest of their lives - and potentially deal with sight loss into their teenage years.

Admitting that she was 'in tears' at the thought of something being wrong with her children before learning of the condition, Laura has this week opened up about how they are dealing with the health knockback and adjusting.

Emmerdale's Laura Norton and Mark Jordon detail their family's health woes as they reveal a heartbreaking rare genetic condition affecting both of their infant children

Children: The couple welcomed baby dauhter Ronnie in October 2022, and also share son Jesse, two

In a new interview with Hello! Magazine, the couple, who met on the set of Emmerdale in 2014, spoke out on the condition for the first time.

Laura is known for portraying Kerry Wyatt in Emmerdale, meeting her fiance, who portrayed PC Phil Bellamy in series Heartbeat, when he briefly joined the soap cast as Daz Spencer.

They often share a glimpse into family life with their two little ones via social media, but have kept the diagnosis, which they first suspected in 2021, under wraps.

Talking to Hello!, the pair admitted that the young children do not yet know of their condition, but as parents, they felt ready to talk about it in public in order to help others.

'We've agonised about doing this before we've even told our children about their condition... we're going to write them a letter to explain why we did ths and show then when they're old enough to understand,' shared Mark.

The couple first worried that there could be health issues shortly after the birth of son Jesse in 2021, when he failed standard hearing tests.

As further tests confirmed that something wasn't right with his hearing, Laura explained that she had a gut worry that there was an issue, sharing: 'My intuition told me there was a serious problem and I was in tears at the thought of it'.

Laura and Mark didn't learn that it was Usher Syndrome until they were expecting second child Ronnie - when they were told during a medical assesment that they were both carriers of the gene which causes the condition.

Condition: But family life with the newborn has been tainted with health stresses, as both Ronnie and their son Jesse, two, have been diagnosed with Usher syndrome

Speaking out: Talking to Hello!, the pair admitted that the young children do not yet know of their condition, but as parents, they felt ready to talk about it in public in order to help others

Heartbreaking: Both children have bene diagnosed with the same condition, which blood tests confirmed was passed on from the couple

WHAT IS USHER SYNDROME? Usher syndrome is a rare genetic disease that affects both hearing and vision. Type 1 Individuals with Type 1 Usher Syndrome have profound hearing loss of deafness at birth, balance problems and are likely to lose night vision by the age of ten. Type 2 Type 2 usually means that infants suffer moderate to severe hearing loss in early childhood, but their balance is not affected. Night vision is lost by teenage years. Type 3 While Type 3 seesnormal hearing at birth, with loss beginning in childhood and loss of night vision by teenage years. Treatment There is no treatment for Usher Syndrome currently, with the aim to catch it as early as possible. Advertisement

'Knowing that we'd passed this on to our son was heartbreaking,' said Laura, who was later told that her children will suffer night blindness in their teens, before peripheral vision loss and tunnel vision.

She continued: 'To watch our little boy enjoy the world around him yet know so much will be taken from him, was painful'.

Jesse now wears a hearing aid, with mum Laura explaining that he can 'hear airplanes in the sky before we can' with the help.

While it was bittersweet welcoming their daughter Jesse last year and going through the same issues as she was also diagnosed, the couple admitted that they at least knew what to expect the second time around.

While they are also pleased that their two children will have each other, rather than dealing with the condition alone.

Looking to the future, the couple are now hoping to raise awareness and help others with children suffering.

Taking a stand, Mark is even heading to Parliament this week to lobby MPs about raising awareness of Usher syndrome and campaign for funding.

There are three types of Usher Syndrome that can be suffered. Individuals with Type 1 have profound hearing loss of deafness at birth, balance problems and are likely to lose night vision by the age of ten.

While Type 2 usually means infants suffer moderate to severe hearing loss in early childhood, but their balance is not affected. Type 3 sees normal hearing at birth, with loss beginning in childhood. Type 2 and 3 see the loss of night vision by teenage years.

There is no treatment for Usher Syndrome currently, with the aim to catch it as early as possible.
Jean Smart has a new statue to put on her mantle.

The critically acclaimed actress, 71, received the Screen Actors Guild award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series Sunday in Los Angeles, but the Hacks star was unable to accept it in person, as she is recovering from a recent heart procedure.

The Babylon actress, who looked glamorous at the film's premiere in December, asked co-star Christopher McDonald, who stars as the Jean's sometime love interest in the HBO comedy, to accept the award for her.

Reading from a speech Jean had written, he told the audience of their peers, 'You all rock.'

Several of Jean's Hacks co-stars sang her praises and gave an update on her condition from the red carpet. 'We just love her. We're sending all of our love to her and she's doing fantastic,' Rose Abdoo told People.

Winner: Jean Smart, 71, received the Screen Actors Guild award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series on Sunday, but the Hacks star was unable to accept in person as she is recovering from a recent heart procedure; seen in September 2022

Referring to character Deborah's cocktail of choice, Johnny Sibilly promised to raise a glass in her honor, saying, 'We're having a dirty martini for Jean tonight.'

'She's truly an actor's actor, said Mark Indelicato. 'I think being able to work with her and just observing her is truly like a masterclass and I feel like we all feel that way so it's incredible to just share the stage with her.

Jean revealed she had undergone the surgery ad was now on the mend February 22 on Instagram, but did not disclose what kind of procedure it was.

'February is American Heart Month  a time when the nation spotlights heart health, so it feels important to share with all of you that I am recovering from a recent, successful heart procedure,' she informed her followers.

'I am fortunate to have excellent professional care and support from family and friends while I continue to recuperate. Please listen to your body and talk to your doctor  I'm very glad I did!'

As Jean recuperates, production on season three of her hit series Hacks has gone into hiatus, according to Variety.

In a statement obtained by the outlet, HBO Max and Universal Television sent Jean their 'well wishes': 'We are so happy that our beloved Jean Smart's heart procedure was successful and she's on the mend. HBO Max and UTV send their well wishes.'

Variety reports the award-winning series has been filming this winter with a premiere date scheduled for later in 2023.

You rock: Jean had co-star Christopher McDonald to accept the award for her. The actor, who stars Jean's sometime love interest on Hacks, read from a speech she wrote, telling the audience of peers, 'You rock!'

Best wishes: Jean's co-stars, Rose Abdoo, Mark Indelicato, Meg Stalter and Johnny Sibilly sent their best wishes for Jean's speedy recovery from the SAG red carpet Sunday

The show, however, will not be eligible for Emmys consideration as it will likely debut after the May 31 deadline for eligibility, according to Variety.

Jean won her fourth Emmy Award for season one of Hacks, which also picked up prizes for its writing and direction.

Fans worried the show might end after the emotional season two finale, where the professional relationship ends between Jean and Hannah Einbinder's characters.

Jean plays a pioneering comedian called Deborah Vance who at the start of the show has settled into a comfortable but uninspiring life as a Las Vegas act.

Meanwhile Hannah, 27, whose mother Laraine Newman was in the original cast of Saturday Night Live, plays Deborah's protege Ava.

Ava is a rising comedy writer who shortly before the start of season one has been canceled for a joke she made on Twitter.

On the mend! Jean, 71, revealed she was now on the mend as she announced her recent operation on Instagram on February 22

Paused: Variety has reported that production on season three of Hacks has gone into hiatus as Jean recovers

As Ava struggles to salvage her career and Deborah attempts to revitalize her own, the older established comedian hires the young gun to work for her.

The two women have a combative and initially reluctant professional relationship, but as their respect for each other gradually grows, a rapport forms between them.

By the end of season two, Ava has helped Deborah develop a comedy special that turns out to be a massive career triumph.

Trying to be magnanimous, Deborah then fires Ava so that the young hot writer can devote herself to her own career rather than becoming consumed by Deborah's.

Rave reviews poured in for season two, with Variety rhapsodizing that it 'doesn't miss a beat,' the Washington Post gushing: 'It's firing on all cylinders' and Vanity Fair saying it aims 'higher and deeper' than season one.
Hulk Hogan appeared to be doing well as he stepped out over the weekend in Tampa, Florida with his 44-year-old yoga instructor girlfriend Sky Daily.

He was spotted with an arm wrapped around his love, who wore skintight brown leggings and a plunging black top.

The legendary WWE star displayed his signature brawny arms as he donned a black short-sleeved t-shirt and black slacks.

The retired wrestler wore a black wrap around his head, leaving his straight, white-gray hair to fall out from underneath.

Hulk, who stands at 6ft7in tall, carried a bottle of wine as the duo headed to a French restaurant to celebrate his friend Rick Flair's 74th birthday.

Out and about: Hulk Hogan appeared to be doing well as he stepped out over the weekend in Tampa, Florida with his girlfriend Sky Daily

The 69-year-old father-of-two seems to have recovered from nerve damage following a surgery on his back.

The former VH1 personality donned a flashy watch on his wrist as well as a long, thin, silver-toned chain around his neck.

His long, white, horseshoe-shaped mustache was perfectly intact and he wore a pair of dark sunglasses atop his head.

The youthful public figure stepped out in a pair of black, gray, red, and white sneakers.

He carried a black-encased iPhone in his hand as he and his date headed to the French bistro Boulon Brasserie.

His girlfriend Sky wore her bright locks in a center part, letting them fall over her chest with loosely curled ends.

She showed off her ample and perky cleavage in a very low-cut, long-sleeved black top that hugged her torso.

It had small buttons going down the center and she wore a pair of champagne-colored heels with stud accents.

Looking good: The legendary WWE star displayed his signature brawny arms as he donned a black short-sleeved t-shirt and black pants

Affectionate: He was spotted with an arm wrapped around Daily, who wore skintight brown leggings and a plunging black top

The outing comes about one month after Kurt Angle, a friend of Hogan's, said he lost feeling in his lower body following back surgery.

Angle also noted the star  real name Terry Gene Bollea  had to use a cane to walk around.

Hogan underwent a procedure in which nerves were removed from his back, but further details of the surgery have not been shared.

'He had the nerves cut from his lower body, he cant feel his lower body. So, he has to use his cane to walk around,' Kurt revealed.

'I thought he was using the cane because he has pain in his back. He doesnt have any pain, he has nothing at all. He cant feel anything,' he added.

Hogan has not publicly addressed the issue and DailyMail.com attempted to reach out to his representation for comment.
Aubrey Plaza's on-stage temper tantrum at the SAG Awards sparked a flurry of social media speculation last night over just what left her looking so furious  and now DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal exactly what made her so 'annoyed'.

Although the 38-year-old White Lotus star has not publicly addressed the incident, a source close to Aubrey revealed that her irritated outburst was prompted by several different interactions on-stage.

The first, the insider shared was a 'direct result of her almost being elbowed in her face' as she and her fellow female co-stars were shuffled to the back of the stage while several of the male cast members made acceptance speeches.

And, the source added, that wasn't the only incident to rile up the actress as she and her fellow White Lotus stars took to the stage to accept the award for Best Ensemble in a Drama Series.

The insider confirmed speculation that Aubrey's temper was further aggravated when her co-star Jon Gries warned her that her 'boob was hanging out' of her risque gown. She was also seen muttering 'Jesus Christ' when her co-star used his speech to pay tribute to those who had died in the earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

Aubrey Plaza sparked a firestorm of speculation when she was seen looking visibly annoyed as she and her fellow White Lotus co-stars won a SAG Award on Sunday evening

The 38-year-old actress was initially seen smiling when the cast went on stage to accept the award for Best Ensemble in a Drama Series, however her expression soon changed

A source close to the star revealed to DailyMail.com that her 'annoyed' expression came as a result of several on-stage incidents - first when her co-star warned her 'boob was hanging out'

There were a couple of different things going on in that moment,' the insider told DailyMail.com. 'First, she was told that her boob was hanging out which would cause any woman to be uncomfortable.

'Then she was almost elbowed in the face and her reaction was a direct result of that.'

Aubrey's visibly 'annoyed' expression on-stage at the awards prompted a firestorm of social media reaction, with many viewers noticing that her first flash of anger occurred after Jon  who plays the husband of Jennifer Coolidge's character in the show  leaned over to whisper something in her ear.

The actress looked panicked for a second before looking down at her outfit and frantically adjusting the sequined 'straps' that criss-crossed over her chest.

Then, as she was adjusting her gown, White Lotus actor F. Murray Abraham was giving a speech to the crowd, in which he sent a 'prayer out to the earthquake victims of Syria and Turkey and a prayer for peace to Ukraine and Russia.'

When the crowd applauded, he shouted 'Union Forever!' And instead of clapping along with the cast, Aubrey was seen mouthing the word's 'Jesus Christ' under her breath.

Several viewers suggested that her outburst may have been directly linked to Abraham's speech - however what many didn't seem to spot was that she was nearly hit in the face by the elbow of one of her co-stars as they began embracing one another on-stage.

Video from the awards ceremony shows the moment that Aubrey nearly received an elbow to the cheek when her co-star Meghann Fahy went to hug Michael Imperioli.

Actor Jon Gries leaned over to whisper something in Aubrey's ear, at which point she was seen grasping her hands to her chest, before frantically rearranging her Michael Kors gown

There were a couple of different things going on in that moment,' the insider said. 'First, she was told that her boob was hanging out which would cause any woman to be uncomfortable'

Video from the awards ceremony shows the moment that Aubrey nearly received an elbow to the cheek when her co-star Meghann Fahy went to hug Michael Imperioli (seen)

Taking care of business: Following her appearance at the awards, Aubrey was spotted leaving Igloo Music Studios, where she may have been recording some voiceover lines

Covered up: The White Lotus looked casual chic with her double-breasted black coat, and she enlivened the look with a pair of burgundy-and-white striped pants

At that point, she is seen leaning back and muttering 'Jesus Christ' under her breath.

That, DailyMail.com's source insists, was what prompted her irritated reaction.

'Aubrey is extremely expressive, and she is also very sarcastic,' the source added, insisting that her reactions had nothing to do with the cast or the show, saying: 'She is very proud of her work on White Lotus.'

No doubt matters were not helped by the fact that both Aubrey and her co-star Jennifer, 61, were stuck at the back of the group of cast and crew who assembled on the stage to accept the award - despite the fact that both women received a slew of praise for their performance in the hit HBO show.

When the speeches wrapped, Aubrey was one of the first to exit the stage and viewers were quick to call out her seemingly-odd behavior in a series of tweets.

'Why was Aubrey Plaza so mad to win for The White Lotus?' one person questioned.

Bizarre: Her actions confused many fans on social media as they took to Twitter to discuss her mannerisms

Earlier in the evening Aubrey appeared confident and poised while working the red carpet in her gorgeous Michael Kors gown

Later in the evening Aubrey seemed to let go of her anger as she celebrated the amazing win

Aubrey clearly didn't let the elbow and wardrobe malfunction stop her for having fun at the show

Another then pointed out that the actress 'even exited the stage quick and alone rather than staying with the cast,' while a third chimed in: 'She looked like she haaaaated being up there and immediately ran off stage while everyone in the cast was congratulating and hugging each other.'

Thankfully, Aubrey's frown turned upside down after the show when she was pictured in great spirits while posing for photos with several members of the cast.

The White Lotus took home two prestigious SAG Awards and Jennifer - who played Tanya on season 2 of the HBO series - got emotional during her speech.

First, Jennifer thanked the show's creator, Mike White. She then thanked her parents for pushing her to pursue her dreams.

The HBO series won the ensemble award over Better Call Saul, The Crown, Ozark, and Severance.
Michelle Williams looked sensational as she posed for a reunion shoot with the cast of The Fabelmans for The Director's Issue of W Magazine.

The actress, 42, wore a canary yellow ensemble with the feathered texture of the lower half of her outfit taking on the appearance of a grass skirt.

She wore a matching structured top with the short sleeves being loosely ruffled at her elbows, with the item featuring a plunging neckline and curved hem.

The five-time Academy Award nominee, who played Mitzi Fabelman in the film, could be seen smiling as she posed against a grand piano in the Mojave Desert in Lancaster, California with her co-star Paul Dano, who played her on-screen husband Burt.

Movie The Fabelmans is based on the true story of legendary director Steven Spielberg's life, and after directing and photographing the shoot, he spoke to the magazine about how the film came to be and if there would be a sequel.

Work of art: Michelle Williams, 42, looked sensational as she posed for a reunion shoot with the cast of The Fabelmans for The Director's Issue of W Magazine

Stroke a pose: The actress, 42, wore a canary yellow ensemble with the feathered texture of the lower half of her outfit taking on the appearance of a grass skirt

All stars: Michelle, who played Mitzi Fabelman in the film, could be seen smiling as she posed with her co-star Paul Dano (top right), who played her on-screen husband Burt, (pictured with (L-R) Keeley Karstan, who played Sammy's sister Natalie, Gabriel LaBelle, who portrayed Sammie, Julia Butters, who was Sammy's sister Reggie, and Seth Rogan, who played Burt's best friend and Mitzi's true love Bennie Loewy)

Michelle and Paul were joined by their fellow cast members in the desert for the shoot.

In one image, screen star Michelle, whose character Mitzi is a tortured soul with a talent for playing the piano to concert standard, could be seen looking forlorn as she lay across the top of the black keyboard instrument with her hand raised up to her brow.

She had kicked her heels off and placed them on the piano while her leg hung down towards a strategically placed tumbleweed.

In another picture she could be seen beaming as she stood alongside the other key members of the cast including Gabriel LaBelle, who played aspiring filmmaker and director Sammy Fabelman, Julia Butters and Keeley Karstan, who portrayed Sammy's sisters Reggie and Natalie, and Seth Rogan, who played Burt's best friend and Mitzi's true love Bennie Loewy.

The Fabelmans takes a nostalgic look at their 60s life as Sammy's fascination and passion for cinematography unfolds on screen.

As an older teenager, Sammy is seen navigating the pursuit of his dream of becoming a successful filmmaker as his family struggles through life.

The semi-autobiographical film, directed by Steven Spielberg, is based on Steven's own parents and their eventual divorce.

Now in its fifth year, the Directors Issue of W Magazine highlights and celebrates some of the greatest and most talked about directors in film this year.

Telling the tale: Movie The Fabelmans is based on the true story of legendary director Steven Spielberg's life

Sheer talent: Michelle posed with a grand piano in the Mojave Desert in Lancaster, California, with her character Mitzi being a talented pianist in the film

Plot: The Fabelmans takes a nostalgic look at their 60s life as Sammy's fascination and passion for cinematography unfolds on screen

Not only was the shoot a cast reunion, director Steven also brought together the incredibly talented crew of the film, cinematographer Janusz Kaminsk, Oscar nominated production designer Rick Carter, and costume designer Mark Bridges for the occasion.

And Steven told the publication he decided to make the movie after the world was thrown into lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic, unsure about whether it would be an 'extinction-level event'.

He explained: 'I didnt know if Covid was going to be an extinction-level event. I wasnt sure whether the film Contagion was, in fact, art becoming life

'I started to think, If I had a chance to make only one more movie, what would that be?

'And the answer came as easy as taking the next breath: It would be the story of how my mom and dad got divorced, and my role in that. Just like that.'

On the emotion he felt seeing the cast of the film as the members of his family, he went on: 'It was cathartic. We re-created the house I grew up in from blueprints and photographs, and we matched it exactly. I stepped into my childhood home!

'I wanted to ask everyone to leave me alone in the house, but I didnt do that. I wanted to have a good cry, but I didnt want to cry in front of my entire crew and cast on the first day of interior shooting.

'Instead, I turned around, and there was Paul looking like my dad and Michelle looking like my mom, and I just broke down.

Storyline: As an older teenager, Sammy is seen navigating the pursuit of his dream of becoming a successful filmmaker as his family struggles through life

Documenting the past: . The semi-autobiographical film, directed by Steven Spielberg, is based on Steven's own parents and their eventual divorce

Honour: Now in its fifth year, the Directors Issue of W Magazine highlights and celebrates some of the greatest and most talked about directors in film this year

Dream team: Not only was the shoot a cast reunion, director Steven also brought together the incredibly talented crew of the film

Big names: Cinematographer Janusz Kaminsk, Oscar nominated production designer Rick Carter, and costume designer Mark Bridges worked on the shoot

Speaking out: Steven told the publication he decided to make the movie after the world was thrown into lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic

Honest: He explained: 'I didnt know if Covid was going to be an extinction-level event. I wasnt sure whether the film Contagion was, in fact, art becoming life'

Pondering: He continued: 'I started to think, If I had a chance to make only one more movie, what would that be?'

'Paul and Michelle came over and hugged me, and I will never forget that moment: The family was forged in those few seconds.'

And, while Steven stated he may be open to making a sequel of The Fabelmans, he said: 'I was so emotionally invested in The Fabelmans, I left a vast body of water between myself and the next project. I didnt plan ahead at all. I havent found my passion. And I cant work without passion. I wont.'

Steven previously said of the film according to The Hollywood Reporter: 'This film is a way of bringing my mom and dad back.

'And it also brought my sisters closer to me than I ever thought possible. That was worth making the film for.'

The director's mother Leah died in 2017 at the age of 97 while his father died in 2020 at the age of 103.

It comes after musician Bono made a surprise appearance at the Berlin international film festival to present Steven with a special lifetime achievement award.

The U2 frontman described Steven as 'one of the biggest big shots in Hollywood', as he presented the Oscar-winning director with the honorary Golden Bear award on Tuesday.

Members of the Irish rock band attended the International Berlinale festival for the premiere of documentary Kiss The Future, in which Bono, The Edge and Adam Clayton all star.

Youth: 'And the answer came as easy as taking the next breath: It would be the story of how my mom and dad got divorced, and my role in that. Just like that,' he said

Special: On the emotion he felt seeing the cast of the film as the members of his family, he went on: 'It was cathartic. We re-created the house I grew up in from blueprints'

History: 'We matched it exactly. I stepped into my childhood home! I wanted to ask everyone to leave me alone in the house, but I didnt do that,' he said

Emotional: 'I wanted to have a good cry, but I didnt want to cry in front of my entire crew and cast on the first day of interior shooting'

True to life: 'Instead, I turned around, and there was Paul looking like my dad and Michelle looking like my mom, and I just broke down,' he admitted

Comforting: 'Paul and Michelle came over and hugged me, and I will never forget that moment: The family was forged in those few seconds,' he concluded

Pause: While Steven stated he may be open to making a sequel, he said: 'I was so emotionally invested in The Fabelmans, I left a vast body of water between myself and the next project'

The band, who recently announced a new 2023 Las Vegas residency, gave a special performance ahead of the screening and were later joined on stage by actor Matt Damon.

Later, while presenting the award to Spielberg, Bono told audiences that Spielberg was 'out of this world'.

'He's not really a celebrity, is he? Thank God for that,' he said, per US outlets who attended the event.

'We know he's one of the biggest of the big shots in Hollywood, but we get the sense he doesn't quite belong there and we're kind of relieved.'

He added: 'Tonight you're giving the Golden Bear to Steven Spielberg for the right reasons.

'But his lifetime achievement is not just his work. It is his actual life, his actual family.'

Striving: As an older teenager, Sammy, played by newcomer Gabriel LaBelle (pictured), is seen navigating the pursuit of his dream of becoming a successful filmmaker in the movie

Inspiration: The semi-autobiographical film, directed by Steven Spielberg, is based on Steven's own parents and their eventual divorce (pictured in 2018)

Past recipients of the honorary Golden Bear award include Dustin Hoffman, Kirk Douglas and Meryl Streep.

Steven is known for Hollywood blockbusters including ET, Indiana Jones,

The Fabelmans is nominated for seven Academy Awards, including best picture at the Oscars next month.

The Director's issue of W Magazine is out now.
Austin Butler talked about losing his voice as he walked the red carpet at Sunday's 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards.

The 31-year-old actor told People that he could not longer sing after several takes while filming Elvis.

'We were on stage and I was singing Never Been To Spain, and, and we did so many takes, and at a certain point, my voice just, I just lost my voice,' he shared.

'Then I went on vocal rest for a couple of days, and I was able to come back,' said Butler.

Although the long hours and multiple takes may have been grueling, he added, 'There were those days, but it was also just the greatest ride of my life.'

Rising star: Austin Butler, 31, recalled his health challenges while playing the late King of Rock 'n Roll in Elvis as he walked the red carpet at Sunday's 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

Struggled: The 31-year-old actor told People that he could not longer sing after several takes while filming Elvis. 'We were on stage and I was singing Never Been To Spain, and, and we did so many takes, and at a certain point, my voice just, I just lost my voice,' he shared

This comes after he said last year he got a virus after filming the movie.

He fell ill while playing the late King of Rock 'n Roll in Elvis.

'I didn't get sick the entire time I filmed [Elvis], but the day I finished, I ended up in the emergency room,' he said.

Austin had contracted a virus that simulated appendicitis.

'I had a week of downtime where I actually ended up in the hospital,' Butler said on Sunday at the SAG Awards.

He added, 'So I spent a week in bed, and then I went to this other job.'

Butler looked dapper at the event in a tailored burgundy tuxedo and was joined on the red carpet by Elvis director Baz Luhrmann, 60, and his wife, Catherine Martin.

The Elvis star's burgundy tuxedo featured a retro cut highlighting Austin's tall, lean figure.

Happy to be there: Although the long hours and multiple takes may have been grueling, he added, 'There were those days, but it was also just the greatest ride of my life'

Butler's dirty blonde hair was styled up Elvis style, and he donned some clean-cut stubble.

Hollywood's new leading man arrived without his girlfriend, supermodel-turned-actress Kaia Gerber.

He hobnobbed with other A-list stars inside the Fairmont Century Plaza, posing alongside fellow nominees Julia Garner, who was nominated for her acclaimed turn in Inventing Anna, and Ana De Armas, who was nominated for her performance as Marilyn Monroe in Blonde.

Director and star: The star was joined by Elvis director Baz Luhrmann, 60, and his wife Catherine Martin, on Sunday

Austin went on to make a dashing duo with Taron Egerton, who looked handsome in a white tuxedo.

Egerton was nominated in the category of Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for his performance in Black Bird, ultimately losing out to Sam Elliott.

Butler's lauded turn as Elvis earned him a nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role.

He faced stiff competition from Brendan Fraser in The Whale, who received the Award for Best Actor.

The poster for the film of 2022: Austin has on a white Elvis suit for this look
Michael B Jordan got the chance to stand up to the woman who bullied him in high school when he hit the red carpet at the premiere of Creed III in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Black Panther: Wakanda Forever star, 36, talked to Morning Hustle host Lorel whom he attended Chad Science Academy in Newark, New Jersey with as a teen.

Lore'l asked him questions on the carpet.

Michael - who rocked a double breasted suit at the NYC premiere of Creed III - recognized his fellow classmate.

'Oh yeah, I was the corny kid, right? I heard it,' Michael said to Lore'l. Jordan was referring to a recent episode of her podcast Undressed, where she said he was 'corny' for bringing his 'stupid' headshot to school.

If looks could kill: Michael B Jordan got the chance to stand up to the woman who bullied him in high school when he hit the red carpet at the premiere of Creed III in Atlanta, Georgia. He snapped at Morning Hustle host Lorel whom he attended Chad Science Academy in Newark, New Jersey with

Last laugh: Lore'l and her friends called him corny, a moniker she doubled down on about the actor on a recent episode of her podcast

The two have quite the history.

On the podcast, Lore'l admitted she and her friends made fun of the Just Mercy star's name when they were in high school.

'To be honest with you, we teased him all the damn time because his name was Michael Jordan. Lets start there, and he was no Michael Jordan,' she said rudely.

Then she went in for another swing.

'And he also would come to school with a headshot,' she said.

'We lived in Newark, thats the hood. We would make fun of him like, What you gonna do with your stupid headshot!? And now look at him,' she said.

Teen heartthrob: The Black Panther star, pictured here at 16 in 2003, has been acting since he was 12

NOT corny: He appeared in episodes of The Sopranos, The Wire and CSI before landing a role on All My Children when he was 16

A women who went to school with Michael B. Jordan was interviewing him on the red carpet but Michael remembers when she used to call him corny back in school. Success really is the best revenge  pic.twitter.com/AUFFWP5kBc  Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) February 26, 2023

She also mocked Jordan's Valentine's Day gift to his ex-girlfriend Lori Harvey, calling him 'a corny guy.'

At the time, he rented out an aquarium for Lori's special occasion.

But Lore'l was in for a rude awakening when she confronted the Without Remorse actor, saying, 'We go way back, all the way back to Chad Science Academy in Newark.'

It turns out the Fruitvale Station actor had listened to the podcast in which she mentioned their past connection and he remembered exactly who she was.

That is when he made his comment.

Lore'l tried to hide her shock, saying: 'I said we used to make fun of the name. But yeah, well, youre not corny anymore.'

The Fahrenheit 451 actor's fans were quick to come to his defense on social media.

'You called him corny. Now you gotta call him actor, director, superstar, hollywood mogul. Living legend. He took that sh** personally,' one fan commented.

'That's why you don't bully, tease or pick on people. Now she's working the red carpet at his movie premiere. A full circle moment that money can't buy tbh,' another added.

Man in black: The actor, 36, wore an all black ensemble at the Atlanta premiere of the latest installment in the Creed franchise

And Jordan gets the last laugh. He was a working actor from the age of 12, appearing on The Sopranos, Cosby, The Wire and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation all before turning 16.

When he was old enough to get his driver's license, he was also starring on the long running soap opera All My Children.

Last week the actor sat down for an interview with the hosts of Good Morning America.

'As successful as you are, you stay hungry. There's this desire in you to be all that you possibly can be,' the hosts said.

The Fantastic Four star replied, 'Life is short.'

He credited his parents with setting an example for him with how hard they worked. The Wakanda Forever star also mentioned that he understands loss.

'Having people close to me thats no longer here and understanding that you have a shorter period of time to make an impact and wanting to inspire people to do better especially for the next generation,' he said.

'So as long as I can lead by example and squeeze every drop out of this thing called life thats what Im going to do,' he added.
Jordan Banjo and wife Naomi Courts enjoyed a spa babymoon in Italy over the weekend as they relaxed ahead of welcoming their third child together.

The Diversity dancer, 30, and his wife gave fans a glimpse of their lavish trip to Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco Resort & Spa on Instagram on Monday.

Naomi looked incredible as she shared a number of black and white photos donning a striped bikini showcasing her growing baby bump.

The couple, who married last year, relaxed in cosy white dressing gowns while lying on a sun lounger by an indoor pool as they posed for selfies together.

Naomi wrote: 'Time to go home  we have loved our little Italian escape.

'The countdown is on!': Jordan Banjo and wife Naomi Courts enjoyed a spa babymoon in Italy over the weekend as they relaxed ahead of welcoming their third child together

Babymoon: The Diversity dancer, 30, and his wife gave fans a glimpse of their lavish trip to Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco Resort & Spa on Instagram on Monday

'Excited to go home, see our babies and finish off the last preparations for our littlest ones soon arrival. The countdown is on!

'Thank you so much @thomascook & @wearelotuscomms for organising such a special weekend away and of course @rtuscany for such the most amazing stay! Well be back for sure! '

The couple also enjoyed a number of relaxing spa treatments including facials at the resort as they prepared to add to their family.

It comes after Jordan revealed that he has undergone a vasectomy by posting a light-hearted video of himself hobbling back to his car after the procedure.

He took to Instagram last week to share that he had undergone a vasectomy - a reversible procedure to cut the tubes that carry a man's sperm to prevent pregnancy.

He posted a video of himself walking tenderly back to his car after the procedure as his pregnant wife Naomi filmed him.

Naomi was heard laughing as Jordan flashed what seemed to be a slightly forced smile before she asked him if he was OK, to which he nervously replied 'yep'.

When Naomi then asked him if he was sure everything was OK, he said 'yes, positive' before insisting that the procedure wasn't 'bad'.

Laughing, he explained: 'The pain's not the problem. The problem is when you're so scared you have a nipple instead of a penis between your legs and then the nurse tries to tape it to your stomach, but there's not much to tape so she basically places a piece of tape over it.'

Relaxing: Naomi looked incredible as she shared a number of black and white photos donning a striped bikini showcasing her growing baby bump

Having fun: The couple, who married last year, relaxed in cosy white dressing gowns while lying on a sun lounger by an indoor pool as they posed for selfies together

Naomi penned: 'Time to go home. We have loved our little Italian escape. Excited to go home, see our babies and finish off the last preparations for our littlest ones soon arrival'

Looking slightly pained, Naomi then said: 'In you get hun,' as Jordan very carefully lowered himself into the car.

Jordan also shared a black-and-white selfie of himself to his Stories with his hoodie pulled up around his face as he wrote: 'It's a tender morning.'

Taking to the comments section, fans admitted they found the video hilarious but also showed their support for Jordan, who is the younger brother of Ashley Banjo.

One person wrote: 'Had a really s**t day and this has made me laugh out loud. Full respect for being a real man and doing that for your family.'

Another commented: 'Ooooch.. Maybe ease up on the moves for a day or three.'

While a third said: 'He looks totally traumatised,' and a fourth quipped: 'The yep sounded so convincing.'

Another penned: 'This made me laugh. Well done though - I admire any man who takes on this responsibility.'

Candid: It comes after Jordan revealed that he has undergone a vasectomy as he shared a video of himself limping back to his car after the procedure

Ouch: He took to Instagram to share that he had undergone a vasectomy - a reversible procedure to cut the tubes that carry a man's sperm to prevent pregnancy

Honest: Jordan also shared a black-and-white selfie of himself to his Stories with his hoodie pulled up around his face as he wrote: 'It's a tender morning'

Amused: Taking to the comments section, fans admitted they found the video hilarious but also showed their support for Jordan, who is the younger brother of Ashley Banjo

Opening up: Jordan is not the only star who has discussed having vasectomy as Catherine Tyldesley took to Instagram last week to praise her 'hero' husband Tom Pitfield for getting one

Jordan is not the only star who has openly discussed having vasectomy as Myleene Klass recently revealed her fiance Simon Motson had the procedure.

In November, she praised her partner for undergoing a vasectomy in order to 'give her a body a break' after four heartbreaking miscarriages.

The couple tragically lost four children before welcoming rainbow baby Apollo in 2019, with Myleene detailing the toll it took on her physically as well as mentally.

In order to prevent any further pregnancies without Myleene having to take birth control, Simon underwent the reversible surgical procedure.

What is a vasectomy and what are the risks? A vasectomy, or male sterilisation, is a procedure to cut the tubes that carry a man's sperm to permanently prevent pregnancy without further contraception. It can usually be done under local anaesthetic and takes about 15 minutes, according to the NHS. The procedure is only usually carried out on older men, and surgeons are often reluctant to carry it out on people under 30 in case they regret it later. The NHS lists possible complications as being a collection of blood inside the scrotum (haematoma), hard lumps called sperm granulomas (caused by sperm leaking from the tubes) or an infection. Long-term testicle pain is another possible complication, which may need further surgery to deal with. The percentage of men who experience this pain is debated, with different figures cited by various sources. Advertisement

Meanwhile, Catherine Tyldesley took to her Instagram Stories last week to praise her 'hero' husband Tom Pitfield for getting a vasectomy.

The former Coronation Street star, 39, shared a hilarious mirror selfie taken by the photographer, 35, where he pulled a worried expression before the surgery.

He had written in his original post, 'I hope they've turned the heating up [scissors and aubergine emojis],' while she added, 'My hero! Taking one for the team today! [laughing and scissors emojis].'

Catherine shares daughter Iris, 10 months, with the co-founder of Brood magazine as well as their son Alfie, seven.

Britain's Got Talent star Jordan's wife Naomi is currently pregnant with their third child and they revealed their happy news in October.

At the time, he shared an adorable shot with Naomi outside their home as their children Cassius, four, and Mimi, three, cradled her baby bump.

He captioned the shot: 'TRICK OR TREAT! Were expecting 2 (more) tiny little feet! baby number 3 due April 2023.'

The dancer also shared a sweet selfie of the pair holding their sonogram picture as he penned: 'The Banjo Family is growing even more Baby number 3 on the way.'

The couple, who tied the knot in August 2022, are also parents to son Cassius Ashley and daughter Mayowa 'Mimi' Angel.

Jordan announced his engagement to Naomi in January 2020 when he proposed during a trip to the Maldives after almost five years together.

Speaking to The Sun he said: 'Nay loves the idea of Mimi being a little flower girl and Cas being a page boy.

'It will be really nice to have them at the wedding because not everyone has children at the wedding, they normally come after. I'm super excited.

'Everyone in Diversity had kids after they got married, we did that the other way round.'

Jordan and Naomi met at famous Essex nightclub Sugar Hut in 2013, but embarked on a relationship two years later.

Expecting: Britain's Got Talent star Jordan's wife Naomi is currently pregnant with their third child and they revealed their happy news in October

Family: At the time, he shared an adorable shot with Naomi outside their home as their children Cassius, four, and Mimi, three, cradled her baby bump

In January 2018, the couple revealed they were expecting their first child together, with the Essex-based beauty admitting she took 'nine pregnancy tests' out of shock.

She told OK! at the time: 'I wanted to be sure so I went out and bought eight more tests. I sat with them laid out in front of me on the bathroom floor, staring at them in disbelief.

'We always said we wanted kids together, we just didn't think it would happen this soon. We're over the moon, though!'

Jordan rose to fame in 2009 when he won Britain's Got Talent with older brother Ashley as part of their dance troupe Diversity.
They tied the knot last July on the island of Sicily, his childhood home, after first meeting in 2014.

And in an exclusive interview with MailOnline, Strictly's Graziano di Prima, 28, revealed that he and wife Giada Lini, 32, are 'thinking about' having kids.

However, the Italian hunk went on to say that they have decided to wait 'a few years' before starting a family, because their dancing careers 'don't last very long.'

Speaking at the Bat Out of Hell press night at the Peacock Theatre in London - which runs until the 1st of April - Graziano insisted that he and Giada are 'giving priority' to their careers.

During the chat, the professional dancer also admitted that he doesn't believe in the infamous Strictly curse, while discussing whether a royal could be on the next celebrity line-up.

EXCLUSIVE: Strictly's Graziano di Prima, 28, revealed to MailOnline that he and wife Giada Lini, 32, are 'thinking about' having kids but will wait

Reasoning: However, the Italian hunk went on to say that they have decided to wait 'a few years' before starting a family, because their dancing careers 'don't last very long.'

Speaking about his and Giada's plans as a married couple, he revealed: 'We are giving priority to our careers.

'Our career is not long, so we are going to wait a few years before we think about a family, because I want to still dance, and she wants to still do Dancing With The Stars, but obviously we are thinking about it.'

The Strictly pro gushed over married life, branding it 'amazing,' and reminisced over their time together since they wed.

He said: 'We got married in July last year, and we have just been on our honeymoon together in the Maldives. It was paradise  it was beautiful.

'We're living in London. We've already been married almost one year, but it feels like we've been married six or seven years because we're always together  it's beautiful.'

But, Graziano confessed that it hasn't all been easy, with the newlyweds forced to spend a 'tough' three months apart because of their conflicting schedules.

He said: Giada does Dancing With The Stars in Italy, and Strictly is at the same time so we were apart for three months  it was very tough.

'But then we spent Christmas together, and now we're working on a new dance musical together  La Bamba. She's from Venice, and I'm from Sicily so we did the wedding there because my family is huge.'

Career focused: Graziano insisted that he and Giada are 'giving priority' to their careers

Asked if it hard working with his wife, Graziano said: 'No, it is beautiful because we are both dancers, so we understand the challenge, and if we can do something together, it is exciting.'

And of the infamous Strictly curse, he insisted: 'I don't believe in it at all. We are professionals, and we know with every action, there is a reaction.

Asked if his wife Giada ever gets jealous when he dances with other women, Graziano said: 'No way. It is our job. And it's the same when she's dancing with male celebrities  it is our job. We're used to dancing with other people.'

Elsewhere, Graziano spoke highly of his most recent Strictly Come Dancing partner, Kym Marsh, insisting: 'We're very good friends.

'I just saw her last week, and we did BBC Morning Live and we're really close. I love her family. She has got a beautiful family.'

Looking to the future, asked if he would like any of the royals to be his partner on Strictly, he admitted: 'Obviously. We'll see what happens next season.'

Elsewhere, Graziano spoke highly of his most recent Strictly Come Dancing partner, Kym Marsh, insisting: 'We're very good friends... we're really close'

Graziano married his long-term partner Giada last July, on the island of Sicily, his childhood home.

The dancers exchanged vows during a traditional Catholic ceremony having previously postponed their wedding plans because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 90-minute Catholic service took place within the Mediterranean island's Basilica della Madonna della Catena, a historic church situated in the quant village of Castiglione di Sicilia.

A select group of 200 guests attended the ceremony, among them fellow Strictly stars Nadiya Bychkova, Karim Zeroual and Chizzy Akudolu.
Courteney Cox is the last original Scream star to take part in the upcoming Scream VI, but working on the latest chapter in the franchise wasn't quite the same for the 58-year-old actress.

'I missed working with her,' the star who often posts comic videos on social media admitted to Variety about co-star Neve Campbell, who decided not to take part in the latest film due to a disagreement over pay.

She added, 'But Im going to support whatever she feels is right.'

The film is scheduled to open March 10.

Neve, 48, who starred as Scream mainstay Sidney Prescott, explained her reasoning over the summer, telling People, it was about the money and appreciation for her work.

Scream VI: Courteney Cox is the last original Scream star to take part in the upcoming Scream VI, but working on the latest chapter in the franchise wasn't quite the same for the 58-year-old actress

'I love this franchise. I did not feel that what I was being offered equated to the value that I bring to this franchise, and have brought to this franchise, for 25 years,' she told the publication.

'And as a woman in this business, I think it's really important for us to be valued and to fight to be valued.'

'I honestly don't believe that if I were a man and had done five installments of a huge blockbuster franchise over 25 years, that the number that I was offered would be the number that would be offered to a man.'

Courtney, who is reprising her role as reporter Gale Weathers can't reveal much about the plotline, but she did reveal a few of the changes that have happened since last she and Ghostface met.

'She still lives in New York, which is great because now the killers in New York, just as Sam and Tara have moved there. '

'It kind of fell right into her lap. She wrote a book afterward. She told Sam that she wouldnt and then of course she did, because, I mean, someone was going to do it. So, she had to.'

The Alabama native will be working alongside Wednesday star Jenna Ortega, who debuted her character Tara in the 2022 reboot, as well as Melissa Barrera as Sam and Jasmin Savoy Brown as Mindy.

Hayden Panettiere returned to the cast as Kirby, a character she created in 2011's Scream IV.

Missing: 'I missed working with her,' the star admitted to Variety about co-star Neve Campbell, who decided not to take part in the latest film due to a disagreement over pay, 'but Im going to support whatever she feels is right'

Value: Neve, 48, explained her reasoning, 'I love this franchise. I did not feel that what I was being offered equated to the value that I... have brought to this franchise, for 25 years, and as a woman in this business, I think it's really important for us to... fight to be valued'; seen in 2020

'Kirby comes  Hayden Panettiere. Its so interesting how people came back. I have to remember. I thought she died! I get so confused. Theres been so many. Im just so excited to be a part of something this long.'

Courteney has seen the final cut of Scream VI and admitted, 'I was excited. I was scared.'

'Even if I know every single person and whats gonna happen and why and when, I wont look. Its so realistic. And I laughed! I cared.'

The Friends star got a mention in Prince Harry's book, Spare, in which he shared an incident in which he was partying at her house and finding black diamond mushrooms chocolates in her refrigerator.

'He did stay here for a couple of days  probably two or three. Hes a really nice person,' she said, following up on the comment, explaining, 'Yes, its gotten back to me about it. Im not saying there were mushrooms! I definitely wasnt passing them out.'

Gale Weathers: Courteney reprised her role as Gale Weathers in Scream VI and admitted the movie does as intended. ''I was excited. I was scared,' she said
Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns speaks at the Central Intelligence Agency headquarters in Langley, Va., in this July 8, 2022 file photo. AP-Yonhap



The United States is "confident" that China is considering providing lethal equipment to support the Russian forces invading Ukraine, according to CIA director William Burns.



Such a step by China would be "a very risky and unwise bet," the intelligence chief said in an interview aired Sunday on CBS's "Face the Nation."



"I hope very much that they don't."



His comments, along with others Sunday by national security adviser Jake Sullivan, constituted the latest blunt U.S. warning to China against providing lethal weaponry.



But both Burns and Sullivan made clear that the United States has yet to detect signs that any arms have been shipped.



"We actually haven't seen them take a final decision... and we haven't seen the aid be provided to Russia," Sullivan said on CNN's "State of the Union."



U.S. officials quoted by the Wall Street Journal say China is considering sending drones and munitions to Russia. China has denied such a move.



With the conflict entering its second year, Burns suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin is nowhere near close to engaging in serious peace talks.



He repeatedly used the word "hubris" to describe the Russian leader's state of mind.



"I think Putin is, right now, entirely too confident of his ability... to wear down Ukraine, to grind away," he said.






MAFS viewers have turned on Dan Hunjas after he brutally accused his on-screen wife Sandy Jawanda of cramping his style on Monday's episode.

And the entrepreneur, 43, looked like he was preparing for the worst as he visited a cafe on the Gold Coast on Sunday.

Dan, whose marriage is set to unravel on the show in the coming weeks, looked glum as he sat at an outdoor table sipping his coffee.

Staring into the distance pensively, he looked worlds away from the happy-go-lucky singleton who won viewers' hearts at the beginning of the season.

At one stage, the exhausted-looking reality star covered his eyes as he listened to something on his phone.

MAFS star Dan Hunjas looked glum as he visited a cafe on the Gold Coast on Sunday. During Monday night's episode, he arrogantly accused his 'wife' Sandy Jawanda of cramping his style

Dan dressed down in a black T-shirt, red shorts and Nike sneakers, and completed his look with sunglasses and a wristband.

After finishing his coffee, Dan walked back to his car and drove away.

It comes as fans slam Dan for his 'gaslighting' behaviour towards Sandy on Monday's episode of Married At First Sight.

The entrepreneur, 43, whose marriage is set to unravel on the show in coming weeks, looked glum as he sat at an outdoor table sipping his coffee

Staring into the distance pensively, he looked worlds away from the happy-go-lucky singleton who won viewers' hearts at the beginning of the season

An exhausted-looking Dan covered his eyes as he listened to something on his phone

During an argument, Dan accused Sandy of being an 'overthinker' and criticised her for not being interested in living an 'active lifestyle'.

'You're not an active person, you don't want to be,' he lectured her.

'I'm not feeling that energy or connection which is so important to me.'

Dan dressed down in a black T-shirt, red shorts and Nike sneakers

He completed his look with a pair of sunglasses and a wristband

After finishing his coffee, Dan walked back to his car and drove away

'What I'm trying to work out is, are we compatible? That's a big question mark,' he added.

Sandy clarified the reason she couldn't exercise at the beach with Dan was because of her eczema and allergy to ocean water.

Many Twitter users were appalled by Dan's blunt words and quickly called him out.

It comes as fans slam Dan for his 'gaslighting' behaviour towards Sandy on Monday's episode

'Dan wants the female version of himself. W*nker,' tweeted one viewer.

'Dan is challenging Harrison and Cam for who's the biggest d**khead,' added another.

A third person said 'Sandy is too smart for Dan', while others accused Dan of 'gaslighting' his wife.

During an argument, Dan accused Sandy of being an 'overthinker' and criticised her for not being interested in living an 'active lifestyle'

Dan sparked backlash after confirming he was dating new girlfriend Samantha Symes just four months after she attended his TV wedding to Sandy

Meanwhile, Dan sparked backlash after confirming he was dating new girlfriend Samantha Symes just four months after she attended his TV wedding to Sandy.

The couple have been very public about their romance, despite Dan's 'marriage' to Sandy still playing out on the show.

Both Channel Nine producers and Sandy are 'furious' at Dan for spoiling the fact his experimental marriage doesn't last.

The couple have been very public about their romance, despite Dan's 'marriage' to Sandy still playing out on the show

Dan is now said to be cooperating with Nine and has promised to 'stay away' from Samantha.

The cast also received a stern reminder about 'playing the part' and keeping storyline details under wraps until they have aired on television. This includes wearing their wedding rings for several more weeks.

Meanwhile, a guest who attended Dan and Sandy's wedding claims he went rogue because he 'wasn't happy with his edit' after watching footage at the cast reunion.

They told Daily Mail Australia producers tried to make Dan appear like a 'soft, one-dimensional office guy' so he would seem more compatible with Sandy.

Married At First Sight continues Tuesday at 7.30pm on Channel Nine and 9Now

Both Channel Nine producers and Sandy are 'furious' at Dan for spoiling the fact his experimental marriage doesn't last
One of Australia's leading influencers has revealed she is now a full-time sex worker.

Kerri Gribble, who boasts 190,000 TikTok followers and is also a creator on OnlyFans, revealed on Monday she is no longer 'influencing' after she was 'cancelled' two months ago over a 'fat-shaming' feud with a rival model.

She made the revelation during an Instagram Q&A when a fan questioned her main source of income, asking if it comes from her 'work as an influencer' or 'another job'.

'I'm answering this because I found it funny when I was "cancelled" (still am, don't care) everyone was like, "She's going to go broke because all of her brand deals,"' she replied.

'The MOST I have made from a brand deal is less than $10,000...'

Kerri Gribble, who boasts 190,000 TikTok followers, revealed on Monday she is no longer 'influencing' and is now a full-time sex worker

Kerri continued: 'I don't do "influencing" anymore. I'm purely an S worker [sex worker] with my boyfriend of three years, and that's how we make our money.'

The Adelaide-based model, 21, was an OnlyFans creator prior to her 'fat-shaming' controversy late last year.

In December, Kerri was called out - and dropped by a popular fashion label - after calling rival social media star Mikaela Testa 'fat' in a scathing video.

She made the revelation during an Instagram Q&A when a fan questioned her main source of income, asking if it comes from her 'work as an influencer' or 'another job'

At the time, the blonde declared 'social media is fake' and 'Mikaela Testa is fat in person' in a clip shared to Snapchat.

There was instant backlash from fans of Mikaela, 22, who hails from Melbourne and has a massive 3.1 million TikTok followers as well as being a popular OnlyFans star.

Countless social media users then tagged Australian online fashion retailer White Fox Boutique, which Kerri once promoted on her social media.

In December, Kerri (left) came under fire - and was dropped by a fashion label - after calling rival social media star Mikaela Testa (right) 'fat' in scathing video

'Will not be buying from White Fox anymore if they're supporting someone who body shames other women,' one angry fan wrote in a clip shared to TikTok.

The label's official TikTok account was quick to reply in the comments below the clip: 'Hi babe! She is no longer an affiliate of the brand.'

Following the controversy, Kerri shared a lengthy written apology, in which she insisted there was 'more to the story'.

Adelaide-based model Kerri declared that 'social media is fake' and 'Mikaela Testa is fat in person' in a clip shared to Snapchat

'I guess I see the world differently but I'm not going to sit here and beat myself up for saying something bad about someone, as I'm human, we all do it with our friends,' she wrote.

'I'm still a human, I make mistakes, I say bad things, I yell, I scream, I cry, I don't do anything different to absolutely anybody else. I am so happy to be me, and that I'm grown and mature enough to forgive and love myself even after making mistakes.'

She went on to say she was simply surprised Mikaela 'looked different in person' and did not consider calling someone 'fat' to be an insult.

Following the controversy, Kerri shared a lengthy written apology, in which she insisted there was 'more to the story'

'I do not think Mik is "fat". Her and I could wear the same clothes, and I do not think of myself as fat,' she wrote.

'I also don't find being "fat" as an insult. It doesn't make me upset and to all the girls out there who do get called fat, I think you're still beautiful.

'Fat is not a disgusting word to me. I was taken aback because Mik looked different in person BUT not bad! She was still gorgeous!'

The influencer added she had not meant to post the video publicly, and that it was 'a drunk Snapchat that was meant to be sent to my best friends'.

She went on to say she was simply surprised Mikaela 'looked different in person' and did not consider calling someone 'fat' to be an insult

Kerri also insisted she had not lost any work as a result of her fat-shaming video.

'For the people coming for my "brand deals", I don't have any. If any of you had watched any of my lives or knew anything about me, you would all know I don't like doing them! I'm lazy!' she said.

Mikaela appeared to take the drama in her stride, and responded by posting a TikTok video in which she showed off her figure in a skimpy crop top set to audio that declared 'I don't give no f**ks'.

She captioned the clip: 'A girl I met at an event called me fat on her Snapchat Story hours later, if she thinks this is what "fat" is I'm concerned'.
Actress and model Ruby Rose appeared visibly nervous on Tuesday as she sat down for her first Australian TV interview in five years.

The genderfluid Orange Is the New Black star, 36, appeared on Channel Nine's Today show to discuss her role as an ambassador for LGBT charity Minus18.

During her sit-down with newsreader Brooke Boney, Ruby laughed anxiously as she discussed her return to Australia after years of living in Los Angeles.

'I'm excited, I'm nervous, I haven't done press in such a long time I'm thrilled. Thank you for having me,' she said.

She later added: 'I'm so nervous, this is insane! I haven't been back for five years so the second I landed I just felt so extremely grateful to be back because I've missed it a lot and this country is very special to me.'

Actress and model Ruby Rose appeared visibly nervous on Tuesday as she sat down for her first Australian TV interview in five years

Ruby also discussed her role as an ambassador for Minus18, a charity supporting LGBTQIA+ youth.

'I'm here as an ambassador for the Hilton and Minus18. They're doing these inclusive [high school] formals,' she explained.

'Minus18 is an organisation close to my heart because from the age of 12 or 13 I got involved as just a participant and it was the only place I felt safe to be myself. It had these discos and we could be free to be ourselves and have this community.'

Ruby wasn't the only one who seemed slightly unsure of herself, as Brooke also cast several nervous glances at the camera during the interview, despite sitting across from her guest on the sofa.

She may have been checking her autocue, or possibly looking at a producer or publicist trying to get her attention off screen.

The Orange Is the New Black star, 36, appeared on the Today show to discuss her role as an ambassador for LGBT+ charity Minus18. She was interviewed by Brooke Boney (pictured)

Ruby began her showbiz career as a model, DJ and TV presenter for MTV Australia.

As her popularity grew, she found herself fronting major modelling campaigns for big names including Maybelline, and co-hosting popular shows such as Channel 10's The Project and Australia's Next Top Model.

She moved to Hollywood in 2013 with hopes of making it as an actress.

Her efforts paid off, as Ruby shot to fame in 2015 with her breakout role in the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black.

During her sit-down, Ruby laughed anxiously as she discussed her return to Australia after years of living in Los Angeles

Her acting career skyrocketed when she was cast in blockbuster movies such as Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (2016) and Pitch Perfect 3 (2017).

She starred alongside Hollywood royalty Vin Diesel in xXx: Return of Xander Cage (2017) and Keanu Reeves in John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017).

In 2018, Ruby also co-starred with Jason Statham in sci-fi thriller The Meg.

However, her career took a turn for the worse in 2020 when she controversially quit CW superhero series Batwoman after just one season.
Jon Hamm and Anna Osceola are engaged.

The 51-year-old star is said to have popped the question actress Anna, 34, PEOPLE reports.

The pair first met when they co-starred on Mad Men in 2015, after Anna bagged a small role as the receptionist named Clementine at Esalen, a spiritual California retreat that Jon's character (Don Draper) attended in the final episode of the AMC series.

At the time, Jon was in an 18-year long relationship with Jennifer Westfeldt during which both frequently said they never wanted to get married. They broke up in 2015.

Jon and Anna - who were spotted in the Hamptons walking their dog - have been spotted together dating as far back as 2017 but rumors of their romance really took off in 2020 when the pair were repeatedly spotted running errands together during the coronavirus lockdown.

In an appearance on Howard Stern in September 2022, the Baby Driver star said he could see himself getting married someday, after previously vowing it would never happen for him as he didn't have the 'marriage chip' inside him.

They're ENGAGED! Jon Hamm, 51, has popped the question to girlfriend Anna Osceola, 34, after two years of dating

Where it all began: The couple met on the series finale of Med Men when Anna played Clementine, the receptionist at the wellness retreat Don Draper attended

'This is all part of what I'm saying,' Jon said at the time. 'This is another place in my life that I feel very settled and comfortable. I'm in a relationship right now and it's comfortable.'

He added that that he's been able to sit down to start 'really thinking about all that stuff, that's made the relationship that I'm in now even more meaningful and opened up the possibility of things like being married, having kids, defining a new version of happiness, life, wellness.'

'It sounds hokey and whatever, but it's real and for one of a better word, it's what I'm working for,' he continued. 'What else is there other than that?'

During that interview, the Bridesmaids actor also said that he was 'very much in love.'

The interview was in stark contrast to comments he made in 2012, where he revealed he categorically doesn't believe in marriage and that he has no yearning to be a father.

He told the magazine: 'I don't have a driving force to have a baby.'

Before adding: 'That said, I'm in a committed relationship, and if it ever came up, I'm not ruling it out.'

But he's even more vehement on the subject of marriage.

Two years: The couple met in 2015 but didn't confirm their romance until 2020

'I don't have a particularly defined example of marriage in my life,' he said.

Before adding: 'My parents got divorced when I was two and never remarried. So it doesn't mean anything to me.'

He concluded: 'I don't mean to say that it shouldn't mean things to other people. I'm not judging it one way or another.

'It's just my experience. I don't have that paragon of married life to look at and think, 'Oh yeah, that's it! That's what I want!''

The Emmy Award winner was open as he revealed that he has been seeking therapy over the past few years and has found that a lot of his trauma comes from losing his mother to colon cancer when he was just 10-years-old.

'It's also been a process of working on myself, my mental health, all the stuff with my therapist,' he said.

'And unpacking all of that trauma and realizing that when you lose someone that's so important to you, like a mother, so early, that that creates a wound that blocks a lot of that emotional accessibility.

'That blocks a lot of that availability and vulnerability.'

Changed view: The Baby Driver star credits therapy with getting him to a mental place where he is ready to get married

The couple made their red carpet debut in 2022. when they attended the Vanity Fair Oscars after party together.

They also attended the 2022 ESPYs together, where they packed on the PDAs on the red carpet.

And Jon and Anna also reunited on screen for the first time since the Mad Men finale in 2022 in the third installment of the Fletch franchise, Confess, Fletch.

The Black Mirror actor took on the role of Irwin M. Fletcher - which was originally played by Chevy Chase in the 1985 and 1989 films.

Anna played the role of Larry in the film.

Osceola is best known for her roles on Law & Order True Crime and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Greek, Rizzoli & Isles, and NCIS.

The Top Gun: Maverick and his lady love keep their private lives private and don't have a social media presence.

'The point of life is not to put dog ears on yourself and post it online for everyone to see,' he told InStyle in 2017.
Her marriage to Colin Firth is over and now it seems his Italian former wife is also saying arrivederci to London.

Removal men were spotted outside Livia Giuggiolis home in south-west London loading up a van with furniture.

The film producer, 53, who divorced the Bridget Jones star in 2019, was seen carrying a cardboard box out of the property which the couple bought for 2million in 2005.

She teamed her outfit of black leggings and jacket with multi-coloured trainers as Firth also made an appearance at his former home, carrying a suitcase and casually dressed in trainers, a woollen hat and glasses.

He first moved out in 2015 when the couple split before reuniting, splashing out 1.6million on a luxury three-bedroom flat nearby.

Is this arrivederci from Livia? Removal men are spotted outside the London home of Colin Firth's ex-wife

Firth also made an appearance at his former home, carrying a suitcase and casually dressed in trainers, a woollen hat and glasses

His ex-wife used Italian removals with workers wearing T-shirts with the word Traslochi meaning movers.

Despite leaving, work is being carried out on the house in her name and could cost up to 2million.

The couple met on the 1996 BBC drama Nostromo before tying the knot in Italy a year later.

They have sons aged 21 and 19 while Firth also has a son, actor Will, 32, with Meg Tilly, his co-star in the film Valmont.

Their representatives were contacted for comment.

Colin Firth and Livia Giuggioli attend the UK premiere of 'Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy' at BFI Southbank on September 13, 2011

His ex-wife used Italian removals with workers wearing T-shirts with the word Traslochi meaning movers
Love Island contestant Martin Akinola has accused his female co-stars of 'double standards' after they sided with Tanya Menhenga despite her leaving him 'humiliated on national TV.'

In his first interview since being dumped from the villa, Martin, 27, told MailOnline that if the roles were reversed and a woman was subjected to the same devastating outcome as him, there would have been a 'riot' and complaints made to Ofcom.

The dating show became embroiled in a 'toxic femininity' row this weekend after viewers blasted the female contestants of hypocrisy for celebrating their 'sisterhood' while behaving in the same way as the men.

Martin was at the centre of the controversy after Tanya, 22, coupled up with him despite being in one of the show's strongest relationships with Shaq Muhammad, who she had previously cemented her love for by taking their romance all the way and having sex in the villa.

But after reuniting with Shaq, 24, following days of growing close to Martin and kissing the Irishman in bed together, Tanya went back to her original partner and had the full support of her female Islanders.

Love Island contestant Martin Akinola has accused his female co-stars of 'double standards' after they sided with Tanya Menhenga despite her leaving him 'humiliated on national TV'

The dating show became embroiled in a 'toxic femininity' row after viewers blasted the female Islanders of hypocrisy for celebrating their 'sisterhood' while behaving like the men

Martin was at the centre of the controversy after Tanya coupled up with him despite being in one of the show's strongest relationships with Shaq Muhammad

After reuniting with Shaq following days of growing close to Martin and kissing the Irishman in bed, Tanya went back to her original partner and had the full support of her female Islanders

Martin said: 'There's a lot of double standards right now 120 per cent.

'Do you know how horrible it was having to watch Tanya and Shaq literally snog across from me every day? Every day I saw it.

'Obviously if the roles were reversed there would have been a riot. I would have had so many complaints to Ofcom.

'At no point did the girls tell Tanya that she was in the wrong, they literally did not do that. They supported each other. I was thinking 'what's going on here?'

The TV star was dumped from the villa last week after his only love interest Tanya went back to her former relationship with Shaq.

Martin knew as a single contestant his days were numbered but he even considered quitting to escape the torment of watching Tanya and Shaq cosy up together.

To add insult to injury, he was left disgusted after discovering three torn condom wrappers in the drawers of the bed he shared with Tanya, knowing they had been used with Shaq when they slept in the very same bed together.

He said: 'I didn't cry I'm a strong guy and I don't let anything rattle me, but do you know what when we went back to the main villa, they put me and Tanya in the same bed she shared with Shaq from day one. I was like this is savage why would you do this?

The TV star was dumped from the villa last week after his only love interest Tanya went back to her former relationship with Shaq

Martin knew as a single contestant his days were numbered but he even considered quitting to escape the torment of watching Tanya and Shaq cosy up together

He was left disgusted after finding three torn condom wrappers in the drawers of the bed he shared with Tanya, knowing they had been used with Shaq when they slept in the same bed

'There was a time I opened one of the drawers underneath the bed and I found three torn condom wrappers I was looking for a space to put my shoes and I saw that!'

While Martin struggled to cope with being in a love triangle, so did his competitor Shaq, who sobbed to co-star Tom Clare after being shown footage of Tanya playing away during the show's infamous Movie Night.

Meanwhile, concern grew for another male contestant, farmer Will Young, who cried after the girls jumped to the defence of his love interest Australian Jessie Wynter when he kissed another girl in Casa Amor.

None of the women condemned Tanya for her actions, which saw her snog Martin in bed while Shaq remained loyal.

Although Martin didn't break down in tears, he says his feelings for Tanya were genuine and he was heartbroken when she dropped him, but he attempted to not showing the true depth of his suffering on camera.

He said: 'My feelings for Tanya were quite strong and they were developing.

'The connection was real, our vibes were great, from the first day, the first five minutes it was there. We were having pillow talks, it was obvious we had an emotional connection and a lot of sexual chemistry everything was right.

'That is why it felt even worse when she went back to Shaq I was devastated but I'm a strong guy, I'm not going to show that on camera.'

Although Martin, who became a meme for his hilarious popcorn eating during Movie Night, didn't break down in tears, he says his feelings for Tanya were genuine and he was heartbroken when she dropped him

None of the women condemned Tanya for her actions, which saw her snog Martin in bed while Shaq remained loyal, during Movie Night, where clips from Casa Amor were played

Martin also feels Tanya deceived him and wasn't entirely honest with her emotions after she told him she was 'homesick' when her behaviour changed in the main villa

Martin also feels Tanya deceived him and wasn't entirely honest with her emotions after she had bought him back to the main villa to continue pursuing their romantic connection.

The Dublin-born Islander felt Tanya withdraw and even her body language changed as soon as she was reunited with Shaq but says she claimed her sudden switch in behaviour was because she felt 'homesick.'

He revealed: 'She said she was homesick and that's why she backed off from me in the main villa a lot of lies were being told.

'I'm being told now she was saying that she wanted Shaq back but she said to me that she was homesick, and I asked her if it was about Shaq and she said it had nothing to do with him or me, but it was a lie.

'She made me believe I was overthinking everything. Her body language changed, I noticed it, but she denied it and told me 'no, Martin it's just in your head' but I could see it.

'In Casa Amor she would sit close to me but in the main villa she sat 10 miles away from me like I was some diseased person.

'She made me look like an idiot in front of everyone and she made out that I was crazy thinking all these things.'

He believes Tanya, who left the bed she shared with Martin to sneakily kiss Shaq in the middle of the night, isn't genuine and doubts the longevity of their romance.

He believes Tanya, who left the bed she shared with Martin to sneakily kiss Shaq in the middle of the night, isn't genuine and doubts the longevity of their romance

Martin, who's a close friend of 2022 Islander Dami Hope, says he aspires to follow in his footsteps and pursue his love of fashion, and is even open to further TV work

Martin said: 'I wish them luck on the show because I hope they go far. But do I believe they're going to work on the outside? Personally, I don't think we will see that.

'Feelings are feelings but my personal opinion is that Tanya's aren't real for Shaq. She was swayed too easily. I can't imagine being in love with someone and being swayed with 5-10 minutes of a conversation I'm not sure her feelings are genuine but I do hope they go far. I hope I wasn't humiliated on national TV for nothing!'

Martin, who's a close friend of 2022 Islander Dami Hope, says he aspires to follow in his footsteps and pursue his love of fashion, and is even open to further TV work.

He said: 'I still want to be an engineer, but I also want to explore fashion.

'Before Love Island I have always been interested in fashion and I would love to explore that more deeply. I like sustainable items and I hope to get into that circle and go to Fashion Week basically similar to what Dami has achieved.

'We have both always looked up to each other, but I hope to do things he has done because I find it very interesting.

I am open to presenting, I want to do everything, acting, I'm a creative person and want to get into it.'
Palestinian boys look at masked fighters of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) at a parade in Rafah town in the Southern Gaza Strip, Feb. 26, in support of the West Bank and Palestinians in Israeli jails, and against the Palestinian-Israeli Aqaba summit. UPI-Yonhap



Israeli and Palestinian officials pledged to de-escalate surging violence after meeting on Sunday, issuing a joint statement in which Israel said it would halt discussions about new settlement units in the occupied West Bank for four months.



Attended by senior U.S., Jordanian and Egyptian officials in addition to the Israeli and Palestinian delegations, the meeting in Aqaba, Jordan was the first of its kind in years.



The Israeli and Palestinian sides said in their statement that they would work closely to prevent "further violence" and "reaffirmed the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground". They affirmed their commitment to previous agreements.



Jordan, along with its allies Egypt and the United States, said the understandings were "major progress towards re-establishing and deepening relations between the two sides".



But underlining the challenges, Palestinian militant group Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, called the meeting "worthless", and condemned the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority for taking part.



The meeting was held as anxiety mounts of an escalation in violence in the run-up to the holy Muslim month of Ramadan that begins in late March.



Israel and the Palestinian Authority "confirmed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of 3-6 months", the statement said.



"This includes an Israeli commitment to stop discussion of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorisation of any outposts for six months."



That could cause trouble in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government, one of the most right wing in Israeli history.





Masked Palestinian militants of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP) take part in a parade in Rafah town in the Southern Gaza Strip, on Feb. 26, in support of the West Bank and Palestinians in Israeli jails, and against the Palestinian-Israeli Aqaba summit. AFP-Yonhap
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, left, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meet during the COP27 climate summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Nov. 2022. AP-Yonhap



The United Kingdom and the European Union were poised Monday to end years of wrangling and seal a deal to resolve their thorny post-Brexit trade dispute over Northern Ireland.



Striking an agreement at a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen would be a victory for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak  but not the end of his troubles. Selling the deal to his own Conservative Party and its Northern Ireland allies may be a tougher struggle.



Sign of a potential U.K.-EU breakthrough came Sunday, when the two sides announced that von der Leyen will travel to England for a meeting with Sunak in Windsor, about 32 kilometers west of London. A joint news conference is penciled in, followed by a statement by Sunak to the House of Commons.



A meeting with King Charles III is also planned. The meeting is likely to touch on a variety of issues including climate change and the war in Ukraine.



"The king is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the government's advice that he should do so," a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said while speaking on condition of anonymity in line with customary policy.



If all goes to plan, the deal could end a dispute that has soured U.K.-EU relations, sparked the collapse of the Belfast-based regional government and shaken Northern Ireland's decades-old peace process.



Northern Ireland is the only part of the U.K. that shares a border with an EU member, the Republic of Ireland. When the U.K. left the bloc in 2020, the two sides agreed to keep the Irish border free of customs posts and other checks because an open border is a key pillar of Northern Ireland's peace process.



Instead there are checks on some goods entering Northern Ireland from the rest of the U.K. That angered British unionist politicians in Belfast, who say the new trade border in the Irish Sea undermines Northern Ireland's place in the United Kingdom.





Anti-Irish sea border posters are pictured near Larne Port near Belfast, Northern Ireland, Monday. AFP-Yonhap
Police are probing the girl's involvement in the brutal triangular love murder of Neravat Naveen on February 22 (Photo: ANI)

Hyderabad: Police are probing the girls involvement in the brutal triangular love murder of Neravat Naveen on February 22, who was missing from February 17 and whose vital organs were removed by the accused Hari Hara Krishna who sent their images to the girl.

Strangely when Naveens friend Mahipal called the girl, Niharika, on her mobile on February 18, and asked about the whereabouts of Naveen, she was reportedly rude to him and said Naveen did not use any mobile phone.

Dr Prabhakar, Krishnas father, said, "I do not understand. The girl, who had a seven-year relationship with Naveen, had herself called my son last November."

Krishnas father said that he did not know anything about the girl earlier. Three months ago, Dr Prabhakar said, he came to know that the girl had struck up a friendship with Krishna to provoke Nveen.

Krishna, in his confession, stated that he was planning to kill Naveen for the past three months, when the girl came into his life, police officials said.

Naveen, Krishna and the girl had completed intermediate from a junior college in Dilsukhnagar. Naveen and the girl had a relationship for the past seven years, but she had distanced herself from him of late.

"Krishna has been sent to 14 days remand. I am sure the actual facts and reasons behind Naveens murder will come out. I apologise to Naveens parents on behalf of my son. The police will get technical evidence about those who had helped Krishna," Dr Prabhakar said, adding that he had asked Krishna to surrender before Abdullapurmet police on February 24.

Meanwhile, Krishnas elder brother Mukesh Krishna, who was also involved in a murder case, died by suicide on June 15, 2011.

However Krishnas brother elder Mukesh Krishna was also involved in a murder case and on June 15 2011 he committed a suicide by hanging himself, reliable sources disclosed.

"The technical evidence from the mobile phones of Krishna and Naveen will give us a clear picture. If we get any evidence against anybody involved or conspiring the murder we will nab them. If required we will also take Krishna into police custody," a police officer said.
Dr Preethi with her sisters at the wedding. By Arrangement

HYDERABAD: Family members of Dr D. Preethi, who died on Sunday, remembered her as a lively presence, having last met her during her younger sisters wedding Vishalinis on February 9.

Their father D. Narender, an RPF constable, took leave for around two weeks, but Dr. Preethi could get five days away from the Kakatiya Medical College.

Dr Preethis cousin Mudavath Balakrishna, an engineering graduate, told Deccan Chronicle that although she was late to join the celebration, she got along well with the entire family and did not look distressed. "It was also a kind of reunion for us all cousins," he said.

Her uncle said she looked happy. "There was not even a slight hint of the pain she was going through. Maybe she ensured not to show it, to not disturb the occasion and our happiness. She was such a brave girl. We still cannot believe that she is no more," he said.

Her elder sister Pooja said when she last spoke to her on February 12, she told Dr Preethi to give it back to Dr Mohammed Saif if he continued harassing her.

Dr Preethi was the youngest of three daughters to Narender and Sharada who also have a son. Her elder sister Pooja and younger sister Vishalini are married and her younger brother Vamshi Prudhvi is studying Masters.
Supreme Court (PTI)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday transferred PILs pending before it challenging the Centre's Agnipath scheme for recruitment in the armed forces to the Delhi High Court.

A bench of Justices D Y Chandrachud, Surya Kant and A S Bopanna also asked the High Courts of Kerala, Punjab and Haryana, Patna and Uttarakhand to transfer the PILs pending before them against the scheme to the Delhi High Court or keep it pending till a decision from the Delhi High Court, if the petitioners before it so desire.

The bench said petitioners before the four high courts can also opt to intervene in the proceedings before the Delhi High Court.

The top court said it is transferring the pleas as it would be appropriate if it has benefit of the Delhi High Court's considered view on them.

It asked the Delhi High Court to consider all the transferred PILs along with the pleas which are already pending before it expeditiously on this issue.

The Agnipath scheme, announced on June 14, provides for the recruitment of youth between the age of 17-and-a-half and 21 years for only four years with a provision to retain 25 per cent of them for 15 more years. Protests had erupted in several states against the scheme.

Later, the government extended the upper age limit to 23 years for recruitment this year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai during an event for the release of the 13th instalment of funds under the PM-KISAN scheme and inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony of various projects, in Belagavi, Monday (PTI Photo)

Belagavi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday released the 13th instalment of funds worth over Rs 16,000 crore under PM-KISAN scheme, through direct benefit transfer to more than eight crore beneficiaries.

Under the scheme, eligible farmer families are provided Rs 6,000 per year in three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 each.

The scheme, launched in 2019, aims to provide income support to landholder farmer families with cultivable land, subject to specific exclusions. Till now, over Rs 2.25 lakh crore funds have been disbursed to more than 11 crore farmer families, primarily the small and marginal.

According to officials, during the Covid lockdown, Rs 1.75 lakh crore were distributed in multiple instalments to support these farmers facing hardship. The scheme has benefited over three crore women beneficiaries who have collectively received over `53,600 crore in funds.

He also laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth more than `2,700 crore in Karnatakas northern districts bordering Maharashtra.

Addressing a large gathering after a massive roadshow, Modi accused the Congress of disrespecting Karnataka and its leaders, especially its president Mallikarjun Kharge.

"I want to remind you how Congress hates Karnataka. It is part of the old culture of Congress to humiliate leaders from Karnataka. If the family in Congress, has any problem with anybody, they are humiliated. Everybody knows how leaders like S. Nijalingappa and Veerendra Patil (former Chief Ministers of Karnataka who hailed from the North Karnataka region) were humiliated," Modi said.

"I have great respect for Mallikarjun Kharge, who has a long political career. He has served the people in whatever way possible. But I was saddened when I saw the situation during the Congress meeting at Chhattisgarh (Plenary session). Everybody was standing in the sun. But AICC president Kharge who is senior both in age and party did not get a chance to stand under the shade of an umbrella. Umbrella was held for someone standing next to him," Modi said without naming Sonia Gandhi.

Using the occasion at a public meeting at Belagavi to hit out at the Congress, he targeted "dynastic parties", comments which are also seen to be targeted at former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda's JD(S), besides the Kharge-led party.
Supreme Court (PTI)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday said it would hear on March 21 the pleas challenging the amended law allowing extension of up to five years for the Enforcement Directorate (ED) director.

A bench of Justices B R Gavai and Aravind Kumar deferred the matter after noting that it needs a detailed hearing.

"List on March 21," the bench said.

As the hearing commenced, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that an affidavit has been filed by the Centre stating that the petitions in the matter have been filed on behalf of such leaders against whom cases of money laundering are pending.

"All political people facing serious money laundering cases have come before this court," he submitted.

To this, the top court remarked,"We are not concerned with that."

Senior advocate KV Vishwanathan, who has been appointed as amicus curiae in the case, said extensions may only be granted in exceptional cases.

The top court on December 12 had sought the response from the Centre and others to a plea challenging the third extension granted to Enforcement Directorate (ED) chief Sanjay Kumar Mishra.

It had issued notices to the Union of India, Central Vigilance Commission and the ED director on a plea filed by Congress leader Jaya Thakur.

The plea accused the central government of destroying the "basic structure" of democracy by misusing the enforcement agencies against its political opponents.

The Congress leader said the top court had passed a specific order that no further extension shall be granted to Mishra but the Centre gave him a second extension from November 17, 2021 to November 17, 2022 after which she filed a petition on which a notice was issued.

"During the pendency of above writ petition, respondent no.1 again gave third extension from November 18, 2022 to November 18, 2023 to the respondent no.2, which shows that respondent no.1 has no respect towards the rule of Law," the plea has said.

On November 18, Justice S K Kaul had recused himself from hearing the pleas challenging the amended law allowing extension of up to five years for the ED director, a day after Mishra was given a fresh one-year extension as the chief of the anti-money laundering agency.

A batch of petitions, including those filed by Congress leaders Randeep Singh Surjewala and Thakur, and TMC's Mahua Moitra and Saket Gokhale, had come up for hearing before the bench.

According to an official order, the Union government gave a fresh one-year extension to Mishra, the third for the Indian Revenue Service officer, in the position.

The notification issued by the government said the 1984 batch IRS officer will be in office till November 18, 2023.

Mishra, 62, was first appointed the director of the ED for two years on November 19, 2018. Later, by an order dated November 13, 2020, the central government modified the appointment letter retrospectively and his two-year term was changed to three years.

The government promulgated an ordinance last year under which the tenure of the ED and CBI chiefs could be extended by up to three years after the mandated term of two years.

On September 5, the Centre had contested in the top court the bona fide of the pleas filed by some political leaders challenging the extension granted to the ED chief and the amended law allowing such extensions up to five years, calling it "pressure tactics".

The apex court had then appointed Vishwanathan as amicus curiae (friend of the court) to assist it in dealing with the pleas.

Congress leader Surjewala's plea challenged the amendment made by the central government to the fundamental concept decided by the apex court in two judgements in the Vineet Narayan and the Common Cause cases on fixed tenure for such officials.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. (Photo by arrangement)

Vijayawada: Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy would disburse a financial assistance of 1,090.76 crore for 51.12 lakh farmers --mainly the victims of crop loss due to natural calamities -- under the YSR Rythu Bharosa-PM Kisan Scheme on Tuesday.

While disbursing the amount, the CM would address a public meeting on the premises of the Agriculture Market Yard at Tenali in the Guntur district. Each beneficiary would get 2,000.

As per the official schedule, Jagan Mohan Reddy would start from his residence at Tadepalli at 9.50 am and arrive at Tenali at 10.15 am. He would reach the agriculture market yard at 10.35 am and disburse the input subsidy to farmers who lost their crops due to natural calamities. He would return home at Tadepalli by 1.10 pm.

The CM is disbursing financial assistance to the farmers in the third phase of the current year and for the fourth consecutive year. He disbursed a financial aid of 13,500 for three consecutive years. In the fourth year, he already disbursed 11,500 to each affected farmer in two phases; and in the third phase, he would be offering 2,000 to each beneficiary, by remitting the amount directly into the bank accounts of the farmers by pressing a button.

Andhra Pradesh, under Jagan Mohan Reddy, is the only government in the country that provides an annual financial assistance of 13,500 to each farmer involved in the cultivation of their own farmland, along with other eligible farmers from the SC, ST, BC, minorities, tenant farmers categories. The assistance is also meant for those cultivating forest lands under Forest Rights Act, 2006, and endowments lands under Rythu Bharosa Scheme to help the farmers bring down input cost for cultivation crops.

In the last three-and-half-years, under the Rythu Bharosa-PM Kisan scheme, the farmers were offered 27,062.09 crore so far, including the 1,090.76 crore being disbursed on Tuesday.

The YSR Congress had promised in its 2019 poll manifesto to provide a financial aid of 12,500 each to farmers for a period of four years, with a total amount of 50,000. But, it is providing more, 13,500 per annum for five years, with a total of 67,500 some 17,500 more than the promised amount. In addition to this, the YSR Congress government under various schemes in the last three years and nine months, extended a financial aid of 1,45,751 crore.

Moreover, the state government would disburse an input subsidy of 76.99 crore to the 91,237 cyclone Mandous-affected farmers in Dec, 2022 on Tuesday. With this, the YSR Congress government provided input subsidy worth 1,911.78 crore for 22.22 lakh affected farmers in the state so far, officials said.
PV Sunil Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP). (DC File Photo)

HYDERABAD: The AP government has directed the state DGP to take action against the former head of state CID PV Sunil Kumar for misuse of power as cited by a lawyer, Gudapati Lakshminarayana.

The government order stated that the lawyer had lodged a complaint with the Union Home Ministry, following which it directed the state government to take proper action. Chief secretary Jawahar Reddy issued the order asking the DGP to take action as deemed fit.

The lawyer had complained to the Centre that was being misused by ADG PV Sunil Kumar to take revenge on the opposition leaders. He accused him of using criminal law to arrest targeted citizens.

The Telugu Desam had also lodged complaints against Sunil Kumar repeatedly. TD leaders including former ministers and MLAs alleged that the CID department has been converted into the CMs department and that Sunil misused power to harass TD leaders and cadres. CID sleuths were going to the houses of TD workers in the middle of the night.

Earlier, YSR Congress rebel MP Raghuramakrishnam Raju lodged a complaint against Sunil Kumar with the home department. He sought the ADGs removal from the service as he "joined the job on the basis of reservation and later became a Christian."
Family members and Left party leaders protest at NIMS hospital after hospital released health bulletin stating that Dr Preethi died on Sunday (Deepak Deshpande/DC)

HYDERABAD: After battling for life for around 85 hours, Dr Preethi Dharavath, the post-graduate medical student from Kakatiya Medical College in Warangal, was declared dead at 9.10 pm on Sunday at the Nizams Institute of Medical Sciences (Nims).

"In continuation of the health update of Dr Preethi, despite continous efforts by a multidisciplinary team of specialist doctors, she could not be saved and was declared dead," read a statement issued by the Nims Hospital medical superintendent.

Immediately afterwards, her family members refused to allow doctors to shift her body for a post-mortem examination, Dr Preethis father D. Narender, a Railway Protection Force employee, said that west zone DCP Joel Davis had spoke to the family and conveyed that the government would stand by them.

"He told us that minister Errabelli Dayakar Rao had conveyed the message. We are not ready to accept this. Whatever is the assurance, let it be on paper and it has to be conveyed in person to us. We are not ready to move from here without that assurance. If they are not willing to give us that assurance, we are ready to give up even our lives," he told mediapersons.

"We want to know what has happened till now. The details of the treatment provided to my sister and also an assurance on the action against Saif," demanded her younger brother Vamshi Prudhvi, referring to Dr Mohammed Saif, Dr Preethis senior who is accused of harassing her.

The family had not allowed the shifting of the body till the time of going to print. Additional police personnel were brought in to maintain calm.

Earlier in the day, Prudhvi told Deccan Chronicle that Dr Preethi was not a person who would take such a step and alleged that it was a clear case of murder. "When I met her a week before the alleged suicide attempt, she told me about the harassment from Saif and expressed the confidence that she would handle it alone."

"That day she was assisting in a surgery till 3 am. After that till the last call from her mobile at 8.30 am, what happened still remains a mystery. Immediately after she was found in an unconscious condition, her mobile was accessed using her finger print and the data was erased. Only after ensuring that all the evidence had been wiped out, she was killed and it is being projected as a suicide attempt," he claimed.

Before Dr Preethi was officially declared dead, there were rumours that she had passed away and people thronged the hospital in large numbers.

Members of tribal associations and political parties, particularly women, reached the hospital and raised slogans demanding justice to Dr Preethi. They also demanded that Dr Saif be "encountered" to send a strong message to all those students who rag their juniors.

The situation worsened after the official announcement. Protestors tried to barge into the old hospital building where Dr Preethi was being treated from Wednesday. A scuffle broke out between the cops and the protestors.

NIMS TURNS INTO A FORTRESS

Even before Dr D. Preethis death was officially declared, Nims Hospital where she was under treatment from February 22, turned into a security fortress.

Forces from all police stations across the west zone, along with task force and striking forces were deployed in advance, as a preventive measure. A large number of women personnel were also deployed at the hospital because of the presence of many women protesters.

As Dr Preethis post-mortem examination would be conducted at Gandhi Hospital, security was beefed at Gandhi hospital as well. A team of doctors from the department of forensic medicine at Gandhi hospital would conduct the autopsy.

Two ambulances were deployed at Nims Hospital to take the body to Gandhi Hospital if her family allowed it.

AUDIO CLIP HAS PREETHI, MOM TAKING ABOUT HER HARASSMENT

An audio clip of a purported conversation between Dr D. Preethi and her mother Sharada was widely circulated on social media platforms on Sunday. The purported conversation detailed how Dr Mohammed Saif, her senior, was harassing Dr Preethi.

Her mother appeared to be assuring her to be strong and that they will try to intervene. Dr Preethi is also heard saying that only Dr Saif was harassing her.

Police said that they investigating the authenticity of the clip. The sample would be sent for forensic analysis. It if was confirmed to be genuine, it would be taken as evidence, they said.
Congress' advertisement for the party's 85th plenary which appeared in many national dailies (Twitter)

Hyderabad: The fight over Congress advertisement for the partys 85th plenary which appeared in many national dailies continues though the party leadership has expressed apologies for the mistake.

DPAP chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad and Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh are engaged in a Twitter fight over the partys advertisement which missed leaders like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.

Slamming the party over the plenary advertisement, Azad tweeted, "After my exit from the party, BJPisation of Congress is taking place. In these pictures, where is the front line freedom fighter Maulana Azad?".

In a strong reply to Azad who left Congress to form his own political party, Jairam Ramesh said, "Maulana Abul Kalam Azad never ever betrayed the Congress Mr. Ghulam Nabi Azad. Did you see the backdrop at Raipur where Maulana Azad was prominently displayed.

Responding to Ghulam Nabi Azads remarks, Vaibhav Walia, secretary communications of AICC tweeted:

Maulana Azad and all freedom fighters are at the core of the Congress party and our ideology. A picture of our esteemed leader Maulana Azad on the Dias of the 85th Plenary Session says it all!

Another tweet on the topic was from Sushant Mundkar

Now after leaving the Congress they are seeing all over world with their New Glasses of "" who are unable to see the big display picture of stage...

Earlier, the Congress leadership has apologised for the in-excusable slip-up. Leaders like Jairam Ramesh, Manish Tewari have tweeted expressing apologies for leaving out the great freedom fighter from the plenary advertisement.

"Today an ad released by INC did not carry a photograph of Maulana Azad. It was an inexcusable slipup. Responsibility for it is being fixed & action will be taken. Meanwhile this is a most sincere apology from us. He will always remain an iconic & inspiring figure for us & India," tweeted Jairam Ramesh.
The Supreme Court has ordered the start of hearing of the Class X question paper leak. (DC File Photo)

VIJAYAWADA: The Supreme Court has ordered the start of hearing of the Class X question paper leak case involving former minister P Narayana, which was pending at the district and sessions court, based on merit.

The apex court heard the petition filed by the former minister in New Delhi on Monday and gave a weeks time to him to approach the AP High Court, based on the direction to be issued by the district and sessions court.

The top court ordered the state government not to take any action on Narayana until that time.

In last April, Telugu question paper of Class X public examination had been leaked through WhatsApp from a ZP High School at Nellepalli in Gangadhara Nellore mandal of Chittoor district. The police booked a case and took up the investigation after the role of former TD minister P Narayana in the leakage was suspected.

The case was heard at the district and sessions court and in the AP high court. When the HC canceled his bail, the former minister moved the apex court.




In this file photo taken on September 12, 2021 Pope Francis takes a tour in an open vehicle to greet faithful before a Holy Mass at the end of an International Eucharistic Congress in Budapest, during his papal visit to Hungary. AFP
Speaking to reporters at Banahatti helipad in Bagalkot on Sunday, Bommai asserted that the people of Karnataka are mature and intelligent enough not to be influenced by such tactics of the opposition. ANI

Mangaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai accused the opposition parties of being unable to accept the development in the state and resorting to baseless allegations against the government.

Speaking to reporters at Banahatti helipad in Bagalkot on Sunday, Bommai asserted that the people of Karnataka are mature and intelligent enough not to be influenced by such tactics of the opposition.

"The state has entered a new era of progress with the government making every effort to ensure development in key sectors such as irrigation, agriculture, industry, and social welfare. The opposition parties are finding it hard to accept the progress and hence, are resorting to baseless allegations against the government," he said.

The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the BJP will showcase its achievements to the people and people will appreciate the work done by the government.

Bommai dismissed the ongoing contention between Opposition Leader Siddaramaiah and KPCC President D.K. Shivakumar for the position of Chief Minister as an internal matter of the Congress Party.

He however asserted that the people of Karnataka have already rejected the Congress Party's leaders after seeing their performance while in power during the last term.

"Voters are mindful of the party's past performance. The Congress Party has no chance of returning to power in the state," he claimed.
AICC leader Rahul Gandhi addresses the Congress' 85th Plenary session (Image Source:PTI)

HYDERABAD: The emotive speech of AICC leader Rahul Gandhi has inspired Telangana leaders so much that they feel that the party has a strong leadership that understands India better. This was the conclusion from the reactions of the state leaders who attended the partys three-day plenary. They are inspired to take forward his message and 'untiring efforts' to bring unity.

CLP leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who was the only leader from the state to speak at the plenary, described Rahul's speech as thought-provoking as it not only raised issues people were facing but also had solutions.

"He was showing a direction to the cadre as he spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Adani and issues the country is facing. The resolutions were adopted after deep deliberations. Congress will come up with required amendments in parliament to ensure India remains a democratic nation, once the party comes to power," he said.

Former PCC chief V. Hanumantha Rao, who was ecstatic at Rahul Gandhis speech, said that it reflected his experience through the Bharat Jodo Yatra, which helped him to grasp and understand the real India. "During his four-month walkathon covering thousands of kilometres, he was moved to see the pain and sufferings of the common man. Here's a man, who has the ability to bring everyone together to achieve the India that our forefathers envisioned," Rao told Deccan Chronicle.

However, some were disappointed as barring Bhatti none of them could get to address the plenary.

"Like me, some senior leaders had jotted down points vis-a-vis the party and Telangana. Unfortunately, we were not given a chance to speak. Well, it was a decision taken at the highest level," said a senior leader, seeking anonymity.

Some leaders had to stay back, owing to transportation issues at Raipur. "The flights were all full as many decided to fly back immediately. Some seniors stayed back for a night. Leaders like me will travel by road or train," said a party leader from the Old City.
Voters show their identification cards as they wait in queues to cast their votes at a polling booth during the Tripura Assembly elections. (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: The exit polls have predicted a close fight between the BJP and the Left in Tripura though the BJP and its allies have an edge in the Assembly elections. The exit polls also predicted a clear victory for the BJP in Nagaland but a major loss for it in Meghalaya, as voting in the two northeastern states, each with 60 Assembly seats, ended on Monday.

The voter turnout in the Nagaland Assembly elections was recorded more than 74 per cent while it was about 64 per cent for Meghalaya, where the BJP is going it alone after a rift with chief minister Conrad Sangmas NPP and hopes to increase its tally.

The BJP, which wrested power in Tripura from the CPI(M) five years back, ending its long rule, had made all efforts to stop the alliance of the Left and Congress. The Poll of Exit Polls compiled by NDTV has predicted the BJP and its allies will win over 32 seats in the 60-member Assembly while in Meghalaya, Conrad Sangmas party, the National Peoples Party (NPP), is predicted to take maximum seats, but it will still need the Congress support to form a government in the state. The NPP is predicted to win around 20 to 26 seats but still short of few votes to reach the majority mark of 31.

In Nagaland, the BJP, which won 12 of the state's 60 seats in 2018, is contesting in alliance with the NDPP. Under the seat-sharing agreement, the NDPP is contesting 40 seats and the BJP 20. Here the BJP-NDPP (National Democratic Progressive Party) combine is predicted to get a clear majority of about 42 seats. The NPF is expected to get about six, as indicated in the Poll of Exit Polls by NDTV, while the Congress is expected to have a poor show with one or two seats.

In Nagaland, the India-Today Axis My India poll has indicated anything between 38-48 seats for the BJP, 1-2 for the Congress and 3-8 for NPF. Times Now-ETG Research has predicted 39-49 for BJP-NDPP, 4-8 seats for the NPF and zero for Congress. Jan Ki Baat has given 35-45 to BJP-NDPP combine, 6-10 to NPF and zero to Congress. Zee News-Matrize has predicted 35-43 seats for BJP-NDPP, 1-3 for Congress and 2-5 for NPF. In Nagaland, BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi won unopposed from Akuluto constituency after his opponent pulled out of the race.

In Tripura, all exit polls have given zero to the Congress. The India-Today Axis My India poll has indicated 36-45 seats for the BJP and 6-11 for the Left, Times Now-ETG Research has predicted 21-27 for BJP and 18-24 for the Left, Jan Ki Baat has given 29-40 to the BJP and 9-16 to Left and Zee News-Matrize has predicted 29-36 for BJP and 13-21 for the Left.

In Meghalaya, the NPP is projected to retain power with 21-26 seats. The Trinamul Congress, which is looking to expand its footprint in the state, is expected to get 8-13 seats as predicted by Zee News-Matrize. It has predicted 6-11 seats for the BJP and 3-6 for the Congress, which had once ruled the state in coalition with regional parties. The Congress is hoping to make a comeback in Meghalaya. Here, the India-Today Axis My India poll has indicated 18-24 seats for NPP, 4-8 seats for the BJP and 6-12 for the Congress, Times Now-ETG Research has predicted 18-26 for NPP, 3-6 for BJP and 2-5 for Congress, Jan Ki Baat has given 11-16 to NPP, 6-11 to Congress and 3-7 to BJP. In Meghalaya, polling in Sohiong seat was deferred after the death of a candidate.
Amit Shah is likely to discuss the party's activities from the village level to the state level. (PTI Photo)

HYDERABAD: Telanganas Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders are set to attend the Vision 90 meeting with Union home minister Amit Shah on Tuesday about the partys aim to win 90 Assembly seats in the upcoming state elections later this year.

Sources said that the executive members received a call from Shahs office on Monday, calling them for an emergency meeting. Shah is likely to discuss the party's activities from the village level to the state level and take stock of the groundwork for strengthening the cadre at the booth level.

They said that the BJP is also likely to discuss the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the liquor scam case as several Telugu leaders were suspected to be involved in it. The meeting will discuss various scenarios in case of arrests in the state, they said.

Senior leaders, including Union minister G. Kishan Reddy, BJP national vice-president D.K. Aruna, Etala Rajendar, Dr K. Laxman and Vijayashanti, among others, are likely to be in attendance.

Meanwhile, senior BJP leader G. Vivek Venkataswamy, who is on a tour of Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, said that the CBI would arrest Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao's daughter and MLC K. Kavita, in the Delhi liquor scam case.

"The accused in the case planned to implement a similar policy in Punjab to loot the people's money," Venkataswamy said, echoing comments made by party MP D. Arvind.
Mind you, many of these indicators come from those places where we want to be seen in a good light, such as Davos. (Representational Image)

Indias most reputable news agency, the Press Trust of India, reported last week that "India ranks 42 in 55 countries on International Intellectual Property Index". The story praised what was being done on this front in India, but it did not say that India had fallen from 40th place in 2021 and from 25th place (out of 25) in 2014.

If we are doing great things in this space, why is our rank not improving? This the story did not say.

In the Smart City Index, which began to be compiled globally in 2019, India had four cities that were ranked  Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad. The index monitors health and safety, opportunities, mobility and governance.

Bengaluru fell from 79th place to 93rd, Mumbai from 78th to 90th, Delhi from 68th to 89th and Hyderabad from 67th to 92nd.

Of course, our government will not tell you about this, though there will be much talk about how smart our cities have got in New India. Similarly, in The Economists Global Liveability Index, two Indian cities made it  Delhi, which fell from 110th to 118th place, and Mumbai, that went down from 115th to 124th.

Mind you, many of these indicators come from those places where we want to be seen in a good light, such as Davos. In the World Economic Forums Global Economic Competitiveness Index, India fell from 40th place to 68th place. In its Gender Gap Index, India has fallen from 114th to 135th rank.

We are often told how cheap and great Indias digital network is. What remains unsaid is that India is the world leader in Internet shutdowns and more than half of all government-enforced Internet bans across the world happen in this "mother of democracy".

In the Rule of Law Index, India has fallen from 66th place to 75th, and when we see what is happening all around us  the constant misuse of the investigative agencies, the frequency of the lynching of minorities, the regularity with which the police from BJP-ruled states attack Opposition leaders (the most recent cases being those of Pawan Khera and Jignesh Mevani) in other states, the indefinite jailing without bail of activists and dissenters  this does not surprise us at all. India and the subcontinent in general have always been a chaotic and anarchic place but things appear to be going from bad to worse. And this is true for any number of places that we look.

For all of the pious words that we are offered on freedom of expression, the number of demands for takedowns and bans that Twitter has received from India have gone from single digits in a year to thousands. This is because any criticism of the government and particularly that of the Prime Minister is now intolerable in the worlds largest democracy.

Have you heard the words "ease of doing business"? Yes, of course you have. But what you may not know is that India has fallen on the Global Economic Freedom Index (monitoring the role of law, government size, regulatory efficiency and open markets) from 120th place to 131st. This is because saying something is easy and doing it is difficult. And when there is no accountability from the media or any other place about what you say and cannot do, you can keep saying it.

In the Fragile States Index (formerly known as the failed states index), India has slid consistently since 2014. Why? Because the index measures social cohesion, along with the economy and the polity, and a strong case can be made out that we have fallen on all of these.

The one index that the government kept harping about was the World Banks ease of doing business index. Unfortunately, that index has been discontinued a couple of years ago after it was found that some countries were fudging the data. India was not among the nations that were suspected of doing so, but there was another problem that some media organisations pointed out here. The rating was only for two cities and only for listed companies above a certain size. And further, the rating could easily be gamed if minor changes were made to procedure. With a sharp focus on these minor changes, it was possible to really improve your rating while having no real change on the ground in terms of the "ease of doing business". So, we rose, till such time as the rating was discontinued.

Now there is nothing left to talk about. The list of things we have fallen behind on is quite long and I have compiled it for one of my books, and it is troublesome that with each new edition, changes need to be made in the data because we continue to slide on so many fronts. I have written about this before, and one reason for that is that the rhetoric that we are fed daily needs to be measured against performance and the facts. That is simply not happening.

Apart from anything else, what is striking is that the media has no interest in reporting the background to which they give out the news. To say that India is ranked somewhere, without giving the necessary background and perspective, is to not cover the real story.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Chhattisgarh state President Mohan Markam and other party leaders during the 85th plenary session, in Raipur, Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. (Photo: PTI)

The Congress Partys resolutions ratified  a nominal procedure  at the 85th plenary session in Chhattisgarhs capital Raipur on February 25-26 show that much thought has gone into them, and there is a serious rethink on many of the substantive issues. The cynical way of looking at them is to argue that the resolutions are not worth the paper they are written on, and they do not matter in the realpolitik of intra-party affairs. Of course, it is true that power tussles within the Congress are notorious but it would be a folly to think that the party is just that  an arena of endemic infighting. And it should be conceded that compared to the monolithic ruling party, the BJP, the Congress is seething with rivalries from inside, and it is quite good for political democracy. The BJP is both disciplined and mindless.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the self-appointed source of all thinking and articulator of whatever there is in the party and its ideation. In contrast, the Congress is doing some real thinking on the national agenda, though it might turn out to be ineffective if the party fails to win in the 2024 general election.

But no one can deny that there is a need to apply ones mind to the many challenges at the political level, and talk about them intelligibly and intelligently.

So, there is much more to the Congress carnival at Raipur than the speeches of Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Rahul Gandhi, though all the three spoke well and in different tones. Sonia Gandhi remains an admirable European social democrat who can speak with conviction about liberty, equality and fraternity. The only other Indian politician who uttered these words with conviction was Babasaheb Ambedkar. Priyanka and Rahul, in their speeches, reflected the Nehruvian impetuosity with their impatience with party conventions and rituals of resolutions.

But that is not a problem as long as there are others in the party who are doing the job of thinking on policy and ideas. In more ways than one, the apparently lackadaisical Congress president, Mallikarjun Kharge, connects the "leaders" with the party organisation, a job that Sonia Gandhi managed over the past two decades.

The major shift in the Congress thinking is on the economic policy front. Former finance minister and economic reforms torch-bearer in the party Palaniappan Chidambaram made a radical confession. He said that half of India was left behind as the country became a market economy in 1991, and a new middle class emerged and prospered, while economic inequality increased. He spoke with passion about the plight of the poor, and he told the party that from this day onward the goal should be to take care of the poor, provide them with opportunities. He said that it was now time to shift the economic agenda somewhat, after nearly 40 years of economic reforms. But the economic liberaliser that he is, he did not suggest going back to the socialist economy.

He argued for extending the benefits of the market economy to the 700 million people who got "left behind". It is fair enough to counter and say that like a good politician, Mr Chidambaram is shedding crocodile tears for the poor as is the Congress wont. But for the Congress to admit openly and loudly that there needs to be a change of direction shows the political maturity of the party to understand the existing situation and respond to it. Thats why the economic resolution reflects an important facet of the Congress, that it is politically realistic.

The bench strength of good minds in the party is far superior to that of the BJP.

It is also a subtle adaptation of Congress economic policies since the days of P.V. Narasimha Rao, who was a reluctant reformer at best, and Dr Manmohan Singh, who again was not a market fundamentalist. Rahul Gandhi has been echoing the populism of Indira Gandhi in talking about the poor in India. The economic resolution has provided the rationale for his instinctive talk. It is a known fact that market economies everywhere in the world are in trouble, and there is a need to respond to the crisis.

The Congress economic resolution is a good example of answering the question of market crisis in the Indian context. The BJPs wonks are clueless about the global economic nightmare as they are, essentially, intellectually challenged.

The resolution on international relations has displayed a fine sense of pragmatism. It acknowledged the importance of the Indian diaspora, and it said that it would revive the ministry for overseas Indians, which has now been reduced to a division of the ministry of external affairs. It has also emphasised the need not to identify the diaspora with Hindu nationalism in the BJP manner, and respect the diasporas talent and position in their adopted societies. This removes the dangers of extra-territorial nationalism which the BJP has been promoting, and which could prove counterproductive to Indians living abroad. More important, the resolution talked about the need to increase the budget and expand the MEAs personnel overseas to enable India to play its proper role as an emerging power in the global configuration. It is quite likely that this is Shashi Tharoors contribution to the resolution.

In the political resolution, the party talked of amending the Constitution to strengthen the freedom of the press as part of the freedom of speech enshrined in the Fundamental Rights. This is a detail that is likely to attract derision from the media but given the fact that the government has been clamping down on press freedom in a thousand small and invisible and not so invisible ways, the Congress desire to defend the freedom of the press should come as a breath of fresh air. Even if it fails to fulfil its promise, it is possible to hold the Congress to its commitment. The BJP-NDA government is only too eager to crack down on the press in the name of anti-national activities.

Not many people in the country, in political circles as well as in the media, will take the Congress resolutions very seriously. But the resolutions are out there in black and white and in the open, and they can contribute qualitatively to a largely degraded political discourse that has become the paradigm. These resolutions will outlast the headlines about the domineering Nehru-Gandhi family and a marginalised party president.
Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

Washington: Given Russia's experience in its war with Ukraine, US intelligence chief William Burns on Sunday said that there appear to be doubts in Beijing about China's ability to invade Taiwan successfully, reported DW News.

However, he said it was still important to take the threat to the island "very seriously." CIA chief said that the potential use of force was likely to grow by the end of the decade and into the next.

Burns, in a television interview, stressed that the US must take "very seriously" China's President Xi Jinping's desire to ultimately control Taiwan even if military conflict is not inevitable.

"President Xi has instructed the PLA, the Chinese military leadership, to be ready by 2027 to invade Taiwan, but that doesn't mean that he's decided to invade in 2027 or any other year as well," said Burns

"I think our judgment at least is that President Xi and his military leadership have doubts today about whether they could accomplish that invasion," he added.

Burns said it appeared likely that Russian President Vladimir Putin's setbacks during the invasion of Ukraine may have informed Beijing's sentiments, reported DW News.

"I think, as they've looked at Putin's experience in Ukraine, that's probably reinforced some of those doubts," Burns said.

The US and its allies have been wary of Beijing's response to the invasion of Ukraine, with some officials warning that a Russian victory could embolden China in its plans toward Taiwan.

China has never renounced the use of force to take control of the self-ruled island, which it considers to be a wayward province. China has not condemned Russia's war in Ukraine and has not called it an "invasion."

Taiwan and China split in 1949 after a civil war that ended with the Communist Party in control of the mainland. The self-governing island acts like a sovereign nation yet is not recognized by the United Nations or any major country.

In 1979, President Jimmy Carter formally recognized the government in Beijing and cut nation-to-nation ties with Taiwan. In response, Congress passed the Taiwan Relations Act, creating a benchmark for a continuing relationship, reported VOA News.

Taiwan has received numerous displays of official American support for the island democracy in the face of growing shows of force by Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.

President Joe Biden has said that American forces would defend Taiwan if China tried to invade. The White House says US policy has not changed in making clear that Washington wants to see Taiwan's status resolved peacefully. It is silent as to whether US forces might be sent in response to a Chinese attack, reported VOA News.
Britain and the European Union on Monday agreed a crucial overhaul of trade rules in Northern Ireland, a breakthrough aimed at resetting seriously strained relations since Brexit.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen adopted the deal at talks in Windsor, west of London, both sides said.

Their meeting followed more than a year of tense negotiations over the "Northern Ireland Protocol", which has unsettled the province 25 years on from a historic peace deal that ended three decades of armed conflict.

Agreed in 2020 as part of Britain's EU divorce, the pact kept the province in the European single market for physical goods and subject to different customs rules than the rest of the UK, angering pro-UK unionists there and eurosceptics in London.

Read | UK-EU Brexit fix: What's at stake?

The UK government had threatened a unilateral overhaul of the protocol unless the EU agreed to wholesale changes, souring diplomatic ties and risking a wider trade war, but that prospect now appears to be receding.

"I'm looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend," von der Leyen said as she left Brussels ahead of the talks.

The EU chief was also set to meet King Charles III while in Windsor, stoking accusations in the UK that Sunak was trying to project royal endorsement of the expected deal.

It is likely to face opposition from Brexiteers, including Sunak's potentially rebellious predecessor Boris Johnson, and from lawmakers representing the pro-British unionist community in Northern Ireland.

Sunak's spokesman insisted the monarch's meeting with von der Leyen was decided by Buckingham Palace.

Sunak and von der Leyen, who met at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor, are due to hold a short mid-afternoon press conference. The UK leader -- who only took power in October -- will then make a statement to parliament scheduled for 6:30 pm (1830 GMT).

The agreement ends a long chapter of talks between London and Brussels, under the direction of three different British prime ministers and the cloud of the war in Ukraine.

It is seen as long overdue to help stabilise both Northern Ireland and the wider UK's post-Brexit relationship with its European partners.

The protocol has faced staunch opposition from the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the largest pro-UK party in Northern Ireland, which argues that it threatens the province's place within the UK.

London has been pressing Brussels to agree a "green", check-free lane for goods coming from the rest of the UK that are intended to stay in Northern Ireland, without heading into Ireland and the EU's single market.

The deal would also reportedly limit, but not scrap, oversight of the protocol by the EU's European Court of Justice.

The DUP is particularly angered by the prospect of EU law retaining a role in Northern Ireland, and its response in turn could determine how Conservative eurosceptics in London react.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson, who has been refusing to re-enter a power-sharing government in Belfast set to be led by pro-Irish nationalists, tweeted that the party would "take our time to consider the detail".

Former cabinet minister and Johnson loyalist Jacob Rees-Mogg told ITV: "I'm not sure he (Sunak) has achieved the objective of getting the DUP back into power-sharing, which is the fundamental point of it."

The UK, which is grappling with low economic growth and its worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation, is seen as eager to reset relations to boost trade.

The government in London is also under pressure to restore power-sharing in Belfast, with the 25th anniversary of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement looming large.

Northern Ireland has been without a devolved government since February last year due to the DUP's boycott.

In the Northern Irish border city of Newry, some residents were eager for a breakthrough and the restoration of power-sharing.

"We need things to get going again, we need to get this sorted out," Vincent Ward, 53, told AFP.

Joe O'Hanlon, 63, added it was "about time" that elected leaders "got their act together".
While Congress has not approved their 2023 budget just yet, the United States Air Force hopes to receive it by October, when the new fiscal year begins. In the meantime, the agency has requested lawmakers do what is necessary to allow them the awarding of a E-7 Wedgetail contract to Boeing, even if the federal government is still operating on a continuing resolution.

At present, the USAF hopes to sign this deal with the aircraft maker for new E-7 aircraft by Februaury of 2023. According to USAF Program Executive Office Digital leader Steven Wert, Congress has consistently failed to pass appropriation bills before the October 1st deadline over the past twenty years. Instead, the government has tried to solely rely on continuing resolutions in order to avoid a government shutdown, which delays these advancements.

Prolonging the already CR extension into the new year would easily delay the Air Force from commencing any new work on programs like E-7. This includes, of course, solidifying a contract within an established time frame.

During a roundtable discussion at the Air Forces Life Cycle Industry Days conference, Wert says they presently have a new-start, above the threshold reprogramming request they are working through the system, in addition to a CR anomaly they are triying to figure out. All of this is intended to offer more flexibility, if it is approved, of course.

Wert goes on to say, That new start reprogramming would give us the flexibility to potentially speed it up somewhat. Its not going to be a dramatic speed up, but were doing everything we can.

Now, the Air Force may not receive the concessions they are requesting, but it would still be possible to finalize a contract with Boeing in February if lawmakers can pass an appropriations bill. Wert adds, In most years, CR is resolved by that point, adding that the USAF has greatly improved its ability to sidestep any budgetary obstacles brought on by annually continuous resolutions.
This week, the United Kingdom published a five-year maritime strategy focusing on improving their naval navigation freedom within the Indo-Pacific. Among the important components, the new strategy aims to officially recognizeand addressenvironmental threats like illegal fishing as imperative maritime security concerns.

According to the document It is estimated that IUU fishing activities are responsible for the loss of [between 11 and 26 million tons] of fish each year, with a global value of between $10 [and] $23 billion a year. It is imperative that measures are strengthened to tackle IUU fishing in order to support the UKs own global maritime security.

Leaders among five government departments, including defense, authored the document which specifically points to Russian aggression towards Ukraine (in the foreword) and characterizes the timeliness of the publication. In addition, they write that separating from the European Union has provided the UK with an improved ability to develop necessary policies and strategies which better represent both the values and priorities that are most important to Brits.

In a statement, published parallel with the document, UK secretary of state for transport Grant Shapps explained, Our new maritime security paves the way for both government and industry to provide the support needed to tackle new and emerging threats and further cement the UKs position as a world leader in maritime security.

Among the priorities listed in the strategy document, the government aims to deploy two Offshore Patrol Vessels to increase their maritime presence in the Indo-Pacific. The UK also wants to establish something they are calling a UK Centre for Seabed Mapping to cross-government coordination and collaboration with the fishing industry as a means to increase not just the quality and quantity of data within the marine domain, but also the availability of that data.

Shapps goes on to say, Mankind has better maps of the surface of the moon and Mars than of our own ocean. To ensure the UKs maritime security is based on informed and evidence-based decisions, we must build our knowledge of this dynamic ocean frontier.
Passengers from Shanghai line up to take a COVID-19 antigen test at Narita airport near Tokyo on Jan. 2023. AP-Yonhap



Japan is easing its coronavirus border measures for tourists from China beginning Wednesday by testing only random passengers, a top government spokesman said Monday.



Since December, Japan has been testing all travelers from mainland China at four designated airports on grounds of surging infections in that country and a lack of information. Visitors from China are also required to show a proof of pre-boarding negative test.



Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a news conference that as of Wednesday, only random testing will be carried out on passengers from China.



The change is intended to "promote smooth international travel" taking into consideration relatively low infection rates among arrivals over the past two months, Matsuno said. All samples analyzed at the border were of the omicron strains, which are already found inside Japan, he said.



Proof of pre-boarding negative test will still be required, he said.



Direct flights from China, currently only allowed to land at Narita, Haneda, Chubu and Kansai, will be expanded to other airports.



China, which lifted its "zero-COVID" policy in December, retaliated for the stricter border measures imposed by Japan and South Korea by temporarily suspending short-term visas for the nationals of the two countries. China has since resumed issuing visas in Japan.



Korea has already removed entry restrictions for short-term travelers from China since the beginning of January, as officials saw the pandemic in China being stabilized.



Japan plans to largely relax its mask-wearing requests on March 13 and leave it up to individuals. It will also downgrade COVID-19 to the equivalent of seasonal influenza in May. (AP)


When Huntington Ingalls Industries rebranded themselves as a global defense contractor a few months agoas, American Shipbuilder HIIthey may not have known they would have a Pentagon contract so soon. However, that is the story this week as the firm announced the development of a new Mission Technologies division that already has many exciting projects underway, which includes assisting the Pentagon in uniting several of their more urgent needs.



Previously the largest shipbuilders in the US, HII leaders very recently spoke about the need for the United States to strengthen their seafaring military presence beyond what exists with the Navy. In addition, they hope to effectively leverage the new division to update and fortify their Ingalls Shipbuilding and Newport News Shipbuilding programs.



American Shipbuilder HII CEO Chris Kastner recently spent some time among us Pacific Fleet leadership, in Hawaii in hopes of guiding new investments under a new Defense Department contract to demonstrate new technology. He explains there is a common them among all military leadership, which is a desire to comprehend what is available among various departments, including command, communications, computers, control cyber, intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance. They also want to gain the ability to integrate different nodes within the common, existing, operating environment with quick turnaround for the warfighter.



After this recent trip to Hawaii, Kastner is even more convinced the investments the agency has made are sensible since the tools customers would ask for are precisely the tools they have invested in Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, unmanned technology, and Intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance. Integrating all of these things in a common operating alignment is of utmost priority.



HII is uniquely positioned to succeed in this regard, thanks to several acquisitions over the past few years. Indeed, they now have real-world experience in all of the areas mentioned, as well as battle management tools, sensors, and autonomous technology.



However, many of these initiatives are barely in the prototype phase and the military would prefer to have these technologies immediately. This presents a novel opportunity to scale up development, as long as the armed services asking for them can find the budget to accommodate it.




The United States Air Force (USAF) recently announced the awarding of a contract to Raytheon Technologies. Worth upwards of $985 million, this contract will focus on developingand demonstratingscramjet-powered hypersonic cruise missiles.



Most importantly, perhaps, the new contract will transition the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile, or HACM, program from the prototyping phase and towards basic operation as a combat weapon. In addition, the contract will cut the number of companies competing to finish such a weapon from three down to one. Last June (2021), the United States Air Force awarded three separate 15-month SCIFiRE contracts to Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon to work on preliminary hypersonic cruise missile designs.



The company that won the contract and to continue on from this initial round of conception was Raytheon Technologies, who will go on to provide the USAF with its HACM program design. This will allow the military agency to prepare it for integration into fighter aircraft. The hope is that the weapon will be soon available for combat operations.



The USAF has also explained that their plan for the new HACM will be as an air-launched standoff weapon with the capability of hitting high-value targets in hotly contested combat environments. As an air-launch ballistic, the weapon could be fired remotely, from far outside the reach of enemy air defense operations. At the end of the day, the agency hopes to be able to use a functional HACM weapon in combat situations by fiscal year 2027.



Indeed, as USAF Chief of Staff of Gen. CQ Brown notes, HACM is a powerful example of developing and integrating combat capabilities alongside our partners from the beginning. HACM will provide our commanders with tactical flexibility to employ fighters to hold high-value, time-sensitive targets at risk, while maintaining bombers for other strategic targets.



Hypersonic weaponsincluding the HACMcan fly through the air at several times the speed of sound, hence their name. What is more attractive about them, however, is the fact that they can make mid-flight maneuvers, which means they are harder for enemies to track and defend than other types of ballistics.




The U.S. government is the largest customer for many defense companies, providing a significant portion of their revenue. This stability and predictability can be beneficial for both the companies and investors. However, the revenue is mostly dependent on one customer also means that these companies are more susceptible to government spending and policy changes.

Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, and Raytheon Technologies are all major players in the defense industry.

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Lockheed Martin is the largest defense company in the world, and the lead contractor on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, an advanced fighter plane. The company also has a strong research capability and is involved in various other defense-related products. Boeing is best known for its commercial airplanes. Still, its defense business is also significant, with the company producing a variety of aircraft and helicopters for the Pentagon and being involved in space pursuits. Northrop Grumman is known for its stealth bombers and has a large portfolio in space technology. The company is also closely tied to the nuclear triad. General Dynamics is one of the primary military shipbuilders and has a portfolio of tanks and land vehicles and a large IT and services business. Raytheon Technologies is the product of the 2020 merger between Raytheon and United Technologies. The company specializes in defense electronics and missile systems and is involved in various military platforms led by other contractors.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine will likely significantly impact the defense sector in the long term. The conflict has reignited Cold War-era tensions and has highlighted the importance of a strong and modernized military. Initially, defense companies saw an increase in stock prices when the conflict began, but these gains have since been lost.

The conflict will likely lead to increased defense sales in the future through the replenishment of weapons sent to Ukraine and as European allies look to strengthen their military capabilities.

However, its important to note that defense projects tend to have multi-year timeframes, so there is unlikely to be a significant near-term boost in sales due to the conflict.

Additionally, large defense contractors often generate better margins on research and development of new advanced weapons systems than they do from selling one-off missiles or ammunition. If the U.S. government were to deemphasize research to fund active operations, this could be a negative for defense stocks. However, given the importance of research, this seems unlikely to happen.
In early February, the United States Army awarded AM General an $8.66 billion contract to flesh out the services fleet of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles or JLTVs. The contract comes on the heels of a competition to build more vehicles, originally given to Wisconsin-based JLTV specialist Oshkosh Defense. The Army plans to procure a total of 49,099 new trucks.



The military service initiated this competition to address the need to replace its fleet of aging Humvees, ironic since Am General actually makes Humvees. Oshkosh also beat out Lockheed Martin for the original contract.



AM General had originally lost the bid for the first of these machines to Oshkosh Defense in the original JLTV competition back in 2015. The premier contract required five base years, followed by five consecutive, but optional, single-year ordering periods. The aim was to furnish the service with 20,682 JLTVs for the joint force and a host of foreign customers. This contract also included 9,833 trailers for these vehicles.



Accordingly, the Army recently explained the competitive follow-on production contract was always part of its JLTV acquisition strategy from the get-go. However, the agencys focus was always centered on the best value that included the retention capabilities of todays JLTV while also ensuring that it can be upgraded in the future as more technology evolves.



So far, Oshkosh has built roughly 19,000 JLTVs, which have been supplied to the US Army, the Air Force, the Navy, and the Marine Corps. Oshkoshs existing fleet has also outfitted armies in Brazil, Lithuania, Montenegro, and Slovenia. The company remains under contract to manufacture at least another 22,600 vehicles; they also expect a handful of new orders through November of this year. Some of these orders could go to Belgium, Romania, and North Macedonia, as they have already expressed their intent to buy. Greece, Portugal, and the UK could also join these ranks, so to speak.



Since the initial JLTV design, technology has made quite a few leaps. Thus, the Army is adding or improving several capabilities. New features could include anti-corrosion features and anti-idle technology. Improvements inlcude fuel efficiency.
The United States Air Force has recently revealed plans for its next-generation mid-flight refueling tankerthe KC-Zto launch by 2040. According to a USAF update posted online at the end of January, the military service will start conducting new research and analysis to assess potential alternatives for the existing NGASshort for next-generation air refueling systemsin October. Specifically, the agency aims to learn what the whole of the defense industry might want to do; and they have until March 2 to submit their ideas.



With the KC-Z, the Air Force will enter the thirdand finalstage of their tanker recapitalization initiative, a task that has taken ten years to complete. The new additions will join a fleet of KC-46 Pegasus tankersfrom the first stage of this modernization effortwhile the USAF looks to determine the proper way forward.



That new path is the KC-Y, but the Air Force has not decided how they will approach this. One option is to hold an industry competition, with the winner getting the contract. Specifically, the Air Force hopes to hear how any potential contractor would address the militarys goals to improve overall energy and fuel efficiency. Another option could be to forgo the competition and buy additional modified KC-46 Pegasus tankers. More info on this decision will likely come when the service releases its 2024 budget.



The Air Force has also recently detailed how their ideas could restructure how operations manage aerial refueling and which changes would be necessary to improve aerial refueling capabilities in future military conflicts. Such concepts might include higher-risk ideas that would depend, of course, on whether or not the technology would be primed by 2023.



This is just one contingency that brings obstacles to the Air Forces overall modernization effort. While the service has made it clear they intend to focus on bringing tanker fleets into the next generation, budget constraints remain an issue. And despite overarching concerns regarding potential armed conflict with China, these budgetary constraints could push KC-Z tanker production back to 2040 or later.
Several years ago, the United States Air Force had the vision to transform how they conduct mid-air refueling. In fact, they had originally conceived a remote vision system that would accomplish their specific ideas. Unfortunately, the original concepta partnership between the Air Force and Boeinghas not met expectations.



It has been several years since that initial push, and development has paused several times. Boeing had designed the Air Forces previous vision system, the KC-46. This initial project was revolutionary when it first launched in January 2019. Older systems, like the KC-10 Extender followed by the KC-135 Stratotanker, had boom operators observing the tool through a rear window to steer the fueling boom, the latter of which involved boom operators lying on their stomachs to do this. The KC-46 put the operations at the front of the tank and used sensors, cameras, and screens to assist in remote fueling.



While the KC-46 certainly served its purpose when it was first needed, the Air Force found some issues with certain lighting conditions. This week, though, the Air Force and Boeing announced their primary subcontractor has figured out an acceptable solution. That subcontractor is Collins Aerospace, and their new vision system is known as the RVS 2.0.



The new Collins Aerospace RVS 2.0 design utilizes 4k ultrahigh-definition cameras to provide boom operators with sharper, full-color, 3D imaging to guide the refueling arm into the aircraft receiving the fuel. But while the Air Force approved the design a year ago, experts advise that full implementation is still at least two years out.



Part of this, of course, maybe that the RVS 2.0 will be more complex than previous models. For one, it will use six cameras in total. These include a pair of 3D color imaging cameras and a backup pair of the same cameras. It will also have a pair of upgraded infrared cameras. There is also the issue of retrofitting these to the existing fleet, a solution for which the service has not yet identified. The first of the KC-46 deliveries is expected in 2025, but installing the updated system could still take several more years.
The U.S. government is the largest customer for many defense companies, providing a significant portion of their revenue. This stability and predictability can be beneficial for both the companies and investors. However, the revenue... More of this article 
S&P 500 4,137.64 DOW 33,886.47 QQQ 318.57 MarketBeat Week in Review  4/10 - 4/14 Sell every Stock except ONE (Ad) Over and out: Germany switches off its last nuclear plants Macron's unpopular pension plan enacted into French law Sell every Stock except ONE (Ad) China protests US sanctioning of firms dealing with Russia Spanish industry kicks off EU green hydrogen race A 100% Win Rate In 2022 (Ad) US dollar scarcity threatens Bolivia's 'economic miracle' Mediators propose deal in German public sector pay dispute

S&P 500 4,137.64 DOW 33,886.47 QQQ 318.57 MarketBeat Week in Review  4/10 - 4/14 Sell every Stock except ONE (Ad) Over and out: Germany switches off its last nuclear plants Macron's unpopular pension plan enacted into French law Sell every Stock except ONE (Ad) China protests US sanctioning of firms dealing with Russia Spanish industry kicks off EU green hydrogen race A 100% Win Rate In 2022 (Ad) US dollar scarcity threatens Bolivia's 'economic miracle' Mediators propose deal in German public sector pay dispute

S&P 500 4,137.64 DOW 33,886.47 QQQ 318.57 MarketBeat Week in Review  4/10 - 4/14 Sell every Stock except ONE (Ad) Over and out: Germany switches off its last nuclear plants Macron's unpopular pension plan enacted into French law Sell every Stock except ONE (Ad) China protests US sanctioning of firms dealing with Russia Spanish industry kicks off EU green hydrogen race A 100% Win Rate In 2022 (Ad) US dollar scarcity threatens Bolivia's 'economic miracle' Mediators propose deal in German public sector pay dispute
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A North West Regional College (NWRC) graduate who spent the last three years working alongside some of the biggest names the beauty industry, including LOreal head office, has delivered a masterclass at the colleges Limavady campus.

Nuala Mullan from Castlerock now works as a Spa Therapist in the Galgorm Resort in Ballymena, but during her time in Australia she worked in a private spa providing treatments for some of the worlds top celebrities.

She says the skills she learned while studying Level 2 & 3 Beauty Therapy at NWRC were the key to her success in the Beauty Industry, and this week she returned to her former college to deliver a talk in the colleges salon.

Nuala added: I cant say who they are because of confidentiality but when I was in Australia I got to work with some really famous celebrities, as well as the cast of Married at First Sight Australia. It was a brilliant experience.

The skills I learned while in college in Limavady were so important to my success. At NWRC I participated in Worldskills where I was placed first in Northern Ireland and also won the BEA UK Vocational student of the year in Manchester. I won the Eve Taylor Student of the Year and also studied Fashion and Photographic make-up.

Nuala said that when she achieved an A and 2Bs in her A-Levels, people were surprised when she decided to study Beauty Therapy.

I had already completed a night class at NWRC and I knew Id be back, she said. People were surprised when they heard I wasnt going to uni, but I decided I was going to train in the career I loved.

"I think the schools should give more information about further education colleges because there are so many career paths available.

After spending time working in Melbourne, Darwin, and Sydney for brands such as LOreal, La Roche Posay, and EllaBache, Nuala has now returned to her native Castlerock and recently took up a position with the four-star resort the Galgorm.

She said: I feel lucky to be doing the career I love, and I would say to anyone in my position who is thinking about a career in beauty  dont feel pressured to go to uni. I have a lot of friends who went to uni and they are not working in the subjects that they studied.

Theres a stigma around working in Beauty Therapy, but its a brilliant career, to me its not just a job, its a dream career.

To find out more about course at NWRC come along to Open Days at Strabane (Derry Road) on Tuesday, February 28 from 12 pm to 8 pm, Derry (Strand Road and Springtown) on Wednesday, March 1 from 12am to 8pm and Limavady (Main Street and Greystone) on Thursday, March 2 from 12pm to 8pm.

For more information on the NWRC Open Days, please log on to www.nwrc.ac.uk/opendays where you can register your attendance for the chance to win an iPad.
Speaking after the announcement that the UK and EU have reached an agreement over the Northern Ireland Protocol, Derry Chamber President Selina Horshi said: It is positive news that the EU and the UK have reached an agreed deal over the NI Protocol after months of negotiations.

"This has been a turbulent period for businesses, and clarity and certainty are welcome. While we await the full legal text of the agreement, the efforts of UK and EU officials and ministers must be commended in getting us to this point.

We are hopeful that this new agreement will further smooth trade for local businesses, iron out any of the problems for traders, and bolster our unique market position which guarantees this part of the world access to the European and British markets.

"However, above all, we are hopeful that this deal now paves the way for the full and speedy return of the Executive and Assembly at Stormont.

Local political decision-making has been stalled for long enough.

"We hope that this deal means our MLAs who were elected nearly one year ago can get back to work and start delivering progressive legislation and fresh policies for businesses and households across Northern Ireland.
An online portal has opened to help 28,000 households to access the 600 energy support payment.

Most households accessed the payment through their electricity supplier.

But an estimated 28,000 households without a direct relationship to a domestic electricity supplier have so far missed out.

These include park home residents, people living in care homes and households who get their energy through a commercial contract.

They will now be able to apply for the payment via an online portal, for a telephone helpline for those without access to the internment.

The money includes a 400 payment as part of a UK-wide support scheme and an additional 200 in recognition of Northern Irelands dependence on home heating oil.

Minister at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Amanda Solloway, described the online portal as the final piece of the puzzle in rolling out the payment.

Its simple and easy to do and I want every household entitled to this to get your application in as soon as possible, she said

The sooner you do, the sooner help can get to you.

Northern Ireland Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris said it is welcome news for those who have missed out on a payment so far.

I urge all those eligible to apply online or to get in touch through the telephone helpline as soon as possible, he said.

Geoff Nuttall, head of policy and public affairs at Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA), also welcomed the move.

NICVA is pleased that people with no direct route to receiving help through an energy supplier will now get help through this new BEIS scheme.

This intervention will provide some much-needed support at a difficult time, he said.

Our members have told us the difficulties they and the people they support are facing every day and how hard the sector is working to help people.

The rising cost of living is affecting everyone, but we know it impacts the most vulnerable in our society even more.

Especially if theyre not connected to the networks through which others have already received support.

We welcome this new scheme to ensure much needed help reaches them too.
The King will host EU chief Ursula von der Leyen at Windsor Castle despite warnings that the meeting will drag the monarchy into the political announcement of a new Brexit deal.

Charles and the European Commission president will sit down for tea late on Monday after she is expected to sign off on a Northern Ireland Protocol agreement with Rishi Sunak.

There were fears the King, who as head of state must remain politically neutral, might be drawn into the process of the UK and EU agreeing the new deal or be seen as tacitly endorsing it.

Buckingham Palace said Charles was acting on the Governments advice and that their discussions would feature a range of topics.

I cannot quite believe that No10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI. We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.  Arlene Foster DBE PC #ProudofNI. (@ArleneFosterUK) February 27, 2023

Downing Street said it was fundamentally a decision for Buckingham Palace.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and first minister of Northern Ireland, said: I cannot quite believe that No 10 would ask HM the King to become involved in the finalising of a deal as controversial as this one. Its crass and will go down very badly in NI.

We must remember this is not the Kings decision but the Government who it appears are tone deaf.

Conservatives were among those voicing their criticism of the meeting before it was even confirmed, following suggestions the deal would be called the Windsor Agreement.

Leading Tory Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg said it would be a mistake for Ms von der Leyen to meet the King during her visit to the UK.

The former Cabinet minister told GB News: I think the sovereign should only be involved when things have been completed and accepted.

The King gives assent to acts of Parliament when Parliament has agreed, he doesnt express his view on acts of Parliament when they are going through the process.

I think the same applies  that His Majesty should not be involved until there is full support for this agreement.

Sammy Wilson, the chief whip of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which the Prime Minister wants to secure the support of, said the expected meeting risked dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

Downing Street has defended the decision to advise the King to meet Ms von der Leyen, saying Mr Sunak fundamentally believes the final decision was for the King.

He firmly believes its for the King to make those decisions, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said.

He compared the von der Leyen meeting to Charles talking to Polands Andrzej Duda or Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky.

Its not uncommon for his majesty to accept invitations to meet certain leaders, he has met President Duda and President Zelensky recently. He is meeting with the president of the EU today, the spokesman said.

Asked why the final protocol talks were taking place in Windsor, he said: There are a number of occasions when these sorts of talks have been held in significant locations, this is no different.

Topics up for discussion between Charles and the EU chief include climate change and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, though it was unknown if they will discuss Northern Ireland.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so.

Charles and Ms von der Leyen will meet at Windsor Castle once her commitments elsewhere have been fulfilled.
Boris Johnsons controversial legislation to override post-Brexit rules on Northern Ireland has been dumped by Rishi Sunak after he negotiated a new deal with the European Union.

Brussels agreed in turn that it will scrap its legal action against the UK, launched in retaliation over the former prime ministers Northern Ireland Protocol Bill.

Mr Sunak confirmed the move and told MPs that his new deal puts beyond all doubt that weve now taken back control, echoing Mr Johnsons slogan.

Mr Johnson had been warning his successor that scrapping the legislation would be a great mistake.

But Mr Sunak said his new Windsor Framework, finalised with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, means there is no longer legal justification for the Bill.

He told the Commons Mr Johnsons legislation kept the UK under the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice, leaving us open to months, maybe years, of uncertainty, disruption and legal challenge.

The Prime Minister said he will publish new legal advice saying the new deal means the original justification has now fallen away.

In other words, neither do we need the Bill, nor do we have a credible basis to pursue it, he said.

The commission welcomed the UK agreeing to let the Bill, currently stalled in the House of Lords, to lapse at the end of the parliamentary session.

These arrangements, when implemented, mean that there will no longer be grounds for the existing Commission legal proceedings against the United Kingdom relating to the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland, a statement said.

Some had interpreted recent remarks from Home Secretary Suella Braverman, a senior Eurosceptic, as support for Mr Johnsons backing of the protocol Bill.

But, according to Downing Street, she congratulated Mr Sunak and said the new Stormont brake giving the UK a veto over EU law in Northern Ireland is an important measure to help safeguard sovereignty.

Attorney General Victoria Prentis told the Cabinet the legal basis of Mr Johnsons legislation had fallen away now a new deal had been negotiated with the EU.

She said the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill was not a permanent solution and would still leave the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice unaffected in international law, according to the Prime Ministers official spokesman.

She added that the legal basis of the bill, the doctrine of necessity, had now fallen away thanks to the successful negotiation of the agreement.

Former Cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg had also backed Mr Johnsons call, saying the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill had the support of Mr Johnson, who he described as the person who had a mandate from the British voters.
By DCD-Semi

Complexity of modern cars is growing rapidly without a doubt. A lot has happened since Ford T and the times when car was just a fully mechanical experience. Last few decades prove that safety is crucial. Theres no wonder then, that the safety ecosystem based on proprietary certification is a must. But even the best engineer is not capable of taking care of every single design detail. Everyone makes mistakes. Thats why the automotive industry has adopted stringent processes throughout the supply chain. The final product is modularized, but every submodule, consisting of multiple submodules must be properly documented as well. Why? Because every lifecycle detail must be traceable. The most common automotive standard is the ISO26262, that indicates the whole safety development lifecycle, from item definition up to decommissioning.

Click to enlarge

HOUSTON, WEVE GOT A PROBLEM?

On the other side, is the new design and verification flow really not excessive? Let us consider a simple case  a Tesla car accident. Tesla is a manufacturer that can be described easily  from zero to hero. Built from scratch, with keen-on learning engineers, ready to find solutions to encountered problems. Tesla has focused on autonomous cars. But their cars still had some crashes, where the car did work as expected, but still an accident occurred. Why? Due to wrong design assumptions. The engineer cannot rely on the design itself, but the design must consider the working environment context and consider random faults. To gather an objective evaluation of the functional safety of a product the Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) has been introduced. In one sentence - it shows if the design provides a reasonably low level of failures in time (FiT). This one depends on systematic failures and random hardware failures. The systematic failures can be omitted by a change in design, proper design procedures and testing. Random hardware failures cannot be omitted, but the risk caused by a hazard can be mitigated.

Photo: Newport Beach Fire Department

Source: Autoweek.com

DCD has also introduced the safety design flow. As an IP provider we do not consider the whole design, but only the IP design, testing and safety analysis. The DCAN is developed as ISO26262 Safety Element out of Context (SEooC). The SEooC (in the case of the DCAN the soft IP SEooC) is an element developed and analyzed in an assumed context of use, e.g. target FPGA board, memory used, etc. The SEooC is delivered with complete ISO26262 required documentation. Why? To help the system integrator, who must reevaluate the safety analysis based on the target system and the safety analysis of other system elements. The SEooC provides deep knowledge about the DCAN IP, its failure modes, safety mechanisms that enable to reach the required ASIL level, complete Failure Modes Effects and Detection Analysis (FMEDA) with step-by-step instruction to help to integrate the IP into the customers system and to conduct the system-level safety analysis.

Lets now focus on the safety analysis. The main work product is the Failure Modes Effects and Diagnostic (FMEDA) analysis, but it will be described later on. As the input product to the FMEDA analysis, we need to do a Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment (HARA). We need to define the Safety Goal(s) of our design and then ask: what can go wrong? We need to detect most functional failure modes, that can lead to a Safety Goal violation. To do so, one should estimate these three factors:

Exposure  how likely is the case to happen? How possible is the system to fail?

Controllability  what is our ability to control the failure? Is the driver able to handle it?

Severity  how harmful can be the occurrence of the hazard? What harm can be caused to the driver?

Knowing what can endanger the Safety Goal, we need to formulate the functional safety requirements needed to avoid any unreasonable risk for each of the hazardous events. Based on functional safety requirements we need to formulate then, the technical safety requirements, that indicate the safety mechanisms needed for detection of the failure modes.

SAY HELLO TO THE FMEDA

This is a good moment to introduce the FMEDA analysis, which gathers all the information together. FMEDA is done in a form of a table. There is a plenty dedicated software solutions that should help in the analysis. But all of them have one common disadvantage  PRICE, which is (not only) relatively too high. Is the forementioned software the only way? Thanks God not as a simple Excel sheet is good enough for the analysis. Each failure mode in our FMEDA must have a unique ID assigned to it and a description of the possible effect on the analyzed item. In next columns we need to estimate the distribution of permanent and transient failures to calculate their failure rates measured in FiT. This is the failure rate for the particular failure mode in the absence of any safety mechanisms. Then we need to assign whether the failure leads to a single point fault or the multiple point faults. After that we think of the safety mechanisms that can detect the fault and estimate their diagnostic coverage.

The failure rate of a safety-related hardware element i.e. SEooC consists of safe faults failure rate, single-point faults failure rate, multi-point faults failure rate and residual faults failure rate:

The ASIL level is determined by the Single Point Fault metric (SPFM) and Latent Fault metric (LFM):

The table below presents the required metric values to achieve the proper ASIL level:

ASIL B ASIL C ASIL D SPFM 90% 97% 99% LFM 60% 80% 90%

At this moment we cant share more information about the details of the analysis, the safety mechanisms added to DCAN SEooC and metrics calculation, because its the company know-how combined with the ISO26262 knowledge. . Wanna know more? Contact DCDs team, who can help you to find the most appropriate solution.

And last but not least  why its worth to integrate a SEooC in your design instead of to conduct the safety analysis on your own? Herere some tips:

Easy integration

Best IP knowledge by the DCD team

Support (really helpful in possible safety anomaly resolution process)

Time to market

Costs

CONCLUSION

A well-tailored design process with traceable steps and work products is obligatory today. But despite the necessity, it brings also benefits both for the IP provider and integrator. The formalized design procedures at every design lifecycle step, traceable changes, and responsible people, testing and verification as well as the quantitative evaluation, all of that provide best quality products with a lot of added value. It also helps in project maintenance. The integrator benefits in lower time to market, better safety analyze results, easier integration, and support.

If you wish to download a copy of this white paper, click here






OnePlus 11R launched alongside OnePlus 11 in India. It is a stripped-down version but in many ways an important phone from the OnePlus 2023 lineup. Here, we will be taking a look at some of those OnePlus 11R features that make it a phone worth checking out as it goes on sale on Amazon on February 28.

Top 5 OnePlus 11R features

1. OnePlus 11R is powered by Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset. It may be a half-a-gen old processor but is considered to be power-efficient and rather powerful even today.

2. What makes things even cooler is the so-called CryoVelocity cooling system. Its a multi-channel heat dissipation mechanism using a micron-scale 3D capillary structure.

3. OnePlus hasnt skimped on the memory configuration as you can pick the 11R with up to 16GB RAM and 256GB storage option.

4. OnePlus has given a 120Hz LTPO AMOLED display with a 40-120Hz variable refresh rate, 1450 nits of peak brightness, and 100% DCI-P3 colour coverage.

5. Inside the OnePlus, there is a 5000mAh battery with 100W fast wired charging support. OnePlus claims the adapter can give a days worth of juice within 10 minutes of plugging in.

OnePlus 11R price and availability

OnePlus 11R starts at 39,999 for the 8GB+ 128GB model whilst the higher 16GB+ 256GB variant is priced at 44,999. You can grab it from Amazon India tomorrow at 12 PM. The e-commerce store claims it is the most pre-ordered smartphone on Amazon. You can also take part in the OnePlus 11R 5G Quiz, answer some questions and stand a chance at winning a brand new OnePlus 11R 5G.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
At Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona, OnePlus revealed its new concept phone. Aptly called the OnePlus 11 Concept, the phone comes equipped with a new kind of liquid cooling tech called Active CryoFlux. The company detailed how this works. Besides it, we also got to learn more capabilities of the vanilla OnePlus 11 like its compatibility with the Snapdragon SpacesTM XR platform and ray tracing in games.

OnePlus at MWC 2023

1. OnePlus 11 Concept armed with Active CryoFlux

OnePlus calls the Active CryoFlux to be a miniaturized form of the cooling tech within gaming PCs. In effect, it can tamp down the temperature by up to 2.1 during gameplay, thus increasing the frame rates by up to 3 to 4 fps.

And if you are charging the device, the cooling mechanism brings down temps by 1.6, thus reducing the charging time as well by 30 to 45 seconds.

As for the design, heres how OnePlus describes it:

The state-of-the-art Active CryoFlux functions with the industrial-grade ceramic piezoelectric micropumps at the center, connected to pipelines sandwiched between an upper and lower diaphragm. The micropump takes up an area less than 0.2cm2, enabling the liquid to circulation around the pipelines without significantly increasing a phones weight and thickness.

Now, its not just about internal engineering, the company has put some attention to designing the phone to give it a unique look. This includes the glass unibody that is curved by the edges and very thin bezels on the front. The back side imitates pipelines carrying micro-liquid, along with a magnetron-spluttering coating where metal and alloy are deposited in tiny amounts onto the case using an electric field.

Even the circular camera island on the back has got this blue micro-liquid design. The lenses feature an intricate pattern design dubbed Guilloche etching.



2. Snapdragon SpacesTM

OnePlus welcomes developers to use the OnePlus 11 to drive Snapdragon XR2 AR Wireless Smart Viewer using the SpacesTM developer platform. Only time can tell what augmented reality content we will get to see thanks to this.

3. Ray tracing showcase with Perfect World Games

OnePlus 11 also leverages the ray tracing capabilities of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip inside. This is put to test using the Tower of Fantasy game from Perfect World Games.

At the MWC venue in Barcelona, the company has organized experience zones for these and its latest releases like OnePlus 11, OnePlus Buds Pro 2, OnePlus Pad, and OnePlus 45W Liquid Cooler.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
Oppo F21 Pro was launched in April last year with a crazy feature of sporting a microscope lens. Oppo F21 Pro (128GB+ 8GB) was launched at a price of 27,999. Flipkart has come up with discounts on the Oppo F21 Pro offering a 25% instant discount, five bank offers and an exchange offer.

Here are the discounts you can avail on the Oppo F21 Pro on Flipkart:

Flipkart discounts on Oppo F21 Pro

Flipkart has offered a 25% instant discount offering a 7000 instant discount

on the Oppo F21 Pro. This instant discount brings down the price of the phone from 27,999 to 20,999.

After this we have bank offers offering up to 2000 off on the Oppo F21 Pro. Lets check out the bank offers.

10% instant discount on PNB Credit Card, up to 1000.

5% Cashback on Flipkart Axis Bank Card.

2000 Off On ICICI bank Credit and Debit Card Transactions.

2000 Off On SBI Credit and Debit Card Transactions.

Oppo F21 Pro is available on Flipkart with one more offer and that is an exchange offer. The exchange offer can give you a discount up to 20,000 while buying the phone. You can trade in your old phone while buying Oppo F21 Pro and get some more discount.

After availing all these offers, Oppo F21 Pro will cost under 18,999.

Oppo F21 Pro specifications

Oppo F21 Pro is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 640 paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage. It runs on the Android 12 based ColorOS 12.1.

Oppo F21 Pro features a 6.43 AMOLED display with the resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels.The display supports 90Hz refresh rate and is protected by Gorilla Glass 5.

Oppo F21 Pro has a triple camera setup featuring a 64-megapixel primary camera, 2-megapixel microscope lens and a 2-megapixel depth sensor.

It packs a 4500mAh battery with 33-watt fast charging support.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
No 10 has signalled that there could be a potential breakthrough in the Northern Ireland Protocol negotiations as the Prime Minister conducts final talks with the European Union.

Rishi Sunak will meet the European Commission president in the UK on Monday to discuss a range of complex challenges around the Brexit treaty, Downing Street has announced.

After the discussions with Ursula von der Leyen, the Conservative Party leader will brief his Cabinet before potentially announcing to voters and MPs the details of the deal that has been struck.

A meeting of the Cabinet will follow the leaders lunchtime talks, with a joint press conference with Mr Sunak and his Brussels counterpart on the cards afterwards should a pact to fix the issues with the protocol be agreed.

Downing Street said that should there be a breakthrough after months of negotiations, Mr Sunak will give a statement in the House of Commons.

Tory MPs were last week handed a three-line whip instructing them to turn up to Parliament on Monday, raising the prospect Mr Sunak could make an appearance at the despatch box.

While Downing Street has been tight-lipped about where the discussions between Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen will take place, the commissions online calendar suggests they will rendezvous at Windsor.

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to the UK on Saturday to speak to the Prime Minister and then have afternoon tea with the King at Windsor Castle before the plans were cancelled.

At Cabinet on Monday, Mr Sunak will brief ministers, alongside those most closely involved, including Foreign Secretary James Cleverly  who has met regularly in recent weeks with commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic  and Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris.

Announcing the plan for Monday and the potential for a protocol deal to be announced, No 10 officials said: The leaders are expected to meet late lunchtime for final talks.

The Prime Minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.

There will be a Cabinet in the afternoon, where the Prime Minister, Foreign Secretary and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland will update on the talks.

This builds on updates that Cabinet have received throughout the process as the Government has been pushing for a negotiated solution in the best interest of the people of Northern Ireland and intensive engagement over the weekend.

If a final deal is agreed, the Prime Minister and the president of the European Commission will then hold a short joint press conference in the late afternoon.

The Prime Minister will then head to the House of Commons to deliver a statement on the agreement.

Over the past few months, there have been intensive negotiations with the EU  run by British ministers  and positive, constructive progress has been made.

There have been hundreds of hours of talks covering all issues at stake and talking from first principles  what works for Northern Ireland.

The protocol was negotiated by former prime minister Boris Johnson as part of Britains exit from the EU.

To avoid a hard border in Ireland, Mr Johnson agreed that Northern Ireland would remain subject to Brussels rules on goods so that trade could move freely between a member of the blocs single market and a country outside of its remit.

But the added checks and paperwork on goods travelling between Great Britain and Northern Ireland has riled Unionists, with the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) collapsing the Belfast powersharing agreement with Sinn Fein last year in protest at the treatys impact.
Rishi Sunak appears to be on the verge of agreeing a Brexit deal aimed at easing trade friction in Northern Ireland as he enters into final talks with the European Union.

The Prime Minister will meet European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen in Windsor, Berkshire, on Monday to discuss a range of complex challenges around the Northern Ireland Protocol, Downing Street said.

No 10 raised the prospect that the talks could produce a breakthrough moment after months of negotiations with Brussels about fixing the protocol.

The Conservative Party leader, following on from his discussions with the EU chief, is planning to brief his Cabinet before potentially announcing to voters and MPs the details of any agreed deal.

Mr Sunak told the Express.co.uk that should he shake hands with Ms von der Leyen on a pact that works for all, it would show that Brexit truly works and will finish the job.

He added: This deal will work better for business and communities and get goods moving.

It will resolve the issues so we can all move forward. This will give Northern Ireland control of their own destiny. This is something very positive.

But the protocol D-Day comes fraught with risks for the Prime Minister.

If any potential agreement fails to meet the red lines set by the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), it could mean the party continues to abstain from restoring devolved government in Northern Ireland and put him on a collision course with hardline Brexiteers on his own backbenches.

Downing Street has not fully committed to giving Parliament a vote on the agreement, as demanded by the European Research Group (ERG), made up of Eurosceptic Tory MPs.

The Times, however, reported that Cabinet ministers had briefed MPs that they could expect to have their say on at least part of the deal.

The protocol, signed by former prime minister Boris Johnson in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit, with Northern Ireland continuing to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

Prime Minister @RishiSunak and I agreed to continue working in person towards shared, practical solutions under the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. I will therefore meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow in the UK.  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 26, 2023

But the trade barriers between Northern Ireland and Great Britain created by the treaty has created Unionist tension, with the DUP collapsing powersharing in Stormont last year in protest at its impact.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing, including addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

No 10 officials said Mr Sunak would be entering into the talks with Ms von der Leyen looking to return sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland, Downing Street officials said.

He will speak with the EU leader at lunchtime before holding a virtual Cabinet session from Windsor to brief them on what he has managed to secure.

Those most closely involved, including Foreign Secretary James Cleverly  who has met regularly in recent weeks with commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic  and Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, are expected to join him in person.

Should London and Brussels sign-off on a protocol revision, Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen will hold a joint press conference.

Mr Sunak plans to travel to Westminster afterwards to give a statement in the House of Commons.

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to Britain on Saturday to hold talks with Mr Sunak, as well as reportedly meet the King at Windsor Castle for tea, but the plans were scrapped.

If an agreement is announced on Monday, it is not known whether Downing Street plans to revisit the idea of the German politician meeting Charles.

No 10 was reportedly keen, had a protocol solution been unveiled on Saturday, to brand it the Windsor Agreement.

The cancelled plans were seized upon by critics, with the Prime Minister accused by DUP MP Sammy Wilson of dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

There has been little detail from No 10 on what is currently on the table in terms of a fresh pact but Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab appeared to hint at what might be in a new deal during interviews on Sunday.

Mr Raab indicated that reports of check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland were correct and that efforts had been made to give Belfast a role in approving new EU laws that would apply to the province.

The Leave campaigner said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a substantial scaling back of the role of the European Court of Justice (ECJ), but he refused to rule out it having a say on future legal cases.

The continued application of Brussels-made laws and the influence of European judges in Northern Ireland after Brexit has irked Tory Eurosceptics and the DUP, putting Mr Sunak at risk of a backbench revolt if he calls a vote on a deal that permits either.

He is likely to win any division but Mr Sunak is keen to avoid needing Labour votes, with the Opposition party supporting a revised deal, to secure victory.

A Government source quoted by The Times said the Prime Minister had obtained far-reaching concessions from the EU.

The newspaper said that Northern Ireland may still have to follow future EU rules but that they would only be imposed after consultation with London and Belfast.
Sinn Fein Party Chairperson Declan Kearney MLA, who is Chair of the Partys Commission on the Future of Ireland has announced that the next Peoples Assembly will be held in the Carrickdale Hotel on 30 March.

Declan Kearney said that, the Carrickdale Peoples Assembly will be the fourth public meeting to be held by the Commission on the Future of Ireland. The previous three in Belfast, Derry and most recently in Donegal were all packed events and warmly welcomed and enjoyed by those who participated.

"The key aim of the Peoples Assemblies is to provide citizens with an opportunity to have their say on the future shape and direction of constitutional change and the merits of a united Ireland.

"All of those held to date provided lively and informative debates on the failure of partition; the advantages of greater all-Ireland co-operation; and the positive potential for jobs, health provision, the environment and the economy that will result from the creation of a new Ireland.

The eventbrite link for booking a place is now live and can be accessed here.

Louth TD Ruairi O Murchu said; This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. Its provisions provide for referendums that will allow the people of the island of Ireland to decide our own future and to achieve unity peacefully and democratically. I am looking forward to the Carrickdale Peoples Assembly and the opportunity for people to have their say on constitutional change.

Newry Armagh MLA and former Minister for Finance Conor Murphy described the Carrickdale Assembly as a unique and innovative event bringing together citizens, as well as business, community, sporting and farming representatives from Armagh, Down and Louth to examine the disastrous impact of partition on border communities and to explore the potential offered by Irish Unity.

Louth TD Imelda Munster said: The Commission on the Future of Ireland is inviting contributions from anyone with an opinion on the future of Ireland. Currently the Commission has already received over 150 written contributions from a wide range of organisations and individuals. If you wish to Have your Say on the future of Ireland you can do so at www.sinnfein.ie/ futureofireland

South Down MP Chris Hazzard today urged people to sign up with eventbrite at https:// ArmaghDownLouthAssembly. eventbrite.ie and come to the Carrickdale Hotel and participate in what is a growing and exciting conversation on the future of Ireland.

"One feature of all of three meetings that have taken place so far is the unanimity of agreement on the need for the Irish government to establish a Citizens Assembly to begin the work of planning for the future. If the Brexit debacle has taught anything it is the madness of not preparing for significant constitutional change.
Louth laughs started as a passion project for local comedian Shinanne Higgins and has gone from strength to strength since its inception last July in The Tipsy Cow.

Shinanne aimed to set up a monthly comedy gig that would provide a space for well known acts and also give opportunity to new acts to perform.

So far she has brought big names to her stage, including local comedian, Lisa Casey and Joe Rooney, of Father Ted fame, who will take to the stage this May.

She has also had all three of the Best New Comedians (Patrick McLoughlin, Jordan Robinson and Brian Guilfoyle) from the recent Bray Festival on her stage.

Shinanne performs regularly around Ireland and this has allowed her to keep a firm pulse on the best up-and-coming comedians in the country. This that has helped Louth Laughs become a firm favourite among Ireland`s top comedy nights.

Local comedian Elizabeth Redmond said:

"I knew Shinanne was creating something special when she set up Louth Laughs and that it was going to be a terrific venue, and it is!

"It's a fun and intimate room where the comedians and audience feel like they are coming together as a team to enjoy a great night.

"It's the kind of place that you can go by yourself or in a big group because Shinanne makes everyone feel welcome. Louth Laughs is really creating a buzz on the Irish comedy circuit at the moment".

To celebrate International Women's Day Shinanne is bringing an all-female line-up to Louth Laughs.

Shinanne says:

"I am a huge advocate for women in comedy. Traditionally, comedy was hugely underrepresented by women and we are tired of the trope that women are not funny. Ireland is bursting at the seams with fantastic women in comedy from Aisling Bea to Joanne McNally and Sharon Horgan to name but a few. I've been blown away by the recent surge in top class female comedians . If you don't believe me get down to The Tipsy Cow on 10th March!"

The upcoming Louth Laughs will also be a charity night to raise money for homelessness.

The comedy night has teamed up with Today FM's The Big Busk to raise money for Focus Ireland. Shinanne believes that "homelessness is the greatest issue facing Ireland and is something that greatly impacts women.

"I myself, was living in Dublin until last year and was forced to leave due to increasing rent, and moreover, there are just no places available.

"Luckily, I was able to move home to Louth. I'm currently living in a mobile home and waiting for the day the council tell me I can't stay there.

"For me, it's the only way I can save to buy a home. I have two jobs but no running water. That's the shocking reality of Ireland in 2023!

"I still count myself lucky and would like to support people who are worse off than me."

To support homelessness go on to https://joinus.focusireland.ie/fundraisers/sineadcrilly/ thebigbusk to support homelessness.

"Louth laughs is always run as a free gig because everyone deserve to access great comedy, but if you wish to reserve a ticket for the March 10th event, go on to https://www.eventbrite.ie/ e/louth-laughs-all-female- line-up-tickets-562939054867 to book your place at Louth Laughs and leave a donation if you are able.

"We will also have busking buckets on the night so don't forget to bring your loose change!"

Eight hilarious female comedians will take to the stage on the night.

MC for the night is none other than Shinanne herself. Shinanne Higgins by name shenanigans by nature. She is single, very single...and she's about to turn 40. Her hilarious comedy provides insight into navigating the dating world when your eggs are trying to hold on like an athlete in Ireland's Fittest Family.

Jess Collins is the headline act on March 10th. She is just back from her debut in Las Vegas. She has twice hosted the Galway Comedy Festival. Jess is recently engaged to her partner, whom she met on the popular RTE show First Dates.

Jess will be joined by Rachel Spence, Claire Corrigan, Barbara Neeson, Phyllis Seale and Louth locals Ellen O'Reilly and Elizabeth Redmond. Kick off is at 8:30 but arrive early to ensure a seat.
Louth County Council have announced the launch of a modern new development for social housing tenants at Cuirt na gCloch, Stoney Lane, Ardee.

The scheme includes 14 newly built two bedroom bungalows, which have been designed with the needs of older people, and people with disabilities, in mind.

Features such as level access showers have been included as standard, and all of the units are fitted with air to heat pumps and are listed as A rated BER homes.

A number of the units have also been allocated under the Safe Home Ireland programme, which assists older Irish born emigrants in returning home to secure accommodation in Ireland.

Additional facilities include the installation of two EV charging points within the development.

The housing units were recently acquired from Darra Bridge Housing Ltd. following a Turnkey Expression of Interest call for 2022, and Louth County Council say they are pleased to have secured the properties which are ready for allocation to tenants from the social housing list in the coming days.

Paddy Donnelly, Director of Services, Social Development, at Louth County Council said the new units were a welcome addition to the local authority housing stock.

I am pleased this fine development has been completed and is now ready for occupation by tenants from the approved housing list. Tenants will be delighted with these homes which have been finished to the highest standard.

Joan Martin, Chief Executive of Louth County Council visited the houses at Cuirt na gCloch this week, where she said:

County Louth has been given a very ambitious social housing targets under the governments Housing For All strategy. The council will use every method available, including Louth County Council own build, Turnkeys, Part V units and houses from Approved Housing Bodies.
Marking the opening of the ABB Dundalk R&D Centre in Ireland were (from left) William Dannelly, Product Line Manager  QCS, ABB, Stefano Cinquina, Business Line Manager, Pulp & Paper, ABB, Dara Calleary T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise Trade & Employment, Mary Buckley, Interim CEO, IDA Ireland, Joachim Braun, Division President, Process Industries, ABB, Michael Kerley, Global Technology Manager for ABB Pulp & Paper. Photo: Ken Finegan/Newspics

Today in Dundalk, ABB officially opened a global research and development centre for the pulp and paper industry. The new multi-million-dollar ABB Dundalk R&D Centre is at the heart of ABBs automation and digital offering for the sector and will be home to the ongoing evolution of the ABB Quality Control System (QCS).

New ideas and products will be piloted and managed into the suite of applications for improved quality in the complex world of papermaking, where manufacturers often struggle to balance ever-changing variables to produce paper to customers particular specifications.

This will include solutions for measuring, adjusting, optimizing and controlling quality as the paper web makes its way through the paper machine to form the end-products, including paper and board. ABB says its vision for the centre is to develop solutions that respond to global trends and can meet the sustainability goals of the rapidly evolving industry.

A new QCS, for example, has the potential to reduce annual waste (production losses) by two percent or more per paper machine. This can impact a mill's sustainability goals by also reducing annual emissions for each machine by the same two percent, or 1.1 kt CO2, using the assumption of 57 kt CO2 emissions for a typical paper/board/tissue machine.

This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

This is a very welcome investment in Louth and the wider region, and is an endorsement of the area as an excellent place for businesses to thrive and grow, said Dara Calleary TD, Minister for Trade Promotion and Digital Transformation. ABBs new centre here in Dundalk will support technology advancement in the pulp and paper industry with the creation of up to 30 new highly skilled jobs to the area.

The new R&D facility will provide an exciting space for innovation to help papermakers in areas such as waste reduction, reducing emissions including finding new ways of reaching sustainability goals. The Government is hugely supportive of any new innovations that help us reach our goal of protecting the future of our planet.

Thanks to ABB for their continued investment in Ireland. Congratulations to all the team, and I wish you the best with this exciting new chapter.

The centre will take advantage of modern technologies such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), collaborative robots and Augmented/Virtual Reality for training and field service delivery to better meet the needs of ABBs pulp and paper development team.

The site will also include a new training hub that will provide skills development support for ABB and customers alike, enabling more cross-industry partnerships and collaboration.

ABBs Pulp and Paper business grows year on year, and this investment into our Quality Control Systems development will allow us to sustain our global market leadership and push the industry forward for the next generation of papermakers, said Joachim Braun, Division President, Process Industries, ABB.

With Ireland ranked in the top 10 EU countries for innovation and boasting the fourth-highest international share of workforce in the EU, it is the perfect location for our new R&D site. From this base, we will continue to advance the future of the industry and pioneer new technologies to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

ABB has been a leading employer in Dundalk for 40 years, said Mary Buckley, Interim CEO, IDA Ireland.

This new R&D centre is a significant expansion and is very much aligned to IDA Irelands Sustainability pillar that is central to our current strategy. I wish ABB every success with this multi-million-euro investment.

Louth TD, Fergus O'Dowd welcomed the news that up to 30 high-level jobs will be created over the next three to five years.

He said, this announcement will be well received in County Louth and comes on the same day as IBEC forecasts the Irish economy will now expand by 3.6% this year, an increase on its November prediction of 2%.

Deputy ODowd added, the centre itself will support technology advancement in the pulp and paper industry and the new jobs will focus on research, engineering and sales. Vacancies will be found at job openings at ABB Ireland.

Massive congratulations to everyone at ABB and I look forward to seeing the new centre take shape in the very near future.
Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen are set to sign off on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland as Conservative Eurosceptics warn the devil is in the detail.

The Prime Minister and the European Commission President will hold final talks in Windsor, Berkshire, on Monday before she will controversially go on to meet the King.

But even if long-awaited changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol are agreed it is likely to be only the start of the most challenging week of Mr Sunaks premiership.

He is battling to win the support of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) so they agree to restore powersharing in Northern Ireland to get Stormont back up and running.

After arriving in London on the Eurostar, Ms von der Leyen said she was looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend.

Both Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen have arrived at the Fairmont Hotel in Windsor Park, Berkshire, for the final talks.

Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg put Mr Sunak on notice of a possible Tory revolt if the DUP does not support the deal, despite major concessions expected from the EU.

The former Cabinet minister told GB News: It will all depend on the DUP. If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

Im glad to be in the UK today to meet with Prime Minister @RishiSunak. Im looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend. pic.twitter.com/GuyMzy2wbj  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2023

He said that the position of Boris Johnson, who he described as the biggest figure in UK politics, will be fundamental.

So, if the DUP doesnt think that it meets its test, that will be very influential among Conservative MPs, Mr Rees-Mogg added to ITVs Good Morning Britain.

Im afraid with all the EU deals the devil is in the detail, so when people say we need to see the legal text, they are not larking about, they really want to see it to understand what the effect is.

Arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister who had been on resignation watch, gave Mr Sunak his support.

Leaving No 10, he told broadcasters: I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.

But Charless meeting with Ms von der Leyen at Windsor Castle was criticised as constitutionally unwise by Mr Rees-Mogg because it involves the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and first minister of Northern Ireland, said it was crass and will go down very badly with the unionists Mr Sunak is trying to win over.

Meanwhile, Conservative Eurosceptic Theresa Villiers argued that it is crucial for Mr Sunak to give MPs a vote on the deal, as Downing Street declined to commit to one.

The former Northern Ireland secretary told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I cant conceive of circumstances where something as significant as this could be finally agreed and implemented without MPs voting on it in Parliament.

She said she will consider the deal itself as well as talking to the DUP before deciding whether to support it but stressed the importance of restoring powersharing.

I will be talking to constituents, talking to colleagues and talking to the DUP because I want to see a deal which delivers a return to powersharing in Northern Ireland  thats crucial, she said.

Its intolerable that weve got the protocol undermining political stability in Northern Ireland.

Prime Minister @RishiSunak and I agreed to continue working in person towards shared, practical solutions under the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. I will therefore meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow in the UK.  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 26, 2023

Sir Keir Starmer reiterated his partys support for any deal struck but said the real test now is whether Mr Sunak has got the strength to sell it to his backbenchers or not.

After a speech in the City of London, he said it is almost inevitable that the European Court of Justice (ECJ) will have to play some part after the deal, a contentious point for the DUP.

But he said weve got to make progress on Northern Ireland before making real changes to the wider Brexit deal.

The Prime Minister will speak to the EU chief at lunchtime before briefing his top ministers in a virtual meeting of the Cabinet.

Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen will then set out the deal to voters in a joint press conference before the Prime Minister makes a statement to MPs in the Commons.

Tory Brexiteers on the European Research Group (ERG) will convene MP Sir Bill Cashs so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the deal before deciding whether to back it.

The protocol, signed by Mr Johnson as PM in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit.

Northern Ireland continues to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

But the trade barriers created between Northern Ireland and Great Britain has angered Unionists.

The DUP collapsed powersharing in Stormont last year in protest at its impact, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing.

Chief among them is addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

No 10 officials said Mr Sunak would be entering into the talks with Ms von der Leyen looking to return sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland.

The Prime Minister wants to ensure any deal fixes the practical problems on the ground, ensures trade flows freely within the whole of the UK, safeguards Northern Irelands place in our Union and returns sovereignty to the people of Northern Ireland, Downing Street officials said.

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to Britain on Saturday to hold talks with Mr Sunak, as well as reportedly meet the King at Windsor Castle for tea, but the plans were scrapped.

DUP chief whip Sammy Wilson said the move would have been dragging the King into a hugely controversial political issue.

The deal is expected to include check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a substantial scaling back of the role of the ECJ.

But he refused on Sunday to rule out the court having a say on future legal cases, which could prove to be a flashpoint for DUP resistance.

If Mr Sunak does allow a Commons vote, he is likely to win because Labour has agreed to support it. But he would want to win without relying on Opposition votes.
Rishi Sunak has said his decisive breakthrough on post-Brexit rules will remove trade barriers for Northern Ireland and give the UK a veto on EU law as he seeks the backing of unionists.

The Prime Minister hailed the controversially named Windsor Framework as marking a new chapter on relations with Brussels that he hopes will restore powersharing in Stormont.

But European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the replacement to the Northern Ireland Protocol still includes a role for the European Court of Justice  a key issue for the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).

The pair finalised the long-awaited deal to improve the agreement signed by Boris Johnson more than three years ago after a meeting in Windsor lasting under two hours.

The EU chief went on to have tea with the King at Windsor Castle, despite criticism that the meeting would drag Charles into the politically contentious agreement.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson welcomed significant progress, but said that there remain key issues of concern including the remnants of EU law as his party considers its next step.

Mr Sunak said Parliament will have a vote at the appropriate time, and that vote will be respected after coming under pressure to give MPs a say on the deal.

A key part of the deal is an emergency Stormont brake on changes to EU goods rules that can be pulled by the Northern Ireland Assembly that Mr Sunak said would give the Westminster Government a veto.

The Prime Minister said it is a very powerful mechanism for Stormont to use when it has concerns over EU law.

At a press conference in Windsor Guildhall, the Prime Minister said: Im pleased to report that we have now made a decisive breakthrough.

Together we have changed the original protocol and are today announcing the new Windsor Framework.

Todays agreement delivers smooth-flowing trade within the whole United Kingdom, protects Northern Irelands place in our union and safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said he believes the deal is a turning point for Northern Ireland that addresses the concerns of the DUP, and is now hoping they will back it and restore powersharing in Stormont.

Standing beside the Prime Minister she warmly referred to as dear Rishi, Ms von der Leyen hailed a new chapter in our partnership that will foster a stronger EU-UK relationship.

She said Brussels will immediately start the ball rolling on the UK joining the EUs Horizon scientific research programme, marking a clear thawing of the tensions most visible under Boris Johnson.

Mr Sunak will scrap his predecessors controversial legislation to override parts of his own protocol deal, and in turn Brussels will end its legal action against the UK.

The support of the DUP, which collapsed powersharing last year over the protocol, be crucial for winning the backing of Conservative Brexiteers in the Commons.

Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg warned Mr Sunak of a possible Tory revolt if the DUP does not support the deal, despite major concessions from the EU.

The former cabinet minister told GB News: It will all depend on the DUP. If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

He said that the position of Mr Johnson, who he described as the biggest figure in UK politics, will be fundamental.

A source close to the former prime minister said that he is continuing to study and reflect on the Governments proposals.

But arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister who had been on resignation watch, gave Mr Sunak his support over the really fantastic result.

He told the BBC that reasonable unionists will support the deal, while those who would dig a moat between the North and the South will never be happy.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer confirmed his party will support the deal, meaning Mr Sunak is bound to win the Commons vote, but he will want to succeed without relying on the Opposition.

Charless meeting with Ms von der Leyen was criticised as constitutionally unwise by Mr Rees-Mogg because it involves the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and ex-first minister of Northern Ireland, said it was crass and will go down very badly with the unionists Mr Sunak is trying to win over.

Mr Sunak will travel back to London to make a statement to MPs.

Tory Brexiteers in the European Research Group (ERG) are to meet on Tuesday and will convene MP Sir Bill Cashs so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the deal before deciding whether to back it.

The protocol was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit but means Northern Ireland has continued to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

Unionists anger over the trade barriers in the Irish Sea culminated in the DUP collapsing powersharing in February last year, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly.
Visits will enhance Sino-European ties

08:45, February 27, 2023 By ZHAO JIA ( China Daily

Leaders' plans for trips to Beijing send positive signals on solidarity, cooperation

An upcoming series of visits to Beijing by European leaders will send signals of solidarity and cooperation between China and the European Union, adding positive energy to world peace, stability and sustainable development, officials and observers said.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Saturday that he would visit China in early April, with the Ukraine crisis high on the agenda. Speaking a day after China issued a 12-point position paper on the political settlement of the issue, Macron said, "The fact that China is engaging in peace efforts is a good thing."

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel also might visit China in the first half of the year, with preparations already underway.

Fu Cong, head of the Chinese Mission to the European Union, who struck a very optimistic tone on the recovery of China-EU relations in a recent interview, said the two sides are expected to usher in frequent, high-level mutual visits very soon.

It was also reported that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will visit China this year.

The planned visits show that the Ukraine crisis should not affect the development of China-EU relations, Fu said, suggesting that the EU should avoid being too emotional in dealing with the issue.

The media spotlight has shone on China-EU ties recently. Senior diplomat Wang Yi just concluded his first visit of the year, which took him to France, Italy, Hungary and Russia, as well as Germany for the Munich Security Conference.

China and Europe should dispel external disruptions, properly manage differences and strengthen communication and cooperation when referring to the spillover effects of the Ukraine crisis, said Wang, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on Wednesday after wrapping up his tour.

During his trip, Wang repeatedly expressed China's willingness to seek friendship and expand cooperation, saying China and Europe are partners, not opponents, and constitute opportunities, not threats, for each other.

"I believe China-Europe relations will present a look of positive development this year," Wang told the media, saying that China and the European countries are willing to fully resume institutional dialogue and exchanges in various areas at an early date and expand mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation.

Over the past year, China and Europe have maintained frequent high-level contacts. President Xi Jinping held in-depth exchanges with EU leaders through face-to-face talks, virtual meetings and phone calls more than 20 times, playing a leading strategic role in advancing China-EU ties.

"The upcoming visits by EU leaders not only reflect China's important status in the international arena but also underline the strong resilience of China-EU ties, though they are currently constrained by some factors," said Chen Xulong, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics' School of International Relations.

China and the EU should remove misunderstanding and shore up cooperation, as they share extensive common interests and shoulder great responsibilities for global governance, he said.

As it pursues an independent foreign policy of peace, China cannot fully agree with some of the EU's positions on the Ukraine issue and does not want the issue to affect the development of China-EU relations, Chen said.

Still, China's responsible and constructive role in promoting peace talks on the Ukraine crisis has resonated well in the world and among some European countries, Chen added.

Stephane Dujarric, a United Nations spokesman, said on Friday that China's position paper on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis represents "an important contribution".

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
West Cork TD Holly Cairns is set to become the next leader of the Social Democrats, after announcing her intention to run earlier today.

Last week the partys co-leaders, Roisin Shortall and Catherine Murphy, announced they are to stand down.

The women said that they had spent many months considering stepping aside, but had decided now was the right time to allow for their successor to put their own print on the party before an election.

After being the focus of some speculation in recent days, Ms Cairns announced on social media on Sunday that she will put herself forward to be the next leader of the Social Democrats.

"Im excited to announce that I am putting myself forward to be the next leader of the Social Democrats," she said.

Im excited to announce that I am putting myself forward to be the next leader of the Social Democrats.  Holly Cairns TD (@HollyCairnsTD) February 26, 2023

It is expected Ms Cairns will run unopposed, with other party TDs showing support for her bid.

Wicklow TD Jennifer Whitmore said she backed Ms Cairns bid in a video message on Twitter.

I am delighted to hear that Holly is putting herself forward for the leadership of the Social Democrats and Im here to say Im putting my full support behind her," she said.

"I think Holly would make an incredible leader for the party and Im looking forward to the next chapter."

TD for Dublin Bay North Cian O'Callaghan also ruled out a run for the position.

"Delighted that Holly is going forward to be the next leader of the Social Democrats," he wrote on Twitter.

"Holly will be a fantastic leader and has my full 100 per cent support."

Dublin TD Gary Gannon had previously ruled himself out of the running.

In an interview with Today with Claire Byrne, Deputy Gannon said he planned to show "leadership within the party" but did not intend to put his hat in the ring.

The Social Democrats currently have six TDs in the Dail, and garnered around 2.9% of first preference votes in the 2020 general election.

They won a similar amount of first preference votes in the local elections.

The latest opinion polls put the party at around 4%.
A record of 529 adults are now in emergency accommodation in Cork, according to the latest figures released by the Department of Housing, leading to fresh calls from Cork Simon and others for the eviction ban to be to be extended.

The Monthly Homelessness Report for January 2023 shows an increase of 16% in 12 months in the number of adults in emergency accommodation in Cork leading up to January 2023, and a 5% rise since December 2022. The number of adults in emergency accommodation in Cork and Kerry in January 2023 was 585 people, up 6% in twelve months, and up 4% since December 2022.

Some 747 men, women, and children in the southwest were depending on emergency accommodation in January 2023, up 10% in 12 months, an increase of 5% since December 2022. Women now account for one in every three people (34%) in emergency accommodation in the southwest, up from 28% a year ago.

Cork Simon said the Department of Housings figures reflect the unprecedented pressure on its services.

Our emergency shelter saw a record average of 79 people per night staying in January, a figure that has been slowly but steadily increasing each month since last summer when full capacity was restored following the easing of covid-related health and safety measures, said spokesperson Paul Sheehan. Our emergency shelter is packed to the rafters, every spare floorspace is in use. Our outreach team has been meeting increasing numbers of people sleeping rough, presenting to our day service and depending on our soup run.

Were seeing this level of increasing need despite a Government moratorium on evictions remaining in place. It is due to be lifted at the end of March, in just five weeks.

The Governments moratorium needs to be extended. Not doing so puts a significant number of already vulnerable individuals and families and further risk."

Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, said: It is deeply concerning that in the middle of the eviction ban, we are seeing increases in homelessness. Family homelessness rose in Cork and Kerry over the month with an additional 14 children now sleeping in emergency accommodation.

Figures published in the latest Cork City Council Housing Progress Report show that 74% of people in homeless accommodation were there for longer than six months.

"The Government have sat on their hands throughout this eviction ban instead of taking the necessary actions to ensure people can leave emergency accommodation.

I am getting more worried by the day that, come June, we will be facing a crisis in emergency accommodation in Cork like we have never seen before.

The Government has not made a decision yet on extending the eviction ban, Social Protection Heather Minister Humphreys said at the weekend. The temporary eviction ban has been in place since November and is due to run out at the end of March.

Ms Humphreys said the eviction ban was intended to reduce homelessness, but hasnt worked. She told RTEs The Week In Politics that it is concerning to see the numbers in emergency accommodation rising, but said there are more going out of emergency accommodation than ever before.

Government hasnt made a decision yet on the eviction ban, and (Housing) Minister (Darragh) OBrien is consulting with the Attorney General and it is his plan to bring a proposal to cabinet in the next number of weeks, she said.
Merck Foundation , the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, successfully conducted the second edition of their reporting and engagement tool for their programs 90 Minutes with Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, Merck Foundation CEO 2023 with the aim to update and discuss their programs and its impact and build advocacy to break infertility stigma, support girl education and transform patient care.

The session showcased Dr. Rasha Kelej engagement with Media Members, Merck Foundation Alumni, Merck Foundation Award Winners, Social Media Followers and other stakeholders on 17th February 2023, through a Videoconference to address several critical health and social issues, in addition to sharing her long experience, challenges, solutions and success stories with audiences in social media.

As part of this important meeting, participants explored Senator, Dr. Rashas personal and professional sides through questions about her likes, dislikes, hobbies, personality, education, early life, career, achievements, success stories and challenges she overcame. Additionally, her vision and plans for achieving the objectives of the Merck Foundation, as well as her personal goals, were discussed.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation expressed,

I am extremely happy to receive so much love during the session. 90 Minutes with Merck Foundation CEO , I really appreciate all of you, for giving me an opportunity to share my views, work, life and experience with many of our partners and stakeholders including our alumni, media members, award winners and also our social media followers. During the session, I answered a range of questions, and I was also able to update everyone about our programs and its impact, and the future plans. I hope the information I shared will be beneficial for many and motivate them to reach their potential and fulfill their dreams in life.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej has an experience spanning over 29 years. She has been recognized as One of the 100 Most Influential Africans in the world for 2019, 2020, 2021 & 2022. She has also been appointed as Senator at The Egyptian Senate (2020  2025) and awarded Doctorate of Letters Honoris Causa.

I was impressed with the range of questions that were asked during the meeting. I am happy that my followers and partners want to know more about every aspect of my work  life fusion concept. I feel connected to them after this one-on-one discussion, emphasized Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

During the session, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej responded to each question with utmost grace and transparency. Below is the glimpse of the session.

Can you tell us about your leadership style? asked Dr. Ndikumana Sudi from Burundi.

Dr. Rasha responded,I believe in leading with example. A leadership style should be inspirational but should also be situational. I change my leadership style according to the situation and stage I am in. As a leader, it is very important for one to be alert of the circumstance one is dealing with, the stage we are in because time is very critical. You cannot be the same personality in all situations with everyone at all times. Successful Leadership style should be agile and multidimensional.

If there is a disaster and the crisis have to be managed, one has to be very quick and autocratic. Here, the decision has to be made on time so you take the steering wheel in your hand and just go for it because time is very important and critical in this situation.

When there is a luxury of time, and planning, then it can be dealt in a democratic way. You take opinions, and then chose the best and most suitable opinions and ideas .

But, overall, a leadership style always has to be very inspirational and leading by example. People need to see how you deal with problems, what are your set of work values or ethical values and you set an example with that.

Rebecca Tetteh, PeaceFM from Ghana acknowledged Dr. Rashas work on educating Linda Program. She asked, Its commendable how you work under the educating Linda program as it supports the education of many young, talented African girls. Can you tell us more about it?

Dr. Rasha responded,  Educating Linda is a very basic program where we provide grants to schoolgirls through our local partners to support their education. However, what we do differently is that we use unique ways to raise awareness and build advocacy for the same. We created many songs to promote girl education that can be aired on TV and radios like Girl Can by Irene and Cwezi from Liberia and Ghana, Yes, You Can by Blaze and Tamyris Moiane from Mozambique, Superwoman by Cwezi and Adina from Ghana, Like Them by Kenneth Mugabi from Uganda, and I am Not Anyones Bride, Take Me to School by Wezi from Zambia. We have collaborated with artists around the word to encourage community to support girls education and create a change of mindset towards perception of girls in education through innovative and creative new ways, as we believe in reaching and catching children when they are younger.

We have also launched childrens storybooks like Jacklines Rescue(https://apo-opa.info/3lnbtgy), A Ride into the Future(https://apo-opa.info/3ldlzAo) and Educating Linda(https://apo-opa.info/3log420) to support girl education.

Our Merck Foundation More Than a Mother Awards is also a step towards encouraging communities to empower women and support girl education. So, our program isnt different but our ways of advocating the social issue are novel.

The meeting was also live streamed on Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej Facebook page (https://apo-opa.info/3Zxm3R1), Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej Twitter handle (https://apo-opa.info/3jVPzAw) and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej Instagram page (https://apo-opa.info/3YSasvq).

After the success of the first livestream meeting, I have received request from many of our stakeholders to conduct a series of similar engaging meetings often. I am planning to do conduct such meeting on a regular basis. Stay tuned to know about the next session!, added Dr. Kelej.

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ARTWORKS inspired by a John Spillane song will serve as the focus of a new exhibition being launched at County Hall.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Independent Councillor Danny Collins, said he is delighted to welcome the exhibition titled Roaming to Library Headquarters (LHQ) Gallery, Cork County Hall.

The free exhibition includes artwork by Cork-based artists Mary Bowen Galvin, Colm Brady, Jaclyn Hargreaves, Catherina Hearne, Diane Magee, Sean McGuill, Noel OCallaghan, Cliodhna ORiordan, Latisha Reihill and Ben Reilly.

It follows a call out to the artists who were challenged to respond to lyrics from the song The Long Way Home.

Holding, J Hargreaves

A verse from the song reads as follows: And if you take the long way, if you take the long way home, down where the magicians and the dreamers roam, through the mountains of morning, through the valleys of night, searching for the island of your hearts delight.

Mayor Cllr Collins is encouraging everyone who can to visit Roaming and said: This exhibition showcases the incredible talent our Cork artists and highlights the importance of art in our community.

"It was especially interesting to see how the unique interpretations of each artist developed into a range of varied, magnificent artwork.

"The songs, stories and poems of John Spillane encapsulate what it means to be from Cork so it seemed very fitting to use his lyrics as a prompt for this exhibition of Cork based artists.

The exhibition will be opened by John Spillane himself on Thursday, March 2, at 6pm in LHQ Gallery, Cork County Library.

It will be a melting pot of artistic mediums including paintings, sculpture and mixed media.

Roaming runs until Friday, March 24, 2023. The gallery will be open from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5.30pm.

The LHQ Gallery is funded by Cork County Council and The Arts Council of Ireland.

The Long Way Home is just one of many songs from John Spillanes repertoire. His most recent album As in Another Light was released in October of last year. It features songs from 1983 right up to his 2021 release 100 Show White Horses.

The album includes performances from Pauline Scanlon, conducted by John OBrien and orchestrated by Kevin Codd, Paul Frost, Daniel Murphy and Robbie Pender.
County Firefighters worked through the night to control blazes on the Mizen Peninsula after significant flames were spotted on Mount Gabriel over the weekend.

Fine Gael Councillor Caroline Cronin said the fires were burning on Sunday evening and could be seen from Schull town.

It was very bad on the Mizen peninsula, you could see the fires from Goleen and Schull.

Cork County Council outlined how they were alerted to the fires. Schull Fire Brigade assisted by Dunmanway Fire Brigade was called to the Irish Aviation Centre in Mount Gabriel at 20:48 on Sunday, by Gardai in Schull as the fires came very close to the Radar Installation and buildings. Crews extinguished the fire near the installation using water from their appliances. (The blaze came close enough to activate the fire alarm installation in the buildings, but the fire did not damage them).

Ms Cronin said she was concerned for the wildlife and also the firefighters who were working to put out the blaze.

I commend the firefighters for working tirelessly to control the fire.

Over the weekend, Cork County Council Fire Crews in West Cork responded to over 20 gorse/vegetation fires primarily in the Mizen and Beara Peninsulas with all six fire brigades (Bantry, Castletownbere, Schull, Skibbereen, Dunmanway and Clonakilty) involved.

Mount Gabriel fire. Pic: Cork County Council.

A statement from Cork County Council described the fires.

Crews worked hard in very challenging conditions for long hours tackling these fires, some of which came very close to private houses, with all houses protected. Fire crews contended with very heavy vegetation cover together with strong winds, which made it very difficult to fight the fires.

The local councillor said it was hard to see the damage caused by the flames.

Nobody likes to see the natural beauty of the mountains destroyed. West Cork Fianna Fail TD Christopher OSullivan said emergency services were under severe pressure.

I've seen the images from Schull. The fire was clearly out of control and if intentional then it's completely irresponsible.

County fire services are completely stretched as it is in responding to incidents. When they have to put themselves at risk dealing with hillside fires it means they can't respond to other emergencies.

The strong winds were forecast, it was always going to be an issue.

Cork County Council highlighted the danger and risks associated with uncontrolled fires.

Uncontrolled fires pose a danger to wildlife, property, infrastructure, the environment and potentially, human life. They can be a significant and prolonged draw on fire service resources and may compromise the ability to respond to other incidents such as road traffic collisions or domestic fires. The local authority also emphasized the legislative restrictions around burning vegetation.

The burning of vegetation is controlled by the Wildlife Acts. It is an offence under Section 40 of the Wildlife Act, 1976 (amended by Section 46 of the Wildlife Act, 2000) to burn, from 01 March to 31 August in any year, any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated. Individuals who are found to burn vegetation within that prohibited period are liable to prosecution by An Garda Siochana or by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
A new run of a play which examines the effects of suicide has been launched in Cork.

The play, Bring Me Back Alive, is the work of Dublin playwright Patricia McCann, and is produced by Shine A Light Suicide and Mental Health Awareness and ActorsVision, and had previously been performed in schools across Cork city and county.

The play was launched at the ActorsVision studio on St Patricks Quay by Fianna Fail Councillor Fergal Dennehy, deputising for Lord Mayor Deirdre Forde.

Mr Dennehy praised Shine A Light for relaunching Bring Me Back Alive.

The play is very thoughtful and thought-provoking, and its getting the message out there, particularly to young people and those that might be vulnerable, that its okay to reach out and its okay to talk, he said.

The plays author, Dublin playwright Patricia McCann, said the play helps those contemplating suicide, but also those left to deal with the aftermath of suicide.

There had been so many suicides in my own area, in the inner city of Dublin, that I decided I had to do something, Ms McCann said.

The play has been going thirteen years now, and its been seen by some young people who wouldnt normally be theatre-goers and some have come to it six and seven times.

"Thousands have seen the play, weve performed in schools and colleges as well as theatres and community halls. One woman who saw it in a church said I left that church feeling that I didnt have to live with guilt anymore.

Sinn Fein councillor Mick Nugent, who is a long-time member of Shine A Light Suicide and Mental Health Awareness, said it was great to be at the relaunch of the play at the ActorsVision premises on St Patricks Quay.

Were hoping over the next few months to get the play back out to schools, and well be advertising the schedule soon, Cllr Nugent said.

Joe DAlton, who is a board member of Shine A Light, said it was good to relaunch the play after a three-year lay-off caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

On April 1, Bring Me Back Alive will be part of the Lifelong Learning festival, and details will be on our Facebook page. Seating is limited, so it will be first come, first served, Mr DAlton said.

For further details, see the Shine A Light Suicide and Mental Health Awareness Facebook page.

If you are affected by any issue in this article, please contact Pieta House on 1800-247247 or text HELP to 51444; or Samaritans can be contacted 24/7 on freephone 116 123 and email at jo@samaritans.ie.
Patrick Daly, PA Political Correspondent

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen will hold face-to-face talks with British prime minister Rishi Sunak in the UK as they look to finalise a deal to fix issues with the Northern Ireland Protocol.

In a joint statement on Sunday, they confirmed Ms von der Leyen and Mr Sunak will meet to discuss the range of complex challenges around the protocol.

It comes after speculation mounted that a deal could be announced imminently, with both sides stating they are on the cusp of striking an agreement over the weekend.

Today, president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and prime minister of the United Kingdom, Rishi Sunak, agreed to continue their work in person towards shared, practical solutions for the range of complex challenges around the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

President von der Leyen will therefore meet with the prime minister in the UK tomorrow.

Speculation has been rife for the past week that the EU and UK are about to announce a plan designed to solve trade frictions caused by the protocol.

Ms von der Leyen had been due to travel to the UK on Saturday to hold talks with Mr Sunak, as well as meet Britain's King Charles III at Windsor Castle, but the plans were scrapped.

The latest announcement opens the door for a potential unveiling of fresh protocol terms during the German politicians visit on Monday.

Prime Minister @RishiSunak and I agreed to continue working in person towards shared, practical solutions under the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.



I will therefore meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow in the UK.  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 26, 2023

Speaking to The Sunday Times on Saturday, Mr Sunak said he planned to work all weekend to nail down revised terms as he looks to keep hardline Conservative Brexiteers and the DUP on side.

He told the newspaper he was giving it everything weve got to finalise a fix for the protocol, a Brexit treaty negotiated by former British prime minister Boris Johnson.

The protocol, signed by Mr Johnson in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard Irish Border after Brexit, with Northern Ireland continuing to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

But the trade barriers between Northern Ireland and Britain has created tension among Unionists, with Mr Sunak admitting that it had unbalanced the Good Friday Agreement.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing, including addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.
Sonya McLean

The owner of a dog pound who allowed a euthanasia drug to be kept unlawfully on his premises which was then administered incorrectly to two dogs has been fined 30,000.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that David Stone (65) had been running Ashton Dog Pound in Dublin since 1996 and had contracts with local councils including Dublin City, Fingal, South Dublin and Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown county councils.

Garda Aine McQuillan told Paul Carroll SC, prosecuting, that gardai were contacted by a dog warden over the weekend of July 24th, 2020 to alert them to the fact that two dogs, a Bichon Frise and an Akita, had been administered the euthanasia drug  Pentobarbital - and the dogs had not been visited by a vet.

The dog warden was concerned for the animals as they were in a bad state.

The gardai called to the pound and Stone was there when they arrived.

By that point, one of the dogs had died, and the second dog was very unwell.

Gardai took this animal to the UCD veterinary clinical where it was put down in a more humane way, the court heard.

Gda McQuillan said that on arrival at the pound, gardai found the drug in an unlocked tin box. She said there was a full bottle of the drug and a small amount in a second bottle, totalling over 350 ml.

The garda said 5ml of the drug was enough to kill a dog and if a small amount of the drug came into the contact of a human skin it could have fatal consequences.

Various statements were taken from staff at the pound, who outlined that the drugs were kept in an unlocked box at the receptionist desk of the pound. The drugs were commonly administered orally to animals by putting it in their food.

Other statements suggested that it was the practice that the drug was placed in the animals food to sedate it before the vet would visit and properly administer the drug intravenously to put the dog down.

Gda McQuillan told the court that the drug was a veterinary-only prescription drug that must be administered intravenously by a vet.

She said the contracts Stone had entered into with the various county councils to provide the service included the provision of animals being put down, but it specifically stated that the drug must be administered correctly by a registered veterinary practitioner.

Regulations

Stone, of Hazelbrook, Loughlinstown, Ratoath, Co Meath, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to using premises for supply of an animal remedy contrary to various European regulations, possession of an animal remedy designated veterinary practitioner only and causing or permitting the administration of an animal remedy contrary to the same regulations on July 24th, 2020.

Gda McQuillan said that Stone had been contracted by Dublin City Council and the contract was worth 277,000. This contract ended in March last year and although he went for re-tender it was not successful.

Mr Carroll told the court that the maximum penalty for the offence was a three-year prison term and 500,000 fine.

Gda McQuillan agreed with Justin McQuade BL, defending, that his client was the only accused person to enter a guilty plea, while others are due to stand trial.

She accepted that while he had delegated some of the daily running of the pound to a manager, it was his responsibility to ensure the staff working at the pound were properly trained.

Mr McQuade said his client, a father of three adult children, had been running the pound for a number of years. He handed in a letter from Stone to the court expressing his remorse and embarrassment at finding himself in this position at this stage of career.

He also handed in a number of letters from a cross-section of people including a vet and a former employee who described Stone as conscientious and diligent.

Shortcuts

Counsel said his client believed he had the proper structures in place for the pound and had appointed staff to deal with the daily running of the pound, and he had placed his trust in those people

He does feel badly let down but has taken ownership, Mr McQuade said before he added that shortcuts were taken and Stone has expressed his regret and embarrassment for this.

It is a very unfortunate, unpleasant and serious matter, counsel said. He asked Judge Martin Nolan to have regard for his clients previous exemplary record.

Judge Nolan said a very lethal substance had been held where it should not have been, and it was being administered by untrained staff when it should have been administered by a vet.

It can be very dangerous to humans as well as animals - even a small amount can cause serious damage, Judge Nolan said.

He said Stone had been paid substantially to care for these animals and he had breached this contract.

He said he believed a custodial sentence was not warranted considering his previous good work record, lack of previous convictions and cooperation with the garda investigation.

Judge Nolan said it was a serious matter to have this substance on the premises without the necessary controls before he fined Stone 30,000.
By Grainne Ni Aodha, PA

Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin has said an EU-UK deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol represents a genuine attempt to address key unionist concerns.

The Tanaiste said the new EU-UK deal ensures that Northern Ireland benefits by having unique access to both the EU single market and the UKs internal market.

I heard first-hand the concerns of many unionists, he said in a statement after the Windsor Framework deal.

I believe they will see in this a genuine response to their genuine concerns.

This new framework will, for example, ensure that the same food will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland as in the rest of the UK.

Medicines will also be available to people in Northern Ireland at the same time and under the same conditions as the rest of the UK.

Political parties in Northern Ireland said they would assess the text underpinning the agreement.

The DUP said it would engage with the British government to seek further clarification, reworking or change as required, while Sinn Fein is due to meet on Monday night to discuss what has been agreed.

Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald listed the Good Friday Agreement, no hardening of the border on the island of Ireland and continued access to the EU market as its priorities. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said he would compare the deal against the partys seven tests.

Mr Martin urged the focus to turn to restoring Northern Irelands powersharing institutions, and that the deal poses an opportunity to reset British-Irish relations.

I appreciate that some time may be needed to consider the detail of the deal, but I would urge political leaders in Northern Ireland to act quickly, to put in place institutions that can respond directly to the needs of the people of Northern Ireland, he said.

People in Northern Ireland have been clear that they wish to see an executive formed.

Earlier on Monday, Mr Martin said: I think the resolution of these issues will give an opportunity to really reset the British-Irish relationship into the future.

So its very, very important for us that the EU-UK relationship is normalised and  to use (EC) President (Ursula) von der Leyens words  that the UK is seen as a partner and a friend, and not a source of ongoing friction between the EU and the United Kingdom.
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.

Outdoor retailer REI Co-op has announced new product standards for its more than 1,000 brand partners, including requirements for measuring greenhouse gas emissions and setting goals to reduce emissions; working toward equity with inclusive products and product sizes and equal pricing across sizes; and eliminating all per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from cookware and textiles by Fall 2024.

The new Product Impact Standards build on REIs existing standards, such as a ban on long-chain PFAS in all products and an expectation that all products that will come into contact with food or beverages be free of bisphenol A (BPA). The new product standards on PFAS follow increasing legislation to limit or ban PFAS, including a ban in California, of which REI shared a statement in support.

The companys ban on PFAS will require textiles, including clothing, footwear, accessories, packs and bags, and cookware to be free of forever chemicals. REI partners that supply professional-grade products, such as heavy-duty textiles and equipment for expeditions, will have a longer timeline, with the ban taking effect for these products in Fall 2026.

REIs action sends a clear signal to all apparel companies that PFAS are just too dangerous to be used on our clothing, Laurie Valeriano, executive director of Toxic-Free Future, said in a statement. With this decision, this sustainability-minded company is getting out ahead of regulation. REI should make sure these persistent, toxic chemicals are replaced with safer solutions by requiring full ingredient disclosure and assessment for hazards.

PFAS are a group of chemicals that have earned the nickname forever chemicals due to their inability to break down in the environment. PFAS are commonly found in cookware, because these chemicals can give cookware non-stick qualities. These chemicals are also frequently used in stain-resistant and waterproof textiles as well as firefighting foam.

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While PFAS are frequently used to make products more durable or easier to use, they have a concerning impact on human health and the planet. Research is ongoing to uncover just how these chemicals impact humans and wildlife, but so far, experts have linked PFAS to reproductive issues, developmental impacts in children, increased risks of cancer and worse immune system responses to vaccines and diseases.

Several companies have already enacted restrictions on PFAS, including VF Corporation (which owns major brands like Timberland and The North Face), Lowes and 3M. Despite being well-known for its environmental stances, REI was spotlighted in a campaign by Toxic-Free Future for being behind in banning PFAS as other companies and states created more regulations around forever chemicals.

In addition to the ban on PFAS, REIs updated product standards for 2023 include requiring its brand partners to measure their greenhouse gas emissions and set emissions reduction targets and expecting brand partners to offer inclusive sizing, including price equity across sizes, and inclusive product offerings for diverse hair types.

REI noted it has also set its own emissions reduction targets using Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), with a goal of reducing emissions 55%, compared to a 2019 baseline, by 2030.
Back at CES, Lenovo showed off a huge portfolio of new devices including a true dual-screen laptop and a desk lamp that doubles as a webcam. But now, Lenovo is back at Mobile World Congress with a few more refreshed notebooks and tablets headlined by two interesting updates to the ThinkPad Z family.

Designed to be ideal companions for hybrid workers, the new ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 and Z16 Gen 2 feature an all-AMD setup. Youll be able to choose from a range of Ryzen 7000 processors and even an optional Radeon 6650M graphics card on the larger Z16, along with up to 64GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage. However, for people who are constantly hopping on and off video calls, the ThinkPad Z13 and Z16s new communication features might be the bigger draw.

Thats because in addition to new full HD webcams, youll also get support for Wi-Fi 6E and Dolby Voice-enabled microphones, so you should look and sound good on Zoom meetings. But my favorite new feature is the TrackPoint Quick Menu that can be summoned by simply double-tapping the companys signature red nub. This opens a window that lets you quickly adjust things like camera settings, mic volume, voice dictation, noise suppression and more. You can even customize which settings you want to see so you have fast access to the things you tend to change most often and I think its a great way of adding new functionality to a classic component like the TrackPoint.

Other specs include up to a 13.3-inch 2.8K OLED display on the Z13 Gen 2 or a larger and higher resolution 16-inch 4K OLED panel on the Z16 Gen 2. Lenovo has also retained handy features like an electronic shutter for the webcam, in addition to dual speakers with Dolby Atmos, two or three USB ports depending on the system, and a dedicated SD card reader on the Z16.

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Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Meanwhile, to help improve your mousing experience, both the Z13 and Z16 Gen 2 feature a Fusion UX touchpad from Sensel, which adds more sophisticated haptics, better palm rejection and more. On top of being physically larger (120mm across), long-time Trackpoint fans will also appreciate that Sensels touchpad supports three virtual haptic buttons that run across the top of the touchpad, so youll still have easy access to left and right mouse clicks without having to reach too far.

Finally, the last big change for the Z13 is that alongside the default aluminum finish, as part of its commitment to sustainability, Lenovo is also introducing a new flax fiber lid which is made from waste material collected during the harvesting process. This material is something weve seen before on a handful of concept cars from companies like Porsche and Polestar, but Lenovo says this is the first time this reinforced flax fiber material will be available on a consumer electronic device.

Sam Rutherford/Engadget

Admittedly, this isnt for everyone, but I kind of like it because it looks almost like a futuristic take on wood paneling. Not only does this add a bit of warmth to the laptops appearance, just like a nice piece of furniture, each flax fiber lid features a unique grain, which gives the whole system a bit of added personality. On top of that, Lenovo says the lid is bonded to a top cover made from 75 percent recycled aluminum.

While their designs arent changing a ton (aside from that new lid option on Z13), the addition of speedier components, larger touchpads and better conferencing features should make the second-gen ThinkPad Z-series laptops even better at getting work done  both at home or in the office. And thanks to its optional flax fiber lid, the Z13 Gen 2 might be the most stylish and sustainable ThinkPad yet.

Sam Rutherford/Engadget

The ThinkPad Z13 Gen 2 is expected to go on sale sometime in July starting at $1,249, with the ThinkPad Z16 Gen arriving a bit later in August starting at $1,749.

All products recommended by Engadget are selected by our editorial team, independent of our parent company. Some of our stories include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. All prices are correct at the time of publishing.
Tear down the middle school geology posters: We have an update. A team at Australian National University (ANU) has found evidence of a new fifth layer to the planet, an iron-nickel alloy ball in the inner core. The scientists found the hidden core by studying seismic waves that travel up to five times across the Earth's diameter  previous studies only looked at single bounces. The earthquake waves probed places near the center at angles that suggested a different crystalline structure deep inside.

The ANU researchers also believe the innermost inner core hints at a major event in Earth's past that had a "significant" impact on the planet's heart. As researchers told The Washington Post, it could also help explain the formation of the Earth's magnetic field. The field plays a major role in supporting life as it shields the Earth from harmful radiation and keeps water from drifting into space.

 Mat Smith

The Morning After isnt just a newsletter  its also a daily podcast. Get our daily audio briefings, Monday through Friday, by subscribing right here.

The biggest stories you might have missed

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The spacecraft successfully docked on Saturday evening.

ROCOSMOS

MS-23, the Soyuz spacecraft Russia sent to bring cosmonauts Sergey Prokopyev and Dmitry Petelin and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio back to Earth, has arrived at the International Space Station. According to Space.com, the vessel docked with the ISS at 7:58 PM ET on Saturday evening. MS-23 was scheduled to launch later this year, but Roscosmos was forced to push up the flight after MS-22  Prokopyev, Petelin and Rubios original return craft  sprung a coolant leak in December following a micrometeoroid strike. If an emergency broke out on the ISS and the entire crew had to evacuate, it wasnt clear whether MS-22 could carry its crew safely back to Earth. Thats no longer the case, now the Soyuz spacecraft is docked.

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You can watch it on YouTube before paying out for a Paramount+ sub.

If you cant resist the chance to see the crew of Star Trek: The Next Generation one last time, Paramount is offering a free way to watch the first episode of season three. The debut episode sees Jean-Luc Picard return from retirement (yet again) after his friend and former first officer Will Riker receives a warning from Dr. Beverly Crusher. Weve shared opinions on the first six episodes, but if youre still intrigued, now theres a chance to make your own mind up.

Continue reading.

ChatGPT is popping up on the Kindle Store, and even Spotify is looking at AI.

Engadget

The AI news just wont stop! This week, Cherlynn and Devindra discussed the latest on Bing AI  Microsoft is loosening up recent restrictions, following reports of its bad behavior  as well as the rise of ChatGPT stories on the Kindle store. Spotify is also launching its own AI DJ, starring the digitized voice of one of its current hosts.

Continue reading.
You can now fly the largest aircraft ever built in 'Microsoft Flight Simulator' Proceeds will go toward rebuilding the An-225 Mriya that was destroyed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

One year ago today, the largest aircraft ever built was destroyed during the early days of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Now, the Antonov An-225 Mriya is once again taking to the skies  albeit in Microsoft Flight Simulator . What's more, if you buy the add-on, you could help restore the only real-life Mriya that was ever completed.

The Ukraine-built Mriya was an ultra-heavy lift jet transport aircraft with six engines. It was the heaviest aircraft ever built and it had the largest wingspan of any plane at 290 feet. The Mriya, which had its first flight in 1988, was used to transport things like Soviet space shuttles, tanks, diesel locomotives and dozens of cars at a time.

Stringer . / reuters

A second Mriya was in the works, but it was never finished. There are plans to reconstruct the plane by using parts of the destroyed Mriya and pieces from the unfinished airframe. The project is expected to cost over $500 million .
(Informacion remitida por la empresa firmante)

STOCKHOLM, LONDON and JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Medius, a leading provider of AP automation and wider spend management solutions, today announces the appointment of Henrik Rosen as Chief Technology Officer (CTO).

As CTO, Rosen will drive Medius's innovation activities, delivering] the established Medius product suite, developing new products, and doubling-down on providing value to the customer base. Rosen will lead the Research & Development (R&D) and the Customer Support organizations, and in addition also manage the Cloud Operations and the Security organization at Medius.

Formerly Senior Vice President of R&D at Medius, Rosen joined the company in 2011 and has been part of Medius's journey for over 12 years, as the company has grown from a local Swedish software company to a global SaaS business. Based in Linkoping, Sweden, Rosen will be responsible for a globally distributed technology function, made up of almost 200 people, including the R&D headquarters based in Krakow, Poland, founded in 2009.

Prior to joining Medius, Rosen was part of the R&D leadership team at the ERP vendor IFS as the company grew into a global ERP player which today has 5,000 employees.

Henrik Rosen, CTO, Medius, comments: "Sweden has a long history of innovation - home of household technology names like Spotify, Klarna, and Northvolt. Medius is now amongst those top technology actors, drawing on the winning-formula of exceptional talent in a relatively small and supporting technology ecosystem, and I've relished the opportunity to be a part of the Medius journey. In my new role as CTO, I'm excited to accelerate the innovation at Medius, investing in new technology areas which hold ample opportunity to ultimately bring more value to customers in this current economic climate."

Jim Lucier, CEO, Medius, comments: "As we scale Medius into a billion-dollar growth company, Henrik will continue to play a key role in driving transformational change and spearheading technology leadership within the company - amplifying the importance of product and technology for Medius's success."

For more information, please contact: Francesca Cahill (EMEA) or Sarah Nowak (US) at Fight or Flight for Medius: Medius@fightorflight.com.

View original content: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/medius-appoints-henrik-rosen-as-chief-technology-officer-301756305.html
A Montana man has pleaded not guility to allegedly threatening to kill U.S> Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana.

Kevin Patrick Smith, 45, of Kalispell, was indicted Feb. 22 for threatening to murder Tester, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for Montana.

Smith was detained after the plea. He could face 10 years in prison for the threat.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Kathleen L. DeSoto presided. Smith was detained pending further proceedings.

According to court documents and prosecutors, on Jan. 30, Smith allegedly made numerous threatening calls to Tester.

There is nothing I want more than to have you stand toe to toe with me. You stand toe to toe with me. I rip your head off. You die. You stand in a situation where it is physical between you and me. You die, prosecutors said referring to one message.

I will never stop.And I would love to destroy you and rip your (obscenity) head from your shoulders. That is no problem. Call that a threat. Send the FBI, Smith said, according to prosecutors, I would love to (obscenity) kill you. I would love to see your FBI at my door. I would love to see something in the news

FBI agents warned Smith on Feb. 1 but the Montana allegedly threatened Tester again Feb. 10.

I want you to understand. If I ever pull my trigger, I know what dies, Smith said one in one voicemail.

It is important for you to understand that I wont live under your rule.If it becomes time that I die, Id take a significant number with me, he said in another.

Tester announced he is seeking a fourth, six-year term in the U.S. Senate. The Democrat, who supports abortion rights, is seen as bulwerk against the GOP gaining control of the tightly divided Senate.
UPDATE, MARCH 30:

Trooper Lewis Johnson, who was injured in a pursuit southwest of Eureka in February, is still recovering at Craig Hospital in Colorado.

Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) shared an update on Trooper Johnsons condition Thursday, saying his medical status continues to stabilize, and he completed treatment for the medical complications related to his chest wall injuries.

Trooper Johnson now has less pain and has been able to focus more on his recovery and rehabilitation related to the injuries sustained in this incident. He has also started to use a manual wheelchair for mobility. Trooper Johnson is motivated and engaged with all members of his rehabilitation team. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and continued support of Lewis and his family, MHP said.

UPDATE, MARCH 9 at 3:01 PM:

Montana Highway Patrol shared an update on Trooper Lewis Johnson Thursday, saying he completed his first week at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado, and has been getting up and dressed for PT/OT every day.

Johnson is still battling his injuries, and is using a powered mobility chair until his left shoulder heals more.

The community support has been incredible, and the family is truly grateful. His room is starting to fill with cards and beautiful drawings. Please, keep them coming! He still has a long road ahead, but hes in the right place for healing, Montana Highway Patrol wrote.

You can help support Trooper Johnson through a GoFundMe set up to help during his recovery. Donations can also be sent directly to the family at:

Lewis and Kate Johnson to PO Box 356 Chester, MT 59522.

You can also send donations to the First Montana Bank here:

Lewis and Kate Johnson Support fund, Lincoln Co Sheriff's Reserve Fund 501(C)(3) First Montana Bank

504 Mineral Ave

Libby, MT 59923

Contact: Sheriff Darren Short - (406) 293-4112 ext. 1230

UPDATE, FEB. 26 AT 1:56 PM:

Injured Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Lewis Johnson is continuing to heal after being hit by a fleeing suspects vehicle on Feb. 17.

An event Sunday was held for Trooper Johnson and his family at Logan Health in Kalispell where an update on his condition was shared.

Logan Healths Chief of Surgery said Trooper Johnson arrived at the hospital with multiple crushed ribs, a collapsed and bruised lung, lacerations and a critical spine fracture.

Trooper Johnson spent his first few days at the hospital on life support and has since been taken off, and was even able to make an appearance at the event in person.

Trooper Johnson thanked attendees for coming to the event, adding I am here, I am fighting, but it is going to be a long fight.

Officials thanked the community and emergency personnel who helped get Trooper Johnson the care he needed.

You can watch the full event from the Flathead County Sheriffs Office below:

KALISPELL, Mont. - Officials are coming together to support injured Montana Highway Patrol Trooper, Lewis Johnson and his family.

Local law enforcement officials are holding the event in the conference room at Logan Health starting at 1:00 pm Sunday.

Trooper Johnson was injured during a pursuit southwest of Eureka, and he has since been in the care of the team at Logan Health.

Sundays event will recognize Trooper Johnsons care team, the life-saving actions of other law enforcement personnel the day he was injured and Montanas law enforcement community. An update on his future medical care and recover will also be shared.

The public is welcome to attend, and a live stream will be available.

You can watch the stream from the Flathead County Sheriff's Office here.

Article originally posted February 24, 2023.
Membership of the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) has more than doubled since the pandemic, the new chair of the organisation has said.

Devon young farmer Rosie Bennett, a manager at agricultural accountants Evolution ABS, said she expected to be leading more than 25,000 members by the end of the membership year in August.

NFYFC's membership figures are already outstripping those recorded around this time last year.

Numbers dropped significantly during the peak pandemic period when clubs were unable to host their usual activities due to Covid-19 restrictions.

However, Rosie said new national initiatives and a renewed energy from YFCs had enticed more rural young people to join a local club.

A former County Chair for Devon County Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (FYFC), Rosie has been a YFC member in East Devon for nearly 15 years.

She said she was keen to continue growing the membership during her year in office.

Im thrilled to be elected as the new Chair of the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs, especially at a time when our membership is growing," she added.

"I am keen to ensure that what we offer rural young people remains relevant and we continue to work closely with our County Federations to achieve our goals.

Being a member of a Young Farmers Club has given me so many opportunities to develop skills, travel, achieve awards and make friends for life.

"I want all rural young people to know those same opportunities are available to them by being part of YFC.

More than 100 members gathered in Warwickshire on Saturday (27 February) to pass motions that affect the running of the organisation and to elect the new officers of NFYFCs Council.

The National Council is made up of 63 members, associate members and co-options from across England and Wales, and is elected by YFC members to represent their views.
The Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) has greenlit three new investment projects in the country worth a total of $17.6 million. The three investor companies are looking to build garment and packaging material factories in the Takeo and Kampong Speu provinces.

Pengjiao (Cambodia) Industrial Co Ltd, Zhong Shan Teng Fei (Cambodia) Packaging Material Co Ltd, and SSH CB Sustainable Fashion Co Ltd are the companies behind the new projects, the CDC said in a press release.

The Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) has greenlit three new investment projects in the country worth a total of $17.6 million. The three investor companies are looking to build garment and packaging material factories in the Takeo and Kampong Speu provinces. The projects are anticipated to generate a total of 6,480 jobs for the locals.

The projects are anticipated to generate a total of 6,480 jobs for the locals.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (NB)
1. Zero Dark Thirty

2. Expendables

3. Source Code

4. The Suicide Squad

5. Safe House



Action films are Hollywoods staple dont you agree? And they surely know how to deliver films in this genre, some of the best action films come from Hollywood. And who doesnt love some thrill and suspense which will keep you hooked to your seats and screens? From jaw-dropping stunts to amazing car chases and explosions thats exactly why action films work so well. And in the past few years,are being dubbed in Hindi to cater to the Indian audience as well. And the dubbing has been top-notch, to say the least, with the translation getting the crux of the original dialogue and the Hindi voice artists making sure they are in character. So as we sit at home and find some films to binge-watch, we have curated a list of some of the bestto binge-watch. Take a look.The 2012 American thriller titledwas written by Mark Boal and directed by Kathryn Bigelow. The movie dramatises the nearly ten-year international manhunt that followed the September 11 attacks for Osama bin Laden, the terrorist organisation Al-leader. Qaeda's Maya is a CIA agent who gained her first experience interrogating detainees after the 9/11 attacks by Al Qaeda on the United States. She reluctantly agrees to the detainees being subjected to extreme duress because she thinks that this is the only way to get the truth. She has been persistently looking for leads to learn Osama Bin Laden's whereabouts for a number of years. In 2011, it seems as though her efforts will be rewarded, and a team of U.S. Navy SEALs are dispatched to either kill or capture Bin Laden. Only Maya, however, is certain that Bin Laden is where she claims he is.The "Expendables," a group of highly skilled mercenaries led by Barney Ross, include demolitionist Toll Road, martial arts expert Yin Yang, heavy weapons specialist Hale Caesar, knife enthusiast Lee Christmas, and loose-cannon sniper Gunner Jensen. Barney and Lee travel to the remote location to scout out their rivals when the group is given the assignment to kill the brutal dictator of a small South American island by the enigmatic Mr. Church. When they arrive, they run into local rebel Sandra and learn the truth about the conflict engulfing the city. When Sandra stays behind as they leave the island, Ross must decide whether to leave and risk his own life or attempt a suicidal rescue mission that just might save him.Colter Stevens, an army captain, is developing a special programme that allows him to implant his consciousness into another person. The only restriction is that each visit is limited to 8 minutes. Just outside of Chicago, a commuter train was struck by a bomb that morning. His last memory was of piloting his chopper on a combat mission in Afghanistan, so he occupies the body of a teacher traveling to work on that train and is unsure of what he is doing or why he is there. He is informed by those in charge of the programme that there is a bomb on the train and that he must find it. More importantly, he needs to find the bomber because another attack is predicted for later in the day. However, he is also informed that he has no control over the past and can only learn about it. He decides to test that theory as he grows fond of his traveling companion Christina.Thetransforms its titular criminals into a group of lovable anti-heroes who are set loose in a stunning, surprisingly emotional adventure. It is an exhilarating blast of bloody, disreputable comic-book cinema. A ragtag group of hardened prisoners, known as The Suicide Squad, is put together by government agent Amanda Waller (Viola Davis) to take out Jotunheim, a former Nazi research facility hidden on an island off South America that is thought to still be carrying out gruesome experiments. Bloodsport ( Idris Elba), the Squad's reluctant leader, must collaborate with the bloodthirsty Peacemaker ( John Cena), among others. Harley Quinn ( Margot Robbie), the lone survivor of a separate mission to destroy Jotunheim, soon joins them. They capture the villainous scientist Thinker ( Peter Capaldi), who reveals that the lab has been keeping Starroa terrifying interstellar creature that, if let loose, could wipe out humanityin captivity.

Safe House is a 2012 thriller starring Ryan Reynolds, Denzel Washington and Vera Farmiga. It revolves around a CIA agent Matt Weston (Ryan Reynolds) who is operating a Safehouse in Cape Town, South Africa. Then he gets a chance to interrogate Tobin Frost (Denzel Washington), CIA's most wanted rogue. But soon after Tobins arrival Safehouse is attacked by mercenaries who want Tobin. Matt and Tobin then have to work as a team in order to stay alive to figure out who wants Tobin dead. The two actors proved to be a strong duo in the entire film and fit perfectly in their respective roles. And trust us when we say this, you will not be disappointed with the action and the acting.

6. Inception



Inception released in 2010, featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, the film is an incredible action/sci-fi. The story revolves around Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) a skilled thief, who is the best at extraction, he steals valuable secrets from peoples subconscious during the dream state. This rare talent of his has made him a great player in the corporate world but it has cost him everything he ever loved. Cobb is offered a chance at redemption only if he is able to do an impossible task. Cobb and his team of specialists have to pull a reverse task, they dont have to steal an idea but have to plant one. If he and his team are able to succeed this will be a perfect crime but the enemy is able to predict their every move. This film will surely keep you hooked to the screen as it is such an interesting film. And the storyline and casting are perfect.

7. Edge Of Tomorrow



Edge Of Tomorrow is the perfect action/sci-fi released in 2014. Starring Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt and Bill Paxton, the story revolves around how the earth is hit by aliens who are unbeatable by any military force in the world. Major William Cage (Tom Cruise) is an officer who has always fought the battles like going on a suicide mission, but he gets killed within minutes. He then finds himself stuck in a time loop forcing him to live the same combat, fight and die over and over again. But with each battle, William is able to increase his skills along with Special Forces warrior Rita Vrataski (Emily Blunt). With each repeated encounter Cage and Rita get one step closer to defeating the enemy. The film flows in an interesting way and from the storyline to the screenplay we loved this film.

8. Mad Max: Fury Road

Mad Max: Fury Road, released in 2015, is an action masterpiece. Directed by George Miller, and starring Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy, the film is set in an apocalyptic era on a planet that is out of our reach. A planet where humanity doesnt exist and everyone is fighting for the basic necessities of life. Here live two rebels who can restore some order to survive. On one side there is Max (Tom Hardy) who is a man of few words and is seeking mental peace following the loss of his wife and child. On the other side, there is Furiosa (Charlize Theron) a woman who believes her survival can be achieved only if she is able to make it to her childhood homeland. The action sequences in this film are jaw-dropping, George Miller has definitely put together a memorable action film.

9. Minority Report

Minority Report released in 2002 is a perfect blend of action, thrill and suspense. Starring the charming Tom Cruise, the story is set in the year 2054, in Washington D.C. where the crime is virtually eliminated by a law enforcing squad Precrime. The team has three gifted humans called Pre-Cogs who have special powers to see the future and predict crimes before they are even committed. However, the Pre-Cogs predict that John Anderton (Tom Cruise) who heads Precrime will commit a murder in the next thirty-six hours. And John doesnt even know the victim. The story continues as he decides to solve the mystery by finding out the minority report which means the prediction of the female Precog which can predict a different story and prove that John is innocent. What the audience loved about this film was the concept and story were so fresh.

10. Contraband

Contraband released in 2012, starring Mark Wahlberg, Kate Beckinsale, Ben Foster and Giovanni Ribisi revolves around Chris Faraday (Mark Wahlberg) who used to smuggle illegal items into the country on freighters. He then starts a fresh life once he gets married and has a family. But when his brother-in-law blows off a deal with Briggs (Giovanni Ribisi) a drug dealer, Briggs demands a reinstitution which he is not able to deliver. Chris decides to find a way to pay Briggs back, so he gets on a freighter to go to Panama and sets out to bring back some counterfeit currency. Briggs then goes on to threaten Chriss family and tells him to get drugs instead of cash.
In the first episode of Brown, a series that premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival as a part of Berlinale Series Market, a dead body with a severed head is discovered in a Kolkata home. By the time Karisma Kapoors Rita Brown, an inspector and recovering alcoholic walks in, the blood has dried at the crime scene. The noir thriller comes with several revelations, but the most striking is Karismas de-glam look and more importantly, her restrained performance. The nuanced role is unlike anything shes done before and if you ask director Abhinay Deo, thats the most exciting part about Brown.In an exclusive interview with Filmfare, the director who is best known for films like Delhi Belly, opened up about making the Berlin select series and directing the iconic Karisma Kapoor in her OTT era.I don't think success can be rated like that. To my mind, there are different milestones. It depends on your idea of success. In my opinion, success is when the audience understands and appreciates what you've made. That's a mark of success. Awards or recognition at Film Festivals is something that boosts your morale. It tells you that the attempts you're making are getting somewhere. It makes you believe in yourself. These are all very good signs towards recognition. If Berlinale has liked it and given us this fantastic opportunity we're on the right track.When I pick a project, it's completely based on script and characters. I see if I can work on it and exploit it. I only go by something that I enjoy doing rather than whether it's going to make money or it's going to be liked by people. My whole funda is that if you like it and the crew likes it and the process of making it then why won't the audience like it? In the case of Brown, the book (City of Death by Abheek Barua) itself had a very strong sense of character whether it's the setting or the characters developed in it. And of course, we have flown in a completely different direction from the book and that's what excited me a lot. The freedom to be able to push the envelope whether it's the point of view of the character, the performances or the pacing, with everything we tried to push the envelope.One of the things is that there were a lot of workshops. We led with that. The story and the way it's written have a lot of emotions. People in this series are all extremely layered, as they are in life. They all carry a lot of baggage and for that baggage to come across was very important. So there were a lot of workshops. And apart from that, the city itself plays a very important character. There was a lot of prep done in Kolkata. I spent a lot of time in the city studying it and the people. You'll almost never see a single location in the series that you've perhaps seen in Incredible India. These are not popular or touristy places but the real Kolkata.It is something that evolved while building on the murder mystery. So saying too much might give away the story. But the reasoning for what you see is that life has a dark side. From the very first episode, I wanted to establish the black white and grey. If you look at Brown, it's about how damaged people come together and sometimes are harmful to each other and themselves. Sometimes they win over their evil. It's a very intense drama of how people behave in life in extraordinary circumstances. In the first episode itself, I wanted to give audiences a glimpse of what the story is like but explore it slowly through the series.First of all, I want to say that she is such a fantastic actor. And the fact that she has never done anything like this is what attracted me more for the casting. This was a fresh approach for her. She has been given glamorous roles all throughout. This is the opposite of anything she's ever done in her life. So as a director, I was exploiting a completely new facet of her. She is instinctively a very good actor. Her instincts are great. Secondly, the best thing about an actor is when they come in and add a little more. She committed herself to being Rita Brown. She committed herself to a kind of filmmaking that I think she hasn't experienced before. And while the actors and characters are all very realistic there's a stylised way of shooting it. So the performances were completely understated. They behaved how real people behave and that's new territory for her. She was like a kid in a candy store exploring everything. And she did an amazing job.I think from a directorial point of view what I do is decide the pitch of the scene. Once the pitch is clean and they know that I want to get something understated it's all about having an open conversation with an actor saying, "Hey you know what, this is my idea, what do you think?" Then there's a to and fro always. They come up with their own suggestions. It's a give-and-take. Finally, when we get to a place where both are happy, you get to see a very interesting side on the screen. There is a lot of to and fro that goes into it and then you get somewhere.This is a very loaded question. When these actresses were at their prime in the industry, it had its own biases and it was a male-dominated world. Very rarely there was a meaty role for women. Today with the emergence of so OTT, so many stories and the world moving in a different direction, I think they're getting an opportunity to kind of really bloom and show what they have. Because they were always good at their craft. There was never any doubt about that. Just that they couldn't really showcase that.If you see my filmography, I've never repeated myself. I did Delhi Belly and immediately after that, I did 24 with Anil Kapoor. The series was ahead of its time. It was like an OTT show. So to a large extent try to do something new and better. So from Delhi Belly to here, I've had four films and I'm really glad that I'm a part of an industry that allows me to do whatever I want. I want to give audiences something new. I'd really love to try and do more experiments. I wanna try horror comedies next. So that's that.
CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - Japan will on Monday see January figures for its leading and coincident index, highlighting a modest day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. In December, the leading index was down 0.5 percent on month for a score of 97.4. The coincident slipped 0.3 percent in December. Australia will release Q4 numbers for business inventories and company profits. Inventories are tipped to ease 0.2 percent on quarter after rising 1.7 percent in Q3. Gross operating profits are expected to rise 1.5 percent on quarter after slumping 12.4 percent in the three months prior. Hong Kong will see January figures for imports and exports; in December, imports were down 23.5 percent on month and exports tumbled 28.9 percent. Finally, the markets in Taiwan are closed on Monday and Tuesday for Peace Memorial Day and will re-open on Wednesday. Copyright(c) 2023 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.
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Union Pacific Corp. (UNP) said Sunday that it plans to replace its chief executive officer Lance Fritz later this year. The announcement comes after U.S. hedge fund Soroban Capital Partners, which holds a $1.6 billion stake in the freight railroad operator, went public with its concerns about Fritz's leadership. 'The Board is focusing the process on highly-qualified candidates both within the industry and adjacent industries to identify a CEO capable of leading the Company for a long-term tenure. The Board expects to name a successor who will assume the position in 2023,' Union Pacific said in a statement. Lance Fritz, Union Pacific Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, said that Union Pacific has been his home for 22 years and he is confident that now is the right time for Union Pacific's next leader to take the helm. He look s forward to working with the Board as the company identifies its next CEO to lead the company into the future. In a letter on Sunday, Soroban argued that Union Pacific has ranked worst in key operating metrics including safety, volume growth and total shareholder return during Fritz's eight-year tenure despite the strength of its railroad network. Soroban also urged Union Pacific to consider former Chief Operating Officer Jim Vena as a possible replacement for Fritz. The hedge fund believes the company's stock price could double in two years under Vena, who was in the running in 2021 to be CEO of Canadian National Railway Co. Copyright(c) 2023 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.
TOKYO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Astroscale Holdings Inc. ("Astroscale"), the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term sustainability across all orbits, has received an investment of U.S. $23 million from Yusaku Maezawa, the first private Japanese citizen to visit the International Space Station (ISS).





"Mr. Maezawa's investment is a testament to the importance of space sustainability, and we are deeply grateful for his vision and commitment," said Nobu Okada, Founder and CEO of Astroscale. "Astroscale's mission to prevent the accumulation of space debris and to create a sustainable space environment aligns with Mr. Maezawa's experience and passion for space travel and exploration."

Maezawa is the first Japanese civilian to visit the ISS, where he spent 12 days in December 2021. This groundbreaking visit was only his first step into space. He is now preparing for the historic dearMoon mission, in which he will lead a crew of nine on the first civilian mission to fly around the Moon on a SpaceX Starship.

"As someone who has visited space, I understand the immense dangers posed by debris in orbit," said Maezawa. "My second space trip is on the horizon, the dearMoon mission to fly around the moon, and I expect similar types of space travel will become more common. I want to protect the future of space travel, so I've decided to contribute to Astroscale's mission to reduce orbital debris."

Since its founding in 2013, Astroscale has been committed to the sustainable, responsible and cost-effective use of space. The funds raised through its Series G round will support the continued development of world-leading technologies, global expansion and increased supply capacity to meet growing demand.

About Astroscale

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations and is dedicated to on-orbit servicing across all orbits.

Founded in 2013, Astroscale is developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of on-orbit servicing, including life extension, in situ space situational awareness, end-of-life, and active debris removal, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate the growing and hazardous buildup of debris in space. Astroscale is also defining business cases and working with government and commercial stakeholders to develop norms, regulations, and incentives for the responsible use of space.

Headquartered in Japan, Astroscale has an international presence with subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel. Astroscale is a rapidly expanding venture company, working to advance safe and sustainable growth in space and solve a growing environmental concern.

Find out more about Astroscale at www.astroscale.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2009867/Astroscale_Holdings_Yusaku_Maezawa_with_Nobu_Okada.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/yusaku-maezawa-entrepreneur-and-first-private-japanese-citizen-to-visit-the-iss-invests-us-23-million-in-astroscale-301756118.html
Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, today announces the launch of its 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability, also known as NR-Light) modules, the Rx255C series. Based on Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., the new modules feature superior wireless performance and low latency communication with 5G while providing significant optimization in size, energy savings, and cost-effectiveness.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005180/en/

Quectel announces RedCap Rx255C module series to help expand the reach of 5G into more IoT applications and verticals (Photo: Business Wire)

These characteristics make Snapdragon X35 and Rx255C series the ideal option to help drive the reach of 5G technology into a variety of new business verticals and mobile broadband scenarios, such as entry level broadband, compute, industrial automation, smart city, smart energy, and smart wearables.

"Introducing our 5G RedCap modules, based on Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System, is a critical step toward the 5G vision of connecting virtually everything around us," said Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions. "The Rx255C series offers a balance between cost and performance and will support the large-scale deployment of 5G into sectors where high bandwidth is not needed, but low cost and power consumption are crucial."

"We congratulate Quectel on the launch of their new module products based on the world's first 5G NR-Light modem-RF system, Snapdragon X35," said Gautam Sheoran, vice president, product management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Our latest modem features a streamlined and optimized architecture combined with system enhancements to lower cost, reduce complexity, decrease power consumption, and enable small form factor devices. With Snapdragon X35, OEMs now have access to new 5G capabilities to create next-generation devices for a new era of use cases."

Meeting the 3GPP Release 17 standards, the Rx255C series supports 5G standalone (SA) mode and a maximum bandwidth of 20MHz on the sub-6GHz frequency band. Targeting all markets worldwide, the 5G RedCap modules are backward compatible with LTE networks and cover nearly all the mainstream carriers worldwide. They provide a theoretical peak downlink data rate of around 220 Mbps and uplink data rate of around 100 Mbps, sufficient to meet the demand for data speeds in IoT applications such as robotics, DTU, drones, smart ports, smart grid, AR/VR wearables, educational laptops as well as other entry level mobile broadband devices.

The support of RedCap technology allows the Rx255C to optimize the number of antennas, reduce the transmitting and receiving bandwidth, and provide 64QAM/256QAM (optional) modulation to greatly optimize the cost and size. The high level of integration and unique architecture of Snapdragon X35 ensures that the modules also have a low power consumption which drives 5G adoption in an entirely new category of devices.

The Rx255C series supports L1+L5 dual frequency GNSS to achieve precise positioning services. They provide a wide range of interfaces such as PCIe 2.0, USB 2.0 and supplementary functions including VoLTE and DFOTA.

To help customers to facilitate their designs, Quectel offers a variety of high-performance 5G antennas which boost wireless connectivity significantly. IoT developers can bundle the Rx255C modules with Quectel's antennas and pre-certification services, reducing both cost and time-to-market for their 5G devices.

Engineering samples of the Rx255C will be available in the first half of 2023. To learn more, visit the Quectel booth at MWC Barcelona 2023, Hall 5, Booth 5A20.

About Quectel

Quectel's passion for a smarter world drives us to accelerate IoT innovation. A highly customer-centric organization, we are a global IoT solutions provider backed by outstanding support and services. Our growing global team of over 4,000 professionals sets the pace for innovation in cellular, GNSS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, antennas and IoT connectivity.

With regional offices and support across the globe, our international leadership is devoted to advancing IoT and helping build a smarter world.

For more information: www.quectel.com, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.

Snapdragon and Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm patented technologies are licensed by Qualcomm Incorporated.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005180/en/

Contacts:

Media:

Phil Rawcliffe, Head of Communications

phil.rawcliffe@quectel.com
Schneider Electric Press contact:

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Capgemini Press contact:

Florence Lievre



+33 1 47 54 50 71

florence.lievre@capgemini.com (mailto:florence.lievre@capgemini.com)



Qualcomm Press contact:

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+1-858-845-5959

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Mauricio Lopez-Hodoyan, Investor Relations

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Schneider Electric and Capgemini collaborate to accelerate 5G industrial automation, supported by Qualcomm

The three companies have customized an innovative end-to-end 5G Private Network solution,with the potential of transforming industrial automation systems through highly advanced virtual connectivity.

The system has the ability to be deployed across diverse industrial and logistics sites.

Barcelona Barcelona 2023,Schneider Electric, Capgemini and QualcommTecnologies, Inc. announced their collaboration on a first-of-its-kind 5G-enabled automated hoisting solution. The three companies have joined efforts ondesign and installation ofthe solution at Schneider Electric's hoisting lab in Grenoble, France. Replacingwired connections with wireless and unifying existingwireless connections from Schneider Electric's industrial automation system, the 5G Private Network solutiondemonstrates how it can simplify and optimize digital technology deployment at scale across industrial sites - from steel plants to ports.

From avionics and automotive to steel manufacturing and shipping, hoisting applications play a critical role in supply chain and manufacturing operations, where heavy materials and goods are transported over what can be hundreds of meters. These crane applications are designed to operate in challenging industrial environments, for example, under extreme temperatures and over large distances.

"Digital transformation is helping Schneider Electric customers generate step-change advancements in productivity, efficiency, and sustainability, but not one company can do it alone," said Marc Lafont, Vice President, Innovation and Upstream Marketing, Schneider Electric. "Schneider Electric has always been a proponent of collaboration and the innovation that comes with it. This breakthrough end-to-end 5G private network hoisting solution is a perfect example of the power of working together as we pilot it at end user sites this year. In addition, in the short-term, we will validate more industrial 5G use cases in various discrete manufacturing, hybrid automation, and process automation applications. In the mid-term, we will experiment with deeper integration of 5G technology inside our automation equipment."

Wireless, automated hoisting

Automated hoisting systems increase productivity, safety, and operational performance but require fast reaction times, high precision and reliability, 24/7 availability, and both manual and autonomous capabilities. Furthermore, several systems need to coexist on the same network with video cameras for monitoring and remote operation, and PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers1) for various control functions, including automation, remote control, and safety functions. 5G's native low latency characteristics allow the system to replace fiber cables in remote-control operations, addressing the need to simplify network complexity, reduce wires, and provide long-term reliable connectivity.

"This collaboration with Schneider Electric demonstrates Capgemini's unique ability to partner with clients to take advantage of technologies to innovate and create new use cases for their industry.The 5G end-to-end solution customized for Schneider Electric's hoisting system is a good example of the added value of 5G for industrial communication and really illustrates its potential to transform an industry segment," said Fotis Karonis, Group Leader of 5G and Edge Computing at Capgemini. "Advanced connectivity, 5G, and Edge computing technologies are strong enablers and accelerators for this move towards a digital economy and innovative use cases. They allow industrial clientsto redesign systems and processes and make them more efficient, agile, and intelligent."

"The opportunity to utilize 5G to propel enterprise connectivity forward is tremendous, thus we are investing in this emerging ecosystem by providing practical innovations for 5G Private Networks," said Enrico Salvatori, senior vice president, Qualcomm Europe, Inc. and president, Qualcomm Europe/MEA. "Our latest technologies are accelerating the numerous benefits modern 5G Private Networks offer to partners like Schneider Electric and Capgemini. By enabling a pre-integrated solution with multi-vendor choice along with Open RAN automation and management technology to streamline deployment, management, and customizability of private networks, we're helping reduce complexities and accelerate time to market globally."

Capgemini has worked closely with Schneider Electric to design an optimized end-to-end 5G solution and identify business outcomes on Schneider Electric's industrial use case. It has also provided the systems integration support based on Qualcomm Technologies latest innovations and assisted Schneider Electric to integrate the 5G network with their use cases, to characterize and optimize the system. Schneider Electric's expertise in industrial automation combined with Qualcomm Technologies' heritage in wireless technologies, compute and AI innovations, plus Capgemini's hands-on experience of network deployment and systems integration intersect to improve performance while eliminating complexities, resulting in faster time to market and improved KPIs for automated hoisting customers.

The 5G private network hoisting solution:

Replaces wired and other wireless connections for several critical PLC control flows and time sensitive video flows powering numerous use cases

Operates in 3.8GHz radio frequency band, with an enterprise-grade Athonet core network and Airspan Small Cells using the Qualcomm FSM100 5G RAN Platform, significantly improving connectivity performance and enabling new use cases

Beyond its core industrial functions, the Private 5G automated hoisting system can now be leveraged to deliver additional digital use cases, such as augmented operators enabled by XR (eXtended Reality) and wearable devices.

To learn more about this activation, please watch this video.

Note to editors:

Illustrative high-resolution images are available on request

Hashtags: #5G WirelessNetwork MWC Industry4.0 IntelligentIdustry

About Schneider Electric

Schneider's purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency.

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1 A Programmable Logic Controllerthat has been ruggedizedand adapted for the control of manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, machines, roboticdevices, or any activity that requires high reliability, ease of programming, and process fault diagnosis.

Attachment
Bright Pattern to deliver presentations on omnichannel and what's next at CCW Berlin on 28 February to 2 March.

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bright Pattern will be heading to CCW Berlin, which is recognized as Europe's biggest trade show for the world of CX, from 28 February to 2 March. Bright Pattern is widely regarded as one of the most technologically advanced cloud-based omnichannel CX solutions and will be delivering two engaging speaking sessions with two of the most intelligent and dynamic industry experts leading the presentations.





CCW Berlin is the predominant contact center event in the DACH region. Bright Pattern is rapidly expanding into the German market through partnerships with two of Bright Pattern's most important and essential DACH partners, Sogedes and Teleconnect GmbH.

Bright Pattern's first speaking session will be hosted by Daniel Tollenaere, ex-General Manager of Store Operations for Officeworks; the largest office supply chain in Australia. This presentation will be held on 28 February from 11:30 - 12:00. His presentation, titled "Omni-Enterprise CX - Go Beyond Omnichannel and More", will elaborate on Omni-Enterprise CX. This discussion revolves around bringing every single employee in the enterprise into any customer interaction on voice and digital channels. Officeworks was able to increase in-store responses by nearly 300% while boosting NPS significantly via the Bright Pattern Mobile App.

Bright Pattern's second speaking session will be hosted by Luc Cavelier, Head of Business Development in EMEA for Bright Pattern. Having over 30 years of experience, his presentation will be held on 1 March from 13:30 - 14:00. His thought-provoking presentation, titled "Making Omnichannel A Reality", explains the incredible benefits of true omnichannel and the process of implementing true omnichannel conversations in your call center.

Bright Pattern will set up on the show floor at official Booth #485. The Bright Pattern team is extremely excited to meet you at CCW Berlin and talk to you about delivering better customer experiences in your contact center. Bright Pattern will see you at CCW Berlin!

About Bright Pattern

Bright Pattern provides the simplest yet most powerful all-in-one omnichannel contact center solution with over 500 customers in 26 countries, including Bank of America, Bell24, Cable and Wireless, City of Brampton, Community Medical, Detroit Water, Enercare, EY, First Bank, Hairclub, Hurtigruten, Mediterranean Shipping Company, Naver, Officeworks, Pepsi, Randstad,SEIU, Southern Cross Health Insurance, Sun Country Airlines, Sylvan Learning, United Power, VW Bentley, YMCA, and Zillow. Bright Pattern is the highest rated omnichannel platform by customers and analysts , with the fastest ROI and time to deploy in the industry.





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SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Qianhai now appears to be the first stop for Hong Kong-invested financial institutions to enter the mainland, and Qianhai has made another breakthrough in financial innovation. On February 23, the Opinions on Providing Financial Support for the Comprehensive Deepening of Reform and Opening Up of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone (hereinafter referred to as the Opinions) was officially released. With it, Qianhai will play a greater role in helping Hong Kong integrate into the overall national development, according to the Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone.

The Opinions set out 30 financial measures, covering financial services related to people's livelihoods, mutual access between financial markets, the development of the modern financial industry, facilitation of cross-border trade, investment, financing, and strengthening of cooperation in financial supervision. More specifically, the newly-released measures include helping Hong Kong residents to open accounts with mainland banks, facilitating Hong Kong professionals to practice in the mainland, allowing financial securities institutions to carry out direct financing in Hong Kong, and pilot the transfer of private equity and venture capital shares. The 30 measures have further defined the path to achieving a higher and deeper level of financial opening up and cooperation with Hong Kong.

"The introduction of the 30 measures marks another round of promotion of mutual financial market access between Shenzhen and Hong Kong," said David Liao, co-chief executive of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited Asia-Pacific, in a recent interview, "The measures will lay the foundation for the convergence of financial rules and mechanisms in the Greater Bay Area, and allow the exploration of new paths for the high-level opening up of the mainland's financial industry."

Dah Sing Bank Shenzhen Branch, China's first bank with a dual operation license, was opened, and UBS Qianhai Wealth Management Co. Ltd., the first wholly foreign-owned wealth manager in the Greater Bay Area, was opened. DBS Bank became the largest shareholder in the Shenzhen Rural Commercial Bank, and HSBC increased its stake in HSBC Qianhai Securities to 90%. A number of internationally renowned financial institutions, including Standard Chartered, settled in Qianhai through QFLP.

In recent years, Qianhai's financial industry has constantly aligned with international standards, and Qianhai has continued to highlight its function as a demonstration window of the opening up of the financial industry in China. In terms of innovation for cross-border finance, Qianhai was the first in the country to implement six cross-border RMB services, namely cross-border RMB loans, cross-border bond issuance, cross-border RMB foreign currency cash pooling, cross-border equity investment, cross-border asset transfer, and cross-border financial infrastructure. Qianhai will continue to expand into other cross-border services. In 2022, Shenzhen and Hong Kong promulgated the first 18 measures for supporting venture capital investments in Qianhai, and Qianhai was to establish an international Shenzhen-Hong Kong venture capital cluster. The Qianhai Mercantile Exchange of HKEX Group has had a total of over 130 billion yuan of spot transactions. So far, 247 financial institutions have settled in and signed with Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong International Financial City, among which Hong Kong and foreign-funded institutions account for 30%.

Now, the Opinions have advanced new goals for the opening up of Qianhai's financial industry. By 2025, Qianhai will establish and gradually improve upon the policy and management system to focus on the expansion and opening up of the financial industry and the internationalization of RMB, accomplish high-level mutual access with Hong Kong's financial market, improve the system for monitoring, preventing, and resolving financial risks, and give finance a more prominent role in supporting the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. By 2035, a higher level of financial openness, based on the negative list, will be achieved, the cross-border capital flow will be more efficient and convenient, the financial rule system will be in line with the international system, and the financial environment will reach a world-class level. By then, Qianhai will play a greater role in leading the opening of the national financial industry.

The plan is for Qianhai to put together an implementation task list for the Opinions to set up a task plan, roadmap, timeline, and accountability system. Qianhai will strive to hold a Shenzhen-Hong Kong Financial Forum, strengthen the Shenzhen-Hong Kong financial regulatory cooperation system, prevent cross-border financial risks, and promote the further opening up and development of Qianhai.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/to-accelerate-shenzhen-hong-kongs-financial-connectivity-30-financial-measures-have-been-enacted-301756399.html
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / PJX Resources Inc. ("PJX") has discovered a locally mineralized diatreme breccia located approximately 500 metres west of the intrusive related gold-silver-copper prospect announced in news release dated Nov. 15, 2022. Part of the breccia margin is flooded with quartz, and locally contains high copper values; three grab samples from the margin of the breccia analyzed 8.79 %, 3.35 %, and 2.01% copper. This new discovery is about 500 metres west of the cluster of intrusive stocks and dykes that are associated with a variety of breccias and the historical Estella mine (zinc-lead-silver vein) in the Sullivan Mining District and the Vulcan Gold Belt in southeastern British Columbia, Canada.

Gold, silver, and copper mineralization occur in multi-phased, variably altered, and veined syenitic/alkalic porphyritic intrusions. The intrusive phases locally contain disseminated sulphides (see photo A). For example, grab sample MS22-57 with quartz veining from this phase analyzed 6.9 g/t gold, 447 g/t silver and 1.108% copper (see Fig 1)

The diatreme breccia (photo B) locally has magnetite as the matrix (photo C) with quartz flooding occurring along the margin (photo D). Three grab samples from quartz vein flooding in the brecciated gabbro from the margin area contained copper, silver, and anomalous gold, zinc, nickel, and cobalt (see table 1 and photo D).

Sample Number Copper ** Silver * Gold * Zinc * Nickel * Cobalt * Iron * Sulfur * % PPM PPB PPM PPM PPM % % DT-22-65 2.018 7.2 32.6 36 31 20.8 4.68 1.93 DT-22-66 3.352 2.5 264 100 55.1 92.3 8.38 1.88 DT-22-67 8.791 20.6 111.9 5541 55.8 34.1 11.67 4.75 Notes: 1000 ppb = 1 ppm = 1 g/t 10,000 ppm = 1% *Analysis by Aqua Regia digestion with a Mass Spectrometry (MS) finish. **Analyses exceeding the analytical limit of MS finish were re-analyzed by Emission Spectrometry (ES) to provide the precise ppm or % value.

Table 1 - Rock grab samples of quartz veining with chalcopyrite and/or malachite (copper mineralization) in an irregular brecciaed gabbro on the margin of the diatreme breccia.

John Keating, President of PJX commented: "Geological, geophysical and mineralogical data support the potential for discovery of a large, mineralized magmatic centre on the Dewdney Trail Property. Intrusive related copper-gold-silver-molybdenum deposits, such as the Butte Mining District in Montana, are associated with such centers."

Figure 1 - Estella Basin Geology with rock grab sample gold analyses from alkalic (syenite) intrusions. The location of a diatreme breccia and photos A to E are also shown.

Photo A - Altered Syenite/Alkalic Porphyry with disseminated sulphides in the matrix. Rock grab sample MS22-57 of this porphyry phase with quartz veins analyzed 6.9 g/t gold, 447 g/t silver and 1.108% copper.

Photo B - Diatreme breccia with round to elongated rock fragments (clasts) aligned in the same orientation.

Photo C - Diatreme Breccia with magnetite (black mineral) matrix.

Photo D - Puzzle or jigsaw in appearance breccia with quartz veining cutting a gabbro sill on margin of diatreme. Grab samples of malachite and/or chalcopyrite with veining analyzed 8.7%, 3.3%, and 2.0% copper.

Photo E - View Looking east-northeast, approximate location of view is shown on Fig 1. Location of rock grab sample MS22-57 is shown as a reference for sample locations shown in Fig 1. Approximate positions of intrusive contacts are shown by dashed white lines. Only part of the top of the intrusions have been exposed by erosion.

Geological Significance

Gold, silver, and copper mineralization occur with quartz veins and variably altered alkalic intrusives.

Erosion has only exposed part of the tops of the intrusives (see photo E). Therefore, there is potential for deposits to occur near surface and at depth as they would not have been eroded.

Intrusives occur as a cluster for at least 600 metres along strike.

Figure 2 displays the relative locations of photos A, B, C, and D in relation to a geological model for calc-alkalic intrusive related copper-gold-silver-molybdenum systems. Alkalic intrusions at the Estella Basin have characteristics that are similar, such as copper-gold-silver mineralization at the top of the system and the presence of diatreme breccias.

Figure 2 - This is a porphyry copper calc-alkalic intrusive model by Richard Sillitoe (2010). The alkalic intrusive type system at the Estella Basin has a number of similar characteristics, such as gold-silver and copper mineralization at the top of the system and the presence of diatreme breccias. Photos A, B, C and D are displayed in possible relative positions within the model.

Additional information relating to geophysics and the potential at depth are pending along with an assessment of drill results from drilling on the Lewis Ridge airborne EM (using MobileMT technology) and magnetic target approximately 3 km to the north of the Estella Basin intrusive related mineralisation.

DD-NZOU-Moby Dick Property Update

DLP Resources Inc. ("DLP") has notified PJX of their intention to return the DD Property to PJX effective February 24, 2023. DLP had an option to earn up to a 75% interest in the DD Property. Unfortunately, the last hole drilled, in May 2022 on the Moby Dick Property, was not completed as it became stuck in a fault at about 1300 metres deep before it could test a Magnetotelluric (MT) geophysical anomaly at a target depth of about 1700m. Additional MT anomalies at target depths of about 1700 metres occur on the DD, Moby Dick and NZOU properties. PJX Resources retains a 100% interest in the DD Property. PJX has a 50% interest in Moby Dick Property with the right to earn a 50% interest in the NZOU Property which are both adjacent to the DD Property. DLP has indicated that they will now focus on the Sullivan-type Zn-Pb-Ag targets on the Moby Dick and NZOU properties.

Qualified Persons

The foregoing geological disclosure has been reviewed and approved by John Keating P.Geo. (qualified persons for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects). Mr. Keating is the President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of PJX.

About PJX Resources Inc.

PJX is a mineral exploration company focused on building shareholder value and community opportunity through the exploration and development of mineral resources with a focus on gold, silver and base metals (zinc, lead, copper, nickel). PJX's primary properties are located in the historical Sullivan Mine District and Vulcan Gold Belt near Cranbrook and Kimberley, British Columbia.

Please refer to our web site http://www.pjxresources.com for additional information.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Linda Brennan, Chief Financial Officer

(416) 799-9205

info@pjxresources.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

The information in this news release has been prepared as at the date noted above. Certain statements in this news release, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", constitute "forward-looking statements" under the provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws. These statements can be identified by the use of words such as "expected", "may", "will" or similar terms.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by PJX Resources Inc. as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, known and unknown, could cause actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Except as otherwise required by law, PJX Resources Inc. expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statements to reflect any change in PJX Resources Inc.'s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Cautionary Note to US Investors:

This news release may contain information about adjacent properties on which PJX Resources Inc. has no right to explore or mine. 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. This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.

This press release uses the terms "Measured", "Indicated", and "Inferred" resources. United States investors are advised that while such terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. "Inferred Mineral Resources" have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies. United States investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of Measured or Indicated Mineral Resources will ever be converted into Mineral Reserves. United States investors are also cautioned not to assume that all or any part of a Mineral Resource is economically or legally mineable.

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.

SOURCE: PJX Resources Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/740718/PJX-Resources-Copper-Gold-Silver-Mineralization-in-Sullivan-Mining-District-and-DD-Property-Update
Final assays received from Infill campaign; highlights include: FSA-290: 15m at 5.79 Au g/t from 309m; and FSA-314: 17m at 2.87 g/t Au from 105m and 14m at 3.41 g/t Au from 130m

2023 Exploration Campaign Underway - Initial exploration hole; FNE-01, intersects visible gold 500m northeast of known mineralization at Serra Alta

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Cerrado Gold Inc. [TSX.V:CERT][OTCQX:CRDOF] ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the final assay results from the 2022 infill/extensional drill program completed earlier this year at the Serra Alta deposit at its Monte do Carmo Project located in Tocantins State, Brazil ("MDC").

The 2022 drill program aimed to upgrade resources at the Serra Alta deposit into the Measured and Indicated categories, target new satellites & extensional zones, condemn areas of project infrastructure and support the ongoing Feasibility Study. The full drilling results are being incorporated into the geological model and will be integrated in the resource update to be completed with the Feasibility Study in 2Q 2023. The 2022 program consisted of 193 drill holes, totaling 48,842 m; including 157 holes at Serra Alta and 36 holes in satellite exploration areas.

The Company is currently reporting assay results from 9 drill holes, totaling 2,882m (see Tables 1 & 2) completed in Q4 2022. Results reported today, complete the full program assays with the exception of two holes which are being re-assayed for QAQC purposes.

Additionally, the company is pleased to report that the first exploration step out drillhole, FNE-01, of the 2023 exploration campaign has been completed with evidence of visible gold mineralization; assays are pending. The hole targeted a permissive structural zone located more than 500m to the northeast of the current resource outline. The area is believed to replicate the main elements controlling gold mineralization in the different sectors at Serra Alta.

Drill Hole Highlights (All composites are reported as true thickness):

FSA-290

15m at 5.79 Au g/t from 309m Including 2m at 28.66 Au g/t from 310m

33m at 1.35g/t Au from 363m Including 2m at 7.70 g/t Au from 367m



FSA-314

17m at 2.87 g/t Au from 105m

14m at 3.41 g/t Au from 130m

FSA-323

25m at 1.60 g/t Au from 149m Including 2m at 9.91 g/t Au from 149m



Mark Brennan, CEO and Co-Chairman commented "After a successful Infill drill campaign we are pleased to be back in exploration mode to target the greater resource potential we see on the larger Monte do Carmo property. As we are still in the Discovery Stage at Monte do Carmo, we are confident that the potential for additional Serra Alta style discoveries remains strong as we continue to explore the largely undrilled land package."

New Exploratory Zone: Northeast

Detailed analysis of recently reprocessed airborne magnetic data suggests that the dominant shear zone (Dk 2), considered one of the main structural controls in Serra Alta, extends to the Northeast. As shown in Figure 1. below.

Figure 1. Magnetics and Dk2 shear zone

As part of the Company's 2023 exploration program at Monte Do Carmo, Cerrado has commenced a program targeting several new areas outside Serra Alta. The first hole was collared more than 500 m from the current resource outline at Serra Alta.

The target is blind, covered by both sedimentary and volcanic cover. As of February 18th, 2023, the first hole (FNE-01) was terminated at a depth of 711.6 m and had reached the permissive granites. The granite resembles Serra Alta main mineralization host and exhibits both potassic alteration and quartz veins. Notably, 3 occurrences of Visible Gold (traditionally a proxy of high grade at Serra Alta) have been recorded in the first few meters of the altered granite. The full program in the New Exploratory Zone encompasses an additional 4 to 5 holes aiming to understand vectors towards more intense and continuous mineralization.

Figure 2. Northeast Exploration Target

Infill Drill Campaign

East Zone

Drill holes FSA-290, FSA-321, and FSA-322 were collared in the East Zone. The best reported intercepts in the East Zone correspond to holes FSA-290 that intercepted several relevant intervals proximal to the granite/felsic contact zone, totalling a cumulative width of more than 140 m through hole extent. The best single interval encompassed 15m at 5.79 Au g/t from 309m, including 2m@ 28.66 Au g/t from 310m.

Pit Norte

Drill Holes FSA-297, FSA-314, FSA-323 and FSA 326 were collared in Pit Norte.

Hole FSA-314 collared in the northern part of the zone, produced outstanding results, partially extending laterally the high-grade Doman . Highlights include 17m at 2.87 g/t Au from 105m, and 14m at 3.41 g/t Au from 130m.

East 3 (E3)

Drill Holes FSA-324 targeted the E3 domain. Mineralization in E3 relates to the occurrence of granitic porphyry dyke with a general West/Northwest direction, that provides a permissive host rock and fluid conduits to upper stratigraphic levels. The hole failed to cross the most endowed area but proved that upper felsic volcanics are mineralized in this area producing 4 m at 0.67 g/t at 356m. This hole will allow a better outline of this domain.

Figure 3. Reported and Ongoing Drill Hole Locations

Figure 4. Select Highlighted Cross Sections of Reported Holes

East Zone Pit Norte

E3





*Scales vary by section

Table 1. Drill Hole Composites

Table 2. Drill Hole Collar Table

Sector Hole number UTM N

m UTM E

m Elevation

m Depth

m Azimuth Dip Gogo FGO-032 8811022 820555 538 269.8 160 -24 East 3 FSA-324 8810424 820895 659 537.8 84 -56 East Zone FSA-290 8810326 820601 579 533.5 98 -27 East Zone FSA-321 8810516 820631 667 260.1 106 -49 East Zone FSA-322 8810259 820323 505 210.5 139 -46 Pit Norte FSA-297 8809987 820477 477 195.0 120 -26 Pit Norte FSA-314 8810070 820502 505 381.6 110 -39 Pit Norte FSA-323 8810068 820502 505 250.0 122 -40 Pit Norte FSA-326 8810090 820509 500 243.8 105 -38

*Collar coordinates by GNSS TP-20 UTM Coordinates, Datum: SAD69 / zone 22S.

*Azimuth Set by compass

*Dip and drill hole trajectory by SPT (Stockholm Precision Tools) GyroMaster

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Analytical work was carried out by ALS international lab (ALS). MDC send half core samples for sample preparation to the lab. The facilities of the prep lab are located in Goiania, Brazil 835 km from the MDC project and alternatively in Belo Horizonte, Brazil 1,110 Km from the MDC project. MDC sends out samples to ALS international labs (ALS) with the prep lab located in Goiania or alternatively in Belo Horizonte. ALS lab sends the prepared aliquots for analytical assay to their lab in Lima, Peru where the prepared samples are systematically analyzed for gold (ppm) by fire assay (Au-AA24) or gold (ppm) by metallic screen (Au-SCR24). Randomly the ICP (Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) is done for trace elements in 4 acids (hydrofluoric, perchloric, nitric and hydrochloric) digestion (ME-MS-61). ALS has routine quality control procedures which ensure that every batch of samples includes three sample repeats and at least two commercial standards and two blanks. Cerrado uses standard QA/QC procedures, inserting reference standards and blanks, for the drilling program. The Reference material used are from CDN Resource Laboratories Ltd., ITAK (Instituto de Tecnologia August Kekule Ltda. and OREAS).

Review of Technical Information

The scientific and technical information in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Sergio Gelcich, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration for Cerrado Gold Inc., who is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101.

Mark Brennan

CEO and Co Chairman

Tel: +1-647-796-0023

mbrennan@cerradogold.com

David Ball

Vice President, Corporate Development

Tel: +1-647-796-0068

dball@cerradogold.com

About Cerrado

Cerrado is a Toronto based gold production, development and exploration company focused on gold projects in the Americas. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina, and the highly prospective development project, Monte Do Carmo located in Tocantins State, Brazil.

At Minera Don Nicolas, Cerrado is maximising asset value through further operation optimization and continued production growth. An extensive campaign of exploration is ongoing to further unlock potential resources in our highly prospective land package.

At Monte Do Carmo, Cerrado is rapidly advancing the Serra Alta deposit through Feasibility and production. The Serra Alta deposit Indicated Resources of 541 kozs of contained gold and Inferred Resources of 780 kozs of contained gold. The Preliminary Economic Assessment demonstrates robust economics as well as the potential to be one of the industry's lowest cost producers. Cerrado also holds an extensive and highly prospective 82,542 ha land package at Monte Do Carmo.

For more information about Cerrado please visit our website at: www.cerradogold.com.

Disclaimer

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 press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation, all statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the business and operations of Cerrado. In making the forward- looking statements contained in this press release, Cerrado has made certain assumptions, including, but not limited to continuing progress of the Resource update or the results of ongoing exploration. Although Cerrado believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this press release. Except as required by law, Cerrado disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise.

SOURCE: Cerrado Gold Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/740849/Cerrado-Gold-Reports-Final-Assays-from-Infill-Drill-Program-at-Its-Monte-Do-Carmo-Project-in-Brazil
Cranbrook, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - DLP Resources Inc. (TSXV: DLP) (OTCQB: DLPRF) ("DLP" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that drilling of the fourth diamond drill hole, on the Aurora porphyry copper-molybdenum project in Peru, has commenced.

Exploration Update

DD-Moby Dick-NZOU (Sullivan-type Zn-Pb-Ag Targets)

DLP has terminated the option agreement to earn up to 75% of PJX Resources Incs' (PJX) DD property as of February 24, 2023. DLP will now focus on the Sullivan-type Zn-Pb-Ag targets on the Moby Dick project and the NZOU project.

DLP and PJX each have a 50% interest in the Moby Dick property and DLP has an option to earn 100% of the NZOU property (see DLP news release dated August 20, 2020).

PJX also has the right to earn a 50% interest in the NZOU property.

Aurora Project (Porphyry Cu-Mo Target)

Aurora is a porphyry copper-molybdenum project in Southern Peru with the potential to host a significant copper-molybdenum mineralized system. (Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4). Drilling of three diamond drills was completed in 2022 and results have been released for A22-001, A22-002 and A22-003 (see DLP news releases dated December 05, 2022, and January 05, 2023). Significant copper and molybdenum mineralization was reported from the 2022 drilling with A22-003 reporting 664.30m at 0.33% Cu, 483.14ppm Mo and 3.23g/t Ag from 38m to 702.30m including 218m at 0.69% Cu, 161.77ppm Mo and 5.65ppm Ag from 132m to 350m (see DLP news release of January 05, 2023).

Continued drilling along extensions of known copper-molybdenum mineralization to the west will be done during the first half of 2023 (Figures 2, 3 and 4). Diamond drillhole A23-004 commenced on February 21 on an azimuth of 120 degrees and an inclination of -70 degrees. Planned depth for A23-004 is 700m.

Very encouraging quartz veining and visual copper and molybdenum mineralization was observed in and around the drill platform of A23-004 and we expect to be in mineralized rock within the upper 30m (Figure 5).





Figure 1: DLP Project areas with the Aurora and Esperanza properties shown.



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Figure 2. Historic drill holes, DLP-2022 drill holes and 2023 drill hole A23-004 on geology.



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Figure 3. Historic drill holes, DLP-2022 drill holes and 2023 drill hole A23-004 on chargeability - 50m depth plan.



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Figure 4. Historic drill holes, DLP-2022 drill holes and 2023 drill hole A23-004 on geology.

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Figure 5. Aurora Copper-Molybdenum Project - Porphyry outcrop on Drill Platform A23-004 with quartz veins with molybdenite and chalcopyrite-covellite in matrix.



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Hungry Creek and Copper Creek Projects (Sediment Hosted - Stratiform Copper-Silver-Cobalt Targets)

Drilling of five drill holes (1442m) on Hungry Creek and one drill hole on Copper Creek (386.16m) was completed at the end of August 2022 (Figures 6 and 7). Both the Hungry Creek and Copper Creek drilling, targeted sediment hosted - stratiform copper-silver-cobalt mineralization within the middle to Upper Creston Formation.





Figure 6. Location of Hungry Creek and Copper Creek Cu-Co Projects.



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Hungry Creek Drilling Summary

Target 711 was the focus of the 2022 drilling at Hungry Creek where encouraging copper mineralization was reported from seven grab and two float samples (see DLP press release dated November 30, 2021). Copper up to 1.15% and anomalous silver of up to 3.51ppm together with anomalous cobalt (up to 117.6ppm) and barium (up to 4,274 ppm) were also reported.

Visual copper mineralization in the form of chalcopyrite was observed in the 2022 drill holes on the 711 target (Figure 7). Intense sericite alteration in the upper Creston Formation quartzites together with carbonate alteration in the form of ankerite was associated with the mineralization.

Anomalous copper and cobalt were encountered in the 711 drilling with the best intervals being:

9.17m of 114.21ppm Cu and 48.91ppm Co in HC22-01.

12.73m of 384.36ppm Cu and 3.11ppm Co from 154.08m to 166.73in HC22-02.

7m of 211.93ppm Cu and 4.86ppm Co from 39m to 46m in HC22-06.

HC22-01

HC 22-01 commenced on July 24,2022 and was completed to 301.77m on July 28, 2022. Drilling commenced in argillites of the Dutch Creek Formation down to 12m and then intersected Middle Creston Formation quartzites and interbedded argillites down to 301.77m. Narrow gabbro sills were noted from 42.40 - 45.72m and from 50 - 57.29m. Alteration included moderate to intense silicification and sericitization throughout the Middle Creston Formation down to 228.6m with the last 73.17m having moderate to strong sericite and chlorite alteration. Mineralization included pyrite and chalcopyrite disseminated in the upper quartzite unit from 16 to 61.93m (see Figures 7, 8 and 9 and Table 1).

Sampling of zone with chalcopyrite from 16.9m to 61.93m returned the following best results: 42.23m to 61.93m (19.70m) of 69.48ppm Cu and 34.28ppm Co. 50.00 to 59.16m (9.16m) of 114,21m Cu and 48.91ppm Co.



HC22-02

HC22-02 commenced on July 29, 2022 in Middle Creston Formation argillites and ended on August 01, 2022, at 300.50m in Middle Creston Formation Quartzites. (Figures 8 and 9 and Table 1).

Sampling of the zone with chalcopyrite from 93.12m to 182.14m returned the following: Interval from 122.28m to 132.50m (9.7m) of 218.87ppm Cu and 3.03ppm Co. Interval from 154.08m to 166.73 (12.73m) of 384.36ppm Cu and 3.11ppm Co. Anomalous copper values were observed throughout the sampled interval with the highest value being 707ppm Cu from 162.97m to 163.59m.



HC22-06

HC22-06 commenced on August 14. 2022 in overburden of the Dutch Creek Formation and ended on August 16, 2022 at 300.50m in Middle Creston Formation Quartzites.

Sampling of zones with visually disseminated chalcopyrite from 39m to 167.20m was completed. Results returned a 7m interval from 39m to 46m with 211.93ppm Cu and 4.86ppm Co. Spotty values of anomalous copper was observed throughout the 64m interval with the highest value being 729ppm Cu from 62.50m to 63.00m.





Table 1: Summary of drill results for HC22-01, HC22-02 and HC22-06



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Table 2: Diamond drill location, depth, azimuth and inclination



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Figure 7. Hungry Creek Project - Summary of copper showings, 2022 reconnaissance rock samples and drilling on the 711 Target.



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Figure 8. Hungry Creek 711 Target area with drill holes shown.



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Figure 9. Hungry Creek - Legend for 711 Target area - Figure 8 above.



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Copper Creek Drilling Summary

Drilling of CC22-01 commenced on August 20 and was completed on August 27 at a depth of 386.16m. The hole was angled at -45 degrees on azimuth of 135 degrees and co-ordinates are: 5523171N and 574113E (Figure 7).

CC22-01, was drilled in upper to middle Creston Formation rocks to a depth of 386.16m. Fine grained pyrite and arsenopyrite was noted in the hole with sericite and silica alteration within the package of argillites, siltstones and quartzites of the middle to upper Creston Formation.

Sampled sections with pyrite and arsenopyrite mineralization reported weakly anomalous copper and cobalt with the best intervals being:

39.50m to 67.20m (27.7m) of 19.91ppm Cu and 7.66ppm Co.

137.1 to 139.10m (2m) of 72ppm Cu and 8.5ppm Co.

Further drilling of another three holes in the main core zone is permitted for 2023 (Figure 10).





Table 3. Summary of drill results for CC22-01



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Figure 10. Copper Creek Project - Historic grab rock sample results with 2022 drilling of CC22-01 shown in blue circle.



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Ian Gendall, CEO & President of DLP commented, "We are very excited with the start-up of the 2023 drilling on the Aurora porphyry copper-molybdenum project and we anticipate a continuous flow of drill results from April onwards. Both copper and molybdenum mineralization have been observed on the initial 2023 drill pad of A22-004 and it is expected mineralization will continue down to our planned depth of 700m as was observed in A22-003.

"In addition to the Peru drilling, we have encountered copper mineralized quartzites - Revett-type copper mineralization at the Hungry Creek and Copper Creek projects in southeastern BC. Further prospecting and additional sampling over the multiple copper targets extending over 12 to 20 km from the 711 target will now be completed in the summer of 2023. Drilling of 386.16m in CC22-01 on one anomalous copper target at Copper Creek was encouraging and we will now extend drilling to the core zone this summer."

QA/QC

All core samples (NQ diameter) were cut with a diamond saw. One-half of the core was placed in numbered and sealed bags and sent via secure transport to MSA Laboratory in Langley, BC for sample preparation and analyses. Core and rock samples were crushed down to 2 mm and a 250g split was pulverized to better than 85% passing 75m. Samples were subjected to a 4-acid digestion and analyzed for silver and an additional 33 elements using inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICP-ES). MSALabs is an ISO 9001 registered laboratory and has a quality control program in place which includes the insertion of standard, blank, and duplicate samples, as well as conducting repeat analyses.

DLP's QA/QC program includes the insertion of standards and blank material into the sample sequence with the normal core and rock samples to monitor sampling variances, laboratory precision and accuracy.

Qualified Person

David L. Pighin, consulting geologist and co-founder of DLP Resources, is the qualified person of the Company as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Pighin has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

About DLP Resources Inc.

DLP Resources Inc. is a mineral exploration company operating in Southeastern British Columbia and Peru, exploring for Base Metals and Cobalt. DLP is listed on the TSX-V, trading symbol DLP and on the OTCQB, trading symbol DLPRF. Please refer to our web site www.dlpresourcesinc.com for additional information.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

DLP RESOURCES INC.

Ian Gendall, CEO & President

Jim Stypula, Executive Chairman

Robin Sudo, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary

Maxwell Reinhart, Investor Relations

Telephone: 250-426-7808

Email: iangendall@dlpresourcesinc.com

Email: jimstypula@dlpresourcesinc.com

Email: robinsudo@dlpresourcesinc.com

Email: maxreinhart@dlpresourcesinc.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to drilling on the Aurora Project in Peru.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things drill results expected from the Aurora Project in Peru.

These forward-looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things drill results outlined regarding the Hungry Creek project.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that: the Company will obtain the required regulatory approvals for continued drilling on the Copper Creek project.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156200
LONDON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fineqia International Inc. (the "Company" or "Fineqia") (CSE: FNQ) (OTC: FNQQF) (Frankfurt: FNQA) is pleased to announce its sponsorship of a digital collectable auction, "From Ukraine with Love", to support the CARE International's Ukraine appeal and Ukrainians living in the United Kingdom. The auction will take place on Feb. 27, 2023, at 18:30 GMT and will be hosted by The NFT (Non-Fungible Token) Gallery in London.

The CARE International Ukraine Appeal is a humanitarian effort aimed at providing relief and support to people affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.

This unique collection has been created by British Politician and former Secretary of State for Digital, Matt Hancock, and features the work of Ukrainian Artist, Oleg Mischenko. Mischenko's family fled Ukraine following the Russian invasion last year. They sought refuge with Mr. Hancock's family in the MP's Suffolk constituency. The NFT collection will be available for bidding on Coinbase Marketplace from 19:30 GMT on the same day. The auction will close at 21:30 GMT.

"Our team at Fineqia is honored to be a part of this humanitarian effort," said Bundeep Singh Rangar, CEO of Fineqia. "It is important for us to support causes that are dear to us, and this is an opportunity to show our support for the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal through digital collectibles."

Fineqia is proud to support this important cause and contribute to the efforts to assist those affected by the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. The Company believes that it is essential to lend support to communities in need, especially in times of crisis, and encourages others to do the same.

Fineqia supported the NFTforRefugees auction in Dubai on Oct. 20, 2022 (https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/FNQ-CN/pressreleases/10870916/fineqia-supports-artco-charity-auction-in-partnership-with-nft4refugees-in-dubai/ )

In June 2020, Fineqia supported Art&Co., the largest online art auction for Covid 19 relief and raised funds for seven registered charities and 46 artists. (https://edition.cnn.com/business/newsfeeds/prnewswire/202006270844PR_NEWS_USPR_____VA48281.html).

About Fineqia International Inc.

Fineqia (www.fineqia.com) is a digital asset business that primarily builds and targets investments in early and growth stage technology companies that will be part of Web 3, the next generation of the Internet. Publicly listed in Canada (CSE: FNQ) with offices in Toronto and London, Fineqia's portfolio of investments includes businesses that are at the forefront of tokenization, blockchain technology, NFTs, crypto and fintech.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Some statements in this release may contain forward-looking information (as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws) ("forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that Fineqia (the "Company") believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding potential acquisitions and financings) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of the words "may", "will", "should", "continue", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "believe", "intend", "plan" or "project" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict, that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, without limitation, the failure to obtain sufficient financing, and other risks disclosed in the Company's public disclosure record on file with the relevant securities regulatory authorities. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made except as may be required by applicable securities laws. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement except to the extent required by applicable securities laws.

Contact: Katarina Kupcikova, Analyst, E. katarina.kupcikova@fineqia.com, T. +44 7806 730 769; Bundeep Singh Rangar, CEO, E. bundeep.rangar@fineqia.com, T. +1 778 654 2324



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Jacob Joseph, VP-Data Science, CleverTap

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. and MUMBAI, India, Feb 27, 2023 - (ACN Newswire) - CleverTap, the modern integrated retention cloud, released its Industry Benchmark Report for Fintech Apps 2022. As fintech apps continue to grow more popular, the number of players vying for market share has increased. This has subsequently reduced customer retention and "stickiness" for any one brand. Therefore, today more than ever, it is crucial that fintech companies find ways to drive customer "stickiness" by engaging users in effective ways that eventually drive transactions and fuel growth. The report reflects data collected from Asia-Pacific, Europe, India, Latin America, Middle-East, and North America. The report gives marketers a truly holistic view of key metrics within the fintech app landscape. It also spans a wide variety of fintech apps, including, but not limited to, mobile payment apps, cryptocurrency, and block chain services, along with banking and insurance among others.These insights will not only serve as a helpful starting point for developing successful engagement strategies, but also assist in understanding how an app fares in comparison to global averages. Some of the key metrics in the report include:- Install to sign-up rate: Only 1 in 5 users that install fintech apps (21%) end up signing up within the first week.- Average time to sign-up: 70% of the users that sign-up, do so within 75 seconds of launching the app for the first time.- Sign-up to conversion rate: 95% of newly signed-up users make at least one financial transaction in the first month.- Average time to to convert: 76% of newly signed-up users move from onboarding to deeper-in-the-funnel engagement within an average of 7 days.- Session frequency: On average, fintech app users launch their app around 11 times a month.- Average repeat transaction rate for new users: 15% of newly signed-up users complete more than one transaction in the first week.- Average click through rate for push notifications: On average, 9% of Android users and 6% of iOS users will click on and interact with push notifications.- Average click through rate for in-app notifications: The click through rate for in-app notifications is 24%, that's about 3 times more than that of push notifications.- Average email open rate: 34% users open emails sent by fintech companies.- Average Stickiness Quotient: Fintech apps enjoy a stickiness quotient of 22%, that indicates nearly one-quarter of MAUs consistently return to their fintech apps."The fintech industry has seen exponential growth in the last few years. Given the relentless competition within the space, fintech platforms need to step up their Omnichannel engagement efforts to better retain customers", said Jacob Joseph, VP-Data Science, CleverTap. "The benchmark metrics laid out in our report provide a great starting point for growth marketers looking to develop effective marketing strategies. They will be able to compare numbers against global averages and pinpoint which aspects they are excelling at and which areas could use some attention or innovation."95% of new fintech users complete a monetary transaction in the first month. This shows that while users see value in fintech apps, it's important to adopt customized user engagement strategies to boost retention on the platform. Today there is a real need for fintech brands to bake-in effective marketing strategies within their apps. Users will remain responsive as long as the experience is engaging and seamless. The benchmark report helps fintech apps understand how to build successful mobile communication campaigns, and also allows growth marketers to discover areas that require greater focus.The report can be downloaded here. https://clevertap.com/insights/mobile-payment-apps-benchmarks-report/About CleverTapCleverTap is the World's #1 Retention Cloud that helps app-first brands personalize and optimize all consumer touch points to improve user engagement, retention, and lifetime value. It's the only solution built to address the needs of retention and growth teams, with audience analytics, deep-segmentation, multi-channel engagement, product recommendations, and automation in one unified product.The platform is powered by TesseractDB - the world's first purpose-built database for customer engagement, offering both speed and economies of scale.CleverTap is trusted by 2000 customers, including Gojek, Electronic Arts, TED, English Premier League, TD Bank, Carousell, AirAsia, Papa Johns, and Tesco.Backed by leading investors such as Sequoia India, Tiger Global, Accel, and CDPQ the company is headquartered in Mountain View, California, with presence in San Francisco, New York, Sao Paulo, Bogota, London, Amsterdam, Sofia, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, and Jakarta.For more information, visit clevertap.com or follow on LinkedIn and Twitter.Forward-Looking StatementsSome of the statements in this press release may represent CleverTap's belief in connection with future events and may be forward-looking statements, or statements of future expectations based on currently available information. CleverTap cautions that such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties that could result in the actual outcome being absolutely different from the results anticipated by the statements mentioned in the press release.Factors such as the development of general economic conditions affecting our business, future market conditions, our ability to maintain cost advantages, uncertainty with respect to earnings, corporate actions, client concentration, reduced demand, liability or damages in our service contracts, unusual catastrophic loss events, war, political instability, changes in government policies or laws, legal restrictions impacting our business, impact of pandemic, epidemic, any natural calamity and other factors that are naturally beyond our control, changes in the capital markets and other circumstances may cause the actual events or results to be materially different, from those anticipated by such statements. CleverTap does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness or updated or revised status of such statements. Therefore, in no case whatsoever will CleverTap and its affiliate companies be liable to anyone for any decision made or action taken in conjunction.For more information:SONY SHETTYDirector, Public Relations, CleverTap+91 9820900036sony@clevertap.comIPSHITA BALUConsultantArchetype+91 95901 11798ipshita.balu@archetype.coSource: CleverTapCopyright 2023 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Faraday Copper Corp. ("Faraday" or the "Company") (TSX:FDY) is pleased to announce the acquisition of a land package (the "Mercer Ranch") for US$10 million (the "Acquisition"), consisting of approximately 6,000 deeded acres within 32,000 acres of controlled ranch land (Figure 1). The acquisition aligns with the Company's strategy of land consolidation, advancing and de-risking the Copper Creek Project.

Paul Harbidge, President and CEO, commented "The Mercer Ranch purchase is an important milestone at this early stage of advancing the Copper Creek Project that provides numerous benefits. The Mercers are supportive stakeholders and neighbours and will continue to operate the ranch for the foreseeable future."

Acquisition of Mercer Ranch (Figure 1)

Approximately 6,000 deeded acres (private land) within approximately 32,000 acres of surface rights through active grazing leases

Acquisition cost: US$10 million US$250,000 non-refundable deposit paid in 2022 Closing subject to customary conditions and filings

Strategic benefits Location for potential third-party solar power generation facility Land offsets for areas impacted by mining activities Additional infrastructure locations and flexibility Secondary mine access corridor Mineral and water rights



Figure 1: Land Overview - Copper Creek and Mercer Ranch

About Faraday Copper

Faraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing its flagship copper project in Arizona, U.S. The Copper Creek project is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with open pit and bulk underground mining potential. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY".

For additional information please contact:

Stacey Pavlova, CFA

Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications

Faraday Copper Corp.

E-mail: info@faradaycopper.com

Website: www.faradaycopper.com

To receive news releases by e-mail, please register using the Faraday website at www.faradaycopper.com.

Cautionary Note on Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the potential benefits of the Mercer Ranch acquisition and the expected use for the Mercer Ranch.

Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses; lower than expected grades and quantities of resources; receipt of regulatory approval; receipt of shareholder approval; mining rates and recovery rates; significant capital requirements; price volatility in the spot and forward markets for commodities; fluctuations in rates of exchange; taxation; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which Faraday does or may carry on business; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, competition; loss of key employees; rising costs of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; accidents; labour disputes; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of Indigenous peoples and other groups; risks, uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements, including those associated with the Copper Creek property; and uncertainties with respect to any future acquisitions by Faraday. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks as well as "Risk Factors" included in Faraday's disclosure documents filed on and available at www.sedar.com.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. This press release is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, a prospectus, an offering memorandum, an advertisement or a public offering of securities in Faraday in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. No securities commission or similar authority in Canada or in the United States has reviewed or in any way passed upon this press release, and any representation to the contrary is an offence.

SOURCE: Faraday Copper Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/739924/Faraday-Copper-Announces-Acquisition-of-Mercer-Ranch-at-Copper-Creek-Project-in-Arizona
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Technology company Leidos (LDOS) announced Monday the appointment of Thomas Bell as Chief Executive Officer, expected to be effective May 3, 2023. Bell, current President - Defense Rolls-Royce plc; Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce North America, Inc., will succeed current Chairman and CEO, Roger Krone, who has served in the role since 2014. Krone will retire as Chairman at the time of the Leidos 2023 annual meeting of stockholders, and CEO when Bell's appointment becomes effective. The Board expects to appoint Robert Shapard independent, non-executive chair after the 2023 annual meeting of stockholders and will also nominate Bell to the Board. To facilitate a seamless leadership transition, Krone will continue as a fully employed advisor through July of this year. Prior to his current role, Bell was senior vice president of global sales & marketing for defense, space & security at The Boeing Co. Before joining Boeing in 2015, he was President of Rolls-Royce Defense Aerospace, having joined as President, Customer Business, North America in mid-2012. Previously he spent more than two decades with Boeing in a variety of leadership positions within the defense, space and security business and began his aerospace career with Lockheed Martin in human space flight. Copyright(c) 2023 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.
Acquisition extends ACRE's global customer base and go-to-market, and further consolidates access control applications

LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / ACRE, a global leader providing state-of-the-art security systems, has completed its acquisition of the PremiSys software and hardware portfolio and assets.

The security market continues to provide opportunities for ACRE to drive consolidation and acquire technologies that broaden its portfolio and serve the expanding needs of its customer base.

PremiSys' technologies enable organizations to self-manage door access, view integrated video and lockdown facilities. The acquisition also extends opportunities for ACRE in healthcare, education, data centers, and senior living facilities.

"Since its inception, ACRE's overarching goal has been to consolidate access control and customers under one umbrella," said Darren Learmonth, CTO, ACRE. "This acquisition represents another important step in ACRE's transformation, solidifying the company as the leader in the rapidly growing access control market."

This deal follows a history of acquisitive growth for ACRE. In 2021, it purchased Feenics and Matrix to address evolving customer requirements in cloud and enterprise segments, and added SISCO to its growing family of brands in 2022.

The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

About ACRE

ACRE is a global leader in the delivery of integrated technologies and services. Since its formation in 2012, ACRE has played an instrumental role in the development and implementation of security technology initiatives on a global scale. Today, ACRE employs more than 500 employees in more than 25 countries. For more information, visit www.acre-co.com.

Press contact:

Rhianna Daniels

Tel: +1 813 944 7464

rhianna@compassintegrated.com

SOURCE: ACRE



View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/740876/ACRE-Acquires-The-PremiSys-Software-and-Hardware-Portfolio-and-Assets-from-IDenticard
This initiative will enable the foundation to assist vulnerable people living on the streets with food, shelter and healthcare.

Sydney, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Ruban Sohana, the Director of Win Square Finance, has announced that the company will donate 10% of its gross revenue to the Win Square Foundation. The donated funds will help in reducing homelessness in Australia by providing the basic necessities to those living on the streets.





Ruban Sohana

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"Homelessness does not discriminate between men or women, youth or elderly," said Mr. Sohana. Many homeless individuals in New South Wales (NSW) sought accommodation assistance in the financial year 2020-2021 from specialist homelessness services. In 2022, it was reported that nearly half of them did not receive much-needed assistance.

Recent reports have drawn attention to the possible effects of the unmet demand of homelessness services. It warns that housing instability can lead to increased vulnerability for these individuals especially women, children and those with mental health issues. This is where initiatives such as Win Square Finance's donation of a portion of its revenues to the Win Square Foundation can make a difference in reducing homelessness.

The initiative of Win Square Finance is expected to take effect from the second half of 2023. Mr. Sohana is quite optimistic that the donated funds will help many less fortunate individuals living on the streets of Australia in finding a home and fulfilling their basic needs.

About Win Square Finance

Accredited with over 50 lenders, Win Square Finance has helped hundreds of people get approved for mortgages. It also guides its clients on various mortgage reduction strategies and ways to achieve low-interest payments.

Media Contact:

Company Name: Win Square Finance

Contact Person: Ruban Sohana

City: Sydney

State: New South Wales

Country: Australia

Website: https://www.winsqfin.com.au/

Email: ruban@winsqfin.com.au

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/155950
-- LGMD is a Rare Form of Muscular Dystrophy with No Approved Therapy --

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), a wholly owned and independently operated subsidiary of Bayer AG, announced today that the European Commission (EC) has granted orphan drug designation for AB-1003 (also known as LION-101)* for the treatment of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD). AB-1003 is a novel investigational recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) based gene therapy currently being developed as a one-time intravenous (IV) infusion for the treatment of patients with LGMD type 2I/R9 (LGMD2I/R9), a disease subtype affecting 4.5 people per million worldwide, including more than 5,000 people in the EU and US. The EC decision, dated February 15, 2023, follows a positive opinion from the Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products (COMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and was received through AskBio's EU-based subsidiary BrainVectis.





AB-1003 is being investigated in the US in a Phase 1/2 multicenter study that will evaluate the safety, tolerability and efficacy of a single IV infusion of gene therapy in adult subjects with genotypically confirmed LGMD2I/R9.

"The EC orphan drug designation for AB-1003 is an important recognition of the unmet medical need in LGMD, which has no approved therapy," said Sheila Mikhail, Co-Founder & CEO, AskBio. "The burden of this rare form of muscular dystrophy on patients and their families is significant, and this decision supports our efforts to potentially bring a new therapeutic option to people in the EU living with the 2I/R9 type of this devastating disease."

The EC grants orphan drug designation for medicinal products intended to treat a life-threatening or chronically debilitating disease that affects no more than five people in 10,000 in the EU, provided there is no other satisfactory treatment option or the medicine can be of significant benefit to those affected by a specific condition. This designation will provide special incentives in the EU, including eligibility for protocol assistance and possible exemptions or reductions in certain regulatory fees. In addition, if the medicine is approved for marketing, this designation will provide 10 years of marketing exclusivity.

About Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD) and Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2I/R9 (LGMD2I/R9)

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) is a term for a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and wasting of the muscles in the arms and legs.1 The muscles most affected are those closest to the body (proximal muscles), specifically the muscles of the shoulders, upper arms, pelvic area and thighs.1 The severity, age of onset, and features of LGMD vary among the many subtypes of the condition and are often inconsistent, even within the same family.1 Signs and symptoms may first appear at any age and generally worsen with time, although in some cases they remain mild.1

Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2I/R9 (LGMD2I/R9) is a form of LGMD and is caused by mutations in the FKRP gene.2 In LGMD2I/R9, signs and symptoms often develop in late childhood and may include difficulty running and walking.2 The symptoms gradually worsen over time toward significant disability, and affected people generally rely on a wheelchair for mobility approximately 23-26 years after onset.2 Currently, there is no treatment that modifies the disease progression, and management is based on the signs and symptoms present in each individual.2 Visit the National Institutes of Health Medline Plus website to learn more about LGMD and LGMD2I/R9.

About AskBio

Asklepios BioPharmaceutical, Inc. (AskBio), a wholly owned and independently operated subsidiary of Bayer AG,?is a fully integrated gene therapy company dedicated to developing life-saving medicines and changing lives. The company maintains a portfolio of clinical programs across a range of neuromuscular, central nervous system, cardiovascular and metabolic disease indications with a clinical-stage pipeline that includes therapeutics for Pompe disease, Parkinson's disease, and congestive heart failure. AskBio's gene therapy platform includes Pro10, an industry-leading proprietary cell line manufacturing process, and an extensive capsid and promoter library. With global headquarters in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, and European headquarters in Edinburgh, Scotland, the company has generated hundreds of proprietary capsids and promoters, several of which have entered clinical testing. An early innovator in the gene therapy field, with over 800 employees in five countries, the company holds more than 750 patents in areas such as AAV production and chimeric and self-complementary capsids. Learn more at?www.askbio.com?or follow us on?LinkedIn.

About Bayer

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. Its products and services are designed to help people and the planet thrive by supporting efforts to master the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. Bayer is committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with its businesses. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. The Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability, and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2021, the Group employed around 100,000 people and had sales of 44.1 billion euros. R&D expenses before special items amounted to 5.3 billion euros. For more information, visit www.bayer.com.

AskBio Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements." Any statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Words such as "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "will," "intends," "potential," "possible" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding AskBio's pipeline of development candidates, manufacturing technology and process. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond AskBio's control. Known risks include, among others, AskBio may not be able to execute on its business plans and goals, including meeting its expected or planned regulatory milestones and timelines, its reliance on third-parties, clinical development plans, manufacturing processes and plans, and bringing its product candidates to market due to a variety of reasons, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, possible limitations of company financial and other resources, manufacturing limitations that may not be anticipated or resolved in a timely manner, potential disagreements or other issues with our third-party collaborators and partners, and regulatory, court or agency feedback or decisions, such as feedback and decisions from the United States Food and Drug Administration or the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Any of the foregoing risks could materially and adversely affect AskBio's business and results of operations. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. AskBio does not undertake any obligation to publicly update its forward-looking statements based on events or circumstances after the date hereof.

* European Commission orphan drug designation is for "adeno-associated viral vector serotype 9 expressing fukutin related protein."

1. National Institutes of Health - Medline Plus: Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy - Description. Accessed February 17, 2021. Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy: MedlinePlus Genetics

2. National Institutes of Health - National Center of Advancing Translational Sciences: Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2I - Summary. Accessed February 17, 2021. Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2I | Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) - an NCATS Program (nih.gov)

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Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Sayward Capital Corp. (TSXV: SAWC.P) ("Sayward" or the "Company"), a capital pool company as defined under TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV" or the "Exchange") policies, is pleased to announce it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent dated February 24, 2023 (the "LOI") with Midex Resources Ltd. ("Midex"), a corporation organized under the laws of Ontario, in respect of a proposed business combination that would result in the reverse take-over of Sayward by Midex and its shareholders to form the resulting issuer (the "Resulting Issuer") which will continue on the business of Midex (the "Proposed Transaction"). Sayward anticipates that the Proposed Transaction will constitute its Qualifying Transaction pursuant to Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the Exchange ("Policy 2.4"), as such term is defined in the policies of the Exchange.

Terms of the Proposed Transaction

The material terms and conditions outlined in the LOI are non-binding on the parties and the LOI is, among other things, conditional on the execution of a definitive merger, amalgamation, share exchange agreement or other similar form of transaction agreement (the "Definitive Agreement") to be negotiated between the parties. There is no assurance that a Definitive Agreement will be successfully negotiated or entered into.

The LOI was negotiated at arm's length. The terms and conditions outlined in the LOI are expected to be superseded by the Definitive Agreement. The Company currently has 8,000,000 issued and outstanding common shares (the "Sayward Shares"). It is anticipated that 800,000 additional Sayward Shares are reserved for issuance under stock options and will be exercised in connection with the Proposed Transaction. Additionally, 500,000 Sayward Shares are reserved for issuance under agent's warrants.

There are currently 73,668,960 common shares of Midex ("Midex Shares") issued and outstanding and other than 8,189,453 warrants and options to purchase Midex Shares equal up to 10% of the Midex Shares, there will be no securities convertible into or exchangeable for, or other rights to acquire, Midex Shares.

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including, but not limited to, receipt of applicable regulatory and stock exchange approvals, including the approval of the Exchange for the Proposed Transaction, completion of satisfactory due diligence and the execution of the Definitive Agreement and related transaction documents.

Finder's Fee

In connection with the Proposed Transaction, the Company has entered into a finder's fee agreement whereby 1000406106 Ontario Corp. will be paid a finder's fee in the amount of $87,500 ("Finder's Fee") on closing of the Proposed Transaction, in connection with introducing Sayward to Midex. The Finder's Fee is subject to TSXV acceptance in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Midex shall have the option, at its sole discretion, to pay all or part of the Finder's Fee in such number of common shares of the Resulting Issuer, which is the result of dividing all or part of such fee by $0.10.

Operations of the Resulting Issuer

It is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will continue the business of Midex under a new name that is expected to be "Midex Resources Ltd.", or such other name as the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer shall determine and as may be approved by the TSXV and any other relevant regulatory authorities (the "Name Change").

It is intended that the Resulting Issuer will be listed on the TSXV as a Tier 2 Mining Issuer, subject to TSXV approval.

Proposed Directors and Officers

It is anticipated that all of the current directors and officers of Sayward will resign from their respective positions with Sayward in connection with the closing of the Proposed Transaction. It is anticipated that upon closing of the Proposed Transaction, the board and management of the Resulting Issuer shall consist of David Jamieson, Glenn Baldwin, John Cullen, Andres Tinajero, Terry Harbort, and Glenn Rochon. Management is expected to include David Jamieson as Chief Executive Officer, Doug Harris as Chief Financial Officer, Scott Young as Vice President Corporate Development, and Tammy Lehtinen as Vice President Environmental, Social and Governance. The following are brief descriptions of the currently proposed directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer:

David Jamieson - Director, President and CEO

David Jamieson, co-founder of Midex, has over 35 years' experience providing geological expertise to the Canadian mineral exploration industry. David's early career experience includes 10 years with Agnico Eagle and related companies, with a focus on the Abitibi Greenstone Belt in Ontario and Quebec where he co-discovered the Victoria Creek lode gold deposit. Wide ranging exploration experience in many of the greenstone belts of N.W. Ontario, discovering a significant gold zone at Sandy Lake, and guiding early underground exploration of the Island Gold deposit.

Glenn Baldwin - Director

Glenn Baldwin is a global senior mining executive with over 30 years in the mining industry. He initially moved to South Africa with Anglo American, held executive positions with Ivanhoe Nickel and Platinum and Gold Fields, and later in Saudi Arabia with Ma'aden. Glenn has also garnered significant experience in international business and finance during his time as an investment banker and has led companies through transformative acquisitions and divestments. Glenn is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Singapore-based Mongold, which operates an underground mine and several exploration projects in Mongolia. Glenn is a mining engineer and has held numerous Board directorships with both private and public companies over the past 15 years.

John Cullen - Chairman

John Cullen has 30+ years experience in public company financing, corporate/capital structuring and management, including 20+ years corporate experience in Guyana petroleum exploration. He has founded several public international resource companies following 15 years in the Canadian investment industry.

Terry Harbort - Director

Terry Harbort holds a Ph.D In Structural Geology and Tectonics. He was a senior member of the discovery team of AngloGold's Ashanti's La Colosa and Gramalote deposits and the current CEO of Talisker Resources Ltd., Director, Millennial Precious Metals Corp. and Sable Resources Ltd. and former Chief Geoscientist, Barkerville Gold Mines Ltd.

Doug Harris - CFO

Doug Harris is a chartered accountant and a chartered business valuator with over 20 years of experience in the financial services sector. Doug has worked in accounting, corporate finance, private equity and mergers and acquisitions. He has participated in over $2 billion of transactions. Doug holds an MBA (Accounting) from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and a BSc. from the University of Guelph.

Tammy Lehtinen - Vice President Environmental, Social and Governance

Tammy Lehtinen has over a decade of diverse industry experience, centered in strategic corporate social responsibility planning, and Indigenous and government relations. Ms. Lehtinen's experience in the junior mining space as well as with mid-tier producers has provided invaluable experience and knowledge, and a holistic understanding of the critical metrics required to be successful in the mining industry. Ms. Lehtinen is a respected stakeholder relations advisor, who is trusted to lead risk assessments, prevention process and provide crisis resolution guidance. She has guided corporations in developing Corporate Social Responsibility policies and industry best practices to enhance internal and external company relations.

Glenn Rochon - Director

Glenn Rochon has over 40 years experience in the resource industry, starting his career as a fixed wing and helicopter pilot working closely with numerous exploration companies planning logistics including drill/geological crew moves and exploration camp logistics. He has founded several public international resource companies.

Andres Tinajero - Director

Andres Tinajero holds an MBA and is a Member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants, the Certified Practicing Accountants of Australia and a Certified member of the Institute of Corporate Directors. He has served as CFO and Vice President of Finance of several medium sized public companies across Canada.

Scott Young - Vice President Corporate Development

Scott Young has over 20 years in corporate development, fund raising strategy and tactical planning. He has successfully helped fund companies in a number of diverse industries including natural resources (mining and oil and gas), biotech, medtech and the cannabis industries. He has a comprehensive institutional financing network that spans North and South America, Europe and Asia. He has delivered investment results for various private or public entities.

Principals or Insiders of the Resulting Issuer

If any further Principals or Insiders (as those terms are defined in TSXV policies) are proposed in connection with the Resulting Issuer, such other persons will be disclosed in the subsequent press release of the Company.

Certain common shares of the Resulting Issuer to be issued pursuant to the Proposed Transaction are expected to be subject to restrictions on resale or escrow under the policies of the TSXV, including the securities to be issued to Principals, which will be subject to the escrow requirements of the Exchange.

Selected Financial Information

The following table sets forth certain select annual and interim unaudited financial information of Midex for the periods indicated.

As of December

31, 2022

(Audited) As of December

31, 2021

(Audited) As of December

31, 2020

(Audited) Total assets $2,596,987 $2,306,316 $1,608,868 Total liabilities $257,570 $297,535 $97,826 Shareholders' equity $2,339,417 $2,008,781 $1,511,042 Revenues NIL NIL NIL Net Profits / Losses ($1,416,586) ($1,362,161) ($641,008)

Sponsorship of the Proposed Transaction

The Company intends to make an application for exemption from the sponsorship requirements of the TSXV in connection with the Proposed Transaction; however, there is no assurance that the TSXV will exempt the Company from all or part of applicable sponsorship requirements.

Trading Halt

In accordance with the policies of the TSXV, trading in the Sayward Shares has been halted and is not expected to resume trading until completion of the Proposed Transaction or until the TSXV receives the requisite documentation to resume trading.

Proposed Qualifying Transaction

As the Proposed Transaction is not a "Non-Arm's Length Qualifying Transaction" (within the meaning of Policy 2.4 of the Exchange), the Proposed Transaction does not require approval of the shareholders of Sayward (the "Sayward Shareholders"). However, the Name Change, the Resulting Issuer director appointments, and any such other matters as may reasonably be agreed upon by Midex and the Company, including any consolidations, continuances or amendments to the constating documents of the Company to be held in connection with the Proposed Transaction, will require the approval of Sayward Shareholders at an annual and special meeting of Sayward Shareholders (the "Sayward Meeting"), that is expected to be held prior to the completion of the Proposed Transaction. Further details with respect to the matters to be approved at the Sayward Meeting will be contained in the information circular prepared in connection with Sayward Meeting and available for review on Sayward's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

Additional Information

Additional information concerning the Proposed Transaction and any connected transactions of the Company, Midex and the Resulting Issuer, will be provided in subsequent news releases and in the Company's management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, to be filed in connection with the Proposed Transaction, which will be available under Sayward's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

All information contained in this press release with respect to the Company and Midex was supplied by or from the respective party for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, Exchange acceptance and if applicable pursuant to Exchange requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval, the completion of a Definitive Agreement and closing conditions customary to transactions of this nature. Where applicable, the Proposed Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

The Proposed Transaction will not constitute a "Non-Arm's Length Qualifying Transaction" (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV). Accordingly, it is not anticipated that the Proposed Transaction will be subject to the approval of the Midex shareholders.

About Sayward

Sayward is incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) and is a capital pool company within the meaning of the policies of the Exchange. Sayward has not commenced operations and has no assets other than cash. Sayward's principal business is the identification and evaluation of assets or businesses with a view to completing a "Qualifying Transaction" under Policy 2.4.

About Midex

Midex is a Canadian junior exploration company that currently holds a 100% interest in Ontario mining claims totaling over 50,000 ha in the Favourable Lake Greenstone Belt. Over 28,000 ha of this land package is adjacent to or on strike with the world class Frontier Lithium PAK Project, in potentially the largest known spodumene pegmatite belt in Ontario. Midex also holds 100% interest in another 9,000 ha of highly prospective lithium claims in the Allison Lake, Onion Lake and Case Lake areas of Ontario. Midex's large property portfolio hosts past producing gold and silver assets with numerous occurrences of other critical minerals, including copper, molybdenum, and zinc.

For more information on Midex, visit https://midexresources.com.

Further Information

Sayward Capital Corp.

Luke Caplette, Director

Email: lukecaplette@hotmail.com

Phone: 403-831-6968

Midex Resources Ltd.

David Jamieson, President and CEO

Email: djamieson@midexresources.com

Scott Young, V.P. Corporate Development

Email: syoung@midexresources.com

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends" "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this press release contains forward looking statements concerning the Proposed Transaction, the Finder's Fee, the Sayward Meeting, the expected composition of the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer, the completion and timing of the application to the TSXV in respect of the Proposed Transaction, the proposed structure by which the Proposed Transaction is to be completed, the ability of the Company and Midex to meet the conditions of the Proposed Transaction in the required timeframes, obtaining the necessary exemptions and approvals from the TSXV or other regulatory bodies, including the business, name and function of the Resulting Issuer and certain financial information and forecasts. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Company and Midex, including expectations and assumptions concerning the Company, Midex, the Resulting Issuer, the Proposed Transaction, the negotiation of the Definitive Agreement on satisfactory terms, the timely receipt of all required shareholder, court and regulatory approvals (as applicable), including the acceptance of the TSXV, the satisfaction of other closing conditions in accordance with the terms of the Definitive Agreement, as well as other risks and uncertainties.

The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any 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. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by securities law.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

Neither TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156279
The Q-submission phase was initiated on May 2, 2022 with the FDA.

The Q-submission phase aims at clarifying and implementing the FDA's expectations on key topics including pivotal study protocols.

Further to the Q-submission phase completion, Median's iBiopsy LCS CADe/CADx SaMD pivotal study protocols are now finalized and ready for study execution.

Median Technologies aims at starting the execution of the iBiopsy LCS CADe/CADx SaMD pivotal studies by the end of Q2, 2023 and obtaining 510(k) clearance in the first half of 2024.

Regulatory News:

Median Technologies (ALMDT) (Paris:ALMDT) announces today that the Company has received feedback from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the Q-submission phase initiated on May 2, 2022 for its iBiopsy Lung Cancer Screening (LCS) AI/ML tech-based CADe/CADx1 Software as Medical Device (SaMD) and announces completion of this phase.

The Q-submission phase is a major regulatory step which allows regular and in-depth discussions with the FDA on key topics such as pivotal study protocols. Further to this Q-submission phase, Median's SaMD is better tailored to fit the FDA's expectations and market needs.

As next steps, Median Technologies, having finalized its pivotal study protocols, is now getting ready for pivotal study execution by the end of Q2 2023, as planned, once all imaging and clinical data collection and preparation as well as reader training are completed. Likewise, Median still targets obtaining the FDA 510(k) clearance for its iBiopsy LCS CADe/CADx SaMD in the first half of 2024, subject to FDA review requirements.

"The Q-submission phase allowed us to have frequent and fruitful interactions with the Agency in order to better tailor our medical device software to the US market", Fredrik Brag, CEO and Founder of Median Technologies said. "But more than that, we had the opportunity to present to the FDA the vision we have for our product, the cutting edge performance we aim for, and our ambition to change the paradigm in the early diagnosis of lung cancer patients", Brag added.

About iBiopsy: iBiopsy is based on the most advanced technologies in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science (DS), benefiting from Median's expertise in medical image processing. iBiopsy targets the development of AI/ML tech-based Software of Medical Devices (SaMD), to be used in several indications for which there are unmet needs regarding early diagnosis, prognosis and treatment selection in the context of precision medicine. iBiopsy currently focuses on Lung Cancer, Liver Cancer (HCC) and Liver Disease (NAFLD/NASH).

Forward-looking statements: This press release contains express or implied information and statements that may be considered forward-looking information and statements about Median Technologies. They are not historical facts. Such information and statements include financial projections that are based on certain assumptions and assessments made by Median Technologies' management in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current economic and industry conditions, expected future developments and other factors it deems relevant. These forward-looking statements include statements that generally use conditional verbs and contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "plans" or "estimates" and variations and conjugations thereof and words of similar import. Although Median Technologies' management believes that the forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, Median Technologies' shareholders and other investors are cautioned that the realization of these expectations is inherently subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Median Technologies. These risks could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed, implied or projected in the forward-looking statements. This press release contains only summary information and should be read in conjunction with the public information filed by Median Technologies with the AMF and that are available on Median Technologies' website. Other than as required by applicable law, Median Technologies is issuing this press release as of the date hereof and does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements.

About Median Technologies:Median Technologies provides innovative imaging solutions and services to advance healthcare for everyone. We harness the power of medical images by using the most advanced Artificial Intelligence technologies, to increase the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment of many cancers and other metabolic diseases at their earliest stages and provide insights into novel therapies for patients. Our iCRO solutions for medical image analysis and management in oncology trials and iBiopsy, our AI-powered software as medical device help biopharmaceutical companies and clinicians to bring new treatments and diagnose patients earlier and more accurately. This is how we are helping to create a healthier world.

Founded in 2002, based in Sophia-Antipolis, France, with a subsidiary in the US and another one in Shanghai, Median has received the label "Innovative company" by the BPI and is listed on Euronext Growth market (Paris). FR0011049824- ticker: ALMDT. Median is eligible for the French SME equity savings plan scheme (PEA-PME). For more information: www.mediantechnologies.com

1 A radiological CADe device is "intended to identify, mark, highlight or otherwise direct attention to portions of an image that may reveal abnormalities during interpretation of images by the clinician." A CADx device is "intended to provide information beyond identifying abnormalities, such as an assessment of disease." Source: FDA

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005645/en/

Contacts:

Median Technologies

Emmanuelle Leygues

Head of Corporate Marketing Financial Communications

+33 6 10 93 58 88

emmanuelle.leygues@mediantechnologies.com

Press ALIZE RP

Caroline Carmagnol

+33 6 64 18 99 59

median@alizerp.com

Investors ACTIFIN

Ghislaine Gasparetto

+33 6 21 10 49 24

ggasparetto@actifin.fr
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Fortitude Gold (OTCQB:FTCO) (the "Company") today announced the timing of its year-end 2022 earnings conference call scheduled for Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Fortitude Gold is a gold producer, developer, and explorer with operations in Nevada, U.S.A. offering investors exposure to both gold production and dividend yield.

Conference Call

Fortitude Gold's CEO, Mr. Jason Reid, will host the conference call Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Topics of discussion will include year-end 2022 annual results and an update on current operations. The conference call will be recorded and posted to the Company's website.

Q&A

Following Mr. Reid's opening remarks, the Company will host a question and answer (Q&A) session.

Date: Wednesday, March 1, 2023

Time: 11:00 AM Eastern (9:00 AM Mountain)

There are two ways to join the conference call:

To join the conference via webcast, please click on the following link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2640/47761.

To join the call via telephone please use one of the following dial-in details:

Toll Free: 888-506-0062

International: 973-528-0011

Participant Access Code: 568009

Please connect to the conference call at least 10 minutes prior to the start time using one of the connection options listed above.

About Fortitude Gold Corp.:

Fortitude Gold is a U.S. based gold producer targeting projects with low operating costs, high margins, and strong returns on capital. The Company's strategy is to grow organically, remain debt-free and distribute substantial dividends. The Company's Nevada Mining Unit consists of five high-grade gold properties located in the Walker Lane Mineral Belt and a sixth high-grade gold property in west central Nevada. The Isabella Pearl gold mine, located on the Isabella Pearl mineralized trend, is currently in production. Nevada, U.S.A. is among the world's premier mining friendly jurisdictions.

Cautionary Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. If you are risk-averse you should NOT buy shares in Fortitude Gold Corp. The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical 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. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "target", "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the statements regarding the Company's strategy, future plans for production, future expenses and costs, future liquidity and capital resources, and estimates of mineralized material are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to the Company on the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements.

Forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release. In particular, the scope, duration, and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mining operations, Company employees, and supply chains as well as the scope, duration and impact of government action aimed at mitigating the pandemic may cause future actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements. Also, there can be no assurance that production will continue at any specific rate.

Contact:

Greg Patterson

719-717-9825

greg.patterson@fortitudegold.com

www.Fortitudegold.com

SOURCE: Fortitude Gold Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/740926/Fortitude-Gold-Announces-Year-End-2022-Conference-Call
Dubai, United Arab Emirates--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) -ZEX PR WIRE is delighted to announce that they are now the official PR Partner at The 10th Edition of Blockchain Life 2023 organized by Listing Help and Jets Capital. The 10th Global Forum on blockchain, cryptocurrencies and mining - Blockchain Life 2023 takes place on February 27-28 in Dubai.

The event is attended by key industry players, government representatives, heads of international companies and funds, investors, promising startups teams and beginners. It's noteworthy that the Forum is a meeting point for a premium crypto audience including world Crypto Whales.





Figure 1: ZEX PR WIRE Join Forces with Blockchain Life to be the Official PR Partner for the 10th Edition of Blockchain Life 2023 in Dubai





What to expect?

 Whales of the crypto industry at one place

 Top speakers with world-changing insights and analytics

 Global expo of the latest Web 3.0 technologies

 Breakthrough smart networking app

 The legendary AfterParty on the luxury yacht trip

Top speakers:

 Yat Siu - Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Animoca Brands, Founder and CEO of Outblaze

 Sergei Khitrov - Founder of Listing.Help and Jets.Capital

 Ben Zhou - Co-founder and CEO of Bybit

 Dr. Marwan Alzarouni - CEO of Dubai Blockchain Center

 Carl Runefelt - Crypto Entrepreneur, Founder Of CryptoJobs.com

 Chris MMCrypto - Cryptocurrency Expert, Co-Founder of MMCrypto

 Gabriel Abed - Ambassador of Barbados to the UAE

 Dr. Mohamed Al Hemairy - Director of Technology Transfer Office at University of Sharjah, Blockchain & Crypto Advisor

 Manan Shah - Founder and CEO of Avalance Global Solutions and CyBirb

 Gracy Chen - Managing Director of Bitget

To help visitors find who they need among 4000 participants, Blockchain Life updated its own smart app - Networking 2.0.

The culmination of the forum is the Legendary AfterParty, which takes place on the luxury yacht LOTUS - VIP attendees and speakers will spend 4 hours networking.

For more information, visit this website: https://blockchain-life.com/asia/en/tickets-row

About Blockchain Life

Blockchain Life 2023 is the 10th Global Forum on blockchain, cryptocurrencies and mining taking place on February 27-28 in Dubai. The event is attended by key industry players, government representatives, heads of international companies, funds, investors, promising startups teams and beginners. The Forum is a meeting point for a premium crypto audience including world Crypto Whales.

About ZEX PR WIRE

ZEX PR WIRE is an end-to-end solution to produce, optimize and target content -- and then distribute and measure results. Combining the world's most extensive multi-channel content distribution and optimization network and comprehensive workflow tools and platform, ZEX PR serves thousands of clients from offices in America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions.

ZEX PR WIRE has catered to over 2700+ clients, syndicating over 6000+ press releases to over 500+ premium global and local news outlets (Digitally). ZEX PR WIRE not only caters to the traditional market but also works closely work (directly or indirectly) with various top blockchain news/media houses such as Cointelegraph, Bitcoin.com, NewsBTC, Coinspeaker, Etrendy Stock, Newsaffinity, City Telegraph, TheTechly, NewsAlarms, Techbullion, U.Today...etc

Media and Partnership Contact:

Name: Prerna Arora (Head of Communications & Partnerships)

Email: prerna@zexprwire.com

For Any Other Information - info@zexprwire.com , saurabh@zexprwire.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156236
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of a new interview with Graphano Energy 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.

Graphano (TSXV:GEL) unearths significant graphite grades at the Standard Mine Project

Graphano Energy (GEL) reported that all assay results from the 2022 winter drilling program at the Standard Mine Project have been received. The program intersected very significant graphite mineralization over more than a 500-metre length. The mineralized zones range in thickness from 3 to 20.5 metres, with an average thickness of 9.3 metres. The initial exploration drilling program at the Standard Mine Project resulted in the highest graphite mineralized intersections that the company has reported to date. CEO Louisa Moreno sat down with Sabrina Cuthbert to discuss the results.

For the full interview with Louisa Moreno and to learn about Graphano Energy, click here.

Interviews for The Power Play by The Market Herald are released daily. To learn more about the companies featured in The Power Play or to explore our other interviews visit? The Power Play by The Market Herald.

About The Market Herald

The Market Herald Canada is the leading source of authoritative breaking stock market news for self-directed investors. Our team of Canadian markets reporters, editors and technologists covers the entire listed company universe in Canada. We cover over 3,985 businesses, their people, their investors, and their customers. We write the stories that move the Canadian capital markets.

DISCLAIMER: Report Card Canada Media Ltd. ("Report Card") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market Herald Limited, an Australian company ("Market Herald"). Report Card is not an advisory service, and does not offer, buy, sell, or provide any other rating, analysis or opinion on the securities we discuss. We are retained and compensated by the companies that we provide information on to assist them with making information available to the public. All information available on themarketherald.ca and/or this press release should be considered as commercial advertisement and not an endorsement, offer or recommendation to buy or sell securities. Report Card is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority in any province or territory of Canada, will not be performing any registerable activity as defined by the applicable regulatory bodies and do not provide nor claim to provide investment advice or recommendations to any visitor of this site or readers of any content on or originating from themarketherald.ca. Market Herald and/or its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees may from time to time acquire, hold or sell securities and/or commodities and/or commodity futures contracts in certain underlying companies mentioned in this site and which may also be clients of Market Herald's affiliates. In such instances, Market Herald and/or its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees will use all reasonable efforts to avoid engaging in activities that would lead to conflicts of interest and Market Herald and/or its affiliates will use all reasonable efforts to comply with conflicts of interest disclosures and regulations to minimize any conflict. All the information on this document and/or the website - themarketherald.ca - is published in good faith and for general information purpose only. Report Card does not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of this information. Any action you take upon the information you find on this document and/or website (themarketherald.ca) is strictly at your own risk. Report Card will not be liable for any losses and/or damages in connection with the use of our website. From our website, you can visit other websites by following hyperlinks to such external sites. While we strive to provide only quality links to useful and ethical websites, we have no control over the content and nature of these sites. These links to other websites do not imply a recommendation for all the content found on these sites. Site owners and content may change without notice and may occur before we have the opportunity to remove a link which may have gone 'bad'. Please be also aware that when you leave our website, other sites may have different privacy policies and terms which are beyond our control. Please be sure to check the Privacy Policies of these sites as well as their "Terms of Service" before engaging in any business or uploading any information.

CONTACT:

The Market Herald

marketing@themarketherald.ca

themarketherald.ca

SOURCE:?The Market Herald

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/740991/The-Power-Play-by-The-Market-Herald-Releases-a-New-Interview-with-Graphano-Energy-Discussing-Their-Latest-News
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - McFarlane Lake Mining Limited (NEO: MLM) (OTCQB: MLMLF) ("McFarlane" or the "Company"), a Canadian mineral exploration and development company, is announcing today that it will conduct its in-person 2023 Annual General and Special Meeting ("AGM") at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday, March 6, 2023, at Wildeboer Dellelce Place, 365 Bay Street, Suite 800, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 2V1.

Shareholders of record as of January 13, 2023, will be able to vote their shares on the proposals to be considered at the AGM either at the meeting or by proxy in advance of the meeting. Proxies must be received by 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time on March 2, 2023.

As well as conducting the business of the AGM, management will provide a presentation regarding recent progress at its High Lake and West Hawk Lake properties and offer the opportunity for investors to ask questions.

The Company recently announced several promising drilling results at its High Lake property. Two holes, MLHL-22-06 and MLM-22-17, were the top 4 and the top 3 intersections on Junior Mining Hub for the week of January 13, 2023, and the week of February 10, 2023, respectively.

Mark Trevisiol, Chairman and CEO of McFarlane, said, "We are excited to be holding our first Annual General Meeting as a company. We have made significant progress in the past year and are thrilled to be able to share details regarding our recent developments and the potential that lies ahead. We look forward to engaging with our shareholders at the AGM and hearing their thoughts."

About McFarlane Lake Mining Limited

McFarlane is a mineral exploration company focused on the exploration and development of the High Lake mineral property located immediately east of the Ontario-Manitoba border and the West Hawk Lake mineral property located immediately west of the Ontario-Manitoba border. In addition, McFarlane holds the McMillan and Mongowin mineral property located 70 km east of Sudbury and owns the Michaud/Munro mineral property 115 km east of Timmins. McFarlane is a "reporting issuer" under applicable securities legislation in the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta.

Additional information on McFarlane can be found by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at Sedar.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release, including without limitation; anticipated results of geophysical surveys or drilling programs, estimated timing, geological interpretations and potential mineral recovery processes. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of McFarlane to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements are described under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Filing Statement dated as of January 14, 2022 which is available for view on SEDAR at Sedar.com . Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this press release and McFarlane disclaims, other than as required by law, any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, results, future events, circumstances, or if management's estimates or opinions should change, or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

McFarlane's operations could be significantly adversely affected by the effects of a widespread global outbreak of a contagious disease, including the recent outbreak of illness caused by COVID-19. It is not possible to accurately predict the impact COVID-19 will have on operations and the ability of others to meet their obligations, including uncertainties relating to the ultimate geographic spread of the virus, the severity of the disease, the duration of the outbreak, and the length of travel and quarantine restrictions imposed by governments of affected countries. In addition, a significant outbreak of contagious diseases in the human population could result in a widespread health crisis that could adversely affect the economies and financial markets of many countries, resulting in an economic downturn that could further affect operations and the ability to finance its operations.

Further Information

For further information regarding this press release, please contact:

Roger Emdin, Chief Operating Officer

McFarlane Lake Mining Limited

(705) 562-8520

remdin@mcfarlanelakemining.com

Craig MacPhail

NATIONAL

(416) 525 5709

cmacphail@national.ca

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156296
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / New Acre Project



Elizabeth Shirt, President, Globe Series

Originally published on NewAcre.org



Elizabeth Shirt is the President of GLOBE Series, which brings together innovators and change makers who are accelerating the green economy. With experience in sustainability, innovation, energy and clean technology, Elizabeth has spent her career working with industry, innovators, investors, governments and environmental organizations in pursuit of solutions that will lead to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Governments, investors and corporate leaders have embraced nature-based solutions as a critical component to meeting carbon targets and achieving net zero. And there's a good reason why.

"Nature-based solutions make good business and economic sense," says Elizabeth. "They encourage corporations to take into account how they are impacting the land and what that means for finite resources. That's going to allow us to have more profitable businesses in the long term."

This is one of the key undercurrents of GLOBE Series events, which bring together and empower leaders and innovators from business, government and civil society to share knowledge and find solutions for achieving a more sustainable, prosperous and socially just future.

Today, the discussion among market players is increasingly focused on green and blue infrastructure, achieving net zero and the role of investments in accelerating the clean economy.

The key, says Elizabeth, is understanding that achieving a more sustainable future requires a multi-pronged approach that includes not just reducing emissions, but also leveraging nature-based solutions to capture and store carbon.

"We cannot lose sight of sustainability priorities that we need to advance in tandem with achieving net zero," she says. "It's not net zero in isolation. It's not biodiversity in isolation. It's not nature conservation or adaptation to climate change in isolation. All of these issues and opportunities are intrinsically linked."

Nature-based solutions can be incorporated into net zero strategies, such as creating and using natural carbon sinks, like wetlands, to sequester carbon. These solutions are particularly important to Canadian sustainability efforts given that the country's economy has traditionally relied on natural resource extraction, agriculture and forestry, says Elizabeth. These sectors have incredible potential to directly harness nature to achieve overlapping sustainability goals.

"To me, that's one of the cool things about nature. Nature is a key piece of the puzzle to finding a solution if we can find ways to work with it and harness that power," says Elizabeth.

Businesses are also increasingly taking notice of how investing in nature-based solutions can be good for their bottom line. Ultimately, nature-based solutions create more long-term sustainable business opportunities that are in line with current trends in global markets. They also offer room for business and corporations to show leadership and innovation.

One challenge that many companies and investors face, Elizabeth notes, is fully understanding how to measure the environmental and economic opportunities offered by nature-based solutions. Business leaders want to be matched with the right nature-based programs that can help meet their specific needs. But they don't necessarily know how to access those solutions.

"How can they know if the companies or the solutions that they're investing in represent the right net-zero opportunities?" she says. "You need to know what the metrics are. What reporting is required to really be clear on the net-zero opportunity?"

Policy outcomes from international forums like the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) are critical to the investment landscape, says Elizabeth. The TNFD has released a voluntary framework that provides businesses with better information to incorporate nature-related risks and opportunities into their strategic planning, risk management and asset allocation decisions. The goal is to support an economic shift to nature-positive outcomes, while providing investors certainty around how to value nature-based opportunities and risks.

"Those global initiatives represent a number of corporations and governments coming together to agree on a standard approach. This is so key for driving action. Policy outcomes from the TNFD are critical to the investment landscape because investors are looking for certainty and to mitigate their risk," says Elizabeth.

"We saw the same thing from the Task Force for Climate-Related Financial Disclosure. It set the global precedent. That trickles down to what corporations are doing in terms of their reporting to investors who are looking to say, 'Yes, this is a net-zero opportunity.'"

Even when the metrics and data are not clearly available, Elizabeth notes that businesses shouldn't become paralyzed waiting for direction. Developing targets, making the commitment and taking action are key to progress. Businesses can also show leadership by being first movers and setting examples even before formal frameworks or regulations are in place.

"We can't wait for the perfect reporting frameworks or the perfect metrics, because of the need to act today," she says. "Taking action and being part of the conversation is a win-win."

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from New Acre Project on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: New Acre Project

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/new-acre-project

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: New Acre Project

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/741031/Elizabeth-Shirt-on-Market-Solutions-for-the-Environment
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Newpath Resources Inc. (CSE: PATH) (FSE: 0MZ) (OTC PINK: RDYFF) ("Newpath" or the "Company") announces the appointment of a Chief Operating Officer, Douglas Turnbull.

Mr. Turnbull is a consulting geologist with over 35 years of experience in diamond, precious, and base metal exploration. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Geology and is a Qualified Professional Geoscientist recognized by the Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia. Mr. Turnbull is the President of Lakehead Geological Services Inc., a geological consulting company based in Vancouver, Canada. Since 1990, Lakehead Geological Services has provided exploration services to exploration and mining companies, including Black Dragon Gold Corp. Oromin Explorations Ltd., Teranga Gold Corp., Adrian Resources Ltd., Prime Explorations Ltd., Buffalo Gold Ltd., and Madison Enterprises Corp. Mr. Turnbull has been part of exploration teams responsible for the exploration and development of the Eskay Creek Gold Deposit in British Columbia, Canada, the Petaquilla Cu-Au Porphyry Deposit in Panama, the Mt. Kare Gold Deposit in Papua New Guinea, the Salave Gold deposit in Spain and the Sabodala/OJVG Deposits in Senegal. Mr. Turnbull has managed or served on the boards of a number of junior exploration and mining companies with assets ranging from early-stage to advanced projects worldwide. Currently, Mr. Turnbull serves as a director on the boards of Forte Minerals Corp. and Select Sands Corp.

"Adding a person of Doug's caliber is an incredible coup for Newpath. We've been working with Doug in a consultant capacity this past year and I'm grateful for his commitment to us on a full-time basis. It affirms the vision we are creating to create value for shareholders. We've encountered very few projects in our target area to which Doug doesn't have a personal connection. In my view, his ability to pick up the phone and talk to contacts and colleagues that have worked on a mineral property before to get to the heart of the challenges is a serious intangible, and I believe it will materially affect our ability to secure projects that could have material upside," stated CEO, Alex McAulay. The Company is now in a solid position to assess grassroots and later-stage projects with an Ontario focus.

As part of Mr. Turnbull's compensation, commencing May 1st, 2023, he will be awarded $10,000 worth of restricted share units of the Company ("RSUs") per month for each month of employment. The monthly grant will be calculated by the closing price of the Company's common shares trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") on the last day of the preceding month. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company will issue Mr. Turnbull up to a maximum of 1,581,774 RSUs in a given 12-month period. The RSUs will vest as granted and are subject to the Company's 2023 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan.

Additional news

The Company announces that it entered into a consulting agreement dated February 24, 2023 (the "Consulting Agreement") pursuant to which an arm's length consultant will provide consulting services relating to business development matters for the Company for a term of six months. Pursuant to the Consulting Agreement, the Company has also agreed to grant to the consultant 400,000 stock options (each, an "Option") pursuant to its 2023 Omnibus Equity Incentive Plan. Each Option vests immediately and entitles the holder to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of $0.25 per share for a period of 24 months. The Options and the common shares issuable upon the exercise of the Options are subject to a hold period of four months from the date of grant.

About Newpath Resources Inc.

Newpath Resources Inc. is a Canadian exploration company listed on the CSE under symbol PATH. The Company wholly-owns the Northshore Gold Project located in the Schreiber-Hemlo Greenstone Belt and its Orefield Project, which is comprised of 2,579 claim units covering 54,673Ha (approximately 547 square kilometres) west and southwest of Lake Nipigon in Northern Ontario.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

NEWPATH RESOURCES INC.

"Alexander McAulay"

Chief Executive Officer

Email: amcaulay@newpathresource.com

CEO Direct Line: +1 (604) 365-0425

www.newpathresource.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain certain "forward-looking information." Forward-looking information may include financial and other projections, as well as statements regarding future plans, objectives, or economic performance, or the assumption underlying any of the foregoing. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as "aim", "aims to", "may", "would", "could", "will", "will be" "likely", "expected", "anticipated", "proposed", "believe", "intend", "intent", "looking", "plan", "forecast", "project", "estimate", "outlook", "hope". Forward-looking information included in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to Mr. Turnbull's appointment materially affecting the Company's ability to secure projects with material upside; and the number of RSUs issuable and to be awarded to Mr. Turnbull. Forward-looking information is based upon the assumptions and estimates considered reasonable by management of the Company as of the date such statements are made. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Risks that may cause the forward-looking information contained herein to be materially different from the future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein include, but are not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals if required, key personnel and qualified employees continuing their involvement with the Company, the competitive conditions of the industries in which the Company operates, the availability of material projects, capital expenditures and other costs, repayment of debt, financing and additional capital requirements. As a result, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Any statement containing forward-looking information speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156350
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Dias invites you to visit our team at Booth 643 at the PDAC - the World's Premier Mineral Exploration & Mining Convention. Dias is delighted to be back at PDAC, showcasing our patented and unique ground and airborne geophysical survey technologies. With a focus on safety, innovation, accuracy and accountability, we serve the mineral exploration, energy, engineering and environmental markets around the world.

Dias is a leader in the development of new geophysical survey technologies that produce robust, accurate 3D images of the subsurface. Our unique systems generate dense, rich data sets that produce accurate, highly resolved models that help accelerate the project timelines in the mineral exploration, energy, engineering and environmental markets.

"Dias is a fine example of success in technical innovation & provides critical services to the mineral exploration industry internationally."

Our industry leading technologies include DIAS32 (ground 3D DCIP), QMAGT (airborne full tensor gradient mag), QAMT (passive airborne EM), and DIASMT (MT, CSAMT). The recent acquisition of Discovery Int'l Geophysics (Booth 1042) broadens our offering of technologies with SQUID Electromagnetics, semi-airborne HeliSAM, and borehole EM systems.

We look forward to seeing you at PDAC - Booth 643. Schedule a meeting with our team.

Visit www.diasgeo.com for more information or contact:

Vasco Nunes, Sales Manager, Ground

vasco.nunes@diasgeo.com

Lee Davies, Sales Manager, Airborne

lee.davies@diasgeo.com

Jonathan Rudd, President & Director

jonathan@diasgeo.com





To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8666/156344_6880496564171a4f_001full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156344
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / LOVE Pharma Inc. ("LOVE" and or "the Company") (CSE:LUV)(FSE:G1Q0) announced it intends to proceed with a consolidation of its common shares (each, a "Share") on the basis of ten (10) pre-consolidation Shares for one (1) post-consolidation Share (the "Consolidation"). The Board of Directors approved the consolidation on February 21, 2023.

The Company currently has 504,227,623 Shares issued and outstanding. Accordingly, once the Consolidation is effective, the Company will have 50,422,762 Shares issued and outstanding, assuming there are no other changes in the issued capital of the Company.

The Company intends to also proceed with consolidating its outstanding options and warrants on a ratio of ten (10) to one (1), with the result that each consolidated option and warrant will entitle the holder to acquire one Share at an exercise price of ten (10) times its original exercise price.

The Consolidation is being proposed in order to provide the Company with increased flexibility to seek additional financing opportunities and is subject to the approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Company will not change its name as part of the Consolidation.

Zachary Stadnyk, CEO and Director

About Love Pharma Inc.

With a focus on the global sexual Health and Wellness markets, Love Pharma Inc. (CSE: LUV) (FSE: G1Q0) was founded in 2020, with a mission to bring to market innovative products that enhance sexual health and wellness while providing an improved quality of life. Love Pharma holds exclusive licenses to produce market, package, sell, and distribute patent-protected therapeutic and pharmaceutical products throughout Europe, the United Kingdom, and North America.

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations

Telephone: 1 (604) 343-2977

E-mail: investors@love-pharma.com

www.love-pharma.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates", "may" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19, including the impact of COVID-19 on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations, lack of investor demand for Bitcoin and/or Bitcoin futures exchange traded funds, and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.

SOURCE: Love Pharma Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/741062/Love-Pharma-Inc-Announces-Share-Consolidation
Springfield, Oregon--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Silo Wellness Inc. (CSE: SILO) (OTCQB: SILFF) (FSE: 3K7A), announced that it has reached an agreement with an arm's length creditor to convert CAD$149,235.91 of accounts payable ("AP") debt for common shares at a conversion price of $0.011 per share for a total of 13,566,901 shares with the statutory four-month hold. This conversion was made at the 20-day VWAP, which was approved by the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) as price protection and expires on March 20, 2023. This is in addition to the $770,823 of debt load that has been converted to shares this week. The Company will continue to make efforts to restructure debt.

The company also announces that it anticipates the filing of its annual financial statements, management's discussion and analysis and related officer certifications for the financial year ended October 31, 2022 (collectively, the "Annual Filings") will be delayed beyond the required filing deadline under Parts 4 and 5 of National Instrument 51-102 - Continuous Disclosure Obligations and pursuant to National Instrument 52-109 - Certification of Disclosure in Issuer's Annual and Interim Filings, being February 28, 2023 (the "Filing Deadline").

The auditor has commenced the audit process but has determined that it will not be able to complete the audit and file the Annual Filings by the Filing Deadline and this week has requested a two- to three-week extension. The Company intends to work closely with its auditor and expects to file the Annual Filings as soon as possible, and in any event no later than March 28, 2023.

The Company is providing this default announcement in accordance with National Policy 12-203 - Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203"). The Company has made an application to the Ontario Securities Commission, as principal regulator of the Company, for a management cease trade order ("MCTO") under NP 12-203 in respect of the anticipated default regarding the Annual Filings. The Company has proffered to the regulator that the request is timely pursuant to section 7 of the National Policy, as the Company requested relief from the deadline as soon as it was aware of the impending delay. The granting of the MCTO is at the discretion of the Ontario Securities Commission. The issuance of the MCTO generally will not affect the ability of persons who have not been directors, officers or insiders of the Company to trade in their securities. In the event that the MCTO is granted, it will be in effect until the default is remedied.

The Company intends to follow the provisions of the Alternative Information Guidelines set out in NP 12-203, including the issuance of bi-weekly default status reports in the form of news releases, for as long as the Company remains in default. The Company confirms as of the date of this news release that there is no insolvency proceeding against it and there is no other material information concerning the affairs of the Company that has not been generally disclosed.

Contact:

Mike Arnold, CEO

541-900-5871

IR at silo wellness dot com

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156374
LINCOLN, NE / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / A tree planting event was held on February 24 and 25 to honor John Lewis' legacy and add to the flowering forest that is growing in his memory in Atlanta, Georgia. Trees Atlanta, along with other Atlanta-based organizations, hosted the annual community planting event with support from the Arbor Day Foundation and its corporate partners International Paper, UPS, and WestRock.

"We are grateful to have been a part of this event honoring Representative Lewis and are inspired by the passion and commitment of our long-time planting partner, Trees Atlanta," said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Community projects like this help the Arbor Day Foundation bring our mission to life and remind us just how essential trees are to the beauty, health, and prosperity of cities and towns around the world."

The annual planting event was started in 2021 when the first 300 trees were planted in Freedom Park. Each year, community members can sign up to volunteer to help plant flowering trees and shrubs along the John Lewis Freedom Parkway in Atlanta. The native tree species that were planted were specifically chosen to bloom in late winter to celebrate the late Civil Rights leader's birthday and add color along the parkway as a welcome to Spring.

"Hundreds of people from many communities help to plant and nurture the Flowering Forest. This collaborative effort is a beautiful example of Congressman Lewis's belief that committed and determined people make a difference by working together," said Greg Levine, co-executive director and chief program officer of Trees Atlanta. Trees Atlanta is a member organization of the Alliance for Communities Trees through the Arbor Day Foundation.

About the Arbor Day Foundation

Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is the world's largest membership nonprofit organization dedicated to planting trees. With a focus in communities and forests of greatest need, the Foundation - alongside its more than 1 million members, supporters and valued partners - has helped to plant nearly 500 million trees in more than 50 countries. Guided by its mission to inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees, the Arbor Day Foundation is committed to unlocking the power of trees to help solve critical issues facing people and the planet. Learn more about the impact of the Arbor Day Foundation at arborday.org.

About Trees Atlanta

Since 1985, Trees Atlanta has planted and cared for more than 150,000 trees in metro Atlanta. It has grown to become one of Atlanta's most widely recognized and supported nonprofits focused on protecting and improving Atlanta's urban forest. The city of Atlanta has been a recognized Tree City USA community for 37 years. The recognition is awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation to cities who meet four overarching standards that demonstrate their commitment to urban forestry and wellbeing among residents.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Arbor Day Foundation on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Arbor Day Foundation

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/arbor-day-foundation

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Arbor Day Foundation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/741063/Arbor-Day-Foundation-and-Trees-Atlanta-Bring-Together-Corporate-Local-Resources-for-Planting-Event-in-Honor-of-Late-US-Representative-John-Lewis
Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Tethys Petroleum Limited (TSXV: TPL) ("Tethys" or the "Company") is providing an update on the claim made by the Prosecutor's Office of the Aktobe region or the Republic of Kazakhstan ("the Republic").

Tethys wishes to announce that the Astana Specialized Economic Court has ruled today that there are not sufficient grounds for satisfying the claim made by the Prosecutor's Office of the Aktobe Region. As Tethys previously reported, the Prosecutor's office claimed that the 2020 and 2021 extension of the subsoil contract No. 1897 between Kul-Bas LLP and the Ministry of Energy were not valid. The Company's defense effectively demonstrated that the procedures for the extension were carried out in accordance with the current legislation, and that there are no sufficient grounds for satisfying the Prosecutor's claim. The Ministry of Energy also provided a letter confirming that there was an investigation that concluded with no criminal charges being filed against any MOE or Tethys employees on this case. The Court confirmed that the Prosecutor's Office did not provide sufficient grounds to recognize the additional agreements as invalid. At the same time, Kul-Bas was able to prove the proper fulfillment of its obligations. The judge also took into account the following: (i) information regarding the closure of the criminal case against the Ministry's authorities by the Prosecutor's Office and (ii) the social aspect of the issue, specifically the possible negative consequences for employees. Finally, the judge emphasized that the Ministry's actions to agree a new debt repayment schedule align with the Supreme Court's recommendations to find ways to reconcile government agencies with investors.

An appeal or motion by the Prosecutor may be filed within one month of this decision. Given the strength of the arguments of the legal defense in part due to the cooperation of the Ministry of Energy, and the unambiguous ruling from the court, management believes this to be unlikely.

Operations update:

Tethys has recently encountered reduced interest and lower pricing on its oil sales. About the time that the Prosecutor made his claim against the Kul-bas license, an order was proposed in the country that would have eliminated the ability of oil buyers to export certain products outside of the country from the refining of domestic oil (ex. naptha). The proposed order generated significant responses from the mini-refineries, oil buyers and oil producers who were most directly affected. Our understanding is that the order limiting export of these products for a limited period of four months has not yet been implemented and confirmed. Tethys management is unable to know to what extent the concerns of the oil buyers gravitated on the issues created by the prosecutor's claim or the issues created by the possible change in policy. Over the last few days, Tethys has entered into contracts with new oil buyers but at reduced prices and volumes. Management hopes the resolution of the prosecutor claim and an eventual resolution with the Order will allow for a better oil market going forward.

About Tethys

Tethys is focused on oil and gas exploration and production activities in Central Asia and the I Caspian Region. Tethys believes that significant potential exists in both exploration and in discovered deposits in the area.

Disclaimer

Some of the statements in this document are forward-looking. No part of this announcement constitutes, or shall be taken to constitute, an invitation or inducement to invest in the Company or any other entity and shareholders of the Company are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Save as required by applicable law, the Company does not undertake to update or change any forward-looking statements to reflect events occurring after the date of this announcement.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Contact Information:

Tethys Petroleum

Casey McCandless

Chief Financial Officer

901-763-4001

info@tethys-group.com

www.tethys-group.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156402
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Drone Delivery Canada Corp. (TSXV: FLT) (OTCQX: TAKOF) (FSE: A3DP5Y) (FSE: ABBA.F) (the "Company") announces the expiration of the consulting agreement pursuant to which Richard Buzbuzian has been performing ongoing services to the Company has expired, and that Mr. Buzbuzian has resigned from the Company's advisory board (the "Advisory Board"). Mr. Buzbuzian is the former President of the Company, as well as a former director.

Steve Magirias, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, stated: "Mr. Buzbuzian is one of the original founding members of the team at Drone Delivery Canada Corp. and has been instrumental to the success of the Company over the years in connection with the Company's stock exchange listing, getting our story heard, and securing financing. On behalf of the Company, we would like to thank Mr. Buzbuzian for all of his contributions to Drone Delivery Canada corp., and wish him every success in his future endeavours."

About Drone Delivery Canada Corp.

Drone Delivery Canada Corp. is an award-winning drone technology company focused on the design, development, and implementation of its proprietary logistics software platform, using drones. The Company's platform is intended to be used as a Software as a Service (SaaS) model for government and corporate organizations globally.

Drone Delivery Canada Corp. is a publicly listed company trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol FLT, on the U.S. OTC QX market under the symbol TAKOF and on the Frankfurt exchange in Germany under the symbol A3DP5Y or ABBA.F.

Read more at: www.DroneDeliveryCanada.com or on DDC's social media:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/drone-delivery-canada

https://www.youtube.com/dronedeliverycanada

https://www.facebook.com/dronedeliverycanada

https://www.instagram.com/dronedeliverycanada

https://twitter.com/DroneDeliveryCa

For further information:

Investor Relations: Mr. Steve Magirias, Chief Executive Officer, and Mr. Bill Mitoulas, Telephone: (416) 479-9547, Email: billm@dronedeliverycanada.com

Media Relations: Mr. Steve Magirias, Chief Executive Officer

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking information that involves substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Such statements often address expected future business and financial performance, financial condition, and other matters, and often contain words or phrases such as "expect," "may," "can," "believe," "forecast," "estimate," "goal," "target," "will," and other similar expressions, and variations or negatives of these words or phrases. This forward-looking information is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, market acceptance, and dependence upon regulatory approvals (both in Canada and internationally). Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking information. Except as may be required by applicable securities law, the parties undertake no obligation to update forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156410
CANBERA (dpa-AFX) - Japan will on Tuesday release preliminary January figures for industrial production, highlighting a modest day for Asia-Pacific economic activity. Output is expected to sink 2.6 percent on month after rising 0.3 percent in December. Japan also will see January numbers for retail sales, construction orders and housing starts. Sales are expected to add 4.0 percent on year, up from 3.8 percent in the previous month. Housing starts are called higher by an annual 1.0 percent after falling 1.7 percent a month earlier. Construction orders gained 8.5 percent on year in December. Australia will provide Q4 numbers for current account and January figures for retail sales and private sector credit. The current account is expected to show a surplus of A$6.8 billion following the A$2.3 billion deficit in Q3. Sales are tipped to rise 1.2 percent on month after slipping 3.9 percent in December. Credit is called steady at 0.3 percent on month. Thailand will release January figures for imports, exports, trade balance and current account. In December, imports were down 10.5 percent, exports sank 12.9 percent, the trade surplus was $1.00 billion and the current account surplus was $1.10 billion. Finally, the markets in Taiwan remain closed on Tuesday for Peace Memorial Day and will re-open on Wednesday. Copyright(c) 2023 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.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Arctic Fox Lithium Corp. (formerly Arctic Fox Ventures Inc.) (CSE:AFX)(FSE:7N4) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that on February 27, 2023 it entered into a Letter of Intent (the "LOI") with 1000383374 Ontario Inc. ("3374") to acquire 34 active mineral claims located in the James Bay region of Quebec (the "Acquisition"). The 34 mineral claims known as the Pontax North Lithium project consist of 1,803 hectares of land. Under the terms of the LOI the Company would be required to issue up to 6,000,000 common shares in the Company and make a cash payment of CAD$50,000 on execution of a definitive agreement with respect to the Acquisition. The Company and 3374 will work towards executing a mutually agreeable definitive agreement within fifteen days. The Acquisition is an arm's length transaction and there are no finder's fees payable in connection with it.

Harry Chew, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company commented: "We are excited to add the Pontax North Lithium project to our portfolio of projects in the James Bay region of Quebec. Together with our Kana Lake Lithium project, upon completion of the Acquisition, the Company would have over 3,900 hectares of land and 75 mineral claims in this region. Our planned focus after the Acquisition is to explore and develop these claim blocks in hopes of proving a lithium resource."

The Acquisition will not constitute a change of business.

The Company is also pleased to announce that it has received approval from the Registrar of Companies for the Province of British Columbia to change its name to Arctic Fox Lithium Corp. The Company feels that the new name better aligns with its focus on lithium projects in North America. At a later date, the Company will provide its existing beneficial shareholders with a letter of transmittal instructing them on how they may exchange share certificates under the previous name of the Company with share certificates under the new name. The Company will also issue a subsequent press release to advise as to when the Company will commence trading under the new name. It is not anticipated that the Company's current trading symbol will change in connection with the name change.

About Pontax North Lithium

The 1,803-hectare Pontax North Lithium Project is located 12 km south of Galaxy Resources Ltd. (ASX:GXY) now Allkem Ltd. (ASX/TSX:ALLKEM) ("Allkem") James Bay Lithium Project and 12 km north of Stria Lithium Inc.'s (CSE:SRA) Pontax Lithium Project, located in northern Quebec, approximately 130 km east of James Bay and the Cree Nation's Eastmain community.

The claims within the northern portion of the Property contains a lithium prospective zone in a similar geological environment to Allkem's project. According to the Quebec Ministere de l'Energie et des Ressources Naturelles (MERN) this zone is characterized by the abundance of S-type pegmatitic granite intrusions, a lithology known for its Be, Li, Nb, and Ta potential. Beryl (a beryllium silicate mineral) is reported in several outcrops within this zone. The Property is known to contain a 10 km long pegmatite trend as mapped by MERN. This trend appears to be underexplored, despite its recognized lithium potential. Swarms of lithium-bearing granitic dykes are present 12 km north of the Property at Allkem's Cyr showing and at Stria Lithium's Pontax showing 12 km to the south.

Allkem is proposing to develop a lithium mine at their James Bay Lithium Project, located adjacent to the Billy Diamond Highway which provides access to key infrastructure in the region. The 2021 Feasibility Study ("FS") details a 330 ktpa spodumene operation utilizing conventional open pit mining. Allkem's spodumene expertise from the success of its Mt. Cattlin operations in Western Australia has been applied to the design and development of the James Bay Project. The FS suggests that James Bay Project will be the most competitive operation in the region with the lowest capital and operating costs. Shallow, high-grade mineralization with favourable infrastructure also supports the low-cost operation. Allkem has published a mineral resource estimate of 40.3 Mt @1.40% Li2O (FS summary here) and mineralization is still open.

Stria launched its first full drilling program at its Pontax project in 2017, completing seven holes for a total of 911.4 m. All seven holes intersected spodumene - bearing pegmatite dykes grading from 0.65% Li2O to 2.49% Li2O over a minimum of 1.0 m (Stria Lithium web site). The best intercept was 21.39m grading 1.16% Li2O in drill hole 975-17-0142.

References to adjacent properties:

12 km North: Galaxy Lithium James Bay2 Lithium:

https://gxy.com/james-bay-2/

12 km South: Stria Lithium Inc. (Pontax Lithium Project):

https://strialithium.com/projects/pontax-project/

For further information, please contact:

Harry Chew, President, CEO

Phone: (604) 689-2646

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Harry Chew"

Harry Chew

President & CEO

Arctic Fox Lithium Corp.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

* This news release contains information about adjacent properties on which Arctic Fox has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties.

The technical information contained within this News Release has been reviewed and approved by Gerald G. Carlson, Ph.D., P.Eng., Director of Arctic Fox and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Forward-Looking Information: This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address any activities and events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although Arctic Fox believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the acquisition contemplated in the LO; future share issuances and payment obligations; the entering into of a definitive agreement relating to the Acquisition; future approvals required in respect of the Acquisition; and matters relating to the name change of the Company. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include inability to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to the Acquisition on the terms as currently anticipated or at all; inability to secure any or all necessary approvals in order for the Acquisition to occur; inability to find potential investors willing to invest in future private placements; market prices; disruptions relating to the COVID-19 pandemic; continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions including, among other things, assumptions: regarding general business and economic conditions; that a definitive agreement will be entered into with respect to the Acquisition; and that all necessary approvals (regulatory and otherwise) required in respect of the Acquisition and in connection with the name change of the Company. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Arctic Fox Ventures Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/741066/Letter-of-Intent-To-Acquire-the-Pontax-North-Lithium-Project-in-Quebec-and-Name-Change-to-Arctic-Fox-Lithium-Corp
Blockchain Founders Fund (BFF), a Singapore-based early stage venture capital firm focused on Web3, closed its Fund II, at USD 75M.

Investors included family offices and institutions in the industry like Polygon, Ripple, Octava, NEO Global Capital , Appworks, Sebastien Borget, GSR, LD Capital, and Metavest Capital.

Led by Aly Madhavji, Managing Partner, and Tobias Bauer, and Mansoor Madhavji, Partners, the firm aims to support high growth potential pre-seed and seed stage startups that redefine and streamline the mass adoption of Web3 and blockchain technology. The team works closely with portfolio founders through its venture program that provides execution focused support across business functions including marketing, growth hacking, tokenomics, fundraising, and more to accelerate and drive success.

BFF has also built a global collective of more than 350+ executive advisors in its Expert Network, which provides a comprehensive environment for portfolio companies to collaborate with leading investors and industry experts, including business advisors, entrepreneurs, mentors and blockchain thought-leaders. The network connects its members to a wide range of resources and helps them establish meaningful relationships in the blockchain space.

Currently, BFF has invested in over 100 startups including Altered State Machine, Splinterlands, GRID, Krayon and Magna. They made 50 investments in the past 12 months.

FinSMEs

27/02/2023
Comun, a NYC-based neobank focused on Latinos, raised $4.5M in Seed funding.

The round was led by Costanoa Ventures with participation from South Park Commons and FJ Labs.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its business reach among Latino immigrants in the U.S.

Founded in 2021 by Abiel Gutierrez and Andres Santos, Comun provides Latino immigrants and Spanish speakers with the opportunity to open a bank account with their passport from their cell phone. It offers, via a Spanish-first user experience, and 24/7 support, a Visa debit card, direct deposits for payroll, and free ATM withdrawals and deposits. The platform also provides educational content to allow users to manage their finances.

FinSMEs

26/02/2023
NYC-based venture capital firm Fifth Wall closed three new funds totalling $1.5B in 2022.

These included:

$866M Real Estate Tech Fund III,

140M European Fund, and

$500M Climate Fund.

Founded in 2016, Fifth Wall is a large venture capital firm focused on technology for the global real estate industry. With approximately $3.2B in commitments and capital under management, Fifth Wall connects the worlds largest owners and operators of real estate with the entrepreneurs who are redefining the future of the Built World. the firm is backed by a global mix of more than 110 strategic Limited Partners from more than 15 countries, including BNP Paribas Real Estate, British Land, CBRE, Cushman & Wakefield, Hilton, Hines, Host Hotels & Resorts, Ivanhoe Cambridge, Kimco Realty Corporation, Lennar, Lowes Home Improvement, Marriott International, MetLife Investment Management, MGM Resorts, Starwood Capital, Toll Brothers, and others.

Fifth Wall has a team of 75 investment professionals across five offices in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, and recently opened Singapore office.

Founded in North America, the firm has expanded internationally with its European Fund, London and Singapore offices, and more than 110 strategic Limited Partners who represent some of todays largest real estate owners from 15 different countries such as DAMAC (United Arab Emirates), British Land (United Kingdom), MERLIN Properties (Spain), MITSUBISHI ESTATE CO., LTD. (Japan) and NZ Super Fund (New Zealand), among many others. Fifth Wall boasts strategic Limited Partners from each major asset class across the real estate value chain, including Industrial (Prologis), Retail (Macerich), Multifamily (Camden Property Trust), Single Family (Invitation Homes), Homebuilding (Lennar), Healthcare (Physicians Realty Trust), Hotels (Hilton), Services (CBRE), and Listings (News Corp / Move, Inc.), among others.

FinSMEs

27/02/2023
Marco, a Miami, FL-based provider of a tech-enabled trade financing platform, raised $8.2M in Equity funding and received a $200M Credit facility.

MidCap Financial and Castlelake provided the debt financing.

Arcadia Funds led the equity round.

The company intends to use the funds to expand its trade finance platform and suite of trade services.

Founded in 2020 by Peter D. Spradling (COO) and Jacob Shoihet (CEO), Marco is a provider of a tech-enabled trade financing platform built for small and medium-sized businesses in Latin America and the United States. It acts as an operating system for SMEs in trade in LatAm addressing the lack of liquidity and tools they need quickly, and during bear market cycles.

The credit facility and equity financing follow a year of significant growth for the three-year-old fintech company. Last year, Marco lent $100M, and has financed over $254M with zero losses since inception and saw 1,500%+ CAGR in funding between 2021 and 2022. The company aims to fund $750M by the end of 2023, focusing on target segments in the U.S. and across LatAm, specifically in Mexico, Ecuador, Colombia, and Peru, where total exports exceed $490 billion.

The Miami-based fintech also has offices in Montevideo and New York.

FinSMEs

27/02/2023
Tibet sees increasing green coverage year by year

Xinhua) 08:46, February 27, 2023

LHASA, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- More trees and expanding grasslands have covered southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region over the years, thanks to central and local government's afforestation efforts, official figures showed.

As a pilot zone for high-altitude tree planting projects, the regional capital Lhasa has carried out various scientific research efforts since 2012.

Over the past decade, more than 30 species suitable for planting on the plateau have been screened and planted, according to Hu Zhiguang, deputy director of the regional forestry and grassland bureau.

In 2021, the largest afforestation project in Tibet was launched. According to the plan, the project is expected to complete afforestation of about 2.07 million mu (137,800 hectares) by 2030.

After completion of the project, the annual increase of newly-added water storage will reach 49.8 million tonnes, carbon sequestration 229,100 tonnes, and oxygen release 193,000 tonnes, respectively, which will create an annual ecological value of over 1.48 billion yuan (about 215.4 million U.S. dollars).

With an average altitude of 4,500 meters, Nagqu on the northern Tibetan plateau was once the only city in China without trees. Following nearly 20 years of exploration, scattered trees have survived and are growing in the yards of some government departments and next to some roads.

The central government has since 2012 invested an accumulated 12.7 billion yuan in building an ecological security barrier in Tibet, according to Shui Yanping, deputy director of the regional department of ecology and environment, adding that the forest coverage rate increased to 12.31 percent, while the comprehensive vegetation coverage of grassland reached 47.14 percent.

Statistics show that in 2022, Tibet completed afforestation of some 1.18 million mu and restored over 4.37 million mu of degraded grassland, with 50 percent of its land area classified under ecological protection.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Robin AI, a London, UK-based generative AI startup that aims to make contracts simple, raised $10.5M in funding.

The round was led by Plural, with participation from Episode 1, Tom Blomfield, and senior executives across the legal and private equity industries from Bridgepoint, Apollo, Clifford Chance and Barings.

The company intends to use the funds to further development of its tech team. It has enabled the partial acquisition of competitor LawGeex, whose customers include UBS, PWC, Ebay and Pepsi. Robin AI is adding a cohort of these customers to its existing base of private equity and financial services clients including law firm Clifford Chance, and impact fund Blue Earth Capital.

Founded in 2019 and led by Richard Robinson, CEO, Robin AI provides free self-serve software that helps SMEs process contracts faster and at significantly lower cost. Businesses can make use of features to edit volume contracts efficiently, alongside specialist support from its 30 in-house lawyers. The company serves a diverse range of customers from large multinational corporations to SMEs and scale-ups.

Robin AIs machine learning model is trained on proprietary data from 4.5 million legal documents, enabling users to draft and negotiate contracts faster, saving on legal fees.

FinSMEs

27/02/2023
At MWC Barcelona 2023, Nokia announced a new company and technology strategy, along with a refreshed brand, as part of their long-term strategic advancement. Nokia recently secured a 10-year 5G contract with Antina in Singapore.

Nokias Strategy Announcement

In the past two years, Nokia has achieved many milestones. To ensure sustainable and profitable growth, we have revised our operating model and implemented new cultural essentials such as Open, Fearless, and Empowered. Above all, our purpose is to develop technology to help the world act together, said the company.

Want a glimpse of the exponential potential of networks and their power to transform the world? Come to our stand at #MWC23 to see the next big evolution of Nokia. pic.twitter.com/avTyEqqXq1  Nokia #MWC23 (@nokia) February 26, 2023

Digital Transformation

Organizations from every sector are using digitalization to enhance performance, flexibility, and productivity in a sustainable way. Networks are essential for this change, and Nokia has a superior portfolio of fixed, mobile and cloud networking technologies.

A Refreshed Brand to Support Digitalization

A new identity has been revealed, emphasizing a commitment to producing cutting-edge B2B technology solutions to enable digital transformation in all sectors.

Nokia is refreshing their brand to reflect their identity as a technology innovation leader in the B2B context. The new logo symbolizes collaboration and the potential of networks to unlock gains in sustainability, productivity, and accessibility.

Nokias Refreshed Company Strategy

Nokia is executing a three-phased strategy to achieve sustainable and profitable growth. The reset phase is complete, and the company will continue to accelerate and lay the foundation for the scale phase, becoming an undisputed technology leader and broadening its customer base.

Nokia has set long-term financial targets and announced six pillars to deliver them:

Grow market share with service providers

Expand the share of Enterprises within its customer mix

Manage its portfolio actively for a leading position in all segments

Seize opportunities from sectors beyond mobile devices

Implement new business models, such as as-a-Service

Develop ESG into a competitive advantage

Nokia is also focused on four key enablers: developing future-fit talent, investing in research, digitalizing operations, and refreshing the brand.

Technology Strategy

Nokia has updated their technology strategy to explain how networks must adapt to the metaverse era. Networks must combine the traditional qualities of networking with the scalability of cloud to meet the demands of digital connectivity.

That can sense, think, and act have the potential to transform every industry. Nokia is in a prime position to lead this transformation with their expansive product portfolio and research from Nokia Bell Labs.

Speaking on the annoucement, Pekka Lundmark, President and CEO of Nokia, said:
Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2021.
English Lithuanian

On the 27th of February 2023 at 9:00 (EET) AB Klaipedos nafta holds a conference webinar for its shareholders, investors, mass media representatives and other stakeholders. The presentation is held in English.

The webinar is hosted by KN Chief Executive Officer Darius Silenskis and Chief Financial Officer Mindaugas Kveksas who will introduce the Groups financial results for the twelve months of 2022 and will answer the participant questions.

Webinar presentation is enclosed.





Mindaugas Kveksas, Chief Financial Officer, +370 46 391772





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Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "UAE Elevator and Escalator - Market Size & Growth Forecast 2023-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The UAE elevator and escalator market by new installations accounted for 12.4 thousand units in 2022 and is expected to reach 17.1 thousand units by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.73% from 2022-2029.



The tourism industry in the United Arab Emirates is booming, mainly due to an influx of business, sports, leisure, and religious visitors. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the most popular destinations for international visitors in the United Arab Emirates. With 10.1 million visitors in the first eight months of 2022, Dubai was 4th among the world's most popular cities. With 5.26 million visitors, Abu Dhabi was ranked 94th.

In 2021, The UAE's top ten tourism projects were worth USD 40 billion (27.2 billion), maintaining the country's position as the GCC region's tourism leader.

The Abu Dhabi Plan Capital 2030 aims to increase urbanization and tourism in the UAE's major cities. The UAE is working on transportation and road infrastructure projects, including the USD 11 billion Etihad Rail project, the USD 5.9 billion projected hyperloop project between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the USD 2.7 billion Sheikh Zayed double-deck road project, and others.

Expanding residential construction to hike elevators and escalators demand

Five supertall skyscraper developments are underway in the region, which is expected to support the UAE elevator and escalator market. Construction of Ciel Tower (366 m), Primo Tower 1 (356 m), Uptown Tower (339 m), One Za'abeel Residential Tower (330 m), and Al Wasl Tower (302 m) is expected to complete by 2023. As a result, demand for traction elevators is likely to rise as more skyscrapers are constructed.



UAE under-construction private villa or low-rise projects (such as Emaar Majestic Vistas, Emaar Surf, etc.) increased from 5,165 in 2020 to 5,642 in 2021, increasing the demand for 2-15-person elevators in the UAE elevator and escalator market.



Ongoing demand for buildings construction in infrastructure and commercial sector to boost demand for installation of elevators and escalators.



The Dubai Land Department (DLD) registered 2,845 commercial property transactions totaling Dh33.9 billion (USD 9.2 billion) in the third quarter of 2021. Compared to the previous quarter, transaction volumes were up 1%, and year-over-year, they were 34% higher.



With government-backed companies (Abu Dhabi Investment Council, Aabar Investments, etc.) projected to remain the primary source of demand for Grade A office space, an improvement in the macroeconomic situation could contribute to an increase in the entire commercial elevator industry in the future years.



One of the under-construction commercial projects in Abu Dhabi is Masdar City, with a projected value of USD 22,000 million and is supposed to complete by 2025.



Government's efforts to expand infrastructure across the nation to increase demand for new installations.



To help expand this industry even more, the Gulf aims to introduce a uniform visa procedure for international travelers, making travel formalities easier.

In addition to operating flights on new routes in Asia, Europe, and Africa, regional airlines such as Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Emirates Airlines are extending their codeshare arrangements with various airlines. As a result of these advancements, passengers will have access to ever more diverse travel options. The combination of these efforts will increase international tourist arrivals in the country.



UAE approves development projects worth nearly USD 54 million. The approved development initiatives include implementing a USD 49 million project linking Sheikh Khalifa Specialty Hospital with the Federal Road Network.

Zenatix has expanded its operations to the Middle East and the UAE region to offer organizations asset management solutions and robust cloud-based energy. Zenatix arrives in the topography at the perfect time with strategic initiatives declared by the Dubai government and corporates around climate preservation and sustainability, the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) planned in Dubai in 2023, and Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050.



Elevators reaching their average life expectancy mainly in high-rise apartment buildings to boost the demand for maintenance in the UAE elevator and escalator market



Otis has introduced its enhanced 'Signature Service' offering in the UAE elevator and escalator market. Signature Service includes new digital technologies with the company's legacy of special care for its customers' people-moving equipment.



A digital economy approach drives the long-term growth potential of the modernization industry in UAE by integrating emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence Cyber Security and supporting SME digitization.



The maintenance and modernization in the UAE elevator and escalator market accounted for 67% and 33%, respectively, for the year 2022.

VENDOR LANDSCAPE

The key players in the UAE elevator and escalator market are KONE, Otis, Mitsubishi Electric, Schindler, Hyundai Elevator, TK Elevator, and Hitachi. The top 4 prominent vendors, including KONE, Otis, Mitsubishi Electric, and Schindler, account for 48% of the UAE elevator and escalator market share in UAE.

Schindler UAE is rising to the demands of the Emirates' ever-expanding urbanization, confronting obstacles with a digital strategy, and bringing people to flow management to new heights. In March 2019, KONE launched its first Regional Distribution Center (RDC) in the United Arab Emirates Dubai South Freezone (DWC). The RDC will be the Middle East and Africa's primary distributor of KONE and non-KONE spare parts.

The Schindler RISE (Schindler Robotic Installation System for Elevators) is being used to construct the Uptown Tower, a 340-meter-high skyscraper in Dubai's Uptown district be finished in 2022.

UAE Elevators Markets

Future Outlook

UAE Escalators Market- by Segments

UAE Escalators Market Size and Forecast, Volume (Units), 2020-2029

Key Vendors

KONE

Mitsubishi Electric

TK Elevator

Hitachi

Hyundai Elevator

Otis

Fujitec

Schindler

KOHLER Elevator GmbH

Other Prominent Vendors

Sigma Elevator

Orona

KLEEMANN

Toshiba Elevator And Building Systems Corporation

ALFA Elevator Co. LLC

SEGMENT ANALYSIS

Elevator Market Segmentation

Machine Type

Hydraulic and Pneumatic

Machine Room Traction

Machine Room Less Traction

Others

Climbing

Elevators

Industrial Elevators

Carriage Type

Passenger

Freight

Capacity

2-15 Persons

16-24 Persons

25-33 Persons

34 Persons and Above

End-User

Commercial

Residential

Industrial

Others

Public Transit

Institutional

Infrastructural

Escalator Market Segmentation

Product Type

Parallel

Multi Parallel

Walkway

Crisscross

End-User

Public Transit

Commercial

Others

Institutional Sector

Infrastructure

Industrial

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/cwyzoy-elevator-and?w=12

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance Software Market (2022-2027) by Functionality, Delivery Mode, End -user, and Geography, Competitive Analysis and the Impact of Covid-19 with Ansoff Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Global Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance Software Market is estimated to be USD 7.06 Bn in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 11.43 Bn by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 10.11%



Market dynamics are forces that impact the prices and behaviors of the 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 growth and reducing risks.

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 Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance Software Market. Ansoff Matrix, also known as the 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 Global Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance Software Market 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 Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance Software Market. The report includes in-depth qualitative analysis, verifiable data from authentic sources, and projections about market size. The projections are calculated using proven research methodologies.

The report has been compiled through extensive primary and secondary research. The primary research is done through interviews, surveys, and observation of renowned personnel in the industry.

The report includes an in-depth market analysis using Porter's 5 forces model and the Ansoff Matrix. In addition, the impact of Covid-19 on the market is also featured in the report.

The report also includes the regulatory scenario in the industry, which will help you make a well-informed decision. The report discusses major regulatory bodies and major rules and regulations imposed on this sector across various geographies.

The report also contains a competitive analysis using Positioning Quadrants, the analyst's competitive positioning tool.

Report Metrics:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 188 Forecast Period 2022 - 2027 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $7.06 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2027 $11.43 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 10.1% Regions Covered Global

Market Dynamics

Drivers

Rising Incidence of ADR and Drug Toxicity

Increasing Need to Reduce Time Spent Reviewing Medical Literature for Aggregate Reports and Articles

Highly Regulated Pharmacovigilance Space

Restraints

Expensive Deployment of Pharmacovigilance & Drug Safety Software

Opportunities

Increasing Investment in Research and Development (R&D) by Healthcare Companies

Integration of AI and Machine Learning Models in Pharmacovigilance & Drug Safety Software

Challenges

Lack of Awareness, Training, and Underreporting of Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) in Developing Countries

Market Segmentation



The Global Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance Software Market is segmented based on Functionality, Delivery Mode, End -user, and Geography.

By Functionality, the market is classified into Adverse Event Reporting Software, Drug Safety Audits Software, Issue Tracking Software, and Fully Integrated Software.

By Delivery Mode, the market is classified into On-premise Delivery Mode, and On-demand/Cloud based (SaaS) Delivery Mode.

By End -user, the market is classified into Pharma and Biotech Companies, Contract Research Organizations (CROs), Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Firms, and Other Pharmacovigilance Service Providers.

By Geography, the market is classified into Americas, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia-Pacific.

Companies Mentioned

4C Pharma Solutions

AB Cube

Accenture, PLC

Advera Health Analytics, Inc.

Anju Software, Inc.

ArisGlobal, LLC

Clinevo Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp.

Ennov

Ergomed, PLC

Extedo GmbH

Indegene, Inc.

IQVIA, Inc.

Oracle Corp.

Sarjen Systems Pvt. Ltd.

Sparta Systems, Inc.

United BioSource, LLC

Wipro, Ltd.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/w7hedq-drug?w=12

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Detroit, Michigan, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc., (the Company) (OTCPK:AITX), a global leader in AI-driven security and productivity solutions for enterprise clients, today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD) has secured orders exceeding 300 units as the end of its fiscal year approaches. The Company's fiscal year is set to conclude on February 28, 2023.



With this impressive device order intake number, the Company has demonstrated its ability to create compelling solutions and deliver them to discerning clients. Growing demand for RAD's products underscores the Company's exceptional innovation, quality, and customer-centric approach and growing experience delivery premium client experiences bodes well for the Companys scalability.

We expect that Fiscal year 2024 will be a heck of year. Of course I know the sales funnel and I believe our team will delivery significant numbers this year. I think sales will be further buoyed by the tech innovations and sales technique improvements that well be debuting over the next couple of months, said Steve Reinharz, CEO of AITX and RAD. I want to commend the RAD team for its productivity and successes to date.

RAD had an intake of 187 device orders throughout FY 2022 which ended February 28, 2022. The Company plans to report the final FY 2023 order intake results after the fiscal year formally closes.



RAD's robust sales results and growing sales pipeline is a testament to the quality of our solutions and the strength of our customer relationships, said Mark Folmer, CPP, FSyI, RAD President. RAD is well-positioned to take on any challenge and continue to deliver exceptional solutions and cost savings to its clients.

Reinharz added, We are constantly striving to provide the highest value to our clients, channel partners, shareholders, and community. It is our innovation and unwavering pursuit of excellence, which allows us to maintain a competitive edge in a dynamic market. We are excited about the future and look forward to sharing our success with all those who have supported us along the way.

AITX through its subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), is redefining the $25 billion (US) security and guarding services industry through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide a cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industrys existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. RAD delivers this tremendous costs savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house.

RAD has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time.

CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the "Company"). This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance and may involve subjective judgment and analysis. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company's future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.

About Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX)

AITX is an innovator in the delivery of artificial intelligence-based solutions that empower organizations to gain new insight, solve complex challenges and fuel new business ideas. Through its next-generation robotic product offerings, AITXs RAD, RAD-M and RAD-G companies help organizations streamline operations, increase ROI, and strengthen business. AITX technology improves the simplicity and economics of patrolling and guard services and allows experienced personnel to focus on more strategic tasks. Customers augment the capabilities of existing staffs and gain higher levels of situational awareness, all at drastically reduced cost. AITX solutions are well suited for use in multiple industries such as enterprises, government, transportation, critical infrastructure, education, and healthcare. To learn more, visit www.aitx.ai, www.stevereinharz.com, www.radsecurity.com , www.radgroup.ai, and www.radlightmyway.com, or follow Steve Reinharz on Twitter @SteveReinharz .

###

Steve Reinharz

949-636-7060

@SteveReinharz

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Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report by Device Type (Fixed, Portable), by Activity Level (High, Medium, Low), by Age Group, by End-use, by Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2022-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global multiparameter patient monitoring system market size is expected to reach USD 18.0 Billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of during the forecast period.

Companies Mentioned

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

General Electric Company

Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co. Ltd.

Dragerwerk AG & Co. Kgaa

Medtronic plc

Smiths Medical

Schiller

Masimo Corporation

Spacelabs Healthcare

Skanray Technologies Pvt. Ltd

Sternmed Gmbh

Increasing health concerns and the resultant requirement to constantly monitor the health parameters of patients, before and after surgery is creating demand for multiparameter patient monitoring systems.



The market growth is also supported by the increasing need for hospital transport, such as intra-hospital or out-of-the-hospital transport. For special examination & therapy, hospitals need intra-hospital transport, which calls for more continuous monitoring of vital signs including blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry, heart rate, and electrocardiography.



Healthcare providers are continually looking for innovative medical products to offer superior quality care, which is also expected to drive the market. Mobile solutions and data integration low-acuity monitoring are the significant trends that improve the cost efficiency of multiparameter patient monitoring solutions. Key players are introducing advanced patient monitoring products, such as integrated remote monitoring solutions with added features of greater connectivity through cloud technology and WiFi.



For instance, Radius-7 Pulse Co-Oximeters by Masimo Corp. got U.S. FDA approval in March 2020. It is a wearable patient monitor with flexible functionality of WiFi, Bluetooth, and alarms.



Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market Report Highlights

Portable was the largest device type segment in 2021 accounting for 65.7% 2021 due to growing home healthcare and easy mobility across different departments within the hospital

By acuity level, the high segment has accounted for the highest market share in 2021 due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as CVDs, respiratory disorders, and other critical medical conditions, which need continuous monitoring

By age group, the geriatric segment accounted for the largest segment in 2021 with a share of 53.8% 2021 due to the rapidly growing geriatric population that is susceptible to various chronic disorders, which require continuous patient monitoring

By end-use, the hospital's segment has accounted for the highest market share in 2021 due to the increasing number of patients being admitted to hospitals due to chronic diseases, injuries, and other emergencies

North American region contributed the largest share to the market in the year 2021 attributing to the availability of technologically advanced equipment and high-quality healthcare system

Report Metrics:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 132 Forecast Period 2022 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $11.6 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $18 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.7% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1 Methodology and Scope



Chapter 2 Executive Summary



Chapter 3 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market: Variables, Trends, & Scope

3.1 Market Segmentation and Scope

3.2 Market Driver Analysis

3.2.1 Increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases

3.2.2 Increase in demand for home care monitoring equipment

3.2.3 Rising demand for real-time and remote patient monitoring

3.3 Market Restraint Analysis

3.3.1 Lack of qualified staff

3.3.2 Data security concerns

3.4 Penetration & Growth Prospect Mapping

3.5 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

3.6 PESTEL Analysis



Chapter 4 Impact of COVID-19

4.1 Impact of COVID-19 on medical devices industry

4.2 Impact of COVID-19 on medical device supply chain

4.3 Aftermath of COVID-19 pandemic on multi-parameter monitoring devices market

4.4 Key steps taken by market players in identifying long-term solutions

4.5 Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on multiparameter patient monitoring market, by region:

4.5.1 North America

4.5.2 Europe

4.5.3 Asia Pacific

4.5.4 Latin America

4.5.5 Middle East & Africa

4.6 Gap Analysis



Chapter 5 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market: Device Type Segment Analysis

5.1 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems: Market Share Analysis, 2020 & 2028

5.2 Portable

5.2.1 Portable market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

5.3 Fixed

5.3.1 Fixed market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)



Chapter 6 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market: Acuity Level Segment Analysis

6.1 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems: Market Share Analysis, 2020 & 2028

6.2 High Acuity Level

6.2.1 High acuity level market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

6.3 Medium Acuity Level

6.3.1 Medium Acuity level market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

6.4 Low Acuity Level

6.4.1 Low Acuity level market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)



Chapter 7 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market: Age Group Segment Analysis

7.1 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems: Market Share Analysis, 2020 & 2028

7.2 Pediatric

7.2.1 Pediatric market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

7.3 Adult

7.3.1 Adult market 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

7.4 Geriatric

7.4.1 Geriatric market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)



Chapter 8 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market: End-use Segment Analysis

8.1 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems: Market Share Analysis, 2020 & 2028

8.2 Hospitals

8.2.1 Hospitals market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

8.3 Homecare

8.3.1 Homecare market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

8.4 Ambulatory surgical centers

8.4.1 Ambulatory surgical centers market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)

8.5 Others

8.5.1 Others market, 2018 - 2030 (USD Million)



Chapter 9 Multiparameter Patient Monitoring Systems Market: Regional Analysis



Chapter 10 Company Profiles

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/cmd8c5

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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Advanced Energy Storage Systems Global Market Report 2022" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global advanced energy storage systems market.



The global advanced energy storage systems market is expected to grow from $15.34 billion in 2021 to $16.69 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.79%. The advanced energy storage systems market is expected to grow to $23.38 billion in 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.81%.

Reasons to Purchase

Gain a truly global perspective with the most comprehensive report available on this market covering 12+ geographies.

Understand how the market is being affected by the coronavirus and how it is likely to emerge and grow as the impact of the virus abates.

Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis.

Identify growth segments for investment.

Outperform competitors using forecast data and the drivers and trends shaping the market.

Understand customers based on the latest market research findings.

Benchmark performance against key competitors.

Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing.

Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis

Major players in the advanced energy storage systems market are ABB, LG Chem, Samsung SDI, General Electric Company, Tesla, Toshiba, Panasonic, Siemens, Saft Groupe, EOS Energy Storage, AES Corporation, EDF Renewables, Schneider and Maxwell Technologies.



The advanced energy storage systems market consists of sales of advanced energy storage systems by entities (organizations, sole traders, and partnerships) that refer to advanced devices that convert electrical energy from power systems and store it to supply electrical energy when needed later. The advanced energy storage systems enable to use and manage the electrical energy efficiently. The energy can be used to produce semiconductors, data storage devices, solar cells, and electricity.



The main technology of advanced energy storage systems are pumped hydro storage, electrochemical storage, electromechanical storage, and thermal storage. Electrochemical energy storage encompasses all secondary batteries. Batteries use an electrochemical oxidation-reduction reverse reaction to convert the chemical energy contained in their active materials into electric energy.

Batteries are currently manufactured in a variety of sizes for a wide range of applications. Advanced energy storage systems are applied in transportation, grid storage, and other applications. These are used by residential and non-residential.



Asia-Pacific was the largest region in the advanced energy storage system market in 2021. The regions covered in advanced energy storage systems market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East and Africa.



The increasing investments in renewable energy are expected to propel the growth of the advanced energy storage systems market. Renewable energy, also known as clean energy is in high demand as it is a non-polluting source of energy and is replenished by nature. The governments and private sectors globally are significantly investing in renewable energy as it is beneficial for minimizing pollution while conserving natural resources.

This rise of investments in renewable energy will create a significant demand for advanced energy storage systems as these are essential to store and manage the energy generated as well as supply for use when needs arise. For instance, according to the estimates by the autonomous intergovernmental organization the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global power sector investment was expected to rise by 5% to more than $820 billion in 2021 over 2020.

Renewables dominated new power generation investment, accounting for 70% of the $530 billion spent on all new power generation capacity in 2021. The remaining amount was invested in grids and storage. A dollar spent on wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) deployment currently generate four times the electricity of a dollar spent on the same technologies a decade ago, owing to rapid technological advancements and cost reductions. Therefore, the increasing investments in renewable energy will drive the growth of the advanced energy storage systems market.



Technology advancement is a key trend gaining popularity in the advanced energy storage systems market. Key players in the market are focusing on implementing technological advancements such as software integration in advanced energy storage systems. These advanced energy storage systems enable advanced features such as improved controls, monitoring, and forecasting abilities, resulting in efficient use of energy. Companies offering these systems can gain a competitive edge in the market.

In May 2022, Bhago Mobility Solutions Private Limited, an Indian green energy company of Modern Automotive Limited, an Indian Next-Gen Technology Startup acquired a stake in Pastiche Energy Solutions (P) Ltd for an undisclosed amount.

This stake acquisition will leverage the expertise of both the companies to make a footprint in advanced energy storage and green mobility by producing solid-state batteries, lithium batteries, and allied products for applications such as energy storage, electric mobility, defense, and others. Pastiche Energy Solutions (P) Ltd is an Indian manufacturer of batteries for advanced energy storage.



The countries covered in the advanced energy storage systems market report are Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, UK and USA.



Report Metrics

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 175 Forecast Period 2022 - 2026 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $16.69 billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2026 $23.38 billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.8% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market Characteristics



3. Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market Trends And Strategies



4. Impact Of COVID-19 On Advanced Energy Storage Systems



5. Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market Size And Growth

5.1. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Historic Market, 2016-2021, $ Billion

5.1.1. Drivers Of The Market

5.1.2. Restraints On The Market

5.2. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Forecast Market, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

5.2.1. Drivers Of The Market

5.2.2. Restraints On the Market



6. Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market Segmentation

6.1. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market, Segmentation By Technology, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

Pumped Hydro Storage

Electrochemical Storage

Electromechanical Storage

Thermal Storage

6.2. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market, Segmentation By Application, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

Transportation

Grid Storage

Other Applications

6.3. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market, Segmentation By End-User, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

Residential

Non-Residential

7. Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market Regional And Country Analysis

7.1. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market, Split By Region, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

7.2. Global Advanced Energy Storage Systems Market, Split By Country, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/bi0dr7-energy?w=12

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
OTTAWA, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On February 23 The National Trust for Canada announced three winning projects in its NEXT GREAT SAVE competition. The winners were decided through online public voting, which closed on February 22.



First Prize ($50,000): Duncan Train Station, Duncan, B.C.

This former station and home to the Cowichan Valley Museum will undergo a green retrofit to ensure savings in energy use, and a 74% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

This former station and home to the Cowichan Valley Museum will undergo a green retrofit to ensure savings in energy use, and a 74% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Second Prize ($10,000): La Vieille Maison, Meteghan, N.S.

This post-exile Acadian home dating from the late 1700s will reopen as a diverse cultural hub after being closed for 20 years.

This post-exile Acadian home dating from the late 1700s will reopen as a diverse cultural hub after being closed for 20 years. Third Prize ($5000): Historic 1916 CNR Hope Station, Hope, B.C. Recently saved from the bulldozer by community members, this station will be reincarnated as a cultural and tourism hub telling the unknown, diverse stories of the region.



The NEXT GREAT SAVE featured ten participating project groups from coast-to-coast vying for cash prizes to adapt, retrofit, renew, or improve a heritage place in their community. A full list of the participating projects can be found on the competition webpage. Participating groups encouraged their community, colleagues, friends, and supporters to vote for their project through many grassroots channels, including local media, social media, sandwich boards, and even a mini competition. In all, over 200,000 votes were cast.

The National Trust kicked off the competition with a $50,000 prize generously provided by Ecclesiastical Insurance. Ecclesiastical is a specialist provider of unique insurance solutions that insures many heritage buildings in Canada. With one week to go, second and third prizes totaling $15,000 were announced, responding to the great enthusiasm shown by all project teams and voters.

Renewing heritage places helps communities keep valuable building materials out of the landfill, build climate resilience, and sustain a sense of place, says Natalie Bull, executive director of the National Trust. The NEXT GREAT SAVE prize winnings will help breathe new life into three great places that serve their communities  and the competition itself created incredible excitement and awareness that we believe will boost all ten.

Congratulations to the Duncan Train Station and all the heritage organizations that participated in this competition. This truly was a great initiative launched by National Trust, raising awareness of a number of heritage properties across Canada that need preserving. We were very impressed by the participation of Canadians across the country who voted over 200,000 times in support of their local communities, said David Huebel, President, Ecclesiastical Insurance. Being leaders in insuring heritage properties we understand just how important it is to ensure these special properties are protected - and we celebrate everyone who is helping to achieve this.

The National Trust thanks Ecclesiastical insurance for their generous support and welcomes enquiries from other corporate partners interested in sponsoring future GREAT SAVE competitions.

About the National Trust for Canada

The National Trust for Canada is a national charity that empowers Canadians to save and renew places that tell their stories and use heritage as a building block for strong and sustainable communities. The Trust is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year.

Media Contact

Allison Kerns, Manager of Communications

National Trust for Canada

akerns@nationaltrustcanada.ca

613-237-1066 x 233



A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8b185ae4-3e41-4d7c-88a3-400fc6a2b1b9
TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brian Gusko Advisory Services Inc. (BGS) reports that two passengers were targeted by a gang of thieves at Pearson Terminal, losing their cell phones, computers, and luggage on Thursday afternoon in Terminal 3.



Brian Gusko, owner of BGS and a 56-year-old businessperson from Edmonton, had his wife lose most of her valuables, which were stolen at the baggage drop for Porter after a Porter agent checked her in and walked her and her husband to the baggage drop.

Says Brian Gusko: I was totally shocked that this could happen to me in Canada. I thought Pearson airport was safe, given the security, police, and video monitoring at the airport. My wife is distraught having lost all her ID photos and immigration documents, including her laptop, iPhone, luggage, passport, and purse. I am a frequent international traveller, having just returned from Brazil, and have been to Africa, Latin America, as well as multiple countries in Asia and Europe over the past 20 years. This NEVER happened to me in my life, being targeted by what appears to be a gang at an airport.

Continues an upset Brian Gusko: We were first in line for the in-person check-in at Porter. A Porter agent directed us to an automated kiosk, which she walked us over to and checked us in, and added the bag tags. She then walked us to the baggage drop. I put one bag on the baggage conveyor. The other suitcase barely fit, and I struggled to fit it in between two metal slots. My wife came over to help. Another Porter agent then came over saying it was slightly overweight, and we needed to remove some items. My wife then turned around, and her luggage and purse were gone. This was stolen in front of two Porter agents post check in at the baggage drop.

Continues Mr. Gusko, The baggage drop area should be a safe zone for passengers. This is the one time that passengers let go of their carry-on luggage and passengers lift their checked bags on to the conveyor belt. Porter should have forseen this risk.

Air Canada and WestJet for instance have cordoned off areas after a person is checked in, and passengers are funneled into a roped-off area where they drop their bags. This area is monitored by staff. The Porter baggage drop area is not roped off and not monitored by a full time agent, allowing thieves to quickly access and leave the area with ease.

Another lady meanwhile had her bag with laptop and passport stolen while she was in the store adjacent to the Porter Check-in.

Peel Police are investigating, however, they have not sent out a media release as of today. Pearson and Porter have not responded about the safety of Pearson and the Porter check-in area.

For media inquiries please contact Brian Gusko at brian@guskoadvisory.com or 604-727-1295.
Melville, NY, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced the ProStream 3000 series, the next generation of its high-speed, web-fed inkjet presses for commercial print. Built on the established ProStream technology platform, the new ProStream 3000 series delivers consistent offset print quality at industrial speed on a wide selection of substrates including heavyweight paper, enabling ultra-fast digital production of a broader range of commercial print jobs.

The extended media capability makes it even easier for print businesses  including general commercial and online printers, direct mail printers, book producers and photo specialty printers  to migrate high-volume, high-value work from offset to digital inkjet and print media like 7 pt. at full machine speed as required. With the ProStream, customers can recognize the full end-to-end productivity benefits of inkjet production across most applications, from direct mail and books, to postcards, posters and calendars.

The ProStream 3000 produces high quality on web widths of up to 22 inches and page lengths up to 60 inches, and up to 436ft per minute, based on the media being used. For those occasions when volumes spike under tight deadlines, the new ProStream series can produce up to 11,300 4/4 B2 sheets per hour, equating to 62 million US letter, on a wide range of substrates and weights, including standard offset coated, uncoated and inkjet-optimized papers up to 300gsm.

To deliver offset quality at extreme speed across a wider range of substrates, the ProStream 3000 incorporates an enhanced drying system. This uses air floatation throughout the paper path  including the advance air impingement turn bar  to help protect the surface quality of the printed output at all stages. The systems asymmetric design dries all jobs evenly and controlled without coming into contact with the paper, delivering exceptional quality even on the most scratch-sensitive media.

Consistent, high quality with accurate, vibrant color is delivered by native 1200dpi piezo drop-on-demand print heads in combination with proven polymer pigment inks and Smart ColorGrip. With Smart ColorGrip, also now available as an option for the ProStream 1000 series, the amount of ColorGrip solution can be customized to the white area of the page, providing adjustment flexibility for heavy or light ink coverage and delivering optimal printed results. Canons Inline Quality Control, a high-performance camera system, also provides automatic print quality assurance, so operators can spend less time on quality control.

Thanks to the increased efficiency of both its drying system and cooling unit, the new ProStreams energy consumption is lower than the 1000 series for most applications, making the ProStream 3000 series a feasible choice for smaller print businesses via reduced electrical infrastructure. The drying and cooling units and the power supply have also been relocated in the new products architecture, improving accessibility for ease and speed of servicing.

At Canon, we share our customers passion for print, and were driven to create technology solutions that accelerate their progress towards their business goals, said Shinichi Sam Yoshida, executive vice president and general manager of Canon U.S.A., Inc. Customers worldwide have already embraced ProStreams exceptional productivity, for everything from high-margin books to premium direct mailing jobs, while benefiting from minimal waste and very high uptime.

Yoshida continues, With the announcement of the new ProStream 3000 series, were building on this success to power our customers faster and further, delivering the speed, efficiency and media versatility they need to energize their growth. The scope to print virtually any job at great ProStream speed means that customers can now confidently migrate even more offset work to digital on-demand, reducing turnaround, slashing make-ready time and waste, making todays shrinking run lengths more profitable and helping to meet brand owners demands for shorter time to market.

To find out more about the Canon ProStream 3000 series, visit here.

Availability

The ProStream 3000 series will debut globally at Hunkeler Innovation Days (February 27  March 2, 2023, Lucerne, Switzerland), where it is being exhibited in live production workflows of a broad range of commercial print applications. The ProStream 3000 Series will be launched and available for the U.S. market Summer of 2023.

About Canon U.S.A. Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions to the United States and to Latin America and the Caribbean markets. With approximately $30.3 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), as of 2022 has ranked in the top-five overall in U.S. patents granted for 37 consecutive years and was one of Fortune Magazine's World's Most Admired Companies in 2022. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To learn more about Canon, visit us at www.usa.canon.com and follow us on Twitter @CanonUSA.

###

 Based on weekly patent counts issued by United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Attachments
LONDON, Ontario, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PEARL RIVER HOLDINGS LIMITED (Pearl River) (TSXV: PRH) announced today that it understands that George Lunick (the "Acquiror"), the President and Chief Executive Officer of Pearl River, acquired 250,000 common shares (the "Common Shares") in the capital of Pearl River at a price of $0.28 per Common Share, representing 0.92% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Pearl River. The Common Shares were offered and purchased through the facilities of the TSX Venture Exchange for an aggregate purchase price of $70,000.



Immediately before the acquisition, the Acquiror and its "joint actors" (as defined in National Instrument 61-103  The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues) owned and controlled 2,129,893 Common Shares, being approximately 7.80% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Pearl River, and 1,000,000 options to purchase Common Shares (the Options). Assuming the exercise of the Options, the Common Shares of Pearl River that the Acquiror and the joint actors would own or control on such exercise would be 3,129,893 Common Shares, or approximately 11.06% of the Common Shares of Pearl River on a partially diluted basis.

Immediately after the acquisition, the Acquiror and is joint actors, owned or controlled 2,379,893 Common Shares, being approximately 8.71% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Pearl River. Assuming the exercise of the Options, the Common Shares of Pearl River that the Acquiror and the joint actors would own or control on such exercise would be 3,379,893 Common Shares, or approximately 11.94% of the Common Shares of Pearl River on a partially diluted basis.

The securities of Pearl River were acquired for investment purposes. The Acquiror reserves the right, directly or indirectly, to acquire ownership or control over additional securities in accordance with applicable securities legislation or from time to time to dispose of any securities of Pearl River that the Acquiror may own.

A copy of the Early Warning Report will appear on Pearl Rivers profile on SEDAR.

The address of the Acquiror and Pearl River is Suite 500 - 383 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3C4.

ABOUT PEARL RIVER

Through its subsidiaries, Pearl River's principal business is the manufacturing and distribution of plastic products in China, Australia and the United States of America.

For further information please contact:

George Lunick

Chief Executive Officer

T: (519) 645-0267

E: george@lunick.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Not for distribution to U.S. news wire services or for dissemination in the United States

Toronto, Ontario, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avante Logixx Inc. ("Avante" or the "Company") (TSXV: XX) is deeply saddened to announce that long time director Leland Verner has passed away. Mr. Verner was a director of the Corporation and was the chair of its board of directors from 2008 to 2019.

On behalf of Avante, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Verners family and friends, said Manny Mounouchos, Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Leland was both an exceptional leader and a valued advisor and will be missed by all who knew him.

To fill the vacancy created by the passing of Mr. Verner, Mr. Bruce Bronfman has rejoined the board of directors, having previously served as a director between 2008 and 2018.

Mr. Bronfman has been and is President of Mida Investments Ltd. since 1994, an investment and advisory firm based in Toronto and has been involved in a number of startup and early-stage companies assisting them with their overall strategic direction, financing and related corporate activities. He provides analysis and context that expands and provides momentum to business ideas. He is currently Strategic Advisor to both Cairn Memory Care Opportunity Fund, a Seniors focused Fund based in Toronto, and Citadel FM, a digital streaming music and advertisement platform based in Boston, Mass.

About Avante Logixx Inc.

Avante Logixx Inc. (TSXV: XX) is a Toronto based provider of high-end security services. We acquire, manage and build industry leading businesses which provide specialized, mission-critical solutions that address the needs of our customers. Our businesses continuously develop innovative solutions that enable our customers to achieve their objectives. With an experienced team and a proven track record of solid growth, we are taking steps to establish a broad portfolio of security businesses to provide our customers and shareholders with exceptional returns. Please visit our website at www.avantelogixx.com and consider joining our investor email list.

Avante Logixx Inc.

Emmanuel Mounouchos

CEO

416 923 6984

manny@avantesecurity.com



Neither the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. ("Exchange") nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
BATAVIA, Ill., Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- High Wire Networks, Inc. (OTCQB: HWNI), a leading global provider of managed security and technology enablement services, has been invited to present at the 35th Annual ROTH Conference being held at The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California on March 12-14, 2023.





The conference will feature on-demand presentations by companies across a range of industry sectors, in-person one-on-one and small group meetings, thematic industry panels and fireside chats.

Past conferences have attracted more than 5,000 attendees that include institutional investors, family offices, high-net-worth investors, and equity analysts.

High Wire CEO, Mark Porter, will participate in one-on-one meetings with analysts and investors. He will be joined by company COO Stephen LaMarche and CTO David Barton.

Management will discuss the companys market leadership in delivering IT and cybersecurity managed services for its channel partners and end-customers worldwide.

The companys strong growth in managed services is being driven by over 600 channel partners who have expanded their service offerings with High Wires tech-enablement and managed cybersecurity solutions. Through these channel partners, High Wires highly flexible and adaptable managed services have earned the trust of tens of thousands of SMBs and enterprise customers worldwide, including hundreds of the Fortune 500, many of the Fortune 50, and multiple top federal government agencies.

High Wire was recently ranked by Frost & Sullivan as a Top 12 Managed Security Service Provider in the Americas. It was also recently named to CRNs MSP 500 and Elite 150 lists of the nations top IT managed service providers.

To submit your Roth Conference registration request, click here. To schedule a one-on-one meeting with High Wire, please contact your ROTH representative. For questions or further information about High Wire, please contact Ron Both of CMA at (949) 432-7557, or submit your request here.



About ROTH Capital Partners

ROTH Capital Partners is a relationship-driven investment bank focused on serving emerging growth companies and their investors. As a full-service investment bank, ROTH provides capital raising, M&A advisory, analytical research, trading, market-making services and corporate access. Headquartered in Newport Beach, CA, ROTH is privately held and employee owned. For more information on ROTH, please visit www.roth.com.



About High Wire Networks

For over 22 years, High Wire Networks, Inc. has been a trusted partner to VARs, MSPs, distributors, integrators, manufacturers and telecom providers, enabling them to minimize overhead while extending their delivery capabilities around the world. High Wires flexible workforce delivers vendor-agnostic technical field, professional and security services across more than 180 countries worldwide.

High Wire services include design, installation, configuration and support for unified communications, wired and wireless networks, cabling and infrastructure, and electrical systems. The High Wire Overwatch Managed Security platform enables the companys partners to deliver comprehensive cybersecurity that is easy to sell and easy to buy as an affordable subscription.

High Wire also offers a variety of on-demand, rapid-response solutions with service levels ranging from two hours to the next business day for onsite break-fix and remote technical support. With High Wire, its partners Get Work Done.

High Wire was recently ranked by Frost & Sullivan as a Top 12 Managed Security Service Provider in the Americas. It was also recently named by CRN Magazine to CRNs MSP 500 and Elite 150 lists for 2023.

Learn more at HighWireNetworks.com. Follow the company on Twitter, view its extensive video series on YouTube or connect on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements:

The above news release contains forward-looking statements. The statements contained in this document that are not statements of historical fact, including but not limited to, statements identified by the use of terms such as "anticipate," "appear," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "hope," "indicate," "intend," "likely," "may," "might," "plan," "potential," "project," "seek," "should," "will," "would," and other variations or negative expressions of these terms, including statements related to expected market trends and the Company's performance, are all "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on assumptions that management believes are reasonable based on currently available information, and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performances and are subject to a wide range of external factors, uncertainties, business risks, and other risks identified in filings made by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in the company's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances upon which any statement is based except as required by applicable law and regulations.

Company Contact:

Mark Porter, CEO

High Wire Networks

Tel +1 (952) 974-4000

Email contact

Investor Relations:

Ronald Both or Grant Stude

CMA Investor Relations

Tel +1 (949) 432-7557

Email contact

Media Relations:

Susanna Song

VP of Marketing and Communications

High Wire Networks

Tel +1 (952) 974-4000

Email contact

Tim Randall

CMA Media Relations

Tel +1 (949) 432-7572

Email contact

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/54aef8a7-ad6e-45df-9e26-43a67b902054
Investors can contact the law firm at no cost to learn more about recovering their losses

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Portnoy Law Firm advises Gaotu Techedu Inc. (NYSE: GOTU, GSX) investors that a lawsuit filed on behalf of investors that purchased(Gaotu or the Company) (NYSE: GOTU, GSX) securities between March 5, 2021 and July 23, 2021, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period").

Investors are encouraged to contact attorney Lesley F. Portnoy , by phone 844-767-8529 or email : lesley@portnoylaw.com, to discuss their legal rights, or click here to join the case via www.portnoylaw.com . The Portnoy Law Firm can provide a complimentary case evaluation and discuss investors options for pursuing claims to recover their losses.

Gaotu is a technology-driven education company providing online K-12 after-school tutoring services in China. The plaintiff alleges that the company made false and misleading statements by failing to disclose that China was banning tutoring for profit in core school subjects, which would have a negative impact on Gaotu's operations, profitability, and securities value. This news caused Gaotu's share prices to fall by over 63% on July 23, 2021. Additionally, a Financial Times article revealed that executives at GSX Techedu cashed out shares worth up to $119m just three days after China's ban on tutoring for profit was announced, while the same block of shares would be worth only $4m on November 6, 2021.

Please visit our website to review more information and submit your transaction information.

The Portnoy Law Firm represents investors in pursuing claims against caused by corporate wrongdoing. The Firms founding partner has recovered over $5.5 billion for aggrieved investors. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

Lesley F. Portnoy, Esq.

Admitted CA and NY Bar

lesley@portnoylaw.com

310-692-8883

www.portnoylaw.com

Attorney Advertising
John Dumelo returns to Ayawaso West Wuogon Parliamentary Seat race

Gifty Owusu-Amoah Showbiz News Feb - 27 - 2023 , 12:44

Popular Ghanaian actor, John Dumelo has disclosed his intentions to contest the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency parliamentary seat on the ticket of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

In a Facebook post yesterday, February 26, the father of two said he took the decision after extensive consultation with his family.

After an extensive consultation with my God, my family and our party faithfuls in Ayawaso West Wuogon! Thiss the second coming, he posted.

Already, fliers of Dumelo is out and it is quite interesting that he will be competing against his friend, Phred Nuamah, who declared his intentions earlier in February.

John Dumelo

John Dumelo ran a successful campaign in the 2020 general elections against the incumbent Lydia Alhassan of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

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Even though the Ayawaso West Wuogon seat is thought to be a stronghold of the NPP, the actor gave a strong competition polling 37,778 votes against NPPs Lydias who polled 39,851 votes.

After threatening to contest the results and ask for a recount, John later rescinded his decision and Ms Lydia was declared winner.

The NDC opened nominations for its Presidential and Parliamentary elections on Wednesday, February 22.

Since then, a number of prominent people in the party including former President John Dramani Mahama and Kwabena Duffour have officially declared to join the Presidential race.
Professor Jonathan Narh Ayertey @ 80!

Brig. Gen. Dan Frimpong (Rtd) Opinion Feb - 27 - 2023 , 16:53

On Saturday, February 18, 2023, a small group of family and friends met at the Trinity Theological Seminary Church, Legon, for the Thanksgiving Service of Professor Jonathan Narh Ayertey on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

As would be expected for such an accomplished academic, dignitaries who attended the function included Justice of the Supreme Court, Prof. Henrietta Mensa Bonsu, and former Vice-Chancellors of the University of Ghana, Prof, CNB Tagoe and Prof, Ernest Aryeetey, as well as retired academics such as Mr Kofi Siabi-Mensa and former Registrar, Mr Teddy Konu, from Legon.

An interesting prelude to the Thanksgiving Service was the dedication to God of the two newest baby grandsons of Prof. Ayertey.

This was done by Rev. Professor Kwabena Asamoah Gyadu of the Trinity Theological Seminary, who presided over the function, with beautiful religious music provided by Dr Patrick Addaquay, a lecturer in Music at the University of Ghana, Legon.

Prof. Ayertey

An indigene of Nuaso near Somanya in the Yilo Krobo District, Prof. Ayertey was born at Seseamang on February 9, 1943.

He attended the Presbyterian Boys Secondary School (PRESEC) then located at Krobo-Odumase.

After his undergraduate Studies at the University of Cape Coast, he studied at the Imperial College, University of London, UK where he obtained a PhD in Entomology in 1976.

After a long period of teaching at Legon, he rose to become the Dean of Graduate Studies and Master of Akuafo Hall.

On retirement, he became the Dean of Academic Affairs at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Teshie, Accra.

Currently, Prof. Ayertey continues to serve Ghana as the Chairman of the Governing Council of the newly established University of Environment and Sustainable Development (UESD), Somanya.

He is a member of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Homily

Preaching the homily which he titled Thanksgiving, Rev. Prof Asamoah Gyadu chose his text from Philippians 4: 4-6 which in the New International Version (NIV) states as follows:Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again: Let your gentleness be evident to all.

The Lord is near.

Do not be anxious about anything but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Explaining the text, Prof. Asamoah Gyadu stated that giving thanks was important for a number of reasons.

Firstly, expressing thanks shows gratitude.

In showing gratitude, a beneficiary shows appreciation for something received from or done by a giver.

It also shows that a beneficiary does not take a givers action for granted. He reminded all to give thanks to God all the time.

Secondly, giving thanks eliminates bitterness.

This is because ingratitude often creates bitterness, the result of non-appreciation.

The giver feels unappreciated and therefore bitter and resentful.

He commended the children of Professor Ayertey for their love and support for their parents, tacitly referring to the Commandment, Honour your father and mother, so that your days may be prolonged in Exodus, Deuteronomy and Ephesians.

Prof. Asamoah Gyadu lamented that unfortunately some children renege on this biblical injunction, and do not honour their parents.

Tributes

In a glowing tribute, classmates of Prof. Aryertey at PRESEC, Krobo Odumase, attested to his outstanding leadership which culminated in him being appointed the head prefect of PRESEC in their final year.

Speaker after speaker spoke about Profs extraordinary leadership ability. Professor Henrietta Mensa Bonsu extolled the virtues of Prof. when she worked closely with him as a senior tutor of Akuafo Hall, Legon, where Prof. was the Hall Master.

Affectionately calling Prof. Ayertey Master, the Justice of the Supreme Court stated that Prof. would always be her Master.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. CNB Tagoe, talked about a personal experience with Prof. Ayertey which eventually led to his confirmation from an acting Vice Chancellor to the substantive VC of the University of Ghana.

His family, wife, children and grandchildren all spoke of what an outstanding human being he was, who would sacrifice his all for his family, community, friends and all who needed help.

In his reply, Prof. Ayertey said it was so gratifying hearing such kind words while he was still alive, and not as tributes when he was dead.

Discussion

Prof. Ayerteys comment took me back to my September 2022 article Give me my flowers when I can still smell them!

In it, I stated thus: As Bob Cole said, multitudinous platitudes heaped during Thanksgiving Services mean nothing to the deceased as they lie stiff in the chop-box as a little boy called his grandfathers casket.

While they are alive, let us give deserving individuals the recognition, praise and honour for their contributions to Ghana, or humanity, and also to encourage the younger generation to make sacrifices!

As Ghanaians, let us learn to eschew the cancer of not appreciating ourselves and therefore not celebrating the successes of fellow Ghanaians.

Let us stop aiding foreigners in destroying our environment through illegal logging of rosewood, mining (galamsey) and fishing (saiko) etc.

To Prof. Asamoah Gyadu, thank you for reminding us of the virtue of respect to parents/adults, which has run out of supply!

To Professor Jonathan Narh Ayertey, thank you for your service to Ghana and humanity!

Congratulations on your 80th birthday and God bless you!

Leadership, lead! Fellow Ghanaians, wake up!

The writer is former CEO, African Peace Support Trainers Association, Kenya, & Council Chairman, Family Health University College, Ghana.
91% qualified BECE candidates placed  Education Ministry

Daily Graphic Feb - 27 - 2023 , 07:45

The Computer School Selection and Placement System (CSSPS) has facilitated the placement of 492,437 students, representing 91 per cent of 538,399 candidates who qualified as of yesterday morning.

They were placed in their Senior High Schools (SHS) and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) schools of choice.

This is an improvement against the 372,721 (69 per cent), which did so through automatic placement a couple of days ago.

The Press Secretary to the Education Minister, Felix A. Baidoo, who disclosed this to the media yesterday, explained that 119,716 candidates used the self-placement system for the selection of their choice of school.

He was upbeat that the remaining nine per cent would go through the process so they could enrol in their choice of schools, which would open across the country today.

The press secretary also praised the personnel of the resolution centres for the swift handling of challenges brought to their attention.

Commendation

Mr Baidoo also eulogised the education minister for the prudent measures put in place to ensure that anxious parents and their children did not waste much time at the resolution centres.

He added that as an institution that was human-centred, there was no way it would not come across challenges, but the swiftness with which the education minister strategised to curb the challenges is worth commending.

BECE results

The West African Examination Council (WAEC) released the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) results on January 25, 2023.

According to WAEC, out of the 547,329 registered candidates, 538,399 candidates qualified to be placed.

A total of 372,780, representing 69.24 per cent (69.24 per cent) of the qualified students, were automatically placed in one of their choices.
Cocoa industry under threat - illegal miners destroy rehabilitated farms

Shirley Asiedu-Addo Feb - 27 - 2023 , 08:07

The countrys cocoa industry is facing one of its biggest threats ever as illegal gold miners continue a major onslaught on cocoa farms, including those recently rehabilitated under a national programme.

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) had warned that the industry could head for a disaster if the illegal activities were not checked.

Raising the alarm, the Executive Director of Cocoa Health and Extension Services, Rev. Edwin Afari, said the National Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme being undertaken by COCOBOD at a cost of about GH4.8 billion was under severe threat from illegal mining (gamalsey) activities.

Recently, I was around the Boinso area in the Aowin municipality of the Western Region and for about 36.5 hectares that we did, they have cut down all of them for galamsey, he told journalists in Cape Coast last Friday on the margins of a ceremony to award 15 visually impaired cocoa farmers from the Central, Western and Brong Ahafo cocoa regions for their immense contribution to cocoa production.

He said the situation had gone from bad to worse over the past 10 years, and consequently, appealed to the Minerals Commission to refrain from giving mining concessions to miners in cocoa growing areas, while urging all stakeholders to help curb the negative impact of galamsey on cocoa production in the country.

Rev. Afari stated that illegal mining activities were alarming in the Western South cocoa region, including the Wassa Akropong corridor, and parts of the Ashanti Region including Manso Adubia, Antoakrom, and Anyinam in the Eastern Region where a lot of hectares of juvenile cocoa farms had been destroyed.

Rehabilitation programme

On September 24, 2020, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo launched the National Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme at Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region, with the objective of rehabilitating farms affected by the Cocoa Swollen Shoot Virus Disease (CSSVD) which had become unproductive.

The programme, which had earlier been successfully piloted in some of the worst CSSVD-affected cocoa growing areas had since been expanded to all other cocoa growing regions.

Under the programme, COCOBOD bears the full cost of the two-year-long rehabilitation process which involves the cutting of the diseased trees, treating the farms and replanting with disease-tolerant, early bearing, high-yielding cocoa varieties.

In addition, COCOBOD gives GH1,000.00 per hectare to each farmer whose farm is affected by the disease, while in the case of tenancy, both the affected tenant farmers and their landowners are compensated.

Maiden awards

The awards ceremony, the first of its kind, was organised by COCOBOD with support from the Agricultural Manufacturing Group Limited (AMG Ghana) and Mondelez Cocoalife International, all companies operating in the cocoa value chain.

Aged between 50 and 78 years, the farmers have been working for 15 to 60 years, with seven of them still active.

Each of them received six bags of fertiliser, two pairs of Wellington boots, two machetes, chocolates and other cocoa products, and an undisclosed amount.

One of the awardees, Kofi Esuon, was however honoured posthumously.

Efforts hampered

Rev. Afari said the project to rehabilitate swollen shoot-affected cocoa farms and moribund cocoa farms were being derailed by galamsey activities.

We havent even accounted for the harvesting that will be coming. It is just the investment; the compensation that we give to the landowners and farmers; planting of plantain suckers, cocoa trees, extension services, among others, he further stated, adding all the work we have done in there has gone to waste.

Dramatic change

On a larger scale, Rev. Afari indicated that many forest areas where cocoa was grown had been taken over by illegal mining activities.

He stated that apart from the rehabilitated farms, illegal miners were buying out huge tracts of land meant for cocoa farming for illegal mining.

Even if you dont sell your farm to them, they dig around it, preventing you from accessing the farm, he stated.

Stringent measures needed

He said if stringent measures were not taken to reverse the situation, national cocoa volumes produced could be significantly affected.

When we lose several hectares of cocoa we have planted, Ghana is going to suffer, he stated.

He indicated that another area of concern was the ageing cocoa farmer population, which according to surveys in the seven cocoa producing regions, averagely hovered around 55 years.

That, he noted, did not augur well for the sustainability of cocoa production.

Rev. Afari encouraged other professionals to enter into cocoa farming, saying whether you are a doctor, engineer, nurse, development expert, you can venture into cocoa farming.

Production

Touching on production figures, he said: We did 1.47 million tonnes last two years but last year was not good because of the weather and so we came down to about 683,000 tonnes.

This year, he said COCOBOD was targeting 850,000 tonnes and, hopefully, move on to a million or more next year.

Rev. Afari called on other stakeholders including farmers, chiefs and the media to support efforts at promoting the economic value of the farms, which had more lasting economic value than selling the land to illegal miners.

Disadvantaged farmers

Rev. Afari said the award initiative was to appreciate disadvantaged cocoa farmers for their continuous contributions to the cocoa industry and to encourage them to give of their best.

He commended the awardees for their strength of mind and resilience in the face of challenges and for contributing their quota to national development.

If you work diligently with your heart and mind, that is a special kind of sight, he stated.

The executive director indicated that this year, COCOBOD would focus on cocoa pruning, undertake pollination and pest control exercises to help increase the countrys production.

Increase production

The Director, Agronomy at COCOBOD, Samuel Asare Ankamah, stated that the awards would ultimately encourage the increase in productivity.

The Central Regional Chief Farmer, Nana Kwesi Ofori, who chaired the function, said the perseverance and commitment of the visually impaired farmers in the face of adversity was commendable and urged other farmers to take inspiration from their works to do more.

He expressed the hope that the initiative would not be a nine-day wonder but would be sustained to encourage even more farmers with disabilities to produce more.

Gratitude

Kwesi Adu, who spoke on behalf of the awardees, thanked COCOBOD for the gesture.

Another awardee, Vida Boakye, called for subsidised inputs to help them increase production.
Mining firms should undertake legacy projects  NAELP Coordinator

Daily Graphic Feb - 27 - 2023 , 07:09

The Coordinator for the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme (NAELP) has made a clarion call on mining companies to undertake legacy projects that will culminate in the socio-economic transformation of Ghana.

Speaking during a meeting with the management of the Goldfields Ghana Ltd last Friday, the Coordinator, Dr Louise Carol Donkor, advanced the need for companies to embark on projects that would honour and contribute to the development of communities and leave a lasting impression on Ghana.

She said undertaking viable and responsible projects in communities would not just spur the growth of such communities but also create a long-lasting and unique bond between the company and community that would ensure the smooth operations of the firm.

Dr Donkor stated that an avenue where mining firms could make a lasting and sustainable impact was by coming together to build a Mining Museum and also contribute to the development of the Gold Souq, a marketplace for gold, where the youth could undertake artisan jewellery making.

The NAELP coordinator also stated that a good impression would also be made in the communities through the rehabilitation and reclamation of destroyed lands and providing employment along the value chain of their operations.

Collaboration

Dr Donkor, who also visited FGR Bogoso Prestea Mines, Anglogold Idupriem and Chirano Mines, implored the companies to collaborate with the NAELP to rehabilitate and restore some degraded lands that could be used for alternative livelihood sources and also work towards livelihood options along the value chains of mining.

She observed that prior to the establishment of the NAELP, large-scale mining companies had been making huge investment in their communities with the aim of providing alternative sources of livelihood and developing them and that her presence was to explore ways those investments and CSR projects could be scaled up to augment the governments efforts of establishing other economic outlets for persons who hitherto engaged in illegal mining.

We want to learn about what you have been doing in terms of CSR and the forecast for the future. The idea is that the government cannot do it all so we want to build some collaboration on mutual interests , she added.

Dr Donkor further called for a comprehensive study into Ghanas mining architecture to ascertain local representation in the large-scale industry and how it can be improved.

The Community Affairs and Public Relations Manager of the Gold Fields GH Ltd, Florence Ansere-Bioh, stated that since its arrival, the Gold Fields had remained committed to the growth of communities within its catchment areas.

She welcomed the offer by the NAELP to collaborate with her outfit to create sustainable and valid opportunities for Ghanaians living in mining areas and to seize the opportunity of an exhibition platform to tell their success stories.
Nyinaku trial adjourned over misunderstanding with lawyer

Justice Agbenorsi Feb - 27 - 2023 , 19:14

The Economic and Financial Crime Division of the High Court in Accra has adjourned the trial of former Chief Executive Officer of defunct Beige Bank Limited, over a misunderstanding between the accused and his lawyer.

Michael Nyinaku has been charged at the court, presided over by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, for allegedly stealing GH1.21 billion of depositors money from the bank.

He pleaded not guilty to 43 charges of stealing, fraudulent breach of trust and money laundering when he mounted the dock yesterday.

A Chartered Accountant with accounting and auditing firm, KPMG, who is the prosecutions principal witness, Julius Ayivor, has given his evidence in chief and is currently being cross-examined by Nyinakus lawyer, Thaddeus Sory.

He was expected to resume the cross-examination today (Feb 16), but he was absent in court when the case was called.

Nyinaku informed the Court that there had been a misunderstanding between he and his lawyer.

Details of the matter was not given in open court as judge was briefed in her chamber.

The case was subsequently adjourned to March 10,2023.

Prosecutions facts against Michael Nyinaku

The facts as narrated by a deputy Attorney-General, Mr Alfred Tuah-Yeboah were that on August 1, 2018, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) revoked the banking licence of Beige Bank and placed it in receivership.

He said a review of the financial and other records of the bank conducted by the Receiver and his team identified a number of suspicious and unusual transactions, which were, subsequently, reported to the law enforcement agencies for investigations.

He further told the court that investigations revealed that between 2015 and 2018, Nyinaku, as CEO of the bank, used various means to transfer huge sums of depositors money to companies related to him and for his personal benefit.

Between 2017 and 2018, the accused person caused the transfer of 10,071 fixed deposit accounts held with Beige Bank in which various customers placed a total of GH448.6 million to Beige Capital Asset Management Limited (BCAM), without the knowledge and consent of these customers. BCAM is a limited liability company wholly owned by The Beige Group Limited (Beige Group), an entity which in turn is wholly owned by the accused, he said.

Mr Tuah-Yeboah said investigations also revealed that Nyinaku between the year 2017 and 2018, caused the transfer of 35 fixed deposit investments of 23 customers of Beige Bank totalling GH141,042,348.92 to the Beige Group, a company wholly owned by him.

Investigations further revealed that some time in March 2018, the accused person caused a fictitious second account to be opened in the name of First Africa Savings and Loans (FASL), an existing account holder with Beige Bank, without the knowledge of the board and management of FASL.

The accused person then caused the transfer of GH320 million from the accounts of various Beige Bank customers into the bank account of BCAM held with Beige Bank, he added.

He noted that the GH320 million was, subsequently, transferred from the BCAM account held with Beige Bank into the fictitious FASLs account that had been opened in Beige Banks books on the instructions of the accused.

Between March 2018 and August 2018, he said GH21.1 million out of the GH320 million was transferred from the fictitious FASLs bank account to some two individuals and 10 companies, nine of which were related to the accused person, on the instructions of the accused person.

Again, between 2015 and 2017, he said Nyinaku through the use of payment vouchers, caused the sum of GH1.4 million of depositors funds lodged with Beige Bank to be paid to himself and other persons.

Investigations also revealed that the accused person, through the use of payment vouchers, emails and memos, caused a total amount of GH20.6 million of depositors funds lodged with Beige Bank to be transferred to a number of companies and individuals for his benefit.

These transactions, the deputy A-G said were recorded in a general ledger account of the bank described as Shareholders Account.

Additionally, between 2016 and 2017, the accused person, through the use of payment vouchers, caused a total amount of GH141.7 million of depositors funds lodged with Beige Bank to be transferred to a number of companies and individuals for his benefit.

Between 2017 and 2018, the accused person, through the use of payment vouchers, emails and memos, further caused the sum of GH118 million of depositors funds lodged with Beige Bank to be transferred to a number of companies and individuals for his benefit, Mr Tuah-Yeboah said.

These transactions, he said, were also recorded in a general ledger account of the bank described as the Beige Group Account.

He told the court that investigations established that the money dishonestly appropriated by Michael Nyinaku from the defunct Beige Bank remained unpaid as of August 1, 2018, when the banks licence was revoked by the BoG.
President Akufo-Addo, Bawku Naba renew commitment to lasting peace in Bawku

Daily Graphic Feb - 27 - 2023 , 07:03

The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and the Overlord of the Kusaug Traditional Area, Naba Abugrago Azoka II, have renewed their commitment to amicably resolve the security situation in Bawku.

At a meeting at the Jubilee House last Friday, President Akufo-Addo said ensuring peace in Bawku remained a priority of the government.

Hence, the relevant authorities would continue to work closely with the Kusaug Traditional Authority towards achieving that objective, he added.

The President further reiterated assurances that any development likely to undermine the peace and security of the area would be swiftly dealt with in accordance with the laws of the State.

President Akufo-Addo expressed appreciation to the Bawku Naba for the leadership shown in the prevailing impasse and assured him of the governments unwavering commitment to ensuring lasting peace to the Bawku enclave.

Context

The meeting comes on the back of heightened tensions in the Bawku municipality following the recent enskinment of one Seidu Abagri at Nalerigu on February 15, this year as rival Chief of Bawku.

Government has, however, via a statement issued by the Ministry of Information on February 15, 2023, condemned the action.

The statement assured the residents of the Bawku municipality that any development likely to undermine the peace and security of the area would be swiftly dealt with in accordance with the laws of the State.

The Bawku area has featured prominently in security discourse in recent times due to violent clashes that have ensued between Mamprusi and Kusasi youth, resulting in the death of some residents and the destruction of property.

The security community has taken the issues in the Bawku area in the Upper East Region seriously due to the likelihood of the area being exploited by terrorist elements in neighbouring Burkina Faso to launch attacks in the country.

I stand for peace

The Bawku Naba stressed his commitment to exploiting pacific dispute resolution avenues towards restoring lasting peace to Bawku.

Pacific methods for dispute resolution include negotiation, inquiry, mediation, conciliation, arbitration and judicial settlement.

Abugrago Azoka also commended the government and the various security services for their swift intervention as well as ongoing efforts to maintain calm in the area.
Rev. Wengam takes over as 7th Assemblies of God General Superintendent

Emmanuel Bonney Feb - 27 - 2023 , 06:53

The Lead Pastor of the Cedar Mountain Chapel, Reverend Stephen Yenusom Wengam, has been inducted as the General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God, Ghana, at a colourful ceremony that attracted hundreds of worshippers, clergymen, family, friends and other stakeholders.

The well-organised induction service, which was also the occasion for the commissioning of the new Executive Presbytery Officers of the Assemblies of God, Ghana attracted guests from the country and abroad.

It was so well attended that the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre (AICC) could not accommodate all attendees, compelling the organising team to arrange seats outside and erect giant screens to enable them to join in the service.

Election

Rev. Wengam, together with the new Presbytery Officers who were elected on August 5 last year, takes over from Rev. Professor Paul Frimpong-Manso, and thus becomes the seventh General Superintendent of the church, following in the steps of forebears such as Rev. Nyamela Panka, Rev. Simon B. Asore, William W. Dontoh (all deceased), and Moses S. Sumaila.

The new Executive Presbytery Officers of the Assemblies of God, Ghana are Rev. Dr Gordon Tito Agyei, Assistant General Superintendent; Rev. Dr Ernest Birikorang, the General Secretary and Rev. Dr Simon Abu Baba, the Treasurer.

Some of the personalities who graced the occasion are former President John Dramani Mahama, a member of the Council of State and former Chief Justice, Georgina Theodora Wood (both members of the church); the Archbishop of the Perez Chapel International, Charles Agyinasare; former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Opoku Onyina, and queenmothers and members of the church.

The President of the Africa Assemblies of God Alliance, Rev. Barnabas Mtokambali, inducted Rev. Dr Wengam and the Executive Presbytery Officers into office.

In his first speech as General Superintendent, Rev. Dr Wengam said the new administration would continue from where its predecessors left off, with a divinely inspired strategy anchored on Micah 4:1 to shift, grow and transform the church.

The strategy, he said, would be underpinned by an agenda that had as its capsule the "Six Rs - Reach, Rebuild, Restore, Reform, Reposition and Rebrand".

Rev. Wengam said the church would aggressively disciple the country and unreached nations, and prioritise the welfare of the needy and rural pastors.

"Another element of this agenda is massive human capital and infrastructure development. The highlight would be the construction of an iconic state-of-the-art Assemblies of God Centenary Village (an international convention centre) to mark the 100th anniversary of Assemblies of God Church in the country.

Corruption, holiness

Rev. Wengam mentioned what he said were the chronic difficulties in tackling corruption, illegal mining, environmental bankruptcy, despondency, dishonesty and other forms of indiscipline in the country and prescribed holiness as a solution to those problems.

Citizens steeped in holiness will not tell blatant lies, inflate prices of goods and services, falsify procurement figures, steal state funds, pollute water bodies, litter their surroundings, denigrate their neighbours, assassinate the character of their political opponents, do shoddy work, laze around during working hours or exploit their workers, he stated.

He emphasised that the spirit of holiness would definitely insulate the people against evil, catalyse them to excel and empower them to pick the nation up from its socio-economic challenges .

On behalf of the church, he invited all churches to join a crusade to infuse holiness in every spectrum of national life, since it was the most effective solution to societal decay and the growing challenges on all fronts.

Bi-partisan approach

Rev. Wengam said the church endorsed calls for a bi-partisan and a multi-stakeholder approach to tackle the country's current economic challenges.

Its stand, he said, was predicated on the fact that God, in His superior wisdom, did not make any individual or institution or political party a repository of wisdom.

"The Bible, which is our uttermost source of wisdom and infallible guide of conduct, states in Proverbs 15:22 that without counsel plans fail but with many advisors they succeed," he said.

Bawku

Commenting on the conflict in Bawku, Rev. Wengam, who hails from Bunkpurugu Paknatik in the North East Region, said the church was worried about the situation which "is potentially corrosive to Ghana's reputation as the most peaceful nation in West Africa and second in the whole of Africa".

He said no efforts should be spared at containing the hyper-sensitive and supremely complex situation which threatens to cascade into security challenges of unthinkable proportions.

Balanced utterances

Former President Mahama, who was the special guest of honour, called on members of the clergy to be balanced in their utterances irrespective of the government in power.

He said they should not be quiet when one government was in power and then be loud when another government was in power.

"We must be seen to be balanced, be non-partisan," the former President said, adding that members of the clergy must endeavour to always speak the truth to whichever government was in power.

Former President Mahama said the church did not only exist to pray for leaders and that it was also to offer suggestions and guidance to leaders.

The church did not hang in the air, it exists in society and whatever happens in society affected it, he stressed.

Mr Mahama noted that, for instance, the current economic crisis that Ghanaians were going through affected church congregations all across the country.

It was, therefore, necessary for the church to continue speaking out anytime it thought that things were not going on properly.

The former President commended the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) for its letter to the government to give suggestions about what should be done amid the country's economic crisis.

Mr Mahama charged Christians not to shy away from politics and that they should stand for elective offices and participate to create a sense of direction to progress and prosper the country.

Sermon

Preaching on the theme: One Giant Step for the Assemblies of God, Ghana, Rev. Mtokambali named baby steps, ordinary steps and giant step as the three kinds of steps, the giant step being the most superior.

He expressed the belief that the church had over the years moved from baby steps through to ordinary steps and that with the coming leadership, he could see the church in his spirit heading towards a giant step.
EC boss Jean Mensa still in Nigeria - EC

Getrude Ankah Nyavi Politics Feb - 27 - 2023 , 15:40

The Electoral Commission (EC) has reacted to claims that its Chairperson, Jean Mensa has been flown in from Nigeria to Accra to respond to Parliament.

She has been invited to appear in person in relation to a proposed Constitutional Instrument (C.I.), seeking to make the Ghana Card the sole identification document for future voter registration.

She was expected in Parliament last week but was absent.

In a statement issued Monday, the EC explained that the invitation from Parliament arrived at a time she was already out of the jurisdiction and was in the Nigeria for the 2023 Elections.

EC boss Jean Mensa still in Nigeria

We wish to state that contrary to the news item that the EC chair has returned to Ghana, the chairperson is still in Nigeria. She has not returned to Ghana. the Commission's statement issued on Monday (February 27, 2023) said.

Mrs Jean Mensa is in Nigeria for the 2023 Elections which was held last Saturday and results collation is still underway.

Some media reports had suggested that Mrs Mensa had to cut short her trip in Nigeria as part of the Elections in that country and travel back to Ghana to respond to Parliament's invitation.

The National Democratic Congress Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson Nelson Daferamekpor had for instance in a tweet on Saturday said she has been flown in from Nigeria to Ghana.

Related: Parliament demands briefing from EC Chair on new voters C.I.

Mr Dafeamekpor for instance was not happy that the EC Chair was not personally present at the Committee of the Whole meeting in Parliament last Friday and described that as a "disrespect towards Parliament.

In the EC's statement it was explained that when the letter from Parliament inviting the Commission to brief the leadership of the House on the draft CI on the registration of voters on Thursday, the EC Chair, Mrs Mensa was already in Nigeria for the Elections.

At the time the chairperson had traveled to Nigeria at the invitation of ECOWAS/ECONEC for a peer exchange and election observation mission. That notwithstanding Dr Bossman Asare, Deputy Chair for Corporate Service attended the meeting together with other directors of the commission it explained.

It added that Surprisingly, the meeting was canceled as the Minority side insisted on the presence of the EC Chairperson at the meeting. The Chairperson upholds the institution of Parliament and will therefore not disrespect it in any way.

The fact remains that the invitation from Parliament was sent a day before the meeting at a time the chairperson was out of the jurisdiction. Had she been aware of the request prior to her travel, she certainly would have prioritized the meeting and attended upon the Honourable House., the statement said.
Nigeria elections will be credible  INEC boss

Mary Mensah Politics Feb - 27 - 2023 , 07:17

As Nigerians await the final results of last Saturdays presidential election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is on top of the troubling issues and is committed to delivering credible results of the polls.

The Commission acknowledged the challenges and confusion that characterised the voting process in some areas, and assured Nigerians and the international community that the issues would be addressed and the results announced will be the true reflection of the will of the people.

At a press briefing at the INEC headquarters in Abuja last Saturday, the Commission chairman, Chief Mahmood Yakubu, apologised for the delays in voting at some areas and explained that it was the first time they were using the electronic system and some of them did not perform optimally.

He said the election day was largely peaceful but there were reports of violence and ballot boxes being snatched by thugs while some voters complained of being attacked and chased away from polling stations.

The INEC Chief also announced that at least in five states, voting in some places did not begin until around 18:00 local time - one-and-a-half hours after polls were due to close, as a result of which voting was extended to ensure that all eligible voters had the chance to exercise their franchise.

Violence

He said there were also reports of tension in parts of Rivers and Lagos states, where some political parties asked their members to go to the centres where votes were being collated over fears that they were being manipulated.

Mr Yakubu said armed men had also attacked some polling units in the southern state of Delta and the northern state of Katsina, where six of the voter-card verification machines were taken away by thugs and the security managed to recover three. he added that efforts were being made to recover the remaining three.

He said two other Biometric Voter Accreditation System machines that were stolen by thugs, together with the three machines, were subsequently replaced and security boosted to allow voting to take place.

In the north-eastern state of Borno, Mr Yakubu said militant Islamists opened fire on electoral officers from a mountain top in the Gwoza area, injuring a number of officials.

Chief Yakubu said there was a clear omission of a candidate on the ballot paper so that election had been reschedule for March 11.

Counting of votes is still underway in the presidential election, widely thought to be the tightest since military rule ended in Africas most populous country in 1999.

Nigerians came out in their numbers to cast their ballots, with many of the youth who were first-time voters being the earliest to arrive at the polling units to cast their ballots.

There were long delays at some polling stations while reports of ballot box snatching and attacks by armed men were rife.

Many voters who had to endure the stress from malfunctioning electronic voting systems accused electoral officials of refusing to upload the results at the polling units as they were supposed to.

However, in areas where voting went smoothly, officials started posting results outside individual polling units, while the results from tens of thousands of polling stations around the country were being collated and sent to the electoral headquarters in the capital Abuja.

He also acknowledged the presence of Ghanas Electoral Commission Chairperson, Jean Mensa, and other electoral commission chairpersons from South Africa, Liberia, Tanzania, Niger, Namibia and Sierra Leone, among others.
The US Department of Transportation announced that the National Center for Sustainable Transportation (NCST), housed at the UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies (ITS-Davis), would receive $20 million to lead a group of seven universities studying transportation effects on the environment.

The funding was granted as part of the Department of Transportations University Transportation Center (UTC) program, which is awarding up to $435 million in grant awards for 34 UTCs. (Earlier post.) This years grant competition included a total of 230 applications, representing the largest number of applications ever submitted in the 35-year history of the UTC Program. The NCST is one of only five national transportation centers awarded under the UTC program, and the only one focused on the DOT research priority of Preserving the Environment.

The NCSTs $20-million grant ($4 million per year over 5 years) will allow researchers at UC Davis and other consortium member universities to focus on accelerating equitable decarbonization that benefits both the transportation system and the well-being of people in overburdened and historically disadvantaged communities. Research activities will concentrate in three domains: vehicle technology; infrastructure provision; and reshaping travel demand to accelerate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

The new grant also enables the NCST to expand its consortium. Texas Southern University joins the original members of the NCST consortium: California State University Long Beach, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of California Riverside, University of Southern California, and University of Vermont.

This round of funding marks the second time UC Davis has been able to renew its status as the host of the National Center for Sustainable Transportation.
As part of Nissan Ambition 2030, Nissan announced its plan to 23 electrified vehicles, including 15 EVs, by 2030. In response to changes in customer needs and the business environment, Nissan has revised its plan to accelerate electrification further.

Nissan will increase the number of models to meet the growing needs of customers for exciting and diverse electrified vehicles, introducing 27 new electrified models, including 19 new EVs, by fiscal year 2030. As a result, the electrification sales mix across the Nissan and INFINITI brands by 2030 is projected to increase to more than 55% globally, up from the previous forecast of 50%.

In line with the progress of electrified vehicle penetration, Nissans latest forecast for its sales mix of electrified vehicles sold in major markets in fiscal year 2026 is:

Europe: 98% (up from 75%)

Japan: 58% (up from 55%)

China: 35% (from 40%)

United States: 40% (EV only; by fiscal year 2030)

This will increase the global sales mix of electrified vehicles from the planned 40% when the vision was announced to more than 44% by fiscal year 2026.

To address rapid market changes in China, in 2024 Nissan plans to launch an EV designed specifically for the market. In Europe, Nissan will continue its robust electrification plans and will also explore stronger collaboration with the Alliance.

Nissan intends to further enhance customer experience through personalized services for a long term engagement. Nissan will boost its Connected Car Service strategy from enriched on-board content to enabling on-demand functions to cater to diversifying customer needs. The company aims to achieve this through Software Defined Vehicles and is already demonstrated by e-architecture currently installed in Nissan Ariya and will be available in more models in the coming years.
Global metal and mining major Rio Tinto has commenced a recruitment campaign for University graduates from Australia and New Zealand, as it seeks to attract the best and brightest minds across a range of disciplines, including engineering, data science, advanced technology, business and geology.

Commencing in early 2024, successful applicants will participate in an award-winning two-year Graduate Development Program designed to prepare graduates to lead, innovate and invent. The company is seeking to recruit approximately 150 Australian and New Zealand-based graduates out of a global program of 300 graduates. Last year, Rio Tinto welcomed 261 graduates globally, with more than half women and 130 based in Australia including 16% Indigenous Australians.

During the program, graduates will be inspired by futurists and external thought leaders from creative industries who will seek to spark their imagination and inspire them to tackle problems and create solutions in different ways.

Earlier this month, Rio Tintos Graduate Development Program won the Most Popular Mining & Energy Employer award in Australias GradConnection Top 100 Graduate Employer Awards for the second year in a row.

Rio Tinto is a global organization with 49,000 employees working across 35 countries. The global Graduate Program will see graduates based in 14 countries across more than 50 locations.
Coordinated development deepens across Jing-Jin-Ji region in 9 years

By Ma Jingjing and Chi Jingyi (Global Times) 08:47, February 27, 2023

Smart delivery robots work at the full Internet of Things container terminal of Tianjin Port in north China's Tianjin, Feb. 21, 2023. As the "maritime gateway" to the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Tianjin Port has been ceaselessly advancing the construction of a smart port, boosting the coordinated development of the region with fresh impetus.(Photo: Xinhua)

China's coordinated development of Beijing, North China's Tianjin Municipality and Hebei Province - a regional city cluster called Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, with its conveniently shortened form "Jing-Jin-Ji" - witnessed its ninth anniversary on Sunday.

Over the nine years, remarkable achievements have been made in the key fields of industrial upgrading, traffic management and environmental protection, bringing the region's total GDP to 10 trillion yuan ($1.44 trillion) in 2022, up 1.8 times compared with the figure in 2013.

In February 2014, China initiated a key strategy to coordinate the development of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei to create a model with a better economic structure, cleaner environment and improved public services.

A prominent task of the strategy is to move non-capital functions out of Beijing to treat "urban ills" such as traffic jams and pollution in the Chinese capital. Approximately 3,000 manufacturing and polluting enterprises in Beijing have been shut down, and nearly 1,000 markets and logistics centers have been relocated since 2014, according to data released by the Beijing Municipal Commission of Development Reform on Thursday.

Beijing's Zhongguancun, also known as China's Silicon Valley, is an important source of technological innovation in the Jing-Jin-Ji region. To date, enterprises based in Zhongguancun have set up more than 9,500 branches in Tianjin and Hebei. The total turnover of Beijing's technology contracts flowing to the two localities exceeded 210 billion yuan as of 2022, shows data from the commission.

Transportation development has been a basis for the coordinated development of the Jing-Jin-Ji region. A "one-hour traffic circle" has now come into being among Beijing, Tianjin and some cities in Hebei.

On December 31, 2022, a new expressway between Beijing and Xiong'an New Area in Hebei Province opened to traffic, reducing travel time from 80 to 50 minutes.

According to data released by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Statistics, the length of high-speed roads in the Jing-Jin-Ji region totaled 10,585.5 kilometers by the end of 2022, up 32.6 percent compared with the end of 2014, while the length of commercial railways totaled 10,848 kilometers by the end of 2022, up 38.3 percent compared with the end of 2014.

In addition, this coordinated development has also brought a cleaner and greener environment to people in the region. Last year, the average concentration of PM2.5, small particles of pollution, in Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei dropped over 60 percent compared with 2013.

The Hebei provincial government recently held a meeting, pointing to stepped-up efforts in coordination with Beijing and Tianjin in railways, roads, ports and aviation to build the province's advantage in logistics globally, to become a core industrial hub and agricultural product base, while joining hands with Tianjin to build a port cluster around the Bohai Sea, according to a statement on the provincial government website on Saturday.

Tianjin municipal government vowed in a meeting on Saturday that it will convert the strategic advantage of coordinated development of the Jing-Jin-Ji region along with Tianjin's advantages in industry, technologies and ports to sustainable momentum of Tianjin's through goal-oriented and problem-oriented approaches, Chen Yao, secretary general of the China Association of Regional Economics, told the Global Times on Sunday.

"While coordinated development in the region was focused on tackling Beijing's 'urban ills' between 2013 and 2022, authorities will shift the focus to improving its overall competitiveness to form a world-class city cluster by 2030 as the central government has planned," Chen said.

Compared with urban clusters in the Yangtze River Delta and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, there is bigger room to improve Jing-Jin-Ji's competitiveness, he told the Global Times.

According to Chen, the Jing-Jin-Ji region should continue to strengthen its connections in transport, information and other sectors to magnify the spillover effects of Beijing to drive industrial transformation and upgrading in Tianjin and Hebei Province, as well as increase innovation and industry coordination in the entire region.

By taking the opportunity of the high-quality integrated development of Beijing's Tongzhou district, and Sanhe, Dachang and Xianghe in Hebei, authorities should actively explore a path toward coordination in areas like city planning, public services and the business environment to build a new example for regional development in the new era, said Chen on Sunday.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Honor is having a launch party today, and we will see the announcement of the Magic5 series, as well as the global debut of the Magic Vs foldable. The company is hosting the event as part of MWC in Barcelona, and it will begin at 1:30 PM CET.

The company provided a live stream which we embedded below. The broadcast will begin 30 minutes earlier.

The Magic5 series is expected to bring at least two devices at launch - a vanilla Honor Magic5 and a proper flagship called Magic5 Pro. There may or may not be a Magic5 Ultimate with even mightier cameras than the Pro, although last year, Honor brought the Ultimate at a separate event and not in Barcelona.

We already reviewed the midranger Magic5 Lite being introduced earlier this month, which is an Honor X9a phone with a new name for European markets. The flagships, however, are likely to be true global devices for all markets where Honor operates. We dont know much about the specs of the upcoming phones, but we will follow the event as well and will report once everything is announced.
Lawmakers held a public hearing Monday for a bill that would exempt the value of solar panels from the islands property tax, but administration officials said solar panels currently are not taxed here and other places in the nation.

As a result, Sen. Sabina Perezs Bill 1 would not impact the revenue GovGuam collects in real property taxes, the Rev and Tax deputy director told lawmakers during the hearing.

The aim of Bill 1-37 is to help homeowners cope with the rising cost of living due to fuel and electricity costs by exempting additional real estate tax valuation, Perez said during the hearing.

She said a national energy study states homes with solar panels increase $20 in value for every $1 saved in energy costs.

At the individual level and community levels, Bill 1-37 is a measure that increases the resiliency of our community, Perez said.

According to the Guam Power Authority, Guam now has nearly 2,500 net-metering customers. Those are homes, businesses and other customers that installed and operate solar panel energy systems. Those systems generate about 31 megawatts of power per month.

Rev and Tax increases property taxes based on improvements to the land, according to Rev and Tax officials, who said the value of solar energy systems is currently not included for tax purposes.

The real property tax division currently does not assess taxes on such improvements, said Rev and Tax Deputy Director Marie Lizama.

Weve checked other jurisdictions, and what we have found is that, while the panels are included in the value of the property, the other jurisdictions dont currently  or they have a hold on  assessing real property taxes, Lizama said.

She said California is holding off on taxing the value of solar panels until 2025, and Texas does not assess additional property taxes because of solar panels.
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero has moved to block the resurrection of Guams 1990 abortion ban, which has sat unenforced in the legal code for decades.

Adelup and Attorney General Douglas Moylan are now on opposite sides of the case, despite both being named as defendants in the lawsuit that saw the ban permanently enjoined in the 1990s.

Public Law 20-134 would make providing an abortion a third-degree felony. A woman who obtains an abortion or even seeks one out would be guilty of a misdemeanor, while soliciting women for abortion would also be a misdemeanor.

Though it was deemed unconstitutional by the courts, the right to an abortion has since been backpedaled by the U.S. Supreme Court. Attorney General Moylan asked for the injunction on the ban to be dissolved early this month.

Legal counsel for Leon Guerrero, a longtime supporter of abortion access, filed an opposition to Moylans request last week.

Adelup wants Moylans motion denied and the case dismissed, court documents state.

The intra-government conflict is nothing new post-Roe v. Wade, with states like Wisconsin seeing their attorney general, governor, and legislature take differing stances on long-dead abortion bans.

Several local laws have been passed since 1990 which recognize abortion as legal, Adelups lawyers argue, which impliedly repeal the old abortion ban. That includes a law establishing reporting requirements for clinics that provide abortions, and another requiring parental consent before minors can obtain an abortion.

(Public Law) 20-134 cannot be harmonized with subsequent laws the Guam Legislature passed that regulate abortion care in Guam. As discussed, in the years since the Court entered an injunction against enforcement of (Public Law) 20-134, the Guam Legislature passed several laws that form a comprehensive statutory scheme covering the subject of abortion in Guam, and which conflict irreconcilably, the opposition states.

Additionally, they argue that the ban still presents a First Amendment problem, because it bars the solicitation of women for abortion, a form of speech.

That was one issue cited when the law was first enjoined, and Moylan hasnt shown any change to the law surrounding that issue, documents state.

The ban would make criminal any discussion between a woman and her doctor concerning the need for, and access to, abortion care, even though the law itself allows for the procedure, if its needed to save a womans life.

Moylan previously said that the rest of the law could stand, even if the ban on solicitation is struck down.
Guam High School will donate 227 interactive flat panels to George Washington High School, according to a news release from the Department of Defense Education Activity.

The donation will be made Thursday through the Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services Computers for Learning program.

Computers for Learning allows Department of Defense IT equipment to be donated to schools that have applied and been approved for the program.

George Washington High School administration and student representatives will visit Guam High School to accept the donation, according to the release.

The 227 interactive flat panels are all fully operational and have been returned to factory settings.

However, they are no longer covered under warranty by the manufacturer.

Guam High upgrades

We recently upgraded (interactive flat panels) at our Guam schools as part of DoDEAs life cycle replacement program, Dan Ray, DoDEA Pacific Region logistics chief, stated in the release.

Through (Defense Logistics Agency) Computers for Learning, George Washington High School is able to accept the excessed devices at no cost.
With national media reporting that the United States is expanding its troop presence in Taiwan, and intelligence officials saying Chinas military is preparing to invade that island, Guams strategic location is at the forefront of discussions once again.

Last week, Guam and the military bases here were mentioned in a CBS report about the increase in U.S. troops in Taiwan. In another story, the Wall Street Journal reported that the United States was more than quadrupling the number of American troops in Taiwan  from 30 to between 100 and 200  to enhance a training program for that islands military.

On CBS Face the Nation Sunday, CIA Director William Burns said Chinas President Xi Jinping has instructed his countrys military to be ready by 2027 to invade Taiwan. However, Burns also said Xi may be having second thoughts, given Russias experience in its war with Ukraine.

Taiwans democracy has received numerous displays of official American support as Beijing has become more aggressive, according to the Associated Press. President Joe Biden has said that American forces would defend Taiwan if China tries to invade.

Guam, with its large military presence, has become increasingly important as tensions grow stronger. For years, American military officials in the region have been warning about the threat from China.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero also has been highlighting the islands strategic importance in her quest to get funding for a new medical campus.

During a Feb. 9 hearing in Washington, D.C., the governor told the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources that it is in the nations interest to pay for a new hospital and other infrastructure improvements because it is broadly recognized that American bases on Guam will be a main target in any conflict with China.

If the governor is right about Guam bases being targets, that will remain true whether the federal government pays for a hospital or not.

Guams location has been strategically important for as long as the island has been a U.S. territory, and generally, when the island receives national attention, it is because of our military value.

Whether this motivates the United States to contribute to our well-being by helping us build a hospital remains to be seen.
Former Gov. Carl T.C. Gutierrez is the president and CEO of Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam Permit Czar, and chairman of the Governors Economic Strategy Council. Send comments or questions to GVB at

communityrelations@visitguam.org.
By William Schwartz | Published on 2023/02/26

In a recent interview with GQ Korea Magazine, Song Joong-ki denied all online rumors about his wife Katy Louise Saunders except for the name of the university she attended. Song Joong-ki claimed not to be bothered by the rumors at first, saying that this was a daily hazard for celebrities, and that it didn't change their love for each other. However, Song Joong-ki claimed to get angry as the rumors seemed to continue escalating.

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Song Joong-ki said that his wife calmed him down, told him this was no big deal, and these people weren't worth getting mad at. Song Joong-ki cited his wife as a positive influence on him, due to her ability to listen to nearly anything, making her a friend he can say anything to. Song Joong-ki also claimed to find her agreeable from a philosophical perspective, reenforcing his core beliefs, suggesting that she has a "me too" type of attitude in regard to his opinions.

According to Song Joong-ki, the reason for the seemingly abrupt marriage and pregnancy announcement was because he was about to start working again, citing a script reading for "My Name Is Loh Kiwan" as his immediate commitment following their civil ceremony. They ended up having to take a late dinner that night due to all the work. Song Joong-ki claimed to be a bit out of his mind that day.

Song Joong-ki also said that, though he had also mentioned this in previous interviews, having a family and a child has been the ultimate goal of his life. Though Song Joong-ki did not mention his ex-wife Song Hye-kyo, some have interpreted this as the closest thing the public is likely to get as to an explanation for the breakdown in their marriage. Song Joong-ki thus described his state of mind that day as being nervous but in a good state of tension.

Song Jong-ki is currently in Hungary for "My Name Is Loh Kiwan" doing location shooting. The film is expected to be released worldwide via Netflix later this year. Song Joong-ki has also already filmed "Bogota: City of the Lost" and "Hopeless" which are expected to be released in South Korean theaters some time this year.

Written by William Schwartz
Groupthink clearly prevailed when making the decision to join. Irving Janis who developed the concept years before warned that when decision makers look inward and invest in a perspective that is biased in favour of their own world view without sufficient recognition of other viewpoints, then it leads to poor and damaging decisions.

Military disasters and corporate failures line the road of groupthink.

However, all is not lost. Always look on the bright side of life, so sayeth Monty Python who would be well positioned to replace their Finland song with the NATO song embracing the present machinations of Finlands membership.

The fanfare surrounding the Government Report in April 2022 reassessing Finlands security situation by the Government made no recognition of the potential opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The same experts are still advising.

The second citizens initiative to Parliament called for NATO membership to ensure the preservation of human rights. Yet Finland has already extradited one man back to Turkey. The bright side: He was supposedly a criminal.

Finland has already given the green light for military export licenses for products to be sent to Turkey, although since 2019 it had refused to do so given Turkeys incursions into Syria. Yet back in 2019, Turkeys army pension fund OYAK became a major shareholder in the Finnish steel producer Miilux that manufactures steel for military armoured vehicles. The bright side: So maybe the Finnish government is saving Finnish jobs.

Finland, unlike other Nordic states has declared there are limitations on the right to protest. Bright side: Burning books is unintelligent anyway.

Stoltenberg was saying how easy it was going to be for Finland to join NATO. The Estonian PM said it would be easy. Finnish politicians said it would be easy. Foreign politicians in a chorus of self-adulation said the Finns should join. Experts said it would be easy. Political groupings were set up to coordinate the Finnish / Swedish pursuit of NATO membership. Finnish and Swedish Ministers were in front of the media professing their joint commitment to pursuing membership. They coordinated their declarations to join in a celebration of a new dawn breaking. Perhaps this was the end of Finlandisation, or perhaps the beginning of a new hyper Westernised form of the concept. Bright side: we will be bowing towards the US for a change.

Still, if polls are to be believed, polling shows that Finns support their leadership in this endeavour, despite the unfolding challenges for Finlands national security. Clearly the ordinary Finn is always looking on the bright side, after all they are the happiest people on earth!

Yet Finland has effectively alienated its Eastern neighbour. It is in the throes of abandoning its Western neighbour. How this contributes to strengthening Finlands geopolitical position is intriguing. All in the belief that NATO will be the cavalry on the horizon that will come to Finlands rescue. Yes, always look on the bright side. What happened with Nordstream might give an idea of what to expect.

Pulitzer Prize Winner Seymour Hersh has been muzzled by mainstream Western media when he reported that the USA, in collusion with certain other NATO members had blown up the Nordstream pipeline. In any other situation this would be seen as a declaration of war, by one ally against another - but it does not fit the narrative. So much for the cavalry coming to the rescue. Reporting that the USA blew up the pipeline is the biggest non-news in recent months. To think that the Russians would blow up their own pipeline when they can simply turn it off is mythical. The fallout from this is only just beginning.

But always look on the bright side: The Turks will probably acquiesce to Finlands membership, but with what price for Finland? Finnish decision makers and experts were not exactly transparent or willing to discuss the dark side of NATO membership and the absence of scrutiny has been evident by its absence.

Professor Kimmo Rentola talked about the Machiavellian astuteness Finland followed when dealing with the Soviets. Such Machiavellianism is now being used with another neighbour I wonder what adjectives the Swedes will use when Finland joins NATO and they are left in the cold, but I would advise them to always look on the bright side of life. After all, they may be saved from becoming a US subordinate.

HT

Graham Wood

Graham Wood has been a lecturer at the University of Helsinki for over thirty years. He gained his Executive MBA from Aalto and his PhD from the Faculty of Social Sciences at Helsinki University where he researched conflict and collective violence. He is also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in the UK.

This is a "Viewpoint" opinion column. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or position of The Helsinki Times. This column is not fact checked and HT is not be responsible for any possible inaccurate or incorrect statement in this article.
The Turku Court of Appeal in June 2013 sentenced Auer to seven and a half years and her former boyfriend to 10 years in prison for a slew of offences including two counts of aggravated rape, several counts of aggravated child sexual abuse, other sex crimes and assaults.

THE CHILDREN of Anneli Auer have retracted their testimonies in a case that saw their mother and her former boyfriend sentenced to lengthy prison terms for sexual abuse, reports Helsingin Sanomat.

Offences, the court concluded, had been committed against all four children of Auer.

Helsingin Sanomat on Friday reported that it has seen footage of the oldest child stating in an interview that the offences had actually not taken place, a statement that has been corroborated by her three siblings. The children said they fabricated their stories about offences committed by their mother and her boyfriend under pressure and persuasion from their foster parents.

The interviews were recorded by Markku Fredman, a lawyer who submitted an appeal to overturn both sentences with the Supreme Court on Friday. The appeal rests principally on the argument that the sentences were originally handed down largely based on the childrens testimonies.

Auer and her former boyfriend are both presently represented by Fredman.

The appeal also demands that all documents pertaining to the case be unsealed, as only the operative part of the judgement and a brief summary of the justification have been publicly available. The case was kept under wraps in an attempt to protect the children, but also the children are currently in favour of releasing the case documents, according to Helsingin Sanomat.

While both Auer and her former boyfriend have already served their sentences, the appeal demands that the ruling be overturned due to the shameful nature of the wrongful and widely publicised sentences.

Helsingin Sanomat pointed out that experts voiced their reservations about the childrens testimonies already during the trial proceedings, estimating that they contained signs of possible persuasion and pressure.

The children were called as witnesses in two separate trials against their mother, the newspaper added. While the Vaasa Court of Appeal ruled that their testimonies were not credible and did not corroborate an earlier murder charge brought against Auer, the Turku Court of Appeal dismissed some of the children's testimonies as unlikely and unrealistic but deemed the rest detailed and consistent when considering the sexual abuse case.

Auer was twice found guilty for the murder of her husband, Jukka Lahti, in Ulvila in December 2006. Both of the rulings, though, were overturned by the Vaasa District Court.

If the Supreme Court overturned the sexual abuse sentence, it would signal a serious moment of self-reflection for the Finnish legal system, Matti Tolvanen, a professor of criminal law at the University of Eastern Finland, told YLE on Friday.

The court, he said, will have to carefully mull over the relevance of the amended statements.

[The process] will also be affected by the evidence that was originally used to rule on the case in the district court. After all, we dont know if there was other evidence besides the childrens accounts, he said to the public broadcasting company.

Auer and her former boyfriend would likely also be entitled to substantial financial compensation if the ruling was struck down.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
The Finnish Parliaments Constitutional Law Committee on Friday voted nine for and seven against suspending its work to draft a statement on the bill, effectively postponing the long-awaited reform until at least the next electoral term.

THE ACT on the Sami Parliament will not be reformed this electoral term.

Helsingin Sanomat reported that the fate of the bill may have been decided by the unavailability of two deputy committee members from the Social Democratic Party, Johannes Koskinen and Merja Makisalo-Ropponen. Tuula Vaatainen (SDP) was absent from the vote, but, with both of her deputies unable to attend the meeting, she was replaced by Markus Lohi, a representative of the second-largest ruling parliamentary group, the Centre.

With the Greens, Left Alliance, Social Democrats and Swedish Peoples Party voting for continuing the work, the vote could have ended in an eight-to-eight tie. All of the Finns Party and National Coalitions representatives, along with two-thirds of the Centre, voted for suspending the work.

A Centre Party representative voting blank on the bill came as a surprise to the Social Democrats, Koskinen messaged to Helsingin Sanomat from Vienna, Austria, where he attended a plenary session of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).

Johanna Ojala-Niemela (SDP), the chairperson of the Constitutional Law Committee, said the committee ran out of time on what it regarded as a very important bill.

[The committee] concluded that it is not prepared to issue a statement within this time frame, she commented after the meeting according to YLE.

With the electoral term ending on Friday 3 March, the Constitutional Law Committee would have had to finalise its statement on the bill by 1pm on Friday, 24 February.

Prime Minister Sanna Marin (SDP) on Friday expressed her regret about the bills fate, arguing contrastively that the committee should have had the time to finalise its statement. The government presented the act to the Parliament by the deadline. There shouldve been no obstacles to discussing the act, she wrote on Twitter.

Minister of Justice Anna-Maja Henriksson (SFP) similarly aired her frustration with what she described as an unheard of decision not to issue a statement on the bill.

The Sami people wouldve finally deserved a new act on the Sami Parliament. From a constitutional perspective, there were no problems in the bill. Why did you block moving the bill to the session hall? she asked, directing the question to the Centre, Finns Party and National Coalition.

Heikki Vestman (NCP), a deputy chairperson of the Constitutional Law Committee, shifted the blame to the ruling coalition for presenting the bill so late in the electoral term and without even an internal consensus on its content.

The committee unanimously approved the view that, given its importance, this proposal was received too late from the government for the committee to have the time to consider it with due diligence. This proposal was advanced in accordance with what was possible as far as the committee is concerned, he said.

Marin decided to present the bill to lawmakers despite objections from the Centre. Because the Centre was opposed to the bill, it would have required support from opposition parties  most likely the National Coalition  to pass the Parliament.

The purpose of the reform is to promote the right of self-determination for the Sami. Parties, however, have struggled to find common ground on questions such as the eligibility criteria for voting and running in elections to the Sami Parliament. Also the previous two governments attempted to reform the act, to no avail.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
Pardee honors Garcia as Team Member of the Month

Environmental services manager Erika Garcia was honored as Team Member of the Month at Pardee UNC Health Care.

Erika Garcia, an environmental services manager known for going above and beyond her regular duties, was honored recently as Team Member of the Month at Pardee UNC Health Care, the hospital announced.

Garcia provides schedules and daily assignments to the environmental services team and ensures the hospital's compliance with infection control and waste management.

Garcia joined the team at Pardee 15 years ago "for the employment benefits but stayed because she found a great place to work," Pardee said in a news release. She says her favorite part of her job is the difference her team is making in patients' lives. She also enjoys encouraging her team and promoting the excellent work they do.

"Garcia does her job very professionally and is eager to learn," coworkers said. "She approaches all challenges positively, models Pardee's performance standards and serves as a role model for everyone in the organization." She receives compliments throughout the organization about how helpful and pleasant she is to work with.

The award also recognized Garcia for going above and beyond her regular duties to translate training modules to Spanish for her department and inviting other departments with non-English speakers to join in the project. She also helps translate additional information, such as the Pardee newsletter, into Spanish.
LEANDER Club and Shiplake College senior athletes competed at last weekends two-day GB rowing long distance junior trials in Boston, Lincolnshire.

Leander had five scullers racing over the 5km course on Saturday and Sunday.

In the single sculls, in difficult tailwind conditions, Leander boys raced well with Byron Richards finishing second overall, Nathaniel Gauden fourth, Freddy Foxwell 15th, Nicholas Didaskalou 17th and Archie White 22nd

The next day the athletes were put into double sculls based on their ranking in the singles.

Richards had another good race to finish first with Gauden fourth, Foxwell seventh, Didaskalou 10th, and White 14th.

Meanwhile, Jessica Weir finished fourth overall for Shiplake College in her single and then won the double sculls trial the day later. Emily Downing finished 22nd in her singles and eighth in the doubles.

The boys raced a series of three races over the weekend with different partners from different schools, before being given an overall ranking following their races.

Freddie Middleton finished first on strokeside, after being placed first, second and first in his three races. Ned Floyd finished fifth on bowside, Luke Byca sixth on strokeside, Fin Worthington 12th on bowside, Nick Summerfield 21st on strokeside and Harrison Harper 23rd on bowside.

Shiplake Colleges director of Rowing, Dave Currie, said: The competing pupils enjoyed some fantastic results over the weekend, marking a very positive step towards selection for Great Britain in the summer.
Leading property-wide culinarian efforts is Chef Gordon Maybury, Director of Culinary, who most recently held the same title at the award-winning JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Club in Aventura, Florida, where he oversaw the culinary program for the Turnberry Members Club, Tidal Cove Waterpark, and the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort.

Chef Maybury studied at the Dublin College of Catering and earned a Master Certificate in Essentials of Hospitality Management from Cornell University. Gordon started out doing a traditional apprenticeship in Dublin followed by a progression to Michelin-starred restaurants and hotels in Ireland. He has held positions in award-winning restaurants and hotels internationally from The Arizona Biltmore - A Waldorf Astoria Resort, PGA Resort Palm Beach, the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Peninsula Hotel New York, and Hyatt Regency Grand Cayman. Former host chef for the South Beach Wine & Food Festival Tribute Dinner, Chef Maybury collaborated on two cookbooks, participated in the Lufthansa Airlines Starchef program, and prepared "A Taste of Miami" menu at the prestigious James Beard House, earning rave reviews.

Chef Maybury has assembled a highly talented team of epicurean professionals including Garrette Gray as Resort Executive Sous Chef, Derrick Connor, Executive Chef of the Country Club, and Ivan Acevedo, Executive Chef of the Beach Club, joining The Seagate's already established chefs, Glenn Rogers and Mitzu Nozaki.

View Gordon Maybury's LinkedIn Profile

Gordon Maybury is a graduate of eCornell in Ithaca, New York - United States
The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) celebrated the best in hospitality advertising, digital, PR/communications, and integrated campaigns at the Adrian Awards Celebration on Thursday, February 23, at The JW Marriott L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, California. Taking place on the West Coast for the very first time, the Adrian Awards celebrated the most creative and successful campaigns in travel marketing and the people behind the work with more than 400 industry and agency executives on hand.

Tonight we recognize the best of the best of our industrys creative and innovative digital, advertising, and public relations/communications. We have had a lot of great entries from destinations this year with many winning high honors due to the strength of outdoor focused destinations & their ability to attract travelers during COVID. As we turn the page towards our future, we are excited, hopeful, and feeling inspired. It is the next great chapter in travel marketing. HSMAI President and CEO, Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA

HSMAI Adrian Award Platinum Winners 2022:

Division  Advertising

Sun Outdoors for Campfire Convos by Sun Outdoors

Discover Puerto Rico and agency R&R Partners for Live Boricua

Division - Digital

Missouri Division of Tourism and agency OBP for #ThatsMyMO: Social Media Takeover Brings MO to Life

Division - Integrated Campaign

South Dakota Tourism and agency Lawrence & Schiller, MMGY Global & Miles Partnership for Go Great Places - South Dakota Tourism

Utah Office of Tourism for Keeping Utah Forever Mighty

Wyoming Office of Tourism and agency BVK for WY Responsibly

Visit Idaho and agency Madden Media for Beyond Words

Marriott International and agency TeamOne for The Ritz-Carlton A Gift Like No Other APAC Campaign

Odyssey Studios and agency Miles Partnership for Venturing Out: Park2Park Season 1

Division - Public Relations/Communications

IHG Hotels & Resorts and agency ent! Marketing, Alison Brod Marketing + Communications for IHG Hotels & Resorts x Coca-Cola Unveil Santas Suite Retreat

Visit Seattle and agency Copacino Fujikado / C+C for Kissing in the Rain: Seattle Embraces Its Most Controversial Season

Visit California and agency MMGY NJF for Base CAMP California: A Golden Opportunity for the Golden State

HSMAI Adrian Award Presidents Award Winners 2022:

Division - Focus-Audience Marketing on New Platforms

Marriott International and agency MediaMonks for Moxy APAC Brand Campaign Moxy Universe, Play Beyond

Division - Focus-Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Marketing

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts for Women Own the Room: Wyndham Gives the Keys to Hotel Ownership to Women

Division - Focus-Recruitment Marketing

Hotel Association of Greater Montreal (HAGM/AHGM) and agency Nextmoov for Working in the hotel industry is packed with advantages!

HSMAI Adrian Award Best of Show Winner 2022:

Marriott International and agency MediaMonks for Moxy APAC Brand Campaign Moxy Universe, Play Beyond

A panel of senior industry executives selected the HSMAI Top 25: Extraordinary Minds in Sales, Marketing, Revenue Optimization and Distribution for 2022. Each Top 25 recipient was honored by HSMAI in a separate ceremony co hosted by Google and Questex Hospitality at The JW Marriott L.A. LIVE on Thursday night and during the Adrian Awards celebration.

HSMAI honored two industry leaders with the HSMAI Lifetime Achievement Awards. Peter Strebel, chairman of Omni Hotels & Resorts, received the Albert E. Koehl Award in Hospitality Marketing. Mary Wagstaff, partner and managing director at MMGY Wagstaff, received the Winthrop W. Grice Award for Hospitality Public Relations.

I am filled with so much hope for our industry. Its a great time for the travel and hospitality business, not only because of increased demand, but because of the talented people that want to be in our business and the new opportunities that exist for PR to be more effective and impactful than ever. Theres so much for all of us to learn today. Mary Wagstaff

I have been in the business for over 42 years and this industry has blessed me with so many gifts? You have got to love what you do, and I love this business. The best is yet to come! Peter Strebel

Thank you to this years Adrian Awards Celebration signature partner Ideas Collide and supporters Amadeus, JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live and Tambourine.

For more information about the Adrian Awards and the 2022 honorees, visit www.Adrianawards.com

About HSMAI

The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) is committed to growing business for hotels and their partners and is the industry's leading advocate for intelligent, sustainable hotel revenue growth. The association provides hotel professionals and their partners with tools, insights, and expertise to fuel sales, inspire marketing, and optimize revenue through programs such as the Marketing Strategy Conference, Adrian Awards, and HSMAI ROC. Founded in 1927, HSMAI is a membership organization comprising more than 5,000 members worldwide, with 40 chapters in the Americas Region. Connect with HSMAI at hsmai.org, HSMAI Facebook, HSMAI Twitter, and HSMAI YouTube.
Revenue totalled 1.76 billion in 2022, which is higher than in 2019

ADR reached 122, up 18.7% from 2019. Occupancy between April and December was 68%, six points below that of the same period of 2019

Pricing strategy and cost control unlocked reported EBITDA of 519 million, which is 94% of the 2019 figure

Net financial debt decreased to 308 million at year-end, down 260 million in the year

Madrid - NH Hotel Group, part of Minor International, generated 1.76 billion revenue in 2022, compared to 834 million in 2021 and 2.4% more than the 1.72 billion reported in 2019, the last full year before the pandemic. By quarter, revenue went from 234 million in the first quarter, 509 million in the second, 516 million in the third and 501 million in the fourth.

Pricing strategy and cost control unlocked reported EBITDA of 519 million, which is 94% of the 2019 figure, fully explained by the negative impact in the first quarter. Excluding IFRS 16 accounting impact, EBITDA reached 250 million, being between April and December 11.5% above the same period of 2019.

The sharp recovery in revenue and EBITDA enabled NH to report a Recurring Net Profit of 76 million in 2022, first positive annual result since 2019. Leaving aside the Omicron effect in the first quarter, between April and December 2022, recurring net profit amounted to 156 million, which is 35 million or 29% above the profit reported in the same period of 2019. Including net capital gains from asset rotation transactions, Total Net Profit reached 100 million in 2022, above the 90 million obtained in 2019.

The Company hopes that the resumption of larger-scale congresses and long-haul international travel as well as the ongoing reactivation in business travel at large corporations should offset any occasional slowdown in demand in the leisure segment.

Source: NH Hotel Group

Debt reduction

NH decreased its financial debt from 568 million at year-end 2021 to 308 million on 31 December 2022. That 260 million reduction is explained by the solid operating cash flow generation and the proceeds from asset rotation transactions during the year (68 million). The Groups liquidity position has enabled it to extend the deleveraging embarked on in 2021; specifically, in 2022 it repaid 200 million of the 250 million state-guaranteed loan signed during the pandemic. Moreover, in January 2023, the Company repaid the remaining 50 million of that syndicated loan so that its exposure to floating-rate debt has fallen from 47% to 25%, an additional strength in the event of potential increases in EURIBOR.

Stronger pricing

The recovery in the average daily rate (ADR) and in revenue per available room (RevPAR) more than offset the drop in occupancy in 2022 relative to 2019. In 2022, NH Hotel Groups RevPAR averaged 74, in line with the 2019 metric, despite the adverse impact of Omicron in the first quarter.

The upward trend in the ADR was more pronounced, going from 90 in the first quarter to 128 in the second, 130 in the third and 128 in the fourth. The ADR was 19% higher than in 2019 and excluding the first quarter that figure rises to 22%. Occupancy averaged 61% in 2022, penalised by the Omicron variant, which reduced it to 40% between January and March. Between April and December, occupancy averaged 68%, which is nevertheless still below the 74% recorded during the same period of 2019.

Spain recorded an ADR of 123 in 2022, 10% above 2019 levels, while occupancy averaged 69%, five percentage points below the 2019 figure. The growth in revenue was driven by an excellent performance in the secondary cities all year long and a significant uptick in Madrid y Barcelona from the second quarter on, thanks to the recovery in business travel.

Italys ADR increased 14% to 154, while occupancy was six percentage points lower, at 63%. Rome and the secondary cities sustained constant growth, whereas Milan kicked in from the third quarter.

In Benelux, the ADR amounted to 139, growth of 11%, while occupancy dropped 14 percentage points to 57%. Brussels and the second-line Dutch cities performed well, Amsterdam recovered more gradually, and congresses hotels sustained a more muted recovery.

In Central Europe, the ADR was 11% higher at 107, while occupancy was 18 points lower, at 55%. In that market, the main cities such as Berlin and Hamburg outperformed the secondary cities.

In Latin America, occupancy averaged 58%, down four percentage points, while the ADR increased 4% to 76. Argentina was the best performing market, Colombia and Chile performed well and Mexico was a little slower.

About NH Hotel Group, part of Minor Hotels

NH Hotel Group, part of Minor Hotels, is an established multinational hotel operator and a benchmark urban hotel chain in Europe and the Americas, where it runs over 350 hotels. Since 2019, it has been working with Minor Hotels on integrating all of its hotel trademarks under a single corporate umbrella brand with a presence in over 50 countries worldwide. Together they have articulated a portfolio of more than 500 hotels operating under eight brands  Anantara, Avani, Elewana, Oaks, NH Hotels, NH Collection, nhow and Tivoli  which between them provide a broad and diverse spectrum of hotel solutions in touch with the needs and desires of today's global travellers.
IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the worlds leading hospitality companies, strengthens its powerhouse status in the UK & Ireland with the addition of nine new hotels. These new additions illustrate IHGs commitment to delivering sustainable growth in the UK&I, its home market and largest market in Europe.

The properties span five of IHGs brands across its four collections: Luxury & Lifestyle Collection brand, Hotel Indigo; Premium Collection brand, voco hotels; Essentials Collection brands Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express; and Staybridge Suites, in its Suites Collection.

The addition of these hotels is a mark of confidence from both our owners and our guests for IHG brands in the UK, where we have a well-established presence already. Being able to grow right across our portfolio shows our relevance in this diverse and dynamic market. Whether its the promise of a memorable experience, the consistent quality or indeed our attractive loyalty benefits that keep guests coming back  we are honoured that they do. For our owners, their investment is supported by the power of the IHG enterprise, from our platforms and distribution, IHG One Rewards  one of the worlds largest hotel loyalty programmes, to the support of our strengthened in-market teams. Matt Walton, Senior Development Director, UK&I, IHG Hotels & Resorts

Luxury & Lifestyle collection

Cementing IHGs position as a luxury and lifestyle leader in the UK&I market, the addition of the following new Hotel Indigo properties brings an additional 350+ rooms to two key locations, in a country where the brand has 18 open hotels and six in the pipeline.

Hotel Indigo Exeter  now open to guests  brings 104 guest rooms and a roof top bar to the heart of this historic city. Situated a stones throw to Exeter Cathedral, the hotel is owned by Prydis.

 now open to guests  brings 104 guest rooms and a roof top bar to the heart of this historic city. Situated a stones throw to Exeter Cathedral, the hotel is owned by Prydis. Hotel Indigo London  K West Shepherds Bush was signed with owners The Landmark Hotel Group and will mark a halo property for the Hotel Indigo brand in London following significant investment. Expected to open in 2026 with 255 guest rooms in this vibrant West London neighbourhood, the hotel is well position for corporate and leisure travellers alike.

Premium collection

voco hotels success speaks for itself, with almost 10,000 open rooms globally since its launch in 2018 and recognition as the Worlds Leading Premium Hotel Brand at the World Travel Awards. More than 1,200 of those rooms are in the UK, across seven open hotels, and vocos rapid growth is due to owners attraction to the speed of conversion, efficient operating model and value of enterprise, and popularity with guests for combining the reassurance of a big brand with the informality and charm of an individual hotel.

The UK market is set to welcome voco Lythe Hill Hotel by the end of spring 2023  a 60 room, historic country house hotel set in 20 acres of picturesque Surrey countryside. Developed with owners Nq2 Hotels, the property is perfect for business, leisure, weddings and events, and a base for exploring the UKs South Coast.

Essentials collection

An estimated two people check in for a stay every second at a Holiday Inn brand family hotel worldwide. With 275 hotels open across the UK, the Holiday Inn brand family (comprising Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn Express and Holiday Inn Club Vacations) is a UK powerhouse. New to Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts are the following three hotels:

Holiday Inn Manchester Oldham is a 73-key property which opened following a full refurbishment, together with owner group Ailantus hotels, growing their Holiday Inn portfolio in the UK.

is a 73-key property which opened following a full refurbishment, together with owner group Ailantus hotels, growing their Holiday Inn portfolio in the UK. The new-build Holiday Inn Sunderland hotel opened its 120 guest rooms together with owner Cairn Group. The hotel is in the heart of the city centre with a signature Holiday Inn Open Lobby, making it a perfect stay for business and leisure travellers alike.

hotel opened its 120 guest rooms together with owner Cairn Group. The hotel is in the heart of the city centre with a signature Holiday Inn Open Lobby, making it a perfect stay for business and leisure travellers alike. Holiday Inn Manchester Airport is now open, boasting 280 guest rooms. P1 Hotels, the hotel serves the major UK gateway of Manchester airport and has been developed as part of the 800m Airport City project.

With 146 open hotels in the UK, Holiday Inn Express proves popular with IHG owners, investors and developers due to its resilience, ease of roll-out and appeal to mass audiences from leisure guests to business guests. Recently joining the brand are two new properties:

Holiday Inn Express Fleet brings 76 guest rooms together with owner Chowdhury, in a brand debut to the Hampshire town. Easily accessed by road and rail, the hotel will serve Fleet Business Park and Farnborough International Exhibition Centre.

brings 76 guest rooms together with owner Chowdhury, in a brand debut to the Hampshire town. Easily accessed by road and rail, the hotel will serve Fleet Business Park and Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. A conversion property being developed in the Grade II listed Theatre Royal with owner group Kennford Hotel Ltd, the 106-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites Halifax will be close to the towns famous market squares and train station when open by the end of 2026. The 106 guest rooms will include 37 suites with kitchenette areas.

Suites collection

With a global footprint of nearly 34,000 rooms, Staybridge Suites boasts seven hotels in the UK, in cities including Birmingham, Cardiff, Liverpool, Dundee, Newcastle and London. The extended stay brand offers studios, one- or two-bedroom suites with space, storage and flexibility.

The new-build Staybridge Suites Brighton hotel opened in the last fortnight with new owner partner Madison Cairn, an independent real estate investment, asset, and development manager. Close to the regional railway station and Brighton beach, the 101-room hotel is set to be a hit with guests seeking longer stays away from home.

IHG Hotels & Resorts has 348 open and 18 pipeline properties in the UK. In addition to the aforementioned, further hotels open and in the pipeline sit across brands including: Six Senses, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts.

*Numbers as at 31 December 2022

About IHG

IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.

With a family of 17 hotel brands and IHG Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a further 1,800 in the development pipeline.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 350,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG Rewards. For our latest news, visit our Newsroom and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

Tieran Bhuhi

+44 (0) 7976 178 485

IHG
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LGBTQIA+ musician Villano Antillano proves the power of fearlessness

Its no easy feat to be as fearless and uncompromising as Villano Antillano. But for one of Latin raps first transgender artists, its a necessity.

from Spotify For The Record

Villano has been carving out a path for herself and other queer artists in Latin rap, making music that brings her challenging, raw, unfiltered experiences to the forefront in a time when queer people still face so much adversity. And now, shes also one of Spotifys first GLOW artists.

Spotify GLOW is a new global music program celebrating and amplifying LGBTQIA+ artists and creators. Its our latest initiative through our Creator Equity Fund to support people of this historically marginalized community of voices and reassert our commitment to equity in audio. It ensures that queer creators, and their contributions to music and culture, are heard and honored year-round.

Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Villano generated early buzz with hard-hitting tracks such as Pajara, Culo, and Munecathe last of which was recorded with non-binary rapper Ana Macho.

In 2021, Villano enjoyed viral success with her feature in the single Vendetta, and went on to be on Bizarraps Bzrp Music Session, Vol. 51. This past December, she was a featured artist for Spotify RADAR US, and at the 2022 Latin American Music Conference, Villano was named one of its 2022 Wonder Women of Latin Music. She closed last year with the release of her debut album, La Sustancia X, a project that embodies the beauty and horror of growing up queer in the Caribbean.

For the Record sat down with Villano to talk about her music, her life as a trans woman, and what makes her GLOW.

Can you tell us a little about your journey into music?

Its been a long development. As a trans woman and a queer person, I didnt really have access to this world until I paved my way into it. I was just in the trenches for the longest time, so I feel like my chances for opportunities were maybe lower than they would have been for people that arent queer because were just shunned out of all these places. So, now I feel like I can actually get things like people on demand, or a team and resources, and Im just getting freaky with it now because Im much more comfortable. But it took me a while.

Growing up, did you have any queer artists who influenced you?

No, because they didnt exist in the public lens. We now know the story of Cristina La Veneno, who definitely changed the trajectory of my life when I found her on YouTube. But otherwise, I have very, very foggy memories of some slightly famous trans women who were public figures because they were so sexed up. I remember reading about them in the newspaper sometimes, but it was never treated with respect and dignity. There was no way they could have just been anything but a mockery on television and radio over here.

I would say, however, there were cis-het females who went above and beyond because they really f*cked with the queer community and the queer public. Those two would be artists like Iris Chacon, who was the pillar of everything aesthetic and one of my biggest references. I feel like shes one of Puerto Ricos biggest artists. And Ivy Queen, of course, because I feel like she really took it upon herself to give the community space within her crowd and her music.

How is music used to empower queer communities?

I feel that art is a mirror of society. Since the advent of civilization, music has always been present, and its tied to the art of storytelling and how culture is kept alive through tradition. So, I feel like those things are of very fundamental importance to humanity.

Music is also a mirror of our own experiences. I make music that makes me and other queer people feel empowered, and I created that feeling for myself because I needed it. I feel like we [the queer community] are a very empowered collective globally right now and were growing. Regardless of whatever is happening, were forcing people to take us into account. Were here and youre going to have to deal with it. Im glad were moving so far away from the patriarchy because it was about time!

What makes you GLOW?

Wow. A lot of things. You know, I feel like I take joy and find beauty in the little, ordinary things and in being at a point in my life where I can take a step back. Before I had access to this life and before I was a cemented and fully realized figure, I was just a poor girl from Bayamon trying to stay alive. I didnt even have access to the minimal and limited resources we have here. So the power for me to obtain these things makes me GLOW. My community makes me GLOW, my friends make me GLOW, and the fact that I can give them a life that we never thought we could achieve before makes me GLOW.

If you had one thing youd want listeners to take away from your music, what would it be?

Fearlessness. Im very into sci-fi and am reading the Dune novels, and I really just come back to that fear is the mind killer line. Because fear is the mind killer, and nobody should have the power to make me feel fear because nobody holds absolute power over me, you know? And I feel like I communicate that fearlessness into my music.

I feel like the life expectancy for trans people, specifically trans women according to the study, is around 35 years old. Im 27. How, or why, would I let that limit me? Its a fact none of us can escape, so I feel like, in a way, its what you do with that information. And what Im going to do is not buy into this idea or narrative that theres something wrong with me or that Im f*cked up or erroneous.

I feel like as a trans person who has medically and socially transitioned, nothing has gotten me closer to my consciousness than the fact that I have actually had to feel my existence from all spectrums possible. And thats no small feat; that only gives you power. The fact that I did that and I know exactly what I looked like when my body was full of testosterone and I know what it looks like now, three years into estrogen . . . everything Im seeing, feeling . . . everything changes.

You cant tell me thats not power.

Listen to Villano on our flagship GLOW playlist:

Its no easy feat to be as fearless and uncompromising as Villano Antillano. But for one of Latin raps first transgender artists, its a necessity.

Villano has been carving out a path for herself and other queer artists in Latin rap, making music that brings her challenging, raw, unfiltered experiences to the forefront in a time when queer people still face so much adversity. And now, shes also one of Spotifys first GLOW artists.

Spotify GLOW is a new global music program celebrating and amplifying LGBTQIA+ artists and creators. Its our latest initiative through our Creator Equity Fund to support people of this historically marginalized community of voices and reassert our commitment to equity in audio. It ensures that queer creators, and their contributions to music and culture, are heard and honored year-round.

Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Villano generated early buzz with hard-hitting tracks such as Pajara, Culo, and Munecathe last of which was recorded with non-binary rapper Ana Macho.

In 2021, Villano enjoyed viral success with her feature in the single Vendetta, and went on to be on Bizarraps Bzrp Music Session, Vol. 51. This past December, she was a featured artist for Spotify RADAR US, and at the 2022 Latin American Music Conference, Villano was named one of its 2022 Wonder Women of Latin Music. She closed last year with the release of her debut album, La Sustancia X, a project that embodies the beauty and horror of growing up queer in the Caribbean.

For the Record sat down with Villano to talk about her music, her life as a trans woman, and what makes her GLOW.

Can you tell us a little about your journey into music?

Its been a long development. As a trans woman and a queer person, I didnt really have access to this world until I paved my way into it. I was just in the trenches for the longest time, so I feel like my chances for opportunities were maybe lower than they would have been for people that arent queer because were just shunned out of all these places. So, now I feel like I can actually get things like people on demand, or a team and resources, and Im just getting freaky with it now because Im much more comfortable. But it took me a while.

Growing up, did you have any queer artists who influenced you?

No, because they didnt exist in the public lens. We now know the story of Cristina La Veneno, who definitely changed the trajectory of my life when I found her on YouTube. But otherwise, I have very, very foggy memories of some slightly famous trans women who were public figures because they were so sexed up. I remember reading about them in the newspaper sometimes, but it was never treated with respect and dignity. There was no way they could have just been anything but a mockery on television and radio over here.

I would say, however, there were cis-het females who went above and beyond because they really f*cked with the queer community and the queer public. Those two would be artists like Iris Chacon, who was the pillar of everything aesthetic and one of my biggest references. I feel like shes one of Puerto Ricos biggest artists. And Ivy Queen, of course, because I feel like she really took it upon herself to give the community space within her crowd and her music.

How is music used to empower queer communities?

I feel that art is a mirror of society. Since the advent of civilization, music has always been present, and its tied to the art of storytelling and how culture is kept alive through tradition. So, I feel like those things are of very fundamental importance to humanity.

Music is also a mirror of our own experiences. I make music that makes me and other queer people feel empowered, and I created that feeling for myself because I needed it. I feel like we [the queer community] are a very empowered collective globally right now and were growing. Regardless of whatever is happening, were forcing people to take us into account. Were here and youre going to have to deal with it. Im glad were moving so far away from the patriarchy because it was about time!

What makes you GLOW?

Wow. A lot of things. You know, I feel like I take joy and find beauty in the little, ordinary things and in being at a point in my life where I can take a step back. Before I had access to this life and before I was a cemented and fully realized figure, I was just a poor girl from Bayamon trying to stay alive. I didnt even have access to the minimal and limited resources we have here. So the power for me to obtain these things makes me GLOW. My community makes me GLOW, my friends make me GLOW, and the fact that I can give them a life that we never thought we could achieve before makes me GLOW.

If you had one thing youd want listeners to take away from your music, what would it be?

Fearlessness. Im very into sci-fi and am reading the Dune novels, and I really just come back to that fear is the mind killer line. Because fear is the mind killer, and nobody should have the power to make me feel fear because nobody holds absolute power over me, you know? And I feel like I communicate that fearlessness into my music.

I feel like the life expectancy for trans people, specifically trans women according to the study, is around 35 years old. Im 27. How, or why, would I let that limit me? Its a fact none of us can escape, so I feel like, in a way, its what you do with that information. And what Im going to do is not buy into this idea or narrative that theres something wrong with me or that Im f*cked up or erroneous.

I feel like as a trans person who has medically and socially transitioned, nothing has gotten me closer to my consciousness than the fact that I have actually had to feel my existence from all spectrums possible. And thats no small feat; that only gives you power. The fact that I did that and I know exactly what I looked like when my body was full of testosterone and I know what it looks like now, three years into estrogen . . . everything Im seeing, feeling . . . everything changes.

You cant tell me thats not power.

Listen to Villano on our flagship GLOW playlist:

https://open.spotify.com/embed/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX3LyU0mhfqgP?si=86d474a0a8a648f1&nd=1&utm_source=oembed

Share on:
Berkshire Planning Commission Examines Municipal Staffing Issues

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  It's no secret that local municipalities have been struggling to fill critical positions in the town and city halls, sometimes taking months to find the right candidates.

The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission is looking at how it can help.

"It was brought to our attention that communities are having an extremely difficult time hiring staff to fill various positions, whether it be town manager, administrator, treasurer, accountant, or a whole range of positions," Executive Director Tom Matuszko told the Regional Issues Committee last week.

"And so we've been trying to address this, or trying to figure out an approach on how to address it more correctly."

The committee has been discussing community sustainability for some time and its last meeting developed a strategy to determine how hard it was for towns to fill positions.

A survey was sent out to Berkshire County's 30 towns, as its two cities operate differently, and received responses from 21 of them. BRPC is still figuring out how to examine the cities.

Most of the responding communities have at least some vacant positions and more than 62 percent have had vacancies for 60 days or more.

Over the past three years, most communities have had one, if not several positions that took more than 60 days to fill and a majority had at least one position that took more than 120 days to fill.

More than half of the respondents have had five or more turnover positions.

And its not just paid appointed positions that are running short -- elected and volunteer boards are also wanting.

Sixteen of the 21 communities have vacancies on volunteer bodies and 25 percent reported difficulty filling seats on their select board.

Over the past three years, only four communities had board vacancies that took less than 60 days to fill but many towns have had long-term vacancies.

"Most of what we're hearing I think is what we can guess, is that they're just having difficulty with the volunteer pool," Community Planning Program Manager CJ Hoss said.

"There just aren't enough people interested, not enough people want to commit their lives to volunteer work, those volunteer positions that are elected, people don't want to run campaigns even if it's simply a yard sign campaign."

On the paid side, he saw similar issues when reviewing the data.

"Municipal positions used to be highly sought after and there's a lack of understanding of why people aren't interested in getting into municipal work," he explained, adding that people are less interested in positions that require after-hours commitments such as police officers.

Kent Lew, Select Board chair in the small town of Washington, pointed out that the state now requires people running for elected positions to open a campaign and file the closing, even if they don't spend any money.

"In our town, as in many small hill towns, we're lucky if even one person takes out nomination papers and it was on the ballot," he said.

Matuszko pointed out that there is a fair amount of accessible training offered by entities such as the Massachusetts Municipal Association and the state Division of Local Services.

He wondered if BRPC could track down the trainings and put them in one reference point so that people can find them.

"Maybe that's a role that we could play," he said. "Centralize those and maybe somewhere as a calendar of sorts that would have all different items, not just DLS but all different kinds of boards."

Eleanor Tillinghast of Mount Washington highlighted the delegation's push for Berkshire County representation on Beacon Hill.

"It seems like small towns are also not well represented and one of the things that might come out of this process that we've been engaged in, which is really looking at how we can help the towns, is to also say we should think about ways that we can go back to Beacon Hill," she said.

"Particularly in the Legislature and say the needs of the small town, such as what we have in the west, are going to be very different from those in the more metropolitan areas."

Matuszko said she is "entirely spot on."

"That's one of the reasons a few years ago that the Rural Policy Advisory Commission was established, to try to be a voice for small towns," he explained.

"And we have been trying to advocate that there be a statewide office of rural policy that would really be in the governor's ear and try to relate all of the different impacts that small towns would feel among the different secretariats."

Housing was also brought up as an issue.

Mary McGurn, who lives in Egremont, feels that housing needs to be addressed so that recruited candidates have a place to live.

"We are working on the problem but this is not immediate," she said. "This is long term and until that is solved, all of the training, everything that we do is going to work against us because we cannot provide affordable housing or the talent we want to place in municipal positions."

This has been a common topic of conversation and effort at the BRPC and across the county.

Matuszko reported that he submitted a Community One Stop for Growth application for a Berkshire County municipal employee pipeline that would develop advancement and apprentice programs and an educational campaign on the value of municipal service.

The One Stop application reports a budget of $100,000 and aims to establish a municipal training program in fall 2023 with training in early 2024 and possible recruitment or placement soon after.

Outcomes include a greater public awareness of the value of municipal public service, an increased likelihood that those ending the workforce would choose municipal service, and an increased value of municipal employees already working by investing in their skill set and future opportunities.

BRPC is currently using District Local Technical Assistance funds to advance this effort and followup activities would be supported by DLTA as well.
The owner of the Adams Theater has purchased the Topia Inn with two other investors. PreviousNext

Adams Theater Owner Buys Topia Inn

ADAMS, Mass.  History is repeating itself at the Topia Inn under its new owners and operators Yina Moore, Kate Chen and Dimitrios Kolaxis.

Moore, owner of the Adams Theater, and the previous owners Nana Simopoulos and Caryn Heilman have taken similar paths in opening the Adams Theater and the inn.

Simopoulos and Heilman purchased the theater and opened it in 2005 as the Topia Arts Center, doing some of the initial restoration work. Two years later, they opened Topia Inn on Pleasant Street as an organic and environmentally conscious operation.

The new owners, as Pleasant St Holdings LLC, purchased the property on Jan. 18 for $600,000. They are working with local designer Beau Barela, who owns Hearts Pace tea shop in North Adams, to reconceptualize the design.

Simopoulos and Heilman traveled the world interacting with artists who participated in the design of each of the rooms' world themes, such as the African, Moroccan, Native American, and the Greek rooms.

"I'm a composer. I write music and I write world music. In other words, I take samples of instruments and melodies and rhythms from different parts of the world and I blend them together to create something that's original," Simopoulos said. "For me every room was like a song. It was like a composition."

Heilman wanted to bring the world to her while also making the rooms comfortable for their patrons.

Moore, Chen and Kolaxis also want to make each room have its own theme but rather than depicting different parts of the world they want to showcase the Berkshires.

"This is kind of the approach you want to take is that this inn will be a project of collaborating with some of the local talents that we identify and take it to the next level from where Nana and Caryn started," Moore said.

They are currently putting together a team of designers and people in hospitality management who can be at the site.

Simopoulos and Heilman have been very involved in assisting Moore in the turnover.

"During this transition, Nana has gone far beyond what any seller would do. I think that's shows how much she cares about the inn and the theater, in terms of sharing information, sharing vendors ... she's part of this in the sense of spirit," Moore said.

The inn is currently offering a special rate because of the redesign until the end of June.

The former ski lodge has been part of the community's redevelopment, becoming an integral part of the area's growing cultural attraction.

While on the way to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Arts, Simopoulos' friend John Worth informed her of the existence of a vacant theater.

He did not know much about it, so they called the town's Community Development Office and discovered it was for sale.

"So we thought OK, maybe we could do this. We could get our friends together and get a community going and help the town bring this back to life," Simopoulos said.

Like the previous owners, Moore first focused on the Adams Theater, purchasing and opening it in 2021. She was not yet comfortable financially and confidence wise to also own the inn.

"Over the years Nana and I have been talking about the inn, but I wasn't feeling comfortable taking on another project unless there is more financial commitment and some other expertise that can come and help me because I don't come from a hospitality background," she said.

When her friends expressed interest in investing in both the inn and the theater she decided to put together a collaborative team.

Like Moore, the previous owners opened the theater first while renovations of the inn were taking place.

"The theater to us was an opportunity for us to be able to revitalize ourselves, revitalize our work, and revitalize the town. It just seemed like an incredibly wonderful project," Simopoulos said.

They opened the Topia Cafe first, providing a place where their friends and fellow artists could come and perform

"We met all these great artists from the area and they would come and do performances and we wanted to extend that into the theater. We did that for a while for about 10 years, we had performances in the theater," Simopoulos said.

After renovations to follow Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design guidelines and to make the building more eco-friendly, they opened the inn on Earth day, July 7, 2007.

Although they are New Yorkers, they wanted to be part of the growing cultural rejuvenation that was taking place in the early 2000s, spurred in North Berkshire with the opening of Mass MoCA.

"The other thing is that there's a really beautiful part of Adams that's kind of hidden and undetected by the world and so we gave outsiders the opportunity to discover this little gem of a town, which is sort of the last of the bigger towns in the Berkshires to really benefit from the cultural, the creative tourism," Simopoulos said.

While performing at Jacob's Pillow in Becket as part of the Taylor Dance Company, Heilman found the experience to be very unique because the area was able to combine both nature and culture.

In other areas, performers spent most of the time performing in concrete buildings in cities, away from nature. This combination is what makes the Berkshire so attractive, Heilman said.

"I think there's a way in which your experiences are different when you're in nature and you have that juxtaposition," she said.
Konstruk, the first-ever E-Hardware ng Bayan, celebrates its first year of providing businesses in the construction industry with an accessible online platform to buy and sell products. Konstruk has successfully navigated through the COVID-19 pandemic, responding to the shift in consumer preference from brick-and-mortar stores to digital e-commerce platforms.

Since its launch, Konstruk has made shopping for construction supplies easier for consumers, while providing a platform for merchants, manufacturers, and suppliers in the Home Improvement and Construction industry to expand their businesses online. As a result, brands such as Lucky Pro, Eurosa Building System, HUU, and Fineza have joined Konstruk to expand their online presence.

In the past year, Konstruk has delivered construction materials to various parts of the Philippines particularly in Metro Manila and plans to reach 50 other provinces nationwide to offer a range of features and tools helping businesses succeed in the competitive online marketplace. This includes customizable product catalogs, order and inventory management, secure payment gateway, advanced marketing, and SEO tools.

Konstruks user base has grown to more than 10,000 users in the first year, with a current engagement rate of more than 50% in the country. These testaments of growth prove its commitment to providing a convenient and accessible platform for businesses in the construction industry.

Expanding Outside Metro Manila

In the recent 2022 market research, the construction industry is expected to register an annual average growth of 7.3% from 2023 to 2026, supported by government investment in the transport, energy and residential sectors. Furthermore, the Philippine construction industry is said to be the governments key pillar of economic growth to bounce back from the pandemic with double-digit growth rates. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, this innovative industry has remained resilient and is projected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years.

In line with this projected growth, Konstruk remains true to its mission to be the top e-Hardware ng Bayan by offering an innovative e-commerce platform that is accessible and easy to use by consumers and with a comprehensive set of tools and features fit for their partner merchants.

Konstruk also aims to support local construction and home improvement businesses by onboarding provincial merchants that promote community selling  helping boost the local economy by empowering small businesses and promoting community engagement. It plans to onboard merchants in the future and become central office to manage micro Konstruk operations based on provinces. The company will collaborate with local government units (LGUs) in different provinces and launch their operations in key provinces outside Metro Manila, starting with provinces in Luzon, then Visayas and Mindanao.

"As we celebrate our first year in business, I am reminded that success is not just about achieving milestones, but also about the impact we make on people's lives. At Konstruk our mission is to make construction needs easier online, but our greater purpose is to empower people to build their dreams, one project at a time, Mr. Rommel Bulalacao, Konstruks Chief Executive Officer said.

Konstruk's success story is a testament to the growing trend of digital e-commerce platforms in the Philippines, particularly in the construction and renovation industry.

For reliable and convenient source of all construction, design, or improvement project needs, head on over to www.konstruk.ph.
This publication is designed to introduce the fundamentals of investing in the Indian market and includes a gu...
The Romantics quickly received a lot of love, demonstrating the overwhelming support for Yash Chopra and YRF.

The Romantics is also among the ten most popular television programmes in nine nations, including Bahrain, Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Mauritius, Pakistan, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates, amazing right?

The Romantics

The Romantics, a documentary series about Yash Chopra and YRF's decades-long influence on Indian pop culture, is so popular that Harvard University students will watch it, and the Film Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune, the nation's top school for studying cinema, has decided to include it in its curriculum.

The documentary series is part of the institute's winter film appreciation course, and students will watch, analyse, and discuss Yash and Aditya Chopra's cinema.

Also read: The Romantics Maker Reflects On Aditya Chopra's 1st Ever Video Interview For YRF Tribute Series

Smriti Mundhra confirmed the developments saying, As a former film student, I studied the work of auteurs from all over the world. It always bothered me that my peers and I weren't taught about the great filmmakers of Indian cinema. The Romantics is my attempt to shed light on the craft, journey, and global impact of one of our most revered directors, Yash Chopra, and the generation of filmmakers and moviegoers he influenced.

The Romantics

Smriti added, I'm so pleased to join two of the topmost institutes of the world  Harvard and FTII - for a screening and robust discussion of The Romantics with students and put Yash Chopra in his rightful place as one of the world's great auteurs.

Smriti Mundhra, an Oscar and Emmy-nominated director who previously worked on the Never Have I Ever franchise and Indian Matchmaking, returned to Netflix with The Romantics.

35 prominent film industry figures who have intimately collaborated with YRF throughout the course of its 50-year illustrious history will also be featured in this four-part docu-series.

In an exclusive interview with Indiatimes, Smriti Mundhra discussed roping in 35 celebs.

The Romantics

The director said, It sounds a little obvious but one thing I think that like really struck me is that all these big stars are at the forefront of the industry and apart of the history of Hindi film industry but they are also just like fans of films first and to talk to them on those terms was really interesting. Just talking about the films they grew up watching and their formative experiences with movies. It was great to hear them fan out over different films, stars and more.



You can stream The Romantics on Netflix.
A song that instantly makes you happy, Naatu Naatu is making people across the world dance to the tunes of MM Keeravani. The song from SS Rajamouli's RRR has been nominated for Oscars after winning a Golden Globe award.

The Naatu Naatu fever has caught the Korean embassy staff in India as well.

Dance and the world dances with you. Thank you #RRR, thank you #NaatuNaatu for winning at the #GoldenGlobes and showing us what Indias global brand should be: A country that can make people sing & dance together. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam  pic.twitter.com/4GihzD1k3b  anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) January 11, 2023

The staff was seen dancing to the song that highlights the spirit of dance and friendship and everyone including Prime Minister Narendra Modi is impressed.

PM Narendra Modi shared the video of Korean embassy staff dancing to Naatu Naatu

     -    



Do you know Naatu?



We are happy to share with you the Korean Embassy's Naatu Naatu dance cover. See the Korean Ambassador Chang Jae-bok along with the embassy staff Naatu Naatu!! pic.twitter.com/r2GQgN9fwC  Korean Embassy India (@RokEmbIndia) February 25, 2023

Modi called it a 'lively and adorable team effort'.

Lively and adorable team effort.  https://t.co/K2YqN2obJ2  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 26, 2023

Meanwhile, Ram Charan has said that he would love to perform Naatu Naatu at the Oscars!

"We would love to do Naatu Naatu anywhere that we are being appreciated, but not every place accommodates us to perform. But if were at the Oscars and theres a request, and theres time, why not? Well be more than happy to entertain our audience, who have given us so much. To do the whole number on the stage would be difficult, as it takes a lot of breath and energy. But definitely the hook step. Why not!" the actor told Letterboxd.

"RRR" star Ram Charan (@AlwaysRamCharan) dishes on "Naatu, Naatu" becoming the first song from an Indian film production to be Oscar-nominated for best original song. #GMA3 pic.twitter.com/tpfIPFqcDu  GMA3: What You Need To Know (@ABCGMA3) February 22, 2023

At the red carpet of the Golden Globes, Ram said, "My knees still wobble talking about it. Ya, it was what it is, it is a beautiful torture and look where it got us! We are standing here, talking to you today on this carpet, thanks to it."

After NAatu Naatu's Golden Globe win, PM Narendra Modi had congratulated the team.

We are honoured Sir Thank you very much.  rajamouli ss (@ssrajamouli) January 11, 2023





(For more news and updates from the world of celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment, and let us know your thoughts on this story in the comments below.)
As ChatGPT contines to take over the world of technology, Meta (parent company of Facebook) has announced a research tool called LLaMa that will also rival Google's LaMDA - a family of neural language models.

In a Facebook post on Friday, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said that language models "have shown a lot of promise in generating text, having conversations, summarizing written material and more complicated tasks like solving math theorems or predicting protein structures."



Unsplash

Meta joins AI chatbot race

For now, LLaMA is not in use across Meta services like Facebook and Instagram. According to Zuckerberg, the tech would be made available to researchers. Zuckerberg said that "Meta is committed to this open model of research."

Wondering what large language models are? Such AI systems learn and imbibe knowledge from large volumes of text available on the internet, based on which their responses get smarter and crispier. As is true for all AI algorithms, the more data such language models are fed, the better performing they are.

Also read: "Managers Managing Managers": Facebook Parent Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg Hints At More Layoffs

Reuters

ChatGPT was built by OpenAI, a startup that has received backing from Microsoft. Recently, Microsoft said that it would incorporate the text tool into its Edge browser and Bing search.

Unsplash

Google's parent company Alphabet also has a language model of its own called LaMDA based on which it has built a ChatGPT-like tool called Bard. Meta has dabbled in large language models earlier with OPT-175B and the controversial Galactica that was quickly rolled back.

Also read: Facebook's New AI Bot Thinks Mark Zuckerberg Is A 'Manipulative Bad Person'



What do you think the new arena of language model wars? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
I tried using ChatGPT to help with a common coding issue when working on CRM applications and merging customer data sources. I asked ChatGPT, Given two lists of names, write Python code to find near matches of the names and compute a similarity ranking. ChatGPT replied, You can use the FuzzyWuzzy library in Python to find near matches and compute similarity rankings between names. ChatGPT then displayed code to interface with FuzzyWuzzy and included examples to help demonstrate results.

Now, there are debates about how smart ChatGPT is, whether it can write secure code, and why it should attribute its sources. But ChatGPTs effectiveness is causing many people to consider how generative AI will change peoples creative work in marketing, journalism, the arts, and, yes, software development.

Generative AI, such as ChatGPT and AlphaCode, are sure to have an immense impact on how organizations develop applicationsfrom enabling faster and more efficient development cycles to optimizing customer experiencesover the next three years, says David Ben Shabat, vice president of research and development at Quali. As AI continues to develop, businesses will be able to use these models to optimize customer experiences, increase customer engagement, reduce customer service costs, as well as overall cost reduction.

Arjun Chandar, CEO at IndustrialML, adds, Generative AI tools will make it at least marginally more feasible to use machine learning for a broader array of applications across a larger number of domains.

ChatGPT already reached more than 100 million users, and Microsoft is embedding it in Bing and other Office applications. Other generative AI competitors in search platforms include Googles Bard, and developers can test code-generating AIs such as AlphaCode and GitHub Copilot. A wave of SaaS products, tech platforms, and service providers are integrating ChatGPT capabilities. For example, Gigster introduced ChatGPT integration support, and Equally AI launched Flowy, a ChatGPT-powered web accessibility platform.

Dont fear AI; leverage its capabilities

If youre a software developer or a devops engineer, you might experiment with generative AI tools and wonder what it will mean for your profession and how it will change your work.

Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT have caused a stir among the developer community, says Marko Anastasov, cofounder of Semaphore CI/CD. Some fear it will take their jobs, while others prefer to ignore it. Both attitudes are mistaken because, as weve seen with GitHub Copilot, a developer who integrates AI into their workflow can experience an incredible productivity boost.

Take my CRM exampleit saved me time by identifying a useful Python library and showing me a coding example. The process accelerated my discovery, but I would still have to do the work to evaluate the results and integrate the code into my application.

Generative AI lacks context

Remember when you installed your first Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant in your home, expecting it to be as smart and responsive as Star Treks computer? It helps you do simple tasks such as set alarms, add items to shopping lists, share the weather forecast, or update you on todays news, but its unlikely to answer more complex questions accurately.

Dan Conn, developer advocate at Sonatype, believes its important to understand the context of how AI algorithms are developed and trained. Since the technology is based on data and not human intelligence, sometimes the program can sound coherent, but it does not provide any critically informed responses, he says.

For now, generative AI can help fill gaps and accelerate implementing solutions within the software development life cycle, but we will still need developers to drive appropriate experiences. ChatGPT misses the ability to understand the human context of computing to do programming well, says Conn. Software engineers can add more details about the purpose of the software theyre creating and the people who will be using it. Its not just a bunch of programs sprung together with regurgitated code.

Shanea Leven, cofounder and CEO of CodeSee, says, Engineering requires a lot that AI cant replace, like context, making it near impossible for AI to load into a single model, train that model, and incorporate the predictive capability of humans who understand whats going to be necessary in five years. There are a lot of big picture decisions unique to different businesses that AI will simply never be able to handle.

Five years ago, I wrote a post asking, Can AI learn to code? Today, it can provide coding examples; tomorrow AI models might help engineers answer questions about architectures and design patterns. It is hard to see whether one AI can replace all the knowledge, innovation, and decisions that software development teams make when crafting delightful customer experiences and productive workflows.

A productivity tool like low code

Software development has many generational improvements in languages and platforms. Many tools increase a developers productivity, improve code quality, or automate aspects of the delivery pipeline. For example, low-code and no-code platforms can help organizations build and modernize more applications, but were still coding microservices, developing customer-facing applications, and building machine learning capabilities.

Suresh Sambandam, CEO of Kissflow, acknowledges, Just as low code and no code will not outright replace traditional developers and software engineers, OpenAI will provide useful tools that eliminate repetitive tasks and accelerate time to market for app development.

One paradigm shift is from keyword-based search tools to ones that process natural language queries and respond with useful answers. Sambandam continues, By entering queries in plain conversational language, ChatGPT can automatically generate boilerplate or suggested sample code for problems much faster than any developer can write and experiment with code from scratch.

Were going to see tremendous change, not only in productivity but in how we get our information faster, adds Leven. AI will enable developers to supercharge the repetitive decisions that engineers must make, such as generalized questions about a language.

Improving conversational applications

Developers must also consider how ChatGPT raises the bar on user expectations. The keyword search box in your app that isnt personalized and responds with disappointing results will need an upgrade. As more people are amazed by ChatGPTs capabilities, employees and customers will expect AI search experiences with natural language queries and apps that answer questions.

Generative AIs hold a ton of promise in search and customer service areas, says Josh Perkins, field CTO at Ahead. These models demonstrate the reality of complex natural language search and contextual memory, enabling answers to even nuanced prompts conversationally without a customer service representative, very reasonably and likely soon.

Generative AI can also improve workflow and support hyperautomation, connecting people, automation, and AI capabilities. I think about smart health applications, where doctors can ask AI questions about a patients condition, the AI responds with similar patients, and the app provides options for doctors that automate ordering procedures or prescriptions.

Generative AI technologies have a huge opportunity to be used to automate and enhance various aspects of application development and customer experience design, says Sujatha Sagiraju, chief product officer at Appen.

But using generative AI to drive systematic changes to workflows isnt easy. In the book Power and Prediction: The Disruptive Economics of Artificial Intelligence, the authors contrast the difference between point solutions (like finding code examples) with AI system solutions that will require more substantial transformations.

Sagiraju notes, Generative AI still requires real-person feedback for fine-tuning to ensure the model is working accurately. The data and humans behind these models will define their successes and failures.

Select optimal domains and test for quality responses

So, where can software developers leverage generative AI today? Its easy to see its usefulness in finding coding examples or improving code quality. But product managers and their agile development teams should validate and test their use cases before plugging a generative AI into their application.

The risk of an unmanaged AI producing inaccurate or incomplete content can, at best, be somewhat annoying, and in other cases can be incredibly costly, especially when used for customer service or when representing a brand, says Erik Ashby, head of product at Helpshift. Although initially there will be a temptation to let AI stand alone in generating content, such as an unmonitored chatbot, brands will quickly realize that to manage this risk, they need to employ a combined strategy where humans and AI work together.

ChatGPT is more than a shiny object, but like any new technology, software developers and architects will need to validate where, when, and how to use generative AI capabilities.
South Africa: SA has an action plan to get off the grey list

Government is determined to address the concerns raised by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as quickly as possible with the fundamentals in place to get off the grey list.

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa said government has gone through a rigorous process of addressing the issues that FATF has raised.

This comes after South Africa was put on a grey list last week by the FATF for falling short of certain international standards for the combating of money laundering and other serious financial crimes.

The FATF is a global body that aims to tackle global money laundering and terrorist financing. South Africa has been a member of FATF for the last 20 years due to its commitment to fight these criminal activities both at home and across the world.

As a country that both values and enforces the rule of law, the grey listing is an opportunity for us to tighten our controls and improve our response to organised crime. This will ultimately place us on a stronger footing to effectively fight these damaging and dangerous crimes, the President said.

President Ramaphosa said the country welcomed the intensified monitoring by FATF. Government has a focused action plan in place to address the remaining deficiencies identified.

Most of these deficiencies relate to the implementation of laws. For example, the country needs to be able to demonstrate, among other things, an increase in the investigation and prosecution of serious and complex money-laundering and terrorism financing.

This includes an increase in mutual legal assistance requests to other countries, an increase in the use of financial intelligence by law enforcement agencies, and the effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions.

Our action plan to address these deficiencies is aligned with the work we are doing to implement the recommendations of the State Capture Commission as outlined in our submission to Parliament in October last year, the President said.

President Ramaphosa said that like all countries, South Africa is dealing with the shifting sands of globalised crime and criminal syndicates. He added that the challenge facing authorities is to anticipate criminal innovation and to respond swiftly and effectively.

Since the dawn of democracy in 1994, the country has sought to build credible, independent institutions and implement effective laws to deal with complex financial crimes of this nature.

South Africa forged collaborative relationships with transnational entities and global bodies in the financial sector, including the FATF and Interpol.

During South Africas last regular mutual evaluation of its measures to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism, a number of deficiencies were identified.

The mutual evaluation was conducted in 2019, when the country was emerging from the state capture era, which had a particularly detrimental impact on institutions like the South African Revenue Service (SARS), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Hawks.

Since the results of the mutual evaluation were published in 2021, we have made great progress in addressing the identified shortcomings. Of the 67 recommended actions emanating from the mutual evaluation, we have successfully addressed all but eight strategic deficiencies.

For example, we have addressed significant weaknesses in our legal framework, through the enactment of amendments to laws on anti-money laundering and combating terrorism financing, the President said.

He added that the country has come a long way when it comes to developing world-class expertise, legislative reform and strengthening state institutions to combat complex financial crime.

We have restored credibility to key institutions like SARS and the NPA to enable them to fulfil their respective mandates. We have bolstered the powers of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) by establishing a Special Tribunal to recover public funds stolen through corruption and fraud, and an Investigative Directorate in the NPA to investigate serious corruption, he said.

Strengthening fight against crime and corruption

Last week, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced in the 2023 National Budget that additional funds will be allocated to the police, NPA, SIU and Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) to strengthen the fight against crime and corruption.

The President said one of the countrys most effective tools for combating money laundering and other financial crimes is the multidisciplinary Fusion Centre, established in 2020.

The Fusion Centre brings together bodies like the NPA, SIU, SARS, the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, State Security Agency and the FIC. Since its inception the work of the Fusion Centre has led to the preservation and recovery of approximately R1.75 billion in criminal assets.

It is noteworthy that the strategic deficiencies identified by the FATF do not relate directly to the countrys financial sector. This means that financial stability and costs of doing business with South Africa will not be seriously impacted by the grey listing, he said.

The President lauded the partnerships between government and the financial sector for playing a valuable role in efforts to address serious economic crimes.

The South Africa Anti-Money Laundering Integrated Task Force was set up in 2019 as a partnership between the banking sector and government regulatory authorities. Between the beginning of 2020 and the end of March 2022 successful interventions by the Task Force led to the preservation of criminal assets worth R86 million, the President highlighted.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-02-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Shanghai holds largest offline recruitment fair in three years as better-than-expected economic recovery boosts job market

By Xie Jun (Global Times) 08:59, February 27, 2023

Photo: Chen Xia/GT

Shanghai held the largest offline recruitment fair since 2020 on Saturday in a local shopping mall attracting more than 1,200 companies across the Yangtze River Delta region and throngs of job-seekers, as the country's faster-than-expected economic rebound following coronavirus policy optimization has given a big boost to the domestic job market.

The fair also dispelled criticism from the Western media which claimed China has a weak labor market, as both job-hunters, employers and officials told the Global Times on Saturday that they felt the domestic job market has rebounded a lot since this year.

At around 9:00 am, half an hour ahead of the recruitment fair opening, many job seekers were already lining up or making preparations for the event.

At 11:00 am, the Global Times saw that job-hunters were packed within the fair, with almost every stand having a long queue of people waiting to talk with Human Resources representatives.

Kong Lingyang, a 22-year old student at the Shanghai University of Electric Power, said that he has been seeking jobs online during the last term because of the coronavirus situation, which he described as "searching for a needle in a haystack," but this year the situation has improved a lot.

"I feel that there are many more job vacancies this year compared with the autumn recruitment season, while the atmosphere of offline recruitment season is also more active," he told the Global Times.

Photo: Chen Xia/GT

Another 44-year-old job hunter surnamed Xiao also told the Global Times that many recruitment channels were shut during the coronavirus, as companies focused their attention on survival instead of expansion.

"I received more calls from headhunters recently," he smiled and said.

The Global Times saw that a large proportion of employers on site are tech companies in fields like new energy, electronics and biology. Some of them plan to hire more than 3,000 new employees in the near term.

The fair also attracted several overseas companies including Starbucks, Bosch and Tim Hortons.

In total, 25,000 jobs offers were made, with more than 15,000 offered to new graduates, according to statistics from the Shanghai Municipal Human Resources and Social Security Bureau, which organized Saturday's job fair.

China's labor market has experienced fluctuations over the past three years because of coronavirus disruption, but signs of recovery have emerged on the market this year after the country optimized coronavirus management measures.

Official data showed that China held about 20,000 recruitment fairs between January 1 to February 5, with about 13 million job vacancies being advertised.

A number of overseas media outlets have hyped up China's unemployment situation recently, with some saying that employment anxiety is high in China.

The improving employment situation also mirrors China's faster-than-expected economic recovery this year, as companies are looking to expand their talent pool to match their expanding business scale.

"From organizing this recruitment fair, we feel that Chinese companies' development and social expectations are gradually recovering. This applies to almost all industries, although their speed of recovery may differ," Zhou Guoliang, director of the Shanghai Employment Promotion Center, told the Global Times on Saturday.

He also said that China's graduate volume is in line with domestic job market demand.

"The employment prospects for China's university graduates is definitely not that severe," he said.

Photo: Chen Xia/GT

Some companies' representatives also said that they feel a pickup in market demands this year, which pushed them to expand recruitment budgets.

One HR representative from Canadian coffee brand Tim Hortons told the Global Times that business operation has resumed to normal state at the company's stores in China, and they plan to open more stores this year.

"Our business trend is uprising and rebounding in China," she said.

An HR director surnamed Gu from Nantong Nuotai Biomedical Technology Co said that her company is planning to hire about 40 new employees this year, compared with about 30 last year.

"Since the coronavirus optimization, market demands in our industry has been rising, while our production facilities are also expanding, so recruitment will also climb," she said.

Gu also revealed that her company plans to participate in about 15 offline recruitment fairs this year, compared with only about two or three during the epidemic.

Meanwhile, some industries that have been hit hard during the epidemic have also started to hire new employees recently with change of business climate.

Travel company Spring Tour, for example, announced recently to kick start its spring recruitment season, the first large-scale recruitment campaign in the past three years.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Weve completed more than 83% of our home claims and materially finalised all our motor claims. We continue to work through the remaining repairs as quickly and safely as possible, with priority given to complex cases and vulnerable members, Sayers said. While we are tracking ahead of industry, we know it can take up to 18 months to fully recover from an event of this scale and appreciate this can be a long and difficult process for affected homeowners.
Insurance Business America (IBA) identified this years winners by inviting insurance professionals across the US to nominate exceptional specialist brokers and to describe the nominees standout professional achievements over the past 12 months, including their contributions to the financial success of their clients and business partners.
When Timmy Long was learning the guitar chords of a Christy Moore song in the Midlands Prison eight years ago he never, in his wildest dreams, imagined that he would one day be singing with his music idol on his own podcast.

Mere mention of the recent interview with the singing legend almost prompts him to break out in song. And with good reason.

I remember singing my brains out down in the cell and asking my brother to come in so I could ask him what he thought of my Black is the Colour. I was so passionate about it. And then, last week to have Christy down in the studio and to be able to sing that song with him, he says.

He cant quite believe the turnaround: It was a very emotional experience for me and it showed me how far I have come.

James Leonard, co-host of the hugely popular The Two Norries podcast, also rates the interview with Christy, their 141st episode, as a particular highlight.

Neither man can quite believe their growing popularity, but they are making the most of it because by sharing their experience, strength and hope, as they put it, they hope they can help others to get whatever help they need.

Their choice of the words experience, strength and hope is important. They echo those used in 12-step programmes of recovery but, more than that, they offer a perfect description of what Timmy Long and James Leonard are doing.

They do not want to dwell on their past experience of addiction and criminality; rather use it to show how they found the strength to pursue a different life and, in doing so, give hope to others.

As James says: We have this story that people say is inspirational. We know loads of people like us who are equally inspirational, if thats the word you want to use, but they never get the platform. We hope that by speaking on our podcast, we can give people who are feeling hopeless in their bedrooms, or elsewhere, a glimmer of hope.

That glimmer of hope can completely turn a persons life around. For James, it was a few words from a guard that helped him start his journey in recovery a decade ago. I was sleeping on couches and sleeping in sheds. I was overdosing and isolating. I had a close call with an overdose and a guard showed me a bit of concern and, out of that, I just thought Id give recovery one more try.

In December 2012, he rang a treatment centre and was admitted the following June. Since then, sobriety has opened up options he never thought possible. In the last decade, James has returned to university and qualified with a degree in youth and community work and a masters degree in Criminology. He has also been awarded a fully funded scholarship to pursue a PhD.

That is on hold for now as life has never been busier. He gave up his job earlier this month to devote himself full-time to The Two Norries podcast.

Though, podcast is too small a word for it as the duo have just sold out the Cork Opera House, again, for their live show in March. Theres a book in the pipeline too and they also give motivational talks to a wide range of groups, from youth organisations and companies to the prison service, schools and colleges.

Timmy Long, on the other hand, can trace the moment his life changed to St Stephens Day in 2011. I had a really powerful experience while in a cell in the Bridewell in Cork. I had this glimpse of awareness for the first time in my life. It was like everything in my life had led up to this moment in time.

He had been arrested earlier and, at first, the only thing that was going through his mind was how he was going to get drugs or drink. Then, this voice in my head just said to me, Is this how your life is going to be forever? I couldnt do it any more. I got up off the floor, jumped up on the mattress and cried myself to sleep. That was it for me.

The next day, he went to his doctor and his recovery began. It involved counselling, anti-depressants and a stint in a treatment centre. He still had a prison sentence to serve, but was so grateful to be able to spend two weeks sober at home with his now-wife Nicole and rekindle their relationship before he went to jail.

Prison proved to be a positive experience because, he says, it cosseted him in early recovery and gave him the supports he needed. He learned to read and write. He also went to counselling, worked with personal development groups and started to go to AA.

Thats where my journey of recovery started. I didnt even know my PPS number and I had never sent out an application in my life, he says.

Timmy now has an honours degree in construction management and runs his own property maintenance and construction company which employs people who are in recovery.

He is also halfway through the first year of a two-year masters degree in mindfulness at University College Cork.

If you had asked me 11 years ago what mindfulness was, I wouldnt have been able to tell you. And I probably would have laughed at you if you mentioned meditation. I didnt know what it was or how it could help you, he says.

Two Norries: "Its not seen as a masculine thing to talk about how you are feeling. Its not true; you can still be a mans man and look after yourself." Picture: Miki Barlok

Now he is perfectly at ease talking about how using his breath as an anchor helps him to cope with the difficult emotions that will always bubble to the surface after his experience of childhood trauma and an early life in addiction.

It also helps him to deal with issues he has had to face in sobriety. While in college, he found out he was dyslexic. The diagnosis came as a relief, he says. I thought there was something wrong with my brain. I thought I was stupid, but Im a visual learner.

Last December, he found out that he has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a condition that can make concentration and study difficult. He is still coming to terms with it, but says the diagnosis helps him to understand a lot of his early impulsiveness as a child and why he appeared to be so accident-prone.

Timmy Long and James Leonard continue to chat, taking in every subject under the sun from life/work balance, their surprise success as media stars, the coup of getting renowned addiction expert Dr Gabor Mate and psychiatrist Bessel van der Kolk to appear on the podcast, to their love of dogs.

James says dogs played a huge part in his recovery.

Addiction made me a kind of cold person. I think you have to be to survive that kind of life. When I came into recovery, I went over to the CSPCA dogs home in Mahon with my wife Gillian, partner at the time, and got a red staffie called Rusty.

He has had Staffordshire terriers since and has two dogs now, Skye and Zeus. They bring out your nurturing side, he says.

Timmy has two dogs, as well, Marley and Sara.

In all of it, though, its clear that both men feel the people who have helped them most in their respective recoveries are their wives.

James says his wife Gillian was the first to make him believe that university was there for him, if he wanted it. Once university became an option for me, my whole idea of who I was and who I could be changed. Home ownership, career  I had closed off all of those things. I had self-limiting core beliefs.

Having someone see your potential was a gamechanger.

Timmy says his wife Nicole never stopped believing in him, through thick and thin, and that helped him to start to believe in himself. She could always see the person behind the addiction, he says.

He says he is blessed to have her and their two children, Georgia (16) and Jay (11).

They both hope that The Two Norries podcast will help others to see the seed of potential in themselves. When listeners get in touch  and so many do that they have had to hire an administrator  they signpost them to the various available services.

That can be difficult, particularly for men, says James. Its not seen as a masculine thing to talk about how you are feeling. Its not true; you can still be a mans man and look after yourself.

The podcast aims to raise tough issues and talk about them in a way that is informative, sensitive, educational  and humorous. Both podcasters believe you can always have a laugh in the process.

But there is a secondary aim and that is to break down stigma. James explains: We want to get people in the wider community to think differently about people who are homeless, in prison or in addiction and to give them a bit more understanding and compassion. That aim to break down stigma and tired old stereotypes also explains the origin of the name of their podcast.

We are Norries and we are proud. People might associate a Norrie with someone on social welfare who wears a tracksuit. We are very proud to be from the northside of Cork city and we wanted to own it, says James.

And they certainly do that in style.
A teenager who was seriously injured after an assault in Dublin on Thursday has died.

A man was arrested for questioning in connection with the incident and a garda investigation is underway.
Protestors glued their hands to glass doors at the entrance to the offices of asset management company Blackrock, in Ballsbridge, Dublin yesterday over the company's investments in fossil fuels.

Check out our Sustainability and Climate Change Hub where you will find the latest news, features, opinions and analysis on this topic from across the various Irish Examiner topic desks and their team of specialist writers and columnists.

Up to 20 members of the Extinction Rebellion climate change action group rallied at the head offices of the company calling for divestment, claiming that the firm is escalating the environmental crisis.

Demonstrators carried large banners and placards saying Blackrock Divest from fossil fuel ecocide and spilled fake oil on the ground at the front of the building, along with red paper to represent blood.

Pasha Fedjukovs was one of two protestors who sat on the ground at the entrance and glued his left hand to the front door.

He told the Irish Examiner: Theyre investing in fossil fuels. Last Autumn, they said they are not going to stop, and thats outrageous, they are destroying our planet."

Gluing my hand is civil disobedience, Im blocking them, making it hard for them to do what they are doing and trying to get them to stop. Ill sit here all day if I have to.

Sitting next to Pasha was Sineaid Whelan who said: Ive glued myself to this building in an attempt to disrupt their day-to-day workings and to draw attention to the fact that out of 30 of the biggest asset management companies, Blackrock is the biggest in oil management.

"At this stage of the crisis, for them to still be investigating in fossil fuels is awful.

Sineaid Whelan with her left hand glued to the door of the Blackrock asset management company in Dublin. Picture: Alison O'Reilly

Their profits are going up and up, we still have time to change to get back on track. I am 19 and this is nonviolent disobedience, which we are planning on engaging more in, in 2023.

"There isnt enough pressure anymore on the system to change, so we will be doing as much as we can to convince people. I am not going to hurt my hand, but the gardai, if they are going to arrest me, will have to pull me away".

Manuel Salazar, spokesperson for Extinction Rebellion said they wanted to use tactics to make the Irish people wake up and listen to their message about the asset management firm:

They are investing heavily and actively in these fuels. It is against the climate goals here.

"We are doing a bit of disruption, we are letting them know we are here and we want to highlight attention about what this company is doing.

The gardai are here so far but they have not arrested anyone. We have the right to protest, so they will decide what they are going to do. This is just a tactic, we want the company to stop what they are doing.

"They are investing in a business that is destroying our collective future and making a profit from it.

A Blackrock spokesperson said that the money it managed belonged to clients.

"We provide choice to our clients, we seek the best risk-adjusted returns within the mandate our clients give us," they said.
Scores of Israeli settlers have gone on a violent rampage in the northern West Bank, setting dozens of cars and homes on fire after two settlers were killed by a Palestinian gunman.

Palestinian medics said one man was killed and four others were badly wounded in what appeared to be the worst outburst of settler violence in decades.

The deadly shooting, followed by the late-night rampage, immediately raised doubts about Jordans declaration that Israeli and Palestinian officials had pledged to calm a year-long wave of violence.

Palestinian media said some 30 homes and cars were torched. Photos and video on social media showed large fires burning throughout the town of Hawara  scene of the deadly shooting earlier in the day  and lighting up the sky.

Two Israelis were killed in the shooting (Majdi Mohammed/AP)

In one video, crowds of Jewish settlers could be heard reciting the Jewish prayer for the dead as they stared at a building in flames. Earlier, a prominent Israeli Cabinet minister and settler leader had called for Israel to strike without mercy.

Late on Sunday, the Palestinian Health Ministry said a 37-year-old man was shot and killed by Israeli fire.

The Palestinian Red Crescent medical service said two other people were shot and wounded, a third person was stabbed and a fourth was beaten with an iron bar. Some 95 others were being treated for tear gas inhalation.

Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas condemned what he called the terrorist acts carried out by settlers under the protection of the occupation forces tonight.

We hold the Israeli government fully responsible, he added.

Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas condemned the attacks (Amr Nabil/AP)

As videos of the violence appeared on evening news shows, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealed for calm and urged against vigilante violence. I ask that when blood is boiling and the spirit is hot, dont take the law into your hands, Mr Netanyahu said in a video statement.

The Israeli military said its chief of staff, Herzl Halevi, was rushing to the scene and that forces were trying to restore order.

Israels army radio station, citing an anonymous official, said 15 houses and 25 cars had been torched, and that the army evacuated nine Palestinian families from their burning homes.

The rampage occurred shortly after the Jordanian government, which hosted Sundays talks at the Red Sea resort of Aqaba, said the sides had agreed to take steps to de-escalate tensions and would meet again next month ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

They reaffirmed the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground and to prevent further violence, the Jordanian Foreign Ministry announced.

After nearly a year of fighting that has killed over 200 Palestinians and more than 40 Israelis in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, the Jordanian announcement marked a small sign of progress but the situation on the ground immediately cast those commitments into doubt.

The Palestinians claim the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip  areas captured by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war  for a future state.

Some 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. The international community overwhelmingly considers the settlements as illegal and obstacles to peace.

The West Bank is home to a number of hard-line settlements whose residents frequently vandalise Palestinians land and property but rarely is the violence so widespread.

A Palestinian man inspects a burnt car, which residents say was set on fire by Israeli settlers (Majdi Mohammed/AP)

Prominent members of Israels far-right government called for tough action against the Palestinians.

Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich, a settler leader who lives in the area and has been put in charge of much of Israels West Bank policy, called for striking the cities of terror and its instigators without mercy, with tanks and helicopters.

Using a phrase that calls for a more heavy-handed response, he said Israel should act in a way that conveys that the master of the house has gone crazy.

An Israeli ministerial committee gave initial approval to a bill that would impose the death penalty on Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks. The measure was sent to lawmakers for further debate.

There were also differing interpretations of what exactly was agreed to in Aqaba between the Palestinians and Israelis.

Jordans Foreign Ministry said the representatives agreed to work toward a just and lasting peace and had committed to preserving the status quo at Jerusalems contested holy site.

Tensions at the site revered by Jews as the Temple Mount and Muslims as the Haram al-Sharif have often spilled over into violence, and two years ago sparked an 11-day war between Israel and the Hamas militant group during Ramadan.

Officials with Israels government, the most right-wing in Israeli history, played down Sundays meeting.

A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity under government guidelines, said only that the sides in Jordan agreed to set up a committee to work at renewing security ties with the Palestinians. The Palestinians cut off ties last month after a deadly Israeli military raid in the West Bank.

Mr Netanyahus national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, who led the Israeli delegation said there were no changes in Israeli policies and that plans to build thousands of new settlement homes approved last week would not be affected.

He said there is no settlement freeze and there is no restriction on army activity.

The Jordanian announcement had said Israel pledged not to legalise any more outposts for six months or to approve any new construction in existing settlements for four months.

The Palestinians, meanwhile, said they had presented a long list of grievances, including an end to Israeli settlement construction on occupied lands and a halt to Israeli military raids on Palestinian towns.

Sundays shooting in Hawara came days after an Israeli military raid killed 10 Palestinians in the nearby city of Nablus. The shooting occurred on a major highway that serves both Palestinians and Israeli settlers.

The two men who were killed were identified as brothers, aged 21 and 19, from the Jewish settlement of Har Bracha.
Burma Myanmar Regime Helicopter Hit in Fierce Battle for Chin Town

Gutted buildings in the deserted town of Thantlang are seen in early February. Photo/ Salia Tial Hram Ling

Chin resistance forces claim to have damaged a junta transport helicopter by bombing the aircraft with a drone as it landed at a hilltop outpost in Thantlang town, Chin State on Sunday.

The transport helicopter was dropping off rations and ammunition as Mi 35 gunships attacked the town and nearby areas, said Salai Htet Ni, spokesperson of the Chin National Front, the political wing of the Chin National Army (CNA).

The helicopter was hit by a bomb dropped from the drone as it was landing at the junta base.

After sustaining damage, the aircraft took off trailing smoke and made an emergency landing in the Chin State capital of Hakha, nearby, said Salai Htet Ni.

The resistance drone strike destroyed military equipment dropped by the helicopter as well as a heavy weapon deployed at the junta base, he added.

The attack followed Jan. 29 drone strikes by Chin resistance forces on an Mi-17 transport helicopter as it dropped rations at the regime base in Thantlang, according to the Chinland Defense Force (CDF)-Thantlang, which has joined with the CNA to attack regime forces in the town.

That assault also damaged the helicopter but failed to bring it down.

The drone attacks are part of Operation Tilim, launched by the CDF-Thantlang and CNA on Dec. 29 to target regime forces in the hilltop town. In its first two months, the resistance operation has killed at least 20 regime forces including policemen and wounded over 25.

Six resistance forces including two CNA members were also killed.

The combined Chin resistance forces have been raiding local junta outposts in Thantlang.

On Feb 8 and 9, they attacked the township police station, seizing it from a force of 50 junta soldiers and police and confiscating 40 of their weapons.

Since then, the regime has mounted a counterattack to retake the town with daily artillery and air strikes.

The town overseen by the junta base remains under the control of Chin resistance forces despite around 95 air strikes launched by regime forces on Thantlang and nearby areas.

Thantlangs entire population of around 10,000 residents fled when the junta began bombarding the town with artillery in retaliation for attacks by the Chin resistance in September 2021.

The town was reduced to ashes after regime forces burned almost all of its 1,300 houses and religious buildings in 35 arson attacks between 2021 and June 2022.
Burma Myanmar Regime Raids Displace 25,000 in Sagaing

People fleeing villages in the west of Khin-U Township, Sagaing on February 25./ Khin-U True News Team

Myanmar military raids in resistance stronghold Sagaing Region have displaced around 25,000 people since February 24, according to locals.

Junta columns of over 100 soldiers each are raiding villages In Sagaings Myinmu, Taze and Khin-U townships. Five villages alone were raided on February 24.

We all just had to run away as they [regime forces] suddenly raided the nearby houses. We werent able to bring anything with us, said U Tin, 46, a resident of Kantaw Village in the east of Myinmu Township.

Residents of neighboring villages also fled the military regimes raids on February 24 of Kantaw, Pae Ku, Padote Tine, Ngar Kin and Nyaung Pin Kan villages.

On February 25, about 150 junta troops raided Kyee Kan and nearby villages located in the north of Taze Township. Residents of villages along the Ye U Taze Kalaywa Road have also fled, according to villagers.

At least 5,000 residents in this area are fleeing. Since they [junta forces] started raiding Kyee Kan, we no longer dare to live in our villages as they could raid them on their return from Kyee Kan, said a villager from Khayan Chan Village along the road.

Locals said that regime troops fired light arms and mortars during the raids.

Regime soldiers are also raiding villages in the west of Khin-U Township. A military column of around 100 soldiers has moved into Shwebo District since February 25, displacing over 9,000 villagers, said Khin-U residents.

They [regime] troops raided seven villages. They were shooting and firing mortars and residents fled into the nearby jungle, said a reporter from Khin-U True News Team, a local media outlet.

Regime raids in Sagaing have increased since the junta declared martial law on February 2 in 11 Sagaing townships, including Taze and Khin-U.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, some 650,000 civilians have been displaced in Sagaing since the coup because of fighting between the regime and resistance groups.
Burma Myanmar Regime Restrictions Spark Health and Humanitarian Crises in Kayah

Children at an IDP camp in Kayah State.

The Myanmar militarys coup has resulted in dire consequences for civilians living in areas that are strongholds of resistance to the junta.

Over 1.6 million people have been displaced in Chin, Kachin, Karen, Kayah, Shan and Rakhine states and Magwe, Sagaing and Tanintharyi regions since the coup, according to the United Nations (UN), due to heavy fighting between Peoples Defense Forces (PDF) and the military regime, as well as junta arson attacks.

While the majority of them are now sheltering in refugee camps and villages, many are suffering from a lack of healthcare and other humanitarian crises due to regime-imposed restrictions. In Kayah State, Myanmars smallest state and an anti-regime stronghold, the struggle of the people is palpable.

At least four babies died stillborn, while a mother died shortly after childbirth, in January and February in Kayahs Demoso and Hpruso townships, as well as in Pekon Township in neighboring Shan State.

The Karenni Human Rights Group (KNHRG), which is assisting internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state, said that the tragic deaths are a result of the coup and the juntas inhumane restrictions on the supply of food and medicine to the conflict-torn region.

As far as I can see, restrictions on the transportation of pharmaceuticals are imposed only in our state [Kayah]. The military allows the transportation of pharmaceuticals only for hospitals or clinics with government licenses. They arrest people on the spot if they see any medical supplies being transported without permission, said Ko Banya, the KNHRGs spokesperson.

PDFs and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) have been fighting the regime in southeast Myanmars Kayah State since May 2021, displacing tens of thousands of civilians. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said that there were at least 86,600 IDPs in Kayah as of February 13, 2023.

However, KNHRG said that the actual number of refugees is far higher that the UNHCRs estimate of over 200,000 people who have fled their homes in Kayah since May 2021. In Demoso Township alone there are nearly 100,000 IDPs and around 225 refugee camps. Other civilians have fled to southern Shan and Karen states and Bago Region.

Healthcare emergency in Kayah

Dr. Ye Zaw, a member of the health committee of the Karenni State Consultative Council (KSCC), a body that unites local political forces and EAOs in Kayah, said that the lack of medical equipment and supplies hinders their work.

A premature baby can survive in an environment where there is a full range of medical equipment. But here [in Kayah] we dont have that so even though we have enough manpower, we cant save the life of an infant born prematurely, said the doctor.

KSCCs health committee, volunteer groups founded by striking health workers and civil society organizations are trying to cover the gaps in Kayahs healthcare services. But Dr. Ye Zaw admitted that they cannot provide the same service as before the coup.

We can only provide our services to people who can reach out to us or when we can reach out to them. The gap between the demand for and supply of healthcare is so large due to the junta restrictions and the shortfall in medical supplies, he said.

Ma Saw Saw, a volunteer in a Demoso Township IDP camp, said that malnutrition and the shortage of medical supplies are posing health risks for IDPs.

Many young and old people get sick very often in my camp. It is very difficult to access proper healthcare as my camp is located in a very remote area. We are always short of medical supplies. Currently, we have 15 pregnant women in my camp. None of them are receiving proper maternal healthcare. 30% of the children in my camp are also undernourished, said Ma Saw Saw.

She recalled one case where she helped deliver a baby without the assistance of a midwife.

I helped to deliver a baby in our camp last November without any medical or midwife assistance. We werent able to sterilize equipment when we cut the umbilical cord. So the baby got an infection, but luckily it survived, said Ma Saw Saw.

Humanitarian aid shortfall in Kayah

IDP camps are also reliant on donations from Myanmar people at home and abroad, but that will not be either effective or sustainable in the long term due to the increasing number of IDPs nationwide, rising prices and tight restrictions and controls on access to refugees.

One female IDP from Demoso Township said that a few UN agencies had worked with local civil society organizations covertly last year. However, she said it was not effective.

We received nearly 13kg of rice per person about three times last year. We really appreciate their help but, in reality, it is not sufficient, she said.

Ko Banya suggests international donors need to take a new approach to connect with trusted civil society organizations founded by local people who know the situation on the ground, as some aid agencies are operating under the regime.

He explained that if aid agencies operate under the junta, they will never reach the civilians in need in conflict-affected areas.

If they cannot do that, they should announce clearly that they cant operate in our region due to the risks. If they keep beating around the bush, they will only give false hope to people, said Ko Banya.

The UN said that it delivered life-saving humanitarian assistance to 3.9 million people in Myanmar in 2022. It also claimed that shortfalls in funding and severe restrictions on access to conflict-affected areas had impeded its humanitarian missions in the country.

Food insecurity is the major concern for refugees, as currently nearly 65 per cent of Kayah States paddy fields cannot be cultivated, according to Ko Banya. That and strict regime restrictions on rice supplies have worsened the humanitarian disaster in Kayah state.

Currently, the junta is restricting food deliveries in Kayah, while also controlling the transportation of food from the Kayah capital Loikaw to other townships within the state. The regime allows only five to seven sacks of rice at a time to be transported, said KNHRG.

They [the regime] inspect food deliveries very closely, so it is nearly impossible to deliver rice to displaced people, said Ko Banya.

Almost 17.6 million people in Myanmar will be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2023, according to the UN.
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War Against the Junta Over 40 Myanmar Junta Forces Killed in Four Days of Resistance Attacks

Resistance fighters of Red Dragon Column during an anti-junta protest / Red Dragon Column

At least 44 Myanmar junta forces including pro-regime militia members and a junta village administrator as well as a resistance fighter were killed in the last four days when Peoples Defense Forces (PDFs) and some ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) continued to attack regime targets nationwide.

Incidents were reported in Mandalay, Sagaing, Magwe, Bago, and Tanintharyi regions and Karen and Kayah states.

The Irrawaddy has collected the following reports of significant attacks from PDFs and EAOs.

Some military casualty figures could not be independently verified.

Junta border outpost, transport helicopter attacked in Kayah

The Karenni Army (KA) used a drone to drop eight bombs on a junta outpost near the Thai border in Shadaw Township, Kayah State last Friday, said the Karenni Military Information Center, the media wing of the KA.

Military casualties were unknown. Regime forces responded with both heavy explosives and firearms, but resistance forces retreated from the area without casualties.

The KA temporarily occupied the outpost in January last year.

Also on Friday, the KA attacked a military helicopter transporting rations to a junta outpost on the border with Thailand. Due to the attack, the helicopter was forced to leave the area without dropping any rations for the border outpost.

Some minutes later, two fighter jets conducted four air strikes in the area, but there were no resistance casualties, the KAs media wing said.

10 junta troops killed in urban clashes in Karen

At least 10 regime forces and a resistance fighter were killed in Phayarthonsu town in Kyainseikgyi Township, Karen State on Saturday when the PDF group Red Dragon Column raided the police station in the town, the resistance group said.

Fighting continued between the retreating resistance forces and 30 regime reinforcements who were sent to the town, the PDF group said.

Junta camp occupied by resistance forces in Karen

The Bamar Peoples Liberation Army (BPLA) claimed it and three other PDF groups raided and seized a camp of regime soldiers and allied border guard forces in Hpapun District in Karen State on Saturday.

After a few minutes of fighting, the combined resistance forces managed to seize the base as regime forces fled. Two weapons, ammunition and some mobile phones were seized and the dead body of a junta soldier was found, the BPLA said.

Junta-appointed village administrator assassinated in Tanintharyi

PDF group Taung Pan Ni claimed to have killed U Yan Aung Soe, the regime-appointed village administrator of Sin Chay Phone Village in Tanintharyi Township, Tanintharyi Region, on Saturday.

The group said it would continue to kill administrators working for the regime.

Regime forces bombed by PDF drones in Mandalay

A junta soldier was killed and another injured in Madaya Township, Mandalay Region on Saturday when Unicorn Guerrilla Force used drones to drop bombs on regime forces raiding villages, claimed the PDF group.

The PDFs video shows a drone dropping bombs on regime targets.

Regime camps raided in Sagaing

An army officer and a pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia member were killed in Ayadaw Township, Sagaing Region last Friday when combined PDF groups raided a junta camp in the pro-regime village of Thit Kyin Gyi, said Ayadaw-PDF, which took part in the raid.

On the same day, Ayadaw-PDF and other resistance groups used 60-mm mortar rounds to shell the police outpost in Naung Gyi Ai Village in the township.

Last Thursday, combined PDF groups also managed to seize a camp of regime forces and pro-regime militia members in Sapar Twin Village in the township. In the raid, PDF forces rescued residents who had been held by the regime forces as human shields.

Pro-regime militia groups attacked in Sagaing



Pro-regime militias are hit by PDF land mines in Monywa Township on Saturday. / Brave Heart Army

Three pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia members were killed in Monywa Township, Sagaing Region on Sunday when a clash broke out between militia forces and five PDF groups outside the pro-regime village of Taw Pu, said Brave Heart Army, a resistance group that joined the attack.

All PDF fighters retreated from the clash site when militia reinforcements arrived and used heavy explosives to target PDF forces.

On Saturday, the Brave Heart Army and three other PDF groups used a cluster of five land mines to ambush a pro-regime militia group that was stealing crops from the farmlands of residents who had fled junta raids in the township.

A militia member was killed and some others injured in the ambush, the PDF group said.

Regime forces attacked while torching houses in Sagaing



Resistance fighters engage in a clash with junta troops in a village in Ayadaw Township last Thursday. / PDF-Taungtha

At least 10 regime forces were killed in Ayeadaw Township, Sagaing Region last Thursday when PDF-Taungtha and Sagaing District PDF Battalion 7 conducted a surprise attack on 70 regime forces burning houses in Min Ywar Gyi Village, the PDF groups said.

Regime forces were ambushed from close range as they scattered in the village. There were no PDF casualties, PDF-Taungtha said.

Police station bombed by PDF drones in Sagaing

The Salingyi Spaceman Drone Army said it used a drone to drop bombs on the police station in the town of Salingyi Township, Sagaing Region last Friday.

Police casualties were unknown.

Junta camp raided in Magwe



Resistance fighters of Yesagyo-PDF and Pakokku District Battalion 9 raid a junta camp in Yesagyo Township, Magwe Region last Friday. / Yesagyo-PDF

At least 12 regime forces including pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia members were killed during intense clashes when Yesagyo-PDF and Pakokku District PDF Battalion 9 jointly raided the junta camp in the pro-regime village of Zee Taw in Yesagyo Township, Magwe Region last Friday, said Yesago-PDF.

PDF forces raided the junta camp at the school in the village while PDF drones bombed the camp. At the same time, other resistance forces used heavy explosives to attack nearby military Infantry Battalion 258 in order to prevent it from sending reinforcements to the pro-regime village.

Meanwhile, PDF forces also used a cluster of three land mines to ambush a 12-wheel truck carrying reinforcements from the town of Yesagyo. In the attack, the truck was stopped after being damaged and four soldiers were killed in the land mine blasts.

PDF fighters had to abandon their mission of occupying the regime camp in the village when Mi-35 helicopter gunships arrived and military Battalion 257 began shelling the area, while two military columns headed to the village.

There were no PDF casualties, claimed Yesagyo-PDF.

Four junta troops killed in PDF ambushes in Magwe

At least four regime forces were killed in Pauk Township, Magwe Region on Saturday when combined PDF groups ambushed a military detachment of 150 troops raiding the township, said People Revolution Front-Pakokku, which joined the ambush.

The combined PDF groups attacked the military detachment again that evening.

Regime forces bombed in Magwe

Three regime forces were injured seriously in Myaing Township, Magwe Region on Saturday when Myaing-PDF used two land mines to ambush five junta soldiers including a pro-regime Pyu Saw Htee militia member patrolling outside the town of Myaing, the PDF group said.

After being ambushed, two regime forces fled into the town of Myaing, abandoning three injured soldiers.

Later, regime forces arrived at the ambush site and took away the bodies of the killed and injured soldiers.

Military detachment ambushed in Magwe

Some regime forces are believed to have been killed or injured in Gangaw Township, Magwe Region last Friday when six PDF groups ambushed a military detachment of 120 troops traveling in the township, said Yaw PDF, which joined the attack.

Regime forces were ambushed on the embankment of Myit Tha Dam while heading to Min Ywar Village. No PDF casualties were reported in the clash.

On Thursday, Yaw-PDF and another resistance group used heavy explosives to attack a military checkpoint at an entrance to the town of Gangaw.

Junta policemen ambushed in Bago

Bago Region PDF said its member Phyu PDF ambushed police forces outside the town of Kanyutkwin in Phyuu Township, Bago Regio on Sunday.

The junta police were attacked while returning to their base after guarding a donation ceremony involving a junta-appointed administrator of Phayar Lahar Village in the township.

In the shootout, four policemen were injured.
Nokia has announced that it has signed go-to-market agreements with the worlds leading cloud infrastructure and server providers giving mobile network operators and enterprises flexibility in their choice of hardware, cloud infrastructure, and data center solutions for running Cloud RAN.

To support this Nokia says it has also announced the launch of anyRAN, a new concept to help mobile operators and enterprises extend their options for building and evolving their radio access networks.

Nokias approach supports the evolution of todays purpose-built networks to Cloud RAN and hybrid solutions, ensuring performance consistency across all network environments, says Nokia.

Nokia says anyRAN is designed to help mobile operators and enterprises extend their options for building and evolving their radio access networks - and the software can run on any partner's Cloud and Server infrastructure in addition to Nokia AirScale base stations and Nokia AirFrame servers.

This approach removes the complexity from deployments by allowing a mix of purpose-built, hybrid, and fully Cloud-based RAN solutions, enabling deep multi-level disaggregation at the Cloud Infrastructure layer and data center (server) hardware layer. Close collaboration with partners also ensures performance consistency of Cloud RAN with Nokias field-proven purpose-built RAN.

Underpinning these high-performance solutions is the Nokia Cloud RAN SmartNIC, a Layer 1 (fronthaul) In-Line acceleration card that integrates seamlessly with all leading Cloud or server infrastructures. L1 acceleration needs specialized silicon with extreme computing capacity, which is beyond the capabilities of general-purpose processors.

Nokia Cloud RAN SmartNIC uses dedicated and optimized silicon technology, which is more energy efficient and provides higher performance. Nokia and its partners have already successfully performed end-to-end 5G data calls (Layer 3 calls) in multi-vendor setups powered by Nokias solution.

While Nokias AnyRAN solution offers deep multi-level vertical disaggregation, Nokia also continues to serve the mobile operator and enterprise market with its optimized Nokia AirFrame OpenEdge server family. Benefitting from the SmartNIC, the enhanced AirFrame Open Edge server delivers a 50 percent performance boost compared to the system shown at Mobile World Congress 2022.

Nokias solutions offer network performance consistency between purpose-built AirScale baseband and Cloud RAN and secures the best possible feature performance parity, with the fastest time-to-market for cloud/hybrid networks.

At MWC 2023 in Barcelona, Nokia says it will showcase anyRAN as well as the future-ready SmartNIC solution, its enhanced AirFrame Open Edge server as well as the progress made in Cloud RAN with its best-in-class partners. Additional demonstrations will also be included on our partners stands. Please visit Hall 3 to see our industry-leading technology solutions.



Sue Rudd, Director Networks and Service Platforms at TechInsights, said: As service providers evolve on the path towards disaggregated RAN, Nokias anyRAN offers them a solution with standard O-RAN fronthaul and 3GPP midhaul interfaces under seamless control that can operate across multiple Cloud partner data centers.

Combined with acceleration from a new Layer 1 SMARTNIC and a host neutral Container as a Service (CaaS) layer for DU and CU processing, this flexible open approach will allow operators to leverage Nokias powerful new ecosystem of platform and cloud partners to deliver very cost effective, high performance Cloud RAN service.

Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said: The strength of our industry partnerships and the launch of anyRAN unlocks more choice and higher performance in Cloud RAN for our mobile network operator and enterprise customers. Server-based Cloud RAN will have to co-exist with purpose-built RAN in the short-to-medium term which calls for performance consistency and service continuity between the two.

Together with our leading industry partners, we have made huge progress towards this goal by driving consistent performance across any partner's Cloud Infrastructure or server hardware. Our collaborative approach to Cloud RAN means we can drive efficiency, innovation, openness, and scale by jointly delivering competitive advantage to organizations embracing Cloud RAN.
The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government will invest $250 million to boost mobile reception in the bush in small communities, tourism hotspots, and along key transport corridors, it announced.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the program would drive better coverage and better choice in the regions.

While there are more than 120 mobile towers across regional NSW to boost coverage in blackspot areas, Toole acknowledged theres more to do.

Our $250 million investment in this program shifts away from traditional one tower, one provider model thinking in favour of a nation-leading approach to deliver shared infrastructure available for use by all carriers.

Toole claimed the investment will drive better competition and better choices for consumers.

Toole claimed this is the first program of its kind in Australia, pointing out that this is further evidence of the future-focused approached that the NSW Liberal are taking in government.

The new program will target three key areas:

1. Small regional communities with little to no existing coverage;

2. Key transport corridors, where a boost to coverage can help drive increased productivity and improved safety; and

3. Visitor economies where major events draw large crowds.

Toole said events like the Mundi Mundi Bash at Broken Hill and Deni Ute Muster attract thousands of visitors.

We want to ensure those visitors stay connected and can share their experiences with friends all over the world in real-time, Toole said.

This program will focus on ensuring these visitor economies are better connected to meet event needs all year-round.

This program will put a focus on filling those gaps. Applications for the program will open from May, Toole added.

The funding will be delivered through multi-carrier partnerships through the OneWiFi and Pivotel neutral host towers for Brewarrina and Wilcannia.

Under this type of model, were bridging the digital divide to provide regional customers more choice than ever, said OneWifi managing director Mevan Jayatilleke said.

Weve worked hard to develop alternative commercial and technical sharing models through the active sharing program and are proud to be the first mobile network operator in this innovative investment by the NSW Government, Pivotel CEO Peter Bolger said.

Telco challenger alliance Commpete has welcomed the pledge, which it describes as setting the future stage for leading telecommunications in regional NSW.

This goes beyond delivering baseline connectivity to priority areas, but also sets a foundation which is solid groundwork for digital growth and increased choice. This levels what metropolitan cities and many overseas counterparts may take for granted as they go about their daily lives, commented Commpete chair Michelle Lim.

Lim said the initiatives are leading edge and embrace the next era of innovation in mobile infrastructure deployment and open access regimes.

In Commpetes view, this will bolster choice and opportunity for new service-based offerings and verticals, and leverage the experience and expertise of a broad range of new, emerging and established industry participants.

We recognise the longstanding resolve to invest in program design which combines both new access to mobile connectivity, while embedding government policy and requirements. This allows for the long-term strategic delivery of pro-competitive outcomes to benefit all Australians for a bright, economic and digitally advanced future, Lim concluded.
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Cloud networking company Extreme Networks has made three new channel appointments based in Sydney and Melbourne.

Djeffri Setiawan has been appointed ANZ channel manager.

Based in Sydney, Setiawan will be responsible for further developing and maturing the Extreme Networks channel strategies in line with its growth strategies across Australia and New Zealand.

Setiawan joins Extreme Networks with more than ten years experience in the Australian IT channel.

Most recently, he was channel sales manager  Oceania at Genetec where over the past two years, he was instrumental in leading a channel strategy to provide improved training, customer support services and partner programs to enable systems integrators and channel partners.

Previously, Setiawan was head of channels and alliances at Nexthop, and before that, he worked at Hills Limited for six years in several key roles, including as general manager  information technology as well as sales and business development manager for information technology products.

Setiawan began his career in the IT channel at Lan 1 as channel account manager.

In addition, Jayshil Parmar joins Extreme Networks as partner development manager  ANZ based in Melbourne. He will be responsible for supporting and onboarding new partners and building deeper relationships with existing partners.

Parmar has nine years of channel sales experience and previously worked at STM Goods across several business development and distribution roles, most recently as state manager for Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Prior to that he worked in IT distribution in New Zealand.

Extreme Networks has also appointed Robin Slatter as ANZ distributor manager.

Based in Sydney, Slatter will be managing distributor relationships and strategies in support of the overall Extreme Networks channel business strategy in the region.

Slatter previously spent more than two decades at Dell Technologies in several roles, most recently as senior sales leader for ANZ channel, alliances and distribution.

During his time, he led multiple teams supporting partners and distributors in Australia and New Zealand to foster growth and overall strategic business success.

These new hires will help strengthen our team as we continue investing in and growing the ANZ business. At the end of the day, its how we respond to people and support partners that differentiates us. Thats where we really shine  providing a high level of partner touch so partners feel supported to offer our solutions, and in turn, deliver better outcomes for their end user customers, said Extreme Networks ANZ regional director Carmelo Calafiore.

There are a lot of opportunities for Extreme in Australia and New Zealand, and by strengthening our local team we will be able to provide more support for both existing and new customers and channel partners in the region. Our new team members have the skills and experience necessary to help us succeed as we continue to invest in the ANZ market and increase adoption of our industry-leading cloud networking solutions, said Extreme Networks head of channel and inside sales Stefan Compagnoni.
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.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
This year marks the 31st anniversary of China-Belarus diplomatic relations, which have been continuously strengthened and upgraded, with solid progress in all-round cooperation through these years.

"I have the warmest, kindest memories from my first visit to China, from my first impressions of the country, and from my cooperation with the leaders of the People's Republic of China," Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko told Xinhua in an exclusive interview ahead of his visit to China.

This year marks the 31st anniversary of China-Belarus diplomatic relations, which have been continuously strengthened and upgraded, with solid progress in all-round cooperation through these years.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko speaks during an exclusive interview with Xinhua ahead of his visit to China in Minsk, Belarus, Feb. 23, 2023. [Photo by Henadz Zhinkov/Xinhua]

On Sept. 15, 2022, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Lukashenko met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on the sidelines of the 22nd meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The two heads of state decided to elevate bilateral relations to the level of an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership. China-Belarus relations have reached their highest level in history.

Lukashenko has high hopes for his upcoming visit to China. "I have been to China many times. I am very glad to visit China again in the coming days and meet with the Chinese leader, my old friend President Xi Jinping, a very smart, wise, creative and modern person," the Belarusian president noted.

During the interview, Lukashenko looked back on his previous visits to China, recalling his first visit to China as the president of Belarus over two decades ago as well as his earlier trips as a member of parliament to China's special economic zones.

At that time, China was not the same as it is now, he said. "The population was huge... Everyone had to be fed and dressed. China needed to strengthen national defense. Everything was not easy. However, China was determined to achieve all of these," Lukashenko said.

After visiting China, Lukashenko said he felt that in just a couple of decades China would achieve significant development, so China's experience should be learned.

The president noted that Belarus had drawn on China's experience, primarily that regarding special economic zones. "Based on this, we have established several free economic zones, including the Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park... China's experience lay at the heart of it," he said.

The industrial park mentioned by Lukashenko is the largest project to attract investment in Belarus and a landmark cooperation project within the Belt and Road framework, which was promoted by the two heads of state personally and prized by the two governments. Since the two countries' leaders visited the industrial park in May 2015, development and construction of the project have forged ahead, and fruitful results have been achieved.

According to the National Statistical Committee of Belarus, the net profit of the enterprises of the industrial park totals 34.1 million Belarusian rubles (13.51 million U.S. dollars) in 2022, up by 144 percent from the previous year.

Reviewing the development of the industrial park in recent years, Lukashenko said that progress has been made despite the COVID-19 pandemic along with other crises and problems. Last year alone, there had been 19 enterprises moving in.

The latest statistics showed that there had been 107 companies in the industrial park by Feb. 22, 2023, with seven new enterprises settling in the park this year.

"Chinese President Xi Jinping once described the Great Stone as 'a pearl along the Silk Road Economic Belt,'" said Lukashenko, adding that Belarus attaches great importance to the development of the industrial park and provides many preferential policies including tax exemptions. "This is very beneficial for business," he stressed.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Belarus, as an important transit hub on the Silk Road Economic Belt, was one of the first countries to respond and participate in the initiative.

With the growth of biliteral ties, China and Belarus have seen a boom in trade over the past years. Statistics from the General Administration of Customs of China show that two-way trade surpassed 5 billion dollars in 2022, up by 33 percent year on year.

Lukashenko said that Belarus has a strong machine manufacturing sector. Currently the two countries are engaged in dialogue on issues of industrial policy.

"Today, we are already learning from China's new technologies, which are of interest to us. And this concerns all sectors, from the biotechnology to national defense. China has made significant progress," Lukashenko said.

"We are expecting more high-tech enterprises from China to join the industrial park," he said.

In recent years, China and Belarus have deepened cooperation in the field of scientific and technological innovation.

The Belarusian National Biotechnology Corporation (BNBC) project, a "high-tech full-cycle agriculture project," which includes the first amino acid manufacturing plant in Belarus and built in cooperation with China, was officially put into operation in the Minsk region on Nov. 4, 2022.

The BNBC is the first amino acid production enterprise in Belarus and the first import-substituting project in the industry of deep grain processing. Lukashenko said that the project would elevate the technological capability of the country and become the locomotive of national development.

Thanks to Xi's leadership, the project was able to implement, Lukashenko said, adding that "this is highly advanced technology. Not many countries in the world have such production facilities. China has helped us create such a biotech corporation."

The Belarusian president also mentioned that his youngest son is currently studying biotechnology in a joint training program between the two countries.

China has achieved great development and plays an important role in international affairs, he said, adding that China has become a major country with an independent policy and "today, not a single issue in the world can be resolved without China."

Expressing his firm belief that China will, as always, pursue an independent foreign policy of peace, Lukashenko said that China's position paper on political settlement of Ukraine crisis is a testimony to its peaceful foreign policy as well as a new and original step that will have a far-reaching impact all over the world.

On the U.S. downing of a Chinese civilian unmanned airship, Lukashenko called it "a very unfriendly step" and a "show" deliberately staged by the United States for political reasons.

"Today, no one can contain China or stop its development," the Belarusian president said.

- Xinhua
An N.C. House Select Committee is recommending that the General Assembly change a state law forcing districts to start school the Monday closest to Aug. 26 and end no later than the Friday clo
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited India on Saturday seeking to deepen business and defence ties between the two major economies and jumpstart progress on an EU trade deal despite differences over Ukraine.

"We want to further strengthen our bilateral relationship with India and our cooperation on global issues, such as mitigating climate change and transforming our economies in a just, green and sustainable way," Scholz told the Times of India in an interview.

"There is huge potential for intensified cooperation, in sectors such as renewables, hydrogen, mobility, pharma, digital economy, and many more," Scholz told the paper.

Scholz, accompanied by executives from big German firms like Siemens, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi and was due to head to Bengaluru to visit German software firms including SAP.

Officials said Scholz would press for progress towards a trade deal between the European Union and India that has long been held up by disagreements on tariffs and access for Indian workers to Europe.

A German official in Berlin said the two sides remain "quite some distance apart".

"Some people want to complete this by the end of this year. Others say that even summer next year is ambitious," the official said on condition of anonymity.

Scholz was due to discuss a bid by Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to build six submarines in India in a deal worth around $5 billion, Bloomberg News reported.

"Security and defence cooperation can become an important pillar of our strategic partnership. In this sector, we will continue to work to realise our untapped potential," Modi told reporters.

- Ukraine war -

The two sides also differ on the Ukraine war, with India refusing to condemn Russia's invasion and ramping up purchases of oil from its biggest supplier of arms.

"If we want to work together effectively on global challenges, we need a solid, reliable and rules-based international order. Attacking your neighbour, seizing territory by force, committing terrible war crimes, cannot be tolerated," Scholz said in the interview.

"With India we share the foundation of democracy and the respect of international law. Together, we stand for state sovereignty and peaceful conflict resolution worldwide," he said.

Scholz, 64, also said the Group of 20 nations should not ease up on pressuring Russia during India's current presidency and continue to send a "strong message".

Delegates at a meeting of G20 finance ministers in Bengaluru due to wrap up on Saturday said that China was seeking to water down language from a leaders' summit in November condemning the war.

A second German official said that behind the scenes, India was using "clear words" in its discussions with Russia to show that New Delhi is not happy about the conflict.

"Last autumn in a meeting with (Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin, Prime Minister Modi expressed himself in a very pronounced way: '(This is) no time for war,'" the official said.

It was unclear whether Scholz would raise concerns about minority and media rights in the world's biggest democracy during his talks with the Hindu nationalist premier.

Last week Indian tax officials raided the local offices of the BBC in a move rights groups linked to a documentary by the British broadcaster about Modi's role in deadly sectarian riots in 2002.

The Indian government denied the two were linked.

mt-stu/axn

SAP

SIEMENS
Latvia, one of the three tiny Baltic States bordering Russia, has joined the other two and adopted conscription. Latvia had abolished conscription in 2006, believing that their NATO membership would prevent Russia (the main threat in the region) from attacking them. The Russian attack on Ukraine in 2014 and invasion a year ago proved that was a mistake. Latvia and Ukraine do not have a common border, but both border Belarus and Russia and that is a reminder of how vulnerable Latvia is, even with NATOs mutual defense grantee. Before 2023 Latvian voters would not support reviving conscription. That did not mean Latvia was ignoring the Russian threat. Like the other two Baltic States, Latvia was not just spending more money on defense but also implementing many reforms in an effort to deal with the return of the Russian military threat and the fact that the three Baltic States are tiny compared to Russia and in need of new thinking on how to keep the Russians out.

In light of this most Latvians accepted the 2017 total mobilization policy, which provides more opportunities for all citizens to participate. The voters would not revive conscription in 2017 and since then there has been insufficient willingness by military age men (and many women) to join or otherwise support the largely part-time military. There were voluntary programs in high schools where students could receive basic military training. Other countries have found that programs like this enable many potential recruits to see if they have any aptitude and interest in this sort of thing. Many find that they do and those who are not really good at it discover that as well. The military also established a Summer Training program in which students could volunteer for several weeks (or more) of full time training. There was also more money for National Guard units to conduct training that can get expensive. This included items like lumber and other materials needed to build roadblocks and other obstacles, plus more money for part-time soldiers to practice their marksmanship and use of other weapons (mostly things that go bang).

Like the other two Baltic States Latvia is tiny (population two million) and 0nly 61 percent of that is ethnic Latvian while 25 percent is ethnic Russian. Defense spending was only half a billion dollars a year (1.7 percent of GDP). Latvia, like the other Baltic States, planned to increase defense spending to two percent of GDP by the end of the decade but even then that is not a lot. The growing Russian threat changed those plans and Latvian defense spending kept increasing. At the time of the Ukraine invasion, it was 2.3 percent of GDP and that has not changed. The attitude towards conscription did and that means a lot more young (18-27 year old) men will receive military training.

Existing training programs for volunteers will be expanded to handle the conscripts but it will take five years to conscript and train all those now eligible for conscription. Conscripts serve for one year and that is largely devoted to learning essential military skills. Most conscripts then become reservists although some choose to continue on active duty soldiers. By 202y8 Latvia expects to have 14,000 active duty troops. 16,000 in the semi-active National Guard and 20,000 in the reserves where there is still some refresher training but reservists are always ready to be mobilized in an emergency.

Before the revival of conscription, the Latvian armed forces were quite small. There were 4,600 active duty troops and 8,400 in the National Guard. Many of the troops who complete a term of active service join the 12,000 strong reserve force and many also join the National Guard. The Latvian military is very similar to what Sweden, Switzerland and Israel have used. The small number of full time troops are there mainly to train and support the 20,000 part time personnel.

The Latvian National Guard is more like the American National Guard in that it devotes a lot of its training and organization to dealing with natural or other emergencies in a specific part of the country. But the Latvian Guard personnel are armed and enthusiastically improve their military skills, often on their own time. Its all about the Russian threat, which has been around for a long time.

Since Latvia joined NATO in 2004 they have had ample opportunity to test their system by mobilizing reserve and National Guard units more frequently for training, often with other NATO troops. Because Latvia went all-volunteer in 2005 they had no problem getting troops to go overseas on peacekeeping duty. Meanwhile Estonia and Lithuania revived conscription and Latvia monitored how that operated in case Latvia might have to reinstate conscription.

There was also more sharing of ideas with the other Baltic States. For example, in late 2016 neighbor Lithuania issued a 75 page how to survive another Russian occupation manual for its citizens called; "Prepare to survive emergencies and war." All three Baltic States have plenty of experience with being invaded and occupied by Russia, and remind their citizens what works, especially now that the Baltic States have a mutual defense treaty with the United States and all other NATO members. Latvia had a Mobilization Law which covered all this but it was constantly revised and upgraded. There was a lot more revision after conscription was revived.

The prepare to survive guide provides tips that resonate with most Russian neighbors. The guide describes how to behave when dealing with the invader while also spying on the occupation force. The manual provides illustrations and description of most Russian weapons and details of how the Russians use secret police, local informants and special operations troops to try and control an occupied population. The manual also points out that Russia will send in agents (or activate ones it has already recruited) before an invasion and provides tips on how to detect the presence of these agents, especially in preparation for an imminent invasion.

Latvia is not alone in doing this sort of thing. Since the Soviet Union fell apart many Russian neighbors have feared a revival of traditional Russian aggression. In 2004 Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia joined NATO, putting parts of the former Soviet Union (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) within NATO and on Russias border. Many Russians criticized this, for Russian policy since 1945 has been to establish a "buffer" of subservient countries between Russian territory and the rest of Western Europe (especially Germany). This attitude is obsolete in a practical sense but old habits die hard and Russia prefers to have subservient neighbors.

These adjacent states were called the near abroad and few were willing to submit and become Russian buffer states. Many joined NATO, an organization created over 70 years ago to jointly resist Russian threats or an actual Russian invasion. One Russian justification for invading Ukraine was the many Ukrainians backing NATO membership for Ukraine. The vigorous and successful Ukrainian resistance to the invading Russians impressed NATO members and resulted in massive deliveries of weapons, munitions and other military aid to Ukraine. All this continues as NATO states treat Ukraine like a NATO member and openly back NATO and EU (European Union, an economic link) membership once the Russians have been defeated. Latvia and other NATO states bordering Russia got a vivid glimpse of the damage done to a country invaded by Russia.

Before the 2022 invasion Russia said it was willing to work with NATO in areas of mutual benefit but did not. Since 2014 there has been a state of undeclared war between Russia and NATO. New NATO members were more worried about the renewed Russian aggression than the original NATO members (the U.S. and Western Europe). The nations of east NATO'' constantly requested more presence by troops from west NATO. Some of the eastern members, especially Poland and the Baltic States, called for the permanent basing of U.S. troops on their territory. The smaller states Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania believe Russia could overrun them in two days and senior NATO military commanders openly agreed. Russia considers such talk more evidence of NATO aggression against Russia. Lithuanians have heard this kind of talk from Russia before and want to avoid the usual outcome.

One reason for Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine was their expectation of a swift and total victory which would intimidate nearby NATO members to be more compliant with Russian demands. There was no victory, swift or otherwise and Russia is suffering heavy personnel and economic losses because of their failure in Ukraine. Russia, or at least their aggressive leader Vladimir Putin, insists the war in Ukraine will continue until Russia prevails. That sort of irrational and destructive Russian behavior reinforces the usefulness of NATO membership. The regulations governing NATO operations forbid a nation at war from joining NATO. But once that fighting is over, Ukraine becomes a member.
Dozens of Indigenous Guatemalans paid tribute Saturday to the thousands of victims of the bloody civil war that tore the Central American country apart for more than 30 years.

One survivor of the 1960-1996 conflict, Diego Rivera, told AFP in the northwestern town of Nebaj that people were coming together to remember "those who gave their lives and blood" for peace.

Nebaj and the towns of Cotzal and Chajul form the so-called Ixil Triangle in the ethnic Mayan region, an area still haunted by dozens of wartime massacres, forced disappearances and executions of Indigenous people, mostly at the hands of the army.

For those crimes, later classified as genocide, a Guatemalan court in 2013 sentenced former dictator Efrain Rios Montt (1982-1983) to 80 years in prison -- a sentence later overturned on grounds that he had not been allowed an effective defense.

The retired general died in 2018, aged 91, as his retrial was going on.

Every February 25, Guatemala honors war victims on the date that, in 1999, a Truth Commission -- formally the Commission for Historical Clarification -- released its "Memory of Silence" report under UN auspices.

That document concluded that the war between the government and leftist guerrilla factions -- which ended in 1996 with the signing of a peace treaty -- led to more than 200,000 deaths and disappearances, the vast majority of them blamed on state security forces.

Rivera, a 68-year-old farmer, said relatives and victims of the conflict are unhappy with the current right-wing government of President Alejandro Giammattei, which they accuse of neglecting their requests for reparation.

"All the consequences of this conflict continue to mark our lives," said 48-year-old Juana Baca, part of a group of Indigenous women.

In Nebaj, a huge banner was unfurled reading "Never again -- rivers of blood in Guatemala" -- a protest against the candidacy in June presidential elections of former deputy Zury Rios, a daughter of Rios Montt.

Victims' groups also filed legal complaints Friday against her candidacy, citing a constitutional prohibition against political participation by relatives of any coup leader.

That ban kept Zury Rios out of the 2019 presidential election, but the electoral court has allowed her current candidacy.

About 40 percent of Guatemalans are Indigenous, and in many rural areas, members of the ethnic Maya group are often the majority.
During the first phase of the trial, which lasted nearly five months, the eleven defendants appeared one after the other, in animated but almost impeccably organized hearings.

Then on February 15, the court president called a victim to the stand for the first time. Ms. C. is a mother who claims to have been gang raped at the Conakry stadium on September 28, 2009. While her lawyers demanded that the case be heard behind closed doors, as allowed by the Guinean code of criminal procedure, court president Ibrahima Sory 2 Tounkara ordered an express first appearance in public. "Before the decision [to hear her in camera or not] is made, it should at least be possible for the civil party to appear, even if the merits of the case are not discussed," he said. "That's why we're going to ask Ms. C. to take the stand."

Filmed by all the media cameras in the country, she stepped forward in a blue-checked wrap. There was a ripple in the public stands. The prosecutor asked for the floor. "I would like to ask the press not to point their cameras at the person who is appearing, he said. The president then seemed to realize what he had just done and exclaimed: "Let the press divert their cameras until the court has made its decision! If they can't divert them, then cut them off!"

Some channels stop broadcasting, others used just sound and a still, illustrated image. "It was I who wanted the meeting to be held in camera," said Mrs. C. to Tounkara, asking for that measure to be put in place. The public and journalists were invited to leave the room. But it was too late: Mrs. C. had been seen live on television and on the Internet. The court was the object of criticism. A Guinean news site headlined on "the irreparable error of the court", saying that "despite her wish to testify in camera, one of the rape victims (...) appeared in public".

What happened is regrettable

The court seems not to have anticipated this crucial stage. This is all the more difficult to understand given that the extreme sensitivity of the case is well known: at least one hundred women were raped by Guinean security forces at the stadium, according to the final report of an international commission of inquiry. And a few days before the opening of the trial, the authorities had speeded up adoption of a law that established rules for the protection of victims and witnesses.

"It is regrettable what happened," said Asmaou Diallo, president of the Association of Victims, Parents and Friends of September 28 (Avipa), which has been supporting the women raped at the stadium in 2009 for 13 years. "We have always tried to protect them, so we should not show their faces against their will during the trial.

For a victim of sexual violence to speak out in public is to break a huge taboo in Guinea. "The court, the public prosecutor and our colleagues in the defence have not perceived the seriousness of the situation where a victim is exposed who does not want to talk about the sexual violence she suffered," explains Halimatou Camara, lawyer for the civil parties. "We are in a dynamic of protecting the rights of the accused, but we must also protect those of the civil parties. This means taking into account the trauma that these people have suffered.

The lawyer points out that Mrs. C.s hearing then proceeded normally. "The victim had the right to speak, to explain what she experienced, what she saw, how she was raped and tortured by the red berets. She could not give all these details [publicly] for reasons of modesty, in a society that is deeply patriarchal."

This very first in camera session had an immediate effect on the hyper-mediatized trial: very few articles were published about the hearing. The statements of lawyers, as they left the courtroom, were reported verbatim in short form, without any perspective, even though it was the first time a woman rape victim spoke at the trial. "Not all the civil parties will ask for a closed session; a balance will have to be found between media coverage and victim protection," says Camara.

Others are concerned that closed sessions will become the norm in this historically important trial. "All the people of Guinea and the whole world must experience this trial live so that everyone can know what happened in this case. To decide like this, halfway through the trial, that part of the hearing will be held behind closed doors, I think this can deprive the public of many truths," said Pepe Antoine Lamah, lawyer for Moussa Dadis Camara, who was head of state at the time of the events and is the main defendant. Lamah recognizes that "the reason given by the court is well-founded", but he and the other defence counsels would have liked to see "a faithful account reported by the court" for the general public.

After Ms. C., three other victims of sexual violence were heard without the public and without cameras. There were no problems.

"Blood on the steps of the hospital

On Tuesday February 14, the first civil party had spoken publicly. "This allowed everyone to be reminded of the seriousness of the facts, whereas the trial was starting to become a kind of theatre," said Camara. The public had become accustomed to the denials of the defendants, to their incomplete versions with no mention of deaths or injuries let alone women raped.

Oury Bailo Bah was not at the stadium, but he heard everything. With his ear pressed to his phone on the morning of September 28, 2009, he stayed in touch at the beginning of the attack with his brother, 36-year-old El Hadj Hassane Bah, who was at the opposition meeting. El Hadj Hassane has since disappeared.

Appearing in a pair of black sunglasses, Bailo was allowed to keep them on. He said it was to protect his eyes from the intense light that illuminates the courtroom. But might it not be rather to hide his emotion? For several hours, his brother Hassane described what he saw: the esplanade in front of the stadium, the "huge crowd," "the gendarmes", the firing of tear gas and "the first two deaths" by gunfire in the presence of trial defendant Colonel Moussa "Tiegboro" Camara, according to Bailo.

Bailo continued his account. The demonstrators managed to enter the stadium. Through the handset, he first heard the echo of political speeches and suddenly, when the red berets entered, "the crackling of bullets", "the cries of people". His brother ran, his breathing quickening, the phone dropped. Hassane no longer answered. Bailo went looking for him. At Donka Hospital, he found the emergency room overwhelmed with injured people. "There was such a cacophony," he recalled. "I saw blood running down the hospital steps, as if we were in a butchers shop.

Around 6 p.m., "the fateful news" fell. A man called him. He said he had seen the dead body of his brother on the stadium esplanade. He recovered a key from the body. "I took it as evidence," said the man, whose name Bailo preferred not to give. The first civil party called to the stand took a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped his eyes. "It was the key to his house. The body was never returned to the family, he told the court. "We don't even have a grave to go to, Mr. President. We have not yet finished our mourning.

El Hadj Hassane is one of dozens of people who disappeared during the Conakry stadium massacre, in which more than 150 people died. Forty-six names of victims have been submitted to the court by the lawyers of the civil parties, who could potentially be called to testify in the coming months.
In Disney+ Korea's newest romance drama, Lee Sung Kyung and Kim Young Kwang become friends and co-workers who have a very complicated relationship with each other.

Through the new work, they will deliver a relatable narrative that will open viewers' eyes about the beautiful and ugly things that love brings in everyone's lives.

'Call It Love' Episode 1: Shim Woo Joo Watches Her World Crumble

The newest melodrama "Call It Love" begins with Shim Woo Joo (Lee Sung Kyung) and Han Dong Jin's (Kim Young Kwang) indirect encounter in a restaurant.

Shim Woo Joo's siblings are also introduced but unlike her, the bunch was more vivacious. It is revealed that their father, whom they had a complicated relationship with, recently died.

In the funeral hall, she meets Ma Hee Ja (Nam Gi Ae), his father's mistress who left a deep scar in her and her siblings' heart. What's worse is that her father's mistress sold their home off.

With this, Shim Woo Joo and her siblings are left alone to vacate the house within a week. She then cries her heart out due to frustration but losing her job is the nail in the coffin.

Thankfully, she lands a part-time job as an assistant at Best Fair with Han Dong Jin. Unbeknownst to her, her new co-worker is the son of her late father's mistress.

At the end of the first episode, Han Dong Jin comes clean and reveals that truth to Shim Woo Joo. Due to her immense hatred, she stalks him to his home and goes through his mail.

Unfortunately for Shim Woo Joo, she gets caught in the act, putting herself in such embarrassment.

Shim Woo Joo resents him for living a great life while she and her siblings need to fend for themselves, especially now that Han Dong Jin's mother sold their house off.

'Call It Love' Episode 2: Shim Woo Joo & Han Dong Jin Start Anew

In episode 2, she fires Han Dong Jin personal questions, which the latter refuses to answer. Due to her frustration, Shim Woo Joo eats her heart out with her best friend Yoon Jun (Sung Joon).

In the next scene, Shim Woo Joo bumps into Han Dong Jin at the grocery store and swears to get their house back. She also reveals that her mother illegally sold their house, despite not knowing the other's relationship with his mother.

At work, Shim Woo Joo is shocked when she hears rumors about Han Dong Jin; according to their colleagues, he embezzled money from his old company.

However, the subject of the rumors don't care at all. He then attends their school reunion, amplifying the issue about his relationship with Kang Min Young (EXID Hani), his ex-girlfriend who cheated on her.

Elsewhere, Shim Woo Joo logs into her boss' computer to send out information about their upcoming fair, making Han Dong Jin's job tenfold harder.

When Shim Woo Joo is cornered to tell the truth after being seen in the company premises the night before, Han Dong Jin rattles another employee out.

It is revealed that someone else leaked information about the company's upcoming events. However, Shim Woo Joo is still fired from her job due to her ill attitude towards her boss.

Han Dong Jin then hires her back the next day when they confirm that Cha Young Min (Seo Dong Won) is the mole inside their company. He then apologizes to Shim Woo Joo, who laughs hysterically at her misfortune.

Meanwhile, a strange man charges at Han Dong Jin and to his surprise, Shim Woo Joo pushes him to the ground, saving Han Dong Jin from harm.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
Jeon Do Yeon, who currently stars in "Crash Course in Romance," surprised the public after her old photos leaked online. Here's how fans are reacting to South Korea's household name.

Jeon Do Yeon Proves Unchanging Beauty in Viral Photos

Jeon Do Yeon is loved for her bright and bold character as Nam Haeng Seon in Netflix's "Crash Course in Romance." But apart from her ongoing drama, the actress is suddenly getting public attention as her past photos circulated online.

Recently, a media outlet revealed some of the stunning images of Jeon Do Yeon during her twenties that made new drama fans' jaws drop for her unchanging beauty. The images are composed of the actress' selfies.

jeon do-yeons film debut for which she won:



- blue dragon award for best new actress

- grand bell award for best new actress

- baeksang for most popular actress



the contact (, 1997) 

directed, co-written by chang yoon-hyun# #jeondoyeon pic.twitter.com/uqFS3IQd5Q   (@hndmaidenonfire) February 20, 2023

The pictures immediately became a hot topic as they exhibited the innocent and charming aura of the celebrity.

What also made fans impressed is her playful side, seemingly featuring the same traits as as Nam Haeng Seon in "Crash Course in Romance."

Jeon Do Yeon Received Compliments From Fans for Her Youthful and Fresh Look

The "Lovers in Prague" star is considered one of South Korea's celebrity goddesses and "It" girl in the 90s, thanks to her beauty and acting skills. With her old photos gone viral, new K-drama fans couldn't get enough of her timeless beauty.

"OMG. She's so pretty." "Jeon Do Yeon had a refreshing vibe." "That's crazy. She had everything, from a cute vibe to an innocent visual." "Jeon Do Yeon's not only beautiful but also took good selfies."

The female star usually stars in the dark genre in which she mainly played heavy roles, but this 2023 she finally succeeded in changing her image into the sweet and bold side of Banchan shop owner Nam Haeng Seon.

Jeon Do Yeon Transforms Into Killer in 'Kill Bok Soon'

While busy with her drama, Jeon Do Yeon is also rumored to make her guest appearance on tvN's variety program "You Quiz on the Block," where she is expected to reunite with her former schoolmate Yoo Jae Suk.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Jeon Do Yeon Praised For Her Character Transformation in 'Crash Course in Romance'

On the other hand, Jeon Do Yeon is gearing up for her immediate comeback on Netflix for the upcoming thriller movie "Kill Bok Soon." She is ready to transform into a mysterious murderer in the new film, which is scheduled to premiere in March.

For now, catch the remaining episodes of "Crash Course in Romance," which runs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:10 p.m. (KST).

What can you say about the viral photos of Jeon Do Yeon? Share your thoughts/replies in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramastars.

KDramastars owns this article.

Shai Collins wrote this.
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly speaks with the media as she arrives for a meeting of NATO foreign ministers at NATO headquarters in Brussels, on Thursday, April 7, 2022. Expanding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization has become a major focus of Parliament's foreign affairs committee as it tours several European countries to study the impact of the war in Ukraine, the committee chair said in an interview in Warsaw Sunday. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Olivier Matthys
Soon after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 they discovered that they could not afford to keep fighting. Massive sanctions reduced the cash Russia had access to and paying what was promised to new recruits soon became more than Russian could afford. Using the old the check is in the mail excuse worked for a while until it didnt when most troops understood the check was never sent and never would be. This is particularly troublesome when it comes to former Russian soldiers who agreed to join the reserves after they left active service. The pay wasnt great and there were some training obligations but many former conscript or volunteer (contract) Russian soldiers tried out the new reserve system and were not surprised that it didnt work. The former Russians soldiers adopted the practice of no pay, no way am I playing your stupid game. In 2019, after several years of effort, Russia had fewer than 5,000 soldiers participating in the active reserve program. That was all the government could pay and accommodate at training facilities. The Russian Defense Ministry expected to have over 80,000 reservists participating in the program but the resources and resourcefulness were not available to make that happen.

In 2021 the Defense Ministry came up with another scheme that was much more selective about which former soldiers were eligible for the new reserve system that aimed to attract and keep over 30,000 reservists. The pay was better, the training was more frequent and reservists signed three year contracts, which released the reservist from any obligations at the end of the contract. This new arrangement attracted about 9,000 qualified men. The program soon failed when word got around that reservists mobilized to fight in Ukraine were not getting the active duty pay their contracts specified.

Not paying promised sums to mobilized or already serving soldiers is a growing problem for Russia because as fewer men agree to serve in the military, the incidences of failure to pay the troops or provide the additional sums for their families goes up. Threats of prosecution of men who do not show up or simply walk away from military service are losing their impact because this is happening to so many newly mobilized and already serving Russian troops. The government does not have the resources to carry out that many prosecutions and the troops know it.

Russia is trying to fight a war it cant afford. Offering pay and other cash benefits to troops that the government cant afford has made it difficult to rebuild the Russian army that was destroyed in the first six months of fighting in Ukraine. Importing munitions from North Korea and Iran is only possible if Russia pays for it. This is being done on a barter basis because sanctions have blocked Russias access to its foreign hard currency assets. North Korea needs food and fuel while Iran needs modern weapons and help with their nuclear weapons program. Helping Iran develop and build nuclear weapons is something that the rest of the world opposes. Putin doesnt seem to consider this a significant obstacle.

Putin wants the war in Ukraine to continue, using whatever military resources Russia can muster. Putin believes that this strategy is one reason why American and European support for Ukraine is weakening because it is expensive and seems to be endless. The Ukrainians insist that if they are supplied with tanks, combat aircraft and continuing supplies of munitions, the weakened Russian forces can be expelled from Ukraine, which for Ukraine means an end to the war. What Russia does after that is another matter that Ukraine and NATO will face together. Putin has repeated his goal of rebuilding the Russian empire. This is something none of the current countries that used to be part of the Soviet Union are willing to accept, even though Russia has nuclear weapons and the potential to rebuild its army if it can cope with all the economic sanctions imposed because of the Ukraine invasion. The cost of dealing with these sanctions has brought more poverty to Russia and less money for Putin to use for his empire rebuilding project.
Kilkenny Public Participation Network (PPN) has today issued an invitation to community and voluntary groups in Kilkenny to join their local PPN and help build a better future for the county.

The call-out comes as a new national brand identity and awareness campaign for Public Participation Networks was launched by Minister for Community Development and Charities, Joe OBrien in Dublin this week.

Each county and city in Ireland has its own PPN. Kilkenny PPN is one of 31 PPNs that have been established in all local authority areas in the State, and its membership stands at 447 organisations. Nationally, more than 18,000 community and voluntary groups are currently members of a PPN.

Public Participation Networks allow local authorities to connect with community groups around their county. PPNs give people a greater say in local government decisions that affect their communities.

Declan Gibbons who is a member of Kilkenny PPN, said:

Joining Kilkenny Public Participation Network is a fantastic way of getting involved in local decision-making and contributing to a thriving community. The groups in our PPN are at the heart of local policymaking and have a voice in the policies that impact our local community.

Kilkenny PPN regularly hosts events and trainings for its members; shares information on funding, grants and proposals or decisions being made in the county. Its also a great opportunity to network and meet other community groups in the area. We want our PPN to be representative of the people of Kilkenny in all their diversity and invite all community and voluntary groups in the county to visit our website and find out how to join us.

Speaking at the launch of the PPNs new national brand identity and awareness campaign, Minister OBrien encouraged volunteer-led group around the country, and particularly young people, to join their local PPN.

Public Participation Networks give communities across Ireland a voice in local decision-making and bring valuable on-the-ground, experience and expertise into local and national policy development.

The strength and impact of PPNs can be seen in how they represented volunteers and community groups within the responses to Covid-19, working with local authorities and state agencies.

Through local action, PPNs also contribute to policymaking at national level, such as the development of the Climate Action Plan 2021, when PPNs hosted and facilitated important local community conversations around the country.

Sean McKeown, Acting CEO of Kilkenny County Council said:

The PPN structures offer Local Authorities a very effective, transparent and open way to collaborate directly with volunteer community groups, who do so much for their localities.

PPNs play an important role, through for example representation on our Strategic Policy Committees and on the Local Community Development Committee, in inputting to the development of all our key policies and strategies, and each Local Authority provides considerable support to their local PPNs in recognition of this.

This campaign will boost the profile of PPNs, which is well-deserved in light of their work.

For further information, visit the website of Kilkenny PPN: www.kilkennyppn.ie
History was made at James Stephens Barracks earlier this month when it hosted an official meeting of Kilkenny County Council.

The decision to hold the meeting in the Barracks was made to celebrate the centenary of The Bloods, the 3rd Infantry Battalion based in Kilkenny.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick, expressed his gratitude to Colonel Gareth Prendergast for facilitating the occasion.

It is a profound and meaningful moment for me to preside over a meeting of the Council within the hallowed walls of Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny, he told those gathered.

We in Kilkenny are conscious and proud of the contribution which the women and men of the 3rd Battalion have made both locally and on foreign shores.

Service in Lebanon, the Golan Heights, and other troubled locations has seen the Irish soldiers bring the best of their national characteristics to bear on the challenging, and sadly  as we have seen recently  the dangerous vocation of peacekeeping.

Colonel Prendergast thanked Cllr Fitzpatrick for his speech and used his time at the podium to highlight the strong connection between the people of Kilkenny and their local Battalion.

He emphasised how important the Barracks is as a source of employment in the city and how it has woven itself into the cultural fabric and spirit of the city.

Colonel Prendergast then emphasised and commended the service of all those who served in the Barracks over the years.

He also highlighted the sacrifices made by servicemen and servicewomen, and paid tribute to all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice serving their country over the years.

Colonel Prendergast then presented Cathaoirleach Pat Fizpatrick with a framed arial photograph of James Stephens Barracks

The Cathaoirleach stated that the photograph will find pride of place in County Hall and serve as a reminder to elected officials of the immense contribution made by the The Bloods to Kilkenny.
Ukraine was invaded by Russia on February 24 of last year, sparking a violent conflict that forced many Ukrainians from their homes and country in search of refuge.

Approximately 1,400 Ukrainians now call Kilkenny home and many of our countys newest citizens showed up on The Parade on Friday to mark the anniversary of the invasion and show their support for their home country.

In attendance to show solidarity was the Mayor of Kilkenny, David Fitzgerald, and Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Pat Fitzpatrick.

While the process of resettlement can be challenging for refugees, many Ukrainians have found a welcoming community in Kilkenny and are contributing to local life in various ways.

They have brought with them their unique customs and traditions, which have been embraced by the local community.

In the space of one short year, the Ukrainian community in Kilkenny has become an integral part of the countys fabric, and their response to the anniversary of the invasion highlights their resilience and determination to support their home country, even from afar.

Ukrainian refugees have also become active members of the local community, contributing to various social initiatives and organisations since arriving here.

The gathering in Kilkenny was just one of many events held throughout Ireland to mark the anniversary of the invasion.



Nationally, the CSO says that as of the week ending February 12, 2023 a total of 74,458 people have arrived from Ukraine.

This is up from the 67,448 Personal Public Service Numbers (PPSNs) issued to individuals from Ukraine under the Temporary Protection Directive on December 11 2022.
An independent review of a service provided by the HSE/South East Community Healthcare has found it as having a vital role in providing therapy for individuals bereaved by suicide and other forms of traumatic bereavement.

The service covers Kilkenny and the South East region.

The review of HSE/South East Community Healthcares Bereavement Counselling Service for Traumatic Deaths was carried out by the National Suicide Research Foundation with funding from the HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention.

HSE/South East Community Healthcares Regional Suicide Resource Office provides the bereavement counselling service for persons over 16 years of age who have been bereaved through sudden traumatic deaths in counties Kilkenny, Waterford, South Tipperary, Carlow and Wexford. The service is free to clients, referral is through a relevant health professional (e.g. your GP) and therapy is provided by HSE/South East Community Healthcare (SECH) contracted, professional, accredited counsellors.

While the service is not unique in providing bereavement counselling, it is unique in its focus on traumatic bereavement and suicide bereavement in particular. In addition, the service is flexible concerning the length and type of therapy provided, along with its integration with other services.

Clients who may not be in a position to avail of therapy through the service itself are signposted or linked to other services within the community. This is in a large part enabled by the service being managed and delivered via the HSE/SECH Regional Suicide Resource Office and there is significant potential to consider expanding the model of service to other regions in Ireland.

Speaking about the publication Service Manager/Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention with HSE/South East Community Healthcare Tracy Nugent said

The Bereavement Counselling Service for Traumatic Deaths service works by utilising existing expertise and resources in the community, via qualified Counsellors. The model of service in the South East addresses two significant barriers in accessing supports, by providing a free service with a minimal waiting time to first appointment.

Throughout the Operational Review, significant improvements in client outcomes were observed. Furthermore, the service was positively rated by key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals who refer clients to the service and Counsellors working with the service. The service also represents good value for money which is outlined fully in the Review.

Bereavement by traumatic deaths  including suicide, homicide, murder-suicide and accidents  can significantly impact on an individuals mental and physical health, increasing risk of depression, complicated grief and suicide. In addition, those who are bereaved by sudden, unnatural or violent death often report higher levels of perceived stigma, as well as other factors including trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), compared with those bereaved by natural causes.

As a consequence, individuals bereaved by a traumatic death may require specialised supports, particularly those tailored to the nature of the death and the mental health conditions of the individual.

People bereaved by suicide, who will account for a large proportion of traumatic deaths, have been identified as a key priority group for suicide prevention in Connecting for Life: Irelands National Strategy to Reduce Suicide, 2015-2024, with specific actions to improve and standardise the availability of tailored supports for those bereaved by suicide. Since 2006, the HSE/South East Community Healthcare Bereavement Counselling Service for Traumatic Deaths has provided counselling support to people bereaved by suicide and other sudden traumatic deaths. This service facilitates health professionals to refer individuals, aged 16 years and over, to therapeutic counselling from trained Counsellors working in the healthcare area.

The Review findings add to the body of literature providing evidence for the need for specialised care for those bereaved via traumatic deaths  including suicide. While therapeutic interventions are also accessible via other services in the region, the short waiting times, no cost implications for clients, direct referral procedures and the facilitation of clients via a skilled service team are key strengths of such a dedicated service. In a policy context, the service provides supports for one of the key priority groups identified in Connecting for Life. In addition, the service has developed comprehensive and useful resources and information for clients ensuring that every client referred to the service receives information support.
Irish naturists are encouraged to apply for a grant to capture and record Ireland's natural history.

The Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan T.D. today (February 27) welcomed applications for the Department of Housing, Heritage and Local Governments grant scheme to ensure Irelands natural history is captured and recorded.

The scheme, managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, aims to help established naturalists recording in Ireland to maintain and enhance their expertise in species identification, and to develop the next generation of natural history recorders.

Grants are available for volunteer, unpaid recorders, or groups, societies and associations of recorders who have limited or no access to financial supports for their work.

This is the fifth year of the grant scheme and it has supported over 70 projects to date.

Grants under the scheme in the past have covered the entire range of Irish natural history including site recording of biological groups (e.g. moths, other terrestrial invertebrates, bats, plants and marine organisms), support for publications and websites and support to purchase specialist equipment.

In 2022, a record number of grants received funding offers and these included:

Surveys of rookeries in County Laois

Funding towards the publication of the Flora of County Wexford

Bee identification courses in County Wicklow

Acoustic survey of Nathusius Pipistrelle bat in County Cavan

Trialling non-invasive survey techniques for Irish Stoat

Insect survey in Killarney National Park

Skate and ray surveys of Tralee Bay

The data generated by these recording exercises is utilised by the NPWS to inform its understanding of the distribution and ecology of many species and to assess their status. In turn, it informs advice on nature conservation objectives and practical measures to protect species and habitats.

Speaking about the news, Minister Noonan said, "Im delighted to announce that this popular scheme is open to applications again this year and I hope we see plenty of applicants from all over Waterford. Weve seen some great work done in local communities through this scheme and Im proud to support the work of our specialist recorders with these grants.

"I hope, given the increased time people have spent engaging with nature over recent years that more nature enthusiasts will apply for this funding and join this vibrant network.

"This scheme also supports the work of the NPWS in recording many aspects of individual species and provides great value to our Department in establishing useful data to support conservation.

Applications should be submitted by 5pm on March 31, 2023.

The form and further details can be found at https://www.npws.ie/news/npws- grants-small-recording- projects-2023

Application forms will ONLY be accepted by email submission to biodiversitypolicy@housing.gov.ie.
China brings opportunities for the world with its own development: head of Iraqi Communist Party

09:02, February 27, 2023 By Huang Peizhao, Han Xiaoming ( People's Daily

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, walks with foreign guests to attend the opening ceremony of CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 1, 2017. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

"I had the honor to listen to the important speech delivered by general secretary Xi Jinping of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee. His deep thoughts, open vision and broad mind impressed me very much," said Raed Fahmi, secretary of the Central Committee of the Iraqi Communist Party (ICP), recalling his meeting with Xi during a visit to China in 2017.

The CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting was hosted by the International Department of the CPC Central Committee from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3, 2017. Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended the opening ceremony and delivered a keynote speech.

The meeting was joined by over 600 representatives from nearly 300 political parties and organizations in more than 120 countries.

"It was a world event of historic significance. General secretary Xi's keynote speech charted the course for future development with a global vision," said Fahmi.

What impressed him the most was Xi's remarks that the CPC will continue to uphold global peace and tranquility, promote common development for all and promote mutual enrichment among civilizations.

"The CPC has made friends all over the world and continues to contribute to human progress," Fahmi noted.

Inspired by the fruitful results achieved at the high-level meeting, Fahmi shared his experience of participation in an article published in Iraqi media.

He said the equal and friendly dialogue between the CPC and world political parties was definitely of important significance. The CPC upholds openness and inclusiveness, shares governance experiences and promotes inter-civilization exchanges and mutual learning with political parties of other countries, which vividly mirrors the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, Fahmi said in the article.

Raed Fahmi, secretary of the Central Committee of the Iraqi Communist Party (Photo provided by Raed Fahmi)

The ICP leader has visited China twice. Following the development of China for a long time, Fahmi had a more profound understanding of China's achievements and the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics when he walked on the streets of Chinese cities.

"China's huge achievements are reflected in its rapid urban and rural development, in its beautiful ecology and in the confidence of the Chinese people," he said.

The successful development path indicates the obvious institutional advantages of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and China's exploration and practice for socialist construction is attracting worldwide attention, Fahmi added.

Today, Iraq sees urgent tasks to maintain security and stability, accelerate development reconstruction, as well as improve people's livelihood.

Living a happy life is the primary human right. Fahmi noticed that the CPC has followed a people-centered development philosophy, and implemented a series of major policies and measures to safeguard and improve people's livelihood and resolve difficulties of them.

"As a result, the Chinese people have gained a strong sense of fulfillment, happiness, and security," Fahmi told People's Daily.

He spoke highly of China's success in eradicating absolute poverty and building a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

"China has achieved the poverty alleviation goal set on the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule. It is actively launching international cooperation on poverty alleviation, fulfilling its international responsibility in this regard and providing assistance to other developing countries to the full extent of its ability. It is an active promoter of global poverty alleviation," Fahmi said.

He added that relevant countries should learn from China's poverty alleviation experience especially when the number of global impoverished people is constantly growing due to COVID-19, the climate crisis and regional conflicts.

Iraq receives a batch of COVID-19 vaccines donated by the Chinese government at the Baghdad International Airport, Aug. 12, 2021, local time. (Photo courtesy of the Chinese Embassy in Iraq)

China has proposed and is practicing the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, bringing opportunities for the world with its own development, Fahmi said. He believes that China and Iraq's joint effort in building the Belt and Road Initiative is an example of the two countries upholding the vision and achieving mutual benefit and common progress.

Today, the cooperation projects between the two countries cover multiple aspects such as the oil industry, communication technology and infrastructure construction, which is important for Iraq's reconstruction.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, China has dispatched medical expert teams to Iraq and provided batches of medical materials and vaccines to the country, which boosted Iraq's confidence in fighting the disease, Fahmi told People's Daily.

He noted that China, launching wide international anti-pandemic cooperation and actively building a global community of health for all, has made prominent contributions to safeguarding global public health security.

China is always committed to promoting international justice and equity, and to safeguarding and practicing real multilateralism. It has forged a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation, promoted the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security among nations, and proposed the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative.

"China has kept its words and set an example for the rest of the world," said Fahmi, citing Xi's remarks that "Major countries should act like major countries. They should provide more global public goods, take up their due responsibilities and live up to people's expectations."

Fahmi extended his congratulations on the success of the 20th CPC National Congress. "The ICP attaches high importance to its friendly relations with the CPC, admires the remarkable achievements made by the Chinese people and appreciates the selfless support and assistance for Iraq from the Chinese side. We are willing to continue deepening exchanges and cooperation with the CPC and work for further development of Iraq-China strategic partnership," he said.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
A promising future lies ahead for two Kilkenny city schools as they set their eyes towards amalgamation.

St Johns Junior School and St Johns Senior School voiced their shared consensus for amalgamation to Minister of Education Norma Foley last Friday during her whistle-stop tour of Kilkenny.

In total the Minister visited five local schools, also calling into CBS Primary, Kilkenny Model School and School of the Holy Spirit.

The timing of the Ministers visit was incredibly significant, taking place on the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

It was perhaps most fitting that she was greeted on her arrival into the Marble City by the Ukrainian students of St Johns Junior School.

The staff and pupils of the school set the tone for the visit, issuing a warm and sincere welcome to the visiting committee.

The value of this visit for St Johns Junior and Senior Schools cannot be understated.

Despite the schools success in delivering quality education to their pupils, it was made clear to the Minister that they are currently pushed for space and resources.

Upon her arrival at Saint Johns Senior School, Principal Brian Roche gave the Minister a comprehensive tour and overview of the schools site on Ballybough Street and its potential for future development.

When quizzed by the media, the Minister recognised the need for additional space in both schools and commended the universal consensus of both schools towards future amalgamation.

She also pledged her support for the amalgamation and for the development of new school facilities on Ballybough Street.

A positive meeting was then held between the Minister and representatives of both schools as part of the visit, according to Mary OHanlon, Chairperson of St John's Junior School.

Minister Foley further confirmed that she is actively working with the Planning and Building Unit of the Department of Education towards developing a long term amalgamation solution that will fit the needs of both schools.

The School Capital Appraisal Section of the Departments Planning and Building Unit will be responsible for processing the application from the two city schools for major capital funding.

The two schools are hopeful that quick progress can be made in this regard, and school representatives confirmed that they are pushing for the timely acquisition of that relevant capital funding.

Minister Foley commended both schools for their spirit of inclusion on what was a hugely symbolic day.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, here in London on February 22, to discuss the new deal over the post-Brexit trade rules in Northern Ireland.
House Republican committees are vowing to launch investigations into the toxic train disaster in East Palestine, Ohio, multiple committee aides told CNN.
Angola, IN (46703)

Today

Periods of rain. Becoming windy in the afternoon. High 64F. Winds SSW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch. Higher wind gusts possible..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early with periods of light rain and snow later at night. Low 33F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of precip 40%. Higher wind gusts possible.
BIGHIT MUSIC has announced the cancellation of BTS J-Hope's military enlistment postponement and his solo release preparations. After seeing the announcement, ARMYs demanded a "J-Hope album" from the company.

Here's are the full details.

BIGHIT MUSIC Announces BTS J-Hope's Enlistment Postponement Cancellation, Solo Single 'On The Street'

On February 26, BIGHIT MUSIC uploaded an official statement regarding J-Hope's military enlistment and solo release.

The notice was made on Weverse, informing fans that J-Hope has began the first steps of his enlistment process by terminating his postponement. The agency also assured netizens that more updates will be revealed when necessary.

BIGHIT MUSIC also advised fans to support J-Hope until his military service has concluded. They also expressed support for the idol in his endeavors.

Shortly after the announcement was made, a follow-up notice was also posted on Weverse. The continuation contained information regarding J-Hope's upcoming solo single, "On The Street." According to BIGHIT MUSIC, the song will contain J-Hope's candid feelings towards ARMYs and present his street dance roots.

J-Hope will also tell fans his origins, when he realized his dream to become an artist and the bond he has with ARMYs.

BIGHIT MUSIC added that J-Hope's new music would mean a lot to fans, and instructed them to look forward on his upcoming solo single.

'On The Street' will be released on Friday, March 3, 2 p.m. KST.

Read the full announcement below:

"Hello, This is BIGHIT MUSIC. We are happy to inform you that BTS member j-hope will be releasing a solo single "on the street". J-hope wrote the track to share his candid feelings toward his fans. The title "on the street" refers to j-hope's roots-street dance-from which his dream to become an artist began, and the path the artist and fans will continue to walk together. We hope that j-hope's "on the street" serves as a meaningful gift to everyone who supports the artist. Please look forward to j-hope's new song! Release date and time: 2 PM, Friday, March 3, 2023 (KST) Thank you."

ARMYs Demand J-Hope's Album From BIGHIT MUSIC: 'Why release digital single only?'

Upon seeing the announcement, ARMYs were frustrated with "On The Street" being released only in digital. ARMYs demanded a physical album from BIGHIT MUSIC, expressing how much J-Hope deserves one before enlisting.

They also recalled how J-Hope didn't get to have a physical album in his previous album "Jack In The Box." Others pleaded that it's not too late to give J-Hope a "real album."

See their comments below:

"Give me an actual album. Why are you dishing again?" "Requesting the release of J-Hope's first solo album 'Jack In The Box' as a physical album CD. It's not too late, so please, even now." "Why does Hobi only get to release a digital single before enlisting in the military?" "Please give me an actual album before J-Hope goes to the army!"

However, others were excited for J-Hope's upcoming song:

I'M READY



J-HOPE SOLO SINGLE

HOPE ON THE STREET

ON THE STREET BY J-HOPE#OnTheStreetpic.twitter.com/P6vPAQAiTP  ss  FACE  on the street  slow (@btssomma) February 26, 2023

SO PROUD OF YOU J-HOPE, I LOVE YOU HOBI 



J-HOPE COMEBACK

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New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI/SRV): Taking into consideration the depleting greenery in the state, Pune-based Shirke's Ventures, a well-known Kitchen and Wardrobe manufacturing company will extend financial help to Satara-based Sahyadri Devrai Foundation, a leading environmental NGO , for the next 10 years, to take the necessary steps to restore biodiversity and give back to nature and the society. This financial help will be given to Sahyadri Devrai, led by acclaimed actor Sayaji Shinde, in every quarter of a financial year, and the minimum amount per year would be Rs. 15 lakhs.

For this, Shirke's Ventures, as a part of its CSR activity accordingly, has signed an MoU with the Sahyadri Devrai Foundation, which is known for converting barren lands in Maharashtra into dense forests by planting various indigenous trees and doing other environmental work. The MoU was signed at Shirke's Ventures office at Bhandarkar Road in the presence of actor Sayaji Shinde, Kiran Shirke, MD of Shirke's Ventures, Amol Shirke, JMD of Shirke's Ventures, Kaustabh Hinge, Managing Director of Shirke WinDoors, Tejal Ingale, Business Head, Platino Series, and Abhishek Kharosekar, CEO of Shirke's Media Pvt. Ltd.

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Speaking on the occasion, Sayaji Shinde said, "The work of the Sahyadri Devrai Foundation started with the belief that the first commitment should be towards one's own mother and the second towards Mother Earth." We are attempting to raise awareness among citizens with the goal of having everyone plant trees in proportion to their age. We are delighted to have organisations like Shirke's Ventures join us in this effort. This will further strengthen our mission to reach out to as many citizens as possible.

Kiran Shirke said, "As citizens, we always wanted to do something in regards to social work." "Sayaji Shinde's work towards environment conservation is noteworthy, and considering its benefit to future generations, we, on behalf of Shirke's Kitchen & Wardrobes and Shirke's Windows under Shirke's Ventures, also decided to participate with his organization."

Also Read | Holi 2023: Mumbai Police Issue Prohibitory Order; Say Obscene Songs, Slogans a Punishable Offence.

For more information, please visit: http://www.shirkesventures.com/ or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iA9KqM8_NL8

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

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Manish Sisodia during his visit to Rajghat ahead of CBI questioning (Photo/ANI)

New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI): Aam Aadmi Party to hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case.

AAP's national General Secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday.

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Taking to Twitter, Pathak on Sunday said, "The great Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who has shaped the future of lakhs of children of the country, has been arrested in a fake case. Against this, the Aam Aadmi Party will protest across the country tomorrow."

The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party's Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm om Monday.

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It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat's Gandhinagar, Haryana's Rohtak, Noida, etc.

Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation after eight hours of questioning in the now-scrapped excise policy case.

Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

"Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal's rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP.

Sisodia also visited Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Rajghat before his arrest.

Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Manish is innocent. His arrest is dirty politics. There is a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Manish."

"Everyone is watching. People are understanding everything. People will respond to this. This will boost our spirits further. Our struggle will get stronger," he added in the tweet (roughly translated from Hindi). (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Pulwama(Jammu and Kashmir)[India], February 27 (ANI): ADGP Kashmir Zone of Jammu and Kashmir Police Vijay Kumar today visited the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir to review the prevailing law and order situation in the area.

The visit comes in the aftermath of the latest target killing in Pulwama, in which Sanjay Sharma, a Kashmiri Hindu resident of Achan, was shot dead by terrorists when he was on his way to the local market.

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"ADGP Kashmir Shri Vijay Kumar today visited district Pulwama where he held a detailed security review meeting in which officers of Police and other security forces participated," said the press release issued by J&K Police department.

In the security meeting officers including Army's Sector Commander, DIG Police, DIG CRPF, SSP Pulwama, Army's CO and CRPF's Commandants and other officers were present. ADGP Kashmir was briefed about the overall security measures put in place by the participating officers.

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During the meeting, ADGP Kashmir imparted upon them to implement of additional security measures in order to prevent such terror incidents.

ADGP Vijay Kumar also underlined the importance of human intelligence operations in the review meeting.

"While instructing the officers present in the meeting, the ADGP Kashmir stressed to enhance counter-terror operations in Pulwama District. He also directed police officers present in the meeting to generate more humint & techint and further launch counter-terrorist operations along with security forces. Besides, the process for identifying hybrid terrorists and taking appropriate actions were also discussed in the meeting" said the official statement.

It has to be noted that this is the first attack on a Hindu civilian in the last four months. Last year, there were a number of targeted killings in Kashmir. Several of the casualties were migrant workers or Pandits from Kashmir. (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, Feb 27 (PTI) The Delhi High Court on Monday said the Centre's Agnipath scheme falls in the ambit of "public interest" and aspirants cannot claim any right to seek recruitment on account of their participation in processes initiated under notifications issued before the introduction of the new policy.

The recruitment process can be changed by the State midway if it is in public interest, a bench headed by Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma said while dismissing a bunch of petitions relating to the recruitment process for the armed forces under certain previous advertisements.

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The court rejected the petitioners' contention that they lost opportunities and suffered on account of the sudden change in policy, and said the government, in this case, cannot be held to be bound by the recruitment process initiated by it.

The objective of the scheme, noted the court, is to reduce the age of forces, which will make it leaner, agile and will be greatly beneficial for border security and such objectives cannot be said to be arbitrary, whimsical or mala fide.

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(The court has) reached the unequivocal conclusion that the Impugned Scheme (Agnipath) is not arbitrary, capricious or devoid of reason. On the contrary, it squarely falls within the ambit of public interest'... A recruitment process can be changed by the State midway if the same is in public interest, said the bench, also comprising Justice Subramonium Prasad.

It has also been stated that the Impugned Scheme, by reducing the average age of soldiers, will bring our Armed Forces at par with other nations, as the average age of Armed Forces across the world is 26 years.

"The stated objective of the Impugned Scheme is to have a blend of young Jawans, Sailors or Airmen between the age of 18-25 years as Agniveers, supervised by an experienced regular cadre having the age of 26 years. To achieve this goal, the State has also been consistently decreasing the age bracket of officers, said the court in its 55-page verdict.

The Agnipath scheme, unveiled on June 14, 2022, lays out rules for the recruitment of youth in the armed forces.

According to these rules, those between 17-and-a-half and 21 years of age are eligible to apply and they would be inducted for a four-year tenure. The scheme allows 25 per cent of them to be granted regular service subsequently. After the scheme was unveiled, protests erupted in several states against the scheme.

Later, the government extended the upper age limit to 23 years for recruitment in 2022.

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No relief for those named in selection list but did not get appointment letters

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Several petitioners, who sought recruitment under the Common Entrance Examination (CEE) and a 2019 notification for the Indian Army and Air Force, respectively, had approached the high court with a grievance the recruitment processes for several posts were halted at the fag end and subsequently cancelled on account of the introduction of Agnipath scheme, which effectively nullified their recruitment.

The petitioners argued that under the erstwhile process, they have already been shortlisted and were included in the provisional list but appointment Letters were not issued to them.

The court said that it is well settled that individuals who were merely waiting to be issued appointment letters cannot claim to have a right to gain employment.

There was no vested right in claiming appointment even after a selected list has been declared, and secondly on account of the larger public interest weighing strongly in favour of the Agnipath Scheme.

"The petitioners have no vested right to seek such recruitment, and secondly, that promissory estoppel and legitimate expectation find themselves severely restricted by the overarching concerns of public interest, said the court.

Due to this, this court finds that the Petitioners have no vested right to claim that the recruitment under the 2019 Notification and CEE Examination needs to be completed.

"Furthermore, both promissory estoppel and legitimate expectation cannot be applied in the instant case to force the Government to complete the recruitment keeping in mind larger public interest, it added.

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Navy continued recruitment through old process in 'national interest': HC

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The court also observed that it did not find any force in the petitioners' stand that if the Indian Navy could continue recruitment under the earlier notifications, so could the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

The court noted that the recruitment process for the Indian Navy continued in national interest keeping in mind the manpower shortage.

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Recruitment rallies are 'fast-track' method, different from regular process: HC

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The court also refused to accept the petitioners' stand that they should be treated at par with those individuals who were recruited through rallies.

With respect to the Indian Army, the rally recruitment was undertaken to increase intake of the people from tribal and hilly areas in the Armed Forces so as to maintain a demographic balance, rallies were conducted at various locations in the country to recruit young people in the Armed Forces, the court said.

The method of recruitment of soldiers by way of written examination and the method of recruitment of soldiers by way of rallies are different and the time taken in both the processes is also different;

"While the rallies are a fast-track method of recruitment, the regular mode of recruitment was multi-pronged, and took longer, especially during the pandemic.

"By the time the normal recruitment process in the Army was concluded, the government had already taken the policy decision to bring in the new Agnipath Scheme, stated the court.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chennai (Tamil Nadu)[India], February 27 (ANI): Union Minister of State for Fisheries L Murugan on Monday said he went to Sri Lanka last week and had talks pertaining to the Indian fishermen attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy personnel on February 23. "All fishermen from India were brought back safely from Sri Lanka," the MoS said.After attending a meeting in the city, the MoS told reporters, "There is a demand to bring back our Indian fisherman's boats captured in Sri Lanka. Our MEA Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar has already raised this issue with Sri Lanka."

The MoS also said, "We are in talks with Sri Lanka on it. Soon a joint-level committee with a ministerial-level meeting in April month will happen and steps will be taken to get back our Indian fishing boats from Sri Lanka."

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The MoS said, "We are already involved in this and bringing the fishermen safely home." Murugan added, "If a single fisherman is not there, due process is taken up to bring him back." Six Tamil Nadu fishermen were allegedly attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy."Six fishermen belonging to Tharangambadi and Mayiladuthurai district had ventured into the sea for fishing on February 21 from the Tharangambadi fishing hamlet. But, as they were engaged in fishing in the traditional sea waters, they were brutally attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy personnel at 4:30 am on February 23," Chief Minister M K Stalin said on Friday. The CM added, "They have also taken away the fishing tools, engine, two batteries and GPS (global positioning system) equipment. The five fishermen injured in the attack have been admitted to a government hospital, Tharangambadi, for treatment. This attack is a blatant violation of all international norms and conventions." (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mumbai, February 27: The Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court has granted anticipatory bail to a man accused of molesting a minor girl by holding her hand, saying the victim's statement indicated no "sexual intent".

Justice Bharati Dangre allowed the pre-arrest bail plea of the accused, an auto rickshaw driver, on February 10. The detailed order was made available on Monday. Bombay High Court Says Labeling Husband As Womaniser, Alcoholic Without Proving Allegations Sans Proof Cruelty.

The father of the 17-year-old girl had lodged a complaint against the accused at a police station in Yavatmal after which the autorickshaw driver was booked under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code for molestation. As per the complainant, his daughter had travelled in the autorickshaw of the accused for some time to go to college and tuition. Bombay High Court Says 'Stray Dogs Will Not Be Aggressive If Given Food And Little Care'.

After she stopped going by his autorickshaw, the accused used to follow her, despite her strong protest over this. On November 1, 2022, the accused held her hand and expressed her liking for her when she refused to sit pillion on his motorcycle, the complaint stated.

The accused wanted to drop her home, but she desisted the attempt and rushed away from the spot, the complainant told police. "From the accusations that are levelled, it can be seen, prima facie, there is no case of any sexual harassment as it is not the case of the prosecution that the applicant held her hand with any sexual intent," the court said in its order.

"Assuming for a moment he expressed his liking for her, since there is no sexual intent indicated from the statement of the victim girl, prima facie, the accused deserves protection from arrest," the court said. The court warned the accused that he shall not repeat the act and the protection conferred on him would be withdrawn if he did.

(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, Feb 27 (PTI) The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) on Monday set May 3 as the deadline for subscribers to opt for a higher pension.

The Supreme Court on November 4 allowed another change for employees who were existing EPS members as on September 1, 2024, to contribute up to 8.33 per cent of their actual salaries - as against 8.33 per cent of pensionable salary capped at Rs 15,000 a month - towards pension.

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The apex court gave a four-month window to enable opting for higher pensions. The deadline accordingly should have been around March 3, 2023, but EPFO only last week came out with the procedure for opting for higher pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS).

"The joint option for employees who were in service prior to September 1, 2014, and continued to be in service on or after September 1, 2014, but could not exercise joint option under the Employees' Pension Scheme can do so now on or before May 3, 2023," the EPFO said on its website.

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At present, both employees and employers contribute 12 per cent of the employee's basic salary, dearness allowance and retaining allowance, if any, to the employee provident fund or EPF.

The employee's entire contribution goes to EPF, while the 12 per cent contribution by the employer is split as 3.67 per cent to EPF and 8.33 per cent to EPS.

The Government of India contributes 1.16 per cent to an employee's pension, while employees do not contribute to the pension scheme.

EPFO said, "online facility for filing joint option is coming soon".

Earlier, there were apprehensions that March 3, 2023, is the last date for opting for a higher pension.

Last week, EPFO came out with a procedure to enable subscribers and their employers to jointly apply for a higher pension under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS).

In November 2022, the Supreme Court upheld the Employees' Pension (Amendment) Scheme 2014. The EPS amendment of August 22, 2014, had raised the pensionable salary cap to Rs 15,000 a month from Rs 6,500 a month and allowed members along with their employers to contribute 8.33 per cent of their actual salaries (if it exceeded the cap) towards EPS.

In an office order, the EPFO had provided for dealing with the ''Joint Option Form'' by field offices of the body. EPFO stated that "a facility will be provided for which URL (unique resource location) will be informed shortly. Once received, the regional PF commissioner shall put an adequate notice on the notice board and banners for wider public information".

It provided that each application will be registered, digitally logged and the receipt number will be provided to the applicant. It further stated that the office in-charge of the regional provident fund office concerned shall examine each case of joint option on higher salary and intimate the decision to the applicant through e-mail/post and later through SMS also.

It also provided that any grievance by the applicant can be registered on EPFiGMS (grievance portal) after submission of his/her joint option form and payment of due contributions, if any.

The order stated that these directions are being issued in compliance with the order of Supreme Court on November 4, 2022. EPFO has asked its field offices to provide an option for higher pension to eligible subscribers in accordance with the Supreme Court order.

According to the EPFO circular on December 29, 2022, the central government has directed to implement the directions in the order. The apex court had given all EPS members, as on September 1, 2014, six months to opt for the amended scheme.

The apex court in its order gave four more months to eligible subscribers to opt for higher pension under EPS-95.

The court had also struck down the requirement in the 2014 amendments mandating employee contribution of 1.16 per cent of the salary exceeding Rs 15,000 per month. This will facilitate the subscribers to contribute higher to the scheme and get enhanced benefits accordingly.

The EPFO circular had also provided for the higher pension option for those eligible subscribers who either contributed on actual wages higher than Rs 5,000 or Rs 6,500 per month prevalent threshold pensionable salary or exercised their option for higher pension or their request for higher pension was declined by EPFO authorities before the amendment to EPS-95 in 2014.

The eligible subscribers would have to apply jointly with their employer for the enhanced benefit in the application form prescribed by the commissioner and all other required documents like joint declaration etc.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
BUHLENI  Could have rumours of a possible financial incentive been the cause of the throngs of women who attended the Buganu Festival at Buhleni?

Even though no figures were made available, some of those who attended the festival and were asked to share their thoughts on the high turnout said this could have been due to the circulating rumours, that they may get a cash incentive. There were talks of the women getting money, just like libutfo did during the Incwala Ceremony but these were simply rumours because nothing official was communicated, said one of the interviewed women.

Numbers

Another chipped in to state that this was simply a rumour but it may have influenced some of the women to turn up in numbers. His Majesty the King announced during the Incwala Ceremony that libutfo would be getting incentives for attending the cultural event. This resulted in some of libutfo gathering at Nkhanini where they went to claim their promised incentives.The end of the Buganu Ceremony at Buhleni means that the King is now expected to commission Lutsango to Hlane Royal Residence for the second leg of the Buganu Festival. Meanwhile, the regiment was yesterday given food parcels after attending the Buganu Festival at Buhleni.

Items

The food items included mealie-meal, beans, cooking oil, soup and chicken portions. They were given the food parcels to take home upon departure from Buhleni Royal Residence. Meanwhile, medical practitioners at Mkhuzweni Health Centre and those who were stationed at Buhleni for the Buganu Festival, said no deaths were reported as a result of the stampede for food on Saturday. This follows allegations that four members of the Lutsango regiment had died during the stamped, including a child.There were no fatalities; we also do not have any patients admitted from Saturdays incident. Injured Lutsango, most of whom had sprained their ankles or something, were treated and discharged, said a medical practitioner at Mkhuzweni Health Centre.

Medical

Medical practitioners at Piggs Peak Government Hospital, which this publication also paid a visit to, revealed in their records that no patient from the Buganu Festival was brought to the hospital on Saturday. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati said nothing had changed from the statement the police made on Saturday after the stampede incident. The police on Saturday could only confirm that seven people were injured and taken to hospital, where they were treated and discharged. Chaos erupted on Saturday, resulting in a stampede for food that left some women injured.
Gandhinagar, Feb 27 (PTI) The Gujarat Assembly on Monday passed a bill to amend an Act to regularise unauthorised constructions in urban areas by collecting "impact fee" from owners, which also empowered the government to extend the period for filing applications to regularise unauthorised constructions.

Although the Aam Aadmi Party, which has five MLAs in the 182-member House, supported the "Gujarat Regularisation of Unauthorised Development (Amendment) Bill, 2023", it was passed by a majority vote of BJP legislators as the opposition Congress refused to extend support.

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"The Gujarat Regularisation of Unauthorised Development (Amendment) Bill, 2023, was brought to empower the government to extend the period, through a notification, for making an application to regularise unauthorised construction," as per the bill document.

Last December, immediately after the new BJP government was elected to power, the "Gujarat Regularisation of Unauthorised Development Bill-2022" was passed unanimously with Congress and AAP extending support.

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The bill, which became an Act after Governor Acharya Devvrat gave assent, replaced an ordinance issued by the previous BJP government in October for the regularisation of unauthorised constructions in cities and towns.

The Act provides for the regularisation of unauthorised constructions within the jurisdictions of municipal corporations, urban development authorities and municipalities on payment of an "impact fee".

The provisions of the Act apply to any unauthorised construction done before October 1, 2022. Owners of such properties were supposed to apply for regularisation through online as well as offline mode, said Gujarat Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs minister Rushikesh Patel while tabling the amendment bill.

"In the ordinance, it was stated that people wanting to regularise their structures are required to apply within four months, starting October 17. As the four-month period expired on February 16, we cannot accept new applications," said Patel, adding that only 57,000 applications were received during the four-month window given in the ordinance, which later became law.

He said one of the reasons behind "very few" applications being received was the model code of conduct kicking in almost immediately after the promulgation of the ordinance in October for the Assembly polls, held two months later.

The minister said people had complained that the four-month period was too short for filing applications.

"Now, through this amendment bill, we are inserting a new clause in the Act which says that the state government can extend, by notification, the period for making an application for regularisation of unauthorised construction. This way, we will not be required to bring a new ordinance or amend the existing Act in the future for this purpose," said Patel.

Senior Congress MLA Arjun Modhwadia alleged the state government was forced to bring such Acts and amendments because it has failed to control the menace of illegal constructions.

He said this amendment will promote corrupt practices among officials and help only those who are involved in illegal construction.

Another senior Congress MLA Shailesh Parmar said the opposition party will support the bill only if the government declares a final cut-off date for accepting the applications and closes the window for any new applications made after that date.

AAP MLA Umesh Makwana suggested that the government exempt schools and other such "public service" structures from paying any fee for regularising their unauthorised structures.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Locals at the last rites of slain Kashmiri Pandit Sanjay Sharma. (Photo/ANI)

Pulwama (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], February 27 (ANI): Hundreds of Kashmiris turned out for the last rites of Kashmiri Pandit Sanjay Sharma, who was shot dead by terrorists at a marketplace in Pulwama on February 26.

Terrorists attacked and fatally shot Sharma when he was on his way to the local market in Pulwama on Sunday.

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Senior police officers in the Pulwama district also attended the cremation ceremony of the slain security guard.

A police officer said Sharma was shot dead by terrorists in Achan area of Kashmir's Pulwama district on Sunday morning.

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A critically injured Sharma was rushed to a nearby hospital, with the help of locals. However, he succumbed to his bullet injuries.

Earlier, suspected terrorists had opened fire on Asif Ganai, a local, outside a mosque in the Anantnag district. The man, however, survived the attack.

Meanwhile, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti slammed the BJP at the Cenrre over the killing of the Kashmiri Pandit in Pulwama district.

Mufti said, "BJP has failed in protecting the lives of our minorities."

"BJP has failed in protecting the lives of minorities here. They only use minorities to project an illusion of normalcy in the Valley," Mufti tweeted on Sunday.

She also added that the BJP uses such incidents to put a stain on the "image of Muslims in the country".

"BJP use these types of incidents to degrade the image of Muslims in the country. I condemn this act. This is not the behaviour of the Kashmiri people. All these acts show the failure of the government," the PDP chief 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 [India], February 27 (ANI): Over 38.68 per cent voter turnout was recorded in Nagaland till 11 am, as polling began amid tight security on Monday, the Election Commission informed.

The ongoing polls would seal the electoral fates of 183 candidates across parties.

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The highest voter turnout was recorded at 49.44 per cent, in the Pughoboto Assembly segment.

Earlier on Monday, Nagaland Chief Minister and Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party candidate, Neiphiu Rio, cast his vote in the Kohima district.

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Rio is contesting the Northern Angami-I seat in the Kohima district and is up against Congress's Seyievilie Chachu.

Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Yanthungo Patton cast his vote at Riphyim Old III constituency.

The polling began in 59 Assembly constituencies at 7 am this morning amid tight security. The voting will conclude at 4 pm.

BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi had been declared winner uncontested from Zunheboto district's Akuluto constituency after his opponent from the Congress, N Khekashe Sumi, pulled out of the race on the last day for withdrawal of nominations, which was February 10.

The BJP is contesting in alliance with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), its old alliance partner in the 2018 Assembly polls as well.

The BJP is, however, a junior partner in the alliance, having agreed to a seat-sharing ratio of 20:40 in the state. The Congress and Naga People's Front are contesting in 23 and 22 seats respectively. The CPI is contesting on 1, NCP on 12, NPP 12, RPP 1, JD(U) 7, LJP (Ram Vilas) 15, RPI (Athawale) 9, RJD 3, and Independents 19 seats.

The party had forged an alliance with the NDPP in 2018 and had successfully formed an alliance government with the backing of Janata Dal (United) and an Independent. The BJP had won 12 seats while NDPP had registered a win on the 17 seats, while the JD(U) clinched 1 seat.

There are a total of 13,17,632 electorate in Nagaland, of which 6,61,489 are men and 6,56,143 are women.

A total of 2,351 polling stations have been set up in the state.

According to the Election Commission, 305 companies from various security forces have been deployed at the polling stations across the state to ensure a smooth and fair voting process.

The counting of votes will take place on March 2 along with Tripura and Meghalaya. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kohima, Feb 27 (PTI) A voter turnout of over 12 per cent was recorded in the Nagaland Assembly elections till 9 am on Monday with the polling process being peaceful in the first two hours, an official said.

Voting began at 7 am with over 13 lakh electors set to decide the electoral fate of 183 candidates.

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Polling percentage is 12.19 per cent till 9 am. Voting is peaceful as of now, the Election Commission official said.

The nominees are contesting in 59 out of 60 seats, as the Akuluto seat in Zunheboto district was won uncontested by BJP nominee and sitting MLA Kazheto Kinimi.

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Polling will continue till 4 pm, while counting of votes will be on March 2.

The ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the BJP are contesting the polls on a 40:20 seat-sharing basis. The Congress, which ruled the state till 2003 and does not have any member in the current House, has fielded 23 aspirants.

The NDPP-BJP combine is seeking a mandate for the second term, with Neiphiu Rio as the chief ministerial candidate of the alliance.

The NPF, which won 26 seats in the last assembly polls, has fielded candidates in 22 seats, but one of them withdrew, leaving 21 in the fray.

Nineteen nominees are contesting as Independents.

The electors include 6,47,523 male and 6,49,876 female voters, who are eligible to exercise their franchise in 2,291 polling stations.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Shillong, February 27: Polling began in 59 of 60 assembly constituencies in Meghalaya at 7 am on Monday as 21.6 lakh voters are eligible to seal the electoral fate of 369 candidates, with the ruling National People's Party fighting to retain power and the BJP, Trinamool Congress and other regional parties vying to bring about a change in the government. Voting Begins for 60-member Nagaland Assembly.

Voting is underway at 3,419 polling stations, of which 640 have been categorised as vulnerable' and 323 as critical', Chief Electoral Officer F R Kharkongor said. Polling will continue till 4 pm. Thirty-six of the 369 candidates are women, with the largest number of 10 women candidates being put up by the Congress. Polling in Sohiong assembly constituency has been adjourned due to the death of one of the candidates.

Over 19,000 polling personnel and 119 companies of CAPFs have been deployed in polling stations. They have been backed by state policemen to maintain law and order, the CEO said. Tamil Nadu: Polling for Erode East Bypoll Begins.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma is contesting from South Tura constituency where he will lock horns with militant-turned politician Bernard Marak.

Leader of Opposition and TMC leader Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats  Songsak and Tikrikilla. His wife D D Shira is also in the fray. The Congress and the BJP are contesting 59 seats, while the NPP has put up nominees in 56 constituencies, the TMC in 57 and the UDP in 46.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kolkata, Feb 27 (PTI) Trinamool Congress on Monday lashed out at Governor C V Ananda Bose over his remarks against the state government and said the Raj Bhawan occupant is fast following the footsteps of his predecessor Jadgeep Dhankhar as a "cadre of BJP".

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The TMC criticism came on the back of Bose's statement on Sunday in which he termed the attack on Union Minister Nitish Pramanik as "deplorable" and said that he will not be a "mute witness" to the deterioration in the law and order in the state. He also sought an action taken report from the state government.

This was the second time in a month that the governor made a statement against the TMC government. The governor and the TMC shared a genial relation with it since he assumed office in November last year.

Lashing out at the governor, the TMC in its mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla' accused governors of acting like a cadre of the saffron camp, an oft repeated charge by it.

"Jagdeep Dhankhar had proved that the role of the governor is to pursue the agenda of BJP. The present governor is fast working towards following his footsteps ... The governor is issuing statements against the government just by listening to the one-sided version of BJP. This is where the neutrality of the governor comes under question," the editorial stated.

"We must not forget that governors are just cadres of the BJP," it added.

Bose had said in a statement that he spoke to Pramanik, the union minister of state for home, about the attack that took place in Coochbehar on Saturday.

TMC supporters had allegedly attacked Pramanik's convoy at Dinhata.

Sharpening TMC's attack on the governor, senior TMC MLA Madan Mitra said the party will reciprocate as long as the governor behaves impartially.

"If the governor feels he can pinprick us, we will not sit silently. If he starts behaving like a cadre of the BJP he will receive a befitting reply from us. If he thinks the state government is under surveillance, then he too is under surveillance," Mitra said.

Bose had earned the ire of the Trinamool Congress for his statement earlier this month that there will be zero tolerance policy over corruption and nobody will be allowed to take the law into their hands in the state. The TMC had then said that as long as he maintains courtesy and acts within the rules, the party will reciprocate with courtesy.

If the governor tries to criticise the state government against norms, TMC will not stop to give a befitting reply, it said.

The opposition BJP Monday described TMC's verbal attack on the governor as "crossing the limits" of courtesy and democratic norms.

"As long as he (governor) praised the state government, he was perfect. But as soon as he raised a few questions, the TMC went all out to attack him. The kind of language the TMC leaders are using has crossed all limits of courtesy and democratic norms," BJP leader Rahul Sinha said.

The relationship between the state government and the present Raj Bhawan occupant till a few weeks ago sharply contrasted with what the state saw during Dhankhar's tenure. Bose's cordial relationship with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had even drawn the ire of the state BJP.

Dhankar's acrimonious relationship with the state government had made regular headlines and the TMC repeatedly accused him of acting as an "agent of the BJP". The former alleged that the state government was not functioning as per constitutional norms.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
By Payal Mehta

New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI): The Privilege Committee of the Rajya Sabha has sought a written response from suspended Congress MPs, Rajani Patil and the others who have been named for creating a ruckus in the Upper house of Parliament in the recently concluded first part of the Budget session.

Also Read | Air India Business Class Passenger Complains of Insect Being Served in Flight Meal (Watch Video).

The committee which is chaired by Deputy Rajya Sabha chairman Harivansh has ordered the same in its meeting on Monday.

"It is part of the procedure that those against whom the complaint is filed is given a chance to respond first before any further steps or action," a source told ANI.

Also Read | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni To Visit India in March To Attend Raisina Dialogue.

A week or so ago this matter was referred to the panel by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar.

Continuing the action against unruly MPs in the Rajya Sabha following the suspension of Rajani Patil for the entire Budget Session, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar had given his consent for the privilege committee to examine the conduct of 12 MPs from the opposition.

"Members are informed that the Chairman, Rajya Sabha has referred a question of the alleged breach of privilege arising out of gross disorderly conduct displayed by the Rajya Sabha MPs in violation of rules and etiquette of Rajya Saha by repeatedly entering the well of the Council, shouting slogans and persistently and wilfully obstructing the proceedings of the Council, compelling the Chair to repeatedly adjourn the sittings of the Council, under rule 203 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) to the committee of Privileges for examination, investigation and report," said a Rajya Sabha bulletin.

The names of the Rajya Sabha MPs include those from the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in particular. These 12 MPs are Sanjay Singh, Shaktisinh Gohil, Sushil Kumar Gupta, Sandeep Kumar Pathak, Naranbhai J Rathwa, Syed Nasir Hussain, Kumar Ketkar, Imran Pratapgarhi, L Hanumanthaiah, Phulo Devi Netam, Jebi Mather Hisham and Ranjeet Ranjan.

In addition to this, there has been another privilege notice against AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh for repeatedly submitting a notice for suspension of the Zero Hour in Parliament to discuss the Adani stock issue. In fact, during the first part of the session, the Rajya Sabha chairman had pulled up Sanjay Singh for giving identical notices.

"Members are informed that the Chairman, Rajya Saba has referred a question of an alleged breach of privilege arising out of non-adherence to the directions of the Chair vis-a-vis repeated submission of identical notices under rule 267 by Sanjay Singh, Member, Rajya Sabha, under rule 203 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) to the Committee of Privileges for examination, investigation and report, the Rajya Sabha bulletin further elaborated.

With the opposition parties demanding a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to probe the Adani stock matter, the Upper House of Parliament witnessed a massive ruckus in the recently concluded first half of the session. Ruckus and sloganeering took place in the middle of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech for the Reply to the Motion of Thanks to the President address.

After repeated warnings to the opposition members, the Rajya Sabha chairman had suspended congress MP Rajani Patil for recording mobile videos of the ruckus.

After the recess, the second part of the Budget Session will resume on March 13 and will continue till April 6. (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], February 27 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Monday rejected the petition seeking to postpone NEET PG 2023.

A bench of justices S Ravindra Bhat and Dipankar Datta refused to entertain the petitions seeking postponement of the NEET PG 2023.

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The court was hearing petitions seeking to postpone the NEET-PG 2023, which is scheduled to be held on March 5, 2023.

Various candidates, who have filed a petition seeking postponement of the exam, complained that they are getting less time to prepare for exams as their internships are ongoing.

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Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the NBE, submitted that the dates were announced six months ago.

National Board of Examinations (NBE) told SC that the schedule was notified on the NBEMS website vide notice dated September 16 2022. The Examination is scheduled to be held in 277 cities at 902 test centres across the country.

Centre also told the court that 2,09,029 candidates have applied for the examination. Most of the candidates would have already arranged for their travel to test cities for March 5, 2023. Any postponement at this stage would bring unwanted inconvenience to all such candidates in the form of cancellation of their travel arrangements, the government maintained.

The preparation for the examination is at a very advanced stage, the govt said.

No alternative test date is available soon with the technology partner to conduct NEET-PG 2023 considering that other examinations at these centres are already scheduled. Any change of date at this stage would not allow the availability of similar test cities which candidates for NEET-PG 2023 have already selected, the government submitted. (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, Feb 27 (PTI) It is too early to talk about a possible replacement for Manish Sisodia in the cabinet, Delhi government sources said on Monday, a day after the deputy chief minister was arrested by the CBI in the excise policy scam case.

While there is no doubt that Sisodia will continue to be a minister like his cabinet colleague Satyendar Jain, who is in jail over money laundering charges, his departments will be distributed among others, they said.

Also Read | Air India Business Class Passenger Complains of Insect Being Served in Flight Meal (Watch Video).

There are speculations that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal may take over some of the key portfolios currently held by his deputy.

Sisodia holds 18 of the 33 departments of Delhi governments, including key portfolios such as education, finance and public works department (PWD).

Also Read | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni To Visit India in March To Attend Raisina Dialogue.

His workload increased after Satyendar Jain was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in May last year. Sisodia was handed over Jain's portfolios such as health, industries, power, home, urban development, irrigation and flood control, and water.

The BJP has demanded that Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal should remove Sisodia and Jain from the cabinet.

The Delhi cabinet should be "reshuffled immediately", Leader of Opposition in the Assembly and BJP MLA Ramvir Singh Bidhuri said.

On Monday, the AAP office here was abuzz with speculations about the future though the common refrain was that Sisodia and Jain will remain part of the cabinet.

"A new minister cannot be inducted since Article 239AA of the Constitution of India says that there shall be a Council of Ministers consisting of not more than ten per cent of the total number of members in the Legislative Assembly, with the Chief Minister at the head.... The portfolios will be distributed among the existing ministers with there being a strong possibility that Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot might take over finance," said a source.

Though there has been no decision yet on who will take over Sisodia's portfolios, party sources indicated that Revenue Minister Kailash Gahlot may present the Delhi government budget for the next financial year.

"As there was a possibility that the deputy chief minister may be arrested by the CBI, Gahlot was attending budget-related meetings for the last few days. Gahlot is likely to present the 2023-24 budget. It is scheduled to be presented next month," an AAP functionary earlier told PTI.

Sisodia's arrest might also put the party's national expansion plans in jeopardy, sources said.

However, a senior party leader said, "Now everyone in the country will know who is Delhi's education minister. After today, I don't think anyone will ask who is Manish Sisodia. We have always got the love of people and in the past we have seen that whenever a party leader has been arrested, the party's donations have risen indicating that its growing popularity."

A special CBI court on Monday remanded Sisodia to five-day custody of the central probe agency till March 4.

The CBI on Sunday evening arrested Sisodia in connection with alleged corruption in the formulation and implementation of the now-scrapped liquor policy for 2021-22.

(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], February 27, (ANI): The restrictions on female education are posing a negative impact on the universities in Afghanistan as the enrollment in educational centres declined by 70 per cent, said the union of universities and education centres, TOLOnews reported.

Mohammad Karim Nasiri, the media director of the union, stated that the tally of participants had witnessed a dip of 70 per cent.

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Universities and other educational institutions' owners have expressed fear that they may have to close them if the current state of affairs persists, read a report of TOLOnews.

Shir Ali Zarifi, president of Dawat university said that it had damaged the university's activities because they used to receive income from two sources but now have only one source.

Also Read | Chinese Warplane Intercepts US Navy Plane Over South China Sea.

Mawlawi Mohammad Neda Nadim, Taliban-appointed interim minister for higher education, pledged support for the nation's educational system on Saturday during a religious event.

According to university professors, the country's declining university enrollment is primarily due to poverty and the country's ban on girls attending school past the sixth grade.

Fazal Hadi Wazin, a university instructor, argued that the Islamic Emirate should reopen its female-only universities, abandon its strict regulations, and permit its pupils to pursue higher education.

A university teacher, Sayed Jawad Sijadi said, "The return of students to universities and studies will increase if rules that can be trusted are implemented for the future."

According to data from the organisation, 40 universities will have to close if limits on girls' access to education are not eased.

Notably, Afghan women continue to grapple with education challenges due to Taliban-imposed bans. In reaction to this, a couple of days ago, a group of Afghan women announced the launch of Afghanistan's Women's Revolution in Kabul to fight for fundamental human and women rights in the country, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported.

According to one of the organizers, Donya Safi, the movement aimed to "protect the basic rights of citizens, particularly women, as access to basic rights is a serious requirement for the citizens." We started this campaign to fight the injustice and inequity against women, reported Amu TV, according to Khaama Press. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
MBABANE - Two teenage girls have narrated how they were allegedly sexually and physically abused by a pastor, who happens be their biological father, for years.

It is alleged that the clergyman started sexually abusing the elder daughter from 2018 to 2023. According to a statement the minors recorded with the police, the pastor reportedly abused the younger daughter from 2016 to 2018. The teenagers were aged 12 and 13 when the pastor allegedly started sexually abusing them. One of the teenage girls is said to have approached her mother and told her that she was contemplating committing suicide as she could not handle the sexual and physical abuse allegedly by her father, who doubles as a pastor. In the statement, one of the teenage girls detailed how the accused would invite her into his bedroom every morning where he would allegedly hug, kiss and touch her indecently, before proceedings to sexually violate her. The accused, according to the minors, described the mandatory morning visits by the complainants into his bedroom as morning greet. According to one of the minors, he would tell them that he was confirming their virginity.

The complainants are said to have also disclosed that after allegedly raping each of them, the accused would tell them that he loved them and he did not want boys to play with them. The minors related that the accused (pastor) would allegedly order them to undress, kiss them and proceed to sexually abuse them. As per the statements of the minors, the accused took away their virginity in the process as they stated that they were not sexually active before he allegedly started to sexually abuse them. In their statements, the minors further relayed that after sexually abusing them, the accused would assault them with a plastic pipe. The abuse survivors were staying with the accused, siblings and their stepmother.

The pastor is facing three counts under the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence (SODV) Act, which include among others, sexually violating the minors and physically abusing them. He has since moved a bail application at the High Court, which is, however, being met with resistance from the police and the Crown. In her answering papers, the investigator of the case, Constable Dumsile Msibi, contended that it would not be in the interest of justice to release the accused on bail. I humbly state that in summary the accuseds request for bail is vigorously opposed since he is a flight risk and there is a likelihood that he may attempt to interfere, influence or intimidate the witnesses of the Crown, she argued.

She informed the court that the accused was a Zion pastor of a church in the Hhohho Region. The investigator submitted that on February 2, 2023, two women came to the police station together with two minors. She said the two women related that they were girlfriends of the accused, who was also the father of their children. Msibi alleged that the women informed her that they wanted advice concerning removing the children from the accused to a place of safety. One of the women mentioned that her daughter called and informed her that she was considering committing suicide as she cannot handle the physical and sexual abuse. The minors also disclosed that the accused would sometime order them to strip naked and then assault them, averred the investigator.

Msibi told the court that after interviewing and recording statements from the two women, they then referred them to the Social Welfare Department, which decided to remove the children from the pastors home, to live with their respective mothers. The accused sent two of his sisters to report and open a missing person file on February 3, 2023. I told them that the children were safe with their mothers, they should not worry, said Msibi. She told the court that on the same day, the accused pastor decided to come to the police station to enquire about the location of his children as he wanted them back. The investigator said the visit by the man of the cloth was coincidental as they were preparing to go and arrest him.

I then took the initiative to introduce myself to him, cautioned him in terms of the judges rules and informed him that I was arresting him for a crime of rape, as well as physically abuse against his children. He said something and I then arrested and charged him for violation of the Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Act of 2018, narrated the investigator. She brought it to the attention of the court that the accused was facing two counts of rape and two of allegedly physically abusing his two daughters. Msibi highlighted to the court that the rape charges were aggravated by the fact that the accused was their biological father and that he did not use any protection when sexually violating the minors.

Msibi further informed the court that in all the counts faced by the accused, there was enough evidence that he committed same and witnesses had already recorded statements with the police and were ready to testify. The bail application is still pending in court.




Washington, Feb 27 (PTI) Indian-American woman research scientist, Darshana Patel, has announced her bid to run for the California State Assembly District 76 in 2024.

Patel, 48, is seeking the North County seat that will be vacated after 2024 by Brian Maienschein, who is termed out.

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"As the daughter of immigrants who struggled to realise the American Dream, I know the challenges that families can face during hard times," Patel, a community leader and a Democrat, was quoted as saying by the Times of San Diego.

"I am running for State Assembly because I want to make sure that every person has the opportunity to succeed and thrive, and because I can use my experience as a scientist, elected school board member, and civic leader to make a difference in their lives," Patel, who moved to California when she was a teen, added.

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Patel was elected to the Poway Unified board when the district was struggling because of financial mismanagement and criminal embezzlement and helped to restore fiscal responsibility. She was reelected in 2020.

In addition to her work on the school board, Patel serves on the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs and as president of the San Diego County School Boards Association.

She has previously held executive positions on the Rancho Penasquitos Planning Board, Rancho Penasquitos Town Council, Park Village Elementary School PTA and Education Foundation Board.

Patel, her husband, and their three daughters live in San Diego.

She has done a BA in Biochemistry at Occidental College and a PhD in Biophysics from the University of California, Irvine. PTI

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New York [US], February 27 (ANI): Over five dozen protesters gathered outside a building housing a Chinese 'police station' accused of spying on dissidents in the Chinese community in New York, The New York Post reported.

On Saturday, the protesters gathered outside 107 East Broadway where the ChangLe Association Inc, a non-profit which operates a "service station" above the noodle shop.

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One of the protesters, Toni Cai said, "It's a very serious problem in the Chinese community," adding that CCP has coerced people from China severely and has a large influence on them in the state, through American and Asian-American politicians.

Dozens of demonstrators protested outside a Chinatown building housing a foreign police station accused of harassing and spying on Chinese nationals in the city, reported The New York Post.

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Cai is a pro-democracy activist imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party twice in China for promoting free speech. He immigrated to the US in 2000, he told The Post.

"I am very worried, but I want to support the community leaders who are honest and openly against what the CCP is doing," he added.

Meanwhile, Jing Zhang, founder and executive director of Women's Rights in China, echoed the thought as she joined the protesters outside the Lower Manhattan building. "People need to support each other," she said "We all came here to be free."

Earlier, FBI counterintelligence raided this office building in New York. According to The New York Post, the Chinese police station is run with the help of a US charity that is on an IRS blacklist.

In May, the IRS yanked the group's tax-exempt status for its failure to submit tax filings for three straight years, according to public records, according to The New York Post.

The non-profit, which was incorporated in New York in 2013 and listed its charitable mission as a "social gathering place for Fujianese people," paid USD 1.3 million three years later for the suite of offices that houses the Fuzhou Police Overseas Chinese Affairs bureau, filings show.

The stations also participate in "intimidation, harassment, detention or imprisonment" to spy on dissenters and return migrants to China, according to the report.

"We Chinese are very angry at the local government for their appeasement policy," said Quiam Jiu, who was at the protest with his daughter, Zhao Yue Auiam. "They let the CCP repress freedom and human rights activities. We want local government to have a high-pressure policy on CCP agents."

"CCP agents are everywhere," said Ziyun Huang, who was also at the Saturday protest.

Last year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams was a guest of honour at a gala dinner sponsored by the charity that operates the Chinatown police station, The Post revealed.

"CCP agents are everywhere," said Ziyun Huang, who was also at the Saturday protest. "When all the human rights groups have protests and demonstrations, the CCP will come and harass people.

"The CCP affects the average Chinese American tremendously," Huang continued. "The party is always in the back of their mind. Everything they do is psychological. CCP to the Chinese is like the weather -- they are always in the background," he 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)
London, Feb 27 (PTI) Some of the top UK fashion and beauty brands have embarked on a first-of-its-kind trade mission to India to capitalise on rapidly growing demand for such high-end products in the country against the backdrop of the bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations, the UK government said on Monday.

UK Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch said she is "eager" to make it easier for such companies to do business with India as her department threw its weight behind the British delegation to India Fashion Forum 2023 in Bengaluru.

Also Read | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni To Visit India in March To Attend Raisina Dialogue.

Made up of the likes of cosmetics retailer Lush and luxury knitwear brand John Smedley, the UK mission has been organised by the Department for Business and Trade  newly created as a merged trade and business ministry by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

India's growing economy and middle class represent an enormous opportunity for enterprising UK companies looking for new markets, said UK Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch.

Also Read | Minimum Marriage Age Rises to 18 in England and Wales To Crack Down on Forced Marriage.

Removing barriers to business and boosting exports are two of my top trade priorities and I'm eager to make it easier and faster to do business with India through the free trade deal we're currently negotiating, she said.

According to the UK government, negotiations continue on a forward-facing trade deal with India, even as the countries already enjoy a trade relationship worth GBP 34 billion as estimated up to the year ending September 2022.

The [FTA] deal, expected to boost the UK economy by billions over the longer term, is part of the UK's strategy to forge stronger partnerships with fast-growing economies in the Indo-Pacific. The UK wants an agreement that slashes barriers to doing business and trading with India's GBP 2 trillion economy and market of 1.4 billion consumers, including cutting tariffs on exports for British businesses such as Lush and John Smedley, said the Department for Business and Trade.

According to the definitive luxury-lifestyle publication Robb Report' in 2021, the Indian luxury goods market was valued at over USD 5 billion and is expected to grow by another 10 per cent over the next five years.

Lush is very happy to take part in this trade mission and we're confident that in India, with its deep roots in natural cosmetics, we can find a partner that lives our ethics, said Anita Baker of Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics.

India has the opportunity to be a very sizable market and we aim to give our Indian shoppers the amazing customer experience they expect from visiting our shops around the world, she said.

The British government analysis adds that India is set to become the third-largest economy by 2050, by which time it will have a middle class of 250 million consumers.

As India is one of the fastest growing luxury markets in the world, we are very excited to be attending the Fashion Forum as part of the trade mission, said Bill Leach, Global Sales Director, John Smedley Ltd.

It is hoped that the UK-India Free Trade Agreement that is currently being negotiated comes to fruition in the coming months so that a growing number of discerning luxury consumers in India will enjoy greater access to the World's Finest Knitwear, he said.

During the India Fashion Forum in Bengaluru, the British brands are keen to showcase their expertise in luxury, heritage and innovation to potential buyers and distributors in the Indian market.

Other companies participating in the first-of-its-kind delegation include fashion brands like Wormser, Organic Apoteke, Lilly and Sid, Legology, Benny Hancock, VENIA Cosmetic Ltd, Jennifer Young Ltd and ByErim Ltd.

According to the official UK government data, India accounts for 1.7 per cent of total UK exports and was the 12th largest UK export market in the four quarters to the end of the third quarter of 2022.

It is hoped an India-UK FTA, set for an eighth round of negotiations in New Delhi next month, could significantly enhance that figure.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Tel Aviv [Israel], February 27 (ANI): Scores of Israeli settlers went on a violent rampage in the northern West Bank late Sunday, setting dozens of cars and homes on fire after two settlers were killed by a Palestinian gunman, reported The New York Times (NYT).

The two brothers were killed near Har Bracha, a West Bank settlement about one mile south of Nablus, where nearly a dozen Palestinians were killed in an Israeli military raid earlier this week.

Also Read | COVID-19 Pandemic A Result of Lab Leak in China, Says US Energy Department.

The incident took place when Israeli, Palestinian and other Arab officials were participating in a summit in Jordan, along with senior US representatives, to discuss ways to de-escalate rising tensions.

Jewish settlers went on a rampage in the area to avenge the killings, stoning and burning dozens of Palestinian homes, stores and cars, reported NYT.

Also Read | Tibet Has Lowest Literacy Among All Provinces in China: Delhi Think Tank.

Palestinian officials said one man was killed and four others were wounded.

Dozens of Israelis arrived in Huwara to riot on Sunday evening. Mosques in Huwara published messages calling on Palestinians to confront settlers in the area, reported The Jerusalem Post.

Palestinians in the town burned tires in the streets of the town after the settlers entered the area. Footage from the town showed large fires that broke out amid the clashes.

Additionally, amid the violence, Palestinians torched Joseph's Tomb in Nablus, according to Palestinian reports.

Hours after the violent riots began, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the rioters not to "take the law into their own hands," reported The Jerusalem Post.

"I remind you that in the last few weeks (the security forces) have eliminated dozens of terrorists and prevented dozens of terrorist attacks," said Netanyahu. "Let the IDF complete the pursuit, don't take the law into your hands - and together we will defeat terrorism."

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also called on Israelis not to take the law into their own hands, stressing that the riots endangered Israeli citizens and harmed the operations of security forces who were hunting for the terrorist who carried out the attack.

President Isaac Herzog also condemned the violence, calling on Israelis to allow security forces to continue their operations to catch the terrorist and restore order immediately. (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, February 27: Air India chief Campbell Wilson on Monday said the full-service carrier post the merger of Vistara will be known as Air India, which is much more recognised outside the country as the group works on becoming a significant international aviation player.

While the resultant full-service carrier will be known as Air India, Wilson emphasised that efforts will be made to retain some of the "Vistara heritage in that new manifestation". Tata Group To Merge Vistara With Air India; Singapore Airlines To Hold 25.1% Stake in Merged Entity.

Since taking over the loss-making Air India in January last year, Tata Group has been working on transforming the airline group and has announced that Vistara will be merged with itself, while AIX Connect, earlier known as AirAsia India, is getting integrated with Air India Express. Campbell Wilson Appointed as CEO and Managing Director of Air India.

"The intention is to have one full-service airline and one low-cost airline in the group. The full-service airline will be an amalgam of Air India and Vistara," Wilson said.

During a virtual media interaction, the CEO and MD of Air India also said there is a desire to carry forward the heritage of both Air India and Vistara, and work is going through on the form.

"Vistara has a very strong recognition in the Indian market but if you look outside the Indian market, clearly Air India is much more recognised and has a 90-year history... the future full-service carrier will be called Air India but we would like to retain and celebrate some of the Vistara heritage in that new manifestation," Wilson said.

Regarding the merger of Vistara with Air India, Wilson on Monday said it is in the process of seeking clearance from the Competition Commission of India (CCI).

"We are also working together with some external parties on the opportunities in an integrated business, the things that we need to focus on in the process of integration...," he added.

On November 29 last year, Tata Group announced the merger of Vistara with Air India under a deal wherein Singapore Airlines will also acquire a 25.1 per cent stake in Air India.

The deal, which will make Air India the country's largest international carrier and second-largest domestic carrier, is expected to be completed by March 2024, subject to regulatory approvals. Currently, Tata group owns a 51 per cent stake in Vistara and the rest is with Singapore Airlines.

To another question, the Air India chief said that the Maharaja brand is something that it would like to retain. "... (Maharaja is) something that we want to be part of the future of Air India... It is very well loved... It will be part of our future".

"We see Air India has enormous potential and we see Air India being able to provide huge opportunities for professionals to realise their ambitions," he said.
Bengaluru, February 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Shivamogga airport in poll-bound Karnataka on Monday. He will also hold a 10 kilometre road show in Belagavi city. All eyes in Karnataka are on the Shivamogga event, as former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa hails from the district and he had announced retirement from electoral politics last week.

Yediyurappa is looking forward to allotment of tickets to his son B.Y. Vijayendra from Shikaripura constituency, which he represented throughout his career. PM Modi had appreciated Yediyurappa's farewell speech and stated that it inspired him as well. Yediyurappa had also announced that the Lingayat community should not have hard feelings about his retirement and continue to support the BJP.

He is likely to give a message in terms of Yediyurappa's concerns on accommodating his son Vijayendra in the party. The Prime Minister, who is expected to arrive in Shivamogga at 11.35 a.m, is scheduled to address a public rally after inaugurating the airport. Seating arrangements for 1 lakh people have been made.

People are being roped in from Chikkamagaluru, Davanagere, Chitradurga districts in more than 1,500 buses. Shivamogga airport has the second longest runway in the state.

PM Modi will arrive in Belagavi by 2 p.m. and launch a 10.7 kilometer roadshow from Rani Chennamma circle. Leaders of various communities are allowed to welcome him on the way. Shivamogga Airport to Boost Business, Says PM Narendra Modi Ahead of Its Inauguration.

Arrangements have been made to shower flower petals on him at Dharmaveer Sambhaji circle, Ashoka circle, Tilak circle. More than 4,500 police personnel have been deputed to ensure security. He will lay the foundation stone, inaugurate and dedicate various projects worth Rs 2,250 crore.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 27, 2023 09:50 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Kolkata, February 27: The voting for the Nagaland and Meghalaya assembly elections 2023 is being held today, February 27. Earlier polls were also held in Tripura on February 16. After the polling ends today, the assembly elections 2023 will conclude and all eyes will be on the north east assembly election results to be declared on March 2. However, people are also eagerly waiting for the exit poll results and predictions, which will be out on the evening of February 27.

Several media organisations along with agencies will broadcast exit poll results today for Assembly Elections 2023 in the states of Tripura, Meghalaya and Nagaland. It is important to note that exit poll results will only be published after voting ends. Here we take a look at when and where to watch exit poll results. Nagaland Assembly Elections 2023: CM Neiphiu Rio Casts His Vote in Kohima Distirct (See Pics).

Exit Poll Results 2023: Date and Time

Exit polls will only be released today, February 27 after 7 pm after the voting ends in Meghalaya and Nagaland. This is in accordance to the directives by the Election Commission of India. Meghalaya Assembly Elections 2023: First Five Early Voters Receive Mementos to Encourage Early Voting.

Exit Poll Results 2023: When and Where to Watch

Several television media organisations will broadcast the exit polls after the conclusion of polls. India Today-AxisMyIndia, News24-Todays Chanakya and ABP C-Voter are some of the prominent organisations which are expected to broadcast the exit polls today evening. You can also tune in to Latestly to track the live updates with us.

Furthermore, the live streaming of Tripura, Nagaland, and Meghalaya Assembly Election Exit Poll Results 2023 will be available for viewers on other news channels, including on YouTube and other social media platforms.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 27, 2023 02:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
To ensure a free, fair and incident-free election, the Union Home Ministry, at the request of the state government, has provided 305 companies of Central Armed Police Force, while the state security forces have also been deployed across the mountainous state. In all, 12 political parties comprising national and state parties are in the fray.
Marathi Bhasha Din 2023 or Marathi Language Day is being observed today (February 27) to celebrate the Marathi language. Marathi speaking people would love to send Marathi Bhasha Din 2023 messages and greetings to express their respect towards Marathi Language Day. Some put "Happy Marathi Language Day" images and HD wallpapers on their WhatsApp status. If you are looking for Marathi Bhasha Din 2023 wishes, greetings, messages, images, HD wallpapers and WhatsApp status, here are some ready for you. National Science Day 2023: 7 Interesting Facts About Indian Physicist CV Raman, The Man Behind Raman Effect.

Marathi Bhasha Din 2023: Wishes, Greetings, Messages

Marathi Bhasha Din (Photo Credits: File Image)

Marathi Bhasha Din (Photo Credits: File Image)

Happy Marathi Language Day 2023: Images and HD Wallpapers

Marathi Bhasha Din (Photo Credits: File Image)

Marathi Bhasha Din (Photo Credits: File Image)

Marathi Bhasha Din 2023: WhatsApp Status

Marathi Bhasha Din (Photo Credits: File Image)

(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.)
 Air raid alert goes off in many Ukrainian regions.



Kyiv Oblast Military Administration confirmed that air defense is at work in the region.



Chernihiv Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Chaus said that air defense is shooting down Iranian-made Shahed drones in Chernihiv Oblast. The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) February 26, 2023

(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.)
MANZINI  The Manzini Police Station Commander, Dumisani Dube, was found dead with a gunshot wound in his head yesterday morning, in a suspected suicide.

The station commander, who was referred to by many police officers as a down to earth person and a problem solver, was reportedly found kneeling beside a coffee table in his house at Coates Valley. Impeccable sources claimed that the senior police officer had walked into the Manzini Police Station on Saturday afternoon and gave an instruction that certain officers should prepare for him his Monday lecture. The sources claimed that after instructing the officers, he left the police station and went to his residential place. They claimed that he had indicated that he would return to the police station when leaving, such that the officers had tried to contact him through his mobile phone several times.

Unanswered

It was reported that the mobile phone rang unanswered. The means to get Dube were said to have continued yesterday morning and still his mobile phones rang unanswered. This was said to have resulted in some officers driving to his compound to deliver the occurrence report. However, it was gathered that when they arrived at his compound and knocked on the door, there was no response. The sources said there were suspicions that he had travelled using one of his vehicles as only one was found within the compound. They said the officers dialed Dubes phone and they heard it ringing unanswered, which prompted them to peep through the window. The sources claimed that when they peeped through the window, they saw Dubes body kneeling besides the coffee table.

They claimed that on the coffee table was an opened Bible, his house keys and mobile phones, while on the floor laid his service pistol. Thereon, the sources said the officers reported what they had seen and were further advised to get a close relative of the deceased to open the house. It was said the station commander resided with one of his children at Coates Valley. Some police officers said there were suspicions that the senior police officer might have committed suicide. However, they wondered what could have prompted him to engage in such as he had stood strong at the height of killings targeting police officers, as most who were killed were under his supervision.

Other officers had suspicions that his demise was not suicide; however, they were baffled on how the killer could have gained entry into the house and locked while leaving its keys inside. Meanwhile, Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed that a police officer was found dead in his house. She said they were still investigating the circumstances leading to his demise and could not delve much into the incident.

On the other hand, the family of the late senior police officer said they were informed about his death yesterday morning. According to the relatives who were found at Dubes homestead, which is situated at Mpolonjeni in Mbabane, the news of his death was conveyed by a team of high ranking police officers, who came to the homestead at around 8am yesterday. According to one of the relatives identified as Make Dlamini, the high ranking law enforcers who arrived at the homestead said they were sent by the national commissioner of police. She said the senior police officers then informed them about Dubes death, how his body was found. According to Make Dlamini, the police officers told them that at the moment they could not say more as they were currently investigating circumstances leading to his death.

Investigations

For now as a family, there is nothing much save to say that we are still waiting for the conclusion of police investigations. As family, we are still shocked, said Make Dlamini, who was interviewed in the presence of the other family members who concurred with her. One of the relatives, who was said to be the deceaseds sister, failed to control her emotions immediately she entered the gate leading to the homestead as she wept uncontrollably. The sister, Ntombi Dube, had to be soothed by other family members who were also in a sombre mood. Some members of the community said they were also shocked about the passing of Dube, whom they described as someone who was down to earth and God fearing.

It is unbelievable, Dube was a people person and was willing to assist whenever he can, said one of the residents. Some of the residents alleged that they last saw Dube in town a few weeks ago and he was in a jolly mood as usual.
In what many say is a rare occurrence nowadays, Democrats and Republicans are working together to kick off a renewed push for paid family and medical leave.

According to CNN, the Family and Medical Leave Act, which guaranteed workers the right to unpaid, job-protected time off, became law 30 years ago.

However, the U.S. is one of only seven countries without some form of universal paid family and medical leave, and a bipartisan congressional duo wants to change that.

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden called for expanded federal medical leave and paid benefits for workers.

Republican Rep. Stephanie Bice of Oklahoma and Democratic Rep. Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania are the ones leading the charge. Both have pointed out that it has been embarrassing for the U.S. as it remains one of the few remaining countries that do not have this kind of program.

The two congresswomen have officially launched their House Bipartisan Paid Family Leave Working Group. It is composed of six House representatives, with three Republicans and three Democrats.

The Democrats include Colin Allred of Texas and Haley Stevens of Michigan, while the Republicans include Julia Letlow of Louisiana and Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Iowa. Bice noted that such a partnership is not that uncommon across the aisle.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that only one in four workers had access to paid family leave in 2022, with the bureau finding that families in the lowest 25% of wage earners had even less access and only 13% of these low-income workers were eligible for paid family leave last year.

READ NEXT: Joe Biden and Lula Meet for the First Time as Presidents

Bipartisan Support for Paid Family Leave and Paid Medical Leave Also Gains Traction for Federal Workers

Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii and Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz of Virginia are leading the charge for 12 weeks of paid family leave for all federal workers, including U.S. Postal Service employees.

According to the Government Executive, the two Democrats are joined by Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, making this agenda bipartisan.

The bill guarantees up to 12 weeks every year of paid leave for a personal illness, to care for an ailing family member, or in connection with a family member going on or returning from active duty.

Joe Biden Called for Universal Paid Family and Medical Leave

President Joe Biden has been one of the biggest supporters of universal paid family and medical leave.

In a February 2 press conference on the 30th anniversary of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), the president made his feelings felt as he signed a memorandum for the need to have a national program of paid family and medical leave for employees.

According to SHRM, Biden stated: "Workers must have access to paid leave when they face a medical or caregiving need that affects their ability to work."

The president also lamented how the U.S. remains one of the few countries in the world still without universal family and medical leave.

READ MORE: Venezuelan Migrant Numbers at U.S.-Mexico Border Drop by 90%

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Paid Family Leave: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver (HBO) - From LastWeekTonight
Tens of thousands have gathered in Mexico City's massive central plaza to demonstrate against Mexico electoral reform proposed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Sunday, which the demonstrators fear will undermine democracy and lead the country back to its past.

It is estimated that 100,000 people can fit inside the plaza, but many protestors took to the streets outside the center during the demonstrations.

Protesters chanted, "Don't touch my vote!" and wore mostly white and pink, the official colors of the National Electoral Institute.

The marchers had a slightly more affluent appearance than those at the typical demonstration, comparable to a similar but somewhat larger march on November 13, AP reports.

The Mexico electoral reform was approved by the legislature last week.

It would reduce pay for election workers, resources for state and municipal election authorities, and education and certification opportunities for poll workers.

Furthermore, they would soften penalties for candidates who misstate campaign funds.

The president of Mexico claims that those who criticize the reforms are elitist and that the institute wastes too much money. Still, he maintains that the reforms pose no danger to democracy. He believes the money would be better used to help the needy.

Veterinarian and protester Enrique Bastien, 64, argued that Lopez Obrador, with his reforms, "wants to return to the past" when the government controlled the elections.

READ NEXT: Mexico: 140 Missing After Violent Arrest of El Chapo's Son

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Says INE Is Too Expensive and Biased

The leftist Lopez Obrador claims the INE is too expensive and biased in favor of his rivals. However, he claims he was twice denied the presidency before romping to a resounding success in the 2018 election.

The president portrayed the protests on Sunday as a partisan effort by the opposition to undermine his administration, according to Reuters.

The INE claims that the president's reforms make it more difficult to have free and open elections because they violate the constitution, limit the electoral body's independence, and eliminate thousands of jobs devoted to protecting the electoral process.

Polls show that Lopez Obrador is still liked by 60% or more of the people. He has also weakened other independent bodies that check his power, saying they cost too much money and are against his political project.

The proposed changes to INE will save $150 million annually, he said.

The National Renewal Movement (MORENA), led by the president and quickly becoming the country's most powerful political organization, is widely seen as a frontrunner for the 2024 election.

People were sick of the president acting like a "dictator," according to Antonio Mondragon, a retired dentist who voted for Lopez Obrador in 2018. Mondragon was at the Mexico City demonstration.

"We need to get back to being a democracy," said the 83-year-old Mondragon, "because the man is going mad."

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Signs Mexico Electoral Reform Amid Criticism

The Mexican elections commissioner called President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's move to cut election spending to attack democracy.

Even though he expects legal challenges, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador signed the Mexico electoral reform.

The president claims that the group wastes resources and that the money could be better used to assist the poor.

Many people have strong feelings about the changes; some have even threatened legal action or organized protests elsewhere.

For his part, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has begun accusing them of being racists and aristocrats who support corruption.

"The march is to defend their privileges; they are protesting because they don't want to help the poor," Lopez Obrador said last week.

READ MORE: Florida Shooting Survivor Speaks Out

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Thousands in Mexico protest electoral overhaul - From Reuters
Deposed Peruvian President Pedro Castillo is now seeking exile in Mexico after being removed from office last year. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador claims that he is "illegally ousted," and this did not make the current government of Peru happy.

These comments from AMLO resulted in Peru withdrawing their diplomats from the country indefinitely, with Peruvian President Dina Boluarte denouncing the Mexican president and saying that his comments were "unacceptable" and that Mexico was interfering in the internal affairs of the country.

President Boluarte, who was previously the vice president serving under Castillo, stated that AMLO's remarks had seriously affected the relationship between the two Latin American countries as she accused Lopez Obrador of supporting Castillo's attempted coup, according to the BBC.

"Mr. Lopez has decided to seriously affect the bicentennial relations of mutual respect, friendship, co-operation, and desire for integration that have historically united Peru and Mexico," the Peruvian president stated as she announced the recall of her country's ambassador to Mexico.

The diplomatic rift began when Peru expelled the Mexican ambassador to the country last December. This came after Mexico granted political asylum to Castillo's wife and two sons, according to Al Jazeera News. The former Peruvian first lady is also caught up in various corruption investigations.

Mexico to Maintain its Diplomats in Peru Despite Peruvian Pullout

Despite Boluarte announcing the withdrawal of the Peruvian Ambassador to Mexico, Manuel Gerardo Talavera, the Mexican foreign ministry announced that the North American country will be maintaining its diplomatic and consular representation in Peru.

The Mexican Foreign Ministry also stated that it would keep communication channels open. However, it also announced that Peru's decision to withdraw its ambassador to Mexico was regrettable.

READ NEXT: Peru Expels Mexican Ambassador

The removal of Castillo from office sparked outrage from various other Latin American countries, including Bolivia, Argentina, and Colombia. Along with Mexico, they have also urged Peru to reinstate him.

Castillo was removed from office after repeated tries by congress to have him impeached. While in the process of impeaching him, Castillo announced that he dissolved congress, with congress announcing he has been deposed. Castillo soon gave himself up, and his family fled to Mexico.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador Vows to Keep Supporting Pedro Castillo

Despite angering the current Peruvian government, AMLO is standing by Pedro Castillo. During a news conference on Friday, the Mexican president stated that his country will keep supporting former President Pedro Castillo. Lopez Obrador stated that Castillo was democratically elected and illegally ousted by a deeply unpopular Congress and government.

According to Al Jazeera News, he also hit at the violent crackdowns by government forces on protestors, saying that the government rules with bayonets and repression, with force."

AMLO claimed that there was injustice in Castillo's ouster and that Peruvian conservatives violated the constitution.

Currently, Pedro Castillo is under pre-trial detention after his attempted dissolution of congress by decree to avoid impeachment.

His arrest also sparked demonstrations that resulted in violent reprisals from government forces, according to Reuters. These government actions have been widely criticized by human rights groups like Amnesty International.

READ MORE: Pedro Castillo Ousted as Peru President

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: As deadly protests continue, Peru's government faces crisis - Al Jazeera English
Texas and Michigan officials reported that they were not informed that the toxic waste in the soil and water from the Ohio train derailment was taken to their areas.

Some officials claimed that they did not get any notice after toxic waste in water and soil from the site of the Ohio train derailment was delivered to hazardous waste companies in the two aforementioned states, according to Fox News.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency told the media outlet that Norfolk Southern was responsible for the disposal of waste.

The EPA added that the company supplied Ohio EPA with its list of selected and utilized disposal utilities on February 23.

EPA then instructed Norfolk Southern to immediately pause the toxic waste shipments, adding that all waste disposal plans should undergo EPA review and approval moving forward.

The spokesperson said that since then, the toxic waste shipments have been postponed.

READ NEXT: Joe Biden Says 'No' Plan to Visit Ohio Train Derailment Site Even After Donald Trump's Tour

Texas and Michigan Receiving Ohio Train Derailment Toxic Waste

Harris County's chief executive said that around two million gallons of firefighting water from the train derailment site were expected to be disposed of in the county.

The official said that about half a million gallons were already there, as reported by CNN.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine's spokesperson told CNN that the governor was not briefed regarding where in the country the toxic waste shipments would be sent.

The spokesperson, Daniel Tierney, added that it was typical as the train company is responsible for the transport of material, and the EPA is responsible for the regulation of the transport.

Michigan Rep. Debbie Dingell said in a statement that she was not told that contaminated soil was taken to the U.S. Ecology Wayne Disposal in Belleville, Michigan.

Dingell said that they were not given heads-up on the decision and the action.

Some of the wastewater was also delivered to Texas Molecular, which injects hazardous waste into the ground for disposal, as cited by Associated Press News.

The company was reported to have experience in handling this type of waste disposal.

Ohio Train Derailment

U.S. President Joe Biden has earlier ordered federal agencies to go door-to-door in East Palestine, Ohio to check on families affected by the Ohio train derailment incident.

The president added that there were no immediate plans for him to visit the site. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump visited the site and delivered a speech to East Palestine residents.

Al Jazeera reported that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Environment Protection Agency, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency visited homes starting on Saturday, as directed by the president.

Workers of the involved agencies will be asking residents how they are doing, what the residents would need, and connecting them with appropriate resources from the government.

Officials noted that the immediate goal was to visit at least 400 homes.

Meanwhile, the Republican-led House of Representatives launched a probe into the derailment incident, which occurred on February 3.

The GOP also blamed Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg for his response to the incident.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Visits Ohio Town After Train Derailment, Says Officials 'Indifferent'

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Ohio toxic train derailment: How long could impacts last? - from ABC News


A Texas man was arrested after he was caught impersonating a police officer, even using fake emergency lights.

He was arrested after a concerned citizen called 911 and reported a suspicious blue pickup truck trying to pull him over with emergency lights, according to Fox News.

The Texas man was identified as 42-year-old Luciano Amador Velazquez. Deputies from Parker Country Sheriff's Office responded to the concerned citizen's report and found that the man was from Weatherford, which was around 50 miles west of Dallas.

The Texas man told authorities from Parker County Sheriff's Office that he used the blue and red emergency lights mounted on his dashboard to "make people drive better."

The Parker County Sheriff's Office said the victim reported that Velazquez was flashing emergency lights inside the truck.

Velazquez was also reported to have attempted to cut the other driver off the roadway and block the vehicle from leaving the area.

READ NEXT: California Woman Dismembered, Killed by 'Snapchat' Guy Who Googled 'How to Be a Serial Killer'

Texas Man Impersonating as Police Officer

Velasquez was charged with the felony of impersonation of a public servant.

Parker County Sheriff Russ Authier said they received the report at around 9 p.m. with a suspicious blue Dodge pickup with emergency lights on the truck's dashboard, as reported by NBC News.

The victim told police that Velazquez was following him closely.

Authier noted that the victim did the right thing by immediately reporting the incident to law enforcement.

Velazquez is currently held in the Parker County Jail for the charges against him.

It was not immediately clear if the Texas man impersonating a police officer had obtained an attorney for his case.

He is also being held on a $15,000 bond, according to jail documents.

Dallas police reported an increase in people impersonating officers, referring to three incidents that occurred from January 14 to February 3.

Impersonating Police Officers Case

In Florida, a Naples resident was the victim of a phone call scheme prompting her to reveal personal information.

Naples Police Department noted that the man reported receiving a call from someone claiming to be the Naples Chief of Police.

The impersonating police chief claimed that he was contacting the resident due to a purchase he had made for an illegal drug.

The suspect went on to say that he was working with the federal government, adding that he would send police officers to his home and arrest him on a warrant if he refused to comply.

The resident was then asked to make a statement confirming his willingness to continue the investigation after the caller read the resident's credit card number.

The police department found that the resident was also asked to include his Social Security number in the statement he made.

The man ended the call and dialed the Naples Police Department.

A person convicted of impersonating a police officer could spend two years in jail while facing a penalty as high as $2,000, as cited by Bail Bonds Raleigh.

READ MORE: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Ignores U.S. Pres. Joe Biden's Request for National Guard Troops at State of the Union

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Dallas reaches highest murder rate it has seen despite police efforts - from CBS Texas


Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations in 13 countries, announced today (February 27) that it has acquired full ownership of the iconic The Westin Paris  Vendome after acquiring Henderson Parks stake in the property.

The hotel, with its ultra-prime location, is one of the most sought-after real estate assets in Paris, France. Henderson Park and Dubai Holding had acquired The Westin Paris  Vendome in a joint venture back in 2018.

The Westin Paris  Vendome is an iconic property that was built in 1878 and is situated in a unique location in the heart of the busiest luxury district in Paris.

Overlooking the Jardin des Tuileries, the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower  and a few steps away from Place Vendome, Place de la Concorde, Avenue des Champs Elysees and Le Louvre Museum  the historic setting of the property offers visitors an unparalleled entry to the City of Lights.

The property occupies an area of over 32,000 square metres and houses more than 400 rooms and suites. The Westin Paris - Vendome will continue to operate in partnership with the Marriott International group, under The Westin brand and with the support of Sophos Hotel.

Dubai Holding will soon begin to consider future plans for the property after the Paris Olympics in 2024, said a company spokesman.

"The acquisition of this prime asset further strengthens Dubai Holdings extensive portfolio of world-class assets in key gateway locations," he noted.

In addition, it supports the groups long-term strategy of global expansion that is focused on boosting its presence in strategic destinations across the world, including North America, the Middle East, Europe and Asia, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Laois councillors have questioned whether The Cube office is still actually going to be a low carbon business centre of excellence, after the first tenant was revealed to be a large job recruitment agency.

FRS Recruitment is first to move into the glass fronted office, bought by Laois County Council, leasing one of the three floors.

The Cube will officially open in March after a 1.62m taxpayer investment to refurbish and buy the vacant unfinished office on Tower Hill in Portlaoise.

Cllr Willie Aird is not happy that they were not informed of updates, blaming the lack of board meetings by the company, which includes the council Cathaoirleach as a board member.

On the make-up of The Cube. I always understood when we gave the green light that it would be run in the same fashion as we own the building. I asked for an update and the chair said she didnt know, he said.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Thomasina Connell denied that she had said she did not know, also confirming however that no board meetings took place in the past six months.

Cllr Aird is not happy at the lack of communication on The Cube, run by an associated company of Laois County Council.

I had insisted that the Cathaoirleach be on that board to be able to liaise back to us.

I see that FRS has a floor taken. I didnt understand that was the make-up. I understood it was to deal with climate action. To me it is working out completely differently. The right person was the Cathaoirleach to go to all the meetings, Cllr Aird said.

Cllr Aisling Moran agreed.

The Cube got 2million to be a low carbon building. Even though now it is not a low carbon building. Whats going on? Is it a low carbon building? she asked.

The Director of Services Gerry Murphy gave a reason for having only two board meetings in 2022.

The building was being refurbished. In 2023 there will be four meetings, each quarter, he said.

He also defended the buildings use for low carbon businesses.

It is important that the DAC has at least one anchor tenant. There will be three staff members employed by Laois County Council working under the Just Transition Programme on the ground floor, as well as energy awareness council staff. Community advice will be given on energy savings. The building has been finished to a high standard, Mr Murphy said.

FRS has confirmed to the Leinster Express / Laois Live why they chose to expand to Portlaoise. Read below.

The office building was refurbished and bought as a turnkey development, at a cost of 1.62 million, with a 1.34 million grant from Enterprise Ireland using the Regional Development Enterprise Fund, and the remaining 280,000 paid by Laois County Council.
Gardai have launch new campaign aimed at raising public awareness of cyber blackmail called Sextortion

As part of a social media campaign the guards are also issuing public guidance on how it can happen and how to respond if you are, or become a victim.

The Gardai say Sextortion is a form of cyber extortion which involves a threat or blackmail of having intimate information, images or clips shared without consent. They say the threat or blackmail may be to get the victim to do or refrain from doing something, or the threat or blackmail may be purely for money or financial gain.

The guards outline that Sextortion can occur in a number of ways:

 During a relationship or where a relationship has broken down  either partner can be the victim

 During online activity, sharing intimate images with another online partner, either strangers or people known to you

 Sharing of images on messaging apps

 Juveniles involved in the sharing of intimate images, in addition to being open to potential sextortion and online bullying, the sharing of any intimate image of a juvenile is Child Sexual Abuse Material.

An Garda Siochana has today posted on its social media a series of text conversations.

A Garda statement added that the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020 or more commonly known as Cocos Law was enacted on in February 2021. To date, the guards say that they have commenced 72 prosecutions related to 49 investigations.

Some case examples that have been finalised before the courts include:

In April 2021 a female reported intimate image of her captured on hidden camera in the shower and circulated without consent. Male prosecuted and sentenced to 12 months imprisonment.

In May 2021 a female reported an intimate video had been shared without consent. Male prosecuted and sentenced to 6months (under appeal)

The Gardai highlighted in the published Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence report (an-garda-siochana-domestic- sexual-and-gender-based- violence-report-sept-22.pdf) that of 471 incidents of Blackmail/Extortion including intimate material, 82% of these involved male victims with almost 30% of victims being in the 18-24 age group.

The guards add that according to www.Hotline.ie, the Irish national centre responsible for combatting illegal content online, they received 688 reports in relation to Intimate Image Abuse (IIA) in 2022. There has been a 93% successful removal rate by Hotline.ie, and the removal of intimate images takes an average 0-3 days.

Detective Superintendent Ian Lackey of the Garda National Protective Services Bureau said: "We recognise that there are victims of sextortion that may not necessarily realise that what they are experiencing is very serious, criminal and can be subject to prosecution.

"We want people to know that it does not matter what age, gender, background, qualification, profession or personal circumstances you are in  this can happen anyone. There is no shame or embarrassment to be associated with sextortion.

"We have no doubt whatsoever that there are victims experiencing this in silence, who must feel stressed or alone not knowing where to turn, but we are here to help and support.

"An Garda Siochana is fully committed to supporting victims of these crimes to feel fully safe and protected. You can come forward to us confidentially if you have been affected by sextortion or are experiencing it at present. Please contact us whether in person at any Garda Station or by phone.

He added, "Raising awareness of the possible warning signs of sextortion can help in ensuring fewer people are affected, but our campaign is also aimed at shifting public attitudes. Society can support us in our work to increase awareness around these types of crimes.

Gardai also outlined the warning signs:

Something does not add up  their online profile is not consistent with what you see and hear when you talk or chat with them.

Theyre moving too fast  they express strong emotions for you almost straight away, and quickly tempt you across to a more private channel, suggesting you get nude or sexual in a video call.

They make excuses  they say their webcam is not working and instead send a nude photo which they claim is of them.

They say they need help  they say they need money for some sort of personal emergency like medical treatment or to cover the rent

MORE BELOW POST

Garda advice is as follows:

 Dont panic, help and support is available

 Dont pay

 Save the evidence: Take screenshots. Save messages and images. Collect URL links to where the information is being shared online

 Report it to any Garda Station as well as via the online reporting facility available on Hotline.ie so they can process a content removal request

 Block all communication with the person targeting you

 If you are in an intimate relationship and it is happening to you, seek help and report to your local Garda Station

 Advice for parents of children and juveniles sharing images: https://www.garda.ie/en/crime/ online-child-exploitation/
A councillor has demanded answers from the Health Service Executive on why a Laois village's health centre has remained closed since the Covid pandemic eased.

Cllr Barry Walsh tabled a motion to the February meeting of Portlaoise Municipal District.

He wants the council to ask the HSE for an update regarding if or when Ballinakill health centre will reopen.

I have had a couple of enquiries from residents in Ballinakill. It is not open since Covid.

It can be difficult for some people to get into the main towns.

A lot of areas would benefit if it was open for one day a week.

I'd be pushing for the HSE to reopen it.

I hope we get a response from the HSE, Cllr Walsh said.

Cllr John Joe Fennelly seconded the motion.

Any service that is taken away from any area is not good. I look forward to the response from the HSE,  he said.

Laois County Council will now send a letter to the HSE with the query.
A young mother has been laid to rest in Laois following a long health battle.

Natalia Pilch, from Rathevan Heights in Portlaoise, is survived by her only child, Michal, 17.

The Polish lady had gained support from the community in an online fundraiser, which raised over 27,000 for her as she underwent medical attention for a heart condition. Link at end of story.

She died on February 23 after an illness borne with dignity and courage.

The dearly loved and cherished mother to Michal Marczeski is mourned by her loving parents Ewa and Ryszard Pilch, her sister Karolina and nephew Kacper. Natalia will also be sadly missed by her best friend Anna.

Her remains had reposed at Keegans Funeral Home on Sunday with removal on Monday to Requiem Mass at SS Peter and Paul's Church at 12 noon followed by private cremation.

Sympathy was expressed to her family at the Laois County Council monthly meeting.

Cllr Caroline Dwane Stanley offered her sympathy.

"To the Polish community on the death of Natalia Pilch. A very sad and tragic death of a young woman that has left her young son an orphan. Her extended family came over from Poland for the funeral today," Cllr Dwane Stanley said.

The community has also offered many messages of sympathy to Michal.

"Michal our deepest sympathies on the loss of your mum. May she rest in peace," said Sinead Harte from Portlaoise Educate Together NS.

"Heartfelt sympathy to you Michal on the very sad loss of your mum. May she rest in peace," said Ciara Duffy from Portlaoise College.

"My deepest condolences.... Natalia will be missed badly  Rest in peace beautiful soul ," said Grace Czerniga.

See the Gofundme link here.
Transition year students in Portlaoise have just returned with great memories from an unforgettable and historic school tour to Spain.

On Sunday, February 19, 27 very excited Dunamase College pupils and two of their teachers flew out to Granada in Spain. This was a momentous occasion as it was the first time that students from the school went on a tour abroad. Tap NEXT or ARROW to see more pictures. To read more about the tour - see below picture.



They began each morning with a Spanish class after a traditional Spanish breakfast. In their classes they learned about Granada, its attractions and famous landmarks. They explored the city and walked through the stunning historic centre and its moresque streets. Lunch was typical Spanish tapas.

Day two saw them have fun with a treasure hunt through the city, where they had to complete a series of tasks and use their Spanish to do so. The hunt ended in the ancient part of the city where they climbed to a viewing point to take in the breath-taking views of Granada, the Alhambra and some authentic flamenco playing.

After classes on the third day they visited the majestic Alhambra and the Generalife palaces. They were truly amazed by the beauty and architecture. The afternoon was spent strolling through the old Arabic market, visiting the local craft shops and monuments. The students spent every opportunity they had using and practicing their Spanish.

A school tour would not be complete without a bit of shopping!

On their last full day they visited the Nevada shopping centre (the largest in the area) and spent the day shopping and engaging with learning activities while they shopped. They had to complete a series of fun tasks aimed at boosting their knowledge of Spanish. They enjoyed lunch against the snowy back drop of Sierra Nevada.

The tired but happy students made their way home to Ireland from Malaga Airport on Friday, February 24. They had a fantastic week sightseeing, speaking Spanish and experiencing Spanish culture. They have made memories that will last a lifetime and cannot wait to share these with the whole school community, families and friends.

Thanks to all the parents and Transition Spain for the support and effort this week in making this trip a fantastic and very successful experience. Thank you also to teachers Lauren and Christian who travelled with the students and ensured that they had a wonderful experience.

Hasta pronto Espana!
The people of Laois are being invited to join the Laois Public Participation Network (PPN) as part of a new national campaign to raise awareness of the Networks which operate right around Ireland.

The call-out comes as a new national brand identity and awareness campaign for Public Participation Networks was launched by Minister for Community Development and Charities, Joe OBrien in Dublin this week.

Laois PPN is one of 31 PPNs that have been established in all local authority areas in the State, and its membership stands at 667 organisations. Nationally, more than 18,000 community and voluntary groups are currently members of a PPN.

Public Participation Networks allow local authorities to connect with community groups around their county. PPNs give people a greater say in local government decisions that affect their communities.

Dan Bergin, Laois PPN Resource Worker, said: Laois PPN was established in March 2015 and is the main link through which the Local Authority connects with the Community and Voluntary, Social Inclusion and Environmental groups within County Laois. The PPN facilitates groups to nominate PPN representatives to decision and policy making bodies in the county such as the LCDC, SPCs and the JPC.

Laois PPN in collaboration with our long-term partners Laois County Council hosted the first in person Community & Voluntary Awards since pre Covid celebrating the fantastic work of Community Groups and their volunteers who enhance the quality of life of people in our communities.

Laois PPN support PPN Member groups through a variety of well attended training and capacity building events and as an information hub on funding opportunities and public consultations, said Mr Bergin.

John Mulholland, Chief Executive of Laois County Council said: The PPN structures offer Local Authorities a way to collaborate directly with volunteer community groups, who do so much for their localities.

PPNs play an important role in developing our key policies and strategies, and each Local Authority provides considerable support to their local PPNs in recognition of this.

This campaign will boost the profiles of PPNs, which is well-deserved in light of their work, he said.

Speaking at the launch of the PPNs new national brand identity and awareness campaign, Minister OBrien encouraged volunteer-led group around the country, and particularly young people, to join their local PPN. He said: Public Participation Networks give communities across Ireland a voice in local decision-making and bring valuable on-the-ground, experience and expertise into local and national policy development.

The strength and impact of PPNs can be seen in how they represented volunteers and community groups within the responses to Covid-19, working with local authorities and state agencies.

Through local action, PPNs also contribute to policymaking at national level, such as the development of the Climate Action Plan 2021, when PPNs hosted and facilitated important local community conversations around the country.

For further information, visit the website of Laois PPN: www.laoisppn.ie/

ABOUT PPNs

PPNs were established under the Local Government Reform Act 2014, to connect with volunteer-run groups around the country. They provide a mechanism by which citizens can have a greater say in local government decisions that affect their own communities.

A PPN is a network for Community and Voluntary, Social Inclusion and Environmental groups in each local authority area. PPNs allow local authorities to connect with volunteer-run groups around the country. As a result, PPNs provide a mechanism by which citizens can have a greater say in local government decisions that affect their own communities.

PPNs provide the voice of the community for local authority boards and committees. Where a local authority requires a representative from the community to sit on their boards or committees such as Strategic Policy Committees or Local Development (LCDCs), they must source this representative from the PPN. PPNs work to enable the community to be represented in decision-making processes that impact citizens through representation on council committees, consultation processes, policy submissions and more.
The death has occurred of Patrick (Patsy) O'Grady

St. Patrick's Park, Celbridge, Kildare



O'Grady, Patrick (Patsy), St. Patrick's Park, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, February 25th 2023, after a long illness bravely borne. Lovingly and tenderly cared for over the past 4 years by the amazing staff at Moyglare Nursing Home, Maynooth. Predeceased by his loving wife Rose and siblings Peter, Seamus and Ann (BaBa), sadly missed by his daughters Carole, Geraldine and Angela, son Peter, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, cherished grandchildren and great-granddaughter, his sister Barbara, extended family and a large circle of friends.

Rest In Peace

Patrick will be reposing at Oliver Reilly's Funeral Home, Leinster St., Maynooth (W23V99E) on Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm with evening prayers at 7:30pm. Removal from the funeral home on Wednesday at approx 10:30am to arrive at St. Patrick's Church, Celbridge, for 11:30am funeral Mass followed by burial in Donacomper Cemetery, Celbridge. Those who are unable to attend the funeral, please leave a personal message for the family in the condolences section below.

The funeral Mass can be viewed live on Wednesday at 11:30am by clicking on the following link : https://www.celstra.ie/live

Oliver Reilly Funeral Directors accept no responsibility for any live webcam interruptions or issues.

Family flowers only please, donations can be made in memory of Patrick, to Diabetes Ireland by clicking on the following link : https://www.diabetes.ie

House Private Please

For all enquiries, please contact Oliver Reilly Ltd. Funeral Directors on (045) 868230.

The death has occurred of Kathleen Dooley (nee Murphy)

Woodlands, Castledermot, Kildare, R14 P902



Predeceased by her mother and father Margaret and Bill, sister Bridget, brother Willie.

Deeply regretted by her loving husband Tom, son Mark, daughter Lorraine, sisters Martina, Mary, Bernadette and Margaret, brother John, granddaughter Eve, daughter-in-law Niamh, son-in-law Liam, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and a large circle of friends.

MAY KATHLEEN REST IN PEACE.

Reposing at her residence on Sunday from 1pm concluding with Rosary at 8pm.Removal on Monday morning at 9:30am to The Church Of The Assumption,Castledermot arriving for Requiem Mass at 10am followed by burial in Coltstown Cemetery.

Kathleen funeral mass can be viewed on :https://www.churchservices.tv/Castledermot

The death has occurred of Andrew Fitzpatrick

86 Arconagh, Naas, Kildare



Formerly of Hazelmere, Naas.

Former Shelbourne FC player.

peacefully at Naas Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Husband of the late Betty (my auld flower). Sadly missed by his loving children Andrew, Kieran, Celine, Una and Colm, sons and daughters in law, his 19 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, brothers and sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours, friends and those people over the years, big and little, who were inspired and adored by him.

May Andrew Rest In Peace.

Reposing at his family home from 6pm until 9pm on Saturday and from 4pm on Sunday with Rosary at 7 o'clock. Removal by Glennons Funeral Directors on Monday to arrive at The Church of The Irish Martyrs, Ballycane, Naas (eircode W91 K6CT) for requiem mass at 1 o'clock. Burial afterwards in St. Corbans Cemetery, Naas.

The death has occurred of Mary Meredith Bayley (nee Townsend)

Forest View, Southfield, Ballintubbert, Athy, Kildare, R14 WP64 / Laois



Mary Meredith Bayley (nee Townsend) passed, peacefully, on Friday, 24th February, surrounded by her family. Predeceased by her loving husband's Joseph Meredith and Griffith Bayley, deeply missed by her children Derek, Kenneth, Lorraine, Jackie and Alan, sons-in-law Garvan and Kieran, partners Mary and Dency, grandchildren, great -grandchildren, the Bayley family, her sisters, brother, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Reposing at her home R14 WP64 on Monday 27th from 3pm, concluding with prayers at 7pm. Funeral Mass on Tuesday 28th at 11am in St. Michaels Parish Church, Athy. Burial afterwards in Ballintubbert Cemetery R14 H027.The Funeral Mass will be live streamed and can be viewed by clicking on the following link Athy Parish Webcam.

Messages of sympathy and condolences for the family may be left by selecting Condolences below.

The death has occurred of Nicholas Travers

Ballinteer, Dublin / Kilcock, Kildare



Suddenly and unexpectedly. Sadly missed and deeply regretted by his wife Maura and their sons Gordon and Nicky, daughter-in-law Rachel, his treasured grandchildren Sam, Jamie and Holly, his sisters Catherine and Frances, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and fiends.

May he Rest in Peace.





Funeral Arrangements Later
The Ear to the Ground programme visits Punchestown as part of a feature on a young jockey.

A programme spokesperson said: "As Cheltenham rolls around again, Ear To The Ground presenter Darragh Mc Cullough spent a day with one of Irelands up and coming young jockeys, 22 year old Darragh OKeeffe from Doneraile in Co. Cork.

"Darragh met Darragh at the crack of dawn at the yard of trainer Enda Bolger near Bruree in Co Limerick where he was exercising horses that morning, before heading on to Punchestown in Co. Kildare where he had four aces that afternoon.

"It's a fascinating insight into the daily grind of a jobbing jockey as they work to forge a career in one of the toughest businesses around."

The programme will also feature alpacas in Co Roscommon.

South African born Andrew Chilton runs a family farm with organic beef and vegetable in North Roscommon. Ten years ago he

also started farming and breeding alpacas.

Now with a herd of over 40 high quality animals, he sells them as live animals and utilises their valuable fleece to produce pillows and bedding.

Ella McSweeney pays a visit to Knockvicar Alpaca Farm to find out how these animals, originally from South America, are taking to the Irish climate.
By Eimear Dodd

A man who stole his pregnant girlfriend's phone after assaulting her at her home will be sentenced later this year.

Daragh Houlihan (33) of Chapel Lane, Newbridge, Co. Kildare, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery on May 4, 2021 on Rathmines Road. He has no previous convictions.

Adjourning the case for the preparation of a probation report, Judge Orla Crowe said today it was deeply concerning to the court that this incident involved the robbery of an intimate partner, who was pregnant.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the injured party was making dinner at 5.30pm, while Houlihan was in the kitchen with her. The victim attempted to make conversation with the defendant, but he didn't respond. She then suggested he went home, as they weren't living together. Houlihan then walked over to where the victim was standing and asked her why she didn't want to talk to him.

The victim was holding a knife, which he asked her to drop, then he went to grab it. She turned round, and Houlihan was holding the blade with both hands. The pair wrestled for the knife for about one minute. The victim was crying and asking Houlihan to let go of the blade, afraid of what might happen if she let go.

The injured party shouted blood after seeing it on her thumb. Houlihan let go of the knife and it transpired that it was his blood on the victim.

He accused her of stabbing him. She suggested they call an ambulance, but Houlihan said she wanted her phone to call the gardai.

Her phone then started to ring and Houlihan grabbed it, demanding she give him the code to unlock it. He then pushed her several times, including onto the ground.

Houlihan left the apartment and the victim heard him lock the front door from outside. From the window, she saw Houlihan pick up her phone, which led her to believe that he had thrown it.

The defendant shouted abuse up at her. She asked him to return the keys, which he threw up to her.

Houlihan then walked towards Rathmines and the victim followed him to ask for her phone back. During this encounter, Houlihan pushed her again, and struck her with his leg. He then threw her phone over a wall then ran through a set of closing gates.

The victim went to the garda station where she was observed to be in a distressed state.

Gardai went to the Mater Hospital the next day, where Houlihan was being treated for an injury to his hand. He accepted that he had stolen the victim's phone, which he gave to gardai.

Houlihan was arrested and told gardai during interview that he had taken the phone, but denied pushing her or any violent behaviour. He told gardai he felt ridiculous and sorry so he went to retrieve her phone.

The defendant said he took the phone as he believed the injured party was texting someone about him, and this upset him.

He accepted he was cut while trying to grab the knife. Houlihan told gardai he didn't believe the injured party would stab him during the course of an argument, but he wanted to put the knife out of reach. Houlihan also said the victim threatened to jump out of a window during the argument, and he may have used force to stop her.

A victim impact statement was read by Shaun Smyth BL, prosecuting. In it, the woman said the incident had destroyed any sense of safety she felt in the apartment and she was left terrified.

She said she blamed herself for what happened and suffers from flashbacks. The victim said she was broken down so much that she thought what happened was her fault, but now realises it was not.

The investigating garda agreed with defence counsel that his client was cooperative and made a partial admission when interviewed. It was also accepted that the guilty plea was of value to the prosecution.

Defence counsel said his client has addiction issues with cocaine and heroin, but is completing a residential treatment programme. His client has a history of employment, and worked for periods abroad.

Houlihan's relationship with his ex-partner has improved, defence counsel said.

Defence counsel asked Judge Crowe to be as lenient as possible when sentencing Houlihan and to consider finalising the case with no immediate custodial sentence.

Judge Crowe said the court was concerned that the defendant's substance abuse could have contributed to this incident. She also noted that intimate partner violence is considered to be an aggravating factor under legislation.

Judge Crowe ordered the preparation of a Probation Report and urine analysis for the next court date on June 19.
Chinese firms swarm back to MWC 2023, as Huawei, ZTE, Xiaomi to lead nations showing

By Zhang Hongpei and Yan Huan (Global Times) 09:09, February 27, 2023

Photo taken on Feb. 23, 2021 shows a view of the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Shanghai 2021 in east China's Shanghai.(Photo: Xinhua)

Chinese telecom and information technology enterprises are coming back to the Mobile World Congress 2023 with enthusiasm to demonstrate their latest innovations and products, in a bid to tap into new business opportunities and gain a bigger footprint in the European markets and beyond.

As the first major telecom industry event in post-pandemic phase, the four-day expo in Barcelona, Spain, from February 27 to March 2, has attracted an array of leading Chinese firms including telecommunications equipment makers Huawei Technologies and ZTE Corp, smartphone vendors OPPO and Xiaomi, personal computer maker Lenovo, and telecom carriers China Unicom and China Telecom.

Although COVID-19 still has a lingering impact such as the number of international flights to Spain being cut, the enthusiasm among Chinese attendees has not been affected.

The total number of attendees stands at 4,000 to 5,000, nearly 60 percent of the pre-COVID peak, John Hoffman, CEO and director of the GSM Association (GSMA), the MWC organizer, told the Global Times. The pandemic forced the organizer to cancel the 2020 session and postpone the 2021 event to June.

More than 80,000 industry experts, researchers, business leaders and executives will visit MWC 2023 to see more than 2,000 exhibitors demonstrate their innovations.

Apart from the return of Chinese industry behemoths such as Huawei and ZTE, many technology firms from Shenzhen, a tech hub in South China's Guangdong Province, are coming back to the event, bringing the total number of Chinese firms to around 150.

It's an active signal of a rebound, "which we feel very excited about," Hoffman said.

He said that unlike the low-key style of Chinese tech firms during previous exhibits, this year they are more willing to tell their stories and share their experience in areas where China has built up obvious advantages like 5G.

The nation has built the world's largest 5G network and has the largest number of 5G subscribers.

Liu Dingding, a Beijing-based tech industry observer, told the Global Times on Sunday that cutting-edge technologies such as satellite communication and folding screen technology may be unveiled at the MWC by Chinese companies.

As one of the 5G pioneers, Huawei will showcase 10 new energy-efficient, high-performance wireless network products and solutions, which will help operators evolve all bands to 5G through multiple unique innovations in the industry, the company said. The company's new P60 line of smartphones is expected to be exhibited during the event. The new phones could be equipped with second-generation satellite communications technology, media reports said.

Chinese smartphone vendor Xiaomi is set to launch the Xiaomi 13 series at MWC 2023. The Xiaomi 13 series was first introduced in China last year and includes the Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro models.

Another smartphone vendor OPPO said it will showcase a selection of devices including its flagship foldable smartphone OPPO Find N2 Flip, new connectivity products and Internet of Things technology, as well as its research and development breakthroughs in chip technology, smart health and augmented reality.

Since the launch of its Find N2 series, it has ranked top in the domestic foldable smartphone market in terms of sales.

In January, sales of foldable mobile phones in the Chinese market increased by 54 percent year-on-year and 57 percent month-on-month. Among them, OPPO's sales jumped by 483 percent year-on-year and gave it a 30 percent market share, data from consultancy CINNO showed.

Last year, global smartphone shipments slid to the lowest level since 2013, declining by 12 percent to 1.2 billion units, data from Counterpoint Research showed. Global smartphone revenue fell by 9 percent to $409 billion, the lowest since 2017.

"The impact of the pandemic is easing, but for domestic mobile phone players, risks and opportunities will coexist for a long period, and to stimulate consumers' desire to buy new phones is where our technology should aim," an OPPO representative told the Global Times.

"We believe that foldable mobile phones will become the main models in the mainstream mobile phone market in the next five years," the representative said.

Big Chinese smartphone makers increased their presence at this year's MWC to project themselves as global players and the event will offer a good opportunity for them to tap into European markets and beyond, according to Liu.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A workshop held on the sidelines of the recent Gulfood in Dubai shed light on the added value that halal certification brings to Brazilian companies, enabling them to penetrate the markets of Islamic countries.

It also highlighted the markets significance in the international business landscape. Furthermore, the workshop, organised by the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) together with the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil), also provided an ideal opportunity for companies to learn more about the halal market and its requirements for gaining the certification, through several lectures.

The global market for halal products is expanding due to the growing Muslim population and economies. This, along with the trust in halal-certified products is creating more innovative opportunities in the market. The workshop covered this topic along with how the certification verifies a product is suitable for consumption, and raised awareness about the value this accreditation brings for businesses across various industries.

Brazilian food exporters

The workshop titled How Halal Will Boost the Internationalisation of Your Brand? brought together over 40 Brazilian food exporting companies, which was led by a group of professionally qualified, international Halal certifiers.

Furthermore, the ABCC also aimed to detail the operations of the halal system and identified the elements that contribute to the growth of the sector.

One of these factors is the growing Muslim populace, which is expected to increase in the coming years in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Another factor is the economic growth of Muslim-majority countries, which is expanding at a faster rate than the global average.

Tamer Mansour, Secretary General and CEO of the ABCC highlighted the importance of expanding the reach of halal in Brazil outside beef and poultry, two products in which Brazil is already the world's top producer and exporter. Paula Soares, Manager of ApexBrasil's Agribusiness spoke at the events opening, and Rafael Solimeo, Head of the ABCC International Office in Dubai, gave the closing remarks for the event.

High potential

Ashraf El Tanbouly, CEO of the Islamic Chamber of Halal Services (ICHS) stated that there are several possibilities in the halal industry. The halal industry is a high-potential avenue. Therefore, it is imperative to bring producers and traders together to explore opportunities in the sector and build meaningful relationships as well as strategies that accelerate growth in the industry.

Safi emphasised the significance of the Halal do Brasil initiative, which focuses mainly on assist Brazilian companies to enter the halal market. We believe that the Halal do Brasil project holds paramount significance since the halal market is expected to expand and continue to thrive. Through this project, we will continue our mission to assisting more Brazilian goods to enter the halal market as well as help companies receive the certification, he added.

Tarras highlighted the importance of halal goods in both industry and retail. Through halal, the complete productive chain expands and progresses. Even in nations that are new to the industry, for instance like the United States, the halal business is becoming more significant and witnessing an upward trend, he added.

Alan Oliveira, Founder of the Pantanal Trading stated that the workshop enabled attendees to understand the significance of the halal market. In Brazil, we produce products such as cosmetics, coffee, fruits etc. This workshop has enabled us to learn about the halal system and we intend to incorporate those in our processes.-- TradeArabia News Service
A new European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) is to be established in the Northern and Western region to help SMEs apply cutting-edge technologies and digital skills to their businesses.

The online hub, with 5.4 million in funding, will support regional SMEs over the next three years and be connected to a network of over 200 other EDIHs across the European Union.

EDIHs offer a portfolio of free services to help companies in Leitrim and across the Northwest to become more competitive through the adoption of digital technologies.

Businesses that engage these one-stop-shops for firms with digital challenges will be able to gain expertise on research and development in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Blockchain technologies. The hub will also be used by public sector bodies to help make their services more efficient.

Users will be able to access applied digital research, expertise and solutions from the regions universities  including Atlantic Technological University and University of Galway  through a number of channels and technology transfer centres.

The new EDIH, which will be called Data2Sustain, will drive digital transformation for businesses across a range of sectors, including Agri and Bio-based Food, Marine and Aquaculture, MedTech and Lifesciences, Manufacturing and Engineering, Construction, Tourism and Public Services. A particular focus will be applied to the circular economy and smarter and greener processes, systems, products, services and business modelsSMEs and public sector agencies can access the hubs services through a region-wide network of contact points including Local Enterprise Offices, universities and Udaras na Gaeltachta  giving it one of the largest footprints of service provision in the country.

Chris OMalley, Vice-President of the Atlantic Technological University (Sligo Campus), said: The majority of Irish small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) have little knowledge of the requirements of digitalisation and are hesitant to embark on their own digital innovation projects. We are enabling businesses to gain better access to data or use solutions powered by artificial intelligence. The programme also invests to ensure that our regional talent can get the right skills to actively participate in the labour market. The aim is that everyone in the region  citizens, businesses and public services  can benefit from market-ready technological solutions.

Northern and Western Regional Assembly Director David Minton said: This new hub will support start-ups, SMEs and other businesses, as well as the public sector in their digital transformation. It has a focus on circular economy, operations and sustainability areas, utilising AI, HPC and cybersecurity technological competence, with particular emphasis on data and data analytics-driven innovation and regard to energy consumption and low-carbon emissions.

What is really thrilling is that members of this new EDIH can use any of the other 200 innovation hubs across Europe. This means, for example, that a company in Connemara can avail of research in Denmark that might assist its business with a technology such as Blockchain or Robotics.

Similarly, a company in France, could access our regions new EDIH for essential research or knowledge at Atlantic Technological University or the University of Galway to help advance its business, service or product. The hub is a coordinated cadre of organisations with complementary expertise, with a not-for-profit objective.

In a report on the digitalisation of SMEs in Ireland, the European Investment Bank said the country had a two-speed digital economy with the divide most obvious in the Northern and Western region. EDIHs combine the benefits of a regional presence with the opportunities available to a pan-European network that can exploit radical disruptions in advanced digital technologies.

Helena Deane of the West Regional Enterprise Plan, said: "Data2Sustain will be a leading EDIH helping to create smarter, greener, more sustainable processes, systems, products, services and business models, which are instrumental to advancing the digital and green transformation. This will have a profoundly positive impact on the region."
Burkina Faso soldiers patrol a camp sheltering Malian refugees, in Dori in 2020 OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT / AFP

Nineteen people, including nine volunteers with the armed forces, were killed in two attacks in jihadist-torn Burkina Faso, local residents and a security source said on Monday, February 13.

Seven members of the VDP volunteer force had been killed in a mass attack on February 9, in the northwestern village of Dembo, a senior official with the militia told news agency AFP.

On Sunday, a "terrorist group" killed 12 people, including two VDP members, at Yargatenga, a village near the eastern border with Togo and Ghana, local sources said. "This is the third time that Yargatenga has been targeted in a month," a local official said, saying the town's commissioner had been killed in an ambush on February 1.

Read more Suspected jihadists kill 10 Niger soldiers

The attack in Dembo was carried out by "around 100 armed men who surged into the village in pickups and on motorcycles, opening fire before taking on the VDP," an official with the volunteer force told AFP. "We lost seven members in the fighting, which lasted more than three hours. Several attackers were also killed but their bodies were taken away" by the assailants, he said.

He added that a petrol shortage meant VDP units could not pursue the attackers, although a military force had arrived from Nouna, around 15 kilometres (nine miles) away, on Friday morning.

"Residents have been packing their bags since the weekend," one local in the area told AFP, saying that "terrorists" had arrived in Dembo several times since the beginning of the year "but until now they hadn't killed anyone."

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Burkina Faso and the roots of resentment against France

The attacks brought the death toll from armed insurgents to around 60 for last week alone, up from around 50 the week before. One of the world's poorest nations, Burkina Faso has been rocked by a jihadist insurgency that spilled over from neighbouring Mali in 2015.

Thousands have been killed, more than 2 million people have fled their homes and around 40% of the country lies outside the government's control. Anger within the military at the mounting death toll fuelled two coups last year.

Le Monde with AFP
Israeli settlers sit in a car next to Israeli members of the military, in the aftermath of an incident where a Palestinian gunman killed two Israeli settlers, near Hawara in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, February 27, 2023. AMMAR AWAD / REUTERS

France on Monday, February 27, condemned an attack by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, saying "violence against Palestinian civilians is unacceptable."

France "strongly condemns" the attack targeting a town where two Israeli brothers were killed, the foreign ministry said in a statement, adding that there was a risk that the situation in the West Bank could "deteriorate out of control."

Read more At Jordan talks Israel, Palestinians pledge to prevent new violence

France was calling on all parties "to avoid fuelling the violence, and to contribute to de-escalation", the statement said. "As part of its responsibility as an occupying power" the Israeli government needed to "protect Palestinian civilians" and find the perpetrators of the attacks in which cars and homes were set ablaze in the northern town of Huwara, the ministry said.

Germany, meanwhile, said it was "urgent" that the tense situation is not further inflamed, following deadly violence and arson by Israeli settlers targeting a town where two Israeli brothers were killed.

Read more Israeli settlers rampage after Palestinian gunman kills 2

A foreign ministry spokesperson in Berlin welcomed weekend talks in Jordan, adding it was "urgent that agreements to de-escalate the situation are respected, and that everyone now works to prevent the already very tense situation from becoming further inflamed."

Le Monde with AFP
French President Emmanuel Macron gestures as he gives a speech outlining France's revamped strategy for Africa ahead of his visit to Central Africa, at the Elysee Palace in Paris on February 27, 2023. STEFANO RELLANDINI / AFP

President Emmanuel Macron on Monday, February 27, announced a "noticeable reduction" of French troop presence in Africa, where anti-French sentiment is running high in some former colonies.

He was speaking in Paris ahead of a four-nation tour of central African countries from Wednesday, as France seeks to counter growing Chinese and Russian influence in the region. Macron is to visit Gabon for an environmental summit, followed by Angola, then the Republic of Congo and finally the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.

Paris has fallen out with new military authorities in Mali and Burkina Faso, withdrawing its troops from both former French colonies after years of helping the authorities there battle jihadists.

France still has thousands of troops in the wider Sahel region, including in Niger and Chad, but is seeking to tone down its presence on the ground. Macron described this as a "reorganization" of French military presence, rather than a withdrawal.

"The change will happen in the coming months with a noticeable reduction of our numbers and a greater presence in these bases of our African partners," he said. "We will remain but with a reduced footprint."

"We will do more training, more equipping and better accompanying" of local troops according to their needs, he said.

Some military bases would become academies, while others would become "partner" bases, he added. They would see a "rise in the presence of their African partners according to goals defined" by these partners, he added.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes 'It would be too easy to see the hand of Moscow as the sole reason behind France's spectacular ouster from Africa'

'Criminal mercenaries'

Concern has mounted in Paris over the growing role of Russia in French-speaking African countries, alongside a Chinese push for influence that has been apparent for some years.

France and its Western allies accuse the Russian mercenary group Wagner, infamous for its activities in Syria and Ukraine, of being active in Mali and the Central African Republic, also ruled by France in the colonial era.

Reports suggest Wagner is seeking to implant itself in Burkina Faso, claims Moscow dismissed last week. In recent months, Paris has also accused Russia of spreading disinformation to undermine French interests on the continent.

Macron on Monday described Wagner as "a group of criminal mercenaries (...) acting as life insurance for failing regimes or those who seized power by force."

He dismissed the group as only bringing a "security response" to a country's issues, at the cost of "preying on mines, raw materials."

French sources earlier this year said a Wagner delegation had visited mineral-rich Burkina Faso, where a Russian firm already operates several gold mines. Macron has insisted Africa is a priority of his second mandate in power, and in July he undertook a trip to Cameroon, Benin and Guinea-Bissau.

Monday's address followed a 2017 speech to students at a university in Burkina Faso in which he pledged to break away from his country's former post-colonial policies on the continent of more than 50 countries.

In that speech, he criticized "the crimes of European colonization" and called for a "truly new relationship" between Africa and Europe.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes Wagner Group's influence spreads across Africa even as war rages in Ukraine

'Mutual relationship'

On Monday, Macron again sought to distance himself from the past.

"To measure our influence through a number of military operations (...) or to consider that certain economic markets are rightfully ours because we were there before  these are things of the past," he said.

"We need to build a new balanced, mutual and responsible relationship" with African countries, he said. He also said a new bill would be put forward in parliament in the coming weeks toward repatriating more artworks to African countries.

Calls have grown in Africa for Western countries to hand back colonial spoils from their museums and private collections. French lawmakers in 2020 passed a bill allowing Paris to return artifacts to former colonies Benin and Senegal.

Macron will arrive in Gabon, a former French colony, on Wednesday to attend the One Forest Summit on preserving forests along the vast Congo River basin. He will then head to the former Portuguese colony of Angola as part of a drive to enhance French ties with English- and Portuguese-speaking parts of Africa.

After the Republic of Congo, another former French colony, he will end his trip in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo  ruled by Belgium during the colonial era  on Friday and Saturday.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes 'In the Sahel region, French officers operated with a colonial mindset'

Le Monde with AFP
ALMOST 59,000 homes and businesses in Limerick now have access to high-speed broadband following a multi-million euro investment.

Telecommunications giant eir has pumped 37m into the delivery of the measure in Limerick, and on completion, some 83,000 premises across the county will have fibre broadband.

Nationally, eir has ensured one million businesses and homes across the State now have access to high-speed internet, with the firm saying it now means Ireland is on its way to becoming one of the most fibre-connected countries in the world.

The announcement was made at an industry event this week at The Exo, Dublins highest office building, attended by Environment Minister Eamon Ryan, eir chief executive Oliver Loomes, and its chairman David McRedmond.

Mr Loomes said: "I'm delighted that eir's fibre roll-out sees Ireland become one of the best countries in Europe for broadband internet access. Last year we were in the top eight for fibre access; this year I expect we'll be in the top five. This is a major breakthrough for Ireland to become a top digital nation and it is in large part due to the efforts of our incredible teams who have worked tirelessly, in all conditions, to get this vital project done and connect homes and businesses for a better Ireland."

Mr Ryan added: "We are witnessing a double-tracked industrial revolution of our time, a revolution in renewable energy along with a revolution in digitalisation. Both of these changing landscapes are fundamentally interconnected. At a macro level, if we are to stay ahead of the energy and renewables curve, we need to ensure that technology firms, energy investors, off-shore wind companies know that Ireland is a modern, digitally advanced country to locate in. At a more micro level, high-speed internet access is increasingly important to be able run businesses or farms, to utilise further smart technologies to make those homes and businesses more energy efficient, to facilitate working remotely or to study from home in any part of the country, for example."
Rishi Sunak has signed a breakthrough deal with the European Union over post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland and will now seek to win the backing of unionists and Tory Eurosceptics.

The Prime Minister and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen finalised the long-awaited agreement to ease the trading issues created by the Northern Ireland Protocol during a summit at Windsor on Monday, sources from both sides told the PA news agency.

An agreement has been reached. The deal is done, a senior Downing Street source said.

The European Commission president will go on to have tea with the King at Windsor Castle despite criticisms that the meeting would drag Charles into the politically contentious deal.

Mr Sunak hopes the deal will win the approval of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) so powersharing can be restored in Northern Ireland to get Stormont back up and running.

DUP support would also be key in convincing Conservative Brexiteers to back the deal as pressure mounted on the Prime Minister to give MPs a Commons vote.

Party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson said: Well take our time to consider the detail and measure a deal against our seven tests.

The pound leaped higher against the US dollar and the euro after the deal was struck.

Earlier in the day, Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg warned Mr Sunak of a possible Tory revolt if the DUP does not support the deal, despite major concessions expected from the EU.

The former cabinet minister told GB News: It will all depend on the DUP. If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

He said that the position of Boris Johnson, who he described as the biggest figure in UK politics, will be fundamental.

But arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister who had been on resignation watch, gave Mr Sunak his support.

Leaving No 10, he told broadcasters: I can only say this: that the Prime Minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved.

Charless meeting with Ms von der Leyen was criticised as constitutionally unwise by Mr Rees-Mogg because it involves the King in a matter of immediate political controversy.

Baroness Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and ex-first minister of Northern Ireland, said it was crass and will go down very badly with the unionists Mr Sunak is trying to win over.

Conservative Eurosceptic Theresa Villiers said it is crucial for Mr Sunak to give MPs a vote on the deal, as Downing Street declined to commit to one.

The former Northern Ireland secretary told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I cant conceive of circumstances where something as significant as this could be finally agreed and implemented without MPs voting on it in Parliament.

She said she will consider the deal itself as well as talking to the DUP before deciding whether to support it, but stressed that restoring powersharing was crucial.

Its intolerable that weve got the protocol undermining political stability in Northern Ireland, she said.

Sir Keir Starmer reiterated Labours support for any deal but said the real test will be whether Mr Sunak has got the strength to sell it to his backbenchers or not.

After a speech in the City of London, Sir Keir said it is almost inevitable that the European Court of Justice (ECJ) will have to play some part after the deal, a contentious point for the DUP.

But he said weve got to make progress on Northern Ireland before making real changes to the wider Brexit deal.

The Prime Minister will brief his senior ministers in a virtual meeting of the Cabinet.

He will then rejoin Ms von der Leyen to set out the deal to voters in a joint press conference before the Prime Minister makes a statement to MPs in the Commons.

Tory Brexiteers in the European Research Group (ERG) will convene MP Sir Bill Cashs so-called star chamber of lawyers to scrutinise the deal before deciding whether to back it.

The protocol, signed by Mr Johnson as prime minister in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit.

Northern Ireland has continued to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

But the trade barriers created between Northern Ireland and Great Britain have angered unionists.

The DUP collapsed powersharing at Stormont last year in protest at the protocols impact, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly.

Sir Jeffrey has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet to win DUP backing.

Chief among them is addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

The deal is expected to include check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a substantial scaling back of the role of the ECJ.

But he refused on Sunday to rule out the court having a say on future legal cases, which could prove to be a flashpoint for DUP resistance.

If Mr Sunak does allow a Commons vote, he is likely to win because Labour has agreed to support it, but he would want to succeed without relying on Opposition votes.
Dubai-based Aleph Hospitality, a top hotel management company, has signed an exclusive agreement with France-based Fauchon Hospitality to grow and operate the brands luxury hotel portfolio in the Middle East and Africa.



The agreement signed recently in Paris names Aleph Hospitality as the exclusive developer and operator of the glamourous Fauchon LHotel portfolio in the Middle East and Africa.



The world-renowned Fauchon brand is a luxury contemporary gastronomy leader with a unique French DNA, comprising a collection of over 100 retail boutiques, gourmet cafes and restaurants in 50 countries. Fauchon Hospitality currently has five glamourous boutique hotels in the pipeline with the aim to become a global hospitality company with a luxury collection of 20 hotels by 2030.



Bani Haddad, Founder and Managing Director of Aleph Hospitality, said: We are well aware that an opportunity of this grandeur doesnt happen very often. We are excited and humbled to be partnering with Fauchon Hospitality. We look forward to delivering the brands legendary glamorous Parisian art the vivre experience to hotel guests in the Middle East and Africa. We believe the region has tremendous potential for the aspirational and sophisticated brand experience offered by Fauchon LHotel.



With a focus on cosmopolitan cities and luxury leisure destinations, the Fauchon LHotel portfolio will comprise boutique hotels, retreats, beach clubs and residences in exceptional locations with superior culinary concepts and indulgent private services beyond the usual five-star hospitality experience.



The unique brand promise and concept is centred around the acronym GLAM: Gourmet, featuring Fauchons bespoke reinvented in-room mini bar, the Gourmet Bar; Location for a lively and luxurious lifestyle; Arty & Artisans for creative hotel services and experiences with a Fauchon touch, and Mesdames, the brands unique female touch personified by the Fauchon Beauty Spa, French beauty brands as amenities, in-room lighting and vibrant signature walk-in wardrobes. Each hotel or resort will also feature signature Fauchon F&B concepts such as the Grand Cafe Fauchon and retail.



Jacques-Olivier Chauvin, CEO of Fauchon Hospitality, noted: We are delighted to have partnered with Aleph for development in the Middle East and Africa, which brings world-class hotel management professionalism and credibility to our owners and investors. This region is important to Fauchon Hospitality because a large part of our customer base is located in this area and familiar with our existing Fauchon retail outlets.



With Aleph, we can be confident our signature Fauchon style and service will be flawlessly delivered to customers across the region as we grow our hospitality business. I am excited about the potential of this partnership which unites a powerful, globally recognised brand together with an operating company noted for its excellence and dynamic management style.



Aleph Hospitality, which has targeted 50 hotels in the Middle East and Africa by 2026, manages hotels directly for owners, either with a franchise for branded properties or as a white label operator for independently branded hotels.  TradeArabia News Service
Jenny Schaben |

NASA recently announced Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) as one of the eight HBCUs competitively chosen to receive funding through their new Data Science Equity, Access, and Priority (DEAP) research and education opportunity. NASA allotted a total of $11.7 million to these selected institutions through their Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP), which provides financial assistance through competitive grants to higher education institutions that recruit and retain underrepresented students into STEM fields: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As part of this funding, Lincoln University will receive $1.5 million over three years to train graduate and undergraduate students in data science use for natural resources  on projects related to soil science, wildfire and climate change.

There are not enough minority and underserved people who are using data science and artificial intelligence in the workforce, said Lincoln University Assistant Professor of Natural Resources Dr. Sougata Bardhan, the LU project leader on this initiative.

Lincoln University Assistant Professor of Natural Resources Dr. Sougata Bardhan, will lead a team of five LU students in Ph.D. and graduate programs awarded $1.5 million over three years to utilize data science and big data for soil science, natural resources and in measuring wildfires.

According to Dr. Bardhan, the goal of NASAs MUREP program is to increase the number of unrepresented and minority populations within the STEM workforce. For this initiative, he said that college students will be provided with the necessary education to fulfill those workforce needs and diversify the field.

For the DEAP grant, most of the proposal is focused on data science . . . Big data is essential these days, because we are generating lots of data with new equipment, Bardhan said. Incorporation of data science in various disciplines has significantly advanced, with emphasis on artificial intelligence and machine learning to better understand various natural resource issues. The DEAP opportunity enables HBCU students and faculty to conduct innovative data science research with experts in the field.

To compete for the DEAP funding opportunity, Lincoln University and Dr. Bardhans team submitted their proposal titled Using Data Science to Understand Soil, Wildlife, and Social Disparity of Climate Change and Air Pollution. Through this award, data science and big data will be used for soil science, natural resources and in measuring wildfiresproviding new analytic approaches to solve core problems in earth science research.

We are studying the impact of climate change because climate change affects frequent floods or droughts. All of these things have an impact on our lives, Bardhan said. Often, it is not easy to relate everything together, but scientists who are following those events can see the impact on the community.

Five LU students in Ph.D. and graduate programs will be recruited for LUs DEAP project initiative, along with a research coordinator. Dr. Bardhan reported that they will create reusable modules, certificate programs and short courses that will be administered at various levels of the university and scientific conferences throughout the country. They will also hold workshops for high school students on data science as another way to disperse information. Not everyone is familiar with the essential tools needed for data science, so one of the primary goals for this project is to make this specific knowledge more accessible to students and, in turn, advance data research and increase student interest in the STEM workforce.

Lincoln University has partnered with Harvard University, University of Missouri and Tennessee State University on this initiative. Ten Lincoln students will visit Harvard University every year for two weeks throughout the duration of the 3-year project. The goal of these trips is to inspire students to further their education and see how an institution like Harvard operates, while gaining an opportunity to meet and network with faculty and peers.

For more information on Lincoln University's project Using Data Science to Understand Soil, Wildlife, and Social Disparity of Climate Change and Air Pollution, please contact Dr. Sougata Bardhan at bardhans@lincolnu.edu
Stephanie Cobian |

Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) is looking for support as it takes part in the Retool Your School Campus Improvement Grant, sponsored by Home Depot. In this competition, HBCUs can win up to $150,000 in funding to renovate their campuses. LU is seeking the help of all alumni, students, staff, faculty and the community to win the grant by casting their ballots for them during the voting period, which runs from Feb. 27 to Mar. 26, 2023. The schools with the most votes win!

Click here to vote now (select Cluster 2 to find Lincoln) and scroll down for more ways to support.

The Retool Your School Program awards grants to HBCUs to support their efforts to modernize and improve their campuses. The program has helped HBCUs across the country fund campus improvement projects such as modernized classrooms, enhanced landscaping and upgraded technology. LU is hoping to secure a portion of the grant money to help fund campus projects it has identified that could benefit from renovations.

The competition is expected to be fierce, with many HBCUs vying for a share of the grant money. However, with the support of the alumni, students, staff, faculty and community, LU is confident they can win and bring much-needed improvements to the campus.

Voting is based on a combination of the number of social media votes using LUs unique hashtag  #RYSLUM  and the total click to votes at retoolyourschool.com/vote. Each time #RYSLUM is used, one vote will be earned per post.

How to vote:

Share and mention #RYSLUM on Instagram and Twitter. This includes retweets and reposts. Accounts must be public for the vote to count.

on Instagram and Twitter. This includes retweets and reposts. Accounts must be public for the vote to count. Click to vote at https://retoolyourschool.com/vote . Select Cluster 2 and scroll down to find Lincoln University of Missouri.

. Select Cluster 2 and scroll down to find Lincoln University of Missouri. Participants can vote every day, multiple times per day, during the voting period.

Every vote counts and can help improve Lincoln University for current and future generations. Get out and make your voices heard  #RYSLUM!
In India, sedans are poised to make a comeback next month amidst a market dominated by SUVs. Two major players in the compact sedan segment, the Honda City and Hyundai Verna, are preparing to launch their sixth generation models in March, reigniting their rivalry with contenders such as the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Volkswagen Virtus. Additionally, there are a few other vehicles scheduled for launch in India next month, including an electric car, a CNG-powered vehicle, and a multi-purpose van.

Here is a look at five cars that are expected to launch in India in March.

Honda City

Honda is gearing up to release the latest generation of their standard model sedan, just a few months after launching the powerful hybrid variant, which happens to be India's most popular sedan. Leaked images and reports reveal that the new Honda City boasts several exterior updates compared to its fifth-generation predecessor. Among the most noticeable changes captured in the leaked images of the 2023 Honda City is a revised front bumper. The grille has also been redesigned, though the older LED headlight unit will remain intact. Additionally, the chrome accents on the front of the vehicle have become slimmer compared to the previous generation model.

Hyundai Verna

Hyundai Motor has revealed that the sixth generation Verna will be launched in India on March 21, 2023. The car's appearance has been showcased through teasers and leaked images, revealing a parametric-designed grille and sharp LED headlights at the front, while LED taillights and a light bar at the rear complete the look. Under the hood, the Verna will feature a 1.5 Turbo petrol engine that generates 113 bhp power and 144 Nm peak torque, paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Along with various other new features, it is expected that the Verna will also come equipped with ADAS functionality.

Citroen eC3

Citroen, the French auto giant, has announced the launch of its first electric car in India, following the unveiling of the eC3 earlier this year. Bookings for the eC3 are currently open at a price of 25,000, with the official launch expected to take place in the coming weeks.

The eC3 EV is based on the C3 hatchback, which was introduced in July last year. It is powered by an electric motor producing 57 PS of peak power and 143 Nm of maximum torque, which draws power from a 29.2 kWh battery pack. The eC3 is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 kmph in 6.8 seconds and can reach a top speed of 107 kmph. Citroen claims that the car can travel up to 320 kms on a single charge. The battery pack supports DC fast charging, which can provide a 10-80% charge in just 57 minutes, while using a 15A power socket would require 10.5 hours to charge the battery from 10 to 100%.

Maruti Suzuki Brezza CNG

Maruti Suzuki is set to launch the CNG variant of its popular SUV, the Brezza, following the recent release of the CNG version of its flagship SUV, the Grand Vitara. The Brezza CNG was showcased alongside other upcoming CNG models such as the Tata Punch and Altroz at the Auto Expo last month, and will be the first sub-compact SUV to offer a CNG option. Maruti Suzuki is claiming that the Brezza CNG will deliver a fuel efficiency of over 25 kilometers per kilogram, while the Grand Vitara CNG is expected to offer a fuel efficiency of 26.6 kilometers per kilogram.

Toyota Innova Crysta diesel

Toyota Motor is expected to reveal the price of the diesel variant of the Innova Crysta soon. The Japanese automaker recently started accepting bookings for the model after announcing its return with a diesel engine, several months after introducing the Innova HyCross with a strong hybrid. The new Innova Crysta will feature design tweaks, including a new face. It will be powered by a 2.4-liter diesel engine, which is expected to generate 148 bhp of maximum power and 360 Nm of peak torque.
NEW DELHI : Greenko Energy Holdings has prepaid $500 million of global bonds, scheduled for repayment in August 2023, using its own cash flow. The move brings the companys total repayment of global bonds to $935 million, a person aware of the development said.

The bonds were sold by Greenkos subsidiaryGreenko Investment Company. This pre-payment comes against the backdrop of Greenko earlier this week repaying $435 million of corporate bonds issued by its subsidiary Greenko Mauritius by taking a fresh loan of $425 million.

Queries emailed to a Greenko Group spokesperson on Sunday evening remained unanswered till press time.

Greenko has Indias largest operational clean energy portfolio of 7.3 gigawatts (GW) and has invested $7.5 billion.

It is building a 50-gigawatt hour (GWh) of storage capacity on pumped storage technology (PSP) as part of its plan to set up an energy storage cloud platform of 100 GWh. National Investment and Infrastructure Funds (NIIF) Ayana Renewable Power Pvt. Ltd has partnered with Greenko Group to store 6-GWh of power in hydro pump storage plants that Greenko is building at Pinnapuram in Andhra Pradesh.

According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, Indias January electricity demand grew by 18% to 184GW from a year earlier.

India recorded an all-time high electricity demand of 211.6GW in June and is expected to reach 225GW during the coming summer.

Greenko is active in the green hydrogen space and plans to supply emission-free fuel to Germanys biggest gas trader Uniper.

The green ammonia will be supplied from a 1 million tonne per annum (mtpa) production facility in Kakinada that is being set up by Greenko ZeroC Pvt. Ltd.

Greenko also recently partnered with Singaporean conglomerate Keppel Corp. to jointly explore setting up a 250,000 tonnes green ammonia production facility.

Also, Greenko Group and Belgiums John Cockerill are setting up a 2GW electrolyzer factory in India, one of the worlds largest, through their joint venture, which will require an investment of $500 million.

Global investors interest in Indias green economy continues, with the country having an installed renewable energy capacity of 167GW, with the countrys electricity demand growth from the current levels of per capita electricity consumption of around 1255 kilowatt-hour (kWh).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday sought investments in Indias green economy.

He said the countrys solar, wind and biogas potential for the private sector is no less than any gold mine or oil field".

According to the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), Indias apex power sector planning body, the share of non-fossil fuel generation will grow from 42% of the installed capacity in October last year to 64% by 2029-30.

In her budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized Indias energy transition trajectory and allocated 35,000 crore for capital investments towards energy transition and energy security.

She also announced viability gap funding for 4,000MWh (megawatt hour) Battery Energy Storage Systems.
New Delhi: A Pune court last week ordered US automaker General Motors and its 1,100-member workers union to mediate in their ongoing dispute about voluntary separation. However, while union officials said it may result in a stalemate if GM doesnt revise the separation package, the company said it has offered an average pay-out equalling 3.5 years of salary after taxes to retrenched employees in the middle of 2021.

General Motors Employees Union wants the management to abide by its promise of offering the best voluntary separation scheme (VSS) to affected employees in India, and has refused to accept the 2021 offer. However, if the company substantially revises the offer, the union will discuss it with its members to form a consensus, said Sandeep Bhegade, president of General Motors Employees Union.

GM has been trying to reach the union to work out the terms of separation, even as it continues to scout for buyers for its 300-acre factory at Talegaon near Pune in Maharashtra, a GM spokesperson said. The union has said it will protest against any sale without a labour transfer agreement.

Members of the union believe the company is exploring a deal with a South Korean carmaker to buy the factory. Neither GM nor the South Korean carmaker have confirmed whether such a development has taken place.

We went into this mediation really focused on showing up with good intent to reaching out (to the Union). We are also heartened that an independent mediator is overseeing these discussions, so they can look at positions at each side and form a view. How bona fide our position is in terms of the separation package is well proven", George Svigoss, executive director, corporate affairs, GM, said adding, We have sought constructive discussion over this package for over two years. We are in mediation not because we havent put forward a package - we wanted an outcome all along the way. Weve also made very clear from the start that any sale of the site does not include transfer of employees".We continue to explore options for sale. We think (the factory) is state-of-the start and has strong supply chain and transport linkages around it. We cant respond to discussions around potentially interested parties, but we are continuing to explore our options," said Svigos.

The employees union and GM are locked in multiple lawsuits in industrial courts in Maharashtra, as well as in the Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court. According to the union, the decision to go into a mediation was taken by GM alone.

Mint had earlier reported that potential suitors such as Mahindra & Mahindra and Tata Motors are unlikely to take over the plant if GM Indias more than 1,000-strong unionized workers become a non-negotiable part of the deal.

Mahindra has recently announced plans to set up a 10,000 crore greenfield EV manufacturing unit in Pune, instead of buying into the GM facility.

The union and management have been locked in a legal battle for more than two years, as the former has demanded employment with the new owners of the plant, and full wages in the interim.

The union has termed their retrenchment illegal, even as GM has previously argued it had held extensive negotiations with the union to arrive at a consensus.GM stopped vehicle production at the Talegaon plant in 2020.

The company has already sold its Halol factory in Gujarat to MG Motor India, a unit of Chinas SAIC Motor.
New Delhi: Greenko Energy Holdings on Friday announced repayment of $935 million of global bonds. Mint had earlier reported that Greenko Energy Holdings has prepaid $500 million of global bonds, scheduled for repayment in August 2023, using its cash flow to reduce the overall leverage of the group.

The bonds were sold by Greenkos subsidiary, Greenko Investment Company. Earlier this week, Greenko repaid $435 million of corporate bonds issued by its subsidiary Greenko Mauritius by taking a fresh loan of $425 million.

Greenko continues to maintain its focus on operational leverage as it builds its portfolio of long duration energy storage assets with a capacity of 50 GWh.

Greenko has Indias largest operational clean energy portfolio of 7.3 gigawatts (GW) and has invested $7.5 billion.

It is building a 50-gigawatt hour (GWh) of storage capacity on pumped storage technology (PSP) as part of its plan to set up an energy storage cloud platform of 100 GWh. National Investment and Infrastructure Funds (NIIF) Ayana Renewable Power Pvt. Ltd has partnered with Greenko Group to store 6-GWh of power in hydro pump storage plants that Greenko is building at Pinnapuram in Andhra Pradesh.

According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, Indias January electricity demand grew by 18% to 184GW from a year earlier. India recorded an all-time high electricity demand of 211.6GW in June and is expected to reach 225GW during the coming summer.

Greenko is active in the green hydrogen space and plans to supply emission-free fuel to Germanys biggest gas trader Uniper. The green ammonia will be supplied from a 1 million tonne per annum (mtpa) production facility in Kakinada that is being set up by Greenko ZeroC Pvt. Ltd.

The company recently partnered with Singaporean conglomerate Keppel Corp. to jointly explore setting up a 250,000 tonne green ammonia production facility.

Greenko Group and Belgiums John Cockerill are setting up a 2GW electrolyzer factory in India, one of the worlds largest, through their joint venture, which will require an investment of $500 million.
Mahindra Logistics on Monday announced that the company's chief financial officer and key managerial personnel Yogesh Patel has resigned.

We hereby inform you that Mr. Yogesh Patel, Chief Financial Officer and Key Managerial Personnel of the Company has tendered his resignation from the services of the Company to pursue his professional interests outside the Mahindra group," said Mahindra Logistics in its filing.

The company said that it has accepted the resignation of Yogesh Patel on 27 February 2023 and he will be relieved of his duties on 10 March 2023.

The Company has today viz. Monday, 27 February 2023 accepted his resignation and Mr. Yogesh Patel will be relieved of his duties with effect from close of business hours of Friday, 10 March 2023," the filing added.

Mahindra Logistics said it is in the process of appointing a new chief financial officer and the same will be communicated to the stock exchanges in due course.

Mahindra Logistics Ltd (MLL) reported its profit after tax at 1 crore for the quarter ended December 2022. The company's Profit After Tax (PAT) was 12 crore without the impact of its Rivigo acquisition, according to a statement.

In September 2021, it had announced the acquisition of the B2B express business of Rivigo. The deal was completed in November 2022.

However, the revenue grew a 17 per cent at 1,330 crore during the quarter under review from 1,136 in the year-ago period, the company said.

FY22 figures have been restated post acquisition of Meru companies in the first quarter of FY23, it noted.

The company's scrip ended 0.68 per cent down at 373.80 on BSE.
Meghalaya is all set to decide its political fate in the Assembly polls today i.e. on 26 February. Polling will be held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies in the state. The voting will begin at 7 am and continue till 4 pm.

Of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Meghalaya, 36 constituencies fall in Khasi, Jaintia Hills region while 24 are in Garo Hills region. The state will vote in 59 of the 60 assembly seats where more than 21.6 lakh voters will seal the fate of 369 candidates. Polling for the Sohiong Assembly constituency has been postponed following the demise of the state's former Home Minister and United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate HDR Lyngdoh who died of cardiac arrest on 20 February.

Also Read: Meghalaya assembly election: See key issues, candidates and constituencies here

The NPP, which has been leading the ruling alliance for the last five years, is fighting alone against former ally BJP, opposition TMC, and other regional parties such as the United Democratic Party and People's Democratic Front. The Congress and the BJP are contesting in 59 seats, while the NPP has put up nominees in 56 constituencies, the TMC in 57 and the UDP in 46.

Chief Electoral Officer F R Kharkongor said preparations for conducting a free, fair and peaceful election have been completed.

Also Read: Will Nagaland script history and elect its 1st women MLA this year since 1963?

As many as 640 polling booths have been categorised as 'vulnerable' and 323 as 'critical'. Thirty-six of the 369 candidates are women. The highest of 10 women nominees have been put up by the Congress.

The Voice of the People's Party, contesting in 18 assembly constituencies in the Khasi Jaintia Hills region, has attracted large crowds in its rallies and hopes to win several seats.

Also Read: Nagaland polls: From Neiphiu Rio to Temjen Imna Along; see key players, constituencies here

"Over 19,000 polling personnel and 119 companies of CAPFs have been deployed in polling stations. They have been backed by state police personnel to maintain law and order," the CEO said. The international border with Bangladesh has also been sealed.

Key players in Meghalaya Assembly election:

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is contesting from South Tura constituency. BJP fielded Bernard N Marak against the NPP chief. In Dadenggre, Congress candidate Chesterfield Sangma is contesting against NPP's James Sangma.

Former CM Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats Tikrikilla and Songsak on Trinamool's ticket.

UDP leader Metbah Lyngdoh is contesting from Mairang. Further, NPP pitted Prestone Tynsong from Pynursla. UDP candidate Titosstar Well Chyne is contesting from Sohra.

TMC fielded Charles Pyngrope from Nongthymmai. BJP fielded Sanbor Shullai in South Shillong and Ernest Mawrie in West Shillong. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh is NPP's candidate from East Shillong.

In Pynthorumkhrah, BJP fielded Alexander Laloo Hek. UDP leader Lahkmen Rymbui is contesting from Amlarem. In Sutnga Saipung, Congress fielded Vincent H Pala. UDP candidate Kyrmen Shylla is contesting from Khliehriat The LoP's brother and his brother's wife are also in the fray.

The northeastern state saw high-pitched electioneering, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other politicians addressing rallies.

(With inputs from agencies)
NEW DELHI : Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth more than 2,700 crore in Belagavi, Karnataka. He released the 13th installment amounting to about Rs. 16,000 crores under PM-KISAN.

The prime minister dedicated the redeveloped Belagavi Railway Station building to the nation. He also laid the foundation stone of six multi-village scheme projects under Jal Jeevan Mission.

Addressing the gathering, the prime minister said that the incomparable love and blessings of the people of Belagavi inspire the government to work for the welfare of the people and become a source of strength.

Coming to Belgavi is no less than a pilgrimage," PM Modi said as he highlighted that it is the land of Queen Chennamma of Chittoor and revolutionary Krantiveer Sangolli Rayanna who are remembered even today for raising their voice against the colonial rule.

The prime minister highlighted the contributions of Belagavi and said that it finds a place in the fight for today and the reemergence of India. Drawing an analogy to the startup culture of Karnataka, he said that Belagavi was home to startups hundred years ago and gave the example of Baburao Pusalkar who established a unit which turned Belagavi into a base for various industries.

PM Modi emphasized that the double-engine government wants to further strengthen this role of Belagavi in the present decade.

Throwing light on the projects whose foundation stones are laid and those that are inaugurated today, the prime minister said that it will bring in new energy and pace in the development of Belagavi.

He congratulated the citizens of this region for projects worth hundreds of crores associated with connectivity and water facilities. Through Belagavi, the prime minister said that every farmer in the nation has received a special gift where another tranche of funds from PM-KISAN was released.

Just by the click of a button, 16,000 crore rupees have been transferred to the bank accounts of crores of farmers in the country," he remarked. He said that such a huge amount transferred without the involvement of a middleman has also drawn the attention of people from across the world.

Drawing comparisons to the Congress regime, PM Modi recalled that the then Prime Minister said that only 15 paise reaches the poor when 1 rupee is transferred. But this is Modi ki Sarkar," he interjected, Every penny belongs to you and it is for you."

The prime minister also wished a very prosperous Holi to all the farmers of India and said that they have received a special gift before Holi.

PM Modi said that todays changing India is accomplishing development projects one after the other while giving priority to the deprived and mentioned that small farmers are a priority for the current government.

He informed that till now 2.5 lakh crore rupees have been deposited in the accounts of the small farmers via PM KISAN Samman Nidhi out of which more than 50 thousand crores were deposited in the accounts of women farmers. This money, the prime minister said, is taking care of the small but critical needs of the farmers.

He reiterated that the agricultural budget of the country which was 25,000 crores before 2014 has now been increased to 1,25,000 crores which is a five-time increase. He said that it is proof of the BJP governments commitment to supporting the farmers of the country.

PM Modi emphasized the use of technology which is directly benefiting the farmers and gave the example of Jan Dhan bank accounts, mobile connections and Aadhar. He underlined that the government is connecting farmers to Kisan Credit Cards with the objective that the farmers can avail of the support of banks at any required step.

He emphasized that this years Budget addresses the future needs of agriculture along with the current concerns. He said todays need is for storage and reducing the costs in farming, organizing small farmers. That is why this Budget emphasizes storage facilities and focuses on cooperatives. Similarly, focusing on natural farming will reduce the costs for the farmer. He said measures like the PM PRANAM scheme will further reduce the expenses on fertilizers.

The Government is focussed on strengthening the agricultural sector of India while analyzing the challenges of the future," PM Modi remarked.

Highlighting the challenge of climate change, the prime minister stressed reviving the traditional strength of coarse grains or millets and informed that these food grains have the capability to withstand any climate. Referring to this years budget, he highlighted that coarse grains have a new found identity as Shri Anna.

He added that Karnataka has been the main center of millets where Shri Anna was popularly known as Shri Dhanya and different kinds of Shri Anna are cultivated by the farmers of the region.

PM Modi recalled the significant campaign run by the then BS Yeddyurappa government to promote Shri Anna and said that we now have to present it to the world. Listing out the benefits of Shri Anna, he said that it requires less effort as well as less water while it doubles the benefits for farmers.

The prime minister spoke at length about the needs of sugarcane farmers as Karnataka is a major sugarcane state. He mentioned this years Budget provision providing rebate on tax on cooperative sugarcane payment of the amount payable before 2016-17 which will give relief to the sugar cooperative to the tune of 10 thousand crores.

Speaking about the governments push for ethanol blending, PM Modi informed that the production of ethanol is helping in increasing the income of sugarcane farmers. He informed that ethanol blending in petrol has increased from 1.5 percent to 10 percent in the last 9 years and the government is already targeting 20 percent ethanol blending in petrol.

The prime minister remarked that agriculture, industry, tourism and education are strengthened only with better connectivity. He informed that in the five years prior to 2014, the total budget of the Railways in Karnataka was 4,000 crore whereas this year, 7,500 crore rupees have been allocated for the railways in Karnataka. He noted that work is underway in Karnataka on railway projects worth about 45 thousand crore rupees today.

He also referred to the newly inaugurated modern railway station in Belagavi and said that it is not just the facilities that get a boost but the faith in the railways is also increasing. Many stations in Karnataka are being brought to the fore in such a modern avatar," he said.

PM Modi mentioned that the doubling of the Londa-Ghatprabha line will make the journey faster and safer. Noting that Belagavi is an important hub for education, tourism and healthcare, he said that the improved railway connectivity will give a boost to these sectors.

The double-engine government is a guarantee for fast-paced development," the prime minister said. Giving the example of Jal Jeevan Mission, he informed that only 25 percent of households in Karnatakas villages had piped water connections before 2019 whereas the coverage has expanded to 60 percent today.

In Belagavi too, PM Modi said that less than 2 lakh houses used to get tap water but this number has crossed 4.5 lakhs today. He said that 60,000 crore rupees have been allocated in this budget for this.

The government is engaged in empowering every small section of the society which was neglected by the previous governments," he remarked.

Noting that Belagavi has been a city of artisans and handicrafts men famous as Venugram i.e. bamboo village, PM Modi recalled how previous governments had banned the harvesting of bamboo for a long time but it is the present government that reformed the law and opened the way for bamboo cultivation and trade.

He also touched upon the PM Vishwakarma Yojana that was introduced for the first time in this years budget to support artisans and handicrafts men.

Concluding the address, the prime minister said, True development takes place when work is carried out with true intentions."

He highlighted the true intentions of the double-engine government and its commitment to development. To speed up the development of Karnataka and the country, we have to move ahead with Sabka Prayas," he concluded.
NEW DELHI : The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has offered the usage of 5G test bed free of cost to the Start-ups and MSMEs recognised by the Government of India up to January 2024, the Ministry of Communications said in a statement.

Prior to this, the indigenous 5G test bed was available free of cost to government-recognised startups and MSMEs up till January 2023.

All 5G stakeholders i.e. industry, academia, service providers, R&D institutions, govt. bodies, equipment manufacturers etc. can utilise this facility at a very nominal rate," the Ministry of Communication said.

This is being announced in order to encourage usage of the Test Bed and give a fillip to the development of indigenous technologies/ products in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Several start-ups and companies are already using the Test Bed for testing their products and services," it added.

In March 2018, keeping in view Indias specific requirements and to take lead in 5G deployment, the DoT approved a financial grant for the multi-institute collaborative project to set up an Indigenous 5G test bed in India with a total cost of 224 crore.

The eight collaborating institutes in the project were IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, IISc Bangalore, Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering and Research (SAMEER) and Centre of Excellence in Wireless Technology (CEWiT).

The Indigenous 5G test bed was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 17 May 2022.

The development of this Indigenous test bed is a key milestone step for India becoming self-reliant in the 5G technology domain and now leading towards 5G Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

The 5G test bed is available at five locations: Integrated test bed at CEWiT/ IIT Madras and other test beds are at IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad, IIT Kanpur and IISc Bangalore. CEWiT/ IIT Madras offers end-to-end test bed with various testing services for RAN Level, PHY Level, andf others, and other test equipment. IIT Hyderabad has facilities for gNB Testing, UE Testing, end-to-end interoperability testing and NB-IoT testing, while IISC Bangalore hosts the V2X and 5G open-source test bed, IIT Kanpur hosts the base-band test bed and IIT Delhi hosts the NB-IoT and VLC test bed.
Buy or sell stocks for today: On account of weak global sentiments on renewed US inflation concern, Dalal Street ended lower for fourth straight session on Friday last week. 50-stock Nifty index went off 45 points and closed at 17,465 whereas BSE Sensex finished 141 points lower at 59,463 levels. Bank Nifty index lost 92 points and closed at 39,909 mark. However, broad markets outperformed key benchmark indices as small-cap index corrected 0.15 per cent while mid-cap index went down 0.17 per cent during the week off session.

Intraday trading strategy for Monday

On outlook for Nifty today, Vaishali Parekh, Vice President  Technical Research at Prabhudas Lilladher said, "Nifty continue to trade lower for the 6th consecutive sessions breaching below the 17,500 zone with sentiment and bias getting weaker. The index, as said earlier, has got the next major support zone near the significant 200DMA level of 17,350 which is also where the previous crucial bottom was made on the Budget day and thereafter has the 17,100 level of the falling trendline support zone."

Prabhudas Lilladher expert went on to add that Bank Nifty is also indicating weakness and has breached below the 40,000 zone with most of the frontline banking stocks showing weak bias and further slide anticipated. Similarly, as said earlier, the index has got the next major support zone near 39500 levels and thereafter 39200 of the significant 200 DMA levels.

"The support for the day is seen at 17,300 while the resistance is seen at 17,600 levels. Bank Nifty would have the daily range of 39,300 to 40,400 levels," Parekh added.

Stocks to buy today

On stocks to buy today, Vaishali Parekh of Prabhudas Lilladher recommended three intraday stocks for today and those three day trading stocks are Hindustan Oil Exploration, Shriram Finance and GNFC (Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals).

Here we list out full details in regard to those intraday stocks:

1] Hindustan Oil Exploration: Buy at 141, target 150, stop loss 137;

2] Shriram Finance: Buy at 1218, target 1260, stop loss 1200; and

3] GNFC: Buy at 551, target 574, stop loss 543.

Disclaimer: The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, and not of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
Here is the list of the top 10 stocks that will be in focus today:

Adani Green: Despite the turmoil in Adani Group, S&P Global has affirmed its rating on Adani Green Energy at 'BB+' with a stable outlook. Also, the American credit rating agency has removed the company from under-criteria observation. S&P expects the company's restricted group to help meet repayment obligations due to its strong reserving mechanism. Adani Green's restricted group 2 includes three entities namely Wardha Solar (Maharashtra), Kodangal Solar Park, and Adani Renewable Energy (RJ).

Vodafone Idea: Debt-ridden telecom operator Vodafone Idea's shareholders have approved the preferential issuance of up to 1,600 crore of optionally convertible debentures to vendor American Tower Corp (ATC), according to a regulatory filing. The special resolution to this effect was cleared at an Extra-ordinary General Meeting (EGM) of Vodafone Idea on Saturday. According to the voting results, overall 99.99 per cent of the votes were in favour of the resolution, which pertained to the issue of optionally convertible debentures of up to 1,600 crore to American Tower Corp.

Adani Ports: Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel informed the State Assembly that the Gautam Adani group has sought 94,000 square metres of 'gauchar' (grazing land) and non-arable land from the state government in order to build a township and special economic zone. While responding to a query raised by Aam Aadmi Party's Jamjodhpur MLA Hemant Ahir, CM Patel, who handles the revenue portfolio, said the group had sought 93,900 square metres of land in Khodiyar village in Ahmedabad and Dantali village in Gandhinagar.

Edelweiss Financial Services: Edelweiss Financial Services on Friday received the shareholders approval for the proposed demerger of its wealth management business. This paves the way for the listing of Nuvama Wealth Management Limited (NWML). Earlier, the business was known as Edelweiss Wealth Management. Under the demerger plan, NWML will allot 1,05,28,746 equity shares having a face value of 10 each to the shareholders of Edelweiss Financial on a proportionate basis as consideration for the demerger.

One 97 Communications: Ant Group Co. is considering selling some of its shares in the operator of Indian financial technology firm Paytm to keep its holding within a required threshold, according to people familiar with the matter. The Chinese fintech giant has been discussing options to reduce its stake in One 97 Communications Ltd. after its share percentage increased passively due to share buybacks, the people said, requesting not to be identified because the matter is private.

InterGlobe Aviation: More than 50 planes of IndiGo and Go First are on the ground due to Pratt & Whitney engine woes amid persisting supply chain headwinds, forcing airlines to explore wet leasing of aircraft and other options to minimise disruptions, according to officials. The country's largest airline IndiGo is looking at various options, including slowing down redeliveries through lease extensions, exploring the re-induction of aircraft into the fleet, and evaluating the wet lease options within the regulatory guidelines.

Piramal Enterprises: With an aim to consider raising money up to 600 crore by issuing secured, rated, listed, redeemable, and non-convertible debentures, the Piramal Enterprises' administrative board of directors will hold a meeting on 1 March, the firm said in a stock filing report on 24 February. According to the company statement, during the meeting, the board will decide whether to consider and approve NCDs up to 100 crores along with an option to retain oversubscription up to 500 crores, the total size aggregating up to 600 crores, on a private placement basis.

ABB India: Electrification and automation company ABB India on Friday announced to invest 1,000 crore in the country in the next five years for capacity expansion, said a top company official. The company, which inaugurated a new facility in Nashik on Friday, will be investing the money in adding capacity across the country, said country head and managing director Sanjeev Sharma. He said that ABB India is planning to invest 1,000 crore in the next five years for capacity expansion.

Indian Energy Exchange: Indian Energy Exchange is set to launch the High Price Day Ahead Market segment by mid-March. This will facilitate electricity-generating firms to sell power at a price as high as 50 per unit. Earlier this month, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) allowed three categories of power generators to participate in the HP-DAM market which was gas-based generating stations using imported RLNG and naphtha, thermal plants using only imported coal, and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) -- on the petition of IEX.

NTPC: State-owned power utility major NTPC Ltd has paid an interim dividend of 4,121.08 crore to its shareholders for the financial year 2022-23. The dividend paid is 42.50% of the paid-up equity share capital of the company, it said in a statement on Friday. NTPC Ltd has paid an interim dividend of 4,121.08 crore today for the financial year 2022-23. This is the 30th consecutive year that NTPC Ltd has paid a dividend," it said.
The portfolio management services (PMS) industry, which caters to the investment needs of high net-worth individuals (HNIs), in India grew by about 14.5% last year, compared to a mere 5.7% growth witnessed by mutual funds (MFs) in the same period. The assets under management (AUM) of both PMS and the MFs stood at 26.9 trillion and 39.9 trillion, respectively, as of December.

However, the growth in the PMS industry that mandates a minimum investment of 50 lakh comes against the backdrop of its poor return performance compared to MFs, considered a mass product for retail investors (see graphic). This analysis is based on data from PMS Bazaar, a portal providing information about PMS funds in India.

There are about 400 asset management companies (AMCs), each offering numerous PMS strategies in the market today.

Over a 5-year period, only 30% of small-cap PMS funds could outperform the average return delivered by MFs in the same category. That is, only three out of 10 small-cap PMS funds delivered a 5-year return higher than 11.5% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), which is the average category return of small-cap MFs. Similarly, only 36% of large-cap PMS funds and 44% of multi/flexi-cap PMS funds outperformed the average return delivered by corresponding categories in the MF space over the said period.

View Full Image money

Does this mean investing in MFs has a higher probability of earning better returns? After all, MFs are highly regulated with a tax-efficient structure and low minimum investment limit compared to PMS funds.

The answer depends on the intent of individuals investing in PMS and their ability to pick the right portfolio manager, according to experts.

The data points to a huge divergence in returns between the best and the worst performers in the PMS space. For example, in the small-cap category, the PMS funds that were ranked the best and the worst based on the 5-year return (CAGR) delivered 16.7% and -5.6%, respectively, as of January.

Methodology

Note that the category average returns considered for the analysis are the simple average of the returns of all funds in the category. For assessing multi/flexi-cap PMS funds, flexi-cap MFs are considered because of its market-agnostic nature of picking stocks for the portfolio.

The PMS returns are the time-weighted rate of return (TWRR), which excludes the impact of intermittent cash flows from subscriptions and redemptions on returns for each strategy. MFs returns are based on point-to-point returns of the pooled fund over a period of time.

Further, the classification of PMS funds across large, mid and small is based on the information shared by the PMS managers. There is no definition currently in the PMS industry that segregates funds based on market-cap allocation," said R. Pallavarajan, founder of PMS Bazaar.

The data is based on 150 AMCs disclosing details with PMS Bazaar. These 150 AMCs represent almost 63% of the industrys AUM," he added.

View Full Image ...

Breakdown of performance

The lacklustre performance of the PMS industry in the long run of 5 years (see graphic) compared to MFs could be on the back ofconcentrated portfolios leading to higher volatility, according to industry veterans who do not want to be quoted.

PMSes generally hold a portfolio of 25-30 stocks, while MFs typically maintain a diversified portfolio of 40 or more stocks.

The increase in the number of managers in the small-cap and multi-cap PMS space in the last few years could have created a wider dispersion of performance, said Debashish Bose, founder and portfolio manager, OAKS AMCs ABC Portfolio.

Talking about the underperformance by large-cap PMS funds, Munish Randev, founder and chief executive of CERVIN Family Office, said I am not surprised. When most MF managers cant beat the benchmark, the chances of PMS funds beating the benchmark are even less because it is not easy to beat the index by having only 15-25 stocks in a concentrated portfolio. Having said that, there are outliers in this space too, which have generated decent returns in the long run."

In the case of mid-cap PMS funds, almost 60% of them outperformed the MF category average.

Randev said, mid-cap strategy works in a concentrated portfolio. MFs also beat the benchmark index, but their performance gets completely washed away because of over-diversification. The outperformance of PMS funds should be 90% and not just 60%. Most quality mid-cap oriented PMS managers beat the index more often than just 60%."

The same principle is not applicable for small-cap PMS funds, though, because of the higher risk that these stocks carry. In the small-cap strategy, you do require a diversified strategy to average out the volatility. If its a concentrated bet, it is extremely high risk as the returns of the portfolio depend on just a few stocks and that makes the portfolio very volatile due to smaller traded volumes," added Randev.

Most PMS strategies in the industry are segregated under multi-cap category because of limited restrictions on the selection of stocks.

While PMS multi-cap category is compared to the flexi-cap category under MFs, the portfolio of the former is tilted towards mid-cap stocks while the latter is focused on large-cap stocks, according to Randev.

Take note

HNIs consider investing in PMS funds because of the customized portfolios that it offers and also because of the opportunity it provides to invest in specialized investment themes or models that are readily not available in public.

The way to look at PMS is how it compliments ones overall portfolio. A differentiated portfolio which gives a different flavour, as compared to MFs, serves the investor well," said Rushabh Sheth, co-founder and co-CIO of Karma Capital.

Further, when selecting a PMS manager, return is an important parameter but not the only parameter.

Investors must be aware that a PMS has a very high active share, has a concentrated portfolio, and the performance is based on the managers conviction. I think the most important thing to check is the long-term track record of the manager. And that track record must be measured across market cycles," said Jiten Doshi, co-founder and chief investment officer at Enam AMC.

Industry experts and wealth managers suggest that investors take the help of advisers to assess a managers style and how a strategy fits in the overall portfolio.

Santosh Joseph, founder and managing partner at Germinate Investor Services, said, the weightage on the fund manager in generating returns is far higher in PMS space than in the MF industry, where most AMCs are institutionalized. It is important to understand the managers conviction, style of investing, and how his/her product fits the investors portfolio before investing."

Investors should take advice from an adviser who is not biased. I want to highlight this because there are many advisers who are given huge brokerages, commissions. etc. So, one has to be a bit careful," said Randev.
A significant revision of trade regulations in Northern Ireland was reached between the United Kingdom and the European Union on Monday which is intended to mend the severely strained relations between the two parties since Brexit.

According to both sides, the deal was accepted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

After more than a year of tense negotiations surrounding the "Northern Ireland Protocol", which has caused unease in the province after a significant peace agreement that concluded three decades of armed conflict, Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen met.

Agreed in 2020 as part of Britain's EU divorce, the pact kept the province in the European single market for physical goods and subject to different customs rules than the rest of the UK, angering pro-UK unionists there and eurosceptics in London.

The UK government had previously warned that it would unilaterally revise the protocol if the EU did not agree to complete alterations, that had caused breaks in the diplomatic relations. The warnig had also raised the possibility of a broader trade conflict. However, that scenario now seems to be diminishing.

"I'm looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend," Von der Leyen said as she left Brussels ahead of the talks.

While in Windsor, the EU leader was scheduled to have a meeting with King Charles III, which has led to accusations in the UK that Rishi Sunak was attempting to create the impression that the expected agreement had the backing of the royal family.

It is likely to face opposition from Brexiteers, including Sunak's potentially rebellious predecessor Boris Johnson, and from lawmakers representing the pro-British unionist community in Northern Ireland.

Sunak's spokesman insisted the monarch's meeting with von der Leyen was decided by Buckingham Palace.

(With agency inputs)
Exit polls indicate that the BJP will make a triumphant return to power in Tripura and Nagaland. A tight contest is expected in Meghalaya with the Conrad Sangma-led NPP likely to emerge as the single largest party. Votes for the recently held Assembly elections in Tripura, Nagaland and Meghalaya will be counted on March 2.

Nagaland

The BJP is contesting on 20 seats while the NDPP contests 40 seats under a seat-sharing agreement. The Congress has fielded candidates from 23 seats while the NPP has contenders for 22. While the parties contested separately, the Congress had previously indicated its willingness to enter into a post-poll alliance.

According to the Zee News-Matrize exit poll the BJP and its ally Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party will win 35 to 43 of the 60 Assembly seats. It also predicted that the Congress will secure one to three seats while the Naga People's Front secures two to five seats.

The India Today-Axis My India exit poll has forecast 38 to 48 seats for the BJP-NDPP alliance. The poll suggested that the NPF would secure three to eight seats while the Congress bagged one or two seats.

The Jan ki Baat poll indicated that the BJP and NDPP would secure 35 to 45 seats while the NPF bagged six to 10 seats. Meanwhile the Times Now-ETG Research poll suggested slightly better odds for the BJP and its allies with 39 to 49 seats. It predicted that the NPF would secure four to eight seats. Both these exit polls have forecast that the Congress will fail to open its account in the state.

Tripura

Tripura voted for the 60-member assembly on February 16 with a three-pronged contest between the BJP and its allies, the Congress and the newly formed Tipra Motha. All exit polls have indicated that the Congress will garner zero seats in the Tripura Assembly. On an average, the Tipra Motha is predicted to gain around 12 seats.

The India Today exit poll predicted that the BJP would win between 36 and 45 seats in Tripura. It forecast six to 11 seats for the Left.

Zee News-Matrize meanwhile opined that the would secure 29 to 36 seats while the Left Front bagged 13 to 21 seats.

The Times Now ETG Research poll suggested that the BJP and its allies would bag 21 to 27 seats while the Left secured 18 to 24 seats. The Jan Ki Baat polls predicted a slighly better performance for the BJP, contending that it would secure 29 to 40 seats while the Left got 9 t0 16 seats.

Meghalaya

Meghalaya is likely to see a stiff contest with many of the exit polls predicting that the Conrad Sangma-led NPP will emerge the single largest party.

According to the Times Now-ETG Research exit poll his party will secure 18 to 26 seats while the Trinamool Congress becomes the largest opposition party with eight to 14 seats. The Congress is projected to win two to five seats while the BJP secures three to six seats.

Meanwhile the India Today - Axis My India poll predicted that the NPP would bag 18 to 24 seats while the BJP secured four to eight seats and the TMC gained five to nine seats.

The Jan Ki Baat poll predicted a significantly better performance for the Mamata Banerjee-led party, predicting that it would obtain nine to 14 seats. It forecast that the NPP would secure 11 to 16 seats while the BJP bagged three to seven seats.

The Zee News - Matrize poll suggests that the NPP would command a clear majority with 21 to 26 seats while the TMC secured eight to 13 seats and the BJP came in third with six to 11 seats.
New Delhi: Central government authorities in Bihar have drafted state police and district administrations in a crackdown on lending and borrowing operations by Nidhi companies which do not comply with reporting requirements under the Companies Act, two persons informed about the development said.

The drive to check the abuse of the Nidhi companies a type of non-banking finance companies that facilitate borrowing and lending among its own members comes in the context of complaints about entities that have allegedly duped investors, said one of the two persons quoted above.

The office of the Registrar of Companies (ROC) in Bihar has issued an advisory to state police and district administrations giving a district-wise breakup of Nidhi Companies that have failed to make the required disclosures to the RoC. The advisory covers around 550 entities, the second person said.

The advisory issued by Mohit Kumar, assistant registrar of companies, said these companies may be illegally lending and collecting money from the public by making them members of the company.

Nidhis or Mutual Benefit Societies have a large network in eastern India, especially Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Nidhis generally operate in small areas and cater to the needs of people from the middle and lower middle classes who are its members and often known to each other.

After incorporation under the Companies Act, these entities are required to declare themselves as Nidhis or Mutual Benefit Companies/Societies by filing specified forms to the RoC, following which they can engage in the business of lending, borrowing and accepting deposits. Engaging in these operations without making the relevant disclosures is a breach of the Act. The advisory issued by the Bihar Assistant RoC urged the police and district administration to take action against illegal entities under laws such as the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act, 2019, said the second person quoted above. The advisory also suggested that a public awareness campaign on illegal operation of Nidhi companies be conducted. It also urged district administrations and district police authorities to share any complaints they receive on such illegal companies with the RoC office so that action can also be taken under the Companies Act against their directors if found guilty.

An e-mail sent to the spokesperson for the ministry of corporate affairs on Friday seeking comments for the story remained unanswered at the time of publishing.

One major head ache for the authorities is that some of the Nidhi companies use the term Bank in their names which wrongly implies that they are commercial banks. The purpose of Nidhi companies is to cultivate the habit of thrift and savings among its members and to facilitate financial intermediation solely among its members. In FY22, 272 prosecutions were initiated against Nidhi companies for violations of the Companies Act.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government's efforts of harnessing UP's tourism potential have not only led to an increased influx of domestic and foreign tourists but also will generate ample employment opportunities in tourist destinations, the statement said.

In 2022, Uttar Pradesh witnessed the arrival of 24.87 crore tourists to the state, of which the number of foreigners was 4.10 lakh. Owing to the sustained efforts of CM Adityanath, the tourism and hospitality sectors also garnered immense attention from the investors in the Global Investors Summit held recently in the state capital.

A grand temple of Maryada Purushottam Shriram will also be built by January 2024 in Ayodhya, resulting in a boost to tourism in the state. In the first six months of 2022, more than two crore tourists visited Ayodhya, the statement read.

The tourism and hospitality centres of Uttar Pradesh have received investment proposals of 98193 crores and 20722 crores, respectively. In the coming years, about 1.45 lakh employment opportunities will be created from both sectors.

Further, the statement said that the under-construction Vishwanath Dham Corridor and Vindhya Dham helped some cities including Agra, Mathura, Chitrakoot, and Jhansi to develop their tourism potential.

The construction work of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya and Vindhya Dham in Vindhyachal is also going on at a fast pace. The heavy inflow of foreign and domestic investments in these sectors will also ensure the youth get employment opportunities in their hometowns.

The UP government received 397 proposals in the tourism sector including in the top 20 sectors. There is a possibility of investment of 98,193 crore through this. This will provide more than 2.60 lakh jobs, while 437 proposals were received in the hospitality sector. With this, about one lakh youth in Paschimanchal, Purvanchal, Madhyanchal and Bundelkhand will get employment, the statement added.

The state government further highlighted the contribution of Japan in the making of hotels in 30 cities of Uttar Pradesh.

"The representatives of Japan in GIS also praised the changed atmosphere of UP. Investors signed MoU for the investment of 7,200 crores. At the summit, the Japanese company Hotel Management International Company Limited (HMI Group) decided to open hotels in 30 cities including Agra, Ayodhya, and Varanasi."

(With ANI inputs)
This project has been initiated to promote coastal tourism in the state.

While speaking at a function 'Seven Wonders of Karnataka' hosted under the Department of Tourism, CM Bommai said that the history of the greatest dynasties such as Ganga, Kadamba, Rashtrakoota, Chalukya, and Hoysala will be collected from the Department of Archaeology and develop the historic tourism. This will not only in the development of tourism but also help people understand the rich history of Karnataka.

"To promote coastal tourism in Karnataka, the country's first Marina will be constructed at Byndoor in the Udupi district. After seeking permission from the Government of India for the relaxation of Coastal Regulation Zone rules, it is proposed to take up beach tourism in coastal areas and pilgrim tourism," said Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.

According to the CM, the government proposed to build a corridor of ancient temples like Madhukeshwara in Banavasi and Dattatreya in Ganagapura and promote 'Yatra tourism'. Instructions are given to develop the Benakal area.

The development of the Anjanadri Betta is on. A scheme has been chalked out to pay a monthly honorarium of 5000 to the recognized tourist guides and even more, facilities will be provided to them from the government side.

CM Bommai also promised to extend all the cooperation to the Seven Wonders of Karnataka program to give a new direction to tourism. If the Suvarna News Channel, as part of searching the hidden Seven wonders, shared information about 5,000 places that they have discovered, the government will take steps to develop tourism in those places. The news channel must hold such programs every year and the government will support such ventures. Every village has historic relics that need to be researched.

During the occasion, he said that creation is amazing but the vision of man is much bigger. The creation starts with five elements and there is a wonder in big boulders, hills, hillocks, and seabed. None can imagine the sculpturing of the statue of Bahubali in Shravanabelagola. The architecture of Gol Gumbaz in Vijayapura and the Whispering Gallery shows the concept of wireless during those days. "We must enjoy nature's beauty must it must be protected. I congratulate Suvarnanews and Kannada Prabhua for finding out the seven wonders of Karnataka," he said.

"Travelling is man's natural habit and this has paved way for development. Karnataka is blessed with nature's bounty. It has a 350 km coastal area, 10 different weather zones, 400 km of the Western Ghats, a rich bio-diversity where the sunrays will be there for 300 days, and several rivers. Nature is on their side but they cannot go against it. For this reason, the green budget had been prepared. The damage caused to nature must be corrected immediately," The chief minister added.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Government employees have warned that they will go for indefinite strike if their demand of implementing the recommendations of the Seventh Pay Commission is not fulfilled. The aggrieved employees have noted that they will go on indefinite strike from 1 March if their demands are not fulfilled. This strike warning comes at a time, when the Basavaraj Bommai government is holding on to every good thread ahead of the state assembly elections. Union President, CS Shadakshari, said that if the demand is not met, all the government employees will stage protests across the state and will also abstain from performing their official duties.

(With inputs from ANI)
Meghalaya is all set to decide its political fate in the Assembly polls that are to be held tomorrow i.e. on 26 February. Polling will be held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies in the state. The voting will begin at 7 am and continue till 4 pm.

Polling for the Sohiong Assembly constituency was postponed following the demise of the state's former Home Minister and United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate from the seat HDR Lyngdoh. He died of cardiac arrest on 20 February.

Meghalaya in numbers:

Of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Meghalaya, 36 constituencies fall in Khasi, Jaintia Hills region while 24 are in Garo Hills region.

There are over 21 lakh voters (21,75,236) in the state of which 10.99 lakh are women while 10.68 lakh are male. The state has highest number in women voters. This year, there are about 81,000 first-time voters in the state. As many as 369 candidates are in the fray of which 36 are women.

There are a total 3,419 polling stations, 120 will be all women-managed polling stations, 60 are model polling stations and another 60 will be PWD polling stations.

The current term of the 60-seat Meghalaya Legislative Assembly will conclude on March 15. The majority mark to form government in the state is 31.

Security and Prohibition in Meghalaya:

The Election Commission has deployed 119 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Meghalaya. A total of 53 observers  20 general observers, 21 expenditure observers and 12 police observers - are on the job to ensure that the elections are free, fair and peaceful, the CEO said. As per Chief Electoral Officer of Meghalaya FR Kharkongor, 640 polling stations are identified as 'vulnerable' while 323 are 'critical' and 84 are identified as both. ECI has banned exit polls in Meghalaya from 7 am on Friday to 7 pm on February 27, the day of polling. The ECI also issued an advisory saying that mobile phones cannot be taken inside voting compartments of polling booths across the state.

To ensure free and fair assembly elections in Meghalaya, ECI ordered sealing of the Indo-Bangladesh border in the state till 2 March. The poll panel has also ordered the sealing of the inter-state border with Assam till 2 March. Meghalaya shares a 443 km border with Bangladesh and 885 km with Assam. The district magistrate of East Khasi Hills district issued an order that movement of individuals will remain strictly prohibited within a one km radius of the India-Bangladesh border of East Khasi Hills district between February 24 and March 2.

Previous poll result:

In the 2018 Assembly polls, the ruling National People's Party (NPP) got 19 seats, Congress bagged 21 seats and the BJP managed to win two seats. The United Democratic Party (UDP) grabbed six seats. Though Congress emerged as the single largest party, the government was formed by the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) with support from UDP, BJP and other regional parties. However, this time, the BJP and NPP have not stitched any prepoll alliance and are going solo. BJP and Congress have fielded candidates in all the seats. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), which became the main opposition party in Meghalaya in 2021 following the defection of 12 Congress MLAs, became a formidable force, especially after former chief minister Mukul Sangma joined its ranks. The TMC has fielded candidates in 58 seats.

Key players in Meghalaya:

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is contesting from South Tura constituency. BJP fielded Bernard N Marak against the NPP chief. In Dadenggre, Congress candidate Chesterfield Sangma is contesting against NPP's James Sangma.

Former CM Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats Tikrikilla and Songsak on Trinamool's ticket.

UDP leader Metbah Lyngdoh is contesting from Mairang. Further, NPP pitted Prestone Tynsong from Pynursla. UDP candidate Titosstar Well Chyne is contesting from Sohra.

TMC fielded Charles Pyngrope from Nongthymmai. BJP fielded Sanbor Shullai in South Shillong and Ernest Mawrie in West Shillong. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh is NPP's candidate from East Shillong.

In Pynthorumkhrah, BJP fielded Alexander Laloo Hek. UDP leader Lahkmen Rymbui is contesting from Amlarem. In Sutnga Saipung, Congress fielded Vincent H Pala. UDP candidate Kyrmen Shylla is contesting from Khliehriat.

Key constituency in Meghalaya:

South Tura Constituency: The first on the list is South Tura where the battle is between Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and BJP's Bernard N Marak. The Congress has fielded Brenzield Ch Marak in this seat.

West Shillong: The BJP's state leader Ernest Mawrie, one of the party's most recognisable figures in the state, is running in West Shillong. Mohendro Rapsang is the candidate of the ruling NPP and is pitted against TMC's Iwan Maria.

Sutnga Saipung: The seat becomes significant as the Congress' state chief Vincent Pala is contesting for the first time from the Sutnga Saipung constituency. Pala's performance in the elections could have a significant impact on the political landscape of Meghalaya. Currently serving as the Member of Parliament from Shillong, he will be competing against the incumbent Sutnga Saipung MLA Shitlang Pale of UDP and NPP candidate Santa Mary Shylla and BJP's Krison Langstang.

Songsak and Tikrikilla constituency: These two constituencies have become prominent as the former chief minister and current Leader of the Opposition in Meghalaya, Mukul Sangma, is contesting these two seats on a TMC ticket. In the 2018 elections, Sangma won from both the Ampati and Songsak constituencies as a Congress candidate. However, he quit the Congress and joined the Trinamool Congress in 2021. In Songsak, Sangma will be facing competition from NPP's Nihim D Shira, INC's Champion R Sangma and BJP's Thomas N Marak. In Tikrikilla, he will be competing against NPP's MLA Jimmy D Sangma, Congress' Dr Kapin Ch Boro, BJP's Rahinath Barchung Rabha, and UDP's Julius T Sangma.

Key issues in Meghalaya:

The ruling NPP, which is seeking to return to power, might have to contend with the anti-incumbency factor this time. The lack of Infrastructure development in remote and hilly regions remains one of the core poll issues this time. Further, allegations of corruption are also haunting the NPP government.

Another factor that might have a bearing on the outcome of this year's polls is illegal coal mining in Jaintia and Khasi Hills. When it comes to key poll issues, unemployment is a pet grouse and demand of the youth. All the parties promised jobs and the creation of election opportunities in their manifesto. NPP attacked the BJP with the long-pending issue of demanding an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Meghalaya.

What is an Inner Line Permit? It is an official travel document issued by a state government to allow inward travel of a national into a protected area for a limited time. Another important in the Meghalaya polls is the Christian and Non-Christian, especially in the Khasi Hills region.

Meghalaya BJP chief Ernest Mawrie on Friday said if BJP comes to power in the poll-bound state, they would not impose any restrictions on the people consuming beef. Ernest Mawrie told ANI that Meghalaya is a Christian-majority state and if BJP comes to power, it would provide more security to the Christians.

This year, from NPP to BJP and Congress to Trinamool, parties have showcased all might when it comes to campaigning right from poll promises or attacking contending forces with slogans. The BJP showed its strength, with PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, party president JP Nadda and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma holding rallies. PM Modi also held a roadshow in Shillong on Friday. Rahul Gandhi, who was missing from the campaign scene in Tripura, held a rally in Shillong. Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee held public meetings in Meghalaya. TMC MP Mahua Moitra also canvassed for party candidates in the state.

(With inputs from ANI)
Top Egyptian diplomat to visit Syria

Cairo, Feb 27 (UNI) Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry will fly to Syria on Monday for what will be his first visit to the country in more than a decade, according to his office.

Shoukry will visit both Syria and Turkey in a show of solidarity with the nations ravaged by a devastating earthquake on February 6, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said.

An informed Syrian source told Sputnik that Shoukry would be welcomed to Damascus by his Syrian counterpart and would likely meet with President Bashar Assad.
The Supreme Court on Monday rejected a petition filed by a leader of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party asking for a national renaming commission" to restore the original" names of historical, cultural and religious places renamed" by foreign invaders". The charge this carries in the context of Indias religiously polarized politics was not lost on the apex court, which chose to make general remarks on the countrys majority faith. Hinduism is not a religion but a way of life," the court stated, Hinduism is a way of life, and there is no bigotry in Hinduism. Dont dig up the past, which will only create disharmony. Cant have the country on the boil." These comments reach beyond the proximate issue under examination. Although the ruling can be critiqued for overreach, the judiciary is an institution looked upon to keep any deviations from our Constitutional framework in check. This is not the first time it has made observations on Hinduism, and its true that responsible governance requires special neutrality on matters that can worsen social polarization. While names of places may be emotive to some, theyre clearly not a substantive matter. Its best to let them be.
Delhi High Court has dismissed petitions challenging the Agnipath scheme for the recruitment of Agniveers in the armed forces. The decision was made on February 27 by a Division bench that was led by Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and included Justice Subramonium Prasad.

Following the hearing of arguments on behalf of various petitioners and the Central government on December 15, 2022, the bench decided to reserve the judgement. In keeping the order on hold, the court also requested that the parties submit any written arguments they may have.

Aishwarya Bhati, the Additional Solicitor General (ASG), represented the Central Government at the hearing and told the judge that more than 10 lakh applicants had received the benefit of age relaxation. The Agnipath plan represents a significant paradigm shift in the selection of defence personnel.

Also Read: Agnipath Scheme: Govt tweaks rules, here's what has changed

According to information provided by the Central Government before the Delhi High Court, none of the applicants who took part in the prior hiring process was treated under prejudice.

Recruitment into the military forces, as per the Central Government, is a key sovereign function directly related to safeguarding national security and does not have the same standing as employment in public offices.

Also Read: No income tax for Agniveers, FM makes key announcement in the Budget

In order to effectively and efficiently protect the security and integrity of the country, the Central Government is therefore legally empowered to amend the policy defining the mode and methods/service conditions of the persons who are to be employed in the armed forces.

So, the Central government's decision to conduct recruiting under the new "Agnipath" scheme represents a policy choice made for the sake of national security, it was further informed.

In support of one of the petitions contesting the scheme, attorney Prashant Bhushan earlier contended that the government's decision was arbitrary and unfair. The choice was made for no discernible reason. Additionally, he claimed that the individuals whose names were on the select list were forced to wait another 2.5 years.
PW (PhysicsWallah), one of the leading edtech platforms in India, has signed a long-term agreement to establish a joint venture with Utkarsh Classes, which has its headquarters in Jodhpur. The organisations hope to give education that adds value across all examinations through this collaboration, and they also hope to jointly enter new exam categories.

PhysicsWallah Founder and CEO Alakh Pandey, said, Both PW and Utkarsh Classes are an emotion for students. The founding teams have a solid vision of providing result-oriented quality education to every student in the country at an affordable fee. Utkarsh Classes Founder Nirmal Gehlot sir has an extensive experience of over 20 years in the field. Our collaboration will help us better serve students across India and make their learning experience more enriching."

Talking about the joint venture, Founder and CEO of Utkarsh Classes Dr. Nirmal Gehlot, said, The founders of both the companies come from a very humble background. Alakh sir and I started our journey as teachers and hence, have academics at our core. We both understand the challenges faced by students in their preparation journey. I truly believe that our Student First policy will enable this partnership to solve bigger problems in the education sector."

Also, this collaborative venture will make it easier for PW to provide study materials to Utkarsh Classes, and it will produce co-branded educational products. To enhance students' learning outcomes, the two firms will also jointly offer academic training and course offerings in a wide range of fields. As part of this collaboration, Utkarsh Classes will continue to take the lead in growing the government test preparation sector and open offline centres in 32 cities across India where PW has already established its offline centres, also known as Vidyapeeths, that help students prepare for the JEE and NEET.

In these cities, Utkarsh Courses will introduce courses focusing on state government employment that are both offline and online. PW will enhance its footprint by opening additional Vidyapeeths, which are now present in 32 locations, and will keep scaling up in the categories for all-India competitive examinations. Furthermore, PW and Utkarsh Courses will jointly introduce a new category called "Utkarsh Private Jobs" to aid in preparing students for their placements in the private sector.

Physics Wallah Co-Founder Prateek Maheshwari said, Employees of PW and Utkarsh Classes will work together to make this partnership a resounding success. We were looking for a partner that shared a similar vision and strong fundamentals. Ive known Nirmal sir since 2018. Since then, we have admired each others work and saw tremendous potential in this partnership. Sharing the best academic practices between both companies will add significant value."

Utkarsh Courses, which has been providing offline education for more than 20 years, will enable PW improve its offline operations and develop a strong hybrid learning model. In the last two years, Utkarsh Courses has expanded into a variety of test categories, including defence, NEET-JEE, CLAT, CUET, and online tuition for students in classes 6 to 12. Its primary focus is on providing offline and online learning courses for government examinations. The organisation maintains many offline tutoring institutes in Rajasthans Jodhpur, and Jaipur, and has lately forayed into Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj with the opening of offline centres. To maximise the technological developments for Utkarsh Classes, PW will use its technology team of more than 300 engineers. PW will also help enhance the company's method for delivering study materials.

These companies run several YouTube channels for various exam categories and have a strong online presence. Both PhysicsWallah and Utkarsh Classes have more than 9.7 million followers each on their respective primary YouTube channels. Also, each company's app serves more than 1 crore students.
About eight crore eligible farmers will now get the 13th installment of Prime Minister Modi's flagship PM-KISAN programme, worth Rs. 16,800 crore, effective on Monday. Prior to Holi and rabi harvesting, the national government announced that the payment will be released for direct transfer into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. The 11th and 12th instalments of the PM-KISAN plan were issued in May and October 2022. Each eligible beneficiary receives 6,000 yearly in three equal instalments of 2,000 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Program.

Hon'ble Prime Minister will release the 13th instalment of the PM KISAN scheme on 27th Feb. 2023 at 03:00 PM," stated PM Kisan portal. Though the event was conducted today, farmers and transfer of benefits to farmers under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme through direct bank transfer has been commenced today by Honble PM. The event was held today in conjunction with the Indian Railways and the Jal Jeevan Mission, and took place at Belagavi, Karnataka. The Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar and the Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Manoj Ahuja handled the event jointly.

More than 11 crore farmer families, mostly the small and marginal, have received more than 2.25 lakh crores in assistance till date according to a release published by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Interestingly, multiple installments totalling Rs. 1.75 lakh crores were given out during the Covid shutdown to help these struggling farmers. Almost three crore female beneficiaries of the scheme have received approximately Rs. 53,600 crores in financing as a result.

Mr Pankaj K Dwivedi, Head of Business Development & Partnerships, nurture.farm said "Farmers play a significant role in our economy, and the Indian government should be applauded for taking this initiative. Many Indian farmers will benefit from Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN). This scheme is crucial in allowing agriculture to contribute to the country's economic growth and help farmers deal with issues like market volatility, climate change, and growing input costs. Under the scheme, the government will offer financial benefits worth 16,800 crore to over eight crore eligible farmers. The economic benefit is 6,000 annually in three equal instalments of 2,000 every four months. The government will be directly transferring the funds into the beneficiaries' bank accounts. The registration process is simple, and minimal paperwork is needed, making it very accessible. Initiatives like these help farmers become financially resilient. We sincerely appreciate this action and hope that more financial assistance for farmers will follow. "

Mr. Amit SInha, Founder, Unnati Agri said The PM-KISAN scheme is a commendable initiative by the Indian government to support and uplift the farming community of the country. The release of the 13th installment of Rs. 16,800 crore by Prime Minister Modi on Monday reaffirms the government's commitment towards the welfare of farmers. This scheme has not only provided financial assistance to millions of farmers across the nation, but has also brought about a sense of security and stability in their lives. Due to this farmers are able to spend on quality inputs for their farms and improve their productivity. It is heartening to see the government take proactive measures to address the concerns of the farming community and ensure their well-being."

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2019. Subject to certain restrictions, the scheme attempts to offer financial assistance to all landholder farmer families with cultivable land across the nation. According to IFPRI, PM-KISAN funds are helping recipients meet their agricultural needs and other expenses like education, medical care and marriage, said theMinistry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
No-frills domestic airline SpiceJet on Monday said its board at its meet on Febraury 27, 2023 has approved to transfer its cargo business to its subsidiary SpiceXpress & Logistics (SXPL) for 2556 crore and further approved to raise 2,500 crore in fresh capital through Qualified Institutions Placement (QIP).

The airline will also convert its dues to aircraft lessor Carlyle Aviation into shares (debt-equity swap) worth $29.5 million. SpiceJet shares rose more than 5% to 42 apiece on the BSE in afternoon deals after the fundraise update.

The Board of Directors of the Company has proposed to seek enabling approval of members of the Company (which will be valid for 365 days from the date of passing of the resolution) for raising fresh capital of up to 2,500 Crore through issue of eligible securities to qualified institutional buyers, in accordance with the relevant provisions of applicable law and subject to receipt of applicable regulatory approvals, as may be required," SpiceJet informed in an exchange filing today.

For the transfer of the cargo business, the low-cost carrier said "Cargo business shall be exclusively undertaken by SXPL effective April 1, 2023 or such other date as may be finalized. The consideration for said transfer of cargo business undertaking shall be discharged by SXPL by issuance of securities in the combination of equity shares and Compulsorily Convertible Debentures (CCDs) to the Company for an aggregate amount of 2,555.77 crore.

SpiceJet said that this restructuring will substantially reduce the existing liabilities of the company and will help in fund raising for the business operations.

As a part of a proposed restructuring with aircraft lessor Carlyle Aviation Partners, the board has approved issue equity shares on preferential basis to these aircraft lessors consequent upon conversion of their existing lease liabilities equivalent to an amount not exceeding $29.5 million at price of 48 per equity share or such price as may be determined in accordance with extant preferential issue guidelines, whichever is higher.

The airline on Friday reported a multi-fold rise in net profit to 107 crore in the three months ended December 2022. The meeting to consider fundraising options was originally scheduled to be on February 24, but was shifted to be on February 27.
BJP leader Vivek claimed that Telangana Chief Minister KCR's daughter, K Kavitha, who is a member of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party, will also be arrested soon by the CBI in connection with the liquor scam. Vivek further alleged that Kavitha had given 150 crores to the Aam Aadmi Party during the Punjab and Gujarat elections.

"There is a possibility of some more arrests in the liquor scam. Kavitha will also be arrested soon," BJP leader Vivek said.

The claims come after the Enforcement Directorate named Kavitha in the chargesheet for holding a 65% stake in a liquor company in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case.

Vivek accused the KCR-led BRS government of corruption, stating that the ruling party would "lose its existence in Telangana state". He alleged that the party had no funds when it started, but now had more deposits than all other political parties in the country. Vivek questioned the source of this money, claiming that KCR had not fulfilled any of the promises made during the elections.

Accusing the KCR-led BRS government of corruption, Vivek said that the ruling party will "lose its existence in Telangana state".

Vivek said, "Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party had no funds when it was started".

"Now the party has more deposits than all the political parties in the country, "Vivek alleged.

BJP leader questioned where did this money come from? "KCR has not fulfilled one promise he had made during the elections".

This come after Delhi Deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia was arrested by CBI after eight-hour-long questioning.

The arrest of Sisodia has been controversial, with Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal claiming that it was "dirty politics" and that Sisodia was innocent. Kejriwal stated that there was a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Sisodia and that the public would respond to this, boosting their spirits and making their struggle stronger.
Gurugram-based Aakriti Walia was laid off by Google India 10 minutes before she was supposed to attend a meeting. Now, she doesnt have the argument to convince her 6-year-old daughter why she is not going to work.

As Aakriti Walia celebrated her five-year Googleversary just a few days ago, little did she know it would be her last celebration at the company. Unfortunately, Aakriti has been impacted by the recently-announced Google layoffs. The "access denied" message on her system left her numb as she was preparing for her meeting just 10 minutes away. Aakriti's initial reaction was of denial, then "why me" and the news finally sunk in a few days later.

Working at Google was a dream-come-true for Aakriti. Every day spent at the company was better than she had ever imagined. As she updated her LinkedIn profile and resume, she realised how much this organisation added to her life not just personally but also professionally. Aakriti traversed the most valuable part of her career in the last five years at Google - building skills and experience across a diverse set of roles, working with some of the most amazing Googlers".

Also Read: Twitter layoff again: Sales team suffers from Elon Musks aggressive strategy

As I plan the road ahead from here, the next hardest thing for me right now is - how do I make my 6 years old daughter understand why mumma's not going to work. Well that will take its own sweet time" she wrote.

Two options exist for people to assist her as she looks for help for new prospects. Every Google coworker who has worked with her is welcome to recommend her on LinkedIn. Moreover, if anyone is aware of any positions that fit her qualifications, they can introduce her to those openings.

Also Read: Google joins layoff trend in 2022, to let go 10,000 low performing employees

If you are a fellow Googler impacted by the layoffs and need someone to chat with, I am here!" she wrote while thanking Google for all that you were and will always be to me!"

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sounak Mukhopadhyay Sounak Mukhopadhyay, who also goes by the name Sounak Mukherjee, has been producing digital news since 2012. He's worked for the International Business Times, The Inquisitr, and Moneycontrol in the past. He's also contributed to Free Press Journal and TheRichest with feature articles. He covers news for a wide range of subjects including business, finance, economy, politics and social media. Before working with digital news publications, he worked as a freelance content writer. Read more from this author
An ally of Russia's President Vladimir Putin on Monday said that the continued arms supply to Kyiv risks a global nuclear catastrophe, reiterating his threat of nuclear war over Ukraine . The remarks were published in the daily Izvestia.

Dmitry Medvedev, the former Russia President's apocalyptic rhetoric has been seen as an attempt to deter the US-led NATO military alliance and Kyiv's Western allies from getting even more involved in the year-old war that has dealt Moscow setbacks on the battlefield, according to Reuters.

The latest comments by Medvedev, who serves as deputy chairman of Putin's powerful security council, follow Putin's nuclear warning last week and his Sunday remarks casting Moscow's confrontation with the West as an existential battle for the survival of Russia and the Russian people.

Of course, the pumping in of weapons can continue .... and prevent any possibility of reviving negotiations. Our enemies are doing just that, not wanting to understand that their goals will certainly lead to a total fiasco. Loss for everyone. A collapse. Apocalypse. Where you forget for centuries about your former life, until the rubble ceases to emit radiation," Medvedev said in the remarks.

Putin has earlier said that the people of Ukraine have become the hostage of the Kyiv regime and its Western overlords, who have effectively occupied this country in the political, military, and economic sense.

He accused Ukraines leaders of taking the countrys population hostage", adding Kyiv is serving the interests of foreign powers".

The remarks came on US President Joe Biden's surprise visit to Ukraine, the country since war broke out nearly a year ago. As air raid sirens blared across the Ukrainian capital, Biden met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and announced an additional half billion dollars in US assistance.

(With Reuters inputs)
New Delhi: A number of countries are interested in training with and studying the National Disaster Response Forces (NDRFs) model said the director general of the force, Atul Karwal. As Indias economic clout grows and climate change increases the likelihood of natural disasters, the countrys unique experience in disaster relief efforts and standing relief forces give it a unique skill-set, which has also proven a handy diplomatic tool. According to Karwal, relief efforts in Turkey drove home that India needs to set benchmark response times to international disasters, acquire advanced rescue technology and ease logistical barriers to providing disaster relief in international settings. Karwal also revealed that India will also look to acquire international certifications that allow it to coordinate with other international rescue teams. Excerpts from an interview.

In the recent past, India has extended disaster relief support to countries ranging from Japan in the East to Turkey and Syria in West Asia. How do you see the evolution of Indias ability to respond to calamities in far-flung geographies?

After disasters like the 1999 Odisha super cyclone, the 2001 Bhuj Earthquakes and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, India took it on very strongly to prepare ourselves better for handling these crises. In 2005, the National Disaster Management Act was promulgated and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). I think the NDRF may have the unique distinction of being the only standalone, around-the-year, dedicated disaster response force in the world. A lot of developed nations have volunteers on board rather than a regular force like us.

The NDRF has matured over a period of 15 years in terms of our ability to respond to different crises. For example, the scale and speed of our response in Turkey was very much appreciated. The Turkish Ambassador told me that they had aid from 80 countries, and the Indian contingent was the fourth largest. Our responders mobilised quickly and our first plane was airborne on the first night after the earthquake. Our internal benchmark is that my first vehicle will get mobilised in the first 20 minutes of me receiving information. We dont require formalities for mobilisation. A phone call or a news item will trigger my response rather than waiting for a formal request.

Weve also seen an increase in competence, not just of the NDRF, but also of the other elements which factor into a disaster response. For example, our naval ships are moving to Africa to provide relief and the Coast Guard has got pollution control devices on their ships. So all in all, we are much more competent. Looking at the growth of India and the way it is coming up in the world, it befits our status and our increased competence and stature that we reach out anywhere in the world. The old tradition of India of reaching out to anybody who needs help, without caring about how relations have been, is a great humanitarian impulse in our way of thinking.

Have other countries approached India to emulate its disaster response agencies?

I attended a Track 1.5 gathering in Seychelles and the NDRFs model was noticed by Interpol. I was then invited as the head of NDRF to Turkey, where I was required to make a presentation about NDRF to about 30 participating nations and some of them did want to train with us and understand the model of NDRF. There is a growing interest internationally in NDRF.

The NDRF has just participated in relief efforts in Turkey and Syria. What were the lessons learnt from these operations?

We have a benchmark for national deployments where we mobilise our first vehicles within 20 minutes of a disaster. We could develop a benchmark for international deployments as well. . Logistical issues also exist. During our response to the earthquakes in Turkey, our documentation like official passports took hours. During our response, we visited the other international relief teams there. We have got very interesting insights about what we need to have on board during emergencies like equipment, communication, clothing and transportation. We will work towards absorbing those lessons. Finally, we also want to improve interoperability. Under the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA), there is an INSARAG benchmark which helps provide for interoperability with other countries in disasters. We have been trying for this certification and now the government has given us the go-ahead. When our teams go out in the future, they will have credibility and will be seen as 100% professionally competent.

South Asia is among the most climate vulnerable regions in the world. Do you see India playing a leading role as a first-responder to climate-related emergencies in the neighbourhood?

Climate change is causing more disasters to happen, and the data suggests that we are one of the most disaster prone areas in the world. I feel the NDRF can get pulled into more and more situations and we need to be more competent to handle them. Thats because no country can cope with natural disasters purely on their own resources. For example, during Hurricane Katrina in the US, 140 countries came to help America. The US is a superpower but they still got help. In that context, with India acquiring more comprehensive national power and stature, we should have a role where we can competently and instantly help out in those situations. Indias participation will grow and NDRF will be the point edge of Indias response.
Nepal's second largest party in Parliament - CPN-UML - on Monday decided to withdraw its support to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda"-led government in the wake of a renewed political equation in the run-up to the presidential election, dealing a jolt to the two-month-old ruling coalition.

"A high-level meeting of the party held under the leadership of party chief K P Sharma Oli on Monday decided to quit the government and withdraw the party's support to the Prachanda-led government," Bishnu Rijal, deputy chief of the party's central publicity committee, told PTI.

The prime reason for the break-up of the alliance between Prachanda and former prime minister Oli was because the Maoist leader decided to support senior Nepali Congress (NC) candidate Ram Chandra Paudel for the President's post.

Paudel is from the Nepali Congress, an opposition party, and from outside the ruling alliance. Nepal's Presidential election will be held on March 9.

As Prime Minister Prachanda violated the December 25 agreement while forming the seven-party coalition government and betrayed the Communist Party of Nepal-(Unified Marxist-Leninist) (CPN-UML), the party took the decision to leave the government, Rijal said.

"The UML ministers, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Poudyal and Foreign Minister Bimala Rai Poudyal, are in the process of tendering resignation to the Prime Minister," he added.

There were eight UML ministers including Deputy Prime Minister in the Prachanda-led incumbent government and all of them are resigning en masse.

The exit of CPN-UML may not immediately affect the Prachanda-led government, which is supported by the Nepali Congress (NC) which has 89 lawmakers in the House.

Meanwhile, Rashtriya Swatantra Party led by former TV journalist Ravi Lamichhane has decided to continue its support to the government. The party's high-level meeting on Monday decided to back the Prachanda-led government, said Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, deputy Parliamentary Party leader of RSP.

In the 275-member House, the UML has 79 lawmakers while CPN (Maoist Center) has 32. CPN (Unified Socialist) and Rashtriya Swatantra Party have 10 and 20 members, respectively. Janamat Party has 6 members, Loktantrik Samajbadi Party 4 and Nagarik Unmukti Party 3 members in the parliament.

With the three major parties, NC (89), CPN-Maoist Centre (32) and RSP (20), the government has support of at least 141 lawmakers.

Prachanda needs only 138 votes in parliament to continue as the prime minister.

UMLs vice-chairman Bishnu Prasad Paudel claimed that Prime Minister Prachanda used pressure tactics on the UML ministers to quit the government, which forced them to withdraw support, according to My Republica newspaper.

He said Prachanda warned that if the CPN-UML does not leave the government, he would immediately dismiss the ministers or even appoint departmental ministers without them, the report said.

He alleged that Prime Minister Dahal demonstrated immaturity by stopping Foreign Minister Paudyal, who was about to visit Geneva, at the eleventh hour.

Paudyal, who is from the UML party, was scheduled to fly to Geneva to attend a high-level session of the UN Human Rights Council. However, Prime Minister Prachanda asked her to cancel the visit. This move by Prachanda riled the Oli-led party even further.

"We have taken this decision because Prime Minister Prachanda did not proceed according to the agreement of December 25 and exerted pressure on us to leave the government," Vice-chairman Paudel said.

Prachanda, the 68-year-old CPN-Maoist Centre leader, was sworn in as the Prime Minister for the third time on December 26 last year after he dramatically walked out of the pre-poll alliance led by the Nepali Congress and joined hands with opposition leader Oli.

Prime Minister Prachanda's party, which contested the November 20 parliamentary and provincial elections as a partner of the five-party alliance led by the Nepali Congress, left the alliance after it refused to give Prachanda any of the two key posts --- the president or the prime minister.

Prachanda then forged an alliance with CPN-UML led by 71-year-old Oli to form the government.

Oli has claimed that while backing Prachandas bid for prime minister last year, it was agreed upon that the post of President would go to the member of his party.

Paudel also accused Prachanda of not wanting political stability in the country as he was not ready to honour the agreement reached with the party earlier, My Republica report added.

Meanwhile, Prachanda cancelled his first foreign visit to Qatar due to some "important political engagements" at home, officials said on Monday, amidst a threat to the stability of his coalition government ahead of the presidential election.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.


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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday announced plans to simplify the process of obtaining work visas for Indian IT experts. Scholz stated that Germany needs skilled workers to meet the demand for software development in the country, and the plan is to modernize the bureaucratic process and legal requirements to make it easier for workers and their families to come to Germany. Here is a look at the changes in Germany's immigration policy

According to the German chancellor, Germany will need many skilled workers to meet the demand for software development in the country.

He said that it should be possible, initially, for people to arrive in Germany without a concrete job offer.

Relaxing language requirements would also help to make Germany a more attractive destination to sought-after professionals who might otherwise be lured to English-speaking countries.

"It is clear that anyone who comes to Germany as an IT specialist can first easily converse with all his or her colleagues in English because many in Germany can speak English," Scholz said, adding that German could be learned later, DW reported.

"A lot of reform proposals have already been collected and we are continuing to work on them," Scholz said.

During his official trip to India, Scholz visited IT firms in Bengaluru and praised India's "booming" software development sector, stating that Germany wants to benefit from the talent in India and recruit and attract workers to Germany. Scholz also mentioned that around 1800 German companies are active in India and have given thousands of jobs.

The move to ease visa restrictions is part of Germany's broader efforts to address its shortage of skilled workers. The country's aging population, combined with a declining birth rate, has created a situation where there are fewer young people entering the workforce to replace retiring workers. As a result, Germany has been actively recruiting skilled workers from abroad, and Scholz's visit to India is a reflection of this effort.

Scholz on Saturday said that India has undertaken an enormous rise and stressed that it is "very good" for the ties between the two nations. Speaking at a joint press meet along with PM Narendra Modi, Scholz noted that the development of IT and software is booming in India.

Scholz was on an official visit to India from February 25-26.
The coronavirus pandemic likely arose from a Chinese laboratory leak, the US Department of Energy now says according to media, although the White House maintained Sunday that American intelligence remained divided on the issue.

The determination -- noted in a classified report by Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines's office, The Wall Street Journal reported -- marks a shift by the Energy department, which had previously said it was undecided on how the virus emerged.

People who read the classified report were quoted in the Journal and The New York Times as saying the department made its judgment with "low confidence," highlighting how different agencies remain divided over the origins of Covid-19 and the pandemic that swept the globe in early 2020.

The conclusion, reportedly the result of new intelligence, is nevertheless significant because the department oversees a network of national laboratories, including some that do advanced biological research.

The department now joins the Federal Bureau of Investigation in believing that the pandemic, which has left nearly seven million people dead, was the result of a mishap in a Chinese laboratory.

Four US intelligence agencies believe Covid occurred through natural transmission, while two others remain undecided, the Journal reported.

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stressed a "variety of views" on the matter remain.

"Right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question," he told CNN Sunday.

In mid-February, the World Health Organization pledged to do everything possible "until we get the answer" on Covid's origins, denying a report suggesting the agency had abandoned its investigation.

The scientific community sees it as crucial to determine the origins of the pandemic in order to better fight or even prevent the next one.
The year 2023 marks the birth tercentenary of Adam Smith, the Scottish economist who has had a significant impact on the world. It seems only appropriate, given the title of this column, A Visible Hand, that I evaluate Smiths contribution and place it in todays context. It also strikes me as an imperative because while he is among the most cited in economic conversation, his works are among the least read.

Adam Smith was born in 1723 in Kirkcaldy (pronounced Kircoddy), Scotland. The young Adam grew up in a market town that was known for its fishing, salt harvesting, mining and trade. Throughout his life, Smith was a keen observer of human beings and the way they went about their economic behaviour in society. Smith was a polymath who joined Glasgow University at the age of 14 and studied under the philosopher Francis Hutcheson. His interests and ideas spanned philosophy, theology, astronomy, law, ethics and the political economy. Even though Smith is remembered for economics, what makes him relevant even today is that he deliberated upon and asked timeless questions about the human condition.

Adam Smith wrote two books, an uber famous one and the other less so. The two books are meant to be read together. Unfortunately, few have even heard of Smiths first book, let alone read it. Smiths basic psychological curiosity led him in 1759 to write The Theory of Moral Sentiments. The very first word in this book is sympathy, a word that the number of characters restricted social media world of today would not associate with Smith. In the book, Smith is concerned with the great questions of moral philosophy: Is humankind selfish or benevolent? What does a sense of propriety mean? What should be the nature of reward and punishment? What is the influence of luck? What constitutes a sense of duty? Can virtue be equated to prudence, propriety, or benevolence? If Smith had written only this book, he would have been considered in the same class as John Locke, Immanuel Kant, Jean Jacques Rosseau, Voltaire or David Hume. In fact, Hume was Smiths closest friend and intellectual sparring partner.

It was not until 1776, the year of Humes death, that Smith would publish the now famous book, An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations. And it is to the ideas in this book that we must look to for Smiths contribution to economics.

Interpreting these ideas without the full context of Smiths book on moral sentiments allowed many subsequent economists to draw non-nuanced threads that suited their individual purpose. And so it was that the University of Chicago, particularly led by George Stigler and Milton Friedman, highjacked the idea of an invisible hand and broadcast it as an ultimate defence of individualism and laissez-faire market economics.

Stiglers ideological belief in small government and free markets and Friedmans charismatic ability to market that idea led to a situation where Adam Smith became synonymous with the Chicago school characterization.

The term invisible hand appears in Smiths book only a couple of times, and even then, only in passing. For instance, In Book 4, Chapter 2, Smith says [Each individual] generally, indeed, neither intends to promote the public interest, nor knows how much he is promoting it... He intends only his own security; and by directing that industry in such a manner as its produce may be of the greatest value, he intends only his own gain, and he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote an end which was no part of his intention." A simple interpretation of this means that there are some unintended consequences, in many cases positive, of individuals acting in their own interest. Stigler and Friedman picked up on the importance of price as the mechanism by which this so-called positive externality would benefit the overall market. Smith was the first to expound on the theory of price and illustrate that in an analytically rigorous way.

Adam Smith himself would probably have been appalled by this narrow interpretation of his work. In context, Smith was against cronyism, against corporate monopoly, against imperialism (though mainly from the point of view of the imperialist), and for individual action and responsibility, for workers and for greater harmony among the rich and poor. Smith recognized that great wealth brought great power, he valued the free market as the best motivator of individual effort, but was equally clear that the responsibility of civilized society was to ensure that wealth should not be achieved at the expense of humanity. Donald Winch, an economic historian described Smith as infuriatingly balanced and mesmerizingly mundane."

Much of the commercial context, particularly the mercantilist orientation, in which Smith wrote those books does not hold today. But the timeless questions that he raised still do. For India, as for the rest of the world, Smiths strongly worded ideas against cronyism and unchecked corporate power should sound a note of caution. Smiths ideas about decentralization are still as valid today as they were back then.

Most importantly, Smiths ideas about individual responsibility and focus on markets that are fair as much as free remain paramount.

P.S: A nation is not made wealthy by the childish accumulation of shiny metals, but it is enriched by the economic prosperity of (all) its people," said Adam Smith.
As a nation, India has been making waves in the world of womens rights, especially in recent years. A Centre for Global Development study found that Indias policies have helped empower women and reduce gender inequality. India is fast moving from the paradigm of womens development to women-led development. Womens economic empowerment remains at the heart of Indias G20 agenda. It has been well encapsulated in Prime Minister Narendra Modis remark at the G20 Summit in Bali that global development is not possible without womens participation."

Empowering women is not just a choice, but a necessity. Because it is about improving outcomes, investing in healthier communities and stronger economies. The principle of gender equality is enshrined within the Constitution of India, and the government has always been committed to promoting gender equality in all sectors and levels of governance. Financing for gender equality is central to mitigating gender inequalities. Gender budgeting is a critical strategy in this endeavour.

Under Indias G20 presidency, we endeavour to showcase Indias initiatives, measures and on-ground action being implemented for womens economic empowerment by both the government and private sector for replicability by G20 nations.

Over the decades, our government and civic bodies have put a lot of effort into empowering and giving equal opportunities to women in the country. There are various policies that India has made that empower women to improve their livelihoods.

The countrys Nari Shakti Scheme, which funds women entrepreneurs by providing soft loans, the Women in Engineering, Science and Technology (WEST) programme to encourage women pursuing education in STEM subjects, and the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), a unified access portal that brings together an ecosystem for women, have all contributed significantly towards enabling women in India to realize their entrepreneurial aspirations.

It would be noteworthy to mention that the Prime Ministers Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) has funded over 107,000 women entrepreneurs between 2016 and 2021. In addition, the government has mandated targeted procurement from women entrepreneurs.

Further, Indian legislation provides for reserving one-third of the seats for women in gram panchayats, panchayat samitis, zilla parishads, municipalities and municipal corporations. About 21 states have mandated 50% representation, which has helped create local-level ecosystems for uplifting women and encouraging womens participation in economic activities. There are numerous success stories of self-help groups (SHGs) across India that significantly contribute to womens development.

The position of women in corporate enterprises in the country has evolved tremendously, especially in the services sector. For example, womens representation in banking and finance services has gone to 31% of the sectors workforce. The figure is 30% in Indias media sector. In new-age service sectors such as consulting, women account for 45% of the workforce. In the IT services and IT-enabled services sector, women constitute 34-36% of the workforce.

Women entrepreneurs are not far behind. In India, women are estimated to own and run over 12 million micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) units. Women-led enterprises account for more than 20% of proprietary MSME units. Evidence supports the observation that increased internet and mobile penetration has led to a substantial scale-up in female entrepreneurship in the country. With agribusinesses included in the count, India has more women-owned enterprises than many other countries. Women are also dominating grassroots-level enterprises. For example, 80% of Khadi Village Industries 490,000 artisans are women. SHGs have become a favoured model to help women at the grassroots level through government programmes and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

There is no easy fix for gender inequality. Still, recent policy initiatives by the Indian government help illuminate key areas where change could be possible. They also serve as an inspiring reminder that through public advocacy and partnership with private corporations both in India and abroad, there are ways for us to continue moving closer to gender equality throughout the developing world.

Moving forward, we need to focus on three critical areas: women in STEM, women-led enterprises and women at the grassroots level. These will have a profound impact on all-around womens empowerment and help G20 economies reduce gender gaps and inequality, as envisaged under the UN Sustainable Development Agenda.

Under Indias G20 presidency, the G20s Empower effort will be inclusive, decisive, outcome-oriented and action-oriented. Nobody can achieve this more than the women of the world. I am confident that we will be able to take the cause forward and bridge gender gaps through a collaborative framework for womens empowerment.

Sangita Reddy is Chair, G20 Empower, joint managing director, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd., and past president of FICCI
Germany has a reputation in India more as an economic player than a significant weight in global or even regional politics. In her meeting with the visiting German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Indian President Draupudi Murmu confirmed this impression by first highlighting Germanys role as Indias largest trade partner in Europe and one of its top investors. She also referred to Germany as Indias second-largest development cooperation partner.

President Murmu then noted Germanys importance to India as a destination for Indian students and researchers, especially those of science and technology  a role that Germany has served for well over a century. It is also worth remembering in this context that Germany was the partner country in the building of IIT Madras in 1959, supplying both financial and technical assistance.

The Indian President also referenced one of Germanys longest historical connections with India  that of German Indology  though she left unstated the fact that many of the earliest Indologists had landed in India for Christian missionary work.

Finally, President Murmu spoke of the political glue of contemporary India-Germany bilateral ties, namely their shared democratic values, commitment to rules-based international order and multilateralism, and a desire to reform multilateral institutions. India and Germany, along with Brazil and Japan, have previously lobbied together for permanent seats on the UN Security Council in an unsuccessful attempt at reforming that body to reflect post-Cold War economic and political realities.

In his meeting with the German Chancellor, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Indias connections with Germany in the reverse order from President Murmu. Even so, there was clear focus on the economic side of things, with references to the business delegation that accompanied Scholz and the Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaigns.

More interestingly, and perhaps more importantly, there was a mention of the political and international strategic components of their ties.

The prime minister specifically referred to the Triangular Development Cooperation, aimed at supporting development in third-world countries. Given the shortfall in Indias technical, economic and diplomatic capacities, it makes sense for New Delhi to join forces with significant partners  as it has with Japan  for international development projects. Germany and India currently have four projects underway since May 2022 in Cameron, Malawi and Ghana in Africa, and in Peru in Latin America.

All the same, the hard security issues are what need to be addressed if India-Germany ties are to have any long-term impact. The Russian invasion of Ukraine is a shared concern, though to varying degrees. Prime Minister Modi, however, tried to acknowledge the importance to Germany of this issue by referring to it directly in his welcome remarks for Scholz.

But there is another topic that the two countries need to discuss and get on the same page on  China. There is already a fairly strong conversation on the subject underway between the foreign policy establishments of both countries. Germany, however, has been hamstrung by differences of opinion and approaches within its government.

Scholz was the first German leader to visit China after the Communist Partys (CCP) 20th Party Congress late last year. He did so with a large business delegation and, in the timing of the visit, appeared almost too eager to reach out to CCP General Secretary and Chinese President Xi Jinping at a time when both US-China and India-China relations are at a low point.

Scholzs priorities were no doubt economic ones, in addition to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Beijing has, however, so far chosen to side with Moscow for all practical purposes, thus indirectly supporting the Russian challenge to European security and order.

If the German chancellor thinks he can win the Chinese over, he clearly misunderstands Chinas intentions and the nature of its political system. For India, this German approach complicates matters. New Delhi can no longer afford to have its partners engage in half measures or stay neutral in the face of Chinese provocations.

While the Europeans might point to Indias unwillingness to side with them against the Russians, the two issues are not the same. Europe, and Germany especially, engaged deeply with Russia until the Ukraine invasion. The current disengagement costs the Europeans considerably less than India would have to pay for decoupling from Russia.

European, including German, disengagement is largely economic in nature, given the American security umbrella that they enjoy as part of NATO. India has no such luxury and unlike the Europeans is engaged in ongoing physical standoffs along parts of the disputed boundary with the Chinese.

As important as economic ties are, therefore, New Delhi will increasingly need its partners to walk the talk on shared values and commitment to international law by taking stronger positions on Chinese provocations and other issues of concern to India.
Norovirus is a virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea in humans. It is the leading cause of gastrointestinal illness worldwide and across all age groups, according to a 2022 review in the journal Viruses (opens in new tab). It is often referred to as "stomach flu" or "winter vomiting bug", however norovirus is not related to pathogens that cause influenza.

Norovirus is notorious for causing major outbreaks on cruise ships and in food outlets. However, the vast majority of infections occur in facilities where there is a high number of immunocompromised people, such as hospitals and hospices. Norovirus is not only highly contagious, but also difficult to treat, researchers noted.

Dr. Lijuan Yuan (opens in new tab), a professor of virology and immunology at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, Virginia, said that norovirus has a very high mutability rate.

"There are at least 30 different genotypes of noroviruses that can infect humans, and new strains are emerging over time," she told Live Science in an email. "Not all cases of norovirus infection are reported or diagnosed, so it's difficult to know exactly how many different strains are currently in circulation," she said.

An estimated 20 million Americans get sick with the virus each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (opens in new tab) (CDC), and it is blamed for as many as 900 deaths in the United States each year.

How norovirus spreads

Norovirus is transmitted mostly through the fecal-oral route, meaning from feces of an infected individual to the mouth of a susceptible individual. People get infected by ingesting food or drink that's been contaminated, or by touching any contaminated surface, then touching their nose, mouth or eyes. The virus is also aerosolized, or sprayed into the air, when an infected person vomits or flushes a toilet, and can spread when a person inhales the aerosolized virus, according to the CDC.

Norovirus is a very stable pathogen. It can survive for long periods of time on surfaces and in water, even in extremely harsh environments, Yuan said. "In addition, there is a lack of long-term immunity after norovirus infection," she said.

(Image credit: andresr via Getty Images)

The mechanism of norovirus infection is not fully understood, according to a 2012 review published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases (opens in new tab). Norovirus is a relatively simple pathogen  each viral particle carries just nine protein-coding genes. To put this in perspective, humans have about 20,000. However, norovirus can easily bypass the human immune system and instruct gut cells to replicate the viral particles. Within a day, it "rewires" the intestinal lining to dump on their fluids and release the newly-replicated viral load into the environment.

Human norovirus binds to human cells via several specific receptors, such as histo-blood group antigens (HBGA), according to a 2019 review published in the journal Viruses (opens in new tab). Studies have identified the presence of HBGA-like substances in many different food surfaces, including palps of shellfish and cell walls, leaves, and veins of lettuce. This could explain why norovirus outbreaks are often food-related, the review researchers noted.

In addition to humans, norovirus can infect a broad range of hosts including livestock, pets, and wild animals like marine mammals and bats. Norovirus may not be restricted to one host and might be able to jump the species barrier, according to a 2019 review published in the journal Viruses (opens in new tab).

Symptoms of norovirus

Norovirus symptoms generally begin within a day or two of exposure. The effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and cramps. In some cases, people with norovirus suffer fever, headache, body aches and fatigue. Vomiting or having diarrhea many times a day may also lead to dehydration.

Though these symptoms can be severe, they are usually short-lived, and most people recover within three days, according to the CDC (opens in new tab). Only particularly severe cases, usually involving young children, the elderly or people with compromised immune systems, require hospitalization.

Treatment and prevention for norovirus

Currently, there are no specific treatments or vaccines for norovirus infection, Yuan said.

"Most people recover from norovirus without any specific treatment, as the illness is usually self-limiting and runs its course within a few days," she said. "Treatment is typically focused on relieving symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and preventing dehydration through oral rehydration therapy."

Despite research efforts, no antiviral medications have been approved to treat norovirus, according to a 2019 review published in the journal Medicinal Research Reviews (opens in new tab).

Some success has been achieved with human immunoglobulins given orally to treat norovirus-induced gastroenteritis in immunocompromised patients. The research team at Virginia Tech has also reported (opens in new tab) that the combination of rice bran and probiotics may strongly protect against human norovirus infection and diarrhea in a pig model. The high protective efficacy of the probiotic cocktail regimens was attributed to stimulation of immune system defenses, Yuan said.

Developing a vaccine for norovirus has proven to be a challenge for several reasons, Yuan said.

"Firstly, norovirus has many different strains, which can make it difficult to develop a vaccine that provides broad protection against all of them," she said. It is also difficult to grow norovirus in a laboratory, which has hindered the development of a live oral or inactivated vaccine, she said.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Careful handwashing and good general hygiene are one of the best ways to prevent a norovirus infection, according to the CDC (opens in new tab). Using a hand sanitizer may not be as effective. Eating only foods that have been properly handled and prepared can also help prevent the spread of norovirus. Oysters and other shellfish need to be thoroughly cooked, and the CDC advised these foods should reach an internal temperature of at least 145F before being served.

People infected with norovirus should abstain from preparing food for others for at least two days after symptoms stop, according to the CDC. They should also carefully wash any potentially contaminated laundry, as well as clean bathroom surfaces and all kitchen areas with a bleach-based solution.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to offer medical advice.
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Stephen Silvers mental capacity was significantly impaired at the time he shot dead Garda Colm Horkan with the gardas own gun, a forensic psychiatrist has told the Central Criminal Court.

Dr Brenda Wright also told the jury in the trial of Mr Silver (46), of Aughavard, Foxford, Co Mayo, that the accused recounted mental health difficulties he had experienced over the years, on one occasion believing he was fighting mohawk Indians in his bedroom.

Dr Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, gave evidence today (Monday, February 27) to defence counsel Dominic McGinn SC that she interviewed Mr Silver three times between August and September 2020.

"Having reviewed the information and having met with him and interviewed him on three occasions, my view is that at the time he was mentally unwell and as a consequence his capacity was impaired, said Dr Wright.

She said that as a consequence of his mental illness, Mr Silvers capacity was significantly impaired at the time of the shooting.

Dr Wright said that when she first met him on August 21, 2020, which was two months after the shooting of Gda Horkan, Mr Silver engaged well, was calm, and his speech was normal.

She told the jury that Mr Silver said that on one occasion in 2003, he was mentally unwell and believed he was fighting mohawk Indians in his bedroom and thought he could shapeshift.

Dr Wright said that Mr Silver was first admitted to hospital in 1998, when he was 22. She said that at that time, Mr Silver thought he was Jesus reincarnated and he would make Ireland a happy place. She said he also thought he was receiving subliminal messages from the radio. She said he was treated with antipsychotic medication and was later diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder.

Dr Wright gave evidence of Mr Silvers mental health history, which included on one occasion the accused reporting that he was hearing voices threatening to harm him. She said he described seeing the figure of the devil and was in an aggressive state.

She said that in September 2001, Mr Silver was again admitted to hospital as he was displaying very bizarre behaviour. She said he had painted his jacket white and was wearing sunglasses at night, and he barricaded himself in his room. He was prescribed a high dose of an antipsychotic and his diagnosis at that time was that he had experienced a manic episode.

Dr Wright gave further evidence that Mr Silver was again admitted to hospital in October 2003, after being referred by his GP and brought to hospital by the gardai. She said he had been non-compliant with taking his medication for a week and had been engaging in heavy drinking.

She told the court that on October 29, 2003, Mr Silver was holding a glass in his hand while threatening to kill the nurses and a member of staff was injured. Mr Silver was given an injection of an antipsychotic and received further high doses until November 3 of that year.

She gave evidence that he was an inpatient in 2003 and he had six to eight further admissions to hospital in the years after that. She said he was admitted to hospital again in 2018, but prior to that for a number of years he was not taking his medication.

When he becomes unwell, he reaches the severe end of the spectrum with psychotic symptoms, said Dr Wright.

Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Gda Horkan knowing or being reckless as to whether he was a member of An Garda Siochana acting in accordance with his duty at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on June 17, 2020. He has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and the jury have been told the main issue in the trial is Mr Silvers state of mind at the time of the shooting.

The jury also heard from civilian witness Kevin Scahill, a resident of Castlebar, Co Mayo, who gave evidence to Mr McGinn that he has known Mr Silver for 28 years. He said that they have a common interest in motorbikes and are very straight up with each other.

He confirmed to Mr McGinn that he was aware of Mr Silvers difficulties with mental health and said the accused had told him eight or nine years ago that he suffered with mental health difficulties. He said that he first noticed Mr Silver had these difficulties when the accused opened his new garage, which was around six months to a year before he was admitted to the Central Mental Hospital in the wake of Gda Horkans death.

He texted me and said he was in a bad place, a dark place. He said he wasnt alright and needed to go to the hospital. I brought him to hospital, said Mr Scahill.

"He was agitated and fidgety. He couldnt settle himself. He was twisting and turning and wasnt himself, it was like he was looking for someone coming towards him. He could never sit still, he was like a child. Id never seen that before. I knew then that he wasnt well. He was admitted to hospital and was there over a week, as far as I know, said the witness.

Mr Scahill said that when Mr Silver was discharged from hospital, he was back to himself.

He was settled, he wasnt as jumpy and was more relaxed, he said.

Mr Scahill described Mr Silver as a brilliant mechanic who was meticulous in his work.

You knew your bike was going to come back to you as good as new, he said.

The trial continues tomorrow before Ms Justice Tara Burns and the jury of seven men and five women.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: February 27 2023

According to Detectives, a woman received a phone call from a male she believed to be her grandson.

Third Squad detectives are investigating an Elderly Scam that occurred on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at 12:00 am in Westbury.

According to Detectives, a female, 82, received a phone call from a male she believed to be her grandson. The male claimed he was arrested in Pennsylvania and asked for $9,400 dollars to pay for a lawyer. The victim agreed to meet and exchanged the money with an unknown male. The subject took the money and left on foot.

A short time later, the victim was contacted by her grandson who informed her that he was not arrested.

The subject is described as a male White/ Hispanic, mid-20s with short curly black hair.

The Nassau County Police Department urges the community to be on alert and to remind vulnerable family members, friends and neighbors about potential scams or fraud.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: February 27 2023

Declaration Would Provide Federal Disaster Assistance for Local Governments in Erie, Genesee, Niagara, St. Lawrence and Suffolk Counties.

Governor Kathy Hochul has requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Biden to support the ongoing recovery of communities impacted by the devastating late-December storm, which caused historic blizzard conditions in Western New York, as well as significant coastal flooding on Long Island. If granted, this declaration would allow for federal financial assistance for communities in Western New York, the Finger Lakes, the North Country, and on Long Island to cover damages and some response operations. The Governor is also requesting direct funding to cover funeral expenses and crisis counseling for residents of Erie and Niagara Counties. This effort builds upon federal assistance already secured by Governor Hochul through a December 26 federal Emergency Declaration which supported response and rescue operations throughout the six-day event.

"I have submitted a formal request to President Biden to secure a Major Disaster Declaration to support communities across New York impacted by the devastating winter storm that hit our state in December," Governor Hochul said. "Federal assistance will support my administration's ongoing efforts to help New Yorkers continue to recover from this once in a generation storm."

A Major Disaster Declaration secures financial assistance from the federal government, primarily through FEMA's Public Assistance Program, to provide funding to local governments and eligible non-profits for debris removal, protective measures, and repairs to buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water and wastewater treatment facilities, critical infrastructure sites, schools, parks and other facilities.

Following a disaster, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' (DHSES) Disaster Recovery Unit works directly with counterparts at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and impacted local governments to assess damages caused by, and costs related to, the disaster. Once these assessments are complete, FEMA validates whether the state and impacted counties have reached the required federal damage thresholds. Following that process, the Governor then requests a Major Disaster Declaration from the President.

With the damage assessment process now complete, Governor Hochul is specifically requesting:

Public Assistance for Erie, Genesee, Niagara, St. Lawrence , and Suffolk Counties, including Snow Assistance for Erie, Genesee, Niagara and St. Lawrence Counties to reimburse localities for snow removal operations.

Additional Funeral Assistance and Crisis Counseling for the residents of Erie and Niagara Counties.

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, "This historic storm began as a statewide event with a complex forecast of snow, ice, strong winds and extreme wind chill. These conditions created a nearly two-day blizzard in the Buffalo area that became hazardous for pre-positioned emergency responders, snow plows, and utility crews to navigate. Our team was proud to work alongside all of our emergency response partners involved in the event and I look forward to continuing to work with Governor Hochul to help our communities recover."

In Western New York, there were 37 straight hours of blizzard-like conditions in Erie County, which is the longest recorded blizzard in the United States under 5,000 feet of elevation, and Niagara County experienced record-breaking snowfalls. A mix of heavy snow and high winds created zero-visibility conditions for nearly two days, conditions that were compounded by extreme cold and power outages. At the height of the storm, more than 80,000 households were without power. New York State agency personnel conducted more than 650 rescues in Western New York throughout the course of this storm and local officials rescued hundreds more. Despite the heroic efforts of New York's emergency responders, 46 residents from Erie County and 1 resident from Niagara County tragically lost their lives.

On Long Island, high winds and heavy rains from the storm brought widespread coastal flooding in Suffolk County, leaving debris damage and thousands of power outages due to damaged infrastructure. Significant tidal surge also caused coastal erosion in the area.

Prior to the winter storm, Governor Hochul declared a statewide State of Emergency on December 23. DHSES and other State Agencies were in constant communication with the National Weather Service and local governments in the week leading up to the storm. DHSES' Office of Emergency Management and Office of Fire Prevention and Control, the State Department of Transportation, Thruway Authority, State Police, Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Department of Environmental Conservation pre-deployed resources to the Western New York, Finger Lakes, and North Country regions ahead of the storm. Additional State resources were surged to heavily impacted areas, including a total of over 800 National Guard soldiers.

About the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services provides leadership, coordination and support to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate disasters and other emergencies. For more information, find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram, or visit our website.
Crime, Press Releases

By Jacob Alvear Published: February 27 2023

Settlement Marks Fourth Recent Action by AG James to Address Problems in Nursing Homes and Protect Vulnerable New Yorkers.

NEW YORK  New York Attorney General Letitia James and the United States Attorney for the Northern District of New York (USAO-NDNY) Carla Freedman today announced they have secured more than $7.1 million from the Saratoga Center for Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Care (Saratoga Center), a former nursing home in Ballston Spa, and its owners, unlicensed operator, and landlord for years of fraud and resident neglect. In 2017, following a financial dispute, Saratoga Centers landlord pressured the owners, who were the licensed operators, to relinquish control of the nursing home to the unlicensed operator, and never reported the change to the New York State Department of Health (DOH). Under the control of this unlicensed operator and his associates, conditions at Saratoga Center rapidly declined. The facility failed to provide medication to residents, lacked hot water and clean linens, and residents suffered falls, pressure sores, and other significant lapses in care.

As part of the settlements, the owners, unlicensed operator, and landlord have admitted wrongdoing, and together, will return $7.1 million to Medicaid, with $4.3 million going to New York. In addition, the owners, unlicensed operator, as well as the entities that owned the nursing homes real property, are excluded from participating in Medicaid and Medicare for at least 10 years. This action is the fourth taken in as many months by Attorney General James to protect vulnerable New Yorkers in nursing homes.

We trust nursing homes to protect New Yorkers during their most vulnerable days, but the owners, unlicensed operator, and landlord of Saratoga Center repeatedly violated the law for their own benefit, said Attorney General James. Instead of providing the quality care and compassion that residents deserved, the owners of Saratoga Center deceived regulators and left residents to suffer deplorable conditions and neglect. I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Freedman and team for their partnership in holding Saratoga Center accountable for putting New Yorkers in harms way. My office will continue to ensure nursing home residents are protected, and I encourage anyone who has witnessed alarming conditions, resident neglect, or abuse at a nursing home to contact my office.

Nursing homes should protect the health and well-being of every resident, said U.S. Attorney Freedman. That did not happen at Saratoga Center. Instead, a business dispute between the operators and landlord led to dangerous conditions for residents and staff and caused the submission of false claims to Medicaid for worthless services. This case demonstrates that we will hold responsible people accountable when they pocket federal funds while providing substandard care. Thank you to Attorney General James and her office for collaborating on this case.

Under New York law, owners of nursing homes have a special obligation to ensure the highest possible quality of life for residents, and to staff the facility at a level sufficient to provide adequate care to all residents. In addition, prospective owners of nursing homes are required to make truthful disclosures to DOH in their applications to become operators. Nursing home operators are also prohibited from delegating key duties to other individuals who have not been approved as operators by DOH.

Saratoga Center operated as a 257-bed nursing home from 2015 until it closed in 2021. The Office of the Attorney General's (OAG) investigation found that when the owners applied to DOH in 2014 to get a license to operate Saratoga Center, they and the landlord deceived DOH about their relationship, claiming it was at arms length, and that the owners were seeking private loans to fund their acquisition of the nursing home. In reality, the owners and the landlord were already in business together, and the landlord was funding the purchase of Saratoga Center. In 2017, the landlord pressured the owners to relinquish control of Saratoga Center to the unlicensed operator and other associates but did not report the change to DOH.

The conditions at Saratoga Center declined under the control of the new, unlicensed operator and associates, leading to a breakdown in the quality of care provided to residents. From when they took over in 2017 to when Saratoga Center closed in 2021, the unlicensed operator and associates mismanaged the nursing homes finances and failed to adequately staff the facility, causing residents to suffer the consequences.

Residents at Saratoga Center suffered significant medication errors. The investigation also revealed that residents experienced excessive and unnecessary falls and injuries, including the development of pressure sores that went untreated. Under the management of the unlicensed operator and associates, Saratoga Center failed to:

Maintain consistent and reliable hot water throughout the facility;

Keep a sufficient stock of clean bed linens for residents; and

Manage trash and waste removal in a timely fashion, subjecting residents to unsanitary and unhealthy conditions.

In 2018, both DOH and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) fined Saratoga Center for serious deficiencies and violations, and in 2019, CMS designated Saratoga Center a Special Focus Facility, signifying it was among the poorest performing nursing homes in the country.

The individuals and entities party to the settlements are Alan Ari Schwartz and Jeffrey Vegh, the owners and licensed operators of Saratoga Center; Saratoga Center for Care LLC, the entity through which Schwartz and Vegh owned the nursing home; Jack Jaffa, the unlicensed operator; Saratoga Care and Rehabilitation Center LLC, the entity through which Jaffa operated Saratoga Center; Leon Melohn, the landlord; and 149 Ballston Ave LLC and Ballston Two LLC, entities Melohn controls that owned the real property on which Saratoga Center was located.

Under the settlements announced today, the owners, unlicensed operator, and landlord will collectively pay $7,168,000 to Medicaid, of which $4,300,800 will go directly to New York state. The remaining $2,867,200 will be paid to the federal government. The owners, unlicensed operator, and the entities that own Saratoga Centers real property will also be excluded from Medicare, Medicaid, and all other federal health care programs for at least 10 years.

Attorney General James has been investigating nursing homes throughout New York state based on concerns of resident neglect and other unacceptable conduct, both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In January 2021, Attorney General James released a report revealing that many nursing homes were ill-equipped and ill-prepared to deal with the pandemic crisis because of poor staffing levels, which resulted in a lack of compliance with infection control protocols and increased risk to residents. In November and December 2022, Attorney General James filed special proceedings against three separate skilled nursing facilities and their owners due to findings of repeated and persistent fraud and illegality, including resident neglect, illegal conversion of government funds, and false and misleading representations to DOH. These facilities include: The Villages of Orleans Health and Rehabilitation Center in Orleans County, Fulton Commons Care Center in Nassau County, and Cold Spring Hills Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Nassau County.

Attorney General James encourages anyone with information or concerns about alarming nursing home conditions, or resident abuse or neglect, to file a confidential complaint online or call the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) hotline at (833) 249-8499.

The investigation and settlements were the result of a coordinated effort among OAG, USAO-NDNY, the Civil Division of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). Attorney General James thanks USAO-NDNY, DOJ, HHS-OIG, and DOH for their partnership and assistance.

This settlement demonstrates the Department of Justices ongoing commitment to ensuring that nursing home residents receive the quality of care to which they are entitled, said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of DOJs Civil Division. When individuals or entities put the welfare of these vulnerable residents in jeopardy, they will be held accountable.

Ensuring safety and quality of care for nursing home residents is a top priority, said Inspector General Christi A. Grimm, HHS-OIG. When nursing home owners, operators, and landlords are responsible for substandard care in their facilities, HHS OIG will not hesitate to pursue their exclusion and bar them from future participation in federal health care programs.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Moran and Civil Division Attorneys Carol Wallack and Lyle Gruby handled this matter for the United States.

The MFCU investigation was conducted by Detective Supervisor John Benshoff under the supervision of Deputy Chief, Commanding Officer William Falk, with Principal Auditor-Investigator Cheryl Abraham and Senior Auditor-Investigator Nathaniel J. Wood, both under the supervision of Regional Chief Auditor Sarah Finning, and with assistance from Medical Analyst Stephanie Keyser, R.N.

The settlements were handled for MFCU by Special Assistant Attorneys General Emily Auletta of the Albany Regional Office and Hillary Gray Chapman of the Civil Enforcement Division, under the supervision of Deputy Chief of Civil Enforcement Konrad Payne. The MFCU Albany Regional Office is led by Albany Regional Director Kathleen Boland and the Civil Enforcement Division is led by Chief Alee N. Scott. MFCU is led by Director Amy Held and Assistant Deputy Attorney General Paul J. Mahoney. MFCU is part of the Division for Criminal Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Jose Maldonado and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

New York MFCUs total funding for federal fiscal year (FY) 2023 is $65,717,936. Of that total, 75 percent, or $49,288,452, is awarded under a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $16,429,484 for FY 2023, is funded by New York state. Through MFCUs recoveries in law enforcement actions, it regularly returns more to the state than it receives in state funding.
Crime, Business & Finance

By Jacob Alvear Published: February 27 2023

Six vape shop employees from different locations have been charged for selling vape products to minors.

Six vape shop employees are facing charges for allegedly selling vape products to minors at various Long Island businesses.

After recieving numerous complaints from the community, a compliance check up was conducted on 24 buisnesses in Suffolk County, on Thursday, Feb. 23.

The employees from these locations were arrested and charged with second-degree unlawfully dealing with a child:

East Northport Smoke Shop , located at 250B Larkfield Road in East Northport

Green Leaf Smoke Shop , located at 247 Broadway in Greenlawn

Cloud Empire Smoke Shop, located at 108 Broadway in Greenlawn

Employees of these following businesses were arrested and charged with third-degree criminal sale of cannabis:

Cigar House Smoke and Vape Shop , located at 594 Walt Whitman Road in Melville

Intense Smoke, located at 532 Walt Whitman Road in Melville

Additionally a sixth employee at Nirvana Smoke Shop, located on East Jericho Turnpike in Huntington, was charged with unlawfully dealing with a child and criminal sale of cannabis.

The six employees have been issued field appearance tickets and are scheduled to attend in First District Court in Central Islip.

According to Suffolk County Police,out of the 24 businesses in Suffolk County only 18 other businessses were checked for compliance with no violations found.
Music, Movies & Entertainment

By Chris Boyle Published: February 27 2023

From March 17th to 19th at Sag Harbor Cinema.

Sag Harbor Cinema will host the New York International Children Film Festival with a specially curated program for audiences of the East End this March 17th through the 19th. The festival will include both animation and live action films, as well as a shorts program appropriate for ages 3 to 6 years old.

The weekend will follow the final Kids and Families Matinee of the winter season. Leading up to it, the signature year round Sag Harbor Cinema Saturday and Sunday series has already featured three NYICFF shorts programs.

With titles hailing from France, Japan, Norway, Mexico, Colombia, and more, the NYICFF weekend selection offers diverse stories told from a multitude of places and perspectives as well as a broad range of options from live action to the many compelling styles of animation from CGI to hand-drawn.

This years feature selection spotlights a number of genre-bending animation titles that inventively push the boundaries of documentary and true-to-life storytelling. Titina, an extraordinary new animated feature by Kasja Ness, tells the true story of Roald Amundsen and Umberto Nobiles 1926 journey to the North Pole from the point of view of Titina, the little dog that went along for the ride. Little Nicholas: Happy As Can Be brings the beloved French character Le Petit Nicolas to the screen by interspersing the famed fiction with scenes drawn from the real lives of the stories creators, Jean-Jacques Sempe and Rene Goscinny. Dounia & the Princess of Aleppo interweaves the story of a six-year-old girl with traditional Syrian lore, following her journey across Syria, the dangerous sea, and the daunting borders of Europe.

All features are paired with a short and each program is designed to celebrate the beauty and power of film, spark the inherent capacity of children and young adults to connect with exciting, nuanced art, and encourage their engagement with cinema. NYICFF is a place for the next generation of moviegoersand even movie makers.

The selection of the 2023 NYICFF festivals lineup was especially curated for the Sag Harbor Cinema by Maria-Christina Villasenor, NYICFFs Programming Director, in collaboration with SHCs Founding Artistic Director, Giulia DAgnolo Vallan.

We are very happy to host a portion of the festival, especially on their 25th anniversary. This seemed a natural evolution of our efforts to engage younger audiences and their families in the power and beauty of film. And to make sure that adults do not forget the magic and depth of childhood and childrens imagery. NYICFFs programs have always been smart, innovative and far reaching. I am thrilled we can share something of what they have been doing so well for many years with our audience, says Giulia DAgnolo Vallan.

Were thrilled to be partnering with Sag Harbor Cinema, and complementing their outstanding programming with an exciting new slate of international animated and live-action films,says Maria-Christina Villasenor. Sag Harbor Cinemas beautifully restored theaters, unparalleled projection, and warm community feel are the perfect place for families to experience how special viewing films in theaters together can be.

Tickets will be available on the cinemas website, sagharborcinema.org.

For more information on the films, see details below:

BELLE & SEBASTIAN: NEXT GENERATION

Belle et Sebastien: Nouvelle generation

FRANCEUS PREMIERE

Live Action, Pierre Core, 2022, 96 min.

French with English subtitles

City kid Sebastian, 10, is less than thrilled to spend school break with his grandmother and aunt in the countryside instead of filling his days with parkour around Paris with his friends. Though the family farm is in the stunning French Pyrenees mountains, Seb finds herding sheep utterly boring. That is, until he meets Belle, a beautifully humongous canine with a heart as gold as her voluminous locks. When Seb learns that Belle is being mistreated by her owner, hes ready to draw on his city pluck and do what it takes to protect his new friend. In the process, he just might find a way to save the family farm from greedy developers and looming climate change. Filled with gorgeous mountain scenery and modern themes, this contemporary version of Belle and Sebastian delivers on its next gen title. If, like us, youre already a member of the fervent Belle and Sebastian fanbase, you know that the real screen starlet is Belle. If not, prepare for some puppy love at first sight.

Screens with:

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM

UNITED STATES

Live action documentary, Ashley Brandon, 2021, 9 min.

English

DOUNIA & THE PRINCESS OF ALEPPO

Dounia & La Princesse D'Alep

CANADA, FRANCEUS PREMIERE

Animation, Marya Zarif & Andre Kadi, 2022, 72 min.

French with English subtitles

Bold of spirit and wild of hair, six-year-old Dounia lives joyfully with her family in Aleppo, where she spends her time traversing the bustling souks, or marketplaces, teeming with delicious ingredients just right for her grandmothers amazing dishes. Life is filled with kind neighbors, shared stories, and music until a gradually intensifying conflict brings a growing troop of soldiers to town. When the family is forced to pack up and join the global ranks searching for a safer place to call home, Dounias grandmother stuffs rosewater sweets and other fresh-baked, homestyle delights into her bulging suitcase. But all Dounia takes with her is a handful of nigella seeds, known in Syrian lore to have magical properties. Her handful of hope just might bear rewards in the form of the legendary princess of Aleppo and her guidance as the group journeys across Syria, the dangerous sea, the daunting borders of Europe, and more. Though navigating serious themes, this charming, funny, and visually dazzling tale offers an all-ages point of entry to explore timely issues and the timeless value of respect for all citizens of the world.

Screens with:

THE LUGGAGE ROOM

SPAINNEW YORK PREMIERE

Animation, Daniela Cuenca, 2021, 7 min.

Spanish with English subtitles

ERNEST AND CELESTINE: A TRIP TO GIBBERITIA

Ernest et Celestine, le Voyage en Charabie

FRANCE, LUXEMBOURGINTERNATIONAL PREMIERE

Animation, Julien Chheng & Jean-Christophe Roger, 2022, 80 min.

French with English subtitles

At long last, theyre back! Ernest and Celestine, the wacky and warm, beloved if mismatched pair of travelers who made their US debut at NYICFF 2013 return for another instant classic, again for the first time in the United States. This time around, the once-forbidden friends are on the trail to Ernests home, Gibberitia. Grumpy Ernest is not too pleased to be headed back, but its the only place where he can get his prized violin repaired after its broken (in a major oops!) by Celestine. The silver lining? Gibberitia is home to some of the worlds greatest musicians who fill their time together playing the joyful sounds that fill the streets. But disappointment looms when our ursine/rodent duo arrive to silent streets and the master luthier nowhere to be found. They soon learn that this unthinkable existence is a result of a citywide ban on all music. Together with their friends and a mysterious masked outlaw, they will use strategy, hijinks, and even some hard concessions to learn that being true to yourself might just be the sweetest music of all. Another duo returning to NYICFF? Co-directors Julien Chheng and Jean-Christophe Roger, who have worked on Fest favorites Mune (NYICFF 2015) and The Storytelling Show (NYICFF 2011), respectively.

Screens with:

PHONOS

MEXICO

Animation, Gabriela Badillo, 2021, 9 min.

No dialogue

LITTLE NICHOLAS - HAPPY AS CAN BE

Le petit Nicolas: Qu'est-ce qu'on attend pour etre heureux?

FRANCE

Animation, Amandine Fredon & Benjamin Massoubre, 2022, 85 min.

French with English subtitles

Simultaneously mixing the story of a mischievous cartoon boy and his friends with the true tale of his creators, Little Nicholas is a visual delight with wit to match. When illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempe first drew little imp Nicholas, he knew he had to get his good friend Rene Goscinny (of Asterix fame) to write the story. As the two artists bring the boy to life, Nicholas himself escapes the page to ask them about their own childhoods. Through these conversations, the friends share stories of early artistic ambition, immigrating to the United States, and family lost to World War II. More solemn moments are balanced expertly with Nicholass own adventures with his best friend Alceste (who simply loves toast!) in splashy watercolor, to deliver moments of utter joy. The first feature-length Little Nicholas film to maintain the essence of the texts original artwork, this story of the creators and their created will delight fans of the books (who might know him better as Le Petit Nicolas) and send newcomers to their local libraries to discover what theyve been missing.

Screens with:

THE SISTINE

COLOMBIANEW YORK PREMIERE

Animation, Juan Camilo Fonnegra, 2022, 8 min.

No dialogue

MOOMINVALLEY

FINLAND, UNITED KINGDOMUS PREMIERE

Animation, Sara Barbas, 2022, 22 min.

English

Moominfriends! Tove Janssons delightful universe is back, premiering exclusively at NYICFF with all the Moominventures you could ever wish for in three all new episodes. First, when Moomintroll and Sniff volunteer to walk Toffle home through the woods, Toffle tells tall tales to prolong their journey, which gets them into trouble when Groke arrives in Toffles Tall Tales. Mrs. Fillyjonk gets the feeling shes not long for this world, so Moominpappa decides to throw her a party will never forget in Mrs. Fillyjonks Last Hurrah. Finally, a mystery in Snufkin and the Fairground: When Snufkin advises silence-loving Hemulen to leave his noisy job at the fairground, hes left to run the rides on his own.

Screens with:

LA CALESITA

UNITED STATES & CANADANEW YORK PREMIERE

Animation, Augusto Schillaci, 2022, 10 min.

No dialogue

PANDA! GO PANDA!



JAPAN

Animation, Isao Takahata, 1972, 72 min.

English

Were flashing back to a Festival classic that our youngest audiences may have missed! From the legendary team that formed Studio Ghibli (with original concepts and character designs by Hayao Miyazaki) comes two deliriously delightful animated featurettes in one program! Seven-year-old Mimiko has somehow persuaded her grandmother to take off by train and leave her home alone. Shes quite capable of handling all duties of home and hearth, but gets more than she bargains for when PapaPanda and baby Panny turn up at her door. Their round bodies, wide grins, and off-kilter clowning offer the first glints of another charming neighbor to come. Infused equally with the amazing and the absurd, this seriously fun Totoro precursor is sure to win over new audiences and seasoned Ghibli fans alike. Panda, Go Panda, indeed!

Screens with:

KONIGIRI-KUN PARASOL

JAPANNEW YORK PREMIERE

Animation, Mari Miyazawa, 2021, 5 min.

No dialogue

TITINA

NORWAY, BELGIUMEAST COAST PREMIERE

Animation, Kajsa Nss, 2022, 90 min.

Norwegian with English subtitles

More or less based on true events. So begins the mostly true-to-life story of Titina, an intrepid fox terrier, and her companions on their aerial expedition to the North Pole. When Italian engineer Umberto Nobile is invited to build an airship for Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, he knows hes embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. And who better to accompany him on his dirigible to the top of the world than the trusty street pup he rescued in Rome? Just as their airship, the Norge, is poised to reach a milestone as the first to make the Polar flyover, a petty power struggle turns the journey sour. With colorful animation mixed with live action documentary footage, Titina captures all of the real, high-altitude antics that made historyall from the vantage point of one lucky dog.

Screens with:

SWING TO THE MOON

FRANCENEW YORK PREMIERE

Animation, Marie Bordessoule, Adriana Bouissie, Nadine De Boer, Elisa Drique, Chloe Lauzu, Vincent Levrero, & Solenne Moreau, 2022, 7 min.

No dialogue

SHORTS FOR TOTS

60 min.

Created for our youngest and first-ever moviegoers, but beloved by grown-ups, Shorts for Tots is sure to delight all audiences. Recommended for ages 3 on.

About the Sag Harbor Cinema

As a not-for-profit 501(c)3, community-based organization, Sag Harbor Cinema is dedicated to presenting the past, present and future of the Movies and to preserving and educating about films, filmmaking, and the film-going experience in its three state-of-the-art theaters. The Cinema engages its audiences and the community year-round through dialogue, discovery, and appreciation of the moving image  from blockbusters to student shorts and everything in between. Revitalized and reimagined through unprecedented community efforts to rebuild the iconic Main Street structure after a fire nearly destroyed it in 2016, SHC continues a long historic tradition of entertainment in the heart of Sag Harbor Village. SHC Members enjoy discounts on tickets and merchandise and have access to our member-only rooftop lounge, The Green Room.
(Alliance News) - The following is a round-up of earnings by London-listed companies, issued on Monday and not separately reported by Alliance News:

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Base Resources Ltd - Australia-based, Africa-focused mineral sands producer - Pretax profit in the six months to December 31 jumps to USD64.8 million from USD29.1 million a year prior. Revenue climbs 21% to USD126.6 million from USD104.6 million. Company cites price improvements for all products and strong markets for mineral sands. Cost of sales decrease 18% to USD48.8 million from USD59.3 million. Lowers interim dividend by 33% to 2 Australian cents per share from 3 Australian cents per share a year ago. Anticipates Western pigment producers to increase production rate "back to normal levels through the second half of financial year 2023". Further, is optimistic on China after it eased its Covid restrictions last month.

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Beeks Financial Cloud Group PLC - Glasgow-based cloud computing and connectivity provider - Pretax loss in the half-year to December 31 widens to GBP762,000 from GBP266,000 a year prior. Revenue grows 35% to GBP10.4 million from GBP7.7 million. Cost of sales widens 24% to GBP6.2 million from GBP5.0 million. Administrative expenses increase 60% to GBP4.9 million from GBP3.1 million. Depreciation increases to GBP2.1 million from GBP1.5 million, as cost of share-based payments widen to GBP1.2 million from GBP414,000. Looking ahead, Chief Executive Officer Gordon McArthur said: "Our principal focus for the second half will be to convert our substantial pipeline of opportunities across the newly launched Exchange Cloud offering. While the macro environment presents challenges to all businesses, we believe the shift of the financial services sector to cloud computing will continue at pace."

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Global Invacom Group Ltd - Singapore-based satellite communications equipment and electronics provider - Annual loss in 2022 balloons to USD12.2 million from USD28,000 in 2021. Revenue falls 12% to USD72.8 million from USD82.5 million. Cost of sales widen 10% to USD59.4 million from USD66.0 million. Notes one-off impairment of goodwill of USD5.2 million for 2022. Global Invacom explained that it was non-cash in nature and related to the performance of its US subsidiary. Company expects "considerable macroeconomic headwinds" which impacted it in 2022 to continue in 2023. Looking ahead, Global Invacom said: "In order to establish long-term growth, and as part of its operational restructuring, Global Invacom remains committed to technological innovation and development. By working in collaboration with key customers, the group is well positioned to maintain its reputation of developing best-in-class solutions for the satellite industry."

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Oncimmune Holdings PLC - Nottingham-based immuno-diagnostics developer - In the 15 months to August 31, revenue was GBP3.8 million, little changed from GBP3.7 million in the year to May 31. Pretax loss widens to GBP11.6 million from GBP6.1 million across the same time frame. Administrative expenses widen 54% to GBP8.7 million from GBP5.7 million, as cost of sales more than doubles to GBP2.0 million from GBP865,000. However, says revenue in the first six months of financial 2023 is expected to exceed GBP3.8 million, and it expects to be operating cashflow positive during the year.

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Quartix Technologies PLC - Newtown, Wales-based vehicle tracking system provider - Pretax profit in 2022 climbs 2.4% to GBP5.5 million from GBP5.4 million a year ago. Revenue grows 7.9% to GBP27.5 million from GBP25.5 million. Proposes final dividend of 6.30p, down 10% from 7.00p a year ago. Total dividend for 2022 is 7.80p, 8.2% lower than 8.50p a year prior. Looking ahead, it says: "The group has made a strong start to the year, with new installations in January ahead of the same period in 2022; however the company notes that this may not extrapolate to Q1 year on year performance due to an exceptionally higher March 2022 performance." Quartix adds that intends to continue to invest a proportion of its gross profit on sales and marketing "to further develop the profitable subscription platform it has created by accelerating growth in its fleet subscription base."

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Spectral MD Holdings Ltd - Dallas, Texas-based predictive analytics company focused on algorithms and technology that allow for fast and more accurate treatment decisions - Pretax loss in 2022 narrows 31% to USD2.8 million from USD4.1 million in 2021. Research & Development revenue jumps 66% to USD25.4 million from USD15.2 million. Cost of revenue widens 77% to USD14.5 million from USD8.2 million. Looking ahead, the company plans to complete pre-submission to the US Food & Drug Administration to achieve alignment on the burn validation study protocol, regarding its Burn artificial intelligence training study. Regarding the UK, it adds it "is evaluating an accelerated UK regulatory submission pathway for 2023." Chief Executive Officer Wensheng Fan says: "Our immediate strategy remains focused on commercialization planning activities. We are in regular communication with Biomedical Advanced Research & Development Authority to further develop our infrastructure readiness for a federal level commercial contract and look forward to building upon our strong momentum, whilst continuing to collaborate with BARDA and our clinical partners to scale and advance our transformative technology." BARDA is a US Department of Health & Human Services office.

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By Tom Budszus, Alliance News reporter

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
GHA rolls back mask requirements in non-clinical areas

The Director of Public Health has advised that the levels of winter viruses, including influenza and COVID, circulating in Gibraltars population have now decreased. The GHA has therefore removed the requirement for masks to be worn in its non-clinical areas.

Masks will continue to be required in the GHAs clinical areas and will be offered to patients and visitors. The GHA strongly encourages those who have weakened immune systems to continue to wear masks when attending St Bernards Hospital.

Masks will continue to be required in all areas within the Primary Care Centre.

Please continue to take reasonable precautions and avoid visiting the hospital or ERS with symptoms of a cold, flu, diarrhoea or vomiting.
(Alliance News) - Evraz PLC on Monday said it has been unable to engage an auditor to review its results for 2022, due to UK sanctions imposed on the firm.

The company, a major manufacturer of Russian steel, said it has asked the secretary of state for guidance but has not received a response yet.

In May 2022, the UK government announced that Evraz had been sanctioned as it operates in sectors of strategic significance to the Russian government.

The asset freeze means no UK citizen or company can do business with them.

The deadline to publish its annual report and audited financial statements for its previous financial year is April 30 and Evraz said it is likely it will not be able to meet this deadline.

Shares in the company remain suspended in London.

By Jeremy Cutler, Alliance News reporter

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - Rishi Sunak has signed a breakthrough deal with the EU over post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland and will now seek to win the backing of unionists and Tory Eurosceptics.

The UK prime minister and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen finalised the long-awaited agreement to ease the trading issues created by the Northern Ireland Protocol during a summit at Windsor on Monday, a senior government source told the PA news agency.

The European Commission president will go on to have tea with the King at Windsor Castle despite criticisms that the meeting would drag Charles into the politically contentious deal.

Sunak hopes the deal will win the approval of the Democratic Unionist Party so powersharing can be restored in Northern Ireland to get Stormont back up and running.

DUP support would also be key in convincing Conservative Brexiteers to back the deal as pressure mounted on the prime minister to give MPs a Commons vote.

Earlier in the day, Conservative Brexiteer Jacob Rees-Mogg warned Sunak of a possible Tory revolt if the DUP does not support the deal, despite major concessions expected from the EU.

The former cabinet minister told GB News: "It will all depend on the DUP. If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy."

He said that the position of Boris Johnson, who he described as the "biggest figure in UK politics", will be "fundamental".

But arch-Brexiteer Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland Office minister who had been on resignation watch, gave Sunak his support.

Leaving No 10, he told broadcasters: "I can only say this: that the prime minister is on the cusp of securing a really fantastic result for everyone involved."

Charles's meeting with von der Leyen was criticised as "constitutionally unwise" by Rees-Mogg because it involves the King "in a matter of immediate political controversy".

Arlene Foster, the former DUP leader and ex-first minister of Northern Ireland, said it was "crass and will go down very badly" with the unionists Sunak is trying to win over.

Conservative Eurosceptic Theresa Villiers said it is "crucial" for Sunak to give MPs a vote on the deal, as Downing Street declined to commit to one.

The former Northern Ireland secretary told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "I can't conceive of circumstances where something as significant as this could be finally agreed and implemented without MPs voting on it in Parliament."

She said she will consider the deal itself as well as talking to the DUP before deciding whether to support it, but stressed that restoring powersharing was "crucial".

"It's intolerable that we've got the protocol undermining political stability in Northern Ireland," she said.

Keir Starmer reiterated Labour's support for any deal but said the real test will be whether Sunak "has got the strength to sell it to his backbenchers or not".

After a speech in the City of London, Starmer said it is "almost inevitable" that the European Court of Justice will "have to play some part" after the deal, a contentious point for the DUP.

But he said "we've got to make progress" on Northern Ireland before making "real changes" to the wider Brexit deal.

The prime minister will brief his senior ministers in a virtual meeting of the Cabinet.

He will then rejoin von der Leyen to set out the deal to voters in a joint press conference before the prime minister makes a statement to MPs in the Commons.

Tory Brexiteers in the European Research Group will convene MP Bill Cash's so-called "star chamber" of lawyers to scrutinise the deal before deciding whether to back it.

The protocol, signed by Johnson as prime minister in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit.

Northern Ireland has continued to follow EU rules on goods to prevent checks being needed when crossing into the Republic.

But the trade barriers created between Northern Ireland and Great Britain have angered unionists.

The DUP collapsed powersharing at Stormont last year in protest at the protocol's impact, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly.

Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson has issued seven tests that Sunak's new pact will have to meet to win DUP backing.

Chief among them is addressing what he calls the "democratic deficit" of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

The deal is expected to include check-free lanes for goods coming from Great Britain into Northern Ireland.

Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab said the reduction in trade red tape would lead to a "substantial scaling back" of the role of the ECJ.

But he refused on Sunday to rule out the court having a say on future legal cases, which could prove to be a flashpoint for DUP resistance.

If Sunak does allow a Commons vote, he is likely to win because Labour has agreed to support it, but he would want to succeed without relying on Opposition votes.

By Sam Blewett, David Hughes and Sophie Wingate, PA Political Staff

Press Association: News

source: PA

Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - UK food minister Mark Spencer has summoned supermarket chiefs to explain "what they are doing to get shelves stocked again" amid shortages of fresh fruit and vegetables.

The meeting comes as consumers continue to face, at best, buying restrictions on certain fresh produce items such as tomatoes, cucumbers and peppers or even bare shelves as retailers grapple with supply problems.

Food & farming minister Mark Spencer said: "The current situation  caused by recent poor weather in North Africa  shows how dependent we can be on certain trade routes for some types of food.

"I know families expect the fresh produce they need to be on the shelves when they go in for their weekly shop. That is why I am calling in supermarket chiefs to find out what they are doing to get shelves stocked again and to outline how we can avoid a repeat of this.

"As we do our shopping, we should all give our thanks to the UK's tens of thousands of farmers and food producers for keeping us fed throughout the year and particularly showing their mettle keeping the nation going during the pandemic."

On Wednesday, Tesco PLC followed Aldi, Asda and Morrisons in introducing customer limits on certain fresh produce as shortages left supermarket shelves bare.

Tesco and Aldi are limiting customers to three units of tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers as a precautionary measure, while Asda is also limiting customers on lettuce, salad bags, broccoli, cauliflower and raspberries.

Morrisons has set a limit of two items per customer across tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and peppers.

Retailers believe the problems stem from poor yields on the continent and north Africa and that supplies will improve in the coming days or weeks.

Environment Secretary Therese Coffey said on Thursday, British consumers should eat more turnips instead of imported food.

The National Farmers' Union said shortages of some fruit and vegetables in UK supermarkets could be "the tip of the iceberg".

Deputy President Tom Bradshaw said a reliance on imports has left the UK vulnerable to "shock weather events".

Soaring energy bills exacerbated by the war in Ukraine have also put off some UK vegetable growers, he added.

He said the UK has "hit a tipping point" and needs to "take command of the food we produce" amid "volatility around the world" caused by the war in Europe and climate change.

source: PA

Copyright 2023 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
2 Israelis killed in Palestinian drive-by shooting attack

Xinhua) 09:24, February 27, 2023

Israeli soldiers close the Hawara checkpoint south of the West Bank city of Nablus, following the killing of two Israelis, Feb. 26, 2023. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua)

JERUSALEM, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Two Israelis were killed in a Palestinian drive-by shooting attack in the occupied West Bank on Sunday amid surging violence in the region, Israeli sources said.

Israel's Magen David Adom emergency service said in a statement that the two individuals were in their 20s and had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. They were taken to a hospital in Israel, where they were later pronounced dead.

The Israeli army said in a statement that a Palestinian in a passing vehicle opened fire on the two Israelis while they were sitting in a car near the Hawara checkpoint, south of the Palestinian city of Nablus.

A large-scale manhunt was launched after the suspects fled the scene. "IDF (Israel Defense Forces) soldiers are pursuing the terrorists and are blocking the area," the statement read.

The Hebrew-language Haaretz newspaper quoted eyewitnesses as saying that the shooter was a Palestinian man wearing a shirt of the "Lion's Den," a militant group that emerged over the past year and is quickly gaining popularity.

On Wednesday, 11 Palestinians were killed and at least 102 others injured in an Israeli military raid in Nablus. At least three of the victims were members of the Lion's Den and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another armed group. The raid, one of the deadliest in the West Bank in recent years, led to vows of revenge by the Palestinian groups.

The incident came amid surging violence in the West Bank, a territory seized by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war. Israel has kept its control over these lands, which the Palestinians claim for their future country.

Israeli soldiers close the Hawara checkpoint south of the West Bank city of Nablus, following the killing of two Israelis, Feb. 26, 2023. (Photo by Nidal Eshtayeh/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Looking for a deadlift that will not only strengthen your back but also help you focus on your hamstrings and glutes? The Romanian Deadlift, also called RDL, is a traditional barbell exercise that has massive benefits. It activates the posterior aspects of the body and is a great idea for runners and athletes. In this article, we will cover the form of the most basic Romanian Deadlift. We will then discuss the benefits of the deadlift, some of the variations, and compare the Romanian and the traditional deadlift.



Form for the Romanian Deadlift

 iStock

The steps to the Romanian Deadlift are similar to a regular deadlift. However, since there is an added focus on the posterior part of the body, there are certain important distinctions. The following steps are for a barbell deadlift, but you might choose to adapt them for dumbbells.

Stand with the barbell in front of your with your feet about hip-width distance apart. Grip the barbell at a little more than hip-width distance with your palms facing towards you. Raise the barbell so that it is resting in front of your thighs. This is, technically, the beginning of your repetition. Let your shoulders fall sideways and become aware of the connection between your little fingers and your shoulder blades. This will help you to keep your arms connected to your back Lower the barbell to the floor by pivoting at the hip joint. Keep the knees slightly bent at all times. Be sure to keep the back lengthened and tuck your chin into your chest. This will help your spine, particularly your cervical spine, from experiencing any unnecessary strain. You do not need to place the barbell on the floor. Once you begin to feel your hamstrings activating, you can stop. This might be at knee or shin level, depending on your flexibility. Shift your weight slightly back onto your heels, tilt the pelvis back to neutral, and raise the barbell so that it is again resting in front of your thighs. You may choose to slightly straighten the knees during this process to further activate the hamstrings. During the process of lowering and lifting the weight, avoid looking at yourself in the mirror. Instead, look towards your feet. This will help you in maintaining a safe orientation for your cervical spine. It is useful to have the barbell placed on a rack in front of you at about thigh height before you begin. This will keep you from having to raise it from the floor. Maintain the lengthening of the spine, and the slight bend of the knees at all times.

 iStock

As highlighted earlier, the Romanian deadlift adds to the benefits of the deadlift by activating the hamstrings and gluteus muscles. There are a few other essential distinctions between the Romanian and regular deadlift that are highlighted below.

The beginning of a regular deadlift is when the barbell or dumbbells are raised from the floor. The beginning of the Romanian Deadlift is when the barbell begins to be lowered to the floor. The regular deadlift involves a concentric contraction, while the Romanian Deadlift involves an eccentric contraction The regular deadlift primarily activates the quadricep muscles of the legs, while the Romanian Deadlift activates the hamstrings. Both deadlifts involve a hinging of the hips. However, the hinging is slightly greater in the Romanian Deadlift to activate the gluteus muscles. While the regular deadlift involves pushing into the floor to raise the barbell, the Romanian Deadlift involves a pulling action to lower the barbell.

You may also want to consider looking into the regular deadlift and its variations in detail.

Benefits of the Romanian Deadlift

While we have mentioned some of them already, the Romanian Deadlift has various benefits that require a listing to be acknowledged.



The Romanian Deadlift enhances the pulling strength of the person practising it. Since it activates the erector spinae, the gluteus maximus, the hamstring, as well as the adductor muscles, it gives the person the capacity to engage these muscles more efficiently. This increases their capacity to pull.

The Romanian Deadlift is great for athletes. This is because most athletes use their posterior muscles to run or jump.

The Romanian Deadlift is an important way to develop leg strength. Since the hamstring muscles are engaged during RDL, they slowly begin to develop after sufficient repetitions. The Romanian Deadlift is a great way to develop some hamstring mass.

The Romanian Deadlift can be an important contributor to your weightlifting repertoire. If you are into competitive weight-lifting, the RDL will strengthen your capacity to snatch and clean much better. Not only will it make your muscles more capable of lifting heavier weights, but it will also improve your technique for other deadlifts by introducing subtlety into your form., the RDL will strengthen

Variations of the Romanian Deadlift

 iStock

The Romanian Deadlift has many variations, a few of which have been described below.

Kettlebell Romanian Deadlift

 Amazon India

Click here for the price and details.



The Kettlebell Deadlift is a great addition if you are a beginner or if you don't have the necessary equipment to practice the regular deadlift. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hold the kettlebell so that it is directly in front of your thighs. Keep your back lengthened, and maintain a slight bend in your knees. Gradually lower the kettlebell to the floor by hinging at the hip. Keep your back lengthened and make sure to look towards the feet. Contact the bottom of the kettlebell on the floor. Raise the kettlebell by tilting your pelvis the other way and by using your hamstring muscles to help pull the weight up. Stand with the kettlebell in front of your thighs. This will be one repetition.

You can incorporate the Kettlebell Romanian Deadlift into your at-home exercise routine.

Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift

The Single Leg Romanian Deadlift is a challenging variation to the regular deadlift that will affect your leg muscles differently.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and hold the barbell/ dumbbells so that they are in front of your thighs Shift your weight to your right leg. Bring your left leg up behind you while simultaneously hinging at the hip. Keep your back lengthened and your right knee slightly bent. Lower the barbell/ dumbbells to the floor. Use your right leg and your back to pull the barbell back up. Bring your left leg back to its original position at the same time. Bring your weight back onto two feet. Let the barbell/ dumbells again rest in front of your thighs. This will be the end of one repetition. Make sure to not look towards a mirror and/or pull your head back as that will increase the risk of you injuring your cervical spine.

Resistance Band Romanian Deadlift

 Amazon India

Click here for the price and details.

A Resistance Band Romanian Deadlift is a great way to practice the deadlift if you do not have the necessary equipment. It is also a great way to practice RDLs when you are travelling or are living in a hotel room.

Place a looped resistance band in front of you. Step on it so that your feet are about hip-width distance. Make sure that the resistance band is slack enough for you to pull. Tip your pelvis forward, while maintaining the length of the back. Hold the resistance band with your hands. Keep your knees slightly bent. Pull the resistance band up till about the height of your shins. This will be your starting position. Tip your pelvis back and use your back and legs to pull the resistance band up to your thighs. Once you are standing upright, stay there for a moment. This will be the end of one repetition.

You can incorporate the Resistance Band RDL into your resistance band exercise routine.

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Conclusion

We have gone through the form of the Romanian Deadlift, compared it to the regular deadlift, looked into its benefits, and gone through some variations. However, the best way to understand RDL is to practice it. It is always best to start with lighter/ smaller weights. You may also seek the guidance of a gym instructor or professional to guide you through the process.

It is best to practice the Romanian Deadlift on your leg days. However, it might also be useful to practice it on a separate day (so that you have two leg days), as it engages the legs and the back. However, we strongly encourage you to incorporate RDLs into your routines sooner rather than later. They are simple exercises that pack a strong punch. Or one might say a strong pull?



References:
A month into the rollout of its new one-stop human resources platform, the Army is asking soldiers to log in, explore the system and verify what it says about them.

Officials with the Integrated Personnel and Pay System-Army, or IPPS-A, say that fewer than half of the 1.1 million troops now in the system -- 486,000 soldiers -- have logged in, either using their desktop or the mobile app.

Checking the system is important because there have been a string of problems since the platform went live last month, such as incomplete data or glitches that can affect promotions, duty status or assignments, IPPS-A Senior Enlisted Adviser Sgt. Major Gary Krese said during a town hall conducted via Microsoft Teams on Feb. 23.

Read Next: The Navy's Top Enlisted Sailor Is Ready for You to Ask Him Anything

"Every single soldier is going to touch this system, so we want you to understand that -- understand the capabilities that exist for you, understand how this can enhance your career, understand how it can enhance your personnel actions, pay ... how it can set up your family on the personal side," Krese said.

The nearly $600 million program, which is based on commercial software from Oracle PeopleSoft, has been in the works for nearly a decade. It consolidates what once were separate pay, benefits and promotions systems into a single format accessible to the user across the Army and their careers.

Used by the National Guard Bureau since 2020, the system went live for the active and Reserve forces on Jan. 17, following several delays to address technical issues, some of which contributed to stalled promotions.

IPPS-A officials said service members should log in to review their records and, if they see something missing or incorrect, file a personnel action request through the system.

And if they have trouble with the program itself, they should submit a customer relationship management ticket after reading the Frequently Asked Questions or using the search function. Not only will submitting a ticket help get their problem solved, it will help administrators learn of bugs in the system, they said.

"The more information we have on these cases, the more expeditiously they will be resolved," Col. Rebecca Eggers, IPPS-A's functional management division chief, told reporters during a system demonstration in Arlington, Virginia, on Friday.

Officials said there have been some early growing pains, such as access issues tied to browser choice with users learning that the system works best with Google Chrome, and incorrect or incomplete data where information from an older system didn't convert neatly into the new format.

In late January, 25,000 Tricare beneficiaries were accidentally removed from the health program as a result of an update of the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, or DEERS; in early February, roughly 600 active-duty officers and warrant officers also were booted from Tricare, likely as a result of an error with the Army's tools for tracking health care eligibility.

Other issues have included omitting or awarding incorrect promotion points for honor graduates, commandant's list or distinguished leaders, a glitch fixed Feb. 20; issues with dependent information, expected to be fixed by March 1; and duty status not reflecting when soldiers come off leave, expected to be resolved in March.

During the town hall, officials said one of the biggest thorns was that some troops cant locate their supervisors in the system -- a key component for making personnel requests -- which hopefully will be resolved in March.

Officials also said they are aware of a growing problem with troops being flagged as non-deployable or ineligible for awards based on faulty information about weight control and family care plans.

Eggers said that the system is not randomly flagging individuals, but it has been flagging those who may have been on a weight management plan at some point during the eligibility period for an award, even though the weight issue had been addressed.

"That is a known issue, that we have a defect that I think actually is supposed to get resolved in the beginning of March," Eggers said.

She said that while switching to a new system is never easy, IPPS-A ultimately will prove to be more effective for soldiers, HR offices and the Army to manage the talent pool. One of its biggest features is a section that she said allows troops to add expertise, talents or skills they have that aren't related to their jobs in the service.

As an example, she cited the case of Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville, who, while deployed to Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne Division, was responsible for reconstruction. With National Guard troops under his command, McConville said it would have been nice to have been able to tap into a skills database to determine special skills possessed by the citizen-soldiers.

"They were mayors, they were electricians, they ran towns -- plumbers, the whole nine yards," Eggers explained. "Some of that is really to key in on what are the other things that we really don't focus on so much in the Army but do add talent to your force."

Not only does the Army hope that IPPS-A will provide that insight, the service will also be able to easily check how many soldiers it has by rank and specialty, the duty statuses of personnel, and unit manning. Leaders will be able to improve services to soldiers, such as those enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program, to ensure that their orders can accommodate their families.

With IPPS-A, troops should be able to ask for leave -- now known as absences -- without the danger of their paper leave request getting lost, and they can change their addresses without having to go to the admin shop.

"In the 27 years that I've been in the Army, I've never been able to update my address by myself. That's been fun," Eggers said.

The system uses the term, "absences" instead of the Army term "leave." Will the language in the system ever be changed?

Nope.

"This is a commercial, off-the-shelf product, so all our customizations, we've really tried to take a good look at 'Is this big enough that we need to change the name in the system and then have to keep changing it when we get upgrades?' ... Quite frankly, five years from now, it won't have made a difference that people are calling it absences, so we left it as absence," Eggers said.

The Army has published several training aids to help soldiers navigate the new system, which currently includes mostly personnel information with some function to request special pays. The next iteration of IPPS-A, expected in 2027, will fully include all types of pay management -- base pay, incentive pays, Thrift Savings Plan, allotments, allowances -- and will then be a "truly integrated system," Krese said.

For now, however, Army officials want commanders to embrace the capabilities of IPPS-A and stop using any legacy systems they may prefer.

"IPPS-A is the system of record. Leaders, please understand we are getting away from legacy processes. The way we did things yesterday is not how we are doing them today, and it's not how we will do them tomorrow," Krese said.

-- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@Military.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime

Related: Army Promotions Will Be Stalled for Months Because of New HR System
A young boy, nicknamed JJ, was missing for 24 hours after leaving his home in central Florida while a parent slept  until a 911 call came in.

More than 500 volunteers joined law enforcement in the search for Joshua JJ Rowland, trekking deep into the woods and through buggy swamps after he disappeared from Brooksville the morning of Feb. 23 wearing a gray Batman shirt and gray pants, according to the Hernando County Sheriffs Office.

Alongside searching for the 2-year-old on foot, authorities deployed drones, helicopters and used canines to track the toddlers scent, the sheriffs office said in several updates shared to Facebook.

But the blonde, curly-haired boy was still missing the early morning of Feb. 24.

Then, a former Marine, who volunteered in the search and is now being hailed as the man of the year by Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis, phoned 911.

I found him! Roy Link told a dispatcher about JJ in the 911 call shared by the sheriffs office. In the background, the toddler is heard calling out for his mother.

Link found JJ unharmed and in the woods several miles north of his home after the boy spent the night outside, according to the sheriffs office.

Little JJ climbed onto him and didnt want to let go, Nienhuis said in a video with Link. He was so excited to see him.

Link said he prayed about 10 minutes before spotting JJ.

The good news is he did not end up in any water obviously, and he was not abducted, Nienhuis said in another video shared to Facebook. He was found in the woods and he seems to be fine.

The morning of Feb. 24, Link, 62, entered an open field while searching for JJ and chose between pursuing one of two wooded areas on his right and left side, according to the Tampa Bay Times.

Following his intuition, Link picked the woods on his left and heard JJ whimpering before finding him about 100 feet away, the Tampa Bay Times reported.

While discussing the search for JJ, Link described his amazement at finding JJ safe in a phone interview with the outlet.

You know all that bad stuff starts going through your mind, but then finding him healthy and alive, its just...wow, Link said.

The sheriffs office expressed its gratitude for those who helped search for JJ and the people who dropped off water and snacks for the volunteers.

In regards to JJs rescue, Nienhuis said the boy will have a story to tell his children and grandchildren one day before adding Im sure mom and dad are going to keep a closer eye on him from this point forward.

Brooksville is a city about 50 miles north of Tampa.

2023 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
VUHLEDAR, Ukraine  The murky water oh so slowly trickles from the filthy drainpipe into her grimy container  the ticking seconds ramping up the risk that Emilia Budskaya could lose life or limb to Russian artillery strikes torturing her front-line town in eastern Ukraine.

Gaping gashes from shrapnel in the courtyard walls around her testify to the dangers of venturing outside  exposed and without the body armor that Ukrainian soldiers defending Vuhledar wear when they emerge from their bunkers.

But Budskaya and her daughter need water to cling on and survive, to eke out another day in the ruins.

And so they wait  tick, tick, tick  for the container to fill, for Budskaya to then pour the water into plastic bottles and  tick, tick, tick  for her to then start the process again until their bottles are filled.

Picking their way through the debris and mud, they carry their bounty back to the dark basement that now passes for their home.

We have no water, nothing, Budskaya says. "Im getting rain water to wash dishes and hands.

On the largely static front line between Ukrainian and Russian forces that stretches over hundreds of kilometers (miles), from the Black Sea in the south to Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia, Vuhledar has become one of the deadliest hot spots.

It has joined Bakhmut, Marinka and other cities and towns, particularly in fiercely contested eastern Ukraine, as evidence of a grinding and destructive war of attrition, as well as symbols of fierce Ukrainian resistance.

By defending their ruins, Ukrainian forces are slowing costly Russian offensive efforts to extend Moscow's control over the entirety of eastern Ukraine's industrial Donbas region. It became Russian President Vladimir Putin's revised target for conquest after his forces were beaten back from the capital, Kyiv, and northern Ukraine in the invasion's opening stage a year ago.

Ukrainian soldiers are paying a heavy price, too, but say their sacrifices are wearing down waves of troops and equipment that Moscow is throwing into battle.

In Bakhmut, a soldier who allowed himself to be identified only by his war name, Expert, said the pulverized city in the Donbas' Donetsk region has become a stronghold " for Ukraine.

See what they have done to it?" he said of Russian forces that have been pounding Bakhmut for months, slowly inching forward with heavy casualties to capture a prize that, if it falls, might allow Moscow to argue that the invasion is making progress.

And this is not the only city, the soldier, who fights in a Ukrainian rapid response unit, added. "I wish they would break their teeth trying to chew it.

Battlefields around Vuhledar, southwest of Bakhmut and also in the Donetsk region, bear witness to the precious equipment and manpower that Russia is expending, with little territorial gain. Tanks and other armored fighting vehicles blown up by mines or stopped in their tracks by Ukrainian strikes are clumped together on the blasted, cratered terrain.

Although Russia has seized most of the Luhansk region that also forms part of the Donbas, the adjacent Donetsk region remains roughly divided between Ukrainian and Russian control.

Ukraine's military said Sunday that Russian assaults in the east remain concentrated on Bakhmut and other objectives.

Russian forces include mercenaries of the notorious Wagner Group, a private military company that has recruited fighters from prisons and tossed them into combat, with high casualty rates. Its millionaire owner with longtime links to Putin, former convicted felon Yevgeny Prigozhin, said Saturday that his fighters had advanced into a settlement on Bakhmut's northern outskirts. The Ukrainian military disputed that claim, saying Russian forces were repelled.

Donetsk Gov. Pavlo Kyrylenko reported three civilians killed and four wounded in Russian strikes on Saturday. Vuhledar and its surroundings were also intensely shelled, he said. Further along the front line, in the southern Kherson region also split between Ukrainian and Russian control, Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin reported two civilians killed and seven injured in 78 Russian strikes on the region on Saturday.

On patrol in Vuhledar's ruins, hurrying down muddy paths to take cover behind pockmarked walls, Ukrainian soldiers said their fight was larger than for control of the city.

We fight for our children, for our fellow Ukrainians, for our nation, said a marine with the war name Moryak.

Because I think what Russia is doing now is genocide of Ukrainians. And Ukrainians dont have another option but to win."

___

John Leicester in Kyiv, Ukraine, and Elise Morton in London contributed to this report.
GENEVA  A top U.S. arms control official on Monday sharply criticized Russia for suspending its participation in the last remaining nuclear weapons treaty, but said Washington will try to work with Moscow to continue its implementation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced last week that the country would suspend participation in the New START treaty which obligated both Russia and the U.S. to commit to regular communications on the status of their nuclear arsenals, allow regular on-site inspections and abide by caps on the number of deployed and non-deployed warheads of each side.

Russia is once again showing the world that it is not a responsible nuclear power, Bonnie Jenkins, the U.S. undersecretary of state for arms control, said at a session of the Conference on Disarmament, a United Nations-affiliated international forum.

Russia is not withdrawing from the treaty, which is in force until 2026, but Putin said Russia cannot accept U.S. inspections of its nuclear sites while Washington and its NATO allies seek Russias defeat in Ukraine. The Russian Foreign Ministry said the country would respect the treatys caps on nuclear weapons and continue notifying the U.S. about test launches of ballistic missiles.

The inspections have been dormant since 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussions on resuming them were supposed to have taken place last November, but Russia abruptly called them off.

Jenkins later told reporters that the U.S. has not fully assessed the consequences of Russia's suspension move, but said we're not seeing any evidence that Russia is in noncompliance.

We remain ready to work assertively with Russia to fully implement the New START treaty, continued implementation of the treaty based on the best interests of both parties, she said.

Putin's announcement of suspending participation came just before the first anniversary of Russia sending troops into Ukraine. Putin has repeatedly cast the conflict as necessary to combat alleged Western aims to weaken Russia and has warned of an increasing threat of nuclear war.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy head of the national security council, said last week that If the U.S. wants Russias defeat, we have the right to defend ourselves with any weapons, including nuclear.

Russia must end this war and must cease its irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, Jenkins said.

French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna also harshly criticized Russia's New START suspension at the Geneva conference as added proof  if any was needed  of the dangerous impasse that Russia is sealing itself into.

Jim Heintz reported from Moscow
How to choose a freight forwarder and market introduction of a freight forwarder

It is essential to have experienced and reliable freight forwarders when transporting goods to all parts of the world. You need someone to take care of your goods as well as your own. Of course, there are many freight forwarders who will do this for you - it's just a matter of finding them. The following is a guide for selecting the right company for all your freight needs, whether by land, air or sea.

Quality of excellent freight forwarders

A freight forwarder is a company that arranges goods from one destination to another. If you are looking for a freight forwarder, you need to look for some quality to ensure that you get the best service.

Do your research so that you can sleep like a baby and know that your goods are safe! The following are some qualities of excellent freight forwarders that should be paid attention to when selecting professionals who provide shipping agency services.

experience

Experience has fully demonstrated the quality of freight forwarders. A good one should be able to provide advice and guidance on the best route and method suitable for your needs. To do this, they need the knowledge and practical experience of the industry. Once you have a list of potential customers, compare their experience to see which one meets the requirements.

reputation

Another criterion for comparing different freight forwarders is reputation. Seek advice from other enterprises or customers who have used its services. Look at what word of mouth says about a particular company. You can also view the online reviews of these companies and select companies with positive recommendations.

flexibility

Not every shipment is the same. Here, you need a flexible freight forwarder who can roll with his fist. Reliable freight forwarders should be able to provide options for special handling of certain goods, such as temperature-controlled containers and professional transportation. Before selecting professionals, be sure to inform them of your needs and requirements. The right one can meet your needs and deliver the goods!

network

The high-quality freight forwarder has a reliable partner network to ensure the safe and timely delivery of your goods. See if they can arrange pickup and delivery at convenient places, and provide tracking and monitoring of your goods.

signal communication

Shipping may be a long process. It may be nerve-racking to know where your products are. This is where effective communication can be used. Make sure that the professionals you choose keep in touch with you and keep clear communication throughout the process. They should be able to answer any of your questions and provide regular updates on the status of shipments.

When looking for a good freight forwarder, you must conduct research and ensure that they have the appropriate experience and expertise to meet your needs. High-quality professionals should be able to provide reliable and cost-effective solutions for your domestic and international transportation needs.

Factors affecting freight forwarder a freight forwarder Freight transportation

In international freight transport, one of the most concerning issues is the price of freight transport. The cost is directly related to the cost of transportation. Because many exporters do not understand the price of transportation very much, and often have a lot of extra spending, then today to understand the factors of the price of international freight transportation? Do You Need Freight Forwarders? China DDP for World is a full-service and shipping forwarder dedicated to assisting our clients in focusing and growing their businesses. Send an Email to info@ddpforworld.com and get the latest freight price.

The transportation prices are different for different a freight forwarder

In the general international trade process, the price of transport according to different modes of transport, price is also different. International freight rates are divided into sea freight, air freight and rail freight.

The specific a freight forwarder freight rate can also be subdivided. For example, rail freight can be divided into passenger freight and freight. Shipping rates are also divided into tramp rates and liner rates. Tramp rates are also affected by market supply and demand relations at that time, while liner transport costs are relatively fixed. Airfreight can be divided into general goods, designated goods and special goods, and the specific transportation price is also determined according to the weight of transportation, at the same time, even if the volume is small, the weight is also counted by weight, but if the opposite is large, small weight, also according to the specific volume to calculate.

The choice of international logistics, the quality of logistics will affect the seller's store score, but also affect customer satisfaction rate.

Logistics advantages of the a freight forwarder in the destination country and region

In Eastern Europe, DHL has advantages in Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, Hungary and other places while EMS has advantages in Greece, Russia, Turkey and other places. Western Europe, Northern Europe, southern Europe can use DHL international express, TNT international express, these two kinds of customs clearance capacity. TNT has a clear advantage in the Netherlands and Belgium.

For Canada, the United States and other American countries, FedEx, UPS and DHL are all suitable for their strong customs clearance capacity and fast time.

Applicable to Asia, South Korea, Japan, Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries DHL, FedEx. DHL and FedEx are time-saving, but THE price of DHL is higher. Indonesia also suggests USING DHL because it has a stronger customs clearance capacity.

In Oceania, DHL and UPS aging fast, with high prices; TNT and FedEx have lower prices but relatively few outlets. Particular attention should be paid to the "Made in China" label on the packaging of Australian products.

Middle East express ARAMEX, EMS for Middle East region. Commercial express in Africa is very expensive. In remote areas, IT is suggested to send EMS international express. EMS countries have the strongest customs clearance capacity. The air express a freight forwarder can reach many countries and regions that commercial express and postal express cannot reach, so the wide range of a freight forwarder transportation is its advantage.

Factors affecting the shipping price of a freight forwarder

In the process of international transportation, there are many factors affecting the price of transportation, in addition to some fuel and labor costs, there are many important factors. For example, the nature of the a freight forwarder, its own value and packaging form, as well as stowage factor and transporter's requirements for transportation, etc. There will be some fixed costs during the use of the ship, such as the ship's maintenance insurance and fuel consumption. There is also the change of supply and demand in the a freight forwarder market. In the transport off-season, transport prices are relatively low, in the transport of the peak season, transport prices will be relatively high.

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Miles Mikolas didnt exactly suggest that he might give the Cardinals a so-called hometown discount in a new contract, even though the teams spring camp is located in his actual hometown of Jupiter, Florida. Mikolas noted to MLB.coms John Denton that when he returned to the big leagues after pitching in Japan from 2015-17, I had four or five offers that were all about the same, and I chose the Cardinals because of the organization, the fanbase and because Spring Training is in my hometown. There are always a lot of factors that play into it, and theyll play into it if I have a decision to make down the road. Of course, Mikolas also noted that other teams play near Jupiter, and joked that he wouldnt necessarily be tied to the area since the fishing is still pretty good on the west coast [of Florida].

Mikolas said that everything about being a Cardinal is fantastic and that he is happy with St. Louis. As far as a long-term deal is concerned, those decisions arent always up to the player. My job is to go out there and get outs as efficiently as I can, and thats what Im going to focus on. After his initial deal with the Cardinals, Mikolas already agreed to one extension with the club, and 2023 is the final season of that four-year, $68MM pact. The Cards pitching outlook is a major storyline hanging over the teams season, as Mikolas, Jack Flaherty, and Jordan Montgomery are all slated to free agency next winter and Adam Wainwright will retire after the year.

More from around the NL Central
Right-hander Jeff Hoffman has signed a minor league contract containing multiple opt-outs with the Minnesota Twins, reports Phil Miller of the Star Tribune. Per FanSideds Robert Murray, the opt-outs are for March 28, May 15, and June 15. The deal pays Hoffman $1.3MM when in the majors, and includes $50K incentives for pitching appearances in each of 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 games, meaning the deals potential value maxes out at $1.6MM total.

Hoffman, 30, was the 9th overall pick in the 2014 draft, selected by the Blue Jays. Following a swap to Colorado as part of the Troy Tulowitzki trade, Hoffman came up as a member of the Rockies in 2016, and spent parts of five seasons in a swing role for the club. Despite racking up 230 2/3 innings for the club across those five years, Hoffman never found his footing in Colorado, pitching to a 6.40 ERA (79 ERA+) with a 5.58 FIP.

Even in spite of those struggles, Hoffmans top prospect pedigree, impressive stuff, and ability to start all intrigued the Reds enough to swap reliever Robert Stephenson for him ahead of the 2021 campaign. Out of Coors Field for the first time in his big league career, Hoffman posted back to back seasons with an above average ERA+ in 2021 and 2022, combining for a 4.28 ERA (108 ERA+) and 4.86 FIP in 117 2/3 innings of work. The 2022 season in particular was a strong one for Hoffman, who pitched largely out of the bullpen en route to a 3.83 ERA (117 ERA+) and 4.30 FIP in 44 2/3 innings.

That encouraging uptick in performance wasnt enough for Hoffman to avoid getting non-tendered in November, however, and its easy to see why the Reds may have had concerns: Hoffman struggled with his control during his time in Cincinnati, walking a 12.8% of batters faced over the last two seasons, and his success last year may have been predicated, at least in part, on an unsustainable 7.5% of his fly balls leaving the yard despite an 8.7% barrel rate.

Now, Hoffman is set to compete for a role on Minnesotas pitching staff. Such a role seems likely to come in the bullpen, given the clubs deep group of rotation options. Hoffman seems particularly likely to compete for a spot in the Twins bullpen with fellow new arrival Dennis Santana, who was claimed off waivers from the Braves earlier today. Both right-handers have big stuff and have to this point in their careers struggled with control, but has shown himself to be an interesting long-relief or swing option in the big leagues, as well.

In this hypothetical camp battle, Hoffman has prospect pedigree on his side, but Santana has the advantage of youth in addition to even more impressive stuff: his fastball ranked in the 91st percentile in 2022, per Statcast, while Hoffmans ranked in just the 61st percentile (albeit with a more impressive 93rd percentile spin rate). Should Hoffman not make the Opening Day roster in Minnesota, the three opt-outs in his deal will provide him with ample opportunities to test the open market again, should he so choose.
The spirit of enterprise has a long and storied tradition on the African continent. Although some entrepreneurs run large corporations, most operate on a much smaller scale. They are in high demand as a result of the growing technology sector and the need for fresh approaches to the continent's oldest challenges. This is when an MBA program comes in handy. South African business promotes innovation. This article discusses teaching enterprise skills in schools and how higher education may help people. The importance of entrepreneurship in South Africa is of vital importance for the growth of its population. So, let's get started!

How Crucial Is It For African Schools To Teach Students How To Become Entrepreneurs?

African schools must educate entrepreneurship to equip young people with the skills to start and grow enterprises. Entrepreneurship education helps students identify opportunities and assess business concepts. Professional essays at EduBirdie are a fun method to accomplish it. Just pick your author and get a top-notch piece of paper. It may also help kids learn how can entrepreneurship be promoted in South Africa, from creating a strategy to selling their wares. Capitalism education may help students develop and operate enterprises, creating jobs and reducing poverty.

Innovation may also be aided by teaching aspiring enterprise owners in Africa. To maintain a competitive edge and adapt to the requirements of a diverse consumer base, firms must constantly innovate. Creativity and inventiveness are crucial while conducting business in this place due to poor infrastructure and limited customer bases. Entrepreneurship programs help students think laterally, create new ideas, and solve problems. This may improve Africa's healthcare, education, and agricultural issues and boost its economy.

What Role May Enterprise Schools Play In Assisting African Company Owners?

For the sake of promoting enterprise and innovation, business ideas for students in south africa are often present. Several ways in which African capitalists might benefit from them are listed below. Let's check them out.

1. Instruct Students In Entrepreneurship Business

Schools may teach students about business at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Programs may teach strategy, pitching investors, and firm management. Business professors may teach public entrepreneurship to help students solve social and environmental issues.

2. Incubation Programs

These programs, often housed at business schools, provide early-stage projects with crucial resources. Startups may have access to useful ones, including office space, mentoring, and investment via these initiatives. Venture capitalists and investors may work with schools to help finance new businesses.

3. Investment In R&D

Some of the difficulties African business owners face may be mitigated by investment in R&D at business schools. This research may help entrepreneurs understand and solve their problems. Business college concepts and frameworks may potentially boost innovation and development across the continent. African businesspeople might benefit from the networking possibilities offered by enterprise schools. Workshops, conferences, and work contests are all examples of such occasions.

What Challenges Are Ahead Of Africa?

The value of entrepreneurial education should not be downplayed. But, many challenges remain before African pupils may get this kind of training. Business program funding and national curriculum commerce understanding are major barriers to leadership knowledge. Nonetheless, many African students are taught standard ways that don't encourage creativity. Educating future business owners shouldn't be limited to business school students. Engineering, agriculture, healthcare, and technology must complement the sector. So, more of them across disciplines will have the ability to innovate solutions to Africa's toughest issues.

Conclusion

We mentioned various ways business schools might help African entrepreneurship and innovation. They can solve its biggest issues, such as economic stagnation. It's not an easy step to overcome. People must work hard and don't lose motivation. And in this country, it is often the case. With the right mentality, everything will be fine. Results won't come by themselves. Time and patience are crucial for Africans to succeed in this. When all pieces unite, business creations will be magnificent. We are assured of that!
Obuasi Municipal recorded zero cases of maternal mortality in the year 2022. This was disclosed by the Acting Municipal Health Director Yaa Manu at an annual performance review meeting held in Obuasi.

Maternal mortality remains a challenge in providing quality maternal and other reproductive healthcare services in Ghana.

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) in 2021 launched a year-long campaign to reduce considerably the spate of maternal mortalities across the country in line with achieving Goal 3 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Currently, Ghanas maternal mortality ratio (MMR) stands at 308 per 100,000 live births which is way below the SDG target of less than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.

The feet chalked by the Municipal Directorate in maternal mortality is commendable according to Ms Yaa Manu stressing that it was as a result of hardwork and professionalism on the part of midwives in the Municipality.

She added that Midwives in the Municipality were sent to Kumasi last year to be trained in order to address pertinent issues facing healthcare delivery.

" Now, the Obuasi Government Hospital has a newly built Maternity ward with installed modern equipment by Anglogold Ashanti. All these contribute to the enhancement in healthcare delivery in Obuasi ".

She however said the records on still births for last year was not encouraging hence assured that the directorate will continue to provide in-service training for the Midwives especially the new ones to also learn from the experienced ones.

Annual Excellence Award

The Health Directorate seized the opportunity to recognize its hardworking personnel and institutions for the year 2022.

Below are the list of the winners;

1.Best CHPS compound (Adaase Chips compound). They received 32inches Samsung tv and citation.

2 Best performing health center(Central market health center). They took home a Refrigerator and a citation)

3.Best performing staff Second runner up ( Betty Agyarko). She received citation and cash

4. Best performing staff first runner up (Mubarik Anyingi). For his prize, he was given a citation and cash.

5.Overall best performing staff ( Farouk Umar Apord Karim). He received cash award.

6. Leadership award went to Helena Agyeiwaa Mensah. She went home with a citation, cash and blender.
26.02.2023 LISTEN

The immediate past Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ghana Cylinder Manufacturing Company Limited (GCMCL), Madam Frances Ewurabena Essiam has said the Minister for Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) is not fit to partner Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia as a running mate should the latter be elected flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

In an interview on UTV News Ewurabena Essiam insists that Dr. Opoku Prempeh is unfit to be a running mate especially on the ticket of the NPP.

NAPO cannot be a running mate, these are all the issues that will be coming up during my press conference, so lets hold on for now, she told the news anchor.

Frances Essiam further revealed that she resigned from her post because of the actions of the Minister for Energy, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh.

We can confirm that Frances Ewurabena Essiam and Dr. Opoku Prempeh have been at loggerheads over an agreement between the GCMCL and the Ghana Gas Company for the construction of a new gas processing plant.

It is also clear that Dr Opoku Prempeh wanted Genser Energy to establish a new gas processing plant instead of the state-owned Ghana National Gas Processing Company.

Madam Essiam narrated how she worked hard to put the GCMCL on a growth trajectory and how NAPO and his cabals want to take over the company from her.

She explained that the unwarranted interference from the Energy Minister is what led her to resign from the company before President Akufo-Addo appointed Madam Genevieve Sackey as the new Chief Executive Officer of the company.

We decided to expand the company and because we do not have the means for the expansion, another state-owned company agreed to help us with it. The company was going to take over the acquisition so that our workforce will be saved and we have already acquired the land for the expansion.

"The minister does not want the state agency to acquire the company, he wants another state agency to. And I also dont agree so I have to resign so NAPO will take the company, she stated angrily.

Some political watchers believe the fight between the two top NPP members is far from over as Frances Essiam has threatened to reveal all the diabolical agendas orchestrated by NAPO against other potential running mates that the Vice President is allegedly considering should he become the flagbearer of the elephant party.

More to come...
The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Jean Mensa, and the Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority, Kenneth Attafuah, are expected to appear before Parliament on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, to brief the House on the commissions proposed Constitutional Instrument (CI).

Due to Madam Mensas absence from the House, the Minority in Parliament objected to the briefing by EC officials last Thursday.

The ECs CI is attempting to use the Ghana Card as the primary document for voter registration in the upcoming general elections.

The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, announced that the EC Chairperson, Jean Mensa, will appear before the legislators on Tuesday.

The EC officials had established contact with the Chairperson, who had agreed to come down for us to have the committee of the whole meeting, but she delayed because the Minority MPs were picking up their parliamentary forms. So on Tuesday, she will appear, and we will continue with the committee of the whole meeting.

Parliament has denied reports that a Constitutional Instrument seeking to make the Ghana Card the sole document registration document for elections has been passed.

A statement by the Public Affairs Directorate of Parliament explained that the House only held pre-presentation discussions on the CI, to collect input from relevant sources for the drafting of the Constitutional Instrument (CI).

The attention of Parliament Ghana has been drawn to a report in the Ghanaian Times alleging that Parliament has passed a Constitutional Instrument (CI) to adopt the Ghana Card as the sole registration document.

Parliament states categorically that it has not passed any such instrument. In any case, Parliament does not pass Constitutional Instruments.
Actor cum Politician, John Dumelo has declared his intention to contest the Ayawaso West Wuogon primaries of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) the second time.

In a tweet on Sunday, 26 February 2023, the actor said: After an extensive consultation with my God, my family and our party faithfuls in Ayawaso West Wuogon! Thiss the second coming.

The actor contested the NDC primaries prior to the 2020 general elections and won.

He, however, lost the main elections to the governing New Patriotic Partys (NPP) Lydia Seyram Alhassan.

Ms Alhassan, who was then the incumbent polled 39,851 votes, while first timer, Mr Dumelo polled 37,778 votes.

Source: classfmonline.com
Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is urging the Paris Club, the creditor-nations group to hasten the process of establishing Creditor Committee for Ghana for the countrys debt restructuring.

She fears that any delay in forming the creditor Committee by the G20 countries will affect the country's stability.

According to her, the Creditor Committee is needed to reorganize its external debt of GHC382 billion ($29.1 billion).

It is now critical to complete Zambia's debt restructuring, establish a Creditor Committee for Ghana, and advance work with Ethiopia, the IMF boss made the appeal at the first meeting of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in Bengaluru, India.

A creditor committee will enable Ghana to formally seek financial assurances from bilateral creditors and gauge their willingness to engage in debt restructuring negotiations.

This is because Ghana is reorganizing its total public debt, estimated at GHC575 billion as part of efforts to secure a $3 billion bailout from the IMF as it has recently completed a Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

The IMF boss appeal comes a day after the German Ambassador to Ghana, Daniel Krull highlighted some of the conditions needed to be met by Ghana before Paris Club members would agree on a debt relief package.

According to him, the country's bailout request with the IMF would be in jeopardy unless China agrees to a joint debt relief package.

The Big elephant in the room is China. China is the largest creditor to Ghana and so far it is not supportive of setting up of a creditors' committee, where the creditors will sit down and agree on an aid package for Ghana, the German diplomat said during the press engagement.

China is Ghana's biggest bilateral creditor with $1.7 billion of debt, while the country owes $1.9 billion to Paris Club members.

Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta last week postponed a visit to Beijing for debt relief talks due to the National People's Congress of China program.

DGN online
The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has issued a statement to explain why its chairperson Jean Mensa was unable to honour the invitation from Parliament last week.

In a statement, the EC has indicated that at the time the invitation was sent, its boss had already travelled to Nigeria on the invitation of ECOWAS.

The EC received a letter from Parliament on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, inviting the Commission to brief the leadership of the House on the draft CI on the registration of voters on Thursday 23 February 2024.

At the time the chairperson had traveled to Nigeria at the invitation of ECOWAS/ECONEC for a peer exchange and election observation mission, the part of the EC statement on Monday, February 27, said.

The EC further notes that it was surprised when its Deputy Dr. Bossman Asare and other Directors were turned away when they visited Parliament to represent Jean Mensa.

That notwithstanding Dr. Bossman Asare Deputy Chair for Corporate Service attended the meeting together with other directors of the commission.

Surprisingly, the meeting was canceled as the Minority side insisted on the presence of the EC Chairperson at the meeting, the EC statement added.

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission has stressed that contrary to the news item that the EC chair has returned to Ghana, the chairperson is still in Nigeria.

The EC indicates that contrary to allegations, Jean Mensa understands the importance of the institution of Parliament having worked with Parliament for two decades prior to her appointment as Chairperson of the EC.

The statement adds that the Chairperson upholds the institution of Parliament and will therefore not disrespect it in any way.

The fact remains that the invitation from Parliament was sent a day before the meeting at a time the chairperson was out of the jurisdiction. Had she been aware of the request prior to her travel she certainly would have prioritized the meeting and attended upon the Honourable House, the statement emphasised.
Ghana Education Service (GES) says it has come to its attention that some heads of second-cycle institutions are issuing unapproved prospectuses and also selling some of the items on the prospectus to Form One students.

It also noted that some heads are selling free items that are supplied by the government to the student.

The GES said it takes strong exception to this development.

It said that the practice is prohibited and must cease with immediate effect.

Investigations will soon commence into the issues to ensure that the right things are done in our schools. Heads of Second Cycle Schools are, therefore, cautioned to stick to the approved harmonised prospectus for students.

Any Head of School caught demanding any item(s) aside the approved ones will be severely sanctioned, the GES said in a statement on Monday February 27.

3news.com
Director of Communications for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) Mr Richard Ahiagbah has said the proposed Constitutional Insurtement (CI) that is seeking to make the Ghana Card the sole identification document for voter registration ahead of the 2024 general elections will help boost public confidence in the work of the Electoral Commission (EC) if passed by Parliament.

He also said that the C.I will scale up the verifiability of voters in the 2024 elections.

The EC did nothing wrong in 2020, Asiedu Nketiah confirmed it in open Court. What the EC is doing with the C.I is to boost public confidence in its work and ensure increased verifiability of voters in the 2024 elections. The issuance of NIA cards can be resolved, he tweeted.

The Minority have been raising issues against the proposed CI.

On Thursday, February 23, they rejected officials from the EC and the National Identification (NIA) who were in Parliament to brief the House on the proposed CI.

They were expecting Madam Jean Mensa herself to appear.

The Member of Parliament or Tamale South Haruna Iddrisu said that the Minority are opposed to any move by the EC to use the Ghana Card as the sole identification document for voter registration.

He says any such move by the EC will hurt the right to vote and be voted for.

Speaking on the Big Issue via telephone on TV3 Monday, February 27, the former Minority Leader indicated that there are 3.5million people who are without Ghana Card.

He questioned whether the EC is going to deny all these 3.5 million people from exercising their right to vote because they do not have a Ghana Card.

There is the right to vote and be voted for, the NDC will defend that right, he said.

We are contesting the use of Ghana Crad as the sole reference for purposes of getting registered as a voter, he said.

He stressed the right to vote and be voted for is sacred. 3.5 million people don't have the card, can you tell these 3.5 million persons not to vote?

The EC explained the circumstances that led to the inability of the chairperson to appear in Parliament herself.

A statement issued by the Commission on Monday, February 27 said The EC received a letter from Parliament on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 inviting the Commission to brief the leadership of the House on the draft CI on the registration of voters on Thursday 23 February 2024. At the time the chairperson had traveled to Nigeria at the invitation of ECOWAS/ECONEC for a peer exchange and election observation mission. That notwithstanding Dr Bossman Asare Deputy Chair for Corporate Service attended the meeting together with other directors of the commission.

Surprisingly, the meeting was canceled as the Minority side insisted on the presence of the EC Chairperson at the meeting. We wish to state that contrary to the news item that the EC chair has returned to Ghana, the chairperson is still in Nigeria. She has not returned to Ghana.

The EC added The Commission, especially its chairperson understands the importance of the institution of Parliament having worked with Parliament for two decades prior to her appointment as Chairperson of the EC.

The Chairperson upholds the institution of Parliament and will therefore not disrespect it in any way.

The fact remains that the invitation from Parliament was sent a day before the meeting at a time the chairperson was out of the jurisdiction. Had she been aware of the request prior to her travel she certainly would have prioritized the meeting and attended upon the Honourable House.

3news.com
Lady Justice Imani Daud Aboud, President of the African Court on Human and Peoples Rights has stated that African governments needed to do more if the Member States, are to benefit from the very rich jurisprudence of international and regional human rights bodies, including the African Court.

She outlined some of the things which needed to be done which include the need for Member States to recognize the very important role of the African Court in the realization of the objectives of the African Union and Agenda 2063.

Lady Justice Aboud was speaking at the opening of the 2023 African Court Judicial Year in Arusha, Tanzania which has been made available to the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) in Tema.

The African Court President also tasked Member States to put in place concrete measures at the supra and well as national levels to monitor the implementation of decisions from international bodies.

These measures may include but not limited to the appointment of focal points, making such decisions directly implementable at the domestic level, she said.

Lady Justice Aboud also noted the need for very wide dissemination of judgments of international human rights bodies and training for lawyers and magistrates/judges on the possibility of incorporating such judgments before domestic systems.

There is the need to provide technical assistance to Member States that may be willing but not able to undertake the necessary reforms to be able to implement or incorporate Court decisions.

To this end, the African Court calls on the African Union, in particular the Specialised Technical Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs, to urgently finalize consideration of the Framework Document on Compliance and Monitoring of Court Judgments, which provides for the establishment of a Human Rights Fund to facilitate technical assistance, she said.

Dr. Philip I. Mpango, Vice President of Tanzania has also tasked the African Court to address what it terms as some hiccups in order for it to be relevant in the African context.

The Tanzanian Vice President revealed that it has been a concern of some African Union Member States that, the African Court encroaches on their sovereignty by operating as an Appellate Court to adjudicate issues that are not under its jurisdiction.

Dr. Mpango noted: It is also a concern of some Member States that some judgments and orders of the African Court are drawn without having due regard of the African context as a result of which most of them remain unimplemented.

Worse still, some Member States have withdrawn their Declarations and others are hesitant to make and deposit theirs.

To address these anomalies, Dr. Mpango called on the African Court to work within its mandate, respect the sovereignty of Member States, and appreciate the diversity of legal processes across the continent.

As part of the broader measures to address the problem, I would also encourage the President of the African Court to continue with efforts to engage Member States to discuss challenges that affect the implementation of the African Continental Courts mandate, he said.

Notwithstanding the challenges, the Tanzanian Vice President also commended the African Court for working tirelessly to continue the intergenerational dialogue through various initiatives.

He mentioned in particular the facilitation of academic placements and internships for young professionals; continued engagement with legal professionals from Member States and their training on the work of the African Court.

This indeed has had a tremendous impact on the visibility of the Court in the Continent while promoting and protecting human rights, he said.

Dr. Mpango noted: I firmly believe that it is through dialogue between the African Court and the Member States that its intended objectives can be realised.

I wish to reaffirm that Tanzania remains committed to the mandate, objectives of the African Union, and the implementation of Agenda 2063. We are committed to building strong African Institutions including the African Court.

The Tanzanian Vice President described the theme of the 2023 African Court Judicial Year integrating the jurisprudence of regional and international human rights mechanisms into national systems, as extremely relevant.

Dr. Mpango noted that national systems vested with the responsibility to protect and promote human rights had always sought inspiration from national and supranational bodies with shared values and principles in the dispensation of justice.
Hon. Haruna Iddrisu

27.02.2023 LISTEN

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu has explained why the Minority in Parliament has reservations about the Electoral Commissions decision to introduce a new CI ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Under the new CI, the EC is seeking approval from Parliament to make the Ghana Card the only source of identification for the compilation of a new Voter Register.

According to Haruna Iddrisu, this has the potential of disenfranchising some 3.5 million Ghanaians who are yet to secure their Ghana Cards.

Speaking to TV3 in an interview on Monday, February 27, Haruna Iddrisu stressed that the NDC will not sit aloof for the CI to be passed but will fight to protect the right of every eligible voter.

There is the right to vote and be voted for, the NDC will defend that right, he said.

We are contesting the use of Ghana Card as the sole reference for purposes of getting registered as a voter, the Tamale South MP noted.

The former Minority Leader of Parliament further questioned, the right to vote and be voted for is sacred. 3.5 million people dont have the card, can you tell these 3.5 million persons not to vote?

Last week, Parliament invited the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Mensa to Parliament to answer questions on the New CI but she was unable to honour the invitation.

This according to a statement from the EC is because she had already travelled to Nigeria at the time the invitation was received.

She is expected to go before Parliament as soon as she returns to Ghana from the trip.
A half-naked woman and her boyfriend have attacked a street preacher at Adum-PZ in the Kumasi Metropolis of the Ashanti Region for preaching against fornication.

It took traders around the area to save the street preacher from the enraged partners who pounced on the pastor to assault him physically.

The sad incident occurred on Monday, February 27, 2023 after the preacher reportedly said "men who engaged in fornication will have no savings in future."

Some eyewitnesses who spoke to this reporter said the comment did not go well with the woman and her partner who were passing at the time.

The provoked duo attacked the preacher with claims that he was referring to them.

The preacher, Kwaku Marfo, who was forced to cut short his work on early Monday morning spoke to OTEC News', "All I said was that a young coconut seller at Accra ended up with nothing after spending all his money on women.

"I quoted Proverbs 6:26 to support my point that, men who spend their time and money on women will have nothing at the end of the day, and unexpectedly the two attacked me.

"I dont know them, and so never mentioned their name or described them in my preaching so I am surprised why they had to attack me."
A coalition of Individual bondholders groups made up of the pensioner Bondholders Forum, the Individual Bondholders Association of Ghana and the Individual Bondholders Forum has called on Finance Ministry to demand the payment of matured bonds that were not tendered under the domestic debt exchange programme (DDEP).

The government has failed to honour coupon and principal payments that matured on the 6th and 20th of February, although the Finance Minister promised to pay on February 21 after the settlement period of the DDEP.

A member of the coalition, Dr Adu Anane Antwi speaking to Citi News said the government has had enough time to compile the list of those who didnt tender in their bonds for the debt exchange for them to be paid.

He added that the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta has failed to communicate why their matured bonds have still not been paid despite his assurances.

The only thing that the government has to do now is to pay. You recall the minister promised that the government was going to pay on the 21stnow we have about six days gone and we are now on the 27th and so we have to come and we havent heard a word from the Minister as to why those payments havent been made, Dr Adu Anane told Citi News Charles Kumi.
(Congo Town, Liberia): The Revolutionary National Youth League of the ruling Congress for Democratic Change in Liberia and the Youth League of the ruling African National Congress in South Africa are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to foster Pan-African solidarity and promote political exchanges and collaboration between the two parties.

On Friday, February 24, 2023, a zoom meeting was held among executive members of the two institutions. In the meeting, a draft MOU, written by the CDC Youth League and endorsed by the ANC Youth League, was discussed, and executives of the two parties youth leagues focused on how they could collectively work together to achieve several youth-driven initiatives in Liberia and South Africa.

This was disclosed by Emmanuel Mulbah Johnson, Chairman of the CDC Youth League, who is leading throngs of young people in the ruling political party in Liberia. In a bilateral zoom meeting with ANC Youth League's National Convener Nonceba Mhlauli and senior executives on Friday, Chairman Johnson said the agreement, when signed, will enable the two parties youth leagues to consolidate relations, and work together in exploring new ways to enhance friendship.

The draft Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is historic, in terms of symbolism and substance. It binds the two parties youth leagues to an intensive negotiating process whose ultimate goal is to promote Pan-African solidarity, friendship, and collaboration between the two parties. Although it is a preliminary rather than a final document, the draft MOU sets out a vital framework, under which substantive negotiations will take place.

When officially signed, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will eradicate youth unemployment, which is global phenomenon, and deal with the high rates of substance abuse among youth, thereby leading to empowerment and development. It will also focus on areas like education for the enlightenment of the youth of both parties and unlock economic opportunities that will benefit the two countries.

ANC Youth League National Convener Nonceba Mhlauli has expressed her institution's commitment to working with the CDC Youth League to achieve this partnership between the two parties. Both the CDC Youth League and the ANC Youth League have agreed to enroll some of the brightest minds in the CDC into the OR Tambo School of Leadership and attend the ANC Youth Leagues upcoming congress in South Africa in the coming months.

The South African Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Liberia, H.E. Professor M. Igbal Jhazbhay, was part of the zoom dialogue.
Sunday's shipwreck off Italy's southern coast  which claimed the lives of at least 60 people including many children  has prompted calls for the EU to show responsibility and humanity in taking concrete measures to deal with migrants crossing the Mediterranean.

Rescue crews were on Monday continuing their search by sea and air for the dozens of people believed still missing from Sunday's shipwreck off the Calabrian coast.

Sixty bodies have been recovered so far, including around 20 children.

At least 80 people survived the shipwreck, but dozens are feared dead given survivor reports that the ship, which set off from the Turkish port of Izmir last week, had 170 people on board.

Italian firefighters put the figure at closer to 200.

Most of the migrants were from Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan.

Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, who has spearheaded Italy's crackdown on migration, visited the scene on Sunday and met with local officials in Crotone.

At a news conference he insisted the solution was to put an end to migrant crossings at their origin.

I ask myself how it's possible that these crossings are organised, pushing women and children to make the trips that end up tragically dangerous, he said.

Matteo Salvini's Lega Nord and PM Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party are insisting on the need to block the departures of illegal migrants.

But Simona Malpezzi, senator with the Democratic Party, told RFI that without a common European policy, it will not be possible to face the painful subject of immigration.

Italy's President Sergio Mattarella has asked the EU to finally take responsibility for governing the migration phenomenon to take it out of the hands of human traffickers.

Increasing risk of death

The shipwreck came shortly after Italy's parliament adopted legislation limiting humanitarian action to one rescue operation in the central Mediterranean at a time.

Rescue boats are being assigned to ports of disembarkation along Italy's northern coasts, rather than exclusively in the south closer to rescue zones.

NGOs and centre left parties say the new measures, pushed by Italy's right-wing coalition, are increasing the risk of deaths in the Mediterranean.

The rescue ship Geo Barents, operated by French NGO Doctors without borders (MSF), has been detained by Italian authorities for the last four days.

What we see in Europe, whether at sea or at borders, is that we are building walls, said MSF coordinator Caroline Willemen.

We are always looking for other ways to make it more difficult for people to flee areas, but that is exactly what is leading to this kind of tragedy, she told RFI.

Redoubling of efforts

On Sunday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen called for a redoubling of efforts to deal with the problem.

The resulting loss of life of innocent migrants is a tragedy, she said.

She underlined the importance of the Pact on Migration and Asylum and the Action Plan on the Central Mediterranean.

The Pact was presented by von der Leyen's Commission in September 2020 and is due to be implemented in the spring of 2024.

It would require asylum seekers to make their claims in the first EU country they enter with the aim of speeding up the process and sending back more quickly people whose claims have little chance of suceeding  notably those coming from countries the EU considers safe.

But the Pact is currently stalled, with so-called "frontline" countries such as Malta, Cyprus, Greece and Italy where the majority of migrants arrive viewing it as weighted against them.

To help relieve the pressure, the Pact includes a solidarity mechanism to spread out asylum requests across the bloc.

But eastern European countries such as Hungary and Poland refuse to be forced into taking quotas.
Violence against African women and the widespread violation of their basic human rights is shaped by societal and cultural barriers. In Nigeria, women's rights appear to be protected. The country is a signatory to many international conventions and norms such as the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women and the Solemn Declaration on Gender Equality in Africa . Yet this protection is mostly on paper.

In a recent book chapter about African women in politics, I've noted that an African woman is too commonly labelled by her marital position as a wife of an African man. She is seen as an appendage of that man, a mere shadow.

But this has not always been the case. History tells us that there have been many great African women who rose to leadership and pioneered innovation. In Nigeria, activists like Funmilayo Ransome Kuti and Margaret Ekpo come to mind. History professor Bolanle Awe is another.

Yet the subjugation of women's rights, interests, benefits and endowments is a key issue facing Nigeria. When women have opportunities, a country's economic productivity and development is enhanced across the board. Therefore Nigeria's leaders would do well to pay urgent attention to five areas of concern: education for girls, gender-based violence, representation of women in politics, maternal health, and women's economic empowerment.

1. Education for girls

Education enhances the decision-making power of women and imparts the knowledge and skills required to contribute to society. And the right to education is enshrined in section 18 (1) of Nigeria's Constitution 1999. The provision enjoins the government to direct its policy towards ensuring there are equal and adequate educational opportunities at all levels. Education should be free and compulsory for all children of school age.

But in Nigeria there is a large disparity between the education of boys and that of girls. In 2010, the female adult literacy rate (ages 15 and above) for Nigeria was 59.4% while the literacy rate for males was 74.4% . Of more than 10 million children who are out of school or do not have access to adequate education past a certain age, 60% are girls.

Some families, especially in the North East and North West don't want to expose their girl children to abduction and abuse. Some girls are given in marriage at a very young age. About 43% of girls in Nigeria are married before their 18th birthday and 16% are married before the age of 15.

Nigeria has experienced growing abduction and kidnapping of school children , with many girls forced into marriage or impregnated by their kidnappers. At least 1409 students have been kidnapped from their schools in Nigeria since the first incident in the country's latest school abduction epidemic which started in March 2020.

2. Gender-based violence

Women in Nigeria, regardless of demographic factors like age, social status, education, ethnicity, religion, and mental and physical ability, have been subjected to varying degrees of violence .

There is a need for the government to enforce the laws that punish offenders. Nigeria's constitution provides that every individual's dignity should be respected and nobody should be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment. The Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act also prohibits all forms of violence in private and public life, while providing maximum protection and effective remedies for victims and punishment for offenders.

States that have not passed this into law should do so. As at June 2021, only 18 out of 36 states of the Federation had passed similar laws.

3. Women in politics

In Nigeria, only 6% of women are active in politics . Of the 109 senators in the parliament, only eight (7.34%) of them are women.

Nigeria is yet to reach the benchmark by the Beijing Declaration Platform for Action endorsed by the Economic and Social Council of having 30% women in positions at decision-making levels by 1995. Quotas would increase the number of women occupying positions of leadership in governance. This would help to have more women representing their own interests and the interests of the larger society.

Intimidation adds to the low representation of women in governance. In a democracy, all citizens should have an equal say in the governance of the country, and benefit equally from their outcomes. Women have been the targets of violence during elections, to discourage them from vying for positions. They have faced physical, sexual, psychological and socio-economic violence . The government must ensure that political parties provide a level playing ground for all and punish any act of violence against women.

4. Maternal health

Nigeria accounts for over 34% of global maternal deaths. The lifetime risk of dying during pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, or after an abortion for a Nigerian woman is one in 22, compared to one in 4,900 in developed countries .

Government must provide free and adequate healthcare for expectant mothers and their babies.

5. Economic empowerment

More than 18% of households in Nigeria are headed by women. But they often lack access to, and control over, productive resources, and are not recognised as fully participating economic actors. With limited income, it's difficult to provide for their households .

Training, networking and mentoring, orientation and enlightenment, legislative and value changes, financial support and empowerment can contribute to changing this.

Equality and trust

Nigeria's leaders should not relegate women to the background and treat them like second class citizens. Giving everyone equal opportunities enhances trust in government and brings about good governance in the long run.

Damilola Agbalajobi 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 Damilola Agbalajobi, Lecturer, Political Science, Obafemi Awolowo University
27.02.2023 LISTEN

Political Science lecturer at the University of Ghana, Legon, Prof. Ransford Gyampo has offered a piece of advice to National Identification Authority (NIA) Executive Secretary, Prof. Ken Attafuah.

In a statement on Facebook, Prof. Gyampo has admonished the NIA boss to work with his outfit to address all the bad perceptions about the work they do.

According to the Political Science Professor, the NIA currently suffers a severe trust deficit partly because of the perception in the minds of some people. I have personally spoken to that, the Authority seems to be working well in some strongholds and deliberately deficient in other strongholds.

Prof. Ransford Gyampo is of the view that although the perception he speaks about may not make sense to Prof. Attafuah, what he fails to know and appreciate is the fact that conflicts are oftentimes not caused by what is sensible.

I respectfully expect you to work to address such perceptions to deal with the trust deficit. For, eloquence in defense and eloquence in being dismissive only serves to provide a veneer that cover challenges which when not properly addressed, can serve as a recipe for implosion and democratic relapse, Prof. Ransford Gyampo said in his post.

Read the full post below:

Dear Prof Ken Attafuah,

I heard you say on Peace FM this morning that I have articulated a certain weird perception of some people, which to your mind, shouldnt have been articulated. I am quite disappointed. You said this on Newsfile and I thought it was a little indiscretion on your part that I could allow to slide. But you repeated it this morning and that is why I will offer a very polite response, because of the long standing relationship I have had with you, going back to our days at the IEA.

Prof Attafuah, you know the journey one travels to get to the professorial class. We do research and listen to the views of our respondents on issues. Some of the views of our respondents may be weird perceptions, but we dont discount such so-called weird views. We put in recommendations to address such concerns to build trust.

The NIA that you head, currently suffers a severe trust deficit partly because of the perception in the minds of some people I have personally spoken to that, the Authority seem to be working well in some strongholds and deliberately deficient in other strongholds.

This may be factual or inaccurate and as researcher, I only sought to articulate it as one of the factors undermining public trust in your NIA whose activities you publicly defend and whose challenges, you privately share on many occasions.

The perception I articulated may not make sense to you, but what you fail to know and appreciate is the fact that conflicts are oftentimes not caused by what is sensible. They are sometimes caused by mere perceptions.

I respectfully expect you to work to address such perceptions to deal with the trust deficit. For, eloquence in defense and eloquence in being dismissive only serves to provide a veneer that cover challenges which when not properly addressed, can serve as a recipe for implosion and democratic relapse.

I am a Citizen and not a spectator. I will speak my mind about such things that have the potency to disturb our peace. It is in my interest to do so and nothing would stop me.

Thank you.

Yaw Gyampo

A31, Prabiw

PAV Ansah Street

Saltpond

Suro Nipa House

Kubease

Larteh-Akuapim
27.02.2023 LISTEN

The office of the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Nii Ashie Moore has been ransacked by unknown persons.

Reports available to Citi News disclosed that the incident occurred on the dawn of Monday, February 27, 2023, at his office at Teshie, First Junction in Accra.

According to the displaced staff who work closely with Mr. Ashie Moore, a laptop belonging to the Regional Chairman was stolen, and other properties were vandalized.

An accounts officer at the office, Albert Luterodt said the incident came as a shock to residents in the area

and the staff.

We came to work at exactly 8 am today, and we realized the whole place had been messed up. The accounts office and the cashier's office were forcefully opened. They entered Ashie Moore's main office to steal his laptop. They have destroyed everything.

Mr. Luterodt also disclosed that the police have launched investigations into the events.

The Police are looking into the matter. We have not been allowed inside to touch anything. We the staff are standing right in front of the office in shock. We are all worried. Luckily Mr. Ashie Moore tells me he was not around when the thugs came, he added.

-citinewsroom
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has eulogised the late Overlord of Gonja, the Yagbonwura, Tutunba Boresa Sulemana Jakpa, for his unflinching commitment to Ghana's development and growth.

He said the immense role played by the late Yagbonwura in national development, especially the resolution of the Dagbon crisis as well as the establishment of the Savannah Region, would forever be remembered.

The history of our country will never forget his contributions and participation in that successful enterprise, President Nana Akufo-Addo noted.

He was paying tribute to the late Overlord when he led a government delegation to the Jakpa Palace, Savanna Region, for the seventh day of 'Adua' (prayers) in memory of the deceased.

The Yagbonwura, Tutunba Boresa, died on February 5, 2023, at the prime age of 90, and had since been buried at the Royal Cemetery at Mankuma, in the Bole District, in accordance with Gonja traditions

He was enskinned as the Yagbonwura in March 2010.

Before his enskinment, he was the Paramount Chief of the Kusawgu Traditional Area of Gonja, under the skin name, Kusawguwura Sulemana Jakpa.

Tuntumba Boresa Sulemana Jakpa, in his private life, worked with several organisations such as the Ministry of Agriculture, Saba International Construction Company, which constructed the Ghana Foods Distribution Depot in Tamale in 1957, SIMS Construction, Tamale Supplies, a construction firm, Tuffour Construction, among others.

He later joined the 48 Engineers Regiment, popularly called Gas Engineers, which constructed the Kalandan Barracks, Kamina Barracks, and Bawa Barracks  thus the Airborne Force in Tamale.

He also participated in the construction of the Tema Township and Tema Harbor during the rule of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the first President and Prime Minister of Ghana.

President Nana Akufo-Addo described the late Yagbonwura as a great leader, saying he was a blessing to his Presidency.

He donated GH100,000, 20 bags of rice and a bull towards the funeral of the deceased.

The programme had in attendance, the Savannah Regional Minister, Mr. Saeed Muhazu Jibril, Members of Parliament (MPs), Ministers of State, Paramount Chiefs, as well as members of the Diplomatic community.

GNA
Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Paramount Chief of Bawku

27.02.2023 LISTEN

The Kusaug Peoples' Congress (KPC), a Non-Partisan Association for Kusasis in Bawku Municipality and its environs in the Upper East Region, has expressed gratitude to the Regional House of Chiefs for the reaffirmation of Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II as Paramount Chief of Bawku.

The House, in a statement issued by the Standing Committee, after an emergency meeting, emphasised that Naba Azoka II remained the Paramount Chief of the Bawku Traditional Area.

It said Naba Azoka was a member of both the Regional and National Houses of Chiefs and that a vacancy had not occurred to necessitate enskinment of a new paramount chief for Bawku.

The KPC is thankful to the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs for their press release, dated 20th February, for recognising Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II (Zugraan) as Paramount Chief of Bawku and the only chief clothed with authority to enskin chiefs within his jurisdiction, the statement said.

It urged the National House of Chiefs to publicly dissociate itself from the action of the Nayiri.

The statement was jointly signed by Reverend Professor John Azumah, the President of the KPC, Mr Maxwell Z. Agbambilla, and Ms Rodaline I. Ayarna, First and Second Vice Presidents, respectively, and copied to the media.

It recognised the steps taken by the Government to address the action of the Paramount Chief of the Mamprugu Traditional Area and his elders, saying: Although we appreciate the efforts of the Government, led by His Excellency, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo  to uphold the rule of law, there is a lot more to be done.

We expect the Government and the State to ensure that Alhaji Seidu Abagre is arrested and prosecuted. Anything short of that, and any attempt to allow Alhaji Sediu Abagre into Bawku will completely derail the current calm in Bawku.

Kusasis from all over the six administrative districts of Bawku Municipal, Zebilla, Pusiga, Binduri, Garu and Tempane will never accept an imported chief to rule over them, the statement emphasized.

The KPC urged the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to condemn and dissociate itself from comments of the Member of Parliament for the Nalerigu Constituency, Mr Issifu Seidu on the floor of Parliament on February 8, 2023.

Mr Seidu, it noted, stated falsely that there was no Supreme Court ruling on the Bawku Skin, implying there is no substantive Bawku Naba. We expected the leadership of the NDC in Parliament to publicly clarify their position on the issue.

Also, a comment made by Mr Mohammed Murtala, the Member of Parliament for Tamale Central, on a television station, on the origin of the Mole-Dagbane peoples group, where he deliberately sought to exclude Kusasis from the Gbewaa lineage was selective and misleading, the statement said.

It said Mr Murtala knew the Gbewaa Shrine was located at Pusiga, Kusasi territory, that only Kusasis can sacrifice to the shrine. If Kusasis are not part of the Gbewaa lineage, how come they are the sole custodians of his shrine?

It called on leadership of the NDC to publicly dissociate itself from the comments of the two MPs and make the party's standpoint clear on the issue.

The statement called on all political parties to stop playing politics with Bawku and implored the public, especially persons with no knowledge of the people of the Kusaug Traditional Area, to desist from misinformation that could inflame passions.

GNA
The Farouk Aliu Mahama Educational Care Fund (FAMEC-FUND), a scholarship fund set up by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Yendi, Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama, has offered scholarship funds to over 70 tertiary students this year.

The beneficiaries who are brilliant but needy students are fresh and continuous students studying various courses in the tertiary rug of the educational ladder.

Disbursing the funds, Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama said, prior to his election as MP of Yendi, he made a commitment to raise more tertiary students in the Yendi Constituency.

"Since I came into office, I instituted the FAMEC-FUND to support the education of brilliant but needy constituents.

He emphasized that education must be a balanced and accessible to all regardless of ones status in society whether rich or poor, privileged or handicapped or able or disabled."

He said money should not be a barrier to denying any child access to education and that no brilliant but needy child will be left behind in the Yendi Constituency.

"I hold the view that a brilliant child of a peasant farmer in Nakpachei, Oseido or Ngono (villages of Yendi constituency) should have the equal chance to tertiary education as the child of a Minister in Accra will have.

The Yendi Legislator expressed the hope that the support will cushion the families of the beneficiary students in footing their academic user-fees and other educational expenditures.

A beneficiary and a Level 200 student of the Tamale campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS), on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the MP for the kind gesture.

He indicated that the support was not only timely but was also enough to pay the fees of each of them with some surplus funds.

The FAMEC-FUND was launched in 2021 to support brilliant but needy students in the Yendi Constituency.
A man claiming to be an agent for the Ghana Education Service (GES) has been arrested by the Police at the Free Senior High School (SHS) placement centre in Accra.

Deputy Coordinator for the Free Senior High School programme, Nana Afrah Sika Mensah in an interview with Citi News said the young man has defrauded a parent of a sum of over GH1,000 after he claimed he could help get placement for their ward.

She advised that parents should desist from engaging third parties in the school placement process.

As we have been saying all this while, let us all be vigilant. We will not use crooked means to place students in schools. Let us be watchful, she said.

This comes on the back of a scandal that hit the Computerized School Selection and Placement System.

The Computerized School Selection and Placement System has come under scrutiny following allegations that some persons receive money in order to change schools for wards of some parents.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) had earlier cautioned the general public against unscrupulous persons who may likely defraud guardians under the pretext of securing placement for their wards into their supposed preferred senior high schools.

The CSSPS is the only system used by the Ghana Education Service to place qualified Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates into Senior High Schools (SHS), Technical Institutes (TI), and Vocational Institutes across the country.

GES prayed guardians to be on the lookout for such deceitful persons and help report them to the nearest police station for onward prosecution to deter others from engaging in the annual happening.

Management strongly cautions the general public not to fall prey to deceitful persons that may approach them to pay money for a place in SHS. Such persons are to be reported immediately to the Police.

- citinewsroom
France on Monday condemned an attack by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, saying "violence against Palestinian civilians is unacceptable". The remarks came after settlers burned down houses and cars in reaction to the killing of two Israelis in the town of Huwara.

France "strongly condemns" the attack targeting a town where two Israeli brothers were killed, the foreign ministry said in a statement, adding that there was a risk that the situation in the West Bank could "deteriorate out of control".

In the night of Sunday and Monday, dozens of Israeli settlers set homes and cars ablaze in the northern town of Huwara, after a day of Israeli-Palestinian talks in neighbouring Jordan aimed at quelling a surge in violence in the Palestinian territory.

More than 350 Palestinians were injured, most suffering from tear gas inhalation, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said.

The Palestinian health ministry said Sameh Aqtash, 37, was shot dead during an attack by Israeli forces and settlers on the nearby village of Zaatara.

Two settlers killed

The violence came hours after two Israeli settlers, brothers Yagel Yaniv, 20, and Hallel Yaniv, 22, were shot dead Sunday as they drove through Huwara.

On Monday, a photographer of French news agency AFP saw damaged homes blackened by fire, long lines of charred cars, burned trees and smashed windows in the town.

"They burned the cars and the houses and destroyed everything," Huwara resident Diaa Odeh said.

"Whenever we started to push the settlers back, the army was firing tear gas at us," added the 25-year-old.

Wajeh Odeh, a member of the town's municipality, said 30 houses were burned and damaged while more than 100 cars were torched.

Abdel Moneim Aqtash said he and his brother were standing outside a blacksmith's workshop when they were attacked by Israeli settlers.

"They left the area and then came back with the occupation (Israeli) army... The army shot my brother, not the settlers," he told AFP.

The military told AFP that Aqtash "was not shot by an Israeli soldier".

'We want security'

Yoav Gallant, defence minister in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's new right-wing coalition government, said he expected "difficult days ahead" and had ordered troops to be reinforced.

"With this being said, I call on everyone to restore calm... We cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their (own) hands," he said.

The Israeli military told AFP no-one had been arrested over the arson or killing of Aqtash.

The search for the gunmen who fired on the two brothers was ongoing.

The violence came days after Israeli forces launched their deadliest West Bank raid in nearly 20 years, which claimed the lives of 11 Palestinians in the nearby city of Nablus.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's national security minister and an extreme-right settler, said the killing of the Yaniv brothers "must teach us that we are at war".

"I understand the pain but we must not take the law into our own hands," he said.

The West Bank is home to about 2.9 million Palestinians as well as an estimated 475,000 Jewish settlers, who live in state-approved settlements considered illegal under international law.

Esty Yaniv, the mother of the two brothers killed, said "instead of accompanying them to their wedding, we must bury them."

"We love this country, we love the army, we want security, but the responsibility to guarantee security rests solely with the army," she said Monday, in a statement from the Shomron Regional Council which administers settlements in the area.

The Israeli military said it had evacuated dozens of Palestinians from their homes threatened by fires in Huwara.

'A pogrom'

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas' office accused Israel of "protecting terrorist acts perpetrated by settlers" in the West Bank.

Hamas, the militant group which rules Gaza, called on Palestinians "to defend the city of Nablus and repel the settlers' terrorism".

Israeli rights groups B'Tselem and Peace Now said the Huwara attack amounted to "a pogrom".

The violence on Sunday came amid talks in Jordan, Israeli and Palestinian officials reaffirmed "the need to commit to de-escalation on the ground and to prevent further violence".

(With AFP)
27.02.2023 LISTEN

The office of the Greater Accra Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Nii Ashie Moore has been burgled.

The incident happened on Sunday,26 February 2023.

He described it as an assassination attempt on his life.

Mr Ashie Moore who shared pictures of his ransacked office on his Facebook page said this is the third time that has happened to him since the NDCs regional elections.
Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, has upset the apple cart in Nigeria's tightly contested presidential election, narrowly defeating the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Bola Tinubu in his stronghold of Lagos, the country's largest city.

Obi, a former Anambra State governor, polled more votes than Tinubu in 20 local governments in Lagos.

The outsider secured 582,454 votes against Tinubu's 572,606 while former vice president Atiku Abubakar  the candidate for the People's Democractic Party (PDP)  came a distant third with 75,750 votes according to results announced at Lagos collation centre on Monday.

It is the first time since the end of civil war in 1999 that a party backed by Tinubu, governor for the last eight years, has not won the state.

Obi's victory in Lagos is not altogether a surprise. The city is home to many young, educated people with a large Igbo population seen as supportive of his presidential bid.

Tinubu appealed for calm following reports of violence in parts of the state.

The fact that the APC narrowly lost Lagos State to another party should not be the reason for violence," he said in a statement on Twitter. "As a democrat, you win some, you lose some. We must allow the process to continue unhindered across the country while we maintain peace and decorum."

However, Tinubu has won three of the five other states that have declared official results so far.

He came out on top in his south-western strongholds of Ondo, Ekiti and Kwara.

Delays

Abubakar, the main opposition party candidate, took the state of Osun and Katsina  the home state of outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.

A winner is not expected to be announced until at least Tuesday. Following the previous presidential election in 2019, it took four days for officials to declare a victor.

A runoff election will be held if no candidate secures at least one-quarter of the votes from two-thirds of Nigeria's 36 states and the capital city, in addition to receiving the highest number of votes.

On Monday, the African Union observer mission said voting had been delayed in more than 80 percent of polling units mainly because of logistical challenges caused by Nigeria's currency swap programme.

The redesign of the Nigerian bank note, the naira, caused cash shortages nationwide and voters and poll workers had difficulties getting to polling stations Saturday.

Voters in some states had to wait until late in the evening to cast ballots, while in other states the election continued Sunday.

Observers from the missions of the African Union and the West African regional bloc known as Ecowas said that the election was generally encouraging except for isolated cases of violence that disrupted voting in some states.

More than 87 million people were eligible to vote in Saturday's election, in the African continent's biggest democratic exercise.
The Ministry in charge of Finance has issued a press release to provide an update on the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP).

In the press release, it says the newly issued bonds have been settled and listed and will become the new benchmark bonds for the fixed-income market.

Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry notes that the payments of coupons and principals of old bonds will resume on March 13.

in fulfillment of the assurance given by Government to bondholders who did not tender, the Ministry is taking administrative steps to ensure that payments of coupons and principals of the old bonds resumes by 13th March, 2023, the release from the Finance Ministry said on Monday, February 27.

In its press release, the Finance Ministry disclosed that S&P Global Ratings on Friday, February 24, raised Ghana's local currency sovereign credit ratings from selective default (SD) to 'CCC+/C'.

The Finance Minister is confident that the above-stated milestone is further expected to accelerate the engagement with the countrys external creditors.

The Government of Ghana also takes this opportunity to assure our external creditors of their equal importance to the Republic of Ghana. We will, therefore, continue to work together to advance the progress of our external debt treatment, in order to ensure Ghana's long-term macroeconomic stability, parts of the release from the Finance Ministry said.

Below is a copy of the release from the Finance Ministry:
27.02.2023 LISTEN

Originally known as Seth Kusi, but known in the pastoral work as Rev. Christian Kwabena Andrews popularly known as Osofo Kyiri Abosom, says he doesnt believe in the supremacy of Jesus Christ, who is believed by Christians to be the son of God.

The Live Assembly Worship Centers leader claimed Jesus Christ isnt who Christians have been worshipping.

To him, Jesus Christ, whom he described as a mere prophet, isnt the one Christians should be worshipping and believing in but the Father.

Speaking in an interview with Ghanaian media personality Deloris Frimpong Manso on her Delay show, the man of God cum politician asserted that Jesus Christ is now history.

Having made those statements, Delay, who was confused, quizzed, "My issue is, why don't you just accept that you're not a Christian? You have refused to accept Jesus for who he is."

Kyiri Abosom swiftly replied, "Is Jesus your property?" adding that, "I believe he is a prophet. I believe Mohammed is a prophet. They're done with their work and are gone. It's our time now. I am in Ghana. Jesus didn't come to Ghana. He was in Isreal."

The former presidential candidate then posited that there is no heaven and earth as Christians preach, but each individual will receive his or her rewards according to their deeds on earth.

"There's no heaven; there's no hell. It doesn't mean to be evil because you'll reap what you sow. If you do evil, you'll suffer before you die," he said.
The Nigerian election, just as it was predicted, has so far recorded some shocks, particularly in the presidential race.

Since the year 1999, Peter Obi of the Labour Party has become the first party to floor the ruling All Peoples Congress in Lagos state.

The results announced earlier on Monday, February 27, by the Independent Electoral Commission of Nigeria (INEC), declared Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), as the winner in the presidential election of Lagos state.

Mr. Obi pulled 582,454 for the Labour Party against Mr. Tinubus 572,606 for the APC. The People's Democratic Partys Atiku Abubakar came in a distant third in the confirmed results.

He defeated Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, despite being a Lagos native and a former two-time governor of the state.

Following that, many Nigerians, notably a popular Nollywood actress, Beverly Naya, ridiculed the 70-year-old presidential aspirant.

In a post on social media, she reacted to the Labour Partys presidential candidate, Peter Obi, defeating the APCs Bola Tinubu in Lagos state and thanked the voters for choosing the path of change.

Beverly Naya further commended Lagos voters for coming out in their numbers due to the Lekki Massacre that occurred on October 20, 2020, where many lost their lives.

She threw shade at Tinubu, whom many refer to as Sanwo-Olu, saying he must be shaking by now seeing how he was floored in his own corridors by the Labour Party, as it wont be easy for his party either in the upcoming governorship election on March 11, 2023.

Beverly Nayas tweet reads, "Lagosians showed up and showed out; this is for 20.10.20. We didnt forget and will never forget. Sanwo Olu is shaking right now.
Ghanaians seem to have taken inspiration from the ongoing Nigerian elections.

Most citizens have started looking for ways to break the de facto two-party system that has engulfed the countrys democracy since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1992.

The unknown party in Nigerian elections, the Labour Party, which was formed in 2002 and previously known as the Party for Social Democracy (PSD), has rejuvenated with a new face and is whipping the giants in many areas in the ongoing results counting.

Peter Obi, a wealthy businessman with a reputation for frugality, has emerged as a powerful force in Nigeria's presidential election, reiterating the messages of prudence and accountability which an army of social media users amplified.

Young social media-savvy supporters have elevated Mr. Obi to sainthood and are backing his 'small' Labour Party against two septuagenarian political heavyweights in a country that seems to be always on the lookout for a messiah to solve its myriad of problems.

The manner in which he has attracted supporters appears to border on populism, a label he and his supporters would reject, but some of his rhetoric may be encouraging that.

According to some Ghanaians who also want a messiah to solve the nations myriad of problems, they have been looking out for someone they can trust like Peter Obi, who will make the NDC and NPP panic in the upcoming general elections in 2024.

A Ghanaian female humanitarian, activist, and netizen, Sandrah Ankobiah, quizzed on Twitter, "Ghana, who is our Peter Obi?"

Her question received several replies, with many tipping Pastor Elvis Agyeman of the widely accepted Alpha Hour midnight prayers as the one to redeem the nation in the 2024 general elections should he form a political party.

Other names mentioned include Osofo Kyiri Abosom of the Ghana Union Movement (GUM), Bernard Koku Avle of Accra-based Citi FM and Television, Prophet Obinim, and several others.
The President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Monday, February 27, hosted the family of Christian Atsu at the Jubilee House to deliberate on the funeral of the player.

At the meeting, the President assured the family of the late Black Stars player that government will ensure it assists the family to ensure the deceased is given a befitting burial.

I want the Chief of Staff to make sure we organise a state-assisted funeral for Christian Atsu depending on the date that you the members of the family and the GFA will select.

Everything will be done from the point of view of the government to make sure that he is given a dignified exit. I owe it as my responsibility as President to make sure that that happens, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo said at the meeting.

The President has given the family free hands to settle on the date for the burial of the Black Stars player in accordance with the traditions and customs of Ghana.

However, he appealed to the family of Christian Atsu to liaise with his office to ensure that the date is convenient for him to attend the funeral.

The decision as to when the funeral will take place depends on the family. That is the tradition in Ghana. Whatever the decision, whatever date that you chose you should know that the government will stand squarely behind you to make sure that we give him a fitting burial, President Akufo-Addo indicated.

Christian Atsu was confirmed dead on February 18 when his lifeless body was discovered under the rubble of his apartment 12 days after the tragic earthquake in Turkey.

He died at the age of 31.
President Emmanuel Macron on Monday announced a "noticeable reduction" of French troop presence in Africa, where anti-French sentiment is running high in some former colonies.

He was speaking in Paris ahead of a four-nation tour of central African countries from Wednesday, as France seeks to counter growing Chinese and Russian influence in the region.

Macron is to visit Gabon for an environmental summit, followed by Angola, then the Republic of Congo, or Congo-Brazzaville, and finally the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.

Paris has fallen out with new military authorities in Mali and Burkina Faso, withdrawing its troops from both former French colonies after years helping the authorities there battle jihadists.

France still has thousands of troops in the wider Sahel region, including in Niger and Chad, but is seeking to tone down its presence on the ground.

Macron described this as a "reorganisation" of French military presence, rather than a withdrawal.

"The change will happen in the coming months with a noticeable reduction of our numbers and a greater presence in these bases of our African partners," he said.

"We will remain but with a reduced footprint," he said.

"We will do more training, more equipping and better accompanying" of local troops according to their needs, he said.

Some military bases would become academies, while others would become "partner" bases, he added.

They would see a "rise in the presence of their African partners according to goals defined" by these partners, he added.

'Criminal mercenaries'

Alarm has grown in Paris over the growing role of Russia in French-speaking African countries, alongside a Chinese push for influence that has been apparent for some years.

France and its Western allies accuse Russian mercenary group Wagner, infamous for its activities in Syria and Ukraine, of being active in Mali and the Central African Republic, also ruled by France in the colonial era.

Reports suggest Wagner is seeking to implant itself in Burkina Faso, claims Moscow dismissed last week.

Macron last outlined France's Africa policy at the University of Ouagadougou in 2017. By LUDOVIC MARIN (AFP)

In recent months, Paris has also accused Russia of spreading disinformation to undermine French interests on the continent.

Macron on Monday described Wagner as "a group of criminal mercenaries... acting as life insurance for failing regimes or those who seized power by force".

He dismissed the group as only bringing a "security response" to a country's issues, at the cost of "preying on mines, raw materials".

French sources earlier this year said a Wagner delegation had visited mineral-rich Burkina Faso, where a Russian firm already operates several gold mines.

Macron has insisted Africa is a priority of his second mandate in power, and in July he undertook a trip to Cameroon, Benin and Guinea-Bissau.

Monday's address followed a 2017 speech to students at a university in Burkina Faso in which he pledged to break away from his country's former post-colonial policies on the continent of more than 50 countries.

In that speech, he criticised "the crimes of European colonisation" and called for a "truly new relationship" between Africa and Europe.

'Mutual relationship'

On Monday, Macron again sought to distance himself from the past.

"To measure our influence through a number of military operations... or to consider that certain economic markets are rightfully ours because we were there before -- these are things of the past," he said.

"We need to build a new balanced, mutual and responsible relationship" with African countries, he said.

He also said a new bill would be put forward in parliament in the coming weeks towards repatriating more artworks to African countries.

Calls have grown in Africa for Western countries to hand back colonial spoils from their museums and private collections.

French lawmakers in 2020 passed a bill allowing Paris to return artefacts to former colonies Benin and Senegal.

Macron will arrive in Gabon, a former French colony, on Wednesday to attend the One Forest Summit on preserving forests along the vast Congo River basin.

He will then head to the former Portuguese colony of Angola as part of a drive to enhance French ties with English- and Portuguese-speaking parts of Africa.

After Congo-Brazzaville, another former French colony, he will end his trip in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo -- ruled by Belgium during the colonial era -- on Friday and Saturday.
February 27, 2023

Ukraine Open Thread 2023-48

Only for news & views directly related to the Ukraine conflict.

The current open thread for other issues is here.

Please stick to the topic. Contribute facts. Do not attack other commentators.

Posted by b on February 27, 2023 at 16:06 UTC | Permalink

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Nicolas Philibert poses for a photo with the Golden Bear for Best Film for "On the Adamant" at the 73rd Berlinale International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany, Feb. 25, 2023.
Staff Reporter

Richelle obtained a bachelor of arts degree in mass communications from the Far Eastern University in Manila, the Philippines. She was a junior reporter for Marianas Variety from 2009 to 2010, and from 2014 to 2015. In the Maldives, she worked as a news reporter and marketing executive. In her free time, shes a painter, pianist, and mom baker.
SOUTHINGTON  Best Real Estate, a family-owned real estate brokerage that opened last October, aims to live up to the legacy left behind by Serafinos Pharmacy.

Mother and son duo Kelly and Joe Harvey moved their business into the vacant space at 40 N. Main St. in downtown Southington  adjacent to the former pharmacy, which closed in September of 2021.

Lifelong Southington residents, the Harveys have been friends with Ron Serafino for years, who leased them the building when they were in the market to find a space for their realty business.

Since occupying the property Best Realty has seen success, having grown from two to six employees and has received a warm response from the community.

Kelly Harvey, who was a longtime customer of Serafinos, hopes to re-create the friendly atmosphere the pharmacy fostered by inviting the public to visit their office and having an open relationship with the community. To that end, theyve set up a coffee bar in their office for visitors to come in and use.

Ron Serafino was my pharmacist for over 30 years. I watched the people come into his pharmacy, and sometimes just come to visit. They'd sometimes go in just to take his dog for a walk. I feel like we offer the same type of atmosphere, Kelly Harvey said. We tell our friends, family, friends of friends, drop in, grab a coffee chat with us, let's talk. And I have to say when people come in, they are pretty blown away with what we've done with the space and how comfortable it is.

The business aims to get further involved in the Southington community by supporting the Apple Harvest Festival and other events in town.

The new owners worked to renovate the 2,000-square-foot space to make it attractive to passersby and something that would draw in further foot traffic to the area. This coincides with the recent renovation of the old pharmacy space itself by Nataz Restaurant, which sits next door to Best Real Estate.

To be able to be in that space, right next door to where the pharmacy was for so many years, it means a lot to us. We take pride in the location, taking care of the space, and making it look as desirable as possible. Because we have noticed, just from the foot traffic already, people stopping in whether it's other businesses to say hello or to collaborate, Joe Harvey said.

The opening of Best Real Estate follows the opening of Evjen Agency, another small, independent agency downtown, which moved into and renovated a building at 100 Center St. two years ago. Evjen also bills itself as a boutique realtor that puts a greater emphasis on providing a more personable customer experience.

The appeal of the approach, said owner Roy Evjen, is being able to build a closer relationship with the client  catering to their needs rather than by strict parameters set by one of the major real estate chains. Offering a comforting atmosphere also helps people better digest information.

I think people like when you associate things to everyday life  Not necessarily what a company or brand is telling you how you have to approach someone, Evjen said. I think that if you just come at people with a different perspective than what's given to you that everyone has available online, people appreciate that. Everything is out there these days on Zillow and Realtor and Trulia. It's just nice when you give them a different perspective than they can already find online.

Best Real Estate says the centralized location has helped the brokerage grow in a short time, along with their community ties and business acumen.

Kelly Harvey was a real estate regulator for the state of Connecticut for 12 years, and Joe has lived in Southington all his life. Together, they want to bring more people into town and enrich the local area.

It's important to be able to give back to the community in a town that's provided so much for our family, Joe Harvey said.
China to keep playing constructive role in peaceful settlement of Ukraine crisis

09:36, February 27, 2023 By He Yin ( People's Daily

The Ukraine crisis has been kept on for over a year. Its development is attracting global attention.

On Feb.24, China issued a document on its position on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, reiterating its persistent stand and listening to other countries' legitimate concerns.

The document demonstrates China's major country responsibility in standing firmly on the side of peace and the right side of history, in promoting talks for peace, in providing Chinese wisdom and a Chinese approach to the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, and in injecting more stability and certainties to the fluid world.

Since the outbreak of the crisis, China has taken an objective and impartial stance based on the merits of the issue. President Xi Jinping put forward "four points" on what must be done, "four things" the international community must do together, and "three observations" of the crisis, which has played a responsible and constructive role in easing the situation and deescalating the crisis. As Xi puts it clearly: conflicts and wars produce no winner; there is no simple solution to a complex issue; and confrontation between major countries must be avoided.

The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be effectively upheld. The purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, must be strictly observed. The legitimate security concerns of all countries must be taken seriously. All efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis must be encouraged and supported.

China will continue to make an independent judgment based on the merits of the matter itself and in an objective and fair manner, and work with the international community to promote dialogue and negotiation to address the concerns of relevant parties and seek common security.

China's impartial stand and constructive efforts are obvious to all, for which the country has won understanding and support from the international community.

Dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solution to the Ukraine crisis. The crisis has complex historical merits as well as ins and outs. It is a result of the long-term security tensions in Europe, as well as the Cold War mentality and bloc confrontation.

In solving the Ukraine crisis, Ukraine's sovereignty and security should be upheld and Russia's legitimate security concerns should also be respected. Europe's peace and stability should be defended, and the same goes for other countries.

China firmly advocates and safeguards international law and widely accepted basic norms governing international relations, and upholds the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. China will never be a bystander, and would never add fuel to the fire, still less exploit the crisis.

The international community should stay committed to the right approach of promoting talks for peace, help parties to the conflict open the door to a political settlement as soon as possible, and create conditions and platforms for the resumption of negotiation.

In the document China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, China reiterates respecting the sovereignty of all countries, abandoning the Cold War mentality, ceasing hostilities and resuming peace talks. China said it will continue to play a constructive role in promoting peace talks.

The more complex the situation is, the more should a level head be kept; the more protracted the situation is, the more efforts shall be made to achieve peace. China believes that all parties should, following the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security and bearing in mind the long-term peace and stability of the world, help forge a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture.

Xi's solemn proposal of the Global Security Initiative offers a Chinese approach to tackling global governance challenges, eliminating the root causes of international conflicts and achieving durable stability and security in the world. So far, more than 80 countries and regional organizations have commended and expressed support for the initiative.

Recently, China issued the Global Security Initiative Concept Paper to lay out a more systemic approach and more practical measures to address global security challenges. The concept paper raises concrete paths in supporting political settlement of hotspot issues such as the Ukraine crisis through dialogue and negotiation.

In the document China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, China expounds its positions and raises proposals on issues of common concern, such as resolving the humanitarian crisis, protecting civilians and prisoners of war, keeping nuclear power plants safe, reducing strategic risks, facilitating grain exports, stopping unilateral sanctions, keeping industrial and supply chains stable and promoting post-conflict reconstruction, offering important guidance on the settlement of the crisis.

The Ukraine crisis is another wake-up call for all in the world. It reminds people that blind faith in the so-called "position of strength" and attempts to expand military alliances and seek one's own security at the expense of others will only land oneself in a security dilemma.

In this day and age, global and regional security frameworks should no longer be built with a Cold War mentality. The security of a country should not be pursued at the expense of others. The security of a region should not be achieved by strengthening or expanding military blocs. No country has the privilege of having its own way in the world, and any hegemonic, domineering or bullying practices should be rejected.

The international community should jointly oppose hegemonism and power politics, build a new type of international relations based on mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation. It should be clear that the world is a community in which all countries share a common stake, and see that the light of peace will reach all corners of the world.

Making the world a safer place is the strong desire of all people, the common responsibility of all countries, and more importantly, the right direction for the advance of our times.

China will keep holding a just and impartial position, foster synergy in the international community and play a constructive role in promoting the peaceful settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
(Natural News) The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently estimated that more than 43,000 fish and other aquatic animals have died due to the chemicals spilled by the Norfolk Southern train derailment in East Palestine.

ODNR Director Mary Mertz announced on Thursday, Feb. 23, that roughly 38,222 minnows and about 5,550 other aquatic animals such as small fish, crayfish, amphibians and macroinvertebrates were killed in the five-mile span of waterways from the derailment site. (Related: There more hazardous chemicals discovered at Norfolk Southern train derailment site in East Palestine.)

The ODNR noted that on Feb. 15, the number of aquatic animals killed by the disaster was less than 3,000, primarily minnows and small fish, based on an initial investigation of four sites around the train derailment area.

The state agency said it went to the train derailment site the morning after the crash to determine the impact of the chemical spill on aquatic life, to survey nearby waterways for dead aquatic animals and to collect data and specimens to inform the total. The ODNR collaborated with private company EnviroScience to help collect data on the number of dead aquatic animals in the area and to help collect and remove these dead animals from the waters to prevent further harm to any other animals in the area.

Deaths mostly occurred immediately after toxic spill, long-term effects still unknown

The ODNR and EnviroScience estimate that, over the 7.5 miles of land immediately affected by the chemical spill from the Norfolk Southern train derailment, aquatic species living in waterways located within five miles of the site were killed immediately.

Although dead aquatic species still remain in the impacted waterways, the entirety of the impact to the aquatic life is believed to have occurred in the first 24-hours after the derailment, noted Mertz. These small fish are all believed to have been killed immediately after the derailment.

Mertz added that ODNR officers searched for additional dead aquatic wildlife beyond the impacted waterways in the days after the crash. These searches brought officers to the Ohio River down through Jefferson County and at the New Cumberland Locks and Dam, a dam around 20 miles south of East Palestine. These searches did not find any dead aquatic animals.

The director added that the agency is also waiting for test results on non-aquatic animals found near the train derailment, including birds and opossums. The ODNR does not believe these non-aquatic animals were immediately made sick by the derailment.

An ODNR representative noted that there is no immediate threat to the aquatic life in Leslie Run creek, and that live fish have already returned there.

Were happy to see live fish have already returned to Leslie Run, thats a great sign. The fact that were not seeing any fish in distress is a great sign, said the representative.

The ODNR added that it still does not understand the long-term effects of the train derailment, and the representative said the department is still unable to put a timeline on how long it will take for the environment around the crash to fully recover.

Learn more about how the East Palestine disaster is affecting the local environment at Ecology.news.

Watch this clip from Tucker Carlson Tonight on Fox News as host Tucker Carlson talks about the East Palestine residents who have been getting headaches and coughing up blood in the aftermath of the train derailment.

This video is from the News Clips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

EPA ignores resident near Ohio train derailment who says ash from controlled burn of chemicals landed more than a mile away.

Tom Renz: East Palestine train derailment and toxic chemical spill an environmental catastrophe  Brighteon.TV.

EPA chief downplays Ohio chemical spill, says hell allow his kids to drink and bathe in East Palestines water.

East Palestine residents report headaches, anger and burning skin following train incident.

Family left coughing up blood, suffering other health symptoms following massive toxic cloud created by rail disaster in Ohio.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

Insider.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) The Biden regime is moving to hamstring the American medical community even further following the tyrannical measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic and in a way that is extremely concerning to the countrys doctors and primary care providers.

Doctors are speaking out against a new law that arguably paves the way for the FDA to prohibit treatments for purposes it hasnt expressly authorized, going far beyond highly politicized subjects such as treating COVID-19 with ivermectin, Just the News reported this week.

The updated authority to ban off-label uses was included in the 4,155-page omnibus appropriations bill signed into law at the end of the year, but it was only mentioned on page 3,542 and specifically applied to banned devices. The FDA requested this update following a series of court losses, and some experts have expressed uncertainty about whether the agency could broadly interpret devices to include drug treatments, the outlet reported.

The law firm Morrison Foerster credited the revision to a 2021 ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, which prevented the FDA from banning individual intended usages of an otherwise legally marketed device. The case in question involved electrical stimulation devices used to treat aggressive or self-injurious behavior.

But some doctors rightfully do not trust the FDA to refrain from imposing the agencys will whenever and however it wants.

FDA lobbyists got congress [sic] to grant the agency (not practicing doctors) the power to ban some uses of medications, Johns Hopkins medical professor and National Academy of Medicine member Dr. Marty Makary tweeted Tuesday.

FDA gets sweeping new powers in the omnibus appropriations bill. FDA lobbyists got congress to grant the agency (not practicing doctors) the power to ban some uses of medications. Good piece by Joel Zinberg @WSJ https://t.co/lu3nLbLZzT  Marty Makary MD, MPH (@MartyMakary) February 21, 2023

Thats truly arrogant to think that the federal government is the one and only one who knows better than the physicians at the state boards of medicine about what good medicine is or what it isnt, medical device and drug regulatory lawyer Brad Thompson told WBUR.

It may be that the clause is specifically directed to forbidding use of e.g. ivermectin in COVID, for which data are mixed, David Livermore, a retired professor of medical microbiology at the University of East Anglia, told Just the News.

He also described it a disgrace and a dereliction of duty that the National Institutes of Health has yet to properly study ivermectin either as a treatment or a prophylactic for COVID, giving the FDA cover to ban such use potentially, the outlet continued.

The update to the FDAs authority could potentially complicate a lawsuit by doctors who claim that the agency effectively prohibited them from prescribing ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19. The doctors allege that the FDA repeatedly told the public that ivermectin was dangerous for human use and provided false grounds for medical license investigations, Just the News noted.

During a court hearing last fall, the FDA claimed that its guidance on ivermectin was not mandatory. However, the litigants, which include Mary Talley Bowden, a target of cancellation, argued earlier this month in front of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals that the FDA cannot use unlawful means to accomplish its intended goals and then seek to avoid responsibility.

According to the litigants, the 5th Circuits precedent recognizes off-label use as the standard of care in many medical contexts, and federalism constraints prevent the agency from advising doctors on whether or how to prescribe approved drugs, the outlet reported.

The Biden regime is obviously beholden to its COVID-19 religion and wont allow any uses of ivermectin because its much more effective than the worthless vaccines.

Sources include:

JustTheNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Regulators are currently examining the safety of common decongestants due to concerns over their possible connection to two fatal brain conditions, according to a report published this week.

Pseudoephedrine, found in tablets and capsules used to alleviate nasal congestion, is a key ingredient in some popular decongestant brands such as Sudafed, Day & Night Nurse, and Nurofens Cold and Flu. In rare circumstances, this drug can prompt a dangerous response in the blood vessels of the brain, leading to either posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) or reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS), the UKs Daily Mail reported.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK has initiated a review of several over-the-counter drugs that contain pseudoephedrine, a drug used to alleviate nasal congestion. This move follows a similar review by the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

The purpose of the reviews is to investigate potential links between the drug and two rare and life-threatening brain conditions, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS).

The prevalence of the two conditions is so low that there are no reliable figures available. Both conditions involve the brain receiving a reduced blood supply, known as ischaemia, which causes it to swell, the outlet reported.

While PRES can develop at any age from infancy to old age, dozens of studies have found that it most commonly affects adults in their 40s and 50s, and it is slightly more prevalent in women. On the other hand, RCVS is mostly diagnosed in women between the ages of 20 and 50, and is sometimes associated with changes in womens bodies during or after pregnancy, or when starting or changing birth control pills. PRES mainly affects the back of the brain, although it can affect other areas as well, the report noted further.

Doctors are not certain about the underlying cause of PRES. However, approximately seven out of ten individuals with the condition have high blood pressure, which can cause pressure on the blood vessels and subsequent swelling of the surrounding brain tissue, the Daily Mail continued in its analysis of the findings.

On the other hand, RCVS occurs when blood vessel constriction, or vasoconstriction, persists, leading to a narrowing of arteries. This results in reduced blood flow and oxygen delivery to the affected area of the brain.

The report also detailed how the conditions can be triggered:

PRES is linked with a swathe of conditions, though most frequently with high blood pressure, eclampsia, severe infection, kidney disease and some autoimmune diseases. Certain medicines, particularly decongestants like Sudafed and Nurofens Cold and Flu, or immunosuppressants and cancer chemotherapy, are also thought to raise the risk. In rarer cases, it could occur as a side effect of the antibiotic linezolid, scorpion poisoning or after LSD and cocaine use.

Certain prescription medications such as anti-depressants, nasal decongestants, and nicotine patches, as well as head injuries, are among the risk factors associated with RCVS. Blood and intravenous immunoglobulin transfusions, as well as some tumors, can also trigger the condition, the Daily Mail noted.

According to the NHS, common signs of PRES include headaches, vision problems, and seizures, which occur in over two-thirds of cases. Those affected may also experience confusion, weakness in one or more limbs, nausea, and difficulty speaking. The symptoms of PRES typically appear suddenly, within a few hours, and can worsen over a period of 12 to 48 hours, the report said.

A severe headache known as a thunderclap is the main symptom of RCVS and may be the only one. However, other signs can include seizures, vision problems, and weakness on one side of the body. Some people also have difficulty understanding others when theyre speaking and difficulty speaking themselves.

In the vast majority of cases of PRES and RCVS, patients recover from their symptoms. But in some instances, it can be life-threatening, the outlet noted.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Through smart phones, mass media, social media, TV, movies, and advertising, much of what humans think about all day and night is manipulated and controlled. Most purchases and perceived choices Americans make are heavily influenced and even coerced by corporate scripts, sales tricks, persuasive marketing, and complex algorithms. Now, with the development of artificial intelligence (AI), a new age of power and control has landed in the laps of Big Tech, Big Media and Big Government. Robots are beginning to take over the thoughts, actions, and decisions that humans used to make, and this includes for the military, manufacturing, and service sectors of the nation. So then, what comes next? Post-apocalyptic Netflix movie Jung_E features AI militarized clones weaponized against humanity and completely controlled by the evil government.

A new movie aired on Netflix recently called Jung_E, a South Korean science fiction film whose star actor, Kang Soo-yeon, died just before its release this January. The setting is a futuristic, post-apocalyptic Earth, not too different from the Terminator movie series, where technology runs the planet, and humans are forced to live under constant attack from the tyrannical government, called the Adrian Republic, that has weaponized artificial intelligence to clone humans who were the best soldiers.

Futuristic movie Jung_E glorifies artificial intelligence so humans will support their own future enslavement by computers and robots

Pushing the climate change hoax (rising sea levels) and actual planned resource depletion themes, the Netflix movie Jung_E is set in the future year 2194, where Earth and its inhabitants are in complete desolation and under constant attack from the AI technology and forces of the tyrannical regime in control. The so-called allied forces had a legendary rebel soldier, Captain Yun Jung-yi, who sacrifices her mind and body to become a AI military clone, in trade for funds to save her little daughter from dying from a lung tumor.

Of course, the girl lives, and 35 years later has to watch her mother become an AI military clone to help fight the sky-net style forces of the evil government. Emotions run high. Researchers at the AI lab have copied Jung-yis brain data and put it in android bodies. The catch is that anyone who sells their brain and body to the Republic signs off that it can be cloned indefinitely, and as many times as needed. All rights are forfeited, just as the globalists would have it.

The new clones are tortured physically in the labs to make sure they can react to combat casualties and still function. The new clones are also abused and used as sex toys by humans in the movie.

Hollywood and the Globalists want everyone to support AI-everything to destroy the Republic and control the populace once and for all

Artificial systems and products target the weak, the naive, and the controllable masses. Today, we are seeing this develop across all spectrums, from media (think search engines and censoring of conservative and liberty-minded voices) to food, medical equipment, viruses, and environments. Most of these systems take time off of life expectancy for humans. Artificial immunity is coming from the Covid gene-mutating injections (vaccines), that weaken the patients immune system further with each jab and booster.

Artificial food is being promoted heavily, where fake food stuff and junk science meat is created in laboratories that causes cancer is and is void of nutrition. Genetically modified crops are given genes from poisonous insects and toxic plants, and CRISPR technology removes gene segments to mutate other crops and produce. Artificial medicine is being made using snake venom that causes horrific side effects in humans.

Work environments are often artificial, where people are forced to work virtually all day, and students stare into a smart device to get a warped and useless education. Other humans work surrounded by cement walls, carpeted floors, and no windows, where they breathe in chemical pollutants and do medial jobs that robots will soon take over.

Self-driving cars are crashing right and left. Pace-makers are being installed in peoples hearts that have been ruined by the Covid clot shots. In some countries, people are already letting their rogue governments install micro-chips in their wrists and hands so they can access buildings, rooms, and pay for their groceries without cash or credit card.

Keep your truth news in check by adding Preparedness.news to your Favorites list and tuning in daily for updates on real news about the surviving and thriving in the near future, where peoples minds and bodies are completely controlled by the government.

Sources for this article include:

Censored.news

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Even though state and federal officials have been saying for weeks now that the water in and around East Palestine, Ohio, is safe to consume and theres no worry at all, much of it is now slated for transport to Texas because it is toxic and must be disposed of properly, according to a Friday report.

According to a top official from Harris County, home to Houston, the water will be headed to a suburb for disposal.

I and my office heard today that firefighting water from the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment is slated to be disposed of in our county, noted Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo in a Wednesday statement on Twitter. Our Harris County Pollution Control Department and Harris County Attorneys Office have reached out to the company and the Environmental Protection Agency to receive more information about the timing, transportation mechanisms, and contents, as well as to ensure all regulations are being met.

I heard the news today about East Palestine firefighting water being sent to Harris County and will continue pushing for information for our community. pic.twitter.com/lMyJYPtTdT  Lina Hidalgo (@LinaHidalgoTX) February 23, 2023

No further details were given, however, the judge did say that her office is working very closely with the Deer Park, Texas mayor.

I have communicated with Deer Park Emergency Management and Mayor [Jerry] Mouton and am very sensitive to the concerns that this news naturally brings to our community, Hildagos statement noted further. We will keep residents informed as we learn more.

The wastewater is being directed to Texas Molecular, a company that specializes in disposing of hazardous waste by injecting it into the ground. This follows a recent announcement from Ohio EPA officials, who expressed concern that the fire-suppressing chemicals used may have entered the Ohio River, potentially creating a chemical plume that is now flowing downstream, Zero Hedge reported.

Per the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas Molecular is authorized to accept and manage a variety of waste streams, including vinyl chloride, as part of their  hazardous waste permit and underground injection control permit, which includes the chemical vinyl chloride, just one of several that the Norfolk Southern train was carrying when it derailed due to an overheated axle on car No. 23.

Our technology safely removes hazardous constituents from the biosphere. We are part of the solution to reduce risk and protect the environment, whether in our local area or other places that need the capabilities we offer to protect the environment, the company said in a statement to KHOU-TV. The firm added that it will be injecting the water very deeply into the earth, allegedly so that it doesnt seep into local water tables.

This injection, in some cases, is usually 4,000 or 5,000 feet down, below any kind of drinking water aquifer, said George Guillen, the executive director of the Environmental Institute of Houston. The environmental expert says theres nothing for anyone to worry about though the water contains very, very toxic materials.

At a press conference, representatives from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency stated that the chemicals used to extinguish the fires that broke out after the derailment may have infiltrated the Ohio River, resulting in the formation of a chemical plume that is currently in motion downstream.

After visiting the site of the derailment on February 23 (after Donald Trump did), Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg cautioned Norfolk Southern, the railway company responsible for the incident, to follow through on its commitments to clean up the area near East Palestine and assist the town in its recovery efforts, The Epoch Times reported.

During his visit, Buttigieg also met with representatives from the National Transportation Safety Board, who had recently issued a preliminary report on their findings. The Secretary has faced scrutiny for his handling of the disaster.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

ZeroHedge.com
Recent research showed that devastating Malaria could affect and harm the health and population of endangered Apes in Africa, including bonobos.

The study findings were published in Nature Communications.

The researchers looked into the possible impact of Malaria on endangered apes.

Cases of Malaria

The rising cases of Malaria have concerned Africa, especially regarding the impact on health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) records, Malaria is considered a dangerous disease brought about by Plasmodium parasites.

The WHO further report added that malaria cases could be transmitted from mosquito bites.

In 2021, Malaria cases globally reached about 247 million cases. Deaths were 619,000 cases.

Moreover, the WHO emphasized that parts of Africa had the most cases of Malaria.

According to reports, Malaria symptoms include headache and fever.

The report added that people with weaker immunity and access to health could be more at risk of Malaria.

Early prevention and diagnosis are crucial to saving patients from Malaria.

Harmful effects of Malaria on apes

Although the study explained the difficulty of tracking malaria cases in apes, the researchers tried to observe the possible impact on their well-being.

The study aimed to observe the impact of malaria on endangered apes, including bonobos.



Part of the study is to investigate the effect of malaria on mortality risks.

The study findings are also available to read on the Phys.org website.

Furthermore, the researchers explained Malaria could also harm African apes, including gorillas and chimpanzees.

Also Read: Three Endangered African Penguins at Arizona Aquarium Give Hope for Conservation Efforts Against Species Population Decline

According to Beatrice Hahn of the University of Pennsylvania, the researcher emphasized the crucial role of understanding the malaria cases on possible transmissions to humans and apes, especially since their species are considered likely the closest similarities to humans.

Although more studies are needed, the researchers explained that malaria cases had been found in the apes' feces using DNA analysis.

Impact of malaria parasite on Bonobos

According to World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the bonobos' species is known as pan paniscus and is considered endangered.

WWF said that there is about 10,000 to 50,000 population of bonobos. They could reach up to 28 to 35 inches in height. In addition, they can weigh up to 86 pounds.

The report added that bonobos thrive in parts of Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Being endangered, the population of bonobos has suffered from habitat loss and poaching.

According to research published in Nature Communications, there is a growing interest in how Bonobos managed to have a positive sample from the ten sites the study conducted.

The researchers explained that after careful DNA analysis, 38% of endangered bonobos were revealed to get a parasite from feces.

The low cases to the absence of malaria's Plasmodium from the examined sites amazed the researchers.

The report published on Phys.org added that bonobos managed to evade malaria infections.

In addition, the research said that bonobos have immune gene or protective variants that help them from the transmission of deadly malaria.

However, the study added that the possible transmissions could affect the reproductive success among the bonobos' population.

There is also a possibility that the infection could increase the mortality of bonobos.

Ultimately, bonobos show a remarkable way to survive and adapt to potential infection.

Related Article: Florida Rescuers Release 12 Manatees Into the Wild After Conservation, Recovery Efforts

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
The population of endangered Saimaa Ringed Seals in Labyrinthine Shape in Lake Saimaa showed a beneficial and significant improvement after conservation and protection efforts.

With the growing threats against wildlife, the Saimaa Ringed Seals is considered one of the rare species of seals.

However, they are no strangers to threats and possible extinction.

According to the National Parks.Fi, the endangered Saimaa Ringed Seals is Pusa hispida saimensis.

More about the rare Saimaa Ringed Seals in Lake Saimaa

The report explained that the Saimaa Ringed seals managed to migrate to Lake Saimaa in Finland after the considerable ice sheet melt.

National Parks.Fi added that the Saimaa Ringed seals had endured a population decline.

There are about 400 of the said species thriving on Lake Saimaa.

The endangered Saimaa Ringed seals have suffered from overfishing, water level fluctuation, habitat loss and breeding season disturbance.

Ultimately, climate change is the main culprit, bringing them on the brink of extinction.

The report also showed that the endangered seals love to feed on small fish around the lake.

The beneficial role of Labyrinthine Shape and conservation efforts

The research findings were published in the Current Biology journal.

The title is Fragmented habitat compensates for the adverse effects of a genetic bottleneck.

As mentioned, the study highlighted the crucial role of continuous conservation efforts to protect the endangered seal population.

Furthermore, the researchers explained that Lake Saimaa and Labyrinthine topography have contributed to the seals' adaptation and recovery.

In the research, the habitat topography from the lake has helped maintain the dwindling population of the seals.

The study was also reported on the Phys.org website. According to the report, the researchers acknowledged that Finland's lake became ideal for assessing the impact of population fragmentation on species.

However, the growing threat of climate change and habitat loss have affected many aquatic populations, putting them at risk of extinction.

The situation has become more challenging due to human-caused activities affecting the environment.

According to Phys.org, Petri Auvinen and Jukka Jernvall of the University of Helsinki explained that climate change could make it more difficult for the said populations.

Meanwhile, the study published in Current Biology added that Lake Saimaa revealed helpful for subpopulation structure.

Moreover, the researchers emphasized that the seals' small population managed to compensate and thrive in the lake.

The report noted that the endangered ringed seals thrived in maintaining their original genetic variation.

Facts about Lake Saimaa and Saimaa Ringed Seal

According to Lake Saimaa's website, it is considered the largest lake in Finland, offering unique tourist attractions.

Meanwhile, the National Parks.fi added that the Saimaa Ringed Seal is an intelligent sea capable of swimming underwater for about 20 minutes.

They might move slowly, but they are skilled swimmers that catch fish.

Related Article:Three Endangered African Penguin at Arizona Aquarium Give Hope for Conservation Efforts Against Species Population Decline

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News.
A brain-eating amoeba called Naegleria fowleri infected a person in Florida.

Recent reports this week revealed that local health officials have suspected the person acquired it from tap water in the area.

Florida Brain-Eating Amoeba

Officials said that the person in Florida who contracted the brain-eating amoeba acquired it from tap water while rinsing the sinuses in the nose, as cited by Insider news.

The Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County (DOH-Charlotte) stated that the patient acquired Naegleria fowleri in the said scenario.

In spite of the amoeba threat, the department said tap water in the area is still safe to drink.

DOH-Charlotte has launched an investigation into the case, specifically how the infection occurred, and is cooperating with local public utilities to create and implement necessary changes.

Also Read: According to Scientists, a Brain-eating Amoeba Are Rapidly Spreading Due to Climate Change

Naegleria Fowleri

Naegleria fowleri, famously known as the "brain-eating amoeba," can infect people by entering their nose while swimming or diving in water, as well as cleaning the sinuses using tap water, as mentioned earlier in the case of the Florida resident.

According to WebMD, N. fowleri is an amoeba species discovered in 1965 and typically lurks in warm freshwater bodies or contaminated waters, as well as untreated waters like abandoned swimming pools.

The unicellular organism causes a deadly infection and inflammation once inside the body, where it eats brain tissue.

Doctors call the disease as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), which can only be acquired by a person when the contaminated water containing the deadly bug travel up one's nose.

Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis

There are multiple species of Naegleria, but only organisms of the fowleri species causes PAM.

First identified in Australia, experts believed it has evolved in the United States.

Just like other pathogens, Naegleria fowleri is microscopic, ranging from eight to 15 micrometers in size, which depends on its current life stage, Web MD said,

The early symptoms of PAM, includes fever, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms can appear as early as one to 12 days after infection.

The propagation of the amoeba is through cell division, which is dependent on its environment.

N. fowleri becomes inactive cysts when the conditions are not right, but when conditions are favorable, the cysts transforms into trophozoites, the feeding form of the amoeba, WebMD explained.

The amoeba infections are deadly in 97% of cases, since PAM is rare and symptoms develop rapidly, making it hard to treat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Related US Case

In addition, to the latest brain-eating amoeba case in Florida.

Similar cases have been reported in the past, with the CDC saying that a total of 31 infections was reported in the US between 2012 and 2021.

In 2016, a Ohio woman named Lauren Seitz, 18, died after getting infected by Naegleria fowleri.

Reports said Seitz was engaging in a whitewater rafting activity at the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, when she contracted the amoeba.

One of the companions of Seitz, Colin Evans, following the incident told WBNS-TV that he shared a raft with the teenager at that time in the outdoor recreational park, which includes a man-made whitewater river ride, as cited by The Washington Post.

Evans reportedly narrated that "everybody fell out" of their watercraft and helped each other back in.

Atlhough some of them fell in the same spot, only Seitz contracted the deadly PAM infection.

Related Article: Ohio Teen Dies of Rare Brain-Eating Amoeba Naegleria fowleri: 4 Things to Know About this Silent Killer
The final week of February is expected to unload severe thunderstorms, isolated tornadoes, large hail and flooding rainfall in parts of the South.

Motorists and residents should stay updated with the weather as the challenging weather could cause possible power outages and travel delays.

Last week, the National Weather Prediction Center reported troublesome winter storms in the Northeast, Upper Midwest and Southern California.

The significant storms unloaded heavy snow and freezing, resulting in power outages and health concerns.

Isolated tornadoes and large hair in the South

As March comes, the weather could still become problematic for Americans in the South.

The situation could become dangerous, especially the isolated tornadoes.

According to AccuWeather's latest forecast, the weather agency said severe thunderstorms would unfold this weekend, causing damaging wind gusts and potential tornadoes.

Residents in Oklahoma City, Dallas, Little Rock, Springfield and Kansas City should expect severe weather conditions.

On Sunday, severe thunderstorms with rain would unload in Dallas, Little Rock, Wichita and Oklahoma City

There is also a chance of snow in Santa Fe.

The damaging wind gusts from the storms could cause possible dust storms and blow away powerlines and trees.

Residents in the affected areas should stay alert for tornado watches and warnings, especially in parts of north-central Texas.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service (NWS) recent advisory reported that widespread damaging winds would unload in parts of Oklahoma.

In addition, tornado watches are present in Southern Kansas, Western Oklahoma and the OK/TX Panhandle.

The forecasts warned of possible derecho.

According to the NWS, it is a long-lived thunderstorm, with a wind damage swath reaching up to 240 miles.

On the other hand, AccuWeather reported that severe thunderstorms would be noticeable on Monday until Monday evening.

Also Read: Southern California Forecast: Major Winter Storm to Unload Blizzard-Like Conditions, Freezing Rain Late Week

Residents warned of local flash flooding and damaging wind gusts reaching from 60 to 70 mph.

Possible areas at risk are Indianapolis, St. Louis, Louisville and Columbus.

On the same day, the weather forecasts emphasized that the storm would cause slick roads and travel disruptions.

Snow and ice are possible in Minneapolis and Toronto.

Rain and possible thunderstorms would unload in Nashville, Charleston, Cleveland and Philadelphia.

Tornado and severe thunderstorms safety tips

The latest weather forecasts highlighted that the storms could result in road delays.

Meanwhile, the isolated tornadoes could become life-threatening, especially at night.

The American Red Cross emphasized the importance of staying safe during tornado outbreaks.

Here are essential tips for homeowners.

Keep updated with the weather conditions. Residents and motorists should observe the weather before leaving their homes, especially for tornado watches and warnings.

Families should prepare an emergency tornado kit. Tornado outbreaks could cause power outages and inaccessible roads.

The tornado emergency kit should include the following: battery-powered radio, batteries, power banks, non-perishable goods and bottled water.

Related Article: Heaviest Snowfall Unloads in Portland, Oregon; Motorists Stranded Due to Massive Snow

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
Recent weather reports showed that the winter storms in parts of California unloaded snow and heavy rain that resulted in significant power outages and flooding.

Weather agencies monitored the coast-to-coast winter storms that caused concerns for possible road hazards and power outages in the Midwest, Northeast and Southern California.

In the previous advisory, the National Prediction Center explained the developing storm in parts of California, bringing freezing rain and snow.

In January, CNN reported the relentless rain in California that caused dangerous flooding.

However, the rain became helpful in addressing the prolonged drought conditions in the region.

California's rain, snow and flooding

AccuWeather and the Associated Press (AP) reported frigid conditions in parts of California, as snow and rain caused flooding and power outages.

The significant rain and snow in California caused multiple road hazards for motorists.

The AP reported that the Los Angeles Fire Department had to use a helicopter to rescue affected homeless stranded in flood control basin areas.

Furthermore, CBS News said three motorhomes were impacted by heavy rain near Santa Clara River.

The weather update said that no casualties or injuries were reported.

AccuWeather reported that Ventura County recorded flash flooding due to the storm's rain.

Meanwhile, ABC News reported that the winter storm managed to unleash rare snow in California, adding that about 80 million are under threat of wind to winter storms.

Affected residents should observe the weather conditions, especially after the storm.

It is best to look for potential damage to the roof and house.

The devastating storm also raised concerns over hypothermia. Homeowners should ensure to bring their family members to a nearby hospital if they show signs of cold-related health risks.

On the other hand, Reuters said that power outages were recorded in parts of California after the storm impacted significant power lines.

According to Reuters, about 85,000 had no power in parts of Los Angeles (Saturday) after the storms unleashed heavy rain and significant snow.

The forecast in Detroit said about 400,000 had no power (Saturday).

Roads were also affected by the heavy snow and freezing rain on Interstate 5.

Also Read: Isolated Tornadoes, Large Hail to Hit Dallas, Kansas, Parts of South This Week

Meanwhile, the National Prediction Center reported that the West Coast Storm can still unload rain and snow on the West Coast.

The forecasts said Northern and Central California would notice heavy snow and problematic wind gusts.

Blizzard-like conditions are also possible. The forecast advised car owners traveling across West Coast states to bring winter driving supplies.

Possible tornadoes in the South

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported possible derecho or damaging thunderstorms this week.

In addition, a tornado watch is present in parts of Western Oklahoma, Southern Kansas and OK/TX Panhandle.

Motorists and homeowners in the South should keep updated with the weather conditions, especially the severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes.

Tornado outbreaks could become challenging and dangerous, especially at night.

Related Article: Heaviest Snowfall Unloads in Portland, Oregon; Motorists Stranded Due to Massive Snow

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Showers in the morning then continued cloudy and windy in the afternoon. High around 50F. Winds WSW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 50%. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Rain showers along with windy conditions. Low 36F. Winds W at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Higher wind gusts possible.
A doctor found cysts in Lilia Becerril's right breast five years ago, but the 51-year-old lacks health insurance. She said she can't afford the imaging to find out if they're cancerous.

Becerril earns about $52,000 a year at a nonprofit in California's Central Valley, putting her and her husband, Armando, at more than double the limit to qualify for Medi-Cal, the state's Medicaid program for people with low incomes and disabilities. Private insurance would cost $1,230 a month in premiums, money needed for their mortgage.

"We've been resorting to home remedies to get through the pain," Becerril said through a Spanish translator. Her husband has needed hernia surgery for 20 years. "It's frustrating because we pay our taxes, but we can't reap any of the benefits of where our taxes are going," she added.

While many Californians who earn too much to be eligible for Medi-Cal can get subsidized coverage through Covered California, an estimated 460,000 residents aren't allowed to buy insurance through state-run insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act because they lack legal status. One Democratic lawmaker says it's a small but glaring gap and is crafting a bill that could test Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom's commitment to reach universal health care.

"We're going to need to figure out how to provide universal coverage for all who call this state home," said the bill's author, Assembly member Joaquin Arambula. "It's an area our state has not leaned into enough, to provide coverage for those who are undocumented."

Arambula's bill would direct the state to ask the federal government to allow immigrants living in the state without authorization to get insurance through Covered California. Arambula sees the move as the critical first step to expand coverage. If approved, the Fresno lawmaker intends to push for state subsidies to help pay for insurance.

Both elements are essential for immigrants lacking legal status, said Jose Torres Casillas, a policy and legislative advocate with Health Access California, a consumer health group working with Arambula's office on the measure.

"Access is one thing, but affordability is another," Torres Casillas said.

Since taking office in 2019, Newsom has approved expanding Medi-Cal to all qualified residents regardless of immigration status. In doing so, the politician continuously rumored to be preparing for a presidential bid described the state as moving "one step closer" toward universal health care. But in January, Newsom announced a $22.5 billion state deficit and made no mention of new proposals for the state's estimated 3 million uninsured residents.

Newsom's health secretary, Dr. Mark Ghaly, acknowledged the pressure to go further but he would not commit to a timeline.

"Up until now we've had so many other things to focus on," Ghaly said. "This will become, frankly speaking, one of the most important next issues that we take on."

California needs permission from the federal government to open Covered California to immigrants without legal residency because it is currently closed to them, and Arambula said he is in talks with Newsom administration officials about how to structure the bill.

Once the federal government opens Covered California up to all migrants, the state could set aside funding for subsidies. About 90% of enrollees in Covered California qualify for financial assistance, which is paid for with both state and federal funds. Since 2020, the state has spent $20 million a year on those subsidies, a fraction of the cost, because Congress has given states an infusion of money during the pandemic.

Previously, lawmakers had allocated roughly $300 million to lower insurance premiums for Covered California enrollees. Any financial assistance to people living in the state without authorization would likely have to come from state funds, and the costs could vary widely.

For instance, Colorado enrolled 10,000 such immigrants into a new insurance program designed solely for them at a cost of $57.8 million in state funds, said Adam Fox, deputy director of the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative. The program covered the full cost of insurance for enrollees.

In Washington state, immigrants who lack legal status can take advantage of a state fund next year to help all income-eligible state residents pay for insurance, said Michael Marchand, chief marketing officer for the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. State lawmakers have added $5 million to the fund for immigrants without legal authorization.

"It would serve as an incentive for additional undocumented immigration into our country," said Sally Pipes, president and CEO of the Pacific Research Institute, a think tank that advocated against Medi-Cal expansion to immigrants without legal standing. "And put taxpayers on the hook for additional government health care costs and the inevitable higher tax bills to pay for them."

California officials have previously considered allowing all immigrants to buy insurance from its state-run program before, submitting a request to the federal government in 2016. But the state rescinded its application after President Donald Trump took office, given his anti-immigration rhetoric and policies.

The Biden administration in December approved an exception to federal law for Washington state  a game changer in the eyes of immigration advocates, said Rachel Linn Gish, a spokesperson for Health Access.

"Seeing what other states have done and the waivers that are happening under Biden, it makes a huge difference in our approach," she said.

But even if lawmakers pass a plan to open California's insurance marketplace to all immigrants regardless of status, advocates said the state will have to wait until Jan. 1, 2024, to ask the federal government for permission, and it could take half a year or longer to get a response.

That means it could be years before Becerril can get coverage. Instead, she's preparing for the worst.

"I'm paying for funeral coverage," she said. "It's more economical than paying the health coverage premium."
Hong Kong travellers hoping to escape the city for a holiday in Japan or South Korea can breathe a sigh of relief as both countries are set to remove restrictions on flights from the city on Wednesday.

The Hong Kong government on Monday said it welcomed the lifting of the restrictions, which had forced airlines to cancel hundreds of flights in the past two months.

The [Hong Kong government] has been liaising with the Japanese and Korean authorities, and seriously requesting them to rescind all unreasonable restrictions targeting Hong Kong flights, the government said.

The [government] believes that the lifting of the relevant restrictions by the Japanese and Korean authorities can bring more convenience to travellers and help speed up the recovery of Hong Kongs aviation industry, it continued.

Japan restricted the number of inbound planes each carrier could operate from Hong Kong at the end of last December. The Covid curbs had forced the citys flagship carrier to cut some 20 per cent of its flights in January alone. ...continue reading
A mysterious metal orb that washed up on a Japanese beach and caused a stir among locals and media outlets around the world has turned out to be a simple buoy.

The large sphere drifted ashore in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, prompting officials to cordon off the area and don hazmat suits in case it was a dangerous object.

However, after close examination, experts have confirmed that the object is just a buoy used in marine navigation. The Japan Coast Guard released a statement confirming that the object was a navigation buoy for use in measuring the ocean currents, and that it was not hazardous.

Despite the lack of danger posed by the buoy, the objects appearance and its sudden appearance on the beach still raised questions and concerns. When the object first washed ashore, some speculated that it might be an old seaborne mine, while others thought it could be some kind of instrument for spying.

The incident highlights the importance of proper disposal of maritime equipment and the potential risks associated with objects that are not properly secured. In recent years, there have been instances of abandoned fishing nets, plastic waste, and other objects washing up on shorelines, posing environmental and safety hazards. ...continue reading
170 employees across Canada will receive paid time off and join 10,000 Organon employees worldwide in dedicating International Women's Day toward investing in women's health

KIRKLAND, QC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - For far too long, women's health issues have been underfunded, under researched and underserved. Leading up to International Women's Day on March 8, Organon Canada, a subsidiary of Organon (NYSE: OGN), a global women's health company, is challenging the healthcare ecosystem  along with academia, investors, policymakers, researchers and others  to consider the consequences of the growing health disparities that women are currently facing. In Canada, for the second consecutive year, the company is also providing its 170 employees with paid time off to shine a light and speak out in service of making women's health a priority.

Women account for more than half of the Canadian population but according to a survey conducted by the Alberta Women's Health Foundation (AWHF), almost two-thirds of women found it difficult to talk to their primary healthcare providers about their health concerns. In fact, only 24% of women felt their physician is very knowledgeable about gynecological and reproductive health. Moreover, delays in treatment were commonly reported, and where a diagnosis is more complicated or specialized, such as endometriosis, a delay was reported by as many as 85% of respondents. All in all, one in five respondents felt that their gender is a barrier to receiving care1.

To further demonstrate Organon Canada's investment in women's health, the company is also launching a landing page, hereforherhealth.ca, which aims to provide employees with activities as well as tips and tricks for taking care of their holistic health.

"At Organon Canada, we believe in health for every woman, and we are committed to demonstrate our investment to both our employees and partners while raising greater awareness around gender equity through health," said Michael Casia, President and Managing Director at Organon Canada. "This year's International Women's Day's global campaign theme  Embrace Equity  is an opportunity for us at Organon Canada, our government and other organizations to act and adopt gender-specific initiatives to help women achieve equity in all spheres of their lives, including health. Taking these concrete steps will enable us to create a more equitable and inclusive society and ultimately, actively support more positive outcomes for current and future generations of women and their health."

Organon's mission is to support the advancement of care and research in women's health. In pursuit of its efforts to continuously learn more about and understand key health issues, Organon Canada partnered with the AWHF to conduct a survey which explores the impact of taboo topics and seeks to bring attention to gender-specific medical conditions affecting women's lives.

__________________________________ 1 The Alberta Women's Health Foundation, "Surveying the Silence: Exploring the impact in women's health"

"We are grateful to continue our partnership with Organon Canada this year to raise awareness around key women's health issues," mentions Sharlene Rutherford, President and Chief Executive Officer at Alberta Women's Health Foundation. "The culture of silence around gender-specific health conditions has taken a direct toll on women. With Organon Canada's support and leadership, we can truly make a meaningful difference in the name of women's health. Additionally, with further research and awareness, we can collectively reduce the impact of these conditions on the health of women and encourage everyone to play a part in advancing equity, while engaging the support of family members, friends, and community health groups."

Findings from the survey across numerous areas of women's health reveal crucial gaps that impact nearly all stages of a woman's life. For women with endometriosis, painful periods, pelvic floor issues, perimenopause and menopause, between 50-90% of respondents reported significant impacts on their career and personal life. Furthermore:



39% of women reported experiencing menopause. 1



17% of women reported experiencing endometriosis, whose associated symptoms have shown to have considerable impacts on attaining education, work productivity, career choices and success, as well as social life and activities.1

"We want to ensure our employees know that their well-being is a top priority, and as a company focused on women's health, it is our role to demonstrate our ongoing investment in this area and lead by example," says Litsa Spiridonakos, Director of Human Resources. "This International Women's Day, we want to reiterate our commitment to women's health, both inside and outside of our organization, and emphasize the fact that women should take care of themselves today and every day. As part of an internal engagement survey, we've learnt that 85% of our employees feel a sense of belonging at Organon Canada. This happens through action, which inspired us to create dedicated resources to offer suggestions on how women can look after their health and how others can they support the women in their lives, both of which are in line with this year's theme of embracing equity."

To access Organon Canada's resources for this year's International Women's Day, visit hereforherhealth.ca. For further insights and to view additional data from the Alberta Women's Health Foundation survey, visit albertawomenshealthfoundation.org/our-impact.

About Organon

Organon is a global healthcare company with a focus on improving the health of women throughout their lives. Organon has a portfolio of more than 60 medicines and products across a range of therapeutic areas. Led by the women's health portfolio coupled with an expanding biosimilars business and stable franchise of established medicines, Organon's products produce strong cash flows that will support investments in innovation and future growth opportunities in women's health. In addition, Organon is pursuing opportunities to collaborate with biopharmaceutical innovators looking to commercialize their products by leveraging its scale and presence in fast growing international markets.

Organon has a global footprint with significant scale and geographic reach, world-class commercial capabilities, and approximately 10,000 employees with headquarters located in Jersey City, New Jersey.

For more information, visit https://www.organon.com/canada-en/ and connect with us on LinkedIn.

About The Alberta Women's Health Foundation

The Alberta Women's Health Foundation (AWHF) aims to foster equity in women's health, close gaps that exist in research today, and connect pathways from lab to life; all of which advance clinical care at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women and other women's health centres across Alberta and beyond. An initiative of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, the AWHF supports over 160 researchers at the Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI), whose research projects focus specifically on women's health.

For more information, visit the AWHF at albertawomenshealthfoundation.org.

SOURCE Organon Canada Inc.

For further information: Media contact: Organon Canada, 1-450-366-1740, [email protected]
TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - One day each year, we get to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. As diverse groups gather together to recognize the significant and meaningful contribution women have made globally, Estee Lauder Canada will applaude the courage and determination of every woman in communities all across our country. Because for the first time ever, they are launching a Canadian-centric advertising campaign specifically targeted at the ageless female consumer this International Women's Day.

We Are Plenty campaign encourages women to take a moment for themselves at the end of a busy day Tweet this #WeArePlenty, features three incredible Canadian professionals: Leslie Yip (left; a Canadian publisher, radio host and artist. Dr Joanne Kotsopoulos (right); a scientist and professor with a PhD from the UofT, and Annieka Francis (middle); a masters graduate and registered social worker. Featuring their #1 selling Serum, Advanced Night Repair (ANR). (CNW Group/Estee Lauder)

#WeArePlenty, features three incredible Canadian professionals: Leslie Yip; a Canadian publisher, radio host and artist. Dr Joanne Kotsopoulos; a scientist and professor with a PhD from the UofT, and Annieka Francis; a masters graduate and registered social worker. Featuring their #1 selling Serum, Advanced Night Repair (ANR), the campaign identifies a common thread between Canadian women who are juggling multi-faceted pressured lives from motherhood to career to family and back again!

"Ageless women have typically been under-represented in the skincare landscape. The reality of their complex lives demands a multi-faceted serum which Advanced Night Repair addresses with seven unique skincare benefits in every bottle," said Elodie Richard, Executive Director and Brand Lead for Estee Lauder Canada. "Our We Are Plenty campaign encourages women to take a moment for themselves at the end of a busy day for some much needed self-care, and our #1 selling serum with its highly performing properties, lets them do just that!"

"We Are Plenty is a sentiment that recognizes the challenging circumstances each woman faces, while also complimenting their strengths and empowering women to be the best they can be. And to reinforce our commitment, we have partnered with the Canadian organization, Up With Women/Exponenti'elles. A national charity dedicated to assisting at-risk women by helping them build a sustainable pathway out of challenging circumstances into rewarding careers," Richard continues. "Our social media call to action aims to give back to the community by allowing every Canadian to participate and show support by posting on any social platform they choose. What's more, each time they include the tags @esteelaudercanada and #WeArePlenty, we will make a donation to Up With Women /Exponenti'elles."

The iconic Advanced Night Repair "little brown bottle" with the apothecary dropper is legendary. A cult classic from the Estee Lauder brand for over 40 years. ANR, as it is more fondly known, is a staple found in cosmetics cabinets the world over. Launched in 1982 as Night Repair, the serum heralded a new era in skin repair.

#WeArePlenty will officially launch on March 6  in time for International Women's Day on March 8, 2023 across social media platforms, in-store and outdoor with engaging video & display content. The Serum is available at all leading retailers and online at www.esteelauder.ca

About Estee Lauder

Estee Lauder is the flagship brand of The Estee Lauder Companies Inc. Founded by Estee Lauder, one of the world's first female entrepreneurs, the brand today continues her legacy of creating the most innovative, sophisticated, high-performance skincare and makeup products and iconic fragrances  all infused with a deep understanding of women's needs and desires. Today, Estee Lauder engages with women in over 150 countries around the world and at dozens of touch points  from in-store to digital. And each of these relationships consistently reflects Estee's powerful and authentic woman-to-woman point of view.

About "We Are Plenty" Partners

Dr. Joanne Kotsopoulos is a Scientist with the Hereditary Cancer Research Unit at the Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, and a Professor at the University of Toronto. She received her PhD from the University of Toronto in 2007 and subsequently conducted her post-doctoral research training at the Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kotsopoulos is the recipient of numerous awards, notably, a Canada Research Chair in Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Prevention and the Victoria College Distinguished Alumni Award for her unique and interdisciplinary research aimed at helping define novel strategies for the prevention of breast and ovarian cancer among women at high-risk due to an inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. This critical work has provided women and healthcare providers across the globe with evidence-based management options while contributing to our understanding of hereditary cancer. She is also actively involved in the teaching and mentoring of students at the University of Toronto across various stages of their academic careers. Importantly, she is a mom of two busy boys and values time with her family. Together, they enjoy travelling, eating, and keeping active!

Leslie Yip is known as Canada's only fully bilingual award-winning lifestyle journalist, spanning national television, radio, print and digital. Her lifestyle coverage has a quite a following, with fans craving for her candid review of what's hot and what's not. She is voted as Toronto's best loved Vhinese-Canadian female radio personality. She is a choice Master of Ceremony for the community's top event because of her elegant hosting style and fluency in English, Cantonese and Mandarin. As an actress, her proudest moment is when she played Chelsea in the stage production of 'On Golden Pond' in Hong Kong, opposite her mother, renowned actress Sze Kee Lee, and King-Fai Chung, the king of Hong Kong performing arts. Currently, Leslie hosts "A1 Morning Show", Toronto's top reaching morning drive time program, and she is editor-in-chief and associate publisher of eliteGen, a Chinese-English bilingual luxury lifestyle magazine. She lives in Port Perry with her fiance and is a fur parent to three dogs and feather-mom to six birds.

Annieka Francis is a multi-faceted woman who has worn many hats throughout her life. Annieka is a mother, registered Social Worker, author, entrepreneur and community activist. Annieka obtained her Master of Social Work at York University, so that she could apply ethical social work knowledge, critical social theory and advanced social research towards her many initiatives amongst the community. In 2018, Annieka created a NON-profit organization that provides a safe space for marginalized groups of people such as youths at risk and single mothers facing various challenges. This nonprofit organization has speared headed several initiatives over the years including adopting a Abused Womens shelter located in the heart of Toronto, ON. Annieka has partnered with the shelters Executive Board and several local businesses throughout the years to create meal programs, food drives, clothing/supply drives for over 185 families each year, that utilize the shelter for their daily needs. In 2021, Annieka and her business partners were featured on City News for the advocacy work they spearhead in the community, annually. Annieka is also a mother to four boys, married for eleven years and recently opened a Cafe in the Bramalea City Center in Brampton, ON. In her spare time, Annieka writes children novels with four books pending publishing for 2023 and she enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Up With Women/Exponenti'elles is a national charity dedicated to helping recently homeless and at-risk women and gender diverse individuals build a sustainable pathway out of poverty. Leveraging significant pro-bono partnerships in the private sector, and with a front-line staff made up entirely of program graduates and other women with lived experience, Up With Women/Exponenti'elles provides customized, one-on-one employment and mental health services to some of the nation's most vulnerable women The organization currently serves clients in four provinces: Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and BC. Visit upwithwomen.org for more information.

SOURCE Estee Lauder

For further information: please contact, Taryn Fisher: [email protected]
Funding is part of a commitment of $100 million to support those most affected by COVID-19.

TORONTO, Feb. 24, 2023 /CNW/ - While many people in Canada struggle with their mental health, certain groups face unique challenges because of systemic racism, discrimination, socio-economic status or social exclusion. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionally impacted and exacerbated mental health challenges within these equity deserving communities.

Today, during Black History Month, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, accompanied by the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, announced close to $1.5 million in funding to support the mental health of Black individuals and communities.

Black Mental Health Canada is receiving $1.1 million for its project to build capacity among clinicians to provide culturally safe and appropriate mental health counselling, and support to Black clients who have experienced racial trauma or race-based traumatic stress. The project will reach mental health clinicians across Canada, including both Black providers treating Black individuals, as well as non-Black providers working in areas with high proportions of Black clientele.

Wanasah: Mental Health Services for Black Youth is receiving $400,000 for its project to develop Black-centric, trauma-responsive community support services in Toronto's Regent Park community. This initiative will take a community-driven participatory approach to the development of culturally-safe, equity-focused mental health services. It will also support Black youth and their families to help prevent and mitigate the impacts of diverse forms of trauma exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic recovery.

Quotes

"Black communities in Canada continue to face many systemic challenges and barriers to mental health care, and our government is committed to addressing them. The projects announced today will create environments for improved mental health outcomes and will ensure that Black individuals and communities across Canada experiencing mental health challenges have access to the most appropriate, culturally relevant supports and services they need, by the most appropriate provider."

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett

Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and Associate Minister of Health

"The road to recovery is complex for those who have experienced mental health challenges and trauma  especially for people who face social exclusion, marginalization, and stigma. This why our government is proud to support organizations like Black Mental Health Canada and Wanasah to build Black-centric and trauma-responsive services to better serve the mental health needs of these communities."

The Honourable Marci Ien

Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth



"We are honored and excited to receive funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada to further our mission of promoting mental health and wellness in Black communities. With this funding, we can expand our programs and services to better support the mental health needs of Black Canadians, who have historically faced systemic barriers to accessing appropriate care. Our team at Black Mental Health Canada is committed to working tirelessly to ensure that our communities receive the support they need to thrive, and we thank the Public Health Agency of Canada for their investment in our work."

Alice Wiafe, President

Black Mental Health Canada

"As we all know, Black communities have been subjected to a long history of systemic racism, discrimination, and oppression, which has led to immense trauma, pain, and suffering. This trauma is intergenerational, and it impacts not only individuals but also families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. With a Black Centric and Culturally Relevant trauma program in Regent Park and neighbouring communities, we can help to rebuild trust, restore dignity, and promote a sense of purpose and belonging. This is not just about addressing past trauma but also about building a better future for generations to come."

Namarig Ahmed

Executive Director and Co-Founder, Wanasah: Mental Health Services for Black Youth

Quick Facts

This announcement is part of a $100 million investment provided in Budget 2021 to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. By making strategic investments that acknowledge the specific challenges faced by equity deserving communities, the Government of Canada can ensure that people get the support they need, when and where they need it.

investment provided in Budget 2021 to support projects that promote mental health and prevent mental illness in populations disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. By making strategic investments that acknowledge the specific challenges faced by equity deserving communities, the Government of can ensure that people get the support they need, when and where they need it. We are committed to supporting the mental health of Canadians through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

On February 7, 2023 , the Government of Canada announced that it intends to work collaboratively with provinces and territories on shared health priorities to improve integrated health care for Canadians, including improved access to quality mental health and substance use services.

, the Government of announced that it intends to work collaboratively with provinces and territories on shared health priorities to improve integrated health care for Canadians, including improved access to quality mental health and substance use services. Mental health promotion and mental illness prevention are critical components for well-being and can help reduce demands on the health care system. Community-based projects focussed on mental health promotion have the potential to improve health outcomes over the life course.

Renison University College, at the University of Waterloo , is hosting a Knowledge Development and Exchange Hub (KDE Hub) for Mental Health Promotion to support the projects funded through this investment, helping to build a community with shared interests in optimizing mental health promotion and mental illness prevention across Canada .

, is hosting a Knowledge Development and Exchange Hub (KDE Hub) for Mental Health Promotion to support the projects funded through this investment, helping to build a community with shared interests in optimizing mental health promotion and mental illness prevention across . The Wellness Together Canada portal provides free access to educational content, self-guided therapy, moderated peer-to-peer support, and one-to-one counselling with qualified health professionals. If you or a loved one is struggling, you can access the Wellness Together Canada portal , or call 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 741741 (adults) or 686868 (youth).

, or call 1-866-585-0445 or text WELLNESS to 741741 (adults) or 686868 (youth). Kids Help Phone is also available 24/7 with e-mental health service offering free, confidential support to young people in English and French.

Associated Links

SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada

For further information: Maja Staka, Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary, Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, 343-552-5568; Public Inquiries: 613-957-2991, 1-866-225-0709; Media Relations, Public Health Agency of Canada, 613-957-2983, [email protected]
TORONTO, Feb. 24, 2023 /CNW/ - As the world joins together to celebrate International Women's Day March 8th, WBE Canada presents a Women's Day event , a FREE afternoon of highly relevant conversations during this challenging year for our economy.

This year's theme is Embrace Equity. Equity means creating a fair and equal world and that includes opportunities for women-owned businesses. At WBE Canada we see 2023 as an opportunity to build back better, taking into consideration the fabric of our communities,

Women's Day with WBE Canada is an event recognizing Canadian women leaders in business, supply chains and communities. Tweet this WBE Canada Women's Day event featured speakers (CNW Group/WBE Canada)

Let's come together and talk about what's working well in Canada and internationally and celebrate how far we've come and how we can build on these best practices going forward. Let's also explore the challenges and lessons learned as we continue building more equitable supply chains in Corporate and Government organizations across Canada.

WHEN?

March 8, 2023 at 1- 4pm ET via Zoom

WHAT TO EXPECT?

Join us as we contemplate the meaning behind embracing equity and bring the latest updates and future outlook for supplier diversity in Canada and globally.

Rising Through the Ranks in a Family Business - Margaret Hudson , Burnbrae Farms Ltd.

, Burnbrae Farms Ltd. The State of Women Entrepreneurship and DEI in Canada - Magdalena Sabat , Diversity Institute, Toronto Metropolitan University

- , Diversity Institute, Metropolitan University The State of DEI in Supply Chains Internationally - Dr. Barb Orser , University of Ottawa

, Supplier Diversity in Canada : Public and Private - Jamie Crump , The Richwell Group

: Public and Private - , The Richwell Group Why Supplier Diversity Matters - Sherrie O'Doyle , BMO

, BMO Building Equitable Supply Chains for THIS Generation - Silvia Pencak , WBE Canada

, WBE Canada And many others

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This event is open to the public at no cost, we encourage the following participants to register

Women-owned business owners and their team members

Supplier diversity professionals

Representatives of large corporate and government organizations

Champions and supporters of women-owned businesses

Media interested in learning the latest updates about how Canadian supply chains are changing

This event is FREE but seats are limited.

REGISTER HERE

About WBE Canada

Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada) is a Canadian non-profit organization working closely with corporations and government organizations advocating for inclusion of Canadian Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) in supply chains across Canada and abroad. To ensure diversity in supply chains WBE Canada works closely with its Corporate and Government members to provide necessary training and support to help establish and develop supplier diversity initiatives. Explore our Corporate/Government membership here.

SOURCE WBE Canada

For further information: Media inquiries: Alexandra Roy, [email protected]
The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, said this at a news conference to address the serious matters arising from the 2023 election.





Abure said that the Independent National Electoral Commissions (INEC) by its conduct has caused Nigerians, particularly youths, who took part in this election with high hopes of a free and transparent process to hold strong feelings of disappointment and disillusionment.





The Electoral Act was amended in 2022 for the electronic transmission of results after they are declared at the polling units.





Nigerians participated in this process with the belief that the use of technology and adherence to the agreed electronic transmission of results to INEC servers at polling units would ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.





Yesterday, being Saturday, Feb.25, 2023, the very process which INEC assured Nigerians would be followed was truncated for whatever reasons.





No matter what those reasons are, they are totally unacceptable to Nigerians and members of the party.





INEC servers shut down and only presidential elections could not be uploaded onto the INEC server.









Abure said that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) did not work as planned.





This failure no doubt has given room for manipulation of the presidential results being announced by the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu at the Collation Centre in Abuja.





We have sufficient documentary evidence that confirm that manipulations of the presidential elections results have





occurred in Lagos, Rivers, Imo, Parts of Edo State, Delta State, and some Northern States.





These manipulations were carried out under the watchful eyes and connivance of police officers at the various





election units and INEC offices.





Abure said that 24 hours after the elections, INEC was yet to upload the authentic results adding that the excuse that the server was down was flimsy and not tenable.





He said that the irregularities in the electoral process adding that the election had been marred by irregularities and the integrity of INEC and its Chairman was now in doubt.





We, therefore, call on Mr President, Muhammadu Buhari, who promised Nigerians that he would leave a legacy of free, fair, and credible elections, assuring Nigerians, on several occasions, that their votes would count and that the process leading to the elections would be transparent and open.









We are calling on you to live up to your promise to Nigerians as millions of Nigerians, particularly, the youth participated in the 2023 elections with the hope that Mr President would keep to his promise of a free, fair, and transparent election.





Abure said that Labour Party also called on the INEC Chairman to ensure that the wishes of the people were upheld.





He said the party and its presidential candidates would not accept results which reflected the actual voting results obtained at polling units across the country.
Suspected thugs on Monday evening invaded the Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, venue of the collation centre for presidential and National Assembly elections in the Northern Senatorial district of the state.





It was gathered that the thugs chased away the INEC officials before they could conclude their assignment.





An official of the Jos North LGA who witnessed the disruption at the collation centre confirmed the development to a radio station, Jay FM, in Jos.





The council official said, Trouble started when the party agents were asked to sign the results for the Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency as announced by the Returning Officer, Dr Nehemiah Sanda, which indicated that the PDP candidate, Musah Agah won the election with 59,337.

However, the agent of the PRP candidate who scored the second highest number of votes with 58,460 rejected the results and insisted that no result sheets would be signed at the collation centre nor the winner be announced.

As the INEC officials were trying to prevail on the party agent to allow them do their job, the thugs believed to be loyal to the PRP invaded the collation centre and chased the INEC officials away and prevented them from declaring the winners. We dont know what the thugs could have done if not that a senior police officer DC Afebuamhe quickly came in and seized the election results 





The Returning Officer for the Presidential election for the Collation Centre, Dr Lazurus Maigoro also confirmed the disruption of the election exercise by the thugs





Maigoro said Yes, it is true that thugs invaded our collation centre while we were doing our job. It is now up to the INEC to know what to do next





It further gathered that before the thugs invaded the collation centre, they had earlier attacked a Collation Officer, Mrs Leritshimwa Amagon while on her way to the Council Secretariat





It was learnt that Amagon who is the Collation Officer for Naraguta B Ward, in Jos North Local Government Area was returning collated results for the National Assembly election when thugs attacked her on the way and snatched some of the recorded result sheets.




Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo said the Saturdays presidential election failed integrity test and as such, the election must be cancelled.





He particularly asked the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Mahmood Yakubu to save Nigeria from the looming danger and disaster waiting to happen.





He said this in a statement titled 2023 Nigeria Presidential Election: An Appeal For Caution and Rectification.





According to him, it is no secret that INEC officials at operational level have been allegedly compromised following the manual transmission of results which has been manipulated and doctored.





NigerianEye recalls that on January 1, Obasanjo has openly endorsed the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, as his preferred candidate for the February election.





Obasanjo made this known in a new year message titled My appeal to all Nigerians particularly Young Nigerians.





The former president noted that none of the president candidates is a saint, but when compared on the knowledge, discipline and what they can offer, Obi has an edge.





None of the contestants is a saint but when one compares their character, antecedent, their understanding, knowledge, discipline and vitality that they can bring to bear and the great efforts required to stay focused on the job particularly looking at where the country is today and with the experience on the job that I personally had, Peter Obi as a mentee has an edge, Obasanjo said.





Tthe ongoing collation of the presidential election results at National Collation center earlier today was thrown into confusion as PDP agent, Dino Melaye and others stormed out of the venue, citing alleged compromise.





Obasanjos letter is coming barely few hours after the party agents staged a walk out.





He told President Muhammadu Buhari that tension is building up and please let all elections that do not pass the credibility and transparency test be cancelled and be brought back with areas where elections were disrupted for next Saturday, March 4, 2023, and BVAS and Server officials be changed.
Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, has asked Lagos residents to avoid any act of violence in the wake of his loss to Peter Obi in the presidential election held in the state.

Obi, the candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has been declared the winner in Lagos  a state which has always been a stronghold of Tinubu.

In a statement released hours after Obi was announced as the winner, Tinubu said the outcome of the election should not be a source of provocation.

The fact that the APC narrowly lost Lagos state to another party should not be the reason for violence. As a democrat, you win some, you lose some. We must allow the process to continue unhindered across the country while we maintain peace and decorum, he said.

Tinubu polled 572,606 votes behind Obi who had 582,354 votes. Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) garnered 75,750 votes, while Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and Adewole Adebayo of Social Democratic Party (SDP) had 8,442 and 772 votes respectively.

The former Lagos governor condemned reports of violence in parts of the state especially reported attacks on some traders of Igbo origin.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, has hailed his constituents in the Surulere 1 Federal Constituency of Lagos State for electing him for the 6th term.





Gbajabiamila emerged victorious during the presidential and National Assembly elections that took place on Saturday.





He polled 19,717 votes and defeated his closest opponent, Bosun Jeje of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored 5,121 votes.





Speaker Gbajabiamila said he remained grateful to the people of Surulere 1 for giving him the sixth term mandate, noting that he would not disappoint them.





The speaker according to a statement from his office Sunday night said he would continue to work assiduously and bring more developmental projects to Surulere and beyond.





He said: I am immensely grateful to the people of Surulere for their overwhelming support. I do not take your support for granted.





As your representative for the past 20 years, I have always protected your interest. I am proud of you as my constituents. I thank our teeming supporters, our Surulere APC leaders, party members, CDAs and residents for their massive support.





This victory is not mine alone. It is a victory for democracy. Surulere has made history by this sixth mandate given to me, which would definitely spur me to do more for you.





It will be recalled that Gbajabiamila was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2003 to represent Surulere 1 Federal Constituency.





Since then, he has won elections in the subsequent 5 election cycles, including that of yesterday.





He remained the only lawmaker from South West geopolitical zone to have been elected six times to represent his constituency.





Gbajabiamila served as Minority Whip, Minority Leader, Opposition Leader, and Majority Leader before getting elected as Speaker in 2019.




Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday urged the people of the state to remain calm, eschew violence and go about their businesses without any fear of harassment.





Sanwo-Olu, in a statement via his Twitter handle, said that there had been reports of friction in some parts of the state in the morning.





According to the governor, there is no need for violence, which is not part of the states culture.





The statement reads in part: I urge all Lagosians to go about their businesses without any fear of harassment.





Law enforcement agencies have been asked to ensure that there is no breakdown of law and order in any part of the state.





Let us remain calm. All will be well. Were a peaceful people, and so we shall remain.




Atiku Abubakar, Presidential candidate of the PDP has defeated Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling APC, in President Buharis home state, Katsina after polling 489,045 votes from across the 34 LGA in the state.





He defeated his major rival in the 2023 elections with a margin of 6,762 votes as Tinubu polled 482,045 votes to come second in the Katsina presidential election held on Saturday.





Katsina State Presidential Election Returning Officer, Prof. Maazu Abubakar Gusau disclosed this to journalists, election monitors/observers at the INEC Collation Centre early hours of Monday morning.





The Presidential candidate of the NNPP, Rabiu Kwankwaso came a distant third with 69,385 votes and was followed by Peter Obi of the Labour Party who secured 6,376 votes.





Gusau gave the result of the other presidential candidates as follows:

A 255, AA 523, AAC 234, ADC 1405, ADP 1798, APGA 1391, APM 603, APP 269, BP 327, NRM 1053, PRP 1986, SDP 339, YPP 1029 and ZLP 371.





The state returning officer, however, noted that the presidential election results were cancelled in some polling units in 15 LGAs due to thuggery, over-voting, among other reasons.





The affected 15 LG and the number of polling units as disclosed by Gusau are as follows:





Baure where 1110 total PVC were collected; Danmusa, two polling units with 13435 total voters; Daura, one polling unit with 664 total voters 665 and 595 total collected PVC; and Dutsinma, one polling unit with 482 total voters and 496 total collected PVC.





Others are: Funtua, 3 polling units with 1031 total votes 1031 and 553 collected PVC;

Kankara, AR07, with 603 total voters; Katsina, 7 polling units with 2833 total voters; Kurfi, one polling unit with 987 total voters; Kusada, one polling unit with 167 total voters; Maiadua, one polling unit with 367 total voters.





Others are: Malumfashi, 10 polling units with 2878 total voters; Mashi, three polling units with 2279 total voters; Sabuwa, one polling unit with 315 total voters and Safana, 10 polling units with 17348 total registered voters.





Meanwhile, in one of the affected LGAs, Kafur, Gusau said: the number is yet to be given to me but 12 polling units were affected due to thuggery. The actual registered voters and PVC collected are not available.




Ex-Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic PDP, Bode George has denied saying INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu met with Bola Tinubu in Lagos.





Circulating information claimed the electoral chief flew into Lagos Saturday night and left in a private jet owned by the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate.





In a rebuttal Sunday night, George stated that the claim must have emanated from demented souls and was a strategy to cause confusion in the polity.





I dont work at the Control Tower or Cargo Section of the airport. I am not an official of INEC, so how will I know the movement of INEC Chairman?





Everybody knows he is in Abuja as the Chief Returning Officer of the presidential election.





The politician recalled that after voting, he returned home with his wife to watch coverage of the election by various television stations.





George said nobody could use him to score cheap political points, revealing prominent Nigerians have been calling because of this senseless statement.





On election results, the PDP chieftain insists they should be transmitted immediately, adding that he suspects those against BVAS fabricated the comment linked to him.




Cross River State Governor, Ben Ayade has been defeated in the Saturdays National Assembly election.





The incumbent Senator representing the Northern Senatorial District of the state in the National Assembly, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe was re-elected.





Senator Jarigbe who contested under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, garnered 76,145 to defeat governor Ben Ayade of the All Progressives Congress who polled 56, 595 votes in the exercise.





Declaring Sen. Jarigbe winner of the exercise in the early hours of Monday, the returning officer, Dr. Emmanuel Emanghe who spoke on behalf of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC thanked stakeholders for their peaceful conduct.





Emanghe also lauded all security agents for giving the needed security support which invariably led to successful and credible elections.




The presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Ahmad Tinubu, has won the presidential election in Jigawa State with a slim margin.





The Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, announced this on Monday morning at the INEC headquarters, Dutse, the state capital.





Announcing the presidential result, collation officer Prof. Arma Yau Jamisu Bichi said the presidential candidate of the ruling APC Bola Ahmad Tinubu, scored 421,390, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the NNPP scored 98,234, Atiku Abubakar of PDP got 386,587 and Peter Obi of the LP scored 1,889 votes.





He said the APC won the presidential election with a slim margin of 34,803 votes against the PDP in Jigawa.





He said the total number of votes cast is 954,805, valid votes are 92,531, and rejected votes are 34,274.





While the total number of registered voters are 2,341,041, out of which 961,670 were accredited.




A youth corper identified as Adeleke E. and one other have been allegedly held hostage by angry voters at Oki Street in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.





Security operatives were seen going to rescue the corper who is an INEC ad-hoc staff.





The incident happened at Unit 19, Ward 5, Oki 1, off Okere Road in Warri, Delta State.





The NYSC member told newsmen correspondent they were held hostage by angry voters because the BVAS machine crashed.





Efforts to speak with INEC office in Warri have been fruitless as they are not picking their call, he said.
The Peoples Democratic Party's presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has won the elections in Akwa Ibom State with 214,012 votes.





Also, the presidential flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, came second with 160,620 votes, and Labour Party, third with 132, 683 votes, while the Young Progressives Party (YPP) and New Nigerian People's Party (NNPP) came fourth and fifth with 27,179 and 7, 796 votes respectively.
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi has defeated the presidential candidates of APC, Bola Tinubu, Atiku Abubakar of PDP and Rabiu Kwankwaso of NNPP by a wide margin in seven out of the 13 local government areas of Ebonyi State.

Obi is leading by a wide margin in the results so far declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Ebonyi State.

The INEC state collation officer in Ebonyi State, Prof. Charles Igwe who is the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, UNN, declared the results as follows:

Ishielu LGA

LP -16186

APC  1261

PDP  574

NNPP  111

Total vote cast  19078

Total valid vote  18468

Rejected votes  610

Afikpo North LGA

LP  25480

APC  1405

NNPP  149

PDP  1155

Total vote cast  29559

Total valid vote  28737

Rejected votes  822

Afikpo South LGA

LP  10895

APC  2405

PDP  1215

NNPP  58 votes

Total vote cast  15134

Total valid vote  14734

Rejected votes  400

Ebonyi LGA

LP  27551

APC  2677

NNPP  114

Total vote cast  32398

Total valid votes  31557

Rejected votes  841.

Ikwo LGA

LP  20734

APC- 12621

PDP  1939

NNPP  251

Total vote  35835

Total valid votes -34713

Rejected votes  1119

Izzi LGA

LP -28931

APC- 11779

PDP  789

NNPP -86

Total votes  43324

Total valid vote  42083

Rejected votes  1241

Ezza North LGA

LP  17959

APC -875

NNPP-146

PDP  392

Total vote cast  21924

Total valid votes  21127

Rejected votes  797
An official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been killed following an attack by gunmen in Delta state.

Monday Udoh-Tom, the INEC resident electoral commissioner (REC) in the state, confirmed the development at a media briefing on Monday.

Speaking in Asaba, the Delta capital, Udoh-Tom said the INEC official was shot when gunmen attacked a bus on his way to deliver election results at Ukwani LGA of the state, on Saturday.

There was an attack in Ukwani LGA where one of our staff was shot on his way with the election results after the election, the REC said.

The gunmen opened fire on their bus and unfortunately, killed the INEC official and others sustained injuries.

The other ad hoc staff who were injured were identified as members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

The corps members are now receiving treatment, but we are planning on how to move them to a hospital in Asaba.

Attacks were recorded in parts of Delta state during the elections on Saturday.

Bolanle Olabimtan, its judiciary correspondent who was deployed to Delta to cover the elections, was assaulted by thugs on Saturday.
A collation centre at Takai LGA of Kano state was, on Sunday, almost razed following an attack by some persons.

Confirming the incident, Abdullahi Kiyawa, police spokesperson in the state, said election materials were removed from centre and the fire was extinguished.

Kiyawa added that some suspects have been arrested over the development.

Attempts were made by some miscreants to burn down the place but the fire was put out and all the election materials were evacuated, he added.

More so, three persons have been arrested and investigations are on.

Some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also sustained injuries during the attack.

Speaking on the development at a media briefing, Kawu Samaila, the Kano south senatorial candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), alleged that one person was killed.

It so happened that one of the collation centres at Takai local government area was attacked today at about 10am. Some miscreants came with weapons and tried to disrupt the collation process, Samaila said.

They beat up some officials at the collation centre. They shot at some of our supporters who were there waiting to witness the declaration of results.

Unfortunately, one is dead and the other is hospitalised at the moment.








Some Political parties in Ebonyi State have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to cancel the results of the National Assembly of the Saturday polls in the state.





The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some of the political parties with their candidates in the elections include: the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Sen Sam Egwu, the Labour Party, Mr Linus Okorie, Ama Nnachi of PDP, Lazarus Ogbee, PDP amongst others.





Others are: Emmanuel Eze, Labour Party candidate for Abakaliki/Izzi federal constituency, APGA candidate,





The candidates made the call at INEC office in Abakaliki, on Monday.





Egwu of PDP, who contested for Ebonyi North Senatorial District in the Senate, lost the seat to Mr Onyekachi Nwebonyi of APC, while Okorie of Labour Party lost his post to Gov David Umahi of APC in Ebonyi South zone.





He alleged that scores from booths were not used but allocation of figures.





Egwu called for the cancellation of the results and make use of the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).





Verify all the results with what is in the BVAS because what is happening in Ebonyi now is wrong.





How can they still be collating results by now and even before the final collation, they were already announcing results.





The choice of the people has completely been truncated because of the All Progressives Congress selfish politicians in the state, Egwu alleged.





Mr Linus Okorie, the Labour Party Senatorial Candidate of Ebonyi South, called for their mandate to be retrieved and urged people of Ebonyi to remain calm.





Okorie expressed dissatisfaction that a supposed individual who was meant to protect and ensure the election process was peaceful, was desperate.





We tender a petition right there calling for the attention of the returning officer to the law, section 243 which prevents him or anybody from announcing the result, Okorie said.





Mrs Onyeka Ugochi, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) called for calm and pledged that the commission would verify the results.
Hadi Sirika, minister of aviation, has asked Bola Tinubu, the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to write his acceptance speech.

Sirika made the suggestion in a post on his official Twitter page on Monday.

Notwithstanding the irritation in Lagos, Osun, Kano, Katsina, Yobe, Gombe and couple others, President elect Sen Bola Ahmed Tinubu should write his acceptance speech now, he tweeted.

But your Excellency please make it short, we will sleep early tonight. Zero tension. Alhamdulillah.

Notwithstanding the irritation in Lagos, Osun, Kano, Katsina, Yobe, Gombe and couple others, President elect Sen Bola Ahmed Tinubu should write his acceptance speech now. But your Excellency please make it short, we will sleep early tonight. Zero tension. Alhamdulillah   Hadi Abubakar Sirika (@hadisirika) February 27, 2023





Some states have announced the outcome of the presidential election, while others are being collated in offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) across the country.

Although Tinubu has been announced the winner of the presidential election conducted in states such as Kwara, Ekiti, Ogun, and Osun, he lost in states including Kastina and Lagos.
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Cities roll out incentives to boost birthrates

09:40, February 27, 2023 By WANG XIAOYU ( China Daily

Major cities have ramped up subsidies and nursery care services to encourage families to have more children as senior health officials said "bold and innovative" measures should be taken to address low birthrates.

Hangzhou, capital of Zhejiang province, recently announced that parents who have a third child will receive a lump-sum payment of 20,000 yuan ($2,905) and those who have a second child will get 5,000 yuan.

Officials in Shenzhen, the financial and technology hub of Guangdong province, said in January that parents who have a third child will receive a subsidy of 19,000 yuan.

According to a document issued by the city authorities, a couple will receive a subsidy of 7,500 yuan for their first child and 11,000 yuan for their second. The subsidies will be paid in annual installments until the child turns 5.

Jinan, capital of Shandong province, announced in January that all families that have a second or third child will receive a subsidy of 600 yuan per month per child until the child turns 3.

Yang Ge, a researcher at Chinese Academy of Social Sciences' Institute of Population and Labor Economics, said that fertility subsidies will likely be an incentive for low-income groups to have more children, but will hardly affect middle- and high-income families.

"It will be difficult to align specific measures aimed at encouraging births across the country, so local governments, especially those that want to put extra efforts into raising the population and have extra finances, can take the lead in rolling out cash incentives," she said.

Yang added that another popular approach used by many local authorities to encourage births is the expansion of nursery care services. "Due to the relatively high female labor participation rate in China, helping women of childbearing age to better allocate their time will have an impact on their fertility plans," she said.

Officials in Shenyang, capital of Liaoning province, said that affordable nursery care centers can receive up to 365 yuan per child per month in subsidies, while kindergartens are being encouraged to provide nursery care services for children ages 2 and 3. In addition, employers will be supported in setting up nursery care facilities near workplaces.

However, Yang said that raising the fertility rate is not easy based on the experiences of developed countries, and it might take at least a decade for supportive measures to yield outcomes.

The mainland's total population dropped for the first time in six decades last year. The number of newborns also fell below 10 million for the first time since 1950, according to official statistics.

Yang Wenzhuang, head of the National Health Commission's department of population surveillance and family development, said the total fertility rate in China had dropped from 1.77 births per woman in 2016 to 1.15 in 2021.

"The extremely low rate of fertility is the most prominent threat to maintaining balanced population development," he said in an article published last month.

Yang said the fertility rate in some European countries fell below 1.5 before policymakers began rolling out supportive measures to increase birthrates. It took about a decade before a slow rebound in birthrates began.

"Japan and South Korea have been recording consistently low fertility levels because their interventions were rolled out belatedly and efforts to address the issue were lackluster," he said.

For China, Yang said that financial burdens, challenges in taking care of children and women's concerns over career development are major factors contributing to low birthrates.

"In essence, their concerns are that the costs of having and rearing children are too high," he said, adding that comprehensive measures that can precisely tackle public concerns must be launched.

"Local governments should be encouraged to actively explore and make bold innovations in reducing the cost of childbirth, child care and education," he added.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Tracy Kennan is curator of education at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
A Northwest Indiana legislator is leading an effort to ensure Hoosier law enforcement officers and other emergency personnel have the equipment needed to save the life of an individual suffering a bleeding injury.

Rep. Mike Andrade, D-Munster, won unanimous House approval Thursday for his proposal establishing a process for the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to distribute bleeding-control kits to first responders who request one.

Specifically, House Bill 1396 authorizes DHS to accept donations of Stop The Bleed kits, or money to purchase the kits, and sets up guidelines for public safety personnel to obtain them.

The kits generally include a tourniquet and dressings to stop an injured individual from bleeding to death, a mask, gloves, trauma shears and an instruction booklet.

Being a law enforcement officer is dangerous enough without having the tools you need to take care of life-threatening injuries before help arrives, Andrade said.

Every day, our law enforcement officers deserve to know they are equipped with the tools they need to help save a life, whether its their life or someone elses. This bill will give them more peace of mind on the job, he added.

The proposal, which is co-sponsored by Rep. Hal Slager, R-Schererville, next goes to the Senate for a decision on sending it to Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb to be signed into law.

In service of those who protect and serve us, I urge the Senate to take up this vital piece of legislation, Andrade said.

Gallery: Take a virtual tour of Indiana's state parks Brown County State Park Chain O' Lakes State Park Charlestown State Park Clifty Falls State Park Falls of the Ohio State Park Fort Harrison State Park Harmonie State Park Lincoln State Park McCormick's Creek State Park Mounds State Park O'Bannon Woods State Park Ouabache State Park Pokagon State Park Potato Creek State Park Prophetstown State Park Shades State Park Shakamak State Park Spring Mill State Park Summit Lake State Park Tippecanoe River State Park Turkey Run State Park Versailles State Park White River State Park Whitewater Memorial State Park
HAMMOND  If youve had a bowl of breakfast cereal, snacked on some almonds or sipped a cup of Americas top-selling coffee, a long-running Hammond company probably helped it happen.

Screw Conveyor Corporation makes screw conveyors and other products used in food processing, serving clients that include many recognizable household brands like Kelloggs, General Mills and Folgers.

The family-owned manufacturing company at 700 Hoffman St. in Hammond recently celebrated its 90th business anniversary.

Headquartered in Hammond, Screw Conveyor Corporation manufactures bulk materials handling equipment like screw conveyors, bucket elevators and drag conveyors. It has manufacturing plants in Hammond; Winona, Mississippi; Visalia, California; and Guadalajara, Mexico, that supply customers all over the world.

Our products are used throughout much of industry, General Manager, CEO and third-generation owner Garry Abraham said. Theyre used in processing industries like food processing, chemical processing. ... Theyre used to make food, animal feed and Kelloggs cereal. Our customer base is worldwide.

The companys largest plant is in Mississippi, south of Memphis. It operates in corporate headquarters in Hammond where it still does manufacturing, making bucket elevators. Factories use series of the companys buckets on belts or chains to lift products vertically while theyre being processed on an assembly line.

Screw Conveyor Corporation has long done business with local companies, serving Cargills Hammond plant since it was American Maize and Hammonds Unilever plant since it was Lever Brothers. It serves Harris Ranch Beef Company, the largest supplier of steak on the West Coast with more than $600 million a year in sales.

The company even fills orders internationally, including from Japan and Australia.

It sells processing equipment and replacement parts, connecting customers with installers who can get them up in running. It can also adapt to customers specific needs.

We have six engineers that can basically design something from scratch, Abraham said. Most customers buy the standard products. The food processors use our products to make almonds and pistachios. The grain processors use them. Weve sold significantly to General Mills and Kelloggs. Weve sold to wood processors like Georgia Pacific. Weve sold to chemicals processing and waste management for all the goo and stuff that comes out of the waste chain. Its not necessarily a glamor product, but its been around since the time of Archimedes.

The company was founded during the depths of the Great Depression in October 1932. It started as an offshoot of the George W. Moore Company on 42nd Street in Chicago. Chief Engineer Clarence F. Abraham and four others who worked for that company struck out on their own and started making screw conveyors in Hammond, using the expertise they gained at the other plant before they were let go during tough economic times.

They all lived in Illinois and came over to Hammond for a lot of the same reasons that companies come over to Hammond and Northwest Indiana to do business today, Abraham said.

The banks wouldnt loan them any money. They had to sell their scrap metal to buy primary metals to turn it into a product.

It was trying as it was the heart of the depression, he said. Years ago, when we celebrated our 60th anniversary, my father checked with Dunn and Bradstreet and asked the historian how many businesses started in the heart of the depression survived. They didnt have specific records, but he said damn few.

But Screw Conveyor Corporation got established and built up a loyal customer base.

It had its ups and downs, but we started with maybe 10 employees, he said. But now were much larger with around 180 employees, including Mexico.

The company expanded to Mississippi in 1952, Santa Clara, south of San Francisco, in 1955 and Mexico in 1994.

We have locations in the Upper Midwest, the Southeast and the West Coast. We pretty much cover a whole lot of the United States, he said. The Mexico location covers Central American and South America. We have a lot of customers in Columbia, the hub of animal feed.

Screw Conveyor Corporation products are often used to feed livestock that end up on plates and are also used in rice and sugar processing.

I would say about 65% to 70% of the products we sell are used for some type of food consumption, whether human consumption or food animal feed that will eventually result in food for human consumption, he said. We make key pieces. Were integral to the process. I like to think we feed the world.

The company also made augers for John Deere tractors during the 1950s, 60s and 70s, but that business line dried up when John Deere decided to start making augers in-house.

The business was cyclical in the past but has gotten steadier as it diversified its products.

Our customer based is much more stable and consistent, he said. At one time we were more connected to grain and what was happening in the fields.

Many of its customers have been with the company for decades. While a lot of its sales are to mass distributors, it deals directly with major customers like cereal makers, Folgers and nut producers on the West Coast.

A lot of the cereal processors have been with us more than 50 years, he said. Ive made more than one trip to Battle Creek, Michigan, to work with Kelloggs. Its fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. If you meet their needs, they tend to buy from the same company year in and year out. Weve been able to meet companies needs for 90 years and hopefully another 90 years.

He and his brother Curtis F. Abraham are third-generation owners, though Curtis doesnt work full-time because of health issues. Nephew Craig C. Abraham is being ushered in as the fourth generation of family leadership.

The family has been very successful in running the company, he said. We look forward to many more successful years in Hammond.

The company marked its anniversary with a party in Wicker Park that drew current and former employees. Many of its workers stay there for years.

We have a really good group of people and try to find good people to replace them when they leave or retire, he said. We really do carry about our people. We provide them with the best work environment we can, and they tend to stick with us.

Already enduring for the better part of the century, the company plans to stick around.

Our motto is that we have the experience to do it right, he said. Its a significant milestone to continue to make the products we have for the last 90 years. We want to continue to grow our customer base as much as we can. We help process food to help feed the world.

PHOTOS: Screw Conveyor marks 90 years of 'feeding the world' in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond Screw Conveyor Corporation marks 90 years in Hammond
On Dec. 22, 1985, The Associated Press reported the following from Blue Ridge, Georgia:

Investigators searching for cocaine dropped by an airborne smuggler have found a ripped-up shipment of the sweet-smelling powder and the remains of a bear that apparently died of a multimillion-dollar high.

Police found a sad scene. A 175-lb. black bear dead near a duffle bag and some $2 million worth of cocaine that had been opened and scattered over a hillside. The parachutist, a former Kentucky narcotics investigator, had fallen to his death in a backyard in Knoxville, Tennessee. His unmanned airplane crashed into a North Carolina mountain. Back in Georgia, the bear, examiners said, had overdosed.

The story is in many ways too much. Too absurd. Too 80s. Even the screenwriters of the Fast & Furious movies would think it far-fetched. The stranger-than-fiction tale quickly receded from the headlines and, before some began to stoke the myth of Pablo Escobear, it mostly stayed buried in news media archives.

That changed when screenwriter Jimmy Warden delivered to producers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller a script titled Cocaine Bear. They were on board from page one.

When the movies pitched, you hear the word Cocaine, youre like Im not sure what to think of this, Lord says. Then when you hear the word Bear, youre like: Im all in.

Yes, Cocaine Bear is a real movie. And after it opens in theaters Friday, it might even be a hit. Since the trailer first debuted for Elizabeth Banks very, very loosely based-on-a-true-story R-rated comedy has stoked a rabid zeitgeist. At a time when much in Hollywood can feel pre-packaged, the makers of Cocaine Bear think it can be an untamed exception.

Hopefully the film lives up to the title, Banks says, smiling. That was the goal.

Little on the movie calendar has captured the public imagination quite like Cocaine Bear. Its trailer, watched more than 25 million times, immediately went viral. The movie, itself, is like a meme sprung to life  a kind of spiritual heir to Snakes on a Plane crossed with a Paddington Bear fever dream. Everything about it is propelled by a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor and can-you-believe-this-is-a-real-movie wink. Im the bear who ate cocaine, reads one of the film's official tweets. This is my story.

While most studio movies are driven by well-known intellectual property and few original comedies manage to attract audiences in theaters, Cocaine Bear is here to strike a blow to business-as-usual in Hollywood. Cocaine Bear is here to be bold. Cocaine Bear is here to party.

You have to demonstrate theatricality to get the greenlight. It just means you have to swing the bat a little harder, Lord says. In this world thats increasingly mechanized, things that dont feel mechanized have really special value.

Miller and Lord have in recent years shepherded some of the most vibrant and irreverent films to the screen, including The Lego Movie,Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and The Mitchells vs the Machines. They like to take apart old conventions and give them an absurdist, post-modern spin.

Certainly, this movie was not mandated by a corporation, Miller says, laughing. Its a thing we somehow snuck through the system. Thats how we love to make all our movies, like: I cant believe they let us get away with this.

Warden had been a production assistant on their 2012 action comedy 21 Jump Street." After hearing about the 1985 story, Warden wrote the script on spec and hoped his old bosses would like it. Intrigued at the screenplay's possibility, the producers found an unexpectedly open reception from Universal Pictures chief Donna Langley.

Whats funny is that we thought it would be difficult because of the subject matter. But surprisingly, they were excited right from the jump and didnt shy away from the movie, its tone or even its title, says Miller. We thought at some point, someone was going to say, Well you cant call it Cocaine Bear. You have to call it A Walk in the Woods."

Since her directorial debut in 2015's Pitch Perfect 2, Banks has carved out a second career behind the camera. She last helmed 2019's Charlie's Angels." With Universal's backing and Lord and Miller producing, Cocaine Bear struck her as not just a viable, actually-happening project but one where she could marry a gory animal attack movie with comedy.

Most people are surprised that it is a real thing, and very surprised that Im the person that made it, says Banks, laughing. I just got a text from someone who was like, Ive been hearing about this movie and I had no idea you made it.

Though the title meant Cocaine Bear would be limited from some advertising platforms, the filmmakers describe the studio as interested in leaning into what made the film distinct from the all the options viewers are inundated with. Nothing, it turned out, could cut through all the noise like Cocaine Bear.

They love things with strong flavor. Thats the word I hear a lot in my marketing meetings," Banks says. Its harder and harder to find things that are theatrically exciting. The hope was that we were making something people needed to leave their house to see.

The film, itself, takes the basis of the real story and imagines what might have transpired if the bear didn't quickly die but went on a coke-fueled rampage through a national forest, terrorizing park wardens, campers and drug dealers seeking the lost shipment. After an initial taste, the bear goes after more cocaine with all the zeal of Yogi pursuing a picnic basket.

The bear, named Cokie, was a CGI concoction created by Weta FX with Allen Henry, a stunt man and student of Andy Serkis, performing motion capture. He wore all black and walked on all fours with prosthetic arms. The rest of the cast includes Keri Russell, Margo Martindale, Alden Ehrenreich, O'Shea Jackson and Ray Liotta. It's one of Liotta's final performances before his death last May, and one that connects back to his similarly cocaine-laced performance in Goodfellas."

Ive said that this film felt very risky. The risk was: I was never going to have the lead character of the movie on the set of the movie, Banks says. That was truly what scared me the most. If the bear didnt work, the movie falls apart.

Lord and Miller hope that there's a rising realization within the film industry that movies that are audaciously original can pack theaters. Lord points to the Academy Awards favorite "Everything Everywhere All at Once as recent proof.

It could win best picture and its the zaniest idea out there, Lord says. For the scale of that movie, its a huge hit. What were after is demonstrating that these movies can be original and fun and surprising and they can be hits.

I cant think of a movie that came out last year that wouldnt have been maybe a little bit better if there had a been a cocaine-fueled bear on a rampage as part of it," adds Miller. "Imagine if The Banshees of Inisherin had a big bear just running through biting that guys fingers off.

If it's successful, Cocaine Bear could, of course, become a franchise of its own. A sequel isn't out the question. LSD Armadillo? Quaalude Tortoise? Banks, for now, is deferring.

Somebody will put something into the AI chat bot and it will spit out something ridiculous and the internet will write it for us.
LAPORTE  A felon convicted in two states was reportedly nabbed driving along a local stretch of Interstate 94 with two handguns and nearly 2 ounces of marijuana, Indiana State Police said.

A state trooper stopped a 2007 GMC Yukon around 11 a.m. Thursday along I-94 near the U.S. 20 exit for speeding and following other vehicles too closely, ISP Sgt. Glen Fifield said.

When the vehicle was searched, the officer found the two handguns in the center console with 50 grams of marijuana, according to Fifield.

The driver, Darrell N. Moore, 37, from Roseville, Minnesota, was taken to the LaPorte County Jail and faces felony counts of unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon and carrying a handgun without a permit by a convicted felon, and misdemeanor possession of marijuana.
GARY  Police have learned that the suspect in a 2018 shooting that resulted in the death over the weekend of a 24-year-old Gary man had himself died in 2020.

Gary police Lt. Dawn Westerfield initially reported that no new charges could be filed against Robert Jones because he had already pleaded guilty to criminal recklessness in the case.

"Per the rules of double jeopardy, we cannot add additional charges now," Westerfield said, referring to the Constitutional protection against being charged twice for the same crime.

Westerfield then reported that the department has since learned that Jones is dead.

Kenan Spears died Saturday of complications from a gunshot wound to the head that he suffered in 2018, the Cook County medical examiner's office and the Gary Police Department reported.

The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide and said the incident took place in the 600 block of Harrison Street in Gary, where Spears lived.

Spears was pronounced dead at 5:59 p.m. Saturday at the University of Illinois Hospital in Chicago.

Police said at the time that the shooting occurred during a neighborhood brawl. Spears, who was 19 at the time, was shot in the head with a rifle.

Jones was charged with attempted murder, three counts of felony battery, criminal recklessness and pointing a firearm.

He pleaded guilty in May 2019 to criminal recklessness and was sentenced to one year and eight months behind bars, and had already served 288 days, court records show.
GARY  Last spring, the Interfaith Action Network held a community meeting to discuss the possibility of creating a mobile crisis response team in Gary. Nine months later, the initiative is one vote away from receiving $1.5 million, and new state legislation could open the door to even more funding.

In October, the Gary Common Council unanimously approved an ordinance earmarking $1.5 million of the citys $80.3 million American Rescue Plan Act funds for the mobile mental health initiative. On March 7, the council will vote on an ordinance that actually appropriates the money. The 6 p.m. meeting will include a public hearing.

This kind of project is something that is desperately needed, and it cant come soon enough, Michaela Spanenberg said during a Feb. 21 Common Council meeting.

The idea for a mobile mental health unit came out of the list of recommendations created by the Gary Police Reform Commission in 2021. Mayor Jerome Prince signed an executive order creating the commission in June 2020, shortly after the world watched Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin murder George Floyd.

The current vision for the mobile mental health team is a clinician-led model, where family members, teachers and anyone else who sees someone in crisis can call a special number and be referred to the mental health team. The unit would consist of professionals who specialize in crisis intervention and social work. Team members would respond to the crisis using their own vehicles.

Though the idea of a crisis response team dates back decades, recent calls for police reform have helped the concept gain traction.

In July, the United States first three-digit mental health hotline was launched. Instead of using 911, callers can now dial 988 to be connected with a trained mental health counselor. In addition, Senate Bill 1, which unanimously passed out of the Senate and was referred to the House on Feb. 13, calls for an expansion of mental health clinics across the state.

Earlier this month, members of the Interfaith Action Network joined hundreds of faith leaders at the statehouse to show their support for SB 1 and ask that the legislation be fully funded.

The goal of the mobile mental health unit is to deescalate volatile situations. According to a database kept by The Washington Post, 21% of the over 8,229 people fatally shot by police in the U.S. since 2015 had a mental illness.

The database shows that of the 154 people fatally shot by police in Indiana since 2015, 38 had a mental illness.

PHOTOS: Vigil held for teen fatally shot in Gary Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson Prayer vigil and balloon release for Orie Dodson
But cultural norms may be further ahead of the states legislature.

Buying real fur is not part of the conversation, to be honest, said Vanessa Shokrian, a wardrobe and editorial stylist in Los Angeles. People are not dying for it. I think faux fur has become an industry because of it.

Though, as the recent uproar over the Schiaparelli couture show  which prominently featured the fake heads of a snow leopard, wolf and lion adorned with silk pelts  demonstrated, even faux fur can prove controversial. (To complicate matters, fake fur is often made from plastics, making its status as sustainable a source of contention as well.)

Still, Ms. Pollard Bayme noted that some of her clients  many of whom are high profile  did own fur pieces, and they are still able to wear them under the current law. But were advising our clients to not wear fur in L.A., she said.

And while California may not be Paris, St. Moritz or Moscow, where fur is de rigueur, the state still has its own connection with the fur trade. People did used to wear them to the opera, at restaurants, movie premieres, tea parties, to the Oscars and, of course, in the movies, said Kimberly Chrisman-Campbell, the author of Worn on This Day: The Clothes That Made History.

Popular California designers of Hollywoods Golden Age, like Gilbert Adrian, who dressed Joan Crawford and Greta Garbo, and James Galanos, who outfitted Nancy Reagan and was popular among socialites, were known to use fur trimmings in their work. Mr. Galanos even had an entire licensed line, Galanos Furs.

There was a lot of fur, but if you look closely, its often a fur stole or a coat with a fur collar because it really was too hot, Ms. Chrisman-Campbell said.
38A. MOUE (Pouting expression) is another term I learned from crossword puzzles. I think we should bring this one back: The next time I see someone pouting, Im going to call out the MOUE (pronounced moo).

21D. Fun fact: The 1815 novel on which the film Clueless was based is EMMA, a book by Jane Austen about a woman who thinks she is a better matchmaker than she is. Austen really should have named her protagonist Cher.

42D. RENI is the surname of the Italian painter Guido. Im including this one here because its in Mr. Rockows rather cheeky constructor notes.

53D. Bobby of the Boston Bruins is not a tricky clue for longtime solvers, but I wanted to note my appreciation for this bonus reference to bears.

Todays Theme

This puzzle features four theme entries with shaded squares, as well as a central revealer that explains the purpose of those shaded squares. Because the revealer is in the center of the grid, I bearly (see what I did there?) had time to figure out the theme before  bam!  it was explained to me. That theme, per the revealer, is BEAR WITH ME (Please be patient  or a literal description of 15-, 28-, 39- and 52-Across?). Each of the theme entries contains, in shaded squares, the name of a type of BEAR and the word ME.
Twitter laid off at least 200 of its employees on Saturday night, three people familiar with the matter said, or about 10 percent of the roughly 2,000 who were still working for the company. Elon Musk, who acquired the social media platform in October, has steadily pared back its work force from about 7,500 employees as he has sought to reduce costs.

The layoffs came after a week when the company made it difficult for Twitter employees to communicate with each other. The companys internal messaging service, Slack, was taken offline, preventing employees from chatting with each other or looking up company data, five current and former employees told The New York Times. On Saturday night, some employees discovered that they were logged out of their corporate email accounts and laptops, three of the people said  the first hint that layoffs had begun.

By Sunday morning, the scope of the cuts was becoming clear. Some Twitter employees used the platform to post farewell messages, while workers who had kept their jobs scrambled to use encrypted messaging services like Signal to determine who else was left. By Saturday night, the remaining employees had also lost access to a Google chat service associated with their work email accounts, three people said.

The cuts hit product managers, data scientists and engineers who worked on machine learning and site reliability, which helps keep Twitters various features online. The monetization infrastructure team, which maintains the services through which Twitter makes money, was reduced to fewer than eight people from 30, a person familiar with the matter said.
Yellens surprise trip to Ukraine

One week after President Biden visited Kyiv, Janet Yellen, the U.S. treasury secretary, made an unannounced visit to the Ukrainian capital to emphasize the U.S. commitment to providing the money Ukraine needs to operate as the war enters a second year.

During the trip, Yellen met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and announced the transfer of $1.25 billion in economic assistance to Ukraine. She promised the U.S. would stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

The visit is part of a concerted diplomatic push by the Biden administration to show support for Ukraine while maintaining pressure on Russia. The secretary of state, Antony Blinken, will visit two former Soviet republics this week and is expected to urge them to maintain their distance from Russia as well as China.

Context: Yellen was involved in crafting the economic sanctions that the U.S. imposed on Russia during the war. She also devised the price cap that the U.S. and its allies enacted to limit the sale price for Russian oil. Her visit came amid an intensifying political debate about whether the U.S. can continue to provide billions of dollars to Ukraine.
Oil and gas companies laid off roughly 160,000 workers in 2020, and they maintained tight budgets and hired cautiously over the last two years. But many renewable businesses expanded rapidly after the early shock of the pandemic faded, snapping up geologists, engineers and other workers from the likes of Exxon and Chevron. Half of Fervos 38 employees come from fossil fuel companies, including BP, Hess and Chesapeake Energy.

Executives and workers in energy hubs in Houston, Dallas and other places say steady streams of people are moving from fossil fuel to renewable energy jobs. Its hard to track such movements in employment statistics, but the overall numbers suggest such career moves are becoming more common. Oil, gas and coal employment has not recovered to its prepandemic levels. But the number of jobs in renewable energy, including solar, wind, geothermal and battery businesses, is rising.

The oil and gas industry had roughly 700,000 fewer workers last year than six years earlier, a decline of over 20 percent. Much of that drop had to do with the slowing of the shale drilling boom and greater automation. By comparison, employment in wind energy grew nearly 20 percent from 2016 to 2021, to more than 113,000 workers.

In more than a dozen interviews, energy workers and executives said they had switched to renewable energy because they felt that the oil and gas industrys best days were behind it. Others said they were no longer willing to tolerate the extreme ups and downs of oil and gas prices, and the accompanying cycle of rapid hiring followed by crushing layoffs. Many said concerns about climate change, which is primarily caused by the burning of fossil fuels, were a factor in their decision.
Rupert Murdoch, chairman of the conservative media empire that owns Fox News, acknowledged in a deposition that several hosts for his networks promoted the false narrative that the 2020 election was stolen from former President Donald J. Trump, and that he could have stopped them but didnt, court documents released on Monday showed.

They endorsed, Mr. Murdoch said under oath in response to direct questions about the Fox hosts Sean Hannity, Jeanine Pirro, Lou Dobbs and Maria Bartiromo, according to a legal filing by Dominion Voting Systems. I would have liked us to be stronger in denouncing it in hindsight, he added, while also disclosing that he was always dubious of Mr. Trumps claims of widespread voter fraud.

Asked whether he doubted Mr. Trump, Mr. Murdoch responded: Yes. I mean, we thought everything was on the up-and-up. At the same time, he rejected the accusation that Fox News as a whole had endorsed the stolen election narrative. Not Fox, he said. No. Not Fox.

Mr. Murdochs remarks, which he made last month as part of Dominions $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox, added to the evidence that Dominion has accumulated as it tries to prove its central allegation: The people running the countrys most popular news network knew Mr. Trumps claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election were false but broadcast them anyway in a reckless pursuit of ratings and profit.
TD Bank, one of Canadas biggest lenders, said Monday that it had agreed to pay $1.2 billion to settle claims arising from a giant Ponzi scheme involving Stanford Financial, a scandal that erupted 14 years ago and cost ordinary investors some $7 billion.

The bank said it had reached the settlement with the Stanford Financial receiver, who is trying to recoup funds for investors, to avoid the distraction and uncertainty of protracted litigation. In a statement, TD, as Toronto-Dominion Bank is known, said it denied any wrongdoing or liability for having provided banking services to Stanfords offshore bank in Antigua.

The deal with TD was larger than settlements reached with four other banks: Trustmark National, Societe Generale, HSBC and Independent Bank, formerly Bank of Houston, according to the Stanford Financial receiver.

In all, the deals with the five banks, which provided services to Stanford Financial during its two decades in operation, totaled $1.6 billion. The receiver had been preparing to go to trial with some of the banks.
Mr. Bidens plan would cancel $20,000 in debt for those, like her, who received Pell grants, which aid students from low-income families. That would wipe out nearly all of Ms. Veneys undergraduate loans  making it easier for her to pursue the masters and Ph.D. degrees she hopes to attain. She aims to become a therapist and work with families and troubled youths.

The presidents plan would help reduce the racial wealth gap, she said. It would give not only me, but everyone, an opportunity to improve our financial security and lay a better foundation for upward economic mobility.

Mr. Biden has cast his debt relief plan as an essential step in restarting a student-loan collection system that has been frozen for nearly three years. The hiatus began as a two-month pause initiated by President Donald J. Trumps administration when the pandemic was ravaging the economy. Congress and Mr. Trump extended the hiatus three times, and Mr. Biden six more times, most recently in November. The president announced then that borrowers bills would resume 60 days after the court challenges to his relief plan were resolved or Sept. 1, whichever came sooner.

The piecemeal nature of the moratoriums extensions  and the continued uncertainty about when people will actually have to start paying  has frustrated both borrowers and the companies that bill them on the governments behalf. Nelnet, the largest federal loan servicer, laid off 350 newly hired employees last month, citing the likelihood that payments would remain paused for most of this year.
The scientists studying the powerful earthquakes that devastated parts of Turkey and Syria this month may bring new insights to a seismic zone that is strikingly similar: the San Andreas Fault in California.

The earthquake zones have much in common, with one long, major fault and scores of smaller, secondary ones. Using ground-based and satellite measurements, scientists are learning how the initial 7.8-magnitude quake in Turkey on Feb. 6 spawned aftershocks, including an unusually strong one on a secondary fault just hours after the first. That may help them better understand the potential strength and location of future quakes in California.

There is no question that were going to learn an enormous amount from the Turkish quakes, said Ross Stein, a seismologist formerly with the United States Geological Survey scientist and now a consultant.

In Californias recent history there have only been two quakes as powerful as the first Turkish one  the 7.9-magnitude San Francisco earthquake in 1906, and the Fort Tejon quake of 1857, which had a similar estimated magnitude and affected an area from the central part of the state southward to the east of Los Angeles.
When Shinobu Kato first tried sake as a young man in Tokyo, it tasted harsh and sharp to him. He hated it. But, he recalls, an older colleague told him that he was drinking cheap, poorly made sake. As he was introduced to better styles, Mr. Kato grew to love it.

When he moved to the United States in 2004 to study business at the University of Maryland, he could afford only the sorts of bad sake that had left such a terrible first impression. So he decided to brew his own, steaming and fermenting rice in his kitchen. To his surprise, he and his friends adored it.

Mr. Kato continued brewing sake after he moved to Nashville to work for Nissan. He grew so passionate about sake that, in 2016, with the encouragement of his wife, Ayako, he moved to Bushwick, Brooklyn, with the aim of opening his own sake brewery.

He equipped himself with small stainless steel vats from a brewery supply house, bought special rice grown in California and ordered yeast and other necessities by mail from Japan. Finally, in April 2020, just weeks into the Covid lockdown, Kato Sake Works opened in a tiny, 500-square-foot industrial space in Bushwick.
As a career strategic analyst and defense planner, including for Australias Defense Department, I have spent decades studying how a war could start, how it would play out and the military and nonmilitary operations that China is prepared to conduct. I am convinced that the challenges facing the United States are serious, and its citizens need to become better aware of them.

The military scenario alone is daunting: China would probably launch a lightning air, sea and cyber assault to seize control of key strategic targets on Taiwan within hours, before the United States and its allies could intervene. Taiwan is slightly bigger than the state of Maryland; if you recall how quickly Afghanistan and Kabul fell to the Taliban in 2021, you start to realize that the takeover of Taiwan could happen relatively quickly. China also has more than 1,350 ballistic and cruise missiles poised to strike U.S. and allied forces in Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and American-held territories in the Western Pacific. Then theres the sheer difficulty the United States would face waging war thousands of miles across the Pacific against an adversary that has the worlds largest navy and Asias biggest air force.

Despite this, U.S. military planners would prefer to fight a conventional war. But the Chinese are prepared to wage a much broader type of warfare that would reach deep into American society.

Over the past decade, China has increasingly viewed the United States as mired in political and social crises. Mr. Xi, who likes to say that the East is rising while the West is declining, evidently feels that Americas greatest weakness is on its home front. And I believe he is ready to exploit this with a multipronged campaign to divide Americans and undermine and exhaust their will to engage in a prolonged conflict  what Chinas military calls enemy disintegration.

Over the past two decades, China has built formidable political warfare and cyber warfare capabilities designed to penetrate, manipulate and disrupt the United States and allied governments, media organizations, businesses and civil society. If war were to break out, China can be expected to use this to disrupt communications and spread fake news and other disinformation. The aim would be to foster confusion, division and distrust and hinder decision making. China might compound this with electronic and probably some physical attacks on satellites or related infrastructure.
Since the 2020 campaign, Republicans have tried to portray Joe Biden as being too old to be president, as mentally deficient, as one small step away from death or disability. Democrats do themselves no favors when they let it be known, as they have in recent polling, that they too think he is too old to run again.

Democratic voters should have more respect for Mr. Bidens record as president and more confidence in the good judgment of the American people. His recent bravura performance at the State of the Union and his trip to Poland and Ukraine should compel even the most skeptical voters to admit that he is up to the job, at least at this moment. This month his doctor reported that Mr. Biden is healthy, vigorous and fit to carry out the duties of president.

His party should show a united front in support of his re-election. But even as we put our faith in Mr. Biden, the questions about his age and physical condition will not go away, and its fair for voters to want reassurances and decisions that show the White House will be in solid hands. He should take steps to make those reassurances, but he, Vice President Kamala Harris and the rest of the party should also consider making some bold decisions to address these actuarial concerns and show they are being taken seriously.

Focusing attention on the issue of succession  and spotlighting the strength of the Democratic bench in the process  would be one of the smartest, most persuasive ways of dealing with this dilemma. When considering who should be his running mate in 2024, Mr. Biden would do well to follow what Franklin D. Roosevelt did in 1944: He expressed a preference for certain candidates but turned the choice of his running mate over to the delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
KYIV, Ukraine  A year ago, the capital where I am now was under siege by Russian forces. Sounds of gunfire and explosions filled the streets; missiles rained down on this and other cities across Ukraine. Many people, including Vladimir Putin, expected that Ukraine would quickly collapse.

One year later, Russias barbaric attacks continue  but Kyiv stands strong and free.

Ukraines heroic resistance is the direct product of the courage and resilience of Ukraines military, leadership and people. But President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainians would be the first to admit that they cant do this alone  and that international support is crucial to sustaining their resistance.

Im in Kyiv to reaffirm our unwavering support of the Ukrainian people. Mr. Putin is counting on our global coalitions resolve to wane, which he thinks will give him the upper hand in the war. But he is wrong. As President Biden said here last week, America will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Most Americans understand the importance of our critical security support: tanks, ammunition, and air defense systems that equip Ukraines front lines. But there has been less public attention on the foundational role that our economic assistance plays in supporting Ukraines resistance.
To the Editor:

Re Bidens Promises on Social Security and Medicare Ignore Financial Reality, by Brian Riedl (Opinion guest essay, Feb. 23):

Mr. Riedl sets out the challenge posed by Social Security and Medicare programs in an aging country. Why have we come to this point? It is because the can has been kicked down the road for decades, and every time it is kicked it becomes bigger, so that it is now the size of an oil barrel.

As a society, we have preferred not to save for our old age but rather live as large as we could in the moment  this as recently as 2017 when we awarded ourselves a juicy tax cut.

Some members of the party that so enthusiastically pushed for and cheered that legislation are now sounding the Social Security/Medicare alarm.

Yes, everything must be on the table to address this issue (including the cost of our health care). Allow President Biden some latitude in setting out the political battle lines by shining a light on those lawmakers who see the solution mainly in terms of reneging on our promise to older Americans.
NASHVILLE  I have a dim memory of being taken on a boat ride in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge when I was 4 or 5. I remember tea-dark water lapping at the boat, a white bird on stilt legs and a drifting log that startled me by turning into an alligator. Thats it. Years later, I had to consult my brother to be sure I hadnt dreamed the whole thing up out of nothing but a word-besotted childs delight in the swamps name.

Last fall, in a moving essay for The Bitter Southerner, the writer Janisse Ray called the Okefenokee a gigantic, ethereal, god-touched swamp in southeast Georgia thats like no other place on earth. This is the kind of ecstatic language the refuge inevitably inspires. Some 700,000 people visit it each year, and I have always intended to return. Now Im worried I wont ever have the chance.

Twin Pines Minerals, an Alabama-based mining company, has applied to build a strip mine less than three miles from the wildlife refuge. The mining operation would target a geological formation called Trail Ridge, a raised area of land on the eastern border of the swamp. During prehistoric times, Trail Ridge was a barrier island. Today the ocean is some 45 miles away, and Trail Ridge functions as a low earthen dam that holds the Okefenokee in place. Trail Ridge is not only ecologically important in and of itself, notes the Georgia Conservancy, but also serves as scaffolding for the health of the Okefenokee.

But Trail Ridge contains titanium dioxide. Twin Pines proposes to extract the mineral by peeling off the topsoil, digging out the sand pits, separating the sand containing titanium and then returning the mineral-free sand to its approximate original location.
JINDIRES, Syria  She has no memory of the earthquake that broke her back and swallowed her daughters. Khaira Al Halbouni only knows what her husband told her afterward. In the middle of the night the building shook. He grabbed one daughter, Bisan, and their son, Ali. Take Mayas, their younger daughter, and run, he shouted.

Instinctively, she reached for her head scarf. Then, nothing.

The first thing Khaira remembers is waking up in a pile of rubble. She saw a small ray of light, then a pair of boots. She screamed. She looked for her daughter. Almost 30 hours had elapsed.

The boots belonged to rescue workers and neighbors looking for survivors. Eventually they pulled her out. Her spine was fractured, her arm broken, her cheekbone shattered. But she was alive. They took her to the hospital. The hospital was overwhelmed and undertook a grim triage: She was most likely suffering from internal bleeding and could not be saved. She was left to die.
In Culver City, the Schuelke twins caught four rats. One was snapped in a Victor trap in the garage during the night, its neck sliced by the razor blade. Two more were sucked into the Twin Ratvac in the living room. The fourth came as the brothers and two employees were cleaning up the kitchen on the second day of the job. As they moved the refrigerator, a rat jumped out from behind, and one of the employees sucked it up into a bucket with a vacuum.

The four men brought the bucket with the rat outside and opened the top. There was an inch of gray liquid at the bottom. The rat was wet, clawing at the smooth walls around it. One of the employees picked it up by its tail as Dave got a couple of close-up shots with his camera. The day was sunny, and a child was playing on a tire swing next door.

The Schuelkes often get comments on their YouTube videos shaming them for profiting from killing rats. Which kind of makes sense in a way, Dave said. But in the same token, there are too many rats and they need to be killed. He noted that he could try to save every rat he found and drive it 30 miles away. But how could he run a business doing that? And what other sorts of environmental damage would that do? Im not a believer in saving rats, he said. I dont have a heart for them. Cause theyre nasty.

After capturing the rat footage, Dave returned the animal to the bucket. His brother and employees went back to cleaning up the house. Dave stared at the rat and picked up a wooden two-by-four, painted white, that was lying on the ground. He located the rats head and crushed it with the short end of the beam. I dont want it to suffer, he said, as he pushed down with all his weight. The rat struggled for a moment, then stopped. Poor guy, Dave said, and gave the beam one last push for good measure.
Hottest, driest, lowest: Those three words are repeated often by rangers to describe Death Valley National Park, which straddles the California and Nevada borders and is the largest national park outside of Alaska. At 3.4 million acres, it is known for its blast-furnace summers, when temperatures have climbed as high as 134 degrees Fahrenheit.

Its just the die-hards here then, said a park shopkeeper, bagging my souvenir T-shirt on a trip to the park in January. You get exfoliated by blowing sand.

But less severe seasons allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of Death Valley, from snow-capped peaks that loom over salt flats to winding canyons with polished rock walls and volcanic hills splashed with pastel patches of minerals.

Angling to avoid extremes, I chose January from the park weather chart, when chilly 40-degree nights warm to perfect-for-hiking highs of 67. Most visitors prefer the warmer months of March and April, when park popularity peaks, with highs ranging from 82 to 90 degrees and lows running from 55 to 62. Summer is slowest, when peak temperatures hit 110 degrees and higher.
The Biden administration on Monday announced a wide crackdown on the labor exploitation of migrant children around the United States, including more aggressive investigations of companies benefiting from their work.

The development came days after The New York Times published an investigation into the explosive growth of migrant child labor throughout the United States. Children, who have been crossing the southern border without their parents in record numbers, are ending up in punishing jobs that flout child labor laws, The Times found.

The White House laid out a host of new initiatives to investigate child labor violations among employers and improve the basic support that migrant children receive when they are released to sponsors in the United States. Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, called the revelations in The Times heartbreaking and completely unacceptable.

As part of the new effort, the Department of Labor, which enforces these laws, said it would target not just the factories and suppliers that illegally employ children, but also the larger companies that have child labor in their supply chains. Migrant children often use false identification and find jobs through staffing agencies that do not verify their Social Security numbers.
Despite the storms that have deluged California this winter, the state remains dogged by drought. And one of the simplest solutions  collecting and storing rainfall  is far more complicated than it seems.

Much of Californias water infrastructure hinges on storing precipitation during the late fall and winter for use during the dry spring and summer. The states groundwater aquifers can hold vast quantities of water  far more than its major reservoirs.

But those aquifers have been significantly depleted in recent decades, especially in the Central Valley, where farmers have increasingly pumped out water for their crops. And as Raymond Zhong, a New York Times climate journalist, recently reported, the states strict regulations surrounding water rights limit the diversion of floodwaters for storage as groundwater, even during fierce storms like the atmospheric rivers this winter.

I talked to Raymond to learn more about the potential of Californias groundwater, and its limitations. Heres our conversation, edited for clarity and length:

How did this story come about?

I did a big story last year on flood risk in California and how climate change was increasing the risk of really strong storms. It was during the drought, and nobody in California was really thinking about the opposite problem, but they are two sides of the same hydrological equation. With climate change, you get both stronger storms and potentially longer and more intense droughts. In December and January, a bunch of strong storms swept through, and a lot of the concerns I was talking with experts about last year were realized.
CHICAGO  As residents of Chicago prepare to elect a mayor, they are staring at a highly uncertain picture: a race so wide open that even the incumbent, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who won every ward in the city in the final balloting four years ago, is not assured a spot in an expected runoff election.

Chicagoans will pick on Tuesday among nine candidates at a pivotal time to lead the city, which has wrestled since the pandemic with a spike in homicides and an emptier downtown. At least four of the candidates are seen as serious contenders to make it to an April 4 runoff, and Ms. Lightfoot finds herself in between candidates casting themselves to her political left, and also to her right.

In the final days of the race, Ms. Lightfoot has attempted to embrace her spot in the middle, arguing that the city needs to stay the course with her. Before a crowd at a union hall over the weekend, she accused one opponent of being an undercover Republican. Another, she said, would raise taxes and cut policing.

In addition to Ms. Lightfoot, the top tier of candidates includes Jesus G. Garcia, a progressive congressman; Brandon Johnson, a county commissioner endorsed by the local teachers union; and Paul Vallas, a former public school executive with a far more conservative platform on policing and education.
The changes in punishment came despite a wave of homicides, carjackings and property crimes in Washington that has many residents on edge and asking if now is the time to back away from strong deterrence. Congressional Republicans have seized the moment and are pressuring Democrats to join them in cracking down or be portrayed as lax on enforcement, part of an effort to make crime across the country a political issue.

Most Democrats oppose the bid to get involved in the Districts business, but dozens from conservative-leaning districts quietly embraced it in the House, reflecting concerns that the rollback of sentences was too drastic and a recognition of the risks of being labeled soft on crime. Similar attempts at enacting more progressive sentencing and bail laws have sparked a political backlash around the country, including in San Francisco, where a prosecutor was ousted for perceived leniency toward offenders, and New York, where Mayor Eric Adams was elected with a tough-on-crime message.

The House passed the bill to roll back the D.C. criminal code revisions this month with 31 Democrats in favor. With all 49 Senate Republicans in support, its sponsors say they expect to be able to break away at least the two Democrats in that chamber needed to send the measure to the White House. Mr. Biden would then face the first veto decision of his presidency on a subject likely to be front and center in next years elections.

I cant believe President Biden wants to encourage more crime here in the District of Columbia, said Senator Bill Hagerty, a first-term Republican from Tennessee who is the chief backer of what is known as a resolution of disapproval.

Most Democrats assert that it is none of Congresss business what locally elected officials in Washington do, though the Constitution gives lawmakers final say over District laws.
That could include building company child-care centers near construction sites or new plants, paying local child-care providers to add capacity at an affordable cost for workers, directly subsidizing workers care costs or other, similar steps that would ensure workers have access to care for their children.

American employers, including manufacturers, are increasingly raising concerns that a lack of access to affordable child care is blocking millions of Americans from looking for work, particularly women. President Biden pushed Congress to address those concerns over the last two years, proposing hundreds of billions of dollars for new child care programs, but he was unable to corral support from even a majority of Senate Democrats.

But Mr. Biden did convince lawmakers to approve a range of new spending programs seeking to boost American manufacturing. Now, Commerce is trying to utilize a centerpiece of those efforts, which aims to expand American semiconductor manufacturing, to make at least a small dent in his large goals for the so-called care economy.

It joins a growing list of administration efforts to expand the reach of Mr. Bidens economic policies beyond their primary intent. For instance, administration officials have attached stringent labor standards and Buy America provisions to money from a bipartisan infrastructure law. The child care requirement will be flexible for chip makers, but it will almost certainly divert some subsidy dollars that are meant to expand factory capacity and create jobs.

The Commerce Department is expected to release its application on Tuesday, allowing companies to begin making a case for federal subsidies that the industry lobbied hard to secure from Congress.
In 2013, the House of Representatives had a single Indian American member. Fewer than 10 Indian Americans were serving in state legislatures. None had been elected to the Senate. None had run for president. Despite being one of the largest immigrant groups in the United States, Americans of Indian descent were barely represented in politics.

Ten years later, the Congress sworn in last month includes five Indian Americans. Nearly 50 are in state legislatures. The vice president is Indian American. Nikki Haleys campaign announcement this month makes 2024 the third consecutive cycle in which an Indian American has run for president, and Vivek Ramaswamys newly announced candidacy makes it the first cycle with two.

In parts of the government, weve gone literally from having no one to getting close to parity, said Neil Makhija, the executive director of Impact, an Indian American advocacy group.

Most Indian American voters are Democrats, and it is an open question how much of their support Ms. Haley might muster. In the past, when Indian Americans have run as Republicans, they have rarely talked much about their family histories, but Ms. Haley is emphasizing her background.
Mr. Pence held private meetings in New York City with an undisclosed number of potential donors, part of his efforts as he considers running for president. He has been in New York a number of times, making media appearances but also forging connections with Republican donors who liked aspects of the Trump-era policies but did not care for Mr. Trumps behavior.

This week, Mr. Youngkin will sit with a string of people. Among them will be John Catsimatidis, a grocery store magnate who has historically been a politically ambidextrous donor, but who had a long history with Mr. Trump.

It remains unclear what Mr. Youngkins intentions are for 2024, and to what end he is holding meetings beyond his current job. People familiar with his thinking had said he had anticipated that Mr. Trump would be in a stronger position after the 2022 midterms than he ended up being in, and now that the field is likely to be more crowded than expected, its not clear that the governor  who is barred from seeking re-election in Virginia  will want to try to join them.

Still, his visit to New York City as the presidential primary is forming has caught notice. Mr. Youngkin, a former Carlyle Group C.E.O., has many ties in the financial community, which is heavy with donors. An aide said Mr. Youngkin wouldnt address fund-raising until after the Virginia legislative session ends. The aide said Mr. Youngkins fund-raising discussions were expected to concern Virginias fall legislative elections.
BALEDOGLE, Somalia  The promise and perils of Americas counterterrorism campaign were on full display at a remote training base in central Somalia.

It was graduation day for 346 recruits who would join an elite Somali commando unit trained by the State Department, advised by U.S. Special Operations forces, and backed by American air power.

Since last August, the unit, called Danab, has spearheaded a string of Somali army victories against Al Shabab, an Islamist terrorist group that is considered the deadliest of Al Qaedas global branches.

Were more dedicated than ever, said Second Lt. Shukri Yusuf Ali, 24, who joined the unit two years ago as one of its few female members and was recently selected to attend the U.S. Army infantry training course at Fort Benning, Ga.
WASHINGTON  The Supreme Court agreed on Monday to hear a case that could hobble the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and advance a key project of the conservative legal movement: to limit the power of independent agencies.

A ruling against the bureau, created as part of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act after the financial crisis, could cast doubt on every regulation and enforcement action it took in the dozen years of its existence. That includes extensive rules  and punishments against companies that flout them  that the agency has written to govern mortgages, credit cards, consumer loans and banking.

The central question in the case, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau v. Community Financial Services Association of America, No. 22-448, is whether the way Congress chose to fund the agency violated the Appropriations Clause of the Constitution, which says that no money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in consequence of appropriations made by law.

A unanimous three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, in New Orleans, ruled in October that the bureaus funding mechanism ran afoul of that clause.
QADIS, Afghanistan  When the temperatures plunged far below freezing in Niaz Mohammads village last month, the father of three struggled to keep his family warm. One particularly cold night, he piled every stick and every shrub he had collected into their small wood stove. He scavenged for trash that might burn, covered the windows with plastic tarps and held his 2-month-old son close to his chest.

But the cold was merciless. Freezing winds whistled through cracks in the wall. Ice crept across the room: It covered the windows, then the walls, then the thick red blanket wrapped around Mr. Mohammads wailing son.

Soon the infant fell silent in his arms. His tears turned to ice that clung to his face. By daybreak, he was gone.

The cold took him, Mr. Mohammad, 30, told visiting journalists for The New York Times, describing the details of that horrible night.
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is flying on Tuesday into the heart of what Moscow considers its sphere of influence to urge senior Central Asian officials convening in Kazakhstan to maintain independence from Russia and China.

The meetings come at a critical juncture in American efforts to head off Moscows global efforts to seek economic aid  and in some cases military aid  as the United States and its allies rush new weapons into Ukraine to try to give the Ukrainians a battlefield advantage over Russian troops.

Mr. Blinkens trip is the first by any Biden cabinet official to Central Asia, while both President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and President Xi Jinping of China  who are competing to expand their nations influence across the region  made visits in September.

Foreign ministers from five Central Asian republics that broke away from the Soviet Union  Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan  are scheduled to meet one on one with Mr. Blinken and to hold formal group discussions with him and other senior U.S. officials. The United States knows these nations, which still have strong ties to Moscow, are unlikely to strain those relations.
China accused the United States of politicizing the coronavirus pandemic again on Monday, in response to reports that the Energy Department had concluded that an accidental laboratory leak had likely triggered the spread of Covid worldwide.

The rebuke marks the latest salvo in a running war of words between the two countries over the origins of the virus, an issue that has taken on as much of a political dimension as a scientific one as the rivalry between the two superpowers deepens.

Covid tracing is a scientific issue that should not be politicized, Mao Ning, a Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, said of the Energy Departments conclusion. She then repeated calls for the United States to stop defaming China by raising the lab leak theory.

Chinas response adds to the growing friction between Washington and Beijing this month, following a spy balloon incident and U.S. accusations that China was considering supplying Russia with weapons and ammunition for use in Ukraine.
ROME  A decade ago, a rickety trawler overstuffed with desperate migrants caught fire and capsized just off the coast of Italy, killing 368 men, women and children. In the aftermath, the European Union delivered tens of millions in financial aid to Italy, vowed to strengthen rescue operations and hammer out a more effective bloc-wide migration and asylum policy.

We will do anything we can, with the means that we have, to change the situation, Jose Manuel Barroso, then the president of the European Commission, said at the time.

But a horrific shipwreck on Sunday about a hundred yards from Italys Calabrian coast, which killed at least 63 people, including many children, has made it painfully clear that the situation has not changed. If anything, the blocs consensus against migrants has broadened and hardened.

Coastal nations have transitioned from an emphasis on search-and-rescue ships. Italy has talked of naval blockades, and Greece has secretly expelled refugees on inflatable and sometimes overburdened life rafts. European officials, while once again expressing sorrow over the weekend and making promises, have sought to outsource the issue, at great expense, to countries with worrisome human rights records across the sea.
The skies of Britain and Ireland were painted in green, purple and deep red Sunday night, as the spectacular auroras, typical of remote latitudes, became visible as south as Kent or Cornwall.

Some Britons managed to get a glimpse of the colorful glow of the northern lights from their homes, something that usually requires long travels and overnight camping in ice-covered strips of Greenland or Iceland, or the northern parts of Scandinavia.

Joel Rabinowitz, 26, left his home in St. Albans, a town about 20 miles north of London, Sunday night to go to a nearby forest when he heard that the northern lights might be visible across Britain. To his surprise, he saw the auroras pink flush above the dark trees.

I would have never expected that to happen here, said Mr. Rabinowitz, who had taken trips to Norway and Finland to see the northern lights before. It was crazy really.
LYMAN, Ukraine  Peering through an infrared scope, a Ukrainian soldier noticed some heads poking over a trench a few dozen yards away.

Are there any of our guys in front of us? he asked, according to an account of the ensuing firefight by fellow Ukrainian soldiers.

There were not. Two Ukrainians crept forward into the muddy wasteland of artillery craters between the two trench lines outside the eastern city of Lyman, eventually reaching the wreckage of an armored personnel carrier. Using it as cover to shoot from an unexpected angle, they forced the Russians to retreat. When it was over, they found the body of one soldier.

Every day, sometimes more than once a day, small groups come forward and try to take our positions, said one of the Ukrainian soldiers who participated in the fight, and who asked to be identified only by his nickname, Diesel, for security reasons.
A week after President Biden traveled to Ukraine to pledge American support in the fight to repel Russia, he has dispatched two senior cabinet members to redouble efforts to prop up the Ukrainian economy and to try to curb the Kremlins ability to skirt Western sanctions.

The visits, by Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen to the capital, Kyiv, and Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken into the heart of what Moscow considers its sphere of influence in Central Asia, underscore the Biden administrations commitment to blocking Moscows ambitions in Ukraine as the war enters its second year.

The diplomatic moves by the Biden administration come as President Vladimir V. Putin has spent the past year seeking to reinforce Russias influence in Central Asia and to deepen ties with China, which the United States has said is preparing to provide more overt assistance to Moscow.

Mr. Blinken was to arrive on Tuesday in Kazakhstan to urge senior Central Asian officials from the former Soviet republics convening there to maintain their independence from Russia and China and not to be complicit in Moscows attempts to evade sanctions.
JERUSALEM  Ahmed Qurei, a former Palestinian prime minister and negotiator who helped conceive and nurture the Oslo Accords, the interim peace agreements reached between the Palestine Liberation Organization and Israel in the 1990s, died on Wednesday in Ramallah, in the West Bank. He was 86.

His death was confirmed by the president of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, a longtime comrade  and sometimes rival  who eulogized Mr. Qurei as a solid fighter who devoted his life to defending the Palestinian people and cause. Mr. Qureis longtime chief of staff, Salah Elayan, said that he died of an infection at a hospital and that he had suffered from heart problems.

Mr. Qurei (pronounced kuh-RAY) was a member of the dwindling Palestinian old guard  activists who joined Yasir Arafat and his secular Fatah movement, founded in exile in 1959, and who strived to put the Palestinian cause on the world agenda, whether through diplomacy or armed struggle.

In late 1992, while on a working visit to London, Mr. Qurei met with an Israeli academic, Yair Hirschfeld, who had asked to see him. At the time it was technically illegal for Israelis to meet with P.L.O. officials, but the meeting led to secret talks in Norway sanctioned by Israeli officials, with Mr. Qurei acting as the lead negotiator for the Palestinian side.
When a Palestinian gunman killed two Israeli settlers on Sunday afternoon in the northern part of the occupied West Bank, residents of nearby Palestinian towns knew from long experience to await sporadic acts of revenge.

But few anticipated the systematic ferocity with which mobs from nearby Israeli settlements responded that night.

Settlers burned and vandalized at least 200 buildings in four Palestinian villages, according to initial tallies from Israeli rights groups and Palestinian officials, and a Palestinian official said that one Palestinian had been killed in the settler attack.

It was one of the most intense episodes of settler-led violence in memory, standing out even in a year with the deadliest start in the West Bank since 2000. It came on a day when Israeli and Palestinian leaders and their regional neighbors met in Jordan to try to calm the crisis.
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake struck southern Turkey on Monday, killing at least one person and trapping others in collapsed buildings three weeks after a devastating quake struck the same region, leaving more than 50,000 people dead in the country and in neighboring Syria.

The latest quake struck just after noon on Monday, south of the city of Malatya, according to the United States Geological Survey. Malatya is the capital of the province of the same name, one of 11 Turkish regions affected by the Feb. 6 tremor.

Yunus Sezer, the head of Turkeys emergency response agency, said that at least one person had been killed and 69 injured in the latest quake. He urged people in the affected region not to enter damaged buildings for fear of aftershocks or further collapses. The agency said that 29 buildings in Malatya had collapsed and that five people had been rescued from the rubble. Rescuers were also searching for survivors from seven other buildings.

One previously damaged building collapsed, trapping in the rubble a father and daughter who had returned to their apartment to collect their belongings in the town of Yesilyurt, near the new quakes epicenter, according to Haberturk TV, which was broadcasting from the scene. Both father and daughter were later rescued.
LONDON  Its a border that needs to exist in two places, and also nowhere.

Britains 2016 vote to leave the European Union left many questions unanswered, but the most intractable, and potentially poisonous, was about Northern Ireland.

The territory is part of the United Kingdom, but it shares a land border with Ireland, a member of the European Union. Negotiators have repeatedly struggled to find a way to allow goods to move smoothly across the Irish Sea between Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom, without threatening the open border between Northern Ireland and Ireland  dividing lines whose significance goes far beyond trade.

In late February, almost seven years after the Brexit referendum, the two sides signed a new deal, called the Windsor Framework, that promises to smooth over at least some of those contradictions, and British lawmakers overwhelmingly backed a key part of the deal on Wednesday.

The stakes are high. Some in Brussels have spoken of a threat to the integrity of the European Unions single economic market; some in London and Belfast of a threat to the coherence of the United Kingdom; and there were concerns about the fragility of peace in Northern Ireland, a region where decades of sectarian violence left several thousand dead.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration is expected this week to ramp up a political battle over a high-profile warrantless surveillance program that traces back to the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. A 2008 statute that legalized the program, known as Section 702, will expire at the end of December unless Congress votes to extend it.

A top national security official at the Justice Department is expected to urge Congress to reauthorize Section 702 during a speech at the Brookings Institution on Tuesday. Top F.B.I. and National Security Agency officials have already asked lawmakers to do so, portraying the authority as critical for gathering foreign intelligence and protecting against threats stemming from overseas hackers, spy services and terrorists.

But civil liberties advocates have opposed Section 702 or pushed for tighter limits on the program because it sweeps in Americans messages, too. This reauthorization cycle, those skeptics have backing among Republicans who have aligned themselves with former President Donald J. Trumps distrust of security agencies and surveillance.

Here is a closer look.

What is Section 702?

It is a law that allows the government to collect  on domestic soil and without a warrant  the communications of targeted foreigners abroad, including when those people are interacting with Americans.


Pacific Surfliner Needs PR Engineer Mon., Apr. 10, 2023 The Los Angeles-San Diego-San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor Agency wants a digital marketing firm to promote visibility and recover ridership that the Pacific Surfliner brand lost during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has budgeted $200K for the one-year effort.
A multi-talented young musician from a well know local band is among those hoping to be crowned the Offaly Rose of Tralee this year.

Ballycumber's Katelynn Kelly gets acknowledged for her hard work. You could meet her anywhere - from working full time in a coffee shop Kafe U in Clara to playing on stage anywhere in Ireland.

Katelynn gigs with a lively Irish music band three or four nights a week. She plays banjo, fiddle and sings in the band 'The Jiggers of Eireann'.

The band is well known for sharing the stage with excellent musicians such as All Folk'D Up, The Whistling Donkeys and The Tumbling Paddies.

Katelynn is described as a very lighthearted person and is always up for a laugh.

She won't be short supporters of supporters on Selection Night as she is from a large family of eighteen and will be boosted by the support from her family and friends from her hometown of Ballycumber and her music family from near and far.

This years Offaly Rose Selection night will take place on Saturday, April 29 in the Tullamore Court Hotel.

For more details and to find out how you can enter, check out the Offaly Rose Centre by CLICKING HERE
A woman, when charged, answered, "I had the axe. Sure I pleaded to it," after she was cautioned, last week's Tullamore district court heard.

Garda Conor Shields was giving evidence in the case of Carina O'Sullivan (52), of 27, Cloncollig Est, Tullamore, who was charged with producing an axe in the course of a dispute on May 3, 2022.

Gardai were objecting to bail on the grounds that Ms O'Sullivan had been in breach of two of the bail conditions imposed on her by the court on May 4, 2022. The breaches occurred on January 1, 2023.

Ms O'Sullivan is charged with damaging the front window pane of a house and displacing it belonging to Daniel Hickey, and with assaulting Mr Hickey on July 7, 2021 and assaulting Rebecca Power on January 12, 2021.

Her bail conditions include having no contact with Daniel Hickey and Rebecca Power.

Kelle Power was in court to give evidence. She lives next door to Carina O'Sullivan.

In the witness stand she said Carina O'Sullivan's daughter Shannon, had claimed that Ms Power's nephew Brandon, had tried to run her over in his car. She also claimed that Carina O'Sullivan had shouted ''come out and fight, you are nothing but window warriors. She keeps getting away with it,'' said Ms Power.

Solicitor Donal Farrelly put it to Ms Power that Carina O' Sullivan had been living 8 years at the above address while she had been there for just two years.

Ms Power claimed the reason she got the house was because the previous owner had moved out due to Carina O'Sullivan. Judge Andrew Cody advised Ms Power to confine herself to the breaches of bail.

Solicitor Donal Farrelly put it to Ms Power that she herself had been in court for an offence.

Ms Power agreed that she had. He also put it to her that her father is bound over to the peace. Again Ms Power said yes.

Mr Farrelly said that Ms Power and her family had been calling Carina O'Sullivan names on tiktok. Ms Power said it wasn't on her tiktok account. Donal Farrelly told the judge that Carina O'Sullivan had spent time in a mental hospital.

Garda Shields said 40 incidents had been reported to the Gardai. He said there were various tiktok accounts, most in relation to incidents at Cloncollig. He said he hadn't been able to verify if they were about Carina O'Sullivan. He said it would suggest they are about her but do not name her.

Carina O'Sullivan said this has been going on for some months. She admitted calling them window warriors and to come out and fight. She said she had felt a panic attack coming on.

Judge Andrew Cody reminded Ms O'Sullivan that she had signed a bail bond and was released on bail. He told her she had 10 or 11 charges pending and she could do time in prison.

''It means shutting your gob,'' he said. He remarked that Ms Power was ''pretty gobby herself''.

He said he was not going to revoke bail, but if there were any more incidents he would. He put the case back to March 7 for finalisation. There should be no breaches and it's up to everybody to keep the temperature down, he said.

Kelle Power began to clap as Carina O'Sullivan was granted bail, commenting that she had given a great performance. Judge Cody told her there was to be no clapping in court. ''We are not Britain's Got Talent'' he said. He told her if she did that again he would give her 7 days in prison.

Ms Power apologised saying ''sorry your honour. We have been through an awful lot.''
Senior representatives from nine countries, as well as Palestinian representatives, are visiting Damascus looking to end the decade-long isolation of Bashar al-Assad.
Why U.S. overreaction to Chinese airship is ludicrous, dangerous?

Xinhua) 09:43, February 27, 2023

BEIJING, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Despite China's repeated explanation that the entry of a Chinese civilian unmanned airship into U.S. airspace was an entirely unintended, unexpected and isolated event caused by force majeure, the United States, without any evidence, slandered the airship as a "spy balloon" and abused force to shoot it down.

Washington's "unthinkable and hysterical action" blatantly violated its obligations under the Chicago Convention and many basic principles of international law, as some U.S. politicians insisted on such absurd things only for their own political need at the expense of China-U.S. relations.

ABUSE OF FORCE

Weather balloons are regularly launched around the world for weather forecasting and scientific research. Every day, free-rising latex balloons are released from almost 900 locations worldwide, with nearly 1,000 balloons gathering daily observations that provide input in real-time, the UN World Meteorological Organization counted.

However, in the first two weeks of February, U.S. fighter jets shot down four objects flying over North America, including the Chinese civilian balloon that the Pentagon said "does not present a military or physical threat to people on the ground," or a significant risk of intelligence collection.

U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday also admitted the other three objects were "most likely tied to private companies, recreation or research institutions."

"A lot of balloons are flying over the Earth every day. Does the U.S. want to shoot them all down?" senior Chinese diplomat Wang Yi raised the question on the sidelines of the 59th Munich Security Conference.

Washington's drastic reaction to the weather balloon not only goes against scientific common sense, but also violates customary international practice and conventions.

Above all, any international dispute shall be settled by peaceful means so that international peace, security and justice are not endangered, according to the UN Charter.

Based on general principles of international law, in the circumstances of force majeure, distress and necessity, aircraft unauthorized to enter other countries' airspace shall be exempt of legal liability.

Since last year, U.S. balloons have illegally flown over China's airspace more than 10 times without the approval of relevant authorities. But China handled those illegal flights in a calm and professional manner. That has demonstrated Beijing's respect for international law and sincerity in properly managing China-U.S. relations.

As far as the "stray balloon" is concerned, China has clearly asked the U.S. side to properly handle the matter in a calm, professional and restrained manner, whereas the United States used "the most advanced U.S. weapons systems" -- as depicted by The Washington Post -- to eliminate the object.

Clearly, Washington has resorted again to double standards. In 2016, China seized an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) -- later claimed by the Pentagon -- in the South China Sea to prevent it from harming navigational and personnel safety of passing ships. The U.S. Defense Department called on China to "return our UUV immediately and to comply with all of its obligations under international law." Its urge stands in sharp contrast with its downing of the four civilian aerial objects.

SUPERPOWER OF SURVEILLANCE

The United States, as a superpower of surveillance, has a long history of sending surveillance balloons and blimps beyond its borders to gather intelligence. That helps explain why the ill-grounded "spy balloon" narrative can raise mass hysteria in U.S. media and political community.

Before the Lockheed U-2 reconnaissance aircraft and spy satellites came into service, the U.S. Air Force had developed reconnaissance balloon programs known as WS-119L and WS-461L for the mission of collecting intelligence over Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union between the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Nowadays, as the center of gravity for global Internet and intelligence activity, the United States has further consolidated its privileged position to monitor. Among the countries it snoops on is China, which has been harassed by U.S. spy devices multiple times over the past few years.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed in June 2022 that the United States has deployed many military aircraft and warships in the South China Sea on a regular basis and its reconnaissance aircraft have electronically impersonated civil aircraft of other countries there time and again.

The ministry said, citing statistics from institutions with professional knowledge, that the number of the U.S. close-in military reconnaissance missions against China has more than doubled compared with a decade ago.

In September last year, China's National Computer Virus Emergency Response Center and cybersecurity company 360 respectively released investigation reports on the attacks on China's Northwestern Polytechnical University from the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), which showed that the agency's Tailored Access Operations unit mounted hundreds of thousands malicious cyberattacks targeting Chinese objectives.

Permeating through every part of the world, the U.S. surveillance network also targets Washington's allies.

In May 2021, Denmark's national broadcaster DR News reported that the Danish Defense Intelligence Service had given the NSA open Internet access to spy on targeted heads of state, as well as Scandinavian leaders, top politicians, and high-ranking officials in Germany, Sweden, Norway and France, including then German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

That was not unfamiliar to European leaders. In 2013, former NSA contractor Edward Snowden revealed that Washington had been spying on the email and cell phone communications of as many as 35 world leaders.

Snowden also disclosed that a U.S. surveillance program codenamed Stateroom ordered the installment of secret intelligence equipment in some 100 foreign diplomatic embassies and consulates in other countries for spying.

"Washington is losing its moral ground," the German magazine Focus once quoted an expert on foreign policy as saying.

With its global surveillance network, "the United States itself is the true eavesdropper," Focus said, though the country prefers to frame itself as a victim of spying.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Unlike many of its allies, Australia has not restored its diplomatic presence in Kyiv, which it withdrew right before Russias invasion last year.
Belarusian anti-government activists claimed an attack on a Russian surveillance aircraft near Minsk with a drone. Russia said China's peace plan should be carefully analyzed. DW rounds up the latest.
US intelligence chief William Burns says there appear to be doubts in Beijing about China's ability to successfully invade Taiwan. However, he said it was still important to take the threat to the island very seriously.
The PM's in-person meeting with Ursula von der Leyen over a new Brexit deal for Northern Ireland dominates many of Monday's front pages.
euronews (in English) 28 Feb 2023

The parliament in Helsinki is to debate and vote on joining the alliance without waiting for Sweden, or the approval of Turkey and..
Ursula von der Leyen will meet with the King this afternoon as she discusses changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol in Windsor with the prime minister, Sky News understands.
At a session of the UN Human Rights Council, Ukraine condemned Russia's alleged systematic deportation of Ukrainian children. Germany's foreign minister vowed allies would "not rest until all these kids are home."
Andrew Tate's appeal against a 30-day extension of his detention in Romania has been denied by a court, meaning the social media influencer will remain in prision.
The EU and UK want to put an end to more than a year of wrangling over post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland. Will the new deal mend strained ties between Belfast, London and Brussels?
The federal government says the video app is an "unacceptable" risk to privacy and security.
Delhi Deputy CM and AAP leader Manish Sisodia were arrested by the CBI in relation to the Delhi liquor policy scam case, on the charges of corruption.
Eurasia Review 26 Feb 2023

They seem all to hate each other. Looking at the map from the East, one observes the Chinese and the Philippines and they compete..
Sir Keir Starmer has set out a plan to secure the highest sustained growth in the G7 as he called on voters to judge if they feel better off after five years of a Labour government.
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There had been a rallying cry by pro-refugee groups around the country to attend several demonstrations in Cornwall and other parts of the UK.
The PM says the Brexit agreement for Northern Ireland is a breakthrough, as many Tory MPs express support.
They seem all to hate each other. Looking at the map from the East, one observes the Chinese and the Philippines and they compete and fight over the South China Sea, and of course the smaller power, the Philippines, calls for help from a bigger nation, the United States of America.



Not far from there, is the island of Taiwan,...
Russian forces have attacked almost two dozen communities near Bakhmut, a Donetsk region city and the focus of much of the fighting in recent weeks.


An unverified claim of responsibility by the New IRA for the shooting of an off-duty detective is being investigated by police in..

Sky News 27 Feb 2023
China said on Monday it sought dialogue and a peaceful solution for Ukraine despite US warnings that Beijing might be considering weapons supplies for its ally Russia's invasion.
Tens of thousands of public sector workers will strike on 15 March and work to rule indefinitely after voting overwhelmingly for industrial action over pay. The civil service members of Prospect union work for organisations such as the Met Office, Health and Safety Executive and Natural England.



#prospect #naturalengland #pcs #teachers #neu #mikeclancy #fda #jeremyquin #cabinetoffice
"The List" is PAPER's monthly roundup of the newest arrivals, capsules and collaborations. Scroll through, below, to see February's biggest fashion news.

Michael B. Jordan Lands First Calvin Klein Campaign Courtesy of Calvin Klein/ Mert and Marcus Michael B. Jordan strips down for his first-ever Calvin Klein campaign, photographed by Mert and Marcus, where he models a range of their new underwear styles. The images will be displayed on the brand's signature Houston St. and La Cienega billboards in SoHo starting today February 27.

Maison Margiela x Gentle Monster Courtesy of Gentle Monster

Maison Margiela x Gentle Monster have partnered to launch a new eyewear collection featuring eleven designs in sunglasses and optical frames that incorporate genuine threaded details of Maison Margielas signature stitch logo. Prices range from: $320-$680. Available starting February 28 at Gentle Monster and Maison Margiela on/offline stores

le PERE Launches First Fragrance Courtesy of le PERE Launched in the middle of New York Fashion Week, emerging menswear label le PERE debuted its first-ever fragrance crafted with the French perfumer Blaise Mautin. The scent includes notes of patchouli, santal, vanilla, musk and cedar. This is a very personal collaboration for me, said Mautin. We set out to create a fragrance drenched in the heart of the fantasy of le PERE and the result is something that even surprised myself  full of force and courage  waves of sensitivity, sensuality, and masculinity, one after the other until whats left is something very rare and special. Available now for $200 at lepere.com

Givenchy Voyou Bag Courtesy of Givenchy

First seen on the Givenchy runway in Paris last September, the Voyou bag is a new style from the brand under Matthew M. Williams. "I wanted to revisit fashion archetypes with a kind of new language and a playful attitude," he says. "With the Voyou, you know at a glance that it's Parisian, but it's at home wherever it goes, and it makes an everyday style statement that has true staying power." It also features prominently in Givenchy's Spring campaign featuring Gigi Hadid. Available now at Givenchy stores and Givenchy.com

Dsquared2 Buddy by MySecretCase Courtesy of Dsquared2 Dsquared2 is getting into sex toys with the launch of a new collab with MySecretCase. The USB-chargable collection consists of a clitoral sucker, dildo and a penis ring made in a soft skin-safe waterproof silicone all featuring the Dsquared2 logo. Available now at Dsquared2.com

CDLP Adds Jockstraps to Core Collection Courtesy of CDLP/ Clifton Mooney

Fans of Swedish label CDLP's tonal, minimalist underwear can now enjoy the same luxe experience with jockstraps. The brand, which launched the category briefly 2018 and 2020 in limited-edition styles, is officially reintroducing jockstraps to their core collection. The super soft silk-like fabric is lyocell, and the waistband is tonal black with signature CDLP debossed logo. Available now at CDLP.com

COS x YEBOAH Courtesy of COS

COS and emerging designer Reece Yeboah join forces to launch his namesake brand YEBOAH with a new collaboration. The collection developed with COS combines street-luxe wear with contemporary tailoring codes. Available now at CosStores.com

Rimowa x Palace Courtesy of Rimowa
Photo: (Photo : Douglas P. DeFelice / Getty Images)

A missing toddler was miraculously found alive in the woods of Florida after a 24-hour intensive search.

A toddler named Joshua, nicknamed JJ, who is two years old and from Brooksville, Florida, was discovered in the forest by a retired marine who volunteered to help find him. JJ went missing on Thursday morning.

According to ABC, Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis, JJ was last seen playing with dogs in the yard at around 10 a.m. that day. It's believed that he left home while his parents were still asleep.

Missing toddler found alive in Florida woods

When JJ's mother woke up and realized he was missing, she said she had no idea what had happened to him. She searched for him for about an hour before contacting the authorities.

JJ was wearing a Batman t-shirt and gray pajama bottoms, and this information was included in the alert that was issued after he was reported missing.

JJ's name was included in a statewide alert for missing children that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued on Friday evening.

Law enforcement officials and volunteers from the community searched overnight, with over 500 volunteers turning out Friday morning to help in the search.

Nearly 100 law enforcement officials participated in the search, using various methods such as ATVs, horses, infrared cameras, and helicopters.

After spending the night alone, JJ was eventually found by Roy Link, a retired marine and one of the volunteers. Link said that JJ was so scared he wouldn't let him go.

Link shared with the group that he had been praying for approximately ten minutes before discovering JJ. The sheriff referred to Link as the "man of the year" and JJ's rescue as a "true miracle."

He also told reporters that he had been hoping and praying for a miracle and that so many other people were praying was a testament to the power of prayer.

Read Also: $500 Million Education Plan: Oklahoma House Republicans Proposal to Support Teachers, Students

Collaboration of law enforcement and the community led to JJ's return

As per Fox News, the missing toddler who captured the attention of many was found safe by a volunteer, Roy Link, about half a mile north of his home in Brooksville, near Tampa.

The child was photographed barefoot and grazed but smiling in the arms of the volunteer who discovered him.

JJ's mother spent about an hour looking for him before alerting the authorities. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued a statewide Missing Child Alert on Friday evening, and helicopters searched overnight.

JJ was found in the woods, quite far from home, and had spent the night in the elements.

Unfortunately, scattered across the young boy's body were scratches and what looked to be nettle stings, and his face was covered in what looked like mosquito bites.

According to the Daily Mail, Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis said at a news conference that JJ was doing well, considering the ordeal he had been through.

The father expressed gratitude to the community, law enforcement officials, and the people who volunteered their time to help find his little boy.

He said he and his wife were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and kindness from people they didn't even know. JJ's aunt also thanked everyone for their help and said that she couldn't put into words how thankful the family is to have their little toddler back safe and sound.

Related Article: Macklemore Empowers 7-Year-Old Daughter to Direct New 'No Bad Days' Music Video
Photo: (Photo : Ilya S. Savenok /Getty Images)

The iconic doll brand American Girl has recently rereleased the iconic twins Isabel and Nicki Hoffman, making millennials feel very old.

American Girl occasionally releases a new historical doll that depicts a particular era in history. However, the twin sisters are just from the 1999 collection.

Yes, it has been 24 long years, and a lot of us cannot help but reminisce about how long ago that was.

American Girl releases historical dolls: Isabel and Nicki Hoffman

According to Mashable, American Girl, the popular doll brand known for its inspiring role models from pivotal eras in American history, has just introduced two new historical dolls: Isabel and Nicki Hoffman.

The fraternal twins, officially released on February 22, 2023, join the brand's long line of historical characters that include figures such as Addy Walker, Felicity Merriman, and Kit Kittredge.

However, Isabel and Nicki hold a special place in American Girl's history as they are the first twin dolls in the brand's historical character line.

Set in Seattle during the year 1999, Isabel and Nicki's stories offer a unique perspective on growing up in the '90s.

TODAY describes Isabel as a bubbly and extroverted character who loves listening to pop music and has a passion for party planning and interior decorating.

Nicki, on the other hand, is thoughtful, introverted, and passionate about skateboarding. Throughout their stories, each twin learns more about who she is as an individual, with Nicki beginning to express herself through zines and song lyrics, while Isabel focuses on her passion for decorating and planning events.

Their shared birthday on May 22, 1990, is the starting point for their journey, as they learn how to get along and support each other.

Read Also: Another 6-Year-Old Brings Loaded Gun to School, This Time to Little Creek Elementary School

American Girl are making millennials feel old

According to Fox News, in 2001, American Girl (AG) introduced the "Girl of the Year" collection, which showcases a newly released doll each year with a story set in the present.

Aside from this, the brand also released dolls that represent pivotal eras in American history. For example, Samantha Parkington, Kirsten Larson, and Molly McIntire are some of the dolls that were released, and their stories were set in 1904, 1854, and 1944, respectively.

AG also released other dolls with historical backgrounds dating as far back as 1764 up to the 20th century.

The brand sells these types of dolls for a limited time only on their website. Prior to the release of Isabel and Nicki, Courtney Moore was the most recent historical doll, whose story was set in 1986.

However, the statement that the late '90s are now considered historical did not sit well with many women.

They shared their thoughts on social media, jokingly questioning the brand's claim that Isabel and Nicki Hoffman are now historical dolls, as their stories are set in Seattle during the year 1999.

One user even tweeted about the nostalgia and stated she felt disrespected.

American Girl just released their newest historical dolls: Isabel & Nicki from 1999.



I never felt so disrespected in my life.  pic.twitter.com/kREHfdEZih  Black Girl Nerds (@BlackGirlNerds) February 24, 2023

The official American Girl social media account acknowledged the backlash with a tweet expressing regret for causing offense. The brand capitalized on the attention by tweeting, "Didn't mean to hurt so many feelings today."

Didnt mean to hurt so many feelings today  https://t.co/JCMC9dwahp  American Girl (@American_Girl) February 22, 2023

Sydney Satalino, the founder of the American Girl blog, shared that she assumed new dolls from the 1990s would not be released until later in the decade or even the next decade.She noted that American Girl was a popular brand among girls from the 1990s, and introducing nostalgia for that audience while appealing to younger children whose parents grew up in the 1990s was a smart move.

Related Article: Child Transgender Cases: Whistleblower Reveals Alarming Increase in Cases at St Louis Hospital
With Apple releasing their first generation XR headset later this year, it's no surprise that Xiaomi wanted to grab the media's attention at the Mobile World Congress 2023 (MWC 2023) today with their newly announcedregarding Wireless AR Glass Discovery Edition. The razzle dazzle concept presented, was just that, a concept and not a product that Xiaomi was announcing. However entertaining, it was simply pure marketing at the highest of levels. Here's what Xiaomi presented today.

This cutting-edge concept is Xiaomi's first wireless AR glasses to utilize distributed computing, offering a retina-level adaptive display that adjusts to the lighting environment. With enhanced connectivity to a Snapdragon Spaces ready smartphone, it enables innovative hand tracking at a refined level, supports a comprehensive range of applications for larger displays, and offers forward-thinking innovations in inter-device compatibility.

Wireless AR glasses, experience low latency with a cord-free design

Xiaomi Wireless AR Glass Discovery Edition is a concept designed with individual experience in mind. Instead of relying on a wired connection to a host computing device, this device is designed at just 126g and adopts Xiaomi-developed high-speed interconnection buses to achieve high-speed data connection from smartphone to AR glasses. Built on Snapdragon XR2 Gen 1 Platform and featuring Xiaomi's proprietary low-latency communication link, these Snapdragon Spaces XR Developer Platform-supported glasses offer a wireless latency of as low as 3ms1 between the smartphone device to the glasses, and a wireless connection with full link latency as low as 50ms2 which is comparable to wired solutions.

The AR glasses feature a lightweight design that incorporates a range of lightweight materials such as magnesium-lithium alloy, carbon fiber parts, and a self-developed silicon-oxygen anode battery. With a weight of just 126g, these glasses are designed to minimize any physical burden on the user. Additionally, through analyzing tens of thousands of head tracking data samples, the glasses have been calibrated with precision, taking into account details such as the center of gravity, leg spacing, angle, nose rest, and other factors that contribute to a superior experience.

Retina-level near-eye display for AR glasses, support for electrochromic color change pass-through shading via one key switch

At Xiaomi, our engineers believe that achieving the seamless integration of the digital and real-world requires users to perceive virtual objects as vividly and clearly as physical objects. To meet this need, the device must offer display quality of the highest caliber.

Xiaomi Wireless AR Glasses are amongst the industry's first to achieve a "retina-level" display. As with high-end display concepts, there exists a "critical value" quality threshold for AR glasses. When angular resolution or PPD (pixels per degree) approaches 60, the human eye cannot distinguish granularity. The PPD of the Xiaomi Wireless AR Glasses is 58, which is the industry-leading closest to meeting this quality specification.

Leveraging a free-form optical module that comprises a pair of MicroOLED screens, Xiaomi Wireless AR Glass also comes with free-form light-guiding prisms to achieve a clear picture display. These free-form prisms are capable of performing complex light refraction in a limited volume. The content displayed on the screen is reflected by three surfaces within the light-guiding prisms, resulting in a final presentation in front of the user's eyes.

The AR glasses' optical module design minimizes light loss and produces clear and bright images with a to-eye brightness of up to 1200nit, providing a strong foundation for AR applications. Additionally, the AR glasses come equipped with electrochromic lenses that can adapt to different lighting conditions. These lenses enable a blackout mode that offers an immersive experience when viewing content, while the transparent mode produces a more vivid AR experience that blends reality and virtual elements.

Xiaomi AR Gesture Control, a more natural way to interact

Xiaomi Wireless AR Glass also features an innovative self-researched micro gesture interaction that enables one-handed, highly-precise pure gesture interaction. This kind of interaction showcases one of the directions that Xiaomi believes human-computer interaction will take in the future.

Xiaomi utilizes the joints of the user's inner fingers as a gesture recognition area for Xiaomi Wireless AR Glasses. The directional is oriented from the second joint of the middle finger, with the second joint of the index finger representing the upward direction. When combined with the surrounding areas, this forms a four-way directional key for basic movement operations. In addition, the 12 knuckles function similarly to the Chinese nine-key input method, allowing for text input through thumb tapping in the finger area. The thumb sliding on the index finger is used to enter and exit applications. Looking forward, Xiaomi hopes to enable sliding and tapping operations through the random movement of the thumb in the palm.

Micro gestures on Xiaomi Wireless AR Glass enable users to perform daily app usage operations such as selecting and opening apps, swiping through pages, and exiting apps to return to the start page, all without using a smartphone for controls.

Xiaomi Wireless AR Glass incorporates a low power-usage AON camera that enables prolonged gesture interaction and facilitates features. Furthermore, users can also opt for conventional smartphone controls, which can be paired and used as a gesture or touchpad control.

Bringing a new and more connected experience to AR glasses

Xiaomi's extensive experience in cross-device interconnection has resulted in numerous innovative interconnection experiences being incorporated into wireless AR glasses.

The device supports a variety of large-screen applications available throughout the ecosystem, enabled by Mi Share's application streaming capability. Popular applications like TikTok and YouTube can optimize display area usage of the glasses, essentially turning them into a portable large screen. Additionally, the AR capability allows users to place familiar apps anywhere in the viewing space and adjust their interface size via spatial gestures, thus enhancing the efficiency and overall experience of information access.

As the world's largest smart home platform, Xiaomi has integrated AR to offer a unique experience to users. For instance, Xiaomi Wireless AR Glass allows users to "grab" the screen from a typical television screencast, and then continue watching it on the glasses. Furthermore, Xiaomi has extracted common operations of smart devices, enabling users to operate devices through AR scenes. For instance, when looking at a lamp, users can use spatial gestures to click a virtual button to turn that lamp on or off. Xiaomi has also integrated a spatial audio experience, allowing virtual speakers to be linked with the real environment.

Xiaomi Wireless AR Glasses Discovery Edition requires pairing with Xiaomi 13 or other Snapdragon Spaces ready device. The glasses are available in a titanium-colored design and support three sizes of nosepieces. Nearsighted users can use an attachable myopic clip. In terms of software support, the glasses are compatible with Qualcomm Snapdragon Spaces, OpenXR, and Microsoft MRTK development framework. Xiaomi intends to work closely with developers to expedite the arrival of AR.

At the end of the day you have to give it to Xiaomi's marketing department for being a top notch division when it comes to creating futuristic concepts, that for now, is no more than vaporware. The concept intelligently taps into what consumers want to hear right now, even though its not available. Yet I applaud their creation as it sure cranks up the volume of excitement for Apple's real XR headset coming to market later this year.
Blessed are the merciful, reads the King James Version of Matthew 5:7, for they shall obtain mercy. (Matthew 5:7)

A few verses later, in the next chapter of the gospel of Matthew, a famous line in the Lords Prayer reads as follows: And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (Matthew 6:12). An equivalent passage in the gospel of Luke has it this way: And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us (Luke 11:4).

Plainly, if you think about it, this prayer can be rather dangerous. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again (Matthew 7:2, still within the Matthean text of the Sermon on the Mount). Or, as the World English Bible renders the same passage, For with whatever judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with whatever measure you measure, it will be measured to you.

Do we really want to be judged according to the standard by which we judge others? Arent we too often inclined to be strict and unforgiving with those around us, while being charitable and oh-so-understanding with regard to ourselves? We often judge others rigorously by what they do, but ourselves by our good intentions.

Think of Haman, in the biblical tale of Esther: For some reason, he wanted to lead a murderous pogrom against the Jews. Instead, he ended up being hanged upon the very gallows that he had built for the prominent Jewish man that he hated most particularly, Mordecai.

And every nation which shall war against thee, O house of Israel, shall be turned one against another, and they shall fall into the pit which they digged to ensnare the people of the Lord. (1 Nephi 22:14)

As the Lord himself has said of the Latter-day Saints in modern times: he who diggeth a pit for them shall fall into the same himself (Doctrine and Covenants 109:25; see context).

Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the Lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if he from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses. (Matthew 18:23-35)

I think that some figures might help to give a bit of context to this parable, to flesh it out and maket: A Jewish talent of the biblical period was approximately 43,620 grams of silver. The fellowservant owed the first servant one hundred  (denaria), translated in the King James Bible as an hundred pence. The Roman denarius was 3.64 grams of silver. Note, therefore, the vast difference between the debt owed by the first servant to his master (a thousand talents, or 43,620,000 grams of silver) and the debt owed to that servant by his fellowservant (a hundred denarii, or 364 grams silver).

The words of the Nephite King Benjamin come readily to mind here, as they are preserved in the Book of Mormon:

I say unto you, my brethren, that if you should render all the thanks and praise which your whole soul has power to possess, to that God who has created you, and has kept and preserved you, and has caused that ye should rejoice, and has granted that ye should live in peace one with another  I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another  I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants. (Mosiah 2:20-21)

And, thereafter, King Benjamins language grows even stronger: For behold, he says, are we not all beggars? (Mosiah 4:19)

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. (Matthew 7:12)

If, as the doctrine of the Restoration teaches, our goal in this life and beyond is to become like God, it seems that we might do worse than focusing on the fact that, among his many attributes, God is merciful. Ill have much more to say, eventually, about the challenge give in Matthew 5:8. But its worth noting its context, where it seems to conclude and culminate a discussion of, well, mercy:
Recalling Johnny Cash & A Consideration of Love as a Zen Koan

Or, How to Become a Buddha of Fire

James Ishmael Ford

Burning burning burning burning

O Lord Thou Pluckest me out

O Lord thou pluckest

T. S. Eliot, the Waste Land

Johnny Cash was born on this day, the 26th of February, in 1932. He was the middle of seven children. Like many Americans the family claimed some Native American inheritance, although a later DNA test of his daughter showed that, like the case for so many, this was not so.

Like all of us he was birthed of dream and hope and lies and hurt.

Johnny would grow up to be an award winning musician. As one article noted Much of Cashs music contained themes of sorrow, moral tribulation, and redemption, especially in the later stages of his career. This and a compelling stage presence and in later years affecting an all-black stage wardrobe was memorable.

He died twenty years ago. But Johnny Cash continues to have a half life in the minds and hearts of many. Including me.

Actually for many years I felt there was a sermon I wanted to write based on paring two of his songs.Well, one he wrote. And the other he lifted.

I never wrote the sermon. But, I continue to think about it.

It turns on the mystery we call love.

When I think of the great mystery at the core of our being Im flooded with images and feelings. At the very heart of it all is my lifetime consideration of the Buddhist term Sunyata, that mysterious pregnant emptiness at the foundation point of Mahayana Buddhism. Not precisely empty. Not exactly fullness. It carries all the potentiality of existence. It is the field of birth and life and death.

I sit with it, and that word love comes to me unbidden.

I recall an etymological dictionary that suggested the distant ancestor of love was lub, a word meaning desire. It kind of works, dont you think? Of course desire is a dangerous thing, a variation on the very thing that old Gautama Siddhartha marked out as the cardinal cognitive error in human consciousness  grasping, specifically grasping after that which is in motion as if it were permanent. A fools chase that ends, always, in grief.

At the same time Ive seen people who try to follow that analysis and cut themselves off from life. It births a desiccated spirituality and a stunted person. Another mistake. Of course, then theres that other old Buddhist caution that describes our lives as one continuous mistake. True stuff, that.

So, how do we deal with this conundrum? On the one hand it is a dance with grief. On the other, in denying it, we become something ugly. Johnny Cash had his own problems with love.

His song I walk the Line was his attempt at a vow of fidelity to his first wife Vivian Liberto.

There is something noble in it. And, it is shadowed by his failure to live up to the vow. It is easy to rebuke him for his failure, and his turn from his vow. I think he deserves some rebuke. And.

When we speak of love we are talking around a mystery, something half dove and half dragon. It is the song of peace. And it breathes a fire that can burn us to ashes.

Johnnys second wife June Carter wrote her own song about love. And Johnny really, really liked it. And he wanted to make it his own, and he did.

Oh, I love those Mexican horns. And there is something deeply authentic here.

No more toeing the line.

Now love becomes something all consuming.

Something real, but also so harsh it kills. Ring of fire.

Thats when I found myself thinking of June. Actually, it was her song. And if youve ever heard her versions, theyre different. No swagger. Cool as that is. Here something else is happening.

Here love comes as the destroyer. Two marriages collapse. Pain flows like blood.

And two people are caught in the great desire.

And here I find the mystery revealed. In that moment of confrontation something is found. We are wounded, and the world is wounded. To know ourselves is to know failure and collapse, as the old man said, sickness, the best we can hope for, old age, and, somewhere along the line, death.

And in between the enclosing great night some spark, something beautiful, burning like a lamp, and something terrible.

A ring of fire.

And the call for us. Heres the Zen of this. Become a Buddha of fire.

Lets call it a Zen song.

Or, perhaps, just a song of love.
German Ambassador to Ghana Daniel Krull has observed that Chinas hesitance to come to the external debt restructuring table could be due to fears over implications for its dealings with other African countries.



Chinas current position as the leading creditor to African countries, the diplomat explains, means that whatever arrangement it ends up making with Ghana in terms of ongoing debt restructuring to help the country meet requirements for an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout must be done to all the others that are looking to reduce sovereign debts or heading to the Bretton Woods Institutions for bailouts.



China has been very reluctant in terms of setting up a creditors committee, which is a key decision to take now; and we are aware that, so far, the Ghanaian government has not been able to enter into direct talks with them; so we are trying to talk to them, but China is a big player and has its agenda for dealing with Africa.



We must also be aware that other countries are having similar challenges, and that is making it so complex because it might not be with only Ghana but other African countries. So, this is not only with Ghana but all of Africa; and that explains Chinas hesitance in negotiating with Ghana. Lets not also forget that Chinas economy has also been hit hard by COVID-19 and is not in the best of shape, he said.



Imperatively, he urged China to take a bold internal decision as soon as possible and come to the negotiation table in order to enable Ghana chart a pathway to recovery from the ongoing economic challenges characterised by unsustainable public debt.



Touching on what the German government is doing to help Ghana out of its woes, Mr. Krull emphasised that Germany remains committed to supporting the country in these hard times; nonetheless, every help must be given within the remit of international conditions and policies.



The recent visit of top German ministers and parliamentarians to Ghana in recent times is a clear sign of our commitment and preparedness to support in all times, and especially in times of crisis like this one. We are prepared to live up to our responsibility as one of the major bilateral creditors to Ghana, but we are ready to do so with certain criteria adhered to, he said.



He stated that the G20 has a common framework for handling such crises and that Germany is committed to respecting the framework irrespective of the fact it might not be perfect.



The ambassador further called on business moguls who have good relationships with China to also get involved in lobbying the Asian nation to come to the aid of Ghana.



The ambassador made these remarks in his engagement with the press at his residence to brief them on the state of bilateral relations between the two countries after the German employment ministers visit.



China-Ghana debt restructure status



The Minister of Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, disclosed last week that governments planned high-level meeting with Chinese creditors over Ghanas debt restructuring has been postponed to late March 2023.



For many stakeholders, this could affect Ghanas timelines for an economic bailout of US$3billion to build back the economy, as the country needs to conclude its debt restructuring negotiations with its creditors to be able to secure the Funds executive board approval for the bailout programme.



China and its agencies hold about US$1.7billion of Ghanas US$5.5billion bilateral debt, and the specialised nature of their lending windows means that Ghana cannot add them to the model used to negotiate with the G20 and Paris Club members.

Source: B&FT









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Finance ministers of the world's largest economies have failed to agree on a closing statement following talks in India due to differences over the war in Ukraine.



Russia and China refused to condemn the invasion at the G20 talks.



Moscow accused Western countries of destabilising the meeting and being "anti-Russian".



A year after Russia's invasion, the conflict continues to have knock-on effects on the global economy.



Previous meetings of G20 members have also failed to produce a joint statement since Russia, a member of the grouping, invaded Ukraine last February, a move that has been met with widespread condemnation.



India, which hosted the talks in the southern city of Bengaluru, issued a "chair's summary" from the meeting, noting there were "different assessments of the situation and sanctions" at the two-day meeting.



A footnote said two paragraphs summarising the war - which it said were adapted from the G20 Bali Leaders' Declaration in November - were "agreed to by all member countries except Russia and China".



Russia's foreign ministry said it regretted the fact that "the activities of the G20 continue to be destabilised by the Western collective and used in an anti-Russian... way".



It accused the United States, European Union and G7 nations of "clear blackmail", urging them to "acknowledge the objective realities of a multipolar world".



Ajay Seth, a senior Indian official, said in a press conference that Russian and Chinese representatives did not agree to the wording on Ukraine because "their mandate is to deal with economic and financial issues".



"On the other hand, all the other 18 countries felt that the war has got implications for the global economy" and needed to be mentioned, he added.



German Finance Minister Christian Lindner, said: "This is a war. And this war has a cause, has one cause, and that is Russia and Vladimir Putin. That must be expressed clearly at this G20 finance meeting."



Beijing this week stepped up its diplomacy efforts regarding the conflict, when its top diplomat Wang Yi made a tour of Europe, which culminated in a warm welcome by Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.



China also this week published a 12-point "peace plan" on the conflict, which included "respecting the sovereignty of all countries" and "stopping unilateral sanctions".

Source: BBC









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The Deputy Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Francisca Oteng Mensah has said that her recent exoneration by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) on allegations of conflict of interest in the procurement of COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and hand sanitisers during her tenure as Board Chairperson of the National Youth Authority (NYA) has further strengthened her resolve to serve the people of Ghana and to contribute her quota towards the development of the country.



Speaking to journalists for the first time after the Commission published its findings earlier this month, Mrs. Oteng Mensah said the decision by CHRAJ to clear her of any wrongdoing was not only a vindication that she was innocent of allegations levelled against her but also a motivation to work harder for the people of Ghana.



"I am relieved that the truth has finally come out and that CHRAJ has found me not guilty of any wrongdoing. This whole episode has been a trying experience for me, but it has only strengthened my resolve to continue serving my country and my constituents to the best of my abilities.



"I am more focused now than ever before to deliver on my mandate as the Deputy Minister for Gender. I will continue to work towards the development and empowerment of women in Ghana, and I urge all Ghanaians to join me in this quest," she said.



CHRAJ, on January 28, 2021, received a complaint from one Ismail Mohammed alleging that Mrs. Oteng Mensah had on March 30, 2020, as the Board Chairperson of the NYA, presided over a board meeting which set aside GH3 million for the procurement of PPEs for the fight against COVID-19.



The complainant alleged that per her directive at the board meeting, hand sanitizers were procured at an amount exceeding GH700,000 from Adonko Bitters Limited, a subsidiary of the Angel Group of Companies, a limited liability company owned by Mrs. Oteng Mensah and her biological father, Mr. Kweku Oteng. The complainant averred that the move amounted to a conflict of interest.



However, CHRAJ in its report signed by the Commissioner, Joseph Whittal, and released on February 2, 2023, dismissed the allegations on grounds that they lacked merit, as investigations conducted by the commission and evidence provided did not support the case of conflict of interest against Mrs. Oteng Mensah.



This, Mrs. Oteng Mensah, who is also a Member of Parliament (MP) for Kwabre East in the Ashanti Region expressed her gratitude to the Commission for clearing her name and stated that the exoneration would only serve to motivate her to do more in her portfolio as Deputy Gender Minister.



She thanked President Akufo-Addo, the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and her constituents for their unwavering support and encouragement during the time of investigation and stated that she is committed to serving the nation with integrity and dedication

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Chief Executive Officer of the National Identification Authority (NIA), Prof. Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah has disclosed that Ghanaian nationals abroad who seek to acquire a Ghana Card will have to make some financial commitments.



Speaking in an interview on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", Prof. Attafuah told host Nana Yaw Kesseh that although the card is free, it is not free for those outside the shores of Ghana.



He stated that Ghanaian nationals are required to pay between 20 and 50 dollars to have their cards.



"In Ghana, the provision is free, first and foremost, but the law that Parliament has enacted for our nationals overseas is that those in West Africa will pay the equivalent of 20 United States dollars in any country they are, whether Togo, Niger, Burkina or Liberia and those within the rest of Africa will pay the equivalent of 30 dollars, thus, those at South Africa or Namibia or Kenya. And now those around the world at large will pay 50 United States dollars in the currency of the country they reside, the equivalent," he said.



He, however, noted that a lot of the nationals are willing to get their cards.



" . . people are anxious to get the Ghana Card even while they live in those countries because it helps them to do their transactions without necessarily coming to Ghana," he noted.











Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Professor Kenneth Attafuah, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Identification Authority (NIA), has expressed concerns over the bulk of Ghana Cards at the NIA offices across the country.



According to him, there are over 600,000 Ghana Cards which have been printed and sitting in the offices because the recipients have either refused or are challenged to come for them.



In an interview with host Nana Yaw Kesseh on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' show Monday morning, the NIA Boss revealed that "the number of cards at our offices all over the country which have been printed but have not been issued to Ghanaians is 642,403 as at last week. Out of this number, a few people may have died and others have traveled".



"There are others we call to receive their cards but they don't come; others also insult our officials when they are called," he added.



He, however, admitted that there are some challenges with distributing the cards to the recipients in the hinterlands, hence appealed to government to provide them with vehicles to support their movement to the remote areas.



Prof. Attafuah called on those who haven't received their cards to go to their offices stressing, "there is also a certain minimum obligation on the citizenry to do a little effort to recieve your card".





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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A powerful earthquake has struck Turkey again amid the nation's struggle to recover from previous disasters this month.

The 5.5 magnitude earthquake took a blow to central Turkey, just days after two further quakes hit the border near Syria.



At 10.27 am, the alarm of a 10km-deep quake was raised by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre.



It was said to have occurred 40km south of city Aksaray and 18km northeast of Emirgazi was hit by a 10km-deep quake.



India Today also reported that the disaster took place in the Nigde province which is almost 230 miles from Gaziantep - affected by the initial 7.8 quake on February 6.



Collapsed buildings and heaps of rubble were also photographed in the Golbasi district, worsening the toll taken to Turkey's infrastructure.



Today's disaster comes at a time when both Turkey and Syria had begun work to reconstruct homes for the millions that were displaced by the quakes.



More than 50,000 have been killed due to the continued destruction, but no casualties have been confirmed as a direct result of today's incident.



Vice President Fuat Oktay has since tweeted that teams are 'in the field' assessing the damage caused but 'there is no negative situation at the moment'.



He said: 'Get well soon to all our citizens who were affected by the earthquake in the Bor district of Nigde.



'Our teams are in the field, the damage assessment work continues. There is no negative situation at the moment. May Allah protect our country and our nation from all kinds of disasters.'



On Monday, a new 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck parts of Turkey and Syria that were laid waste by a massive tremor that occurred two weeks prior.



Officials confirmed that three people died in Monday's tremor after more buildings collapsed, trapping occupants, and several people were injured in both countries.



This came exactly two weeks after the catastrophic earthquakes of 7.8 and 7.6 magnitude that took place on February 6.



Nine thousand aftershocks are said to have taken place in Turkey since the deadly quake.









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A 24-year-old shop attendant at Abeka Free Pipe in Accra, Veronica Ansah, is in the grip of the police for allegedly threatening and locking up a monitoring staff member of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) in the shop.



The ECG staff member was part of a team on a monitoring exercise to audit the health of prepaid meters in the area.



The team was drawn to the shop, which was disconnected previously after the owner engaged in a meter by-pass.



However, it was reconnected by the customer without the involvement, knowledge, or permission of the ECG.



Narration



Narrating the incident to the media, the ECG Accra West Regional Revenue Protection Manager, Dr Mark Owusu Ansah, noted that on three previous occasions, the customer had reconnected power to her shop despite a bill slapped on her for engaging in illegal connection.



There is a bill of GH10,517.53 owed by the shop for bypassing the meter and using power for free. The customer has not approached us to clear this debt, and keeps reconnecting herself anytime we disconnect, he said.



Dr Owusu Ansah further revealed that the customer threatened the staff member when he visited the premises for the exercise, and ordered her attendant to lock him up while they called a mob to attack them.



The locked-up employee was rescued by colleagues who were visiting nearby premises. The case was reported to the police and the attendant was arrested.



Recovery



Last year, the Accra West Region of the ECG recovered nearly GH10.4 million from 1,900 customers who were apprehended for engaging in various forms of illegal connections.



Those customers were surcharged for the power they used, with some tried in court for stealing power.



The ECG Accra West General Manager, Ebenezer Ghunney, bemoaned incidents of threats and attacks on staff of the company while they carried out their legitimate duties.



We are liaising with the security agencies to ensure that our staff work in the best congenial and peaceful atmosphere always, he said.



Mr Ghunney added that the full legal might of the company would be assembled to take action against anyone who impedes the smooth work of field staff of the company.



The Accra West Region has eight operational districts: Ablekuma, Achimota, Amasaman, Bortianor, Dansoman, Kaneshie, Korle Bu and Nsawam.

Source: graphic.com.gh









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The National Identification Authority is reported to have found itself in a desperate situation over the non-availability of blank cards for the printing and issuance of new Ghana Cards.



According to a report by 3news.com sighted by GhanaWeb, a supplier, Identity Management Systems Limited (IMS) has locked up a consignment of blank cards meant for the NIA due to indebtedness by the state institution.



Since about August of last year, we have experienced financial constraints in the system and it created a situation where even though we have 3.5 million stock of cards in a bonded warehouse, we are unable to assess the cards because of financial difficulty, Executive Secretary of the Authority Professor Kenneth Agyemang Attafuah confirmed the development in a Joy FM interview on Saturday.



He was however optimistic that the situation will be dealt with very soon. According to him, government has cleared some of the debt and soon some cards will be released for printing.



The Electoral Commission put before parliament a Constitutional Instrument (CI) seeking to make the Ghana Card the solely required document of proof for voter registration ahead of the 2024 elections.



However, the minority in parliament has raised concerns about the move citing the inability of all eligible Ghanaians to get their cards in time for registration.



But according to Prof Attafuah, the NIA will print all the cards for registered Ghanaians even for those below 18 years once the issue of financing is dealt with.















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The Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin, has cautioned members of the House not to substitute physical strength for intellectual prowess because Parliament is for the brain and not the brawn.



According to him, MPs are now trading brainpower for physical prowess in addressing issues in the chamber, pointing out, There is too much sound and fury on the floor of the House.



During a late-night session in December 2021, a brawl broke out in Parliament over then contentious levy on electronic transactions, with MPs shoving, pushing and throwing punches at each other.



The chaos started after opposition MPs rushed forward to prevent Deputy Speaker Joseph Osei-Owusu from leaving his seat to vote. With new Minority protests on Thursday evening, a near-chaotic atmosphere was created.



Minority members raised loud protests about the Draft Public Elections (Registration of Voters) Regulations 2023 and the status of the Ghana Card.



Speaker Blast



In his remarks to the House yesterday, the Speaker urged the leadership of both caucuses to address the issue of relying on brawn rather than brain.



Leadership, yourself must show the way and I am sure your members will follow your good example.



The House is a House for brain, not for brawn. A brawn belongs to another arena and not on the floor of the august House, he intimated.



He added, Please lets continue to jaw-jaw in decency. There are some exceptions, but it should not be the rule that every day the heat is being generated rather from Parliament, but not from actions outside Parliament.



I dont think that is right. Please, I urge the two caucuses to immediately organise workshops. The budget is there to fund the workshop for you to go through the rules together, particularly the etiquette of the House, Mr. Bagbin posited.



He disclosed that he was getting a lot of concerns expressed by Ghanaians, and that he would fail in his duty, if he did not convey the concerns of Ghanaians to the lawmakers.



Please, this House is so fragile and we must all be very careful on how we conduct business in the House, he entreated.



Stalemate



Parliament has remained deadlocked as the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs and their Majority New Patriotic Party (NPP) counterparts stuck to their various positions on the proposed constitutional instrument by the Electoral Commission (EC) to undertake continuous registration of eligible voters.



On Thursday, the House was forced to adjourn during the Committee of the Whole meeting following noisy protests by Minority members demanding for the Chairperson of the EC, Jean Mensa, to appear in person to brief the House on the proposed Public Elections (Registration of Voters) Regulations 2023.



The commission had been represented by the Deputy Chairman in charge of Corporate Services, Dr. Bossman Asare and Director of Elections, Dr. Serebour Quaicoe at the briefing meeting.



The First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei-Owusu, DAILY GUIDE gathered, tried his best to conduct the business to get the EC officials and their counterparts from the National Identification Authority (NIA) to brief the House, but failed as the opposition MPs stuck to their demand, banging on their tables.



The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Jean Adukwei Mensa and the Executive Secretary of the National Identification Authority, Prof. Kenneth Agyeman Attafuah have been summoned to Parliament.



Motion



The House was considering the adoption of the report of the Committee of the Whole on the Status of Registration, Printing and Issuance of the ECOWAS Identity Card (Ghana Card) and Related Challenges when matters degenerated into confusion.



The Majority Leader, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu had moved the motion on behalf of the Chairman of the Committee and it was seconded by the MP for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Etse Kwami Dafeamekpor.



The debate arose and the question was put, with the MPs agreeing to the motion, but the sitting was suspended at 5:40 p.m.



Summons



When the sitting was finally resumed at 8:07 p.m., Speaker Bagbin took the Chair and summoned the Chairperson of the EC, Executive Secretary of the NIA to appear in the House in response to the concerns raised at the Committee of the Whole.



They are to brief MPs as soon as possible on the proposed Public Elections (Registration of Voters) Regulations, 2023, as well as the status of the Ghana Card registration.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









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Ghana on Saturday, January 7, 2023, commemorated her 30th anniversary of democracy.



The country experienced multiple coup d'etats during the 1960s and 1970s before late Ex-President Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings ushered in Ghanas Fourth Republic.



The determination of the citizenry to live in freedom and uphold democratic rule paved way for the 1992 Constitution which has since become the legal foundation on which the country's democracy thrives.



The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has also launched a year-long celebration of 30 years of Ghana's parliamentary democracy under the Fourth Republic under the theme "Thirty years of Parliamentary democracy under the Fourth Republic: The journey thus far".



A Planning Committee chaired by the Member of Parliament (MP) for Abuakwa South, Samuel Atta Akyea, has been constituted.



Recollecting on the country's journey into democracy, there have been calls for a constitutional review but seasoned journalist, Kwesi Pratt has dissented to these calls.



Speaking on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show, Kwesi Pratt stated categorically that what is pressing to Ghanaians currently is not a constitutional amendment but rather they need proper management of the country.



He stated that the citizens want improvement in their lives and looking on the leaders to address the economic crises.



"Currently, when I look at Ghana, what is really important to us is not constitutional amendment because we are not indebted because of constitutional amendment or the constitution. The price of kenkey hasn't gone up three times because of the constitution and so on. So, for me, we should place aside the constitutional amendment", he told host Nana Yaw Kesseh.



Further reminiscing about the dark days of military rule in Ghana, Mr. Pratt advised the youth of today to stop fanning statements that seek to call for a return of the military rule.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, last year announced that government will be reintroducing the collection of road tolls on selected roads in the country this year.



The reintroduction of the road toll was one of the revenue measures contained in the 2023 budget presented to Parliament by the Finance Minister.



The fiscal policy measures to underpin the 2023 Budget for consideration and approval by Parliament include the reintroduction of tolls on selected public roads and highways with a renewed focus on leveraging technology in the collection to address the inefficiencies characterized by the previous toll collection regime, paragraph 462 of the 2023 Budget statement read.



But the Ashanti Regional Minister, Simon Osei Mensah has disagreed with the reintroduction of the road tolls.



Narrating how he once, as Regional Minister, had to personally get involved in distributing tickets in order to ease the traffic congestion on a certain road in the Ashanti Region, he noted that bringing back the tolls will cause unnecessary traffic.



To him, he will only subscribe to the idea of reintroducing road tolls on the condition that it will be electronic.



"We should consider maybe electronic but if we are to go back to the previous form, I won't support it because it gives headache", he said during "Kokrokoo" panel discussion programme on Peace FM.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Nigeria's electoral commission has suspended the senatorial election in southeastern Enugu, where the opposition Labour Party candidate was killed, the commission's chairman Mahmood Yakubu said on Friday.



One opposition party candidate and the driver of a campaign minibus belonging to another party were killed in a series of coordinated attacks in Enugu State on Thursday ahead of an election on Saturday, police said.



"There will be no senatorial election in Enugu East senatorial district," Yakubu said at the Independent National Eelectoral Commission's (INEC) news conference, it's last ahead of Saturday's election.



"Materials already delivered for the senatorial election will remain in the custody of the central bank in the state until the new date for the election."



Yakubu said voting for the senatorial seat would now be held on March 11, when Nigerians elect the country's state governors.



Nigerians are due to elect their next president and lawmakers against a chaotic backdrop of armed conflict in the northeast, high levels of crime and shortages of cash, fuel and electricity.

Source: Reuters









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The use of the Ghana Card as an electronic travel document by Ghanaians arriving in the country is on the rise, data by the Ghana Immigration Service shows.



The biometric national identity card was officially certified by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) as meeting the requirements of an international travel document, and the Ghana Immigration Service, together with other stakeholders, officially announced last year that Ghanians abroad traveling back into the country could use the Ghanacard as a means of identification, in place of their Ghanaian Passports, if they so wished.

The directive also meant that Ghanaian holders of foreign passports, who, hitherto, required visa to arrive back home in Ghana, would no longer require entry Ghanaian visas, once they are holders of the Ghanacard.



The application of the new policy, which was officially implemented less than a year ago, is on the rise, as the Ghana Immigration Data reveals.



Data by the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) shows that about 1,089 Ghanaians boarded flights into Ghana from various countries around the world using Ghana Card.



The data shows that the 1089 passengers boarded flights from 19 different countries and 21 different airlines to the country from January to December 2022.



Special desk at KIA to processes Ghana Card holders



Following the announcement of the new policy, the Ghana Immigration Service set up a special booth at the Kotoko International Airport in Accra, which processes Ghanaian holders of the Ghana Card returning home.



Breakdown of Airline Arrivals



From the data, 426 Ghanaians used their Ghanacard to travel on Emirates Airlines from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to KIA in 2022, while 143 arrived from the Netherlands aboard KLM.



Fron 129 Ghanaians used their Ghanacards to travel from Cote DVoire to Ghana comprising, while Air Cote DVoire brought in 4 and Middle East Airlines brought in 1.



From the United States of America, 78 Ghanaians made up of 35 on Delta Airlines and 43 on United Airlines arrived in Ghana with Ghana Card as their travel document.



From the UK, the British Airways brought in 77 Ghanaians, while 67 Ghanaians arrived aboard Ethiopia Airlines in 2022.



From France, 66 Ghanacard hilders arrived in Ghana aboard Air France, with many others arriving from other countries, such as Burkina Faso-17 (comprising Air Burkina-1, Air France-16), Belgium-13, (Brussels Airlines), Togo -13, (made up of 11 by ASKY , Brussels Airlines-2), Sierra Leone- 9 (ASKY Airlines-1, Kenya Airlines-8) and Nigeria-9 (Africa World Airlines-8, Rwand Air-1) respectively.



Others are: Qatar 8 (Qatar Airways), Liberia-7 (Africa World Airlines-2, ASKY Airlines-2, Kenya Airways-3), Turkey-6 (Turkish Airlines), South Africa-6 (South Africa Airlines), Egypt-6 (Egypt Air), Sao Tome and Principe-3 (Tap Air Portugal) and Morocco-1 (Royal Air Maroc),



The Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia revealed in November 2021 during a lecture at Ashesi University that processes had been completed for the Ghana Card to be recognised as an international travel document by the ICAO, the global body that certifies means of international travel identification.



The government has announced that the next phase of the Ghanacard as an international travel document, is to make it possible for Ghanaians to use it to travel to countries Ghana would reach bilateral agreement with.



When such an agreement is reached, Ghanaian citizens can travel to these countries using their Ghanacard as means of of identification, especially for e-visas.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Toronto Police Services emblem is photographed during a press conference at TPS headquarters, in Toronto on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.Ontario's police watchdog has been called in to investigate after a Toronto police shooting sent an adult man to hospital with life-threatening injuries. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Christopher Katsarov
Dan Albas is the Member of Parliament-elect for the riding of Central Okanagan Similkameen Nicola. This riding includes the communities of Kelowna (specific boundaries), West Kelowna, Peachland, Summerland, Keremeos, Princeton, Merritt and Logan Lake. You can reach Dan by calling 1-800-665-8711 or visit: DanAlbas.com
Amazing Astedt Takes Down a Pair of Sunday Majors

February 27, 2023 Matthew Pitt Editor

Niklas "Lena900" Astedt enjoyed a remarkable Sunday at PokerStars, helping himself to almost $130,000 thanks to a brace of impressive victories in high stakes tournaments. Astedt took down the $5,200 Titans Event, won the $1,050 Sunday Supersonic, and was the runner-up in the $1,050 High Roller. What a guy.

The bulk of Astedt's Sunday haul stemmed from him coming out on top of the star-studded $5,200 Titans Event. Sixty-eight of the world's best poker tournament players bought in and fought it out tooth and nail for a slice of the $340,000 prize pool. Each of the nine finalists locked in no less than $10,000, with the champion, Astedt, taking home $91,769.

Talal "raidalot" Shakerchi fell in ninth for $10,600 before Marius "DEX888" Gierse ran out of steam and chip, falling in eighth for $12,135. Then came the demise of Ognyan "cocojamb0" Dimov in seventh, a finish good for $16,202.

Sixth place and $21,632 went to Canada's "Stumpfed." The Canadian later went on to win the $1,050 Sunday Warm-Up for more than $19,000.

Yuri Dzivielevski could only muster a fourth place finish

Michael "imluckbox" Addamo and Yuri "theNERDguy" Dzivielevski were the next casualties. The talented duo padded their bankrolls with $28,881 and $38,560, respectively. Heads-up was set when Christian "WATnlos" Rudolph bowed out in third, doing so with $51,482 in tow.

Astedt locked horns with "SerVlaMin" heads-up, and the writing was on the wall for the latter. Astedt rarely loses when he finds himself in a one-on-one battle, and this was not one of those rare times. The Swedish superstar eliminated SerVlaMin in second place, and reeled in $91,769 for his victory, resigning the runner-up to a $68,735 consolation prize.

$5,200 Titans Event Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Niklas "Lena900" Astedt Sweden $91,769 2 SerVlaMin United Kingdom $68,735 3 Christian "WATnlos" Rudolph Austria $51,482 4 Yuri "theNERDguy" Dzivielevski Brazil $38,560 5 Michael "imluckbox" Addamo United Kingdom $28,881 6 Stumpfed Canada $21,632 7 Ognyan "cocojamb0" Dimov Bulgaria $16,202 8 Marius "DEX888" Gierse Austria $12,135 9 Talal "raidalot" Shakerchi United Kingdom $10,600

PokerStars Qualifier Razvan Belea Cruises to Victory in 2023 EPT Paris 5,300 Main Event (1,170,000)

Victory Number Two for Astedt

The $1,050 Sunday Supersonic saw a compact field of 39 entrants create a $39,618 prize pool, which Astedt claimed $15,544 from. Only the top five finishers received a slice of the pot, with the Czech grinder Vojta "vojta555cz Skalak helping himself to the $2,859 fifth-place prize.

Hungarian poker legend Peter "Belabacsi" Traply busted in fourth for $4,366, and "zerodeda" fell in third for $6,667, which left Astedt heads-up against the aforementioned "Stumpfed." Again, Astedt got the job done at the business end of the tournament and collected $15,544, leaving Stumpfed to bank a $10,180 second-place payout.

$1,050 Sunday Supersonic Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Niklas "Lena900" Astedt Sweden $15,544 2 Stumpfed Canada $10,180 3 zerodeda Finland $6,667 4 Peter "Belabacsi" Traply Hungary $4,366 5 Vojta "vojta555cz" Skalak Czech Republic $2,859

Massive Value in our PokerNews Home Games on PokerStars

Selected Other PokerStars Results

Tournament Entrants Prize Pool Champion Prize $530 Bounty Builder 521 $260,500 JulioSchmutz81 $43,508* $1,050 Sunday High Roller 117 $125,000 RUMUKULYS $24,840 $109 Sunday Fenomeno 1,345 $134,500 wulfgarrr86 $20,847 $1,050 Sunday Warm-Up 71 $71,000 Stumpfed $19,163 $109 Sunday Warm-Up 1,396 $139,600 Datschi1 $17,916 $1,050 Sunday Cooldown 32 $32,000 Stumpfed $13,367* $109 Bounty Buulder 1,092 $109,200 Stiffler8818 $13,279* $215 Sunday Supersonic 358 $73,304 NoTilit $12,004 $215 Bounty Builder 302 $60,400 zelvavegas $10,981 $109 Sunday Kickoff 648 $64,800 Sajanas23 $9,905 $320 Bounty Builder 88 $26,400 edercampana $6,895*

*includes bounty payments

Dane Comes Out on Top in the PartyPoker Grand

Tomi Brouk finished second after a heads-up deal

Denmark's Oskar Massesson won the $1,050 Grand tournament online at PartyPoker this weekend, leaving a host of stellar names in his wake. Seventh-five players turned out for this event, creating a $76,400 prize pool as a result.

The likes of Juan Carlos Vecino, Jonathan Proudfoot, Ioannis Angelou-Konstas, and Patrick Lauber navigated their way to the final table, but fell short of claiming top honors. Simon Mattsson, another Swedish online great, busted in third for $8,511, which was the final four-figure score.

Heads-up saw Massesson and Finland's Tomi Brouk battle for supremacy. However, the heads-up duo decided to end the tournament with a deal, with both talking home more than $15,000 for their efforts.

$1,050 The Grand Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Oskar Massesson Denmark $15,514* 2 Tomi Brouk Finland $15,164* 3 Simon Mattsson Sweden $8,511 4 Patrick Lauber United Kingdom $6,188 5 Ioannis Angelou-Konstas Ireland $4,742 6 Chistopher Day United Kingdom $3,911 7 Jonathan Proudfoot Ireland $3,396 8 Andrea Radicchi Malta $2,984 9 Juan Carlos Vecino Estonia $2,627

*reflects a heads-up deal

What PKO Tournaments Can You Play at PartyPoker For Less Than $5?

Selected Other PartyPoker Results

Tournament Entrants Prize Pool Champion Prize The Super $215 170 $34,000 kot_sparac74 $7,955* The Super $320 104 $31,200 Fantomet2629 $7,222* The Super $55 1,221 $61,050 trags $6,769* The Big Saturday 145 $30,000 Iaston76 $5,882 The Super $33 1,166 $34,980 mugggggggy $3,612*

*includes bounty payments

888poker Mystery Bounty Festival Continues Producing Big Wins

The Mystery Bounty Festival at 888poker continues producing some impressive results as players embrace this exciting tournament format. 888poker is still the only online poker site that runs daily Mystery Bounty events, and this ongoing festival is the first of its kind.

The 14th numbered event of the inaugural Mystery Bounty Festival was a $55 buy-in affair that drew in 1,074 entrants. That bumper crowd ensured the $50,000 guarantee was surpassed by $3,700.

They may have finished in tenth place and narrowly missed out on a final table appearance, but Finland's "Jackpot1337" actually won the second-most prize money. Jackpot1337 hit the jackpot by capturing the $5,000 top mystery bounty prize, which when combined with their $344 score and another $521 worth of scalps, meant they collected $5,866 from this event; only the champion won more money!

That champion was none other than "JovemNerd94" of Brazil, who saw their $55 investment swell to $6,126 in total. The Brazilian defeated "geirto" heds-up, leaving the second-place finisher to receive a $4,036 payday.

MB Festival #14 - $50,000 Mystery Bounty 8-Max Final Table Results

Place Player Country Bounties Prize Total Prize 1 JovemNerd94 Brazil $759 $5,366 $6,126 2 geirto $162 $3,874 $4,036 3 Savchenko1. Montenegro $359 $2,870 $3,229 4 marauder1801 Denmark $156 $2,152 $2,308 5 Getoverhere Romania $162 $1,435 $1,597 6 Mouse32 United Kingdom $543 $1,004 $1,548 7 Owen1004 Canada $412 $651 $1,063 8 quvai Germany $412 $439 $851 9 Leopardpls Ukraine $231 $344 $575

888poker Ambassador Vivian Saliba Falls Short of Mystery Bounty Festival Title

Other 888poker Mystery Bounty Festival Results

Check out the results from the 15 numbered events that have concluded since the start of the Mystery Bounty Festival; there are some most impressive scores.

You have the chance to win a slice of the largest prize pool of the series so far today, February 27. Three more flights for the $109 buy-in $150,000 guaranteed 8-Max event remain, taking place at 3:30 p.m. GMT, 5:00 p.m. GMT, and 6:00 p.m. GMT, with Day 2 starting at 8:00 p.m. GMT. PokerNews will have a full recap of the $150,000 event's final table for you on February 28.

Event Buy-in Entrants Prize Pool Champion Prize MB Festival 01 $11 2,581 $25,810 For1k $2,282 MB Festival 02 $55 932 $50,000 Savchenko1. $5,503 MB Festival 03 $109 1,032 $120,000 Leofoliveir $10,811 MB Festival 04 $11 1,488 $15,000 samdion1996 $1,559 MB Festival 05 $109 176 $17,600 IlovePickles $2,333 MB Festival 06 $22 746 $15,000 Aurelian3p $1,921 MB Festival 07 $320 97 $29,100 Escabofildo $6,409 MB Festival 08 $22 820 $16,400 Dvingminator $2,016 MB Festival 09 $109 234 $23,400 WestCliff26 $6,795 MB Festival 10 $55 434 $21,700 MachadadaRS $2,928 MB Festival 11 $5.50 1,147 $6,000 boyrom $538 MB Festival 12 $55 469 $23,450 vsmithc413 $2,774 MB Festival 13 $11 2,374 $23,740 ableJ $2,555 MB Festival 14 $55 1,074 $53,700 JovemNerd94 $6,126 MB Festival 15 $5.50 2,298 $15,000 genstorm $1,542
Portugal's Diogo Coelho Takes Down EPT Paris 10,300 High Roller (810,500)

February 27, 2023 Connor Richards Editor & Live Reporter U.S.

The third and final day of the 10,300 High Roller at PokerStars European Poker Tour Paris finally wrapped up after 13-plus hours of play in an event that required last-minute structure adjustments to finish on time. Portugal's Diogo Coelho was the one left standing at the end of it all to take home the trophy and 810,500 after defeating Russia's Aleksandr Shevliakov in a brief heads-up battle.

Despite being a High Roller event, the tournament managed to attract a massive field of 431 runners to generate a prize pool of 4,137,600. The field included many of the high-stakes regulars like Timothy Adams (23rd - 32,900) and Tom-Aksel Bedell (15th - 50,000), as well as plenty of up-and-coming players looking for their first major score.

One of those up-and-comers was Coelho, a 27-year-old who has been playing professionally for five years but had just $75,304 in live tournament earnings before binking more than ten times that.

Im feeling well. Very hyped in the moment," Coelho told PokerNews in a winner's interview. "Its amazing. Ive never won a prize like that before, so for me its everything.

EPT Paris 10,300 High Roller Final Table Results

PLACE PLAYER COUNTRY PRIZE (IN EURO) 1 Diogo Coelho Portugal 810,500 2 Aleksandr Shevliakov Russia 505,800 3 Toni Kaukua Finland 361,300 4 Martin Stausholm Denmark 277,800 5 Mauricio Ferreira Pais Germany 213,700 6 Mario Navarro Spain 164,400 7 Martin Jacobson Sweden 126,500 8 Christian Pedersen Denmark 103,700 9 Vlada Stojanovic Serbia 86,400

The final table included a star in 2014 World Series of Poker Main Event champion Martin Jacobson (7th - 126,500) and fellow Scandinavians Christian Pedersen (8th - 103,700) and Toni Kaukua (3rd - 361,300).

Coelho, who is primarily an online grinder, acknowledged the final table had many "good players who usually play more live poker than me" and "probably feel more comfortable than me" on the live felt.

"But I dont think they have a lot of edge on me because of that," he said. I think it was a fun tournament, a fun final table. A good vibe for almost everyone.

Day 3 Action

It was shaping to be a long day from the beginning when 44 players returned on Day 3 for some deep-stacked poker across 60-minute levels.

It took several hours to reach the final three tables after the eliminations of 2022 GPI Player of the Year Stephen Song (39th - 21,600), recent PCA $50,000 7-Handed champion Conor Beresford (31st - 24,900) and bracelet winner Antoine Vranken (25th - 28,600).

Conor Beresford

Several players fell to make way for the final two tables, including Jun Obara, who bowed out in 20th place when he called down Coelho with just ace-high before getting the bad news as Coelho had flopped trips.

Other players to fall ahead of the final table include David Miscikowski and Rui Ferreira before the Balenciaga-sporting Fahredin Mustafov bowed out in tenth place as his nines couldn't survive a flip against Coelho's suited ace-queen. Ace-queen was also that hand that doomed Vlada Stojanovic in ninth place when his king-jack couldn't pull ahead in a heads-up pot against Shevliakov.

Next out was Christian Pederson, who suffered a tough beat as his kings were cracked by the ace-deuce of Kaukua in a pivotal hand that propelled Kaukua to his deep run.

Jacobson entered the final table as a short stack but managed to ladder and double up before falling in seventh to Coelho. The Swede who famously won $10 million in the 2014 World Series after running up a short stack had to settle for 126,500 this time around.

Kaukua had the chip lead and was pushing his opponents around for most of the final table until losing a critical flip to give Coelho the lead and to take the role of the short stack.

Toni Kaukua

Its a crucial pot," Coelho recalled. This pot, If I lose, Im out of the tournament. If I win, I have 70% of the chips in play. So its a very important flip.

The talkative Finn managed to ladder a bit before getting it in with ace-king to dominate the ace-nine of Coelho. Unfortunately, a runner-runner flush sent Kaukua packing and set Coelho up to have a big heads-up chip lead.

Heads-up play lasted for around a half hour as Shevliakov managed to stay afloat with less than 15 big blinds but could never get anything going.

In the final hand, Coelho open-jammed with ace-eight and Shevliakov called off with queen-seven. An ace-high flop all but sealed it and Shevliakov failed to improve to go out as the runner-up.

As soon as the river card hit, Coelho's rail of Portuguese grinders, including Daniel Custodio and 11th-place finisher Ferreira, both of whom stuck around for a winner's photo, erupted in celebration as their friend locked up his biggest score.

That wraps up the PokerNews live reporting team's coverage of 10,300 High Roller on the final day of the inaugural EPT Paris stop. Check out the EPT Paris hub to see coverage of other events here in France's capital.
The third and final day of the 10,300 High Roller at PokerStars European Poker Tour Paris finally wrapped up after 13-plus hours of play in an event that required last-minute structure adjustments to finish on time. Portugal's Diogo Coelho was the one left standing at the end of it all to take home the trophy and 810,500 after defeating Russia's Aleksandr Shevliakov in a brief heads-up battle.

Despite being a High Roller event, the tournament managed to attract a massive field of 431 runners to generate a prize pool of 4,137,600. The field included many of the high-stakes regulars like Timothy Adams (23rd - 32,900) and Tom-Aksel Bedell (15th - 50,000), as well as plenty of up-and-coming players looking for their first major score.

One of those up-and-comers was Coelho, a 27-year-old who has been playing professionally for five years but had just $75,304 in live tournament earnings before binking more than ten times that.

Im feeling well. Very hyped in the moment," Coelho told PokerNews in a winner's interview. "Its amazing. Ive never won a prize like that before, so for me its everything.

EPT Paris 10,300 High Roller Final Table Results

PLACE PLAYER COUNTRY PRIZE (IN EURO) 1 Diogo Coelho Portugal 810,500 2 Aleksandr Shevliakov Russia 505,800 3 Toni Kaukua Finland 361,300 4 Martin Stausholm Denmark 277,800 5 Mauricio Ferreira Pais Germany 213,700 6 Mario Navarro Spain 164,400 7 Martin Jacobson Sweden 126,500 8 Christian Pedersen Denmark 103,700 9 Vlada Stojanovic Serbia 86,400

The final table included a star in 2014 World Series of Poker Main Event champion Martin Jacobson (7th - 126,500) and fellow Scandinavians Christian Pedersen (8th - 103,700) and Toni Kaukua (3rd - 361,300).

Coelho, who is primarily an online grinder, acknowledged the final table had many "good players who usually play more live poker than me" and "probably feel more comfortable than me" on the live felt.

"But I dont think they have a lot of edge on me because of that," he said. I think it was a fun tournament, a fun final table. A good vibe for almost everyone.

Day 3 Action

It was shaping to be a long day from the beginning when 44 players returned on Day 3 for some deep-stacked poker across 60-minute levels.

It took several hours to reach the final three tables after the eliminations of 2022 GPI Player of the Year Stephen Song (39th - 21,600), recent PCA $50,000 7-Handed champion Conor Beresford (31st - 24,900) and bracelet winner Antoine Vranken (25th - 28,600).

Conor Beresford

Several players fell to make way for the final two tables, including Jun Obara, who bowed out in 20th place when he called down Coelho with just ace-high before getting the bad news as Coelho had flopped trips.

Other players to fall ahead of the final table include David Miscikowski and Rui Ferreira before the Balenciaga-sporting Fahredin Mustafov bowed out in tenth place as his nines couldn't survive a flip against Coelho's suited ace-queen. Ace-queen was also that hand that doomed Vlada Stojanovic in ninth place when his king-jack couldn't pull ahead in a heads-up pot against Shevliakov.

Next out was Christian Pederson, who suffered a tough beat as his kings were cracked by the ace-deuce of Kaukua in a pivotal hand that propelled Kaukua to his deep run.

Jacobson entered the final table as a short stack but managed to ladder and double up before falling in seventh to Coelho. The Swede who famously won $10 million in the 2014 World Series after running up a short stack had to settle for 126,500 this time around.

Kaukua had the chip lead and was pushing his opponents around for most of the final table until losing a critical flip to give Coelho the lead and to take the role of the short stack.

Toni Kaukua

Its a crucial pot," Coelho recalled. This pot, If I lose, Im out of the tournament. If I win, I have 70% of the chips in play. So its a very important flip.

The talkative Finn managed to ladder a bit before getting it in with ace-king to dominate the ace-nine of Coelho. Unfortunately, a runner-runner flush sent Kaukua packing and set Coelho up to have a big heads-up chip lead.

Heads-up play lasted for around a half hour as Shevliakov managed to stay afloat with less than 15 big blinds but could never get anything going.

In the final hand, Coelho open-jammed with ace-eight and Shevliakov called off with queen-seven. An ace-high flop all but sealed it and Shevliakov failed to improve to go out as the runner up.

As soon as the river card hit, Coelho's rail of Portuguese grinders, including Daniel Custodio and 11th-place finisher Ferreira, both of whom stuck around for a winner's photo, erupted in celebration as their friend locked up his biggest score.

That wraps up the PokerNews live reporting team's coverage of 10,300 High Roller on the final day of the inaugural EPT Paris stop. Check out the EPT Paris hub to see coverage of other events here in France's capital.
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HBOs John Oliver had to tell certain outraged over East Palestine Fox News personalities the difference between the movies and real life.

Video:

Oliver said, East Palestine, Ohio got visits from Donald Trump and Pete Buttigieg, but some Fox News personalities insisted that others really should have been there too.

John Oliver then played a clip of Jesse Watters and Rachel Campos-Duffy with Duffy saying, Think about the environmental activists and corporate America, they werent there. This is an Erin Brockovich moment. I mean there was a blockbuster Oscar-winning movie written about something like this.

Watters said, Erin Brockovich is actually in East Palestine tonight.

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Campos-Duffy said, She is, but wheres Julia Roberts?

John Oliver, What? What are you talking about? You realize Julia Roberts is an actor, right? She was pretending. Shes not actually Erin Brockovich. Also, I cant believe that Im the one who has to break this to you. She didnt actually ruin her best friends wedding. Shes not a sex worker, and she did not die in a small Louisiana town in 1989. What the f*ck is wrong with you?

The Fox News effort to politicize the train derailment in East Palestine was destined to go cross into absurdity at some point, but no one thought that Fox News would call out Julia Roberts for not being there for the people of East Palestine. Whats next? Is Fox going to be outraged because Tom Cruise didnt do some Mission Impossible stuff and prevent the train from derailing?

John Oliver skewered how far Fox News has gone to make an environmental disaster into a deeply partisan issue. Fox is so out of touch and cares so little about reality that are willing to get outraged over Julia Roberts not showing up in East Palestine.
Crosland Park resident Charles Means said crime is a concern throughout Aiken, but each time a shooting happens, it is always blamed on his subdivision.

They (people) would come across town and bring it to us because Crosland Park has a reputation, he said.

Means is not the only one in his neighborhood who feels the same way.

The same crime that happens in Crosland Park happens in every other part of Aiken, Crosland Park resident Kevin Price said. Crosland, I dont think, should be isolated as a problematic subdivision.

After a Feb. 8 shooting in the Burger King parking lot that left one man dead and another injured, Crosland Park residents are tired of their neighborhood getting a bad rap each time a violent crime happens in or near the neighborhood. Improvements such as new cameras have helped, but residents feel like crime is a problem Aiken as a whole is dealing with.

That (Burger King shooting) could happen anywhere," Means said. They just want to tack stuff on Crosland Park.

In recent years, the neighborhood has had its share of violent crimes. In April 2021, a shooting killed Ernest Croft. In September 2022, three people were arrested and charged with attempted murder in connection to a May 2022 shooting and in 2020, a 12-year-old was killed in a drive-by shooting.

Croft was killed at the McDonalds across the street from the Crosland Park subdivision.

Lt. Jennifer Hayes with the Aiken Department of Public Safety said multiple factors affect crime trends such as weather, the COVID-19 pandemic and the department's personnel distribution.

Hayes said Aiken police's crime analysis showed Crosland Park, downtown Aiken, Richland Avenue and shopping areas off Whiskey Road on the southside as crime hot spots. She said it is because more people are concentrated in those areas.

Based on data from the Aiken Public Safety iCrime Map, property crimes such as larceny and burglary have increased in all areas of the city. For the last 30 days, one murder was reported in the city of Aiken, while 36 other violent crimes such as assaults were reported. Most of the assaults were simple assaults or intimidation, but two were aggravated assaults.

Meanwhile, there were 58 larcenies, eight motor vehicle break-ins, 13 breaking and enterings, nine burglaries (commercial and residential) and one robbery.

Price said he knows parts of Crosland Park are bad, but he has issues with people stealing mail from his mailbox and a car getting broken into.

Crosland Park Neighborhood Cooperative President Gary Yount has lived in Crosland Park for many years and said the neighborhood isn't that bad.

He said he doesn't feel unsafe living in Crosland Park, but some incidents trouble him.

There are more good people in Crosland Park than bad people, Yount said.

Another resident James Simmons Jr. said nowhere in the world is safe. Each time he turns on the television he hears about a shooting at a grocery store, school or business, he said.

Simmons uses his wheelchair to cross the Burger King parking lot to reach the grocery store and wonders what would have happened if he was out when the shooting took place.

"I cut across and it made me think," he said.

A changing neighborhood

Crosland Park was built in the 1950s for people who worked at the Savannah River Plant, but it transformed over time from owner-occupied housing to rental properties.

Yount said the typical income of residents who live in Crosland Park is between $20,000 to $50,000 and they are a mix of people who are working multiple jobs to get by.

Crosland Park is filled with a lot of people and families who work hard every day, Price said.

Simmons said he left in the 1970s, but when he returned to the area it was different.

Simmons said people moving away has changed and there isnt sense of community Crosland Park like in the past.

When I was a toddler this was an (up and coming) subdivision, Simmons said.

Older residents who held the neighborhood together died or moved away, Simmons said.

He also has observed people not taking care of their homes, not caring about the neighborhood and lot of vacant properties.

Means said a lot of problems in the neighborhood are due to some peoples associations with others who bring it on themselves. He said that shouldnt be blamed on the neighborhood.

I think (shootings) are going to get worse and not just in Crosland, he said.

Yount said the neighborhood has problems and the cooperative is working on ways to improve it.

It is kind of like taking a step forward and taking five steps backward, he said.

Improvements have been made

Last year the city installed cameras in downtown Aiken and the Toole Hill and Crosland Park neighborhoods, according to Aiken City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh. He said LED lights were installed in those areas to make them brighter.

Bedenbaugh said the cameras and lights came after conversations with the Crosland Park Neighborhood Cooperative.

My thoughts on the cameras is that they should have been done a long time ago, Means said. Activity has changed a lot since they have been there and I have seen great improvements over there.

Simmons said the lights and the cameras are great additions, and the neighborhood has been quiet for a few months, but once criminals beat the system crime could increase again.

Means said building a relationship with the police is important.

The community of them (law enforcement) coming out and getting to know each other and it builds strength, Means said. "There is no such thing as us against them, we are in this thing together.

Hayes said the police have several crime prevention measures in Crosland Park and other neighborhoods in the city, like Coffee with a Cop, Citizen's Academy and community workshops.

Price said there are solutions to address crime that work, but they cost money. He said one solution is creating jobs and other opportunities for people besides turning to a life of crime.

Yount recommends becoming more involved and finding ways to make changes.

If you see something you need to say something," Yount said.
Hundreds of people lined up outside the new Goodwill in the rain in North Augusta on Friday, Feb. 17, for its ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony.

The 12,000 square feet of retail space at 1117 Knox Ave. will later become a site for a Goodwill Career Center  its 10th in the Middle Georgia region.

I think this is one of our best openings. We are so excited. It means so much that we can do for the community, so that is really what excites us  the opportunity to change lives, Christine Butler, VP of Retail Sales with Goodwill said.

The opening of the Goodwill store in the Martintown Plaza shopping center comes almost a decade after its closure in the same shopping center. The nonprofit retail space left when Belk expanded.

The Goodwill before was a lot smaller. Probably a third of this size, so we have grown a lot over the years, Butler said. Our back room just didnt work for us at that time so we had made a lot of transitions in our production department and different things like that so this store checks all the windows, so we are really excited to be back in North Augusta. We actually have been looking for a place since we left North Augusta.

The Goodwill location will also feature a drop-off donation lane that will open in mid-March.

+3 School board discusses in-school suspension following verbal altercation allegations against Aiken High cheerleaders Several parents and students with the Aiken High School cheerleading squad spoke to the Aiken County Board of Education on Feb. 14 about an al

The Central Savannah River Area has been our home since 1996, and we are excited to now have a second retail training store on the South Carolina side of the river, said James K. Stiff, President of Goodwill of Middle Georgia & the CSRA. Community support is what powers our mission, and we are grateful for the support North Augusta has shown us.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities at Goodwill in North Augusta, contact Tony Cross at tcross@goodwillworks.org or online at www.goodwillworks.org.
Moncks Corner, SC (29461)

Today

Mostly cloudy in the morning with scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. High 82F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms in the evening. Partly cloudy skies overnight. Low 54F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
A downtown Charleston dining spot plans to move its restaurant operations to a new location and convert the existing space into an events venue.

Bistro A Vin will move in March from 40 Archdale St. to just around the corner at 159 Market St., where Cafe Framboise once operated. The restaurant and cocktail bar will be rebranded as Azur and include an expanded menu of French dishes.

The Archdale Street site will become Azur Events, a private event space. It, too, will open in March.

The updated restaurant menu comes from executive chef and co-owner Dominic Chantepie. It also will include a curated wine list and housemade desserts.

The cocktail list will be provided by Mathis Chantepie, son of Dominic and Florence Chantepie. Joining the Chantepies as co-owner and general manager is Benjamin Boisson.

"We are extremely excited to delve into the private event space in Charleston," said Florence Chantepie. "With the opening of Azur and Azur Events, we will be able to cater to more people in the area and provide them with a unique and memorable experience."
It turns out the second time's a charm for the State Ports Authority.

After the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals denied the SPA's initial request for an expedited hearing in a labor dispute involving the Leatherman Terminal in North Charleston, the maritime agency asked for a reconsideration.

The Richmond, Va., court obviously bought the revised argument, agreeing on Feb. 23 to put the case on a fast track.

Instead of a process that could drag on for years, the appeals court wants all sides to file their legal briefs and responses by May 26.

A three-judge panel could hear arguments afterward. It's not clear how long the panel would take to rule after that.

The court is hearing the SPAs appeal of a National Labor Relations Board decision on Dec. 16 that states members of the International Longshoremens Association must operate the ship-to-shore cranes at the Leatherman wharf on the old Navy base. The ruling threatens the so-called hybrid workforce model used at the Port of Charleston's other terminals, where SPA workers operate the cranes while the ILA members move cargo through the yard.

The federal labor board opposes the expedited schedule. It said the SPA appeared to be in no hurry after the first ruling, waiting more than a month to challenge the decision. The board added it's not fair to let the SPA leapfrog older appeals on the court's docket.

The NLRB also questioned the SPA's contention that a drawn-out resolution would threaten the nation's supply chain. It pointed out in court papers that the authority has bragged about its ability to move cargo smoothly despite a record number of imports the past couple of years.

The dispute stems from a 2012 contract revision between the ILA and the U.S. Maritime Alliance, a consortium of shipping lines that hires the union members to load and unload cargo from its vessels. The change called for ILA members to operate the cranes at all new terminals opening on the East and Gulf coasts. The $1 billion first phase of the Leatherman Terminal, which opened in March 2021, was the first test of that new labor pact.

Most container lines are refusing to use the Leatherman until the dispute is resolved. The facility is operating at about 25 percent of its capacity.

Barbara Melvin, the SPA's president and CEO, said the agency continues to work with the ILA to shore up what's been a sometimes difficult relationship between the two entities.

"There is always ongoing conversations," she said. "We are building that relationship to be stronger than it was in the past, and so that requires ongoing conversations as the issue itself moves through the courts."

Going green

A new partnership between BMW Manufacturing and global mining group Rio Tinto will provide responsibly sourced aluminum to the automaker's Upstate campus for use in body components starting next year.

The move is meant to appeal to a growing number of premium car buyers who want a more environmentally friendly ride.

The low-carbon primary aluminum from Rio Tinto's hydro-powered operations in Canada, combined with recycled content, could generate a reduction of up to 70 percent in carbon emissions compared to other aluminum that BMW uses in the X-model sport-utility vehicles it builds in Greer.

The two companies have signed an agreement that calls for technical experts from both sides to find a way to embed the low-carbon aluminum into BMW's supply chain.

"As global demand for responsibly sourced materials continues to grow, automakers are increasingly looking to partner with suppliers who share their commitment to traceability and sustainability," Alf Barrios, Rio Tinto's chief commercial officer, said in a written statement.

Joachim Post, a member of BMW's board of management, said the aluminum deal is part of the German automaker's goal of reducing emissions from the goods it purchases from suppliers.
COLUMBIA  Former Mayor Steve Benjamin will take a spot at the White House as senior advisor and director of the Office of Public Engagement.

Benjamin, who spent 11 years helming South Carolina's capital city, will oversee teams communicating initiatives to business and community leaders across the country and, in turn, bring ideas back to Washington, D.C., to inform policymaking.

"Really, it's the front door, the eyes and ears of the White House," Benjamin said. "I'm looking forward to this exciting new challenge."

As president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the African American Mayors Association, as well as executive chairman of Municipal Bonds for America, Benjamin worked with President Joe Biden while Biden was vice president on infrastructure issues.

Benjamin, who owns a consulting firm, has been in the national spotlight before. Then-President Barack Obama recognized Benjamin for his work on My Brother's Keeper, a program Obama launched to help address opportunity gaps for boys and young men of color, according to its website. He also spoke at the 2016 Democratic National Convention.

"Steves deep relationships with communities across the country will serve our administration and the American public well," Biden said in a news release.

Among other positions, Benjamin served as chief executive of the state Department of Probation, Parole and Pardon Services under then-Gov. Jim Hodges.

Keisha Lance Bottoms, former mayor of Atlanta, was appointed to the Office of Public Engagement in June 2022, according to the news release.

Benjamin got a call in late 2022 asking whether he'd be interested in taking over after Lance Bottoms left. Benjamin accepted, leaning on his experience as mayor and head of municipal groups in helping him learn to listen to many views about problems and finding complex solutions, he said.

"They were looking for someone who had the ear of not only the people, which I think the mayor always does, but also some broad and extensive relationships to bring to the White House that might help us more effectively communicate the president's priorities," Benjamin said.
Ryan Jones fought the urge to hug the fire marshal after he gave his now-open downtown Charleston restaurant Southbound the green light.

Years in the making, Southbound at 72 Cannon St. was supposed to be Ryan and Kelleanne Jones first restaurant, with the name hinting at their move from Connecticut to South Carolina seven years ago. Delays and the interruption of COVID-19 led them to debut two Mount Pleasant restaurants first: Community Table and Kiki & Rye.

Now its kind of Southbound-ish, Ryan Jones joked last year.

Setbacks behind them, the couple has been welcoming diners into the new restaurant since Feb. 10. The main level of the 2,000-square-foot, two-story space has a large wood-fired grill serving as the stunning centerpiece. An ironclad spiral staircase takes diners up to the second story of the historic home, equipped with a bar and dining area.

The space, its unique to whats going on in town. We know were serving stuff that youre not seeing around town, as well, Ryan Jones said. Its been a long time coming.

Centered around live-fire cooking, the menu, printed daily, features appetizers like confit duck with apple parsnip puree and salt roasted beets, whetting the palate for expertly cooked golden tilefish piccata, barbecue lacquered chicken and a bone-in ribeye for two. Sides, meant to be shared, include large charred shishito peppers, coal-roasted potatoes, and hot and sour cauliflower.

Southbound is open from 4-10 p.m. daily. For more information, visit southboundchs.com.
A Greenville County sheriffs deputy shot another deputy in the foot during a recent training exercise.

The Greenville County Sheriffs Office K9 Unit was training Feb. 22 with local law enforcement in Abbeville County when the shooting happened, GCSO spokesman Lt. Ryan Flood said. It is typical for agencies to train together.

The injured deputy was released from the hospital, Flood said. The shooting occurred on Industrial Park Road and state Highway 28 in Abbeville County.

The GCSO Office of Professional Standards is investigating the incident. The deputy who shot the injured deputy has been placed on paid administrative leave.

No further details about the incident were immediately available.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, free dental clinics in the tri-county area were scarce. And clinics performing more extensive dental care, such as root canals, were even more rare.

However, at least one clinic, Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach Dental Clinic on Johns Island, was providing free endodontic services, or root canals, for patients who were either uninsured or underinsured, with the help of volunteer dental residents from the Medical University of South Carolina's College of Dental Medicine.

The endodontic part of the clinic was sponsored by the College of Dental Medicine beginning in 2011. General dentistry and endodontic residents volunteered at the clinic once a week, performing routine care like fillings and sealants as well as root canals.

But when the pandemic swept through the Lowcountry, numerous in-person medical and dental services were forced to close out an abundance of caution, including Our Lady of Mercy. It stayed closed for nearly three years.

Recently, the nonprofit reopened its dental clinic and endodontic services to the public, bringing in more residents from MUSC.

"There is always a need," Dr. Theodore Ravenel said, head of the endodontic residency graduate program at MUSC's College of Dental Medicine.

Ravenel also oversees the endodontic arm at Our Lady of Mercy's Dental Clinic.

"It's a win-win for everybody," Ravenel said. "Students are able to do more procedures and the community is able to get a service that a lot of people don't provide."

Dr. Ashlee Franklin, dental director for the outreach center, said more than half of the patients in the dental clinic have never been seen by a dentist.

"Many of them migrated from different countries where dental care wasn't offered or wasn't a necessity," Franklin told The Post and Courier.

As a result, Franklin said, many of those who come to the clinic have done so as a last resort due to pain or swelling rather than for routine care.

Periodontal disease, a severe gum infection that damages tissue and bone supporting the teeth, along with broken teeth and abscess infections are common for patients in the clinic.

"When they come in, a lot of them are in need of a deep cleaning because they've never had attention to their teeth or to their gum tissue," Franklin said. "Some come when they've avoided the problem, until they can't anymore."

A 2020 oral health report on South Carolina from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found more than 30 percent of adults 18 and older hadn't visited a dental clinic in over a year.

And according to the Oral Health Surveillance Report from the CDC, 25 percent of adults ages 20 to 64 had untreated tooth decay. The rates of untreated tooth decay were also twice as high for Black, Hispanic, poor and near poor individuals.

Now that the outreach center has fully reopened its dental clinic, Franklin said the center is increasingly seeing more dental patients and scheduling more root canal procedures on the days endodontic residents visit the clinic.

In January, the endodontics team treated 23 patients during its monthly root canal clinic.

Before patients are seen by MUSC residents, they are screened for various teeth and gum issues and then referred to endodontic services when needed.

Ravenel said free dental clinics with endodontic services are rare occurrences because of the cost.

"The overhead costs for dentist offices are significant," Ravenel said, referring to the more cost-efficient dental procedures free clinics perform like extractions, and simple cleanings. "It's hard to exist out there if you're running a free clinic. Our Lady of Mercy is very lucky because they they have a great setup."

The clinic receives numerous monetary donations as well as donated dental equipment to use.

The clinic also partners with the dental hygienists program at Trident Technical College, which provides volunteers at the clinic on a weekly basis.

A new generation

MUSC's partnership with Our Lady of Mercy began in 2011 in an effort to encourage dental residents to give back to the community once they've completed their residency and go into private practice.

Dr. Michelle Ziegler, director of the advanced education in general dentistry program at MUSC, which provides volunteer dentists for Our Lady of Mercy, said the clinic is not only a life changing experience for the patients but also the volunteers.

"The great value in this outreach is really to inspire our future dentists to see the importance of giving back to the community," Ziegler said. "By seeing it firsthand, we hope it will inspire them to continue to provide these services once they leave here."

Zeigler said many of the patients are new, but a good number of the patients use the clinic as their dental home, scheduling routine cleanings and dental work when needed.

Zeigler said people should see a dentist every six months after age 2. And for patients of the clinic, "who can't afford care, keeping on top of things is really important."

Risks associated with not having routine dental care include frequent cavities, periodontal disease and other oral infections that cause loose teeth or in severe cases, loss of teeth.

Ziegler also said oral health is a big part of the body's overall health, citing links between periodontal disease, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, research suggests that periodontal disease may contribute to the progression of other diseases including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, pneumonia and Alzheimer's.

Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach is a comprehensive care center, providing a number of different services for those in need including a women's health clinic, educational opportunities, food assistance and other necessities.

Those without insurance or the means to pay can take advantage of their services. Dental services are offered at both the Johns Island and downtown Charleston locations.

To find out if you qualify, dial 843-559-4109 and visit olmoutreach.org to learn more about the different outreach programs in your area.
Summerville, SC (29483)

Today

Cloudy early. Scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. High 82F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening, then partly cloudy overnight. Low 52F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

Mostly cloudy in the morning with scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. High 82F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms in the evening. Partly cloudy skies overnight. Low 52F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Mostly cloudy in the morning. Isolated thunderstorms may develop later in the day. Storms may contain strong gusty winds. High 81F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening, then partly cloudy overnight. Low 54F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Theres not a lot that government can do to prevent power from going out because of hurricanes or ice storms or other natural disasters. Well, other than requiring utilities to bury their lines  which is sometimes appropriate but also costly to customers, most of whom dont have a choice but to be customers.

But when it comes to power outages caused by deliberate human actions  be they terrorist acts or just bored or inebriated people who cant think of a better way to get their jollies  theres a much clearer role for government, and one that doesnt cost taxpayers anything. Well, other than the cost of incarcerating the perpetrators.

Fortunately, we havent experienced massive attacks on the power grid in South Carolina, although Dominion Energy South Carolina President Keller Kissam told lawmakers earlier this year that there were 12 attacks in our state last year.

Unfortunately, a December attack on two Duke Energy substations in North Carolina left more than 45,000 people out of power for much of a week  and was one of at least 120 attacks nationwide last year. While officials havent determined the motivation behind the N.C. attack, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security warned a year ago that domestic extremists had been developing credible, specific plans to attack electricity infrastructure since at least 2020.

Time Magazine reports that federal officials worry that the rise in incidents suggests the perpetrators may be drawing inspiration from one another, fine-tuning strategies to pursue potentially more damaging copycat attacks and that each one further emboldens a determined cadre of criminals and highlights the U.S. power grid as a target.

Disrupting even a small part of the energy grid can lead to fatal traffic accidents when stoplights go out; it can cause medically fragile people to die when their lifesaving equipment quits on them. Individuals lose time and money when food in their refrigerators and freezers spoils. Businesses face added costs when they have to close for days on end. There is also a cost to taxpayers when schools have to close  and a cost to students when their education is disrupted.

As we said at the time of the N.C. attack, the uptick in attacks points to a clear response needed from our Legislature, which must send a message to would-be saboteurs that South Carolina is not a place where they want to mess with the grid.

So we welcome legislation approved Tuesday by the S.C. Senate Judiciary Committee that would increase the penalty for deliberately damaging electricity or other utility equipment, from the current maximum of 10 years in prison to as much as 25 years.

The bill by Senate Judiciary Chairman Luke Rankin doesnt care whether the saboteurs are terrorists or common criminals stealing copper wire or trying to take out the power so they can rob businesses. It doesn't care if they are drunks with impaired judgment and values. It appropriately addresses the damage, not the motivation.

Under S.330, the maximum possible sentence would be dictated by the amount of damage caused to the utility equipment and to customers who are harmed by the damage: 10 years for less than $10,000 worth of damage, for example, 20 years for damage of $25,000 or more and 25 years if anyone is injured or killed as a result. The legislation also allows judges to impose fines as high as they want.

Another provision would expand the crime to include attacks on gasoline, natural gas and propane equipment and to specifically outlaw shooting them.

But while we like the idea of basing sentences on the amount of damage, were not convinced these sentences are tough enough to do the job. Violators should face prison sentences and fines commensurate with the human and economic damage  which in an attack on the scale of the one last year in North Carolina should mean decades in prison and fines of the sort that our state rarely imposes. If people die as a result of a power outage, the person who caused it should be charged with homicide.

Although we dont generally support mandatory minimum sentences  we believe judges need discretion to tailor sentences based on the circumstances  we do like giving judges more guidance than this: Tell a judge the maximum sentence is 25 years, and a 1-day sentence quite literally complies with the law. It might make more sense to provide sentencing ranges, and let judges spell out reasons for sentencing someone to less than the range  or more than the range. (And yes, that approach might make sense in a lot of areas, but were talking about power grid attacks right now.)

While utilities work to better safeguard their equipment and federal officials work to require that, it's important for our state to send a very clear message that we will not tolerate attacks here, because of the devastating effects they can have on our entire society. As Dominions president testified: You can see what Russia has done to demoralize Ukraine, and that is attack the electric infrastructure. You want to demoralize the people, you put them in the dark. You want to doubly demoralize them, you put them in the dark and you put them in the cold.
For meddling in the outcome of the Nigerian presidential election, a famous Zimbabwean prophet, Passion Java, is currently feeling the heat.

In a television interview, the founder of the Kingdom Embassy church, Zimbabwe announced that he had seen the results of the presidential election held last Saturday in a vision.

Although he didnt say who the winner was, the flamboyant and controversial prophet gave clues which suggest that the All Progressives Congress candidate, Bola Tinubu, won the election.

The prophet, also an associate of the Zimbabwean president, Emerson Mnangagwa, promised to storm Nigeria with fire in 2023.

In Nigeria, we already saw the elections. When I prophesied on International Day of Prophecy, I saw this man with glasses, whose name was like T. I saw him walking into power this February.

We live in the future. We are prophetic. Prophets are scared to say it. We know what happened, so we say it. But this one is working in power and is guaranteed, said the prophet who dropped his first single, Kopo, in 2022.

Reactions

Nigerians have flooded the preachers Instagram page with comments, most expressing dissatisfaction with his prophecy.

In a post, the prophet prayed for Nigeria. God bless Nigeria In Jesus name AMEN, he wrote.

The post drew various reactions from Nigerian Instagram users, with many insulting the preacher for his prophecy.

An Instagram user, laa_venderrr, expressly told Mr Jav that what the APC has done to Nigeria will happen to him and his family.

Darryl_maccrinn also threatened the pastor, asking him not to visit Port Harcourt City when he is in the country.

If you are coming to Nigeria, do not enter Port Harcourt. I repeat, do not enter Port Harcourt cus we go do you wetin happen for 1776, he wrote.

Miz_jessyy called him a prophet of doom, drawing his attention to what she calls election rigging.

Lillian Wegba, however, opined that the preacher is using Nigeria to get traffic on his page.

Controversy

Like his Nigerian counterparts, Mr Java is known to be enmeshed in one controversy or the other.

He recently allegedly ordered his mistress Yolanda Makaya to abort an eight-month pregnancy.

The flamboyant preacher was also said to have blown half a million rands on a custom Gucci suit!

His church, at different points, has been called out for announcing false prophecies.

Passion Java

Born Panganai Java, the 35-year-old is a Zimbabwean preacher, socialite, entrepreneur, music promoter and author. The son of a politician, Mr Java, was said to have started prophesying in grade four.

He started church ministry work at his brothers church Tabernacles of Grace, before starting his own church Kingdom Embassy.

He started Kingdom Embassy as a prophet in 2010 at the Chitungwiza Aquatic Complex. He grew to prominence when he predicted service audience members phone numbers and ID numbers.

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Mr Java is said to be mentored by Noel Jones and Benny Hinn as his advisor.

In 2015, Java launched a music label called PJ Records, where gospel artistes would go and record music for free.

In 2021, he was named the most influential Zimbabwean under 40.

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The campaign organisation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of plots to manipulate the result of elections in Imo and Ebonyi states.

A spokesperson of the Atiku campaign, Dele Momodu, made the accusations in a statement shared with PREMIUM TIMES.

The campaign also claimed that it was the only party currently meeting the constitutional threshold of scoring 25 per cent of votes in two-thirds of the states of Nigeria and Abuja.

We remain the only political party which has secured the necessary 25 per cent spread across 24 states in the country, it said.

Being the text of the conference addressed by Bashorun Dele Momodu on behalf of the PDP Presidential Campaign Council on Monday, 27th February 2023 at the Headquarters of the PDP Presidential Campaign Organisation in Abuja.

Good morning gentlemen of the press. On Saturday, the 25th of February, Nigerians turned out in large numbers to cast their votes in the presidential and National Assembly election. On behalf of our presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Council, we wish to thank all Nigerians irrespective of their political affiliations for turning up to vote for the candidates of their choice.

We also want to commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the security agencies and all other paramilitary forces for ensuring that the atmosphere of the election was peaceful.

Having cast their votes, Nigerians are earnestly expecting the results to be announced. It is also their expectation that the announced results will be in alignment with the ballots they had cast. As a campaign, we expect nothing less.

We have been following the trend of post-election activities and it is our desire to reset certain wrong impressions being created to confuse the public.

From already collated results data we are proud to inform Nigerians that the Peoples Democratic Party remains in the lead in the election of last weekend.

We remain the only political party which has secured the necessary 25 per cent spread across 24 states in the country. No other political party has been able to cross this essential constitutional requirement.

As a matter of fact, we have it on credible grounds that our main opponent in this election, the All Progressives Congress party, is currently mounting pressure in attempts to have their way to secure 25 per cent performance in both Imo and Ebonyi states.

It is on the merits of this intelligence that we are calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to apply necessary precautions before announcing procured results in the presidential election from these two states. Our presidential candidate had yesterday urged the INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, to instruct Collation Officers to upload results from the Polling Units to the INEC server to avert those results from being compromised by some Governors of the ruling party who were shopping for numbers to make up for their shortfalls.

As we speak, the APC has not been able to meet the 25 per cent threshold and we demand that INEC should not cave in to the pressures and desperation of the APC to buy advantages for itself in this regard.

Similarly, we have it on good grounds that the APC is currently making attempts to shore up votes from Lagos State to their advantage. From already collated results, the APC is not leading in Lagos and we have credible information that they are currently shopping for means of manufacturing humongous figures to their advantage in the state. Similarly, we urge the Independent National Electoral Commission to resist the pressure being mounted on it by the APC to compromise the Lagos Central Senatorial District election where the Peoples Democratic Party is in a clear lead. We further urge the electoral commission to put substantial surveillance on Lagos State. The APC are doing ALL within their means to cheat in Lagos.

There is extensive ongoing manipulation of results in Katsina, Jigawa, Sokoto and Zamfara, among other states where result sheets are being changed and uploaded. INEC MUST not declare any result until the BVAS machines are verified. In areas where the PDP is winning, results are being cancelled.

To the supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party, we want to specially thank you for the terrific work that you have done to put our great party on the path towards victory in the election and to assure you that the Recover Nigeria project is on course.

Through your incredible efforts, we are happy to inform you, our members, that we are doing extremely well in the Northwest and the Northeast. We are competitive in the South-South and North Central. No other party has the kind of leading edge that we have in this election.

We urge you all our esteemed members to disregard the mind games being played by the APC. From our standpoint, the APC has no justifiable path to winning this election. Unlike the PDP, the APC lacks the spread, and unlike the PDP, the figures are not adding up for them.

Therefore, we urge PDP members to be vigilant, remain steadfast, and be peaceful.

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The agents of major opposition parties at the national collation centre in Abuja walked out of the venue in protest at the exercise.

Dino Melaye and Emeka Ihedioha of the PDP had accused INEC of violating the Electoral Act by going ahead with the result collation and announcement despite not uploading the results on the iREV portal.

Agents of some other parties, including those of the SDP, LP and ADP had expressed similar views.

The aggrieved agents all walked out of the venue.

INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu rejected the demand of the agents and said the protest would continue.

INEC then continued with the collation exercise.

We are not here to rubber stamp the electoral fraud that has been declared by INEC and APC, Mr Melaye told journalists after the election.

INEC is compromised. APC has influenced INEC, he said.

More details later

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Dangote Cement reported an increase in its bottom line for 2022 as its net profit slowed to a single digit from as much as 32 per cent in the preceding year.

Although the growth was impacted by headwinds from operational costs and the urgency to commit part of revenue to expansion, revenue for the year under review came to N1.6 trillion from N1.4 trillion, a 17 per cent jump.

The need to scale means sub-Saharan Africas largest cement producer invested more fund summing up to N249.3 billion in twenty five of its subsidiaries, most of them outside Nigeria, rather than allowing the cash to boost profit.

Independent auditor KPMG highlighted the development in a report accompanying the audited financials released on Monday, noting that some of those units are currently loss-making and are dependent on financial support from the group.

The industrial giant recorded the fairly stronger revenue despite a slide in sales volume, hiking prices of products to boost turnover.

Altogether, 27.8 million tonnes of cement and clinker were sold relative 29.3 million for the previous year.

Administrative expenses climbed a quarter to N79.9 billion, largely spurred by labour costs.

Dangote Cement incurred N295.2 billion in selling and distribution expenses, which rose by more than a half, mirroring the weight of transporting expenses on businesses in its home market Nigeria, where logistics cost is one of the worlds highest.

Profit before tax fell 2.7 per cent to N524 billion as the cash allocated to servicing debt through finance costs nearly doubled.

But profit after tax improved, deriving strength from a lower income tax expense, rising to N382.3 billion from N364.4 billion.

Shareholders payment

Meanwhile, the company says it will stick to the same amount paid to shareholders in fiscal year 2021 for 2022.

The corporation disclosed in its audited annual report it would pay a dividend of N20 per share for 2022, retaining the payout level for 2021 when it declared N340.8 billion in total.

Directors consider the capital needed to fund the companys operations and expansion plans, the document said, above the need to raise cash rewards for shareholders.

The stocks price saw no upward movement at the end of trade in Lagos, where it has a quotation of N272 per unit, which could mean the announcement is no cheering news for equity investors.

Subject to withholding tax, the dividend proposal awaits shareholders endorsement at Dangote Cements forthcoming annual general meeting, with qualification date set for 30 March.

By April 14, 2023, dividends will be paid electronically to shareholders whose names appear in the Register of Members as at March 30, 2023, the company says elsewhere.

The company is setting up a new cement factory at Itori, Ogun State, expected to add 6 million tonnes to its current nameplate capacity of 51.6 million tonnes per year.

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Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has lost his senatorial bid to the Labour Party (LP) candidate for the district, Okechukwu Ezea.

Mr Ugwuanyi, who is rounding off his second term as governor, is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Enugu North Senatorial District election held on Saturday 25 February.

The Returning Officer for the election, Chukwuemeka Ubaka, announced the result at the collation centre of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nsukka Local Government Area headquarters on Monday at about 5: 20 a.m.

Mr Ezea, the LP candidate, polled a total of 104,492 votes to defeat Mr Ugwuanyi of the PDP, who came second with 46,948 votes.

The All Progressives Congress candidate for the district, Ejike Eze, garnered 6,816 votes to come a distant third.

Mr Ubaka, a professor, said Mr Ezea was declared the winner in the exercise because he justified all the requirements of the law having scored the highest number of votes in the election.

Mild drama

Earlier, there was mild drama at the INEC collation centre in the district, when Mr Ubaka, the returning officer, said he would not collate the senatorial results unless he was given the districts authentic forms for results and declaration.

Some LP members had accused the returning officer of colluding with an unnamed opposition candidate to overturn the result against the eventual winner.

The results of the exercise from the six local government areas that make up the district had put Mr Ezea in front, after reportedly winning in nearly all the council areas.

The six council areas that make up the district include Nsukka, Igbo-Eze South, Igbo-Eze North, Igbo-Etiti, Uzo-Uwani and Udenu, where Mr Ugwuanyi hails from.

Upset

The defeat of Mr Ugwuanyi marked the first time an opposition political party would unseat a candidate of the ruling PDP in the state.

The PDP had never lost any election in the state since the return of democracy in 1999.

Chukwuka Utazi, the incumbent senator representing the district, had stepped down for Mr Ugwuanyi, ahead of the PDP primary election for the district in May last year.

Mr Ugwunanyi is a member of the G5 group of PDP governors opposed to their partys presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. He will exit office as the governor of the state on 29 May this year after his two terms in office.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how the LP House of Representatives candidate for Nsukka-Igbo-Eze South Constituency defeated the PDP candidate in the constituency election for the first time since 1999.

The historic electoral wins by the LP in the state, observers say, were due to the effect of Peter Obi, the LP presidential candidate, who has been enjoying swelling support across the South-east and some parts of the South-south.

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The presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has taken the lead in the Federal Capital Territory with one Area Council left.

Mr Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, has 111,352 votes from the five Area Councils declared so far.

The candidate of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu, is in second position with 61,306 votes while Atiku AbuThebakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is in third position with 47,792 votes.

So far, the results from Gwagwalada, Kwali, Bwari, Abaji and Kuje have been declared at the FCT collation centre.

The only Area Council left is Abuja Municipal.

Mr Obi won Kuje Area Council with 14,257 votes, while Mr Tinubu maintained second position with 10648 votes and Atiku came third with 10028 votes.

In Gwagwalada, Mr Obi polled 19694 votes, putting him ahead of the APC candidate who scored 15890 votes and Atiku managed 10987 votes.

So far, Mr Obi polled the biggest victory in Bwari Area Council, where he polled 67198 votes against the 13156 and 10835 votes got by APC and PDP respectively.

In Kwali, Mr Tinubu polled 11,242 votes to defeat his closest rival, Atiku Abubakar who 9,054 votes while Mr Obi scored 7,302 votes to emerge third in the Area Council.

In Abaji, Mr Tinubu garnered 10,370 votes leaving Atiku to trail with 6888 votes and Mr Obi emerging a distance third with 2874 votes.

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Nigerias main opposition party, PDP, has threatened to reject the result of the presidential election.

The PDP agent at the national collation centre in Abuja, Dino Melaye, said this Monday while speaking after the presidential election result for Kwara was announced. Mr Melaye at that point raised concerns about the result of the election in Ekiti which was announced on Sunday.

He argued that the failure of INEC to promptly upload online results from polling units makes the results questionable. He said that the PDP will contest the authenticity of the INEC results.

As I speak to you, those results were not uploaded for several hours, Mr Melaye added. Yesterday I complained to the chairman and two other commissioners and in my presence, they called the REC in Imo, where even the director of ICT was saying they should use offline to upload. So if results were not uploaded, we as parties cannot be challenged that the process is over. The process is not over because it is faulty and results were not uploaded.

On Sunday, INEC admitted the slow uploading of polling unit results on its result viewing portal (IRev).

The commission said the problem is due to technical hitches.

It is indeed not unusual for glitches to occur and be corrected in such situations, INEC said in a statement.

It, however, assures Nigerians that the challenges are not due to any intrusion or sabotage of our systems and that the IReV remains well-secured.

Another agent of the PDP, Emeka Ihedioha, raised the same concerns, saying results presented at the polling unit are contrary to what is being presented at the collation centre in Abuja.

As we speak, efforts are still ongoing to undermine that process in a number of states, Mr Ihedioha said. It is clear that there were problems with uploading the results, which is fundamental to where we are.

It is clear to us that in the course of collation, collation officers were forced by people who think they are more powerful to return results, Mr Ihedioha added.

At the collation centre, the spokesperson of the PDP, Mr Melaye, also raised concerns about the election results in Ekiti State, which was announced at the national collation centre on Sunday.

I worked on the results as presented yesterday and I discovered that we have 987,647 registered voters in Ekiti and 301, 558 accredited, he said, alleging there was overvoting. And since we have 301, 558 accredited, the results as presented yesterday, APC had 201,494. If you subtract that from 301, 558, what you have left is 100, 064.

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Out of 100,064, PDP scored 89, 554, if you subtract that from 100,064, what is left is 10,510. And now, it was also recorded that Labour had 11, 397 when the total number left is 10, 510, leaving an over figure of 887.

Apart from this surplus, we have not even calculated the votes of other political parties. We recall that yesterday you told us that ADC scored 1037.

Mr Melaye told the INEC chairman that the figures did not add up, alleging that there was over-voting and the total number of votes for political parties outnumbered the number of accredited votes.

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The Labour Party, one of Nigerias main opposition parties in the 2023 elections, has rejected the ongoing collation and announcement of the presidential election results in Abuja.

The party Monday said it was doing so because INEC failed to publish all the results from polling units on its iREV server.

The opposition party thus questioned the integrity of the collation and announcement exercise at the national collation centre in Abuja.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had raised similar questions as the collation of the presidential election results resumed at the National Collation Centre in Abuja on Monday.

The Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi, is one of the four presidential candidates that have won at least one state in the elections.

On Sunday, INEC admitted the slow uploading of polling unit results on its result viewing portal (IRev). The commission said the problem is due to technical hitches.

It is indeed not unusual for glitches to occur and be corrected in such situations, INEC said in a statement. It, however, assures Nigerians that the challenges are not due to any intrusion or sabotage of our systems and that the IReV remains well-secured.

READ ALSO:

Some political parties including the PDP have protested the delay in the uploading of the presidential election results on the election results Viewing portal (IRev), insisting that collation will not continue until that is done.

They also claimed that there are cases of over-voting in the results of Ekiti and Kwara states as presented by their collation officers and Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Other parties like NRM and APC asked INEC to ignore this call.

But the INEC chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, insisted that the cases of over-voting should have been flagged at either their polling units during counting, the registration areas, during local government collation or at the state collation centres. The parties have their representatives in all three levels, he said.

He said while the commission has the power to review the electoral process, it is contingent after the initial process is concluded.

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The Presidential Campaign Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the two main opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party of seeking to use the court to stop the ongoing collation of results.

The campaign, in a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Affairs of the PCC, Festus Keyamo, stated that the Electoral Act prohibits the court from stopping the conduct of elections in Nigeria.

He stated that the aggrieved parties cannot use the court to stop the electoral process as it is against section 84 (15) of the Electoral Act which prohibits the grant of injunctions to stop the holding of elections.

Disagreement over uploading of results on IReV

Both the PDP and LP have rejected the ongoing collation of results at the National Collation Centre, insisting that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must upload the results to the election result viewing portal (IRev).

The representatives of the two parties and some other political parties had earlier on Monday walked out of the centre in protest during the collation of results.

Mr Melaye had attempted to interrupt the presentation of results by the Ekiti State REC and collation officer, insisting that the commission must upload the result on IReV and display them for viewing as states collation officers and their RECs present the results.

In the statement, Mr Keyamo alleged that the parties are seeking to use the court to truncate the outcome of the Saturday presidential election.

Read the full statement by APC Presidential Campaign Council

PDP AND LABOUR PARTY ARE SHOPPING FOR COURT ORDERS TO STOP THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION RESULTS AND THROW THE COUNTRY INTO CONSTITUTIONAL CRISES

We have it on good authority that the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party have perfected plans to finally scuttle our democracy and throw the country into constitutional crises by surreptitiously obtaining exparte court orders stopping the announcement of the Presidential Election results which they fear have gone against them.

The walk-out they staged today at the National Collation Center is just a precursor to executing the plan

Nigerians would recall that the June 12, 1993 debacle that brought Nigeria to its knees and caused our country international isolation was precipitated by a court injunction stopping the announcement of Presidential Election results. The court order was obtained by a certain Association for Better Nigeria headed then by one Chief Authur Nzeribe. This is exactly what Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Mr Peter Obi want to foist on this nation again because of their inordinate ambitions. This is not surprising because both candidates where nowhere to be seen when ASIWAJU was fighting for the democracy we all enjoy today.

However, we wish to draw the attention of Nigerians, the Judiciary and the world to the provisions of section 84 (15) of the Electoral Act which prohibits the grant of injunctions to the stop the holding of elections (which includes the declaration of results). The section states:

Nothing in this section shall empower the courts to stop the holding of primaries or general elections under this Act pending the determination of a suit.

This has prompted their instructions to their campaign organizations, especially their spokespersons to continue to issue statements, making false claims of victory when there is no single scientific basis for such claims. For instance, as outlandish as some of their claims of manipulation are, they have not pointed at one single presidential election result in any single unit in the whole country where they scored a particular figure with a result sheet duly signed by their agent that was subsequently changed at a Collation Centre. All we hear are sound bites of their spokespersons, huffing and puffing about winning the election just to whip up public sentiments to prepare the ground to reject the results when they are eventually released by INEC.

For us our position is very simple and straight forward: we wish to allow the legal process of declaring presidential election results to take place peacefully and in an orderly fashion. ASIWAJU is not desperate, but is very confident of victory.

We therefore wish to advice anyone who wishes to aid and encourage these candidates along this infamous part to remember the June 12 debacle. They may also wish to learn a lesson or two from President Muhammadu Buhari who resorted to the court of law in 2003, 2007 and 2011 when same PDP defeated him in those presidential elections in controversial circumstances. President Buhari, as a true statesman and democrat, never resorted to underhand tactics to declare himself President.

We hope a word is enough for the wise.

Thank you.

FESTUS KEYAMO, SAN, FCIArb(UK)

Director of Public Affairs and Chief Spokesperson, Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council.

Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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Leko Gambo of the All Progressive Congress (APC) has been declared the winner for Dass/Bogoro/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency seat in Bauchi State.

INEC Returning Officer, Bala Dalhat of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi, declared the result on Monday in Bununu, headquarters of Tafawa Balewa Local Government of the state.

He said that Mr Gambo polled 54,128 votes to defeat his closest rival, Magaji Kefas of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who polled 52,314 votes.

The returning officer said that Quni Simon of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) got 5,662 votes.

Similarly, INEC has declared Kabiru Alhaji of the APC winner for Alkaleri/Kirfi Federal Constituency election.

Announcing the result, the Returning Officer, Surajudden Abdulsalam said the APC candidate garnered 32,257 votes against 29,713 polled by the PDPs Umar Desu.

While Mohammed Danjuma of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) scored 2,934 votes.

I hereby certify that I am the returning officer for the 2023 Alkaleri/Kirfi Federal Constituency election held on the 25th day of February 2023.

The election was contested and Kabiru Alhaji of APC, having satisfied the requirement of the law, is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected, he said.

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Cornelius Nnaji, a serving member of the House of Representatives representing Enugu East-Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, has lost his bid to return to the Green Chamber.

Mr Nnaji, who is the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was defeated by his Labour Party (LP) rival, Paul Nnamchi, during the 25 February National Assembly election in the constituency.

The returning officer for the constituency, Chinedum Ibezim, announced the result Monday morning at the collation centre of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Enugu East Local Government Headquarters.

Mr Nnamchi, a professor and candidate of the LP, polled a total of 50,308 votes. Mr Nnaji of the PDP came polled 16,239 votes to come a distant second.

The candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the election, Ejike Okolo, scored a total of 1,191 votes to come third.

Nnamchi Paul Sunday of Labour Party (LP), having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected, Mr Ibezim, a professor, declared.

A total of eight candidates contested in the election, according to the returning officer.

This is the second House of Representatives seat that the LP would win in Enugu State which is considered a PDP state because it is controlled by a PDP governor.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the LP won the House of Representatives seat for Nsukka-Igbo-Eze South Federal Constituency in the state.

This newspaper also reported that the state governor and candidate of the PDP for Enugu North District, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, also lost his bid to represent the district at the Senate.

Mr Ugwuanyi was defeated by the LP candidate for the district.

As of the time of this report, PREMIUM TIMES gathered that LP candidates were leading in many federal constituencies and senatorial districts in the state.

The widespread victories of the LP candidates in the state have been attributed to the effect of Peter Obi, the LP presidential candidate, who has been enjoying growing support across the South-east and some parts of the South-south Nigeria.

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The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, has been declared the winner of Wase federal constituency of Pleateau State election held on Saturday.

The Deputy Speaker, who contested on the platform of the All Progressive Congress, was declared winner by the coalition officer of the constituency, Sati Umaru Fwatshak, a professor.

According to the collation officer, who declared the result on Monday, the Deputy Speaker polled a total of 31,499 votes to defeat his closest rival, Ibrahim Bawa Kanji of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who scored 25, 513 votes.

This is the fifth term of the lawmaker in the House of Represenetatives.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Jakduwa Kaikaku, has won the Bade/Jakusko Federal Constituency election in Yobe State.

Declaring the result of the 25 February Presidential and National Assembly elections in Gashua on Monday, the Returning Officer, Ibrahim Sada, a professor at the Federal University, Gashua, Yobe, said Mr Kaikaku scored 31,119 votes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Kaikaku beat Zanna Machina of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who polled 19,955 votes, while Ahmed Abdulrashid of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) came a distant third with 1,822 votes.

He said: Having scored the highest votes and satisfied the requirements of the law, Jakduwa Kaikaku, is hereby declared the winner and returned elected.

It was earlier reported that PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, won the state where All Progressives Congress (APC) is the ruling party.

Many analysts had predicted that the presidential candidate of the APC, Bola Tinubu, would win in the state, but the final results have shown otherwise with the PDP declared the winner by the electoral umpire.

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The House of Representatives Minority Leader, Ndudi Elumelu, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been defeated by the Labour Party (LP) candidate, Ngozi Okolie, in Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency of Delta State.

Mr Elumelu polled a total of 33,456 votes, while the LP candidate polled a total of 53,879 votes to emerge winner as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, Returning Officer, Kenneth Ibe, a professor, on Monday in Asaba.

Mr Elumelu was elected into the lower chamber for the first time in 2007 and would have been heading for his fifth term in June but for his defeat.

In December, angry youth of a community in his constituency, Oko, chased the lawmaker away while on a ward-to-ward campaign for allegedly making empty promises.

The youth prevented Mr Elumelu from addressing them but reluctantly listened to the PDP senatorial candidate for Delta North, Ned Nwoko.

The youth said they were tired of fake promises by politicians.

Since 1999, PDP had been coming here to campaign but after elections, they never remember the Oko community. No road, no electricity among other social amenities, they said.

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China drafts guideline for financial support in house rental

Xinhua) 09:49, February 27, 2023

BEIJING, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- China has drafted a guideline to regulate financial support for the house rental market and started soliciting public opinion.

The guideline was jointly drafted by the People's Bank of China (PBOC), the country's central bank, and the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission.

Based on the experience of financial innovation and the suggestions from institutions and experts, the move aims to improve the financial services for the house rental business, the PBOC said.

The draft focuses on supporting specialized and large-scale enterprises in the house rental sector and providing diversified financial products and services, the central bank added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Several foreign observer groups to Nigeria have lamented the poor participation of women in the ongoing 2023 national elections.

The groups made this known through their various preliminary reports shared with journalists in Abuja on Monday.

The African Union observers led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta observed that even though the Nigerian Constitution guarantees equal rights for men and women in political, social and economic life, the electoral system does not seem to encourage affirmative action for women, youth and People with Disabilities.

The group recommended a multi-stakeholder approach, considering measures for affirmative action in the electoral system for women, people with disabilities and youth. Such measures could include consideration for special seats through a quota system, among others.

While noting the scarcity of female representation in public life, the ECOWAS observer group lead and former president of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bai Koroma called for enhancement of womens participation in the electoral process, including by encouraging champions in the advocacy by He Party Members the enhanced and meaningful roles of She Party Members.

Thabo Mbeki, former South Africa president and head of the commonwealth observers, in his preliminary report, noted there was only one woman presidential candidate out of the total of 18.

He reckoned that this was despite concerted efforts to advance progress in increasing womens political participation as candidates since the 2019 elections, including the tabling of a private members bill in parliament to promote gender equality, we note that this bill was not passed.

The EU through its chief observer, Barry Andrews, noted that this is a continuing decline since 2010. This underscores a lack of affirmative action at odds with the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women and constitutional guarantees for equality.

He decried the challenges faced by female candidates who dared to try including lack of genuine support from their parties, abuse and intimidation, including online, financial constraints and social resistance.

Ahead of these elections, at least two women candidates, including one for governor, faced unsuccessful efforts by their parties to exclude them, Mr Andrews remarked.

It also fingered INEC for complicity; INEC states that over 60 per cent of its staff are women, however, key decision-making posts are overwhelmingly occupied by men. Among 36 RECs only three are women.

Following contentious candidate registration processes there were 18 contestants for the presidential office and over 4200 for 461 national assembly seats. They were selected in party primaries that reportedly lacked transparency and inclusiveness, marked by very chronically low levels of participation of women and youth, Mr Andrews added.

According to International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI), women in Nigeria remain woefully underrepresented at all levels of government and faced both structural and societal barriers to fully and meaningfully participate in the 2023 polls.

Lamenting parties attitude towards their female candidates, it cited the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) withdrew its support for its candidature, the only female presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, just a week before the election, endorsing another male presidential candidate.

Nigerian women in politics

Despite being one of the largest economies in Africa, Nigeria is ranked the lowest in Africa for the number of women in political office, which has continued to decline since 2015.

For 2023, women represented less than 10 per cent of presidential and National Assembly candidates, a visible decline from 12 per cent in 2019.

Of the 1,100 senatorial candidates, only 92 are women representing 8.4 per cent; only 286 of 3,114 house of representatives candidates are women representing 9.2 per cent.

For the state house of assembly, of 10,087 candidates, only 1,050 are women representing only nine per cent of the total number.

Nigeria according to the Inter-Parliamentary Union women in politics report 2022 ranked 184 out of 192 for womens representation in the national parliament.

True to this ranking, there are only 21 women in the ninth national assembly out of 469 members. At the sub-national level, data from Invictus Africa show that there are only 45 women out of 990 house of assembly members; 15 of the 36 states have no female members.

In early 2022, Nigerias women held the mother of all protests urging the National Assembly to sign into law five constitutional reform bills aimed at promoting womens rights and political empowerment; unfortunately, they were all thrown out of the window.

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Abdulaziz Yaradua, younger brother of late President Umaru Yaradua, has been declared winner of the Katsina Central Senatorial District election.

The Returning Officer for the election, Aminu Kankia, declared the result in Katsina on Sunday night.

He said Mr Yaradua of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scored a total of 153,512 votes, against 152,140 votes scored by Aminu Sirajo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mr Kankia added that Gambo Abubakar of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) received 16,005, while Aminu Gide of Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) got 781 votes.

Mr Yaradua is a retired lieutenant colonel in the Nigerian Army.

APC wins Buharis federal constituency

Also, the APC candidate for Daura/Sandamu/MaiAdua federal constituency, Aminu Jamo, has been declared winner of the poll.

Mr Jamo got 55,964 votes to defeat his closest rival, Abdullahi Aliyu, of the PDP, who got 33,398 votes.

Alkasim Sanusi of NNPP got 2,151 votes.

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Sadiq Abdullahi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has won the Sabon Gari Federal Constituency election in Kaduna state with 33,616 votes.

The INEC Returning Officer, Hashim Suleman of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, announced the result in Zaria on Monday.

Mr Suleiman declared Mr Abdullahi the winner of the election having defeated his closest contender, the incumbent member representing the area, Garba-Datti Mohammed of the All Progressive Congress who scored 31,737 votes.

Garba-Datti Mohammed, who currently represents the constituency in the National Assembly for the fourth term, was seeking re-election.

Sadiq Abdullahi, having satisfied the requirements, is hereby declared winner and returned elected, the returning officer said.

He said the constituency had 217,941 registered voters.

He said that out of the 217,941 registered voters, 79,580 voters were accredited for the election, while 76,654 valid votes were cast.

(NAN)

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The former Governor of Ebonyi State, Sam Egwu, has lost his bid to return to the Senate for a third term.

Mr Egwu of the Peoples Democratic Party represents Ebonyi North Senatorial District in the Senate. The district, including elections for the House of Representatives seat there, has now been won by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mr Egwu lost to a former state chairman of the PDP who later joined APC, Peter Nwebonyi, who was declared the winner by INEC.

Mr Nwebonyi of the APC garnered a total of 65,863 votes. His closest opponent, Ejiofor Chukwu of the Labour Party scored 42,283 votes to emerge second while Mr Egwu came a distant third with 26,569 votes.

The report was announced by the INEC Returning Officer for Ebonyi North Senatorial Zone, Nwogo Obasi, at the INEC office in Abakaliki Local Government Area on Sunday night.

Also, a former state chairman of the APC, Nwachukwu Eze, defeated his Labour Party and PDP opponents to win the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency seat. He garnered 22794 votes to beat his closest challenger, Ndubuisi Agbo of the Labour Party who polled 14,168 votes

The candidate of the PDP, Victor Aleke, garnered 11,611 votes to place third in the election.

Reacting, Mr Eze commended his constituents for giving him their mandate to represent them.

He thanked President Buhari for keeping to his promise to reform the electoral system to make it free and fair.

The election has shown that there is future for Nigeria. This election in my constituency has been adjudged the most peaceful and fair since return of democracy, he said.

He promised to keep to the promises he made during the campaign to the people.

Mr Eze said he will introduce citizen engagement whereby communities and towns in his constituency will decide the projects they need.

This will help us to identify the needs of the people so that we can cite appropriate projects that will touch the peoples lives, he said.

PREMIUM TIMES reports that although as a lawmaker, Mr Eze would not have executive powers to execute projects, lawmakers often propose constituency projects which are inserted in Nigerias annual budgets.

That way we wont go and cite projects the people do not need. If the people want school, we wont go and build hospital, he said.

The House of Representatives member-elect, Mr Eze, also promised to empower the youth and women in the constituency and by so doing reduce incidences of communal conflict, violence and criminality in the area.

He also commended his opponents for putting up a good fight during the election adding that they are all winners

Mr Eze, however, called on them to support him to enable him to give the people the best representation.

Also, the APC candidate for Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency, Emmanuel Uguru, has been declared the winner of the election for the constituency.

Mr Uguru, a former Chairman of Abakaliki local government, defeated Emmanuel Ezeh of the Labour Party to emerge victorious.

The Returning Officer for the election, Amos Nworie, announced that Mr Uguru scored a total of 41,771 votes.

He said that Mr Ezeh scored 30,877 votes to take the second position.

Mr Nworie, a professor, declared that Mr Uguru having scored the highest number of votes is the winner of the Abakaliki/Izzi Federal Constituency election.

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The ECOWAS Election Observation Mission (EOM), on Monday, urged candidates to respect the outcome of the just concluded elections.

We urge the candidates in the presidential election to respect the outcome of the election as will be announced by INEC, head of the mission and former Sierra Leonean President, Ernest Bai Koroma, said.

Some of the presidential candidates through their supporters and parties have raised various concerns about the 25 February presidential election.

There are four front-runners in the election. They are Peter Obi of the Labour Party, Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, and Rabiu Kwakwanso of the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP).

He advised aggrieved parties to resort, if the need arises, to legal channels to resolve any electoral dispute.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Mr Koroma, in his preliminary report, asked political parties to encourage their members and followers to desist from the use of inflammatory utterances.

He also urged them to refrain from acts likely to incite violence in the post-electoral phase.

Describing Nigeria as the powerhouse of the West African region, he said Nigerian elections are important for the entire ECOWAS region.

He said, in line with ECOWAS preventive diplomacy mandate, the Mission would intensify its post-electoral engagement with the candidates, the parties, INEC, and the critical political stakeholders, to facilitate the legal and peaceful resolution of any emerging disputes from the polls.

Nigeria held its seventh democratic National election since 1999 on 25 February.

Results are still being collated in different parts of the country, although elections were cancelled in some parts of the country as a result of violence, and technical issues, amongst others.

While the collation of results is ongoing, both political parties and their supporters have called out suspected foul plays including manipulation of results.

According to the PREMIUM TIMES election results dashboard the ruling All Progressive Congress is in an early lead as results continue to trickle in.

As of the time of filing this report, three states have announced their results at the National Collation Centre in Abuja.

The ECOWAS EOM deployed 250 election observers to Nigeria to support and monitor the entire electoral process.

The Observers are drawn from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the ECOWAS Member States, Electoral Commissions, Ambassadors accredited to ECOWAS, the ECOWAS Council of the Wise, the ECOWAS Parliament, the ECOWAS Community Court of justice, Civil Society Organisations, the media and election experts from the region.

The mission was deployed to support the consolidation of democratic processes in Nigeria.

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Police in Rivers State, south-south Nigeria, said they have arrested three of their personnel for alleged electoral malpractice in the state.

The police spokesperson in Rivers, Grace Iringe-Koko, who disclosed this in a statement on Monday, said the arrest followed a viral video of the alleged malpractice.

There have been reports of police officers and other security officials colluding with politicians in Rivers to manipulate the polls in the state.

Rivers State was trending on Twitter on Sunday because of the alleged suppression of voters in the oil-rich state.

In a clip circulating on Twitter, a police pickup truck is seen driving away from a supposed polling unit, with ballot papers littered on the ground.

Police don come snatched our ballot box, a male voice is heard saying in the videos background.

Apart from arresting the officers, the police said they have impounded the truck which has an inscription RRT 050 on its body.

Ms Iringe-Koko, a superintendent of police, said the police have the commitment to protect the rule of law, and that the officers would be sanctioned if found culpable.

Investigation still ongoing, the outcome will be made known publicly, she said in the statement while appealing to residents in Rivers State to remain calm and peaceful.

PREMIUM TIMES published a similar video where a police officer was seen tearing thumb-printed ballots.

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The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has clinched all three Katsina State senatorial seats in the Nigerian Senate.

This is despite the party losing the majority of votes cast in the presidential election to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the presidential election in the state.

PREMIUM TIMES reported the PDP got 489,045 ahead of APC with 482,283 in the presidential election result announced Monday morning.

But all three senatorial seats were cleared by the APC. In the central zone, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz Yaradua, a junior brother to the late president, Umaru Yaradua, was declared the winner having scored 153,512. He defeated his main rival, Aminu Sirajo of the PDP, who got 152,140.

Mr Yaradua, who is a retired military colonel, was declared the winner by the senatorial returning officer in the district, Aminu Kankia.

In the northern zone (Daura zone), the incumbent senator, Ahmed Babba-Kaita of the PDP, lost to Nasir Zangon-Daura of the APC.

Mr Zangon-Daura, a current member of the House of Representatives, got 174,062 while Mr Babba-Kaita polled 163,586, according to the returning officer, Umar Sanda, a professor.

In the southern zone, APCs Muntari Dandutse, who is also an incumbent House of Representatives member, polled 203,245 votes ahead of his main rival, Shehu Garba of the PDP who got 151,519.

The result was declared by the senatorial zone returning officer, Iliyasu Yusuf-Gobir, a professor, in Funtua local government area Monday morning.

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The Director of Special Media Projects of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council, Femi Fani-Kayode, has said the party will defend its votes if declared winner of the 2023 presidential election.

Mr Fani-Kayode, speaking during a press briefing by the APC presidential campaign council, on Monday, said he is confident his party will win the election and there is no cause for alarm.

He said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigerias major opposition party, is trying to heat the polity, provoke, and intimidate APC voters and supporters.

In the words of Dino today like Shakespeare is a tale told by an idiot full of shout and fury signifying absolutely nothing and we need to be careful at this stage, we are confident of victory, he said.

His statement is in reaction to concerns raised by Dino Melaye, an agent of PDP at the National Collation Centre for the presidential election in Abuja, that the failure of INEC to promptly upload online results from polling units makes the results questionable.

Mr Melaye, who spoke with anger at the national collation centre broadcast live on national televisions, said the PDP will contest the authenticity of the INEC results.

Nigerias electoral commission, INEC, had, on Sunday, admitted the slow uploading of polling unit results on its result viewing portal (IRev). The commission linked the glitches to technical issues.

It is indeed not unusual for glitches to occur and be corrected in such situations, INEC said in a statement.

It, however, assures Nigerians that the challenges are not due to any intrusion or sabotage of its system and that the IReV remains well-secured.

Defending our votes

Speaking at the press conference aired live on Arise Television on Monday, Mr Fani-Kayode said the party will protect and defend its mandate no matter the beating and intimidation of APC supporters.

No matter what Pastor Paul Enenche, Dino Melaye, Dele Momodu and all the rest of them particularly the Obidients who have intimidated and threatened our voters, we will defend our votes, he said.

The minute the result is announced, we will not be intimidated, we will defend our votes, we will protect this mandate and those that have the idea of the June 12 phenomenal by creating crisis because they didnt win, they should perish the thought.

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The Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Lagos State, Olusegun Agbaje, has said the outcome of Saturdays election in the state is a reflection of the commissions neutrality.

Mr Agbaje spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the results of the Presidential and National Assembly Elections in the state which were announced on Monday.

There had earlier been calls for the removal of Mr Agbaje by some leaders of the Labour Party (LP), which recorded the highest number of votes declared for the presidential election in the state.

Mr Agbaje told NAN in Lagos on Monday that the commission does not work for any political party and that no commissioner in INEC influences any election.

Even, the Chairman of the commission (Prof. Mahmood Yakubu) cannot do that, he said.

Let us collaborate. Fake news, misinformation and disinformation will not help this country.

We remain undisturbed and cannot be distracted. Some people think REC can change figures. Figures cannot be changed with BVAS. Things have changed. All of us can see from the results, he added.

Agbaje urged stakeholders to learn to collaborate more with INEC rather than resorting to social media peddling falsehood.

He commended all stakeholders who he noted had contributed to the success of the elections and collation of results, even as he specifically applauded the collation officers, security agencies, domestic and foreign observers, media and staff of the commission.

On PDPs allegation

On the allegation of manipulation levelled against the election process by the PDP State Collation Agent, Tunji Shelle, Agbaje disagreed with him.

If the election was not free and fair and all the party agents signed the results at the polling units, registration level and local government level, I believe he (PDP) is not being sincere, he said.

On INECs preparations for the 11 March Governorship and House of Assembly elections in the state, Mr Agbaje said the space of days in-between the two elections gave the opportunity to sit down and address challenges.

APC reacts

Meanwhile, the APC State Collation Agent, Fouad Oki, while reacting to the outcome of the Presidential Election in the state, said democracy is at work. We are democrats.

He, however, called for a review of the nations electoral process, especially in the deployment of technology to make its operation seamless.

When you deploy technology, you must expect some hiccups and I think there were several hiccups that were created by BVAS but they are still part of the learning process, he said.

Mr Oki said that the effect of last two weeks government policies had a causative effect on the voters turnout and the eventual outcome of the elections.

I am sure the next two weeks will be quite different, he said.

The Presidential and NASS elections were held simultaneously across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory on Saturday.

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The 2023 presidential election has further widened the division in the Yoruba movie industry, as some of its key players are presently at loggerheads.

The build-up to the highly anticipated election saw Nigerian entertainers declaring support for different candidates, mainly along ethnic lines.

The support of actors was primarily divided between three candidates: Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party.

The likes of Kate Henshaw, Chioma Akpotha, Chidi Mokeme and others stood firmly by Mr Obi.

Others like Seyi Law, Toyin Abraham and Brymo have shown unwavering support for Mr Tinubu, while Frodd BBNaija firmly roots for Atiku.

As Nigerians came together to cast their votes for their preferred candidate on Saturday, the final results are yet to be declared.

Squabbles

With the results yet to be announced, several female actors have been going at each other, either covertly or openly, for what most say is political money.

Most actors, especially those of Yoruba extraction, consider the Lagos State Parks Management Committee Chairman, Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, as a benefactor.

As a result, they regard those working against MC Oluomo, one of Mr Tinubus frontline supporters, as betrayers.

From observation, actresses like Mary Igwe and Lizzygold have been against Eniola Badmus.

Adunni Ade is also at loggerheads with Bukky Adekogbe, while Iyabo Ojo and Nkechi Blessing have been having it hot with Dayo Amusa.

Most of the actors in Mr Tinubus camp also accuse those in Mr Obis camp of selling out despite all the former Lagos State Governor has done for them individually and as an industry.

Fake result saga

As the election results began to trickle in from various polling units, actress Iyabo Ojo posted and celebrated figures showing that the LP candidate was pooling numbers.

Meanwhile, actor Adams Kehinde, aka Lege, accused her of posting fake results online. Lege urged his followers to wait for INECs result.

I cant keep quiet again. As a citizen of Nigeria, please, let INEC have the final say. Madam Iyabo Ojo, you are the one Im talking to. You are posting fake results to convince people in Nigeria. Please, all Nigerians, Iyabo Ojo is posting fake results, he said in a video.

Also, movie lovers quickly pointed out that Ms Ojo has been a direct beneficiary of Mr Tinubus kindness.

Godfather, not the president

After receiving flak for allegedly posting fake election results and turning her back on the APC presidential candidate after he rendered some assistance to herself and her family, Ms Ojo, 45, made a video where she tried to justify her refusal to support Tinubus candidacy.

She said she regards the APC stalwart as a kingmaker and a godfather, not a president.

She said, I believe that he is an excellent, brilliant person, but I believe that he is old and his health would not allow him to see to the problems of Nigeria. Nigerias problem is significant, and man needs to be resting right now, sitting and giving orders to those he will choose to go and lead us.

I see him as a kingmaker, a godfather, but I do not see him as my president. Whether he wins or not, I did not support Buhari.

Campaign of pittances

Another actress, Adunni Ade, has come for her industry colleague, who she said allegedly worked for APC politicians over two months only to be paid a paltry sum of N90,000.

Although she refused to mention the individuals name, the light-skinned actress said she is not bothered about who the fellow is campaigning for, but the lack of empathy bothers her.

Addressing her colleagues, she said, A lot of you left your homes, sat in some place for two months and were paid peanuts literally. You guys fought yourselves; they paid you guys peanuts. I have a screenshot of someone who got N90,000 after wasting his damn life for two months campaigning for someone.

You were under the sun, receiving abuses, curses on top of your head. This is making up for my own life and my childrens future. As I said before, you can vote for whoever you want; I donAsare, but always let your guilty conscience be the; Ie poking you.

However, actress Bukky Adekogbe Raji, popularly known as Aminatu Papapa, took Ms Ades post personally and made a video addressing her using denigrating words.

Speaking in Yoruba language, Aminatu Papapa noted that she only came through for a friend, MC Oluomo, who was in need then. Another actress, Ronke Oshodi Oke, liked the post.

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The Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State have rejected the results of the National Assembly elections announced in the state.

They alleged that officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) connived with some candidates of the All Progressive Congress(APC) to mutilate results and re-write the results.

According to them, INEC officials allocated phantom results to APC candidates, Governor David Umahi(Ebonyi South), Chinedu Ogah(Ikwo/Ishielu), Onyekachi Nwebonyi( Ebonyi North) Emmanuel Uguru(Abakaliki/Izizi) and Eze Nwachukwu(Ebonyi/Ohaukwu).

They further alleged that the same mutilation and re-writing of results to favour APC was ongoing in the Ebonyi Central Senatorial election and that of Ezza North/Ishielu whose results have not yet been announced.

They further alleged massive irregularities and violence before, during and after the elections which led to elections not taking place or being scuttled midway in about 15 polling units in many wards in the State, especially in Ebonyi South.

They also claimed that INEC staff jettisoned the electronic accreditation in some places and used manual accreditation which has been outlawed by the electoral act.

The candidates of the two parties stormed the INEC office with hundreds of their supporters to protest the results which they alleged were concocted to favour the APC.

The candidates who stormed the INEC office include Sam Egwu, (PDP, Ebonyi North), Linus Okorie(LP, Ebonyi South), Anselm Anigwe(LP, Ebonyi North) and Ama Nnachi(PDP, Ebonyi South).

Others are Lazarus Ogbe(PDP, Ebonyi Central), Emmanuel Eze(LP, Abakaliki/Izzi), Chibueze Agbo(LP, Ebonyi/Ohaukwu), Emmanuel Nwoke(PDP, Ezaa North/Isheilu) and Vitalis Nwanne(Ezza South/Ikwo).

They called for the cancellation of the entire results of the constituencies in question by INEC and re-collation of the results using the results already uploaded on the INEC portal through the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System(BVAS) machine.

Ex-governor speaks

Sam Egwu, a serving senator and former governor of Ebonyi State, while addressing journalists, described the entire election in the State as a sham.

He said: What is happening in Ebonyi is a sham, in Ebonyi the use of BVAs is not adhered to. People are voting as if we are still in the period were you just collect a sheet of paper and start writing and then you give it to INEC to record. How can that be?

You are still collating results and you go on to announce it when the collation is not completed

Even the REC has ordered that it should stop to show you the level of impunity. Results are being manipulated, a lot of money is passing hand and their instruction is to give us this number upload it and then we go to court.

INEC has assured us that the results would be verified. The electoral act says that we must vote by the use of BVAs but they have thrown away the BVAs.

Many polling boots didnt use the BVAS they just collected figures, it is an allocation that we are seeing in Ebonyi state

This is a state we know the parties in power, where people know their choice but their choice has been truncated because of selfish politicians.

Our prayer here is simply, they should cancel whatever result and depend on the BVAS. The results generated by the BVAS should be used, he said.

Linus Okorie alleged that over 15 polling units with a combined voter strength of over 15,000 were disenfranchised.

According to him, thugs were unleashed on the polling units to not only attack but also burn down the election materials.

He expressed surprise that the Commission went ahead to announce the result in Ebonyi South when the number of registered voters is higher than the margin of votes between the acclaimed winner(Umahi) and himself who came second.

He, therefore, called for the cancellation of the results and the conduct of fresh elections in the affected polling units and wards before a final result will be announced.

Ndubisi Chibueze-Agbo, the LP candidate for Ebonyi/Ohaukwu, warned that INEC is enabling violent revolution by denying the people democratic revolution.

Lazarus Ogbe, candidate of PDP for Ebonyi Central called on INEC to restart the result collation in Ikwo local government.

He alleged that gross manipulation is still going on by INEC officials in connivance with APC officials in the area.

He alleged that the same thing is going on in Ezza North/Ishielu Federal Constituency to deny PDP candidate, Emmanuel Nwite victory.

The result of the two constituencies has not been announced by INEC. Ends

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The Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Mahmood Yakubu, has dismissed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)s claim of over-voting in Ekiti State during Saturdays presidential election.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) had won the election with PDP coming behind a distant second.

The Ekiti States results were the first to be officially called at the National Collation Centre in Abuja on Sunday.

On Monday, PDPs agent, Dino Melaye, called for the cancellation of the results for overvoting that allegedly marred the election in the state.

Mr Melaye had earlier insisted that there were about 800 excess votes cast in Ekiti state.

He and another agent of the party, Emeka Iheodia, walked out of the National Collation Centre after the INEC chair refused to grant their request.

Mr Yakubu, later reacting to the allegation, said there was no overvoting in Ekiti State.

He also said there was no over-voting in Ekiti State as the party agents had appended their signatures in agreement to the result sheets.

He said the figure presented by the PDP agent did not emanate from the commission.

READ ALSO:

He said the figures in the commissions possession revealed 315,058 total accredited votes and 308,171 Valid votes. He added that the rejected votes were 6,301.

He asked the political parties to approach the commission for redress if they have a result sheet that showed a different figure.

If theres any figure different from what I have presentedplease discontentment that figure, it does not emanate from the commission, he said.

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The United States government has said from March 1, validity period for visitors visas for Nigerians wishing to travel temporarily to the U.S for business or tourism would be increased from 24 to 60 months.

The U.S Embassy in Abuja disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

The Embassy stated that the visa validity extension would allow Nigerians use the visa for 60 months to make short trips to the United States for tourism or business purposes before having to renew it.

Effective March 1, 2023, the U.S. Mission will increase visitor visa validity from 24 months to 60 months for Nigerians who want to enter the United States temporarily for business and/or tourism.

The visa validity extension allows Nigerians to use the visa for 60 months to make short trips to the United States for tourism or business purposes before having to renew their visa.

The visa application fee, currently USD160, will not increase as a result of the increased visa validity, the statement read in part.

Increasing visa validity is one of several initiatives taken by the United States to reduce visa appointment wait times in Nigeria, the embassy said.

The U.S. Mission continues to offer No-Interview Visa Renewals to those who meet the eligibility criteria. Appointments for No-Interview Visa Renewals are readily available, the embassy added.

On the No-Interview Visa Renewal policy the embassy stated that: You may be eligible for a visa renewal without an interview if your application is for a B1/B2, F, M, J (academic only), H, L, or C1/D (combined only) visa, and you meet each of the following criteria:

You are physically present in Nigeria, your previous visa was issued in Nigeria, your previous visa is in the same classification as your current application, your previous visa was a full-validity, multiple-entry visa.

Your previous visa expired within the last 48 months or will expire in the next 3 months from the date of application.

You have all your passports covering the entire period since receiving the previous visa and the passport with the most recent visa.

You have never been arrested or convicted of any crime or offence in the United States, even if you later received a waiver or pardon.

You have never worked without authorisation or remained beyond your permitted time in the United States.

Please see our website at https://ng.usembassy.gov/visas/nonimmigrant-visas/ for further information.

If you are qualified based on the above criteria, visit https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ng to start your application.

Please note that processing times for the programme are expected to be up to two months and you will not be able to retrieve your passport during that time.

Each applicant must individually meet the criteria; minors can apply without an interview only if they meet the eligibility criteria on their own, the Embassy further stated.

The Embassy also explained that for applicants on a life-or-death emergency, they may request an expedited, in-person interview.

It however added that to accommodate No-Interview Visa Renewals, appointments will be very limited.

The embassy also noted that business travel, conferences, weddings, and graduations are not considered emergencies.

If you have an emergency and need to travel immediately, please follow the guidance provided at https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ng or +234-1-227-8955 to request an emergency appointment.

Third parties unaffiliated with U.S. Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos may seek to take advantage of various visa services to target visa applicants with fraudulent offers or claims.

Applicants should fill out their own forms and make their appointments themselves via the official websites.

As future opportunities for Interview Waiver appointments become available, they will be communicated via our website.

Remember to rely on information only from genuine sources: https://travel.state.gov, https://ng.usembassy.gov/visas/, and https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ng.

Avoid becoming the victim of a scam, the Embassy advised.

(NAN)

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Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past governor of Ekiti State and President of the Forum of Regions of Africa (FORAF), has urged Nigerians to exercise utmost restraint and patience in the aftermath of the Presidential election.

In a statement issued on his behalf by Ahmad Sajoh, the head of the Fayemi Media Office in Abuja, the former governor, appealed to Nigerians not to make inflammatory comments or take actions that may lead to the breakdown of the law.

Excerpts of the statement from Dr Fayemi:

The election is not war. There are about 90 million registered voters and it is impossible for all of them to have uniformity of electoral choices. Diversity and plurality of beliefs, ideas, and attitudes are the bedrock of representative democracy. An election will probably not be necessary if we all have the same choices.

I, therefore, urge all Nigerians to be calm and not to make inflammatory statements or take actions that may lead to the breakdown of law and order. We should allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials to tally and announce the results.

I note that INEC had challenges relating to the digitalization of the electoral process but the Commission had promised to fix this. We should give INEC benefit of the doubt, and await the completion of the process and the announcement of the final outcome.

I appeal to political leaders and actors to exercise restraint at this point and not to incite or encourage their followers to take the laws into their hands. Elections are a process and they dont necessarily end with the announcement of results on election day.

Aggrieved persons can still approach the courts to seek redress if they believe they have been cheated or robbed of electoral mandates.

While elections will come and go, our country will remain. Therefore, we should not consider this particular election as the end of electoral opportunities for the country. There will be life after this election and we must all work together, regardless of the outcome, to make Nigeria great.

Signed

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh,

The Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

February 27, 2023.

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The candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has won the presidential election conducted in Plateau State.

The INEC Collation Officer in the state, Shehu Abdulrahman, announced that the LP candidate scored the highest votes cast in the state to defeat his closest rivals, Bola Tinubu of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic party ( PDP).

According to the collation officer, the LP candidate scored 466,272 votes, PDP candidate scored 243,808 votes while the APC candidate scored 307,195 votes.

Plateau thus joins Nasarawa as two states in Northern Nigeria that Peter Obi has won, so far, in the presidential election.

The results of the various LGAs are as follows:

WASE

APC  28675

PDP  23049

LP  6080

NNPP  109

Mikang LGA

APC  5,044

PDP  7,211

LP  7,201

Barkin Ladi LGA

LP  32,489

APC  12,514

PDP -9,073

Riyom

APC  6,936

PDP  8,181

LP  15,171

Jos East

APC  6,348

PDP  5,144

LP  6,386

5. Langtang south

APC  7,478

PDP  12,467

LP  6,045

6. Langtang North

APC  8,706

PDP  17,751

LP  21,590

7. Bokkos LGA

APC  10,858

PDP  8,569

LP  32,581

8. Mangu LGA

APC  22,691

PDP  27,013

LP  39,387

Bassa

APC- 16,007

PDP  11306

LP  28,226

Kanke

APC  13,438

PDP  10538

LB  13538

JOS south

APC  15985

PDP  13,803

LP  112874

Pankshin

APC 11019

PDP 12225

LP  25450

Kanam

APC  41186

PDP  24843

LP  4769

Shendam

APC- 17132

PDP  8444

LP  25825

Quaan pan

APC 16522

PDP 20,963

LP 18, 641

Jos North

APC 65656

PDP 22528

LP  70357

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared the Yobe South Senatorial District election inconclusive.

The Returning Officer for the election, Shettima Saidu, stated this at the collation centre at Federal College of Education(Technical) Potiskum, on Monday.

The election was held on Saturday.

Mr Saidu, a professor, said the election was marred with over voting in one polling unit and consequently cancelled.

According to him, the cancellation of votes at Polling Unit 003 Manawaci, in Fika Local Government Area, happened when the total votes cast exceeded the total number of people accredited.

A fresh election is expected to be conducted in the area, he said.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that there has been tension in Potiskum town over the delay in the announcement of the result as some supporters of one of the candidates staged a protest earlier at INEC office in the area alleging foul play.

There were reports that some security personnel took proactive measure by condoning off the house of the incumbent senator, Mohammed Bomoi, to avert any attack ahead of the announcement of the result.

The State Police Commissioner, Haruna Garba, did not answer calls put to him by this newspaper to comment on the matter.

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The International Republican Institute (IRI) and the National Democratic Institute (NDI) on Monday said Nigerias 2023 presidential election fell short of Nigerian citizens legitimate and reasonable expectations.

The duo in a joint preliminary report highlighted failures of logistics, challenges with voter registration and voter card distribution, inadequate communication by INEC, lack of transparency in the publication of election data, and unchecked political violence before and during the elections as reasons for their conclusion.

The report noted that these shortfalls overshadowed incremental administrative gains achieved in the pre-election period, and impeded a substantial number of citizens from participating in voting.

NDI-IRI also credited the ongoing cash crunch and fuel crisis with imposing excessive burdens on voters and election officials while marginalized groups, especially women, continued to face barriers to seeking and obtaining political office.

It added that the logistical and electoral insecurity challenges were foreseeable and avoidable but became a missed opportunity when INEC failed to address them. Logistical challenges led to the delay in commencement of voting in most parts of the country, it said.

Moreover, voters trust in the process has been considerably shaken by INECs lack of transparency about the cause and extent of election day challenges, it added.

It commended Nigerians who in spite of these challenges once again demonstrated their commitment to the democratic process, displayed extraordinary resilience and resolve to have their voices heard through the ballot, often waiting for several hours due to logistical shortcomings.

The NDI-IRI also lamented the violation of the electoral act on guidelines for setting up polling units.

Recommendations

As part of its report, it recommended that INEC engage in proactive, regular and transparent communications and outreach to the Nigerian public and relevant stakeholders related to electoral developments, electoral delays, cancellations, etc, and make such information immediately available on its website.

INEC should consider redesigning the voting cubicle to guarantee ballot secrecy and enhance accessibility to PWDs. Also, lawmakers and INEC should work together to ensure contingency funding that can inoculate against economic and other unanticipated crises.

Other recommendations include for INEC to distribute voters more equitably among polling units and consider adjusting the number of poll workers assigned to each polling unit based on registered voters to reduce the time spent waiting in queues and completing ballot sorting and counting processes.

INEC and civil society should expand civic and voter education efforts well in advance of election day to improve the application of procedures and citizens understanding of the electoral process.

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Abuja, February 27, 2023  At least 14 journalists and media workers were detained, harassed, or attacked while covering Nigerias presidential and federal elections, including private news website WikkiTimes owner Haruna Mohammed Salisu, who remains in police custody without charge, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Monday.

Police detained Salisu on February 25 in Duguri town, southeastern Bauchi state, shortly after he and other reporters had met with the state governor, according to WikkiTimes editor Yakubu Mohammed, who spoke to CPJ, and a local coalition of press freedom groups. Police said they took Salisu into custody to protect him after supporters of the governor attacked him as he interviewed local women protesting, but then refused to release him, according to Mohammed, who visited him after he was transferred to police headquarters in Bauchi, the state capital. The local PRNigeria news site reported that police had received a formal complaint that the journalist was inciting the electorate. Salisu remained in detention as of Monday evening.

Private citizens, political groups, or security forces threatened, attacked, or seized at least 13 other journalists and media workers during the elections, according to CPJ interviews.

Nigerian authorities should immediately and unconditionally release journalist Haruna Mohammed Salisu, and bring to account all those responsible for intimidating and attacking at least 13 other journalists and media workers, said Angela Quintal, CPJs Africa program coordinator, from New York. Press freedom is an integral component of Nigerian democracy, and the media should be able to cover national polls without fear of reprisals.

CPJ spoke to reporters involved in each of the following incidents on February 25:

A group of men beat Dayo Aiyetan, executive director of the privately owned nonprofit International Centre for Investigative Reporting, tore his clothes, and stole his phone and belongings after he filmed them disrupting the voting at a polling site in Abuja, Nigerias capital. Aiyetan said one man tried to stab him, and he reported the attack to local police. Some of his belongings were returned, including his phone with content deleted.

one man tried to stab him, and he reported the attack to local police. Some of his belongings were returned, including his phone with content deleted. Youths in Ibadan, Oyo state, attacked a vehicle from the state-owned News Agency Nigeria for covering the elections, one of the crew told CPJ. Yinka Bode-Are, a camera operator, was traveling with a reporter and driver when the vehicle was set upon with sticks and dented.

a vehicle from the state-owned News Agency Nigeria for covering the elections, one of the crew told CPJ. Yinka Bode-Are, a camera operator, was traveling with a reporter and driver when the vehicle was set upon with sticks and dented. Security forces questioned Adesola Ikulajolu , a reporter with the local nonprofit Center for Journalism Innovation and Development, about his work and deleted image folders from his phone as he moved between polling places in Lagos. Ikulajolu said he believed they were from the Department of State Services because of their equipment and black clothing. DSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya told CPJ he was not aware of the incident and that black clothing did not prove a DSS affiliation.

, a reporter with the local nonprofit Center for Journalism Innovation and Development, about his work and deleted image folders from his phone as he moved between polling places in Lagos. said he believed they were from the Department of State Services because of their equipment and black clothing. DSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya told CPJ he was not aware of the incident and that black clothing did not prove a DSS affiliation. In Agbor town, Delta state, a supporter of the Peoples Democratic Party, one of Nigerias main political parties, punched Bolanle Olabimtan , a reporter with the private news website TheCable, and knocked her over , while another seized her phone and deleted photos and video before returning it.

, a reporter with the private news website TheCable, and , while another seized her phone and deleted photos and video before returning it. Police detained and threatened to shoot Gbenga Oloniniran, a reporter with the privately owned Punch newspaper , in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, then drove him across town and deleted photos from his phone before releasing him. Local media advocacy groups condemned the incident. Police officers also deleted photos from his phone in a separate incident after he photographed them at a polling site, he told CPJ. CPJs calls to Rivers state police spokesperson Grace Woyengikuro Iringe-Koko went unanswered.

, in Port Harcourt, Rivers state, then drove him across town and deleted photos from his phone before releasing him. Local media condemned the incident. Police officers also deleted photos from his phone in a separate incident after he photographed them at a polling site, he told CPJ. CPJs calls to Rivers state police spokesperson Grace Woyengikuro Iringe-Koko went unanswered. A group of men stopped Ajayi Adebola , a reporter with the private news website Peoples Gazette, at a polling site in Lagos, and deleted content from her phone. Some wore vests representing the All Progressives Congress, another major party, she told CPJ. APC spokesperson Felix Morka told CPJ that he would investigate the incident and that the party did not want its supporters to target journalists.

, a reporter with the private news website Peoples Gazette, at a polling site in Lagos, and from her phone. Some wore vests representing the All Progressives Congress, another major party, she told CPJ. APC spokesperson Felix Morka told CPJ that he would investigate the incident and that the party did not want its supporters to target journalists. PDP supporters threatened or assaulted five reporters in three separate incidents in Sagbama, a council area in Bayelsa state: Akam James, a reporter with the privately-owned Daily Post newspaper was slapped and beaten; Princewill Sede and Jeany Metta, publisher and managing editor of the private Upfront News magazine, were hit in the face and had their camera smashed; and Joe Kunde and Miebi Bina, a reporter and camera operator for the private news broadcaster TVC, were intimidated and driven from the area.

CPJ called Bauchi police spokesperson Ahmed Mohammed Wakil for comment regarding Salisus detention and sent questions via messaging app, which were marked as read, but received no response. Calls to Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed and one of his aides, Muktar Gidado, went unanswered.

CPJs calls to national police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi rang unanswered.

PDP presidential campaign council spokesperson Kola Ologbondiyan told CPJ that reports of incidents involving their supporters were falsehood and asked to review details, but did not immediately comment on those that CPJ provided to him. Reached by phone, PDP spokesperson Debo Ologunagba asked for a call back, but did not answer the call.

Days before the polls, journalists also faced attack or were denied access to cover election preparations, CPJ has reported.

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The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has won eight out of eleven federal constituencies in Jigawa State.

It, however, lost the remaining three constituencies to opposition parties.

The APC lost Birnin Kudu and Buji federal constituencies seats to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

INEC Returning Officer, Ahmad Kutama, who announced the results in Dutse, the state capital, said the PDP candidate, Adamu Yakubu, polled 39,998 votes to emerge victorious in the constituency.

Mr Yakubu defeated the APC candidate Magaji Dau, who scored 36,735.

Also, the APC candidate for Gwaram federal constituency, Isah Idris, lost to incumbent member, Yusuf Galambi, of the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP) who got 27,831 votes against his 19,252.

The candidate of the People Democratic Party (PDP) Awwal Muhammad, came third in the election with 17,779 votes.

INEC also declared Dahiru Make of the PDP winner of Saturdays election for the Dutse, Kiyawa federal constituency seat.

He scored 47,836 to defeat the incumbent APC member, Abdullahi Kyamba, who got 36,718 votes.

At the Hadejia, Auyo and Kafin-Hausa federal constituency, Ibrahim Usman of APC polled 56,891 votes to defeat his main challenger Suleiman Sidi, of the PDP, who got 40,628 votes.

For Kazaure/Roni/Gwiwa and Yankwashi Federal Constituency, Muktar Muhammad of the APC won the election with 49,301 votes, against his rival from the PDP, Hamza Ahmed, who got 29,655 votes.

In Kirikasamma/Birniwa and Guri Federal Constituency, Abubakar Fulata, of the APC won with 44,692 votes against his challenger from the PDP Abba Daguro, who scored 30,654

In the Ringim/Taura Federal Constituency, Saadatu Wada, of the APC scored 38,612 against his opponent from the PDP

Gambo Gujungu got 24,518.APC

In the Jahun Miga Federal Constituency result, Yusuf Saidu of the APC won with 39,746 votes to defeat Uba Magaji of the PDP who scored 35,081

In Babura /Garki Federal Constituency, Isa Dogon-Yaro of APC, emerged winner with 37,443 votes to defeat Haruna Sani of the PDP who got 24,622.

In Malammadori/Kaugama Federal Constituency, the APC candidate got 36,468 votes to defeat the PDP candidate, Musbahu Rabiu who got 27,691 votes

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Abdul Ningi of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has won the Bauchi Central Senatorial seat for the second time.

Ningi was a Deputy Majority Leader of the Senate, representing the Bauchi Central zone between 2011 and 2015.

The Returning Officer, Ibrahim Danjuma announced the result on Monday at Darazo Collation Centre in Darazo Local Government Area of the state.

He said that Ningi polled 104,878 votes to defeat his closest rival, Uba Ahmad-Nana of the APC, who got 84,621

While Isah Hamma Misau of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) scored 17,995 votes.

READ ALSO: APC clinches Zaria Federal Constituency in Kaduna

Having been satisfied with the result and fulfilling the requirement of the law, Abdul Ningi of the PDP was declared the winner and returned elected as the senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he said.

Bauchi Central Senatorial District comprises Danbam, Darazo, Ganjuwa, Misau, Ningi, and Warji LGAs.

NAN

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has won Saturdays presidential election and nine National Assembly seats in Adamawa State.

Mohammed Mele, the state returning officer, announced this at the end of results collated from the 21 local government areas of the state on Monday.

Mr Mele, a professor, said PDPs Atiku Abubakar scored 417,611 votes to beat his closest contender, Bola Tinubu of All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 182,881 votes.

According to him, Peter Obi of Labour Party (LP) also netted 105,648 votes, while Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) scored 8,006 votes.

Mr Mele said that two of the three senatorial zones in the state were won by PDP, with one clinched by the APC.

He said that Adamawa Central and Southern senatorial districts went to the PDP, while APC retained its grip on the northern senatorial zone.

The returning officer added that seven of the eight Federal Constituencies were also won by the PDP, while APC got one seat.

He earlier said that the state has 2,186,465 registered voters, but 769,834 voters were accredited for the elections.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the elections in the state have concluded peacefully.

(NAN)

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Godiya Akwashiki of the Social Democractic Party (SDP) as the winner of Saturdays election for Nasarawa North Senatorial District.

The INEC Returning Officer, Ilemona Adofu, a professor of the Federal University, Lafia, in the early hours of Monday in Akwanga, declared Mr Akwashiki as winner with 44,471 votes.

Mr Adofu, a professor said Mr Akwashiki defeated a former Executive Secretary, National Judicial Commission (NJC), Danladi Halilu Envuluanza of the All Progressives Congress, who scored 32,058 votes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the People Democratic Party (PDP) scored 11,212 votes, New Nigeria Peoples Party 4,083 votes and All Progressives Grand Alliance 1,455 votes, among others.

Godiya Akwashiki SDP having scored the highest number of votes, is hereby declared as the winner of the election conducted on the 25th of February for Nasarawa North North Senatorial District, Mr Adofu said.

The Returning Officer said that the total registered votes in the zone were 338,042.

He added that votes cast were 101,863 while valid votes were 99,687 and rejected votes were 2,176.

Speaking in an interview, Muluku Agah, the SDP Returning Agent of the senatorial election, appreciated God and the people of the zone for the re-election of Mr Akwashiki.

Mr Agah, who is a member representing Nassarawa Eggon East Constituency at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, described the election as credible, free and fair.

The lawmaker, who is also the SDP candidate for Nassarawa Eggon East constituency for March 11 election, assured that Mr Akwashiki would provide more dividends of democracy to the people of the zone.

Mr Akwashiki, a former deputy speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, was first elected to the Senate in 2019 on the platform of the APC.

He left the APC and crossed over to the SDP last year after the Senatorial ticket of the party for the zone was given to Mr Envuluanza.

(NAN)

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cancelled the results of 11 polling units in Kogi on Saturday, over thuggery and failure of a Presiding Officer (PO) to operate the BVAS correctly.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the results of 10 polling units were cancelled in Ofu Local Government Area (LGA) due to activities of political thugs, and a polling unit in Yagba East LGA due to ineptness of a PO.

Alhassan Abdulrahaman, the Collation Officer for Yagba LGA, on Sunday disclosed cancellation in his area while presenting the results to the State Collation Officer, Wahab Egbewal, Vice Chancellor, University of Ilorin.

NAN reports that Mr Abdulrahaman had barely finished his presentation when Mr Egbewale asked him whether any result was cancelled in the area and he answered in the affirmative.

Yes Sir, we do have cause to cancel some results in Yagba East Local Government during last Saturdays Presidential and National Assembly elections.

At Unit 006 of Ward 10, we have no option but to cancel the results of that particular unit for a simple reason that the PO didnt know how to operate the BVAS issued to her for the exercise.

It looks as if she wasnt trained for the job, because we tried to help her but she couldnt pick up. We were so amazed.

ALSO READ: INEC to cancel elections in parts of Kogi over violence

At that point, we had no option than to cancel the result of that very unit, Mr Abdulrahaman explained.

Abdullahi Musa-Yusuf, Collation Officer (CO) for Ofu LGA of Kogi, while presenting his results, said results of 10 units had to be cancelled due to activities of political thugs.

Musa-Yusuf said the political thugs invaded the affected units in Itobe and Ayaji wards and packed away the election materials, a situation he said disrupted the election in those units.

He disclosed that more than 6,600 votes in those units had to be cancelled.

NAN reports that results of a total of 14 out of 21 Local Government Areas of Kogi were received by the Mr-Egbewale-led team at the Kogi Situation Room/Collation Centre, including, Bassa, Idah, Igalamela-Odolu, Umala, Okehi and Olama-Boro.

Dekina, Adavi and Ibaji LGAs, whose results could not tally were asked to go and tidy up and return on Monday to represent theirs.

Mr Egbewale, thereafter, thanked all stakeholders including patties agents, security operatives, observers, journalists and INEC officials and adjourned the collation to 11 a.m. of Monday, 27 February for continuation. (NAN)

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Ahmed Wadada of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) winner of the Nasarawa West Senatorial District election.

Nasirudeen Baba, INEC Returning Officer for the Nasarawa West Senatorial District election, made the declaration after the collation of results on Monday at the Zonal collation centre in Keffi local government area of the state.

According to the associate professor, Mr Wadada polled 96488 votes as against the candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), who scored 47,717 votes.

The name of APC candidate was not on the list due to legal case at the Supreme Court that has now been resolved in favour of Shehu Tukur.

Mr Baba added that Musa Galadima of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) scored 46,820 votes while Bala Tongurma of the Labour Party scored 33,228 votes.

He said total votes cast for the election was 234,040, while total valid votes amounted to 228,917 with 5123 votes rejected.

I Associate Professor Nasirudeen Baba hereby certify that I am the returning officer for the 2023 Nasarawa West Senatorial District election held on the 25th of February, 2023.

That Wadada Ahmed of SDP having satisfied the requirements of the law is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected, he said.

Yakubu Mohammed-Salisu, SDPs agent for the election, attributed Mr Wadadas victory to his antecedents of mentoring the young and the poor.

This election is the peoples choice, he said.

The Nasarawa West Senatorial District is where the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu, comes from.

Mr Adamu represented the zone at the Senate before his election as national chairman of the APC in 2022.

(NAN)

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Dan Amos of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been declared the winner of the National Assembly election for Jemaa/Sanga Federal Constituency of Kaduna State.

The Returning Officer, Yunusa Umaru, who declared the result in Kafanchan on Monday, said that Mr Amos polled 32,578 to defeat his closest rival, Anto Usman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who got 26,793 votes.

Mr Umaru said that Avejagbi Moses of the Labour Party (LP) came third with 22, 979 votes while New Nigeria Peoples Partys (NNPP) Adamu Ransome came fourth with 1,066 votes.

Mr Dan Amos of the PDP, having satisfied the requirement of the law by scoring the highest votes, is hereby declared the winner, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Amos is a former Council Chairman of Jemaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State. (NAN)

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday declared Abdulrahaman Sumaila as the winner of the Kano South Senatorial election.

Ibrahim Barde of Bayero University Kano (BUK), the returning officer, announced Mr Kawu of the new Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) as the winner after scoring 319,557 votes.

Mr Barde said Mr Kawu defeated his closest contender, Kabiru Gaya of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who polled 192,518 votes.

Similarly, the INEC declared NNPPs Garba Ibrahim Disu as the winner of the Gwale Federal Constituency of the state.

The Returning Officer, Aliyu Kantudu of BUK, announced the results at Gwale on Monday.

Mr Kantudu said Mr Disu scored 40,282 votes to defeat his closest rival, Abdullahi Lawal of the APC, who scored 9,726 votes.

INEC also announced Dankawu Idris of the NNPP as the winner of the Kumbotso Federal Constituency of the state.

Abdulkadir Magashi, the returning officer, announced the results in Kumbotso Local Government Area on Monday.

Mr Magaji said Mr Idris scored 36,707 votes, while Manniru Babba Dan Agundi of the APC clinched 9,556 votes.

In the same vein Garba Galadanchi, the returning officer for Tarauni Federal Constituency, declared Muktar Umar of NNPP as the winner of the parliamentary election after scoring 26,273 votes.

Mr Galandanchi said Mr Umar defeated Hafiz Mohammed Kawu of the APC who scored 15,931 votes.

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The Resident Electoral Commissioner for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers, Johnson Alalibo, has urged Rivers voters and all stakeholders to be patient and to trust the process of electioneering.

Mr Alalibo gave the advice in a briefing on Sunday to journalists at the Commissions headquarters in Port Harcourt.

He explained that the presidential and national assembly election results were collected primarily from the polling units via forms EC8A, EC8A1 and ECSAA2.

Mr Alalibo said the process went on smoothly in all the LGAs, though the presiding officers had a problem uploading results from polling units to the INEC result portal.

Mr Alalibo attributed the problem to the poor network which, he said, was a national issue.

He said he had received orders from the headquarter to conduct an election within 24 hours in all the areas the election did not hold due to one problem or the other.

Mr Alalibo explained that Section 473 of the electoral act 2023 allows the election to be conducted within 24 hours if the BIVAS malfunctions.

He said that the commission was unable to deploy to about seven registration areas out of 17 registration areas in the Degema Local Government Area in the state.

He said that the commission would possibly conduct the election in the seven areas in Degema Monday, 27 February.

Mr Alalibo said that results collation at the state level would start immediately after the results arrived from the collation centres at the commissions headquarters in Rivers.

We are yet to receive results from LGAs, I and the Commissioner of Police have been here waiting for the results, once they start coming in, we will state collation, Mr Alalibo said.

He said that the collation would be going on simultaneously at other constituencies and collation centres for the senatorial and House of Representatives elections.

Mr Alalibo said that the headquarters would tackle the challenges of non-uploading of results of some local government areas in the state from the polling units.

He said that any issue of result that could not be handled by the state commission would be directed to the national headquarters.

(NAN)

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Some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were held in the commissions office in Ogoja, Cross River over an alleged missing Declaration Form.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that trouble started after the declaration of Jarigbe Agom-Jarigbe as the winner of the Cross River North senatorial district election and he could not be issued with the Declaration Form upon demand.

The Ogoja Electoral Officer, Peter Kolo, tried to convince the senator that it would be issued later since the one meant for the senator-elect was not readily available.

This, however, infuriated supporters of the senator who demanded that it be issued immediately or no one would be allowed to leave the office premises.

However, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Gabriel Yomere, said, when responding through a phone call, that he sent the form along with other electoral materials.

Mr Agom-Jarigbes supporters, however, blocked the gate of the compound and said no staff of the commission would be allowed to go out until the Declaration Form was presented to the senator-elect.

NAN reports that the issue, which started around 3:05 a.m., was yet to be sorted out as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, Mr Agom-Jarigbe defeated Governor Ben Ayade of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Cross River North senatorial seat.

The Peoples Democratic Party candidate defeated the governor in the election conducted on Saturday with 76,145 votes against 56,595 votes.

(NAN)

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared incumbent senator, Adetokunbo Abiru, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as winner of the Lagos East Senatorial District election held Saturday.

Simeon Adebayo Oladipo, the senatorial returning officer, announced Mr Abiru as winner of the poll on Monday in Lagos.

Mr Oladipo, the returning officer for the East Senatorial District, who declared the results at about 12.48 p.m. at INEC Collation Centre in Somolu, said Mr Abiru secured 178,646 votes.

With the figure, Mr Oladipo, a professor, said Mr Abiru beat his closest opponent, Akobada Nicholas Adekunle of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who got 80, 249 votes.

The East Senatorial District comprises Somolu, Kosofe, Epe, Ibeju-Lekki and Ikorodu local governments of Lagos.

According to Mr Oladipo, nine political parties contested for the East Senatorial election seat.

The returning officer said that the election was contested and the candidates recorded the following votes.

Imumolen Ehijele Benedict, A, scored 2, 211 votes: Ashiru George Olalekan-Honey, ADC, scored 14, 713 votes; Olowolayemo Temitope Temitayo, BP, scored 1,049 votes and Lawal Nurudeen Folorunsho, NNPP, scored 7,305 votes.

Others are Ediale Christopher, NRM, scored 508 votes; Oluwaranmilowo Mayowa, SDP, scored 6,009 votes and Obadiaru Charles Imuenoghonwen, YPP, scored 4, 345 votes.

Mr Oladipo said, I, Prof. Simeon Adebayo Oladipo, hereby, certify that I am the Returning Officer for the Lagos East Senatorial election, Somolu, held on the 25th day of February, 2023 that the election was contested

Abiru having scored the highest votes at the election, has won the Lagos East Senatorial seat.

l, hereby, declared Abiru Mikhail Adetokunbo, winner and returned elected on 27th February, 2023.

Abiru Mikhail Adetokunbo of APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, has scored the highest number of votes, he is hereby declared the winner and returned elected on 27th February, 2023, Mr Oladipo said.

(NAN)

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected the Labour Partys victory in Lagos State.

Tunji Shelle, a former chairperson of the party in the state, who was also the partys agent at the INEC collation centre in the Yaba area of the state, said the integrity of the process is highly compromised.

I dont accept the result on behalf of my party, he said on Monday after the collation process.

It is not because we have not won the election, but the process has been compromised.

Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, won the most votes in the commercial hub of the country.

Mr Obi polled 582,454 votes, just ahead of 572,606 Bola Tinubu of the APC.

Atiku Abubakar of the PDP had 75,750 votes.

Its like the INEC both the ad-hoc and the main staff, some of them are properly trained in the system that they are trying to deliver credible, free and fair elections, he continued.

READ ALSO:

I dont think the ad-hoc staff are properly trained and this affected the output at the end of the day. We are not ready for the use of BVAS. Because the use is compromised, the uploading process was not properly done, and a lot of results were not uploaded and yet we have the result released.

It is absurd and unacceptable.

Mr Shelle added that the BVAS is supposed to aid the electoral process but it is like it has taken us back.

The uploading process was not properly done; most of the results that could have come out of the BVAS are not the ones used at the end of the day.

However, the APC party agent, Foaud Oki, present at the centre, described LPs victory as democracy at work. He added that the people have spoken.

He said the latest development is a call for a review of our process.

He also expressed confidence that the 11 March governorship election

, will be quite different.

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has alleged that the results of last Saturdays presidential election have been doctored and manipulated.

The ex-president, who called on President Muhammadu Buhari to demand a review of the results collation process, said this through a statement he personally signed on Monday.

He alleged that most of the results that are brought outside BVAS and Server are not true reflection of the will of Nigerians.

Mr Obasanjo is one of the major backers of the Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Labour Party and some other opposition parties like PDP had withdrawn from the final collation and announcement of results after they accused the electoral commission of not posting results on the INEC web portal, iREV.

The parties said not pasting the results from the polling units on the online portal as required by INEC guidelines suggests the results being announced may have been tampered with.

In his Monday statement, Mr Obasanjo hailed Mr Buhari for his resolve to ensure a legacy of free, fair, transparent and credible elections.

He, however, appealed to President Buhari to save the country from the looming danger that might hit the country as a result of the election.

A total of 18 candidates are taking part in the presidential election. But only four, candidates of the Labour Party, APC, PDP and NNPP, are considered major contenders.

Read Mr Obasanjos full statement below.

READ THE STATEMENT IN FULL

PRESS RELEASE

2023 NIGERIA PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

 AN APPEAL FOR CAUTION AND RECTIFICATION

Nigerian Brothers and Sisters, greetings to you all.

I am constrained to speak at this point.

I crave the indulgence of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency General Muhammadu Buhari, to make this statement because I have had opportunity to keep him aware of what I know is happening and the danger looming ahead.

On many occasions in the past, I have not hesitated to point out lacuna in the action of the President and his government. But as far as the election issues are concerned, the President has proved beyond reasonable doubt that he will want to leave a legacy of free, fair, transparent and credible elections.

Until last Saturday night, February 25, 2023, the good and noble plan and preparation for the elections seemed to be going well. For the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), a lot of money was spent to introduce Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and the Server for immediate transmission of results from polling units. It is no secret that INEC officials, at operational level, have been allegedly compromised to make what should have worked not to work and to revert to manual transmission of results which is manipulated and the results doctored.

The Chairman of INEC may claim ignorance but he cannot fold his hands and do nothing when he knows that election process has been corrupted and most of the results that are brought outside BVAS and Server are not true reflection of the will of Nigerians who have made their individual choice. At this stage, we do not need wittingly or unwittingly to set this country on fire with the greed, irresponsibility and unpatriotic act of those who allegedly gave money to INEC officials for perversion and those who collected the blood money. Let me appeal to the Chairman of INEC, if his hands are clean, to save Nigeria from the looming danger and disaster which is just waiting to happen. If the Chairman can postpone elections four days to the election, he can do everything to rectify the errors of the last two days  no BVAS, no result to be acceptable; and no uploading through Server, no result to be acceptable.

Whereas, BVAS and Servers have been manipulated or rendered inactive, such results must be declared void and inadmissible for election declaration. Chairman INEC, I have thought that you would use this wonderful opportunity to mend your reputation and character for posterity.

Your Excellency, President Buhari Muhammadu, tension is building up and please let all elections that do not pass the credibility and transparency test be cancelled and be brought back with areas where elections were disrupted for next Saturday, March 4, 2023, and BVAS and Server officials be changed. To know which stations or polling units were manipulated, let a Committee of INEC staff and representatives of the four major political parties with the Chairman of Nigerian Bar Association look into what must be done to have hitch-free elections next Saturday. Mr. President, may your plan and hope for leaving a legacy of free, fair, transparent and credible election be realised. Mr. President, please dont let anybody say to you that it does not matter or it is the problem of INEC. On no account should you be seen as part of the collusion or compromise. When the die is cast, it will be your problem as the Chief Executive of the nation. The Chairman of INEC may sneak out of the country or go back to his ivory tower. Your Excellency, thank you for hearing me out.

Compatriot Nigerians, please exercise patience until the wrong is righted. I strongly believe that nobody will toy with the future and fortune of Nigeria at this juncture.

Long live Nigeria in peace, security, stability and in the hope for greater future.

OLUSEGUN OBASANJO

February 27, 2023

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Pafos (Cyprus) and Seville (Spain) will be in Hall 20, stand 303 at this year's event, 7-9 March

BRUSSELS, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- 2023 European Capitals of Smart Tourism Pafos (Cyprus) and Seville (Spain) are participating in ITB Berlin 2023. Representatives from the two cities will be at the European Capital of Smart Tourism stand (Hall 20, stand 303).

The two cities are setting the standard in a form of tourism that is accessible, digital, sustainable and creative. For tourists, this means better experiences, for locals, it means they can make the most out of their city, as well as better jobs, and, for the environment, it means a greener future.

Some of the leading practices from the two cities include:

Pafos:

Visitors can take a deep dive into the city's history thanks to the Pafos UNESCO Archaeological park app and smart signs. These tools provide a personalised and enhanced digital guide to the destination. The app is available in several languages, includes interactive content, videos and photo galleries for each location, as well as 360 tours.

The Pafos Smart Parking System uses state-of-the-art technology to provide real-time information on available parking spaces, making it easy for citizens and visitors to find a spot quickly and easily. This means fuel and time are no longer wasted, whilst looking for a space.

Seville:

The city is seeking to furnish harmony between residents and visitors. One way of doing this is to manage the flow of people in congested areas. To do this, the city's smart tourism office has set up a network of sensors, including AI cameras, Wi-Fi tracking and triangulation of operator signals. The data collected from these sensors is fed into a tool that will enable the correct redistribution of tourist flows towards areas of the city where congestion is lower, taking into consideration other tourist attractions that the city wishes to promote.

Celebrations and festivals are being made fully accessible thanks to the SEVILLE ACCESSIBLE app. This tool entails integrated maps and routes, as well as noiseless schedules. It also points towards the most accessible attractions, suitable for people of all abilities.

The European Capital of Smart Tourism is an EU initiative that aims to promote smart tourism in the EU by rewarding cities for their pioneering smart tourism approaches in accessibility, digitalisation, sustainability, and cultural heritage and creativity. Built on the successful experience of a preparatory action proposed by the European Parliament, the initiative seeks to foster innovative, sustainable, and inclusive tourism development, as well as spread and facilitate the exchange of best practices.

For the latest updates on the European Capital of Smart Tourism, follow us on our website, Facebook, or Twitter, and subscribe to our Podcast series.

For further press information, contact:

European Capital of Smart Tourism Secretariat:

Sandra Bumbar-Malchow or Antigoni Avgeropoulou, [email protected], +49 (0) 30 70 01 86 390

Notes to Editors:

The 2023 European Capital of Smart Tourism competition was open to submissions from 31 March 2022 to 1 June 2022 . Terms and conditions are available at https://smarttourismcapital.eu. In the first stage of the competition, a panel of independent experts evaluated the applications. As the result of the evaluation, a shortlist of 7 finalist cities was established. All finalist cities demonstrated excellence across the four competition categories combined. In the second stage, representatives of the 7 finalist cities presented their candidatures and the programme of activities planned for 2023 in front of the European Jury. The European Jury met on 9 November 2022 in Brussels and selected two cities to hold the title of the European Capitals of Smart Tourism in 2023. Smart tourism responds to new challenges and demands in a fast-changing sector, including the expectation of digital information, products, and services; equal opportunities and access for all visitors; sustainable development of the local area; and support to creative industries and local talent. In 2021, from amongst 30 EU cities which applied, Bordeaux and Valencia were selected as the European Capitals of Smart Tourism 2022. In 2019, amongst 35 EU cities which applied, Malaga and Gothenburg stood out and were selected as the European Capitals of Smart Tourism 2020. In 2018, amongst 38 EU cities, Helsinki and Lyon stood out and were selected the European Capitals of Smart Tourism 2019. Watch the Smart Tourism Capitals video for Bordeaux and Valencia.

SOURCE European Capital of Smart Tourism
A total of 24 accepted abstracts, including six oral and digital oral presentations, reinforce AbbVie's commitment to research that helps advance standards of care for patients living with i nflammatory bowel diseases

Data from ADVANCE, MOTIVATE and FORTIFY studies highlighting efficacy outcomes and clinical response in patients receiving SKYRIZI for treatment of moderately to severely active Crohn's disease

Oral presentations from sub-analyses of U-EXCEL, U-EXCEED and U-ENDURE address treatment of moderately to severely active Crohn's disease, including efficacy outcomes from the upadacitinib (RINVOQ ) clinical trial program

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) will present further analyses on SKYRIZI (risankizumab) in Crohn's disease (CD) and RINVOQ (upadacitinib) in ulcerative colitis (UC) as well as the investigational use of upadacitinib in CD at the 18th Congress of European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation (ECCO), to be held March 1-4 in Copenhagen, Denmark. AbbVie will present 24 abstracts, including four oral presentations, two digital oral presentations and 18 posters from a broad range of studies across its inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) portfolio.

"We are excited by the opportunity to present further analyses on the advancements of our expanding IBD portfolio at this year's 18th ECCO Congress," said Sofie Berg, Pharm.D, Ph.D., head of gastroenterology, global medical affairs, AbbVie. "Our data at ECCO underscore AbbVie's unwavering commitment to driving discoveries and delivering advancements for patients where expanded options are needed with the goal of positively impacting the treatment of those living with IBD."

Key data presentations will include:

Sequencing in IBD - Scientific Session 2: Can we do better with current drugs? ( 2 Mar 2023 , 14:30-16:00 CET )

, ) OP04 Efficacy of upadacitinib in ulcerative colitis: A Phase 3 post hoc analysis of biologic- and anti-TNF-inadequate response patients





Efficacy of upadacitinib in ulcerative colitis: A Phase 3 post hoc analysis of biologic- and anti-TNF-inadequate response patients Sequencing in IBD - Scientific Session 5: Endoscopy as precision medicine approach to IBD - in collaboration with the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) (Plenary Hall, 3 Mar 2023 , 11:00-12:30 CET )

, ) OP16 Endoscopic and clinical outcomes of upadacitinib in patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease by number and type of prior biologics

Endoscopic and clinical outcomes of upadacitinib in patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease by number and type of prior biologics

OP17 Upadacitinib improves endoscopic outcomes in patients with moderate to severely active Crohn's disease irrespective of previous failure to respond to biologics or conventional therapies





Upadacitinib improves endoscopic outcomes in patients with moderate to severely active Crohn's disease irrespective of previous failure to respond to biologics or conventional therapies Sequencing in IBD - Scientific Session 6: Pain in IBD - in collaboration with the European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) ( 3 Mar 2023 , 13:30-15:30 CET )

, ) OP20 The effects of upadacitinib on ulcerative colitis symptom resolution and fatigue normalization in patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis: Phase 3 U-ACHIEVE and U-ACCOMPLISH results

"Despite continued advancements in the treatment of IBD, many patients are still negatively impacted by the burdens of living with their disease," said Silvio Danese, M.D. Ph.D. director of gastroenterology and endoscopy at IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and professor of gastroenterology at University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy. "AbbVie's research at ECCO helps support their goal of providing a diverse portfolio of treatments and research that continues to advance the standard of care for IBD patients."

The full scientific program for the 18th ECCO Congress is available here.

SKYRIZI (risankizumab) is part of a collaboration between Boehringer Ingelheim and AbbVie, with AbbVie leading development and commercialization globally.

About Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic, idiopathic, immune-mediated inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) of the large intestine that causes continuous mucosal inflammation extending, to a variable extent, from the rectum to the more proximal colon.1,2 The hallmark signs and symptoms of ulcerative colitis include rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, tenesmus (a sense of pressure), urgency and fecal incontinence.1,3 The disease course of ulcerative colitis varies between patients and can range from quiescent disease to chronic refractory disease, which in some cases can lead to surgery or complications, including cancer or death.2,4 The severity of symptoms and unpredictability of disease course can lead to substantial burden and often disability among those living with the disease.5

About Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic disease that manifests as inflammation within the gastrointestinal (or digestive) tract, causing persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding.2,6,7 It is a progressive disease, meaning it gets worse over time.2,7 Because the signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease are unpredictable, it causes a significant burden on people living with the diseasenot only physically, but also emotionally and economically.5

About RINVOQ (upadacitinib)

Discovered and developed by AbbVie scientists, RINVOQ is a selective JAK inhibitor that is being studied in several immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Based on enzymatic and cellular assays, RINVOQ demonstrated greater inhibitory potency for JAK-1 vs JAK-2, JAK-3, and TYK-2.8 The relevance of inhibition of specific JAK enzymes to therapeutic effectiveness and safety is not currently known.

In the U.S., RINVOQ 15 mg is approved for adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers; adults with active psoriatic arthritis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers; adults with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers and adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis with objective signs of inflammation who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to TNF blocker therapy.8 RINVOQ 45 mg is approved for use in adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more TNF blockers as an induction therapy once daily for 8 weeks. The recommended dose of RINVOQ for maintenance treatment is 15 mg once daily. A dosage of 30 mg once daily may be considered for patients with refractory, severe or extensive disease. Discontinue RINVOQ if an adequate response is not achieved with the 30 mg dose. Use the lowest effective dosage needed to maintain response. RINVOQ 15 mg once daily can also be initiated in adults and children 12 years of age and older weighing at least 40 kg with refractory, moderate to severe atopic dermatitis whose disease is not adequately controlled with other systemic drug products, including biologics or when use of those therapies is inadvisable. In these children and adults less than 65 years of age who do not achieve an adequate response, the dose may be increased to 30 mg once daily.

Phase 3 trials of RINVOQ in rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis are ongoing.9-16

US Indications and Important Safety Information about RINVOQ (upadacitinib)8

USES

RINVOQ is a prescription medicine used to treat:

Adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated.

when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated.

when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated.

when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated.

when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) with objective signs of inflammation when a TNF blocker medicine has been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated.

It is not known if RINVOQ is safe and effective in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, ankylosing spondylitis, or non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis.

Adults and children 12 years of age and older with moderate to severe eczema (atopic dermatitis [AD]) that did not respond to previous treatment and their eczema is not well controlled with other pills or injections, including biologic medicines, or the use of other pills or injections is not recommended.

RINVOQ is safe and effective in children 12 years of age and older weighing at least 88 pounds (40 kg) with atopic dermatitis.

It is not known if RINVOQ is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age with atopic dermatitis.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about RINVOQ?

RINVOQ may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious infections. RINVOQ can lower your ability to fight infections. Serious infections have happened while taking RINVOQ, including tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider (HCP) should test you for TB before starting RINVOQ and check you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with RINVOQ. You should not start taking RINVOQ if you have any kind of infection unless your HCP tells you it is okay. If you get a serious infection, your HCP may stop your treatment until your infection is controlled. You may be at higher risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster).

RINVOQ can lower your ability to fight infections. Serious infections have happened while taking RINVOQ, including tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider (HCP) should test you for TB before starting RINVOQ and check you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with RINVOQ. You should not start taking RINVOQ if you have any kind of infection unless your HCP tells you it is okay. If you get a serious infection, your HCP may stop your treatment until your infection is controlled. You may be at higher risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster). Increased risk of death in people 50 years and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor.

Cancer and immune system problems. RINVOQ may increase your risk of certain cancers. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. Current or past smokers are at higher risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and lung cancer. Follow your HCP's advice about having your skin checked for skin cancer during treatment with RINVOQ. Limit the amount of time you spend in sunlight. Wear protective clothing when you are in the sun and use sunscreen.

RINVOQ may increase your risk of certain cancers. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. Current or past smokers are at higher risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and lung cancer. Follow your HCP's advice about having your skin checked for skin cancer during treatment with RINVOQ. Limit the amount of time you spend in sunlight. Wear protective clothing when you are in the sun and use sunscreen. Increased risk of major cardiovascular (CV) events, such as heart attack, stroke, or death, in people 50 years and older who have at least 1 heart disease (CV) risk factor, especially if you are a current or past smoker.

Blood clots. Blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs and arteries can happen with RINVOQ. This may be life-threatening and cause death. Blood clots in the veins of the legs and lungs have happened more often in people who are 50 years and older and with at least 1 heart disease (CV) risk factor.

Blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs and arteries can happen with RINVOQ. This may be life-threatening and cause death. Blood clots in the veins of the legs and lungs have happened more often in people who are 50 years and older and with at least 1 heart disease (CV) risk factor. Allergic reactions. Symptoms such as rash (hives), trouble breathing, feeling faint or dizzy, or swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat, that may mean you are having an allergic reaction have been seen in people taking RINVOQ. Some of these reactions were serious. If any of these symptoms occur during treatment with RINVOQ, stop taking RINVOQ and get emergency medical help right away.

Symptoms such as rash (hives), trouble breathing, feeling faint or dizzy, or swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat, that may mean you are having an allergic reaction have been seen in people taking RINVOQ. Some of these reactions were serious. If any of these symptoms occur during treatment with RINVOQ, stop taking RINVOQ and get emergency medical help right away. Tears in the stomach or intestines and changes in certain laboratory tests. Your HCP should do blood tests before you start taking RINVOQ and while you take it. Your HCP may stop your RINVOQ treatment for a period of time if needed because of changes in these blood test results.

Do not take RINVOQ if you are allergic to upadacitinib or any of the ingredients in RINVOQ. See the Medication Guide or Consumer Brief Summary for a complete list of ingredients.

What should I tell my HCP BEFORE starting RINVOQ?

Tell your HCP if you:

Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won't go away or keeps coming back, or have symptoms of an infection, such as:

 Fever, sweating, or chills  Shortness of breath  Warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body  Muscle aches  Feeling tired  Blood in phlegm  Diarrhea or stomach pain  Cough  Weight loss  Burning when urinating or urinating more often than normal

Have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB.

Are a current or past smoker.

Have had a heart attack, other heart problems, or stroke.

Have or have had any type of cancer, hepatitis B or C, shingles (herpes zoster), blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs, diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine), or ulcers in your stomach or intestines.

Have other medical conditions, including liver problems, low blood cell counts, diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system.

Live, have lived, or have traveled to parts of the country, such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the Southwest, that increase your risk of getting certain kinds of fungal infections. If you are unsure if you've been to these types of areas, ask your HCP.

and Mississippi River valleys and the Southwest, that increase your risk of getting certain kinds of fungal infections. If you are unsure if you've been to these types of areas, ask your HCP. Have recently received or are scheduled to receive a vaccine. People who take RINVOQ should not receive live vaccines.

Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Based on animal studies, RINVOQ may harm your unborn baby. Your HCP will check whether or not you are pregnant before you start RINVOQ. You should use effective birth control (contraception) to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment with RINVOQ and for 4 weeks after your last dose.

Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. RINVOQ may pass into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with RINVOQ and for 6 days after your last dose.

Tell your HCP about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. RINVOQ and other medicines may affect each other, causing side effects.

Especially tell your HCP if you take:

Medicines for fungal or bacterial infections

Rifampicin or phenytoin

Medicines that affect your immune system

If you are not sure if you are taking any of these medicines, ask your HCP or pharmacist.

What should I avoid while taking RINVOQ?

Avoid food or drink containing grapefruit during treatment with RINVOQ as it may increase the risk of side effects.

What should I do or tell my HCP AFTER starting RINVOQ?

Tell your HCP right away if you have any symptoms of an infection. RINVOQ can make you more likely to get infections or make any infections you have worse.

Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking RINVOQ, including:

- Discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back

- Severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw

- Pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort

- Breaking out in a cold sweat

- Nausea or vomiting

- Feeling lightheaded

- Weakness in one part or on one side of your body

- Slurred speech

Tell your HCP right away if you have any signs or symptoms of blood clots during treatment with RINVOQ, including:

 Swelling  Pain or tenderness in one or both legs  Sudden unexplained chest or upper back pain  Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Tell your HCP right away if you have a fever or stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits.

What are other possible side effects of RINVOQ?

Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), shingles (herpes zoster), herpes simplex virus infections (including cold sores), bronchitis, nausea, cough, fever, acne, headache, increased blood levels of creatine phosphokinase, allergic reactions, inflammation of hair follicles, stomach-area (abdominal) pain, increased weight, flu, tiredness, lower number of certain types of white blood cells (neutropenia, lymphopenia), muscle pain, flu-like illness, rash, increased blood cholesterol levels, and increased liver enzyme levels.

A separation or tear to the lining of the back part of the eye (retinal detachment) has happened in people with atopic dermatitis treated with RINVOQ. Call your HCP right away if you have any sudden changes in your vision during treatment with RINVOQ.

These are not all the possible side effects of RINVOQ.

How should I take RINVOQ?

RINVOQ is taken once a day with or without food. Do not split, crush, or chew the tablet. Take RINVOQ exactly as your HCP tells you to use it. RINVOQ is available in 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg extended-release tablets.

This is the most important information to know about RINVOQ. For more information, talk to your HCP.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

If you are having difficulty paying for your medicine, AbbVie may be able to help. Visit AbbVie.com/myAbbVieAssist to learn more.

Please click here for Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for RINVOQ.

Globally, prescribing information varies; refer to the individual country product label for complete information.

About SKYRIZI (risankizumab-rzaa)

SKYRIZI is an interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitor that selectively blocks IL-23 by binding to its p19 subunit.17,18 IL-23, a cytokine involved in inflammatory processes, is thought to be linked to a number of chronic immune-mediated diseases, including Crohn's disease.18 The approved dose to treat adults with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease is 600 mg administered by intravenous infusion over at least one hour at week 0, week 4, and week 8, followed by 360 mg administered by subcutaneous injection at week 12, and every 8 weeks thereafter.19 SKYRIZI is also approved in the U.S. to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy, as well as to treat active psoriatic arthritis in adults, and the recommended dosage is 150 mg administered by subcutaneous injection at week 0, week 4, and every 12 weeks thereafter.19 Phase 3 trials of SKYRIZI in psoriasis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and psoriatic arthritis are ongoing.19,20



US Indications and Important Safety Information about SKYRIZI (risankizumab-rzaa)19

SKYRIZI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with:

moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or treatment using ultraviolet or UV light (phototherapy).

active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

moderate to severe Crohn's disease.

US Indications and Important Safety Information about SKYRIZI (risankizumab)19

SKYRIZI is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with:

moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may benefit from taking injections or pills (systemic therapy) or treatment using ultraviolet or UV light (phototherapy).

active psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

moderate to severe Crohn's disease.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about SKYRIZI (risankizumab-rzaa)?

SKYRIZI is a prescription medication that may cause serious side effects, including:

Serious Allergic Reactions:

Stop using SKYRIZI and get emergency medical help right away if you get any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:

Fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure)

Swelling of your face, eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat

Trouble breathing or throat tightness

Chest tightness

Skin rash, hives

Itching

Infections: SKYRIZI may lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections and may increase your risk of infections. Your healthcare provider should check you for infections and tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment with SKYRIZI and may treat you for TB before you begin treatment with SKYRIZI if you have a history of TB or have active TB. Your healthcare provider should watch you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during and after treatment with SKYRIZI.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have an infection or have symptoms of an infection, including:

fever, sweats, or chills



muscle aches



weight loss



cough



warm, red, or painful skin or sores on your body different from your psoriasis



diarrhea or stomach pain



shortness of breath



blood in your mucus (phlegm)



burning when you urinate or urinating more often than normal

Do not use SKYRIZI if you are allergic to risankizumab-rzaa or any of the ingredients in SKYRIZI. See the Medication Guide or Consumer Brief Summary for a complete list of ingredients.

Before using SKYRIZI, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

have any of the conditions or symptoms listed in the section " What is the most important information I should know about SKYRIZI? "

" have an infection that does not go away or that keeps coming back.

have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB.

have recently received or are scheduled to receive an immunization (vaccine). Medicines that interact with the immune system may increase your risk of getting an infection after receiving live vaccines. You should avoid receiving live vaccines right before, during, or right after treatment with SKYRIZI. Tell your healthcare provider that you are taking SKYRIZI before receiving a vaccine.

are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if SKYRIZI can harm your unborn baby.

are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if SKYRIZI passes into your breast milk.

become pregnant while taking SKYRIZI. You are encouraged to enroll in the Pregnancy Registry, which is used to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider or call 1-877-302-2161 to enroll in this registry.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

What are the possible side effects of SKYRIZI?

SKYRIZI may cause serious side effects. See "What is the most important information I should know about SKYRIZI?"

Liver problems in people with Crohn's disease: A person with Crohn's disease who received SKYRIZI by intravenous infusion developed changes in liver blood tests with a rash that led to hospitalization. Your doctor will do blood tests to check your liver before, during, and up to 12 weeks of treatment and may stop treatment with SKYRIZI if you develop liver problems. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms: unexplained rash, nausea, vomiting, stomach(abdominal) pain, tiredness(fatigue), loss of appetite, yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) and dark urine.

The most common side effects of SKYRIZI in people treated for Crohn's Disease include: upper respiratory infections, headache, joint pain, stomach (abdominal) pain, injection site reactions, low red blood cells (anemia), fever, back pain, and urinary tract infection.

The most common side effects of SKYRIZI in people treated for plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis include: upper respiratory infections, headache, feeling tired, injection site reactions, and fungal skin infections.

These are not all the possible side effects of SKYRIZI. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Use SKYRIZI exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it.

SKYRIZI is available in a 150 mg/mL prefilled syringe and pen, a 600mg/10mL intravenous infusion, and a 360mg/2.4mL single-dose prefilled cartridge with on-body injector.

This is the most important information to know about SKYRIZI. For more information, talk to your HCP.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

If you are having difficulty paying for your medicine, AbbVie may be able to help. Visit AbbVie.com/myAbbVieAssist to learn more.

Please click here for Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for SKYRIZI.

Globally, prescribing information varies; refer to the individual country product label for complete information.

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com . Follow @abbvie on Twitter , Facebook , LinkedIn or Instagram .

Forward-Looking Statements

Some statements in this news release are, or may be considered, forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project" and similar expressions, among others, generally identify forward-looking statements. AbbVie cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, failure to realize the expected benefits from AbbVie's acquisition of Allergan plc ("Allergan"), failure to promptly and effectively integrate Allergan's businesses, competition from other products, challenges to intellectual property, difficulties inherent in the research and development process, adverse litigation or government action, changes to laws and regulations applicable to our industry and the impact of public health outbreaks, epidemics or pandemics, such as COVID-19. Additional information about the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors that may affect AbbVie's operations is set forth in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of AbbVie's 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as updated by its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. AbbVie undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law.

References:

Gajendran M., et al. A comprehensive review and update on ulcerative colitis. Dis Mon. 2019 Dec;65(12):100851. doi: 10.1016/j.disamonth.2019.02.004. Epub 2019 Mar 2. The Facts about Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. 2014. Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2019-02/Updated%20IBD%20Factbook.pdf. Accessed on February 13, 2023. Ulcerative colitis. Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. 2020. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ulcerative-colitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353326. Accessed on February 13, 2023. Monstad, I., et al. Clinical course and prognosis in ulcerative colitis: results from population-based and observational studies. Ann Gastroenterol. 2014; 27(2): 95104. Mehta F. Report: economic implications of inflammatory bowel disease and its management. Am J Manag Care. 2016 Mar;22(3 Suppl):s51-60. Kaplan, G. The global burden of IBD: from 2015 to 2025. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2015 Dec;12(12):720-7. doi: 10.1038/nrgastro.2015.150. Crohn's disease. Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. 2020. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/crohns-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353304. Accessed on February 13, 2023 . RINVOQ (upadacitinib) [Package Insert]. North Chicago, Ill. : AbbVie Inc. A study comparing upadacitinib (ABT-494) to placebo and to adalimumab in adults with rheumatoid arthritis who are on a stable dose of methotrexate and who have an inadequate response to methotrexate (SELECT-COMPARE). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02629159. Accessed February 14, 2023 . https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02629159. A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of ABT-494 for the Induction of Symptomatic and Endoscopic Remission in Subjects With Moderately to Severely Active Crohn's Disease Who Have Inadequately Responded to or Are Intolerant to Immunomodulators or Anti-TNF Therapy. ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02365649. Accessed on February 14, 2023 . A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Upadacitinib in Participants With Giant Cell Arteritis (SELECT-GCA). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03725202. Accessed on February 14, 2023 . A Study Comparing Upadacitinib (ABT-494) to Placebo and to Adalimumab in Participants With Psoriatic Arthritis Who Have an Inadequate Response to at Least One Non-Biologic Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drug (SELECT - PsA 1). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03104400. Accessed on February 14, 2023 . A Study to Compare Safety and Efficacy of Upadacitinib to Dupilumab in Adult Participants With Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis (Heads Up). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03738397. Accessed on February 14, 2023 . Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib in Subjects With Takayasu Arteritis (SELECT-TAK). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT04161898. Accessed on November 8, 2022 . A Study to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib in Adult Participants With Axial Spondyloarthritis (SELECT AXIS 2). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04169373. Accessed on February 14, 2023 . SKYRIZI [Summary of Product Characteristics]. AbbVie Ltd. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/skyrizi-epar-product-information_en.pdf. Accessed on February 14, 2023 . Duvallet E., Sererano L., Assier E., et al. Interleukin-23: a key cytokine in inflammatory diseases. Ann Med. 2011. Nov 43(7):503-11. SKYRIZI [package insert]. North Chicago, IL : AbbVie Inc.; 2022. A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Induction Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Risankizumab in Participants With Moderately to Severely Active Ulcerative Colitis. ClinicalTrials.gov. 2021. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT03398148. Accessed on February 13, 2023 . Pipeline  Our Science | AbbVie. AbbVie. 2021. Available at: https://www.abbvie.com/our-science/pipeline.html. Accessed on February 13, 2023 .

SOURCE AbbVie
The positive CHMP opinion for upadacitinib is based on results from two induction studies and one maintenance study 1-4

Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic disease that manifests as inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract, causing persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain 5,6

If approved by the European Commission (EC), this will be the seventh indication for upadacitinib in the European Union (EU), and the first JAK inhibitor for Crohn's disease, adding to AbbVie's gastroenterology portfolio

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) today announced the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) recommended the approval of upadacitinib (RINVOQ, 45 mg [induction dose] and 15 mg and 30 mg [maintenance doses]) for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease who have had an inadequate response, lost response or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a biologic agent.1-4

"The recent CHMP recommendation to approve upadacitinib for use in Crohn's disease is a momentous step, bringing us closer to offering a first-of-its-kind, once-daily oral treatment that can make a difference for people living with this disease," said Roopal Thakkar, M.D., senior vice president, development, regulatory affairs and chief medical officer, AbbVie. "We remain steadfast in our commitment to researching and developing treatment options as part of a diverse portfolio of therapies for those living with inflammatory bowel diseases."

AbbVie's application for the approval of upadacitinib in Crohn's disease is supported by data from two induction studies, U-EXCEED and U-EXCEL, and one maintenance study, U-ENDURE.1 Patients receiving upadacitinib were treated with 45 mg once daily for the induction studies, and were randomized to receive either 15 mg or 30 mg once-daily doses for the maintenance study.1-4 Across all three Phase 3 studies, a significantly greater proportion of patients treated with upadacitinib achieved the co-primary endpoints of clinical remission per SF/AP (defined as average daily stool frequency [SF] 2.8 and abdominal pain [AP] score 1.0 and neither greater than baseline) and endoscopic response (defined as decrease in simple endoscopic score for Crohn's disease [SES-CD] >50% from baseline of the induction) compared to placebo.1-4

In all three studies, a statistically significant greater proportion of patients treated with upadacitinib achieved the key secondary endpoint of endoscopic remission (defined as SES-CD 4 and at least a 2-point reduction vs. baseline and no subscore >1). Additionally, more upadacitinib-treated patients achieved SES-CD ulcerated surface subscore of 0 at weeks 12 and 52 (nominal p-value<0.001) in patients with SES-CD ulcerated surface subscore 1 at baseline.1-4,* Absence or disappearance of ulceration coupled with improvements seen by endoscopy are associated with mucosal healing.7-10

The safety profile of upadacitinib in Crohn's disease was generally consistent with the known safety profile of upadacitinib.1-4 Similar rates of serious adverse events including serious infections were observed between patients receiving upadacitinib and placebo. Reports of malignancy, major cardiovascular events, venous thromboembolic events and gastrointestinal perforation were infrequently observed (<1.0 Events/100 Patient-Years).

"The impact of Crohn's disease extends beyond the gut to include systemic symptoms such as fatigue, bowel symptoms and social and emotional functioning. Treatment options that achieve critical endpoints such as clinical remission and endoscopic response can make a difference in managing the challenging symptoms of this condition and health-related outcomes related to quality of life," said Jean-Frederic Colombel, M.D., professor of medicine and director of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai and study investigator. "Upadacitinib could be a promising treatment option for patients who live with uncontrolled moderate to severe Crohn's disease. I look forward to the European Commission's final decision."

RINVOQ is approved in the EU for the treatment of adults with radiographic axial spondylarthritis, non-radiographic axial spondylarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis and adults and adolescents with atopic dermatitis.1,11-15

Use of upadacitinib in Crohn's disease is approved in Great Britain as of January 2023. Its safety and efficacy remain under evaluation in the European Union.

About Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic disease that manifests as inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract, causing persistent diarrhea and abdominal pain.5,6 It is a progressive disease, meaning it gets worse over time in a substantial proportion of patients or may develop complications that require urgent medical care, including surgery.5,6 Because the signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease are unpredictable, it causes a significant burden on people living with the diseasenot only physically, but also emotionally and economically.5,6

About the U-EXCEED and U-EXCEL Inductions Studies, and the U-ENDURE Maintenance Study 1-4

The three Phase 3 studies are multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib 45 mg as induction therapy and upadacitinib 15 mg and 30 mg as maintenance therapy in patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease. Topline results of the U-EXCEED and U-EXCEL induction studies were announced in December 2021 and February 2022. Topline results of the U-ENDURE maintenance study were announced in May 2022. More information can be found on www.clinicaltrials.gov (U-EXCEED: NCT03345836, U-EXCEL: NCT03345849, U-ENDURE: NCT03345823).

About Upadacitinib (RINVOQ)

Discovered and developed by AbbVie scientists, upadacitinib (RINVOQ) is a selective and reversible Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitor.1 In human cellular assays, upadacitinib preferentially inhibits signaling by JAK1 or JAK1/3 with functional selectivity over cytokine receptors that signal via pairs of JAK2.1

Phase 3 trials of RINVOQ in Crohn's disease, giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis are ongoing.1,16-18

EU Indications and Important Safety Information about Upadacitinib (RINVOQ) 1

Indications

Rheumatoid arthritis

RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adult patients who have responded inadequately to, or who are intolerant to one or more disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). RINVOQ may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate.

Psoriatic arthritis

RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adult patients who have responded inadequately to, or who are intolerant to one or more DMARDs. RINVOQ may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate.

Axial spondyloarthritis

Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA)

RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in adult patients with objective signs of inflammation as indicated by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), who have responded inadequately to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS, radiographic axial spondyloarthritis)

RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of active ankylosing spondylitis in adult patients who have responded inadequately to conventional therapy.

Atopic dermatitis

RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults and adolescents 12 years and older who are candidates for systemic therapy.

Ulcerative colitis

RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) who have had an inadequate response, lost response or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a biologic agent.

Important Safety Information

Contraindications

RINVOQ is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to the active substance or to any of the excipients, in patients with active tuberculosis (TB) or active serious infections, in patients with severe hepatic impairment, and during pregnancy.

Special warnings and precautions for use

Immunosuppressive medicinal products

Use in combination with other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.

Serious infections

Serious and sometimes fatal infections have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. The most frequent serious infections reported included pneumonia and cellulitis. Cases of bacterial meningitis have been reported. Among opportunistic infections, TB, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, and cryptococcosis have been reported with upadacitinib. As there is a higher incidence of infections in patients 65 years of age, caution should be used when treating this population. Upadacitinib should be interrupted if a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection.

Tuberculosis

Patients should be screened for TB before starting upadacitinib. Upadacitinib should not be given to patients with active TB. Anti-TB therapy may be appropriate for select patients in consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of TB. Patients should be monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of TB.

Viral reactivation

Viral reactivation, including cases of herpes zoster, was reported in clinical studies. The risk of herpes zoster appears to be higher in Japanese patients treated with upadacitinib. Consider interruption of upadacitinib if the patient develops herpes zoster.

Vaccinations

The use of live, attenuated vaccines during or immediately prior to therapy is not recommended. It is recommended that patients be brought up to date with all immunizations, including prophylactic zoster vaccinations, prior to initiating upadacitinib, in agreement with current immunization guidelines.

Malignancy

The risk of malignancies, including lymphoma is increased in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Malignancies, including nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), have been reported in patients treated with upadacitinib. Consider the risks and benefits of upadacitinib treatment prior to initiating therapy in patients with a known malignancy other than a successfully treated NMSC or when considering continuing upadacitinib therapy in patients who develop a malignancy. Periodic skin examination is recommended for patients who are at increased risk for skin cancer.

Hematological abnormalities

Treatment should not be initiated, or should be temporarily interrupted, in patients with hematological abnormalities observed during routine patient management.

Diverticulitis

Upadacitinib should be used with caution in patients with diverticular disease and especially in patients chronically treated with concomitant medications associated with an increased risk of diverticulitis.

Cardiovascular risk

RA patients have an increased risk for cardiovascular disorders. Patients treated with upadacitinib should have risk factors (e.g., hypertension, hyperlipidemia) managed as part of usual standard of care.

Lipids

Upadacitinib treatment was associated with dose-dependent increases in lipid parameters, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

Hepatic transaminase elevations

Treatment with upadacitinib was associated with an increased incidence of liver enzyme elevation. If alanine transaminase (ALT) or aspartate transaminase (AST) increases are observed and drug-induced liver injury is suspected, upadacitinib should be interrupted until this diagnosis is excluded.

Venous thromboembolisms

Events of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) have been reported in patients receiving JAK inhibitors, including upadacitinib. Upadacitinib should be used with caution in patients at high risk for DVT/PE. If clinical features of DVT/PE occur, upadacitinib should be discontinued and patients should be evaluated and treated appropriately.

Elderly

There is an increased risk of adverse reactions with the upadacitinib dose of 30 mg once daily in patients aged 65 years and older. The recommended dose for long-term use is 15 mg once daily for this patient population.

Hypersensitivity reactions

Serious hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. If a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction occurs, discontinue upadacitinib and institute appropriate therapy.

Adverse reactions

The most commonly reported adverse reactions in RA, PsA, and axSpA clinical trials (2% of patients in at least one of the indications) with upadacitinib 15 mg were upper respiratory tract infections, blood creatine phosphokinase (CPK) increased, ALT increased, bronchitis, nausea, neutropenia, cough, AST increased, and hypercholesterolemia. Overall, the safety profile observed in patients with psoriatic arthritis or active axial spondyloarthritis treated with RINVOQ 15 mg was consistent with the safety profile observed in patients with RA.

The most commonly reported adverse reactions in atopic dermatitis trials (2% of patients) with RINVOQ 15 mg or 30 mg were upper respiratory tract infection, acne, herpes simplex, headache, CPK increased, cough, folliculitis, abdominal pain, nausea, neutropenia, pyrexia, and influenza. Dose-dependent increased risks of infection and herpes zoster were observed with upadacitinib. The safety profile for upadacitinib 15 mg in adolescents was similar to that in adults. The safety and efficacy of the 30 mg dose in adolescents are still being investigated.

The most commonly reported adverse reactions in UC trials (3% of patients) with upadacitinib 45 mg, 30 mg or 15 mg were upper respiratory tract infection, blood CPK increased, acne, neutropenia, rash, herpes zoster, hypercholesterolemia, folliculitis, herpes simplex, and influenza. The overall safety profile observed in patients with ulcerative colitis was generally consistent with that observed in patients with RA.

The most common serious adverse reactions were serious infections.

The safety profile of upadacitinib with long-term treatment was generally similar to the safety profile during the placebo-controlled period across indications.

This is not a complete summary of all safety information.

See RINVOQ full Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) at www.ema.europa.eu

Globally, prescribing information varies; refer to the individual country product label for complete information.

About AbbVie in Gastroenterology

With a robust clinical trial program, AbbVie is committed to cutting-edge research to drive exciting developments in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. By innovating, learning and adapting, AbbVie aspires to eliminate the burden of IBD and make a positive long-term impact on the lives of people with IBD. For more information on AbbVie in gastroenterology, visit https://www.abbvie.com/our-science/therapeutic-focus-areas/immunology/immunology-focus-areas/gastroenterology.html.

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram.

Forward-Looking Statements

Some statements in this news release are, or may be considered, forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project" and similar expressions, among others, generally identify forward-looking statements. AbbVie cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, failure to realize the expected benefits from AbbVie's acquisition of Allergan plc ("Allergan"), failure to promptly and effectively integrate Allergan's businesses, competition from other products, challenges to intellectual property, difficulties inherent in the research and development process, adverse litigation or government action, changes to laws and regulations applicable to our industry and the impact of public health outbreaks, epidemics or pandemics, such as COVID-19. Additional information about the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors that may affect AbbVie's operations is set forth in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of AbbVie's 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as updated by its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. AbbVie undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law.

References:

Abbvie, Ltd. RINVOQ (upadacitinib) [summary of product characteristics]. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/rinvoq-epar-product-information_en.pdf. Accessed on December 7, 2022 . Colombel, J.F., Panes, J., Lacerda, A.P., et al. Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib Induction Therapy in Patients with Moderately to Severely Active Crohn's Disease Who Failed Prior Biologics: Results from a Randomized Phase 3 U-EXCEED Study. UEG Journal. 2022;S-1934. Accessed on December 12, 2022 . Loftus, E., Colombel, L.F., Lacerda, A.P., et al. Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib Induction Therapy in Patients with Moderately to Severely Active Crohn's Disease: Results from a Randomized Phase 3 U-EXCEL Study. UEG Journal. 2022; 10(8): 103-104. doi/10.1002/ueg2.12293. Accessed on December 12, 2022 . Panes, J., Loftus, E., Lacerda, A.P., et al. Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib Maintenance Therapy in Patients with Moderately to Severely Active Crohn's Disease: Results from a Randomized Phase 3 U-ENDURE Maintenance Study. American College of Gastroenterology. 2022: 1-14. Accessed on December 12, 2022 . Crohn's disease. Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/crohns-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353304. Accessed on December 7, 2022 . The Facts about Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. 2014. Available at: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2019-02/Updated%20IBD%20Factbook.pdf. Accessed on December 7, 2022 . Turner D, Ricciuto A, Lewis A, et al. STRIDE-II: an update on the selecting therapeutic targets in inflammatory bowel disease (STRIDE) initiative of the International Organization for the Study of IBD (IOIBD): determining therapeutic goals for treat-to-target strategies in IBD. Gastroenterology. 2021;160(5):1570-1583. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2020.12.031. Dave M, Loftus EV. Mucosal healing in inflammatory bowel diseasea true paradigm of success? Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012;8(1):29-38. Daperno M, Castiglione F, de Ridder L, et al. Results of the 2nd part Scientific Workshop of the ECCO. II: Measures and markers of prediction to achieve, detect, and monitor intestinal healing in inflammatory bowel disease. J Crohns Colitis. 2011;5(5):484-498. doi:10.1016/j.crohns.2011.07.003. European Medicines Agency. Guideline on the Development of New Medicinal Products for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. EMA Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP); 2018:18. Accessed February 20, 2022 . https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/scientific-guideline/guideline-development-new-medicinal-products-treatment-ulcerative-colitis-revision-1_en.pdf. Guttman-Yassky E, Teixeira HD, Simpson EL, et al. Once-daily upadacitinib versus placebo in adolescents and adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (Measure Up 1 and Measure Up 2): results from two replicate double-blind, randomised controlled phase 3 trials. The Lancet. 2021;397(10290):2151-2168. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(21)00588-2 Cohen SB, van Vollenhoven RF, Winthrop KL, et al. Safety profile of upadacitinib in rheumatoid arthritis: integrated analysis from the SELECT phase III clinical programme. Ann Rheum Dis. Published online October 28 , 2020:annrheumdis-2020-218510. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218510 van der Heijde D, Song IH, Pangan AL, et al. Efficacy and safety of upadacitinib in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis (SELECT-AXIS 1): a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2/3 trial. Lancet. 2019;394(10214):2108-2117. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(19)32534-6 Mease PJ, Lertratanakul A, Anderson JK, et al. Upadacitinib for psoriatic arthritis refractory to biologics: SELECT-PsA 2. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. 2021;80(3):312-320. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218870 Danese, S, Vermeire, S, Zhou, W, et al. Upadacitinib as induction and maintenance therapy for moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis: results from three phase 3, multicentre, double-blind, randomised trials. The Lancet. 2022;399(10341):2113-2128. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(22)00581-5. Pipeline  Our Science | AbbVie. AbbVie. 2022. Available at: https://www.abbvie.com/our-science/pipeline.html. Accessed on December 7, 2022. A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Upadacitinib in Participants With Giant Cell Arteritis (SELECT-GCA). ClinicalTrials.gov. 2022. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03725202. Accessed on December 7, 2022. A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib in Subjects With Takayasu Arteritis (TAK) (SELECT-TAK). ClinicalTrials.gov. 2022. Available at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04161898. Accessed on December 7, 2022.

* Mucosal healing was a prespecified endpoint, not controlled for multiplicity.

SOURCE AbbVie
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Achronix Semiconductor Corporation, a leader in high-performance field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and embedded FPGA (eFPGA) IP, today announced that President and CEO, Robert Blake, and CFO, Mahesh Karanth, will participate at the 35th Annual ROTH Conference to be held at the Ritz Carlton-Laguna Niguel Hotel, in Dana Point, CA. Management is scheduled to host a fireside chat at 1:00 p.m. PT on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 and will be available throughout the day to meet with investors attending the conference.

Portfolio managers and analysts can request a conference call with Achronix management by contacting their Roth salesperson or emailing: [email protected].

About Achronix Semiconductor Corporation

Achronix Semiconductor Corporation is a fabless semiconductor corporation based in Santa Clara, California, offering high-end FPGA-based data acceleration solutions, designed to address high-performance, compute-intensive and real-time processing applications. Achronix is the only supplier to have both high-performance and high-density standalone FPGAs and licensed eFPGA IP solutions. Achronix Speedster7t FPGA and Speedcore eFPGA IP offerings are further enhanced by ready-to-use VectorPath accelerator cards targeting AI, machine learning, networking and data center applications. All Achronix products are fully supported by the Achronix Tool Suite, which enables customers to quickly develop their own custom applications.

Achronix has a global footprint, with sales and design teams across the U.S., Europe and Asia. For more information, please visit www.achronix.com.

Follow Achronix

Website: www.achronix.com

The Achronix Blog: /blogs/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Achronixcorp

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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AchronixCorp

Achronix and Speedster are registered trademarks, and Speedcore and Speedchip are trademarks of Achronix Semiconductor Corporation. All other brands, product names and marks are the property of their respective owners.

Contact

Joel Achramowicz, Managing Director

Shelton Group

T: 415-845-9964

[email protected]

SOURCE Achronix
CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global AI in computer vision market is expected to be valued at USD 17.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 45.7 billion by 2028; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 21.5% from 2023 to 2028 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. Advancements in deep learning algorithms increased data availability, faster and cheaper computing power, and advancements in hardware technology like GPU and TPU are the driving factors of the market.

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Several trends and disruptions are impacting customer businesses in Al computer vision; advancements in deep learning; deep learning is a subfield of machine learning that has revolutionized the field of Al computer vision. With the development of deep learning algorithms and the availability of large datasets, Al computer vision is becoming increasingly accurate and effective. Increased use of edge computing is a distributed computing paradigm that involves processing data close to the source of data rather than sending it to a central location for processing. This trend is becoming increasingly popular in Al computer vision as it enables real-time processing and reduces latency. With the growing popularity of Al computer vision, there is increasing competition in the market. Companies seek ways to differentiate their offerings and stand out by offering innovative and unique solutions.

Increasing use of AI computer vision in autonomous systems

The increasing use of AI computer vision in autonomous systems, such as self-driving cars, drones, and robots, leads to new and innovative applications. This is because AI computer vision technology allows these systems to perceive and understand their environments, making it possible for them to make decisions and act accordingly. AI computer vision is a critical component in the development of self-driving cars. AI algorithms can be used to process the data from cameras and sensors installed in the car to identify objects, such as pedestrians, other vehicles, road signs, and traffic signals, in real-time. This allows the car to make decisions on how to react to its environment and drive safely without the need for human intervention.

GPU is expected to hold the highest CAGR for the hardware segment during the forecast period.

In the consumer market, graphic processing units (GPUs) are widely used in computing systems. These processors are preferred over central processing units (CPUs), as the former can handle a more complex set of data with greater efficiency. Graphic processing units (GPUs) are mainly used for 3D applications, such as computer games and 3D authorizing software. The major companies that provide processors are NVIDIA (US), Qualcomm (US), and Intel (US). In real-time, Nvidia GPUs are used in industrial inspection systems to process and analyze image data from cameras and other sensors. Several companies in the industrial inspection space use Nvidias Jetson platform to perform AI vision tasks such as image classification, image segmentation, object detection, and more. In NVIDIA Jetson 256-core, NVIDIA Pascal GPU architecture with 256 NVIDIA CUDA cores is used for high scalability and performance.

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AI in the computer vision market in North America to hold the highest market share during the forecast period

Startups in the US are receiving funds from various organizations to research AI technology, which finds applications in autonomous drones and other aerial vehicles. The countrys primary focus is to overcome reliability, safety, and autonomy challenges faced by industrial drones. Thus, companies have developed solutions that combine computer vision and deep learning algorithms to identify potential hazards and increase the endurance of industrial drones. Additionally, universities and research institutions in the US also have strong computer vision programs and are actively contributing to the development of the field.

NVIDIA Corporation (US), Intel Corporation (US), Microsoft (US), IBM Corporation (US), Qualcomm Technologies Inc. (US), Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (US), Alphabet, Inc. (US), Amazon (US), Basler AG (Germany), Hailo (US), and Groq, Inc. (US). The other company profiles included in the scope are Sighthound, Inc. (US), Neurala, Inc. (US), Datagen (Israel), Graphcore (UK), Groopic (US), Ultraleap (US), Algolux (US), Athena Security (US), Snorkel AI (US), Vizseek (US), Robotic Vision Technologies (US), AMP Robotics (US), CureMetrix (US), and Creative Virtual (UK) are among the many players in the AI in computer vision market.

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WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- King & Spalding announced today that Alicia O'Brien has rejoined the firm as a partner on the Special Matters and Government Investigations team in Washington, D.C.

Alicia OBrien

O'Brien returns to the firm from the White House Counsel's Office, which she joined in 2021. In her role as Senior Counsel and Special Assistant to President Biden, she led the office's Ethics and Compliance Team, providing legal and strategic communications advice to senior officials throughout the Executive Office of the President, Cabinet and agency leadership on issues ranging from government ethics standards and related investigations to executive branch nominations.

Prior to originally joining King & Spalding in 2019, O'Brien served in the U.S. Department of Justice as an Associate Deputy Attorney General in the Office of the Deputy Attorney General and as a Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Legislative Affairs. In these capacities, she advised DOJ leadership on complex, sensitive matters and managed the Department's responses to congressional oversight hearings and investigations, as well as parallel inquiries by inspectors general and other federal agencies.

In her return to King & Spalding, O'Brien will provide a full-service practice for clients facing government scrutiny, including high-profile congressional and government investigations, crisis management, and strategic public policy advice related to investigations and risk management.

"Alicia has built a sterling reputation in White House, DOJ and private sector roles as an advisor with impeccable judgment and deep knowledge of congressional investigations and crisis management," said Mark Jensen, head of the firm's Special Matters and Government Investigations team. "Her impressive experience will benefit a wide range of clients, from established companies responding to government investigations to start-ups just launching their initial compliance programs. Alicia is a natural leader, mentor and team player, and we're thrilled to welcome her back."

"I deeply enjoyed my previous time at King & Spalding and was drawn back by its world-class platform of clients and well-known culture of collaboration," O'Brien said. "I'm excited to return to private practice and again work with exceptionally talented colleagues and friends in continuing to help our clients navigate the significant risk and public scrutiny that congressional inquiries and parallel investigations pose, as well as develop crisis management and compliance approaches for clients to avoid enforcement scrutiny proactively."

O'Brien is the second addition to the firm from the White House Counsel's Office this year, following the arrival in January of counsel Justin Dews, who served as Associate Counsel there. Prior to that position, he served as Senior Counsel in the Counsel's Office of New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy. Their high-level government experience adds to the depth of substantial knowledge that makes the firm well situated to assist clients facing a broad range of government investigations, enforcement matters, and policy and regulatory issues.

O'Brien earned her J.D. from American University Washington College of Law and her undergraduate degree from University of Maryland at College Park.

About King & Spalding

Celebrating more than 130 years of service, King & Spalding is an international law firm that represents a broad array of clients, including half of the Fortune Global 100, with 1,300 lawyers in 23 offices in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The firm has handled matters in over 160 countries on six continents and is consistently recognized for the results it obtains, uncompromising commitment to quality, and dedication to understanding the business and culture of its clients. More information is available at www.kslaw.com.

SOURCE K&S
Switzerland Demonstrate An Interest In Commercial Aerospace

HONG KONG, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mr. Paul Chan, the Financial Secretary attended the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Switzerland in the middle of last month and met with several political and business leaders. He elaborated Hong Kong's latest development, systemic strengths and bright prospects to the attendees. It's no doubt that Hong Kong enjoys unique access channels for cross-border portfolio investment flows to and from China, which attracts global enterprises to increase investment and expand the scale of operations in Hong Kong. Less than a month after the WEF, Mr. Jurg Burri, Ambassador of Switzerland to the People's Republic of China and Mr. Rolf Frei, Consul General at Consulate General of Switzerland in Hong Kong responded the Financial Secretary with actions.

Mr. Jurg Burri and Mr. Rolf and others visited the EMC testing laboratory under construction in the Hong Kong Satellite Manufacturing Center

On 22 February 2023, the two visited Hong Kong Aerospace Technology Group Limited (HKATG; 01725. HK) headquarters, the Satellite Manufacturing Center and the Satellite Operation Control and Application Center located at the 2/F and 8/F AMC, to gain an in-depth understanding of the development of commercial aerospace in Hong Kong.

Co-Chairman and CEO Mr. Sun FengQuan, together with Non-Executive Director Dr. Daniel Yip, as well as the Senior Advisor of HKATG CEO Office and the Director of International Partnerships Division, met with the Ambassador of Switzerland to the PRC and Consul General at Consulate General of Switzerland in Hong Kong yesterday. Upon their arrival, Mr. Jurg Burri and Mr. Rolf Frei first had a meeting with Mr. Sun FengQuan to learn about the "Smart Manufacturing" which focuses on Hong Kong's re-industrialization, as well as the "Golden Bauhinia Constellation" series remote sensing satellite technology in miniaturization, high-speed data transmission, and zero-momentum control. The Ambassador of Switzerland to the PRC was glad to see the potential cooperation between HKATG and a number of Swiss commercial aerospace companies, he also expressed his strong interest in the development of Hong Kong's re-industrialization and would like to strengthen partnership and collaboration between Swiss enterprises and HKATG. After the meeting, the two visited the Satellite Manufacturing Center, and the Satellite Operation Control and Application Center located, respectively, and learned more about the "Golden Bauhinia Constellation" satellite in agricultural and forestry protection and water pollution monitoring , smart city and other fields of application.

Actively develop multinational Cooperation

Co-Chairman and CEO Mr. Sun FengQuan gave a brief introduction to Mr. Jurg Burri and Mr. Rolf Frei about the mass production of the Hong Kong satellite manufacturing center. Once it's in the full swing, it can meet the requirements of the multi-variety, variable batch, and flexible production of small satellites; the Satellite Manufacturing Center also plays a role in satellite design and manufacturing collaboration, supply chain intelligent management, electromechanical thermal control, automated testing, intelligent testing, refined quality control and other capabilities. Mr. Jurg Burri and Mr. Rolf Frei were quite pleasantly surprised by this, and also affirmed the Group's strength in the field of commercial aerospace.

HKATG, which is actively expanding its business scope, has been promoting cooperation with various countries since it signed a cooperation memorandum of understanding with the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organization (APSCO)last year, striving to establish international business links. It is known that the group is currently actively discussing cooperation plans with three Swiss companies on the operation of a nano-satellite Internet of Things network, the combination of launch vehicle structure and artificial intelligence, satellites, drones and aviation data, including the Swiss federal government which employs over 1,700 employees at 12 locations in 6 countries.

If the two parties implement the cooperation, the business layout of Hong Kong Aerospace Science and HKATG will span Europe and Asia.

It is unknown whether it is driven by the group's stable fundamentals and positive business prospects. HKATG's stock price has doubled since the beginning of the year, with an intraday year-to-date growth of up to 180%. Since the group was included in the Hong Kong Stock Connect, it has been very popular with Southbound money. On 15 February, investors from the Mainland increased their holdings by 3.7518 million shares, As of the close of the day, Hong Kong Stock Connect holds a total of 82.9456 million shares of HKATG, accounting for 26.84% of the outstanding shares.

SOURCE Hong Kong Aerospace Technology Group
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Angeion Group, the leading provider of settlement administration and legal notice services, today continues executive expansion by formally announcing the appointment of Eric Eckhardt as Chief Revenue Officer. Mr. Eckhardt will be responsible for driving sustainable growth and aligning organizational structures to support clients, claimants, and other stakeholders. He will report directly to Steven Weisbrot, Esq., Angeion President and Chief Executive Officer.

"Eric has the unique ability to not only see the big picture, but to help shape it, while aligning a myriad of interconnected details." Said Weisbrot. "Moreover," Weisbrot continued, "Eric's unique ability to deeply understand the technical details of complex processes and to help educate our clients on those details, in laymen's terms, makes him an essential part of Angeion's revenue growth trajectory."

In accepting this position, Mr. Eckhardt shares, "I am excited to be part of a team that is continuously raising the bar for Settlement Administration firms in this dynamic global market. It is clear that Angeion's focus on efficiency and transparency in settlement administration is driven by enhancing the claimant experience and better serving all parties in the legal process, which very much aligns with my skills, experience, and motivations."

About Eric Eckhardt

Eric has over 18 years of experience aligning organizations' operations, technology, and resourcing with customer-centric strategic growth and innovation initiatives. For the past 13 years, Eric's experience involves the business of law; working for legal services firms, legal technology firms, and consulting with in-house legal teams and, Class Action, and Mass Tort law firms throughout the world.

Alongside team members and clients, Eric worked to co-create solutions that broke down antiquated business practices and applied technology and analytics insights to drive strategic growth and risk abatement  most notably data security risk.

At Angeion, Eric will drive sustainable growth and align organizational structures to support clients, claimants, and the other stakeholders in both domestic and global mass litigation, including mass torts, class actions, mass arbitration and collective redress actions in emerging jurisdictions.

Eric is a certified ISO 27001 Lead Implementer and speaks fluent English and French. He holds a bachelor's degree from University of Texas Arlington and a master's degree in Business Analytics from Syracuse University.

About Angeion Group

Angeion Group is an industry-leading provider of comprehensive settlement management and legal noticing services for class actions, mass tort and collective redress administration. Leveraging world-class technology, proven best practices, and expert consulting, Angeion delivers the services and capabilities that increase efficiency, provide accountability, and give counsel and the court peace of mind.

Media Contact:

Angeion Group

Gabriella A. Ward

Director of Marketing

(215) 563-4116

SOURCE Angeion Group
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- De Beers natural & responsibly sourced diamonds dazzled on nominees and actors Angela Bassett, Ke Huy Quan, Cara Delevingne, Li Jun Li, Hannah Einbinder, and Katherine Waterston at the 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards held at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, honoring the finest achievements of filmmaking and television.

Angela Bassett, Cara Delevingne, Li Jun Li, Ke Huy Quan, Hannah Einbinder and Katherine Waterston Shine in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

Key Huy Quan shined in a striking brooch from The Alchemist of Light high jewelry collection featuring a 2.70 carat oval fancy grey central diamond set in striking blue aluminium as he made history as the first Asian male to win a SAG award in film for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role.

Angela Bassett, nominated for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Supporting Role, was radiant in De Beers Talisman drop earrings and matching ring featuring rough and polished fancy yellow and white diamonds complementing her vibrant yellow gown.

Making her first SAG Award appearance as a nominee for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series, Cara Delevingne, shined in a necklace from The Alchemist of Light high jewelry collection, featuring a 20.57 pear shaped diamond, and matching diamond stud earrings.

Li Jun Li dazzled as she presented an award on the SAG stage wearing a shoulder-sweeping pair of De Beers' Arpeggia diamond line earrings paired with two Dew Drop diamond ear cuffs.

De Beers looks at the 29th Screen Actors Guild Awards include:

Angela Bassett in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

De Beers Talisman Diamond Drop Earrings set in 18K Yellow Gold, 21.18 carats

Yellow Gold, 21.18 carats De Beers Talisman Narrow Boule Diamond Ring set in 18K Yellow Gold, 5.66 carats

Yellow Gold, 5.66 carats De Beers Horizon Diamond Band set in 18K Yellow Gold

Cara Delevingne in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

De Beers The Alchemist of Light 'Midnight Aura' Necklace set in 18K White Gold, 74.73 carats

White Gold, 74.73 carats De Beers The Alchemist of Light 'Midnight Aura' Earrings set in 18K Black Rhodium Plated White Gold, 9.58 carats

Black Rhodium Plated White Gold, 9.58 carats De Beers Diamond Line Bracelet set in Platinum, 17.03 carats

De Beers Volute Ring set in Platinum, 6.80 carats

De Beers Adonis Rose Pear Diamond Ring set in Platinum, 5.40 carats

De Beers Emerald Diamond Eternity Band set in Platinum, 6.14 carats

De Beers Round Brilliant Diamond Eternity Band set in Platinum, 7.15 carats

Ke Huy Quan in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

De Beers The Alchemist of Light 'Ascending Shadows' Brooch set in 18K White Gold, Titanium, and Blue Aluminum, 17.08 carats

Li Jun Li in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

De Beers Arpeggia Long Diamond Earrings set in 18K White Gold, 4.68 carats

White Gold, 4.68 carats De Beers Dewdrop Single Diamond Ear Cuff set in 18K White Gold

White Gold De Beers Dewdrop Single Diamond Ear Cuff set in 18K White Gold

White Gold De Beers Arpeggia Three Line Diamond Bracelet set in 18K White Gold, 9.49 carats

White Gold, 9.49 carats De Beers Enchanted Lotus HJ Diamond Ring set in 18K White Gold, 5.87 carats

White Gold, 5.87 carats De Beers Arpeggia Three Row Diamond Ring set in 18K White Gold, 1.69 carats

Hannah Einbinder in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

De Beers Wavy Lines Diamond Necklace set in 18K White Gold, 53.08 carats.

White Gold, 53.08 carats. De Beers DB Classic Diamond Stud Earrings set in Platinum, 4.04 carats.

De Beers Round Brilliant Diamond Eternity Band set in Platinum, 2.65 carats.

De Beers Allegria Diamond Band set in Platinum, 3.70 carats.

Katherine Waterston in De Beers at the 2023 SAG Awards

De Beers Classic Pear Diamond Sleeper Earrings set in Platinum, 10.17 carats

Download images here

For further information, please contact: Kristen Trustey, [email protected]

About De Beers Jewellers

Founded in London, with a flagship store on Old Bond Street and a presence in the most exclusive locations around the world, De Beers Jewellers is the pinnacle of luxury diamond jewellery. Building on De Beers' 130 years of expertise, the House glorifies the world's most beautiful diamonds through creativity and craftsmanship in bold, distinctive designs.

De Beers is invested in ensuring all the diamonds it discovers create a lasting positive impact for people and the places where they are found. This comes with a pledge to build a better future  one that is fairer, safer, cleaner and healthier, in which communities thrive, ethical practices are maintained, and the natural environment is protected. We call this long-term commitment Building Forever.

De Beers Jewellers has 37 stores globally and ships to 15 markets via debeers.com.

SOURCE De Beers
Angiodroid today announced the successful close of its 7 million Series A financing round to strengthen international expansion through commercial partnerships and investments in salesforce, in order to make the CO2 angiography a concrete opportunity for millions of patients worldwide.

BOLOGNA, Italy, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Angiodroid S.p.A., a biomedical Italian company focused on developing and marketing the first fully automatic CO2 injector for angiographic imaging, today announced the successful closing of a 7mln financing round with institutional investors. Angiodroid is revolutionizing the angiography market thanks to its breakthrough technology, using carbon dioxide (CO2) as the only biocompatible alternative to Iodine Contrast Media with no allergic reaction and no nephrotoxicity. Today, more than 200 million of angiograms procedures are performed worldwide but circa 30% of people remain at risk of contrast-induced acute kidney injury.

Thanks to a new automatic CO2 dosing control system, Angiodroid is enabling safer angiograms with fewer side effects, providing imaging quality equal to the standard. The Angiodroid CO2 injector is patented in Europe and US, pending in China and commercialized in more than 55 countries worldwide. Those milestones have been reached in part thanks to important international commercial partnerships with primary MedTech companies (i.e. NGC Medical - Medtronic, Siemens Healthcare and Philips), bringing the 2022 Company turnover to 3 million plus.

CDP Venture Capital, by Evolution Fund, led the round alongside ALIAD (Venture Capital fund of the Air Liquide Group), and 8a+ Investment SGR. The financing round immediately allows the Company to reinforce its international commercial presence, to forge new international partnerships with leading distributors and MedTech companies and to support the development of Angiopulse, the innovative IABP console for passive conterpulsation therapy, increasing efficacy and improving the patient's stabilization process.

LCA Lex is serving as legal advisor to CDP Venture Capital SGR, Hilex as legal advisor to Angiodroid.

Following the round, the appointment of a new Board of Directors has been announced, including: Sebastiano Zannoli (CEO and founder of Angiodroid), Massimo Ceccarelli (more than 30 years in the medical device industries), Francesca Natali (Managing Director of META Ventures), Valerio Caracciolo (entrepreneur in the Technical Gas sector and General Manager of Linde AG in France and Italy), Andrea Venturelli (Cofounder, former CEO and CTO of Invatec sold to Medtronic) and Mario Scuderi (senior Partner of the Evolution Fund of CDP Venture Capital SGR).

"The result achieved today demonstrates how Italian innovation is still extremely valid and internationally recognized," said Sebastiano Zannoli, Founder and CEO at Angiodroid. "Now we are ready to reach millions of patients and help them in their medical journey. Angiodroid was born as a team and will continue to reach incredible goals thanks to the commitment that each of us puts into it every day worldwide."

"Angiodroid is an excellent example of deep tech in medical devices," said Mario Scuderi, Manager of Evolution Fund, CDP Venture Capital. "We believe in the aims to revolutionize the angiography sector by making them safer for patients, resulting in fewer side effects compared to traditional contrast agents. Furthermore, our track record in recent years, even during the pandemic, demonstrates the resilience of the team and the quality of the tech, as well as the great global market opportunity."

"ALIAD is very happy to join the Angiodroid adventure. At Air Liquide, patients are at the heart of what we do. Angiodroid' solution using CO2 injection as a means to improve the healthcare journey for patients going through Angiography is aligned with Air Liquide Healthcare vision of pursuing innovation in medical gases and services to hospitals. At ALIAD, the venture capital arm of the Air Liquide Group, we believe that innovative start-ups have a key role to play in building the future of care," said Vincent Brillault, Managing Director of ALIAD.

SOURCE Angiodroid SpA
Regional Vice Presidents Added to Support Local Teams

ATLANTA, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ApolloMD's robust growth calls for the extension of clinical leadership roles to champion our dynamic teams in the form of Regional Vice Presidents (RVPs). RVPs are clinical leaders managing a roster of facilities while supporting company operations in other areas. These leaders will work closely with the Regional and Divisional Presidents, and the operations support assigned to the geographic region.

"The need for this added clinical leadership support has become evident as we continue to grow and develop more partnerships," says Yogin Patel, ApolloMD President. "I am overjoyed to highlight and recognize these four individuals who have already proven themselves as skilled and dedicated clinical leaders and look forward to partnering with them in a new capacity."

Meet the new ApolloMD Regional Vice Presidents:

Dr. Richard T. Benson II joined ApolloMD in 2017 and immediately proved to be a dynamic leader with an inspirational vision and a knack for developing team unity. As RVP, Dr. Benson approaches this role with that same enthusiasm and continues his mission in service, now on a systems level. With a focus always on positive patient outcomes, Dr. Benson values the opportunity to grow high-functioning teams, particularly in under-resourced environments.

Dr. Benson attended the prestigious Morehouse College and Meharry Medical College, where he earned his Doctor of Medicine. He then completed an Emergency Medicine residency at the University of Chicago, followed by an EMS fellowship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Dr. Pat Capes joined the Erlanger Health System in 2018, practicing Emergency Medicine in Tennessee and Western North Carolina. As RVP, Dr. Capes recognizes the many challenges currently facing the health care industry and views this role as an opportunity to seek solutions. He believes that integrating the priorities of medical staff leadership and emergency medicine leadership can prove to be a vital element of success.

Dr. Capes completed his education in his home state of Georgia, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Oglethorpe University in Atlanta and his Doctor of Medicine from the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. His post-graduate training took him to Charlotte, N.C. for an internship and residency in Emergency Medicine at Carolinas Medical Center.

Dr. Daniel Minior has served as the Medical Director and Chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine of UNC Lenoir since 2013.Dr. Minior draws on his experience as chairman and medical director to inform his approach as RVP. He continually feels drawn to the positions that present an opportunity to function as a servant leader, giving him the chance to fix a problem and aid his team.

After earning his Doctor of Medicine degree from Tufts University in Boston, Dr. Minior moved on to New York City for an Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Hospital. Upon completing his training, he moved to North Carolina to practice Emergency Medicine. Once settled in North Carolina, Dr. Minior continued his education at Duke University Fuqua School of Business, earning his MBA in 2015.

Dr. Jeffrey Mullins has practiced at Atrium Health Union since 2013 and his attitude and acumen earned him the ApolloMD Rookie Physician of the Year Award in 2013, then moved him into position first as Medical Director within his two years of practice. He was named ApolloMD Emergency Medicine Medical Director of the Year in 2019. Dr. Mullins became the Regional Medical Director for the Charlotte area in 2018 and has served as Atrium Health System Medical Director for ApolloMD since 2020.

A native of Ohio, Dr. Mullins attended Marshall University in Huntington, W. Va., where he earned an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences and a Doctor of Medicine from the Marshall University School of Medicine. He then relocated to Columbia, S.C. for his Emergency Medicine Residency at University of South Carolina's Palmetto Health serving as Chief Resident in his third year.

About ApolloMD

ApolloMD is a fully-integrated and aligned national group practice that partners with over 100 leading healthcare institutions nationwide to provide multi-specialty physician services, including Emergency Medicine, Hospital Medicine, Anesthesia and Radiology. Emphasizing quality, efficiency, communication and patient satisfaction, ApolloMD's collaborative approach includes a performance and value-based compensation structure, physician ownership, as well as the CareHub Technology Suite which improves access to care, communication and patient engagement in a coordinated and cost-effective manner. This focus, which ApolloMD has maintained since its inception nearly 30 years ago, has allowed it to become one of the most successful and fastest-growing groups in the country. Please visit ApolloMD.com for more information.

SOURCE ApolloMD
MARLBORO, N.J., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On December 3, 2022, Artificial Medical Intelligence (AMI) celebrated 20 years of innovation in healthcare as it continues to expand its cadre of proven use cases covering the healthcare and health insurance verticals.

First conceived in 2005 as the EMscribe Computer Assisted Coding provider workflow solution for Health Information Management and Revenue Cycle Management, AMI has continued to evolve its unique real world ontology dictionaries through ongoing clinical healthcare system usage. Continued evolution of the AMI knowledge base, has employed these terminologies for use with coding systems such as ICD10, CPT, E & M, HCC Risk or ICD10 AM. AMI's foundational Pivot Grammars guide the capture of a diagnosis or procedure directly from textual documentation. AMI's proprietary rules and guideline algorithms reliably apply the continually updated policies from CMS and insurers allowing the platform to often operate in an automated yet fully auditable fashion.

The technology coding platform is available through AMI's User Interface, or through a robust interoperable Application Protocol Interface.

"Over the years, AMI's technology has fully realized the original vision of allowing all clinical documents to become both smart and connected minimizing the extra burden imposed on the already overworked system both clinically and administratively," according to Andrew B. Covit M.D., Chief Clinical Officer and C.E.O of Artificial Medical Intelligence.

Then, in 2017, AMI developed the AMI Auditor to address the burdensome costs of manually reviewing clinical documentation for the proper coding of multi-page medical record submissions to insurers for payment integrity. As part of the Auditor module, AMI has mapped over 250 clinical disease entities identifying the logical diagnostic process that clinicians follow with a greater than 97% accuracy rate. The application of AMI's clinical rule maps open the door for multiple use cases such as healthcare research and disease management, validation of diagnoses or misdiagnoses, and other forms of clinical information gathering.

Today, AMI has advanced the original AMI Auditor technology platform by presenting an audit trail that accurately locates and highlights the requisite key findings within the medical record documentation to create a unique validation reference record.

"AMI celebrates its 20 years with a real, scalable and configurable platform through a time-tested technology foundation driven by industry experience. This goes beyond the slick ideas or concepts we hear about every day. Deliverable technology without teaching, training or learning makes it unparalleled for healthcare and insurance markets now and in the future", Stuart Covit, Chief Operating Officer of AMI commented.

For more information on AMI's innovative healthcare platform, please contact:

Kerry Fagan

9089021825

[email protected]

SOURCE Artificial Medical Intelligence Inc.
Additional funding increases the total amount raised to more than $376 million and will boost global technology development and company growth

TOKYO, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Astroscale Holdings Inc. ("Astroscale"), the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term sustainability across all orbits, has closed a Series G round with more than U.S. $76 million in funding from new investors Mitsubishi Electric, Yusaku Maezawa, Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, Mitsubishi Corporation, Development Bank of Japan, and FEL Corporation.

With the closing of this round, Astroscale has raised a total of approximately U.S. $376 million since establishment, demonstrating strong investor confidence in its stability, success and market leadership in the on-orbit services sector, despite the extremely challenging global economic climate.

"We are pleased with the interest we received from our investors, which conveys a vote of confidence in Astroscale's vision and potential," said Nobu Okada, Founder & CEO of Astroscale. "On-orbit servicing is a necessary infrastructure for a sustainable and growing space economy, and the key to reducing risk and increasing returns for satellite operators. We are on a mission to make on-orbit servicing routine by 2030, and these funds will significantly contribute to further innovative technology development, global expansion and increased capacity to meet the growing demand."

"Mitsubishi Electric is working to promote the use of space in the security sector, which strongly connects with Astroscale's efforts to build a sustainable space economy for future generations," said Masahiko Arai, General Manager of the Defense Systems Division of Mitsubishi Electric. "We are excited to invest in Astroscale and looking forward to cooperate and merge our collective expertise in supporting their business strategy and development of innovative technologies."

The global economy is more dependent on satellite services than at any time in history, and this dependence is only rising. The number of space debris objects in low-Earth orbit is exponentially increasing, posing a threat to all who benefit every day from these services. These risks, and the wasted value and opportunity inherent in single-use space operations, have driven Astroscale to pioneer on-orbit services such as end-of-life removal of satellites, active debris removal, in-space situational awareness and satellite life extension.

Astroscale has a variety of missions and projects underway around the world:

Astroscale Japan is under contract with JAXA for Phase I of the Commercial Removal of Debris Demonstration Project (CRD2), which will characterize an upper stage rocket body in orbit. It was also selected as a contract partner for a technology study in Phase II of CRD2, which would involve removing a large-scale debris object from orbit.

Astroscale UK is developing an active debris removal mission, Cleaning Outer Space Missions through Innovative Capture (COSMIC), in partnership with the UK Space Agency, and plans to demonstrate the ELSA-M servicer in 2024 in partnership with OneWeb, the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency.

Astroscale U.S. and Astroscale Israel teams are global leaders in building the technology and mission plan for Life Extension services. The Astroscale U.S. team is also working with several U.S. government agencies, including the Air Force Research Laboratory and Space Force, on R&D for satellite servicing.

A previous mission, End of Life Services by Astroscale-demonstration (ELSA-d), successfully demonstrated a series of key technologies required for space debris removal in 2021 and 2022, a milestone for on-orbit servicing and an unprecedented achievement for a commercially funded mission in LEO.

To develop its services and meet increasing demand from customers, Astroscale is expanding its workforce and has opened new facilities in the UK, U.S., and Israel, with a global headquarters facility set to open in Tokyo later this year. Astroscale has been able to attract high quality talent from around the world, and its global team has grown by 63% to over 400 members since its last funding round in November 2021.

PJT Partners acted as financial advisor to Astroscale on this transaction.

About Astroscale

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations and is dedicated to on-orbit servicing across all orbits.

Founded in 2013, Astroscale is developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of on-orbit servicing, including life extension, in situ space situational awareness, end-of-life, and active debris removal, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate the growing and hazardous buildup of debris in space. Astroscale is also defining business cases and working with government and commercial stakeholders to develop norms, regulations, and incentives for the responsible use of space.

Headquartered in Japan, Astroscale has an international presence with subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel. Astroscale is a rapidly expanding venture company, working to advance safe and sustainable growth in space and solve a growing environmental concern.

Find out more about Astroscale at www.astroscale.com.

SOURCE Astroscale Holdings
Families First Celebrates 132 years of Impact

Honoree Lucy Vance and Honorary Chair Ambassador Andrew Young

and Honorary Chair Ambassador Atlanta Women's Chorus partners once again with Families First

ATLANTA, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- After sponsoring Families First at their concerts in Spring and Holiday of 2022, Atlanta Women's Chorus will again partner with Families First to perform at the Loving Legacy Gala, benefiting Families First. The performance of the Atlanta Women's Chorus will feature music to inspire guests as Families First celebrates the remarkable journeys of clients who have moved themselves and their families from crisis to thriving.

"It's an honor to partner with organizations like Families First regarding our serving families. Atlanta Women's Chorus is celebrating our 10th anniversary," said Melissa Arasi, Artistic Director, Atlanta Women's Chorus. "Last year, our chorus supported Families First by adopting families for the holidays through the Gift A Family program, and it was a huge success. Partnering makes sense because our mission is to empower people to be resilient."

Families First's new signature gala fundraiser is called Loving the Legacy. The evening will honor Lucy C. Vance and her commitment to Families First. Ambassador Andrew Young will serve as the Honorary Chair for this inaugural event to support the programs and families they serve in the Metro Atlanta area. The event will take place on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at The Atlanta History Center.

They recognize the cycles of poverty are not broken by one program or service alone so they offer a combination of services and support to build resilient families and ensure foster and underserved youth are successful and independent by young adulthood. Through their collaborations with community partners, virtual services, and locations throughout the state of Georgia, Families First has impacted youth and families by providing counseling services, health and wellness education for pregnant teens, early childhood education, life skills for youth in foster care, parenting classes, supportive housing, adoption facilitation and placement, and so much more.

"Loving the Legacy is the Families First premier annual fundraising gala. We will be celebrating our 132-year legacy-from the inception of Families First in 1890 to sharing people's incredible journeys with our gala theme of "Where are they now?" said Paula Moody, Chief Executive Officer, Families First. "As a result of their ongoing support, the Atlanta Women's Chorus was the first community partner that came to mind when we decided to highlight the inspiring tales of resiliency and achievements of families who received services and exceptional care from Families First."

The well-known Atlanta Gay Men's Chorus and the Atlanta Women's Chorus comprise the Southeast's largest community music group. Voices of Note, the non-profit group that governs the choruses, is a force for societal change. Each chorus performs three concerts annually and is known for its great music and commitment to promoting resilience. Voices of Note believes music is the best way to spread the message of resilience. They are changing hearts and minds through music.

To purchase tickets and learn more, please visit www.familiesfirst.org/get-involved/loving-the-legacy

Event Details:

What: Loving the Legacy Gala Fundraiser

When: Thursday, March 30th, 2023 at 6 p.m.  9 p.m.

Where: The Atlanta History Center | 130 W Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

Media RSVP and Interview Inquiries: Chris Armond / House of Heralds PR - [email protected]

Media Contact:

Christopher Armond T.W.

House of Heralds PR

[email protected]

About Families First

Founded in 1890, Families First's mission is to improve the outcomes for families who have complex challenges by helping them strengthen their resiliency, connecting them to internal Families First programs including mental health, navigator, parenting education, teenage pregnancy and parenting and adoption support services as well as linkages to external services via its community partnerships.

About the Atlanta Gay Men's Chorus, Atlanta Women's Chorus, and Voices of Note

Voices of Note, the not-for-profit organization governing our choruses, is a catalyst for social change. The renowned Atlanta Gay Men's Chorus and Atlanta Women's Chorus comprise the largest community music organization in the Southeast. Each chorus presents three annual concert experiences defined by musical excellence and a commitment to promoting equality for all people. It provides an opportunity to be inspired, a journey to places in hearts and minds that have yet to be explored, and a voyage into the perspective of our neighbors, teachers, siblings and friends. Above all, Voices of Note believes that the most effective way to deliver the message of equality for all people is with music. Through music, we are changing hearts and minds.

SOURCE Voices of Note
TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AutoInsurance.org recently released its list of the 12 most significant factors that affect auto insurance . While most people aren't surprised to read that a driver's history of accidents and traffic violations made the list, many did expect to see that credit score matters as much as it does.

According to the report, a low credit score could result in up to 60% higher car insurance rates. With that much at stake, insurance policyholders should look for ways to improve their credit.

According to AutoInsurance.org, a low credit score could result in up to 60% higher car insurance rates. Tweet this

Melanie Musson, a nationally recognized car insurance expert with AutoInsurance.org , shares, "It's unlikely an insurer will run a policyholder's credit once their policy is established. Since credit score significantly impacts rates, the policyholder should request an updated credit report check."

The practice of relying on credit reports to determine auto insurance premiums is controversial. Insurance providers point to the statistical connection between lower credit scores and an increased risk of claims filing. Still, several states have legislation banning or restricting insurers from using credit scores for assessing risk.

In addition to credit score, AutoInsurance.org lists the following factors as contributing to insurance premiums:

State requirements

Policyholder age

Vehicle make and model

High-risk traffic violations

Driving record

Marital status

Gender

Annual mileage

Driving experience

Location

Driving history

Some other factors in this list are as controversial as credit scores. And one of those is location. Insurance companies using location to calculate rates have prompted opponents to accuse insurers of discriminating against policyholders in specific neighborhoods.

Insurers have a reason for this practice, though. Individuals who live in areas of high traffic and high crime have a greater risk of being involved in an accident or having their vehicle vandalized or stolen. Insurers couldn't stay solvent if they didn't accurately analyze their risk when underwriting policies.

AutoInsurance.org provides tips for reducing auto insurance costs, no matter the individual's risk level. Those tips include the following:

Check for discounts

Opt for lower coverage levels

Raise the deductible

Reduce annual mileage

Shop for new coverage

Read AutoInsurance.org's entire report here: Factors That Affect Auto Insurance Rates (2023) .

SOURCE AutoInsurance.org
Intellias is a global smart-mobility consulting and software engineering supplier helping the world's leading brands make a difference with technology

DETROIT, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Intellias, a leading global provider of software development services for the automotive, transportation and related mobility industries, has selected AutoCom Associates as its public relations agency of record in North America.

Headquartered in the Ukraine, Intellias is a global company with offices in the United States, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Croatia, Bulgaria, Malta, India, Saudi Arabia, UAE and the UK. The company's mobility customers include leading original equipment manufacturers and their Tier One suppliers, as well as transportation and mobility suppliers such as LG Electronics, DKV, Connex2X and HERE Technologies.

For more than 20 years, the company has been digitally transforming businesses to deliver navigation software today used in nearly 180 million vehicles from 10 global car brands while reducing CO2 emissions for 250,000 fleet owners and digitally analyzing traffic flow on more than 60,000 roadways around the world.

Intellias recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, showcasing its software expertise in connectivity, digital cockpit development, cloud platforms and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) at CES 2023. The company plans to be an exhibitor and presenter at other major U.S. technology conferences throughout the coming year.

"The company has forged major partnerships with industry groups such as AUTOSAR and COVESA (Connected Vehicle Systems Alliance), as well as with Connex2X for aftermarket applications and WattEV for commercial vehicles," noted AutoCom President Larry Weis. "We're looking forward to working with Intellias as they expand their partnership networks in the United States and Europe.

"The smart-mobility technologies that Intellias is developing will be of particular interest to the growing number of media outlets in North America that cover electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, connectivity, infotainment and related next-generation mobility systems."

Founded in 1995, AutoCom Associates provides public relations services and counsel to businesses working in the global automotive industry. The agency is a member of the Automotive Press Association and the Society of Automotive Analysts.

Located in the Detroit suburb of Bloomfield Hills, the firm also is a member of Automotive PR, an international network of public relations agencies in more than 33 major markets around the world. For Intellias, AutoCom will be working in partnership with about:communication, an Automotive PR group member in Germany.

Additional information about Intellias is available at www.intellias.com. More information about AutoCom Associates can be found at www.usautocom.com.

About Intellias

Intellias is a global technology partner with 20 years of experience delivering product engineering and consulting services to Fortune 500 companies. Leading automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, transportation and mobility service providers, including HERE Technologies, Elmos, NNG, DKV, and Rand McNally, rely on Intellias to co-create custom solutions and digitally transform their businesses.

Intellias helps partners and clients navigate in the ever-changing mobility landscape with its deep expertise in connectivity, autonomous driving, infotainment systems, eMobility, transport operations and intelligent fleet analytics. We empower future mobility gathering under one umbrella with decades of experience delivering automotive and transportation solutions compliant with NDS, ASPICE, and TISAX. Intellias contributes to establishing the highest industry standards by partnering with COVESA, Renesas, and AUTOSAR.

SOURCE AutoCom Associates
NOIDA, India, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new report published by UnivDatos Markets Insights, the Automotive Body Control Module Market was valued at more than USD 2.4 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 3% from 2022-2028. The analysis has been segmented into Type (CAN and LIN); Vehicle Type (Passenger Car, Commercial Vehicle, and Electric Vehicle); Application (Interior and Exterior); Region/Country.

Click here to view the Report Description & TOC

https://univdatos.com/report/automotive-body-control-module-market/

The automotive body control module 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 automotive body control module market. The automotive body control module 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 automotive body control module market at the global and regional levels.

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Market Overview

Global Automotive Body Control Module Market is expected to grow at a significant rate of around 3% during the forecast period. Automotive body control module functions as a brain that controls different ECUs by sending and receiving signals through vehicles. It controls the multiple electrical functions of the vehicle to provide better safety and security to the vehicles. Additionally, strict government restrictions regarding carbon dioxide emissions and road safety, rising consumer expectations, expanding R&D in manufacturing organizations, and competition between key players to build superior electronic-equipped vehicles are also factors driving the growth of the market. For instance, July 2019, Denso Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation jointly established a Joint Venture for R&D of next gen in-vehicles semiconductors.

Factors such as an increasing demand for electric vehicle, hybrid vehicles and increasing demand for advanced technology to enhance the safety of the vehicle are driving the growth of the markets

Some of the major players operating in the market include Continental AG, Aptiv, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Robert Bosch GmbH, Denso Corporation, HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, Mouser Electronics, Inc, Infineon Technologies AG, Harman International, and Tata Elxsi

COVID-19 Impact

The recent covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the world and has brought a state of shock to the global economy. During the pandemic everything was under restrictions like travelling, import and export, production and sales of units, which in turns disrupted the market and done a negative impact on the growth of the market.

The global automotive body control module market report is studied thoroughly with several aspects that would help stakeholders in making their decisions more curated.

Based on type, the market is segmented into Controller Area Network (CAN) and Local Interconnect Network (LIN). The LIN segment to hold a significant share of the market in 2020. It is used for communication between components in vehicles. Moreover, the LIN is less complex and ease to operate, helps to reduce vehicle weight, having lower total cost of ownership, and increased fuel efficiency are the driving factors of the segment.

Based on vehicle type, the market is categorized into passenger cars, commercial vehicle, and electric vehicle. Among these, the commercial vehicle held a significant share in the market in 2020. This is mainly due to the growth of commercial units which require advanced vehicles with power steering system, anti-lock braking system, climate control system and others. All these factors fuel the demand of the market. For instance, the overall Commercial Vehicles sales increased from 568,559 to 716,566 units. Sales of Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles increased from 160,688 to 240,577 units and Light Commercial Vehicles increased from 407,871 to 475,989 units in April 2021 to March 2022 compared to the previous year

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Automotive Body Control Module 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

APAC is anticipated to grow at a substantial CAGR during the forecast period due to the rising demand for vehicles in these countries, Asia Pacific is witnessing high economic growth. Due to its extensive production of passenger cars, higher rate of adoption of cutting-edge technologies than other countries, and growing purchasing power of customers, the Asia Pacific region is home to the greatest market for body control module. For instance, according to Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, around 3,650,698 passenger vehicles were manufactured in 2021-22

The major players targeting the market include

Continental AG

Aptiv

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

Robert Bosch GmbH

Denso Corporation

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA

Mouser Electronics, Inc.

Infineon Technologies AG

Harman International

Tata Elxsi

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 Automotive Body Control Module 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 automotive body control module market?

Which factors are influencing the automotive body control module market over the forecast period?

What are the global challenges, threats, and risks in the automotive body control module market?

Which factors are propelling and restraining the automotive body control module market?

What are the demanding global regions of the automotive body control module 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.

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Automotive Body Control Module Market Report Coverage

Report Attribute Details Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2028 Growth momentum Accelerate at a CAGR of over 3% Market size 2021 USD 2.4 billion Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Rest of World Major contributing region APAC to Dominate the Global Automotive Body Control Module Market Key countries covered United States, Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, France, China, Japan, India, and Australia Companies profiled Continental AG, Aptiv, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Robert Bosch GmbH, Denso Corporation, HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA, Mouser Electronics, Inc, Infineon Technologies AG, Harman International, and Tata Elxsi 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 Type; By Vehicle Type; By Application; By Region/Country

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SOURCE UnivDatos Market Insights Pvt. Ltd.
MIAMI, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Banesco USA, an independent Florida state-chartered bank headquartered in East Doral, announces the expansion to the Palm Beach market as an integral step in the execution of its corporate growth strategies. The Palm Beach target market includes commercial real estate and middle-market business clients, as well as business executives and professionals. Longer term plans include delivering a premier banking experience with a full-service branch.

Five seasoned and experienced bankers, bringing more than 25 years of banking experience serving Palm Beach, most recent with Professional Bank, include:

Rolando Valdivieso leads the new group as Senior Vice President, reporting to Nelson Hildalgo , Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Banking. Valdivieso has been in the local banking industry for more than 13 years serving in Vice President roles providing financial solutions to South Florida businesses and high-net-worth individuals.





leads the new group as Senior Vice President, reporting to , Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Banking. Valdivieso has been in the local banking industry for more than 13 years serving in Vice President roles providing financial solutions to businesses and high-net-worth individuals. Keith Douglass joins as Vice President and Relationship Manager. Douglass brings years of experience in Private Banking and Commercial Lending.





joins as Vice President and Relationship Manager. Douglass brings years of experience in Private Banking and Commercial Lending. Travis Fitzpatrick joins as Vice President and Relationship Manager. Fitzpatrick also brings years of experience, servicing commercial relationships.

"Palm Beach is a growing expanding community; a great fit of Banesco USA's strategic target markets. It's an incredible opportunity to provide our comprehensive portfolio of banking and lending solutions as well as our relationship-driven value proposition to capitalize on present day market needs," said Calixto (Cali) Garcia-Velez, President & CEO of Banesco USA. "We are confident this team with extensive roots in Palm Beach will accelerate our growth in the region."

Last month, Banesco USA announced a 40 percent increase in assets during 2022 to reach to $3 billion. As of December 31, 2022, total loans represented 78 percent of total assets and loan growth was $725 million or 45 percent during the twelve-month period. Banesco USA's balance sheet growth contributed to an increase in financial margin and net income of $23 million, the highest in the bank's 16-year history.

For more information, visit BanescoUSA.com or contact us at (786) 552-0524.

About Banesco USA

Founded in 2006 and based in Miami, Banesco USA is an independent Florida state-chartered bank with $3 billion in assets as of December 31, 2022 and six locations between South Florida and Puerto Rico. Banesco USA is proud to serve the commercial real estate sector, small and middle-market businesses, as well as professionals who work in the community. The bank services both domestic and international clients as well as operating companies with a suite of products and services delivered with personalized attention to support their financial journeys.

Media Contacts:

Jessica Wade Pfeffer | 305-804-8424 | [email protected]

Tyler Sminkey | 786-390-8510 | [email protected]

SOURCE Banesco USA
MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Black people are receiving medications for dementia less often than white people, according to a preliminary study released February 26, 2023, that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 75th Annual Meeting being held in person in Boston and live online from April 22-27, 2023.

"Previous research has shown that due to racial disparities, people with dementia do not always receive the same access to medications that may be beneficial in nursing homes and hospitals," said Alice Hawkins, MD, of Mount Sinai in New York, New York, and a member of the American Academy of Neurology. "However, there is limited data for the use of dementia medications that people take at home. Our study found disparities in this area as well. We hope our findings lead to a better understanding of these disparities so that steps can be taken to eliminate this health inequity."

The study involved 25,930 people. Of this group, 3,655 were Black and 12,885 were white. Researchers collected information on the participants including asking them about race and outpatient medications.

Researchers looked at how often participants received one or more of five medication classes typically prescribed for dementia. Cholinesterase inhibitors prevent the breakdown of a chemical messenger in the brain called acetylcholine, which is important for memory and thought. People with dementia may also use N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists, which can help cognitive function. Both drug classes help facilitate communication between nerve cells. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are common antidepressants, antipsychotics treat psychosis and benzodiazepines can be used to treat anxiety and agitation.

Researchers found that Black people with dementia received all five medication types less often than white people.

For cholinesterase inhibitors, 20% of Black people received a prescription compared to 30% of white people. For NMDA antagonists, the numbers were 10% for Black people and 17% for white people. For SSRIs, the numbers were 24% and 40%. For antipsychotics, the numbers were 18% and 22%. For benzodiazepines, the numbers were 18% and 37%.

The differences remained after researchers controlled for factors such as age, sex, and insurance type.

"Black people who saw a neurologist were receiving cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA antagonists at rates more comparable to white people," said Hawkins. "Therefore, referrals to specialists such as neurologists may decrease the disparities for these prescriptions."

A limitation of the study was that the data relied on what was present in participants' medical records. Another limitation is that data on the actual prescription behavior of physicians could not be reliably collected. Therefore, Hawkins said it remains unclear how much of the observed disparity is due to physicians prescribing fewer medications to Black people versus other patient-related factors, such as inability to afford medications.

Hawkins noted, "More research is needed to understand the root cause of such disparities and design programs to eliminate them."

The study was supported by the American Academy of Neurology Resident Research Scholarship, which was awarded to Hawkins.

Learn more about dementia at BrainandLife.org, home of the American Academy of Neurology's free patient and caregiver magazine focused on the intersection of neurologic disease and brain health. Follow Brain & Life on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

When posting to social media channels about this research, we encourage you to use the American Academy of Neurology's Annual Meeting hashtag #AANAM.

The American Academy of Neurology is the world's largest association of neurologists and neuroscience professionals, with over 38,000 members. The AAN is dedicated to promoting the highest quality patient-centered neurologic care. A neurologist is a doctor with specialized training in diagnosing, treating and managing disorders of the brain and nervous system such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke, migraine, multiple sclerosis, concussion, Parkinson's disease and epilepsy.

For more information about the American Academy of Neurology, visit AAN.com or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

SOURCE American Academy of Neurology
SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --EMURGO Group Pte. Ltd. ("EMURGO") - The official commercial arm and a founding member of the Cardano blockchain, EMURGO, and its regional entity, EMURGO Middle East & Africa ("EMURGO MEA"), today announced its strategic investment and partnership with Goodwall , a skills-based social network for young talent to connect to learning and earning opportunities. Goodwall is exploring how blockchain can support its mission to level the playing field for youth everywhere.

EMURGO

EMURGO and EMURGO MEA's investment will support Goodwall's sustainable growth into a Web3 service leveraging Cardano's environmentally-friendly blockchain by:

Driving youth awareness of Cardano through joint education initiatives

of Cardano through joint education initiatives Providing curated Web3 skills programs for youth to build on Cardano

for youth to build on Cardano Connecting Goodwall's global skilled talent pool to micro-financial services , micropayments for work opportunities, P2P transactions , scholarships , and more via Goodwall's in-app Web3 wallet

, for work opportunities, , , and more via Goodwall's in-app Web3 wallet Enhancing transparency and accountability through on-chain skills certifications and NFT skill badges for youth to utilize for work and educational opportunities

and for youth to utilize for work and educational opportunities Implementing decentralized identifiers to strengthen trust and authenticity and for future on-chain voting initiatives in its app

to strengthen trust and authenticity and for future initiatives in its app Bridging Goodwall's talented youth community and the global Cardano community to exchange ideas, information, and resources

Goodwall is the skills-based social network for Gen Z. Today, it serves and supports 2m+ talent in 150+ countries on their learning and earning journeys. Goodwall helps youth showcase their skills on a digital profile, strengthen their skills by taking part in social challenges, and access skills-based opportunities. To help fuel its growth and nurture its talent pool, Goodwall is building a strong ecosystem of partners aligned with its values, including UNICEF, Randstad, and SAP.

"The Cardano blockchain and its growing ecosystem of Web3 products and services seek to provide essential services to those that have been overlooked and most in need. EMURGO believes these values mutually align with Goodwall's mission to connect talented young people with opportunities for better education, work, scholarships, financial assistance, and more," said EMURGO CEO Ken Kodama.

"Web3 presents a unique opportunity. From facilitating cross-border micropayments and powering a skills-based global economy to certifying the progress of a learner's journey in a distributed public and verifiable ledger, we're exploring how blockchain can help make the future of work, work for everyone. We are excited to have found a strategic partner in EMURGO to guide us in seizing this opportunity to level the playing field and bank the unbanked," said Goodwall co-founder and COO, Omar Bawa.

According to the World Economic Forum, young Africans are expected to constitute 42% of global youth by 2030 and there are concerns about how to equip them for an increasingly evolving knowledge economy. This highlights the need for services that can bridge a rapidly growing youth population with the right opportunities for education and jobs that fit their skill sets.

About EMURGO

EMURGO is the official commercial arm of Cardano and provides socially impactful solutions to solve some of the most intricate problems of organizations. As a founding entity of the Cardano protocol, EMURGO is able to leverage its abilities for large-scale blockchain development and rapid solutions deployment to benefit its global clients. To connect and learn more, visit https://emurgo.io .

For more information:

Albert Kim

Global PR Manager

[email protected]

+65 6978 5823

About Goodwall

Goodwall is a skills-based social platform for young talent to learn and earn. With more than 2 million members in 150+ countries, Goodwall supports the next generation in developing and demonstrating their skills and connects them to opportunities and better livelihoods. Goodwall is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, with a global team across 4 continents. To find out more, visit https://www.goodwall.io .

For more information:

Nadia Levinson Young

Communications Lead

[email protected]

SOURCE EMURGO
To support the next generation of Web3 innovators

SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Blockchain Founders Fund (BFF) announced the final close of its Fund II with participation from key investors, family offices and institutions in the industry including Polygon , Ripple , Octava , NEO Global Capital (NGC) , Appworks , Sebastien Borget COO of The Sandbox, GSR , LD Capital , Metavest Capital , and more. BFF's Fund II aims to support high growth potential pre-seed and seed stage Web3 and blockchain startups.

Blockchain Founders Fund Announces Final Close of Its 75M Fund

The firm announced its principal close of BFF Fund II early last year. BFF is one of the leading venture capital funds in the industry, with a focus on supporting high potential early stage (pre-seed and seed) startups that redefine and streamline the mass adoption of Web3 and blockchain technology.

Aly Madhavji , Managing Partner at Blockchain Founders Fund said, "We are honored and grateful for the support Blockchain Founders Fund has received from top institutions and industry leaders. Through our collaborations with the most innovative startups in the Web3 ecosystem, we have made significant investments that have already started to reshape industries. As we close this fund, we remain committed to supporting the next generation of visionary entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of Web3 and blockchain technologies. Together, we can build a more decentralized, transparent, and equitable world."

Currently, BFF has invested in over 100 startups including Altered State Machine , Splinterlands , GRID , Krayon and Magna . Despite the bear market BFF continues to be amongst the most active Web3 investors, making 50 investments in the past 12 months. The team works extremely closely with portfolio founders through its venture program that provides execution focused support across business functions including marketing, growth hacking, tokenomics, fundraising, and more to accelerate and drive success.

BFF has also built a global collective of more than 350+ executive advisors in its Expert Network, which provides a comprehensive and exciting environment for portfolio companies to collaborate with leading investors and industry experts, including business advisors, entrepreneurs, mentors and blockchain thought-leaders. The network connects its members to a wide range of resources and helps them establish meaningful relationships in the blockchain space.

Mansoor Madhavji , Partner at Blockchain Founders Fund said, "Building meaningful relationships is at the core of what we do as a company and we take great pride in creating an environment built on mutual respect, shared goals and supporting each other's success. We are thrilled to be closing our Fund II and to be continuing our journey of investing in great founders."

Tobias Bauer, Partner at Blockchain Founders Fund said, "I am very excited to continue working closely with our portfolio companies and support them with all necessary tools to become a leader in the space. Our firm has diligently accumulated a comprehensive set of resources and tools over the course of four years to provide the best possible environment for companies to succeed."

The successful close of BFF Fund II marks a milestone for Blockchain Founders Fund. Since the fund's launch in 2018, BFF has had the privilege to partner with some of the most innovative startups in Web3 landscape and has made significant investments. As the firm looks ahead, it is eager to expand its footprint globally, further solidifying its commitment to shaping the future of Web3 and blockchain technologies.

About Blockchain Founders Fund

Blockchain Founders Fund is a leading early stage (seed and pre-seed) Web3 Venture Capital fund which invests in top-tier founders globally. Our backers include a strategic mix of the leading firms in the crypto and traditional finance world.

We invest in highly-promising startups taking a go-to-market focus and a hands-on approach to drive value. BFF helps curate strategic partnerships, hire talent, accelerate growth and ensure portfolio founders are well capitalized. Our team is comprised of builders and operators that have scaled many of the leading Blockchain startups and are on a mission to support all-star teams shaping the Web3 industry.

SOURCE Blockchain Founders Fund
PLEASANTON, Calif., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Blume Global, the only supply chain orchestration platform uniting order orchestration, multimodal transportation management, end-to-end visibility and supplier relationship management, is integrating with BasicBlock , a leading financial technology company reshaping financing options for the trucking industry. The integration allows Blume Global's network of trucking customers to use BasicBlock for freight factoring services at their disposal through Blume's online platform.

Launched in 2018, BasicBlock, a startup accelerated by ZEBOX, has evolved from a simple trucking document capture tool to becoming a leading freight factoring company that has become a complete payment platform for trucking companies nationwide. Extending BasicBlocks' services to Blume's network will help trucking customers of any size, including companies with small fleets expand their cash flow, revenue as well as ensuring drivers are paid on time, every time.

Blume Global and BasicBlock were matched as a result of ZEBOX , initiated in 2018 by Rodolphe Saade, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group, a global player in sea, land, air and logistics solutions. ZEBOX facilitates the development of sustainable solutions by bringing together the world's most innovative startups, industry leaders and ecosystem experts in supply chain, logistics, transport, and energy.

"Blume Global is dedicated to making technology accessible to every player in the supply chain, and the strategic partnership with BasicBlock aligns with that mission," said Pervinder Johar, CEO of Blume Global. "ZEBOX is creating an environment for collaboration that is fostering change, and that is reflected in our integration with BasicBlock. We are proud to share a passion in creating sustainable innovation in the supply chain, logistics and mobility spaces and be a part of their roster of North American corporate partners."

"ZEBOX is excelling in its goal to expand its American footprint to fund innovative startups in the logistics space on a global scale," said Charley Dehoney, Vice-President of ZEBOX America. "With Blume Global's success as a leader in the supply chain technology realm, the expertise they can share with ZEBOX's network of startups is invaluable and testament to the power of collaboration."

About Blume Global

Blume Global is a multimodal supply chain orchestration platform that unites end-to-end visibility, supplier management and logistics execution. As the single source of truth for logistics data, Blume provides visibility throughout the value chain, from sourcing to delivery, allowing customers to use Blume solutions to navigate disruptions and create agile plans amid supply chain uncertainty. Blume has the most extensive network among logistics technology providers. The company's direct connectivity to the ocean, air, rail, parcel, LTL and truckload carriers combines with Blume's solutions and 28 years of industry data to maximize transportation spend, improve customer service and reduce carbon emissions for users. By developing technology that streamlines the logistics world, Blume Global is leading the industry in creating supply chain sustainability solutions, fighting climate change by eliminating significant carbon emissions in a world where most freight is transported using fossil fuels.

About BasicBlock

BasicBlock is a financial technology company founded in 2018 in Lincoln, Nebraska, that builds financial products to help independent carriers grow their fleets. BasicBlock has quickly become a leader in freight factoring, and its tools provide streamlined, efficient and cost-effective financial services for fleets and carriers worldwide. The company's mission is to help fleets get paid more quickly and increase access to affordable working capital. For more information, visit www.basicblock.io

About ZEBOX

Initiated in 2018 by Rodolphe Saade, Chairman & CEO of CMA CGM Group, ZEBOX is a world leading ecosystem of entrepreneurs and industry leaders, paving new paths toward sustainability. By gathering world's most innovative startups, industry leaders and ecosystem experts, ZEBOX provides a unique set of programs, resources, and opportunities, enabling its community to develop the sustainable solutions of tomorrow starting with supply chain, logistics, transport, and energy. To date, ZEBOX has supported more than 100 startups globally through its 4 innovation hubs across Europe, North America, West Africa and the Caribbeans.

Headquartered in Marseille, France, ZEBOX launched its third hub in America in February 2021 under the leadership of Charley Dehoney, an established tech entrepreneur known for his transportation, supply chain, and logistics technology expertise. To learn more about ZEBOX and its programs, visit www.ze-box.io/en/ .

Contact:

George Protopapadakis

786-200-7918

[email protected]

SOURCE Blume Global
Bright Pattern to deliver presentations on omnichannel and what's next at CCW Berlin on 28 February to 2 March.

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bright Pattern will be heading to CCW Berlin, which is recognized as Europe's biggest trade show for the world of CX, from 28 February to 2 March. Bright Pattern is widely regarded as one of the most technologically advanced cloud-based omnichannel CX solutions and will be delivering two engaging speaking sessions with two of the most intelligent and dynamic industry experts leading the presentations.

Bright Pattern is coming to CCW Berlin 2023

CCW Berlin is the predominant contact center event in the DACH region. Bright Pattern is rapidly expanding into the German market through partnerships with two of Bright Pattern's most important and essential DACH partners, Sogedes and Teleconnect GmbH.

Bright Pattern's first speaking session will be hosted by Daniel Tollenaere, ex-General Manager of Store Operations for Officeworks; the largest office supply chain in Australia. This presentation will be held on 28 February from 11:30 - 12:00. His presentation, titled "Omni-Enterprise CX - Go Beyond Omnichannel and More", will elaborate on Omni-Enterprise CX. This discussion revolves around bringing every single employee in the enterprise into any customer interaction on voice and digital channels. Officeworks was able to increase in-store responses by nearly 300% while boosting NPS significantly via the Bright Pattern Mobile App.

Bright Pattern's second speaking session will be hosted by Luc Cavelier, Head of Business Development in EMEA for Bright Pattern. Having over 30 years of experience, his presentation will be held on 1 March from 13:30 - 14:00. His thought-provoking presentation, titled "Making Omnichannel A Reality", explains the incredible benefits of true omnichannel and the process of implementing true omnichannel conversations in your call center.

Bright Pattern will set up on the show floor at official Booth #485. The Bright Pattern team is extremely excited to meet you at CCW Berlin and talk to you about delivering better customer experiences in your contact center. Bright Pattern will see you at CCW Berlin!

About Bright Pattern

Bright Pattern provides the simplest yet most powerful all-in-one omnichannel contact center solution with over 500 customers in 26 countries, including Bank of America, Bell24, Cable and Wireless, City of Brampton, Community Medical, Detroit Water, Enercare, EY, First Bank, Hairclub, Hurtigruten, Mediterranean Shipping Company, Naver, Officeworks, Pepsi, Randstad,SEIU, Southern Cross Health Insurance, Sun Country Airlines, Sylvan Learning, United Power, VW Bentley, YMCA, and Zillow. Bright Pattern is the highest rated omnichannel platform by customers and analysts , with the fastest ROI and time to deploy in the industry.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2008948/Bright_Pattern_CCW_Berlin_2023.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/967243/Bright_Pattern_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Bright Pattern
Appeal Seeks to Confirm Under PRA Law That Agencies May Not Ignore Evidence of Responsive Records

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The non-profit Consumer Watchdog has filed an appeal in its California Public Records Act ("PRA") lawsuit against Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and the California Department of Insurance.

According to the lawsuit, the Department failed to search for records of meetings and communications with worker's compensation insurer Applied Underwriters ("Applied") and three other companies involved in a government corruption scandal.

Consumer Watchdog appealed a ruling by Superior Court Judge Mitchell Beckloff, arguing the trial court committed reversible error in determining that under the PRA an agency need not follow up on evidence of additional records discovered in the course of its own search.

Download Consumer Watchdog's brief.

"Our California Constitution guarantees the public's access to government records. Yet, state agencies routinely abuse disclosure laws," said Consumer Watchdog Litigation Director Jerry Flanagan. "We hope the Court of Appeal will send a clear message that state agencies must not be allowed to ignore clear evidence of public records. Access to information concerning the conduct of the people's business is a critical weapon in the fight against government corruption."

In early 2019, individuals linked to Applied and three other companies made at least $54,300 in campaign contributions to Commissioner Lara's 2022 re-election campaign. Some of the contributions were made in the names of relatives of company executives, apparently to hide their true sources. Commissioner Lara then ordered Administrative Law Judges to reverse their prior orders in at least four proceedings before the Department to benefit Applied. Applied also stood to gain if Commissioner Lara approved the sale of Applied's affiliate, California Insurance Company.

In the wake of statewide news reports of the pay-to-play scandal, Consumer Watchdog filed two PRA requests with the Department seeking communications and meeting records.

Because Consumer Watchdog could not and did not know, and still does not know, the names of all the individuals involved, the group sought records relating to certain named individuals as well as any other individuals "employed by or representing" Applied.

The trial court committed reversible error in determining that under the PRA, an agency need not follow up on evidence of additional records discovered in the course of its own search, according Consumer Watchdog's brief.

As noted in the brief,

"In response to the CPRA requests, the California Department of Insurance . . . produced 60 pages of records regarding meetings with company representatives. The public records produced . . . revealed two . . . individuals who were representing Applied. Moreover, Commissioner Ricardo Lara and senior agency personnel overseeing the search were put on notice through direct communications that at least two other individuals, including former Speaker of the State Assembly-turned-lobbyist Fabian Nunez, were likely representing Applied during the time-period relevant to the CPRA requests. Yet despite those clear leads, the agency failed to update its search terms to determine whether any other responsive records associated with the four individuals existed."

The trial court also erred by narrowly assessing the reasonableness of the agency's search for records based on the limited knowledge of the handful of Department staff responsible for responding to Consumer Watchdog's CPRA requests, rather than agency personnel familiar with the documents.

To remedy these errors and ensure that the public continues to have access to all types of public records, Consumer Watchdog's appeal requests that the Court of Appeal remand the case to the trial court with instructions on the correct legal standard to apply.

The California Department of Insurance is the largest state agency in the country and is responsible for regulating the $310 billion insurance industry in California. "The public needs transparency to ensure that insurance companies are not receiving special favors from regulators that make coverage more costly," according to Flanagan.

The appeal, Consumer Watchdog v. Superior Court (Real Parties in Interest Commissioner Ricardo Lara and the Dep. of Insurance) Case No. B326643, is pending in the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District in Los Angeles, California.

SOURCE Consumer Watchdog
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Canada Booster Compressor Market By Cooling Type (Air, Water), By Stage (Single, Double, Multi), By Power Source, By Pressure Rating (14-40 bar, 41-100 bar, 101-350 bar, >350 bar), By End Use Industry, By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Canada booster compressor market is expected to witness a growth of steady CAGR in the forecast period, 2023-2027

Increased spending on the oil & gas industry, ongoing technological advancements, and the rapid development of natural gas infrastructure are the primary factors driving the market growth.

Also, the rise in production and sales of electric vehicles and the growing investment in clean energy is expected to propel the growth of the Canada booster compressor market in the forecast period.

Expansion of the Natural Gas Network Drives the Market Growth

The growing awareness about the benefits of using natural gas over other conventional sources of energy is expected to fuel the demand for natural gas all over the country. Government authorities are launching projects to accelerate the exploration of natural gas, and the rapid completion of these projects is bolstering the demand for booster compressors throughout the forecast period.

Leading authorities have proposed eighteen LNG export projects in Canada that comprise projects in varying locations, including 13 in British Columbia, 2 in Quebec, and 3 in Nova Scotia, with a total estimated export capacity of 216 million tons per annum (mtpa) of LNG.

The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) is forecasting a 22 percent increase in natural gas and oil investment in 2022. The rise in energy requirements and ongoing developments are expected to propel the demand for the Canada booster compressor market through the forecast period.

Growing Demand for Electric Vehicle Boosts High Market Demand

According to the government of Canada, transportation is responsible for approximately 25% of greenhouse gas emissions which are majorly released from passenger cars and light trucks. The rise in environmental concerns and the need to lower the greenhouse gases in the environment is accelerating the need to adopt zero-emission vehicles.

The launch of the plan, "A Healthy Environment and A Healthy Economy," which aims to build a cleaner and stronger transportation system, is a positive factor for the market growth. The government has set targets for all new light-duty cars and passenger trucks to become zero-emission vehicles by 2035 and is promoting the manufacturing of electric batteries in the country.

Compressed air and gas are required to optimize the production of electric batteries. The growing sales of electric vehicles are expected to create lucrative opportunities for the Canada booster compressor market in the forecast period.

Surging Manufacturing and Processing Industry to Support the Market Growth

The rise in investments in the oil & gas industry, power, and chemical industry is projected to propel the growth of booster compressors across the country.

Government authorities are introducing policies and regulations to relax the new entry players' procedures and create an environment to boost productivity across different industry verticals. Entry of foreign market players and promotion of investment policies by leading authorities and market players are expected to bolster the development of other industries.

The growing manufacturing industry and the need to use compressor gas & oil in these industries are expected to propel the growth of the Canada booster compressor market for the forecast period.

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Atlas Copco

Kaeser Compressors Inc.

Boge Kompressoren Otto Boge GmbH & Co.

Sauer Compressors

Bauer Kompressoren

Hitachi Ltd.

Ingersoll Rand

Gardner Denver

Baker Hughes Company

Idex Corporation

Maximator Gmbh

Haskel

Key Topics Covered:



1. Product Overview



2. Research Methodology



3. Impact of COVID-19 on Canada Booster Compressor Market



4. Executive Summary



5. Voice of Customers

5.1. Brand Awareness

5.2. Factors Considered while Selecting Supplier

5.3. Key Satisfaction Level

5.4. Major Challenges Faced



6. Canada Booster Compressor Market Outlook

6.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.1.1. By Value

6.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.2.1. By Cooling Type (Air, Water)

6.2.2. By Stage (Single, Double, Multi)

6.2.3. By Power Source (Electric & Combustion Engine)

6.2.4. By Pressure Rating (14-40 bar, 41-100 bar, 101-350 bar, >350 bar)

6.2.5. By End Use Industry (Oil & Gas, Manufacturing, Chemicals, Power, Others)

6.2.6. By Region

6.2.7. By Company (2021)

6.3. Product Market Map



7. Canada Air Booster Compressor Market Outlook

7.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.1.1. By Value

7.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.2.1. By Stage

7.2.2. By Power Source

7.2.3. By Pressure Rating

7.2.4. By End Use Industry

7.2.5. By Region



8. Canada Water Booster Compressor Market Outlook

8.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.1.1. By Value

8.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.2.1. By Stage

8.2.2. By Power Source

8.2.3. By Pressure Rating

8.2.4. By End Use Industry

8.2.5. By Region



9. Market Dynamics

9.1. Drivers

9.2. Challenges



10. Market Trends & Developments



11. Policy & Regulator Landscape



12. Canada Economic Profile



13. Company Profiles

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/t3zikk-booster?w=5

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SOURCE Research and Markets
Veteran Executive Andrea Favaloro Assumes Responsibilities for CBIS Global

CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Christian Brothers Investment Services, Inc. (CBIS), a leading investment management firm and Registered Investment Advisor to Catholic investors around the world, today announced that Andrea Favaloro has agreed to serve as President of CBIS Global.

Mr. Favaloro, who most recently served as Chief Business Officer for Tokyo-based Asset Management One International, is assuming his new role following Alessandro Lombardi's planned departure.

Veteran Executive Andrea Favaloro Assumes Responsibilities for CBIS Global Tweet this

A long-time veteran of the financial industry, Mr. Favaloro has served in executive roles with Generali Group, Paris, BNP Paribas Asset Management, Paris, and Fortis Investments, Milan.

He will report to Jeffrey McCroy, President and CEO of CBIS, from CBIS Global's office in the Generalate of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in Rome. The firm also maintains a regional office in Spain.

"Gradual and thoughtful transition of executive leadership is always a challenge," says Mr. McCroy, "which is why we spent so much time searching for someone with the right combination of skills and excitement for Catholic investing to lead CBIS Global. We're convinced we've found that leader in Mr. Favaloro."

CBIS Global offers a series of sub-advised investment funds  the CBIS Global Funds  that rely on the principles of the CBIS Catholic Responsible Investments approach. From its inception, the firm has worked exclusively with Catholic investors.

According to Brother Martin Rocha Pedrajo, FSC, CBIS Board member and General Bursar of the Institute for the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Mr. Favaloro is well-equipped to further CBIS' mission to serve the greatest number of Catholic investors looking to transform the world.

"Given our rich history of attracting people of strong character and keen ability, I'm not surprised to see Andrea accept this challenge," says Brother Martin. "Beyond his obvious skill, I have to think his excitement for Catholic investing will help CBIS Global to reach a larger audience."

At year end, CBIS represented $9.2 billion in assets under management. The firm has indicated it seeks to build out its CBIS Global product offering, including the development of solutions-based products similar to its CRI Magnus Funds but targeted to non-U.S. investors.

"As CBIS strives to serve the greatest number of Catholic investors looking to transform the world, the whole of the company must be greater than the sum of its parts," says Mr. Favaloro. "We have great opportunity at CBIS Global to build on all the work that has gone before, and I look forward to the day when CBIS' combined businesses are serving a much larger universe of the Catholic faithful."

For more information on CBIS Global, including fund objectives and performance, visit cbisonline.com/eu/.

About CBIS

Christian Brothers Investment Services, Inc. is a Catholic, socially responsible investment management firm and Registered Investment Advisor. A trusted partner to Catholic investors around the world, the firm relies on its unique Catholic Responsible Investments to provide Catholic investors sound financial returns while remaining faithful to the moral and social teachings of the Church. Founded in 1981 by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, CBIS engages third-party institutional investment firms to actively sub-advise its portfolios. As of 12/31/2022, the firm was responsible for the management of $9.2 billion in assets. Headquartered in Chicago, CBIS has offices in Rome and Madrid. For more information, visit cbisonline.com, or call 877-550-224.

Contact:

Sarah McClain

877-550-2247

[email protected]

Communications Strategy Group

303-228-1735

[email protected]

SOURCE CBIS
Stock Market Symbols

GIB.A (TSX)

GIB (NYSE)

cgi.com/en/newsroom

MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - CGI (TSX: GIB.A) (NYSE: GIB) announced today that it intends to enter into a private agreement with CDPQ for the purchase for cancellation of 3,344,996 of its Class A subordinate voting shares ("Class A Shares") held by CDPQ for a price of $119.58 per Class A Share, which represents a discount to the closing price on February 24, 2023 of the Class A Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX").

The transaction will be made in connection with the periodic portfolio rebalancing of CDPQ. Once completed, CDPQ will continue to hold approximately 19.18 million Class A Shares, representing approximately 8.16% of CGI's total outstanding shares.

"CGI continues to produce excellent results for its shareholders and this share repurchase is an opportunity to monetize a portion of our investment to the benefit of our depositors. Furthermore, we plan to reinvest this amount in Quebec companies," said Kim Thomassin, Executive Vice-President and Head of Quebec at CDPQ. "Following this transaction, CDPQ will remain one of the main shareholders of CGI, and we intend to continue supporting the company. CGI is a world leader in information technology that is well positioned to continue finding success in both Quebec and international markets."

"This transaction is consistent with our value creation strategy and is immediately accretive to our shareholders," said Julie Godin, Co-Chair of the Board, CGI. "CGI has the strength and capital resources to execute on our Build and Buy profitable growth strategy given our strong balance sheet and excellent cash generation, combined with $2.8 billion of cash readily available at the end of December 2022."

A favourable decision was obtained from the Autorite des marches financiers (AMF) to exempt CGI from the issuer bid requirements under applicable securities legislation. The transaction will be entered into at a discount, in accordance with the decision of the AMF, and is expected to be entered into later today and settled on February 28, 2023.

The share repurchase will be made under CGI's normal course issuer bid ("NCIB"), the renewal of which was announced on February 1, 2023. Under the NCIB, CGI is authorized to repurchase up to 18,769,394 Class A Shares by February 5, 2024. The NCIB allows for purchases outside the facilities of the TSX by private agreements pursuant to exemption orders issued by securities regulators. As at February 24, 2023, CGI had not repurchased any Class A Shares under its current NCIB.

Information regarding the share repurchase, including the number of Class A Shares purchased for cancellation and aggregate price paid, will be available on the SEDAR website at sedar.com following the completion thereof. CGI will not issue any additional press release in respect of this share repurchase.

About CGI

Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent IT and business consulting services firms in the world. With 90,250 consultants and professionals across the globe, CGI delivers an end-to-end portfolio of capabilities, from strategic IT and business consulting to systems integration, managed IT and business process services and intellectual property solutions. CGI works with clients through a local relationship model complemented by a global delivery network that helps clients digitally transform their organizations and accelerate results. CGI Fiscal 2022 reported revenue is $12.87 billion and CGI shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.A) and the NYSE (GIB). Learn more at cgi.com.

About CDPQ

At CDPQ, we invest constructively to generate sustainable returns over the long term. As a global investment group managing funds for public retirement and insurance plans, we work alongside our partners to build enterprises that drive performance and progress. We are active in the major financial markets, private equity, infrastructure, real estate and private debt. As at December 31, 2022, CDPQ's net assets totalled CAD 402 billion. For more information, visit cdpq.com, follow us on Twitter or consult our Facebook or LinkedIn pages.

CDPQ is a registered trademark owned by Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec and licensed for use by its subsidiaries.

Forward-looking information and statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other applicable United States safe harbours. All such forward-looking information and statements are made and disclosed in reliance upon the safe harbour provisions of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws. Forward-looking information and statements include all information and statements regarding CGI's intentions, plans, expectations, beliefs, objectives, future performance, and strategy, as well as any other information or statements that relate to future events or circumstances and which do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts. Forward-looking information and statements often but not always use words such as "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "anticipate", "foresee", "plan", "predict", "project", "aim", "seek", "strive", "potential", "continue", "target", "may", "might", "could", "should", and similar expressions and variations thereof. These information and statements are based on our perception of historic trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other assumptions, both general and specific, that we believe are appropriate in the circumstances. Such information and statements are, however, by their very nature, subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, of which many are beyond the control of CGI, and which give rise to the possibility that actual results could differ materially from our expectations expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not restricted to: risks related to the market such as the level of business activity of our clients, which is affected by economic and political conditions, additional external risks (such as pandemics, armed conflict, climate-related issues and inflation) and our ability to negotiate new contracts; risks related to our industry such as competition and our ability to develop and expand our services, to penetrate new markets, and to protect our intellectual property rights; risks related to our business such as risks associated with our growth strategy, including the integration of new operations, financial and operational risks inherent in worldwide operations, foreign exchange risks, income tax laws and other tax programs, our ability to attract and retain qualified employees, to negotiate favourable contractual terms, to deliver our services and to collect receivables, to disclose, manage and implement environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives and standards, as well as the reputational and financial risks attendant to cybersecurity breaches and other incidents, and financial risks such as liquidity needs and requirements, maintenance of financial ratios, interest rate fluctuations and the discontinuation of major interest rate benchmarks and changes in creditworthiness and credit ratings; as well as other risks identified or incorporated by reference in this press release, in CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A and in other documents that we make public, including our filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators (on SEDAR at www.sedar.com) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (on EDGAR at www.sec.gov). Unless otherwise stated, the forward-looking information and statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and CGI disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. While we believe that our assumptions on which these forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are based were reasonable as at the date of this press release, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking information or statements. Furthermore, readers are reminded that forward-looking information and statements are presented for the sole purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding our objectives, strategic priorities and business outlook as well as our anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Further information on the risks that could cause our actual results to differ significantly from our current expectations may be found in the section titled Risk Environment of CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A, which is incorporated by reference in this cautionary statement. We also caution readers that the above-mentioned risks and the risks disclosed in CGI's annual and quarterly MD&A and other documents and filings are not the only ones that could affect us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial could also have a material adverse effect on our financial position, financial performance, cash flows, business or reputation.

SOURCE CGI Inc.
BEIJING, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from Beijing Review:

Mizhi, a county in the northwestern province of Shaanxi, is reputed to be a producer of high-quality millet, one of the oldest cultivated grains in the world. Farmers there have, in the past, been unable to find a market for their millet due to a lack of visibility. However, the emergence of e-commerce is helping them secure livelihoods from the crop.

"The purchasing price of local millet has doubled since 2016, when I started the business," Zhang Xiongbiao, founding General Manager of the Shaanxi Young Entrepreneurs League E-Commerce Co. Ltd., told Beijing Review.

Zhang started his business together with another 20 local young people, signing exclusive agreements with growers to purchase their millet and selling it through online channels. To date, Zhang's business has provided more than 6,000 households of growers with livelihoods, helping them increase their income and escape poverty.

Private businesses like Zhang's, which make up 90 percent of the number of market entities nationwide, have been playing an indispensable role in all aspects of China's social and economic development. They currently contribute more than 50 percent of the country's tax revenue, 60 percent of its GDP, 70 percent of technological innovation and 80 percent of urban employment.

"The private sector is the source of vitality for China's economic development," Yang Yiqing, Deputy Director of Zhejiang Businessman Research Institute, a think tank under Zhejiang Gongshang University, told Beijing Review. "To a great extent, it determines the growth potential of employment and consumption."

"At present, the most important thing is to lift market access restrictions on private investment and shore up the confidence of entrepreneurs to tide them over difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and shrinking exports and consumption," Yang said.

Central authorities have been reiterating the stance on providing an enabling environment for private enterprises and facilitating their growth to revitalize the economy.

It's never easy for private entrepreneurs to pursue careers. Zhang still remembers how hard it was to purchase new millet from growers in the first year of his company. "They were unwilling to sell new harvests as the millet of previous years remained unsold," he said. Worse still, Zhang, previously a designer, knew little about e-commerce and had to start from scratch. Even his offices were offered for free by the government at an e-commerce industrial park.

Things got better as e-commerce began to take off around the nation. The sector also received a boost from the government for its significant role in alleviating poverty and rural revitalization. Particularly, numerous live-commerce events on major e-commerce platforms and surging media reports have increased exposure for more agricultural product brands. Zhang has ridden the momentum and seized the opportunities as they have come along.

Then came the COVID-19 pandemic. Many places imposed movement restrictions to curb the spread of the virus, but they disrupted the nation's logistics industry. "Some customers were unwilling to wait for extended delivery times. We also had difficulties hiring new employees due to the restrictions," Zhang said.

Chinese authorities continued to send positive signals, emphasizing the need to consolidate and develop the public sector of the economy, and at the same time encourage, support and guide the development of private enterprises.

The Central Economic Work Conference in December 2022, which outlined priorities for the government's economic work in 2023, underlined law-based protection of the property rights of private enterprises and the interests of entrepreneurs.

Inspired by positive policy signals and optimized COVID-19 response measures, Zhang shows strong confidence toward the future.

"Our e-commerce business centered solely on millet sales at the beginning, but now we have set up a millet primary processing base and our own logistics networks," he said, adding he has invested 120 million yuan ($17.6 million) in infrastructure construction and upgrading.

"We're able to expand business activities and people are tending to consume more as pandemic controls have been eased, which indicates bright prospects," Zhang said.

Despite these advances, discussions on the relationship between government and private companies continue. China's efforts to regulate market order, such as rectifying chaos in the Internet and extracurricular tutoring industries, were misinterpreted by some as a crackdown on the private sector.

Yang believes "the dynamic balance between development and regulation is an art" and that pacing development is like riding a bicycle: Too fast is risky but too slow makes it easy to fall over.

"With clear and detailed rules and regulations, the government needs to create a law-based business environment, and enterprises should operate according to law," Song Xiangqing, Director of the Research Center for Industrial Economy at Beijing Normal University, told Beijing Review.

SOURCE Beijing Review
Large Reinvestments Postponed in 2022 But Appetite for Reinvestment Remains High

GUANGZHOU, China, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Chamber of Commerce in South China (AmCham South China) today released its 2023 White Paper on the Business Environment in China and 2023 Special Report on the State of Business in South China. The release was attended by over 200 government officials, business executives and members of media including over 40 foreign consulates mostly represented by their consuls general. Both publications can be downloaded free of charge from http://www.amcham-southchina.com/amcham/static/publications/publications.jsp

The 481 page bilingual White Paper on the Business Environment in China, now in its 16th year, is a well-structured and extensively-researched volume which presents a multifaceted and unbiased account of the business environment in China. The 141 page bilingual Special Report on the State of the Business in South China, our 19th such endeavor, provides a comprehensive and quantitative analysis of the business community and valuable insights into the development trends in South China. This year 210 companies were studied. It is important to note that the gathering of the study data was completed by December 15th, 2022, shortly before China ended its zero COVID policy. Therefore, the study data has not been impacted by immediate emotional impact of the policy change. The Chamber plans on conducting a mid-year study to determine the accurate and actual impact of the policy change. Both publications are researched and produced independently by AmCham South China and do not represent the opinions of the US or any other government or organization. AmCham South China does not receive any funds from any government in the production of these publications.

Over the past three years, the relentless pandemic put China through the wringer, but even with the zero-tolerance pandemic policy, in 2022 the country realized surprising achievements amid pervasive uncertainty and instability. In 2022, China's GDP growth stood at 3% year-on-year, a slowdown from 8.4% in 2021. At the same time, its trade surplus swelled to a record US$877.6 billion, with exports showing a 7% increase from 2021 to US$3.95 trillion despite weakening U.S. and European demand and draconian pandemic control measures. FDI into the world's second-largest country, in actual use, expanded 8% year-on-year to US$189.13 billion. Dr. Harley Seyedin, President of AmCham South China, winner of 2017 Oslo Business for Peace Award (together with Elon Musk, Durreen Shahnaz and Murad Al-Katib), which is awarded by an Award Committee of Nobel Laureates in Peace and Economics, said, "The COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a severe but temporary blow to China's economy. With the elimination of the zero-tolerance policy and further opening up, the country is now headed towards recovery and will unleash substantial economic vitality greater and sooner than expected. Our studies released today, show that China's economy will be a crucial locomotive in promoting global economic growth in 2023."

According to the 2023 Special Report on the State of Business in South China, up to 97% of the companies report their operations have been impacted by visa and travel restrictions induced by COVID-19. Among them, 65% cancelled international events and meetings in China, 61% cancelled all international business travel, and 29% have had to suspend their investment projects. It is important to note that companies are cautious about high-volume reinvestments (more than US$250 million) but their appetite for exploring the Chinese market remains strong. 75% of the companies plan to reinvest in China in 2023 and they have set aside a whopping US$18.3 billion in cash for reinvestment over the next three to five years. "China's reopening will allow expatriate expert builders to return to China and help make investment projects now on hold, a reality," said Dr. Harley Seyedin.

Key Takeaways of the 2023 White Paper on the Business Environment in China and the 2023 Special Report on the State of Business in South China:

Albeit a moderate decrease in the proportion of companies reporting to have increased headcount in 2022, most companies are upbeat about their employment expansion plans, with 44% of them planning to augment their headcount significantly or slightly in 2023.

More than half of the participating companies gained over 30% of their global revenue from China , an increase of 4%. 45% of the participating companies registered a significant or slight increase in their revenue from China , including 43% of American companies and 49% of manufacturing companies.

, an increase of 4%. 45% of the participating companies registered a significant or slight increase in their revenue from , including 43% of American companies and 49% of manufacturing companies. Companies' profitability shows signs of improvement in 2022. 88% of the participating companies are reported to have gained profits in China , an increase of 6%. Up to 90% of American companies have achieved profitability. Moreover, 54% of those who are profitable in China reported to have met their budget expectations.

, an increase of 6%. Up to 90% of American companies have achieved profitability. Moreover, 54% of those who are profitable in reported to have met their budget expectations. There is a greater sense of optimism among the participating companies towards their expected time to reach profitability. A vast majority of them expect to attain profitability within two years, while only 4% believe that it will take over six years to reach that goal, three times less than that of a year earlier.

China is believed to enjoy a high return on investment (ROI) with 76% of the participating companies reporting a positive overall ROI in China . 49% of the companies consider their overall ROI in China to be higher than their global overall ROI.

is believed to enjoy a high return on investment (ROI) with 76% of the participating companies reporting a positive overall ROI in . 49% of the companies consider their overall ROI in to be higher than their global overall ROI. Although the confidence of American companies in the business outlook in China oscillates to some extent, over 50% of them still stay sanguine about the Chinese market.

oscillates to some extent, over 50% of them still stay sanguine about the Chinese market. China is still deemed as the most attractive destination for investment. More than 90% of the participating companies select China as one of the most important investment destinations. Although the proportion of foreign companies that regard China as the first choice for investment has declined for the second consecutive year, more than 50% still list China as the top three investment destinations.

is still deemed as the most attractive destination for investment. More than 90% of the participating companies select as one of the most important investment destinations. Although the proportion of foreign companies that regard as the first choice for investment has declined for the second consecutive year, more than 50% still list as the top three investment destinations. The investment enthusiasm of companies is on an upward trajectory, with four-fifths of companies that actually reinvested in China in 2022.

in 2022. Compared with the past year, more companies chose to reinvest less than US$250 million in China in 2022. However, companies are cautious about large investments. Specifically, while 10% of the companies had each budgeted to reinvest US$250 million or more in China in 2022, only 5% actually reinvested that amount in the same year. But American companies and companies engaged in consumption products and services take an optimistic view of very large reinvestment projects, accounting for the highest proportion and reaching 7% and 8% respectively.

in in 2022. However, companies are cautious about large investments. Specifically, while 10% of the companies had each budgeted to reinvest or more in in 2022, only 5% actually reinvested that amount in the same year. But American companies and companies engaged in consumption products and services take an optimistic view of very large reinvestment projects, accounting for the highest proportion and reaching 7% and 8% respectively. In 2022, 74% of the participating companies chose not to shift their investments out of China . Not a single company has intention to leave China entirely.

. Not a single company has intention to leave entirely. Most companies still consider China as a critical part in their future strategic development plans. 75% of the participating companies plan to reinvest in China in 2023, including 68% of American companies that are determined to dig deeper into the Chinese market.

as a critical part in their future strategic development plans. 75% of the participating companies plan to reinvest in in 2023, including 68% of American companies that are determined to dig deeper into the Chinese market. It is estimated that companies will reserve US$18.3 billion from profits for reinvestment in China in 2023 and the next three to five years, a sharp fall of approximately 30.98% compared with the previous year.

from profits for reinvestment in in 2023 and the next three to five years, a sharp fall of approximately 30.98% compared with the previous year. Companies are slowing down their business expansion in China , with 3% fewer companies (69%) planning to expand over the next three years.

, with 3% fewer companies (69%) planning to expand over the next three years. Guangzhou has been recognized as the top preferred investment destination in China six years in a row, followed by Shenzhen , Shanghai , and Beijing .

has been recognized as the top preferred investment destination in six years in a row, followed by , , and . Research this year reveals a trace of pessimism over the business environment in South China . 9% fewer companies rate the business environment as "excellent" or "good" while 11% more companies see a deterioration in the business environment. Rising operation costs and rising labor costs are identified as the two biggest challenges that companies face in South China in 2022.

The trade volume between US and China hit a new record high of US$690.6 billion in 2022. Less than 30% of the companies are bullish about the bilateral relationship in 2023, a drop of 13%. 8% fewer Chinese companies (32%) are upbeat about the future ties while 26% more American companies (44%) express their pessimism.

White Paper on the Business Environment in China and Special Report on the State of Business in South China

The White Paper on the Business Environment in China offers a summary of China's impressive accomplishments since China's "opening-up" and examines the key influences on the business environment in present-day China, such as national policy initiatives and the global economic crisis.

The Special Report on the State of Business in South China is a quantitative study of the business environment, conducted for consecutive years by AmCham South China. Each year, AmCham's member and non-member companies participate in AmCham's State of Business study, results of which will be garnered and edited into a separate publication.

Both documents can be downloaded free of charge from the chamber's website at http://www.amcham-southchina.com/amcham/static/publications/publications.jsp

About the American Chamber of Commerce in South China

The American Chamber of Commerce in South China (AmCham South China) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to facilitating bilateral trade between the United States and the People's Republic of China. Accredited in 1995 by the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, AmCham South China represents more than 2,300 corporate and individual members, is governed by a fully-independent Board of Governors elected from its membership, and provides dynamic, on-the-ground support for American and international companies doing business in South China. Over the past decade, AmCham South China has hosted on average each year more than 10,000 business executives and government leaders from around the world at its briefings, seminars, committee meetings and social gatherings. All AmChams in China are independently governed and represent member companies in their respective regions.

SOURCE The American Chamber of Commerce in South China
Within three years of the company founding, due to accelerated global demand for its cloud security platform, Wiz becomes the world's largest cybersecurity unicorn and fastest SaaS company to reach a 10B valuation.

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Three years from establishment, Wiz, a leader in cloud security, has raised $300 million at a $10 billion valuation led by Lightspeed Venture Partners and existing investors Greenoaks Capital Partners and Index Ventures. Valued at $10 billion, Wiz is now the world's largest cybersecurity unicorn and fastest SaaS company to achieve a $10 billion valuation.

The demand for Wiz's product is evident in customer validation from more than 35% of Fortune 100 companies, including BMW and Morgan Stanley, as well as other leading companies such as Salesforce, Slack, Colgate, and Blackstone, demonstrating that Wiz's approach to cybersecurity is the future of the industry. Additionally, earlier this month, G2, the world's largest software marketplace, awarded Wiz Best Security Product for 2023.

Wiz has expanded its cloud security platform (CSPM & CNAPP) during 2022, adding modules for Container and Kubernetes security, Data Security Posture Management (DSPM), and Cloud Detection and Response (CDR), enabling organizations to further consolidate their cloud security program to a single platform that is truly built for cloud.

The company, founded in March 2020 and headquartered in New York, plans to add additional headcount to its existing 650 employees in the U.S. and globally, and open three new U.S. offices in Austin, Dallas and Washington, DC. Wiz will continue expanding its workforce with the best talent and will continue expanding in the U.S. market, including the federal government in its efforts to secure the nation from cyber attacks. The funds will also support the continued global expansion in EMEA and APAC.

Since inception almost three years ago, Wiz has raised $900M from investors, including Sequoia Capital, Insight Partners, Blackstone and G Squared. The company is also backed by prominent private investors and leading entrepreneurs such as the world's wealthiest individual, Bernard Arnault, and Starbucks founder, Howard Schultz.

Supporting Quotes:

Assaf Rappaport, co-founder and CEO of Wiz, said: "We are extremely proud of our growth rate in terms of number of customers, sales and valuation, especially in view of the current market conditions for global high-tech. While there are many cybersecurity offerings in the market, Wiz's explosive growth proves that organizations choose our platform because it allows security and development teams to efficiently identify vulnerabilities and prevent breaches. Wiz also consolidates many fragmented tools into one platform, from vulnerability assessment to data security and permission analysis. This round of funding will accelerate the growth of our global operations, enable diversification of our customers across a range of industries, and support our commitment to continued innovation".

Patrick Backhouse, Partner at Greenoaks, said: "Wiz is rapidly becoming the center of the cloud security ecosystem. Just two years ago, securing the cloud environment meant relying on a scattered collection of point solutions and add-ons. But today, Wiz has built a comprehensive cloud-native platform that gives customers actionable insights within minutes, showing them their areas of vulnerability, the risks they face, and how to resolve them. We rarely see a business gain traction or garner customer love so quickly, and we are thrilled to partner with Assaf and his team as they pursue the next chapter in their journey."

Arsham Memarzadeh, Partner at Lightspeed Ventures, said: "The continued adoption of the cloud opens up the next platform opportunity in cyber. Wiz has grown into the gold standard for cloud security with customer love typically reserved for the best consumer app rather than a cyber business. Lightspeed is thrilled to co-lead this round."

Adam Fletcher, Chief Security Officer at Blackstone, said:

"I see Wiz as the cloud security platform for people who understand how to protect the cloud. Wiz has all of the capabilities that we've identified as core to our cloud security strategy, and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow. As the cloud providers engineer new solutions that require new security technologies, I'm confident that Wiz will develop them."

About Wiz

Wiz was founded by CEO Assaf Rappaport, CTO Ami Luttwak, VP Product Yinon Costica, and VP R&D Roy Reznik. The team has worked together for over 20 years, including as Microsoft's Cloud Security Group leads and as the founding team of Adallom, which was acquired by Microsoft for $320 million.

Wiz scans every layer of the cloud to provide complete visibility, and uses its Security Graph's context to eliminate the noise and surface the risks that matter most. Customers can then quickly identify, prioritize and remove risks across their cloud.

This new approach to cloud security disrupts the agent-based security model and utilizes an agentless, API-centered approach to seamlessly scan cloud workloads. Wiz said goodbye to contextless alerts and, instead, at the heart of the product lies the Wiz Security Graph.

Media Contact:

Cara Masessa

[email protected]

856.375.4060

SOURCE Wiz
Born out of Mass General Brigham, and led by healthtech veterans, CodaMetrix empowers health systems to use Artificial Intelligence to prevent revenue setbacks driven by manual coding inefficiencies

Overhauling medical coding is now crucial for health systems grappling with physician burnout, billing backlogs and claim denials, skilled labor shortages, and a graying medical coding workforce

AI-powered, multi-specialty, autonomous medical coding eliminates human intervention, reduces coding costs, improves coding quality and unlocks clinician capacity

BOSTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CodaMetrix , the leading AI technology platform transforming healthcare revenue cycle management, today announced that it closed a $55 million Series A round led by SignalFire. Frist Cressey Ventures (FCV), Martin Ventures, Yale Medicine, CU Healthcare Innovation Fund, and Mass General Brigham physician organizations also participated in the round. Chris Scoggins, Partner at SignalFire, will join the CodaMetrix Board of Directors.

The capital injection will accelerate go-to-market with major provider organizations and health systems, as U.S. healthcare contends with high coding expense, increasing complexity and ongoing skilled labor scarcity further underscoring the critical need for automation to address the chronic inefficiencies that continue to waste 25-30% of every dollar spent in healthcare.

"CodaMetrix's innovations in AI technologies and the experienced team of healthtech executives are a couple of key factors that went into our decision to partner with the company to systematically improve the way our health system accounts for patient care in both billing and clinical cycles", said Chris Scoggins. "This platform literally wasn't possible even a few years ago but now because of advances in AI and cloud computing, combined with unique training data from our world-class health system partners, CodaMetrix has built a platform that really works for physicians, financial administrators and health systems."

Senator Bill Frist, M.D, Co-founder and Partner at FCV commented, "The proven outcomes, customer traction of the platform, and focus on quality coding are well in line with our goals of administrative streamlining to tackle wasteful spending in billing and insurance-related expenses".

Hospital CFOs and revenue cycle VPs are facing a severe shortage within their revenue cycle management or billing departments . Medical coding is one of the costliest and most time-consuming roles to fill, based on job search and time for onboarding, and 30% of positions sit empty . Held largely by older Gen X-ers and Baby Boomers , medical coding needs have been outpacing the speed of healthcare innovation.

As it stands today, medical coding is still a highly manual and error-prone process that plagues hospital finances and contributes to physician burnout. Certified professional medical coders sift through clinical notes (non-standardized) to correlate each patient encounter with standard and regulated codes (e.g., Procedure (CPT) and Diagnosis (ICD)) for each claim submitted for reimbursement. Coders must navigate tens of thousands of classification options to choose codes mandated by varying payer rules, contributing to a 40% or more error rate . As such, coders are expected to "speak the language" of physicians and payers, a mistake-prone exercise that drains time from coders and physicians alike.

"As a company born out of one of the largest and most innovative health systems in the country, our team experienced firsthand the pain points caused by medical billing challenges, including delayed payments, claim denials, coder shortages, high costs, and the time they take time away from patient care," said Hamid Tabatabaie, CodaMetrix President and CEO. "To address these challenges, medical coding, as the proxy for evidence of care provided, has to become largely autonomous. Beyond the clear cost and efficiency advantages, automation for the first time will make it affordable and practical to ensure selected codes include the clinical specificity required for use cases in population health, value-based care, care management, research, and quality initiatives. Our goal is to use our platform to bridge the gap between clinical and administrative use cases of medical coding, while continuously delivering actionable insights to make the revenue cycle faster, smarter, and less of a burden on physicians and the coding workforce."

Currently in partnership with 10 health systems and major academic universities, including Mass General Brigham, University of Colorado Medicine, Yale Medicine, and Henry Ford Health Systems, CodaMetrix improves clinical coding accuracy and reduces revenue leakage. The platform uses AI in the form of machine learning, deep learning, and natural language processing to continuously learn from, and act upon, the clinical evidence stored in electronic health records (EHRs). As a multi-specialty platform that classifies codes across radiology, pathology, surgery, gastroenterology, and inpatient professional coding, CodaMetrix is the first platform to have an impact across departments by alleviating administrative burdens from billing staff.

"Frustrated by the lack of quality autonomous solutions out there, we built CodaMetrix through the lens of healthcare revenue cycle experts, addressing real health system and physician concerns. Our outcomes  a 70% reduction in manual labor  59% reduction in denials due to coding, and a significant increase in cost savings  is the proof." said Michael Mercurio , Vice President of Physician Revenue Cycle Services at Mass General Brigham.

About CodaMetrix

CodaMetrix (CMX) is a SaaS technology company providing an AI-powered platform to facilitate healthcare revenue cycle management and medical coding. The company's cutting-edge platform combines machine learning (ML), deep learning, and natural language processing (NLP) to translate clinical notes automatically, accurately, and autonomously into billing and diagnostic codes that satisfy coding requirements while reducing human coding workload. CodaMetrix's AI continuously learns from and acts upon the clinical evidence in electronic health records (EHRs). That knowledge is applied to improve the efficiency and quality of medical coding and to enable providers to code less and care more. For more information, visit https://www.codametrix.com .

Media contact

[email protected]

SOURCE CodaMetrix
CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) will host a webcast and conference call to review its fiscal 2023 third quarter results on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. ET. The company's news release will be issued at approximately 7:30 a.m. ET.

The live audio webcast and presentation slides will be available on conagrabrands.com/investor-relations under Events & Presentations. The conference call may be accessed by dialing 1-877-883-0383 for participants in the U.S. and 1-412-902-6506 for all other participants and using passcode 2483233. Please dial in 10 to 15 minutes prior to the call start time. Following the company's remarks, the conference call will include a question-and-answer session with the investment community.

A replay of the webcast will be available until April 5, 2024.

About Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG), headquartered in Chicago, is one of North America's leading branded food companies. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Conagra Brands combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus on innovation. The company's portfolio is evolving to satisfy people's changing food preferences. Conagra's iconic brands, such as Birds Eye, Marie Callender's, Banquet, Healthy Choice, Slim Jim, Reddi-wip, and Vlasic, as well as emerging brands, including Angie's BOOMCHICKAPOP, Duke's, Earth Balance, Gardein, and Frontera, offer choices for every occasion. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.

For more information, please contact:

MEDIA: [email protected]

INVESTORS: [email protected]

SOURCE Conagra Brands, Inc.
The leading open Clinical AI platform allows users to develop and deploy their own AI algorithms and leverage third-party AI algorithms within existing clinical workflows.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ConcertAI's TeraRecon, advanced visualization and AI Clinical SaaS category leader, has announced its Eureka Clinical AI platform is now available to European healthcare providers. The company initiated distribution agreements with seven leading CE-marked AI software developers Cercare Medical, Combinostics, Coreline Soft, Imaging Biometrics (CE pending), Infervision, Radiobotics, and Riverain Technologies. Eureka Clinical AI is now one of the leading unified solutions for clinical AI algorithms in Europe, providing clinical and diagnostic benefits across radiology, neurology, oncology, pulmonology, and cardiology.

Through the partnership agreements, Clinical AI applications available in the EU market include:

Cercare Medical's Cercare Perfusion is a fully-automated, patient-specific perfusion application for brain CT and MRI that provides deep insight into brain tissue oxygenation through standard and unique perfusion biomarkers.

Combinostics cMRI goes beyond MRI quantification to provide automated, objective quantification, lesion assessment and biomarker-based diagnostic support for dementia, Multiple Sclerosis, Traumatic Brain Injury and Epilepsy.

Coreline Soft AVIEW CAC automatically segments and displays the location of calcified lesions in CT chest exams to assist clinicians in the early detection of coronary artery disease. Also offered, AVIEW LCS automatically detects and segments lung nodules in CT scans for lung cancer screening, and provides optimized workflow based on Lung-RADS. AVIEW LCS is available as a standalone application, or in combination with AVIEW CAC and/or an LAA analysis algorithm to meet your specific needs.

Imaging Biometrics IB Clinic provides MR perfusion imaging for brain tumor analysis with key physiological information like true regions of contrast enhancement (void of post-surgical blood products), and tumor blood volume and flow. (CE pending)

Infervision InferRead  Lung CT.AI aids in the quick and accurate detection and quantification of lung nodules, and auto-routes all data to PACS, EMR, and reporting systems.

Lung CT.AI aids in the quick and accurate detection and quantification of lung nodules, and auto-routes all data to PACS, EMR, and reporting systems. Radiobotics RBfracture automatically detects fractures in X-rays exams across the entire appendicular skeleton. Additionally, RBknee automatically analyzes knee X-rays for osteoarthritis, based on OARSI and KL gradings.

Riverain Technologies ClearRead applications for CT and X-ray use unique vessel and bone suppression technology that enables radiologists to focus on the actionable data to improve accuracy and quality, while decreasing reading time and the number of missed nodules.

Eureka Clinical AI is unique in the industry for its open AI approach that supports the hosting and management of first-party algorithms; proprietary TeraRecon solutions such as TR Neuro, an AI-assisted workflow solution purposely built for the detection and care activation of neurovascular emergencies.; and third-party solutions. ConcertAI CEO, Jeff Elton, PhD commented "ConcertAI and TeraRecon have the broadest array of clinical and AI solutions in production globally. Our approaches have always emphasized the ability to integrate the leading AI innovations be they from us, our partners or our provider customers. This assurance of highest utility combined with the ability to manage AI algorithms centrally are critical."

While the Eureka Clinical AI platform is centered around clinical users, we also understand the need to quickly and easily onboard partners and vendor-agnostic algorithms. Which is why we've built a best-in-breed technical onboarding portal to reduce the time and effort of integration, and give developers access to upload their AI algorithms and test data sets, run the algorithm, and visualize the results firsthand to confirm compatibility with the Eureka platform.

"We're proud to partner with this amazing group of developers, each selected for their expertise in providing solutions to solve our most critical customer needs," said Dan McSweeney, President, TeraRecon. "Individually contracting, integrating, and deploying all these applications is not manageable for the majority of health systems. Operationally, technically, and financially we've simplified this process and eliminated these barriers to allow our clinical users access to the most cutting-edge decision-making tools, while providing a unified user experience."

Schedule a demo at ECR 2023 to see our Eureka Clinical AI platform live (please let us know during the scheduling process if you're interested in a demo from any of our AI partners). You can also reserve time to see the new features of our flagship Intuition product, including dual monitor support, patient list filtering, glow rendering, new measurement tools, HL7 communication protocol, and new neuro perfusion workflow.

Outside the show floor, TeraRecon will host an educational dinner during ECR, focusing on the role of AI in healthcare. Held Wednesday, March 1, at 7:00pm, the event will feature remarks by thought leader Dr. Jean Francois Paul, radiologist and chief of cardiac imaging (CT and MR) at Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, Paris. A limited number of spots remain for this event; please submit your details for inclusion. (Please note: due to the intimate setting, we will not be able to accommodate all interested)

About ConcertAI: ConcertAI is the leader in AI Saas Technologies fo clinical research and clinical care and Real-World Evidence (RWE) solutions. Our mission is to accelerate insights and biomedical innovations, thereby improving outcomes for patients. For more information, visit us at www.concertai.com

About TeraRecon: Serving ~1,900 clinical sites globally, TeraRecon, a ConcertAI company, is a Best in KLAS solution provider for AI-empowered radiology, oncology, cardiology, neurology, and vascular surgery. Awarded the KLAS Category Leader for Advanced Visualization, TeraRecon solutions are independent of any one manufacturer's imaging equipment or PACS system, allowing a single, unified, and simplified clinical workflow that can improve efficiencies and deliver actionable physician-guided insights. For more information, visit us at www.terarecon.com

Media Contact:

Chris Gale

[email protected]

SOURCE ConcertAI
MIAMI, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On February 17, 2023, Judge Kenneth A. Marra of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida issued an order imposing contempt sanctions against The Ren Project ("Ren") for its willful violation of the Court's Order for Asset Freeze Injunction and to Transfer the Stolen Bitcoin ("Permanent Injunction"), in a class action lawsuit filed by customers of Project Investors, d/b/a Cryptsy. Cryptsy was an online exchange which held digital currencies on behalf of its customers. North Field Technology, Ltd., a subsidiary of Themis Recovery AG which does business as Token Recovery, is endeavoring to recover the stolen coins for the class.

The underlying judgment in this case arises from the conduct of Paul Vernon, the founder and former operator and Chief Executive Officer of Cryptsy. Vernon stole all of his customers' coins and then used various services and exchanges to launder those coins so that they would be difficult to trace. Using an advanced tracing technology, Token Recovery identified Ren as a service used to launder a substantial number of the stolen coins. When Ren refused to turn over the stolen coins to Token Recovery, Token Recovery pursued contempt sanctions against Ren for its violation of court orders.

Ren did not contest the requested sanctions and failed to appear for a hearing on February 17, 2023. At that hearing, Judge Marra ordered Ren to immediately transfer the 685 BTC of the Stolen Bitcoin in its custody - with an approximate value of US $17,066,501, to a digital wallet held by Token Recovery or produce the cash equivalent in U.S. dollars. The Judge also imposed a daily fine of $500.00 (equivalent to approximately 0.020 BTC) for every day following the entry of the contempt order that Ren fails to comply by turning over the 685 BTC to Token Recovery.

Separately, Defendant Vernon is facing criminal charges in Miami, where a 17-count indictment accuses him of a complex scheme to exploit his control over Cryptsy to steal customer funds before abruptly moving to China and later destroying company records in an attempt to cover his tracks.

Cozen O'Connor, representing Token Recovery, is tremendously proud of the work we have done on behalf of the many unsuspecting Cryptsy customers who have fallen victim to Defendant Vernon's brazen theft. Sadly, as this type of criminal activity is all too common in the digital currency world, Token Recovery, is determined to relentlessly pursue those bad actors in an effort to provide some justice for the many innocent people who have become victims of fraud and had their digital assets stolen. The Cozen O'Connor team is honored to support Token Recovery in its efforts.

North Field deploys Token Recovery, a proprietary tracing and recovery mechanism trademarked by Themis Recovery AG. Token Recovery aims to bring the law to digital assets and offers a unique end-to-end technological solution to assist in the recovery of all lost or stolen digital assets such as Bitcoin. This solution, which encompasses technical, legal, financial and investigative expertise, in conjunction with financial backing and litigation funding, seeks to not only recover digital assets, but to also increase the retail, institutional and enterprise adoption of blockchain structures and digital assets by fostering confidence in these powerful systems.

SOURCE Cozen OConnor
New MSPC Order is a Win for Single Site Customers or Corporates with Multiple Sites in Aggregate of 1MW or Greater, Who Are Now Eligible to Get Paid to Stabilize the Grid and

Enable the Energy Transition Across the State

BALTIMORE , Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today CPower Energy (" CPower "), the national leader in unlocking the value of customer Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), announced its support for the Michigan Public Service Commission (MSPC)'s recent Order that clarifies that single site customers or corporate customers with multiple sites in aggregate of 1 MW or greater are eligible to participate in demand response programs in the state. The Order benefits big box retail and other commercial and industrial businesses who can get paid by reducing power when the grid is stressed and to help avoid the need for generation from fossil fuel peaker plants.

"We applaud the Commission for opening up the market for demand response aggregation in Michigan, which we view as a bellwether for other Midwestern states who are carefully looking at grid services and resource adequacy. With this Order, Michigan has confirmed that they understand the importance of unlocking the potential of existing assets as resources to support the grid and their communities by third party demand response aggregators. We are actively working with customers across the state in retail and other verticals to help them tap into demand response opportunities and help them unleash future opportunities as the proliferation of distributed energy resources continues," said Peter Dotson-Westphalen, Senior Director  Market Development and Regulatory Affairs, CPower.

The MSPC Order relates to Michigan previously lifting a ban on Aggregators of Retail Customers (ARC) in the state. For years, many state commissions across the Midwest have been uncertain about their ability to regulate ARCs, although Michigan and other states are now reevaluating their approaches to demand response due to capacity shortfalls and the need to lower energy costs.

CPower manages 6.3 GW of capacity across the U.S., connecting DERs at more than 17,000 sites to meet the grid's real-time supply needs. For customers interested in learning about demand response, contact CPower: https://cpowerenergymanagement.com/contact/.

About CPower Energy

CPower Energy is the national leader of grid balancing and reliability solutions, creating a Customer-Powered Grid that will enable a flexible, clean and dependable energy future. With 6.3 GW of capacity at more than 17,000 sites across the U.S., we unlock the full value of distributed energy resources to strengthen the grid when and where it's needed most. CPower is based in Baltimore, Maryland and is owned by LS Power, a development, investment, and operating company focused on the power and energy infrastructure sector. For more information, visit: www.cpowerenergymanagement.com .

SOURCE CPower Energy Management
An immersive taste of the region's vibrant epicurean experiences

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Savor Charlotte is a two-week celebration of the dynamic and creative culinary community who make the Queen City one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the Southeast. Taking place March 8-22, epicurean adventures include experiential hands-on classes and demonstrations, exclusive menus, special offers and more.

From a special cooking class at Taco Molino with Executive Chef / Owner Scott Wallen, the Amaro tasting dinner with Chef Tommy Vance at Little Mama's Italian, and special discount at Biblio, to wine tastings at Dogwood Southern Table & Bar, cocktail classes at Billy Sunday or The Cocktailery, and a specialty barbeque flavored doughnut from Reigning Doughnuts, every Savor Charlotte activation is customized and unique to the culinary artists making them. Savor Charlotte will also include the kick-off of Black Food Truck Fridays in partnership with Black Business Owners of Charlotte (BBOC), which will take place on Friday, March 17 from 4-9 p.m.

Savor Charlotte includes experiential hands-on classes and demonstrations, exclusive menus, special offers and more. Tweet this

Designed to raise awareness of Charlotte's diverse gastronomic offerings, the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA) invited the city's culinary curators to submit specials that reflect their signature taste and distinct charm. Savor Charlotte is intended to connect locals and visitors alike and inspire them to indulge in one-of-a-kind flavors not available anywhere else. With a focus on celebrating the culinary tastemakers helping to shape Charlotte, all are invited to partake during two weeks of delicious activations to explore the flavors of the city.

"We are passionate about honoring and recognizing Charlotte's extremely innovative and dynamic culinary community," said Tom Murray, Chief Executive Officer at the CRVA. "With 25% of visitor spending attributed to food & beverage, we know that Charlotte remains a city of culinary opportunity. We are excited to spotlight the talented individuals and local businesses bringing the city's distinctiveness to life through creative programming for Savor Charlotte."

Charlotte has an eclectic mix of epicurean adventures ranging from internationally inspired dishes to local farms and everything in between. From recently announced James Beard Award nominees to perpetually creative mixologists, Charlotte remains at the forefront of travelers' minds as a must-visit culinary destination. Savor Charlotte is a testament to the inspirational work of those who define the flavor of the Queen City.

The Savor Charlotte journey is easy to navigate. As Charlotte's industry trendsetters continue to confirm and add new details on a rolling basis, those interested in booking an exclusive Savor Charlotte offer can make reservations directly by clicking on each listing of the participating chefs, mixologists, restaurateurs, bakers, and more. For more information on Savor Charlotte, click here.

About the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority

The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA) works to deliver experiences that uniquely enrich the lives of our visitors and residents. Through leadership in destination development, marketing and venue management expertise, the CRVA leads efforts to maximize the region's economic potential through visitor spending, creating jobs and opportunities for the community. Brands supported by the CRVA include the Charlotte Convention Center, Spectrum Center, Bojangles Entertainment Complex, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte Regional Film Commission and Visit Charlotte in conjunction with the region's destination marketing brand. For more information, visit charlottesgotalot.com.

SOURCE Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority
BOSTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cultured meat, or the use of animal cells grown to create lab-grown meat products, has been a hot topic in recent years, with big milestones such as its commercialization in Singapore in 2020 and, recently, regulatory approval in the United States. So, when will cultured meat hit local supermarket shelves? The good news is that commercialization may be imminent for several players in the industry, with IDTechEx's "Cultured Meat 2023-2043" report forecasting that the market will exceed US$2 billion by 2033. However, achieving this at scale still requires overcoming large barriers.

The first barrier for cultured meat is regulation. Across the world, regulators have made good progress since the emergence of the industry a decade ago. The leader is Singapore, who approved Just Eat's Good Meat products back in 2020. To date, Just Eat's product has remained the only commercially available cultured meat product globally. However, this will soon change: several other leading players are also looking to enter the Singapore market. On the other side of the world, regulatory approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for UPSIDE meat's product indicates that the US market is opening soon.

In contrast, the EU parliament only had its first-ever debate on the topic of cultivated meat in 2022, an indicator that the approval process may still be a while away. The situation in China is more promising; they are likely to approve their first cultured meat before 2027, as the country's five-year agriculture plan explicitly mentions the adoption of cultured meat. However, before cultured meat enters new markets, regulators will have to consider how to label cultured meat products. Labeling should clearly differentiate the product from conventional and plant-based meat types, but missteps could profoundly affect the consumer perception of cultured meat. Certainly, consumer perception is king, and cultured meat players are keen not to echo the failure of genetically modified organisms.

The cost of production represents the second significant barrier for cultured meat's widespread commercialization. Specifically, the cost of growth media, the liquid broth in which cultured cells grow and proliferate until there is enough mass to form burgers, nuggets, or fillets, is a major issue that remains to be solved. Today, the companies that sell growth media predominantly serve the pharmaceutical industry, where relatively small quantities of cells are used to produce very high-value products. However, for cultured meat, over 500 liters of media is needed to produce 1 kilogram of meat. As it stands, one liter of growth media can still cost a few hundred dollars, almost all of which is attributed to a couple of essential, high-value ingredients called growth factors produced at high-cost and low volume.

The high cost of growth media is a common challenge that several cultured meat players are addressing as they aim toward commercialization. The demand from this emerging industry has also catalyzed a new wave of growth media providers looking to provide low-cost growth factors and low-cost media.

Optimizing the bioreactor within which cells are grown is another approach to addressing the cost of production. The bioreactor is the vessel where the cells grow and is a critical component in maintaining the optimal environment. The industry standard bioreactors are stirred tank bioreactors. While easily scalable, these tanks require a lot of medium, and the stirring can cause shear strain stresses on cells. Overall, these bioreactors are more suitable for the pharmaceutical industry than for cultured meat. Innovation in the cultured meat bioreactor space is developing, and there are signs of bioreactors beyond stirred tank designs that may improve production costs. For instance, packed bed and fluidized bed bioreactors are two designs that allow the cultivation of cells at much higher cell density than stirred tank bioreactors. With a higher cell density, much less volume of growth media is required to produce 1kg of meat in this type of bioreactor.

In conclusion, it may still be a while before consumers can easily buy cultured meat from local supermarkets. However, with the regulatory precedence set by Singapore and the US and innovations aspiring to enable production at scale, there are promising signs of an industry that will continue to grow. IDTechEx's report, "Cultured Meat 2023-2043", includes discussion of technical innovations on growth media and bioreactor design required for successful scale-up of the cultured meat industry.

To find out more, including downloadable sample pages, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/CulturedMeat.

About IDTechEx

IDTechEx guides your strategic business decisions through its Research, Subscription and Consultancy products, helping you profit from emerging technologies. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit www.IDTechEx.com.

Media Contact:

Lucy Rogers

Sales and Marketing Administrator

[email protected]

+44(0)1223 812300

Social Media Links:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/IDTechEx

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/IDTechEx

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Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/478371/IDTechEx_Logo.jpg

SOURCE IDTechEx
CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Global Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market size is accounted to be $2.63 Billion in the year 2022 and is projected to be $6.01 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 10.9 % from 2023 to 2030, as per a recent report published by Cognitive Market Research. Dental restoration using CAD-CAM technology is more accurate and aesthetically pleasant. Hence, imes-icore GmbH, one of the world market leaders in digital, dental CAD/CAM production systems, has introduced the CORiTEC one+, the first open 5-axis system with a fully automated workflow. With its five axes and seamless workflow, the machine sets a benchmark for faster processing of blocks, pre-milled abutments, and blanks.



Major findings during Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Industry Analysis:

Dental restoration is one of the critical parameters in a person's appearance. It also prevents infection and decay in the mouth. The majority of people undergo tooth restoration to improve their smile and looks. Hence, demand for CAD/CAM market is rising across the globe

Rise in the incidence of tooth loss, the increasing geriatric population, and advancement in the manufacturing process of dental CAD/CAM systems are driving the demand for restoration. This is gradually stimulating the growth of the Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems market

The dental CAD/CAM system has dominated the market, and it is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period owing to the increase in demand for software that is used to design restoration procedure

Dental clinics segment held the highest revenue market share, which can be attributed to the rising number of dental clinics across the globe. Further, there has been an elevation in dental visits due to increased dental disorders as well as rise in the spending capacity on dental treatments

North America accounts for the highest market share due to increased awareness regarding the importance of oral care among people living in the U.S. and Canada . Further, extensive R&D activities boost the CAD/CAM systems market in North America . The U.S. is the largest contributor to the growth of the market owing to the high prevalence of oral disorders and the rising geriatric population that increases the demand for restoration techniques

accounts for the highest market share due to increased awareness regarding the importance of oral care among people living in the U.S. and . Further, extensive R&D activities boost the CAD/CAM systems market in . The U.S. is the largest contributor to the growth of the market owing to the high prevalence of oral disorders and the rising geriatric population that increases the demand for restoration techniques The dental CAD/CAM systems market in the APAC region will show a relatively high growth rate owing to the rising unhealthy eating habits, which ultimately lead to oral disorders among the population

Read Full Market Analysis Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems: by Product (Materials, and Systems); by Material (Metal, Polymers, and Ceramics); by End-use (Dental Clinics, Dental Laboratories, and Milling Centers); by Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East, and Africa) Global Industry Analysis, COVID-19 Impact, and Industry Forecast, 2018-2030

Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Industry Statistics 2022:

Global Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Industry Statistics 2022 Global Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market Sales 2022 $ 2.63 Billion Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market CAGR (2023 to 2030) 10.9 % Dental CAD CAM Systems Share (Product Segment) 61.2 % Dental CAD CAM Ceramics Share (Material Segment) 69.8 % Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Dental Segment (End User) 63.6 % North America Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Share 35.2 %

What are the Growth, Drivers, and Opportunities for the Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market?

High prevalence of oral diseases has been observed worldwide due to growing urbanization and changes in living conditions. Intake of unhealthy food with high sugar content and inadequate supply of fluoride are the primary factors resulting in a surge of people with dental caries.

It has been estimated that almost 7% of the global population experiences tooth loss. The chances of prolonged oral disease and tooth loss increased in people aged 60 years or older. Losing teeth for an individual can be socially damaging and also causes limitations of various functions. This is increasing the demand for restoration techniques.

Chairside computer-assisted manufacturing restoration is gaining extensive demand globally due to its accuracy, reliability, and efficiency. Advancement in restoration techniques has increased diversity in materials, such as metal alloys, ceramics, oxide ceramics, resins, and resin-matrix ceramics (RMC). Chairside CAD/CAM restorations are considered to be fast and patient-friendly.

For instance, 3M has launched Chairside Zirconia, designed to provide both strength and aesthetics to CAD/CAM Blocks. The product is designed for easy cementation and is compatible with both resin and glass ionomer cement.

Read the Full Report with the Table of Contents and Consult with Author:

https://www.cognitivemarketresearch.com/dental-cad-cam-materials-and-systems-market-report

How the COVID-19 Impacted Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Industry?

The growth of the healthcare industry witnessed a significant decline in 2020 due to the Covid-19 impact, thereby impacting the dental industry. Government laws restricted the full operation of various hospitals and dental clinics in several countries in the first and second quarters of 2020 to avoid public interaction, which has decreased the demand for restoration techniques.

Moreover, the procurement for capital equipment is projected to decline (revenue) due to the crisis, as elective procedures are being kept on hold and delayed. Interruption in the supply chain of various commodities, including material, apparatus, and software, has significantly hampered the dental CAD/CAM material and systems.

Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market Report Description

Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market  Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018  2030)

Materials

Systems

Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market - Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018  2030)

Metal

Polymers

Ceramics

Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market  End-user Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018  2030)

Dental Clinics

Dental Laboratories

Milling Centers

Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market  Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2018  2030)

North America (U.S., Canada , Mexico )

(U.S., , ) Europe ( Germany , France , UK, Italy , Spain , Russia , Rest of Europe )

( , , UK, , , , Rest of ) Asia Pacific ( China , Japan , India , South Korea , Australia , Southeast Asia , Rest of APAC)

( , , , , , , Rest of APAC) Latin America ( Brazil , Argentina , Columbia , Rest of Latin America )

( , , , Rest of ) Middle East & Africa (GCC, Saudi Arabia , Turkey , Egypt , Rest of MEA)

List Of Key Players in Dental CAD CAM Materials and Systems Market

3M Company

Company Amann Girbach AG

Dental wings Inc.

Danaher Corporation

imes-icore GmbH

Dentsply Sirona Inc.

Institut Straumann AG

Planmeca OY

Roland DGA Corporation

INSTITUT STRAUMANN AG

Others

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The global dental care market is expected to reach USD 62.9 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 6.3%. Product innovation and technological advancements, such as AR and VR in dentistry, CAD/CAM restoration techniques, and others, stimulate the growth of the dental care market. Further, the growing geriatric population, increasing awareness about oral hygiene, and rise in the prevalence of oral disorders boost the growth of the dental care market.

Global Dental Anesthesia Market is expected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2030.

The global dental anesthesia market is expected to reach USD 1.2 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 8.9%. The significance of oral health has risen dramatically in recent years due to increased consumer awareness in emerging countries. Maintaining a healthy mouth, teeth, and gums requires regular dental hygiene. It can also improve physical appearance and overall quality of life. Furthermore, dental tourism is supported by several countries around the world. The technological advancement in dentistry, including 3D printing and use of AI is also utilized to assist dental tourism professionals in improving their sensitivity skills by enhancing their capability. All these factors boost the growth of the dental anesthesia market.

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VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - DESERT MOUNTAIN ENERGY CORP. (the "Company") (TSXV: DME) (U.S. OTC: DMEHF) (FSE: QM01) From the President of the Company. The Company is pleased to announce that it has completed high-pressure testing of all the processing facility components and has powered up the facility through the compressed natural gas (CNG) generators. The McCauley Helium Processing Facility will transition to solar energy upon the arrival of the battery storage units.

DME has identified a few items which could possibly affect processing during elevated summer temperatures. GENERON is resolving this by fabricating the appropriate pieces and installing them within 10-14 days to resolve any issues.

"We are pleased with the excellent job performance and on-site fabrication services that our installation crews did for us since taking delivery of the plant," said Robert Rohlfing, CEO of Desert Mountain Energy Corp. "Working through the final details on a project that is this complex is time-consuming but necessary."

Extreme winter conditions required extra diligence during welding and other operations performed in the open desert. Pass ratings required X-raying all welds to detect any defects like porosities, cracks and inclusions. The Company made the decision to go above the normally accepted practices in order to ensure years of uninterrupted operation and minimum maintenance. DME anticipates it will continue to work through various throughput, gaseous chemical mixtures and final product purity levels over the 90-day optimization program.

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.
GRANTS PASS, Ore., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On Friday, Feb. 17, Dutch Bros and its customers donated more than $900k on its annual Dutch Luv day. On Dutch Luv day, each of the company's approximately 700 locations donated $1 from every drink sold to local food organizations.

Dutch Bros and its customers donated more than $900K for local food organizations

"We're thrilled to announce the results of this year's Dutch Luv day! Every year, our customers continue to amaze us with their generosity and commitment to supporting our communities," said Katie Hutchison, vice president of philanthropy at Dutch Bros Coffee. "We're so grateful to those who made this day possible; our customers, crews and the food organizations working to feed the communities we serve."

The impact of this year's donation funds will go on to serve countless families in need across the 14 states where Dutch Bros operates.

About Dutch Bros

Dutch Bros Coffee is a drive-thru coffee company dedicated to making a massive difference one cup at a time. Headquartered in Grants Pass, Oregon, where it was founded in 1992 by Dane and Travis Boersma, it's now sharing the "Dutch Luv" with approximately 700 locations in 14 states. Dutch Bros serves specialty coffee, smoothies, freezes, teas, an exclusive Dutch Bros Rebel energy drink and nitrogen-infused cold brew coffee. Its rich, proprietary coffee blend is handcrafted from start to finish.

In addition to its mission of speed, quality and service, Dutch Bros is committed to giving back to the communities it serves. Through its Dutch Bros Foundation and local operators and franchisees, the company donates several million dollars to causes across the country each year.

To learn more about Dutch Bros, visit www.dutchbros.com , follow Dutch Bros Coffee on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , & TikTok , and download the Dutch Bros app to earn points and score rewards!

SOURCE Dutch Bros Coffee
SUZHOU, China and SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Eluminex Biosciences (Suzhou) Limited (Eluminex) officially announced today the closing of a Series B financing of over $40 million (USD). Financing was led by Cenova Capital with additional participation from Guangzhou Yuexiu Industrial Investment Fund Management, 3E Bioventures Capital, Oriza Holdings, and Series A investors.

Eluminex is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to the research and development of global innovative therapeutics with a major focus in ophthalmology and recombinant human collagen technology. Its headquarters and research and development center are located in BioBAY of Suzhou Industrial Park, China, with a clinical and registration center located in South San Francisco, California.

Dr. Jinzhong Zhang, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Eluminex, said: "We have made substantial pipeline progress since our $50 million Series A closure in November 2020, which was co-led by Lilly Asia Ventures, Hillhouse Capital, and Quan Capital. With the Series B raise, the Company will use the proceeds to further mature our innovative ophthalmic pipeline as well as the recombinant human collagen technology platform to meet the needs of patients in China and globally. We are grateful to the four well-known institutional investors and current shareholders for their recognition and support of Eluminex."

Eluminex's pipeline programs include novel multi-targeted antibody molecules for vision-threatening retinal diseases, an oral small molecule for rare inherited pediatric retinal dystrophies, and the clinical development and manufacturing of recombinant human collagen-based products with the potential to be world's first biosynthetic cornea for the treatment of corneal stromal blinding diseases. The Company is currently building a GMP facility in BioBAY of Suzhou Industrial Park for the manufacturing of the recombinant human collagen biosynthetic cornea and other collagen-based products and is expected to operate in mid-2023.

About Eluminex Biosciences (Suzhou) Limited

Founded in February 2020, Eluminex Biosciences (Suzhou) Limited is a global biotechnology company focusing on ophthalmic diseases and recombinant human collagen technology. The company's headquarters and research and development center are located in BioBAY of Suzhou Industrial Park, with a US-campus based in South San Francisco, California. For more information, visit www.eluminexbio.com.

About Cenova Capital

Headquartered in Shanghai, Cenova Capital is one of the earliest healthcare funds dedicated to early and growth-stage investments in the life sciences and healthcare sectors in China. Since inception in 2010, Cenova now has 7 funds under management with investments in healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and digital health. Cenova's investors are mainly large domestic and international institutional investors including Asian sovereign wealth funds, government institutions, insurance and financial institutions and multinational companies.

About 3E Bioventures Capital

3E Bioventures Capital is dedicated to investing in cutting-edge life sciences and biomedical technologies, with a focus on breakthrough first-in-class therapies and disruptive cross-disciplinary innovations in medical devices and diagnostics. 3E Bioventures takes on a science-driven, entrepreneur-friendly investment philosophy by working closely with companies and research institutions to develop drugs or products that have strong unmet medical needs. With offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and the San Francisco Bay Area, 3E Bioventures leverages its experience, capabilities, and network to help companies tap into markets and resources across the Pacific and advance with greater speed and capital efficiency. The motto of 3E Bioventures Capital is captured in its name 3E: Expertise, Efficiency, Execution.

SOURCE Eluminex Biosciences
The Published Report Highlights Encino's Sustainability Initiatives

CARROLLTON, Ohio, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Encino Energy published its 2022 Community Progress Report, providing insight on the Company's achievements through its Community Partnership Program.

Since 2019, Encino and its employees have been able to positively impact over 66 different community organizations while simultaneously investing over $1.46 million back to the communities in which they work. The Company also reported over 325 hours of employee volunteering.

Jackie Stewart, Director of External Affairs for Encino Energy, spoke to the importance of utilizing the Community Partnership Program and outreach initiatives.

"Encino Energy is fully invested in the communities we call home. The Community Partnership Program Progress Report highlights the various successes that can be made when we work diligently with others to achieve a common good. We are committed to doing the right things, for the right reasons and this report reflects that."

The Encino Community Partnership Program is designed to develop partnerships between Encino and the communities in which it operates. This program directly improves the company's surrounding communities, with a focus on long-term sustainable projects. For more information on Encino's Community Partnership Program and to access their 2022 Community Impact Report, you can visit their website at https://www.encinoenergy.com/community-partnerships/community-partnerships/.

Media Contact

Jackie Stewart

[email protected]

330.388.0842

SOURCE Encino Energy
HOUSTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Essency, an innovative startup leading the water heating industry forward with advanced hot water solutions, has been named a finalist for the prestigious 2023 Edison Award for Innovation for its groundbreaking EXR water heater. The EXR is the first tank-type water heater that also operates like a tankless on-demand hot water system, delivering always fresh water taken from the municipal water supply, and run through an oversized heat exchanger where heat is transferred instantaneously, using the stored water in the tank as its heat/energy source.

Essency's EXR Shines as 2023 Edison Award Finalist: Bringing Innovation to the Home Water Heating Market. A water heater such as the world has never seen before, the Essency EXR. The EXR is an efficient and highly productive water heater that can meet the hot water needs of every homeowner -- now and for decades to come.

The Edison Awards recognize the world's most innovative companies, and Essency has earned its place among the elite companies that are using innovative practices to produce products and services that improve people's lives by solving significant social and economic problems.

The EXR is designed for homeowners who want a worry-free, long-lived, and easy-to-manage water heater that can meet all their hot water needs.

"We are thrilled to be selected as a finalist for the prestigious Edison Awards, joining a select list of global companies and organizations whose innovative products are helping improve people's lives," says Nathalie Barendrecht, CEO, Essency. "Essency's EXR water heater stands out as the one water heater that can meet the hot water needs of virtually every home in America."

The EXR was launched globally in the United States in 2022 and is now rolling out through partner Ferguson Enterprises' nationwide plumbing distribution network  a network focused on the professional plumbing, HVAC, builder, and remodeler contractor and installer markets. With a market-leading first-hour rating of 80 gallons of hot water, the EXR can provide enough hot water to meet every household's needs. Homeowners appreciate the durability of the water heater, which is designed for 30 years or more of use and comes with a 20-year warranty on the tank. The tank is constructed of high-strength, rust-proof polymer composite material, making the water heater lightweight and easy to install.

By using fresh water straight from the source, the EXR eliminates the scale and mineral buildup problems that can cause bacteria buildup and odor problems in conventional tank water heaters. The EXR Smart Technology feature allows owners to control functions such as temperature settings, vacation mode, and receive maintenance alerts digitally through WiFi and the MyEssency app. Additionally, the battery-operated backup system keeps the water heater operating in the event of power loss.

Essency is based in France, with U.S. headquarters in Houston. The company strongly recommends homeowners work with factory-certified contractors and technicians for EXR installations.

The Edison Awards ceremony will take place on April 20 in Ft. Myers, Florida, where Essency will be recognized as one of the world's most innovative companies for its groundbreaking EXR water heater  and will learn if it will take home a bronze, silver or gold award.

For more information on Essency and the EXR water heater, visit www.essency.com and visit www.edisonawards.com to learn more about the Edison Awards and Essency's role as a finalist for a 2023 award. Also find great Essency-related content at https://www.facebook.com/EssencyOnDemand/.

Media Contact:

Doug Hovelson

6129980789

[email protected]

SOURCE Essency
NASH COUNTY, N.C., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- This spring, Nash County North Carolina is taking a new approach to travel marketing targeted towards 20-30+ year olds and that generation's obsession with reality dating shows. While this approach may seem out of left field, it is based in research and creativity.

The campaign's focus is to connect with singles within a 100-mile radius to drive overnight stays to the county as a destination for leisure travel while highlighting various locations throughout the county that make ideal dating locations.

Leading man of the Explore Nash County Campaign Jim Green on the Tar River Trail in North Carolina.

"Digging into information on this audience, research showed that more single women than single men were coming to the area," said Barbara Green, Nash County Tourism Director. "Even with the odds in their favor, a lot of guys were still having trouble finding 'the one.' From these facts, a campaign was born to help encourage the visitation of Millennials and Generation X to the county for overnight stays."

Further insight identified that Nash County is home to the largest craft beer incubator in the state. That fact alone pulls in a younger demographic to try new beers each week.

The Nash County travel campaign is called "I'm Still Looking." It follows a guy named Jim Green, who has been unlucky in love. Jim is a frequent visitor to the area, but has yet to meet "the one." The campaign allows the audience to meet Jim; then, it asks the internet to help find him a date. Every other week the campaign will release a video of Jim's latest date. Between dates, the campaign will feature bad date videos and stories submitted by the public, dating surveys, information on places to take a date. Jim's grandmother even makes an appearance reading and reacting to fan comments. How will it turn out? Who will he choose? Tune in to find out at imstilllooking.com when the campaign concludes mid-April.

Explore Nash County, the travel and tourism department for Nash County, partnered with travel marketing company Wonder Guides, Greensboro, NC, to create the ground-breaking campaign. The videos will be progressively released on the Explore Nash County social media pages, and on the campaign website imstilllooking.com.

Explore Nash County partnered with Koi Pond Brewing Company, at Rocky Mount Mills, to create a custom "I'm Still Looking" beer dedicated to the campaign. The beer features an image of Jim Green with the call to action to help find him a date. A QR code on the can takes users to the landing page for the campaign at ImStillLooking.com. The beer will be released to the public in March 2023.

The campaign videos currently released can be viewed at: www.imstilllooking.com

For additional campaign content follow Explore Nash County on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/Explore.Nash.County.

PHOTO CREDIT: Leading man of the campaign, Jim Green, on the Tar River Trail. Photo by Darrell Kanipe.

Nash County Travel and Tourism Council oversees the County's travel and tourism office; with additional support provided through the Nash County Tourism Development Authority (TDA). Council and TDA membership is derived from support of various community and business leaders from across the county and immediate region.

SOURCE Explore Nash County
The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise

Wins its Fifth Consecutive Global Franchise Award at the Annual IFA Conference

CARROLLTON, Texas, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FASTSIGNS , the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise in the nation, ranked first in "Signage & Communication" for the annual Global Franchise Awards . This marks the fifth consecutive year FASTSIGNS has won this award, highlighting the brand's superb ethics, dedication and excellence as an international franchisor.

"Our franchisees work to establish FASTSIGNS as the go-to resource for visual communications in their communities and receiving this prestigious recognition for the fifth year is a testament to the strength of our growing network," said Mark Jameson, chief support and development officer at Propelled Brands. "We are thrilled to be recognized as number one in our category for both this award as well as recently in Entrepreneur magazine's highly competitive Franchise 500 list. We are proud of our entire team and thank our amazing franchisees helping us to achieve these accolades."

The Global Franchise Awards, now in its sixth year, honors exceptional franchise brands that are leaders in their respective categories. To decide the winners of these Awards, Global Franchise shortlists the applications using an independent panel of key, impartial and industry experts working to the criteria created by the Global Franchise team. Using these criteria as a guide, the judges select an entry from each category that best demonstrates the values Global Franchise is looking to celebrate.

FASTSIGNS experienced exceptional growth last year surpassing $700 million in sales for the first time. Today there are over 765 FASTSIGNS locations in eight different countries with more being awarded as new franchisees continue to join FASTSIGNS. In 2022, 20 franchises were awarded through either traditional franchise agreements or through co-brands and conversions, including four international locations. Currently, at least 400 more U.S. and Canadian markets and additional international markets are targeted for development.

"FASTSIGNS was a 'leap of faith' or a 'leap before you look' type of situation, but we have never regretted it for a single moment," said Donna Bilodeau, FASTSIGNS franchisee of Windsor, Ontario. "The support from FASTSIGNS is second to none. The corporate team is designed to assist the franchisees in making our businesses front runners in the industry. We have grown many relationships and sales over the years, and could not have done it without the support of our franchisor and the family of other franchisees."

The total investment for a FASTSIGNS franchise is approximately $233,555 - $307,308 including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, FASTSIGNS offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee -- a savings of $24,875.

To view FASTSIGNS in the full Global Franchise Award winners list, visit https://www.global-franchise.com/awards/winners .

For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson ([email protected] or 214-346-5679).

About FASTSIGNS

FASTSIGNS is a leading national visual ideas company that creates a wide variety of comprehensive sign and graphics solutions. With over 35 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps you achieve more than you ever thought possible. We are the worldwide franchisor of more than 765 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS centers. FASTSIGNS locations span across the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE). FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and through franchising awards which include being ranked #1 on Entrepreneur's Highly Competitive Franchise 500 List for the Seventh Consecutive Year for 2023 as well as being named a 2023 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, and is now the multi-brand franchisor for FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo, MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza brands.

To learn more visit fastsigns.com . Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns , Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS . For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson ([email protected] or call 214.346.5679).

SOURCE FASTSIGNS International, Inc.
Bringing Fifth Wall's total capital raised to $2.9 billion; the third

most of any venture capital firm founded in the last five years

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifth Wall announced the close of $1.5B of new funds in 2022, including a $866M Real Estate Tech Fund III , 140M European Fund and $500M Climate Fund . Since 2016, Fifth Wall has raised the third-most capital of any venture firm globally ($2.9B), according to SEC Form D filings. Separately, a Fifth Wall affiliate raised $620M between two SPACs, including FWAA, which completed a merger with the Fifth Wall portfolio company SmartRent in 2021, and FWAC, which announced a merger with Mobile Infrastructure Corporation in 2022. In addition, Fifth Wall grew its team to 75 investment professionals across five offices in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, and recently opened Singapore office.

Fifth Wall is the largest and most active investor in real estate tech (or "PropTech"). Today, the firm's funds represent 64% of capital raised for dedicated PropTech funds. In addition to its PropTech funds, Fifth Wall recently started investing in Climate Tech to decarbonize the global real estate industry, raising $740M across early-stage and growth stage funds. Separately, the firm launched its climate infrastructure strategy led by Alok Sindher. Fifth Wall is also today's largest VC fund that is a certified B Corp.

Since the launch of its first $212M fund in May 2017, Fifth Wall has benefited from the explosive growth of PropTech and Climate Tech, which each now represent some of the largest venture capital categories. The firm became an early investor in many successful PropTech companies including Aurora Solar , VTS , and Lessen which recently acquired SMS Assist in the largest PropTech M&A transaction in history. In addition, Fifth Wall has invested in six companies that have gone public such as Procore which recently became an investor in the firm's Real Estate Tech Fund III Opendoor , Blend , Doma , Hippo , and SmartRent which completed a merger with Fifth Wall-sponsored FWAA in 2021. Nine of the Firm's portfolio companies became unicorns in 2022, including Bilt , Cargomatic , ICON , Material Bank , ONE , SOURCE , Turntide Technologies , Veev , and VTS , totaling more than 25 portfolio companies that have become unicorns since Fifth Wall's inception.

Founded in North America, Fifth Wall has rapidly expanded internationally with its European Fund, London and Singapore offices, and more than 110 strategic Limited Partners who represent some of today's largest real estate owners from 15 different countries such as DAMAC (United Arab Emirates), British Land (United Kingdom), MERLIN Properties (Spain), MITSUBISHI ESTATE CO., LTD. (Japan) and NZ Super Fund (New Zealand), among many others. Fifth Wall boasts strategic Limited Partners from each major asset class across the real estate value chain, including Industrial ( Prologis ), Retail ( Macerich ), Multifamily ( Camden Property Trust ), Single Family ( Invitation Homes ), Homebuilding ( Lennar ), Healthcare ( Physicians Realty Trust ), Hotels ( Hilton ), Services ( CBRE ), and Listings ( News Corp / Move, Inc. ), among others.

"Fifth Wall was fortunate to be one of the first venture funds to identify the secular collision between the two largest industries in the U.S., real estate and technology. Because of our consistent track record of investing in category-leading businesses at this intersection, we have been able to meaningfully participate in fiscal as well as strategic value that has been created in what we today call PropTech," shared Brendan Wallace , Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Fifth Wall. "Our position at the driver's seat in part comes from pioneering a unique model of boasting the largest real estate organizations in the world as our Limited Partners, because they are the biggest customers and end-users of the companies that we are investing in."

Fifth Wall's Inception

Fifth Wall was founded by Wallace and Brad Greiwe in a Philz Coffee shop in Santa Monica, when they were in their early 30's. A graduate of Princeton, Wallace began his career with Goldman Sachs' and Blackstone's real estate groups before going on to found two successful companies out of Stanford Business School, including one that was sold to Workday. Similarly, Greiwe, a Harvard graduate, started his career in investment banking at UBS and private equity with Tishman Speyer as well as Starwood Capital Group, before co-founding and serving as CTO for Invitation Homes, the largest owner of single family homes within the United States and now an investor in Fifth Wall's PropTech and Climate Tech funds.

Fifth Wall was founded on an unproven idea, as no institutional-scale funds existed in PropTech and no funds had attracted real estate corporates as Limited Partners in 2016. After closing its first $75M that grew to $212M, the firm gained momentum, investing in many startups that have since become synonymous with PropTech such as Blend , Doma , Hippo , Lessen , Opendoor , and VTS . Its investments in 2016 to 2018 have already returned a net amount of more than $493M to-date to investors.

In turn, Fifth Wall became synonymous with PropTech and is sought out by leading entrepreneurs and venture capital funds to help accelerate their businesses through the Firm's distribution lanes which grew from seven to more than 110 Limited Partners in seven years across every major subsector of the real estate industry. The firm followed up its $212M Fund I with its $503M Fund II and $866 Fund III, each of which were the largest PropTech funds at the time they closed.

Fifth Wall earned the reputation as a firm that can accelerate its portfolio companies through partnerships with its strategic Limited Partner base, among the Firm's most notable partnerships is Opendoor & Lennar .

"What makes Fifth Wall's model so powerful is that it delivers specific, differentiated value through its unmatched network of real estate relationships with many of the most influential firms in North America and globally," stated Max Simkoff , Founder & CEO of Doma, a Fifth Wall portfolio company that acquired North American Titlea subsidiary of Fifth Wall Limited Partner, Lennarin 2019.

In addition to its numerous funds, Fifth Wall IPO'ed $620M across two SPACs, "FWAA" and "FWAC." FWAA merged with the Firm's portfolio company SmartRent, which included a $150M PIPE from Fifth Wall's Limited Partners and SmartRent's customers including Lennar. FWAC, recently announced its merger with Mobile Infrastructure Corporation.

Fifth Wall leveraged its leadership position in PropTech to build its Climate business, which emerged as the largest investor in tech to decarbonize the built environment, raising $740M. The Firm has invested in pioneering Climate Tech businesses such as Ascend Elements , Electric Hydrogen , RoadRunner , Runwise , SPAN , and Sealed , as well as announced Alok Sindher as a Partner to expand into infrastructure investing.

About Fifth Wall

Founded in 2016, Fifth Wall, a Certified B Corporation, is the largest venture capital firm focused on technology for the global real estate industry. With approximately $3.2B in commitments and capital under management, Fifth Wall connects many of the world's largest owners and operators of real estate with the entrepreneurs who are redefining the future of the Built World. Fifth Wall is backed by a global mix of more than 110 strategic Limited Partners from more than 15 countries, including BNP Paribas Real Estate, British Land, CBRE, Cushman & Wakefield, Hilton, Hines, Host Hotels & Resorts, Ivanhoe Cambridge, Kimco Realty Corporation, Lennar, Lowe's Home Improvement, Marriott International, MetLife Investment Management, MGM Resorts, Starwood Capital, Toll Brothers, and others. Fifth Wall believes this consortium represents one of the largest groups of potential partners in the global Built World ecosystem, which can result in transformational investments and collaborations with promising portfolio companies as well as decarbonization technologies. For more info about Fifth Wall, its Limited Partners, and portfolio, visit www.fifthwall.com.

SOURCE Fifth Wall
This is another step in the advancement and development of the Israeli capital market that aims to encourage innovation and competition, while mitigating the risks and protecting the customers

TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE: TASE) publishes today a draft for public comments for approval of the expansion of the authorized activities of Non-Banking Members (NBMs) to include trading in Cryptocurrency.

The Cryptocurrency market has experienced turmoils over the past year, which have brought material changes in Crypto activity, as more regulated institutions take part in this activity. Those turmoils emphasize the need for regulation in this sector, in view of the rapid development of the Cryptocurrency sector over the recent years and the greater involvement of customers in this sector, accompanied by a growing demand from customers to transfer money originating in this activity into their accounts. This requires regulation that will mitigate the various risks (operational, legal, cyber and other) that are inherent in Cryptocurrency activity.

Protection of the Customers as an Intrinsic Component of the Structure of Activity

The proposed structure will enable the customer to deposit money (Fiat money) that are designated for investment in crypto currency and withdraw monies originating from those currencies in the following manner: the NBM will contact two functions - the first, a licensed provider of Cryptocurrency trading services, and the second, a licensed provider of custodial services for those currencies. In order to purchase the Crypto currency, the customer will deposit in its account with the NBM monies in traditional currency (NIS or foreign currency) (Fiat money) that will be deposited in an omnibus account of the NBM with the provider of the trading services (similarly to the activity in foreign securities). Upon receiving an order to buy Cryptocurrency from the customer, the purchase will be executed using the money deposited in the omnibus account, as mentioned above, and will be recorded in the customer's account with the NBM. When the customer gives an order to sell the Cryptocurrency, the provider of trading services will sell the coins and credit the NBM's omnibus account by the amount of consideration (Fiat money) received and thereafter the consideration will be transferred into the customer's account with the NBM.

Regulation in Israel

The report, "Regulation of the Digital Assets Sector - Roadmap to a Policy", published by the Chief Economist in the Ministry of Finance this last November, as part of a large-scale study involving all financial regulators, including the Israel Securities Authority, the Capital Market Authority and the Bank of Israel, indicates that the current regulatory approach in Israel, and in certain other countries, is to impose regulation on financial activities or services in digital assets similarly to that currently applied to non-digital assets, taking into consideration the non-traditional and unique characteristics of this sector.

Global Regulation

The regulation and supervision of Cryptocurrency service providers are still in the making. International authorities recommend a State regulation that will apply global standards and guidelines also to the digital currency sector, as reflected in the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the recommendations of the International Monetary Fund. Centralized processes for the regulation of this activity in the United States and in the European Union are in various stages of progress.

In the State of New York, regulation over virtual currencies has already been instituted in 2015, and service providers in those currencies are supervised by the New York State Department of Financial Services. The NYDFS imposes specialized stringent regulation on institutions operating in the sector, which are required to apply for a dedicated license to operate ("BitLicense"). As part of the regulation, the NYDFS publishes a public list of Cryptocurrencies that are authorized for activity by licensed institutions.

The TASE staff prioritizes the regulation and advancement of the trading in Cryptocurrency as a means to upgrading the Israeli capital market in line with international standards, as well the ability of NBMs to expand their areas of activity and the ability of their customers to trade in Cryptocurrency. TASE believes that the alignment of local regulation with international regulation will attract more foreign investments and foreign investors into the Israeli market, while at the same time will enable the Israeli public to invest locally, through supervised institutions. This move will facilitate the development and advancement of the Israeli capital market and encourage innovation and competition, while addressing the risks that are inherent in this activity. Within this framework, TASE proposes an amendment to the TASE Rules that will permit NBMs to allow their customers to transact in Cryptocurrency.

A proposal for public comments on this issue was posted this morning on TASE's MAYA system. Upon receipt of comments from the public, the proposal will be submitted for approval by the TASE Board of Directors.

Contact:

Orna Goren

Head of Communication and Public Relations Unit

Tel: +972 76 8160405

[email protected]

SOURCE The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange Ltd.
Knight Watch to Make Schools Safer with Security Upgrades

KALAMAZOO, Mich., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In 2022, US Lawmakers approved funding for schools to create a safer environment. A federal bill would provide $1 Billion towards this effort with an additional $300 Million allocated for equipment and training. School districts looking to upgrade their current systems or refresh with a new infrastructure altogether should align their long-term goals with the right partner in mind.

With trends gravitating towards cloud-based systems, vape-detection, lockdown features, and integration between video and access, schools can be at the forefront for safety for students and staff. Amber Weeks, Global Business Development Director at Knight Watch, stated "Facial recognition analytics built into the video surveillance systems would also benefit schools. This feature allows the school district to blacklist a person who has proven to be a threat." Weeks mentioned that 180-degree perimeter detection and additional coverage in drop-off locations is also essential for student and staff safety.

The focus is expected to be on the integration between video surveillance and access control. With these integrations, schools can pre-assign permissions to their local law enforcement agencies  granting authorities to track the threat as it moves and better execute a safe and reliable action plan. In addition to video and access control, there is an expected uptick in lockdown equipment and procedure requests.

Finding the right security consultant that provides options for manufacturers and products is important; however, it's not the only component. Amber Weeks stated, "Never walk into a project with a manufacturer in mind; you need to listen to the customer and determine the best fit based on their needs." Assisting each district or campus by formulating a secure process will also contribute to ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff. While having the proper equipment is necessary, having a thorough process in place is critical.

About Knight Watch: Knight Watch is a global technology solution and products provider with extensive teams of engineers, project managers, and IT staff across cloud, security, and data center infrastructure to help accelerate your business through secure technology transformation. Knight Watch is passionate about making your business thrive. Using years of experience in technology and engineering, Knight Watch helps you achieve the outcomes you need to grow. Learn more at www.knightwatch.net.

SOURCE Knight Watch Inc
Garnier Nutrisse Is Only Getting Better as it Expands Barrymore's Role with the Brand to Include Hair Color

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Global beauty brand announced the appointment of Drew Barrymore as Brand Ambassador for Garnier Nutrisse, an expansion to her current role with the Garnier portfolio.

Drew Barrymore on the set of her first Garnier Nutrisse commercial Drew Barrymore on the set of her first Garnier Nutrisse commercial Drew Barrymore on the set of her first Garnier Nutrisse commercial Drew Barrymore on the set of her first Garnier Nutrisse commercial

A self-proclaimed avid at-home hair dyer, Barrymore's role debuts with a creative campaign highlighting Garnier Nutrisse's new and improved Nourishing Color Creme formula for nourished hair and better color, featuring five fruit oils: avocado, olive, shea, argan, and coconut oil. The creative underscores her love for efficacious, easy-to-use products and incorporates tips she's gained through trial-and-error including using the brand's shade selector tool to find the best shade, opting for the lighter shade if between two shades, using two mirrors to ensure full and even coverage, as well as rinsing with cold water to avoid color fading.

"It's no secret that I've been a Nutrisse user for years. I'm excited to expand my role with Garnier and share my love of the new Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme," says Barrymore. "I've been just about every hair color under the sun, and the updated formula provides a fab shade that cares while it colors and is so easy to master on your own. My favorite is shade 70 because it's super rich and covers my grays."

"We're delighted to see our partnership with Drew Barrymore expand into hair color," said Garnier's Senior Vice President, Ali Fakih. "She is more than a spokesperson for us  she is a true advocate, with the ability to connect and relate to her audience in a way rarely seen in the celebrity world. Her affinity for hair color, and her 'do it myself' nature, made for the perfect choice as our Garnier Nutrisse Brand Ambassador."

The creative will begin running on February 27, 2023, and includes TV, digital, and social media content.

Powered with Color Boost Technology, Nutrisse Ultra Creme Nourishing Permanent Color covers 100% of grays and nourishes while it colors, resulting in two times shinier, silkier hair for improved richer color.* Available in over 30 shades for every hair texture, the brand's online shade selector includes a one-minute hair shade quiz to find and virtually try on the perfect Garnier hair color products for you, making at-home hair color easier than ever.

Garnier Nutrisse products are available at food and mass drugstores nationwide. For more information on Garnier, the new and improved Nutrisse Nourishing Color Creme formula, and Garnier's partnership with Drew Barrymore, please visit www.garnierusa.com.

About Nutrisse Ultra Creme

Nutrisse Ultra Creme Nourishing Permanent Color nourishes as it colors for 2x shinier, silkier and nourished hair vs. uncolored, unwashed hair. Garnier Nutrisse comes with a fruit oil ampoule that you pour directly into the mix. Our nourishing after color conditioner is infused with five responsibly-sourced oils-- avocado, olive, coconut, argan and shea. The new ColorBoost technology efficiently infuses intense dyes into the hair fiber for richer, radiant, and long-lasting color with 100% gray coverage.

About Garnier USA

Garnier, a L'Oreal USA brand, was developed in 1904 in France by hair care expert Alfred Amour Garnier and is now present in more than 65 countries worldwide. Following the launch of Garnier in the United States in 1999 with Nutrisse hair color, the brand has continued to develop cutting-edge beauty products. The entire collection of Garnier brands available in the U.S. includes Nutrisse hair color, Fructis hair care, and Fructis Style, Olia hair color, SkinActive, and Whole Blends hair care. For more information visit www.garnierusa.com or follow us on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, TikTok, and Snapchat @GarnierUSA.

For press inquiries please contact

Elizabeth Hanigan

Brand Engagement, Garnier

212.984.4960

[email protected]

Lauren Larkin or Donna Valle

Alison Brod Marketing Communications

212.230.1800

[email protected]

*vs unwashed, uncolored hair

SOURCE Garnier
ATLANTA and TOLEDO, Ohio, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gentiva, a dedicated hospice, palliative, and personal care company driving improved access, equity, and quality of care for patients, and ProMedica, an integrated healthcare organization providing, in part, hospice and home care services through its Heartland brand, today announced that they have signed a definitive agreement under which Gentiva will acquire Heartland hospice and home care agencies/locations from ProMedica.

"This transaction is an exciting development for patients and their families that will enable us to extend our best-in-class caregiver recruitment and retention programs and provide high-quality care to more patients in more areas throughout the country," said David Causby, president and chief executive officer of Gentiva. "Gentiva consistently achieves industry-leading quality of care and patient family satisfaction scores by investing in our people and caregiving capabilities. Heartland is a high-quality hospice and home care provider that shares our values on compliance and putting patients first, and my colleagues and I look forward to growing our number of caregivers so we can expand access to the highest-quality care for more seniors."

Gentiva is a trusted provider of hospice, palliative, and personal care with over 30,000 associates and caregivers taking care of more than 24,000 patients on average each day across 36 states. Gentiva's leading caregiver recruitment and retention programs have resulted in 96% of Gentiva's patients' families being willing to recommend Gentiva and an average nurse-to-patient staffing ratio of 1:9, which is superior to the hospice industry average of 13 to 15 patients per nurse.1 Heartland is a well-regarded hospice and home care provider that shares Gentiva's culture of and commitment to high-quality patient care and compliance. Gentiva's growth strategy with Heartland will continue to be predicated on hiring and investing in more caregivers and ensuring the continued provision of high-quality care to patients across its expanded service area.

"As part of the Gentiva family, the Heartland agencies will be well-positioned to continue providing compassionate care that prioritizes patient comfort, dignity, and well-being throughout the care continuum," said Arturo Polizzi, president and chief executive officer of ProMedica. "For ProMedica, this transaction is an important step toward simplifying our organizational structure and ensuring our long-term financial strength. We are pleased to be able to transition these agencies to a trusted industry leader, enabling ProMedica to commit more time, energy, and resources to our core operations."

Mr. Causby continued: "As a licensed nurse, I understand firsthand the pressures caregivers across the United States are facing. We are focused on developing systems and processes that address and overcome these challenges to remain an employer of choice, and I am excited to welcome Heartland's caregivers to our family as we continue to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients in the markets we serve."

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions and state and federal regulatory approvals.

Goldman Sachs Bank USA is providing financing to Gentiva. Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., UBS Investment Bank, BNP Paribas Securities Corp., Citizens Bank, N.A., Truist Securities and Wells Fargo are serving as financial advisors and providing financing, and Debevoise & Plimpton LLP and Ropes & Gray LLP are serving as legal counsel to Gentiva. Houlihan Lokey is serving as financial advisor and BakerHostetler is serving as legal counsel to ProMedica.

About Gentiva

Gentiva is a dedicated hospice, palliative, and personal care company driving improved access, equity, and quality of care for patients. Gentiva's employees and caregivers are dedicated to offering clarity, comfort, and companionship while delivering high-quality care to all patients. The company operates in over 430 locations across 36 states. Its team includes more than 30,000 associates, including 8,000 hospice caregivers who provide unique, specialized care to thousands of patients in the communities Gentiva serves. For more information on Gentiva, visit gentivahs.com

About ProMedica

ProMedica is a mission-based, not-for-profit health and well-being organization headquartered in Toledo, Ohio. The organization offers acute and ambulatory care, an insurance company with a dental plan, and post-acute and academic business lines. The organization has 12 hospitals, 2,500+ physicians and advanced practice providers with privileges, 1,000+ health care providers employed by ProMedica Physicians, a health plan, and assisted living facilities, skilled nursing centers, memory care communities, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and hospice, home health and palliative care agencies. Driven by its mission to improve health and well-being, ProMedica has been nationally recognized for its advocacy programs and efforts to address social determinants of health. For more information about ProMedica, visit promedica.org/aboutus.

1 BerryDunn, "National Healthcare at Home Best Practices and Future Insights Study," 28, (BerryDunn, 2022). https://advisors.berrydunn.com/home-study.

SOURCE Gentiva
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Agrigenomics Market, Purpose, Sequencer Type, Application, Region: Competition Forecast and Opportunities to 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global agrigenomics market is anticipated to observe impressive growth during the forecast period, 2023-2027. The major factors include increasing number of DNA/RNA sequencing project grants, and technological developments in the field of genomics and agriculture. The rapid advancements in genomic sector such as the use of massively parallel sequencing technologies and the growth of protocols to efficiently analyze cellular behavior at the molecular level are driving the market globally.

The other factors supporting the market's growth are rising investments on research and developments activities by government, preference for organic food products, increasing cultivation of hybrid crops and more spending on food & beverages businesses upsurge the agrigenomics industry demand in the upcoming years.



Demand for Organic Food Products



The rise for organic food products among masses across the globe acts as one of the key factors propelling the growth of agrigenomics market. The high demand for bioengineered crop because of great properties such as enhanced nutritional values, prolonged shelf life, ability to sustain against climate change and use for medicinal objectives such as development of vaccines and drugs are propelling the growth of the market.



Rising demand for DNA Sequencing in Livestock and Crops



Rise in demand for genome sequencing in livestock has enable the study of parent lineage and for the better understanding the characteristics of infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria. The advancement in DNA sequencing technology is helping the researchers to study the mutations in infectious agents over a duration, which helps to know the transmission patterns. Moreover, outbreak of diseases can be controlled among livestock through these studies and the productivity is enhanced.



Tools and Techniques for Advanced Genome Analysis



Rapid developments in the functional genomics sector, such as the implementation of massively parallel sequencing technology and the advancement in methodologies to effectively analyze cellular behavior at the molecular level are driving the growth of the agrigenomics market, globally. When genomics is applied for crop selection speed, scope, and efficiency, molecular marker-assisted crop breeding is preferred over conventional breeding methods. Enhanced genome characterization tools have discovered that crops can have higher yield and quality while using less herbicides, water, pests, and fertilizers. For instance, in 2020, the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity in the U.S. awarded a grant of USD 23 million to the Harvard University, DNA Script, and Broad Institute. In terms of livestock, the novel technologies are known to significantly improvise the desirable traits, such as meat quality, reproductive life, and milk yield.



Market Segmentation



Agrigenomics Market, by Purpose:

DNA Extraction & Purification

DNA/RNA Sequencing

Genotyping

Gene Expression Profiling

GMO/Trait Purity Testing

Others

Agrigenomics Market, by Sequencer Type:

GMO/Trait Purity Testing

Sanger Sequencing

Pacbio Sequencers

Solid Sequencers

Illumina HI SEQ Family

Others

Agrigenomics Market, by Application:

Livestock

Crops

Agrigenomics Market, by Region:

North America

Asia-Pacific

Europe & CIS

& CIS South America

Middle East & Africa

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Illumina, Inc.

Thermo Fischer Scientific, Inc.

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Eurofins Scientific SE

LGC Limited

Tecan Genomics, Inc.

Neogen Corporation

Galseq Srl Via Italia

Biogenetic Services' Inc.

Daicel Arbor Biosciences

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rfg8p5

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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SOURCE Research and Markets
NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A latest research report [115+] pages with 360-Degree visibility, titled "Bioprocess Validation Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, By Testing Type (Extractables & Leachables Testing, Bioprocess Residuals Testing), By Stage, By Mode, By Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2023-2032" published by Polaris Market Research in its research repository.

According to the research report, the global bioprocess validation market size was valued at USD 407.80 million in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 993.22 Million in 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period of 2023-2032.

What is Bioprocess Validation? How Big is Bioprocess Validation Market Size?

Overview

Bioprocess validation is the process of documenting all procedures, activities, and evidence of the process of biological and biopharmaceutical product formation. The rapidly rising demand for the bioprocess validation market can be attributed to the maintenance of compliance in all stages of product testing procedures. The assessment of APIs and impurities is a crucial part of bioprocess validation.

Increasing awareness about the advantages of biopharmaceutical drugs and the growing number of CROs and CDMOs, the favorable government initiatives to promote the growth of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries in several countries are propelling the market growth during the forecast period.

Request Sample Copy of Bioprocess Validation Market Research Report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/bioprocess-validation-market/request-for-sample

(The sample of this report is readily available on request. The report sample contains a brief introduction to the research report, Table of Contents, Graphical introduction of regional analysis, Top players in the market with their revenue analysis and our research methodology.)

Our Sample Report May Includes:

2032 Updated Report Introduction, Overview, and In-depth industry analysis.

115+ Pages Research Report (Inclusion of Updated Research).

Provide Chapter-wise guidance on Request.

2023 Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share & Trends.

Includes Updated List of table & figures.

Updated Report Includes Top Market Players with their Business Strategy, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis.

Key data covered in the market report

Provides niche insights for the decision about every possible segment helping in the strategic decision-making process.

Market size estimation of the market on a regional and global basis.

A unique research design for market size estimation and forecast.

Identification of major companies operating in the market with related developments.

Exhaustive scope to cover all the possible segments helping every stakeholder.

Some of the Top Market Players Are:

Eurofins Scientific

Charles River Laboratories

Sartorius

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Lonza

Danaher Corporation

SGS

Merck

Toxikon Corporation

Cobetter Filtration Equipment

To know an additional revised list of top market players, request to download a PDF brochure, 2023-2032: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/bioprocess-validation-market/request-for-sample

Key factors driving market growth

Sticking to the requirements of the government's regulation to push the market

In the pharmaceutical sector, compliance with the standard of different regulatory bodies is essential, which is why process validation is an integrated process in pharmaceuticals. The Bioprocess validation market size is expanding as validation verifies that all procedures stick to stated requirements by the government's regulation. Any validation method requires exhaustive documentation that conforms to standard operating procedures and ongoing activities. Pharmaceutical manufacturing is being outsourced to third-party service providers to raise production yields.

The implementation of a single-use bioprocessing system enhances manufacturing processes' productivity by reducing automation's costs and complexity. Bioprocess validation market sales are soaring as it eliminates the requirement for changeover cleaning between consecutive operations. In addition, single-use bioprocessing systems eliminate the need for additional investments by removing the requirement for sterilization.

Request for a Discount on this Report Before Purchase @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/bioprocess-validation-market/request-for-discount-pricing

Recent trends influencing the market

A rise in disposable income to drive the market

With a rise in disposable income and the implementation of new testing services legislation, several undiscovered markets for bioprocess validation services may emerge in developing nations. As a result of the lower manufacturing costs and higher output, countries such as India and China are becoming new industrial hubs. Asia's rapid industrialization and economic growth are predicted to significantly impact the market and provide growth opportunities.

and are becoming new industrial hubs. rapid industrialization and economic growth are predicted to significantly impact the market and provide growth opportunities. Food and Drug Administration document guidelines on general principles of process validation defined process validation as constructing documented evidence to provide a high degree of assurance that a particular process will consistently produce a product meeting its predetermined specifications and quality attributes.

Segmentation assessment

Bioprocess residual testing segment holds the majority market share

Based on testing type, the bioprocess residual testing segment holds the majority of the market share. Bioprocess validation market demand is on the rise as impurities are tested as residual impurities, including buffer contents, anti-foam agents, and upstream and downstream impurities resulting from cell culture. Drugs, vaccines, and therapeutic goods produced by the biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals, and pharmaceutical sectors are in high demand because they must be impurity-free, secure and of high quality.

The continued process verification segment is expected to have the maximum market share

Based on the stage, the continued process verification segment is expected to have the maximum market share in the forecast period. Data collection, storage, processing, and analysis for each batch are all included in the process segment that continues to be verified. Additionally, this process' automation fosters sector expansion. For instance, the most crucial stage of bioprocess validation is process design. To operate a process effectively, strict procedures with concepts and paths for the manufacturing process are essential.

Bioprocess Validation Market: Report Scope

Report Attribute Details Revenue forecast in 2032 USD 993.22 Million Market size value in 2023 USD 444.67 Million Expected CAGR Growth 7.4% from 2023  2032 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023 - 2032 Top Market Players Eurofins Scientific, Inc., Sartorius AG, Merck KGaA, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Lonza, Danaher Corporation, Charles River Laboratories, SGS S.A., Toxikon Corporation, Cobetter Filtration Equipment Co., Ltd. Segments Covered By Testing Type, By Stage, By Mode, By Region Customization Options Customized purchase options are available to meet any research needs. Explore customized purchase options

Geographic Overview

Growth in biologics manufacturing to propel the North American market

North America held the largest bioprocess validation market share due to significant outsourcing services. This causes growth in biologics manufacturing and life sciences research which fuels the world market. Furthermore, North America's biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries have received FDA approval. Additionally, the sector is boosted by increased government financing for clinical studies and the bioprocess validation process.

Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest growth rate over the study period. This results from developments, rising healthcare costs, and financing for R&D established by government organizations. The government initiative for expanding and developing the biopharmaceutical industry in the Asia Pacific region is further supported by increased knowledge of the advantages of vaccines and biopharmaceutical medications to treat chronic diseases.

Browse the Detail Report "Bioprocess Validation Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, By Testing Type (Extractables & Leachables Testing, Bioprocess Residuals Testing), By Stage, By Mode, By Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2023-2032" with in-depth TOC: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/bioprocess-validation-market

For Additional Information OR Media Enquiry, Please Mail At: [email protected]

Recent Developments

In September 2022 , Danaher Corporation announced a merger with Cytiva & Pall to create a Bioprocess juggernaut worth USD 7.5 Billion . This merger intends to build this sector's "broadest" and "deepest" product portfolio. The development of the broadest portfolio includes the creation of an entire end-to-end workflow, including the cleanroom, the shell, the building, and the attachments.

, Danaher Corporation announced a merger with Cytiva & Pall to create a Bioprocess juggernaut worth . This merger intends to build this sector's "broadest" and "deepest" product portfolio. The development of the broadest portfolio includes the creation of an entire end-to-end workflow, including the cleanroom, the shell, the building, and the attachments. In June 2022 , Jefferson Institute for Bioprocessing and Plymouth Group announced to provide their training program at Budd Bioworks. This partnership will create opportunities to support the life science sector in Philadelphia .

Polaris Market Research has segmented the bioprocess validation market report based on testing type, stage, mode, and region:

By Testing Type Outlook

Extractable & Leachables Testing

Bioprocess Residuals Testing

Viral Clearance Testing

Filtration & Fermentation Systems Testing

Others

By Stage Outlook

Process Design

Process Qualification

Continued Process Verification

By Mode Outlook

In House

Outsourced

By Region Outlook

North America (U.S., Canada )

(U.S., ) Europe ( France , Germany , UK, Italy , Netherlands , Spain , Russia )

( , , UK, , , , ) Asia Pacific ( Japan , China , India , Malaysia , Indonesia . South Korea )

( , , , , . ) Latin America ( Brazil , Mexico , Argentina )

( , , ) Middle East & Africa ( Saudi Arabia , UAE, Israel , South Africa )

About Polaris Market Research

Polaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for PMR's clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve PMR's diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. We strive to provide PMR's customers with updated information on innovative technologies, high growth markets, emerging business environments and latest business-centric applications, thereby helping them always to make informed decisions and leverage new opportunities. Adept with a highly competent, experienced and extremely qualified team of experts comprising SMEs, analysts and consultants, we at Polaris endeavor to deliver value-added business solutions to PMR's customers.

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SOURCE Polaris Market Research
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Electronic Skin Patches Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global electronic skin patches market is expected to reach a value of $28.82 billion by 2027 from $9.57 billion in 2021, growing at a CAGR of 20.17% during 2022-2027.

The significant factors contributing to the growth of the electronic skin patches market include the rise in the need for continuous monitoring of physiological parameters, growing penetration of wearable devices and mobile platforms for healthcare monitoring, development of innovative skin patches, high demand for remote patient monitoring, an emerging trend of digital tattoos, presence of supporting initiatives and reimbursement policies, and a growing number of start-ups developing electronic skin patches.

Electronic skin patches anchor a device on the patient's or user's skin to achieve a specific function. These patches are attached to a user's skin and incorporated with sensors, actuators, processors, and communication technology, which allow the device to connect to the internet and turn it smart. Several significant application areas are now profoundly impacting health and quality of life. In particular, cardiovascular monitoring and diabetes management has been growing exponentially to create billions of annual revenues.

Electronic skin patches are one of the latest waves in health monitoring; their non-intrusive design means they are comfortable and discrete. These patches include sweat, axillary temperature, motion, biopotential (TENS, EMS) patches, and devices across various sectors and product categories. In cardiovascular monitoring, these devices range from traditional ECG options and monitoring devices for inpatients and outpatients to specific products such as Holter monitors, mobile cardiac telemetry devices, and other event monitors.

MARKET TRENDS & OPPORTUNITIES

Growing Number of Start-ups and Rise in the Development of Innovative Skin Patches

With the growing demand for technological innovations in the healthcare field, several start-ups are emerging to stay ahead of the technology curve to strengthen their competitive advantage in the electronic skin patches market. A few interesting start-ups and universities are working to bring advanced electronic skin sensor patches into the market.

For instance, XSENSIO SA has developed next-generation wearable devices to track biochemical information on the wearer's skin surface. Scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology have developed wireless wearable devices for measuring heart rate, electrocardiogram, respiratory rate, and motion activity. Some scientists have also developed a flexible, wearable patch detecting blood-alcohol levels from the user's sweat.

High Need for Constant Physiological Monitoring and Treatment for Hospitalized Patients

The growing burden of acute or chronic conditions has increased the need for continuous monitoring of both inpatients and outpatients. The major causes of death worldwide are due to heart diseases, cancers, diabetes, chronic lower respiratory syndrome, stroke, cerebrovascular diseases, viral infections, and others.

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide, taking around 17.9 million lives each year. This increased the number of patients needing to constantly monitor heart rate, pulse rate, electrocardiogram, and other parameters related to the heart. The electronic skin patches market has emerged to monitor such physiological parameters for heart-related diseases and various other conditions.

Remote Patient Monitoring Driving the Adoption of Electronic Skin Patches

Remote patient monitoring uses innovative technology tools to collect and track patient data outside standard medical settings. With an increase in the prevalence of various diseases, many healthcare providers are shifting to implementing remote patient monitoring, especially in conditions such as elderly patients, pandemics, and others.

The adoption of remote patient monitoring is increasing the use of electronic skin patches to transfer patient information directly to the healthcare provider or enter into the electronic medical records boosting the electronic skin patches market. Cardiology was one of the first therapy areas to introduce remote patient monitoring into standard practice. This sector streamlines doctor-hospital visits by remotely switching monitors between compact cardiac monitoring devices during the monitoring period.

Increase in Adoption of Healthcare Applications & Smart Wearables

Many users are increasingly adopting connected wearable medical devices due to their various advantages, such as continuous monitoring, prediction of health problems and providing alerts, a collection of detailed real-time longitudinal data, and helping educate and empower patients to take control of their health.

These devices are being incorporated and connected to electronic skin patches, providing ease of use, and contributing to the growth of the global electronic skin patch market. Software applications in mobiles or smart watches are associated with these patches to send data directly and help monitor the users' health.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE



The competitive landscape in the global electronic skin patch market is currently intensifying due to the rapidly changing technological environment in the healthcare industry. Vendors operating the market are pursuing various strategies to provide the impetus for growth over the next few years.



These market participants adopt collaboration, partnerships, mergers, acquisitions, product launches, and other strategies. For instance, Philips acquired BioTelemetry, a leading player in the mobile cardiac telemetry market, in February 2021.



Large medical device companies are adopting an acquisition strategy to invest or partner with many emerging vendors to diversify their product portfolio and strengthen their presence in the overall market. For instance, iRhythm Technologies deployed ZioAT and ZioXT virtual platforms to help doctors treat a patient's heart using telemetry during the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020.



The global electronic skin patches market is likely to get highly dynamic with the presence of major international, regional, and a handful of local vendors offering electronic skin patches. Abbott, Dexcom, General Electric Company, and Koninklijke Philips are vendors that contributed to a major share of the global electronic skin patches market.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

INSIGHTS BY APPLICATION



The global electronic skin patches market based on applications includes diabetes management, general patient monitoring, cardiovascular monitoring, and others. Diabetes management accounts for the highest share of 43.51% and is estimated to reach USD 18.10 billion by 2027 in the global market.

INSIGHTS BY END-USER



Based on the end-user, the global electronic skin patches market includes home care settings, hospitals, physician offices & specialty clinics, and others. In 2021, home care settings accounted for the global market's highest share of 42.80%.

GEOGRAPHICAL OVERVIEW



North America accounts for the highest share of 47.59% in the global electronic skin patches market.

North America is the major revenue contributor in the global market due to various factors involved in its growth that including the rising prevalence of cardiac disorders and diabetes, the presence of advanced healthcare infrastructure, a rise of wearable devices for healthcare monitoring, a surge in the use of IoT based applications, miniaturization of sensors used in medical devices, a growing trend for maintaining personal health and fitness, and growing demand for skin patches for drug delivery.



Further, the U.S. accounts for 94.11% of North America's electronic skin patches market share. The growing demand for electronic skin patches across the country is likely growing with the rise in chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, which require constant monitoring of various parameters such as heart rate, blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and others. Due to this, most patients are using electronic skin patches that help monitor various physiological factors.



Europe has the second largest revenue share compared to other regions owing to the highly sophisticated healthcare infrastructure and high adoption and awareness of the advantages of electronic skin patches over conventional monitoring options.

APAC is likely to be an emerging region in the global electronic skin patches market, with most people focusing on maintaining their physical health and continuously monitoring their physiological parameters. Latin America, the Middle East & Africa accounted for minimal shares in the global electronic skin patches market.

Market Dynamics

Premium Insights

Growing Number of Startups & Innovative Skin Patches

High Need for Constant Physiological Monitoring & Treatment for Hospitalized Patients

Remote Patient Monitoring Driving Adoption of Electronic Skin Patches

Increase in Adoption of Healthcare Applications & Smart Wearables

Market Segmentation of Global Electronic Skin Patches Market

Competitive Landscape

Market Opportunities & Trends

Increasing Start-Ups & Universities Developing E-Skin Patches

Rise of Innovative Electronic Skin Patches

Emerging Trend of Using Digital Tattoos for Health Monitoring

High Demand for Remote Patient Monitoring

Market Growth Enablers

Rising Need for Continuous Physiological Monitoring & Treatment

Presence of Supporting Initiatives, Regulations & Reimbursement Policies

Increasing Penetration of Wearable Devices & Mobile Healthcare Platforms

Rise in Usage of Electronic Skin Patches for Drug Delivery & Cosmetics

Market Growth Restraints

Limitations Associated With Use of Electronic Skin Patches

Data Security & Privacy Issues With E-Skin Patches

High Cost of Various Electronic Skin Patches

Key Vendors

Abbott

Dexcom

General Electric Company

Koninklijke Philips N.V.

Other Prominent Vendors

Menarini Diagnostics

Bardy Diagnostics

Benware Medical

Bittium

Bloomlife

Blue Spark Technologies

BORSAM Biomedical Instruments

Boston Scientific

Cardiomo

DMS-Service

Epicore Biosystems

FUKUDA DENSHI

Gamastech

Holst Centre

Insulet

iRhythm Technologies

Isansys

LCR Hallcrest

LifeSignals

Liv ApS

Medicomp

Medidata

Medicsensors

Medtrum Technologies

Natures Frequencies

Nemaura Medical

OMRON Healthcare

Onera Technologies B.V.

PAINMASTER

QT Medical

Quad Industries

Smith+Nephew

SpotSee

The Surgical Company

Theranica Bio-Electronics

The Scott Fetzer Company

Virility Medical

VitalConnect

VivaLNK

Vivomi

WearOptimo

Xsensio

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/kvox5x-skin?w=5

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SOURCE Research and Markets
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Ready Meals Market - Forecasts from 2022 to 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global ready meals market was evaluated at US$124.013 billion in the year 2020, growing at a CAGR of 6.07% reaching the market size of US$187.305 billion by the year 2027.



The changing lifestyle among the working-class population and the shifting preference towards ready meals owing to the convenience and the easiness associated with it is driving the market growth.



One of the factors driving the market growth is attributed to the increasing workload among the corporate and the working-class individuals in the population, which has left them with lesser time to prepare meals after their hectic work hours. This has led to a change in their preference for ready meals as they are quickly cooked in less time and are more convenient to consume. Moreover, it is increasingly popular among younger individuals and the adolescent population as it acts as a cheaper substitute for junk food, and it is readily available at different convince stores and supermarkets.



There are strict guidelines concerning the quality of the ready meals that must be adhered to.



The different types of ready meals that are available in the market have to go through stringent checks and quality control checks to ensure that the product and its content will not pose harm to the consumers. This encourages the market players to manufacture and provide top-quality products to ensure that their products meet the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) guidelines so that the manufacturers do not have heavy penalties for defying the guidelines.



Product Offerings by Major Market Players in the Ready Meals Market



The market players are increasingly participating and involved in the market through offerings and product launches to cater to the rising demand for ready meals among consumers effectively and to contribute to the growth of the market over the forecast period.



Some of the examples of product offerings are as follows:

Prasuma, a company operating under the parent brand Ample Foods Pvt. Ltd., is considered one of the premium ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat meal providers and offers different types of momos/dim sums products under its portfolio. The products include original chicken, spicy chicken, original pork, and vegetables. The products are ready in 2 minutes and can be cooked in the microwave by pan-frying, deep-frying, or steaming them. In addition, there are no preservatives present in this product.

McCain Foods Limited - one of the leading companies involved in providing fried food and ready-to-eat meals globally under their different brand names, offers different products under its product portfolio. One of their brands, Celta Vita , offers Blanched potatoes in packaging sizes 2kg, 5kg, and 10kg bags. They also offer ready-to-heat potatoes. Some of the products McCain offers include " McCain French Fries ," " McCain Smiles ," "McCain Potato Bites, and "McCain Super Wedges," among others.

Frozen Food is estimated to hold a considerable share over the forecast period because it is increasingly popular among the younger generation and is available in different types of food variations.



Frozen food or frozen ready meals are types of meals that have been frozen to preserve them so that it does not get contaminated or spoilt. Frozen food has quickly gained popularity among the different sections of society, particularly among the younger and college-going population, as it is easier to prepare and takes little time.

Many popular fast food options are also available such as sausages, french fries, and burger patties, among others. In addition, the middle-aged population prefers it as it saves time and effort to prepare food when they return from their hectic jobs.



The European region is estimated to hold a significant share over the forecast period, while The Asia Pacific region is estimated to experience rapid market growth owing to the presence of many players offering diverse products in the market and launching new products in the countries such as India and China.



The increase in the workload of the working-class individuals in the European region in the countries such as the UK, Germany, and France, among others, has led to a shift in their preference towards ready meals as they take lesser time to prepare and provide increased convenience. Additionally, the demand of the consumers and the vegan population catered to the extensive participation of the market players.

For example, in October 2019, Whitworths, which is considered one of the leading seeds and nuts producers in the UK, announced that they had launched their new ready-to-eat meals product range called the "Whitworths Protein by Nature', which is a plant-based and vegan-friendly product and comes in different varieties in pouches. The product range includes Mediterranean Tabbouleh, Moroccan Tagine, and Indian Lentil Dhal, among others. The products can be prepared easily in 2 minutes.



On the other hand, the Asia Pacific is expected to hold a noteworthy share over the forecast period because there are many foods and beverage industry players involved in the provision of ready meals to the consumers, such as ITC Limited, McCain Foods Ltd., and Venkys, among others coupled with the newly launched enterprises. For example, in January 2020, NuTy, a venture under the company Tulita Adhara Ltd., announced the launch of their new extended shelf life ready to east curries and meals. These products have been made available at local retail stores as well as food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato.

Segmentation:

By Product

Frozen Ready Meals

Chilled Ready Meals

Canned Ready Meals

Dried Ready Meals

By Distribution Channel

Online

Offline

Hypermarkets

Convenience Stores

By Geography

North America

USA

Canada

Mexico

South America

Brazil

Argentina

Europe

France

Germany

Italy

Spain

United Kingdom

Middle East and Africa

and Saudi Arabia

Israel

UAE

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Australia

Indonesia

Malaysia

Thailand

Companies Mentioned

Nomad Foods Ltd

Nestle

McCain Foods Ltd

Premier Foods plc

Conagra Brands, Inc

Oetker Group

ITC Limited

Ample Foods Pvt. Ltd.

FiveStar Gourmet Foods

Kerry Group plc

General Mills, Inc.

Kellogg Company

Tyson Foods, Inc.

Unilever

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rzmnzm-ready?w=5

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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

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SOURCE Research and Markets
PUNE, India, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a recent market study published by Growth Market Reports, titled, "Sustainability Consulting Market by Service Type (Strategic Planning, Auditing & Verification, Testing, Technical Support, and Marketing), Application (Corporate Sustainability, Climate Resilience & Decarbonization, Equity & Social Inclusion, Society & Policies, Circular Economy, and Finance), End-user (Manufacturing & Processing, Mining, Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Agriculture, Energy & Utilities, Building & Construction, Food & Beverage, NGOs, Government & Regulators, and Others), and Region: Size, Share, Trends, and Opportunity Analysis, 2023-2031", the market was valued at USD 8.8 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 14.1 billion, expanding at a CAGR of 5.4% by the end of 2031. The market growth is attributed to rising environmental awareness, increasing focus on social inclusion, and strict government regulations.

Key Market Players Profiled in the Report

McKinsey & Company

Deloitte

Accenture

Ernst & Young Global Limited

Boston Consulting Group

KPMG

SGS Societe Generale de Surveillance SA

Bain & Company, Inc.

TATA Consultancy Services Limited

PA Knowledge Limited

Download PDF Sample here: https://growthmarketreports.com/request-sample/4968

The report covers comprehensive data on emerging trends, market drivers, growth opportunities, and restraints that can change the market dynamics of the industry. It provides an in-depth analysis of the market segments which include service type, application, and competitor analysis.

This report also includes a complete analysis of sustainability consulting industry players and covers their latest developments, product portfolio, pricing, mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations. Moreover, it provides crucial strategies that are helping market players to expand their market share.

Highlights on the Segments of the Sustainability Consulting Market

In terms of service type, the market is classified as strategic planning, auditing & verification, testing, technical support, and marketing. The strategic planning segment is anticipated to expand at a sustainable CAGR during the forecast period. The rising requirements for sustainability strategizing across global corporations is one of the major factors boosting segment growth.

Based on application, the global sustainability consulting market is segmented into corporate sustainability, climate resilience & decarbonization, equity & social inclusion, society & policies, circular economy, and finance. The climate resilience & decarbonization segment is expected to grow at a significant pace during the forecast period. The growing climate awareness and strict government guidelines for environmental preservation are some of the major aspects driving the growth of the segment.

For Any Questions on This Report: https://growthmarketreports.com/enquiry-before-buying/4968

On the basis of the end-user, the market is segmented into manufacturing & processing, mining, oil & gas, chemicals, agriculture, energy & utilities, building & construction, food & beverage, NGOs, government & regulators, and others. The manufacturing & processing segment is projected to grow at a substantial growth rate during the forecast period. owing to increasing demand for adopting sustainable solutions in manufacturing and processing operations.

Based on regions, the global sustainability consulting market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. North America is projected to dominate the market through the forecast period. The market in the region is driven by an increasing focus by corporations to establish balance in environmental, economic, and social aspects.

To Buy the Complete Report: https://growthmarketreports.com/report/sustainability-consulting-market-global-industry-analysis

Key Takeaways from the Study:

Sustainability practices are adopted to balance environmental, social, and economical factors to meet current needs without compromising on future growth potentials. Global enterprises are required to meet certain sustainability goals to fulfill guidelines set by governments.

Companies are opting for sustainability consulting services for the careful inclusion of various aspects to achieve sustainable progress. The enterprise's CSR includes fulfilling criteria such as social inclusion, gender equality, balanced economic growth, and environmental protection measures, among others.

The increasing environmental awareness and strict government regulations on corporations for fulfilling sustainable growth goals and meeting net zero emissions by 2050 are some of the major drivers for the sustainability consulting market.

The growing industrialization in emerging economies such as India and China is likely to expand opportunities for global market growth. Furthermore, the inclusion of sustainability measures by SMEs and several new sectors is expected to create lucrative growth prospects for the prominent players in the market.

and is likely to expand opportunities for global market growth. Furthermore, the inclusion of sustainability measures by SMEs and several new sectors is expected to create lucrative growth prospects for the prominent players in the market. Sustainability consulting is advantageous for taking minor to major aspects into consideration to have an improved understanding of sustainability needs within the organization's structure and operations.

The manufacturing & processing end-user segment is anticipated to register a robust growth rate during the projection period owing to the growing demand for implementing sustainable eco-friendly solutions in manufacturing and processing operations.

Read 201 Pages Research Report with Detailed ToC on "Sustainability Consulting Market by Service Type (Strategic Planning, Auditing & Verification, Testing, Technical Support, and Marketing), Application (Corporate Sustainability, Climate Resilience & Decarbonization, Equity & Social Inclusion, Society & Policies, Circular Economy, and Finance), End-user (Manufacturing & Processing, Mining, Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Agriculture, Energy & Utilities, Building & Construction, Food & Beverage, NGOs, Government & Regulators, and Others), and Region (Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, Europe, and Middle East & Africa) - Global Industry Analysis, Growth, Share, Size, Trends, and Forecast 2023  2031"

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Key Segments Covered

Service Type

Strategic Planning

Auditing & Verification

Testing

Technical Support

Marketing

Application

Corporate Sustainability

Climate Resilience & Decarbonization

Equity & Social Inclusion

Society & Policies

Circular Economy

Finance

End-user

Manufacturing & Processing

Mining

Oil & Gas

Chemicals

Agriculture

Energy & Utilities

Building & Construction

Food & Beverage

NGOs

Government & Regulators

Others

Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

Other Related Reports:

Environmental Monitoring Market by Components (Particulate Matter, Biological, Temperature, Noise, Chemical, and Moisture), Products (Services, Software, and Monitors[Indoor, Outdoor, and Portable]), End-users (Energy & Utilities, Government, Agriculture, Corporate, Healthcare, and Others), Sampling Methods (Intermittent Monitoring, Active Monitoring, Passive Monitoring, and Continuous Monitoring), Applications (Soil Pollution, Air Pollution, Noise Pollution, and Water Pollution), and Regions ( Asia Pacific , North America , Latin America , Europe , and Middle East & Africa ) - Global Industry Analysis, Growth, Share, Size, Trends, and Forecast 2021  2028

Global Sustainability Consulting and ESG Advisory Services Market by Type (Strategy and Planning, Technical Support, Testing, Auditing & Verification, Sustainability Marketing), By Application (Chemicals, Building & Construction, Agriculture, Food & Beverage, Mining, Oil & Gas, Other) and Region ( North America , Latin America , Europe , Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa ), Forecast To 2028

Global Environment Monitoring Equipment Market by Type (Portable Type, Stationary Type), By Application (Commercial, Household) and Region ( North America , Latin America , Europe , Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa ), Forecast To 2028

Global Corporate Sustainability Software Market by Type (Cloud Based, On-Premises), By Application (Document Management, Compliance Management, Performance Management, Reporting, Others) and Region ( North America , Latin America , Europe , Asia Pacific , and Middle East & Africa ), Forecast From 2022 To 2030

About Growth Market Reports:

Growth Market Reports provides global enterprises as well as small & medium businesses with unmatched quality of "Market Research Reports" and "Industry Intelligence Solutions". Growth Market Reports has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients in making strategic business decisions and achieving sustainable growth in their respective market domains.

Our key analysis segments, though not restricted to the same, include market entry strategies, market size estimations, market trend analysis, market opportunity analysis, market threat analysis, market growth/fall forecasting, primary interviews, and secondary research & consumer surveys.

Contact:

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SOURCE Growth Market Reports
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- At MWC 2023 , the telecommunications industry's largest event of the year, Google Cloud today announced three new telecom products to help communication service providers (CSPs) digitally transform their networks with hybrid-cloud principles and unlock new revenue opportunities.

The new telecom products, Telecom Network Automation , Telecom Data Fabric , and Telecom Subscriber Insights , will offer CSPs a unified cloud solution that helps them build, deploy, and operate their hybrid cloud-native networks; collect and manage network data; and improve customer experiences through artificial intelligence (AI) and analytics.

In addition, Google Cloud is providing CSPs the ability to deploy true cloud-native networks in a hybrid cloud environment. With an update to Google Distributed Cloud Edge (GDC Edge), CSPs are now able to bring Google Cloud's infrastructure to the far edge of their radio access networks (RANs), in addition to their 5G core networks. Companies will also be able to run their network functions in any Google Cloud region on Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) with the introduction of Network Function Optimizer for GKE.

"To succeed in a connected world, communication service providers are under enormous pressure to build and manage next-generation networks against rising capital and operational expenses," said Thomas Kurian, CEO, Google Cloud. "By applying cloud-native principles to network architectures, and accelerating subscriber growth through a holistic data management source, CSPs have the opportunity to bridge the gap between connectivity of today and connectivity of the future."

Automate network and edge deployments

By late 2023, more than 70% of CSPs will have adopted cloud-native network functions1, which are critical to accelerate network modernization, simplify operations, alleviate interoperability issues, and reduce costs. However, while automation will be key to unlocking the benefits of cloud-native networks, applying legacy automation practices or using enterprise cloud technologies at network scale may not deliver the desired results. To achieve efficiency and flexibility, CSPs need to take a new approach.

Now available in private preview globally, Telecom Network Automation accelerates network and edge deployments by leveraging cloud-native automation tools based on Kubernetes and industry learnings from Nephio , an open-source project Google Cloud founded in 2022 in partnership with The Linux Foundation. Telecom Network Automation is the managed cloud-version of Nephio that helps improve time-to-market, multi-vendor interoperability, reduce error-prone configurations, and lower operational costs.

Bell Canada has leveraged an early release of Telecom Network Automation to automate its implementation of Google Distributed Cloud Edge, an initiative first announced in 2022 to reimagine its 5G core network to support the scale and efficiency needed for 5G-enabled applications.

"Bell Canada is committed to building the best networks that meet the demands of 5G and beyond," said Petri Lyytikainen, VP, Enterprise Architecture & Smart Core, Bell Canada. "Our partnership with Google Cloud advances our goal to fully automate our hybrid 5G core implementation with control functions over Google Kubernetes (GKE) and Google Distributed Cloud Edge."

Simplify network data collection, correlation, and exposure

Telecommunication networks provide a wealth of data that CSPs can use to optimize their network deployments, improve reliability, and operations. Yet, today CSPs are spending the majority of their efforts on the deployment and maintenance of legacy infrastructure and data management, limiting their ability to capitalize on, and quickly put to use, their core data assets.

Now available in private preview globally, Telecom Data Fabric helps CSPs quickly derive insights from their data. The product simplifies data collection, normalization, and correlation through an adapter framework. For better reusability, the data is exposed through unified data models, leveraging BigQuery and DataPlex data mesh architecture that meets CSPs' needs for data governance and sovereignty. In addition, Telecom Data Fabriccoupled with Vertex AIenables CSPs and ISV developers to create AI and ML analytics applications that support cross-domain network operations, energy efficiency, subscriber experiences, and monetization.

Accelerate subscriber growth, engagement, and retention

With the rising costs of network operations and subscriber acquisition, CSPs are looking for new avenues to drive revenue, increase customer lifetime value, and reduce acquisition costs. With the accelerated transition from a physical to a digital environment, CSPs need to invest in technologies that create both personalized and contextualized subscriber experiences.

Now available in private preview globally, Telecom Subscriber Insights is an AI-powered product that helps CSPs extract insights using their own existing data sources in a privacy-safe manner. The product ingests and analyzes data with AI models to provide recommended actions and helps CSPs engage with their subscribers across a multitude of channels. The result is CSPs can better understand subscriber behavior, cross-sell and upsell, manage churn, and acquire new customers more effectively.

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud accelerates every organization's ability to digitally transform its business. We deliver enterprise-grade solutions that leverage Google's cutting-edge technology  all on the cleanest cloud in the industry. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted partner to enable growth and solve their most critical business problems.

1 Source: Cloud-native automation: The transformation of CSP networks

SOURCE Google Cloud
University will also offer half-off tuition and housing for students in the Master of Divinity program

PHOENIX, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Grand Canyon University will open a physical location for its Grand Canyon Theological Seminary, providing those students an opportunity to live on campus and incentives to receive more than half-off tuition as well as half-off housing. The campus-based Seminary will initially offer the Master of Divinity program, while also serving as an area where local pastors can connect with students and faculty, network, attend events and complete sermon preparation.

GCTS was started in 2016 and has operated largely online with in-person residencies. Seminary students will now have the option to take their classes in-person, during the day or early evening to fit their schedule. The new space, located at 27th Avenue and Camelback Road, will feature large classrooms, meeting spaces and a 4,000-square-foot, extensive theological library.

"Arizona is going to experience massive population growth in the next 10 years," said GCU President Brian Mueller. "While the University is building out programs across its nine colleges to help supply the workforce that will be needed, we also want to provide the next generation of pastors who will be in leadership positions to serve that growing population. This state-of-the-art facility for Grand Canyon Theological Seminary will give students an opportunity to experience in-person instruction from our world-class faculty amidst a campus environment that has become renowned for its servant leadership in the Phoenix community."

Students who enroll in the in-person Master of Divinity program for the Fall of 2023 will receive over half-off tuition for the duration of their program, bringing the cost down to $300 per credit hour. In addition to reduced tuition, GCU is offering half-off on-campus housing for students who qualify.

The 17,000-square-foot space will not only serve as a classroom environment for students but also a space for local pastors to come together, work on sermons and utilize the library.

"We are deeply grateful for the blessing of space and resources that will enrich the lives and ministries of current and future pastors," said Dr. Jason Hiles, Dean of GCU's College of Theology and GCTS. "We believe that the seminary will become something like a relational incubator where pastors, students and faculty can connect, dialogue and encourage one another. Given the incredible collection of print and online library resources, we will open our doors to the church community in a way that we believe will also bless congregations in the West Valley and across the Greater Phoenix area. Churches in the community may also find several opportunities to develop relationships with some incredible young men and women who are looking for a church where they can gain experience and refine their God-given abilities."

The Master of Divinity program at GCU is a three-year, 82-credit rigorous program of ministry training and biblical and theological study to lay the framework for a future career in ministry. Those interested can visit https://www.gcu.edu/degree-programs/master-divinity for more information.

About Grand Canyon University: Grand Canyon University was founded in 1949 and is Arizona's premier private Christian university. GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and offers 312 academic programs, emphases and certificates for both traditional undergraduate students and working professionals. The University's curriculum emphasizes interaction with classmates, both in-person and online, and individual attention from instructors while fusing academic rigor with Christian values to help students find their purpose and become skilled, caring professionals. For more information, visit gcu.edu.

SOURCE Grand Canyon University
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Huawei Green ICT Summit was held in Barcelona today. Peng Song, President of ICT Strategy & Marketing of Huawei, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Green & Development, Choosing Not to Choose". Peng pointed out that An AI Big Bang is underway. AI brings new benefits and opportunities to operators. However, it also requires better ICT infrastructure, due to higher bandwidth and increased computing power leading to a rapid increase in network energy consumption. "The ICT industry seems to be faced with the tough choice to either go green or develop. However, we believe the industry can choose not to choose, and instead go green and develop simultaneously " Peng said.

Peng Song, President of ICT Strategy & Marketing of Huawei, delivers a keynote speech

Peng pointed out that simultaneous green ICT and ICT development is possible if the right balance is struck between energy efficiency, renewable energy utilization, and user experience. At MWC Barcelona 2023, Huawei will launch solutions that embody this approach to pave the way for the green development of ICT infrastructure networks.

In terms of energy efficiency, Huawei advocates expanding the focus from just improving network energy efficiency to also reducing absolute energy consumption. In light-load scenarios, multi-dimensional shutdown technology can be employed to enable intelligent shutdown across different dimensions, such as frequency, time, channel, and power. Meanwhile, in ultra-light-load scenarios, equipment can be put into a deep dormancy mode. For example, new materials and processes can be used to solve condensation and low temperature issues when AAU hardware shuts down. This enables the power module to independently remain in standby, meaning the power consumption of the AAU during extremely light load can be reduced from 300 W to less than 10 W.

In terms of renewable energy, the company calls for a focus expansion, from the scale of green power deployment to the efficient use of renewable energy. An upgrade from network-specific policies to site-specific policies can be undertaken in order to improve the accuracy of renewable energy deployment. Additionally, the time required for intelligent scheduling can be reduced from days to minutes, thus maximizing the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy. Multi-dimensional site information such as weather, electricity price, battery status, and service volume can be obtained, and intelligent scheduling algorithms can maximize power generation efficiency and load-based power availability, while minimizing overall power cost.

In terms of user experience, Huawei proposes that the focus should no longer solely be on network energy saving and KPI assurance, but extend to user experience assurance. Optimal energy saving policies can be adopted according to different network scenarios. In low-traffic scenarios, basic network KPIs are guaranteed to maximize energy saving, while user experience is guaranteed in high-traffic scenarios. Experience-driven approaches are being upgraded to data-driven approaches, allowing energy-saving policies to be generated in minutes and optimization policies to be delivered in milliseconds.

Peng emphasized that Huawei iteratively updates its green solutions in accordance with its belief in the potential of the three aforementioned areas, and has launched the Huawei Green 1-2-3 solution. Within this solution, "1" refers to one index for green network construction; "2" refers to the focus on two scenarios: high energy efficiency and ultra-low energy consumption; and "3" refers to a systematic three-layer solution that covers sites, networks, and operations. Peng closed his speech by highlighting Huawei's willingness to work with operators worldwide to strike a balance between going green and development, in order to accelerate green ICT development.

MWC Barcelona 2023 will run from February 27 to March 2 in Barcelona, Spain. Huawei will showcase its products and solutions at stand 1H50 in Fira Gran Via Hall 1. Together with global operators, industry professionals, and opinion leaders, we will dive into topics such as 5G business success, 5.5G opportunities, green development, digital transformation, and our vision of using the GUIDE business blueprint to lay the foundation for 5.5G and build on the success of 5G for even greater prosperity. For more information, please visit: https://carrier.huawei.com/en/events/mwc2023.

SOURCE Huawei
New Gene Targeting Tool Can Improve Cancer Treatment Outcomes for Patients

JERUSALEM, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hadassah Cancer Research Institute at the Hadassah University Medical Center in Jerusalem, announced today that researchers have designed a genomic analysis tool for cancer patients that enables advanced selection of drugs targeting schemes for cancer genes, opening the door to improved personalized medicine in cancer treatment. The science behind this breakthrough tool is a computational biology method to assess the relative effect of each position-specific point mutation in 535 cancer genes, by quantifying the relative biological and clinical importance of point mutations. This enables the prioritization of genes for targeting and will lead to the development of new, more effective combination therapies, further improving the prognosis for cancer patients.

A new study led by Dr. Shai Rosenberg, head of HCRI's Laboratory for Cancer Computational Biology, and by his research student Dr. Jacob Landau, demonstrates the power of shared cancer datasets and computational biology in advancing cancer care toward truly personalized and effective treatments for patients. By quantitatively assessing the relative biological and clinical importance of somatic mutations, gene targeting can be prioritized, maximizing treatment outcomes and reducing the risk of side effects.

"The availability of genomic analysis for cancer patients, coupled with advances in targeted therapies, holds great promise for personalized medicine approaches in cancer treatment," said Dr. Shai Rosenberg. "Our study takes this one step further, by developing a method to assess the relative impact of each somatic mutation bringing us closer to truly personalized care for cancer patients."

"With this new gene targeting tool, we are finally able to bring the power of personalized medicine to the forefront of cancer care. No longer will patients be subjected to treatments that may not be effective for their specific needs, but instead will receive tailored therapy that maximizes their chances for success," said Prof. Michal Lotem, MD, Head of the Hadassah Cancer Research Institute.

"This is a major milestone in the fight against cancer. By allowing us to prioritize and tailor treatment based on a patient's specific genetic mutations, we have the potential to improve outcomes and change the lives of those affected by this disease," said Prof. Aron Popovtzer, Professor of Radiation Oncology and Head of the Sharett Institute of Oncology.

For more information on the Hadassah Cancer Research Institute, contact:

Amalia Herszkowicz

Hadassah Cancer Research Institute (HCRI)

[email protected]

SOURCE The Hadassah Cancer Research Institute
STOCKHOLM, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hexagon AB, a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies, today announced the appointment of Eva Carranza as Hexagon's Head of Sustainability and Tom Hull as Hexagon's Head of Investor Relations.



Eva Carranza, currently Global Director ESG & Sustainability for Hexagon's Geosystems division, will become Head of Sustainability for Hexagon. She will lead Hexagon's continued transformation into a sustainability-led organisation, accelerate progress toward the company's ESG goals and translate Hexagon's sustainability portfolio vision into pragmatic and tangible outcomes that drive industry-wide action. Eva brings more than fifteen years of experience in sustainability and corporate strategy, with a focus on driving businesses toward improving total value to society. She has a strong background in corporate responsibility, stakeholder engagement, and turning sustainability into a business opportunity at both a divisional and corporate level.



Based in Switzerland, Eva will be supported by Felix von Stedingk, Corporate Communications and Sustainability Manager, based in Sweden.



Tom Hull joins Hexagon as Head of Investor Relations, responsible for investor and analyst engagement and assisting the capital markets community in understanding Hexagon's financial performance, governance practices and long-term growth strategy. Tom brings over fifteen years of investor relations experience in both the US and European markets across companies spanning industrial equipment, electrical utility networks and high-growth SaaS robotic process automation software. With an accounting background, Tom built the investor relations function and investor base of Blue Prism from the ground up and helped lead the successful acquisition of Blue Prism by SS&C Technologies in 2022.



Based in the UK, Tom's appointment will commence in March. He is supported by Anton Heikenstrom, Investor Relations Manager, based in Sweden.

"Sustainability and investor relations share the responsibility of creating long-term business value, corporate focus and resilience," says Hexagon CEO Paolo Guglielmini. "Sustainability is central to Hexagon's purpose, investment community, and growth agenda. I am pleased to have Tom and Eva joining the team to accelerate our strategic commitments and grow the value of Hexagon."

For further information, please contact:

Anton Heikenstrom, Investor Relations Manager, Hexagon AB, +46 8 601 26 26, [email protected]

Kristin Christensen, Chief Marketing Officer, Hexagon AB, +1 404 554 0972, [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/387/3723723/1877154.pdf Press Release

SOURCE Hexagon
Developer Now Taking Sales Reservations For Buildings 2 & 3

PORT ARANSAS, Texas, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Building One of the highly anticipated Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences in Port Aransas is now open and welcoming guests who wish to enjoy an upscale beach vacation experience on the Texas Gulf Coast.

Featuring 21 contemporary, high-end residences with expansive sun terraces and views of the Gulf of Mexico, pool or Corpus Christi Bay, Building One represents the first of three phases that will open in the coming months.

The Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort make extensive use of glass and windows to maximize the gorgeous views. Tweet this The extensive use of glass and windows maximizes the gorgeous view from the Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort.

Architect Jay Corder of Austin, Texas, who attended high school in Port Aransas designed the one-, two- and three-bedroom Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort using a more modern, clean design than is typically found on Mustang Island.

The residences, which overlook the main central park area at the resort, make extensive use of glass and windows to maximize the gorgeous views. "The sunrises and sunsets from the terraces are just beautiful," said Kastle Kelley, general manager of Silver Sands Vacation Rentals, a member of the VTrips family of vacation rental brands and the official vacation rental management partner for the residences. Kelley added that each of the residences is accessible via coded, air-conditioned common space. "This is the only condominium in the area offering this feature."

In the living space, window systems are 12 to 16 feet wide and operate with sliding glass doors that open to large, covered sun terraces. Nine-foot ceilings add to the sense of spaciousness while wireless NEST thermostats and keyless programmable locks enhance convenience.

Buyers were able to choose from three luxury interior packages curated by Butter Lutz Interior Design of Austin and featuring kitchens with Italian Bertazzoni stainless-steel appliances, 3cm quartz countertops, contemporary slab cabinetry with integrated pantries, and a built-in bar with a beverage center. The Bertazzoni gas range and convection oven was offered in black, white, yellow, orange and red.

Kelley said guests vacationing at the Pool Residences enjoy access to the Sunflower Great Lawn, a large family pool with shallow beach entry, poolside cabanas, Turtle's seasonal poolside bar and grill, a covered pavilion for live music and private events, and a separate adult pool with shaded lounge areas and a cascading fountain wall.

The developer for the Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences is taking sales reservations for phases two and three. For sales information, call (361) 749-2366 or visit sunflowerbeach.com. To book a vacation reservation, call (361) 749-32600, option 2, or visit silversandsvacationrentals.com/sunflower-beach-resort-and-residences.

ABOUT VTRIPS: Founded in 2006 by visionary Steve Milo as a management solution for his own Florida rental properties, VTrips is one of the fastest-growing vacation rental management companies in the United States. Now with more than 15 brands and 6,000 private vacation villas, condominiums and homes in resort destinations throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, VTrips believes in staffing its nationwide offices with local experts dedicated to exceeding the expectations of property owners and vacationers. More information at VTrips.com.

ABOUT SILVER SANDS: Silver Sands Vacation Rentals is the premier property management company servicing vacation rental properties in North Padre Island, Mustang Island and Port Aransas, Texas. A member of the VTrips family of vacation rental brands, Silver Sands manages all aspects of the vacation rental experience for guests and property owners in condos within resort complexes and private homes. With more than 6,000 vacation rental properties in a portfolio that stretches across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, VTrips leads the industry in managing vacation rental properties throughout the United States.

SOURCE VTrips
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, Hotel Star and China Mobile have been rewarded GSMA 5G Smart Production Challenge Award at the 2023 GSMA 5G Industry Challenge for its "5G Enables Digital Transformation of Manufacturing" project.

GSMA 5G awards are among the most prestigious awards of the telecoms industry. This accolade has recognized ZTE's achievements and contributions in the telecoms industry, and verified how ZTE has come a long way helping more vertical industries to benefit from the cutting-edge private 5G technologies.

The SMEs (Small- and Medium-sized Enterprise) account for the vast majority, in terms of number of enterprises, of vertical industries such as manufacturing, and they are no less enthusiastic about modernizing their businesses with mobile network technologies. However, the challenges to these SMEs are often much greater than to the big enterprises, due to unfavorable scale of economy related to infrastructure, human resource and budget. It has always been one of the biggest hurdles for them to overcome before they enjoy more productive and efficient businesses.

ZTE and China Mobile, backed up with technology innovations, have been committed to addressing these issues with their customers and partners. Bai Gang, Vice President of ZTE, said: "Bringing 5G to smart manufacturing has always been one of our goals in helping vertical industries. SMEs are particularly challenging for a powerful and sustainable 5G to materialize, and we are very pleased to see that the NodeEngine based private 5G innovations really help. They enable very capable and easy-to-use private 5G, so the enterprises can integrate and digitalize their core production."

"Edge computing capabilities, integrated right into the existing 5G base station, is one such innovation that tackles the core challenges for SME's digital transformation, in that it offers much needed infrastructure for applications such as machine vision and AGV with the smallest possible network footprint, flexible capacity and easy-to-use integration with the enterprises' existing apps and systems." added Bai Gang.

Deng Wei, Director of Department of Wireless Communication and Terminal Technology, China Mobile Research Institute, said: "China Mobile actively builds a new information service system of "connection + computing power + capability", innovates an intelligent and simplified 5G private network solution. Relies on intelligent industrial cloud base stations, the agile deployment of cloud, network and industrial services and intelligent coordination of network and services can be achieved. The duration of private network commissioning and service deployment can be shortened to the hour level, and the service latency can be stabilized to within 10 ms, facilitating industrial digital development. In the future, China Mobile will continue to work with partners to strengthen the capabilities of intelligent industrial cloud base stations, expand the scope of application scenarios, and achieve in-depth integration and large-scale application of the 5G+ industry."

The joint efforts and achievements of ZTE, China Mobile and Hotel Star are just one of the many successful cases of ZTE and China Mobile in the industries by and large. Moving forward, the three parties will stay committed to innovating private 5G technologies and bringing them to more enterprise and industries for a better digital future for everyone.

For more information, please visit ZTE booth (3F30, Hall 3, Fira Gran Via) at Mobile World Congress 2023, or explore: https://www.zte.com.cn/global/about/exhibition/mwc23.html

ABOUT ZTE:

ZTE helps to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future. The company provides innovative technologies and integrated solutions, its portfolio spans all series of wireless, wireline, devices and professional telecommunications services. Serving over a quarter of the global population, ZTE is dedicated to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, and enabling connectivity and trust everywhere. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. www.zte.com.cn/global

FOLLOW US:

Facebook www.facebook.com/ZTECorp

Twitter www.twitter.com/ZTEPress

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/zte

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

ZTE Corporation

Communications

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE ZTE Corporation
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobile World Congress (MWC 2023) kicks off this year, and Huawei Cloud is there to share how it serves as the cloud foundation for an intelligent world. The ICT products and solutions pioneer is an integral part of the annual event through keynote speeches, exhibits, and other activities.

Jacqueline Shi delivers the Huawei Cloud keynote

Jacqueline Shi, President of Huawei Cloud Global Marketing and Sales Service, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Unleash Digital with Everything as a Service", where she launched multiple new services and solutions such as Landing Zone and Cloud on Cloud. "We hope to provide reliable, secure, and sustainable services for our customers, partners, and developers, with everything done on the cloud." said Ms. Shi.

Innovate for Greater Market Presence

KooVerse, the global Huawei Cloud infrastructure, delivers a premium cloud experience with just 50 ms latency. Demanding services such as real-time audio and video, gaming, and online education are now agile and efficient. So far, KooVerse has 78 availability zones (AZs) in 29 Regions, and serves customers in more than 170 countries and regions.

Landing Zone is a sustainable, scalable multitenancy solution to automate B2B services for carriers. The solution offers layered cloud resource management, identity and permissions design, data boundaries, compliance audit, and financial management. It helps enterprises build a lean IT governance system that coordinates people, finance, and things.

Cloud Container Instance (CCI) is a serverless container service that allows users to run containerized applications without creating or managing cloud servers or underlying resources. With CCI, even a ten-fold increase in traffic is no longer an impact to services or systems.

The Pangu series of AI models cover drug development and computer vision (CV) applications. Pangu models are pre-trained using hundreds of billions of parameters, and proven effective in more than 100 use cases in more than 10 industries, such as healthcare, electricity, and mining.

Inspire New Growth with Carriers

To help carriers expand into the enterprise market, Huawei Cloud releases the Cloud on Cloud solution. Carriers now make the most of the services, technologies, ecosystems, and sales resources of Huawei Cloud, together with their own industry-leading networks, to fuel digital transformation. Access to one-stop cloud service operations through resale, dual branding, and sole branding is customizable to their own needs.

Think Cloud Native, Act Cloud Native

Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) and Huawei Cloud launched the European branch of Cloud Native Elite Club (CNEC) at the event. CNEC is a global cloud native community jointly established by CNCF, China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), and Huawei Cloud. CNEC branched out for the first time to the Asia Pacific in September 2021, and has now arrived in Europe. This local member circle gathers the top minds in the industry, sparking more cloud native innovations to boost local digital economy.

Stay Open and Work Closer

Huawei Cloud held an award ceremony for the Huawei Cloud Developer Competition in Europe, a flagship developer campaign. Huawei Cloud will also sign strategic cooperation agreements with carriers and partners, such as Indonesia XL and Italy TIM, to help them build their own capabilities.

2022 has been a year of progress for Huawei Cloud. In terms of industry recognition, Huawei Cloud was named in Garter Magic Quadrant for Cloud Infrastructure and Platform Services (CIPS) in October 2022. In terms of global infrastructure, Huawei Cloud launched new Regions in Indonesia and Ireland, with new ones in Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and other places to come this year.

For more information, visit the Huawei Cloud website: https://www.huaweicloud.com/intl/en-us/

SOURCE HUAWEI CLOUD
RENO, Nev., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - i-80 GOLD CORP. (TSX: IAU) (NYSE: IAUX) ("i-80") and Paycore Minerals Inc. (TSXV: CORE) ("Paycore") are pleased to announce that the companies have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement (the "Agreement") whereby i-80 will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Paycore (the "Paycore Shares") pursuant to a statutory plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) (the "Transaction").

Image 1  Hilltop Corridor Surface Plan (CNW Group/i-80 Gold Corp)

Paycore owns the FAD Property that is host to the high-grade FAD deposit located immediately south of, and adjoining, i-80's 100%-owned Ruby Hill Property ("Ruby Hill" or the "Property") located in Eureka County, Nevada.

The Transaction will consolidate the northern portion of the Eureka District and is expected to strengthen i80's dominant presence in the district by increasing the size of the land package at Ruby Hill by more than 34% to approximately 14,272 acres, providing i-80 enhanced exposure to one of the world's premier emerging Carbonate Replacement Deposit ("CRD") districts.

Highlights of the Transaction include:

Exchange ratio of 0.68 of an i-80 common share for each Paycore share held, representing a 36% premium for Paycore shareholders based on the 20-day volume-weighted average price for both Paycore and i-80 for the period ended on February 24, 2023 and a 26% premium based on the closing prices of both companies on February 24, 2023 1

Provides i-80 with an additional high-grade deposit along trend from mineralization being drilled on the Ruby Hill Property and in close proximity to the Ruby Hill processing infrastructure (3,540,173 t @ 5.14 g/t Au, 196.46 g/t Ag, 8.0% Zn, 3.8% Pb) 2

Consolidates the northern portion of the Eureka District and enhances the upside opportunity of i-80 post-Transaction

Increase i80's land position along the highly prospective Jackson-Holly fault corridor from 1.5km to 4.3km

Unanimous board approval and support from Paycore's largest shareholder, Waterton Nevada Splitter, LLC and Waterton Nevada Splitter II, LLC ("Waterton"), which holds approximately 25% of the outstanding Shares of Paycore

"The geological setting being defined in the Eureka District is truly the most unique I have witnessed in my career", stated Ewan Downie, CEO of i-80. "In the immediate area surrounding the Archimedes pit, we have identified oxide gold, Carlin-type refractory gold, base metal skarn and polymetallic carbonate replacement mineralization. Older mineralizing events are often overprinted by Carlin-type mineralization resulting in precious metal rich deposits not found elsewhere in the Great Basin. We have intersected high-grade mineralization in every one of our targets tested in 2022, all of which remain wide open for expansion. The expanded property has the potential to host a world-class polymetallic deposit with enhanced potential for further discoveries."

__________________________________ 1Premiums based on trading on the TSX-V for Paycore and the TSX for i-80.

2The historical estimates contained in this presentation have not been verified as current mineral resources. A "qualified person" (as defined in NI 43-101) has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves, and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves.

"The consolidation of the core part of the Ruby Hill district will allow i-80 to aggressively pursue the optimization of the company's multi-year development plan  to create one of the largest U.S.-focused diversified mineral producers.", stated Matthew Gollat, Executive Vice-President of i-80. "Step-out drilling results from Paycore's 2022 drill program confirm the upside potential of what we believe to be one of Nevada's highest-grade undeveloped deposits that will benefit from the Ruby Hill processing infrastructure."

"This Transaction not only provides Paycore shareholders with greater exposure to the Eureka District, but also to i-80's high-grade Granite Creek and Cove Projects, and its existing permitted infrastructure which includes an autoclave, while also delivering a significant premium and enhanced liquidity as i-80 shareholders.", stated Christina McCarthy, President & CEO of Paycore.

James Gowans, Chairman of Paycore Minerals, states: "The mineralization of these two properties is indicating a massive carbonate replacement system along the fault corridor between the two properties. The combination of i-80 and Paycore's deposits is shaping up to be among the highest-grade carbonate replacement deposits (CRD's) in the world."

Transaction Details

Pursuant to the Transaction, Paycore shareholders will receive 0.68 of an i-80 common share (each whole common share, an "i-80 Share") for each Paycore Share held (the "Exchange Ratio"), representing a premium of 36% based on the 20-day volume weighted average price of both Paycore and i-80 shares for the period ended February 24, 2023 and a 26% premium based on the closing prices of both companies on February 24, 20233. Based on the Exchange Ratio, upon completion of the Transaction, existing i-80 shareholders will own approximately 90% and former Paycore shareholders will own approximately 10% of the combined company, on a fully diluted in-the-money basis. The Agreement includes, among other things, customary representations, warranties and covenants, including a non-solicitation provision, a right to match superior proposals in favour of i-80, as well as a termination fee of approximately $3.3 million payable by Paycore under certain customary circumstances.

The Transaction is expected to be structured as a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) and, in addition to other customary closing conditions, is subject to regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals or orders. The Transaction will require the approval of (i) two-thirds of the votes cast by Paycore shareholders at a special shareholder meeting and (ii) if required, a simple majority of the votes cast by Paycore shareholders at the special shareholder meeting, excluding the votes held by certain persons as required by Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions. Officers, directors and certain shareholders of Paycore including Waterton, who collectively hold approximately 29% of Paycore Shares, have entered into voting support agreements in favour of the Transaction.

The special meeting of shareholders of Paycore to approve the Transaction (the "Meeting") is expected to be held in late April 2023. A copy of the management information circular in respect of the Meeting will be filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Paycore's issuer profile and mailed to shareholders of Paycore in accordance with applicable securities laws.

_____________________________ 3 Premiums based on trading on the TSX-V for Paycore and the TSX for i-80.

Combined Company Asset Portfolio

On completion of the Transaction, i-80 will continue to own and operate its portfolio of mining assets, including Lone Tree, Ruby Hill, Granite Creek and McCoy Cove and will also own 100% interest in the FAD Property located on the Battle-Mountain-Eureka trend in Nevada.

Prior to the discovery of Carlin-type mineralization by Homestake at Ruby Hill in the 1990's, the Eureka District enjoyed a successful 100-year history of production (1864-1966) that resulted in some of the highest-grade historic CRD mines in the world. The Ruby Hill district reported estimated historical production of 1.65 Moz of gold at an average grade of 0.83 oz/ton (28.5 g/t Au) and 39.0 Moz of silver at an average grade of 19.5 oz/ton (668.6 g/t Ag) from 2.0 Mtons mined (also reported >625M lbs Pb @ 15.63 %) of which 80% is estimated to be from the original Ruby Hill Mine on the FAD Property 4.

The FAD deposit is the down-faulted, polymetallic-rich, extension of the original Ruby Hill Mine and was drilled by Paycore in 2022  a program that successfully expanded mineralization with multiple high-grade intercepts reported including:

PC22-07 - 1.06 g/t Au, 155.5 g/t Ag, 22.0% Zn & 1.5% Pb over 12.5 m and 2.03 g/t Au, 231.6 g/t Ag, 6.3% Zn & 3.7% Pb over 44.8 m





PC22-08 - 7.1 g/t Au, 376.3 g/t Ag, 6.3% Zn & 10.3% Pb over 14.8 m

Since the 1960's, exploration in the district was focused on the discovery of Carlin-type deposits and the potential for polymetallic deposits was largely ignored. More than 50-years later, i-80 and Paycore renewed exploration with i-80's inaugural drill program in 2021 and 2022 respectively, with numerous new discoveries including the Upper, Lower and East Hilltop Zones that are currently being drilled by i-80. These newly discovered CRD zones are located on the south side of the Archimedes pit (see Image 1). Previously released results from 2022 drilling in the Hilltop Zones include 515.3 g/t Ag, 28.9 % Pb, 10.5 % Zn & 0.9 g/t Au over 28.3 m in hole iRH22-43 (Upper Hilltop), 1.9 g/t Au, 631.3 g/t Ag, 7.4 % Zn & 33.0 % Pb over 18.3 m in hole iRH2253 (Upper Hilltop), 60.2 g/t Au, 908.7 g/t Ag, 1.1 % Zn & 15.7 % Pb over 10.0 m in hole iRH22-55 (Upper Hilltop) and 12.3% Zn over 39.4 m in hole iRH22-61 (East Hilltop) - see press releases dated August 30, 2022 and November 14, 2022.

It is also important to note that zinc was recently added to the U.S. Geological Survey's list of critical minerals and Blackjack/FAD/Hilltop could represent perhaps one of the most significant zinc-rich deposit(s) identified in the U.S. since the discovery of the Taylor deposit that was acquired in 2018 by South32.

The Hilltop Corridor is a 5.0 km long, alluvial covered, trend immediately south of the Archimedes pit believed to be host to multiple feeder fault structures (see Image 1) and the central area between Hilltop and FAD is largely untested by previous drilling owing to the alluvial cover. The discovery of the Upper and Lower Hilltop Zones in the second half of 2022 combined with holes iRH22-44 and iRH22-61, the first holes drilled to test for extensions to the Blackjack Deposit structure, confirm i-80 geological team's model that the Ruby Hill Property could be host to multiple types of mineralization and several large-scale deposits.

Geophysical surveys at Ruby Hill have identified highly prospective anomalies that are believed to have the potential to represent additional massive sulfide targets, several of which will be the tested in the 2023 drilling program. Additional RC and core rigs have been mobilized to accelerate the advancement of the multiple mineralized zones within the Hilltop Corridor.

The Ruby Hill Property is one of i-80's primary assets and is host to the core processing infrastructure within the Eureka District of the Battle Mountain-Eureka Trend including an idle leach plant, an active heap leach facility, and is host to multiple gold, gold-silver and polymetallic (base metal) deposits.

________________________________ 4 Source: Nolan, Thomas B.. The Eureka Mining District Nevada: Geological Survey Professional Paper 406. Washington, DC: United States Government Printing Office, 1962. 78pp. & Nolan, T.B., and Hunt, R. N., 1968, The Eureka Mining District, Nevada, in Ridge, J. D., ed., Ore deposits of the United States, 1933-1967 (Graton-Sales Vol.): New York, American Institute of Mining Metallurgy Petroleum Engineers. v. 1. P. 966-991

i-80 has submitted for approval its plan to develop an underground mine at Ruby Hill with mineralization accessed via a ramp from the Archimedes open pit. Work is also progressing for the completion of updated mineral resource estimates (gold and polymetallic zones) and an initial economic study for the gold zones (only).

Advisors and Counsel

Bennett Jones LLP is acting as legal counsel to i-80. Fogler, Rubinoff LLP is acting as legal counsel to Paycore. CIBC World Markets Inc. is acting as financial advisor to Paycore.

Fairness Opinion

Haywood Securities Inc. has provided a fairness opinion to the special committee of the Board of Directors of Paycore stating that, as of the date hereof, and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications set forth therein, the consideration to be paid by i-80 pursuant to the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to Paycore shareholders.

Conference Call and Webcast

i-80 and Paycore will hold a joint conference call and webcast on February 27, 2023 at 9:30 am ET to discuss the Transaction. Those interested in participating in the conference call should dial in using the following numbers:

Toll-free Canada/US: 888-256-1007 International: 647-484-0475 Confirmation #: 3803049 Login to the webcast: https://app.webinar.net/M6k4VQGz9vR

The webcast will be archived on both i-80 and Paycore websites until the Transaction closes.

Encore Replay Local: 647-436-0148 Encore Replay North American Toll Free: 888-203-1112 Encore Replay Entry Code: 3803049

About i-80 Gold Corp.

i-80 Gold Corp. is a well-financed, Nevada-focused, mining company with a goal of achieving mid-tier gold producer status through the development of multiple deposits within the Company's advanced-stage property portfolio with processing at i-80's centralized milling facilities. i-80 Gold's common shares are listed on the TSX and the NYSE American under the trading symbol IAU:TSX and IAUX:NYSE. Further information about i-80 Gold's portfolio of assets and long-term growth strategy is available at www.i80gold.com or by email at [email protected].

About Paycore Minerals

Paycore is a corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) and, through its subsidiaries, holds a 100% interest in the FAD Property that is located in the heart of the Eureka-Battle Mountain trend in Nevada, USA. The FAD Property is host to the high-grade polymetallic FAD deposit that was partially delineated with surface and underground drilling in the 1940s and 1950s. The FAD Property is located less than 3 miles from Eureka, Nevada and has established infrastructure, including a shaft, roads and old buildings. FAD was previously owned by Barrick Gold. Barrick acquired the FAD Property when the Company acquired Homestake Mining in 2001.

Please click here for further information on abbreviations and conversions referenced in this press release.

QAQC Procedures

All i-80 samples were submitted to ALS Minerals (ALS) of Sparks, NV, which is an ISO 9001 and 17025 certified and accredited laboratory, independent of the Company. Samples submitted through ALS are run through standard prep methods and analysed using Au-AA23 (Au; 30g fire assay; ALS) and ME-ICP61a (33 element suite; 0.4g Four Acid/ICP-AES; ALS). Overlimit samples of Ag, Pb, and Zn are analyzed by ore-grade methods comprising HF-HNO3-HClO4 Digest, HCl leach and ICP-AES. Additional samples overlimit ore-grade methods are analyzed by acid dissolution and titration. ALS also undertakes their own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. i-80 Gold Corp's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards (gold and polymetallic), duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results.

All Paycore samples were submitted to ALS Minerals (ALS) of Sparks, NV, which is an ISO 9001 and 17025 certified and accredited laboratory, which is independent of the Company. Samples submitted through ALS are run through standard prep methods and analysed using Au-AA23 (Au; 30g fire assay) and ME-MS61 (48 element suite; 0.25g 4-acid/ICP-AES and ICP-MS). ALS also undertakes their own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. Paycore's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards, duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results, and third-party assay checks of mineralized intercepts.

Qualified Person

Tyler Hill, CPG-12146, Senior Geologist at i-80 has reviewed this press release and is a qualified person (as defined in NI 43-101) for i-80, with respect to the scientific and technical information contained in it.

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the FAD Property was reviewed and approved by Gary Edmondo, CPG, who is a "qualified person" within the meaning of NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Gary is a certified professional geologist through the AIPG (#11089)

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to, the expansion or mineral resources at Ruby Hill and the potential of the Ruby Hill project and the FAD project, the timing of the completion of the Transaction, the synergies of the Transaction, the anticipated benefits of the Transaction to shareholders of i-80 and Paycore, the third party approvals and consents (including the stock exchange approvals) required to complete the Transaction, the conditions required to be satisfied to complete the Transaction, the abilities of the companies to complete the Transaction on the terms announced (if at all), the future results of the operations of the combined company following the Transaction, the timing of the Meeting, the intentions, plans and future actions of the companies participating in the transactions described herein, performance and achievements of the combined company, the timing, content, cost and results of proposed work programs, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits / resources / reserves, geological interpretation, proposed production rates, potential mineral recovery processes and rates, business and financing plans, business and market trends and future operating revenues. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Although the companies believe that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements reflect the companies' current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release. . The companies do not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law.

The public disclosure filings of i-80 and Paycore may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the mineral properties of the combined companies, and particularly the technical report titled "Amended and Restated NI 43-101 Technical Report, FAD Project, Eureka, Nevada" with an effective date of April 7, 2022 (amended and restated on February 1, 2023) prepared by Global Resource Engineering with respect to Paycore's FAD Project (the "FAD Technical Report"). A copy of the FAD Technical Report is accessible on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Paycore's issuer profile.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to: the Agreement being terminated, material adverse changes, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits; the inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its activities, to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

SOURCE i-80 Gold Corp
Ritchie Bros. Urges Shareholders to Vote "FOR" All Proposals Listed on the WHITE Proxy Card

VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Incorporated (NYSE: RBA) (TSX: RBA) ("Ritchie Bros.") today issued the following letter from the Company's independent members of its Board of Directors in connection with its March 14, 2023 Special Meeting of Shareholders related to the acquisition of IAA, Inc. (NYSE: IAA) ("IAA"). The letter is also being mailed to shareholders and can be found at www.RBASpecialMeeting.com along with other materials related to the Special Meeting.

February 27, 2023

Dear Ritchie Bros. Shareholders,

As independent members of the Ritchie Bros. Board of Directors, our focus is on serving your best interests and positioning the Company for significant, sustainable, long-term value creation. We have always acted with this responsibility in mind. We believe the IAA acquisition is a unique and extraordinary opportunity to execute our growth strategy and deliver outstanding returns to Ritchie Bros. shareholders.

In 2019, we recognized that Ritchie Bros. needed to embark on a new path to reinvigorate growth. After a robust search process, the Board appointed Ann Fandozzi as CEO. We realized early in our search that Ann's vision aligned closely with how we were thinking about the future of the Company. Together with Ann, we developed a new strategic plan based on a marketplace platform that defines Ritchie Bros. today. We also recruited several new directors and executives with additional skills and experience to help advance our new strategic direction, including in the areas of global digital marketplaces, technology and analytics, and M&A.

We have been impressed with how the entire management team has built and positioned the business over the last three years. Ritchie Bros.' outstanding growth in virtually all key metrics and superior shareholder returns show that we have the right strategic plan and the right team to execute on iti.

We have high conviction that the IAA acquisition will propel our progress, growth and value creation even further.

The Board has always viewed M&A and vertical expansion as a core component of the marketplace vision, and salvage cars and IAA have been part of this discussion as early as 2020. To us, the business fit is clear  IAA's auction business is like our own, and the automotive vertical fits within the transportation sector we already serve. In 2021, we began exploring a Ritchie Bros. + IAA combination in greater detail.

Prior to entering the IAA agreement in November, we conducted extensive due diligence with the support of legal and financial advisors as well as third-party consultants. Overall, the Board undertook a 12-month process to evaluate the strategic and financial merits of the deal. We regularly challenged management's assumptions about the strength of IAA's business, IAA's position in the auto salvage market, and the cost synergies and revenue opportunities presented by a Ritchie Bros. + IAA combination. At the end of this process, we unanimously concluded that acquiring IAA will be a powerful accelerant to our transformation  enabling us to do more, faster and better, than we could on our own.

Ritchie Bros. is ready to hit the ground running as soon as the transaction closes.

We have discussed integration planning in great detail during our board meetings, and our team's experience acquiring and integrating businesses is evident.

Management has developed a comprehensive integration plan with the right structure, milestones, performance measures and external consultants in place to ensure we successfully bring the companies together. Members of the Board also have extensive experience and knowledge with large scale integrations, and a sub-committee of the Board has been formed to closely monitor progress on the integration, in addition to oversight by the entire Board. Dedicated leaders will oversee the integration workstreams so sales teams can stay focused on their current roles and responsibilities.

Collaboration with the IAA team has been excellent, and the foundation for a great integration is strong. We are confident in the Ritchie Bros. management team to seamlessly integrate IAA into Ritchie Bros., and the Board will continue to hold management accountable for delivering.

We have been and remain committed to serving all of our shareholders' best interests. We are confident, based on substantial work and due diligence, that the IAA transaction will create a long runway for significant, sustainable value creation that far exceeds what Ritchie Bros. could achieve on a standalone basis.

We urge you to support your Board and management team as we turn to the next chapter of our journey by voting "FOR" on the WHITE proxy card for all proposals being considered at the Special Meeting on March 14, 2023. Any green proxy card should be discarded. If you have voted your shares on the green proxy card, you can simply change your vote by voting on the WHITE proxy card.

Sincerely,

/s/ Erik Olsson

Erik Olsson

/s/ Adam DeWitt

Adam DeWitt

/s/ Bob Elton

Bob Elton

/s/ Lisa Hook

Lisa Hook

/s/ Sarah Raiss

Sarah Raiss

/s/ Mahesh Shah

Mahesh Shah

/s/ Carol Stephenson

Carol Stephenson

/s/ Chris Zimmerman

Chris Zimmerman

Any shareholder with questions about the Special Meeting or in

need of assistance in voting their shares should contact:



Laurel Hill MacKenzie Partners, Inc. North American Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184 North American Toll Free: 1-800-322-2885 Outside North America: 416-304-0211 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]





Information about the meeting is also available at www.RBASpecialMeeting.com

About Ritchie Bros.

Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a number of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offering live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with weekly featured auctions and providing the exclusive IronClad Assurance(R) equipment condition certification; Marketplace-E, a controlled marketplace offering multiple price and timing options; Ritchie List, a self-serve listing service for North America; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales; and sector-specific solutions GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, and Ritchie Bros. Energy. The company's suite of solutions also includes Ritchie Bros. Asset Solutions and Rouse Services LLC, which together provides a complete end-to-end asset management, data-driven intelligence and performance benchmarking system; SmartEquip, an innovative technology platform that supports customers' management of the equipment lifecycle and integrates parts procurement with both OEMs and dealers; plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com.

Photos and video for embedding in media stories are available at rbauction.com/media.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains information relating to a proposed business combination transaction between Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Incorporated ("RBA") and IAA, Inc. ("IAA"). This communication includes forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and 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 (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements may include statements relating to future events and anticipated results of operations, business strategies, the anticipated benefits of the proposed IAA transaction, the anticipated impact of the proposed IAA transaction on the combined company's business and future financial and operating results, the expected or estimated amount, achievability, sources, impact and timing of cost synergies and revenue, EBITDA, growth, operational enhancement, expansion and other value creation opportunities from the proposed IAA transaction, the expected debt, de-leveraging, cash flow generation and capital allocation of the combined company, the anticipated closing date for the proposed IAA transaction, other aspects of RBA's or IAA's respective businesses, operations, financial condition or operating results and other statements that are not historical facts. There can be no assurance that the proposed IAA transaction will in fact be consummated. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as "will," "should," "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "could," "can," "intends," "target," "goal," "projects," "contemplates," "believes," "predicts," "potential," "continue," "foresees," "forecasts," "estimates," "opportunity" or other words or phrases of similar import.

It is uncertain whether any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what impact they will have on the results of operations and financial condition of the combined companies or the price of RBA's common shares or IAA's common stock. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. While RBA's management believes the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, these forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the parties' control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: the possibility that shareholders of RBA may not approve the issuance of new common shares of RBA in the transaction or that stockholders of IAA may not approve the adoption of the merger agreement; the risk that a condition to closing of the proposed IAA transaction may not be satisfied (or waived), that either party may terminate the merger agreement or that the closing of the proposed IAA transaction might be delayed or not occur at all; the anticipated tax treatment of the proposed IAA transaction; potential adverse reactions or changes to business or employee relationships, including those resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed IAA transaction; the diversion of management time on transaction-related issues; the response of competitors to the proposed IAA transaction; the ultimate difficulty, timing, cost and results of integrating the operations of RBA and IAA; the effects of the business combination of RBA and IAA, including the combined company's future financial condition, results of operations, strategy and plans; the failure (or delay) to receive the required regulatory approval of the transaction; the fact that operating costs and business disruption may be greater than expected following the public announcement or consummation of the proposed IAA transaction; the effect of the announcement, pendency or consummation of the proposed IAA transaction on the trading price of RBA's common shares or IAA's common stock; the ability of RBA and/or IAA to retain and hire key personnel and employees; the significant costs associated with the proposed IAA transaction; the outcome of any legal proceedings that could be instituted against RBA, IAA and/or others relating to the proposed IAA transaction; restrictions during the pendency of the proposed IAA transaction that may impact the ability of RBA and/or IAA to pursue non-ordinary course transactions, including certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; the ability of the combined company to realize anticipated synergies in the amount, manner or timeframe expected or at all; the failure of the combined company to realize potential revenue, EBITDA, growth, operational enhancement, expansion or other value creation opportunities from the sources or in the amount, manner or timeframe expected or at all; the failure of the trading multiple of the combined company to normalize or re-rate and other fluctuations in such trading multiple; changes in capital markets and the ability of the combined company to generate cash flow and/or finance operations in the manner expected or to de-lever in the timeframe expected; the failure of RBA or the combined company to meet financial forecasts and/or KPI targets; any legal impediment to the payment of the special dividend by RBA, including TSX consent to the dividend record date; legislative, regulatory and economic developments affecting the business of RBA and IAA; general economic and market developments and conditions; the evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes under which RBA and IAA operates; unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, pandemics, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities, as well as RBA's or IAA's response to any of the aforementioned factors. These risks, as well as other risks related to the proposed IAA transaction, are included in the Registration Statement (as defined below) and joint proxy statement/prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities in connection with the proposed IAA transaction. While the list of factors presented here is, and the list of factors presented in the Registration Statement are, considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties.

For additional information about other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, please refer to RBA's and IAA's respective periodic reports and other filings with the SEC and/or applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including the risk factors identified in RBA's most recent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K and IAA's most recent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Annual Report on Form 10-K. The forward-looking statements included in this communication are made only as of the date hereof. Neither RBA nor IAA undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information, future events, changes in its expectations or other circumstances that exist after the date as of which the forward-looking statements were made, except as required by law.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication is not intended to and shall not constitute an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, such registration requirements.

Important Additional Information and Where to Find It

In connection with the proposed IAA transaction, RBA filed with the SEC and applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities a registration statement on Form S-4 to register the common shares of RBA to be issued in connection with the proposed IAA transaction on December 14, 2022 (the "Initial Registration Statement"), as amended by Amendment No. 1 and Amendment No. 2 to the Initial Registration Statement filed with the SEC and applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities on February 1, 2023 and February 9, 2023, respectively (together with the Initial Registration Statement, the "Registration Statement"). The Registration Statement was declared effective by the SEC on February 10, 2023. The Registration Statement includes a joint proxy statement/prospectus which will be sent to the shareholders of RBA and stockholders of IAA seeking their approval of their respective transaction-related proposals. Each of RBA and IAA may also file other relevant documents with the SEC and/or applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities regarding the proposed IAA transaction. This document is not a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or Registration Statement or any other document that RBA or IAA may file with the SEC and/or applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4 AND THE RELATED JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, AS WELL AS ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS TO THOSE DOCUMENTS AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC AND APPLICABLE CANADIAN SECURITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED IAA TRANSACTION OR INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE IN THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, BECAUSE THEY CONTAIN OR WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT RBA, IAA AND THE PROPOSED IAA TRANSACTION.

Investors and security holders may obtain copies of these documents (when they are available) free of charge through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov, SEDAR at www.sedar.com or from RBA at its website, investor.ritchiebros.com, or from IAA at its website, investors.iaai.com. Documents filed with the SEC and applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities by RBA (when they are available) will be available free of charge by accessing RBA's website at investor.ritchiebros.com under the heading Financials/SEC Filings, or, alternatively, by directing a request by telephone or mail to RBA at 9500 Glenlyon Parkway, Burnaby, BC, V5J 0C6, Canada, and documents filed with the SEC by IAA (when they are available) will be available free of charge by accessing IAA's website at investors.iaai.com or by contacting IAA's Investor Relations at [email protected].

Participants in the Solicitation

RBA and IAA, certain of their respective directors and executive officers and other members of management and employees, and Jeffrey C. Smith and potentially other Starboard employees, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the stockholders of RBA and IAA in respect of the proposed IAA transaction under the rules of the SEC. Information about RBA's directors and executive officers is available in RBA's definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A for its 2022 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which was filed with the SEC and applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities on March 15, 2022, and certain of its Current Reports on Form 8-K. Information about IAA's directors and executive officers is available in IAA's definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A for its 2022 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on May 2, 2022, and certain of its Current Reports on Form 8-K. Other information regarding persons who may be deemed participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, including information with respect to Mr. Smith, are contained or will be contained in the joint proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials filed or to be filed with the SEC and applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities regarding the proposed IAA transaction when they become available. Investors should read the joint proxy statement/prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions. You may obtain free copies of these documents from RBA or IAA free of charge using the sources indicated above.

Ritchie Bros. Contacts

Investors

Sameer Rathod Vice President, Investor Relations & Market Intelligence

(510) 381-7584

[email protected]

Media

Barrett Golden / Lucas Pers / Haley Salas

Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher

(212) 355-4449

____________________________________________

i The period from January 3, 2020, the last trading day prior to Ann Fandozzi's appointment as CEO, through January 31, 2023.

SOURCE Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers
The campaign will kick off with major events in Dallas, Texas , and Washington, D.C.

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The India Philanthropy Alliance (IPA), a network of leading India-focused non-profits in the U.S., is excited to announce the launch of India Giving Day (IGD), a national celebration of charitable giving and philanthropy across the country. The campaign aims to recognize and promote the positive impact of American philanthropic contributions to India, and it will be marked by online and in-person events across the country.

India Giving Day is a decentralized campaign including local, regional, and online events taking place across the country. From small gatherings in Indian restaurants and private homes to large-scale events in universities and public spaces, India Giving Day is providing a platform for everyone to participate in this inaugural campaign.

"...we're proud to launch India Giving Day, a collaborative philanthropic effort, to help elevate awareness of the needs in the community and allow anyone to make a positive impact." Tweet this

The campaign will include major events in Dallas, Texas, and Washington, D.C. The Dallas event, Networking for Good, will held in partnership with The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) and is scheduled for March 1, while the Washington, D.C. India Giving Day event will be held on March 2 at George Washington University. These events will include panel discussions, networking opportunities, and idea exchange and will attract philanthropists, nonprofits, and social entrepreneurs. There will also be a festive dinner event in Chicago to celebrate India Giving Day.

Early giving started on February 14 and a leader board revealing the donations made since then will be made public at 6pm ET on March 1. The Rural India Supporting Trust (RIST) is a major sponsor of India Giving Day, with MasterCard and Bank of America as corporate sponsors. RIST also announced a $7.6 million grant to the American India Foundation, a founding member of IPA, on January 27 to provide a preview of the kind of leadership philanthropy that the campaign is celebrating and promoting.

Indian Americans already make significant charitable contributions. According to a 2018 survey, the Indian American community contributes more than $1 billion annually (source).

Sejal Desai, Akanksha Education Fund and Co-Chair member of Steering Committee of India Giving Day, stated, "The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated poverty and inequality across the globe, making it more important than ever to recognize the impact of philanthropy. That's why we're proud to launch India Giving Day, a collaborative philanthropic effort, to help elevate awareness of the needs in the community and allow anyone to make a positive impact."

Alex Counts, Director of India Philanthropy Alliance (IPA), said, "Initiatives like India Giving Day enable us to celebrate and promote the positive impact of American philanthropy and volunteerism in India by offering critical support to those in need. Each and every donation to our 25 featured organizations, regardless of the amount, has the power to make a significant difference."

In addition to the launch of India Giving Day, IPA has also recently announced its fourth Youth Essay Competition, which invites young people to share their perspectives on India's development challenges. Winners will showcase their ideas to leading philanthropists at a major conference in San Francisco on September 29, 2023.

India Giving Day provides a one-stop platform to donate and fundraise. For more information on India Giving Day and to learn how to get involved, please visit https://www.indiagivingday.org/ or follow the hashtag #IndiaGivingDay on social media.

About India Philanthropy Alliance

The India Philanthropy Alliance (IPA) is a network of nonprofit, philanthropic, and charitable organizations that mobilize people and funding in the United States for development and poverty-reduction programs in India. For more on IPA, visit: https://www.indiaphilanthropyalliance.org/

CONTACT:

Alex Counts

202-257-8739

[email protected]

SOURCE India Philanthropy Alliance
RCEP helps northwest China province expand friend circle

Xinhua) 09:52, February 27, 2023

Employees work at Goji berry processing workshop in Tongde Village of Tongxin County, Wuzhong, northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Oct. 23, 2020. (Xinhua/Feng Kaihua)

YINCHUAN, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Yinchuan, capital of northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, welcomed a group of "special guests" late Wednesday with the arrival of the city's first international flight following China's optimized COVID-19 response.

It was a chartered plane carrying over 1,700 sheep from New Zealand that marked a new beginning as the pandemic had caused a three-year hiatus in Ningxia's international cargo flights.

After undergoing a 45-day quarantine and examination, this batch of imported sheep will be transported to animal husbandry enterprises in the neighboring Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

Ningxia has been chosen as the designated isolation location for imported breeding animals for its proximity to Inner Mongolia, and climatic advantages boasting abundant sunshine, less rainfall and ample forage grass, which guarantee a high survival rate for such animals.

On Thursday, another flock of more than 1,300 New Zealand breeding sheep followed suit and were transported via a chartered flight to Yinchuan.

These sheep arrived at a time when Ningxia is experiencing a surge in overseas trade activities, partly attributable to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) that took effect on Jan. 1, 2022.

The RCEP, which was signed by 15 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, has served as a stimulus for increased economic cooperation and trade.

According to Yinchuan Customs, Ningxia registered trade transactions under the RCEP worth 839 million yuan (about 121.8 million U.S. dollars) in 2022, resulting in a customs tax concession of 25 million yuan. The beneficiaries of this concession include producers of machinery, clean energy and agricultural products.

"The implementation of the RCEP has brought advantages in terms of customs clearance and tax incentives, and further reduced our costs. Now simply holding an RCEP certificate of origin would qualify us for the corresponding preferential tariff policies," said a staffer with Ningxia Tiandi Benniu Industrial Group Co., Ltd.

Since the RCEP came into effect, the company has declared goods exceeding 56 million yuan under the RCEP, and enjoyed a tariff concession of nearly 1.7 million yuan.

The RCEP has also boosted the export of Ningxia's specialty and high-quality agricultural products such as goji berries, rice and potato.

"Our featured products such as goji berry, jujube and day lily are mainly exported to Japan. The RCEP has helped us explore more overseas markets and acquire many new orders," said Hu Wenjing, who works with Ningxia Hong Rising Biological Technology Co., Ltd., adding that their products are now entitled to a tax reduction ranging from 8 percent to 12 percent.

The RCEP has expanded its list of tax relief items to include auto parts, mechanical, electrical, and steel products, among others. As a result, enterprises in Ningxia that specialize in equipment manufacturing and clean energy will likely see a boost in revenue and take advantage of new opportunities.

In 2022, customs authorities in Ningxia issued 652 RCEP certificates of origin to 45 companies, which exempted them from an estimated 22 million yuan in tariff.

"While consolidating traditional trade markets such as the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, we will actively explore potential markets such as Africa, South America and the Arab region to further help Ningxia expand its friend circle," said Chen Yan, an official of the Yinchuan Customs.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Delivering simple, flexible, and customizable private 5G services

BENGALURU, India, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys (NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced the roll-out of Private 5G-as-a-Service to accelerate business value for its enterprise clients worldwide. Infosys' Private 5G-as-a-Service delivers a simple and flexible pay-as-you-go solution for clients. Infosys' wireless 5G expertise and its Private Network Management solution ensure high bandwidth, low latency, and reliable wireless connectivity for enterprises.

The Private 5G-as-a-Service is customized to the specific needs of clients and is implemented in an agile and timebound manner. To reduce the complexity of deployment, Infosys has pre-integrated the 5G stack from multiple product vendors and tested against different use case requirements. Private 5G-as-a-Service is managed using unified management solution, providing real-time insights of operation and performance of the 5G private network.

Infosys' Private 5G-as-a-Service incorporates Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC), which reduces network lag further by minimizing the time required for data processing. This enables a much more reliable network operation for high-bandwidth enterprise use cases such as remote-guided vehicles, drone-based real-time analytics, high-definition media & video analytics, metaverse solutions and a variety of IoT/industrial IoT applications. Infosys' collaboration with its partner ecosystem offers reduced time-to-market and total cost of ownership of Private 5G rollout to its clients.

Mukesh Dialani, Research Vice President, Digital Engineering and Operational Technology Services, IDC, said, "5G Technology can accelerate business transformation goals for enterprises. The Infosys Private 5G as-a-service brings together years of industry expertise through pre-integrated verticalized business solutions, modular architecture, and an extensive partner ecosystem to help enterprises evolve their existing operating environments and tap into future business opportunities. Beyond increased cost benefits for enterprises across industries, the solution is scalable and is also offered on a flexible as-a-service model."

Mark Colaluca, Vice President/GM Communication Technology Group, HPE said, "Enterprises see Private 5G as an enabler for their digital transformation, and the Infosys approach of vertically aligned pre-integrated business solutions can accelerate 5G adoption. HPE and Infosys are working together by combining HPE's Private 5G solutions with Infosys as-a-Service offering and pre-integrated vertical use-cases for faster customer value realization."

Dinesh Rao, Executive Vice President, Co-Head of Delivery, Infosys, said, "Today's changing market dynamics, disruptive business models, and regulatory compliances need an effective strategy to accelerate digital transformation through 5G adoption. At Infosys, we are leveraging our global 5G expertise to deliver reliable, secure, and cost-effective Private 5G as-a-service, with an agile delivery approach. This is aimed at supporting our clients in their transformation journey and help them derive business benefits. Our customizable solutions for vertical domains will help customers succeed in a competitive landscape. At the same time, we will continue to collaborate with industry bodies and consortiums."

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. Over 300,000 of our people work to amplify human potential and create the next opportunity for people, businesses and communities. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer clients, in more than 50 countries, as they navigate their digital transformation powered by the cloud. We enable them with an AI-powered core, empower the business with agile digital at scale and drive continuous improvement with always-on learning through the transfer of digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. We are deeply committed to being a well-governed, environmentally sustainable organization where diverse talent thrives in an inclusive workplace.

Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next.

Safe Harbor

"Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, financial expectations and plans for navigating the COVID-19 impact on our employees, clients and stakeholders are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding COVID-19 and the effects of government and other measures seeking to contain its spread, risks related to an economic downturn or recession in India, the United States and other countries around the world, changes in political, business, and economic conditions, fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India and the US, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry and the outcome of pending litigation and government investigation. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2022. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law."

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SOURCE Infosys
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Innovations in Sodium-ion Batteries, Geothermal Energy, Perovskite Solar Cells & Off-shore Wind Turbines" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This edition of the Energy & Power Systems (EPS) TOE features information about the use of mobile wind turbines with efficient wind blades offering portable power generation and the use of motionless wind turbines with higher cost efficiency than rooftop solar solutions for renewable energy generation in buildings. The TOE covers innovations based on the use of sodium ion batteries with high energy density and fast charging capabilities for EV applications.

The TOE provides latest innovations in utilizing recycled materials for cost-effective battery manufacturing possessing higher energy density and safety as compared to conventional Li-ion batteries. The TOE provides the latest insights on harnessing geothermal energy by using underground super-hot rock technology. Finally, the TOE also provides insights about the use of perovskite solar cells with higher stability and energy efficiency used in solar power generation and the use of wind assisted propulsion systems to reduce fuel consumption and emissions for ships.



The Energy and Power Systems TOE provides insights on the latest advances in the broad range of technology related to the energy industry. The topics regularly presented range from energy storage technologies (solid-state batteries, solar chemical storage and other advanced energy storage devices) to non-renewable energy such as oil and gas.

Special emphasis is given to emerging areas in the renewable sector such as photovoltaics, wind energy, and geothermal energy, and emerging alternative fuels such as hydrogen, syngas, ethanol and biofuels. The EPS TOE keeps clients abreast of the latest R&D developments at major corporate and academic research centers, provides competitor intelligence and helps create strategic alliances.



The Energy and Environment cluster provides global insights and intelligence on a wide variety of disruptive emerging technologies and platforms ranging from energy storage, advanced batteries, solar and wind energy, to unconventional oil, bioenergy, geothermal energy, and energy transmission.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Innovations in Sodium-ion Batteries, Geothermal Energy, Perovskite Solar Cells & Off-shore Wind Turbines

Mobile Wind Turbines Offering Portable Power Generation

Value Proposition of Uprise Energy

Uprise Energy - Investor Dashboard

Use of Organic Material Enables Sustainable Battery Manufacturing

Value Proposition of CMBLU

CMBLU - Investor Dashboard

Sodium (Na)-ion Batteries with Fast Charging Capabilities for EV Applications

Value Proposition of TIAMAT

TIAMAT - Investor Dashboard

Recycled Materials-based Cost-effective Batteries With Higher Energy Density and Safety than Conventional Li-ion Batteries

Value Proposition of Innolith

INNOLITH - Investor Dashboard

Harnessing Geothermal Energy Utilizing Underground Super Hot Rock (SHR) Technology

Value Proposition of Alta Rock Energy

Alta Rock Energy - Investor Dashboard

Emission-free Hydrogen Production from Residual Hydrocarbon Reserves

Value Proposition of Proton Technology

Proton Technologies - Investor Dashboard

Wind-powered Complementary Propulsion System to Reduce Fuel Consumption and Emissions for Ships

Value Proposition of Bound4blue

Bound4blue - Investor Dashboard

Sodium-ion Batteries Offering High Energy Density for Use in Electric Vehicles

Value Proposition of Faradion

FARADION - Investor Dashboard

Motionless Wind Turbines Offering Higher Cost Efficiency than Solar Solutions

Value Proposition of Aeromine Technologies

Aeromine Technologies - Investor Dashboard

Software Solution for Developing Large-scale Mini-grid Projects

Value Proposition of Odyssey Energy Solutions

Odyssey Energy Solutions - Investor Dashboard

Data-driven Virtual Reality Simulation for Off-shore Wind Turbines

Value Proposition of VRAI

VRAI - Investor Dashboard

New Perovskite Solar Cell Doping Method that Solves the Stability Issue while Maintaining High Efficiency

Value Proposition of Linkoping University

Scalable Tandem Solar Module Offering High Efficiency

Value Proposition of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

2 Key Contacts

3 Appendix

Criteria for Rating of Innovations - Explanation

Legal Disclaimer

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Aeromine Technologies

Alta Rock Energy

Bound4blue

CMBLU

FARADION

INNOLITH

Odyssey Energy Solutions

Proton Technologies

TIAMAT

Uprise Energy

VRAI

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/v34jss

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets
ST. PAUL, Minn., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Minnesota Dental Association and the Minnesota Oral Health Coalition will host the third annual Oral Health Showcase on March 2, 2023, from 10am-2pm at Minnesota State Capitol, L'Etoile du Nord Vault Room, the basement rotunda of the Capitol, adjacent to the Capitol cafe. The Oral Health Showcase returns to the Capitol after going virtual to accommodate the pandemic.

"It feels good to be returning to the Minnesota State Capitol this year", said Minnesota Oral Health Coalition Executive Director, Nancy Franke Wilson. "Our dental community looks forward to engaging lawmakers about the importance of oral health and the various approaches to delivering dental care."

The Oral Health Showcase is an exhibit of oral health programs and organizations. It's an opportunity to bring awareness of the importance of oral health, and to "showcase" nearly twenty of Minnesota's oral health organizations and clinics. The participating organizations represent various regions of the state, emergency dental care, care in school-based and nursing home sites, mobile and tele-dentistry, as well as the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Delta Dental of Minnesota Foundation and more.

The Oral Health Showcase presents a unique opportunity for lawmakers and our dental community to connect about dental care so vital to the overall health of Minnesotans. "Minnesota legislators are more engaged in dental issues now more than ever," expressed Carmelo Cinqueonce, Executive Director of the Minnesota Dental Association, "our established as well as newly-elected legislators have expressed an interest in learning more about how dental health affects the overall health of Minnesotans."

The Minnesota legislature pass a historic dental package in 2021, including increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates previously based on submitted charges from 1989, and Medicaid coverage of treatment for periodontal (gum disease) disease for nonpregnant adults. This coverage has been shown to save more in medical costs than the treatment itself for diabetics and people with other chronic health conditions. They also reduced administrative complexities and increased transparency and accountability among managed care organizations.

SOURCE Minnesota Dental Association
Will transition majority ownership to marquee group of investors, eliminating debt and significantly increasing the Company's ability to invest and grow

Continued financial support from Coover family, who will maintain minority ownership

GILBERT, Ariz., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Isagenix International ("Isagenix" or "the Company"), a leader in providing nutrition solutions for weight loss, performance, and healthy aging, announced today that it has reached a definitive agreement with an ad hoc group of the Company's investors to secure the long term future of the business. This agreement, also known as a Restructuring Support Agreement or "RSA," marks the positive culmination of discussions between the Company and its key financial stakeholders to recapitalize and support the business, eliminating approximately $130 million in senior secured debt. Under the terms of the RSA, the Company's investors will take a controlling stake in the business.

The RSA also contemplates a contribution from Isagenix founders Jim and Kathy Coover, of $95 million of value through the combination of new contributed cash and the forgiveness of debt, marking their continued support for the strategy, vision, and new chapter of the Company. Their contribution, along with an effective $130 million dollar investment via debt reduction from secured lenders, provides Isagenix with a substantial improvement in its capital position that will support long term growth initiatives and success.

"The plan we've outlined with our investors will establish a strong financial foundation for our Company, enabling us to continue to do what we do best," said Isagenix Chief Executive Officer Sharron Walsh. "The RSA clearly reflects the belief of our founders and secured lenders in Isagenix's long term business plan. We are grateful to our talented, relentless team, both in the field and at the corporate office, which has continued to focus on guiding our community toward better health and improved wellbeing while these discussions were ongoing. We are excited to bring new financial firepower that we can invest in innovation, digital solutions, and overall wellbeing while operating with a sustainable capital structure."

The Company and its advisors will be soliciting and documenting creditor support in the weeks ahead to ensure a smooth implementation of the agreement.

Once the transaction is consummated, Isagenix will be positioned to operate with a stronger financial structure, reduced debt, and additional resources.

Isagenix is represented in this matter by O'Melveny & Myers LLP, BRG, and FTI Capital Advisors LLC.

About Isagenix International

Established in 2002, Isagenix International believes that everyone deserves to experience a healthy, joyful, and abundant life. The global wellbeing company based in Gilbert, Arizona artfully crafts more than 175 effective products and offers a supportive community for its customers worldwide. Isagenix shares its products through a network of independent distributors in 24 markets: the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, and Switzerland. For more information, visit Isagenix.com.

No Offer: Forward-Looking Statements

No offer or solicitation of an offer is made hereby. Any such offer or solicitation must be made by definitive documentation that has been or will be sent directly to eligible participants. This press release includes forward-looking statements, which include, but are not limited to, expectations with respect to the transactions and the Company's future prospects. Actual results may differ materially from those expectations due to a variety of factors. Any forward-looking statement made in this release speaks only as of the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Media Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE Isagenix International
2023 EDEN winner Kranj (Slovenia) will be in Hall 20, stand 303 at this year's event, 7-9 March

BRUSSELS, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- 2023 European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) Kranj (Slovenia) is participating in ITB Berlin 2023. Representatives from the destination will be at the European Capital of Smart Tourism stand (Hall 20, stand 303).

Kranj is setting the standard in a form of tourism that is good for the environment and benefits the local community. This means implementing tourism measures that are reducing carbon footprints, while at the same time, empowering communities to get the most out of their local tourism industry. Leading sustainable tourism practices in Kranj include:

The Green Team: a team dedicated to lowering the carbon footprint across Kranj. The team is made up of 21 members from different local authority institutions. It collects data, sets targets and organises workshops with local businesses and tourism industry representatives, to make sure those targets are met.

The SOS Info Centre Proteus: the tunnels underneath Kranj old town are home to a rare species of olm. A local laboratory, in partnership with town authorities, have been researching and protecting these amphibious creatures for decades. The centre is taking this a step further, by informing visitors and locals about the endangered species, as well as the importance of the groundwater in which they live; a vital source of drinking water for the entire Slovenian population.

To secure a one-on-one meeting a representative from Kranj, you can book an appointment here.

The European Destinations of Excellence is an EU initiative, implemented by the European Commission. Its aim is to recognise and reward smaller destinations that have put in place successful strategies to boost sustainable tourism through green transition practices. The competition is founded upon the principle of promoting the development of sustainable tourism in destinations which brings value to the economy, the planet and people.

For all the latest news visit the European Destinations of Excellence website.

Contact

European Destinations of Excellence Secretariat:

Antigoni Avgeropoulou, [email protected], +49 (0) 30 70 01 86 390

Notes to Editors

1. Since 2007, the European Commission has supported EU Member States and other countries participating in the COSME programme to reward non-traditional, emerging sustainable tourism destinations in Europe through the 'European Destination of Excellence" (EDEN) award. This action aimed to foster sustainable tourism destination management models across Europe by selecting and promoting EDEN destinations. To date, 176 destinations from 27 different countries have received the award under different annual themes.

2. In 2019 the "Study on EDEN evaluation" was carried out to assess the continued relevance, effectiveness, efficiency and impact of the EDEN initiative and the various actions implemented in its framework, as well as its coherence with other EU initiatives. Following the results and recommendations of the evaluation study, the European Commission relaunched the initiative, taking into account European Green Deal goals. In addition to the EU countries, it also covers non-EU countries participating in the COSME programme. The competition addresses smaller tourism destinations which can showcase their outstanding achievements in sustainability and inspire other tourism destinations in their green transition.

3. The EDEN Award was implemented first as a pilot project and as a preparatory action initiated by the European Parliament and since 2011 has continued under the CIP/COSME programmes.

4. The 2023 EDEN competition was open to submissions from 31 March 2022 to 1 June 2022. Terms and conditions are available at https://ec.europa.eu/growth/sectors/tourism/eden_en

SOURCE EDEN - European Destinations of Excellence
Jackery encourages businesses to support IRC

LONDON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jackery, the global leader in providing portable power stations and solar panels, today announced a new partnership with the International Rescue Committee and is encouraging other businesses to consider supporting the organization.

This partnership comes at a time when humanitarian aid and support are in vital need around the world, including across Europe. Over 100 million people have now been forcibly displaced worldwideincluding millions uprooted from their homes.

Helping vulnerable families and individuals has always been part of Jackery's DNA since its inception in California over a decade ago as it managed its Jackery Cares program. As Jackery expands into Europe, the natural progression was to partner with the IRC and this commitment was cemented with a cash donation and supplying much-needed solar power solutions.

Ricky Ma, Head of EMEA, Jackery said:

"Jackery Cares has always been at the heart of our business, and we are pleased to become official partners with the IRC. We have been looking for a charity to partner with as we currently expanding into Europe, and the IRC seemed the obvious solution.

"We have been devastated to see the current natural disasters and human suffering recently, and we are confident this can help IRC support those in desperate need around the globe."

Vice President, International Philanthropy and Partnerships, International Rescue Committee said:

"Commitments from partners across sectors are needed to match the scale of today's humanitarian needs. We are grateful that Jackery's support comes at a time when solar generators are desperately needed in communities affected by crisis and disaster."

Jackery is actively encouraging businesses and individuals to help IRC continue to provide the support that is desperately needed around the world. To learn more about the IRC, please visit: https://www.rescue.org/how-to-help

About Jackery

Jackery, the world's leading innovative portable power and green outdoor energy solution provider founded in California in 2012, is a global top-selling solar generator brand born with a vision to offer green energy to everyone, everywhere. Jackery launched the world's first outdoor portable power stations in 2016 and developed the world's first portable solar panels in 2018. Having introduced solar generators to the great outdoors, Jackery fulfils the power needs of every nature-lover, inspiring them to explore further and seek more extraordinary experiences than before. Expanding its footprint from the US to Europe, Japan, and China, Jackery has sold over 2 million units globally since 2018, with its products consistently selected as Best Sellers on Amazon. The brand has so far received 40 prestigious international design awards, including the Red Dot Design Award, the iF Design Award, the A' Design Award and Competition, the Best of IFA Award and the CES Innovation Award. Also, Jackery is proud sponsors of the International Rescue Committee. Together, we are committed to making the world a better place.

About IRC

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) helps people whose lives have been shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and rebuild. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC now works in over 40 crisis-affected countries as well as communities throughout Europe and the Americas. The IRC delivers lasting impact by providing health care, helping children learn, and empowering individuals and communities to become self-reliant, always with a focus on the unique needs of women and girls.

SOURCE Jackery Inc.
RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Elea Digital announces the formation of its strategic growth advisory board, adding Jarrett Appleby, Josh Noll and Paul Hopkins to support as senior advisors its executive team.

Alongside Elea's Board of Directors, and with the coordination of Tito Costa, company Chief Revenue Officer, the three experienced professionals will advise the internationalization of Elea Digital data center business and support strong revenue growth.

Among other relevant positions and senior advisory roles, Jarrett Appleby was Chief Operating Officer at Digital Realty, Chief Marketing officer at Equinix and, other than Elea Digital, he also advises the Blackstone Group in the data center sector, where he adds more than 30 years of experience.

Josh Noll is a venture capitalist in the digital infrastructure landscape and has worked on prestigious global assignment such as Microsoft network acquisitions, Twitch and Netskope infrastructure. He also advises companies across the globe in their strategic growth, for instance African Data Centers or IPI/Iconic.

Paul Hopkins works with Jarrett with c-level role in business development projects, having worked at relevant position at Century Link, Cloud HQ and Colt Data Centers. Working from Palo Alto, he has built strong relationship with more than 30 years of experience in the telecom and data center San Francisco area.

In the last three years, Elea Digital has focused on team building of an unparalleled, multi-metro area, operational and delivery team. Strong efforts were directed to the upgrade and retrofit of its existing seven data center assets that serves telecom companies as well as an enterprise ecosystem of more than 100 logos.

"Brazilian digital infrastructure needs to reduce the gap with more developed markets such as the US and Europe", said Alessandro Lombardi, President of Elea Digital. "This team of champions will help to translate our big efforts and great infrastructure into the global market and allows us to get closer to the excellence we strive for".

With these three strategic important additions to its team, Elea Digital now plans to step up its path to Brazil's aggregation edge leadership and to build an international hyperconnected ecosystem, boosted by the new capacity added to the platform.

About Elea Digital

Founded by Piemonte Holding in 2019, Elea Digital is a data center infrastructure platform in Latin American with a differentiated wide geographical spread and interconnection focus across Brazil.

Elea Digital's seven data centers are at the edge of the central cloud regions in key Brazilian metro-areas: Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Porto Alegre (two sites), Curitiba and Brasilia (two sites).

Elea Digital's core revenues are derived from colocation and cross-connectivity infrastructure services provided to a wide range of international and Brazilian customers, mainly concentrated in the information technology, telecom, banking, and media sectors.

In December 2021, Elea Digital increased its share capital to allow Goldman Sachs Asset Management to co-invest in the platform turbinated growth and was financially supported by BTG in its early stages. In December 2022, Elea Digital issued the first ever Sustainability Linked Bond in Latin America's digital infrastructure, also backed by Bradesco and Banco do Brasil as coordinators.

SOURCE Elea Digital
SHANGRAO, China, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd. ("JinkoSolar" or the "Company") (NYSE: JKS), one of the largest and most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world, announced that its principal operating subsidiary, Jinko Solar Co., Ltd. ("Jiangxi Jinko"), announced certain preliminary unaudited financial results for the full year 2022.

For 2022, (i) the preliminary unaudited revenues of Jiangxi Jinko under PRC GAAP were RMB83.08 billion, (ii) the preliminary unaudited net income attributable to the shareholders of Jiangxi Jinko was RMB2.95 billion, and (iii) the preliminary unaudited net income attributable to the shareholders of Jiangxi Jinko excluding extraordinary gains and losses was RMB2.65 billion.

The preliminary unaudited financial results of Jiangxi Jinko for 2022 described in this press release (the "Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results") are different from JinkoSolar's consolidated financial results (the "Consolidated Financials"), mainly because (i) the consolidation scope of the Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results differs from that of the Consolidated Financials: the Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results are prepared solely for Jiangxi Jinko, whereas the Consolidated Financials also include financial statements of JinkoSolar and its other subsidiaries, and (ii) the Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results and the Consolidated Financials are prepared according to different accounting standards and principles: the Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results are prepared in accordance with PRC GAAP, whereas the Consolidated Financials are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. As such, investors of JinkoSolar should exercise caution when reviewing the Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results described in this press release and are advised not to base their investment decisions solely on such preliminary unaudited financial results.

The Jiangxi Jinko Preliminary Unaudited Financial Results described in this press release are unaudited and are subject to change upon the completion of its full year 2022 audit process. These preliminary unaudited financial results should not be viewed as a substitute for full financial statements of Jiangxi Jinko prepared in accordance with PRC GAAP.

JinkoSolar currently owns approximately 58.62% equity interest in Jiangxi Jinko.

About JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd.

JinkoSolar (NYSE: JKS) is one of the largest and most innovative solar module manufacturers in the world. JinkoSolar distributes its solar products and sells its solutions and services to a diversified international utility, commercial and residential customer base in China, the United States, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Chile, South Africa, India, Mexico, Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Greece and other countries and regions.

JinkoSolar has 14 productions facilities globally, 21 overseas subsidiaries in Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, India, Turkey, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, UAE, and Denmark, and global sales teams in China, the United States, Canada, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Japan, Australia, Korea, India, Turkey, Chile, Brazil, Mexico and Hong Kong, as of September 30, 2022.

To find out more, please see: www.jinkosolar.com

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute "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, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates" and similar statements. Among other things, the quotations from management in this press release and the Company's operations and business outlook, contain forward-looking statements. Such statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in JinkoSolar's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its annual report on Form 20-F. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Ms. Stella Wang

JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd.

Tel: +86 21-5180-8777 ext.7806

Email: [email protected]

Mr. Rene Vanguestaine

Christensen

Tel: +86 178 1749 0483

Email: [email protected]

In the U.S.:

Ms. Linda Bergkamp

Christensen, Scottsdale, Arizona

Tel: +1-480-614-3004

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE JinkoSolar Holding Co., Ltd.
World's preeminent energy conference to focus on 'Navigating a Turbulent World: Energy, Climate and Security.' Learn more at www.ceraweek.com

HOUSTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The United States Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John F. Kerry, will address delegates at the 41st annual CERAWeek by S&P Global, March 6-10 in Houston.

The first-ever Principal to sit on the U.S. National Security Council entirely dedicated to climate change, Mr. Kerry previously served as the 68th U.S. Secretary of State and as a U.S. Senator representing Massachusetts.

"We are pleased again to welcome Secretary Kerry among the distinguished speakers at CERAWeek by S&P Global," said Daniel Yergin, Vice Chairman of S&P Global and conference chair. "At a time when geopolitics are reshaping the global energy landscape like never before and concerns for energy and climate security are at the forefront, his knowledge and experience at the epicenters of international politics and global climate diplomacy will be a timely and important contribution to the critical dialogues taking place at this year's conference."

Sec. Kerry will join the world's energy industry leaders, experts, government officials and policymakers, as well as leaders from the technology, financial and industrial communities addressing this year's conference.

CERAWeek 2023: Navigating a Turbulent World: Energy, Climate and Security will examine how a new era of global uncertainty and change is reshaping challenges and opportunities for the energy transition. The conference will explore strategies and solutions for reducing emissions while meeting growing energy demandall as the world grapples with shifting geopolitics, economic uncertainty and the upheaval of war.

The CERAWeek 2023 conference program will explore key themes related to:

The Energy Trilemma: Balancing security, transition and affordability

Geopolitics and Geoeconomics: An era of volatility

Competitive Landscape, Technology and Innovation

Financing the Energy Future: The capital transition

Supply Chains, Commodity Markets and Energy Transition

Future Workforce: Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and next-generation skills

The week-long event will also include the CERAWeek Innovation Agora, serving as the center of technology and innovation programming at the conference. Featuring a community of thought leaders, technologists, start-ups, investors, academics, energy companies and government officials, the Innovation Agora will showcase transformational technology platforms in the energy space ranging from digitalization, AI, cybersecurity, analytics and connectivity, robotics, blockchain, additive manufacturing, mobility and decarbonization technologies. The 2023 program will also feature expanded "Agora Hubs"dedicated areas focused on hydrogen, carbon and climate.

CERAWeek 2023 speakers will include (partial list):

Jennifer Granholm  Secretary of Energy, U.S. Department of Energy

 Secretary of Energy, U.S. Department of Energy Bernard Looney  CEO, bp

 CEO, bp Pedro Pizarro  President and CEO, Edison International

 President and CEO, Patrick Pouyanne  Chairman of the Board and CEO, TotalEnergies

Vicki Hollub  CEO, Occidental Petroleum

 CEO, Occidental Petroleum John Podesta  Senior Advisor for Clean Energy and Implementation and Chair of the National Climate Task Force, The White House

 Senior Advisor for Clean Energy and Implementation and Chair of the National Climate Task Force, The White House Amin H. Nasser  President and CEO, Saudi Aramco

 President and CEO, Saudi Aramco Ryan Lance  Chairman and CEO, ConocoPhillips

 Chairman and CEO, ConocoPhillips Hon. Lisa Murkowski  United States Senator, Alaska

 Senator, Mike Wirth  Chairman of the Board and CEO, Chevron

 Chairman of the Board and CEO, Chevron Anders Opedal  President and CEO, Equinor

 President and CEO, Equinor Wael Sawan  CEO, Shell

Hon. Joe Manchin  United States Senator, West Virginia

 Senator, Douglas Peterson  President and CEO, S&P Global

 President and CEO, S&P Global Adam Selipsky  CEO, Amazon Web Services (AWS)

 CEO, Amazon Web Services (AWS) David M. Rubenstein  Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, The Carlyle Group

 Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, The Carlyle Group H.E. Haitham Al Ghais  Secretary General, OPEC

 Secretary General, OPEC H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber  Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; Special Envoy for Climate Change, United Arab Emirates ; Group CEO and managing Director, ADNOC

 Minister of and Advanced Technology; Special Envoy for Climate Change, ; Group CEO and managing Director, ADNOC Meg O'Neil  CEO and Managing Director, Woodside Energy

 CEO and Managing Director, Dr. Fatih Birol  Executive Director, International Energy Agency

 Executive Director, International Energy Agency Claudio Descalzi  CEO, Eni

 CEO, Eni Josu Jon Imaz  CEO, Repsol

 CEO, Repsol Meg Gentle  Executive Director, HIF Global

 Executive Director, HIF Global Hon. Andrew Sullivan  United States Senator, Alaska

 Senator, Ernie Thrasher  Founder and CEO, Xcoal Energy and Resources

 Founder and CEO, Xcoal Energy and Resources Jose W. Fernandez -- Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment, U.S. Department of State

-- Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment, U.S. Department of State John Ketchum  Chairman, President and CEO, NextEra Energy

 Chairman, President and CEO, NextEra Energy Willie L. Phillips  Acting Chairman, U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

 Acting Chairman, U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Jean-Pascal Tricoire  Chairman and CEO, Schneider Electric

 Chairman and CEO, Miguel Stilwell de Andrade  Chairman of the Executive Board of Directors, EDP

 Chairman of the Executive Board of Directors, EDP Zoe Yujnovich  Upstream Director, Shell

Barbara Burger  Senior Advisor, Lazard

 Senior Advisor, Lazard Christian Bruch  President and CEO, Siemens Energy

 President and CEO, Siemens Energy Richard Adkerson  Chairman of the Board and CEO, Freeport-McMoRan

 Chairman of the Board and CEO, Freeport-McMoRan Olivier Le Peuch  CEO, Schlumberger

 CEO, Schlumberger Michael Smith  Chairman, CEO and Founder, Freeport LNG

 Chairman, CEO and Founder, Freeport LNG Sunita Narain  Director General, Center for Science and Environment

 Director General, Center for Science and Environment Hon. Michael S. Regan  Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

 Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Charif Souki  Executive Chairman of the Board, Tellurian

 Executive Chairman of the Board, Tellurian Amos Hochstein  Special Presidential Coordinator, U.S. Department of State

 Special Presidential Coordinator, U.S. Department of State Dan Brouillette  President, Sempra Infrastructure, former U.S. Secretary of Energy

 President, Sempra Infrastructure, former U.S. Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman  President and CEO, Centrus Energy

 President and CEO, Centrus Energy Ernest Moniz  Founder and CEO, Energy Futures Initiative and former U.S. Secretary of Energy

 Founder and CEO, Energy Futures Initiative and former U.S. Secretary of Energy Felipe Bayon  CEO, Ecopetrol S.A.

Walter Isaacson  Leonard Lauder Professor of American History and Values, Tulane University

Visit www.ceraweek.com for a complete list of speakers and the most up-to-date program information (subject to change).

Registration Information

CERAWeek by S&P Global 2023 will be held March 6-10 at the Hilton AmericasHouston. Further information and delegate registration is available at www.ceraweek.com.

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Media registration is now open. Members of the media interested in covering CERAWeek 2023 are required to apply for accreditation. Applications are subject to approval and can be submitted at the following link: https://reg.ceraweek.com/flow/spglobal/ceraweek2023/cw23registration/login. Select "Media" from the list of registration options to submit your application.

About S&P Global

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News Media Contacts:

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SOURCE S&P Global
KANAZAWA, Japan, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Researchers at Kanazawa University report in Angewandte Chemie International Edition how the formation and deformation speed of interlocked molecular structures called rotaxanes can be tuned  a discovery that may lead to an enhanced functionality of rotaxanes as building blocks for molecular machines.

Rotaxanes are molecules with a two-component structure: a dumbbell-shaped part (the 'axle') threaded through a ring-like part (the 'wheel'). The two components are normally not chemically bound but mechanically interlocked. Rotaxanes are of particular interest because of their potential as building blocks for molecular machines, exploiting the rotation of the wheel or its motion along the axle. An extra level of rotaxane functionality is achieved if the wheel can be removed from the axle (dissociation) and put back (formation) in a controlled way. Shigehisa Akine, Yoko Sakata, and colleagues from Kanazawa University have now developed a new approach for controlled rotaxane dissociation and formation.

Earlier methods for the formation and dissociation of rotaxanes involved chemical modifications. One approach is to chemically replace one end (also called stopper) of the axle by a less bulky one so that the wheel can slide over it more easily. Another is to enlarge the wheel size. These two modifications result in 'pseudorotaxanes', however: rotaxanes for which the wheel can easily slide off the structure since at least one stopper doesn't block the wheel anymore.

Akine, Sakata, and colleagues performed experiments with a proper rotaxane. At the center of the dumbbell is a palladium atom. At opposite sides to it, two identical organic groups (called 2,3-diaminotriptycene) are bound. For the wheel, they used a so-called crown ether, consisting of 9 oxygen atoms and 18 carbon atoms arranged in a symmetric, cyclic way.

The palladium rotaxanes did not form immediately when mixing axle and wheel parts. Nuclear magnetic resonance measurements showed that only after 10 hours, conversion to the rotaxane structure  confirmed by X-ray analysis  was complete. The researchers found that the rotaxane formation involves a temporary cleavage of the axle part: one 2,3-diaminotriptycene group disconnects from the palladium atom, the crown ether wheel then slides onto the part with the palladium atom, after which the 'loose' 2,3-diaminotriptycene group connects back. A similar cleavage process, with the wheel leaving the structure, results in dissociation.

Akine, Sakata, and colleagues then looked for a way to speed up the processes. They discovered that halide ions, and in particular bromine ions, had an accelerating effect on both formation and dissociation. The former was accelerated 27 times with the right amount of bromine ions added, and the latter 52 times. To achieve dissociation, though, the scientists had to add cesium ions to the mixture. A cesium ion easily forms a complex with a crown ether wheel; the cesium ion sits in the center of the wheel and prevents it from sliding back onto an axle molecule.

The use of accelerators as shown for this particular palladium-containing rotaxane is expected to be applicable to other molecules too. The scientists conclude that this strategy can be applied to the speed tuning of the formation/dissociation of various types of interlocked molecules based on metal coordination bonds.

Related figure

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Figure-1.png

Caption

The use of an accelerator speeds up the formation process of the rotaxane.  2023 Sakata, et al., Angewandte Chemie International Edition

Background

Rotaxanes

A rotaxane is a mechanically interlocked molecular structure consisting of a dumbbell-shaped molecule (axle) threaded through a circular molecule (wheel). The two components are locked because the ends of the dumbbell (called stoppers) are bigger than the internal diameter of the wheel, which prevents unthreading (dissociation) of the components. (A significant amount of distortion would be required to achieve unthreading.)

Most of the interest in rotaxanes and other mechanically interlocked molecular architectures lies in their potential as building blocks for molecular machines  nanoscale components that produce mechanical motion in response to particular external stimuli. Rotaxanes can act as molecular shuttles, for example: the wheel can be made to slide between the stoppers, from one side to the other, by stimuli such as light, solvents or ions.

Shigehisa Akine, Yoko Sakata, and colleagues from Kanazawa University have now studied the formation and dissociation process of a palladium-containing rotaxane. They discovered an intermediate cleavage phase in the formation/dissociation process and found that both the formation and the dissociation process can be significantly sped up by introducing accelerators, such as bromine ions.

Reference

Yoko Sakata, Ryosuke Nakamura, Toshihiro Hibi, and Shigehisa Akine. Speed Tuning of Formation/Dissociation of a Metallorotaxane, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2023, e202217048.

DOI: 10.1002/anie.202217048

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/anie.202217048

About Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/en/

Nano Life Science Institute (NanoLSI), Kanazawa University is a research center established in 2017 as part of the World Premier International Research Center Initiative of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. The objective of this initiative is to form world-tier research centers. NanoLSI combines the foremost knowledge of bio-scanning probe microscopy to establish 'nano-endoscopic techniques' to directly image, analyze, and manipulate biomolecules for insights into mechanisms governing life phenomena such as diseases.

Contact

Hiroe Yoneda

Vice Director of Public Affairs

WPI Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)

Kanazawa University

Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +81 (76) 234-4550

About Kanazawa University

http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/e/

As the leading comprehensive university on the Sea of Japan coast, Kanazawa University has contributed greatly to higher education and academic research in Japan since it was founded in 1949. The University has three colleges and 17 schools offering courses in subjects that include medicine, computer engineering, and humanities.

The University is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan in Kanazawa  a city rich in history and culture. The city of Kanazawa has a highly respected intellectual profile since the time of the fiefdom (1598-1867). Kanazawa University is divided into two main campuses: Kakuma and Takaramachi for its approximately 10,200 students including 600 from overseas.

SOURCE Kanazawa University
Remarco que el Estado peruano esta realizando las investigaciones correspondientes en el fuero civil para identificar, procesar y sancionar a los responsables de las afectaciones a la vida, a la integridad y a la propiedad publica y privada#NotaDePrensa??https://t.co/SdF67kKsob
Michael Milazzo advises on the tax aspects of forming, structuring, and investing in private funds.

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Latham & Watkins LLP1 is pleased to announce that Michael Milazzo has joined the firm's New York office as a partner in the Transactional Tax Practice. Milazzo advises private investment funds and their sponsors on the tax aspects of forming, structuring, and investing in private funds, including private equity, infrastructure, credit and debt, real estate, venture/growth equity, and ESG/energy transition funds, across the US and Europe.

Michael Milazzo, Partner, Latham & Watkins

"Michael is a terrific addition to Latham's tax and funds teams, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the New York office," said Marc Jaffe, Office Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins in New York. "His practice is well-aligned to meet the strategic needs of our clients, and he will be a major asset as demand for our market-leading funds work continues to grow."

Milazzo's extensive and broad funds experience includes representing clients on a variety of transactional tax matters, including in connection with fund structuring and formation, as well as advising on secondary and continuation funds and GP minority stake sales.

"We are excited to welcome Michael to our leading Transactional Tax Practice," said Jiyeon Lee-Lim, Global Chair of Latham & Watkins' Tax Department. "His practice perfectly complements our ever-growing base of private equity and funds clients and the tax services that they require. In addition, his desire to be part of an integrated team matches our approach to practice. He is an outstanding addition to our group."

"Latham has an exceptionally deep global transactional platform and a culture of close collaboration between teams within the firm. This is a winning combination for the continued growth of my practice and, most importantly, for our clients, whose complex tax issues are addressed by some of the world's leading transactional tax and funds lawyers working together to find practical solutions. I am looking forward to being a part of the firm," said Milazzo.

Milazzo joins Latham from Kirkland & Ellis. He received his JD, cum laude, from Cornell Law School and his BA, summa cum laude, from Kean University.

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

1 Latham & 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 Office of Salman M. Al-Sudairi in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Contacts

Marc Jaffe, New York Office Managing Partner, +1.212.906.1281

Jiyeon Lee-Lim, Global Chair, Tax Department, +1.212.906.1298

SOURCE Latham & Watkins
Supporting high-resolution display... Expected to increase the level of immersion for users.

Flexibility and unbounded design with thin films

Creating differentiated customer values with 2-Metal Chip on Film (COF) highlighting 50 years of substrate business

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "Be in IT."

The slogan for the CES held in Las Vegas last January was all about the metaverse. Visitors to the exhibition focused on who will be the winner in the competition for extended reality (XR) devices that will bring the metaverse to life.

LG Innotecks 2-Metal COF is a film-type semiconductor substrate with the worlds smallest thickness and width and is a core component of XR devices. The product supports high resolution by forming more than 4,000 circuits within a limited space (both sides of 1 film unit). The flexible film type can be freely folded or rolled, helping reduce the required mounting space for the relevant parts.

LG Innotek (CEO Jeong Cheol-dong) announced on February 27 that it had introduced 2-Metal Chip on Film(COF), an essential product for XR devices, to strengthen its market targeting. The product attracted visitors' attention as it was exhibited at LG Innotek's metaverse zone.

COF is a semiconductor package substrate that connects displays and flexible Printed Circuit Board(PCB)s. It minimizes display bezels of devices such as TVs, notebook PCs, monitors, and smartphones and helps to reduce modules' form factor. It requires advanced technology because it forms microcircuits on a very thin film. It is also called the ultra-thin flexible PCB (FPCB) that replaces existing FPCB.

2-Metal COF technically upgrades conventional single-side COF. While a conventional COF implements circuits on only one side, the biggest advantage of 2-Metal COF is that this is super integrated by forming circuits on both sides.

This product finely perforates micro-via holes on a thin film and implements an ultra-micro circuit on both sides, transmitting signals between electronic devices more quickly and enabling ultra-high definition screens.

According to LG Innotek, the via hole size of this product is 25 m (micrometer). Considering that the thickness of the hair is 100 m, it makes holes one-quarter as thick as the hair. The smaller via holes create more channels connecting the product's top and bottom and the more pattern circuits that electrical signals can pass through.

As the metaverse era has recently been in full swing, demand for curved or folding displays has increased, and flexibility is also required for the attached components. It is also why 2-Metal COF, which can be freely bent, is considered one of the products in line with current trends in the display industry.

Supporting high-resolution display... Expected to increase user concentration level

LG Innotek's 2-Metal COF can form a total of more than 4,000 circuits (pattern circuits, also called channels, through which a signal passes per display pixel) on a film (1 unit), which is limited space. Generally, more pattern circuits result in enhanced pixels. And XR devices require higher levels of immersion that only enhanced pixels can deliver.

If the resolution of the virtual image displayed through an XR device is low, the users may feel like viewing the image through a mosquito net which is said a screen door effect. LG Innotek has continuously improved the specifications of the 2-Metal COF since 2016 to minimize the screen door effect and support the ultra-high resolution.

In particular, LG Innotek applied new engineering technology to reduce the circuit width from 18 to 16 m pitch, representing the narrowest level in the industry. Since the number of pattern circuits that can fit on the COF surface increases as the circuit width is reduced, users can view images with better quality, even on a display of the same size.

IT manufacturers are increasingly adopting displays with high definition and minimal bezels to enhance the competitiveness of their devices. In the past, manufacturers used chip-on-glass (COG) technology to support display operations. However, as COG places a chip on a display, it does not meet current display industry trends of no bezel and flexible since it cannot support flexibility. It has forced the manufacturers to look for alternative technology that stably supports high pixels while the display's bezels continued to be reduced, leading to the wide demand for 2-Metal COF.

Flexibility and unbounded design with thin films

LG Innotek's 2-Metal COF is a thin, flexible film type that can be smoothly folded or rolled. Moreover, it bends more smoothly than conventional single-sided COF. It reduces the required mounting space for the display, and the set makers can secure more space for other parts. It even helps with designing and engineering more advanced XR devices.

LG Innotek applied unique ultra-micro circuit forming technology to double the circuit integration of the 2-Metal COF while minimizing the thickness. The product's film thickness is only 70 m, the thinnest of semiconductor substrates, and clearly offers many advantages compared to the thickness of 150 m or more for conventional semiconductor packaging substrates.

Reducing the thickness helps make finished products to be more flexible and slimmer. It can increase design and engineering freedom for display panel manufacturers. It also helps consumers find products with designs that are more complete than conventional XR devices.

Opening the era of XR and a wide range of applications with 2-Metal COF

LG Innotek is further advancing its technologies and actively carrying out promotional activities in North America and Japan, where many XR device companies are active, to widen the gap with competitors.

The highly integrated circuit implementation technology of 2-Metal COF is applied as an alternative technology for products in which FPCBs are not satisfactory and are developed for new product group applications such as micro LEDs.

"We will continue to lead the 2-Metal COF market based on the technical capabilities and quality that have led the substrate business for 50 years," said Son Kil-dong, Senior Vice President of the Substrate & Materials Business. "We will continue to create differentiated customer value with products that can be applied to various applications."

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2010054/1.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1681506/Logo.jpg

SOURCE LG Innotek
DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania and LONDON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lifezone Holdings Limited ("Lifezone Metals" or the "Company") has previously announced entry into a Business Combination Agreement with GoGreen Investments Corporation (NYSE: GOGN), a publicly traded company on the NYSE ("GoGreen"), and also $90 million of investment by BHP Billiton (UK) DDS Limited ("BHP") directly in Kabanga Nickel Limited ("Kabanga Nickel"). Today, Lifezone Metals is pleased to announce a Technical Report Summary ("TRS") estimating mineral resources for the Company's Kabanga nickel project in Tanzania (the "Kabanga Project") has been furnished on Form 8-K by GoGreen.

Highlights:

Lifezone Metals believes that the Kabanga Project comprises one of the world's largest and highest grade nickel sulfide deposits[1]

Total resource attributable to Lifezone Metals of 40.4 Mt, including contained metal of 2,925 Mlb NiEq23[2] grading at 3.28%, 2,325 Mlb nickel grading at 2.61%, 311 Mlb copper grading at 0.35% and 171 Mlb cobalt grading at 0.19%. Mineral resources are reported showing only the Lifezone Metals attributable tonnage portion, which is 69.713% of the total at February 15, 2023

This is the first time that mineral resource estimates at the Kabanga Project have been reported in accordance with Item 1300 of Regulation S-K ("S-K 1300") promulgated by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

Development at the Kabanga Project is underway and, as previously announced, is supported by an aggregate of $100 million of investments from BHP Billiton (UK) DDS Limited ("BHP") in Kabanga Nickel and Lifezone Metals, and the business combination previously announced with GoGreen Investments Corporation (NYSE:GOGN)

The TRS has been prepared in accordance with S-K 1300 for Lifezone Metals on the Kabanga Project. The TRS is a preliminary technical and economic study of the economic potential of the Kabanga Project mineralisation to support the disclosure of mineral resources.

The TRS sets forth total reported measured, indicated and inferred resources for the Kabanga Project attributable to Lifezone Metals of 40.4 Mt, including contained metal of 2,925 Mlb NiEq23 grading at 3.28%, 2,325 Mlb nickel grading at 2.61%, 311 Mlb copper grading at 0.35% and 171 Mlb cobalt grading at 0.19%. Mineral resources are reported showing only the Lifezone Metals attributable tonnage portion, which is 69.713% of the total at February 15, 2023. The 2022 NiEq cut-off grade is 0.58% NiEq. Metal price assumptions used for cut-off grade determination were $9.50/lb for nickel, $4.00/lb for copper and $26.00/lb for cobalt.

The TRS was furnished on February 24, 2023 by GoGreen as an exhibit to a Current Report on Form 8-K. The information contained in this news release is qualified in its entirety by reference to the complete text of the TRS. You are encouraged to read the TRS in its entirety for a complete description of the TRS and the mineral resource estimates contained therein.

Chris Showalter, CEO of Lifezone Metals, stated: "The publication of the technical report summary for the Kabanga Project is an important step forward in the development of the project. Drilling and test work on the Kabanga Project continue as we increase our understanding of what we believe is one of the world's most important new sources of sulfide nickel supply for global battery metals markets. We believe Lifezone Metals' proprietary hydrometallurgical processing technology is key to unlocking the value of the Kabanga Project, which we believe has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in battery metals refining compared to traditional smelting and refining  ultimately contributing to the production of cleaner battery metals."

John Dowd, CEO of GoGreen, commented: "It is an honor to be part of the team working to bring Lifezone Metals public on the NYSE. The data in this report indicates that this is one of the largest and highest grade undeveloped nickel sulfide projects in the world. We look forward to continued collaboration with BHP to bring this resource into production."

About the Kabanga Project

The Kabanga Project is an exploration-stage project. Lifezone Metals believes that the Kabanga Project, located in north-west Tanzania, comprises one of the world's largest and highest grade nickel sulfide deposits.

The Kabanga Project is located within the East African nickel belt which extends 1,500 km along a north-east trend that extends from Zambia in the south-west, though the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda in the north-east, and straddles the western boundary of the Tanzania Craton to the east and the eastern boundary of the Congo Kasai Craton to the West. The intrusions that host the known potentially economic nickel-bearing massive sulfide zones in the Kabanga Project area, namely North, Tembo, Main and MNB, are found within steeply dipping and overturned metasediments, dipping to the west (70 to 80) with a north  north east strike orientation (025) from Main to North zone, changing to a north-east strike orientation (055) from North to Tembo. For more information, see Section 6 of the TRS.

A resource definition drill program is underway and ongoing at North and Tembo to support the definitive feasibility study mine plan and reserve statement.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed with Tanesco, the Tanzanian national electricity supplier, regarding the connections of interim and permanent power supply for construction and operational needs via a new high voltage overhead line to Kabanga. Consultation is also ongoing with Tanroads and Tanzania Railways Corporation regarding the upgrades and improvements of existing roads to support Kabanga's concentrate road transport from Kabanga to Kahama and rail to allow final metals product transport from Kahama to Dar es Salaam.

Lifezone Metals recently announced the completion of BHP's additional $50 million investment in Kabanga Nickel, with which Lifezone Metals will continue to progress work on the resource definition drilling, early works, resettlement and the definitive feasibility study for the Kabanga Project.

Mineral Resources

The mineral resource estimates set forth in the TRS are based on the mineral resources reported by Glencore Canada Corporation and Barrick Gold Corporation, as current in their respective 2016 annual reports. The nickel-equivalent grade and the modifying factors for the cut-off grade were updated with 2023 assumptions for reporting of the mineral resource estimates.

Only the portion of the total mineralisation that is attributable to Lifezone Metals' interest in the property is shown in the table below. The mineral resource estimates have an effective date of 15 February 2023.

Kabanga Mineral Resource Estimates as at 15 February 2023

Mineral

Resource

Classification Lifezone

Metals

Tonnage

(Mt) Grades Contained Metal



NiEq23

(%) Ni

(%) Cu

(%) Co

(%) NiEq23

(Mlb) Ni

(Mlb) Cu

(Mlb) Co

(Mlb) Tembo Measured 4.9 3.03 2.34 0.32 0.20 325 251 34 22 Indicated 2.2 2.20 1.69 0.22 0.15 108 83 11 7 Inferred 2.1 3.05 2.41 0.31 0.18 140 111 14 8 Tembo Total 9.2 2.83 2.20 0.29 0.19 573 445 60 37 North Measured 4.7 3.37 2.64 0.35 0.21 348 273 37 22 Indicated 11.9 3.80 3.05 0.41 0.21 998 801 107 55 Inferred 12.0 3.29 2.64 0.35 0.18 868 698 93 48 North Total 28.6 3.52 2.81 0.37 0.20 2,214 1,772 236 125 Main Measured          Indicated 2.14 2.44 1.92 0.28 0.15 115 91 13 7 Inferred          Main Total 2.14 2.44 1.92 0.28 0.15 115 91 13 7 MNB Measured          Indicated          Inferred 0.51 1.98 1.52 0.20 0.13 22 17 2 2 MNB Total 0.51 1.98 1.52 0.20 0.13 22 17 2 2 Overall

Mineral

Resource

















Measured 9.6 3.20 2.49 0.34 0.21 673 525 71 43 Indicated 16.3 3.40 2.71 0.36 0.19 1,221 974 131 70 Inferred 14.6 3.21 2.57 0.34 0.18 1,031 826 109 58 Total 40.4 3.28 2.61 0.35 0.19 2,925 2,325 311 171

1. Mineral resources are reported exclusive of mineral reserves. There are no mineral reserves to report.

2. Mineral resources are reported showing only the Lifezone Metals attributable tonnage portion, which is 69.713% of the total.

3. Cut-off uses the NiEq23 using a nickel price of $9.50/lb, copper price of $4.00/lb, and cobalt price of $26.00/lb with allowances for recoveries, payability, deductions, transport, and royalties. NiEq23% = Ni% + Cu% x 0. 411 + Co% x 2.765.

4. The point of reference for mineral resources is the point of feed into a processing facility.

5. All mineral resources in the TRS were assessed for reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction by reporting only material above a cut-off grade of 0.58% NiEq23.

6. Totals may vary due to rounding.

For further details, see Section 11 of the TRS.

The metal prices used in the TRS are based on an internal assessment of recent market prices, long-term forward curve prices and consensus among analysts regarding price estimates. The prices selected are at the upper range of long-term consensus price forecasts over the last 10 years. This is an optimistic view of prices for use in the mineral resource cut-off grade analysis to ensure that the mineral resource does not exclude material that can be included in further studies for defining mineral reserves.

Metal price assumptions used for cut-off grade determination were $9.50/lb for nickel, $4.00/lb for copper and $26.00/lb for cobalt. A nickel concentrate is assumed to be produced on site, and then transported to the multi-metal mineral processing facility to produce final nickel, copper and cobalt metal, with transport of final nickel, copper and cobalt metal to Dar es Salaam, and export to markets for sale. Markets for nickel, copper and cobalt are well established and decarbonisation plans and activities have indicated that they will add to demand of these metals. The demand for these metals is expected to be robust in the long term. As yet, no contracts or detailed marketing studies have been prepared by Lifezone Metals.

Initial Assessment

The TRS describes the mineral resource estimates of the Kabanga Project. The initial assessment assumes an underground mining rate of 2.2 Mtpa. The mining method is underground stopping with backfill, and the extracted mineralised material will feed into an on-site concentrator. Concentrate is assumed to be transported to an off-site hydrometallurgical processing facility to produce final nickel, copper and cobalt metal, with transport of the final metal to Dar es Salaam and export to markets for sale.

A cash flow analysis was not performed for the Kabanga Project. The initial assessment has been prepared to demonstrate reasonable prospects of economic extraction, not the economic viability of the mineral resource estimates. The initial assessment is preliminary in nature and includes inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have modifying factors applied to them that would enable them to be categorised as mineral reserves, and there is no certainty that this economic assessment will be realised.

The Qualified Person has concluded that the mineral resource estimates meet reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction.

For more information, see Section 1.6.4 of the TRS.

Contacts

Lifezone Metals Natasha Liddell Executive Vice President ESG & Communications [email protected] Media Enquiries Tom Batchelar TAB Communications [email protected] +44 (0) 7814 964 287 Daniel Thole Fletcher Advisory [email protected] +44 (0) 7821 571 308 GoGreen Investments John Dowd [email protected]

Qualified Person

The TRS was prepared by Raymond Kohlsmith, BSc (Hons.) (Geol) 1980, P.Geo (1044) PGO Canada, a "qualified person" as defined in S-K 1300 (the "Qualified Person"). The Qualified Person is employed by Tembo Nickel Corporation Limited, an indirect subsidiary of Lifezone Metals, as Exploration Geology Manager. The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by the Qualified Person.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but may be considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the "safe harbor" provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "continue," "anticipate," "intend," "expect," "should," "would," "plan," "predict," "potential," "seem," "seek," "future," "outlook" or the negatives of these terms or variations of them or similar terminology or expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding future events, the proposed business combination between GoGreen Investments Corporation ("SPAC") and Lifezone Metals, the estimated or anticipated future results and benefits of the combined company following the business combination, including the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the business combination, future opportunities for the combined company, including the efficacy of Lifezone Metals' proprietary hydromet mineral processing technology (the "Hydromet Technology") and the development of, and processing of mineral resources at, the Kabanga project, and other statements that are not historical facts.

These statements are based on the current expectations of SPAC and/or Lifezone Metals' management and are not predictions of actual performance. These forward-looking statements are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to serve as, and must not be relied on, by any investor as a guarantee, an assurance, a prediction or a definitive statement of fact or probability. Actual events and circumstances are difficult or impossible to predict and will differ from assumptions. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of SPAC and Lifezone Metals. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding Lifezone Metals' business and the business combination, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: general economic, political and business conditions, including but not limited to the economic and operational disruptions and other effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; the inability of the parties to consummate the business combination or the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the business combination agreement; the number of redemption requests made by SPAC's shareholders in connection with the business combination; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the parties following the announcement of the business combination; the risk that the approval of the shareholders of Lifezone Metals or SPAC for the potential transaction is not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the business combination, including as a result of a delay in consummating the potential transaction or difficulty in integrating the businesses of Lifezone Metals and SPAC; the risk that the business combination disrupts current plans and operations as a result of the announcement and consummation of the business combination; the risks related to the rollout of Lifezone Metals' business, the efficacy of the Hydromet Technology, and the timing of expected business milestones; Lifezone Metals' development of, and processing of mineral resources at, the Kabanga project; the effects of competition on Lifezone Metals' business; the ability of the combined company to execute its growth strategy, manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; the ability of Lifezone Metals Limited ("Holdings") to obtain or maintain the listing of its securities on a U.S. national securities exchange following the business combination; costs related to the business combination; and other risks that will be detailed from time to time in filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). The foregoing list of risk factors is not exhaustive. There may be additional risks that Lifezone Metals presently does not know or that Lifezone Metals currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Lifezone Metals' expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Lifezone Metals anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Lifezone Metals' assessments to change. However, while Lifezone Metals may elect to update these forward-looking statements in the future, Lifezone Metals specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Lifezone Metals' assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Nothing herein should be regarded as a representation by any person that the forward-looking statements set forth herein will be achieved or results of such forward-looking statements will be achieved.

Certain statements made herein include references to "clean" or "green" metals, methods of production of such metals, energy or the future in general. Such references relate to environmental benefits such as lower green-house gas ("GHG") emissions and energy consumption involved in the production of metals using the Hydromet Technology relative to the use of traditional methods of production and the use of metals such as nickel in the batteries used in electric vehicles. While studies by third parties (commissioned by Lifezone Metals) have shown that the Hydromet Technology, under certain conditions, results in lower GHG emissions and lower consumption of electricity compared to smelting with respect to refining platinum group metals, no active refinery currently licenses Lifezone Metals' Hydromet Technology. Accordingly, Lifezone Metals' Hydromet Technology and the resultant metals may not achieve the environmental benefits to the extent Lifezone Metals expects or at all. Any overstatement of the environmental benefits in this regard may have adverse implications for Lifezone Metals and its stakeholders.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

In connection with the business combination Holdings intends to file with the SEC a registration statement on Form F-4, which will include a preliminary prospectus and preliminary proxy statement and, after the registration statement is declared effective, SPAC will mail a definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents relating to the business combination to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the registration statement, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus or any other document that SPAC will send to its shareholders in connection with the business combination.

INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE ADVISED TO READ, WHEN AVAILABLE, THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE BUSINESS COMBINATION AND THE PARTIES TO THE BUSINESS COMBINATION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain copies of these documents (if and when available) and other documents filed with the SEC free of charge at www.sec.gov. The definitive proxy statement/final prospectus (if and when available) will be mailed to shareholders of SPAC as of a record date to be established for voting on the business combination. Shareholders of SPAC will also be able to obtain copies of the proxy statement/prospectus without charge, once available, at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to: GoGreen Investments Corporation, One City Centre, 1021 Main Street, Suite 1960, Houston, TX 77002.

Participants in the Solicitation

Holdings, Lifezone Metals, SPAC and their respective directors, executive officers, other members of management, and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies of SPAC's shareholders in connection with the business combination. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names and interests in the business combination of the directors and officers of Holdings, Lifezone Metals, SPAC in the registration statement on Form F-4 to be filed with the SEC by Holdings, which will include the proxy statement of SPAC for the business combination. Information about SPAC's directors and executive officers is also available in SPAC's filings with the SEC.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication is for informational purposes only and is neither an offer to purchase, nor a solicitation of an offer to sell, subscribe for or buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote in any jurisdiction pursuant to the business combination or otherwise, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act.

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[1] Based on analysis of the largest undeveloped nickel deposits from S&P Capital IQ Pro, as modified per public data on each mining project. The Kabanga Project's resource metrics reflect the measured, indicated and inferred resources referred to in the TRS.

[2] The 2023 nickel equivalent (NiEq23) formula is as follows: NiEq23 (%) = Ni% + Cu% x 0.411 + Co% x 2.765. The 2023 NiEq cut-off grade is 0.58% NiEq.

SOURCE Lifezone Metals
Lunit INSIGHT CXR software to be embedded in Agfa's MUSICA  Workstation to improve chest pathologies detection

Lunit to showcase poster presentation on Lunit INSIGHT CXR at ECR 2023 as part of 6 presentations

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ) and Agfa Radiology Solutions today announced the integration of Lunit's AI solution for chest radiology, Lunit INSIGHT CXR, in the MUSICA Workstation. Agfa will showcase a demonstration of the integrated product at the upcoming European Congress of Radiology (ECR) 2023, to be held in Vienna, Austria, on March 1-5.

Lunit INSIGHT CXR, Lunit's AI solution for chest radiology

Lunit INSIGHT CXR detects suspicious lesions in chest x-ray images, helping radiologists distinguish disease areas by providing the location of the lesion with an abnormality score that reflects the AI's confidence level. The AI solution can detect 10 of the most common chest abnormalities, including tuberculosis, with 97-99% accuracy.[1]

The new critical findings workflow for clinicians by Lunit and Agfa provides automatic notifications to radiographers when a critical, life-threatening disease is detected, such as pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and pneumoperitoneum. Thus, hospitals can improve patient safety through timely communication with clinicians, especially in outpatient settings where patients return home after x-ray exams.

Agfa's MUSICA workstation is an image processing software that offers a single intuitive interface covering general radiography, fluoroscopy, mammography, and full leg/full spine (FLFS). Lunit INSIGHT CXR's integration is the first in a range of new functionalities to be embedded in the MUSICA Workstation to assist clinicians and radiologists with pathology detection.

"With the integration of Lunit INSIGHT CXR, we are continuing to deliver on our vision to transform digital radiology," said Paul Danini, Global Software Marketing and Product Manager at Agfa. "Lunit has a strong clinical validation track record and is registered in Europe and also more than 19 countries outside Europe, making it an excellent partner for developing solutions that bring our customers intelligent and definitive answers to their daily needs."

"We are thrilled to team with Agfa once again to create clinical value through AI and ensure a healthier life for patients," said Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit. "We believe that the integration of Lunit's AI in Agfa's advanced medical imaging workstation will help facilitate more effective clinical workflows in various hospital situations."

The integrated solution will be publicly demonstrated for the first time at Agfa's booth #207.

Lunit also announced that it will showcase a poster presentation highlighting Lunit INSIGHT CXR's ability to differentiate between normal and abnormal chest radiographsone of 6 presentations Lunit will be delivering at ECR 2023.

The study aimed to automate the detection of normal vs. abnormal chest radiographsthus removing them from radiologists' worklist. Lunit INSIGHT CXR was used to retrospectively analyze 1,671 x-ray images from two large hospitals in the Netherlands. The data were collected consecutivelywithout any data enrichment, thus mimicking real-world use cases. The x-ray images were initially reviewed and classified by a radiologist according to 5 categories: normal (548), clinically irrelevant findings (281), clinically relevant findings (327), urgent findings (494), and critical findings (21).

Lunit INSIGHT CXR showed a very high AUC of 0.908 for detecting normal cases and at a high specificity of 95%, it was simulated that around half of the normal radiographs could be safely removed from the worklist. Therefore, the results show that the workload for the radiologist could be significantly reduced with the usage of AI.

Lunit will showcase a total of 6 abstracts at this year's ECR meeting, with 4 oral presentations and 2 poster presentations.

[1] https://www.lunit.io/en/products/cxr

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2010208/Lunit_INSIGHT_CXR_Lunit_s_AI_solution_chest_radiology.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1576401/Lunit_CI_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Lunit
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - MANTARO PRECIOUS METALS CORP. (TSXV: MNTR); (OTCQB: MSLVF); (FSE: 9TZ) (the "Company") announces it has granted options to purchase 3,100,000 common shares to its directors, officers and consultants. Each option will be exercisable at a price of $0.05 per share for a period of five years from the date of grant.

About Mantaro Precious Metals Corp.

Mantaro Precious Metals Corp. is a British Columbia company that holds a diversified portfolio of gold and silver focused mineral properties in Bolivia and Peru. The Company holds an option to acquire up to an 80% interest in the advanced Golden Hill orogenic gold property ("Golden Hill"), located in the underexplored Precambrian Shield, Bolivia.

In Peru, the Company has a 100% interest in the high-grade Santas Gloria silver property as well as a 100% interest in each of the La Purisima, Cerro Luque and Huaranay properties.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Mantaro Precious Metals Corp.
Organ Brings Deep Knowledge and Experience as the Company Enters its Next Chapter of Value Creation

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Maple Leaf Foods Inc. (TSX: MFI), an iconic Canadian branded food company, today named industry veteran Dennis Organ as President of its Pork Complex. Organ's appointment follows the company's recent announcement of changes to its Senior Leadership Team as it embarks on its next chapter of value creation focused on leveraging its network of world-class facilities, accelerating its innovation agenda and elevating its operational excellence system.

Organ is a distinguished industry executive with more than 27 years of history in the food industry, including 11 years with Smithfield Foods, where he held a variety of key roles, including Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive Officer. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and has a strong track record as an innovative thinker, leading complex global food and meat processing organizations.

"We are extremely pleased to have Dennis join our Team. His deep knowledge and experience in the pork business, together with his strong leadership skills, make him the ideal person to lead our Pork Complex," said Curtis Frank, President and Chief Operating Officer. "He is an incredibly talented leader who shares Maple Leaf Foods' deeply-held values, and is committed to advancing our vision to be the most sustainable protein company on earth as we create shared value for all our stakeholders."

Maple Leaf Foods' Pork Complex is a world-class operation and a leading producer of pork from pigs raised without antibiotics and sows raised in open housing. The Pork Complex supplies pork to Maple Leaf Foods' prepared meats business and is a premier provider of quality fresh pork to customers and consumers in North America and internationally.

About Maple Leaf Foods

Maple Leaf Foods Inc. ("Maple Leaf Foods") is a carbon neutral company with a vision to be the most sustainable protein company on earth, responsibly producing food products under leading brands including Maple Leaf, Maple Leaf Prime, Maple Leaf Natural Selections, Schneiders, Schneiders Country Naturals, Mina, Greenfield Natural Meat Co., Lightlife and Field Roast. Maple Leaf Foods employs approximately 14,000 people and does business in Canada, the U.S. and Asia. The company is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, and its shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (MFI).

SOURCE Maple Leaf Foods Inc.
Seasoned Private Equity Executive Will Advise Warburg Pincus on Investments Across Multiple Sectors and Geographies

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Warburg Pincus, a leading global growth investor, today announced the appointment of Martin Laguerre as a Senior Advisor working with its Capital Solutions, Financial Services and Business Services groups. Mr. Laguerre will support the firm in identifying and evaluating new investment opportunities, while leveraging his knowledge of the Canadian markets as well as his vast sector expertise and decades of leadership experience.

Mr. Laguerre has broad experience in private equity, mergers and acquisitions, investment strategy, and finance. From 2019 to 2022, he was Executive Vice President and Global Head of Private Equity and Managing Director, Capital Solutions at Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec ("CDPQ"), a Canadian pension fund. From 2016 to 2019, Mr. Laguerre was a Senior Principal at CPP Investment Board (formerly CPPIB), a Canadian pension fund. From 2010 to 2016, Mr. Laguerre was Managing Director at General Electric Power & Water, where he was involved in the firm's mergers and acquisitions and integration strategy for renewable energy. Prior to joining General Electric, he held various corporate roles at IPG Photonics Corporation, a U.S. manufacturer of fiber lasers, and at DLJ, Credit Suisse, and Lehman Brothers Investment Banking in New York.

"Martin's deep industry expertise, coupled with his relationships and diverse skill set, will be uniquely valuable to Warburg Pincus. Our current and prospective portfolio companies will benefit greatly from his many years of experience across all stages of investing," said Dan Zilberman, Global Head of Capital Solutions and member of Warburg Pincus' Executive Management Group. "We look forward to welcoming Martin to the team and working with him to pursue opportunities that will further enhance and grow our platform."

"Warburg Pincus and I share a commitment to growth investing and building sustainable businesses. I am excited to work with this talented group of investment and operating professionals to build trusted partnerships, while further strengthening and adding value to new and existing relationships with the firm," said Mr. Laguerre.

Mr. Laguerre currently serves as an independent director of BGC Partners Inc., a leading global brokerage company servicing the financial markets. In addition, representing CDPQ, Mr. Laguerre previously served as a Board Member of Sagen MI Canada, a Canadian mortgage insurance provider. Representing CPP Investment Board, Mr. Laguerre previously served as a board member of Cordelio Power Inc., a North American renewable energy operating company, of Auren Energia SA (formerly Votorantim Energia), a Brazilian renewable energy holding company, and of a joint venture in select North American onshore renewable power assets of Enbridge Inc.

Mr. Laguerre has been a CFA Charterholder from the CFA Institute since 2000. Mr. Laguerre holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University and an MBA from the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business.

About Warburg Pincus

Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global growth investor. The firm has more than $85 billion in assets under management. The firm's active portfolio of more than 260 companies is highly diversified by stage, sector, and geography. Warburg Pincus is an experienced partner to management teams seeking to build durable companies with sustainable value. Founded in 1966, Warburg Pincus has raised 21 private equity and 2 real estate funds, which have invested more than $108 billion in over 1,055 companies in more than 40 countries. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Mauritius, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, and Singapore. For more information, please visit www.warburgpincus.com. Follow us on LinkedIn.

Contact

Kerrie Cohen

Managing Director, Head of Communications, Americas

T: +1 212 878 9207

E: [email protected]

SOURCE Warburg Pincus
LOVELAND, Colo., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Meyer Natural Foods, a leading provider of natural and organic proteins, announces the appointment of John Keating as the company's new Chief Executive Officer.

Meyer Natural Foods headquarters in Loveland, Colorado

Keating brings over thirty years of industry experience to Meyer Natural Foods through a long and successful career at Cargill, most recently serving as President of Business Operations and Supply Chain for North America. Keating is a native of Texas and graduated from Texas Tech University prior to beginning his career with Cargill. Keating's tenure at Cargill began as a beef production trainee where he quickly advanced through various roles including General Manager and Vice President of Cargill Beef Australia. In 2002 Keating returned to the US as President of Cargill's food distribution and case-ready businesses before being promoted to President of Cargill Beef in 2008. Keating retired from Cargill in 2022 and consulted with Meyer Natural Foods prior to his appointment as CEO.

"With today's challenging markets and economic pressures, I know we need an industry veteran to help drive growth and progress at Meyer Natural Foods", said Bob Meyer, owner and founder. "John brings the right mix of industry experience, customer focus, and personal integrity I desire to lead Meyer Natural Foods forward. John shares my commitment to producing the highest quality and best tasting products with a commitment to environmentally sound practices, humane animal treatment, and personal and professional integrity."

Keating and his wife Cristy have three daughters and live in Spicewood, TX. Keating will be operating out of the Meyer Natural Foods corporate headquarters in Loveland, CO.

About Meyer Natural Foods

At Meyer Natural Foods, we have always believed in doing things the right way. Exceptional taste comes from uncompromising standards. We proudly call that The Meyer Way, and we have been putting our beliefs into action for more than 30 years. Meyer Natural Foods is a long-standing supplier of all-natural and organic protein options under the Meyer Natural Angus, Laura's Lean, Dakota, Local Harvest, and Meyer Heritage Duroc Pork brands. To learn more, visit www.meyernaturalfoods.com or follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/meyer-natural-foods/.

SOURCE Meyer Foods Group, LLC
BOSTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Midaxo, the leading software platform for corporate dealmaking, today announced it is participating in multiple industry events during February and March 2023. Midaxo's unique insights into the latest corporate dealmaking technologies, trends and strategies will enable attendees to enhance and accelerate their dealmaking processes. Midaxo has also posted on-demand videos of multiple prior events on the company's website.

To remain competitive in today's challenging economic environment, companies need the ability to find, evaluate, and deliver value from a variety of potential new business opportunities including joint ventures, channels, partnerships, patents, traditional acquisitions and more. As the leading AI-powered platform for corporate dealmaking, Midaxo has deep experience in the entire deal lifecycle and offers solutions that can be tailored to each company's unique needs. Midaxo webinars and conference sessions offer attendees an opportunity to quickly learn how they can transform their dealmaking processes through deeper insights, improved communications, reduced risk, and increased speed.

Webinars

Accelerating Dealmaking Opportunities with Technology  February 28, 2023 

Led by the editors of Mergers & Acquisitions, this panel will feature Jude McColgan , CEO of Midaxo, and industry executives from Crowe and CareAbout discussing how M&A productivity platforms are helping companies close deals faster, seamlessly manage the deal process, and reduce risk while saving time and money.

5 Ways the New Midaxo Platform Powers Better Dealmaking  On Demand  An overview of the dramatic improvements made to the Midaxo platform to make M&A efforts more effective and efficient  and less risky. Key takeaways include the "must have" capabilities in the new Midaxo platform, such as deal sourcing, diligence, and integration. The on-demand webinar also features an overview of the new platform architecture and a preview of the new features planned for 2023.

Conferences

M&A Conference at Wharton San Francisco  March 15-16, 2023  Midaxo will serve as a sponsor for the annual event designed to give senior corporate development leaders, in-house M&A counsel, and highly acquisitive private equity investors the opportunity to discuss the challenges impacting their most complex transactions. Midaxo representatives will be available in in the exhibits area to discuss the advanced capabilities of the company's new AI-powered corporate dealmaking platform. Future conferences will take place in Chicago and New York City .

About Midaxo

Midaxo is the leading software platform for corporate dealmaking. Digitally transforming the dealmaking process, Midaxo leverages automation, AI, and machine learning to deliver breakthrough productivity gains while decreasing deal risk. The modular Midaxo SaaS platform can be configured for each customer to enable corporate development and M&A leaders at large and medium-sized enterprises and private equity firms to find, evaluate, and deliver value from new deals with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The CRM module makes it easy to identify and manage 5x more targets. The collaborative due diligence module reduces diligence time 50% compared to traditional approaches. The integration module provides structure for post-merger integrations, accelerating time to value up to 40%. The platform functions as the system of record while reducing risk throughout the acquisition process. Midaxo customers include Ascensus, Banner Health, Cognizant, Daimler AG, Professional Services Co., and United Site Services. For more information, visit Midaxo.com.

All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners.

SOURCE MIDAXO, INC.
TOKYO, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, a leading defense and space company, and Astroscale Holdings Inc., the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term sustainability across all orbits, announced today that Mitsubishi Electric has invested U.S. $25 million in Astroscale's Series G funding round. Separate from the investment, the companies have agreed to collaborate in the joint development and manufacturing of sustainably designed satellite buses for Japanese national security constellations.

The satellite buses will be equipped with an Astroscale docking plate, similar to a car tow hook, with a standardized interface. This allows other spacecraft to dock with and move or remove satellites if they are unable to deorbit themselves at the end of their operational lives. Preparing satellites in this sustainable manner minimizes costs and maximizes safety for future on-orbit servicing.

"The world depends on satellites more than ever before, so if the orbital environment is disrupted or becomes unusable, our lives will be irrevocably changed," said Nobu Okada, Founder and CEO of Astroscale. "Space is a special domain shared by the equally important commercial, civil and defense sectors. We are proud to partner with Mitsubishi Electric to assure that our orbital environment remains safe, secure and sustainable, and that more objects operating in space are designed for future servicing and removal."

About Mitsubishi Electric

With more than 100 years of experience in providing reliable, high-quality products, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) is a recognised world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment used in information processing and communications, space development and satellite communications, consumer electronics, industrial technology, energy, transportation and building equipment. Mitsubishi Electric enriches society with technology in the spirit of its "Changes for the Better." The company recorded a revenue of 4,476.7 billion yen (U.S.$ 36.7 billion*) in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2022. For more information, please visit www.MitsubishiElectric.com

*U.S. dollar amounts are translated from yen at the rate of 122=U.S.$1, the approximate rate on the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on March 31, 2022

About Astroscale

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations and is dedicated to on-orbit servicing across all orbits.

Founded in 2013, Astroscale is developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of on-orbit servicing, including life extension, in situ space situational awareness, end-of-life, and active debris removal, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate the growing and hazardous buildup of debris in space. Astroscale is also defining business cases and working with government and commercial stakeholders to develop norms, regulations, and incentives for the responsible use of space.

Headquartered in Japan, Astroscale has an international presence with subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel. Astroscale is a rapidly expanding venture company, working to advance safe and sustainable growth in space and solve a growing environmental concern.

Find out more about Astroscale at www.astroscale.com.

SOURCE Astroscale Holdings
La Canciller Ana Cecilia Gervasi inicia su participacion en el 52 periodo de sesiones del Consejo de DDHH y de la Conferencia de Desarme en Ginebra, Suiza, donde sostendra reuniones bilaterales y multilaterales con importantes socios de nuestro pais. pic.twitter.com/oSRcac3x0r
DALLAS, Feb 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MPK Equity Partners, LLC ("MPK") announced today the sale of its portfolio company Unleashed Brands, LLC ("Unleashed") to Seidler Equity Partners. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Headquartered in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Unleashed is the first of its kind Youth Enrichment franchise platform, representing a collection of premier, high-growth franchise brands focused on the needs of children as they "learn, play and grow". Founded as Urban Air Adventure Park ("Urban Air") in 2011 by CEO, Michael Browning, Unleashed's platform has quickly evolved and now positively impacts America's youth at every stage of their development journey. Today, Unleashed is the #1 franchise platform serving families, and its category-leading brands currently include Urban Air Adventure Park, Snapology, The Little Gym, XP League, Premier Martial Arts, and Class 101. These brands collectively serve over 25 million children annually.

MPK, along with AHR Growth Partners and Mantucket Capital, partnered with Michael Browning in 2018 to pursue a strategy of franchise growth with the Urban Air brand. Given the success of Urban Air, Unleashed Brands was created in 2021 to leverage the systems, platform, and outstanding team that had been built at Urban Air to develop and acquire other category-leading brands serving America's youth.

"Michael Browning is a true visionary. Over the past decade, he has evolved a simple trampoline park, headquartered in a small garage, to what Unleashed is today. He and his team continue to partner with incredible franchisees who seek to have a positive impact on the lives of every child and every family coming through their doors by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences. Our society needs more visionaries and passionate entrepreneurs like Michael," said Patrick K. McGee, Managing Partner of MPK.

"It has been a privilege working with the entire Unleashed team over the last several years. We have watched them successfully navigate growing from 38 Urban Air locations at the time of our investment to over 800 locations across six brands today," said Nick Huerta, a Partner of MPK. "The team's collective dedication to Unleashed's mission of helping kids become the best version of themselves is inspiring, and we are excited to see where this next chapter takes them."

Michael Browning, Founder and CEO of Unleashed, added: "Our partnership with MPK has been wonderful. The Unleashed team is grateful for the many insights and strategic vision provided by Patrick, Nick, and the rest of the MPK team. We are all proud of what has been created and look forward to the many opportunities ahead with the Unleashed Brands."

About MPK Equity Partners

MPK is a Dallas-based private investment firm partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs and executives to invest in and acquire growing, profitable, category-leading companies. Among other high-growth sectors, MPK has a particular focus on partnering with founder-owned franchisors. In addition to Unleashed Brands, past and present MPK franchisor investments include Radiance Holdings (a leading platform for health, wellness, and beauty franchisors, including Sola Salon Studios and The Woodhouse Day Spa), Stellar Service Brands (a leading residential services platform, including Restoration 1, bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, Softroc, and The Driveway Company), Zoom Drain, and PatchMaster. For more information, please visit www.mpkequitypartners.com.

About Unleashed Brands

Unleashed Brands currently includes portfolio brands Urban Air, Snapology, The Little Gym, XP League, Class 101, and Premier Martial Arts and was founded to curate and grow a portfolio of the most innovative and profitable brands that help kids learn, play and grow. Over the last 10 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform and know-how for scaling businesses focused on serving families. Its mission is to impact the lives of every kid by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences that help them become who they are destined to be. For more information, please visit www.unleashedbrands.com.

CONTACT: [email protected]

SOURCE MPK Equity Partners, LLC
The New Alliance Between the MBDA and the NABB Aims to Amplify Black Business Development and Global Competitiveness as Part of a Growing Movement to Form a Nationally Unified Black Business Agenda

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On Wednesday, February 22, 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), and the National Alliance for Black Business (NABB) signed a historic MOU during the NABB's first annual National Black Business Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. The NABB was co-founded by the National Business League (NBL) and the National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), which represent a combined 153 years of service to Black businesses and are now collectively working to organize a unified national black economic agenda.

National Alliance for Black Business (NBAA) and Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Sign Historic MOU Agreement Tweet this Pictured [L-R] Charles H. DeBow, III, President/CEO, National Black Chamber of Commerce (Founded 1993), Donald R. Cravins, Jr., Under Secretary, U.S. Department of Commerce, Minority Business Development Agency (Founded 1969) and Dr. Ken L. Harris, Ph.D., President/CEO, The National Business League (Founded 1900) The National Business League Official Logo

"This historic agreement between MBDA and the NABB will strengthen our collective mission to create a strong, equitable economy for all minority businesses and entrepreneurs," said Donald R. Cravins, Jr., Under Secretary of the Minority Business Development Agency. "Both MBDA and the NABB have uplifted Black businesses in the decades since they were formed. But together under this agreement, we can break down more barriers, open new opportunities, and create greater access for even more minority entrepreneurs and founders to thrive."

More than 100 distinguished Black business leaders, organizations, and corporate executives assembled with the Department of Commerce Under Secretary Donald Cravins Jr., Esq. Among them were NABB Co-founders Kenneth L. Harris, Ph.D. (NBL) and Charles H. DeBow, III (NBCC); Hon. Johnny Ford, founder and president of the World Conference of Mayors; Helena Hutton, senior director of strategic purchasing, supplier diversity and environmental sustainability, Cummins Inc., and member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable; Jane Reindorf-Attoh, CEO, JT International; and conference keynote speaker Terri L. Batch, Director of the U.S. Global Diversity Export Initiative, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration.

"The alliance between the NABB and the U.S. Department of Commerce is a powerful collaboration to build Black economic equity through enterprise ownership and development," said Charles H. DeBow, III, president and CEO of the NBCC and co-founder of the NABB.

The MOU establishes a framework for the MBDA and the NABB to collaborate on efforts to increase the growth and global scaling of more than 3.2 million Black American businesses, with an estimated $141.1 billion in annual receipts, 1.3 million employees, and about $42.2 billion in annual payroll (2022 U.S. Census). As part of this alliance, MBDA and the NABB will share information and raise public awareness of each other's programs and initiatives.

In 1969, the late Berkeley G. Burrell, the 10th national president of the NBL, played an instrumental role in the founding and creation of the Office of Minority Business Enterprise (OMBE), known today as the MBDA. Mr. Burrell was vice president of the Advisory Council for Minority Enterprise and under his leadership, the NBL and OMBE initiated decades of Black business participation in the public and private sectors.

"The MBDA was born out of the civil rights movement, as an intentional solution to curb the economic conditions experienced in the Black community that caused Black resistance, rebellion, and retribution in the streets," said Kenneth L. Harris, Ph.D., president and CEO of the NBL and co-founder of NABB. "By continuing the legacy of Booker T. Washington, today we forge partnerships with aligned priorities to broker economic opportunities for Black businesses that are essential in the global marketplace."

About the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA)

The MBDA, as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, is the only federal agency created specifically to foster the establishment, growth, and global competitiveness of minority-owned businesses in America. The agency is committed to wealth creation in minority communities. Visit www.mbda.gov

About the National Alliance for Black Business (NABB)

The NABB represents a historic partnership between the NBL, the NBCC, and a consortium of Black-led national organizations dedicated to a unified global Black business agenda. Visit www.nationalallianceforblackbusiness.com

About the National Business League (NBL)

The NBL, founded by the legendary Booker T. Washington, is the nation's first and oldest trade association for Black business and celebrates 123 years of service to Black business and the African diaspora. Visit www.nationalbusinessleague.org

About the National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC)

The NBCC is the largest federation of Black Chambers of Commerce in the world and celebrates 30 years of service to Black businesses throughout the United States and internationally. Visit www.nationalblackcc.org

MEDIA CONTACTS

Gabriel Cushing: (202) 482-4086 email: [email protected] (MBDA)

Minehaha Forman: (510) 220-0759 email: [email protected] (NABB)

SOURCE The National Business League
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Nevada King Gold Corp. (TSXV: NKG) (OTCQX: NKGFF) ("Nevada King" or the "Company") is pleased to announce assay results from six reverse circulation ("RC") holes and one core hole recently completed at its Atlanta Gold Mine Project located 264km northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, in the prolific Battle Mountain Trend. These holes plotted along Section 22-7N were drilled across the high-grade feeder zone associated with several strands of a braided network of structures comprising the Atlanta Mine Fault Zone ("AMFZ").

Highlights:

Figure 1. Location map for holes reported in this news release along drill section22-7N relative to the perimeter of the historical Atlanta Pit and footprint of the Gustavson 2020 NI 43-101 resource. Shallow drillholes on the mine dumps have been removed from the plot for clarity. (CNW Group/Nevada King Gold Corp.) Figure 2. Cross section 22-7N looking north across the southern portion of the Atlanta Mine Fault Zone. Shallow intrusive activity and closely associated gold mineralization are localized within the volcanic and sedimentary sequence along the western side of the West Altanta Fault. Higher grade mineralization is concentrated within narrow fault blocks formed between the East Atlanta and Atlanta King Faults and along the West Atlanta Fault. (CNW Group/Nevada King Gold Corp.)

Hole No From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Notes AT22HG-3T*^ 170.4 285.4 93.6 2.18 17.1 Bottomed in Mineralization Includes 170.4 231.4 61.0 1.31 0.16

And 252.7 285.4 32.6 3.83 48.7 Bottomed in Mineralization Includes 261.0 266.0 5.0 10.94 33.2

AT22NS-54 170.7 216.5 45.7 4.21 79.6

Includes 173.8 199.7 25.9 5.40 113.8

AT22NS-73 22.9 103.7 80.8 2.31 47.4



















Table 1: Highlight holes released today. Mineralization occurs along sub-horizontal horizons generally dipping gently westward; true mineralized thickness in vertical holes is between 85% and 95% of reported drill intercept length. *Denotes core hole. ^Reported as an aggregate assay interval within the longer drill interval.



Holes released today tie into two parallel drill sections previously released: Section22-6N (released January 6, 2023 ) 27.5m to the south and Section 22-8N (released February 1, 2023 ) 27.5m to the north. Good continuity in geology and Au-Ag mineralization is seen between all three sections, with higher grade mineralization occurring between the East Atlanta and Atlanta King Faults and on both sides of the West Atlanta Fault (Figure 2).





Good continuity in geology and Au-Ag mineralization is seen between all three sections, with higher grade mineralization occurring between the and King Faults and on both sides of the West Atlanta Fault (Figure 2). Section 22-7N demonstrates an east-west width of contiguous mineralization that exceeds 300m . This includes the 100m -wide higher-grade AMFZ, as well as over 200m of lower grade mineralization extending westward from the West Atlanta Fault, where mineralization remains open to depth and to the west.





This includes the -wide higher-grade AMFZ, as well as over of lower grade mineralization extending westward from the West Atlanta Fault, where mineralization remains open to depth and to the west. Shallow oxide mineralization present in AT22NS-73 ( 80.8m of 2.31 g/t Au and 47.4 g/t Ag starting at 22.9m ) is typical of the thicker, higher-grade mineralization encountered along the 30m -wide, wedge-shaped block occurring between the East Atlanta and Atlanta King Faults. Nevada King is currently drilling along strike of this fault block to better define this near surface, high-grade Au-Ag zone.





is currently drilling along strike of this fault block to better define this near surface, high-grade Au-Ag zone. Mineralization in hole AT22NS-54 ( 45.7m of 4.21 g/t Au and 79.6 g/t Ag starting at 171m ) is typical of thicker, higher-grade mineralization seen in down-dropped blocks along the West Atlanta Fault. Immediately west of AT22NS-54 are two historical holes that tested an adjacent fault block, returning 45m at 5.24 g/t Au and 40.7 g/t Ag in AR-21 and 48.8m at 3.95 g/t Au and 46.9 g/t Ag in 88-13 (see Table 3). Taken together, both fault blocks are about 50m wide and strike parallel to the West Atlanta Fault. The Company is currently drill-defining this important structural corridor along strike with the objective of expanding tonnage and grade within a relatively shallow part of the resource zone.





Immediately west of AT22NS-54 are two historical holes that tested an adjacent fault block, returning at 5.24 g/t Au and 40.7 g/t Ag in AR-21 and at 3.95 g/t Au and 46.9 g/t Ag in 88-13 (see Table 3). Taken together, both fault blocks are about wide and strike parallel to the West Atlanta Fault. The Company is currently drill-defining this important structural corridor along strike with the objective of expanding tonnage and grade within a relatively shallow part of the resource zone. The broad expanse of deep, lower grade mineralization hosted within variably silicified volcanics and underlying silicified breccia occurring west of the West Atlanta Fault starts at depths of 150m to 250m and typically extends to depths of 300m to 400m , although many of Nevada King's holes and historical holes bottomed in mineralization, so the lower depth constraint is uncertain. Core hole AT22HG-3T and RC hole AT22HG-4, drilled west of the West Atlanta Fault, intercepted 93.6m averaging 2.18 g/t Au and 17.1 g/t Ag and 41.2m grading 1.92 g/t Au and 22.7 g/t Ag, respectively (see Table 2).

Cal Herron, Exploration Manager of Nevada King. stated, "The four southern-most drill sections (Sections 22-5N, 6N, 7N, and 8N) across the AMFZ show strong correlation of geology and mineralization between the sections, allowing further refinement to our geologic model for the gold and silver mineralization at Atlanta, (see Geologic Model Discussion section below). A primary focus of the 2023 drilling program is defining and following structures responsible for localizing higher-grades. As we've already seen, this requires closely spaced holes in order to tie together the fault blocks and wedges hosting high grades along the AMFZ. Nevada King's new geologic model now gives us a "blue print" for targeting higher-grade Au-Ag mineralization to add to the Atlanta resource model. To this end, one rig is currently engaged in definition drilling along the AMFZ and a second drill will soon be added. At the same time, defining the thick mineralization seen west of the West Atlanta Fault provides significant blue sky potential at Atlanta, where mineralization remains open to depth and to the west. As such, the Company has dedicated one drill for this area in order to vectorize the mineralization and expedite our evaluation process."

Hole No From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Notes AT22HG-5 186.0 279.0 93.0 1.14 2.1 Bottomed in Mineralization AT22HG-3T* 170.4 231.4 61.0 1.31 0.158

and 252.7 285.4 32.6 3.83 48.7 Bottomed in Mineralization Includes 261.0 266.0 5.0 10.94 33.2

AT22HG-4 175.3 192.1 16.8 0.58 0.5

and 216.5 240.9 24.4 2.84 38.0

AT22NS-54 170.7 216.5 45.7 4.21 79.6

Includes 173.8 199.7 25.9 5.40 113.8

AT22NS-56A 93.0 106.7 13.7 1.88 38.5

AT22NS-76 70.1 100.6 30.5 2.39 41.5

AT22NS-73 22.9 103.7 80.8 2.31 47.4



Table 2: All holes released today. *Denotes core hole.

Hole No From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Notes AT21-68C 99.1 120.3 21.2 3.28 34.4

DHRI-11-1C* 74.7 97.5 22.8 1.9 19.72

DHRI-11-4C* 178.3 301.8 123.5 1.1 9.0

DHRI-11-6C* 227.1 295.1 68 1.11 15.72 Bottomed in Mineralization KR97-8 172.2 195.1 22.9 0.72 0.72

KR97-11 173.8 205.8 32 2.00 9.75

AC-1 118.6 163.6 45 5.24 40.7

AR-19 228.6 304.8 76.2 0.82 3.52 Bottomed in Mineralization AR-21 240.8 304.8 64 0.39 4.21 Bottomed in Mineralization GC96-7 152.4 108.2 44.2 0.87 23.18

88-13 121.9 170.7 48.8 3.95 46.9



Table 3: Previously reported and historic holes used in Section 22-8N. AT21 series hole was drilled by Nevada King in 2021. The KR97 series holes were drilled by Kinross in 1997, the AC series hole was drilled by Goldfields in 1990, and the 88 series holes were drilled by Bobcat in 1988. Due to the multiple orientations of gold mineralization interpreted in today's release, the Company has not yet estimated true widths for individual intercepts. *Denotes core hole.





Geologic Model Discussion

The northerly trending, 100m to 150m wide AMFZ is the dominant structural control over higher-grade mineralization at Atlanta. It focused shallow intrusive activity and the associated hydrothermal system responsible for Au-Ag mineralization. The AMFZ is actually a narrow, up-thrown horst block of Eureka Quartzite and overlying Ely Springs Dolomite that is bounded on the east by the Atlanta King and East Atlanta Faults, and on the west by the West Atlanta Fault and its subsidiary fractures. Gold mineralization preferentially occurs within the Ely Springs Dolomite, whereas the underlying Eureka Quartzite is generally barren. Much of the dolomite in the horst block was stripped off by erosion when the block was uplifted, so the mineralization on top of the quartzite is thin and lower grade. In contrast, thicker and higher grade mineralization was focused in thick sections of down-dropped dolomite within the adjacent graben blocks on both sides of the horst. Normal faults separating these major blocks served as conduits for magma and mineralizing fluids that invaded adjacent dolomite, thereby creating extensive decalcification, collapse brecciation, and subsequent Au-Ag mineralization. Narrow, confined fault wedges adjacent to the major normal faults are altered more strongly and host the highest grades, as seen in drill holes AT22NS-73 and AT22NS-54.

Mineralization west of the West Atlanta Fault occurs within a gently west-dipping sequence of caldera-related volcanics on top of silica breccia and Ely Springs Dolomite. The silica breccia and dolomite are underlain by Eureka Quartzite that is usually barren of mineralization. As seen in Figure 2, faults displacing the basement sequence focus mineralization and strong oxidation. Mineralization within the silica breccia horizon tends to be higher grade and oxidized whereas mineralization in the overlying volcanic sequence is generally low grade (0.2-0.5 g/t Au). Oxidation in the mineralized volcanics appears to be a function of proximity to faults. Historical drill hole density in this area is low, and many of the holes did not penetrate the volcanic cover or go through the silica breccia horizon. We, therefore, have a large, sparsely-tested area to explore all along the western side of the West Atlanta Fault where we are finding a 100m thick, near-horizontal zone of gold mineralization that remains open to the west and to depth.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Calvin R. Herron, P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101").

About Nevada King Gold Corp.

Nevada King is the third largest mineral claim holder in the State of Nevada, behind Nevada Gold Mines (Barrick/Newmont) and Kinross Gold. Starting in 2016 the Company has staked large project areas hosting significant historical exploration work along the Battle Mountain trend located close to current or former producing gold mines. These project areas were initially targeted based on their potential for hosting multi-million-ounce gold deposits and were subsequently staked following a detailed geological evaluation. District-scale projects in Nevada King's portfolio include (1) the 100% owned Atlanta Mine, located 100km southeast of Ely, (2) the Lewis and Horse Mountain-Mill Creek projects, both located between Nevada Gold Mines' large Phoenix and Pipeline mines, and (3) the Iron Point project, located 35km east of Winnemucca, Nevada.

The Company is well funded with cash of approximately $9.3 million as of February 2023.

The Atlanta Mine is a historical gold-silver producer with a NI 43-101 compliant pit-constrained resource of 460,000 oz Au in the measured and indicated category (11.0M tonnes at 1.3 g/t) plus an inferred resource of 142,000 oz Au (5.3M tonnes at 0.83 g/t). See the NI 43-101 Technical Report on Resources titled "Atlanta Property, Lincoln County, NV" with an effective date of October 6, 2020, and a report date of December 22, 2020, as prepared by Gustavson Associates and filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).

NI 43-101 Mineral Resources at the Atlanta Mine

Resource Category Tonnes (000's) Au Grade (ppm) Contained Au

Oz Ag Grade (ppm) Contained Ag

Oz Measured 4,130 1.51 200,000 14.0 1,860,000 Indicated 6,910 1.17 260,000 10.6 2,360,000 Measured + Indicated 11,000 1.30 460,000 11.9 4,220,000 Inferred 5,310 0.83 142,000 7.3 1,240,000

Please see the Company's website at www.nevadaking.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating the future operations and activities of Nevada King, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the Company's exploration plans and the Company's ability to potentially expand mineral resources and the impact thereon. 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. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Nevada King, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability to complete proposed exploration work given the global COVID-19 pandemic, the results of exploration, continued availability of capital, and changes in general economic, market and business conditions. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Nevada King does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE Nevada King Gold Corp.
The nation's longest-running edtech and workforce technology VC has generated outsized returns and measurable social impact by investing in evidence-based solutions

FULTON, Md., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- New Markets Venture Partners , the nation's premier edtech and workforce technology venture capital firm today announced that it successfully raised more than $160M for its new fund, New Markets Education Partners III, LP. Founded in 2002, this is the MD-based firm's fifth fund and is specifically designed to advance New Markets' strategy of investing in early- and growth-stage companies with demonstrated efficacy in improving student and workforce outcomes.

Over the last two decades, New Markets has made equity investments in 41 companies, with a particular focus on edtech and workforce technology companies, measurably improving economic mobility for more than 47 million Americans while generating $3.3 billion in value for shareholders. With 26 realizations since 2012, New Markets has one of the strongest proven records of successful exits, cash distributions back to limited partners, and positive social returns of any impact investor in the country.

The firm's disciplined investing strategy has consistently generated outsized returns for limited partners with a very low loss rate, while focusing on evidence-based solutions that generate authentic, measurable impact. This track record is the result of New Markets' expertise in finding double-bottom-line companies led by visionary founders with research-based, efficacious interventions that drive systemic change and strong risk-adjusted returns in lockstep. The New Markets team has a long history as a double-bottom-line investor and has been driving sustainable social impact since pioneering work in the Socially Responsible Investor (SRI) movement of the early 1990s.

"We are fortunate to have this unique opportunity to provide capital and support to the most deserving mission-driven education and workforce entrepreneurs," said Mark Grovic, Co-Founder and General Partner of New Markets Venture Partners, who has dedicated his life and career to market-rate impact investing since the early 1990s when he served as Portfolio Manager at the Calvert Group, a pioneer in impact investing. "Over the last three decades, we have accumulated the assets and experience to understand the challenges faced by the nation's top education and workforce entrepreneurs and to help them overcome these challenges."

Over the last three years, New Markets has invested in seven new companies and realized 10 investments including Credly, Presence, LearnPlatform, Signal Vine, Kickboard, Mursion, StraighterLine, Whiteboard Advisors, Galvanize, and Graduation Alliance, which totaled more than $1 billion in market value and returned over $100 million to limited partners.

As explained by Gregg Rosann, President, CTO, and Co-Founder of Graduation Alliance, the market-leading high school dropout recovery platform, which was acquired by KKR Global Impact, "Find an investor that understands you, your potential, your roadblocks and ways to overcome them. New Markets understood us  they were the right partner at the right time."

The continued growth of New Markets and its portfolio comes at a time when global edtech investing is down by nearly 50%, according to HolonIQ. The new fund underscores and strengthens New Markets' proven ability to successfully navigate three previous recessions and commitment to invest in innovative, scalable companies with evidence-based solutions that focus on increasing the proportion of underserved Americans who achieve critical, research-based, developmental milestones in education, career, and life.

The Fund will target Series A and B investments and opportunistic recapitalizations focusing on companies generating $2M to $50M of revenue with a high potential to grow to $50M to $200M in revenue and reach profitability within three years of the initial investment.

Former entrepreneur Jason Palmer, General Partner of New Markets and previously Deputy Director of Education at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, comments, "We are honored to work with the nation's most innovative founders, scaling new technologies that can truly transform education and work. These entrepreneurs are literally re-inventing education-to-workforce connections, building more equitable pathways to the middle class for millions of Americans from underserved backgrounds  and doing so in a way that proves capitalism can do good."

In raising this fund, New Markets received significant support from its existing investor base and also welcomed several new U.S. and European education-focused foundations and endowments. Equally importantly, New Markets received commitments from multiple publicly traded strategic investors validating the firm's evidence-based investment strategy to drive collective impact, unique deal flow, and thought leadership. These new limited partners include academic publishers, global skills development leaders, human resources experts, and large-impact investment funds, among others.

Robb Doub, Co-Founder and General Partner of New Markets Venture Partners adds, "We are honored to be trusted by a group of limited partners with deep knowledge of the education and workforce industry. We look forward to continuing to work with exceptional management teams and fellow impact investors to build successful companies."

New Markets' hands-on approach and deep expertise along the education and workforce continuum help visionary entrepreneurs and their teams form partnerships with school districts, universities, states, and employers. These types of mission-critical relationships measurably improve the lives of students and workers throughout the United States, especially those from underserved backgrounds.

"New Markets played an instrumental role in supporting Presence from its infancy to our current leadership position in the special education teletherapy market," said Kate Eberle Walker, CEO of Presence. "Their team brought a consistent and intentional focus to company building and evidence-based solution development focused on student outcomes. This expertise enabled our company to achieve rapid growth while remaining true to our mission to empower all who serve students with diverse needs. New Markets was a critical partner in our success over more than eight years, a thoughtful advisor through thick times and thin, and continues to support us as an important connector to emerging innovative partners in our sector. New Markets' commitment to double bottom-line investing and efficacy-based solutions is unparalleled."

About New Markets Venture Partners

New Markets Venture Partners is one of the nation's leading impact venture capital firms that invests in and actively assists early- and growth-stage education and workforce technology companies. The New Markets team has three decades of experience supporting evidence-based, high-growth companies that improve economic and social mobility by leveraging deep relationships with centers of education and workforce innovation. New Markets prides itself on adding value to its portfolio companies before, during, and after the investment process, with the ultimate goal of improving both individual outcomes and America's education and workforce system. To learn more, please visit www.newmarketsvp.com

Media Contact

Alyssa Miller

[email protected]

973-615-1292

SOURCE New Markets Venture Partners
JUNO BEACH, Fla., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) and NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE: NEP) today announced that members of the senior management team will participate in various investor meetings at the end of February and throughout March. They plan to discuss, among other things, long-term growth rate expectations for NextEra Energy and NextEra Energy Partners. Investors and other interested parties can access a copy of the presentation materials at www.NextEraEnergy.com/investors or www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com.

(PRNewsfoto/NextEra Energy Partners, LP) (PRNewsfoto/NextEra Energy, Inc.)

NextEra Energy, Inc.

NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE) is a leading clean energy company headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida. NextEra Energy owns Florida Power & Light Company, which is America's largest electric utility that sells more power than any other utility, providing clean, affordable, reliable electricity to approximately 5.8 million customer accounts, or more than 12 million people across Florida. NextEra Energy also owns a competitive clean energy business, NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, which, together with its affiliated entities, is the world's largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage. Through its subsidiaries, NextEra Energy generates clean, emissions-free electricity from seven commercial nuclear power units in Florida, New Hampshire and Wisconsin. NextEra Energy has been recognized often by third parties for its efforts in sustainability, corporate responsibility, ethics and compliance, and diversity. NextEra Energy is ranked No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry on Fortune's 2023 list of "World's Most Admired Companies," recognized on Fortune's 2021 list of companies that "Change the World" and received the S&P Global Platts 2020 Energy Transition Award for leadership in environmental, social and governance. For more information about NextEra Energy companies, visit these websites: www.NextEraEnergy.com, www.FPL.com, www.NextEraEnergyResources.com .

NextEra Energy Partners, LP

NextEra Energy Partners, LP (NYSE: NEP) is a growth-oriented limited partnership formed by NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE). NextEra Energy Partners acquires, manages and owns contracted clean energy projects with stable, long-term cash flows. Headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, NextEra Energy Partners owns interests in geographically diverse wind, solar and energy storage projects in the U.S. as well as natural gas infrastructure assets in Texas and Pennsylvania. For more information about NextEra Energy Partners, please visit: www.NextEraEnergyPartners.com.

Cautionary Statements and Risk Factors That May Affect Future Results for NextEra Energy, Inc.

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but instead represent the current expectations of NextEra Energy, Inc. (NextEra Energy) and Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) regarding future operating results and other future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of NextEra Energy's and FPL's control. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements concerning long-term growth rate expectations. In some cases, you can identify the forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "will," "may result," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "plan," "seek," "potential," "projection," "forecast," "predict," "goals," "target," "outlook," "should," "would" or similar words or expressions. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance. The future results of NextEra Energy and FPL and their business and financial condition are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause their actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, or may require them to limit or eliminate certain operations. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, those discussed in this news release and the following: effects of extensive regulation of NextEra Energy's and FPL's business operations; inability of NextEra Energy and FPL to recover in a timely manner any significant amount of costs, a return on certain assets or a reasonable return on invested capital through base rates, cost recovery clauses, other regulatory mechanisms or otherwise; impact of political, regulatory, operational and economic factors on regulatory decisions important to NextEra Energy and FPL; disallowance of cost recovery by FPL based on a finding of imprudent use of derivative instruments; effect of any reductions or modifications to, or elimination of, governmental incentives or policies that support utility scale renewable energy projects of NextEra Energy and FPL and its affiliated entities or the imposition of additional tax laws, tariffs, duties, policies or assessments on renewable energy or equipment necessary to generate it or deliver it; impact of new or revised laws, regulations, interpretations or constitutional ballot and regulatory initiatives on NextEra Energy and FPL; capital expenditures, increased operating costs and various liabilities attributable to environmental laws, regulations and other standards applicable to NextEra Energy and FPL; effects on NextEra Energy and FPL of federal or state laws or regulations mandating new or additional limits on the production of greenhouse gas emissions; exposure of NextEra Energy and FPL to significant and increasing compliance costs and substantial monetary penalties and other sanctions as a result of extensive federal regulation of their operations and businesses; effect on NextEra Energy and FPL of changes in tax laws, guidance or policies as well as in judgments and estimates used to determine tax-related asset and liability amounts; impact on NextEra Energy and FPL of adverse results of litigation; impacts on NextEra Energy or FPL of allegations of violations of law; effect on NextEra Energy and FPL of failure to proceed with projects under development or inability to complete the construction of (or capital improvements to) electric generation, transmission and distribution facilities, gas infrastructure facilities or other facilities on schedule or within budget; impact on development and operating activities of NextEra Energy and FPL resulting from risks related to project siting, planning, financing, construction, permitting, governmental approvals and the negotiation of project development agreements, as well as supply chain disruptions; risks involved in the operation and maintenance of electric generation, transmission and distribution facilities, gas infrastructure facilities, retail gas distribution system in Florida and other facilities; effect on NextEra Energy and FPL of a lack of growth or slower growth in the number of customers or in customer usage; impact on NextEra Energy and FPL of severe weather and other weather conditions; threats of geopolitical factors, terrorism and catastrophic events that could result from terrorism, cyberattacks or other attempts to disrupt NextEra Energy's and FPL's business or the businesses of third parties; inability to obtain adequate insurance coverage for protection of NextEra Energy and FPL against significant losses and risk that insurance coverage does not provide protection against all significant losses; a prolonged period of low gas and oil prices could impact NextEra Energy Resources, LLC's (NextEra Energy Resources) gas infrastructure business and cause NextEra Energy Resources to delay or cancel certain gas infrastructure projects and could result in certain projects becoming impaired; risk to NextEra Energy Resources of increased operating costs resulting from unfavorable supply costs necessary to provide NextEra Energy Resources' full energy and capacity requirement services; inability or failure by NextEra Energy Resources to manage properly or hedge effectively the commodity risk within its portfolio; effect of reductions in the liquidity of energy markets on NextEra Energy's ability to manage operational risks; effectiveness of NextEra Energy's and FPL's risk management tools associated with their hedging and trading procedures to protect against significant losses, including the effect of unforeseen price variances from historical behavior; impact of unavailability or disruption of power transmission or commodity transportation facilities on sale and delivery of power or natural gas by NextEra Energy, including FPL; exposure of NextEra Energy and FPL to credit and performance risk from customers, hedging counterparties and vendors; failure of NextEra Energy or FPL counterparties to perform under derivative contracts or of requirement for NextEra Energy or FPL to post margin cash collateral under derivative contracts; failure or breach of NextEra Energy's or FPL's information technology systems; risks to NextEra Energy and FPL's retail businesses from compromise of sensitive customer data; losses from volatility in the market values of derivative instruments and limited liquidity in over-the-counter markets; impact of negative publicity; inability of FPL to maintain, negotiate or renegotiate acceptable franchise agreements with municipalities and counties in Florida; occurrence of work strikes or stoppages and increasing personnel costs; NextEra Energy's ability to successfully identify, complete and integrate acquisitions, including the effect of increased competition for acquisitions; environmental, health and financial risks associated with NextEra Energy Resources' and FPL's ownership and operation of nuclear generation facilities; liability of NextEra Energy and FPL for significant retrospective assessments and/or retrospective insurance premiums in the event of an incident at certain nuclear generation facilities; increased operating and capital expenditures and/or reduced revenues at nuclear generation facilities of NextEra Energy or FPL resulting from orders or new regulations of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; inability to operate any of NextEra Energy Resources' or FPL's owned nuclear generation units through the end of their respective operating licenses; effect of disruptions, uncertainty or volatility in the credit and capital markets or actions by third parties in connection with project-specific or other financing arrangements on NextEra Energy's and FPL's ability to fund their liquidity and capital needs and meet their growth objectives; inability of NextEra Energy, FPL and NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc. to maintain their current credit ratings; impairment of NextEra Energy's and FPL's liquidity from inability of credit providers to fund their credit commitments or to maintain their current credit ratings; poor market performance and other economic factors that could affect NextEra Energy's defined benefit pension plan's funded status; poor market performance and other risks to the asset values of NextEra Energy's and FPL's nuclear decommissioning funds; changes in market value and other risks to certain of NextEra Energy's investments; effect of inability of NextEra Energy subsidiaries to pay upstream dividends or repay funds to NextEra Energy or of NextEra Energy's performance under guarantees of subsidiary obligations on NextEra Energy's ability to meet its financial obligations and to pay dividends on its common stock; the fact that the amount and timing of dividends payable on NextEra Energy's common stock, as well as the dividend policy approved by NextEra Energy's board of directors from time to time, and changes to that policy, are within the sole discretion of NextEra Energy's board of directors and, if declared and paid, dividends may be in amounts that are less than might be expected by shareholders; NextEra Energy Partners, LP's inability to access sources of capital on commercially reasonable terms could have an effect on its ability to consummate future acquisitions and on the value of NextEra Energy's limited partner interest in NextEra Energy Operating Partners, LP; effects of disruptions, uncertainty or volatility in the credit and capital markets on the market price of NextEra Energy's common stock; and the ultimate severity and duration of public health crises, epidemics and pandemics, and its effects on NextEra Energy's or FPL's businesses. NextEra Energy and FPL discuss these and other risks and uncertainties in their annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, and this news release should be read in conjunction with such SEC filings. The forward-looking statements made in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release and NextEra Energy and FPL undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Cautionary Statements and Risk Factors That May Affect Future Results for NextEra Energy Partners, LP

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical facts, but instead represent the current expectations of NextEra Energy Partners, LP (together with its subsidiaries, NEP) regarding future operating results and other future events, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of NEP's control. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements concerning long-term growth rate expectations. In some cases, you can identify the forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "will," "may result," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "intend," "plan," "seek," "aim," "potential," "projection," "forecast," "predict," "goals," "target," "outlook," "should," "would" or similar words or expressions. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance. The future results of NEP and its business and financial condition are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause NEP's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties could require NEP to limit or eliminate certain operations. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following: NEP's ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders is affected by the performance of its renewable energy projects which could be impacted by wind and solar conditions and in certain circumstances by market prices; Operation and maintenance of renewable energy projects and pipelines involve significant risks that could result in unplanned power outages, reduced output or capacity, personal injury or loss of life; NEP's business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects can be materially adversely affected by weather conditions, including, but not limited to, the impact of severe weather; NEP depends on certain of the renewable energy projects and pipelines in its portfolio for a substantial portion of its anticipated cash flows; NEP may pursue the repowering of renewable energy projects or the expansion of natural gas pipelines that would require up-front capital expenditures and could expose NEP to project development risks; Geopolitical factors, terrorist acts, cyberattacks or other similar events could impact NEP's projects, pipelines or surrounding areas and adversely affect its business; The ability of NEP to obtain insurance and the terms of any available insurance coverage could be materially adversely affected by international, national, state or local events and company-specific events, as well as the financial condition of insurers. NEP's insurance coverage does not provide protection against all significant losses; NEP relies on interconnection, transmission and other pipeline facilities of third parties to deliver energy from its renewable energy projects and to transport natural gas to and from its pipelines. If these facilities become unavailable, NEP's projects and pipelines may not be able to operate or deliver energy or may become partially or fully unavailable to transport natural gas; NEP's business is subject to liabilities and operating restrictions arising from environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, compliance with which may require significant capital expenditures, increase NEP's cost of operations and affect or limit its business plans; NEP's renewable energy projects or pipelines may be adversely affected by legislative changes or a failure to comply with applicable energy and pipeline regulations; Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex) may claim certain immunities under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act and Mexican law, and the subsidiaries' of NEP that directly own the natural gas pipeline assets located in Texas ability to sue or recover from Pemex for breach of contract may be limited and may be exacerbated if there is a deterioration in the economic relationship between the U.S. and Mexico; NEP does not own all of the land on which the projects in its portfolio are located and its use and enjoyment of the property may be adversely affected to the extent that there are any lienholders or land rights holders that have rights that are superior to NEP's rights or the U.S. Bureau of Land Management suspends its federal rights-of-way grants; NEP is subject to risks associated with litigation or administrative proceedings that could materially impact its operations, including, but not limited to, proceedings related to projects it acquires in the future; NEP's operations require NEP to comply with anti-corruption laws and regulations of the U.S. government and Mexico; NEP is subject to risks associated with its ownership interests in projects that are under construction, which could result in its inability to complete construction projects on time or at all, and make projects too expensive to complete or cause the return on an investment to be less than expected; NEP relies on a limited number of customers and is exposed to the risk that they may be unwilling or unable to fulfill their contractual obligations to NEP or that they otherwise terminate their agreements with NEP; NEP may not be able to extend, renew or replace expiring or terminated power purchase agreements (PPA), natural gas transportation agreements or other customer contracts at favorable rates or on a long-term basis; If the energy production by or availability of NEP's renewable energy projects is less than expected, they may not be able to satisfy minimum production or availability obligations under their PPAs; NEP's growth strategy depends on locating and acquiring interests in additional projects consistent with its business strategy at favorable prices; Reductions in demand for natural gas in the U.S. or Mexico and low market prices of natural gas could materially adversely affect NEP's pipeline operations and cash flows; Government laws, regulations and policies providing incentives and subsidies for clean energy could be changed, reduced or eliminated at any time and such changes may negatively impact NEP's growth strategy; NEP's growth strategy depends on the acquisition of projects developed by NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) and third parties, which face risks related to project siting, financing, construction, permitting, the environment, governmental approvals and the negotiation of project development agreements; Acquisitions of existing clean energy projects involve numerous risks; NEP may continue to acquire other sources of clean energy and may expand to include other types of assets. Any further acquisition of non-renewable energy projects may present unforeseen challenges and result in a competitive disadvantage relative to NEP's more-established competitors; NEP faces substantial competition primarily from regulated utility holding companies, developers, independent power producers, pension funds and private equity funds for opportunities in North America; The natural gas pipeline industry is highly competitive, and increased competitive pressure could adversely affect NEP's business; NEP may not be able to access sources of capital on commercially reasonable terms, which would have a material adverse effect on its ability to consummate future acquisitions and pursue other growth opportunities; Restrictions in NEP and its subsidiaries' financing agreements could adversely affect NEP's business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders; NEP's cash distributions to its unitholders may be reduced as a result of restrictions on NEP's subsidiaries' cash distributions to NEP under the terms of their indebtedness or other financing agreements; NEP's subsidiaries' substantial amount of indebtedness may adversely affect NEP's ability to operate its business, and its failure to comply with the terms of its subsidiaries' indebtedness could have a material adverse effect on NEP's financial condition; NEP is exposed to risks inherent in its use of interest rate swaps; Widespread public health crises and epidemics or pandemics may have material adverse impacts on NEP's business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders; NEE has influence over NEP; Under the cash sweep and credit support agreement, NEP receives credit support from NEE and its affiliates. NEP's subsidiaries may default under contracts or become subject to cash sweeps if credit support is terminated, if NEE or its affiliates fail to honor their obligations under credit support arrangements, or if NEE or another credit support provider ceases to satisfy creditworthiness requirements, and NEP will be required in certain circumstances to reimburse NEE for draws that are made on credit support; NextEra Energy Resources, LLC (NEER) and certain of its affiliates are permitted to borrow funds received by NextEra Energy Operating Partners, LP (NEP OpCo) or its subsidiaries and is obligated to return these funds only as needed to cover project costs and distributions or as demanded by NEP OpCo. NEP's financial condition and ability to make distributions to its unitholders, as well as its ability to grow distributions in the future, is highly dependent on NEER's performance of its obligations to return all or a portion of these funds; NEER's right of first refusal may adversely affect NEP's ability to consummate future sales or to obtain favorable sale terms; NextEra Energy Partners GP, Inc. (NEP GP) and its affiliates may have conflicts of interest with NEP and have limited duties to NEP and its unitholders; NEP GP and its affiliates and the directors and officers of NEP are not restricted in their ability to compete with NEP, whose business is subject to certain restrictions; NEP may only terminate the Management Services Agreement among, NEP, NextEra Energy Management Partners, LP (NEE Management), NEP OpCo and NextEra Energy Operating Partners GP, LLC under certain limited circumstances; If the agreements with NEE Management or NEER are terminated, NEP may be unable to contract with a substitute service provider on similar terms; NEP's arrangements with NEE limit NEE's potential liability, and NEP has agreed to indemnify NEE against claims that it may face in connection with such arrangements, which may lead NEE to assume greater risks when making decisions relating to NEP than it otherwise would if acting solely for its own account; NEP's ability to make distributions to its unitholders depends on the ability of NEP OpCo to make cash distributions to its limited partners; If NEP incurs material tax liabilities, NEP's distributions to its unitholders may be reduced, without any corresponding reduction in the amount of the IDR fee; Holders of NEP's units may be subject to voting restrictions; NEP's partnership agreement replaces the fiduciary duties that NEP GP and NEP's directors and officers might have to holders of its common units with contractual standards governing their duties and the NYSE does not require a publicly traded limited partnership like NEP to comply with certain of its corporate governance requirements; NEP's partnership agreement restricts the remedies available to holders of NEP's common units for actions taken by NEP's directors or NEP GP that might otherwise constitute breaches of fiduciary duties; Certain of NEP's actions require the consent of NEP GP; Holders of NEP's common units currently cannot remove NEP GP without NEE's consent and provisions in NEP's partnership agreement may discourage or delay an acquisition of NEP that NEP unitholders may consider favorable; NEE's interest in NEP GP and the control of NEP GP may be transferred to a third party without unitholder consent; Reimbursements and fees owed to NEP GP and its affiliates for services provided to NEP or on NEP's behalf will reduce cash distributions from NEP OpCo and from NEP to NEP's unitholders, and there are no limits on the amount that NEP OpCo may be required to pay; Increases in interest rates could adversely impact the price of NEP's common units, NEP's ability to issue equity or incur debt for acquisitions or other purposes and NEP's ability to make cash distributions to its unitholders; The liability of holders of NEP's units, which represent limited partnership interests in NEP, may not be limited if a court finds that unitholder action constitutes control of NEP's business; Unitholders may have liability to repay distributions that were wrongfully distributed to them; The issuance of common units, or other limited partnership interests, or securities convertible into, or settleable with, common units, and any subsequent conversion or settlement, will dilute common unitholders' ownership in NEP, may decrease the amount of cash available for distribution for each common unit, will impact the relative voting strength of outstanding NEP common units and issuance of such securities, or the possibility of issuance of such securities, as well as the resale, or possible resale following conversion or settlement, may result in a decline in the market price for NEP's common units; NEP's future tax liability may be greater than expected if NEP does not generate net operating losses (NOLs) sufficient to offset taxable income or if tax authorities challenge certain of NEP's tax positions; NEP's ability to use NOLs to offset future income may be limited; NEP will not have complete control over NEP's tax decisions; and, Distributions to unitholders may be taxable as dividends. NEP discusses these and other risks and uncertainties in its annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, and this news release should be read in conjunction with such SEC filings made through the date of this news release. The forward-looking statements made in this news release are made only as of the date of this news release and NEP undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

SOURCE NextEra Energy, Inc.; NextEra Energy Partners, LP
ABUJA, Nigeria, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Nigerian Government designed the Energy Transition Plan to tackle the dual crises of energy poverty and climate change and reach net-zero status by 2060, while also providing energy for development, industrialization, and economic growth.

Nigerian Private Sector actors in an interactive session on opportunities and challenges in Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan Nigeria-ETP Logo

To deliver net-zero target by 2060, Nigeria requires ~$410 billion above business-as-usual spending (between 2021 - 2060); $150 billion net spend on generation capacity, $135 billion on transmission and distribution infrastructure, $79 billion on cooking, $21 billion on industry, $12 billion on transport and $12 billion on oil and gas decarbonisation. Nigeria's Energy Transition Office has identified an initial $23 billion investment opportunity across a portfolio of projects, out of which ~$17 billion is estimated as funding required through the private sector, across generation, transmission, distribution, metering, gas commercialization, clean cooking, e-mobility, and healthcare.

To help consolidate efforts towards energy transition, a private sector-focused roundtable was convened in Lagos on Friday, February 17th, 2023. The meeting discussed the role of the organized private sector in the country's Energy Transition Plan, and how to chart a path forward.

Organised by the Energy Transition Office who are funded by Sustainable Energy for ALL (SEforALL) and Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, the meeting brought together stakeholders from the private sector and government to discuss the challenges and opportunities available in Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan. With the help of private sector actors, the group will work to develop an implementation framework that will enable Nigeria achieve the financing objectives of the ETP.

Lanre Shasore, SSA to the President on Planning and Coordination, set the pace for the meeting by giving a brief history of the Energy Transition Plan. This was followed by the welcome remarks from Dr. Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq, Head/Principal Finance Specialist at the Energy Transition Office. He highlighted that the ETP lays out a comprehensive roadmap for Nigeria's energy transition, and emphasized the need for private sector engagement in the form of co-creation and alignment to raise the funds required to achieve the country's net zero goal by 2060. This crucial role he believes, will help the government overcome bottlenecks and mobilize the necessary resources.

Various players from the energy, finance and legal sectors participated in the meeting, as well as other experts who shared their insights and experiences on the challenges and opportunities presented by the energy transition. Speakers and attendees included Ahmad Salihijo, MD of Rural Electrification Agency, Chinua Azubike, CEO of Infracredit, Victor Adamu, TA to the President on Infrastructure, Hakeem Shagaya of Sun Africa, Nana Maidugu, Head of ESG at Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, Sola Carrena of Helios Investment, Tunde Gbajumo (Chief of Party, Power Africa), Banjo Alimi, Ayo Falola and Seyi Okunnuga of Sterling Bank, Dr. Uzo Egbuche of Climate Finance Accelerator, Muhammad Wakil of GEAPP, Joshua Adedeji of Innovate UK-KTN and Yemisi Awonuga, Partner at Templars Law, among other key stakeholders. Throughout the meeting, these speakers highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as the need to leverage innovative financing mechanisms to mobilize investment that will help drive energy transition in Nigeria.

The interactive session on Investment Opportunities in the Nigerian Energy Transition Plan featured at the roundtable. The session was moderated by Tariye Gbadegesin, CEO, ARM-Harith Infrastructure Fund. Tariye guided the participants in approaching the Energy Transition agenda from a bottom-up perspective, focusing on sectorial themes such as power, transport, gas transition, manufacturing, and transmission.

As part of the discourse, participants highlighted the need for innovative financing models and the role of public-private partnerships in recognising value chains across verticals. In line with this commitment, a private sector working group was formed to support energy transition in the country. The group, which will leverage its expertise and network, will help mobilise funds and promote innovative financing models that can accelerate the adoption of renewable energy technologies.

After considerable deliberations and constructive dialogue, Somkele Awa-Kalu emphasized the ETO's openness to collaboration, which was also echoed by Dr. Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq, Head of the ETO. Dr. Umar-Sadiq recommended that the Private Sector Working Group meet virtually on a monthly basis and hold physical meetings quarterly.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2007953/Sustainable_Energy_for_All_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2010594/Nigeria_ETP_Logo.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2010336/Energy_Transition.jpg

SOURCE Energy Transition Office, Nigeria
MACAU, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Macau-based company "Outer Brian Brand and Marketing" (OBBM) has launched a one-stop brand marketing service specifically for overseas businesses, which combines brand consulting, visual design, commercial space construction, new media promotion and implementation. It aims to activate the market after the epidemic and help business to recover quickly. The company was founded by a group of senior brand marketing professionals from Guangdong and overseas, with more than a decade of successful bilateral brand practical experience, to help businesses to improve their brand awareness, increase their customer base, boost their revenue and achieve faster growth.

Accompanying services, to help overseas enterprises recover quickly after the epidemic

After the epidemic, many overseas companies hope to develop new markets in mainland China, so they eager to promote their brands and businesses more effectively and accurately in mainland China. The biggest difference between OBBM and other brand service companies is that it has established companies in both Hong Kong and Macau, and its founding team has spent many years in investigating the pain points and finding the opportunities of the bilateral market. Therefore, it can summarize the fastest, most effective and suitable promotion plan and development paths for overseas companies to enter the mainland market. It also provides comprehensive services for them, including precise and effective landing guidance, policy services, legal support, brand strategy, marketing content and strategy, social media promotion, and more. In addition, the company also provides a full range accompanying running service for overseas companies to establish their business in the mainland China and provide real support.

Leverage the team's successful experience and local resources to develop business quickly and effectively

Overseas businesses, who wish to enter the Chinese market through OBBM, can leverage on the core team's brand marketing experience in the world's top 500, large bilateral enterprises in the Greater Bay Area, as well as their successful brand promotion experience on various platforms in the mainland market, such as Xiaohongshu, Douyin, Dianping, Baidu, and Zhihu. Through one-to-one exclusive brand consulting services, they provide tailor-made brand strategy plans like "private doctors" for enterprises, which enable companies to have a deeper understanding of the brand promotion strategy, effective channels, investment costs, and effectiveness cycle, and help them have a more comprehensive and realistic grasp for their brand expansion plans in the mainland market. In addition, the company provides overseas business with full course accompanying services to enter the mainland market, providing real support for overseas enterprises to establish business in mainland market.

A systematic working mode can provide a cost-effective result

In the view of the OBBM, brand building is a systematic project that requires a decision tree mindset and a one-way flow. If the previous step is wrong, everything that follows will also be wrong. Therefore, no matter if the enterprise strategy, brand design, marketing promotion, product planning, advertising design, or space design, the core is actually the same thing. It should be done by a team in a systematic manner, getting it right at a time and doing it well, so that strategies and content can be accurately disseminated to the society.

OBBM truly understands that brands play a very important role in today's fiercely competitive market environment, and upgrading the brand is the key to continuous development for enterprises. As a company dedicated to brand planning and design services, OBBM has always upheld the service philosophy of "let good products speak for themselves, let good brands increase in value on their own, let good customers find you on their own, and let good stores transact on their own." Therefore, at OBBM, they provide full-service solutions to help companies carry out re-plan, re-design and re-promote their brands from the beginning. This does not only help traditional brands to re-examine and analyze their strengths and weaknesses, but also enable them to find their own positioning and competitive advantage in the market. Furthermore, it helps them to better adapt to market changes and consumer needs, redefine brand image, culture and product positioning, and thereby enhance brand appeal and market competitiveness.

In Addition, OBBM can help traditional brands to expand new market space and business opportunities, increase the brand influence and market share and achieve sustainable brand development.

The founders of the OBBM, Yojee, said that because she has experienced each step of how overseas people and companies entering the mainland market. She hopes to share her experience with the other overseas companies, so that they can avoid unnecessary detours. The launch of this service aims to provide comprehensive, one-stop solutions for enterprises. She expressed her excitement about launching this service in Hong Kong and Macau. She believes that local businesses in overseas have enormous commercial potential, but they require new thinking and methods to fully utilize their potential. OBBM will be committed in providing the best service to its clients and help them achieve their business objectives.

If you are interested in the services provided by the company or would like to learn more, please visit their website or contact them directly.

About OBBM

OBBM is a brand planning company with Hong Kong and Macau genes. It serves as the external brain of businesses to help them break out of internal thinking and solve brand problems. Its goal is to achieve success for its clients and become their brand partner, assist them in reaching new heights and creating irreplaceable value.

Contact

Website: https://www.obbm.net/

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +853-6889 6542 (Macau)

+852-6659 6971 (Hong Kong)

+86-191 6889 6542 (Mainland)

SOURCE Outer Brain Brand Marketing and Design Company Limited.
The restaurant chain is reigniting their partnership with Organic and launching new ingredient driven work aimed at attracting a younger audience

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Organic, a digital-first agency under Omnicom will become the agency of record for restaurant chain, El Pollo Loco. Raised in the heart of Los Angeles, El Pollo Loco is the nation's leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant with a mission to bring people together around food, family and culture in the communities it serves. Since 1980, El Pollo Loco has successfully opened and maintained more than 490 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, Utah, Colorado and Louisiana while remaining true to its Mexican-American heritage.

Organic was selected as Brand and Digital AOR (Lead Agency) after a competitive review including 8 agencies. Organic is replacing Vitro, El Pollo Loco's previous Creative AOR, Organic was El Pollo Loco Digital's AOR from 2020 to 2021. Organic is partnering with THIRD EAR for rich audience insights and integration with its strategy and creative teams.

The first assignment, a celebration of "sabor" which means "flavor" in Spanish, broke on digital on February 23, 2023 and on broadcast on February 27, 2023. Organic will help El Pollo Loco transform its brand in a consumer-first, culturally relevant and digitally forward way to recruit new, younger consumers and drive the future of its business. Organic's work will differentiate the brand from the cluttered QSR space by leaning into El Pollo Loco's origin story, authentic recipes and human connections made over its food.

"Organic provided a comprehensive approach that allowed us to stay in touch with our core customer base and provide an exciting on-ramp to the customers we are looking to attract in the future," said Andy Rebhun, chief marketing officer, El Pollo Loco. "Organic's ability to utilize data and insights to drive the strategic approach to the business was one of its strengths. Their team will help us show up in a way that is refreshed for current markets and transformational in the markets we are expanding to in the future."

"Having roots in digital advertising means that we bring a nimbleness and cross-functional approach to culturally-integrated, full funnel creative assignments," said Cathy Butler, chief executive officer, Organic. "El Pollo Loco is a brand that wasn't built in a boardroom - it is rooted in a place, people and culture. We want our work to celebrate that, and to help forge connections with new audiences who are craving flavorful and authentic food. Our iterative creative approach is a perfect fit for this type of high-volume assignment."

Organic will debut their first work back with the brand this month. The campaign " Sabor " will launch their limited time menu item, Double Tostadas. The new campaign is all about the "flavor of life" and "flavor of food." The first executions will highlight how the Double Chicken Tostada and Double Shredded Beef Tostada is different from traditional and unsatisfying salads. It's an ingredient story told through vibrant music and food.

The campaign will run across regional broadcast TV, digital, social, in-store/POP, email/CRM and with influencers with a media spend of roughly ~$32MM. The campaign will play in California, Colorado, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Texas and Louisiana.

About Organic, Inc.

Organic designs resilient brands for clients seeking a modern marketing approach for their businesses. Organic's two-decade heritage designing digital customer experiences and brand ecosystems is the foundation of the agency's unique lead-agency approach. Organic is part of the Omnicom Precision Marketing Group (OPMG), and Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC). www.organic.com .

About Omnicom Precision Marketing Group

Omnicom Precision Marketing Group aligns Omnicom's global digital, data and CRM capabilities to deliver precisely targeted and meaningful customer experiences at scale. Using its universal framework of connected data, connected intelligence and connected experiences, OPMG provides services that include digital experience design and development, technology strategy and implementation, data-driven product / service design, CRM / loyalty strategy and activation, econometric and attribution modeling, technical and business consulting and change / program-management services. At the core of delivering these services is Omni, an advanced technology platform that combines advanced AI tools for content intelligence and automation with a powerful cultural insights engine and massively scaled data insights from first-, second- and third-party sources, including several proprietary Omnicom data partnerships.

Omnicom Precision Marketing Group is part of the DAS Group of Companies, a division of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com), that includes more than 200 companies in a wide range of marketing disciplines including advertising, public relations, healthcare, customer relationship management, events, promotional marketing, branding and research.

About THIRD EAR

THIRD EAR is a Listen First, minority-certified enterprise and a member of The Advertising Collective, part of Omnicom Group, Inc. (OMC:NYSE.) The agency's work Speaks Human to truly connect with people. Headquartered in Austin, TX, THIRD EAR, formerly known as LatinWorks, approaches marketing using multicultural filters and delivers clients a full suite of services, ranging from strategy and creative, to media planning and investment. www.wearethirdear.c om.

SOURCE Organic
Early-stage fund to identify and support the development of innovative solutions created by the premiere musculoskeletal surgeon group at Hospital for Special Surgery

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- OrthoVentions LLC and the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) today announced they have entered into an agreement to support the development of technologies crafted by the premiere musculoskeletal surgeon group. The dedicated fund managed by OrthoVentions principals will be tasked to steward the innovative technologies developed by HSS surgeons and create individual early-stage companies focused on bringing the respective inventions to market.

"We are pleased to announce this partnership between HSS and OrthoVentions designed to promote the innovative potential resident within our best-in-class musculoskeletal surgeons", said newly appointed President and Surgeon-in-Chief and next CEO of HSS Dr. Bryan Kelly. "Innovation and the development of clinically compelling solutions has been a central feature of HSS and this partnership with OrthoVentions provides our surgeons an additional opportunity for them to unlock the potential of their inventions"

OrthoVentions to support early-stage funding of selected innovation developed by HSS surgeons. Tweet this

Under the terms of the agreement, the management of OrthoVentions will conduct a competitive process to select technologies developed by surgeons at HSS. Technologies identified for funding will be structured as stand-alone subsidiaries of OrthoVentions LLC with the goal of utilizing the funds to complete product development and achieve the appropriate regulatory approval and limited market release. The selection process will focus on those technologies addressing unmet clinical needs that also provide compelling innovation that is distinguished in the marketplace.

Jagi Gill, Founder and Managing Director of OrthoVentions, said "One of the central pillars contributing to the exemplary reputation of HSS is its commitment to driving innovation in healthcare. We are excited to be partnering with the surgeons at HSS to leverage their unique technologies and couple them with financial and operational resources experienced in bringing products to market. Our dedicated fund offers a unique opportunity to fund breakthrough early-stage medical innovation.

About OrthoVentions:

OrthoVentions LLC is a dedicated health-care fund collaborating with the Hospital for Special Surgery to identify and develop novel technologies developed by their premiere musculoskeletal surgeons. The principals at OrthoVentions bring a strong track record as founders and operators of medical technologies companies with a rich experience in developing and commercializing compelling healthcare solutions. (www.orthoventions.com)

Contact:

Rom Papadopoulos MD

Chief Financial Officer

OrthoVentions LLC

[email protected]

SOURCE OrthoVentions LLC
65% of U.S. parents believe their children face barriers to ideal pathways after graduation

MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Paper, the leading Educational Support System (ESS), today announced that it has acquired MajorClarity, a best-in-class Career & College Readiness (CCR) tool. Together, the companies will offer a comprehensive CCR platform that will support all students, regardless of their preferred path after high school.

Today, most high schools and CCR programs are focused primarily on college preparation, despite the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting that in 2021, only 61% of high school graduates enrolled in collegea 20-year low for college enrollment.

MajorClarity by Paper is a comprehensive College & Career Readiness platform for K-12 students. (CNW Group/Paper)

These reports indicate that a growing number of high school graduates are enrolling in Career and Technical Education (CTE) or trade schools, enlisting in the military, or going directly into the workforce. However, these students have fewer career readiness tools at their disposal than their counterparts who plan on attending college.

According to a Gallup report, nearly half (45%) of U.S. parents want more non-college paths for their high school students. About two-thirds of parents (65%) say their student faces barriers to their ideal pathway post-graduation. Those barriers included "a lack of finances, information or availability, as well as more systemic challenges, including the preparation provided by their child's school."

"85% of the jobs that will be needed in 2030 didn't exist in 2018," said Philip Cutler, Paper co-founder and CEO. "It is critical that we develop better ways to connect students to career opportunities that meet their personalized interests, strengths, and ambitions."

Unfortunately, most districts don't have the resources to provide meaningful academic planning for all students, and school counselors often struggle to support non-college pathways. MajorClarity by Paper provides the necessary support for all students, regardless of their path after graduation. The new combined CCR platform includes customized academic pathways, career exploration tools, workforce micro-credentialing, a resume builder, and a cover letter review tool. For students attending college, there is a college essay review tool, a college application management, and a scholarship search.

"Career exploration not only gives purpose and meaning to academicsit's also the key to building the professional skills every student needs, regardless of their career goals," said Joe Besterling, CEO of MajorClarity by Paper. " And in a world with rising student debt and changing workforce needs, rethinking career readiness is more imperative than ever."

"Paper and MajorClarity are both companies focused on academic success for all students. Bringing career readiness and academic support together in one place means students have the tools to discover the "why" behind their educationthen get the learning support they need to accomplish their goals," Belstering added.

The launch of MajorClarity by Paper is a part of the company's rapidly expanding Educational Support System. Earlier this month, Paper announced a new suite of learning tools that includes products addressing math skills, literacy, after-school programming, and college and career readiness. Those offerings, plus on-demand virtual tutoring and writing review, are currently available to over three million students nationwide.

"Recent trends highlight the decreasing number of students attending two- or four-year colleges. This creates a two-fold challenge for educators. We need to better support students who elect alternative paths after graduation while also increasing the number of students who continue their academic journey through post-secondary education," Cutler concluded.

About Paper

Mission-driven educators founded Paper to help all students reach their full potential and gain confidence in life. Paper provides an unlimited, on-demand Educational Support System (ESS) that includes 1:1 virtual tutoring; a Review Center for writing assignments; MajorClairty College & Career Support; Paper Missions, a gamified math skills tool; and PaperLive, a streaming service featuring interactive after-school programming. Paper's highly qualified educators provide an instructional framework emphasizing inquiry-based learning to empower students to pursue lifelong learning and prepare for college and career success. Paper's multilingual academic support is available in English, Spanish, French, and Mandarin. Paper supports over three million students at over 300 unique school districts in more than 40 U.S. states and Canada. Paper employs more than 2000 educators and tutors nationwide. Learn more or request a demo at paper.co .

SOURCE Paper
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Nokia announced plans to change its brand identity for the first time in nearly 60 years, complete with a new logo, as the telecom equipment maker focuses on aggressive growth, Reuters reports.

The new logo comprises five different shapes forming the word NOKIA. The iconic blue color of the old logo has been dropped for a range of colors depending on the use.

"There was the association to smartphones and nowadays we are a business technology company," Chief Executive Pekka Lundmark told Reuters in an interview.

After taking over the top job at the struggling Finnish company in 2020, Lundmark set out a strategy with three stages: reset, accelerate and scale. With the reset stage now complete, Lundmark said the second stage is beginning.

While Nokia still aims to grow its service provider business, where it sells equipment to telecom companies, its main focus is now to sell gear to other businesses.

"We had very good 21% growth last year in enterprise, which is currently about 8% of our sales, (or) 2 billion euros ($2.11 billion) roughly," Lundmark told Reuters. "We want to take that to double digits as quickly as possible."

Major technology firms have been partnering with telecom gear makers such as Nokia to sell private 5G networks and gears for automated factories to customers, mostly in the manufacturing sector. Nokia plans to review the growth path of its different businesses and consider alternatives, including divestment.

"The signal is very clear. We only want to be in businesses where we can see global leadership," Lundmark said.

Nokia's move toward factory automation and datacentres will also see them locking horns with big tech companies, such as Microsoft and Amazon, according to Reuters.
SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PiQuant - Co., Ltd. (CEO: Doyeon Pi), a spectroscopy-based environmental IoT company, has won the CES 2023 Innovation Award from the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) of America.

CES (or the Consumer Electronics Show) is the world's largest international electronics fair that is held annually in Las Vegas, USA, with more than 2,400 companies from 174 countries participating this year. It is a technological exhibition where companies and institutions from various industries showcase the latest IoT and ICT technologies, attracting attention and expectations from major companies around the world.

At this year's event, PiQuant's water quality analyzer "Water Scanner" won the award as the first portable spectrometer to do real-time analysis of the water components. It is an innovative device that can detect hazardous substances like bacteria, heavy metals, and chemical compounds in liquid in real time.

The Water Scanner reduced the test time by 1/1,440th compared to conventional PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), a method of multiplying and confirming specific genes such as bacteria and viruses. On top of that, the cost of testing was reduced to 1/50th. As a water bacteria scanner, the Water Scanner can monitor and manage data in real time whilst connected to a smartphone.

Meanwhile, PiQuant's other product, AirQuant, is in high demand in homes, schools, public institutions, and large shopping malls as an IoT indoor air quality monitoring system that measures fine dust and harmful gasses in real time.

Founded in 2015, making its way in the development and manufacture of various products based on component detection technology using light, PiQuant is the first company in Korea supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, as it specializes in the analysis of the drinking water environment in developing countries.

E. coli (or Escherichia coli) is the major cause of waterborne diseases associated with unsafe drinking water. Using PiQuant's portable bacteria water scanner, the detection of E. Coli bacteria can be done within 3 minutes. PiQuant is introducing its products to several developing countries suffering from water pollution, including India and Vietnam.

As a company specializing in spectroscopy-based solutions, PiQuant will be participating in the Mobile World Congress (MWC) held in Barcelona, Spain from February 27th to March 2nd. It was previously selected as one of the outstanding companies in the 4YFN IoT field at the 2017 MWC.

To find out more about PiQuant, visit http://www.piquant.asia .

SOURCE PiQuant
NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Platinum Mining Market Analysis including Reserves, Production, Operating, Developing and Exploration Assets, Demand Drivers, Key Players and Forecasts, 2021-2026

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06424465/?utm_source=PRN

Summary

"Platinum Mining Market Analysis including Reserves, Production, Operating, Developing and Exploration Assets, Demand Drivers, Key Players and Forecasts, 2021-2026" provides a comprehensive coverage on the global platinum industry. It provides historical and forecast data on platinum production by country, production by company, consumption, reserves by country, world platinum prices and platinum trade. The report also includes a demand drivers section providing information on factors that are affecting the global platinum industry. It further profiles major platinum producers, information on the major active, planned and exploration projects by region.

Global platinum production declined by 5.7% to 5.8 million ounces (Moz) in 2022. South Africa was the major contributor to global platinum production decline in 2022, followed by the US. Combined output from these two countries fell from 4.7Moz in 2021 to 4.4Moz in 2022. However, this was partially offset by increases in production from Russia, Zimbabwe, and Canada, where total production rose from 1,295.9koz in 2021 to 1,317.3koz in 2022.

Scope

- The report contains an overview of the global platinum mining industry including key demand driving factors affecting the global platinum mining industry. It provides detailed information on reserves, reserves by country, production, production by country, production by company, major operating mines, competitive landscape, major exploration and development projects.

Reasons to Buy

- To gain an understanding of the global platinum mining industry, relevant driving factors

- To understand historical and forecast trend on global platinum production

- To identify key players in the global platinum mining industry

- To identify major active, exploration and development projects by region

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06424465/?utm_source=PRN

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.

__________________________

Contact Clare: [email protected]

US: (339)-368-6001

Intl: +1 339-368-6001

SOURCE Reportlinker
Faye Godfrey Joins as New Leader, Bringing Years of Digital Marketing Experience to the PR Newswire team

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MultiVu, the premium brand within PR Newswire, announced today the expansion of many of its content service solutions, including newly developed digital offerings like Social Video, a more robust suite of Multichannel News Release options, and enhanced Webcasting capabilities, alongside existing full-service end-to-end video production and distribution solutions. The revitalization of its product offerings reflects the company's ongoing commitment to elevate the client experience by creating products and solutions that address clients' most pressing needs.

MultiVu Sizzle Reel

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9142851-pr-newswire-brand-multivu-expands-digital-solutions-adds-additional-expertise-with-new-hires/

PR Newswire's Content Services Team continues to build on its tremendous strength and expertise in the market, and is able to leverage vast in-house communications, intelligence and distribution resources that are unmatched in the market. Clients within the PR Newswire ecosystem have endless possibilities for helping brands tell their story and bringing that to life by delivering it to diverse audiences across multiple platforms with precision, ingenuity, and, most importantly, reportable results. At the core, the team's role is to help all clients amplify their stories through execution within paid, earned, shared, and owned media.

"The benefit to clients is enormous," said Faye Godfrey, who recently joined as VP of Content Services, bringing years of digital marketing and leadership experience to the team. "We are truly the secret weapon of PR Newswire  a differentiating division giving clients a place to act on the research and information they've gleaned. As the Content Services team, we're able to leverage our storytelling capabilities, media strategy and digital solutions for our global roster of clients, giving them access to all the elements they need for modern communications under one roof."

As an integral part of PR Newswire's strategic vision, the company has made investments in MultiVu's people, processes, and solutions with Godfrey at the helm.

"MultiVu has been an industry leader for more than 20 years," said Nicole Guillot, Cision's Chief Operating Officer and President of PR Newswire. "The addition of Faye, alongside fresh, new talent acquisitions on our production and sales teams, has forged an unbeatable combination of seasoned experts and contemporary specialists, allowing us to deliver unparalleled client service and better project outcomes."

Godfrey's background in digital marketing and product development has been a driving force behind many of the company's enhanced offerings, including greater expansion into the APAC and EMEIA markets. Based in London, Godfrey aims to deepen PR Newswire's global client base by offering more comprehensive solutions for international clients.

"The opportunity for international growth is extensive," said Godfrey. "Cision has 35 offices spanning 18 countries, so the measure of what we can do is endless, and we're just getting started."

Along with advancements in digital products and international expansion, the team continues to enhance its more traditional services, like Satellite and Virtual Media Tours. The company recently introduced the Media Tour Hub - a landing page to host Media Tour assets in an easy-to-share format that's included with every Satellite Media Tour. This microsite includes distribution to Cision's most comprehensive national newsline, and through Cision's exclusive broadcast partnerships, delivers 200+ placements on local TV websites from coast to coast, creating even more exposure and reach beyond the media tour. Exclusive to MultiVu, the Media Tour Hub is the latest innovation in the media tour landscape, providing added value for clients looking to take their Satellite or Virtual Media Tours to the next level.

"As a company, we're constantly seeking ways to drive the business forward with new products and services while staying connected to our core identity and expertise in traditional media," said Alison Welz, Executive Director of Strategy. "Satellite and Virtual Media Tours are one of the mainstays of our business, so we'll continue to develop and re-invent these and all of our services to stay at the forefront of our industry."

About MultiVu

MultiVu is the Content Services division of PR Newswire, focusing on data-driven media strategy, bold content creation and targeted distribution for a global roster of clients. At our core, we're storytellers, bringing our clients' messaging to life, and delivering it to diverse audiences across multiple platforms. Our role is to help all clients amplify their stories through immediate and strategic execution within paid, earned, shared, and owned media. We offer full-service end-to-end solutions, from broadcast production to live and virtual events to digital and social solutions, catering to all client needs in the most strategic and effective way possible. Visit www.MultiVu.com to learn more.

About Cision

Cision is a comprehensive consumer & media intelligence and communications platform enabling public relations, marketing and communications professionals around the world to understand, influence and amplify their stories. As the market leader, Cision enables the next generation of leaders to strategically operate in the modern media landscape where company success is directly impacted by public opinion. Cision has offices in 24 countries through the Americas, EMEA and APAC, and offers a suite of best-in-class solutions, including PR Newswire, Cision Communications Cloud, Cision Insights and Brandwatch. To learn more, visit www.cision.com and follow @Cision on Twitter.

SOURCE MultiVu
ROATAN, Honduras, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prospera and Infinita VC will host the second Builders' Summit for 2023. The "Decentralizing Finance Summit" will take place in Prospera's flagship city on Roatan May 5-7.

The Prospera Builders' Summits attract changemakers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in building new solutions and companies for the modern era.

Prospera and Infinita VC will host the "Decentralizing Finance Summit" in Prospera's flagship city on Roatan May 5-7. Tweet this

The Summit focuses on topics at the cutting edge of innovation like Bitcoin, digital assets, and the tokenization of the world.

The choice of domicile and jurisdiction is increasingly becoming an important enabler for the crypto industry, with US regulators being slow to offer clear guidance. Prospera's special jurisdiction essentially recognizes cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins as legal tender and aims to have the highest adoption rate for crypto of any city in the world.

Prospera's pro-business framework and system of regulatory choice facilitates the types of innovation necessary to further decentralize the global financial system. The summit invites thinkers and entrepreneurs to charter this path. Hondurans are especially encouraged to attend.

Speakers include Patri Friedman, Tom W. Bell and Jose Luis Moncada..

A key summit event is the pitch competition on the last day, where attendees propose startup ideas or policy proposals to a jury of investors.

VCs besides Infinita who've confirmed their attendance are Invariantes, Morph Capital and Pronomos VC.

"Prospera is a perfect jurisdiction for digital assets such as banking, insurance and crypto - you can get started with a license in months where it takes years elsewhere," says Niklas Anzinger from Infinita VC.

"The next wave of fast-growing fintech companies is already coming from Latin America, such as Nubank and Bitso. With Prospera, Hondurans can build the financial ecosystem of the future."

About Infinita VC: Infinita is an early stage venture capital fund based in Prospera, investing in founders overcoming regulatory and doing-business obstacles through better legal systems. Infinita invested in biotechnology, hardware/robotics and fintech/crypto startups from Latin America and the US. Infinita was founded during the first "Build Prospera Summit" in April 2022, by former startup operator and entrepreneur from Germany, Niklas Anzinger.

About Prospera: Prospera is a governance platform that powers the development of new cities in special economic zones. Prospera's pro-business framework and system of regulatory choice ensures that companies can operate under the most favorable regulatory conditions in the world. This platform empowers individuals and companies, leading to significant economic growth for businesses, residents and host nations.

SOURCE Prospera
CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Quaker Houghton (NYSE: KWR) today announced that Jeffrey L. Fleck has joined the Company as Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer effective February 27, 2023. Mr. Fleck is responsible for leading the global end-to-end supply chain organization.

Andy Tometich, Chief Executive Officer and President stated: "I am pleased to welcome Jeff to Quaker Houghton. He brings extensive leadership capabilities and supply chain expertise to optimize and strengthen our global footprint, operations and processes and further enable the Company to execute on our long-term growth strategy."

Prior to joining Quaker Houghton, Mr. Fleck most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer for Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products Company from 2016 to 2023. From 2010 to 2015, Mr. Fleck was Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain and R&D Officer at Zep, Inc. Prior, he also held various supply chain management leadership positions at The Clorox Company, American Home Products, and Cargill Incorporated.

About Quaker Houghton:

Quaker Houghton is the global leader in industrial process fluids. With a presence around the world, including operations in over 25 countries, our customers include thousands of the world's most advanced and specialized steel, aluminum, automotive, aerospace, offshore, container, mining, and metalworking companies. Our high-performing, innovative and sustainable solutions are backed by best-in-class technology, deep process knowledge and customized services. With approximately 4,600 employees, including chemists, engineers and industry experts, we partner with our customers to improve their operations so they can run even more efficiently, even more effectively, whatever comes next. Quaker Houghton is headquartered in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, located near Philadelphia in the United States. Visit quakerhoughton.com to learn more.

SOURCE Quaker Houghton
Both organizations call on physicians to assist Veterans.

PENSACOLA, Fla. , Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Regenative Labs (Regenative), a leading HCT/P manufacturer, is partnering with Brothers in Arms Foundation (BIAF), a 5013 nonprofit providing logistical and financial support to wounded, ill, injured and fallen Marines, sailors, and the families of those who served. Together, both organizations are dedicated to giving back and improving the quality of life for those who have served our country.

Regenative will donate approximately $5 million dollars of its state-of-the-art Wharton's Jelly product, ProText, to BIAF which will facilitate the care of qualifying veterans. To bring this care to veterans, Regenative and BIAF need the help of physicians to apply the product.

Physicians across the country may join in supporting our veterans by making a qualified donation of their time under the Brothers in Arms Foundation 5013 non-profit.

"We're extremely proud of this partnership," shared Regenative Labs CEO, Tyler Barrett. "Ultimately our products are about improving patient quality of life. My grandfather served in the Marines in Korea, and so being able to serve those like him in unison with the mission of Brothers in Arms is important to me," Barrett concluded.

Regenative's Wharton's Jelly product is a structural connective tissue allograft intended for homologous use to replace or supplement missing or damaged tissue directly at the site of a structural defect. Some doctors have used the product for muscle and cartilage tears and to replace missing or damaged tissue due to wounds and tissue defects, instead of masking the underlying connective tissue issue.

Regenative has been tracking patient outcomes of applications of their product for over two years. Retrospectively, the results have shown improvements greater than 33 percent in patient reported WOMAC improvement.

It is Regenative's and BIAF's goal to provide veterans with the best quality of life possible.

"We're committed to bettering the quality of life for our veterans," said Brothers in Arms Foundation President, Phillip Noblin. "This new, innovative treatment will give them the hope and support needed to heal. The partnership with Regenative Labs will further our mission of serving those who've served us," said Noblin.

Physicians interested in taking care of qualified veterans by donating their services through a 5013 non-profit may visit: https://regenativelabs.com/biaf-physician-time-and-services-donation/

Veterans who wish to learn more, or to refer their physician today may visit: https://regenativelabs.com/biaf/

One can make a monetary donation through the BIAF.

About Regenative Labs: Regenative Labs produces regenerative medicine products to address the root cause of a patient's conditions using Wharton's Jelly innovations rather than masking the pain with other treatments. Regenative Labs works closely with scientists, physicians, hospitals, and surgery centers to constantly monitor and improve patient progress and outcomes for new product development. Formed by veteran industry professionals familiar with daily challenges of innovations in healthcare, the company provides non-addictive, non-invasive options for patients. Regenative Labs' expert product research and development team complies with FDA guidelines of minimal manipulation for homologous use. The company adheres to AATB and FDA guidelines. Learn more at Regenative's website: www.regenativelabs.com

About Brothers in Arms Foundation: Brothers in Arms Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit founded in 2009 that exists to provide financial and logistical support to wounded, ill, injured and fallen Marines, sailors, and the families of those who served within the Marines Special Operations community. Over the years, the foundation has supported active-duty Marines, sailors, veterans and military families with programs and services ranging from financial assistance, funding vocational and quality of life initiatives, as well as funeral support and childcare. Learn more at: https://www.brothersinarmsfoundation.org

SOURCE Regenative Labs
The short-form podcast series from REMAX co-founder Dave Liniger is set to launch February 27 on all major streaming platforms.

DENVER, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dave Liniger, the trailblazing co-founder and visionary leader of the Denver-based global real estate franchise RE/MAX, today announced the launch of his 13-part podcast series, "Ambition & Grit," which premieres February 27 during R4, the annual RE/MAX conference, which will be held in Las Vegas, NV.

Ambition and Grit

"Ambition & Grit" contains six solo episodes and seven interviews led by Liniger, each recounting stories of those who have overcome challenges, pushed past their own limits, and experienced the best life has to offer. The short-form podcast series is jam-packed with secrets of success from Liniger's celebrated career than spans over half a century.

The first episode features former U.S. Marine Corps officer Vernice "FlyGirl" Armour, the first African-American female naval aviator and first female combat aviator in the Marine Corps. Subsequent episodes, to be released bi-weekly on Wednesdays include:

"How to Avoid Failing in the First 5 Years of Your Business," March 15

"Interview: Joan Lunden ," March 29

," "Overcoming Challenging Times in Business," April 12

"Interview: John Hennessey ," April 26

," "How to Improve Your Productivity," May 10

"Interview: Mike Kelly ," May 24

," "Women in Leadership," June 7

"Interview: Misty Lown ," June 21

," "Building a Team," July 5

"Interview: Adam Contos ," July 19

," "How to Stay One Step Ahead of Your Competition," August 2

"Interview: J.R. Martinez," August 16

"Nothing great in life comes easy," says Liniger. "If you want wild success, exciting adventures, and untold fortunes, you're going to need a little ambition and grit to get you there. Through my own personal insights, and those of the successful guests I interview, this podcast acts as a spark to those interested in jumpstarting their lives and careers."

"Ambition & Grit" will be available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Play. For more information, visit www.ambitionandgrit.com.

About Dave Liniger

Dave Liniger is the co-founder of RE/MAX, the Denver-based global real estate franchise that he co-founded with his wife Gail in 1973. RE/MAX is the leading franchisor of real estate offices throughout the world and has expanded to over 8,000 offices in over 110 countries, with 140,000+ sales agents. Mr. Liniger is internationally renowned for his real estate and franchising expertise and is widely credited with improving conditions for real estate agents. Over the course of his career, Mr. Liniger has spoken to more than 3 million people in over 30 countries. He has been featured in Entrepreneur, Forbes, Fortune Inc., Success and other leading publications and media outlets across the globe. In 2010, he was included in Bloomberg Business Week's profiles of the 50 Most Powerful People in Real Estate, and in 2011, Dave was named the Inman News "People's Choice" Most Influential Real Estate Leader. He has received the Warren Bennis Award for Leadership Excellence from the Global Institute for Leadership Development. A serial entrepreneur, lifelong philanthropist, and avid sportsman, Dave continues to lead the RE/MAX network as Chairman of the Board after retiring as CEO in 2018.

Media Contact

Lisa Salazar, JConnelly

[email protected] or (973) 476-4229

SOURCE Dave Liniger
WILLEMSTAD, Curacao, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Retail Holdings N.V. (Symbol: RHDGF) -- Retail Holdings N.V. (the "Company") has given Notice that a meeting of the Shareholders of the Company will be held on March 31, 2023 (the "Meeting") to, among other purposes, approve the voluntary liquidation of the Company pursuant to the proposed terms and conditions as provided in the Proxy Statement, dated February 20, 2023 (the "Liquidation Proposal"). The Proxy Statement is being mailed to Shareholders on or about February 27, 2023 and is now also available on the Corporate/Investor section of the Company's website at www.retailholdings.com. February 21, 2023 is the Record Date for determining the Shareholders entitled to vote at the Meeting .

If the Liquidation Proposal is accepted by a majority of Shareholders attending the Meeting on March 31, 2023, Retail Holdings N.V. would be placed in liquidation, effective that date. The Company thereafter would be managed by the appointed Liquidator, whose principal objective is to complete the liquidation of the Company, including paying any valid requests for unclaimed distributions, as well as the Liquidator's and Company expenses. Any funds remaining in the cash balance of the Company in excess of these payments and projected requirements could be distributed at a future date to Shareholders of record on March 31, 2023, at a time and in an amount, if any, to be determined by the Liquidator. The Company may remain in liquidation for an extended period until the final wind-up.

Shareholders are encouraged to carefully review the Proxy Statement and vote their shares. The Company's Board of Directors unanimously recommends that Shareholders vote to adopt the Liquidation Proposal.

For additional information about the Company, the Company's summary financial statements as at December 31, 2022, and additional information regarding the contingent liability for unclaimed distributions, see the Company's 2022 Annual Report, dated January 2023, particularly Note 11 to the Financial Statements.

Assuming that the Liquidation Proposal is accepted, the Liquidator will assume control of all of the assets of the Company in liquidation as at March 31, 2023. The proposal includes the following specific instructions to the Liquidator:

To make a renewed effort to contact non-US shareholders with unclaimed

distributions.

distributions. To pay from the cash balance of the Company any valid requests from such shareholders for unclaimed distributions.

To not make any other distributions to shareholders at this time.

To, at the liquidator's discretion, at the time and in the amount, if any, determined by the liquidator, pay from the cash balance of the Company to the Company's current shareholders (with a record date of March 31, 2023 ), the amount, if any, that the liquidator believes is in excess of projected requirements to pay future, valid requests for unclaimed distributions and is

in excess of projected other cash requirements, including for the liquidator's ongoing expenses to ultimate wind-up.

The Liquidator will complete the liquidation and dissolve the Company when all of the requirements for liquidation pursuant to Curacao law and regulation have been satisfied.

Chairman's Comments

Commenting on the proposed voluntary liquidation, Stephen H. Goodman, the Company's Chairman, President, and CEO explained, "This is the final step in the liquidation process begun in 2015 in which the Company outlined a strategy to maximize and ultimately to monetize the value of its assets and to make distributions to Shareholders. Over the period since 2015, total distributions paid to Shareholders have totaled $38.86 per share.

"I wish to sincerely thank our shareholders, fellow directors, employees and other stakeholders for their support of me and the Company over the 23 years period since the emergence of the Company from a Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding in the United States."

For any questions you may contact Amy Pappas, Corporate Secretary, via email at [email protected] or via mail at P.O. Box 120, Mount Kisco, New York 10549.

SOURCE Retail Holdings N.V.
NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Science based skincare brand, ReVive, is setting out on a nationwide tour with longtime retail partner, Neiman Marcus. The pop-up series will educate consumers on the science behind the brand and how ReVive helps Give New Life to Skin with their signature Bio-Renewal Technology. At each pop-up, guests can enjoy three mini services for face, neck and eye to experience the brand's innovative formulas.

ReVive

In 1997, ReVive first launched their best-selling Moisturizing Renewal Cream with Neiman Marcus. Since then, the retailer and luxury skincare brand have partnered together to offer consumers a large assortment of luxury skincare products.

"While today, ReVive has several distribution partners globally, we look to Neiman Marcus to deliver exceptional in-store experiences and unique offerings. The Neiman Marcus and ReVive customer has an expectation of a high level of personalized service, product education and knowledge. We are thrilled to partner to bring ReVive's first-ever fully immersive experience complete with mini services, individualized consultations and brand and technology education, to our customer in some of our largest and long-standing regional locations  especially as Neiman Marcus was the first ReVive distribution partner," says ReVive CEO, Elana Drell Szyfer.

ReVive's brand roots are in helping people feel great about their skin. With expertise spanning across 25 years, ReVive has become synonymous with cutting-edge science, offering a collection of products across seven distinct collections  Renewal, Intensite, Fermitif, Perfectif, Superieur, Sensitif and Peau.

Each product has been scientifically formulated with Bio-Renewal Technology, inspired by proteins that naturally produced by the body. Use of these molecules are clinically proven to help reduce visible signs of aging and deliver fast results. With increased skin renewal and improved collagen and elastin, skin looks rejuvenated and revitalized. Skin acts younger and looks softer, smoother, and glowing while collagen breakdown is slowed, and brown spots are lightened.

The tour will kick off on February 27th at Neiman Marcus in Houston, Texas and will continue on through July in other key markets including Texas and California.

DATES

February 27 th  March 12 th ; Houston, TX

 ; March 20 th  April 2 nd ; Dallas, TX

 ; April 17 th  April 30 th ; Palo Alto, CA

 ; June 19 th  July 2 nd; Newport Beach, CA

ABOUT REVIVE

GIVE NEW LIFE TO SKIN

Founded in 1997, ReVive is a luxury skincare line developed by Dr. Gregory Bays Brown, a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. Each product has been scientifically formulated with Bio-Renewal Technology, inspired by patented and Nobel Prize Winning science used by Dr. Brown to heal burn victims. This technology is comprised of three key peptides and clinically proven to help reduce visible signs of aging and delivers fast results. With increased skin renewal and improved collagen and elastin, skin looks rejuvenated and revitalized and signs of aging are dramatically reduced. The appearance of wrinkles is minimized, skin density and elasticity are increased, collagen breakdown is slowed, and dark spots are lightened. Skin acts younger and looks soft, smooth, and glowing. ReVive can be found at reviveskincare.com, select specialty stores and luxury online retailers in the US and UK and other global markets such as Spain, Italy, China and more.

Website | Instagram | Twitter

SOURCE ReVive
Five-day public auction attracted 22,600+ bidders from 80+ countries competing for 13,300+ items

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Last week Ritchie Bros. sold 13,300+ equipment items, trucks, and vehicles at its Premier Global Auction in Orlando, FL, generating US$244+ million in gross transaction value.

Ritchie Bros. sells 13,300+ items for US$244+ million in its 2023 Premier Global Auction in Orlando, FL (CNW Group/Ritchie Bros.)

The February 20  24, 2023 auction attracted 22,600+ people from 80+ countries, with approximately 83% of the equipment selling to U.S. buyers, including 18% purchased by Floridians. The remaining 17% of the equipment was purchased by international buyers from far away as Belgium, Colombia, and Thailand. Auction highlights included 790+ excavators, 500+ truck tractors, 340+ skid steer loaders, 200+ dozers, and 240+ pickup trucksall assets were sold without minimum bids or reserve prices.

"We saw great attendance onsite and online for our Premier Global Auction in Florida, helping us drive strong results for the massive selection of equipment and vehicles available," said Ann Fandozzi, Chief Executive Officer, Ritchie Bros. "Our 200-acre yard was busy all week with customers inspecting items. Meanwhile, customers participating online had access to our new 360-view videos to help with virtual inspectionsthese were a real hit with customers, so you can expect to see more of these videos for equipment in our auctions going forward."

Ms. Fandozzi continued, "I'd like to offer a huge thank you to all our customers participating onsite and online last week. Our talented team, unique approach to yards, and innovative technology platform provides buyers the confidence to purchase from around the world and gives sellers the very best returns for their assets."

Customer Testimonials

More than 1,100 owners sold equipment in the Orlando, FL auction, including items from Miami-based Halley Engineering Contractors Inc. and Caterpillar dealer Ring Power Corporation.

"I've been working with Ritchie Bros. more than 40 years, selling and buying," said Ignacio Halley, owner of Halley Engineering Contractors Inc. "Over the years, I've seen this Orlando auction progress and grow to become the world's best equipment auction. Everything is professionally done and the equipment selection this year was outstanding."

"We were excited to be back for another great Ritchie Bros. Orlando auction, where we were able to connect with colleagues and customers both onsite at the sale and the numerous networking events. It's good to see that demand is still high and pricing remains strong," said Frank Streva, Senior Vice President, Ring Power Corporation. "Additionally, it was also a huge honor to see our Chairman & CEO Randy Ringhaver inducted in the new Ritchie Bros. Hall of Fame alongside industry giants like Dave Ritchie and Roland Russell. Thank you, Ritchie Bros. We always look forward to this premier event."

Ritchie Bros. Hall of Fame

This year in Orlando, Ritchie Bros. introduced its own Hall of Fame to recognize and thank some of the pioneers and innovators who have helped the used equipment industry move, build, and grow. Inductees for 2023 included Randy Ringhaver of Ring Power Corporation, Roland Russell of ELRUS Aggregate Systems, and Dave Ritchie of Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers. To learn more about the Hall of Fame and this year's inductees, visit ritchiebros.com/halloffame.

Five Big Sellers from Orlando:

2009 Manitowoc 999 Series 3 275-ton crawler crane  US$720,000

2019 Volvo A45G articulated dump truck  US$445,000

2013 Caterpillar D8T dozer  US$435,000

2019 Metso Lokotrack LT200 tracked cone crushing plant  US$400,000

2021 Hitachi ZX490LCH-6 hydraulic excavator  US$395,000

AUCTION QUICK FACTS: ORLANDO, FL ( FEBRUARY 2023 )

Gross Transaction Value: US$244+ million

US$244+ million Items Sold: 13,300+

13,300+ Bidders: 22,600+

22,600+ Consignors: 1,100+

Ritchie Bros. has more than 80,000 equipment items and trucks in its upcoming auctions and online marketplaces, including 5,000 items selling in a Rocky Mountain Regional Event on March 8 - 9, 4,400+ items selling in Fort Worth, TX on March 14  16, and close to 2,000 items selling in a Las Vegas auction that will be simulcast to Ritchie Bros.' booth at CONEXPO/CON-AGG (Booth W-43001 in the West Hall). For a complete list of upcoming auctions and events, including weekly IronPlanet auctions and Marketplace-E events, visit rbauction.com/auctions.

About Ritchie Bros .

Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a number of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offering live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with weekly featured auctions and providing the exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification; Marketplace-E, a controlled marketplace offering multiple price and timing options; Ritchie List, a self-serve listing service for North America; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales; and sector-specific solutions GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, and Ritchie Bros. Energy. The Company's suite of solutions also includes Ritchie Bros. Asset Solutions and Rouse Services LLC, which together provides a complete end-to-end asset management, data-driven intelligence and performance benchmarking system; SmartEquip, an innovative technology platform that supports customers' management of the equipment lifecycle and integrates parts procurement with both OEMs and dealers; plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com.

Photos and video for embedding in media stories are available at rbauction.com/media.

SOURCE Ritchie Bros.
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. The parliamentary committee on defense and security affairs approved a bill on ratifying an agreement between Armenia and Russia on information security signed earlier in April 2022.

The ratification will be debated at the plenary session of parliament.

First Deputy Minister of High Tech Industry Gevorg Mantashyan briefed the lawmakers at the committee hearing on the agreement.

He said that the agreement will expand partnership between Armenia and Russia in ensuring information security, including the exchange of information on threats and joint response, as well as the legislative framework.

The agreement highlights the coordination of countering threats to information security, exchange of information in the law enforcement sector and other areas of cooperation.
Public School Officials Look Forward to Bargaining After Historic Victory

RICHMOND, Va., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With 98 percent voting in favor of union representation, over 150 principals, assistant principals, directors, and other Richmond Public Schools (RPS) administrative staff have joined Teamsters Local 592. The workers are one of the first groups of public school principals in the Commonwealth of Virginia to unionize.

"I'd like to congratulate these hardworking men and women, who work tirelessly to ensure the success of our children and our community, on this historic and incredible achievement," said Jim Smith, Local 592 President. "I'd also like to thank Teamsters International Vice President At-Large and Local 822 President James Wright, as well as Teamsters Local 322 President Brian Peyton, who played a critical role in this successful organizing effort."

The Teamster organizing effort at RPS began in August of last year. The Richmond School Board became the first school district in Virginia to extend collective bargaining rights to its workers in December 2021. RPS teachers ratified their first collective bargaining agreement with the Richmond Education Association (REA) in December.

"We look forward to negotiating a collective bargaining agreement that gets us a seat at the table, a voice on the job, and a more active role in the decision-making process that impacts our careers," said the RPS Teamster Organizing Committee in a joint statement. "We're excited about partnering with parents, students, our REA brothers and sisters, the school board, and everyone else who will work with us in our mission to ensure the greatest possible level of success for our students and the school community."

Teamsters Local 592 serves drivers, warehouse staff, and a wide variety of other workers in both the private and public sector throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. For more information, go to local592.org/

Contact:

Matt McQuaid, (202) 624-6877

[email protected]

SOURCE Teamsters Local 592
Best Children's Service and Education Franchise for Third Year in a Row

CANTON, Mass., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- School of Rock , the leader in performance-based music education, has been named the Grand Champion of the 2023 Global Franchise Awards, the most prestigious Global Franchise award. This award is given to one winner who has distinguished themselves most in the franchising industry in the opinion of the judges. In addition, School of Rock once again solidified its position as the leading children's service and education franchise for the third consecutive year.

"Winning the Grand Champion title against such strong competition is a testament to the exceptional quality and success of our network," said Rob Price, CEO of School of Rock. "Our outstanding franchisees, school teams, and corporate support staff have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to sharing the transformative experience of performance-based music education and our internationally recognized business model. It is their dedication that has enabled us to achieve this recognition, and we are proud to work alongside them as we continue to expand and grow."

The Global Franchise Awards, now in its sixth year, seek to honor the most exceptional franchise brands and spread awareness about franchising. The accolade School of Rock accepted highlights the brand's highly differentiated model, track record of success, and additional global scalability.

School of Rock currently serves 60,000 students across 327 locations worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Chile, South Africa, Australia, the Philippines, Paraguay, Colombia, Taiwan, and Spain, with new flagship schools recently launched in Mexico, Ireland, and Portugal. School of Rock shows no signs of slowing down, opening 27 new schools in 2022 alone.

School of Rock provides students of all ages an exciting and engaging music education experience, which includes bass lessons , guitar lessons , singing lessons , drum lessons , and piano lessons . Drawing from all styles of rock and roll, School of Rock students learn theory and techniques via songs from legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Lenny Kravitz, and Led Zeppelin. Thanks to the school's performance-based approach, students around the world have gained superior musical proficiency, with some moving on to record deals and larger platforms such as American Idol, The Voice and Broadway.

For more information on School of Rock visit www.SchoolofRock.com or call 866-695-5515. To learn more about School of Rock franchise opportunities visit http://franchising.schoolofrock.com/

About School of Rock

School of Rock helps aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity, and develop tools they need to thrive in life. Founded as a single school in Philadelphia, Pa., in 1998, School of Rock has become a rapidly growing international franchise with over 500 schools open and in development across 15 global markets. Since 2009, School of Rock has grown its student count from 4,000 to 60,000. School of Rock offers a wide variety of music lessons , including guitar lessons , singing lessons and piano lessons . The company also sells musical instruments and music gear through its GearSelect program. School of Rock is proud to support Music Will (formerly Little Kids Rock), the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM), and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS). School of Rock was awarded US Patent 10,891,872 in 2021 for its innovative music education method. School of Rock also has garnered the following industry awards: 2022 and 2021 Global Franchise's Awards Best Children's Service and Education Franchise; 2023 Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 Top Children's Music Enrichment Brand; 2021 Franchise Innovation Award for Most Innovative Use of Customer-Facing Digital Tools; Franchise Business Review's 2023 Top 200 Franchises and Culture 200 list; 2020 Entrepreneur Magazine's Top 200 Franchise and the #1 Child Enrichment Franchise; and 2018 Forbes # 2 Best Franchise Medium-Level Investment Award and the #1 Music Franchise in America.

Follow School of Rock on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SchoolofRockUSA and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SchoolofRockUSA .

For more information on School of Rock visit www.SchoolofRock.com or call 866-695-5515. To learn more about School of Rock franchise opportunities head to http://franchising.schoolofrock.com/

SOURCE School of Rock
MILWAUKEE, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ademi LLP is investigating Broadmark (NYSE: BRMK) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its transaction with Ready Capital.

Click here to learn how to join the action https://www.ademilaw.com/case/broadmark-realty-capital-inc or call Guri Ademi toll-free at 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.

Ademi LLP alleges Broadmark's financial outlook and prospects are excellent and yet Broadmark shareholders are expected to receive only 0.47233 shares of Ready Capital common stock for each of share of Broadmark share. The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing bids for Broadmark by imposing a significant penalty if Broadmark accepts a superior bid. Broadmark insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.

We are investigating the conduct of Broadmark's board of directors, and whether they are (i) fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders, and (ii) obtaining a fair and reasonable price for Broadmark.

If you own Broadmark common stock and wish to obtain additional information, please contact Guri Ademi either at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995, or https://www.ademilaw.com/case/broadmark-realty-capital-inc.

We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights throughout the country. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

Contacts

Ademi LLP

Guri Ademi

Toll Free: (866) 264-3995

Fax: (414) 482-8001

SOURCE Ademi LLP
Michael Abbatiello to serve as VP of Behavioral Health at St. Mary's Health System

BALTIMORE, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sheppard Pratt recently announced that its consulting and management services division, Sheppard Pratt Solutions, has entered into a management agreement with St. Mary's Health System, a member of Covenant Health, in Lewiston, Maine. This partnership will help improve and expand access to St. Mary's Health System's behavioral health program. Sheppard Pratt Solutions offers consultation, management, and development services at a programmatic or facility level, and it was launched in response to the increased demand for behavioral health services and a burgeoning need to make care more accessible nationwide through strategic partnerships with hospitals and healthcare systems. Sheppard Pratt is recognized and respected as a national leader, with an unmatched breadth and depth of knowledge, clinical expertise, and the most comprehensive continuum of programs in the behavioral health field. Sheppard Pratt Solutions is leveraging expertise in operating high-quality behavioral health services at scale to work with partner organizations to improve and expand mental health services in communities across the nation.

"We are pleased to partner with St. Mary's Health System and extend Sheppard Pratt's knowledge, clinical expertise, and resources in behavioral health to serve communities in Maine," says Harsh K. Trivedi, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Sheppard Pratt. "The need for behavioral health services is tremendous and that need is felt in every community across the nation. Sheppard Pratt Solutions offers the ability for health systems to address local community needs by partnering with a national leader who shares a commitment to providing high-quality, evidence-based, compassionate behavioral health services. St. Mary's Health System is among the first in a series of agreements to expand the impact of Sheppard Pratt across the nation."

Sheppard Pratt has hired Michael Abbatiello, MPPM, FACHE, to serve as vice president of behavioral health for St. Mary's Health System and executive director, behavioral health for Covenant Health. In this role, Abbatiello will provide operational and financial oversight of the behavioral health services. He has more than 30 years of expertise in healthcare, and prior to this role, served as senior vice president of operations and chief financial officer for Sweetser and Maine Behavioral Healthcare.

"This is an exciting time for St. Mary's as we work with Sheppard Pratt to transform one of our key service lines," says St. Mary's Health System president, Steve Jorgensen. "By partnering with Sheppard Pratt and utilizing the best practices of Sheppard Pratt Solutions, we build on our reputation of excellence and provide the very best in behavioral healthcare for our patients."

In addition to supporting the management of the behavioral health service line, the agreement gives St. Mary's Health System employees access to Sheppard Pratt's resources, including a continuing professional education platform, as well as subject matter experts for case consultations and specialty services.

Launched in 2021,Sheppard Pratt Solutions has engagements in more than 20 states to provide consultation, management, and development services.

About Sheppard Pratt

Sheppard Pratt is the largest private, nonprofit provider of mental health, substance use, developmental disability, special education, and social services in the country. A nationwide resource, Sheppard Pratt provides services across a comprehensive continuum of care, spanning both hospital- and community-based resources. Since its founding in 1853, Sheppard Pratt has been innovating the field through research, best practice implementation, and a focus on improving the quality of mental health care on a global level. Sheppard Pratt has been consistently ranked as a top national psychiatric hospital by U.S. News & World Report for more than 30 years.

About St. Mary's Health System

St. Mary's Health System, a member of Covenant Health, was founded in 1888 by the Sisters of Charity of Saint-Hyacinthe. Today, it is an integrated medical system comprised of a 233-bed acute care community hospital, an employed group of primary care and specialty providers, urgent care and emergency department, an extensive complement of behavioral and mental health services and outpatient specialty practices. St. Mary's Health System also includes d'Youville Pavilion, a senior care community that offers a rehabilitation center, long-term skilled nursing care and memory care. We combine talented and compassionate caregivers with state-of-the-art medical technology to meet Androscoggin County's health care needs.

SOURCE Sheppard Pratt
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SK Telecom (NYSE: SKM, hereinafter referred to as "SKT") today held a press conference in Barcelona, Spain, to unveil its ambitious plans to achieve 'AI to Everywhere' by driving innovations in five different areas, namely Customer & Technology, Time & Space, AI Transformation(AIX) for Industries, Core Business Model, and ESG.

Customer & Technology

SKT to Lead AI Transformation in Industry and Society with AI Services and Technologies

CEO Ryu said that SKT's AI service 'A.' has successfully settled in the Korean market by securing 1 million subscribers within just 9 months of its launch, and unveiled plans to further upgrade the service to not only shape it into the leading AI service in Korea, but also to develop opportunities in the global market.

Through acquisition of sufficient knowledge data and machine learning, SKT is currently developing A. features that will enable users to engage in highly intellectual dialogues as well as emotional conversations that make users feel as if they are talking to their friends. It also plans to keep linking more and more features to A. for a more intuitive user experience  i.e. by removing the need to move between apps or conduct cumbersome searches.

The company plans to expand the variety and scope of A. features/services from 30 to 100, and is currently promoting partnerships with popular character companies.

CEO Ryu stated that the new features, including advanced conversations, multiple characters, and customized content, will be included in the updated version of A. to be released within this quarter.

He also shared his ambitions to advance into the global market with A. by customizing the service to each different market and advancing related technologies in cooperation with global telcos and AI tech companies.

Time & Space

CEO Ryu said that SKT will expand time and space for customers by increasing the realm of its business from ground to air and from reality to virtual space, and expand its role from a mobile operator to mobility operator via services like urban air mobility (UAM), autonomous driving and robots.

He explained that the company is moving fast to achieve commercialization of UAM service by developing use cases and conducting test flights, and has gained strong competitiveness in key UAM technologies such as aircrafts, 5G UAM communication network, navigation/ control, and location analysis.

Ryu also unveiled plans to introduce diverse use cases  e.g. UAM flight between airport and city centers, tourism products, etc. - in collaboration with local governments including Jeju and Daegu.

In the area of autonomous driving, which is being promoted as a long-term project, the company plans to enter into the AI solutions market.

CEO Ryu stated that SKT will develop a world-class self-driving solution package by combining SAPEON's semiconductor chip for autonomous driving, software technology of Phantom AI, a company SKT decided to invest in, and SKT's experience acquired through the operation of 'Nugu Auto,' an AI platform for automobiles.

In the area of robots, the company has launched diverse types of robots, including logistics robot and barista robot, and plans to boost the AI ecosystem by cooperating with Qualcomm and Integrit to develop an open robotics data platform.

CEO Ryu also talked about ifland, a metaverse service that takes customers beyond limitations of time and space.

With over 2,500 partners and 4 million monthly active users (MAU), ifland has grown into Korea's representative metaverse service optimized for virtual gatherings.

Ryu said that SKT will shape ifland into a global leading social metaverse platform by evolving it into a 3D space-based social networking service in April, expanding ifland's economic system through the adoption of a content marketplace and Web3 system, and increasing partnerships both home and abroad.

He unveiled that ifland has gained a bridgehead into the European, North American and Asian markets by signing MOUs with global telcos including Deutsche Telekom, T-Mobile US, Axiata and CelcomDigi.

AI Transformation (AIX) for Industries

CEO Ryu explained that SKT is facilitating AI transformation of industries with its AI technologies. The company is working closely with brilliant startups in areas such as infrastructure & hardware, base technology, and application/service, and plans to continuously expand into new business areas, including security, health care, advertising, smart factory and enterprise solutions.

He said that SKT is witnessing rapid growth in the infrastructure & hardware area by achieving outstanding performance in the AI semiconductor market in partnership with SAPEON Inc.

AI semiconductor chip X330 to be released by SAPEON Inc. in the second half of this year is expected to provide four times stronger performance than its predecessor, X220. SAPEON is increasing its market presence by supplying chips to NHN Cloud, SKT NPU (Neural Processing Unit) Farm, SK Hynix's Smart Factory, and expanding the ecosystem through close collaboration with Phantom AI (autonomous driving), and Konan Technology (deep learning model).

By attracting investment, SAPEON saw its corporate value increase by more than six times in less than a year, from KRW 80 billion at the time of establishment in 2022 to KRW 500 billion in 2023.

In the cloud business, SKT is creating synergies with Bespin Global, Asia's No.1 managed service provider by cooperating with OpsNow to jointly develop an AI-based cloud management platform.

In the area of base technology & application/service, the company launched an integrated advertising platform 'ASUM' by combining its massive customer data with Moloco's AI/machine learning technology.

In addition, in cooperation with AI software company Konan Technology, SKT is working to expand into diverse industries, including robot, media, data analysis, commerce, airport and manufacturing, with AI video, machine learning and digital twinning, etc.

The company is also collaborating with Swit, a global work OS solution provider, to integrate internal and external services including MeetUs and Toktok, conduct joint marketing leveraging sales capabilities of SKT and SKB, and advance AI technologies.

Armed with world-class vision AI technologies, SKT plans to advance into the global market through cooperation with global top cloud service providers. The company is generating tangible results by offering 'X Caliber,' a vision AI-based veterinary image diagnostic solution adopted by over 120 veterinary clinics, and other services such as security dispatch and industrial safety management using AI cameras.

Core Business Model

CEO Ryu explained how AI can enhance the competitiveness of SKT's core businesses like mobile telecommunications, media and subscription.

In line with the trend where boundaries between businesses are blurring, SKT will promote a whole new digital transformation in its mobile telecommunications business to innovate customer experience through hyper-personalized services.

In the media business, the company is preparing AI TV, AI commerce and AI content to enhance customer experience and accelerate AI transformation across the media value chain.

SKT's subscription business 'T Universe' saw its subscribers, partners and GMV double last year. This year, efforts will be made to increase both the size and profitability of the business by creating synergies between T-Deal and Btv, introducing new products (e.g. financial, insurance, rental, etc.), and partnering with major global brands.

This year, the company plans to launch an AI-based open subscription commerce platform to recommend what customers want through hyper-personalized marketing based on lifecycle data, and allow partners to manage and supply products on the platform.

ESG

CEO Ryu stressed that SKT aims to create a better world with AI by tackling social problems by utilizing AI technologies.

SKT's language AI and vision AI technologies are spreading a positive influence throughout society. 'AI Care' and 'Nugu Care Call' have been provided to a combined total of 50,000 one-person households, and AI Care has rescued 400 seniors in emergency situations. Also, SKT's Spam Filtering System blocked more than 4 million cases of smishing last year alone. Moreover, the company is working together with many social startups including Tuat, a social startup providing visual assistance apps for people with visual impairments.

Accelerating AI Transformation through Partnerships

CEO Ryu said that SKT will accelerate AI innovations through partnerships and collaborations with AI tech companies. In this regard, CEOs of SKT's AI partners, including Phantom AI, SAPEON, Bespin Global, Moloco, Konan Technology, Swit, and Tuat, attended the press conference to introduce their AI technologies and future vision.

Ryu stressed that together with its partners, SKT will make efforts to build a new ecosystem and play a leading role in realizing AI transformation that delivers unprecedented value to all customers, companies and industries.

"SKT's AI innovation in the five areas is aimed at realizing 'AI to Everywhere,' which refers to applying AI to every part of our lives," said Ryu Young-sang, CEO of SKT, "Our ultimate goal is to create a world where everyone can benefit from AI."

About SK Telecom

SK Telecom has been leading the growth of the mobile industry since 1984. Now, it is taking customer experience to new heights by extending beyond connectivity. By placing AI at the core of its business, SK Telecom is rapidly transforming into an AI company. It is focusing on driving innovations in areas of telecommunications, media, AI, metaverse, cloud and connected intelligence to deliver greater value for both individuals and enterprises.

SOURCE SK Telecom
RAMAT GAN, Israel , Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rambam Health Care Campus and Synch communication, with support and funding from the Israel Innovation Authority together with the Ministry of Communications and partners, have launched a groundbreaking smart 5G network and network-integrated application for the healthcare industry.

Synch PTT launches medical care app (PRNewsfoto/Synch communication and Rambam Hospital)

Together with Pelephone, who provides the advanced 5G network, Rambam IT department who integrated the system to the hospital electronic patient record (EPR) and Elbit Systems for the command-and-control capabilities, the Synch Collaboration app, leverages floLIVE 5G core network technology to enhance communication among medical staff in the hospital's emergency room. The app features push-to-talk (PTT over cellular) functionality and uses voice recognition and keyword detection technologies to ensure a prompt and effective response in emergency situations. The smart network can detect and allocate resources based on emergency keywords used in communications among ER teams.

Effective collaboration among medical personnel is a major challenge in hospitals, especially in critical situations where quick access to patient data, medical history, and expertise is essential. The Synch app offers smart tools for collaboration between the hospital's command center, teams, medical events, and patients.

Care givers and the EPR medical file collaborate to provide better treatment:

The Synch app provides medical personnel with automated tools for retrieving medical files, obtaining medical advice, and forming consultation groups. All communications are secure and comply with strict medical privacy regulations. One of its most useful features is the clinicians consultation application, SyncHealth, which allows care givers to scan a patient's barcode and instantly connect with the team of doctors, care givers, and the medical record who have previously treated the patient and are knowledgeable about the patient's condition. This enables the care giver to consult with the team, share relevant information, and receive insights that can improve the patient's treatment process and lead to faster recovery.

Rambam and Synch are committed to developing digital healthcare solutions that incorporate smart networks, AI, and collaboration technologies to enhance public health and efficiency in hospitals.

Synch communication enables immediate communication via voice (PTT), text, video and location with any user, group, device apps and data over cellular and WiFi. By embedding Synch, managers can always stay in control and organisations can experience a dramatic upswing in their teams efficiency, productivity and safety.

For more information: https://synchapp.io/

Rambam Health Care Campus is a 1000-bed world-class teaching hospital. The patient population is diverse, as Rambam is the major tertiary (referral) medical center for all of Northern Israel, including12 district hospitals and defense and peacekeeping forces stationed in the region. Serving more than two million residents and others referred from all over Israel, the Mediterranean region, and around the world, Rambam is strategically located in Haifa on the Mediterranean coast and plays a critical role in the healthcare of the region's residents, in addition to making a major contribution to the economy of the north.

For more information: https://www.rambam.org.il/

Contact:

Guy Halamish

[email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2010317/Synch_PTT.jpg

SOURCE Synch communication and Rambam Hospital
The VTech Company's Easy-to-Install Cordless Office System Allows for Flexible Deployment Anywhere within a Business Location

CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Snom, a subsidiary of VTech Holdings Limited, introduced today the M500 Pro wireless family. The M500 is an industry first, cloud accessible and provision-capable SIP based Key System Unit; a cordless phone system that allows freedom from wired networks for fast and flexible deployment anywhere within a business. The Snom M500 Pro comes as its own "office in a box" solution featuring the M500 Pro Multicell Base Station, M58 Desk Phone and M55 Handset which are all easily programmable, intuitive without user training and expandable.

The M500 Pro wireless family is a Key System Unit that utilizes Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) technology, which offers better reliability and security than Wi-Fi, to form a completely customizable solution with two base stations and 16 handsets or desksets that will soon be expandable up to 6 base stations and 48 handsets. This will enable business users to easily and seamlessly answer and transfer calls utilizing programmable fixed line keys, page their entire team or carry hands-free conversations on the go with up to eight calls simultaneously per base station.

With the M500 Pro, small and medium-sized businesses will receive all the benefits of Cloud UC (cost savings, performance benefits, user-friendliness and more) without giving up the existing one line/one key call handling (Key System) or busy lamp field (BLF), two features they've known and loved about their traditional wired key system. As a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) Key System Unit (KSU), the cloud-accessible M500 Pro allows users to pick up the receiver from multiple lines with one touch of a button. For service providers, the cloud simplifies the provisioning process and makes it easier to troubleshoot any issues, while allowing for fast deployment of large site installations.

"Snom offers a broad selection of VoIP solutions to meet the unique needs of any small and midsize business," said Brian Tompkins, Vice President Sales, Snom Americas, a VTech Company. "The M500 Pro wireless family is an all-encompassing communications solution that will streamline administrative operations and allow owners to focus on what matters most  their business specialty and team."

M500 PRO KEY ADVANTAGES:

The Snom M500 Pro provides critical advantages for business users including:

Simple, Painless Deployment

Service provider takes care of easy set up from A to Z for rapid installation and remote provisioning, while system updates are completed over the air to save you time and resources

Wireless Freedom for an "Office in a Box"

The cordless base station and cordless handsets offers mobility throughout the office. The cordless desk set offers flexibility since it can be placed wherever there is power

Increased Scalability with DECT Wireless Technology

The expanded DECT range allows for increased call capacity by pairing multiple base stations, with the capacity to register up to 48 phones in the same network

Excellent Usability

Intuitive to use, the handsets and desk sets provide large color displays and built-in Bluetooth  connectivity, with audio quality fine-tuned for maximum voice clarity and background noise reduction

connectivity, with audio quality fine-tuned for maximum voice clarity and background noise reduction Reliability and Security that is Built for Business

Seamless handover between M500 base station means no dropped calls as you roam. Streamline administrative operations with ease and get back to your specialty

To learn more about the Snom M500 Wireless Family, visit www.snomamericas.com.

About Snom

As a pioneer and a leading brand of professional and enterprise VoIP phones, Snom provides a diverse collection of telecommunication products that elevate the business user experience through state-of the-art technology and design. These business phones are sold through a wide network of trusted partners and are backed by industry-leading warranties and North American-based training and support. Acquired by VTech Holdings Limited in 2016, Snom started launching products for the North American market in 2019, which includes color desk sets, cordless phones, wireless conference phones, and public broadcasting systems. VTech is headquartered in Hong Kong and listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKSE: 303). For more information, please visit www.snomamericas.com.  2021 VTech Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. VTech is a registered trademark of VTech Holdings Limited. Snom is a registered trademark of Snom Technology GmbH. Use of Snom by VTech is under license. Third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owner.

SOURCE Snom Americas
The rise in demand for clean power generation for the transport and power sectors, an increase in distributed power systems, and high efficiency of fuel cells than other power generating systems drive the global stationary fuel cell market.

PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Stationary Fuel Cell Market by Capacity (Less than 1kW, 1 KW to 5kW, 5kW to 250kW, 250kW to 1MW, More than 1MW), by Type (Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC), Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell (PAFC), Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC), Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC), Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC), Others), by Application (Combined Heat and Power (CHP), Prime Power, Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS), Others), by End-Use Industry (Transportation, Defense, Oil and Gas, Utilities, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031" According to the report, the global stationary fuel cell industry was valued at $2.6 billion in 2021 and is estimated to generate $9.0 billion by 2031, witnessing a CAGR of 13.1% from 2022 to 2031. The report offers a detailed analysis of changing market trends, top segments, key investment pockets, value chain, regional landscape, and competitive scenario.



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Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities

The rise in demand for clean power generation for the transport and power sectors, an increase in distributed power systems, and high efficiency of fuel cells than other power generating systems drive cell market. However, the high cost of fuel cell systems and lack of hydrogen infrastructure hinder the global market growth. On the other hand, technological advancements in fuel cells, such as flexibility & improving operational efficiency, and rapid investment toward R&D of fuel cell systems will present new growth opportunities for the global stationary fuel cell market in the coming years.

Covid-19 Scenario

During the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns and curfews caused various manufacturing processes to be halted, forcing fuel prices to skyrocket.

Moreover, rise in customer knowledge about the need to cut GHG emissions and improve air quality is expected to boost the market demand.

The 5kW to 250kW segment to grab the largest revenue during the forecast period

Based on capacity, the 5kW to 250kW segment contributed to the largest share of more than two-fifths of the global stationary fuel cell market in 2021 and is expected to rule the roost during the forecast period. The government programs and incentives, particularly in organizations for economic co-operation and development (OCED) in countries such as the U.S., the UK, Germany, Japan, and others are expected to drive the growth of combined heat and power, which has a significant impact on the development of the 5kW to 250kW fuel cells. However, the more than 1MW segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 14.0% from 2022 to 2031. Stationary fuel cells in the 1MW category have a wide range of applications in the power generation industry.

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The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) segment to dominate the market during the forecast period

Based on type, the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) segment contributed to the largest share of nearly three-fifths of the global stationary fuel cell market in 2021 and is expected to maintain its leadership in terms of revenue during the forecast period. Increased investment in R&D and high adoption of zero-emission vehicles drive the growth of the segment. However, the molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 14.6% from 2022 to 2031. This is due to the development of molten carbonate fuel cells that use CO2 as a reactant. The increase in global warming due to greenhouse gases, especially CO2, plays a major role in environmental changes. Hence, molten carbonates are being used as a raw material to produce MCFCs.

Asia-Pacific to achieve the largest revenue and fastest growth by 2031

Based on region, the market in Asia-Pacific was the largest in 2021, accounting for nearly three-fifths of the global stationary fuel cell market and is likely to maintain its dominance during the forecast timeframe. The same market is likely to show the fastest CAGR of 13.5% during the forecast period. Asia-Pacific has amazing potential for the stationary fuel cell market due to the rising concerns from governments across emerging nations, such as China, India, and South Korea, towards zero carbon emission norms. The rise in automotive businesses and growth in the power & electronics sector in China and India are gaining traction for fuel cells from these sectors, which is projected to drive the growth of the market during the forecast period.

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Leading Market Players

Ballard Power Systems

Fuji Electric Co Ltd.

Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies Pte Ltd.

Plug Power Inc.

Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems Ltd.

Toshiba Fuel Cell Power Systems Corporation

Posco Energy

Denso Corporation

Fuelcell Energy Inc.

Aisin Seiki Co., Ltd.

The report analyzes these key players of the global stationary fuel cell market. These players have adopted various strategies such as expansion, new product launches, partnerships, and others to increase their market penetration and strengthen their position in the industry. The report is helpful in determining the business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and developments by every market player.

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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.

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
Black and African American Connections to Parkinson's Disease (BLAAC PD) study builds to six sites with the inclusion of Louisiana State University and University of Florida

and Collaborative research effort from the Aligning Science Across Parkinson's initiative and The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research supports global program to grow understanding of genetic architecture of Parkinson's disease

Deeper understanding of population-specific pathological variants may support development of novel interventions and/or application of therapies already in testing

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Black and African American Connections to Parkinson's Disease (BLAAC PD) study announces the addition of two clinical site partners  Louisiana State University and University of Florida  extending this effort to six locations and growing its partnership with populations traditionally underrepresented in research to better understand the genetic architecture of Parkinson's disease. BLAAC PD is a study of the Global Parkinson's Genetics Program (GP2), a resource of the Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) initiative that is executed by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF).

"The BLAAC PD study is an opportunity for Black and African American people to participate in the pursuit of cures for Parkinson's  the fastest growing neurological disease  for themselves, their children and their community. We are proud to join as a clinical site and to contribute to a global initiative that is looking both for what makes a population unique and for what is shared," said Ashley Rawls, MD, MS, clinical assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Medicine and BLAAC PD site principal investigator.

Since its launch in 2021, BLAAC PD has also enrolled participants at Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic, Rush University, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and University of Chicago. The study is recruiting volunteers from the Black or African American community  people with Parkinson's disease and people without the disease or a family history of Parkinson's (control participants). Participants contribute a one-time blood or saliva sample for DNA testing and clinical data around demographics and medical/family history. This aims to better understand the unique differences that present between ethnic heritages.

Interested volunteers can learn more and connect with a site at www.blaacpd.org

Data and samples from BLAAC PD are shared with GP2, which is gathering and analyzing such resources from over 150 cohorts from more than 50 countries. De-identified data is shared with the global research community to speed findings around population-specific or overlapping genetic traits related to PD. These findings could identify novel pathological pathways with potential for therapeutic intervention. Alternatively, they could support application of therapies already in development to additional populations.

"Genetic understanding unlocks a door that scientists walk through toward cures," said MJFF Director of Clinical Operations Alyssa O'Grady. "We are grateful to the participant and clinical site partners building this study to learn more about Parkinson's-linked genetic changes in Black and African American populations toward better treatments for all."

Complementary Efforts Aim to Understand and Treat Parkinson's Disease in the Black and African American Community

While genetics research and cutting-edge technologies have advanced Parkinson's disease understanding in recent decades, most studies have only included people of European descent. The GP2 study is addressing that challenge. The Michael J. Fox Foundation supports additional efforts  some feeding to GP2  to explore population-specific genetics, clinical disease experience, and access to care. In parallel, the Foundation works toward inclusive research practices, integrating varied patient perspectives and priorities and enrolling participants of diverse backgrounds into clinical studies.

"The moment you hear 'You have Parkinson's disease,' it can come as a shock and bring many questions. For Black and African American people and families, it can feel isolating when you don't think others in your community understand or live with the disease," said Dionne Phillips, a BLAAC PD volunteer who lives in Chicago and was diagnosed with PD at age 39. "It's important for everyone to get involved in research toward better understanding of the disease and ultimately, a cure, not just for our community living with it today but those who may be diagnosed tomorrow."

About Aligning Science Across Parkinson's Disease (ASAP)

The Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP) initiative is a coordinated research initiative to advance targeted basic research for Parkinson's disease. ASAP is devoted to accelerating the pace of discovery and informing the path to a cure for Parkinson's disease through collaboration, research-enabling resources, and data sharing. Led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Randy Schekman and Dr. Ekemini Riley, ASAP is managed by the Coalition for Aligning Science and is working with The Michael J. Fox Foundation to implement its programs. The initiative was incubated at the Milken Institute Center for Strategic Philanthropy with support from the Sergey Brin Family Foundation. For more information, visit www.parkinsonsroadmap.org.

About The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF)

As the world's largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson's research, The Michael J. Fox Foundation is dedicated to accelerating a cure for Parkinson's disease and improved therapies for those living with the condition today. The Foundation pursues its goals through an aggressively funded, highly targeted research program coupled with active global engagement of scientists, Parkinson's patients, business leaders, clinical trial participants, donors and volunteers. In addition to funding $1.75 billion in research to date, the Foundation has fundamentally altered the trajectory of progress toward a cure. Operating at the hub of worldwide Parkinson's research, the Foundation forges groundbreaking collaborations with industry leaders, academic scientists and government research funders; creates a robust open- access data set and biosample library to speed scientific breakthroughs and treatment with its landmark clinical study, PPMI; increases the flow of participants into Parkinson's disease clinical trials with its online tool, Fox Trial Finder; promotes Parkinson's awareness through high-profile advocacy, events and outreach; and coordinates the grassroots involvement of thousands of Team Fox members around the world. For more information, visit us at www.michaeljfox.org, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn.

SOURCE The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
LONDON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Imagine the future, in which renewables will be the primary source of electricity generation, much of it from wind and solar plants. The power system impedance will become increasingly higher and the power system inertia will decline. As a result, the power system will become weak with a huge instability in both voltage and frequency.

Dr. James Li from Sungrow Speaks at Energy Storage Summit 2023

To tackle the challenges of the weak power system, diverse ancillary services are required, including frequency response, reliability backup, voltage control, black-start and islanding services, etc. Energy storage plays in offering these ancillary services to fight climate change and ensure global adoption of clean energy grids.

The ESS is not a simple mechanical stack-up. The success of an ESS is based on experience in different fields, including electrochemistry, power electronics, and power grid support technologies. Together, these technologies will play a decisive part in ensuring that tomorrow's energy system is secure, profitable, and resilient. Sungrow is one of a few of companies qualified for the experiences from these three fields and continues offering professional highly-integrated solutions to customers.

"At Sungrow, we believe that innovation holds the key to creating a more resilient energy system at every level. We pioneer in the energy storage realm and offer our liquid cooled energy storage systems (ESS), the PowerTitan and PowerStack designed for utility-scale as well as commercial and industrial (C&I) applications, which can guarantee high profitability and safety," said Dr. James Li, Director of PV & Energy Storage System Product Solutions from Sungrow Europe, in his speech titled, "How does Sungrow energy storage system provide support to future networks and grid operators?", at the recent Energy Storage Summit 2023 held on February 22-23 in the UK.

The liquid cooled ESS PowerTitan is optimized for utility-scale applications. The intelligent liquid cooled temperature control technology ensures higher efficiency and longer battery cycle life. The new DC-DC controller can charge and discharge battery racks individually, improving the overall system performance. The automatic state of charge (SoC) calibration and the automated coolant refilling considerably reduce operating and maintenance (O&M) costs.

In addition, tailored to C&I energy storage projects, Sungrow offers its liquid cooled ESS solution, the PowerStack. The solution is a portfolio with a battery capacity ranging from 250 kWh to 4 MWh, available for two- to four-hour applications. It features cell-level AI monitoring, enabling early alarming. In addition, the energy management system (EMS) intelligent scheduling increases the project's yield by 10%.

"The C&I battery storage could lower Europe's electricity costs for the C&I facilities which they are installed at but could also help manage the cost of power for consumers," presented Dr. James Li.

As an early entrant in the EMEA energy storage market, Sungrow has supplied its ESS to plenty of landmark projects including a 100 MWh project and a 391MWh project in the UK, and a 430 MWh project in Israel. The Company is poised to deploy more energy storage projects with its new liquid cooled ESS PowerTitan and PowerStack in the region.

About Sungrow

Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd. ("Sungrow") is the world's most bankable inverter brand with over 269 GW installed worldwide as of June 2022. Founded in 1997 by Professor Cao Renxian, Sungrow is a leader in the research and development of solar inverters with the largest dedicated R&D team in the industry and a broad product portfolio offering PV inverter solutions and energy storage systems for utility-scale, commercial & industrial, and residential applications, as well as internationally recognized floating PV plant solutions, NEV driving solutions, EV charging solutions and renewable hydrogen production systems. With a strong 25-year track record in the PV space, Sungrow products power over 150 countries worldwide. Learn more about Sungrow by visiting www.sungrowpower.com.

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SOURCE Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Lawmakers in the Netherlands called on Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra to take action for the immediate opening of the Lachin Corridor by Azerbaijan and restoration of unimpeded access to Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), the Federation of Armenian Organisations in the Netherlands (FAON) reported.

FAON said that Dutch MP Pieter Outsight and 12 other MPs of parliamentary factions  Brekelmans (VVD), Mulder (CDA), De Roon (PVV), Van Dijk (SP), Van der Staaij (SGP), Ceder (CU), Piri (PvdA), Van der Lee (GroenLinks), Koekkoek (Volt), Teunissen (PvdD), Eppink (Ja21) and Van der Plas (BBB) have consolidated their voices to address questions to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands urging to take action for the immediate opening of the Lachin Corridor by Azerbaijan.

The questions call for an unambiguous stance in regards to the application of the ICJ order, according to which Azerbaijan must take all necessary measures to halt the blockade and ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor, in both directions, and asks what steps the Netherlands is planning to take in order to have the Azerbaijani authorities implement the ruling. The MPs ask if the Minister has taken note of the fact that the ambassador of Azerbaijan in the Netherlands made provocative tweets about ongoing NGOs peaceful action, which underscores once again the absolute ignorance of the Azerbaijani officials to the ruling of the ICJ. Among other questions the MPs also inquire, in case the Minister shares the opinion that Azerbaijan does not meet the ruling of the Court, if he intends to address the ambassador of Azerbaijan about it. The MPs also want to know what steps the Netherlands will take towards EU, Council of Europe and UN for the immediate implementation of the ruling. The MPs also ask about Azerbaijans obligation, being a member of organisations as UN and Council of Europe, to stop the ongoing violations of human rights and international law, and also this ruling of the International Court of Justice. The FAON also took note and welcomes the statement by the Dutch MFA calling upon Azerbaijan to abide by the legally binding decision of the ICJ. FAON has been active for the opening of Lachin corridor towards Dutch public, media and politics since December 12th, resulting in several debates and 2 motions (December 14 and January 19) and held a 3-day Silent Protest demonstration in front of the parliament on January 17,18,19, submitting a petition on January 17 to the parliament and a rally at the Peace Palace on January 30 in The Hague, reads the FAON press release.

The United Nations highest court  the International Court of Justice - ordered Azerbaijan to take all steps at its disposal to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions.

The Lachin Corridor is blocked by Azerbaijan since 12 December 2022.
REDDING, Calif., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new market research report titled, "Surgical Robots Market by Product & Service (Surgical Instruments & Accessories, Robotic Systems, Services), Application (Orthopedic, Obstetrics & Gynecological, Cardiovascular & Thoracic, Urology, General Surgery), and End User - Global Forecast to 2030", published by Meticulous Research, the surgical robots market is projected to reach $25.47 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 15.4% during the forecast period 20232030.

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Surgeries with the assistance of robots enable precision even in hard-to-reach areas with less downtime. Robotic surgery systems can be used for obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedic, cardiothoracic, urology, and many more applications. These robotic systems are mostly preferred to perform minimally invasive surgeries due to their precise operating capabilities. With benefits such as greater control, flexibility, and precision, demand for surgical robots is expected to increase at a higher rate.

The Advantages Associated with the Robot-Assisted Surgery Drive the Growth of the Surgical Robots Market

The advantages of robot-assisted surgeries over conventional surgical methods are primarily triggering the use of surgical robots in several complex surgical processes. One of the major advantages is accuracy in implant placements. Other advantages, such as better hand & eye coordination, improvement in visualization, ergonomic positioning, and less invasive methods, also largely support the adoption of surgical robots in hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers. Furthermore, hospitals around the world are shifting their strategies to focus on minimally invasive surgeries rather than open surgeries to improve overall treatment outcomes, which in turn supports the adoption of surgical robots.

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The global surgical robots market study is segmented by product & service (surgical instruments & accessories, robotic systems & services), application (orthopedic, obstetrics & gynecological, cardiovascular & thoracic, urology, general surgery, and other applications), end user (hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers), and geography. The study also evaluates industry competitors and analyzes their market shares at the global and regional levels.

Based on product & service, in 2023, the instruments & accessories segment is expected to account for the largest share of the surgical robots market. Factors such as the increase in robotic surgical procedures, product launches by key market players, and the growing need for advanced surgical instruments for complex surgical procedures are primarily supporting the large market share of this segment.

Based on application, in 2023, the orthopedic surgery segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global surgical robots market. The large market share of this segment is mainly attributed to the increasing need for robotic assistance for complex joint replacement surgical procedures. Orthopedic surgeries are done with the assistance of robots for several benefits, such as smaller and less invasive scars, precise implantation, and reduced operation time compared to traditional surgical processes. Moreover, robotically replaced joints have a longer lifespan and lower failure rate. Furthermore, the increase in musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis, osteopenia, osteoarthritis, and traumatic fractures also supports the adoption of surgical robots. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) 2022 report, musculoskeletal conditions affect approximately 1.71 billion people in the world. This number is expected to increase during the forecast period, likely supporting this segment's growth.

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Based on end user, in 2023, the hospitals segment is expected to account for the largest share of the global surgical robots market. The increasing application of surgical robots in a wide range of common surgical procedures is primarily increasing the demand for robotic systems in hospitals. In addition, patients' growing preference for robot-assisted surgeries, increasing funding to hospitals for advanced surgical systems, and availability of well-developed infrastructure are also supporting the growth of this segment.

Based on geography, in 2023, North America is expected to account for the largest share of the surgical robots market, followed by Europe and Asia-Pacific. The large market share of North America is primarily attributed to the well-established healthcare infrastructure in the U.S. and Canada, the availability of skilled medical professionals, and a growing preference for advanced surgical systems by surgical professionals. In 2023, the U.S. is expected to account for the largest share of the surgical robots market in North America. Market growth in this country is primarily driven by the growing use of surgical robots for general surgeries in the U.S., high healthcare expenditure, and the presence of major market players.

Some of the key players operating in the global surgical robots market are Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (U.S.), Stryker Corporation (U.S.), Medtronic plc (U.S.), Smith & Nephew plc (U.K.), Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. (U.S.), Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc.(U.S.), Asensus Surgical Inc.(U.S.), THINK Surgical, Inc. (U.S.), Renishaw plc, (U.K.), Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany), and CMR Surgical (U.K.).

To gain more insights into the market with a detailed table of content and figures, click here: https://www.meticulousresearch.com/product/surgical-robots-market-5463

Scope of the Report

Surgical Robots Market, by Product & Service

Surgical Instruments & Accessories

Robotic Systems

Services

Surgical Robots Market, by Application

Orthopedic

Obstetrics and Gynecological

Cardiovascular & Thoracic

Urology

General Surgery

Other Applications

Note: Other application includes head & neck and ophthalmology.

Medical Robots Market, by End User

Hospitals

Ambulatory Surgical Centers

Medical Robots Market, by Geography

North America

U.S.



Canada

Europe

Germany



U.K.



France



Italy



Spain



Rest of Europe (RoE)

(RoE) Asia-Pacific

China



Japan



India



Rest of APAC (RoAPAC)

Latin America

Brazil



Mexico



Rest of Latin America (RoLA)

(RoLA) Middle East & Africa

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About Meticulous Research

Meticulous Research was founded in 2010 and incorporated as Meticulous Market Research Pvt. Ltd. in 2013 as a private limited company under the Companies Act, 1956. Since its incorporation, the company has become the leading provider of premium market intelligence in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

The name of our company defines our services, strengths, and values. Since the inception, we have only thrived to research, analyze, and present the critical market data with great attention to details. With the meticulous primary and secondary research techniques, we have built strong capabilities in data collection, interpretation, and analysis of data including qualitative and quantitative research with the finest team of analysts. We design our meticulously analyzed intelligent and value-driven syndicate market research reports, custom studies, quick turnaround research, and consulting solutions to address business challenges of sustainable growth.

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SOURCE Meticulous Market Research Pvt. Ltd.
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Sustained Release Excipients Market by Product, Technology, Route of Administration, and by Region - Global Forecast to 2022-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





The sustained release excipients market size is estimated to be USD 1,395.1 million in 2022 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 8.62% during the forecast period 2023-2033.

Increase in patent expirations, rise in the need for dosage forms for the elderly and paediatric populations, growing knowledge of the additional advantages of controlled-release formulations, escalating incidence of acute and chronic diseases are some of the factors contributing to the market growth.

Additionally, mounting effects of drug abuse on population health is also fuelling the market growth. However, increasing cost of drugs and lack of awareness is expected to hinder the growth.



Escalating incidence of acute and chronic diseases is expected to drive the market growth. Around the world, both acute and chronic diseases are becoming more common. Doctors prescribe medications to treat these conditions. Excipients are frequently present in medicines in addition to the active medicinal components. A huge demand for medications is seen as a result of the rise in chronic disease prevalence. Due of the large volume in the Asia Pacific region, they are in high demand.



Mounting effects of drug abuse on population health is predicted to support the market growth. Abuse of drugs has a significant negative effect on people's and their families' health. Long-term drug and alcohol addiction can result in mental illness, chronic conditions including diabetes and heart disease, and cancer, all of which impose a heavy financial cost on society.

Governments are concentrating on prevention and early intervention measures are likely to increase demand for drugs of abuse. This will help to reduce the economic burden brought on by drug misuse.



By Product



The market is categorized into polymers, alcohol, minerals, gelatin, chitosan, and sugar.

In 2022, the polymers accounted for the highest revenue share due to the rising usage of polymers in sustained-release formulations. In comparison to other types of excipients used in different medicinal formulations, they are stronger and have a longer shelf life. For application as an excipient in solid medicinal formulations, polymers have the ideal characteristics.

Over the past few years, pharmaceutical polymers have advanced from being used to make easy gelatin capsules to strengthening excipient capsules with optimal formulation characteristics that support controlled/sustained release and aid in drug delivery to target areas. Additionally, polyethylene glycol has had great growth over the past several years due to an increase in the number of formulations using it.



By Technology



The market is divided into transdermal, targeted delivery, micro encapsulation, coacervation, wurster technique, implants, others. In the global market, the segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2022 owing to the fact that with targeted drug delivery technology, the drug can be delivered locally, resulting in a uniform effect, less volatility in circulating drug levels, and a minimal risk of side effects.

The greatest CAGR is anticipated for the transdermal route of technology, during the forecast period. In comparison to conventional drug administration methods, transdermal sustained release delivery systems provide a number of benefits, including the ability to circumvent hepatic first-pass metabolism, greatly reduce pharmacological side effects, and significantly increase patient compliance.

These technologies have shown to be more effective than traditional drug delivery methods in the treatment and management of chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. Corplex technology, developed by Corium International, Inc., offers a simpler method of drug delivery by delivering small-molecule medications through the skin.



By Route of Administration



The market is segmented into intramuscular, oral, vaginal, transdermal, intravenous, ophthalmic, subcutaneous, and others.

In 2022, the oral segment accounted for the largest revenue share owing to the fact that it is the simplest and most used method of medication delivery. The availability of the highest active surface area for drug absorption in contrast to other drug delivery methods is one of the major causes behind the high share.

Another significant element that contributes to the widespread adoption of the oral route of drug delivery is the convenience of producing tablets and capsules. The largest CAGR is anticipated for the transdermal method of delivery, during the projected period. This method of administration reduces a number of drawbacks related to the parenteral and oral routes of administration. Transdermal patches are a simple way to promote the prolonged delivery of medications via skin's surface.



Regional Markets



In 2022, Europe region accounted for the highest revenue in the sustained release excipients market and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period.

This is attributed to the rising R&D efforts and the involvement of significant pharmaceutical companies in the area. As a result of expirations and the subsequent entry of generics, it is predicted that the region will continue to grow over the forecast period at a profitable rate.

Additionally, the expansion of regional healthcare organisation partnerships to raise public awareness of chronic diseases and accessible treatment alternatives contributes to the market expansion in Europe. In contrast, Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at the fastest rate over the projection period. The escalating incidence of numerous infectious diseases, the quickly evolving healthcare system, and the growing need for highly effective treatments are all factors contributing to the expansion of this region.



Competitor Insights



To increase the market position, key companies are putting numerous strategies into practise, such as alliances formed through mergers and acquisitions, geographic expansions, and strategic collaborations.



For instance, In February 2021. DuPont effectively incorporated its Nutrition & Biosciences Business with International Flavors & Fragrances. The portfolio has expanded with the inclusion of Aquacoat products, increasing the number of options available to fulfil market requirements.

In the global market for sustained release excipients, firms like BASF Corporation, Ashland Global Holdings Inc., and The Dow Chemical Company account for more than 42.8% of the market's revenue. To enhance the distribution of their products in the sustained release excipients industry, the companies active in this sector are partnering with regional distributors

This comprehensive research report focuses on the global and regional market size and forecasts of diverse segments including product, technology, and route of administration from 2023 to 2033.

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Croda International Plc

Ashland Global

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Mylan N.V.

Pfizer Inc.

AstraZeneca; GlaxoSmithKline plc

Allergan plc

Novartis AG

Gattefosse

Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Mayne Pharma Group Ltd.

BASF

International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.

Evonik Industries

Merck KGaA





Segmentation: Sustained Release Excipients Market Report 2022 - 2033

Product (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

Polymers

Alcohol

Minerals

Gelatin

Chitosan

Sugar

Technology (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

Transdermal

Targeted Delivery

Micro Encapsulation

Coacervation

Wurster Technique

Implants

Others

Route of Administration (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

Intramuscular

Oral

Vaginal

Transdermal

Intravenous

Ophthalmic

Subcutaneous

Others

By Region (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

North America

U.S

Canada

Europe

Germany

France

UK

Spain

Italy

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Australia

South Korea

Rest of APAC

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Argentina

Rest of LATAM

Middle East & Africa

South Africa

GCC

Rest of MEA





For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/obycvz-release?w=5

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.



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Tanishq launches one-of-a-kind gift selection for U.S. consumers post its US store debut.

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- India's largest jewelry retail brand, Tanishq by the Tata Group, impresses again by unveiling its 'Shaped by Love' curation after the first US store launch in New Jersey, just in time for this gifting season.

Shaped by Love collection by Tanishq

Tanishq's "Shaped by Love" celebrates love in a unique way. It highlights the concept that every person, like Tanishq's jewelry, is shaped and molded by love. Tanishq as a brand has always stood for meaningful connections and not just showcasing the superficial aspects of love, and this curation is no different. Crafted in gold, diamonds and colored stones like sapphire, rubies, tanzanite; the curation includes pendants, neckwear, earrings, and bracelets. The versatile range of stunning pieces, priced from USD 300 onwards, caters to all generations and forms of love, including friendship, self-love, and family.

In the gifting season, consumer spending is expected to reach a record high of USD 25.9 billion. Tanishq is dedicated to delivering exceptional gifting experiences to its customers. With its innovative and seamless online and in-store services, the brand is poised to meet the ever-evolving needs of consumers.

Aditya Kejriwal, Marketing Head, International Business at Titan Company said, "We are excited to showcase jewelry from our latest curation of 'Shaped by Love' in our store in New Jersey. This embodies Tanishq's commitment to providing the finest jewelry, expertly crafted using the latest jewelry making techniques. Our aim is to celebrate love this gifting season and embrace the diversity of love in all its forms, offering unique and thoughtful gifting options for self and others, and to meet the evolving jewelry needs of the consumers."

The two-story, 3750 square foot Tanishq showroom located on Oak Tree Road in Iselin, New Jersey, opened its doors last month and offers over 6,500 unique designs in 18 and 22 karat gold and diamond jewelry, as well as solitaires and colored stones. During the grand opening, the store displayed its latest collections including "Color Me Joy," "Cocktail Jewelry Collection," "Romance of Polki," "Rhythms of Rain," "Moods of Earth," and "Alekhya."

Tanishq's new store in New Jersey has attracted customers from all over the East Coast, including far-flung locations such as Virginia, Maryland, Philadelphia, and Boston. Customers are impressed by the Signature Tanishq in-store experience and the exquisite jewelry on display. Tanishq also intends to expand its presence in the United States and Canada, with multiple cities being considered.

About Tanishq

Tanishq, India's most-loved jewelry brand from the Tata Group, has been synonymous with superior craftsmanship, exclusive designs, inimitable customer service, and guaranteed product quality for over two decades. At Tanishq, jewelry is not just a product, but a manifestation of artistry and our exquisite range of gold and diamond jewelry strikes the perfect balance between traditional charm and contemporary appeal. With designs that capture the beauty and celebration of special occasions, Tanishq aims to be an integral part of every woman's journey. Attesting to this commitment to excellence, in 2019, Tanishq has been awarded the title of 'The Most Trusted Jewelry Brand in India' by the Trust Research Advisory. Tanishq currently has a presence of 400+ stores and is India's most trusted jewelry brand with an extremely high brand recall.

Website: www.tanishq.co.in

Instagram and Facebook: tanishqusa

Contact Number: +1(848)999-2587

Store Address: Tanishq Showroom, 1429 Oak Tree Road, Iselin, New Jersey 08830

Media Contact:

Keeret Singh Heer

[email protected]

(917) 940-3294

Aditi Mallick

[email protected]

Saumya Bharadwaj

[email protected]

SOURCE Tanishq
Leading-edge sensors, integrated into TekTone's nurse call and emergency call products, offer a new level of visibility into residents' safety and behavior.

FRANKLIN, N.C. and TEL AVIV, Israel, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --TekTone, one of America's foremost manufacturers of nurse call systems and monitoring solutions for the healthcare, residential and commercial markets, has partnered with Vayyar, the global leader in 4D imaging radar.

By integrating Vayyars 4D imaging radar technology, TekTone will provide best-in-class fall detection with privacy by design (PRNewsfoto/Vayyar Care and Tektone)

TekTone will now provide touchless, fully automatic fall detection that works in all lighting conditions and even in the dense steam of a bathroom, where 80% of falls occur. Vayyar's imaging technology allows caregivers to see the human body without identifying the person, ensuring rapid response in all scenarios, while maintaining privacy at all times. This is a key consideration for care providers whose end users may be resistant to the installation of cameras in their living spaces.

The integrated solution minimizes the risk of "long lies" and their catastrophic impact on health and longevity by detecting falls when users cannot operate a traditional wall-mounted alarm system.

It also overcomes the limitations of wearables such as pendants, which many people forget or refuse to put on, and which trigger frequent false alerts when accidentally activated.

The solution also identifies "hidden" falls, relatively minor incidents which many older people and those with developmental disabilities fail to report. These falls often do not cause injury, but are the leading predictor of subsequent, more serious falls. Identifying "hidden" falls enables caregivers to make early interventions and prevent injurious falls that lead to hospitalization.

"TekTone is constantly raising the bar for senior care technology and integrating the Vayyar solution will allow us to provide unprecedented protection for older adults across the US," said Brad Hyder, Marketing Manager at TekTone. "The enhanced visibility we can now offer our customers will also be key to empowering frontline staff to deliver the very best in personalized care."

In addition to exceptionally accurate fall detection, Vayyar's cutting-edge sensors gather essential data on users' behavior, including time spent in room and in bed and bathroom visit frequency. Analyzing these patterns reveals issues such as reduced mobility and UTIs. Additionally, caregivers can monitor residents' level of social activity in order to predict and prevent mental conditions such as depression.

"Integrating our technology with TekTone's systems opens the door to a new era of data-driven care for hundreds of thousands of seniors," said Guy Meger, Head of Vayyar Care business unit. "Caregivers need a remote monitoring solution that reveals exactly what's going on with residents without intruding on their privacy as cameras or other optical systems would."

As the US senior living industry grapples with issues including a severe staffing crisis, TekTone and Vayyar are now initiating a process of market education to explain how fall verification and predictive care planning are key to easing the burden on frontline caregivers, reducing falls, improving resident health outcomes, and ensuring long-term profitability for operators.

About TekTone

For 50 years, TekTone has designed and manufactured UL Listed Tek-CARE nurse call, wireless nurse/emergency call, wander management, fall detection, Tek-SAFE area of rescue assistance systems, and Tek-ALERT integration systems. TekTone products are designed and built in our FDA-registered, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in North Carolina - plus a network of distributors and representatives that stretches worldwide.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Brad Hyder

Marketing Manager

[email protected]

800-327-8466

About Vayyar Care

Vayyar Care's touchless 4D imaging radar gathers the data caregivers need to protect residents, as well as their dignity, privacy, and independence. The solution delivers instant fall detection and 24/7 visibility on room presence, mobility, time at rest, bathroom visits and more, overcoming the limitations of standard technologies. Vayyar Care is interoperable with any nurse call system and care platform, enabling person-centered, predictive care that enhances outcomes and staff efficiency.

vayyar.com/care/b2b

Contact:

Yehuda Ordower

Business Development Executive

[email protected]

+14166979137

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2009881/TeckTone_Assets4.jpg

SOURCE Vayyar Care and Tektone
Rebranding reflects a bigger, stronger, more comprehensive footprint of an IoT leader in telematics/ asset tracking, EVs, smart utilities, smart cities, security/ surveillance, healthcare and enterprise

IRVINE, Calif. and BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Telit Cinterion, a global enabler of the intelligent edge, today announced the completion of its global rebranding effort emphasizing the company's established and rapidly expanding position in the IoT marketplace. Following on the heels of Telit Cinterion's debut earlier this year, the brand unveiling at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona exemplifies the company's end-to-end IoT offering serving the world's largest enterprises, OEMs, system integrators and service providers. For more information, please visit https://www.telit.com/telitcinterion/.

Telit Cinterion's new branding encapsulates the company's vision of enabling a new era of hyper-connectivity, where everything is seamlessly and securely networked, with full orchestration of edge and cloud data. Harnessing invisible intelligence, Telit Cinterion maps data points spanning numerous industries including transportation, education, medicine, energy, and security  to solve business problems efficiently and securely.

"The technology solution marketplace can be highly complex for a business looking for a partner. The Telit Cinterion brand is meant to break through the noise with our role as a robust end-to-end solution  from connectivity to the device  with specific capabilities for a variety of use cases and verticals," said Paolo Dal Pino, CEO, Telit Cinterion. "While this rebrand showcases our trailblazing, outside-the-box boldness with innovation, security and customer passion, it is proven results  our demonstrated growth in the market, enhanced product offerings and world-class team  which give us a competitive advantage."

Visit Telit Cinterion at Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2023 in Hall 5, Stand 5A32 to learn more.

About Telit Cinterion

Telit Cinterion is a global enabler of the intelligent edge providing complete solutions that reduce time to market and costs, delivering custom designed, ready for market connected devices in addition to maintaining the industry's broadest portfolio of enterprise-grade wireless communication and positioning modules, cellular MVNO connectivity plans and management services, edge-cloud software and data orchestration, and IoT and Industrial IoT platforms. As the largest western provider pioneering IoT innovation, Telit Cinterion delivers award-winning and highly secure IoT solutions, modules and services for the industry's top brands.

For more information, follow us on YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook or visit Telit.com.

Copyright  2023 Telit IoT Solutions Holding Ltd. and/or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. Telit Cinterion, Telit, OneEdge, Cinterion, and all associated logos are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Telit Communications S.p.A, Telit Communications LTD, Telit IoT Solutions Holding Ltd. and/or their affiliated companies in the United States and/or other countries. Other names used herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Media Contacts

Leslie Hart

Telit Cinterion

+1 919-415-1510

[email protected]

Lora Wilson

Valerie Christopherson

GRC for Telit Cinterion

+1 949-608-0276

[email protected]

SOURCE Telit Cinterion
Willful and malicious conspiracy found by Houston-area jury

RICHMOND, Texas, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A unanimous Fort Bend County jury late Wednesday found that prominent Odessa businessman Toby Eoff willfully and maliciously conspired with other former employees of DistributionNOW (DNOW) to steal the energy sector giant's trade secrets.

The verdict included a finding that Mr. Eoff breached his fiduciary duty to Houston-based DNOW when he conspired with the others to cripple Odessa Pumps, a business his family had started 40 years ago and subsequently sold to DNOW, a leading global supplier of energy and industrial products.

Mr. Eoff, described in testimony as the ringleader of the conspiracy, sold his family business to AZA's client DNOW for $170 million in 2015. He continued to run Odessa Pumps after the sale and was promoted within DNOW before retiring from the company.

According to the lawsuit, Mr. Eoff helped establish a competing company called Permian Pump & Valve after his retirement and conspired with other former DNOW employees to steal DNOW trade secrets and systematically poach employees to help Permian Pump & Valve. Jurors heard how Mr. Eoff hoped to cripple Odessa Pumps and sell his new company to DNOW or, alternatively, buy back the crippled Odessa Pumps for himself.

In testimony starting in November, jurors in 434th District Judge J. Christian Becerra's court reviewed 32 boxes of evidence. The jury heard testimony describing how the former employee defendants emailed themselves DNOW documents, drawings and spreadsheets, and even discussed in writing what they wanted to steal and had stolen and how they planned to go after other employees.

Jurors deliberated two and a half days before returning the nearly $9 million verdict for DNOW, including punitive damages and attorneys' fees, some of which will be awarded if the case is appealed.

The verdict included a finding that Mr. Eoff along with former DNOW employees Russell Dauphin, Jake Lewallen, Brian Madison, Michael Wheeler, Justin Coe, and Bo Young conspired to damage DNOW, and that the acts were of willful and malicious intent triggering punitive damages awards rendered against several of the defendants individually. The jury also found that Messrs. Eoff, Dauphin, Madison, and Wheeler breached the fiduciary duty they owed to DNOW.

In closing arguments, John Zavitsanos, co-founder of AZA and the lead lawyer in the case, told jurors they are the conscience of the community, and that the blatant, malicious thefts should not go unpunished. "These men were after DNOW. They were out to destroy Odessa Pumps. What we are doing here is trying to prevent other companies from thinking this is OK and trying to prevent these guys from doing it again," he said.

Mr. Zavitsanos tried the case with AZA partner Jason McManis and associates Louis Liao and Michael Gorrell. Co-counsel included S. Scott West and Maddison M. West from The West Law Firm; Christopher E. Moore from Ogletree Deakins; and attorney Richard L. Tate.

The case is DNOW LLP v. Toby Eoff et al. Case number 22-DCV-294327 in Fort Bend County's 434th District Court.

AZA, or Ahmad, Zavitsanos & Mensing, is a Houston-based law firm that is home to true courtroom lawyers with a formidable track record in complex commercial litigation, including energy, healthcare, intellectual property, and business dispute cases. AZA is recognized by Chambers USA 2022 among the best in Texas commercial law and intellectual property; by U.S. News  Best Lawyers' Best Law Firms as one of the country's best commercial litigation firms for 11 years running; has been named Litigation Department of the Year by Texas Lawyer three times including for 2021; and was previously dubbed by Law360 a Texas Powerhouse law firm.

Media Contact:

Mary Flood

713-857-6560

[email protected]

SOURCE AZA, or Ahmad, Zavitsanos & Mensing
NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Global Mosaic Tile Market 2023-2027

The analyst has been monitoring the mosaic tile market and is forecast to grow by $8137.66 mn during 2022-2027, accelerating at a CAGR of 6.05% during the forecast period. Our report on the mosaic tile market provides a holistic analysis, market size and forecast, trends, growth drivers, and challenges, as well as vendor analysis covering around 25 vendors.

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06187735/?utm_source=PRN

The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. The market is driven by growing demand from emerging economies, the booming flooring industry, and the increasing adoption of mosaic tiles in residential and commercial dcor.

The mosaic tile market is segmented as below:

By End-user

Non-residential

Residential

By Type

Mosaic floor tiles

Mosaic wall tiles

Others

By Geography

APAC

North America

Europe

South America

Middle East and Africa

This study identifies the introduction of 3D tiles as one of the prime reasons driving the mosaic tile market growth during the next few years. Also, increased investment in the development of infrastructure and increased expenditure on r and d for environment-friendly products will lead to sizable demand in the market.

The analyst presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources by an analysis of key parameters. Our report on the mosaic tile market covers the following areas:

Mosaic tile market sizing

Mosaic tile market forecast

Mosaic tile market industry analysis

This robust vendor analysis is designed to help clients improve their market position, and in line with this, this report provides a detailed analysis of several leading mosaic tile market vendors that include ABK Group Industrie Ceramiche Spa, Casalgrande Padana Spa, Ceramiche Atlas Concorde Spa, CERAMICHE CAESAR Spa, Cooperativa Ceramica dImola SC, FLORIM S.P.A. SB, GranitiFiandre Spa, Grupo Lamosa SAB de CV, Guangdong Jiamei Ceramics Co. Ltd., Hangzhou Nobel Ceramics Co. Ltd., INDUSTRIE CERAMICHE PIEMME Spa, Interceramic Inc., Kajaria Ceramics Ltd., Mohawk Industries Inc., Pamesa Ceramica Compactto SLU, Panariagroup Industrie Ceramiche S.p.A., PBG S.A., RAK Ceramics PJSC, SCG Ceramics Public Co. Ltd., and Victoria Plc. Also, the mosaic tile market analysis report includes information on upcoming trends and challenges that will influence market growth. This is to help companies strategize and leverage all forthcoming growth opportunities.

The study was conducted using an objective combination of primary and secondary information including inputs from key participants in the industry. The report contains a comprehensive market and vendor landscape in addition to an analysis of the key vendors.

The analyst presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources by an analysis of key parameters such as profit, pricing, competition, and promotions. It presents various market facets by identifying the key industry influencers. The data presented is comprehensive, reliable, and a result of extensive research - both primary and secondary. Technavio's market research reports provide a complete competitive landscape and an in-depth vendor selection methodology and analysis using qualitative and quantitative research to forecast the accurate market growth.

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06187735/?utm_source=PRN

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.

Contact Clare: [email protected]

US: (339)-368-6001

Intl: +1 339-368-6001

SOURCE Reportlinker
When an organization's workforce is not reflective of the community it serves, it may risk losing the opportunity to hire great employees or tap into new or growing local and global markets

TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Although Black History Month is drawing to a close, it is important to remember that the minority experience is not a monolith. The barriers that Black professionals encounter are not limited to the same barriers as their colleagues. To offer an in-depth, data-backed look into the unique Black experience in the technology industry and to support organizations seeking to improve their intentional DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives, Info-Tech Research Group has published its highly anticipated report, The State of Black Professionals in Tech.

Various barriers increase the likelihood for Black professionals to focus on the lower end of Maslows hierarchy of needs, most notably microaggressions and racism. However, there are also solutions that, when layered, can support Black professionals in moving up the needs hierarchy, including remote work, career development, DEI programs, mentorship and sponsorship, diverse leadership, and self-employment. These actions can help Black professionals achieve much needed job satisfaction. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group)

"Diversity in tech is not a new topic, and it's not a secret that technology organizations struggle to attract and retain Black employees," share Info-Tech research directors and leads on the report, Allison Straker and Ugbad Farah. "Current events have once again brought diversity to the forefront for many organizations. The pandemic, along with preparations for a recession and talent trends such as 'the great resignation' and 'quiet quitting' have not only impacted diversity at large, but also Black professionals in technology."

While there are a variety of diversity dimensions, the new report emphasizes the importance of understanding what makes up a "multicultural workforce," as there is more to diversity than gender, race, and ethnicity. Organizations need to understand that there is diversity within these groups and that Black professionals have their own unique experience when it comes to entering and navigating the tech industry.

Over 600 individuals were surveyed for the report, the majority of which indicated they were born or are living in the US, Canada, India, Nigeria, or the United Kingdom. Follow-up interviews provided additional insights on the data collected.

The respondents identified several overarching themes and shared experiences when examining the experience of Black professionals in the tech industry. The key themes revealed by the research are as follows:

Black professionals feel unsatisfied  Only 23% of Black respondents reported feeling very satisfied in their current role, compared to 34% of all other professionals.

 Only 23% of Black respondents reported feeling very satisfied in their current role, compared to 34% of all other professionals. Barriers to career advancement are more likely for Black professionals  54% of Black respondents reported facing microaggressions in the workplace, followed by 50% reporting racism, 39% reporting gender-based bias, 18% reporting accessibility issues, 13% reporting religion bias, and 14% reporting other discrimination.

 54% of Black respondents reported facing microaggressions in the workplace, followed by 50% reporting racism, 39% reporting gender-based bias, 18% reporting accessibility issues, 13% reporting religion bias, and 14% reporting other discrimination. It takes Black professionals longer to find technology jobs  29% of Black respondents said it took seven months or longer to find their tech job, compared to 19% of all other professionals.

 29% of Black respondents said it took seven months or longer to find their tech job, compared to 19% of all other professionals. Advancement opportunities are more difficult to achieve for Black professionals  Black respondents were 55% more likely to report that they had no career advancement or promotion opportunities in their career than all other professionals.

 Black respondents were 55% more likely to report that they had no career advancement or promotion opportunities in their career than all other professionals. Many Black professionals feel unable to be their authentic selves  Only 75% of Black respondents reported feeling able to be their authentic selves at work, compared to 86% of all other professionals.

Info-Tech's report highlights good news: there are various actions organizations can take to help address these barriers. One particularly notable takeaway from the firm's research is that Black professionals reported that working from home or remotely has reduced the impact of racial incidents in the workplace, leading to improved mood and sense of safety. Remote work also led to feelings of opportunities for career advancement, an important consideration when many Black professionals report challenges in achieving career advancement or promotions.

Research participants were also asked to distribute points across five potential solutions that could lead to improved job satisfaction. The findings showed that there were common solutions that could be leveraged to support the rectification of the identified issues. These solutions, ranked in order of importance, include:

Mentorship/sponsorship  While mentorship and sponsorship opportunities are important for all employees, they are especially helpful in closing the job satisfaction gap for Black IT professionals. The percentage of satisfied Black employees almost doubles when they have a mentor or sponsorship, moving the satisfaction rate to closer to all other colleagues. Training  Much like mentorship and sponsorship, training is universally beneficial for all employees but was ranked as highly important by Black respondents. Employee resource groups (ERGs)  ERGs enable employees to connect in their workplace based on shared characteristics or life experiences and generally focus on providing support, enhancing career development, and contributing to personal development in the work environment. Some ERGs provide advice to the organization on how they can support their diverse employees. ERGs were rated significantly higher for Black professionals compared to all other professionals. Internal discussions around diversity  Discussions around diversity were ranked higher by other professionals compared to their Black colleagues. This may be because other groups feel a need to learn more about diversity, whereas Black professionals live this experience on a day-to-day basis, so it is not as critical for them. External acknowledgment  External acknowledgment was ranked similarly between both Black respondents and all other professionals.

"The report acknowledges that resolving the barriers that Black employees often face is not easy," continue Straker and Farah. "Although senior executives are recognizing that a diverse set of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds is crucial to fostering innovation and competing on the global stage, organizations often don't take the extra step to actively look for racialized talent. Leaders should look at a variety of solutions that can be implemented within the organization, keeping in mind that the experiences of each demographic vary."

In the report, the firm reminds organizational leaders that when implementing measures to support Black professionals within an organization, it is critical to ensure they are not put in place as Band-Aid solutions but are carefully thought-out and layered.

For the full scope of insights, areas of opportunity, and suggested solutions in combatting the unique barriers Black professionals face in the technology industry and workplace, download and read the complete The State of Black Professionals in Tech report.

To learn more about Info-Tech Research Group, visit infotech.com and connect via LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading information technology research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT professionals. The company produces unbiased and highly relevant research to help CIOs and IT leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For 25 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with IT teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and over 200 IT and Industry analysts through the ITRG Media Insiders Program. To gain access, contact [email protected].

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Three Days: Structured Energy/Power Transactions, Real Options, Retail Electricity Deals and How to Trade Around Energy Assets" training has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This seminar is designed for regulated and deregulated energy managers, structuring professionals, and anyone else who wants to gain a better understanding of the concepts, methods, and tools energy managers use to structure and price profitable energy/power agreements; how to monetize energy & electric power assets; structure retail power transactions; and increase profits.

This program covers a wide range of energy and power transactions and assets illustrating common principles used across the energy industry. Many powerful energy/power structuring and asset trading techniques are explored, with examples of how these techniques can be applied to many real-world energy transactions and assets.

This course also addresses retail electricity pricing structures, RFP proposals, full requirements contract structures, the issues faced by providers of last resort, switching/migration risk, power purchase agreements and a number of other topics.

This course is unique in that it addresses both the deterministic intrinsic value and the hidden "insurance extrinsic value" associated with complex agreement structures, energy assets and other opportunities.

Who Should Attend:

Among those who will benefit from this seminar include energy and electric power executives; attorneys; government regulators; traders & trading support staff; marketing, sales, purchasing & risk management personnel; accountants & auditors; plant operators; engineers; and corporate planners.

Types of companies that typically attend this program include energy producers and marketers; utilities; banks & financial houses; industrial companies; accounting, consulting & law firms; municipal utilities; government regulators and electric generators.

What You Will Learn

Financial engineering and stochastic methods and the statistics of structuring

The economics of electric power generation and how to make money trading between next-day vs. real-time electricity prices.

How to trade around, hedge, and monetize natural gas, petroleum and electric power storage, processing, and transmission assets.

Surprisingly effective natural gas structured transactions that lock in profits and value.

How and why many energy/power market participants "leave money on the table" by undervaluing energy options.

How to calculate risk in structured energy products.

How to increase asset value and build the business case for electric batteries, renewables and other distributed energy resources.

The Intrinsic and Extrinsic "Option Value" of energy & electric power assets

How to trade around storage, transportation, btu and electric generation assets.

How to structure cross-commodity structured transactions.

Real Options, Insurance Value and Trading Around a Hedged Asset.

The structure of forward tolling, and reverse tolling arrangements -- and what to watch out for

The statistics of energy transactions, and how to value opportunities and manage risk.

How structured financial transactions can mimic physical energy and electric power assets.

How to structure retail energy supply obligations and community choice aggregation deals.

And much more!

Key Topics Covered:

DAY 1: FOUNDATIONS OF STRUCTURING

Continental Breakfast opens at 7:45 am

8:00 AM DERIVATIVES REVIEW

Swaps, Futures, Options, etc.

Structured Contracts - What they are and how they differ from plain vanilla derivatives

Deal Capture and Compliance issues with derivatives and structured transactions

Regulatory Issues, ISDA, EEI, FAS133, Dodd Frank

Financing needed for these kinds of transactions - Margining, Counterparty credit, etca -

9:30 AM FINANCIAL ENGINEERING AND STOCHASTIC METHODS

Statistics of Structuring

Closed Form and Numeric Pricing Models, Black Scholes, Monte Carlo , Binomial Trees

, Binomial Trees Volatility and Forecasting

General Stochastic Price Models

10:30 FUNDAMENTALS OF HEDGING

The Greeks

Delta Hedge, Dynamic Hedge, Gamma Hedge

Fundamental Charting - Payoff Diagrams and Portfolio VaR

1:00 PM RISK IN STRUCTURED PRODUCTS

Risk Analytics and Strategy Tools

Calculating Component Risk, Volatility, Correlation and Portfolio Value

Measuring Risk in Transactions and Extreme Value Risk

VaR - How it's Calculated and Generalized to Strategy Models

Risk Adjusted Return on Capital (RAROC) and other Efficiency Frontier Concepts

2:30 PM REAL OPTIONS AND INSURANCE VALUE EXAMPLE

Tolling Contracts

The structure of forward tolling, and reverse tolling arrangements -- and what to watch out for

A review of an actual tolling-type agreement "term sheet"

How tolling arrangements can be used to buy coal and sell natural gas by "wire".

CLASS ENDS 4:00 p.m.

DAY 2: OVERVIEW OF STRUCTURED TRANSACTIONS

Continental Breakfast opens at 7:45 a.m.

8:00 AM OVERVIEW OF STRUCTURED TRANSACTIONS

Heat Rates and How they are Hedged

Converting Coal, Oil and Natural Gas to Equivalent Electric Power Prices

Spark Spreads and Market Implied Heat Rates, Spot and Forward Spark Spreads

The Basics of Spread Trading using a Spark Spread

9:00 AM STRUCTURING STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION AND COMMODITY SPREADS

Time Spreads (Storage)

Locational Spreads (Transportation)

BTU Commodity Spreads (Generation)

10:30 AM STRUCTURING RENEWABLE, ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND OTHER DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCES

Building the Business Case for Electricity Storage - An example of optionality

Renewable Portfolio Standards and Wind Energy and Photovoltaic

Cost-Effectiveness Calculations of Energy Efficiency

1:00 PM STRUCTURED NATURAL GAS AND PETROLEUM TRANSACTIONS

Hedging Firm Transportation

Selling Physical Swing Options to End-Users

Trading Physical in One Location Priced at Index for Another Location

Buying Index with a Floor from a Seller

Paying a Premium Over Market and Making a Profit

Selling at a Discount to Market and Making a Profit

1:30 PM RETAIL ELECTRIC STRUCTURING

Power Purchase Agreements

The role of aggregators, Community Choice Aggregators and Micro-Grids

Rate Design, Fixed and Variable Costs, Adders

Contractual Issues

Mitigating Risks to Value

Different power products/structures (7x8, 2x16)

2:30 PM INTERMITTENT RENEWABLE/DEFAULT SERVICE/PROVIDER OF LAST RESORT/FULL REQUIREMENTS

Pricing the RFP

Wholesale Portfolios and Bidding

Managing Intermittent Renewable Risk

Managing Switching/Migration Risk

Managing "Full Requirement" Load Shape Risk

CLASS ENDS 4:00 p.m.

DAY 3: STRUCTURED POWER GENERATION TRANSACTIONS

Continental Breakfast opens at 7:45 a.m.

8:00 AM THE ECONOMICS OF POWER GENERATION

Term Trading and Load Obligation

Intra-Month Balancing

Next-day, Real-Time Balancing, Scheduling and Settlements

Hedging & Monetizing Generation Assets

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Valuation of Electric Generation Assets

9:30 AM FINANCIAL CONTRACTS THAT MIMIC PHYSICAL ASSETS

Cross Commodity Energy Swaps

Spark Spread Options

Heat Rate Call Options

Heat Rate Linked Power Contacts

10:30 AM POWER GENERATOR OPTIONALITY

Owning a physical generation asset

Owning a Spark Spread Call Option

Owning a Heat Rate Call Option

Controlling a generating asset through a tolling arrangement

Using a heat-rate-linked power transaction

CLASS ENDS AT NOON

Speakers:



Kenneth Skinner

VP and Chief Operating Officer

Integral Analytics



Kenneth Skinner, Ph.D. is Vice President of Risk & Evaluation Products for Integral Analytics, an analytical software and management consulting firm focused on operational, planning, and market research solutions. Dr. Skinner has over 20 years' experience in evaluation and risk measurement, having worked as an energy consultant with PHB Hagler Bailly and Financial Times (FT) Energy, and as the Derivative Structuring Manager for the retail energy supplier Sempra Energy Solutions. He has his Ph.D. from Colorado School of Mines, in Mineral Economics, with an emphasis in Operations Research, an MBA from Regis University and his BS in Engineering from Letourneau University.



Dr. Skinner is a nationally recognized expert in economic evaluation and modeling of energy assets including energy storage, distribution and generation, efficiency and demand response, renewable energy alternatives, financial derivatives and structured contracts using net present value, econometric and statistical methods, optimization principles, and real option valuation techniques.

Dr. Skinner is currently the technology columnist for Wiley Natural Gas and Electricity Journal and is a noted speaker on energy related topics for organizations such as AESP, IAEE, ACEEE, PLMA, IEPEC, INFORMS, Infocast, EUCI, SNL Energy and PGS Energy Training.



For more information about this training visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hfgjoy

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

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SOURCE Research and Markets
Experienced lawyer Tim Holland teaches attorneys how to maximize value in slip and fall and premises liability cases in nationwide webinar

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tim Holland of Slip and Fall Lawyer Help recently taught lawyers throughout the country on how to win premises liability, slip and fall, and trip and fall cases. Tim was the featured speaker on a national Webinar sponsored by SeminarWeb and the Michigan Association for Justice on Thursday, February 23, 2023.

Tim Holland is arguably one of Michigan's most successful and experienced premises liability attorneys. He has litigated more than 200 slip and fall, trip and fall, and premises liability cases throughout the state of Michigan. He has argued and won important premises liability cases in the Michigan appellate courts and taught a class on premises liability at Davenport University. He has taught national webinars to lawyers all over the country on how to win slip and fall and premises liability cases.

In his presentation, "Maximizing Value in Difficult Premises Cases," Tim taught lawyers how to identify viable premises liability cases and maximize the value of settlements and trial verdicts, incorporating tips for strategies to demonstrate liability and neutralize defenses. Attorneys from around the country attended this educational event.

"Premises liability and slip and fall cases are not impossible to win in Michigan," said Holland, "but they are difficult, and they are always aggressively defended. Property owners have learned it is often easier to refuse to take responsibility even when their negligence causes real harm and injury to innocent people. That's why it's essential that lawyers understand how to help slip and fall injury victims. The seminar focused on how to approach these cases from sign-up to investigation to settlements and trial."

Tim is committed to holding negligent and careless property owners accountable when innocent people are hurt.

Visit the Slip and Fall Lawyer Help website to find out how Tim Holland can help you after a slip and fall or a trip and fall injury.

Michigan Slip and Fall Lawyer Help is the state's only law firm specializing exclusively in premises liability, slip and fall, and trip and fall accident cases, helping people throughout the state. For more information on Michigan Slip and Fall Lawyer Help click here or visit https://slipandfalllawyerhelp.com/

CONTACT:

David Stoyka

[email protected]

SOURCE Slip and Fall Lawyer Help
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzoyan met with Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Geneva within the framework of the high-level meeting of the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council.

The foreign ministers discussed issues related to bilateral and multilateral partnership, the Armenian foreign ministry said in a read-out. Both sides were pleased to note the high level political dialogue between Armenia and Iran.

Joint actions for the further development of cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including in the sectors of energy, transport and infrastructures were highlighted.

Ideas were exchanged around issues of security and stability in the region.

Speaking about the grave humanitarian situation resulting from the blockade of Lachin corridor, FM Ararat Mirzoyan stressed that it is imperative that Azerbaijan immediately stops the blockade of Nagorno Karabakh without preconditions in accordance with the terms of the 9 November 2020 trilateral statement.

The implementation of the ICJ ruling was also underscored.

FM Mirzoyan presented the latest developments in the Armenia-Azerbaijan settlement process.

The United Nations highest court  the International Court of Justice (ICJ) - ordered Azerbaijan on February 22 to take all steps at its disposal to ensure unimpeded movement of persons, vehicles and cargo along the Lachin Corridor in both directions. The Lachin Corridor is blocked by Azerbaijan since 12 December 2022. Azerbaijan hasnt yet complied with the order.
CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Titan International, Inc. (NYSE: TWI) and United Steelworkers (USW) today called for restrictions on downstream products made from Russian petroleum inputs, citing in particular concerns over imports of off-the-road (OTR) tires from India.

United Steelworkers Logo

Paul Reitz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Titan International, stated, "Imports of Indian OTR tires increased by close to 38% in 2022 compared to 2021. India was not among the nations to ban imports of Russian oil products, including the production of the by-product, carbon black, which is a key ingredient the production of OTR tries. It is vital to our industry that we intensify our efforts to bring light to and close loopholes in the issued sanctions to Russia."

Titan and the USW sent the following joint letter to the White House:

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President,

We write on behalf of the domestic industry and its workers producing off-the-road tires (OTR tires) in the United States to alert you to serious concerns about imports of OTR tires from India that are undermining the integrity of our country's ban on imports of petroleum products from the Russian Federation. In order for these vitally important sanctions on Russian oil exports to have their intended effect, we urge you to take action to ensure that downstream products made in third countries from Russian petroleum products  such as OTR tires from India  are also subject to import restrictions.

As background, Titan International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of OTR tires and wheels, which are used on a wide variety of off-the-road equipment, including in agriculture, mining, construction, and industrial applications. Titan operates six manufacturing facilities in the United States, in Des Moines, IA, Freeport, IL, Quincy, IL, Bryan, OH, Union City, TN, and Saltville, VA. Titan's workers are represented by the United Steelworkers union (USW), which, as you are well aware, is the largest industrial union in North America. We believe a thriving domestic OTR tire industry is vital to our ability to equip America's farmers and miners, as well as to support much-needed infrastructure construction and industrial applications. During the pandemic, our industry was deemed an essential industry, and Titan made significant investments to remain in operation and keep its workers safe so it could continue to serve its customers.

Unfortunately, Titan and the USW have experienced firsthand the injury that unfair foreign trade practices cause to domestic producers and workers. Titan and the USW have fought together for fair trade for many years, and we currently are defending antidumping and countervailing duty orders on OTR tires from India that were imposed in 2017.

In the last year, we have faced a new threat from Indian producers: their ability to leverage access to cheap, sanctioned Russian petroleum products to drive down tire prices and propel injurious exports to the United States. One of the key inputs to the production of OTR tires is carbon black, which is produced by combusting petroleum products. Thus, a country that is able to access plentiful supplies of low-priced oil will have a significant advantage in the market for OTR tires.

While we commend the Administration for bringing many of our allies together to implement bans on imports of Russian oil products similar to the ban we imposed in March of 2022 in response to Russian aggression in Ukraine, we note that India has not joined these efforts. To the contrary, India, the third largest oil importer in the world, has surged into one of Russia's top export destinations for petroleum products.1 In 2022, Russia replaced Iraq as India's top source of oil imports, accounting for a quarter of India's total oil imports.2 By December of 2022, India was importing more than a million barrels a day from Russia, more than any other country (including China).3 Indeed, India's oil imports from Russia in December of 2022 were 33 times higher than they had been a year earlier.4

During the same period in which India has ramped up imports of cheap Russian oil, Indian exports of OTR tires to the United States have grown rapidly. Since the U.S. ban was imposed in March of 2022, average monthly U.S. imports of OTR tires from India have jumped by 37.6 percent compared to the same period in 2021.5 In short, access to plentiful quantities of low-priced Russian oil has artificially lowered the costs of production for our Indian competitors and spurred a harmful flood of OTR tire imports. In our view, this not only directly harms U.S. producers and workers in an essential domestic industry  India's practices also undermine our national security. India's Russian oil imports weaken the effectiveness of the oil import ban and help fund Russia's war against Ukraine.

For all of these reasons, we respectfully request that your Administration consider imposing import restrictions on downstream products made in third countries with Russian petroleum inputs. These restrictions will help level the playing field for domestic producers of such products and their workers, such as Titan and the USW. More importantly, such restrictions will strengthen the integrity of existing sanctions on Russia and ensure the U.S. does not become an unwitting target for oil-dependent foreign goods made in countries that refuse to join the United States in banning Russian oil exports.

We would be pleased to provide further information to your staff and meet with them at their convenience to discuss these important issues.

Sincerely,

______________________________

Paul G. Reitz

CEO & President

Titan International, Inc.

______________________________

Thomas M. Conway

International President

United Steelworkers

About Titan : Titan International, Inc. (NYSE: TWI) is a leading global manufacturer of off-highway wheels, tires, assemblies, and undercarriage products. Headquartered in West Chicago, Illinois, the company globally produces a broad range of products to meet the specifications of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and aftermarket customers in the agricultural, earthmoving/construction, and consumer markets. For more information, visit www.titan-intl.com.

1 See "India's Russian oil imports highest ever, makes up for 25% of all oil import," Hindustan Times (Jan. 15, 2023).

2 See id.

3 See Charles Kennedy, "India's Oil Imports From Russia Jump 33 Times To Record High," OilPrice.com (Jan. 16, 2023).

4 See id.

5 U.S. imports for consumption of OTR tires from India, comparing imports from April through December of 2022 to the same period in 2021 under HTS 4011.20.1025, 4011.20.1035, 4011.20.5030, 4011.20.5050, 4011.61.0000, 4011.62.0000, 4011.63.0000, 4011.69.0090, 4011.92.0000, 4011.93.4000, 4011.93.8000, 4011.94.4000, and 4011.94.8000.

SOURCE Titan International, Inc.
NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tradewind Finance today announced the successful completion of EUR 18 million in new funding for a silicon metal producer that is at the forefront of sustainable innovation in the industry. The firm's tailor-made financial solution, which includes credit protection, will deliver immediate working capital to the silicon maker to invest in their business and enable them to trade smoothly and securely.

In the arrangement, Tradewind is purchasing the receivables of the company and providing them with the bulk of the invoice amount upfront, removing any waiting period to receive payment that is common in today's commercial transactions.

As part of today's announcement, Tradewind continues their commitment to responsible funding for businesses that put a focus on sustainable practices and social good in their core structures. The firm's finance products are pivotal in unlocking capital for growth for their customers, who trade internationally and range in size from small to large.

"We are thrilled to partner with our client and support their success story where they take a leading role in cutting-edge silicon metal production. Our flexible solutions will help them fulfill their liquidity needs so they can continue to thrive," Rene Pastor, President of Global Commercial and CEO of the Americas at Tradewind, said about the new financing relationship.

"For a growing business, healthy cash flow is essential. Partnering with Tradewind has equipped us with an efficient source of capital to keep strengthening our company and remain a reliable silicon provider for our customers," the CFO of the silicon innovator said.

The injection of liquidity from Tradewind will assist the company in further propelling the global silicon metal industry, slated to reach USD 10.27 billion by 2029, on a sustainable path for the future.

About Tradewind Finance

Founded in 2000, Tradewind Finance maintains a network of offices all over the world, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, India, Pakistan, Peru, Turkey, UAE, and the USA as well as the headquarters in Germany. Combining financing, credit protection, and collections into a single suite of trade finance products, Tradewind brings streamlined, flexible, and best-in-class services to the world's exporters and importers.

CONTACT: [email protected]

SOURCE Tradewind Finance
BALTIMORE , Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Transamerica today announced the availability of new benefit riders with its employer-offered hospital indemnity insurance to help workers financially when they experience a hospital stay. The new riders expand the hospital indemnity options available to employers as they design the proper benefits for their employees.

"Hospital stays are not the same for everyone. Different circumstances call for different measures of care," said Phil Eckman, President of Workplace Solutions at Transamerica. "Hospital indemnity insurance from Transamerica offers a base benefit of a covered, daily in-hospital stay with the ability to add riders for other common treatments, improving employees' ability to financially overcome hospitalizations."

The base policy offers an inpatient benefit paid for each day the insured spends in the hospital. Employers may add riders to the base policy to build and customize a more comprehensive benefit combination to help keep employees financially secure. Transamerica offers a generous selection of contemporary riders with broader options for inpatient and outpatient care. Hospital indemnity insurance is especially valuable because it is delivered without pre-existing condition barriers and can provide access to benefits not covered through a major medical plan.

Some of the riders available to employers through Transamerica's hospital indemnity insurance include:

Newborn Child In-Hospital Indemnity Benefit Rider offers an additional benefit that helps with costs for the birth and expenses associated with a newborn's care. The rider can be configured to pay a daily benefit, a lump-sum benefit, or both for the birth in a hospital.

offers an additional benefit that helps with costs for the birth and expenses associated with a newborn's care. The rider can be configured to pay a daily benefit, a lump-sum benefit, or both for the birth in a hospital. Inpatient Mental and Nervous Disorder Indemnity Benefit Rider pays the daily benefit to the insured in an inpatient facility for a mental or nervous disorder.

pays the daily benefit to the insured in an inpatient facility for a mental or nervous disorder. Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Addiction Indemnity Benefit Rider pays a daily benefit for inpatient services treating alcohol or drug addiction.

pays a daily benefit for inpatient services treating alcohol or drug addiction. Rehabilitation Unit Confinement Benefit Rider provides additional benefits to help the insured get back on their feet in a rehabilitation unit. The benefit helps with recovery and return to work.

"Patient care needs are evolving. Consequently, so are an employer's needs for expanded benefits that protect their employees from the unexpected," said Mr. Eckman. "Transamerica invests continuously in improving our offerings and services to anticipate market demand for patient care needs. We continue to be strong allies in the workplace by providing innovative, forward-thinking solutions and customizable insurance products that allow exceptional accessibility and help employees be financially confident through life's events."

Demand is growing for hospital indemnity insurance offered through the workplace. According to a recent report from LIMRA, supplemental hospital indemnity insurance ranked highest in combined year-over-year growth for total employers and employee policies among other workplace supplemental insurances.

With 90 years of experience providing employee benefits, Transamerica is committed to helping employers offer more financial security to their employees. Transamerica Life Insurance Company underwrites the policies.

Employers may contact their financial professionals to learn more about Transamerica's suite of employee benefit solutions.

About Transamerica

With a history that dates back more than 100 years, Transamerica is a leading provider of life insurance, retirement, and investment solutions, serving millions of customers throughout the United States. Transamerica's dedicated professionals focus on helping people live well today and empowering them to create a better tomorrow through saving, investing, and protecting their loved ones. Transamerica serves nearly every customer segment, providing a broad range of quality individual life insurance policies, workplace supplemental insurance benefits, workplace retirement plans, individual retirement accounts and investment products including mutual funds, annuities, stable value solutions, as well as asset management services.

In 2021, Transamerica fulfilled its promises to customers, paying more than $52 billion in insurance, retirement, and annuity claims and benefits, including return of annuity premiums paid by the customer. Transamerica's head office is in Baltimore, Maryland, with other major operations in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Denver, Colorado. Transamerica is part of the Aegon group of companies. Each company of the Aegon group of companies is solely responsible for its own financial conditions and contractual obligations. Based in the Netherlands, Aegon is a diversified, international financial services group offering investment, protection, and retirement solutions. For the full year of 2021, Aegon managed over $1.1 trillion in revenue generating investments. For more information, visit www.transamerica.com.

About Transamerica Hospital Select Policies

This is a summary of Hospital Select II and Hospital Select III hospital indemnity insurance policy underwritten by Transamerica Life Insurance Company (TLIC), Cedar Rapids, IA. TLIC is not authorized to conduct business in New York. Policy Form Series TMHI1000-0118 and TCHI1000-0118. Forms and numbers may vary. Insurance may not be available in all jurisdictions. Limitations and exclusions apply. Refer to the policy, certificate, and riders for complete details.

Media inquiries:

Email: [email protected]

Hank Williams

(319) 355-7789

Julie Quinlan

(303) 383-5923

SOURCE Transamerica
Largest single infrastructure project in Kansas City history, delivered ahead of schedule and on budget, leaves legacy impact on the local workforce and small business community

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On February 28, first flights will depart from the new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport, marking the end of a five-year development, design, and construction effort and ushering in a new era of air travel in the region. The 1.1 million-square-foot, design-build project, developed by Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate and constructed by a joint venture team led by Clark Construction Group, and including The Weitz Company, and Clarkson Construction Company (CWC), was delivered ahead of schedule and on budget while providing a significant economic boon to the local community.

Credit: Jeff Roberts, JLR Photo

The new facility, which wholly replaces Kansas City's existing terminal buildings, features two levels, one for departures and one for arrivals, with clear wayfinding and sightlines, as well as an adjacent 6,200-space parking structure to provide a seamless transition from parking to gate. Designed with adaptability and expansion in mind, the terminal opens with 40 gates with the capability to expand to 50 gates in the future.

The Edgemoor/CWC team, along with the Kansas City Aviation Department, and project designer, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, prioritized community engagement from the project's outset, hosting hundreds of project presentations and dozens of community design workshops and open house sessions to inform the community about the project and solicit their input on the new terminal's design and amenities. The result is a modern, convenient, sustainable, and inclusive facility that is uniquely Kansas City and meets the diverse needs of travelers in the region.

"This project is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our project management team and trusted trade partners, as well as the ongoing support of the Kansas City community," said Mark Goodwin, vice president with Clark Construction and project director in charge of the new terminal's design and construction. "The input from the community, and meaningful contributions of hundreds of Kansas City-based firms, helped ensure the project will have a lasting positive impact on residents, and on the business community."

Thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of all travelers, the new terminal's inclusive features include the Kansas City Air Travel Experience  an airplane simulation room for anxious, first-time travelers or individuals with a fear of flying  a sensory room, quiet room, indoor and outdoor pet relief areas, the Variety KC Inclusive Family Play Zone, and glass boarding bridges to increase natural light, views of the airfield, and reduce flight anxiety. The new facility also boasts three times as many toilet fixtures post-security as the current terminals, with options including gender-neutral restrooms and family restrooms with adult changing tables.

Designed to showcase Kansas City's authentic culture and heart, the terminal features nearly 50 local and global eating and shopping experiences with 80% of the brands represented from the Kansas City region. The facility also features $5.6 million of newly commissioned art, showcased through 28 unique installations, 19 of which were created by artists who live in, or have ties to, the Kansas City area. The project is the largest One Percent for Art program in Kansas City history.

At $1.5B, the new terminal is the largest single infrastructure project in Kansas City history. More than 240 Kansas City-area firms contributed to the project, which generated over 6,500 design- and construction-related jobs. From the outset, Edgemoor/CWC committed to reaching transformative levels of participation from both minorities and women, spurring economic growth in the region. The team implemented a series of programs to remove barriers that typically impact disadvantaged businesses from securing contracts and developed a first-of-its-kind workforce training program to build capacity in the local construction market. The workforce training program created a pathway to careers in the construction trades for 200 men and women. Those individuals went on to work more than 200,000 hours on the new terminal, earning more than $6.5 million in wages and benefits.

"I am grateful for the partnership with Edgemoor/CWC, and for their commitment to finishing the job ahead of schedule and on budget," said Pat Klein, director of the Kansas City Aviation Department. "Despite the unforeseen challenges of a global pandemic and supply chain shortages, they delivered on their promises, both to the city and to our greater community. This is a truly transformational project, as was promised from the start."

Through Edgemoor/CWC's intentional procurement strategy, 133 minority- and women-owned Kansas City-based firms were awarded contracts on the project totaling more than $320 million. The team exceeded its project participation goals on every front, ultimately achieving 25.4% MBE and 18.7% WBE participation for construction services, and 20.5% MBE and 16.4% WBE participation for professional services. In 2020, Profiles in Diversity Journal ranked the new terminal project among its Top 10 Innovations in Diversity award winners for keeping diversity, inclusion, and human equity at the forefront.

In addition to meeting the city's goals for accessibility, inclusivity, and diverse participation, the new terminal is also among the most sustainable airport facilities in the nation. The project recently achieved LEED Gold certification, making it the first LEED v4 Gold BD+C: NC terminal/concourse project in the Midwest, and the second in the nation. Sustainable features include locally sourced materials, electric charging stations for personal and commercial vehicles, smart building systems, efficient lighting, and improved air quality.

"Throughout this project, we've focused on investing in the economic growth of women- and minority-owned businesses, while providing a state-of-the-art new terminal that will redefine standards for air travel," said Geoff Stricker, Edgemoor senior managing director. "Kansas City is experiencing an exciting period of growth. We are honored to have delivered this transformative project to meet the evolving needs of the region."

Learn more about the New Terminal Project at BuildKCI.com or tour the facility virtually here .

About Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate

As a leader in the development, financing, leasing, operations, and activation of public buildings, infrastructure, and commercial real estate, Edgemoor has delivered (or has under development) more than $4.5 billion in public-private partnerships. Edgemoor was recently honored as P3 Bulletin's Developer of the Year. For more information, visit edgemoor.com .

About Clark | Weitz | Clarkson

Clark | Weitz | Clarkson (CWC) is a joint venture comprised of Clark Construction Group, The Weitz Company, and Clarkson Construction Company. CWC was responsible for leading design and construction efforts on the new terminal project. The team boasts a combined 400 years of construction experience and has successfully delivered complex airport projects across the country. For more information, visit cwcjv.com .

About Clark Construction Group

Clark Construction Group is one of the nation's most experienced and respected providers of construction services. American-owned and operated since 1906, Clark is consistently ranked by leading industry organizations as one of the largest general building and civil construction companies with annual revenues of approximately $5 billion. The company's portfolio includes more than 40 major aviation projects at 18 major airports across the country. For more information, visit clarkconstruction.com .

About The Weitz Company



The Weitz Company, the sixth oldest A/E/C firm in the United States, has forged its reputation on constantly seeking new construction innovations and technologies that provide clients with predictable, reliable, and collaborative services. Weitz focuses on delivering value and eliminating waste during the construction process, building more than 525 projects since 1855. For more information, visit weitz.com .

About Clarkson Construction Company

Clarkson Construction Company is a leader in delivering innovative solutions to some of the biggest infrastructure projects in the Midwest. Proudly serving Kansas City since 1880, family-owned Clarkson is now in its sixth generation and continues to set the standard in highway construction, site development and grading, bridge construction, and concrete paving. For more information, visit clarksonconstruction.com .

Media Contact: Laurie Roberts

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SOURCE Clark | Weitz | Clarkson and Edgemoor Infrastructure & Real Estate
Results Include Copper Equivalent Grades Exceeding 14% Copper over Intersections of up to 7.3 Metres

VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Trilogy Metals Inc. (TSX: TMQ) (NYSE American: TMQ) ("Trilogy" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the third set of drilling results from the 2022 field season at the Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects ("UKMP") located in northwestern Alaska.

Figure 1. Location of Arctic drill holes from the UKMP drilling program. (CNW Group/Trilogy Metals Inc.) Figure 2. Cross section showing holes AR22-0209, AR22-0212, AR22-0218, AR22-0229 and AR22-0236. (CNW Group/Trilogy Metals Inc.) Figure 3. Cross section showing holes AR22-0202, AR22-0203 and AR22-0225. (CNW Group/Trilogy Metals Inc.) Figure 4. Cross section showing holes AR22-0219, AR22-0222, AR22-0223 and AR22-0228. (CNW Group/Trilogy Metals Inc.)

The UKMP includes the Arctic (volcanogenic massive sulphide, or "VMS") deposit ("Arctic"), the Bornite (carbonate-hosted copper, or "CHC") deposit ("Bornite"), and prospective mining claims in the surrounding area. The drill program was completed by Ambler Metals LLC ("Ambler Metals"), the joint venture operating company equally owned by Trilogy and a wholly-owned subsidiary of South32 Limited (ASX, LSE, JSE: S32; ADR: SOUHY) ("South32").

The 2022 field program included 10,738 meters of diamond drilling, of which 8,376 meters was drilled at Arctic, the most ever drilled at Arctic in a single field season, while the remainder of the meterage was used on regional exploration targets in the Ambler VMS Belt and near Bornite. The 2022 field program prioritized advancing Arctic with additional infill drilling to further improve the confidence in the mineral resource and for geotechnical studies to further de-risk the project.

The first and second sets of assay results from the 2022 drill program are available in Trilogy's news releases dated November 29, 2022 and January 25, 2023, posted on the Company's website at https://trilogymetals.com/news-and-media/news/ .

This release covers an additional 17 holes comprising 15 infill and two geotechnical. The infill holes were drilled in the eastern and northern parts of the deposit that will be mined early in the mine life, where previous drill holes were more widely spaced and the deposit less well defined (see Figure 1).

Drilling Highlights

Significant intersections of high-grade copper, zinc, lead, gold, and silver mineralization include:

Hole AR22-0198: 4.33 meters of 7.50% copper, 9.49% zinc, 1.58% lead, 3.38 g/t gold and 126.3 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 14.78%.





Hole AR22-0199: 4.80 meters of 5.52% copper, 3.66% zinc, 0.74% lead, 0.37 g/t gold and 77.4 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 8.04%.





Hole AR22-0202: 7.76 meters of 4.52% copper, 6.42% zinc, 1.39% lead, 0.60 g/t gold and 66.2 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 8.31%.





Hole AR22-0203: 7.41 meters of 2.90% copper, 6.06% zinc, 1.50% lead, 0.44 g/t gold and 68.2 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 6.51%

and,

6.77 meters of 2.43% copper, 5.35% zinc, 1.17% lead, 0.82 g/t gold and 50.6 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 5.75%.





Hole AR22-0209: 4.80 meters of 6.54% copper, 5.68% zinc, 0.69% lead, 0.79 g/t gold and 44.4 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 9.76%.





Hole AR22-0212: 7.28 meters of 8.56% copper, 9.59% zinc, 1.74% lead, 1.37 g/t gold and 111.0 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 14.52%.





Hole AR22-0218: 15.44 meters of 3.92% copper, 5.22% zinc, 0.97% lead, 1.35 g/t gold and 49.4 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 7.45%.





Hole AR22-0219: 7.40 meters of 2.65% copper, 3.87% zinc, 0.86% lead, 1.28 g/t gold and 37.4 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 5.50%.





Hole AR22-0223: 7.51 meters of 2.65% copper, 3.93% zinc, 0.92% lead, 0.67 g/t gold and 36.3 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 5.15%.





Hole AR22-0225: 6.18 meters of 1.48% copper, 1.77% zinc, 0.37% lead, 0.23 g/t gold and 576.3 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 7.58%.





Hole AR22-0229: 9.60 meters of 2.93% copper, 2.33% zinc, 0.26% lead, 0.49 g/t gold and 29.5 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 4.44%.





Hole AR22-0236: 16.09 meters of 3.34% copper, 3.37% zinc, 0.51% lead, 0.45 g/t gold and 40.1 g/t silver for a copper equivalent grade of 5.39%.

True widths have not been determined for the above intercepts but are thought to be 80% to 100% of actual drill thicknesses, except intercepts in hole AR22-0218 which are estimated at 78% of actual drill thickness.

Tony Giardini, President and CEO of Trilogy, commented, "These results serve to reinforce our conviction that the Arctic deposit stands out as one of the most exceptional polymetallic mineral projects worldwide in terms of grade. The latest infill and geotechnical holes continue to demonstrate very high grades of polymetallic metals over impressive widths in the shallowest parts of the deposit. I am looking forward to seeing the remaining assays from drill holes from the 2022 field season."

Richard Gosse, Vice President, Exploration at Trilogy, stated, "This third set of results from the 2022 drill program at Arctic continues to largely confirm the grades and thicknesses predicted by the resource model within the 2022 reserve pit design. The results indicate mineralization is very continuous, especially in Zone 5 which typically contains higher grades and most consistent thicknesses at Arctic."

Mineralized intervals of high-grade mineralization at a cut-off of 0.5% copper equivalent are reported in Table 1. The locations of the holes are shown in Figure 1 and Table 2. The drill holes are shown in cross sections in Figures 2, 3 and 4.

The drill results contained in this news release are from 17 drill holes from the 2022 Arctic drill program, which include 15 infill holes (AR22-0198, 0202, 0203, 0209, 0212, 0218, 0219, 0222, 0223, 0225, 0227, 0228, 0229, 0233 and 0236) and two geotechnical holes (AR22-0199 and 0235). All drill holes are sized HQ3 (63.5 mm diameter). The 2022 Arctic infill program was designed to increase confidence from Indicated to Measured in areas of the mineral resource block model that would be mined during the first years of production, with the highest estimated metal value, based on Trilogy's mine plan reflected in the 2023 Arctic feasibility study1 and the Arctic Project S-K Technical Report Summary with an effective date of November 30, 2022.

Geotechnical holes AR22-0199 and 0235 were drilled to further define the talc horizon in the eastern pit wall. Hole AR22-0235, 270 meters from the closest existing hole and outside the 2022 pit boundary, intersected a narrow zone of copper-zinc mineralization. The mineralization is thought to be an extension of Zones 1 or 5 that appear to merge into a single horizon in the northern part of the deposit. Additional drilling in this area is warranted.

Within the Arctic deposit, mineralization occurs as stratiform semi-massive sulphide to massive sulphide beds within primarily graphitic to chloritic schists and fine-grained quartz schists. Sulphide mineralogy is similar for all intercepts: chalcopyrite, sphalerite and galena.

_________ 1 Arctic Project, NI 43-101 Technical Report on Feasibility Study, Ambler Mining District, Alaska, with an effective date of January 20, 2023 and filed on February 14, 2023



Table 1. Drill intercepts from the 2022 Arctic infill drilling program.

Hole From

(m) To (m) Length

(m) Cu

(%) Zn

(%) Pb

(%) Au

(g/t) Ag

(g/t) CuEq

(%) Zone AR22-

0198 86.63 87.78 1.15 0.07 0.54 0.15 0.07 16.4 0.51 7 94.97 99.30 4.33 7.50 9.49 1.58 3.38 126.3 14.78 5 129.70 135.68 5.98 1.21 0.13 0.04 0.03 10.7 1.39 3 209.70 210.17 0.47 0.53 0.22 0.04 0.06 6.9 0.73 2.5 AR22-

0199 21.14 25.94 4.80 5.52 3.66 0.74 0.37 77.4 8.04 4 32.03 33.95 1.92 7.58 4.36 0.31 0.16 36.2 9.71 3 AR22-

0202 129.44 137.20 7.76 4.52 6.42 1.39 0.60 66.2 8.31 5 152.15 158.38 6.23 3.14 4.49 0.95 0.33 51.0 5.77 4 172.53 176.10 3.57 6.61 3.88 0.66 0.29 97.0 9.31 3 291.67 292.45 0.78 0.28 0.15 0.17 0.10 6.4 0.51 1 AR22-

0203 114.46 121.23 6.77 2.43 5.35 1.17 0.82 50.6 5.75 5 141.83 145.95 4.12 0.62 0.25 0.08 0.06 10.7 0.87 4 155.15 162.56 7.41 2.90 6.06 1.50 0.44 68.2 6.51 3 198.96 213.38 14.42 1.60 1.95 0.20 0.15 17.8 2.63 2.5 231.00 233.37 2.37 0.72 0.38 0.02 0.07 6.3 0.97 2 238.18 246.55 8.37 0.75 1.53 0.22 0.16 15.1 1.62 1 AR22-

0209 79.98 84.78 4.80 6.54 5.68 0.69 0.79 44.4 9.76 5 120.05 120.40 0.35 0.00 0.03 1.63 0.04 102.0 1.50 4 154.51 154.84 0.33 0.88 0.01 0.02 0.02 6.6 0.96 3 156.79 158.06 1.27 0.87 0.12 0.00 0.08 3.2 0.99 3 169.65 170.19 0.54 0.37 0.26 0.08 0.02 8.4 0.58 ? 218.20 218.85 0.65 0.30 1.01 0.28 0.11 15.5 0.98 2.5 221.30 221.89 0.59 0.46 0.29 0.05 0.06 6.1 0.67 2.5 AR22-

0212 78.13 85.41 7.28 8.56 9.59 1.74 1.37 111.0 14.52 5 113.84 115.36 1.52 0.19 0.07 0.00 0.01 361.0 3.47 3 AR22-

0218 44.87 47.12 2.25 0.47 0.60 0.07 0.07 7.5 0.82 7 54.82 70.26 15.44 3.92 5.22 0.97 1.35 49.4 7.45 5 AR22-

0219 35.66 43.06 7.40 2.65 3.87 0.86 1.28 37.4 5.50 5/1 AR22-

0222 32.16 34.25 2.09 0.93 1.11 0.58 0.41 23.1 2.00 5 38.37 40.95 2.58 0.25 0.08 5.80 2.12 108.8 4.53 1 AR22-

0223 40.51 48.02 7.51 2.65 3.93 0.92 0.67 36.3 5.15 5 AR22-

0225 127.80 133.98 6.18 1.48 1.77 0.37 0.23 576.3 7.58 5 148.78 153.80 5.02 3.59 5.25 1.05 0.26 64.1 6.61 4 158.86 161.65 2.79 0.73 0.10 0.01 0.01 2.4 0.80 3 164.79 165.15 0.36 2.55 1.46 0.26 0.20 28.7 3.56 3 168.53 171.00 2.47 4.64 13.16 1.61 0.20 104.4 11.07 3 AR22-

0227 26.62 29.11 2.49 6.05 10.23 2.75 2.62 102.0 13.29 5/1 AR22-

0228 43.28 53.20 9.92 1.27 3.01 1.20 0.68 40.6 3.57 5/1 AR22-

0229 96.94 98.54 1.60 0.33 0.49 0.05 0.17 6.0 0.69 7 110.49 120.09 9.60 2.93 2.33 0.26 0.49 29.5 4.44 5 169.15 177.39 8.24 1.34 0.47 0.02 0.11 8.0 1.66 3 194.03 195.99 1.96 0.99 0.46 0.04 0.13 6.3 1.31 ? 240.47 243.59 3.12 2.09 9.84 0.56 2.99 28.0 8.03 2.5 AR22-

0233 76.59 77.00 0.41 1.96 6.16 2.35 1.34 64.3 6.42 5 80.52 82.88 2.36 3.36 3.84 0.99 1.38 61.2 6.52 1 AR22-

0235 28.50 29.72 1.22 0.06 1.26 0.44 0.03 37.9 1.03 5/1 AR22-

0236 86.33 102.42 16.09 3.34 3.37 0.51 0.45 40.1 5.39 5 114.64 115.37 0.73 0.20 1.70 0.47 0.02 8.5 1.07 ? 132.40 138.09 5.69 0.60 0.03 0.02 0.01 3.4 0.66 4 158.11 158.53 0.42 0.52 0.01 0.00 0.01 1.1 0.54 3 166.91 168.70 1.79 0.50 0.01 0.00 0.01 1.0 0.52 3

Notes:

Copper equivalent (CuEq) calculations use metal prices assumptions of $3.00 /lb for copper, $1.10 /lb for zinc, $1.00 /lb for lead, $1,300 /oz for gold, and $18.00 /oz for silver with 100% metallurgical recoveries assumed for all metals.

/lb for copper, /lb for zinc, /lb for lead, /oz for gold, and /oz for silver with 100% metallurgical recoveries assumed for all metals. Results are core intervals and not true thickness; true widths have not been determined for the above intercepts but are thought to be greater than 80% of actual drill thicknesses except for hole AR22-0218 that are estimated to be 78% of the reported core interval.

Cut-off grade of 0.5% CuEq.

Maximum internal dilution of up to three consecutive meters of <0.5% CuEq.

Within mineralized zones the minimum sample length was 0.30 m , maximum sample length was 2.37 m , and the average sample length was 1.02 m .

, maximum sample length was , and the average sample length was . Core recovery averaged 88.8%.

Hole AR22-0223 recorded three intervals totalling 1.24 m of no recovery.

of no recovery. Hole AR22-0228 recorded three intervals totalling 4.26m of no recovery.

of no recovery. Some rounding errors may occur.

Figure 1. Location of Arctic drill holes from the UKMP drilling program.

Figure 2. Cross section showing holes AR22-0209, AR22-0212, AR22-0218, AR22-0229 and AR22-0236.

Figure 3. Cross section showing holes AR22-0202, AR22-0203 and AR22-0225.

Figure 4. Cross section showing holes AR22-0219, AR22-0222, AR22-0223 and AR22-0228.

Table 2. Drill hole locations at the Arctic Project.

Hole Easting Northing Elevation Azimuth Dip Length (m) AR22-0198 613467.6 7453129.2 980.4 35 -86 273.71 AR22-0199 613532.6 7453340.5 905.0 35 -70 164.90 AR22-0202 613403.7 7453249.1 974.4 38 -45 306.20 AR22-0203 613403.1 7453248.5 974.4 35 -80 284.38 AR22-0209 613476.1 7453048.3 976.6 35 -70 282.85 AR22-0212 613475.5 7453049.4 976.7 100 -50 285.90 AR22-0218 613570.8 7453099.9 981.4 355 -52 153.92 AR22-0219 612977.7 7453412.2 826.0 35 -70 66.14 AR22-0222 613025.5 7453474.0 841.9 35 -70 57.00 AR22-0223 613039.1 7453433.0 847.9 35 -70 66.14 AR22-0225 613424.0 7453220.0 975.9 40 45 191.11 AR22-0227 612991.5 7453510.0 830.4 35 70 35.20 AR22-0228 613102.0 7453502.8 872.5 35 -70 69.19 AR22-0229 613404.3 7452995.7 969.9 40 -65 314.86 AR22-0233 613133.7 7453415.6 893.5 35 -70 96.62 AR22-0235 613513.0 7453800.0 912.0 180 -60 165.05 AR22-0236 613472.4 7453014.8 977.0 155 -85 213.05

Coordinates are in UTM Zone 4N (meters) coordinate system, NAD83 Datum.

QA/QC Program

The drilling program, sampling and assaying protocol, and data verification were managed by qualified persons (QPs) employed by Ambler Metals. The diamond drill holes were completed using HQ3 diameter core, and recoveries averaged 88.8%. Drill core was cut lengthwise into halves using a diamond saw, with one-half used for the assay sample and the other half retained in core boxes and archived at site.

Samples were collected through mineralized zones using a 0.30 m minimum length and 2.37 m maximum length; average sample length is 1.02m. Weights of the drill core samples range from 0.34 to 10.18kg, depending on the size of core, rock type, and recovery.

Each core sample was placed into a bag with a numbered tag and quality control samples were inserted between core samples using the same numbering sequence. Then, samples were grouped into batches for shipping and laboratory submissions. Each batch of 20 samples contains quality control (QC) samples that comprise one certified reference material (CRM), one core blank (BLK), and one crushed or pulp duplicate (DUP). In addition, 1 field duplicate was taken within mineralized intervals for every 20 samples. Chain of custody records are maintained for sample shipments and the custody is transferred from Ambler Metals expeditor to the laboratory upon delivery.

Samples were shipped to ALS Minerals laboratory in Fairbanks, Alaska, USA, for sample submission. ALS Minerals Fairbanks is a satellite sample preparation facility accredited under ALS Minerals. The ALS Minerals Fairbanks shipped the samples to ALS Minerals in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada, for sample preparation and analysis. ALS Minerals North Vancouver is an independent laboratory certified under ISO 9001:2008 and accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2005 by the Standards Council of Canada. Selected sample batches were sent to ALS Minerals laboratory in Vientiane, Laos for fire assay. ALS Minerals includes its own internal quality control samples comprising certified reference materials, blanks, and pulp duplicates.

Drill core samples were weighed (WEI-21), dried if excessively wet (DRY-21), coarse jaw crushed to 70% passing 6 mm (CRU-21), fine jaw crushed to 70% passing 2 mm (CRU-31), riffle split to 250 g subsamples (SPL-21) and pulverized to 85% passing 75 m (PUL-31). Crushed duplicates were created by riffle splitting crushed samples into two parts.

Gold analyses were completed using a 30 g lead fire assay and AAS finish (Au-AA23). Multi-element analyses for 48 elements were completed using a geochemical four acid digestion and ICP-ES/MS finish (ME-MS61). Over-range assays for Ag, Cu, Zn, and S were completed using an ore grade four-acid digestion and ICP-ES finish (ME-OG62). Additional analyses were completed for Ba and Hg.

Au, Ag, Cu, Pb, and Zn assays for QC samples were reviewed to ensure that CRMs are within tolerance limits specified on supplier certificates, BLKs are below acceptable thresholds, and DUPs display statistical patterns normally expected for sample types, methods, and elements. CRMs that returned assays outside of tolerance limits and BLKs with assays above thresholds were deemed to have failed. If failures were materially significant then sample batches containing the failed QC samples were re-assayed to ensure that the QC samples returned acceptable results before release. All QC monitoring data are reviewed and signed off by an independent QA/QC geologist.

There is no known relationship between core sample recoveries and assay grades. Ambler Metals will submit 5% of the assay intervals from prospective lithologies to a laboratory independent of ALS Minerals for check assaying.

Qualified Persons

Richard Gosse, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration for Trilogy, is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and Regulation S-K 1300. Mr. Gosse has reviewed the scientific and technical information in this news release and approves the disclosure contained herein.

About Trilogy Metals

Trilogy Metals Inc. is a metal exploration and development company that holds a 50 percent interest in Ambler Metals LLC which has a 100 percent interest in the Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects in Northwestern Alaska. On December 19, 2019, South32, a globally diversified mining and metals company, exercised its option to form a 50/50 joint venture with Trilogy. The UKMP is located within the Ambler Mining District, one of the richest and most-prospective known copper-dominant districts in the world. It hosts world-class polymetallic volcanogenic massive sulphide deposits that contain copper, zinc, lead, gold and silver, and carbonate replacement deposits that have been found to host high-grade copper and cobalt mineralization. Exploration efforts have been focused on two deposits in the Ambler Mining District  the Arctic VMS deposit and the Bornite carbonate replacement deposit. Both deposits are located within a land package that spans approximately 190,929 hectares. Ambler Metals has an agreement with NANA Regional Corporation, Inc., an Alaska Native Corporation that provides a framework for the exploration and potential development of the Ambler Mining District in cooperation with local communities. Trilogy's vision is to develop the Ambler Mining District into a premier North American copper producer while protecting and respecting subsistence livelihoods.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, statements relating to interpretation of drill results; the Company's beliefs regarding the potential of the Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects; and the Company's expectations regarding de-risking of the Upper Kobuk Mineral Projects are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", "poised" and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", "would" or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve various 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. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include the uncertainties involving success of exploration, permitting timelines, requirements for additional capital, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, supplies and services the interpretation of drill results, the need for additional financing to explore and develop properties and availability of financing in the debt and capital markets; uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drilling results and geological tests; the need for cooperation of government agencies and native groups in the development and operation of properties; the need to obtain permits and governmental approvals; unanticipated variation in geological structures, metal grades or recovery rates; unexpected cost increases, which could include significant increases in estimated capital and operating costs; fluctuations in metal prices and currency exchange rates and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2022 filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and in other Company reports and documents filed with applicable securities regulatory authorities from time to time. Copy of Company's Form 10-K may be obtained at no charge by visiting our Investors website at www.trilogymetals.com , the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or at www.sedar.com . The Company's forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made. The Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

SOURCE Trilogy Metals Inc.
UTRECHT, Netherlands and NEW DELHI, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As digital content gains importance in healthcare, the medical writing industry is transitioning to digital content management.

Turacoz is setting the standard for healthcare communication by utilizing Veeva and providing expert training in digital content management

Turacoz Healthcare Solutions has fully embraced this shift, moving from traditional methods to a centralized and streamlined approach using Veeva. This platform facilitates collaboration, offering all stakeholders access to up-to-date information, improving efficiency, and reducing the time and resources needed for content management. Veeva integrates with regulatory systems, provides analytics and reporting capabilities, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and enabling organizations to monitor the performance of their content.

Turacoz recognizes the positive impact Veeva has had on the industry. In addition, Turacoz has been leading the way in raising awareness and training about the same.

To meet the increasing demand for content lab managers in the industry, Turacoz has created a range of webinars, workshops, and courses. Their recent webinar was on Digital Content Lifecycle Management and Medical Writers which drew over 150 participants from the industry and medical writing circles. The webinar covered everything from content creation to management and distribution, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

Turacoz is now excited to launch a unique Certificate Course in Digital Content Lifecycle Management in March 2023. Turacoz founder, Dr. Namrata Singh, with her over 20 years of experience, will lead the course. TuraDome, Turacoz's Veeva-like application, will provide trainees with hands-on experience with content asset management workflows. Also, Turacoz will provide placement assistance to high performers upon course completion.

Through training and support, Turacoz is ensuring that professionals have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this dynamic field. By equipping individuals with the latest medical writing skills and tools, Turacoz is at the forefront of shaping the future of digital content management in healthcare communications.

About Turacoz

Turacoz Group is a strategic partner to biopharma companies, medical technology firms, healthcare professionals, and research institutes to escort their product/service development journey. We create Clear, Cohesive, Complete, Concise, and Concrete scientific communication in a target-specific language and format (both print and digital) so that our clients can focus on core research and development to enhance and improve patient care.

Media Contact:

Pooja Parashar,

[email protected]

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2010138/Turacoz_Veeva.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1814514/Turacoz_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Turacoz Healthcare Solutions Private Limited
NEW TAIPEI CITY, Taiwan, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UfiSpace, the leading provider of open disaggregated networking solutions, announced today its presence at 2023 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, where they join hands with industry leading software and hardware solution providers to showcase an ecosystem supporting the development and vision for open 5G transport networks.

At MWC Barcelona 2023, UfiSpace will be at the Taiwan Pavilion where their booth will include open transport solutions for Private 5G networks based on Open RAN architecture, OpenZR+ enabled mobile backhaul, and XR Optics enabled point to multipoint aggregation.

For private 5G networks, UfiSpace is collaborating with IP Infusion and Pegatron Corporation to build an end-to-end solution based on Open RAN architecture and will include Pegatron's latest remote radio units (RRUs), white box DU/CU servers enabled with timing synchronization from UfiSpace PCIe 5G compliant timing card, and UfiSpace's 5G fronthaul multiplexer (FHM), an effective solution to expand mobile network reach with minimal DU network nodes. The fronthaul compliant router includes UfiSpace's all-in-one 1/10G fanless router integrated with IP Infusion's OcNOS.

"Since the initiation of our O-RAN technology team in 2019, we have continued to innovate and expand our end-to-end 5G solutions with Open RAN architecture. We are glad to showcase part of our Private 5G offering along with UfiSpace," said CY Feng, BG6 General Manager of Pegatron Corporation.

"UfiSpace is a trusted partner and technical innovator providing open networking solutions to a fast-paced marketplace. With this comprehensive solution for Open RAN with IP Infusion and Pegatron, we will demonstrate the role open networking plays in building cost-effective and feature-rich next generation networks," said Atsushi Ogata, President and CEO of IP Infusion.

To help service providers build more efficient, high-capacity, and long-distance optical transport networks, UfiSpace's showcase at MWC will include 400G QSFP-DD OpenZR+ transceivers from Molex and Coherent that were qualified with a transmission range of up to 600 kilometers. The OpenZR+ transceivers will be integrated with UfiSpace's open router, S9510-28DC, which is designed for mobile backhaul, BNG, and multi-service aggregation offering high density 25/100/400G interfaces with support for FlexE, Class C timing accuracy, and time-sensitive networking (TSN).

"Coherent's OpenZR+ optical transceivers offer a field-proven solution that already helps many of our customers in their fixed and mobile network upgrades," said Dr. Beck Mason, Executive Vice President, Telecommunications at Coherent Corp. "This IP-over-DWDM network architecture achieves significant savings in upfront costs and ongoing expenses. When paired with open aggregation platforms, it will further enhance flexibility and simplicity for optical transport network deployments."

"Molex's transceivers deliver power-efficient, high performance and cost-effective solutions that will serve the industry's need for disaggregated network solutions," said Joseph Chon, Director of Product Line Management at Molex Optoelectronics. "We are delighted to showcase our solutions with UfiSpace's open routing platforms."

XR optics is an innovative technology that supports point-to-point and point-to-multipoint transmission eliminating the need for intermediate aggregation and transponders. At MWC, UfiSpace will showcase Infinera's ICE-X 400G XR QSFP-DD, an Open XR Forum compliant intelligent coherent pluggable transceiver, with our open aggregation router, S9600-56DX. Designed for BNG, multi-service aggregation, peering, and internet gateway applications, the S9600-56DX offers 100/400G interfaces in compact 2U form factor, TSN, and Class C timing accuracy.

"We are thrilled about the rapidly expanding ecosystem of XR optics solutions and excited to be working with UfiSpace and its open networking platforms to bring more flexibility to service provider aggregation networks," says Tom Burns, General Manager, Optical modules & Coherent Solutions at Infinera.

On the MWC show floor UfiSpace is partnering with DriveNets to showcase the latest updates for Distributed Disaggregated Chassis (DDC), a revolutionary networking solution that allows service providers to build cloud like networks with pay-as-you-grow scalability, simplified network upgrades, zero-touch-provisioning, and flexible service delivery. DriveNets Booth #63 at Hall 2 will showcase their latest updates for their DNOS software along with UfiSpace open core/edge routers for DDC, S9710-76D, high density 400G platforms, and S9701-82DC, high density 25G/100G platforms, which enables the DDC more versatility whether deployed in extremely large core networks or smaller aggregation layers.

"We are excited to join MWC 2023 to showcase the latest update in the development of the DDC," says Nir Gasko, VP Global Strategic Alliances of DriveNets. "In collaboration with UfiSpace, we continue to innovate and execute on our vision to change the future of the networking market. Visit us during the show to learn more about the latest updates and vision for our cloud-native networking infrastructure."

To build the next generation of 5G, data center and multi-cloud networks UfiSpace is collaborating with Arrcus to integrate its ACE platform on multiple UfiSpace open routers such as the S9300-32D for data center ToR/Leaf/Spine, the S9710-76D and S9700-53DX for service provider high-bandwidth aggregation, and the S9510-28DC for cell site router use cases. Visit the Arrcus Booth at #2D19 in Hall 2 for a live demonstration of their ACE platform and experience how their programmable platform can modernize 5G networks from edge to multi-cloud with UfiSpace's open routers to address use cases such as multi-access edge computing and 5G-XHaul for Open RAN.

"Telecom operators need open, flexible and software programmable networks to be able to deliver new services and at 2023 MWC, we are excited to showcase our solutions in collaboration with UfiSpace to deliver to those needs across mobile access, datacenter and edge use cases," says Sanjay Kumar, Vice President, Products & Marketing. "Working with UfiSpace hardware platforms provides our customers with the broadest range of highly scalable, performant, reliable and future-proof transport solutions."

Visit the UfiSpace Booth at #5A61 in Hall 5 during February 27 to March 2 at MWC 2023 to explore UfiSpace latest open transport networking solutions.

For more please contact UfiSpace. Follow UfiSpace's LinkedIn for the latest updates on new products, applications and case studies.

UfiSpace Media Contact:

Nicole Chen

[email protected]

SOURCE UfiSpace
~Veteran Hospitality Marketer Brings Proven Experience to Representative Company of Leading All-Inclusive Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts Brands~

MIAMI, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Unique Vacations Inc. (UVI), an affiliate of the worldwide representative of Sandals  Resorts and Beaches  Resorts , today announced the appointment of Tony Cortizas as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), effective immediately. Cortizas brings more than three decades of creative storytelling and strategic brand building expertise for global hospitality names. He will report to CEO Jeff Clarke, strengthening his leadership role within the organization where he is charged with directing research, creative, and brand marketing for the hospitality brands under the UVI umbrella, particularly all-inclusive trailblazer Sandals Resorts and sister brand, family-friendly Beaches Resorts.

Pictured: Tony Cortizas

"Tony's body of award-winning work demonstrates his proven ability to engage audiences over time and across channels with rich storytelling and opportunities that foster lifelong relationships between brands and customers," said Clarke. "We are thrilled to have his expertise as we take on the transformative work of exceeding the expectations of new generations of audiences to Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts."

Prior to his promotion to CMO, Tony Cortizas was SVP of Brand Development, a role he held since his return to Unique Vacations in 2021. Before that, Tony spent fourteen years with Melia Hotels International, most recently as V.P. of Global Brand Strategy where he led the strategic vision of the company's entire brand portfolio, driving performance through optimization of the customer journey.

For more than a dozen years starting in 1995, Tony was part of the Unique Vacations team, directing global advertising and working closely with agency partners and directly with Sandals Resorts International Founding Chairman Gordon "Butch" Stewart on consumer-facing campaigns, web design, digital marketing and industry co-operative programs. These efforts, among many others, helped define and raise the profile of Sandals Resorts as the leading luxury all-inclusive vacation for adult couples and Beaches Resorts as the family market leader.

Since his return, Tony has been working to enhance the customer journey, from partners and vendors to travel advisors and ultimately guests as they engage with and experience the Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts brands.

"We are at an incredible moment in the story of all-inclusive hotels when the market is seeking clarity and resonance. I am thrilled to bring my point of view and passion to brands that I believe deeply in and create the winning differentiation they deserve," said Cortizas.

About Unique Vacations, Inc.

Unique Vacations is an affiliate of the worldwide representative for Sandals Resorts, including Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts and Fowl Cay Resort and Your Jamaican Villas, delivering the best Caribbean vacations to every sector of the market. Fulfilling sales, marketing, public relations, creative services, and web-based initiatives for Sandals Resorts, Unique Vacations works to effectively showcase and grow each distinct brand among consumers, partners, media, and industry professionals alike. Unique Vacations is also committed to the success of its retail travel partners, offering the most comprehensive agent education and reward and recognition programs in the industry and a stringent pricing policy that eliminates discounting, protects brand integrity, and avoids consumer confusion. For over 30 years, Unique Vacations has continued to successfully elevate the resort portfolio of Sandals Resorts as the World's Leading All-Inclusive Company.

Contact:

The Decker/Royal Agency

[email protected]

SOURCE Unique Vacations Inc.
DUBLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Key Trends in the US Childrenswear and Children's Footwear Market" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





US Childrenswear and Children's Footwear Market briefing offers an insight into to the size and shape of the apparel market, highlights buzz topics, emerging trends as well as pressing industry issues.

US children's wear and footwear showed greater resilience than wider apparel and footwear facing the COVID-19 crisis in 2020 and economic uncertainties in 2022.

Fashion players, especially mid- to high-value players, are progressively relaunching children's wear and introducing new collections. Catering to parents and children's changing behavior is increasingly critical as the market is more crowded than before and the US birth rate is expected to remain static and then decline from now to 2040.

It identifies the leading companies and brands and offers strategic analysis of key factors influencing the clothing and footwear market - be they change on the supply side, in channel dynamics, economic/ lifestyle /demographic influences or pricing issues. Forecasts illustrate how the market is set to change and criteria for success.



Product coverage: Apparel, Footwear, Sportswear.



Data coverage: market sizes (historic and forecasts), company shares, brand shares, and distribution data.

Why buy this report?

Get a detailed picture of the Apparel and Footwear market;

Pinpoint growth sectors and identify factors driving change;

Understand the competitive environment, the market's major players, and leading brands;

Use five-year forecasts to assess how the market is predicted to develop.

Key Topics Covered:

A snapshot of the US childrens wear and children's footwear market

Competitive landscape

Top five trends shaping the industry

What's next

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/9zuvu8-trends-in-the?w=5

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.



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
Press conference (live streaming): Innocent man may be ordered to return to prison after serving 32 years behind bars for a murder he did not commit

Join 1:30 pm ET, Feb. 27 in Titusville or on Facebook Live

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Supreme Court announced today that it will not hear the case of Crosley Green, a 65-year-old Florida man who has steadfastly fought for more than three decades to prove his innocence following his wrongful conviction by an all-white jury for a 1989 murder in Titusville, Florida. Green will be joined by his family and legal team at a press conference at 1:30 pm Monday, Feb. 27, at the Holiday Inn  Kennedy Space Center in Titusville (details below). Also speaking will be Kenneth Nunn, law professor at University of Florida, and two men who were also wrongfully convicted by Brevard County, Fla. prosecutors in the 1980s.

Crosley Green

With no physical evidence linking him to the crime and key witness notes withheld by prosecutors pointing to another suspect, Green may now be ordered to return to state prison despite having spent the past two years working and living as a model citizen surrounded by family in a Florida community. The case has been widely covered by CBS News, Florida Today, and other media.

"Mr. Green and his family were devastated by the news today. Yet, they are a family of remarkable faith, and they are clinging to one remaining hopethat the State of Florida will grant clemency or parole. There is still time for the State to do the right thing," said Keith J. Harrison, Crowell & Moring partner and attorney for Green.

"My faith is in Jesus, and that is a faith that does not disappoint. I came to believe in him in prison. I believe he is with me nowand not only with me but with my family, my children and my grandchildren. I want what is best for them and want to continue to contribute to my community in Titusville. I want to spend whatever time I have left with them. I want to be a part of their lives. I am praying that the decision-makers within the State of Florida hear us," Green said.

"I want to thank everyone who has supported me. I want to thank my employer for giving me a chance to work. I want to thank the judges for considering my case. I want to thank everyone who signed the amicus briefs to support me. It meant a great deal to see the respect and courtesy coming from people that I don't know. To see what they've written shows me that America is on its way to mending. It's getting there. I see a small group getting together to make this justice system really what it's supposed to be. Fairness for allnot just one but all. I want to thank my legal team. I want to thank those in the justice system who are working to see the right thing happen, and also to all of the many people who are in this country praying and hoping that I get my freedom and see justice prevail," Green said.

Green served 32 years in prison and has been on conditional release since April 2021 after his conviction was overturned by a federal court in Orlando. The court found that Brevard County prosecutors withheld witness interview notes that said the first two responding law enforcement officers told the prosecutor that they concluded the victim's ex-girlfriendnot Greencommitted the crime. No evidence ties Green to the crime scene. The State of Florida appealed his victory, and Green lost at the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals and recently petitioned the Supreme Court to reverse that decision. This morning, the Supreme Court announced it would not hear his case. Green has consistently maintained his innocence.

Green Is Not Alone

Also speaking at the press conference will be two men who were also wrongfully convicted by Brevard County, Florida prosecutors in the 1980sWilliam Dillon and Walter Dedge.

"Mr. Green is not the only victim of a wrongful conviction in Brevard County. William Dillon and Walter Dedge will be present to show they stand with Mr. Green, and to remind Floridians that there was a pattern of prosecutorial misconduct in the county at that time," Harrison said.

Florida Law Professors Express Concerns

In the lead up to the Green's petition to the Supreme Court, more than 100 prominent law school professors, former state-court judges, current and former prosecutors, and others filed "friend of the court," or "amicus" briefs, asking the Supreme Court to hear Green's case due to the very significant constitutional issues at stake. They included Kenneth Nunn, professor of law at University of Florida Levin College of Law; Leroy Parnell, professor of law at Florida A&M University College of Law; Susan Rozelle, professor of law at Stetson University College of Law; Donna Coker, professor of law at University of Miami School of Law; and others.

Implications for the Deep South

The Supreme Court's decision to reject Green's petition could have far-reaching repercussions for all criminal defendants in the United States. At issue is the 60-year-old Brady doctrine, a law that requires prosecutors to turn over material exculpatory evidence to the defense before trial. In Green's case, prosecutors withheld key evidence pointing to another suspectthe ex-girlfriend of Charles "Chip" Flynn, Jr. who was with him the evening of his murder and was the state's chief witness at trial. The Eleventh Circuit ruled that prosecutors did not need to turn over the evidence to Green's defense counsel because the notes themselves were inadmissible at trial or otherwise cumulative. Green's lawyers argued that knowing the two first-responding officers thought someone else did it and reported that to the lead prosecutor would have transformed defense counsel's investigation and trial strategy.

"It's a fight for freedom, and the fight isn't over until freedom is achieved," said Harrison. "We intend to approach Governor DeSantis and the parole board. We hope to have a conversation about why Mr. Green deserves to be free. We know Governor DeSantis is a law and order governor who is passionate about justice. We believe he will see that Crosley deserves to be free."

Press Conference (in-person):

1:30 pm ET, Feb. 27

Holiday Inn  Kennedy Space Center

4715 Helen Hauser Blvd, Titusville, FL 32780

On Facebook Live:

https://www.facebook.com/crosleygreen/

Speakers:

Keith J. Harrison , Crowell & Moring partner, counsel for Crosley Green

, Crowell & Moring partner, counsel for Vincent J. Galluzzo , Crowell & Moring partner, counsel for Crosley Green

, Crowell & Moring partner, counsel for Kenneth Nunn , professor of law at University of Florida Levin College of Law

, professor of law at Levin College of Law Crosley Green

Shirley White (sister to Green)

(sister to Green) O'Connor Green (brother to Green)

(brother to Green) Leshumbai "Shuma" Stokes (oldest son of Green)

Wilton Dedge

William Dillon

Wilton Dedge was convicted of sexual battery, aggravated battery, and burglary in 1982 in Brevard County, Fla. His case was overturned after two rounds of DNA testing conclusively proved he was not connected to the forensic evidence recovered from the victim and from the crime scene. He was released in 2004.

William Dillon was convicted of murder in 1981 in Brevard County, Fla. His case was overturned after DNA testing of the suspect's T-shirt recovered by police was conclusively tied to the killer and had not been worn by Dillon. He was released in 2008.

Read Green's petition to the U.S. Supreme Court for writ of certiorari. For more information about the case, visit the Crosley Green information page.

Crowell & Moring has represented Green pro bono since 2008. The team includes Crowell & Moring partners Keith J. Harrison, Jeane A. Thomas, Vincent J. Galluzzo, and counsel Drake Morgan.

About Crowell & Moring LLP

Crowell & Moring LLP is an international law firm with offices in the United States, Europe, MENA, and Asia. Drawing on significant government, business, industry and legal experience, the firm helps clients capitalize on opportunities and provides creative solutions to complex litigation and arbitration, regulatory and policy, and corporate and transactional issues. The firm is consistently recognized for its commitment to pro bono service as well as its programs and initiatives to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Media Contact:

Nicole Quigley

Senior Communications Advisor

+1 202.624.2849

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Crowell & Moring LLP
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Irans relations with Armenia are historical and in line with the interests of the entire region, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said during a meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan in Geneva, IRNA reports.

Weve numerously said that the good relations between Tehran and Yerevan arent detrimental to any country. We support the development of communication between all countries in the Caucasian region, however being against any geopolitical change in the region is our fundamental policy, the Iranian FM added.

FM Hossein Amir-Abdollahian added that Armenia and Iran have big potential for development of relations especially in the economic sector.

The foreign ministers discussed issues related to bilateral and multilateral partnership, the Armenian foreign ministry said in a read-out.
PITTSBURGH, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The United Steelworkers union (USW) and Titan International, Inc., today called for restrictions on downstream products made from Russian petroleum inputs, citing in particular concerns over imports of off-the-road (OTR) tires from India.

"The United States and its allies rightly issued sanctions against Russian petroleum after Putin's unprovoked attack on Ukraine," said USW International President Tom Conway. "But Russia and Russian producers managed to find ways to utilize producers in third-party countries to continue profiting from exports.

"This not only hurts our Ukrainian allies and prolongs the war, but also undercuts domestic industries as third-country producers leverage access to cheap Russian petroleum inputs to drive down prices on products like tires they export to the United States."

India was not among the nations to ban imports of Russian oil products, like the carbon black needed for OTR tires, and it now functions as one of Russia's top export destinations. Russia is also India's top source for oil imports.

At the same time, exports of Indian OTR tires to the United States jumped by nearly 38 percent compared to the same period in 2021.

"We owe it to workers in both Ukraine and the United States to close this loophole and starve Russia's war effort once and for all," Conway said.

The USW represents 850,000 workers employed in metals, mining, pulp and paper, rubber, chemicals, glass, auto supply and the energy-producing industries, along with a growing number of workers in health care, public sector, higher education, tech and service occupations.

Contact: Jess Kamm Broomell, 412-562-2444, [email protected]

SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW)
Groundbreaking check deposit process approves 99% of checks for instant availability with a loss guarantee



FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- VALID Systems , a leader in account-based decisioning and real time machine learning models, announced the launch of InteliFUNDS, a new service that enables banks to transform their customers' experience by making up to 99% of check deposits instantly available with no risk to the institution. Checks approved for instant availability that later return and cause a loss for the bank are covered by VALID Systems. By eliminating up to 95% of check deposit losses and generating tremendous customer value, InteliFUNDS drives multiple efficiencies throughout the deposit process.

"Check fraud had been on the rise through 2018 and 2019 until the pandemic offered a reprieve from the onslaught, but that was only temporary," said VALID Systems Chief Strategy Officer Rodney Drake. "As government stimulus funds dried up, check fraud has come roaring back. By guaranteeing against losses caused by returned checks, InteliFUNDS enables banks to deliver on customer expectations of instant access to their check funds while providing the institution with powerful safeguards."

Through InteliFUNDS, VALID is achieving nine-figure savings in annualized value for our largest clients with results that scale for most financial institutions. Value generation by InteliFUNDS includes:

Higher customer satisfaction and improved net promoter scores

Decreased charge-off losses and fraud

Decreased customer complaints and call center volume

Lower cost to serve and deposit migration

Controllable losses and lower turnover of frontline employees and more

In today's fast-paced world, banking customers demand instant access to their funds. With InteliFUNDS, banks can now provide their customers with the speed, convenience, and security they need to manage their finances more efficiently. To learn more about InteliFUNDS, visit www.validadvantage.com/solutions.

About Valid Systems

VALID Systems has been providing risk management solutions for some of the nation's largest financial institutions and other financial service providers for 20 years. The company utilizes behavioral analytics within its supervised machine learning models to provide real-time risk decisions on financial transactions. Its flagship product, InteliFUNDS, enables financial institutions to eliminate risk associated with check deposits while providing their customers with instant access to funds. Read more about VALID Systems at www.validadvantage.com.

Press Contact

Sam Garcia, Publicist

Strategic Vantage Marketing & Public Relations

214.762.4457 | [email protected]

SOURCE VALID Systems
GOODYEAR, Ariz., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Valor Preparatory Academy of Arizona, the innovative hybrid school for grades 6-12, will be hosting a special open house event on Thursday, March 2, 2023, to commemorate its third anniversary. At the open house, local families can meet teachers, tour the state-of-the-art facility, and learn more about the school's hybrid instructional schedules. The open house will take place at the school's campus, located at 13185 West Thomas Road in Goodyear, Arizona, and will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Valor Preparatory Academy combines the best of traditional and modern education and offers students smaller class sizes and individualized attention. It follows a hybrid learning model, where students learn with teacher-led instruction in a state-of-the-art facility, and at home with independent online coursework and lectures.

The school, which has offered this successful hybrid option for the past three years, has been in high demand, as students are also afforded special opportunities that are not typically offered at other schools. Valor Preparatory Academy has a partnership with its neighbors at Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC), so students can take college courses free of charge while attending the hybrid school. In addition to free college classes, Valor Preparatory Academy also focuses on preparing students for different careers. Students who are interested in going directly into a skilled workforce can take career training courses at West-MEC campuses.

Valor Preparatory Academy is ideal for students who want a tuition-free, high-quality education with more personalized support and a flexible schedule. Current and prospective students and families can RSVP for the open house at ValorAZ.org/Open-House. Enrollment for the 23/24 school year is also open. Families can visit ValorAZ.org/Enroll to reserve a seat for their child(ren).

For more information, contact:

Anita Torres

480.397.0605

[email protected]

ABOUT VALOR PREPARATORY ACADEMY OF ARIZONA

Valor Preparatory Academy of Arizona is a tuition-free school that follows a hybrid learning model, wherein 6-12th grade students get the personalization and flexibility of online learning combined with the structure and support of traditional schools with highly qualified teachers on-site. It is founded by Arizona trailblazers with more than two decades' experience in online charter school leadership. ValorAZ.org.

SOURCE Valor AZ
The Bulgarian Brand Adheres to a Strict Code That Percolates Throughout Every Aspect of Its Two-Decade Old Business

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The health and wellness world is massive and growing. Vitamins and supplements are a major part of the natural fitness revolution, as well, with some estimating the size of that one portion of the larger health and wellness market to be nearly $40 billion in 2023 . In other words, there are a lot of options when it comes to sourcing supplements. It's an issue that leaves many consumers struggling to decipher which brands are offering superior solutions. This analysis paralysis is precisely why VemoHerb has managed to stand out and even grow in the midst of a crowded industry.

"VemoHerb was founded over two decades ago," explains co-owner Vasil Zlatev, "so we've been around the block a few times. Our experience, along with our natural herbal resources here in Bulgaria, has allowed us to create a powerful company philosophy that has consumers squarely in its focus."

As a health and wellness company, VemoHerb prioritizes several key elements:

Quality : VemoHerb has a one-of-a-kind approach to manufacturing that harvests wild Bulgarian herbs, processes them, and manufactures their products in a closed-loop, in-house cycle that helps them maintain meticulous control over their quality.

: VemoHerb has a one-of-a-kind approach to manufacturing that harvests wild Bulgarian herbs, processes them, and manufactures their products in a closed-loop, in-house cycle that helps them maintain meticulous control over their quality. Honesty : Consistency is an issue in the herbal supplement industry. VemoHerb has mastered the art of producing standardized, consistent, and concentrated products with no unnecessary fillers.

: Consistency is an issue in the herbal supplement industry. VemoHerb has mastered the art of producing standardized, consistent, and concentrated products with no unnecessary fillers. Transparency : "Proprietary blends" have no place in health. VemoHerb doesn't hide behind labels. It ensures that everyone knows what they're getting with each bottle.

: "Proprietary blends" have no place in health. VemoHerb doesn't hide behind labels. It ensures that everyone knows what they're getting with each bottle. Affordability : Excessively marking up health products makes them inaccessible. VemoHerb fights to keep its costs down and its prices low so that everyone can benefit from wild-harvested herbal supplement support.

: Excessively marking up health products makes them inaccessible. VemoHerb fights to keep its costs down and its prices low so that everyone can benefit from wild-harvested herbal supplement support. Uniqueness : VemoHerb's home region of Bulgaria is a treasure trove of unique herbs, with the well-known Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris among them, giving the brand a larger variety of unique formulas.

: VemoHerb's home region of is a treasure trove of unique herbs, with the well-known Bulgarian Tribulus Terrestris among them, giving the brand a larger variety of unique formulas. Natural ingredients: VemoHerb's approach to supplementation is purely natural. There are no synthetic or modified ingredients in its formulas.

Taken together, this combination of quality and commitment to the customer has helped VemoHerb remain a consistent source of potent herbal supplements for years. In fact, it has positioned the company to not just survive in a competitive environment. The brand is growing, including an ongoing expansion to the United States, where Zlatev and the VemoHerb team look forward to offering their popular supplements to American consumers in the near future.

About VemoHerb

VemoHerb is a health and wellness enterprise with over two decades of experience in the supplement industry. Founded in 1999, the family-owned label was established to develop and market innovative herbal extracts and food enzymes. The brand prides itself on its closed-loop production process, which starts with harvesting wild-grown herbs from the Balkan mountain region, includes cutting-edge active ingredient extraction via the company's in-house lab, and ends with elite supplements with transparent and informed labels. Learn more at vemoherb.com .

Media Contact:

Deyana Zdravkova

International Marketing & Sales Services

Vemo 99 LTD

88 Rozhen Blvd, 1271 Sofia, Bulgaria;

Phone: +359 2 931 66 21

[email protected]

SOURCE VemoHerb
Real Estate Industry Veterans Ronald M. Dickerman and Stephanie L. Williams to Join Board

Alan R. Batkin to Retire from Board

Board Refreshment Reflects Veris Residential's Ongoing Commitment to Best-in-Class Corporate Governance

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Veris Residential, Inc. (NYSE: VRE) (the "Company"), a forward-thinking, environmentally- and socially-conscious real estate investment trust (REIT) that primarily owns, operates, acquires, and develops Class A multifamily properties, today announced the appointment of two new independent directors, Ronald M. Dickerman, Founder and President of Madison International Realty, and Stephanie L. Williams, President of Bozzuto Management Company and a Partner of The Bozzuto Group, to the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board"), effective May 4, 2023. Concurrently, Alan R. Batkin will retire from the Board.

Tammy K. Jones, Board Chair, said, "As we near the completion of our transformation to a pure-play multifamily REIT, we do so with an acute focus on unlocking shareholder value, adhering to best-in-class corporate governance principles, and remaining committed to all of our stakeholders. With this in mind, we are pleased to welcome Ron and Stephanie to the Board. As a longtime investor in Veris Residential and the real estate industry broadly, Ron brings another important shareholder voice to our boardroom, considerable strategic transaction experience, and a strong understanding of our business as well as the tremendous opportunity that lies ahead. Furthermore, as one of the top female executives in multifamily property managementoverseeing a portfolio of 90,000 units and 3.4 million square feet of retail across major markets nationally with a significant footprint in the New York areaStephanie has proven herself a well-recognized leader in residential real estate operations, management, and development. On behalf of the entire Board, we look forward to their deep industry knowledge, contributions, and fresh perspectives."

Mr. Dickerman commented, "As a large, long-term shareholder, I have closely followed Veris Residential's strategic transformation and believe the Company's significant progress to date underscores its incredible future potential. I am pleased to join the Board at this critical point in the evolution of the business and look forward to working collaboratively with the Board to evaluate and execute the highest value-creating opportunities for fellow shareholders."

Ms. Williams added, "Over the past two years, the Veris Residential Board and management team have successfully streamlined the business, enhanced operations, and grown the multifamily portfolioall with an eye towards maximizing shareholder value. I am excited to bring my extensive multifamily experience to the boardroom as Veris Residential embarks on its next chapter."

Ms. Jones concluded, "Alan's strategic guidance, coupled with his decades-long public company board experience and financial acumen, have been a strong value-add to Veris Residential. We are grateful for his meaningful service to the Board and his fierce advocacy for our shareholders over the last four years, during which the Company achieved several important milestones. We wish him all the best.

"Looking ahead, we believe the Company's future is bright. With the additions of Ron and Stephanie, we believe the Board has the ideal mix of experience across multifamily operations, real estate investing, and finance to help unlock the substantial value that has been created for shareholders."

Mr. Dickerman brings more than 35 years of real estate transaction, financing, and management experience to the Board. Since founding Madison International Realty in 2002, he has built the firm into a global $8.0 billion AUM fully integrated real estate private equity platform and liquidity provider to real estate investors worldwide. Madison's investing activities span both the private and public sectors in the US, UK, and Europe across all major asset classes. Previously, Mr. Dickerman served as President and Founder of First Equity Realty, LLC, a real estate investment firm specializing in the acquisition of under-performing assets from financial institutions. He began his career as an investment banker in the Real Estate / Partnership Finance Group at Smith Barney, Harris Upham & Co., Inc., where he was responsible for the origination, analysis, structuring, acquisition, asset management, disposition and marketing of real estate and other limited partnerships. Mr. Dickerman is a member of the real estate industry trade organizations PREA, INREV, and the Zell Lurie RE Institute, and previously served on the board of the Association of Foreign Investors in Real Estate. He earned a BA from Tufts University and an MBA from Columbia University's Graduate School of Business.

For nearly 20 years, Ms. Williams has held several positions within Bozzuto's development and management divisions. As President, she oversees strategic performance and economic value creation, day to day operations of a 90,000-unit portfolio with a significant footprint in the New York area, and an array of initiatives designed to enhance the employee and customer journeys. Under her leadership, Bozzuto was awarded #1 Property Management Company by the National Association of Home Builders in 2018 and 2021, and received recognition by J Turner as the best property management company in the nation for seven consecutive years. Ms. Williams has earned the Bisnow D.C. Region Women Leading Real Estate Award and the Multi-Housing News Excellence Award for Executive of the Year, and has been named the Minority Business Leader by Washington Business Journal. She is a board member of the Real Estate Executive Council and Housing Association of Nonprofit Developers, an executive board member of the District of Columbia Building Industry Association, and an active member of the Urban Land Institute and National Multifamily Housing Council. She earned a BA from the University of Washington and a master's degree in Community Planning from the University of Maryland.

Veris Residential retained Ferguson Partners in support of its Board refreshment, which was part of the Board's ordinary course annual review of its composition.

About Veris Residential, Inc.

Veris Residential, Inc. is a forward-thinking, environmentally- and socially-conscious real estate investment trust (REIT) that primarily owns, operates, acquires, and develops holistically-inspired, Class A multifamily properties that meet the sustainability-conscious lifestyle needs of today's residents while seeking to positively impact the communities it serves and the planet at large. The company is guided by an experienced management team and Board of Directors and is underpinned by leading corporate governance principles, a best-in-class and sustainable approach to operations, and an inclusive culture based on equality and meritocratic empowerment. For additional information on Veris Residential, Inc. and our properties available for lease, please visit verisresidential.com.

Investors

Anna Malhari

Chief Operating Officer

[email protected]

Media

Amanda Shpiner/Grace Cartwright

Gasthalter & Co.

212-257-4170

[email protected]

SOURCE Veris Residential, Inc.
ANYANG, South Korea, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Vieworks, a leading global provider of high-performance digital x-ray imaging solutions, will be participating in the upcoming ECR 2023. Thousands of professionals from the medical imaging and healthcare industry will gather in Vienna, Austria from March 1st to 4th to attend this international exhibition (Vieworks booth: Expo X3, booth 328).

VIVIX-S F series

Vieworks will be showcasing its latest range of products including its longer and extended flat panel detectors (FPDs) for larger x-ray imaging along with its previous line-ups in 4 different zones: static FPDs (VIVIX-S V series and VIVIX-S F series), dynamic FPDs employing IGZO panel technology (VIVIX-D series), mammography FPDs (VIVIX-M series), and special-sized FPDs for single-shot larger x-ray imaging.

VIVIX-S V and F series are both Vieworks' next-generation detectors offered in 3 sizes - 25x30cm (VIVIX-S 2530VW/FW), 36x43cm (VIVIX-S 3643VW/FW), and 43x43cm (VIVIX-S 4343VW/FW). VIVIX-S V series presents high definition, fast workflow, and the most durable DR detectors with enhanced cost-efficiency. VIVIX-S F series, employing unbreakable glass-free TFT, brings users a premium experience with 99 pixel pitch resolution and superior usability (lighter weight, long-lasting battery, and diverse battery charging methods).

The highlight of Vieworks booth this year would be its new "Single-shot FPD solutions for larger x-ray imaging." Longer and extended version FPDs including VIVIX-S 1751S (17 x 51 inch) will be disclosed exclusively to booth visitors. This new single-shot solution enables users to image full-spine and long bone at a much faster speed and at a lower dose.

Vieworks' latest advancements in digital imaging software for each of the applications are another must-see at ECR. Chest X-ray diagnosis support powered by AI brings the market proven VXvue to the next level. PureImpact Dynamic will be displayed with dynamic imaging detectors.

About Vieworks Co., Ltd.

As a global leader in digital imaging in various applications from medical x-ray imaging to industrial x-ray inspection, Vieworks offers the most advanced x-ray flat panel detectors and software as a solution to the world. Vieworks creates new standards in the imaging industry by providing professionals with the most valued and high-quality images and offering innovative vision and insight for all. For more information, please visit xrayimaging.vieworks.com.

SOURCE Vieworks Co., Ltd.
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- VinFast announced it will start delivery of VF 8 City Edition vehicles to US customers beginning March 1, 2023. The delivery event will be held at the VinFast's store in California, marking VinFast's new journey in the international market.

These initial deliveries are from the first shipment of 999 City Edition vehicles, which were shipped to the US in December 2022. The VF 8 City Edition comes in both Eco and Plus trim with an EPA-rated range of 207 miles and 191 miles respectively.

The VF 8 City Edition customer delivery event will be held on March 1st at the VinFast store in California and, for those customers unable to attend the event, beginning on March 2nd, customers can have their vehicles delivered at home or they may schedule a pickup at a VinFast store. VinFast also announced multiple test drive events throughout California for customers to best experience VinFast's EVs.

Madam Le Thi Thu Thuy, Vice Chair of Vingroup and Chairwoman of VinFast Holdings shared: "Our team worked tirelessly to ensure VinFast vehicles meet the highest standards of quality, fit and finish our customers expect. The presence of VinFast electric cars on US streets in the coming days is an important milestone, accelerating VinFast's journey to compete in the US and abroad. Following deliveries in the US market, VinFast expects to deliver EVs in Canada, France, Germany, and the Netherlands."

The VF 8 City Edition offers many smart technology features such as Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and Smart Services to become a mobile platform that connects all aspects of life. These features will be enhanced regularly using over-the-air (FOTA) updates to improve vehicle functionality and customer experience.

Several leading insurance companies in the US have confirmed that they will provide vehicle insurance for VinFast owners. VinFast also offers an impressive 10-year warranty for their vehicles and batteries, as well as mobile repair services, and 24/7 roadside assistance.

About VinFast

VinFast - a member of Vingroup  envisioned to drive the movement of global smart electric vehicle revolution. Established in 2017, VinFast owns a state-of-the-art automotive manufacturing complex with globally leading scalability that boasts up to 90% automation in Hai Phong, Vietnam.

Strongly committed to the mission for a sustainable future for everyone, VinFast constantly innovates to bring high-quality products, advanced smart services, seamless customer experiences, and pricing strategy to inspire global customers to jointly create a future of smart mobility and a sustainable planet. Learn more at: https://vinfastauto.us/.

SOURCE VinFast
DENVER, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Vortex Brands, a Bitcoin mining company, has recently announced an ongoing growth and investment campaign to increase its Bitcoin mining power every month for the foreseeable future. By purchasing additional mining equipment, the company aims to increase the Bitcoin rewards earned, which is expected to increase in value as market conditions improve.

Todd Higley, CEO of Vortex, said, "We believe that now is the perfect time to ramp up our mining capabilities. Several variables are in our favor - the price of mining equipment is relatively low after a few years of sky-high prices, markets appear to be regaining momentum, and the SEC has made staking enemy number one - potentially good news for Bitcoin. We are excited to build on the amazing platform we have already established - it will be an adventure."

What Is Bitcoin Mining & How Does Vortex Achieve Success?

Unsure how to mine Bitcoin? Well, here it goes. Bitcoin mining solves highly complex mathematical equations to verify transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain. To solve these equations, miners need access to specialist computer hardware equipment  which Vortex invests more money in.

A miner's responsibility is to keep the blockchain safe and secure  but in this case, the miner is a computer, not a person. Essentially, it is a race to solve the equation successfully, and whichever miner does it first receives rewards in the form of Bitcoin.

The more computing power you have, the greater likelihood you'll be the one verifying a transaction, hence why Vortex wants to increase its Bitcoin mining capabilities. The more reward they earn, the more they can re-invest and share greater profits with their shareholders.

Without miners, Bitcoin and its blockchain would collapse and cease to exist.

Vortex works alongside professional third-party data centers, known as Bitcoin farms, to ensure the utmost efficiency in mining performance. Here, their equipment is monitored, maintained, and able to function 24/7, with experts overseeing their progress. For a small fee, this takes Vortex's mining productivity to another level. Furthermore, as they collaborate with multiple data centers, they can ensure their equipment's safety. Whereas, if they kept them on their premises, one incident, such as a fire or burglary, could wipe out their entire operation.

Discussion why third-party data centers are essential, Todd Higley said, "For a Bitcoin mining company our size, it just makes sense. With our vision of continuous expansion, the more hardware we purchase, the larger space we need to operate. We work with partners we trust and know will ensure peak performance and the protection of our equipment. Overall, it saves us rent, 24/7 staff, and ongoing running and maintenance costs. It also removes a lot of hassle and stress."

How To Invest In Bitcoin Mining?

To mine Bitcoin, you need specialist equipment and the ability to run it, and it's unlikely to be profitable as a lone miner. Joining a mining pool allows you to collate your power with others and split the rewards proportionally. Alternatively, investing in Bitcoin mining companies like Vortex contributes to expanding mining capabilities and increasing returns as the company grows.

According to Todd Higley, Bitcoin mining could be a fruitful investment due to favorable market conditions. The end of the bear market is approaching, and Bitcoin appears to be the most viable and future-proof cryptocurrency. "Ethereum, one of Bitcoin's largest rivals, will be impacted by the news that the SEC is potentially making staking illegal for retail traders."

About Vortex Brands

Vortex Brands is a Bitcoin mining company launched by Todd Higley in 2022 that possesses impressive mining potential. The company has launched a campaign to increase the amount of Bitcoin mining equipment it has every month.

To learn more about Vortex Brands, contact [email protected] or visit vortexbrands.us . Alternatively, you can follow their progress and get involved with the community on Twitter  @Vortexbrands.

*Revenue related calculations. Please note that the Company believes that any revenue related calculations are accurate and based on factual information, there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to achieve all projections due to number of business-related factors, such as power pricing, mining equipment availability, bitcoin mining difficulty, bitcoin market pricing and other unforeseen issues in deploying its mining rigs. You can view update information on Bitcoin Mining by visiting https://minerstat.com/coin/BTC

Certain statements in this release constitute forward-looking statements . These statements include the capabilities and success of the Company's business and any of its products, services or solutions. The words "believe," "forecast," "project," "intend," "expect," "plan," "should," "would," and similar expressions and all statements, which are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, any of which could cause the Company to not achieve some or all of its goals or the Company's previously reported actual results, performance (finance or operating) to change or differ from future results, performance (financing and operating) or achievements, including those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company's filings with the SEC, copies of which may be obtained from the SEC's website at www.sec.gov . The Company assumes no, and hereby disclaims any, obligation to update the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

SOURCE Vortex Brands Co.
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wondershare, a leading software provider, has released the second edition of its Visual Trendbook, featuring Mixed Dimension as the theme. To celebrate the launch, Wondershare is hosting a creative challenge with free effect packs. Wondershare invites all creators to enter the challenge and bring their imagined world to life in a video.

Wondershare Trendbook Mixed Dimension (PRNewsfoto/Wondershare)

The theme of Mixed Dimension is all about blending the real world with the digital world, inspiring creators to push the boundaries of their imagination. The #CreatewithWondershare challenge is open from February 22 to April 20, 2023. Participants are encouraged to use Wondershare's products such as Filmora for editing their video and Filmstock for applying various effects.

Wondershare is offering its featured Filmstock effect packs for free from February 22 to April 20, 2023. The newly released packs include Superhero and Brahmastra packs, which allow creators to add fireballs and flame effects with a single click. Additionally, users can download the Sports, Dance, Race Car, and more effect packs to enhance their videos with exciting visuals.

To win one of two $1,000 USD prizes, participants must create a video that blends live-action with digital elements. The video must be under one minute, and participants are required to share their video on social media with the hashtag #CreatewithWondershare and tag @Wondershare.

The Wondershare Visual Trendbook is a quarterly publication that showcases the latest design trends in a collection of creative assets for use in video production. Each Trendbook collection provides a variety of creative elements for video projects, including effect packs, visual effects, filters, transitions, and more.

"Our user study indicates an increased demand by users who want to easily create videos with digital effects," said Shearer Wang, Head of Product Marketing at Wondershare. "To fulfill the increased demand for digital mixed media integration, Wondershare has developed new effect packs to download from Filmstock and use in Filmora's latest version. This could result in a more dynamic and versatile video editing experience for users, allowing for more creative and engaging content to be produced."

To participate in the challenge and explore the Mixed Dimension theme, visit the Wondershare website to learn more about the contest rules and prizes. Creators can also download Filmora to try for free and access Filmstock effects from the Wondershare website. To find inspiration for your video, follow Wondershare on Instagram.

About Filmora

Filmora is a popular video editing software that is known for its user-friendly interface, extensive feature set, and affordable pricing. It is a good choice for beginner to intermediate level video editors who are looking for a software that is easy to learn and provides a range of features for editing and enhancing their videos. Additionally, Filmora is widely recognized as a solid alternative to more expensive video editing software, and is widely used in various industries and by content creators.

About Wondershare

Wondershare is a world-renowned software company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for both personal and business use. As a market leader in creativity and productivity products, Wondershare has been recognized with awards from The Shorty Awards and G2 Crowd. With over 100 million users in 150 countries, Wondershare's mission is to help our users pursue their passions and to build a more creative world, together.

SOURCE Wondershare
WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) is pleased to announce a star-studded speaker lineup and attendee list at WSWA's 2023 Access LIVE, formerly WSWA's Convention & Exposition. The can't-miss beverage alcohol industry event will be held April 25, 2023, in Orlando, Florida.

Nearly all exhibit booths and suites are filled! Register now at accesslive.wswa.org.

Access LIVE is the wine and spirits industry event of the year! Tweet this

Speakers and Celebrity Guests

Jason Momoa , actor, activist and entrepreneur who will be launching his new brand, Meili Vodka, and will be the 2023 keynote speaker with business partner Blaine Halvorson , designer, owner of MadeWorn and co-founder of Meili Vodka.

, actor, activist and entrepreneur who will be launching his new brand, Meili Vodka, and will be the 2023 keynote speaker with business partner , designer, owner of MadeWorn and co-founder of Meili Vodka. Chef Robert Irvine , Food Network celebrity chef and owner of Irvine's Spirits, will be speaking on his new book, Overcoming Impossible.

, Food Network celebrity chef and owner of Irvine's Spirits, will be speaking on his new book, Nelly, diamond-selling, multi-platinum, three Grammy award-winning rap superstar, entrepreneur and philanthropist, will have a special performance at Ovation LIVE, the closing reception, as well as launch his new brand, MoShine.

Annika Sorenstam, LPGA star, will be on the show floor with her brand Fizzy Beez.

Cecilia.ai, the world's first robot bartender, will join a panel of technology experts, including Brian Conners and Christina Moguel of the Bacardi Center of Excellence, and Elad Kobi , CEO of Ceclia.ai, to discuss the future of the industry.

and of the Bacardi Center of Excellence, and , CEO of Ceclia.ai, to discuss the future of the industry. Hear from additional thought leaders and innovators in TED-style talks on the LIVE stage. View the full lineup here.

Access LIVE is the leading wine and spirits event bringing together all members of the industry for unrivaled relationship building, business deal facilitation, content creation and educational programming.

As the premier industry event, Access LIVE is the ideal venue for product announcements and brand launches. Two such introductions to watch for at this year's convention include offerings by Food Network star Robert Irvine and rap superstar Nelly.

"I am very excited to introduce Irvine's Spirits, my new 'chef curated' Irvine's Vodka and Irvine's Gin, to industry partners at WSWA's Access LIVE," said Irvine. "It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate and toast to the vibrant U.S. spirits marketplace." The celebrity chef added, "We're looking forward to sharing this moment with our existing valued partners and welcoming new friends who will be at this must-attend event."

"I can't wait to share my new MoShine brand with everyone at Access LIVE this April. It was inspired by my love of hip hop and country music and named as a tribute to my hometown of St. Louis, MO-ssouri," said Nelly. "I want everyone to forget everything they've thought about moonshine in the past and get ready for the party I'm bringing. It's time to turn up and let the Mo' Flo!"

MoShine is produced by one of the oldest legal moonshine producers, Piedmont Distillers. It comes in two fresh flavors, peach and passion fruit, and will be rolling out across the country beginning in the spring of 2023. For more information, visit DrinkMoShine.com.

WSWA is pleased to announce a growing list of 2023 sponsors and major industry players such as Campari, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Responsibilty.org, Constellation Brands, Remy Cointreau, Casa Maestri, The Acceleration Group (TAG), Women of the Vine & Spirits, Pour Agency, Infinium Spirits, Actor Elizabeth Banks' Archer Roose, Jackson Family Wines, M.S. Walker, Disaronno International, Freixenet Mionetto USA, Oracle NetSuite, Pronghorn, Shaw Ross International, and Taub Family Companies, just to name a few.

About WSWA's Access LIVE

WSWA's Access LIVE is the largest U.S. event uniting all tiers of the beverage alcohol industry. Featuring buy-sell engagements, high-level information panels, wine and spirits competitions and C-suite-level networking, this event has been a premier destination for beverage alcohol wholesalers, suppliers and now retailers since its inception in 1943. Distributor attendees represent more than 80% of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States, and exhibitors are comprised of some of the most exciting established and up-and-coming brands in the marketplace. There is no other event in the industry that rallies so much expertise and networking and so many solutions and opportunities under one roof.

To learn more, please visit accesslive.wswa.org or visit our social platforms on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

MEDIA CONTACT

Michael Bilello

EVP, Strategic Communications & Marketing

[email protected] | (202) 716-4805

SOURCE Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan held a meeting with the delegation led by Djuna Bernard, the Vice President of the Bureau of the Chamber of Deputies/Vice Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of Luxembourg.

The Prime Minister attached importance to the continual development of the Armenia-Luxembourg relations and was pleased to note the high level of bilateral political cooperation, the Prime Ministers Office said in a read-out.

At the same time, PM Pashinyan stressed the need to develop economic partnership. The Armenian Prime Minister also underscored the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation, including in international platforms.

The processes taking place in the South Caucasus region and the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno Karabakh resulting from the illegal blockade of Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan were also discussed.

Both sides stressed the importance of the continual and consistent reaction by the international community. In this regard, the two resolutions and assessments by the European Parliament regarding Azerbaijans aggression against Armenia and the blockade of the Lachin corridor were highlighted.

Planned programs for developing and strengthening democracy in Armenia were also discussed.
LONDON and OSLO, Norway, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Xynteo, a strategic advisory firm exclusively dedicated to providing sustainability and energy transition services to some of the world's largest companies has announced a majority investment by funds advised by Leon Capital LLP (Leon Capital). The family of the founder Osvald Bjelland remains a minority shareholder. The agreement includes the creation of an employee partnership model, with senior employees now becoming owners of the business.

Xynteo logo

Over the last two decades, Xynteo has helped some of the world's leading businesses and their leaders to achieve planet positive and inclusive growth, tackle complex systemic challenges, and incubate green supply chains. They provide a range of world class professional services in strategy and innovation, leadership and culture and systems collaboration, including cross sector and value chain-based coalition models. The company operates globally, with offices in the UK, Norway, and India, and serves many of the world's leading businesses such as ABB, BP, Hindalco, HUL, JLL, Mastercard, SAP, Shell, Tata, Unilever, Verizon, and Visa.

"This partnership brings renewed impetus and ambition to Xynteo. We are incredibly excited to work with the Leon Capital team, who bring deep operational capabilities and resources, and an extensive network of industry relationships," said Jonah Grunsell, Managing Partner of Xynteo.

"The time has come to build on what we have and improve all we do  to invest in our long-term client relationships, our team, technologies and services and handover to a fantastic new partnership. In short, I commend the partnership with Leon Capital and the leaderships commitment to now take forward our mission in service of people and planet as far as we can." remarked the founder Osvald Bjelland.

Christos Lavidas, Co-founder, and Managing Partner at Leon Capital, said, "We are proud to invest in Xynteo and its mission to help the world's leading organisations succeed through planet-positive and people-inclusive growth: doing well by doing good. Our strategy at Leon Capital centres around partnering with exceptional services businesses, where we see a clear active ownership plan to create sustainable impact for all stakeholders. That's exactly what we found in Xynteo."

"We have been impressed by the exceptional business and longstanding customer relationships built by the team, and are thrilled to partner with the Bjelland family and the management. We are grateful for their trust, and this only confirms Leon Capital as a partner of choice for family-owned and founder-led businesses," said Jean-Christophe Napoleon Bonaparte, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Leon Capital.

"We are excited to partner with Xynteo, and its exceptional team members, to scale their coalitions to new geographies and value chains, to grow the Xynteo team itself, and to ensure clients see the best of all Xynteo's capabilities, every single time," commented Michael Youtsos, Partner at Leon Capital

Xynteo's partners also expressed their excitement about the transaction. Peter Voser, Chairman of ABB, and former CEO of Shell, said, "As Chairman of the Europe Delivers coalition, I am excited to work with all of Xynteo's stakeholders to scale our impact for Europe, through good growth."

Sanjiv Mehta, CEO & Managing Director of Hindustan Unilever, said, "A few years back some MNC's and local groups came together to solve some intractable problems facing the country relating to people and planet. As chairman of the Vikaasa coalition, I fully support the Xynteo partners coming in as shareholders and am excited to work on the big challenges that India faces."

Henrik Madsen, former CEO of DNV, will remain Chairman of Xynteo, and Thorhild Widvey, former Minister of Petroleum and Energy, and Minister of Culture in Norway, will remain on the board of directors.

The transaction is backed by the Leon Capital partners, Yana Investment Partners and several prominent family offices among others.

About Xynteo

Xynteo is a purpose-driven strategic advisory firm that helps global organisations, and their leaders, find new ways to grow forward as they tackle the societal and environmental challenges that are too big, too expensive, and too complex to solve alone. We believe that business is a force for good when leaders think long term, work with, not against nature, and use their influence and resources for the many, not the few. For us, this is good growth.

For more information, please visit www.xynteo.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/xynt-o/

Contact: [email protected]

About Leon Capital

Leon Capital LLP is a private equity firm, based in London, and investing in leading mid-market European tech-enabled services companies. We partner with ambitious teams to enable transformational change and build regional or international champions. We have a long-term view, a family partnership mindset, and an active management model to deliver sustainable impact for all stakeholders. The Leon Capital team has successfully completed or been involved in over 45 transactions, representing 6 billion in equity invested, and direct operational experience across 20 portfolio companies.

For more information, please visit www.leon-capital.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/leon-capital/

Contact [email protected]

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2009447/Leon_Capital_logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2009448/Xynteo_logo.jpg

SOURCE Leon Capital LLP; Xynteo Limited
TOKYO, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Astroscale Holdings Inc. ("Astroscale"), the market leader in satellite servicing and long-term sustainability across all orbits, has received an investment of U.S. $23 million from Yusaku Maezawa, the first private Japanese citizen to visit the International Space Station (ISS).

Yusaku Maezawa, the first private citizen to visit the International Space Station, with Nobu Okada, Founder & CEO of Astroscale.

"Mr. Maezawa's investment is a testament to the importance of space sustainability, and we are deeply grateful for his vision and commitment," said Nobu Okada, Founder and CEO of Astroscale. "Astroscale's mission to prevent the accumulation of space debris and to create a sustainable space environment aligns with Mr. Maezawa's experience and passion for space travel and exploration."

Maezawa is the first Japanese civilian to visit the ISS, where he spent 12 days in December 2021. This groundbreaking visit was only his first step into space. He is now preparing for the historic dearMoon mission, in which he will lead a crew of nine on the first civilian mission to fly around the Moon on a SpaceX Starship.

"As someone who has visited space, I understand the immense dangers posed by debris in orbit," said Maezawa. "My second space trip is on the horizon, the dearMoon mission to fly around the moon, and I expect similar types of space travel will become more common. I want to protect the future of space travel, so I've decided to contribute to Astroscale's mission to reduce orbital debris."

Since its founding in 2013, Astroscale has been committed to the sustainable, responsible and cost-effective use of space. The funds raised through its Series G round will support the continued development of world-leading technologies, global expansion and increased supply capacity to meet growing demand.

About Astroscale

Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations and is dedicated to on-orbit servicing across all orbits.

Founded in 2013, Astroscale is developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of on-orbit servicing, including life extension, in situ space situational awareness, end-of-life, and active debris removal, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate the growing and hazardous buildup of debris in space. Astroscale is also defining business cases and working with government and commercial stakeholders to develop norms, regulations, and incentives for the responsible use of space.

Headquartered in Japan, Astroscale has an international presence with subsidiaries in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Israel. Astroscale is a rapidly expanding venture company, working to advance safe and sustainable growth in space and solve a growing environmental concern.

Find out more about Astroscale at www.astroscale.com.

SOURCE Astroscale Holdings
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. Vice Speaker of Parliament Ruben Rubinyan held a meeting with the new United States Ambassador to Armenia Kristina Kvien.

The Vice Speaker congratulated the Ambassador on taking office and expressed certainty that her work will contribute to the deepening of the Armenian-American cooperation.

Issues related to the bilateral collegial and friendly relations were discussed, the parliaments press service said in a read-out. It was mentioned that the inter-parliamentary cooperation format has an important place in the Armenian-American relations.

Presenting the situation in the region, Rubinyan said that it is imperative that Azerbaijan stops its illegal blockade of Lachin corridor and that Azerbaijans aggressive and belligerent policy must be restrained.

The Ambassador valued the deepening of the Armenian-American cooperation and establishment of peace in the region.

Ideas were exchanged around the Armenia-Turkey normalization process.
South African vlogger in China: I am deeply impressed by CPC's people-centered philosophy

People's Daily Online) 10:04, February 27, 2023

Having nurtured a "Chinese dream" at the age of 17, South African Andre du Plessis finally came to China twenty years later.

After seven years in China, he has become a vlogger known as "Adu from Yunnan."

Du Plessis adores Yunnan's diverse ethnic cultures, and understands the Chinese political and social environment as well. The report of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) emphasized "People First," which left him with a profound impression.

Andre du Plessis feeds seagulls by the Dianchi Lake in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo provided by the interviewee).

A bank executive harboring a "Chinese dream"

As a teenager in 1994, du Plessis encountered Asian philosophy, then started to study ancient Chinese thought and even Buddhism. His Chinese friend, an acupuncture doctor, further led him into the realm of traditional Chinese medicine.

Following his parent's suggestion, du Plessis chose accounting as his major in university and became a bank executive. Yet, the "Chinese dream" has always been in his heart. At 37, he decided to come to China to pursue his dream.

Staying in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province, du Plessis has witnessed a dramatic change in China, with rapid economic growth, remarkable achievements in rural revitalization, and significant ecological improvement. He was amazed: "Every Chinese city now has more greenery, and China's environment is continuously improving."

"China is in a stage of high-quality development, and the rural environment is continuously being improved and revitalized. From all perspectives, to live in China at this time and in the future is a privilege," said du Plessis.

Andre du Plessis plays a Yunnan drum on the streets of Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo provided by the interviewee).

"If you don't understand the CPC, you can't understand China."

Holding the conviction that if foreigners in China do not understand its political system and the CPC, they cannot fully get the picture of this land. Du Plessis then systematically studied China's system and the crucial speeches of Chinese leaders. "I gradually realized how before I came to China, I actually knew very little about the real China. I hope more foreigners start to read the key policies and speeches of the Chinese leadership as well as watch China's TV programs, in this way they too can get a better understanding of China."

The "China expert" paid close attention to the 20th CPC National Congress. He said, "The report of the 20th CPC National Congress kept reiterating one topic, that is to 'put the people first, and implement a people-centered philosophy of development,' which impressed me very much."

"In China's excellent traditional philosophies, there is a saying by Mencius," he said. "'To a state, the people are the most important thing. The ruler is the least important.' It means the government should work for the people. Wherever I go in China, I can witness the government serving people well. I am deeply touched."

The South African vlogger also spoke highly of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). His motherland has suffered from insufficient power generation capacity, which caused the lack of electricity. Lacking infrastructure also troubles its people. China has been actively participating in the building of power plants in Africa. Du Plessis praised the BRI: "China has worked on its infrastructure construction for decades, which has now reached a considerably high level. The world needs China's help to develop, and infrastructure construction is only the beginning."

"Africa also needs poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. I believe that African countries can learn a lot from the Chinese development model." he commented.

Both BRICS countries, South Africa and China are in a good relationship. The former bank executive believes South Africa's well-developed financial system and the growing African population will provide a massive possibility for China-Africa trade. "It's a win-win situation," du Plessis added.

Andre du Plessis enjoys rice noodles on Confucian Temple Street in Kunming, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Photo provided by the interviewee).

"Adu from Yunnan"

The beauty of travel lies in exploring different cultures. Fascinated by the kaleidoscopic ethnic cultures of Yunnan, du Plessis deeply explored the culture, music, and costumes from different ethnic groups. Because of his mother, who is a fashion designer, he is especially curious about Yunnan's diverse ethnic costumes. "Yunnan has 26 different ethnic groupings each with their own customs, food, art and clothing. It is this diversity which attracts many foreigners to this province."

"I enjoy the good weather in Kunming. The city is full of surprises and has many cultural elements to be explored. Furthermore, it isn't just a city of culture and history. It is also modernized and serves as a key city connecting China with Asia and Southeast Asia," added the vlogger.

The 20th CPC National Congress report pointed out: "We will encourage positive interplay between culture and tourism and advance deeper integration of the two sectors." Yunnan's tourism industry has a great future, added du Plessis.

A foreigner in China, du Plessis hopes to become a cultural bridge, doing livestreams to promote culture and tourism, and showcase Yunnan's products to people nationwide and worldwide.

The account "Adu from Yunnan" on social media, which is operated in cooperation with his partners, draws a great deal of attention. "I am fulfilled by a sense of accomplishment, and the current direction of my career also gives me full confidence in my future in China," he said.

Believing that "opportunities lie where the people are," he paid close attention to China's rising new media platforms. "China has led the development of 5G technology, enabling people to purchase things and scroll short videos on smartphones. In the era of rising new media, everyone can make their own brand."

He hopes to leverage those platforms and expand his reach, letting more foreigners understand China, its people, and its society. "For foreigners, new media is a good channel to understand China. I can use it to show the real China to the outside world."

Du Plessis loves living in China: "I live a happy life here, and I hope through the work I do to attract more foreigners to China. I also hope to assist foreigners in finding local Chinese business partners and starting businesses together. This type of international business can contribute to both countries involved. Life here is very stable and safe, which allows people to pursue their life and work objectives as well as to care for their families."

"My wife is Chinese, my future and roots are here in China," he said, looking forward to a brighter life in the future.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Wu Chengliang)
YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 27, ARMENPRESS. On February 27, Foreign Minister of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan had a meeting with Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The Foreign Minister of Armenia highly appreciated the years-long activity of the ICRC in Armenia aimed at solving humanitarian issues, the foreign ministry said in a read-out.

In this context, the efforts of the ICRC towards returning Armenian prisoners of war and other civilians held in Azerbaijan, the cases of enforced disappearance and the clarification of the fate of missing persons were appreciated.

During the meeting, the sides discussed the details of the humanitarian crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh resulting from the blockade of the Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan. Minister Mirzoyan highlighted that Azerbaijan grossly violates its commitments, as well as norms of international humanitarian law and protection of human rights. The importance of implementing the decision made by the International Court of Justice on February 22 regarding the request of the provisional measures against Azerbaijan was also underlined.

Ararat Mirzoyan touched upon the need for ICRC's active involvement in addressing the humanitarian challenges in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Foreign Minister Mirzoyan also stressed the need for sending a fact-finding mission to Nagorno-Karabakh and the Lachin corridor as well as for unimpeded humanitarian access of relevant international organizations.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 27 : Even as his debut movie is getting ready for release, Malayalam debut director Joseph Manu James has died just at an age of 31. The last rites were held on Sunday at Kuravilangad of Kerala's Kottayam district.

Joseph Manu James had passed away on Friday while undergoing treatment for hepatitis at a private hospital in Aluva. He had recently completed shooting for his first directorial venture 'Nancy Rani' and post-production work is still in progress.

The movie features Ahaana Krishna, Sunny Wayne, Aju Varghese, and Arjun Ashokan, among others.

"Gone too soon brother," actor Aju Varghese posted on his Instagram handle.

Starting off as a child actor in 2004 in 'I am curious', Manu Joseph went on to become an assistant director in Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi movies.

The Malayalam film fraternity has expressed shock and dismay over the demise of the young filmmaker.

Joseph Manu James is survived by his wife Naina, and siblings.
Amman/Jerusalem, Feb 27 : Israel government denied most of the agreements that had been achieved in a meeting of senior Israeli and Palestinian security officials in Jordan.

The meeting on Sunday was called by Jordan in a bid to soothe tensions ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to a statement released by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry after the meeting held in Aqaba, the Israeli and Palestinian representatives had agreed to de-escalation.

After "comprehensive and frank" discussions, which were also attended by officials from Egypt, the United States and Jordan, the Israeli and Palestinian officials stressed their commitment to all previous agreements between them, and to work towards a just and lasting peace.

They also underlined the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground and to prevent further violence and stressed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of three to six months.

The commitments include one by Israel to cease discussion of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorization of any outposts for six months.

Israel and the Palestinians agreed to uphold the status quo at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a flashpoint site in East Jerusalem that is holy to both Muslims and Jews, the statement said.

They have also agreed to pursue confidence-building measures and strengthen mutual trust in order to address outstanding issues through direct dialogue.

The officials from the five countries agreed to convene again in Sharm El Sheikh in March to achieve the goals listed above.

In the statement, Jordan, Egypt, and the U.S. said the understandings reached during the Aqaba meeting represent major progress towards re-establishing and deepening relations between the two sides.

They also stressed the significance of the Aqaba meeting which is believed to be the first such meeting between the two sides in years, and agreed to continue the talks under this formula, maintain the positive momentum and expand this agreement towards a wider political process leading to a just and lasting peace.

However, shortly after the meeting, Israel's government denied most of the agreements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who re-took power last December as the leader of a far-right coalition government, wrote on Twitter that the approval and construction of new housing units in the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank "will continue according to the original planning and construction schedule, without any changes." The country's national security advisor Tzachi Hanegbi said in a separate statement that "in the coming months," Israel will legalize nine Israeli outposts and approve some 9,500 new housing units in the settlements.

"There is no limitation on the activity of the Israel Defense Forces," he added.

Several cabinet ministers also denied the agreement. Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a hardline and pro-settler politician, said the meeting was "useless" and vowed that the construction in the settlements will not be halted "even not for one day." The meeting was held hours after a Palestinian gunman killed two Israelis in a drive-by attack in the occupied West Bank. The attack was the latest in months of soaring tensions which saw the killing of at least 60 Palestinians and 13 Israelis.
Tehran, Feb 27 : Iran's atomic chief has said that the country seeks to export its nuclear products and technology amid the "propaganda warfare" conducted by enemies to block the country's progress in the nuclear field.

President of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Eslami made the remarks at the 29th Iranian Nuclear Conference at Shahid Beheshti University on Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported, citing Iran's Mehr News Agency.

Eslami said the country seeks to export its nuclear products and technology, adding that Iran is currently exporting radiopharmaceuticals and some types of nuclear equipment.

He also referred to the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists and attacks on Iranian nuclear sites as measures taken by Iran's enemies to impede the progress of Iran's nuclear technology.

The US and its Western allies have accused Iran of developing a nuclear weapon, and Washington has imposed sanctions on Tehran aiming to stop its nuclear activities.

Iran rejects the allegation as "baseless" and sanctions as "illegal", saying its nuclear program is peaceful and the country has never sought to develop a nuclear weapon.
Kathmandu, Feb 27 : Nepal's economy grew at 0.8 per cent during the first quarter of the current 2022-23 fiscal year which began in mid-July 2022, the lowest year-on-year growth in the past seven years, the National Statistics Office (NSO) has reported.

The country logged a growth of 3 per cent over the same period of the 2021-22 fiscal year and has targeted an 8-per cent growth for the current fiscal year, Xinhua news agency reported.

Nepal had witnessed negative growth in five sectors: construction, mining and quarrying, wholesale and retail and repair of motor vehicles, transportation and storage and education, according to the NSO figures.

The combined contribution of the five sectors to the economy stood at 37.2 per cent in the last fiscal year, the NSO said.

Mining and quarrying and the construction industry had suffered the most, as they reported 29.2 per cent and 24 per cent in negative growth respectively.

"The main reason behind the slump in the construction sector is the lack of cash flow in the entire supply chain of the sector," Rabi Singh, president of the Federation of Contractors' Associations of Nepal, told the news agency.

"The government has not been able to make payment for construction works completed with its revenues declining, while the private sector has suffered from a resources crunch with the banks not being able to provide loans as they are facing liquidity crunch in the last one and half years," added Singh.

The overall demand for goods slumped by 28.28 per cent during the first quarter of the current fiscal year, the Confederation of Nepalese Industries said in a report in December 2022.
Kohima, Feb 27 : The voting for the Nagaland Assembly elections began on Monday morning amidst heavy security measures, election officials said.

Voters, comprising men, women and first time electorates, in large numbers queued up in front of most polling stations before the voting at 59 of the 60 Assembly seats started at 7 a.m.

The voting in 2,291 polling stations, manned by 11,500 polling staff, would continue till 4 p.m. without any interruption.

Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) V. Shashank Shekhar said that around 13.16 lakh voters including 6,55,144 women would decide the electoral fate of 183 candidates including four women nominees in Monday's elections.

In the 2018 Assembly polls, 190 candidates, including five women, had contested the elections. Votes to be polled in Nagaland on Monday would be counted on March 2 along with Meghalaya and Tripura.
New York, Feb 27 : Representatives of Sikh community from North Carolina's Charlotte city met law enforcement officials in the US to find out ways to combat the rise in unlawful acts of hate.

The meeting, held on Sunday at the Gurdwara Khalsa Darbar in Charlotte, was the first of a series of planned outreach and educational events to be conducted as part of the Justice Department's "United Against Hate" (UAH) initiative.

"People in communities across the Western District have the right to live their lives free from fear, violence, and intimidation. This fundamental right is guaranteed and protected by the Constitution. Unfortunately, certain groups are frequent targets of acts of hate and abuse," said US Attorney Dena J. King.

"The purpose of this initiative is to protect our communities, educate members on their rights and the relevant law, provide an avenue for reporting hate crimes and incidents of hate, and increase trust in our criminal justice system," King said in a justice department release.

The event featured a presentation by Assistant US Attorneys with experience in prosecuting hate crimes and civil rights violations, and law enforcement representatives with the FBI, and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.

The presenters facilitated a discussion with representatives of the Sikh community centered on hate crimes, including defining hate crimes versus hate incidents, according to the release.

The importance of reporting acts of hate to law enforcement; providing options for responding to hate incidents when situations do not constitute federal or state crimes, etc were also discussed.

"With the Office's help, we have always been able to reach out to federal law enforcement for assistance with any challenge our community faces, whether it is school bullying, diversity training at the airport, security of the Gurdwara, or civil rights matters," said Pushpinder Garcha, a representative of the United Sikhs.

The "United Against Hate" initiative was announced in September 2022 by the Justice Department as a national program to fight the rise of hate crimes in the Western District of North Carolina.

The initiative will have many events, including focusing on communities at risk of being targets of hate crimes. Each event will give participants an opportunity to directly connect with federal prosecutors and law enforcement to increase community understanding of hate crimes and hate incidents.

A total of 1,005 hate crimes related to religion were reported in 2021 in the US with Sikhs being the most targeted religious groups, according to statistics revealed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Incidents related to religion comprised 14.2 per cent of incidents, the Hate Crime Statistics revealed. The largest categories of religion-based crime included anti-Jewish incidents at 31.9 per cent followed by anti-Sikh incidents at 21.3 per cent.
Brussels, Feb 27 : Several thousand demonstrators here in Belgium called for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, and a peaceful solution to the Ukraine crisis here on Sunday.

The demonstrators called for negotiations to achieve a peaceful solution to the Ukraine crisis, Xinhua news agency reported.

"This is the only way forward," Thierry Bodson, President of the General Labour Federation of Belgium (FGTB), told the news agency.

"Let's stop the fire ... Let the politicians settle the diplomatic affairs, the people want peace, bread," demonstrator Yvyes Eckman said.

Another demonstrator Isabelle Minnon said that "everywhere in the world when you take sanctions it is always the people who pay".
Damascus, Feb 27 : A delegation of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union visited Damascus, underscoring the importance of bringing Syria back to the Arab fold.

Syria's membership in the Arab League was suspended in 2011 after the ongoing civil war broke out, reports Xinhua news agency.

The president of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union and Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi headed the high-ranking delegation to Damascus on Sunday.

The eight Arab lawmakers held a meeting with President Bashar al-Assad and then went to the Syrian Parliament to meet lawmakers.

Among the visitors was Egypt's Parliament Speaker Hanafy Ali El-Gebali, the first top official from the African nation to visit Syria during the 11-year war.

Speaking to reporters in Damascus, al-Halboosi said the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union determined to work on all levels to bring Syria back to the Arab fold to assume its role in the Arab, regional, and international arena.

"Syria is indispensable, and we, as the parliamentary union representing our people, are pushing our governments to achieve more rapprochements to reach our goal of serving these countries are their dignified people," he said.

For his part, El-Gebali said he and the other lawmakers came to Syria to show solidarity with the Syrian people.

"We don't wait for Syria to come to us, we come to Syria because it's our country also," the Egyptian said.

El-Gebali revealed that their visit to Syria wasn't on the schedule of the recent Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union mini-summit in Baghdad.

He said that it is al-Halboosi's idea, noting that the Iraqi lawmaker took care of the travel arrangements for the visit to Syria.

According to Syria's state news agency SANA, President Assad stressed that the delegation's visit to his country means a lot to the Syrian people as it indicates support for them.

He said the visit affirms that there are effective Arab institutions capable of taking the initiative in various circumstances and moving in the interest of the Arab people.

He also thanked Arab countries for the rapid response shown at the popular and official levels to help the Syrian people overcome the impacts of the earthquake.

After the tragic earthquakes that jolted Syria on February 6, Arab countries have sent many aid shipments to the war-torn nation amid signs of a wide-scale diplomatic detente.
The Auburn YMCA-WEIU will offer its next session of LiveStrong, a 12-week fitness program for adult cancer survivors, beginning Monday, April 10.

The program will take place twice a week for 75-minute classes at the YMCA, 27 William St., Auburn. Times have yet to be determined.

Participants in the program work at their own level alongside other survivors, focusing on regaining stamina and strength that might have been lost during treatment. Sessions combine individual instruction and group activities with workouts that include cardiovascular, strength, flexibility and balance exercises.

The goals of the program are improving energy, building self-esteem, muscular strength and endurance, improving circulation and the ability to complete everyday tasks, reducing the severity of side effects of therapy and stress, and creating supportive relationships in a comfortable and safe environment.

A medical clearance and full health history intake must be completed. The program also includes a 12-week YMCA family membership.

Registration closes on April 3.

For more information, contact Wellness Director Laura Clary at (315) 253-5304 or laura@auburnymca.net.
New York, Feb 27 : Indian-American community leader and Democrat Darshana Patel announced her bid to run for the California State Assembly District 76 in 2024.

Patel, 48, said she will not be seeking a third term as California's Poway Unified School District board president.

The San Diego resident's campaign has earned early endorsements from Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna.

"As the daughter of immigrants who struggled to realise the American Dream, I know the challenges that families can face during hard times. If not for great public school teachers and college scholarships I would not be where I am today," Patel, who moved to California as a teen, said launching her campaign.

"I am running for State Assembly because I want to make sure that every person has the opportunity to succeed and thrive, and because I can use my experience as a scientist, elected school board member, and a civic leader to make a difference in their lives," she added.

Patel said in her campaign announcement that she wants to keep communities safe, invest in public education, protect the environment, and improve and expand quality healthcare access for Californians.

The election will be an open-seat contest, as incumbent Assembly member Brian Maienschein will be terming out.

California's Assembly District 76 includes the cities of Escondido and San Marcos, portions of San Diego, and numerous unincorporated communities in San Diego County.

Patel has helped restore effective governance and fiscal responsibility to the Poway Unified School District, while guiding local schools through the Covid-19 pandemic.

She also serves on the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs, and is a member of the San Diego County Democratic Party Central Committee.

Patel is a B.A .in Biochemistry at Occidental College and a PhD in Biophysics from the University of California, Irvine.
Brasilia, Feb 27 : The death toll after last week's heavy rains that triggered deadly floods and landslides along the coast of Brazil's southeastern Sao Paulo state has increased to 65, local authorities said.

Among the victims were 19 minors, the state government said in a statement, adding "the priority continues to be relief for the victims", reports Xinhua news agency.

Army troops, firefighters, volunteers and rescue workers are still digging to recover the bodies of the victims and search for people still missing.

Most of the victims lived in poor neighbourhoods in high-risk areas on the slopes of the Sierra de Mar mountain range, near Barra do Sahy, a beach in Sao Sebastiao.

Around 2,440 people who lost their homes had to be evacuated due to the risk of new landslides.

On Sunday, coastal roads were reopened after being closed due to landslides and storm damage.

However, the highway that links Mogi da Cruzes with Bertioga in Sao Paulo state will remain closed for six months since the rains destroyed its drainage system.

On February 19, the coastal cities of Bertioga, Caraguatatuba, Guaruja, Ilhabela, Sao Sebastiao and Ubatuba saw record pouring rain in Brazil in less than 24 hours.

Sao Sebastiao's beach, one of Brazil's exclusive tourism destinations, was drenched within one day with more than twice the amount of rain usually seen in February.

It is estimated that around 4 million Brazilians live in 14,000 areas which are at risk from natural disasters, according to government data.
Ayodhya, Feb 27 : The Uttar Pradesh government will soon hand over the Ramkatha Sangrahalaya in Ayodhya to the Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust.

A Memorandum of Understanding will be signed for this.

After this, the museum will display documents pertaining to the decades' old legal battle for Ram temple, as well as the artefacts recovered from Ram Janmabhoomi.

At present the cultural department of the state government runs the Ramkatha Sangrahalaya in Ayodhya.

Earlier this year, Nripendra Mishra, member of Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra Trust, had written a letter to the state government, requesting it to hand over the Ram Katha Sangrahalaya to the Trust.

"The state government has accepted the proposal and the Ramkatha Sangrahalaya will be handed over to the Trust," said a senior official.

Rameshwar Chaupal, a member of the Trust, endorsed this.

Initially, the Trust had planned a museum on the Ram Janmabhoomi campus along with the Ram temple, but the plan was dropped due to security reasons.

"The Trust had planned a museum on the Ram Janmabhoomi campus where all Ramayan-era artefacts were to be exhibited. They were recovered when the campus was dug up (in September 2020) for around 50 feet for laying the temple's foundation. Now, they will be displayed at the Ramkatha Sangrahalaya," he added.

The Ramkatha Sangrahalaya was constructed in 2015 with a budget of Rs 12.31 crore. The single-storey building is spread over three acres of land and has 18 rooms.

"We are expecting a large turnout of devotees at the Ram temple every month after it is opened for devotees. In such a scenario, ensuring security on the Ram Janmabhoomi campus would have become difficult. So, it was decided to drop the plan to construct a museum to avoid additional crowd," he added.

Meanwhile, the Ayodhya administration has started preparing a list of articles in the Ram Katha Sangrahalaya, that has around 150 artefacts of the Ramayan era on display.

These artefacts were recovered during 'kar seva' conducted by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad at Ram Janmabhoomi on July 22, 1992.

The Trust has also identified 11 historic structures on the Ram Janmabhoomi campus that will be preserved and restored in their original form.

Among these are 11 historic places, including Kuber Tila, Sita Koop, Sita Rasoi and Nal, Neel, Angad, and Sugreev Tila.

According to the Trust, around 70 per cent of construction work of the first phase of Ram temple is over.

Celebrations for the grand opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya will begin in December 2023 and end with the installation of Ram Lalla's idol in the sanctum sanctorum on Makar Sankranti in January 2024.
Seoul, Feb 27 : North Korea has convened a key party meeting to discuss agricultural issues, with its leader Kim Jong-un in attendance, Pyongyang's state media said on Monday, as the country is grappling with severe food shortages.

Kim presided over the seventh enlarged plenary meeting of the eighth Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) on Sunday to discuss issues of agricultural development, according to the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The rare party meeting came as the country's food situation appears to have deteriorated amid deepening economic hardships caused by border lockdowns to combat the Covid-19 pandemic and global sanctions on its nuclear and missile programs, reports Yonhap News Agency.

The North's media said the meeting will review major achievements from last year, the first year of the implementation of the country's programs on a rural revolution for the new era.

The session will also decide on "the immediate important tasks and the urgent tasks arising at the present stage of the national economic development and the practical ways for implementing them", the KCNA said in its report.

Observers said the North's rare move to convene a party plenary meeting for the second time in about two months points to the urgency to deal with the country's food crisis.

North Korea picked raising grain production as the No. 1 task among 12 major economic priorities for this year during its key party meeting late last year.

South Korea's Unification Ministry earlier said the North's food crisis appears to be worsening, with more deaths from starvation being reported recently in "some regions".

The Ministry handling inter-Korean affairs said a fall in crop production and disrupted food distribution are apparently attributable to the North's food shortages.

The North's crop output is estimated to have fallen 3.8 per cent on-year to 4.51 million tonnes last year, according to a report by the South's Rural Development Administration.

North Korea's crackdown on grain transactions at marketplaces also appears to have disrupted food distribution, observers said.

The policy is designed to restrict grain trades at state-run facilities, prompting farmers and merchants to refrain from releasing reserved grains due to fears of losses.

North Korea underwent a massive famine and related deaths during the period of the Arduous March in the 1990s.

Seoul's ministry said the current food situation seems to be "grave" although it does not appear to be similar to what it was during the Arduous March.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : In view of the protest called by AAP after the arrest of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the CBI, the heavy police deployment was witnessed outside the headquarters of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in central Delhi on Monday morning.

There was heavy police deployment and three layer security barricading at CBI office. Heavy police force has also been deployed at Rouse Avenue Court where Sisodia is likely to be produced on Monday afternoon.

According to police, after the protest by AAP, heavy security arrangements have been made on the stretch -- Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg.

The traffic cops said that traffic in the central part of the city is also likely to be affected during the day.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said that they arrested Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia for alleged irregularities in framing and implementation of the excise policy as he gave "evasive replies" and "did not co-operate in the investigation." It said that the present case was registered against the Deputy Chief Minister & In charge Excise Minister, and 14 others for investigation into the matter of alleged irregularities in framing and implementation of Excise Policy for 2021-22 and extending post tender benefits to private persons.

Delhi Police on Sunday detained 50 people, including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh and minister Gopal Rai, who were protesting near the CBI office.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Professional networking major LinkedIn has been hit by several state-of-the-art recruitment scams after massive tech layoffs, and fraudsters are cheating those sacked by offering them jobs that do not exist.

According to the Financial Times, phony recruitments are being run by scammers pretending to be employers on Microsoft-owned LinkedIn.

"There's certainly an increase in the sophistication of the attacks and the cleverness," Oscar Rodriguez, LinkedIn's vice president of product management, was quoted as saying in the report.

The platform has sought to block tens of millions of fake accounts in recent months, as regulators warn of a spike in job-related frauds.

Cyber security company Zscaler recently described a scam that targeted job aspirants, where fraudsters approached people through LinkedIn's direct messaging feature InMail.

"They also created Skype profiles with the picture of the real recruiter from the companies to conduct interviews as well," Deepen Desai, vice-president of security research at Zscaler, was quoted as saying.

The fraudsters are now using artificial intelligence (AI) to create profile photos that can fool human eyes very easily.

The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently said there were more than 92,000 job-related and business scams in 2022, with $367.4 million reported stolen.

"We see websites being set up, we see phone numbers with a seemingly professional operator picking up the phone and answering on the company's behalf. We see a move to more sophisticated deception," Rodriguez was quoted as saying.

Thousands of tech employees have lost their jobs at Big Tech and other companies in the global macroeconomic conditions.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Australian skipper Pat Cummins, who left India for home after the second Test in the Border Gavaskar Trophy in Delhi, hailed England's Barmy Army for a touching tribute to his seriously ill mother, Maria.

A heartwarming video surfaced on the Twitter handle of England's famous supporters group the Barmy Army on Saturday, in which a trumpeter can be seen playing a rendition of 'Maria' from West Side Story during England's second Test against New Zealand to support Cummins' mother, who recently entered palliative care, Reacting to the video, the Australian captain on Monday said: "This is amazing @TheBarmyArmy, thank you. Mum loved watching this and felt very touched" Cummins left for Sydney after Australia's loss against India in the second Test to be with his mother and will miss the third Test, starting from March 1 in Indore.

In the absence of the regular skipper, Cummins, Steve Smith will shoulder the captain's responsibility in the third Test.
Chennai, Feb 27 : The AIADMK candidate for the Erode East by-polls, K.S. Thenarasu said that he would win the polls by a margin of 25,000 votes. He was speaking to reporters after casting his vote at Karungalpalayam.

He also said that AIADMK has raised a complaint to the Election Commission on the substandard ballot ink used in the polls. Meanwhile, police pacified angry supporters of DMK and AIAMDK at Periyar Nagar.

Returning officer to the Erode East by-polls and Erode Corporation Commissioner, R. Sivakumar while speaking to media persons said: "Elections are proceeding smoothly and we are monitoring everything from our office."
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed pleas challenging the Centre's Agnipath scheme, saying that it was introduced in national interest and to make sure that the armed forces are well equipped.

Batches of petitions were filed challenging the scheme, its recruitment process and appointment of candidates.

A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad said: "All petitions challenging Agnipath Scheme are dismissed." The bench by upholding the constitutional validity of the scheme for entry into the Indian Armed Forces, dismissed total 23 petitions.

The maximum number of petitions counting to 18 sought appointment as per previous recruitment scheme and the rest five challenged thescheme.

The court said that it finds no reason to interfere with the scheme.

A copy of a detailed order is awaited.

The scheme, meant to recruit youth into the Indian Army for four years, will only keep 25 per cent of the selected candidates after this period.

The same bench had reserved its order on December 15, 2022.

The court on December 14 had questioned the Central government's decision for different pay scale for Agniveers and regular soldiers in the Army if their scope of work is the same.

Representing the Centre, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati had said that Agniveer is a different cadre from the regular one.
Kolkata, Feb 27 : The polling for the by-election in Sagardighi assembly constituency in Murshidabad district of West Bengal started on Monday morning under blanket security cover of the central armed forces personnel.

Barring stray incidents, the polling process had been more or less peaceful in the first two hours.

Central armed forces personnel have been deployed at all the 246 polling booths. The fate of nine candidates contesting in the bypoll will be decided by around 2,50,000 voters.

Each polling booth has been kept under CCTV coverage. The 246 polling booths have been divided in 22 sectors, and one quick response team has been assigned for each of these sectors.

The contest in the Sagardighi by-poll is triangular this time between Debasish Bandopadhyay of Trinamool Congress, Bayron Biswas (Congress) and BJP's Dilip Saha. The Left Front is not contesting in the by-poll and instead supporting the Congress candidate.

The by-poll was necessitated following the sudden demise of erstwhile Trinamool Congress MLA Subrata Saha on December 29 last year. He was a three-time TMC legislator from the Sagardighi Assembly constituency in Murshidabad district, securing consecutive victories in 2011, 2016 and 2021. In 2021, he got elected defeating BJP's Mafuja Khatun by a margin of 50,216 votes.

Stray incidences of irregularities were reported from Sagardighi since the beginning of the polls.

Till 9 a.m., the polling percentage has been recorded at 13.37 per cent as per the records of the office of Chief Electoral Officer (CEO0, West Bengal.

At booth number 71 and 75, minor incidents were reported on Monday morning following allegations of outsiders jamming the boths. However, the situation was brought under control following the arrival of quick response team members escorted by central armed forces personnel.
China's monthly registrations of locally-made passenger vehicles (PVs) reached 1,246,069 units in Jan. 2023, plunging 42.99% year on year and also tumbling 49.44% month on month, according to the data compiled by Gasgoo Auto Research Institute (GARI).

The steep YoY and MoM decrease in Jan. largely resulted from the New Years Day and Spring Festival holidays. Besides, the government's withdrawal of the yearslong generous subsidies on new energy vehicles and the 50 percent off purchase tax on some gasoline cars also weighed on automobile sales in China last month.

In the first month of 2023, Volkswagen and BYD were the only two brands with over 100,000 locally-made PVs registered in China, while Toyota ranked third with a registration volume of nearly 93,000 units. Two Chinese indigenous brands, Changan and Geely, occupied the fourth and fifth places, outselling the other major Japanese brand, Honda.

The German trio BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi ranked 8th, 10th, and 12th, respectively, by Jan. China-made vehicle registrations. In the same period, Tesla had 27,207 Shanghai-made vehicles registered, representing a 38.8% year-on-year growth mainly thanks to the substantial price cut it issued in early Jan.

The South Korean brand Hyundai was also among the top 20 brands list with over 20,000 made-in-China PVs registered last month.

Among all China-made PV models, the Sylphy still ranked highest in terms of Jan. registrations, but the Lavida dropped one spot over the previous month to the third place last month. The runner-up model was BYDs Song PLUS DM-i PHEV, which was also the best-selling SUV model.

On the list of the top 20 homemade PV models by Jan. registrations, there were seven new energy vehicle (NEV) models, namely, the Song PLUS DM-i, the Wuling Hongguang MINIEV, the Dolphin, the Model Y, the Yuan PLUS, the Model 3, and the Song Pro DM, four of which were under BYD brand.

Regarding regional distribution, Shanghai dropped to the second place among Chinese cities by Jan. registrations, while Chengdu became the highest-ranking one. Aside from the top 2 cities, both Zhengzhou and Chongqing also recorded a registration volume of over 30,000 homemade PVs each.

The five cities ranking 5th to 9thXi'an, Beijing, Wuhan, Guangzhou, and Shenzhenall posted a Jan. registration volume between 20,000 units and 30,000 units.

In Jan. 2023, China's monthly locally-made new energy passenger vehicle (NEPV) registrations came in at 290,894 units, sliding 6.99% from the previous year, while also plummeting 58.71% over a month ago.

By specific powertrain solutions, battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) logged a registration volume of 181,844 units in Jan., accounting for 62.51% of the country's total NEPV registrations. The plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) registrations reached 109,048 units, which included 86,314 range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs).

There were 2 fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) registered on the Chinese mainland last month. Nevertheless, its market share was hereby omitted due to its tiny quantity.

Regarding the NEPV registrations in Jan., BYD took a remarkable lead over other brands. It had 117,923 NEPVs registered last month, which were even more than the sum of the No.2-No.11 occupants. The U.S. EV brand Tesla was still credited the runner-up.

Among Chinese NEV startups, Li Auto was the best-performing one, ranking fourth among all brands by Jan. NEPV registrations. NIO also cracked the top 10 brand rankings with over 10,000 vehicles registered last month.





Some young NEV brands launched by Chinese legacy automakers, such as GAC Groups AION, Changan Autos Shenlan, and Geelys ZEEKR were among the top 20 brands list as well.

With respect to Jan. registrations, the Song PLUS DM-i topped other homemade NEPV models. On the top 20 NEPV models list, there were 11 under BYD brand, six of which entered the top 10 rankings. Notably, the DENZA D9, which ranked 15th, was also BYD Autos product.

Both the Model Y and Model 3 entered the top 10 NEPV models list. The Li L9 featured the most Jan. registrations among those owned by Chinese NEV startups.

In Jan. 2023, Shanghai outdid other cities on the Chinese mainland with 12,218 China-made NEPVs registered, which accounted for 37.69% of the city's overall PV registrations. It outsold the runner-up Shenzhen city by only 210 units.
Islamabad, Feb 27 : Of the 59 migrants who died after their overloaded boat capsized in stormy seas off Italys southern Calabria region, 28 were Pakistanis, officials said.

"As of a few minutes ago, the number of confirmed victims was 59," Vincenzo Voce, mayor of the coastal city of Crotone, told TV channel Sky TG-24.

According to the Pakistani embassy in Rome, besides others, 40 Pakistan were on board the ill-fated boat, Geo News reported.

The mission also said that the bodies of 28 Pakistanis have been fished out of the sea by the rescue officials, however, 12 more citizens are still missing.

The Pakistani officials further said that they are in contact with the Italian authorities, volunteers and maritime agencies in this regard.

The Embassy added that it is also in touch with the Pakistani community in the Calabria region and providing them with the latest information about the sad incident.

Meanwhile, Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said" "We are closely following the reports about possible presence of Pakistanis in the vessel that has capsized off the coast of Italy." Taking to Twitter, she said that the Pakistani embassy in Rome is in the process of ascertaining facts from the Italian authorities, Geo News reported.

Earlier, the coastguard service said, "43 bodies" had been found along the coast and "80 people recovered alive, including some who managed to reach the shore after the sinking".

The vessel had set sail from Turkey several days ago with migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran and several other countries, and crashed in stormy weather near Steccato di Cutro, a seaside resort on the eastern coast of Calabria.

One survivor was arrested on migrant trafficking charges, the Guardia di Finanza customs police said, Geo News reported.

Cutro's mayor, Antonio Ceraso, said women and children were among the dead. Exact numbers for how many children had died were not yet available.

His voice cracking up, Ceraso told the SkyTG24 news channel that he had seen "a spectacle that you would never want to see in your life ... a gruesome sight ... that stays with you for all your life".

Wreckage from the wooden gulet, a Turkish sailing boat, was strewn across a large stretch of coast.

Curra said the vessel left Izmir in eastern Turkey three or four days ago, adding that survivors had said some 140 to 150 were on board, Geo News reported.
Patna, Feb 27 : Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) President, Chirag Paswan has said that the people of Bihar are upset with the old political leadership in the state.

He also added that the people are looking towards young leaders to take the state to new heights with a fresh vision.

While speaking at a private conclave in Patna on Sunday, Paswan added that Bihar lags behind as compared to other states due to lack of visionary leadership.

"In any field, the talents are not lacking in any sector like media or medical sciences, Indian administration services or MNCs. Bihar failed to become a developed state only because the agenda was never set to achieve this," the LJP President said.

"We do not have policies for growth in education or industrial sectors. Even for agriculture, there are no food processing facilities. The leaders are busy with the age-old religion and caste politics to grab power. Unfortunately, no one is even talking about enhancing the qualities of these sectors. Unless youth leaders come forward with a new vision, the state will remain backward for the next 75 years," Paswan added.

He lamented that no government is working on connecting rivers that can help mitigate the impact of floods year after year.

Bihar is termed as an agrarian economy, but no government has the vision to develop proper irrigation systems or to set-up food processing units to help farmers increase the produce, process, pack and market it in other states, he said.

"Unless we don't talk about increasing per capita income, it is impossible to think about developing our state," Paswan added.

Human resource is a great asset of Bihar but the state is losing it to others. Brain drain has to be stopped, he said.

"Every family that can afford, send its children to other states for a good education. Since there is no job opportunity in Bihar, they stay away from Bihar. Ultimately they contribute to further develop the state they migrated to," he added.

He stressed on the need for a multi-pronged approach to accelerate the state's growth.

"We must work to develop infrastructure, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and the agro-industry simultaneously," Paswan said.
Washington, Feb 27 : A new vaccine for RSV for elderly may potentially increase the risk for Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), a rare neurologic disorder, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said.

GBS is often followed by a bacterial or viral infection that wreaks havoc on the nerves. In people afflicted with GBS, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to weakness and, sometimes, paralysis.

Currently, there is no approved vaccine or RSV -- a highly contagious virus that causes flu-like illness in people of all ages that increases in severity with age. After decades of trials, the first ever RSV vaccine is now slated for approval by August.

Two adults in their 60s who were part of 20,000 participants of Pfizer's Phase 3 clinical trial for RSV have been diagnosed with GBS. The FDA has, thus, asked Pfizer to conduct a safety study if the shot is approved, according to the recently published agency briefing documents.

While one person's illness had completely resolved after three months, and another was improving after six months. There were no cases among people who didn't receive the shot, the FDA document said.

Pfizer noted that the said cases may have other possible explanations -- one patient had a heart attack and the other had symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. Further, the company stated that its shot is a "well-tolerated and safe vaccine, with a benefit-to-risk ratio that is favourable".

But the FDA said that given the incidence of Guillain-Barre syndrome in the general population is about 3 cases per 100,000 people annually, Pfizer should view the incidents as an important potential risk in its safety surveillance.

Pfizer said it will conduct a safety study on Guillain-Barre syndrome if its RSV shot is approved.

"Given the temporal association and biological plausibility, FDA agrees with the assessments of the investigators that these events were possibly related to study vaccine. a Therefore, (Guillain-Barre) is being considered an important potential risk," the FDA documents said.

The Pfizer vaccine was 66.7 per cent effective at preventing moderated lower respiratory tract illness with two or more symptoms and 85.7 per cent effective at preventing severe illness, according to the FDA documents.

GSKaAs vaccine against RSV also showed a possible risk of GBS, but the company said there was insufficient evidence to confirm a diagnosis, CNBC.com reported.

GSK's RSV vaccine candidate for older adults was 83.5 per cent effective at preventing severe lower respiratory tract disease.

The company has listed Guillain-Barre as an important potential risk in its safety surveillance plan, according to the FDA. The agency said it will review the plan and make recommendations as needed.
Mumbai, Feb 27 : Former 'Bigg Boss 13' contestant Asim Riaz has recently spoken about the 13th season of the Salman Khan-hosted reality show in which the trophy was picked up by late actor Sidharth Shukla. He has slammed the makers for being biased and not letting him win the show despite being a strong contestant.

In an interview with RJ Siddharth Kanan, Asim said: "Mere dauraan unhone kya kiya (during my journey what they did), because they didn't want me to win, haanji bhai aaj hum online voting khol denge 15 min ke liye, jitana hai jitao jisko (they opened online voting and said, make whoever you want win). Come on man, just say you don't want to make me win, it's okay. You made it that obvious that we had to believe that you did whatever and I was like it's okay." However, many fans have reacted to his comment and asked him to move on from all this.

One of the social media users wrote: "This chap Asim is such a selfish man. He doesn't remember how Sidharth looked after him in the initial days. Now he's talking rubbish." Another mentioned: "Crybaby crying as always Sidharth was right." Yet other wrote: "Sid was a clear win!! Move on. You are here because of bigboss, and now everyone knows you because of that reality show, and now you are questioning that show. Such a cry baby." Apart from Asim and Sidharth, the other contestants on 'Bigg Boss 13' included Shehnaaz Gill, Rashami Desai, Paras Chhabra, Mahira Sharma, and Devoleena Bhattacharjee, among others.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) on Monday staged protest at Kaktiya Medical College in Warangal over the suicide of a post-graduate student due to harassment by a senior.

With Dharavathi Preethi succumbing on Sunday night after battling for life for five days, the ABVP workers took to streets in the town demanding justice for her family.

Carrying ABVP flags and raising slogans, the protestors marched towards Kakatiya Medical College (KMC) but were stopped by the police at the main gate. The protestors had an argument with the policemen, triggering tension.

As the protestors tried to barge into the campus, police arrested them and shifted them to a police station.

The ABVP men were demanding suspension of KMC Principal Mohan Das and Head of the Department Nagarjuna Reddy.

Preethi (26), a first-year student of the postgraduate (MD) in the department of Anaesthesia, attempted suicide on February 22 allegedly by taking a lethal injection while on duty at AMGM Hospital. She succumbed at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) on Sunday night.

The police have already arrested Preethi's senior M. A. Saif, a second-year student in the department of Anaesthesia.

Police said targeted harassment of Preethi by her senior could have driven her to commit suicide.

Police booked Saif for abetment to suicide. He was also booked under Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and Anti-Ragging Act.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur met top Tollywood actors K. Chiranjeevi and Akkineni Nagarjuna.

Chiranjeevi revealed on Monday that the Union Minister visited his residence in Hyderabad on Sunday.

The megastar took to Twitter to thank Thakur for taking time to drop by his place during his visit to Hyderabad on Sunday.

"Loved the delightful discussion we had along with my brother Nagarjuna about the Indian film industry and the rapid strides it is making," wrote Chiranjeevi.

Well-known producer and Chiranjeevi's brother-in-law Allu Aravind was also present during the meeting.

Anurag Thakur is said to be in regular touch with Chiranjeevi ever since he presented the actor 'Film personality of the year' award at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) at Goa in November last year.

The Minister had congratulated Chiranjeevi saying that he has had an illustrious career spanning almost four decades with over 150 films as an actor, dancer and producer.

Thakur noted that Chiranjeevi is immensely popular in Telugu Cinema and has given incredible touching-hearts performances.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : As millions of smartphone users in India face low battery issues during the day as most of the devices begin to die as evening approaches, realme is bringing industrys first 240W charging to its next flagship device in a bid to address those concerns.

Madhav Sheth, CEO realme India, VP, realme, and President, realme International Business Group, told IANS that the idea is to empower its upcoming device with not only more battery power but a leading feature to put 100 per cent juice in it in less than 10 minutes.

"We have seen unnecessary anxiety and stress among smartphone users who are at work, or connected to their family members via voice/video calls and suddenly realise there is little or no battery left. This creates panic as charging currently takes a lot of time," Sheth mentioned.

The 240W charging in the realme's upcoming device, to be showcased at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2023 in Barcelona, Spain, this week, "will charge the smartphone from 1 per cent to 100 per cent in about nine minutes and nine seconds", the realme top executive told IANS.

The company is set to launch a new GT series smartphone -- the Realme GT 3 -- which will be equipped with a 240W fast charging system.

The global smartphone brand Realme realer this week launched GT Neo 5 with 240W fast charging.

In the realme Lab, charging tests revealed that the phone heats up no more than 10 degrees Celsius and can withstand 1,600 charges from 0 per cent to 100 per cent while retaining 80 per cent of its capacity, according to reports.

Meanwhile, the Realme GT 3 is expected to house an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor and Adreno 730 GPU.

The Geekbench benchmark listing reveals the device will have 16GB RAM offering Android 13 experience.
London, Feb 27 : Essar Group, invested in Energy, Metals and Mining, Infrastructure and Technology sectors, has announced the formation of Essar Energy Transition (EET) to drive the creation of the UKs leading energy transition hub in North West England.

EET plans to invest a total of $3.6 billion in developing a range of low carbon energy transition projects over the next five years, of which $2.4 billion will be invested across its site at Stanlow, between Liverpool and Manchester and $1.2 billion in India.

The EET will include Essar Oil UK, the company's refining and marketing business in North West England; Vertex Hydrogen, which is developing 1 gigawatt (GW) of blue hydrogen for the UK market, with follow-on capacity set to reach 3.8GW; EET Future Energy, which is developing 1 GW of green ammonia in India, targeted at UK and international markets; Stanlow Terminals Ltd, which is developing enabling storage and pipeline infrastructure; and EET Biofuels, which is investing in developing 1 MT of low carbon biofuels.

EET's investment programme will play a major role in accelerating the UK's low carbon transformation, supporting the government's decarbonisation policy and creating highly skilled employment opportunities at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse economy.

The investments, across a range of hydrogen production technologies, decarbonisation, biofuels (road and aviation), and infrastructure projects, will contribute to North West England quickly becoming one of the leading post-carbon industrial clusters in Europe.

EET believes that these investments will support the reduction of around 3.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, around 20 per cent of the total industrial emissions in North West England.

The launch of EET heralds Essar's repositioning for growth and resurgence. Essar is now investing in new forward-looking assets with modern, efficient, and ESG-compliant technologies to last for several decades. Other sustainability investments planned by the Essar Group beyond EET include the creation of an LNG value chain in India, including LNG truck manufacturing and LNG fuel stations, setting up a pellet plant in Odisha, in eastern India and a 4-million tonnes per annum green steel complex at Ras-Al-Khair, Saudi Arabia.

EET's strategy is founded on the fact that hydrogen and biofuels are fast becoming globally significant fuels of the future and that the UK is positioned strongly to spearhead the rapid growth of the European low carbon fuels market.

The UK already benefits from an advanced regulatory and policy framework to support low carbon energy production, including the UK government's target of achieving 10GW of hydrogen production by 2030, alongside developing low carbon hydrogen infrastructure, expertise and significant customer demand.

Such is the scale of the market growth opportunity that EET estimates approximately two- thirds of its aggregate cash flows could come from diversified low carbon sources before the end of the decade.

As a core part of the HyNet cluster, Essar's Stanlow site already plays a prominent role in the UK's energy transition planning framework, following the selection of HyNet by the UK government in 2021 as one of only two hydrogen clusters in the country to potentially be supported through to full operations.

The Stanlow refinery itself will also achieve a 75 per cent reduction in carbon emissions before the end of this decade as part of EET's decarbonisation plans, making this strategically critical fuel supplier to the UK one of the most sustainable refineries in Europe.

In addition to the $2.4 billion investment in the UK, EET will also invest $1.2 billion in developing a cost-efficient global supply hub for low carbon fuels in India, including green hydrogen and green ammonia. Ammonia will be shipped from India to the UK, Europe and globally to meet expanding market demand for green hydrogen.

EET's investment in India will help deliver on the country's emerging hydrogen ambition. The Indian government's supportive regulatory framework is designed to help position the country as a leading global hub of green hydrogen production and exports, as set out in its National Green Hydrogen Mission, approved by the Centre on January 4.

Prashant Ruia, Director, Essar Capital, said: "The launch of EET is a major milestone in Essar's long-standing commitment to put the UK at the forefront of low carbon energy. We are excited about the opportunity to drive the UK's energy transition by producing low carbon future fuels which will help eliminate around 20% of the industrial carbon dioxide in Northwest England. In doing so, it will provide a blueprint for how traditional industries globally can be successfully transformed into hubs for the production of future energies." Tony Fountain, Managing Partner of Essar Energy Transition, said: "EET's ambitious investment plans will not only help deliver the UK's net zero ambitions and the enormous environmental benefits therein, but will also secure the long term sustainable future for Stanlow, protecting and creating new highly skilled job opportunities at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse economy for generations to come."
Patna, Feb 27 : The young politicians in Bihar are advocating the youth to join politics, with many of them claiming that it is their collective responsibility to start a new chapter in politics, which is development-driven.

Addressing an event in Patna on Sunday, RJD Spokesperson Ritu Jaiswal said: "It is heartening to see youth intending to join politics. Fresh faces are coming into politics at the panchayat, municipal corporation and district councils but they are shying away from the party-based politics of the country." She called upon youth to join politics because India is a democratic country where every policy is made by the politicians and elected leaders, right from panchayat to the Parliament.

Asking youth to join politics, BJP leader and social activist, Ranjeet Nirguni said: "Politicians are making policies for you that affect your entire life, right from birth to death. I appeal to them to come forward and make the change that you want to see." "We have a cadre culture where people are voting for national and regional parties. They are voting in the name of top leaders of the party instead of electing local representatives. Such a trend is actually hurting them as they are unable to elect representatives they want to," Nirguni added.

'Samarth Bihar' founder Sanjay Kumar said: "Today we need a leader for the state, not on the basis of their religion, caste or family. We need leaders who have a vision to develop the state. This can be achieved only when youth of Bihar join politics." Echoing Kumar's views, R.K. Mishra of the 'Jan Suraaj' said: "People want to see change in politics but they are staying away from it. They must come forward and become a part of it. Next-generation politicians must rise with their performance and build the state."
Noida, Feb 27 : Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla was admitted to a hospital here after he complained of chest pain and physical discomfort.

Shukla was rushed to Kailash Hospital located in Sector-27 of Noida late on Sunday night, where he is undergoing treatment.

According to the hospital staff, his condition is stable and he has been kept under observation.

Shukla hails from Rudrapur village of Uttar Pradesh's Gorakhpur district. He has been a four-time MLA, three-time Union Minister and a member of the Rajya Sabha.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On February 24, Horizon Robotics and BAIC Group officially signed an agreement to further strengthen their business cooperation in the field of intelligent driving.

Photo credit: Horizon Robotics

Per the agreement, the duo will work together to enhance the market competitiveness of their products. Specifically, Horizon Robotics and BAIC Group will jointly build leading intelligent driving solutions. Based on Horizon Robotics entire Journey series chips, the Beijing-based automaker will facilitate the development and application of several of its own intelligent vehicle models. According to their plan, the first mass-produced cooperative smart vehicle model is expected to be launched this year.

BAIC Group is one of the major legacy automakers in China. On the other hand, Horizon Robotics is a leading supplier of high-performance intelligent driving computing solutions, and is the first and largest factory-assembled mass-production automotive smart chip company in China. The cooperation between the two parties signifies the joint effort between vehicle manufacturers and key technology solution companies, reinforcing the technological innovation capability of China's automotive industry and the competitiveness of made-in-China products.

The two companies will jointly improve the R&D and application capabilities in the field of crucial intelligent driving components, promote the continuous implementation of smart driving functions, further strengthen the core technology foundation of BAIC Group's smart vehicles, and bring a better travel experience for users.
Kullu-Manali, Feb 27: Kasol, once an obscure village tucked away in the Himachal hills, has now gained notoriety as the "Amsterdam of India" as tourists looking for a high see it as the biggest hotspot for opiates, cannabis (weeds) and now "Chitta" -- a contaminated form of heroin. Kasol is also a gateway to Malana-the name that sells internationally for high-grade 'Malana Cream' heroin.

On Maha-Shivratri, when hundreds of devotees from Kullu had trekked the strenuous 14km path, while others drove to 'Bijli Mahadev' -- an ancient Lord Shiva temple, overlooking the spiritual town and Beas river, a group of spirited youths - all in their mid-twenties, checked into a quaint little home-stay at Kasol.

"We are from Bangalore, studying engineering and MBA courses. Kasol is a name that sells for different reasons. It drove us all here. Well, it coincides with Mahashivratri -- a perfect day to chill, and party!" one of the youngsters enthusiastically told this writer when asked about his trip.

Adventurers, back-packers and solo trekkers have completely transformed Kasol. The local economy has been booming exponentially under the shadows of unexplained 'mysticism'.

Other villages such as Pulga, Shalal, Kheerganga, Tosh and Parvati valley in an area stretching across 8 to 24kms that have also become places for night-life and full-moon "rave-parties".

Here, Hashish or marijuana drawn from illegally grown Cannabis, in its hybrid forms is easily available. Drug trafficking is an accepted trade that locals are increasingly using to market Parvati valley as an emerging drug abusers 'destination'.

For years, the valley remained the most favoured place for foreigners -- Australians, British, Israeli, US nationals, Russians, Italians and Polish but Anil Pradhan (name changed) - a taxi operator, says "after Covid -19, the Indians have become potential customers, primarily youths and teenagers-travelling from Southern states and Punjab, Haryana and UP in the northern region as well." Yet, a serious dimension to the illicit drug trade in Himachal Pradesh, particularly the Parvati valley, is the entry of "chitta"-a heroin derivative smuggled into Himachal Pradesh from Punjab. This is a highly addictive, lethal and dangerous form of narcotics being consumed by teenagers and youths, also resulting in drug overdose deaths, admits Sakshi Verma, a young IPS officer, who got posted as Superintendent of police, Kullu , a few days ago.

The police, as per intelligence inputs, claim that foreigners, especially Nigerians, based in Delhi are behind the supply of "Chitta" and synthetic drugs to many Himachal Pradesh towns. Lately, it has started coming from Punjab, where the drugs are smuggled from Pakistan through drones.

"The biggest concern is deaths due to the overdose of drugs. One or two drug overdose deaths every month is a common thing in the district. Persons under heavy drug intoxication, mostly youths, go missing as they usually fall off the cliffs. The search and rescue takes time and by then the person is dead. Not all such cases are reported to the police. The parents also try to cover it up to escape the social stigma and continue to allege foul play," reveals DC Kullu Ashutosh Garg.

Most of the areas where the drug addicts go for getting a high or attending rave parties are hazardous and inaccessible tracks. It's difficult for police to reach especially in the dark. By the time the police party reaches, they quietly wind-up and escape. They also have a strong informer network. It's difficult to penetrate or catch them. Some unscrupulous elements in the police are also alleged to be in connivance.

Director General of police Sanjay Kundu admits that the police are not oblivious to smuggling of tons of charas from Parvati valley, Malana ,Manikaran and these places like Rasol etc or "Chitta" reaching Manali and Kasol because of its increased demand at home-stays and those arriving to "chill".

"I have made a detailed presentation to Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu and the cabinet. I told them very honestly that five years down the line, Himachal Pradesh will slip down to a situation when it will be difficult to retrieve the state out of drugs, including synthetic drugs" he points out.

Kundu says "There are three sectors under focus - Kullu , Nupur in Kangra and Baddi-Brotiwala. At a strategic level, we have created a new police district in Nurpur, which is the gateway of heroin trafficking into the state from Punjab. We have requested the State government to convert the existing three Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) Units into ANTF Police Stations at Manikaran( Kullu), Kangra and Shimla to give them more teeth. We have also requested the government to establish ANTF Police Station in every district, starting with Nurpur and Baddi".

He stressed on a comprehensive action plan to stop smuggling and also abuse of the drugs.

The consumption of "Chitta" is highest in Kangra, Shimla, Una and Kullu districts. Small rural towns like Rampur, Rohru,Reckong Peo, Theog, Paonta, Baddi-Brotiwala and Una-Haroli.

Deputy Commissioner Kullu says "we are preparing for a comprehensive drive against drugs. An interdepartmental committee has been set up to undertake a thorough inspection of all hotels and home-stays mushroomed illegally in all vulnerable areas. The teams will be accompanied by the police." In Shimla, Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi,who earlier had launched a major offensive against drugs in Kangra, says "My priority is to break the supply chain of Chitta from Punjab and Delhi to Shimla and its sub-urban towns. The Chief Minister has given me a free hand to crack, arrest and prosecute whosoever is found involved in peddling, smuggling and trafficking." (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Feb 27: The Ukraine crisis is finally pushing Bangladesh into distinctly uncomfortable territory. In recent days, the Russian authorities have summoned Dhaka's ambassador in Moscow to the Foreign Ministry to demand an explanation behind Bangladesh's decision to bar Russian ships from entering its ports.

The Russian move has left Bangladesh worried. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam, responding to media queries on the ambassador being summoned by the Moscow authorities, let it be known that Ambassador Kamrul Ahsan was summoned to a meeting where overall Russia-Bangladesh ties formed the basis of the discussions. The minister's comments have certainly not allayed concerns in Dhaka about the strains the nation's foreign policy has come under against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war.

The Russians are miffed that Bangladesh, in line with the sanctions imposed on Russia by the United States and other western nations, has agreed not to allow any of the 69 Russian ships targeted by the sanctions from sailing into Bangladesh waters. In recent weeks, the Russian ship Ursa Major, carrying much needed raw materials for Bangladesh's Rooppur nuclear power plant, was not allowed into Bangladesh by Dhaka, clearly under pressure from the US authorities. The move did not make President Putin and his government happy. The upshot was of course the summoning of Bangladesh's top diplomat to the Foreign Ministry in Moscow.

There can hardly be any denying that when the Bangladesh envoy was summoned by the Moscow authorities, it represented a low in ties between the two countries. The Russian government pointedly referred to the Bangladesh move against Moscow's ships as a departure from the traditionally friendly links the two countries have enjoyed since Bengalis launched their War of Liberation from Pakistan in 1971. At the time, the Bangladesh cause gained urgency as well as a geopolitical dimension when the Soviet Union, along with India, identified with the Bengali cause and loudly denounced the atrocities of the Pakistan army in occupied Bangladesh.

While the Indian government of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi waged a political and diplomatic offensive in defence of Bangladesh in the nine months of the Bangladesh war, the Soviet Union reached a deal on friendship and cooperation with India in August 1971. It was seen as a move to thwart any move by other states, particularly the United States (which then was busy using Pakistan as a conduit to its China opening), to come in the way of Delhi-Moscow cooperation vis-a-vis Bangladesh. The agreement stood the test of time and even as the Pakistani forces faced a battlefield onslaught by the combined India-Bangladesh military command, the Soviet Union, led by the Brezhnev-Kosygin-Podgorny triumvirate, went out of its way to prevent a ceasefire at the United Nations that would curtail the offensive for the emergence of a sovereign Bangladesh.

Soviet support for their cause has been remembered with gratitude by Bangladesh's people, who witnessed the massive operations undertaken by the Soviet navy in the aftermath of the war to clear Chittagong port - and other ports - of the mines planted during the war. Besides, the Soviet Union, at the request of Bangladesh's founder-Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, came forth with various other forms of technical and economic assistance to enable Bangladesh recover from the ravages of war. The Rooppur nuclear plant was one area where the new state expected, and received, Soviet support.

This legacy of Moscow-Dhaka ties is today under strains, if not threat. Despite the break-up of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, Bangladesh maintained its traditional diplomatic and economic ties with the Russian Federation. Bengali students continued studies in Moscow while new doors were opened for Bangladesh's business community to engage with Russia.

Against such a backdrop of state-to-state links, the summoning of Dhaka's ambassador by Russia's Foreign Ministry marks a sudden and unwelcome deterioration in relations between the two countries. Unlike India, which through its global clout has adopted a firm stand in defence of its interests even as the Ukraine conflict lingers despite the discomfort felt by the West over Delhi's position, Bangladesh finds itself in a vulnerable position.

The moves made by the Sheikh Hasina government in recent years to operate a balanced foreign policy are sadly being undermined by western pressure on it to go along with the sanctions regime. The implications are obvious: much though Dhaka would like to put a spin on the situation arising out of its ambassador being called to the Foreign Ministry in Moscow, relations between Bangladesh and Russia, for the very first time, have gone into a tailspin. Creeping western pressure has done the damage.

Back in 1974, Bangladesh, in critical need of resources after the war and trying to tide over a famine, sought to engage in trade over its jute products with Cuba. The US PL-480 programme came in the way. Bangladesh's sufferings continued. It was also the year when Tajuddin Ahmad, the socialist Finance Minister in the government of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was compelled by the need for Dhaka and Washington to signal a new beginning to their ties to leave the government.

At the time, Dhaka was caught between a rock and a hard place. Decades on, it is a similar condition Bangladesh finds itself in. It is giving politicians and foreign policy experts in Dhaka much headache. And it has left tempers frayed in Moscow.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative

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New Delhi, Feb 27: The Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) released the January 2023 report about its activities and attacks on Friday.

A most important aspect it highlighted was the intensity of conflict in Balochistan - aerial patrols, drone attacks, night patrolling by spy planes and the use of helicopter gunships by the Pakistani military.

The eight-page report, released by BLF spokesperson Major Gwahram Baloch narrates the almost-daily assaults and raids that the group has carried out against the Pakistani army, the paramilitary and the police. It also mentions in interesting narration how the Pakistani army conducts its land and air operations against the Baloch fighters in the hills.

The most fascinating information in the report are the details of a two-day long operation carried out by the Pakistani army in Kech district on January 16 where the BLF lost four fighters. the report says that the army launched an aerial patrol in the eastern hills of Gwarkop in Kech, after which the BLF fighters dispersed in groups in different directions.

The BLF report says that drones unleashed bombs on the hills for two days and on January 17 military helicopters dropped commandos. It was in the clash with the commandos that the BLF lost four fighters.

The BLF carried out 23 attacks against the Pakistani security forces in January 2023 alone in which it killed more than 22 soldiers and injured 14.

These strikes included seven grenade attacks, sniper attacks and remote control explosions. These included attacks on military vehicles, checkposts, a military camp and setting up ambushes. The BLF also destroyed a mobile tower with explosives.

The BLA and its deadly Majeed Brigade have carried out some big attacks in Balochistan leading to considerable demoralisation in the security forces, particularly the Frontier Corps (FC).

Last year the BLF carried out daring attacks beginning in January when it launched a fire-raid on a check post on January 25, 2022 killing at least ten soldiers in Kech. A BLF annual report released earlier this year highlights how the fighters have kept the Pakistani paramilitary forces on their toes.

The BLA and its specialised guerrilla unit, the Majeed Brigade raided security force camps in Noshki and Panjgur in a gun and bomb attack and took over the camps for almost three days, keeping the army's rescue teams at bay.

It even claimed to have shot down an army helicopter in September - the second loss for Pakistan in just a few months.

With a seven-decade-long armed struggle for independence in Balochistan, that borders Afghanistan and Iran, the restive province is largely run by the Pakistani military. With the high intensity conflict, the authorities have imposed a blackout on the media. With China stepping into the province in pursuit of a dual-use port in the city of Gwadar, the Pakistani military has tightened its grip on Balochistan.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
Unnao, Feb 27 : A BA student has been arrested for taking the art paper of the ongoing Uttar Pradesh Board examination on behalf of his younger brother in Unnao district.

The accused, identified as Shadab of Sherpur Qalan, said that he appeared for the examination as his younger brother's drawing is "poor".

Shadab reached the examination centre, Shakuntala Devi Kashiram Vidyalaya in Mustafabad, during the first shift.

After about half-an-hour, a static magistrate reached the centre with a team.

During verification, the team found that Shadab was taking the examination in place of the actual candidate, Muqeem.

Shadab told the static magistrate Ram Lakhan that his younger brother's drawing was poor, therefore, he decided to appear on his behalf.

The team handed over Shadab to the police.

After interrogation, a case was registered against Shadab on the complaint of centre in charge Varsharani Mishra.

Inspector, Kotwali, Gyanendra Singh said that the accused was arrested on the basis of a complaint.

"Investigations are underway. The accused has been booked under charges of fraud, impersonation and cheating," the inspector said.

The centre in charge said that efforts were on to find out if Shadab had appeared for any other paper in place of his brother.

"We are scanning the CCTV footage for verification," she said.
Kathmandu, Feb 27 : The CPN-UML has decided to quit the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government in Nepal.

A secretariat meeting of the party held on Monday morning decided to quit the government after withdrawing its support.

The decision comes in the wake of a changed political equation in the run-up to the March 9 presidential election.

The party's decision also came after Dahal decided to join hands with the Nepali Congress, the CPN (Unified Socialist) and the Janata Samajbadi Party in a bid to revive the then ruling alliance formed under the leadership of former Prime Minister and President of Nepali Congress Sher Bahadur Deuba in the upcoming presidential election.

Relations between UML and the CPN (Maoist Center) was getting sour after Maoist Center whose chairman is Prachanda decided to support the presidential candidate of Nepali Congress.

The Nepali Congress was in opposition earlier but due to souring relations between UML's Oli and Prachanda, the Maoist Center decided to breakaway its ties with UML and joined the hands with UML on February 24.

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party on February 25 quit the incumbent government. With this decision, the Dahal-led government will tie up with Nepali Congress.

Besides Nepali Congress and CPN (Maoist Center), six other parties have supported the Nepali Congress's presidential candidate, Ram Chandra Poudel.

The UML had earlier decided to wait till the presidential election before taking a final call on whether to leave the government.

Bishnu Paudel, UML's vice-chairman, said the meeting decided to pull out of the government after the Prime Minister "started working in a different fashion".
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : An engineering third year student in Telangana's Warangal district has committed suicide as she upset over some photographs uploaded on social media by her two childhood friends.

Rakshitha (20) was found hanging from a ceiling fan at her relative's house at Ramannapet in Warangal town on Sunday night.

Hailing from Bhupalpally, she was a third year B.Tech (ECE) student at an engineering college in Narsampet.

According to police, the girl had a friendship with Jaswant and Rahul, who were her classmates in 10th class. She took the extreme step as they had uploaded some photographs taken in the past on social media.

Police booked against Jaswant and Rahul and formed special teams to apprehend them.

Police clarified that it was not a case of ragging as claimed on social media. A police officer said the two youths were not studying college.

Warangal police were also trying to get the information about the past record of Jaswant and Rahul.

Rahul was allegedly harassing the girl for some time. The family had lodged a complaint with Bhupalapally police, who had summoned the youth and counselled him.

Rakshitha, who had come home at Bhupalapally on Mahashivratri, left for college the next day. However, she did not reach the college and her parents had lodged a missing complaint with the police. Two days later, she returned home.

As she told her father P. Shankar that she was facing difficulties in staying at the hostel, he sent her to his brother's house at Ramannapet. She was to go to Bhupalapally police station on Monday in connection with the missing case. However, a day before she died by suicide at her uncle's house.
Bengaluru, Feb 27 : 'Sadhguru' Jaggi Vasudev on Monday said that there must be a street, circle or a square named after Kashmir in every major city across the country.

"Everyone in India must know what happened to Kashmiri Pandits," he stressed.

He made these statements while addressing the Kashmiri Pandit community at the Global Kashmiri Pandit Conclave on Monday, the official statement from Sadhguru-founded Isha Foundation said.

"We need to capture the narrative. I've been thinking of solutions, I've spoken to various aspects of the government regarding this but any solution you think of is being beaten down by somebody because they have the narrative in the world. I think shifting the narrative is very important," said Sadhguru on Saturday, describing the solutions for the plight of the Kashmiri Pandits.

The conclave was organised by Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD)- a Kashmiri Pandit civil society movement on Saturday.

The initiative aims to bring together all Kashmiri Pandits globally in exile on a single platform for the world to recognise the Kashmiri Pandit genocide and ethnic cleansing from Jammu and Kashmir.

Explaining ways of building the narrative, Sadhguru said, "I'm saying all across the country, you can demand from the Central government a tragedy that has unfolded in Kashmir, the injustice that has been done to the people, at least to acknowledge that. There must be in every city -- at least every major city across the country, there must be a street named after Kashmir -- a circle or a square named after Kashmir or there must be a Kashyapa mountain or a peak." "At least in India, everybody who lives in India must know that this has happened to our people," he said.

He encouraged the community to come up with small clips showcasing their plight to the world and said, "I feel you need like 10-20 minutes like ad films taking the suffering of individual families and highlighting it and melting people's hearts across the world. This is very important. We have come to a place in technology and reach where we don't need a theatre to spread the message. Just about everybody's phone, everybody's computer, it can be there." Tweeting about his address, Sadhguru urged the youth to take on the responsibility and rewrite Kashmir's destiny.

"My heart reverberates with empathy for every one of you for your immense suffering. Time to re-tell the Kashmir narrative. The youth of Kashmir must take on this responsibility and rewrite Kashmir's destiny. My best wishes & blessings are with you," Sadhguru tweeted.

"We cannot fix the past, but we can commit to ensure there is a future to celebrate. May the youth become a powerful & responsible channel in shifting the narrative & the future of #Kashmir. My support, best wishes & blessings are with you," he opined.

To ensure that Kashmiri rich cultural and spiritual identity is preserved, Sadhguru offered his support to the community to display their rich culture and history.

"If you want to come and do, let's say, one day 'Kashmir Day' in the South, we will provide you everything that you need. Present your literature, your art, music, everything, and let people come to know and also the stories. But let the stories be of the beauty and the power of Kashmiri culture, not just of the terrible things that have happened -- that also needs to be said but it's important that people vibe with you for who you are, not for just what happened, what was done by somebody else to you," he said.
Lucknow, Feb 27 : After being named as an accused in the murder of Umesh Pal in Prayagraj, former MP Atiq Ahmad's wife Shaista Parveen has written a letter to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath demanding a CBI probe into the incident.

In the letter, Parveen claimed that she and her family has nothing to do with the killings, adding that a high-level inquiry will clear all doubts.

Atiq Ahmad, his brother Ashraf, his two sons and wife Shaista Parveen have been named as accused in the murder case.

Parveen has also uploaded the letter to the Chief Minister's portal.

Meanwhile, Atiq's lawyer Khan Saulat Haneef has claimed that there is a threat to the lives of the two sons of the former MP, a concern highlighted by Parveen in her letter as well.

Atiq's two sons have been kept in police detention.

Haneef further said that police are conspiring to kill incarcerated Atiq and his brother Ashraf.

Shaista has said that she will approach the court to seek security for her family.

Recently, Shaista joined the Bahujan Samaj Party.

On the other hand, Puja Pal, the Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA whose husband Raju Pal was allegedly murdered by Atiq Ahmad's brother Ashraf in 2005, has written to Yogi, seeking enhanced security cover for herself.

Umesh Pal was the main witness in the Raju Pal murder case and his evidence was crucial to the case.

Puja Pal, referring to the Umesh Pal murder, said that she now fears for her life.
Mumbai, Feb 27 : Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who made her acting debut with the Telugu film 'Ye Maaya Chesave' in 2010, and received a lot of appreciation for her performance on the song 'Oo Antava' from 'Pushpa: The Rise', has completed 13 years in the film industry and she expressed gratitude towards her fans for giving her their love and support.

She posted a picture of colourful flowers and wrote in the caption: "The older I get, the farther I go. I just feel deeply thankful for all the love and affection and for each new day and all the good things it brings. So many things that used to affect me don't anymore. Just a wave of love and gratitude everyday. Thank you." Her friends and fans also congratulated her for successfully completing 13 years in the industry.

One wrote: "I know how and where you started and looking at how you are today makes me swell up with pride!! To 13 years of a career handled with Grace, Grit, Hustle, Talent, Integrity and a NEVER GIVE UP attitude..The New Chapter that has just started looks so good..Keep Going Iron Lady.." Another friend shared her old picture and wrote: "Look at this photo I found :) @instrogrammer clicked it 14 years back on our terrace :) Congratulations on 13 years @samantharuthprabhuoffl here's to plenty more." In her previous tweet also she mentioned: "I feel all of this love. It is what keeps me going. Now and forever, I am what I am because of you. 13 years and we are just getting started." On the professional front, Samantha is known for her works in Telugu and Tamil cinema including 'Dookudu' , 'Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu', 'Attarintiki Daredi, 'Kaththi', 'Theri', and thriller series 'The Family Man', among others.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Srinagar, Feb 27 : Former J&K Chief Minister and president of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti on Monday visited the family of Sanjay Sharma, the local Pandit killed by terrorists yesterday.

Mehbooba Mufti visited his bereaved family in Achan village of Pulwama district to express condolences and solidarity with them.

Mufti assured the family of all possible help they need in this tragic hour.

Sanjay Pandit was working as a security guard at a bank. He was killed by terrorists in his native village.

Condemning the innocent killing, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha said that the security forces have been given a free hand to hunt down the terrorists.

Four former Chief Ministers, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti and Ghulam Nabi Azad have condemned the brutal act of the terrorists.

Syed Altaf Bukhari, president of Apni Party said that those responsible for this innocent killing are enemies of the people of J&K.

A silent candlelight protest was held at many places in the Valley yesterday to condemn the killing of the local Pandit who was living with his family in his native village and had chosen to stay back with his Muslim neighbours in the village.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- ROX, the auto startup project founded by Chang Jing, the founder and CEO of Chinas intelligent cleaning robot company Roborock, has reportedly closed its Series E financing round, which was led by Tencent and IDG Capital.

Photo credit: ROX

The startup was founded in January 2021, and received its first round of financing three months after its establishment. In April 2021, ROX completed an angel round of financing, which valued it at $240 million, with investors such as Gaorong Capital and Northern Light Venture Capital.

In January 2022, ROX bagged $100 million in Series B financing, in which Tencent led a $50 million investment and Sequoia Capital also participated. In April 2022, ROX closed another round of financing with about $200 million raised, which boosted the startups valuation to $2 billion. The round was led by Coatue, a US hedge fund, and followed by Sequoia Capital, IDG Capital, and other well-known institutions.

In January 2023, it is said that ROX plans to launch its first vehicle model in the third quarter of the year. Similar to the Chinese tech giant Huaweis Huawei Smart Selection automaking pattern, it is possible that ROX will also cooperate with automakers, providing them with product definition, marketing, and core intelligence technologies, instead of producing vehicles independently. The most likely automaking partner to ROX is Beijing Automobile Works Co., Ltd. (BAW), said several local media channels.

The sources disclosed that ROX and BAWs first cooperative model may be a rugged-looking off-roader riding on a range extension system with an estimated price of roughly 400,000 yuan. In view of the industry's current average battery-powered range of about 200km, the intelligent range extension system of ROX is likely to carry a battery with higher energy capacity, to improve the overall range of the vehicle to more than 1,000km.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : A day after Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was arrested by the CBI in the liquor policy case, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that many officers of the central probe agency was against the move.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said: "I am told that most CBI officers were against Manish's arrest. All of them have huge respect for him and there is no evidence against him. But the political pressure to arrest him was so high that they had to obey their political masters." Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has launched nationwide protests against Sisodia's arrest.

Protests are taking place in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Bhopal, and several other cities.

Delhi Minister Gopal Rai said that AAP will observe a Black Day on Monday.

Delhi Police have deployed heavy forces at several places in the national capital, including CBI headquarters and also outside the AAP office to maintain law and order.

The party is also planning to protest outside the Bharatiya Janata Party Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg.

However, heavy security have been deployed to stop the demonstration.

Sisodia is scheduled to be presented in the Rouse Avenue Court at 2 p.m.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Centre to file a fresh status report on the ongoing investigation against climate activist Disha Ravi in connection with the alleged toolkit case against her over the 2021 farmers' protests.

According to the police, the "toolkit" on the farmers protest that Ravi with two others allegedly created was developed with an intention to "tarnish India's image".

The toolkit was distributed in the form of a Google Doc that went viral on Twitter.

A single-judge bench of Justice Prathiba M. Singh was dealing with Ravi's plea, who sought the court's direction to restrain police from providing any investigation material to the media.

Justice Singh said: "Let the Union of India file an affidavit as to the status of investigation and the current position." While she listed the matter for the next hearing on September 4, she directed that the affidavit be filed at least two weeks before it.

Appearing for Ravi, senior advocate Akhil Sibal said that a question which needs to be considered here is whether the investigating agency has the power and entitlement to identify and collect private data or investigation from a person who is under investigation.

"During the course of investigation, when the charge sheet is yet to be filed, you've collected private data and media starts reportinga," Sibal contended.

He added that no chargesheet has been filed in the case yet and that his client is out on bail.

"This cannot go on like this. It is an important matter, you cannot come without instructions," Justice Singh expressed her displeasure over the Police counsel appearing without proper instructions.

A court on February 23, 2021, granted bail to Ravi days after she was arrested from Bengaluru for allegedly editing a social media toolkit about the farmer protest against three farm laws.

The court had granted bail saying there was "scanty" and "sketchy" evidence to back charges of sedition against Ravi. It asserted that citizens could not be jailed simply because they disagreed with government policies Additional sessions judge Dharmender Rana had released the then 22-year-old activist on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh and two sureties of the same amount.

In her petition, Ravi claimed that she was viscerally attacked by Delhi Police and several media houses on the basis of leaked investigative matter and prejudicial press briefings.
Seoul, Feb 27 : Prinker Korea, a South Korean startup, claimed on Monday that LG Household & Health Care Ltd. has stolen the idea of its customised tattoo printing device, called Prinker M, and created a copycat product.

Prinker said LG H&H applied for a design patent under the name of "tattoo printer" in September 2020 after the two signed a nondisclosure agreement for a potential business partnership in June 2019.

The startup claimed LG H&H's portable temporary tattoo printer, called IMPRINTU, shares various similarities in terms of concept, design and size with Prinker M, noting LG H&H had purchased Prinker's devices, reports Yonhap news agency.

LG H&H admitted to having purchased Prinker's products but said it was part of a "routine market assessment" activity before entering into a new market.

"LG Household & Health Care's portable temporary tattoo printer, set to be revealed at the Mobile World Congress this week, is another example of a large conglomerate copying the concept, technology and the idea created by a smaller startup," Prinker said in a statement posted on its website on Monday.

The allegations, if verified, would be the latest case of an idea theft dispute between a small firm and a large conglomerate in South Korea.

Prinker said its portable tattoo printer, which can print various designs on human skin by using a mobile app, is available in about 80 countries, including the United States, France and Germany.

In January, French cosmetics giant L'Oreal decided to invest in Prinker, the startup said, without giving any details on the value of the investment.

Prinker said it has reported the case to the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, and plans to take legal actions against LG H&H for an alleged violation of the unfair competition prevention act.

LG H&H refuted Prinker's accusations, saying it has neither received any materials related to Prinker's technology nor had any type of communication -- telephone conversations, emails and meetings -- with the startup after signing the nondisclosure agreement in June 2019.

LG H&H also dismissed claims the tattoo printer concept is "exclusive" to Prinker, given Hewlett-Packard Company had already patented the idea back in 1999.

"LG H&H has been careful to avoid patents already existing in the market since the early development stages of IMPRINTU. We are a runner-up in the market and have been working with companies such as LG Electronics, HP and others since 2019," the beauty giant of LG Group said.

A slew of idea theft disputes between startups and large conglomerates have been brewing in South Korea.
Karnataka: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being gestured by the BJP senior leader BS Yediyurappa at the inauguration of the Shivamogga Airport, in Karnataka on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. (Photo: PIB/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Karnataka: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being felicitated by BJP leaders at the inauguration of the Shivamogga Airport, in Karnataka on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. (Photo: PIB/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Karnataka: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP senior leader BS Yediyurappa wave to supporters at the inauguration of the Shivamogga Airport, in Karnataka on Monday, Feb. 27, 2023. (Photo: PIB/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Shivamogga, : Feb 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday showered praises on Lingayat strongman and former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on his 80th birthday and stated that his speech in Karnataka Assembly will serve as an inspiration for all in public life.

Speaking after inaugurating Shivamogga airport, Prime Minister Modi, said that Yediyurappa dedicated his life to the poor and farmers. "His speech last week in the Karnataka Assembly is an inspiration to every Indian who is in public life. Yediyurappa has shown how to remain humble despite reaching heights," he said.

PM Modi also asked the crowd to flash lights on their mobiles. He then asked them to raise their hands and wave in respect and honour of Yediyurappa.

"Yediyurappa in his public life of 50 to 60 years has put the Karnataka on the path of progress. He had sacrificed his entire youth to ideology," he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Yediyurappa stated that Prime Minister Modi - a leader appreciated throughout the world - inaugurating Shivamogga airport is a matter of great joy for him. "PM Modiji had promised me that he would inaugurate Shivamogga airport on my birthday," he recalled.

"In my 55 years of political life, I was in power for seven years during which, I have strived to ensure growth of all, across the state. This I have done with the blessings of PM Modi," Yediyurappa stated.

"Late PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee attended my 60th birthday in Bengaluru. He said, usually he doesn't attend such programmes but because he likes me, he is attending it. I still cherish fond memories. Now, my 80th birthday is also made memorable," he stated.

The gesture of PM Modi has assumed importance in the poll-bound Karnataka. Yediyurappa represents the Lingayat community which plays an important role in elections. Opposition party leaders have been maintaining that Yediyurappa is being snubbed by the BJP high command and trying to break the Lingayat vote bank which is firmly standing with BJP. By applauding Yediyurappa and showering him with praises, the Prime Minister has sent out a signal to the Lingayat community, the sources said.
Kolkata, Feb 27 : A division bench of Calcutta High Court on Monday cleared BJP's plea to file a PIL over the attack on the convoy of Union Minister of State for Home Nisith Pramanik in West Bengal allegedly by the ruling Trinamool Congress activists.

Immediately after the attack, the state unit of BJP in West Bengal sought attention of the Calcutta High Court's Chief Justice Prakash Srivastava and Justice Rajasrshi Bharadwaj to file a petition in the matter and the High Court on Monday approved the plea for filing a petition in the matter.

The plea was made on behalf of BJP by Suryanil Das, an advocate by profession. It has been learnt that once the PIL in the matter is filed, it will come up for hearing during the current week only at the same division bench.

On Saturday while Pramanik reached Dinhata in Cooch Behar district to attend a pre-scheduled programme, the ruling party activists started agitating surrounding his convoy, flashing black flags.

The situation got tense as Trinamool and BJP supporters clashed with each other, throwing brickbats and stones, smashing the glass window of Pramanik's car in the process.

The minister, however, did not sustain any injury as his security personnel safely escorted him out of the area, which by then had turned into a virtual battlefield. In the same evening, the Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal Suvendu Adhikari met Governor CV Ananda Bose and explained the matter to him.

On Sunday evening, the Governor issued a strong-worded statement decrying the attack on the Union minister's convoy, which was retorted in equally strong words by Trinamool Congress' state general secretary and party spokesman in West Bengal, Kunal Ghosh.
Kohima, Feb 27 : Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday expressed his hope that the Naga political dialogue would soon end with a positive solution.

After casting his vote at Tuophema polling station in Kohima district, he said that it is very encouraging that NSCN-IM and the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) earlier issued a joint declaration that they would strive forward to expedite the Naga peace talks with the central government.

Eight other Naga armed groups a few years back came together under the banner of NNPG.

The Union government has been holding separate talks with the NSCN-IM and the Working Committee of NNPGs since 1997 and 2017 respectively.

The Framework Agreement with the NSCN-IM was signed in August 2015 and the Agreed Position with NNPGs in November 2017.

The NSCN-IM had entered into a ceasefire agreement with the Centre in 1997 and has held over 80 rounds of talks -- within and outside the country -- but nothing substantial came out as the Government could not allow them to have a separate constitution and flag.

Rio, also a top leader of ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), is seeking re-elections from the Northern Angami-II Assembly seat. "The NDPP and the BJP would comfortably come back to power with more than the absolute number of seats," he told the media.

The NDPP is contesting the election in 40 seats while its ally the BJP has fielded candidates on 20.

In all, 12 political parties comprising national and state parties are in the fray.

The Congress has given tickets to 23 candidates, while the Naga People's Front is contesting in 22 seats.
Mumbai, Feb. Feb 27 : On expected lines, the 14 MLAs of the Shiv Sena (UBT) were seated in the Opposition benches on Monday along with the Congress, Nationalist Congress Party and other parties on the first day of Maharashtra Legislature Budget Session.

Hoping to avert a potential row over the seating arrangements, the government side alloted the Sena (UBT) seats in the Opposition block.

SS(UBT)'s group leader in the house Ajay Chaudhari and Aditya Thackeray were given front seats next to the NCP and Congress leaders, and other MLAs were seated in the Opposition side.

The developments came after the Election Commission of India recognised the group led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as the original Shiv Sena and gave it the name and 'Bow-and-Arrow' symbol 10 days ago.

Last week, Speaker Rahul Narwekar had stated that as per the House records, there is only one Shiv Sena, creating uncertainties among the Sena (UBT) MLAs.

The Sena (UBT) has also urged the Speaker to allot an office to them after the Shiv Sena occupied the existing party office on the third floor of the legislature building.

In the meantime, the Sena (UBT) legislators are using the office of Leader of Opposition (Council) Ambadas Danve on the ground floor of the Vidhan Bhavan.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : Family of medical student Dharavathi Preethi, who died by suicide due to alleged harassment by her senior at Kakatiya Medical College, on Monday claimed that it was not suicide but a murder and demanded death penalty for the guilty.

Preethi, a first year student of the post graduate (MD) in the department of Anaesthesia at Kakatiya Medical College (KMC) in Warangal, succumbed at a hospital in Hyderabad on Sunday night, five days after she allegedly took a lethal injection.

Last rites of the 26-year-old tribal were performed at Girni Thanda in Jangaon district this afternoon.

Preethi's family, however, demanded that the authorities reveal what happened to her on the intervening night of February 21 and 22 when she was on duty at MGM Hospital in Warangal.

Her father Narendra claimed that Preethi did not commit suicide but was murdered. Alleging that someone gave a lethal injection to his daughter, he demanded police to conduct the investigation from this angle.

Narendra, an assistant sub-inspector in Railway Protection Force, said that his daughter was not a coward to end her life.

He also demanded that a probe by a sitting judge be conducted only after suspending the head of the anesthesia department at Kakatiya Medical College (KMC).

Preethi's sister Puja said the guilty should be immediately hanged. "He should be hanged to ensure that no other girl has to face this," she said.

Leaders of some political parties, student groups and tribal organisations attended the funeral. Madiga Reservation Porata Samithi (MRPS) leader Manda Krishna Madiga was among those present.

Preethi's sister said since senior students troubling juniors is common in colleges, they never thought that the matter would take such a serious turn. Her sister, she said, had in her nature to question the wrong and she was not like others who compromise after seniors trouble them.

"I told her if you can't bear this, just slap him and come home. Don't take tension. Nothing will happen. We will take care," said Puja, a software engineer.

Preethi was the youngest of three sisters. After completing MBBS from Kamineni Medical College in Nalgonda, Preethi had secured a PG seat at KMC and her classes had started in November.

She said they were proud of what Preethi had achieved as no one in their extended family had become a doctor. Even the Banjara community, to which they belonged, has only a few doctors.

Puja said their parents sold all property to give them a good education. Her other sister works with CBSE while their only brother is pursuing MBA.

Warangal police on February 24 arrested Preethi's senior M. A. Saif, a second year student in the department of Anaesthesia.

Police said that targeted harassment of Preethi by her senior could have driven her to attempt suicide.

Police booked Saif for abetment to suicide. He was also booked under Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and Anti-Ragging Act.

Warangal Police Commissioner A. V. Ranganath said that insulting behaviour also comes under ragging.

According to police, Saif was making insulting comments about her in a WhatsApp group.

Late on Sunday night, tension prevailed at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) past midnight as the victim's family refused to allow the body to be shifted to Gandhi Hospital for autopsy till the government explained the cause of death and suspended the head of the department and the principal.

The family relented after the government gave them some assurances. Victim's father D. Narendra told reporters that while the government announced Rs 10 lakh compensation, minister for panchayat raj E. Dayakar Rao promised Rs 20 lakh.

Narendra said the minister also assured them that a government job in the panchayat raj department will be given to a family member.

Dayakar Rao also reportedly assured the family that the case will be investigated by a sitting judge.

Narendra said the minister also told them that action would be taken against the head of the department and the principal.

Leaders of some opposition parties and students' groups tried to stop the ambulance carrying the body to Gandhi Hospital. They wanted to take the body to Pragati Bhavan, the official residence of the chief minister.

Police arrested the protestors and shifted them to police stations.

The body was later shifted to Gandhi Hospital and after autopsy handed over to the family. Preethi's body was later taken to her native village in Jangaon district.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday held protests across the country after Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was arrested by CBI in connection with the alleged corruption in the now-scrapped excise policy.

Protests are being staged in Chandigarh, Delhi, Bhopal and other cities amid heavy police deployment.

Since morning, several AAP workers and leaders had gathered at AAP headquarters in Delhi even as police erected barricades on several roads leading to DDU Marg where both the BJP headquarters and the AAP office are located.

The Rapid Action Force and CRPF with riot gear have also been deployed in the area.

AAP national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday claimed that most of the CBI officers were opposed to arresting his deputy Manish Sisodia but did so due to political pressure.

"I am told that most CBI officers were against Manish's arrest. All of them have huge respect for him and there is no evidence against him. But the political pressure was so high that they had to obey their political masters," Kejriwal said in a tweet.

Meanwhile, the AAP spokesperson, Saurabh Bhardwaj said that the long detention of its leaders was illegal and drew a parallel between former prime minister Indira Gandhi's emergency era and the present.

The Delhi Police on Sunday detained 36 AAP leaders, including Sanjay Singh (Rajya Sabha MP), Gopal Rai (MLA and Delhi Minister), Rohit Kumar Mehraulia (Trilokpuri MLA) and Dinesh Mohnia (Sangam Vihar MLA), for violating the provisions section 144 CrPC imposed in South District.

"They were detained at around 12.40 p.m. on Sunday from Lodhi Road near CGO picket and taken to the Fatehpur Beri police station," said a senior police official, adding that they were released on Monday noon.
Los Angeles, Feb 27 : 'The Whale' actor Brendan Fraser made an emotional speech to the leading lights in the acting world. The actor, 54, secured the award for Outstanding Performance by a male leading actor in the Darren Aronofsky-directed drama, at the 29th annual ceremony of Screen Actors Guild awards.

Fraser gave a passionate acceptance speech in which he praised SAG for his 'acceptance' back in 1991 and used his speech to spur on fellow actors who may be struggling in the industry adding: "I know how you feel", reports Mirror.co.uk.

Holding out his award from the podium, he told the audience: "I will treasure this, but never more than what I treasured - what I used to keep in my wallet, which was my SAG card that I earned in 1991," he said.

"It made me feel like I belong. As actors we all want to belong to a tribe and that's when I found where I belonged. If you told that guy back then, that I'd be standing here - I would not have believed you." 'The Whale' tells the story of a morbidly obese English teacher, Charlie (Brendon Fraser), as he tries to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter, Ellie (Sadie Sink).

As per Mirror.co.uk, the star described his award-winning role as character Charlie as the "the role of my life" and said he related to his character's plight describing a poetic parallel of riding waves on 'a raft of regrets'.

Fraser fought off a tough category which included Austin Butler for 'Elvis', Colin Farrell for 'The Banshees of Inisherin', Bill Nighy for 'Living' and Adam Sandler for 'Hustle'.
PAHRUMP, Nev.A licensed sex worker and activist wants to help persuade California legislators to draft a bill aiming to decriminalize sex work and legalize prostitution across the state. Alice Little, a high-profile sex worker operating out of the Chicken Ranch legal brothel near Las Vegas, is scheduled to meet with San Francisco Supervisor Hillary Ronen next week in order to provide a first-hand perspective on sex work from a woman that has been safely and successfully operating as a legal prostitute in a non-criminalized environment.

San Francisco ABC News interviewed Little regarding the merits of Nevadas legal brothel industry and how a similar model may benefit California. Watch it here.

Supervisor Ronens desire to meet with Little and other sex workers follows Ronens recent resolution pushing to legalize sex work in California. Ronens controversial proposal is in response to an ongoing sex trafficking problem in San Franciscos Mission District near 21st and Capp streets.

Said Little, "As someone working in Nevadas legal brothel industry for the past six years, I want to help shape the future of sex work in America and ensure that every state in the union has a system that values everyone involved."

In the early 1970s, Nevada legalized prostitution in the form of regulated brothels located in several rural counties throughout the state. Sex workers operating as independent contractors in Nevadas legal brothels must undergo an FBI background check to obtain their license and must test weekly for sexually transmitted diseases in order to be cleared to provide sexual services. All brothel owners also undergo a highly extensive personal and financial review before being granted a license, ensuring that these business owners are above board and are not connected to criminal activities, including sex trafficking.

Little strongly believes in the merits of no longer criminalizing prostitution between consenting adults, and she has successfully fought against a movement to outlaw legal brothels in Nevada. In 2018, an anti-prostitution group managed to get an advisory question on the ballot in Lyon County, Nevada in order to persuade commissioners to rescind the countys brothel ordinance. Little and other Nevada sex workers organized a series of town hall meetings to educate the countys voters about sex work, specifically focusing on how stigma surrounding the profession fuels misinformation and harms sex workers. Littles campaign was tremendously successful, resulting in 80 percent of residents voting in favor of keeping prostitution legal in Lyon County.

Little went on to co-found the Nevada Brothel Association, a political lobbying group that provides a voice for brothel owners and sex workers in the Silver State.

Little now wants to leverage her experience for the betterment of California sex workers, and assist Supervisor Ronen in combatting sex work stigma.

Added Little, "Supervisor Ronens resolution will hopefully be the first step forward in making California a safer and more prosperous place for sex workers to operate. I want to do everything in my power to enable her success."

Photos of Little are accessible here for publication.

Learn more about Little at her official site thealicelittle.com. Find and follow her on Instagram, OnlyFans, and YouTube.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Traffic chaos was witnessed near ITO and other nearby areas after the Delhi Police on Monday closed the Deen Dayal Upadhyay (DDU) Marg for vehicular movement in the wake of a protest staged by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the wake of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's arrest.

In a tweet, the Delhi Traffic Police said: "Traffic will remain affected on DDU Marg in the carriageway from Minto Road towards ITO and vice-versa due to special traffic arrangements. Commuters are advised to avoid this stretch." Traffic was also moving at a slow pace near the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) headquarters at the CGO complex due to barricades put up by the police.

Meanwhile, commutters also took to social media to complain about the traffic situation.

"After the DDU Marg was closed around 11 a.m., I had to take an alternative route to reach my workplace but it took me an hour to reach here at my office at Civic Centre," said Vikas, a resident of Timarpur.

There is heavy deployment of Rapid Action Force and police personnel outside both the BJP and AAP headquarters on DDU Marg.

The AAP is staging nationwide protests against Sisodia's arrest by the CBI in the liquor policy case.
Barcelona, Feb 27 : Global technology brand Lenovo has showcased a refreshed version of its 'IdeaPad Duet 3i' laptop, with bigger display, new processor options and more port options, at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2023.

The new IdeaPad Duet 3i features a detachable 'Folio Case' that serves as both a cover and a keyboard, keeping the same design as its predecessor, reports Gizmochina.

The refreshed 2-in-1 device comes with an 11-inch IPS touch display featuring a 5:3 aspect ratio, with the ability to display 100 per cent of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and delivering a maximum brightness of 400 nits.

The IdeaPad Duet 3i weighs 697 grams and is a versatile PC that features the latest Intel N100 or N200 platforms, and also comes with Windows 11 Home or Pro.

Moreover, the laptop features two USB Type-C ports and a 3.5mm jack, among which, one USB Type-C port supports Rapid Charge Boost technology which is said to recharge the device for up to 2 hours of usage in just 15 minutes.

The device also has a 5MP front sensor and an 8MP rear camera.

The IdeaPad Duet 3i series starts at Rs 449 pounds ($476) in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) regions and will be available in June this year.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 27 : Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday condemned the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the liquor policy case.

Taking to Twitter, he said, "The arrest of @msisodia by CBI is another example of how @BJP4India misuses the Union Government's agencies to intimidate the opposition. It's a blatant abuse of power and an attack on democracy. Such repression undermines the very foundation of our nation and should be resisted." His tweet came hours after his assistant private secretary C.M.Ravindran skipped Enforcement Directorate (ED) summons to appear before its Kochi office. Instead, Ravindran sent an e-mail saying that as he is busy with the ongoing Assembly session that resumed its sitting on Monday after a break, he will not be able to appear before it.

Ravindran's email comes at a time when the chief minister's former principal secretary M. Sivasankar, who retired on January 31, is presently in jail after three days of questioning early this month in the now-controversial pet project of Vijayan- Life Mission case.

A huge sum of money had allegedly exchanged hands which was revealed by Swapna Suresh- the prime accused in the gold smuggling case and also in the Life Mission flat bribery case.
Bengaluru, Feb 27 : Congress' Karnataka unit President D.K. Shivakumar on Monday said that the Raipur convention has given a new direction to the party, with discussions on how the opposition should move unitedly and how to prepare for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking to reporters, Shivakumar stated the convention has also been discussed to implement decisions taken during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. "But, the matters related to Karnataka were not discussed. The focus was on the policy of the party at the national level," he said.

He also said that senior high command leaders will come down to Karnataka for campaigning. In three to four days, the list will be released, he said.

Shivakumar also said that that the Congress holds the reins in the state. "PM (Narendra) Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah will not come to the state and carry out administration. Let Modi, Shah come to panchayats, taluks and districts for campaigning. They have a double engine (government), let them drive the vehicle wherever they want," he said in a mocking reference to the repeated visits of both the leaders to the state.
Wellington, Feb 27 : Weeks after cyclone Gabrielle hit New Zealand leaving at least 11 dead and displacing thousands, the Sikh community has cooked and delivered more than 7,000 meals so far to those in need.

When Gabrielle hit the island's northern region on February 12, and power went out, the Sikh community in Hastings swung into action knowing there were going to be a lot of people without food.

"My first thought was that people need food so why not cook in large quantities," Sukhdeep Singh, a volunteer, told NZ Herald.

He then made his way to the Eastbourne St gurdwara in Hastings, where he cooked meals along with a team of young volunteers and priests. The team cooked and delivered more than 600 meals that day.

"Our main focus was delivering to the evacuation centres for the first three to fours days, then we started the rest of Hawkes bay," he told NZ Herald.

For the next three days, the community worked on identifying the locations to distribute warm meals free of cost to people affected.

Sukhdeep Singh and his team spent a lot of time coordinating with Civil Defence centres to help with supplies like rice, lentils and food containers.

The Hastings temple along with Havelock's Guru Ravidass temple managed to bring out 1,000 meals combined every day in order to meet high demand for food.

"Both temples are doing a service to the community during these challenging times. We are blessed and grateful to get an opportunity to serve our communities," Sukhdeep Singh told Herald.

Thousands of people have been displaced due to the calamity, the level of which New Zealand has not seen since the Christchurch earthquake in February 2011, according to authorities.
London, Feb 27 : The boss of the feared Russian Wagner mercenary group has called for the Russian Defence Minister's son-in-law to be "raped" or "given the sledgehammer", a media report said.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin threatened to have his men bring Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu's son-in-law Alexey Stolyarov (33) to him so he could be trained to go and fight in Ukraine, Daily Mail reported.

Prigozhin said the fitness influencer could be 'raped' or face the notorious 'sledgehammer' that Wagner has used to kill defectors, as the bitter rift between Vladimir Putin's top military cronies spirals out of control, the report said.

The Wagner chief, like General Shoigu, is a close Putin crony, but the two men loathe each other.

In a new onslaught, Prigozhin demanded that Stolyarov - who avoided the military draft and is the partner of Shoigu's 32-year-old daughter Ksenia Shoigu - should be trained for war.

"I can give instructions on what needs to be done - it is necessary to catch Stolyarov and bring him to me," said Progozhin, Daily Mail reported.

"I will train him for six weeks. I will help him improve by sending him to combat operations. Before that he can be [raped]," he added.

Prigozhin also ranted that "we ought to pick up a sledgehammer, and deal with it in an adult way, leaving humour aside".

At least one convicted murderer, Yevgeny Nuzhin (55), was bludgeoned to death with a sledgehammer for deserting Wagner's frontline, and there are reports that there were more such cases.

Prigozhin has raged against the Defence Minister, especially over the slow supply of ammunition and weapons to his forces who comprise volunteers and convicts released to fight for Putin. He has labelled such failings as treachery, Daily Mail reported.

Prigozhin is seen as wanting General Shoigu to be fired, amid rumours that he craves the Defence Minister's job himself.
Barcelona, Feb 27 : Chip maker Qualcomm on Monday announced the latest addition to its growing Snapdragon Digital Chassis connected car technology portfolio with its Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2 at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2023 in Barcelona.

Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF systems are the world's first commercial modem-to-antenna 5G solution.

Sampling today with global automakers, it will be commercially available in late 2023, said the company.

"As the culmination of Qualcomm Incorporated's more than 20-year history connecting cars with our telematics or auto connectivity platform, the Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2 further harnesses the power of 5G for vehicles to assist automakers in democratising access to smart, connected vehicle experiences," Nakul Duggal, Senior Vice President and GM, automotive, Qualcomm Technologies, said in a statement.

The new Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2 platform will provide 50 per cent more processing power, 40 per cent power efficiency gains, and greater than two times the maximum throughput for secure, reliable and seamless connectivity, as compared to the previous generation.

Equipped with the latest advancements in 5G, car owners will now have the broadband to enjoy the comfort and convenient experiences of a vehicle, home and office in one space.

"5G will continue to unlock the future of automotive and transportation, and we're proud to accelerate the pace of wireless innovation in these industries," Duggal added.

Moreover, the Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2 will also introduce a new form of communication to the automotive industry with support for satellite communications, helping to ensure connectivity is ubiquitously available for applications that utilise two-way messaging.

It will also deliver ultra-low latency for safety applications and mission-critical services to enable improved media streaming, and cloud gaming along with premium navigation and mapping, according to the company.

Further, it will support a comprehensive connected services platform powered by Snapdragon Car-to-Cloud Services, enabling connected services for dynamically configurable, software-defined vehicles.
Dumka : , Feb 27 (IANS/ 101 Reporters) The Central governmen's ambitious plan to provide tap water connection to every household in the country has not eased the water woes in remote villages of Jharkhand. In quite a few places, it has proved to be counterproductive.

After the launch of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in 2019, all existing water supply projects were brought under the nationwide scheme. The rationale was that a village cannot benefit from two different government-run water schemes.

The tribal villagers of Dumka district mostly depend on hand pumps (chapanals) and natural water sources (jorias) to meet their water needs. However, water shortage usually peaks during summer (March-June), making even contaminated water valuable.

Despite the grim situation, neither new chapanals were installed nor defunct pumps were repaired ever since the JJM came into existence. Similarly, the solar pumping system under the scheme also did not come to fruition in most places due to several reasons, including issues related to land acquisition and eligibility criteria.

For instance, 70 Bengali and 40 Santal tribal families residing in four hamlets in Murgathol village of Dumka district's Masalia block get their drinking water from just two hand pumps. For other purposes, they depend on a contaminated well.

"There is only one chapanal in our tola (village portion) Narayanpur," said Sumitra Pujharni (30) from Ranga gram panchayat, which was adopted by Jharkhand's tallest leader and former Chief Minister Shibu Soren under the Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana. Though the hand pump is located just 100 m from her home, she takes around four hours daily to fetch water as everyone depends on the same facility. She has to repeat the task seven to eight times a day, while balancing household chores and taking care of her three children.

Admitting that no new hand pumps have been installed in Dumka post-JJM, Mahendra Baitha, Sub-Divisional Officer, Drinking Water and Sanitation Department, Dumka, said repairs were affected mostly due to lack of necessary material/resources or because it was a bore-related issue.

Non-availability of water even after deep drilling is one of the many reasons affecting projects here. "Two-and-a-half months ago, borewell drilling was done up to a depth of 250 ft, yet water could not be sighted. Due to this, solar tank installation under JJM has been stalled," said Saloni Hembram, an elderly woman.

"Even this has been non-functional for the past three years," she said, pointing to a rusty hand pump next to the drilled area. Sanatan Pujhar, Bileshwar Murmu and Maniya Murmu of Sarmundi complained in unison that they were forced to drink contaminated water due to the inefficient implementation of projects.

"Three chapanals in our village are dysfunctional. Women had complained at the block office, but nothing happened," said Osit Dhivar of Murgathol. Kajal Pujhar of Ranga said two chapanals in her area have been in need of repair. "We have not complained, we know nothing will happen," she sounded hopeless.

Fourteen of the 24 districts in Jharkhand are part of the 117 aspirational districts selected from across the country. Aspirational districts and villages with tribal population get priority under the scheme. Under the JJM, Dumka's performance has been dismal at below 25 per cent in September last. Since then, it has made slight progress to touch 33.68 per cent as on February 2. Right now, Dumka is ranked at 589 in the country in terms of providing tap water and 82 in the list of aspirational districts.

Only Ramgarh district has made good progress with tap water provided to 60.04 per cent households. Simdega's performance is also satisfactory (48.36 per cent). However, Pakur (8.07 per cent), Godda (16.46 per cent), Palamu (18.08 per cent), Jamtara (21.23 per cent) and Chatra (24.96 per cent) have been severely lagging behind. In all, while 57.16 per cent of households in the country got the scheme's benefit so far, it is only 29.99 per cent in Jharkhand.

Teething troubles Water is sourced from rivers/dams only for high-capacity towers that serve around 60 families. For the smaller structures built under JJM, borewells have to be dug first. "Ramgarh and Saraiyahat blocks in Dumka district and the entire Godda get water from the Ganga. Pakur also draws a portion of its water from the river.

Asked why the scheme was lagging behind, Sanjay Kumar Jha, JJM Chief Engineer for Jharkhand, told 101Reporters that water availability was a big issue. Citing a case, he said: "In Santal Pargana, the borewell did not yield enough water to lift. It also dried up in summer, which put a spanner in the works." However, Tapan Ghevar of Murgathol blamed it on administrative reasons. "An electricity-powered water tank was built in the village three years ago, but it has not started functioning. We thought we could benefit from JJM's solar water facility. But officials told us that we cannot have a solar tank because we already have a water tower in place." Explaining the issue, Sukhen Gorain told 101Reporters that his family's eight kattha land was acquired for water tower construction under the Rs 4.84-crore Godmala water supply scheme around six years ago to cater to all villages in the district, except Rampur, via an intake well on River Nunbil. "Two years have passed after tower construction under the JJM, but we are yet to receive compensation," he said.

However, Mahendra Baitha claimed the family members were demanding better compensation for the acquired land, which was causing a delay. "Getting a three-phase power connection is another hurdle that has affected project implementation," he said.

Meanwhile, an official from the Drinking Water and Sanitation Department told 101Reporters that the compensation amount has arrived, but can be released only after the Land Acquisition Department processed the same. Several other officials that 101Reporters spoke to admitted that compensation has not been paid in most places, affecting work in most places. Pipeline laying has also been affected due to this.

Like Sukhen, Sanjay Tudu's family in Gadarwara has lost seven kattha land for JJM. "We will not allow any work until we are compensated. That is why we have prevented laying of pipeline near the tank." While the cost of the project may vary depending on the length of the pipes laid, Eklavya Prasad, a drinking water expert and trustee of Megh Payan Abhiyan, told 101Reporters that achieving JJM targets were quite feasible for Jharkhand as every district has funds available under the District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT).

Notably, a recent study by iForest has found that 85 per cent of the Rs 5,704 crore allocated under the DMFT in Jharkhand has been spent on drinking water sources so far. However, Prasad cautioned that increased dependence on borewells can be dangerous to people's health due to the high presence of fluoride in water.

(Rahul Singh is a Jharkhand-based journalist and a member of 101Reporters, a pan-India network of grassroots reporters.)
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Union Minister of State for Personnel and Public Grievances, Jitendra Singh on Monday said that India will reaffirm unified action to ensure zero tolerance against corruption and deepen G20 commitments towards countering corruption globally at the first Anti-Corruption Working Group Meeting (ACWG) of G20, being held at Gurugram, Haryana, from March 1-3.

In a statement issued ahead of the first ACWG, Singh added that India's G20 presidency is marked by unprecedented economic, geopolitical and climate challenges.

He, however, said that amid the global gloomy economic outlook, India has emerged as a bright spot as described by the IMF and other global agencies and therefore, India will play its rightful role to bridge the North-South divide on contentious issues.

The Union Minister added that during the three-day event at Gurugram, more than 90 delegates from 20 member countries, 10 invitee countries and nine international organisations will engage in detailed deliberations on strengthening international anti-corruption mechanisms.

The delegates will experience India's culture through specially curated yoga sessions, visit to historic sites, cultural events and local cuisine.

Singh said that since its inception in 2010, G20 ACWG has been at the forefront of guiding the anti-corruption initiatives of G20 countries.

G20 ACWG meetings have one Chair (Presidency country) and one co-chair country.

The co-chair for the G20 ACWG 2023 is Italy.

The Minister pointed out that as the 'mother of democracy', India's G20 Presidency gives her a golden opportunity to become the voice of the Global South in sync with other 19 countries for fast-tracking global anti-corruption efforts by addressing issues like money-laundering, asset recovery and beneficial ownership.

Under India's chairpersonship, G20 nations will deliberate on areas of future action like bringing in processes, where fugitive economic offenders can be traced and extradited faster, and their properties situated abroad brought within the reach of the law of the land from which such offenders escape.

Emphasising on the subject of the Working Group, Singh emphasised that corruption is a scourge that impacts effective utilisation of resources, and overall governance and affects the poorest and marginalised most acutely.

India's presidency aims to strengthen international cooperation for action against corruption and economic crimes, and recovery of stolen assets.

He said that the G20 ACWG will explore proactive sharing of information, improving existing mutual legal assistance framework and simplifying mechanisms for sharing of information between domestic law enforcement authorities in criminal matters.
Los Angeles, Feb 27 : American rapper Lil Wayne hasn't eaten fast food in more than two decades. The rapper has opened up about his healthy eating habits, admitting he hasn't touched a takeaway in two decades because he's had a personal chef since the age of 19.

He also shared that he can't even remember what a McDonald's meal smells like, reports Female First UK.

In a chat with Apple Music 1's Zane Lowe, the musician explained: "When I was 19, I moved to Miami and my mom is a chef and she was very happy for the move because New Orleans is crazy. One thing she really wanted me to do was get a personal chef." He further said, quoted by Female First UK: "So from the age of 19 to now, I've always had a personal chef. I haven't eaten any fast food forever. I don't know what McDonald's smell like." Wayne also insisted he doesn't stick to a workout regime, joking: "Only gyms I know is Jim Jones. I can't lift a weight. I don't do no workout (sic)." As per Female First UK, the rapper also discussed his place in the music industry - insisting that he is constantly inspired by other artists and is happy embracing new directions.

He explained: "There is a point where you look around and you're like I'm not even sure if anyone's coming down this road with me. Any direction I go into, it's always inspired." "Therefore, I never feel alone because I always have the inspiration. Inspiration grows and I work with people that love to see growth. I'm fortunate to have these people around me. The last tour I got off was with Blink-182. At the end of the day I find myself at the country music awards and doing tours with Blink 182. There's not a lot of rappers in this position who can say they've done that. I stand alone on that mountain," he added.




Pandas have never changed, but US political elites' mentality when observing China changed

The recent news of giant pandas in the US has saddened many Chinese panda fans. Le Le, the 25-year-old male giant panda living in the Memphis Zoo in Tennessee, the US, for 20 years, suddenly died on February 1. Meanwhile, Ya Ya, a 23-year-old female giant panda that came to the US together with Le Le, has recently suffered from deteriorating health.

After an autopsy by a team of Chinese and US panda experts, preliminary results suggest that heart disease was the cause of the death of Le Le. China and the US are now proactively coordinating the return of Ya Ya to China as soon as possible.

The two pandas remind people of the 2008 animated blockbuster Kung Fu Panda. That was the year pandas became popular worldwide, and eight pandas came from Southwest China's Sichuan Province to Beijing to add cheer to the Summer Olympics.

Giant pandas are known as the "ambassadors" of China-US friendship and cooperation. In April 1972, only two months after former US president Richard Nixon visited China, two pandas were sent to the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington. For more than 50 years, giant pandas have earned the fondness of Americans, becoming an important link between the peoples of China and the US.

Kung Fu Panda represents Hollywood's imagination of China. In the movie, the clumsy, friendly, and amiable panda is portrayed as an invincible world hero. The image of giant pandas reached its peak in the US when Po, the main character in Kung Fu Panda, finally defeated the evil villain Tai Lung, saved the Valley of Peace, and became the true Dragon Warrior. The implication here is certainly more than just an upgrade of the giant panda's image.

In reality, this is against the backdrop that China hosted the Beijing Summer Olympics in 2008 and became the world's second-largest economy in 2010, and the China-US relationship had maintained steady growth.

What viewers see from Kung Fu Panda is the transformation of the giant panda from a cute and friendly rare animal to a powerful hero. When US artists cleverly combine Chinese kung fu with pandas, it may suggest that the image of pandas in the eyes of some US politicians starts to change. In the viewfinder of some US politicians, the giant pandas seem to become increasingly vague, while the "Red China" behind them becomes clearer and clearer.

In early 2022, there was a political controversy regarding pandas in the US Congress. Some members of Congress positioned pandas as a propaganda "window dressing" for China's diplomacy with the US, accusing China of using pandas to "soften its authoritarian image." They even linked pandas with so-called human rights and Xinjiang issues, as well as the Taiwan question, and proposed a bill as posturing.

Have pandas really changed? Absolutely not. What has changed, however, is the mentality of the US political elites when observing China. This is one of the reasons why so many Chinese are worried about the status of pandas in the US.

An interesting comparison would be that giant panda is still one of the most beloved animals in many countries around the world, including in the US. People won't lose the focus of their cameras just because the panda comes from China, and what they love most about the giant panda is its cute, friendly, and lovable image.

For example, the health status of Ya Ya has recently touched the hearts of many panda fans in the US, who have expressed their concerns online.

The giant panda is not only China's national treasure, but also a rare world-class animal. It is the responsibility of the Chinese people to protect the giant panda. Over the decades, the Chinese have not changed their intentions.

In 2016, the giant panda was downgraded from "endangered" to "vulnerable" on the global list of species at risk of extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and China made the same decision in 2021. The current population of giant pandas living in the wild has exceeded 1,800. This is a significant contribution by the world's most populous country to the planet and its ecological environment. It also reflects a major developing country's pursuit of quality development.

China has also been able to achieve such great results thanks to its cooperation with other countries, including the one with US experts over giant panda's reproductive techniques. It is believed more people around the world will be able to witness giant pandas in the future, and people will continue to become fans of this animal. With the drumbeat of China's peaceful development, giant pandas will remain active on the global stage as cordial messengers.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : A special CBI court on Monday reserved its order on the plea of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) seeking five days custody of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the now-scrapped liquor policy case.

Special judge M.K. Nagpal of the Rouse Avenue Courts will pronounce his order later on Monday.

The agency arrested Sisodia on Sunday after eight hours of questioning.

During the hearing, the CBI said: "Conspiracy was hatched in a very planned and secret manner." However, Sisodia's counsel, senior advocate Dayan Krishnan opposed CBI's remand application saying that there was no evidence against Sisodia.

The Special Public Prosecutor for CBI argued: "Investigation has revealed that Sisodia verbally directed the Secretary to put a new cabinet note to bring about the change and variance in the policy. He was heading the Group of Ministers constituted by the cabinet for the Excise Policy... The profit margin was enhanced from 5 per cent to 12 per cent. He could not explain why the changes were made."
Ranchi, Feb 27 : The Jharkhand police on Monday arrested five persons, including two minors accused of gang raping a minor girl when she was returning from a wedding in Dewaki village of Gumla district.

Three of the accused have been sent to jail while the two minors have been sent to a juvenile home on the complaint of the victim lodged at Ghaghra police station.

The incident took place late on Sunday night, when the girl was returning home from the wedding with a female and male friend.

The accused thrashed her two friends and chased them away by threatening to kill them, before gang raping her in the bushes and then fleeing from the spot.

The girl managed to reach home and informed her family of the incident.

The two minors have been sent to the child reform home by the police, while the other three accused have been identified as Naveen Oraon, Bindeshwar Oraon and Lakshmi Oraon.

All the accused confessed to their crime during interrogation.

Police officer Manish Chandra Lal gave information about the incident during a press conference on Monday.

He said that an FIR has been lodged against the accused under various sections including the POCSO Act.
Mumbai, Feb 27 : Hoping to ease the backlog in courts, the Maharashtra Government has accorded administrative approval for constructing 18 court buildings in the state, newly-appointed Governor Ramesh Bais said here on Monday.

These court buildings will be built at a cost of around Rs 772 crore, while the government will establish a new Family Court at Belapur in Navi Mumbai, said the Governor, in his first address to the Maharashtra Legislature.

Besides, to ease the housing shortages, the government will build 23 residential quarters for the judiciary costing around Rs 110 crore. All these projects shall be implemented in the current year under the central scheme of Development Infrastructure for the Judiciary.

Addressing the joint sitting of the Maharashtra Legislature on the opening day of the 2023-2024 Budget Session here, the Governor highlighted various achievements of the government of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, saying it will adhere to the high ideals of idols like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Dr B. R. Ambedkar and other visionaries and luminaries.

Bais noted that the state government has adopted the famed Marathi song "Jai Jai Maharashtra Majha" as the State Anthem, fulfilling a long-standing dream, earlier in February.

In order to revitalise the post-Covid economy and spur jobs, the government will recruit 75,000 employees as part of the 75 years of India's Independence.

Similarly, the government plans to organise 600 job fairs this year, has signed MoUs with 45 companies to create 1.25 lakh new jobs, and approved 24 projects with investments of Rs 87,774 crore to create another 61,000 jobs, said Bais.

The state government also inked MoUs with 19 companies to invest Rs 1.37 lakh crore at the Davos conclave last month, started two ITIs at Gondia and Gadchiroli to skill youth and generate employment besides training over 1,000 ITI teachers.

Bais said that Maharashtra is India's leading industrialised state, contributing 14.2 per cent of the national GDP, an export leader accounting for 17.3 per cent of the country's total exports, and is making efforts to maintain its leading position and contribute to achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2026-2027.

The Governor touched upon various aspects of the state's growth and progress covering different sectors, departments and sections of the population in his address.

Present in the House were Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, Leader of Opposition in Assembly Ajit Pawar, Leader of Opposition in Council Ambadas Danve, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, Council Deputy Chairperson Dr. Neelam Gorhe, leaders and legislators of various parties.
Bhopal, Feb 27 : The Budget session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly began on Monday with Governor Mangubhai Patel addressing the session, during which he praised the BJP-led state government's relentless efforts to make the state self-reliant.

The Governor said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set off on a mission to make India "prosperous, self-reliant and developed" and Madhya Pradesh was moving ahead towards fulfilling this resolve step-by-step with the Union government.

"My government is committed to make Madhya Pradesh self-reliant. The Global Investors Summit (GIS)-2023 (held in Indore last month) was a milestone. Investment proposals to the tune of Rs 15.42 lakh crore came in, which speaks volumes of the investors' unwavering faith in the state government's industrial policy and work culture," Patel added.

While addressing the opening session of the Assembly, the Governor highlighted various steps of the Centre and state government, including PESA Act, renaming of Bhopal's railway station after Rani Kamlapati, among other measures.

As the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh are scheduled at the end of the year, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan-led BJP government will be tabling a paperless Budget on March 1. It would the the first time that the Madhya Pradesh government would be tabling its annual budget digitally.

However, Leader of Opposition and senior Congress leader, Govind Singh told reporters that he would oppose the paperless budget presentation. He said that many MLAs are not familiar with digital systems, therefore, he would request the House to provide papers of the budget.

Meanwhile, on the first day of the month-long Budget session, former Minister and Congress MLA from Indore, Jitu Patwari along with his party colleague Kunal Choudhary reached the Assembly complex with a plough to show support to the state's distressed farmers.

After the Governor's address, Speaker Girish Gautam adjourned the House till Tuesday.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor on Monday hit out at Air India after he was served unsatisfactory meals on a flight from Nagpur to Mumbai.

He shared photos of his meal, describing the food items as "cold" chicken tikka, sandwich with very little filling and a dessert terming it "sugar syrup".

"Wake Up @airindiain. Nagpur-Mumbai 0740 flight. Cold Chicken Tikka with watermelon, cucumber, tomato & sev Sandwich with minuscule filling of chopped cabbage with mayo Sugar syrup Sponge painted with sweetened cream & yellow glaze," Kapoor said on Twitter.

"Really! Is this what Indians should eat for breakfast?" he said in another tweet.

Last week, Trinamool Congress MP Mimi Chakraborty had complained on a social media platform after she found a strand of hair in her in-flight meal. The actor-turned-politician said that she found a strand of hair in the meal she was served on an Emirates flight. She had also shared related pictures on Twitter.
Kolkata, Feb 27 : A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Monday directed the CBI to confiscate all properties in the country and abroad of Trinamool Congress legislator and former president of the West Bengal Board of Primary Education (WBBPE) Manik Bhattacharya, who is serving judicial custody in the multi-crore teachers' recruitment scam case.

Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay of the Calcutta High Court on Monday afternoon took a strong note of the event of Bhattacharya missing the deadline of paying the penalty of Rs 7,00,000 in two cases related to the teachers' recruitment scam.

Irked by the missing deadline, Justice Gangopadhyay directed the CBI to confiscate all the properties of Bhattacharya in India or abroad immediately.

The first penalty was imposed in a case filed at the Calcutta High Court by one Mayarani Pal, who appeared in the written examination for teachers' eligibility (TET) in 2014.

She complained to the court that since the results for 2014 was not declared in time, she was unable to appear for the further tests in 2016 and 2020, after which she surpassed her qualifying age. Since Bhattacharya was then the president of WBBPE, Justice Gangopadhyay held him responsible and imposed a penalty of Rs 2,00,000 on him.

A few days after, another candidate Sahila Parveen approached the Calcutta High Court, where she claimed that she, as a candidate for the 2017 TET examination, asked for a copy of her optical mark recognition (MR) sheet of her written examination under the RTI and also deposited the required fees.

However, WBBPE, with Bhattacharya as its president, did not provide her with a copy of OMR sheet. In that case, Justice Gangopadhyay imposed a penalty of Rs 5,00,000.

Justice Gangopadhyay observed that despite missing the deadline for payment of the penalty amounts, neither Bhattacharya had taken any initiative to pay the same or had informed the court about his inability on this count. Thereafter he directed the CBI to confiscate all his properties.
London, Feb 27 : An earlier first birth, a higher number of live births, and starting periods at a younger age are all linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular problems in women, according to new research.

Researchers from Imperial College London, University of Cambridge, and Yale School of Public Health found that an earlier first birth, a higher number of live births, and earlier menarche were associated with a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke in women. However, it did not find an association between the age of menopause and cardiovascular disease.

The researchers also found that much of the increased risk for earlier menarche resulted from this factor being associated with women having a higher body mass index (BMI).

This means that lowering a person's BMI could help to reduce this risk.

The increased risk for earlier first birth could be partly limited by acting on traditional cardiometabolic risk factors, such as BMI, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

The findings, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, are based on previous studies involving more than 100,000 women and highlights the need for doctors to monitor these risk factors closely in women and intervene where needed.

Cardiovascular disease has often been thought of as a man's disease, as men are more likely to develop it at an earlier age than women. However, this group of diseases is a serious problem for women, the experts said.

"If we're going to save more women's lives, asking about periods and pregnancy must be routine when assessing every woman's risk of heart disease and stroke," said Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, consultant cardiologist at the British Heart Foundation.

"Women are often mischaracterised as being at low risk for cardiovascular disease, leading to delays in diagnosis. Even when they are diagnosed, they tend to receive less targeted treatment than men," said lead author Dr Maddalena Ardissino, from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial.

However, Ardissino cautioned that women should not worry if they've had their period at a young age, or if they had an early first birth.

"Our research shows that the additional risk of cardiovascular disease can be minimised if traditional risk factors like BMI and blood pressure are well-controlled," Ardissino said.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday urged Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav for timely forest clearances for expediting ongoing development projects in the state.

Sukhu urged him to ensure early forest approvals in a time-bound manner for construction of heliports and green corridors as mandated by the state government for making Himachal 'Green Energy State' by 2025 and other major ongoing projects.

The tough geological conditions of the state necessitate constructing heliports not only to facilitate tourists but also to cater to the emergency needs during natural calamities or otherwise. A decision should be taken without delay regarding the necessary forest clearances pending for the construction of the heliports, he urged the Union Minister.

The state government is promoting e-vehicles in Himachal Pradesh and developing the necessary infrastructure for it by constructing an adequate number of e-charging stations. Besides, green corridors would also be constructed on both sides of all national and state highways. In order to speed up the process, various approvals regarding forest land should be accorded in time to achieve the target, said the Chief Minister.

Pending forest clearances create unnecessary delays in the construction of development projects, especially educational institutions, roads and bridges and ropeways, etc. He urged that these approvals should be given as soon as possible.

The Chief Minister advocated that the state forest officers should work in unison with the central-level officers and should take up the cases pending with the ministry so that approval can be accorded on time.

Detailed discussions were also held regarding the state's water reservoirs, wildlife sanctuaries and eco-tourism guidelines, an official statement by the Chief Minister's Office said.

The Union minister assured all possible help to the state, it added.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi has to take a call on Monday and clarify that his defence of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia a day before was in his capacity as a counsel and not as a Congress leader.

Singhvi tweeted, "It is but obvious that my tweet at 336 pm on 26/2/23 on #Manish #Sisodia was in context of my appearance for him as senior counsel in many cases and not on behalf of #congress party, tho space constraints made me inadvertently omit the mentioning of this fact." But on Sunday on the day of Sisodia's arrest, Singhvi who is a senior lawyer tweeted, "God be with u #Manish ji. Distressing 2c such repeated, flagrant, egregious & shameless misuse of arrest power. #Sisodia Cnot be flight risk, suborning evidence or witnesses or non cooperation after almost a year of investigation & interrogation. How & why arrest after so long?" The Congress has taken a tough line against the AAP and has squarely blamed it for corruption because of two reasons -- the AAP founders were the people behind the Anna Hazare movement which led to the fall of the Congress.

The other reason is that when Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi were summoned by the Enforcement Directorate for questioning the AAP remained silent. However, on the arrest of AAP leader Sisodia many opposition leaders have condemned it including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

"The arrest of @msisodia by CBI is another example of how @BJP4India misuses the Union Government's agencies to intimidate the opposition. It's a blatant abuse of power and an attack on democracy. Such repression undermines the very foundation of our nation and should be resisted," he tweeted.
Surat, Feb 27 : A woman allegedly attempted suicide after poisoning her two daughters in Surat, an official said on Monday.

The woman identified as Asmita, on Sunday afternoon, first poisoned her two daughters -- Ritanshu and Divya, and later herself consumed poison.

The woman and her two daughters have been admitted to a Surat hospital.

The Pandesara police have booked the woman in an attempt to murder case.

The woman's husband Dinesh Patel, an embroidery worker and a resident of Satyanarayan Nagar area falling under the Pandesara police station jurisdiction, said that his uncle learned about the incident and rushed all the three to the hospital.

He said: "Both of my daughters are in critical condition." Patel added that on Saturday, he and his wife quarrelled over a domestic issue. This had disturbed Asmita, and that might have led her to take this step.
Matthew West, a contemporary Christian artist, performed for around 900 people at Christ Community Church in Beatrice on Friday evening.

Attendees were from the surrounding area, Lincoln, Omaha and Kansas. West sang new releases from his My Story Your Glory tour and previous chart-toppers. Throughout the evening he shared stories of people he had known.

Hope Burris of the Beatrice Salvation Army accepted a donation on stage of $1,000 for local needs from the ministry. It will help with a lot of needs, she said. Christ Community Pastor Dan Martin said the concert sold out.
Mumbai, Feb 27 : For the second consecutive day, the Aam Aadmi Party protested against the arrest of Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the Central Bureau of Investigation in an alleged corruption case, here on Monday.

On Monday, hundreds of AAP workers staged noisy demonstrations near Churchgate station, after a similar protest outside Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Sunday.

Incidentally, Sisodia's arrest on Sunday came two days after the AAP's Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had come for a high-profile meeting with the President of Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra ex-CM Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai (February 24), to discuss a common platform to fight the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Addressing the gathering near Churchgate on Monday, AAP Mumbai President Preeti Sharma-Menon said that this is a state of 'undeclared emergency' in the country and the party would not be cowed down by Sisodia's arrest and said he was being targeted by the CBI without a base.

"We were born on the streets of India, protesting against corruption and injustice... If one Manish Sisodia is arrested, crores more like him will emerge," thundered Sharma-Menon.

She alleged that on one hand there is Gautam Adani who scammed Indians of lakhs of crores of rupees and there is no action against him by the CBI, and there were many scandals by the Congress during the UPA regime, but the CBI did not act against any of its leaders.

"On the other hand, Sisodia, who is the architect of Delhi government's education revolution is being unnecessarily hounded in a fake case... This is an attack on the excellent world-class education being imparted to millions of students by the Delhi administration," she said.

Other leaders said that the BJP fears only APP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scared of only Arvind Kejriwal, and they are being targeted as AAP is the country's fastest growing political party with the capacity to take on the BJP.

The Mumbai Police had deployed tight security around Churchgate and detained a large number of the protestors.
Paris, Feb 27 : The European Space Agency's Euclid mission, aimed at probing the "dark side" of the universe -- namely dark matter and dark energy -- has successfully completed the final test before launch in July 2023.

The space telescope will create the largest, most accurate 3D map of the Universe ever produced, observing shapes and movements of billions of galaxies across 10 billion years of cosmic time, over more than a third of the sky.

From this data, Euclid will reveal how the Universe has expanded and how structures have formed over cosmic history, revealing more about the role of gravity and the nature of dark energy and dark matter.

The two-tonne spacecraft, which is 4.7 metres tall and 3.5 metres wide, is a fully European mission -- built and operated by ESA, with contributions from NASA.

It is currently situated at the Thales Alenia Space test facilities in Cannes, France and has successfully undergone electromagnetic compatibility testing.

The test is aimed at ruling out electromagnetic waves that can cause interference with other devices, which in space can have disastrous consequences.

The large test chamber at TAS, called the Compact Antenna Test Range, simulates the electromagnetic environment of deep space, being lined with cones that absorb radio signals and prevent reflections.

To avoid TV or radio interference, the walls of the chamber form a steel Faraday cage, impenetrable to electromagnetic signals from the outside world.

In this radiation-free environment, the team studied the radio signals and electrical noise coming from the various systems on the spacecraft and checked whether they caused any electromagnetic interference with each other.

After completing a few final tests, it will head to Cape Canaveral in the US for a launch in July on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The $1.5 billion mission is planned to last until 2029.

--IANS rvt/vd

A
Bhubaneswar, Feb 27 : Gopal Krishna Das, who killed Odisha minister Naba Kishore Das, had received one promotion and several rewards including citations 18 times during his service in the police department.

This was revealed by MoS (Home) Tusharkanti Behera in the Odisha Assembly on Monday.

Naba Das was killed by the now sacked police ASI Gopal Das on January 29. He had fired a bullet at the chest of the minister from a very close range. Though the police arrested the accused from the spot, it is yet to ascertain the motive behind the murder.

While replying to a question of BJP MLA Kusum Tete, Behera said Gopal Krishan Das had joined the police as a constable in Berhampur on July 8, 1992.

He was promoted to assistant sub-inspector post in 2009. After his promotion, Das served in different police outposts and police stations in Jharsuguda district for 13 years.

The MoS said Das was promoted once and received letters of appreciation 18 times and monetary rewards nine times.

In a written reply to a query of Congress MLA Narasingha Mishra, Behera said the Crime Branch investigation of the case is continuing.

In order to maintain transparency, fairness and absolute impartiality in the investigation, on the request made by the government of Odisha, Justice (retired) J.P. Das has been nominated by the Orissa High Court to monitor the investigation, Behera said.

On Mishra's question on the appointment of the retired Orissa HC judge, the minister said, "Recently, Supreme Court had appointed Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain, a former Judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court to monitor the investigation in Lakhimpur Kheri incident in Uttar Pradesh on similar lines which may be treated as a precedence." During investigation, it was reported that the accused was suffering from some mental illness and hence the documents pertaining to the same were collected and verified. Later a psychiatric evaluation of the accused was carried out by a team of doctors, he added.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Aam Aadmi Party has alleged that 80 per cent of the party leadership had been arrested by the police along with Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

Terming the situation a sign of Emergency, AAP leaders said that the Centre is doing the same thing that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi did during the 1975 Emergency.

Accusing the Central government of wrongful detention, the AAP leaders alleged that while detention is for one or two hours, their leaders had been detained for almost 24 hours and it was illegal to do so.

Party MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj said that Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and Delhi minister Gopal Rai had been arrested.

Apart from this, the police have arrested several party leaders including Adil Ahmad Khan, Lok Sabha convenor and elected councillors since Sunday.

Bhardwaj said that the leaders should have been presented in court in due time.

He alleged that Sisodia was arrested on the basis of the same stale story that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had been telling since May 2022. He demanded to know the reason behind the sudden arrest despite the approval of the liquor policy by then Lt. Governor Anil Baijal.

Bhardwaj questioned why the former Lt. Governor had not been interrogated even after 10 months.

There is no evidence against Sisodia and the Central government is torturing the AAP, said Bhardwaj.
Kohima, Feb 27 : Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Monday expressed his hope that the Naga political dialogue would soon end with a positive solution.

After casting his vote at Tuophema polling station in Kohima district, he said that it is very significant and encouraging that the NSCN-IM and the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) on January 14 issued a joint declaration that they would strive forward to expedite the Naga peace talks with the Central government, protecting the Naga culture, tradition, identity and history.

"Naga people want solution to the decades-old Naga issue, lasting peace and development," he said, adding that the joint declaration has given them more hope that the issue may get resolved at the earliest.

"Even though the Naga political issue has not yet been resolved, the crime rate in Nagaland drastically reduced and the state is in top position in the country for reduction of crime." Eight other Naga armed groups a few years back came together under the banner of NNPG.

About the demand of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organisation (ENPO) for a separate state of 'Frontier Nagaland', the Chief Minister said that the Centre had invited them for discussion and made them understand that their demands would be considered after the Assembly elections.

Following the assurance from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the ENPO had withdrawn its poll boycott call.

The Union government has been holding separate talks with the NSCN-IM and the Working Committee of NNPGs since 1997 and 2017, respectively. The Framework Agreement with the NSCN-IM was signed in August 2015 and the Agreed Position with NNPGs in November 2017. The NSCN-IM had entered into a ceasefire agreement with the Centre in 1997 and has held over 80 rounds of talks -- within and outside the country -- but nothing substantial came out as the government could not allow them to have a separate constitution and flag.

Rio, also a top leader of ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), is seeking re-elections from the Northern Angami-II Assembly seat for a record seventh consecutive term. Accompanied by his wife and three daughters to cast their vote, he said: "The NDPP and the BJP would comfortably come back to power with more than the absolute number of seats." The NDPP is contesting the election in 40 seats while its ally the BJP has fielded candidates on 20. In all, 12 political parties comprising national and state parties are in the fray.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Supreme Court on Monday slammed the Defence Ministry over its January 20 communication in connection with the payment of arrears of One Rank-One Pension (OROP) in instalments to the eligible pensioners of the armed forces.

A bench headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and comprising justices P.S. Narasimha and J.B. Pardiwala told Additional Solicitor General N. Venkataraman: "Here, you are not fighting a war. Here, you are fighting a battle under the rule of law, you better set your house in order. This is not the way for the Ministry of Defence to go about it." Venkataraman, representing the Ministry of Defence, submitted: "Eight lakh pensioners, one tranche of Rs 2,500 crore has already been credited and we have given undertaking that for family... it will be before March 31... balance, we are paying.....we are not saying that we are not paying." The top court took exception to the letter issued by the secretary in the ministry, and directed him to file a personal affidavit in the matter.

The Chief Justice said: "You tell the secretary that we will take action against him for issuing that communication on January 20, he better withdraw it before the next date... the sanctity of the judicial process has to be maintained. Either the secretary withdraws that communication or we will issue a notice of contempt... no business to take law in your hands".

Venkataraman urged the bench to give some time to the ministry to carry out the exercise as per the court's order.

Citing the apex court judgment in the matter, senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, representing the petitioner, submitted that court directed implementation within three months, that is they have to implement by June 15, 2022 and this amount was supposed to be paid by November 2019, and they already got extension and all arrears had to be cleared by 2019.

After hearing arguments, the top court scheduled the matter for further hearing after the Holi vacation.

Last year in March, the apex court had delivered a judgment on the plea filed by the Indian Ex-servicemen Movement (IESM) through advocate Balaji Srinivasan against the Centre's formula.

The apex court on January 9, had granted time till March 15 to the Centre for payment of total arrears of OROP to all eligible pensioners of the armed forces.

Later, the government moved the apex court seeking extension of time till March 15 for payment of arrears of OROP scheme to all eligible pensioners of the armed forces.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : Some Google services like Gmail and Workspace suffered a brief outage on Monday and several users across the world, including in India, were unable to access them.

Around 60 per cent people on downdetector.com, a website that tracks outages, reported problems with Google website while 35 per cent had issues with login.

Some users experienced a temporary error (500), when their accounts were temporarily unavailable.

Users went to Twitter to write about the Google services outage.

"So Google is down for everyone? Can't get to any personal or workspace gmail and can't use any of the AI devices," posted one user.

The Google services like Gmail had slowly started to come back to life for some users.

The company was yet to comment on the reason behind the outage.

Last week, Google suffered a service outage affecting Gmail users worldwide that causes issues when syncing emails with Microsoft servers via the Internet Message Access Protocol (IMAP).

Gmail users said they're not receiving emails and that they're also having issues syncing their Hotmail accounts.

The company acknowledged the reports and said it was investigating the issue.

"IMAP syncs with Microsoft servers experiencing failures that are causing Gmail sync issues. We currently believe the issue only affects users syncing their email from Outlook servers," Google had said.

"The investigation so far from our engineering has not uncovered any issues with Gmail application authentication and we are continuing to investigate further for the root cause," the company said in an update.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : An Indian diplomat on Monday complained about the poor facilities at Air India's business class lounge at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York.

Dr K.J. Srinivasa, India's High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Antigua & Barbuda, and St.Kitts & Nevis, alleged that the Air India business class lounge at JFK Airport had "empty food containers, disposable plates and cutlery and unresponsive staff".

"Pathetic state of affairs at @airindiain business class lounge @JFKairport. empty food containers,bad food,disposable plates/cutlery,unresponsive staff. @TataCompanies can splurge billions on buying new aircraft why not pay some attention to revamping existing lounge @RNTata2000," he said in a tweet.

The diplomat also shared photos which showed food trays with cut vegetables, a few dishes, cup noodles and other things.

Air India responded to Dr Srinivasa's complaint saying they are looking into it. "Dr. Srinivasa, we appreciate you taking out time and sharing your feedback. Our aim is to deliver a comfortable and memorable experience whenever you fly with us.

"We are looking into this and are sure you will give us another opportunity to serve the best in-class the next time you travel with us," said the airline.

Earlier, during the day, renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor on Monday hit out at Air India after he was served unsatisfactory meals on a flight from Nagpur to Mumbai.

"Wake Up @airindiain. Nagpur-Mumbai 0740 flight. Cold Chicken Tikka with watermelon, cucumber, tomato & sev Sandwich with minuscule filling of chopped cabbage with mayo Sugar syrup Sponge painted with sweetened cream & yellow glaze," Kapoor said on Twitter.

"Really! Is this what Indians should eat for breakfast?" he said in another tweet.
Chandigarh, Feb 27 : Former Punjab minister Bikram Singh Majithia on Monday demanded a CBI inquiry into the Delhi excise scam be extended to Punjab, saying Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was also the architect of the state excise policy which had caused losses of hundreds of crores to the exchequer.

Addressing the media here, Majithia said: "The actors and directors of the Punjab excise policy are the same as in case of Delhi. As in the case of Delhi, the CBI should probe the role of senior officers and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) politicians who had colluded to give huge benefits to select liquor manufacturers like Deep Malhotra at the cost of the state exchequer." He said a separate Enforcement Directorate inquiry should also be conducted to go into assertions of money laundering.

Asserting large-scale corruption in the Punjab excise policy, Majithia said like in the case of Delhi, the entire liquor trade had been handed over to two companies and their profit margin had been doubled to facilitate a quid pro quo.

"Hundreds of crores have been passed back to the AAP government in Punjab and the AAP high command in Delhi. It is this ill-gotten money from the liquor as well as the sand mining mafia which is being used by AAP to fulfill Arvind Kejriwal's national electoral dreams." He said this was the reason why the Delhi Chief Minister had publicly stated that the same policy which had been disallowed in Delhi was doing "wonders" in Punjab.

Asking AAP not to adopt double standards on corruption, Majithia said: "AAP considers corruption done by its leaders as good corruption but if done by anyone else, it becomes bad corruption." He said Kejriwal had also become adept at issuing character certificates be it in the case of his minister Satyendar Jain who was accused of accepting bribes from conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar as Jails Minister or in the latest case of his Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

"Why doesn't Mr. Kejriwal let the investigating agencies and the courts do their jobs? Why is he coming in the way of the judicial process by sponsoring protests to defend corruption? It is obvious he feels the trail may lead to him," he added.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : While Alzheimer's is long known to afflict the aged, Chinese researchers recently claimed a 19-year-old boy -- the youngest-ever patient -- was diagnosed with the disease. Faulty genes can likely make the disease more common in youngsters, doctors argued on Monday.

Alzheimer's -- the most common cause of dementia -- causes the brain to shrink and brain cells to eventually die. The disease is known to severely impact memory, thinking, and behaviour.

While the signs of Alzhiemer's typically start appearing in the mid-60s, early onset has been recorded starting from the 30s. To date, the youngest person known to have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease was a 21-year-old who carried a gene mutation.

But the study, published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, reported a 19-year-old boy in China with "probable" Alzheimer's disease.

While the exact cause behind his disease remains unknown, researchers from Capital Medical University's Xuanwu Hospital in Beijing said he started showing memory loss -- a typical characteristic of Alzheimer's -- and hippocampal atrophy -- a shrinkage that is an early marker of the disease -- since the age of 17.

"Alzheimer's disease can become more common with the younger population due to genes," Dr Atul Prasad, Principal Director & HOD Neurology, BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital, told IANS.

"It entirely depends on the quality of genes. It can lead to manifestation of the disease in early ages as well," he added.

Although the root cause of Alzheimer's remains unknown, faulty genes are one of most common reasons. However, the adolescent patient's case differed because no known genetic mutations were identified.

He showed typical characteristic features of memory loss - he had trouble studying, frequently lost belongings, could not remember eating and had to withdraw from high school, the South China Morning Post reported.

Speaking to IANS, Dr. Manish Mahajan, Sr. Consultant - Neurology from Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, said that memory impairment in young patients should not be ignored by neurologists.

However, he disagrees that Alzhiemer's will be more prevalent in young people. "It will be a wrong message if we say that Alzheimer's is now seen in younger individuals. It still remains a disease of elderly," Mahajan said, noting that there must be some genetic predisposition in the case of the Chinese boy.

While one cannot change their genes, good sleep, physical and mental exercise, which includes playing chess or bridge games can be key in avoiding the disease, Prasad said.

He also advised to "eat nuts for daily nutrition, especially walnuts as it carries a good amount of antioxidants which slow down the brain ageing".
Editor's note: This is the second of two stories examining Yellowstone County's rising homicide rate. On Sunday, we profiled a family still grieving a murdered son.

Dozens of families have mourned violent deaths in Billings since 2020.

Last year ended with 16 homicides in Yellowstone County, according to preliminary data from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Although fewer than the record-setting 19 reported in 2020, homicides trended upward compared to 2021. For Billings, the past three years have been the deadliest in recent history.

"I think that is going to be a new average, said Lt. Brian Krivitz with the Billings Police Department. I think that once communities start seeing those kind of numbers, its really hard to come back down.

BPD has investigated 42 of the 45 homicides tracked by DPHHS from 2020 through 2022, the remaining three occurring outside of the department's jurisdiction. The two deadliest months during that time, according to BPD data, occurred last year in January and December with three deaths each. The oldest victim was a 67-year-old woman, and the youngest an 11-year-old boy. The average age of the victims in BPD's homicide investigations is 30.

All but two homicides in the span of those three years were carried out with a weapon. One person was beaten to death, and another strangled. While weapons used in Billings homicides have included knives and glass bottles, Krivitz said, most involved firearms. The vast majority of people killed in Billings have died from handguns, but rifles and shotguns have also been used.

Krivitz said at least three homicides were carried out with stolen firearms. BPD investigators could not find the guns used in at least two fatal shootings.

According to countywide data, six of the homicide victims were 19 and younger and eight were 40 or older. The majority, 12, were between the ages of 30 and 34. Of the 45 homicide victims tracked by DPHHS between 2020 and 2022, 12 were women.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, people of color make up only about 15% of the countys population but they represented more than half of all homicide victims from 2020 to 2022. Five of the victims were Black or Hispanic, and 18 were Native Americans.

Homicide has remained a leading cause of death for Indigenous people in the United States for years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC published a report that documented American Indian and Alaska Natives homicides from 2003 to 2018. Of the 2,226 homicides included in the report, about half were killed in metropolitan areas.

Law enforcement officers in Yellowstone County, most of them members of BPD, shot and killed four people in the past three years: one man in 2020 and three in 2022. In October of 2020, police killed 29-year-old Cole Stump during a confrontation in the parking lot of an apartment building in the 2500 block of Avenue C. Police said Stump had been carrying a pistol and refused to show his hands while he was being arrested. A coroner's inquest found the shooting justified in January 2022.

In February 2022, Billings Police Officer Brett Hilde shot and killed 40-year-old Raymond Dupree Jr. who allegedly pointed a pellet gun built to resemble a handgun at the officer and several others in the area of Broadwater Avenue and Seventh Street West. In November 2022, a jury ruled the shooting was justified following a coroner's inquest.

About two months later, Curtis Dean Yellowtail died of multiple gunshot wounds fired by BPD officers and one Montana Highway Patrol trooper in a parking lot on Industrial Avenue. Yellowtail led cruisers with several agencies on a chase that looped around Billings, BPD Chief Rich St. John later said, and ended when he crashed a Nissan hatchback near Fireside Lanes.

When he eventually got out of the vehicle, he had what looked like a handgun pointed to his head. When police fired non-lethal rounds at Yellowtail, St. John said, the the force spun Yellowtail around and he pointed the gun at law enforcement, who opened fire. Photos published of the gun by BPD showed it to be a toy cap gun.

Billings police officers killed 19-year-old Michael Morado about a week later in an exchange of gunfire near North Park. A traffic stop became a car chase that ended with a shootout in an alleyway off Burnstead Drive. A BPD sergeant was wounded by a bullet, and 13 BPD officers were placed on administrative leave after the shooting.

All but one of the 42 homicides investigated by BPD from 2020-2023 have been solved, Krivitz said, meaning a suspect has been arrested or identified. Manuel Manny LaMere Martinez was found dead from gunfire near the Evangelical United Methodist Church in the area of Fourth Street West and Broadwater Avenue in late November 2020. The 30-year-old grew up between Billings and Tacoma, Washington, the Gazette previously reported. He was trying to return to Tacoma the night he was shot, according to his friends and family. More than two years later, BPD are still searching for a suspect.

A BPD crime analyst provided a map of homicides investigated through the city during those three years, plotting them by date. Although certain areas overlap in terms of frequency of homicides, Krivitz said, one address keeps repeating itself as far as homicides and shootings: The Colonial apartments at 223 S. 27th St.

A common denominator in homicides, Krivitz said, is drugs, particularly fentanyl in the past year. He also said there are a string of factors attached to violent crime such as overcrowding at the county jail, addressing mental health and recidivism among those on probation and parole that are entwined with the fact that Billings sits along a drug corridor between Chicago and Seattle.

I think once these higher numbers (take root), its going to take a multi-faceted approach to address all of these factors in order to bring that number back down, he said.

And honestly, I dont know what the answer is.

The initial call of a homicide in Billings can have investigators at a scene for 18 to 20 hours straight, Krivitz said. And that investigation can stretch out for months or even years. Adding to BPD workload and the spike that homicides has brought, Krivitz said is that the Investigations Division is short staffed.

Detectives assigned specifically to investigate murder and attempted murder have decreased, wrote BPD Det. Jeff Chartier in a statement to the Gazette. Those detectives are referred to as general or major crimes detectives.

Chartier is president of the Billings Police Officers Affiliate for the Montana Federation of Public Employees, and has been with BPD for nearly three decades. Some detectives, Chartier wrote, have retired in recent years and others have been promoted to sergeant and moved from the Investigations Division to the Operations Division. Detectives transferred from major crimes to specialties like drug interdiction, auto theft and child exploitation have not been replaced.

There are additional detectives and officers with the Investigations Division serving in specialty functions, Chartier wrote, like street crimes, drug task force assignments, forensic computer lab examination and fugitive task force roles.

However, they are not detectives who routinely handle this communitys continuing increase of shootings and stabbings, he wrote. As a result of manpower losses and the unreasonable burden, young detectives often seek promotion or transfer. Also, recruitment within the agency has suffered and fewer police officers are interested in competing to achieve the position and title of detective.

The Yellowstone County Attorneys Office has charged 22 people with deliberate homicide from 2020-2022. In that same period, county prosecutors filed charges of attempted deliberate homicide six times, and charged two people with deliberate homicide by accountability.

I dont want to say its the new normal, but youve got three years of data, Yellowstone County Attorney Scott Twito said. You have three years of higher numbers than weve had historically, so its possible. I just dont want to agree with that because Im a Billings kid and it just really bothers me.

Twito has discussed the reason for the rise in homicides with community leaders, he said, but its difficult to find. As a county attorney, he said, hes never seen so many guns on the street.

This is speculation, my opinion, but in light of what Ive seen in the trend of whether its homicides or crimes of violence, when law enforcement comes in and talks to folks, he said, I would say undoubtedly there are firearms in every public place you go. Every restaurant. Every bar."
Mumbai, Feb 27 : Attempting to corner the Shiv Sena (UBT) group of MLAs -- sitting in the Opposition benches -- the ruling Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has issued a Whip to all the party legislators to remain present during the month-long Budget Session of Maharashtra Legislature which started here on Monday.

Shiv Sena's Chief Whip Bharat Gogawale issued the Whip for his party's 40 MLAs and the remaining 16 belonging to Sena (UBT), in the Legislative Assembly.

"We have issued a Whip to all the MLAs to be present full time in the House during the session, failing which they can face action," said Gogawale.

The Sena (UBT) MLAs were unfazed and their senior leaders like Bhaskar Jadhav and Sunil Prabhu said they had not received any Whip from Gogawale.

"We are not worried or frightened of the Whip... when we were not scared at the manner in which Thackeray's chair (as CM) was snatched away after they (Shinde faction) joined forces with the BJP, why should we feel bothered about this Whip. They are free to issue whatever they want, we shall not follow the Whip," the duo declared.

The Thackeray group's 16 MLAs sat in the Opposition benches along with the other major parties like Congress, Nationalist Congress Party, etc on the first day of the Budget Session 2023-2024.

However, in the Legislative Council, all the 12 MLCs are with Sena (UBT), including Thackeray, who was not present on the first day on Monday.

The development came 10 days after the Election Commission allotted the 'original' Shiv Sena name and its 'Bow-and-Arrow' symbol to the Shinde group - which the Thackeray faction has challenged in the Supreme Court.

The apex court is also hearing the disqualification proceedings against 16 MLAs, including Shinde, along with the issue of the party split.

Last week, the Speaker Rahul Narwekar told the media that as far as he is concerned, there are 56 MLAs of the Shiv Sena and he is guided by the 10th Schedule of the Constitution.

The 10th Schedule concerns the Anti-Defection Law, which was inserted by the 52nd Amendment (1985) and the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly rules.

In a strong reaction outside, Sena (UBT)'s MP and Chief Spokesperson warned that the Shiv Sena Whip would be a contempt of the court, and other leaders also criticised the move.

Nevertheless, Industry Minister Uday Samant defended Gogawale, saying that the Shiv Sena issued a Whip to ensure the presence of all MLAs and not for taking action against anyone, adding that they would not do anything violating the SC orders.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : An Air India passenger, travelling in business class from Mumbai to Chennai, on Monday shared a video of an insect he found in his in-flight meal.

"@airindiain insect in the meal served in businessclass. Doesn't look like hygiene was taken. My flight was AI671 -Mumbai to chennai Seat 2C," passenger Mahavir Jain tweeted.

Responding to the video, Air India said: "Dear Mr. Jain, we're sorry to note your experience while flying with us. This is not something good to hear. We strictly follow measures to ensure hygiene at every step of the process." "However, could you please DM your date of travel, and flight details along with the seat number? We'll highlight this to our catering team for immediate review and action," the airline said.

Earlier, on the same day, two such complaints surfaced regarding Air India.

An Indian diplomat alleged the poor facilities at the airline's business class lounge at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York. India's High Commissioner to Guyana, Antigua & Barbuda, St.Kitts & Nevis, Dr K.J. Srinivasa, alleged that the Air India business class lounge at JFK Airport had "empty" food containers, disposable plates and cutlery and "unresponsive" staff.

On the same day, renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor on Monday hit out at Air India after he was served unsatisfactory meals on a flight from Nagpur to Mumbai.

"Wake Up @airindiain. Nagpur-Mumbai 0740 flight. Cold Chicken Tikka with watermelon, cucumber, tomato & sev Sandwich with minuscule filling of chopped cabbage with mayo Sugar syrup Sponge painted with sweetened cream & yellow glaze," Kapoor said on Twitter.

"Really! Is this what Indians should eat for breakfast?" he said in another tweet.
Belagavi : , Feb 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his fifth visit to poll-bound Karnataka in recent times on Monday, launched a scathing attack on Congress, stating that the grand old party has always humiliated leaders from the southern state.

"Congress hates Karnataka. It humiliates all those leaders who do not take diktat from the 'family'," Modi said.

The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally after dedicating to the nation and laying the foundation for projects worth over Rs 2,240 crore, before releasing the 13th installment of PM Kisan Samman Nidhi of over Rs 16,000 crore at the Malini City in Belagavi.

"People have seen how the family humiliated senior leaders like S. Nijalingappa and Veerendra Patil (both former CMs). Now, another leader from the state is being insulted by the Congress.

"I respect (Congress President) Mallikarjun Kharge who has been in public life for more than 50 years. He has ensured many social developmental works. But, during the Congress in Chhattisgarh, all leaders were made to stand under the sun, including Kharge. Though an umbrella was held for 'someone', Kharge did not have any such luxury. I am telling this to make you understand how Karge is treated by the Congress. The whole country knows who holds the remote control," Modi said, without taking the names of Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi.

The Prime Minister added that many political parties are indulging in family politics.

Urging the people of Karnataka to remain careful, Modi said, "Now, they (Congress) are bothered that I am alive. They know that till the time I am there, they can't make their way through. They are saying 'Marja Modi' (Modi you die). They are also saying 'Modi Teri Kabar Khudegi' (Modi your grave will be dug). However, I know that thr people are only saying 'Modi Tera Kamal Khilega' (Modi your lotus will bloom)," Modi said.

"The people of Karnataka are showering unprecedented love and blessings on me. I bow down and salute them. I will only say that Modi will return their love with interest," he said.

"Today, Rs 16,000 crore has been transferred to the accounts of farmers across India with just a click of the button. If it was Congress Raj, what would have happened? Rs 12,000-13,000 crore would have gone. But, this is the Modi government. Every paisa is yours," Modi said.

The Prime Minister also claimed that small farmers were neglected all these years, but the BJP government has shifted its focus on improving their live.

"Under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Rs 2.50 lakh crore has been deposited to the farmers' accounts. Of this, Rs 50,000 crore will go to the mothers and sisters. We are trying to modernise the farming process. We are trying to prepare the farming sector for the future. Direct benefit transfers wouldn't have been possible without Jan Dhan bank accounts, linking people's mobile numbers and Aadhaar cards," he said.

Modi also said that the states which will reduce the use of chemical fertilisers in farming will get due support from the Central government.

Speaking on the occasion, Union minister Pralhad Joshi said the 10 km road show organised for the Prime Minister in Belagavi created a history as not an inch of space was empty as people flocked to catch a glimpse of Modi on either side of the road.
Bhopal, Feb 27 : The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday granted bail to former minister Raja Pateria over his alleged remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December last year. The senior Congress leader, who has been in jail for nearly the last two and a half months, finally got relief as his previous attempts to secure bail were rejected by both the district and High Court.

Pateria's alleged remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi -- "be ready to kill PM Modi, killing in the sense of defeat in the elections," had created a political storm in Madhya Pradesh and his comments were condemned by leaders cutting across party lines. The Madhya Pradesh Congress Committee had issued an official statement and condemned Pateria's remarks.

Following this, state Home Minister Narottam Mishra directed the police to register an FIR against the Congress leader. Subsequently, Pateria was arrested from his residence in Hatta village of Damoh district on December 13 last year. According to the police, Pateria was booked under sections 451, 504, 505 (1)(b), 505 (1)(C), 506, 153-B (1)(C) of the IPC.

Since then he has been in jail, and his multiple bail applications were rejected by the High Court. While rejecting his previous bail plea, Justice Sanjay Dwivedi of the High Court had made a long observation, which read -- "It is noticed that it has become a fashion for some public leaders to seek popularity of the followers without caring for the consequence of deliverance. This practice is not only belittling the image of public leaders in the society but also becoming a cause of increase in criminality in politics." While addressing a gathering of tribals in his home town on December 11, Pateria had said, "Modi will end elections as he will continue to divide people on the basis of caste and religion. He is a threat to the Indian Constitution. If you want to save the Constitution, be ready to kill him."
Kolkata, Feb 27 : The All India Forward Bloc, the party founded by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and current constituent of the Left Front, has decided to launch a campaign christened "Har Ghar Netaji" in the coming days.

The decision was taken at the four-day 19th Party Congress of Forward Bloc that concluded at Hyderabad on Sunday, a newly-elected member in the Central Committee said.

"Netaji's ideology was secularism and unity of all religions. On the other hand for BJP, the current ruling party in India, the only motto is to divide the people of the religion. So in the party Congress, it has been decided to launch this 'Har Ghar Netaji' campaign to counter the attempt to create communal divide," the central committee member said admitting that the campaign line of the party is clearly meant at countering BJP's favourite campaign line of "Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi".

He said that the new campaign line will be a door-to-door one to reach out to the people how relevant Netaji's line of secularism is in the present context. The theme of the 19th Party Congress was "Subhasism is the Future".

In the four-day party congress, G. Devarajan from Kerala was elected as the General Secretary of the party, Naren Chatterjee was elected as the Chairman and P.V. Kathiravan from Tamil Nadu as the Vice Chairman. Dr Asim Saha from West Bengal was elected as the Finance Secretary of the party.

The newly elected central committee will have nine secretaries which include three from West Bengal and one each from Karnataka, Odisha, Telangana, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam.

The five members in the new central committee will have one each from Odisha, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh and two from Jharkhand.
Mumbai, Feb 27 : Ex-'Bigg Boss 16' contestant Jasmin Bhasin, who is currently seen in the web series 'Jab We Matched', expressed her opinions on relationships, love, and breakups.

She said: "You always have a partner to celebrate happiness, you always have a partner to cry on his shoulder during the dull moments basically. You have a companion forever in your good and bad which is a beautiful thing. There is nothing called worst as long as you are in a meaningful relationship in both good and bad days. So there is no worst part of falling in love." Jasmin, who is quite famous for her role in 'Tashan-e-Ishq' and 'Dil Se Dil Tak', shared her perspective about life partners turning best friends and if this is possible.

She said: "Your husband will only be the person whom you have chosen as a partner, your children's father, your companion with whom you spend the rest of your life. He has to be your best friend and that's how you will make a successful and strong partnership.

"I have never been in a situation where someone has ghosted me and I have tried to get them back by making them jealous," she added.

'Jab We Matched' is four episodic series, helmed by director Srinivas Sunderrajan, written by Neil Chitnis, Amrit Paul, Bhavya Raj and Ritu Mago.

It also features Abhishek Nigam, Priyank Sharma, Mayur More, Prit Kamani, Shivangi Joshi, and Revathi Pillai.

'Jab We Matched' is streaming on Amazon miniTV.

Latest updates on Bigg Boss Season 16
Mumbai, Feb 27 : Soon after the National Investigation Agency (NIA)'s caution on a "dangerous man", the Mumbai Police switched into a high alert mode, official sources said on Monday.

The Mumbai Police have initiated the drills of strategic road blocks, random checks of vehicles, tabs on suspicious persons or movement, and keeping eyes and ears open to detect any unusual activities, besides prodding their informers on the same.

The NIA alert came in an email to Mumbai Police, informing that the person, identified as Sarfaraz Memon of Madhya Pradesh's Indore is reportedly trained in Pakistan, China and Hong Kong, and could pose a serious threat to the Mumbai's law and order situation.

The central agency, which is tracking him, said that Memon had reached Mumbai and advised the police here to be more alert as he is an "enemy of the state".

The NIA also passed on the "dangerous" suspect Memon's critical details like driving licence, Aadhaar card, passport and other documents with Mumbai Police, which in turn is seeking more dope on him from Indore police.

It may be recalled that in the past couple of months, the Mumbai Police have received several threats of possible terror strikes, but all proved to be hoaxes.
Moscow, Feb 27 : Russia's spy chief Sergey Naryshkin on Monday termed his meeting with his US counterpart in Turkey last November as "positive" and "substantial".

The Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) head's comments came after CIA Director William Burns in a CBS News interview described the high-level meeting between the two as "pretty dispiriting" and accused his Russian counterpart of displaying "a very defiant attitude" and "a sense of cockiness and hubris" during the negotiations.

"I still positively assess the nature and results of the meeting with my colleague William Burns," Naryshkin told media persons here, adding that the negotiations in Ankara were substantial and proceeded "in a very comfortable atmosphere", RT reported.

Expressing his "great respect" for his American counterpart, he termed Burns "a very experienced, skilful diplomat... who, perhaps, has not yet obtained a lot of experience" in his CIA role.

The SVR chief noted that the negotiations went on for 2.5 hours. "This alone shows that the meeting could hardly last as long as it did if one of the sides behaved cockily, rudely, arrogantly," he emphasised.

Naryshkin also speculated as to why Burns may have got such an impression. "Maybe, he understood that during this conversation, during these talks, I was leaning not only on my opinion... but on the opinion of the many millions of Russian people." The meeting, in Ankara in mid-November, is believed to have been the first direct contact between top US and Russian officials since Moscow launched its military campaign in Ukraine in February 2022.

At the time, the US said Burns was "conveying a message on the consequences of the use of nuclear weapons by Russia, and the risks of escalation to strategic stability". Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said the meeting was held at the request of US President Joe Biden.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Delhi High Court on Monday allowed BJP councillor Sharad Kapoor to withdraw his plea alleging that Mayor Shelly Oberoi did not stick to the rules of not using mobile phones and pens during voting to elect the MCD Standing Committee members on February 22.

Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav was hearing the case after Kapoor moved the HC two days after the polls seeking to declare the polls as null and void.

Fresh polls for the MCD's highest decision-making body were, however, conducted on the mayor's order on February 24, the day the plea was heard by the high court.

The polling held on February 24 also remained inconclusive and the mayor announced re-election on February 27 but the decision was stayed by the high court in another matter.

Kapoor, in his petition, had said that the Mayor "defied every constitutional and statutory norm" and "betrayed the mandate of the Constitution by allowing mobile phones and pens in the election proceedings." In a special hearing on February 25, the High Court put a stay on the notice issued by the newly-elected Mayor directing re-election of the six members of the MCD Standing Committee.

The court had said that no purpose will be served by conducting fresh elections on February 27.

Kapoor had said that he, along with others, had staged a protest against the Mayor's act.

Several confidential ballot papers used for the election of the Standing Committee members were doing the rounds on social media.

The petition read: "In a bizarre turn of events, the newly-appointed Mayor, in a brazen defiance of constitutionally-established norms and propriety, allowed the councillors to bring their mobile phones and pens during the voting process with the malafide intent of manipulating and vitiating the election process." "In spite of the objection of the elected members of the BJP, which led to adjournments on several occasions and stalled the polling process for hours, the election process for six members of the Standing Committee was allowed to be continued by the mayor, while permitting the members to carry mobile phones and pens inside the polling booth, wherein several members belonging to the Aam Aadmi Party took pictures/snapshots of their votes (ballot paper), before casting their respective votes, in a gross violation of the complete electoral process, thwarting the principle of secrecy of ballot," the plea read.
Patna, Feb 27 : Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav on Monday said that his RJD will take action against MLA and former minister Sudhakar Singh for repeatedly targeting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

"The party has already taken his clarification for attacking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Still, he is repeatedly attacking him. It indicates that he was guided by BJP and RSS and playing on their pitch. The matter is in the cognisance of party's national President Lalu Prasad Yadav and he has asked national General Secretary Abdul Bari Siddiqui to look after it," he said.

"At present, the health of Abdul Bari Siddiqui is not right. Once he recovers from the illness, he will form a committee to probe this matter and submit the report before Lalu Prasad Yadav to take action against him," Yadav added.

Sudhakar Singh on Monday said that the Nitish Kumar government has failed in every sector in the state.

Earlier JD-U MLC Sanjay Singh strongly objected to the repeated statement of Sudhakar Singh against Nitish Kumar after the meeting of Mahagathbandhan's legislators in Bihar Vidhan Sabha.

"The water has gone above the head. When will the RJD take action against him?" he asked.
The governors of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho have been moving Heaven and Earth to expedite removal of Endangered Species Act protections for grizzly bears and return management to the states.

This devolution of authority would predictably result in efforts to reduce sizes of grizzly bear populations in the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide Ecosystems, including through use of a trophy hunt. At every turn, the governors have pointed to increasing bear numbers and human-bear conflicts as justification for removing protections and implementing punitive management.

In total, we currently have perhaps a tad more than 2,000 grizzly bears, about 4 percent of the West-wide population during the mid-1800s and roughly twice what we had in the 1970s and 1980s, but distributed among four isolated or semi-isolated populations.

Importantly, even the most optimistic population estimates do not provide reasonable assurance that grizzlies will survive in the Rockies. The emerging scientific consensus is that 2,000-8,000 bears  all in a single inter-breeding population  are needed to guarantee long-term viability. By this standard our comparatively small and isolated populations are at risk. Management designed to reduce population sizes and perpetuate isolation would only compound this risk, as does the deteriorating environmental conditions were already seeing.

Perhaps even more problematic, the politicians who so ardently promote removing ESA protections neglect history and almost totally disregard the interests and values of most people in this country.

Grizzlies in the contiguous U.S. nearly succumbed to the murderous attitudes of European settlers in a startlingly brief 50-year period between 1870 and 1920. Small populations hung on in ecosystems centered on Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks as well as in northern Idaho and far northwestern Montana.

Hard-fought implementation of the Endangered Species Act since the mid-1970s has rescued grizzly bear populations in the Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide Ecosystems from their perilous state, although encounters with hunters, poachers, and conflicts with humans over livestock and garbage remain a source of worrisome mortality. Loss of key foods is also a threat.

Tragically, populations in the Selkirk Mountains and Cabinet-Yaak region barely survive due to loss of secure habitat and the toll taken by poachers. A Recovery Area centered on north-central Idaho has only a handful of bears.

I grew up in the Black Hills of South Dakota, not too far from where the last grizzlies in the region were killed. Coyotes and white-tailed deer were our largest surviving native mammals. Later during my career as a wildlife researcher I was able to draw inspiration from the rescue of our surviving critically-imperiled grizzly bear populations.

My field studies also allowed me to experience the magic of grizzly bears through numerous close encounters  a magic that millions of visitors to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Parks have experienced from afar. We are rediscovering what indigenous people have known for a long time: that grizzlies are a source of powerful medicine.

The management regime being developed by state managers and politicians seems to dismiss this inspiring connection between humans and bears out of hand  in addition to being anything but precautionary.

Now is not the time to remove federal Endangered Species Act protections for grizzlies. Their populations are too small, fragmented, and subject to deteriorating environmental conditions. More important, politicians in the northern Rockies promise imprudent and vengeful management.

If anything, we should be redoubling our commitment to restoring and protecting grizzly bears. The bears, as well as the multitudes of people throughout our country who cherish them, deserve no less.
Beijing, Feb 27 : China on Monday slammed the United States for sanctioning Chinese companies for alleged involvement with Russia, saying the illegal, unilateral sanctions, if not revoked, would be met with countermeasures from China.

Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, told a press briefing that the US actions lack both the basis in international law and UN Security Council mandate, Xinhua news agency reported.

"They are typical unilateral sanctions and illegal 'long-arm jurisdiction' and detrimental to Chinese interests. We deplore and reject this move and have made serious demarches to the US side," Mao said.

She also said that on the Ukraine issue, China's position has been objective and fair.

"We have actively promoted peace talks and sought a political solution. The US, however, has been fanning the flame and fueling the fight with more weaponry," she said.

To date, the US has provided Ukraine with over $32 billion worth of military aid, including large quantities of advanced armament. Just days ago, it announced yet another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth $2 billion, according to the spokesperson.

Mao said the United States has been pouring weapons into one side of the conflict, thus prolonging the fight and making peace elusive, while spreading disinformation that China would supply weapons to Russia and sanctioning Chinese companies under that pretext.

"This is out-and-out hegemonism and double standard, and absolute hypocrisy," Mao said.

"On the one-year mark of the full escalation of the Ukraine crisis, China issued its position paper on the political settlement of the crisis, whereas the US imposed sanctions on Chinese and other foreign companies. Who is promoting peace and deescalation, and who is fueling the tension and making the world more unstable? The answer is fairly obvious," the spokesperson said.

She called on the United States to reflect on its behavior, bear in mind what is good for the world, and do something that will actually help deescalate the situation and get peace talks going.

"The US also needs to stop spreading disinformation and withdraw the sanctions on Chinese companies," she said.

"The Chinese side will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. We will take resolute countermeasures in response to the US sanctions," Mao added.
Patna, Feb 27 : In wake of the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers on Monday protested against the BJP outside its office here.

The AAP supporters gathered outside the BJP office at Veerchand Patel Path here and shouted slogans "Bhajpa Bhagao Desh Bachao" while demanding the immediate release of Sisodia. They have claimed that the democracy of the country is under serious threat due to the BJP.

They were involved in a scuffle with the police present there in large numbers. Senior police officers reached the spot and managed to convince them to move away from the BJP office, where security has been beefed up.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Sisodia on Sunday night after 8 hours of questioning in New Delhi over allegations that the Delhi excise policy had left to a loss of revenue for the Delhi government.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said it has attached properties worth Rs 4.15 crore of a firm -- NGHI Developers India Ltd, and its other group companies, in connection with a money laundering case.

The investigation in this regard was initiated by the ED, Jalandhar under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, in compliance with the directions of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana.

The firm as well as the group of companies have been accused of coming up with a Ponzi Scheme which affected thousands of investors across Punjab, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh.

The enquiries conducted by the ED revealed that multiple FIRs were found registered at different police stations in Punjab, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh under various sections of the Indian Penal Code against Pipal Singh, the firm director and others.

Pipal Singh was arrested by the police but was granted bail by the high court, after he promised that he would return the money to the investors. However, he never returned the money.

"He has been declared as proclaimed offender by a court in Punjab. Investigation conducted by the ED revealed that multiple companies were formed by the main accused Singh and his associates," an official said.

The proceeds of crime was diverted and channelled into various immovable properties purchased in Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh in the names of NGHI Developers India Limited and other group companies.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Monday condemned the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Delhi liquor policy scam case.

KCR, as the leader is popularly known, and is also the President of Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), said in a statement that the arrest is nothing more than diverting people's attention from the nexus between industrialist Gautam Adani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

BRS Working President K. T. Rama Rao had Sunday termed Sisodia's arrest as undemocratic and alleged that BJP's treatment of opposition is vicious.

The BRS leader wanted to know how many ED, IT and CBI raids were conducted on BJP leaders or their kith and kin in the last 8 years.

"The country is watching how PM's cronies are protected despite serious allegations and how Opposition leaders are hounded," Rama Rao said.

"Modi's Operandi is clear Target opposition parties by all means at his disposal; Either split the parties Or poach their MLAs & dislodge elected Governments If nothing works, use their only allies; CBI, ED & IT to harass and launch a smear campaign Back it with Paid Troll Army," KTR tweeted.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : With voting for the assembly polls in Meghalaya and Nagaland ending on Monday amid tight security, all eyes are now on the results.

In Meghalaya, polling was held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies, while in Nagaland voting was held in 59 out of 60 Assembly constituencies.

The Matrize exit poll for Meghalaya predicted 21-26 seats for the NPP, 6-11 seats to the BJP, 8-13 to the TMC, 3-6 for the Congress and 10-19 for others.

In Meghalaya, it continued to be a four-cornered contest. In the last Assembly polls, although the Congress had emerged as the single largest party winning 21 seats, the Conrad Sangma-led National People's Party, which had won 20 seats, had managed to form the government following an alliance with the BJP.

However, this time, with no pre-poll alliance in place, the Congress, BJP, NPP and TMC are looking to win a majority on their own.

In Nagaland, in 2018 the NDPP-BJP alliance had formed the government. The Naga People's Front (NPF), which had emerged as the single largest party in the last Assembly polls, faces a tough time as many of its leaders have since quit to join the NDPP.

The Matrize exit poll predicts the BJP+NDPP will win 35-43 seats, the Congress will get 1-3 seats, the NPF might get 2-5, the NPP 1 and 6-11 for the others in Nagaland.

Tripura voted on February 16, recording nearly 88 per cent polling.

The India Today exit poll has predicted that the BJP will win 36-45 seats in the Tripura Assembly. The BJP-led alliance is likely to retain power, shows the India Today-Axis My India poll.
Shillong, Feb 27 : Over 76 per cent voting was recorded in the Meghalaya Assembly election on Monday, and polling was, by and large, peaceful, officials said.

The Election Commission said that the vote percentage recorded was approximately 76.57 percent till 5 p.m.

No major untoward incident happened in the hill state during the election day.

At a polling station in the Nongthymmai constituency in the East Khasi Hills district of the state, there were allegations of proxy voting.

According to sources, at a polling station, Mizo Modern High School in Nongrim Hills, a few voters complained that they could not cast their vote. Following that, the EC has ordered a probe into the incident, however, no re-polling has been ordered until now.

"We are enquiring into the matter," East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner S.C. Sadhu said.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : Telangana Agriculture Minister Singireddy Niranjan Reddy on Monday demanded that TDP chief and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu apologise for his remarks that people of Telangana started eating rice only after the TDP introduced subsidised rice scheme in 1980s.

Niranjan Reddy said Naidu should know the history before saying something.

Naidu, president of Telugu Desam Party (TDP), had said on Sunday that the people of Telangana shifted to eating rice from porridges made from pulses and millets only after his TDP came to power.

He claimed that people of Telangana started eating rice only after then Chief Minister N.T. Rama Rao rolled out the Rs 2/kg rice scheme.

Naidu was speaking at the launching of the Intintiki TDP (TDP for every household) programme in Hyderabad.

His remarks evoked strong reaction from leaders of Telangana's ruling party Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), who demanded that he apologise to people of Telangana.

Niranjan Reddy said as far back as the 11th century farmers in Telangana used to cultivate paddy, wheat, sorghum, ginger, turmeric, onion and sugarcane under the chain of ponds built by Kakatiya rulers.

He pointed out that Hyderabad has been famous for its Dum Biryani since the 15th century.

The minister said that Naidu's remark that Telangana people started to eat rice only after TDP introduced Rs 2/kg rice is a proof of his lack of understanding and height of arrogance.

Biryani, Sherwani and Qubani were mentioned many times by Chief Minister KCR during the Telangana movement, he said.

Niranjan Reddy also said that the Telangana movement started because of malice, insult, hatred, discrimination and injustice towards the people of Telangana.

The merger of Telangana with Andhra in 1956 was the seed of destruction of Telangana as ponds were destroyed and existing projects were neglected, he claimed.
Bhopal, Feb 27 : The first day of the budget session 2023-2024 of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly began with the address of Governor Mangu Bhai C. Patel on Monday, following which Speaker Girish Gautam adjourned the session till 11 a.m. on Tuesday.

However, leaders from both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress took on each other outside the House and launched a verbal attack at each other. It began after former Chief Minister and state Congress president Kamal Nath termed Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's newly proposed scheme 'Ladli Behna Yojna' (LBY) as a 'gimmick' ahead of the elections.

During a short interaction with the press, Nath said that the Congress will give an allowance to homemakers when it forms the government. He said the promise to give this allowance will be included in the Congress 'vachan patra' (poll manifesto).

Nath said, "CM Chouhan has made announcements amounting to crores of rupees during the past few months but with no concrete plans for implementation. All this is to mislead people. When will the (Ladli Behna) forms come, when will they be filled up, when money will be given?" Home Minister Narottam Mishra hit back at Kamal Nath over his remarks, saying the Congress has always made fake promises to the people. "Kamal Nath himself engages in theatrics in the name of announcements therefore he sees every scheme as theatrics. We have always done what we have said and the people of the state are witness to this. Kamal Nath did nothing but theatrics during his tenure," Mishra said.

The Shivraj Singh Chouhan government has recently announced the 'Ladli Behna Yojna', wherein married women in the age group of 23 to 60 years and annual family income of less than Rs 2.5 lakhs will be given cash assistance of Rs 1,000 per month. The BJP government is set to allocate a huge amount of money in its annual budget for this.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said it has attached immovable properties worth Rs 3.18 crore under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

An investigation in this regard was initiated by the ED based on an FIR filed at a police station in Dehradun under various sections of the Indian Penal Code.

An ED official said that during the investigation, it was learnt that one of the accused in the case, Bharti Devi, had manipulated the records of the Multipurpose Kisan Sewa Co-operative Societies, Vikasnagar to allegedly misappropriate funds.

"She used to issue Fixed Deposit Receipts to the people by taking money and entering into the records of Multipurpose Kisan Sewa Co-operative Societies Limited but the amount received was not actually deposited in the official account of the Society," an official said.

Bharti Devi had allegedly embezzled the money for her own monetary benefit by not maintaining an official record of the transactions.

The ill-gotten money was used to acquire the immovable properties in the name of her son Ravi Kumar and grand-daughter. Later, a provisional attachment order to attach assets worth Rs 3.18 crore was issued against a plot of land and 12 flats in Dehradun.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday said that they have arrested middleman Jeetendra Prasad and Delhi government school Hindi teacher Dinesh Singh Kushwaha for allegedly receiving Rs 2.60 crore from an accused involved in Powerbank app (Chinese loan app) case for getting his work done.

This is the same Chinese app by which Chinese lenders cheated Indian nationals to the tune of Rs 250 crore.

The two were produced before a special PMLA court which sent them to ED custody till March 3.

"Cash of Rs 47.5 lakh, forged summons, notices, duplicate official stamps were recovered during searches conducted at the house of Jeetendra Prasad," the official said.
South Africa: SA business people pleased with trade leads generated in UAE

South African businesspeople who participated in the Gulfood Exhibition that took place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates last week, have said they are pleased with the trade leads that they generated.

They recorded over 4 000 promising trade leads that they hope will soon translate into substantially tangible deals.

The 16 agro-processing companies, including the South African Fruit and Vegetables Canners Export Council (SAFVEC), showcased their products in a National Pavilion that was set up by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic).

The main objective of the support provided by the dtic through the Export Marketing and Investment Assistance scheme (EMIA) was to create a platform for these companies to develop export markets for their products.

The Founder of Makhamisa Foods and a Black Industrialists Programme beneficiary, Terence Leluma, was part of the SA delegation.

Leluma, who manufactures unique chilli-based condiments, said his companys products received huge interest from countries such as Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, India and African countries such as Malawi and Kenya.

"The UAE market received our products well and believe our products deserve to be on the global food industry platform. We met a number of prospective clients and secured strong leads. We will be back for follow-up meetings in a month or two, Leluma said.

We are excited to have forged these relations. Dubai is the centre of trade and I am honoured to have been offered the opportunity to fly the South African flag high in this part of the world and take our products to the global market."

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Naturezone, that produces fitness waters and herbal teas from natural ingredients with zero calories, Peter Foulis, described his participation in the show as remarkable.

"We have received quality enquiries and leads. We are expecting great things to follow as we follow up on these leads. We appointed three agents at the show for UAE, Russia and India. Our neighbouring countries Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Zambia have also shown interest in our drinks," Foulis said.

The Project Manager of RFG Foods, the manufacturers of canned fruits and vegetables and juices, Thasha Thaver, said her stand received hundreds of visitors with a lot of interest from the Middle East and Africa.

Some existing customers came to look for new products that we have introduced. It was a great week. We have seen the value of attending the show. Being present at the trade shows has improved our turnover and offered a vehicle to create new relations, she said.

More South African companies should attend and see what the rest of the world is doing, benchmark and continue to improve products so as to offer the customers innovative products, Thasia said.

The 2023 Gulfood exhibition is regarded as the largest food and beverage trade exhibition in the Middle East.

According to the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Fikile Majola, South Africas participation in the Dubai Expo 2020 was part of SAs efforts to revive the economy and create opportunities for inclusive growth.

It paved a way to further unlock opportunities by leveraging more trade events in the region, such as Gulfood, which offers a follow-through opportunity for South African firms, he said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-02-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
CPC puts the people at center: South African senior official

People's Daily Online) 10:07, February 27, 2023

Editor's note:

With the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) concluding in October 22, 2022, China has formally embarked on a new journey of building a modern socialist country with a new blueprint. As the congress attracted worldwide attention, Peoples Daily Online interviewed a series of foreign experts, scholars, as well as those foreign friends residing in China, to learn their thoughts about the congress as well as Chinas future development.

Cedric Frolic is a member of the African National Congress (ANC) in South Africa. Having served as the house chairperson for ANC committee's oversight and ICT for 12 years since 2010, Frolic has been impressed by the changes in Chinese society in all phases over the past decade.

Not just the rapid development is taking place, but also I am impressed by the Chinese people, said Frolic. You can see the humility on peoples faces. They are modest about the achievements and progress theyve made, and still they never ceased their steps on improving peoples lives, especially for those who live in poverties.

Frolic pointed out that of the various reasons why China has achieved such a huge leap especially in the past decade, the key factor is none other than the leadership of the Communist Party of China. All the works that the CPC had done has been centered around the well-being of people and to make people happy, said Frolic. You can recall that when the world economy has turned into a recession, China still managed to achieve growth, and they also managed to eradicate absolute poverty. None of the works could have been done if they didnt put the people first.

While highly paying attention to the 20th CPC National Congress as well as the report made by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Frolic also shared his opinions toward the congress on some of the crucial aspects such as Chinas open-up policy.

For me the most crucial aspect of the report is that China will continue opening up to the rest of the world, said Frolic. Chinas open-up policy should deviate from the policies from the Western countries because China hasnt colonized any countries in the world before. Instead, Chinas open-up policies is based on the friendship as well as the mutual interest between China and the rest of the world, especially African countries.

Frolic pointed out that Chinas achievement in economic and social development can provide inspirations to the development of African countries. It will also help the ongoing China-Africa relationship to take off even more than before.

Since China got involved into the development of African continent, we can see improvements in all phases such as infrastructure, said Frolic. The way that China and African countries develop their relationship is about people to people, and the same goes on the economic cooperation, which is also a deviation from Western countries when it comes to their relations with Africa that is built on exploitation and colonizing.

The diplomatic relationship between China and South Africa will step to its 25th year anniversary in 2023. Being one of the international parties that has various interconnections with China, Frolic praised the relationship between the ANC and the CPC as well as the future of inter-party exchanges between the two parties.

We are proud to build inter-party connections with the CPC since both parties are the leading parties in the governments respectively, said Frolic. It has proven to be successful because it advances the mutual interest for both of our people, and it also establishes trust, friendship, and mutual understanding of the unique cultures of the two countries.

Frolic also believes that through economic cooperation within BRICS as well as the other programs that are in place between China and African countries, African countries including South Africa will see development and benefit.

As China has stepped into the new journey toward the second centenary goal of building a modern socialist country in all respects and to advance the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernization, Frolic also shared his thoughts and wishes toward this upcoming new journey.

The core part of Chinese modernization is to not leave people behind, said Frolic. This is something that the CPC has been doing all the time since people is the center for them to do their jobs. They know that the Party cannot be aloof and distanced from the people, so all their works theyve been done are around the well-being of the people. The key aspect of putting people at the center will ultimately prove the success of the implementation of the modernization programs of the People's Republic of China.

(Web editor: Peng Yukai, Wu Chengliang)
A judge at the request of a prosecutor has dismissed charges against a semitrailer driver involved in a fatal Morton County crash about a year ago.

South Central District Judge Pamela Nesvigs ruling, signed Monday, comes about two weeks after she denied a pretrial diversion agreement that would have placed Hashi Shire, 37, of Richfield, Minnesota, on probation for a year. Charges of negligent homicide and aggravated reckless driving were to be dismissed if he stayed out of trouble during that time.

Antonina Walden, whose husband, Scott Walden, died a week after the March 2022 crash, had urged Nesvig in a letter not to approve the pretrial agreement.

Walden told the Tribune she was not informed that Morton County States Attorney Allen Koppy would move for dismissal of the charges but had been bracing for the possibility.

We're all very disappointed that this is the route he has chosen to take, Walden said. Its heartbreaking and an insult to Scott and our entire family.

Koppy in a motion to dismiss said there were concerns about proving that Shires actions constituted a gross deviation for acceptable standards of conduct, which he said is needed to prove guilt on a charge of negligent homicide. An accident reconstruction report from the North Dakota Highway Patrol also did not show Shire acted recklessly in disregard of the rights or safety of others, to prove the aggravated reckless driving charge, the motion stated.

The proposed pretrial agreement stated in part that Shire conceded There is a substantial likelihood that a conviction could be obtained."

But Koppy noted the accident reconstruction report stated I-94 was extremely icy and there was very little that either driver could do at or near the scene of the crash. The report showed the Walden vehicle was likely sliding on wet ice and slowed by a few miles per hour during 2  seconds of braking before the crash. It was traveling between 49 and 56 mph when the crash occurred.

Shire in the 2 miles before the crash slowed from 63 mph to 52 mph and lost control when he moved from the left lane to the right lane, the motion states.

Shire and his co-driver had earlier stopped at a rest area 18 miles west of the crash site, and surveillance video shows it was not raining there, the motion states. There were no Department of Transportation travel alerts at that time, and none was issued until five hours after the crash, Koppy said. The National Weather Service issued an urgent alert for freezing rain 12 minutes after the crash.

The Patrol in an affidavit filed after the crash said Shire drove without due caution and at a speed to endanger a person. He was aware of the dangerous driving conditions but was distracted by a conversation with a passenger in the truck, authorities said. He was charged last May.

Tom Dickson, Shires attorney, said in a statement to the Tribune that he was grateful for the states decision to dismiss the charges.

This was an accident caused by rapidly deteriorating road conditions and bad weather. Sometimes accidents happen. An unfortunate tragedy is not always a crime. So too, with this case, Dickson said.

Walden has filed a civil lawsuit in federal court seeking unspecified money damages from Shire, his employer and semi owner AJ Logistics, and FedEx Ground Package System, owner of the trailers being pulled by the semi. The defendants in their response to the lawsuit deny all claims.
Kolkata, Feb 27 : The West Bengal Forest Department has decided to set limits within the different national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the state beyond which the tourists or the safari jeeps carrying them will not be allowed to revel.

The decision was taken in the wake of a charge by two rhinos towards a safari jeep at Jaldapara National Park in Alipurduar district on Saturday following which five tourists, the driver and the helper of the jeep were severely injured as the vehicle lost its balance while moving in reverse.

West Bengal Forest Minister Jyotipriyo Mullick told media persons on Monday that a special committee of senior Forest Department officials will be constituted which will decide the limit to be set for the tourists to revel.

"The committee will also evaluate the reason behind the erratic behaviour of the wild animals. It is to be seen whether they get irritated just because of the teasing by the tourists or there is any other reason behind their erratic behaviour," he said.

Mullick said: "The committee should also decide on the further measures to be taken by the forest authorities to prevent incidences of tourists teasing or irritating the animals.

"This is really a menace. And that is why we are considering setting a limit beyond which the tourists cannot revel," he said.

He also said that the Forest Department is also considering introducing tourist insurance for those visiting the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the state.

"However, the thinking is at a primary stage and the details on this count will have to be worked out," he said.

The state forest department sources said that the exact reason behind the rhinos suddenly charging at the tourist safari jeep is yet to be ascertained.

"According to eyewitnesses, the two animals were engaged in a fight with each other when the safari jeep reached the nearby road piercing through the jungles. There is a possibility that the jeep then drew attention of the fighting animals and they charged. If that is true also the drivers and the tourists instead of stopping there and capturing the photos and videos of the fighting animals should have moved away from that place," a Forest Department official said.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Centre to decide whether it proposes to give sanction for the attachment of movable and immovable assets of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for repaying its unpaid arbitral award to Delhi Airport Metro Express Private Ltd (DAMEPL), owned by Reliance Infrastructure.

A single-judge bench of Justice Yashwant Varma granted time to Centre to place on record its decision.

"...Before the court proceeds to rule on the issue of whether the circumstances warrant the corporate veil of the DMRC be lifted, it would appear expedient to call upon the Union government to take a decision on whether it proposes to accord sanction for the attachment of the movable and immovable assets of the corporation for the purpose of the satisfaction of the amount payable under the award," it said.

The court listed the matter for the next hearing on March 2.

The HC on February 17 issued a notice to the Centre and the Delhi government in the case.

Justice Varma had initiated proceedings against the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Delhi government in DAMEPL's petition seeking enforcement of the arbitration award dated May 11, 2017.

"Undisputedly, the two essential stakeholders in this case are Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Government of National Capital Territory Of Delhi (GNCTD). The ends of justice would thus warrant that the said stakeholders be placed formally on notice and invited to make submission for the means to make payment of arbitral award to the execution petitioner." An amount of Rs 1,678.42 crore of the arbitral award has already been paid and Rs 6,330.96 crore is yet to be paid by DMRC.

Attorney General R. Venkataramani had on January 31 told the high court that if the Centre agrees to an interest-free subordinate debt on behalf of the DMRC to pay Reliance Infra, the Delhi government will follow suit.

Earlier in January this year, DMRC had informed the court that it has requested the Centre and Delhi government for interest-free subordinate debt of Rs 3,565.64 crore from each for repaying DAMEPL.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 27 : Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday cried foul over the way the Narendra Modi government has purportedly decided make the Hindustan Samachar news agency the sole news source for Doordarshan and All India Radio.

In a tweet, Vijayan said: "The move by @prasarbharati to make Hindustan Samachar, a news agency with links to Sangh Parivar, the sole news source for @DDNational & @AkashvaniAIR is an attempt to saffronise news and silence dissent. Secular and democratic forces must unite to resist such communal schemes." Vijayan added that the founder General Secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and RSS leader Shivram Sankar Apte had started the news agency which worked for the Sangh Parivar.

"Right from the time the Modi government assumed office, they have been trying to keep Prasar Bharati under their wing and it must be seen the way they failed to air the speech of the then Tripura Chief Minister on Independence Day but gave the live transmission of RSS chief Mohan Bhagawat's speech on Vijayadashmi day," he said, terming this "high-handedness".
Gurugram, Feb 27 : The preparations for organising the G20 Summit meeting of the anti-corruption working group from March 1 to 4, in Gurugram are gaining momentum.

Arrangements have been made for displaying the Haryanvi Culture from the IGI Airport to the Leela Hotel here to welcome the delegates, officials said on Monday.

Chief Secretary, Sanjeev Kaushal, along with Director General of Police, P.K. Agrawal on Monday reviewed the preparations for the G20 meeting of the Anti Corruption Working Group. The necessary directions have also been given to officers.

Kaushal said that the foreign delegates would experience India's warm welcoming tradition of 'Atithi Devo Bhava', and the spirit of Haryana's rich cultural heritage.

He was also apprised about the programmes being organised during the summit to be held in Gurugram.

The Chief Secretary reviewed the preparations made at the places fixed to be visited by the delegates at Museum Camera, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Transport Museum and Pratapgarh Farm.

He also reviewed the route plan, traffic control and security arrangements from the airport to the venue fixed for the meeting.

The arrangements for the stay of the delegates and tours of sightseeing places have been reviewed.

Police personnel have also been given special training for the G20 Summit.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : Hyderabad's well-known orthopaedic surgeon Dr Mazharuddin Ali Khan allegedly shot himself dead at his residence in the city on Monday, police said.

Khan, 60, took the extreme step at his residence in Banjara Hills. He was rushed to Apollo Hospital in Jubilee Hills but doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Khan was Superintendent of Owaisi Hospital and was also father-in-law of AIMIM President and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi's second daughter.

The physician had a gunshot wound on the right side of his head. Police shifted the body for autopsy.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Joel Davis said Khan apparently shot himself dead due to property and family disputes.

The police officer said the doctor had the gun license and investigations were on to verify if he used the licensed gun for the extreme step. "Prima facie, he killed himself with his licensed weapon but investigations are on," he said.

Khan is believed to have killed himself four hours before he was brought to the hospital. He was alone at his home and when he did not respond to phone calls, some relatives had gone to check on him. He was found in a pool of blood and was taken to hospital.

Khan had been associated with Owaisi Hospital since its inception. His son Dr Abid Ali Khan had married Asaduddin Owaisi's second daughter in 2020.
Damascus, Feb 27 : Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry met Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus on Monday, in the first visit by a top Egyptian diplomat to Syria since the start of the Syrian civil war about 12 years ago.

During their meeting, Shoukry conveyed a message from Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, who reaffirmed his country's support for Syria to face the repercussions of the earthquakes, the media office of the Syrian Presidency reported.

Shoukry also conveyed the Egyptian President's willingness to boost and develop relations between the two countries, according to the report, Xinhua news agency reported.

Shoukry said his country considered the Syrian-Egyptian relationship an essential pillar in protecting the Arab countries, stressing that Egypt will always stand ready to help Syria and its people.

For his part, Assad noted that Syria is willing to enhance relations with Arab countries, especially Egypt.

On February 6, strong earthquakes jolted large swathes of areas along the Turkish-Syrian border and killed tens of thousands of people in the two countries.

Since the deadly quakes, Assad's government, which was suspended from the Arab League in 2011, has received calls and aid from a number of Arab leaders, including al-Sisi.

On Sunday, Assad received in Damascus a delegation of Arab parliamentary leaders, including Egypt's Parliament Speaker Hanafy Ali El-Gebali.
Dhaka, Feb 27 : Bangladesh's Cabinet on Monday passed a proposal that paved the way for Bangladeshis to acquire dual citizenship of 44 more countries.

After a cabinet meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the chair, spokesman Mahbub Hossain told reporters that the Cabinet approved that Bangladeshis can avail dual citizenship of 44 newly-added countries while keeping their Bangladeshi citizenship, Xinhua news agency reported.

Previously, Bangladeshis could hold dual citizenship of 57 countries besides their country of birth.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : In an oblique reference to the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the CBI in connection with the excise policy scam, the Congress on Monday termed the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Income Tax Department "harassment tools" of the BJP-led Central government.

"@INCIndia has always held the belief that institutions like the ED, CBI and Income Tax Department have become instruments of political vendetta and harassment under 'Modi Sarkar'. These institutions have lost all professionalism. Opposition leaders are selectively targeted to destroy their reputation," Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said, without mentioning anything about the arrest of the deputy of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

The Congress' reaction has come 24 hours after Sisodia was arrested by the CBI following a day-long questioning on Sunday, even as the leaders of the party's Delhi unit welcomed the move. In fact, Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi had come up with a clarification after initially supporting Sisodia.

Singhvi tweeted: "It is but obvious that my tweet at 3.36 p.m. on February 26 on Manish Sisodia was in the context of my appearance for him as senior counsel in many cases and not on behalf of the Congress party, though space constraints made me inadvertently omit the mentioning of this fact." On Sunday, Singhvi, who is a senior lawyer, tweeted: "God be with Manish ji. Distressing to see such repeated, flagrant, egregious and shameless misuse of arrest power. #Sisodia Cnot be flight risk, suborning evidence or witnesses or non cooperation after almost a year of investigation & interrogation. How & why arrest after so long?" According to a source, the reason for the late reaction was the silence of the Aam Aadmi Party when Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi were summoned by the ED.

However, many Opposition leaders, including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, have condemned Sisodia's arrest.

"The arrest of @msisodia by CBI is another example of how @BJP4India misuses the Union government's agencies to intimidate the opposition. It's a blatant abuse of power and an attack on democracy. Such repression undermines the very foundation of our nation and should be resisted," he tweeted.
Kolkata, Feb 27 : Polling for the bypoll to the Sagardighi Assembly constituency in West Bengal's Murshidabad district concluded on Friday with a voter turnout of of 73.49 per cent recorded till 5 p.m.

"It will take some time to get the final polling percentage. In all probability, it will be announced on Tuesday morning. Going by the rate of polling till 5 p.m., it can be said that the voter turnout was quite high going by bypoll standards. Barring some sporadic incidents of violence, the polling process was more or less peaceful," said an official from the office of the state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress candidate Debasish Bandopadhyay alleged that the central armed forces resorted to unprovoked lathicharge on his party supporters outside booth No. 73.

"One of our supporters has been severely injured in the lathicharge. In certain cases, the central armed forces even attacked our party workers entering their houses," Bandopadhyay alleged.

Left Front-supported Congress candidate Bayron Biswas alleged booth capturing by Trinamool workers at booth No. 62.

There were also allegations against the BJP of trying to allure voters by offering them food packets in front of certain polling booths.

The bypoll was necessitated following the sudden demise of Trinamool MLA Subrata Saha on December 29 last year.

He was a three-time Trinamool legislator from Sagardighi, securing victories in 2011, 2016 and 2021.

In 2021, he had defeated BJP's Mafuja Khatun by a margin of 50,216 votes.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : A Delhi court on Monday issued summons to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief and former Railways Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, his kin and others in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)'s land for Job scam case.

The CBI had filed a charge sheet in the case on October 10, 2022, against 16 persons including the former Bihar Chief Minister's wife and daughter and sanction was then obtained to prosecute them.

Special Judge Geetanjali Goel of Rouse Avenue Courts observed that, prima facie, the on-record report shows that offences have been committed under diffrent sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Taking cognisance of the said offences, the judge then summoned the accused persons for March 15.

The CBI has alleged that various residents of Bihar were appointed as substitutes in "Group-D posts" during 2004 to 2009 in different zones of Railways located at Mumbai, Jabalpur, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Hajipur.

In view of the above-mentioned allegation, the individuals themselves or their families transferred their land in the name of the then Railways Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's family members and company AK Infosystems Private Ltd, which was subsequently taken over by his family members.

It has been alleged that CBI that there was no advertisement or any public notice issued for substitutes' appointment in the zonal railways.

The court recorded: "It is stated that investigation had revealed that the candidates were considered for their engagement without any need for substitutes and there was no urgency for their appointment which was one of the main criteria behind the engagement of substitutes and they joined their duties much later from the approval of their appointment and they were subsequently regularised."
The state Board of Higher Education has decided to oppose a bill that would allow Bismarck State College and Dickinson State University to change policy and make it easier to get rid of tenured faculty.

The vote on Thursday was 8-0, Prairie Public reported. The board, which oversees the 11 public colleges and universities in North Dakota, is suggesting a study of the issue that would involve the board and legislators.

House Bill 1446, introduced by House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson, passed the House 66-27 and will now be considered by the Senate. Supporters of the legislation calling for a four-year pilot project at BSC and DSU say it would help ensure tenured faculty are meeting obligations and remaining assets to their institutions. Opponents say weakening tenure would make it harder to recruit faculty to the state.

Board member Nick Hacker suggested the study. He told the board he believes in North Dakotas right to work law.

"We have tenure over here in higher ed, that treats employees -- in particular, state employees -- differently than how other state employees are treated," he said. "I understand a lot of the reasons. I'm not against tenure -- that's not the point. But I do think there should be more engagement about this than purely just the board."

Lisa Montplaisir, the faculty advisor to the board, said there already is a process laid out for faculty review -- and if things arent going well, the faculty member receives a notice, and an improvement plan is supposed to be in place for the next year.

"Our concern is that, there seems to be a breakdown in the process, if we're jumping to the conclusion that faculty are not meeting their expectations," Montplaisier told the board. "But that's never been in a review process. Or maybe there's a breakdown at those administrative levels. That is the crux of where some of the conversation needs to happen."

The Council of College Faculties also has submitted a resolution opposing the bill. Nick Archuleta, president of North Dakota United, which represents more than 11,000 public employees and teachers, opposes the legislation, in part because he believes it might "have a chilling effect on faculty members' willingness to shine a light on fraud, or misuse of taxpayers' dollars, at an institution."

DSU President Stephen Easton supports the bill. BSC President Doug Jensen hasn't taken a position. The BSC Faculty Senate thinks the legislation threatens the school's polytechnic mission "because it would make us less competitive for the talent we need to prepare tomorrows workforce." The Higher Ed board approved BSCs charter to become a polytechnic institution in 2018.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Monday held nationwide protests against the arrest of Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the CBI in connection with the 2021-22 excise policy case.

The party workers held protests in Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, among other paces.

At the AAP headquarters in Delhi, hundreds of party workers and supporters, including the top AAP leadership, gathered to protest against the arrest of Sisodia, who was sent to five-day CBI remand by a Delhi court on Monday.

AAP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh termed Sisodia's arrest as a well-planned conspiracy hatched by the BJP, and claimed that it has bben carried out at this point in time to deflect the questions that are being raised by the people of the country over the link between the Adani Group and the BJP-led Central government.

Holding a press conference at the party headquarters here, Singh claimed that the Central government is involved in scams worth not a few thousand but lakhs of crores of rupees and therefore to deflect the blame from their misdeeds, they have decided to arrest Sisodia on a 'fake' case.

He pointed out that this was done despite there being no evidence to arrest the Deputy CM, adding that Sisodia's house was raided for over 14-hours but nothing was found there.

Singh also highlighted how raids were conducted by the probe agencies at Sisodia's office and ancestral village, but without any success.

Despite this, the CBI has now accused Sisodia of receiving a bribe of Rs 10,000 crore, Singh said as he alleged that it has been crafted to deflect the blame from the scams that have taken place involving the BJP of late.

AAP's Delhi convenor and Cabinet minister Gopal Rai questioned the CBI's actions, stating that Sisodia has been presenting himself before the CBI whenever summoned and that the CBI had no response to the court's question as to why it required his five-day remand.

Rai said that AAP will keep cooperating with the investigation, but if the arrest is a means to spread terror among the people, they will answer back.

AAP MLA Atishi alleged that Narendra Modi is running Delhi like a dictator and claimed that Delhi Police openly entered the AAP office and dragged party workers out from inside.

She added that AAP workers were protesting peacefully inside the party headquarters when they were physically dragged out by Delhi Police and detained.

Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had tweeted, "I am told that most CBI officers were against Manish's arrest. All of them have huge respect for him and there is no evidence against him. But the political pressure to arrest him was so high that they had to obey their political masters."
Hyderabad, Feb 27 : "Saif or Sanjay, we will not spare the guilty", said Telangana Minister K.T. Rama Rao on Monday in his first reaction to the suicide of a post-graduate medical student of Kakatiya Medical College due to alleged harassment by her senior.

Addressing a public meeting at Sodashapally in Hanamkonda district, he slammed the opposition parties for what he called politicising every small issue.

Rama Rao expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Dharavathi Preethi and assured them that the state government will stand by them "Whoever has done injustice to Dr Preethi, be it Saif, Sanjay or anyone else, we will not spare them. We will make sure that they are punished as per law," he said.

Warangal police have arrested her senior M.A. Saif who allegedly targeted Preethi with insulting comments, which believed to have led to the girl committing suicide.

Preethi, a first year student of the post graduate (MD) in the department of Anaesthesia at Kakatiya Medical College (KMC) in Warangal, succumbed at a hospital in Hyderabad on Sunday night, five days after she allegedly took a lethal injection.

Last rites of the 26-year-old tribal were performed at Girni Thanda in Jangaon district on Monday afternoon.

Warangal police on February 24 arrested Saif, a second year student in the Department of Anaesthesia.

Police said the targeted harassment of Preethi by her senior which could have driven her to attempt suicide.

Booked for abetment to suicide, he was also charged under the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and the Anti-Ragging Act.

Meanwhile, ministers E. Dayakar Rao and Satyavati Rathod visited Preethi's house and consoled her family. The ministers assured the family that the guilty will not be spared. They also assured the girl's family that the government will stand by them.

Dayakar Rao said while the state government has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia to the family, he would give Rs 20 lakh on his behalf. He said the proposal to provide government jobs to Preethi's sister and brother was under consideration of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao.

The ministers also condemned the attempts by BJP and Congress to politicise the issue.
New Delhi, Feb 27 : A 22-year-old man sustained two gunshot injuries after two armed men barged into his office in Ranhola area on Delhi's outskirts on Monday and opened fire on him, a police official said.

Police said that the injured man, identified as Hitesh, is undergoing treatment at a hospital while over a dozen empty cartridges were recovered from the spot.

According to police, on Monday, a police control room call was received regarding a firing incident at cable office in Chanchal Park following which a police team rushed to the spot.

There it was found that three unidentified men came on a bike to the cable & wifi office on Som Bazar road in Chanchal Park.

"Two men entered the office and one of them fired three rounds at Hitesh. Hitesh sustained gun shot injuries. Thereafter, the men came out of the office and then all three again fired gunshots at the glass of the office, before fleeing away," the senior police official said.

"Injured Hitesh was taken to Rathi Hospital as he sustained two gunshot injuries. A total of 13 empty cartridges were found outside the office and three empty cartridges and a few broken lead pieces were found lying inside the office," the official added.

The official said that the motive of the assault is being ascertained, and different teams have been constituted to nab the accused.
Get ready to experience a new level of simplicity and efficiency in managing multi-cloud governance with PaCAI.

Firefly, an innovator that is forging new ground for managing multi-cloud infrastructure, today announced it has created the first AI-driven policy-as-code (PAC) generator that is implemented within a cloud asset management platform. This new capability empowers cloud engineers to control their cloud resources without requiring knowledge of unique policy automation syntax, bringing a new level of simplicity and efficiency to multi-cloud governance.

Introducing PaCAI, the groundbreaking Policy-as-Code generator within the Firefly Cloud Asset Management solution, that utilizes the latest advancements in AI technology to offer users an effortless and intuitive way to create customized policies for multi-cloud. With PaCAI, users can simply provide a natural language prompt describing their desired policy, and using the OpenAI GPT Model model, PACAI will seamlessly and automatically generate the corresponding code for the desired policy.

Policy-as-Code is critical to preventing misconfigurations

For companies that are cloud-forward, with multiple cloud service providers and usually multiple cloud accounts, achieving governance for their cloud infrastructure is very difficult. The 2023 State of IaC Report found that reliability and governance are chief concerns of managing cloud infrastructures. Empowering developers to self-serve their infrastructure can be a double-edged sword. While it can speed the velocity of DevOps development, it can compound an already challenging cloud platform management challenge when many people have the ability to change the cloud configurations used.

At a presentation during Kubernetes Day in Amsterdam last week, Hashicorp shared that 9% of cloud costs can be attributed to cloud misconfigurations. Similarly, Trend Micro's report reveals that infrastructure misconfigurations or failures are responsible for up to 70 percent of security events. According to a Gartner report, up to 99% of cloud environment failures will be attributed to human errors. Having the ability to automatically apply guardrails that prevent misconfigurations can save not only cloud costs, but improve reliability and security as well.

By applying automated policies, users can ensure, for instance, that the less expensive EC3 is used instead of EC2. (Firefly users have saved tens of thousands through this insight alone.) It can also ensure that S3 buckets are not open to public access, and identify other very detailed misconfigurations like these. Firefly has been including OPA guardrails in its Cloud Asset Management solution, along with custom rules that enable bespoke policies. (A favorite use for custom rules is ensuring consistent labeling of cloud assets to simplify management and reporting.) This blog article explains the integration in more detail.

Avoiding the need to know yet another language

Open Policy Agent uses Rego, a purpose-built declarative policy language. While not too difficult to learn, it is yet another skill needed by already-stretched DevOps and platform engineers.

Fireflys new PaCAI capability within its Cloud Asset Management solution, abstracts away that concern. By using AI technology, Firefly helps users craft their own unique policies by stating the requirement in natural English language. The user enters their query just as they would ask a person to apply the rule, then PaCAI turns it into policy language that can be applied to cloud infrastructure directly through Firefly. An evaluation button shows what the policy violations would be. If the user doesnt like the anticipated results, they can ask for a new iteration of the code to produce the desired result. This new policy engine works on cloud, Kubernetes, and SaaS applications, applying consistent policies across multi-cloud architectures and all of an organizations cloud assets.

End-to-end cloud change management

Policy automation can help DevOps teams and platform engineers alike by providing consistent environments for cloud-native applications, save time in both coding and troubleshooting, and can improve an organization's adherence to industry regulations and security requirements.

While policy automation can prevent misconfigurations, it is not enough on its own. Cloud native organizations also need the ability to detect configuration changes (aka drift) not covered by policies and have visibility into how those changes came about. The Firefly Cloud Asset Management solution combines the new PaCIA with Drift Detection and another recently released feature, Asset History for comprehensive cloud control.



PaCAI proactively prevents errors and misconfigurations,

Drift detection and remediation identifies changes to configurations and provides precise remediation,

Asset History provides a powerful audit tool showing who changed what, when and how for changes not governed by policies.

Together these capabilities help organizations achieve a fully automated and governed multi-cloud infrastructure.

Firefly is accepting early access to PaCAI. Register at http://www.gofirefly.io/pacai-beta.

About Firefly

Firefly is a privately held company with customers globally from start-ups to Fortune100s. Firefly offers a Cloud Asset Management solution that enables DevOps and platform engineers to rediscover their entire cloud footprint, understand which parts of it are codified as infrastructure-as-code versus unmanaged, detect configuration drifts, and manage a single inventory of all their cloud resources across Multi-cloud, multi-accounts and Kubernetes deployments. Firefly provides peace of mind by avoiding costly downtime, minimizing risk of failure by mitigating drifts, and replacing manual effort with automated processes that enable faster feature release with less effort and more consistent results.

This is not Fireflys first foray into AI. The open source AIaC infrastructure as code (IaC) generator, also powered by OpenAI tecnology and launched December 2022, has quickly achieved more than 1700 stars from the open source community.

For more information on Firefly, visit http://www.gofirefly.io.

Investor Relations

Ido Neeman, ido@gofirefly.io

Media & Analyst Contact

Cindy Blake, cindy@gofirefly.io
Dr. Marko Kamel In A State-Of-The-Art Surgical Suite For Dental Implants "We are the specialists in implant dentistry," Dr Kamel explains, "not just the doctors, but the entire dental staff are the experts in dental implant cases, who have the latest technologies, various types of dental implants, and the techniques and knowledge to serve every patient's specific needs."

Woodbury Dental Arts started as a general dentistry practice but after years of transforming smiles using dental dentistry, they are proud to announce that they are transitioning into a dental practice entirely focused on dental implants. Being one of the top producing implant providers in Minnesota for full mouth implant surgeries & restorations, the practice is dedicating all of their time to help transform lives with brand new smiles.

Zygomatic and pterygoid implants for severe bone loss solutions are great examples of the proven cutting edge procedures patients are able to receive from a dedicated implant center, as additional training is required to perform this advanced treatment. This office has placed over 500 zygomatic dental implants all together and places over 3,000 dental implants every year.

The impressive number of dental implant placements is thanks to this dedicated office having its own in-house dental lab so they can give every patient individualized and precise care. The office places so many implants that they run their own in-house lab to capacity, necessitating an upcoming lab expansion for Zirconium, Titanium, and PMMA milling capabilities.

Dr. Marko Kamel, the primary practitioner at Woodbury Dental Arts is excited about being a dedicated expert center on placing dental implants. I want to be specialized in the specific niche in dentistry that I most excel at, he says. An expert needs to spend over 10 thousand hours in a niche to become an expert, and after years of performing dental implant procedures, I need to focus my time fully embracing the expertise that I have.

Dr. Kamel strives to spread his expertise to other doctors across the country as well. One of the changes that come with the Implant Center is a brand new training center attached for doctors learning how to perform implant surgeries and taking advantage of the combined knowledge of Woodbury Dental Arts processes and procedures for an efficient workflow for full arch cases.

The entire staff of Woodbury Dental Arts has also embraced their roles as leaders in placing trusted and lasting dental implants. "We are the specialists in implant dentistry," Dr. Kamel explains, "not just the doctors, but the entire dental staff are the experts in dental implant cases, the latest technologies, various types of dental implants, and the techniques and knowledge to serve every patient's specific needs."



Woodbury Dental Arts is transitioning to focus on entirely dental implant procedures

Offer Zygomatic and Pterygoid implants for severe bone loss solutions

Dedicated training center for surgeons and in-built implant lab

About Woodbury Dental Arts: The Woodbury Dental Arts office is committed to providing patients with exceptional care and quality service as they continue to transform smiles as a newly dedicated implant center.
With water composition continuously monitored, Bowery can make immediate amendments to nutrient composition without prolonged subpar conditions for their crop. This means overall better crop quality, said Meena Sankaran, CEO & Founder of KETOS.

KETOS, Inc., a water intelligence innovator, announced today that Bowery Farming, the largest vertical farming company in the U.S, is expanding its use of KETOS to autonomously monitor water quality in real-time across farm locations.

Bowery builds smart indoor farms near cities, growing fresher, pesticide-free Protected Produce in precisely controlled environments, 365 days a year. The KETOS SHIELD solution supports Bowerys process optimization, eliminates lab costs related to manual water testing, and offers lab-accurate water quality data to support crop yield, while managing nutrient concentration and product quality.

Integrating the KETOS units into our farms enables us to maintain the highest quality of water, plant, and nutritional health, said Tyler Anderson, Lead Agricultural Systems Manager, Bowery. Understanding water composition for a wide variety of characteristics in near real time is an important enabler to achieving the kinds of high quality, pesticide-free, and nutritious food Bowery would like to make available to all.

Taking a comprehensive approach and using KETOS at all farms brings Bowery a full 360-degree view of data. KETOS also supports Bowerys water reuse efforts. Bowerys local indoor farms grow with over 90% less water than conventional or organic farms.

Bowery is a leader in vertical farming and we look forward to continuing support of their mission to make fresh, locally-grown food more accessible to communities across the U.S., said Meena Sankaran, CEO & Founder of KETOS. With water composition continuously monitored, Bowery can make immediate amendments to nutrient composition without prolonged subpar conditions for their crop. This means overall better crop quality.

Bowery, the largest vertical farming company in the United States, designs and builds smart indoor environments to reimagine the future of food. Through its network of smart indoor farms and proprietary end-to-end technology, Bowery is transforming the entire fresh food supply chain to be simpler, safer, and vastly more sustainable. Bowerys farms are 100x+ more productive than traditional agriculture while using a fraction of the resources - all enabled by leading-edge technology.

Bowery is scaling quickly with five farms in operation, including a state-of-the-art R&D and innovation farms for pioneering indoor Agriculture Science, and two commercial farms under development that will more than double the companys total production by 2023. Bowerys brand has been in the market since 2016 and is currently sold in over 1,400 locations including Whole Foods, Ahold Delhaize, Amazon, Safeway/Albertsons, and Walmart.

About KETOS

KETOS delivers smarter, safer, and more sustainable water solutions to change the way the world thinks about water. This is done through a comprehensive offering of industrial-grade patented hardware, an IoT communication framework, and a robust software platform to address global water management issues. Real-time monitoring and understanding of water, both quantitatively and qualitatively, helps address both water efficiency (leak-detection & usage) and water quality (safety), ultimately increasing water availability. With the power of actionable and predictive water intelligence on a global scale, KETOS seeks to solve a number of the worlds water challenges with the goal of preserving this quintessential resource for generations to come. Learn more at https://ketos.co.
"We are incredibly proud to renew and expand our scholarship program with NSCS, said LaDonna Bond, GEICO's Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars(NSCS) and GEICO announced today the renewal of a diversity, equity, and inclusion-focused scholarship program available exclusively to NSCS members to assist students in achieving their higher education goals. Through this program, GEICO is proud to offer 12 different scholarships that will help 35 NSCS members pay for their education.

GEICO is an industry leader in community investment. Whether it is feeding those in need, providing resources to students at Title I schools or amplifying its associates' efforts with local nonprofits, GEICO is committed to campaigns and partnerships that engage communities in need and provide significant impact.

The NSCS/GEICO scholarships include:



NSCS Scholarship for Minority Students in STEM

NSCS First in the Family (first generation college student) Scholarship

NSCS Scholarship for Business Students with Disabilities

NSCS Scholarship for Military Veterans in STEM

NSCS Scholarship for Women in Business

NSCS Scholarship for Women in an MBA Program

NSCS Scholarship for LGBTQ Students in Business

NSCS Certificate Program Scholarships

NSCS HBCU Student of the Year  Changemaker Award

NSCS Latinx Student of the Year  Changemaker Award

NSCS AAPI Student of the Year  Changemaker Award

NSCS Students with Disabilities  Changemaker Award

We are incredibly proud to renew and expand our scholarship program with NSCS, said LaDonna Bond, GEICO's Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. At GEICO, we believe strongly in intentional inclusion and are deeply committed to making a lasting impact on the communities where our associates and customers live and serve through cultural, social, and civic engagement. These scholarships are an opportunity for us to support students from diverse backgrounds as they pursue their education.

We are very excited about GEICOs increased commitment to NSCS members through their scholarship program, said Stephen Loflin, Founder of NSCS. Last year, NSCS and GEICO were able to support 15 students which was amazing. This year, GEICO has almost doubled their funding and will now be supporting 35 NSCS members from diverse backgrounds. In addition to the financial support, the recognition that comes with being selected as a GEICO scholarship recipient or GEICO Changemaker reinforces the academic and personal success our members have achieved, and we cant thank GEICO enough for their support.

In 2020, NSCS launched the Scholar Initiative to combat the rising cost of higher education for students. With a diverse membership, the goal was to increase opportunities for minority and marginalized communities. In 2021, NSCS was pleased to continue the partnership with GEICO to offer diversity-focused scholarships. Through these GEICO-sponsored scholarships, NSCS has been able to make an impact and support NSCS members who are first-generation students, minority students in STEM, HBCU and Latino/a/x students. This past year, NSCS expanded those opportunities to include new awards focused on Women in Business, the AAPI community and LGBTQ+ members. In total, 15 students were awarded $60,000 in scholarships!

The 2022 Scholarship Recipients were:

NSCS First in the Family Spring Award



Anastasia Duenas, Northern Virginia Community College

Madison Valdez, Weber State University

Soleil Kennerly, Prince Georges Community College

NSCS Scholarships for Minority Students in STEM



Alexis Martin, Florida State University

Anya Ramsamooj, University of California, Irvine

Jimiah Campbell, The University of Mississippi

NSCS Scholarships for Women in Business



Bailey Sims, Butler University

Madison Slater, Florida State University

Yasmin Yubran, George Mason University

NSCS Scholarships for LGBTQ Students in Business



Melanie Davis, University of Maryland Global Campus

Mercedes Leismeister, Iowa State University

Sara Quesinberry, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

NSCS HBCU Student of the Year: Changemaker Award



Yahmir Mohammed, Jackson State University

NSCS Latinx Student of the Year: Changemaker Award



Sidney Martin, Hillsborough Community College

NSCS AAPI Student of the Year: Changemaker Award



Kaylie Chong, University of California, Irvine

For more information, visit http://www.nscs.org.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF COLLEGIATE SCHOLARS (NSCS)

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) is an honors organization that recognizes and elevates high-achieving first- and-second year student. With its three pillars of scholarship, leadership and service, NSCS is proud to provide career and graduate school connections, leadership and service opportunities and gives out more than $500,000 dollars annually in scholarships (often with multiple recipients per award), awards and chapter funds. NSCS has nearly 300 chapters nationwide and nearly two million lifetime members globally. NSCS is a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit, certified member of the Association of College Honor Societies, member of the National Collegiate Honors Council, American Association of Community Colleges, and 100 percent FERPA compliant, per an independent review by AACRAO.

ABOUT GEICO

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) was founded in 1936 and insures more than 28 million vehicles in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. A member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies, GEICO constantly strives to make lives better by protecting people against unexpected events while saving them money and providing an outstanding customer experience. Along with personal auto insurance, commercial auto and personal umbrella coverages are also available. Homeowners, renters, condo, flood, identity theft, term life, and more coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Visit geico.com for a quote or to learn more.
Ideal Option, a national leader in evidence-based treatment for addiction to fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, alcohol and polysubstance, has been awarded grant funding through Oregons M110 initiative to expand services to Redmond. Patients will receive primarily buprenorphine-based medication-assisted treatment from an onsite addiction medicine specialist.

According to former Deschutes County District Attorney John Hummel, fentanyl, a dangerous and highly addictive synthetic opioid, is largely to blame for overdose deaths skyrocketing in Central Oregon. Figures released by the Oregon Health Authority showed at least 29 people in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties died from drug overdoses in 2021. At least 24 of the regions drug overdose deaths occurred in Deschutes County, an 85% increase compared to 2019.

Ideal Options 2022 Annual Patient Outcomes Report for Oregon shows fentanyl positive rates at enrollment continue to rise and more patients are testing positive for multiple substances. In 2022, 62% of patients tested positive for more than one substance at enrollment and 30% tested positive for 3 or more substances. Among patients who remained in treatment with Ideal Option during 2022, urine drug testing shows:



97% less fentanyl use

88% less methamphetamine use

85% less total opioid use

96% less heroin use

62% less benzodiazepine use

The new clinic in Redmond is Ideal Options second location in Deschutes County and is opening at a time of desperate need for expanded access to evidence-based treatment from experienced providers. Ideal Option has been specializing in addiction medicine using buprenorphine-based medications such as Suboxone for 11 years and currently operates 87 clinics in 11 states.

I am excited that our much-needed services are now available in Redmond, said Shawnda Jennings, peer outreach specialist at Ideal Option. As someone in recovery myself, I know how important it is to have easy access to treatment and am so grateful to be able to give back to the community that helped me.

The new Ideal Option clinic in Redmond is open Monday  Thursday, 7:30 a.m.  6 p.m. and is located at 1228 NW Canal Blvd, Redmond, OR 97756.

Most forms of insurance are accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid, and patients can typically get started on treatment for fentanyl, heroin, alcohol or other substances within 1-3 business days.

Patients can make an appointment by calling 1.877.522.1275 or visiting http://www.idealoption.com.

About Ideal Option

Headquartered in Kennewick, Washington, Ideal Option was founded in 2012 and has since helped more than 65,000 patients through a network of 87 office-based medication-assisted treatment (MAT) clinics across 11 states. With a mission to serve under-served communities, Ideal Option accepts most forms of insurance including Medicaid and Medicare. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available.

Ideal Option's team of medical providers carry certifications in Addiction and Emergency Medicine, Internal, and Family Medicine, among other specialties. The company also employs social workers, caseworkers, counselors, and mental health practitioners. This holistic approach helps drive positive outcomes, including family stability, stable housing, improved overall health, and reduced rates of recidivism.

In all the communities it serves, Ideal Option collaborates with existing stakeholders and providers to improve the continuum of care. This approach includes partnerships with emergency rooms and county jail systems, where individuals with substance use disorder often appear, as well as collaborating with numerous support agencies and municipal programs addressing social needs such as housing, mental health, and nutrition support.
"Jeffrey is one of the most experienced and influential IT Channel Partner industry leaders..." Eric Rabinowitz, Chairman and Partner of East Brunswick, NJ-based IT Channel Marketing company Nurture Marketing.

Jeffrey Goldstein is the Managing Director of Queue Associates, Inc., a global Microsoft Solutions Partner company with one of its primary offices in Iselin, New Jersey. Mr. Goldstein is honored to have been officially named a 2023 NJBIZ Leader in Digital Technology.

NJBIZ, founded in 1987, is New Jersey's leading business journal and is also well-known for its events honoring the state's top business professionals. The 2023 NJBIZ Leader in Digital Technology award is a newly curated honor that evolved from NJBIZ's Digi-Tech Innovators Awards and celebrates companies and individuals impacting the digital industry.

Read NJBIZ's article and the complete 2023 honoree list here.

ABOUT JEFFREY GOLDSTEIN

Jeffrey Goldstein received a nomination for the prestigious NJBIZ award in December 2022 from his longtime colleague Eric Rabinowitz, Chairman and Partner of East Brunswick, NJ-based IT Channel Marketing company Nurture Marketing. In addition to conducting business in New Jersey, Mr. Goldstein is also a lifelong resident of the state. Mr. Rabinowitz is also an NJBIZ honoree  in the 2022 NJBIZ Icon Awards  and a several-decade New Jersey resident. He explained his reasoning for nominating Goldstein:

"Jeffrey is one of the most experienced and influential IT Channel Partner industry leaders. He is also a major champion for New Jersey business and innovation and has contributed to  both through his business and volunteerism  numerous digital transformation initiatives in the state. Jeffrey is a past President and current Board member of the Americas New Jersey Chapter of the International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners (IAMCP). Under Jeffrey's IAMCP NJ Presidency, membership and the quality of speakers, contributions, sponsorships, and events, grew significantly. Jeffrey was elected President of IAMCP Americas, serving from January 2017 to December 2019. In New Jersey, he continues concentrating on initiatives such as data privacy and technology in education (STEM) with leading local political and business figures. These include New Jersey Representatives Thomas Kean, Jr. and Josh Gottheimer, with whom Jeffrey collaborates through his ongoing work with the IAMCP and the Microsoft-supported community, Voices for Innovation (VFI)."

Mr. Goldstein developed an exclusive relationship with Microsoft on behalf of Queue Associates almost three decades ago, which led to it becoming one of the world's highest-certified and most respected Microsoft Partner organizations He has received countless nominations for his company, including the 2004 Microsoft Dynamics SL Partner of the Year Award and the 2017 Microsoft Channel Partner of the Year Award. Queue recently earned Microsoft's Solution Partner status in the new Microsoft Cloud Partner program launched at the end of 2022. Queue Associates currently serves over 472 clients in the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions and has over 71 full-time employees.

Mr. Goldstein is incredibly grateful to receive a spot on the 2023 NJBIZ honoree list. He is thankful for Mr. Rabinowitz's nomination and the support of his incredible team at Queue Associates.

ABOUT QUEUE ASSOCIATES | http://www.queueassoc.com

Queue Associates, Inc., with headquarters in Iselin, New Jersey, and offices around the world, focuses on implementing the Microsoft Dynamics 365 product suite, including Business Central, Finance & Supply Chain Management, Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Field Service, Project Operations and many more complimentary Microsoft solutions. The company aims to grow through perpetual digital transformation alongside its many clients  all in highly specialized industries  having the unique advantage of employees with backgrounds and experience in almost every specialized industry.
Dealer eProcess Named 2023 Google Premier Partner We are overjoyed to have earned Google Premier Partner status, said Joe Gillespie, Dealer eProcess CEO.

Dealer eProcess is proud to have earned an elite honor in automotive digital marketing by being recognized as a 2023 Google Premier Partner. This status is given to the top 3% of Google partners in the United States and reflects the dedication and marketing proficiency that the DEP Digital Marketing team provides to dealers on their Google Advertising campaigns.

Dealer eProcess has been a part of the Google Partners Program for several years, which is the first qualification to become considered as a Premier Partner. In order to achieve and maintain Partner status, Dealer eProcess Google Ads have to pass requirements within three categories: Performance, Spend, and Certification.

Premier Partner requirements are far more stringent and involve being in the top 3% of participating companies within a given country. Each year Google reviews the overall performance of their partners based on factors that can include but are not limited to: Existing Client Growth, New Client Growth, Client Retention, Production Diversification, and Annual Ads Spend. Premier Partners have access to the widest range of program benefits that Google offers allowing them to utilize product betas and insights briefing, direct access to Google engineers, and tap into the executive experience of Google leaders as well as other Premier Partners.

The Google Partners Team adds, Achieving Premier Partner status is an accomplishment worth celebrating and distinguishes [Dealer eProcess] as a Google Ads expert to clients and the industry. We greatly value the strategic partnership weve developed with [Dealer eProcess] and were thrilled to share Premier Partner benefits designed to help drive growth and success.

We are overjoyed to have earned Google Premier Partner status, said Joe Gillespie, Dealer eProcess CEO. This incredible achievement reflects our longstanding commitment to providing exceptional digital marketing solutions and we are excited about the opportunities it will bring to our dealer clients for even greater success.

Currently Dealer eProcess provides a full suite of award-winning services and performance-driven digital marketing solutions, including Google advertising and DMS attribution. They are also OEM certified digital advertising providers for Acura, Alfa Romeo, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, GMC, Honda, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Mazda, Mazda (Parts and Service), Mitsubishi, Ram, Subaru, Toyota (Parts and Service), and Volkswagen. The Dealer eProcess digital marketing team focuses on combining their distinct expertise with a unique blend of data and automation and unmatched client care to help dealerships efficiently achieve their marketing goals.

About Dealer eProcess

Dealer eProcess is a comprehensive website and digital marketing solution for automotive dealerships. They are known for their track record of customer care and innovative tools to help their clients dominate their market. Dealer eProcess has won dozens of awards and has been recognized within the industry for their cutting-edge technology. You can learn more about Dealer eProcess and their strategy-focused digital marketing options on their website: http://www.dealereprocess.com.

For the most up-to-date news, follow Dealer eProcess on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Bismarck State College will host up to 90 employers looking to add to their workforce at the 2023 Spring Career Fair.

The event is from 4-6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8, at the BSC National Energy Center of Excellence on campus. Attendees are advised to bring a resume and dress professionally.

College students and community members can meet local employers, discuss career options and network with other business professionals in a variety of industries. BSC officials also will be present to discuss career and academic opportunities at the school.

For more information contact the BSC Mystic Advising and Counseling Center at bsc.careerservices@bismarckstate.edu or 701-224-5752.
Community Sustainability Enterprise (CSE) announced today that they have been awarded $25,000 in funding from Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLBank Atlanta), one of the 11 district banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System.

The award is through the FHLBank Atlanta Heirs Property Prevention and Resolution Grant Initiative, announced last August. Funding through this initiative was made available to organizations which submitted pilot initiatives during the Heirs Property Prevention and Resolution Funders Forum, held on December 2, 2021.

CSE is honored to be selected by FHLBank Atlanta to partner on this critical wealth building initiative, said Deirdra Cox, President of Community Sustainability Enterprise. This initiative raises awareness of the impact of heirs property and helps strengthen the financial muscle mass of families and communities. Through this program, we will take bold strides to bridge the wealth gap in communities of color.

Kirk Malmberg, President and Chief Executive Officer of FHLBank Atlanta, congratulated CSE on being selected for an award. We are pleased to offer this award and we commend CSE for working to solve and prevent issues associated with heirs property, said Malmberg.

Arthur Fleming, FHLBank Atlantas Senior Vice President and Director of Community Investment Services, joined in congratulating CSE and noted that aside from resolving heirs property issues, the goal of the initiative is to raise awareness among state and local governments, developers, and other organizations. The funding we are providing to CSE will not only help provide tangible relief to families and communities impacted by heirs property, it will also help bring more attention to this issue and hopefully spur additional involvement from other key stakeholders that have a vested interest in resolving and preventing heirs property, said Fleming.

Heirs property occurs when a real property owner dies without a will that designates a successor owner, or without a recorded deed. It also occurs when property is left to multiple beneficiaries, resulting in a fractured or tangled title that is unmarketable and, if left unresolved, prevents the ability to sell, collateralize, improve, or otherwise transfer the property. Heirs property is a barrier to the accumulation of generational wealth, leads to neighborhood blight, and is a pervasive issue that disproportionately impacts racial and ethnic minority, low-wealth, and distressed urban and rural communities.

CSE expects to use the award to spread awareness, cultivate partnerships and leverage funding from additional donors.

About Community Sustainability Enterprise

Community Sustainability Enterprise (CSE), an economic and community developed focused Georgia based 501c3, whose vision is cultivating inclusive communities who turn jobs into careers, financial literacy into wealth and collective success into generational change: producing an equitable economy. Community Sustainability Enterprise is in the business of transforming families, businesses, and neighborhoods into thriving households and financially sustainable communities, who generate wealth and pass on family legacies.

About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta

FHLBank Atlanta offers competitively-priced financing, community development grants, and other banking services to help member financial institutions make affordable home mortgages and provide economic development credit to neighborhoods and communities. The Banks member are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, community development financial institutions, and insurance companies located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. FHLBank Atlanta is one of 11 district banks in the Federal Home Loan Bank System. Since 1990, the FHLBanks have awarded approximately $7.3 billion in Affordable Housing Program funds, assisting more than one million households.
Drinkmate, the most versatile home beverage carbonator, today announced their participation in the 2023 Inspired Home Show. Drinkmate will be exhibiting in booth L12708 at the Inspired Home Show held at McCormick Place in Chicago from March 4-7, 2023.

The Inspired Home Show is the leading Home + Housewares show in the United States. Covering all markets addressing the home and houseware business, The Inspired Home Show attracts buyers and suppliers from all over the world.

Drinkmates proprietary CO2 Fizz Infuser technology allows the consumer to carbonate any cold beverage safely and quickly. It accomplishes the consumer demand for more wholesome beverages by empowering users to control what goes into their drinks. Drinkmate is the first and most versatile at-home device that can carbonate any beverage, including wine, iced tea or coffee, juices, cocktails and can even refresh sodas or beer that lost their bubbles. Direct carbonation of drinks preserves their full flavor and fizz, compared to diluting the beverage by mixing it with soda water. Of course, Drinkmate carbonates water as well.

We are excited to be returning to the Inspired Home Show again this year, said Douglas Wang, Chief Executive Officer of Drinkmate. The 2022 show was great for us, helping us achieve double digit sales growth for the year, and were delighted to be back. We have been actively expanding our brand throughout North America, and other international markets, and are looking forward to networking with the industry to share the advances we have made to the Drinkmate product line and brand. At the show, we will be debuting the innovative Drinkmate LUX model, which elevates the home carbonation experience with an attractive stainless steel design. We invite Inspired Home attendees and our channel partners to visit us at booth L12708.

To learn more, please visit Drinkmate.

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About Drinkmate

Drinkmates mission is to allow consumers to get creative in discovering new beverages, drink healthier and have fun, while reducing plastic bottle waste. Its proprietary technology allows the consumer to carbonate any kind of beverage safely and quickly. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the company serves as the global headquarters for the Drinkmate brand with operations in Asia, Europe and the Americas. For more information, please visit http://www.Drinkmate.us
Suboptimal healthcare for diverse populations must be addressed. Our unique technology and the industrys largest health equity database will deliver the right information to the provider and patient within the visit workflow so they can personalize a care plan to best address the patients needs.

TruLite Health announced today that they have partnered with a leading healthcare organization to help address health equity with an innovative platform that focuses on clinical interventions at the point of care.

According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), health equity is the attainment of the highest level of health for all people, where everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their optimal health regardless of race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, geography, preferred language, or other factors that affect access to care and health outcomes. Health equity has become a growing priority for healthcare leaders, and TruLites platform aims to serve as a model for improving patient outcomes and reducing the overall cost of care.

In partnership with the Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation, TruLite is deploying Truity, a health equity platform that is a clinically integrated workflow tool to provide multi-level interventions and addresses the unique needs of patients at the point of care. The organizations will validate the platforms impact on frequent health equity challenges for caregivers.

The large number of clinical science issues resulting in suboptimal healthcare delivery for diverse populations must be addressed, said Alan Roga, MD, and CEO of TruLite. Our unique technology and the industrys largest actionable health equity database will deliver the right information and recommendations to both the provider and patient within the visit workflow so they can personalize the care plan in that moment to best address the patients needs.

The Parkview Mirro Center is well-known for its active engagement with emerging healthcare technology companies that address complex healthcare challenges. In addition to supporting the platforms design, the Mirro Center will assist TruLite in the optimization of the patient and provider experience through its highly regarded Innovation Team and User Experience (UX) Lab. UX projects are uniquely designed to drive provider engagement and patient empowerment, which are critical barriers to addressing inequities in healthcare.

We are excited to partner with TruLite and provide a clinical solution that helps us address health inequities, said Sarah GiaQuinta, Senior Vice President of Community Health and Equity, Parkview Health. Health equity is a complex issue, and we realize that we need to take a multipronged approach to create sustainable impact. The Truity platform is the first tool we have that leverages both science and clinical research to positively impact equity.

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About Parkview Health

Parkview Health is a not-for-profit, community-based health system serving a northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio population of nearly 950,000. Parkview Healths mission is to improve health and inspire well-being in the communities it serves. With more than 15,000 co-workers, it serves as the regions largest employer.

Parkview Health includes ten hospitals and an extensive network of primary care and specialty care physicians. The flagship Parkview Regional Medical Center campus includes services such as the Parkview Cancer Institute, Parkview Heart Institute, Samaritan flight and ground transport program, Parkview Ortho Hospital, a certified stroke center, verified adult and pediatric trauma centers, Women's & Children's Hospital and an outpatient services center. Parkview Health has been designated a Magnet health system for nursing excellence.

Learn more about the Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation here.

About TruLite Health

TruLite Health offers the industrys first comprehensive health equity platform committed to breaking the chain of systemic inequity in healthcare and rebuilding patient trust. Truity, our enterprise solution, brings together a proprietary clinical knowledge base of health equity insights and recommendations with patient-specific clinical and social data sets, enabling care teams to offer actionable clinical, social, and behavioral interventions at the point of care for diverse populations.

TruLites unique health equity platform supports health systems, payers, and large employers to take swift action by closing health equity care gaps resulting in better patient outcomes, improved provider performance, and lower overall cost of care.

Learn more at trulitehealth.com.
Secrets of Sleepytime has eased bedtime struggles for my children and grandchildren for many years. Now, I want to share the quiet creatures with other children around the world and leave a legacy my family, students, and friends can share with children for years to come

Author Michele Pickel, PhD smooths the path to bedtime with Secrets of Sleepytime ($14.99, paperback, 9781662868702; $26.99, 9781662868719; $5.99, e-book, 9781662868726).

This lovely bedtime poem is accompanied by beautiful paintings that send children off to dreamland wrapped in the warm love of the Father of Lights.

Secrets of Sleepytime has eased bedtime struggles for my children and grandchildren for many years. Now, I want to share the quiet creatures with other children around the world and leave a legacy my family, students, and friends can share with children for years to come, said Pickel.

Professor Michele Pickel PhD is a literacy specialist with experience in early childhood, elementary, Christian and public education and an author and reviewer of curriculum and devotional materials. In 2012, Michele combined a lifelong love of horses with her educational expertise to create a new and unique program called Horse Powered Reading to help struggling readers. Pickel and her husband Steve live in Minnesota with their dog KaCee and four horses. She loves Jesus, her family and helping children around the world.

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Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the worlds largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. Secrets of Sleepytime is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.
AssuredPartners Regional President Brian Bair stated, Steve, Bob and their talented team have evolved IFS into one of the top independent agencies for employee benefits in the area. We are excited to join forces to continue building our presence in Delaware and look forward to the growth ahead.

Marking the third acquisition in 2023 for AssuredPartners (AP), IFS Benefits, LLC (IFS) of Newark, DE will join the national broker. Founded in 2001, IFS specializes in providing a wide range of employee benefits insurance products and services to clients throughout Delaware. The team of 17 will remain under the operational leadership of owners Steve Blewitt and Bob Sonchen.

At IFS, we have always been committed to delivering customized benefit solutions with thoughtful strategic planning, valuable professional services and web-based HR technology that promote lasting, trusted partnerships with our clients, said Blewitt. In joining AssuredPartners, we will only strengthen those relationships by continuing to provide the same local and personal touch our clients have come to appreciate and combine it with the resources and expertise of a larger operation.

Excellent service, integrity and dedication have always been the cornerstones of our business, said Sonchen. We are devoted to continuously expanding our knowledge and expertise in employee benefits and believe joining the team at AssuredPartners, a nationally recognized leader in the benefits arena, will give us that opportunity.

AssuredPartners Regional President Brian Bair stated, Steve, Bob and their talented team have evolved IFS into one of the top independent agencies for employee benefits in the area. We are excited to join forces to continue building our presence in Delaware and look forward to the growth ahead.

We are delighted to bring the team of professionals at IFS to our operation, said AssuredPartners President, Randy Larsen. The MidAtlantic is ripe with opportunity, and we believe that in joining forces with IFS, weve taken an important step in optimizing our employee benefits operations in the region.

For more information on IFS Benefits, please visit: https://ifs-benefits.com/

ABOUT ASSUREDPARTNERS, INC

Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, AssuredPartners is a full-service insurance broker providing commercial insurance, risk management, employee benefits through consulting and services. With over 9,200 employees located in offices throughout North America, England, Ireland, Belgium and Scotland, AssuredPartners is in the business of building relationships. While cementing powerful, lasting relationships built on trust earned from working openly and honestly with our partners. Thats what we call, Power through Partnership. For more information, call 513-624-1779, email jamie.reinert@assuredpartners.com or visit http://www.assuredpartners.com.


Agent of the Year Brook Sparks - Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty This is the first time we have had an agent earn the prestigious Coldwell Banker International Society of Excellence Award, which is the highest award offered by Coldwell Banker," says Pamela Smith, Vice President of Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty.

Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty is proud to announce Brook Sparks as their Top Producing Agent for the Firm, earning her the title of Agent of the Year for the 2nd year in a row.

The accolade is based on total sales volume and units sold for the year. In addition, Brook earned the Listing Agent of the Year award for the firm and is ranked in the top 10 of all selling agents on the Outer Banks*.

"This year was a beautiful mix of highs and lows. I was reminded that success is not always comfortable, and I had to get comfortable being uncomfortable to achieve my goals. Although it is only natural in my industry for professionals to quantify their successes by numbers and MLS rankings, I find myself ignoring statistics and focusing more on the satisfaction of my friends and clients. I also strive to remain an industry leader in high returning, luxury investment property purchases with a focus on 1031 exchanges.

In 2022, I was blessed to be trusted by repeat clients. I found myself leaning on my Currituck roots which led to the indescribable joys of helping my neighbors and friends find their first home or their dream home.

In 2023, my focus will remain on matching clients to the perfect property for their needs. Regardless of the price point and location, providing the most personalized service to all of my clients will remain paramount when I think about year-end accomplishments and goals. I am honored to be recognized for this prestigious award for the second year in a row, but I am more humbled to say that I helped others achieve their personal and investment goals. Thank you to my clients who continue to trust me," says Brook.

Brook also earned the coveted 2022 Coldwell Banker International Society of Excellence Award, which is awarded to less than 1% of all Coldwell Banker agents worldwide.

This is the first time we have had an agent earn the prestigious Coldwell Banker International Society of Excellence Award, which is the highest award offered by Coldwell Banker. Brook continues to amaze me with the service she provides to her clients. Whether she is selling a million-dollar investment home in Corolla or a charming single-family home on Currituck mainland, she treats every client with the same respect and dedication, providing them with a 5-star client experience. To top it off, she has a wonderful sense of humor and is a fun person to work with!

In addition to her successful real estate career, Brook dedicates her time to leading the Wounded Warrior in Action program. This organization brings purple heart recipients to the Outer Banks for a week of duck hunting, comradery, and relaxation. For the last 12 years, Brook has been instrumental in getting local restaurants, businesses, and our incredible community members involved in the project. Their support helps cover the costs of everything from hunting supplies to accommodations, and anything in between, says Pamela Smith, Vice President of Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty.

About Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty:

Family owned and operated for over three decades, Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty offers top-tier real estate services to buyers and sellers across the entire Outer Banks and northeastern North Carolina. Known for their area expertise and commitment to the latest technology, the knowledgeable team at Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has earned a reputation as a premier real estate firm. With the resources and support of a worldwide brand like Coldwell Banker, one of the most influential real estate franchises in the world, it is not surprising that Coldwell Banker Seaside Realty has led the Outer Banks market and has sold the most real estate for 9 consecutive years. **

*As reported by the Outer Banks Association of REALTORS MLS 1.1.22  12.31.22

*As reported by the Outer Banks Association of REALTORS MLS 1.1.14  12.31.22
Egnyte, the secure platform for content collaboration and governance, will host a virtual summit bringing together technology and business experts across the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) sectors to talk about the challenges companies face in todays economy and how technology can make these businesses more resilient in the face of economic uncertainty. The AEC Summit will be held virtually on March 7 from 11am until 3pm EST and attendees will be able to choose one of three tracks to follow throughout the day, including tracks specific to each of the three AEC market sectors.

The AEC Summit is a great opportunity for people working in the AEC sector to come together and learn more about how their peers are tackling the challenges facing everyone in the industry, said Kevin Soohoo, head of AEC Business at Egnyte. We have another fantastic lineup of speakers this year, with 20 of our customers across the architecture, engineering, and construction segments sharing their insights and best practices.

The Summit will have a combination of industry thought leadership sessions and Egnyte Expert sessions. In his keynote address, Steve Jones, senior director of Industry Insights Research at Dodge Construction Network will talk about how firms are deploying cloud solutions to achieve their growth objectives in uncertain times. Sessions featuring industry experts will address a range of topics from how to control content sprawl to how to win government contracts. Expert Q&A sessions will highlight the companys product roadmap and how to best utilize the platform to meet a companys needs, including the new industry-specific project dashboard and PDF markup features.

For more information on the agenda and to register for the summit, click here.

About Egnyte

Egnyte is the secure multi-cloud platform for content security and governance that enables organizations to better protect and collaborate on their most valuable content. Established in 2007, Egnyte has democratized cloud content security for more than 17,000 organizations, helping customers improve data security, maintain compliance, prevent and detect ransomware threats, and boost employee productivity on any app, any cloud, anywhere. For more information, visit http://www.egnyte.com.
It is an absolute honor for Express to be recognized in the first iteration of Entrepreneurs Hall of Fame and #1 in Category Club under such rigorous evaluation. - Express Employment International CEO Bill Stoller

Citing Express Employment Professionals as a brand that has stood the test of time while consistently thriving, the staffing company has been inducted into Entrepreneur Magazines inaugural Franchise 500 Hall of Fame and #1 in Category Club.

Hall of Fame recipients are franchisors that have ranked in every Franchise 500 for a minimum of 25 years, and Express has been included in the list for 35 consecutive years.

For admittance to the #1 in Category Club, companies must have ranked at the top of their industry in the Franchise 500 for the last 10-plus years. Express earned the distinction of being the top in category for the past 12 years.

Express has been on Entrepreneurs Franchise 500 list since 1989 and consisted of 103 units at the time. Today, the staffing giant boasts 860 locations in five countries, including the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, and achieved $4.46 billion in sales in 2022.

It is an absolute honor for Express to be recognized in the first iteration of Entrepreneurs Hall of Fame and #1 in Category Club under such rigorous evaluation, Express Employment International CEO Bill Stoller said. Now in our 40th anniversary year, we are proud of the dedication and hard work of everyone in our network who has created a company that is built to last. The future is bright for Express and the many clients and associates who rely on us to provide superior staffing support.

Entrepreneurs Franchise 500 has been evaluating and ranking franchise opportunities for 44 years. The companys proprietary ranking formula analyzes brands based on more than 150 data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. The ranking grows more competitive each year1,321 companies applied for a chance at a spot in the top 500 in 2023and only 49 franchise brands have managed to rank every year for the last 25 years or more, and thus earn a spot in the 2023 Hall of Fame.

Were honoring these A-list brands who have shown through and through their commitment to growth, to their franchisees, and to their communities, said Entrepreneur Senior Vice President of Franchising Liane Caruso. Ranking in the Franchise 500 is highly competitive, and achieving that distinction year after year is quite an accomplishment. Were thrilled to recognize so many brands who have thrived over the years!

In 2022, Entrepreneur further recognized Express as a Top Global Franchise, a Fastest Growing Franchise Worldwide, a Top Franchise for Veterans and gave the company a Best of the Best ranking.

If you are looking for a franchise opportunity backed by a proven award-winning system, Express Employment Professionals has franchise territories available. For more information visit ExpressFranchising.com.

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If you would like to arrange for an interview with Bill Stoller to discuss this topic, please contact Sheena Hollander, Director of Corporate Communications and PR, at (405) 717-5966.

About Bill Stoller

William H. "Bill" Stoller is chairman and chief executive officer of Express Employment International. Founded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, the international staffing franchisor supports the Express Employment Professionals franchise and related brands. The Express franchise brand is an industry-leading, international staffing company with franchise locations in the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

About Express Employment Professionals

At Express Employment Professionals, were in the business of people. From job seekers to client companies, Express helps people thrive and businesses grow. Our international network of franchises offers localized staffing solutions to the communities they serve across the U.S., Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, employing 579,000 people globally in 2022 and more than 10 million since its inception. For more information, visit ExpressPros.com.
Harris Teeter is thrilled to announce a hiring event scheduled for Tuesday, February 28. Harris Teeter is ready to hire hundreds of new associates in roles across all departments for full-time and part-time employment. Harris Teeter is eager to add qualified associates to its retail operations, which include roles such as produce clerks, bakery clerks, baggers, plus hourly and salaried leadership roles. The event will take place from 11 a.m.  7 p.m. at all Harris Teeter locations.

"We are excited to hire full-time and part-time associates who are seeking a career with a purpose," said Lauren Furr, Director of Learning and Development & Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. "We are eager to welcome new associates to the Harris Teeter family who will help us live our purpose to enrich lives."

At Harris Teeters last two hiring events, the company made offers to more than 950 candidates.

Harris Teeter offers resources, benefits and training to support and develop associates and make their lives easier including:

Health & Wellness



Medical benefits for full-time associates

Free counseling sessions available 24/7 as well as other mental health resources

Life insurance

Financial



401(k) plans with a company matched contribution

Saving plans and flexible paycheck delivery options

Profit sharing twice a year

Continuing Education Assistance



Partnerships with Queens University and the University of Phoenix to help associates further their educational opportunities

Educational leave of absence for associates who wish to continue employment with Harris Teeter while away at college

Vacation, Personal Hours & Associate Perks



Paid vacation days, paid personal days plus paid days for jury duty and bereavement

Flexible scheduling

Associate-only discounts on select grocery items

If interested in joining the Harris Teeter team, visit any Harris Teeter location on Tuesday, Feb. 28 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. An applicant should go to the Customer Service Desk upon arrival and ask to speak to an interviewer about a position with Harris Teeter. The team will interview every candidate and discuss job opportunities in that location.

The company encourages all interested applicants to explore available jobs at http://www.harristeeter.jobs and apply online. This step is preferred but not mandatory for an interview.

About Harris Teeter

Harris Teeter, with headquarters in Matthews, N.C., is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR). The regional grocery chain employs approximately 35,000 associates and operates stores in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, Delaware, Florida and the District of Columbia.
Our country avoided a government coup earlier this year, said Cronin. People had better start educating themselves so that the next time something like this occurs (and there will be a next time), they will be prepared to deal with it.

Political interference, incapable leadership and behind-the-scenes power struggles set the stage for a country ripe for being overtaken by militia groups in a new novel that takes readers through a possible explanation of why they occurred.

It Could Happen Here  A Roadmap to Disaster, by J.F. Cronin, provides readers with a fictional account of a United States president who is strategically guiding upcoming elections. Behind the scenes, the elite connections he holds dear are plotting to keep him in office and shielded from his domino cascade of bad decisions.

Our country avoided a government coup earlier this year, said Cronin. People had better start educating themselves so that the next time something like this occurs (and there will be a next time), they will be prepared to deal with it.

Wilbur Barron, President of the United States, places a call to Eric King, the CEO of an international security company and close advisor, requesting that he attend a meeting. King was often heavily relied on, and he undertook jobs for Barron that were unadvertised, sometimes shady, and he was secretive enough never to let the press know what he was doing. Wolf Stryker, a former King employee, is soon brought back on the payroll to train Americans to implement a coup to protect the money pipeline that funneled assets into private corporations.

J.F. Cronin is a retired marine general who has written extensively about the state of political-military affairs.

Ive worked in Washington and have seen how the system works, said Cronin. Ive watched the erosion of public service and the military values with a swing towards privatization, where ethics and service have given way to a chase for money.

It Could Happen Here  A Roadmap to Disaster

By J.F. Cronin

ISBN: 9781663242273 (softcover); 9781663242280 (electronic)

Available at iUniverse, Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the author

J.F. Cronin holds a B.A. in Finance from the University of Colorado and an M.A. in International Relations from Salve Regina University. This is his tenth work of fiction. He currently resides in a fishing village on the Oregon Coast. To learn more, please visit http://www.iuniverse.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/838018-it-could-happen-here.
NEW ENGLAND -- A plan for a vastly different approach to incarcerating and rehabilitating female inmates in North Dakota is being heard again by state lawmakers, and advocates hope this time it will become reality.

Like one in 2019, the plan calls for female inmates to be moved out of an old school building in the small southwestern farming community of New England.

But unlike the earlier plan to be transferred to a revamped, existing prison facility, the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation hopes to build one in Mandan specifically for women.

What we're trying to do now is to have that facility that's gender driven, and really designed for the needs of the women we have in our system, DOCR Director Dave Krabbenhoft said.

The proposed $161.2 million, 260-bed facility is included in Gov. Doug Burgums budget. It's also included in House Bill 1015, which passed the House in a 60-34 vote and now goes to the Senate.

Rep. Jon Nelson, R-Rugby, said he thinks funding for a new prison has a good chance of passing.

"It's got the support of almost everybody on the committee and to a person, everyone agrees that we need to do something with the women inmates," Nelson said.

The state has never built a correctional facility with women in mind, Krabbenhoft said.

Instead, female inmates have been shoehorned into facilities designed for males or into buildings meant for other use.

Such is the case for the Dakota Womens Correctional and Rehabilitation Center, housed in an old Catholic school in New England, 25 miles south of Dickinson, since 2003.

The Forum recently visited the center, which has a contract with the state and is run by a seven-county consortium, the Southwest Multi-County Correction Center.

A majority of the states female inmates are housed in New England.

Most are mothers, and some come into the facility pregnant, where theres no easy access to an OB-GYN.

We have a moral and legal responsibility as a state to provide health care for anybody who's in our system, and you can't do that in the current location, Burgum said during an editorial board meeting at The Forum last December.

Krabbenhoft said the goal is to build a new, women-centric facility near the Heart River Correctional Center near Mandan.

The facility would support minimum to maximum security custody and allow flexibility to separate women as needed. In the urban setting, women would have greater access to a wider variety of community services and family support.

In 2019, opposition to the move from New England mainly focused on the economic loss to the town of 600.

But its expected the old school could have other uses, including as a residential treatment center for substance abuse, said Rachelle Juntunen, the warden at Dakota Womens.

We have the addiction counselors, were able to provide the services, Juntunen said.

'Committed to the mission'

The number of incarcerated women in North Dakota has risen steadily over the 20 years the facility in New England has been open.

We weren't so crammed. We were able to space people out a little bit better, Juntunen said of the earlier years.

There were a total of 129 female inmates in 2003, compared with 286 in 2021.

At the close of 2022, there were 233 women in custody in North Dakota; 138 at Dakota Womens, 49 at Heart River and 46 at transitional facilities or county jails.

The New England facility is contracted for 55 full-time staff members who drive in from all over southwestern North Dakota. Only a handful live in or just outside of New England, Juntenen said.

Inmates live in dorm-style rooms, with as many as 10 beds to a room, and they use shared restroom and shower facilities. They have access to 24-hour nursing care and to addiction counselors.

Nearly 85% of the women have a substance abuse diagnosis and more than 25% have serious mental health issues; nearly 60% have a dual diagnosis, according to DOCR.

The prevalence of mental illness in the facility population has grown, Juntunen said.

Some of the women are in and out of the State Hospital in Jamestown and land back at Dakota Womens, where theyre not equipped to deal with serious mental illness.

Sometimes, those women are put into the special management unit, or cells meant for disciplinary segregation, not for someone suffering from a mental health episode.

Dakota Womens offers a work-release program for minimum-security residents at a nearby manufacturing company, while others work onsite at Prairie Industries, sewing T-shirts and other items.

Krabbenhoft acknowledges there are more vocational and educational opportunities for men in the system than women.

Burgum said the state is at risk for legal action, considering whats offered at the new penitentiary for men in Bismarck and whats available for women in New England.

The state had to defend itself in a class-action lawsuit in 2003 claiming unequal treatment of women inmates, until the legal action was dismissed six years later.

Krabbenhoft is quick to assert any shortcomings are tied to the location and building limitations only, not to the people who work there.

They're all committed to the mission. They all want to see people get better, he said.

A source of pride

While there are multiple reasons to move female inmates out of New England, some people in town still dont want to see them go, even if another use is found for the building.

Mayor Lyle Kovar said the womens prison is the towns largest water, sewer and garbage customer.

If you take into consideration the people that work there, they're also buying stuff in town, paying taxes and everything else. Theyre both very instrumental in keeping the town going, Kovar said.

He's wary about the price tag of a new women's prison.

"I realize our state has money right now, but you know, if we don't need to spend it on something like that, why?" he wondered.

Chris Fitterer, a New England city councilman, has worked at his family business, Fitterer Oil, since he was 16. Generations of the family attended classes down the street in the old St. Marys school.

He doesnt anticipate much of an economic impact on the business if inmates are moved out, especially if the building takes on another purpose.

He said its more a matter of pride.

Just like anything in a small community this size, its people coming in and out your door, and that's what it's about, he said.

Krabbenhoft said hes committed to seeing that the facility in New England and the people who work there remain relevant to DOCR.

Juntunen has done a good job assembling staff there, he said, and she was included in concept work with the architectural firm hired to design the new women's facility.

The need is pressing to turn the tide on the trend of more women being incarcerated in North Dakota.

Krabbenhoft said there are approximately 400 children who are offspring of the women currently in DOCR facilities, and most were primary caregivers to those children before being incarcerated.

Burgum said the No. 1 predictor of whether a person will end up in prison is whether their parents have been there.

The new womens facility would offer inmates a better chance at rehabilitation and better opportunities to reconnect with their children before they get out.

What if the plan doesnt go forward?

Its going to be frustrating, because we're just kicking the can down the road, Krabbenhoft said.
Since joining forces with Axxess, we have jointly delivered meaningful and quantifiable results to providers, helping them better serve patients and share their value stories. - Annie Erstling, COO, Forcura

Forcura, a healthcare workflow management company, and Axxess, the leading technology innovator for healthcare at home, today announced they have signed a joint agreement with Texas-based home health care agency JonSan. Through the agreement, JonSan will leverage the full suite of technology from both companies to enhance care coordination across its home health and personal care service lines.

As post-acute and ongoing care continues to increasingly take place in the home, the need to maximize interoperability across a variety of care settings is paramount, said Sandra Crady, owner and administrator of JonSan. Forcura and Axxess have both created platforms that enable smoother care transitions and a stronger patient experience. In addition to their technology, their creative and collaborative relationship will help advance and elevate us in the marketplace.

Both Forcura and Axxess technology platforms are designed to improve a providers operational efficiencies and patient experience, ultimately helping transform the delivery of care in the home. For example, clients of both companies can process referrals and onboard patients up to 50% faster through workflow and collaboration tools that enable providers to electronically sign plans of care and update patient charts in real time.

Since joining forces with Axxess, we have jointly delivered meaningful and quantifiable results to providers, helping them better serve patients and share their value stories, said Annie Erstling, chief operating officer of Forcura. JonSan is the next chapter of that partnership. Were honored to have earned their trust as we set out to again demonstrate the impact we make on both the home health and personal care sectors.

Forcura and Axxess first formed their partnership in 2021. Since then, they have helped provider organizations across post-acute care better use technology, resulting in safer and smoother patient care coordination and transitions, especially from acute-care settings.

Were driven to help providers do more with less in an ever-evolving post-acute landscape, said Tim Ingram, executive vice president of interoperability at Axxess. Through our integration with Forcura, well help JonSan provide strong patient care and optimize revenue cycles, while lowering expenses. Were excited to get started.

For more information about the Forcura and Axxess partnership, visit https://www.forcura.com/axxess-partnership.

About Forcura

Forcura, a healthcare workflow management company headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, facilitates continuity of care and improves business performance for providers via its automated workflow, collaboration and analytics SaaS solutions. The company is deeply committed to empowering better patient care and elevating the role of post-acute in the broader healthcare continuum. The company is a KLAS reviewed technology vendor, is a certified Great Place to Work employer, and has ranked for the sixth consecutive year on the Inc. 5000. For more information visit forcura.com, call 800-378-0596 or follow Forcura on LinkedIn.

About Axxess

Axxess is the leading technology innovator for healthcare at home, focused on solving the most complex industry challenges. Trusted by more than 9,000 organizations that serve more than 3 million patients worldwide, Axxess offers a complete suite of easy-to-use software solutions that empower home health, home care, hospice, and palliative providers to make healthcare in the home human again. The company's collaborative culture focused on innovation and excellence is recognized nationally as a Best Place to Work.

About JonSan

JonSan Home Health Inc., began in June 2016 and currently provides adult home health care to Bexar County and 13 surrounding counties. We are currently expanding North along the IH35 corridor to Waco, TX which will add an additional 13 counties to the service area. We provide skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, home health aide services, provider services, and respite care (both skilled and non-skilled). We are licensed with the state of Texas, certified with ACHC for home health and home infusion therapy. We take a mix of payer sources including Medicare, private insurances, and workers comp.
Dave Marcolla, a veteran Realtor in the Newtown area with more than 20 years of sales, marketing and financial services experience, announces today the opening of his new real estate brokerage, Marcolla Realty at 444 South State Street.

In real estate and most other businesses, outstanding customer service is essential. Ive always believed my clients should not only expect better  they should expect, and get, the best when it comes to advising them on one of their most substantial and personal assets: their home, said Dave Marcolla, owner and broker of Marcolla Realty. Real estate transactions can be stressful. My role as a real estate professional is to remove the headaches and stress of the real estate process for my clients, many of whom are busy professionals who cant afford to be pulled away from managing their own businesses to manage the business of a home sale or purchase. That sensibility and attention to detail is what sets Marcolla Realty apart from others as we set out to create fans, not just clients.

As a marketing professional for Fortune 50 corporations that included AT&T and Comcast, Marcolla saw firsthand the importance and impact of not just good customer service, but best-in-class customer service. Removing the guesswork for senior leadership as well as clients and vendors in the corporate world is another lesson that has contributed to Marcollas success in his second act as a Realtor. During his first year in real estate, Marcolla generated nearly $3 million in sales. At the close of 2022, Marcolla and the real estate group he led closed $78 million in transactions for properties in and around the Newtown, Bucks County area.

He has lived in  and restored  homes in Bucks County, PA, and Central New Jersey for more than 20 years. Marcolla is active in the local community as well, serving as chairman of the Newtown Business Association and chairman of the Board at the Cancer Support Community Greater Philadelphia. He also serves on the Bucks County Association of Realtors Board nominations committee. He scored the highest priced home sale of the year at Keller Williams Newtown in 2021 and, the following year he and his team were honored as the Newtown Business Associations (NBA) Business of the Year.

Marcolla earned his bachelors in business administration and marketing from Bloomsburg University and an MBA from La Salle University. He is a graduate of the Princeton School of Real Estate and earned a certificate in strategic marketing from The Wharton School.

Joining Marcolla to launch his brokerage are Realtors Melissa Watson and Peter Vogel. The brokerage is also currently hiring for additional sales roles. An official grand opening of the new office is currently planned for Spring 2023.

About Marcolla Realty

Marcolla Realty offers a high touch, best-in-class and experienced advisory approach to the buying and selling of distinctive residential properties in Bucks and Mercer counties. Built on principles refined by Founder Dave Marcolla over nearly two decades in marketing with Fortune 50 firms, Marcolla Realty is committed to providing an exceptional level of attention to detail and first-class, concierge-level service on every transaction. To learn more, visit http://www.marcollarealty.com.
Loffler makes 2023 CRN MSP 500 Pioneer 250 List. "I am extremely proud of the world-class teams we've built and the strong value they provide our clients in the managed services marketplace. We look forward to continuing to help organizations succeed by addressing their unique technology needs." James Loffler, President of Loffler Companies

Loffler Companies has been named to the 2023 Managed Service Provider (MSP) 500 list in the Pioneer 250 category by CRN, a brand of The Channel Company. CRNs annual MSP 500 list identifies the industry-leading service providers in North America who are driving a new wave of growth and innovation for the channel through forward-thinking approaches to managed services, helping end users increase efficiency and simplify IT solutions, while maximizing their return on investment.

Managed service providers are integral to the success of businesses everywhere. They empower companies to implement and operate complex technologies while staying within their budgets and keep a focus on their core business. CRNs MSP 500 list identifies the most groundbreaking managed service organizations, with advanced solutions that have endless potential for growth. The MSP Pioneer 250 recognizes companies with business models weighted toward managed services and largely focused on the SMB market.

Along with IT Managed Services, Lofflers IT Consulting offerings continue to deliver as a differentiator in the managed service space, as demand for IT strategy consulting continues to rise for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

We are honored to be named to the CRN MSP 500, Pioneer 250 Category, said James Loffler, President of Loffler Companies. I am extremely proud of the world-class teams weve built and the strong value they provide to our clients in the managed services marketplace. We look forward to continuing to help organizations succeed by addressing their unique technology needs.

Loffler Companies provides the most comprehensive business technology solutions in the country, with experts who bring it all together to build secure, optimized technology environments. Lofflers offerings include IT managed and security services, business security systems, disaster recovery/business continuity, multifunctional copiers and printers, print management services, intelligent automation, professional IT services/consulting, unified communications and on-site management of print and mail centers.

As one of the top-selling Canon and Konica Minolta dealers in the U.S., Loffler Companies also works with leading partners such as Nutanix, Arctic Wolf, Microsoft, Mitel and 8x8 as well as Xerox, HP, Lexmark and FP Mailing Solutions. Lofflers specialized trainers, flexible billing and financing options at all price levels and award-winning service and support help Lofflers clients succeed.

Founded by Jim Loffler in 1986, and now led by James Loffler, Loffler Companies is nationally recognized as a leader in business technology and managed services. Loffler is among the top office solutions dealers in the US for service and support, with more than 500 employees working every day to exceed the expectations of their clients, partners and the community. For more information about Loffler Companies, call 952-925-6800 or email information@loffler.com or visit us online at http://www.loffler.com.
Mindy truly embodies the spirit of the Holman Way. She is the essence of driving whats right and continues to be the guiding light that inspires our entire organization on a daily basis." - Carl Ortell, Chief Executive Officer, Holman.

Holman, a global automotive services organization, is delighted to announce that Mindy Holman recently received the Automotive Dealer Lifetime Achievement award during the 16th annual Boca Raton Concours dElegance, the premier celebration of automotive history. Each year, the events Chairs honor a collection of leaders from across the industry for their commitment and outstanding contributions to the automotive world and automotive business endeavors.

On Saturday, February 25, Mindy Holman, Holmans Chair of the Board, accepted her award during a ceremony which also honored industry icons Mary Barra, who received the Automotive Manufacturing Lifetime Achievement award, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., who received the Automotive Racing Lifetime Achievement award.

Its difficult to express how honored I am to be recognized alongside two legends of our industry, said Mindy Holman. While Im humbled to receive this award, it is certainly a testament to the legacy of my grandfather and father who established the foundation upon which our remarkable organization is built. Id also like to express my gratitude to my extended Holman family of employees. Its your efforts and unwavering commitment to our values and principles that continue to drive whats right every day for our organization, our customers, and our communities.

The renowned Boca Raton Concours dElegance features an exciting weekend of festivities, celebrities, and legendary automobiles. The three-day event culminates with one of the worlds most prestigious displays of 200-plus collector cars and motorcycles, including several one-of-a-kind masterpieces such as the 1937 Cord 812 Phaeton Convertible once owned by Amelia Earhart.

On behalf of our entire organization, Id like to congratulate Mindy on this well-deserved honor. We could not be prouder of all that shes accomplished throughout her illustrious career, said Carl Ortell, Chief Executive Officer, Holman. Whether shes going above and beyond for a customer, volunteering her time with a charitable organization, or simply supporting a friend or colleague, Mindy truly embodies the spirit of the Holman Way. She is the essence of driving whats right and continues to be the guiding light that inspires our entire organization on a daily basis.

The Boca Raton Concours dElegance is the fastest growing Concours in the nation and the worlds largest Concours owned by a charity, fully benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward Country, which serves thousands of at-risk youth each year. The annual event has raised more than $10 million for the charity during its 16-year history.

For additional information about the Automotive Lifetime Achievement Awards and the Boca Raton Concours dElegance, visit BocaRatonConcours.com. To learn more about Holmans unique range of automotive-centric services, please visit Holman.com.

About Holman

Holman is a global automotive leader that serves both commercial and consumer clients The Holman Way by always doing the right thing for our people, our customers, and the community since 1924. The Holman story began nearly a century ago as a single Ford dealership in New Jersey. Today, Holman, headquartered in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is one of the largest family-owned automotive service organizations in North America with more than 6,500 employees across North America, the UK, and Germany.

Holman delivers a unique range of automotive-centric services including industry-leading fleet management and leasing; vehicle fabrication and upfitting; component manufacturing and productivity solutions; powertrain distribution and logistics services; commercial and personal insurance and risk management; and retail automotive sales as one of the largest privately owned dealership groups in the United States. Guided by its deeply rooted core values and principles, Holman is continuously Driving Whats Right. For additional information, please visit Holman.com and connect with Holman on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

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More than 9,600 vulnerable people in Peru received nutritional support thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Feed My Starving Children, a nonprofit Christian organization committed to feeding Gods children hungry in body and spirit.

A shipment of rice-meals was provided to the Don Bosco Foundation in 2022 and distributed throughout the year to 10 civic and religious programs serving people who are sick and elderly, at-risk youth, and other marginalized populations.

Organizations that received the donation include the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Forsaken Elderly in Brena that serves a population of 500 poor elderly people. The Congregation of the Sisters of Charity is a home for 100 youth with terminal cancer and other serious diseases who are receiving treatment.

The Brother Thomas Helm Center is a day shelter for youth who are in school. There are approximately 60 boys who participate. The Civic Action with the Joint Command of the Armed Forced provides basic needs for 4,550 people. Hogar San Camilo provides support to people with HIV. It serves approximately 280 people.

The rice-meal shipment also helped volunteers who distributed the meals. Sabina, age 26 and from Lima, delivered meals to the most poverty-stricken and dangerous area of Callao, the port of Lima. Within Callao is the Los Barracones neighborhood, which is known for gang violence.

When Sabina arrived to distribute the donations of fortified rice packages, she noticed the lack of police presence in the community and anticipated a hostile atmosphere while distributing food to the households.

However, Sabina was surprised to see how welcoming and warm the beneficiaries and their relatives were when dropping off the meals. She said, Going door to door, offering rice, being welcomed in the homes of the beneficiaries and exchanging some kind words was an experience of regaining hope.

The volunteers were grateful for this experience and expressed their gratitude to the Salesians for giving them an opportunity to be active members in their local communities.

Peru faces high levels of income inequality and has more than a quarter of its population living in poverty, according to the World Bank. Poverty levels are significantly higher in rural areas but urban areas struggle most with inequality, most notably metropolitan Lima. Poverty in the country is made worse by a shortage of productive farmland and a lack of job skills among women entering the workforce, as well as a lack of adequate housing, nutrition, and education.

###

About Salesian Missions USA

Salesian Missions is headquartered in New Rochelle, NY, and is part of the Don Bosco Networka worldwide federation of Salesian NGOs. The mission of the U.S.-based nonprofit Catholic organization is to raise funds for international programs that serve youth and families in poor communities around the globe. The Salesian missionaries are made up of priests, brothers and sisters, as well as laypeopleall dedicated to caring for poor children throughout the world in more than 130 countries and helping young people become self-sufficient by learning a trade that will help them gain employment. To date, more than 3 million youth have received services funded by Salesian Missions. These services and programs are provided to children regardless of race or religion. For more information, go to SalesianMissions.org.

Contact:

Laura Perillo

media@salesianmissions.org

908-406-3413 (text messages OK)

Twitter: @MissionNewswire

Newswire: MissionNewswire.org

Press room: SalesianMissions.org/press
I was deeply inspired once I had truly encountered the Holy Spirit as a real person and to actually know without a doubt that God is Real.

Author CHAPPY courageously shares his abuse-filled journey and an eventual life-changing encounter with the Holy Spirit in God Spoke and I Trembled: Warning: Testimonies Within Might Scare You ($13.49, paperback, 9781662868566; $5.99, e-book, 9781662868573).

CHAPPYs childhood was beyond challenging and may be relatable among some readers. Raised without a father, he was an abused child faced with attention deficit disorder and subjected to physical beating by those who was supposed to protect him. Targeted by bullies at school and later in life forced to move where he would be challenged to learn a new language while still being afflicted with learning disabilities. He was exposed to hard drugs and dangerous streets that led to poor choices in friends and the gamble of going to prison.

After many years of intolerable decisions, CHAPPY considered the worthiness of his life. At that very moment, he encountered a supernatural visit that turned his life around. With lifechanging proof of Gods existence, CHAPPY is here sharing his powerful story with readers.

When asked what inspired the author to write this book, CHAPPY said,  I was deeply inspired once I had truly encountered the Holy Spirit as a real person and to actually know without a doubt that God is Real.

Author CHAPPY was born in New Jersey and raised in Brooklyn under government assistance and the strictest of mothers. Challenged with Attention Deficit Disorder and no father in the picture by the age of three years old, he struggled in school, was bullied and abused by his mother. At age 12, CHAPPY still couldnt read, write or spell his name. An angry teenager, his mother moved them to a new land with a new language. Drugs soon became his reality. CHAPPY later escaped and returned to New Jersey in search of a new life. Jumping from one job to another, the drugs were still a factor to numb him. He was suicidal and tired of living. Miraculously, at the age of 24 years old, God placed a messenger in CHAPPYs life that would be lifechanging. His heart was the only thing he had to offer.

With a desire to help others, CHAPPY went on to choose a career in law enforcement. In his spare time, he enjoys martial arts, bodybuilding, photography and working with electronics; setting up computers and home theaters.

Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the worlds largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. God Spoke and I Trembled: Warning: Testimonies Within Might Scare You is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.
Shaw-Ross International Importers, one of the nation's leading importers in the beverage alcohol industry, announces the addition of five team members as well as three internal promotions, as a result of the companys rapid growth. Shaw-Ross currently boasts a portfolio of 39 domestic and international suppliers in both wine and spirits brands across the United States.

Scott Jove, who was appointed as Shaw Rosss President in January 2023, is embracing a strategic national expansion with a focus on premiumization. As Shaw-Ross continues to add several upscale quality suppliers to the portfolio, Scott is proud to announce the addition of five new team members across the country to support the mission.



Jason Fabrizio, General Manager, California and Hawaii - Jason has over 26 years of industry experience having worked for Southern Glazers, Constellation, Palm Bay, Mionetto and most recently, Terlato Wines. In his new role, Jason will be accountable for driving sales and developing strategic business relationships with the Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits Distributor partners and the trade sector.

Joe Schlegel, Division Manager, Southern California and Hawaii - Joe brings over 17 years of industry experience having worked for SGWS, Bev-Mo, The Henry Wine Group and, most recently, Terlato Wines. In his new role, Joe will be accountable for driving sales and developing strategic business relationships with the Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits Distributor partners, as well as the trade sector.

Lindy Wyss, Mid-West Regional Manager - Lindy Wyss has been in the wine and spirits industry for 18 years and is a certified WSET level 3 sake instructor, as well as a sake specialist where she held that role at SGWS IL. Most recently she was a regional sales manager and director of Asian spirits at Davos Brands. In her role Lindys initial focus will be Illinois and Wisconsin.

Michelle Andreen, Southeast Regional Manager, Georgia, Alabama, N&S Carolina - Michelle has over 20 years of industry experience. Prior to joining Shaw-Ross Michelle held the position of District Manager at Deutsch Family Vineyards. Michelle is a Certified Specialist of Wine and Spirits.

Joseph Manfredo, Metro New York Sales Manager - Joseph has over 18 years experience in the Wine and Spirits industry, and has held positions with Southern Glazer Wine and Spirits, Stoli Group USA and most recently as a NY State Manager for WhistlePig Whiskey. Josephs experience and relationships with both on and off premise sales and management, will be a key component to the success and growth of the impressive Shaw-Ross portfolio in Metro NY.

Shaw-Ross relies on having the right people on the ground to supplement our distributors selling efforts and tell our suppliers stories, Jove says. These exciting recent additions give our team the ability to expand conscientiously in key U.S. markets while leveraging nearly a century of combined industry experience to further solidify our expertise in wine and spirits.

As Shaw-Ross continues to expand, Managing Director Bruce Hunter, alongside Scott Jove, are thrilled to acknowledge three employees for their hard work and dedication.



Tom OHara to Senior Vice President, Eastern Region - Tom joined Shaw-Ross in 2017, the culmination of a 30-year beverage alcohol career, following posts in Banfi Vintners and Excelsior Wines. In his six years with Shaw Ross, Tom has held the titles of Vice President, Northeast Region, and Vice President Commercial Strategy for the US market.

Jim Keller to Vice President of the South Central Division from Manager - Jim boasts over 40 years of industry experience, having held distributor roles in sales and marketing with Lone Star Co, Glazers and American Beverage. Jim started his supplier role with metro sales and marketing before starting a 20 year career with Shaw-Ross and Lapham Imports, as the Texas Regional Manager.

Tim Steele to Texas Area Manager - Tim has over 20 years of experience working in the wine and spirits industry. As a certified sommelier and WSET III Advanced, he began his career in restaurants and ran several beverage programs before taking a key accounts and wine specialist role at Southern Glazer's. Tim joined Shaw-Ross in 2018, as assistant state manager.

We wouldnt be one of the best importers in the business if it werent for our driven team who goes the extra mile for our suppliers, commented Hunter. Tom, Jim and Tim reflect our core values and dedication to this business, and we wouldnt be in expansion mode without them. Congratulations on this well deserved promotion!

About Shaw-Ross International Importers

Founded in 1968 as a boutique wine and spirit importer representing a handful of brands, Shaw-Ross is one of the nations leading importers representing over thirty suppliers from around the world whose brands enjoy full national distribution through a network of outstanding wholesalers.
Terra Dotta As we continue to get out from under Covids shadow, study abroad is experiencing a resurgence as college students want to travel. --Anthony Rotoli, CEO of Terra Dotta

In its second annual Study Abroad Survey: The Voice of the Students, Terra Dotta, a leading global engagement education technology provider, today revealed that nearly 3 out of 4 of the 200+ U.S. college students surveyed, and 80% of the college freshmen, expressed interest in study abroad citing personal growth and an interest in travel as the primary reasons. More than 60% of the students are looking at a traditional semester abroad in Spring 2024 with Western Europe being a popular destination among 70% of the interested students.

As we continue to get out from under Covids shadow, study abroad is experiencing a resurgence as college students want to travel, said Anthony Rotoli, CEO of Terra Dotta. Our survey findings echo a 40% increase in the number of Study Abroad travelers on the Terra Dotta platform in 2022. Yet the survey also reveals a real need for more financial support and program education to impart the long-term career readiness value for potential student travelers.

Financial Concerns an Obstacle to Study Abroad Growth

The biggest obstacle to studying abroad, as reported by students themselves, is cost. In fact, when students who are interested were asked what would prevent them from studying abroad, 84% said cost/finances. And more than half of students (47%) said the No. 1 thing their institutions could do to make study abroad programs more accessible is help them learn about financial aid. Similarly, the students not planning to study abroad also cited cost as the No. 1 barrier with 37% saying it costs too much money or they have financial concerns.

More Study Abroad Program Information Needed

In addition to financial aid, more program education can also help sway the nearly 30% of students surveyed who said I dont know anything about [study abroad] or I have not heard of it. While career readiness might be a popular by-product of study abroad - and the number one reason for study abroad in 2022 - its use as a motivator may be overstated among younger students. Only 7% of respondents selected preparation for a global workforce as their top reason for their interest in study abroad - illustrating the need for program education and its long term value beyond personal growth and a desire to travel. School websites are cited by 75% of the interested students as the No. 1 way for their institution to promote information about study abroad programs, ideas, and availability.

While international educators have been trying to shed the label of being the travel department and leaning into how important cross-cultural exchange is for career readiness, there is an opportunity to do more to engage students and parents - especially as many students are eager to travel given the social and mobility impacts of the pandemic, added Rotoli.

Study Abroad on High School Students Radar

The survey also addressed the impact of study abroad offerings on students college selection decisions. For example, more than half of the students interested in study abroad (57%) said an institutions study abroad programs and/or the schools support of study abroad impacted their college selection decision. In fact, nearly half (45%) of the students report becoming interested in study abroad in high school.

Increasing Accessibility through Study Away & Virtual Programming

And while virtual global programming matured during the pandemic out of necessity and offers greater accessibility, students are still enthusiastic about it - 44% of those interested in study abroad say they are very interested in a virtual program and 47% say theyd need more information. Study away - which offers domestic cultural travel opportunities - also has student buy-in with 43% of the students saying Absolutely they would be interested. Both virtual programming and study away can help address study abroad accessibility whereby financial, physical, mental health and other obstacles can limit student participation rates.

Study Methodology

Findings from Terra Dottas second annual Study Abroad: Voice of the Student Survey were derived from an online panel conducted by Thrive Analytics. Data was gathered in January 2023 from 223 U.S. college students enrolled in a public or private higher ed institution.

To learn more and access the full report, visit https://www.terradotta.com/ebook-voice-of-students-2023.html.

About Terra Dotta

Terra Dotta is the trusted leader in global engagement solutions for higher education. Over 700 universities and colleges use Terra Dottas global engagement platform to facilitate cross-cultural experiences for students, faculty and staff in more than 85 countries worldwide. The companys solutions help customers deliver end-to-end, accessible global engagement experiences that meet comprehensive safety and compliance requirements  from managing domestic and international travel to international student programs, virtual and global experiences and beyond. Terra Dotta is based in Chapel Hill, N.C. and can be found at http://www.terradotta.com.

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Trepp, a leading provider of data, insights, and technology solutions to the structured finance, commercial real estate, and banking markets, announced the launch of the Trepp Education Segment Scholarship Program, an initiative created to support students pursuing degrees and careers in the commercial real estate finance industry.

The scholarship is the latest Trepp initiative built to further accelerate the futures of students passionate about commercial real estate and commercial real estate finance. Trepp is now accepting applications for the scholarship, which is open through April 7th. Scholarship(s) will be awarded for tuition based on merit, up to $10,000 USD. To learn more about the scholarship opportunity, click here: https://www.trepp.com/scholarship2023

The eligibility criteria for students to submit applications is as follows:



Must have a minimum 3.4 GPA (4.0 scale)

Must be a full-time citizen of the United States

Must be a full-time junior, senior, or graduate student (2023-2024 academic year)

Students enrolled in a part-time master's program must be employed full-time in a qualified field of CRE (QFCRE) listed on the application form to be eligible

Must be enrolled at an accredited college or university

Must intend to pursue a career in commercial real estate or CRE Finance, with a focus on studying in qualified fields

Trepps Education Segment Scholarship is an added program in Trepps collection of initiatives to support college students pursuing a career in CRE finance. This scholarship will help young scholars navigate and excel in their future commercial real estate endeavors, said Trepps Director of Academic and Industry Relations, Erin Timko.

Applicants are required to complete an application form, submit a current resume, provide two letters of recommendation, and share a personal statement as part of the submission.

Applications will be evaluated by Trepps Education Segment Steering Committee. Finalists will be required to attend a virtual interview before being selected. For a deeper dive of the scholarship requirements, see the guidelines here: https://www.trepp.com/scholarship2023

Winner(s) will be announced on May 18th, 2023.

Trepp's educational initiatives help bridge the gap between academia and industry. For additional information on Trepp's education initiatives and the education scholarship, please contact at 212-754-1010 or learn@trepp.com.

About Trepp

Trepp, founded in 1979, is the leading provider of data, insights, and technology solutions to the structured finance, commercial real estate, and banking markets. Trepp provides primary and secondary market participants with the solutions and analytics they need to increase operational efficiencies, information transparency, and investment performance. From its offices in New York, San Francisco, and London, Trepp serves its clients with products and services to support trading, research, risk management, surveillance, and portfolio management. Trepp subsidiary, Commercial Real Estate Direct, is a daily news source covering the commercial real estate capital markets. Trepp is owned by the Daily Mail and General Trust (DMGT).
The event that has raised millions of dollars to support children with cerebral palsy or other permanent disabilities is in its 27th year. Beginning this year the event also will support Sanford Children's Hospital and clinics across the Bismarck region, as well as programs such as Child Life, which helps children and their families cope with hospitalization.
Our summer core courses help students recover credits they need to graduate, and many students also enroll in our unique summer electives to discover a subject that interests and prepare for their next academic year," said President & CEO of VHS Learning, Carol DeFuria.

VHS Learning has opened registration for its summer 2023 courses and introduced more flexible options to fit students schedules. The traditional summer program begins June 14 and offers 25 online high school courses for credit recovery and enrichment that are eight weeks or four weeks long. Eight-week courses begin on June 14. Four-week courses are offered in two sessions beginning June 14 and July 17, respectively. New this year are flexibly paced and credit recovery courses that offer rolling admission and will open for registration in May.

VHS Learning courses are instructor-led and include NCAA-approved options. The summer program offers core math, science, social science, history, and English courses as well as a variety of electives for enrichment such as Chinese language and culture, cryptography, personal finance, and personal fitness. Students in grades 9-12 can enroll in the summer courses.

The 2022 Nations Report Card showed an increased need to bolster student learning, and VHS Learnings summer courses are an excellent option for academic recovery, said President & CEO of VHS Learning, Carol DeFuria. Our summer core courses help students recover credits they need to graduate, and many students also enroll in our unique summer electives to discover a subject that interests and prepare for their next academic year.

For more than 27 years, VHS Learning has earned a reputation for educational quality, providing a best-in-class professional development program for the certified teachers who provide summer course instruction. All VHS Learning teachers complete graduate-level Online Teaching Methodologies (OTM) training to learn best practices for online teaching and learning, and 81% of VHS Learning teachers possess a masters degree or higher.

VHS Learning course design and delivery standards were the model used by the National Education Association when they created the first standards for online learning. In 2019, in collaboration with the international nonprofit Quality Matters, VHS Learning helped update the National Standards for Quality (NSQ) in three areas: Online Courses, Online Teaching, and Online Programs.

We are dedicated to supporting students and educators with high-quality high school courses and exceptional professional development, DeFuria continued. Were looking forward to once again providing students everywhere with the flexible instruction and support they need to stay on track and get ahead.

Additional information and registration for VHS Learning summer courses is available at https://www.vhslearning.org/educators/what-vhs-offers/summer-school

About VHS Learning

VHS Learning is a nonprofit organization with over 27 years of experience providing world-class online programs to students and schools everywhere. More than 600 schools around the world take advantage of VHS Learnings 300+ online high school courses -- including 29 AP courses, credit recovery, and enrichment courses -- to expand their programs of study. VHS Learning is accredited by Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS), Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC), and Cognia. Courses are approved for initial eligibility by NCAA. For more information about VHS Learning please visit https://www.vhslearning.org/ and follow on Twitter at @VHSLearning.

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More than 2,300 nominations from organizations of all sizes, in virtually every industry were considered in this years People's Choice Stevie Awards competition. Stevie Awards People's Choice for Favorite Customer Service voting was conducted from January 25 through February 17, with the highest number of votes deciding the winners in 12 industry categories. More than 31,000 votes were cast this year.

Winners of the 2023 People's Choice Stevie Awards for Favorite Customer Service, a worldwide public vote, were announced today. Voting was conducted from January 25 through February 17, with the highest number of votes deciding the winners in 12 industry categories. More than 31,000 votes were cast this year.

All organizations honored in the Customer Service Department of the Year categories of this years Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service were eligible to be included in voting for the peoples choice awards. The Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, now in their 17th year, are the worlds top honors for customer service, contact center, business development, and sales professionals.

More than 2,300 nominations from organizations of all sizes, in virtually every industry were considered in this years competition. Finalists were determined by the average scores of more than 170 professionals worldwide in seven specialized judging committees and were announced last month.

This years Peoples Choice winners, who will each receive the coveted crystal Peoples Choice Stevie Award, are:

Airlines, Distribution & Transportation: DHL Express PERU SAC

All Other Industries: Monat Global Corp

Computer Hardware & Services: Linode

Consumer Products & Services: Element Electronics

Financial Services  Up to 100 Employees: Optum Financial

Financial Services  100 or More Employees: Care.com

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: TSI Healthcare

Public Services & Education: Curriculum Associates

Software  Up to 100 Employees: Nerdio

Software  100 or More Employees: OneCause

Telecommunications: TELUS Smart Security & Automation

Nicknamed the Stevie from the Greek word crowned, Stevie Award winners will be celebrated at an awards ceremony on Friday, March 3 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tickets for the event are now on sale. More than 400 Stevie Award winners and their guests from around the world are expected to attend.

About the Stevie Awards

Stevie Awards are conferred in eight programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.

Sponsors and supporters of the 17th annual Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service include Sales Partnerships, Inc., Support Services Global, and ValueSelling Associates, Inc.


For Jill Foertsch, administrator at St. Gerards Community of Care, which operates a 33-bed long-term care facility and an 11-bed independent living unit in Hankinson, the costs just keep piling up.

Before the pandemic, Foertsch rarely contracted traveling registered nurses, licensed practical nurses or certified nursing assistants. Significant drops in staffing during the outbreak made it a necessity.

A CNA position that paid $33 an hour before the pandemic has escalated to as much as $85, according to Foertsch. An LPN that once started at $44 runs about the same, with the highest at $90 with $120 for overtime. An RN was usually $55, but has now gone up to around $130.

In fiscal year 2021 St. Gerards had to contract out for 7,089 hours, amounting to over $300,000, or around the equivalent of seven full-time workers the facility could not find, Foertsch said. Fiscal year 2022, ending last June, essentially saw a doubling of that, with 14,163 hours of contracted labor at a cost of over $827,000. The last six months show the same picture, she added.

We have no plans of closing at this time, but I know we cant sustain paying money like that for our workforce, Foertsch said. I dont think theres any nursing home that can do that.

Under pressure

An average of three long-term care facilities in North Dakota have closed or downsized annually since 2020, and that trend appears set to continue unless the state can quickly address the lack of nurses, nursing assistants and the expense of contracting travel nurses, those in the field say.

Ninety percent of long-term care facilities in the state must rely on contract nursing staff to meet their needs, according to data provided by the North Dakota Long Term Care Association. Expensive travel nurses eat up budgets that could be spent on facility upgrades, pay and bonuses for permanent staff, and other policies to attract full-time workers.

The 192 long-term care facilities in North Dakota -- which includes assisted living, basic care and nursing homes -- lost around 15 percent of their staff during the pandemic and there are no signs of workers returning soon.

Registered nurse turnover stands at 43% and certified nursing assistant turnover at 66%. At least 89% of facilities have reported shortages of staff, and 57% are operating at a loss, according to NDLTCA data.

Nationally, staffing at long-term care facilities dropped by 410,000 between 2020 and 2021 and only began rebounding last year with around 103,000 joining or reentering the full-time workforce, according to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Without permanent staff, more facilities will close, hitting rural areas of North Dakota the hardest. Closures lead to longer travel times for family and friends to see their loved ones in larger cities. The loss of facilities and jobs adds to the continued hollowing out of rural communities as knock on effects hit other businesses ranging from local pharmacies to grocery stores.

Its just a big impact on your community, let alone that you dont have that level of care anymore locally, NDLTCA President Shelly Peterson said in an interview at the Capitol.

The challenge of staffing long-term care facilities and providing services in rural areas continues to grow as more baby boomers retire.

In 2029 is when we predict that its really going to be hitting hard for our baby boom population and those most likely to need care, Peterson said. The issue will be can we staff to what they need in 2029 and how many will have closed by 2029, because they cant withstand the financial pressure they are on now. Thats only six years away.

Those pressures have already led administrators at Heart of America Medical Center in Rugby to plan on reducing their 33-bed skilled nursing unit down to 18 and moving that to inside the hospital. The move allows the unit to share staff in the hospital instead of maintaining a separate dedicated contingent.

I cant get enough CNAs and nurses to provide for elder care and I dont see that getting any better, Heart of America CEO Erik Christenson said. I have quite a few employees who will retire in the next 10 years. Am I going to be able to attract people to replace them in Rugby, North Dakota, in rural North Dakota? Its a real concern.

Better pay, policies needed

To address the worker shortage, Carrie Amero, director of long-term services and supports at AARP, said that state governments and private employers need to be prepared to increase starting-level wages, particularly for positions such as CNAs.

The pay is comparatively low compared to other kinds of entry level jobs, and these are very difficult jobs, Amero said. Theyre emotionally and physically stressful. They have high injury rates. They rarely come with even basic employee benefits like paid sick leave or health insurance and they dont get a lot of training.

The National Direct Care Workforce Resource Center ranks North Dakota 31 out of 50 states and the District of Columbia on its wage index, and 42 out of 51 on its worker supportive policies index. This signals room for improvement in pay, benefits and working conditions needed to attract more health care workers to the state, according to Amero. Neighboring Minnesota ranked 23 for both indices.

Besides pay and benefits, another factor leading to fewer applicants are continued COVID-19 controls that require vaccination, weekly staff testing, continued masking and other policies that most institutions have moved on from but remain in place due to federal mandates, administrators said.

Everyone stepped up and said, Well do whatever it takes to get through this, Pete Antonson, CEO of Northwood Deaconess Health Center near Grand Forks said of the initial COVID controls. But now, those requirements are scaring people away when they weigh the costs and benefits to other employment in a highly competitive labor market, Antonson said.

Both COVID controls and increasingly expensive contract workers can ultimately only be addressed at the federal level, administrators said.

Meanwhile, Jody Nelson, CEO at St. Lukes Medical Center in Crosby, said they are trying to attract workers with larger sign-on bonuses. That includes $5,000 for CNAs and up to $20,000 for registered nurses, but it hasnt made much of a dent.

In September 2021, St. Lukes closed its 40-bed Sunrise Care Center and absorbed nine of the residents in a care facility inside the hospital. It had to close its doors to another 10 residents of the facility. Residents moved to available care openings in Tioga, Williston, and as far away as Minot, further eroding the community.

Most administrators said they were hopeful that immigration into the state from outside the U.S. could be streamlined if bills under debate during North Dakotas legislative session are passed. Senate Bill 2142 specifically calls for the creation of an immigration office within the Department of Commerce to recruit foreign health care workers.
On the closing day of the American Booksellers Association Winter Institute 2023, a keynote and idea exchange tackled book banning and other threats to the freedom to read. Stories of outrage were easy to come by: booksellers report going uninvited to book fairs, moving childrens books off tables occupied by general adult titles, or second-guessing whether to host Drag Queen Story Time. But solutions were in shorter supply. Booksellers are frustrated with schools and libraries capitulations to uninformed book challenges, despite understanding the fears of harassment and violence driving those chilling decisions.

ABA chief communications officer Ray Daniels moderated a panel that included Gender Queer author Maia Kobabe, Rediscovered Books co-owner Laura DeLaney, Green Feather Book Company proprietor Heather Hall, and Kendrick Washington, director of policy at the ACLU of Washington. I have had a wild ride over the past couple of years, said Kobabe, whose memoir tops the American Library Associations list of 10 most-challenged books. I have seen a rise of book sales, but I think most of those sales are to adults and people who listen to NPR. People in book deserts are the ones missing out. We shouldnt have to have a lawsuit in every single school district just to have the books in schools and libraries. Its such a drain on resources.

At Green Feather Book Co. in Norman, Okla., Hall got swept up in a local book banning case last August. Summer Boismier, then an English teacher at Norman High School, had been instructed to restrict students from reading material in order to be in accordance with Oklahomas House Bill 1775, known to some as a critical race theory ban. Boismier complied, but she informed students by displaying a QR code linked to the Brooklyn Public Librarys Books Unbanned initiative. Boismier resigned from her job and now works for BPL. In solidarity, Hall started making buttons, little sheets of QR codes. You can take out your rage on the button makerslots of punk rockers have done it. At Winter Institute, she wore one of the buttons on her lanyard and claimed Norman is now plastered with QR stickers.

DeLaney, whose Rediscovered Books is in Boise, Id., likewise encounters challenges in her state. She spoke against a school library that put up a parental permission barrier and the practice of shadow-banning, where people pre-emptively pull books from their library shelves. Its conforming ahead of the fact. She has her eye on Idaho House Bill 139, which would allow a parent to sue a library or school for sharing material deemed harmful to minors. That would mean no one under the age of 18 could check out books from the library, DeLaney said.

The ABA is aware of these efforts, said Daniels, and is in conversation with Media Coalition, the Department of Education and its Office for Civil Rights, the ACLU, and the ALA, and has legal counsel on call to review proposed legislation that threatens the freedom to read and speak out. Were working to repudiate bills before they move forward and monitoring legislation across the country, he said.

Washington, of the ACLU, encouraged local action as well. When he walks into a school board meeting as an ACLU representative and attorney, they know where I sit, he said, meaning the ACLUs position on social justice is clear to school board members. They need to see the people able to vote them out of office, he said. We have entire toolkits on our website about how to advocate. When a community pulls itself together and makes a stink, that is where the real work is done. Its all local, and thats where the dig is.

Risks and Benefits of Political Involvement

Attendees moved on to a banned books idea exchange moderated by Diana Capriola of Little Shop of Stories (Decatur, Ga.) and Brein Lopez of Childrens Book World in Los Angeles. If you face a challenge, how are you going to respond to it? Capriola asked the group.

Participants shared strategies and looked ahead to further conversations at Childrens Institute this June. Jackie Kellachan of the Golden Notebook Bookstore in Woodstock, N.Y., said her store invited LGBTQ+ individuals and families to contribute a high-quality photo for a Just Say Gay Pride month banner in 2022. DeLaney, in the keynote, offers a Read Freely Project that lets customers buy and distribute a set of 10 books promoting marginalized voices. We want to take the proselytizing strategy and use it in reverse, she said. Others touted Little Free Libraries or book-giveaway shelves to promote reading widely.

The group reminded one another to be mindful of staffers mental and physical well-being in stores that take an activist stance. Hall, who attended the idea exchange, acknowledged that its dangerous to be political when you own a business, especially when youre in a community that largely disagrees with what your politics happen to be. We also want to pay the mortgage. Even so, many in her Oklahoma town are open to the idea that she runs a private business. We have to figure out a way to leverage that language, to make them unable to step up to us in a lawmaking or legislative capacity, she said.

DeLaney echoed Halls thinking. Our stores arent funded by government money. We can speak on peoples behalf, she said, when public institutions like schools and libraries are being intimidated into silence. She allowed that the present situation lends new meaning to the term frontline bookseller, but she has been steadfast in her deep red state. They come in ready for a fight, youre just nice to them, and they deflate a little bit, she said of belligerent visitors to her store. At the end of the day, this is our turf. You dont get to deny access to the people who read.
Steve Bracci, at left, receives the Lifetime Achievement in Bar Exam Support Award from Martin Pritikin, dean of the Concord Law School at Purdue Global, on Saturday (Feb. 25) during Concord Law Schools 25th anniversary celebration in Anaheim. Bracci serves as an associate dean and professor at Concord Law School. (Purdue Global photo/Jon Garcia)

Schools founding dean, Jack Goetz, honored with Founders Award for innovating online legal education

ANAHEIM, Calif.  From dial-up to broadband to exploring how to use cutting-edge virtual reality and artificial intelligence in its curriculum, a lot has changed since the first cohort of Concord Law School students logged into their classes in 1998.

Reflections, mixed with a preview of the future, were provided on Saturday (Feb. 25) by Concord Law School Dean Martin Pritikin during the schools 25th anniversary gala and awards dinner.

Concord was an audacious concept when it was founded in 1998, Pritikin said. But 25 years later, were not just surviving, were thriving.

Pritikin said Concord thrives because it is continually combining best practices in legal education with research in adult and distance learning, opening the doors for many students who want to study law but cant do so at a traditional brick-and-mortar school due to family responsibilities, jobs, geography or other circumstances. Another key factor in the schools success: It costs about one-third less than a traditional law school.

Jack Goetz, the founding dean of Concord Law School, was honored during the gala with the Founders Award for his work in conceiving the nations first online law school. Goetz worked with a tech company to custom-tailor a learning management system for Concord. He recruited professors to build the curriculum and teach, helping move the school from a concept to a functioning educational institution. And he served as dean for its first seven years. He is a recognized leader in the field of online learning, with contributions to the legal profession and education throughout his career.

Other awards to alumni and supporters included:

Lifetime Service Award: Dolan Williams of San Diego and a 2015 Concord Law School graduate, who served as commencement speaker this year and two previous times. He has served on the Concord Deans Advisory Council for six years and on the Purdue Alumni Association Board of Directors. Williams has also mentored numerous students about law school, legal careers and more, all while maintaining his legal practice in San Diego and spending time with his wife and four children.

Lifetime Service Award: Somita Basu of Santa Clarita, California, and a 2011 Concord Law School graduate, who has represented Concord with distinction in her service to the California legal profession and broader community. In addition to being a co-founder and partner of Norton Basu LLP, she has served as chair of the California Lawyers Associations Solo and Small Firm Section and co-chair of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Outreach Committee. Basu has served as an externship supervisor for multiple Concord students, volunteered with Bay Area Legal Aid and served on numerous philanthropic boards. She was recipient of the California Lawyer Associations Excellence in Leadership Award, which is presented to a volunteer who demonstrates a commitment to the CLAs mission to promote excellence, diversity and inclusion in the legal profession and represents outstanding leadership in the practice of law.

Lifetime Achievement in Bar Exam Support Award: Steve Bracci of Monrovia, California, who is an associate dean and professor at Concord Law School. Bracci is one of Concords original employees. He is known for providing expert instruction and guidance to law students who have sat for the California bar exam, breaking down complicated concepts and presenting them in a way students can absorb, retain and apply.

Several students or recent graduates were recognized for their outstanding personal achievement:

Matt Conaway of Indianola, Iowa, (August 22) and Condreda Pressley of Longs, South Carolina, (December 22), both received the Legal Service Award, which honors students who put forth significant effort in helping people in need receive legal assistance.

of Indianola, Iowa, (August 22) and of Longs, South Carolina, (December 22), both received the Legal Service Award, which honors students who put forth significant effort in helping people in need receive legal assistance. The Sue Lane Award, honoring students from the graduating class who embody a strong work ethic, a compassionate nature and service to the community, was presented to Sojourner Moody of Oxford, Georgia, (April 22); Sarah Powers of Irving, Texas, (December 22); Julio Gagnon of Fairfax, Virginia, (December 22); and Scott Bowen of Charlotte, North Carolina, (August 22).

of Oxford, Georgia, (April 22); of Irving, Texas, (December 22); of Fairfax, Virginia, (December 22); and of Charlotte, North Carolina, (August 22). The EJD Award, given to the student with the highest GPA in the Executive Juris Doctorate graduating cohort, was awarded to Brennan Quintus of Bismarck, North Dakota, (August 22) and Elizabeth Duncan of Eugene, Oregon, (December 22).

of Bismarck, North Dakota, (August 22) and of Eugene, Oregon, (December 22). Beth Evans of Redondo Beach, California, (August 22) and David Douglas of Windsor, California, (December 22), were recipients of the Jack Goetz Award, which is awarded to the student with the highest GPA in the JD graduating cohort.

Writer/Media contact: Matthew Oates, 765-496-6160, oatesw@purdue.edu; @mo_oates

Source: Martin Pritikin, Beth Smith, Amy Hawkinson
Launched with the support of 21 mobile network operators, the GSMA Open Gateway comprises a framework of universal network application programmable interfaces (APIs), providing federated access to global network capabilities with the intended result of simplifying service delivery and enabling faster time to market. The GSMA sees the move as representing a paradigm shift in the way the telecoms industry designs and delivers services in an API economy world.GSMA Open Gateway will enable single points of access to ultra-broadband networks and provide a catalyst for immersive technologies and Web3  giving them the ability to fulfill their potential and reach critical mass, explained Jose Maria Alvarez-Pallete Lopez, GSMA Board Chairman and chairman & CEO of Telefonica.Telcos have come a long way in developing a global platform to connect everyone and everything. And now, by federating open network APIs and applying the roaming concept of interoperability, mobile operators and cloud services will be truly integrated to enable a new world of opportunity. Collaboration amongst telecom operators and cloud providers is crucial in this new digital ecosystem.The first demonstrations of GSMA Open Gateway have just been revealed at MWC Barcelona 2023. They include an immersive concert experience from Axiata, using APIs for device location, carrier billing and authentication; a live jam session from the 5G Future Forum with musicians around the world, supported by the Edge Site Selection API; and an immersive gaming and high-definition video showcase, from Orange , Telefonica, Vodafone and Ericsson /Vonage based on the Quality on Demand (QoD) API. Application developers from Blacknut, Zoom and Vonage utilised the GSMA Open Gateway QoD API to add innovative features and enhance the mobile experience.In addition, Singtel, AIS, Summit Tech and Bridge Alliance offered a live broadcast demonstration using 5G and mobile edge computing (MEC) to provide a hyper-personalised view in 8K resolution. Participants were able to interact in real-time within live events across different country networks.
There are historical accounts of a woman named Sally Fairfax who was a close friend of George Washington and with whom he may have had an affectionate relationship. Sally Fairfax was the wife of Washington's close friend and neighbor, George William Fairfax. It is believed that Washington may have been attracted to Sally Fairfax and that she may have returned his feelings.

However, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that their relationship was ever anything more than a close friendship. While some historians speculate that Washington may have had romantic feelings for Sally Fairfax, others argue that their relationship was purely platonic.

Regardless of the nature of their relationship, it is clear that Sally Fairfax was an important figure in Washington's life. He wrote many letters to her throughout their friendship, and they continued to correspond even after she moved away from Virginia.

How did George Washington meet his wife Martha?
Closing the Atlanta Medical Center left behind a community of 200,000 uninsured individuals living in Fulton and DeKalb counties alone. If healthcare is supposed to serve and improve the wellbeing of people, regardless of severity or class, why would Wellstar Health System, who ran the Atlanta Medical Center, pull out of a community so heavily dependent on its services?
"We love meeting hikers, and have shuttled them on occasion," said W. Collective co-owner Sarah Krinsky. The store as joined Bennington's Appalachian Trail Community.
BENNINGTON  Colleen McQuade has been in the retail cannabis business in Vermont for only six months, but she is already forging connections a
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The Reformers Meetings Box is offered as a service and in no way meets the official requirements of warning a meeting.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Overcast. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 69F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early with showers later at night. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Thai police nabbed drug kingpin Sarahat Sawangjaeng, 25, in Bangkok on Friday. Sawangjaeng was charged for importing massive quantities of MDMA from Europe but has been on the lam since December. In the meantime, he apparently underwent multiple plastic surgeries and changed his name to Jimin Cheong. An undercover officer posed as a wannabe drug mule to orchestrate the bust. From the Straits Times:

Thai media reported that the police were shocked when they arrived to arrest Mr Sarahat as "none of his original face was left", and he had transformed into a "handsome Korean man".

The police knew what he originally looked like because he had been arrested three times previously.
"Where have we been on Yemen? Why aren't we seeing Yemen in the news every single day?" asked Isaac Evans-Frantz of Brattleboro during a rally in Pliny Park last year.
The Bellows Falls Train Station is at the nexus of historic preservation, economic development and transportation, and a host of state and federal agencies are involved, and also helping to pay the bill.
Pottsville, PA (17901)

Today

Considerable clouds early. Some decrease in clouds later in the day. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 77F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Rain likely. Low 53F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
America warns China against giving weapons to Russia, but Beijing says US is in no position to point fingers.

Russian President Vladimir Putin greets Chinas foreign policy chief Wang Yi during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023.

Chinas foreign ministry has accused the United States of hypocrisy after a Biden administration official over the weekend warned Beijing of real cost if it provides lethal aid to Russia for use in Ukraine.

Speaking to CNN on Sunday morning, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said Chinas leaders tie themselves in knots when it comes to the Russia-Ukraine conflict because they want to support Moscow without being seen by the wider world as aiding an invasion.

Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance, Sullivan said. But if it goes down that road, it will come at real cost to China, and I think China's leaders are weighing that as they make their decision.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, Dec. 12, 2022. (Associated Press)





In response, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Mao Ning noted to reporters at a press conference on Monday that the United States was itself responsible for providing lethal aid to the conflict.

On the Ukraine issue, China has been actively promoting peace talks and the political settlement of the crisis, Mao said. The U.S. is in no position to point fingers at China-Russia relations.

She compared the situation in Ukraine to Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a renegade province and has vowed to recapture.

In addition to pouring lethal weapons into the battlefield in Ukraine, the U.S. has been selling sophisticated weapons to the Taiwan region in violation of the three China-U.S. joint communiques, Mao said. What exactly is the U.S. up to? The world deserves to know.

War of words

The latest war of words between China and the United States comes after a week of vague claims by American officials that Beijing is at least considering providing lethal aid to Russia for use in Ukraine, with unconfirmed reports about plans to provide kamikaze drones.

U.S. officials have declined to provide any details of the intelligence they claim shows Beijing considering the option, citing operational secrecy, and some have said they hope it amounts to nothing.

But the provision of lethal aid to Moscow to help in its foundering invasion of Ukraine could blow open Beijings recent diplomacy.

After declaring a no limits relationship with Moscow in the weeks leading up to the invasion a year ago, Beijing has more recently attempted to present a front of neutrality in the conflict, and last week even released what it termed a peace proposal.

But that came just days after Chinese foreign policy chief Wang Yi was in Moscow to visit Russian President Vladimir Putin, which was itself just days after U.S. President Joe Biden made a surprise visit to Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

A local resident reacts as she walks on an empty street near a building damaged by a Russian military strike in the ruined city of Bakhmut, Ukraine, Friday, Feb. 24, 2023. (Reuters)

American officials have also noted Wang did not make an equivalent trip to Kyiv before issuing the proposal, and say China was trying to have it both ways in a conflict where one side is the clear aggressor.

China is trying to broadcast and disguise itself in this veneer of neutrality, even as it deepens its engagement with Russia in key ways: politically, diplomatically, economically, and potentially in the security realm as well, State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Wednesday, before alluding to Chinas designs on Taiwan.

The spokesman noted what he said was the clear source of the growing Russia-China nexus since last years Ukraine invasion.

They share an intent, he said, to return the world to a previous era in which big countries could bully small countries, borders could be redrawn by force  an era in which might could make right.

New world order

Despite the claims from senior officials about Beijings deliberations over lethal aid provision, on Friday  the one-year anniversary of the invasion  Biden himself appeared to downplay the intelligence.

I dont anticipate a major initiative on the part of China providing weaponry to Russia, Biden told ABC News at the White House.

But he said there would be consequences if Beijing went ahead.

We would respond, Biden said.

Some 14 million Ukrainians have been displaced from their homes since Russias February 2022 invasion and at least 20,000 civilians have been confirmed killed or injured, according to U.N. estimates, even as U.N. officials say the true number is likely much higher.

Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, late last year said at least 100,000 Russian troops and 100,000 Ukrainian troops had also been killed in the war, but the real number is unclear with Ukrainian and Russian officials giving vastly different figures.

But U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said he does not believe the world order is devolving into a second Cold War, with two superpowers vying for strategic supremacy through a proxy war.

I don't think it reflects the current reality, in a few ways, Blinken told an event hosted by The Atlantic on Thursday, noting that China and the United States have fundamental interests in common and are too integrated in terms of trade to use the Cold War label.

But he said China and Russia were trying to rewrite global norms.

It's a competition, really, to shape what comes next  what comes after the post-Cold War era, which is over. And China's vision for a world order is fundamentally different from ours, Blinken said, adding that a principle was at stake if Russias invasion succeeds.

It not only poses a threat to Ukraine and its people, he said, but to peace and security around the world, to the extent that other would-be aggressors get the wrong message from what Russia is doing.

Edited by Malcolm Foster.
When a Florida man was stopped by a cop and told to get out of his car, he did what any gentleman in the Sunshine State would do and, allegedly, trapped two officers in his car. He then proceeded to drive toward a pole before one of the cops took over the wheel  just in the nick of time.

According to Miami Herald, 27-year-old Antonio Marquis Belle-Betts was told to step out of his car during an afternoon traffic stop on Saturday after a police officer noticed drug paraphernalia and a knife on either side of him. But Belle-Betts had a brighter idea.

From Miami Herald:

As officers tried to remove him, Belle-Betts trapped one of the officer's arms in the vehicle and put it in drive, the release says. A backup officer tried to free the trapped officer as both were dragged down the street, according to police. The trapped officer's arm became free, but the other officer got stuck in the vehicle with Belle-Betts as he accelerated, the release says. Belle-Betts took over the officer's shoulder radio and told him, "You're going to die today" as he drove toward a power pole, according to police. He also began striking the officer in the face, police said. The officer took control of the steering wheel and hit the brake with his foot before the vehicle crashed, the release says.

The three men were taken to the hospital with minor injuries, while Belle-Betts was arrested and "is being held on a $1.125 million bond," according to the Herald. He faces many charges, including attempted felony murder.
But the food stalls are hurting families who run small food shops to make ends meet

North Koreas state-run Tokchon Motor company desperately needs money to buy raw materials so it can make enough cars, trucks and auto parts to hit government-set production targets.

The company has therefore set up food stalls outside its gates selling roasted sweet potatoes to raise funds, sources in the country told Radio Free Asia.

Other state-run enterprises are doing the same thing, selling a range of foods from chestnuts to fruit, hoping to generate enough money to buy what they need.

Its another example of how North Koreas sputtering, state-run economy functions.

Theyre not just selling roasted sweet potatoes and roasted chestnuts at these factories, a resident of South Pyongan province said on condition of anonymity for security reasons. Theyre selling bread, cigarettes, and fruit at prices you see at the market. Its like theyre selling at a general food store.

Production in North Korean factories ground to a halt when authorities closed the border with China in early 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. That cut off imports of raw materials and other trade between the two countries.

Limited cross-border trade has since resumed, but output has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

At the beginning of 2023, authorities in Pyongyang presented a 12-point economic plan for the new year, and threatened officials at state-run companies that they would be held accountable if they couldnt fulfill their part in reaching these goals.

Key to this plan was for the factories to start up again  but without government funding for buying raw materials.

Authorities are pressuring manufacturers to make their own money to buy what they need, prompting them to fall back on selling basic foods, the sources said.

Tokchon Motor complex

The Tokchon Motor complex, located in South Pyongan, is one of North Koreas biggest state-run manufacturing sites. Set up in 1958, it is now home to nine factories.

In 2017, supreme leader Kim Jong Un ordered Tokchon to produce a new type of 5-ton truck, and so the assembly lines were renovated and modernized to that end.

But sales and production nose-dived in 2020, and the factory had no money to procure supplies and raw materials, the source said.

Since the beginning of this month, a roasted sweet potato stand has been installed at the front gate of each factory in the Tokchon Motor Complex, the source said.

The managers of each plant in the complex set up a stand to sell roasted sweet potatoes, saying that they would use the earnings to prepare materials and funds to produce automobile parts and tires, he said.

Factories at the Namhung Youth Chemical Complex in the same province also began operating food stalls, another source told RFA on condition of anonymity to speak freely.

The complex has 30,000 employees and has been producing chemicals, fertilizer and soda water since the 1970s.

The fertilizer plant says they are preparing for the farming season by procuring the parts needed to replace production facilities for urea fertilizer, the second source said. To that end, they set up a large shelf to sell sweet potatoes, dububap [rice-filled tofu pouches], and even alcohol.

Cutting into family businesses

But the factory-run food stalls are cutting into the business of many families who operate small market stalls that are a fixture in the North Korean economy.

Since government-assigned jobs dont provide nearly enough pay to survive on, most families have to run side businesses to generate additional income.

The factory-sold sweet potatoes are of better quality than those sold in the markets, so the factory stalls will almost certainly reduce the street vendors sales, the sources said.

Thats made many people upset.

They are pointing fingers, saying [the factories] are ruining the livelihoods of the common people who depend on selling food at the markets, the second source said.

Translated by Claire Shinyoung Oh Lee. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster.
We have to unite.' Protest brings together ethnic groups to take a stand against the military.

A demonstrator wears a face mask with an image of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi and a headband with the three-fingers salute, a symbol of resistance, during a street march and a demonstration against the Myanmar junta and its attacks on civilians in Washington, D.C., Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023.

Braving snow flurries and chanting slogans, roughly 300 members of the Burmese diaspora in the United States marched to the White House over the weekend, demanding an end to the juntas air strikes and the establishment of a no-fly zone over Myanmar.

Democracy is coming today, dictatorship is going away, they chanted as they marched through the streets of Washington on Saturday.

The procession included Buddhist monks, children, young people and middle-aged couples. Many drove hundreds of kilometers through freezing temperatures from as far away as Minnesota and upstate New York to participate.

Dubbed the Multi-ethnic march, the protest brought together the diasporas varied ethnic groups to take a stand against the military, which took control of the government in a February 2021 coup and has been battling rebel groups ever since.

Nay Htoo, a longtime board member with the Karen Organization of Minnesota, drove for 16 hours through the night with his wife, daughter, and son-in-law to join the event. In his hurry to join the march on time, he left his gloves in the car, leaving his hands pink and raw from the cold, but he insisted it was worth it.

Demonstrators carrying the flag of Myanmars National League for Democracy participate in a street march against the Myanmar junta, Washington, D.C., Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. Credit: Gemunu Amarasinghe/RFA





The elderly community leader was one of several speakers to address the crowd at the march, using his speech to call for a swift resolution to the coup and unity amongst the different ethnic groups in standing against the military.

Every day there are air strikes, peoples houses are damaged, people are dying, he said, speaking afterwards. This must stop.

Reliance on airstrikes

Facing setbacks on the ground and stiff resistance from rebel groups since the coup, the military is increasingly relying on airstrikes in recent months  and many seem to target civilians.

Hundreds of people have been killed and thousands more left homeless by the waves of air strikes and arson attacks. The Sagaing region in the north and Kayin state, in the east, bordering Thailand  both viewed as hotbeds of rebellion  have borne the brunt of the attacks.

Demonstrators shout slogans and display placards during a march against the Myanmar junta in Washington, D.C., Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. Credit: Gemunu Amarasinghe/RFA





The military carried out 57 airstrikes in Kayin state in January alone, killing 13 civilians, including a 2-year-old child and two leaders of the Christian community, according to the Karen National Union.

In October, military jets bombed a concert in northern Myanmar commemorating the founding of an ethnic political group Kachin Independence Organization, killing 63 people  many of them civilians  and wounding 100 more.

Reject juntas sham election

In Washington, spirits were high despite the snow and rain, with the crowd singing along to the revolutionary anthem, Blood Oath, and carrying signs saying, End deadly air strikes, and Reject juntas sham election  a reference to vague plans by the military government to hold a vote later this year.

Gen-Z volunteers Grace Mang and Matha Chin, who have been living in the United States for seven years, said it was their first time attending such a protest. They felt compelled to join as one of the few gestures of solidarity available to them from afar.

Theres nothing much we can do from here, no other way to really show support, so we wanted to come and show we are with them, said Martha.

Demonstrators display a picture of deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi and flash three-fingers salute, a symbol of the resistance, during a protest against the Myanmar junta outside the White House in Washington, D.C., Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. Credit: Gemunu Amarasinghe/RFA





The Burmese diaspora in the United States has been mobilizing since the early days of the coup, organizing fundraisers and marches and calling on the U.S. government to ramp up measures against the junta.

The Burma Act, which was passed by Congress in 2022 as part of a military spending bill, allows the United States to engage with the opposition National Unity Government and other opposition groups in exile, as well as to impose further sanctions against the junta. Its enactment paved the way for the NUG to open a shadow embassy in Washington D.C earlier in Feb. 2023.

The importance of inter-ethnic unity to the resistance efforts is one of the key themes emphasized by leaders of the U.S. diaspora.

It is everyone's fight

Aung San Christopher Win, a Maramagri activist from Rakhine who also spoke at the march, said the coup had encouraged more Burmese, especially those from majority groups, to address inter-ethnic discrimination.

Before the coup, few activists would speak up for ethnic minorities like the Chin or the Rohingya, he said, adding that his own campaigning efforts back in Myanmar had often drawn criticism from majority groups.

He arrived in the United States as a refugee in early 2021 after his political activities made him a target of the military.

The turnout despite the snowy weather shows how much we want democracy, said Saw Luh Tort, an organizer from Buffalo, New York.

The military has been doing divide-and-rule for decades, he said. Something they didnt know was that it would bring us together. It is everyones fight.

Edited by Malcolm Foster.
A Christian pastor-turned-freedom-fighter also died in the attack.

Chinland Defense Force Cpt. Salai Billi Aung Thang, who was killed by junta shelling of Am Laung village, Mindat township, Chin state on Feb. 25, 2023.

A junta attack on a village in Myanmars northwestern Chin state killed a child and its parents, and also claimed the life of a former Chrisian pastor, locals told RFA.

Saturdays artillery bombardment of Am Laung village in Mindat township also killed a soldier from the anti-junta Chinland Defense Force. The group identified him as Cpt. Salai Billi Aung Thang. It said he was a Christian pastor in Mindat before the military coup.

Villagers declined to give the names and ages of the dead family members for fear of reprisals.

A junta army convoy on the Mindat-Matupi road in Chin state on May 6, 2022. Credit: Citizen journalist





The Chinland Defense Force said Infantry Battalion-274 shelled the village.

Locals said the junta cut phone lines and internet access in Mindat town ahead of the attack.

They said Battalion-274 often shells villages, hoping to flush out militia members or punish residents for harboring them.

RFA called Chin states junta spokesman, Thant Zin, seeking comment on the incident, but no one answered.

Mindat was the first town to resist junta forces following the Feb. 1, 2021 coup, using traditional Chin hand-made hunting rifles. The same crude flintlock Tumee rifles were used by their forefathers to fight off British colonizers in the 1880s.

There have been more than 200 junta killings of ethnic Chin people since the coup, according to the list of Institute of Chin Affairs, a human rights organization based in Chin state.

In April 2022, the Chin Human Rights Organization (CHRO) said more than 340,000 people had fled their homes in northwestern Myanmar, including Chin state, since the coup.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn.
Children, other residents motivated to pick up plastic bags and wrappers from under homes, streets and drains.

A campaign to pay people for their plastic garbage in select parts of Yangon has resulted in cleaner neighborhoods and an increased awareness of the difficult-to-decompose waste.

The program started last year by Thant Myanmar, a Yangon-based anti-plastic environmental group, pays 100-kyat (about 5 US cents) per viss (about 3.6 lbs) of plastic. The purchases are made at collection sites of the Yangon City Development Committee.

The visible difference is that garbage is cleared, said Hnin Wai of Thant Myanmar. These places used to be heavily littered. Now people collect their household garbage and sell it. When there is no garbage under their houses, they collect litter from the streets.

And as a result, mosquitoes can no longer breed and there are no mice in their neighborhood, Hnin Wai said.

Most people who live in the areas targeted by Thant Myanmar usually throw their garbage under their houses, even though they could dispose of it at a local landfill, she said. As a result, drainages around their homes and nearby lakes are polluted.

Yangon resident Yin Mar Myint told Radio Free Asia that she considers the money paid by Thant Myanmar group as more of a labor fee than an exchange of money for garbage. She said children and adults in her quarter in South Dagon township are typically earning 3,000 to 10,000 kyat (about US $1.40 to $4.75) from picking plastic garbage.

Thant Myanmar bought plastic waste in the citys South Dagon, Shwe Paukkan, Dagon Seik Kan and Thanlyin townships from Feb. 11 to Feb. 14.

Still not enough

The campaign started last year in several other Yangon townships, according to Thant Myanmar. The city of 8 million people produces more than 2,300 tons of garbage per day, 400 tons of which is plastic waste.

Its still not enough, in fact, Thant Myanmars Ye Lin Htet said of the campaign. We can cover only one section of a neighborhood or a quarter.

Most people are primarily occupied with their struggle to make a daily living, he said. But the program has also been aimed at getting people to think of the dangers of plastic waste, and of the importance of separating recyclables from material that could be used as compost.

Myanmar imports more than 600,000 tons of plastic from abroad each year, mostly from ready-to-eat food packaging, single-use plastic products and plastic bags, according to Thant Myanmar.

Additionally, the countrys Irrawaddy River was included in the list of the world's 10 most polluted rivers in 2021. According to a survey by Fauna & Flora International, as many as 119 tons of plastic materials are dumped into the river every day.

Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.
It says 1 Taiwanese and 5 Indonesians are aboard Sheng Feng No. 128.

Sheng Feng No. 128, a missing Taiwanese-flagged fishing boat, is seen in this undated photo released by the Philippine Coast Guard, Feb. 27, 2023.

The Philippines deployed search-and-rescue teams Monday to help look for a missing Taiwan-flagged fishing boat with a crew of one Taiwanese and five Indonesians, the coast guard said.

The boat, Sheng Feng No. 128, was last seen some 767 kilometers (414 nautical miles) northwest of the island nation of Palau in the western Pacific, the Philippine Coast Guard said in a statement.

The Coast Guard Command Center in Manila said it had directed Coast Guard Districts in the eastern seaboard and facing the Pacific to carry out the search-and-rescue operations after Commander Arthur Yang, Taiwans coast guard attache, requested assistance.

Two U.S. Coast Guard aircraft had earlier been deployed to conduct air surveillance but yielded a negative result, the PCG said.

Similarly, a commercial vessel as well as eight Taiwanese fishing boats had scoured the vast seas but come up empty, it said. Two Taiwanese coast guard cutters were also on the way to search vicinity waters, the statement said.

The Philippine assistance was requested due to the possibility that the missing Taiwanese fishing vessel drifted towards the countrys eastern seaboard, the Philippine Coast Guard said.

The Philippines adheres to the one-China policy but enjoys healthy commercial relations with Taiwan, where an estimated 150,000 Filipinos live and work, making them the third largest contingent of expatriate workers.

Both Taipei and Manila also have overlapping claims to parts of the South China Sea, along with China, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei.

Recently, the Philippines granted the United States greater access to its military bases over fears of a potential invasion of Taiwan by China.

Taiwanese investigators ride a rubber boat as they inspect a ship involved in the alleged shooting of a Taiwanese fisherman during their probe in Manila, May 28, 2013.

Credit: Aaron Favila/AP Photo, File

The last diplomatic row between the Philippines and Taiwan took place in 2013, when Taipei imposed sanctions on Manila after the killing of a Taiwanese fisherman by Filipino coast guard personnel in waters north of the Philippine archipelago.

Taiwan alleged that the killing took place in its exclusive economic zone and was a violation of international law. The sanctions included the freezing of applications for work permits, the cessation of economic exchanges and military exercises in waters between the two sides. The row however was later resolved, and diplomatic ties normalized.

Jojo Rinoza and Jeoffrey Maitem contributed to this report from Manila and Davao City, Philippines.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news service.
When the Taliban returned to power in 2021 in a lightning military insurrection that toppled Afghanistans internationally recognized government, the country immediately fell into diplomatic isolation.



Two of Kabuls neighbors to the north, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, chose a different route, putting the hard-line groups fractious history with the former Soviet Central Asian republics aside and prioritizing engagement over criticism and pressure.



But a giant canal project in Afghanistan now taking shape that the Taliban is pursuing at a rapid pace is giving the two water-stressed countries doubts about whether strategic patience with the Islamic fundamentalist group will yield rewards.



If you look at other projects that have involved Afghanistan and Central Asia somehow, there has often been a win-win element, Jennifer Brick Murtazashvili, founding director of the Center for Governance and Markets at the University of Pittsburgh, told RFE/RL.



But the Qosh Tepa Irrigation Canal, which will divert large volumes of water from the dwindling transboundary Amu Darya River, is a very different case.



This is very much zero sum, because water is a finite good and there dont seem to be any benefits for Afghanistans neighbors here, said Murtazashvili, adding that she expects the Central Asian countries to pursue a lot of quiet diplomacy on the project that will add to the pressures faced by outsized agricultural sectors already battling climate change and historical mismanagement.

But the Taliban will be probing to see how far it can go, Murtazashvili said, something she suggested its downstream neighbors will have to get used to.



If the first Taliban [regime that ruled most of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001] was weighed down by insurgency and in some ways never really behaved like a state, Taliban 2.0 seems to really like the idea of projecting state power, Murtazashvili said.



Old Project With New Momentum



The stated dimensions of the irrigation canal that workers started digging last spring are enough to understand why the downstream countries have concerns.



With a length of 285 kilometers and a width of some 100 meters, experts believe it could draw a significant portion of the Amu Daryas flow while irrigating 550,000 hectares of land.



An Afghan civil servant with knowledge of the project told RFE/RLs Uzbek Service that work on the second of three stages of the project that began in the spring of 2022 is expected to begin in the coming months, with more than 100 kilometers already dug and visible from space.



The plan to irrigate land in northern Afghanistan is not new.



Farid Azim, an official at the National Development Company overseeing its construction, pointed out last year that Afghanistans first president, Mohammad Daud Khan, had a similar vision in the 1970s.

The project was most recently pursued by the U.S.-backed administration of President Ashraf Ghani -- which the Taliban overthrew less than two years ago.



A press release issued by the United States Agency for International Development from 2018 marking the launch of a Washington-funded feasibility study for Qosh Tepa described a 200 kilometer-long canal serving a cultivated catchment area of 500,000 hectares.



Developing Afghanistans agriculture sector provides great potential for employment and economic growth, then-U.S. Ambassador John R. Bass said in the release.



But the project was not a pressing concern for neighbors, primarily because political infighting and chronic instability in northern Afghanistan had made it impractical.



Bismellah Alizada, a researcher at Londons School of Oriental and African Studies, told RFE/RL that Rashid Dostum, who was the Afghan first vice president from 2014 to 2020, was among the influential politicians with concerns about the project.



One of those concerns was that it would be used to benefit and resettle members of the politically dominant Pashtun group to which President Ashraf Ghani belonged, Alizada said.



Dostum -- an ethnic Uzbek warlord -- long enjoyed strong ties to the regime in Uzbekistan and was even reported to have fled there when the Taliban captured Mazar-e Sharif, overwhelming forces jointly under his command before the group advanced on Kabul.

Members of Dostums exiled Junbish-e Milli party have reiterated these concerns more recently, but the reality is that the Taliban has no opponents capable of preventing it from forging ahead with giant public works projects, Alizada said.



More obvious obstacles are technical capacity and cash, with billions of dollars in funds belonging to Afghanistans central bank frozen after the Taliban takeover. That would make it hard for the cash-strapped Taliban to finance a project whose first phase cost nearly $100 million, according to reports.



But Graeme Smith, a senior consultant for the International Crisis Groups Asia Program, said the Taliban has a strong political will to finish off projects begun by the former government with Qosh Tepa the biggest that the group has revived so far.



With their very limited resources, the Taliban have prioritized [Qosh Tepa], said Smith, expressing skepticism that the Islamic fundamentalist group would pay attention to its neighbors concerns.



The Taliban is a nationalist movement intensely focused on their domestic constituencies, Smith said.



I think its fair to assume they will continue governing with a strong focus on issues inside the country and less regard for concerns outside, he told RFE/RL.



Games Of Leverage



Taciturn Turkmenistan has so far said nothing about the canal project.



But a Turkmenistan-based hydrologist speaking in March to RFE/RLs Turkmen Service on condition of anonymity called the project not a problem, but a disaster.



RFE/RL correspondents in the closed authoritarian country reported this year about severe water shortages in Turkmenistans Soviet-built Karakum Canal, which is four times the length of the one the Taliban is seeking to complete.



The World Resources Institute in 2019 ranked Turkmenistan as one of 17 countries in the world with extremely high water stress. Uzbekistan and Afghanistan were placed in the next highest category. Central Asia as a whole depends on rivers that rise in mountains, where many glacier stocks are being depleted by climate change.



Tashkent, whose own Moscow-imposed, cotton-growing legacy is one of the chief causes of the Amu Daryas demise, has been more proactive on Qosh Tepa.

According to the Talibans deputy prime minister for economic affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the topic was among those broached by Uzbek presidential envoy and former Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Komilov when he was in Kabul last month for talks on economic cooperation.



Komilov was cited by Baradars office as saying that Uzbekistan was ready to work with the Islamic emirate (the Taliban-ruled Afghanistan) through technical teams in order to maximize the benefits of the Qosh Tepa canal project.



Uzbekistan provided no comment to that effect in its release on the talks, but President Shavkat Mirziyoev -- in a national address in December -- flagged Qosh Tepa as a concern as he touched on the problem of desertification.

At the moment, we consider it necessary to conduct practical talks on the construction of a new canal in the Amu Darya basin with the interim government of neighboring Afghanistan and the international community based on international standards and taking into account the interests of all countries in the region, he said.



We believe that this approach will be supported by our neighbors.



Mirziyoevs preference for dialogue over threats on transboundary water use has been welcomed by the neighborhood since predecessor Islam Karimov passed away in 2016.



This appears to have worked with upstream Kyrgyzstan, where successful border negotiations saw Uzbekistan granted de facto control of a strategic reservoir located inside Kyrgyz territory, albeit not without a rash of political discontent in Kyrgyzstan.

And although authoritarian Karimov virulently opposed the construction of giant hydroelectric dams in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Mirziyoev has given both his blessing, with Tashkent even attaching itself to Kyrgyzstans Kambar-Ata-1 project as a partner -- a move that will give it a hand in upstream management.



Qosh Tepa, however, is becoming a source of public anxiety in Uzbekistan.



With the volume of the Amu Darya water [already] decreasing, Afghans will take a quarter of its water through this canal, complained Uzbek academic and outspoken government critic Khidirnazar Allakulov in an interview with RFE/RLs Uzbek Service.



Instead of solving the problem, the Uzbek government takes the Taliban to Samarkand, dressing them and presenting them with gifts. The government bows to Afghanistan.. Not only the current generation, but also future [Uzbek] generations can be endangered by the water problem, Allakulov said.



Regular exchanges between the Turkmen and Uzbek governments and the Taliban predated the fall of the Ghani government, and Turkmenistan was among the first countries in the world to accept a Taliban-appointed ambassador.

But in line with the international community as a whole, neither has recognized the new regime in Kabul.



This only complicates what Alizada calls the legal lacuna between Afghanistan and its former communist neighbors, since Kabul had not previously signed treaties with them on transboundary management.



And while Afghanistan is keen for more trade opportunities and relies on its northern neighbors for supplies of electricity for several provinces, there are other areas of these bilateral relations where the Taliban feels it has real leverage, Alizada argued.



For the Central Asian countries, I think the number one concern is hard security, especially with the regions history with transnational extremist groups. The Taliban will continue to use assurances on security in negotiations with these countries going forward.
Border guards in Belarus have increased their checks of people leaving the country after anti-government activists claimed to have launched a drone attack on a Russian surveillance aircraft that was parked at an airfield near Minsk.

People crossing the border on February 27 said that, unlike during normal checks, guards searched personal belongings and examined bags and vehicles closely.

Belarus border officials would not comment on the situation, which comes a day after the alleged attack on the Russian aircraft, an A-50 surveillance plane.

Alyaksandr Azarov, the head of the activist anti-government group BYPOL, told RFE/RL's Belarus Service that drones were used to attack the plane while it was on the ground, adding that those who participated in the operation "are now safe, outside the country."

RFE/RL has not been able to independently verify the attack. The Kremlin said it had no comment.

Yuriy Ihnat, spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, said word of the alleged attack on the aircraft was "good news for the Air Force of Ukraine."

The A-50 was "constantly in the air" conducting radar reconnaissance, scanning for Ukrainian air-defense equipment, and tracking the movement of Ukrainian aircraft, he said on Ukrainian television.

Ihnat added that he believes that the attack was carried out by Belarusian anti-government activists, saying he has "sources of information" but declining to elaborate.

The Russian website Tsargrad reported that the attack on the A-50 aircraft was carried out by six drones at once, most of which were shot down as they approached the target.

"We will not reveal the number of drones yet, but I can confirm that it was a drone attack. Let the special services work and try to determine how many there were," Azarov said.

Human rights groups say security forces have already raided a residence near the airfield, where activist Kristsina Maksimenka was detained.

Azarov, who served as a lieutenant colonel with the Interior Ministrys organized crime unit (known as GUBOPIK), founded BYPOL in 2020 in the wake of unprecedented mass protests that erupted when authoritarian ruler Alyaksadr Lukashenka claimed victory in a disputed election. BYPOL stands for Union of Security Forces of Belarus.

The group gained prominence over the past year for its efforts to damaged Belarusian railways to impede the progress of Russian troops and arms to Ukraine.

The campaign was called the "railways war," while those involved in the campaign have been nicknamed "railway guerrillas." Several "railway guerrillas" have already been handed lengthy prison terms after being caught.

Azarov said the group had decided to change tactics when opportunities arose, but that it takes three to four months "to prepare an action."

"It is necessary to conduct reconnaissance, to see where to approach from. We had many options. One action fails, we take on another. And this is how our partisans found such an interesting target. Of course, we also advise partisans, but they also offer facilities depending on their capabilities. It sometimes turns out to be joint work," Azarov said.

Belarus is not a direct participant in the war in Ukraine, but it has provided logistical support to Russia for the invasion by allowing Russian forces to enter Ukraine via Belarusian territory.

Western governments have slapped Belarus, like Russia, with an ever-increasing list of financial sanctions in response to the Kremlin's war on Ukraine, and for Belarus's efforts to aid the Russian invasion.

With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service
ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is making his first visit to a region that is roiled by Russia's invasion of Ukraine but still loyal to Moscow, while bloody crackdowns have overshadowed reform drives initiated in Central Asia's two largest countries -- Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

In another sense, the environment that the post's current holder, Antony Blinken, is likely to encounter after touching down in the Kazakh capital, Astana, on February 28 will be a familiar one.

Long one of the world's most authoritarian neighborhoods, Central Asia is perhaps even less democratic now than it was three years ago when it welcomed Blinken's predecessor, Mike Pompeo.

It also remains -- in Pompeo's understated coining -- a region that sees "a lot of activity -- Chinese activity, Russian activity."

But for the Central Asian states, does Blinken's visit one year since Russia's invasion offer anything other than complications, as suspicious allies watch from the sidelines?

In a press briefing ahead of Blinken's visit, Assistant Secretary of State for South Central Asia Donald Lu acknowledged "pressure that the economies and societies of this part of the world are under" -- something to which Western-led sanctions against Central Asia's major trade partner Russia have undoubtedly added.

"Our main goal is to show that the United States is a reliable partner, and we see the difficulties that these economies are facing," said Lu, listing "high food prices, high fuel prices, high unemployment, difficulty in exporting their goods, slow post-COVID recovery, and a large influx of migrants from Russia" fleeing conscription as key challenges.

But Lu also indicated that observance of the sanctions would be part of Blinken's conversations in the region.

"There is real progress that we have seen as a result of these sanctions in decoupling aspects of the Central Asian economy from Russia. And we're going to continue to encourage Central Asian republics along this direction," Lu told reporters on February 24.

'The Same Old Fear Of Russia'

Central Asia's place on the geopolitical map was reinforced by a vote at the United Nations on the eve of the February 24 anniversary of the invasion that called for an immediate end to Russia's war and the removal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory.

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan were among just 32 countries that abstained from voting on the resolution that passed with 141 countries voting in favor and seven countries -- including Belarus and Russia -- voting against.

Turkmenistan, recognized as a neutral country, did not vote at all.

Two days after the vote, the Kazakh Foreign Ministry described as "worthy of support" a position paper on Ukraine published by Moscow's partner, Beijing, that U.S. President Joe Biden had earlier doubted "would be beneficial to anyone except Russia" if it was implemented.

Although China's document paid lip service to the territorial integrity of all states, it refrained from criticism of Russia and advocated the end of Western-led sanctions against its ally.

Kazakhstan has also criticized sanctions independently, while Astana's pledge to nevertheless uphold them has seen several Russian politicians and public figures shower its leadership with contempt and -- in some cases -- threats of a Ukraine-style invasion.

"When we talk about the neutral position of Central Asian countries, it is not really neutrality but just the same old fear of Russia," said Anvar Nozirov, an analyst based in Tashkent, the Uzbek capital.

Yet Nozirov argued that Washington can still play a necessary role in the region despite Moscow and Beijing's dominance.

"There are many problems in the region that are only intensifying, whether it is climate change, water shortages, energy shortages and, of course, Afghanistan under the Taliban again," Nozirov said, calling the withdrawal of coalition forces from the country that borders Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan "disastrous."

"Russia has never fully solved these problems, and China's solutions are mostly limited to its business interests. Central Asia is still isolated in many ways, and the war launched by Russia has only made new problems for citizens of our countries," Nozirov said.

A Useful Format?

Blinken is scheduled to hold talks with Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev prior to his meeting with the five countries' foreign ministers in a 5+1 format and will subsequently travel to Uzbekistan for meetings with the leadership there before heading to India -- another abstainer on the vote at the UN.

In doing so, Blinken will visit the region's two biggest states, where reform narratives have been challenged by decidedly undemocratic facts on the ground.

In Kazakhstan, foreign missions including Washington have called for fair and transparent investigations into violence that left at least 238 people dead at the beginning of 2022, yet only a handful of servicemen were convicted of abuses perpetrated during the unrest, while hundreds of protesters were thrown in jail.

Toqaev has proclaimed a "new Kazakhstan" in the wake of the violence that saw the influence of his long-reigning predecessor, Nursultan Nazarbaev, and his family, seriously diminished -- and Kazakh political analyst Gaziz Abishev told RFE/RL he believes some of Toqaev's moves are promising.

"Post-authoritarian transformations are always difficult, but I believe that in many ways the situation is better than under Nazarbaev," said Abishev, citing the swell of opposition politicians planning to compete as candidates for parliament in elections due next month thanks to changes in the electoral laws.

On the eve of Blinken's visit, however, several would-be candidates were complaining of being excluded from the vote over errors in their tax declarations, and Kazakhstan has also witnessed attacks on critical journalists in recent weeks.

When Pompeo traveled to Tashkent in 2020, Uzbekistan had just been crowned the Economist magazine's "country of the year" for the reforms pushed through by President Shavkat Mirziyoev, who came to power in 2016 after the death of the isolationist hard-liner that he served under as prime minister, Islam Karimov.

But last year government troops crushed protests in the autonomous region of Karakalpakstan where now-scrapped plans to change the territory's constitutional status set in motion events that left 21 people dead, according to an official toll.

Raising the issue of rights in Central Asia has often proved tricky territory for Washington.

Nor have the region's countries always welcomed U.S. officials decrying their strategic partners' abuses.

Pompeo made Chinas massive repression in Beijings Central Asia-neighboring, Muslim-majority Xinjiang Province a key theme of his visit, triggering a furious Chinese response.

He also got a polite reprimand from Uzbekistan's then-foreign minister, Abdulaziz Komilov, who stated his country's desire to avoid "unfavorable political consequences in relation to competition between large powers in our region."

Although Blinken is making his first visit to Central Asia, he has met his Central Asian counterparts in the past, most recently at the United Nations in New York in September.

The United States is one of several countries to pursue "5+1" meetings with the states of Central Asia.

Last year, Tajikistan's veteran autocratic leader, Emomali Rahmon, suggested he was growing weary of the format when he upbraided Russian President Vladimir Putin in a remarkable diatribe during a meeting between the Russian leader and his five Central Asian counterparts.

"America plus Central Asia, South Korea plus Central Asia, Japan plus Central Asia. Soon there will probably be Pakistan plus Central Asia," Rahmon complained.

But Abishev, the commentator, maintained that the format had some benefits, mostly due to its potential to foster integration beyond the terms of countries that have typically wielded power in the region.

"I think it is good for our sovereignty and independence, because firstly it brings the countries of the region together. One by one, a country like Russia could divide or destroy us, but if we are united it will be much harder," Abishev said.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this article said that China voted against the UN resolution calling on Russia to leave Ukraine, when in fact it abstained.
Welcome back to The Farda Briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter that tracks the key issues in Iran and explains why they matter. To subscribe, click here. www.rferl.org/a/31793259.html



I'm RFE/RL correspondent Golnaz Esfandiari. Here's what I've been following during the past week and what I'm watching for in the days ahead.

The Big Issue

Iran appears to be making headway toward renewing official ties with Saudi Arabia and Persian Gulf states that in some cases have been publicly avoiding Tehran for decades.

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia held talks in Beijing on April 6 in a significant step toward restoring diplomatic relations, which were cut in 2016 after protesters attacked Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran following Riyadhs execution of prominent Saudi Shi'ite cleric Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr.

Iran also accepted an invitation from Saudi King Salman for President Ebrahim Raisi to visit Riyadh, while Tehran said it will send a similar invitation to the Saudi king. Meanwhile, a Saudi delegation traveled to Iran on April 9 to discuss the reopening of the embassy in Tehran and a consulate in Mashhad. The trip came as Iranian media reported on April 8 that a street sign near the Saudi consulate in Mashhad provocatively named after Sheikh al-Nimr had been quietly removed. An Iranian delegation also arrived in Saudi Arabia on April 12 to pave the way for the reopening of Iranian diplomatic missions there.

Iran is meanwhile taking steps to improve ties with other countries in the region, naming an ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) and working to decrease tensions with Egypt and Bahrain.

Why It Matters: Iran and Saudi Arabia appear to be pursuing implementation of last months Chinese-brokered agreement, possibly clearing the way for Tehran to de-escalate tensions with other countries that followed Riyadhs lead on a rupture seven years ago.



What's Next: Tehran and Riyadh could move surprisingly swiftly toward normalization, but its no sure thing. Abdolrasool Divsallar, a visiting professor at the Catholic University of Milan (UCSC), told me that the political environment between the two regional rivals could encourage the start of military and security talks within months.

But Divsallar also warned that opponents at home and abroad could still undermine the agreement. Hard-liners in Iran may act as a spoiler rather than as a supporter of the deal, he said, adding that Israel could do the same.

The regional tensions between Israel and Iran, on one side, andbetween Iran, Saudi [Arabia] and the United States, on the other side, are two dynamics that make this process very fragile, he said.

Divsallar also suggested that any normalization between Iran and countries with less appetite for a quick restoration of ties, for instance Bahrain, could take longer.

They feel more secure under the current status quo rather than immediately normalizing their ties with the Islamic republic and losing their leverage, he said, adding, They may wait to see a major change of policies.

Stories You Might Have Missed

Irans civil aviation sector has for years been under Western sanctions that prevent it from purchasing new aircraft or spare parts for repairs. Now, Russia's oldest airline, Aeroflot, has sent one of its passenger planes to Iran for repairs for the first time ever. Aeroflot reportedly ran into obstacles at home stemming from Western sanctions over Russias ongoing, unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. The RBK media group cited an Aeroflot representative and sources close to the company on April 11 as saying that an Airbus A330-300 had been sent to Tehran on April 5 to be repaired by specialists from Iran's Mahan Air.

Iranian pensioners staged protests in more than a dozen cities across Iran, demanding higher pensions amid soaring prices. Protests were reported on April 9 in Tehran, Ahvaz, Mashhad, Isfahan, Arak, Qom, Shush, Tabriz, and several other cities where retirees complained of poor living conditions and chanted anti-government slogans. Labor protests in Iran have swelled as the economy deteriorates following years of mismanagement compounded by crippling U.S. sanctions.

What We're Watching

Prominent Iranian female religious scholar Sedigheh Vasmaghi has challenged Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei over the Islamic republics mandatory hijab law.

In a letter published online, Vasmaghi asked about the reasoning behind Irans strict model for womens dress and said the Koran does not specify the need for women to cover their hair in public.

There is no evidence to show that during the time of the Prophet Muhammad women were harassed and punished for not covering their hair or even their bodies, Vasmaghi, who has published several books on Islamic jurisprudence, wrote.

Why It Matters: Vasmaghis letter is significant for its timing -- just days after Khamenei asserted that the removal of the hijab in public was religiously banned. But it is also important because it comes from a religious woman who wears the veil while opposing the mandatory hijab, which is seemingly being defied by a growing number of women.

That's all from me for now. Don't forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you have.

Until next time,

Golnaz Esfandiari

If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every Wednesday.
European Union member states have issued a formal diplomatic warning to Georgia's leaders over the deteriorating health of jailed former President Mikheil Saakashvili.

All 27 EU member states agreed to the diplomatic demarche presented to the Georgian justice minister, EU Ambassador to Georgia Pawel Herczynski told journalists on February 27.

"We are very concerned about reports of his deteriorating health," Herczynski said.

Giorgi Volski, first vice speaker of the parliament, responded to the demarche, suggesting EU member states address Saakashvili's entourage over a strategy that he said is "keeping Saakashvili in such a state, taking Saakashvili hostage, and speculating about his health."

This "reality" should be seriously discussed by the European Union, its representatives, and MPs, Volski said.

Volski also questioned what influence the demarche would have on the Georgian justice system, which "sees the actual situation and makes appropriate decisions," adding that "the position of the court is objective, fair, and correct."

The 55-year-old Saakashvili last week said there was a widening plot by officials and others to "murder" him and appealed for his country and the world to prevent "this criminal corporation" from carrying out "their evil intentions."

Saakashvili, who was Georgias president from 2004 to 2013, is serving a six-year sentence for abuse of power that he and supporters call politically motivated. He has been in hospital for several months after refusing food to protest his detention.

Georgian officials have consistently raised doubts about how critical his health situation is.

Judge Giorgi Arevadze last week rejected Saakashvili's request to suspend his sentence, a move Saakashvili called a "death sentence" handed to him by his political opponents.

"We are in the final stages of my murder special operation and it involves 'parliamentarians,' 'journalists' [and] now the clinic," Saakashvili said on Facebook on February 22. "I appeal to Georgia and the world, Do not allow this criminal corporation to carry out their evil intentions."

Giorgi Grigolia, a member of a council of doctors set up by Georgia's rights ombudsman, said separately on February 27 that Saakashvili, who once weighed 115 kilograms, had lost more than 50 kilograms since his imprisonment in 2021 and that he "isn't receiving proper medical treatment."

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has said that Poland is ready to receive Saakashvili, who holds Ukrainian citizenship, for treatment. According to media reports, Poland's proposal was supported by all EU countries except Hungary, but European diplomats said they were doing everything to convince Budapest to change its position.

Georgian lawmakers have also appealed to President Salome Zurabishvili to pardon Saakashvili.

With reporting by AFP
A great pleasure to witness China's achievements: Tajik student

People's Daily Online) 10:19, February 27, 2023

The ink dripped on Xuan paper, and each stroke formed elegant Chinese characters. The writer is Nozimov Sharifkhuja, an international student from Tajikistan. His Chinese name is Hou Zimo.

Come to China to fulfill a dream

Sharifkhuja has fancied Chinese movies and culture since childhood. His father is also a huge fan of China. Ahead of his graduation from high school, Sharifkhujas father suggested that he learn Chinese, and go to China in the future. Having studied Chinese for two years in Tajikistan, Sharifkhuja finally came to China to pursue his dream.

After five years in China, the Chinese expert is currently a master's student of international education in the Chinese language at Nankai University. Chinese language and calligraphy have become a part of his life.

Sharifkhuja is amazed by China's development in the past five years. "China has scored remarkable achievements in science and technology, aerospace in particular, over recent years. It is a great pleasure for me to witness these achievements." China's online shopping prosperity impresses him the most. "My country has no online shopping. I have kept telling my friends that there is only what you can't think of in China, but (almost) nothing you can't purchase online."

Nozimov Sharifkhuja browses through books at the library of Nankai University. (Photo provided by the interviewee).

China's rapid growth a far-reaching influence on other countries

Fluent Chinese makes it easier for Sharifkhuja to understand China and its political system. He carefully studied the report of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. China's poverty alleviation efforts and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) were the topics he cared about the most.

"Many regions in Tajikistan also suffer from issues caused by poverty. In the report, I saw a number. In ten years, a total of 832 impoverished counties have been lifted out of poverty, which is very beneficial for China's economic development," he said.

The rapid growth of China has a far-reaching impact on other countries, Sharifkhuja said. Many Chinese companies are expanding their businesses outside of China, and are creating jobs in countries that are still developing, such as mine."

Tajikistan is the first country in the world to have signed a memorandum with China on building the Silk Road Economic Belt, and Sharifkhuja is also an unswerving supporter of BRI. "After Chinese companies entered Tajikistan, more people in my country have better opportunities to land a job. Many of my friends now work in Chinese companies," he said, adding that Chinese enterprises constructed roads, bridges, and power plants in Tajikistan. More Tajik people now get a chance to study in China.

It is also consistent with Sharifkhujas understanding of "a community with a shared future for mankind." "While insisting on their own independence, each country should also help each other economically, accept each other culturally, and confront common problems such as environmental changes together." He said, "We should tackle problems, make progress, and develop together. I think in the next few years, more countries will join the initiative and achieve better development hand in hand."

A student at Nankai University, Sharifkhuja also stands up for "Continuing to give high priority to the development of education, build China's self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and rely on talent to pioneer and to propel development," delivered by the report.

"Dedication to public interests, acquisition of all-round capability and aspiration for progress with each passing day" being its motto, Nankai University provides students with an excellent learning environment, cultural activities, and social practice opportunities. It is devoted to cultivating more high-quality talent. "Whether you are a Chinese student or from a foreign country, Nankai University has always encouraged us to become talents," said Sharifkhuja.

Nozimov Sharifkhuja shows his calligraphy work of "Hou Zimo," his Chinese name. (Photo provided by the interviewee).

Aspiring to be a cultural ambassador

In his first calligraphy class in Tajikstan, Sharifkhujas teacher told him that calligraphy writing needs to hold brushes steadily and sit upright. "You write calligraphy the same way you behave." He was told that gentlemen needs to act appropriately, humble, and confident, but not too arrogant. "To write with brushes is an amazing experience. Once the work is completed, I can feel the spirit of Chinese culture. Every stroke of Chinese characters is communicating with me," Sharifkhuja added.

The name "Hou Zimo" also comes from calligraphy. His calligraphy teacher said that in Chinese, "Zi" means "human beings," and "Mo," literally "ink," refers to "culture." His teacher hopes that he will become a well-educated person.

Besides calligraphy, the Tajik youth also enjoys traditional Chinese music and pop music, and even taught himself the cucurbit flute and bamboo flute. Sharifkhuja is willing to share his experience in China with his family and friends, while introducing Tajik culture to his Chinese pals.

Ready to graduate, Sharifkhuja is planning for the future. Having stayed in China for many years, he is reluctant to leave. He hopes to apply for a doctoral program or to work in the embassy, becoming a cultural bridge between the two countries. Meanwhile, he also plans on returning home as a Chinese teacher, presenting his compatriots with a view of the real China, and using the skills he acquired in China to improve the education of his motherland. "This is also my responsibility," he added.

However, no matter what Sharifkhuja chooses, his future will be closely related to the Chinese. "My love for Chinese has surpassed simply learning itself," he said.

(Web editor: Zhang Wenjie, Wu Chengliang)
Among some Maya peoples, there is folklore about the alux, a miniature mystical sprite who lives in forests, caves, and fields. Now, Mexican President President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has posted a photo to his social media accounts that any reasonable person can only recognize as indisputable proof that the alux is anything by a myth! From The Telegraph:

He said the photo had been taken three days earlier by an engineer on the construction site of a new railway line known as the Tren Maya, which will connect tourist destinations, including ancient Mayan sites.

"It appears to be an alux," the Leftist friend of Jeremy Corbyn wrote, adding that "everything is mystical".

His far-fetched claim came as thousands took to the streets of Mexico City over the weekend to protest against an alleged presidential power grab.

However, social media users were quick to point out that the photo appeared to have been circulating online in various guises for at least two years. Many accused the president of spreading fake news. The original source of the image is unclear.
4 A medic pushes a stretcher with a wounded soldier.



Analysts say that capturing Bakhmut, which has been almost completely destroyed by fighting, would have little strategic significance for Russia, but that Moscow would seek to attach symbolic significance to it in an effort to boost soldiers' morale.
YEREVAN -- Officials in Baku say Azerbaijani athletes will boycott the European Weightlifting Championships in the Armenian capital of Yerevan and return home after an Azerbaijani flag was set afire by an apparent intruder at an opening ceremony late on April 14.

Armenian police briefly detained a person who ran onto the stage during the event and snatched the Azerbaijani flag from a lady performing in the opening ceremony before setting it ablaze.

No Azerbaijani athletes or delegation members were reportedly present in the hall at the time of the incident.

Over 300 athletes from 40 countries are competing in the European Weightlifting Championships in Yerevan.

No charges were brought immediately against the intruder, whom the Armenian police identified as Aram Nikolian, a professional designer. He was set free by police several hours after his detention, officials said.

Azerbaijans Ministry of Youth and Sports and National Olympic Committee described the incident as a "barbaric act," saying it was a manifestation of :ethnic hatred, racism, xenophobia, and animosity toward Azerbaijanis" in Armenia and was "contrary to the noble principles and goals of sports."

Declaring that under such conditions the safety of Azerbaijani athletes was not ensured and their normal participation in the championships was impossible, the Azerbaijani authorities announced their decision that their athletes will return home.

The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry also condemned the incident, demanding those responsible be punished.

"It is worrying that no security measures were taken by organizers against such hate action. Perpetrators should be accordingly punished, Aykhan Hajizade, a spokesman for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, wrote on Twitter.

Armenias Sports Ministry countered by saying that all security measures had been put in place by the Armenian side as required and there were no security risks for the Azerbaijani athletes.

It stressed that the flag burning incident at the opening ceremony was settled quickly and had nothing to do with the general security of Azerbaijani athletes and ensuring of their normal participation in the competitions.

"The Republic of Armenia remains committed to fulfilling its obligations to the International Weightlifting Federation and reaffirms its readiness to hold the 2023 European Championships at a high level," Armenia's Sports Ministry said in a statement.

Armenia and Azerbaijan have been locked in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for years. Some 30,000 people were killed in a war in the early 1990s that left ethnic Armenians in control of the breakaway region and seven adjacent districts of Azerbaijan proper. Another 7,000 died 7,000 when the simmering conflict reignited in 2020.

Nagorno-Karabakh is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan.
Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine one year ago, the three Baltic nations -- Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia -- have been among the loudest nations worldwide to condemn Moscows unprovoked aggression and among the first to provide Kyiv with support.

Egils Levits, the president of Latvia, was the first world leader to remain in Kyiv overnight in April last year, when others were wary of traveling to Ukraine during the initial phase of the Russian aggression.



Levits, 67, spoke with RFE/RLS Georgian Service on the sidelines of the recent Munich Security Conference, at which Russias invasion of Ukraine dominated discussions.



Levits argued for a war crimes tribunal to be established as quickly as possible and said that Ukraines path to the EU is inevitable, although it will probably be rocky. He also said the West was caught off guard, in part, due to illusions it had of post-Cold War Russia.



RFE/RL: My research tells me you were the first Western leader who spent a night in Kyiv after the war. And I suspect it was not because you were late for the train. Was that a symbolic gesture?



Egils Levits: Yes. I accepted it immediately, this proposal from the Ukrainian side. Because it was obviously important for the Ukrainians.



RFE/RL: As a former judge [at the European Court of Human Rights], you are calling for establishing a special tribunal to punish Russia for its alleged war crimes in Ukraine. Would any such tribunal be complete if President Vladimir Putin is not in the dock, looking defeated?

The Tavberidze Interviews Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Vazha Tavberidze of RFE/RL's Georgian Service has been interviewing diplomats, military experts, and academics who hold a wide spectrum of opinions about the war's course, causes, and effects. To read all of his interviews, click here.

Levits: Such a tribunal can be established. We should not wait [for] when Russia is defeated or when Putin is [out of power].

It is possible to establish, and I would like to say [it would be] rather timely, because not all criminals are present in person at tribunals.

For example, in Yugoslavia, some criminals were tried in absentia; the same can be done with this. The most important thing is not that the person is sitting at the trial as such; it is [more important] that we [expose] and [examine] this machinery of war, of aggression, in order to [make it clear] how such a war was possible, to [show] to the public, by judicial means.

In other cases, too -- in Rwanda, Sierra Leone or Liberia -- not all the criminals were really sitting there.

It is much more important to [make it clear to] society that such kind of behavior is not acceptable. And I think this principle is more important than to have everyone on the bench.



RFE/RL: This war has given you, your Baltic neighbors -- Poland and the like -- ample reason to tell the rest of the West, We told you so, for what you describe was the enormous mistake and naivety of moving purposefully towards dependence on Russia, despite our warnings. How did this naivety, in your opinion, come about? What gave rise to it?



Levits: This naivety was born because, after the Cold War, the West has not paid enough attention to the internal processes in Russia. Had they looked more closely at what happened to Russia and better analyzed [it], then, of course, they would have discovered that it was an illusion that they had, the dream of a democratic Russia. And I think this is the reason. It was negligence, I would say.



RFE/RL: And why did they not listen to you? Because youve been warning them.



Levits: Weve been warning them, yes. But, of course, it is not a comfortable [topic]. This dream was more comfortable than to see the bitter reality.



RFE/RL: One such warning could perhaps have been the war in Georgia in 2008?



Levits: Of course, the aggression started in 2008 in Georgia, and the Baltic states reacted immediately. Our presidents went to Tbilisi at that time because we know what that means, when Russia attacks a country. But the reaction from the rest of Europe was relatively weak, and this led Russians to conclude, Oh, the West, Western countries, the West is weak. So, we can go further.

The next step was Crimea in 2014. Also, there was a weak reaction. And then of course, consequently, from the Russian point of view, 2022, the full-scale attack. Therefore, we, the West should draw the right conclusions, and now I am glad that it seems that the West has really concluded what is Russias character, what is Russia, and have developed a strategy how to deal with it.

RFE/RL: Another cause you are championing is to freeze Russian assets and give them to Ukraine, to rebuild Ukraine. You say its difficult but doable. If the West has really woken up, as you say, why hasnt it happened yet?



Levits: The building, or developing, of political will on [opposing] Russia is a continuing process. If we see how the West now is [viewing] Russia today, [compared to] one year ago or maybe half a year ago, then there is some progress. And this progress is in one direction. The political will has become stronger to defend ourselves and also to hold Russia accountable.



RFE/RL: Do you think we'll get to that point?



Levits: I think there is a growing will to do it. So, we have not reached the point yet. But before that point is reached, there are discussions about the dynamics taking place now.



RFE/RL: Weve both heard President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announce, in no uncertain terms, that Ukraine must -- not even should -- must be in NATO, must be in the EU. And I know you share that sentiment. My question to you is: When do you see that happening?

I see, really, Ukraine as a member state of NATO, because...it will [have] one of the best armies in the world and it will be a real contribution to the strength of NATO."

Levits: For this, there are certain reforms [that Kyiv must make]. And these reforms take time. For example, for Latvia, we were involved in this process for seven years from the beginning of [the EU membership process of] accession. It could be accelerated. However, that might be more difficult during a period of war.

So, I cannot say when, but I can say that there is serious will from all member states that it should be as soon as possible.

Of course, Ukraine is now concentrating on the war, but at the same time they are already doing now the reforms. So, I would say it would not be very long, but not in the next year.



RFE/RL: What about NATO? I think we can conclude that Ukraine now has one of the best armies in the world.



Levits: I think this discussion will be renewed after the war. I see, really, Ukraine as a member state of NATO, because, as you rightly said, it will [have] one of the best armies in the world, and it will be a real contribution to the strength of NATO.



RFE/RL: Let me ask also about Moldova and Georgia. They both have aspirations to join the European Union, and one of them at least has aspirations for NATO, and Moldova is growing a bit skeptical about its own neutrality. How do you see their European futures?



Levits: Moldova is now under pressure from Russia, and also I'd say that the current government is willing to do all the necessary steps, but they need help. Moldova has a big supporter, its Romania, and Romania is really helping Moldova a lot.

So, I would say that more or less in the same [time frame for possible EU accession] as Ukraine, Moldova could also be ready. Georgia has not yet received candidate country status. My advice would be to start the reforms now because its clear what should be done, and to harmonize all legislation to European legislation



RFE/RL: Do you see the government in Georgia, similarly to Moldova, willing to make [necessary] steps and dedicate itself to reforms?



Levits: I would only say that, according to the statements of the government, the government is willing [to do so].

RFE/RL: You were an ambassador to Hungary, so I would like to quiz you on Prime Minister Viktor Orban, his government, and way of rule. When asked whose side he was on in this war, he replied: On the side of Hungary. Later on, this was echoed back in my own country, where our leadership also said they were on Georgias side. Let me ask you to decipher what that means. What is the Hungarian way -- being on the side of Hungary, or of Georgia, for that matter, in the war between Russia and Ukraine? Dont you think its a worthwhile question?



Levits: Yes. No, I'm looking for a diplomatic answer. So, it is up to Hungary to define its interests, but it is a member state of NATO, a member state of the European Union, and national interests should be aligned with its common interests.



RFE/RL: What do you think is Orbans motivation? For example, you dont say: I am on the side of Latvia in this war, because its obvious that being on Ukraines side means being on Latvias side as well. Why is this different?



Levits: The motivation is to be somehow neutral, but neutrality is impossible in this case, because we have a case where there is a clear aggressor and a clear victim. Neutrality in such a case means to be on the side of the aggressor.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Opposition supporters and ordinary people in several cities across Russia on February 27 marked eight years since opposition leader Boris Nemtsov's assassination, amid an increased police presence.

People gathered to commemorate Nemtsov in Moscow, Kazan, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Perm, and Barnaul.

A woman was detained by police in Moscow while paying tribute to him at a makeshift memorial where the Russian politician was killed, Novaya gazeta reported.

Footage shows the woman trying to lay a piece of paper with "Fight!" written on it at the memorial, according to the newspaper. The police then forced the woman to remove the paper from the memorial before taking her away.

Nemtsov, a former deputy prime minister who was once regarded as a potential successor to President Boris Yeltsin, was a staunch critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In Moscow, people laid flowers on the Bolshoi Moskvoretsky Bridge -- in view of the Kremlin -- where Nemtsov was shot dead on February 27, 2015. Police officers stopped some passersby, but no arrests were made.

In Novosibirsk, people brought flowers for a second day in a row to the monument to the victims of political repression, where a memorial dedicated to Nemtsov was organized on February 26.

In Yekaterinburg, a memorial watch was held, with people bringing flowers after authorities banned portraits, posters, and candles and beefed up the presence of security forces.

In Perm, commemorations were held on February 26 in the form of a community work day at the local memorial to the victims of political repression after authorities twice refused to allow a rally. Participants laid flowers but did not carry placards or voice any political demands. The police monitored the event and filmed it, according to local activist Mikhail Kasimov.

In Barnaul, a commemoration was held by the local branch of the opposition Yabloko party in Freedom Square near the monument to the victims of political repression. The event was approved by the mayor's office, but the police fenced off the perimeter in advance and installed metal detectors at the entrance.



In 2017, a court sentenced a former deputy commander of the Chechen Sever battalion, Zaur Dadayev, to 20 years in prison for killing Nemtsov. Four other Chechens were given terms of between 11 and 19 years in prison after being convicted of involvement.

However, the Russian authorities have failed to determine who ordered it.

The U.S. State Department said in a statement on February 27 that Nemtsov has continued to be an inspiration for other pro-democracy activists such as Aleksei Navalny and Vladimir Kara-Murza, who have both been imprisoned by Putin's government.

"Today, as we pay homage to Boris Nemtsov and his legacy, we also recognize those brave Russians who continue to work in the face of severe repression for a better future for their country," the statement said.
At a time when gas-rich Turkmenistan could be pushing to diversify its export paths, it is instead allowing itself to be pulled back into Moscows energy orbit, experts say.

Russia is no longer the top buyer of natural gas from Turkmenistan, a country that is believed to depend on the fuel for three-quarters of its state revenues.



The main purchaser is China, which displaced Russia more than a decade ago and currently imports around four times as much gas from Turkmenistan as Russia does.



But if Beijing has traditionally been businesslike in its energy-trade relationship with Ashgabat, Moscows relations are more likely to involve political calculations.



This is especially the case as the Kremlin looks to forge new gas alliances after Europe made dramatic cuts in its imports of Russian gas amid the fallout of Moscows yearlong invasion of Ukraine.



Looking at the bigger picture, Turkmenistan is perhaps the only non-Russian source of natural gas that has the potential to make the European Unions energy transition more efficient and less expensive, Annette Bohr, an international affairs expert at Chatham House, told RFE/RL.



But Ashgabat is clearly coming down on the side of Russia and spurning opportunities to move its gas in a Western direction. It has chosen to move towards its authoritarian brothers-in-arms, Russia and Iran -- a policy that serves to safeguard its need for isolation, said Bohr.

Miller Time

Gazprom chief Aleksei Millers February 15 visit to Ashgabat, where he met with both President Serdar Berdymukhammedov and Turkmenistans newly crowned Leader of the Nation, Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, was his second in the last six months.



Russia has upped imports of natural gas from Turkmenistan from a low of zero in 2016 to around 10 billion cubic meters (bcm) per year in 2021, even if they are still a fraction of their peak of over 40 bcm in the mid-2000s, when Moscow used them to free up lucrative exports to Europe.

There were no indications from the official releases on the meeting that further increases were on the agenda, however, with Russias energy giant only vaguely referring to talks on the course and prospects of cooperation in the gas sector.



But Millers visit increased speculation that Russia is looking to ensure Turkmenistan is an asset rather than an obstacle as Gazprom seeks to reassert its clout in international gas markets after Miller conceded that 2022 was a difficult year.



One Russian Telegram channel cited by RFE/RLs Turkmen Service as being close to the Kremlin said Millers headline message to Turkmenistan was that Russia would block any attempt to build a Trans-Caspian Pipeline (TCP) connecting Turkmenistan to Azerbaijan, a development that would free up Azerbaijani gas for exports to Europe.



In return, [Turkmenistan] was offered participation in gas supplies directly to Turkey through Iran, the channel, whose name translates as A Look At The East, said. By cooperating with the scheme, Turkmenistan will become a full member of the gas analogue of OPEC, which is being created by Russia and Iran and to which Qatar intends to join, it continued.



Gazprom did not respond to a request from RFE/RL for comment.



Piping large quantities of gas across the Caspian Sea has been a stated ambition of Turkmenistan for at least 25 years, although it was never without hitches, even when there was clear investor interest.



A political agreement on the status of the Caspian Sea involving all five littoral states and a bilateral deal between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan settling contradictory claims in the Caspian Sea were only reached in the last few years.



Even then, Iran and Russia were never keen on the idea and have insisted on the right to block the project on environmental grounds.

Moreover, while a functioning TCP might have been useful to Europe this winter, trends in the European energy market do not favor it, argued Laurent Ruseckas, executive director for the Finance & Capital Markets team at S&P Global Commodity Insights.



Among these are the expansion of European infrastructure related to liquefied natural gas (LNG), which the EU has been importing much more of amid its abandonment of Russian gas, and the EUs long-term commitment to transitioning to renewable energy, Ruseckas argued.



Theres real reluctance to commit to or finance big pipeline projects. In the medium-term, Europe will not need the gas. And then there is the question of who is going to want to build and pay for pipelines to serve a market that will be net zero by 2050, he added.

Heading South With Russian Help?

In December, Serdar Berdymukhammedov met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the western Turkmen city of Awaza, with Erdogan offering Ankaras backing for a pipeline connecting the two countries.



But Turkmenistan has told Western diplomats that it is not interested in downsized alternatives to the pipeline that would carry considerably less gas but might be less costly and quicker to build, said Bohr.



[Turkmenistan] prefers Europe to come along with money and a long-term contract for 30 bcm. This is something that is not going to happen, she said, noting that Ankara is growing weary of Ashgabats position on the topic.

Absent an outlet to ramp up exports to the West and looking to balance its sales north to Russia and east to China, Turkmenistan is heading a consortium for a pipeline that would send gas to India via Pakistan and Afghanistan called TAPI, a multibillion-dollar blueprint that has no known investor.



Russia has also expressed an interest in this project, though it has given no firm commitment.



Zamir Kabulov, the Russian envoy to Kabul, said in January that security concerns previously expressed over the project had lost some of their severity -- a likely reference to the Talibans assertion of full territorial control of Afghanistan.



Any involvement in the project on Moscows side would depend on the commercial approach, Kabulov said.



Ruseckas of S&P Global Commodity Insights told RFE/RL that his estimation of the projects chances of coming to fruition had gone from zero to a very low number, but not for the reasons mentioned by Kabulov.



I think for India and Pakistan, last year was a shock in terms of how expensive LNG spot prices became, he said. They would have loved to have had TAPI in place when LNG prices started to skyrocket.



But fundamental problems with the project, including transiting Afghanistan and reservations about the technical capacities of Turkmenistans state gas company Turkmengaz, have not changed, Ruseckas said.



As for investments from Moscow, Russia isnt exactly a country that has billions and billions of dollars to spend on a pipeline right now, he noted.



But the one enticement that Russia has reportedly offered Turkmenistan -- exports to third countries via Iran and its existing gas infrastructure -- would not significantly change Ashgabats regional energy profile.



John Roberts, an energy security specialist from the British-based research organization Methinks, told RFE/RLs Turkmen Service that the ceiling of what Turkmenistan could send to Turkey this way would be 5 bcm per year.



Even then, it is not clear whether Turkey would approve of the idea, with Ankara likely to balance opposition to the project from the European Union, Roberts said of the transit offer that Iranian energy officials have publicly endorsed.



But Russia does have leverage over Ashgabat, in that the last time it slashed gas imports from the country -- albeit during a nadir in global energy prices -- it caused Turkmenistan serious economic pain.



In a rare essay published by Turkmengaz in February 2015, right after Turkmenistan was forced into a sudden devaluation of its currency on the back of falling gas revenues, the company singled Russia out as an unreliable partner.



The text of that eyebrow-raising missive is no longer online.



But Bohr told RFE/RL that Turkmenistan would be wise not to put too much faith in Russias vision.



Russia is attempting a major reconfiguration of the gas market, and its isolation from the West has made it more dependent on Iran -- and this has repercussions for Turkmenistan, she said.



Moscow is looking to gain access in the future through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan to Iran, and from there to Pakistan and India. However, existing routes to Pakistan provide only small volumes, and there are huge infrastructural constraints and logistical and technical problems associated with these still very hazy ideas.
Russia is increasing the number of personnel in eastern Ukraine as it concentrates its efforts on conducting offensive actions in the region, the General Staff of the Ukrainian military said on February 27 as Ukrainian and Russian forces remained locked in fierce combat in the east and northeast.

"According to available information, up to 200 conscripts from Rostov region have been transferred to the temporarily occupied territory of Luhansk region," the General Staff said in its evening report.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's full-scale invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensives, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

The General Staff added that Russian air strikes during the day included 12 carried out by Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones and more than 55 attacks from rocket salvo systems.

"The threat of missile strikes remains high throughout the territory of Ukraine," the command said.

Earlier on February 27, two rescue workers were killed by Russian attacks in western Ukraine, local authorities said after the whole of Ukraine was under an air-raid alert for about an hour as Russian forces used the Iranian-made drones in the attack.

In the western city of Khmelnytskiy, a Russian drone attack killed a member of the rescue services, while a second one died later on February 27 after being wounded in the overnight shelling of the city, said Serhiy Hamaliy, head of the regional military administration.

The General Staff said earlier on February 27 its forces had shot down 11 of 14 drones overnight.

In Kyiv, the head of the capital's military administration, Serhiy Popko, said nine drones were destroyed and there were no immediate reports of casualties or damages.

Russian troops conducted 81 offensive operations against Ukrainian defenders in Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Shakhtarsk in the Donetsk region, and in Kupyansk, in Kharkhiv region, over the past 24 hours, the General Staff reported in its daily bulletin.

Russian forces have been relentlessly attacking Bakhmut since summer, but Moscow's redoubled its efforts to take the city at the start of this year, when they launched a fresh offensive.

Analysts say that capturing the city, which has been almost completely destroyed in the fighting, would bear little strategic significance for Russia but Moscow would attach a symbolic significance to seizing it to boost the troops' morale.

The General Staff on February 27 also reported "mass desertion" among the Russian conscripts sent out to the front line.



"Russian deputy commanders tasked with political work are actively attempting to prevent desertion among Russian servicemen," the General Staff said.

The information about mass desertion among Russian troops could not be independently confirmed.

With reporting by Reuters
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Russian forces have been trying to capture the city of Bakhmut since last summer. Ukrainian soldiers say Russian troops continue to launch daily attacks with small infantry units, despite suffering major losses. RFE/RL Ukrainian Service correspondent Maryan Kushnir reports from the frontline city.
The United Nations Human Rights Council has kicked off a new session in Geneva with sharp criticism of Russia for its full-scale invasion on Ukraine.

Speaking on February 27 at the opening of the session, which runs until April 4, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said nearly 100 million people were forced to flee conflict last year, a record number, and that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights "is under assault from all sides."

"The Russian invasion of Ukraine has triggered the most massive violations of human rights we are living today," the UN chief said. "It has unleashed widespread death, destruction, and displacement. Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure have caused many casualties and terrible suffering."

Coming just three days after the first anniversary of Moscow's unprovoked invasion of its neighbor, the session is expected to be dominated by calls from members for an extension to a UN investigation probing alleged war crimes in Ukraine.

Kyiv itself has said a special tribunal should be set up to pursue and prosecute the actions of Russia's leadership and make sure they are held accountable for any crimes committed in Ukraine.

Guterres said the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights already has documented dozens of cases of conflict-related sexual violence against men, women, and girls.

"And serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law against prisoners of war -- and hundreds of cases of enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions of civilians -- were also documented," he said.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, speaking at an event on the sidelines of the council's session, said Russia's alleged forced transfer of thousands of children from Ukraine is "probably the largest forced deportation in modern history."

UN Human Rights chief Volker Turk followed Guterres in addressing the main session, warning that Russia's "senseless" invasion of Ukraine was an example of how gains to human rights were being chipped away from ordinary global citizens.

"The old authoritarianism, with its brutal limits on freedoms writ large, and the suffocating straitjacket of patriarchy," said Volker, who took over the position in October. "The old destructive wars of aggression from a bygone era with worldwide consequences, as we have witnessed again in Europe with the senseless Russian invasion of Ukraine."

Russia has denied targeting civilians in the conflict and says it hasn't committed war crimes in Ukraine. It has also accused Ukraine several times of committing atrocities.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov is expected to address the council on March 2. Ryabkov's appearance at the UN forum is the first by a Russian official since the start of the war on February 24, 2022.

Moscow was suspended from the council in April but is still allowed take part as an observer.

The UN Human Rights Council, which aims to protect human rights worldwide, does not have legally binding powers. Its sessions highlight human rights issues and abuses, which often spark investigations that are essential for gathering evidence to prove that offenses are taking place.

The meeting is also expected to discuss the situation of Uyghurs and other Muslims in China.

The U.S. State Department has said that as many as 2 million Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and members of Xinjiang's other indigenous, mostly Muslim, ethnic groups have been taken to detention centers.

China denies that the facilities are internment camps, but people who have fled the province say members of these groups are undergoing "political indoctrination" at a network of facilities officially referred to as reeducation camps.

A UN report made public in 2022 found that the detention of Uyghurs and other Muslims by China may constitute crimes against humanity.

With reporting by Reuters
Back in December 2022, a walrus named Thor stopped by the town of Scarborough in the UK, presumably to catch a glimpse of the annual New Year's Fireworks celebration. But Thor got a little too excited about the prospect of seeing some colorful explosions in the sky, and began furiously wanking on the docks, causing the town to cancel their fferalestivities. What's that old saying? "Never interrupt a masturbating walrus?" Something like that.

Anyway, the local marine animal rescue league kept an eye on the grumpy gripper until he finished, and carried on his way, presumably to wank upon the ocean waves. But it seems that Thor has since resurfaced with his mighty Mjolnir in tow  this time landing on the shores of Breidalsvik in Iceland. From RUV, Iceland's national public service news network:

A walrus settled grumpily onto a floating pier in the town just after 9am, turning up its nose (or tusks?) at offers of frozen herring thrown its way by the harbour guard. The walrus is about three meters long with 30 cm long fangs. [] People passing by have interrupted him to take pictures, and when a drone was flown near, he reacted. When people get too close to him, he rises up, bellows, and emits a foul plume of steam.

Another Icelandic news outlet, Austurfrett, added (via Google Translate):

Walruses have been seen a little in the Austfjorur, but a few years ago at least 4 walruses appeared in Austurland. One of them appeared on June 17 in Reyarfjorur. He had a GPS device and was from the Faroe Islands. The nature center has only followed his travels. Skarpheinn says the remarkable thing about the walrus is that there was probably a walrus population in Iceland that the Icelanders exterminated. Walruses were hunted in many parts of the country because they were important in the fishing industry of the Vikings. "The closest walruses to us live in Svalbard and Greenland, but can also come from the Faroe Islands", says Skarpheinn.

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue, which had watched over the Walrus in Scarborough, confirmed by its markings that it was indeed the same wanking behemoth  although it seems he's not quite as aroused by Iceland as he was by England. At least, not yet, anyway.

New Year's Eve fireworks cancelled because of masturbating walrus [Robin Perrie / Herald Sun]

Foul grumpy walrus comes to town [Darren Adam / RUV]

Thor, the masturbating walrus, finds pleasure in new location: 'Delighted' [Brooke Kato / New York Post]
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made an unannounced visit to Kyiv on February 27, meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to commend him for his leadership in the face of Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion, the U.S. Treasury Department said.

"Ukraine's fight is our fight-- for our shared values of democracy, the right to self-determination, and for an international order that advances peace and prosperity," Yellen said, according to a text of Yellen's comments released by the Treasury Department.

Ukrainians have paid an "incredible price" on the "front lines of freedom," she said, telling Zelenskiy that the United States is proud to be Ukraine's largest bilateral donor.

"As you have said, our support is not 'charity.' It's an 'investment in global security and democracy,'" she said.

To date, the United States has provided close to $50 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including $14 billion in economic assistance, she said, adding that in the coming months the United States will disburse $8 billion more in economic support.

Yellen noted that Zelenskiy and his administration have taken steps to cut nonessential spending, root out corruption, and implement policies to stabilize the economy.

Yellen also met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and other key government officials, repeating U.S. assurances delivered by President Joe Biden a week ago when he was in the Ukrainian capital just days before the first anniversary of the start of the war.

"America will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes," Yellen told Shmyhal.

Shmyhal said the two discussed further U.S. sanctions on Russia aimed at weakening the Russian economy and its military. They also discussed putting frozen Russian assets to use in the recovery of Ukraine, he said.

Yellen told reporters in a phone briefing that there were still significant legal obstacles to fully seizing the estimated $300 billion in Russian central bank assets frozen by sanctions.

Yellen made the stop in Kyiv on her way back to Washington from a G20 finance leaders meeting in Bengaluru, India, where she urged her counterparts to boost economic aid to Ukraine and insisted that G20 ministers issue a strong condemnation of Russia's invasion.

During her stop in Kyiv, she also took part in a wreath-laying ceremony on St. Michael's Square, saying it was an honor to stand with the people of Ukraine in their fight for freedom.

"History will note the brutality of this war. It will also remember the heroes -- some sung and many more unsung -- who fought for human dignity, self-determination, and freedom in Ukraines darkest hour," she said.

With reporting by Reuters
Welcome to Wider Europe, RFE/RL's newsletter focusing on the key issues concerning the European Union, NATO, and other institutions and their relationships with the Western Balkans and Europe's Eastern neighborhoods. To subscribe, click here.

I'm RFE/RL Europe Editor Rikard Jozwiak, and this week I'm drilling down on two major issues: How both the EU and NATO are scrambling to get more ammunition to Ukraine and how justice might be served after the war has ended.

Brief #1: Getting Ammunition To Ukraine -- And Replenishing Western Stocks

What You Need To Know: Perhaps the most pressing issue for both the European Union and NATO in relation to the war in Ukraine right now is ammunition. First and foremost, how to supply Kyiv, especially after President Volodymyr Zelenskiy during his visit to Brussels earlier this month warned about the latest Russian offensive and the urgent need for more military deliveries.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov also recently specified to Western colleagues the need to get 1 million rounds of 155-millimeter ammunition urgently.

At the same time, there is also a need to replenish Western stockpiles, which are depleting quickly. Quite how fast remains classified; no one I have spoken to is willing to share, but they can confirm that, apart from the ammunition Ukraine is asking for, there is also a shortage of HIMARS missiles and ammunition for air-defense systems. And this has forced Brussels into action.

EU defense and foreign ministers will discuss the issue when they convene in Stockholm on March 7-8. By then, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell will come up with concrete proposals on how to scale up production both for Ukraine and domestic stockpiles that potentially can be green-lighted when EU leaders meet in Brussels at the end of March.

Deep Background: In a letter to EU capitals sent last week and seen by RFE/RL, Borrell noted with urgency that the future of Ukraine is at stake. We have committed to standing by Ukraine as much as needed. There is no time to waste.

He proposes utilizing the European Peace Facility (EPF), a financial tool used by EU member states outside the regular EU budget that has been tapped into to the tune of 3.6 billion euros ($3.8 billion) so far for arms deliveries to Kyiv. Another 2 billion euros ($2.1 billion) is available, but the question is: Is that enough? In a discussion paper produced by Estonia on the issue, it is noted that Russias average artillery use is 20,000-60,000 shells per day.

That means that Russia fires Europe's monthly artillery production rate (currently estimated at 20,000-25,000 shells per month) in a single day in Ukraine.

What is needed, according to Tallinn, is a sevenfold increase of European defense industry production -- to the tune of 4 billion euros ($4.2 billion) -- to meet Reznikovs demand in six months. Otherwise, it will take a full four years to produce the 1 million rounds asked for.

Drilling Down

Two of the main issues here are coordination and, by extension, joint procurement. NATO has already been doing this for years, but the EU will explore this as well, with the likely caveat that production must be in Europe. One of the main hurdles to overcome is that defense issues remain an exclusive competence of each and every EU capital, making it trickier to reach any sort of consensus.

NATO has also agreed to help Ukraine develop a smoother procurement system in line with Western demands. But more importantly, the EU, NATO, and Ukraine have started comparing notes on the issue. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, and Borrell met in Brussels last week and agreed that their respective procurement experts will put their heads together in the coming days.

When asked why it had taken nearly a year for this to happen, Kuleba responded that no one expected this war would last this long and added that it was apparent already last summer that production needed to be ramped up but that not enough has been done.

NATO officials admit privately that stockpiles were pretty low even before the war, largely because no one really foresaw a large-scale war on the continent again. They also note that much of the weapons production in the West has become very specific -- even artisanal -- instead of focusing on the big bulks of ammunition that are now clearly in demand.

What is needed now is a clear signal of demand from government to industry. This usually means long-term contracts, something that an increase in NATOs target for ammunition stockpiles could trigger.

But there are bottlenecks -- and not only bureaucratic red tape. And many of them are felt in many other industries around the globe. The worldwide shortage of semiconductors is one, but also the lack of raw materials to make ammunition shells, for example.

One quick-term fix will be to simply reach out to international partners, with Brazil, Israel, and South Korea being singled out as having deeper stockpiles at the moment.

Brief #2: Justice for Ukraine: Will Russian Officials Ever Face Trials?

What You Need To Know: One of the big issues surrounding the war in Ukraine is the question of justice and how it can be served once the fighting subsides. Ukrainian authorities have registered more than 71,000 alleged war crimes committed by the Russian Army since the war broke out -- a number that is likely to grow both as more Ukrainian territories potentially are liberated and the war intensifies.

Ukrainian and international prosecutors, however, are already busy collecting evidence, with the International Criminal Court (ICC) playing a lead role, having set up a so-called Joint Investigation Team with over 20 countries, mainly EU member states, assisting with various investigations.

An international center for the prosecution of the crime of aggression against Ukraine is also being established in The Hague this spring in cooperation with the ICC and Eurojust -- the European Union agency responsible for criminal justice cooperation -- housing a judicial database of all available evidence. The big question, however, is: Which court will all of this work eventually end up in?

Deep Background: The most obvious answer should be a court under the auspices of the United Nations. That route, however, is complicated by the fact that Russia is a permanent -- and thus veto-wielding -- member of the UNs Security Council.

This also complicates potential efforts to render justice via the ICC. Moscow did sign the Rome Statute, which governs the ICC, back in 2000, but never ratified the agreement to become a member. Russian President Vladimir Putin then approved the withdrawal of his country from the process of joining when the ICC ruled in 2016 that Russias actions in Crimea amounted to an "ongoing occupation."

The ICC can, however, still prosecute genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity committed on the territory of Ukraine because Kyiv submitted to its jurisdiction.

What the ICC cannot do is investigate and prosecute crimes of aggression committed by Russian nationals in Ukraine, as Russia is not a party to the ICC.

And the crime of aggression is crucial here.

The countries leading the process of justice for war crimes in Ukraine consider the crime of aggression to be the supreme international crime and the "source of all the other crimes committed in the country." It also limits criminal responsibility to individuals in leadership positions.

The conundrum is how to get these people in the dock. They all enjoy international immunity and could easily hide in countries that do not recognize the ICCs jurisdiction. Trials in absentia could, of course, be held even if they tend to be regarded as imperfect, especially by victims.

Drilling Down

With the ICC option unlikely, there could be a case of having trials in Ukraine, including at locations where Russian atrocities are alleged to have been committed. While perhaps morally satisfying, there is, of course, the same doubt as to whether Russian officials would be present at such trials, and it could be argued that the proceedings would not enjoy widespread international recognition.

Hybrid courts, consisting of both international and Ukrainian prosecutors, could be another option, but the presence of Ukrainian nationals in decisive positions could be an issue for many nations that would prefer a more neutral setup.

Instead, the option that is most likely to fly is the establishment of a special tribunal for the crime of aggression created through an agreement between Ukraine and the United Nations, but circumventing the UN Security Council and instead relying on the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

No specific number of votes is needed for this to happen, but EU officials I have spoken to on condition of anonymity say they could push for it as soon as it is clear there is enough support and that this might happen at the UNGA in September, when many world leaders gather in New York.

A special tribunal set up under the UNGA could potentially also solve the issue of lifting the immunity of high-ranking politicians. Such privileges, according to international law, dont represent a roadblock to the prosecution of senior leaders for serious crimes before international criminal courts and tribunals acting on behalf of the international community.

Can a court set up via a UNGA resolution truly represent the international community as a whole? That would probably be a question open to various legal and political interpretations, and it could ultimately come down to how many nations in the UN eventually vote in favor of such a court. One thing, however, is clear: There is no statute of limitation on crimes of aggression, so the international community can opt to play the "long game" in the quest for justice.

It is also worth noting that there is a precedent for the UNGA setting up a court. The Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, commonly known as the Khmer Rouge Tribunal, was established in 1997 after a UNGA resolution. It is worth noting, however, that it didnt prosecute crimes of aggression.

There is, of course, also the opportunity for both individuals and states to opt for civil lawsuits. The most obvious avenue here could be the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). But, after its exclusion from the Council of Europe last year, Russia ceased to be party to the European Convention on Human Rights on September 16, 2022. This limits applications against Russia and Russians to crimes committed up until that date.

Looking Ahead

The leaders of Kosovo and Serbia will come to Brussels on February 27 for their first meeting under the EU-facilitated dialogue this year. And there are indications that they might agree to a deal to further normalize bilateral relations.

There seems to be some movement on the NATO enlargement front after a number of recent setbacks. Finlands parliament will vote on its NATO membership bill on February 28, and the Swedish government has indicated that it will follow suit in early March. Hungarys parliament might soon ratify the Nordic pairs accession treaty, and even Turkey has opened up for more talks with Helsinki and Stockholm in order to give its thumbs-up to let them join the military alliance.

That's all for this week. Feel free to reach out to me on any of these issues on Twitter @RikardJozwiak or on e-mail at jozwiakr@rferl.org.



Until next time,



Rikard Jozwiak

If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every Monday.

And you can always reach us at newsletters@rferl.org.
The two partners who own a Buffalo-based accounting firm are waging a bitter fight over the company's future.

The fight has moved into a courtroom amid accusations of fraud and sexual misconduct by one and a claim that the matter is nothing more than a power grab from the other. And following an appearance before a judge last week, both sides were claiming victory.

Daniel Garigen, who holds a 40% stake in Dansa D'Arata & Soucia CPAs LLP, has accused managing partner Eric Soucia of financial and workplace misconduct in a lawsuit filed this month in state Supreme Court that seeks to force Soucia to give up control of the company.

Garigen's suit accuses Soucia of potentially costing the firm up to $750,000 because of mismanagement of the company's 401(k) account and, additionally, of harassment and other mistreatment of Dansa D'Arata employees.

"Mr. Soucia's behavior has been and continues to be erratic, unprofessional, fraudulent and possibly criminal," Garigen claims in his Feb. 2 complaint, filed by attorney Brian D. Gwitt. "It is undisputed that he is jeopardizing the continued operation of Dansa D'Arata."

Soucia and his attorney respond that Garigen is making false accusations against Soucia, who owns 60% of the firm, in a bid to take over the company that has grown since the pair bought out the founding partners in 2021.

The two men paid in excess of $4 million for the firm less than 14 months ago and already have received an offer that values Dansa D'Arata at $12 million, Soucia's attorney, Charles C. Ritter Jr., said in a court filing.

Further, Ritter wrote, Garigen improperly filed a public lawsuit instead of taking the matter to arbitration as required under the partnership agreement.

"The petition is little more than a narrative of sensationalized allegations drafted as a coercive tool to embarrass and discredit me as part of a scheme by Daniel Garigen, my minority partner, to seize control of the partnership," Soucia said in an affidavit.

The accounting and consulting firm was founded by partners Michael J. Dansa and Daniel J. D'Arata in 1999. The company is located downtown and has about 40 employees.

In a transaction that took effect Jan. 1, 2022, Dansa and D'Arata sold their partnership interests to Soucia and Garigen. Dansa and D'Arata remain as contract employees of the firm, which identifies them as partners on its website.

Soucia, who already was a named partner, took a controlling interest and invited Garigen to take part in the deal, Ritter wrote.

The accusations Garigen lodged against his partner date to 2018, according to Garigen's lawsuit, previously reported on by Buffalo Business First. Several center on how Soucia, as plan administrator, managed 401(k) retirement accounts for Dansa D'Arata partners and other employees.

First, Garigen claims, Soucia between 2018 and 2021 used partnership funds to make elective contributions to his personal 401(k) account, effectively stealing about $60,000 from the company.

Soucia did this by putting a disproportionate amount of firm profit-sharing contributions into the fund and, then, immediately withdrawing the money by making a false "hardship" claim, Garigen contends. Because Soucia controlled access to the 401(k) records, it allowed him to avoid detection for years, according to the lawsuit.

Garigen claims Soucia withdrew $350,000 in all from his 401(k) plan between 2019 and last year by using a questionable hardship argument. This "abuse" puts the firm at financial risk, the lawsuit claims, at a minimum for replacing the improperly withdrawn $350,000.

The 401(k) plan also could be disqualified, meaning employees may have to pay income taxes on money they contributed and, if so, they may bring litigation against the firm in response, Garigen argues.

Finally, Garigen claims, Dansa D'Arata will have to make significant corrective payments for 2019, 2020, 2021 and possibly 2022 to boost profit-sharing contributions to non-owner employees, bringing the total cost to the firm for the 401(k) issues to as much as $750,000.

Garigen also raises concerns about Soucia's personal and workplace conduct. In 2019, according to the lawsuit, Soucia was verbally disciplined and required to take sexual harassment training after three women at the firm filed complaints against him.

One woman, Garigen claims, accused a drunken Soucia of telling her, "I own you"; throwing pretzels and candy at her; and pulling at her hair and asking, "How does it feel not to be a CPA?"

A second woman said Soucia touched her hair inappropriately and told her, "Your hair was bothering me like that," the lawsuit states.

The two women left the firm shortly after these incidents, according to Garigen, as did a third woman who accused Soucia of making demeaning, disparaging remarks toward her.

In May 2022, Garigen claims, Soucia agreed to end an extramarital affair with a direct subordinate, but the affair continued through December, when Garigen confronted him again, and beyond. For example, Garigen claims, Soucia and this woman recently took a "romantic trip" and he used a company credit card to pay for it.

"It has had and continues to have a devastating effect on office morale," Garigen writes.

Finally, Garigen claims, Soucia failed to note that he has a pending driving while intoxicated charge when he filed to renew his CPA license with the state Education Department.

In all, Garigen asks the court to require Soucia to make Dansa D'Arata financially whole and to either remove Soucia from the partnership or dissolve the partnership.

In response, Soucia and his attorney said Garigen confronted Soucia on Jan. 30 with a draft petition that he threatened to file publicly if Soucia did not step down as managing partner.

"Garigen's petition and tactics are nothing more than an unlawful 'power grab,' " Soucia said in an affidavit.

Ritter stated Soucia declined to step down in response to this "extortion" but agreed to a "brief cooling down period," working at home for several days while attorneys discussed the matter.

Instead, Garigen on Feb. 2 filed the lawsuit.

Much of the purported misconduct took place before Garigen agreed to join Soucia in purchasing the firm.

Ritter said Garigen is only belatedly raising concerns about Soucia because the partners on Jan. 25 received a letter of intent to purchase 75% of Dansa D'Arata that values the firm at $12 million, triple the amount the partners paid 13 months earlier.

In his affidavit, Soucia said Garigen and other firm employees, including Garigen's wife, had access to 401(k) records and were fully aware of how the account was managed.

Ritter went on to blast Garigen's complaint as "nothing more than a well scripted, salacious tale devoid of supporting evidence and detached from the reality of how the partnership has operated."

Soucia denied wrongdoing. Ritter wrote that the accusations of misconduct toward other employees were "speculative" and "irrelevant" to the main issues at play.

On Tuesday, State Supreme Court Justice Emilio Colaiacovo granted Soucia's request to pause the lawsuit and send the matter to arbitration, the lawyers said.

"The decision validates Mr. Soucias position throughout these early proceedings that the petition never should have been filed," Ritter said in an email.

The judge also declined to temporarily remove Soucia as managing partner of the firm, as requested by Garigen.

Colaiacovo did issue several directives, including barring the use of company credit cards for personal expenses; prohibiting certain workplace conduct; and authorizing outside counsel to examine the 401(k) fund and make recommendations on its management. Ritter said the "limited" directives apply to all employees, and Soucia welcomes the independent review of the retirement account.

Gwitt declined comment on Tuesday's court action, but said his client wanted to offer reassurance that "these business issues between the partners are not impacting client services."
We continue the discussion of Federal Law No. 41-FZ On Precious Metals and Precious Stones dated March 26, 1998 (hereinafter referred to as 41-FZ) and amended to become Federal Law No. 607-FZ of December 29, 2022, and 71% of new norms of the amended law will enter into force on March 1, 2024 only.

New norm of law No.3 - Buying-up

In amended law 41-FZ that will come into force on March 1, 2024, an explanation of a buying-up notion has been included. Although the term buying-up has been used in original law 41-FZ since its adoption, the meaning of buying-up has not been disclosed in it all the past years, and its meaning was disclosed only 26 years after the law was adopted.

So, buying-up jewellery and other items made of precious metals and (or) precious stones (PMPS), scrap of such items from private persons is the acquisition of jewellery and other items made from precious metals and (or) precious stones - belonging to them on the right of ownership - under a sale and purchase contract from private persons who are not individual entrepreneurs, as well as the acquisition of scrap of such items, investment precious metals, cut and polished precious stone studs, certified cut and polished precious stones, including those obtained as a result of dismounting jewellery pieces and other items made of precious metals and (or) precious stones (separating cut and polished precious stone studs - and studs made of and non-precious materials - from precious metals).

The first thing that is surprising is that buying-up centres cannot purchase PMPS items under a sale and purchase contract from private persons who are individual entrepreneurs. Does this mean that if a certain indicative Ivan Ivanovich Ivanov running, for example, an individual entrepreneur making catering business wants to sell any of the PMPS items belonging to him via a buying-up centre, the buying-up centre should refuse him because he is an individual entrepreneur? According to common sense, it should not refuse, but according to the wording of the law, it should refuse.

Well, but if a certain Ivan Ivanovich Ivanov conducts his entrepreneurial activity, for example, as a jeweller or in the field of jewellery trading in specialized stores, has he - as a private person - the right to sell the PMPS items belonging to him via a buying-up centre in this case? Or he wont be able to do this because the property of a private person and an individual entrepreneur is inseparable... And how can a buying-up centre check whether a private person is an individual entrepreneur or not? Can it check using data-bases in Internet? Then, it will be necessary to check everyone who wants to sell a jewellery piece to a buying-up centre?

Probably, it was meant that the individual entrepreneur Ivanov Ivan Ivanovich, regardless of the field he works in, will be able to sell the PMPS item belonging to him under the sale and purchase contract via an agreement with the buying-up centre as a citizen, a private person, and not as IE (individual entrepreneur) Ivanov Ivan Ivanovich. But this does not follow from the wording of the law.

Presumably, by March 2024, some subordinate legislation will be issued to regulate this conflict of law. But the bad thing is that again, the wording of the law in this part is not with direct effect...

Probably, the definition of the buying-up notion was introduced into 41-FZ, first of all, to legitimize the actions of buying up centres as the acts of sale and purchase of PMPS items from private persons. The legal uncertainty of the buying-up notion also interfered with Federal Law No. 115-FZ On Counteracting the Legalization (Laundering) of Proceeds from Crime and the Financing of Terrorism dated August 7, 2001, which now will use a more general notion of the sale and purchase of PMPS items instead of the vague notion of buying-up the PMPS items.

At the same time, the definition of buying-up introduced into 41-FZ also defines another notion, dismounting a jewellery piece, that now becomes a legal notion; it means the separation of cut and polished precious stone studs and non-precious materials from precious metals. This definition was very important in the past when it was necessary to prove that a particular cut and polished precious stone owned by a private person was removed from a piece of jewellery, i.e., kept legally. Otherwise, article 191 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation for illegal possession of precious stones could be applied. But in amended law 41-FZ, the definition of dismounting is no longer relevant, but we will dwell on this in more detail below.

However, the most important rule of this new law about buying-up is, of course, the introduction of the right of private persons to sell not only jewellery pieces and scrap jewellery through buying-up centres, but also investment precious metals and cut and polished precious stones. Of course, this is a very important and long-awaited innovation! As Rough&Polished has already written, today, bars of refined precious metals purchased in banks without VAT can legally be sold to the same banks only, at the redemption price set by the banks. Moreover, it can be done in case of providing their proper safety and the documents accompanying the purchased thing. It is no use to talk about the convenience of such investments ...

Of course, granting the right to sell investment bars to buying-up centres is still the restriction on the right of private persons to dispose of their property. However, this is much better than not having such a right at all.

A similar, but even tougher situation may be with the expected removal of VAT on the sale of cut and polished precious stones without VAT to private persons. Obviously, for a variety of reasons (from the risks of a non-disclosure of possible substituting a stone by mistake during its repurchase to reluctance to buy back insufficiently liquid objects), banks can be even more reluctant to buy back these certified precious stones. And without buying-up centres, such a market is generally impossible.

It is very good for developing the domestic market of precious stones that in the new norm of law under consideration, buying-up centres are allowed to make deals not only for certified cut and polished precious stones but also with uncertified ones. However, in the new norm of law under consideration, uncertified cut and polished precious stones are called cut and polished precious stone studs, which suggests appearing some criteria in subordinate legislation to distinguish cut and polished precious stone studs from just cut and polished precious stones. For example, the requirements regarding the presence of traces of metals on the surface of a stone (which, by the way, can be found not on every dismounted stone). Of course, the introduction of such a norm or a similar one into a subordinate legislation would bring the common sense of introducing the norm into 41-FZ to nothing. Moreover, even before introducing this norm into 41-FZ, in fact, cut and polished precious stone studs were items made of precious stones, theoretically available for circulation among private persons. And the right given now to buying-up centres to make deals for any cut and polished precious stones, is, of course, a kind of the market liberalization.

New norm of law No.4 - Precious stones

We have already discussed above the innovations in terms of granting the right to buying-up centres to work with any cut and polished precious stones owned by private persons. But amended law 41-FZ contains several new norms of law related to precious stones.

Firstly, the notion of unfit precious stones is withdrawn from law 41-FZ as the paragraph of Article 22 was eliminated: 3. Precious stones unfit for manufacturing jewellery pieces and other items from precious metals and (or) precious stones are used as products for industrial purposes without the restrictions established by this Federal Law.

The criteria and procedure for classifying precious stones as unfit for manufacturing jewellery and other items from precious metals and (or) precious stones are established by the Government of the Russian Federation.

Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 437 of May 17, 2016 classified all the residuals of precious stones as unfit as well as melee stones of linear dimensions under 2 mm formed during any processing of precious stones (except for natural diamonds).

We do not consider here the regulation of the diamond circulation by 41-FZ, limiting ourselves to the analysis of the new norms of law relating the circulation of coloured precious stones, for which linear dimensions under 2 mm cannot be of any practical interest. Therefore, this clause in the previous versions of 41-FZ was of no importance to jewellers or individual collectors of minerals, that is why there were no regrets for its withdrawal from amended 41-FZ. The meaning of this old norm in 41-FZ without taking into account the rules for classifying as unfit, of course, gave some illusions that some precious stones in Russia are in free civil circulation, but those were only illusions ... So, mentioning the rights to free circulation of only residuals of precious stones in new paragraph 5 of Article 22 of the law is a more honest norm.

However, amended law 41-FZ gave a new expectation of any hints at the liberalization of the precious stone circulation. For lawyers unaware of the specifics of the precious stone regulation, the new norm of law discussed below may seem prohibitive, but in fact, it is a permissive one. Article 22 of law 41-FZ was amended by introducing new paragraph 6:

6. Private persons who are not individual entrepreneurs or jewellery artists are not allowed to make deals for precious metals and precious stones, except for jewellery pieces and other items made of precious metals and (or) precious stones, cut and polished precious stones and investment precious metals owned by these private persons and provided with certificates.

What is permissive in this new norm of law? It is the fact that for the first time in the Russias modern history, paragraph 6 of amended law 41-FZ will allow private persons both to store and even to make deals for cut and polished precious stones with each other from March 1, 2024! However, the wording of this norm of law is made in such a way that it is impossible to understand whether the need to have a certificate applies to cut and polished precious stones, or whether this requirement applies to investment precious metals only. It is likely that some subsequent subordinate legislation will clarify the situation, but it seems that this subordinate legislation will clarify that deals with private persons will be allowed only for certified cut and polished precious stones. It just so happened in the regulation of the PMPS that if anything relatively liberal is stipulated by a law, then a subordinate legislation must necessarily prohibit this with additional conditions, turning the liberal norm of law into a fiction.

The funny thing about this is that taking into account that the norms of law under consideration will come into force only from March 1, 2024, it means it will not work for another year. So, it turns out that during this year, private persons can make deals for any precious stones with each other, including for rough precious stones, collectable samples, and not only for cut and polished ones? After all, there is no direct ban on this in the previous version of the law, and the ban under paragraph 6 of the law has not yet entered into force. But you need to understand: in Russia, much happens not according to the law, but according to by special rules. In this case, according to the rules of law enforcement agencies. So, its better not to tempt fate!

If we touched on the topic of the circulation of collectable samples with precious stones (not rough ones) among private persons, it is worth mentioning that the relevant department of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation is familiar with the problem relating to mineral collectors, and is does not mind to allow the circulation of such items. But a certain federal executive body objected, and this norm was not included in amended law 41-FZ. Well, collecting minerals is an environmental, cultural part of the citizens hobbies, it is not of the highest priority in our time ... However, making this decision would increase the circulation of precious stones on the domestic market, including through the sale of aesthetic specimen samples with emeralds as souvenirs and gifts, but, apparently, this argument did not work.

CONCLUSION: Amended law 41-FZ demonstrates a generally positive movement towards the development of the Russian PMPS market, however, in fact, everything will be determined not by the law, but by the subordinate legislation that will be issued during the year. And it will be possible to understand the real trend in the regulation of the PMPS market when we see it.

Vladimir Zboikov for Rough&Polished
The towns of Amherst and Tonawanda were not at fault in the death of Jennifer L. Duffin, who was struck and fatally injured five years ago as she crossed Niagara Falls Boulevard, a Rochester-based appeals court has ruled.

The Appellate Division, Fourth Department, found Amherst and Tonawanda were not responsible for conditions in the roadway because the boulevard is a state route. The unanimous ruling, issued Feb. 10, upheld a 2021 state Supreme Court decision.

Why is Niagara Falls Boulevard so dangerous for pedestrians? Safety audit spells it out The study by Tonawanda and Amherst found there arent enough intersections with signals and crosswalks, the road is too dark at night and it takes too long for pedestrians to

The lawsuit accusing the towns of allowing "unreasonably dangerous" road conditions was filed in 2019 on behalf of Duffin's son and daughter.

Duffin, then 41, was killed on May 12, 2018, as she crossed between Inn Keepers Lane and Willow Ridge Drive  the sixth pedestrian to die on a 6-mile stretch of the boulevard over a half-dozen-year period.

Because the ruling was unanimous, it is unlikely the Court of Appeals will accept an appeal of the case. Claims against the driver of the vehicle, Michael O'Hare Jr., and the vehicle's registered owner, Michael O'Hare Sr., are pending. A lawsuit filed against New York state in the state Court of Claims also is active.
The African Diamond Council (ADC) is calling on the Kimberley Process (KP) to remodel its enforcement and accountability mechanisms if it wants to remain relevant and effective.

ADC chairperson Mzee Fula-Ngenge told Rough&Polisheds Mathew Nyaungwa on the sidelines of the Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa that at the same time, KP must be under an obligation to rework its consensus model of decision-making, which would allow prompt and forceful retribution for noncompliance by members.

He said the diamond trade watchdogs operational framework is not being met and this was encouraging diamond smuggling, particularly in Africa.

Fula-Ngenge also said that the remittance of smuggled diamonds from Africa has become one of ADCs top priorities.

He said that currently there is no law requiring the return of the smuggled diamonds back to the country of origin.

Below are excerpts from the interview.

What is the African Diamond Council (ADC)s reaction to the recent decision to have Botswana host the permanent secretariat of the Kimberley Process (KP)?

From an African Diamond Council (ADC)s vantage point, the long-term objective was inevitably to position a presiding and accountable level of influence in the hands of African diamond-producing countries, so the ADC is more than satisfied by the successful outcome of our unabated lobbying efforts to secure the government of Botswana for their selection as hosts of the Kimberley Process Permanent Secretariat. Its a new beginning and things will change for the better, especially if we remain focused on defining reality.

Why was it important for Botswana to host the permanent secretariat of the Kimberley Process (KP)?

There is an infallible belief or culture within the ADC structure that African diamond-producing countries should be at the forefront, leading the way and functioning as the definitive mouthpiece that ushers in ground-breaking concepts for all legislation regarding the direction that the natural diamond industry takes on a global level. While the ADC equally encourages all of its member states to contribute to a more transparent and better-controlled African diamond trade, Botswana's legacy of good governance in the diamond mining sector serves as an excellent example, particularly concerning highlighting transparency as well as underlining accountability in the global rough diamond trade.

Botswana is currently Africa's top diamond-producing nation of natural, gem-quality diamonds and one should pay very close attention to how this nation has transitioned from meagerness - more than five and a half decades ago - to having the third highest sovereign credit ratings in sub-Saharan Africa, which means that they consistently possessed an unmatched understanding that their people will perish without evidence of vision.

This nation is the second freest economy on the continent and they have reared some of Africas most competent academics, so their undertaking as KP Permanent Secretariat will give prominence to their commitment to innovation. This southern African nation has demonstrated that they possess an exceptionally effective and positive political structure, despite its struggles to reaffirm its partnership with the De Beers Group of Companies in the last few months. We will see the government of Botswana demand a bigger share of the profits.

Botswana serves as an admirable example in diamond mining for what many would consider not-so-developed countries, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Sierra Leone and the Central African Republic. Botswana must also keep in mind that to enjoy long-term success as the KP Permanent Secretariat, its leadership should not only be pioneering, but it must also be disruptive and free of time-consuming, bureaucratic procedures. Botswana has to work harder to establish more efficient regulatory procedures to maintain this high level of reference I am conveying at this present time.

What do you think needs to be done to ensure Kimberley Process (KP) remains relevant?

Well, let us first demonstrate a bit of hindsight by looking back to some of the armed conflicts that took place within African diamond-producing countries around the time when the Kimberley Process (KP) was launched. In 2002, Angola's civil war ended as well as the one in Sierra Leone. The second Congo war concluded in 2003 and the civil war in Cote d'Ivoire ended in 2007 which was followed by renewed conflict in 2010. A civil war started in the Central African Republic that has been ongoing since 2012, so despite the soft-law structure of the Kimberley Process, together with their participating governments, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and key diamond industry players, many believe that they are innocently advocating for the good of the industry.

Nonetheless, many are also fully aware that the certification scheme was originally designed to address a very distinct set of circumstances. In other words, the global diamond industry continues to be subjected to defeat in its effort to effectively combat the smuggling of rough diamonds in line with the KP Operational Framework. In the middle of 2000, several pivotal industry stakeholders met in Kimberley, South Africa to discuss and introduce ways that would prevent the trading of so-called blood or conflict diamonds. While our collective aim was to make sure that diamond purchases were not financing violence, we made a mistake by settling on a limited definition that was too explicit as well as a bit too inflexible.

When the world becomes cognisant of founding members abandoning the KP with an unforgiving sense of conviction, such as Partnership-Africa Canada (PAC), which is presently known as IMPACT and when the world witnesses advocacy groups, such as Global Witness, make their departure in 2011, then it is effortless to confront the reality that the initial course of action can be deemed as defective. The African Diamond Council (ADC) believes that for KP to remain relevant and effective, it must remodel its enforcement and accountability mechanisms. At the same time, the KP must also be under an obligation to rework its consensus model of decision-making, which would certainly allow prompt and forceful retribution for noncompliance by members.

In other words, the desired results of the KP operational framework are not being met and quite the contrary, these deficiencies are precisely what encourages diamond smuggling, particularly in Africa. We have witnessed many times that the KPs operational framework cannot even achieve its objectives that allow a flow of diamonds from areas under government control. We should also concede that a KP Certificate is not part of international law and by no means is it a certificate of origin, however, I shall maintain that it does bestow a sense of self-proclaimed authority to affiliated entities that have become preoccupied with representing and presiding over the entire global diamond industry.

An imposing effort has been made to revamp and expand upon a System of Warranties (SoW), which is a supply chain program of self-regulation that is intended to track diamonds after the Kimberley Process goes through the process to certify them. The updated SoW should lend a helping hand in extending the effectiveness of the KP beyond the export and import of rough, natural diamonds. On top of that, the Kimberley Process Civil Society Coalition has been there without fail to remind the entire diamond industry that African diamond-producing nations have consistently mastered the art of making the most of industry loopholes and nations such as the Central African Republic continue to exemplify prowess in exploiting the lassitude of the KP traceability chain with intricate smuggling operations by way of well-structured networks in Cameroon.

KP's consensus model is effectively and forcefully used to rule out any significant progress. Attempts to discuss KP's weaknesses are blocked as well as confrontational dialogue that censures Russian diamond trading, both, serve as excellent reasons why preceding and potential supporters of the KP hold the belief that the certification scheme has become contaminated. Industry leaders who know the way to success tend to travel the right path day in and day out. These are typically the ones who are good at showing others the best way to settle on an insightful plan of action.

If we use Zimbabwe as an illuminating case study, we will see that this diamond-producing nation was cited with several human rights cases of abuse for two consecutive years between 2006 and 2008. When "rapid response" police conducted raids to drive out local miners from the Marange diamond fields, there were various accusations of tormenting, homicide, physical abuse and persecution of local miners, none of which could be held chargeable under the existing definition of KP's blood or conflict diamond.

No civil war was taking place at that time and the entire world was able to witness the opposition leader in Zimbabwe be named Prime Minister in 2008 by the country's President.

In 2011, the ADC was motivated to take the lead in vindicating Zimbabwe's misfortune at the 9th Kimberley Process Plenary in Kinshasa by making a comprehensible argument that Zimbabwe may have been the world's best example of a power-sharing agreement. The resolution of that dispute was an unpredicted core issue that divided the KP and was certainly responsible for obstructing dialogue amongst its existing members.

If external advocates of the KP, such as the U.S.s executive department responsible for foreign policy and relations has been a bit more attentive domestically, they would have been able to witness greater turmoil and chaos within U.S. borders than those they believed that they had identified inside Maranges diamond fields or between Robert Mugabe and Morgan Tsvangirai, who both proved that they could join forces without any external or unsolicited intervention.

The ADC continues to protect, defend and promote its diamond-producing member countries. Every year, we position ourselves as a governing body to proliferate their influence, visibility and relevance. In the case of Zimbabwe, we knew it was essential for us to stand up for them as an African diamond-producing nation, without ever falling victim to the political senselessness of those who were determined to unsettle governmental harmony in Africa.

Which definition of conflict diamonds do you subscribe to?

Technically speaking, 'Conflict' or 'Blood' diamonds are rough, natural diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance armed conflicts aimed at undermining or waging war against legitimate governments. The Kimberley Process Diamond Certification Scheme (KPCS) is a multilateral international initiative that was established in 2003 and it aimed to prevent the global flow of these diamonds that usually originated in Africa.

Since the scope of the KP has proven to be rather limited, we have seen several foundational and supporting international entities walk away as a result of its fragmentary definition. The ADC has continually suggested the implementation of a broader definition; however, we are cognisant that there are many possessing no qualms about a definition since they can benefit more from KP's existing denotation and framework. As the global diamond industry maintains high hopes of salvaging KPs impaired certification scheme, they will certainly have to depend more on their Civil Society coalition to assist in restoring any misplaced credibility.

The ADC has suggested that KPs finite definition be broadened to encompass natural diamonds that are being mined as a result of human suffering. This would also consist of human rights abuses by governments as well as rebel or militia groups collecting diamond revenue to engage in armed conflicts. I am also suggesting that there should be harsh penalties for criminal misconduct such as corruption, forced child labour and illegal transport of diamonds. If smuggled African diamonds are ever confiscated outside of the continent, there is no legislation requiring the return of those diamonds back to the country of origin, so remittance has become one of our top priorities.

Some members of KP expressed their dissatisfaction over the chairmanship of Zimbabwe this year. What is your reaction to that?

My retort is binary. Despite that, I shall attempt to establish a bit of context. When we see Russian diamonds coming under attack for the last year, Zimbabwe has to view this uncertainty as a bona fide and immediate opportunity to exhibit an unforeseen level of domestic transparency. For example, a nationwide initiative to implement blockchain technology on all Zimbabwean goods would certainly give credence to dismissing any complaints regarding Zimbabwe's intention to assume the role of KP Chair. This non-compulsory gesture would be a clear indication that Zimbabwe is attempting to arrive at solutions for its domestic industry that external entities would not be inclined to solve.

Furthermore, it would mean that Zimbabwe is becoming much more comfortable and confident in assuming responsibility for themselves within the realm of industry transparency. The global diamond trade is and has always been preoccupied with self-regulation and having Zimbabwe as the KP Chair would prove to be rather disparaging and disturbing in the eyes of those who typically maintain a contrived sense of control over the industry. Since Zimbabwe has often been denounced for engaging in past human rights transgressions, I anticipated that there be would resistance from those who feel that they will be tested. Nonetheless, many will remember that Zimbabwe is an African nation that displayed a great deal of success in exposing the vulnerabilities of the KP while demonstrating its ineffectiveness, so dismay is inevitable.

Sitting at KP Chair is an opportunity for Zimbabwe to step out of its comfort zone, walk a straight line and discard any past KP violations that they have been repeatedly criticised for. This is a nation that is now in control of its destiny and if they take the time to confront its internal proceedings, I am confident that they will provide solutions without any external intervention or intrusion. Since the KP has been stripped of much of its embryonic cogency, there should not be any insistent anxiety whatsoever concerning Zimbabwe becoming the KP Chair.

What are you doing as a Council to help Zimbabwe succeed as this years KP chairperson?

Since Zimbabwe was the KP Vice-Chair to Botswana, it is expected that they would become the Chair. The country is entitled to this preferment and their tenure to administer the KP shall leave many of the detractors confounded. It is a matter of time before each African diamond-producing country receives an opportunity to illustrate how their nation can positively contribute to the existing certification scheme.

The ADC is supporting Zimbabwe's eagerness to implement nationwide blockchain technology on their mined diamonds because the technology is well-positioned to record the entire journey of the mined diamond. Since this move is unanticipated, it shall unquestionably assist them in their efforts to establish greater positioning among higher-ranking African diamond-producing nations. I know this is an exhausting topic, but let's just talk about it. The issue of illegal diamond mining.

What is being done to put to an end this problem in Africa?

The ADC has become much better at anticipating the industry problems of African diamond-producing countries and we are taking prompt action to solve them in advance. We are attacking activities of illegal mining through a variety of avenues and the most successful operation to date is the Republic of Angola's 'Operation Transparency', which commenced in 2018. If you look at Angolas diamond sector today, much of the success you see is a direct result of this particular initiative.

Since many of the garimpeiros (Portuguese) in Angola and zama zamas (isiZulu) in South Africa are not officially recognized or go undetected by the system, the ADC works to organize these small-scale miners or informal supply chain players, while highlighting the skillset to assist us in recovering lost revenue. The ADC commits to occupying and addressing industry voids that are typically overlooked or abandoned by both, the public and private sectors as well as those by international industry bodies.

There are undesired transgressors, armed private security forces as well as imprudent public sector companies, who make use of widespread and systematic violence throughout Africa to secure their economic interests in diamond exploitation, so major diamond trading centres and hubs have got to reinforce their decrepit internal controls and so must each African diamond producing nation. Operation Transparency was incredibly effective and at the same time, I will admit that it was not free from criticism or controversy, particularly since the crackdown shut down more than 70 illegal diamond cooperatives, imprisoned more than 60 illegal immigrants and expelled close to 400,000.

The operation was intended to ameliorate the local diamond sector as well as increase domestic revenues and of course, both the African Diamond Council (ADC) and the Government of Angola welcome this favourable outcome. Much of the reform is ongoing with the collaborative efforts of the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA), the National Police (PN) and the Migration and Foreigners Service (SME). A great deal of these diamonds is now being reclaimed through the ADC's revenue recovery initiative which aims on procuring rough diamond parcels that routinely get illegally transported out of the country.

The rough diamond production that the ADC takes in through its safe houses in the Republic of Angola has proved to be remunerative for the domestic diamond trade. The premium goods recovered by ADC are kept in reserves within the state-owned national bank and are designated to fulfill the function of serving as fringe benefits to those investing in diamond exploration projects.

An unspecified amount of the common goods are put up for sale through Angolas national diamond trading company and the special stones that ADC recovers are allocated through the African International Diamond Exchange (AIDEX) platform.

Diamond concession holders in African diamond-producing countries are being advised to beef up security and surveil activities in their designated mining areas, frequent police raids are being carried out in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe where illegal mining is widespread, nearly all of the fictitious cooperatives in Angola have been dissolved, small-scale and artisanal miners are becoming more useful in facilitating the mining objectives of each African diamond mining nation. In South Africa, there is still intermittent Zama-Zama activity and while none are getting rich from their unwelcome extraction efforts, many of their undertakings are prompted by high unemployment rates.

The ADC's attempts to highlight the success of artisanal and informal miners have even secured many jobs for them within several major mining companies. Our long-term efforts have significantly contributed to reducing violence and child labour in the African diamond trade and have improved environmental as well as issues & safety issues. We have exceeded our expectations in attracting huge investments in exploration and we continue to create better economic conditions for entire regions that depend on diamond mining revenue.

What are you doing as Africa Diamond Council (ADC) to promote diamond mining and trading on the continent?

The ADC is committed to globally promoting natural diamonds, particularly those that are extracted in Africa. There are a handful of diamond mining companies that tend to be hypersensitive to situations that draw attention to their corporate pursuits and several go out of their way to circumvent the slightest bit of visibility, whether ethical or inopportune. Nonetheless, the ADC does aggressively contribute to highlighting positive reform and we make every effort to feature African intellect within the trade whenever we can.

The ADC is inclined to be favourably disposed to empowerment initiatives, primarily those that usher women and youth into focus. We are admirers of projects such as Young Diamantaires and to a high degree, we stand by the undertakings of non-profit organizations like Women in Mining and the African Diamond Manufacturers Association (ADMA), which is a subsection we recently welcomed to the ADC platform and plan of action. African International Diamond Exchange (AIDEX) has experienced success in unique marketing techniques for rough diamonds to secure investment for exploration, while the Angolan Diamond Exchange (ADE) is working to solve and circumvent humiliation with respect to why the undertaking has failed to be favored with a punctual and eminent launch.

The AIDEX allocation method of selling is specifically designed to position African diamond concession holders to meet their annual production goals. Last, but not least, we also have our sights set on establishing an African Diamond Museum.

What would be the importance of this diamond museum?

Two contrasting examples can be provided. The rationalization to inaugurate an African Diamond Museum can be made for both, South Africa and Botswana, both countries that are known to deliver some of the world's most historic diamonds. In 2022, Botswana uncovered two massive diamonds with 1000+ carats within a month. A 1,098-carat diamond was extracted by Debswana Diamond Company and a 1,174.76-carat diamond was unearthed at the Karowe mine by Lucara Diamond Company. When such uncommon discoveries occur, there should not be any immediate pressure to simultaneously or desperately sell these stones. The unearthing provides grounds or rationale to create an exhibition space where such diamonds contribute to as well as set diamond tourism in motion on the African continent.

I am celebrating my 40th year in the industry and I hope that African diamond-producing nations will pull together to finalize the plans to erect a museum, where the domestic industry can conduct research, collect data, conserve history, interpret the domestic narratives and exhibit some of our most precious stones such as the 'Great Star of Africa'. So many of our significant diamonds exit Africa without residents of diamond-producing nations ever having the opportunity to view them unless a photo or video appears in a press release or foreign publication.

As an example, we look at the frenzy created by De Beers Cullinan Blue, which was extracted from the Kimberley mine in South Africa by Petra Diamonds. This fancy vivid blue, rough diamond was later purchased by the De Beers Group, who brought Sotheby's aboard to market the iconic stone. The diamond was showcased on a worldwide tour which unfortunately did not include a sojourn within the confines of either of our 54 African nations. We would have loved to see any of those aforementioned diamonds in their raw state, given that they possess the potential to launch and contribute to diamond tourism in Africa.

Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished
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Blowing the whistle on a cover-up of sexual abuse in the Diocese of Buffalo cost them not only their jobs, but their careers working for the church they loved.

But five years later, Siobhan M. O'Connor and the Rev. Ryszard S. Biernat have no regrets about providing a television reporter documents and audio recordings implicating then-Bishop Richard J. Malone in the mishandling of clergy sexual abuse allegations.

"It wasnt easy to face the whole machine of church administration," Biernat said in an interview last week. "I dont like making people hate me but some people did after that. I didnt take it lightly that I was going to make some enemies doing that."

O'Connor, Malone's former executive assistant, knew it would be hard to secure a new office job after she went on CBS News' "60 Minutes" and acknowledged that she was the key source for three WKBW-TV reports that led to protests and widespread calls for Malone to resign.

"Its a difficult thing to interview for a position  for any executive assistant, one of the priorities is can you maintain confidentiality? And its pretty obvious that, at least in certain circumstances, I cannot," O'Connor said.

To mark the fifth anniversary of the start of the sexual abuse scandal in the diocese, The Buffalo News spoke with the two whistleblowers, as well as a former bishop and others who played a central role in the abuse scandal that led to state and federal investigations and the bankruptcy of the diocese.

Who is Father Ryszard Biernat, and why would he secretly record Bishop Malone? Recordings revealed this week to a local TV reporter were made while Biernat was serving as the bishops priest secretary, his closest aide. Serving in that role for six years, he spent more time with the bishop than any other person in the Diocese of

Ryszard Biernat

Few have paid as high a price as Biernat for exposing the diocese's secrets. Technically, he remains a priest, but has been suspended since Malone imposed sanctions on him the day before the bishop resigned in 2019.

Biernat served as Malone's clerical assistant, driver and housemate until he provided audio recordings to WKBW-TV of Malone concealing sexual harassment accusations against a Cheektowaga priest.

This could be the end for me as bishop," Malone said in the recordings. "It could force me to resign.

One month after the publication of the tapes, the Vatican opened an investigation of Malone, and he resigned in December 2019. He was temporarily replaced by Albany Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger, who Biernat said proposed that he leave the diocese and serve as a priest elsewhere.

I felt that was a move to just push me outside so people forget and move on," Biernat said. "Buffalo is my home.

Bishop Michael W. Fisher also has not removed the suspension imposed by Malone, so Biernat has moved on. The 42-year-old priest, who has a background in electrical engineering, now serves as facilities manager at Larkin Development Group in Buffalo.

"I love fixing stuff," Biernat said. "I find lots of fulfillment in this job, and I can continue to be helpful to people.

He occasionally performs priestly functions such as blessing terminally ill Catholics who reach out to him, and performing weekly Masses on Zoom for survivors of clergy sexual abuse.

Siobhan O'Connor

Since leaving the diocese, O'Connor has worked at an insurance company, a dental office and two nonprofits. She said she found her true purpose nine days after Bishop Malone resigned, when her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

It was almost like God planned it, that the one chapter closed with Malones resignation and then it was a natural focus on my familys needs, she said.

O'Connor now works as her father's full-time caregiver. She cares for him at his home, takes him to medical appointments and occasionally to church to pray.

When people say, 'What are you doing?' I'm like, 'Well, basically Im just living out the Fourth Commandment,' " said O'Connor, who is 39. "Im honoring my father and mother. Theyve done so much for me, and to have the opportunity to help them out in this way is a real blessing.

Michael Whalen

Michael Whalen set off the abuse scandal on Feb. 27, 2018, when he called a news conference across from the Catholic Center and revealed that he was sexually abused by the Rev. Norbert Orsolits in the 1980s.

Later that day, Orsolits, then 78, admitted to a Buffalo News reporter that he molested "probably dozens" of children during his more than four decades as a priest.

"If I had a choice doing it over again, absolutely I would do it all over again," Whalen said in an interview. "I feel great that I was able to step forward and have the chance to tell my story. I didn't think it would blow up the way it did."

Since 2019, people who said they were sexually abused have filed Child Victims Act lawsuits against more than 230 Catholic priests who served in the Buffalo Diocese.

Orsolits died in March 2021 at the age of 81. Whalen said he regularly keeps in touch with other survivors, but said his life has not radically changed since he stepped forward. He spends most of his days enjoying time with his 11 grandchildren.

"Im still the South Buffalo guy, still loving life," Whalen said. "I may not be in the spotlight or be in your face anymore, but Im still here. Im happy. Im in a good place, and thats all Ive wanted other survivors to do, is get to that place."

Bishop Malone has resigned. So what happens to the diocese now? The decision of who succeeds Richard Malone will ultimately be made by the pope, but only following a lengthy process that begins at the diocesan

Bishop Richard J. Malone

Malone in December 2019 became the first bishop to resign in the diocese's 172-year history. A poll commissioned by The Buffalo News showed most Catholics  and 86%of people in Erie and Niagara counties  wanted Malone to step down.

Since then, he has lived in a Town of Tonawanda house. He also spends time at a home he owns in Cape Cod in Massachusetts.

In a statement sent to The News last week, Malone said he occasionally celebrates Mass and performs confirmations as a "visiting celebrant" at various Western New York parishes.

"I again apologize on behalf of the diocese to all who were abused before I became bishop and apologize personally for those occasions when I failed in the manner in which I addressed the crisis," Malone, 76, said in the statement.

The statement said that in November 2019, "my innate sense was that because of the erosion of trust in the diocese, the diocese could only move forward with new leadership. That is why I made the decision to ask for early retirement."

Malone remains a priest and bishop in good standing, a diocesan spokesperson said, which means he receives a pension and health care paid by the diocese.

The State Attorney General's Office in its settlement of a lawsuit against the diocese stipulated that Malone could not serve on the board of any charitable organization in the state. Malone does not serve on any such boards because he is no longer the sitting bishop, the spokesperson said.

Sean Kirst: Voices of survivors of childhood abuse: Whalen's courage shattered walls within the church Survivors of abuse at the hands of priests say Michael Whalen's courage became the history-changing push that finally overwhelmed diocesan secrecy, going back generations.

A pivotal moment

Fisher and other diocesan leaders have said the diocese is moving forward since the abuse scandal, embarking on a church consolidation program called "Road to Renewal."

Still, Biernat said the abuse scandal was a "pivotal moment" that changed the way child sexual abuse  both inside and outside of the Catholic Church  was viewed in Western New York.

That eclipses any of the consequences they have had to face, he and O'Connor said.

"That was one of our biggest things: to help those who had been hurt, and to prevent others from being hurt in the future," O'Connor said. "It really was a simple thing that we wanted to achieve, so thats a great consolation that it did happen."
A 17-year-old was charged with criminal possession of a weapon after he was found with two loaded handguns following a weekend traffic stop in Niagara Falls, city officials reported Monday.

The incident began about 2:20 a.m. Sunday, when a Niagara Falls patrol officer assisting in a robbery investigation tried to stop a vehicle on 12th Street, between Walnut and Ferry avenues, near Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, according to a news release from the Mayor's Office.

As the driver stopped the vehicle, two people jumped out and ran away. Backup officers soon showed up and tracked down the pair, both younger than 18, who had fled.

The 17-year-old, who was not identified in the statement, was found with the two handguns and taken into custody.

Because of his age, police released the teenager to a family member with an appearance ticket that requires him to return in March to Niagara Falls City Court on the weapons possession charges.
The launch of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to the International Space Station (ISS) was postponed on Monday, February 27, due to ground system issues, NASA reports.

Postponed at the Last Two-Minute Mark

The SpaceX Dragon Crew-6 mission, carrying two NASA astronauts, a Russian cosmonaut, and the second Emirati to travel to space, was set to launch from Florida's Kennedy Space Center at 1:45 a.m. (0645 GMT). The American space agency posted on Twitter that the mission was called off two minutes before liftoff due to ground systems issues.

Launch Update: Today's #Crew6 launch has been scrubbed due to an issue with ground systems. Stand by for details on a new launch date and time. https://t.co/149FPqMrnu pic.twitter.com/1PSYsjCGpL  NASA (@NASA) February 27, 2023

According to ARS Technica, the space agency's webcast host initially revealed the problem with the TEA-TEB igniter fluid around five minutes before the scheduled liftoff time. The technical issue was not resolved by mission operators before the immediate launch window started.

Triethylaluminum (TEA) and triethylborane (TEB) are combined to form TEA-TEB (TEB). These are two distinct metal elements, each bonded to three hydrocarbon atoms. These molecules are bonded together by weak, easily broken links, which is why it spontaneously combusts when TEA-TEB comes into contact with oxygen.

SpaceX systems engineer Kate Tice said in a webcast commentary on Monday that the decision to cancel the launch was taken "out of an abundance of caution."

READ ALSO: SpaceX's Mars-bound Starship Spacecraft Is One Step Closer to Its Maiden Flight After Completing a Key Engine-firing Test

New Schedule for Crew-6 Launch

All members of the Crew-6 mission were safe on board the Crew Dragon spacecraft, and they disembarked shortly after SpaceX began unloading fuel from the rocket, CNN reports. The launch is said to be rescheduled for a later date.

There is a backup opportunity for the mission on Tuesday, February 28. Nevertheless, while the weather was perfect on Monday morning, it may be less so on Tuesday.

Weather at the launch site should be good, but forecasters are concerned about the weather along the rocket's path, which might come into play if the launch is aborted and Crew Dragon needs to return to Earth in an emergency. NASA and SpaceX can launch the Crew Dragon mission on March 2, 3, and 4.

NASA astronauts Stephen Bowen and Warren Hoburg, Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, and UAE's Sultan al-Neyadi will be aboard the orbiting station for six months.

Neyadi, 41, will be the fourth Arab astronaut to travel to space and the second from the oil-rich UAE; his colleague Hazzaa al-Mansoori conducted an eight-day mission in 2019. He describes the planned expedition as a "huge honor." Meanwhile, Hoburg, the Endeavour pilot, and Fedyaev, the Russian mission specialist, will fly into space for the first time.

The mission is anticipated to be SpaceX's eighth astronaut journey on NASA's behalf since 2020. It comes when astronauts at the ISS are dealing with a transportation dilemma.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine pitted Moscow and Washington against each other, space has remained a unique platform for collaboration.

RELATED ARTICLE: SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket Created a Bizarre Blue Spiral That Appeared in the Night Sky Over Hawaii

Check out more news and information on SpaceX in Science Times.
A Wyoming County man who was on parole for a previous violent assault when he shot a pregnant woman in the stomach last year will serve up to 20 years in prison after admitting his guilt in the most recent attack, authorities said.

Jared T. Wrazen, 30, has a lengthy history of domestic violence, drug abuse and alcohol abuse, according to the Wyoming County District Attorney's Office.

Wyoming County man charged in domestic violence shooting Responding to a call on Holland Road in Java, police found a 29-year-old woman shot in the abdomen.

The latest incident took place May 16, at a residence in Java, when Wrazen threatened to kill a 29-year-old woman, and her unborn child, as the victim's 4-year-old son and another woman looked on.

Wyoming County District Attorney Donald O'Geen said in a statement that the victim managed to call 911 and recorded some of the encounter in the moments before Wrazen shot her in the abdomen.

"It is recordings like this that truly highlight how traumatic and violent domestic violence can be," O'Geen said, praising the victim's courage.

Salamanca man gets prison term for burglary, forgery Rik A. Rinehart, 28, of Salamanca, was ordered by Cattaraugus County Judge Ronald D. Ploetz on Monday to serve a two- to four-year state prison term on his Jan. 18 guilty plea to a felony burglary charge for a Little Valley break-in Dec. 9 and his felony forgery plea for an incident in the Town of Mansfield on Sept.

The woman, whose relationship to Wrazen was not specified, was taken by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center. She survived, but her unborn child did not, O'Geen said in a statement.

Wrazen was arrested at the scene.

Under his Nov. 30 guilty plea to first-degree assault, he faced between 10 and 20 years in prison. Thursday in Wyoming County Court, he was sentenced to 20 years, along with five years of post-release supervision.

Wrazen had been paroled in December 2021 after serving five years in prison following his 2016 conviction on an attempted assault charge, state corrections records show. Authorities say he hit two people while driving away from a fight at a party in Farmersville, Cattaraugus County, in 2015, news reports show.

Later that same year, while free on bail in the assault case, he was charged with operating a methamphetamine lab in his Delevan home. Wrazen took a guilty plea to a drug charge.

Alleged meth trafficker gets prison term for violent assault A Delevan man was sentenced to seven years in state prison on his felony assault conviction for a violent incident in Farmersville and for possession of materials used in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Jared Wrazen, 23, also was ordered to submit to five years of post-release supervision by Cattaraugus County Judge Ronald D. Ploetz in Little Valley. District Attorney

Prior to that, in 2014, Wrazen was charged by State Police with aggravated harassment after troopers say he threatened to kill a female acquaintance. The disposition of that case wasn't immediately known.

And in 2012, at the age of 19, Wrazen and another man were charged with violently assaulting an 18-year-old. Wrazen later pleaded guilty to attempted assault. He was ordered to serve a 90-day jail term and to pay the victim's medical costs.

O'Geen and one of Wrazen's lawyers, Jeffrey Lichtman, did not respond to requests for comment Monday.

In a related case, Wrazen's mother, Carolyn, was charged with possessing a firearm that wasn't on her pistol permit license.

Prosecutors say Carolyn Wrazen knew her son, a convicted felon who was on parole and living with her, wasn't allowed to have access to guns.

"She failed to keep those guns away from him or to report the matter to his parole officer," the District Attorney's Office said in a statement.

On Feb. 1, she pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor and was sentenced to a one-year conditional discharge. Carolyn Wrazen's pistol permit has been suspended and authorities seized the illegal gun.
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), the largest integrated transport utility in India and a part of the diversified Adani Group, crossed 300 MMT of cargo handling on February 23, 2023, in just 329 days, beating its own milestone from last year of 354 days.

APSEZ has registered unprecedented growth since it started operations over two decades ago and continues to outperform all India cargo volume growth, with its market share rising rapidly.

"The improvement in cargo volumes is testimony to the faith that our customers have in us," APSEZ CEO and Whole Time Director Karan Adani said.

"It shows our commitment to using improved efficiencies and technological integrations to drive and achieve customer satisfaction. The APSEZ's flagship port, Mundra, is outpacing all its closest rivals by comfortable margins and continues to be the largest port in the nation in terms of volumes handled. Mundra's infrastructure meets world standards and provides service levels on par with those of its global competitors, making it India's gateway for container goods."

Increase in cargo volume handled at ports is a signthat the nation's economy is picking up. Almost 95 per cent of the trade volumes in India are carried through maritime transport. So, having world-class mega ports is imperative for the Indian coastline. Through concession agreements with various government authorities, APSEZ has strategically built a string of ports (pearls) across the coastline of India, along with ICDs (inland container depots) and warehouses, woven intricately with self-owned rakes, covering more than 70 per cent of the hinterland.

APSEZ has seen 4 per cent growth y-o-y at its container terminals because of its efficient infrastructure,which not only helps the country increase its trade share in global trade but also makes it easier for consumers gain access to a wide range of international products at reduced costs. Also, the lower logistics costs associated with maritime allow Indian businesses to export goods around the world,boosting domestic economy and raising the employment rate of Indians in the process.

The engagement with container lines and the resolve to deliver on commitments has led to more new services at APSEZ terminals, raising volumes.

Mundra Port shipped 1,501 fertiliser rakes in the current fiscal year with the total cargo dispatch of 4.8 MMT - the highest ever in the port's history.

This was made possible because of the port's mechanised infrastructure and operational planning. This means vessels do not have to wait longer at the port as fertilisers are removed quickly from them, followed by quicker bagging and loading onto rakes with minimum wastage. The ability to turn around rakes and vessels quickly allows for the delivery of fertilisers to farmers round the year.

This year also saw growth in agri exports due to India's record high foodgrain production and the Russia-Ukraine conflict that opened up opportunities for farm exports.

MundraPort registered a record RO-RO exports - an increase of 18 per cent largely due to long-time customer, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. Hazira has been continuously witnessing sustained growth in chemical volumes y-o-y due to its proximity to the chemical hub of India. It has seen a 16 per cent growth this year.

APSEZ's market leadership in container business has been strengthened because of its strategic partnerships with the world's largest shipping lines like MSC and CMA- CGM.

Mundra Port alone has handled 3,508 commercial vessels, hosting the country's largest container vessel APL Raffles and the deepest draft container vessel MSC Washington.

Shipping larger quantities in a single shipment is very cost-effective. APSEZ's foresight to maintain deep draft ports (cape-enabled) enables its customers bring larger vessel parcels, thereby lowering their overall logistics cost. Krishnapatnam Port has handled capesize vessel like MV NS HAIRUN that carried 165,100 MT of iron ore and departed the port waters with a departure draft of 17.75 m.

At a time when the country's electricity demand is at an all-time high, APSEZ has risen to the occasion and handled the sudden surge of imported coal volumes flowing to India. In line with the government's vision of RSR (Rail-Sea-Rail) movement of domestic coal, APSEZ has begun offering coastal coal export solutions to TANGEDCO through its Gangavaram Port. Similarly, it has been supporting the coastal coal movement to NTPC Khudgi by commencement of coastal coal handling at its Mormugao Terminal.

Besides expanding its business operations, APSEZ has also met its sustainability commitments. Energy and emission intensity has been reduced by around 41 per cent and water intensity by 56 per cent from 2016 levels. Electrification of Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTGs) and Quay Cranes has been completed, and that of Mobile Harbour Cranes is in progress, with 2023 as the target completion year. Diesel-based Internal Transfer Vehicles (ITVs) are being replaced by electric ITVs at Ennore, Kattupalli, Hazira and Mundra. The renewable share of electricity in 9M FY23 has been around 13 per cent.

With its plan to install 250 MW of renewable capacity on a captive basis, APSEZ is moving closer to its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2025.
The Story of Dileep Heilbronn the Indian Entrepreneur who conquered Dubai's Construction Industry

Dubai is attracting young Indian entrepreneurs with its business-friendly environment and opportunities. Start-ups in fields such as technology, e-commerce, and fashion are thriving in the city. Indian entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the diverse and growing market, as well as access to funding and resources. With the support of the government and a culture of innovation, young Indian business owners are making a name for themselves in Dubai. The city is becoming a hub for Indian entrepreneurship, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. Dileep Heilbronn, a small-town man from Kerala, India, has made a name for himself in the construction industry of Dubai. With just a diploma in civil engineering, Heilbronn landed in Dubai in 1991 and worked for a construction firm for a decade before starting his own company, Heilbronn Contracting. Ambitious and driven, Heilbronn had a clear vision of creating a respected and wealthy life for himself. And he has succeeded. Today, he lives in the prestigious Emirates Hills neighborhood and has a collection of luxury cars. Despite his success, Heilbronn has maintained a healthy work-life balance, keeping his family at the forefront of his priorities.

With over 20 years of experience, Heilbronn Contracting has become a well-known name in Dubai, leaving its mark on various landmark projects such as the chilled water pipe for the BurjKhalifa, Mall of Emirates, MadinetJumeirah, and Emirates Rugby Seven. Heilbronn has also worked on major projects for Emirates Airlines for two decades. Not just a successful businessman, Heilbronn is also a self-made designer with a knack for impressing wealthy clients. At just 36 years old, he has already become a millionaire, and his story has been featured in various newspapers. Aside from his business acumen, Heilbronn is also known for his sportsmanship, both in business and in sports. He dreams of building a tower in Dubai that will leave a lasting impact and further solidify his legacy in the city.

In conclusion, Dileep Heilbronn's rise to the top serves as an inspiration to all those who dream of making it big. With hard work, determination, and a clear vision, he has overcome the odds and established himself as a successful entrepreneur in Dubai's competitive construction industry.
The business accelerator programme CoLab of multinational confectionery company Mondelez International has begun operations in India. The goal of the accelerator programme is to support the nation's expanding entrepreneurial community, promote growth and innovation, and take the lead in the snacking sector.

Mondelez International expects that through assisting these businesses, high-growth snacking trends will be explored, picked up on, and adopted. And through the effort, the company will be able to forge a solid alliance with these entrepreneurs and support their expansion in the snacking sector, which will aid the Indian snacking market as a whole.

For the program, up to seven startups will be shortlisted, who will be chosen by a team of internal and external experts and will receive a $20,000 grant. The businesses will take part in a 12-week programme that combines virtual and in-person contacts. This programme will give the startups access to expert mentoring, workshops, the leadership and networks of Mondelez India, as well as relationships with industry experts. Selected Startups will have the opportunity to pitch and raise financing from Huddle and other possible funds at the program's final showcase event.
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Really? A hobo in your late teens and 20s, jumping on and off trains across America, playing songs on the street in a new town hoping to earn enough to put a roof over your head? Being discovered on Manhattans R train by a commuting record company executive who thought, yes, lets sign up a country singer with a hat but no cattle.

Then recording almost a dozen albums, alternating records of original material with ones devoted to covers of often forgotten or obscure American roots writers, all at the pace of someone late for a date with destiny and with the sound of someone who might have just stepped out of history.

Charley Crockett amassed a seemingly inexhaustible supply of musical Americana from his travelling days. Credit: Brooks Burris

Thats about as believable as that accent, Charley Crockett.

In fact, it is all true, but Crockett has heard this in some form or other since he left San Benito in Texas gulf country and joined the growing underclass of Americans for whom a stable home is as much a pipedream as steady work or a living wage.
Buffalo homeowners probably wouldnt expect a reprieve from mowing their lawns.

But thats exactly what city lawmakers are encouraging residents to do as a way to get them involved in environmental conservation efforts and create a more pollinator-friendly environment.

Buffalo is among a growing list of cities and towns across the country and in Western New York participating in No Mow May. It allows homeowners to take a break voluntarily from mowing lawns for the month of May. The goal is to preserve habitat and food sources for bees, butterflies, birds and other pollinators that are necessary to produce apples, grapes, pumpkins and other crops.

At the urging of community activist Karima Bondi, the Buffalo Common Council unanimously adopted a resolution recently supporting the No Mow May initiative for whole or portions of lawns. Homeowners are allowed to participate without being cited or fined by the citys Department of Permit and Inspection Services if they choose to leave their lawns unmowed for the month of May.

No Mow May is asking us to rethink the ideal of the American lawn, said Bondi, president of the Willowlawn Street Block Club.

More homeowners are embracing 'No Mow May.' Now some WNY governments are considering following suit Advocates say putting off the first mowing of the year into June preserves habitat and food sources for bees, butterflies, birds and other creatures that carry pollen among plants.

The No Mow May movement began in 2019 in the United Kingdom and is gaining traction in cities across the United States, including East Aurora.

Environmental advocates and conservationists say No Mow May could help ensure the survival of pollinators, especially bees that are in serious decline.

These little creatures are indispensable, said Bondi, who made a No Mow May presentation to Council members earlier this month.

Studies show that lawns that participate in No Mow May have three to five more pollinators that lawns that do not, said North Council Member Joseph Golombek Jr., a co-sponsor of the measure. One-third of all the food we eat is thanks to pollinators. By supporting this initiative, Buffalo Common Council hopes to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators and promote environmental conservation efforts.

This is certainly something that I support, said Delaware Council Member Joel P. Feroleto, who sponsored the resolution with Golombek. Bondi, who lives in Feroletos district, called Feroleto last year but there was not an opportunity to file the resolution before May of last year.

Detractors point to some drawbacks to the initiative, such as unwanted pests like mosquitoes, fleas and ticks that attracted to tall grass.

Bondi acknowledges the concerns but says misinformation abounds.

Some have concerns about rodents, ticks and allergies, she said. Rodents, especially rats, are attracted to human food scraps and rarely nest in turf. Grasses and wildflowers (dandelions, violets and clover) generally do not produce allergenic pollen. Ticks prefer wooded areas, but exercise common sense caution if you feel you are in an infected area.

Studies of communities that have embraced No Mow May show the grassy areas in question had more bees overall as well as a greater variety of bees, which are important to the ecosystem and the food supply.

Smaller cities, in particular, have embraced No Mow May, including Ann Arbor, Mich., and Appleton, Wis.

In 2020, when Appletons City Council agreed to suspend the weed ordinance for the month of May, over 435 registered property owners participated in the campaign, according to No Mow May  Bee City USAs website. Appletons success attracted more participants, and last year, about 35 cities and municipalities in Wisconsin have adopted No Mow May ordinances, allowing residents to wait until June 1 to mow their lawns. Appleton also codified the initiative into its municipal code last year, making it a permanent option for citizens to participate without fear of being fined.

Locally, the East Aurora Village Board in April last year adopted a resolution encouraging residents to take part in No Mow May and leave lawns unmowed to help the health of bees and other pollinators and wildlife and to allow pollinator species to emerge and early flowering grasses to establish."

This is a  very necessary environmental program, not just for the city but for everywhere, Golombek said.
The flood that destroyed much of Lismore has exposed not only the failure of government at all levels throughout the citys history but a series of missteps and oversights that made the disaster a certainty and a continuing red tape nightmare for victims.

Twelve months later, some residents have started repairing and rebuilding, or have sold up and left for good, but the slow wheels of bureaucracy means that thousands are still waiting to find out their eligibility for the $800 million government buyback/rebuild scheme and, according to Southern Cross University, almost half of the flood victims are still displaced.

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Queensland is further ahead because it announced its buyback scheme for flood victims in May, but it took NSW until the end of October to do the same.

Government failures ordained disaster for Lismore from its earliest days. People have been allowed to build on the floodplain since the town was first proclaimed in 1856 when cedar, cattle and shipbuilding industries attracted rural workers and governments failure to organise safe housing meant they had little choice but to buy and rent floodplain houses.
Australian academic taken hostage in PNG flown back home

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Ken topped Victoria in the subject of musical appreciation in matriculation, and he spent his next five summer holidays attending Music Camps Victoria 1949-53. One of his fondest memories was of the full orchestra rehearsals conducted on Point Lonsdale beach and of the day when the tide came in too quickly and caught the orchestra by surprise.

Upon leaving secondary school, and after some family pressure, Ken opted to study medicine rather than music and he graduated in 1954. Between 1955-60 he worked at the Royal Melbourne Hospital as a medical intern, and then as a resident medical officer and later as chief registrar.

As registrar he discovered that he could find consultants to help with all areas of serious illness, with the exception of joint and connective tissue problems. This was the field he could make a medical contribution to. Three years of overseas specialist training would follow.

Ken studied and worked at teaching hospitals in Canada, the UK and in the US, gaining a Nuffield Travelling fellowship to work with the distinguished Manchester professor of rheumatology, Jonas Kellgren. On the first day in outpatients, Kellgren said to Ken with a half-smile: I will assume that you have not been taught how to examine the joints. This proved to be the case.

While in Manchester, Ken was encouraged by Kellgren to study electron microscopy (EM) and Kens first study identified that the type A synovial lining cell was a macrophage, pointing to its potential role in joint disease. On his return to Australia in 1963, Ken was offered a position in Richard Lovells department of medicine at the University of Melbourne. Ken was the first trained rheumatologist to be offered an academic position in Australia, although this was designated as a post in medicine rather than in rheumatology. Later he became head of the rheumatology unit in the department (1973-1996).
White man takedown was the memorable reaction in US-owned News Corp tabloids to the removal of a bunch of portraits of former Australian high commissioners from the walls of our London diplomatic outpost, Australia House, that someone noticed back in December.

There were 26 portraits honouring each of Australias high commissioners to the UK.

Images of recent high commissioners George Brandis and Alexander Downer hung next to their predecessors, all the way back to first high commissioner and Australias fourth prime minister Sir George Reid.

When the pictures were taken down last year, acting High Commissioner Lynette Woods explanation that they were to be digitised and proudly displayed online didnt wash with those hawk-eyed Murdoch minions whose sources knew for a fact that the poor old former high commissioners were cancelled because they were white men and symbols of patriarchy.

Despite Woods denial that any pesky identity politics was at play, the affair sent someone  maybe well never know who  reaching into their book of boring culture-war tropes for a rant to the tabloids that sounds like it was thrown together by an AI chatbot.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size A year on from the Lismore floods, we revisit the towns people and businesses, and look to its future. See all 3 stories . They are the self-anointed mad punters: everyday people with dreams to make a mark in the business world. Only they have chosen Australias flood capital to do it. Twelve months after one of our biggest natural disasters, the city centre of Lismore is a patchwork of activity and desolation. Some retailers are ebullient, some catatonic, and others shuttered their shops forever, leaving behind just the flies buzzing. However, in this city without flood insurance, without reliable flood warnings, without any meaningful flood mitigation works under way, hope stirs. CBD occupancy is now almost 60 per cent, which includes street-front and upstairs premises. Before the flood, it was hovering about 90 per cent. Six months after the flood it was 38.3 per cent. Newcomers are opening businesses or buying cut-price buildings to join pre-existing retailers who literally dragged themselves out of the mud to start again. Its a big gamble in this town.

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John Stewart is among those daring to dream big. The founder of the three-year-old Living School wants to open a new campus on one of Lismores high streets by August. He joins the sole traders, business partnerships, companies, property trusts, government bodies and not-for-profit groups sinking serious money into the Lismore floodplain. Dairy giant Norco is rebuilding its ice-cream factory on the banks of the Wilsons River. The co-operative will contribute $59 million to the project, with an additional $34.7 million and $11 million in federal and state government support. Stand-alone shopping centre Lismore Square revamped its devastated site and is almost back to full tenancy. Likewise, its smaller cousin Lismore Central is undergoing a $15 million overhaul that includes retractable escalators if any future flood threatens. Westlawn outlaid $2 million repairing its five-storey building that attracted new major tenant Social Futures, which brought 120 staff to the CBD. John Stewart, from Lismores The Living School. Credit:Elise Derwin Stewart, a former headmaster of Southern Highlands Tudor House, bought a dormant country department store, McLeans Brown and Jolly, just before the 2022 flood, intending to create a middle school for up to 160 fee-paying students from years 5 to 8. After the disaster, however, Stewart and the school board debated for months whether to proceed with a staged $6 million regeneration of the 123-year-old building in Woodlark Street. They recommitted. I know what people are saying: mad John Stewart. I get the emails, he says.

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We know there will be future floods. We have assessed the risk, and we feel the responsibility to go back into our heartland outweighs the risk. We want to be a major future hub of the Lismore community and help that community deal with its floods. Everyone is going to have issues because of climate change [across Australia]. We need to see Lismore as an opportunity, not to quickly abandon it, but to see how do we adapt and support it. Fifteen year 10 students will get apprenticeships to work on the rebuild. The multi-storey department store will be stripped back to concrete and hardwood timber with detachable waterproof cladding installed to allow easier cleaning, with lifts and hoists to raise equipment above the 2022 flood level. Part of the roof will be removed to bring sunlight into the building. An internal rainforest will be planted to assist with post-flood decontamination. The school will be redesigned to accept floods entering and, just as importantly, leaving quickly. They will have plenty of opportunity to test their plan.

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Twenty-nine big floods  9.9 metres or higher  have swamped downtown Lismore since 1870. After a 10.65-metre high levee was built in 2005, only three floods have entered the CBD. The 2022 disaster  a record 14.37 metres  was two metres above the previous biggest recorded events in 1954 and 1974. Lismore is at the mercy of its European history, which from 1842 became a place to cut down precious cedar timber and farm dairy and beef cattle. A town based around the highest navigable port for cargo-carrying vessels on the north arm of the Richmond River, now called the Wilsons River. The town took root around its river origins, growing outwards in fits and starts, governed by the whims of pastoralists and the surrounding valleys. Modern Lismore is a regional city, a sprawl straddling two worlds. Half of its residents, most of its business, industry and civic buildings and cultural institutions are wedded to the historic river valley floor, 10 metres above sea level. The other half sits atop a plateau 130 metres to 170 metres above sea level, east of the central business district. Its university and Base Hospital (out of the flood zone), its two major shopping centres, Lismore Square and Lismore Central, as well as regional government offices, white-collar professionals and most of its industrial estates (all on the floodplain) serve the entire Northern Rivers region of nearly 300,000 people. Now, it is evolving again: Lismore is Australias first climate change city.

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Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg knows the price extracted for doing business there. The 2022 disaster smashed him. Before the flood, Krieg and wife Julianne owned two cafes, La Baracca and Ristretto, downtown. Both were leased properties. With three children, the couple lived in a house attached to La Baracca. They lost everything. It would have been very easy to walk away, he says. We had sold our family house to keep the businesses going after the 2017 flood, and we were saving for another home loan. We were eligible for business grants but also had to spend tens of thousands of dollars of our savings to get back. We shut down Ristretto but kept going with La Baracca. Given my position [as mayor], I couldnt look this town in the eye if we walked away. Krieg admits, however, he was unable to sign another five-year lease for La Baracca and the attached house during recent renewal discussions. He didnt have the confidence.

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A popular western Sydney mayor who threatens to derail Labors election prospects has accused the party of treating locals as second-class citizens over its decision to pull back from two Metro projects running through battleground seats.

Opposition Leader Chris Minns on Sunday confirmed a Labor government would not push ahead with business cases for Metro lines between Parramatta and the new western Sydney airport, or Bankstown to Glenfield.

Fairfield mayor Frank Carbone says Labor is prioritising marginal seats at our expense. Credit: Steve Siewert

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet also seized on Labors hesitation over the projects, which he estimates would support thousands of jobs.

Minns argued the state should not throw millions of dollars at plans for future Metro extensions before it can guarantee the first stages will be delivered on time or on budget.
Missing man Lincoln Miyamoto has been found in Rose Bay, about 10 kilometres from his original location.

On Monday, police called for public assistance to find the 70-year-old, who was last seen at a unit on Kingsborough Way, Zetland, about 8.30am on Saturday.

Lincoln Miyamoto seen leaving a Zetland unit about 8.30am. Credit: NSW Police Media

Following inquiries and a public appeal for assistance, Miyamoto was located safe and well in Rose Bay about 7.45pm on Monday.

Earlier in the day, South Sydney police area command crime manager Phil Hallinan said Miyamoto was a Brazilian national who had been in Australia visiting family since January. They held concerns as he had a brain injury and did not speak English, he said.
Police fatally shoot man in Sydney

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When the commanding officer found out about it before the wedding he said, You cant do it, are you crazy? But dad said: Its all organised, everyone is coming. The CO said the only time it would ever be possible was if one of the couple was an orphan, and it turned out my mother was an orphan so it was able to go ahead because of that loophole.

Emily said: After seeing him she went home and said: I have met the man I am going to marry. Every time he drove into the car yard she would go out and water the flowers, just to be visible. They had their wedding in 1967 with the reception aboard HMAS Melbourne, which nobody ever did.

He met his future wife, Virginia, when he was based at HMAS Albatross in Nowra and she was working at a motor service station.

This was followed by Wessex Operational Flying School with 725 Squadron and then postings at sea with HMAS Melbourne and ashore at HMAS Albatross with 817 Squadron and included time as Mirror Control Officer, (the mirror was part of an aircraft carriers landing aid for pilots) on HMAS Melbourne.

In June 1969, two years after the wedding, Buchanan was involved in the rescue operation after the aircraft carrier HMAS Melbourne was in collision with the destroyer USS Frank E. Evans of the United States Navy. The two ships were participating in SEATO exercise Sea Spirit in the South China Sea. Evans sailed under Melbournes bow, where she was cut in two resulting in the loss of 74 of Evanss crew. For assisting in retrieving sailors out of the water he was awarded the Commendation Medal by the US Navy.

In November 1969 he was selected for Service in the RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam (RANHFV) 4th contingent arriving in the Republic of Vietnam in October 1970. Once in the country he became the platoon commander of the Second Lift Platoon flying the Iroquois UH-1H Huey helicopter and served in theatre between September 1970 and June of 1971. Lieutenant Buchanan flew 840 hours in Vietnam and had his helicopter damaged on several occasions before completing his tour of duty.

Jim Buchanan during his time with the RAN.

He rarely talked of his service in Vietnam until the last 10 years when he would openly discuss it. In an attempt at his memoirs he wrote: In October 1970 I found myself in Vietnam, deputy commanding officer of the RANHFV 4th contingent. Wow! At that time if you combined the total command time of my commander, a newly promoted lieutenant commander, and me, who had once had a couple of months as a squadron senior pilot, our combined total command time would have been less than the command time of any one of the senior officers from the 1st, 2nd or 3rd contingents. And here we were bravely leading our innocents into battle from Dong Tam.

In retrospect I dont think that either of us fully realised that the fact that the RAAF would not land at Dong Tam, because it was insecure, implied Dong Tam was in the battlefield!
An alleged victim of former ultra-Orthodox principal Malka Leifer was scared and panicked when sexual abuse accusations against the school leader began to surface, a jury has heard.

Dassi Erlichs former husband, Joshua, told a jury in the Melbourne County Court on Monday that Leifer had been adored and spoken of in glowing terms by his wife and her two sisters, who regarded the Adass community leader as a surrogate parent.

A court sketch of Malka Leifer in the County Court earlier this month. Credit: Mollie McPherson/Nine News

But when attention began to turn on Leifers behaviour Dassi became afraid of what would follow.

Leifer has pleaded not guilty to 29 charges, including rape. She is standing trial on allegations that between 2003 and 2007, she abused three students who attended the Adass Israel School in Elsternwick. She has consistently maintained her innocence.
Gov. Kathy Hochuls executive budget for fiscal year 2024 includes $124 million for the University at Buffalo to achieve its research and flagship goals and $10 million for the City of Buffalo to create a new Office of Recovery and Planning for storm emergencies like the deadly blizzard of 2022, among many other goals.

Hochul came to UB Monday to detail a budget wish list in a presentation that put a Western New York spin on many of the goals she outlined in her State of the State address in January.

Hochul outlines $227 billion budget proposal with calls for ambitious programs, and caution for the future Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled her state budget proposal on Wednesday, laying out a record-setting $227 billion plan she said focused on increasing affordability in the state. Here's a look at the plan.

One of the biggest local wins would be $100 million to improve UB research facilities, as part of Hochuls challenge to the university to bring in $1 billion a year in federal research funding by 2030, and another $24 million for UB capital projects, she said.

If youre going to attract research dollars and investment from the federal government and draw individuals who could go anywhere else in the country, the smartest minds and the greatest researchers, you have to give them world-class facilities, she said.

Hochul also included lots of infrastructure funding for the state and region, including $20 million for the Erie County Water Authority for water infrastructure, $47 million for the Niagara Falls Visitor Center and $3.5 million for an extension trail from the Niagara Falls Crows Nest viewing area.

The priorities outlined by Hochul are not a done deal. State lawmakers will spend the next month hashing out the final budget deal ahead of the state's April 1 budget deadline.

The meeting room at UBs Center for Tomorrow was packed with a whos who of local government, education and community leaders whose support Hochul sought to fight for her plan as it progresses through the state budget process.

A key focus was Hochuls plan to address the housing crisis in the state by assisting municipalities in increasing their housing stock by 1% over the next three years. She said New Yorks success at creating jobs is hampered only by its lack of enough housing for new workers to move here.

She said unemployment stood at 7% when she took over as governor in 2021, and is now down to 3.8% statewide and 3.3% in WNY.

We created 586,000 new jobs in the time that Ive been governor, 23,000 in Western New York, she said. Thats a headline, because when I was growing up it was 23,000 jobs lost, 20,000 jobs lost, Bethlehem Steel almost overnight. Now, we are experiencing a renaissance in contrast to what happened in the past, and its our responsibility to provide the great assets that we need to continue it.

When negotiating with Micron to locate a semiconductor chip manufacturing facility in a Syracuse suburb, Hochul said she promised workers, and that includes engineers and computer programmers, two key areas of growth at UB. Hochul said that is why her budget last year provided $102 million for a new engineering facility at UB, and why she wants to allocate another $124 million to UB in the next fiscal year.

Among other key items in her executive budget:

 Infrastructure: $211 million for state Department of Transportation capital projects across the region, including road repairs and what she termed her war on potholes, saying that the state filled 203,000 potholes in WNY in the past year.

 Mental health: Over $1 billion to transform the states mental health system, including $41 million for Western New York for addiction, recovery and prevention services, and $840,000 for peer-to-peer counseling services for veterans.

 Education: $34.5 billion for education in the state, including $2.9 billion for public school aid in WNY, which will also expand mental health services in schools. The budget would also include $8 million in funding for SUNY Erie Community College, $2.2 million for Niagara County Community College and $228,000 for Jamesville Community College.

 Storm response: $10 million for Buffalo to create a public works recovery facility to help it better handle emergency storm response in the wake of the Christmas blizzard, which was blamed for 47 deaths. This will include fleet improvements to upgrade our resources for the next big one, Hochul said.

 The region: Besides the money for water infrastructure and Niagara Falls tourism, Hochul would allocate $1 million for ArtPark in Lewiston and $24 million for FeedMore of WNYs food distribution center providing healthy food to families and people facing food insecurity.

Hochul said her proposed budget is part of a bigger plan to keep the state growing and a good place to locate.

This budget shows where my priorities are, she said.
Following our widely imitated reveal last week that Hollywood Aussie Russell Crowe had fallen foul of the dress code at Melbourne Asian-fusion joint Mr Miyagi, the management there decided to make the best of what they described as a very unfortunate situation.

Russell Crowe is allowed in after all. Credit: John Shakespeare

The restaurant has mounted a plaque at the front entrance declaring: Dress code: Smart casual, unless youre Russell Crowe and then you can wear whatevs.

Announcing the tweak on Instagram, Miyagi addressed the Rusty One directly.

Dear Russell, during your last visit it seems we got off on the wrong foot. After much reflection on what occurred, we have made a permanent change to our dress code, the Miyagi account wrote.
Weve curated a selection of key stories as part of the NSW election.

Byelections and seat boundary changes have given the upcoming state election an unusual twist: no party heads into the NSW election with a majority in parliament.

Premier Dominic Perrottets incumbent Liberal-National Coalition has a tally of 46 seats  two fewer than it won in 2019 and one short of an outright majority in the Legislative Assembly.

The starting point for Labor is 38 seats  two more than it won last time but still nine shy of a majority.

Another nine seats are held by crossbenchers, including three Greens.
Australias major media bosses united on Monday to push for changes to stop police being able to raid journalists just for doing their jobs, and to fix Australias beleaguered freedom of information regime.

At a closed-door meeting with Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus in Canberra on Monday, executives from publishers including News Corp, The Guardian, the ABC and Nine pressed their case to the government over its proposed reforms to privacy law and commitment to enacting recommendations stemming from the 2019 raids on the ABC and then News Corp journalist Annika Smethurst, who now works for The Age.

ABC managing director David Anderson, journalist Laura Tingle and Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus before a meeting with media organisations. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Dreyfus told the meeting that he had been shocked by those raids.

I think that journalists should never face the prospect of being charged just for doing their jobs and there is agreement across the parliament and indeed the community that improved protections are overdue, Dreyfus said in prepared opening remarks.
Beirut: Senior Arab government figures are in talks with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on bringing his country back into the fold of the Arab world.

Parliamentarians from nine Arab countries, as well as Palestinian representatives, made up a delegation that visited Damascus on Sunday reflecting a continuation in the thawing of relations with Assad, who for over a decade has been isolated from most of the region.

Syria was suspended from the Arab League in 2011 after Assads government cracked down brutally on mass protests against his rule  an uprising that quickly descended into a brutal civil war that continues in pockets of the country. The conflict has killed over 300,000 people and displaced half of its population of 23 million.

Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, right, receives Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the capital Muscat, Oman, last week. Credit: SANA/AP

First to arrive in Damascus was Egypts parliament Speaker Hanafy el-Gebaly, the most senior Egyptian official to visit Syria in over a decade. Iraqs parliament Speaker Mohammed Halbousi  among several Arab leaders who have been calling for Syrias return to the Arab League  headed the delegation.
When Jimmy Carter was president, I was a lowly clerk at The Washington Star. I saw him mostly through the eyes of Pat Oliphant, our brilliant, biting cartoonist. As Carter came to be seen as uncool and fumbling, Oliphant drew the president smaller and smaller in relation to his tormentors  including that killer rabbit.

It taught me an early lesson in the brutality of dwindling power.

Former US president Jimmy Carter during a 2021 reception for the 75th anniversary of his wedding to Rosalynn. Credit: AP

Four decades later, I went one weekend to interview Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, in Plains, Georgia, along with my friend Jerry Rafshoon, who was Carters media wizard.

I watched Carter teach Sunday school at the Baptist church his friends started in the 1970s, after his original church refused to integrate. Some in Plains, disdaining his views on integration, tried to boycott his peanut business, but most came back. I had the best peanuts, he told Rafshoon.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Do you have a plan for a project that contributes to commemorating and celebrating the abolition of slavery in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and/or increasing knowledge and awareness of the history of slavery? Are you an individual, professional, or culture creator who, in your free time, actively participates in activities in the area of cultural participation or cultural education?

If so, you may be eligible for a contribution from the Fund for Cultural Participation's 'Dutch Slavery Past Memorial Year' scheme.

Historic involvement in slavery is a very painful, significant, and - until recently - underexposed part of our shared history. For a whole year, extra attention will be paid to this history throughout the Kingdom: the Slavery Memorial Year will run from 1 July 2023 to 1 July 2024.

June and July 2023 will mark the grand opening of the Slavery Memorial Year across the Kingdom, and July 2024 will mark its close. Through this memorial year, the Government of the Netherlands hopes to contribute to permanently increasing knowledge and interconnectivity within society.

In addition, the Cabinet will make two million euros available for the organization of activities during the Slavery Memorial Year by, for example, community organizations and cultural institutions. This will enable larger institutions and small local initiatives or individuals alike to apply for funding to organize social and/or cultural activities. This will be conducted through two cultural funds: The Mondrian Fund and the Cultural Participation Fund.

On the 3rd of march Dyonna Benett, the subsidy coordinator of the Fund for Cultural Participation will give a presentation about the subsidy scheme.

The subsidy scheme is especially for applicants and communities in Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, Saba, Sint Eustatius, Sint Maarten, and the Netherlands, which have a direct link with the slavery past.

Within the subsidy scheme of the Fund for Cultural Participation, the focus is on participatory activities where participants are actively involved. This subsidy is for initiatives wherein aspects of history and slavery are brought to the fore, that create educational material, stimulate healing processes or set up (international) cooperation between institutions.

NPower and the Cultural Participation Fund invite anyone who has an idea or project with the aim of raising awareness of the slavery past to register for one of the information sessions on Friday, March 3rd to learn more about this funding opportunity. Registration for this free meeting can be done via https://bit.ly/Slavery-Memorial-Year-Fund-Registration

Session 1 will be held from 4:00-5:30 pm and session 2 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.

The information sessions will be held at the R4CR/Samenwerkenden Fondsen office at A.T. Illidge Road 60, Unit 1.1.
PHILIPSBURG:--- From February 28 to March 3, 2023, a delegation of the Parliament of Sint Maarten will participate in the Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultations (IPKO). Delegations from the Parliaments of Aruba, Curacao, the Netherlands, and Sint Maarten will be meeting on Curacao for the IPKO.

The four parliamentary delegations will be discussing several topics that include discussions and presentations on:

Recent developments per country; Better and lasting relationships within the Kingdom: democratic deficit, mutual agreements, and cooperation; a proposal for the Dispute Regulation law; reforms and the Country packages; and the history of slavery and colonialism.

The program will also include a working visit to sites associated with slavery and colonization.

The Interparliamentary Consultations will conclude on Friday, March 3, 2023, with the signing of the agreement list and a joint press conference of the four delegations.

One day prior to the start of the Interparliamentary Consultations (IPKO), the delegations of the Parliaments of Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten will meet in a Tripartite Consultation. During this meeting, the delegations will discuss specific issues affecting these countries, and preparations will be made for the upcoming IPKO.

The Sint Maarten delegation partaking in the IPKO and Tripartite meetings will consist of the following members:

- Mr. Sidharth M. Bijlani, President of Parliament, Delegation leader;

- Mr. Rolando Brison, Vice Chairman of the Committee of Kingdom Affairs and Interparliamentary Relations;

- Mr. Akeem E. Arrindell;

- Mr. Chanel E. Brownbill;

- Ms. Solange L. Duncan;

- Mr. Christophe T. Emmanuel;

- Ms. Melissa D. Gumbs;

- Mrs. Grisha S. Heyliger-Marten;

- Mr. George C. Pantophlet;

- Ms. Ludmila N.L. de Weever;

- Mrs. Sarah A. Wescot-Williams; and Mr. Garrick J. Richardson, LL.M, ML, Secretary General

The Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultations (IPKO) public sessions can be followed live via the link: https://tinyurl.com/ipko2023
PHILIPSBURG:--- A digital citizen uses information technology (IT) to engage in society, politics, and government. As life continues evolving, technology has become a valuable tool in ones daily life. Especially the older generation runs the risk of being left behind in this development. The Sint Maarten library continues to inform patrons of the benefits and safe ways of reading through technology.



For the  time, the Sint Maarten Library is organizing a senior cyber program. Starting March 07th, the senior cyber computer classes will be held at the Belvedere satellite for two days per week beginning, March 07th, 2023, until June 30th, every Tuesday and Friday, 9.00 am- 12.00 pm; the program will be approximately 7-8 weeks. There is a program for beginners and one for advanced.



Since 2013, cardholders of the Sint Maarten Library can borrow ebooks. Our e-books collection consists of digital books and audiobooks. The ebook collection is provided by the US-based company Overdrive. Our digital library consists of 3,000 (mainly English) digital books, and the digital collection of the National Library of the Netherlands (KB) consists of 100.000 (primarily Dutch) digital items, which our cardholders also can borrow. We have reserved access codes for 150 adults and 250 juveniles from KB.



The program focuses on practical technology usage but also includes a comprehensive understanding of digital citizenship, which is the appropriate and responsible behavior when using technology. Since digital citizenship evaluates the quality of an individual's response to membership in a digital community, it often requires the participation of all community members, both visible and those who are less visible. A large part of being a responsible digital citizen encompasses digital literacy, etiquette, online safety, and an acknowledgment of private versus public information.



For more information, go the www.library.sx or visit one of our locations to subscribe.
SIMPSON BAY:--- The ultra-luxury carrier Qatar Airways performed a Spectacular landing at the Princess Juliana International Airport on Friday, February 17, 2023. The long-haul carrier served a direct chartered private flight and is known to have the longest range of the A340-family.

The state-owned flag carrier airline of Qatar is Qatar Airways. The Airbus A340-500 is also a four-engine wide-body airliner with a maximum capacity of 375 passengers.

Director of Operations, Emile Levons  The airline travels to over 150 destinations throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania, using a fleet of more than 200 aircraft. Qatar Airways is produced by the European manufacturer, Airbus S.A.S. headquartered at the Qatar Airways Tower in Doha.

Chief Executive Officer of PJIAE N.V., Brian Mingo, The private jets have increased to nearly 10,000 in 2022, showing signs that it is up from 7,000 annually. The direct flight from Qatar Airways presents the demand for ultra-luxury flights in our region. This is a niche market that the Management of the Princess Juliana International Airport is looking into with the necessary insights from our commercial team and stakeholders. Our award-winning airport provides service to twenty (20) commercial carriers and serves our private flight service through two (2) fixed-based operators, ExecuJet, and Arrindell Aviation by Signature.
Heart disease likely cause of giant panda Le Le's death

By Xu Zheqi (People's Daily App) 10:30, February 27, 2023

The Memphis Zoo in Memphis, US state of Tennessee said that the giant panda Le Le had died early this month. A joint autopsy by Chinese and US experts has showed the cause of death may have been heart disease, but further pathological diagnose is still needed to confirm the cause.

Le Le, a male born in 1998, came to the Memphis Zoo with a female giant panda, Ya Ya. Over the last 20 years Le Le has delighted millions of guests.

(Photos: Xinhua, Global Times)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Nate McMurray, the former Grand Island supervisor who narrowly lost a congressional bid to Republican Chris Collins in 2018, has ended his Democratic candidacy for Erie County executive less than a month after announcing it.

McMurray said Feb. 1 that he would challenge County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz in the June Democratic primary.

Nate McMurray declares Democratic candidacy for county executive Nate McMurray, the former Grand Island supervisor who narrowly lost a congressional bid to Republican Chris Collins in 2018, will challenge County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz in the June Democratic primary.

However, the Erie County Democratic Committee last week snubbed McMurray and endorsed Poloncarz for an unprecedented fourth term. That didn't sit well with McMurray, who this weekend released a video that included secretly recorded audio of the endorsement meeting.

Well, there has been a lot of talk about what I said at the Erie County Democratic Committee meeting, Thank heavens I made a tape! It was a kangaroo court. Totally mismanaged. They sadly (wantonly) exposed their disregard for democracy itself. Some lowlights below: pic.twitter.com/7yEYL4pTSO  Nate McMurray (@Nate_McMurray) February 24, 2023

McMurray spent much of the weekend bashing Poloncarz and Erie County Democrats on Twitter. Then on Monday afternoon, McMurray penned a 25-tweet thread with the headline, "WILL NOT CONTINUE CAMPAIGN; WILL FIGHT OTHER FIGHTS."

"Dear friends, I have decided not to continue running for Erie County Executive," McMurray wrote.

Efforts by The News to reach McMurray by phone after he sent the tweets were unsuccessful.

OPEN LETTER: WILL NOT CONTINUE CAMPAIGN; WILL FIGHT OTHER FIGHTS Dear friends, I have decided not to continue running for Erie County Executive. Please let me explain why.1. I ran because I believe in Erie County and Western New York1  Nate McMurray (@Nate_McMurray) February 27, 2023

After third defeat, McMurray ponders his future  and his party's Nate McMurray is thinking about his future, and the future of the Democratic Party, and he's deeply uncertain about both.

McMurray is widely viewed as a credible force in the Democratic Party, especially among left-leaning progressives attracted by his views throughout his campaigns.

A lawyer in private practice, he previously worked for Delaware North Cos. and has also worked internationally. Still, he remains unwelcome in many establishment sectors of the party.

Poloncarz will face Republican businesswoman Chrissy Casilio of Clarence in November's general election.
Aurania announces events during PDAC 2023

Aurania Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ARU; OTCQB: AUIAF; Frankfurt: 20Q) (aAuraniaa or the aCompanya  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/aurania-resources-ltd/ ) is pleased to announce that it will be attending the Prospectora?s and Developers International Convention (PDAC) being held March 5th a 8th, 2023 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) in Toronto, Canada.A

PDAC Booth Location

Aurania will be exhibiting at booth 2948 in the Investors Exchange located in the MTCC South Building, Level 800.A Please note our new booth location.A For more information about PDAC and registration, please visitA https://www.pdac.ca/convention/registration.

March 5th A a 5:00pm A Shareholder Meet and Greet with Management

Aurania is hosting a meet-and-greet for shareholders on Sunday, March 5th from 5:00pm-8:00pm in Salon 1, 19th Floor, at The Fairmont Royal York Hotel, 100 Front Street West, Toronto, Ontario.A Due to capacity limitations, we kindly ask that you confirm your attendance no later than March 1st by RSVP to info@aurania.com.

March 6th A a 9:05am A Ecuador Day

Ecuador Day will take place on Monday, March 6th at 8:00am ET in Room 206F at the MTCC.A Ecuador Day is being organized and hosted by the Ecuador Chamber of Mines and will run from 8:00am-12:00pm. Representatives from the Government of Ecuador are expected to provide an update on the mining industry in Ecuador during this event.A

March 7th A a 10:00am A Panel on Planning for Sustainable Mineral Development 101

Auraniaa?s Head of CSR, Ms. Carolina Lasso, has been invited to participate in a session sub-topic titled aSetting the stage for success with the S in ESG: Engagement and agreement making in early explorationa on Tuesday, March 7th at 10:00am in Room 715 at the MTCC.

ERM a Environmental Resources Management has put together this two-hour lightning talks panel in collaboration with the PDAC Sustainability Committee.A The panel will feature key sub-topics within the sustainable mining framework explored by junior companies, community members, investors, and expert speakers. Click here for more information.

https://www.pdac.ca/convention/programming/sustainability-program/sessions/sustainability-program/planning-for-sustainable-mineral-development-101

About Aurania

Aurania is a mineral exploration company engaged in the identification, evaluation, acquisition and exploration of mineral property interests, with a focus on precious metals and copper in South America.A Its flagship asset, The Lost Cities a Cutucu Project, is located in the Jurassic Metallogenic Belt in the eastern foothills of the Andes mountain range of southeastern Ecuador.

Information on Aurania and technical reports are available at www.aurania.com and www.sedar.com, as well as on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/auranialtd/, Twitter atA https://twitter.com/auranialtd, and LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/aurania-resources-ltd-.

For further information, please contact:

Carolyn Muir

VP Corporate Development & Investor Relations

Aurania Resources Ltd.

(416) 367-3200

carolyn.muir@aurania.com

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

A
Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an interview broadcast Sunday that after Russia suspended its participation in the last arms control agreement with Washington, it would take into account the nuclear weapons capabilities not only of the United States but of other NATO countries such as France and Britain.

Putin had said in a speech suspending Russia's role in the 2010 New START treaty earlier this week that France and Britain, not parties to the agreement, had joined the United States in targeting Russia with nuclear weapons. In an interview with Russian TV that was recorded Wednesday and broadcast Sunday, he said he took the action to "preserve our country, ensure security and strategic stability" and added:

In todays conditions, when all the leading NATO countries have declared their main goal to inflict a strategic defeat on us, to make our people suffer ... how can we not take into account their nuclear capabilities? Moreover, they supply weapons to Ukraine worth tens of billions of dollars.

Putin was repeating his common theme that the West is bent on destroying Russia and that his one-year-old fight in Ukraine is part of a battle for Russia's very survival. He argued a year ago that his overarching goal in invading Ukraine was to reduce what he perceived as threats to Russia's security and has since cited those as justification for potentially using nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

As Western military aid poured into the invaded country, the Russian leader and his foreign minister have portrayed the war as a de facto fight between Russia and not just Ukraine but NATO. Ukraine's allies have emphasized they want to avoid becoming direct fighting parties in the war while equipping Ukraine to defend itself and to retake Russian-captured territory.

CIA Director William Burns said Sunday that the real issue behind the invasion is Putin's loss of control over Ukraine and the country's rise as an independent, democratic state aligned with the West.

Hes seen that as a direct threat to the ambition that cuts to the core of his view as a Russian leader, and I think thats the backdrop to the horrific aggression that hes launched, Burns said on CBS' Face the Nation.

New START is the last remaining arms control agreement between Moscow and Washington. In suspending his country's participation, Putin said Russia cant accept U.S. inspections of its nuclear sites under the pact while Washington and its NATO allies seek Russias defeat in Ukraine.

The Russian president emphasized that Moscow was not withdrawing from the pact, and the Russian Foreign Ministry said the country would respect the treaty's caps on nuclear weapons and continue notifying the U.S. about test launches of ballistic missiles.

In the interview with Russia 1, Putin said that while NATO countries are not party to the New START treaty, they engaged in discussions on the issue."

Putin alleged the West wants to eliminate Russia, a notion that he has repeatedly used to justify Russian aggression in Ukraine. They have one goal: to disband the former Soviet Union and its fundamental part  the Russian Federation, Putin said.

Appealing to his citizenry's nationalistic sentiments, Putin predicted that if the West succeeds in destroying Russia and establishing control, ethnic Russians may not survive as a distinct people.

There will be Muscovites, Uralians and others, he said of Russias possible fragmentation into regional groupings. The West could only partly accept Russia into the so-called family of civilized peoples, breaking the country into separate pieces, he theorized.

Claiming threats to Russians' survival is a favorite Putin theme, and Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, noted in a recent interview with The Associated Press that for him, its all about protection, and he believes that the Russian world has been attacked from the West, and Ukrainians are a part of this Russian world.

Claiming the West and not Russia provoked the war in Ukraine is also a favorite Putin theme that many Russians buy into, said Fiona Hill, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution who served in the past three U.S. presidential administrations.

They think that this is a war of them yet again defending their territory, as it has been since time immemorial, since the Mongol invasion of having to deal with invaders when they are the ones that are doing the invading, Hill said in a recent AP interview.

In a speech Tuesday, the Russian leader alleged that a NATO statement on New START had raised the issue of the nuclear weapons of Britain and France, which are part of the alliances nuclear capability but arent included in the U.S.-Russian pact.

Putins frequent references to nuclear weapons fit a pattern that Hill has identified.

Hes kind of menacing the world on every nuclear frontier because he knows that thats the ultimate psychological weapon, Hill said. Nuclear weapons are pretty effective politically.

U.S. President Joe Biden countered some of Putin's claims in a speech in Poland's capital, Warsaw, on Tuesday.

The United States and the nations of Europe do not seek to control or destroy Russia. The West was not plotting to attack Russia, as Putin said today," Biden said. "And millions of Russian citizens who only want to live in peace with their neighbors are not the enemy."

CIA Director William Burns told CBS' Face the Nation in an interview that aired Sunday that Putin was being too confident in his military's ability to grind Ukraine into submission.

Burns said the head of Russia's intelligence services had displayed in their November meeting a sense of cockiness and hubris that reflected Putin's own beliefs that he can make time work for him, that he believes he can grind down the Ukrainians, that he can wear down our European allies, that political fatigue will eventually set in.

That conversation, in which Burns warned of the consequences if Russia were to deploy a nuclear weapon in Ukraine, was pretty dispiriting, Burns said.

Vladimir Putin's history of conflict with former Soviet nations: the timeline and human cost Vladimir Putin's history of conflict with former Soviet nations: the timeline and human cost 1999: War of Dagestan 1999-2009: Second Chechen War 2008: Russo-Georgian War 2009-2017: War in the North Caucasus 2014-present: Russo-Ukraine War
Hazleton, PA (18201)

Today

Intervals of clouds and sunshine. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 73F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy with periods of rain. Low 51F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
The agri-food products from Ukraine must be subject to sanitary-veterinary controls in customs in order not to endanger the health of the population by consuming products obtained from raw materials that do not comply with the production standards required of producers in the European Union, the representatives of the Alliance for Agriculture and Cooperation say in a letter addressed to the authorities.

"We must all be aware that the products that remain in Romania through this transit corridor were not produced in the same quality standards imposed by the European Union on European farmers, being plant protection products banned in the EU, accepted limits for pesticide residues different from the EU, with the permission to cultivate genetically modified organisms, etc.," the document states.

According to the quoted source, as an adverse effect of this transit corridor, Romanian farmers were left with important stocks of grain, with the prices received for Romanian goods being greatly reduced due to the availability of goods from Ukraine, and Romania from being a net exporter turned into a net importer.

"We cannot be sustainable if we sell at a loss, below production costs," say the representatives of the Alliance for Agriculture.

According to the organization, if the European Commission decided solidarity and humanitarian support for Ukraine, the same Commission must also take care of the farmers in the East, who are in a difficult situation.

At the same time, the representatives of the alliance request the monitoring, counting and control of food safety for agricultural and agri-food products that are in "transit" or imported from Ukraine, the simplification of the application of the safeguard clause in case it distorts the market as at present and to take the necessary measures for to comply with the same conditions/restrictions as EU products, because they produce contamination, pest infestations, diseases that create very big problems in the long term.

According to the Alliance for Agriculture and Cooperation, following the European Commission's proposal to extend the elimination of customs tariffs for the transit and import of agricultural and agri-food products from Ukraine, farmers and agricultural cooperatives in Romania are facing major problems.

Thus, starting from March 2022, the high costs for logistics/distribution services, the absence of logistic availability, the large price reductions for Ukrainian goods that literally suffocate the Romanian market have seriously affected the market of local products and implicitly the revenues of the agri-food sector in Romania.

"Until now, the costs of this corridor of solidarity have not been felt equitably between the member states, the most affected being the states with a common border," the signatories of the letter claim.

In the case of Romania, although there are quality standards established at the European level and implicitly high production costs, farmers do not have access to the benefits of the single European market, in the absence of a logistic infrastructure that allows this.AGERPRES
The Bucharest Metropolitan Library (BMB) this March will host a series of cultural and educational events generically called "Francophonie Days" to mark 30 years since Romania's accession to the La Francophonie Organisation, told Agerpres.

March 6-31, at the BMB arts hall a "Mircea Eliade Collection - Paris Library" exhibition will be mounted of Eliade's books, letters, manuscripts, diaries and personal items from the collection of the Paris Library.

March 1-31, there will be an outdoor exhibition called "Romanian cultural figures from the French-speaking area in the collections of the Bucharest Metropolitan Library" and on March 30 in the evening the public is invited to a classical music show, with arias and songs in French, both at the Mihail Sadoveanu main offices.

The BMB Elena Vacarescu Branch will play host to a series of meetings March 13-18 and March 27-31 called "Dialogues about French-speaking culture and civilisation", in which students of the Nicolae Kretzulescu High School of Business in Bucharest will participate.

Parents and children, along with guests from educational establishments are expected at the "Francophone Storytime" on March 7, at the Ion Creanga Branch and on March 22, at the Emil Garleanu Branch.

The events dedicated to the International Day of Francophonie are organised by the Department of Culture, Education, Tourism of the Bucharest City Hall.
The Chamber of Deputies and the Senate will meet in joint session on Monday to mark one year since the start of the Russian Federation's military aggression against Ukraine, told Agerpres.

The joint meeting is scheduled to start at 5.00 pm.

The decision was taken on Saturday at a joint meeting of the standing bureaus of the two chambers.

On February 20, the vice-president of the Chamber of Deputies, USR (Save Romania Union) deputy Dan Barna, announced that he requested the presidents of the two Chambers to adopt a declaration in the plenary of Parliament to show the clear support for Ukraine, noting that it is necessary for Romania to have a firmer voice when it comes to what happens at the eastern border of our country.

"It's been a year since Russia attacked an independent state, since the war in Ukraine began and, in this context, I have submitted to the presidents of the two Chambers and the standing bureaus a proposal for a declaration by the Romanian Parliament to express once again very clearly and explicitly Romania's solidarity and support towards Ukraine and towards the despair of a people who, for a year now, have been chased away, killed, their children kidnapped, their civil infrastructure destroyed. I hope that this declaration becomes a reality," said Barna.
The representatives of the ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitization from Romania and those of the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology from the State of Israel signed a Memorandum of Understanding for a scientific cooperation program.

"A new joint funding program for Romanian-Israeli cooperative applied scientific research will be launched, through which the exchange of experience will be promoted in the fields of applied scientific research that both parties consider important in order to achieve sustainable growth and development in fields such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, green energy (hydrogen), laser physics, etc. Research areas will be mutually selected and, following a joint decision of both parties, may include supporting joint research projects led by scientists from both countries, supporting joint seminars, symposia and other scientific meetings, activities aimed at supporting the inclusion and participation of Romania and/or Israel in various other programs related to research and innovation," informs a press release of the MCID.

Being on a working visit to Israel, between February 25-28, the minister of Research, Innovation and Digitization, Sebastian Burduja, had meetings with Ofir Akunis, the minister of Innovation, Science and Technology of the State of Israel, as well as with other high representatives and dignitaries from the Ministry of Communications and the National Directorate for Cyber Security.

On Tuesday, the Romanian delegation will have meetings with representatives of the university environment, at Tel Aviv University and at the Technion University in Haifa.AGERPRES
As many as 89,586 people, including 6,636 Ukrainian citizens, entered Romania on Sunday, February 26, the General Border Police Inspectorate (IGPF) reported on Monday.

According to IGPF, at the border points nationwide on Monday, nearly 177,000, Romanian and foreign citizens, were checked both on the way in and on the way out of Romania, as well as more than 46,150 means of transport, told Agerpres.

Starting February 10, 2022 (pre-conflict time) 3,633,822 Ukrainian citizens entered Romania.

The border police detected 49 illegal acts (27 crimes and 22 misdemeanors) in the areas under their jurisdiction - the crossing points and the green border - committed by both Romanian and foreign citizens, levying more than RON 16,680 in fines in the process.

Assets of an estimated value of RON 392,800 were impounded.

Thirteen foreign citizens who did not meet the conditions provided by the law were denied entry.

Also on Sunday, 19 Romanian citizens were not allowed to leave for various legal reasons.
The community of the Politehnica University of Bucharest, a member of the EELISA Alliance, held, on Monday, at 12.00 pm, a moment of silence to honour the memory of the victims of the earthquakes that took place in Turkey and Syria, as it is about to launch a campaign for collection of in-kind donations, told Agerpres.

"Approximately 50,000 deaths have been reported in Turkey and Syria in total, a number that is expected to rise. In the context of this regrettable incident, the EELISA Alliance's response to the tragedy that struck one of our partners, Istanbul Technical University (ITU), is solidarity. Thus, the rectors, presidents and directors of EELISA member universities have declared February 27 as a day of mourning. This international mobilization expresses compassion and solidarity towards our community partners and, starting on Monday, February 27, we will launch a fundraising campaign of aid and donations. To signal the beginning of this campaign, all EELISA member universities will observe, on Monday, February 27, at 12.00 pm, a minute of silence in memory of the tens of thousands of victims who lost their lives in this terrible tragedy. Also, the member institutions will fly the national flag at half-mast," informs a press release of the Politehnica University of Bucharest (UPB).

UPB rector Mihnea Costoiu stated that the entire community of the higher education institution stands in solidarity with all those affected by the tragedy in Turkey and Syria.

"As EELISA members, together with our partners within the Alliance, we support the deeply affected population, as well as the students and professors of the Istanbul Technical University (ITU), a group of extraordinary people who have already become our close partners. (...) Together we can change many destinies," said the rector of the Politehnica University of Bucharest, quoted in the press release.

The European Engineering Learning Innovation and Science Alliance (EELISA) is the first alliance of higher education institutions from different countries in Europe, aimed at defining and implementing a common European engineering model.

"In these difficult moments, the rector of ITU, Prof. Ismail Koyuncu, asked for support so that students can resume their academic lives. Thus, the members of our community will contribute to alleviating the suffering of the affected population and rebuilding the vital infrastructure for ITU, and the goal of this common action is to unite in solidarity. We send our sincere condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives and we stand with the injured, but also with the rescue teams who worked day and night against the clock," the same press release states.

EELISA - European Engineering Learning Innovation and Science Alliance (https://eelisa.eu/) is a university alliance initially made up of nine universities: Politehnica University of Bucharest, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Universite Paris Sciences et Lettres, Istanbul Teknik Universitesi, Scuola Normale Superiore, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nurnberg, Ecole des Ponts ParisTech; Budapesti Muszaki es Gazdasagtudomanyi Egyetem. Since last year, Zurcher Hochschule fur Angewandte Wissenschaften has also joined the alliance.
90 Day: Debbie's Son Mocks 'Manipulating' Osama

TLC

Age is but a number for 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way's couple Debbie and Oussama  no matter how hesitant her loved ones might be.

On Sunday night's episode, 67-year-old Debbie met with a lawyer to discuss a prenuptial agreement to assuage her worried son Julian's concerns that she is being scammed by her 24-year-old fiance Oussama.

A week before Debbie's move to Morocco to be with Oussama, Julian accompanied her to a meeting with lawyer Gina, who helped the two understand how to protect Debbie's assets. Suffice it to say, Julian was deeply skeptical.

"Your lawyer's not going to convince me you should marry this guy," Julian told his mom as they drove together to the appointment.

Though Debbie admitted her son could be "rough around the edges" and say hurtful things, she knew he was only doing so because he didn't want to see her get hurt.

RELATED: 90 Day: Crystal-Loving 67-Year-Old Debbie Defends Love for 24-Year-Old Oussama as Son Says It 'Makes Me Sick'

Debbie and Oussama, 90 Day: The Other Way Season 4

TLC

Julian raised concerns that Moroccan officials might not honor the prenup since it was signed in Georgia. Gina could only promise that as long as Debbie's assets remained in the state, they could not be touched.

Though Julian wasn't reassured, Debbie didn't waver in her confidence that this was the right move, pointing out that she didn't believe Oussama would be able to immigrate to the U.S.

"It'd be wonderful if I could bring Oussama to the U.S., but they're going to look at my date of birth and his date of birth, and it's going to be almost impossible for him to get a visa," Debbie said. "This love has landed in my lap, I'd be crazy to stay here!"

Despite Debbie's confidence in her relationship, Julian confessed to Gina that he believed Oussama was "manipulating" his mother, muttering that he was a "child."

"Obviously this guy is very manipulating, he's already manipulated my mom to move over there," Julian told Gina. "What's to say he doesn't manipulate to transfer money later on, how is that protected?"

Story continues

RELATED: 90 Day: The Other Way Season 4 Features Coming Out Story, 43-Year Age Gap and 'Surreal' Life Changes

Debbie, however, wanted to know whether, in the case that her marriage did have a "fairy tale" ending, how would she be able to her money with Oussama  who was currently an unemployed artist and poet  down the line?

Gina recommended a joint account, to which an exasperated Julian said the situation was the "stupidest thing [he's] ever heard in [his] entire life."

As the episode wrapped up, Julian admitted he was worried his mother already shared some of her funds with him and wasn't being fully transparent.

"I don't trust Oussama," he said. "Not one bit."

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.

90 Day Fiance: The Other Way airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on TLC.
In Luxembourg today, President Klaus Iohannis is meeting Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and participating as a keynote speaker in the first edition of the European Investment Bank Group Forum, told Agerpres.

The meeting will be followed by a joint news conference of the two officials.

"The meeting of the President of Romania with the prime minister of Luxembourg will be dedicated to discussing current affairs on the bilateral, European and international agenda. Priority topics in the Romanian-Luxembourg relationship will be addressed, mainly the dynamism of economic and sectoral co-operation, with emphasis on finance and fin-tech, cutting-edge technologies and tourism. In the context of threats to European security caused by the Russian aggression in Ukraine, the latest developments, measures to support Ukraine, support for Moldova, as well as the expansion of Romania-Luxembourg defence co-operation within NATO will also be tackled," according to the Romanian Presidential Administration.

In the evening, Iohannis will address the first-ever edition of the European Investment Bank Group Forum as a keynote speaker.

The theme of the event is "Adapting to a Changing World," with the forum being conceived as a platform for reflection on challenges and opportunities at a global level and the effects on the investment agenda of the European Union.

On the sidelines of the EIB event, Iohannis will also have bilateral meetings with EIB President Werner Hoyer, as well as President of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Odile Renaud-Basso.
Prime minister Nicolae Ciuca met, on Monday, at the Victoria Palace of Government, with the leaders of trade unions in the defence and the aerospace industry, with the situation of the Romanian state companies in these sectors of activity being analysed on this occasion, informs a press release of the government.

"The defence and aerospace industries must be supported through investments, new technologies and motivated specialists, that will ensure the continuation of our tradition, but also provide performance and competitiveness prospects to Romanian products. In this sense, research and development activities, including the Artificial intelligence component, along with partnerships with relevant companies at the European and global level, will have to be doubled by a revised, coherent and unitary legislative framework, which will reduce bureaucracy and strengthen national production capabilities. The government strongly supports the necessary investments in the defence industry, because a strong defence system needs a matching industry," said the prime minister, as quoted in the press release.

In their turn, the trade union representatives appreciated the value of government funding in these fields, emphasizing the importance of professional management in the leadership of companies in the two sectors.

"They signaled the need to allow specialists to be able to harness their accumulated experience for as long as possible, but also to generate an attractive framework for the new generations of engineers and experts in the field of defence and aerospace industry," the release further mentions.AGERPRES
A C-130 Hercules aircraft of the Romanian Air Force on Monday carried out an international humanitarian assistance mission in support of Syria, flying medicines and other medical supplies intended for those affected by a major earthquake on February 6, the Romanian Defence Ministry (MApN) reports.

The mission was conducted at the request of the Emergency Management Department (DSU), with the aircraft taking off from the 90th Otopeni Air Base at around 08:00hrs, EET, bound for Beirut, Lebanon, told Agerpres.

The donation of medicines was made via Romania's Ministry of Health, by privately-owned pharmaceutical companies, namely Zentiva Group, Antibiotice Iasi and Terapia S.A.

DSU through the General Emergency Management Inspectorate (IGSU) in its capacity as the national contact point on the part of Romania, received from the Emergency Response Coordination Centre of the European Commission (ERCC), through the Common Emergency Communication and Information System (CECIS), a request from Syria for international assistance, considering the aftermath of the over 7-magnitude earthquake that jolted the country.
As many as 5,211 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were recorded in the February 20-26, 2023 week in Romania, with over 70,000 RT-PCR and rapid antigenic tests performed, the Health Ministry informed on Monday.

Of the new cases, 2,030 were in re-infected patients, who tested positive more than 90 days after the first time they recovered from the disease, told Agerpres.

As of February 26, 3,340,342 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus were confirmed in Romania.

- Hospitalisations -

As many as 1,181 people with COVID-19, including 106 children, are hospitalised in Romania at specialist care facilities.

Out of the total number of hospitalised patients, 141 patients, including three children, are in intensive care.

Of the 141 patients admitted to ICU, 115 are unvaccinated against COVID-19.

- Deaths -

According to the ministry, 29 Romanians - 13 men and 16 women - infected with SARS-CoV-2 are reported dead in the week.

Deaths by age groups: two in the age group 50-59 years, six in the age group 60-69 years, six in the age group 70-79 years, and 15 in the age group over 80 years.

All deaths were in patients with comorbidities.

Of the deceased patients, 14 were vaccinated.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 67,704 people diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 infection have died in Romania.
Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Marcel Ciolacu discussed on Monday with President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev about three energy projects, including the one regarding the contract for the purchase of one billion cubic meters of gas, contract which is to be unfolded as of April, for one year, told Agerpres.

"Romania has an extraordinary chance to become the gateway to the European Union for gas and energy from Azerbaijan. Thus, we can become an important regional actor in ensuring the energy security of Europe. Today, I have discussed with President Ilham Aliyev about three major energy projects. The first one is related to the contract for the purchase of one billion cubic meters of gas, contract which is to be unfolded from April, for one year. I proposed that, through this contract, we help the Republic of Moldova and President Aliyev supported our proposal," Ciolacu wrote on his Facebook page.

He added that the second project discussed with the president of Azerbaijan is aimed at the transmission of liquefied gas, namely the partnership between Romagaz and SOCAR regarding the construction of two terminals at the Black Sea (liquefied natural gas and a re-gasification plant).

"The third project aims at developing the infrastructure of the submarine transmission cable through the Black Sea necessary to the transmission of green energy, through Romania, from the Caspian Sea toward Europe. Today, Transgaz and Transelectrica specialists (members of our delegation) shall elaborate on the technical discussions with the Azerbaijani side," Ciolacu wrote.

Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Marcel Ciolacu is paying an official visit on Monday and Tuesday to the Republic of Azerbaijan, at the invitation extended by Azerbaijani Speaker of the National Assembly Sahiba Gafarova.
CLAYTON  Centene Corp. expects to lose millions of Medicaid customers when state governments resume reviewing recipients eligibility in April after a three-year hiatus, setting off a period of rebalancing for health insurers.

The Clayton-based health insurer said this month that it hopes to regain some customers who switch to Affordable Care Act exchange plans.

Other health insurance companies are making similar predictions.

California-based Molina told investors that new Medicaid membership from new contracts and acquisitions will be mostly offset by Medicaid eligibility reviews known as redeterminations. Kentucky-based Humana said that membership added from two new contracts will be similarly offset.

Medicaid membership grew dramatically at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, when companies laid off workers and unemployment spiked, qualifying millions for public health care. Throughout the pandemic, states have been prevented from disenrolling people who didnt specifically request it.

Starting April 1, states can restart reviewing and disenrolling people who no longer qualify for Medicaid based on financial, age or other criteria.

Of Centenes 27 million members, 16 million come from Medicaid. The company estimated that it will have added about 3.4 million Medicaid members since the onset of the pandemic, Chief Financial Officer Drew Asher told investors during a recent call.

The company expects to lose around 2.2 million members during the redetermination process, over the course of about 18 months, Asher said.

The company expects to retain 200,000 to 300,000 members through its marketplace business, said Julie Utterback, senior equity analyst at Morningstar Research Services.

The company has been preparing for this eventuality throughout 2022, Utterback said in an email.

Thats similar to other health insurers forecasts, but the timeline will also depend on how different states carry out the Medicaid reviews.

The process is filled with unknowns. Over the past three years, people moved across state lines, aged into qualifying for Medicare, aged out of the Medicaid threshold for minors, and had significant changes in income.

The Urban Institute in December forecast 18 million people in the U.S. would lose Medicaid coverage in the 14 months after redeterminations begin. The Kaiser Family Foundation in May predicted between 5 million and 14 million in the first year of the reviews. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in August estimated 15 million.

Plus, each state will have its own process.

There really are a lot of variables, said Joel Ferber, director of advocacy at Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, who specializes in Medicaid. How well do the phone centers work? How complicated is the paperwork?

This is the first time states have suspended redeterminations for multiple years, said Sidney Watson, a professor at the Center for Health Law Studies at St. Louis University.

All of these numbers are estimates, Watson said.
ST. CLAIR COUNTY  The gunman who killed himself after fatally shooting a co-worker and critically injuring a Dupo police officer on Sunday was also convicted of killing a customer outside a strip club in 2009.

Reginald O. Allen, 40, was armed with an AR-15 rifle Sunday afternoon during a crime spree that included multiple shootings, a getaway Bobcat and the theft of a police patrol car, authorities said.

Allen on Sunday shot and killed Darryl T. Mantz, 46, of Belleville, in a yard in the 400 block of McBride Avenue, three blocks from Allen's home, police said. Allen and Mantz worked together rehabbing homes.

Allen then drove away on the same Bobcat  a piece of construction equipment also known as a skid steer  that he'd driven to the home on McBride. He smashed the vehicle into a fence as he was headed toward Interstate 255, police said, and abandoned it under the highway.

When a Dupo police officer confronted him, Allen shot the officer in the shoulder and neck and stole the officer's car, authorities said. At some point during an hourslong standoff at Allen's home, Allen died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, said Master Sgt. Brad Clossen of the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department.

The Dupo officer was in critical condition Monday at a St. Louis hospital but is expected to survive, said Dennis Plew, the police chief of Dupo. The officer is 49 and has been in law enforcement for 12 years, including stints with the Roxana and Cahokia police departments.

"He's looking at more surgeries down the road," Plew said. "He should have a full recovery, it's just going to be over a long, long period of time.'

Allen was found dead inside his garage at 769 McBride Avenue.

He was known to law enforcement well before Sunday afternoon's shooting.

Allen was a bouncer at an East St. Louis strip club owned by his family. He killed Anthony Rice outside the club, the now-shuttered City Nights, with his pickup truck in October 2009.

Allen was initially charged with reckless homicide but later pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of mob action. He was sentenced in 2016 to serve one year in prison.

Allen, a white man, had taunted Rice, a Black man, and his brother with racial comments. During the resulting fight, one of Rices friends pulled out a gun and fired into the air. According to police reports, Allen ran back through the club to a rear lot, pulled his truck around, chased Rice around a utility pole and fatally struck him in the road. Allen told police he was only trying to avoid being shot and didnt know if he hit Rice.

St. Louis alderman and attorney Michael Gras weighed in on Allen's latest crimes on Twitter Monday.

"Not exaggerating when I say he was one of the worst people I ever encountered," Gras posted.

Gras' former law firm represented Rice's family.

"That whole incident was just horrific," Gras told the Post-Dispatch. "He was violent; he was racist. He certainly deserved more than a year for that."

Sunday's shootings had no racial overtones, Clossen said; both the victim and suspect were white.

But police were left Monday to sort out what may have sparked Allen's rage.

Were looking into whether it was money-related, drug-related, a female issue, Clossen said. Were not sure, so were looking into every aspect of it.

Relatives for Allen and Mantz could not be reached Monday.

As a felon, Allen should not have had a gun. How he obtained the rifle is one of many questions investigators are trying to answer.

The home where Mantz was killed is next door to one owned by Allen's mother and being rehabbed by Allen.

Neighbors who saw Mantz get shot told investigators it happened quickly.

"No confrontation, no yelling, just shooting," Clossen said.

When Allen stole the officer's car, the officer's rifle was still inside of it. He parked the vehicle in his driveway, then barricaded himself in his home.

Police surrounded Allen's home and got a warrant to search it. At about 9:20 p.m., they went inside and didn't find him. Then police entered the garage and found Allen dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Clossen said.

No shots were fired at officers during the standoff. Police don't know how soon into the standoff Allen killed himself. They found the AR-15 next to his body, Clossen said.

The neighborhood on McBride, in unincorporated St. Clair County, is northeast of Highway 3 and I-255 and about 7 miles from St. Louis. More than a dozen law enforcement and EMS agencies were at the scene.

Residents waited in their cars and at a nearby gas station for word of when they could return to their homes. Residents were allowed to return to their homes by midnight.

Post-Dispatch reporter Annika Merrilees contributed to this report.
A Black former Rockwood School District administrator who resigned amid a wave of harassment and threats from parents and the public is suing the district for discrimination, saying officials there failed to respond until white employees also asked for help, and that the district has completed its capitulation to the racist mob.

Brittany Hogan, who resigned from Rockwood School District in April 2021, is seeking damages from the district and argues that its conduct violated state laws against race-based harassment, discrimination and retaliation. Hogan served as the districts director of educational equity and diversity.

As the only black woman in district leadership, I am concerned and uncomfortable of how quickly Ive become the scapegoat of white rage, Hogan wrote in an email to the district after she began receiving racist and threatening messages.

A spokesperson for Rockwood said the district is aware of the lawsuit but cannot comment on pending litigation. Rockwood covers western St. Louis County, and with approximately 20,000 students, is the third-largest district in Missouri.

Rockwood continued to stay silent about Ms. Hogans targeted mistreatment, the lawsuit says. Rockwood punished Ms. Hogan for her complaints by ignoring her and subsequently excluding her from important meetings where her input would previously have been important, stripping her of her job responsibilities, and constructively discharging her.

A lawyer representing Hogan declined to comment on the lawsuit. But the complaint filed in St. Louis County court catalogs a long list of instances when Hogan said she reported racist behavior and threats that she faced.

She began working at Rockwood in 2012 and received multiple promotions during her tenure. But her relationship with Rockwood unraveled during the 2020-2021 school year, with controversy emerging shortly after the district chose to have middle school and high school students  and any interested community members  read a book called Stamped in December 2020, through its One Read initiative that promotes shared readership of a single book.

The book seeks to portray the lives of prominent figures in American history and the way in which their lives were impacted by systemic racism, according to the lawsuit.

Although Hogan had no role in the choice of the book, she helped to promote it through a school Twitter account, along with other Rockwood employees.

Soon, Hogan and her secretary began to receive threatening and profane messages online, over the phone, and by email, the lawsuit says. Hogan was also informed of a parent alerting a school principal of a social media post that mentioned hanging and lynching, using as a reference the tree on the Rockwood logo. That tip said the Rockwood Concerned Parents Facebook page had been directing hate speech and negativity at Ms. Hogan and one other high-ranking Black employee of Rockwood, the lawsuit says.

The filing describes months of continued harassment with no intervention from Rockwood, despite officials being notified of the messages, and direct pleas from Hogan for them to step up and address what was happening.

Hogan was asked to stay away from Eureka High School, according to the suit, as it was a particular location of racist invective from parents. This severely limited Ms. Hogans work, as Eureka is the central office of the entire district and is also where the board meetings were held.

Issues didnt solely emanate from outside of the school district, according to the lawsuit. A school librarian allegedly refused to promote the One Read effort  and later declined to support a celebration of Asian History Month  because she said those actions could affect her husbands standing in a local police department.

Meanwhile, key district administrators are accused not only of indifference, but also of treating Hogans plight as a win for Rockwood and conveying that if she didnt want to come to work, she should quit, so the district no longer had to pay her, the lawsuit says.

Hogan resigned in April of that school year. The lawsuit says the districts school board expressed support for faculty the following month, only after white teachers and union members came forward with complaints about abuse they were also receiving.

Racial tension at Rockwood is not limited to Hogan or her time working there, the lawsuit states. Since her departure, it says there has been a mass exodus of other Black personnel.

And the lawsuit says that, in October, the Rockwood Board of Education completed its capitulation to the racist mob by cutting three previously approved programs that were intended to help Black students at Rockwood who faced discrimination and other social woes.
ST. LOUIS  A man was charged on Monday with killing his brother earlier this month in St. Louis' Carondelet neighborhood.

Brad Evans, 33, is charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the death of his older brother, Kenneth Evans, 36.

Kenneth Evans crashed his car on the afternoon of Feb. 4 at South Broadway and Bates Street. When police responded to the crash, they found him suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kenneth Evans lived in the 100 block of of Bellerive Boulevard, near where he was killed.
ST. LOUIS  A male victim was found shot in the head and killed in St. Louis Baden neighborhood Sunday morning, St. Louis police said.

The victim was located at the 8200 block of Frederick Street shortly after 9 a.m. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Anyone with information is asked to call the homicide division directly at 314-444-5371. Anyone with a tip who wants to remain anonymous and is interested in a reward can contact CrimeStoppers at 866-371-8477.
San Quentin's death lethal injection facility is shown before being dismantled at San Quentin State Prison on March 13, 2019. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation via Getty Images

A new Idaho bill would bring back firing squads, a rarely seen method of execution.

The state has been struggling to get the drugs needed to carry out executions by lethal injection.

A GOP lawmaker backing the bill called firing squads "more humane" than lethal injection.

A new Idaho bill would bring back the extremely rare execution method of firing squads  and a GOP lawmaker backing the proposed legislation called it a "more humane" option than lethal injection.

The bill was introduced this month after Idaho put off the execution of a death row inmate and convicted murderer because it couldn't obtain the necessary lethal injection chemicals.

"The way it stands now, they may never get those materials for the lethal injections," the bill's sponsor, Republican Rep. Bruce Skaug, told the House Ways and Means Committee last week, according to the Associated Press.

Skaug added, "This is a rule of law issue: Our criminal system should work and our penalty should be exacted."

In Idaho, the only legal form of execution currently is by lethal injection. Under the newly proposed bill, execution would be carried out by a firing squad if it is determined that the lethal injection method is "unavailable."

As Skaug advocated to bring back firing squads in Idaho, he said that he believed it to be a "more humane" execution method.

"There can be about 10 seconds of extreme pain before death at times, but I find it to be, in my personal view, more humane than lethal injection," Skaug said, according to the AP.

In recent years, states across the US have faced a shortage of drugs used in lethal injections, causing them to adopt new lethal injection methods or other alternative execution methods, according to the Death Penalty Information Center.

The death penalty is legal in 27 states throughout the US, and just four states  Mississippi, Oklahoma, Utah, and South Carolina  allow firing squads. However, the law in South Carolina is currently on hold after it was challenged.

Story continues

According to the Death Penalty Information Center, all states and the federal government use lethal injection as their primary method of execution where it is legal. Lethal injection also has the highest rate of botched executions, according to experts.

Experts have warned that botched lethal injection executions, which can cause severe pain, could violate the 8th Amendment ban on cruel and unusual punishment, as Insider has previously reported.

Last year, two Oklahoma death row inmates sought death by firing squad over lethal injection. Their attorney said at the time, "While it may be gruesome to look at, we all agree it will be quicker."

Idaho legalized firing squads in 1982, but later banned the method

Execution by firing squad was legalized in Idaho in 1982, but it was banned in 2009, and the state never used its firing squad during that time. Lethal injection was used in 1994 for the sole execution carried out between 1982 and 2009, according to the Idaho Capital Sun.

Late last year, state officials in Idaho were forced to cancel the scheduled execution of convicted double-murderer Gerald Pizzuto Jr., who is terminally ill, because they could not get the drugs needed for lethal injection.

Pizzuto, 66, was served with a new death warrant last week scheduling his execution for March 23  and the state is still working to obtain the lethal injection chemicals.

The Idaho Department of Correction is "not in possession of the chemicals necessary to carry out an execution by lethal injection," the department said in a February 24 press release, explaining, "Efforts to lawfully source chemicals are ongoing."

Pizzuto is one of eight inmates currently on death row in Idaho.

Read the original article on Insider
ST. LOUIS  A man was shot and killed Monday morning in downtown St. Louis by a gunman with whom he had fought minutes earlier, police said.

Police responding to a shooting call shortly after 10 a.m. in the 700 block of North Tucker Boulevard found the man shot outside, Maj. Ryan Cousins said at the scene of the shooting. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Tucker was closed to traffic at Convention Plaza and Washington Avenue; the man's body was found on the sidewalk in front of The Globe Building.

"Any homicide is unnerving," Cousins said, "but for this one to happen here, at this time, very much so."

Witnesses of the shooting told police the man was shot by a gunman after the two fought minutes earlier down the street near a Shell gas station on Convention Plaza, Cousins said. The man was chased across the street before being shot. Police have not learned what sparked the argument.

Witnesses provided police a description of the gunman, Cousins said.

The victim, a man in his 40s, is believed to have been unhoused, Cousins said. Police have not publicly identified him, pending notification of kin.

The Shell gas station attracted the attention of authorities in 2020 as a nuisance property, with nearly 450 calls for police or emergency service from September 2019 to September 2020.
UPDATED at 7:45 a.m. Monday with suspect dead, new details about confrontation

ST. CLAIR COUNTY  A gunman killed a man in his neighborhood Sunday afternoon, then shot and seriously injured a Dupo police officer before barricading himself in his garage for an hourslong standoff with police, authorities said.

The standoff ended about 10 p.m. Sunday after officers found the man, Reginald Allen, dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound inside his garage in the 700 block of McBride Avenue, said Master Sgt. Brad Clossen of the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department. Clossen said Allen was in his 40s.

The incident began about 1:20 p.m. Sunday when a man was found shot to death in a yard in the 400 block of McBride Avenue. That man's name has not been released. Allen and the victim had worked together, but Clossen said the motive for the killing is unclear.

After the shooting, the suspect took off on a Bobcat, a piece of construction equipment, and headed down McBride Avenue toward Interstate 255. Dispatchers warned that the gunman was seen carrying what looked like an AK-47.

A Dupo police officer was the first officer to arrive.

The Bobcat was left under the highway, and the Dupo officer got out of his patrol car to confront the gunman, police said. That's when the gunman shot the officer in the shoulder and neck, Clossen said.

The officer was rushed to a hospital, where he underwent surgery, Clossen said. The last update he heard was that the officer's condition was serious, Clossen said Monday.

After shooting the officer, the gunman jumped into the officer's patrol car and drove away  with the officer's rifle still inside. The gunman drove the patrol car a short distance and parked it in his driveway next to his garage in the 700 block of McBride, Clossen said.

That is where police focused on a standoff for the next several hours. They entered the garage about 10 p.m. and found the suspect dead, Clossen said.

The residential neighborhood on McBride is northeast of Highway 3 and Interstate 255. It is about seven miles from St. Louis. More than a dozen law enforcement and EMS agencies were at the scene.

Residents waited in their cars, and at a nearby gas station, for word of when they could return to their homes. Clossen said residents were allowed to return to their homes by midnight.
ST. LOUIS  Hi-Tech Charities started out small more than 20 years ago by trying to help at-risk youths in Hamilton Heights, one of the roughest neighborhoods in north city. Based out of a church, they offered counseling and leadership training.

The nonprofit is still in the area. Now, it has its own headquarters at 5920 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, with locations in New York and rural Missouri. Hi-Tech Charities says it has also begun operations in West Africa, to help children, youths and women from extremely low-income families and communities.

We go where the need is enormous, Francis Onukwue, president and founder of Hi-Tech Charities, said during a Feb. 9 grand opening to celebrate another expansion of services including a mobile health clinic. That is what our mission is.

Hi-Tech Charities had net assets of $2.5 million in 2019, according to the most recent public records available online. Over the years, its budget fluctuated a lot depending on government contracts.

One of its latest grants has raised hard questions from neighbors, at least one elected official and Fred Lewis, who says hes the chairman of the Hi-Tech Charities board of directors.

He spends a lot of money and does absolutely nothing for our neighborhood, Lewis told the Post-Dispatch about Onukwue.

In 2021, Hi-Tech Charities was the recipient of one of the largest grants of its kind in Missouri, when it was awarded $4 million from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA, a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. SAMHSA has been investing heavily to integrate mental health and addiction treatment to help stem the death toll from the opioid epidemic and address disparities.

Hi-Tech Charities headquarters is located in one of the ground zeroes of the epidemic. It also has a facility in Irondale, Missouri, a town of about 400 people, 55 miles south of St. Louis, in Washington County. According to the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic expansion grant from SAMHSA, Hi-Tech Charities was part of an effort to expand existing services to military veterans, minorities, LGBTQ youths, the homeless and those suffering from serious mental illness.

Among the measurable objectives mentioned in the two-year grant that just ended Feb. 14, Hi-Tech Charities was to serve a minimum of 600 unduplicated clients, including engaging at least 150 of them in medication-assisted treatment for drug addiction.

In interviews last week, Onukwue described the $4 million grant as a one-time-deal kind of thing meant to build capacity. Asked if they met the measurable objectives, he referred specific performance questions to another leader of the organization, Chidimma Nwankwere, who was offended by the inquiry.

I dont need to give you that, she said.

She said it was too soon to officially say how many people were served because the grant just ended. Nor would she comment about progress reports during the two-year grant period.

Onukwue said they are trying to serve a difficult population.

You put your best foot forward and do what you can, Onukwue said. We are serving the homeless.

Steven Mitchell, 41, who lives in a nearby tent and doesnt remember the last day he didnt struggle with opioid dependence, said Hi-Tech Charities turned him out in 2022. He said he returned earlier this month to get paid to collect signatures at the grand opening event.

I live right here. I dont see a lot of traffic, said Mitchell, doing odd jobs last week at the nearby Wellston Loop Community Development Corporation, which received a $60,000 grant from the government in late 2021 to help fight the opioid epidemic.

Who is it that they help? I am not seeing a lot of help. I am not hearing people saying they got any help up there.

Kim Jayne, who helps run Wellston Loop, which offers free meals, clothing and Narcan, while trying to get people into housing and drug treatment, shook her head when asked about Hi-Tech Charities.

All I know is they got a ton of money, and I have never met anybody who got any help from them other than to use their phone and get a ride, Jayne said. Ive walked people up there to try to find something for them. I couldnt find them to do anything. Its a shame to waste money when people are dropping dead and overdosing on some s--t weve never seen before.

Candance Irving, 34, seven months pregnant, had similar criticism.

They let me use the bathroom, and thats it, she said.

Told some of the concerns, SAMHSA wouldnt comment about Hi-Techs performance.

Not on board

In the event someone overcome by drug addiction, or one of their friends or family wanted to find the nearest help, SAMHSA has a treatment finder available online.

Despite the $4 million SAMHSA grant, Hi-Tech Charities doesnt come up in the finder. Not at 5920 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in St. Louis, nor at 104 South Hickory Street in Irondale.

On its own website, Hi-Tech Charities says in large letters that it offers world class addiction help and home care! The phone number in the top left corner of the main page has an extra numeral. The book an appointment icon in the top right corner doesnt work. Office addresses arent easily found and oversight has changed.

Dr. Cheryl Ray is listed on the website as chairman of the board. Contacted by email, she said shes no longer serving on the board. She didnt respond to a follow-up request to discuss her experience with the organization.

Onukwue said that the website is old and that a new one will be up soon. Asked who currently sits on the board of directors, he hesitated to answer.

Its a little complicated, he said, adding that COVID-19 was a big obstacle. The problem we have right now, we are looking for capable board members.

A survey of 15 years of Hi-Tech Charities public tax filings rarely included any board members.

Onukwue provided the names of two board members, Geraldine Malone and Stella Erondu. In a telephone interview, Erondu said she was a retired co-founder of a charter school in north St. Louis. She said shes been on the Hi-Tech board about a year or two, but hadnt attended meetings in recent months because shed been on vacation in Dubai and Africa.

Asked about Hi-Techs efforts to provide medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction  naltrexone, buprenorphine, methadone  she said she hadnt followed that closely.

I do not know the everyday details of how that works, she said. I am more interested in the counseling, behavioral health things for children and their families.

She said Lewis had served on the board.

Onukwue said Lewis was elected as interim chairman and served on the board, but hadnt filled out all the background paperwork. Yet Onukwue confirmed Lewis was the only board member present at a recent meeting.

If anything, hes creating problems for us, Onukwue said. Fred Lewis doesnt know anything about how organizations function.

Lewis sold the headquarters building on MLK to Hi-Tech Charities in 2004. Onukwue said it largely accounts for the $2.5 million in net assets reported in public tax filings. Though the city appraises the building at $89,900, he said much more has been spent getting it in shape and demolishing nearby vacant structures.

In telephone interviews, Lewis, who lives in the Hamilton Heights area, blasted Hi-Tech Charities for lack of transparency.

What he is doing to that neighborhood is dreadful, he said of Onukwue. Hes configured that building three or four times with new material.  Hes never gave me financial reports. Hes never gotten approval to do anything.

Grand opening

In a tour of the two-story headquarters building at the Feb. 9 grand opening event that marked an expansion of services, Onukwue said Hi-Tech has 17 employees, including two nurse practitioners and seven therapists. He said they work with about 500 children a year, mainly at Normandy and Hazelwood school districts, while running the behavioral health center on MLK.

We intend to increase the number of people we serve, he said. At capacity, we will be serving 3,000 people a year. It could be more.

The main floor was set up as an outpatient clinic. It looked shiny, new and unused. Asked about their medication-assisted treatment program, he didnt offer specifics.

Anything we dont have in house, we coordinate it with our partners, he said.

The basement was dark, in the middle of a construction project. If they could get funding, Onukwue said, he hoped to have shelter beds down there, maybe a computer lab. The top floor was also unfinished. Onukwue said he hoped to turn that floor into classrooms for an entrepreneurship school that also teaches youth employment skills.

He paused by the window, looking out on the hardscrabble neighborhood where drugs, prostitution and decay are rampant.

You see here. All of the area is run down, he said. We are hanging in here. As you can see, the need is enormous. We have to do something different to see how we can revive our community.

Going rural

Hi-Tech Charities first expressed public interest in expanding to tiny Irondale, in rural Washington County, in September 2021, according to a review of the minutes at City Hall. The next month, they bought an old home at 104 South Hickory Street and tried to turn it into a health clinic.

A Feb. 8, 2022, occupancy inspection failed for several issues, the inspector wrote in large letters in the report. Major repairs were needed to address: damaged boards, peeling paint, loose wires, no smoke detectors and other items. The inspector also wrote that a professional electrician and structural engineer were needed.

Mandy Barton, city clerk, said Hi-Tech Charities operated without an occupancy permit. Onukwue said it was his understanding that they didnt need one because the land was supposed to be rezoned commercial.

Regardless, Barton said, the Feb. 8, 2022, failed inspection report came to her attention in recent months after a Hi-Tech Charities assistant called City Hall, concerned that her desk was going to fall through the floor. The assistant and a nurse practitioner who formerly worked at the location didnt respond to requests for comment.

We had to lay them off to complete the work, Onukwue said of the building, adding: One of the plumbers cut off one of the supports of the building.

The work hasnt been completed. Last week, the building was vacant, with delinquent property taxes owed and a blown out window on the second floor.

Some, like Teresa Edmond, 38, werent surprised. She said she went to the Hi-Tech Charities facility in Irondale one day last year to ask for an antibiotic prescription to treat a tooth infection.

They didnt even look at my mouth, she said.

Edmond said she twice drove several miles away to a pharmacy, but the prescription was never filled. Ultimately, she went to an emergency room for treatment.

Victoria Wells, 33, was sad to see the clinic close, even if it seemed like a work in progress. She said Hi-Tech Charities offered drug treatment and other services in a remote area that needs it. She said she went there a few times for doctor visits. She said her son was set up to do telehealth.

I had a good experience. My aunt did, too, she said. We were upset when they closed the doors to it.

But Frederick Williams, an alderman who keeps tabs on the Hi-Tech Charities property, was skeptical.

Look at this, he said, stepping over broken glass on the front walkway. This place is a mess. Its been a mess. Theyve been doing a little work here, a little work there, to make it look like something is being done. Theyve been here a little over a year doing this.

The sight of it all made him mad.

They think they can run things through us just because we are a tiny ol town, he said.

Hi-Tech Charities still sees potential. In an email to Irondale leaders earlier this month, Onukwue said they are working on completing the facility soon. He said Hi-Tech Charities will be in touch about a grand opening event scheduled for March 16.

Thank you all for the good work you do, building and supporting the City of Irondale and its wonderful, God-loving citizens, Onukwue wrote.

An online advertisement has also surfaced, seeking up to $100,000 in investor capital for the redevelopment of the Hi-Tech Charities Irondale branch.

But after a visit to the location on Wednesday with a structural engineer, Onukwue told the Post-Dispatch that it would probably take $400,000. He said the existing building was unsalvageable. Maybe a prefabricated building could be purchased and theyd park the new mobile clinic at the property.

Full steam ahead on the March 16 grand opening ceremony.

We want to get the word out there, he said. We are not going to abandon you.
The Jackson County Republican Party on Monday ruled a motion to censure Missouri state Rep. Chris Sander out of order.

However, the party is forming a committee to consider potentially censuring the Lone Jack Republican lawmaker in the future, Sander told The Star Monday evening.

I think Im doing the right thing, Sander said. If the party is lagging behind me, I need to be patient. But I have no patience, so I will continue trying to move forward.

The county GOP party was considering censuring Sander, an openly gay Republican state lawmaker, for filing a proposed constitutional amendment that would redefine marriage in the Missouri Constitution from being between a man and a woman to two individuals.

The Star was removed from a live stream of the meeting before it began.

Jackson County GOP Chair Mark Anthony Jones, who also serves as the spokesperson for the party, said in a text to The Star that censuring members was not within the committees purview.

This resolution was dead on arrival, the text said.

Jones, who was first elected party chair in 2014, touts himself as the first openly gay elected Republican county committee chairman in the country, according to his Linkedin profile.

The party considered Sanders censure at a meeting at Tiff N Jays in Lees Summit. The resolution, filed by party committee member Dave Thomas from Grandview, also states that any member of the party could be censured for trying to define marriage as anything other than between a man or a woman.

Marriage is valid as defined only between one man and one woman according to nature and natures God, and this truth is held by us to be self-evident and unalienable, Thomas resolution said in part.

Missouri voters passed a constitutional amendment that barred same-sex marriage in 2004. That amendment was nullified in 2015 when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned statewide bans on same-sex marriage nationwide.

Sanders proposed constitutional amendment would bring Missouri in line with the federal Respect for Marriage Act signed by President Joe Biden late last year which enshrined same-sex and interracial marriage into federal law.

_____

The earlier story, posted at 1:21 p.m. Monday.

JEFFERSON CITY  The Jackson County Republican Party on Monday will vote on a resolution to censure an openly gay Republican state lawmaker for filing a proposed constitutional amendment that would redefine marriage in the Missouri Constitution from being between one man and one woman to two individuals.

The partys censure vote, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday at Tiff N Jays in Lees Summit, targets state Rep. Chris Sander, a Lone Jack Republican. The resolution also states that any member of the party could be censured for trying to define marriage as anything other than between a man or a woman.

Marriage is valid as defined only between one man and one woman according to nature and natures God, and this truth is held by us to be self-evident and unalienable, the partys resolution says in part.

Missouri voters passed a constitutional amendment that barred same-sex marriage in 2004. That amendment was nullified in 2015 when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned statewide bans on same-sex marriage nationwide.

While the county party has no authority to remove Sander from office, the resolution would send a request to House Speaker Dean Plocher, a St. Louis Republican, for an official condemnation or further punishments. Plocher told The Star Monday that he would wait to see what the committee forwards to his office.

Well have to work together as a caucus to reach some sort of conclusion if any action should be warranted, Plocher said.

The resolution was filed by party committee member Dave Thomas from Grandview, according to a copy of the resolution obtained by The Star. Jackson County GOP Chair Mark Anthony Jones, who serves as the spokesperson for the party, did not return a call for comment Monday.

Jones, who was first elected party chair in 2014, touts himself as the first openly gay elected Republican county committee chairman in the country, according to his Linkedin profile.

Sander and LGBTQ advocates have decried the committees censure resolution as homophobic and hateful. Sander told The Star on Monday he has no plans to withdraw his legislation.

I dont believe people should have to leave Missouri in order to be married, he said. The debate needs to be had. If there are people that are hateful towards LGBT people, I think they need to be on record as being hateful. So Im okay with them using me as an example of their hate.

Sanders constitutional amendment would have to be approved by a majority of Missouri voters, in addition to the General Assembly. It was in response to the Respect for Marriage Act signed by President Joe Biden late last year which enshrined same-sex and interracial marriage into federal law.

The federal law received support from members of both parties, including then-Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Missouri).

While federal law enshrines same-sex marriage, the Missouri Constitution still defines marriage as between a man and a woman under the amendment approved by voters in 2004.

It is ridiculous that after all the progress weve made for marriage equality on a federal level, local municipal organizations not only feel empowered to discriminate against LGBTQ+ Missourians but to also uphold that hate by means of religious beliefs, said Katy Erker-Lynch, executive director of PROMO Missouri, an LGBTQ advocacy group.

We are appalled that Rep. Sanders own party, in his own county district, is wrongfully targeting him for simply trying to uphold federal law and enshrine those protections to love and marry who you love within our states constitution. It is a clear sign that openly gay Republican legislators and LGBTQ+ members of the Republican party are not celebrated in their unions or free to love who they love in Jackson County.
Belarusian anti-government activists said on Sunday they had blown up a sophisticated Russian military surveillance aircraft in a drone attack at an airfield near the Belarusian capital Minsk, a claim that neither Russia nor Belarus confirmed.

The plane  a Beriev A-50 aircraft  has the NATO reporting name of Mainstay and is an airborne early warning aircraft with command and control capabilities and the ability to track up to 60 targets at a time.

Belarus, a staunch Russian ally, has allowed Moscow to use its territory to launch attacks on Ukraine, though so far holding off from getting directly involved in the war.

They were drones (that carried out the attack). The participants of the operation are Belarusians, Aliaksandr Azarov, leader of Belarusian anti-government organization BYPOL, was quoted as saying on the organizations Telegram messaging app and on the Poland-based Belsat news channel.

Azarov did not provide immediate evidence to back his assertion.

BYPOL, which includes former law enforcement officers who support opposition politicians, has been branded a terrorist organization by Minsk. Belsat is a Polish broadcaster focused on Belarusian news that Minsk has also branded extremist.

The Kremlin declined to comment on Azarovs claim, saying that the alleged incident had occurred on the territory of Belarus which it said had denied it. There was no immediate response to comment requests from the Belarusian or Russian defense ministries.

Franak Viacorka, an adviser to Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, said in a post on Twitter that two Belarusian partisans had been involved in the attack on the Machulishchy air base outside Minsk.

He said the drones had damaged the front and central parts of the A-50 plane, including the aircrafts radar antenna and avionics. The two people who had carried out the attack were now safely outside Belarus, he said.

I am proud of all Belarusians who continue to resist the Russian hybrid occupation of Belarus & fight for the freedom of Ukraine, Tsikhanouskaya, the opposition leader, wrote on Twitter, with a link to her adviser Viacorkas report.

There have been several acts of sabotage in Belarus and in Russian regions bordering Ukraine, especially on the railway system, since the start of Russias invasion of Ukraine.

The Belarusian human rights group Vyasna said on Monday that a woman was detained in Machulishchy, where the air base is located. It said it was unaware of the reason for the detention.

Detentions in Belarus are common, especially after President Alexander Lukashenko crushed mass protests against him in 2020 and jailed all leading opposition figures or forced them to flee abroad.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker aptly condemned Republican attacks recently on schools, libraries and learning itself as an attack on American values. Its an ideological battle by the right wing, hiding behind a claim that they would protect our children, the Democratic governor said during his annual State of the State address this month, but whose real intention is to marginalize people and ideas they dont like.

Its a message more Democrats should be bluntly conveying  and one that should elevate Pritzker as a national figure.

In that sense, the speech was reminiscent of Pritzkers election-night victory speech last November in which  after winning election to a second term by more than 10 points over a radical-right Republican backed by former President Donald Trump  he excoriated the GOP for being too cowardly, too simpering to support the best interests of the nation because theyre afraid of being called insulting nicknames by a whiny bully.

While that speech was aimed largely at the unfit former president and the fact that most of the GOP continues to support him, the State of the State address contained pointed (if unnamed) jabs at another likely Republican presidential contender, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Pritzker warned of a virulent strain of nationalism plaguing our nation, one that seeks to make America a country that bans books from school libraries about racism  and tells kids they cant talk about being gay and signals to Black and brown people and Asian Americans and Jews and Muslims that our authentic stories cant be told. He called for learning that teaches kids our true history, warts and all. This is 180 degrees from DeSantis ideological agenda in Florida  an agenda supported nationally by too many in his party.

After inheriting an Illinois government reeling from decades of financial mismanagement by both parties, Pritzker has reined in the states once-careening public pension debt, earning the state its first credit upgrades in two decades. Illinois pandemic-related health care system performance  defined by such factors as vaccination and hospitalization rates  was ranked 12th in the nation last year by The Commonwealth Fund. (Florida was ranked 25th; Republican-controlled Missouri was 40th.) Pritzkers strong advocacy of reasonable firearms restrictions has helped keep Illinois in the bottom half of states in terms of firearms death rates, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Missouri is fourth from the top.

No wonder The Washington Post and other national analysts consistently include Pritzker on the short list of Democrats who might realistically run for president next year if Joe Biden doesnt seek reelection. Regardless of whether that comes to pass, Pritzker is providing a strong case  in both rhetoric and deed  for why returning the White House to Trump or a similarly radical Republican would be a colossal mistake for America.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Klondike Gold Corp. (TSX.V:KG)(FRA:LBDP)(OTCQB: KDKGF) ("Klondike Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to report gold assay results from eleven diamond drill holes at the Gay Gulch Showing on the Klondike District Property (the "Property") located in the Dawson mining district, Yukon, Canada.

Highlights from Gay Gulch Showing drilling include:

Gold mineralization has been intersected by drilling over a 300-meter lateral distance. The mineralized zone is interpreted to begin at surface with a shallow southeast-directed plunge and remains open.

0.43 g/t Au over 32.7 meters in EC22-467 from 65.1 meters to 97.8 meters at 210 o azimuth.

azimuth. 0.42 g/t Au over 34.5 meters in EC22-468 from 38.0 meters to 72.5 meters at 290 o azimuth.

azimuth. 0.60 g/t Au over 27.85 meters in EC22-477 from 23.0 meters to 50.85 meters at 290 o azimuth.

azimuth. Drilling intersected extensive silicification in graphite schist adjacent the schist-graphite fault associated with a modelled anticlinal fold hinge.

The recently reported high grade quartz vein sampled in outcrop came from the schist-graphite fault contact exposed at surface which assayed 4,064 g/t Au with 1,149 g/t Ag (refer to news release of February 21, 2023).

Peter Tallman, Klondike Gold's President & CEO, states "Congratulations to the Company's geology team jointly with Kluane Drilling personnel who outlined what has become a significant drill discovery at the Gay Gulch Showing. This quick' drill program, completed during a short break from nearby Stander Zone drilling, succeeded in tracing the geometry of a gold mineralized fault and determined a plunge axis "on the fly" for 300 meters length which outlines the geometry of the Gay Gulch Showing for the first time. The Company can proceed in 2023 to drill test towards establishing a third mineral resource area on the Property."

Assay results for eleven (11) drill holes, EC22-467 to EC22-477, have been received which tested the Gay Gulch Showing over a 300 meter length. Significant intersections from these holes are shown in Table 1.

Table1: 2022 Exploration Program - Gay Gulch Showing - Significant Results

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Grade (g/t Au) Length (m) EC22-467 65.10 97.80 0.43 32.70 Including 68.80 69.80 0.69 9.60 Including 69.30 69.80 7.40 0.50 EC22-468 38.00 72.50 0.42 34.50 Including 41.00 42.00 4.49 1.00 EC22-469 NSV EC22-470 NSV EC22-471 NSV EC22-472 123.20 127.30 0.47 4.10 EC22-473 NSV EC22-474 112.54 114.28 0.83 1.74 EC22-475 100.30 100.80 0.93 0.50 And 109.90 110.40 1.33 0.50 EC22-476 33.50 64.40 0.23 30.90 Including 41.00 50.80 0.54 9.80 Including 41.00 45.00 0.83 4.00 EC22-477 23.00 50.85 0.60 27.85 Including 23.00 23.80 0.80 7.92

[NSV: no significant values]

Figure 1: Gay Gulch Showing 2022 Drill Hole Location Plan Map

Figure 2: Gay Gulch Showing location relative to the Mineral Resource areas at the Lone Star Zone and the Stander Zone

Eleven holes targeted Gay Gulch Showing mineralization in 2022. Six holes were drilled at 210 azimuth to test for gold mineralized sheeted veins comprising typical mineralization at the Gay Gulch Showing. Mineralized intersections in 210-directed holes are approximately true thickness determined from quartz vein measurements from sheeted veins. Five holes were drilled at 290 azimuth mineralization to test for the graphitic fault structure and associated mineralization. Mineralized intersections of 290-directed holes intersecting silicification and quartz veining along the graphitic fault are estimated 70% of true thickness based on indication of shallow plunge to southeast supported by 3D modeling of mineralized extents. Mineralized intervals in holes EC22-472, EC22-474, and EC22-475 are interpreted to have intersected the top of the gold mineralized envelope consistent with a southeast plunge. Mineralization remains open and untested to the southeast.

Drill hole details including coordinates, orientation, dip, and length of hole are provided in Table 2 below.

Table 2: Drill Collar Summary for 2022 exploration program at Gay Gulch Showing

Hole ID UTM East UTM North Azimuth Dip Length (m) EC22-467 585348 7084185 210 55 117.4 EC22-468 585315 7084126 290 55 89.9 EC22-469 585481 7084121 210 55 120.4 EC22-470 585568 7084070 210 55 173.1 EC22-471 585390 7084274 210 55 214.9 EC22-472 585460 7084075 290 55 135.0 EC22-473 585460 7084075 210 55 158.5 EC22-474 585415 7084095 290 55 115.5 EC22-475 585415 7084095 210 85 118.9 EC22-476 585272 7084154 290 55 129.5 EC22-477 585226 7084176 290 55 82.3

Six holes tested the Gay Gulch Showing for the first time in 2015 which led to discovery hole EC15-10 intersecting 75.6 g/t Au over 2.8m including 420 g/t Au over 0.4m. Results from 2015 holes EC15-08 to EC15-13 reported in the October 26, 2015 news release, a copy of which can be referenced at https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/klondike-gold-reports-remaining-2015-drill-results-intersects-75-6-gt-au-over-2-8m-at-gay-gulch/.

Seven drill holes tested the Gay Gulch Showing in 2019 following up the 2015 gold discovery included EC19-244 intersecting 0.4 g/t Au over 29.8m from 5.7 meters which located the gold mineralization at surface. Results from 2019 holes EC19-242 to EC19-248 reported in the September 29, 2019 news release, a copy of which can be referenced at https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/klondike-gold-reports-gay-gulch-drill-results-and-exploration-update/

The recent results from discovery of Gay Gulch high-grade gold mineralization in quartz veining in surface outcrop assaying 4,064 g/t Au with 1,149 g/t Ag with telluride and silver sulfosalt were reported in the February 21, 2023 news release, a copy of which can be referenced at https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/klondike-gold-discovers-high-grade-quartz-vein-outcrop-at-gay-gulch-assaying-4064-g-t-au-with-1149-g-t-ag/.

The Company is currently compiling exploration information in the Gay Gulch area as a priority. Several linear Au-Ag-Te soil anomalies potentially resulting from in-situ high gold-silver mineralization coincident with LiDAR lineaments interpreted as potential late faults occur near the Gay Gulch Showing and will be high priority targets for 2023 exploration.

2022 QUALITY ASSURANCE / QUALITY CONTROL PROTOCOLS

All 2022 drill holes referenced in this release produced NTW (5.71 cm dia.) drill core. Assay samples from drill core are cut using a diamond saw. Half the core sample interval is bagged, tagged, and sealed; the other half is returned to the core box with a corresponding tag retained for reference. Two gold reference standards, two blank samples (a coarse and a fine), and a coarse sample duplicate per 100 samples, are routinely inserted as part of Klondike Gold's quality assurance / quality control ("QA/QC") program, independent of and additional to the laboratory QA/QC program.

Sample bags are aggregated into rice bags, sealed, and submitted by Klondike Gold personnel to Bureau Veritas Mineral Laboratories ("BV Labs") preparation facility in Whitehorse, Yukon, with chemical analysis of sample pulps completed in Vancouver, British Columbia. BV Labs is an accredited ISO 9001:2008 full-service commercial laboratory.

At BV Labs each drill core sample is crushed to 80% passing 2 mm size. A 500 g subsample is pulverized to >85% passing -75 microns size (200 mesh; code PRP70-500). All samples of 500 g are sieved to 106 microns (140 mesh) for "metallic screen" assaying. The +140 mesh fraction is weighed and assayed for gold by fire assay ("FA") fusion with a gravimetric finish (code FS631). A 30 g subsample of the -140 mesh fraction is assayed for gold by fire assay ("FA") fusion with an atomic absorption ("AA") finish (code FA430). All over-limit results in excess of 10 ppm (10 g/t) for both silver and gold are re-assayed using a 30 g subsample and assayed by FA with a gravimetric finish (code FA530-Au/Ag). Total gold grade is then calculated using a weighted average of the plus and minus fraction assay results. BV Labs independently inserts QA/QC standards, blanks, and sample duplicates through each analytical process.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Klondike Gold will be participating in the following recent or upcoming events:

PDAC (Toronto, ON) - March 5 to March 8, 2023

PDAC (Toronto, ON) - PDAC-SEG Student Minerals Colloquium: 3 Research Poster Displays

All events are subject to change.

QUALIFIED PERSON

The technical and scientific information contained within this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Tallman, P.Geo., President and CEO of Klondike Gold and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 policy. Detailed technical information, specifications, analytical information and procedures can be found on the Company's website.

ABOUT KLONDIKE GOLD CORP.

Klondike Gold is a Vancouver based gold exploration company advancing its 100%-owned Klondike District Gold Project located at Dawson City, Yukon, one of the top mining jurisdictions in the world. The Klondike District Gold Project targets gold associated with district scale orogenic faults along the 55-kilometer length of the famous Klondike Goldfields placer district. Multi-kilometer gold mineralization has been identified at both the Lone Star Zone and Stander Zone, among other targets. The Company has identified an Initial Mineral Resource of 469,000 Indicated and 112,000 Inferred gold ounces1, a milestone first for the Klondike District. The Company is focused on exploration and development of its 727 square kilometer property accessible by scheduled airline and government-maintained roads located on the outskirts of Dawson City, Yukon, within the Tr'ondk Hwech'in First Nation traditional territory.

1The Initial Mineral Resource Estimate for the Klondike District Property was prepared by Marc Jutras, P.Eng., M.A.Sc., Principal, Ginto Consulting Inc., an independent Qualified Person in accordance with the requirements of NI 43-101. The technical report supporting the Mineral Resource Estimate entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Klondike District Gold Project, Yukon Territory, Canada" has been filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com effective November 10, 2022. Refer to news release of December 16, 2022.

ON BEHALF OF KLONDIKE GOLD CORP.

"Peter Tallman"

Peter Tallman,

President and CEO

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Telephone: (604) 609-6138

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.klondikegoldcorp.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements". When used in this document, the words "anticipated", "expect", "estimated", "forecast", "planned", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements or information. These statements are based on current expectations of management, however, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this news release. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements. Klondike Gold does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date hereof, except as required by securities laws.

SOURCE: Klondike Gold Corp.

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TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Achievers, an industry-leading employee experience platform, has launched a give-back initiative in recognition of its annual Employee Appreciation Week (February 27  March 3) celebration. The companys show of appreciation to its workforce helps to support the causes closest to employees hearts through charitable donations made using the Achievers Employee Experience Platform.

Through the Achievers Rewards Marketplace, employees have the ability to make charitable donations to over a million registered charities globally. All employees are invited to participate in the campaign by donating points earned through the Platform to a charity of their choice. During Employee Appreciation Week, for every $10 in points donated, employees will be entered into a daily draw for prizes.

We understand that appreciation takes many forms, and one way to show our employees that we care is to support the issues they care about, says Hannah Yardley, chief people and culture officer, Achievers. In todays world of flexible work, social issues are not limited to outside of work hours and companies can no longer overlook the importance of supporting their workforces in making contributions to social change. Through this initiative, we also hope to nurture a sense of belonging by better understanding the passions and causes most important to our employees.

Employee Appreciation Week at Achievers is designed to celebrate employees. Achievers will be hosting a variety of activities over the week including in-office and virtual yoga classes, a smoothies and ice cream event, paint night, games and live music. In addition to showing appreciation through giving back, Achievers is also announcing opportunities for employee development by launching a diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) educational series.

To cap off the week, Achievers is hosting its employee recognition ceremony, an employee-nominated process that allows peers to identify the employees that have had the most impact.

Research from the Achievers Workforce Institute has found that recognition is not only the most effective way to make employees feel valued on the job but it is also a key driver in critical areas such as inclusion and the experience of belonging. Those recognized weekly are 45% more likely to say they also feel known as an individual at their organization. Frequent recognition paired with efforts to understand employees personal values have many benefits, including higher levels of employee engagement and retention.

To learn more about the importance of employee appreciation, visit: www.achievers.com

To recognize employees this Employee Appreciation Week, send a free appreciation card: www.achievers.com/appreciate

About Achievers

Achievers employee voice and recognition solutions bring your organizations values and strategy to life by activating employee participation and accelerating a culture of performance. Achievers leverages the science behind behavior change, so your people and your organization can experience sustainable, data-driven business results. Visit us at www.achievers.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005722/en/

Media:

Maranda Wilson

[email protected]

Audrey Surette

[email protected]

Source: Achievers
Company also announces it has exceeded its 50 by 50 goal to help 50 million people by its 50th birthday

MEMPHIS, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) today kicked off a 50-day countdown to April 17, 2023, the day FedEx celebrates 50 years of operations, with its 50 Days of Caring initiative. During this time, FedEx team members will be giving back to their communities through service projects around the world. In addition, the company will hold events and share stories that celebrate its team members, shine a spotlight on its customers, and give the world a glimpse into whats next.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005599/en/

(Photo: Business Wire)

To further celebrate this milestone, FedEx is proud to announce it exceeded its FedEx Cares 50 by 50 goal to help 50 million people by the companys 50th birthday. In recognition of these events, the company plans to start the celebrations with a $50,000 gift to World Central Kitchen (WCK).

For the last 50 years, FedEx has transformed the world by connecting people and possibilities, and we want to celebrate this milestone anniversary by giving back, said FedEx President and Chief Executive Officer Raj Subramaniam. Exceeding our 50 by 50 goal of supporting 50 million people globally demonstrates the incredible dedication of FedEx team members and our steadfast commitment to deliver more than packages, but also hope, opportunity, and good in the world.

Launched in 2019, FedEx Cares worked around the world with more than 900 nonprofits to have a direct and positive impact on more than 50 million people. Team members engaged in community service, invested in philanthropic endeavors, and provided in-kind shipping to many organizations. Some highlights include:

Delivering hope and healing by leveraging the companys global network to deliver basic necessities and medicine to people when natural disasters and crisis strike.

Making dreams come true by investing in inclusion and the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Prioritizing the planet by investing in solutions and innovations to create more sustainable cities and empower team members to restore and protect the environment through community service.

Volunteering time in the community to help keep kids warm and feed the hungry.

Though FedEx met the 50 by 50 goal, the job is never done. Team members around the globe are encouraged to show support to the communities they serve every day and engage in 50 Days of Caring by volunteering for a nonprofit or donating items to an agency in need.

The success of our first 50 years and the impact of our charitable and volunteer efforts inspires us to create a future as transformative as our first five decades," said Subramaniam. "For all that we have achieved, doing our part to build a better, brighter world will be our most important delivery yet."

To learn more about the FedEx 50th birthday celebration, click here.

About FedEx Corp.

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce and business services. With annual revenue of $94 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions through operating companies competing collectively, operating collaboratively and innovating digitally under the respected FedEx brand. Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 550,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040. To learn more, please visit fedex.com/about.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005599/en/

Jenny Robertson

901-434-8100

Source: FedEx Corp.
LoopMe Achieves 27% Growth YoY in APAC, Surpassing $150 Million in Global Revenue in the last 12 months, Hires Alberico De Nardis as Head of South East Asia from TikTok

SINGAPORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- LoopMe, a leading technology company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to improve brand advertising performance, today announced the appointment of Alberico De Nardis as Head of South East Asia, as well as the role change of Bernard Fung to Head of North APAC. Both will be instrumental in driving continued momentum and identifying new revenue opportunities across the APAC region.

The announcement comes on the heels of significant revenue growth for LoopMe, with the company closing out 2022 with 27% growth year-on-year in the APAC region, and 55% global growth year-on-year  surpassing $150Million in revenue in the last 12 months. This demonstrates continuing demand for LoopMes suite of outcomes-based technology products, which do not rely on personal identifying data and are available across mobile, CTV, digital audio, digital out-of-home and other emerging digital advertising channels.

De Nardis has proven experience in industry-leading agencies and technology companies across APAC and EMEA, most recently holding the role of Global Agency Development Lead, APAC for TikTok. He has also held positions at IAB, Omnicom Media Group Asia Pacific, and Handprint. At LoopMe, De Nardis will spearhead the companys expansion in South East Asia across Singapore, Australia, and India.

Fung, who has been with LoopMe for over three years, initially joined as Sales Director, and has also served as Interim General Manager for APAC. In his new role as Head of North APAC, Fung will drive LoopMes expansion in the Greater China Region, Japan, and Korea.

The APAC market is becoming increasingly important to our business, and these two new appointments will strengthen our senior team and drive growth in the region, said Stephen Upstone, CEO and Founder at LoopMe. Bernard has already shown how vital his passion and expertise is in meeting these goals, and we are pleased to have him leading our efforts in the Chinese and Japanese markets. Similarly, bringing someone with as much experience as Alberico on board was a no-brainer, and we are delighted to have him as part of the team for South East Asia.

Speaking on his appointment, Alberico De Nardis, Head of South East Asia at LoopMe, said:

LoopMes industry-leading AI-powered solution means were ideally positioned to continue our expansion in South East Asia, and Im excited to be part of the APAC team driving this, especially at a time of rapid global growth for the company.

In addition, LoopMe has announced the role change of Simon Stone to General Manager International. He previously undertook duties as General Manager EMEA and joined LoopMe in 2018 as Commercial Director. His new role will see him responsible for all revenue across EMEA and APAC, as well as overseeing LoopMes expansion across these regions by growing its presence and teams in these key markets. Lisa Coffey also joins LoopMe as the companys global CRO from Amazon, where she most recently held the position of Head of Strategy and Business Development.

About LoopMe

LoopMe, a leading outcomes-based platform, closes the loop on digital advertising. By leveraging AI to optimise media delivery in real-time, we drive measurable uplift for business outcomes and more effective advertising across online and offline marketing goals, including brand lift, purchase intent, consideration, foot traffic and sales. LoopMe was founded in 2012 with the mission to create better consumer experiences through innovation, powered by data, in order to bring people and brands together.

The Company is headquartered in the UK, with global offices across New York, Boston, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Toronto, Singapore, Dnipro (Ukraine), Japan and Hong Kong. In January 2022, Mayfair Equity Partners, a leading tech and consumer growth investor, became LoopMes majority investor, partnering with the Companys founders, Stephen Upstone and Marco van de Bergh, its wider management team, and existing institutional investors including BGF.

The Companys clients include brands, publishers and all five major holding companies, including dentsu, Publicis, WPP, Omnicom, Pepsi, Microsoft, Sony Pictures, Hyundai/Kia and Warner Bros. Discovery.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005045/en/

[email protected]

Source: LoopMe
The family of Pennsylvania senator John Fetterman described how they fled to Canada to escape a media circus over his "severe" clinical depression.

Mr Fetterman, a Democrat who won his first term last year while still recovering from a stroke that nearly killed him, checked himself into the Walter Reed Medical Center near Washington DC earlier this month.

Now his wife Giselle Barreto Fetterman has said that media attention pushed her to take the couple's children and drive north into Canada for an impromptu holiday.

"I am not really sure how to navigate this journey but am figuring it out slowly," Ms Fetterman tweeted on Friday.

"One week ago today when the news dropped, the kids were off from school and media trucks circled our home. I did the first thing I could think of  pack them in the car and drive.

"We talked about lots of hard things, and how we will all have to face hard things. About the need to be gentle, with all and with ourselves.

"We did some scary things but we did them together. We ziplined over Niagara Falls and [our son] August got stuck. We talked about flexibility and the need to always have an open heart and an open mind.

"We also talked about how joy and fun can and must still exist, even when someone we love is in pain. And tomorrow? Who knows. Will try all over again."

We drove straight into  Canada (and lovely Buffalo NY) (Pro Tip: always have passports ready just in case you have to run away ) We talked about lots of hard things and how we will all have to face hard things. About the need to be gentle  with all and with ourselves. pic.twitter.com/0PWQXHrbqT  Gisele Barreto Fetterman (@giselefetterman) February 24, 2023

Aides have said that Mr Fetterman may remain in hospital for weeks, suggesting that his depression may have been stoked by "negative experiences" during his election campaign.

Story continues

Mr Fetterman faced numerous attacks from Republican politicians and pundits claiming that his stroke had left him without the mental fitness to fill the post, sometimes in vicious terms.

His primary care doctor said that he has no actual "cognitive deficits", but suffers from auditory processing problems that mean he often needs captions to understand other people's speech.

The controversy continued after his victory, with conservatives accusing him of deceiving voters as to the extent of his illness while disability advocates argued that he was being unfairly stigmatised for needing accommodations that are often required by law in US workplaces.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that up to 26 per cent of American adults have some kind of disability, with 11 per cent suffering serious difficulty with concentration or memory and 6 per cent having serious problems with their hearing.

Likewise, an estimated 9.5 per cent of American adults each year suffer from depression or similar conditions such as bipolar disorder. Experts say that depression is relatively common after a stroke.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The Helpline is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.
Forbes Technology Council Is an Invitation-Only Community for World-Class CIOs, CTOs, and Technology Executives

BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Serial entrepreneur Marc Bell has been accepted into Forbes Technology Council, an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs, and technology executives. Bell joins the council as a five-time unicorn founder and currently serves as the Chairman and CEO of his fifth unicorn, aerospace and defense satellite manufacturer Terran Orbital (NYSE: LLAP).

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005178/en/

Serial entrepreneur and five-time unicorn founder Marc Bell has been accepted into Forbes Technology Council (Image Credit: Terran Orbital Corporation)

Bell was vetted and selected by a review committee based on the depth and diversity of his experience. Criteria for acceptance include a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honors.

We are honored to welcome Marc Bell into the community, said Scott Gerber, founder of Forbes Councils, the collective that includes Forbes Technology Council. Our mission with Forbes Councils is to bring together proven leaders from every industry, creating a curated, social capital-driven network that helps every member grow professionally and make an even greater impact on the business world.

As an accepted member of the Council, Marc has access to a variety of exclusive opportunities designed to help him reach peak professional influence. He will connect and collaborate with other respected local leaders in a private forum. Marc will also be invited to work with a professional editorial team to share his expert insights in original business articles on Forbes.com, and to contribute to published Q&A panels alongside other experts.

Finally, Bell will benefit from exclusive access to vetted business service partners, membership-branded marketing collateral, and the high-touch support of the Forbes Councils member concierge team.

I am honored to join Forbes Technology Council, said Bell. The timing is especially appropriate given the increasing role space plays in all our lives. From government defense strategies to weather communications, Terran Orbital-developed satellites are changing the way the world works. I look forward to conferring with my fellow council members and sharing the insights I have gained throughout my 30-year career.







About Forbes Councils

Forbes Councils is a collective of invitation-only communities created in partnership with Forbes and the expert community builders who founded Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC). In Forbes Councils, exceptional business owners and leaders come together with the people and resources that can help them thrive.

For more information about Forbes Technology Council, visit forbestechcouncil.com. To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit forbescouncils.com.

About Terran Orbital

Terran Orbital is a leading manufacturer of satellite products primarily serving the aerospace and defense industries. Terran Orbital provides end-to-end satellite solutions by combining satellite design, production, launch planning, mission operations, and on-orbit support to meet the needs of the most demanding military, civil, and commercial customers. Learn more at www.terranorbital.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005178/en/

Investor Relations Contact

Jonathan Siegmann

[email protected]

949-202-8476

Media Contact

Virginia Norder

[email protected]

949-508-6404

Source: Terran Orbital
Meteorite Capital Inc. Announce Approval of Special Meeting Matters

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for release publication, distribution or dissemination directly, or indirectly, in whole or in part, in or into the United States.

MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Meteorite Capital Inc. (TSXV: MTR) (Meteorite or the Corporation) and Kobo Resources Inc. (Kobo and, together with Meteorite, the Companies) are pleased to announce that further to the news releases dated November 1, 2022, January 17, 2023 and January 25, 2023, the Companies have entered into an amalgamation agreement (the Amalgamation Agreement) pursuant to which Meteorite and Kobo have agreed, subject to certain conditions, to complete a transaction that will result in a reverse take-over of Meteorite by the shareholders of Kobo (the Qualifying Transaction) and have completed the Concurrent Financing (as defined below) on February 24, 2023, raising aggregate gross proceeds of $4,676,400.

Concurrent Financing

The Companies are pleased to announce that the Companies have completed their previously announced brokered private placement of subscription receipts of Meteorite and Kobo (the Subscription Receipts) consisting, in the case of Kobo, of 13,516,400 Kobo Subscription Receipts (as defined below) and, in the case of Meteorite, of 4,969,200 Meteorite Subscription Receipts (as defined below) at a price of $0.25 for total gross proceeds of $4,621,400 (the Brokered Financing). The Brokered Financing was led by Leede Jones Gable Inc. (the Agent) and was a critical component in completing the Qualifying Transaction. An additional 220,000 Kobo Subscription Receipts were sold on a non-brokered basis (together with the Brokered Financing, the Concurrent Financing), for total gross proceeds of $4,676,400.

For the purposes hereof, Subscription Receipts issued by Kobo shall be referred to as Kobo Subscription Receipts and Subscription Receipts issued by Meteorite shall be referred to as Meteorite Subscription Receipts.

Proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be held in escrow by TSX Trust Company (the Subscription Receipt Agent), until the closing of the Qualifying Transaction and the satisfaction of certain escrow release conditions (collectively, the Release Conditions). Each Subscription Receipt will entitle its holder, without payment of any additional consideration and without any further action on the part of the holder thereof and after the closing of the Qualifying Transaction, to receive one post-Consolidation common share of the Resulting Issuer (as defined below) and one-half of one common share purchase warrant of the Resulting Issuer, as applicable (respectively, and each on a post-Consolidation basis, a Resulting Issuer Share and a Resulting Issuer Warrant). Each Resulting Issuer Warrant shall entitle its holder thereof to purchase one Resulting Issuer Share at an exercised price of $0.40 per Resulting Issuer Share for a period of 24 months following the closing of the Qualifying Transaction.

In the context of the Brokered Financing, the Companies have granted the Agent an option to increase the size of the offering by up to 15%, exercisable in whole or in part at any time within 48 hours of the closing date of the Brokered Financing (the Agents Option).

The Companies have agreed to pay to the Agent a cash commission of $151,028.00 (the Agents Commission) equal to 6% of the gross proceeds (including the Agents Option) from the Brokered Financing, other than gross proceeds originating from Kobos president's list of subscribers (the President's List") subscriptions, on which the Agents' Commission was 2% of the gross proceeds from the Presidents List. Half of the Agents Commission was paid at closing of the Brokered Financing, and the remaining Agents Commission will be held in escrow and paid at the closing of the Qualifying Transaction. As additional compensation, the Companies agreed to issue to the Agent non-transferable compensation options (the Agents Compensation Options) equal to 6% of the number of Subscription Receipts sold pursuant to the Brokered Financing (including the Agents Option but excluding the President's List). Each Agents Compensation Option will be issued on the closing of the Qualifying Transaction and shall entitled the holder to acquire one Resulting Issuer Share and one-half of one Resulting Issuer Warrant, at an exercise price of $0.25 for 24 months after the closing of the Qualifying Transaction. Each Resulting Issuer Warrant underlying the Agents Compensation Option shall be exercisable to acquire Resulting Issuer Share at a price of $0.40 per Resulting Issuer Share for a period of 24 months following the closing of the Qualifying Transaction. The Companies have also agreed to pay a cash corporate finance fee of $92,428.00 (the Cash Corporate Finance Fee) which is equal to 2% of the gross proceeds (including the Agents Option) from the Brokered Financing, plus applicable taxes. The portion of the Cash Corporate Finance Fee attributable to the Kobo Subscription Receipts was paid at closing of the Brokered Financing, and the remaining Cash Corporate Finance Fee will be held in escrow and paid at the closing of the Qualifying Transaction. The Companies shall in addition issue warrants (the Corporate Finance Compensation Options and together with the Agents Compensation Options, the Compensation Options) equal to 2% of the number of Subscription Receipts sold pursuant to the Brokered Financing (including the Agents Option). The Corporate Finance Compensation Options have the same terms as the Agents Compensation Options. In total, 721,312 Compensation Options will be issued at the earlier of the satisfaction of the Release Conditions or March 31, 2023. Other than as set out above, neither Meteorite nor Kobo intends to pay any finders fees or commissions in connection with the Qualifying Transaction. For clarity, in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSXV), any compensation described above payable in respect of Meteorite Subscription Receipts will only be payable on the closing of the Qualifying Transaction, and shall be held in escrow with the Subscription Receipt Agent until such date.

If the Release Conditions are not met on or before March 31, 2023, then all of the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled and all proceeds will be released from escrow and returned to subscribers.

The net proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be used by the Resulting Issuer to fund (i) the exploration and other expenses relating to the Kossou Gold Project (as defined below), (ii) the expenses of the Qualifying Transaction and the Concurrent Financing, and (iii) the working capital requirements of the Resulting Issuer.

All Subscription Receipts are subject to a Canadian statutory hold period of four months plus one day from the closing date of the Concurrent Financing. However, after the Qualifying Transaction, all Resulting Issuer Shares and all Resulting Issuer Warrants underlying the Kobo Subscription Receipt will be freely tradeable. Certain related parties of Kobo are participating in the Concurrent Financing and acquired 1,492,400 Kobo Subscription Receipts for $373,100. The participation in the Concurrent Financing of such related parties will constitute a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (Regulation 61-101 respecting Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions in Quebec), which related party transaction is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements.

For more information on the Qualifying Transaction, see the press release dated January 17, 2023.

All dollar amounts set forth herein are in Canadian dollars.

Approval of Meteorite Special Meeting Matters

Meteorite is pleased to announce that all matters in connection with the Qualifying Transaction submitted to shareholders for approval as set out in detail in the Corporations management information circular dated January 17, 2023 (the Circular) were approved at the Special Meeting of Shareholders held on February 7, 2023.

Conditional upon, and effective as of, the completion of the Qualifying Transaction with Kobo, the Corporations shareholders:

fixed the number of directors to be elected at six to serve from the completion of the Qualifying Transaction until the next general meeting of shareholders or until their successors are elected or appointed; elected the following individuals to the board of directors of the Corporation: Charles Spector, Edward Gosselin, Paul Sarjeant, Frank Ricciuti, Patrick Gagnon and Jeff Hussey; approved the stock option plan of the Corporation, as more particularly described in the accompanying proxy circular; approved, by way of special resolution, an amendment to the Corporations articles of incorporation to effect a consolidation of the common shares of the Corporation on the basis 0.2 of one new post-consolidation common share of the Corporation for each existing common share; and approved, by way of special resolution, an amendment to the Corporations articles of incorporation to change the name of the Corporation from Meteorite Capital Inc. to Kobo Resources Inc. or any such other name as may be accepted by the relevant regulatory authorities and approved by the board of directors of the Corporation.

Amalgamation Agreement

Pursuant to the Amalgamation Agreement, Meteorite will acquire all of the issued and outstanding Kobo Shares in exchange for post-Consolidation common shares of Meteorite and Kobo will amalgamate with a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meteorite by way of a three-cornered amalgamation (the Amalgamation), such that Kobo will be a wholly-owned subsidiary of Meteorite as it exists (the Resulting Issuer) following the completion of the Amalgamation. Immediately prior to the Amalgamation, Meteorite shall have completed a consolidation of its issued and outstanding common shares (the Consolidation) on the basis of 0.2 post-Consolidation Meteorite common shares for every one (1) pre-Consolidation Meteorite common share held.

As a result of the Amalgamation and excluding any securities issuable in connection with the Concurrent Financing (as defined below), Meteorite will issue an aggregate of 56,809,749 Resulting Issuer Shares at a deemed price of $0.20 per share in consideration for the acquisition of all outstanding Kobo Shares. As part of the Amalgamation, all convertible securities of Kobo outstanding immediately prior to the Closing are expected to be replaced with or exchanged for equivalent convertible securities of the Corporation entitling the holders thereof to acquire Resulting Issuer Shares in lieu of Kobo Shares. The Amalgamation will result in the reverse takeover of the Corporation by the Kobo Shareholders and will constitute the Corporations Qualifying Transaction, as such term is defined in TSXV policy 2.4.

Completion of the Amalgamation is subject to a number of conditions as set forth in the Amalgamation Agreement, including obtaining all necessary board and regulatory approvals, including TSXV approval.

About Kobo

Kobo is a junior Canadian exploration and mining development company focused on acquiring, exploring and developing gold property assets located in West Africa and primarily in Cote dIvoire. Kobo, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, KOBO Ressources Cote dIvoire S.A., owns two gold research permits (being the Kossou Permit and the Kotobi Permit) covering 449 km2 and has three pending applications covering 1,068 km2. As at the date hereof, Kobos sole material asset is the Kossou Permit, which forms the basis of its Kossou Gold Project (the Kossou Gold Project). The Kossou Gold Project is located contiguous to the eastern boundary of the Yaoure Mine operated by Perseus Mining, with key drill targets within 10 km of the Yaoure process facility. With the proceeds of the Concurrent Financing, Kobo intends to commence an 8,500 m RC drill program at the Kossou Gold Project. Drill holes will focus on key targets (RCZ, Jagger and the Contact Zone) along over 9 km of strong gold geochem anomalies previously identified and supported by surface rock sampling and trenching results.

Kobo was incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Quebec) on December 14, 2015 under the name 9333-9141 Quebec Inc. On March 4, 2016, Kobo changed its name to Kobo Resources Inc.. Kobos head office and registered office are located at 388 Grande-Allee East, Suite 101, Quebec, Quebec, G1R 2J4.

About Meteorite

Meteorite exists under the provisions of the Canada Business Corporations Act with its registered and head office located at 1 Place Ville Marie, Suite 3900, Montreal, Quebec. It is a Capital Pool Company and intends for the Qualifying Transaction to constitute its Qualifying Transaction as such term is defined in the TSX.V Policies. Meteorite is a reporting issuer within the meaning of the Securities Act of each of the Provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and Quebec.

Further Information

All information contained in this news release with respect to Meteorite and Kobo was supplied by the parties respectively, for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.

For further information regarding the Qualifying Transaction, please contact:

Charles R. Spector, Director, Meteorite Capital Inc.

Telephone: (514) 878-8847

Email: [email protected]

Edouard Gosselin, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Kobo Resources Inc.

Telephone: 1-418-609-3587

Email: [email protected]

Completion of the Qualifying Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance. Where applicable, the Qualifying Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Qualifying Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Qualifying Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Qualifying Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Qualifying Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

NEITHER THE TSXV NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSXV) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARDLOOKING INFORMATION:

This news release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as expects, or does not expect, is expected, anticipates or does not anticipate, plans, budget, scheduled, forecasts, estimates, believes or intends or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results may or could, would, might or will be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to: the terms and conditions of the proposed Qualifying Transaction, Amalgamation and Consolidation; the satisfaction of the Release Conditions before March 31, 2023; the timing for those events and the business and operations of the Resulting Issuer after the proposed Qualifying Transaction. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; and the delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, Meteorite and Kobo assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005313/en/

Charles R. Spector, Director, Meteorite Capital Inc.

Telephone: (514) 878-8847

Email: [email protected]

Edouard Gosselin, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Kobo Resources Inc.

Telephone: 1-418-609-3587

Email: [email protected]

Source: Kobo Resources Inc.
AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) will present further analyses on SKYRIZI (risankizumab) in Crohn's disease (CD) and RINVOQ (upadacitinib) in ulcerative colitis (UC) as well as the investigational use of upadacitinib in CD at the 18th Congress of European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation (ECCO), to be held March 1-4 in Copenhagen, Denmark. AbbVie will present 24 abstracts, including four oral presentations, two digital oral presentations and 18 posters from a broad range of studies across its inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) portfolio.

"We are excited by the opportunity to present further analyses on the advancements of our expanding IBD portfolio at this year's 18th ECCO Congress," said Sofie Berg, Pharm.D, Ph.D., head of gastroenterology, global medical affairs, AbbVie. "Our data at ECCO underscore AbbVie's unwavering commitment to driving discoveries and delivering advancements for patients where expanded options are needed with the goal of positively impacting the treatment of those living with IBD."

Key data presentations will include:

Sequencing in IBD - Scientific Session 2: Can we do better with current drugs? (2 Mar 2023, 14:30-16:00 CET) OP04 Efficacy of upadacitinib in ulcerative colitis: A Phase 3 post hoc analysis of biologic- and anti-TNF-inadequate response patients

Sequencing in IBD - Scientific Session 5: Endoscopy as precision medicine approach to IBD - in collaboration with the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) (Plenary Hall, 3 Mar 2023, 11:00-12:30 CET) OP16 Endoscopic and clinical outcomes of upadacitinib in patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease by number and type of prior biologics OP17 Upadacitinib improves endoscopic outcomes in patients with moderate to severely active Crohn's disease irrespective of previous failure to respond to biologics or conventional therapies

Sequencing in IBD - Scientific Session 6: Pain in IBD - in collaboration with the European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM) (3 Mar 2023, 13:30-15:30 CET) OP20 The effects of upadacitinib on ulcerative colitis symptom resolution and fatigue normalization in patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis: Phase 3 U-ACHIEVE and U-ACCOMPLISH results



"Despite continued advancements in the treatment of IBD, many patients are still negatively impacted by the burdens of living with their disease," said Silvio Danese, M.D. Ph.D. director of gastroenterology and endoscopy at IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele and professor of gastroenterology at University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy. "AbbVie's research at ECCO helps support their goal of providing a diverse portfolio of treatments and research that continues to advance the standard of care for IBD patients."

The full scientific program for the 18th ECCO Congress is available here.

SKYRIZI (risankizumab) is part of a collaboration between Boehringer Ingelheim and AbbVie, with AbbVie leading development and commercialization globally.
Chinese conglomerate and auto maker, BYD Company is down 1.65% today in Chinese markets after reports that the company cut prices on their vehicles. However, the company replied to reports, saying that the price cuts were not its official move, after the matter sparked discussion over the weekend.

BYD is not currently considering price cuts, a company source told Chinese media, without providing more information.

On February 25, some local media reported that BYD's Dynasty lineup has been reduced in prices and that delivery wait times have been shortened to varying degrees compared to last year. However, further reporting showed that the cuts were actually part of promotions by some dealers in some areas.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
McEwen Copper Inc., a subsidiary of McEwen Mining Inc. (NYSE: MUX), is pleased to announce a binding agreement for an additional US$30 million investment by Nuton LLC, a Rio Tinto Venture, and existing McEwen Copper shareholder.

Nuton has agreed to invest US$30 million to acquire shares of McEwen Copper in a two-part transaction expected to close no later than March 10th, 2023 (the Nuton Transaction) consisting of: 1. Private placement of 350,000 McEwen Copper common shares, and 2. Purchase of 1,250,000 common shares owned by McEwen Mining in a secondary sale. Proceeds of the subscription and purchase are expected to be approximately US$6.5 million to McEwen Copper and US$23.5 million McEwen Mining, respectively. The proceeds of the private placement will be used to advance development of the Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina, and for general corporate purposes.

After closing, Nuton will own 14.2% of McEwen Copper on a fully diluted basis, and McEwen Mining will own 51.9%. The transaction values McEwen Copper at approximately US$550 million.

McEwen Copper Chief Executive Rob McEwen said: We are extremely pleased to have Nutons strong continued participation in McEwen Copper. Together we are exploring new technologies that save energy, water, time and capital in the pursuit of delivering green copper to Argentina and the world, a product that will contribute to the electrification of transportation and the protection of our atmosphere.

In connection with the Transaction, McEwen Copper and certain of its affiliates entered into an Amended Collaboration Agreement (the "New Nuton Collaboration Agreement) and a Copper Cathodes and Concentrates Purchase Rights Agreement (the CCCPRA), which are described below.

The New Nuton Collaboration Agreement provides for the following additional rights beyond those in the original Nuton Collaboration Agreement (see news release dated Aug 31, 2022):

Nuton will have the opportunity to provide local currency funding, in certain circumstances, for advancement of the Los Azules project;

Comprehensive scientific, technical and strategic planning information rights;

Extension of exclusivity over novel, trade secret or patented copper heap leach technologies until August 10, 2024;

Pre-emptive rights to maintain their ownership percentage in any follow-on equity offering; and

Agreement of McEwen Mining and Rob McEwen to not trigger Drag Along Rights in the event of a bid for McEwen Copper prior to the planned initial public offering (IPO).

The CCCPRA provides an option to Nuton that, if exercised to its maximum extent, would allow them to purchase a percentage of the copper products (cathodes, concentrates, etc.) produced from the Los Azules project equal to their equity ownership percentage in McEwen Copper at the time of exercise.

About Nuton

Nuton is an innovative new venture that aims to help grow Rio Tintos copper business. At the core of Nuton is a portfolio of proprietary copper leach-related technologies and capability  a product of almost 30 years of research and development. Nuton Technologies offer the potential to economically unlock copper sulphide resources, copper bearing waste and tailings, and achieve higher copper recoveries on oxide and transitional material, allowing for a significantly increased copper production. One of the key differentiators of Nuton is the potential to deliver leading environmental performance, including more efficient water usage, lower carbon emissions, and the ability to reclaim mine sites by reprocessing mine waste.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is the second largest mining and metals company in the world, operating in 35 countries, and producing the raw materials essential to human progress. It aims to help pioneer a more sustainable future, from partnering in the development of technology that can make the aluminum smelting process entirely free of direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, to providing the world with the materials it needs  such as copper  to build a new low-carbon economy and products like electric vehicles, charging infrastructure and smartphones.

About McEwen Copper

McEwen Copper Inc. holds 100% interest in the Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina and the Elder Creek project in Nevada, USA (subject to an earn-in by Rio Tinto).

Los Azules was ranked in the top 10 largest undeveloped copper deposits in the world by Mining Intelligence (2022). Its current copper resources are estimated at 10.2 billion pounds at a grade of 0.48% Cu (Indicated category) and an additional 19.3 billion pounds at a grade of 0.33% Cu (Inferred category).

After closing the Nuton Transaction, McEwen Copper will have 28,885,000 common shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis, and its shareholders are: McEwen Mining Inc. 51.9%, Stellantis 14.2%, Nuton 14.2%, Rob McEwen 13.8%, Victor Smorgon Group 3.5%, and other shareholders 2.4%.

About McEwen Mining

McEwen Mining is a gold and silver producer with operations in Nevada, Canada, Mexico and Argentina. In addition, it owns approximately 52% of McEwen Copper which owns the large, advanced stage Los Azules copper project in Argentina. The Companys goal is to improve the productivity and life of its assets with the objective of increasing its share price and providing a yield. Its Chairman and Chief Owner has personally provided the company with $220 million and takes an annual salary of $1.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and information, including "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements and information expressed, as at the date of this news release, McEwen Mining Inc.'s (the "Company") estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results. Forward-looking statements and information are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies, and there can be no assurance that such statements and information will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and information. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, political, economic, social and security risks associated with foreign operations, the ability of the corporation to receive or receive in a timely manner permits or other approvals required in connection with operations, risks associated with the construction of mining operations and commencement of production and the projected costs thereof, risks related to litigation, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves, and other risks. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information included herein, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See McEwen Mining's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the caption "Risk Factors", for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information regarding the Company. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

The NYSE and TSX have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release, which has been prepared by management of McEwen Mining Inc.

WEB SITE SOCIAL MEDIA www.mcewenmining.com McEwen Mining Facebook: facebook.com/mcewenmining CONTACT INFORMATION LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mcewen-mining-inc- Twitter: twitter.com/mcewenmining 150 King Street West Instagram: instagram.com/mcewenmining Suite 2800, PO Box 24 Toronto, ON, Canada McEwen Copper M5H 1J9 Facebook: facebook.com/mcewencopper LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mcewencopper Relationship with Investors: Twitter: twitter.com/mcewencopper (866)-441-0690 Toll free Instagram: instagram.com/mcewencopper (647)-258-0395 Rob McEwen Mihaela Iancu ext. 320 Facebook: facebook.com/mcewenrob [email protected] LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robert-mcewen-646ab24 Twitter: twitter.com/robmcewenmux




Otis Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: OTIS) announces the appointment of Sally Loh as President, Otis China, reporting directly to Otis Chair, CEO & President, Judy Marks. Effective March 1, Loh will succeed Perry Zheng, who will return to Otis World Headquarters in the newly created role of Executive Vice President, Chief Product, Delivery and Customer Officer.

"Sally's years of experience and deep knowledge of our operations and team in China uniquely position her to lead our China region business," said Otis Chair, CEO & President, Judy Marks. "As President of Otis China, Sally will continue to evaluate and respond to market dynamics to ensure ongoing growth and development of our business through our innovative product and service offerings, while focusing on the digital transformation across our Service, New Equipment field installation, manufacturing and enterprise operations. Sally's appointment is also an exciting milestone in our parity journey, as she becomes our first female regional president in Otis' history."

Loh has been with Otis for 23 years, working closely alongside Zheng for several years. She was most recently Chief Operating Officer (COO) responsible for day-to-day business operations of Otis China. Prior to her COO role, she was the Chief Financial Officer for Otis China, and has held several other roles of increasing responsibility across our Asia business. Sally holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from Nanyang Technological University (Singapore) and an MBA from the University of Manchester (UK).

After nine years leading our China region, also serving in a dual role as Chief Customer Product Officer since 2021, Zheng will return to Otis global headquarters in March to assume the role of Executive Vice President, Chief Product, Delivery and Customer Officer. Our product lifecycle and workflow  from design to manufacturing, installation to service  includes a critical interdependency between specialties and teams. In his new role, Zheng will lead Product Management, Engineering, Field Operations, Supply Chain, Operations Strategy, and Sales and Marketing, with focus, pace and competitive positioning, ensuring we identify strategic programs with shared goals, objectives and accountability, while continuing to move our business forward with strategic vision and the tools and processes to best support to our regions and customers.

"We're looking forward to welcoming Perry back to our global headquarters. His passion for serving our customers, along with the deep Otis knowledge and experience he has acquired over more than two decades, will truly help us live our mission as a world-class, customer-centric, service-oriented company," added Marks.
FILE PHOTO: Signage is seen at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) headquarters in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 14, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly

By John Kruzel

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday agreed to decide whether the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's funding structure established by Congress violates the U.S. Constitution in a case that President Joe Biden's administration has said threatens the agency's ability to function and risks market disruption.

The justices took up the CFPB's appeal of a lower court's ruling in a lawsuit brought by trade groups representing the payday loan industry that the agency's funding mechanism violated a constitutional provision giving lawmakers the power of the purse. The agency, which enforces consumer financial laws, draws money each year from U.S. Federal Reserve earnings rather than budgets passed by Congress.

The case is the latest to come before the Supreme Court seeking to rein in the authority of federal agencies. The court's 6-3 conservative majority has signaled skepticism toward expansive regulatory power in rulings in recent years including one in 2022 that limited the Environmental Protection Agency's authority to issue sweeping regulations to reduce carbon emissions from power plants.

A CFPB spokesperson, welcoming the court's decision to hear the appeal, said there is nothing "novel or unusual" about the agency's funding structure.

"As it did for the Federal Reserve Board and other federal banking regulators, Congress authorized the CFPB's funding through legislation other than annual spending bills," the spokesperson said. "This type of funding is a vital part of the nation's financial regulatory system, providing stability and continuity for the agencies and the system as a whole."

The justices will hear the case during the court's next term, which begins in October. Biden's administration had asked that the case be heard in the court's current term.

The CFPB was created by Democratic-led Congress in 2010, following the 2008 financial crisis, as part of a federal law called the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.

"Despite years of desperate attacks from Republicans and corporate lobbyists, the constitutionality of the CFPB and its funding structure have been upheld time and time again," said Democratic U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, who championed the agency's formation and is a staunch defender of its mission. "If the Supreme Court follows more than a century of law and historical precedent, it will strike down the 5th Circuit's decision before it throws our financial markets and economy into chaos."

A lawyer for the trade groups did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Community Financial Services Association of America and the Consumer Service Alliance of Texas sued in 2018. They argued that the CFPB's "perpetual budget" was improperly exempted from congressional supervision, violating the constitutional principle of separation of powers among the U.S. government's executive, legislative and judicial branches.

The lawsuit also took aim at a CFPB regulation designed to curb "unfair" and "abusive" payday lending practices. The 2017 rule barred lenders from trying to withdraw loan repayments from a borrower's bank account after two consecutive attempts failed due to insufficient funds unless the consumer consented.

A federal judge in 2021 sided with the agency. But the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals last October ruled that the funding structure violated the Constitution's "appropriations clause," which vests spending authority in Congress. The decision, by a panel of three judges appointed by Republican then-President Donald Trump, also vacated the 2017 regulation.

Biden's administration told the Supreme Court that the CFPB's funding structure devised by Congress - providing that a fixed amount go to the agency each year - was effectively "a standing, capped lump-sum appropriation." The Fed last fiscal year transferred around $642 million to the agency.

The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in another case in 2020 that legal restrictions on a president's ability to fire the CFPB director without cause was an unconstitutional infringement upon presidential authority, though the justices stopped short of invalidating the agency.

The court heard arguments in November in two further cases involving agency power. The conservative justices in those cases appeared inclined to make it easier to challenge the regulatory power of agencies in disputes involving the Federal Trade Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission.

(Reporting by John Kruzel; Editing by Will Dunham)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen delivers remarks on "Next Steps in the Evolution of Development Finance" at a Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, U.S., February 9, 2023. REUTERS/Leah Millis

By Rod Nickel

KYIV (Reuters) -U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen paid a surprise visit to Kyiv on Monday to reaffirm U.S. support for Ukraine in its struggle against Russia's invasion and promote U.S. economic aid that is bolstering Ukraine's war effort.

Yellen met with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and other key government officials just days into the war's second year, repeating U.S. assurances delivered by President Joe Biden a week ago in Kyiv.

"America will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes," Yellen, flanked by sandbags at the cabinet ministers' office, told Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, in a trip also aimed at shoring up support at home for continued aid.

In a private meeting with Zelenskiy late in the afternoon, the Treasury chief aid she commended him "for his leadership and resolve in the face of Russia's illegal and unprovoked war."

Yellen said she welcomed Zelenskiy's actions to strengthen governance and address corruption - actions needed to ensure that U.S. economic aid is being spent responsibly, a message she repeated in her meeting with Marchenko.

"The United States has been powerfully supporting us since the first days of this war not only with weapons, but also on the financial front," Zelenskiy said on his Telegram social media channel.

"It is necessary to further strengthen sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war."

In public remarks, Shmyhal said he and Yellen discussed additional sanctions on Russia, including confiscating frozen Russian assets to benefit Ukraine's recovery.

But Yellen told reporters in a phone briefing that there were still significant legal obstacles to fully seizing some $300 billion in Russian frozen central bank assets and expressed caution about new curbs on Russia's nuclear energy sector.

Yellen announced the transfer of the first $1.25 billion from the latest, $9.9 billion tranche of economic and budget assistance from Washington.

AIR RAID SIREN ON ARRIVAL

Yellen's visit comes a week after Biden staged an unannounced trip to Kyiv and promised $500 million in additional military aid for Ukraine and new sanctions on Russia announced days later, including effectively banning U.S. imports of Russian aluminum.

As Biden did, Yellen's staff worked to keep the visit a secret until she left Kyiv, with a daily media advisory for Monday saying only that she would "meet with advisors and staff."

She traveled into Kyiv via an overnight train with a small group of senior aides after landing in a U.S. military aircraft near Rzeszow, Poland, near Ukraine's western border, and left again by overnight train after a full day of meetings.

Shortly before her arrival in the capital, city air raid sirens wailed as a warning of a possible attack, although they often turn out to be false alarms.

On a chilly morning, Yellen laid a wreath at a memorial wall for Ukrainian soldiers killed in the war, saying: "I am witnessing first-hand the devastating toll of Putin's brutal war."

She stopped to inspect a destroyed Russian tank and mobile artillery piece on display at a city square cleared of visitors and met with first responders from the city's emergency services.

BUDGET SUPPORT

Yellen visited Kyiv on her return to Washington from a G20 finance leaders meeting in Bengaluru, India, where she urged counterparts to boost economic aid to Ukraine and insisted that G20 ministers issue a strong condemnation of Russia's invasion.

Since the war began, the U.S. has given Ukraine more than $13 billion in economic and budget support funding, and the latest disbursement will push that to over $14 billion, with an additional $8.65 billion expected through Sept. 30.

Yellen and Treasury officials viewed the trip as a key way to reinforce the importance of sustaining economic and budgetary assistance for Ukraine to the American public, a Treasury official said, amid signals from some Republican lawmakers that they are growing skeptical.

Ukraine is estimated to need $40 billion to $57 billion in external financing this year to support its economy and is negotiating a $15.5 billion loan program with the International Monetary Fund to partly fill the gap.

Yellen told Marchenko she backed completion of a fully financed program for Ukraine with the IMF by the end of March, Treasury said in a statement.

Yellen said such economic support is keeping Ukraine's government and critical public services running, schools open and pensions paid, providing a "bedrock of stability" that fuels Ukrainian resistance.

"A sustained military effort cannot succeed without an effective government at home," Yellen said at the Kyiv Obolon School No. 168, where the salaries of teachers, administrators and support staff are reimbursed from U.S. budget support funds.

A chalkboard at the school, damaged in Russia's initial assault on the capital last year, read "Crimea is Ours," next to one with "2+2=4."

(Additional reporting by David Lawder and Andrea Shalal; Writing by David Lawder; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Marguerita Choy)
Cleveland, OH, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Chris Benko, CPA, was named a Notable Leader in Accounting and Consulting by Crains Cleveland as announced today. The prestigious list recognizes accountants and consultants from Northeastern Ohio for accomplishments in the last 18 months.

As a principal with Apple Growth Partners (AGP), Benko provides audit and assurance services for closely held companies. He has been with the firm for more than 25 years and is the leader of our construction and real estate niche. Benko also provides consulting on the accounting and finance practices of manufacturing companies in Northeast Ohio. He currently serves as an executive board member of Tri-County Independent Living Center and the Seville Kiwanis Club and is a member of the Medina County Port Authority Board of Directors. Benko earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from The University of Akron, where he served as a Past Chairman and former member of The University of Akron College of Business Alumni Board and a former member of the University of Akron National Alumni Board. He has served on the Apple Growth Partners Community Outreach Charitable Giving Fund committee and supported the community as a member of the United Way Corporate Recruiting Team. As a key member of our firms principal leadership team, Benko has led initiatives within AGP, resulting in growth in key industries  manufacturing, construction, real estate, and nonprofits. He also mentors staff members, including encouraging board and community involvement.

Chris is an exemplary accounting professional with considerable experience within Northeastern Ohio in construction, manufacturing, real estate, and nonprofits, comments Chuck Mullen, chairman. He has more than 25 years of experience leading our firm in multiple ways.

Chris demonstrates our firms mission of taking care of each other and providing excellent service by leading as a principal within our audit and assurance department, adds Erica Ishida, president. He is consistently training and mentoring new staff, which is critical for our audit department.

We are proud for Chris to represent our firm, and to be included on this is evidence of his commitment to Northeastern Ohio and the accounting industry, says Mullen.

About Apple Growth Partners

Apple Growth Partners (AGP) is an award-winning accounting and business advisory firm with more than 77 years of creative solutions that deliver healthy, sustainable growth. AGP offers a full range of services for privately held businesses, including tax planning and compliance, audit and assurance, business valuation, litigation consulting, employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs), fraud prevention and detection, family office services for High-Net-Worth individuals, and transaction advisory. With more than 100 employees, AGP collaborates with business owners and partners across Ohio and beyond, extending client services through a remote workforce in 2020 while maintaining office locations in Akron, Canton, Charlotte (AGPN, PLLC), Chicago, and Cleveland. AGPs professionals provide expertise in additional industries and services, such as employee benefit plans, bookkeeping, auto dealerships, manufacturing, construction and real estate, and minority-owned businesses. AGPs mission statement is championing the Healthy Growth of our people, our clients, and our communities through authenticity, exceptional service, and taking care of each other.

To learn more, visit http://www.applegrowth.com.

####

Attachment

Jordan Morlani Apple Growth Partners [email protected]

Source: Apple Growth Partners
BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Arctic Semiconductor formerly known as SiTune Corporation, a leader in low-power, universal RF chipsets, today announced that its groundbreaking RF transceiver, IceWings is powering a new universal 5G small cell infrastructure platform from Compal Electronics, one of the worlds largest ODMs. The worlds first open ecosystem small cell platform leverages IceWings design integrated with NXP Semiconductors Layerscape Access LA12xx programmable baseband processor to achieve the highest performance at the lowest power consumption and beats 3GPP standard requirements, all at a competitive cost. The platform will be demonstrated at Mobile World Congress 2023 in Barcelona.

The introduction of this universal small cell platform is a pivotal point in 5G infrastructure development, allowing 5G coverage to scale anywhere and everywhere at an exponentially faster pace, said Vahid Toosi, CEO of Arctic Semiconductor. Our collaboration with NXP and Compal has created a 5G platform with an unbeatable mix of performance, flexibility and cost that unlocks the true potential of 5G infrastructure and applications. Arctic prioritizes collaboration with key industry partners to build highly integrated platforms and remove barriers towards reaping the benefits of 5G across various market segments.

The new infrastructure platform can operate at any 5G FR1 frequency bands from 600MHz to 7.2GHz. A 4x4 MIMO solution, it is fully integrated with best-in-class components and supports throughputs beyond Gbps speeds. Customers across the globe can use the universal platform to produce cost-optimized, low-power 5G small cells and O-RAN Radio Units for a wide range of applications including all-in-one or distributed networks in public or private bands.

Compal selected Arctics IceWings, an innovative RF transceiver with 4 integrated transmitters and receivers that supports a wide range of standards in signal frequencies below 7.2GHz. The new silicon is based on an advanced CMOS process node, providing superior performance with RF enhancements for both 5G Sub-7GHz and mmWave infrastructure.

The IceWings design allows us to build a more compact, reliable platform that consumes far less power, said JS Liang, Vice President from Compal. IceWings is fully integrated, compatible with NXP baseband processors, covers multiple 5G frequency bands, and is fully programmable while meeting 3GPP specifications. Our collaboration with Arctic jointly creates the worlds first truly universal small cell infrastructure platform for 5G comprised of best-in-class components capable of supporting product needs of our customers worldwide.

This integrated small cell system is based on NXPs Layerscape multicore Arm SoC and is coupled with the new LA12xx software defined radio. Together this solution supports high throughput transmission and reception as well as highly complex digital functions including Digital Pre-Distortion. The IceWings RFIC is highly integrated and delivers 4 transmit and 4 receive paths via a glue-less interface directly to NXPs LA12xx baseband processor.

By integrating support for our high performance Layerscape solutions, Arctic joins NXPs growing 5G ecosystem of collaborators that are enabling innovative and faster time-to-market solutions, said Jeff Steinheider, Vice President of Industrial Edge Processing Product Line at NXP Semiconductor. This new 5G NR platform from Compal is an excellent example of how that growing ecosystem can deliver more choices for our global customers, along with greater flexibility and scalability to accelerate their 5G infrastructure deployments globally.

About Arctic SemiconductorArctic Semiconductor is a leading provider of energy-efficient, versatile RF and mixed-signal chipset solutions for wireless networks. These chipsets enable wireless equipment manufacturers to create cost-effective advanced radios for applications such as small cells, fixed wireless access, private networks, massive MIMO, and macro cells. Previously known as SiTune Corporation, the company is based in Silicon Valley and is at the forefront of innovation with over 40 patents. Arctic Semiconductor is driving the global adoption of 5G radio technology and is leading the way in this rapidly evolving industry. To learn more, visit www.arcticsemiconductor.com.

Media contact: Chris Fucanan AquaLab PR for Arctic Semiconductor [email protected] 916-684-9781

Source: Arctic Semiconductor
LONDON, Ontario, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PEARL RIVER HOLDINGS LIMITED (Pearl River) (TSXV: PRH) announced today that it understands that George Lunick (the "Acquiror"), the President and Chief Executive Officer of Pearl River, acquired 250,000 common shares (the "Common Shares") in the capital of Pearl River at a price of $0.28 per Common Share, representing 0.92% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Pearl River. The Common Shares were offered and purchased through the facilities of the TSX Venture Exchange for an aggregate purchase price of $70,000.

Immediately before the acquisition, the Acquiror and its "joint actors" (as defined in National Instrument 61-103  The Early Warning System and Related Take-Over Bid and Insider Reporting Issues) owned and controlled 2,129,893 Common Shares, being approximately 7.80% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Pearl River, and 1,000,000 options to purchase Common Shares (the Options). Assuming the exercise of the Options, the Common Shares of Pearl River that the Acquiror and the joint actors would own or control on such exercise would be 3,129,893 Common Shares, or approximately 11.06% of the Common Shares of Pearl River on a partially diluted basis.

Immediately after the acquisition, the Acquiror and is joint actors, owned or controlled 2,379,893 Common Shares, being approximately 8.71% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares of Pearl River. Assuming the exercise of the Options, the Common Shares of Pearl River that the Acquiror and the joint actors would own or control on such exercise would be 3,379,893 Common Shares, or approximately 11.94% of the Common Shares of Pearl River on a partially diluted basis.

The securities of Pearl River were acquired for investment purposes. The Acquiror reserves the right, directly or indirectly, to acquire ownership or control over additional securities in accordance with applicable securities legislation or from time to time to dispose of any securities of Pearl River that the Acquiror may own.

A copy of the Early Warning Report will appear on Pearl Rivers profile on SEDAR.

The address of the Acquiror and Pearl River is Suite 500 - 383 Richmond Street, London, Ontario, N6A 3C4.

ABOUT PEARL RIVER

Through its subsidiaries, Pearl River's principal business is the manufacturing and distribution of plastic products in China, Australia and the United States of America.

For further information please contact:

George LunickChief Executive OfficerT: (519) 645-0267E: [email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Source: Pearl River Holdings Limited
Attn: Assignment Editor

TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leda Raptis from Kingston was charged $2,000 for an MRI at a private clinic. She needed the MRI for open heart surgery. When she looked at the bill, the clinic said the charge was for contrast. Either way, the two thousand dollar charge is illegal in Ontario and in Canada.

Leda was joined in a press conference this morning at the Ontario Legislature by Chris from Sarnia, who was charged $2,000 when she went to a private for-profit clinic for cataract surgery and then another $1,800 for a follow up surgery. Cathy from Niagara was charged $100 for a medically necessary liver scan at a private for-profit clinic. Judy Wolanskis husband, from Sarnia, was turned down for hernia surgery from the private for-profit Shouldice Hospital because he had COPD and they told him to go to a facility better suited to deal with a potential medical emergency. He had his surgery as a day surgery in a public hospital without complications and with no extra charges.

These four patients joined advocates from the Ontario Health Coalition to call out the Ford governments claim that their plan to privatize Ontarios public hospitals core services  surgeries and diagnostics  would not result in extra user charges for patients.

Doug Fords claims are patently untrue. They have been in government for five years and have never used their existing powers to crack down on private clinics extra-billing patients, manipulating them into buying all kinds of medically unnecessary procedures and tests, and violating the laws that protect public medicare, said Natalie Mehra, executive director of the Ontario Health Coalition. Why would any Ontarian believe this government? They have not once held for-profit health care corporations accountable so far, not even for negligence, death, illegal extra-billing and selling medically unneeded services to seniors.

Under the Canada Health Act, patients are protected from extra-billing and user fees. Such charges are banned and all medically necessary hospital and physician services are covered by public medicare (OHIP). A patient cannot be charged for a medically necessary surgery no matter what facility performs it. Nor can a patient be charged for a needed diagnostic test. Private clinics cannot attach a medically unnecessary service to a medically necessary surgery or test in order to extra-bill patients. They cannot manipulate patients into paying by pretending unnecessary services are necessary. The Ford government could have fined the private clinics and doctors in violation of the Canada Health Act and Ontarios Commitment to the Future of Medicare Act (2004). It has not done so and does not need new legislation to do so. It simply needs to actually enforce the law.

In fact, the Coalition reported that under the Ford government privatization of Ontarios health care has expanded dramatically and user fees for patients have proliferated. The Coalition demanded that Ford stop the privatization of Ontarios public hospitals, noting that virtually every public hospital in Ontario has operating rooms that are closed in the evenings, on weekends, for months or even permanently due to underfunding. (Ontario funds its hospitals at the lowest rate in Canada.) The Coalition called on the government to resource and use the capacity in our public hospitals to clear backlogs and improve access. For a fact checker and brief case studies of 20 patients who have been extra-billed thousands of dollars in private clinics in Ontario recently, please go to: https://bit.ly/3IzvN6i

For more information: Natalie Mehra, executive director, 416-230-6402.

Source: Ontario Health Coalition
TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- St Charles Resources Inc. (St Charles or the Company) (TSXV: SCRS.P) is pleased to announce that it has received conditional approval from the TSX Venture Exchange (the TSXV) in respect of its proposed qualifying transaction (the Proposed Transaction) with Eastern Resources OOD. (Eastern Resources) pursuant to Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the TSXV.

In accordance with the previously announced business combination agreement dated January 31, 2023 and immediately at closing of the Proposed Transaction, St Charles, on behalf of Eastern Resources (UK) Ltd. (AcquireCo), a wholly-owned subsidiary of St Charles, will issue 33,333,300 common shares of the resulting issuer (the Resulting Issuer Shares) to acquire 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Eastern Resources (the Eastern Resources Shares) from the shareholders of Eastern Resources (the Eastern Resources Shareholders) on the basis of 952,380 Resulting Issuer Shares for each 1 Eastern Resources Share acquired by AcquireCo. Concurrently, the Eastern Resources Shareholders will transfer all of their Eastern Resources Shares to AcquireCo, such that Eastern Resources will become, indirectly, a wholly-owned subsidiary of St Charles (the Resulting Issuer) upon completion of the Proposed Transaction. The Proposed Transaction is expected to close on or about March 10, 2023.

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions including the receipt of final approval from the TSXV. Trading in the common shares of St Charles is presently halted and will remain halted until completion of the Proposed Transaction.

Filing Statement

In connection with the Proposed Transaction and pursuant to TSXV requirements, St Charles has filed a filing statement dated February 23, 2023 under its profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).

About Eastern Resources

Eastern Resources is a private gold exploration company incorporated under the laws of Bulgaria with its head office located in Sofia, Bulgaria. At the time of closing of the Proposed Transaction, the capital of Eastern Resources will consist of 35 issued and outstanding Eastern Resources Shares. Eastern Resources is and has been since incorporation focused on mineral exploration projects in Bulgaria. Eastern Resources material mineral and exploration projects consist of the Kostilkovo gold property (Kostilkovo Gold Project) and the Kutel gold property (Kutel Gold Project).

Eastern Resources has four shareholders: Seefin Capital OOD, as represented by Mr. Sean Hasson, Balkan Mineral & Discovery EOOD, as represented by Mr. Danko Zhelev, GEOPS-Bolkan Drilling Services EOOD, as represented by Mr. Vasil Andreev and Dundee Resources Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of Dundee Corporation.

Eastern Resources controls 100% of two quality epithermal gold projects located in the Bulgarian portion of the Western Tethyan Belt: the Kutel Gold Project and the Kostilkovo Gold Project. Management of Eastern Resources believes that its assets show potential for high-grade, good-metallurgy and low-sulfidation epithermal gold mineralisation.

The business of the Resulting Issuer will be primarily focused on the exploration of the Kutel Gold Project, the Kostilkovo Gold Project, and acquisition of additional properties in line with its focused exploration strategy.

About St Charles Resources Inc.

St Charles Resources Inc. is designated as a Capital Pool Company under TSXV Policy 2.4. The Company has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. The Companys objective is to identify and evaluate businesses or assets with a view to completing a Qualifying Transaction as defined in and in accordance with Policy 2.4  Capital Pool Companies of the Corporate Finance Manual of the TSXV. Any proposed Qualifying Transaction must be approved by the TSXV and, in the case of a non-arms length Qualifying Transaction, must also receive majority approval of the minority shareholders. Until the completion of a Qualifying Transaction, the Company will not carry on any business other than the identification and evaluation of businesses or assets with a view to completing a proposed Qualifying Transaction.

For further information regarding the Company and the Proposed Transaction, please contact James Crombie, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Company, at 514-825-4222.

For further information regarding Eastern Resources and the Proposed Transaction, please contact Sean Hasson, at +359 2 989 2361.

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and if applicable pursuant to TSXV requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Proposed Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as expects or does not expect, is expected, intends, or believes, or variations (including negative and grammatical variations) of such words and phrases or state that certain acts, events or results may, could, would, might or will be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking information in this press release may include, without limitation, statements relating to: the completion of the Proposed Transaction and the timing thereof, the proposed business of the Resulting Issuer, references to the potential of the Kutel Gold Project and the Kostilkovo Gold Project, and shareholder and regulatory approvals.

These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, including risks regarding the mining industry, commodity prices, market conditions, general economic factors, managements ability to manage and to operate the business, and explore and develop the projects of the Resulting Issuer, and the equity markets generally. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance of each of the Company and Eastern Resources may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Any number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements as well as future results. Although each of the Company and Eastern Resources believes that the expectations reflected in forward looking statements are reasonable, they can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, each of the Company and Eastern Resources disclaims any intention and assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions, changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements or otherwise.

Source: St Charles Resources Inc.
TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wallbridge Mining Company Limited (TSX:WM, OTCQX: WLBMF) (Wallbridge or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement of 37,956,353 national flow-through common shares (the National FT Shares) and 8,000,000 Quebec flow-through common shares (the Quebec FT Shares) for aggregate gross proceeds of $8,621,925 (the FT Share Private Placement). The National FT Shares were issued at a price of $0.185 and the Quebec FT Shares were issued at a price of $0.20.

In addition, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (Agnico) has elected to subscribe for 6,000,000 common shares for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,020,000 (the AEM Private Placement, and together with the FT Share Private Placement, the Private Placements). Subject to negotiation of the definitive agreement and other customary closing conditions, the AEM Private Placement is expected to close on or about March 10, 2023 and will be undertaken pursuant to certain participation rights set out in a pre-existing participation agreement between the Company and a predecessor of Agnico. The AEM Shares will be issued at a price of $0.17.

In connection with the FT Share Private Placement, the Company paid a cash finders fee of 4% . All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placements will have a four month and one day statutory hold period. The offering is subject to the final acceptance of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the Exchange).

The net proceeds from the Private Placements will be used to support the Companys 2023 exploration program at the Companys Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property. The financings announced today provide the Company with sufficient cash reserves to fund the previously announced 2023 exploration program on the Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property.

Each National FT Share and Quebec FT Share (the FT Shares) will qualify as a flow-through share within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and, in respect of eligible Quebec resident subscribers, section 359.1 of the Taxation Act (Quebec). The FT Shares will be renounced with an effective date no later than December 31, 2023 to the initial purchasers of the FT Shares in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised.

None of the securities offered in the Private Placements have been registered under the U.S. 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 press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

The FT Share Private Placement constituted a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101) as certain insiders of the Company subscribed for 1,391,541 in aggregate of National FT Shares and 250,000 in aggregate of Quebec FT Shares. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the participation in the FT Share Private Placement by the insiders does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the FT Share Private Placement, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances in order to price and close the FT Share Private Placement in an expeditious manner. A material change report will be filed under the Companys profile at www.sedar.com, which may be sent to any shareholder upon request.

About Wallbridge Mining

Wallbridge is focused on creating value through the exploration and sustainable development of gold projects along the Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend while respecting the environment and communities where it operates.

Wallbridges flagship project, Fenelon Gold (Fenelon), is located on the highly prospective Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property in Quebecs Northern Abitibi region. An updated mineral resource estimate completed in January 2023 yielded significantly improved grades and additional ounces at the 100%-owned Fenelon and Martiniere properties, incorporating a combined 3.05 million ounces of Indicated gold resources and 2.35 million ounces of Inferred gold resources. Fenelon and Martiniere are located within an approximate 830 km2 exploration land package controlled by Wallbridge. The Company believes that these two deposits have good potential for economic development, especially given their proximity to existing hydro-electric power and transportation infrastructure. In addition, Wallbridge believes that the extensive land package is extremely prospective for the discovery of additional gold deposits.

Wallbridge also holds a 19.9% interest in the common shares of Archer Exploration Corp. (Archer) as a result of the sale of the Companys portfolio of nickel assets in Ontario and Quebec in November of 2022.

Wallbridge will continue to focus on its core Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property while enabling shareholders to participate in the potential economic upside in Archer.

For further information please visit the Companys website at www.wallbridgemining.com or contact:

Wallbridge Mining Company Limited

Marz Kord, P. Eng., M. Sc., MBAPresident & CEOTel: (705) 6829297 ext. 251Email: [email protected]

Victoria Vargas, B.Sc. (Hon.) Economics, MBAInvestor Relations AdvisorEmail: [email protected]

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements or information (collectively, FLI) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. FLI is based on expectations, estimates, projections, and interpretations as at the date of this press release.

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are FLI that involve various risks, assumptions, estimates and uncertainties. Generally, FLI can be identified by the use of statements that include words such as seeks, believes, anticipates, plans, continues, budget, scheduled, estimates, expects, forecasts, intends, projects, predicts, proposes, potential, targets and variations of such words and phrases, or by statements that certain actions, events or results may, will, could, would, should or might, be taken, occur or be achieved.

FLI herein includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding: the use of proceeds of the Private Placements; the tax treatment of the securities issued under the FT Share Private Placement under the Income Tax Act (Canada); the timing to renounce all qualifying expenditures in favour of the subscribers (if at all); the future prospects of Wallbridge; historical trends; current conditions and expected future developments; future drill results; the Companys ability to convert inferred resources into measured and indicated resources; environmental matters; stakeholder engagement and relationships; parameters and methods used to estimate the mineral resource estimates (each an MRE) at the Fenelon and Martiniere properties (collectively the Deposits); the prospects, if any, of the Deposits; future drilling at the Deposits; and the significance of historic exploration activities and results.

FLI is designed to help you understand managements current views of its near- and longer-term prospects, and it may not be appropriate for other purposes. FLI 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 FLI. Although the FLI contained in this press release is based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders and prospective purchasers of securities of the Company that actual results will be consistent with such FLI, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such FLI. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such FLI contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law. Unless otherwise noted, this press release has been prepared based on information available as of the date of this press release. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on the FLI or information contained herein.

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 FLI.

Assumptions upon which FLI is based, without limitation, include the results of exploration activities; the Companys financial position and general economic conditions; the ability of exploration activities to accurately predict mineralization; the accuracy of geological modelling; the ability of the Company to complete further exploration activities; the legitimacy of title and property interests in the Deposits; the accuracy of key assumptions, parameters or methods used to estimate the MREs; the ability of the Company to obtain required governmental, regulatory, environmental or other required approvals; the evolution of the global economic climate; metal prices; environmental expectations; community and non-governmental actions; any impacts of COVID-19 on the Deposits; and, the Companys ability to secure required funding. Risks and uncertainties about Wallbridge's business are more fully discussed in the disclosure materials filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada, which are available at www.sedar.com.

Information Concerning Estimates of Mineral Resources

The disclosure in this press release and referred to herein was prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 which differs significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). The terms measured mineral resource, indicated mineral resource and inferred mineral resource used in this press release are in reference to the mining terms defined in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Standards (the CIM Definition Standards), which definitions have been adopted by NI 43-101. Accordingly, information contained in this press release providing descriptions of our mineral deposits in accordance with NI 43-101 may not be comparable to similar information made public by other U.S. companies subject to the United States federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder.

Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral resources will ever be converted into reserves. Pursuant to CIM Definition Standards, inferred mineral resources are that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. Such geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological and grade or quality continuity. An inferred mineral resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an indicated mineral resource and must not be converted to a mineral reserve. However, it is reasonably expected that the majority of inferred mineral resources could be upgraded to indicated mineral resources with continued exploration. Under Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource is economically or legally mineable. Disclosure of contained ounces in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute reserves by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures.

Canadian standards, including the CIM Definition Standards and NI 43-101, differ significantly from standards in the SEC Industry Guide 7. Effective February 25, 2019, the SEC adopted new mining disclosure rules under subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the SEC Modernization Rules), with compliance required for the first fiscal year beginning on or after January 1, 2021. The SEC Modernization Rules replace the historical property disclosure requirements included in SEC Industry Guide 7. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, the SEC now recognizes estimates of measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources. Information regarding mineral resources contained or referenced in this press release may not be comparable to similar information made public by companies that report according to U.S. standards. While the SEC Modernization Rules are purported to be substantially similar to the CIM Definition Standards, readers are cautioned that there are differences between the SEC Modernization Rules and the CIM Definitions Standards. Accordingly, there is no assurance any mineral resources that the Company may report as measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources under NI 43-101 would be the same had the Company prepared the resource estimates under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules.

The technical content of this release has been compiled, reviewed and approved by Francois Chabot, Eng, Technical Studies Manager of the Company and a "Qualified Person" as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Source: Wallbridge Mining Company Limited
3D printed clouds and figurines are seen in front of the VMware cloud service logo in this illustration taken February 8, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

By Foo Yun Chee

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -U.S. chipmaker Broadcom is set to receive a European Union antitrust warning about the possible anti-competitive effects of its proposed $61 billion bid for cloud computing company VMware in the coming weeks, people familiar with the matter said.

The European Commission opened an investigation in December, saying the deal, announced last year, would allow Broadcom to restrict competition in the market for certain hardware components which interoperate with VMware's software.

The EU competition enforcer, which will decide on the deal by June 7, declined to comment.

Tech M&A deals have attracted more intense scrutiny on both sides of the Atlantic recently as regulators worry about giant companies acquiring smaller, more innovative rivals.

The Commission will set out its concerns in a statement of objections, the people said. Companies can subsequently ask for a closed hearing to defend their deals in front of senior Commission and national competition officials as well as rivals and the Commission's lawyers.

Broadcom is expected to offer remedies only after receiving the EU charge sheet and not before that, with no asset sale foreseen, one of the sources said.

Broadcom said it would continue its "constructive work" with the Commission. The deal has received the green light in Brazil, South Africa and Canada, while the UK competition watchdog is investigating the acquisition.

"We continue to expect the transaction will close in Broadcom's fiscal year 2023," the company said.

The two companies received a "second request" for information about their deal from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission in July, indicating that the planned transaction would be closely scrutinized, according to a government filing.

U.S. antitrust enforcers have sought to stop an unusually large number of deals during the Biden administration because of concerns over concentration in the U.S. economy.

Broadcom has told the EU enforcer that the presence of Amazon, Microsoft and Google shows that there is strong competition in the cloud computing market, other people familiar with the matter told Reuters in October.

Beltug, a Belgian association of CIOs & Digital Technology leaders, and its counterparts France's Cigref, CIO platform Nederland and VOICE Germany have said that the deal could lead to big price increases and tougher commercial practices against customers.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee, Additional reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Louise Heavens, Jane Merriman and Marguerita Choy)
Denver, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - CBD of Denver, Inc. (OTC Pink: CBDD), a full-line distributor of CBD, Cannabis, Hemp oil and nanotechnology products in Switzerland and Europe provides updates on Libra 9 GMBH and the Magic Lappen.

CBDD, Libra 9, and Axel Reinke have secured a purchase order with the Famila chain of stores in Germany. The initial purchase order is for 2,400 pieces of the Magic Lappen, and it will be distributed to all 90 stores along with a point-of-sale display developed by Libra 9, please visit our InstaGram for pictures of the displays. Representatives from Libra 9 will also hold demonstrations of the product in key Familia store locations.

In addition, Libra 9 has signed an agreement with a prominent German actor, to promote the Magic Lappen in various malls throughout Germany as seen on our Instagram site. The promotion will be in conjunction with personnel from Libra 9, who will provide a demonstration of the product and its many uses. During the event, the celebrity will be available to sign boxes of the Magic Lappen for customers who make a purchase. The Magic Lappen will be for sale throughout all promotional events.

Libra 9 and Axel Reinke have been diligently focusing on bringing the Magic Lappen to the consumer market following their participation in the Dsseldorf Boat Show. To expand their reach, the company intends to employ sales representatives in various European countries to sell, promote and showcase the Magic Lappen. Additionally, they are exploring alternative avenues such as selling on the German version of Amazon and utilizing television infomercials.

The Magic Lappen is a product that provides maximum cleansing, shine, streak-free drying, and requires only water to clean without any chemicals or detergents. It is also chemical-free, lint-free, durable, and has a leather-like feel. The product's innovative structure allows for high absorption of dirt, dust, and grease, and it can be washed many times at 60. The Magic Lappen is also vegan, eco-friendly, and bio-degradable.

CBDD CEO, Axel Reinke, has uploaded a video presentation that details the product and its benefits, along with a live presentation. The company's website has been updated and is now available in English at www.the-magic-Lappen.com also adding a Q & A section. Axel is planning a Q&A with investors to update all our existing and new investors, the Date and time will be announced on the company website and future press releases.

CBDD is actively seeking new acquisition candidates and aims to acquire profitable assets at attractive valuations to create value for shareholders. The company's team is committed to sourcing high-margin, innovative products that align with its values. For more information and updates;

Follow CBDD on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Contact [email protected] for further details.

Information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or future financial performance, involving known and unknown risks and you should not place undue reliance on these statements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events. We assume no obligation publicly about update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156224
Cranbrook, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - DLP Resources Inc. (TSXV: DLP) (OTCQB: DLPRF)("DLP" or the "Company")is pleased to announce that drilling of the fourth diamond drill hole, on the Aurora porphyry copper-molybdenum project in Peru, has commenced.

Exploration Update

DD-Moby Dick-NZOU (Sullivan-type Zn-Pb-Ag Targets)

DLP has terminated the option agreement to earn up to 75% of PJX Resources Incs' (PJX) DD property as of February 24, 2023. DLP will now focus on the Sullivan-type Zn-Pb-Ag targets on the Moby Dick project and the NZOU project.

DLP and PJX each have a 50% interest in the Moby Dick property and DLP has an option to earn 100% of the NZOU property (see DLP news release dated August 20, 2020).

PJX also has the right to earn a 50% interest in the NZOU property.

Aurora Project (Porphyry Cu-Mo Target)

Aurora is a porphyry copper-molybdenum project in Southern Peru with the potential to host a significant copper-molybdenum mineralized system. (Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4). Drilling of three diamond drills was completed in 2022 and results have been released for A22-001, A22-002 and A22-003 (see DLP news releases dated December 05, 2022, and January 05, 2023). Significant copper and molybdenum mineralization was reported from the 2022 drilling with A22-003 reporting 664.30m at 0.33% Cu, 483.14ppm Mo and 3.23g/t Ag from 38m to 702.30m including 218m at 0.69% Cu, 161.77ppm Mo and 5.65ppm Ag from 132m to 350m (see DLP news release of January 05, 2023).

Continued drilling along extensions of known copper-molybdenum mineralization to the west will be done during the first half of 2023 (Figures 2, 3 and 4). Diamond drillhole A23-004 commenced on February 21 on an azimuth of 120 degrees and an inclination of -70 degrees. Planned depth for A23-004 is 700m.

Very encouraging quartz veining and visual copper and molybdenum mineralization was observed in and around the drill platform of A23-004 and we expect to be in mineralized rock within the upper 30m (Figure 5).





Figure 1: DLP Project areas with the Aurora and Esperanza properties shown.



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Figure 2. Historic drill holes, DLP-2022 drill holes and 2023 drill hole A23-004 on geology.



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Figure 3. Historic drill holes, DLP-2022 drill holes and 2023 drill hole A23-004 on chargeability - 50m depth plan.



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Figure 4. Historic drill holes, DLP-2022 drill holes and 2023 drill hole A23-004 on geology.

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Figure 5. Aurora Copper-Molybdenum Project - Porphyry outcrop on Drill Platform A23-004 with quartz veins with molybdenite and chalcopyrite-covellite in matrix.



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Hungry Creek and Copper Creek Projects (Sediment Hosted - Stratiform Copper-Silver-Cobalt Targets)

Drilling of five drill holes (1442m) on Hungry Creek and one drill hole on Copper Creek (386.16m) was completed at the end of August 2022 (Figures 6 and 7). Both the Hungry Creek and Copper Creek drilling, targeted sediment hosted - stratiform copper-silver-cobalt mineralization within the middle to Upper Creston Formation.





Figure 6. Location of Hungry Creek and Copper Creek Cu-Co Projects.



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Hungry Creek Drilling Summary

Target 711 was the focus of the 2022 drilling at Hungry Creek where encouraging copper mineralization was reported from seven grab and two float samples (see DLP press release dated November 30, 2021). Copper up to 1.15% and anomalous silver of up to 3.51ppm together with anomalous cobalt (up to 117.6ppm) and barium (up to 4,274 ppm) were also reported.

Visual copper mineralization in the form of chalcopyrite was observed in the 2022 drill holes on the 711 target (Figure 7). Intense sericite alteration in the upper Creston Formation quartzites together with carbonate alteration in the form of ankerite was associated with the mineralization.

Anomalous copper and cobalt were encountered in the 711 drilling with the best intervals being:

9.17m of 114.21ppm Cu and 48.91ppm Co in HC22-01.

12.73m of 384.36ppm Cu and 3.11ppm Co from 154.08m to 166.73in HC22-02.

7m of 211.93ppm Cu and 4.86ppm Co from 39m to 46m in HC22-06.

HC22-01

HC 22-01 commenced on July 24,2022 and was completed to 301.77m on July 28, 2022. Drilling commenced in argillites of the Dutch Creek Formation down to 12m and then intersected Middle Creston Formation quartzites and interbedded argillites down to 301.77m. Narrow gabbro sills were noted from 42.40 - 45.72m and from 50 - 57.29m. Alteration included moderate to intense silicification and sericitization throughout the Middle Creston Formation down to 228.6m with the last 73.17m having moderate to strong sericite and chlorite alteration. Mineralization included pyrite and chalcopyrite disseminated in the upper quartzite unit from 16 to 61.93m (see Figures 7, 8 and 9 and Table 1).

Sampling of zone with chalcopyrite from 16.9m to 61.93m returned the following best results: 42.23m to 61.93m (19.70m) of 69.48ppm Cu and 34.28ppm Co. 50.00 to 59.16m (9.16m) of 114,21m Cu and 48.91ppm Co.



HC22-02

HC22-02 commenced on July 29, 2022 in Middle Creston Formation argillites and ended on August 01, 2022, at 300.50m in Middle Creston Formation Quartzites. (Figures 8 and 9 and Table 1).

Sampling of the zone with chalcopyrite from 93.12m to 182.14m returned the following: Interval from 122.28m to 132.50m (9.7m) of 218.87ppm Cu and 3.03ppm Co. Interval from 154.08m to 166.73 (12.73m) of 384.36ppm Cu and 3.11ppm Co. Anomalous copper values were observed throughout the sampled interval with the highest value being 707ppm Cu from 162.97m to 163.59m.



HC22-06

HC22-06 commenced on August 14. 2022 in overburden of the Dutch Creek Formation and ended on August 16, 2022 at 300.50m in Middle Creston Formation Quartzites.

Sampling of zones with visually disseminated chalcopyrite from 39m to 167.20m was completed. Results returned a 7m interval from 39m to 46m with 211.93ppm Cu and 4.86ppm Co. Spotty values of anomalous copper was observed throughout the 64m interval with the highest value being 729ppm Cu from 62.50m to 63.00m.





Table 1: Summary of drill results for HC22-01, HC22-02 and HC22-06



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Table 2: Diamond drill location, depth, azimuth and inclination



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Figure 7. Hungry Creek Project - Summary of copper showings, 2022 reconnaissance rock samples and drilling on the 711 Target.



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Figure 8. Hungry Creek 711 Target area with drill holes shown.



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Figure 9. Hungry Creek - Legend for 711 Target area - Figure 8 above.



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Copper Creek Drilling Summary

Drilling of CC22-01 commenced on August 20 and was completed on August 27 at a depth of 386.16m. The hole was angled at -45 degrees on azimuth of 135 degrees and co-ordinates are: 5523171N and 574113E (Figure 7).

CC22-01, was drilled in upper to middle Creston Formation rocks to a depth of 386.16m. Fine grained pyrite and arsenopyrite was noted in the hole with sericite and silica alteration within the package of argillites, siltstones and quartzites of the middle to upper Creston Formation.

Sampled sections with pyrite and arsenopyrite mineralization reported weakly anomalous copper and cobalt with the best intervals being:

39.50m to 67.20m (27.7m) of 19.91ppm Cu and 7.66ppm Co.

137.1 to 139.10m (2m) of 72ppm Cu and 8.5ppm Co.

Further drilling of another three holes in the main core zone is permitted for 2023 (Figure 10).





Table 3. Summary of drill results for CC22-01



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Figure 10. Copper Creek Project - Historic grab rock sample results with 2022 drilling of CC22-01 shown in blue circle.



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Ian Gendall, CEO & President of DLP commented, "We are very excited with the start-up of the 2023 drilling on the Aurora porphyry copper-molybdenum project and we anticipate a continuous flow of drill results from April onwards. Both copper and molybdenum mineralization have been observed on the initial 2023 drill pad of A22-004 and it is expected mineralization will continue down to our planned depth of 700m as was observed in A22-003.

"In addition to the Peru drilling, we have encountered copper mineralized quartzites - Revett-type copper mineralization at the Hungry Creek and Copper Creek projects in southeastern BC. Further prospecting and additional sampling over the multiple copper targets extending over 12 to 20 km from the 711 target will now be completed in the summer of 2023. Drilling of 386.16m in CC22-01 on one anomalous copper target at Copper Creek was encouraging and we will now extend drilling to the core zone this summer."

QA/QC

All core samples (NQ diameter) were cut with a diamond saw. One-half of the core was placed in numbered and sealed bags and sent via secure transport to MSA Laboratory in Langley, BC for sample preparation and analyses. Core and rock samples were crushed down to 2 mm and a 250g split was pulverized to better than 85% passing 75m. Samples were subjected to a 4-acid digestion and analyzed for silver and an additional 33 elements using inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICP-ES). MSALabs is an ISO 9001 registered laboratory and has a quality control program in place which includes the insertion of standard, blank, and duplicate samples, as well as conducting repeat analyses.

DLP's QA/QC program includes the insertion of standards and blank material into the sample sequence with the normal core and rock samples to monitor sampling variances, laboratory precision and accuracy.

Qualified Person

David L. Pighin, consulting geologist and co-founder of DLP Resources, is the qualified person of the Company as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Pighin has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

About DLP Resources Inc.

DLP Resources Inc. is a mineral exploration company operating in Southeastern British Columbia and Peru, exploring for Base Metals and Cobalt. DLP is listed on the TSX-V, trading symbol DLP and on the OTCQB, trading symbol DLPRF. Please refer to our web site www.dlpresourcesinc.com for additional information.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

DLP RESOURCES INC.

Ian Gendall, CEO & President

Jim Stypula, Executive Chairman

Robin Sudo, Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary

Maxwell Reinhart, Investor Relations

Telephone: 250-426-7808

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forwardlooking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to drilling on the Aurora Project in Peru.

These forwardlooking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things drill results expected from the Aurora Project in Peru.

These forwardlooking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things drill results outlined regarding the Hungry Creek project.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that: the Company will obtain the required regulatory approvals for continued drilling on the Copper Creek project.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156200
Copper mineralization traced over 1.4 kilometres

Copper values up to 5.39%

Drill permit in place

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Mountain Boy Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: MTB) (OTCQB: MBYMF) (FSE: M9UA) ("Mountain Boy" or "MTB" or the "Company") reports results from field work on its Theia project. Follow-up to a copper occurrence identified in the 1990s outlined a 1.4 km trend, with assays to 5.39% copper. This area, known as the Bria Zone, is in the northeastern part of the property. Further work was also conducted around the Theia Silver Zone and a new copper occurrence was identified on the western part of the property.

The 9,028-hectare (90 square kilometre) Theia property is located in the Golden Triangle of British Columbia, 15 km north of the historic Dolly Varden silver mine. The area was first explored in the 1960s by a unit of Kennecott pursuing a molybdenum occurrence near the Bria Zone. Work in the 1990s focused on gold following the discovery of the nearby Red Mountain deposit. The first comprehensive exploration began after MTB's 2020 consolidation of the property.

Lawrence Roulston, President and CEO commented: "The widespread mineralization across the property appears to suggest several overlapping mineralizing systems. There is scope for copper-gold and also for silver-dominant mineralization. Further work will focus on identifying specific targets for drill testing, with drill permits already in place."

Bria Zone

Mineralization around the Bria Zone is spatially related to an intrusion which is contemporaneous with a Middle Jurassic age unconformity between the Lower and Upper Hazelton volcanic rocks. That time period is metalogenically significant within the Golden Triangle; the Eskay Creek deposit occurs at this meaningful contact.

Three Minfile occurrences in the Bria Zone relate to the work from the 1960s through the 1990s. Mineralization is hosted in veins, which pinch and swell over considerable strike and downdip directions and can reach several metres in width. A 1995 grab sample (KK-51) assayed 0.62 gram per tonne gold, 2.65 per cent copper and 522 grams per tonne silver (Assessment Report 23938).

In the 2022 field season, 36 surface rock grab samples were taken from the Bria area. Those samples define a 1.4 kilometre copper mineralized trend within the Lower Jurassic Hazelton volcanic rocks. Several samples yielded elevated silver and copper assays, including one of 5.39% copper. Table 1 is a list of select surface samples from this target area and Figure 1 is a plan map of the zone.

Table 1: Select surface grab samples from the Bria target area

SampleID Target SampType Au (ppb) Ag (ppm) Cu (%) E078006 RED 69 extension host grab 504 373.0 2.86 B988054 RED 69 select grab 244 166.0 1.93 E078004 RED 69 float 490 151.0 0.47 B988058 RED 69 host grab 6 104.0 1.36 E078003 RED 69 grab 7 45.5 0.03 B987579 BRIA 3 grab 56 37.8 5.39 B987569 RED 69 select grab 82 11.2 0.03

This zone remains open in all directions.

Figure 1: Red 69 Extension

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Theia Silver Zone

Follow up on the western part of the Theia Silver Zone extended the mineralization to the northwest. Sample E075281 and E075282 yielded 0.1% copper, 0.8% lead and 0.1% zinc and 1.1% lead and 1.8% zinc, respectively.

This area appears to have a pervasive base metal mineralization event and a high grade silver controlling feature. To the west, the system appears to be more zinc dominant. High grade silver values, up to 39 kilograms per tonne (News Release, March 8, 2021) occur on the eastern portion of the zone. Figure 2 shows surface grab samples from the eastern, silver dominant area. Further work will focus on this area.

Figure 2: Theia Silver Zone

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New Target Area

Initial mapping and prospecting by MTB geologists on the northwestern part of the claims returned a sample that assayed 5.2% copper. The area has no recorded historic work and will see further exploration in the coming season.

Location and Adjacent Properties

The Theia project shares the southern claim boundary with Hecla's Kinskuch property, which according to Hecla's website (https://www.hecla-mining.com/kinskuch/) hosts potential for the discovery of epithermal silver-gold, gold-rich porphyry and volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposits. Teuton Resources and Silver Grail's Konkin Silver property shares the northern claim boundary, where "Several silver bearing structures have been discovered within an exhalative horizon" (http://teuton.com/properties/konkin-silver-property).

There are logging roads within 10 km of the eastern boundary of the claims and the proposed Homestake Ridge Road is 12 km to the west.

Lucia Theny, Vice-President Exploration, commented: "With the focus last season on our Telegraph copper-gold project, Theia saw limited activity. That work generated significant results in three areas, extending the Bria and Silver zones as well as finding a new copper target. The property covers an extensive and well-mineralized geological system that has seen only limited exploration to date."

About Mountain Boy Minerals

Mountain Boy has six active projects spanning 670 square kilometres (67,587 hectares) in the prolific Golden Triangle of northern British Columbia. With the focus on the Telegraph project, discussions are now underway with entities leading to joint ventures and/or spinouts of other projects.

The American Creek project is centered on the historic Mountain Boy silver mine and is just north of the past producing Red Cliff gold and copper mine (in which the Company holds an interest). The American Creek project is road accessible and 20 km from the deep-water port of Stewart. On the BA property, 182 drill holes have outlined a substantial zone of silver-lead-zinc mineralization located 4 km from the highway. Surprise Creek is interpreted to be hosted by the same prospective stratigraphy as the BA property and hosts multiple occurrences of silver, gold, and base metals. On the Theia project, work by Mountain Boy and previous explorers has outlined a silver bearing mineralized trend 500 metres long, highlighted by a 2020 grab sample that returned 39 kg per tonne silver (1,100 ounces per ton). Southmore is in the midst of some of the largest deposits in the Golden Triangle. It was explored in the 1980s through the early 1990s and was overlooked until Mountain Boy consolidated the property and confirmed the presence of gold and copper, with values up to 20% copper and 35 g/t gold. Recent field program on the Telegraph project has provided compelling evidence for the presence of a cluster of porphyrys. The 310 square kilometre Telegraph Project is located in the vicinity of several large Porphyries deposits including Galore Creek (Teck - Newmont), Schaft Creek (Teck - Copper Fox), Big Red (Libero Copper and Gold), Saddle and Saddle North (Newmont) and the operating Red Chris copper-gold mine (Newcrest - Imperial Metals).

The technical disclosure in this release has been read and approved by Andrew Wilkins, B.Sc., P.Geo., a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101.

On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Lawrence Roulston

President & CEO

For further information, contact:

Caroline Klukowski

[email protected]

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This news release may contain certain "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156231
Rimouski, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Puma Exploration Inc. (TSXV: PUMA) (OTCQB: PUMXF) (the "Company" or "Puma") invites shareholders and interested parties to visit Booth #IE2152 at the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada's (PDAC) Convention at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) from Sunday, March 5 to Wednesday, March 8, 2023. Management and Puma's technical team will be on hand to discuss the Company's latest news and planned developments for 2023.

In addition, we invite you to attend the following presentations:

Marcel Robillard, President and CEO will present on March 7 at 10:14 am at the Corporate Presentation Forum for Investors, in Room 801A.

Mia Boiridy, Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Development will present at the Atlantic Edge Mining Investment Event, Ballroom A, Intercontinental Hotel on March 7 at 10:20 am. Attendance to this session does not require a PDAC registration. To attend click here Canada's Atlantic Edge Mining Investment Event (PDAC) Toronto 2023 Tickets, Tue, 7 Mar 2023 at 8:30 AM | Eventbrite.

Puma is also participating in the Precious metals Summit PDAC meeting program on March 7-8, 2023. If you'd like to schedule a 1 on 1 meeting, please visit www.precioussummit.com/event/pdac-2023-one-on-one-meeting-program/.

We look forward to seeing you there.

About PDAC

PDAC 2023: The World's Premier Mineral Exploration & Mining Convention is the leading event for people, companies, and organizations connected to mineral exploration.

This annual convention in Toronto, Canada is known for attracting up to 30,000 attendees from over 130+ countries for its educational programming, networking events, outstanding business opportunities, and fun. Since it began in 1932, the PDAC Convention has grown in size, stature, and influence. Today, it is the event of choice for the world's mineral industry hosting more than 1,100 exhibitors and 2,500 investors.

For more information and/or to register for the conference please visit: https://www.pdac.ca/convention/attend/registration.

About Puma Exploration

Puma Exploration is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company with precious metals projects near New Brunswick, Canada's Famous Bathurst Mining Camp ("BMC"). The Company is committed to deploying its DEAR strategy (Development, Exploration, Acquisition, and Royalties) to generate maximum value for shareholders with low share dilution.

Puma's flagship Williams Brook Gold Project covers more than 50,000 ha in Northern New Brunswick, an established and mining-friendly jurisdiction, near paved roads and with excellent infrastructure nearby. Since 2021, Puma has made four (4) significant gold discoveries at Williams Brook, with high-grade gold mineralization hosted in quartz veins at surface. An aggressive exploration program is planned for 2023, including a minimum of 6,000 m of drilling and a 4,000 T bulk sample.

Connect with us on Facebook / Twitter / LinkedIn

Visit www.explorationpuma.com for more information or contact:

Marcel Robillard, President and CEO, (418) 750-8510;

[email protected]

Mia Boiridy, Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Development, (250) 575-3305;

[email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/155959
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Taurus Gold Corp. (CSE: TAUR) (OTCQB: TARGF) ("Taurus" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that commencing market open on February 27, 2023, its common shares will be listed for trading on the OTCQB Venture Market ("OTCQB") under the trading symbol TARGF.

Taurus's CEO, Mr. Trevor Harding, comments, "This is an exciting and important opportunity for Taurus, this platform will enable to Company to expand existing and prospective U.S. shareholders. The OTCQB listing is an important milestone for Taurus and allows for greater exposure and accessibility to the Company."

The OTCQB is a leading market for early-stage and developing U.S. and international companies. To be eligible, companies must be current in their reporting and undergo an annual verification and management certification process. Investors can find information and trading statistics on Taurus at OTC Markets.

OTCQB trading offers companies the advantages of being publicly traded in the U.S. with lower cost and complexity than a U.S. exchange listing. Investors can benefit from efficient trading through their preferred broker or financial advisor, transparent pricing with real-time quotes, and trusted disclosure that is made broadly available to broker-dealers and market data providers.

In addition, the Company is pleased to announce that its common shares are now eligible for electronic clearing and settlement in the United States through the Depository Trust Company ("DTC"). DTC is a subsidiary of the Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation, a U.S. company that manages the electronic clearing and settlement of publicly traded companies. Securities that are eligible to be electronically cleared and settled through DTC are considered to be "DTC eligible". This electronic method of clearing securities speeds up the receipt of stock and cash, and therefore accelerates the settlement process for investors and brokers, enabling the stock to be traded over a much wider selection of brokerage firms by coming into compliance with their requirements.

The Company's common shares will continue to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol TAUR.

About the Company

Taurus Gold Corp. is a Canadian-based junior mineral exploration company focused on precious metals exploration in the Dawson Range Gold Belt which stretches from the Yukon-Alaska border. The Company currently operates the Charlotte property project. The region is characterized by gold veins and breccia, as well as copper-gold porphyry mineralization. Taurus Gold Corp. has an option to earn 100% interest in the Charlotte property.

For further information, please see www.taurusgold.ca or contact [email protected].

Contact Information

Trevor Harding

President and Chief Executive Officer

Taurus Gold Corp.

Phone: 587-608-5035

#239 9768-170th Street, Edmonton, AB T5T 5L4

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://taurusgold.ca/

Forward-Looking Information:

This news release contains "forward-looking information" or "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein are forward-looking, other than statements of historical fact. Generally, the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "is expected", or "will continue", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of Taurus Gold to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. Although Taurus Gold has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information or statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and Taurus Gold disclaims, except as required by applicable securities laws, any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156337
England and Wales have increased the legal age to marry to 18, to protect children from forced marriage (Getty)

England and Wales have formally changed the legal age for marriages and civil partnerships to 18, meaning 16- and 17-year-olds will no longer be able to wed going forward.

The change came into effect on Monday, February 27, and has been hailed as a huge victory against those who exploit vulnerable children by marrying them off at a young age.

Justice Secretary Dominic Raab said perpetrators who go against the legal age will face the full force of the law, with someone found guilty of arranging child marriages potentially getting a sentence of up to seven years in prison.

He explained: This law will better protect vulnerable young people, by cracking down on forced marriage in our society. Those who act to manipulate children into marrying under-age will now rightly face the full force of the law.

According to Unicef, 21 per cent of young women, which equates to 12 million individuals, are married before their 18th birthday globally.

So, what are the minimum legal marriage ages around the world? Heres everything we know.

What are the minimum marriage ages around the world?

More often than not, countries have two minimum marriage ages; one age for marriage with parental consent and another for without.

Before the new law in the UK, you could marry or enter into a civil partnership at the age of 16 if you had parental consent.

Countries with marriage age limits younger than 16

For instance, in Iran, the minimum age for marriage with parental consent is 13 for girls and 15 for boys. However, for marriage without parental consent, reports say that individuals have to be 15 if they are female and 18 if they are male.

Similarly, in Equatorial Guinea and Sao Tome and Principe, children can marry at the age of 14 with their parents consent but have to wait until they are 18 otherwise.

There are a considerably high number of countries that allow children to marry at the age of 15 and 16 as long as their legal guardians sign off on it. However, the majority of nations across the globe have 18 as their minimum barrier for marriage without parental consent.

Story continues

Countries with marriage age limits older than 18

There are also a handful of countries that have set their minimum legal marriage age higher than 18. Below are the countries that require individuals to be 21 years old before they can get legally married.

Botswana

Burundi

Cameroon

Chad

Eswatini

Gabon

Guinea

Ivory Coast

Lesotho

Namibia

Niger

Rwanda

Zambia

Burkina Faso and Libya require the bride and groom to be 20 years old, while Algeria has set the minimum age at 19.

Sudan used to have a unique policy when it came to the legal marriage age. Muslim children were allowed to be legally married as soon as they hit puberty. Non-Muslim children, however, could only marry after they hit 13 if they were a girl, or 15 if they were a boy. The Sudanese government changed the legal age for marriage to 18 in late 2020, outlawing child marriage.
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dar Al Arkan today announced the admission of Dar Global PLC, its independent international development subsidiary, to the Standard Segment of the Official List of the FCA and to the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange. The official direct listing on the London Stock Exchange makes Dar Al Arkan one of the first Saudi homegrown brands to list on the London stock exchange.

Building on the legacy of Dar Al Arkan, the largest real estate company in Saudi Arabia and the region, Dar Global has embarked on a journey to establish a highly differentiated international real estate business focusing on developing projects comprising luxury second and vacation homes for its global clientele, in some of the most quintessential, handpicked locations across the Middle East and Europe, including downtown Dubai, Qatar, Oman, London and the Costa del Sol region in Southern Spain.

While building a robust portfolio, the company collaborates with global luxury brands, including Missoni, W Hotels, Versace, Elie Saab, Automobili Pagani, and Automobili Lamborghini.

Along with an extensive pipeline, Dar Global currently has eleven premium projects in six different countries, with three of its developments, Urban Oasis, the Da Vinci Tower in Dubai, and Sidra in Bosnia, set to be completed in Q4 2023.

Yousef Al Shelash, Chairman, Dar Al Arkan, commented on the milestone: "This is an extremely proud moment for us. After pioneering a distinct approach to development in the Kingdom's real estate sector, we believe it is time further to diversify the group's offerings across international communities with Dar Global. London is the ideal venue as Dar Global looks to access a larger pool of investors and partners to support its expansion ambitions in the global luxury real estate landscape. We thank the Ministry of Investment in Saudi Arabia for facilitating and supporting our global expansion and assisting us in spreading the brand of Saudi Arabia globally."

Dar Global was established in 2017 and will be steered by a highly experienced international executive team led by industry stalwarts like Ziad El Chaar as the Chief Executive Officer and David Hunter as the Independent Non-Executive Chair of the board of directors. Liberum Capital Limited acted as Capital Markets Adviser on the listing and Norton Rose Fulbright LLP acted as legal adviser on the listing.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2009491/Dal_Al_Arkan_DaVinci_Tower.jpg

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SOURCE Dar Al Arkan
Company to host conference call and webcast today at 8:30 a.m. EST

CARMIEL, Israel, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc. (NYSE American: PLX) (TASE: PLX), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development, production and commercialization of recombinant therapeutic proteins produced by its proprietary ProCellEx plant cell-based protein expression system, today reported financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and provided a business update on recent corporate and regulatory developments.

"We are proud to have had a productive 2022 and start to 2023, culminating in the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) positive opinion recommending marketing authorization for PRX102 for adult patients with Fabry disease," said Dror Bashan, Protalix's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We completed the pivotal parts of our PRX102 phase III clinical program this year with the closeout of the BRIGHT and BALANCE trials, forming the basis for regulatory submissions to the EMA and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), both of which were accepted for review. Patients from the various trials remain under treatment with PRX102 in two different open-label extension studies; 1 mg/kg every two weeks or 2 mg/kg every four weeks."

"As we move into 2023, we anticipate a significant year for the company, with potential regulatory approvals in both Europe and the United States anticipated in May 2023, as well as continued advancement of our early-stage pipeline. We are grateful for the dedication of our team and global partners who are critical in enabling us to work towards our mission of delivering new medicines to patients with high unmet needs."

2022 Full Year and Recent Business Highlights

Regulatory Advancements

On February 24, 2023, the Company, together with its development and commercialization partner for PRX102, Chiesi Global Rare Diseases (Chiesi), announced that the EMA's CHMP has adopted a positive opinion, recommending marketing authorization for PRX102 (pegunigalsidase alfa) for adult patients with Fabry disease. The positive opinion was based on a marketing authorization application (MAA) submitted to the EMA on February 7, 2022. The MAA included final data from the Company's phase III BRIDGE and BRIGHT clinical trials; 12month interim data from the Company's phase III BALANCE clinical trial; and final data from the Company's phase I/II clinical trial from naive/untreated patients, including the related extension study, using 1 mg/kg every two weeks dosing. Data from the 24-month final analysis of the phase III BALANCE clinical trial was submitted to the EMA during the review period. The CHMP opinion is now referred for final action to the European Commission (EC). A final EC decision on the MAA is anticipated in the beginning of May 2023.

On December 5, 2022, the Company, together with Chiesi, announced the acceptance by the FDA of a resubmitted biologics license application (BLA) for PRX102 for the treatment of adult patients with Fabry disease. The FDA indicated in the BLA filing communication letter that the resubmitted BLA was considered a complete, class 2 response and set an action date of May 9, 2023, under the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA). The BLA was resubmitted on November 9, 2022 and included a comprehensive set of clinical and manufacturing data compiled from all three of the Company's completed studies in its PRX102 phase III clinical program, the BALANCE, BRIDGE and BRIGHT studies, as well as from the Company's phase I/II clinical trial of PRX102. The resubmission also included safety data from the ongoing phase III extension studies. If approved, the Company will be eligible to receive a milestone payment from Chiesi.

Clinical Advancements

On August 15, 2022, the Company, together with Chiesi, announced positive final results from the BALANCE study, a phase III, 24-month, randomized, double-blind, active control study designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 1 mg/kg of PRX102 administered every two weeks compared to agalsidase beta in patients previously treated with agalsidase beta for at least one year. The study met its primary endpoint and demonstrated that PRX102 was statistically non-inferior to agalsidase beta, as measured by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope. In addition, results showed a favorable tolerability profile for PRX102, consistent with results from the Company's prior trials.

On March 18, 2022, the Company, together with Chiesi, announced positive final results from the BRIGHT study, a phase III, multicenter, multinational open-label, switch-over study designed to evaluate the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of treatment with 2 mg/kg of PRX102 administered every four weeks for 52 weeks (a total of 14 infusions) in adult patients previously treated with a commercially available enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) (agalsidase alfa or agalsidase beta). Results of the BRIGHT study indicate that PRX102 was well tolerated, and Fabry disease assessed by eGFR slope and plasma lyso-Gb3 was stable throughout PRX102 treatment in adult Fabry patients.

Corporate Developments

On December 21, 2022, the Company announced the voluntarily delisting of its common stock from the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE). The delisting will take effect on March 22, 2023, and the last trading date on the TASE is March 20, 2023.

On December 5, 2022, the Company hosted a key opinion leader (KOL) webinar featuring Myrl D. Holida, PA C, University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, who discussed the robust PRX102 clinical program.

On June 30, 2022, the Company announced the appointment of Shmuel "Muli" Ben Zvi, Ph.D. to the Board of Directors. Dr. Ben Zvi is serving as the new Chairman of the Audit Committee and as a member of the Compensation Committee.

Financial Results

For the year ended December 31, 2022, compared to the year ended December 31, 2021

The Company recorded revenues from selling goods of $25.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, an increase of $8.6 million, or 51%, compared to revenues of $16.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase resulted from an increase of $2.2 million in sales to Pfizer Inc., an increase of $3.1 million in sales to Brazil and an increase of $3.3 million in sales to Chiesi.

Revenue from licenses and R&D services for the year ended December 31, 2022 were $22.3 million, an increase of $0.7 million, or 3%, compared to revenues of $21.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. Revenues from license and R&D services represent mainly the revenues the Company recognized in connection with its license and supply agreements with Chiesi.

Cost of goods sold for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $19.6 million, an increase of $3.3 million, or 20%, compared to cost of goods sold of $16.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase in cost of goods sold was primarily the result of the increase in sales of goods.

Total research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 were approximately $29.3 million, comprised of approximately $17.8 million in subcontractor-related expenses, approximately $7.3 million of salary and related expenses, approximately $1.4 million of materials-related expenses and approximately $2.8 million of other expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company's total research and development expenses were approximately $29.7 million comprised of approximately $18.4 million in subcontractor-related expenses, approximately $7.4 million of salary and related expenses, approximately $1.2 million of materials-related expenses and approximately $2.7 million of other expenses. The decrease in research and developments expenses of $0.4 million, or 1%, for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021 resulted primarily from a $0.6 million decrease in subcontractor-related expenses in connection with the Company's PRX102 clinical trials, partially offset by a $0.2 million increase in materials-related expenses.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $11.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, a decrease of $1.0 million, or 8%, from $12.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The decrease resulted primarily from a decrease in professional fees and salary related expenses.

Financial expense, net was $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, a decrease of $5.7 million, or 80%, compared to financial expenses of $7.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The decrease resulted primarily from lower interest and debt amortization costs due to a decrease in the Company's outstanding notes from an aggregate principal amount of $57.92 million of convertible notes due in 2021 to an aggregate principal amount of $28.75 million of convertible notes due in 2024, and an increase in the exchange rate of New Israeli Shekels for U.S. Dollars over the period.

For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded income taxes of approximately $530,000. The Company did not record income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2021. The income taxes were recorded for 2022 as certain sections regarding the deductibility of research and development expenses of the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 went into effect on January 1, 2022.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term bank deposits were approximately $22.2 million at December 31, 2022.

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2022 was approximately $14.9 million, or $0.31 per share, basic and diluted, compared to a net loss of $27.6 million, or $0.62 per share, basic and diluted, for the year ended December 31, 2021.

Conference Call and Webcast Information

The Company will host a conference call today, February 27, 2023 at 8:30 am EST, to review the financial results and provide an update on recent corporate and regulatory developments, which will also be available by webcast. To participate in the conference call, please dial the following numbers or access the following websites prior to the start of the call:

Conference Call Details:

Date: Monday, February 27, 2023Time: 8:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)Toll Free (U.S.): 1-877-423-9813International: 1-201-689-8573Conference ID: 13736250

Webcast Details:

The conference will be webcast live from the Company's website and will be available via the following links:

Company Link: https://protalixbiotherapeutics.gcs-web.com/events0Webcast Link: Registration  https://tinyurl.com/5n6rtnhw Conference ID: 13736250

Please access the websites at least 15 minutes ahead of the conference to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

The conference call will be available for replay for two weeks on the Events Calendar of the Investors section of the Company's website, at the above link.

About Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc.

Protalix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of recombinant therapeutic proteins expressed through its proprietary plant cell-based expression system, ProCellEx. Protalix was the first company to gain U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of a protein produced through plant cell-based in suspension expression system. Protalix's unique expression system represents a new method for developing recombinant proteins in an industrial-scale manner.

Protalix's first product manufactured by ProCellEx, taliglucerase alfa, was approved by the FDA in May 2012 and, subsequently, by the regulatory authorities of other countries. Protalix has licensed to Pfizer Inc. the worldwide development and commercialization rights for taliglucerase alfa, excluding Brazil, where Protalix retains full rights.

Protalix's development pipeline consists of proprietary versions of recombinant therapeutic proteins that target established pharmaceutical markets, including the following product candidates: pegunigalsidase alfa, a modified stabilized version of the recombinant human GalactosidaseA protein for the treatment of Fabry disease; PRX115, a plant cell-expressed recombinant PEGylated uricase for the treatment of severe gout; PRX119, a plant cell-expressed long action DNase I for the treatment of NETsrelated diseases; and others. Protalix has partnered with Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A., both in the United States and outside the United States, for the development and commercialization of pegunigalsidase alfa.

Forward-Looking Statements

To the extent that statements in this press release are not strictly historical, all such statements are forward-looking, and are made pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The terms "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "project," "may," "plan," "will," "would," "should" and "intend," and other words or phrases of similar import are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future experience and results to differ materially from the statements made. These statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations as to such future outcomes. Drug discovery and development involve a high degree of risk and the final results of a clinical trial may be different than the preliminary findings for the clinical trial. Factors that might cause material differences include, among others: risks related to the timing, progress and likelihood of final approval by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) of the Marketing Authorization Application; the risk that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) might not grant marketing approval for PRX102 by the PDUFA date or at all, and other risks related to the timing, progress and likelihood of final approval by the FDA of the PRX102 Biologics License Application (BLA); the risk that a marketing approval of PRX102 by either the FDA or the EMA will be conditioned on significant limitations on its use; risks related to the commercial success of PRX102, and of our other product and product candidates, if approved; the likelihood that the FDA, EMA or other applicable health regulatory authorities will approve an alternative dosing regimen; failure or delay in the commencement or completion of our preclinical studies and clinical trials, which may be caused by several factors, including: slower than expected rates of patient recruitment; unforeseen safety issues; determination of dosing issues; lack of effectiveness during clinical trials; inability to satisfactorily demonstrate non-inferiority to approved therapies; inability or unwillingness of medical investigators and institutional review boards to follow our clinical protocols; and inability to monitor patients adequately during or after treatment; delays in the approval or potential rejection of any applications we file with the FDA, EMA or other health regulatory authorities for our other product candidates, and other risks relating to the review process; risks associated with the novel coronavirus disease, or COVID19, outbreak and variants, which may adversely impact our business, preclinical studies and clinical trials; risks related to any transactions we may effect in the public or private equity markets to raise capital to finance future research and development activities, general and administrative expenses and working capital; the risk that the results of the clinical trials of our product candidates will not support the applicable claims of safety or efficacy, or that our product candidates will not have the desired effects or will be associated with undesirable side effects or other unexpected characteristics; risks related to our ability to maintain and manage our relationship with our collaborators, distributors or partners; risks related to the amount and sufficiency of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term deposits; risks relating to our ability to make scheduled payments of the principal of, to pay interest on or to refinance our outstanding notes or any other indebtedness; our dependence on performance by third party providers of services and supplies, including without limitation, clinical trial services; delays in our preparation and filing of applications for regulatory approval; the inherent risks and uncertainties in developing drug platforms and products of the type we are developing; the impact of development of competing therapies and/or technologies by other companies and institutions; potential product liability risks, and risks of securing adequate levels of product liability and other necessary insurance coverage; and other factors described in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The statements in this press release are valid only as of the date hereof and we disclaim any obligation to update this information, except as may be required by law.

Investor ContactChuck Padala, Managing DirectorLifeSci Advisors646-627-8390[email protected]

PROTALIX BIOTHERAPEUTICS, INC.CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS(U.S. dollars in thousands) December 31, 2021 2022 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS: Cash and cash equivalents $ 38,985 $ 17,111 Short-term bank deposits - 5,069 Accounts receivable  Trade 3,442 4,586 Other assets 1,285 1,310 Inventories 17,954 16,804 Total current assets $ 61,666 $ 44,880 NON-CURRENT ASSETS: Funds in respect of employee rights upon retirement $ 2,077 $ 1,267 Property and equipment, net 4,962 4,553 Operating lease right of use assets 4,960 5,087 Total assets $ 73,665 $ 55,787 LIABILITIES NET OF CAPITAL DEFICIENCY CURRENT LIABILITIES: Accounts payable and accruals: Trade $ 6,986 $ 5,862 Other 16,433 12,271 Operating lease liabilities 1,207 1,118 Contracts liability 8,550 13,178 Total current liabilities $ 33,176 $ 32,429 LONG TERM LIABILITIES: Convertible notes $ 27,887 $ 28,187 Contracts liability 11,790 - Liability for employee rights upon retirement 2,472 1,642 Operating lease liabilities 4,376 4,169 Total long term liabilities $ 46,525 $ 33,998 Total liabilities $ 79,701 $ 66,427 COMMITMENTS CAPITAL DEFICIENCY Common Stock, $0.001 par value: Authorized - as of December 31, 2021 and 2022, 120,000,000 and 144,000,000 shares, respectively; issued and outstanding - as of December 31, 2021 and 2022, 45,556,647 and 53,790,167 shares, respectively 46 54 Additional paid-in capital 368,852 379,167 Accumulated deficit (374,934) (389,861) Total capital deficiency (6,036) (10,640) Total liabilities net of capital deficiency $ 73,665 $ 55,787

PROTALIX BIOTHERAPEUTICS, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share amounts) Year Ended December 31, 2020 2021 2022 REVENUES FROM SELLING GOODS $ 16,236 $ 16,749 $ 25,292 REVENUES FROM LICENSE AND R&D SERVICES 46,662 21,601 22,346 TOTAL REVENUE 62,898 38,350 47,638 COST OF GOODS SOLD (10,873) (16,349) (19,592) RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT EXPENSES (38,167) (29,734) (29,349) SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES (11,148) (12,729) (11,711) OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) 2,710 (20,462) (13,014) FINANCIAL EXPENSES (9,671) (7,521) (2,529) FINANCIAL INCOME 438 401 1,146 FINANCIAL EXPENSES, NET (9,233) (7,120) (1,383) LOSS BEFORE TAXES ON INCOME (6,523) (27,582) (14,397) TAXES ON INCOME (530) NET LOSS FOR THE YEAR $ (6,523) $ (27,582) $ (14,927) LOSS PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK  BASIC AND DILUTED $ (0.22) $ (0.62) $ (0.31) WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES OF COMMON STOCK USED IN COMPUTING LOSS PER SHARE  BASIC AND DILUTED 29,148,047 44,140,233 48,472,159

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SOURCE Protalix BioTherapeutics, Inc.
BEIJING, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from China Daily

The China International Import Expo, a key platform of China supporting its high-level opening-up efforts, is expected to continue to create huge business opportunities for participating foreign enterprises, big and small, experts and government officials told a seminar on Friday.

The annual expo's sixth edition, which will be held offline in Shanghai in November, will help them tap China's supersized market, besides injecting more positive energy into the global economic recovery that has been facing gloomy prospects, they said.

Sun Shangwu, deputy editor-in-chief of China Daily, said the CIIE has quickly evolved over the last five years into a window showcasing China's efforts in promoting its new dual-circulation development pattern.

Now, the CIIE, he said, is a platform to boost high-level opening-up and a global public good for the world to share. The annual expo plays an important role in global economic development.

The dual-circulation development pattern focuses on the domestic economy while stressing a positive interplay between domestic and international economic flows.

Chen Chunjiang, assistant minister of commerce, said, "The expo is a major decision made by China's top leadership to promote a new round of high-level opening-up, and a key move of China to actively open its market wider to the rest of the world."

Chen also said the CIIE will be held fully offline this November as scheduled.

Their remarks headlined a seminar in Beijing on the global promotion of the CIIE. The event was jointly initiated by the CIIE Bureau and the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), and organized by China Daily.

According to the CIIE Bureau, the expo's organizer, as of Wednesday, more than 500 companies had signed up for the sixth edition, and over 200,000 square meters of exhibition area had been booked.

Supported by big data, the expo this year will provide matchmaking between buyers and sellers as accurately as possible, and strive to invite more buyers targeted by exhibitors this year in various ways, the bureau said.

Sun said: "With growing influence and increasingly positive global feedback, the CIIE is a testimony to China's deepening opening-up.

"In the past five years, participating companies, from industry leaders listed in the Fortune Global 500 to small firms from underdeveloped countries, have all benefited greatly from the CIIE. Their stories with the CIIE are vivid examples of China pushing economic globalization toward being more open, inclusive, balanced and beneficial to all."

Business executives of multinational companies also spoke highly of the CIIE.

Zhang Xiqiang, chairman and CEO of Nestle SA Greater China, said the CIIE not only brings together a vast array of global products and services but also serves as an ideal platform for in-depth dialogues and cooperation.

"The CIIE is not only bringing the best of innovation from the world to China, but also showcasing the best of innovation of the country to the world," said Fabrice Megarbane, L'Oreal North Asia Zone president and CEO of L'Oreal China.

Lan Zhenzhen, chief corporate affairs and engagement officer of L'Oreal North Asia and China, said the CIIE, as the world's first import-themed national-level expo, is expected to further help MNCs to capitalize on the huge potential of China's supersized market.

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SOURCE China Daily
Statement of Matthew L. Myers, President, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Supreme Court announced today that it will not hear R.J. Reynolds' appeal of a lower court ruling upholding Los Angeles County's law prohibiting the sale of flavored tobacco products. This decision is a tremendous victory for kids and public health. It allows Los Angeles County's law to remain in effect, while also preserving the authority of states and localities across the country to enact similar lifesaving measures. R.J. Reynolds and other tobacco companies have desperately fought these laws so they can continue to target kids, Black Americans and other communities with flavored products, including flavored e-cigarettes, menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars.

This decision is a rejection of Reynolds' argument that the Los Angeles County law and similar state and local laws are preempted by the federal Tobacco Control Act. In fact, the Tobacco Control Act includes explicit language preserving the authority of states and localities to regulate the sale of tobacco products within their borders. For this reason, no court has struck down a state or local restriction on the sale of flavored tobacco products as preempted by the Tobacco Control Act. These courts include the First, Second and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeal. There is simply no legal basis to deprive Los Angeles County, or any other locality or state, of the ability to protect their citizens against the flavored tobacco products that lure kids into a lifetime of nicotine addiction.

Today's announcement follows the Supreme Court's decision in December to deny Reynolds' request for an emergency injunction to block California's statewide law ending the sale of most flavored tobacco products.

Reynolds' battle against these laws shows once again that the tobacco companies haven't changed and are lying when they claim to care about anything other than their bottom line. R.J. Reynolds and other companies will stop at nothing in order to continue targeting children and vulnerable communities with flavored tobacco products. Policy makers at every level must stand up to the tobacco industry's bullying and take action to protect kids and save lives.

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SOURCE Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
WASHINGTON  Fort Worth-based Bell is laying the foundation for new facilities in Grand Prairie after its new tilt-rotor V-280 Valor won a competition for the U.S. Armys next long-range assault aircraft.

Those preparations come despite an ongoing review of the selection process by a key congressional watchdog agency and calls by some on Capitol Hill to further scrutinize the rationale behind Bells selection.

At stake is the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft, or FLRAA, program that the Army initiated in 2019 as a successor to its iconic UH-60 Black Hawk. The Army announced in December it was awarding the initial contract to Bell for its V-280 Valor.

Bell registered plans with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation earlier this month to build a new $20 million, 37,775-square-foot building in Grand Prairie. The project name is FLRAA DSTL  the second part stands for Drive Systems Test Lab.

The filing indicates a start date of June 1 and a completion date of March 30, 2024.

Bell officials declined to provide further details on the prospective facility as the company awaits review of the selection process by the Government Accountability Office.

Sikorsky, which is owned by Lockheed Martin, triggered that review when it filed a challenge in late December. The GAO has 100 days to review the challenge, which means it should issue its decision by April 7.

That decision is not binding, but its rare for an agency not to follow one of GAOs bid protest recommendations.

Scott Donnelly, CEO of Bells parent company Textron, expressed confidence last month during a quarterly earnings call, saying an enormous amount of work went into the project and the Army made the right choice.

Its been an unbelievably robust process, Donnelly said. Its hard for me to understand what flaw would have been in the process.

Asked directly by one analyst what viable argument might be made against Bells selection, Donnelly responded concisely: I dont think there would be one.

The short-term value of the contract is up to $1.3 billion, but the Army has indicated the total value could reach well into the tens of billions over the life of the program.

On the earnings call, Donnelly declined to give too many specifics about what the company expects to make off the program in future years, but said it would be a terrific boon for business.

Well expect to see it continue to grow and turn into better margins as you get into production programs and foreign military sales and all the things that we would expect will come along with a successful FLRAA program, Donnelly said.

The Black Hawk has been the backbone of Army aviation for decades but the service wanted a new aircraft that would fly twice as fast and twice as far, particularly as it looks to stay relevant in the increasingly important Pacific theater.

Bell has touted the capabilities of its V-280 Valor prototype that features a tilt-rotor design combining the vertical takeoff and hovering ability of a helicopter with the speed and range of an airplane.

That approach beat out a competing Sikorsky and Boeing team that offered the Army a compound rotor aircraft called the Defiant X.

The Army says it followed a deliberate and disciplined process in evaluating proposals to ensure rigorous review and equitable treatment of both competitors.

But after speaking with Army officials, the losing team disagreed and filed its protest.

According to Forbes, that challenge includes claims the Army made up its mind from the beginning to go with the tilt-rotor design, that it used criteria not included in the initial solicitation of bids and that the armys best-value determination isnt consistent with a much higher bid submitted by Bell.

The dispute also has drawn the attention of Capitol Hill, where Connecticuts congressional delegation members say the Army has repeatedly rejected their requests for more information about how it reached the decision to go with Bell.

Sikorsky is headquartered in Connecticuts 3rd congressional district, which is represented by Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the powerful House Appropriations Committee.

DeLauro issued a statement earlier this month expressing outrage at the lack of information.

Lawmakers, hard-working families in Connecticut, and Sikorskys manufacturing workers deserve to be informed on how this decision was made and why, DeLauro said. This is impacting labor and jobs right here in Stratford, Connecticut.

The committees chairwoman is Rep. Kay Granger, R-Fort Worth, who has Bells headquarters in her backyard.

The congressional dynamics gave the Army plenty of reason to be careful about its process for awarding the contract, said Gregory Sanders, deputy director and fellow at the Defense-Industrial Initiatives Group at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Itll come down to some extent to just how the Army can explain the factors they chose, why they chose them and whether they stayed true to the original criteria, Sanders said of the Sikorsky protest. And if the Army can do that, then theyll probably be in a pretty good position.

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The U.S. and its allies launched large-scale naval drills Monday in the Mediterranean Sea, where Russian warships have been transiting in increasingly high numbers.

The Dynamic Manta drill, which brings together ships, submarines and aircraft, is being held off the Sicilian coast, NATOs Maritime Command said in a statement.

Anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare tactics are the focus of the exercise, which involves units rehearsing how to hunt down and evade enemy forces.

The submarines will take turns hunting and being hunted, closely coordinating their efforts with the air and surface participants, the command said.

The exercise, which includes nine different countries, comes amid what some allies have said is an uptick in Russian activity in the Mediterranean.

Italys top Navy officer, Adm. Enrico Credendino, said last week that Russian military vessels are transiting the Mediterranean at a higher rate than even during the Cold War.

The influx, linked to the war in Ukraine, has raised added concerns about potential military miscalculations.

"The risk of an incident is possible, and when there is an incident of this nature, you never know where you might end up, Credendino told the Italian news agency Ansa.

NATO made no reference to Russian forces in its announcement about maritime exercises in the Mediterranean this week.

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Stephen Mack said Dynamic Mantra is intended to showcase the strategic defense of the alliance by countering multiple threats.
Ludwigsburg, Germany, Feb. 16, 1973: James Baldwin signs autographs as students crowd around at Ludwigsburg High School. The novelist, essayist and playwright, in town for the Black Literature and Culture Week, stopped by the high school to talk to the students and answer their questions. I prefer speaking to kids. I find adults generally ask a question to get themselves off some hook, he would later say at an event at Stuttgarts Liederhalle.
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa  Japan lodged diplomatic protests with China over alleged intrusions by the China coast guard into waters Japan claims as its territory around islets in the East China Sea, according to Japans Foreign Ministry.

Four Chinese coast guard ships passed the 12-mile territorial limit around the Senkakus between 10:15 a.m. and 10:40 a.m. Friday, a Japanese coast guard spokesman told Stars and Stripes by phone Monday. All four vessels left those waters without incident by 12:15 p.m., he said.

Japans Foreign Affairs Ministry lodged complaints with the Chinese Embassy in Japan and with the Chinese government in Beijing on Friday, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman told Stars and Stripes by phone Monday.

This is unacceptable, the spokesman said. We asked them to leave the area immediately.

Some government officials in Japan are required to speak to the media only on condition of anonymity.

A pair of Chinese coast guard vessels approached Taisho Island in the Senkakus from the north and entered the 12-mile limit at 10:15 a.m. and 10:20 a.m., according to the Japanese coast guard spokesman. Two more vessels entered from the southeast of Kuba Island at 10:32 a.m. and 10:40 a.m.

One of those ships appeared to be armed with a deck-mounted machine gun, the spokesman said.

The Chinese vessels were met by a larger contingent of Japanese coast guard ships, the spokesman said. He declined to provide the exact number.

They warned the Chinese vessels to leave the area using radio and electronic message boards, he said.

There was no contact between the vessels, the spokesman said. It remains unclear why the ships entered Japans territorial waters. No Japanese fishermen were operating in the area, which is usually the case when Chinese vessels appear, the spokesman said.

The incidents marked the fifth and sixth times this year that Chinese coast guard vessels intruded into Japans territorial waters, the spokesman said. The last incident occurred Jan. 30.

There is growing concern in Japan that China is stepping up military activities in the region, Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said earlier this month.

Japanese lawmakers in December approved a record defense budget of about $51.4 billion for fiscal year 2023 that emphasized counterstrike capabilities and strengthened standoff air and missile defense.

The Senkakus are 105 miles east of Taiwan. The islets, whose surface area amounts to about 2 square miles, are also claimed by China and Taiwan, which refer to them as Diaoyu Dao and Diaoyutai, respectively. The surrounding area is said to contain a wealth of natural resources, including fish, oil and natural gas.
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  Robert Hawthorne, chief of the American Forces Network Pacific technical services division, died Thursday at this base in western Tokyo after suffering a heart attack, according to a Facebook post by the network Saturday.

His wife, Kim Hawthorne, in a message posted Sunday to the Yokota Civilian Medical Forum Facebook group, said her husband died at the Urgent Care Clinic.

She blamed the clinics inability to provide lifesaving treatment in serious health emergencies and a lack of guaranteed care at Japanese medical facilities for U.S. military personnel for contributing to her husbands death.

The Yokota [Urgent Care Clinic] has no capacity to treat any life altering events, she wrote in her post. It matters not whether you are [active duty] or civilian  BOTH are at extreme risk.

Robert Hawthorne began his career as an airman and continued serving as a civilian leader long after retiring from military service, according to the AFN post.

Rob was an incredible leader with a storied career in the Department of Defense, serving for 40 years across the Defense Media Activity, American Forces Network, Defense Information Systems Agency, the Air Force Broadcasting Service, Air Force Television, and the Air Force New Agency, the post said.

He had a talent for keeping AFN stations broadcasting and networked around the world, it added.

But what well remember most is how he treated people; he was a wonderful mentor and team builder, and his legacy lives on through those he trained and developed through the years, AFN said. We grieve the loss of a true professional, family man, and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the many co-workers who knew Rob.

Kim Hawthornes concerns echoed earlier complaints by Cathy Hakun, whose husband, Andrew Hakun, 52, a Department of Defense civilian employee, died in February 2021 after a long, agonizing wait for surgery following a heart attack at home on Yokota.

After Hakun arrived at the urgent care clinic by ambulance, calls were placed to more than 10 nearby hospitals before finding one in Hachioji, 7 miles from Yokota, that would accept him, according to his medical records.

U.S. military personnel in Japan are living in a country with excellent health care service if you can get to it, his widow said Jan. 27. Anybody on that base who has to go through urgent care is running an unsurvivable risk.

The Defense Health Agency, under a congressional mandate, imposed limits effective Jan. 1 on Department of Defense civilian employees access to most health care at military bases in the Indo-Pacific region. Urgent care and some other services, such as labor and delivery and exams for employment and sports, are still available, but most health care at military hospitals in the region is reserved for beneficiaries of Tricare Prime, the top tier of the military health care plan.

The director of DHAs Indo-Pacific region, Army Maj. Gen. Joseph Heck, in October advised DOD civilians in Japan to look for health care providers in the communities around U.S. military bases.

Kim Hawthorne, in her Facebook post, said staff at Yokotas urgent care clinic are not trained for emergencies.

My husband had no chronic illnesses nor did he have any cardiac history, she wrote. What we experienced at the [urgent care clinic] was devastating.

She declined in a Facebook message Monday to Stars and Stripes to describe her husbands experience at the base clinic.

A Yokota spokesman, Air Force 1st Lt. Danny Rangel, in an email Monday, said officials are working on a response to questions sent by Stars and Stripes about the death.

Health care advocate Randi Wilson, a DOD analyst at Yokota who was inspired to create the Yokota Civilian Medical Forum after the deaths of two coworkers in February 2021, said U.S. personnel in Japan have likely been dying from lack of care for decades.

The forum has identified a dozen such cases over the past two years, she said by phone Monday.

U.S. military leaders in Japan are concerned that support for active-duty troops may suffer if civilian personnel dont want to work in Japan due to inadequate medical care, Wilson said.

Military needs to provide access to primary care for civilians and establish a medical facility certified to provide trauma care for all personnel in Japan, she said.

We rely completely on Japanese facilities and Japanese facilities can deny care at any time, legally, she said.
(Tribune News Service)  When Russia attacked Ukraine last February, investors such as Pennsylvania's state pension funds rushed to dump their Russian investments, horrified at the prospect of profiting from the unprovoked invasion.

And firms with Russian and Ukrainian operations, like the Newtown, Pa.-based EPAM  an information technology outsourcing firm that counted more than 20,000 staff in the two countries and neighboring Belarus  rushed to protect staff and cut its exposure, bracing for falling sales and higher costs.

A year later, as the war grinds on, EPAM is still counting the cost of cutting ties to Russia and moving its Ukrainian staff to safer areas. Meanwhile, big defense contractors, such as Boeing's Ridley Park helicopter factory and Pennsylvania-based ammunition makers that supply the U.S. military and its allies, have gained orders as war equipment sales rise.

And start-ups like Nexteon, a Philadelphia-based software firm whose systems help airliners avoid Russian jamming, say they see opportunity.

'War took a year of our life'

"The Russian invasion shocked the world, and put us on a very different set of priorities," EPAM chief executive Arkadiy Dobkin told investors in a conference call Feb. 16.

At the time of the invasion, more than half the company's $5 billion in yearly software outsourcing work was done in Ukraine, Russia, or Belarus, where Dobkin is from and which Russia dominates.

As Ukrainians battled to hold their capital, Kyiv, shares of EPAM, which had recently joined the S&P 500 list of most-valuable U.S. companies, fell by nearly half, on fears the company would be unable to keep its people working under war conditions.

At first, EPAM's public statements were neutral. Within a week, EPAM had agreed to wind down its profitable Russian business and transfer work from the country. And it pledged $100 million for "humanitarian" aid to its people in the region.

It was a costly move: canceled Russian business cut sales by more than 4% a year, extra expenses for supporting staff in Ukraine cut deeper into earnings, and total revenues are only now returning to prewar levels, Dobkin noted.

The company has spent $45 million so far, he said, moving people and their work to safer locations, taking care of their human needs. It expects additional expenses from winding down Russian clients it will no longer serve.

"The war took a year of our life, a year of our growth," he added. "But we know all too well that it's nothing in comparison to what people in Ukraine must go through today."

Dobkin says EPAM is stronger as a result. Having increased operations in Latin America, India and other distant areas, it is now "one of the most geo-diversified IT services companies," with operations in more than 50 countries, he added. "We didn't lose any significant clients."

While it was reducing operations in Russia, the company has moved work to safer parts of Ukraine, and the quality of work done there remains high, Dobkin said. The company's $51 million Ukraine headquarters, under construction in Kyiv, hasn't been damaged, the company reported last fall.

But "the war in Ukraine is not over, and we believe that it will be our daily reality for some time to come," Dobkin told investors. He called on staff to maintain "even higher level preparedness for new and unexpected challenges," as the global economy slows.

War sales

The U.S. and its European allies have been shipping so much military equipment and ammunition to Ukraine that Pentagon generals have been complaining that supplies are running low and asking Congress to buy more.

European countries are buying more U.S. war equipment to replace what they have sent to Ukraine, or bracing for the threat of future wars.

Among the first contracts announced since hostilities started, Boeing's Ridley Park, Delaware County helicopter plant, was tapped to supply Germany with 60 Chinook CH-47F heavy-lift helicopters, at a cost of more than $5 billion. The deal was in the works before the war began, with Germany feeling pressure from the U.S. to beef up its defenses.

With more than 4,000 workers, the Ridley Park plant is the Philadelphia area's largest remaining industrial employer. While the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has reduced demand for the stronger, sand-resistant Chinook that Boeing had expected to produce there, the German order will help keep the plant busy over the next few years. The plant also makes Osprey vertical take-off aircraft, mostly for the Marines.

Separately, Day & Zimmerman, the Philadelphia engineering conglomerate owned by members of the Yoh family, has been advertising for more workers at the American Ordnance ammunition plant it operates near Des Moines, Iowa, and at other munitions locations in South Carolina, Texas, in its corporate headquarters in Center City, and elsewhere. The company listed 80 open positions in several states at its munitions group, as of last week.

The Army has meanwhile speeded up production at its Scranton Army Ammunition Facility in northeastern Pennsylvania, a former railroad locomotive repair shop which has produced more than a million artillery shells for the Ukrainian armed forces over the past year.

Unjamming

Civil aviation planners have been trying to fit more airliners into global airspace, using the satellite data that powers global positioning systems (GPS) to replace aging radar networks, which don't cover large parts of the planets, and to safely pack more takeoffs and landings into popular airports.

But cybersecurity concerns have delayed more-sophisticated digital systems. And the war in Ukraine has introduced a new element  mass signal-jamming, for example by Russians north and south of Ukraine, and in its Kaliningrad enclave, which borders Poland and the Baltic States, near Germany and Scandinavia.

Increased jamming has given an impetus to specialized communications contractors such as Nexteon Technologies, an Ambler-based software company helping to build an independent signal network.

The Ukraine war "changed the airspace map of Central Europe very fast," said Jill Wittels, the former L3 Communications executive who now serves as chief executive of Nexteon, whose investors include state-funded Ben Franklin Technology Partners and Celerity Capital in West Conshohocken. Staff includes veteran air-traffic engineers and Wall Street fund-raisers.

By early March 2022, just after the Ukraine invasion, Russians were "jamming" the channels used by air traffic with so many signals that commercial pilots flying over Central Europe found they could no longer rely on satellite data. "They end up with a gap in their tracking," said Wittels. "Our system can fill in the gap."

A Ukrainian software development company, ELEKS, is helping build the system. Like many Ukrainian companies, it diverts part of its profits to medical and humanitarian aid, Wittels said.

Nexteon says its system has been tested by three of the largest international airlines and five of the largest in the U.S., in partnership with a group of manufacturers. Wittels said a commercial-cargo carrier she won't identify is already a client, and the firm is in talks with airlines.

The system is expanding from an initial network based in Germany: "Our goal is to cover the globe," Wittels said.

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Dubliner Jason Crowley (37) who had one month left to run on a previous ban, was fined 500 and banned for further 10 years

A defence forces worker caught driving without insurance for the fifth time has been spared jail.

Jason Crowley (37) had one month left to run on a previous driving ban when he took the car to the chemist to get medicine for his partner.

Judge Ciaran Liddy banned him for another 10 years, fined him 500 and gave him a three-month suspended sentence.

Crowley, of Montpelier Park, Dublin 7 admitted driving without insurance or a licence.

Blanchardstown District Court heard he was stopped by gardai when he ran a red light in the west of the city on September 26 last year.

Crowley had four previous convictions for uninsured driving and was under a disqualification at the time of the latest offence, having been given a six-year ban in 2017.

He admitted his disqualification when stopped, his solicitor Valerie Buckley said. He had worked with the defence forces and was very active in the community.

On the night, his partner was not well and he went to the chemist to get some medication. He unfortunately made the decision to drive.

He doesnt seem to be getting the message, the judge said.
Colin Kevitt (29) was sentenced to four years and eight months with the final year suspended

A man who claimed his DNA was on a loaded semi-automatic pistol because he had earlier handled it at a party has been jailed for possession of the weapon.

Colin Kevitt (29) of Moneymore, Drogheda, Co Louth pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol at another home in the town on February 8, 2020.

He has previous conviction for more minor offences dealt with in the District Court.

It was accepted in court that there is no evidence that the gun had been used in any criminal offence.

The court heard that the gun was found wrapped in black plastic underneath a flower pot in a wicker basket by the homeowner who was out tidying the front of her house. She was unable to remove the plastic and called the gardai because she suspected it was a gun.

Gardai later discovered it was a Glock pistol with five bullets loaded in the magazine. Further rounds of ammunition were found with the weapon. The gun was taken for forensic testing and found to be in fair condition.

Kevitt was arrested later in Dublin on a separate issue and his DNA was taken. His DNA was later found to match samples taken from the gun itself and he was questioned in relation to this but made no admissions.

Oisin Clarke BL, defending, told Judge Melanie Greally that his client now instructs that a friend had taken the gun out at a party previously and he handled it at that time. He submitted that his clients DNA was not found on the bullets or the plastic wrapping that surrounded the gun.

Judge Greally said it was obvious that Kevitt had handled the weapon at some point. She said if it had been such an innocent and passing encounter, I am sure that explanation would have been proffered at an earlier stage, referring to the fact that Kevitt did not give this explanation to the gardai when invited, during garda interview, to comment on how his DNA came to be on the gun.

She noted that his District Court convictions related to concentrated offending in 2017 and 2018 and how this offence represents a very marked escalation in his criminal behaviour.

Judge Greally said it was a very serious offence but accepted that Kevitt had a background of addiction and homelessness.

She set a headline sentence of six years which she reduced to four years and eight months to take into consideration mitigating factors including Kevitt's guilty plea, lack of previous convictions for firearms and his positive engagement with the Probation Service.

She suspended the final year on various conditions including that he engage with addiction services. She backdated the sentence to August last year.
Glen Behan (21) received as a six-month suspended sentence

Glen Behan had the drug when gardai searched him on noticing he seemed nervous after a suspected drugs transaction. Photo: Paddy Cummins

A father-of-one caught with a Kinder egg full of crack cocaine has been spared jail for drug dealing in Dublin city centre.

Glen Behan (21) had the drug when gardai searched him on noticing he seemed nervous after a suspected drugs transaction.

Judge Bryan Smyth gave him a six-month suspended sentence.

Behan, with an address at Dermot ODwyer House, Dublin 7 pleaded guilty at Dublin District Court to possession of drugs with intent to sell or supply.

The court heard plainclothes gardai were on patrol at Millennium Walk at 3.40pm on February 3, 2021. They saw a suspected drugs transaction between two individuals, with money changing hands.

Glen Behan had the drug when gardai searched him on noticing he seemed nervous after a suspected drugs transaction. Photo: Paddy Cummins

When approached, Behan appeared nervous and attempted to walk away. He was arrested and brought to Store Street garda station where he was found with a Kinder egg containing 14 street deals of crack cocaine.

The accused, who was 19 at the time of the offence, had had an addiction but had since gone for treatment and now had a full-time job, his solicitor Yvonne Bambury said.

He had no offences of this type in his past, she said.

Its a serious matter, crack cocaine, the judge said.

Ms Bambury said Behan had turned his life around and was now clean of drugs. He had made the decision of his own volition without anyone pushing him into it.

Judge Smyth said a custodial sentence was warranted but he suspended the sentence.
Philip Flynn (61) had been walking two Staffordshire bull terriers. One of them broke loose and set upon a swan in the Royal Canal

A grandfather has been spared jail for failing to control an unmuzzled Staffordshire bull terrier which "ripped the whole side" off a swan nesting in the Royal Canal in Dublin.

Philip Flynn (61) of Friary Court, Dublin 7, pleaded guilty to an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare Act.

Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) inspector Tony McGovern told Judge Anthony Halpin that the incident happened at Whitworth Road, along the Royal Canal on April 1, 2020.

Dublin District Court heard the female swan about to lay eggs, and a male swan had been nesting in the area at the time.

The inspector told Judge Anthony Halpin that a concerned member of the public notified the DSPCA, and he went to the scene. Gardai were also called.

The court heard the prosecution case was that Flynn had been walking two Staffordshire bull terriers.

One of them "broke loose and set upon a swan in the canal".

The court heard the leash had snapped, and the DSPCA officer believed it could not hold the dog.

A Staffordshire bull terrier. Stock image

Judge Halpin noted that it was one of 12 restricted breeds under the control of dog regulations and must be muzzled and kept on a leash in public.

Although small, they were "quite strong"; in this case, the dog should have been on a stronger short leash.

The DSPCA inspector recalled seeing the swan on the canal "slumped across the lock", and he noticed "the whole side ripped from the swan".

It was rushed to a vet but had to be euthanised.

The court heard Flynn had no prior convictions and made full admissions after the incident.

Defence counsel Seosaimhin Ni Chathasaigh told the court Flynn did not own the dogs, which belonged to another person, but he brought them for a walk.

The barrister said he tried to restrain the one that attacked the swan, which resulted in him getting injured too, and he was apologetic.

"I was trying to get the dog away from the swan when the dog bit me," he told the court.

Counsel said Flynn had previously had a long-term drug problem, and he began abusing heroin when he was 15, but he is now free of all illicit substances. Pleading for leniency, the barrister outlined his health problems and asked the court not to impose a period of imprisonment.

Noting the dog had been surrendered to an animal pound, Judge Halpin described the breed as bullies and said they should be trained to obey commands.

From the photos of the injuries, he said the swan would not have been able to look after its cygnet had it gone full term.

An aggravating factor was that if the dog had a muzzle, it would not have resulted in the swan's death. However, he held the mitigating factors outweighed the aggravating ones and did not jail Flynn.

Instead, he convicted and fined him 500, and ordered him to pay 300 toward the DSPCA's expenses within six months.
During the opening reception on Sunday for the Artistic Quilt Show at the Heyde Center for the Arts in Chippewa Falls, the artists spoke about their quilting expertise. About 150 people attended.

The quilting community has a long history of creative expression through fabric artistry, said Mary Hermanson, guest curator of the show.

My goal is to use the elements of traditional quilting to create complex and exciting visual imagery. My art comes alive through the use of a fabric palette; these images reflect my love for bright colors and my appreciation for all the beautiful fabrics to enhance my palette, Hermanson said. Making art is like a bridge: it is a way to get from one point to another, a way to connect with challenging issues we have in this world we live in  and it is a wonderful way for me to move through life.

Ellen B. Nelson, one of Sundays speakers, said she first realized she had a passion for fiber, fabric and thread in grade school. After a career in the corporate world, and raising a family she now likes to engage in an exploration of fiber, fabric and thread.

I started with the embroidery of potholders in the fifth grade, Nelson said. My first efforts were in all forms of embroidery, then knitting, beading and now I bring these passions together in art quilting.

Nelson moved onto cross-stitch, crewel and needlepoint, then moved into art quilting, she said.

Nelson said she struggles to sew in a straight line. Thats part of the reason that layering fabrics to create images appeals to her.

Art quilting really resonated with me because it was a good, doable choice for my skill set, Nelson said. Art quilting is an original exploration of a concept or ideas It experiments with textile manipulation, color, texture and/ or a diversity of mixed media.

An art quilt is a quilt style that deviates from the use of traditional, historical blocks and patterns. The emphasis is on the design rather than functionality. Art quilts are also created in a variety of styles such as abstract, improvisational, collage, landscape or nature inspired as well as pictorial or portrait quilts.

Nelson said she loves to incorporate things into her work which come from the Alice in Wonderland story. She displayed one piece on Sunday of the Dodo bird  a fictional character appearing in chapters two and three of the 1865 book Alices Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

Nelson likes to continue to improve her skill set by taking as many workshops as possible at Woodland Ridge Retreat, owned by the other event speaker, Chris Daly.

Woodland Ridge Retreat facility first opened in 1998 as a stand-alone luxury hotel addition to the Creamery Restaurant and Inn in Downsville. In 2013, Chris and Mark Daly purchased the property with hopes to provide a creative workspace for artists.

Since the beginning, Woodland Ridge Retreat has served as a center for fiber art workshops, as well as creative retreats for sewers, knitters, needlepoint artists and scrapbookers.

After Nelson and Daly spoke on Sunday, attendees wandered through the facility to examine each others work.

Kathy Smith said she spent three years creating her piece, The Joy of Fishing, with a raw edge applique with steam and a zigzag edge.

Theyre Wisconsin game fish. My husband helped me pick out the fabrics. It was his retirement gift, she said.

Alice Weickelt displayed numerous pieces including Year of the Woman, which depicts numerous famous paintings of women. She created the collage during 2018 while at home recovering from surgery during a time when multiple allegations of sexual harassment and assault came out against well-known men.

It just so happened to be the time that Harvey Weinstein was going through all of that sexual abuse and stuff and all my mind was saying was, I wonder if all these models were done by the artists, she said. I would go to the library and get stacks of books about a particular artist and then study them.

Weickelt said the piece took her nine months to complete.

I just love it. I like to imagine this one woman is giving the artist the middle finger even though her fingers arent visible, she said. It is a very satisfying way to express yourself. I hope the model was able to express herself too.

The show at the Heyde Center displays 150 quilted works from 60 regional artists. Displays include traditional bed quilts, wall hangings, clothing and smaller items.

The Artistic Quilt Show exhibit will run until April 5. It aims to recognize and showcase the artistic talent that abounds in the quilting community of Western Wisconsin.

The Heyde Center is located at 3 South High St. in Chippewa Falls and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.

Artistic Quilt Show, Chippewa Falls Granddaughter quilt Hermanson, Nelson and Daly Quilts 1 Quilts 2 Quilts 3 Quilts 4 Quilt demo Quilts 5
Conor Price was being shown around the building by a colleague when he lewdly propositioned her in a linen room

A new worker at a Dublin hotel was being shown around the building by a young colleague when he lewdly propositioned her in a linen room, leaving her terrified.

Conor Price stood in front of the door and repeatedly asked the distressed 18-year-old if she wanted to taste it.

Price, who had mental health problems, mistakenly believed that staff in the hotel were engaging in sexual activity at the time.

He later suffered a breakdown and was diagnosed with psychosis, his defence said.

Price, now aged 27, of Moorfield Drive, Clondalkin, Dublin pleaded guilty to offensive conduct of a sexual nature by asking a woman if she wanted to 'taste' his penis.

Judge Bryan Smyth adjourned the case for supporting medical evidence and further mitigation.

Garda Damien McGee told Dublin District Court the incident happened in a hotel in the city on a date in September 2021.

The victim was more senior to the accused who had just started work in the hotel days earlier, she said.

She was showing Price around the hotel when he asked her to show him the linen room at the back of the building.

When she brought him there, Price closed the door, stood in front of it and asked the injured party did she want to taste it.

She said no and the question was asked a few times. Each time she said no, then she pushed past Price and left the room, going to the main body of the hotel.

He followed her back into the hotel, Gda McGee said. Neither party talked to each other or worked with each other after that.

Price had no prior convictions.

Conor Price   Collins Dublin, Garrett White

It had quite a traumatising effect on me, as I had to move completely to a different hotel because I couldnt stand to be in that area the victim told the court.

She was taken away from training staff because of the incident.

I was wary with any male staff I had to work with, I just dont trust at all, Im terrified she said.

At the time of the incident, Price believed there was sexual activity going on between staff members in the hotel, his barrister said.

This was mistaken and came from the psychosis with which he was subsequently diagnosed.

His understanding of what was happening at the time was extremely impaired, the lawyer said.

He had some sort of breakdown and was now taking medication.

His family took the incident very seriously and members were in court supporting him in his difficulties.

Price had dropped out of a counselling and psychotherapy course in college due to his own deteriorating mental health. He did a culinary course and was now training as a chef in a restaurant.

Price accepted it was an awful offence and there was no hiding from the facts but it was an isolated incident, the barrister said.

Judge Smyth said it was a traumatic experience for the victim and it was a terrible thing that she had to leave the hotel and no longer trusted male colleagues.
Dawood Aziz (37) told gardai he became involved as a way of clearing that debt he had accrued due to a failed business venture

A man who said he was holding a large amount of ketamine in order to pay off a debt he had run up because of a failed business venture has been jailed.

Dawood Aziz (37) of Valley Drive, Druid Valley, Cabinteely, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of 300,360 worth of ketamine and possession of a mobile phone for use in connection with a drug trafficking offence at Robinhood Industrial Estate, Dublin 22, on November 10, 2020.

Detective Garda Eamonn Tighe told Brian Storan BL, prosecuting, that gardai had confidential information particular to the accused and set up a surveillance operation during which Aziz was spotted moving items from a premises to his van.

Gardai moved in and searched the van and found just over 300,000 worth of ketamine in the vehicle. Aziz was arrested and accepted possession of the drugs. He said that someone had just dropped it off to him.

He told gardai that he was in debt at the time due to a failed business venture and he became involved as a way of clearing that debt.

Dawood Aziz (37)   Collins Dublin

Judge Melanie Greally noted that Aziz has a previous conviction for possession of cannabis for sale or supply.

Michael Bowman SC, defending, replied that his client maintains that the drugs in that instance  approximately 200g of cannabis  were for his own personal use and he intended to smoke his way through that.

Perhaps his drug habits...provide an alternative explanation for his failing business, Judge Greally commented. Mr Bowman said that his client certainly bit off more than he could chew when it came to managing the business.

Det Gda Tighe agreed with Mr Bowman that his client came from a very hard working and decent immigrant family who had built up a successful catering business.

He accepted that Aziz struck out of his own but quickly ran into quite substantial debt and that others took advantage of this. Det Gda Tighe agreed that the encrypted mobile phone Aziz was caught with is often provided by individuals in the drug industry to maintain secrecy.

Yes, these phones are given out to people on a certain level, to avoid detection, the detective said.

Judge Greally noted a number of mitigating factors including the guilty pleas, a good history of employment and the support of Aziz's very pro-social family. She said she also noted charitable work carried out by the offender.

She suspended the final 18 months of a five year sentence on conditions, including that he engage with addiction services and remain under Probation Service supervision for 12 months.
Douglas Purcell (40) told the garda he would find his house and shoot his family. Purcell then started doing push-ups on the ground

A man who threatened to shoot a garda's family will be sentenced later this year.

Douglas Purcell (40) of Springdale Road, Raheny, Dublin 5, pleaded guilty to one count of making a threat to kill or cause serious harm at Ballyfermot Garda Station on August 20, 2017.

At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Monday, Judge Orla Crowe adjourned the case to April and ordered Purcell to engage with the Probation Service during this period.

Detective Sergeant Ronan McDermott told prosecuting counsel that Purcell was arrested on a separate charge and taken to Ballyfermot Garda Station. The garda member in charge of the station decided to put a number of charges to Purcell in the cell.

During this process, Purcell told the injured party he would follow him, find his house and shoot his wife and children. The defendant came close to the injured party's face, and started doing push-ups on the ground.

Det Sgt McDermott said Purcell was arrested in relation to this incident on September 11, 2017. He was interviewed once and made no admissions.

A victim impact statement was read to the court. The injured party said he became paranoid leaving work that someone would follow him home. He said he installed CCTV and new gates at his home.

The injured party said he developed a poor sleeping pattern as he'd be checking for people outside. He said he felt the apology offered by Purcell came five years too late and offered little solace to him.

The court heard Purcell has a number of previous convictions including 26 for theft and 12 for criminal damage.

Det Sgt McDermott agreed with Pieter Le Vert BL, defending, that his client accepted in interview that he was aggressive when charged. Purcell apologised for calling names, but denied making threats.

Mr Le Vert said his client wished to reiterate his apology to the injured party and had brought a concrete expression of remorse to court. His client had a nomadic early life in the UK before moving to Ireland when he was 16, the court heard. As a result, Purcell had no formal schooling.

Defence counsel said Purcell, a married father of three, has had mental health difficulties and was addicted to crack cocaine at the time of this offence. His client is still using cannabis resin, but no longer drinks or uses hard drugs. A psychological report was also handed to the court.

Mr Le Vert said his client was involved in an accident when he was 24, which left him with a serious back injury. Purcell's wife also gave evidence of her husband's addiction and mental health difficulties.

Mr Le Vert noted that the Probation Service deemed his client to be at high risk of re-offending. He asked Judge Crowe to consider adjourning the case to give his client an opportunity to engage with Probation Services and other relevant supports.

Judge Crowe directed the prosecution to contact the injured party to see if he would be willing to accept the expression of remorse. She also ordered urine analysis for the next court date.
A 700-a-day fine has now been rolling for 32 days, meaning that if he does not discontinue his actions his fines will rise to more than 25,000 by the end of this week.

Sacked schoolteacher Enoch Burke has turned up at his former workplace again this morning, with his ongoing fines for contempt of court now rising to 22,400.

The controversial teacher arrived at Wilsons Hospital School in Multyfarnham, Co Westmeath, at around 8.40am.

He is still in defiance of court orders not to be at the school.

A 700-a-day fine has now been rolling for 32 days, meaning that if he does not discontinue his actions his fines will rise to more than 25,000 by the end of this week.

The High Court is expected to review the imposition of the fines tomorrow, with a hearing scheduled before Mr Justice Brian OMoore.

Enoch Burke at Wilsons Hospital School in Multyfarnham on a previous occasion

The issue had initially been due to be reviewed on February 10, but this was postponed due to pressure on the courts list.

Mr Justice OMoore said last month that if the daily fine imposed on Mr Burke does not have the desired effect, it can always be increased.

The judge previously ruled out further imprisonment or the sequestration of Mr Burkes assets, the two other options available to the court for dealing with ongoing contempt.

Last week the Irish Independent reported that Burke appears to have sabotaged his chances of winning an appeal against High Court orders after turning up at his former workplace despite being warned by the President of the Court of Appeal that it may not deliver a decision if there was further egregious conduct by him.

Mr Justice George Birmingham warned last Thursday week that it would consider appeals of just two of the four High Court decisions Mr Burke was seeking to challenge, but that a decision on the merits was very much in Mr Burkes hands.

The three-judge court made the decision to limit what it would consider after the dismissed schoolteacher refused to say if he would stay away from Wilsons Hospital School pending the delivery of its ruling.

Mr Burke has continued to go to its premises each school day despite first being suspended and later dismissed from his job there as a teacher of history and German.

He spent 108 days in prison last year for contempt of court orders and is currently being fined for each day he remains in contempt.

His suspension last August came after Mr Burke, an evangelical Christian, refused to comply with a request from the then principal to call a transgender pupil by a new name and by their preferred pronouns.

He was sacked last month but a tribunal will hear an appeal of his dismissal in April.

The teacher is not appealing the order which resulted in his imprisonment.

Instead he is asking the Court of Appeal to set aside a temporary injunction granted by Ms Justice Siobhan Stack last August restraining him from attending for work, and a subsequent decision of Mr Justice Max Barrett last September to keep the injunction in place pending a final hearing of the matter.

These decisions will be considered by the Court of Appeal.

But two other subsequent High Court decisions, made by Mr Justice Conor Dignam and Ms Justice Eileen Roberts, will not.

These include the dismissal of an application brought by Mr Burke aimed at setting aside his suspension.

Outlining his appeal, Mr Burke claimed the orders restraining him from turning up at the school were unlawful, unconstitutional and had no legal effect.

He referred to articles of the Constitution regarding freedom to practice religious beliefs and homage to God.

Mr Justice Birmingham, sitting with Mr Justice John Edwards and Ms Justice Maire Whelan, said last Thursday week the court was unimpressed Mr Burke wont offer any assurance regarding his future conduct.

After rising to consider whether it would hear the appeal at all, the judge said the court would consider his challenge to orders restraining him from turning up at the school but would not consider what he described as positive orders being sought by Mr Burke.

Mr Justice Birmingham also warned that the court may not deliver a decision in the appeal at all if there was further egregious conduct by Mr Burke, a reference to his ongoing contempt of court by going to the school.

Whether there will be a decision on the merits will be very much in Mr Burkes hands, said Mr Justice Birmingham.
Interim Minister for Justice Simon Harris plans to bring forward proposals to amend laws to increase sentences for assaults causing harm to members of An Garda Siochana and other emergency service workers.

People who attack gardai could face sentences of 12 years in prison under new proposals being brought to the Government over the next few weeks.

Interim Minister for Justice Simon Harris plans to bring forward proposals to amend laws to increase sentences for assaults causing harm to members of An Garda Siochana and other emergency service workers.

He said he will introduce a maximum sentence of 12 years for such assaults against on duty gardai and emergency service workers, such as hospital staff, prison officers, fire brigade personnel, ambulance workers or members of the Defence Forces.

The new laws will also apply to people who ram emergency vehicles and garda cars.

"I want to change the law to ensure that we, the people's representatives, send a very clear message that attacks on members of An Garda Siochana will not be tolerated and will be dealt with robustly by a law that provides for longer sentences," Mr Harris said.

Meanwhile, a new law is going through the Oireachtas to raise the maximum sentence of assault causing harm to a member of the general population from five years to ten years.

It comes after a spate of attacks on members of An Garda Siochana over the past few months, with the most recent incident injuring an on-duty garda in Ballyfermot, Dublin last week.

Shocking video of two Gardai assaulted in Ballyfermot

Minister Harris is due to discuss the issue with the Garda Representative Association (GRA) later today.

GRA President Brendan OConnor told Newstalk he will also use the meeting to call for a special task force to deal with violence against gardai.

Health and safety and working conditions are quite complex so the different departments need and input, he said.

The now-Tanaiste made a reference to a task force in light of the recent attacks so we want to explore that and get a task force up and running with a seat at the table for ourselves.
Marius, who was 19, was allegedly attacked in Swords, North Co Dublin on Thursday, died as a result of the injuries he received.

Supporters have raised 15,000 to help the family of slain teenager Marius Mamaliga who died in hospital last night after an alleged stab attack last week.

Marius, who was 19, was allegedly attacked in Swords, North Co Dublin on Thursday, died as a result of the injuries he received.

His close friend Matthew Czujek set up the special GoFundMe page to help his family saying: I want to help the family as much as possible.

He was raised by a beautiful family and always treated everyone with respect and love. Cant thank him enough for what hes done for me and all of his friends around him.

Marius was loved by everyone around him and meant a lot to his friends. He never failed to make them laugh and was always there for them when they needed him.

We all love him very much and may he forever be in our hearts. We wanted to create this GoFundMe to support Marius and his family during this time and give Marius the memorial he deserves.

The donations will be used to cover the cost of his funeral and to support his family with other costs. Any donation is greatly appreciated and will be directly given to his parents.

Gardai confirmed last night that he had died at Beaumont Hospital after sustaining serious injuries in the alleged attack at Brookdale Avenue, Swords.

Brandon Gavin (20) is accused with assault under section four of the Non-Fatal Offences Act and was charged in connection with the alleged attack.

He appeared in court on Saturday evening where Detective Garda Conor Tumbleton told Judge Brian Smyth that Mr Mamaliga had been stabbed in the neck.

Detective Garda Tumbleton said an artery had been cut as a result of the attack, and "medical staff were unsure if he would survive and if he does so, probably will have severe brain damage".

It was alleged he had been in his Audi car with two other males who gave statements.

They claimed they were parked when another male opened the car door and struck Mr Mamaliga in the neck before running away.

The court heard that the accused allegedly went home "crying and trembling" and told another family member to "get dad, get dad".

An hour and twenty minutes after the incident, he handed himself into gardai after his father brought him to Swords station.

The court heard that Mr Gavin told gardai under caution that "he came at me, I defended myself, I stabbed him".

The court heard he allegedly owed them 2,000  2,500.

The detective agreed with defence solicitor Morgan Redmond that Mr Gavin had never come to attention before.

He confirmed that the 20-year-old came to the garda station and was from a good and supportive family. His parents and other relatives were present for proceedings.

Pleading for bail, Mr Redmond asked the judge to note his client's family support and that they wished to stand bail.

Judge Bryan Smith set bail with a bond of 1,000 but also required a surety of 50,000, of which half must be lodged.

Once approved, Mr Gavin can take up bail and will have to sign on three days a week at a garda station, provide gardai with a mobile phone number and be available at all times.

The judge warned that there must be no direct or indirect contact, including by social media or any electronic means, with the injured party, the two witnesses and their families.
At a session of the Marengo Trial in which members of the Taghi gang are being tried for six murders, they called for Said Razzouki to be jailed for life.

Dutch prosecutors are seeking a life sentence for the right-hand man of Kinahan Cartel partner Ridouan Taghi.

At a session of the Marengo Trial in which members of the Taghi gang are being tried for six murders, they called for Said Razzouki to be jailed for life.

Razzouki had been extradited from Colombia to face trial along with mob boss Taghi who had been sent back from Dubai.

The trial has been marked by a series of murders despite the high-security surrounding proceedings, including that of a journalist who was an advisor to a gang member turned state witness.

Also killed were the brother of the state witness and a lawyer who had been acting for him.

Taghi is one of the suspected members of the super-cartel who all attended Daniel Kinahans wedding celebration at the Burj al Arab hotel in 2017.

On Friday, the Public Prosecution Service demanded life in prison against Razzouki who is accused of several murders and attempted murders and of leading a criminal organization.

Prosecutors described it as a completely unscrupulous organisation.

At Fridays hearing prosecutors pointed to the empty seats reserved for relatives of the victims who are too frightened to attend.

There is not a single surviving relative who dares to exercise the right to speak. They will not tell you who their father, brother, son or loved one was, what he meant to them and how he is still missed."

The prosecution said the motive for most of the murders was revenge and to ensure silence because there was talk or to prevent talk.

The statements of the key State witness were of great importance in tracking down the gang leaders who had remained largely out of sight.

Daniel Kinahan

His statements showed that this series of murders was committed by one and the same organisation. It also turned out that there were others on the list to be killed by this organisation.

As well as the witness statements a large number of encrypted messages from the suspects were also used in evidence.

They provided a shocking insight into the way in how the accused men talked to each other about murders and victims.

Intercepted messages showed Taghi saying that if necessary, the killer should break into his home and do it in daylight.

They were told no matter what time or morning or night light, if it sleeps, you will be well rewarded. and told to carry it out calm and stylish.

The Public Prosecutor previously said Taghi and Razzouki are the leaders of the gang who set out to ruthlessly stamp their mark on the Dutch underworld.

Anyone considered a threat was put on Taghis death list including innocent people he feared could provide information to the police.

He micro-managed some killings ordering the hit teams to put three bullets into the head of one victim and to carry out the murders with style.

In those messages it is about dogs and son of a whore/children who have to go to sleep, said the prosecution.

In a period of just over 17 months, six men have been killed and another seven have been attempted. Those numbers are unbelievable. If everything had worked out, that would have been almost one fatality per month.

According to the Public Prosecution Service, Said Razzouki was the right hand and also "actually a kind of older brother" of Taghi.

He was in direct contact with T. about the murders to be carried out. He also collected information about the whereabouts of intended victims and gave instructions to spotters about observing the targets.

He is also accused of managing the stock of weapons and tested those weapons himself before the murders were committed

Razzoukis trial was delayed compared to the five other suspects, including Taghi, in which prosecutors already made the case for life sentences to be handed down.

The Marengo trial had already started before his arrest in Colombia in February 2020 before being extradited in December 2021.
A lot of people trade in self-deprecating humour but its not authentic to me, my life has been 52 years of uninterrupted success

Meet the man who is an accountant by day and comedian by night.

Patrick McLoughlin only took up comedy a couple of years ago but has gone from strength to strength ever since.

Its not often that a man in his early 50s enjoys any success, Mr McLoughlin said, dryly.

After seeing a show back in 2018 at Cherry Comedy in Whelans, the statistician decided it was time to try something new.

I saw a gig a few years ago and there was a frenzied crowd. I saw the act walk on stage and just thought wow, what must that feel like?

I knew I had to do something. I like my job but most people think its pretty dull.

I started out in the HaPenny Bridge pub. Im an accountant by trade and I just felt like I had to do something, that I had to flex that creative muscle, Mr McLoughlin said.

And success has now come his way after winning The Bray Comedy Festival New Act recently.

The comic described what it felt like to take home the win, in font of a packed crowd in The Harbour Bar in the Wicklow town.

Ive now come to think of Bray as an international trading centre, yes, to walk away with the loot was fun.

Its the gift that keeps on giving. There was nine in the final, eight or nine previous in each of the four heats.

Its like that line from Conan the Barbarian, - Crush them and do not relent until you hear the lamentations of their women.

My style of comedy is stupid things with a straight face. People open up the sluice gates of filth but I dont have the DNA for that, so its just silly stuff.

Its me doing stupid things and other people doing stupid things. Any time I try to make a political point, I just come across as mean.

So, I keep it silly, said Patrick.

Getting a good start is key when performing humour, as the new act winner described:

If you can make that strong start in comedy and get them on board, people will stay with you.

A lot of people trade in self-deprecating humour but its not authentic to me, my life has been 52 years of uninterrupted success.

The prize is amazing; ten big gigs and festivals, including All Together Now in Waterford and Electric Picnic in Laois.

For me, this is a real step up and opportunity. I am very excited.

Could the newfound fame go to Patricks head, like it did to George Best, perhaps?

Well, I cant see myself ending up like that. Ive never met a Miss World. Maybe in Portarlington, he added.

See Patrick take to the stage on the following dates:

10th Mar, Anvil Comedy, Anvil Inn, Portarlington  12th Mar, Slatts Laughs, Slatterys Pub, Grand Canal St  31st Mar, Brass Fox Comedy, Brass Fox, Wicklow Town  01st Apr, You Talk Funny, Anseo, Camden St  04th Apr, Comedy Cavern, Cork  05th Apr, Hapenny Comedy, Hapenny Inn, Wellington Quay  21st Apr, Louth Laughs, Tipsy Cow, Dundalk
Cian also reveals that one of his site foremen is forced to sleep in a Portakabin car every night despite being on over 60,000 a year

A young man who was earning 600 a week on building sites claims he was forced to live on the streets because he could not find anywhere to rent and has now left Ireland because he couldnt survive here.

Despite helping to build swanky apartments, Cian Murtagh became enraged that not only did he realise he knew he could never buy one let alone rent and instead ended up sleeping in doorways.

The 29-year-old Meath man will be seen on Virgin Medias heart-wrenching new documentary series on the homelessness crisis, Stories From The Street.

Cian also revealed to the Sunday World that one of his site foremen is forced to sleep in a Portakabin car every night despite being on over 60,000 a year as he too could not find anywhere to live in Dublin.

Cian couldn't find anywhere to rent in Dublin. Photo: Virgin Media

I know the price of some of the apartments I finished, like 800,000 or 900,000 to buy, a small box apartment, fumed Cian. We dont have a Government, we have a couple of families who milk the country.

They dont look out for our own at all. Ireland was meant to be where I would live and experience. Its not a place to rear a young family as kids these days wont be able to afford anywhere when they grow up.

Cian grew up in Dunboyne and was in care homes before going to Carlow IT, where he did Humanities for two years before dropping out of college.

He ended up living on the streets for nearly the past three years.

I was initially rough sleeping in Galway, he explained. I was homeless about a year or so before I went to Dublin.

I wanted to avoid Dublin at all costs because I knew it was dangerous. I travelled literally around the entire island before I got to Dublin.

I ran out of cash, I ran out of everything. I couldnt get a job anywhere, Covid, lockdowns, so there was nothing to do.

So, I wandered down to the Dublin boardwalk and looked around. Normally I would have found a small village or bench or whatever, but then I just wandered down to the boardwalk, lay on the bench and went asleep. That was it, I just got stuck in Dublin.

Its a very dangerous spot (the boardwalk), Ive seen people get stabbed and murdered. But most of the people knew me and just left me alone.

He endured all sorts of conditions.

I lived with it. I was homeless a year before that. I got lashed on, I got frozen. Id wake up, the sleeping bag would be covered in frost, youd be afraid of tearing it trying to open it. Youd be waking up soaked to the bone and shivering for the first half hour Sometimes youd wonder how youd woke up at all, youd think youre dead.

He tried three different hostels over the space of a year.

I dont do drugs but in one of them lads were smoking crack and heroin two feet away from me in the room. I asked them to stop and there was a bit of a kerfuffle over that, he recalls.

I was convinced to go into another one. I was promised a room for workers, but I was put in with three Romanian lads and one of the bigger lads tried to strangle me one morning for not being Romanian.

A third hostel also did not work out after he broke his ribs in a fight.

Cian got into labouring and then went into roofing, and was getting about 150 a day and coming out with about 600 a week.

The places I was trying to rent had literally hundreds of people trying to see it and I couldnt afford them. I never got a call back. The ones I did get a call back, I just couldnt afford. I tried everywhere, he revealed.

He started living in a converted shipping container in the Wicklow mountains his boss sourced for him, but after a month living there it became too much of an ordeal between commuting and also it being flooded.

He spent about a month living on the streets before deciding to move to northwest England, where he has now found a flat and is working as a labourer on weekdays and as a barman at weekends.

My rent is 550 a month and with bills it can come up to 670 a month, he reveals. The equivalent of this place in Ireland would be about 1800 a month without bills.

Theres a foreman on one of the sites in Dublin, hes on 60 or 70k a year, who also works nights as a security guard, and sleeps in a Portakabin because he cant get anywhere to rent.

Loads of lads I know are either in vans or hostels, or hotels with their missus.

They got me a new passport, work gear, loads of stuff, even though Im not English. I got no help in Ireland.
Someone out there knows more than they are saying

Amy Fitzpatricks family are set to have their most high profile meeting with an Irish government minister since the Irish girl went missing on New Years Day 2008.

Christine, Amys crusading aunt, has confirmed she is due to meet Tanaiste and Minster for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin on Wednesday.

Im allowed to bring one other person and while Id like to bring my husband Billy, Id appeal to bring my daughter as well, as she runs the website and has huge knowledge about the ins and outs of it, Christine told the Sunday World.

She has one major aim in her meeting with the Tanaiste.

I want him to put pressure on the Spanish authorities to upgrade Amys case from that of a missing person to a murder case, she stresses.

Amy has been missing now for 15 years and she has not been in touch with anyone since, friends or family. She had never used her bank card and theres never been a sighting of her.

Sadly, its now to be assumed that she is deceased, and somebody out there knows something.

Christine with a picture of Amy

Christine adds that Amys father is still in bits about his daughters disappearance.

Hes not coping very well, hes quite broken, she sighs. But we are giving him all the support we can.

Amys only sibling, her older brother Dean, was knifed to death by their mothers partner Dave Mahon in Dublin in May 2013 .

The couple had been minding both children when they lived with them in Spain at the time of Amys disappearance.

Amy would have turned 30 on February 7.

She would more than likely be married with perhaps a child or two. She had her whole life ahead of her when she went missing.

Amy Fitzpatricks mother Audrey and Dave Mahon

Christine recently went to the Spanish embassy in Dublin to plead with them to do more to prioritise the case.

I would have liked to have met the ambassador but they only sent a girl in the office out to collect my letter, she complains.

But she is pleased the Tanaiste has agreed to meet her.

I would like to meet anyone in authority that would listen to us, she confirms. Our meeting with the Tanaiste is the highest level weve got so far in our campaign and its very welcome.

We have tried to do all we can to highlight the case and urge Interpol to do more.

"The Guards did go over once, but that was in the early days. They should go over again and look for the case to be upgraded, and people to be questioned.

"It needs to be upgraded because if it stays as it is - its dormant and its left lying on the shelf.

Christine adds that a tip off about stables where Amy may be buried was received several months ago.

That building has still not been searched properly, despite information she could be there, she stressed.

All we want is closure of the case and to give Amy a Christian burial. Someone out there knows more than they are saying, and Id plead with them to come forward, even anonymously.
The investigation of the Nord Stream explosions is a high global priority

10:37, February 27, 2023 By Jeffrey D. Sachs ( People's Daily

On February 21, the UN Security Council held a public meeting on the Nord Stream Pipeline Destruction and its follow-up investigation. I made a video speech at the meeting. The destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines on September 26, 2022 constitutes an act of international terrorism and represents a threat to the peace. It is the responsibility of the UN Security Council to take up the question of who might have carried out the act, in order to bring the perpetrator to international justice, to pursue compensation for the damaged parties, and to prevent future such actions.

The consequences of the destruction of Nord Stream 2 are enormous. They include not only the vast economic losses related to the pipelines themselves, but also the heightened threat to transboundary infrastructure of all kinds: submarine internet cables, international pipelines for gas and hydrogen, transboundary power transmission, offshore wind farms, and more. The global transformation to green energy will require considerable transboundary infrastructure, including in international waters. Countries need to have full confidence that their infrastructure will not be destroyed by third parties. Some European countries have recently expressed concern over the safety of their offshore infrastructure. For all of these reasons, the investigation by the UN Security Council of the Nord Stream explosions is a high global priority.

The destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines required a very high degree of planning, expertise, and technological capacity. The Nord Stream 2 pipelines are a marvel of engineering. Each section of pipe is rolled steel of over 4 cm thickness, and with a pipeline internal diameter of 1.15 meters. The pipe is encased in concrete of 10.9 cm thickness. The weight of each section of concrete-encased pipe is 24 metric tons. The Nord Stream pipelines contain around 200,000 pipes. The pipelines sit on the sea floor. Destroying a pipeline of heavy rolled steel, encased in concrete, at the depth of 70-90 meters, requires highly advanced technologies for transportation of the explosives, diving to install the explosives, and detonation. To do so undetected, in the exclusive economic zones of Denmark and Sweden, adds greatly to the complexity of the operation. As a number of senior officials have confirmed, an action of this sort must have been carried out by a state-level actor.

Only a handful of state-level actors have both the technical capacity and access to the Baltic Sea to have carried out this action. A recent report by the Washington Post revealed that the intelligence agencies of the NATO countries have privately concluded that there is no evidence whatsoever that Russia carried out this action. This also comports with the fact that Russia had no obvious motive to carry out this act of terrorism on its own critical infrastructure. Indeed, Russia is likely to bear considerable expenses to repair the pipelines.

Three countries have reportedly carried out investigations of the Nord Stream terrorism: Denmark, Germany, and Sweden. These countries presumably know much about the circumstances of the terrorist attack. Sweden, in particular, which its divers investigated the crime scene. Yet Sweden has kept the results of its investigation secret from the rest of the world. Sweden has refused to share its findings with Russia, and turned down a joint investigation with Denmark and Germany. In the interest of global peace, the UN Security Council should require these countries to immediately turn over the results of their investigations to the UN Security Council.

There is only one detailed account to date of the Nord Stream destruction, the one recently put forward by investigative journalist Seymour Hersh, ostensibly based on information leaked to Hersh by an unnamed source. Hersh attributes the Nord Stream destruction to a decision ordered by US President Joe Biden and carried out by US agents in a covert operation that Hersh describes in detail. The White House has described Hershs account as completely and utterly false, but did not offer any information contradicting Hershs account and did not offer any alternative explanation.

Senior US officials made statements before and after the Nord Stream destruction that showed the US animus towards the pipelines. In January 2022, Under-Secretary of State Victoria Nuland tweeted, If Russia invades Ukraine, one way or another, Nord Stream 2 will not move forward. On February 7, President Biden said, "If Russia invades... again, then there will be longer Nord Stream 2. We will bring an end to it." When asked by the reporter how he would do that, he responded, "I promise you we will be able to do it." On September 30, 2022 immediately following the terrorist attack on the pipeline, Secretary of State Antony Blinken declared that the destruction of the pipeline is also a tremendous opportunity. Its a tremendous opportunity to once and for all remove the dependence on Russian energy. In January 2023, Under-Secretary Nuland declared to Senator Ted Cruz, "I am, and I think the administration is, very gratified to know that Nord Stream 2 is now, as you like to say, a hunk of metal at the bottom of the sea."

Such language is not at all appropriate in the face of international terrorism. I hope that the US together with all other Security Council members will condemn this heinous act of international terrorism and join together in an urgent UNSC-led investigation of this international crime in order to determine the truth. The truth is not yet known by the world, but it is knowable.

More than ever, the world depends on the UN Security Council to do its work to stop war. The world will be safe only when the permanent members work together diplomatically to solve global crises. The UN Security Council provides the unique global venue for that peace-affirming work. More than ever, we need a healthy, functioning UN Security Council carrying out the mission assigned to it by the UN Charter.

A UN Security Council objective investigation of the Nord Stream terrorism, in which all countries contribute what they know, is important for the global confidence in this body and most importantly, for global peace and sustainable development.

(The author is University Professor at Columbia University.)

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
SEOUL, South Korea  North Korean leader Kim Jong Un opened a major political conference dedicated to agriculture, state media reported Monday, as outside assessments suggest the country is facing a serious shortfall of food.

South Korean experts estimate that North Korea is short around 1 million tons of grain, nearly 20 percent of its annual demand, after the pandemic likely disrupted unofficial grain imports from China and the government has restricted food sales at markets.

Recent, unconfirmed reports in South Korean media have said that some North Koreans have died of hunger. But most experts have seen no indication of mass deaths or famine in North Korea.

During a high-level meeting of the ruling Workers Party that began Sunday, senior party officials reviewed last years work on state goals to accomplish rural revolution in the new era, the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

The report said that the plenary meeting of the partys Central Committee will identify immediate, important tasks on agricultural issues and urgent tasks arising at the present stage of the national economic development.

KCNA didnt say whether Kim spoke during the meeting or how long it would last. Senior officials such as Cabinet Premier Kim Tok Hun and Jo Yong Won, one of Kims closest aides who handles the Central Committees organizational affairs, also attended.

Plenary meetings are key decision-making venues for the Workers Party. In recent years, Kim has held a plenary meeting two to four times a year to formulate major policies.

It is the first time the party has convened a plenary session only to discuss agriculture. Mondays report didnt elaborate on its agenda, but the partys Politburo said earlier this month that a turning point is needed to dynamically promote radical change in agricultural development.

Most analysts say North Koreas food situation today is nowhere near the extremes of the 1990s, when hundreds of thousands of people died in a famine. However, some experts say its food insecurity is likely at its worst since Kim took power in 2011, after COVID-19 restrictions further shocked an economy battered by decades of mismanagement and crippling U.S.-led sanctions imposed over Kims nuclear program. Russias war on Ukraine possibly worsened the situation by driving up global prices of food, energy and fertilizer.

Its unclear whether North Korea will take any significant steps to address food shortages. The impoverished country devotes much of its scarce resources to its nuclear program.

To produce more grains, they should increase inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides and agricultural machines. But North Korea rarely comes up with such measures, said Nam Sung-wook, a professor at Korea University in South Korea. They have a limited budget. They can still take such steps (to produce more grain) with the money theyre spending on its missile development program.

North Korea has accelerated missile tests since last year, launching more than 70 missiles, many of them nuclear-capable weapons that place the U.S. mainland, South Korea and Japan within striking distance.

Nam said the current food problems dont pose a serious political threat to Kim, noting that his familys rule wasnt shaken even during the 1990s famine.

Last year, North Koreas grain production was estimated at 4.5 million tons, a 3.8% drop from a year earlier according to South Korean government assessments. The North was estimated to have produced between 4.4 million tons to 4.8 million tons of grain annually from 2012-2021, according to previous South Korean data.

North Korea needs about 5.5 million tons of grain to feed its 25 million people annually, so its short about 1 million tons this year. In past years, half of such a gap was usually met by unofficial grain purchases from China, with the rest remaining as unresolved shortfall, according to Kwon Tae-jin, a senior economist at the private GS&J Institute in South Korea.

Kwon says trade curbs due to the pandemic have likely hindered unofficial rice purchases from China. Efforts by North Korean authorities to tighten controls and restrict market activities have also worsened the situation, he said.

South Koreas Unification Ministry said the Norths current food shortage is more an issue of distribution than an absolute shortage, because much of the grain harvested last year has not been consumed yet.

Ministry officials said that the Norths food insecurity has worsened as authorities tightened controls over private grain sales in markets, instead trying to confine the grain trade to state-run facilities.

With the countrys factory and machinery sectors likely decimated by the border controls, Kim has been focusing on boosting grain production and reviving construction and other sectors that are less dependent on imported materials. Some experts say Kim likely aims to burnish his image as a leader who cares for public livelihoods as he seeks public support of his fight against U.S.-led sanctions and pressure campaigns.

Photos: Kim Jong Un's public appearances through the years
The two signed off on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland as Conservative Eurosceptics warned the devil is in the detail

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have struck a deal over the Northern Ireland Protocol, a senior UK government source has said.

The two signed off on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland as Conservative Eurosceptics warned the devil is in the detail.

Mr Sunak and Ms von der Leyen held final talks in Windsor, Berkshire, today before she will controversially go on to meet King Charles.

But even with long-awaited changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol agreed it is likely to be only the start of the most challenging week of Mr Sunaks premiership.

He is battling to win the support of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) so they agree to restore powersharing in Northern Ireland to get Stormont back up and running.

After arriving in London on the Eurostar earlier today, Ms von der Leyen said she was looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend.

More to follow
The jellies were branded as Runtz sweets. A small quantity has been seized and is being analysed by Forensic Science Ireland

Cannabis jellies known as 'Runtz' were consumed by the children

A number of children required hospital treatment in Dublin yesterday after consuming cannabis-infused edibles.

Gardai are conducting enquiries after the children, described as pre-teens, required hospital treatment following an incident at a residence in west Dublin on Sunday.

It is understood three children were involved, and a garda spokesperson said their condition is not life threatening after eating the cannabis jellies, which often appear in packaging designed to look like sweets.

Its understood the children became ill having consumed a product advertised as cannabis-infused edibles, the spokesperson said.

As this incident involves young persons no further information is available at this time.

The jellies were branded as Runtz sweets. A small quantity of this product has been seized and is being analysed by Forensic Science Ireland.

Jellies infused with cannabis or synthetic cannabis have become increasingly common in recent years.

Health authorities have previously issued strong warnings about such products.

In 2021, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) urged the public to be extremely vigilant to the dangers of inadvertent consumption, particularly by children, of cannabis edibles, products such as jelly sweets containing the psychoactive cannabis component known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
On 16 February, the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise hosted a seminar in Brussels, together with the Swedish Trade Unions Brussels Office and the Swedish EU Presidency. The topic of the seminar was the skills transition and pathways to a socially fair and competitive Europe. Among the speakers were Mattias Dahl, Deputy Director General at Swedish Enterprise, Johan Pehrson, Minister for Employment and Integration, and Joost Korte, Director General for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion.

In last years State of the Union Address, Commission president Ursula von der Leyen proclaimed that 2023 would be the European Year of Skills. This initiative, for which a legal act is currently being drafted, is meant to combat worrying trends noted in the European labor market  labour shortages, lack of competence in fundamental workforces and difficulties in attracting skilled third country nationals to the EU. By urging the member states to invest in professional education and upskilling, the Commission hopes to resolve the labor market situation. But how exactly will this transition occur? Who is responsible for making it happen? And what are the underlying reasons for investing in education and upskilling? All of this, and much more, was discussed during last weeks seminar, titled The skills transition  Pathways to a socially fair and more competitive Europe, co-hosted by the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise, the Swedish Trade Unions Brussels Office and the Swedish EU Presidency.

A recurring point of discussion was competitiveness. During his intervention, Minister Johan Pehrson pointed out that ensuring that the labor force has the right skills is key to securing European competitiveness. In this respect, the Minister spoke about the Swedish labor market model, particularly the recent labor market reform that has taken place in Sweden, through which a study grant has been made available for working professionals. This was applauded by Director General Joons Korte, who not only ensured that Sweden need not worry about interference with its labor market model, but also commended Sweden for its efforts to introduce the said study grant.

The Confederation of Swedish Enterprises Deputy Director General, Mattias Dahl, continued the topic of competitiveness during his intervention. Among other things, Dahl pointed out that it is important to ensure that the labor force is skilled in areas that are beneficial to the specific business in which they are working, and that ensuring this is a shared responsibility between the workers, employers and the government. Worrisome trends regarding high-level scientists were also discussed, where it was said that it is imperative for European competitiveness that Europe works to keep its talents from leaving the Union.

The Confederation of Swedish Enterprise thanks the Swedish Trade Unions Brussel Office and the Swedish EU Presidency, along with everyone else involved, for an interesting seminar!
A multi-vehicle accident in Jefferson County resulted in three people injured and five vehicles damaged Friday afternoon, according to a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) report. One of the vehicles caught fire.

According to the MSHP, four vehicles  a 2006 Chevrolet Impala, driven by Daniel J. Lohman, 48, of Fenton; a 2016 Chevrolet Cruze, driven by Danielle N. Siller, 31, of Defiance; a 2014 Honda Odyssey, driven by Daniel L. McAdams, 49, of High Ridge; and a 2010 GMC Yukon, driven by Sonja B. Turner, 61, of High Ridge  were stopped for a steady red traffic signal in the eastbound lane of Highway 30, west of Valley Dell Road.

The patrol reports a 2005 Chevrolet Aveo, driven by Paul R. Reheaume, 38, of House Springs, failed to keep a proper lookout and hit the rear of the Impala, which caused a chain reaction. The Impala struck the rear of the Cruze, which then struck the rear of the Odyssey, and then pushed the Odyssey into the Yukon. After the impact, the Aveo caught fire.

According to MSHP, three people were injured. Rheaume, along with passenger Sheila M. Tripp, 32, of Farmington, were reported to have sustained moderate injuries, and both were listed as not wearing seat belts at the time of the accident. The third injury was Lohman, who is listed to have sustained minor injuries, and as wearing a seat belt.

MSHP reports all five vehicles were damaged in the crash. The Aveo and Impala are listed as totaled, the Cruze's damage was listed as "extensive," the Odyssey's was listed as "moderate," and the Yukon's damage was listed as "minor."

The MSHP report shows that the Aveo did not have driver's insurance at the time of the accident.
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Advanced Polymer Coatings seals double tanker recoating deal with United Overseas Management

Advanced Polymer Coatings announces new deal with United Overseas Management (Hellas) to fully recoat two of its oil and chemical tankers.

AVON, OHIO headquartered manufacturer Advanced Polymer Coatings (APC) is announcing a new deal with United Overseas Management (Hellas) to fully recoat two of its oil and chemical tankers. APC will apply its MarineLINE protective tank coating to the 45,293 DWT UACC Mansouria and the 45,249 DWT UACC Marah. Both the vessels, which were built in South Korea in 2013, are equipped with 22 tanks that offer 27,500 sqm of cargo carrying space. MarineLINE was chosen as the tank coating during their construction and the recoating will maintain its high performance following a decade of service. The recoating work for the Greece based shipping group is due to take place over March and April this year in China. APC has built a strong relationship with Athens headquartered United Overseas, which operates a fleet of 22 vessels, including 16 Product and Chemical (PCT) cargo carrying tankers. In 2022 it completed two full recoating projects for the company, with MarineLINE applied to oil and chemical tankers NCC Messila and NCC Masafi. The work on those vessels, which were built in South Korea in 2012, was carried out at the Chengxi shipyard in China. Georgios Mitropoulos, APC Southeast Europe Sales Manager, signed the latest deals with United Overseas. He said: These projects follow on from the recoating work we delivered for United Overseas in 2022 and are testament to the working relationship we continue to build with the company. We work closely with them in order to support all their requirements. MarineLINE has been developed to protect tanks from thousands of highly aggressive chemicals. That chemical resistance and its flexibility, coupled with an ease of tank cleaning that creates quicker turnaround times, all played their part in United Overseas decision to chose APC to deliver the recoating projects. Georgios Mitropoulos added: The low absorption characteristics and the highly glossy surface of MarineLINE allow operators to reduce overall tank cleaning times. As well as a quicker turnaround, it also means a reduction in fuel consumption as well as being better for the environment. Those factors are a real plus for shipping operators and are becoming increasingly important to them.




Isle of Man Ship Registry strikes new deal with Singapore ship owner

The Isle of Man Ship Registry grows fleet and strikes new deal with Peninsula International Shipping PTE Ltd.

The Isle of Man Ship Registry (IOMSR) is growing its fleet and extending its relationship with Singapore-based ship owner Peninsula International Shipping PTE Ltd. The latest ship to join the register is the 12,113-tonne chemical tanker Peninsula XI. The vessel was formally delivered and registered to the IOMSR at a ceremony held at Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co Ltd in South Korea. The Peninsula XI joins two sister tankers operated by the Singapore company under the IOMSR flag, the Peninsula IX and Peninsula X. The new deal sees the IOMSR expand its offering further into Asia  a key market with two thirds of its fleet now managed in the region. Just in December the IOMSR announced it is joining the Singapore headquartered Asian Shipowners Association (ASA) to support its ASEAN operations. Cameron Mitchell, IOMSR director, welcomed the Peninsula XI to the Manx flag which represents almost a third of tonnage under the Red Ensign. He said: Were delighted that we can now build on our relationship with Peninsula International Shipping PTE Ltd and offer enhanced support and service through our representative in Singapore Captain Raja Ray. Vessel owners demand first-class levels of technical support and thats something we pride ourselves on  responding immediately whenever there are defects or issues with state control. Furthermore, we offer clients an easy, efficient, and competitive service - including low fees, with one annual payment and no stealth charges. In comparison, some open registries charge for almost all additional services. We continue to develop and lead. We were one of the first flag states to offer digital certificates. We were also the first flag state to offer a discount on registration fees for vessels using green technology and we were the first registry to launch a seafarer welfare app to support seafarers mental health. Captain Raja Ray is the Isle of Man Ship Registrys representative in Singapore. He said: On behalf of the IOMSR it was a pleasure to be asked and attend the delivery of the Peninsula XI the third Peninsula International Shipping PTE Ltd ship to be delivered from Hyundai Mipo Dockyard Co Ltd. A Peninsula International Shipping PTE Ltd spokesperson said: This agreement for IOMSR to add another of our vessels to its fleet is clear proof of the excellent partnership between our two organisations. We look forward to continuing this close working relationship for many years into the future.




JEFFERSON CITY  Top leaders in the Missouri Senate say a plan to expand Medicaid coverage for low-income mothers and their babies may be doomed because of abortion-related language attached to the measure.

Days after the Senate gave broad, bipartisan approval to a plan to offer health insurance coverage to mothers and babies for 12 months after a pregnancy, Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-Independence, said provisions added by a pair of conservative Republican senators puts the extension in jeopardy of receiving federal approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The language attempts to prohibit women who have abortions from receiving the extended benefits.

I dont know why youd throw a monkey wrench into something that expands medical coverage for new mothers for a year, Rizzo said. I dont know many people who could find things wrong with that.

Senate President Caleb Rowden, R-Columbia, agreed that the measure, which was given preliminary approval Tuesday, needs to be fixed.

The House has the ability to make changes they think are necessary, Rowden told reporters Thursday. Well see what it looks like when it comes back.

The measure, sponsored by Sen. Elaine Gannon, R-De Soto, and Sen. Tracy McCreery, D-Olivette, is part of a renewed, bipartisan effort to extend Medicaid coverage following the birth of a child as a way to help bolster positive health outcomes in both the infant and the new mom.

The state currently offers the government-funded insurance coverage for two months after a baby is born, but most acknowledge a longer coverage period could help address Missouris high maternal mortality rate.

An average of 61 women died each year between 2017 and 2019 while they were pregnant or within a year of their pregnancies, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said in a recent report.

The report added that three out of every four pregnancy-related deaths were preventable.

The extended coverage period has received heightened attention in the Republican-controlled General Assembly now that nearly all abortions are outlawed in Missouri after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June. The original plan has the backing of anti-abortion lobbying groups.

But, during debate on the floor, Sen. Mike Moon, R-Ash Grove, and Sen. Bill Eigel, a Weldon Spring Republican who is exploring a run for governor in 2024, successfully added language to prohibit postpartum benefits if a women has an abortion.

Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby, was among those saying the abortion prohibition would help the measure garner enough votes for passage.

But Rizzo and Rowden said the amended version of the bill is unlikely to pass federal muster in order to go into effect.

I dont believe CMS will take it that way, Rizzo said. What we do know for sure is what they will take. Thats what we should do.

He added that the situation is reminiscent of prior years when members of the conservative caucus held up budget-related legislation over the issues of Medicaid expansion and abortion.

Youre in a situation now where the super, super minority of the majority are again imposing their will on the rest of the body, Rizzo said. Unfortunately for us, it appears theyve won for now.

Along with the Senate bill, at least five similar initiatives have been introduced in the Missouri House, including one backed by House Majority Leader Jon Patterson, R-Lees Summit.

House Speaker Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, also supports the plan, giving Rowden hope that a clean version of the legislation will return to the Senate later this spring.

Rep. LaKeySha Bosley, D-St. Louis, who is sponsoring a version of the extension in the House, said she hopes the wrinkles can be ironed out in the House.

We all have a consensus that we want this to come out clean because, at the end of the day, were trying to lower our maternal mortality rate, Bosley said. I see this as an opportunity to negotiate.

On top of being backed by leaders in both chambers, Gov. Mike Parson also has made the issue a priority this year, putting $4.4 million into his budget proposal to implement a new maternal mortality prevention plan to provide support and address preventable deaths of expecting and postpartum mothers.

An estimated 4,565 women would have coverage extended if the bill passed. The proposal could cost $10.7 million by 2025, a legislative analysis of the measure noted.

I think were all worried about a program that I would argue 90% of both chambers really, really want, Rizzo said.

The legislation is Senate Bill 45.
In brief: For all the advanced, complicated ways that thieves can access the troves of sensitive data on our phones, the simplest method remains the most effective: discover a victim's passcode before physically stealing the handset. A number of these crimes have taken place recently with iPhone users being the main targets, leading to a response from Apple.

The Wall Street Journal's Joanna Stern reported on the spate of iPhone thefts that have resulted in victims being locked out of their accounts. There have also been instances of money being stolen via cash apps, ID theft, Apple Pay being used, and more.

The victims said their iPhones were stolen while socializing, usually at bars. Working in groups, the criminals would befriend targets and ask them to open an app such as Snapchat on their phones, attempting to observe their password as it's being entered. Sometimes, another gang member would discreetly video the password as the user taps the screen. Once they have the code, the iPhone would be stolen and all its contents accessible.

Not all the crimes happened this way. Some victims were physically assaulted and forced into handing over their phones and passcodes. There were also cases of people being drugged, waking up the next morning with no phone or memory of the previous night.

Knowing someone's passcode grants criminals full access to an iPhone; it can even be used to bypass TouchID or FaceID. Thieves can use the codes to reset someone's Apple ID password, locking victims out of their accounts if they try to access them from a different device. They can also turn off Find My iPhone, preventing it from being located or someone deleting its contents via iCloud. Apple ID contact information can also be changed, and recovery keys set up. As The WSJ notes, Apple's policies don't allow users to regain access to their account if a recovery key is enabled and they can't produce it.

Some victims reported that their apps had been accessed using iCloud Keychain - one person had more than $10,000 transferred from their bank accounts. Thieves were also able to use two-factor authentication when required. There were even cases of Apple credit cards being opened in victims' names and accruing thousands of dollars by finding the phone owner's last four digits of their Social Security number in photos.

We also have suggestions for Apple, including



"' Add extra protection to iOS to change an Apple ID password

"' Add stronger password protection to iCloud keychain

"' Add additional account recovery options



(6/7) --- Joanna Stern (@JoannaStern) February 24, 2023

Apple responded to The Wall Street Journal report by noting that "security researchers agree that iPhone is the most secure consumer mobile device, and we work tirelessly every day to protect all our users from new and emerging threats."

"We sympathize with users who have had this experience and we take all attacks on our users very seriously, no matter how rare," said a spokesperson. "We will continue to advance the protections to help keep user accounts secure."

There are several recommendations for avoiding becoming a victim of this crime: use FaceID or TouchID whenever possible, switch to an alphanumeric passcode that's harder to decipher while it's being entered, and if you do have to type in a code, try to hide the screen with your other hand.
What just happened? Finnish telecoms giant Nokia has announced that the company is rebranding and, for the first time in almost six decades, changing its logo. The move is part of a strategy to disassociate Nokia from smartphones, which it hasn't made in around ten years.

On the eve of Barcelona's Mobile World Congress, Nokia announced a new corporate logo that is made up of five different shapes to form the company's name. The famous blue-colored lettering of old has been replaced in favor of a range of colors that change depending on the use.

Chief Executive Pekka Lundmark told Reuters, "There was the association to smartphones and nowadays we are a business technology company."

Nokia hasn't made smartphones since the Nokia Lumia 1020 in 2013, the year before Microsoft bought its mobile phone business - and we know how that turned out. Microsoft sold its Nokia-branded feature phone business to HMD Global in 2016.

Because of a long-term licensing agreement between the companies, phones carrying the Nokia name manufactured by HMD Global have been around since 2017 and are still being released today. The Nokia G22, a phone designed to be easily repairable thanks to repair guides and tools produced alongside iFixit, was announced yesterday. The battery can be swapped out in five minutes, and replacing the screen is supposedly possible in about 20 minutes.

"In most people's minds, we are still a successful mobile phone brand, but this is not what Nokia is about," Lundmark told Bloomberg. The CEO said that Nokia wants to launch a new brand focused on networks and industrial digitalization, "which is completely different from the legacy mobile phones."

Nokia hopes to increase its market share when it comes to serving wireless service providers with network equipment, something that should be easier now that Huawei is prohibited from selling its 5G networking gear to many countries. But Nokia's main focus will be selling equipment to private companies, an area that made up 8% of its revenue last year, or around 2 billion euros (roughly $2.11 billion). Lundmark said Nokia's aim is to take that figure into double digits as quickly as possible.
In brief: Chinese companies are getting ready for more import restrictions from the US, the Netherlands, and Japan by stockpiling chipmaking equipment, components, spare parts, and materials. Sources say some firms have filled several warehouses with items in preparation for additional sanctions.

Last month brought news that the Netherlands and Japan had reached an agreement with the US to impose restrictions on the export of advanced chip-manufacturing tools to China, though the sensitivity of the deal meant details have not been announced.

The South China Morning Post reports that news of the agreement has seen China's biggest semiconductor firms racing to stockpile chipmaking gear in preparation for more restrictions on advanced equipment. According to a source involved in the industry's supply chain, one Beijing firm "filled several large warehouses" with materials and components. Some of the items are not even on the US export control list.

An unnamed Tokyo source who purchases Japanese products for Chinese customers confirmed some companies are overbuying components and equipment over fears of tighter export restrictions down the road - this is despite Tokyo not starting the process yet. Japanese companies are waiting for guidance on the new rules, which are expected to come into effect this April.

Dutch giant ASML, the world's largest supplier of lithography machines used in the chipmaking process, was already prohibited from selling its most advanced extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography equipment, which costs about $164 million per unit, to Chinese customers as it cannot obtain an export license from the Dutch government due to pressure from the United States. Following the three-nation agreement, ASML is also prohibited from selling at least some of its older deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography tools to Chinese clients.

The US has tightened chip-related sanctions on China over the last 12 months. Restrictions introduced in October are designed to cap the country's logic chips at the 14-nanometre node, DRAM at 18nm, and 3D NAND flash at 128 layers. The US says this will prevent its rival from developing semiconductors for military applications, including supercomputers, nuclear weapons modeling, and hypersonic weapons. The restrictions are also having a major impact on the Made in China 2025 plan for lessening the nation's reliance on foreign chipmakers.
Singapore is developing into a hub for chipmakers, and related suppliers as Western chipmakers seek to expand production in the city-state to meet rising demand and mitigate supply chain risks.

Soitec, a French manufacturer of substrates, and Applied Materials, a US semiconductor manufacturing equipment maker, are growing their production in Singapore to improve relations with Asian customers and anticipate potential growth, Nikkei Asia reports.

Chipmakers in Singapore Double Down on Investments

Soitec

Soitec is investing 400 million euros ($430 million) to double the production capacity of its wafer plant in Singapore, which produces silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafers, according to the same report.

The expansion will double the plant's 300-millimeter SOI wafer capacity to 2 million units per year and add 45,000 square meters of floor space, including office space, to the plant.

The Straits Times reported in December that Soitec CEO Pierre Barnabe indicated that the project is a response to the high demand for 300mm silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafers, which are utilized in 5G communication devices such as smartphones and electric vehicles.

This expansion is part of a 1.1 billion five-year program of capital expenditures, including increased production in Bernin, France. By 2026, the company intends to expand its global annual production capacity to approximately 4.5 million wafers.

The Business Times reported that Pierre Barnabe is optimistic about the company's outlook, stating that the current semiconductor slowdown is not impacting the key markets that Soitec's specialized, energy-efficient wafers serve.

He believes that as these products add more features and increase their technological capabilities, they will require more energy-efficient chips to power them; consequently, the demand for their wafers will remain stable.

Applied Materials

Applied Materials has begun construction on a new $600 million Singapore dollar ($450 million) facility in Tampines with a total floor space of 65,000 square meters, including office space.

Read Also: AMD Expands 5G Telco Market Leadership with New High-Performance and Adaptive Computing Products and Testing Services at MWC 2023

The company will increase its Singapore workforce by approximately 40% to more than 3,500 employees. The new facility is integral to Applied Materials' eight-year expansion plan termed "Singapore 2030". It is aimed to meet the growing demand of its primary customers, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC).

"Applied Materials is a longstanding partner for Singapore in advancing manufacturing and innovation in our semiconductor equipment industry," Dr. Beh Swan Gin, Chairman of Singapore's Economic Development Board, said in a statement.

"We strongly welcome the company's 'Singapore 2030' plan, which will deepen Singapore's role as a critical node in the global semiconductor supply chain," the economic board chair added.

Singapore Improves Position in Chip Industry

Singapore is already home to Applied Materials' largest production facility outside the United States. The city-state offers efficient logistics that mesh well with Taiwan, South Korean, and Japanese customers.

Nikkei reports that 7% of Singapore's gross domestic product is attributed to the semiconductor industry. The government strives to draw in more chip-related companies by offering tax breaks, land, and research and development support.

Finally, due to its relatively neutral geopolitical stance, Singapore is less likely to be affected by any conflict between the United States and China. Its location in Southeast Asia also allows for supply-chain diversity.

Related Article: Japan, Netherlands, and US Unite to Restrict Exports of Chip-Manufacturing Equipment to China

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ChatGPT's remarkable development has fueled worries that artificial intelligence (AI) might reinvent employment, search engines, and schools. Yet, as per digital artists, fiber arts seems to be one field immune to the computerization trend.

According to The Guardian, some TikTok users have used ChatGPT to draft crochet designs with "cursed" outcomes pushing emerging AI's limits.

'Crochet Monstrosity'

TikTok user Alexandra Woolner, a longtime knitter and newbie crocheter, came up with the idea to utilize ChatGPT to create a plush animal in January, originally commissioning it to draft instructions for a narwhal.

The use of abbreviations and punctuation to denote the production process in a standard crochet design makes it reminiscent of coding in certain ways. The letters "ch" and "sc" stand for "chain" and "single crochet," respectively. Although brackets [] are used to separate iterative phases in the instructions, an asterisk (*) indicates that the step in question should be repeated.

Woolner was pleased that ChatGPT delivered thorough instructions that followed a pattern. After carefully following the instructions, they ended up with an "AI-generated narwhal crochet monstrosity." Woolner acknowledged the product's troubling anatomical details but praised the language-learning algorithm for coming up with a pattern that resulted in a marine monster.

It appears incorrect and ugly but incredibly attractive, as per many who have seen it.

Woolner claims that the video has received unprecedented attention online, with over 900,000 views on the original and thousands more on subsequent posts. As one commenter put it, "There are some things AI cannot steal."

Human-Machine Collaboration

Woolner is one of many designers thinking about how ChatGPT may be used in conjunction with crochet.

London-based crocheter Lily Lanario was encouraged to investigate crochet-related ChatGPT applications since the centuries-old craft has so far eluded mechanical reproduction due to its unpredictable and free-flowing stitches.

She stated she wanted to study human-machine collaboration in a realm computers cannot yet take.

Lanario had ChatGPT create many designs, some more successful than others, including a cat, a duck, and a Pikachu. She said that the program was able to fix poorly drafted designs by revising the directions when she requested modifications like new colors or the addition of a missing body part.

See Also: ChatGPT-Powered Smart Home Voice Assistant May Hit Market Soon

ChatGPT's Weakness

Jessica Newman, head of UC Berkeley's Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity's AI security effort, said crochet patterns are harder for the computer to comprehend than words since they involve numbers.

ChatGPT is a huge language model of artificial intelligence that predicts the next words in human conversation by training on massive text datasets. Numbers are complex for these tools. Apparently, math is ChatGPT's weakness.

Newman noted that generative AI systems do not grasp any context. They are only guessing what should come next.

See Also: China Changes Stance On AI Only Days After Blocking ChatGPT

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On Sunday morning, Feb. 26, an unmanned Russian Soyuz space capsule successfully docked with the International Space Station (ISS), reaching the end of its two-day journey from Kazakhstan, Phys.org reports.

The MS-23 Soyuz capsule autonomously latched to the ISS and will eventually return three astronauts whose original return vehicle was damaged by a tiny meteorite.

After Delay, 3 Astronauts Can Finally Come Back Home

As shown by live video from ISS partner NASA, the Soyuz capsule has successfully completed its mission. It will return in September with astronaut Frank Rubio and cosmonauts Dmitry Petelin and Sergei Prokopyev.

MS-22 brought the three astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) in September last year. Initially, they were only supposed to stay for about six months, until the end of March.

Mid-December, however, their capsule began leaking coolant after being struck by a tiny space rock, according to US and Russian officials.

In December 2022, the astronauts' return was delayed when a meteoroid struck the Soyuz crew capsule and punctured the exterior radiator, releasing coolant into space. Roscosmos's official statement provides information about the December incident.

People in Space

Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, decided to send MS-23 to replace the damaged vessel, but without the vessel's crew of three.

Read Also: Researchers Find Evidence of New Layer to Earth That Could Explain Magnetic Field

Rubio, Petelin, and Prokopyev will spend nearly a year in space without a replacement. The damaged MS-22 will depart the space station without passengers in late March and return to Earth.

Six people are currently on board the International Space Station (ISS), including NASA astronauts Nicole Mann and Josh Cassada, Russian Anna Kikina, and Japan's Koichi Wakata, who arrived on a SpaceX spacecraft in October.

Next week, they will be joined by crew members of the Crew-6 mission, including two Americans, an Emirati, and a Russian, who will also travel aboard a SpaceX capsule that is anticipated to take off on Monday from Florida.

Crew-5 would return to Earth after a few days of overlap, leaving the ISS with six people on board. MS-23's docking with the ISS represents the resumption of international cooperation and scientific space research.

The International Space Station

The International Space Station (ISS) is a one-of-a-kind laboratory in space, allowing astronauts to conduct research on various topics, including physical and biological sciences and technology development.

The presence of astronauts on the International Space Station also allows for the testing and validating technologies for future human space exploration missions, such as those planned for the Moon and Mars.

NASA documents indicate that future moon-related experiments will involve a microscope that could operate on the lunar surface, examining space station bacteria that could keep astronauts healthy on the moon, and an experimental high-speed communications system.

International cooperation in space is critical to the continued success of the ISS and other space missions. Collaboration among countries and entities has enabled sharing of expertise, knowledge, and resources required for space exploration and research.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: [WATCH] NASA, ESA's Solar Orbiter Catches Mercury Traveling Across the Face of the Sun

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Excessive screen time may harm young people's mental health, according to an expert who has voiced concern about the trend in the US.

In an episode of One Nation with Brian Kilmeade on Fox News, Kilmeade and Dr. Drew Pinsky spoke about how social media has contributed to a rise in bullying in schools.

Reduced Internet Time Improves Mental Health

According to a Fox News report, Kilmeade cited research that found teens who spent less time online also had better psychological health. He wondered whether the rise in bullying incidents was attributable to the prevalence of smartphones and video recording devices or if people were just getting "more cruel."

In his opinion, though, it is pretty impossible to tell.

"We don't know, are the algorithms serving this stuff up to us because we looked at it once, or is this really happening? My suspicion is it's really happening. It is sad. If someone is manifesting that kind of aggression, they have to be dealt with a high degree of containment to help them - not to hurt the individual, to help them."

Kilmeade added, "You're not allowed to ask anything of anybody, so you can't tell an addict, for instance, who's dying of their progressive disease to come with me, or don't sleep there, or maybe you might want to try something else. You can't say anything to anybody, and that harms people so much."

Another research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that between 2011 and 2021, the number of adolescent females feeling gloomy or hopeless rose from 36% to 57%. Meanwhile, the rate of teenage boys rose from 21% to 29%.

Dr. Pinsky agreed that mental health is strengthened when one uses technology less.

He predicted that in ten years, people would see mobile phones the same way as they formerly viewed cigarettes.

Also Read: How Video Games Help Cope With Mental Illness; Best Titles for Better Mental Health

Congress Addresses Link Between Mental Health and Social Media

The apparent link between social media usage and mental health is another issue that Congress is seeking to address.

The Senate Judiciary Committee convened a hearing earlier in February titled "Protecting Our Children Online" to discuss the need to keep children safe when using the internet.

Connecticut Democrat Richard Blumenthal and Tennessee Republican Marsha Blackburn have promised to act promptly to combat Big Tech's continuing damage to kids.

Kilmeade questioned Dr. Pinsky on his opinion of a bill introduced by Republican Missouri senator Josh Hawley to protect children when they use social media.

"I have lots of friends that actually specialize in screens for adolescents, and they all do the same thing with their kids," said Dr. Pinsky. "Limit [social media use] to an hour, max two hours a day."

Also Read: Signal Threatens To Leave UK if Online Safety Bill Impairs End-to-End Encryption

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OpenAI's ChatGPT chatbot has been used by more than half of the US companies surveyed, a recent report suggests.

According to a poll of 1000 company executives conducted by Resumebuilder.com, approximately half of these companies have reported replacing certain employees with artificial intelligence (AI).

AI Usage Across Industries

Even though AI tech is only beginning to be used in businesses, employees need to undoubtedly think about how it may alter the obligations of their present job, said Stacie Haller, Chief Career Adviser at Resumebuilder.com.

Based on the responses to this study, it seems that companies are considering using ChatGPT to standardize some aspects of their workforce.

Since its release in November 2022, ChatGPT has attracted attention due to its ability to simplify many professional tasks. These include code development, copywriting, customer service, and summarizing lengthy documents.

Related Story: Crochet Creators Request Patterns From ChatGPT: Can AI Take Over Fiber Arts or Are the Designs Too Weird?

Despite Potential Dangers

In a report by Interesting Engineering, questions have been raised concerning the fairness and accuracy of ChatGPT.

Others have voiced concerns about the potential dangers of investing too much in AI technology. Even OpenAI President Sam Altman has cautioned against the usage of ChatGPT for anything significant.

A tech journalist for the New York Times, Kevin Roose, recently had a two-hour chat with Microsoft's new AI-driven Bing search engine, powered by ChatGPT, and he expressed his reservations about the "unhinged" replies the system gave him.

Despite various concerns, most company executives seem pleased with ChatGPT's performance; 55% have rated it as "excellent" in terms of its work quality.

The poll found that almost all ChatGPT users had seen financial benefits, with 48% reporting savings of more than $50,000 and 11% reporting savings of more than $100,000.

Future Impact

How businesses' expanding usage of ChatGPT and other AI technologies will affect employees and job-seekers is an open question.

ResumeBuilder.com Chief Career Advisor Stacie Haller said that the business model for using ChatGPT is shifting. She is curious to see how this pans out regarding cost savings and personnel reallocation.

While ChatGPT has not already eliminated human employment, 93% of current users want to increase their AI utilization, and 90% of executives think it is a good experience for job searchers.

Some in the corporate world fear that layoffs may increase as a result of ChatGPT.

When asked whether ChatGPT would result in any layoffs by the end of 2023, about 33% of company leaders said "certainly," and 26% said "probably."

The ultimate purpose of AI chatbots like ChatGPT may be unclear, but their adoption is rising across industries.

Related Story: ChatGPT-Powered Smart Home Voice Assistant May Hit Market Soon

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As the tech giant gears up to defend itself against regulatory scrutiny, Google is in the process of hiring a team of former lawyers from the Department of Justice itself, The Washington Post reports.

In a pair of pending lawsuits, the Department of Justice aims to break up Google's dominant position in the search engine market. Meanwhile, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) challenges other Big Tech companies, such as Facebook parent company Meta and Microsoft. And it appears that the industry is winning so far.

Curtailing Big Tech Influence

The Biden administration is eager to reduce the impact of tech giants like Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon on the digital economy. In fact, President Biden prioritized antitrust as soon as he took office in early 2021.

According to a joint report from the Federal Trade Commission and the DOJ antitrust division, a chartbuster of 3,520 transactions underwent antitrust review in 2021, a 115% increase from 1,637 in the fiscal year 2020.

Additionally, the administration's attempts to rein in Big Tech have shifted from Congress to the country's courtrooms as regulatory agencies prepare for a battle against Google and other major tech companies.

Some of these measures would prohibit companies like Google from using their platforms to promote their own products or from restricting consumers from competing services. The future of such legislation is uncertain, given the industry's lobbying campaign that prevented it from becoming law.

Despite this, the antitrust package faces obstacles due to the intense lobbying of tech players.

Google's Ad Empire Under Scrutiny

A lawsuit brought by the Department of Justice and eight states seeks to dismantle Google's lucrative ad business, while a 2020 lawsuit brought by former President Trump alleges that online search has been monopolized and will go to trial later this year.

The DOJ's lawsuit, the second against Google in the last two years, claims that the tech juggernaut is illegally leveraging its position to acquire so-called "high-tech tools used by publishers, advertisers, and brokers" to power its ad empire and stifle competition.

Blocking Mergers and Acquisitions

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is pursuing lawsuits against Meta, the parent company of Facebook, and other tech companies to prevent mergers and acquisitions that they believe could hurt competition.

Read Also: Student Arrested for Aggravated Battery After Attacking Employee Over Nintendo Switch

The agency is also attempting to rewrite federal antitrust enforcement regulations, arguing that the current rules are too narrow and do not adequately address the challenges posed by Big Tech.

In response, the industry is lobbying against antitrust legislation and hiring lawyers to prep for legal disputes. Google has dismissed the allegations made by the DOJ and vowed to defend itself in court. Facebook, Meta, and other tech companies have also resisted regulatory efforts to break up their businesses.

Microsoft plans to fight the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) decision to block its $75 billion bid for Activision Blizzard. The company will most likely use its position as an industry underdog as an argument.

Meanwhile, The FTC's fight against tech giants recently hit a roadblock when Meta successfully acquired Within, a developer of virtual reality (VR) workout apps.

The withdrawal of the FTC from the case represents a significant setback for the agency under the leadership of Lina Khan, a notable critic of Big Tech.

Opinions differ on the probable outcome of these legal battles. The courts may be receptive to new antitrust arguments, especially in light of growing concerns regarding the influence of Big Tech. Others contend that judges may not be persuaded if new legislation is not passed to support the theories of the antitrust agenda.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Google Ads Promote Services Run by Anti-Abortion Groups to Pregnant Women, Investigation Claims

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The Chinese tech giant Xiaomi released its first flagship smartphone to the rest of the world, joining the competition with Apple and Samsung in the high-end segment.

After debuting in China in December 2022, the Xiaomi 13 and 13 Pro are now making their way to markets outside China!

The manufacturer is placing much faith in the device's one-inch primary sensor, Leica optics, and 120W rapid charging. This is meant to compete with Samsung's Galaxy S line of smartphones.

Camera Quality

When it comes to taking pictures, TechCrunch said Xiaomi relies on a huge one-inch Sony IMX989 50-megapixel camera with f/1.9 aperture for the best and brightest results. The camera can capture video at 8K resolution or 4K resolution at 60 fps in Dolby Vision.

A 50-megapixel "floating lens" telephoto camera is available, providing 3.2x optical zoom. The gadget features an additional ultrawide sensor that is 50 megapixels in size. The 13 Pro's front camera is 32 megapixels and has both a night mode and dual-framing (0.8x and 1x) capabilities.

A large square enclosure on the rear holds all those cameras and Leica lenses. While square camera bumps are not uncommon, this one stands out due to its massive size.

Read Also: Nokia Brings Durability Back to Smartphones With Latest Showcase at MWC 2023

Other Features

Except for the camera, the Xiaomi 13 Pro's specs are typical for a 2023 Android flagship.

It has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 CPU, 6.73-inch WQHD+ AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate, 1,900 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG HDR compatibility, 12GB LPDDR5X Memory, and USF 4.0 storage.

A unique 120W charger charges Xiaomi's current flagship's 4,820 mAh battery in minutes. These charging bricks are massive. The gadget offers 50W wireless charging with compatible pucks and 10W reverse charging for rapid earbud recharge.

The 13 Pro comes in ceramic white and black with 256GB and 512GB storage. It starts at 1,200 ($1,373) in Europe on Mar. 8. Together with the new flagship, Xiaomi released the 999 ($1,056) Xiaomi 13 and 499 ($527) Xiaomi 13 Lite.

High-End Smartphone Market

Xiaomi has encountered several challenges, including a weakening Chinese economy.

IDC reported 1.21 billion smartphone shipments in 2022, the lowest since 2013. Its smartphone sales fell 26% in the same year, as well.

According to Canalys, high-end smartphones costing over $800 made up 18% of the handset market in 2022, up from 11% in 2020. Xiaomi's entry into the premium market will place it against Apple and Samsung, a challenge for the Chinese challenger. Canalys projected 92% of the high-end market in 2022 was Samsung and Apple.

"Competing with Apple and Samsung is incredibly difficult. Not just matching [market-leading] products, but particularly going up against enormous companies with exceptional brand awareness, high-end perceptions, [experience-focused] solutions and product ecosystems with high user-stickiness," Canalys research analyst Runar Bjrhovde told CNBC.

Read Also: Sony Xperia 5 V Specs Revealed: 16 GB RAM, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, and More

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A recent classified intelligence report provided by the U.S. Energy Department to the White House and key members of Congress indicates that the Covid-19 pandemic most likely originated from a laboratory leak, the Wall Street Journal reports.

This report is an update to a 2021 document and notes a change in the Energy Department's stance. The agency was previously undecided on how the virus emerged.

COVID-19 Origin Traced to China Lab Leak

The WSJ report notes that different segments of the intelligence community have reached divergent conclusions regarding the origin of the pandemic, as highlighted by the updated info.

The Energy Department now concurs with the Federal Bureau of Investigation that the virus likely spread through a laboratory accident in China. Four other agencies and a national intelligence panel believe it was probably the result of natural transmission, while two remain undecided.

In 2021, the FBI concluded with "moderate confidence" that the pandemic was likely the result of a lab leak and still maintains this position. According to those who have read the classified report, the Energy Department made its decision with "low confidence."

The conclusion of the Energy Department is based on new intelligence. It is significant due to the agency's extensive scientific expertise and oversight of a network of U.S. national laboratories, some of which conduct advanced biological research.

Read Also: White House Reverses Telehealth Policy for Some Controlled Drugs, Requiring In-person Evaluations

Officials from the United States declined to elaborate on the new intelligence and analysis that prompted the Energy Department to change its position. The Energy Department and the FBI concur that an unintended lab leak is the most likely scenario, but for different reasons.

Three Years Later, COVID Origin Still Doubtful

The update highlights that intelligence officials are still piecing together how COVID-19 emerged. The pandemic that began over three years ago has claimed the lives of over 6 million people worldwide.

According to the updated report that WSJ cites, the National Intelligence Council conducts long-term strategic analysis. Four agencies, which officials declined to identify, continue to have "low confidence" that the virus originated through natural transmission from an infected animal.

Officials from the Central Intelligence Agency and another agency are still undecided between the lab leak and natural transmission theories.

Despite divergent analyses, the update reaffirmed the intelligence community's consensus that Covid-19 was not the result of a Chinese biological weapons program.

The Chinese government, which restricts World Health Organization investigations, has denied that the virus could have escaped from one of its labs and suggested that it originated outside China.

President Biden has ordered the entire intelligence community to devote resources to determining as much as possible about the pandemic's origins. However, there is "diversity of opinion within the intelligence community," and some officials have stated that they lack sufficient information.

Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) stated on NBC on Sunday that Congress must hold extensive hearings on the pandemic's origins and that China has attempted to intimidate other nations into not questioning whether the virus emerged naturally.

Elon Musk Reacts

Elon Musk has reacted with disbelief to the news that the U.S. Energy Department has concluded that the Covid-19 pandemic most likely arose from a laboratory leak.

In a tweet posted on Feb. 27, Musk expressed his shock at the news, writing: "What!? No way."

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Singapore Reports First Death Likely Linked to COVID-19 Vaccination

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At Microsoft's recent Ignite conference, the company teased the new Windows 12 user interface (UI) with a screenshot that left viewers in awe. This screenshot of a redesigned UI was displayed to illustrate the Microsoft Teams Application, and the image has prompted speculation about what Windows 12 could look like.

A Look at the New UI: A Mockup of Low-Quality Screenshot

The illustration gives a glimpse into the new UI, showing features such as a floating taskbar at the bottom of the screen with system icons in the right corner, a floating search field in the center of the screen, and weather in the upper left corner.

According to the story by Giz China, unfortunately, the screenshot was of low quality, so Windows Central revealed a mockup of the UI to help illustrate what they believed they saw.

A Glimpse at What May Be in Microsoft's Upcoming Windows 12: Codenamed 'NextValley'

Windows Central-the go-to source for breaking news on upcoming Windows releases-claims to have seen a similar prototype in an internal presentation, leading them to draw similarities to what is seen in the image.

Additionally, Windows 12 is codenamed NextValley, leaving Microsoft fans wondering what new features the highly-anticipated release will bring. The screenshot can be seen in a tweet by Fire Cube Studios.

Making Windows UI Accessible for All Devices and Inputs

Ultimately, while the UI screenshot is not an exact representation of what will come with the new OS, it offers a glimpse and a statement of what the Microsoft teams hope to accomplish with the upcoming Windows 12. Watch for more news on Windows 12 and its features as the code nears its estimated launch date in 2024.

Microsoft has been attempting to make its Windows UI as user-friendly as possible for everyone, whether for those using touch controls or keyboard and mouse inputs, for years now.

An Accurate Vibe of Windows 12's Potential Feature Set

With so many different versions of Windows available, it can be a struggle for Microsoft to find the perfect balance. But with the release of Windows 12, Microsoft is attempting to rise to this challenge and provide a UI that can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter their preference.

Recently during a Microsoft conference, an image was revealed that, although it's not the latest build of Windows 12, gives fans a good idea of the potential for the future of the Windows UI.

Read Also: Microsoft Accidentally Offers Windows 11 Upgrade to Ineligible Devices

Balancing Current User Base Satisfaction and Progression Toward a More Modern and User-Friendly Experience

This image is a welcome change after Windows 8's focus on touch-based interactions, Windows 10's attempt to make peace with the keyboard and mouse, and Windows 11's lack of large-scale change. Microsoft is now attempting to balance the needs of its current user base with its determination to progress and move forward.

Many people are excited to see the changes that Microsoft has in store with its new UI, but others worry that such changes could alienate users already used to the current Windows layout. Only time can tell if they can balance current user base satisfaction and progress toward a more modern and user-friendly experience.

Related Article: Google Chrome is Working on Double-Click Mouse Shortcut For Faster Tab Closing

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The US Department of Commerce recently announced an update to its list of goods subject to restrictions on supplies to Russia and Belarus. This list contains a wide range of items, including those that cost over $300, such as smartphones and printers, and those that cost over $100, like dishwashers, electronic scales, and vacuum cleaners.

Impact of US Restrictions on Russian and Belarusian Companies

According to the story by Giz China, this decision is significant as it will significantly impact the trade between the US and Russia. The US Department of Commerce recently added more items to the list of goods subject to restricting supplies to Russia and Belarus.

These restrictions will lead to difficult times for companies in Russia and Belarus, who rely on imported goods to run their business. The restrictions are part of a series of measures imposed by the US government in response to human rights abuses and election interference by Russia.

Restrictions on Exported Electronics and Technological Devices

As seen on the Russian site RBC, the restricted items include smartphones and printers costing over $300, air conditioners and refrigerators costing over $750, dishwashers, electronic scales, vacuum cleaners, sound recording and reproducing equipment, and TVs that are over $100, and also microwave ovens and coffee makers.

To obtain these products, businesses may look for alternative suppliers and/or shell out more money to obtain an export license. This could further affect the economy of the countries as prices may have to be incremented to offset the cost of the license. However, the restrictions are not all-inclusive.

Allowing for Certain Humanitarian Projects and Foreign Investments Despite Supply Restrictions

There are exceptions where equipment can still be supplied for humanitarian purposes or used by foreign companies leaving Russia and/or Belarus. This allows for certain humanitarian projects and foreign investments in the country to still benefit from the availability of certain goods.

Ultimately, the restrictions imposed by the US government on supplies to Russia and Belarus are a significant decision that could considerably impact businesses in the region, as explained further in an article by Ixbt.

Read Also: Hackers Strike on Anniversary of Ukraine Invasion, Deface Russian Websites

Implications of US Government Restrictions on Supplies to Russia and Belarus

Companies may have to rethink their supply chain or bear the brunt of additional costs to continue obtaining these goods. However, these restrictions do exempt certain activities that promote the welfare of the people or facilitate foreign investments in the country.

The updated list of restricted items from the US Department of Commerce will likely significantly impact the economies of Russia and Belarus as access to items like smartphones, refrigerators, and dishwashers become more expensive and difficult.

The US government's decision to impose restrictions on supplies to Russia and Belarus will majorly impact businesses and consumers. It remains to be seen how things will unfold in the near future, but this decision will have wide-ranging implications for the trade between the two countries.

Related Article: Russian Military Engineer May Trade Hypersonic Missiles Secrets to US for Asylum

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The latest campaign of the Mountain View-based tech company in Super Bowl 2023 talks about the "Pixel Value," with Google underlining this to the public in their latest ads. It centers on Pixel being the priority in the company's developments and updates on the smartphone operating system, Android, despite it being open-sourced.

Google's move is to empower the Pixel series and tell the world that it is the go-to device for all Android needs, especially if one wants to get ahead of the trend and features coming to the world.

What is the 'Pixel Value' from Google's Latest Campaign?

(Photo : Google Store)

The latest Pixel Value campaign is up on Google's website dedicated to the smartphone, and it boasts of all the features and functions people find on the device, as well as why you should consider this for your next device.

Google said that users may get what they paid for on getting the Pixel as their next device, boasting of its features including water and dust resistance, recycled aluminum finish, and Gorilla Glass.

The company detailed the many features available on the Google Pixel, including the latest releases that were released via Android.

This also comes alongside Google's latest ad campaign released on the Super Bowl about the "Magic Eraser" for media, already available for Pixel devices for a long time.

Read Also: Google Pixel Fold Leaks: Features a Larger Battery, Significantly Heavier than Samsung's Z Fold

Android to Prioritize Pixel on its Releases Among All

With the many features available, Google emphasized that Pixel devices will be the first to get the Android developments and updates present in the market.

It is only fitting as Google owns Android and may do as they please with the smartphone operating system, giving Pixel an edge over the competition.

Google's Pixel and Android Development

Google made it clear for all that its Pixel lineup would be the first to get the anticipated Android updates since the company released its smartphone series to the world. It is only fitting as the Pixel is Google's featured device which also works closely with its Android department, to get the latest tech there is for the smartphone.

The latest Pixel to Google's development is the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro which were released on late 2022 to deliver the updated smartphone from the company. It featured the Google-made Silicon SoC's second-generation Tensor, centering on the company's smartphone development to deliver the latest tech offered for its portable device.

Android updates first drop on Pixel smartphones before others, with the native OS powering all of its functions and interfaces available to the public. The "Pixel Value" is indeed massive as it gets ahead of other releases, seeing a priority from Google, and this is something that users cannot get on other manufacturers of Android devices.

Related Article: Google Pixel 7, Pixel 6 are Now LineageOS 20 Supported: How About Other Android Phones?

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Twitter has laid off at least another 50 employees after Chief Tweet Elon Musk said that the company was done with cutting jobs. The cuts included the head of Twitter Blue Esther Crawford and the whole product team, who were all laid off this weekend.

(Photo : SAMANTHA LAUREY/AFP via Getty Images)

The Twitter Headquarters in San Francisco, California on November 4, 2022. - Half of Twitter's 7,500 employees were laid off on November 4, an internal document showed, as new owner Elon Musk began a major revamp of the troubled company.

Laying Off Another Set of Employees

Chief Tweet Elon Musk has conducted another layoff, affecting 50 employees. According to Engadget's report, Twitter laid off employees on Saturday evening, which includes a senior executive and its team.

Director of Product Management Esther Crawford was in charge of Twitter Blue, the platform's subscription service. She was considered one of the company's loyalists during Musk's term and was one of the recognizable faces at "Twitter 2.0."

Apart from Twitter Blue, Crawford also led an organization primarily focused on Twitter's 0-1 bets, which includes teams from Creators, Spaces, Communities, Crypto, and DMs. She notably tweeted last November that sometimes you will have to #SleepWhereYourWork in order to meet deadlines.

Crawford was also eyeing a bigger role in the company, before she was laid off. During the mass layoffs last November, she wrote on Slack that these cuts were going to be required in order for the company to survive, even with or without a new owner.

Also Read: Elon Musk Wants Twitter Employees to Work Long Hours! What Will Happen to Non-Compliant Staff?

TechCrunch reported that employees received emails at 2:00 AM on Saturday. The post includes detail on the extent of the layoffs, which are 50% in human relations, 60% in sales and marketing, 35% in engineering, 40% in finance, and 80% in project management. In February 17, it was also reported that several ad sales staff were also laid off.

Another prominent employee was affected by the latest cuts. Revue founder Martijn de Kuijper stated that he was among those who had lost their job. He said, "Waking up to find I've been locked out of my email. Looks like I'm let go." Revue is a newsletter platform acquired by Twitter last 2021.

Possible Reasons

Along with Crawford and Kuijper, the company laid off the remaining product and engineering team this weekend. The Verge's Alex Heath stated that these layoffs lead to speculation that Musk may be about to install a new regime for the company.

An ex-manager of the company stated to him that it is hard for the Chief Tweet to keep the lights on with the people who are still left. In one of his recent interviews, Musk said that he needs to stabilize the organization and make sure that the company is in a financially healthy place.

Once he cleared all of these, it would be a good time to find a replacement for him as the company's chief executive officer. This latest round of layoffs become the fourth one since Musk took over the company last November.

Related Article: Twitter Content Moderation Policy Unchanged Says Elon Musk, Justifies Employee Layoffs

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The International Baccalaureate (IB), an international nonprofit foundation based in Geneva, Switzerland, announced that ChatGPT is now allowed among young learners.

Some educational institutions have previously spoken about the ban on AI-powered tools in learning because it hinders students' learning capability. However, it appears that not all of them have the same perspective regarding using these AI programs.

Pupils Can Now Use ChatGPT to Writing Essays

According to a report by The Guardian on Monday, Feb. 27, the IB has confirmed that pupils can now rely on chatbots if they want extra help writing essays.

When ChatGPT burst in popularity in November 2022, some people thought it could lighten the load for some tasks in school and work.

As such, some think that AI tools will be useful in the long run in writing articles and generating text prompts.

Although ChatGPT initially has a good reputation in the community, not all teachers agree to use it because AI-based cheating can happen anytime.

For Matt Glanville, the head of assessment principles and practice, using a chatbot is considered "an extraordinary opportunity" everyone should embrace.

"The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet. As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography," Glanville told the Times.

Related Article: ChatGPT Replaces Almost Half of US Tech Firs' Workforce, Poll Suggests

Less Prominence in Essay Writing Due to Chatbots

In the UK, thousands of children are entering in over 120 schools, according to the IB.

In the future, Glanville envisions that the escalating trend of chatbot technology will potentially lead to essay writing being less prominent.

According to the IB official, there's more to just clicking a button to generate AI content in an essay. Although the writing tasks are expected to be simplified further, pupils should do their part in determining the missed context in a story or comprehending the depth of an essay.

Outside writing, Glanville says that there will be some assessment tasks that will be conducted to reflect on the skills of the learners when doing essays.

While banning is not in the vocabulary of the IB when it comes to AI-produced work, Glanville acknowledges that submitting a ChatGPT-generated essay or assignment as their own will fall under academic misconduct. A pupil who will do this will likely face the consequences of his/her actions, per Daily Mail.

ChatGPT Fever Drives China to Impose Strict Rules Against AI

With the uncontrollable frenzy that ChatGPT created, China will release new rules for the controlled and safe use of AI services in a strategic industry, Business Mirror reports.

China's Science Minister Wang Zhigang says the government will tackle the ethical issues surrounding artificial intelligence.

Read Also: ChatGPT is Slowly Penerating the Browser Market; Chinese Firms Are Catching Up

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Nokia, the smartphone king of yesteryears, on Sunday unveiled a refreshed logo at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2023, as part of its long-term strategic transformation and focus on aggressive growth.

The new refreshed logo distances the company from consumer products, especially smartphones  something it stopped making a decade ago.

Launched by Pekka Lundmark, President and CEO of Nokia, the new logo aims to focus on B2B (Business to business) technology innovation to drive digitalization across every industry.

In most peoples minds, we are still a successful mobile phone brand, but this is not what Nokia is about. We want to launch a new brand that is focusing very much on the networks and industrial digitalization, which is a completely different thing from the legacy mobile phones, Lundmark said in an interview ahead of the MWC in Barcelona on Sunday.

The new logo contains five different shapes that form the word NOKIA. Also, the iconic yale blue color in the logo is now replaced with a range of colors depending on the use. It emphasizes the value Nokia brings in networking expertise, technology leadership, pioneering innovation, and collaborative partnership.

The companys new logo is emblematic of an energized, dynamic, and modern Nokia, demonstrating its values and purpose. It has been designed as a symbol of collaboration, which Nokia believes to be critical for realizing the exponential potential of networks: unlocking gains in sustainability, productivity, and accessibility, the company said in a press release.

This is Nokia, but not as the world has seen us before. Our new brand signals who Nokia is today. Were unleashing the exponential potential of networks and their power to help reshape the way we all live and work, Nokia said in a Twitter post.

This is Nokia, but not as the world has seen us before. Our new brand signals who Nokia is today. Were unleashing the exponential potential of networks and their power to help reshape the way we all live and work. https://t.co/lbKLfaL2OI #NewNokia pic.twitter.com/VAgVo8p6nG  Nokia #MWC23 (@nokia) February 26, 2023

Besides unveiling the refreshed brand logo, Nokia also announced its updated company strategy. When Lundmark took over the position at the Finnish company in 2020, he at that point in time had set out a three-phased strategy to deliver sustainable, profitable growth, which is reset, accelerate, and scale.

With the reset stage now complete, Lundmark said that Nokia will continue to accelerate (which is the second stage) while laying the foundation for the scale phase.

The companys refreshed company strategy is based on six pillars for further acceleration:

Grow market share with service providers, driven by continued technology leadership;

Expand the share of Enterprises within its customer mix;

Continue to manage its portfolio actively, to ensure a path to a leading position in all segments where it decides to compete;

Seize opportunities from sectors beyond mobile devices to monetize Nokias IP and continue to invest in R&D for Nokia Technologies;

Implement new business models, such as as-a-Service; and

Develop ESG into a competitive advantage and become the trusted provider of choice in the industry.

In order to achieve the above pillars, Nokia has four key enablers: develop future-fit talent; invest in long-term research, especially in key domains such as 6G; digitalize its own operations to further enhance agility and productivity; and refresh the brand.

Although Nokias primary emphasis is now selling gear to other businesses that include private 5G networks and equipment for automated factories, the company still wants to expand its service provider business.

Our enterprise business grew by 21% last year and currently accounts for about 8% of our sales, (or) about 2 billion euros, and we hope to sell it as soon as possible. Up to double digits. The signal is very clear, we only want to get into businesses where we can see global leadership, Lundmark said.
Self-taught artist and photographer Marley Nichelle said they didnt know they were Gullah until people told them they talked funny when they moved to Charlottesville eight years ago.

I didnt even know I had an accent or even spoke a different dialect, said Nichelle, who is a native of Georgetown, South Carolina, about an hour outside of Charleston.

As they began researching their Gullah identity and roots, Nichelle noticed stark similarities between Gullah culture in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and the Ghanaian culture of West Africa.

Those connections are now on display at the Looking Glass immersive art space at IX Art Park in Charlottesville.

Nichelles exhibit, which opened on Thursday, is called the Sankofa Journey.

The word and concept of sankofa has been attributed to the Akan tribe of Ghana and translates to it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind. It is often represented by the image of a bird with its head turned backward with its feet facing forward and an egg in its mouth.

I hope this exhibition does send people back to their roots in a sankofa way, Nichelle told The Daily Progress. I want to bring that perspective here, not just through Gullah, but through West Africanism, because we have preserved a lot of West African traditions. You can tell a lot of people come from Ghana just by the way they live, and thats why its so easy for me to go and document that because people maintain that way of life in South Carolina to this day.

The Lowcountry and Gullah Islands of South Carolina are home to the Gullah and Geechee people, who maintain strong connections to their west and central African as well as indigenous American roots.

Nichelles exhibit features images of Ghanaian people making traditional kente cloth, cutting fruit and playing instruments. There are also images of the Ghana landscape, which sometimes resembles South Carolinas Gullah Islands.

Thats why sankofa exhibitions exist: to go back to your past to know your identity and tap into yourself, Nichelle said. The key is doing the research to know your history and your family first.

Nichelle welcomed guests at the eclectic mixed-media display on Saturday evening while selling art and giving lessons in Gullah history.

Last December, the Charlottesville Winneba Foundation used funds from a grant it received from the University of Virginia Equity Center to send Nichelle to Ghana for the Sankofa project. The grant from UVa specified that the money should go to an artist who travels to document a cultural experience and who would present their work to the city of Charlottesville when they returned.

Nichelle received the grant and traveled to Ghana all in the same month.

If you go to the Caribbean, West Indies, the Gullah Islands too, you will hear African dialect, Nichelle said. Thats how I know a lot about the cultural background and similarities to West Africanism. I was able to see it my first time going to Winneba, which is our sister city.

During Nichelles trip, they spent most of their time in Winneba, which is one of Charlottesvilles sister cities according to the Charlottesville Sister Cities Commission, an organization with City Council-appointed members, that exists to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation with sister cities around the world.

The organization identifies sister cities as those with several similarities. According to the commission, Winneba and Charlottesville are both university communities with an emphasis on the arts, memorable landscapes, similar economies and connected history.

One of the first similarities between Ghanaian and Gullah culture Nichelle noticed was food.

Where red rice is a staple in Gullah culture, jollof rice is a Ghanaian favorite.

Beyond food, the Sankofa Journey captures a cultural connection to nature and the earth.

Im the descendant of a sharecropper, and I have worked on my familys land up until recently but, because I lived in it, I never saw it as West African, Nichelle said. Then when I went to Africa for the first time in 2019, I saw it for myself.

In March 2022, Nichelle created a similar solo online exhibition called Ghana to Gullah, a collection of images that illustrate the Ghanaian origins of Gullah culture, food, music and traditions. The digital exhibit documented Nichelles journey from Ghana back to their home in Georgetown in order to document and educate others on the history and Ghanaian connections to Gullah culture.

Nichelle said they hope to take the Sankofa Journey to Charlottesville and Albemarle public schools to teach students about the ways that Black Americans have preserved West African culture through slavery and the Jim Crow era.

Right now, my [Gullah] grandmother is my sankofa, Nichelle said. Id like to continue showing people that their grandparents are their sankofa too.

Nichelles exhibit at the Looking Glass space will end on Monday. The exhibit is open from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Admission is free.

For more information call (434) 207-2964 or visit ixartpark.org.

Those interested in Nichelles work can see the artists portfolio online.
Charlottesvilles police chief plans to host a community forum on Monday to discuss the recent spate of gun violence in the city.

Police Chief Michael Kochis has invited Charlottesville residents to Old Trinity Church on 10th Street for the town hall-style event.

We cant prevent crime alone, Kochis told The Daily Progress on Friday.

Shootings have taken 11 lives and injured at least 21 people in the city of Charlottesville and surrounding Albemarle County since September, according to a Daily Progress tally. In Charlottesville alone there have three homicides since the start of the year, according to city police.

This time last year there had been two reported killings within the city limits.

Two of this years three killings in the city have occurred in broad daylight: one in Belmont on Jan. 8, which took the life of Osvaldo Lopez-Hernandez of Texas, and the other in the citys 10th & Page neighborhood last Wednesday, which took the life of 20-year-old Gordonsville resident Nicklous Pendleton.

The third homicide in the city took the life of 36-year-old Charlottesville resident Eldridge Skeeta Smith on the night of Jan. 28. Smith was a member of the citys B.U.C.K. Squad, a group dedicated to removing gun violence from Charlottesvilles streets.

Arrests have been made in two of the three shootings. The shooter in Wednesdays shooting remains at large.

Kochis has said police believe that all three were targeted murders.

The last three homicides weve had this year all involved people who were acquainted with each other or knew each other, Kochis said, before acknowledging that fact doesnt make it any easier for Charlottesville residents to feel safe in their community.

Since Wednesdays shooting, Kochis said he has increased patrols in three hot spots that have seen increased gun violence: 10th & Page, parts of Charlottesville a little further away from 10th & Page and the Corner near the University of Virginia.

Those neighborhoods can expect there to be an increase of officers on foot and bicycle and in vehicles. There will also be plainclothes officers in those areas speaking with members of the community, he said.

Ive been walking through the communities and speaking with folks  to really listen to those folks who live in those communities who are most affected by gun crime, Kochis said. And the message that I have heard is very clear. They want police in their communities. They want us to be the police again.

Mondays community forum at Old Trinity Church is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. Old Trinity Church sits at 415 10th St., a third of a mile away from where Pendleton was shot and killed on Wednesday.

City residents are encouraged to attend and engage in conversations designed to spark change within our communities, the Charlottesville Police Department said in a tweet announcing the event.

Anyone with information regarding any of the recent shootings in the Charlottesville area is urged to call the Crime Stoppers tip line at (434) 977-4000.
"A deliberate and premeditated act": in Angers, an investigation opened after the ransacking of a church

"Can cause very serious complications": doctors - about the increase in the incidence of measles in Russia

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Bordeaux: a car ploughs into the crowd during a wild race, 7 injured, 2 of them serious

"I worked with incredible overstrain": a historian on the importance of the railway for the victory of the USSR over the Wehrmacht

The week of God Tuitero: Cain and Abel are a model of fraternity next to Iglesias and Yolanda Diaz

People from all walks of life mourn the founding chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Teochew Associations Chan Wai Nam - China News Network video

"Post-00s" hearing-impaired dancers train the "big stage": they will help more people realize their dreams with their own strength-China News Network video

Opposition fever after the pandemic: "Studying in holes did not work for me. When I got from 9 to 9 I passed two and the first one"

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New home prices in 3 cities in China in March: more than ninety percent of cities rose month-on-month, hitting a new high in nearly four years

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There are changes in the method of collecting the proceeds from the transfer of mining rights, and the pressure on enterprises is expected to be reduced

Experts at home and abroad gathered in Quancheng to explore a new path of deep "marriage" of science and technology finance

Data trading has ushered in a new wave of development, and the market size is expected to exceed 2025 billion yuan in 2200

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 Communities 2019 - Privacy

The information on this site is from external sources that are not under our control.The inclusion of any links does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
The regional Emergency Communications Center, a joint effort between the city of Charlottesville, Albemarle County and the University of Virginia, plans to host a public meeting on Monday between the centers Calls for Service and Funding Model Review Committee and management board.

Items on the meetings agenda include a discussion on new visualization tools for computer-aided dispatch data as well as a funding model discussion and planning session.

Mondays meeting is scheduled for 1 p.m. in the conference room at 2306 Ivy Road west of Charlottesville.

The Emergency Communications Center was established in 1984 and serves a population of 156,036 across the region. It receives 238,000 annual 911 and administrative calls and 181,000 annual calls for service, according to its website.
We knew eventually we wanted to help others in our position, because there was no one out there to help us all those years ago. -- Susan Aucoin, NOLA Hawts

Pull Quote
Pioneering Australian skincare brand Ultra Violette is preparing to build on its market domination in Britain by expanding into more than 400 stores across Europe next month.

The Melbourne-based business, founded by Ava Chandler-Matthews and Rebecca Jefferd in early 2019, took the British market by storm in 2021, is now stocked in major beauty and luxury retailers including SpaceNK, Harrods, Liberty, Cult Beauty, and Sephora.

Melbourne-based business Ultra Violette, founded by Bec Jefferd (left) and Ava Chandler-Matthews in early 2019, has scored a world-wide hit with it is locally developed and manufactured skinscreen range.

The pairs high-performance SPF products, known as Skinscreen, entered 12 European markets through Sephora last year, including France, Spain, Italy, Poland, the Czech Republic, Portugal, Greece, Germany, and Switzerland.

While predominantly online, there were a number of markets that had bricks-and-mortar presence, with sales prompting the retailer to expand Ultra Violettes range into 372 stores across Europe from March 6. More than 50 stores will stock the products all year round  a first in Europe in a shift in attitude towards SPF50 sunscreen and its importance in daily skincare regimens. The brand predicts sales across Europe to be up to 10 times the 2022 sales.
Up on stage, my physiotherapist is belting out a number in a blue sequinned dress with my neighbour, whos bare-chested under an ornately embroidered Nudie suit  the kind that country singer Gram Parsons used to wear. If youre going to win Castlemaine Idyll, you need to put on a spectacle.

Jesse Curran and Rohan Nichol perform (and win) at the 2022 Castlemaine Idyll. Credit: Richard McLeish

There can be few Castlemainians who have gazed upon the flatbed-truck stage at arts precinct Lot 19 and havent nudged the person next to them to vow: Im doing that next year.

Now, just weeks out from the 2023 event, their moment of truth is nigh.

Castlemaine Idyll is a loose  very loose  homage to Australian Idol. Ordinary folks realise their rock-star potential by dressing up and smashing out covers in front of a live band; one that will provide add-ons of horns and backing singers at your whim.
Few plants are hardy enough to survive the red desert plains of central Australia, where the sands can reach 50 degrees and rain evaporates as soon as it falls. But one does more than just survive  spinifex thrives.

The grass is thin, strong and barely needs any rain. Its remarkable properties have long been known to local First Nations communities, who have used the grass to make shelters and beds and its plastic-like resin as glue for spear points for thousands of years.

Spinifex displays extraordinary strength, thanks to its unique cellulose nanofibres.

About 15 years ago, scientists from the University of Queensland trekked out to these communities to study the grass.

Under the microscope, spinifex revealed its secret: a unique arrangement of hair-like cellulose nanofibres, which result in an extraordinary tensile strength five-times that of stainless steel.
Queens Wharf Brisbane has been heralded as the future of city tourism but will not acknowledge its history as the birthplace of the colony.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles on Monday joined casino and project bosses to inspect work on the Neville Bonner Bridge over the Brisbane River, ahead of the $3.6 billion complex opening before Christmas.

Queens Wharf Road and the wharf in the 1860s. Some of the citys earliest pubs, The Green Man and the Queens Head Inn, are visible. Credit: National Trust of Queensland.

While museums will recognise Brisbanes European and Indigenous history, there will be no historical displays or monuments to the colony. That is despite the significance of that stretch of riverfront.

It is not planned at the moment to have anything down here, said Queens Wharf Brisbane project director Simon Crooks.
Cybercrime detectives have charged a Melbourne man after he allegedly threatened to start a bushfire in an attempt to extort millions of dollars.

The 27-year-old Bundoora man was charged with extortion on Monday over an online message he allegedly sent to a Queensland emergency service in October.

An emergency service was allegedly told it had three days to transfer $5 million of cryptocurrency. Credit: Paul Jeffers

The threat received by the emergency service said a bushfire would be lit if $5 million in cryptocurrency was not transferred within three days.

The emergency service then reported the message to police. No money was exchanged, and the threat was not carried out.
The cycle of companies paying ransoms after being hit by a cyberattack and in turn encouraging more hacking attempts, such as the one that stung health insurer Medibank last year, could be broken by a proposal canvassed in a government review to ban the practice.

A review of Australias cybersecurity strategy led by former Telstra boss Andy Penn and delivered on Monday asked for feedback on the idea of banning the payment of ransoms to cyber criminals, which the federal government is considering after an industry roundtable.

Cybersecurity Minister Clare ONeil says that where possible companies should not reward hackers with ransoms. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

When we have an ecosystem where people are constantly paying ransoms then it makes it look like Australia is a soft target, and we are not a soft target, said Home Affairs Minister Clare ONeil. There are many Australian companies that do not pay ransoms and certainly the advice with the Australian government is we would ask you not to do that.

But paying ransoms is not illegal and a survey conducted by pollster YouGov for the advisory firm McGrathNicol, which is often brought in to deal with cyberattacks, found last year that about 80 per cent of Australian businesses hit by a cyberattack pay a ransom averaging $1 million. In that scenario, the criminals render a companys network inoperable or steal information and say they will undo the damage only if a payment is made, typically in cryptocurrencies that are hard to trace.
The Pantops Community Advisory Committee plans to meet on Monday to discuss the Albemarle County Comprehensive Plan.

The meetings agenda calls for a high-level overview and open discussion of the Comprehensive Plan, otherwise known as AC44.

The schedule also calls for updates from two county supervisors: committee liaison Bea LaPisto-Kirtley and board Chair Donna Price.

Albemarle Countys Planning Division is leading an update of the county Comprehensive Plan, which began in spring of 2022 and is anticipated to be completed in the fall of 2024. The plan will set priorities and serve as a guide for future development in Albemarle County.

This Comprehensive Plan update is an opportunity to incorporate the communitys recent work, better understand the lives of Albemarle County residents and plan for an equitable and resilient future.

The Comprehensive Plan will be in effect until 2044, with periodic updates, thus the name AC44.

Albemarle County's community advisory committees are committees that meet monthly to support county staff and the Board of Supervisors in implementing their development area's master plan. Committee members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Each committee has a liaison from the Planning Commission, Board of Supervisors and county planning staff.

The Pantops Community Advisory Committee meets monthly to support county staff and the Board of Supervisors in updating and implementing the Pantops Master Plan. These meetings are open to the public and provide an opportunity for open conversation about ongoing development in the area.

Mondays meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:15 p.m. in the Kessler Conference Room at Martha Jefferson Hospital Outpatient Center at 595 Martha Jefferson Drive east of Charlottesville.
New York: Hundreds of newspapers across the US will stop running the Dilbert comic strip after its creator said on a YouTube livestream that black people were a hate group and that white people should just get the hell away from them.

The creator, Scott Adams, who was behind the widely syndicated comic strip that mocks office culture, was widely rebuked for his comments by newspapers that had printed his work for years.

Scott Adams, creator of Dilbert cartoon.

The USA Today Network, which publishes more than 200 newspapers, said it would no longer publish the Dilbert comic due to the recent discriminatory comments by its creator.

The Los Angeles Times said it would end publication of the comic strip because of his racist comments. And the editor of The Cleveland Plain Dealer, Chris Quinn, said Adams went on a racist rant that had prompted the newspaper to also drop Dilbert.
Ramin Karimloo

( Matthew Murphy)

Ramin Karimloo, currently starring on Broadway in Funny Girl, will return to the title role in The Phantom of the Opera in a new Italian production of the show this summer.

The fresh vision for Andrew Lloyd Webber, Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe's musical is produced by Broadway Italia, and will be directed by Federico Bellone. It will be staged in English at Teatro Stabile del Friuli Venezia Giulia in Trieste, with performances starting on July 4. Tickets go on sale March 9.

This will mark the first time that Phantom has been seen in Italy, and the production will reportedly include innovative special effects, including a flaming chandelier with the Phantom on it.

The musical premiered in the West End in 1986 and has since become one of the most popular and longest-running shows in theater history. It on tinues its run at its usual haunt, the West End's Her Majesty's Theatre, in the West End, with a new cast set to be led by Jon Robyns arriving this spring. The record-setting Broadway run at the Majestic Theatre is scheduled to conclude on April 16 after 35 years.

Karimloo has played the Phantom in London's West End, Korea, and in the 25th Anniversary Concert at the Royal Albert Hall.
Batavia, NY (14020)

Today

Sunny, along with a few afternoon clouds. High 82F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Showers and thundershowers during the evening will give way to steady rain overnight. Low 44F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 90%.
2 Arrested in Georgia Gas Station Shooting That Injured 9 Children

COLUMBUS, Ga.Police have arrested two peopleone just 15 years oldin connection with a shooting in a Georgia city near the Alabama state line that left nine children injured.

Both were arrested Friday in the Feb. 17 shooting at a gas station in Columbus in which seven teenagers and two younger children suffered gunshot wounds that were not considered life-threatening.

Police did not release the teenage suspects name but said he was a validated gang member and was taken to a youth detention center on one count of aggravated assault, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. DAngelo Robinson Sr., 35, was booked into the Muscogee County Jail on eight counts of aggravated assault.

Police Chief Freddie Blackmon said at a news conference a day after the shooting that an altercation apparently took place at a party nearby and it spilled over to the gas station when the shooting began. Further details were not provided, but Blackmon said the incident remained under investigation.

Police have said the youngest victim, who is 5 years old, was not at the party but was in the vicinity of the gas station with a family member.

Columbus is located about 110 miles southwest of Atlanta and about 85 miles east of Montgomery, Alabama.
2 Men Killed in 2nd Minnesota Shooting Outside a Funeral

A police car in St. Paul, Minn., in June 2019. (Google Maps/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

ST. PAUL, Minn.Two men were killed and three other people were injured in a second shooting outside gatherings to mourn loved ones in St. Paul this weekend.

The St. Paul Police Department said all five people were shot in a parking lot shortly after 5 p.m. Saturday during an altercation after a celebration-of-life event. One man died at the scene while a second man died at a hospital after he was taken there in a private vehicle.

The three people who were injured included a man who was in critical condition Saturday and two women with injuries not considered life-threatening.

No arrests had been made as of Sunday morning. None of the victims names were released immediately.

Saturdays shooting came one day after three teens were shot and injured at a funeral reception for a Harding High School student who had been fatally stabbed at school two weeks earlier.

Police said there was no evidence the two weekend shootings were connected.
Mr. Peng Kang-ming, the manager at the design department of a world top 10 memory chip manufacturer, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts with his wife at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli, Taiwan, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Li I-hsin/The Epoch Times)

MIAOLI, TaiwanShen Yun Performing Arts World Company toured at Miaoli, Taiwan. In Miaoli and the nearby Hsinchu city are located several major global semiconductor chip manufacturers. Senior managers from these companies attended Shen Yun on Feb. 26 and said the show was amazing!

Mr. Peng Kang-ming is the manager at the design department of a international top 10 memory chip manufacturer. He attended Shen Yun with his wife Ms. Lin Hsiao-yu, and Ms. Lins sister and brother-in-law.

Shen Yun is really fantastic. Its amazing! Mr. Peng said. You must feel it by attending in person. Its worth seeing.

Mr. Peng said Shen Yun brought him astounding feelings twofold: for both his eyes and ears.

The dynamic backdrop is super, super vivid. The coordination between the backdrop and dancers is perfect, without a single flaw, he said. Shen Yun costumes are very beautiful. The lights on stages reflected on the costumes. Oh, they are very bright, extremely gorgeous!

Mr. Peng said the live orchestra showcased both Western instruments and Eastern instruments, and performed wonderful music.

The live orchestra is very, very, very good. It plays the particular music from different dynasties, each with their own character, he said. The (two-stringed instrument) erhu is very Chinese and expressed the feeling accurately.

Mr. Peng said he was shocked by Shen Yun.

It took me inside the stories. Its stunning! he said. I was very shocked when the curtain first opened. I saw the Creator was in a paradise on the backdrop. There were angels surrounding him. Its very beautiful.

Mr. Peng repeated Shen Yun is worth seeing for yourself and its amazing during his interview.

Ms. Lin, his wife, said: This is a real world-class, super-high-level performance.

She felt her heart resonated with Shen Yun.

We are all watching Shen Yun together, but each of us has different feelings. At some points, you feel your heart was touched, she said. I had these feelings. They are very impressive.

Ms. Lin said she understood from Shen Yun that we should do good things, be kind, and live with honesty in the future, no matter what will happen around us.

New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company, and has a mission to show the beauty and goodness of China before communism. For 5,000 years Chinas civilization was built on values and virtues from the spiritual teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

3 Words

Ms. Lins sister, Ms. Lin Hsuan-pei, said she couldnt control her tears from beginning to end.

I dont know why. I was very touched, very moved, and very excited being here, she said. I dont know other theatergoers feelings, but [Shen Yun] awed my heart. I have never seen a show as astounding as Shen Yun.

Mr. Peng Kang-ming (R), the manager at the design department of a world top 10 memory chip manufacturer, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts with his wife Ms. Lin (2nd R), and Ms. Lins sister (L) and husband at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli, Taiwan, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Provided by Ms. Lin Hsiao-yu)

Ms. Lin Hsuan-pei said she was touched by each vignette.

I just felt that the show is stunning, but I dont know how to describe my feelings. My heart is full of feeling, she said.

The sister said she remembered three words from Shen Yun: truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.

Especially the tolerance. I will learn it, she said. I believe in divine beings. I wont give up my faith. I have infected with COVID-19 for four times. I feel Im blessed, to have this chance to attend Shen Yun.

Each Shen Yun performance consists of nearly 20 vignettes, presented through highly-expressive art forms such as classical Chinese dance, original orchestral music performed live, soloists who sing in the bel canto tradition, animated digital backdrops, and more.

Majestic Backdrop

Mr. Chen Chien-yu, a designing manager of one of the worlds top 5 semiconductor chip manufacturer, was surprised by the technology he saw in Shen Yun.

The performance combines classical Chinese dance, the traditional stories, and the patented dynamic backdrop. Its really creative, he said.

Mr. Chen said the backdrop interacted with the dancers perfectly, in which the dancers traveled back and forth between the backdrop and the stage.

The backdrop was very well designed. No matter where the dancers move to, the backdrop changed accordingly. The coordination is perfect. I really commend it, he said. Shen Yun is really amazing!

Mr. Chen said he enjoyed Shen Yun very much.

The stories structures are very complete. With the support of the dynamic backdrop, the show is majestic! he said.

Reporting by Epoch Times Staff in Miaoli, Taiwan.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
North China city launches first China-Europe freight train

Xinhua) 10:50, February 27, 2023

Aerial photo taken on April 17, 2021 shows a freight train bound for Hamburg, Germany departing from the Shijiazhuang international land port in north China's Hebei Province. (Photo by Zhang Xiaofeng/Xinhua)

SHIJIAZHUANG, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- The city of Langfang in north China's Hebei Province saw its first China-Europe freight train leave the station Saturday.

The freight train, carrying 55 40-foot containers, will complete a journey of 7,800 km. It will leave the country via Erenhot Port in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, pass through Mongolia and finally arrive at its destination in Moscow 17 days later.

The goods, with a total value of nearly 20 million yuan (about 2.88 million U.S. dollars), mainly include light industrial products, food, clothing and daily necessities, which are from local companies in Langfang, and import and export companies in surrounding areas.

The freight train service is of great significance to further promoting the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and integrating into the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative, according to the city's development and reform commission.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A Contagion of Cowardice

Commentary

Jordan Petersons interview with Jay Bhattacharya is one of the more insightful conversations to come out of the post-pandemic period. Its fascinating to see Peterson coming to terms with the sheer scale of the lockdown during which time he was rather sick. We could have used his voice then and I have no doubt that he would have been fantastic.

Fortunately for the whole world, we did have Jay. Its not just his credentials or his position at Stanford University. Its his erudition that gave him the reach to make sense of our times. In this interview, Jay explains the unfolding of events in ways I personally found compelling.

Summing up his message, the response upended a century of public-health practice based on computer modeling that was not informed by any medical knowledge or public-health experience. That modeling came to be fused with a military-style response that waged a war on a pathogen with no exit strategy. Powerful industrial interests saw their chance to realize every hidden agenda.

That was further complicated by severe political division. Even though the lockdowns began under the Trump administration, opposing them mysteriously came to be seen as right-wing even though the pandemic policies violated every civil liberty, massively harmed the poor, divided the classes, and trampled essential freedoms, which one might suppose were concerns of the left, once upon a time.

Jay knew from the beginning that these policies were a disaster but his method of dissent was to stick with the genuine science. He worked with colleagues very early in the pandemic on a study from California that proved that this war on the invisible enemy was futile. COVID was everywhere and only a mortal threat to a narrow group in the population needed to have its guard up while the rest of society moved on. That study was released in April 2020 and the implications were undeniably devastating to the war planners and the lockdown pushers.

The conclusion of the study seems rather commonplace now: The estimated population prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Santa Clara County implies that the infection may be much more widespread than indicated by the number of confirmed cases. But at the time, when dissent was rare if non-existent in scientific literature, and when the planning elite had declared its number one goal was to track, trace, and isolate, and thereby minimize infections through compulsion while we wait for a vaccine, this conclusion was anathema.

Thats when the attacks began. It was like he had to be shut down. The popular press began to go after him savagely, smearing both the study and his motivations (this later became outright censorship). At this point, he began to realize the intensity of the campaign against dissent and the push for full unity in favor of the policy response. It was not like normal times when scientists could disagree. This was something different, something fully militarized, when a whole-of-government and whole-of-society consensus was being demanded by every institution. That meant no heresies against orthodoxy were allowed.

At this point, the interview breaks and Peterson begins to ask probing questions of the sort he likes concerning the spiritual struggle all of us face in life, a subject that clearly consumes him. Peterson believes that all seeming political struggles are ultimately personal ones. Do we back off and acquiesce to conventional wisdom or do we continue to walk toward the light as shown by our conscience?

He asks Jay if he faced this moment, and Jay admits that he did indeed face this. He realized that continuing in this directionresearching to discover facts and telling the truth as he saw itwould massively disrupt his career, his life, and everything he had worked for. Everything would be different, away from comfort and into an uncertain and isolated frontier.

He faced that choice and made the decision to go ahead, undeterred. But the decision cost him dearly. He could not sleep. He lost tremendous amounts of weight. He faced social and professional ostracism. He was dragged through the mud daily in the press and scapegoated for every policy failure. He was accused of conspiring with the purveyors of dark money and every other form of professional corruption. He found himself vexed beyond which he had ever been in his entire career. But still he forged ahead, eventually gathering with other scientists to make what is now a famous statement of public health that has stood the test of time.

Its fascinating to consider how few in academia and professional life made this choice. And the reasons why are also intriguing. Many in these high-end professions, particularly in academia, have far less job flexibility than we think. We might suppose that a tenured professor in the Ivy League could and would say anything he wants.

The opposite is true. They are not like the barber or auto mechanic who can leave one job and easily start another a few blocks away or in a different town. They are, in many ways, trapped in their own circle of influence. They know this and dare not depart from industry norms. And too often those norms are formed by funding. Yale University, for example, gets more overall revenue from government than from tuition. Thats typical among such institutions. And now we know that media and tech are also on the payroll.

These conflicts of interest combined with careerism played themselves out in brutal ways over the last few years. The high-end professionals who left their jobs to work in the Trump administration, for example, found that they had no jobs waiting for them at all when that presidency came to an end. They were not welcomed back, certainly not by academia. They were discarded. I personally know of many cases where people on advanced career tracks lost all merely by agreeing to what they believed would be public service.

The lockdowns era made this much worse. All over the country, scientists, media figures, writers, think-tank officials, professors, editors, and influencers of all sorts were pressured to go along. Not just that: they were threatened to go along. And it wasnt just the opinions that mattered. There were all sorts of compliance tests along the way. There was the social distancing test. If you didnt practice in it, that somehow marked you as an enemy. The masking was another: you can tell who was who and what was what based on the willingness to cover ones face.

The vaccine mandate, appallingly, became another wedge issue that enabled all kinds of professions to purge people. Once the New York Times claimed (summer 2021) to have evidence that the unvaccinated were more likely to be Trump supporters, that did it. The Biden administration and many university administrators felt that they had the ultimate weapon to achieve the purge about which they had longed dreamed.

Comply or get tossed out. That was the new rule. And truly this largely worked. Diversity of opinion in many sectors of societymedia, academia, corporate life, the militaryis dramatically reduced after this epoch. It doesnt matter that courts later came along to say it was all bad law. The damage had been done.

Still, we have to be curious about those who did not go along. What drove them to depart from their fellows? This is why Gabrielles Bauers book Blindsight Is 2020 is so valuable. It doesnt cover them all but it does highlight the voices of many who dared to think for themselves. And yet here is the truth: among this dissident set, very few arent doing something completely different today from what they were doing in 2019. They have changed jobs, changed professions, changed towns and states, and even seen families and friendship networks shattered.

They all paid a huge price. Im not sure I know any exceptions to the rule. Going against the grain and daring to stand up for truth in a time of totalitarianism is exceedingly dangerous. Our times have proven that. (Brownstones Fellows program is designed to give many of these purged people a bridge to a new life.)

I titled this article a contagion of cowardice. It might be too severe to call it that. Many people went along for entirely rational reasons. Another point to consider is that moral teaching in the great religions has not typically required absolute heroism. What it does require is not doing evil. And those really are different things. Staying quiet might not be evil; its only the absence of being heroic. St. Thomas even writes this in his treatise on moral theology: the faith celebrates but never requires martyrdom.

And yet it is also true that heroism in our times is absolutely necessary for the preservation of civilization when it is so brutally under attack. If everyone chooses the safe path, and crafts ones decisions around the principle of risk aversion, the bad guys truly do win. And where does this land and how far can we slide into the abyss under those conditions? The history of despotism and death by government reveal where this ends up.

The best case for heroism over careerism and cowardice is to look back over these three years and observe just how much difference a few can make when they are willing to stand up for truth even when there is a big price to be paid for doing so. Such people can change everything. This is because ideas are more powerful than armies and all the propaganda that a machinery of power can muster. One statement, one study, one sentence, one small effort to puncture the wall of lies can bring down the whole system.

And then the contagion of cowardice comes to be replaced by a contagion of truth. Those who stood up for that form of contagion deserve our respect and gratitude. They also deserve to survive and thrive in the new renaissance that so many today are working to build.

More than people right now are willing to admit, civil society as we knew it collapsed over these three years. A massive purge has taken place within all the commanding heights. This will affect career choices, political alliances, philosophical commitments, and the structure of society for decades to come.

The rebuilding and reconstruction that must take place is going to relyperhaps as it always hason a small minority who see both the problem and the solution. Brownstone is doing its best and the most possible given our resources and the time in which weve had to operate. But much more needs to be done. The rebuilding requires a spiritual-level commitment to intelligence, wisdom, bravery, and truth.

From the Brownstone Institute

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Abortion Pill Challenge: Democrats and Republicans Square Off in Lawsuits Against FDA

'The FDA failed in its responsibility to protect Americans when it approved chemical abortion drugs,' attorney says

A woman looks at an abortion pill (RU-486) displayed on a computer in Arlington, Va., on May 8, 2020. (Olivier Douliery/AFP via Getty Images)

Democrats and Republicans are squaring off in dueling legal efforts in opposition and defense of the widely used abortion pill.

Dozens of attorneys general from both red and blue states are taking sides in a battle that will ultimately determine the fate and availability of the widely used abortion pill.

Blue states are suing the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from the position that it is too strict in limiting access to mifepristone, one of the two drugs used for medication abortion.

In the meantime, red states are suing the FDA from the position that it never had the authority to allow the drug to be made available online and shipped through the mail, and are seeking to have it removed from the U.S. market entirely.

On its own behalf, the FDA has asked the court to dismiss the lawsuits.

The Republican Argument

The Republican complaint (pdf) was filed on Nov. 18, 2022, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas Amarillo Division by Julie Marie Blake on behalf of Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF).

The complaint takes the abortion pill story back to its beginnings when, on the second day of his presidency in January 1993, Bill Clinton directed his cabinet to legalize chemical abortion drugs in the United States.

The complaint alleges that Clinton and the FDA then pressured the manufacturer of mifepristone to donate for free the U.S. patent rights of the drug to the Population Council, described as an entity focused on population control.

After receiving the patent rights, the Population Council submitted a new drug application, coordinated closely with Clintons FDA, and obtained approval on Sept. 28, 2000.

The only way the FDA could have approved chemical abortion drugs was to use its accelerated drug approval authority, necessitating the FDA to call pregnancy an illness and argue that these dangerous drugs provide a meaningful therapeutic benefit over existing treatments, the complaint argues.

But pregnancy is not an illness, nor do chemical abortion drugs provide a therapeutic benefit over surgical abortion. In asserting these transparently false conclusions, the FDA exceeded its regulatory authority to approve the drugs.

Julie Marie Blake, senior counsel for ADF, says the FDA has failed in its primary responsibility of protecting American lives.

The FDA failed in its responsibility to protect Americans when it approved chemical abortion drugs and when it removed even basic safeguards on their use, Blake told The Epoch Times.

Our lawsuit is brought on behalf of emergency room doctors, local OBs, and medical professionals who have had to care for women harmed by these dangerous chemical abortion drugs. Theyre standing up on behalf of their patients and were asking the court to order the FDA to put the politics aside, to follow the science, and to protect women and girls from chemical abortion drugs.

On Feb. 10, Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch filed an amicus brief (pdf) in the same court on behalf of her state as well as the AGs of 21 additional red states.

Rather than respect the Constitution, the Supreme Court, and the democratic process, the Biden Administration has attacked and worked to undermine the considered judgments of the elected representatives of States like amici, Fitch wrote in the complaint.

The Administrations actions on abortion drugs typify that effort. The day Dobbs was decided, President Biden directed his Administration to ensure that abortion drugs are as widely accessible as possible, including through telehealth and sent by mail.'

Fitch further argued that the FDAs actions will undermine States ability to protect their citizens, which will lead to the widespread shipment and use of abortion-inducing drugs, and force States to devote scarce resources to investigating and prosecuting violations of their laws. As the FDA continues a campaign that will harm amicis citizens, amici will not sit by.

Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch.(Courtesy of Lynn Fitch)

The FDAs brazen attempt to not only sidestep but outright defy federal and state laws threatens both the health of women and democracy, Fitch wrote further.

In the Dobbs case, the Supreme Court affirmed that states may enact laws that protect unborn life, womens health, and the integrity of the medical profession, and we will not allow the Biden administration to trample on this fundamental Constitutional building block.

On Jan. 13, Danco Laboratories, LLC, filed a motion to intervene (pdf). According to reports, Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk ordered Danco Laboratories to explain its opposition to the plaintiffs case.

Forcing FDA to withdraw a longstanding approval would seismically disrupt the agencys governing authority as to whether drugs are safe and effective, and would cause Danco direct and immediate harm by shuttering its business, attorneys for Danco Laboratories told the court.

The Democrat Argument

On Feb. 23, AGs from 12 Democrat-led states filed a lawsuit (pdf) against the FDA arguing that its current regulations are too restrictive. Doctors who prescribe the abortion pill, and the pharmacies that dispense the drug, must obtain a special certification to do so.

The Democrat states want to expand access to the abortion drug by having the FDA allow any doctor to prescribe it and any pharmacy to dispense it, like most drugs. They complain further about the time-consuming requirements placed on the University of WashingtonPatient Agreement Form must be signed by both the patient and a certified provider, which poses significant challenges in the telehealth setting, before a prescription can be filled by a certified pharmacy.

This work has been further complicated by the fact that some patients may not have access to or comfort with certain technologies (such as smartphones with scanning apps), they argue further, adding that some physicians have expressed concern that by completing the Prescriber Agreement Form and having their name on a list of certified medication abortion prescribers, they could become a target of anti-abortion violence or harassment in the event the list were leaked or compromised.

New York Attorney General Letitia James speaks during a press conference in New York, on Sept. 21, 2022. (Yuki Iwamura/AFP via Getty Images)

On Feb. 10, a coalition of 22 attorneys general, led by New York Democrat AG Letitia James, asked the court to dismiss the case, arguing that the withdrawal of federal approval for the abortion drug would have a negative impact on millions of people.

The consequences of annulling the FDAs approval of medication abortioncurrently the most common method of obtaining early abortionwould be nothing short of catastrophic, James stated in the brief (pdf), adding that removing the pills from the market will have devastating consequences for the residents of amici States.

Procedural abortion is not only more invasive than medication abortion, but it is also generally more costly and difficult to obtain, the brief argues.

Indeed, the availability of mifepristone has been particularly critical in providing access to abortion in low-income, underserved, and rural communities where procedural abortion may be unavailable. And because medication abortion is the most common method used to terminate pregnancy during the first trimester, eliminating access to this method will result in more abortions taking place later in pregnancy, further increasing costs and medical risks.

The FDAs Argument

In a response (pdf) filed on Jan. 13, attorneys for the FDA argued that the case should be dismissed, since there is no precedent where a court has second-guessed FDAs safety and efficacy determination and ordered a widely available FDA-approved drug to be removed from the market.

Removing access to mifepristone would cause worse health outcomes for patients who rely on the availability of mifepristone to safely and effectively terminate their pregnancies, the FDAs attorneys argued.

A sign for the Food And Drug Administration is seen outside of the headquarters in White Oak, Md. (Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images)

ADF senior counsel Blake sees it differently.

By illegally approving chemical abortion drugs, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration failed to abide by its legal obligations to protect the health, safety, and welfare of girls and women, she told the Epoch Times.

The FDA never studied the safety of the drugs under the labeled conditions of use, ignored the potential impacts of the hormone-blocking regimen on the developing bodies of adolescent girls, disregarded the substantial evidence that chemical abortion drugs cause more complications than surgical abortions, and eliminated necessary safeguards for pregnant girls and women who undergo this dangerous drug regimen.

Blake also insists the FDA never had the authority to allow chemical abortion drugs to be sent by mail in the first place.

Long-standing federal laws, passed by Congress, say that you cant send chemical abortion drugs through the mail or by FedEx or UPS, Blake noted.

Federal criminal law 18 U.S.C.  1461, 1462 does prohibit the distribution of abortion-inducing drugs through the mail. By obstructing the law, Fitch insists that Bidens FDA has undermined the public interest.

Blake also said there are important reasons why chemical abortion drugs should be dispensed in person by a doctor rather than being prescribed remotely.

An in-person medical exam or an ultrasound can rule out important reasons why a woman shouldnt take chemical abortion drugs, such as when she may be farther along in her pregnancy than she realizes, she said. It can also help rule out an entopic pregnancy. Chemical abortion drugs can kill a woman if she takes them, and while she thinks her pain is just being caused by going through a chemical abortion, shes really going through a life-threatening entopic pregnancy.

Abortion Pill Explained

In 2000, the FDA approved mifepristone as a method of abortion in 2000. When taken along with misoprostol, the two-drug combination is known as medication abortion or the abortion pill.

A study published by the Guttmacher Institutefirst published in February of 2022 and updated in December of 2022showed that over half of the abortions in the United States (54 percent) were induced chemically by abortion pills in the year 2020.

That year is the first time medication abortion crossed the threshold to become the majority of all abortions and it is a significant jump from 39 percent in 2017 when Guttmacher last reported these data, the report revealed.

File photo: A poster advertising illegal abortion pills is seen on a bin in Sophiatown, Johannesburg, on September 29, 2020. (Luca Sola/AFP via Getty Images)

According to Willow Womens Center (WWC), the term abortion pill leads some to believe that only one pill is required to end a pregnancy.

But in reality, a medical abortion requires taking multiple pills of two different abortion medications; mifepristone and misoprostol, WWC explains on its website, adding that the first abortion medication, mifepristone, is taken to block progesterone. When progesterone is blocked, the uterine lining breaks down, and the embryos heart stops beating. The second medication, misoprostol, is taken approximately 24 hours later. Misoprostol causes the embryo to detach from the uterus and be expelled by producing heavy uterine cramping.

Abortion pills are usually taken when the abortion is to take place at home. There are side effects, which include painful uterine cramps, nausea, vomiting, heavy bleeding, and passing blood clots. Serious risks, which would require medical attention, include heavy bleeding that does not stop, future infertility, and undetected ectopic pregnancy. Death is also possible.

Of the estimated 5.6 million women who have used the abortion pill for the termination of pregnancy through June 30 this year, the FDA acknowledges 28 deaths since the product was approved in September 2000, including two cases of ectopic pregnancy and several fatal cases involving severe systemic infection, also known as sepsis.

The FDA also acknowledges there were 98 injuries from using the abortion pill with undetected entopic pregnancies. In all, there were 1,473 reported cases of adverse events, 280 hospitalizations, 188 cases of blood loss that required transfusions, and 106 cases of severe infections.

On January 3, 2023, the FDA approved Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) modifications to the Mifepristone REMS Program.

Key changes include:

Pharmacies that become certified in the Mifepristone REMS Program may dispense the drug directly to patients upon receipt of a prescription from a certified prescriber, provided a Prescriber Agreement (pdf) has been provided or is on file with the certified pharmacy.

The in person requirement, which mandates that patients see healthcare providers at a physical locations and was temporarily removed during the COVID outbreak, has been permanently removed.

Chemical abortion drugs are dangerous, Blake asserted

One in five women who take chemical abortion drugs will suffer complications and seek medical attention. Our doctors care for these women when they have life-threatening infections, severe, uncontrolled bleeding, or have the inability to have a future successful pregnancy.

We see firsthand the harm caused by these chemical abortion drugs every day when they are dispensed online and delivered in the mail with no one there to help care for women when they go through this. Women and girls deserve better than the FDAs complete failure to protect them.
Anybody but Trump Right Now for Me, Says Rep. Ryan on 2024 Republican Convention

President Donald Trump greets Speaker of the House Paul Ryan during the National Republican Congressional Committee March Dinner at the National Building Museum in Washington on March 20, 2018. (Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images)

Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) has indicated that he might skip the partys national convention this year if former President Donald Trump is chosen as a nominee, blaming election losses on the former presidenta claim that Trump rebutted in a social media post.

When asked about where he will be during the July 2024 Republican National Convention scheduled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Ryan replied that it depends on who the nominee is. Ill be here if its somebody not named Trump, said in an interview given to WISN. As to endorsing Trump in the primary, Ryan said: I dont know. I havent thought about it. Right now, Im just for a non-Trump candidate because I think well win if we nominate somebody else  anybody but Trump right now for me.

Ryan does not think Trump will be on stage at the Republican convention as a nominee. I do not think hell be our nominee. The reason I dont think he will be our nominee is because we know we will lose with him, he said.

Ryan went on to insist that GOP losses in the 2018 elections, the 2020 presidential election, and the 2020 and 2022 Senate elections were all due to Trump.

This is a lesson we do not need to repeat again. And I think even die-hard Trump supporters know we are better off with somebody else, Ryan said while adding that Republicans will lose the state of Wisconsin if Trump is the GOP nominee.

Trump lashed out at Ryan, calling him a loser in a Feb. 27 Truth Social post. Paul Ryan is a loser, Mitt Romney could have won without him. I won twice, did much better the second time, and was 233 Wins out of 253 Races in the Midterms, Trump said.

Paul Ryan is destroying Fox, and couldnt get elected dogcatcher in the Republican Party! Ryan is currently a member of the Fox Corporation Board of Directors.

The RINO Issue

Calling himself a traditional, liberal, classic conservative, Ryan stated that the definition of RINO (Republican in name only), referring to party members who are not very loyal to the party ideology, has undergone a change.

Back in my day, a RINO was somebody who was more moderate versus conservative. Today, a RINO is how much fealty do you pledge to Donald Trump or not. I am very low on that. I did not pledge fealty to a person, I pledge to principles, Ryan said.

Back in March 2021, Trump stated that RINOs will harm the GOP and called for drying up funding for such party members.

No more money for RINOS, Trump said in a statement in March that year. They do nothing but hurt the Republican Party and our great voting basethey will never lead us to Greatness. Send your donation to Save America PAC at DonaldJTrump.com. We will bring it all back stronger than ever before!

2024 Republican Primary

The Republican Party intends to hold the first GOP presidential debate for 2024 in Milwaukee in August. The specifics of the first debate have not yet been defined. Trump and former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley have announced their bids for GOP nomination.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are also speculated to throw their hats in the presidential race.

Currently, Trump has a significant lead over other party members, according to multiple polls. Rasmussen Reports recent survey ranked Trump at the number one spot in terms of GOP voter candidate preferences, garnering 52 percent support, according to a Feb. 24 tweet.

The second-ranked potential candidate, DeSantis, could only garner 24 percent of votes, which is less than half what Trump received. Haley got the support of 15 percent of voters.
Army Secretary Says It Could Take Years to Recover From Recruiting Shortfalls

U.S. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth (L) and Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville testify during a Senate Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 10, 2022. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

U.S. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth says that resolving the military branchs recruiting problems remains one of her top priorities, although the recovery from recent enlistee shortfalls may stretch into 2024 or beyond.

It took us more than a year to get into the situation that were in, in terms of the recruiting landscape, and I think its going to take more than a year to turn it around, Wormuth said during a Feb. 23 panel discussion hosted by the Project for Media and National Security at George Washington University in Washington.

The Army missed its fiscal year 2022 recruiting goal by about 15,000 recruits, representing a 25 percent miss on the services 60,000 enlistee goal for the year. The Army has predicted the 2023 fiscal year will be another challenge for the service, leaving them with a further shortfall of 20,000 soldiers. This year, the Armys recruiting goal is 65,000 new soldiers.

We are really focused on a call to service. We have set a very ambitious recruiting target this year65,000, Wormuth said. Thats 5,000 more than, frankly, our goal was last year. We are pulling out all of the stops to try to do our very best to make that mission; that is a major priority for us this year.

The military has seen a number of factors contributing to its recruiting challenges in recent years. In September 2022, a study from the Pentagon shows that 77% of young Americans would not qualify for military service without a waiver due to being overweight, using drugs or having mental and physical health problems, Military.com reported.

Wormuth described the Army as being in a process of reintroducing itself to the American public. Military officials have said the COVID-19 pandemic played a role in undercutting recruiting because recruiters have traditionally relied on access to public schools to get young Americans interested in military service; many recruiters had little to no access to schools throughout 2020 and parts of 2021.

Some misperceptions about Army service may also have affected recruiting.

Ive noticed some awareness questions that really caught me off guard, like Hey, I was told that until I finish basic training and Advanced Individual Training, I cant get paid, or [I cant] own a pet as a soldier, Army Maj. Gen. Johnny Davis, commanding general of Army Recruiting Command, recently told Stars & Stripes. And certainly, all of these things are not true.

The Army also recently shared some internal survey findings with The Associated Press (AP), indicating that young Americans dont see military service as relevant to their lives. The Army shared the general findings of the survey data with the AP but didnt provide full details of the survey methodology.

Republicans See Wokeness Problem

Some Republican lawmakers have attributed the introduction of so-called wokeness into the military as a contributing factor to the recruiting challenges.

Wokeness at the DoD [Department of Defense] has harmed recruitment, retention, and morale, wasted service members time and taxpayers dollars, and undermined the apolitical character of the military, which is a major threat to democracy and the American way of life, said Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), the chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel and a U.S. Navy Reserve officer.

Banks and Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.)the first member of the Armys elite Green Berets to be elected to Congressrecently sent a letter to Wormuth, calling on her to provide the full details of the Armys recent recruiting surveys after the APs report minimized the impact of wokeness and the now-defunct military-wide COVID-19 vaccine mandate that played on Army recruiting.

Having spent my career as an Army officer and Green Beret, I am very concerned with the Armys ability to recruit and retain our nations best and brightest for military service, wrote Waltz, who continues to serve in the National Guard, while also serving as chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness.

Waltz and Banks wrote that the reported Army survey data stands in stark contrast to publicly available polling data on military recruiting. The lawmakers shared examples of other surveys that suggest growing concerns about the political nature of the military is a greater concern than the Army let on with the survey findings it shared with the AP.

In the AP article, you stated that the survey data is a tool to assuage the concerns that some may have, whether influencers or members of Congress, about wokeness or the vaccine mandatewhich is now rescindedand show they are not, by any means, primary drivers of the recruiting challenges were experiencing,' Waltz wrote.

In the interest of transparency, we call on the Army to publicly release its entire data set, instead of cherry-picking data to fit a narrative. This issue is critical to our national security, and of great importance to the American people.

Wormuths office didnt respond by press time to a request by NTD News for comment.

Debate Over Politicized Military

In summer 2020, as protests and riots over racial unrest spread throughout the country, the U.S. Army was caught sharing a training slide that listed then-President Donald Trumps Make America Great Again campaign slogan as an example of covert white supremacy.

In 2021, Waltz shared allegations of critical race theory training and seminars being conducted at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Addressing critical race theory during a June 2021 congressional hearing, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley said its important for members of the military to be widely read, before he stated, I want to understand white rage, and Im white.

After President Joe Biden and his administration implemented a military-wide COVID-19 vaccine mandate, in 2021, hundreds of U.S. troops were discharged from the military for remaining unvaccinated. In most cases, requests for religious accommodations to the vaccine mandate were rejected and some service members described the mandate as a tool for a political purge.

We get criticized, frankly, sometimes for being woke. Im not sure what woke means, Wormuth said in an October press conference. I think woke means a lot of different things to different people but first of all, I would say if woke means, you know, we are not focused on warfighting, we are not focused on readiness, that doesnt reflect what I see.

Democratic lawmakers have pushed back on criticisms of wokeness in the military. In December 2022, the then-Democratic majority on the House Armed Services Committee sidelined a debate over woke policies in the military. Then-Chairman Rep. Adam Smith (D-Wash.) even characterized criticisms of woke policies as posing a risk to recruiting.

At a time when [we] are short of personnel, excluding personnel for reasons other than their ability to do the job, is just stupid, he said at the time. This [resolution] does not help the military. This is not a good way to address serious issues.

Last month, Rep. Pat Ryan (D-N.Y.) told Military.com that its the GOPs claims of woke politics infiltrating the military, rather than the policies themselves, that are undermining public trust in the U.S. military.

I have zero time for the political distractions and BS, and I will very aggressively call that out, said Ryan, who is a West Point graduate and Army veteran.

From NTD News
Mr. Jan Greenberg and Mrs. Toby Pailes drove four hours from Houston to Dallas to attend Shen Yun's Feb. 26, 2023 matinee. (Sally Sun/The Epoch Times)

DALLASSince 2006, New York-based Shen Yun Performing Arts has become a global sensation, and with even with half a dozen companies touring the world simultaneously has not been able to keep up with audience demand.

This year, the 2023 tour is set to hit more than 180 cities around the world, with eight equally sized companies touring globally.

Audience members have reported being able to fulfill their dream of seeing Shen Yun after having missed sold-out shows several years in a row.

Mrs. Toby Pailes and Mr. Jan Greenberg, a retired army officer, drove four hours from Houston to Dallas after having missed it in both Houston and San Antonio. The couple attended the Feb. 26 matinee at the Winspear Opera House, which, like the three previous weekend shows in Dallas, sold out, prompting the addition of an evening performance that Sunday.

All the stories touched me, Mrs. Pailes said.

I loved the background; when they jumped down from the screen, I thought that was fantasticwhat a great idea, Mr. Greenberg said.

Curtis Collins, retired lieutenant general, attended the performance with his wife, who is Chinese, and commended Shen Yuns bravery for telling the truth about China, and showing the world that Chinese culture and the Chinese people are not at all represented by the Chinese Communist Party, which has only made the people of China suffer.

Its a beautiful tradition and culture that not many people get to experience, and theyre able to bring it to a lot of people, he said. Its justits wonderful. My wife and I both enjoyed it very much  We drove almost a hundred miles to come here to watch this.

The couple felt uplifted by the universal values and sense of hope from the performance and commended Shen Yuns mission to revive 5,000 years of Chinese civilization.

I think thats something they need to cling on to and preserve forever, Mr. Collins said.

Katrina Mohamed, a vice president in education, said after the show that what Shen Yun showed should be taught in schools.

For the children, for the adults, for everyone, she said. I wish more people were able to see it, really, because I think that tells such an amazing story that we just dont learn about.

All we teach are things that are negative, and we have forgotten the entire history of it, she said. I am going to share this with my schools.

I think if we could share this show with more people, it would create more support and create change. Which would be wonderful!

Ms. Mohamed said the experience was absolutely breathtaking and gorgeous.

So much talent, so much warmth, and feelings, she said. But it was also sad, heartbreaking to think what is occurring in China that is not able to be shared openly. So I am just honored to be here. It was just beautiful.

Reporting by Sally Sun and Yawen Hung.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Worlds Largest Coal Port to Transform Into Smart City

Disruptive new technology is becoming a reality in Newcastle, Australia. (Jessie Zhang/The Epoch Times)

With the help of American multinational digital communications technology corporation Cisco, Australia is transforming Newcastle into its first digitally active smart city.

Smart cities are innovative and digitised model cities that promise high-tech infrastructure, better broadband coverage, and transparency by unifying otherwise disparate data of city maintenance and governance into a single database.

Newcastle councils smart city coordinator Nathaniel Bavinton said he wanted to open Newcastle up for innovative experiments in order to thrive in the 21st century.

We really want to turn the city into an environment where people come to experiment, Bavinton told Australians vs. The Agenda.

He wants to build an Internet of Things (IoT) platform to better plan for the future, manage events better, and run the city more efficiently and sustainably.

Were not in the situation anymore where you need to buy from your next-door neighbour. Its a global marketplace, and well need to be competing in that global marketplace, Bavinton said.

So were gonna get smart parking, smart lighting, waste management, building and innovation hub.

Cisco has agreed to provide that reach for them.

The number one thing that theyve brought to us is time. Theyve invested time in the city to understand Newcastle, Bavinton said.

An Indian visitor looks at a model of a smart city at the Smart City Expo in New Delhi on May 20, 2015. The expo is showcasing sustainable living and environmental projects. (Sajjad Hussain/Getty Images)

Newcastle has the worlds largest coal port and is currently governed by the Labour Party, led by Councillor Nick Kemp.

The government says budget deficits, congestion, and lost jobs in the manufacturing sector, resources and energy sectors are the reasons for the genesis of its Smart cities plan in early 2017.

This follows the establishment of this model in Japan, Latin America and South Asia, with more Australian cities planned for the near future.

Surveillance Program

While smart cities propose improved investment and sustainability, it comes with costs to privacy and some freedoms.

Dr. Sean Lin, an assistant professor in Biomedical Science Department at Feitian CollegeMiddletown, NY and a veteran who served as a U.S. Army microbiologist, says that China is aggressively driving the development of smart cities.

There are a whole array of concerns on data privacy, data compatibility, data security, IoT stabilities, network stabilities, and challenges in future upgrades, Dr. Lin said.

Surveillance cameras are seen on a corner of Tiananmen Square in Beijing on Sept. 6, 2019. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

He said that smart cities do not give time and opportunity for some concerns or vulnerabilities to manifest in a natural way that can be handled.

If there is a severe drawback, loophole or weakness that emerges in the system design or specific technology in the future, then it might not be a sporadic outbreak, but rather a widespread endemic, Lin said.

Intelligence Alliance

The World Economic Forum (WEF) launched the G20 Global Smart Cities Alliance in 2019 to spawn smart cities around the world.

In collaboration with the presidents of the G20, WEF accelerated the adoption of smart cities during the outbreak of COVID-19 and recruited 36 cities across 22 countries by Nov. 2020 to the Alliance.

This is a commitment from the largest economies in the world to work together and set the norms and values for smart cities, President of the World Economic Forum Brge Brende said.

We will coordinate efforts so that we can all work in alignment to move this important work forward.
Beijing to Build a USSR-Style Internal Committee and Greatly Weaken Premier Li Qiangs Power

China's President Xi Jinping (L) waves with Li Qiang, a member of the Chinese Communist Party's new Politburo Standing Committee, the nation's top decision-making body, as they meet the media in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Oct. 23, 2022. (Wang Zhao/AFP via Getty Images)

News Analysis

Recently, Hong Kong media reported that Chinas Ministry of Public Security and Ministry of State Security will be separated from the State Council system and placed under the Central Internal Affairs Committee, a new institution directly under the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This new structure is modeled after the former Soviet Union. Analysts say that the newly appointed Chinese premier Li Qiang will take over the State Council at the CCPs Two Sessions in March, but with two of the State Councils powerful departments removed, Li will become the weakest premier in the history of the CCP.

Hong Kongs Ming Pao reported in a Feb. 23 article that every time there is a change of office, the CCPs State Council will have the so-called institutional reform, and this years reform is likely very drastic.

The Ministry of Public Security and Ministry of State Security are to be separated from the State Council system and transferred to the newly established Internal Affairs Committee. Drawing on the functional framework of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, this commission will integrate the functions of public security, immigration, household registration, transportation, counter-terrorism, counter-espionage, and even social organization management of the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the article said.

It also stated that the internal affairs committee will be headed by Wang Xiaohong, the CCPs current Minister of Public Security. However, it is unclear how the body will relate to the Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission, or whether the Ministry of State Securitys foreign intelligence function is also integrated into the agency.

U.S.-based China expert and current affairs commentator Shi Shan recently said on an NTD TV program that if the news of the reform is true, the Internal Affairs Committee, which is directly under the CCPs Central Committee, is somewhat like the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the former Soviet Union.

The KGB in the former Soviet Union was under the control of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, so it is estimated that the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of State Security will expand their powers and become similar to the KGB, which is the CCPs version of the KGB,  Shi said.

Therefore, the CCPs Party affairs system has increased executive power and is no longer limited to ideology work and decision-making. This means that the CCP takes direct control of armed forces, and the power to use force is no longer managed by the State Council, an administrative system.

Head of the New Agency

Zhang Tianliang, a political analyst and commentator living in the United States, pointed out in his YouTube program on Feb. 23 that the CCPs establishment of the Internal Affairs Committee may be an effort by the CCP head Xi Jinping to get a firm grip on the armed forces, and that the future destiny of Wang Xiaohong is unclear.

Zhang said the former Soviet Union had a Ministry of Internal Affairs, an agency that included police, security, and intelligence services, with the KGB being a subordinate agency of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. The CCPs newly established Internal Affairs Committee seems to have more power than the former Soviet Unions Ministry of Internal Affairs, so this Internal Affairs Committee is simply half of the government, and the State Council is further paralyzed.

The functions of the Internal Affairs Committee have actually covered the functions of the original Political and Legal Affairs Commission, but with even more power, because the former Political and Legal Affairs Commission did not manage traffic, passports, etc, it only managed matters related to political affairs, he said.

As Ming Pao believes that Wang Xiaohong, the current Minister of Public Security, will take charge of the new agency, Zhang pointed out that Wangs future role is rather unclear at this point.

What will be the relationship between him and the Political and Legal Affairs Commission? Many people will have this question, he said.

Zhang believes that although Wangs official rank is not high, he has a close relationship with Xi Jinping. Therefore, Xi may entrust him with important tasks at any time.

Li Qiang: the Weakest Premier

U.S.-based current affairs commentator Chen Pokong believes that Li Qiang will be the weakest premier in the 70 years of the CCPs history, by the time he takes over the State Council in March.

Chen said in his self-media program on Feb. 24 that Xi Jinpings structural reform is set to take place before Li Qiangs premiership, and this reform completely imitated the Stalinist model, that is, to control key positions, then to defeat and purge political opponents, and finally to monopolize power. Xi Jinping must also find someone to be Beria, and that person is Wang Xiaohong.

Lavrenty Beria was the most influential secret police chief during the Stalin era. He played a major role in Stalins Great Purges of the 1930s. But after Khrushchev succeeded Stalin in power, Beria was executed in December 1953.

Chen said that the CCPs creation of the Internal Affairs Committee had two meanings: first, to establish the Soviet model; and second, to weaken Li Qiangs power as premier.

This reform is just like the previous reorganization of the armed police. The armed police was originally under both the State Council and the Central Military Commission, but later, through a power struggle, Xi Jinping separated the Armed Police Force from the State Council and placed it under the Central Military Commission, which he commanded directly, Chen said. Now he further splits the Ministry of State Security and the Ministry of Public Security from the State Council, after which a so-called Internal Affairs Committee will be formed to establish a Soviet Union model.

This leaves Li Qiang with very little power, he said, adding that he will only have the human resources department, the natural resources department, or some departments related to finance and economics.

All powerful departments will have been moved out before Li takes office, so he was hollowed out in advance. He will indeed become the weakest premier in the history of the CCP, Chen said.

But Chen also said that the reform foreshadows a new power struggle within Xis clan.

Because there is already a political and legal committee headed by Chen Wenqing, the former minister of state security, he said. Now there is an internal affairs committee, and Wang Xiaohong will likely become the head.

How will these two systems coordinate and who will be in charge of what?

The political and legal affairs committee is originally under the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of State Security, and it is unlikely that the political and legal affairs committee will be abolished. As a result, Chen Wenqings system and Wang Xiaohongs system may engage in a power struggle at a certain point.
U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris deliver remarks at 5:00 p.m. ET on Feb. 27 at the White Houses party celebrating Black History Month.
Bidens Ukraine Visit Important to Stop Putin From Invading Others: Rep. Mike Lawler

President Joe Bidens secret trip to Ukraine on Feb. 20 left an important message for Russia and its ally China because if Russian President Vladimir Putin isnt stopped at Ukraine, hell very likely do the same with other former Soviet satellite states, according to Rep. Michael Lawler (R-N.Y.).

I think it is critically important that Vladimir Putin not be successful in this mission. If he is allowed to succeed, he will not stop there, Lawler said in an interview recorded on Feb. 22 on Capitol Report, a political news program on NTD, The Epoch Times sister media outlet.

And I am confident that if he succeeds in Ukraine, he will go into Moldova and other former Soviet satellite countries.

Lawler said that the visit was significant because the first anniversary of the Ukraine invasion is approaching and its important to continue to show Putin that theres a united opposition to his invasion of Ukraine and for violating its sovereignty.

And so, it is important that we speak with one voice that the United States and our allies around the world continue to oppose Russia, and provide Ukraine with the support that they need, militarily and financially to win this war, Lawler told the host, Steve Lance.

Putin did not directly respond to Bidens trip. However, in a state-organized event on Wednesday, he announced that Russia will pull out of the new START treaty with the United States, indicating that the country will ramp-up its nuclear armament.

I am forced to announce today that Russia is suspending its participation in the strategic offensive arms treaty, Putin said in his address to the nation on the occasion of the Defender of the Fatherland Day, a Russian holiday that honors the countrys armed forces.

The START treaty was signed in 2010 between President Barack Obama and his Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and it was the last intact nuclear arms control pact with the United States. It limited both countries to 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed missiles and bombers.

I think its just one more example of the irrational behavior that weve seen by Putin over the last a year plus. So, I think we need to continue to be firm and resolute in dealing with Russia and including looking at increasing sanctions, said Lawler.

He emphasized that the United States should ramp up its military aid to Ukraine so that it can expeditiously win the war. Really ensure that Vladimir Putins defeat is permanent.

Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with Chinas Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission Wang Yi at the Kremlin in Moscow on Feb. 22, 2023. (Anton Novoderezhkin/Sputnik/AFP via Getty Images)

RussiaChina Alliance

Lawler said that the outcome of the Ukraine crisis will have a direct impact on communist China, which he described as Americas greatest geopolitical foe.

What President Xi would do with respect to Taiwan if Russia is to succeed here! said Lawler.

Near the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Chinese regime released a 12-point peace plan on Friday.

Titled: Chinas Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, among other things it calls for abandoning what the CCP termed as cold war mentality.

Lawler is of the opinion that the CCP Chinese have long been in cahoots with Russia and they along with Iran and North Korea formulate the new axis of evil.

We need to ensure that the actions that we are taking, continue to put the United States in a strong position economically, militarily, and from a national security perspective, and that we are holding these bad actors accountable for what they are doing around the world to frankly undermine democracy and freedom across the globe, said Lawler.
Chinese Bank Says Missing Chairman Is Being Investigated by Authorities

Fan Bao, founder and CEO of China Renaissance, speaks at the WSJD Live conference in Laguna Beach, Calif., on Oct. 25, 2016. (Mike Blake/Reuters)

BEIJINGChina Renaissance Holdings said in an exchange filing on Sunday that its missing chairman and star dealmaker Bao Fan was currently cooperating with relevant Chinese authorities conducting an investigation.

This is the first time the mainland China-based boutique bank has given a reason for the disappearance of its founderwho was reported missing 10 days agothough no details about the investigation were shared.

The Board would like to reiterate that the business and operations of the Group are continuing normally, the bank said in the exchange filing.

Shares of the company slumped last week after it said in an exchange filing the company had been unable to contact Bao.

The dealmakers disappearance is the latest in a series of cases of high-profile Chinese executives going missing with little explanation during a sweeping anti-corruption campaign spearheaded by Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

In 2015 alone, at least five executives became unreachable without prior notice to their companies, including Fosun Group Chairman Guo Guangchang, who Fosun later said was assisting with investigations regarding a personal matter.

Baos disappearance also comes against the backdrop of more than two years of sweeping regulatory crackdown on technology companies.

Bao, also China Renaissances controlling shareholder, started the firm in 2005 as a two-person team, seeking to match capital-hungry startups with venture capitalist and private equity investors.

The firm later expanded into services including underwriting, sales and trading.

Known to be well connected in the corporate world, Bao was involved with tech mergers including the tie-up of ride-hailing firms Didi and Kuaidi, food delivery giants Meituan and Dianping, as well as travel platforms Ctrip and Qunar.
CIA Director: Russia Understands Seriousness and Consequences of Using Nuclear Weapons

As nuclear rhetoric from Russia escalates tensions with the West, Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) director William Burns said Russian spy chief, Sergey Naryshkin, understands there will be serious consequences for Russia if U.S. warnings against nuclear arms use in Ukraine are ignored.

During a Feb. 26 interview with the CBS talk show Face The Nation, Burns said, What [President Joe Biden] asked me to do, which was to make clear to Naryshkin, and through him to President Putin, the serious consequences should Russia ever choose to use a nuclear weapon of any kind.

The CIA director added, I think Naryshkin understood the seriousness of that issue, and I think President Putin has understood it as well.

The sobering words come just days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the countrys withdrawal from a key nuclear arms agreement with the United States.

On Feb. 22, Russia elected to suspend its participation in the New START arms treaty, an agreement that limits both nations from building up or launching nuclear weapons.

In November last year, Burns met with Naryshkin in Ankara, Turkey, to discuss the subject of nuclear weapons and U.S. prisoners. Reflecting on the November session during the Feb. 26 interview, the CIA director said the meeting with Naryshkin was pretty dispiriting and described Russias top intelligence officer as defiant.

There was a very defiant attitude on the part of Mr. Naryshkin, Burns said. A sense of cockiness and hubris, in sense reflecting Putins own view  that he can make time work for him, that he believes he can grind down Ukrainians, that he can wear down our European allies, that political fatigue will eventually set in.

On Feb. 22, the Russian State Duma supported Putins measure to suspend the New START treaty. Going forward, only the president can make the decision to reenter the agreement.

Moscow representatives told local reporters the same day that before continuing with the New START treaty, there must first be a tally of not just the nuclear arsenals of the United States, but also of other NATO powers.

Kremlin officials said that Russia would continue to participate in the exchange of notifications with Washington regarding the launch of intercontinental and submarine-launched ballistic missiles, per the 1988 agreement between the Soviet Union and the United States.

In the Sunday interview, Burns said he thinks Putin believes the United States and other Western allies of Ukraine will eventually turn their attention elsewhere once they exhaust their resources, giving Russia a chance to win the war by playing the long game.
CPAC to Focus on Protecting America Now

Draft Schedule for CPAC DC 2023 Now Available

This week in the nations capital, the worlds largest and most influential gathering of conservatives will focus on Protecting America Now, Matt Schlapp, chairman of the Conservative Political Action Coalition (CPAC), told The Epoch Times.

We feel like the Biden administration is not protecting America now, Schlapp said, and we want to call for that to start to be reversed immediately.

CPAC, a grassroots organization that dates back a half-century, released its full schedule for the March 14 event on Feb. 27.

The first speaker on the agenda is U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio). Jordans prominence on the schedule signifies his importance as chairman of the powerful House Judiciary Committee, Schlapp said. Republicans regained control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the November 2022 midterm election.

Helping to wrap up the final day of the conference will be former President Donald Trump, who is now running to become the Republican Partys presidential nominee again.

Other speakers include Trumps two declared challengers, biotechnology entrepreneur and author Vivek Ramaswamy and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. At last check, a long-rumored potential contender, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, was absent from the schedule. But organizers say some speakers were still being finalized.

Here is the schedule obtained exclusively by The Epoch Times:

Presidential Kickoff

The event serves as the unofficial starters gun to kick off the presidential campaign season, Schlapp said; attendees expect to hear from the person who will be the next president of the United States, he said.

As previously reported, DeSantis faces an unusual hurdle to any potential presidential run: Florida law would require him to resign from the governorship if he were to qualify to hold a federal office during his unfinished term. But the law is somewhat unclear as to when he would have to resign if the law remains unchanged.

Attendees also will hear from other powerful voices in the American conservative movement, including Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chairman of the House Oversight Committee; Trumps son, Donald Trump Jr.; and non-politicians such as news media representatives and industry leaders.

Comer and Jordan are going to be galactically impactful, Schlapp predicted, and I think that is were gonna spend a lot of time talking about that.

CPAC says it brings together hundreds of conservative organizations, thousands of activists, millions of viewers and the best and brightest leaders in the world.

Everyday People Involved

Whats great about CPAC is its not all about big donors. Its about grassroots activists, Schlapp said. People wearing T-shirts and sneakers have a front-row seat to hear from some of the nations most influential conservative leaders. Anyone who plunks down the registration fees can attend.

Its a three-day crash course in the state of your country in the Constitution, Schlapp added. You will hear from all the experts on all the threats and all the opportunities, all the elected officials who are making a difference. I mean, its like its almost too much.

The organization, which dates back to 1964 and has held conferences since 1974, returned its conference to the D.C. swamp with some trepidation, Schlapp said.

Most people have abandoned these big, broken blue cities and moved to red America,' Schlapp said, referring to Democrat vs. Republican areas. Its hard to get red America to want to come back to the nations capital. But I think they also feel compelled to reclaim the idea that this is their capital, too. And I think theyre really encouraged  that Republicans will do the right thing with the majority theyve gotten in the House. Theyre excited to hear from President Trump and others who want to be the nominee.

Many Threats Face US

Asked about the top threats to the United States, Schlapp rattled off a laundry list of concerns, ranging from school boards indoctrinating children with leftist ideology to national security imperiled by a porous southern border and our nations airspace traversed by Chinese spy balloons.

Its an alarming time; were not protecting this country, Schlapp said. Were not protecting our founding document, the Constitution. Were not protecting our border, were not protecting our families. Were not protecting people so that they can be secure in their homes.

Instead, he said, our safety forces, including police and the military are under attack. We are on the wrong course in every wayand that those are not my opinions; look at the polls, he said.

Poll Helps Guide Priorities

A straw poll is a fixture at CPAC, and it will reveal what attendees think about some of the biggest issues. And the results of that poll will help guide the conservative movement.

Despite the challenges America is facing, Schlapp remains optimistic about our nations future: We have what other people just dont have. We have the American people, and they are a good and decent and tolerant people.

Our nation has traditionally rewarded success and innovation and has remained strong because we put God at the center of things. And weve done it in a way where we still fight for religious freedom for people to practice their faith as they see it, Schlapp said.

He hopes attendees leave inspired.

I get told that CPAC is much like a revival, he said. You feel enthused. You feel like you can still save this country. You feel like your voice can make a difference.
Criminals Found Workarounds to Bypass $77 Million Electronic Visa Security Program: Immigration Report

A Canada Border Services Agency officer speaks with a traveller at the Nexus office at the airport in Ottawa, May 8, 2012. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Criminals have found ways to bypass Canadas multimillion-dollar electronic visa system intended to maintain national security and public safety, according to a federal report released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in early February.

Those with malicious intent, including associations with fraud and human trafficking/smuggling movements, have found workarounds, according to the report titled Evaluation of the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) Program and dated August 2022.

One of the programs main goals was pushing out the border, according to the report, meaning to pre-screen and identify foreign nationals who are inadmissible to Canada and prevent them from travelling to the country. However, immigration officers reported that the eTA only had a small or moderate benefit to security-related outcomes. Less than 25 percent of officers surveyed felt that the electronic visa acted as a deterrent to those with intentions to misuse/abuse eTA.

IRCC received 11,527,034 eTA applications from air travellers over the first three full years of mandatory enforcement of the program, from 2017 to 2019.

The report noted that the number of refusals increased each year, and certain countries accumulated more refusals. Of the over 11.5 million applicants, 104,839 (0.9 percent) were rejected after background checks. Another 38,788 (0.34 percent) who successfully obtained an electronic visa were subsequently refused entry at the border, mainly based on serious criminality or misrepresentation.

The report says security would be improved if the Canadian government captures passport information through digital methods, like scanning the passport, rather than allowing applicants to input information manually. More digital technology would help improve program integrity while simultaneously ensuring unintentional mistakes do not result in delays or refusals. Digital capture may also provide greater confidence to airlines, travellers and eTA decision-makers that applications contain accurate details, suggested the document.

Low-Risk Foreign Nationals

Under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), every foreign national coming to Canada needs a temporary resident visa (TRV) unless they are exempt, and TRV-exempt individuals may require an eTA.

The eTA program was announced in 2011 as a commitment under a Canada-U.S. border action plan agreement, to create a common approach to screening TRV-exempt foreign nationals in order to identify threats before they reach the North American perimeter.

The program became mandatory in March 2016, with the requirement that low-risk visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to or transiting through Canada by air must go online to apply for an eTA before travelling to Canada.

The eTA asks travellers to provide their biographic and passport information, such as name, birthdate, email address, and place of residence, for background security checks. Applicants are also required to answer questions about their immigration and travel history, criminal background, and medical history.

Of the over 11.5 million eTA applications received by IRCC from 2017 to 2019, 98.6 percent were approved, 0.9 percent were refused, and 0.5 percent were withdrawn. More than 88 percent processed to a final decision, whether approved or refused, were adults, and 84.4 percent completed their applications in English, indicated the report.

Some refusals could be due to errors, noted the report. The eTA program relies in part on client accuracy when completing applications. When clients make errors unintentionally, they may receive an eTA approval only to be denied boarding at an airport when information doesnt align with their travel documents, it said.

Of the 10,530,857 unique travellers applying for an electronic visa, 14.8 percent were from the United Kingdom, 13.7 percent from France, 8.9 percent from Mexico, and 6.3 percent from Australia.

Most applications are approved by conducting automated databases. Some are flagged for manual review, at which point immigration officers can request further documents or security screening.

The report found that while the program is preventing some inadmissible individuals from coming to Canada, the programs contribution to security objectives could be improved.

According to Blacklocks Reporter, numerous technical issues resulted in the program being delayed and dramatically over budget. While it was originally intended to cost $35 million, actual costs ended up being over $77 million.

The initial charge of $5.50 per electronic visa, eventually raised to $7.00, was intended to fully cover the cost of the program without burden on taxpayers. The report did not indicate if costs at any point exceeded the amount charged.
Curious Case of Grayscale and the Big Bitcoin Discount

Commentary

Anyone who watched television during 2022 saw the ubiquitous TV commercials for Grayscale, which manages the world biggest Bitcoin investment fund. Those ads touted Bitcoin as the future and should be part of a retirees portfolio.

But investors in Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) are facing both a problem and an opportunity.

The problem? GBTC trades at a 46 percent discount to its underlying holdings, as of Feb. 24. This means the per-share value of the fund is 46 percent less than the Bitcoins held in the funds portfolio. No doubt the ongoing legal issues facing Digital Currency Group (DCG), the parent company of Grayscale, is one factor in the large discount.

The opportunity is that if the fund were to trade up to its net asset valueand that is one giant ifinvestors would realize an 84 percent gain.

Non-traded funds such as real estate investment trusts (REITs) and business-development companies pricing below asset value isnt a new phenomenon. There can be factors such as supply and demand and quality of the underlying asset that could drive this spread. But a discount of up to 50 percent? Thats almost unheard of, and it amounts to around $7 billion of trapped value.

The simple explanation for such a wide spread is investors are concerned about challenges at DCG, a cryptocurrency conglomerate of sort. DCG is backed by none other than SoftBank, which seems to have its hand in a number of failed or failing startups. DCG owns Grayscale, crypto news media CoinDesk, Bitcoin miner Foundry, a small London-based crypto exchange named Luno, and crypto brokerage and lending giant Genesis Capital. The last company, Genesis Capital, is currently under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, after its lending arm blew up after last years crypto rout and FTXs collapse.

DCG has been selling its stakes in various investment vehicles run by Grayscale, according to regulatory filings. Despite GBTC and its Ether-focused fund trading below their asset values, DCG presumably has needed to raise cash by all means necessary to support Genesis during bankruptcy. The Financial Times also reported that DCG retained investment bank Lazard to explore a sale of CoinDesk.

A competitor has also targeted Grayscale. Osprey Funds, which also runs several crypto-focused investment funds, sued Grayscale in January for putting out misleading marketing statements to gain market share.

Grayscale has made materially false and misleading statements in its advertising and promotion  that turning its Bitcoin asset management services into access to a Bitcoin ETF was a foregone conclusion, when it knew that access was never likely to happen, the complaint, filed in the Connecticut Superior Court, alleges.

Clearly, these financial and competitive difficulties at parent company DCG is not lost on GBTC investors which contribute to the giant discount.

Lets examine the last point in the Osprey complaint, as its an important factor in GBTC trading below its fair value.

GBTC is not an exchange-traded fund (ETF). It also holds actual Bitcoins. There are Bitcoin-focused ETFs, such as the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy Fund, but all of them invest in Bitcoin futures, not Bitcoin itself. Futures are regulated by the Commodities and Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the United States.

Grayscale (and many other asset managers) has tried to convert its GBTC fund to an ETF for years, without success. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has rejected every single application so far. The SEC argues that, unlike futures, the spot Bitcoin is unregulated and the market is ripe with manipulation and potential fraud.

To Grayscale, the best way to eliminate this massive discount is to convert to an ETF. And it sued the SEC to force its hand, with oral arguments set to begin in Washington, D.C., in early March. If successful, it may be a pathway to unlock the approximate $7 billion.

In the meantime, institutional and activist investors are circling Grayscale.

One group of investors, called RedeemGBTC, wants the fund manager to reduce its 2 percent management fee, which is calculated on the underlying Bitcoin holdings, not the discounted share price, which inflates the fees earned by Grayscale.

Hedge Fund Fir Tree filed a lawsuit against Grayscale in December alleging mismanagement and severe conflicts of interest. The fund believes that Grayscale and DCG have very little incentive to act in the best interest of investors because they are earning lucrative fees that arent affected by the discount to fair value.

Will the $7 billion of value ever be unlocked and returned to shareholders? Or will Grayscale be remembered as another high-profile failed crypto venture?

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
UK Defence Committee Chair Calls for Inquiry After Chinese-Made Security Cameras Found at Army Bases

The chairman of the UK Defence Select Committee has called for an inquiry after an investigation found that surveillance cameras from Chinese technology companies Hikvision and Dahua are still in use at British army bases, months after they should have been replaced over security concerns.

In November 2022, the UK government banned the installation of new surveillance equipment from China on sensitive government sites, and more than a year after the Ministry of Defence reportedly issued guidance to not use or install Hikvision cameras.

According to an investigation by The Mail on Sunday, Hikvision or Dahua cameras were seen at the entrances to six army bases.

The report said Hikvision cameras were seen at sites including an army training and weapons testing site at Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich, and the Westminster Barracks of the 1st Battalion London Guard, while Dahua cameras were found at Hyde Park Barracks, minutes away from Buckingham Palace.

The investigators visited a dozen other sites but couldnt get close enough to identify the brands of the surveillance cameras.

A Hikvision camera is presented at an electronic mall for sale in Beijing, China, on May 24, 2019. (Fred Dufour/AFP via Getty Images)

Hikvision and Dahua, both ultimately controlled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), were blacklisted in 2019 by the U.S. Commerce Department for being implicated in enabling human rights violations and abuses against Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other members of Muslim minority groups in Chinas Xinjiang region through the use of high-technology surveillance.

The UKs surveillance watchdog, Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner Fraser Sampson, has repeatedly voiced concerns over the use of Hikvision and Dahua in the UK, including security risks and human rights implications.

Surprised that the British Army is using Chinese camera systems that Beijing deploys to monitor its own population, Defence Select Committee Chairman Tobias Ellwood said there should be a Cabinet-led inquiry while the defence ministry should act now to ensure their systems arent relying on Chinese surveillance technology.

Former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith also said the defence ministry has to accept what has gone wrong and say we are now putting it right and getting rid of all the cameras.

Former Conservative Party leader, MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith in an undated file photo. (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA Media)

In December last year, Duncan Smith said he had made a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to every government department, asking about their possession and use of Hikvision cameras.

While the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department of Health and Social Care, and the Wales Office answered his questions completely openly, and talked of getting rid of the cameras, all other departments, including the MoD, the Home Office, and the Foreign Office, refused to answer the questions, citing security reasons.

Duncan Smith told The Mail that he believes these departments still have cameras made by Hikvision and Dahua, the report said.

We take the security of our sites very seriously and have a range of measures in place to scrutinise the integrity of our arrangements, an MoD spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email. It is wrong to suggest our sites are compromised.

Hikvision and Duahua, which have previously denied involvement in human rights abuses, didnt respond to requests by The Epoch Times for comment.

In a statement to The Mail, a Hikvision spokesperson said: Technical analysis of our products have never indicated they are a threat to the national security of the UK.

It is regrettable that some individuals have been willing to politicise a critical element of the countrys security architecture, thus reducing public trust in the vital work our products support.

Hikvision headquarters in Hangzhou, in eastern Chinas Zhejiang Province on May 22, 2019. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

Under Chinas national intelligence law, all organisations and citizens are required to support, assist, and cooperate with national intelligence efforts.

Hikvisions controlling shareholder is the China Electronics Technology HIK Group, a subsidiary of state-owned China Electronics Technology Group Corp. (CETC), one of Chinas big 10 state-owned military industrial groups.

The company was founded under the auspices of CETCs 52nd Research Institute to make a profit after the 9/11 terrorist attack made a splash in the global security and surveillance market, according to a Sina Finance feature on Hikvision.

Fu Lihua, Dahuas founder and biggest shareholder, also is the CCP secretary of the company.

According to feature reports on Fu, before founding Dahua, he was assigned after college to work at Tongda electronic equipmenta military-owned factory.

In a speech at a CCP event in 2018, Fu said the company was armed with CCP leader Xi Jinpings new socialism with Chinese characteristics and vowed to always follow the party and contribute to the China dream with Dahua.

Conor Healy, director of government research at the security and surveillance industry research group IPVM, previously told The Epoch Times that there are quite significant security risks in using Hikvision and Dahua equipment. He also argued that the companies, which provide custom-designed surveillance systems to Chinese authorities, are directly responsible for the scale of human rights abuses in Xinjiang.

Recent research by IPVM found that Hikvision has activated alarms to aid the Chinese regime in tracking protesters and adherents of Falun Gonga spiritual practice based on the tenets of truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance that is severely persecuted by the Chinese regime.

Dahua surveillance cameras can identify Uyghurs from within a crowd, and issue Uyghur warnings to the CCP police, a separate IPVM study said.
Rep. Moulton: Not Entirely Surprised by Energy Departments COVID Lab Leak Assessment

Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) said he was not entirely surprised by the Department of Energys (DOE) assessment that a lab leak was the likely cause of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Im not entirely surprised. The Chinese have mishandled COVID at every step of the way by trying to sweep it under the rug. Trying to try a strategy of zero COVID that utterly failed, Moulton told CNN on Feb. 26. And tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands of Chinese are dead as a result of the mismanagement of this pandemic by the Chinese Communist Party.

So for it to come out that the whole thing started because of mismanagement, I mean, look, we need to see whether this is true, but if it is, I dont find it surprising at all.

The Wall Street Journal reported Feb. 26 on a classified document the Energy Department sent to the White House and crucial members of Congress. There is low confidence in the conclusion, intelligence officials told WSJ and CNN. That conclusion means that the assessment cannot be said with absolute certainty.

The Epoch Times has reached out to the Department of Energy for comment. A DOE spokesperson did not confirm the classified documents existence but told WSJ and CNN that the department continues to support the thorough, careful, and objective work of our intelligence professionals in investigating the origins of COVID-19, as the president directed.

There has been speculation over the past few years that the pandemic originated in a virology lab in Wuhan, China.

Appearing on CNN Feb. 26, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan did not confirm the DOEs assessment.

He said that there is a variety of views in the intelligence community. Some elements of the intelligence community have reached conclusions on one side, some on the other. A number of them have said they just dont have enough information to be sure.

Heres what I can tell you. President Biden has directed repeatedly every element of our intelligence community to put effort and resources behind getting to the bottom of this question. And one of the things in that Wall Street Journal report which I cant confirm or deny, but I will say the reference to the Department of Energy, President Biden specifically requested that the National Labs, which are part of the Department of Energy, be brought into this assessment because he wants to put every tool at use to be able to figure out what happened here, said Sullivan.

And if we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress and we will share it with the American people. But, right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question.

The DOE and FBI have concluded that the pandemic originated in a lab, while the Office of the Director of National Intelligence has said that it was most likely caused by natural exposure to an animal infected with it or a close progenitor virusa virus that probably would be more than 99 percent similar to SARS-CoV-2.

China rejected the WSJs report.

The origin of the novel coronavirus is a scientific issue and should not be politicized, said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Feb. 27.
East Palestine Residents Say Theyve Been Diagnosed With Bronchitis After Train Derailment

A black plume rises over East Palestine, Ohio, as a result of a controlled detonation of a portion of the derailed Norfolk Southern trains, on Feb. 6, 2023. (Gene J. Puskar/AP Photo)

Residents who live near the toxic site of the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment have said theyve been diagnosed with bronchitis associated with exposure to chemicals.

Melissa Blake, who lives within a mile of the train derailment site, said she was diagnosed with bronchitis after she started coughing up gray mucus and was having difficulty breathing two days after the crash. Blake told NBC News that she went to the emergency room on the day she evacuated, Feb. 3.

They gave me a breathing machine. They put me on oxygen. They gave me three types of steroids, Blake said, adding that she has not gone back home to East Palestine since she was discharged from the hospital several weeks ago.

Deborah Weese, a nurse practitioner at Quickmed Columbiana, told NBC that shes evaluated between five and 10 people per day who have symptoms consistent with exposure to toxic chemicals. She said she has listed exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals as a possible cause of ailments, including bronchitis, for people who work or live near the derailment site.

Theyre complaining of burning to their lungs, nasal drainage, eyes burning, throat pain, unknown rashes that have started since theyve been back to their homes, she said.

Howard Yang, a manager at CeramFab, a manufacturing company near the derailment site, told the outlet that half of its workers were too sick to work as of Feb. 21. The firm suspended operations for a week due to the release and burning of vinyl chloride, a highly toxic chemical that was being transported by the train.

When his employees started working again on Feb. 13, they started dropping like flies, he told the outlet.

People ended up with rashes, nausea, vomiting, bloody nose, eye issues. A lot of coughing, wheezing, Yang added. We sent a lot of workers to the hospital to get checked out and, sure enough, in most cases, it was a diagnosis of chemical bronchitis. They were put on five different kinds of pills, including steroids. Some guys have to use inhalers. Its pretty bad.

During last weeks Pennsylvania Senate hearing, East Palestine resident Lonnie Miller said she developed a rash on her face. One of my very best friends has been diagnosed already with chemical bronchitis because she lives right next to the creek, Miller also said at the hearing, according to reports.

Since the derailment, other East Palestine residents have complained of similar symptoms to other news outlets. Over the weekend, resident Wade Lovett said that after the release of chemicals into the air, his voice now sounds like Mickey Mouse.

EPA officials knock on doors and talk to residents in East Palestine, Ohio, on Feb. 16, 2023. Residents of the Ohio village upended by a freight train derailment are demanding to know if theyre safe from the toxic chemicals that were released and burned off to avoid a deadly explosion. (Lucy Schaly/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP)

My normal voice is low. Its hard to breathe, especially at night, he told the New York Post. My chest hurts so much at night I feel like Im drowning. I cough up phlegm a lot. I lost my job because the doctor wont release me to go to work.

Locals have also reported witnessing animals dying off, including chickens, fish, foxes, cats, and more. Officials last week said that an estimated 43,000 fish and other aquatic animals were found dead in nearby streams and rivers.

Late last week, researchers with Texas A&M and Carnegie Mellon University said that air monitoring revealed that nine out of 50 chemicals tested were at higher concentrations than normal. If these levels continue, they may be of health concern, they wrote on Twitter.

Their analysis showed that vinyl chloride, benzene, naphthalene, and acrolein were seen at higher-than-usual levels. They flagged acrolein, which is highly irritating to the skin and eyes, as one of particular concern.

But a spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) told The Epoch Times that its data shows that exposure levels of the 79 monitored chemicals are below levels of concern. The analysis of chemicals in the air done by Texas A&M also assume a lifetime of exposure, or about 70 years, the spokesperson said.

More Details

All of the rail cars except for the 11 cars held by the National Transportation Safety Board have been removed from the site, which will allow excavation of additional contaminated soil and installation of monitoring wells to check for groundwater contamination, said Anne Vogel, director of the Ohio EPA.

No one was injured when 38 Norfolk Southern cars derailed in a fiery, mangled mess on the outskirts of town, but as fears grew about a potential explosion due to hazardous chemicals in five of the rail cars, officials evacuated the area. They later opted to release and burn toxic vinyl chloride from the tanker cars, sending flames and black smoke billowing into the sky again.

Federal and state officials have repeatedly said its safe for evacuated residents to return to the area and that air testing in the town and inside hundreds of homes hasnt detected any concerning levels of contaminants. The state says the local municipal drinking water system is safe, and bottled water is available for those with private wells.

Despite those assurances, many residents have expressed a sense of mistrust or have lingering questions about what they have been exposed to and how it will impact the future of their families and communities.

Do not feel theyve been upfront, local John Hammer told CBS Pittsburgh last week. Not from day one.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Elon Musk, Scott Adams, Academia, and the Media Call Each Other Racist

SpaceX owner and Tesla CEO Elon Musk arrives on the red carpet for the Axel Springer Award 2020 in Berlin, Germany, on Dec. 1, 2020. (Britta Pedersen-Pool/Getty Images)

Legacy media outlets reported with insinuations of racism on Elon Musks accusations of the media and elite colleges and high schools being racist against white and Asian people. His tweets came in reply to the controversy surrounding Scott Adams remarks last Wednesday when he concluded that half of black people are racists.

The controversy began with a Rasmussen poll that asked black people Do you agree or disagree with the statement its okay to be white? The results showed that 46 percent of the black respondents didnt agree.

It should be mentioned that the statement Its okay to be white does not exist in isolation. While ostensibly innocuous and inoffensive, according to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), the statement has its own historyit originated as an online trolling campaign on 4chan.org.

The purpose was to use a harmless statement to trigger anti-racism fanatics, thus exposing them as (anti-white) racists themselves. The slogan was later embraced by white supremacists, thus giving the statement an extremist connotation. As such, the slogan is laden with two contrasting meanings: its literal meaning and its political affiliation. This important distinction was not made very clear by the poll itself.

Scott Adams, creator of the Dilbert cartoon, interpreted the polling results as proof that half of Black Americans hate Whites.

That actually  Thats like a real poll, Adams replied, somewhat horrified. If nearly half of black people are not okay with white people, according to this poll, Adams said, thats a hate group. And I dont want anything to do with them.

Adams went on: Based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to white people is to get the hell away from black people, because theres no fixing this. This cant be fixed. He said he was no longer going to try to be helpful to black America. Ive been doing it all my life and the only outcome is I get called a racist. Adams concluded by adding that he was sick of seeing, almost on a daily basis, videos on social media of Black Americans beating up non-black citizens.

Numerous newspapers immediately dropped the Dilbert cartoon, and today, comic strip distributor Andrews McMeel Universal announced it has severed all ties with Adams.

To a tweet mocking the medias framing of Adams as racist but not the 20 million black people who think its not OK to be white, Musk responded by stating: The media is racist. For a very long time, US media was racist against non-white people, now theyre racist against whites & Asians. Same thing happened with elite colleges & high schools in America. Maybe they can try not being racist.

Another tweet read: Adams comments werent good. But theres an element of truth to this [] its complicated. We were on the right path to colorblindness and need to return to it. To which Musk replied: Exactly.

Musk called the media reporting of police violence very disproportionate to promote a false narrative. He further acknowledged a tweet showing a statistical correlation between increased media focus on racism and declining race relations.

Musk has been accused of racism and being right-wing after he lifted speech restrictions on Twitter, and for his outspoken opposition to what he calls the woke mind virus.

In response to Musks tweets, Brian Levin, a civil rights attorney and director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University told CNBC:

Systemic racism requires not only widespread bigotry to be held within a group but also a structural component that allows discrimination and oppression to be imposed on a minority because of an advantage of access and power. A white billionaire from South Africa who recently lost a high profile racial discrimination case may not be in the best position to offer counsel.

A couple of legacy media outlets reported on Musks tweets with their trademark innuendo, insinuating that the Tesla and Twitter CEO is a racist as well. Tesla has been repeatedly sued for racial discrimination, the CNBC article opened, adding that Musk was espousing his views without providing evidence. HuffPos angle was that Musk retweeted content that appeared to support what Adams said. The Washington Post headline read: Musk Defends Dilbert Creator.

In a recent tweet, Musk used a 100 percent emoji to show agreement with an all-caps tweet from @jason that screamed: 99% OF AMERICANS ARE LOVING AND GET ALONG BRILLIANTLY WITH EACH OTHER  THE MEDIA & POLITICAL PARTIES ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US SO THEY CAN CONTROL AND MONETIZE US.

From NTD News
Energy Giant Moves Quietly to Erase Taiwan

Taiwanese flags at the Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan in Taipei, Taiwan, on Dec. 26, 2022. (Ann Wang/Reuters)

A British-Australian energy giant has chosen to erase Taiwan from its financial statements, deciding instead to list all revenue from the autonomous region as from Greater China.

Taiwan has been a self-governing democracy since the Chinese civil war ended in 1949. However, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) regards Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be united with mainland China by any means necessary.

Rio Tinto, one of the worlds largest metal and mining corporations, made the decision to merge Taiwanese revenue data with those of Greater China in its 2022 Full Year Data Report (pdf).

Consolidated sales revenue by destination has been adjusted to classify Taiwan and China together as Greater China; previously Taiwan was included in Asia (excluding Greater China and Japan), the report said. This change has resulted in a decrease in 2021 revenue attributable to Asia (excluding Greater China and Japan) of: 2.5 percent and US$1,570 million.

Previously, Taiwanese revenues were classified as part of Other Asian Regions in the annual reports.

The Epoch Times reached out to Rio Tinto to confirm that the change was correct and to comment on the reason behind the decision. However, a spokesperson for the company only noted that the change was in its latest full-year account from 2022 and did not provide remarks on the reasoning for the change.

The company, which was founded in 1873 and is domiciled in both the UK and Australia, is the worlds second-biggest mining and metal corporation and one of the worlds primary suppliers of iron ore, uranium, Lithium bauxite, aluminium, diamonds, salt and borates.

Currently, Rio Tinto runs mining operations in Australia, Canada, Iceland, Madagascar, Mongolia, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States.

In 2020, the company was listed by Forbes as being the worlds 114th largest public company, and according to the 2022 full-year accounts, it earned $13.3 billion.

China Makes Taiwan Ambitions Clear

The decision from the mining giant to amalgamate the two territories comes as the CCPs leader Xi Jinping has made clear his intentions to reunify the two territories by 2027.

CIA Director William Burns said on Feb. 3 that the CIA was aware as a matter of intelligence that Xi has ordered his military to be prepared to invade Taiwan by 2027.

Our assessment at CIA is that I wouldnt underestimate President Xis ambitions with regard to Taiwan, Burns said at an event at Georgetown University in Washington.

Chinese incursions into Taiwanese territory have occurred virtually daily as the CCP has increased military pressure on the self-ruled island. Recently, Taiwans military detected 23 Chinese aircraft and four vessels on Feb. 2, with 17 of the aircraft crossing the Taiwan Straits median line.

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu previously noted on Jan. 18 that China is more likely to make a move against Taiwan in 2027 as he believed that Xi might see aggression against Taiwan as a way to leave a legacy from his third term in office.

In 2027, Xi Jinping is likely to go into his fourth term. And if in his previous three terms, he cannot claim any achievement during his office, he might need to think about something else for him to claim as his achievement or his legacy, Wu said in an interview with Sky News.

Chinese Regime Tied to Rio Tinto

While the change was surprising for many investors, Rio Tinto has significant ties to the CCP, with more than 54 percent of its revenue being generated in China in 2022. CCP state-owned mining business Chinalco is also the companys largest shareholder holding just over 14 percent ownership.

This is the largest stake Chinalco can obtain in Rio Tinto, given a ruling from Australias Foreign Investment and Review Board which declared that any Chinese stake of 15 percent or higher would be illegal.

The ruling followed Chinalcos attempt to purchase a greater share of Rio Tinto in 2008 during the Global Financial Crisis.

The next largest shareholder in the company is investment company Blackrock which, via three different investing funds, holds around eight percent of the Anglo-Australian mining giant.

The Epoch Times reached out to Blackrock for comment on the change in recognition of Taiwan but was told by Vice President Christopher M. Berger that the company has a firm policy of not commenting on specific companies.

The change in how Rio Tinto accounts for Taiwanese revenues comes one year after China expert and former Canadian Ambassador to China Dominic Barton became the companys chairman.

Barton was ambassador during 2019-2021 and oversaw the negotiations for the release of two Canadian citizens who had been held in China on charges of espionage.

Aldagra Fredly contributed to this report.
Environmental Catastrophe: Ohio Residents Launch Class Action Against Railroad Firm Over Derailment

Ron Fodo, Ohio EPA Emergency Response, looks for signs of fish and also agitates the water in Leslie Run creek to check for chemicals that have settled at the bottom following the train derailment prompting health concerns in East Palestine, Ohio, on Feb. 20, 2023. (Michael Swensen/Getty Images)

Residents of East Palestine, Ohio, have filed a class action lawsuit against Norfolk Southern Corp., alleging that the railroad companys negligent actions in the wake of a Feb. 3 derailment and chemical spill had created an environmental catastrophe.

Noting that Norfolk Southern took two hours to file a report on the crash, Youngstown, Ohio, attorney Nils Johnson Jr. of the Johnson and Johnson law firm said in a Feb. 24 statement that that delayalong with the companys decision to burn off the hazardous chemicals the train was carryingamounted to negligence.

Norfolk Southerns misguided cleanup effort unleashed a chemical warfare agent on the residents of East Palestine, noted the attorney, who will serve as co-counsel representing the East Palestine residents.

One of the chemicals burned off in the controlled release was vinyl chloride, a toxic chemical that, when burned, releases other toxic chemicals, including phosgene, a gas that was used extensively as a chemical weapon during World War I.

The companys negligence didnt just lead to this tragic disaster, it amplified the fallout considerably, Johnson added, and Norfolk Southerns delayed response and eventual actions only added fuel to this fire.

In filing the Feb. 23 complaint (pdf), Johnsons firm teamed up with national class action firm Hagens Berman, which took on the tobacco industry in the 1990s and helped to secure the largest civil settlement in history.

Among their allegations against Norfolk Southern, attorneys listed the claim of public nuisancea strategy Hagens Berman invoked in that landmark tobacco industry settlementholding that the railroad company should have been aware of the dangers posed by the hazardous chemicals the train was transporting when it derailed, exposing East Palestine residents to those chemicals.

As a direct and proximate result of defendants improper transportation and handling of toxic chemicals, plaintiffs and the general publics common right to breathe clean air and have access to clean water without dangerous levels of toxic chemicals was diminished, the complaint notes, adding that massive environmental damage had been done to the surrounding community.

Johnson, noting the staggering scale of the resulting destruction, said: The true extent of the damage may not reveal itself for years to come. Norfolk Southern needs to take responsibility now and provide the people of East Palestine and Columbiana County with the resources they need for a healthy future.

One resident represented in the class action told attorneys that, the day after the derailment, he was overcome by a sudden and unprecedented bout of dizziness while walking around his home. Since then, he has also reportedly experienced intense coughing fits, sharp head pain, and shortness of breath.

Other ailments locals have reported include rashes, vomiting, nausea, and burning sensations in their eyes and mouths. Residents have also reported pets and other animals falling ill and dying shortly after the incident.

The lawsuit seeks monetary damages for all affected businesses and residents within 30 miles of the derailment, the establishment of testing and cleaning protocols, the creation of a medical monitoring fund, and injunctive relief oversight of Norfolk Southerns safety and compliance programs.

In a Feb. 23 press release, Norfolk Southern noted that an inspection had found that all of the wayside detectors in the area of the derailment had been working properly. Those detectors, according to a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report, were what first alerted the trains crew that there was a problem.

The NTSB report also revealed the cause of the derailment to be an overheated wheel bearing.

Nonetheless stressing that safety was Norfolk Southerns highest priority, the company pledged to develop practices and invest in technologies that could help to prevent such an event in the future.

The speculation and misinformation about this incident have been extremely upsetting to the citizens of East Palestine, the company said. Norfolk Southern remains committed to the people of the community and will continue its work to help them thrive. Already, we have made significant progress in cleaning the site, engaging the community, and providing financial support for families and small businesses, all to help East Palestine.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Norfolk Southern for further comment in response to the lawsuit.
Families of Patients Lost To COVID-19 Pressuring Florida Hospital, State Lawmakers for Answers

Rallies planned for March 7 at the Capitol in Tallahassee, March 20 outside the hospital

Retired Army Gen. Michael Flynn, who served briefly as national security adviser for former President Donald Trump, attends a board meeting of Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Fla. on Feb. 21, 2023. (Chris Nelson/The Epoch Times)

SARASOTA, Fla.Medical freedom activists are vowing to continue pressuring a Sarasota hospital for answers about the treatment of patients who died during care there for COVID-19.

On March 7, they plan to gather in Tallahassee for what theyre calling Protect Medical Freedom Day in support of two proposed bills making their way through the state legislature, Senate Bill 222 and House Bill 305.

The bills would ban vaccine tracking and vaccine passports and would prohibit employers from discriminating against employees based on their inoculation status.

The activists, who include family members of people lost to COVID-19, also plan to gather on March 20 outside Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) to call attention to a recently released report on its COVID-19 response.

Protesters concerned about the treatment of people who died while being treated for COVID-19 stand outside a board meeting at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Fla., on Feb.21, 2023. (Courtesy of Tanya Parus)

Medical freedom activists have called the report a cover-up.

Their ire comes after a contentious hospital board meeting on Feb. 21 that attracted hundreds from across the state and beyond, including Gen. Michael Flynn, who briefly served as national security adviser under former President Donald Trump.

The meeting drew nationwide attention after police removed a well-known doctor from the meeting after he spoke about the effectiveness of using ivermectin to treat COVID-19.

A video of the incident, shot by a reporter representing The Epoch Times, has been viewed more than 5.2 million times on Twitter.

BREAKING! Dr. John Littell KICKED OUT of Sarasota Memorial Hospital Board Meeting after testifying to the effectiveness of Ivermectin to treat Covid-19! pic.twitter.com/agwqvaJrtY  Chris Nelson   (@ReOpenChris) February 21, 2023

Activists and family members of patients descended on Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) from all over the state to hear board members discuss the review of the hospitals response to COVID-19.

Word of the meeting had spread through social media posts and emailed fliers. People were eager to hear what the hospital would say about the COVID-19 treatments that many allege caused unnecessary deaths.

They packed the hall outside the auditorium hours before the doors opened for the meeting. Many were family members of people who died during treatment for the virus. They have objected to the hospitals COVID-19 treatment protocols.

But when the doors opened, the seats were full of hospital employees.

Another flier had circulated the hospital, requesting staff attendance at the meeting.

Two Hours of Praise for Hospital

Seating will be very limited and there is information suggesting those supporting the Medical Freedom (Ivermectin/HCQ) and Anti-Vaccination movement will be there early in an attempt to fill the seats in the auditorium, the flier passed out to hospital employees read.

Your presence at this meeting is important. Your hospitals future depends on it.

The meeting began with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Then hospital board member Britt Riner presented the reporta glowing review of the hospitals COVID-19 responsecalling the institution a gem.

The audience, made up overwhelmingly of staffers in the early part of the meeting, erupted with applause and a standing ovation.

Riner said the hospital could have communicated better during the pandemic. But, she said, there was no wrongdoing in treatment. Physicians reviewed five patient cases, and found that each met the standard of care, Riner said.

WATCH! After the committee report on Covid-19 protocols used at Sarasota Memorial Hospital was presented the room ERUPTED with applause and even a standing ovation. Not everyone was applauding though. Some complained that the room was stacked by the hospital Chief of Staff. pic.twitter.com/zlohcIKZa3  Chris Nelson   (@ReOpenChris) February 22, 2023

Then for more than two hours, hospital staffers took turns speaking positively about the care provided in the hospital.

Melissa Henry, a nurse at the hospital, said her mother was admitted during the pandemic.

Many of us are here today because a question of trust has come into play in regard to our hospital, Henry said. We chose this hospital because we trust the doctors, the nurses, and the governing board.

My mom was fighting for her life with internal bleeding and sepsis. I wasnt able to see her, but the nurses gave me positive communication, and I was never worried, because I trusted them.

Slowly, as hospital workers spoke, staffers trickled out.

Dont Kill More People

When medical freedom activists finally were allowed to speak, they blamed the hospital for killing their loved ones.

They said SMH used ineffective treatments tied to federal payouts contingent on using treatments recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH).

They spoke about the lack of trust they now have in hospitals and doctors, because of the treatment of COVID-19. They blamed the use of ventilators and the drug remdesivir for the deaths of their loved ones.

Eric and Cynthia Schrock, before he fell ill and was treated in a hospital for COVID-19, despite records that she says show he was suffering from an untreated heart attack. (Courtesy of Cynthia Schrock)

Cynthia Schrock told of how she begged SMH to consider using alternative treatments for her husband, Eric, for COVID-19.

I asked for ivermectin and was told This hospital does not give ivermectin, Schrock said.

She also begged to visit her love.

In the 22 days he was in there, I was never allowed in to see him, she said. They absolutely refused.

Wendy Cohen, who attended the meeting, was angry for the same reason. She told The Epoch Times that her brother-in-law, William Ackerly, died at SMH.

It was three weeks of pure hell, Cohen said. He was admitted on July 23. We, from Day One, asked for ivermectin. He was completely healthy. They gave him remdesivir, and he was dead by Aug. 16.

My sister, his wife, was here trying to get in every day. They never let her in to see him except one day when they tried to talk her into signing a DNR [Do Not Resuscitate order]. That was when they let her in. He was already on a ventilator, at that time, and it was too late.

Cohen said she believes doctors knew remdesivir damages kidneys, but prescribed it anyway.

They put money before lives, she said.

But she believes doctors hands were tied, she said. Administrators who enforced the use of ineffective, even harmful, treatments are the ones who should be held accountable, she said.

Forbidden Drugs

Patty Myers said her 55-year-old husband, Tony, died in an Orlando hospital.

He was refused many treatments because the doctor said, That is outside the protocol of the CDC, the FDA, and this hospital, as mandated,' she told SMH board members.

When he seemed to be improving, a doctor insisted on putting him into a drug-induced coma and on a ventilator, Myers said.

Thats crazy, she said.

They stopped the medicine that was healing and gave him medicine that shut his organs down. They gave him so much oxygen it flooded his lungs. In the end, so much propofol and fentanyl that he was never going to come home.

Dont kill more people!

During a press conference on Oct. 13, 2022, in Kissimmee, Fla., widow Patty Myers holds a picture of her husband, who died while being treated in a hospital for COVID-19. (Nanette Holt/The Epoch Times)

Erin Greene-Rettig testified that her 39-year-old son, Daniel Josiah Rettig, died in a hospital in Kentucky after being refused ivermectin.

My sons wishes and our wishes were not met, she told the hospital board. We had a prescription for ivermectin that was very hard to fill. We brought it in, and they refused [to give] it.

Greene-Rettig told The Epoch Times that she signed a waiver directing the hospital not to follow CDC protocols or use remdesivir.

The hospital gave it anyway, she said.

Dr. Sheri Weinstein, an internal medicine specialist with privileges at SMH, shared the struggle for doctors.

They forbid us from using the drugs that are FDA-approved and are dirt cheap, Weinstein told The Epoch Times. Those included hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, even Vitamin C.

This is not about the doctors being bad, or the staff [being] malicious, she said. This is just that they are simply following orders and forbidding the use of FDA-approved drugs, which have been shown to decrease morbidity and mortality with Covid.

Police Remove Doctor

As he approached the podium, Dr. John Littell, who operates a family practice in Ocala, shook hands with hospital chief of staff Dr. Jonathan Hoffberger and he started by saying to the SMH, You happen to be one of the best hospitals in Florida.

Littell, whos practiced for more than 30 years and served in the U.S. Army in Desert Shield, then talked about his professional experience, and how difficult COVID-19 was for all health care providers.

Gesturing to fellow nurses and doctors, he said, We never worked harder than during the early, deadliest months of the pandemic.

Im not here to condemn, at all, anybody, Littell said.

He spoke about how well ivermectin worked in his treatment of COVID-19 patients. At the three-minute mark, the board indicated he had used the amount of time each speaker had been allowed.

But Littell continued, saying, I drove two hours to get here. Im going to finish.

He spoke for about another minute until a police officer approached. At that, Littell returned to his seat.

A few minutes later, Fiorruci said there were doctors on staff at SMH who wouldnt speak up because of fear of retribution. Littell approached the dais to whisper his thanks to her.

Thats when police officers rapidly approached him, told him he had to leave the property, and escorted him out.

Police officers remove Dr. John Littell from a board meeting of Sarasota Memorial Hospital on Feb. 21, 2023. (Chris Nelson/The Epoch Times)

After four hours, hospital board members voted 7-2 to adopt the reports findings. Fiorruci was one of two board members who voted against accepting the report.

I guess I violated protocol, Littell told The Epoch Times outside the boardroom. I have to confess, Ive never been to a hospital board meeting ever.

He was surprised, he said, that police officers walked him out, as though Im some kind of a criminal. And all I did was speak my mind.

Physicians In Lockstep

Littell and other activists have questioned why hospitals have refused to use medications such as ivermectin for COVID-19. They say hospital treatments that follow federal recommendations for the treatment of the virus dont work, and often do harm.

They will fall on their swords rather than give a medication that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health do not want them to give, Littell said after being removed.

A chief executive officer of a large hospital in Florida told him, Dr. Littell, we expect our physicians to be in lockstep with us when it comes to policy, he said.

They have been beaten over the head that they will use the CDC, NIH protocols, come hell or high water, Littell said. When a doctor like me says there is something really cheap out there that will save lives, they dont want to hear it.

Many doctors have contacted him privately, he said, to learn about alternative treatments and obtain ivermectin.

But it was stories like Schrocks that triggered the review.

Cynthia Schrock speaks about the death of her husband, who was treated in a hospital for COVID-19, at a press conference spotlighting the families of COVID-19 victims in Kissimmee, Fla. on Oct. 13, 2022. (Nanette Holt/The Epoch Times)

In November, the board asked staff to do a comprehensive review of the hospitals Covid response, board chairman Tramm Hudson told The Epoch Times before the meeting.

What did we do right? What lessons did we learn? So we can be ready for the next inevitable pandemic?

Hudson said stories that hospitals wouldnt allow the use of ivermectin were ludicrous.

Our pharmacy filled over 151 prescriptions for ivermectin, Hudson said. The hospital never withheld ivermectin.

We have served over 13,000 patients with Covid in Sarasota County. We do not kill our citizens.

Survival of Inpatients91 Percent

The report presented at the meeting included an assessment of COVID-19 treatments the hospital used.

In every iteration of the virus, SMHs mortality rates were better than the state, southeast, and national expectation for our patient population in co-morbidities, board member Riner said.

Im happy to say that 91 percent of our Covid inpatients did survive the virus.

Only 11 percent required ventilator support, she said.

But some community members have questioned the hospitals COVID-19 policies since the earliest days of the pandemic. So, because hospital board members are elected by county residents, many worked to recruit candidates for the posts, hoping it would help them get answers  and change.

We had spots open up and ran a slate of candidates who support medical freedom, said Tanya Parus, chair of Sarasota County Moms for America.

Our candidate Vic Rohe is the one who called for the investigation and a report was ultimately released on Feb. 21.

Britt Riner, a member of the board of directors of Sarasota Memorial Hospital, is seen on the screen of a TV camera filming a board meeting in Sarasota, Fla., on Feb. 21, 2023. (Chris Nelson/The Epoch Times)

Parus blames the hospitals treatment choices on promised reimbursements from the federal government.

The use of ventilation, the use of remdesivir, the use of these Covid testsall have dollar signs attached to them through the CARES Act, Parus told The Epoch Times.

When you realize that, and start to hear from these family members that are crying because they cant get into see their husband or wife, because they are in the ICU, and all youre told is Theyre fine, and the next phone call you get is Theyre deadthats an atrocity.

According to the SMH report, the hospital suffered a net loss of more than $65.7 million during the pandemic, mostly due to capacity restraints and Floridas pause on non-emergency and elective procedures.

The hospital was paid $9.4 million by the federal government to treat COVID-19, the report shows. The money was for Medicare claim add-ons for testing patients found to be positive for COVID-19 and for using remdesivir.

No More Remdesivir

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended against the use of remdesivir for late-stage COVID-19 patients.

By the time the patient gets to the hospital, they are late-stage, and it should not be used, Weinstein told The Epoch Times.

Yet, SMH still administers remdesivir treatments, Weinstein, who still sees patients there, said. And ivermectin remains on the list of medications that are not recommended at the hospital, she said.

Dr. Sheri Weinstein, an internal medicine specialist with privileges at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, speaks outside a hospital board meeting in Sarasota, Fla., on Feb. 21, 2023 (Chris Nelson/The Epoch Times)

She was frustrated that, by the time people upset about the hospitals COVID-19 response were allowed to speak, most hospital workers had left the meeting and didnt hear their stories.

Many of the key speakers that were asking for a closer look at hospital protocols were moved to the bottom of the speaker list, after many of the doctors and community had left the auditorium, after listening to over two hours of hospital-planted testimonials, Weinstein said.

Governor Ron DeSantis spoke about the topic on at a press conference in Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 15, 2022.

Some of it, like how they used the ventilators, clearly in hindsight that was a mistake, said DeSantis. I dont know that was done necessarily out of deception. I think people were freaking out. But theres no question that that over-ventilation mattered.

DeSantis went on to lambaste Dr. Anthony Fauci for the use of remdesivir.

You know Fauci says that was the standard of care, DeSantis said. I can tell you, we looked at the data here. We saw no benefit from it. And, obviously, you may have had some negative impacts from it. That was something that Fauci was talking about and really pushing, and that turned out not to be something that was viable.

WATCH! @GovRonDeSantis on Covid-19 Protocols! They used ventilators, clearly in hindsight was a mistake. Remdesivir, Fauci said was the standard of care. We looked at the data

& saw no benefit from it. May have had some negative impacts. People have a right to the truth. pic.twitter.com/NddNoJh3mR  Chris Nelson   (@ReOpenChris) February 27, 2023

DeSantis has been criticized by medical-freedom activists for signing an extension in 2022 to a liability shield that protects hospitals from being sued over COVID-19.

An administration insider told The Epoch Times he will allow the law to expire in June. His press office has not responded officially to that claim.

I think people have the right to the truth, DeSantis said. People have a right to accurate data, and that is what we are trying to deliver.

COVID-19 treatment in hospitals has been driven by profit, Littell said.

Every patient who comes into the hospital thats tested positive[hospitals] get a financial incentive. And if they use the [federally recommended] protocols, they get more. Thats a fact.
Flood Buyback Could Have Happened Quicker: Senator

Flooding is shown by helicopter around Maitland, Australia, on July 8, 2022. (David Swift-Pool/Getty Images)

The emergency management minister has admitted a buyback scheme for houses damaged in last years Lismore floods should have been moving faster.

As the federal government announced new multi-million dollar disaster recovery funding one year on from the devastating deluge, Senator Murray Watt said he wanted to see more houses being taken up in the buyback scheme.

The scheme was announced late last year, with the program expected to offer as many as 2000 buybacks, but few offers have been made since.

The first formal offer was made in mid-February this year.

Senator Watt said subsequent floods in New South Wales (NSW) had led to delays in the implementation of the buyback program.

I definitely would have liked to have seen the buyback program move a bit more quickly, he told ABC Radio on Monday.

It obviously would have been great to have that program start sooner in NSW than it did, but I have to say that once the program has started, it has started moving quickly.

Similar schemes have been enacted in Queensland following flooding in the state, which Senator Watt said had been progressing faster.

One year on from the floods, the government unveiled a $300 million package to repair damaged infrastructure so it would not get destroyed in subsequent disasters.

Senator Watt said communities would be better served with mitigation measures for future floods.

Traditionally, whats happened with federal and state funding after disasters is that things like roads and bridges get repaired to the same standard they were before a flood occurred, he said.

What were seeking to do through this new  funding is actually improve the standard of roads and bridges and other things so that they can withstand future flooding as well.

More than 50 projects across 26 local council areas will receive funding as part of recovery efforts.
Florida Democrats Pick Nikki Fried to Lead Party After Tough Midterms

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Nikki Fried speaks during an interview at the Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Miami on April 21, 2022. (Wilfredo Lee/AP Photo)

MIAMIFlorida Democrats selected former state Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried as their new party chair on Saturday, hoping to move past a disastrous midterm performance in the onetime presidential battleground state where high-profile Gov. Ron DeSantis has helped cement Republican control.

Fried, 45, outdistanced former state Sen. Annette Taddeo at a special meeting of party members in suburban Orlando, and will replace Manny Diaz. In his resignation announcement letter last month, he listed a number of problems facing the party, including a lack of resources and volunteers and poor messaging.

Both women had lost their own races last yearFried to Charlie Crist in the primary for governor and Taddeo to U.S. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar in November.

Annette Taddeo arrives to vote in the midterm election in Miami on Nov. 8, 2022. (Lynne Sladky/AP Photo)

Within the past few years, Republicans have erased the voter registration advantage in Florida that Democrats held for decades. In the midterm election, longtime Democratic strongholds such as Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties flipped to the GOP, and DeSantis won a landslide reelection victory as he eyes a 2024 presidential bid.

Democrats performed particularly poorly with Latinos in Florida compared with previous years. Miami-Dade, the states most populous county, is home to 1.5 million Latinos of voting age.

Fried, whose term as agriculture commissioner wrapped up last month, has pledged to rebuild the party from the ground up, with a focus on voter registration. As the only statewide elected Democrat, Fried was a fierce critic of DeSantis, often challenging him on policies related to the COVID-19 pandemic and later on a law critics called the Dont Say Gay bill, which bars instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade.

Taddeo, 55, was a state senator from 2017 to 2022. She had said she wanted a year-round effort to register voters without outsourcing that job to other groups and to mobilize young voters. She also says the party must conduct more outreach to black and Hispanic communities.

Just over a decade ago, President Barack Obama won reelection to the White House after twice carrying the state of Florida. President Donald Trump won the state in the last two elections, carrying Florida by an even larger margin in 2020 than four years earlier.

By Adriana Gomez Licon
DALLASAttorney and politician Louie Gohmert, former U.S. Representative from the state of Texas, was among the theatergoers inspired and uplifted by Shen Yun Performing Arts on the afternoon of Feb. 26.

He and his wife and daughter attended the matinee at the Winspear Opera House, and experienced an afternoon of beauty.

It was magnificent, just absolutely beautiful, said Mr. Gohmert. The beauty, the training they demonstratedmagnificence is the best word Ive got. Its just stunning.

He said he was impressed by not only the manner and training thats demonstrated, but we were seeing fables play out that had moral messages, and thats something that we are not getting enough of in the United States these days.

Formed in 2006, New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company. Its mission is to use the universal languages of music and dance to revive 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, showing China before communism.

Before communism, China was known as the Celestial Empire or the Land of the Divine. Shen Yun tells histories and myths from 5,000 years of this divinely inspired culture.

Mr. Gohmert commended the high moral standard of Shen Yun and added that its done with such beauty and a light-hearted flair.

This is human form when its allowed to be free and celebrate, and its really a joy to behold, he said.

5,000 Years to Experience

Mr. Gohmert had not seen Shen Yun before, and was taken with the breadth and depth of the program.

Its quite old culture, but so many lessons that are true across humanity, he said.

Its wonderful we have a chance to see what people saw 5,000 years ago, he said. And the colors and the beauty of movement is really just a celebration of the human form itself.

Oh, its such a beautiful culture and  it had the moral messages, good and evil, and that is with us and will always be with us.  Louie Gohmert

A cultural journey for 5,000 years, and to have it right here in Texas!, he said. Oh, its such a beautiful culture and  it had the moral messages, good and evil, and that is with us and will always be with us, and its important to recognize, there is still good, and there still is evil, and if you dont recognize that you could get sucked in to being part of the evil.

He encouraged others to see Shen Yun, feeling the experience had much wisdom to impart, and that Shen Yuns mission would carry on.

I think the more they see it the more inspired they will be and we wont lose that thousands of years of tradition and culture, he said.

Come see it. It is a thing of beauty to behold, and youll go away mesmerized by the beauty, and hopefully youll go home taking a message that oppression anywhere is oppression everywhere, and we all need to encourage the lack of oppressionfreedom.

Reporting by NTD.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
House Oversight Chair Comer Requests Interviews With Chief Patrol Agents at 4 Southern Border Sectors

Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, delivers remarks during a hearing in the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, on Feb. 01, 2023. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) has requested interviews with the chief patrol agents of four U.S. Border Patrol sectors.

In a Feb. 26 letter to acting U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Troy Miller, Comer requested transcribed interviews with Aaron Heitke, the top patrol agent of the San Diego sector; Gregory Bovino, chief patrol agent of the El Centro sector; Patricia McGurk-Daniel, acting chief patrol agent of the Yuma sector; and Peter Jaquez, chief patrol agent of the El Paso sector.

Comers letter comes 19 days after a committee hearing where, according to the chairman, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) blocked the aforementioned chief patrol agents from testifying. During the hearing, two Chief Patrol Agents from U.S. Border Patrol sectors along the southern border testified  regarding their sectors and how they have responded to the unprecedented crisis at the southern border. The chief patrol agents who testified were Gloria Chavez from the Rio Grande Valley sector and the Tucson sectors John Modlin.

Comer lamented that Chavez and Modlin provided candid testimony, but understandably confined their statements and responses to the circumstances of their respective sectors and the unique challenges they confront in those sectors. The two, wrote Comer, included many qualifiers specific to their sectors and language illustrating the differences between sectors. An example was the flow of migrants in the sectors.

Modlin told the committee that if youve seen one Border Patrol sector, you have only seen one Border Patrol sector.

I think that, as we continue to move forward, I always askwhenever Congress is ready to put that team togetherlook at Border Patrol agents that come in and advise you. I think theres many of them out there already with experience that know how to help out in building that path forward because I think its time, Chavez told the committee. If not, otherwise, if we dont have the right policies or consequences, the world is watching us, and were going to continue to see these large migration flows from around the world entering here at our southern border.

Those differences, wrote Comer, are why his committee needs to hear from the chiefs of the different sectors along the southern border.

The uniqueness of each sector demonstrates a need for the committee to obtain additional information regarding other sectors on the southern border, he said. As one witness emphasized, if youve seen one Border Patrol sector, you have only seen one Border Patrol sector.

The committee believes Chief Patrol Agents managing other sectors have additional, valuable information that will assist the committee in fully understanding the crisis at the southern border, added Comer.

For convenience, the transcribed interviews will be done with the chief patrol agents in their sector, according to Comer. No deadline was given.

In 2022, there were more than 2 million Border Patrol encounters at the southwest border, according to CBP. So far in 2023, there have been 762,283 such encounters.
How Elites Use Nudge Units to Manipulate the Masses

Commentary

Many readers are no doubt familiar with nudge theory, a concept built around achieving compliance without using coercion. Ostensibly, nudges are designed to help people make better decisions. However, when governments resort to nudging, we must ask, who benefits? Is this nudge actually a push? And in what direction, exactly, are we being pushed? From the United States to the UK, powerful governments are actively manipulating the masses through nudge-based initiatives.

In 2017, in recognition of his contributions to the field of behavioral economics, Richard Thaler was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences. Along with Cass Sunstein, the distinguished American economist is best known for bringing nudge theory to prominence. The duos 2008 book, Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness, received rave reviews. Although the book is a fantastic read, its important to note that nudging is closely associated with libertarian paternalism, the rather naive idea that its entirely possible (and legitimate) for major institutions, including branches of government, to influence our behavior while also respecting our human agency.

Its also important to note that the duos philosophies have enabled governments to employ highly manipulative methods. This isnt a criticism of the two men; this is a criticism of the ways in which nudging has been weaponized by those in charge. Nudging is now synonymous with psychological manipulation and social engineering.

Which brings us to the UK, where nudging has been used for more than a decade to control the British people.

In 2010, The Behavioural Insights Team, also referred to as the Nudge Unit, was established by a coalition government. One of the reasons the unit was established, were told, was to enable the British people to make better choices for themselves. However, as the recent pandemic demonstrated to full effect, the unit appears to have been created for more questionable reasons. The unit has been blamed for assisting the UK government in the use of totalitarian-like tactics. During the pandemic, the unit stands accused of encouraging the government to deploy fear, shame, and scapegoating. A number of prominent psychologists also criticized the unit for using grossly unethical tactics to scare British citizens into COVID-19 compliance. Of course, none of this has stopped the unit from making more dangerous recommendations.

Last year, the unit advised British banks to utilize the wealth of data that they possess to track the carbon footprint of the British people. The unit also appears to be in favor of introducing a social credit-style system built around rewards and possible punishments. In a rather eye-opening blog post, published in 2022, the unit revealed that it had signed a partnership with Cogo, a company dedicated to managing our carbon footprint. The unit and Cogo are currently exploring a number of ways in which banks should go about nudging their customers to go green.

The manipulative hustle, as is clear to see, never ends; it simply evolves with the times. During the pandemic, nudging was used to persuade people to mask up and agree to draconian lockdown measures. Now that the pandemic has ended, nudging will be used to usher in an array of climate-driven initiatives.

In January, the unit released a report (pdf) discussing the need for social and behavioral transformation. In an effort to live in a net zero world, citizens must be closely monitored. This includes monitoring what they buy, what they eat, their modes of transport, and whether or not their jobs are climate-friendly.

Yes, some American readers will say, but all of this is taking place in the UK; it could never happen here, in the good ol U.S. of A. Sadly, it could. In fact, its been occurring for years. In 2009, a year before the UK established its infamous Behavioural Insights Unit, the Obama administration appointed the aforementioned Cass Sunstein to head the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) and apply his nudge-based theories to government policies.

Fast forward to 2023, and the people of America are being nudged on a regular basis. In a piece published in 2022, Bloomberg Cities Network, a collaborative effort between Bloomberg and John Hopkins University, discussed the fact that city halls across the country have essentially created nudge units of their own.

In some cases, the authors wrote, this capacity is formalized within dedicated teams drawing direct inspiration from the U.K. experience.

A comforting thought for very few readers, one imagines. At an individual level, nudging is an ethically dubious act. When governments and branches of government begin nudging, however, it goes from being unethical to downright dangerous.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Brooklyn Parade Spotlights Beijings Attack on Faith on American Soil

Falun Gong practitioners walk in a parade in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the Chinese regime's persecution of their faith on Feb. 26, 2023.(Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

NEW YORKHundreds of Falun Gong adherents paraded down the streets of Brooklyns Chinatown area to highlight communist Chinas abuses, including its actions targeting residents on U.S. soil.

A week earlier, David Fang, a Falun Gong practitioner, was attacked by a pro-Beijing man at an information booth in New Yorks Flushing neighborhood. The assault left minor injuries on Fangs hand, neck, and knee.

Fang, who was trying to garner support to end the Chinese regimes persecution targeting his belief, was one of the latest Falun Gong adherents in the United States who has faced abuse from suspected Chinese Communist Party agents.

Several adherents recently spoke to The Epoch Times about their experiences of receiving threats and verbal abuse.

On two occasions, men holding red banners slandering the practice spat on the face of adherents peacefully protesting in front of the Chinese Consulate in Manhattan, they said.

Its something that in my mind could only take place in mainland China, but its now happening in America, 49-year-old Li Yongxian, a parade participant who used to run a construction supply business in Chinas southeastern province of Fujian, told The Epoch Times.

Falun Gong practitioner Li Yongxian walks in a parade in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the Chinese regimes persecution of their faith on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

The Brooklyn event, which also featured dragon dancers, a Chinese waist drum troupe, and a large marching band, was held one day after members of the House Select Committee on China hosted a press conference in front of a former secret Chinese police station in Manhattans Chinatown, vowing to spotlight the Chinese regimes transnational aggression toward its critics in the United States.

Memories of Persecution

Drawn by what she described as the practices spiritual and moral benefits, Li had taken up Falun Gong in China in 1996, practicing its gentle exercises and living by the disciplines core tenets of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance. The persecution unleashed three years later would upend her life and those of millions of others.

Lis husband, also a practitioner, was imprisoned for a total of about three years beginning in the early 2000s merely for persisting in his faith. During this time, Li was often denied a chance to visit him in detention and was forced by authorities to try to get her husband to renounce his belief.

Under the suppressive climate, although I wasnt detained, my heart and mind werent free, she told The Epoch Times.

What we went through wasnt the cruelest, said Li, who in addition was subjected to years of constant surveillance, and was once detained for a month at a brainwashing center that involved being forced to watch programs defaming the practice. Many have suffered far worse.

Standing near Li in the parade was 58-year-old Wang Yongsheng, a U.S. citizen whose mother was sent to a Chinese psychiatric hospital after a 1999 visit to Beijing appealing to authorities to stop the persecution.

Falun Gong practitioner Wang Yongsheng walks in a parade in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the Chinese regimes persecution of their faith on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

She wasnt hospitalized because of mental disorders but because she wanted to practice Falun Gong, Wang said.

Nurses at the facility would inject drugs into his mothers body or give her pills, tying her up to force feed her if she refused to take them, according to Wang. Those drugs caused her to feel dizzy and restless, and slowed her speech and movement.

The Chinese Communist Party will go to any length in persecuting the Chinese people. Its crimes are too numerous to count, he told The Epoch Times.

Wangs mother is no longer detained, but she is unable to escape China as she has been denied a passport despite repeated efforts over the years.

Exposing Lies

Karla Wilson Young, a 13-year-old middle schooler from upstate New York, said she believes that the pro-Beijing assailant who attacked fellow adherents in Flushing had been misled by lies from the Party.

I really want to show people that Falun Dafa is actually good, not what the Communist Party is saying, she told The Epoch Times. The lies are taking lots of lives away.

Falun Gong practitioner Karla Wilson Young walks in a parade in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the Chinese regimes persecution of their faith on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Young said she was saddened upon hearing the news about Fangs injuries for doing no more than telling the truth.

Its a motivation for her to be more vocal about the human rights abuses, she said, adding that she hopes that in doing so, innocent lives wont get hurt.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), who chairs the House China committee, told The Epoch Times Feb. 25 that he hopes to impose heavier punishment on perpetrators who harass or assault dissidents under the orders of Beijing or other foreign adversaries.

Onlooker Miguel Garcia, a 38-year-old Brooklynite, was attracted by the parades vivid colors.

Miguel Garcia and his family watch Falun Gong practitioners march in a parade, in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the persecution of their faith in China, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Garcia, who was with his two children, has seen similar Falun Gong parades three times in the past and appreciated its cultural elements, but this was the first time he noticed signs mentioning the regimes human rights violations, including its state-sponsored forced organ harvesting of detained adherents.

Thats definitely something to fight against for sure, he told The Epoch Times, calling forced organ harvesting horrible.

When theyre trying to speak the truth, thats what [the Chinese regime does]go after them, he said about the recent attack in Flushing, adding that exposure is the best way to curb similar abuses.

Falun Gong practitioners walk in a parade in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the Chinese regimes persecution of their faith on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Falun Gong practitioners walk in a parade in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the Chinese regimes persecution of their faith on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Bystanders watch Falun Gong practitioners march in a parade, in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the persecution of their faith in China, on Feb. 26, 2023.(Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Bystanders watch Falun Gong practitioners march in a parade, in Brooklyn, N.Y., highlighting the persecution of their faith in China, on Feb. 26, 2023.(Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)
China Facing Another Wave of COVID-19 Infection as Fever Wave Hits Schools Across the Country, Internal Document Shows

Youths walk past a propaganda billboard about the "China Dream," a slogan associated with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, outside a school in Beijing on March 12, 2018. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

China is experiencing another wave of COVID-19 outbreaks, as a fever wave hits schools across the country, leading to the halting of many classes, an internal metro system document shows.

Shanghai Metro epidemic prevention measures are being enforced again because of a new round of infections, a transit system worker who identified herself as Ms. Liang told The Epoch Times on Feb. 21.

The second wave of COVID-19 in Shanghai and Hangzhou has come again, she said. Three schools in Hangzhou are having COVID-19 outbreaks, and a primary school in Shanghai Qingpu suspended classes for four days because of flu.

The Metro system recently issued an internal document about epidemic prevention measures, according to Liang.

The station head just sent us a document titled Procedure to Handle COVID-19 Positive Passengers. It details the strict measures, but we dont know when they will be implemented. They just told us to prepare for epidemic control and get familiar with the measures as soon as possible and informed us that if the outbreak cannot be controlled, the procedure probably will be implemented in March.

A screenshot of an internal document from the Shanghai Metro system detailing strict COVID-19 control measures taken on Feb. 21, 2022. (The Epoch Times/screenshot)

She said its possible that the authorities may reinstitute the draconian zero-COVID policy and noted that Shanghais municipal government-issued service mobile app still had the COVID-19 health code (color) function and the function of checking PCR testing results.

The Epoch Times also obtained an internal notice to parents from Shaw Primary School in the Qingpu district of Shanghai on Feb. 19. It notified the parents of a class that had many students ill with a fever. Four of them were diagnosed with flu, and classes were suspended from Feb. 20 to Feb. 23.

The Qingpu District Education Bureau stated that the notice was true and stressed that students were ill with type-A flu, not COVID-19.

No one answered either of the two phone numbers of Shaw Primary School on Feb. 21 when The Epoch Times called for comment.

Fever Wave Hits Schools

Groups of students at schools and child care facilities in Beijing were reported as exhibiting a fever, the Beijing Municipal Commission of Education said in a Feb. 22 notice through its official social media account.

A parent in Shanxi Province told The Epoch Times on Feb. 21 that a COVID-19 outbreak recently occurred in the local schools, forcing the suspension of classes.

Chinese school girls walking together. (Johannes Eisele/AFP/Getty Images)

My child who is a student in the junior high school of a bilingual school who lives in school dorms has tested positive for COVID-19, a parent, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of fear of reprisal, told The Epoch Times.

This time, there are other students who also tested positive and havent been infected before. The whole school has almost all been infected. All the students were sent home after testing positive. They were allowed to return to school on Feb. 22. The school said that as long as they dont have a fever, they can go back to class, even if they still test positive for COVID-19.

Ms. Liu, a parent who works at the Chengbei Vegetable Market in Suixi County of Huaibei city in Anhui Province, told The Epoch Times on Feb. 21 that two infectious diseasesinfluenza A and norovirushave been spreading in local schools.

Many children have a fever, she said. My child is also having a fever now, how difficult it is! Their symptoms vary. These days, there are two viruses spreading. Some [children] vomit, which is probably caused by norovirus, while some are having influenza A; [they] have to take blood tests to confirm it.

Norovirus, also called gastroenteritis or the stomach flu, is very contagious, public data show; in addition to vomiting and diarrhea, common symptoms include nausea, stomach cramps, fever, chills, aches, and fatigue.

Zhao Fenghua and Hong Ning contributed to this report.
Its Time for a New Approach With North Korea

A South Korean soldier at the Joint Security Area of the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea, with a North Korean soldier in the background. (DoD courtesy photo by the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division)

Commentary

North Korea is going to get away with keeping its nuclear weapons.  John Bolton

North Korea has once again pulled a page from its old playbook on brinkmanship, conducting a series of missile tests designed to snatch attention away from the escalating conflict between Russia and the West over Ukraine and bait the U.S. back to the negotiating table. In what has been perhaps the most provocative launch since 2017, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) tested a long-range ballistic missile, reaching a maximum altitude of 1,242 miles and traveling 497 miles before landing in the sea. This test was North Koreas seventh launch in the month of January, once again demonstrating that it possesses the capability not only to strike U.S. allies in the region but also has the potential to strike deep into the American homeland.

In a predictable pattern, the DPRK has staged this latest missile launch to gain international attention, force the U.S. to recognize its position as a nuclear-armed, ballistic missile-capable power, and goad the U.S. to interact with the Hermit Kingdom. In an equally predictable response, the U.S. will condemn DPRKs action, consult with regional allies and maintain a consistent and unimaginative continuation of its existing containment policies.

As for current U.S. policy, the U.S. remains committed to a stable, peaceful Korean Peninsula and maintains strong solidarity with the Republic of Korea, Japan, and other states with a vested interest in the future of the Korean Peninsula. The U.S. continues to attempt to engage the DPRK in negotiations on denuclearization and to persuade it to honor its commitments and international obligations. At the same time, the U.S. has worked to ensure the implementation of international sanctions to stem the DPRKs nuclear, missile, and proliferation networks, with little success. Slowing the DPRKs nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its involvement in other illicit activities; supporting any future dialogue for reunification under a timetable commensurate with the aspirations of the South Korean people and providing humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the North Korean people remain consistent U.S. goals.

Conversely, the DPRKs actions have consistently endangered peace and stability through calculated provocations. The most recent missile launches are just the latest in a litany of incitements, provocations, and attacks designed to achieve DPRKs goals. The decision to attack the South Korean navy corvette Cheonan in March 2011, the shelling of Yeonpyeong Island, and the destruction of the Inter-Korean Liaison Office are but a few of the examples in recent history of the DPRKs unswerving disregard for the U.S. and the international community. The much-heralded meetings between President Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un yielded little in the suspension of DPRKs nuclear weapons tests and uranium enrichment and these most recent missile tests substantiate the DPRKs advancement of its ballistic missile program. Future missile launches and even subsequent nuclear tests are likely and consistent with DPRKs policy of conducting provocative events in tandem.

Amid speculation over whether the regime will eventually collapse, the fact remains, the DPRK has survived more than 30 years since the fall of the Soviet Union and regime survival remains its principal objective.

Over the last two decades, the U.S. policy toward DPRK has been based on the principle of strategic patience. The U.S. tactic has been characterized by deterrence of aggression through a strong military presence in the Republic of Korea, cooperation with regional allies, and dialogue with China to persuade and influence the DPRK. At the same time, the U.S. has exerted economic pressure, applied through unilateral and United Nations Security Council-mandated sanctions to attempt to force compliance from North Korea. Furthermore, U.S. attempts at dialogue and negotiations have led only to the DPRKs continued defiance.

Under the current policy approach, the U.S. finds itself continually in reaction mode to events dictated by Pyongyang. U.S. strategic patience has evolved into strategic predictability, which the DPRK effectively exploits. Given the lackluster performance of current U.S. policies toward the DPRK, perhaps a more innovative, comprehensive, and visionary approach is needed.

A new U.S. effort is essential, one centered on an indirect approach of calculated ambiguity. No longer will the U.S. act and react in a fashion commensurate with Pyongyangs calculus. This new U.S. approach will require sophistication and be both dynamic and subtle, but inherently unpredictable. This new method will require a careful, and well-orchestrated, whole of government approach. The goal of this approach is to limit Pyongyangs freedom of action by creating permanent uncertainty of U.S. intentions, keeping the DPRK perpetually off-balance diplomatically, militarily, and economically. This approach seeks to modify the DPRKs behavior without necessarily producing regime collapse. Rather, calculated ambiguity is a continuous constrict and release approach, using timing and means orchestrated by the U.S. in order to shape the DPRKs actions.

For example, U.S. diplomatic efforts will focus on recognition of the sovereignty of the DPRK, acknowledgment of its ambitions, and pursue engagement efforts in such a manner as to encourage inclusion in the international community. No strings attached to humanitarian assistance can be offered. Concurrently, U.S. military actions will include the episodic posturing of formidable U.S. military strike capabilities within the region, capable of regime decapitation followed by periodic show of force exercises. A synchronized informational campaign will seek to overtly reassure DPRK leadership, while covertly conducting operations to gradually influence the North Korean people. An easing of selected economic sanctions coupled with targeted pressure on certain key economic and financial mechanisms completes the approach. The desired effect: a seemingly uncoordinated and erratic U.S. carrot and stick approach that, by design, keeps Pyongyang indecisive and hesitant.

Of course, this strategy is not easy and not without risks. The calculated ambiguity approach will require close coordination with U.S. regional allies and must carefully demonstrate to China that a change in DPRK behavior, including suspension of further nuclear and missile programs, complying with international law, and ceasing reckless provocation, is of mutual benefit to all.

Currently, the DPRKs actions are calculated based on predictable U.S. policy responses. The DPRK test-fires missiles, the U.S. reacts in a prescribed and conventional manner. The U.S. should shed the preconceived notion that it is impossible to implement ingenious, successful policy approaches and regain the strategic initiative when dealing with the DPRK. Sending mixed signals through a calculated ambiguity policy is stealing a page from Pyongyangs own playbook. Unpredictability will require the DPRK to continuously reevaluate its plans, which may prove arduous and ultimately lead to some measure of accommodation and compliance.

The U.S. has only to gain from attempting a new approach to the challenges presented by the DPRK. The policies of the past have yielded little. They have not stopped the DPRK from acquiring nuclear weapons nor prevented it from developing the capability to launch them at the U.S.

The continued pursuit of policies that seek to force the DPRK to relinquish its nuclear weapons is not only unrealistic but also foolhardy. There is a finite window of opportunity now to implement new and innovative approaches to achieve U.S. policy goals on the Korean peninsula that will shape the strategic environment in a favorable and advantageous way. Creating conditions that give the U.S. perpetual strategic initiative and advantage over the DPRK and its behavior is the new measure of success.

by an anonymous former Special Forces Officer.

The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

This article first appeared in The Havok Journal.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Japan, Other G-7 Leaders Step Up Russia Sanctions

TOKYOJapanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and other Group of Seven (G-7) leaders adopted a set of additional sanctions against Russia over its war on Ukraine at an online G-7 summit Friday to mark the one-year anniversary of the start of the invasion.

The leaders renewed their commitment to intensifying our diplomatic, financial, and military support for Ukraine, to increasing the costs to Russia and those supporting its war effort, and countering the negative impact on the rest of the world, especially the most vulnerable people, they said in a statement, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

The G-7 countries also affirmed their coordinated action to further counter Russias capacity to wage its illegal aggression and pledged to prevent Russia from obtaining military equipment and technology. They also called on other countries to stop providing military support to Russia.

Kishida, as this years G-7 president, also announced Japan will impose additional sanctions on Russia, including freezing the assets of some 120 individuals and organizations and banning the export of drones and other materials that can be used for military purposes.

In order to absolutely not allow one-sided changes to the status quo, we must firmly carry out support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia to regain peace and international order based on the rule of law, Kishida told a news conference before hosting a teleconference with other G-7 leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

G-7 serves the core of the international commitment to do so, he said.

At the summit, Kishida planned to discuss the latest developments in the Russian war on Ukraine and how to support Ukraines recovery and affirm G-7 solidarity for the war-torn country.

Kishida noted growing concern about Chinas potential transfer of lethal weapons to Russia, and said that Japan will cooperate with G-7 and other countries to send a clear message to third countries to stop supplying weapons to Russia.

Kishida also expressed strong concern about Russian President Vladimir Putins announcement Tuesday that he was suspending Moscows participation in an arms control treaty between Russia and the United States.

Russias nuclear threat is unacceptable, and use of nuclear weapons should never happen, Kishida, whose electoral constituency is Hiroshima, said at the news conference. As the worlds only country to have suffered nuclear attacks, the 77-year history of non-nuclear weapons use should not be tarnished by Russia.

As the world observed the one-year anniversary of Russias war on Ukraine, about 1,000 people protested Friday night in Tokyos Hibiya Park, holding banners saying: Russia, stop invading Ukraine. Outside of the United Nations University in Tokyo, demonstrators held a candlelight vigil. And at Zenkoji temple in Nagano in central Japan, about 30 monks prayed for the lives lost in the war.

Top diplomats from Ukraine, the United States, Britain, Sweden, the EU, Lithuania and Sweden at a joint news conference in Tokyo called for solidarity for Ukraine and condemned Russia. U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel said Putin is wrong to accuse NATO of expanding eastward. He said the newest NATO members expanded west by their free will because the West has a pull of freedom, liberty, and respect for individuals.

Also Friday, nuclear and security experts on a panel at the non-profit Sasakawa Peace Foundation released recommendations for the Kishida government to initiate discussions at the G-7 Hiroshima summit toward establishing a framework to protect nuclear facilities in conflict areas, in response to Russias repeated attacks on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine.

Due to its pacifist principles, Japans support for Ukraine has been limited to non-combative military equipment such as helmets, bulletproof vests and drones, and humanitarian supplies including generators.

Kishida is the only G-7 leader who has not visited Ukraine. Pressure is mounting at home for Kishida to visit Kyiv before he hosts the G-7 summit in Hiroshima. Asked about a possible visit, Kishida said he is considering a visit, taking into consideration ways to ensure safety and secrecy, but nothing official has been decided.

Japan has joined the United States and European nations in sanctioning Russia over its invasion and providing humanitarian and economic support for Ukraine. Japan was quick to react because it fears the possible impact of a war in East Asia, where the Chinese communist regimes military has grown increasingly aggressive and has escalated tensions around self-ruled Taiwan. The Chinese regime claims the island as its own, despite the fact that Taiwan is a de facto independent country, with its own military, democratically-elected government, and constitution.

Kishida at the online G-7 also explained Japans support for Ukraine. That includes a new $5.5 billion in financial aid, which Kishida unveiled Monday, bringing total Japanese support for Ukraine to more than $7 billion.

Japan has also accepted more than 2,000 displaced Ukrainians and helped them with housing assistance and support for jobs and educationa rare move for a country that is known for its strict immigration policy.
Former Governor Roy Romer endorsed Sen. Chris Hansen in his bid to become Denver's first new mayor in more than a decade. Romer joins a list of supporters that include many labor unions, current and former senators, representatives and school board members.

Hansen is also supported by an additional 1,300 individual contributors, according to his campaign. Romer said the mayoral race is "incredibly important," and that he was proud to endorse Hansen.

"As the former governor of Colorado, I know what it takes to make progress and lead with a vision," Romer said in a news release. "Denver faces its own set of challenges, from modernizing the protocols for plowing roads after big storms to solving the homelessness crisis."

After his three terms as Colorado's governor, Romer served as superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District from 2000 to 2006. Romer is a "true public servant," according to Hansen's campaign. He also served as the chair of the Democratic Governor's Association.

Romer served in the Colorado House of Representatives in the late 1950s and early 1960s before transitioning to the Colorado Senate between 1962 and 1966. He tried to unseat Sen. Gordon Allot in 1966, but was unsuccessful. Following that, he served as state treasurer for a decade before his first election as governor in 1986. He served three terms.

"Im honored to have the Governors support and to welcome him to this great coalition we are building of organized labor, business groups, environmental groups, public safety unions, and community leaders," Hansen said in a news release. It will take all of us working together to solve these complex problems and Im proud of the campaign were building to do just that.
John Robson: Lifting the Taboo on Discussing COVIDs Possible Lab-Leak Origin Signals a Return to Sanity and Civility

Security personnel keep watch outside the Wuhan Institute of Virology during the visit by the World Health Organization team tasked with investigating the origins of COVID-19, in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, on Feb. 3, 2021. (Thomas Peter/Reuters)

Commentary

So its official. COVID came from a Chinese biological warfare lab unless it didnt. Glad we got that one straightened out.

I grasp that in todays polarized world, those who already thought it was man-made are liable to trumpet this finding while those who did not will brush it off. And that its not the first time politics got so divided that Marc Antony could nail up Ciceros severed head and hands in the Forum in 43 B.C. to mixed reviews as to its tastefulness.

I also realize that the big news story, from the Wall Street Journal, concerned a report I havent seen and neither have you. Or the reporters. So why am I excited? Because I always thought the lab leak probable?

No. Though I did. But you may well ask, especially since the WSJ relayed some classic political obfuscation via broken telephone: The Energy Department made its judgment with low confidence, according to people who have read the classified report.

When the IPCC announces medium confidence in some climate finding it sounds pretty solid, until you realize for them it means a coin toss and low confidence means a one-in-five chance. So I have low confidence that anyone knows what these shadowy people meant here or how they knew. Quite possibly the main idea was, Lets not go to war with China right now.

So a big nothing? Not at all. Its extremely significant because the report, and widespread press coverage of it, means the taboo on discussing COVIDs origins has been broken. And public debate should not be governed primarily by taboos.

They have their place, of course. Some things ought to be regarded with universal loathing, including triumphantly displaying dismembered bits of your political enemies. (Or ignoring foreign meddling in your elections.) But as a rule, free societies flourish by debating vital questions, particularly uncomfortable ones, and stagnate or collapse when censorship or ostracism crushes free inquiry. And COVID was very alarming in that regard.

When it first emerged, I supported drastic measures because if, as seemed possible, it was as contagious as flu and as lethal as Ebola we couldnt afford to find out too late. But within a couple of months it was clear that it was no Black Death. And that debating drastic measures would get you cancelled. (Even humorous or merely geographical names were somehow banned, from Wuhan Virus to Kung Flu.)

I wasnt that disturbed at the authorities talking contradictory nonsense, from masks being vital after not working, to lockdowns carrying minimal economic or psychological costs, alternative treatments being quackery, and natural immunity being rubbish. Politicians spout smug gibberish routinely. But what did frighten me is them suppressing debate with the enthusiastic support of much of the intelligentsia, including rhetorical assaults on people like Matt Ridley and Alina Chan (authors of Viral: The Search for the Origin of COVID-19), remarkable less for their virulence than for the acquiescence of so many in the chattering classes in character assassination to suppress inquiry.

It was a very strange performance and prompted much pointed commentary, including a cartoon about supposed rebels pivoting from Stick it to the man to Stick it in my arm. I grew up with the left in particular questioning authority with a tenacity that verged on idiocy, especially once they became the Establishment but still considered themselves the Resistance. Then suddenly they were doing the opposite, and the natural immunity of a free society to outright censorship and crushing social and professional pressure to conform seemed to have been suppressed somehow, perhaps by an unhealthy lifestyle.

It wasnt just scary. It was weird. What if we took that approach to climate change? Or gender? Hey, wait a minute.

Not incidentally, the WSJ also just ran an opinion column by Allysia Finley headlined Three Years Late, the Lancet Recognizes Natural Immunity in which she declared indignantly that The Lancet studys vindication of natural immunity fits a pandemic pattern: The public-health clerisy rejects an argument that ostensibly threatens its authority; eventually its forced to soften its position in the face of incontrovertible evidence; and yet not once does it acknowledge its opponents were right.

Well, no. Pride is like that, and clerisies tend toward vanity. But the reason Im so encouraged by this rumour about a report expressing uncertainty is that we are now debating it. Finley griped that now that experts at the University of Washington have confirmed it in a leading  and left-leaning  journal, its fit to print. And yeah, its annoying. As its annoying that the Lancet has a discernible bias. But in this troubled world any sign of a return to sanity and civility, and the enduring power of truth even over the left, should be greeted enthusiastically.

Lifting this taboo is precisely that kind of sign. So bring on the debaters, and send off the Inquisition.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Judge Orders Ex-Jail Union Boss to Be Freed in Bribery Case

Norman Seabrook (C), president of the New York City Correction Officers' Benevolent Association, leaves court in New York on June 8, 2016. (Mary Altaffer/AP Photo)

NEW YORKA powerful New York jail union boss-turned-prison inmate is poised to go free less than halfway through his sentence in a corruption case, after a judge decided that the nearly five-year term should be reduced.

Norman Seabrook originally was sentenced to 58 months in prison on his federal conviction for taking bribes to put $20 million in union pension money into a risky hedge fund. The union lost $19 million.

But U.S. District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein said Seabrooks sentence is now unfairbecause a co-defendant appealed and got his own prison term reduced to just over a year.

There is now an unjust disparity between the defendants sentences, Hellerstein wrote in an opinion Thursday. Hellerstein himself originally sentenced both defendants.

Seabrook, 63, has served about 21 months. He remains in custody for now, as Hellerstein put the ruling on hold for 10 days while prosecutors decide whether to appeal.

Prosecutors declined to comment Saturday. A message was sent to Seabrooks attorney.

As head of the New York City Correction Officers Benevolent Association for two decades, Seabrook became a political powerbroker and held huge influence over how the citys Rikers Island jail complex operated. He made as much as $300,000 per year.

Prosecutors said he accepted a $60,000 kickbackdelivered in a luxury Ferragamo handbagin exchange for getting the union to invest in the hedge fund. Seabrook maintained that he did nothing wrong, and that the union simply made a bad investment.

After a 2017 mistrial, Seabrook was convicted the next year, though he ultimately didnt have to report to prison until May 2021.

Meanwhile, co-defendant Murray Huberfeld, a principal in the hedge fund, pleaded guilty to arranging the payoff.

Hellerstein sentenced Huberfeld to 30 months, aiming for approximate equivalence between his and Seabrooks punishment, as the judge explained in Thursdays ruling.

Then Huberfeld successfully appealed his sentence, which was trimmed to 13 months.

In light of that development, Hellerstein concluded that releasing Seabrook now reflects the seriousness of Seabrooks crime and lack of timely acceptance of responsibility, while also remedying what would otherwise be an unjust sentencing disparity between the defendants.

By Jennifer Peltz
Judge Rules Arizona Ranch Owner Will Stand Trial for Alleged Shooting Death of Illegal Immigrant

George Alan Kelly faces downgraded charge of second-degree murder

This photo provided by the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office in Nogales, Arizona, shows rancher George Alan Kelly. (Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office via AP)

NOGALES, Ariz.A 73-year-old Arizona man will go on trial for the alleged second-degree murder of an illegal immigrant on his ranch property in January.

Justice of the Peace Emilio Velasquez determined at an evidentiary hearing in Nogales Justice Court on Feb. 24 that there was probable cause against George Alan Kelly to proceed to a trial in Superior Court.

Police initially charged Kelly with first-degree murder in the Jan. 30 shooting death of 43-year-old Mexican national Gabriel Cuen-Butimea, based mainly on inconsistent statements that Kelly made during an interview.

The incident allegedly occurred on Kellys ranch located near Nogales, a southern border city of 20,837 in Arizonas Santa Cruz County.

George Alan Kelly enters court for his preliminary hearing in Nogales Justice Court in Nogales, Ariz., on Feb. 22, 2023. (Mark Henle/The Arizona Republic via AP, Pool)

During the Feb. 24 court hearing, the prosecution announced that Kelly would face a reduced charge of second-degree murder, which doesnt require proof that the alleged crime was premeditated.

Prosecutors didnt elaborate on the downgraded felony charge. Kelly faces two additional charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Kellys attorney, Brenna Larkin, asked the judge to grant a continuance since the states case had changed drastically with new disclosures, requiring time for her to prepare a response.

In my experience, it is routine to grant continuances, Larkin said. Mr. Kelly should not be treated any differently.

Frankly, I am amazed at the states opposition [to a request for a continuance], she said.

The judge denied the defenses motion and the hearing moved forward to determine whether there was sufficient evidence that Kelly committed second-degree murder.

Kelly, wearing a blue long-sleeved shirt and a vest, was present in the courtroom at the Feb. 24 hearing. He remains free after posting a $1 million surety bond on his property.

Murder or Self-Defense?

The defense says that Kelly and his wife were having lunch in their kitchen when they heard a single gunshot at about 2 p.m. on Jan. 30.

In court documents, Kelly told police that he went out onto his porch and saw a horse running in his direction and then a group of 10 to 15 men in camouflage clothing, wearing backpacks, and armed with AK-47 assault rifles.

Kelly claimed he fired multiple warning shots from his AK-47 over the heads of the men when they pointed their weapons at him. The men then scattered and ran off his property.

During the alleged confrontation, Kelly called a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol liaison on his cell phone to report the incident.

An initial search of his property by Border Patrol agents and sheriffs deputies failed to locate any of the men or the deceased.

Later in the day, Kelly texted the Border Patrol liaison and left a voice message saying the matter was worse than he could imagine and that he might have shot at something.

Kelly reportedly told police he discovered the body of a man after he went to check on his horses around 5 p.m. that day and used a flashlight to mark the location of the body.

A second search of the property found Cuen-Butimea lying face down with a single gunshot wound in his back.

Wanda Kelly (C), wife of George Alan Kelly, accused of first-degree murder in the shooting death of an illegal immigrant on Jan. 30, leaves the Nogales Justice Center in Nogales, Ariz., following a hearing on Feb. 22, 2023. (Allan Stein/The Epoch Times)

Police were issued a warrant to search Kellys house; during a second search, they discovered Kellys AK-47, ammunition, and at least eight shell casings on and around his porch.

During the defense cross-examination of a Santa Cruz County detective, Larkin alluded to a federal agent who described the location near Kellys ranch as a high crime area used for drug trafficking and criminals who steal drugs from the cartels.

The detective testified that during an interview, he told Kelly it was time to come forward with the truth and that the charge of first-degree murder rested largely on Kelly making inconsistent statements.

I arrested him based on the totality of the circumstances, the detective testified.

Prosecutors called a man identified only by the initials D.R.R., who testified that he was with Cuen-Butimea on Jan. 30 when Kelly allegedly started shooting at the group.

The witness, wearing a blue hoodie and medical mask to conceal his identity, testified using a Spanish interpreter.

[The group was] walking when this gentleman shot at us, the witness testified. I saw Gabriel hold his chest.

He added that then, Cuen-Butimea rolled his eyes and fell to the ground sideways.

I ran. I couldnt help him.

The witness testified that the gunshots, about 15 in total, sounded like rounds from an AK-47 rifle. He said he thought the government had shot at him as the group fled back across the border fence and into Mexico.

Witness Testimony Not Credible

Before the judges ruling on probable cause, Larkin said there was no reason to believe the absolutely incredible testimony of the witness and said that police found no shell casings in the quantity matching the witness description.

Its not conceivable that Mr. Kelly aimed from his porch, somehow saw this person, and made this long, difficult shot, she said.

Obviously, there is a dead body here, she added. There needs to be probable cause that this crime took place [and that] this specific person committed this crime.

Larkin asked the judge to do the right thing and find no probable cause in the case.

In the meantime, a fundraising campaign on GiveSendGo had raised $344,460 toward Kellys legal defense.

Shannon Pritchard, who created the campaign, wrote that the original goal was $250,000, calling the amount raised astounding, miraculous, a blessing to the Kelly family beyond belief.

It is a tragedy that a simple farmer, who should be protected by the government has been abandoned and had to defend himself. That is bad enough, but the government that caused this, now wishes to persecute him, Pritchard wrote.

A Change.org petition that urges the charges against Kelly be dropped collected 11,526 signatures, toward a goal of 15,000.

At a House Judiciary Committee hearing on the border crisis in Yuma, Arizona, on Feb. 23, Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb said he thought the $1 million bond set for Kelly was a little excessive based on what he has seen.

Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels talks about the fentanyl crisis at the southern border in Arizona on Feb. 16, 2023. (Allan Stein/The Epoch Times)

Just from what Ive seen, it seemed a little excessive for a guy who doesnt have a criminal history and claiming self-defense and is claiming he didnt even shoot him.

Lamb told The Epoch Times that a first-degree murder charge seemed unusual for the case, given the evidence presented.

I heard the term premeditated. Premeditated first-degree is pretty hard to prove. From what Ive heard, its going to be tough. But I dont know the case.

Santa Cruz County Chief Sheriffs Deputy Geraldo Castillo told The Epoch Times that the department has not investigated a crime of this magnitude [previously] involving a migrant and a rancher.

The investigation continues. Theres a lot still ongoing. I will not be able to comment at this time, Castillo said.

While prosecutors argued that Kelly shot Cuen-Butimea without provocation, Larkin said the case has been highly political from the start.

This essentially lit a match over an incredibly intense political powder keg and, predictably, there was an explosion, Larkin said at a court hearing on Feb. 22.

Kelly declined to comment to The Epoch Times at the probable cause hearing on Feb. 24.
Kari Lake Provides Update on Arizona Election Case

Arizona Republican gubernatorial nominee Kari Lake speaks to supporters during her election night event at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Nov. 8, 2022. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake wrote she will soon be taking her election lawsuit to the states Supreme Court after an appeals court rejected her bid earlier this month to toss the Nov. 8 midterm results.

In a Twitter update on Sunday, Lake confirmed she will be taking her case to the Supreme Court this week. It came about two weeks after the Arizona Court of Appeals rejected her election suit, which alleged that vote-tabulating issues, delays, and long lines in Maricopa County on Election Day disproportionately impacted her chances of winning.

We will be filing our case with the AZ Supreme Court by this Tuesday (2/28) and we will be asking for an expedited review, the GOP candidate wrote. As soon as the filings are available I will share them with you. Please pray for justice. Lake then posted a link to her Save Arizona Fund.

Previously, Lake attempted to transfer her election lawsuit to the states highest court, which rejected her bid. The Supreme Court said earlier this month that it would not take up the case if the Court of Appeals was already hearing it.

In December, Lake filed a lawsuit asking the court to either re-do the election in Maricopa or declare her the winner after the results showed that she trailed former Secretary of State and now-Gov. Katie Hobbs by about 17,000 votes. Hobbs, a Democrat, was sworn-in as governor in early January.

A Maricopa County judge, Peter Thompson, later rejected her case after a two-day trial in late December. The judge ruled that not enough evidence was presented to overturn the Nov. 8 election results in favor of Lake, prompting the Republican to take her case to the states appeals court.

Lawyers for Lake argued in their appeal that Thompson had erred by requiring she provide proof that her allegations of official misconduct affected the election results, including that they intended to deny her victory.

They also pointed to statements made by top Maricopa County officials on Election Day confirming there were vote-tabulating errors. Later, those officials said the issues were corrected and claimed that no voters were disenfranchised, although videos posted by Lake on Twitter that featured Maricopa voters complaining about delays suggest otherwise.

Maricopa County Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Gates speaks to reporters while departing a press conference at the Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center in Phoenix, Ariz., on Nov. 14, 2022. (Jon Cherry/Getty Images)

Her lawyers said that defective printers produced ballots that were too light to be read by the on-site tabulators at dozens of polling places. Lines backed up in some areas amid the confusion.

Lakes attorneys also asserted that the chain of custody for ballots was broken at an off-site facility, where a contractor scans mail ballots to prepare them for processing. They said that workers at the facility put their own mail ballots into the pile, rather than returning them through normal channels, and also that paperwork documenting the transfer of ballots was missing. The county disputes those claims.

The state appeals court rejected her case in mid-Feburary.

Lakes arguments highlight election day difficulties, the appeals court wrote (pdf), but her request for relief fails because the evidence presented to the superior court ultimately supports the courts conclusion that voters were able to cast their ballots, that votes were counted correctly, and that no other basis justifies setting aside the election results.

The three-judge panel added that the GOP candidates claim thus boils down to a suggestion that election-day issues led to long lines at vote centers, which frustrated and discouraged voters, which allegedly resulted in a substantial number of predominately Lake voters not voting. But it added her only purported evidence that these issues had any potential effect on election results was, quite simply, sheer speculation, according to the ruling.

County officials had said that everyone in Maricopa County, home to most of the states population, had a chance to vote and all ballots were counted since ballots affected by the printers were taken to more sophisticated counters at the elections department headquarters.

Meanwhile, there has been speculation that Lake, who grew her national profile considerably as she campaigned for governor, could become a GOP presidential candidates vice president or run for Arizonas Senate seat in 2024. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), a former Democrat-turned-independent, currently occupies the seat but hasnt made a public statement on whether shes running again.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
NDP Leader Singh Joins Calls for Public Inquiry into Alleged Chinese Election Interference

New Democratic Party leader Jagmeet Singh listens to a question from a reporter during a news conference, on Oct. 5, 2022 in Ottawa. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has joined a growing number of politicians and former government advisors who are calling on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to initiate a public inquiry into allegations that the Chinese government interfered in Canadas 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

We accept the outcome of the election, but the serious allegations that individual candidates may have been impacted by foreign interference deserve a thorough, transparent and independent investigation, Singh said in a news release on Feb. 27.

When Canadians learn about possible foreign interference through leaked documents, confidence in our democracy is put at risk.

The NDP leader was referring to recent media reports by Global News and the Globe and Mail citing secret Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) documents and intelligence sources that show widespread election interference carried out by Beijing in Canadas 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

The way to stop alleged secret Chinese interference is to refuse to keep their secrets for them, said Singh. A fully independent and non-partisan public inquiry is the way to shine a light into the shadows.

He added that any investigation into the matter should examine all possible instances of foreign interference and not just attempts by the Chinese regime.

Public Inquiry

Trudeau was asked by reporters on Feb. 27 if he is open to the idea of calling a public inquiry to examine the interference allegations, but the prime minister said the panel on the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol already determined that the integrity of both the 2019 and 2021 elections held.

Trudeau added that the House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security will also soon be studying the matter.

It is extremely important  that Canadians see that this is open, transparent, nonpartisan, [and] independent because were all concerned and worried about our elections integrity, he said.

Singh called Trudeaus apparent reluctance to call a public inquiry baffling.

I share peoples disappointment in Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus shifting and casual response to these incredibly serious allegations. What he knew, when he knew it and how he responded matters, Singh said in the release.

Former CSIS head Richard Fadden and Canadas former chief electoral officer Jean-Pierre Kingsley have both called for a public inquiry.

I think the first thing we need to do is to talk about this seriously, and given the general environment [in] Canada, I dont think its going to work unless we have a public inquiry, Fadden told Global News on Feb. 26.

Omid Ghoreishi contributed to this report.
New Canadians Will Soon Have Option to Swear Citizenship Oath Online in Self-Administered Format

A young new Canadian holds a flag as she takes part in a citizenship ceremony on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on April 17, 2019. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick)

After 76 years of traditional citizenship ceremonies, new Canadians will no longer have to publicly swear an oath to become a citizen as of July 1, under proposed changes to citizenship regulations.

In a Regulatory Impact Analysis Statement obtained by Blacklocks Reporter, the federal Department of Citizenship and Immigration detailed amendments that would give the government broad discretion to allow clients to take the Oath by other means and not necessarily before an authorized individual.

Under the proposed new regulations, the government would modernize the program and allow for self-administration of the Oath of Citizenship.

Clients would be able to take the Oath via a secure online solution, without the presence of an authorized person, which could eliminate up to three months of processing time, or at a ceremony in front of an authorized person, says the document.

The regulations requiring a ceremony would be removed.

The Oath of Citizenship has been a legal requirement to become a Canadian since 1947.

Potential new Canadians must attend a public citizenship ceremony before a judge or other public official, raise their right hand, and state the following: I swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles III, King of Canada, his heirs and successors, and that I will faithfully observe the laws of Canada including the Constitution which recognizes and affirms the Aboriginal and treaty rights of First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples, and fulfil my duties as a Canadian citizen.

The department noted that increased demand, in-person and paper-based processing, as well as COVID considerations, have resulted in processing times well beyond the published service standard of 12 months.

In the 5 years from 20162017 to 20212022, citizenship grant applications have more than doubled, from 113 000 to 243 000. Immigration levels continue to rise, with a target of 500 000 permanent residents for 2025, which will contribute to ongoing increases in citizenship applications, said the document.

The Immigration department says it had launched digital and online initiatives to modernize the program and reduce wait times. The government began offering electronic citizenship applications due to COVID-19 on April 1, 2020, and also provides online citizenship tests, an online tracker, virtual ceremonies, and electronic certificates of Canadian citizenship.

During lockdowns, 15,290 ceremonies were performed by videoconference over a two-year period.

The department said there will be a historic 300,000 new citizenship applications processed this 20222023 fiscal year, an increase of approximately 34 percent over the 2022022 fiscal year, as a result of these innovations, temporary funding, and additional hiring.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine Suffers Injury While in East Palestine

Governor confirms leg injury, says he's 'fine'

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine confirmed that he suffered an injury while he was visiting East Palestine, Ohio, the site of a toxic train derailment that has drawn national headlines in recent weeks.

The Republican governor, 76, told The Columbus Dispatch that he suffered a displaced distal fibula fracture just above his ankle that occurred while he was visiting a church in East Palestine on Feb. 21. It came as the state was opening up a health clinic for residents who live near the train derailment site.

My foot caught on something. Im fine, DeWine told the paper on Feb. 26, noting that hes just not walking [his] dog as much.

A spokesperson for his office confirmed his injury to several media outlets on Feb. 27. Representatives for DeWines administration didnt respond by press time to a request by The Epoch Times for additional comment.

When DeWine visited East Palestine that day, a video went viral showing the governor, Environmental Protection Agency chief Michael Regan, and other officials drinking water from an East Palestine womans home.

One of the things we did today during two home visits was to drink some of the water  the village water, DeWine told local affiliate Fox19. This village water is safe.

Last week, investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report stating that the train derailment was likely caused by an overheating wheel axle. Five of 38 train cars were carrying vinyl chloride, a toxic substance that can increase the risk of cancer or even cause death, the NTSB confirmed.

This was 100 percent preventable.  There is no accident. Every single event that we investigate is preventable, NTSB chair Jennifer Homendy said during a press conference on Feb. 23. The NTSB has one goal, and that is safety and ensuring that this never happens again.

A resident displays a mannequin on their porch in East Palestine, Ohio, as cleanup from the Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern train derailment continues on Feb. 24, 2023. (AP Photo/Matt Freed)

After the train derailed, officials initiated the controlled release and burn-off of materials on the trainincluding vinyl chloridethat sent a large plume of black smoke into the air. Locals in the village have since complained of a range of health problems, including nausea, rashes, respiratory problems, and more.

One man who spoke to the New York Post over the weekend said that since the derailment, his voice has sounded like Mickey Mouse. A video of his interview appeared to confirm the mans unusually high-pitched voice.

My voice sounds like Mickey Mouse. My normal voice is low. Its hard to breathe, especially at night, the man said. My chest hurts so much at night I feel like Im drowning. I cough up phlegm a lot. I lost my job because the doctor wont release me to go to work.

Shelby Walker, another East Palestine resident who lives near the derailment site, said she has also suffered health problems. Her family members have also experienced a variety of symptoms, and yet the cleanup crew drives past us at night and wont even look at us.

Its like we dont exist, Walker said. No one has reached out to us or told us anything.

Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, left, walks with his staff through East Palestine, Ohio, on Feb. 16, 2023. Residents of the Ohio village upended by a freight train derailment are demanding to know if theyre safe from the toxic chemicals that spilled or were burned off to avoid an even bigger disaster. (Lucy Schaly/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette via AP)

The bad smell comes and goes. Yesterday was the first day in probably three or four days that I could smell anything. I lost my smell and my sense of taste. I had an eye infection in both eyes. I was having respiratory issues like I was just out of breath. Other members of my family have had eye infections and strep throat.

On Feb. 26, DeWine issued an update saying that new water monitoring wells will be installed this week at the site of the derailment in East Palestine, noting that these wells will determine if the ground water directly below the site is contaminated.
Oklahoma Senate Moves to Ensure Only US Citizens Are Voting in State Elections

Signs at a shopping center encourage residents to vote in the state's GOP primary runoff elections in Muskogee, Okla., on Aug. 23, 2022. (Jeff Louderback/The Epoch Times)

The Oklahoma Senate has approved legislation aimed to help county election boards remove illegal aliens from voter registration rolls in a move that lawmakers say will prevent unlawful voting from taking place.

The bill, known as SB 377, was authored by state Sen. Brent Howard (R-District 38) at the request of the Oklahoma secretary of the State Election Board.

Specifically, under the legislation, the voter registration of anyone who has been excused from jury duty for not being a U.S. citizen would be canceled.

According to the bill (pdf), the county court clerks would prepare a list each month of all individuals excused from jury duty for not being a citizen of the United States and provide the list to the secretary of the county election board.

Once the list has been acquired, the local election board secretary would then be required to cancel the registration of each registered voter included on the list and report the person or persons to the district attorney and the United States attorney for the county.

The bill, which would go into effect on Nov. 1, passed the Senate in a 451 vote on Feb. 22, with seven of the Senates eight Democrats joining Republicans in supporting the bill.

It had its first reading in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, where Republicans hold a supermajority, on Feb. 23.

Logical Step to Ensure Voter Roll Integrity

Voting is our greatest freedom as U.S. citizens, and we must ensure that our elections are not disrupted by illegal voting, Howard said in a statement on Feb. 22 after the vote.

This is an easy way to help county election boards identify noncitizens who may be registered to vote and remove them from the rolls. County court clerks are already required to submit monthly notifications of felony convictions to the county election board secretaries, so this will be a similar process.

Separately, Howard told The Federalist that the bill is a common-sense approach to ensuring voter roll integrity and preventing unlawful voting.

The Republican lawmakers said the legislation was conceived by the secretary of the State Election Board due to concerns among county officials that individuals might claim, either truthfully or falsely, that they cant serve on a jury because they arent U.S. citizens.

We have other requirements for our court clerks to report to the election secretaries if a person makes a claim that would otherwise disqualify them from being a registered voter, like a convicted felon or moved from the jurisdiction, so we all felt this was a logical step to ensure voter roll integrity, Howard said. We feel the significance [of this bill] is that if someone will self-profess they are unable to serve their civic duty of serving on a jury because they are not a citizen, then we need to ensure they are not also on the voter rolls.

While non-U.S. citizens are prohibited from voting in federal elections, including those for president, vice president, the Senate, and House of Representatives, ambiguous language in constitutions has allowed states or municipalities from granting noncitizens the right to vote in local races or school board elections.

As a result, some states are moving to change the wording of their constitutions as it pertains to voting rights.

People vote at a polling site at a public school in New York City, on Nov. 8, 2016. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

States Ban Voting for Non-US Citizens

In November 2022, voters in Ohio approved an amendment to the state constitution that would reword it from its original, stating that the Ohio Constitution guarantees voting rights for every citizen of the United States who meets certain criteria to only citizens of the United States who meet certain criteria.

In December 2022, Louisiana voters approved a similar measure banning non-U.S. citizens from voting in elections. A string of other states, including Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Minnesota, and North Dakota, have approved similar measures.

Yet while Republican lawmakers seek to ensure that voting is a privilege granted only to U.S. citizens, dozens of Democrat-led states are advocating for noncitizens to be allowed to vote in local elections, pointing to protections under the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In 2022, New York City passed a law extending the right to vote in elections to noncitizens who are lawful permanent residents, but that law was later struck down by a state Supreme Court judge who ruled it was unconstitutional.

In October 2022, the District of Columbia city council approved the Local Resident Voting Rights Amendment Act of 2022, allowing some 50,000 noncitizen residentsincluding those in the country illegallyto vote in local elections as long as they have lived in the district for 30 days.

However, the House of Representatives voted in February to overturn the bill.

Still, states and cities, such as Connecticut and San Francisco, have introduced bills that would allow noncitizens to vote in municipal and state elections.

Earlier in February, Democrats in Rhode Island introduced legislation that would grant cities and towns authorization to allow all residents to vote in their municipal elections, regardless of their immigration status.
Canada Bans TikTok on Government-Issued Devices Over Security Concerns

Canada is planning to ban TikTok from all government-issued devices by Feb. 28 over concerns that the apps data collection methods leave users open to cyber attacks, says Treasury Board President Mona Fortier.

Effective February 28, 2023, the TikTok application will be removed from government-issued mobile devices. Users of these devices will also be blocked from downloading the application in the future, said Fortier in a statement issued on Feb. 27.

Fortier said the governments decision to ban the application from devices it issues comes following a review of TikTok by Chief Information Officer Catherine Luelo, who determined it presents an unacceptable level of risk to privacy and security.

Fortier added that Ottawas banning of TikTok is a precautionary measure given the applications data-collection methods and said that theres no evidence at this point suggesting any government information was compromised through the app.

The decision to remove and block TikTok from government mobile devices is being taken as a precaution, particularly given concerns about the legal regime that governs the information collected from mobile devices, and is in line with the approach of our international partners, the Treasury Board said.

On a mobile device, TikToks data collection methods provide considerable access to the contents of the phone.

President of the Treasury Board Mona Fortier speaks in the foyer of the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Dec. 15, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick)

The general public is still free to download and use TikTok on their own personal devices, but Fortier says the Communications Security Establishments Canadian Centre for Cyber Security strongly recommends that Canadians understand the risks and make an informed choice on their own before deciding what tools to use.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also addressed the TikTok ban during a press conference on Feb. 27.

I suspect that as government takes the significant step of telling all federal employees that they can no longer use TikTok on their work phones, many Canadians from businesses to private individuals will reflect on the security of their own data and perhaps make choices in consequence, he said.

TikTok says the federal government neither cited specific security concerns nor contacted the company with questions prior to announcing the incoming ban, which it calls curious.

We are always available to meet with our government officials to discuss how we protect the privacy and security of Canadians, but singling out TikTok in this way does nothing to achieve that shared goal, a TikTok spokesperson told The Epoch Times via email. All it does is prevent officials from reaching the public on a platform loved by millions of Canadians.

TikTok Bans

Ottawas decision to ban TikTok from government-issued devices comes after the U.S. federal government and over 28 American states banned the app from being downloaded on state-owned devices.

The U.S. Armed Forces have also prohibited the app on military devices.

In Europe, both the European Commission and European Union Council recently ordered staff to remove TikTok from their corporate devices and phones, citing cybersecurity concerns.

TikTok is currently under investigation by Canadas federal Privacy Commissioner Philippe Dufresne, and also by the respective provincial privacy authorities for British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec.

Dufresnes office, which announced the joint investigation on Feb. 23, said the commissioners will examine whether or not TikToks privacy and transparency practices are in line with Canadian legislation and also whether valid and meaningful consent is being obtained [from users] for the collection, use and disclosure of personal information.

The investigation will also determine if the company is meeting its transparency obligations, particularly when collecting personal information from its users, his office wrote in a news release on Feb. 23.
Pennsylvania County Gets Rid of Sanctuary Status Amid Fentanyl Crisis

Butler County, Pennsylvania, has terminated its sanctuary designation and will now cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when dealing with illegal immigrants as the area faces a fentanyl crisis and an uptick in trafficking crimes.

A sanctuary city or county doesnt cooperate with ICE in its efforts to remove illegal immigrants, such as by refusing to hold illegal immigrants in custody in compliance with ICE detainers or not allowing ICE agents to gain access to those who are already in their custody.

On Feb. 21, the Butler County prison board adopted a policy authorizing it to accept ICE detainers accompanied by arrest warrants for illegal aliens in the region. The agency will offer a list of inmates to the county prison on a weekly basis. An ICE detainer will allow the agency to assume custody of an illegal immigrant whos in Butler County prison.

The decision comes as the county sees fentanyl making up a large portion of overdose deaths in the region. A powerful synthetic opioid, Fentanyl is about 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. In 2021, of the 66 overall overdose deaths in Butler County, 57 were attributed to fentanyl.

Our crime is not just DUIs and retail theft anymore. We have drugs, Richard Goldinger, Butler County District Attorney, told WTAE in Pittsburgh. Again, that stuff has not come from citizens that are making fentanyl in Butler County. Its being brought here.

Overwhelmingly Positive Response

The response of the Butler County community to the decision to remove the sanctuary county designation has been overwhelmingly positive, state Rep. Stephenie Scialabba, a Republican who prepared the new policy, said in an interview with Fox News.

You would never think of Butler County or Pennsylvania as a border state, but unfortunately it seems like borders dont matter anymore, she said. So we are seeing an increase in fentanyl deaths and overdoses. We are seeing increases in drug trafficking, human trafficking.

According to Scialabba, the issue arose from an overcompensation by the county in 2014, when a case came out of the 3rd Circuit of Pennsylvania that stated its illegal or unconstitutional to hold someone on an ICE detainer without a warrant.

The county subsequently overcompensated with [its] prison board policies, she said. The result was a policy that she said didnt reflect the county or its practices.

Scialabba pointed out that illegal aliens come to Butler County thinking that its a safe place to commit crimes.

It is not, she said, according to WPXI. Its a safe place to live here and work here, and we welcome you. We want immigrants here, thats what our countrys about. But you have to come here legally; you cant come here and think we wont cooperate with ICE.

Fentanyl in the US

Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that there were 80,816 deaths from synthetic opioids in 2021, a majority of them from fentanyl. This made up 75 percent of the estimated 107,622 drug overdose deaths that year.

According to the 2020 National Drug Threat Assessment report by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, China is the primary source of fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances trafficked through international mail and express consignment operations, as well as the main source for all fentanyl-related substances trafficked into the United States.

Mexican cartels are increasingly importing fentanyl from China, pressing it into pills or mixing it with other pills to create fake versions of drugs such as Adderall, oxycodone, or Xanax. The drugs are then sold in the United States.

Just two criminal networks, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and the Sinaloa Cartel, are believed to supply most of the fentanyl in the United States.
The Costa Rican telecom regulator Sutel has recommended that the countrys science, technology and telecommunications ministry MICITT should start the tender to award spectrum for 5G networks. This follows a feasibility study and a public consultation.

However, as the BNamericas website points out, there are still a few issues that need to be resolved. They include recovery of unused and underutilized spectrum in the 2600MHz and 3500MHz bands and the fact that only the state-owned company  Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE)  currently has spectrum for 5G networks.

A new tender should help to sort that problem out at least, providing 2600MHz band is not excluded; Sutel feels that if 2600MHz is excluded, it will not be possible to take advantage of the economies of scale of the technology.

However, the report indicates that there is sufficient spectrum for each mobile operator in the market to have enough in high and low bands to allow them to deploy 5G networks, though some players estimate that more will eventually be needed.

All three operators  Liberty, Claro and ICE  have reportedly shown interest in acquiring new spectrum for mobile services in the country. APM Terminals, ICE and Liberty are also interested in implementing private mobile networks, as are a number of cooperatives.

ICE may also pursue the development of a national emergency network in the 700MHz band and private networks for monitoring, operation and measurement of its power grid (ICE is Costa Ricas government-run electricity provider as well as a telecommunications services provider).

Companies that provide mobile services, cooperatives, satellite companies and international organizations all participated in Sutel's public consultation. Now, one assumes, its up to MICITT to make the next move.
G | 2 h 17 min | Drama | 1944

Young, handsome Francis Chisholm (Gregory Peck) hopes to marry his childhood sweetheart in his native Scotland. But fate and faith have him pick priesthood. Then the early 20th-century Catholic Church sends him on a mission to the tumultuous province of Pai-tan, China.

He arrives at the mission church ruined by floods. The few faithful who linger, turn out to be notorious rice Christians, ready to rebuild, but theyre in it more for food than faith. Francis will have none of it. He prefers converts who arent also cashing in.

Director John Stahls opening shot frames Francis when hes old, looking diminutive beside a large church building as he returns from a fishing trip, rod in hand. Its 1938 Scotland; the dusk, not the dawn, of his journey. Stahl seems to say that Francis may be overlooked in the episcopal hierarchy, but spiritually, he looms like a colossus.

Angus (Thomas Mitchell), Joseph (Benson Fong), and Father Chisholm (Gregory Peck), in The Keys of the Kingdom. (MovieStillsDB)

Through flashbacks, Stahl looks back at that journey.

Bishop Angus (Vincent Price) asks Monsignor Sleeth (Cedric Hardwicke) for advice: Should Francis continue as priest (as he desires) or retire (as those his age usually do)? Contemplating the aged priests future, Sleeth stumbles upon his private journal recalling his life, in and through his years in China.

At this point, the film traces Franciss career, and we learn that at issue isnt Franciss advancing age or retreating health, but his unconventional tendency to find goodness outside the fold: a gracious mandarin official, his atheist Scottish buddy, American Methodist missionaries (ordinarily his rivals). Sleeth, probing peculiarities in Franciss sermons, recalls one cheeky line of his, The good Christian is a good man, but I found that the Confucianist usually has a better sense of humor!

Francis is no pacifist, yet several people play quiet witness to his deeply spiritual choices. Initially icy Rev. Mother Veronica warms to his humility. Chinese Republican troops admire his courage in facing down Chinese imperial soldiers who endanger vulnerable women and children. And his excitable but willing aide, Joseph, sees how he loves China, sheltering its destitutes and poor, even as he resists its ruthless rulers.

One stirring scene has Francis walk toward imperial bombardment, while hundreds walk away. His secret? He knows he isnt the only one doing the saving. He may have come to save the Chinese, but the miracle may be that the Chinese save him, too. His very habit of reaching out in self-forgetfulness saves him from spite and resentment: This world  is closer to heaven than we think.

Father Chisholm (Gregory Peck) and Mother Veronica (Rose Gardner) work as missionaries in China in The Keys of the Kingdom. (MovieStillsDB)

Sleeths dilemma also ponders the future of the Church that Francis represents: Will it succumb to the mediocrity of populism or follow his brave steps along paths less trodden? Will it stand up to totalitarianism, or ingratiate itself to power, complicitly preserving the status quo?

Fishers of Men

The movies title draws on the Biblical mandate of priesthood, I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven and Stahl makes his point with playful imagery. Like his mentor Rev. McNabb, Francis too loves fishing, but both know its more than a hobby; its also as a Biblical call to mission, I will make you fishers of men.

Audiences typically judge a religion by how its chiefs behave (in Catholicism, the Pope, cardinals, and bishops), less by how the common faithful do (priests, nuns, and laity). Stahl inverts that scheme: The essence of a religion is how daily battles of faith, its loss and resurgence, are fought in the trenches. People win or lose faith not through success (when miracles abound) or failure (when miracles dwindle), but how they respond to both, success and failure; faithful fortitude is miracle enough.

Impossibly broad-shouldered, 6-foot 3-inches tall Peck casts an imposing, but noble, figure alongside his Chinese brethren, who look up to him for more than just his height. His actions indict those superior to him in hierarchy but inferior in matters spiritual.

Father Chisholm (Gregory Peck) and Angus (Thomas Mitchell) with Chinese Republican troops, in The Keys of the Kingdom. (MovieStillsDB)

Materialistic, racist, elitist, and episcopally ambitious Angus, who visits Pai-tan as a monsignor, has little use for prayer and even less for faith: He has it all figured out. Price (even taller than Peck), as Angus, is a study in contrast, yet, Francis dwarfs him in stature.

Veronica watches in awe as Francis gently rebukes his superiors dismissive remarks about the province, clarifying that heathens are not always low, just as Christians are not always high. Franciss 10-minute episode with Angus and 3-minute exchange with Veronica amid church ruins, are sermons by themselves; in both, Francis himself barely speaks.

Francis is no Bible-banger. To him, missionary life isnt a numbers game. Of course, hes a man of prayer but you rarely see him pray; when he does, he whispers.

Bereft of careerism, hes merely trying to live out Gods plan while discerning precisely what that plan is. When his church is destroyed yet again, he says solemnly, As long as I live I shall build my church. He knows that his church isnt a building in the first place. Its inside him. It is him.

A Catholic priest goes to China in lobby card of The Keys of the Kingdom. (MovieStillsDB)

The Keys of the Kingdom

Director: John Stahl

Starring: Gregory Peck, Rose Gardner, Thomas Mitchell, Vincent Price

MPAA Rating: G

Running Time: 2 hours, 17 minutes

Release Date: Dec. 15, 1944

Rated: 5 stars out of 5
Pupils Studying International Baccalaureate Will Be Allowed to Use ChatGPT in Essays

Screens display the logos of OpenAI and ChatGPT in Toulouse, France, on Jan. 23, 2023. (Lionel Bonaventure/AFP via Getty Images)

Pupils will be allowed to quote work generated by the ChatGPT artificial intelligence system in their essays, the International Baccalaureate (IB) has said.

ChatGPT is an AI chatbot capable of producing content mimicking human speech. Accessible for free, the service can be used to generate essays, technical documents, and poetry.

The chatbot has been banned in some schools worldwide after students were caught submitting automatically generated essays as their own work.

But the IB, which offers four educational programmes taken by pupils at 120 schools in the UK, said it will not ban children from using ChatGPT in their assessments as long as they credit it and do not try to pass it off as their own.

Matt Glanville, the qualification bodys head of assessment principles and practice, told The Times of London: We should not think of this extraordinary new technology as a threat. Like spellcheckers, translation software and calculators, we must accept that it is going to become part of our everyday lives.

He said: The clear line between using ChatGPT and providing original work is exactly the same as using ideas taken from other people or the internet. As with any quote or material adapted from another source, it must be credited in the body of the text and appropriately referenced in the bibliography.

To submit AI-generated work as their own is an act of academic misconduct and would have consequences. But that is not the same as banning its use.

Sensible Approach

The IBs approach has won some support in the teaching profession.

Geoff Barton, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said: ChatGPT potentially creates issues for any form of assessment that relies upon coursework where students have access to the internet. Allowing students to use this platform as a source with the correct attribution seems a sensible approach and in line with how other sources of information are used.

We would caution, however, that ChatGPT itself acknowledges that some of the information it generates may not be correct and it is therefore important for students to understand the importance of cross-checking and verifying information, as is the case with all sources.

What is important is that students do not pass off pieces of work as their own when this is not the case, and that they use sources critically and well.

Sarah Hannafin, senior policy adviser at school leaders union NAHT, said: The International Baccalaureate seems to be taking a very sensible approach. We need to respond to technology as it develops, helping children and young people to evaluate the benefits and risks and to understand how to use it appropriately and effectively.

Harder to Mark Schoolwork

A survey by the British Computer Society (BCS), found that 62 percent of computing teachers said AI-powered chatbots such as ChatGPT would make it harder to mark the work of students fairly.

Julia Adamson, managing director for education and public benefit at BCS, said: Computing teachers want their colleagues to embrace AI as a great way of improving learning in the classroom. However, they think schools will struggle to help students evaluate the answers they get from chatbots without the right technical tools and guidance.

She said machine learning needs to be brought into mainstream teaching practice, otherwise children will be using AI for homework unsupervised without understanding what its telling them.

Another danger is that the digital divide is only going to get wider if better-off parents can pay for premium services from chatbotsand get better answers, she added.

School Bans

The proposal to incorporate AI into teaching practices has not been accepted by all educators.

In January, the New York City Department of Education (NYCDOE) has blocked ChatGPT access on its networks and devices amid fears that students will use it to cheat on assignments and other school tasks.

NYCDOE spokesperson Jenna Lyle told Chalkbeat: While the tool may be able to provide quick and easy answers to questions, it does not build critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for academic and lifelong success.

In Australia, the education authorities in several state governmentsincluding New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Western Australiahave banned ChatGPT in their public school systems.

Dangers of AI

Many people have been raising alarm bells over the rising development of AI. In June of last year, Google put a senior software engineer in its Responsible AI ethics group on paid administrative leave after he raised concerns about the human-like behavior exhibted by LaMDA, an AI program he tested.

The employee tried to convince Google to take a look at the potentially serious sentient behavior of the AI. However, the company did not heed his words, he claimed.

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has also warned about the dangers of AI.

I have exposure to the very cutting edge AI, and I think people should be really concerned about it, Musk told attendees of a National Governors Association meeting in July 2017.

I keep sounding the alarm bell, but until people see robots going down the street killing people, they dont know how to react, because it seems so ethereal.

Sam Altman, the CEO of ChatGPT creator OpenAI, said on Feb. 18 that it was critical for AI to be regulated in the future, until it can be better understood. He stated that he believes that society needs time to adapt to something so big as AI.

We also need enough time for our institutions to figure out what to do. Regulation will be critical and will take time to figure out. Although current-generation AI tools arent very scary, I think we are potentially not that far away from potentially scary ones, Altman wrote on Twitter.

Naveen Athrappully, Bryan Jung, and PA Media contributed to this report.
Republicans React to Energy Departments Reported Finding That COVID Likely Leaked From Wuhan Lab

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) speaks during a Senate Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Spending Oversight on Capitol Hill in Washington on Aug. 3, 2022. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Republican lawmakers responded to a news report saying that the U.S. Energy Department had concluded the lab leak theory was likely, saying that the finding supports what many have long suspected.

A Wall Street Journal article on Feb. 26 reported that a classified intelligence report by the Energy Department said that the virus likely leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

So the government caught up to what Real America knew all along, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) wrote in a Twitter post on Sunday.

The responses came as GOP lawmakers ramp up investigations into the origin of COVID-19 and allegations of government-big tech censorship of the debate.

The Energy Department was previously undecided on the issue but now joins the FBI in corroborating the lab leak hypothesis, according to the report. Several people who have read the report said the Departments judgment was made with low confidence, the Journal reported.

Responding to the report on Sunday, White House national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN that the intelligence community does not have a definitive answer on the matter at this point.

Republican lawmakers have been vocal about the theory that the virus leaked from the Wuhan laboratory soon after the onset of the pandemic in 2020. Initially, some health professionals and legacy media outlets dismissed the theory, labeling the theorys proponents as racist and conspiracy theorists.

Fauci

Some lawmakers also accused Anthony Fauci, former head of the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), of colluding with big tech companies, such as Facebook and Twitter, and censoring stories about the lab leak theory via what these companies describe as a crackdown on misinformation.

Fauci knew this immediately but dismissed it because of funding for the Wuhan lab, Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) wrote in another post. We know what happened next  when Fauci spoke Big Tech censored. I exposed this collusion as AG and Ill work to ensure this type of censorship never happens again.

Americans knew this from Day One, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) wrote on Twitter on Sunday. Unfortunately, Big Tech and Big Government silenced them.

Republicans and critics of Fauci have raised concerns about the NIAIDs funding of the Wuhan Institute of Virology via the non-governmental organization EcoHealth Alliance, including for research described by experts as gain-of-function. The NIAID issued about 3.4 million in grants to EcoHealth.

Gain-of-function research makes the virus more deadly by enhancing its pathogenicity, its ability to cause disease and harm the host, or transmissibility, how easily it spreads.

The NIH has denied that the grants were for gain-of-function research, while Fauci has defended the decision to issue the grants to EcoHealth.

More evidence continues to mount that COVID came from the Wuhan lab. Weve uncovered emails showing Dr. Fauci was warned that the virus looked man-made & came from a lab, but he may have acted to cover it up. Why? We need answers & accountability, wrote the official Twitter account of the House Oversight Republican Committee.

Republicans on the committee previously disclosed internal NIH emails that showed Fauci was informed by senior scientists early in the pandemic that the theory that COVID-19 had a natural origin was highly unlikely, even while Fauci was publicly promoting the natural origin theory.

Additional Responses

Republican lawmakers such as Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) took issue with what he described as a lack of transparency in government investigations related to the origins of COVID-19.

The American people deserve the full truth about #covid origins. No more whitewash. I will again introduce legislation to make the US governments intelligence reports on covid open to the people, Hawley wrote.

Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.) echoed Hawleys view.

The elites and academics owe everyone who had legitimate questions and concerns about the origins of COVID an apology, Buck wrote in a Twitter post. The American people deserve to see all the information concerning the Chinese lab leak and the origins of COVID. This wont be forgotten.

Meanwhile, Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) says the United States should focus on the further implications of the report, namely, the need for the U.S. government to act to hold the Chinese regime accountable for the pandemic.

Re. Chinas lab leak, being proven right doesnt matter, Cotton wrote in a Twitter post. What matters is holding the Chinese Communist Party accountable so this doesnt happen again.

Another GOP lawmaker expressed skepticism about the intention behind the Energy Departments report.

Evidence the virus was created/released from a lab has been obvious for years, wrote Sen. Ron Johnson in a Twitter post on Feb. 27. Im skeptical new evidence surfaced. This is more likely an attempt by the Department of @ENERGY to provide cover for themselves as the truth comes to light.

The Epoch Times contacted the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy for comment.

Update: This article has been updated to include a comment from Sen. Ron Johnson.
SpaceX, NASA Postpone Rocket Launch to International Space Station

SpaceX and NASA postponed on Feb. 27 the launch of the International Space Stations (ISS) next crew because of a last-minute technical problem.

The rocket was supposed to lift off at 1:45 a.m. local time from NASAs Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, but the countdown was stopped by engineers overseeing the ground systems. An issue related to the TEA-TEB ignition fluid, which is used to set off the engines for the 230-foot-tall Falcon 9s rocket at liftoff, was found to be the direct cause.

The launch team discovered a problem involving ground equipment used for loading the engine ignition fluid and couldnt be sure there was a full load, NASA officials said. A SpaceX engineer compared that critical ignition system to spark plugs on a car, CBS News reported.

NASA operators decided to call off the launch out of an abundance of caution, SpaceX systems engineer Kate Tice said on the space agencys webcast.

The four crewmembers who waited for hours to lift off in their Dragon capsule atop the Falcon 9 rocket were able to disembark after waiting for the launch vehicle to be drained of fuel.

The SpaceX rocket bound for the space station will ferry two NASA astronauts, Stephen Bowen, a veteran of three space shuttle missions, and first-time flier Warren Hoburg, along with Sultan al-Neyadi, who will be the second astronaut from the United Arab Emirates to travel to space, and Russian cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev.

The Crew-6 team will remain at the space center until the next launch attempt.

Capsule Troubles at the Space Station

The current occupants of the space station had been dealing with a separate transportation issue for some time. The crew had run into supply delays after a Russian Soyuz spacecraft that had transported two Russian cosmonauts and one NASA astronaut to the space station began to leak coolant in December 2022.

Russias space agency, Roscosmos, was able to send a replacement capsule to the ISS on Feb. 23 after the original one was deemed too unsafe from the damage to return the crew safely.

While SpaceX didnt immediately say when it would try again, NASA stated that it would now look to launch the SpaceX Crew-6 mission shortly after midnight on March 2, pending resolution of the technical issue preventing Mondays launch.

Well be sitting here waiting, Bowen said. Were all feeling good.

Bowen and his crewmates will replace the Crew-5 team who have been in space since October 2022. The new crew is expected to remain aboard the orbiting laboratory for up to six months while carrying out science experiments and maintaining the almost 23-year-old space station.

The mission will mark the seventh spaceflight that SpaceX has carried out to bring up astronauts on NASAs behalf since 2020.

Im proud of the NASA and SpaceX teams focus and dedication to keeping Crew-6 safe, NASAs administrator Bill Nelson said in a blog post after the scrubbed launch.

Human spaceflight is an inherently risky endeavor and, as always, we will fly when we are ready.
Ms. Yu Hsiu-ling (C), the president of the Rotary International Zhongli Center District Branch, Ms. Yus husband, and Ms. Wang Hui-chuan (left), the director of the Rotary International DEI, attend Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli, Taiwan, on Feb. 25, 2023. (Dai Deman/The Epoch Times)

MIAOLI, TaiwanMany rotary international directors around Taiwan attended Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli on Feb. 25. Several of them received The Epoch Times interviews and spoke highly of the worlds premier classical Chinese dance company that came from New York.

Flawless and Miraculous

I was mesmerized by Shen Yun and my heart was very touched. I felt the power and beauty of the dancers movements. Its magic and miraculous, said Ms. Yu Hsiu-ling, the president of Rotary International Zhongli Center District Branch.

She said Shen Yun was perfect without a single flaw, and the show delivered strong energy. I saw many theatergoers are inspired and uplifted. Me too, I was encouraged [to be more diligent], she added.

Ms. Yu received the interview with her husband and her friend Ms. Wang Hui-chuan, the director of the Rotary International DEI.

I was very moved. The feeling is like being jolted with electricity, Ms. Wang said with a big smile on her face. The show is majestic from the first second. When I saw the first scene on stage, I just felt its fantastic!

Ms. Wang said Shen Yun presented the beauty from heaven which cant be found on earth normally.

The colors of Shen Yun are gorgeous and bright. You just feel your eyes are lightened when you see them, she said. Shen Yun dancers really presented ancient China. Watching Shen Yun, I felt I was an emperor watching the dances that only an emperor has the right to watch.

New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company, and has a mission to show the beauty and goodness of China before communism. For 5,000 years Chinas civilization was built on values and virtues from the spiritual teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.

Magnificent

Mr. Wu Kuo-sung is the president of the Rotary International Zhongli Branch. He attended Shen Yun with his wife.

The dancers are outstanding. They expressed the Chinese culture very well and comprehensively, he said. The show is magnificent. It inspired us and encouraged us to be good and kind.

Mr. Li Mou-chun is the director and manager of the Rotary International Xin Wu Branch. He said Shen Yun can nourish peoples minds and comfort peoples souls.

Watching Shen Yun, my mind was cleaned and I felt very calm and relaxed, he said. People in current world are very busy and suffer big pressures. People need Shen Yun to calm their souls.

Mr. Li said Shen Yuns dynamic backdrop is very magical and special.

The dancers on the stage entered the backdrop, and the figures on the backdrop came out to the stage! he said. The design is stunning!

Each Shen Yun performance consists of nearly 20 vignettes, presented through highly-expressive art forms such as classical Chinese dance, original orchestral music performed live, soloists who sing in the bel canto tradition, animated digital backdrops, and more.

Mr. Li Mou-chun (L), the director and manager of the Rotary International Xin Wu Branch, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli, Taiwan, on Feb. 25, 2023. (Li I-hsin/The Epoch Times)

Should Learn from Shen Yun

Mr. Yang I-hsiung is the head of a hard hat company. He, his wife, and his son joined the Rotary International group and attended Shen Yun together.

The dancers danced very professionally. They danced like divine beings. Their expressions are very powerful and magical, he said. The music is also very beautiful and elegant and pleasant to my senses. Actually, I felt shocked when I heard this music!

Mrs. Yang enjoyed Shen Yun as well. She said the show is super beautiful and very bright. I was fascinated by it and forgot to blink my eyes in the over-two hours.

The Yang couple said the traditional culture and values that Shen Yun delivered were very important and touching.

We should remember the traditional cultures. I was very impressed that Shen Yun uses dances and the artistic methods to present the history and traditional stories, said Mr. Yang.

Chinese history respects the virtues like loyalty, propriety, wisdom, justice, and benevolencevalues that are universal and shared the world over.

The Yang family expressed their appreciation for Shen Yun artists and said everybody can learn from them.

Reporting by Epoch Times Staff in Miaoli, Taiwan.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Senators Call for Declassifying Assessment That COVID-19 Likely Came From Chinese Lab

U.S. senators are calling for President Joe Bidens administration to declassify materials regarding the origins of COVID-19.

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) wrote on Twitter that documents described in a Wall Street Journal report should be declassified.

President Biden needs to declassify everything we know today, Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) added.

According to the report, the U.S. Energy Department is assessing that the pandemic likely started from a Wuhan laboratory leak.

The assessment was described in a document authored by the office of Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, a Biden appointee, the Journal reported.

The Energy Department, the White House, and Hainess office didnt respond to requests for comment.

The Energy Department told news outlets in a statement that it continues to support the thorough, careful, and objective work of our intelligence professionals in investigating the origins of COVID-19, as the President directed.

Biden in 2021 said he had asked the intelligence community to redouble their efforts to collect and analyze information that could bring us closer to a definitive conclusion on the origins of COVID-19.

In an assessment (pdf) declassified later that year, the intelligence community, which Haines oversees, was split as to the origins of COVID-19.

Four intelligence community elements assessed with low confidence that COVID-19 came from animals, while one element stated that the pandemic likely started with a laboratory-associated incident at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, according to the declassified report.

Three other elements remain unable to coalesce around either explanation, the report stated. All agencies assess that two hypotheses are plausible: natural exposure to an infected animal and a laboratory-associated incident.

The individual elements werent identified.

Intelligence community entities include the FBI, the Energy Department, and the CIA.

The State Department has assessed, in a document (pdf) made public in 2022, that a lab leak was the most likely origin of COVID-19.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) on Feb. 26 said he would introduce legislation that would make all U.S. intelligence reports on COVID-19 open to the people.

A worker inside the P4 laboratory in Wuhan, capital of Chinas Hubei Province, on Feb. 23, 2017. (Johannes Eisele/AFP via Getty Images)

No Animal Host Found

The first COVID-19 cases were detected in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. The United States has funded experiments at the Wuhan lab there.

No animal host for the virus that causes COVID-19 has been identified to date. Chinese Communist Party officials have repeatedly rebuffed attempts to probe the origins of the pandemic and have made various unsubstantiated claims, including that the illness stemmed from U.S. experiments.

The new reporting, top Republicans said, bolsters the position that the virus originated in the lab.

This report affirms our belief that the substantial circumstantial evidence favors COVID-19 emerging from a research-related incident, Rep. Cathy Rodgers (R-Wash.), who chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Reps. Morgan Griffith (R-Va.) and Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.), members of the panel, said in a joint statement.

These revelations also further strengthen the need to uncover why high-ranking government officials, with help from Big Tech and the media, sought early on to silence any debate into a plausible theory of a lab incident while the Chinese Communist Party stonewalled investigations by the global scientific community, they added.

Dr. Anthony Fauci and other top government officials worked to suppress talk of a possible lab leak.

Sullivan Responds

Asked about the new report, national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on CNN on Feb. 26 that there is a variety of views in the intelligence community.

Sullivan said he wouldnt confirm or deny the Journals reporting but confirmed that Biden had asked that the department be brought into this assessment because he wants to put every tool at use to be able to figure out what happened here.

If we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress and we will share it with the American people. But, right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question, he added.

Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) said on NBC on Feb. 26 that public hearings need to be held on the matter.

I think we need to have public hearings on this and really dig into it, he said. Think about what just happened over the last three years: one of the biggest pandemics in a century. A lot of evidence that its coming from the Chinese, and when other countries even raise it, like Australia, the Chinese use their coercive economic activities to shut people up. So I think we need to do extensive hearings.

The Republican-held House has launched probes of COVID-19, including the pandemic origins and COVID-19 vaccines.

Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio), who chairs the new House Oversight Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, told The Epoch Times sister media outlet NTD Television that investigating the origins is important.

Specifically to the origins, we feel its important to understand the evolution of [it]  and the more we knowwhether its lab or naturalthe more we know about it, the greater ability we would have to protect ourselves in the future, he said.

The House Oversight Committee told outlets that intelligence officials responded to a Feb. 13 letter from Wenstrup and Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) asking for information about the COVID-19 origins. The panel said that it is reviewing the classified information provided.
Mr. CJ Liu, the president of AICEE Taiwan, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts with his wife at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli, Taiwan, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Chen Yu-jou/The Epoch Times)

MIAOLI, TaiwanA Taiwanese diplomat in education who serves as the president of a cultural association enjoyed Shen Yun at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli on Feb. 26. He said Shen Yun presents very pure Chinese culture, which is rarely seen in the world.

Shen Yun shows the beauty of traditional Chinese culture and universal values by using dance, said Mr. CJ Liu. Its encouraging to see upright people beat the evil in the dance. We should cherish these values, such as freedom, democracy, etc.

Mr. Liu is the president of Association of International Cultural and Educational Exchange Taiwan (AICEE Taiwan). He was director of the International Culture and Education Division of Taiwan Education Ministry, and has worked as a diplomat in education in Washington and New York and London.

Attending Shen Yun, Mr. Liu was impressed with the perfection achieved through the cooperation between Shen Yun dancers and musicians.

This is a comprehensive show. It has dances, music, and even advanced technology, he said, referring to the patented dynamic backdrop. The live orchestra is great. The music is very pleasant to the ears and made the performance easier to understand.

He felt happy to see a show that presents the pure Chinese culture.

Its hard to find a comparable show. Shen Yun presents very pure and very good Chinese culture. Its very good to see that people around the world can enjoy the real Chinese culture by attending Shen Yun, he said. Shen Yun presents the compassion and kind side of the traditional culture. It tells people these good values and mindsets.

Mr. Liu said he hopes more people can attend Shen Yun and know the Chinese culture.

Im very glad that the artistic director brought us these super wonderful dances, he said.

New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds top classical Chinese dance company, and has a mission to show the beauty and goodness of China before communism.

Inspiring Kindness

The Miaoli county fire chief was in awe at Shen Yun after attending on Feb. 26.

With the dynamic backdrop in the back, the live orchestra under the stage, and the dancers dancing on the stage, Shen Yun took me into these historical stories, said Mr. Kuang Meng-lin. Its majestic! Its astounding!

He said Shen Yun is precious because of the values present in the art.

In the dance which talked about several students who couldnt finish the poem, and Confucius tried to enlighten them to work for the people  This dance resonated with my heart, said Mr. Kuang. As a staff member of the government, I frequently tell my staff to be kind to people and that our job is helping people.

He said each Shen Yun program delivered different values, all very important to people.

The times keep changing  But what is the best way? I think we have to identify it, he said. This performance really inspires us. You just sit there and watch, and you will arrive at a different understanding. I think this is positive energy.

For 5,000 years Chinas civilization was built on values and virtues from the spiritual teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, virtues like loyalty, propriety, wisdom, justice, and benevolencevalues that are universal and shared the world over.

Mr. Kuang felt Shen Yun suitable for all people, and he was glad that he saw it with his family.

All dances are very enchanting. I really love them, said Mr. Kuang. This world-class show is very well worth seeing.

Mr. Kuang Meng-lin, the Miaoli county fire chief, attends Shen Yun Performing Arts with his wife at the Miaobei Art Center in Miaoli, Taiwan, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Annie Gong/The Epoch Times)

Brings Positive Energy to Our Daily Lives

Mr. Huang Shih-han is a legislator and the deputy executive secretary of a committee at the Taiwan Executive Yuan. He was deeply impressed by Shen Yun dancers.

Shen Yun dancers are very focused on their every gesture. I felt that they danced with their lives. I really admire them, he said. Shen Yun dancers have the best techniques and skills in the world.

Mr. Huang said Shen Yun female dancers were like heavenly maidens, very elegant and graceful, and the male dancers were very valiant.

Shen Yun is at the highest artistic level, and in the most natural way, it brings positive energy to our daily lives, he said. The music is played by Western instruments and Eastern instruments. The instruments matched each other so harmoniously, and the music perfectly presents the stories.

Mr. Huang said he was touched to tears when he saw the stories that highlighted values such as loyalty and respect.

Shen Yun connects with our lives. It uses the dances to deliver the messages which can correct our bad habits, such as overusing the cellphone, he said. Shen Yun uses the artistic form to deliver these messages in a very natural manner. I think this is fantastic!

Reporting by Epoch Times Staff in Miaoli, Taiwan.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Debbie Walsh at the Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas on Feb. 26, 2023. (Linda Jiang/The Epoch Times)

LAS VEGASIt is the most visually intriguing and beautiful thing that I have ever seen, said Debbie Walsh at the Shen Yun Performing Arts performance on Feb. 26.

The strength, the history, the longevity, and of course the beauty  is phenomenal, she said.

The third time seeing Shen Yun, Mrs. Walsh and her daughter attended the matinee performance at the Smith Center for the Performing Arts in Las Vegas.

New York-based Shen Yun is the worlds premier classical Chinese dance and music company. Shen Yun performs classical Chinese dance, ethnic and folk dance, and story-based dance, with orchestral accompaniment and solo performers. According to the companys website, the presented heroes in the story-based dances embody the most exalted virtues of Chinese civilizationvalues still relevant to the modern day.

Shen Yun Performing Arts aims to revive Chinas 5,000-year-old traditional culture. The company says its performance this year demonstrates China before communism.

As the director of development for the Childrens Miracle Network at St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation, Mrs. Walsh said the principles of Shen Yun resonate with her because her values at work are taking care of each other [and] expressing beauty.

Mrs. Walsh wanted her daughter to see Shen Yun so she could understand the values and principles of ancient China.

By exposing the next generation to ancient traditions, she hopes it will help to preserve the culture.

I want her to see the cultures of the world and the sad parts that are happening in Chinathis beautiful display of art [that] is being suppressed, she said, the values must be taught to the children or  it will go away and we cant have that.

Very Encouraging to See

I was astounded  I didnt know anything about the show prior to coming here, said Jodi Perales, business owner, who also attended the matinee performance of Shen Yun at the Smith Center for the Performing Arts on Feb. 26.

[It] relays a beautiful message both musically, artistically, theologically, theoretically, philosophically, she said.

I was absolutely intrigued and captivated  its very encouraging to see.

Ms. Perales was very impressed with Shen Yuns orchestra, which blends traditional Chinese instruments into a classical Western orchestra.

I was very impressed by the ancient Chinese instruments, she said. The woman who performed with the two strings  I was so fascinated with the depth that that instrument was able to convey.

The erhu, sometimes called the Chinese violin, is a two-stringed instrument capable of conveying a broad range of emotionseven imitating sounds from chirping birds to neighing horsesexplains Shen Yuns website.

Regarding the companys virtuoso vocalists who sing Chinese lyrics using the authentic bel canto style, Ms. Perales said she was very pleased and unexpectedly surprised by the spiritual undertones of the performance.

I was very, very pleased to see the lyrics  and to make reference to the divine and the mercy that divinity shows on us  and the redemption we have, she said.

It was incredible to see because it was not anything that I expected, especially considering the world we live in, she added.

While many would assume that anything spiritual must be religious, Chinas authentic culture is inseparable from its spiritual heritagewhere a pantheon of divine beings, spiritual cultivators, and mythology has shaped the culture for thousands of years.

According to Shen Yun, ancient Chinese music, medicine, calligraphy, clothing, and language were believed to have been brought down from the heavens and daily life was replete with rituals connecting man with the divine.

I felt like it was very, very bold to say that faithlessness and atheism actually will ruin us and I believe that  thats so true, said Ms. Perales.

Maybe it will help people to see that this beauty comes from an inner form of divinity, she said, so when you enjoy that, you might want to delve a little deeper and see how there really is a divine origination of all that.

Reporting by Linda Jiang and Jennifer Schneider.

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
SoCal Dries Out After 2-Day Drenching, With More Rain On The Way

A rainbow appears between palm trees during a winter storm that blanketed the region with rain, snow, and hail in Redondo Beach, Calif., on Feb. 25, 2023. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)

LOS ANGELESSouthern California was beginning to dry out from two days of virtually nonstop rain Feb. 26, although thousands of people remained without electricity in Los Angeles County and more rain is in the forecast over the next three days.

The powerful winter storm dumped 10.79 inches of rain on Woodland Hills through Sunday morning, 9.29 inches in La Canada Flintridge, 8.38 inches in Newhall, 8.11 inches in Pasadena, 6.88 inches in Burbank, 6.76 inches in Bel Air, and 4.49 inches in downtown Los Angeles, according to the National Weather Service.

Mountain High received 93 inches of snow, and Mount Wilson got 40 inches.

Some highways and surface streets were flooded Saturday, and authorities advised people not to travel if they can avoid it. Skies were partially clear Sunday morning, but the weather agency said travel in the mountain areas would still be very dicey through the day.

The following highway closures were ongoing Sunday:

Interstate 5 was closed through the Tejon Pass from Parker Road to Grapevine Road.

State Route 138 was closed in northern LA County from I-5 to 190th Street West.

State Route 2 in the Angeles National Forest was closed from two miles north of I-210 to Vincent Gulch Road.

State Route 39 in the Angeles National Forest was closed at East Fork Road.

Power Outages

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power said 49,000 of its 1.5 million electric customers were still without power late Sunday morning. Since the start of the storm Friday, crews had restored power to more than 98,000 customers.

The remaining outages were spread across the utilitys service area with some of the hardest hit communities being Glassell Park, Green Meadows, Hancock Park, Hollywood, Studio City, Chatsworth, Mission Hills, North Hollywood, Sun Valley, Tarzana, Van Nuys, and Woodland Hills.

Meanwhile, Southern California Edisons outage map showed 33 outages affecting more than 4,800 customers in Los Angeles County as of 11 a.m. Sunday, and five outages in Orange County affecting more than 1,300 customers.

Firefighters and paramedics performed the latest of several water rescues Sunday in a remote section of the Tujunga Wash in Sunland. Two people and a cat who were camping inside a vehicle in a remote section of the wash were rescued by helicopter after the area was filled with stormwater. The two people were being treated for hypothermia.

More Rain On The Way

Another storm system was expected to bring periods of rain and mountain snow to the Southland late Sunday through Wednesday. Gusty winds are possible for periods of time, especially Monday, before a warming and drying trend takes shape later in the week.

Scattered showers, isolated thunderstorms, and some hail were expected Sunday afternoon and evening and early Monday, with the potential for minor urban flooding.

Temperatures continue to be well below normal. Daytime highs on Sunday were 54 degrees in downtown Los Angeles, 52 in North Hollywood, 51 in Pasadena, and 49 in Valencia. Those numbers were expected to be roughly the same over the next few days.

Lows are mostly in the 30s, dropping to the 20s in some mountain areas and in the 40s in Orange County.

Knotts Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain reopened Sunday after both parks were closed Friday and Saturday.

This weekend was the first time downtown Los Angeles received at least 2 inches of rain on consecutive calendar days since Feb. 28 and March 1 of 1978, according to the National Weather Service.

The weather service added that Friday was the wettest February day at Burbank Airport since records began there in 1939, beating the previous record of 4.50 inches set on Feb. 8, 1993.

San Diego County

San Diego County residents should get a break Sunday after a relentless storm brought heavy snow and icy roads to the mountains and flooding elsewhere, leading to multiple road closures.

Sundays forecast called for partly cloudy skies, isolated rain showers, and westerly wind gusts of up to 45 mph in some areas with highs in the 40s to 60s.

A winter weather advisory is in place until noon Sunday for the mountains. In the desert areas, a wind advisory will remain in effect until 6 p.m. Sunday.

Alpine received 1.07 inches of rain Saturday, breaking a Feb. 25, 2003, record of .77 inches. El Cajon received 1.12 inches, breaking a Feb. 25, 1996, record of 1 inch.

Flooding occurred in low-lying areas around the San Diego River. Both lanes of Mission Center Road in Mission Valley were closed between Friars Road and Camino De La Reina due to flooding.

Two people were rescued by lifeguards Saturday when their vehicle was trapped in flooding on Pacific Highway near the San Diego Airport. Lifeguards performed the rescues and the two people were assessed for injuries.

The short break in precipitation was predicted for Sunday afternoon through Monday morning, but a pair of disturbances moving onshore to the north could bring back rain and snow showers Monday afternoon through midweek.

It will remain cool all week, with daytime temperatures running well below average.
Social Elite Murder Case: 5 Arrested for Suspected Involvement

Police found victim's head and some body parts

(L) Model Abby Choi posed for a photo in Hong Kong on Feb. 11, 2023. (Pao Jo-yee via AP). (R) One of the suspects, with a black hood over his/her head, was escorted to court by police car. (Big Mack/The Epoch Times)

Abby Choi Tin-fung, a 28-year-old social elite model and daughter-in-law of the founder of the TamJai Group, was killed and dismembered. As of Feb. 26, Hong Kong Police had arrested five people, including the victims ex-husbands parents, ex-husband, ex-husbands brother, and a mistress of the ex-husbands father.

Police Update

Police met with the media at a news conference on the evening of Feb. 26. Hong Kong Police Superintendent Chung Nga-lun told reporters they had retrieved the severed head of murder victim Choi.

The police and coroner were examining some evidence from the crime scene, including a tall stainless steel cooking pot. The police discovered a skull inside the cooking pot. Upon preliminary investigation, the police believed that the skull belonged to a young female and the victim of the murder.

West Kowloon Regional Criminal Headquarters Superintendent Chung Nga-lun provided an account of the progress of the murder case, in Lung Mei Village, Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Big Mack/The Epoch Times)

Police officers noted the suspected evidence placed outside the unit involved in the murder of Abby Choi, in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Feb. 25, 2023. (Big Mack/The Epoch Times)

However, Chung said the police would only be able to confirm the identity after reviewing the DNA and teeth records. Additionally, the police found a hole on the right side of the skull, and it was likely caused by force trauma with a hard object. Police discovered a skinless skull in a pot of soup.

The case coroner believed that the hole could be one of the causes of death. The police found rib bones, hair, and human tissue-like substances in the cooking pot.

In a smaller cooking pot, the coroner also found human bones.

5th Person Arrested

The 5th person arrested is a 47-year-old Chinese female charged with aiding and abetting in the afternoon of Feb 26 in Tsim Sha Tsui. She was said to be working in the escort industry, met the ex-husbands father, and later became his mistress.

Local media discovered the ex-husbands father was a former police sergeant who had been accused of raping a female victim during an investigation case in 2005.

Four suspects, three men and one woman, were escorted by police to the Kowloon City Court on Feb. 27. One of the suspects, with black hoods over his head, was escorted to court by a police car. (The Epoch Times)

He is the mastermind. He wants his whole family involved in the crime, and theres no turning back. Chung said to the reporter of the Epoch Times.

The two rented the house in Tai Po Village, where the crime occurred. The woman rented another unit in Tsim Sha Tsui as a hideout for the victims ex-husband.

Of the four people who were arrested, two of the males had been charged with murder. One female was charged with obstructing police work. The victims ex-husband, apprehended by the police earlier in Tung Chung, has been charged with murder.

The police suspected Choi was attacked in the car, and she was most likely unconscious when she arrived at the house in Tai Po. The time of death is still yet to be determined.

The Department of Drainage Services also sent officers to the scene to check the manholes in Lung Mei Village, Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Feb. 26, 2023. (Big Mack/The Epoch Times)

When police initially took the 50 cm tall stainless steel cooking pot, there was fat-solidified liquid on the top. Carrots and green radishes were found in the cooking pot; bits of meat were suspected to be human tissue. The coroner and forensic experts at the crime scene advised against on-site testing to preserve the evidences original conditions.

The police took the pot full of liquid to the morgue for further examination.

Police believed that they had arrested all suspects involved in the case, a total of five people. The police are still looking for the torso, arms, and other missing body parts.

The police recovered the skull of the victim, and the detectives of the West Kowloon Crime Unit collected evidence in a village house at No. 56B in Lung Mei Village, Tai Po, Hong Kong, on Feb.26, 2023. (Big Mack/The Epoch Times)

Chung also pointed out that all arrested suspects have been uncooperative, which makes the investigation more difficult and time-consuming to locate evidence.

4 Arrested Persons in Court

On Feb.27, four suspects, three men and one woman, were escorted by police to the Kowloon City Court. The suspects, with black hoods over their heads, were escorted to court in police vehicles. All four defendants were denied bail and remanded in custody until May 8th, pending further investigation by the police, including scientific forensic evidence and telephone records.

Socialite Abby Choi Tin-fung, 28 years old, was murdered and dismembered. Four suspects, three men and one woman, were escorted by police to the Kowloon City Court on Feb. 27. Suspects, with black hoods over their heads, were escorted to court by police vehicles. (Big Mack/The Epoch Times)

What We Know So Far

Choi has four children. Two of them were with her ex-husband.

According to reports, Choi boarded an SUV in Kadoorie Hill on Feb. 21, driven by her ex-husbands brother. They headed to Tai Po Science Park to pick up Chois daughter. As the car neared the Lion Rock Tunnel, the SUV stopped to pick up the victims ex-husband, Alex Kwong Kong-chi. Reports said an argument occurred in the vehicle, and the victim was attacked and unconscious. There were blood stains in the car.

After that, the SUV vehicle arrived at a house in Lung Mei Village in Tai Po, where the deceased was dismembered and parts were cooked. The victims ex-husband later fled the scene. Chois ex-father-in-law drove another SUV with a China-Hong Kong license plate to dispose of some of the victims body parts.

Friends Responded

Taiwanese fashion influencer Doris Lin was a close friend of Choi. After Lin received the news of Chois murder, she revealed on Instagram that Choi still regarded her ex-husbands family as her own, even after their divorce.

Didnt she care about your previous fraud case, your fathers sexual assault case, your brothers debts, your mothers application for bankruptcy? Choi still looked after your entire family financially!

Lin also wondered if Choi would have gotten into the SUV Kwongs brother drove that day if she did not trust the family.

Moka Fang, another close friend of Choi, shared her heartbreak on Weibo and Instagram on the evening of Feb. 26.

I am devastated. I still cannot believe it. I kept on asking why a thousand times. Rest in peace.

Fang and Choi regularly appeared in each others videos and photos on social media.

Chois Murder Timeline

Feb. 21

Choi disappeared and was murdered

Choi boarded an SUV driven by the brother of her ex-husband Alex Kwong Kong-chi.

Choi was on the way to pick up her daughter from school at Tai Po Science Park.

The SUV stopped at the entrance to Lion Rock tunnel to pick up ex-husband Kwong.

Police suspected Choi was attacked and lost consciousness inside the vehicle.

Blood stains in the car suggested that Choi might have been killed in the vehicle.

The murder suspects drove to Lung Mei Village in Tai Po, where the victim was dismembered and cooked in a house rented by Kwongs father.

Feb. 22

Chois ex-father-in-law drove an SUV with a China-Hong Kong license plate. He took body parts and disposed of them.

The police announced Chois disappearance, pleading to the public for information.

Feb. 24

Remains found in the house at Tai Po Village

Police arrived at the house in Lung Mei Village to collect evidence.

Police seized two pots of soup believed to include human tissues.

Torso, arms, head and other body parts were missing.

Police arrested three of Kwongs family members, including the ex-husband, Kwongs parents, and brother.

Police believed money was the murder motive. There was an ongoing dispute involving tens of millions of HK dollars, believed to be the motive for the murder.

Police said the house of the crime was carefully arranged by the murderer(s).

The police believed the murderer(s) rented the house purely to mutilate the victim.

There is only one comb and one table in the unit; neither of the two rooms has beds, but there were tools, including meat grinders, chainsaws, plus long raincoats, face masks, and gloves. Canvas hung on the walls and windows

Feb. 25

A large-scale search for human remains.

Police dispatched about 100 police officers, including drone search teams and a police dog team, to Tseung Kwan O cemetery to search for missing body parts.

The remains of the deceased could not be located.

Police arrested four people, ex-husband Alex Kwong, his parents, and his brother.

In the afternoon, Kwong was arrested at the Tung Chung Development Pier. Police believed Kwong was trying to flee Hong Kong.

Kwong was detained for investigation at the time.

He was sent to the hospital around 6 p.m. after claiming he was feeling unwell.

He was sent to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for treatment.

Feb. 26

Police found a head and ribs in the soup.

Police returned to the Tseung Kwan O Cemetery for another search of the body remains.

Divers searched several reservoirs.

Police did a thorough search of the house and inspected nearby areas, including sewage.

In the evening, police discovered bones in the tall stainless steel pot they seized from the house.

Upon testing, human skull fragments, skin, tissues, and rib bones were in the pot.

Police recovered the victims head, but it was only a skinless, fractured skull.

Police suspected the deceased was attacked and killed by blunt force trauma on her head.

Feb. 27

The four arrested persons appeared in Kowloon City Court and were remanded until May 8.

(Big Mack contributed to the article).
Nokia has announced at MWC 2023 an updated company and technology strategy, and unveiled a refreshed brand, as part of what it calls its long-term strategic transformation.

Nokia says its refreshed company strategy is focused on further acceleration across six pillars:

Grow market share with service providers, driven by continued technology leadership

Expand the share of enterprises within its customer mix

Continue to manage its portfolio actively, to ensure a path to a leading position in all segments where it decides to compete

Seize opportunities from sectors beyond mobile devices to monetize Nokias IP and continue to invest in R&D for Nokia Technologies

Implement new business models, such as as-a-service

Develop environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) into a competitive advantage and become the trusted provider of choice in the industry.

To deliver these pillars Nokia says it has four key enablers: develop future-fit talent; invest in long-term research, especially in key domains such as 6G; digitalise its own operations to further improve agility and productivity; and refresh the brand.

Nokias updated technology strategy details how networks will need to evolve to meet the demands of the metaverse era. As the world evolves to increasingly rely on connectivity, Nokia says the network will become the underlying fabric to everything digital where network performance and consumability will have equal weight and importance. The qualities of traditional networking, it suggests, will be required to integrate with the flexibility and scalability of cloud.

These networks that sense, think and act have the potential to bring the transformative power of networking to every industry.

Nokia says it is well positioned to lead this transformation through its expansive best-of-breed portfolio and industry-leading disruptive research from Nokia Bell Labs. At MWC, Nokia is launching a new slate of products and services to demonstrate and enhance its technology leadership.

In line with its updated company strategy, Nokia says it is refreshing its brand to signal who it is today: a B2B technology innovation leader realizing the potential of digital in every industry.

The company says its new logo is emblematic of an energized, dynamic, and modern Nokia, demonstrating its values and purpose. It has been designed as a symbol of collaboration, which Nokia believes to be critical for realizing the exponential potential of networks: unlocking gains in sustainability, productivity and accessibility.
A 19th-century philosopher uses stories to light the way through modern struggles

Depending on who you ask, the present age seems to be one in which were either struggling up a mountain toward utopia or running off a cliff. Many of those who hold the latter view feel they have little control over the state of things, despite their best efforts to steer hearts and minds toward green pastures.

A parable by the Danish writer Soren Kierkegaard encapsulates this struggle:

It happened that a fire broke out backstage in a theater. The clown came out to inform the public. They thought it was just a jest and applauded. He repeated his warning. They shouted even louder. So I think the world will come to an end amid general applause from all the wits who believe that it is a joke.

Kierkegaard dedicated his life to warning his age of its failings and pointing toward a way out. But, as prophets seldom profit from their efforts, he was largely unsuccessful. The present era, which finds itself mired in even deeper problems than that one, is only just beginning to appreciate his lessons.

The Philosophical Life

Kierkegaard was born in Copenhagen in 1813. As a young man, he broke off an engagement to a beautiful woman because he felt marital duties were incompatible with his lifes purpose: to be a great philosopher. After his father died, he received an inheritance that gave him the financial freedom to pursue this ambition.

Hes unusual among philosophers for his engaging writing style. After a long section of analysis, Kierkegaard will tell a story that captures its main point. These memorable parables, with their condensed plots, limited characterization, and unexpected conclusions, dont merely explain his ideas but direct the way to moral or spiritual illumination. One can only understand something by living it, Kierkegaard thought. In this way, hes comparable with another great parable-teller in historyJesus.

While his philosophical texts themselves are read mostly in universities, a popular oral tradition has arisen surrounding his parables. This is especially the case in Denmark, where hes recognized as the greatest thinker that nation has ever produced. According to Thomas C. Oden, editor of the Parables of Kierkegaard (Princeton University Press, 1978), The mind of Kierkegaard has been kept alive in the common memory more by his parables than any other part of his authorship.

A Danish theologian, philosopher, and poet, Soren Kierkegaard wrote extensively on faith and religion. (Public domain)

Against Determinism

Kierkegaard carved out his intellectual position by attacking the German philosopher G.W.F. Hegela major influence on Karl Marxwho thought that all of history was moving toward a perfect endpoint in the modern Prussian state. Hegels writing style was difficult and reflected his own abstract, logical method. While Hegel wrote of the influence of dictators such as Julius Caesar and Napoleon, whom he referred to as world-historical individuals, he contended that average people had no control over events. The most they could do was come to understand the objective truth about where society was inevitably leading them. Hegel, like Marx, was a historical determinist.

Kierkegaard objected: What sane person could ever believe in such a thing? The scientific outlook that was rising to dominance in his lifetime favored pure objectivity. But did such an ideal mean anything from an individual perspective? Was it a desirable goal or even possible? In Philosophical Fragments, he wrote, The objective truth as such, is by no means adequate to determine that whoever utters it is sane; on the contrary, it may even betray the fact that he is mad, although what he says may be entirely true.

This idea is best illustrated through a wonderful parable. Kierkegaard describes a patient who escapes from an insane asylum and, to avoid being recognized, resolves to say only whats objectively true. Walking along, he picks up a ball and puts it into his pocket. The ball reminds him of the earth. With every step he takes, the ball strikes him and he says, Bang, the earth is round. Arriving in town, he wants to convince a friend that hes not crazy, so he repeats this phrase. But by the very way he keeps repeating the fact, hes identified as the escaped madman. Moreover, curing him wouldnt involve convincing him that the earth is flat.

Kierkegaards point here isnt that there is no objective trutha common notion todaybut that objective facts are related through personal experience. Enforcing objectivity on others in the name of history or science is a bit like shackling sane people in an asylum run by a madman.

Misappropriation

Kierkegaard is a classic example of a writer who sacrifices everything for his art. In a little more than a decade, he threw all his energy into writing dozens of books and essays. Then in 1855, after having taken out the last of his inheritance from his father from the bank, he collapsed in the street. Wasting away in a hospital, he expressed regret that he hadnt married and had a family. He was 42 when he died.

His writings became famous in the 20th century. Some philosophers, seeing him as a precursor, assimilated him into the existential school of thought. The term was itself coined by Kierkegaard to refer to the importance of the ethically existing subject. For Kierkegaard, however, the religious life represented the highest stage of human existence. Almost everything he wrote is directed toward that end. French atheists such as Jean-Paul Sartre isolated some of his concepts while ignoring others.

To boil down Sartres basic idea to a cliche, people lead authentic lives when they exercise the freedom to choose. The particular choices they make arent something Sartre stops to moralize about. For Kierkegaard, however, certain choices lead in the right direction, while others lead to despair and confusion. Authentic living ultimately involves leaving reason behind and making a leap of faith. Sartres brand of secular existentialism islike so many modern ideasa neutered version of an older, more profound theory.

Sartres admiration of freedom without limits had nihilistic implications that, in jettisoning Kierkegaards spirituality, jettisoned ethics as well. Licensing all behavior represents the flip side of historical determinism. And since a moral void brings in its train alternative ideologies seeking to fill it, its no surprise that Sartre himself converted to Marxism a decade after publishing Being and Nothingness. Although these two paradigms are polar opposites, they result in similarly evil consequences and share the same ring of false piety.

Readers who go to Kierkegaard himself and skip the layers of interpretation will find no shortage of wisdom for our times. He had much to say about bad faith, which is best conveyed in a parable about a renowned wise man who sails on a ship with a wicked one:

When the ship was in distress the wicked man lifted up his voice in prayer, but the wise man said to him: Keep quiet, my friend; if heaven discovers that you are on board, the ship will go under.
South Korea Offers Radiation Exposure Tests to Hundreds of North Korean Defectors

North Koreas nuclear test site put residents at risk of exposure to radioactive elements, a recent study reveals

A North Korean flag flutters on top of a tower at the propaganda village of Gijungdong in North Korea, in this picture taken near the truce village of Panmunjom on Nov. 12, 2014. (Kim Hong-Ji/Reuters)

More than 800 North Korean defectors who lived near North Koreas Punggye-ri nuclear testing site before escaping to South Korea will be offered radiation exposure tests, according to a South Korean government official.

The announcement comes after a recent study revealed that more than 1 million North Koreans living near Punggye-ri could be exposed to radioactive materials spreading through groundwater.

Ministry of Unifications spokesperson Lee Hyo-jun said the ministry will seek consent from 881 North Korean escapees who meet the criteria for the test. Those who consent will also be given a health checkup.

Nine of 40 North Korean escapees tested in 2017 and 2018 showed signs of radiation exposure, but no causal relationship could be established and none of them needed medical treatment, according to the official.

Lee explained that there was no control group at the time, and the number of samples was limited to generalize the results, Radio Free Asia reported.

There was insufficient information to identify confounding variables such as smoking and heavy metal poisoning, making it difficult to generalize the results. We are pushing ahead with a full-scale investigation to obtain meaningful results, Lee told reporters.

The Seoul-based Transitional Justice Working Group revealed that nearly 900 people from the region around the Punggye-ri nuclear testing site have escaped to South Korea since North Koreas first nuclear test in 2006.

The organization called for the resumption of radiation testing for North Korean escapees, citing the lack of access to North Koreas nuclear facility. According to its research report, more than 1 million North Koreans living in the cities and counties near Punggye-ri use groundwater for daily activities.

North Koreas 2008 census results show that nearly one out of every six households (15.5 percent) in North Hamgyong province, which includes Kilju County, uses groundwater, waterhole, public tap, spring, etc. as drinking water, it reads.

South Korea, China, Japan Affected

The report states that populations in neighboring countries, including South Korea, China, and Japan, are also exposed to radioactive risk because of agricultural and marine products smuggled from North Korea.

If the radioactive materials disseminate through water, it can also affect the agricultural products from the Kilju plain and the marine products from nearby seas, the group stated.

They urged South Korea, Japan, and China to investigate the contamination risks of North Korean agricultural and seafood products, given that the area around the nuclear testing site is a food-producing region with a network of streams that lead to the sea.

While North Korea has repeatedly insisted that there are no radioactive material leaks or negative effects from its nuclear facility, the regime has failed to offer any scientific evidence.

North Koreas Punggye-ri nuclear test facility is shown in this DigitalGlobe satellite image in North Hamgyong Province, North Korea on May 23, 2018. (Satellite image 2018 DigitalGlobe, a Maxar company/Handout via Reuters)

In 2018, North Korea invited foreign journalists to witness the dismantling of some tunnels at the Punggye-ri site but confiscated journalists radiation detectors.

North Korea demolished the Punggye-ri site in May 2018 as a sign of its commitment to end nuclear testing. But South Korean and U.S. intelligence reported seeing construction work at the site in recent years.

Analysts from the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies said in a 2022 report that construction work had occurred at the site, citing satellite images captured on March 4, 2022, by the commercial satellite firm Maxar.

Jeffrey Lewis, co-author of the report, speculated that the images could signal that North Korea intends to restore the test site and begin nuclear explosive testing, although that could take months or years to complete.

He noted that North Korea could also resume nuclear testing at another location.

How long it would take North Korea to resume explosive testing at the site depends on the extent of the damage to the tunnels themselves, something we do not know with confidence, Lewis said in the report.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Peaceful Parenting: What It Is and How to Implement It
Supreme Court Agrees to Hear Second Challenge to Constitutionality of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

The seal of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is seen at their headquarters in Washington, on May 14, 2021. (Andrew Kelly/Reuters)

The Supreme Court agreed on Feb. 27 to hear a second challenge in three years to the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

The appeal gives the courts 63 conservative majority an opportunity to continue its campaign to restrain the so-called administrative state by curtailing the authority of regulators and placing them under more stringent presidential control.

This new appeal challenges the means by which the CFPB is funded; the previous case dealt with the structure of the bureau.

The controversial federal agency, which regulates consumer financial products such as credit cards, mortgages, and car loans, was the brainchild of left-wing U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.). Democrats fiercely defend the CFPB, formed in the wake of the 2008 financial crash, saying it serves a useful function as a check on corporate power.

Republicans accuse the agency of overreach. The CFPB was targeted by the Trump administration, which challenged its constitutionality.

Then-House Financial Services Committee Chairman Jeb Hensarling, a Texas Republican who has since left Congress, called the CFPB arguably the most powerful, least accountable agency in U.S. history, in a 2017 Wall Street Journal op-ed.

CFPB zealots have the power to determine the fairness of virtually every financial transaction in America. The agency defines its own powers and can launch investigations without cause, imposing virtually any fine or remedy, devoid of due process, he wrote.

The Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2020 altering the bureaus structure but upholding its constitutionality.

In Seila Law LLC v. CFPB, the court held 54 that the structure of the CFPB, was unconstitutional, because its director, who must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate, couldnt be fired by the president at will and that the agency was therefore insulated from political accountability. The court held that the agency could continue to exist under new rules that allowed the president to fire the director at will.

The CFPBs unusual funding mechanism was created to keep the agency independent. Although it may seek funding from Congress, the agency is excluded from the normal congressional appropriations process, and, instead, receives most of the money it needs to operate from the Federal Reserve System, which collects fees from member banks.

In the Seila Law ruling, the court noted the existence of the controversial funding system but didnt topple it, as some critics had hoped.

In the new case, CFPB v. Community Financial Services Association of America Ltd., court file 22-448, the Biden administration is appealing a ruling of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit.

The appeals court struck down the funding mechanism, finding that it violates the U.S. Constitutions appropriations clause, which states, No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.

The clause ensures Congresss exclusive power over the federal purse, which is needed to make sure that other branches of government dont exceed their authority, the appeals court stated.

Wherever the line between a constitutionally and unconstitutionally funded agency may be, this unprecedented arrangement crosses it, the 5th Circuit stated.

The appeal came out of a challenge the payday-lending industry brought to a CFPB rule that prevented lenders from trying to withdraw payments from borrowers bank accounts after two consecutive attempts failed for insufficient funds.

The Biden administration urged the Supreme Court to take up the case, arguing that allowing the 5th Circuit ruling to stand could raise grave concerns for the entire financial industry. The ruling has affected more than half of the agencys enforcement cases, providing defendants a justification for dismissal, the government said.

U.S. Department of Justice officials didnt respond by press time to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.

New York filed a brief, which was joined by 20 other states and the District of Columbia, urging the court not to take the appeal.

Adam Chen, a press aide to New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat, told The Epoch Times by email, We decline to comment.

The Community Financial Services Association said the Supreme Courts decision to grant oral arguments reflects the importance of the separation-of-powers issues at stake in this case.

As we have demonstrated, and the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has held, the CFPBs self-funding mechanism lacks any contemporary or historical precedent, improperly shields the agency from congressional oversight and accountability, and unconstitutionally strips Congress of its power of the purse under the Appropriations Clause of the Constitution, the group told The Epoch Times in an email.

Two consumer groups hailed the high courts decision to move forward with the case.

The 5th Circuits erroneous ruling has widespread consequences for consumers and the CFPBs ability to do its critically important job, said Rachel Gittleman, financial services outreach manager for the Consumer Federation of America.

It also creates an unprecedented amount of uncertainty in the marketplace and has the potential to destabilize other parts of the federal government that also rely on an independent funding structure, including Social Security, Medicare, and most federal financial regulators, Gittleman said in a statement provided to The Epoch Times.

The appeals court ruling that the method of funding the CFPB authorized by Congress violates the Appropriations Clause is radical and unprecedented, Lauren Saunders, associate director of the National Consumer Law Center, said.

Other financial regulatorsincluding the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the National Credit Union Administration, and the Federal Housing Finance Agencyalso dont receive their funding through annual appropriations, Saunders told The Epoch Times in a statement.

In addition to the radical and catastrophic impact of striking down Congresss method of funding the CFPB, other implications of the Fifth Circuits ruling potentially requiring invalidation of 11 years worth of CFPB rules and possibly enforcement actions, supervision examinations, and other actions undertaken with that fundingcould cause chaos in the marketplace, Saunders said.

The case isnt likely to be heard by the Supreme Court until the fall of 2023 and decided until the spring of 2024.
Taiwan to Pay Family of Child Who Died After 2 Doses of COVID Vaccine

A medical staff member prepares a COVID-19 vaccine dose at the Far Eastern Memorial Hospital in New Taipei City, Taiwan, on March 22, 2021. (Sam Yeh/AFP via Getty Images)

Taiwans government will grant 3.5 million New Taiwan Dollars (about $114,000) to the family of a child who died of sudden myocarditis after receiving a second dose of the Pfizer-BioNtech COVID-19 vaccine, an official said on Sunday.

Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) spokesperson Lo Yi-chun said the family was among the 10 applicants eligible for compensation from the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, Focus Taiwan reported.

Lo said the girl, who was between the ages of 5 and 11 years, went into a coma three days after getting her second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Authorities did not disclose the childs identity.

The child underwent an ultrasound scan and was diagnosed with fulminant myocarditisa severe form of cardiac inflammation which is typically caused by a viral infectionbefore she died.

Lo said there was no evidence that the vaccine caused the childs death, but the possibility cannot be ruled out given the timing of her death. He said the second vaccination might have increased the childs risk of developing the disease, leading to her death.

Focus Taiwan reported that the risk of children between the ages of 5 and 11 developing myocarditis after receiving the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine is 4.5 to 4.8 cases out of 1 million children, citing the CECC data.

Lo said in addition to the 3.5 million NTD, the government will also pay the family 300,000 NTD (about $9,800) for funeral costs.

Vaccine injury compensation will also be awarded in three cases involving the Moderna vaccine, five cases involving the AstraZeneca vaccine, and one case involving the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine.

Lo said that a 3-year-old child who had received the BCG vaccine as a 5-month-old developed osteomyelitis, a bone infection. He said there were indications that the child developed the condition after receiving the vaccine.

In December, Taiwans government awarded 300,000 NTD (about $9,800) to the family of an elderly man in his 70s who died after receiving the Moderna vaccine, Focus Taiwan reported.

Over 1,600 Children Had Systemic Reactions

More than 1,600 children in the United States between the ages of 5 and 11 experienced a systemic reaction such as fever or diarrhea after receiving one of the new COVID-19 vaccines, according to a study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Of 3,259 children in the age group who received an updated Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and were registered in the v-safe system, nearly half experienced a systemic reaction, CDC researchers found.

Systemic reactions, defined as usually mild and lasting for multiple days, include fatigue, chills, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, joint pain, and diarrhea. On a severity scale, the category of reactions is between local reactions and severe reactions.

According to responses to v-safea smartphone survey system started by the CDC during the COVID-19 pandemic to monitor vaccine safety48.9 percent, or 1,594 children, in the population of children aged 5 to 11 who got a new booster between Oct. 12, 2022, and Jan. 1, 2023, experienced one or more systemic reactions.

The most common was fatigue, followed by headache, fever, myalgia (muscle pain), and chills. The least common was a rash.

Sixty-four of the children sought medical care but none were hospitalized, according to the CDC, which published the study in its quasi-journal on Jan. 13. Most reports of needing medical care indicated that the case was not related to vaccination, according to the CDC.

Researchers also reported the number of reported adverse events among the population to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), another safety monitoring system.

Between Oct. 12 and Nov. 20, 2022, there were 920 reports that were processed by CDC researchers, most of which were for vaccination errors such as an incorrect dosage administered. Some, including 21 for fever, were for systemic events.

The reports do not prove causality with a vaccine but are an undercount of the true number of post-vaccination events, according to studies and U.S. health officials.

Two of the reports, both after Pfizer vaccination, were for serious events, including a child who developed symptoms of a rare illness called Miller Fisher syndrome.

There were no reports of death in either system.

The public-facing VAERS site does not allow a breakdown for ages 5 to 11. Between Nov. 1, 2022, and Jan. 6, 2023, there were 46 events for children aged 3 to 5 years. During the same time, 235 events were reported for children aged 6 to 17, including two hospitalizations, seven emergency room visits, and a permanent disability.

Zachary Stieber contributed to this report.
A granddaughter has honored her grandparents sweet love story after getting engaged at their favorite spot. She and her fiance also paid tribute to the magical moment by recreating an iconic photo of her grandparents from six decades ago.

Paige Ortons grandparents Elva and Steve first met each other at Bryce Canyon in Utah in the summer of 1959.

Elva first laid eyes on Steve while looking out the window of a Utah Parks Company employee bus headed for Bryce Canyon. The girl next to Elva happened to know Steve, and Elva wished out loud that Steve would ask her on a date, according to a Facebook post by Bryce Canyon National Park.

Elva Orton touring the deluxe cabins near the Bryce Lodge. (Courtesy of NPS/Peter Densmore)

Steve invited Elva to meet him for a fireside activity with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints less than a week later and they shared their first kiss. Elva said: We could walk straight out in front of the Lodge to the rim. There was a great place to make out, so we did that quite frequently. What can I say? We were madly in love!

The couple was certain that they wanted to marry each other that summer, however, Steve left on a church mission to Australia. They then made a pact that they would reunite at Bryce Canyon where their love story began.

My future husband and I wrote letters  it was our dream to meet back here at Bryce after two years, Elva told the National Park Service in an interview.

When Steve returned, Elva caught the first bus from her new place of work at the Grand Canyon, where she was saving up for college by working both as program director and at the post office. The bus driver was in on the couples special moment. As soon as they neared the canyon, he began honking the horn, and the whole bus cheered to see Steve waiting for his beloved.

Steve was then hired as a bellhop in the Grand Canyon. Dating as canyon employees was the best, Elva said. Their love intensified, and Steve forged a romantic plan.

At 5:00 in the morning, he came scratching at the door  and he said, Elva, lets go out on the rim, I want to talk to you,' Elva said. We have prayer, and decided we wanted to get married before school started.

Elva and Steves wedding (Courtesy of the Orton family)

The couple tied the knot two weeks later, on Sept. 22, 1962. They then traveled the world, taught in China, and, after Steve joined the military, lived in five different states. In the course of their life the pair welcomed seven children and eventually 17 grandchildren, KSL reported.

After almost 55 years of marriage, Steve passed away in 2017.

In celebration of their 60th wedding anniversary, Elva returned to Bryce Canyon with her extended family in September 2022.

They were moved to find Steves signature from 1957 carved near an employees linen cabin doorway but that wasnt the only nostalgic moment.

The morning after, Paige was visited by her boyfriend, Garrett Arnoldsen, who drove through the night to surprise her at the canyon rim at sunrise.

He proposed.

She said yes, Bryce Canyon National Park shared on Facebook. In homage to her grandparents, they then recreated a photo taken of Elva and Steve at Bryce Point in 1959.

Garrett proposing to Paige (Courtesy of the Orton family)

Growing up, this has been the most romantic place in the world to me because of your story, Paige said to her grandmother.

Surrounded by family, the newly engaged couple recreated a photo of Elva and Steve in their Sunday best, looking out over the canyon. It must have been taken when Elvas parents came to visit, Elva said, since neither she nor Steve had a camera.

In Paige and Garretts loving recreation, the groom-to-be faces the camera with a faraway smile, like Steve, while Paige has her back turned and is looking out over the hoodoos with one foot tucked behind the other, like Elva.

Steve and Elva at Bryce Point in 1959 (Courtesy of the Orton family)

Garrett and Paige at Bryce Point in 2022 (Courtesy of the Orton family)

Elva was touched and honored that her granddaughter, Paige, kept her and Steves love story alive with her own picture-perfect proposal. Elva said: It made me very, very happy that she would want, that they would want, to start their love story in Bryce Canyon.

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
DALLAS, TexasDistance matters less when the goal is worth it. Many audience members are willing to travel long distances to experience Shen Yun Performing Arts.

Were from Montana, so we flew down to see it tonight, said Nathan Garber, who works in real estate.

Shen Yun is based in New York and is dedicated to presenting a true China before communism using classical Chinese dance and music.

I love to see other cultures and understand where people come from. Sometimes, in America today, we can lose sight of who the Chinese people are, because we see what the Chinese government does that we dont appreciate. And so it helps to differentiate that the Chinese people are not the Chinese government as such. And so that was very helpful to me, said Mr. Garber.

China has 5,000 years of history and only in the last century did communism take control. Shen Yun is here to remind the world that China should not be defined by its current government.

What surprised me the most was I had no idea its not just a show to help people understand who the Chinese people are, what it was like before communism, but in fact, that its about making people aware of the needs and whats happening right now today, said Mr. Garber.

Shen Yun draws from the myths and legends of China to create its all-new production each year. Yet the message that the good will be rewarded and the evil will be punished will never change.

And so understanding that, knowing that, watching this, made it more meaningful to me as well. And so I was thinking about how Im going to go encourage other people to watch it, because I think the more people that see it, the greater the impact will then be for a force for good, said Mr. Garber.

One of the dances told the true story of Falun Gong practitioners being persecuted for their steadfast faith. Falun Gong teaches people to follow the principles of truth, compassion, and forbearance.

The scenethey demonstrate the persecution today. That was hard to watch, and just to really understand again, we dont think about it here in America, said commented Mr. Garber.

China has always been a spiritual place. Many of Shen Yuns dances portray the people and their interactions with the divine.

Im very spiritual myself, and so I appreciate the whole spiritual thread throughout the show, for sure. And thank you to everybody who worked hard to put this on, expressed Mr. Garber. I love[d] the angels the most and the dancers with the magenta.

Reporting by Yawen Hung and Maria Han

The Epoch Times is a proud sponsor of Shen Yun Performing Arts. We have covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Think Twice Before Tinkering With Peoples Retirement Savings

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers speaks to media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Feb. 16, 2023. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

Commentary

Honey pots attract bees as well as wasps. So it would seem the $3.3 trillion (US$2.3 trillion) sitting in various super funds for the retirement benefit of Australian workers attracts interested parties.

Such a huge sum of money can be very influential. Those administering such eye-watering amounts have a huge impact on investment for major projects.

For the government, it can provide economic stimulus and social outcomes with other peoples money. And apparently, the treasurer, Jim Chalmers, in his recent statement on superannuation is going down that pot-holed road.

Ultimately, the money of which people speak and pontificate when they talk about super funds is the hard-earned income of Australian workers. In any discussion on the topic, surely the interest of the workers should be paramount.

While nice-sounding definitions and objectives of superannuation legislation are debated, the interest of the workers is too often overlooked.

Given the vast bulk of the funds are there due to the compulsory nature of the scheme, the fiduciary responsibility of the government and fund managers to the workers should be branded on their collective brain.

We have the treasurer wanting a nice motherhood objective clause inserted in the legislation to define the purpose of a super fundwhile the opposition wants different wording.

A shopper holds money to make a purchase of fruit and vegetable produce at Paddys Market in Sydney, Australia on Oct. 22, 2022. (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

Legislating the purpose of a compulsory scheme that takes money off workers may be a worthy and honourable objective. But the difference between the theory and practice may well be akin to the gap in the Grand Canyon.

Labor in 2015 had a proposal to insert wording to the effect of workers having access to the resources of a dignified retirement. One suspects this meant a retirement on the aged pension was not seen as dignified. Hardly a Labor mantra.

On the other hand, the Liberal-National parties sought wording to remind people that compulsory superannuation was designed to take pressure off the public purse. Wording not dissimilar to that which was recommended by a review of the super system.

One Word, Countless Meanings

Suggestions that a well-constructed objectives clause would take the heat and politics out of super and indeed stop the super wars for the future is as naive as it is arrogant.

The current government wants to shoehorn its definition and then declare the objectives clause a no-go zone. Hardly likely given that with every new government comes a change of policy and intention and indeed imperatives.

The fact the Australian trade union movement has gained a stranglehold over the super funds and milk literally millions of dollars of members funds for their pet causes via sponsorships and direct funding, including political parties, the approach taken by the new Labor government is to be expected.

Of course, that does not make it right.

The PR campaign advocating for parliamentary approval of the legislative change to the superannuation legislation is off and running with all the rhetorical flourishes of equity, dignity, and sustainability. Like nice and good, the words can mean everything to everybody and polar opposites at the same time.

To help unpack the deeper meaning of the grandiose wording, the treasurer provided some insights.

A billboard advertises a home for sale in Melbourne, Australia, on Sep. 6, 2022. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)

Apparently, the savings of individual workers in superannuation should apparently not be allowed for purchasing a home.

First, it is the workers money. Second, those who own their home in retirement, thus obviating rental payments, are substantially better off than their rent-paying counterparts.

So, just explain that trio of wordsequity, dignity, and sustainabilityagain in practical terms.

Similarly, the legislation would not have allowed access to their super funds by certain people during COVID to help stimulate the economy.

Punishing Those Who Work Hard and Save

Using savings to help you through tough times is surely preferable to increased borrowing. This is another concerning insight into the treasurers thinking.

The none-too-subtle hinting that superannuation accounts with over $5 million may be categorised as excessive reflects the deep-rooted envy and jealousy toward those who have worked hard and saved.

The virtue of saving has not been promoted sufficiently in recent decades and this latest expression suggests that in the eyes of the government, there is such a thing as saving too much.

In the current climate, it is difficult to rationalise such thinking unless it is founded on an ideology that promotes envy, and sees equity as cutting everyone down to the same common denominator.

Clearly providing rewards for those who make an effort to save larger amounts is not on the agenda.

Shoppers move through the QVB shopping area in Sydney, Australia, on Nov. 8, 2021. (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

A Way to Promote the Governments Progressive Agenda?

The most concerning aspect of the treasurers speech about revamping the 10.5 percent portion of a workers wages for super is his view he can simply direct the funds into social policy initiatives of the government of the dayChalmers new values-based capitalism.

For the current government that means social housing, the care economy, and the transition to clean energy.

If these were such lucrative investment opportunities providing windfall returns for Australias workers one suspects the superannuation funds would be pushing each other out of the way to invest.

The fact that government direction is needed proves that fund managers arent doing their job, or that these suggested new investments just dont provide good returns.

The duty of fund managers is to provide the best return for workers compulsory contributions, not to help subsidise a governments social platform. Dressing this up as delivering a double dividend is the sort of language which even George Orwell couldnt conjure up.

In this whirlwind of policy mayhem, one voice is missingthe voice of the workers whose money is at stake as well as their future well-being.

While the policy pontifications may smell sweet as honey, a drop in returns for workers who watch their money being directed by the government in pursuit of its agenda may see Australias nearly 14 million workers deliver a stinging rebuke at the next election.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Tories Pressing for Trudeaus Top Adviser to Testify on Beijing Interference

Conservative MP Michael Cooper rises during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on June 10, 2022. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press)

The Conservative Party says it will make another attempt to have the prime ministers chief of staff testify on Beijing foreign interference before a House of Commons committee, after the NDP helped the Liberals defeat two recent attempts.

It would be beyond outrageous if the Prime Minister of our country was made aware that one of his Liberal candidates was compromised by the Chinese Communist Party and outright refused to do the right thing, said Conservative MP Michael Cooper in a Feb. 26 statement.

It is crucial for confidence in our democracy that we know what Justin Trudeau and his government knew and when.

Cooper has attempted twice in recent weeks to have Trudeaus Chief of Staff Katie Telford testify before the Procedure and House Affairs Committee. But Liberal MPs on the committee, with support from the NDP, amended Coopers motions to remove Telfords required appearance.

Cooper said the NDP must cease aiding and abetting the obstruction by the Liberals in the Conservatives bid for more transparency.

The NDP has an agreement to keep the minority Liberals in power in exchange for spending on NDP priorities.

On Feb. 27, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh joined the call for a public inquiry into interference in Canadian elections by the Chinese Community Party (CCP), but this doesnt automatically equate to dropping support at committee.

Singhs decision and Coopers push come after the latest revelations in the Beijing interference saga were published by Global News on Feb. 24.

The outlet says that according to security sources, Liberal MP Han Dong is a witting affiliate in Chinas election interference network and that the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) had been warned about the issue.

Global added that Dong also allegedly won the Liberal nomination in the Don Valley North riding with the support of Chinese international students with fake addresses who were bussed into the riding and coerced to vote for the Liberal candidate in 2019.

The Epoch Times reached out to Dongs office, the PMO, and the Liberal Party but didnt immediately hear back.

As a Member of Parliament, safeguarding Canadas democratic institutions is a fundamental part of my job, and I take all serious allegations of foreign interference very seriously, Dong told Global News. I am unaware of the claims provided to you by alleged sources, which contains seriously inaccurate information.

Currently there are no scheduled upcoming meetings for the Standing Committee on Procedure on House Affairs, and the Commons is on break from Feb. 20 to March 6.

A special meeting of the committee had been requested by opposition MPs on Feb. 21, where Cooper tabled a motion to expand the committees study into foreign interference by China.

This was prompted by other revelations made by the Globe and Mail based on information from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service.

The Globe reported that the CCPs strategy for Canada was to have a minority Liberal government and to defeat Conservative candidates critical of Beijing. One Chinese diplomat reportedly boasted about helping to defeat two such candidates.

Coopers motion was adopted, but not before Liberal MP Greg Fergus passed an amendment with NDP support to remove Telford from the list of witnesses.

A similar scenario took place at a previous committee meeting on Feb. 9, this time with Liberal MP Ryan Turnbull passing the amendment.

At that time Cooper wanted Telford to testify due to Global News reporting on Feb. 8 that she had requested a briefing in 2017 on CCP interference from then National Security and Intelligence Advisor Daniel Jean.

The memo obtained by Global reportedly says CCP agents were assisting Canadian candidates running for political offices.

Commenting on the recent leaks, Trudeau said on Feb. 23 they contain inaccuracies.

I will highlight, for example, around inaccuracies, that when the National Security and Intelligence Advisor appeared at committee a number of weeks or months ago, she highlighted the inaccuracies that were contained in some of these media leaks, Trudeau said on Feb. 24 when asked to elaborate on the inaccuracies.

The prime minister was referring to his adviser Jody Thomass testimony before the Commons defence committee on Dec. 8, which took place before many of the recent revelations came to light.

We have not seen money going to 11 candidates, she said in reference to allegations Beijing had supported candidates as reported by Global News.

I have not been briefed and have no awareness, and Ive asked the question of 11 candidates and the connection to the money that was in that report. I know nothing of that. I have seen no evidence of it.
Trudeau Skirts Questions as to Whether He Was Warned About MPs Alleged Beijing Ties

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks to the media in Ottawa before boarding a flight to the Yukon on Feb. 12, 2023. (The Canadian Press/ Patrick Doyle)

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Feb. 27 addressed questions about whether he could confirm if he was warned about a Liberal Party MP being linked to a Beijing foreign interference network by making points about racism.

Trudeau said during a press conference in Mississauga, Ont., that Chinese-Canadians should always be welcomed as full Canadians, and encouraged to stand for office to get involved in their communities, and to take on part of the leadership of this country.

The prime minister was asked twice about whether he was warned about Liberal MP Han Dong and if he had allowed him to run.

On both counts, Trudeau didnt directly address the allegations and instead led his answers by discussing ethnicity.

One of the things weve seen, unfortunately over the past years, is a rise in anti-Asian racism linked to the pandemic, and concerns being raised or arising around peoples loyalties, he said in his second answer.

Trudeau also said that his government always engages with and listens to national security intelligence agencies, but that they dont have a say in politics.

In a free democracy, it is not up to unelected security officials to dictate to political parties who can or cannot run, he said.

The role of the lead agency investigating foreign interference, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), is to collect information on threats and advise the government.

It has no ability to make arrests and is mostly powerless if the government doesnt heed its recommendations.

Trudeaus comment was in reference to a Feb. 24 Global News report that said CSIS had urged Trudeaus team to rescind Dongs candidacy for party nomination in 2019.

Citing anonymous security sources, the report said that Dong was a witting affiliate in Chinas election interference networks.

Dong won the Liberal nomination in the Don Valley North riding in 2019 and took the seat in 2019 and 2021.

The MP issued a statement on Feb. 27 saying he has the utmost regard for the integrity of our democratic institutions and electoral processes.

I strongly reject the insinuations in media reporting that allege I have a played a role in offshore interference in these processes and will defend myself vigorously against such inaccurate and irresponsible claims that come from an unverified and anonymous source, Dong wrote.

Trudeau said his party is extraordinarily lucky and happy to have a Member of Parliament like Han Dong.

Suggestions that he is somehow not loyal to Canada should not be entertained.

Allegations of Chinese regime interference in Canadian elections have been flowing steadily since last November, when Global broke the first big story on the issue.

The outlet reported that Beijing had funded 11 candidates in the 2019 federal election.

Since then, the Globe and Mail also broke several stories citing intelligence from CSIS which documents Beijings strategy to sway votes in Canada.

Calls are now growing for the establishment of a public inquiry to look into the matter.

The NDP, which has a deal to keep the minority Liberals in power, has twice helped them in committee to prevent Trudeaus chief of staff from appearing to testify on foreign interference.

But NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has now called for a fully independent and non-partisan inquiry.

Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre has yet to comment on the matter, but some MPs in his caucus have done so, including former leader Erin OToole and MP Ryan Williams.

Outside politics, former CSIS director Richard Fadden has called for an inquiry, along with former chief electoral commissioner Jean-Pierre Kingsley.

Trudeau rejected the idea again on Feb. 27, saying that mechanisms currently in place such as a Commons committee are sufficient.

He said his National Security Intelligence Advisor Jody Thomas will be testifying at committee this week.
Hispasat, a satellite operator and division of utility company Redeia, is presenting what it calls one of the great innovations of MWC 2023 at this years show: satellite connectivity at 100Mbs.

At the Hispasat stand the company is demonstrating a real-life 100 Mbps satellite internet connection that is now available across Spain. This technology, says Hispasat, ensures universal connectivity, with the aim of bridging the digital divide in rural, remote and sparsely populated areas throughout the territory.

Hispasat is also presenting its achievements in the Green Engine project, the largest forestation and emissions compensation initiative in Spain, in which it collaborates as a technological partner with Fundacion Repsol and Sylvestris.

Satellite connectivity enables innovative and robust solutions to be deployed in forest environments, offering analysis including tree growth monitoring, fire prevention and early detection, video camera surveillance. All this collected data is being analysed and integrated with Earth observation images in a data platform developed by Elewit, Redeia's technology platform.

Also on display are the latest projects that Hispasat is carrying out in the integration of 5G networks and in the extension of cellular networks via satellite, a business in which Hispasat already connects more than 3,000 base stations in Latin America.

In collaboration with Mobile World Capital Barcelona, the company is putting on what it calls the first debate on space within the framework of Mobile World Congress. Its called Space, an immediate tool for connectivity and security and takes place on Wednesday.
Trump Attorney: Trump Investigation in Georgia Compromised

Former U.S. President Donald Trump (L) speaks at the New Hampshire Republican State Committee's Annual Meeting in Salem, N.H, on Jan. 28, 2023. Emily Kohrs (R), foreperson of the Fulton County Special Purpose Grand Jury, speaks to MSNBC about the proceeding in an interview on Feb. 21, 2023. (Scott Eisen/Getty Images; screenshot taken on from a video published in an MSNBC article)

Attorneys representing former President Donald Trump in a special purpose investigation in Fulton County, Georgia, say the investigation process has been compromised due to public remarks made by a member of the grand jury.

Weve lost 100 percent confidence in this process. We feel this process has been compromised, Trump attorney Drew Findling said in an interview with CBS Newss Face the Nation on Feb. 26, when CBS host Robert Costa asked how Findling viewed the position of Fulton County District Attorney, Fani Willis.

We absolutely do not believe that our client did anything wrong, and if any indictments are to come down, those are faulty indictments, Jennifer Little, another defense attorney for Trump, told Costa.

Findling was referring to a special purpose grand jury investigation initiated by Willis, who says she intends to investigate Trump and his allies for what she describes as their attempts to influence the administration of the 2020 Georgia General Election.

While the jury panel does not have indictment powers, it can recommend indictments to the DA based on its findingsand the DA can then decide whether to pursue those indictments.

However, the DAs ability to move further on the case may be in peril after the foreperson of the grand jury, Emily Kohrs, gave high-profile interviews to The New York Times, CNN, and NBC about the case, Trumps lawyers say.

This 30-year-old person, to us, has actually provided us a lens and made us aware that every suspicion we had as to this questionable process was in fact a reality, Findling said.

Kohrs Media Appearances

According to Trumps attorneys, the issue with Kohrs high-profile appearances in the media centers on the principle of maintaining distance between prosecuting attorneys and members of a jury.

It looks like they lost perspective over keeping separation between prosecuting attorneys and the members of this grand jury, Findling told CBS News in the Feb. 26 interview. There cannot be a relationship. When the foreperson uses the word we that lets you know theres a relationship there. When she says in interviews certain battles were not worth us battling, its not the special purpose grand jury thats litigating, its the district attorneys office.

Kohrs told the New York Times that the jury panel recommended indictments on people who were subpoenaed, and provided the publication with some details of the proceeding.

It is not a short list, Kohrs told the New York Times, referring to the currently sealed list of indictment recommendations. She did not reveal specific names of people for whom the panel recommended indictments, but they could be anyone who was subpoenaed as part of the investigation, such as former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani, former Trump White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, and Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), among others.

Further to the New York Times interview, Kohrs told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in another interview on Feb. 21 that she also spoke to her boyfriend regarding her experience in the panels proceedings.

I told my boyfriend at one point during proceeding, during all this, I came home and I told him, she said, Do you know that if I was in a room with Donald Trump and Joseph Biden and they knew who I was, they would both want to speak to me.

In a separate interview with MSNBC, Kohrs said, I wanted to subpoena the former president because I got to swear everybody in, and so I thought it would be really cool to get 60 seconds with President Trump of me looking at him and being like, Do you solemnly swear, and me getting to swear him in. I kind of just thought that would be an awesome moment.

Trumps attorney said Kohrs appearances raise the question of whether DA Willis can proceed with charging Trump if she intends to do so.

Are the results of that special purpose grand jury to be crumbled up like a piece of paper and thrown into a waste paper basket? Findling continued when asked about their next steps.

Our options are, can this district attorneys office continue to be part of this case? We have to legally research all of those issues.

Trumps Response

Former President Donald Trump has rejected all of the accusations against him in Georgia, and criticized Kohrs media tour as prosecutorial misconduct.

There is no case against me in Georgia because I did NOTHING WRONG, but in any event, and everyone agrees, the out of control Foreperson who did an illegal and unprecedented Media Tour DURING the process, makes the case dead for a second reason, Trump wrote on Truth Social, his social media platform, on Feb. 25.

TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME coupled with Prosecutorial Misconduct! he wrote.

In an earlier post, the former president commented that the grand jury investigation was a strictly political continuation of the greatest Witch Hunt of all time.

Now you have an extremely energetic young woman, the (get this!) foreperson of the Racist D.A.s Special Grand Jury, going around and doing a Media Tour revealing, incredibly, the Grand Jurys inner workings & thoughts. This is not JUSTICE, this is an illegal Kangaroo Court, Trump wrote. All I did is make TWO PERFECT PHONE CALLS!!!

A major focus of the investigation is a call between Trump and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger in January 2021, when Trump told Raffensperger to investigate potential voter fraud in Georgia.

Critics of Trump have alleged that the call constituted an act of election interference. Trump has denied all allegations of wrongdoing on his part.

The grand jury was discharged in January. In early February, the Fulton County Superior Court released a portion of the jury panels final report, which did not include the list of names to whom indictments were recommended.
UK Labour Leader Says Migration Is Not The Answer to All Our Problems

Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer delivers a speech at the office of UK Finance in central London, on Feb. 27, 2023. (Stefan Rousseau/PA Media)

Britain should focus on fixing its skills problem rather than continuing to rely on migrant workers from overseas, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has said.

Talking to business leaders in the City of London on Monday, he said migration is not the answer to all of our problems.

Starmer acknowledged there is short-term demand for migrant labour amid workforce shortages, but stressed the need to fix the skills problem among the countrys existing population.

In a paper published before his speech, the Labour Party said that a future Labour government will create stronger links between our evidence-led, points-based immigration system and our skills bodies to make sure we have the skilled workforce we need.

Skills Problem

The UK economy continues to suffer from labour shortages following Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, despite recent data showing a record number of previously economically inactive people entering or returning to the job market.

Jane Gratton, head of people policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said earlier this month: Businesses are crying out for people to fill job vacancies at all skill levels, and this must be the number one focus for government if its serious about economic growth.

There are still a huge number of vacancies, currently sitting at 1.134 million, and this is stopping firms in their tracks. It means they are struggling to meet the orders on their books, and it puts any plans for growth far out of reach.

She urged the government to reform the Shortage Occupation List to help firms fill urgent job vacancies from outside the UK when they cannot recruit locally.

Asked on Monday about businesses pleas to allow more migrant workers to come to the UK to fill labour shortages, Starmer said: We recognise the short-term problem and we are not going to be anti-business or anti-growth or anti-farming about this and allow short-term problems to create long-term problems.

But we do have to get ourselves off the idea that migration is the answer to all of our problems.

Weve had a skills problem in this country for decades. We want to fix the fundamentals. Im still struck by how many children leave school without the skills they are actually going to need for the jobs they are likely to be doing, the lives they are likely to be leading.

Under a future Labour government, Starmer indicated, a visa scheme for industries hit by labour shortfalls would be more likely than granting young people from the European Union access to the country.

Falling Behind

Addressing business leaders on Monday, Starmer set out his plans for growing the economy, warning that without new policies the UK risks falling behind eastern European nations.

Labour said the Conservative government has put the country on a path of decline and Britons are at risk of becoming worse off than Polands population by 2030.

Labour said its calculations of Britains wealth decline were based on assuming UK gross domestic product (GDP)a measure of the economys healthper capita continues to grow at a similar rate of 0.5 percent in real terms as it did between 2010 and 2021.

That compares with 3.6 percent for Poland, 3 percent for Hungary, and 3.8 percent for Romania in the same timeframe.

Should that trajectory be sustained, then it would mean the average Briton would be poorer than their Polish counterpart by 2030 and less well-off than those residing in Romania and Hungary by 2040.

Last week, the Labour leader unveiled five missions his party will focus on if it wins the next general election.

As well as commitments on energy, the National Health Service (NHS), crime, and childcare, he pledged to secure the highest sustained growth in the G7, along with providing good jobs and productivity growth in every part of the country.

Centre Ground

Since replacing the hard-left Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader in 2020, Starmer has worked to move the party towards the political centre ground.

Earlier this month, Starmer announced that Corbyn will not be allowed to stand as a Labour candidate at the next election.

In a speech on Feb. 15, the Labour leader said that Labour is now unrecognisable from its form during Corbyns leadership in 2015 to 2020 when it was plagued by allegations of antisemitism.

The Labour leader reiterated his vow that anyone who plays down antisemitism will be treated with zero patience or tolerance and acknowledged it is not the end of the road for tackling the issue.

He said Labour will never again be a party captured by narrow interest and will never again be brought to its knees by racism or bigotry.

He invited those on the far left of Labour to leave the party if they oppose his reforms, and confirmed Corbyn himself will be stripped of his candidacy for Labour.

The announcement angered Corbyn and his allies, who accused Starmer of violating Labours values.

PA Media contributed to this report.
Unbelievable: Youngkin Takes Aim at Bidens Choice Not to Visit Ohio Derailment Site

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin expressed disbelief Sunday at President Joe Bidens decision not to visit East Palestine, Ohio, where a Norfolk Southern train derailed on Feb. 3, leaking toxic chemicals into the ground, water, and air.

In a Feb. 26 appearance on Fox News Sunday Morning Futures, Youngkin noted that, while the president visited Ukraine last week and plans to visit Virginia on Feb. 28 to discuss health care, he has yet to visit the beleaguered community of East Palestine.

He wants to talk about health care? the Republican governor asked. Why doesnt he go someplace where people actually have real health concerns that are driving them to worry about not just the day-to-day impacts of this horrific train crash, but the long-term impacts with cancer threats, etc.

This is a moment for leaders to lead, and Joe Biden needs to lead here, he added. And I just think its really, really unbelievable that he has yet to go to Ohio and support these people that need the help.

In the wake of the derailment and subsequent controlled burn of the toxic chemicals the train was carrying, East Palestine residents have raised concerns about the quality of the air and drinking water in the area, reporting adverse health reactions such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, rashes, burning sensations, and difficulty breathing.

And despite federal and state authorities assurances that the air and public water are safe, researchers at Texas A&M University and Carnegie Mellon University reported on Feb. 24 that concentrations for nine out of the roughly 50 chemicals the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been monitoring for are above normal in East Palestine.

If these levels continue, they may be of health concern, researchers said, singling out acrolein.

Acrolein, a highly reactive and volatile compound used in the production of many commercial products, has been recognized as a chemical weapon since its use in World War I.

Nonetheless, when asked by reporters at the White House on Feb. 24 whether he had plans to visit East Palestine, Biden replied, This time, Im not.

Instead, over the weekend, the president directed staff at the EPA, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to go door-to-door throughout the Ohio village conducting outreach and health surveys.

We [federal agencies] were there two hours after the train went down, Biden told reporters. Ive spoken with every single major figure in both Pennsylvania and Ohio. So, the idea that were not engaged is simply not there.

Adding that he was keeping very close tabs on the situation, Biden said, Were doing all we can.
US Nuclear Submarine Docks in South Korea Amid Threats From North

The South Korean and American flags fly next to each other at Yongin, South Korea, on Aug. 23, 2016. (Courtesy of Ken Scar/U.S. Army/Handout via Reuters)

A U.S. nuclear-powered submarine docked in the South Korean port city of Busan on Saturday after North Korea conducted a strategic cruise missile drill last week.

The U.S. Navy Korea announced in a Facebook post on Feb. 25 that the USS Springfield arrived in Busan for a scheduled port visit but did not elaborate on the duration of its stay.

The USS Springfield is one of five Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines based in Guam. The vessel and its crew routinely conduct maritime security operations in support of national security interests.

The submarines deployment to South Korea comes after North Korea test-fired four cruise missiles on Feb. 23, with the regime saying it was protesting the U.S.-South Korea tabletop exercise in Washington last week.

Shin Jong-woo, a senior researcher at the Korea Defense and Security Forum, said that Springfields arrival in Busan demonstrates the United States deterrence commitment to its ally South Korea against the North Korean regimes threats.

A nuclear-powered submarine is a weapon system that can covertly approach and subdue any North Korean submarine, so I think it can be another level of warning to North Korea, Shin told The Korea Times.

The United States had pledged to maintain close cooperation with South Korea and continue a range of efforts to enhance extended deterrence efforts in response to North Koreas ongoing missile tests and nuclear arms development in violation of multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions.

The two allies issued a joint press release after their tabletop exercise on Feb. 22, affirming U.S. commitment to working with South Korea using an effective mix of capabilities, concepts, deployments, exercises, and tailored options to deter North Koreas aggression.

The United States will continue to field flexible nuclear forces suited to deterring regional nuclear conflict, including the capability to forward deploy strategic bombers, dual-capable fighter aircraft, and nuclear weapons to the region, the statement reads.

According to the Pentagon, the United States had stated in its 2022 Nuclear Posture Review that any nuclear attack by North Korea against it and its allies is unacceptable and will result in the end of that regime.

North Koreas Retaliatory Move

North Korea also launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Feb. 18 in what it called a surprise launching drill, which landed outside Japans exclusive economic zone.

Japan said the ICBM had the capacity to strike the United States with a missile range of 8,700 miles.

The U.S. then staged joint air drills with South Korea and Japan on Feb. 19, to which North Korea responded by firing two tactical nuclear missiles into the sea.

North Koreas official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) shows the launching of the Hwasong-15 missile on Nov. 29, 2017. (KCNA VIA KNS/AFP/Getty Images)

North Korea condemns U.S.-South Korea joint drills as rehearsals for an invasion for regime change and vowed to retaliate against any military action under its principle of nuke for nuke and an all-out confrontation for an all-out confrontation.

It warned that the expansion of U.S.South Korea joint drills and the U.S. promise to deploy more military assets to defend South Korea has thrown the Korean Peninsula into the grave vortex of increasing tension.

If it is the U.S. option to show its muscle and counter everything with muscle, the same is true of the DPRKs option, the Norths Foreign Ministry spokesperson said, state media Korean Central News Agency reported on Feb. 16.

China, Russia Block Condemnation

The United States earlier called on the U.N. Security Council to condemn North Koreas missile provocations and hold it to account for the destabilizing actions. But the effort was met with a veto by China and Russiawho are also members of the council.

U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the Security Councils failures to respond enabled North Korea to conduct its destabilizing missile launches without fear of consequences.

The reality is that those who shield the DPRK from the consequences of its escalatory missile tests put the Asian region, and entire world, at risk of conflict, Thomas-Greenfield said at a council briefing in New York.

State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Feb. 22 that North Koreas nuclear development program will not benefit the Chinese Communist regime because it poses a threat to regional security, taking a different view to former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The DPRKs ballistic missile program, its nuclear program, it is not only a threat to the United States and our people; its not only a threat to our treaty alliesJapan and the ROK in this casebut it is a threat to peace and security across the region, and that is not something that the PRC likes to see, he said, referring to Chinas official name, the Peoples Republic of China.

North Korea launched more than 70 missiles last year, including potentially nuclear-capable weapons of various ranges, capable of targeting South Korea and the continental United States.

The United States has been urging for a return to a diplomatic approach to resolve the tensions, a call North Korea has ignored due to what it says are the United States and its allies hostile policies toward North Koreas totalitarian regime.
Vaccines Dont Stop Transmission: NSW Premier Pushing Public Service to Scrap Mandates

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet addresses the media in relation to poker machines in Sydney, Australia, on Feb. 6, 2023. (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi)

Widespread vaccine mandates in Australias most populous state New South Wales (NSW), should be scrapped, according to (NSW) Premier Dominic Perrottet.

The premier said he issued the directive to the states public service but conceded certain areas were keeping mandates going.

Ive made it abundantly clear what my position is on this, and its based on evidence. Theres no evidence that vaccines in the current environment have any impact at all on transmission of COVID, he told Radio 2GB on Feb. 27.

I couldnt have been clearer to the public service here in New South Wales to end vaccine mandates, and the majority across the public service have done so. Ive also made it very clear to the private sector and work closely with them to end vaccine mandates, he added.

The premier explained that he directed the public service to only issue vaccine mandates in specific circumstances, otherwise, they were to be removed.

There are certain areas in the public service where I do not have that power, he added.

Mandates Still Barring Health Workers from Their Jobs

Perrottet was answering a question from John Larter, a paramedic who lost his position because he refused to get vaccinated.

Larter and his wife, and an emergency nurse, are still fighting to be reinstated with an action progressing through the states Industrial Relations Commission.

Perrottet was treasurer of the state during the pandemic years and was a vocal critic of lockdowns and mandates.

Upon his accession to the premiership, he accelerated the timeline of winding down lockdowns, with New South Wales becoming the first jurisdiction in Australia to drop restrictions altogetherdespite criticism from media outlets and sectors of the medical community.

Perrottet now faces a tough election fight on his hands, with the Labor Party polling ahead of the Liberal-National Coalition government as of Feb. 27.

Popularity of the Jab Quickly Waning in Australia

Meanwhile, the appetite for vaccinations has waned in Australia, despite the country having one of the highest jab rates in the world for much of the pandemic.

The Department of Health reports that 19,830,999 Australians have received two jabs, and 14,355,499 of those have received a third dose.

But the Department only reports 5,480,619 individuals having received the fourth dose of a COVID-19 vaccine as of Feb. 27.

Medical opinion on the impending fifth dose is mixed, with some experts saying it is a must, while others are more sceptical.

Australians have very little idea of the scale of the problem at the moment, including the risk to themselves, said Brendan Crabb, director of the Burnet Institute.

I have absolutely no doubt that Australians dont know that COVID is putting 50 times more people in hospital than the flu, that its killing 50 to 100 times more people than the flu, that five percent of them if they get infected, even if theyre vaccinated, are likely to get long COVID, he told The Sydney Morning Herald.

This is in contrast to former Deputy Chief Medical Officer Nick Coatsworthan infectious disease and respiratory specialistwho said booster shots were only a temporary solution.

Lets understand the science, if you get a fifth dose, your protection is enhanced for around about 8-12 weeks, and then it returns after the fourth dose or the third dose, he told Nines Today show.

It is a very transient protection, it is not protection for life, he added. That is the problem with these boosters, and eventually, we will have to stop with these recommendations for ongoing boosters.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation recommends the fifth booster for 18 to 64-year-olds with medical comorbidities that may increase the risk of COVID-19.

Other adults aged 18 to 64 may consider a booster dose in early 2023, based on an individual riskbenefit assessment with their immunisation provider, the body states.
Virginia Moves to Ban China From Buying Farmland

Virginia will ban foreign adversaries, including China, from buying agricultural land in the commonwealth after legislators in the House of Delegates and Senate recently approved versions of the proposal and sent the measure to Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin for his expected signature. The ban would be retroactively effective from Jan. 1.

Prohibiting China from buying farmland in Virginia tops Youngkins legislative agenda this year.

Virginiansnot the CCP [Chinese Communist Party]should own the rich and vibrant agricultural lands God has blessed us with. That is why I am asking the General Assembly to send me a bill to prohibit dangerous foreign entities tied to the CCP from purchasing Virginia farmland, he said in his State of the Commonwealth address at the beginning of the 2023 legislative session. The stakes are too high, and the consequences are too great.

The law will also require Virginias Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to publish an annual report of foreign land ownership to the governor and General Assembly. The inaugural report is due on the VDACS website by July 1. The law, once enacted, wont affect any transactions that were completed before this year.

Virginias definition of foreign adversaries follows the Department of Commerces designation. Along with China, the current list also includes Cuba, Russia, North Korea, and a Venezuelan politician.

Chinese entities owned about 14,000 acres of agricultural land in Virginia as of the end of 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Most of that is tied to the 2013 purchase of Smithfield Foods Inc., the largest pork producer in the United States.

However, foreign land ownership reporting to the USDA has been largely an honor system; the reporting requirements arent always enforced. While the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act stipulates that the penalty for failing to report foreign land ownership can be as much as a quarter of the propertys market value, in reality, the USDA often reduces the penalty amount significantly because of concern over disincentivizing filing.

For example, the resulting fine for a Chinese companys failure to report a land purchase associated with the Blue Hills Wind Farm project in Texas was slashed to $120,000 from $21 million.

As of February, 28 states dont have any restrictions on foreign ownership of agricultural land, according to the University of Arkansass National Agricultural Law Center. While Virginia will soon prohibit Chinese entities from owning any interest in its agricultural land, measures in Texas and Florida seek to restrict any Chinese real estate purchase, including farmland.

An aerial view of a farm in Florida City, Fla., on Apr. 1, 2020. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Protecting Military Assets

Instead of the acreage, Youngkin emphasized the military assets in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

In Virginia, were standing up strong, he told Fox News on Feb. 26. Were going to make sure that our agricultural farmland is not purchased by the CCP.

Weve got a bill now through on a bipartisan basis that I will sign that will keep China from buying our agricultural farmland, particularly next to our national strategic assets like the Pentagon, Quantico, and the largest naval base in the world.

Were going to make sure that we keep these national strategic assets safe.

Youngkin spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said the measure will be signed into law in the coming weeks.

The governor has been clear since day one that Virginians, their tax dollars, and their farmland should not enrich the CCP or dangerous foreign entities at the expense of national security, she told The Epoch Times in an emailed statement.

Earlier this year, a corn mill proposal by a Chinese-based company in Grand Forks, North Dakota, was terminated after the U.S. Air Force warned that the project, which was to be on land within 15 miles of the Grand Forks Air Force Base, posed a significant threat to national security.

After the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, a federal panel charged with reviewing foreign acquisitions for national security risks, decided in December 2022 that it didnt have jurisdiction to probe the land purchase, the controversial project came to a screeching halt following the Air Forces input.
What We Do Now Has Consequences: Writer Shares Her Understanding of How Humankind Came To Be

When writer Nicky Viard read How Humankind Came To Be, an article by Falun Gong founder Mr. Li Hongzhi that was published by NTD last month, she felt the piece encourages people to look inward and evaluate themselves.

I think that if articles like this got around more, then people would consider the consequences of their beliefs, how they treat others, and that the consequences of their beliefs form the way they treat others, Viard told NTD.

Viard agreed that there are karmic consequences for peoples actions, either in a positive or negative way, saying the realm of Earth is a difficult realm with many trials and tribulations that occur while people lead their lives.

Theres a lot of trials and tribulations that we go through here on planet Earth. But, as he said, if we can get through it and still smile, and at the end of the day, we take things with a grain of salt and still have good intentions toward our neighborsyou know, this will affect those around us, how we treat them, she said.

Generally, Viard believes most people carry goodness in their hearts and are compassionate toward loved ones, their children, and pets. But she also said that she agrees with Mr. Li that theres evil in todays society.

I was reading the article, and Im kind of nodding my head the whole time Im reading it, Viard said, adding that Mr. Li recognizes the good in todays world, but the article also mentioned evilthat there are consequences for those who do bad things.

I dont believe you escape: there has to be a certain price to pay when you cause tremendous injury toward someone elses life, she said.

I think karma is a very good thing, Viard added. I think that if we do follow karma and the basic beliefs, I think it will cause us to only behave better towards our fellow man, not let ourselves and our own standards down. Because there are consequences, there are consequences for evil behavior, as well as rewards for good behavior.

Falun Gong is a form of meditative exercise that originated in China. The disciplinewhich is based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and toleranceis rooted in ancient Chinese traditions that believe in moral improvement and which will eventually lead to spiritual enlightenment.

In the early 1990s, Mr. Li personally taught the spiritual practice at venues throughout China. Prior to the Chinese communist regime launching its persecution of Falun Gong on July 20, 1999, the number of followers reached an estimated 100 million, with the regime praising the practice for its healing and fitness benefits.

The Universe Does Take Everything Into Account

Viard agrees with Mr. Lis discussion on reincarnation, explaining that she also believes the soul just moves on and that people really dont die, we live on.

We do have a life path for our soul here and in future incarnations, Viard said. And what we do now has consequences, if its bad, if its hurtful, she added.

But the universe does also take into account the good that we do towards others, Viard continued. I do believe that God sees everything, that even if you have pain, there are things that happen to you. I believe that God sees everything: God sees the good that you do, the bad that you do, as well as the bad that other people may have done to you. I think the universe does take everything into account as [Mr. Li] says.

From NTD News
The U.S. maritime industry is too small to contribute enough to American military and economic security due to its shrinking size, while communist Chinas maritime industry has been growing. America faces challenges.

Rear Admiral Mark Buzby (U.S. Navy, ret.), former commander of the Navys Military Sealift Command and head of the Maritime Administration in the U.S. Department of Transportation, will talk about the current state of the U.S. maritime industry, its potential role in a Western Pacific conflict, and the short- and long-term options to restore an American industry that promotes American security.

Michael Roberts, a senior fellow of Hudson Institutes Center for Defense Concepts and Technology and the Navy Leagues Center for Maritime Strategy, will host the event.
Xi Jinping Declares Victory Over Pandemic Ahead of the Two Sessions, Secured Military Obedience First

Party leader Xi Jinping applauds during the opening of the 3rd Session of the 12th National People's Congress in Beijing, China, on March 5, 2015. (Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)

News Analysis

After Chinas military authorities ordered the armed forces to follow the command of Military Commission Chairman Xi Jinping in all operations, Xi declared victory in the fight against the epidemic at a meeting of the seven-member Politburo Standing Committee. In contrast, the last time Xi announced a victory against COVID in 2020, it was at a huge celebration party.

Meetings of the Politburo Standing Committee are usually held once a week to deal with the daily work of the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) Central Committee and make decisions on major issues. It is rare for Chinese leaders to make major announcements like the victory in the fight against the epidemic at such small-scale meetings, which would be more appropriately announced at a Politburo meeting attended by at least 24 Politburo members.

The CCPs constitution states that Politburo meetings should have thorough discussions before making decisions on issues. Xis approach seems to have circumvented the discussions required by the constitution. In fact, he hasnt convened a Politburo meeting since the beginning of 2023, while during the same period last year, he convened two such meetings in January and February.

Xi in a Precarious Situation

Why didnt Xi hold a grand ceremony to announce victory in the fight against the epidemic, which would be a more appropriate setting?

Ms. Guo Jun, editor-in-chief of the Chinese-language Epoch Times, said at the Feb. 16 Elite Forum program that Xi handled the announcement as he did to make a definitive conclusion of total victory for his epidemic control work before the Two Sessions, and thus deny his political opponents the opportunity to attack him.

Xi Jinping used to claim that Chinas overall epidemic control work was under his personal instructions from the very beginning. The announcement of this major victory after a long period of silence is a kind of declaration. He meant to say, as the two sessions will be held soon, no one shall pursue the responsibility of the epidemic control work anymore. Whoever wants to pursue it, he will fight to the death as he has set this tone within the top CCP body, Guo said.

The CCPs Two Sessions are scheduled to take place in Beijing on March 5. Xi announced his victory in leading the pandemic control work 17 days before the Two Sessions start.

China Experts point out this years session is full of dangers for Xi Jinping.

Chinese pro-democracy activist Wei Jingsheng also shared similar views at the Elite Forum. With so many deaths occuring during the three years of the pandemic, some delegates may force Xi to give an explanation, just as former CCP leader Mao Zedong faced criticism at the Seven Thousand Cadres Conference in January 1962, he said.

The Seven Thousand Cadres Conference was held from Jan. 11 to Feb. 7, 1962, after the miserable failure of Maos Great Leap Forward movement, which led to a three-year famine throughout China from 1959 to 1961. An estimated 30 million people died of starvation in those three years. The main theme of the conference was to review Maos responsibility in the failure of the Great Leap Forward movement, after which Mao handed over power and retired, leaving Liu Shaoqi, the No. 2 man in the Party, as the leader of the CCP.

The Chinese authorities never revealed the true death toll that occurred during those three years. Similarly, the CCP has heavily underreported the COVID-19 death toll in the past three years.

The official figures released by the CCP claim that as of Feb. 9 of this year, the cumulative number of COVID-19 deaths in China was over 83,000. However, the New York Times reported on Feb. 16 that four unrelated academic teams had come up with similar estimates indicating that the epidemic may have killed between 1 million and 1.5 million people in China in the past two months alone.

As the CCP has been covering up the truth and blatantly lying to the public, Chinese people created a catchphrase this year: They dont care if you believe it or not, they only care if you are obedient or not.

Wei believes that Xis victory declaration was an attempt to point at a deer and call it a horse and to use authority to suppress and silence peopleincluding his political opponents.

It is possible that everyone is scared and will choose to remain silent, but the end result is hard to tell, Wei said.

Military Support

The Chinese military authorities suddenly issued an order demanding that the entire army be absolutely loyal to Xi Jinping, according to a report by Xinhua News Agency on Feb. 13. This implies Xi wanted to secure military obedience a few days before he declared victory over the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Xinhua report stated that the CCP Central Military Commission (CMC) required all divisions of the Peoples Liberation Army to strengthen the CMC Chairman Responsibility System, and to achieve absolute loyalty, absolute purity, and absolute reliability.

The core of the CMC Chairman Responsibility System is to guarantee that the highest leadership authority and command authority belong to the CMC Chairman.

Political commentator Chen Pokong said on his self-media platform on Feb. 16 that the CMC directive reflected Xis deep insecurity.

Now the whole army is no longer the Partys guard, but Xi Jinpings private army, Chen said.

In addition, Xis extreme Zero-COVID policy has depleted government fiscal revenues at different levels. The draconian lockdown measures triggered the White Paper Revolution in late November, and the drying up of government funds led to health insurance cuts for retirees, which eventually sparked the Grey Hair Revolution in several Chinese cities in February this year when thousands of seniors took to the street to protest.

Protesters in Beijing hold up blank white pieces of paper to protest against censorship and Chinas strict zero-COVID measures, on Nov. 27, 2022. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

Wei further pointed out that for more than a decade, the Xi administration has been sending many CCP officials to prison on charges of corruption. As a result, there are CCP officials at all levels who harbor resentment toward Xi.

Xi Jinping will likely face the same crisis in the upcoming Two Sessions, as Mao did at the 7,000-member Conference, Wei said.
That release could not be found.
Man Utd win League Cup to end six-year trophy drought

FOOTBALL: Manchester United clinched their first major trophy for six years with a ruthless 2-0 win against Newcastle in the League Cup final at Wembley yesterday (Feb 26).

Football

By AFP

Monday 27 February 2023, 08:55AM

Manchester Uniteds players celebrate with the trophy after their victory yesterday (Feb 26). Photo: AFP

Erik ten Hags side took control by half-time thanks to Casemiros header and a Sven Botman own goal and held firm despite Newcastles second-half pressure.

Uniteds first silverware since 2017, when they won the League Cup and the Europa League in the Jose Mourinho era, was just reward for a mature display that underlined the impressive work done by Dutchman Ten Hag since he arrived from Ajax last year.

The celebrations that accompanied Uniteds sixth League Cup triumph could be the first of many trophy parades on the evidence of Ten Hags transformative first season.

You have to win the first one and that is what we did today, Ten Hag said.

We can get a lot of inspiration from this and more confidence that we can do it.

We are still at the start of restoring Manchester United to where we belong - winning trophies.

United remain challengers on three other fronts, sitting third in the Premier League and with an FA Cup fifth round tie against West Ham on Wednesday followed by a Europa League last 16 tie against Real Betis in March.

After 10 years in the wilderness since Alex Ferguson retired having led them to their last Premier League title in 2013, United are finally emerging from one of the darkest period in the clubs illustrious history.

United finished a dismal sixth in the Premier League last season, but Ten Hag has swiftly masterminded their return to relevance

It was fitting that Ten Hags maiden trophy success with United came after he met Ferguson for dinner recently and with the Scot watching from the Wembley stands.

Ending Uniteds longest trophy drought for 40 years is no guarantee of future success, but the steely Ten Hag appears capable of thriving in the unrelenting Old Trafford spotlight.

United co-chairman Avram Glazer, attending his first game since the November announcement that his family are considering offers for the club, might reconsider selling up after viewing what could be the start of a golden era.

Despite failing to win their first major trophy since the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, Newcastle can also expect to feature in more showpiece occasions soon.

United renaissance

Newcastle have been revitalised since their takeover by a Saudi-funded consortium in 2021 and they competed gamely in their first cup final for 24 years

We played really well between both boxes. I cant fault the players efforts, but we didnt defend the free-kick well enough for the first goal. Thats what we will regret, Howe said.

Newcastles fanatical Toon Army turned one half of Wembley into a roiling sea of black and white as they belted out songs of praise for their heroes well over an hour before kick-off.

But that show of Geordie passion proved the highpoint of the day for Newcastle as United spoiled the party in composed style.

Newcastle had feared stand-in keeper Loris Karius might be exposed in his first major occasion since his howlers led to Liverpools 2018 Champions League final defeat against Real Madrid.

Playing instead of the suspended Nick Pope, Karius might feel he could have done better with Uniteds second goal, but he was not to blame for Newcastles defeat.

United went ahead in the 33rd minute when Luke Shaws free-kick arrowed towards the Newcastle six-yard box and Casemiro timed his run perfectly to glance a clinical header past Karius.

It was just reward for the latest commanding performance from the United midfielder following his move from Real Madrid last year.

Ten Hags team had the momentum and doubled their lead in the 39th minute.

Wout Weghorsts pass found Marcus Rashford inside the area and, with Newcastles defenders slow to react, he hit a mistimed shot that deflected off Botman and looped over the wrong-footed Karius.

Newcastle laid siege to David De Geas goal in the second half but, showing the desire and organisation demanded by their manager, Ten Hags men refused to buckle.

If Uniteds last League Cup triumph ended up as fools gold, this success suggests the Ten Hag era is built on far stronger foundations.
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Ukrainian cleared of illegal taxi complaint, fined for no licence

PHUKET: A Ukrainian man has successfully defended himself from allegations that he was illegally working in Phuket as a taxi driver, but has been fined B1,000 for driving a vehicle without a drivers licence.

transporttourism

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Monday 27 February 2023, 06:25PM

The issue came to the fore after a video was posted online showing the man, later identified as Ukrainian national Andril Mindalin, 35, parking a passenger van in a sidestreet in Patong.

Sitting in the back of the van were four people, including Mr Mindalins friend and compatriot Aleksei Kikhaev, 39, Kornpitak Assuwan, head of the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO) academic group (or policy division), told the press today (Feb 27).

The man recording the video accused Mr Mindalin of working illegally as a taxi driver. Mr Mindalin denied the accusation, saying the people in the back were just friends on holiday.

Regardless, the man who recorded the video clip said he would show the video to police.

Mr Kornpitak confirmed today that he had been informed of  and already investigated  the incident.

Mr Kornpitak said that his office, working with Patong Police and Phuket Tourist Police, had confirmed that the group had indeed travelled to Phuket from Pattaya.

The van belongs to Mr Kikhaev, who was one of the four people in the van at the time the video was recorded, Mr Kornpitak said.

The van is legally registered in Chonburi as a private van with more than seven seats, complete with blue-and-white licence plates, he added.

The group had driven from Pattaya, with Mr Kikhaev behind the wheel for the drive to the island. After reaching Phuket, Mr Mindalin took the wheel as he had lived in Phuket before and was more familiar with the roads, Mr Kornpitak explained.

However, Mr Mindalin was fined B1,000 for driving without a licence, Mr Kornpitak confirmed.

The case has been resolved already and police have warned Mr Mindalin to get a drivers licence, but the accusation that he was working illegally as a taxi driver is not true, Mr Kornpitak said.

Mr Mindalin was warned that if he were caught again driving without a licence he would face more serious legal action, he said.

Immigration officers were also involved in the investigation, Mr Kornpitak noted.

While speaking with the press today, Mr Kornpitak took the opportunity for Thai and foreign drivers to cooperate with officers at checkpoints checking vehicles for drivers working illegally as taxi drivers/

It may take a bit more time to stop at the checkpoints, but it is to enforce the regulations in Phuket, he said.
The Houston County Commission approved a request to participate in the Association of County Commissions of Alabamas (ACCA) Liability Self-Insurance Fund for calendar years 2024-2026 during its regular meeting on Monday morning.

This is essentially a self-funded policy with all of the participating counties in the state, Peter Covert, chief administrative officer for the county, told commissioners during the meeting. Its sort of a control group that shares in that liability, so they get a better rate than normal.

ACCA created this fund in 1986 in order to help counties across the state that were facing increased prices in the commercial insurance market. Counties who are participating in this fund get coverage that is custom-tailored to the needs of their county according to the ACCAs website.

Other counties have left the ACCA to find better deals on the private market, but Houston County isnt in position to take that chance, Covert said.

Ive heard that some of the larger counties who have a significant insurance component of their own might be able to get a better rate in a year because of their claims experience, Covert said. But our county is not of the size that will allow us to benefit from that.

The ACCA requested the county commission approve the resolution by the end of March in order to allow the organization to group the participants together and go to the insurance market in time for the next policy year, which will be the fall of 2023.

Commissioners voted to authorize participation in the ACCAs fund and Chairman Brandon Shoupe is expected to sign off on the accompanying participation agreement by the end of March.

In other action Monday, the county commission approved the following items:

Reappointed Donna West to the Southern Alabama Regional Council on Aging (SARCOA).

Reappointed Gloria Jeffcoat to the Dothan-Houston County Library System Board.

Approved a request to abolish the Houston County Farm Center Board.

Approved an agreement with the Town of Ashford for conveyance of burial plots and maintenance of portion of Crawford Street.
SEAN BERGEL, Wheeler, Baseball, Junior; Bergel struck out eight and allowed only five hits as Wheeler defeated Griswold in its season opener. Bergel walked just one batter and allowed two earned runs.

CAMI BROWN, Stonington, Softball, Junior; Brown finished 11 for 16 in four games for the Bears. Brown doubled four times, tripled twice and drove in nine runs.

CASEY MACERA, Westerly, Girls Lacrosse, Freshman, Macera scored five goals in a Division III win against Rocky Hill. Westerly ended a 15-game losing streak with the victory.

ADAM CARPENTER, Chariho, Baseball, Sophomore; Carpenter pitched a two-hitter in his varsity debut as the Chargers beat East Providence. Carpenter carried a no-hitter into the sixth. He struck out 10 and did not walk a batter.

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The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will hold public Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program meetings in the Wiregrass area this week.

These meetings are open to the public and media are invited to attend. The meetings are:

Dale County: Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Daleville Convention Center, 750 Daleville Ave. Daleville.

Houston County: Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. at Taylor Town Hall, 1469 S. Highway 605, Taylor.

Henry County: Wednesday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Abbeville United Methodist Church, 100 W. Kelly St., Abbeville.

Barbour County: Wednesday, March 1, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. at Eufaula Community Center, 14 Community Dr., Eufaula.

Geneva County: Thursday, March 2, from 1 to 4:30 p.m., Hartford Community Center, 403 S. 3rd Ave., Hartford.

The Alabama Community Broadband Technical Assistance Program, administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Digital Expansion Division, provides technical assistance to units of local government and other public stakeholders in Alabama seeking to deploy or expand broadband infrastructure and services to help communities prepare for broadband deployment and digital opportunities.

This program is funded through grants from the US Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration and National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

This program enables participating counties and jurisdictions within those counties the tools to understand broadband gaps and opportunities, and to position their communities for broadband efforts to address these.

Over the next few years, the State of Alabama will make unprecedented funds available for this specific purpose and local engagement is critical to shaping the states plans and positioning counties to take maximal advantage of these opportunities.

This county-level broadband technical assistance will involve three phases:

1) Stakeholder engagement and asset identification for broadband readiness

2) Data Collection and collaboration to baseline broadband needs and assess current state

3) Strategy development for broadband deployment and digital opportunity partnerships.




A 26-year-old American man was killed in a shooting attack on Route 90 near the Beit Haarava Junction on Monday evening.

Magen David Adom and United Hatzalah Volunteers were on the scene and doing CPR on the victim who was rushed to Hadassah Mount Scopus Hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his wounds.

The IDF continues to search for the terrorist who carried out the attack, and has set up roadblocks and checkpoints in the area as they hunt for the murderer.

The victim was later identified as Elan Ganales, hyd. Ganeles grew up in West Hartford, Connecticut and attended Modern Orthodox schools. His family belonged to the Young Israel of West Hartford shul, where Ganeles served as a baal koreh as a teenager.

Ganales spent a year in Israel after high school and ended up extending his stay and enlisting in the army. He later returned to the US to attend Columbia. He had traveled to Israel this week for a wedding.

Ganeles is survived by his parents and two younger brothers, Simon and Gabriel. His levaya will take place in Israel and his family members will return to Connecticut to sit shiva.

We are shattered by the loss of Elan Ganeles, a US-Israeli citizen and IDF vet murdered today by Palestinian terrorists, a statement from the Israeli Consulate in New York said. Elan grew up in Connecticut and graduated last May from Columbia. He volunteered in his local community & sought to better the world. May his memory be a blessing.

Separately, another Israeli-owned car came under gunfire near the Beit Haarava Junction. The Israeli motorist continued driving until the nearby Almog Junction and reported the incident to the authorities. Bchasdei Hashem, none of the passengers in the vehicle were injured.

DEVELOPING STORY




Donald Trump has issued a stern warning that current President Joe Biden is leading the world into oblivion over his actions that the former president is bringing the world to the brink of World War III.

World War III is looming, like never before, in the very dark and murky background. Leadership is solely responsible for this unprecedented danger to the USA, and likewise, the World. HOPELESS JOE BIDEN IS LEADING US INTO OBLIVION!!! Trump wrote on Truth Social.

Trump declined to specify what specifically Biden is doing that is leading to another world war. However, Trump has repeatedly globalism and warmongers who he said are posing a serious threat to the US.

Through weakness and incompetence, Joe Biden has brought us to the brink of World War III, Trump said at a campaign stop last month. Were at the brink of World War III, just in case anybody doesnt know it. As president, I will bring back peace through strength.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




HaGaon HaRav Yitzchak Zilberstein was asked a shaila by a Bnei Brak avreich who wrote that he is is scared to go to shul on Shabbos with his children as no one in the shul carries a gun.

I checked out the possibility of obtaining a gun from the police for Shabatos and Yamim Tovim and they told me that they have a condition that I volunteer in the Bnei Brak civil guard for 45 hours a month, the avreich wrote. That would mean patrolling the streets in a car in certain areas and then I could receive a gun license. It would be at night so it wouldnt be on the cheshbon of my learning in kollel. Is it appropriate for me to do this? the avreich asked.

HaRav Zilberstein responded: Its chaval that even within the tzibur of Bnei Torah, there are those who arent sufficiently aware of the chashivus of their limmud and dont sufficiently believe in themselves, how much Torah protects Am Yisrael.

Today, theres the Iron Dome system, one of the most sophisticated systems that Hakadosh Baruch Hu has given to the intelligent, a system that is capable of identifying rocket launches and detonating them while theyre still in the air  we have to thank Hakadosh Baruch Hu for this wonderful wisdom.

Imagine if someone would say to the operators of the Iron Dome: Chaval on this wonderful system  Ill go with a weapon and if I see someone about to launch a missile, Ill take care of him with my weapon. They would say to him: Youre a complete fool. This system protects the entire country from every area where they launch missiles. You, with your weapon, can perhaps protect one area, and even that, you probably cant do.

A person who learns Torah knows that when he learns Torah, he spreads the perfect protection of the Torah over himself and his entire city which protects from all harm, like it says in the Gemara in Sotah, that the Torah protects and saves.

When they asked my brother-in-law, HaGaon HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, ztl during the Gulf War whether to leave Bnei Brak, he said that it says in the Navi ( ,  ) that the king Aram sent an entire army in order to capture Elisha, and its written: And the servant of the Ish Elokim got up early and went out, and behold an army with horses and chariots was surrounding the city. And his attendant said to him: Adoni, what will we do? And he said to him: Dont fear for those who are with us are more numerous than those who are with them. And Elisha davened and said: Hashem, open his eyes and let him see. And Hashem opened his eyes and he saw, and behold the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire around Elisha.'

Who were these who were protecting Elisha? It was the Torah he learned, thats what protected him. And also today, a million pages of Gemara are protecting the city but we dont have the Navi to open our eyes to see it.

Additionally, we must be aware of what the Ohr Somayach said at the time of World War I, that every bullet has an address  and theres no chance of someone being injured if the bullet wasnt intended for him. And nothing will help the person the bullet is intended for, even if he is in a protected place hell still be injured there. And even if there was a police station right next to a place where it was decreed that there will be a terror attack, all the armed police officers wont be there and will only arrive after the terrorist completes what was decreed from Shamayim.

But we have a mitzva to do hishtadulus and theres an issur to go to a makom sakanah because the Satan prosecutes at a time of sakanah. And therefore when the issues are relevant to our actions, we must consider the crux of the matter  is this hishtadlus that Hakadosh Baruch Hu wants from us, that we close our Gemaros so we can go out with weapons? Surely not, this isnt the desired hishtadlus. On the contrary, when there are terror attacks, Hakadosh Baruch Hu is hinting to us to be mechazeik in Torah and yiras Shamayim. Hakadosh Baruch Hu doesnt bring terror attacks in order to hint to us to arm ourselves.

The second thing is to consider whether a shul where there are no weapons can be called a makom sakanah. And the answer is no, every normal place has a certain amount of sakanah, whether there are weapons there or not. But its not such a danger that were afraid to go there, and on the contrary, a makom tefillah is an especially protected place where we daven to Hashem to save us from all harsh and cruel decrees. And when theres an attack in a shul or near a shul, its a siman that Hakadosh Baruch Hu is asking us to be mechazeik ourselves even more in Torah and tefillah. These are the true weapons of Am Yisrael, HaRav Zilberstein emphasized.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Over the weekend, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida held a three-day retreat at the Four Seasons hotel in Palm Beach, Florida, for around 150 of his top donors and supporters. The event was billed as a celebration of the Florida blueprint and precedes what is likely to be a presidential bid by DeSantis, potentially putting him in competition with former President Donald Trump.

Some long-time backers of Trump were among the attendees, such as Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson, who appeared in a panel discussion moderated by DeSantis about the medical establishment. Arizona Republican Jim Lamon, Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, and Mick Mulvaney, who was Trumps acting White House chief of staff, were also seen at the retreat.

Some attendees, including Roy Bailey, a long-time Texas fundraiser who led Trumps campaign finance committee, came from the Republican donor world. A newly-launched nonprofit group that could promote DeSantis policies may also benefit the Florida governor as he increases his national profile.

However, DeSantis made no mention of his potential presidential run during the retreat.

The event was capped off by DeSantis holding a panel discussion with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, and attendees included conservative commentators Ann Coulter and Dana Loesch, Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie, Utah Senator Mike Lee, and 2022 Nevada Senate candidate Adam Laxalt.

The retreat coincided with other events in the Republican donor world, including a fundraiser hosted by Trump at Mar-a-Lago and a donor conference organized by GOP strategist Karl Rove in Austin, Texas.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




North Korean leader Kim Jong Un opened a major political conference dedicated to agriculture, state media reported Monday, as outside assessments suggest the country is facing a serious shortfall of food.

South Korean experts estimate that North Korea is short around 1 million tons of grain, nearly 20 percent of its annual demand, after the pandemic likely disrupted unofficial grain imports from China and the government has restricted food sales at markets.

Recent, unconfirmed reports in South Korean media have said that some North Koreans have died of hunger. But most experts have seen no indication of mass deaths or famine in North Korea.

During a high-level meeting of the ruling Workers Party that began Sunday, senior party officials reviewed last years work on state goals to accomplish rural revolution in the new era, the official Korean Central News Agency reported.

The report said that the plenary meeting of the partys Central Committee will identify immediate, important tasks on agricultural issues and urgent tasks arising at the present stage of the national economic development.

KCNA didnt say whether Kim spoke during the meeting or how long it would last. Senior officials such as Cabinet Premier Kim Tok Hun and Jo Yong Won, one of Kims closest aides who handles the Central Committees organizational affairs, also attended.

Plenary meetings are key decision-making venues for the Workers Party. In recent years, Kim has held a plenary meeting two to four times a year to formulate major policies.

It is the first time the party has convened a plenary session only to discuss agriculture. Mondays report didnt elaborate on its agenda, but the partys Politburo said earlier this month that a turning point is needed to dynamically promote radical change in agricultural development.

Most analysts say North Koreas food situation today is nowhere near the extremes of the 1990s, when hundreds of thousands of people died in a famine. However, some experts say its food insecurity is likely at its worst since Kim took power in 2011, after COVID-19 restrictions further shocked an economy battered by decades of mismanagement and crippling U.S.-led sanctions imposed over Kims nuclear program. Russias war on Ukraine possibly worsened the situation by driving up global prices of food, energy and fertilizer.

Its unclear whether North Korea will take any significant steps to address food shortages. The impoverished country devotes much of its scarce resources to its nuclear program.

To produce more grains, they should increase inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides and agricultural machines. But North Korea rarely comes up with such measures, said Nam Sung-wook, a professor at Korea University in South Korea. They have a limited budget. They can still take such steps (to produce more grain) with the money theyre spending on its missile development program.

North Korea has accelerated missile tests since last year, launching more than 70 missiles, many of them nuclear-capable weapons that place the U.S. mainland, South Korea and Japan within striking distance.

Nam said the current food problems dont pose a serious political threat to Kim, noting that his familys rule wasnt shaken even during the 1990s famine.

Last year, North Koreas grain production was estimated at 4.5 million tons, a 3.8% drop from a year earlier according to South Korean government assessments. The North was estimated to have produced between 4.4 million tons to 4.8 million tons of grain annually from 2012-2021, according to previous South Korean data.

North Korea needs about 5.5 million tons of grain to feed its 25 million people annually, so its short about 1 million tons this year. In past years, half of such a gap was usually met by unofficial grain purchases from China, with the rest remaining as unresolved shortfall, according to Kwon Tae-jin, a senior economist at the private GS&J Institute in South Korea.

Kwon says trade curbs due to the pandemic have likely hindered unofficial rice purchases from China. Efforts by North Korean authorities to tighten controls and restrict market activities have also worsened the situation, he said.

South Koreas Unification Ministry said the Norths current food shortage is more an issue of distribution than an absolute shortage, because much of the grain harvested last year has not been consumed yet.

Ministry officials said that the Norths food insecurity has worsened as authorities tightened controls over private grain sales in markets, instead trying to confine the grain trade to state-run facilities.

With the countrys factory and machinery sectors likely decimated by the border controls, Kim has been focusing on boosting grain production and reviving construction and other sectors that are less dependent on imported materials. Some experts say Kim likely aims to burnish his image as a leader who cares for public livelihoods as he seeks public support of his fight against U.S.-led sanctions and pressure campaigns.

State media reported that Kim and his beloved daughter broke ground Saturday on a project to build thousands of new homes in the Sopho district of Pyongyang, the capital. It was the seventh known public activity involving Kims daughter, believed to about 10 years old, since she made her first public appearance in November.

Last year, North Korea reopened freight train traffic with China and Russia and relaxed domestic restrictions, after it made a highly dubious claim that it had overcome the pandemic only three months after it acknowledged its first domestic outbreak. Analysts say its still unlikely that North Korea will completely end its curbs any time soon because many of its people remain unvaccinated and its public health care system is largely broken.

(AP)




China on Monday accused the U.S. of outright bullying and double standards in leveling what it called illegal sanctions on Chinese companies as part of U.S. actions against Russias Wagner Group and related companies and individuals.

The entities were targeted for their role in the war in Ukraine and mercenary activities, including human rights abuses, in Africa.

The sanctions have no basis in international law or authorization from the Security Council, and are typical illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a daily briefing.

The punitive measures were seriously harming Chinas interests and China strongly rejects and deplores that and has lodged solemn complaints with the U.S. side, Mao said.

While the U.S. has intensified its efforts to send weapons to one of the parties to the conflict, resulting in an endless war, it has frequently spread false information about Chinas supply of weapons to Russia, taking the opportunity to sanction Chinese companies for no reason, she said. This is outright bullying and double standards.

The Treasury and State departments announced the moves in coordinated statements that targeted dozens of Wagner Group affiliates, including some in the Central African Republic and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the president of Russias Kalashnikov Concern, the original manufacturer of the AK-47 assault rifle.

Wagner, a private Russian military company, has been involved in heavy fighting in the east of Ukraine.

The sanctions also hit the Chinese company Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute Co. Ltd., also known as Spacety China, which has supplied Wagner Group affiliates with satellite imagery of Ukraine that support Wagners military operations there. A Luxembourg-based subsidiary of Spacety China was also targeted.

(AP)




By Rabbi Yair Hoffman for 5tjt.com

With due respect, the recent statement from former IDF brigadier general, MK Zvika Fogel (Otzma Yehudit), told to Galei Yisrael radio Monday morning that he wanted to see Huwara shuttered and burned needs to be condemned. It was, of course, said in response to Sundays murder of two Jewish youth, Har Bracha residents, 22-year-old Hillel Menachem Yaniv and 20-year-old Yagel Yaakov Yaniv  two brothers.

The clear-cut Talmudic view of the inherent harm and danger of vigilantism can be seen from the Maharshas explanation of the Gemorah in Bava Kamma (117b), where Rav Kahana took vigilante action against an informer (Moser). The Gemorah describes it as an incorrect action that required Kaparah  atonement on his part. Why? The Maharsha explains, because he performed this action out of vigilantism. Other Achronim understand this Gemorah in the same fashion.

Vigilantism is wrong  period. It has always undermined the notion of law and order and is antithetical to one of the principal notions of the seven Noachide laws  the establishment of a legal system. Indeed, even the killing of Zimri by Pinchas which some view as an act of vigilantism was most decidedly no such thing  the Halacha itself clearly dictates that Kanaim Pogim Bo is part of the Torahs system of jurisprudence.

Vigilantism is wrong because the Torah gave specific instructions to judges on how to judge. Shamoah Bain Acheichem  listen amongst your brethren (Dvarim 1:16). Judges are adjured to make sure that both parties dress equally  if one side is too poor to afford the clothing, we dress him accordingly. Why? So that the Torahs sense of fairness will reign supreme and that no judge show a bias to one side because of his inability to dress properly. When a vigilante applies his own sense of justice, without due process, these Torah laws and ideals are undermined.

Vigilantism involves three essential elements:

The taking of the law into ones hands rather than that of the true enforcers of the law.

Doing so without due process to the vigilantes target

Doing so according to ones own, often limited, understanding of the law.

All three of these elements fit neither within the framework of secular law, nor lhavdil within the framework of Halacha. And all three set a very dangerous precedent.

The world may have fashioned and shaped an appeal to vigilantism, but these notions are entirely foreign to Torah thought. As Rav Elyashiv ztl has consistently pointed out, we Torah Jews do things in a Beis Din and not on our own (Shiur on BM 113a). The verse in Dvarim (17:11) states quite clearly, Al pi haTorah asher yorucha  according to the Torah that they shall teach  this refers to the Beis Din  not to ones own individual feelings about how things ought to be. This is what we must follow and we must sway neither to the right nor to the left.

The type of thinking that encourages vigilantism has allowed for devastating things to happen rl  that should never have happened. Not only is this type of thinking incorrect, but, the truth is that we should all be looking at such vigilantism with a sense of disgust and anathema.

Rav Eliyahu Eliezer Dessler ztl (in Michtav MEliyahu Vol. II p. 548) explains that in the time of Yehoshua, all of Israel was punished with the loss at the battle of Ai, even though it was only one member of the entire nation of Israel that had actually sinned. Why then was the entire nation punished? Rav Dessler explains that it was because they did not look with anathema at anyone who might violate the command of Yehoshua not to touch the spoils of war.

An MK who lauds vigilantism as a positive ideal is, at best, grossly irresponsible. At worst, it can and has been the cause of some very serious devastation hope that Hashem will give them the strength to do so once again.

That being said, the horrific murder of these two young men and the celebrations that took place at their murders must be condemned at the highest level of American and international governments. The celebration of the murders of the innocent is something that should be stopped through all legal channels. Like the de-Nazification that the allies did after the second world war, plans and efforts must be developed and encouraged to remove text-books that encourage murders and people who express such statements should be jailed and and/or prosecuted for incitement.

The author can be reached at [email protected]




U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said Monday her first visit to Ukraine underscored Washingtons commitment to continuing its economic support for the country, as the din of air raid sirens echoed across the Ukrainian capital.

Yellen said following talks with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal that the US has provided nearly $50 billion in security, economic and humanitarian assistance and announced another multibillion dollar package to boost the countrys economy.

Shmyhal offered thanks to the U.S. for its support and hailed Yellen as a friend of Ukraine. He said Ukraines budget deficit now stands at $38 billion and that the U.S. will provide another $10 billion in assistance by September.

Shmyhal and Yellen also discussed sanctions aimed at weakening Russias economy as well as the possibility of using Russian frozen assets to help in Ukraines economic recovery.

Yellen repeated U.S. President Joe Bidens message that Washington will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes. She underscored the importance of fighting corruption, praising Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for enacting measures to ensure transparency in how the assistance is spent.

The U.S. official also visited a renovated school that had its windows blown out by the blast wave from a Russian missile that landed nearby in March. She also announced an additional transfer of $1.2 billion, the first tranche of the $10 billion assistance package.

Maintaining an effective government is indispensable to Ukraines capacity to respond to Russian attacks and other emergencies, said Yellen. Our economic support is keeping essential public services running. These services maintain economic and social stability in Ukraine.

Addressing the schools students and teachers, Yeller said they are helping to write history in a country that is a central force in the history of the free world.

America stands with you in this fight for freedom, and we will be by your side and help you rebuild.

Yellen also met with Zelenskyy and other top officials, including the head of Ukraines National Bank.

Zelenskyy posted on Telegram after the meeting with Yellen that it is necessary to strengthen further sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war.

Yellen also laid the flowers at the Wall of Remembrance dedicated to fallen soldiers and met Ukrainian landmine removal experts whose equipment was financed with US funds.

(AP)
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The Sephardic Center

Our Heart is in the Center

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If you want to know where the action is in Miami, head to Surfside.

The newest addition to the Sephardic community is an extraordinarily active, energetic, inclusive community center. The Sephardic Center opened its doors just three months ago, and the programing has been virtually non-stop. A large, enthusiastic crowd celebrated the chanukat habayit, and the Center has since held a Chanukah event, arranged a Shabbaton with Rabbi Aharon Levy, and hosted speakers such as Rabbi David Yosef, Rabbi Moshe Pinto, Rabbi Yinon Kalazn and many more. Teen programming includes weekly classes with Rabbi Maoz Tal and a teen Shabbat minyan. The Center has provided social events and learning opportunities for ladies; daily minyanim; daily and weekly classes; Thursday night mishmar  think cholent, lchayim, music, the works  and Shabbat minyanim for over two hundred neshamot every week, complete with a lavish Sephardic kiddush and seudah shelishit.

Rabbi Yair Massri, a young, energetic leader in the community, took the initiative to address the growing demand for a community center specifically designed for Sephardic culture to flourish. Rabbi Massri is the type who harnesses every moment to create the maximum impact. He secured a location, rallied the very people that had been petitioning to take the community to the next level, and went all-in to make this house a Sephardic home for every Jew.

Approbations for the Sephardic Center include a star-studded list of rabbonim from Sephardic communities around the world. Rabbi Eli Mansour shalita of Brooklyn, NY, is one of the most respected leaders of Sephardic Jewry today. Rabbi Massri has met with Rabbi Mansour on many occasions, and they discussed the Sephardic Center prior to its opening in December 2022. Rabbi Mansours conclusion speaks volumes: Ive been around the world, so I know something good when I see it, and I know something even great when I see it. This is a great item here, the Rabbi. Hold on to [Rabbi Massri], stick next to him, and I have no doubt you are going to succeed.

Rabbi David Yosef shalita of Har Nof, Yerushalayim (son of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef zlt, the beloved former Chief Sephardic Rabbi of Eretz Yisrael), echoes Rabbi Mansours support. In an address to the Sepharidc Center community, Rabbi Yosef said, You have here a very good Rabbi, Rabbi Yair Massri Shalita, [] a talmid chacham and a good leader, but [launching the Center and reaching out to other Jews is] not only his job. Its everyones job! Everyone should help the Rabbi. It is up to you! [] Im sure this is only the beginning, and BzH it will be much much more. BzH youll merit together with the Rav [] and be successful in bringing those that are far from the ways of Torah back to their roots, and youll accomplish great and wonderful things.

To fuel the growth of the up-and-coming community, the Sephardic Center is kicking off a crowdfunding campaign on Sunday February 26th. They have their goal set on raising $1 million in just 36 hours at Charidy.com/Center. These initial funds are critical for the Sephardic Center to continue to flourish.

Locals are basking in the warmth of a homemade for Sephardim, by Sephardim, where they feel their unique culture come to life. Visitors take the passion home with them, telling their friends that this place is different  Hey, when youre down there next week, go check it out. Youll see what I mean, you have to go.

Click Here to Donate & Help the Sephardic Center flourish!

You can reach Rabbi Massri at 917-982-6165

or [email protected]

9524 Abbott Ave, Surfside
Feature: Amid emotional aftermath, Turkish quake survivors need mental health aid

Xinhua) 11:01, February 27, 2023

ANKARA, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- As survivors of the earthquakes in Turkiye are facing devastating trauma and loss, psychological support is essential for healing after a disaster of such proportions that has affected millions, experts said.

Tens of thousands of people died in the massive earthquakes striking Turkiye and Syria on Feb. 6. The Turkish Enterprise and Business Confederation put the cost of the disaster in the country at 84.1 billion dollars, but the mental health consequences remain incalculable.

"The most vulnerable groups are women, children, people with prior mental health disorders, and people with disabilities," said Ankara-based psychiatrist Hande Karakilic Ucer.

Not to mention the children who have lost both parents to the disaster and been separated from their extended families, she told Xinhua.

Research conducted by the Turkish Health Ministry following the 1999 earthquake showed that children and adolescents are more prone to developing mental health problems than adults are when they have been exposed to traumatic natural disasters.

People around children should not act as if nothing happened, Ucer noted, referring to the danger of victims shutting down their emotions in face of the trauma.

"We have to be open with children and explain this disaster to them in a language that they can comprehend," she said, adding that "play therapy" and establishing a daily routine are essential for children to survive a grieving period.

In Turkiye, the 7.7 and 7.6 magnitude quakes have claimed 44,218 lives, according to the latest statistics on Saturday. Expert psychologists and psychiatrists have been dispatched to the quake-hit regions to help residents cope with the profound impact.

Experts also recommend survivors limit their consumption of bad news and disturbing social media posts over the catastrophe.

"Media exposure can influence our behavior following a natural disaster, and trigger mental disorders," Ucer said.

Seda Ozcan is a 27-year-old earthquake survivor from Antakya, a city near the Syrian border leveled by the earthquakes.

Since the disaster, she is experiencing debilitating anxiety attacks that keep her up at night and from going through normal daily tasks.

"It's not the earthquakes itself, it's the whole situation we are facing, homelessness, concerns about the future, it's hard," she told Xinhua in Ankara, to which her family has been evacuated.

Offering psychological support to those impacted by a disaster involves a long process, health professionals say, as tiding through stages of trauma takes time.

The vastness of the quake-hit zone spanning over 10 Turkish provinces home to 13.5 million people adds to the challenge.

"In six months, survivors will enter the disappointment phase, and then will they face the bitter reality of things, ultimately followed by the healing phase," Ucer said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Customers visit a Vietnamese booth at the Vietnamese Week in Thailand 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand. Photo by VNA

A Vietnam Town is being developed in Udon Thani province, which is hosting the largest overseas Vietnamese community in Thailand, said Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Phan Chi Thanh during a visit.

Udon Thani is currently home to more than 60,000 Vietnamese-origin people. President Ho Chi Minh lived in the locality in the 1920s.

The Vietnam Town is expected to become a cultural center of Vietnamese people in Thailand's northeastern region, and a place to keep the tradition and culture of the Vietnamese community as well as a tourist attraction.

The project has received strong support of the local administration, which decided to invest 3 million THB (nearly US$86,000) in building and upgrading the infrastructure system of the town.

Visiting the construction site in Alley 2 on Saturday, Si Suk street of Udon Thani city, Ambassador Thanh and Udon Thani city Mayor Thanadorn Phuttharaksa discussed measures to speed up the progress of the project.

Ambassador Thanh thanked Mayor Thanadorn and the administration of Udon Thani city for their support to the Vietnamese community as well as the investment in the project. He described the project as a symbol of the friendship and warm sentiments that Thai and Vietnamese people give each other as well as the traditional bilateral ties.

With the project, Thani will be the first city in the world that has a Vietnam Town, he said.

For his part, Mayor Thanadorn highly valued the traditional beauty of Vietnamese people, which has been maintained among the Vietnamese community in Udon Thani.

He affirmed that the municipal administration will complete the upgrade of roads and pavements of the town in two months, and finish the decoration within this year.

He added that the city will also coordinate with the Vietnamese Thai Association in the province to implement the project, including the building of food stalls and souvenir shops, thus attracting visitors.

During his stay in Udon Thani, Ambassador Thanh also discussed with local authorities and leaders of Udon Thani Rajabhat University on the implementation of some projects to preserve and promote Vietnamese culture in the locality, including the building of a Vietnamese Culture Center in the city and the setting up of a faculty of Vietnamese studies at the university.
One former colleague of mine used to greet any reference to pension funds with a deep groan and a cry of: 'Boring!'

The minutiae can certainly be tedious. One thing about pension funds, however, is very interesting indeed.

They are sitting on mountains of money. And they have billions of it languishing in supposedly low-risk gilts when it could be used to reboot the UK economy.

Behind Jeremy Hunt's Budget next month lies an uncomfortable reality. Unless we act soon, Britain will be mired in the quicksand of low growth, low productivity, high taxes, high political turnover and high anxiety.

The current debates revolve around GDP growth or the lack of it, and whether or not we are in recession. Kier Starmer fell into that trap when he pledged to make the UK the fastest-growing economy in the G7.

Loosening the shackles: There is huge untapped investment potential locked up, with far too little going into infrastructure and venture capital

But comparisons with the gross domestic product of other countries are irrelevant to the daily lives of many voters. What people want are concrete measures to make their lives better and more prosperous.

They don't have to be particularly Left-wing to be disillusioned by some of the divisive, greedy and rapacious variants of capitalism on display in recent years.

Many of us want a more inclusive, long-term capitalism that improves our lives by investing in healthcare, education, housing and transport. The most urgent problems facing the economy now are infrastructure, de-carbonising and an ageing population  which brings us back to pensions.

UK funds are a mix of final salary, stock market linked and public sector schemes. There is huge untapped investment potential locked up in these funds  which have been pushed by regulators to invest heavily in gilts  with far too little going into infrastructure and venture capital.

Gilts are supposedly ultra-safe government bonds. But they have resulted in low returns and crowded out other, potentially higher-return investments.

A further irony is that overseas pension funds have ploughed billions into our water, airports and energy sectors. So UK infrastructure is acting as a lucrative piggy bank for retirees in Canada, Australia and the US whilst British pensioners are missing out.

Moves are afoot to unleash pension power but it's all painfully slow. Take local authority schemes, which in England and Wales have assets of nearly 300billion between them. As part of levelling up, the Government has said it wants them to set a target of having 5 per cent of assets in local projects, which it claims would unlock 16billion in investment.

And reforms to Solvency II rules for insurance companies could release up to 100billion for investment over the next decade, but Hunt must get on with it.

One reason change has been so glacial is the legitimate concern that funds do not pump members' money into risky projects.

The current balance, however, is wrong. Retirees are missing out on the opportunity for better returns. Equally important, the economy is being starved of capital that could be put to use to improve productivity and to create high wage jobs.

This is an area where the Chancellor should be bold in his Budget. He should put some welly behind existing reforms and consider new measures, for instance setting compulsory thresholds for funds' investment in infrastructure.

Pensions need not be dull: they could be a powerful secret weapon.
Business chiefs have called for Jeremy Hunt to take serious action in next month's Budget as service sector profits crumble.

Under pressure: Business chiefs have called for Jeremy Hunt to take serious action in next month's Budget as service sector profits crumble

Confederation of British Industry (CBI) head Tony Danker previously warned that UK firms were facing a 'double whammy' in the spring when corporation tax is due to rise from 19 per cent to 25 per cent and a 'super-deduction' offering incentives to invest is set to end.

Now Charlotte Dendy, head of economy surveys at the CBI, which represents 190,000 UK businesses, has called on the Chancellor to replace the super-deduction 'by either introducing full expensing for capital investments or setting out a three-year roadmap to achieve exactly that'.
Melrose is planning to keep a tight hold on the reins when it spins off GKN's automotive business onto the London Stock Exchange in the spring, the Mail can reveal.

The demerger will be the latest move by Melrose  which buys struggling industrial companies, improves them and sells them on  after it snapped up engineering giant GKN for 8.1billion in a viciously fought takeover in 2018.

Melrose's pursuit of GKN, which traces its roots back to the industrial revolution, had been the biggest hostile takeover battle since Kraft's move on Cadbury a decade earlier.

Since then Melrose has restructured the business, including the closure of GKN's automotive engineering plant in Birmingham with the loss of 500 jobs in 2021.

The Erdington site was renowned for making driveline systems for the car industry, with customers including Jaguar Land Rover.

Making changes: Melrose's pursuit of GKN had been the biggest hostile takeover battle since Kraft's move on Cadbury a decade earlier

The late Jack Dromey, then the local Labour MP, described the closure as a 'hammer blow' for Erdington, one of the UK's most deprived areas.

In another twist in the saga, Melrose now plans to split GKN's aerospace operations from the automotive business to float the latter on the London Stock Exchange in April, renaming it Dowlais.

The name Dowlais is a nod to the village in south Wales which was home to the industrial revolution-era iron and steelworks of the Guest family, one of the founders of the original Guest, Keen and Nettlefolds, later renamed GKN.

The new company will be led by Liam Butterworth, appointed by Melrose to run GKN Automotive in 2018.

'The hard work and the restructuring has been done,' according to a source at GKN.

But investors hoping for a clean break will be disappointed. The Daily Mail can reveal that Simon Peckham  the founder and chief executive of Melrose and architect of the GKN deal  and his finance director Geoffrey Martin will both become non-executive directors in the newly floated firm, with Melrose also retaining a 3 per cent stake.

'We don't want to lose their know-how,' the source added.

The demerger was announced in September and a prospectus for Dowlais is due on March 3 ahead of the listing the following month. The float is expected to be one of the biggest on the London Stock Exchange this year, with annual revenues of 5.2billion.
Aviation experts are calling on the government to consider expanding its visa exemption list and allow a maximum stay of up to 30 days to provide an impetus for post-reopening recovery.

Nguyen Manh Quan, general director of Bamboo Airways, said at a meeting late last week that easing visa requirements for international tourists was a top priority at this time to boost the recovery of both aviation and tourism.

Although Vietnam reopened to international tourism in March 2022, the aviation and tourism industries have not yet achieved pre-pandemic recovery as expected, Quan said as cited by Voice of Vietnam newspaper.

Aviation expert Can Van Luc said the number of international visitors to Vietnam was lower than expected as the tourism industry only sets a target of 8 million foreign visitors this year, or nearly half of pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

Expansion of the visa exemption policy is the key to attracting the return of foreign tourists, Luc added.

Vietnam just waives visas for travelers from 25 countries compared to 162 for Malaysia, 157 for the Philippines and 65 for Thailand.

Currently, only citizens of Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Kyrgyzstan are offered visa-free stay of 30 days while tourists from Chile and Panama enjoy a 90-day visa waiver.

Visitors from some European countries, Japan and South Korea, Vietnam's top tourism markets, are permitted to stay in the country for no more than 15 days without applying for a tourist visa.

Luong Hoai Nam, an aviation expert, said industry insiders several times cited visa policy as the major current bottleneck for Vietnam's tourism and aviation but that no measures have been adopted so far to deal with the problem.

Nam added that some 70-80% of international tourists arrived in Vietnam by airplane and that the slow tourism recovery also means the aviation industry will have to face more challenges.

Last week, foreign-invested firms also urged the Vietnamese government to ease visa restrictions and improve airport infrastructure to turn Vietnam into an attractive tourist destination.

Despite being one of the first Southeast Asian countries to fully reopen to international tourism post Covid, Vietnam received 3.6 million foreign tourists last year, around 20% of pre-pandemic levels.

Many Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Indonesia have already offered friendly visa policies with a maximum stay of up to 10 years to attract foreigners.
Bottles of wine sit on racks inside the cellar door tasting room at Petersons Wines, November 14, 2021. Photo by Reuters/Loren Elliott

Two and a half years after Chinese trade restrictions hit Australian products from coal to wine, a diplomatic thaw between Beijing and Canberra has raised hopes for a revival of exports and spurred businesses to take steps to rebuild ties.

First imposed by China in 2020 after years of disputes over Huawei, espionage and COVID, a raft of official and unofficial "trade blockages" worth roughly A$20 billion ($14 billion) are showing signs of loosening under a concerted diplomatic effort that has seen the leaders, foreign ministers and trade ministers of both countries meet since November.

Australian business leaders are following the political signals. Fortescue Metals founder Andrew Forrest, BHP head Mike Henry and Tim Ford, chief executive of tariff-hit winemaker Treasury Wine Estate, have scheduled visits to China in March.

The head of the Australian Forest Products Association said that Australian agriculture officials recently started "encouraging" talks with Chinese customs over log imports, once a A$600 million-a-year trade.

"We're optimistic that in the near future - could be three months, could be six months - we might see a resumption in trade," the association's chief executive, Victor Violante, told Reuters.

At least 15 vessels carrying Australian coal were bound for China last week as traders bet already-reduced trade barriers will fall further. Chinese cotton buyers are importing Australian product in anticipation an unofficial ban will lift.

An end to trade restrictions would mark an early success in Australia's effort to repair trade links with China even as it deepens security ties with the United States and United Kingdom through the AUKUS nuclear submarine alliance.

However differences over national security, human rights and other issues mean the journey to refreshed trade relations could be tentative and bumpy. Australia is expected to announce in March further details about the nuclear submarines it plans to buy, a move Beijing opposes.

Both countries remain locked in a formal World Trade Organisation dispute process over Chinese anti-dumping tariffs on barley. A report is due by March.

Nevertheless, Long Dingbin, China's top diplomat in Western Australia, a huge exporter of grains, iron ore and natural gas, met with state Premier Mark McGowan on Wednesday. McGowan hopes to go to China very soon, in what would be his fifth visit in office, the Chinese consulate in Perth said.

Long has attended at least eight events in February, meeting politicians and business groups, including a Chinese New Year party attended by more than 350 politicians and business leaders.

"People are starting to get on the front foot," Grain Trade Australia Chief Executive Pat O'Shannassy told Reuters. "Trade is ultimately about relationship and people are getting those relationships in place."

Capital is tentatively moving, too. Chinese buyers are looking at Australian assets, although Tianqi Lithium's $136 million bid for Australian lithium developer Essential Metals will test regulator appetite for investment in areas considered important for national security.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday said Australia would consider the merits of any deal but he was "conscious about Australia's sovereign capabilities".

Traders are cautious about possible bureaucratic delays. A shipment of Australian coal diverted to Vietnam last week after waiting at a Chinese port for five days without unloading.

"[The] government's attitude remains ambiguous and the bureaucratic proccess is opaque, even though the general consensus is that the rule is relaxing since last Friday," said a Chinese coal trader who declined to be named.

Even should trade resume, many producers plan to avoid becoming too reliant on China again.

Albanese travels to India next month with his trade and resources ministers and a big business delegation in tow.

The chief executive of Cattle Australia, David Foote, said producers cut off from China had spent more than two years finding new customers and would be loath to give them up.

"They'll want to add China back in but not at the offset of losing their new customers."
The United States warned China of serious consequences if it provided arms to support Russias invasion of Ukraine, as Kyivs top general visited the frontline town of Bakhmut where Ukrainian defenders were holding out against constant attacks.

Air raid sirens blared in the capital Kyiv and other cities overnight and a Russian missile strike killed one person in the western town of Khmelnitskyi, Mayor Oleksandr Symshyshyn said on the Telegram messaging app.

Washington and its NATO allies are scrambling to dissuade China from providing military aid for Moscows war, making public comments on their belief that Beijing is considering providing lethal equipment possibly including drones.

Western fears of China helping to arm Russia come as Moscows forces struggle to make gains around key objectives in eastern Ukraine, and as Kyiv prepares a counter-offensive with advanced Western weapons including battle tanks.

Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance  but if it goes down that road it will come at real costs to China, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told CNNs State of the Union programme.

While China had not moved forward in providing that aid, neither had it taken the option off the table, Sullivan said in a separate interview on ABCs This Week programme.

Beijing has refused to condemn Moscows attack on Ukraine, most recently at a meeting of the Group of Twenty (G20) in India on Saturday. It published a ceasefire proposal on Friday, the first anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine, but the offer was met with skepticism among Ukraines Western allies.

When I hear reports  and I dont know whether they are true  according to which China may be planning to supply kamikaze drones to Russia while at the same time presenting a peace plan, then I suggest we judge China by its actions and not its words, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius told German public broadcaster Deutschlandfunk on Sunday.

CIA Director William Burns also weighed in regarding China in an interview aired on Sunday, saying the U.S. intelligence agency was confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment.

We also dont see that a final decision has been made yet, and we dont see evidence of actual shipments of lethal equipment, Burns told CBSs Face the Nation programme.

Republican Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, cited reports that drones were among the weapons China was considering sending to Russia.

McCaul said Chinese leader Xi Jinping was preparing to visit Moscow next week for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Putin cast the Ukraine war, which he calls a special military operation, as a confrontation with the West which threatens the survival of Russia and the Russian people.

They have one goal: to disband the former Soviet Union and its fundamental part  the Russian Federation, Putin told Rossiya 1 state television in an interview recorded on Wednesday but released on Sunday.

NATO and the West dismiss this narrative, saying their objective in providing weapons and other aid to Kyiv is to help Ukraine defend itself against an unprovoked attack.

Even so, Putins framing of the war as a threat to Russias existence allows the Kremlin chief greater freedom in the types of weapons he could one day use, including possibly nuclear weapons.

Dmitry Medvedev, Russias former president and an ally of Putin, said in remarks published on Monday that the supply of Western arms to Kyiv risked a global nuclear catastrophe.

COMMANDER VISITS FRONT

The Ukrainian military said it had shot down 11 of 14 Iranian drones overnight Sunday, including nine over the Kyiv region.

On the frontlines, Ukrainian ground forces commander Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi visited the eastern city of Bakhmut, the focus of Russias attacks for months as it tries to take control of the Donbas industrial region.

Ukrainian forces launched a number of counter-attacks and repulsed Russian forces around the village of Yahidne over the weekend, after Russias Wagner mercenary group claimed to have captured it and the village of Berkhivka.

The Russian defence ministry said on Sunday that its forces had destroyed Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance groups, including in the area of Yahidne, while Russias TASS state agency reported that Ukraines forces blew up a dam just north of Bakhmut.

Reuters was unable to independently verify the reports.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Sunday dismissed Eduard Moskalyov as commander of the joint forces, which are engaged in battles in the Donbas, without giving any reason.

In neighbouring Belarus, a Russian ally and staging ground for Russian forces attacking Ukraine, Belarus partisans and members of the exiled opposition said they damaged a Russian A-50 surveillance military aircraft in a drone attack near Minsk on Sunday.

Reuters was unable to independently verify the reports. There was no immediate response from the defence ministries of Russia and Belarus to a request for comment.

SOURCE: REUTERS
After months of intense negotiations and years of tensions between the UK and the EU, Rishi Sunak has agreed a deal that he hopes can bring to an end the row over the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The PA news agency looks at what is in the deal and why it is so significant.

 What is the Northern Ireland Protocol and why has it been a source of tension?

It is a key part of Boris Johnsons Brexit deal, signed by the then-prime minister in 2020, and was designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland.

The Windsor Framework respects and protects our respective markets and legitimate interests. Most importantly, it protects the very hard-earned gains of the Good Friday (Belfast) Agreement for the people of Northern Ireland, and across the island of Ireland. pic.twitter.com/fcwutUA0k0  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2023

To keep the border free-flowing, London and Brussels essentially moved new regulatory and customs checks required by Brexit to the Irish Sea.

The move introduced red tape on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, creating a headache for many businesses and enraging loyalists and unionists who claim the regions place within the UK has been undermined.

The row has also left Northern Ireland without a functioning devolved government, after the Democratic Unionist Party used its veto to bring down devolution in protest at the protocol.

Its boycott means a ministerial executive cannot function and the legislative assembly cannot conduct any business.

We're introducing a new Stormont Brake. The elected Assembly can pull the brake for changes to EU goods rules that would have significant and lasting effects on everyday lives. When pulled, the UK government will have a veto. This gives Northern Ireland a powerful safeguard. pic.twitter.com/HQucBDCVHv  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 27, 2023

 What is in the new deal on trade?

The new Windsor Framework was announced by Mr Sunak and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on Monday, with the Prime Minister claiming that the agreement removes any sense of a border in the Irish Sea.

The Prime Minister set out a wider array of planned changes and reforms, covering trade, VAT regulation and the role of Stormont in EU laws that apply to Northern Ireland.

At the core of the deal is the creation of a new system for the flow of goods.

Anything destined for Northern Ireland will travel there as part of a green lane, with significantly fewer checks. Anything that could cross the border and enter the EUs single market will travel through a separate red lane.

Mr Sunak said that the changes to the protocol will scale back the number of certificates required for traders moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, with customs paperwork removed too for people sending parcels or buying goods online.

He indicated changes to the movement of food too, claiming that anything made to UK rules will now be clear to be sent to and sold in NI. That will include sausages, one of the foodstuffs hit by protocol changes and which grabbed the attention of politicians in Belfast and Westminster alike.

If food is available on supermarket shelves in Great Britain, then it will be available on supermarket shelves in Northern Ireland, Mr Sunak said.

As part of the deal, the legal text of the protocol has also been amended on VAT. Under current arrangements, EU VAT and excise rules for goods generally apply in Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said that would now change, with the legal text of the protocol amended to allow the UK Government to make critical VAT and excise changes for the whole of the UK.

Alcohol duty, for instance, was mentioned  with Mr Sunak suggesting that the cost of a pint in the pub could be cut for Northern Irish drinkers.

 What is the role of the European Court of Justice under the agreement?

It had been expected that both the UK and the EU would try to find a way around the difficult role of the European Court of Justice (ECJ). Concerns about the oversight role of the court have been raised by the DUP and some Tory backbenchers, with the issue less about trade and more about sovereignty.

The ECJ had been final arbitrator of EU law issues in the region, given the fact that Northern Ireland essentially remains within the single market for goods.

The Government believes that the agreement significantly narrows the role of the ECJ, with a new approach set to address some of the concerns of a democratic deficit for Northern Irish representatives in the application of EU law.

That arrangement, dubbed the Stormont brake, is described in the agreement as giving Stormont a genuine and powerful role in deciding whether significant new rules on goods impacting life in the region will apply. It is set to function along the same lines as the Good Friday Agreement safeguard of the petition of concern.

Under that Stormont arrangement, 30 MLA signatures are need to secure a valid petition, which then triggers a vote that requires a majority of both nationalist and unionist MLAs to pass.

It remains to be seen how the arrangement will be introduced into the Stormont institutions, if powersharing does return, but Downing Street has been clear that once triggered the brake will give the Government the power to veto any new or amended EU rule.

But speaking to reporters, Ms von der Leyen said the ECJ is the sole and ultimate arbiter of EU law and will have the final say on single market decisions.

She described the Stormont brake as something that would be an emergency mechanism that would hopefully not be needed.

 What does the EU think of the new deal?

Ms von der Leyen spoke highly of the efforts to reach a deal, calling it historic and one that opened a new chapter in UK-EU relations.

 When do the changes take effect?

The Prime Minister said that the new agreement would make a difference almost immediately, but beyond that we do not know the exact timeframe of the changes or whether we will see some form of transition to the new arrangements.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said the agreement to rewrite Northern Irelands Brexit arrangements opened a new chapter in relations between the UK and the EU.

Speaking alongside RIshi Sunak in Windsors Guildhall  a wedding venue for both actual and showbiz royalty  the commission president was clear that she had been able to form a more productive relationship with the Prime Minister than his predecessors in No 10.

The Windsor Framework will significantly reduce the burdens faced by people in Northern Ireland seeking goods and medicines on the same basis as counterparts in the rest of the UK.

In doing so, it rewrites the Northern Ireland Protocol which was signed, but subsequently disowned, by Boris Johnson

The warmth in the relationship between Ms von der Leyen and the man she called dear Rishi was in marked contrast to the strains which became apparent when Mr Johnson and his chief negotiator Lord Frost set about trying to rewrite the protocol.

In the building which saw the weddings of the King and his Queen Consort and Sir Elton John and David Furnish, Ms von der Leyen set out why she and Mr Sunak were able to deliver on an important commitment to each other.

Explaining how Mr Sunak had succeeded where his predecessors had failed, she said there had been a lot of goodwill.

In the context of shared problems  Ukraine and the fight against climate change  she said the pair realised the need to resolve the dispute between the UK and EU so they could stand shoulder to shoulder.

She said: We want the best solution for the people of Northern Ireland in the situation that we have right now.

So there was a very constructive attitude from the very beginning to solve problems to find solutions, practical solutions for everyday life, for people and businesses in Northern Ireland.

Thats what weve done. Weve jointly developed the solutions. It needed a lot of goodwill and knowledge and we have jointly agreed on that now.

Mr Sunak paid an enormous personal tribute to Ms von der Leyen for her vision in recognising the possibility of a new way forward.

Ms von der Leyen spoke under the watchful gaze of the portraits of dozens of former monarchs and was also granted an audience with the King as part of her visit to the UK  something which critics said risked politicising the royal family.

Despite the positive atmosphere of the joint press conference, there were still signs that old problems in the UK-EU relationship could resurface.

European Union laws will continue to apply in relation to the single market  although a Stormont brake will allow Northern Irelands politicians to raise concerns.

Ms von der Leyen said Brussels would also be consulted on UK laws which could impact on the EUs single market.

And the European Court of Justice will remain the sole and ultimate arbiter of EU law and single market issues.

But Ms von der Leyen hoped that through a process of consultation and dialogue, the use of emergency measures such as the Stormont brake could be avoided.
[February 26, 2023] Medtec China 2023 will be held on June 1-3, 2023, in Suzhou China

SHANGHAI, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, China's State Council issued Guidelines for Expanding Domestic Demand (2022-2035), which clearly specifies that China's medical device industry has entered the stage of accelerated demand growth. Meanwhile, the most recent COVID-19 prevention and control optimization policies have made it easier for overseas enterprises to participate in trade fairs held in China for economic and technological exchanges. Under these multiple favorable policies, Medtec China 2023 will be held at Hall B1G1 of Suzhou International Expo Centre on June 13, 2023, and Quality Expo China will also be held at simultaneously. At present, tens of thousands of R&D/procurement engineers from well-known medical device manufacturers, including Johnson & Johnson, Abbott, MicroPort, WEGO, Tuoren, Xinhua, Lifetech, Yinyi Biotech, Aohua Endoscopy, Lepu Medical, Venus Medtech, Genesis and HeartCare, have already pre-registered. Click here to apply for a free entry pass to join the must-attend medical device design and manufacturing sourcing trade fair and join the 40,000+ engineer community in China. It is time to return to the China market! 800+ Exhibitors Showcase with Innovative and Featured High-end Exhibits "Since 2021, the 17th edition of International Medical Device Design and Manufacturing Exhibition (Medtec China 2023) has been engulfed with delays related to pandemic challenges. Although we created online and offline activities at different scales to better serve the industry and customers, the industry still embrace great expectations and enthusiasm for the in-person Medtec China show. Almost 40,000 industry participants will be present at Medtec China 2023, and they are all looking forward to discussing new information technology and procurement initiatives over the three-day event. In-person exhibitions have irreplaceable advantages in the medical industry indeed. We welcome overseas industry participants to reconvene at Medtec China 2023." said Linc Cai, Project Director at Informa Markets. "Amid a high level of enthusiasm on the part of manufacturers, Medtec China will expand the exhibition area again in 2023 and provide high-quality business and trade opportunities and services for companies, as well as provide visitors with more diversified and innovative products, technologies and services." Medtec China 2023 will expand to an exhibition area of 36,000 m2 and draw 800+ exhibitors to display cutting-edge products in 21 key exhibit categories, such as R&D and Design Services, Automation, Materials, Tubing and Extrusion, Components, Electronic Components, Manufacturing Equipment and Surface Treatment. It has attracted leading enterprises, including Lubrizol, Celanese, Momentive, Fort Wayne, Elgiloy, Mikron, Ruhlamat, Nolato GW, Rosti, OGP, SP Medical, Quark-Med, Wiserscope, HnG, Trelleborg Sealing, and Yi Kang. This exhibition will also feature pavilions from Germany, the United States, Singapore, Europe, Japan, and other countries. If you are interested in attending Medtec China to reach consensus, strengthen collaboration, and seek mutual development in China, please click here to exhibit immediately. Categories represented in Materials, Components and Equipment Zone: Raw materials, form Supplied, adaptors, blades, clamping products, coplings and fittings, fasteners, gaskets, gauges, meters, counters, hinges and latches, etc. Representative companies include Lubrizol, Celanese, Momentive, Americhem, Acme Monaco, Pulse, Wytech, Fort Wayne, Tanaka Precious Metals, LX Precision, and Kindly.



Medtec China 2023 launches a special themed concept focused on advanced medical equipment design and manufacturing services. Categories represented here from application-specific integrated circuits, batteries, cables and cable assemblies, capacitors, connectors, crystals/oscillators/piezoelectrics to digital signal processors, diodes, displays, electrodes, embedded systems and EMI/RFI shielding. Exhibitors including Luphi Electronics, Foshan City Chengye Hardware Electric Appliance, Nisus, Hikmed Imaging, Lemo Electronics, RRC Power, Ojos, ATL Technology, Kitron and other medical electronics manufacturers will present up-to-date products, technologies, and solutions. Categories represented in IVD: Biochemicals and chemical reagents, filters, membranes, bioseparation equipment and supplies, assay system components, tools for molecular diagnostics, electronic and mechanical components and software, packaging and labeling materials and components, manufacturing equipment and supplies. GuYuan, HS Medical, Shanghai Marine Diesel Engine Research Institute, Carclo Technical Plastics, JT Mold, SJ S&P Mfg, Suzhou Welgwiyan Precision, Teamtechnik Maschinen und Anlagen, Beijing Zhuojie Yipin, Jiangsu JITRI Sioux and other enterprises have confirmed their participation.

Categories represented in Medical Packaging and Sterilization: Packaging equipment, packaging services, packaging materials and products, sterilization equipment and sterilization services, etc. Kingwills New Material, Berry Ace Packaging, Shanghai Puxiong Industrial, Suzhou Funway Sterile Packaging, Kangmingna Packaging, Audion Elektro, Beijing Antonito Medical, Beijing Dangs, and BillerudKorsnas AB. will have a presence at Medtec China 2023. The exhibition zones of Medical Packaging, Orthopedic R&D and Manufacturing, Testing, Metrology, Inspection and Calibration Equipment, Electronic Components, IVD and Super-precision Laser Machining, among other exhibition categories, are currently in high demand. Exhibit space is almost sold out. Please click here to grab what limited space there still is available or click here to view the 2023 exhibitor list. 100+ Trend-setting Education Sessions Held at three-day Conference; Industry Keynote Speakers Get Together at Medtec to Share Industry Highlights The "MDiT Forum and Regulation Summit 2023" will still focus on four dimensions regarding current Chinese regulation, quality, technology and markets. More than 80 speakers will be invited to deliver more than 100 speeches. All participants will undoubtedly gain a lot from the three days of in-depth instruction and discussions with peers. Click here to get the free pass to Technology Summit. The 80+ keynote speakers partly come from authorities and research institutes, including International Travel Health Association, Statistics of Medical Research & Biometric Center, Advanced Research Institute of China Food and Drug Administration, FDA International Program and Policy Analysis - Medical Devices, Clinical Pharmacology Center of Fuwai Cardiovascular Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences Research Institute, Shanghai Medical Products Administration, and Peking University. Other speakers are mainly from leading industrial enterprises, such as Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare, MicroPort, Thermo Fisher, Saint-Gobain, Coherent, Fanuc Robomachine, GF Machining Solutions, Henkel Loctite (China), Hantech, jMedtech, Tekni-Plex, and Starrag, will share their views on updated topics such as Advantages of Liquid Silicone Rubber LSR/Production Process LIM, Tekni-Plex Precision Medical Tubing Technology, Processing and Application in the Minimally Invasive Field, application of functional polymer material solutions, Trends in Minimally Invasive Delivery Systems and Tackling Complex Challenges, Optoelectronic Devices in the Application of Active Medical Equipment (Medical Power Supply). Click here to view the agenda of the MDiT Forum and Regulation Summit 2023. The Technology Summit will focus on topics such as materials, implantable and interventional medical devices, plastic molding, precision machining, 3D materials and technology application, packaging, and sterilization, and we expect more international industrial leaders to share their technologies and experiences at Medtec China 2023 and become industrial opinion leaders. Click here to ask for a promotion plan. The Online Platform Provides Customers with Business and Procurement Support throughout the Year Medtec China has an online procurement service platform- CMDM (www.cmdm.com). The cumulative number of website visitors since its launch in December 2019 adds up to almost 164,000. Procurement engineers can browse the information of nearly 1000 enterprises, easily target their favorite products, and conduct procurement consulting or transactions. Click here to enter the CMDM platform. In addition, the official website, customized email, live conference and other services also continue to provide Medtec customers with business opportunities and procurement support throughout the year. Click here to consult and customize more digital marketing solutions. Medtec China 2023 will be held at B1G1 Hall of Suzhou International Expo Centre on June 13, 2023. Full of joy and expectation, we look forward to the return of overseas visitors to Medtec China, presenting a more compelling and fruitful exhibition for customers and holding a long-awaited medical industry event in 2023. The Medtec China team will continue to deeply integrate the field of medical devices, explore new industrial trends, make innovations and optimize service efficiency, provide customers with efficient and first-class business services, boost the efficient connection between upstream and downstream industries, and live up to your long-term support and trust. Click to register or exhibit to attend Medtec China 2023. Join us with design and manufacturing engineers, directors, and executives from thousands of companies to find inspiration and realize cooperation. SOURCE Medtec China

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[February 27, 2023] Radisys Introduces ReachPoint Indoor Navigation and Geo-Location Services for Enterprises

Radisys Corporation, a global leader of open telecom solutions, today announced the availability of Radisys ReachPoint, a smart network-based geolocation platform that allows Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to deliver real-time geolocation service capable of reaching places where GPS may not be available, such as inside tall buildings. The solution enables Enterprises to get the location of any connected device without relying on GPS, using geospatial data from cell towers and Wi-Fi nodes. Radisys will be demonstrating new ways of monetizing location-based services using ReachPoint Geolocation service at Mobile World Congress Barcelona. Indoor navigation within large buildings like airports, concert venues, hospitals, shopping malls and office buildings has been an ongoing challenge within the industry. While many GPS services can help with navigation outdoors, they are often limited indoors where the signal can be blocked due to a building's physical structure. ReachPoint extends indoor navigation capability to places not served by GPS. ReachPoint's Bluetooth low energy (BLE) beacon-based technology provides a faster, more accurate indoor navigation tool that can be delivered as a standalone application or embedded as a software development kit (SDK) in existing applications. Radisys' ReachPoint provides a simple mechanism for mobile network operators (MNOs) to monetize their networks in new ways by offering geolocation services for enterprises. Radisys ReachPoint technology has proven savings of up to 25% for Enterprises by optimizing operations through asset tracking and indoor navigaion.



ReachPoint Navigation application creates a digital map of the building or space, enabling users to find their place of interest via voice guidance and reach their desired location using the shortest path. Building owners or event organizers can gain value-added insights such as heat maps of visitors, or rank and identify the most visited places to pinpoint new sales kiosks or information booth locations. Additionally, businesses can customize services based on user location, as well as monetize the data insights as a service for building tenants or other vendors. ReachPoint also provides enhanced security monitoring such as breach or trespassing alerts for certain areas to provide businesses with peace of mind. "Enterprises want mobile applications to report their physical location for multiple reasons such as fraud prevention, services customization, ensuring compliance with local laws and for IoT use cases," said Natasha Tamaskar, Head of Digital Endpoints Business and Global Marketing, Radisys. "Using Radisys ReachPoint, MNOs have additional opportunities to monetize their mobile networks by creating location insights for enterprises that also help those businesses find additional revenue-generating opportunities."

Experience ReachPoint Live at MWC Barcelona To see the ReachPoint demonstrations and learn more about Radisys' Reach portfolio or to meet with Radisys' open telecom experts at MWC Barcelona 2023, visit Stand 5B81 or contact [email protected]. To check the availability of ReachPoint in your region contact our team at [email protected] or visit the website at www.radisys.com/reach/reachpoint. About Radisys Radisys is a global leader in open telecom solutions and services. Its disaggregated platforms and integration services leverage open reference architectures and standards combined with open software and hardware, enabling service providers to drive open digital transformation. Radisys offers an end-to-end solutions portfolio from digital endpoints, to disaggregated and open access and core solutions, to immersive digital applications and engagement platforms. Its world-class and experienced network services organization delivers full lifecycle services to help service providers build and operate highly scalable and high-performance networks at optimum total cost of ownership. For more information, visit www.Radisys.com. Radisys is a registered trademark of Radisys. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005083/en/

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The United States condemns the Government of Nicaraguas decision to strip nationality from 94 of its citizens and to revoke the citizenship of 222 political prisoners who were released from custody earlier in February. These acts are inconsistent with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which provides that everyone has a right to a nationality, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a written statement. It marks another step backward for the Nicaraguan people and a further step toward solidifying an autocratic regime.

On February 9, 222 political prisoners, including Nicaraguan political and business leaders, religious actors, civil society activists, journalists, and students were released from prison and flown to the United States. They were welcomed on their arrival with medical and psychological care and legal assistance.

In Nicaragua, President Ortega labelled the released political prisoners terrorists. A judge read a statement saying they were guilty of actions that undermined Nicaraguas independence and sovereignty, and that they had been deported. More accurately, of course, as Vilma Nunez, president of the Nicaraguan Center for Human rights said, They want to call exile a deportation, which is absolutely arbitrary and prohibited by international human rights norms.

Shortly after, Nicaraguas Congress unanimously voted to strip the 222 of their citizenship. Days later, an appeals court justice declared an additional 94 Nicaraguan dissidents to be traitors, and they were also stripped of their property and citizenship. Among this group are prominent author Sergio Ramirez, leading human rights activist Vilma Nunez, and Catholic Bishop Silvio Baez.

Since massive street demonstrations broke out in Nicaragua in 2018 protesting the repressive rule of Daniel Ortega, his government has striven to stamp out independent voices and institutions. The decision to strip the nationality or citizenship from Nicaraguans, who seek to exercise their fundamental human rights, in order to erase and silence them, is a deplorable act. As Secretary of State Blinken said, Those who bravely defend democracy in Nicaragua will aways be citizens and patriots.

State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel told reporters, We remain steadfast in encouraging additional steps by the Government of Nicaragua to restore civil liberties, especially in the light of their unilateral decision to release the 222 political prisoners. Stripping them of their citizenship, he said, is a step in the opposite direction.
[February 27, 2023] DOCOMO Cooperating on Open RAN Initiatives with 5 Global Operators

NTT DOCOMO, INC., a longtime promoter of the Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) concept, announced today that the company is now cooperating with five global telecom operators: KT Corporation (KT) in South Korea, Vodafone Group Plc (Vodafone) in Europe, Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) in the Philippines, DISH Wireless (DISH) in the United States and Singtel in Singapore on Open RAN initiatives. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005031/en/ OREX (Open RAN Ecosystem Experience) (Graphic: Business Wire) KT and DOCOMO signed a memorandum of understanding in January 20221 to support Open RAN and are now verifying an Open RAN system. Smart successfully demonstrated Open RAN, a first in the Philippines. In addition, Vodafone and DOCOMO agreed in October 20222 to collaborate towards harmonizing mobile operator system integration and test processes. On February 3, the two firms published a white paper with a defined common test script. Also, DISH plans to evaluate the product performance and stability of Open RAN at the Shared Open Lab, DOCOMO's Open RAN verification environment in Japan. Singtel and DOCOMO agreed to evaluate Open RAN technologies and explore an Open RAN introduction. DOCOMO has also announced today that it has adopted the "OREXTM" (Open RAN Ecosystem Experience) brand to strengthen the support scheme for international telecom operators in delivering the Open RAN system. DOCOMO has been working with global vendors since 2021 to conduct technological collaboration. Global interest continues to grow regarding Open RAN, which uses open and standardized wireless base-station specifications to enable the devices and systems of multiple telecom vendors to be interconnected in mobile networks. Operators that so far have been constructing networks incorporating devices from just a single vendor are now facing technical and verification challenges in their efforts to implement Open RAN. DOCOMO, as the world's only company to have constructed networks implemented with multiple vendors since the 4G era, is leveraging its expertise to support the Open RAN efforts of operators worldwide. Vodafone, DISH, Singtel and DOCOMO will give a panel discussion entitled "On the Forefront of Open RAN Implementation" at MWC Barcelona 2023, the world's largest mobile-related exhibition being held in Barcelona, Spain from February 27 to March 2. Going forward, DOCOMO will continue to strengthen its cooperation with global partners under the OREX brand to make Open RAN a reality. 1 KT Corporation, NTT DOCOMO and Fujitsu Cooperate towards Test Facility Construction and Successful Interoperability Testing for Open RAN in Korea

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2022/0106_00.html

2 Vodafone and NTT DOCOMO sign MoU to cooperate to drive greater system integration and service efficiency in Open RAN

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2022/1025_00.html OREX is a trademark of NTT DOCOMO, INC. About NTT DOCOMO NTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 86 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/ Appendix 1 Overview of OREX Name OREX (Open RAN Ecosystem Experience) OREX Partners







1 AMD 2 Dell Technologies Japan Inc. 3 Fujitsu Limited 4 Hewlett Packard Japan, G.K. 5 Intel K.K. 6 Mavenir 7 NEC Corporation 8 NTT DATA Corporation 9 NVIDIA 10 Qualcomm Technologies 11 Red Hat 12 VMware K.K. 13 Wind River

Concept NTT DOCOMO and OREX partners are now building an Open RAN ecosystem around the world to supply new wireless communications with multi-vendor interconnectivity experiences. Appendix 2 Panel discussion at MWC Barcelona 2023 Title On the Forefront of Open RAN Implementation Date Monday, February 27, 2023 from 15:45 to 16:15 (local time) Venue Broadcast Studio, Hall 4, MWC Barcelona 2023 Speakers Mr. Sadayuki Abeta, OREX evangelist, NTT DOCOMO, INC.

Mr. Francisco Martin, Head of Open RAN, Vodafone Group Plc

Mr. Sidd Chenumolu, Vice President of Technology Development, DISH Wireless

Mr. Cheng Choon Si, VP of Technology, Strategy & Transformation, Singtel View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230226005031/en/

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Latest Kyoto Prize Laureates to Speak in San Diego at Free Public Symposium Hosted by UCSD and PLNU, March 15-17, 2023

UC San Diego and Point Loma Nazarene University will host the 22nd Kyoto Prize Symposium to celebrate the 37th annual laureates of the Kyoto Prize, Japan's highest private award for global achievement, during a unique series of commemorative events that are free and open to the public, March 15 to 17.

Click here, or visit https://kyotoprize-us.org/event-registration to reserve a seat at the Symposium's speaking events, featuring the latest Kyoto Prize laureates:

Technology: "Engineering Concepts Clarify Physical Law," by Dr. Carver Mead, Wed., March 15, 10:00-11:30 a.m.-PDT, at UC San Diego. Mead serves as Gordon and Betty Moore Professor of Engineering and Applied Science, Emeritus, at California Institute of Technology. He is renowned for pioneering contributions to the advancement of VLSI semiconductor technology, computer-aided design, and the revolutionary development of today's VLSI-based electronics industry.

Sciences: "Epidemiological and Evolutionary Dynamics of Pathogens in Time and Space," by Dr. Bryan T. Grenfell, Wed., March 15, 1:00-2:30 p.m.-PDT, at UC San Diego. Grenfell serves as Kathryn Briger and Sarah Fenton Professor of Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Public Affairs at Princeton University. He proposed phylodynamics as a new methodology to predict the infectious disease dynamics of RNA viruses by considering viral evolution, advancing our understanding of pandemic diseases like COVID-19.

Arts: "Indian Classical Music - Tradition and Beyond," by Dr. Zakir Hussain, Fri., March 17, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.-PDT, at UC San Diego. Hussain is a Grammy award-winning musician and master of the tabla, a percussion instrument dating back thousands of years. He is celebrated for opening new creative possibilities showcasing India's traditional music in collaboration with other distinguished artists of diverse musical genres worldwide.

For more information, click here or visit https://kyotoprize-us.org/about.







Photos: https://bit.ly/3XklxEQ / No password Credit: Courtesy of Inamori Foundation, UC San Diego

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005063/en/
[February 27, 2023] CPIC Successfully Holds the ESG Investment Forum of GBA to Jointly Create a New Situation for the Development of the Bay Area

HONG KONG, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On February 25, China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd. ("CPIC", "Company" or "Group"; share code: 02601.HK, 601601.SH, CPIC.LSE) was pleased to announce that the ESG Investment Forum of the Greater Bay Area of CPIC was grandly held at Guangzhou CPIC Financial Building and achieved complete success. With the theme of "responsible investment for green future", the forum invited local governments, regulatory authorities, industry associations, ESG experts and scholars and strategic partners of CPIC to meet each other to discuss the core concepts and practical experience of ESG investment, advise on the development prospects under the background of "double carbon", and witness a series of activities, such as the opening of the headquarters building of CPIC in the Greater Bay Area, and the signing of cooperation intention on green carbon science and technology fund in the Greater Bay Area. At the forum, Fu Fan, the President of CPIC, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Take the Road of Green Development and Be a Responsible Investor", comprehensively introduced the achievements of the Group's ESG investment, and proposed to continue to transform the development model, promote the ESG factor to be included into the whole process of the asset-side investment value chain, and explore a sustainable development path with the characteristics of CPIC. At the forum, all guests jointly witnessed the official opening of the headquarters building of CPIC in the Greater Bay Area. The headquarters building in the Greater Bay Area is a high-quality office building located in the Tianhe CBD of Guangzhou, with a superior geographical location. Locating here, the Group aims to actively respond to the national strategy and better serve the real economic and social development of the Bay Area. Relying on the headquarters building in the Greater Bay Area, the Group will strengthen asset-liability coordination, promote cross-subsidiary and inter-institutional resource sharing, actively introduce external brand enterprises and high-quality institutions to settle in, and strive to build a demonstration building for the symbiotic development of financial entities. Subsequently, CPIC signed a ooperation intention agreement with representatives of CICC on the green carbon science and technology fund in the Greater Bay Area. The target scale of the fund is as high as RMB10 billion, RMB3 billion of which is for the first phase. It mainly focuses on green energy, green transportation, green city, green manufacturing and other directions, and is expected to inject fresh force into the green transformation of the Greater Bay Area. The successful signing of the agreement of intent is also an important force for the Group to "enter Guangdong" as an insurance capital, and profound practice to follow "taking the path of green development", introduce the ESG management concept, and continue to increase the supply of green financial products.



As for the economic and social transformation of achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality which involves values concept, industrial structure, energy system, consumption mode and other aspects, this forum also held a wonderful round table dialogue, which brought together two important roles of physical enterprises and financial institutions. Under the theme of "green, opportunities, cooperation and innovation", participants shared the ESG investment philosophy and practical experience, unfolded wonderful dialogues and triggered hot discussions on how to strengthen ESG governance and help the transformation and upgrading as well as high-quality development of green industry in the Greater Bay Area. On the occasion of this forum, the 2022 CPIC Climate Change Response Report, which substantially shows the achievements of CPIC in the field of climate risk management, was also released. Subsequently, the Group will use high-tech risk service tools to make efforts to build a common and beautiful home through disaster prevention, risk reduction, product innovation and other methods.

In addition, the Shanghai State-owned Enterprises Greater Bay Area Party Building and Financial Services Alliance, jointly established by CPIC and Shanghai Industry, Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, Bank of Shanghai, Guotai Jun'an, Haitong Securities, and Huitianfu Fund, was officially launched. This alliance is a response to the call of "simultaneous aggregation" of the Party building of enterprises outside Shanghai initiated by Shanghai State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, is in line with the development trend of the financial industry, and takes a solid step of integrating into the Greater Bay Area, which may give full play to the advantages of Shanghai financial enterprises in the Greater Bay Area in terms of a large number of institutions, diversified business types and strong strength, aggregate banking, securities, insurance, funds and other service resources, and jointly serve the economic and social development of the Greater Bay Area with regional Party building as the linkage. Through the successful holding of this forum, CPIC and all sectors of the society talked about the ESG investment trend, and wrote a grand blueprint for jointly creating a new situation for the development of the Bay Area. On one hand, through sharing the development opportunities of the Bay Area and discussing the path of green development, CPIC has endowed the forum with a profound spirit of the times; on the other hand, it will help the Group accelerate the strategic layout in the Bay Area, enrich the connotation of ESG development, grasp the green development opportunities, and deepen cooperation and collaborative innovation, playing a strong role in promoting the high-quality development of the Greater Bay Area under the background of "double carbon". Kong Qingwei, the Chairman of CPIC said, "The Greater Bay Area is the main battlefield for the regional development of CPIC. The three major strategies have been implemented in the Bay Area market successively, creating a new situation for the Group's development in the Bay Area. In the future, the Group will continue to give full play to its professional advantages in insurance, and play a professional role in supporting industrial upgrading, cross-border financial services and promoting connectivity, make the "CPIC Service" take root in southern Guangdong, and contribute to the construction of a beautiful Bay Area." SOURCE China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd.

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[February 27, 2023] ITS Logistics Funding the Supply Chain & Transportation Management Program at The University of Nevada, Reno

ITS Logistics invests in the community and assists in providing potential solutions to the supply chain labor shortage

RENO, Nev., Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ITS Logistics, one of the fastest growing logistics companies in the United States, and the University of Nevada, Reno today announced the Supply Chain & Transportation Management Program at The College of Business. Committed to investing in the community and with a local presence in Reno, ITS fully funded the new academic program during a time when the supply chain industry is experiencing historical growth and labor shortages. This is a program that is for the industry and by the industry, said Mike Crawford, COO of ITS Logistics. ITS is intertwined with both the community of Reno and the success of the University of Nevada, and this program is designed to cultivate and support future supply chain leaders in an exciting time in the industry. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported last year that the manufacturing and transportation industries saw a combined opening of 1.3 million jobs. Overall, as of August of 2022, in the U.S. there were 5 million more job openings than there were unemployed people. Supply chain managers significantly contributed to that number of job openings, as they quit their jobs in 2021 at the highest rate since 2016. This resulted in the separation rate increasing by 28% last year alone. Despite these challenges, logistics made the U.S. News multifaceted list of the Best Business Jobs for 2022, coming in at number eight.



Northern Nevada is a hub for the transportation and logistics industry, continued Crawford. Global supply chain companies like FedEx, Amazon, Google, and UPS have locations here and 62% of graduates from the University of Nevada remain in Reno to contribute to the overall growth of this economy. ITS wants to be a part of increasing that number and encouraging the industry leaders to aid in being a resource of knowledge and professional expertise to the next generation. ITS will provide industry expertise in many areas including transportation, distribution, and technology for the supply chain & transportation management curriculum. The program is independently funded by ITS Logistics, and an Executive Advisory Board ensures that the curriculum of the program continues to remain aligned with relevant industry topics.

As a result of the contribution and input from ITS Logistics, we were able to work closely with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) to skill map the university classes to their specific certifications, said Robyn Brunscher, Director of Supply Chain & Transportation Management. When a student takes, for example, the transportation course, they are then fully prepared to take the CSCMP certification test. This is paid for in full by the university and students also obtain a CSCMP membership. These two attributes alone better prepare students for their transition into the industry upon graduating. The program also offers internship opportunities for enrolled students at companies like ITS Logistics, speaking engagements with industry professionals, and tours of some of the most profound logistics facilities. Courses in the program are taught by industry experts with first-hand professional knowledge in areas such as operations, big data analysis, analytics, marketing, and business development. To learn more about ITS Logistics and the Supply Chain & Transportation Management Program at The College of Business, visit the University of Nevada, Reno. Classes will begin to be offered in the spring of 2023. About ITS Logistics

ITS Logistics is a premier Third-Party Logistics company that provides creative supply chain solutions with an asset-lite transportation division ranked #23 in North America, the #11 drayage and intermodal provider, a top-tier asset-based dedicated fleet ranked #39, and innovative omnichannel distribution and fulfillment services. With the highest level of service, unmatched industry experience and work ethic, and a laser focus on innovation and technologyour purpose is to improve the quality of life by delivering excellence in everything we do. www.its4logistics.com Media Contact

Amber Good

LeadCoverage

[email protected]



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[February 27, 2023] CRN Recognizes Acronis on the 2023 Data Center 50 List

BURLINGTON, Mass., Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Acronis, a global leader in cyber protection, today announced that CRN, a brand of The Channel Company, has named Acronis to its Data Center 50 list for 2023. The CRN Data Center 50 list highlights the most prominent data center providers and suppliers that work with their channel partners to ensure business-facing data centers are running at peak performance and maximum efficiency.

It is an absolute honor to be featured on CRNs reputable list of data centers, said Alex Zinin, Chief Cloud Infrastructure Officer, Acronis. Acronis is actively expanding its presence in Cyber Cloud data centers around the globe. By operating within data centers at different locations, Acronis is able to introduce our comprehensive cyber protection solutions to organizations of all sizes, in all regions. With the continuous growth of our data center footprint, were capable of preserving and protecting the most critical files for both enterprises and consumers. The Data Center 50 list serves as an essential resource that solution providers can take advantage of when building stand-out data center solutions. From the worlds largest providers of servers, storage, power management and network infrastructure to colocation and public cloud giants, CRN breaks down 50 key data center players in the market based on the breadth and types of services offered to partners, the companys overall influence on the channel, and its total impact on the data center market. CRNs 2023 Data Center 50 list recognizes industry-leading suppliers that expertly support data center growth within the IT channel landscape and are helping reshape the digital world, said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. These companies continue to prove that their commitment toward ongoing data center innovation is unparalleled, as are the services and support they offer to their communities. To learn about Acronis recognition on the CRN Data Center 50 lit, check out the latest blog here or visit: https://www.acronis.com/en-us/blog/posts/acronis-named-to-crn-data-center-50-list-for-2023.



About Acronis

Acronis unifies data protection and cybersecurity to deliver integrated, automated cyber protection that solves the safety, accessibility, privacy, authenticity, and security (SAPAS) challenges of the modern digital world. With flexible deployment models that fit the demands of service providers and IT professionals, Acronis provides superior cyber protection for data, applications, and systems with innovative next-generation antivirus, backup, disaster recovery, and endpoint protection management solutions powered by AI. With advanced anti-malware powered by cutting-edge machine intelligence and blockchain based data authentication technologies, Acronis protects any environment - from cloud to hybrid to on premises - at a low and predictable cost. Acronis is a Swiss company, founded in Singapore. Celebrating two decades of innovation, Acronis has more than 2,000 employees in 45 locations. Acronis Cyber Protect solution is available in 26 languages in over 150 countries and is used by 16,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses.

About The Channel Company

The Channel Company enables breakthrough IT channel performance with our dominant media, engaging events, expert consulting and education, and innovative marketing services and platforms. As the channel catalyst, we connect and empower technology suppliers, solution providers and end users. Backed by more than 30 years of unequalled channel experience, we draw from our deep knowledge to envision innovative new solutions for ever-evolving challenges in the technology marketplace. www.thechannelcompany.com Follow The Channel Company: Twitter, LinkedIn , and Facebook.  2023 The Channel Company, LLC. CRN is a registered trademark of The Channel Company, LLC. All rights reserved. The Channel Company Contact:

Natalie Lewis

The Channel Company

[email protected] Acronis Media Contact:

Karl Bateson

[email protected] A graphic accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/af35ecaf-efc1-4fec-9636-c73ee178d4f3



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[February 27, 2023] Origami Risk Gains Momentum in New Aite-Novarica Report on P&C Policy Administration Systems

Origami Risk, the industry-leading risk, safety, and insurance Software as a Service (SaaS) technology firm, is rapidly gaining industry recognition for its multitenant core solutions policy administration capabilities for property & casualty insurance carriers, pools, MGAs, TPAs, brokers, and agents. The new Aite-Novarica Property/Casualty Policy Administration Systems Report (compiled in February) groups Origami among "contenders," a designation for providers with "substantial customer experience and momentum." Origami Risk's policy administration solution moved to the "contender" category from its position in the "new entrant" category in the previous (2021) report. This reflects the growth of Origami Risk's P/C insurer client base and expanding market presence in the insurance industry. Last year, Origami also advanced to the "contender" category for claims management systems in the Aite-Novarica P/C Claims Management Systems Vendor Analysis Report (compiled in June 2022). "As part of our research, we examined several key features carriers cite for selecting a core P/C policy administration system, including installed base, new client count, completeness of the suite, digital capabilities, configurability and ease of integration, among other factors," said Martina Conlon, head of P&C Practice at Aite-Novarica. "Origami Risk has the momentum to be considered a 'contender' in the market and offers policy administration features on a SaaS multitenant platform, which is a plus for many buyers." "Now that cloud is firmly established as the mainstream option, an evolutionary shift is underway toward cloud multitenancy," the report stated, adding: "New core systems have emerged that are built from the ground up to be multitenant." The report describes Origami's policy administration solution as " built on a cloud-based, multitenant platform" with "out-of-the-box configurations for NCCI workers' compensation and ISO lines of business, plus improvements to its billing capabilities with integration to third-party digital payment solutions." In addition, Origami Risk cited the following as its key differentiators for P&C carriers, MGAs, program administrators, risk pools, agents, and brokers: Cloud-based, single instance, multitenant SaaS platform that enables quarterly automatic updates.

Unified platform and database without the need for multiple integrations for policy processing, rating, underwriting, billing, and claims functions.

Low-code configurable, flexible modules with an administrative toolset implemented to insurers' specifications without the need for custom development.

Core solution for ISO and NCCI product deployment and ongoing maintenance improve speed to value for carrier and MGA clients.

Access to update rate tables, rating formulas, and associated communications and policy documents via user-friendly interfaces that allow users to configure options for limits, deductibles, and other factors.



Origami Risk offers a full suite of end-to-end, integrated SaaS solutions for policy, rating, billing, loss control and claims administration, reporting and analytics, along with a comprehensive digital engagement experience for all internal and external stakeholders.

According to the Aite-Novarica Group, the report provides an overview of the property and casualty (P/C) policy administration solution (PAS) market. This report is of interest to insurers' senior business executives and IT professionals looking for insights into the P/C PAS market landscape. The report is also relevant for PAS providers looking to understand the direction of the market and evolving buyer needs. The report profiles 42 stand-alone core PAS and provides an overview of their key features and capabilities, client base, lines of business supported, strategic partnerships, key differentiators, and product roadmap. To read Origami's review and profile in the Aite-Novarica P/C Policy Administration Report, visit: https://www.origamirisk.com/resources/industry-reports/aite-novarica-report-2023. About Aite-Novarica Group

Aite-Novarica Group is an advisory firm providing mission-critical insights on technology, regulations, strategy, and operations to hundreds of banks, insurers, payments providers, and investment firms-as well as the technology and service providers that support them. Comprising former senior technology, strategy, and operations executives as well as experienced researchers and consultants, our experts provide actionable advice to our client base, leveraging deep insights developed via our extensive network of clients and other industry contacts. About Origami Risk - Core Solutions Division

Origami Risk provides integrated SaaS solutions that simplify insurance, risk, and safety for insurers, managing general agents (MGAs), program administrators, third party claims administrators (TPAs), risk pools, brokers and more. Origami Risk delivers its highly configurable and completely scalable integrated insurance core system, risk management and safety solutions from a secure, multi-tenant platform accessible via web browser and mobile app. Visit origamirisk.com or contact Origami at [email protected]. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005280/en/

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[February 27, 2023] Advisor360 Names Enterprise Software Veteran Mat Mathews, General Manager from Amazon/AWS, as Senior Vice President, Product

Advisor360, a leading provider of integrated technology for broker-dealers and other wealth managers, has announced that Mat Mathews has joined as Senior Vice President, Product. In this newly created role, the enterprise software veteran will oversee the company's Product Management and UX teams, reporting directly to Darren Tedesco, President. Prior to joining Advisor360, Mathews was a General Manager of the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Transfer Family, where he oversaw all aspects of the managed secure file transfer service for AWS cloud customers. He was also Vice President and General Manager of Composable Infrastructure BU and MS Azure Stack Hub for Hewlett Packard Enterprise. "We're excited to leverage Mat's deep expertise in software, data integration, e-commerce, and his overall experience working at Amazon Web Services, a company that has one of the best SDLCs -- software development life cycles -- anywhere. He will play a critical role in helping our clients on their path to achieving digital transformation," said Tedesco. "His addition is another example of how Advisor360 is committed to being the best technology partner in the sector, bolstered by our unique combination of world-class enterprise software and wealth management industry expertise." Earlier in his career, Mathews co-founded Plexxi, Inc., an innovative software-defined networking start-up that was later sold to Hewlett Packard Enterprise. In addition, he held management positions in the technology enterprise space for companies such as Crossbeam Systems, Convergent Networks, Xylan (which was acquired by Alatel), and Bay Networks.



"I'm enthusiastic about the opportunity to build an enterprise software product team that defines and builds the world's best software for the wealth management industry," said Mathews. "I'm here to ensure that Advisor360 continues to make the advisor and home office more productive through better use of solutions that address specific business needs, such as seamless reporting or digital onboarding. I am passionate about building great teams and delivering great software to our clients." Mathews' appointment follows Advisor360's recent acquisition of the digital onboarding capabilities and related wealth management assets of Vancouver-based technology firm Agreement Express. CEO Napolitano has signaled previously that the company is focused on building out its platform in 2023 through strategic partnerships, as well as elevating and executing on its service, support, and product offering for future and current clients. Advisor360 is already one of the biggest software companies in wealth management, servicing millions of households and tens of thousands of advisors.

Mathews is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst and has a Strategic Planning Certificate from the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley. About Advisor360 Advisor360 builds, integrates, and delivers technology for wealth management firms. The company's award-winning integrated and open architecture SaaS platform brings a connected digital wealth experience to financial advisors, their clients, and the home office so that firms can drive better outcomes and innovate quickly. Advisor360 clients benefit from timesaving capabilities and streamlined workflows when it comes to portfolio and performance reporting, financial planning, insurance, proposal generation, trading and model management, digital onboarding, document management, analytics, and compliance. The company's proprietary Unified Data Fabric (UDF) is the foundation of its platform, weaving together shared services and pre-built integrations that work with existing technology stacks. The company is headquartered in Weston, Massachusetts, with offices in Bengaluru, India; Belfast, Northern Ireland; and a remote workforce in Canada. Today, three million households with $1 trillion in assets benefit from the connected Advisor360 experience. To learn more, visit www.advisor360.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005270/en/

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[February 27, 2023] Stefanini Group partners with Microsoft to integrate simultaneous translation platform into Microsoft Teams

Integrating Microsoft Azure AI, Voicero is now available through Microsoft Azure Marketplace and AppSource SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Millions of meetings are held daily by people who speak different languages, with varying levels of fluency, which can compromise efficient and natural communication. Considering the need for professionals to express their best ideas in any language across the world, Woopi, Stefanini Group's Artificial Intelligence (AI) company, created and launched an AI-based simultaneous translation platform, Voicero. The product is integrated with leading collaboration platform Microsoft Teams, and is available through Azure Marketplace and AppSource. Voicero allows real-time voice translation, meaning a professional can speak Korean and others can hear it in the language of preference. "Skilled professionals often look less talented by not speaking a specific language during a meeting. We used our expertise in AI disciplines to create a productthat's simple and easy to understand, as if there was an interpreter in the meeting. We believe Voicero will expand the possibilities of personal and professional communication in dozens of languages. Through our distribution agreement with Microsoft, we're confident the tool will become accessible to anyone, anywhere on the planet," says Alex Winetzki, Woopi CEO and Director of R&D at Stefanini Group.



Voicero underwent dozens of tests and improvements over the course of a year, initiated by Woopi's internal Research and Development team and subsequently extended to Stefanini Brazil and global collaborators. The proofs of concept aimed to ensure excellence on three fronts: Presenting the solution to some customers and partners to analyze the real interest in the product.

Ensure value delivery and measure whether the tool has brought benefits in breaking down language barriers, using experience and assertiveness of the bot.

Knowing the potential of Voicero and allowing the tool to become scalable, available and resilient for large volumes of use. "Voicero shows Brazil's incredible skill developing AI solutions and tools. In the last seven years, we've made a jump in R&D at Stefanini. Currently, about 6 percent of the company's global revenue is directed to innovation projects and new offerings developed collaboratively with customers," says Marco Stefanini, founder and Global CEO of Stefanini Group.

About Stefanini Stefanini is a global group of Brazilian origin with 35 years of experience in the technology market, focusing on assisting customers in the process of digital transformation in their business. With the purpose of "Cocreating solutions for a better future", the group has been recognized in several awards for its innovative DNA and impact on results. It operates on the following fronts: Consulting (Technology and Business Agility), Analytics & IA, Banking & Payments, Cybersecurity, Manufacturing (Industry 4.0) and Digital Marketing. Present in 41 countries and with more than 30,000 employees, Stefanini is named as the fifth most internationalized Brazilian company  the first in the technology sector, according to the Dom Cabral Foundation (FDC) Ranking. For more information, click here. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stefanini-group-partners-with-microsoft-to-integrate-simultaneous-translation-platform-into-microsoft-teams-301756656.html SOURCE Stefanini

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[February 27, 2023] Hush, the Cyber-Privacy Company, Wins a 2023 WealthBriefing Award

Hush, the cybersecurity company that specializes in digital privacy management, has been named a winner in the 2023 WealthTech Americas Awards. The WealthTech Awards are part of a global program run by WealthBriefing and its sister publications WealthBriefingAsia and Family Wealth Report, encompassing all of the world's major wealth management centers. The awards were designed to showcase outstanding organizations that have demonstrated innovation and excellence in the last year. "We are excited to be recognized for our work protecting wealth management organizations and their clients," said Mykolas Rambus, Hush Co-Founder, and CEO. "Never before have affluent individuals been targeted for identity theft, wire fraud, sextortion, and other cyberattacks as they are today. We look forward to continuing this important work and setting the standard in the future." ClearView Financial Media's CEO, and Publisher of WealthBriefing, Stephen Harris, was first to extend his congratulations to all the winners. "The organizations and individuals who triumphed in these awards are all worhy winners, and I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to the winners and to those who have put so much work into each winning submission. These awards were independently and expertly judged solely on the basis of entrants' submissions and their response to a number of specific questions, which were answered by focusing on the client experience rather than purely quantitative performance metrics. That is a unique, and I believe, compelling feature. These awards recognise the very best operators in Americas' wealth management, with 'independence', 'integrity' and 'genuine insight' the watchwords of the judging process - such that the awards truly reflect excellence in Americas' wealth management."



About Hush Hush is a premium privacy service built to protect businesses and their employees against social engineering, impersonation, and phishing attacks. Powered by the most comprehensive AI technology, our platform identifies and removes sensitive information that puts businesses at risk. Hush protects members by giving them the power to remove digital vulnerabilities before they become real-time threats. For more information, visit GoHush.com

About ClearView Financial Media Ltd ClearView Financial Media was founded by Chief Executive, Stephen Harris in 2004, to provide high quality 'need to know' information for the discerning private client community. London-based, but with a truly global focus, ClearView publishes the WealthBriefing group of newswires, along with research reports and newsletters, while also running a pan-global thought-leadership events and awards programme. For more information, visit ClearView Publishing.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005648/en/

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[February 27, 2023] ASTRAZENECA ANNOUNCES MAJOR INVESTMENT IN ONTARIO'S LIFE SCIENCES SECTOR

Investment brings 500 scientific and high-tech jobs to the Greater Toronto Area MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - AstraZeneca is pleased to announce it is bringing 500 highly-skilled scientific and high-tech jobs to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in a major expansion of its research footprint in Canada. The investment will contribute to AstraZeneca's Research & Development Hub (R&D) in Mississauga, which focuses on leading global clinical studies in areas including breast, lung and prostate cancer, COVID-19, and chronic kidney disease. It also includes the creation of a new Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease Development Hub, which focuses on rare disease research. The decision to invest in Canada, and Ontario specifically, is a testament to the network of world-class universities, hospitals, and research centres in the GTA and southern Ontario, and the diverse scientific talent pool that exists in the region. AstraZeneca values the Ontario government's recent introduction of the province's first-ever life sciences strategy, as well as its commitment to grow the biomanufacturing footprint in the province and foster local innovation to improve healthcare. Additionally, the Federal government's Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy further strengthens Canada's position as a globally competitive player with an integrated research ecosystem focused on delivering the best of science and innovation. "Our investment in the AstraZeneca R&D Hub and Alexion Development Hub will play a critical role in the development of new and innovative medicines aimed at treating, preventing and, in the future, potentially even curing complex diseases like cancer and rare diseases," said Kiersten Combs, President, AstraZeneca Canada. "We're pleased to see the steps that Governments at both the provincial and federal level have taken to create a more supportive environment for the biopharmaceutical industry, and although we know there is more work to do, we look forward to our continued collaboration to help improve the time for Canadian patients to access new medicines and build a more sustainable and resilient healthcare system." The Mississauga-based R&D Hub has doubled in size since 2019 and is currently leading more than 120 oncology and biopharmaceutical global clinical studies, involving patients in 50+ countries. From specialists in digital health and data management, to quality assurance and clinical scientists, the people filling the diverse range of new roles will all be contributing to advancing the understanding of investigational compounds that may one day become life-changing medicines for some of the most devastating conditions. "To deliver better healthcare, it's important to invest in our public, universal system  and it's also important to continue rebuilding our biomanufacturing capacity and investing in research and development," said The Rt. Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. "That's exactly why we're here today: we're positioning Canada as a world leader in the sector, delivering better health outcomes for Canadians, and creating good jobs now and into the future"



"In order to protect Canadians' health, our government has taken every action possible to be equipped with the best tools possible. That's why we have worked closely with companies like AstraZeneca over the years," said Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada. "This investment shows that our efforts and hard work in the Canadian health sector are paying off by attracting major new investments from innovative global health leaders. We're proud to see the results of our Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy, whilst creating hundreds of well-paying jobs in Mississauga." "I couldn't be more thrilled to welcome this investment from AstraZeneca as they reaffirm their confidence in Ontario's economy and our world-class workers," said Premier Doug Ford. "While our province and the world continue to face economic uncertainty, we're working hard to attract good-paying jobs and game changing investments from companies in a wide range of sectors including the automotive, manufacturing and life science industries."

"Mississauga could not be more thrilled that AstraZeneca has chosen to invest and grow much-needed research and development capacity in our city," said Bonnie Crombie, Mayor of Mississauga. "Mississauga is proud to be the second largest Life Sciences hub in the country, and we are invested in the growth of this sector through our dedicated Life Sciences Strategy. I would like to thank AstraZeneca for this investment that will not only create highly-skilled jobs, strengthen innovation and R&D, but save lives through global research and the development of cutting-edge treatments for rare diseases." "Research in rare and ultra-rare diseases presents unique and significant challenges that require continuous innovation to deliver meaningful medicines for patients and their families," said Christina Archer, Vice President, Development Operations and Canadian Site Head at Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease. "This milestone investment in our Development Hub is a demonstration of our commitment to rare disease patients globally, including the 3.2 million Canadians living with a rare disease, roughly two-thirds of them children." About AstraZeneca Canada AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a focus on the discovery, development, and commercialization of medicines that transform lives, with a core scientific focus in the areas of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic (CVRM) disease; Oncology; Rare Disease; Respiratory & Immunology; and Vaccine & Immune Therapies. AstraZeneca operates in more than 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. AstraZeneca Canada employs more than 1,200 people across Canada, with the majority of its employees located at its head office and clinical research hub in Mississauga, Ontario. The company is one of Canada's leading R&D contributors, investing $135.6M in Canadian R&D in 2021. AstraZeneca was recognized for Best Workplace Culture in 2022 by the Canadian HR Awards and has been designated a Top Employer in the GTA for nine consecutive years. For more information, please visit the company's website at www.astrazeneca.ca. About Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, is the group within AstraZeneca focused on rare diseases, created following the 2021 acquisition of Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. As a leader in rare diseases for 30 years, Alexion is focused on serving patients and families affected by rare diseases and devastating conditions through the discovery, development and commercialization of life-changing medicines. Alexion focuses its research efforts on novel molecules and targets in the complement cascade and its development efforts on haematology, nephrology, neurology, metabolic disorders, cardiology and ophthalmology. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Alexion has offices around the globe and serves patients in more than 50 countries. Quotes "Through Taking Life Sciences to the Next Level, Ontario's life sciences strategy, our government is building a more competitive Ontario with a stronger life sciences sector. AstraZeneca's transformative investment and new global clinical research centre will create hundreds of new jobs, while helping to ensure that our province remains a global leader in innovation and the life sciences sector. Thank you, AstraZeneca, for choosing Ontario."  Vic Fedeli

Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade "AstraZeneca Canada's decision to significantly expand its research footprint in Canada is a perfect example of why it's critical for governments to recognize the value of the life sciences sector and implement policies that enable it to grow. This new investment in scientific and high-tech jobs will help build a skilled workforce to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the local life sciences sector and contribute to the development of medical innovations to benefit all Canadians."  Pamela Fralick

President, Innovative Medicines Canada "Invest Ontario congratulates AstraZeneca on this significant new investment which will drive innovation and increase the capacity for clinical trial management in Ontario. Invest Ontario is committed to attracting investments that further accelerate the growth of Life Sciences and solidify our position as a global leader in the industry."  Trevor Dauphinee

CEO of Invest Ontario "With cancer, chronic kidney diseases, COVID-19, and rare diseases affecting millions of people, this is a timely and important investment from AstraZeneca and Alexion. The provision of jobs and clinical studies in the aforementioned areas is a remarkable boost for life sciences in Ontario. We applaud this investment and its significant impact for the province's economy and for patients worldwide."  Jason Field

President & CEO of Life Sciences Ontario SOURCE AstraZeneca Canada Inc.

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Its been two years since Burmas military seized power from a democratically elected government and violently disrupted the countrys hard-fought, decades-long democratic progress.

Since then, the military regime has plunged the country into political, economic, and humanitarian disaster, and continues to wage a brutal campaign against the Burmese people. Over 3,000 have been killed; nearly 17,000 detained; and more than 1.5 million displaced.

On February 1, the regime announced it will extend the state of emergency in the country for at least six months, thereby ensuring its grip on power and delaying any possibility of holding free or fair elections.

State Department Spokesperson Ned Price denounced the regimes decision, saying it will prolong the militarys illegitimate rule and the suffering it inflicts on the country. He deplored the regimes plan for so-called elections, which will not be representative of the countrys people.

At a press briefing, State Department Counselor Derek Chollet noted that any election the regime might have  will have no chance of being free or fair given that the regime has imprisoned or intimidated nearly all potential contenders. He emphasized the determination of the United States to deny the regime international legitimacy, and, in coordination with allies, to continue to impose on it political and economic costs.

To that end on January 31, the United States announced additional sanctions on six Burmese individuals and three entities, including the senior leadership of the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, arms dealers, regime leaders and their business cronies. Also sanctioned was the Union Election Commission, which the regime has manipulated to advance its flawed elections.

In a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken noted that to date, the U.S. has sanctioned 80 individuals and 32 entities, to deprive the regime of the means to perpetuate its violence and to promote the democratic aspirations of Burmas people.

He made clear that in addition to increasing costs on the regime, the United States will also continue to provide critical humanitarian aid to the Burmese people and will vigorously support the prodemocracy movement in Burma.

As State Counselor Chollet said, the United States will not waver from its support for the people of Burma as they bravely voice their aspirations for democracy, for the rule of law, for justice, and the respect of human rights.
[February 27, 2023] HILGERS GRABEN PLLC EXPANDS DISCOVERY GROUP, ADDS PARTNER HARRY DORCY

DENVER, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hilgers Graben PLLC is excited to announce that attorney Harry Dorcy has added his expertise to the firm's talented Discovery group. Prior to joining Hilgers Graben, Harry led the discovery practice group at Wheeler Trigg O'Donnell in Denver, Colorado. He received his law degree from Washington University in St. Louis, one of the top 20 law schools in the country. His extensive experience with big data discovery allows him to craft efficient, cost-effective, and defensible discovery solutions for his clients. As a skilled programmer, he can create the kind of custom software solutions that eliminate hundreds of man-hours of work. Harry focuses on digital forensics and structured data analytics: the discovery of the hidden data available in every computer system. He has successully deposed forensics experts and has led technical discovery projects that revealed unsuspected case-cracking data buried beneath the more common documents exchanged during discovery. Committed to staying on the cutting edge of this technology, he is thrilled to join a team that recognizes that leveraging the full available data should be a cornerstone of every client's discovery gameplan.



"We are delighted to have Harry joining us," said Carrie Dolton, head of Hilgers Graben's Discovery group. "Not only is he a perfect fit for the exceptional document review analysis our clients expect, but his forensic expertise broadens our service offerings and maximizes our firm's value proposition at all stages of discovery." Added firm owner Heather Hilgers, "We know how rare it is to find someone who combines Harry's specialized skill set and first-in-class professionalism, so we feel very fortunate to have him on our elite discovery counsel team."

About Hilgers Graben PLLC Hilgers Graben PLLC is an elite nationwide litigation and discovery counsel firm specializing in complex commercial and intellectual property litigation, discovery counsel services, and trademark services. Hilgers Graben uses common-sense business principles to provide high-value legal services while keeping rates sane for clients  a business model and cultural approach that have created significant traction in the marketplace. The firm has nearly 140 professionals nationwide, including top attorneys it has recruited from elite firms around the country. Hilgers Graben was named a "Best Law Firm" for 2022 and 2023 by U.S. News and World Report and included among the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America four times, including for 2022. For more information, please visit www.HilgersGraben.com or contact [email protected]. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hilgers-graben-pllc-expands-discovery-group-adds-partner-harry-dorcy-301756882.html SOURCE Hilgers Graben PLLC

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[February 27, 2023] Protelion to showcase innovative cyber solutions at GISEC Global 2023 in Dubai

BERLIN, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Protelion, a world-class cybersecurity provider to Manufacturing, Energy, Critical Infrastructure, Enterprises and Government will exhibit at GISEC Global 2023 on March 16  18th in Dubai and showcase its Secure Communications Solution. Protelion is expanding its network of customers and partners in the Middle East and Africa by delivering solutions for Network Security, Secure Communication, Industrial / IoT security based on Zero Trust, powerful encryption and great performance. Protelion's unique point-to-point approach provides true end-to-end encryption of all traffic. The Protelion solutions encrypt traffic within the LAN itself, making them the ultimate defense against insider threats. Their innovative key management method uses pre-shared symmetric keys and has no handshakes and no certificates. It provides reliable connectivity and absolute protection from Man-in-the-Middle attacks. As one of the largest businesses-sourcing platforms in the MENA region for nearly a decade, GISEC is an influential cyberseurity exhibition that brings together senior decision makers and cyber experts from both the private and public sector.



"We are pleased to build upon our success and expand our growth in the MENA region. GISEC provides us with an important platform to meet new potential customers and business partners to discuss how our solutions can solve their critical cyber challenges." said Josef Waclaw, CEO of Protelion GmbH, Berlin. At GISEC, Protelion will showcase its Secure Communications Solution that uses the strongest available encryption while providing maximum convenience, functionality and usability. It seamlessly combines GDPR compliant secure VoIP, Chat, Group Chat and Text in one easy to use app. The multi-platform app works across smart phones, tablets or desktops for maximum convenience and productivity.

Vist Protelion at GISEC at booth SP68 in hall 4. About Protelion Protelion understood the need to redefine security. Its Security Platform combines greater security, flexibility, and performance by seamlessly protecting multi-faceted and distributed networks. Protelion solutions support network segmentation; Clients can quickly and effectively secure their existing legacy systems by overlaying Protelions solutions to achieve significant security improvement with minimal disruption. Additional information on the company is available at: https://protelion.com/solutions/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/protelionllc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@protelion Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2007823/Protelion.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2007824/Protelion__Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protelion-to-showcase-innovative-cyber-solutions-at-gisec-global-2023-in-dubai-301756883.html SOURCE Protelion GmhH

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[February 27, 2023] Huawei Cloud at MWC 2023: Unleash Digital

BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ -- Mobile World Congress (MWC 2023) kicks off this year, and Huawei Cloud is there to share how it serves as the cloud foundation for an intelligent world. The ICT products and solutions pioneer is an integral part of the annual event through keynote speeches, exhibits, and other activities. Jacqueline Shi, President of Huawei Cloud Global Marketing and Sales Service, delivered a keynote speech entitled "Unleash Digital with Everything as a Service", where she launched multiple new services and solutions such as Landing Zone and Cloud on Cloud. "We hope to provide reliable, secure, and sustainable services for our customers, partners, and developers, with everything done on the cloud." said Ms. Shi. Innovate for Greater Market Presence KooVerse, the global Huawei Cloud infrastructure, delivers a premium cloud experience with just 50 ms latency. Demanding services such as real-time audio and video, gaming, and online education are now agile and efficient. So far, KooVerse has 78 availability zones (AZs) in 29 Regions, and serves customers in more than 170 countries and regions. Landing Zone is a sustainable, scalable multitenancy solution to automate B2B services for carriers. The solution offers layered cloud resource management, identity and permissions design, data boudaries, compliance audit, and financial management. It helps enterprises build a lean IT governance system that coordinates people, finance, and things.



Cloud Container Instance (CCI) is a serverless container service that allows users to run containerized applications without creating or managing cloud servers or underlying resources. With CCI, even a ten-fold increase in traffic is no longer an impact to services or systems. The Pangu series of AI models cover drug development and computer vision (CV) applications. Pangu models are pre-trained using hundreds of billions of parameters, and proven effective in more than 100 use cases in more than 10 industries, such as healthcare, electricity, and mining.

Inspire New Growth with Carriers To help carriers expand into the enterprise market, Huawei Cloud releases the Cloud on Cloud solution. Carriers now make the most of the services, technologies, ecosystems, and sales resources of Huawei Cloud, together with their own industry-leading networks, to fuel digital transformation. Access to one-stop cloud service operations through resale, dual branding, and sole branding is customizable to their own needs. Think Cloud Native, Act Cloud Native Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) and Huawei Cloud launched the European branch of Cloud Native Elite Club (CNEC) at the event. CNEC is a global cloud native community jointly established by CNCF, China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), and Huawei Cloud. CNEC branched out for the first time to the Asia Pacific in September 2021, and has now arrived in Europe. This local member circle gathers the top minds in the industry, sparking more cloud native innovations to boost local digital economy. Stay Open and Work Closer Huawei Cloud held an award ceremony for the Huawei Cloud Developer Competition in Europe, a flagship developer campaign. Huawei Cloud will also sign strategic cooperation agreements with carriers and partners, such as Indonesia XL and Italy TIM, to help them build their own capabilities. 2022 has been a year of progress for Huawei Cloud. In terms of industry recognition, Huawei Cloud was named in Garter Magic Quadrant for Cloud Infrastructure and Platform Services (CIPS) in October 2022. In terms of global infrastructure, Huawei Cloud launched new Regions in Indonesia and Ireland, with new ones in Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and other places to come this year. For more information, visit the Huawei Cloud website: https://www.huaweicloud.com/intl/en-us/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/huawei-cloud-at-mwc-2023-unleash-digital-301756893.html SOURCE HUAWEI CLOUD

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[February 27, 2023] John Hartman Appointed to Board of Directors for Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation

John Hartman, Chief Investment Officer at CaliberCos Inc., (Caliber) a fully integrated alternative asset manager and investment sponsor, has been named to the Board of Directors for Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation. Located in Payson, Ariz., Whispering Hope is a camp facility that provides children who have special needs with a place to do things they never thought possible, where disabilities are the norm, and a place of acceptance and respect. Hartman will serve on Whispering Hope's development group where he will help spearhead fundraising efforts for the organization. "I'm thrilled to be joining this great organization where I can utilize my expertise to help further the mission of Whispering Hope," said Hartman. "The team at Whispering Hope is dedicated to the well-being of children, offering them a place to forget about everything else and just be kids. I look forward to assisting them in these efforts and helping them to expand further." At Whispering Hope, adapted traditional camp activities, including archery, arts and crafts and sports, are blended with animal interactions and equine-facilitated programs to create an inclusive atmosphere for everyone. Whispering Hope sits on a 45-acre ranch that was designed and built specifically to accommodate children with special needs. Campers are able to enjoy specially designed equipment like adapted saddles used with a wheelchair monting ramp, a splash pad with aquatic wheelchairs, wheelchair swings, and more. The camp facility was designed in collaboration with Arizona State University's College of Architecture & Environmental Design, and Phase 1 construction of the Camp Village was completed in 2005. The camp can accommodate up to 164 campers per session.



"We are excited to welcome John to the team," said Mary Clark, Executive Director of Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation. "He truly has a heart for our mission. We have ambitious goals over the coming years and I'm confident John will help us reach them." About Caliber Companies

Caliber is a vertically integrated alternative asset management firm whose purpose is to build generational wealth for investors seeking to access opportunities in middle-market assets. Caliber differentiates itself by creating, managing, and servicing proprietary products, including middle-market investment funds, private syndications, and direct investments which are managed by our in-house asset services group. Our funds include investment vehicles focused primarily on real estate, private equity, and debt facilities. We market our services through direct sales to private investors, wholesaling to investment advisers, direct sales to family offices and institutions, and through in-house client services. Additional information can be found at Caliberco.com and CaliberFunds.co. About Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation Whispering Hope Ranch Foundation is a nonprofit organization that improves the lives of children with special needs through the wonder of camp, the beauty of nature and the power of the human-animal connection. Serving children living with any developmental, medical, physical, or emotional disability, Whispering Hope Ranch is the only camp facility in Arizona designed and built expressly for them. Learn more at www.whisperinghoperanch.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005779/en/

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[February 27, 2023] The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz Announces Investigation of Catalent, Inc. (CTLT) on Behalf of Investors

The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces an investigation of Catalent, Inc. ("Catalent" or the "Company") (NYSE: CTLT) on behalf of investors concerning the Company's possible violations of federal securities laws. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. On August 29, 2022, Catalent disclosed that demand for its COVID-related products was facing substantial headwinds. On this news, Catalent's stock price fell $7.42, or 7.4%, to close at $92.28 per share on August 29, 2022, thereby injuring investors. Then, on September 20, 2022, The Washington Post reported that the release of Catalent's COVID vaccines had been delayed due t improper sterilization at one of the Company's key facilities. On this news, Catalent's stock price fell $8.09, or 9.3%, over the next two consecutive trading days to close at $79.06 per share on September 22, 2022.



Then, on November 1, 2022, Catalent disclosed regulatory issues at its key facilities that were negatively impacting its financial results, revealing that the Company's quarterly earnings had declined to zero. On this news, Catalent's stock price fell $20.83, or 31.7%, over two trading days to close at $44.90 per share on November 2, 2022. Then, on November 16, 2022, Catalent revealed that it was carrying approximately $400 million in excess inventory. On this news, Catalent's stock price fell $6.84, or 14%, over two trading days to close at $42.07 per share on November 17, 2022.

Then, on December 8, 2022, GlassHouse Research published a report alleging that Catalent had been overstating its revenues by $568.2 million in violation of GAAP. The report detailed the rapid increase in Catalent's contract asset and inventory balances, declining customer deposits, executive turnover, and recent scrutiny of the Company's revenue accounting. On this news, Catalent's stock price fell $1.68, or 3.6%, to close at $45.54 per share on December 8, 2022, thereby injuring investors further. Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW. If you purchased Catalent securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005848/en/

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[February 27, 2023] Calloquy Welcomes New Advisory Board Members, Experts in Legal Tech, Data Privacy, and Law

New Advisory Board Members to Lend Their Expertise to the Remote Litigation Platform's Latest Ventures ATLANTA, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Calloquy, PBC, the first remote litigation platform designed for litigators, is proud to announce the five inaugural members of its Advisory Board. The five individuals, seasoned professionals at the intersection of technology and law join Calloquy's Advisory Board as the Atlanta-based company delivers its platform and secure court reporting services to leading law firms. David Carter, Calloquy's CEO and Founder introduced the new Board members, stating: "We have curated our Advisory Board very deliberately for scope and depth of background, business expertise, and commitment to innovation. They have each founded or been at the vanguard of truly innovative technology, believe in its transformative power, and have shepherded other tech companies from start-up to growth. We know they will provide invaluable insights to Calloquy as we implement our go-to-market strategy." "We are thrilled that these five exceptional thought leaders have joined us," said Carter. "I have known some of them personally for decades and have been continually astounded by their ability to not only get things done but get them done quickly and efficiently and with the same ingenuity the Calloquy team brings to our platform. They add insight and decades of achievement to our extremely dedicated team." Advisory Board member Mollie Nichols, while new to the board, has known Carter for decades. She was eager to talk about their history. "I was attracted to Calloquy first and foremost due to its innovative and inspiring leader, David Carter. Knowing David as long as I have as one of his former law professors, I have watched him grow over the past two decades as a lawyer, a leader in social entrepreneurship, and an innovator using technology for the betterment of the way law is practiced in the United States," she said. "In law school, David began his journey by diving deep into legal technology and how it could enhance the way lawyers use technology to assist their clients while working with the Courtroom 21 Project and by taking my Legal Technology seminar. He was also committed to improving our legal system so that courts are fair and accessible to all, irrespective of wealth and status. It is not surprising to me that David is the visionary to launch a virtual litigation platform to allow people to participate in legal proceedings remotely in a manner that is secure and efficient." Calloquy's new Advisory Board members are: Elliot Ginsburg : Mr. Ginsburg is the Vice President of Legal and Messaging Strategy and executive team member at Postscript, a high-growth technology company which "Forbes" recently named to its "most likely to be a unicorn" list. Mr. Ginsburg spent four years as a Venture Capital attorney in the Silicon Valley office of Fenwick & West, advising several, high-profile, high-growth companies through substantial venture funding rounds, including notable clients AppLovin, Bolt, Doctor on Demand, Forward and Nurx, totaling more than $1.5 billion in aggregate. Mr. Ginsburg is also an angel investor and advisory to multiple technology and life sciences companies.

Mr. Ginsburg is the Vice President of Legal and Messaging Strategy and executive team member at Postscript, a high-growth technology company which "Forbes" recently named to its "most likely to be a unicorn" list. Mr. Ginsburg spent four years as a Venture Capital attorney in the Silicon Valley office of Fenwick & West, advising several, high-profile, high-growth companies through substantial venture funding rounds, including notable clients AppLovin, Bolt, Doctor on Demand, Forward and Nurx, totaling more than in aggregate. Mr. Ginsburg is also an angel investor and advisory to multiple technology and life sciences companies. Ellen Gregg : Ms. Gregg launched and led the Case Management Facility (CMF) at Woble Bond Dickinson, retiring from the firm at the end of 2022. Hundreds of other law firms have relied on the CMF to deliver technical solutions to manage multi-jurisdictional high-stakes litigation. The CMF represents companies in the Fortune 100, Fortune 500, and Financial Times Global 50 facing significant exposure, often in product liability litigation. Ms. Gregg served on the Executive Committee and as firm Vice Chair at Womble Bond Dickinson and worked directly with general counsel in Fortune 500 companies to develop and implement custom legal knowledge, and case/matter management systems that integrate compliance and security. She serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Advisors for the Elon University School of Law.

Ms. Gregg launched and led the Case Management Facility (CMF) at Woble Bond Dickinson, retiring from the firm at the end of 2022. Hundreds of other law firms have relied on the CMF to deliver technical solutions to manage multi-jurisdictional high-stakes litigation. The CMF represents companies in the Fortune 100, Fortune 500, and Financial Times Global 50 facing significant exposure, often in product liability litigation. Ms. Gregg served on the Executive Committee and as firm Vice Chair at Womble Bond Dickinson and worked directly with general counsel in Fortune 500 companies to develop and implement custom legal knowledge, and case/matter management systems that integrate compliance and security. She serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Advisors for the School of Law. Hans Haglund : Mr. Haglund has spent decades helping law firms increase revenue by connecting firms with data and people. Mr. Haglund co-founded Manzama, the content integration and analytics software now used by nearly half of AmLaw100 law firms for their client intelligence. Mr. Haglund also served as Vice-President of Business Development for Foundation Software Group. He has led multiple business development, marketing, sales, and pursuit teams at several of the world's largest law firms as a C-level executive, including at Eversheds Sutherland, Blank Rome LLP, and Patton Boggs LLP.

Mr. Haglund has spent decades helping law firms increase revenue by connecting firms with data and people. Mr. Haglund co-founded Manzama, the content integration and analytics software now used by AmLaw100 law firms for their client intelligence. Mr. Haglund also served as Vice-President of Business Development for Foundation Software Group. He has led multiple business development, marketing, sales, and pursuit teams at several of the world's largest law firms as a C-level executive, including at Eversheds Sutherland, Blank Rome LLP, and Patton Boggs LLP. Nicole Morris : Ms. Morris is a Professor at Emory University School of Law and he inaugural Director of Emory's Innovation & Legal Tech Initiative and the Program Director of TI:GER  (Technological Innovation: Generating Economic Results), an innovative technology commercialization program wherein law students work with tech innovators to transform promising research into economically viable results. Prior to Emory , Nicole practiced patent law for over 18 years in large and mid-sized law firms including Kilpatrick Stockton and Parks IP LAW. Nicole was also Managing Patent Counsel for the Coca-Cola Company where she was responsible for the development and implementation of Coca-Cola's global intellectual property strategy and worked closely with outside counsel on domestic and foreign patent prosecution matters. She also worked as an engineer for 3M and Eli Lilly and has over 25 years of working with technology commercialization.

Ms. Morris is a Professor at School of Law and he inaugural Director of Innovation & Legal Tech Initiative and the Program Director of TI:GER (Technological Innovation: Generating Economic Results), an innovative technology commercialization program wherein law students work with tech innovators to transform promising research into economically viable results. Prior to , Nicole practiced patent law for over 18 years in large and mid-sized law firms including and Parks IP LAW. Nicole was also Managing Patent Counsel for the Coca-Cola Company where she was responsible for the development and implementation of Coca-Cola's global intellectual property strategy and worked closely with outside counsel on domestic and foreign patent prosecution matters. She also worked as an engineer for and Eli Lilly and has over 25 years of working with technology commercialization. Mollie Nichols : Ms. Nichols is the CEO of Redgrave Strategic Data Solutions LLC, which builds "big data" solutions for law firms and corporate legal departments. Ms. Nichols has been at the forefront of law and technology for decades as a litigator, law professor, and law firm leader. Prior to joining Redgrave Data, Mollie served as the Head of Advanced Client Data Solutions at Hogan Lovells, where she was responsible for developing the global business model for client data technology services. For her innovative work at Hogan, Mollie was recognized as one of five innovators driving radical change in law firms by the Financial Times Innovative Lawyers Special Report. Before Hogan, Mollie led eDiscovery at Goodwin & Proctor and was a partner at Redgrave LLP. She has been an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Texas , a Special Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas . She has also developed and taught Digital Discovery & Evidence and a Legal Technology seminar, both the first of their kind, at William & Mary Law School .



Other Advisory Board members echoed this. Ms. Nichols opined, "Having experienced trial, mediations, and arbitrations remotely during the pandemic with the limited functionality the tools had that were better for a remote meeting than questioning a witness or going to a breakout room during a mediation, it is exciting to rely on Calloquy for a more in person-like experience." Ms. Morris said, "I was excited to join the Advisory Board because Calloquy is a novel startup being the first virtual meeting platform actually built for litigation. It allows litigators to seamlessly integrate the court reporting services needed for depositions and other legal proceedings. As one fully entrenched in the legal tech arena, I know something special when I see it."

Brie Buchanan, Vice President & Chief Legal Officer for Calloquy, commented "[t]he fact that these five accomplished individuals are teaming up to help guide Calloquy's continued growth is a testament to our shared commitment to create positive change in the legal system and to the clear need for continued innovation in the legal sector." For more information on Calloquy, its Advisory Board, and its work, visit: www.Calloquy.com. Calloquy is an Atlanta-based public benefit company (PBC) with 60+ employees. Calloquy is headquartered in Atlanta with offices in Dallas, Texas and Tustin, California. ABOUT CALLOQUY Calloquy is the first virtual legal proceedings platform intentionally built for the way litigation is practiced now. Its technology and court reporting services empower attorneys to conduct and manage legal proceedings more effectively and securely, while increasing productivity and reducing costs. The company is helping to shape The Next Era of Litigation by combining legal industry-specific videoconferencing technology, world-class security, highly professional court reporting services, and an access-to-justice social mission. Calloquy is a Public Benefit Corporation, and its commercial litigation clients fuel that mission by enabling the company to provide free platform access to legal service organizations and pro bono cases. Media Contact :

Lee Allum

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/calloquy-welcomes-new-advisory-board-members-experts-in-legal-tech-data-privacy-and-law-301757117.html SOURCE Calloquy, PBC

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[February 27, 2023] Quaker Houghton Appoints Jeffrey L. Fleck as Chief Supply Chain Officer

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Quaker Houghton (NYSE: KWR) today announced that Jeffrey L. Fleck has joined the Company as Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer effective February 27, 2023. Mr. Fleck is responsible for leading the global end-to-end supply chain organization. Andy Tometich, Chief Executive Officer and President stated: "I am pleased to welcome Jeff to Quaker Houghton. He brings extensive leadership capabilities and supply chain expertise to optimize and strengthen our global footprint, operations and processes and further enable the Company to execute on our long-term growth strategy." Prior to joining Quaker Houghton, Mr. Fleck most recently served as Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer for Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products Company from 2016 to 2023. From 2010 to 2015, Mr. Fleck was Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain and R&D Officer at Zep, Inc. Prior, he also held varius supply chain management leadership positions at The Clorox Company, American Home Products, and Cargill Incorporated.



About Quaker Houghton:

Quaker Houghton is the global leader in industrial process fluids. With a presence around the world, including operations in over 25 countries, our customers include thousands of the world's most advanced and specialized steel, aluminum, automotive, aerospace, offshore, container, mining, and metalworking companies. Our high-performing, innovative and sustainable solutions are backed by best-in-class technology, deep process knowledge and customized services. With approximately 4,600 employees, including chemists, engineers and industry experts, we partner with our customers to improve their operations so they can run even more efficiently, even more effectively, whatever comes next. Quaker Houghton is headquartered in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, located near Philadelphia in the United States. Visit quakerhoughton.com to learn more.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/quaker-houghton-appoints-jeffrey-l-fleck-as-chief-supply-chain-officer-301756625.html SOURCE Quaker Houghton

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[February 27, 2023] GigCapital5, Inc. Confirms Receipt of Sponsor Funds to Extend Period of Time to Consummate Business Combination and for Additional Working Capital

GigCapital5, Inc. ("GigCapital5" or the "Company") (NYSE: GIA.U; GIA; GIA.WS) announced that GigAcquisitions5, LLC (the "Sponsor") has funded the trust account maintained with Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company (the "Trust Account") with an additional $160,000 payment. In consideration for the deposit, the Company has amended and restated the existing unsecured interest free promissory note to include the additional loan amount, so the aggregate principal amount under such promissory note together with similar deposits made on September 26, 2022, October 26, 2022, November 28, 2022, December 27, 2022, and January 25, 2023 was increased to the total of $960,000. Such principal amount will be repaid in connection with the closing of GigCapital5's initial business combination. As a result of the deposits into the Trust Account, the period of time that GigCapital5 has to consummate a business combination has been extended by a month to March 28, 2023. In addition, on February 27, 2023, the Company amended and restated the existing working capital promissory note issued to the Sponsor to include the additional loan amount of $350,000, so the aggregate principal amount under such working capital promissory note was increased to the total of $675,000. The promissory note is non-interest bearing and may be converted at the Sponsor's election upon the consummation of the initial business combination into units identical to the private placement units issued in connection with the Company's initial public offering at a price of $10.00 per unit. About GigCapital5 GigCapital5 is a blank check company, also commonly referred to as a special purpose acquisition company, or SPAC, formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. While GigCapital5's efforts to identify a target business may span many industries, the focus of GigCapital5's search is for prospects within the technology, media and telecommunications, aerospace and defense, advanced medical equipment, intelligent automation and sustainable industries. GigCapital5 was sponsored by GigAcquisitions5, LLC, which was founded by GigFounders, LLC, each a member entity of GigCapital Global, and formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, recapitalization, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. On December 8, 2022, GigCapital5 entered into a Business Combination Agreement (the "Business Combination Agreement") with QTI Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware corporation and wholly owned subsidiary of GigCapital5 ("Merger Sub"), and QT Imaging, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("QT Imaging") (the transactions contemplated by the Business Combination Agreement, the "Business Combination"). Pursuant to the terms of the Business Combination Agreement, Merger Sub will merge with and into QT Imaging (the "Merger"), with QT Imaging as the surviving company in the Merger (the "Surviving Corporation"), and after giving effect to the Merger, the Surviving Corporation will be a wholly owned subsidiary of GigCapital5, which will be renamed as QT Imaging Holdings, Inc. ("QTI Holdings"). Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The expectations, estimates, and projections of the businesses of GigCapital5 and QT Imaging may differ from their actual results and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Any statements contained herein that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. Words such as "expect," "estimate," "project," "budget," "forecast," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "may," "will," "could," "should," "believes," "predicts," "potential," "continue," and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, expectations of the management of QT Imaging with respect to the business and prospects of QT Imaging ad the QTscan and other products of QT Imaging, the benefits of the proposed Business Combination, the plans, expectations and intentions of QT Imaging and GigCapital5, the satisfaction of the closing conditions to the proposed Business Combination, the timing of the completion of the proposed Business Combination and the future performance of QT Imaging, including the anticipated impact of the proposed Business Combination on this performance. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially from the expected results. Most of these factors are outside of the control of GigCapital5 and QT Imaging and are difficult to predict. Factors that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: (1) the ability of GigCapital5, QT Imaging and QTI Holdings to issue equity or equity-linked securities in connection with the proposed Business Combination or in the future, (2) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the parties following the announcement of the proposed Business Combination and the Business Combination Agreement; (3) the inability to complete the proposed Business Combination, including the risk that any regulatory approvals or the SEC's declaration of the effectiveness of the Proxy Statement are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect QTI Holdings or the expected benefits of the proposed Business Combination or due to failure to obtain approval of the stockholders of GigCapital5 and QT Imaging or other conditions to closing; (4) the amount of redemption requests made by GigCapital5's stockholders; (5) the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on (x) the parties' ability to consummate the proposed Business Combination and (y) the business of QT Imaging and QTI Holdings; (6) the receipt of an unsolicited offer from another party for an alternative business transaction that could interfere with the proposed Business Combination; (7) the inability to obtain or maintain the listing of QTI Holdings' common stock on the New York Stock Exchange or any other Exchange following the proposed Business Combination; (8) the risk that the proposed Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations as a result of the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination; (9) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition, the ability of QTI Holdings to grow and manage growth profitably and retain its key employees; (10) costs related to the proposed Business Combination; (11) changes in applicable laws or regulations; (12) the demand for QT Imaging's and QTI Holdings' services together with the possibility that QT Imaging or QTI Holdings may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (13) risks and uncertainties related to QT Imaging's business, including, but not limited to, the ability of QT Imaging to increase sales of its output products in accordance with its plan; (14) risks related to the rollout of QT Imaging's business and the timing of expected business milestones; (15) the effects of competition on QT Imaging's business; (16) changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political, and legal conditions; and (17) other risks and uncertainties included in (x) the "Risk Factors" sections of the most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC by GigCapital5 and (y) other documents filed or to be filed with the SEC by GigCapital5. The foregoing list of factors is not exclusive. You should not place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. GigCapital5 and QT Imaging do not undertake or accept any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in their expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based.



Additional Information and Where to Find It In connection with the proposed Business Combination, on February 14, 2023, GigCapital5 filed with the SEC the Registration Statement, including a preliminary Proxy Statement to be distributed to holders of GigCapital5 Common Stock in connection with GigCapital5's solicitation of proxies for the vote by GigCapital5's stockholders with respect to the Business Combination and the other matters as described in the Registration Statement and a prospectus relating to the offer of the securities to be issued to the stockholders of QT Imaging in connection with the Business Combination. After the Registration Statement has been filed and declared effective, GigCapital5 will mail a definitive Proxy Statement, when available, to its stockholders. Investors and security holders and other interested parties are urged to read the Proxy Statement, any amendments thereto and any other documents filed with the SEC carefully and in their entirety when they become available because they will contain important information about GigCapital5, QT Imaging and the proposed Business Combination. Such persons can also read GigCapital5's Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K for more information on the security holdings of its officers and directors and their respective interests as security holders in the consummation of the Transactions described in this press release. The Proxy Statement and Registration Statement and GigCapital5's other reports can be obtained, without charge, at the SEC's web site (www.sec.gov) and on GigCapital5's website at www.gigcapital5.com.

Participants in the Solicitation GigCapital5, QT Imaging, and their respective directors, executive officers and other members of their management and employees, under SEC rules, may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies of GigCapital5 stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination. Investors and security holders may obtain more detailed information regarding the names, affiliations and interests of GigCapital5's directors and officers in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, which was filed with the SEC on March 31, 2022. Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies to GigCapital5's stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination will be set forth in the Proxy Statement for the proposed Business Combination when available. Information concerning the interests of GigCapital5's and QT Imaging's equity holders and participants in the solicitation, which may, in some cases, be different than those of GigCapital5's and QT Imaging's equity holders generally, will be set forth in the Proxy Statement relating to the proposed Business Combination when it becomes available. GigCapital5 stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the Proxy Statement carefully when it becomes available before making any voting or investment decisions. No Offer or Solicitation This press release will not constitute a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the Business Combination. This press release will also not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor will there be any sale of securities in any states or jurisdictions in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities will be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005782/en/

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[February 27, 2023] Spain Grants Globalstar Terrestrial Authorization

Globalstar, Inc. (NYSE American: GSAT), today announced that Spain has authorized the company to provide complementary terrestrial services, over its mobile satellite spectrum including LTE and 5G compliant services via Band 53/n53. This marks a major step forward in the convergence of satellite and mobile terrestrial services to connect and protect both lives and property globally. "Spain joins the 10 other countries globally, and is the first in Europe, to authorize this innovative approach which ensures greater connectivity solutions," said L. Barbee Ponder, Globalstar General Counsel, and Vice President of Regulatory Affairs. "Spain is leading the way in Europe on this important initiative, as we continue to work with other European administrations to bring the same communication solutions to their countries." On behalf of everyone at Globalstar, we thank the Spanish Ministry for the Economy and Digital Transformation, the Government of Castilla La Mancha, the U.S. Embassy in Mdrid, Telecom CLM, and our in-country team of dedicated professionals for this great achievement.



Telecom CLM is a valued partner and has provided support to host Globalstar's new ground station as the anchor tenant of its international teleport at Alcazar de San Juan. The new Spanish ground station joins three others in Europe (France, Greece, and Estonia), to ensure robust service quality and redundant coverage for mobile satellite services throughout the European continent, as well as north Africa. About Globalstar, Inc.

Globalstar empowers its customers to connect, transmit and communicate in smarter ways - easily, quickly, securely, and affordably - offering reliable satellite and terrestrial connectivity services as an international telecom infrastructure provider. The company's LEO satellite constellation assures a secure data transmission for connecting and protecting assets, transmitting key operational data, and saving lives - from any location - for consumers, businesses, and government agencies across the globe. Globalstar's terrestrial spectrum, Band 53, offers carriers, cable companies, and system integrators a versatile, fully licensed channel with a growing ecosystem to improve their customers' wireless connectivity. In addition to SPOT GPS messengers, Globalstar offers next-generation IoT hardware and software products for efficiently tracking and monitoring assets, processing smart data at the edge, and managing analytics with cloud-based telematics solutions to drive safety, productivity, and profitability. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005947/en/

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[February 27, 2023] DCG Acquisitions, A Dave Cantin Group Company, Closes Fletcher Jones Auto Group Acquisition of Largest Toyota Dealership in Carson, California

The Dave Cantin Group (DCG), one of the largest automotive industry financial advisory services companies specializing in buy/sell transactions, announced that DCG Acquisitions, one of the leading mergers and acquisitions firms, closed the transaction of Carson Toyota-largest Toyota dealership in Carson, California- to Fletcher Jones Automotive Group. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005943/en/ Photo credit: Carson Toyota This deal continues DCG's 2023 merger and acquisition momentum, which began the year already in motion with 24 acquisitions totaling 65 franchises in the works (including several large auto groups). "The transaction is a strong indicator of the competitive opportunities, and high dealership valuation we anticipate seeing throughout 2023," says George Pero, DCG Acquisitions' National Vice President of Sales, who represented both buyer and seller in the transaction.



Under the new ownership, the dealership will be known as Fletcher Jones Toyota of Carson. Carson Toyota has been in operations for 49 years. "As a third-generation operator and COO of our management team, I am excited to welcome the entire Fletcher Jones Toyota of Carson staff to the Fletcher Jones Automotive Group family," says Fletcher Jones III, COO of Fletcher Jones Automotive Group. "We will continue to offer the same great service their customers have enjoyed for many years plus offer an entire new suite of benefits as part of being a member of the Fletcher Jones Automotive Group of stores."

This acquisition will be the 16th new car dealership for the Fletcher Jones Automotive Group spread across California, Nevada, Illinois, and Hawaii. "We look forward to passing the baton to the Fletcher Jones organization to continue our legacy with Carson Toyota," says Dan Pennington, Co-Owner of Carson Toyota. We are confident they will excel with customers and employees as they bring the Carson Toyota family under their wing." "Given our nearly 50 years of business, it was important to us to find the 'right' buyer," Pennington adds. "George and DCG Acquisitions did an amazing job throughout this transaction. He worked closely with us until the perfect match was identified." "This is our first closed transaction with George Pero and DCG Acquisitions. George was involved in virtually every aspect of the process ensuring a timely close that worked for all parties on the transaction. I highly recommend George and the DCG team to anyone currently considering a buy/sell today," Jones adds. Fletcher Jones Sr. launched 77 years ago with his first store in downtown Los Angeles and, with the help of the current management team, has grown to become one of the most respected and world renown platforms in the country. About Dave Cantin Group The Dave Cantin Group (DCG) headquartered in New York City, services the automotive industry nationwide. As a holding company, DCG is comprised of DCG Acquisitions, the Mergers & Acquisitions arm of the organization, DCG Acquisitions in one of the largest automotive M&A firms in the automotive industry, specializing in automotive buy/sell transactions; DCG Capital provides capital-focused services for automotive dealers and industry service providers; DCG Media curates and syndicates automotive-specific media; and DCG Giving, the organizations nonprofit committed to funding lifesaving child and adolescent cancer research and treatment. To learn more, visit www.davecantingroup.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005943/en/

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Oregon State honor roll

CORVALLIS, Ore.  Students who have made the Scholastic Honor Roll Fall 2022 have been announced by Oregon State University.

A total of 12,220 earned a B-plus (3.5) or better to make the listing. To be on the Honor Roll, students must carry at least 6 graded hours of course work.

Students on the Honor Roll include:

Addie J. Comstock of Carlin, Freshman, Marketing.

Keely K. Creel of Elko, Senior, Civil Engineering.

Tyrell Verley of Spring Creek, Junior, Computer Science.

As one of only three land, sea, space and sun grant universities in the nation, Oregon State serves Oregon and the world by working on todays most pressing issues. More than 35,000 students come from across the globe, and programs operate in every Oregon county.

Utah Tech honor students

St. GEORGE, Utah  The following students are among the 10 percent of the Utah Tech student body who earned Presidents List honors for the Fall 2022 semester:

Cynthia Bautista of Jackpot.

Jesus Gonzalez of Wendover.

On behalf of the faculty and staff, congratulations to all Utah Tech students who made the 2022 Fall semester honor roll list, said Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost Michael Lacourse. Your hard work and persistence have paid off and you should be proud of your achievement. Keep up the great work and we hope to see your name on the honor roll for the spring 2023 semester.

Utah Tech University is a premier open-enrollment teaching institution that offers more than 250 academic programs at one of the lowest tuition costs in the Western United States.

Licata earns degree from Maryland

ADELPHI, Maryland  Jessie Margherita Licata of Spring Creek, earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from University of Maryland Global Campus in fall 2022.

Licata was one of more than 7,600 students worldwide who earned degrees from UMGC in the fall. Graduates came from all 50 states, five U.S. territories, and 18 countries.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary, University of Maryland Global Campus was established in 1947 to serve adults in the workforce. Today, UMGC enrolls some 90,000 students annually.
Quick answer . . . A LOT.

But here's what nobody else in the media is telling locals . . . Or the rest of the nation for that matter . . .

Toxic chemicals are only the 2nd worst thing aboard American rail lines.

"Radioactive materials are produced and transported by railroad by the Department of Defense for use in submarines and in other national defense circumstances. Radioactive materials are also produced and used by private industry for medical and energy needs, among others."

This isn't a big secret . . . Just something that most of us don't like to think about very often.

Consider this headline on the department of energy website posted just last year:

New Railcar Designed to Escort Spent Nuclear Fuel Departs for Final Phase of Testing

And so . . .





The disaster in East Palestine is tragic and horrible but it's small potatoes compared to any potential mishap with nuke material that's currently touring the nation by rail.





And we got thinking about all of this amid constant hype about the real estate boom in the West Bottoms . Trains go back and forth throughout the day in that part of town and . . . As we've seen . . . Safety isn't always assured.





Don't worry . . . Rail lines also trek through local suburbs and come very, very close to some of the nicer places in JoCo and The Northland.





The bottom line . . .





KANSAS CITY PROVES EXCEPTIONALLY VULNERABLE TO RAILROAD ACCIDENTS!!!

And yet . . . None of this is really much of a concern to our elected leaders who have dutifully repeated partisan talking points on this issue but seemingly have forgotten about the danger right in their backyard.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

How often do toxic derailments happen? Why are chemicals transported by train? Here's what to know Weeks after a major train derailment and the controlled explosion of chemicals in East Palestine, Ohio, residents have been encouraged to return home. But many questions remain about how the train derailed and what the lingering chemical exposure could be in residents' air and water.Toxic train derailments don't happen very often, but they can have serious consequences for human and environmental health when they do.

'Like putting a puzzle together': CDC arrives in Ohio to investigate health risks from toxic train derailment At a busy McDonald's drive-thru in East Palestine, Ohio, a team of epidemiologists, environmental health scientists and others stood outside Saturday handing out flyers. Each flyer has a survey with a QR code giving information on how to contact health officials.

Trump visits East Palestine train derailment site, calls response a 'betrayal' EAST PALESTINE, Ohio (AP) - Former President Donald Trump on Wednesday described the federal response to the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, as a "betrayal" as visited the village amid mounting frustration from residents and local leaders more than two weeks after the disaster.

'SNL' spoofs Trump's visit to East Palestine, says the water looks 'beautiful': 'It's wearing makeup' NBC's " Saturday Night Live" mocked Donald Trump's visit to East Palestine, Ohio, following the recent train derailment and chemical spill. In a fake C-Span press conference in the Feb. 25 episode's cold open, Trump (played by James Austin Johnson) commented on the city's "beautiful" water and the bright side of the toxic waste.

Erin Brockovich urges East Palestine residents to document health conditions as some diagnosed with bronchitis Environmental activist Erin Brockovich urged residents in East Palestine, Ohio to documents any health effects they are experiencing following the devastating train derailment that was carrying hazardous chemicals. Some residents this month say they have been diagnosed with bronchitis and other conditions that doctors and nurses suspect are linked to the chemical exposure.

Opinion | Republicans don't know what the Secretary of Transportation does House Republicans want answers from Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg regarding his department's response after a Norfolk Southern Railway train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, earlier this month. In a letter released Friday, House Oversight Chairman James Comer of Kentucky and other GOP members of the committee said that the Department of Transportation "needs to provide an explanation for its leadership's apathy in the face of this emergency."

Transport of East Palestine soil, water to other states prompts backlash Officials in Texas and Michigan are raising concerns about the water and soil transported from the East Palestine train derailment into their jurisdictions. Why it matters: Their comments come as East Palestine residents report diagnoses of bronchitis and other conditions which they attribute to the crash.

GOP leaders, residents demand answers on toxic waste from Ohio train Romulus - Republican leaders and residents are demanding answers on why hazardous materials were set to be transported from East Palestine, Ohio, to Michigan without public input or warning. About 50 people gathered at a Republic Services' site in Romulus Sunday afternoon, questioning plans to send substantial amounts of waste to privately-owned facilities in Van Buren Township and Romulus.

Safety regulators say Ohio toxic train derailment '100% preventable' Joe Biden received a briefing on Friday on the multi-agency response to the derailment in Ohio of a freight train carrying toxic chemicals, as his administration came under criticism and safety regulators said the incident had been "100% preventable" - although the train crew were not at fault.

EPA overseeing waste removal operations from toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. The Environmental Protection Agency is now overseeing the cleanup of toxic waste following the a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. Truckloads of waste have already been transported to specialized disposal facilities in Michigan and Texas, officials said.

Developing . . .
Follow-up reporting on at tragedy from the fall . . .



The medical examiner's officer ruled 45-year-old Stanley Singleton's death is a homicide.



Firefighters responded to Ninth Street and Benton Avenue around 2:30 a.m. on Oct. 17, 2022.



Kansas City police said a firefighters found Singleton unresponsive inside the building. Singleton suffered fire-related injuries and died at a hospital.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Kansas City man's death ruled a homicide 4 months later KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Four months after a man died in an apartment fire, investigators determine his death is a crime. The medical examiner's officer ruled 45-year-old Stanley Singleton's death is a homicide. Firefighters responded to Ninth Street and Benton Avenue around 2:30 a.m. on Oct. 17, 2022.

Jackson County Medical Examiner rules fatal apartment fire in Kansas City, Missouri, as homicide KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Missouri, apartment fire that left one man dead in October has been ruled a homicide. The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department, confirmed Monday that the Jackson County Medical Examiner's office officially ruled the fire, which took place in the early morning hours of Oct.

Developing . . .


Please don't make me think about Dilbert.

For the love of God . . . I'm begging you.

In the late 90s when TKC actually wore a tie to work for a hot second . . . This local blogger in the making threatened fist fights when somebody tried to opine regarding the topic of the latest Dilbert comic.

Here's our only insight . . .

Dilbert is a remnant of the newspaper days when there was limited space to distribute comics and the author manage to convince a few people that his work would appeal to mainstream America. He was right and the world was worse for it.

Obviously, the emergence of the infinite void of the Internets has changed things . . . There are anonymous meme-ster bots with better content and a bigger following than Dilbert because Dilbert, in fact, sucks.

So . . .

This debate isn't so much about political correctness or the freedom to pen sh*tty comics and offer repellent opinions as it is about the changing world of comedy, content and technology . . .



But I understand, it's way more fun to rage against the persecution of white dudes. Even better, I'm right there with you . . .

AS LONG AS I DON'T HAVE TO READ IT: DILBERT HAS THE RIGHT TO DESTROY HIS BRAND BY REMAINING HORRIFICALLY UNFUNNY AND NOW REALLY RACIST!!!

That's the best I can do . . . The corporate welfare EV meme king of Twitter did a lot better . . .



Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, Tesla and Twitter, accused the media and elite colleges and high schools of being racist against white and Asian people . . . Musk posted his comments on Twitter, where he has nearly 130 million followers, in response to news that media organizations around the country decided to cut the comic strip Dilbert from syndication after its creator, Scott Adams, delivered a racist tirade in a video on his YouTube channel last week.

Almost forgot the local connection . . .

Sunday evening, the senior executives of one of Kansas Citys most prominent publishers released a statement about LAffaire Dilbert:

Andrews McMeel Universal is severing our relationship with Dilbert creator Scott Adams, wrote Chairman Hugh Andrews and President/CEO Andy Sareyan. As a media and communications company, AMU values free speech.  But we will never support any commentary rooted in discrimination or hate. Recent comments by Scott Adams regarding race and race relations do not align with our core values as a company.

For the record . . .

At least The Far Side was marginally clever every few months back when people still read newspapers.

Since this is a blog . . . We'll share this brief aside: One of the most exceptional women I've ever met had a Calvin & Hobbes tattoo placed near her pelvis which was cute but she never really read the comic. I think she's the leader of a polycule nowadays and getting her Ph. D. in quantum mechanics or something similar that TKC doesn't really understand . . . And all of that is way more interesting than anything related to Dilbert.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Elon Musk calls U.S. media and schools 'racist against whites & Asians' after newspapers drop 'Dilbert' Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, Tesla and Twitter, accused "the media" and "elite colleges and high schools" of being "racist" against white and Asian people, espousing his views without providing evidence on Sunday.

KC publisher made the right call with 'Dilbert.' Scott Adams is no free speech martyr | Opinion Editorials and other Opinion content offer perspectives on issues important to our community and are independent from the work of our newsroom reporters. Sunday evening, the senior executives of one of Kansas City's most prominent publishers released a statement about L'Affaire Dilbert: "Andrews McMeel Universal is severing our relationship with 'Dilbert' creator Scott Adams," wrote Chairman Hugh Andrews and President/CEO Andy Sareyan.

Syndicator, newspapers cut 'Dilbert' after creator Blacks a 'hate group' - Kansas City Business Journal Syndicator and publisher Andrews McMeel Universal said Sunday that it was severing ties with the creator of the "Dilbert" comic strip after his remarks calling Blacks a "hate group." The Kansas City-based company released a statement Sunday night saying it is terminating its relationship with Scott Adams and the "Dilbert" cartoon.

Newspapers have dropped the 'Dilbert' comic strip after a racist rant by its creator The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times and other newspapers across the country say they will no longer carry the syndicated "Dilbert" comic strip after cartoonist Scott Adams urged white people "to get the hell away from Black people." He uttered his racist advice during his online video program last week, during which he labeled Black people a "hate group."

Fully Unhinged 'Dilbert' Guy Tells White People to 'Get the Fuck Away' From Black People Pro-Trump cartoonist Scott Adams pulled the mask all the way off this week, declaring on his podcast that white people should "get the hell away from Black people" while labeling African-Americans as a "hate group."

WSJ News Exclusive | Publisher Drops Plan to Release Book From 'Dilbert' Creator Scott Adams A Penguin Random House imprint said it won't publish "Dilbert" creator Scott Adams's upcoming book "Reframe Your Brain," previously expected to be published this coming September. Mr. Adams made racially insensitive remarks last week, leading many newspapers to drop his "Dilbert" comic strip after he referred to Black Americans as a "hate group" in a rant online.

Twitter CEO Elon Musk defends Dilbert creator's racist tirade Twitter's CEO accused US media of racism after multiple newspapers dropped the popular cartoon.

You decide . . .
Tax season is upon us and with it comes the ever-present threat of fraud. Canadians should be wary of scammers posing as Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) employees who will trick their victims into sending them money or providing personal information that can be used to take over a bank account.
BEIJING, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- All four prototypes of China's AG600M aircraft, a full-configuration firefighting model belonging to the AG600 large amphibious aircraft family, have kicked off the flight test mission, the aircraft developer announced Saturday.

The fourth AG600M firefighting aircraft prototype successfully completed its maiden flight on Saturday in Zhuhai in south China's Guangdong Province, said the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the country's leading plane-maker.

During the 17-minute flight, the aircraft carried out a series of planned flight test subjects. The aircraft demonstrated excellent performance, with its control system and all other systems operating stably.

The successful maiden flight of the aircraft indicates that all four AG600M aircraft prototypes have commenced their flight test mission to acquire the type certificate, the AVIC said.

Editor: WXL
* Nine years on, the coordinated development in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regional city cluster is now in full swing and has grown into a new driving force for China's development.

* The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region's GDP reached 10 trillion yuan (about 1.4 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2022, representing a 1.8-fold increase from 2013 at current prices.

* Coordinated development has not only boosted economic growth, but also improved people's livelihood in the region.

BEIJING, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- The coordinated development in Beijing and neighboring regions is now in full swing and has grown into a new driving force for China's development, nine years after China launched a key strategy to build the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regional city cluster.

The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region's gross domestic product (GDP) reached 10 trillion yuan (about 1.4 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2022, representing a 1.8-fold increase from 2013 at current prices, according to a report released by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Statistics on Feb. 20.

This aerial photo taken on March 31, 2022 shows the Xiong'an Railway Station in Xiong'an New Area, north China's Hebei Province. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

A more rational industrial layout, the more balanced resource distribution and innovation-driven development have not only helped the crowded Chinese capital achieve healthy growth, but also brought benefits to Tianjin and Hebei.

INDUSTRIAL LAYOUT OPTIMIZATION

Beijing Carale Robot Technology Co., Ltd. was established in the Chinese capital in 2014 and moved its factory and R&D center to the neighboring municipality of Tianjin in 2017, with the business flourishing since then.

"All thanks to the policy support from the Tianjin Binhai-Zhongguancun Science Park," the company's CEO Yin Li said. The park, formally established in November 2016 in the Tianjin Binhai New Area, has now become the city's scientific and technological innovation heartland.

The park has not only inherited the innovative spirit of Zhongguancun, the country's first national high-tech industrial development zone, but can also make full use of Tianjin's strong manufacturing base. It was a big move in linking the industrial layout of the two municipalities.

This aerial photo taken on May 12, 2022 shows the Tianjin Binhai-Zhongguancun Science Park in north China's Tianjin. (Xinhua/Zhao Zishuo)

Yin's company could enjoy market information and technical resources of high-level universities in Beijing, and at the same time benefit from the strong policy advantages of Tianjin, which resulted in a reduction of the company's operating costs.

The decision also produced other positive outcomes. In 2022, Carale's sales reached more than 20 million yuan, a year-on-year increase of 40 percent.

The same story is unfolding in the Xiong'an New Area, Hebei Province. Located about 100 km southwest of Beijing, the area has been designed as a major recipient of functions previously located in Beijing but which are not essential to its role as China's capital.

Hebei Province has welcomed some 44,000 enterprises transferred from Beijing and Tianjin, according to the provincial development and reform commission. This year, Hebei plans to absorb 30 second and third-tier subsidiaries of central enterprises which are scheduled to settle in Xiong'an.

This aerial photo taken on Sept. 6, 2022 shows a view of Rongdong District in Xiong'an New Area, north China's Hebei Province. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

INNOVATION-DRIVEN DEVELOPMENT

In the Beijing Daxing International Airport Economic Zone, Du Qiuju, a staff member of Beijing AegleStem Therapeutics Co., Ltd. was doing her daily job in the lab -- carefully examining stem cell raw materials.

As a native of Gu'an County, Hebei Province, Du quit her job in her hometown a year ago and chose to embrace a new opportunity in the economic zone, because "it offers a better salary and is conducive to career development."

She doesn't have to worry about commuting distance. She usually rides a motorcycle for 40 minutes to get to the company. In addition, a rail transit line currently under construction, which is located close to her home, will make commuting more convenient in the future.

The Beijing Daxing International Airport sits at the junction of Beijing's Daxing District and Langfang in Hebei Province. The economic zone has a planned area of 150 square km in total and develops industries ranging from international medical care, and airport guarantee and support services, to international convention and exhibition spaces, comprehensive-purpose bonded areas, as well as aviation logistics.

This aerial photo taken on June 25, 2019 shows the terminal building of the Beijing Daxing International Airport in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Zhang Chenlin)

Due to its unique location advantages and rich policy support, more and more high-tech enterprises like AegleStem have settled there, while many talents from Hebei and Tianjin have been attracted there by superior jobs.

"Beijing has significant R&D strength, while Hebei offers relatively low land and labor costs. Enterprises there are very impressed by the complementary advantages of these two regions, which could combine to form synergistic development advantages," said Zhu Tianzhu, assistant director of the economic zone's administrative committee.

According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), in 2021, the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region invested a total of 394.91 billion yuan in R&D, 2.1 times that of 2013, accounting for 14.1 percent of the national total.

TOGETHER FOR SHARED FUTURE

Coordinated development has not only boosted economic growth, but also improved people's livelihood in the region.

Beijing Children's Hospital in 2015 started assisting the children's hospital in Baoding City, Hebei Province, providing professional medical workers and technical support.

In the past eight years, more than 8,000 medical experts from Beijing have served at Baoding Children's Hospital. They performed operations there and passed on their experience, and eventually cultivated a large number of local medical professionals and high-level medical departments in Baoding.

This aerial photo shows Beijing Children's Hospital in Baoding City, north China's Hebei Province, Oct. 12, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhu Xudong)

According to Tian Jian, director of Baoding Children's Hospital, the hospital only saw about 250,000 patients a year back in 2015, but now it could see over 600,000 patients a year. "Our hospital is now capable of carrying out major operations. Local patients can enjoy Beijing's high-quality medical resources and medical services on their doorsteps."

Apart from this rational distribution of medical resources, 22 university development alliances have also been established in the region, aiming to balance educational resources and provide equitable opportunities for students.

Transportation development has been a basis for the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. A "one-hour traffic circle" now exists between Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei cities, greatly facilitating residents' work and lives in the three areas.

The region has also enjoyed better air quality and a more sustainable energy mix. In 2021, the average density of PM2.5 -- fine particulate matter that causes smog -- fell 15.6 percent compared to a year earlier. Renewable energy accounted for 8.8 percent of the region's total energy consumption, up 1.9 percentage points from 2020, according to the NBS.

(Video reporters: Zhang Shuo, Wang Pu, Xu Jian; video editors: Zhang Li, Wei Yin, Shi Peng)

Editor: GSY




In the local context, its quite excruciating how so many people get endorsed for effortless content creation while others struggle for years without success.





Its a colloquy that has roped in several netizens sentiments; considering a couple of celebrities in mind. The most recent one being Azziad Nasenya.





At 22-year-old, Azziad rose from a little-known dancer to an actress, content creator and media host with over 4.5 million followers on social media platforms. The exquisite content creator is popularly referred to as Kenyas TikTok queen after her Utawezana dance challenge went viral in 2020.





Azziad has been able to bag a couple of endorsements after becoming popular; including a brand endorsement deal with French manufacturing corporation, Societe Bic. The TikTok star was Tuesday unveiled as Kenyas brand ambassador for Bics Miss Soleil womens razor.





Shes also radio presenter at Sound City. She also received an appointment as a member of the governments Talenta Hela Creatives Technical Committee.





The role has made so many people question whether she indeed deserves it; considering she got famous just by dancing. The same question has been posed after Tik-Toker Priscilla WaImani bagged an endorsement deal just by whistling loudly. Unlike Nduru man who has waited an eternity to get a deal. Below is a screenshot of Azziad going head to head with a fan;

USHINDI WA PESA KILA WIKI! wawili tayari wameondoka na laki moja moja jana,na mamia wanabadili maisha Kwa makala zetu nzuri.





Wiki hii,weka 1000 Tu mtandao wowote tembelea www.bizbongo.com , chagua Kati ya MAKOSA YA KUEPUKA KIBIASHARA au FANYA HAYA USIWE SABABU YA USALITI WAKE.





10% ya utakacholipia inaenda kusaidia watoto yatima,unajifunza,unabarikiwa na kuongeza nafasi ya ushindi.





Bofya HAPA Kama tayari Una 1000

---
Hi, my name is Scott C. Waring and I wrote a few books and am currently a ESL School Owner in Taiwan. I have had my own UFO sighting up close and personal, but that's how it works right? A non believer becomes a believer when they experience their first sighting. You witnessed it, your perceptual field changes, so now you need to share it.





I created this site to help the UFO community get a little bit organized. I noticed that there was a lot of chaos when searching for UFO sighting reports, so I hope this site helps. I wanted to support those eyewitnesses who have tried to tell others about what they have seen, yet were laughed at by even closest of friends.





More and more each day the governments of the world leak bits and pieces of UFO information to the public. They have a trickle down theory in hopes of slowly getting citizens use to the idea that we are not alone in universe and never have been. The truth is being leaked drop by drop until one day we look around and find ourselves neck high in it.





The discovery of alien species in existence is the most monumental scientific event in human history, suppression of that information is a crime against humanity.





About me:

I live in Taiwan. I OWN MY OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL, AND ONCE HAD 5 SCHOOLS.

Am Former USAF at SAC base (flight line).

Age: 42

Educ: BA in Elem ed. Masters in Counseling ed.





I had two UFO sightings, (30+bus size orbs) in military and in 2012 personally saw the UFO over Taipei 101 building on New Years Day (and recored it).
The threat of Russian missile strikes across Ukraine remains high.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said this in its operational update published on Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

During the current day, the enemy launched 8 missile attacks and 28 air strikes, including 12 attacks with the use of Iranian-made Shahed-136 UAVs. They carried out more than 55 attacks using multiple launch rocket systems. The threat of missile strikes throughout the territory of Ukraine remains high," the report says.

It is noted that the enemy is focusing main efforts on conducting offensive operations in the Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka and Shakhtarsk directions, as well as on increasing the number of personnel in these areas. According to the available information, up to 200 conscripts from the Rostov region were relocated to the temporarily occupied territory of Luhansk region.

In the Volyn, Polissia, Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna directions, no formation of offensive groups was recorded. In the border districts of the Bryansk and Kursk regions, the enemy conducts engineering equipment of the area, including anti-tank ditches. During the day, the enemy launched mortar and artillery attacks on the settlements of Khrinivka and Yeline in Chernihiv region; Budivelne, Hirky, Atynske, Volfyne, Pavlivka, Stepok in Sumy region; Veterynarne, Strelecha Hatyshche, Vovchanski Khutory, Kamianka in Kharkiv region.

In the Kupiansk and Lyman directions, the enemy carried out several unsuccessful offensives

In the Bakhmut direction, the enemy shelled settlements, including Zaliznianske, Dubovo-Vasylivka, Berkhivka, Bakhmut, Ivanivske, Stupochky, Klishchiivka and Ozarianivka in Donetsk region.

The enemy continues to attack the Ukrainian positions in the Avdiivka and Shakhtarsk directions.

In the Zaporizhzhia direction, Russian forces shelled the areas of 17 settlements.

In the Kherson direction, more than 20 settlements of Kherson region, located on the right bank of the Dnipro River, came under enemy artillery fire, including Berehove, Beryslav, Vesele, Tiahynka, Antonivka and the city of Kherson.

According to the General Staff, the Ukrainian Air Force launched four strikes on the areas of concentration of enemy personnel and military equipment. In addition, during the current day, Ukrainian soldiers destroyed 9 out of 12 Iranian-made UAVs of the Shakhed-136 type and one UAV of the Zala type. Units of the rocket forces and artillery hit a Russian command post and manpower cluster, as well as their air defense system position.

As reported, from February 24, 2022 to February 27, 2023, the Defense Forces of Ukraine eliminated about 148,690 Russian soldiers.

Photo: Kostiantyn Liberov
NANNING, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- For generations, the longest distance that many villagers in Zhadong, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, could fathom is travel between their village and Nanning, the regional capital.

In 2018, the arrival of a Luxembourg man expanded their horizons across continents.

"The first time I came to Zhadong Village, I was overwhelmed by its natural beauty. The adobe homes fit perfectly with the green environment," recalled Hansen Nico Rene, a 63-year-old retired policeman from Luxembourg.

"But when we entered the houses, we found people were poor. There was a fireplace, a table, and some chairs. The bathroom, if it was, was in the pigsty. Tap water and electricity were the only things to remind me that they were in the second millennium."

The village Hansen visited is in a remote mountainous area in Guangxi's Hechi City. Tucked away in deep mountains, Zhadong Village was known for its spectacular karst landscape but also its grinding poverty.

Before coming to Zhadong, Hansen had settled in downtown Hechi for six years. What brought the retiree to Zhadong was a notice recruiting volunteers to aid the poverty alleviation campaign in March 2018.

In 2015, of some 600 residents in the village, over half lived under the national poverty line, meaning their per capita annual income was lower than 2,300 yuan at 2010 constant values, or 2.3 U.S. dollars in terms of purchasing power parity per person a day. At the time of Hansen's first visit, there were still some parts of the village that were not accessible by roads.

Villager Bi Yonghong, 41, remembers the first time he saw Hansen. "People flocked to see him out of curiosity. They took pictures of him with their phones, as it was the first time we saw a foreigner in our village."

During that visit, Hansen met Xie Wanju, then the first Party secretary of Zhadong. It was a rainy day, but dozens of people were busy in the fields working with cables, bamboo, and iron posts, so Hansen went up to check what was up.

Xie told him they were preparing to grow passion fruit to help people out of poverty. He told him he was the first Party secretary of the village.

"We will never forget the first moment (we met) because this changed my whole life. I met the first secretary, and he was working for the government for poverty alleviation. That was amazing. I said if you need help, I have time," Hansen said. Since then, he picked up a new identity -- the village's first Party secretary's assistant.

Across the hills and rivers, the duo have thenceforth worked closely, day and night, to explore a path toward prosperity for residents. They visited each household, asking about villagers' income and taking careful notes. "I know everyone in the village," Hansen said.

"We first thought he was a tourist, as he was carrying a camera with him," Bi said. "But later, we learned he was a volunteer. He is a warm-hearted and hardworking man, always giving a hand to the villagers in their farm work when he sees them. When he visited my home, he helped us shuck the corn, pick mulberry leaves from the fields, and feed our silkworms."

After the visits, Hansen suggested the village use its backyard to build a farm, and he also participated in the building himself.

"In the backyard, there was land and a jungle. We brought electricity and water, and then we built a small farm. Now there are nearly 2,000 pigs and 200 cows. It is still growing," Hansen said.

Today, this farm brings over 100,000 yuan (about 14,400 U.S. dollars) in revenue to the villagers each year.

Under Hansen's assistance, Xie, with the village's officials and other poverty alleviation workers, developed featured industries, including cattle and sheep breeding and fruit planting.

Their efforts paid off. As of November 2020, the whole of Zhadong Village successfully eradicated poverty. Now local authorities are leading the villagers on a new journey to rural revitalization.

Hansen was quite satisfied with his work in the village. "Now everything has changed. The adobe homes have gone. Today everyone lives in new houses with a separate kitchen, living room, bathroom, and bedrooms. There is also electricity and internet connection."

Hansen returned to the city in May 2021 after finishing his voluntary work. However, with a deep attachment to Zhadong, he often goes back to the village to see his old friends and promotes local tourism by sharing pictures of local landscapes and cultural events on social media with his friends in Europe and beyond.

"I was worried that he came just for fun, but it turned out that he wanted to lend a hand," said Xie, who has now returned to his original work as an official in a governmental agency in Hechi.

"He went up and down the mountains with me without any complaint. In him, I see the spirit of Lei Feng - enthusiastic about public welfare and always ready to help others," Xie added.

"Volunteerism in China is amazing. That, in my view, is also a core spirit of the Party. The world is changing, and the mentality of society is changing. I believe the Lei Feng spirit maybe needs more promotion," Hansen said.

Lei, an ordinary young Chinese soldier in the 1960s, is a household name in China known for devoting almost all of his spare time and money to selflessly helping the needy. He died in an accident at the age of 22 in 1962. In his diary, compiled and published posthumously, Lei likened himself to a small yet indispensable "screw" inside a machine and vowed to "never rust" and to serve the people wholeheartedly.

In 1963, Chairman Mao Zedong called on the nation to learn from Lei, and each year's March 5 has been designated as "Lei Feng Day." Since then, people who volunteer to help others and devote themselves to society selflessly and altruistically are lauded by Chinese people as "living Lei Fengs."

For villagers in Zhadong, the images of "living Lei Feng" now include a foreign face. 

Editor: WJH
The Serbian government, of whom many in Russia had great expectations, refused to send Moscow weapons amid an ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

This was stated by the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraines Defense Ministry, Kyrylo Budanov, who spoke with the Voice of America, Ukrinform reports.

"In fact, almost the only country that actually transfers (to Russia  ed.) more or less serious weapons is Iran. I won't tell you anything new here. There were reports that something was coming from North Korea, but we have no confirmation of this. And there is not a single case where we would record that some weapon came from North Korea and that it was used. Maybe we just haven't seen it yet or perhaps goes to cover some other needs. As for other countries, Russia is just trying to buy anything anywhere - because their problems are indeed significant. Serbia, for which everyone in Russia had high hopes, refused to send them weapons," Budanov said.

According to the intelligence chief, there are certain efforts undertaken by Russia to buy weapons through third countries on a more or less large scale.

"Now they are trying with Myanmar. We will see what will come of this over time. But in fact, in terms of weapons supplies, Russia is limited to Iran. Thats as of today," added the GUR chief.

Budanov said that the Russian Federation is in fact a bubble state.

"And how many times has this already been voiced? The red line! Russia will use nuclear weapons, it is already using them almost! This has been going on for some time... The first time it happened was late spring, and then it continued once every month and a half. The climax was from late summer to mid-fall. Did it happen? No, it didnt. Can they inflict this blow? Hypothetically, everything is possible in this life. Is it realistic? No, it is not possible. Thats because Russia is a soap bubble state, let's say. They exaggerate everything," Budanov said.

According to the top intelligence official, the Russian leaders are far from the idiots they are trying to pose as before the whole world.

"They clearly understand the main thing: nuclear arms are not weapons  they are a means of strategic deterrence. Second, the use of a nuclear deterrent by anyone in the world will lead to, let's say, fatal consequences for whoever does it. Whoever it is," added the head of the GUR.

Read also: Biden does not believe Russia poised to use nukes after departing from START

Earlier, Budanov said that more than 60% of Russias military hardware had been taken out of long-term storage depots in Russia, which is lacking armored combat vehicles as many newly-formed units are forced to drive Ural and KamAZ trucks instead.

Photo: LIGA.net
| By Deborah Kotz

Patients with Parkinsons disease achieved a significant improvement in their tremors, mobility, and other physical symptoms after having a minimally invasive procedure involving focused ultrasound, according to a new study published Feb. 23 in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Howard Eisenberg

The clinical trial was led by researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) and involved 94 Parkinsons disease patients who were randomly assigned to undergo focused ultrasound to ablate a targeted region on one side of the brain or to have a sham procedure. Nearly 70 percent of patients in the treatment group were considered successful responders to treatment after three months of follow-up, compared to 32 percent in the control group who had an inactive procedure without focused ultrasound.

Two-thirds of those who responded initially to the focused ultrasound treatment continued to have a successful response from the treatment a year later.

Patients were treated at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the academic flagship hospital for the University of Maryland Medical System, and 15 other sites in North America, Asia, and Europe.

These results are very promising and offer Parkinsons disease patients a new form of therapy to manage their symptoms. There is no incision involved, which means no risk of a serious infection or brain bleeding, said study corresponding author Howard Eisenberg, MD, the Raymond K. Thompson Professor of Neurosurgery at UMSOM and a neurosurgeon at UMMC.

About one million Americans have Parkinsons disease, a neurodegenerative disorder that affects brain cells or neurons in a specific area of the brain that produce the brain chemical dopamine. Symptoms include shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Other treatments for Parkinsons include medications and deep brain stimulation (DBS) from surgically implanted electrodes. The medications can cause involuntary, erratic movements called dyskinesia as doses are increased to control symptoms. Usually offered when medications fail, DBS involves brain surgery to insert the electrodes through two small openings in the skull. The procedure carries a small risk of serious side effects including brain hemorrhage and infection.

Our study will help doctors and patients make an informed decision when considering this new treatment modality to help better manage symptoms, said study co-author Paul Fishman, MD, PhD, professor of neurology at UMSOM and a neurologist at UMMC. But its important for patients to realize that none of the treatments currently available will cure Parkinsons disease.

Focused ultrasound is an incisionless procedure, performed without the need for anesthesia or an in-patient stay in the hospital. Patients, who remain fully alert, lie in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, wearing a transducer helmet. Ultrasonic energy is targeted through the skull to the globus pallidus, a structure deep in the brain that helps control regular voluntary movement. MRI images provide doctors with a real-time temperature map of the area being treated, to precisely pinpoint the target and to apply a high enough temperature to ablate it. During the procedure, the patient is awake and providing feedback, which allows doctors to monitor the immediate effects of the tissue ablation and make adjustments as needed.

The device, called Exablate Neuro, was approved over a year ago by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat advanced Parkinsons disease on one side of the brain. The FDA approval was based on findings from the UMSOM clinical trial published today. It is now widely available at UMMC. However, it is not yet covered by insurance, including Medicare, so patients currently need to pay out of pocket for the procedure.

Focused ultrasound is only approved by the FDA to treat one side of the brain in Parkinsons disease patients, so it may be more appropriate at this time for patients with symptoms predominantly on one side, said study co-author Vibhor Krishna, MD, a professor of neurosurgery at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

Diagnosed with Parkinsons disease in 2020, Melanie Carlson, a 41-year-old mother of a toddler, found that the medications she was taking to manage the condition caused her to have uncontrollable shaking. Her symptoms were so severe, she was dependent on a walker and unable to take her daughter to the playground. Last June, she opted to have focused ultrasound at UMMC after learning about the FDA approval.

Focused ultrasound was really transformative. So many of my fine motor skills have returned. Im putting on eyeliner again and taking showers again without falling, Carlson said. This honestly feels like one of the best years of my life. I just feel so fortunate. I hope more people can benefit from this procedure.

Patients in the trial  with moderate Parkinsons who were not responding well to medications  were treated with one session of focused ultrasound on the side of their brain that controlled the side of their body where symptoms were more severe. The study was designed as a crossover trial, where 25 patients in the control group were offered the active treatment three months after their sham procedure; 20 out of 25 opted to have the focused ultrasound treatment and experienced similar benefits as the initial treatment group.

Those in the treatment group had an immediate improvement of at least three points on a standard assessment  measuring tremors, walking abilities, and rigidity in the legs and arms  compared to an 0.3 point improvement in the control group. They also experienced relief from side effects from Parkinsons medications. They were assessed again at three months and at 12 months. Patients will continue to be followed for five years to evaluate how long the treatment lasts and progression of the disease.

Adverse events from the procedure included headache, dizziness, and nausea that resolved within a day or two of treatment. Some patients experienced mild side effects from the focused ultrasound treatment, including slurred speech, walking issues, and loss of taste. These usually resolved within the first few weeks.

Eisenberg and his colleagues are currently conducting a clinical trial to test the Exablate Neuro device on both sides of the brain, delivering focused ultrasound treatments in two sessions, six months apart. So far, weve had promising results, Eisenberg said.

The study was funded by Insightec, manufacturer of Exablate Neuro.

We are on the edge of the frontier with focused ultrasound, as ongoing research evaluates the procedure in different brain areas affected by Parkinsons, such as the subthalamic nucleus, which controls movement regulation, said UMSOM Dean Mark T. Gladwin, MD, who is also vice president for medical affairs, University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the John Z. and Akiko K. Bowers Distinguished Professor. Researchers also are studying how focused ultrasound could be used to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier to help experimental Parkinsons treatments, like immunotherapy, get into the brain more easily.

Added Bert W. O'Malley, MD, president and CEO of UMMC, As home to one of the top movement disorder centers in the country, and one of only a few medical centers that offer focused ultrasound for Parkinsons, we see firsthand the technologys impact on peoples lives. Congratulations to the researchers  and the trial participants  for exemplifying the innovation and discovery that will make focused ultrasound available to more people in the years to come.
Abdulkareem, 3, at his home in the Shaab displacement site in Aden governorate, Yemen.  UNHCR/Ahmed Al-Mayadeen

SANAA  UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is calling for further efforts and resources to address the acute and growing humanitarian needs inside Yemen, nine years since the war began.

Yemen is facing a protracted displacement and protection crisis where millions  including Yemenis, refugees and asylum-seekers  are suffering the consequences of war, climate shocks and economic deterioration.

Yemen remains one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world, with 4.5 million people internally displaced and more than two-thirds of the population living below the poverty line. Despite their hardships, Yemeni communities are over-stretched and yet they shelter some 100,000 refugees and asylum seekers from other war-torn countries. UNHCR is the only international agency addressing their protection and humanitarian needs. In 2023, the UN estimates that 21.6 million people in Yemen will require humanitarian assistance and protection support. This is nearly three-quarters of the population.

Civilians witnessed a glimpse of calm when the warring parties signed a truce last April. The six-month, UN-brokered truce led to a decline in civilian casualties. Throughout the truce, new internal displacement fell by 76 per cent. The current absence of an official truce and the fragile political and security situation is leaving peoples lives in limbo. The uncertainty  there is no formal peace deal in place, but conflict hasnt restarted - is wreaking havoc on the economy and all aspects of life.

We mustnt forget the plight of those desperately in need in Yemen. The magnitude of this crisis has touched every family across the country -- now nine years into this conflict, said Maya Ameratunga, UNHCRs Representative in Yemen. We know well the heart-rending stories. Far too many have lost their homes, their loved ones and their livelihoods. They lack a social safety net or access to essential services, making them more vulnerable to all kind of threats and risks, resulting in severe psychological distress.

As many as 93 per cent of displaced Yemeni families have at least one family member with a vulnerability, such as someone living with injuries or exhibiting psychological distress, a child engaged in labor, or an elderly person with no care in place. The impact of prolonged conflict and displacement, combined with lack of livelihoods, basic services and food, is driving increased protection risks: children drop out of schools; many end up working to support their families by begging; widows and other single women are heading households and early marriage of girls has become a survival strategy for many.

Although humanitarian assistance to Yemen remains severely underfunded, the needs continue to grow. We are seeing displaced Yemenis struggling to find solutions, Ameratunga added. Many are trying to restart their lives by returning home to devastated areas, integrating within communities in places of displacement or relocating elsewhere in the country. They, too, need support to rebuild their lives.

With increased support, humanitarians would be able to reach more vulnerable families with assistance and services like legal and psychosocial support or programs that specifically help protect children and other vulnerable community members. UNHCR also has a cash assistance program supporting the most vulnerable to address life-saving needs, as well as shelter programs to respond to the difficult housing situation affecting many Yemenis.

So far this year, UNHCR has received just 8 per cent of the US$ 320 million it requires for its work in Yemen in 2023.

Yemenis cannot be abandoned. The magnitude and scale of the needs of the people deserve the worlds attention and support. Ahead of todays High Level Pledging Conference for Yemen which can be viewed here, UNHCR calls on the international community to commit to and stand by the people of Yemen, who deserve a life of dignity in safety.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
A worker arranges western musical instruments at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker arranges musical instruments at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker makes violins at a musical instrument manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker counts the number of semi-finished musical instruments at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A villager plays the saxophone at Zhouwo musical town in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 26, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker checks violin panels at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker paints violins at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker arranges musical instruments at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker makes components for musical instruments at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

Villagers play music to welcome tourists at Zhouwo music town in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 26, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker makes a musical instrument at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A sculpture of saxophone performer is seen at Zhouwo musical town in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 26, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

Students play the saxophone at Fuxing primary school in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A man makes a guitar at a guitar workshop in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 26, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

A worker assembles western musical instruments at a manufacturer in Wuqiang County, north China's Hebei Province, on Feb. 23, 2023.

There are 63 musical instrument manufacturers in Wuqiang County, employing more than 10,000 people. More than 400 types of musical instruments are produced in the county and are sold to more than 80 countries and regions. (Xinhua/Mu Yu)

Editor: WXY
Interview: Poland well-prepared for Chinese tourists' arrivals: tourism regional head

Xinhua) 11:05, February 27, 2023

WARSAW, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- Poland expects Chinese tourists and is well-prepared for their arrivals, a representative of Polish Tourism Organization has said, after outbound tourism began to recover in China earlier this month.

"I'm very happy to notice the changes in China's outbound tourism policy," Malgorzata Tanska, head of the organization's Beijing office, told Xinhua in a written interview recently, referring that China has resumed outbound group travel to certain countries after a three-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

China has just resumed outbound group travel for tourists to 20 countries, including Hungary and Switzerland in Europe, but Poland is not yet among the destinations, she said, voicing her hope that Poland would be added to the destinations soon.

The resumption of outbound travel, part of the measures of China's optimization of the pandemic control measures, has been welcomed by the global tourism industry.

Noting that the number of Chinese people travelling to Poland reached 130,000 in 2019, Tanska said that the Chinese tourism market is one of the most important for Poland.

"We worked hard to let the Chinese people not forget about Poland and its tourist attractions. We actively organized live streams from Polish cities on Chinese social media platforms," she said.

She noted that practical information about Poland attractions, hotels and restaurants is also provided through WeChat, a popular social media platform in China.

Tanska said that Poland's nature, culture and the friendly travel cost are what Chinese tourists most interested in.

She also said that the Polish consulates in China have already resumed issuing visas for individual tourists, and LOT Polish Airlines and Air China have both relaunched direct flights between Beijing and Warsaw with increasing frequency, which will facilitate Chinese travelers.

"After years of pandemic, the Polish hospitality industry is well-equipped for the arrival of international tourists, with higher hygiene standards and stricter sanitation measures in hotels and restaurants," she added.

"There is a Polish saying: 'A Guest at home is like God,'" said Tanska, "We see great opportunity for Poland to win the hearts of Chinese tourists."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Heineken plans to exit Russia in the first half of 2023, although it is having difficulties with the sale of its Russian assets, the Dutch brewer said in a press release.

"It is challenging to close a transaction in Russia at the moment as rules continue to shift. We aren't dragging our feet and do wish things would move more quickly. With that said, all things remaining the same, we aim to reach an agreement in the first half of this year," the company said.

The company estimated the negative financial impact of the exit from Russia at about 300 million euros. The final loss will be determined when the Russian business is transferred to a new owner, Heineken said.

Heineken, which has seven breweries in Russia, announced in March 2022 that it was suspending new investment in and exports to Russia, as well as production and sales of its flagship Heineken brand. The company also announced that it would not accept any net financial benefits or profits from its business in Russia; all payments, royalties and dividends were suspended.

Heineken's portfolio includes about 300 brands, including Heineken, Amstel, Birra Moretti, Desperados, Foster's, Newcastle Brown Ale, Sagres, Sol, Star, Strongbow, Tecate and Tiger. National brands in Russia include Okhota, Zhigulevskoye and Stepan Razin, among others.
(@FahadShabbir)

Moscow, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :The Kremlin hit out at the European Union on Monday after the bloc adopted its latest package of sanctions against Russia for its military intervention in Ukraine.

"All this, of course, is absurd," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters in response to a question about the new penalties, which target 121 individuals and entities.

The latest penalties are the 10th round of EU sanctions aimed at undercutting Russia's finances and military supplies for the conflict.

Peskov said Western countries were struggling to find more people and entities to sanction.

"That explains the illogical listing of individuals and entities," Peskov said.

"We are talking about such accomplished people and for them, inclusion in the lists will not cause any discomfort," he added.

The latest EU sanctions target dozens of Russian entities -- meaning businesses or state agencies -- including another three Russian banks.

Being on the list means an asset freeze in the EU and a visa ban.
The United States is in the process now of sending the third tranche of high-voltage equipment to Ukraine to complete it at the beginning of March this year, U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said in an interview with Voice of America.

She did not specify the amount of the upcoming assistance, but at the same time she expressed admiration for the promptness of attracting the assistance already provided to restore the operation of the power system.

"What's amazed us as how quickly the Ukrainians have been able to incorporate what we were sending so that they can get up the things running again. It is really breathtaking, the kind of reliance and quick turnaround that happened with those who are working on the grid," Granholm said.

At the same time, Granholm confirmed that her country supports the desire of the Ukrainian side to build a new model of the power system, which will be based on clean energy and decentralization. As a result, this will help achieve the key goal  the energy independence of Ukraine as an integral part of national security.

"I do know that the president  President [Volodymyr] Zelenskyy  has really expressed a desire to have a different grid. A grid that is distributed, that has clean energy, but also that isn't so centralized so that it becomes a target. And that is very encouraging, that's something we very much want to work with Ukraine on," she said.

According to her, the U.S. National Renewable Energy lab, doing roadmaps for countries that have expressed interest in going 100% renewable, is ready to work with Ukraine.

Granholm said that she is in contact with the Minister of Energy of Ukraine Herman Haluschenko and feels the desire of the Ukrainian side for cooperation and implementation of relevant plans.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Moscow, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :The Kremlin on Monday acknowledged China's proposal for a political solution in Ukraine but said the conditions for a peaceful resolution of the conflict were not in place "at the moment".

"We paid a lot of attention to our Chinese friends' plan," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday, adding that: "for now, we don't see any of the conditions that are needed to bring this whole story towards peace." China has sought to position itself as a neutral party in the conflict while maintaining close ties with strategic ally Russia.

Beijing last week called for peace talks as it released a 12-point paper to end the war in Ukraine, which included the respect of all countries' territorial sovereignty.

The Russian foreign ministry on Friday thanked Chinese efforts but said that any settlement of the conflict needed to recognise Russia's control over four Ukrainian regions.

Russia claims to have annexed the regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson but never fully controlled them.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country needed to work with China, arguing "it seems to me that there is respect for our territorial integrity, security issues" in the Chinese perspective.

Zelensky also said he was convinced that only a country whose territory is under attack can initiate "any peace initiatives."The publication of the proposal follows accusations from the West that China is considering arming Russia, a claim Beijing has dismissed as false.
(@Abdulla99267510)

Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo has strongly condemned the terrorist incident.

HARNAI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Feb 27th, 2023) At least four coal miners were killed and three others injured when unknown gunmen opened fire on them at Khusth area of District Harnai on Monday.

The injured were shifted to nearby hospital for treatment.

Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo strongly condemned the terrorist incident.

He also expressed sympathy with bereaved families and prayed for the departed souls.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

A Levies Force personnel was martyred and five others were injured when their vehicle hit a roadside landmine in Jannat Ali area of the Kohlu district on Monday

QUETTA, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :A Levies Force personnel was martyred and five others were injured when their vehicle hit a roadside landmine in Jannat Ali area of the Kohlu district on Monday.

According to Levies sources, the personnel were on their way to Union Council 20 of Jannat Ali to provide security for the election on specific seats, when their vehicle stepped over the landmine, which went off.

Two of the injured, who were shifted to a nearby hospital, were stated to be in critical condition and were later airlifted to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Quetta by helicopter.

The martyred personnel was identified as Muhammad Aslam, who belonged to Kohlu and had joined the Balochistan Levies Force a month ago, while the injured included Abdul Samad, Amanullah, Muhammad Ashraf, Hamal Khan, Abdul Sattar.

After the blast, law enforcement agencies (LEAs) cordoned off the entire area and started investigations.
RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Services Chiefs and armed forces of Pakistan paid tribute to resilience of the nation and resolve of armed forces displayed during Operation Swift Retort.

Director General Inter Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry in a tweet on his official handle on Monday shared the commemorative message on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of Operation Swift Retor.

The ISPR DG wrote under the pretext of the false flag Pulwama attack, India stage managed a cowardly attack on a fictitious target.

The daring, resolute and measured response from Pakistan thwarted Indian nefarious designs.

"Let this day be a reminder that while being a peace-loving nation, Pak AFs (armed forces) are ever ready, not only to defend every inch of the motherland, but to take the fight back to the enemy, if ever, aggression is imposed on us," he said.

While stating the resolve and strong determination of the armed forces, he said, "Any delusion resulting into a misadventure will always be met with full might of Pak AFs backed by a resilient nation. Pakistan Zindabad."
Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf on Monday clarified that he had accepted the resignations of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members of the National Assembly (MNAs) as per the Constitution and on their own reques

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf on Monday clarified that he had accepted the resignations of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members of the National Assembly (MNAs) as per the Constitution and on their own request.

Talking to a delegation of PTI leaders, which met him under the leadership of Malik Amir Dogar, the speaker made it clear he would discuss the matter with his legal team and they would be informed accordingly.

The PTI leaders requested the speaker to withdraw his decision regarding the acceptance of their MNAs' resignations, a news release said.

Raja Pervez Ashraf said he had repeatedly sent letters but no PTI member appeared before him. He started the process of accepting resignations when a delegation led by former speaker Asad Qaiser and Aamir Dogar requested him to do so.

The speaker observed that he was bound by the Constitution, the law, and the rules and regulations of the National Assembly.

He asked the delegation whether the PTI MNAs did not resign according to their will. The resignations were accepted when the PTI delegation headed by Asad Qaiser stressed to do so, he added.
(@FahadShabbir)

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :Two soldiers of Pakistan Army have embraced martyrdom in a fire exchange that took place between terrorists and the Army troops on February 26 in general area Spinwam, North Waziristan District.

According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release, the Pakistan Army troops effectively engaged the terrorists' location.

During the clash, two terrorists got Killed, while two terrorists were apprehended by the troops. Moreover, weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists who remained actively involved in terrorist activities against security forces and killing of innocent citizens.

The martyred soldiers were identified as Sepoy lmran Ullah (age 25 years, resident of District Bajaur) and Sepoy Afzal Khan (age 21 years, resident of District Upper Dir) who embraced shahadat while fighting gallantly, during intense exchange of fire.

The sanitisation of the area was being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area. "Pakistan Army is determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve," it said.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) An anaerobic (air-independent) power system for non-nuclear submarines developed by Russia's Central Design Bureau for Marine Engineering "Rubin" provides for the use of lithium-ion batteries, which will increase the combat capabilities of subs of the Russian Navy, the CEO of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC), Alexei Rakhmanov, told Sputnik.

"The new development of the Rubin design bureau provides for the use of these batteries in conjunction with an anaerobic power system, which should significantly increase the combat capabilities of promising non-nuclear submarines," Rakhmanov said.

He emphasized that lithium-ion batteries have more power than the current ones with the same weight and size characteristics.

In October of last year, Andrey Baranov, Rubin's Deputy Director General for Foreign Economic Activities and Military Technical Cooperation, told Sputnik that the design bureau was planning to create an air-independent propulsion system for non-nuclear submarines based on hydrogen production from diesel fuel.

Air-independent propulsion (AIP) increases a submarine's stealth, since it allows it to operate without access to atmospheric oxygen, removing the need for surfacing.
The United Kingdom and the European Union reached an agreement on a new trade deal within the Northern Ireland Protocol framework, Sky News reported, citing a senior UK government source

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) The United Kingdom and the European Union reached an agreement on a new trade deal within the Northern Ireland Protocol framework, Sky news reported, citing a senior UK government source.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen later in the day to discuss the details of the new agreement, according to the broadcaster.
Italy's coastguard on Monday searched the sea and beaches for bodies following a shipwreck off Calabria, as authorities tried to identify the dead and the government's migrant policy came under scrutiny

Cutro, Italy, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :Italy's coastguard on Monday searched the sea and beaches for bodies following a shipwreck off Calabria, as authorities tried to identify the dead and the government's migrant policy came under scrutiny.

The overloaded wooden boat broke up and sank early Sunday in stormy seas off Italy's southern coast, with bodies, shoes and debris washing up along a long stretch of shoreline.

The death toll rose Monday to 62 people, a coast guard official told AFP -- and that number looked likely to increase.

Sergio di Dato, head of the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) team offering psychological support to the survivors, said there were cases of children orphaned in the disaster.

"One Afghan 12-year-old boy lost his entire family, all nine of them -- four siblings, his parents and other very close relatives," he told journalists.

At Le Castella, where a 15th-century fortress dominates the shoreline, an AFP journalist witnessed the coastguard recovering the body of a woman who looked to be in her early 20s.

- 'Many missing minors' - Local officials said the search was ongoing for around 20 people still believed missing, though survivors have given differing versions as to how many people were originally on the boat.

Forensic police set about identifying the victims, issuing an email address to which relatives searching for loved ones could send distinguishing details, from eye and hair colour to tattoos or piercings.

The Save the Children charity said on Twitter it was supporting survivors from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Somalia and Syria, including 10 minors who had been travelling with their families.

"There are many missing minors," it wrote.

The charity said survivors described how "during the night, near the coast, they heard a loud boom, the boat broke and they all fell into the water." The survivors were "in shock... some say they saw relatives fall into the water and disappear, or die".

Pakistan's foreign ministry said Monday that 16 Pakistanis were among those rescued, but four were reported missing.

A Pakistani official tasked with fighting human trafficking told AFP that the number of people trying to leave Pakistan was growing because "of the deterioration in the economic situation and lack work.

" The official said on condition of anonymity that there were an estimated 40,000 Pakistanis trying to enter European countries each year.

The boat was reported to have set sail from Izmir in Turkey last week. Three suspected human traffickers were arrested and police were searching for a fourth, media reports said Monday.

- Twins found dead - David Morabito, a rescue diver in Calabria, told Rai state broadcaster he had recovered the bodies of young twins from the water.

"When you see the little, lifeless bodies of children, those images pierce your heart," Morabito said.

"So many children dead. A tragedy," he added.

The disaster has further fuelled the debate in Italy over search and rescue measures for saving migrants who run into trouble on the Central Mediterranean route, which is the world's deadliest.

Far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, elected in September, has pledged to curb migrant arrivals.

She said Sunday the government was "committed to preventing (migrant boat) departures and, with them, this type of tragedy", while her interior minister Matteo Paintedosi simply said "they must not set sail".

Their reactions were "a sad buck-passing, yet another slap in the face of the victims and survivors of this tragedy", MSF Italy's programmes director Marco Bertotto said Monday.

"Sea rescue must not be confused with illegal immigration. We need patrolling on the high seas and coordination," he told journalists.

Meloni's government pushed through a controversial law last week that forces migrant aid charities to perform only one life-saving rescue mission at a time before heading directly to ports, which are often far away.

Critics say the measure violates international law and will result in more people drowning.

According to the interior ministry, nearly 14,000 migrants have arrived in Italy by sea so far this year, up from 5,200 over the same period last year.
President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a "noticeable reduction" of France's troop presence in Africa following a withdrawal from Mali and Burkina Faso after years of fighting militants there

Paris, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 27th Feb, 2023 ) :President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a "noticeable reduction" of France's troop presence in Africa following a withdrawal from Mali and Burkina Faso after years of fighting militants there.

"The change will happen in the coming months with a noticeable reduction of our numbers and a greater presence in these bases of our African partners," Macron said ahead of a four-nation African tour.

This "reorganisation... does not intend to be a withdrawal", he said.

"We will remain but with a reduced footprint... We will do more training, more equipping and better accompanying" of local troops according to their needs, he said.

Some bases would become training academies, while others would become "partner" bases, he added.

Macron said they would adapt with less French military personnel on the ground, and an "Africanisation" of their staff.

They would see a "rise in the presence of their African partners according to goals defined" by these partners, he added.

The anti-French sentiment is running high in former French colonies Mali and Burkina Faso after military coups there that led to fallouts with Paris and the pullout of French troops from both countries.

Macron heads off on a four-nation tour of central African countries from Wednesday as Paris seeks to counter growing Chinese and Russian influence on the continent.

He will visit Gabon for an environmental summit, followed by Angola, then the Republic of Congo, or Congo-Brazzaville, and finally the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.
Pepsio Ukraine has resumed the operation of its plant for production of soft drinks in Mykolaiv region, and a large tomato producer has also begun work in the region, according to the website of the Mykolaiv regional military administaration.

"Two large enterprises have already begun to work. One of them is PepsiCo, which is restoring its plant, the other enterprise is the world leader in the export of tomatoes. Therefore, the business is also not afraid, it works and recovers, but we would like it to happen faster," the administration quotes its head, Vitaliy Kim.

The official did not specify the name of the enterprise producing tomatoes and their products. At the same time, before the Russian aggression, the largest producer of tomatoes and tomato paste in the region was the Agrofusion company (Mykolaiv), which earlier announced plans to resume the work of its three tomato processing plants in Mykolaiv and Kherson regions, which were significantly damaged during the hostilities with Russian invaders.

According to him, the restoration of business life in the region is hindered by a large number of territories mined by Russian invaders.

"South of Ukraine is the territory with the most mines in the world. As for Mykolaiv region, 10% of the region's territory, 270,000 hectares, needs to be cleared or surveyed for the presence of mines. Because of this, it is very difficult for business to plan something, part of the business destroyed, part relocated, and it takes time and conditions, including from the lending side, for the business to recover," he said.

In Ukraine, PepsiCo owns five enterprises: a plant for processing fruit, vegetables and producing juices, a plant for production of juices, carbonated drinks and iced tea (all in Mykolaiv region), Kharkiv Dairy Plant; Kyiv Dairy Plant, which also houses the Agusha baby food plant, launched in 2012.

Agrofusion is a vertically integrated group of companies. It is engaged in the cultivation and processing of tomatoes for manufacturers of juices, ketchups and tomato sauces. It produces tomato paste under the Inagro brand, which is represented in 45 countries around the world.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro could come on a visit to Russia in 2023, although it is too early to talk about specific dates, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told Sputnik.

"The President of Venezuela has a corresponding invitation.

The issue is being discussed. I think that the visit will take place this year, but it is too early to talk about the timing," Ryabkov said.

He stressed that contacts between the presidents of Russia and Venezuela are of key importance for the promotion of bilateral relations, and Moscow and Caracas continue to provide mutual support on international platforms.
Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland on Monday said members on the fringes of both the Democrat and Republican parties are beginning to question the US assistance to Ukraine

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland on Monday said members on the fringes of both the Democrat and Republican parties are beginning to question the US assistance to Ukraine.

"You're not wrong, that on the fringes of both parties, folks are starting to question, but fundamentally, when you look at how this issue is polling around the country, Americans hate a bully. They do not want to stand on the sidelines while Russia eats its neighbor" Nuland said during a discussion on United States leadership hosted by the US Chamber of Commerce.

Nonetheless, Nuland said US aid sent to Ukraine so far would not have been possible without "overwhelming" Congress support from both parties, she continued.

Last week, the US Department of Defense said that the total amount of US military assistance to Ukraine has exceeded $30 billion since US President Joe Biden took office.

Polls in recent weeks have revealed that Americans' support for Ukraine is sliding since Russia launched its special military operation. Earlier in February, an AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll showed 48% of voters back sending weapons to Ukraine, down from 60% who said so in May.
Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev and Algerian security officials have discussed cooperation between the countries' law enforcement and intelligence agencies during an official meeting in Algiers, the Russian Security Council said on Monday

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev and Algerian security officials have discussed cooperation between the countries' law enforcement and intelligence agencies during an official meeting in Algiers, the Russian Security Council said on Monday.

"Nikolai Patrushev met with Said Chanegriha, the chief of staff of the Algerian People's National Army, and M'henna Djebbar, the director general of the Directorate of Documentation and External Security.

The parties discussed issues of interaction between law enforcement agencies and special services, as well as other issues of the Russian-Algerian security cooperation," the Russian Security Council's statement read.

Patrushev regularly holds meetings with counterparts from Algeria. In April 2022, Russia and Algeria held security consultations in Moscow during which the parties outlined plans for further cooperation in the field of information security.
(@FahadShabbir)

Warships and support vessels of Russia, China, and South Africa ended joint naval exercises in the Indian Ocean on Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry said

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) Warships and support vessels of Russia, China, and South Africa ended joint naval exercises in the Indian Ocean on Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"Today, a trilateral naval exercise with the participation of warships and support vessels of the Russian navy, the Chinese People's Liberation Army navy, and the South African National Defense Forces ended in the Indian Ocean," the ministry said in a statement.

As part of the drills that kicked off last Saturday, warships from the three countries fired artillery at a sea target and practiced freeing a captured ship with hostages, as well as providing assistance to a ship in distress.

The Chinese Defense Ministry said that the drills would further advance defense and security cooperation between the BRICS countries. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, in turn, criticized the South African government for participating in the exercises and accused it of "adopting the experience of the Russian military machine."
(@FahadShabbir)

ANKARA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) Specific dates for extending the Black Sea Grain Initiative, commonly known as the grain deal, have not been discussed yet; different options remain on the table, a source familiar with the grain deal negotiations told Sputnik.

The grain deal, originally scheduled to expire on November 19, was renewed for another 120 days last fall and is now set to expire on March 18, if not renewed again. Kiev seeks to prolong it for at least another year.

"No, specific dates have not been discussed yet, there are various options.

Now, a very complex process is underway, the discussion of the details of the further work mechanism," a source told Sputnik when asked about the potential extension of the grain deal.

Commenting on Kiev's desire to extend the agreement for a year, the source said that "it is too early to talk about the timing." "I repeat, we are not at that stage now. These are various initiatives voiced by the parties. Everything will be decided at the negotiating table after discussing all the details and disagreements," the source said.
The head of the US 8th Air Force has sacked two air group commanders and approved the removal of four more in a shake up at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, the Air Force Strike Command (AFSC) announced on Monday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) The head of the US 8th Air Force has sacked two air group commanders and approved the removal of four more in a shake up at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, the Air Force Strike Command (AFSC) announced on Monday.

"Major General Andrew Gebara, commander of 8th Air Force, relieved two commanders today from their positions of leadership at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, due to a loss of confidence in their ability to complete their assigned duties," the AFSC said in a statement.

Gebara relieved the Commanders of the 5th Mission Support Group and the 5th Logistics Readiness Squadron.

Also, four more officers described as subordinate leaders were relieved by commanders at the same base, the statement said.

"Eighth Force continues to safeguard global combat power and conduct around-the-clock strategic deterrence operations in a safe, secure and effective manner. Our mission is foundational to our nation's defense," Gebara said in the statement.

Minot Air Force base is the only dual-wing nuclear capable base in the US Air Force that has two different elements of the nuclear strategic triad. The 5th Bomb Wing operates 26 B-52 strategic bombers and the 91st Missile Wing operates 150 intercontinental ballistic missile sites.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

The US House Oversight Committee is requesting to hold transcribed interviews with seven Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) sector chiefs to help better understand the situation at the United States-Mexico border, Chairman James Comer said on Monday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 27th February, 2023) The US House Oversight Committee is requesting to hold transcribed interviews with seven Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) sector chiefs to help better understand the situation at the United States-Mexico border, Chairman James Comer said on Monday.

Earlier this month, two Chief Patrol Agents from sectors along the US-Mexico border testified at a panel hearing, during which they frequently pointed to the uniqueness of different sectors and their situations.

"The uniqueness of each sector demonstrates a need for the Committee to obtain additional information regarding other sectors on the southern border," Comer said in a letter to CBP Acting Commissioner Troy Miller. "The Committee believes Chief Patrol Agents managing other sectors have additional, valuable information that will assist the Committee in fully understanding the crisis at the southern border.

"

The panel is requesting transcribed interviews from Chief Patrol Agents in charge of sectors including those covering San Diego, El Paso, Yuma and Del Rio.

To minimize impact to agency operations, the panel will conduct the interviews in the chiefs' respective sectors at a location convenient to the agents, the letter said.

US President Joe Biden and his administration have created the "worst border crisis" in US history, Comer said in a statement on the letter.

Earlier this month, a Gallup poll found that US public satisfaction with the country's immigration situation is at its lowest point in a decade, with only 28% of respondents holding a positive view.
Southern Miss to Present the 2023 Lt. Col. John H. Dale Sr. Distinguished Lecture in International Security and Global Policy

Mon, 02/27/2023 - 08:47am | By: Dr. Heather M. Stur

The General and the Journalist: A Look Back at Iraq 2003 with General Buford Buff Blount and Ted Koppel.

The Dale Center for the Study of War & Society at The University of Southern Mississippi is pleased to announce that legendary Nightline anchor and war correspondent Ted Koppel will join General Buford Buff Blount for a conversation looking back on the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003. The event marks the 20th anniversary of the invasion and capture of Baghdad resulting in the collapse of Saddam Husseins regime.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 6 p.m. in Bennett Auditorium on the Southern Miss Hattiesburg campus. It is free and open to the public.

Koppel was embedded with the 3rd Infantry Division during the invasion of Iraq and advance to Baghdad. During that time, Koppel got to know Blount and observe his leadership as he commanded the tip of the spear as the 3rd Infantry Division was known. Koppel and Blount will reflect on the divisions drive to Baghdad, the famous thunder runs into the heart of the city, and the divisions role in the postwar occupation of Iraq. Dr. Heather Stur, Dale Center co-director, will moderate the conversation. Stur is the author of 21 Days to Baghdad: General Buford Blount and the U.S. 3rd Infantry Division in the Iraq War, which will be out this spring with Osprey Publishing.

The Lt. Col. John H. Dale Sr. Distinguished Lecture Series in International Security and Global Policy honors the late Lt. Col. John H. Dale, Sr., a career U.S. Army Officer who served in World War II and the Korean War and earned the Bronze Star. Lt. Col. Dale held a graduate degree from Southern Miss and later served as professor of military studies for the Universitys Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program.

The lecture series is made possible through a generous donation by Southern Miss alumna Dr. Beverly Dale, in honor of her late father.

Previous speakers in the series include:

Dan Rather, CBS news anchor and war correspondent (2019)

General David H. Petraeus, U.S. Army, Retired (2017)

Dr. Robert M. Gates, Former Secretary of Defense, CIA Director (2014)

Madeleine Albright, Former Secretary of State (2010)

Wyche Fowler, former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (2008)

During more than 50 years that he has worked as a professional journalist, Koppel has embodied the term eye-witness to history. As war correspondent, Koppel covered the conflicts in Viet Nam, Laos and Cambodia, and he reported on the collapse of the Soviet Union as the only reporter inside the Kremlin with Mikhail Gorbachev. In 2003, Koppel was an embedded correspondent and Nightline anchor during the invasion of Iraq.

Over the course of 26 years as anchor and managing editor of Nightline, Koppel became the longest serving news anchor in U.S. broadcast history. In 2012, New York University named Koppel one of the 100 outstanding journalists in the United States in the last 100 years. When he left ABC News after 42 years, he was the most honored reporter in that

networks history, having received more Overseas Press Club awards than the previous record holder, Edward R. Murrow, and eight George Foster Peabody awards. Koppel also has won 12 Columbia-DuPont awards, televisions equivalent to the Pulitzer Prize. He has received 43 Emmys, including one for lifetime achievement.

General Buford Buff Blount (U.S. Army-retired) served a distinguished 33-year career in the U.S. Army, receiving numerous honors including the Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Presidential Unit Citation, Saint George Award, and the Order of Saint Barbara award. Blount graduated from the University of Southern Mississippis Army ROTC program in 1971 and held various commands including battalion commander, 3rd Battalion, 64th Armor; brigade commander, 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry division; and division commander, 3rd Infantry Division. Blount also held the position of program manager for the Saudi Arabian National Guard modernization program. When Blount commanded the 3rd Infantry Division in Iraq, the division completed the fastest, longest offensive attack in U.S. Army history. Blount is a seventh-generation serviceman with family roots in Bassfield, Mississippi.
Oleksandr Kamyshin, board chairman of JSC Ukrzaliznytsia, announced resignation from his post.

"The 369th day of the war. The railway continues to work on schedule. And I am resigning. By a joint decision with Deputy Prime Minister Kubrakov, I will head the office for European integration of Ukrzaliznytsia in Europe," he wrote on the Telegram channel on Monday evening.

According to him, Ukrzaliznytsia is now working clearly and smoothly, and Kamyshin is sure that "everything will be fine" in the future.

"I leave the position with a calm heart ... I am grateful to President Zelenskyy and Deputy Prime Minister Kubrakov for the high appreciation of my work in the position," Kamyshin added.
As Antony Blinken makes his first visit to Central Asia as U.S. secretary of state this week, the Biden administration says it is focused on supporting the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the region's five former Soviet republics, which maintain strong political, economic and socio-cultural ties with Russia.

Blinken travels to Kazakhstan, Central Asia's largest economy with the highest level of U.S. investment, as well as Uzbekistan, the most populous country.

The trip is an opportunity to reach out and try to improve alliances as Washington looks to further isolate Russia for invading Ukraine. But democracy supporters are urging the U.S. to promote systemic reforms, arguing that accountability, openness and the rule of law are prerequisites for ensuring the region's long-term security and prosperity.

Strategic move

Richard Hoagland, a former ambassador to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, sees Blinken's trip "as a welcome reminder to the Central Asian leaders that U.S. foreign policy is paying attention while they grapple with their traditionally dominant partner, Russia, because of [President Vladimir] Putin's criminal war in Ukraine."

"Washington has no desire to supplant Moscow in Central Asia," Hoagland told VOA. "But it does want to remind the leaders of the region that the United States has not forgotten their multi-vector foreign policy and continues to be a reliable partner."

Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu, a senior policy official traveling with Blinken to the region this week, added that Russia's war in Ukraine has put enormous pressure on these countries.

"We see high food and fuel prices, high unemployment, difficulty in exporting their goods, slow post-COVID recovery, and a large influx of migrants from Russia. We are working to support people in the region," Lu told reporters in a briefing last week.

There has been no official mention of neighboring Afghanistan ahead of this trip, which has long been a priority in U.S. engagement with the region. On February 28, Blinken will participate in C5+1, a diplomatic dialogue launched in 2015 among five Central Asian countries and Washington to boost regional cooperation. Bilateral talks are also planned in Kazakhstan, including with the foreign ministers from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

On Tuesday, in Astana with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and on Wednesday in Tashkent with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Blinken is to focus on security issues and economic cooperation, while also urging leaders to speed up promised reforms.

"Advancing human rights in Central Asia has always been a top priority of the United States. We are committed to supporting the protection of vulnerable populations in Central Asia. That includes refugees, asylum-seekers, LGBTQI+ persons, women, and girls," Lu said.

In both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, despite progress in recent years, the State Department's human rights reports as well as international watchdogs point to widespread violations of basic freedoms, specifically by law enforcement and other authorities.

"It makes sense for human rights issues to feature strongly in Secretary Blinken's talks in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan," said Hugh Williamson, Human Rights Watch Europe and Central Asia director.

"Human rights improvements would mean more stability, which is certainly lacking in the region. He should, for instance, press for effective independent investigations into what happened during the protests in Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan and in the January events in Kazakhstan. Without real respect for human rights, these governments won't be reliable partners for the U.S.," Williamson said.

US assistance

With Ukraine high on Blinken's agenda, Lu told reporters, "We are not asking for countries to choose between us and Russia, or us and China." He argued that Astana and Tashkent value America's unique political and economic input which "are different from the engagement of Moscow and Beijing."

While Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have avoided explicit condemnation of the Kremlin's invasion of Ukraine, they have refused to recognize the independence of Russia-backed separatist regions in Ukraine, nor their annexation late last year by Putin.

"We've committed $41.5 million in assistance this year to Central Asia to support food security and economies that we see are struggling. This money will help them explore new export routes, retrain their workforce, reduce unemployment, and spur private sector growth," said Lu.

The State Department is helping Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan avoid secondary sanctions, as the West increases economic and financial restrictions against Russia.

"We have issued a license so that the Caspian Pipeline Consortium is able to transfer Kazakh oil to markets. It's a pipeline that goes through Russia," Lu said. "The purpose of these sanctions is to target entities in Russia that are fueling Putin's war in Ukraine, it's not to harm the interests of Central Asian republics or their peoples or their economies. Here's an illustration of how we have made sure the world knows it's fine to use Kazakh oil that comes out of this pipeline."

Three banks have been transformed from Russian subsidiaries to wholly locally owned, added Lu, through licenses allowing for the transfer of assets into Kazakh hands.

It boils down to freedom

Closely watching Blinken's visit, Uzbek and Kazakh civil society activists are asking the U.S. to push for systemic reforms without which, they argue, these republics will not be able to overcome geopolitical challenges, including preserving their independence.

"We have seen some positive action by the Uzbek government, but it has a long way to go in terms of allowing political freedoms and space for pluralism," Abdurahmon Tashanov, who heads the Ezgulik Human Rights Society, told VOA from Tashkent. "The state must ease the registration of nongovernmental organizations and political parties. The authorities don't seem to want to take these steps."

Last week, President Mirziyoyev voiced support of journalists and bloggers, "confessing" that many around him want to suppress media freedom. He claims he is open to constructive criticism.

"Freedom of expression and media are basic rights to be enjoyed by everyone, not because the president backs them or wants to allow them," Tashanov said.

As a witness to the repressions under the previous Uzbek leader Islam Karimov, Tashanov sees two clear paths for his country: true democratic reforms or further authoritarianism.

American officials say Washington will remain on the side of reforms, and not just in Uzbekistan, advancing "our shared goal of a prosperous, secure and democratic region."
The World Food Program said Monday that without an urgent injection of $450 million it will not be able to maintain emergency food assistance this year in Syria, including to people impacted by the recent earthquake.

Without sufficient resources, we will have to do cuts, said Ross Smith, WFP Deputy Country Director for Syria. We will have to cut significantly the number of people we provide support to, and thats going to come on top of an earthquake crisis and an economic crisis.

He told reporters in a video briefing from Damascus that the food agency projects they will have to cut 50-60% of the 5.5 million Syrians they assist monthly if they are not assured of the funds within the next two to three months.

Due to a dozen years of civil war, more than 12 million people are food insecure in Syria and another 3 million are at risk of it. A spiraling economic crisis over the last three years has dragged more Syrians into poverty.

The average monthly salary in Syria, the family can afford three days' worth of food, Smith said. Its quite shocking, and when you go out on the streets and you see it, you can really see some of the desperation there.

The February 6 earthquake, which killed at least 5,900 people and injured thousands more in Syria, has only increased the suffering and added to a complex humanitarian response.

WFP was already present across the country, had supplies in warehouses and was able to reach people in the immediate aftermath. Since the quake, Smith said WFP has provided ready-to-eat meals and other rations to 1.5 million Syrians in the quake affected areas  both in government controlled and opposition held areas.

On February 13, the government of President Bashar al-Assad agreed to temporarily open two additional border crossings from Turkey into Syria in order to help humanitarians speed supplies to the hardest hit areas. Since then, Smith said WFP is using them, and along with the one existing crossing point, more than 400 aid trucks have crossed, including at least 190 from the food agency.

For years, the Syrian government has insisted that the U.N. and its partners should move aid across conflict front lines from Damascus, but Smith and other U.N. officials have confirmed that since the quake not a single crossline convoy has received the necessary permissions and guarantees to move.

We are standing by, and we are ready to move with convoys from Aleppo crossline, Smith said. Its important all partners with influence keep pushing for this.

WFP Executive Director David Beasley was in the region over the weekend, and he called for local authorities to work with humanitarians to improve crossline access.



The WFP chief also joined an aid convoy going through the Bab al-Hawa border crossing from Turkey into northwest Syria. He described the situation in Syria as a catastrophe on top of a catastrophe.



The U.N.s pre-earthquake 2023 humanitarian appeal for Syria was $4.5 billion, which has only been 4% funded.
The Ghana Health Service says a shortage of routine vaccines for children blamed for a measles outbreak that infected 120 will be resolved within weeks. Health officials said the shortage of vaccines against polio, hepatitis B, and measles was caused by the depreciation of Ghana's currency, the cedi. The Pediatric Society of Ghana warned childhood diseases could quickly spread if the vaccines were not soon made available.



For months, nursing mothers have been complaining of shortage of vaccines meant for babies from birth to at least 18 months.

The situation became worse in February after major health facilities in 10 out of the 16 administrative regions of Ghana kept turning nursing mothers away due to erratic supply.

Vivian Helemi said her baby girl missed one of the key vaccinations last month and the situation has not changed after combing three health centers on Monday. Like other mothers, Helemi is worried the shortage of the essential vaccines for infants will pose a threat to her child.

It has been frustrating moving from one hospital to another, she told VOA. I dont know what could happen to my baby because she is yet to receive her second vaccination. I am confused because no one is telling me when the vaccines will be ready.

Timely vaccination of children, according to UNICEF, is a proven method for saving lives from vaccine-preventable diseases. It can also help attain some targets like the U.N. Sustainable Development Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.

UNICEFs Ghana office says on its website that the country has seen a significant fall in deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases. For example, since 2003, there has been no death caused by measles, while in 2011, Ghana was certified as having attained elimination status for maternal and neonatal tetanus.

Dr. Agyeiwaa Bonuedie, a member of the Pediatric Society of Ghana, said the government must act now in order not to erode the gains made so far.

Its the first time I am hearing of such widespread shortages. We do have shortages from time to time, however, those are in very limited circumstances. The problem this time is that it has gone over for several months. This should actually be a thing of the past. The government should be encouraged to do what we call ring-fenced funding such that budgetary allocations for vaccines are actually protected, no matter what other dire or pressing needs the country has, the children should be secured in that light, said Bonuedie.



The director-general of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, said the situation will change by the end of March.



We have had some delays in procuring some of those vaccines for which polio, MR [Measles-Rubella], and BCG [bacille Calmette-Guerin] are in short supply. It was also because the ministrys budget to procure them are in cedis, and at the time it was due for procurement, because of exchange differences it was very difficult to procure, so now we have done it we hope that within the next three weeks we will address it, he said.

Parliament has summoned the West African countrys health minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu to discuss the vaccine shortage. The next few weeks are crucial for many children, especially those who live in inner cities and dense parts of urban areas and are exposed to vaccine-preventable diseases at an early age.
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Bolivia's salt flats, colored lagoons and flamingo sanctuaries attract thousands of visitors every year. But climate change and tourists are endangering the countrys rich flora and fauna. Fabiola Chambi reports in this story, narrated by Veronica Villafane.
The United Nations raised $1.2 billion for humanitarian aid to Yemen, but the amount is far below a target of $4.3 billion set by the U.N. to help the war-stricken country.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a global donor conference in Geneva Monday that the United States would give $444 million in humanitarian assistance to Yemen this year and urged other donors to step up their contributions.

The scale of the challenge we face is daunting. But I urge everyone to keep our focus on the people we seek to help, he said.

Blinken said that last years funding shortages for Yemen forced U.N. agencies to scale back operations in the country, including food rations.

With this years donation, the United States total contribution to Yemen since the start of the countrys war is $5.4 billion, according to Blinken.

About two-thirds of Yemens population  more than 21 million people  need humanitarian and protection services, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.



U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told donors Monday, The people of Yemen deserve our support. But more than that, they deserve a credible path out of perpetual conflict and a chance to rebuild their communities and country.

Yemens conflict, which began in 2014, pits a Saudi-led military coalition against an Iran-aligned rebel Houthi group. The rebel group ousted Yemens internationally recognized government from the capital, Sanaa, in 2014 and now controls much of the north of the country.

A U.N.-brokered truce last April has largely stopped the fighting, despite the truce expiring last October without an agreement by the two sides to renew it.

The war has left tens of thousands of people dead and devastated the countrys economy.

The U.N.s World Food Program feeds 13 million people in Yemen.

The World Health Organization says medical facilities have repeatedly been attacked in Yemen and said the agency needs $392 million this year to ensure health facilities remain functioning, providing basic medical services to the most vulnerable people.

The Norwegian Refugee Council aid group said the donations pledged Monday were inadequate.

The international community today showed it has abandoned Yemen at this crucial crossroads, said Erin Hutchinson, the groups Yemen country director.

Globally, the United Nations is seeking a record $51.5 billion for aid this year, and the U.N. acknowledged that crises around the world are straining donors.

Record global humanitarian needs are stretching donor support like never before, but without sustained support for the aid operation in Yemen, the lives of millions of Yemenis will hang in the balance, the U.N. said in a statement.

Mondays donor event was co-hosted by Sweden and Switzerland.

Some information in this report came from the Associated Press and Reuters.
Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission has begun announcing official results from Saturdays presidential election. But just minutes into the national tally Monday, party agents challenged the outcomes. Last weekend's polls were marred by delays and technical problems that saw thousands of voters hit the streets Sunday in protest.



The Abuja national collation center opened at midday Monday for the second day of vote counting.

Officials from Nigeria's electoral body INEC along with election observers, party members and journalists were present.



INEC announced early results from four out of Nigeria's 36 states putting the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the lead.



Ekiti, Osun, Ondo and Kwara states are considered strong bases for the incumbent APC party.



But the announcement of results was met with resistance from political parties. They said INEC's field officers failed to upload the latest results from polling units in order to manipulate the figures.

INEC's Mahmood Yakubu addressed the issue.

"The law does not require that collation should be done on the basis of results transmitted, it's on the basis of results carried forward manually, physically to the various collation centers, but when there are discrepancies, it is the transmitted results that should be used to dissolve the discrepancies, he said.



All three top contenders have questioned the vote counting, including Nigerias Labor Party.

During a media briefing Sunday, the party said it will only accept results that corroborate with their agents tallies at polling units.

The elections Saturday were marred by widespread delays, technical difficulties with the voting machines, and threats of violence and insecurity. The delays forced INEC to extend voting into a second day on Sunday.

But some eligible voters did not get a chance to cast their ballots.

On Sunday, hundreds including Abuja resident Kingsley Francis waited several hours for electoral officials to arrive.

"We had to queue, I was number one to be accredited but after the accreditation no paper was given to me. Other people were getting accreditation, no paper was given to them," he said.

Local and international observers are also raising concerns.

Former Sierra Leone President Ernest Bai Koroma, head of the election observation team for regional bloc ECOWAS, spoke to journalists.



At the end of our observations, we will make recommendations on how to improve the process because elections in our region are evolving. And we must continue improving and trying to harmonize them," he said.

The race to replace outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to be highly competitive.

Candidates for the biggest parties, PDP and APC, are facing a fierce challenge from the Labor Partys Peter Obi. Obi is mostly backed by young people, who accounted for over 80 percent of the 10 million first time voters.
On Monday, the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) decided to convert 88.890583% of the shares of the First Investment Bank (PINbank, Kyiv) owned by Russian citizen Yevgeny Giner into state income.

"On February 27, a HACC panel of judges satisfied a claim of the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine against a Russian citizen ... By a court decision, the defendant's assets were recovered to the state's income - 88.890583% of the shares of a Ukrainian bank," the HACC said in a statement.

PINbank in terms of total assets (UAH 1 billion 206.97 million) ranked 57th among 67 banks operating in the country at the end of 2022. According to the NBU, it ended 2022 with a net loss of UAH 136.6 million. At the end of the year, it owned government bonds worth UAH 570 million.

Prior to the full-scale war, at the end of 2021, Oleksandr Yaroslavsky's Credit Dnipro bank announced its desire to buy PINbank.

As reported, in early February, the National Bank declared Forward Bank insolvent, the ultimate beneficial owner of which was another Russian citizen, Rustam Tariko, to which personal sanctions were also applied by the presidential decree in October 2022.
French President Emmanuel Macron is set to deliver an address Monday unveiling Frances new Africa strategy.

Later in the week, the French leader travels to Gabon, Angola, the Republic of Congo and Congo.

Macrons visit to Africa comes as many nations there have expressed an anti-France sentiment that has included street protests in some West and North African countries.

France is also finding that its long economic ties with Africa are starting to fray as Russia, China and Turkey make inroads.

In addition, Mali has replaced the French troops stationed there with Russian military contractors, something France would not like to see replicated.

The French leader will also attend a forest-themed climate summit in Gabon.
Iran has handed the Afghan embassy in Tehran over to the Taliban, becoming the latest country to accept Taliban-appointed diplomats without recognizing their 18-month-old government in Kabul.



The Taliban foreign ministry said Monday that it had dispatched a seven-member team of experienced diplomats, led by a newly appointed charge daffaires" to the Iranian capital to formally assume the charge of Afghanistans diplomatic mission there.



The statement described the development as an important and cooperative step in bilateral relations between Afghanistan and Iran.



We believe that with the new appointments, we would witness transparency in the affairs of the embassy as well as expanded relations in various fields between the two Muslim and brotherly countries, Ministry spokesman Abdul Qahar Balkhi said.



Iran joins several neighboring and regional countries to have allowed the Taliban to appoint staff to and manage Afghan diplomatic missions in their respective territories. They include Pakistan, China, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Russia, Turkey, Qatar, Malaysia, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, Balkhi claimed in written comments to VOA.



He said his ministry had already introduced new diplomats to missions in these countries. Balkhi, identified Tajikistan as the only neighbor of Afghanistan where they have not appointed new diplomats, saying the head of the embassy there is not cooperative.



Analysts said the growing threat of terrorism posed by Islamic States Afghan affiliate, known as Islamic State Khorasan Province, had apparently prompted Tehran to work closely with the Taliban to keep the terrorist group from the Iranian border.

Torek Farhadi, a former Afghan official, and political commentator noted that millions of Afghans had taken refuge in Iran after fleeing the Soviet occupation of their country in the 1980s and subsequent conflicts that engulfed Afghanistan.



Currently thousands of Afghans cross the border daily to Iran from Afghanistan to migrate to Turkey and Europe, human trafficking is rife, Farhadi said. Iran needs good relations with the Taliban and has turned over the embassy to Taliban representatives as a practical matter to handle day-to-day affairs, without recognizing the [Kabul] regime, he added.



An Afghan opposition armed group, operating out of Tajikistan, slammed the Iranian government for allowing the Taliban to run the embassy in Tehran.



The National Resistance Front (NRF) expresses its regret over the taking over of Afghanistan's prestigious diplomatic mission by a criminal group," said the group in a statement.



Iran also maintains good ties with the NRF leadership and other prominent Afghans who have taken refuge in the country and elsewhere after fleeing the Taliban takeover.



The political presence of the Taliban in Iran is perilous, especially for the millions of refugees who have sought protection in Iran from the fear, threats, and pressure, the NRF asserted.



Dozens of Afghanistans diplomatic missions around the world are open for business but in most cases, the host nations have either refused to hand them over to the Taliban, or Afghan diplomats working there are reportedly unwilling to work with the new Kabul administration.



The international community has not recognized the Taliban since they stormed back to power in August 2021 as the U.S.-led Western troops exited the country after almost 20 years of war.



Foreign governments demand the Taliban keep their promises to respect human rights, give women access to education and work, cut ties with terrorist groups, and form an inclusive government representing all groups in Afghanistan.
Israel sent hundreds more troops to the occupied West Bank on Monday, a day after a Palestinian gunman killed two Israelis and settlers rampaged through a Palestinian town, torching homes and vehicles in the worst such violence in decades.

The responses to the rampage laid bare some rifts in Israel's new right-wing government, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appealing for calm while a member of his ruling coalition praised the rampage as deterrence against Palestinian attacks.

The events also underscored the limitations of the traditional U.S. approach to the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict: Washington has been trying to prevent escalation while staying away from the politically costly task of pushing for a resolution of the core disputes.

As the violence raged in the West Bank, such an attempt at conflict management was taking place Sunday in Jordan, with the U.S. bringing together Israeli and Palestinian officials to work out a plan for de-escalation.

Sunday's events kicked off when a Palestinian gunman shot and killed brothers Hillel and Yagel Yaniv, ages 21 and 19, from the Jewish settlement of Har Bracha, in a shooting ambush in the Palestinian town of Hawara in the northern West Bank. The gunman fled.

Following the shooting, groups of settlers rampaged along the main thoroughfare in Hawara, which is used by both Palestinians and Israeli settlers. In one video, a crowd of settlers stood in prayer as they stared at a building in flames.

Labor Party leader Merav Michaeli condemned the rampage as a pogrom by armed militias of West Bank settlers.

Late Sunday, a 37-year-old Palestinian was shot and killed by Israeli fire, two Palestinians were shot and wounded and another was beaten with an iron bar, Palestinian health officials said. Some 95 Palestinians were being treated for tear gas inhalation, according to medics.

On Monday morning, the Hawara thoroughfare was lined with rows of burned-out cars and smoke-blackened buildings. Normally bustling shops remained shuttered. Palestinian media said some 30 homes and cars were torched.

Sultan Farouk Abu Sris, a shop owner in Hawara, said he briefly went outside and saw scores of settlers setting containers and a home on fire. They didnt leave anything. They even threw tear gas bombs, he said. Its destruction. They came bearing hatred.

At the scene of the shooting, Defense Minister Yoav Galant told reporters that Israel cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their hands, but stopped short of outright condemning the violence.

I ask everyone to heed the law and especially to trust in the army and security forces, he said

The Yaniv brothers were to be laid to rest in Jerusalem on Monday.

Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, an Israeli military spokesman, described the situation as a tense quiet. He said the army deployed hundreds of additional troops to the area with the aim of de-escalation. Two battalions were sent late Sunday and a third on Monday, with several hundred soldiers each.

The army has not caught the Palestinian gunman. Israeli police spokesman Dean Elsdunne said eight Israelis were detained in connection with Sundays rioting, and that six had already been released.

Israeli troops also began removing settlers from a previously evacuated settlement outpost near the West Bank city of Nablus. Several settlers had camped there following Sunday's deadly shooting, Israel's public broadcaster Kan reported.

Speaking at a settlement outpost reoccupied by Jewish settlers after Sundays shooting, the firebrand Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, the leader of the Jewish Power party, called for a real war on terrorism" and legalizing the outpost, which troops were once again clearing.

We must crush our enemies," he said in response to the Palestinian attack. As for the settler violence, he added: I understand the hard feelings, but this isnt the way, we cant take the law into our hands.

While Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog urged settlers not to engage in vigilante actions, other members of the ruling coalition fanned the flames.

Tzvika Foghel, a lawmaker from the ultra-nationalist Jewish Power party, said the rampage would help deter Palestinian attacks. I see the result in a very good light, he told Army Radio when asked about what the interviewer referred to as a pogrom.

Sundays violence has drawn condemnation from the international community. U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price said the shooting attack and the rampage underscore the imperative to immediately de-escalate tensions in words and deeds.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said he held the Israeli government responsible for what he called the terrorist acts carried out by settlers under the protection of the occupation forces tonight.

The violence erupted shortly after the Jordanian government hosted talks at the Red Sea resort of Aqaba aimed at de-escalating tensions ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The Palestinians claim the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza Strip  areas captured by Israel in the 1967 Mideast war  for a future state. Some 700,000 Israeli settlers live in the West Bank and east Jerusalem. The international community overwhelmingly considers Israel's settlements as illegal and obstacles to peace.

So far this year, 62 Palestinians, about half of them affiliated with armed groups, have been killed by Israeli troops and civilians. In the same period, 14 Israelis have been killed in Palestinian attacks.

Last year was the deadliest for the Palestinians in the West Bank and east Jerusalem since 2004, according to figures by the Israeli rights group BTselem. Nearly 150 Palestinians were killed in those areas, Some 30 people on the Israeli side were killed in Palestinian attacks.

The West Bank is home to a number of hard-line settlements  several of them in the immediate vicinity of Hawara  whose residents frequently vandalize Palestinians land and property.
U.S. first lady Jill Biden made a high-profile visit to a tiny Kenyan community to draw attention to the severe drought that has gripped East Africa and created an unprecedented food insecurity crisis in Kenya.

The United States has provided the lions share of humanitarian aid to East Africa after rains failed here for a third straight year, causing unprecedented hunger that stretches from Somalia to this dusty Maasai village just three hours from Kenyas capital, Nairobi.

The U.N. chief for Kenya told VOA that 6 million people are on the brink of extreme hunger this year and that the situation is exacerbated by the food-supply crisis caused by the conflict in Ukraine.

But the worlds richest nation cant walk this road alone, Biden said after her visit to the Maasai village which is suffering the worst drought seen in this area in seven generations. The trip came at the end of a five-day visit that took her to Kenya and the Southwest African nation of Namibia.

The United States is providing 70% of the budget, the money, that's coming into this region. But we cannot be the only ones, she told reporters after her 90-minute visit. We need to have other countries join us in this global effort to help these people of the region.

To get there, Biden made a three-hour journey to remote southern Kenya, near the border with Tanzania. The drive took her large motorcade through villages with emaciated cows, dried-up creek beds and packed churches on a hot, bright Sunday morning  all the way to a remote church that serves as an humanitarian assistance station.

In Lositeti, Biden was greeted by thousands of residents of the largely Maasai community  many who had walked from within a 40-kilometer radius to reach the areas only water point. A group of residents sang and danced as they draped Biden in a bright red shuka, the traditional robe worn by the pastoralist people who are famed for their skill as warriors and hunters.

Biden sat with a small group of women under a lone tree and for 30 minutes, asked them questions, with the help of an interpreter, about their experience of this crisis, which the United Nations resident coordinator in Kenya, Stephen Jackson, said is driven by climate change and exacerbated by the global food supply crisis.

Biden did not ask the women about the multiple drivers of their predicament.

"How does this compare to previous droughts in your lifetime?" she asked a woman who said she was a grandmother.

How do you find work now? she asked a woman who said her cattle had died.

How many of your children cannot go to school? she asked another.

How old is your baby? she asked a woman  who was breastfeeding her eager 7-month-old son  while speaking softly to the group of White House and U.S. aid officials, watched by several thousand community members and a dozen Kenyan and American journalists.

The women Biden questioned responded quietly, many in the Maa language. Afterward, Biden shared what they said with the gathered press.

They talked about how their livestock are dying, she said. Obviously, you can see the drought here, how bad it is. The one source of water here feeds 12 villages, and each village has approximately a thousand to 1,200 people.

Brenda Kariuki, the World Food Programs Nairobi-based head of advocacy and communication, told VOA that the need across the East African region  which includes Somalia and Ethiopia  is vast.

We require $6.5 billion in 2023 alone to continue feeding the people that need it, she told VOA. WFP is aiming to reach 45 million people. Thats a significant task, and we can't do it on our own. So, we look to our donors, our partners, our governments to really step up and make sure no one goes to bed without food.

U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman said the country needs more than a short-term fix.

I would just underscore what Dr. Biden said, is that everyone needs to help as best we can, she told journalists. Because this is going to continue for the foreseeable future. And this is very personal, and thank you for shining a light on the world so you're an extension of their voices.

Kariuki said a high-profile visit to a crisis area can make a big difference.

The presence of the first lady of the U.S. in the region, especially at a time when we have a food insecurity crisis, is a significant moment, she said. And I think she brings attention to a challenge that the region will have to address ... which is with food assistance and ensuring that people are not dying and going to bed hungry every night, but also to bring their attention to the world.

Amos Wangwa contributed to this report.
Madonna Thunder Hawk remembers the firefights.

As a medic during the occupation of Wounded Knee in early 1973, Thunder Hawk was stationed nightly in a frontline bunker in the combat zone between Native American activists and U.S. government agents in South Dakota.

I would crawl out there every night, and wed just be out there in case anybody got hit, said Thunder Hawk, of the Oohenumpa band of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, one of four women assigned to the bunkers.

Memories of the Wounded Knee occupation  one in a string of protests from 1969 to 1973 that pushed the American Indian Movement to the forefront of Native activism  still run deep within people like Thunder Hawk who were there.

Thunder Hawk, now 83, is careful about what she says today about AIM and the occupation, but she cant forget that tribal elders in 1973 had been raised by grandparents who still remembered the 1890 slaughter of hundreds of Lakota people at Wounded Knee by U.S. soldiers.

Thats how close we are to our history, she told ICT recently. So anything that goes on, anything we do, even today with the land-back issue, all of that is just a continuation. Its nothing new.

Other feelings linger, too, over the tensions that emerged in Lakota communities after Wounded Knee and the virtual destruction of the small community. Many still dont want to talk about it.

But the legacy of activism lives on among those who have followed in their footsteps, including the new generations of Native people who turned out at Standing Rock beginning in 2016 for the pipeline protests.

For me, its important to acknowledge the generation before us  to acknowledge their risk, said Nick Tilsen, founder of NDN Collective and a leader in the Standing Rock protests, whose parents were AIM activists. Its important for us to honor them. Its important for us to thank them.

Akim D. Reinhardt, who wrote the book, Ruling Pine Ridge: Oglala Lakota Politics from the IRA to Wounded Knee, said the AIM protests had powerful social and cultural impacts.

Collectively, they helped establish a sense of the permanence of Red Power in much the way that Black Power had for African Americans, a permanent legacy, said Reinhardt, a history professor at Towson University in Towson, Maryland.

It was the cultural legacy that racism isnt OK and people dont need to be quiet and accept it anymore," he said. "That its OK to be proud of who you are.

A series of events in South Dakota in recent days recognized the 50th anniversary of the occupation, including powwows, a documentary film showing and a special honor for the women of Wounded Knee.

'Thunderbolt' of protest

The occupation began on the night of Feb. 27, 1973, when a group of warriors led by Oklahoma AIM leader Carter Camp, who was Ponca, moved into the small town of Wounded Knee. The group took over the trading post and established a base of operations along with AIM leaders Russell Means, of the Oglala Sioux Tribe; Dennis Banks, who was Ojibwe; and Clyde Bellecourt, of the White Earth Nation.

Within days, hundreds of activists had joined them for what became a 71-day standoff with the U.S. government and other law enforcement.

It was the fourth protest in as many years for AIM. The organization formed in the late 1960s and drew international attention with the occupation of Alcatraz in the San Francisco Bay from 1969-1971. In 1972, the Trail of Broken Treaties brought a cross-country caravan of hundreds of Indigenous activists to Washington, D.C., where they occupied the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs headquarters for six days.

Then, on Feb. 6, 1973, AIM members and others gathered at the courthouse in Custer County, South Dakota, to protest the killing of Wesley Bad Heart Bull, who was Oglala Lakota, and the lenient sentences given to some perpetrators of violence against Native Americans. When they were denied access into the courthouse, the protest turned violent, with the burning of the local chamber of commerce and other buildings.

Three weeks later, AIM leaders took over Wounded Knee.

It had been waiting to happen for generations, said Kevin McKiernan, who covered the Wounded Knee occupation as a journalist in his late 20s and who later directed the 2019 documentary film, From Wounded Knee to Standing Rock.

If you look at it as a storm, the storm had been building through abuse, land theft, genocide, religious intoleration, for generations and generations, he said. The storm built up, and built up and built up. The American Indian Movement was simply the thunderbolt.

The takeover at Wounded Knee grew out of a dispute with Oglala Sioux tribal leader Richard Wilson but also put a spotlight on demands that the U.S. government uphold its treaty obligations to the Lakota people.

By March 8, the occupation leaders had declared the Wounded Knee territory to be the Independent Oglala Nation, granting citizenship papers to those who wanted them and demanding recognition as a sovereign nation.

The standoff was often violent, and supplies became scarce within the occupied territory as the U.S. government worked to cut off support for those behind the lines. Discussions were ongoing throughout much of the occupation, with several government officials working with AIM leaders to try and resolve the issues.

The siege finally ended on May 8 with an agreement to disarm and to further discuss the treaty obligations. By then, at least three people had been killed and more than a dozen wounded, according to reports.

Two Native men died. Frank Clearwater, identified as Cherokee and Apache, was shot on April 17, 1973, and died eight days later. Lawrence Buddy Lamont, who was Oglala Lakota, was shot and killed on April 26, 1973.

Another man, Black activist Ray Robinson, who had been working with the Oglala Sioux Civil Rights Organization, went missing during the siege. The FBI confirmed in 2014 that he had died at Wounded Knee, but his body was never recovered. A U.S. marshal who was shot and paralyzed died many years later.

Camp was later convicted of abducting and beating four postal inspectors during the occupation and served three years in federal prison. Banks and Means were indicted on charges related to the events, but their cases were dismissed by a federal court for prosecutorial misconduct.

Today, the Wounded Knee National Historic Landmark identifies the site of the 1890 massacre, most of which is now under joint ownership of the Oglala Sioux and Cheyenne River Sioux tribes.

The tribes agreed in 2022 to purchase 40 acres that included the area where most of the carnage took place in 1890, the ravine where victims fled and the area where the trading post was located.

The purchase, from a descendant of the original owners of the trading post, included a covenant requiring the land to be preserved as a sacred site and memorial without commercial development.

And though internal tensions emerged in the AIM organization in the years after the Wounded Knee occupation, AIM continues to operate throughout the U.S. in tribal communities and urban areas.

In recent years, members participated in the Standing Rock protests and have persisted in pushing for the release from prison of former AIM leader Leonard Peltier, who was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder despite inconsistencies in the evidence in the deaths of two FBI agents during a shootout in 1975 on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

A new generation

Tilsen, now president and chief executive of NDN Collective, an Indigenous-led organization centered around building Indigenous power, traces the roots of his activism to Wounded Knee.

His parents, JoAnn Tall and Mark Tilsen, met at Wounded Knee, and he praises the women of the movement who sustained the traditional matriarchal system during the occupation.

I grew up in the American Indian Movement, said Tilsen, a citizen of the Oglala Lakota Nation. It wasnt a question about what you were fighting for. You were raised up in it. In fact, if you didnt fight, you werent going to live.

Tilsen credits AIM and others for most of the rights Native Americans have today, including the ability to operate casinos and tribal colleges, enter into contracts with the federal government to oversee schools and other services, and religious freedom.

He said the movement showed the world that tribes were sovereign nations and their treaties were being violated. And when AIM and spiritual leaders such as Henry Crow Dog, Leonard Crow Dog and Matthew King joined the fight, it became intergenerational.

It became a spiritual revolution, he said. It also became a fight that was about human rights. It became a fight that was about where Indigenous people arent just within the political system of America, but within the broader context of the system; of the world.

Tilsen appreciates that his parents were willing to participate in an armed revolution to achieve one of their dreams of establishing KILI radio station, known as the Voice of the Lakota Nation, which began operating in 1983 as the first Indigenous-owned radio station in the United States.

The Dakota Access Pipeline protest in 2016 became a defining moment for him and his brother. They had wondered, he said, what would be their Wounded Knee?

What made it so powerful and what made it different was that you actually had grassroots organizers and revolutionaries and official tribal governments coming together, too, Tilsen said. I think that Standing Rock in particular actually reached way further than Wounded Knee because of how the issue was framed around water is life.

Alex Fire Thunder, deputy director of the Lakota Language Consortium, said the occupation of Wounded Knee and other activism helped revitalize Indigenous languages and cultures. His mother was too young to have participated in the occupation but he said she remembered visits from AIM members in the community.

The whole point of AIM, the American Indian Movement, was to bring back a sense of pride in our culture, Fire Thunder, Oglala Lakota, told ICT.

Future generations

For Thunder Hawk, the issues became her lifelong work rather than momentary activism.

She joined AIM in 1968 and participated in the occupation at Alcatraz, the BIA headquarters, the Custer County Courthouse and Wounded Knee, as well as the Standing Rock pipeline protest in 2016.

She said work being done today by a new generation is a continuation of the work her ancestors did.

Thats why we were successful in Indian Country, because we were a movement of families, she said. It wasnt just an age group, a bunch of young people carrying on.

She hopes her legacy will live on, that her great-great-grandchildren will see not just a photo of her but know what she sounded like and the person she seemed to be.

Its something that she cant have when she looks at a photo of her paternal great-grandparents.

Hopefully thats what my descendants will see, you know? she said. And with the technology nowadays, they can press a button, maybe, and itll come up.

Frank Star Comes Out, the current president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, also believes its time for the previous generations work to be recognized.

Some of his family members strongly supported AIM, including his mother and father. He said it's important to fight for his people, who survived genocide.

Thats why I support AIM, not only on a family level, he said. I have a lot of pride in who I am as a Lakota.  Times (have) changed. Now Im using my leadership to help our people rise, to give them a voice. And I believe thats important for Indian Country.
A 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit southeastern Turkey on Monday, killing one person, injuring at least 110, and causing a number of already-damaged buildings to collapse.

The new tremor came three weeks after a 7.8 magnitude shook Turkey and Syria and killed more than 50,000 people.

Turkish authorities said that rescue teams were immediately deployed Monday to rescue people from the rubble. A father and daughter who were trapped beneath the ruins of a four-story building they had entered in the town of Yesilyurt to retrieve their belongings after the earlier quake were saved.

Yesilyurt, in Malatya province, was the center of Mondays quake.

Yunus Sezer, the head of Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), said that search and rescue teams had been deployed at five buildings.

The region has had four earthquakes in the past three weeks, as well as more than 10,000 aftershocks, according to AFAD's general director of earthquake and risk reduction, Orhan Tatar.

The earthquakes are expected to have an impact on Turkeys upcoming elections. Current President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is running for another term and faces what is expected to be a tough election in June.

Critics accuse the government of being too slow to respond to the initial quake emergency and opposition parties have said Erdogans government is responsible for the extent of the disaster, due to its failure to enforce building regulations.

At a news conference Monday, Erdogan acknowledged his governments response was deemed by many to be insufficient.

In the first days, we were not able to conduct work as efficiently as we wanted to in [the hard-hit town of] Adiyaman, for reasons such as the destructive impact of the tremors, adverse weather and challenges due to the damaged infrastructure, Erdogan said.

The president said construction to rebuild damaged 309,000 homes would start soon. He said that in March and April, construction will also start on 234,000 new homes, while infrastructure, medical centers, and parks will also be built.

During the huge Feb. 6 earthquake, 173,000 buildings in Turkey collapsed or were severely damaged, making it the worst disaster in the country's modern history

After this latest tremor, AFAD issued a warning on Twitter telling people not to enter or stand near damaged buildings in the earthquake zone.

Some information for this report came from Reuters and The Associated Press.
The big beasts of the telecom industry kicked off their most important annual get-together in Barcelona on Monday, promising to lead a "tsunami of innovation", as they try to shrug off a major slump across the technology sector.

Some 80,000 delegates are expected at the four-day Mobile World Congress (MWC), which is back to near full strength following years of pandemic-related disruption.

Industrial titans like Huawei, Nokia and Samsung are set to showcase their latest innovations, flanked by smartphone makers like Oppo and Xiaomi and network operators like Orange, Verizon and China Mobile.

"We are at the doors of a new change of era driven by the intersection of Telco, Computing, Artificial Intelligence and Web3," said Jose Maria Alvarez-Pallete, boss of Spanish operator Telefonica and current chairman of industry body GSMA, which organizes the Barcelona event.

He promised the telecoms industry would be at the forefront of the "tsunami of innovation", adding: "Without telcos there is no digital future."

But many of the firms are more concerned with finding a path back to profit as the global economy stutters and the wider tech sector slashes thousands of jobs.

In the first clear sign that the ills of the wider tech sector are reaching telecoms, equipment maker Ericsson announced 8,500 layoffs last week.

Overall sales of smartphones last year slumped by 11.3 percent compared with 2021, according to the IDC consultancy.

Research firm Gartner reckons sales of smartphones, tablets and computers will fall again by four percent this year.

And network operators are still struggling to make 5G pay, years after they spent billions in government auctions for the right to use the bandwidth.

'Unsustainable situation'

A hugely popular idea for many at the show is to get the owners of bandwidth-hungry platforms like YouTube, Netflix and Facebook to pay network operators a "fair share".

Christel Heydemann, boss of French operator Orange, said the five largest users  which she did not name  account for 55% of daily traffic on European networks, costing telecoms firms 15 billion euros ($16 billion) a year.

She said it was an "unsustainable situation" and welcomed a public consultation launched by EU commissioner Thierry Breton last week.

But Breton told the MWC on Monday that it was not a "binary choice" or a battle between telecoms and big tech.

He said the idea was for everyone to make sure Europe had the best possible network by 2030 and warned that telecoms firms "will have to adapt to survive".

Critics of the "fair share" narrative point out that customers already pay the operators for use of their networks.

Netflix boss Greg Peters, who is unlikely to be enthusiastic about the fair share proposal, is expected at the MWC on Tuesday.

Huawei center stage



The organizers are trumpeting the return of Chinese delegates as a vital boon to the event.

Chinese firms heavily sponsor the MWC and Huawei is once again getting pride of place, this time hosting the biggest dedicated pavilion in the event's decades-long history.

The Chinese tech giant was the second biggest smartphone maker in the world in 2020 but retreated after US regulators accused it of being controlled by Beijing.

The firm is now under pressure in Europe, where Breton and other commissioners are pushing for its equipment to be removed from 5G network infrastructure.

Huawei boss Eric Xu said before the event he would use the MWC to display products that would "help carriers meet evolving demand and unleash more opportunities for new growth".

In total, GSMA said the four-day show would host almost 750 operators and manufacturers and 2,000 exhibitors.
Russias war of aggression took center stage at the opening of the U.N. Human Rights Councils five-and-a-half-week session in Geneva.

As he kicked off this historically long and politically charged conference, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned what he called the carnage unleashed by Russias invasion of Ukraine, which he said, has triggered the most massive violations of human rights we are living today.

It has unleashed widespread death, destruction, and displacements, he told those gathered in Geneva. Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure have caused many casualties and terrible sufferings.

Guterres presented a gloomy assessment of the state of human rights, noting that the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which sets out the rights to life, liberty, security and many other rights and freedoms, was under assault from all sides.

He warned the erosion of human rights around the world has stalled and, in some cases, reversed progress in human development. He added that extreme poverty and hunger are rising around the world for the first time in decades.

A record one-hundred million people have been forced to flee by violence, conflict and human rights violations, said Guterres. Just yesterday, yet another horrific shipwreck in the Mediterranean claimed the lives of scores of people seeking a better future for themselves and their children.

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said much of the progress made over decades was being reined back and even reversed.

The oppression of the past can return, he said, along with the old authoritarianism, with its brutal limits on freedoms writ large, and the suffocating straitjacket of patriarchy.

The high commissioner added: The old destructive wars of aggression from a bygone era with worldwide consequences, as we have witnessed again in Europe with the senseless Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Rights challenges in Africa

This week, some 150 heads of state, foreign ministers, and other dignitaries will present their priorities and the challenges theyre facing.

Democratic Republic of the Congo President Felix Tshisekedi headed a list of 46 dignitaries scheduled to speak during Mondays opening day meeting.

He told the council that the main challenge facing his country was the cycle of violence and looting of natural resources by terrorists and armed groups since 1994, the year of the Rwandan genocide.

He said some 150 groups, including the M-23 rebels, mainly operate in the provinces of Ituri, Maniema, North Kivu, and Tanganyika.

It is no secret to anyone that they are supported, armed by some states of the region, such as Rwanda and by foreign financial sectors, he said. For 30 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo has been the theater of the most abominable human atrocities.

Rwanda has denied accusations that it has supported the M23 group in eastern DRC. However, United Nations observers and human rights groups have said there is evidence of Rwandan backing for the M23.

Tshisekedi said he is in consultation with 53 armed groups within the context of the Nairobi Peace Process. He said the consultations, which aim to re-integrate the militias into national life, do not include the M23 rebels or the group known as CODECO, a cooperative of militants drawn mainly from the Lendu farming community, which has been accused perpetrating violence against civilians.

Over the course of the coming weeks, the 47-member Council will review the human rights situations in Afghanistan, China, Myanmar, Syria, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Nicaragua, Israel and the Palestinian territories, among others.

It also will address thematic issues, such as torture, violence against children, discrimination, and freedom of religion.

Moscow is set to be represented at the meetings for the first time since Russia suspended its council membership last year.

Some information is from Reuters and The Associated Press.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Monday the situation is becoming increasingly difficult in the eastern city of Bakhmut, where Ukrainian and Russian forces are engaged in heavy fighting.

"The situation is getting more and more complicated," Zelenskyy said Monday during his nightly address.

He said Russian forces are "constantly destroying everything that can be used to protect our positions."

Russia has been intensifying its attacks on several areas in eastern Ukraine, including Bakhmut, a salt-mining town in the region of Donetsk. The ruined city once held about 75,000 people.

Reuters reports that Russian forces have made some progress from the north and south as they seek to encircle the city and cut off Ukrainian forces inside it.

Also Monday, Ukraine continued its push for allies to supply Ukrainian forces with fighter jets despite the latest U.S. assessment that providing F-16s would not be appropriate at this time.

"Every discussion about supplying Ukraine with a new, crucial kind of weapon started with a 'no' and ended with a 'yes,'" Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted. "In the last year, we have unlocked political decisions on six of the seven types of game-changer weapons. The only one left is combat aircraft."

Kuleba alluded to earlier reluctance to send Ukraine tanks and other military aid that its partners ultimately decided to provide.

U.S. President Joe Biden said Friday in an interview with ABC News that on the question of providing F-16s to Ukraine, he was "ruling it out for now."

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told NBCs Meet the Press Sunday that U.S. military commanders believe what Ukraine needs now are tanks, and armored personnel carriers, and infantry fighting vehicles, artillery, and air defense systems up there on the front line.

This phase is about ground combat and being able to have the tools in the hands of the Ukrainians to take the territory back that the Russians are occupying, Sullivan said.

He also said allies are providing Ukraine with spare parts for the Soviet-era MiG-29 and SU-27 fighters that Ukrainian pilots use every day.

Yellen in Ukraine

Also Monday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made a surprise visit to Kyiv, voicing continued U.S. support for the Ukrainian fight against Russias yearlong invasion, echoing Biden during his visit a week ago to the Ukrainian capital.

Yellen met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other key government officials, saying, America will stand with Ukraine as long as it takes. She announced the transfer of the first $1.25 billion from the latest, $9.9 billion tranche of economic and budget assistance from Washington.

She laid a wreath at a memorial wall for Ukrainian soldiers killed in the war, saying, I am witnessing firsthand the devastating toll of [Russian President Vladimir] Putins brutal war.

Yellen stopped to look at a destroyed Russian tank and mobile artillery piece at a city square that was cleared of visitors for security purposes.

In the last year, the United States has given Ukraine more than $13 billion in economic and budget support funding, with an additional $8.65 billion expected through the end of September. The latest funds are part of $45 billion in new military, economic and humanitarian assistance approved by Congress in December.

Yellen said such economic support is keeping Ukraines government and critical public services running, schools open and pensions paid, providing a bedrock of stability that fuels Ukrainian resistance.

A sustained military effort cannot succeed without an effective government at home, Yellen said at the Kyiv Obolon School No. 168, where the salaries of teachers, administrators and support staff are reimbursed from U.S. budget support funds.

UN Human Rights Council

In Geneva, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Russia's invasion of Ukraine "has triggered the most massive violations of human rights" in the world today.

He made the comments as Russia's war in Ukraine took center stage at the opening of the U.N. Human Rights Council's five-a-half-week session in Geneva.

Guterres said Russia's invasion has "unleashed widespread death, destruction and displacement."

Russia withdrew from its seat on the council last year following international pressure over the war in Ukraine.

NATO expansion

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Monday talks with Sweden and Finland about their bids to join NATO will resume next month.

Cavusoglu told a news conference the meeting was set for March 9.

In January, Turkey halted the talks in response to far-right protesters burning a Quran outside the Turkish Embassy in Stockholm.

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO in response to Russias invasion of Ukraine last year. All of NATOs existing members must approve their bids.

Turkey has expressed objections about Sweden, accusing the government of being too lenient toward groups that Turkey considers terror organizations.

Cavusoglu said Monday that Sweden has not lived up to its side of a June agreement in which Sweden and Finland pledged to lift restrictions on selling weapons to Turkey and to intensify work on Turkeys requests to extradite suspected militants.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said during a visit to Turkey earlier this month the time has come to ratify both Sweden and Finland as new NATO members. Only Turkey and Hungary have yet to give their approvals.

Stoltenberg noted Turkeys legitimate security concerns, while also saying Sweden and Finland have both made big steps toward fulfilling their commitments under the deal reached in Madrid last year.

The NATO chief is due to visit Finland on Tuesday.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Any Chinese invasion of Taiwan will likely be accompanied by massive cyberattacks against the West and against the United States, according to a top U.S. cybersecurity official.

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Director Jen Easterly said Monday that Washington and its allies must be prepared for China to create "panic and chaos" in cyberspace.

"A scenario of attacks against our critical infrastructure in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is unfortunately not far-fetched," Easterly told an audience at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh.

An invasion "might very well be coupled with the explosion of multiple gas pipelines, the mass pollution of our water systems, the hijacking of our telecommunication systems, the crippling of our transportation nodes," she added. "All designed to incite chaos and panic across our country and deter our ability to marshal military might and citizen will."

U.S. intelligence agencies and military officials have warned China is actively preparing plans to be able to take Taiwan by force by 2027.

Still, Washington's top intelligence official said earlier this month there is no indication Beijing wants to put those plans into action.

"We assess that China continues to preference a peaceful unification of Taiwan," Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines said during an appearance in New York earlier this month.

But Haines indicated that preference may be waning.

"I think the challenge is that they are likely becoming increasingly pessimistic or skeptical that that is something they can achieve peacefully," she said.

Easterly warned Monday that Beijing's potential preference for aggression, and its likely willingness to lash out in cyberspace, comes as China's leadership increasingly takes a dim view of Russia's "endless missteps" in Ukraine.

"They've seen that Russia, probably for fear of escalation, held off on going after our critical infrastructure," she said. "I think that they'll be less restrained."

Despite considerable concern in the weeks and months before Russian forces invaded Ukraine last year, Moscow has, so far, largely held back from launching major cyber offensives against the West, concentrating most of its cyber activities against Ukraine and Ukrainian targets.

In the minds of Chinese leaders, however, Russia's restraint is a lost opportunity to weaken Western resolve, Easterly said.

"In the event that they [China] go after Taiwan, they're going to want to make sure that they affect the unity that has been forged between the U.S. and our international partners, the unity that's been forged within the U.S.," she said. "They're already costing [us] in attacks against our critical infrastructure that will help them essentially by affecting the will of the American people."
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen in Kyiv, during which he called on the American side to continue strengthening sanctions against Russia.

An important meeting with U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen. The United States has been powerfully supporting us since the first days of this war not only with weapons, but also on the financial front. We really appreciate it, Zelenskyy said on Telegram following the talks.

The Head of State expressed gratitude to the American side for systematic steps to increase sanctions pressure against the aggressor state, at the same time noting the need to further increase sanctions.

It is necessary to further strengthen sanctions to deprive Russia of the ability to finance the war, the president stressed.

According to Zelenskyy's press service, the interlocutors also discussed the restoration of Ukrainian infrastructure destroyed as a result of Russian aggression. The urgency of involving the private sector in the implementation of relevant projects was emphasized.

In addition, the President of Ukraine noted the importance of developing mechanisms for directing the seized Russian assets to the restoration of the state.

During the meeting, attention was paid to the current state of Ukraine's interaction with the IMF and the prospects for the implementation of the Fund's programs.

Zelenskyy also noted the decision of the U.S. administration announced on February 24 to allocate $9.9 billion to Ukraine in 2023 as direct budget support. According to him, these funds are extremely important because they allow covering the unsecured part of the state budget and supporting the segments of the population who need it most.
Italian officials say at least 62 migrants died when the wooden boat they were in broke apart in heavy seas Sunday off the Italian coast. At least 12 of the dead are children.

Some bodies washed ashore at a resort in the Calabria region.

At least 80 people, including those rescued by emergency workers and others who were able to swim ashore after the boat disintegrated, survived the wreck, officials said.

Photos show big chunks of the vessel on the beach near the town of Steccato di Cutro, and pieces of wood and other debris all along the shore.

It's an enormous tragedy, Crotone Mayor Vincenzo said.

One of the men from the ship was taken into custody by Italian authorities on suspected trafficking charges.

Survivors estimate that between 150 to 200 people were onboard the vessel that began its journey a few days ago from Turkey. Officials fear that the death toll may reach more than 100. Many of the migrants were from Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Sergio Di Dato of Doctors Without Borders told the BBC that the survivors are heavily traumatized. He said, Some children have lost their whole family. We are offering them all the support we can.

"The reports of the drowning of over two dozen Pakistanis in a boat tragedy in Italy are deeply concerning and worrisome," Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Twitter. "I have directed the foreign office to ascertain facts as early as possible and take the nation into confidence.



Afghanistans Taliban authorities did not immediately offer any comment on reports that Afghan nationals were also among the victims.



Pope Francis said Sunday, I pray for each of them, for the missing and the other migrants who survived.



Francis also said he also was praying for the rescuers and for those who give welcome to the migrants.

The Mediterranean is a giant mass grave Francesco Creazzo of SOS Mediterranee, an organization that conducts rescue operations in the Mediterranean told the BBC, with tens of thousands of souls in it, and it continues to widen.

More than 105,000 migrants arrived in Italy by sea during 2022, with most coming from Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.

Italy has asked other European Union countries to step up and take in some of the migrants, many of whom are not looking to stay in Italy, but instead are focused on traveling elsewhere in Europe to find work and/or reunite with family members.

Ayaz Gul contributed to this report.
BEIJING  Alexander Lukashenko, the president of Belarus and a close ally of the Russian leader, will visit Beijing this week, China's Foreign Ministry said, as U.S. concerns grow that China is considering providing military aid to Russia.

Spokesperson Hua Chunying said Lukashenko is due to visit Tuesday through Thursday, but gave no details about his agenda.

Belarus has strongly backed Moscow and allowed its territory to be used as a staging ground for the initial invasion of Ukraine a year ago.

Lukashenko has been Belarus' only president since the position was created in 1994, and crushed 2020 protests over his disputed reelection in a vote that the opposition and Western countries regard as fraudulent.

The visit comes as top U.S. officials repeated warnings to China against providing military aid to Russia in its war on Ukraine, saying that would bring heavy consequences.

SEE ALSO:

CIA Director William Burns repeated those earlier statements in an interview due to be broadcast on American channel CBS on Sunday, saying, Were confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment."

However, Burns added, We also dont see that a final decision has been made yet, and we dont see evidence of actual shipments of lethal equipment.

Providing such aid would be a very risky and unwise bet," he said.

Beijing claims to have a neutral stance in the war that began one year ago, but has also said it has a no limits friendship with Russia and has refused to criticize Moscows invasion or even call it that. It has accused the West of provoking the conflict and fanning the flames by providing Ukraine with defensive arms.

It has accused the U.S. of smearing it over the military aid allegations and reiterated that it seeks only peace between Russia and Ukraine.

SEE ALSO:

Beijing on Friday issued a proposal calling for a cease-fire and peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautiously welcomed China's involvement  but said success would depend on actions, not words.

The plan released by Chinas Foreign Ministry mainly reiterated long-held positions, and analysts said Beijing would be an unlikely broker given its close ties to Russia and unwavering stance over the conflict.

However, some observers warned that Ukraine and its allies need to tread carefully, saying that rejection of what China sees as its peace overture could move Beijing closer toward providing arms to Russia instead.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is believed to be preparing to visit Russia sometime in the coming months.
Timothy Obiezu

ABUJA  Polls officially closed for the presidential election in Nigeria, Africa's most populated country, Saturday afternoon. But in some polling centers, voters are still trying to cast their ballots. The Independent National Electoral Commission has said the delay was caused by logistics issues and concerns of insecurity.

Hundreds of voters are still in line to cast their ballots several hours after voting officially ended.

Some of them say they had been waiting in queue since 5 a.m., more than three hours before the polls opened.

Frustration was getting to many.

"I'll sleep here, and I'm ready to sleep until tomorrow. I'm not longer in a hurry. Anytime they're ready, we will be ready, too. I have mattress and my pillow; everything is here already," said this voter.

SEE ALSO:

The Independent National Electoral Commission briefed journalists Saturday afternoon and said the delay has been caused by setbacks in deployment of staff and election materials to those areas, as well as security threats.

INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu said early Saturday that the commission was warned of an attack by bandits in Shiroro local government area of central Niger state and delayed opening the polls there.

Yakubu also said the INEC has received reports of election disruptions  including the theft of voting machines  and violence across many states, including Lagos, Anambra, Katsina, Imo, Delta, Abia, Kebbi and Bayelsa.

Yakubu said security officers responded and retrieved some of the stolen Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAS) and restored calm to these places.

"In Oshimiri local government area of Delta state, thugs attacked a polling unit and two BVAS machines were lost in the process. Similarly, in Katsina state, thugs attacked one of our voting locations and snatched six BVAS machines. But again, we're able to recover and use the spare BVAS machines," said Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC chairman.

The Oshimiri machines were not recovered.

SEE ALSO:

Out of 18 candidates in the race for presidency, three stand a realistic chance.

Across thousands of polling units where voting has been concluded, many praise the INEC for introducing the BVAS technology for the first time in a major national election.

"I've casted my vote and honestly INEC has done a good job, we're not scared of anything. Whoever is verified is inside the system, it's not a manual stuff. Our names are there, informations are there,"said Emeka Okafor who had just voted.



Many here say they will remain in line until they cast their ballot, however long that may take.
NAIROBI, KENYA  It was a Saturday of learning for U.S. first lady Jill Biden in Kenya.

She praised young adults for learning about safe sex and dating practices, attended a meeting of women who created their own banking system and chatted with local entrepreneurs who have been helped by a program that connects tractor owners and farmers.

All three programs aim to help women and young people take control of their lives so they can support themselves and their families. Biden has been highlighting U.S.-backed efforts to empower these groups during a five-day, two-country visit to Africa this week.

These are issues that really all people need to talk about and yet, somehow, they don't, and the consequences of not talking about it are so dire, Biden told dozens of young people after talking with them about safe sex, condom use and birth control at the Shujaaz Konnect Festival, a local youth empowerment event. So, I love seeing the young people here."

At a tent where young people were having networking-like conversations, they showed her a questionnaire they use to spur discussion. The first question: "What would you say if I told you I had a condom in my pocket right now?

Biden laughed. And this is the first time they're meeting? she asked.

A Shujaaz representative said such blunt propositions help teenagers and young adults overcome shyness, saying that it's sometimes easier to ask strangers these types of questions.

Im surprised you dont start with like, Whats your biggest achievement? rather than, I have a condom in my pocket, the first lady said.

The festival is a collaboration with MTV Staying Alive Foundation, which works with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief to help teach young Kenyans how to avoid becoming infected with HIV, which causes AIDS.

Biden, who is on the fourth day of her five-day trip to Namibia and Kenya, has spent the week promoting HIV/AIDS education programs and initiatives that teach woman and young people skills they need to find jobs or start businesses.

Her visit is part of a commitment by President Joe Biden to deepen U.S. engagement with the nations of Africa, many of which feel overlooked by the United States. Part of that effort is also about countering China's influence on the continent that Beijing has achieved through increased trade and spending on roads and other public works projects.

Biden was scheduled to cap her visit by traveling Sunday to an area near Kenya's border with Tanzania to raise awareness about a severe drought that is endangering lives and livelihoods.

Earlier Saturday, the first lady went to a government community center in Kibera, an informal settlement in Nairobi, to attend a meeting of women small-business owners who participate in the Joyful Women program. Founded in 2009 by Rachel Ruto, Kenya's first lady, the program promotes women's economic empowerment and financial inclusion.

Participants create table banking groups, pooling their resources so they can lend each other money they cannot get from traditional banks. Some of the women have used the loans to start businesses. One woman said she opened a day care center.

It's pretty ingenious that women found a way to support other women, to lift them up and to increase economic prosperity for families, right? said Biden, who visited a different empowerment program on a 2010 stop at Kibera.

I've always taught my own daughter and my granddaughter the importance of being financially independent and, so now, here, you've found a way to do your own banking system, which is pretty incredible, Biden said. Her granddaughter, Naomi, 29, sat nearby.

Before taking her seat at the table, Biden was wrapped from the waist down in an apron-like cloth known as a leso or kanga that women wear in the home.

At a separate event, Biden chatted with local entrepreneurs, small farmers and others who have been helped by Hello Tractor, which connects tractor owners and farmers who need the machinery.

The first lady also laid a wreath at the August 7th Memorial Park to honor those who were killed the 1998 bombings of the U.S. embassies in Kenya and in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. More than 200 people were killed, including 12 Americans. More than 4,500 people were wounded.
HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP)  More than 33 million children in several southern African countries have been vaccinated against polio, part of ongoing efforts to eradicate the infectious paralytic disease that has been largely contained in much of the world, the World Health Organization announced on Friday.

About 80 million drops of the inoculation have been placed in the mouths of children across Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe since the launch of an emergency response in March last year, WHO said in a statement.

Malawi detected the wild poliovirus disease in a young child in its capital, Lilongwe, in February last year  the first time the strain was reported in Africa in five years. The virus spread to neighboring Mozambique, causing other countries in the region to be on alert.

Africa was certified as free of indigenous wild polio in 2020, according to WHO, which says the recent strain originated from Pakistan. The South Asian country and its neighbor, Afghanistan, are the only two countries where the virus is still entrenched.

In the latest outbreak, Malawi has reported one case while Mozambique has recorded eight. Mozambique recorded the last confirmed case in August 2022, said WHO.

Although polio has been spreading in numerous African countries in recent years, those outbreaks were linked to viruses originally contained in vaccines, not to the wild virus. In very rare instances, the live virus in the oral polio vaccine can mutate into a version capable of causing epidemics, particularly in populations that havent been immunized.

Polio spreads mostly from person to person or through contaminated water. It attacks the nervous system and can sometimes paralyze people within hours. The disease mostly affects children under five.

Vaccinations will continue in southern Africa so that every child receives the protection they need, WHO's Africa director Matshidiso Moeti said.

At least five vaccination rounds are planned for this year following 19 that took place last year, she said, adding that the region has made huge efforts to strengthen polio detection and control the spread of the virus.
The interim leader of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), Nelson Chamisa, has castigated President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allegedly trying to box his party into a corner in order to spark chaos in Zimbabwe, ahead of the forthcoming presidential, parliamentary and council elections.

Chamisa told NewZimbabwe.com, an online publication, that the persecution of CCC members should stop. He said police have so far denied the party 68 times to hold rallies nationwide.

He castigated Mnangagwas government for locking up CCC Zengeza West lawmaker, Job Sikhala, for allegedly inciting political violence.

The publication qoted Chamisa as saying, I know that Mr. Mnangagwa wants to provoke us so that there is a justification to drive this country into anarchy. We have resisted the temptation because we are nation builders, because we want Zimbabwe to be the best country, the greatest country.

He further noted that now is the time. As I always say, God is in it and no man can stop an idea whose time has come. Continuing and perpetuating the past is simply continuing and perpetuating the suffering, rottenness, brokenness, disappointment and a plethora of unfulfilled and unmet commitments and promises.

According to NewZimbabwe.com, Chamisa said, The situation testifies how sick the nation is, how sick Zimbabwe is. Our politics is broken. Our politics is sick. There is no reason why on trumped-up charges anybody should be incarcerated and placed behind bars. Its vindictive. Its persecution. Its rule by law not the rule of law. Its the weaponization of the law and the judiciary and that is wrong. That is wrong and we must end that this year.

Presidential spokesperson, George Charamba, was unreachable for comment as he was not responding to calls on his mobile phone.
(Alexandria, MN, February 27, 2020)  Long-term recovery is underway for the city of Alexandria and those impacted by the downtown fire Tuesda
Chinas Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis

1. Respecting the sovereignty of all countries. Universally recognized international law, including the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, must be strictly observed. The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be effectively upheld. All countries, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community. All parties should jointly uphold the basic norms governing international relations and defend international fairness and justice. Equal and uniform application of international law should be promoted, while double standards must be rejected.

2. Abandoning the Cold War mentality. The security of a country should not be pursued at the expense of others. The security of a region should not be achieved by strengthening or expanding military blocs. The legitimate security interests and concerns of all countries must be taken seriously and addressed properly. There is no simple solution to a complex issue. All parties should, following the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security and bearing in mind the long-term peace and stability of the world, help forge a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture. All parties should oppose the pursuit of ones own security at the cost of others security, prevent bloc confrontation, and work together for peace and stability on the Eurasian Continent.

3. Ceasing hostilities. Conflict and war benefit no one. All parties must stay rational and exercise restraint, avoid fanning the flames and aggravating tensions, and prevent the crisis from deteriorating further or even spiraling out of control. All parties should support Russia and Ukraine in working in the same direction and resuming direct dialogue as quickly as possible, so as to gradually deescalate the situation and ultimately reach a comprehensive ceasefire.

4. Resuming peace talks. Dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solution to the Ukraine crisis. All efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis must be encouraged and supported. The international community should stay committed to the right approach of promoting talks for peace, help parties to the conflict open the door to a political settlement as soon as possible, and create conditions and platforms for the resumption of negotiation. China will continue to play a constructive role in this regard.

5. Resolving the humanitarian crisis. All measures conducive to easing the humanitarian crisis must be encouraged and supported. Humanitarian operations should follow the principles of neutrality and impartiality, and humanitarian issues should not be politicized. The safety of civilians must be effectively protected, and humanitarian corridors should be set up for the evacuation of civilians from conflict zones. Efforts are needed to increase humanitarian assistance to relevant areas, improve humanitarian conditions, and provide rapid, safe and unimpeded humanitarian access, with a view to preventing a humanitarian crisis on a larger scale. The UN should be supported in playing a coordinating role in channeling humanitarian aid to conflict zones.

6. Protecting civilians and prisoners of war (POWs). Parties to the conflict should strictly abide by international humanitarian law, avoid attacking civilians or civilian facilities, protect women, children and other victims of the conflict, and respect the basic rights of POWs. China supports the exchange of POWs between Russia and Ukraine, and calls on all parties to create more favorable conditions for this purpose.

7. Keeping nuclear power plants safe. China opposes armed attacks against nuclear power plants or other peaceful nuclear facilities, and calls on all parties to comply with international law including the Convention on Nuclear Safety (CNS) and resolutely avoid man-made nuclear accidents. China supports the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in playing a constructive role in promoting the safety and security of peaceful nuclear facilities.

8. Reducing strategic risks. Nuclear weapons must not be used and nuclear wars must not be fought. The threat or use of nuclear weapons should be opposed. Nuclear proliferation must be prevented and nuclear crisis avoided. China opposes the research, development and use of chemical and biological weapons by any country under any circumstances.

9. Facilitating grain exports. All parties need to implement the Black Sea Grain Initiative signed by Russia, Turkiye, Ukraine and the UN fully and effectively in a balanced manner, and support the UN in playing an important role in this regard. The cooperation initiative on global food security proposed by China provides a feasible solution to the global food crisis.

10. Stopping unilateral sanctions. Unilateral sanctions and maximum pressure cannot solve the issue; they only create new problems. China opposes unilateral sanctions unauthorized by the UN Security Council. Relevant countries should stop abusing unilateral sanctions and "long-arm jurisdiction" against other countries, so as to do their share in deescalating the Ukraine crisis and create conditions for developing countries to grow their economies and better the lives of their people.

11. Keeping industrial and supply chains stable. All parties should earnestly maintain the existing world economic system and oppose using the world economy as a tool or weapon for political purposes. Joint efforts are needed to mitigate the spillovers of the crisis and prevent it from disrupting international cooperation in energy, finance, food trade and transportation and undermining the global economic recovery.

12. Promoting post-conflict reconstruction. The international community needs to take measures to support post-conflict reconstruction in conflict zones. China stands ready to provide assistance and play a constructive role in this endeavor.
One killed, four wounded as result of night shelling of Khmelnytsky

As a result of Khmelnytsky's night attack by shock drones, one person was killed, four more were wounded, there is damage to buildings, Mayor Oleksandr Symchyshyn has said.

"Another massive terrorist attack on Khmelnytsky community. This time the enemy used a UAV. Currently, one dead and four injured are known. A number of buildings have been damaged," he said on his Telegram channel on Monday morning.

Symchyshyn said firefighting continues.

Head of Khmelnytsky Regional Military Administration Serhiy Hamaly said the enemy had dealt three blows to the city.

Earlier it was reported that the Russian invaders attacked the territory of Ukraine with 14 strike UAVs, 11 of which were shot down around Kyiv.
Two bulk carriers carrying Ukrainian corn heading for Spain, the Netherlands

Two bulk carriers with nearly 95,000 tonnes of corn left Ukrainian ports on Sunday, the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) has said.

According to JCC, the Amber S vessel will deliver 43,226 tonnes of corn to Spain. The Yasa Emirhan vessel will ship 51,500 tonnes of corn to the Netherlands.

Five vessels are heading to the Ukrainian ports, it said.

"Total tonnage of grain and other foodstuffs exported from the three Ukrainian ports - 22,327,620 tonnes. Total number of voyages enabled  1,524," the JCC said.

"Some 105 applications for participation in the Initiative have been submitted," the JCC said.
Schlein becomes first woman to lead PD.

Italy's centre-left Partito Democratico (PD) on Sunday elected Elly Schlein as the party's ninth leader, replacing Enrico Letta who quit following poor results in last October's general election.

Schlein, who becomes the party's first female leader and at 37 its youngest, saw off the frontrunner Stefano Bonaccini - the president of the northern Emilia-Romagna region - to claim a surprise victory.

More than one million people voted in Sunday's leadership race, far fewer than the 3.7 million who voted in 2007 just after the PD was founded, but still more than expected.

Bonaccini, 56, conceded defeat just before midnight, congratulating Schlein - who took around 54 per cent of the vote - and offering his support.

The new leader will seek to reverse her party's fortunes and shift the PD towards the left, promoting values including LGBTQ rights, gender equality, climate change and labour reform.

Schlein has also pledged to be a thorn in the side of Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni and to challenge the policies of her rightwing coalition.

Speaking on Sunday night, Schlein said the election result represented a "clear mandate for change" and promised that from now on her party "will be a big problem for the Meloni government".

Stefano Bonaccini conceded defeat to Elly Schlein late on Sunday night. Photo Fabrizio Annovi / Shutterstock.com.

Born in Switzerland to an Italian law professor mother and an American political scientist father, Schlein moved to Bologna after graduating in Lugano.

She went on to work as a volunteer in Barack Obama's two presidential campaigns and was a member of the European Parliament from 2014 to 2019.

Schlein's father is of Jewish descent and she holds triple Swiss-Italian-US citizenship.

Pro-European, feminist and bisexual, Schlein is dubbed the "anti-Meloni" by the Italian press while the international media have compared her to US representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Enrico Letta tweeted his congratulations to Schlein on Sunday night, writing: "She will suceed where I have not."

Cover photo credit: MikeDotta / Shutterstock.com
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When the investment bank China Renaissance Holdings said it had lost touch with Bao Fan, its prominent founder, it sent shudders through the investment community. Many feared its a sign another clampdown on the countrys financial industry may be in the works, with new banking and securities watchdogs coming this year. Its not uncommon for executives to go missing in China, a country with a murky legal system. Sometimes they return to work, sometimes they go to prison. In Baos case, the company said about 10 days later only that hes helping Chinese authorities with an investigation Heres whats known about Bao:

1. Who is Bao Fan and what do we know about his absence?

Bao, 52, is one of Chinas most prolific dealmakers. Hes known for being able to broker difficult mergers & acquisition cases, such as ones that led to the formation of Didi Global Inc. and Meituan. A former Morgan Stanley and Credit Suisse banker, Bao is well-known in Chinas business circles for his sprawling connections across industries. Although Beijing-based China Renaissance, which is listed in Hong Kong, said on Feb. 16 that its operations were unaffected by Baos absence, the news has battered its stock. Baos family has been told he was assisting with an investigation  likely related to former China Renaissance President Cong Lin, a person familiar with the matter told Bloomberg News on Feb 17. On Feb. 26, the firm confirmed in a stock market filing that Bao was cooperating in an investigation by Chinese authorities. It provided no further details and suggested it hadnt been in touch with Bao and didnt know where he was.

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2. What does a missing boss mean in China?

Increasingly in China, a suddenly absent boss has come to signal a crackdown or investigation by authorities. In many cases, the person is said to be assisting graft probes, or becomes the subject of an investigation into corruption or financial crimes in China. Often times, the companies themselves report they have lost contact with the boss and need to make their own inquiries into what happened within China, a country that has opaque disciplinary procedures.

3. What happened in the past?

Its not uncommon for executives in China to become unreachable when theyre involved in a government probe. Some were later found to have been detained by authorities, while others eventually returned to their jobs.

 In 2015, Fosun Chairman Guo Guangchang briefly disappeared, to help with a government investigation. He later re-emerged, vowing to ensure the business was not reliant on any one individual.

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 Financier Xiao Jianhua, who ran Chinas Tomorrow Holding Co. empire, was taken away from Hong Kong by Chinese authorities in January 2017, the South China Morning Post reported at the time. In August 2022, Xiao was sentenced to 13 years in prison after the Chinese authorities found him guilty of illegally obtaining public deposits, breach of trust, bribery and the illegal use of funds.

 In August 2018, casino operator Landing International Development Ltd. reported its then-chairman Yang Zhihui had disappeared. But he then returned to the job three months later with the explanation that he was assisting authorities with an investigation. In November 2022, however, Landing said it had suspended Yang after the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong started legal proceedings against him alleging he had breached fiduciary duties related to other business dealings.

4. What does this mean for investors?

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Bosses that go missing underscore a big challenge for China investors: key man risk. When Chinese executives synonymous with their companies come under fire, it typically sparks a tumble in the stock market valuation and investors pay the price. While key man risk is an issue around the world, it can be particularly acute in China because the nations corporate founders play outsized roles. Take the prolonged absence of of Alibaba Group Holdings founder Jack Ma. Although Ma was never reported missing, Alibaba shares took a beating after he disappeared from the spotlight in November 2020, after authorities torpedoed an initial public offering for affiliate Ant Group Co. It also heralded the coming crackdown on Chinas entire tech sector. Ant said this year that Ma, who has kept a relatively low profile ever since, was ceding control of the company.

5. Is another financial industry crackdown coming?

Its not clear, but Baos disappearance has certainly fueled investor jitters. In late 2021, Chinese President Xi Jinping launched a broad anti-corruption probe targeting the nations $60 trillion financial sector, which has brought down dozens of officials. The probe also implicated the investment banking community, ensnaring bankers from brokerages including Everbright Securities Co. and Guotai Junan Securities Co. This year, China is poised to name regulatory veterans known for their strict campaigns against financial wrongdoing as new chiefs of the countrys banking and securities watchdogs, Bloomberg News reported Feb. 17.

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A year after Vladimir Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine, many observers in the West are finally waking up to the reality that most of the world doesnt view the war the way they do. Western sanctions, undermined by non-cooperative Asian, African and Latin American countries, have not only failed to deter Russia from devastating Ukraine. They have helped Vladimir Putin pose as an anti-imperialist and present Russians to people in the Global South as fellow historical victims of the West.

A new report by the European Council on Foreign Relations warns Western leaders that they should abandon their high-flown rhetoric  dont make it all about democracy  and instead seek to build a new world order in partnership with India, Turkey, Brazil, and other emerging powers. Western leaders should treat these countries as new sovereign subjects of world history.

Fair enough. However belated, a mainstream Western reckoning with the diverse historical experiences and opinions of the majority of the worlds population can only be welcome. In rushing to woo the Global South, however, Western policymakers risk repeating past errors.

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It is true that the West urgently needs, as Timothy Garton Ash, one of the reports authors, says, a new narrative that is actually persuasive to countries like India, the worlds largest democracy.

But what would this narrative consist of? And to whom should it be addressed? Ordinary citizens or elites? Civil society or governments? Would the audience for this urgent new narrative include Indian Muslims and Turkish Kurds, two large minority groups maltreated by repressive nationalist-imperialist projects in India and Turkey, respectively?

The report doesnt say. However, its recourse to a hollowed-out phrase, the worlds largest democracy to underline Indias importance to the West raises suspicions. The State Departments spokesperson deployed the same phrase last month, adding the adjective vibrant, when asked to comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modis governments banning of a two-part BBC documentary about the treatment of Indian Muslims.

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At least some Western governments and opinion-makers have decided to ignore or gloss over the assault on democratic rights in nations such as India and Turkey. While the reasons are complex  and have as much to do with the need for allies in what many see as a generational struggle to contain a rising China  Western officials clearly fear that overt criticism will only intensify these countries de facto support for Russia.

This is ominously reminiscent of Western attitudes during the Cold War toward many non-Western countries. Violations of human rights were ignored, and autocratic rulers were tolerated, even fortified, so long as they did not undermine the free worlds efforts to contain the Soviet Union.

Too many societies came to suffer from the Cold Wars ugly assumption that some people deserve freedom and dignity more than others. The popular suspicion of Western rhetoric about democracy that spread then across Asia, Africa and Latin America has only become deeply entrenched since. It partly explains sharply divergent public opinions on the Ukraine war in the non-West.

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Today, everyone is a lot more wised-up, politicized, even cynical, than during the Cold War, thanks to intensified communications and a broader awareness of world affairs. The stakes are also much higher, with politics and economies in turmoil everywhere due to extreme economic and geopolitical inequality, and environmental emergencies.

The West could endlessly flatter the illiberal leaders of the Global South as great historical actors and vibrant democrats and might still fail to reorient their attitudes in its favor: India joined China in abstaining last week from the United Nations vote to condemn Russias invasion.

Instead of yet again expediently legitimizing authoritarian rulers and further damaging its credibility, the West would be better off maintaining its commitment to democracy  and not just rhetorically. It is too easy to throw around the word democracy along with bombastic adjectives such as largest and vibrant. A harder, but essential, task is upholding the core democratic ideals of equality and justice  everywhere. Certainly, those who claim to be fighting for freedom and dignity in Ukraine should not be willing to countenance their destruction in India, Turkey and other likely partners of the West.

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More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 When Putin Invaded Ukraine, What Was He Thinking?: Hal Brands

 Appeasement and Resistance of Putin Are Necessary: Clive Crook

 Ukraine Must Beat Russian Narrative in Global South: Bobby Ghosh

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.

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On Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a new chapter in UK-European Union relations. Its easy to be skeptical at such announcements. Before the champagne corks could pop, members of Sunaks own Conservative party and the Democratic Unionist Party of Northern Ireland attacked previous deals with the gusto of kids set loose on a birthday pinata, spilling its guts all over the floor of parliament. Boris Johnsons deals were like a sugar rush that left Britain feeling flat and regretful.

This one will have to survive scrutiny of the text and no doubt some noisy objections. But there is every reason to expect it will: It removes a range of frictions and red tape that were regular complaints of the Northern Ireland Protocol Johnson negotiated and then sought to override. What has changed since 2018 or 2019 isnt so much the specific solutions, but the world in which the two sides debate the details of customs bar codes and sausage imports.

Assuming the agreement holds, Sunak can take substantial credit not just for returning a measure of financial stability in the wake of Liz Trusss budget fiasco last year, but for providing a more lasting settlement in the thorniest of Brexit issues. And in doing so, he will have restored a measure of diplomatic credibility to the UKs battered reputation.

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The broad parameters of the new Windsor Framework have been floating around for some time, but the details went significantly beyond what was trailed. It establishes green and red lanes to separate goods destined to remain in Northern Ireland (for which all customs bureaucracy will be scrapped) and those at risk of going to the Republic and therefore the EUs single market. From the movement of pets to parcels to plants and steel, red tape, quotas and rules have been scrapped and movement freed. The deal also corrects the anomaly of some goods and medicines that Britons could access being unavailable or hard to get in Northern Ireland. Where Johnsons detail ultimately betrayed Northern Ireland unionists, Sunaks offers them something more concrete than an olive branch.

The EU has agreed to a Stormont brake  named for the legislature in Belfast  to prevent the introduction of new EU rules that would have a substantial impact on Northern Ireland. This aims to address concerns, particularly among unionists, that the Northern Ireland Protocol posed a democratic deficit since Northern Ireland had to follow EU single market rules and regulations without getting any say in them. The UK also won some powers over VAT rates in Northern Ireland, which remained part of the EUs single market after Brexit and so was subject to EU rules for VAT. How all of these things will work in detail will become clearer as lawmakers pick through the text.

Make no mistake: These are significant shifts in what were once immovable EU positions. Back in March 2018, then Prime Minister Theresa May had proposed what was effectively the green-red lane distinction. The idea got the Gallic brush-off from Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier. These proposals run the risk of unraveling our customs code in order to introduce new exceptions. They also bring with them a major fraud risk, Barnier recalled in his recently published diaries. (May stood up in Parliament Monday night to support the new framework, saying it will make a huge difference.)

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Nearly a year later, and desperate for a deal he could sell as a success before elections in December, Boris Johnson accepted controls between Britain and Northern Ireland. His Brexit negotiator, David Frost, surprised EU negotiators by returning with a posse of tax experts on Oct. 16, after the negotiations had concluded, to try to get a rewrite of the VAT chapter. Barnier wasnt having it. On the pretext of being able to assure the UK that control of tax services remains in British hands, what they actually want is to give Northern Ireland a major tax advantage within the single market itself, Barnier wrote. Not a chance.

What made it possible for Sunak? Surely, some of his own personal qualities, very different from the confrontational approach of Johnson or Truss. While many of these solutions were always there, the recent completion of a real-time database (which the UK always argued would make an invisible border possible but struggled to make happen) helped operationalize them. It was also clear that the status quo couldnt hold. The Northern Ireland Protocol Bill sent the UK down the road to a trade war. The issue threatened relations with Washington as the 25-year anniversary of the Belfast Agreement approaches.

The EU, too, realized, that the Protocol had imposed an unfair burden that drove a wedge between constituents parts of the UK and risked undermining the Good Friday Agreement that was underwritten by Europe. Those details may have been the logical consequences of the Brexit decision, but sometimes you can win an argument and lose a friend.

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There will be some who argue that the metaphoric loaded gun of Johnsons Northern Ireland Protocol Bill  which threatened to unilaterally breach the treaty with the EU  pushed the EU to negotiate. Its hard to prove a counterfactual, but that stretches credulity. More likely, it was real guns and tanks in Ukraine rather than Johnsons legislative bludgeon that made the difference. As Sunak and European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen repeatedly alluded in their press conference, geopolitics has returned.

Keir Starmer threw his support behind the new arrangement in Parliament Monday. All eyes, of course, will be on the reaction of hardline Brexiters in Johnsons own party  including one Boris Johnson  and the DUP in Northern Ireland. Neither have the power they once did, especially with publics in both Britain and Northern Ireland keen to see working government and better EU relations.

It would be a disappointment for Sunak if the DUP refused to rejoin the suspended Northern Ireland assembly, but that wouldnt necessarily doom his deal. The fact that Von der Leyen went on to meet with King Charles (which happens at the advice of the UK government), suggests not only that Sunak is confident about his ability to make the agreement stick, but that hes determined to control the narrative and cast the UK-EU relationship as a partnership that has moved beyond Brexit.

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The impact of the deal on the broader UK economy will be limited. Trade with Northern Ireland is a tiny proportion of the UK economy. And the Northern Ireland economy has done very well out of Brexit, unlike the rest of the country, since it uniquely remained part of the EUs single market for goods. Many of the UKs bigger problems are unrelated to Brexit but amplified by the end to labor market mobility, something beyond the scope of these negotiations or any that are envisaged.

But even a big leap from a low base is an advance. Von der Leyen made clear that EU obstacles to Britains involvement in the EUs massive Horizon science funding program would be removed. That will be welcome in universities and laboratories that have faced uncertainty and seen funding cut off because of the impasse over Northern Ireland. This was as close to a kumbaya moment as the UK and EU have had for many years; maybe decades. It should mark the end of the beginning of the post-Brexit era; maybe not the ending many wanted, but one that most will be happy to live with.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

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 Can Rishi Sunak Stand Up to the Last Brexit Holdouts?: Therese Raphael



Northern Ireland and Scotland Are on a Long Road Out of the UK: Max Hastings



The UKs Political Fever Dreams May Finally Be Over: Martin Ivens

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Therese Raphael is a columnist for Bloomberg Opinion covering health care and British politics. Previously, she was editorial page editor of the Wall Street Journal Europe.

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A Norfolk Southern Corp. train carrying plastic pellets, toxic chemicals, cotton balls and beer among other cargo derailed on Feb. 3 in East Palestine, Ohio, setting off both a literal and political fire. The former has since been put out, and the smoke plume has faded from the controlled release of vinyl chloride  a colorless, carcinogenic gas thats used to make hard plastic resin  that the railroad was forced to conduct to prevent a potentially catastrophic explosion. Norfolk Southern has pledged to spend whatever is necessary to clean up the environment, and the Environmental Protection Agency has said the company is on the hook for all of the costs. Chief Executive Officer Alan Shaw first visited East Palestine on Feb. 6, and the company has committed $11.4 million to the community so far, including reimbursements to residents, a donation to the local schools and support for the fire department. But Norfolk Southerns initial communications strategy was slow-moving, procedural and hyperlocal. Once it lost control of the narrative, others were happy to offer their own.

The National Transportation Safety Board released its preliminary findings on the accident last week: The trigger for the derailment was an overheated wheel bearing on the trains 23rd car  a hopper car carrying plastic pellets  and heat sensors on the tracks failed to alert the crew in time. Theres no definitive evidence among the NTSBs preliminary findings that suggests the accident was the result of systemic negligence or a prioritization of profits over safety, and theres no reason at this point to think that many of the sweeping regulations that politicians have proposed in the aftermath, particularly a mandate for electronically controlled pneumatic, or ECP, brakes, would have made much of a difference. But the political finger-wagging has continued.

I spoke by phone on Monday with Shaw about the derailment, the NTSBs preliminary findings and where the company and the rail industry go from here. The conversation has been condensed and edited for length and clarity.

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What was your reaction to the NTSBs preliminary findings?

I understand that every accident is an opportunity to learn what we can do better. The Norfolk Southern crew did everything it was supposed to do. They were operating the train below track speed and handling the train in an approved manner. The thermal sensors and alarms on the wayside detectors worked as designed. The NTSB said there was no evidence of track defects. These mechanisms still didnt prevent it. The NTSB has narrowed in through its investigation on a failed bearing on car 23. This is a plastic-pellet hopper car. Norfolk Southern and the rail industry own no plastic-pellet hopper cars. So the remediation of this and how we address this going forward points directly to an industrywide effort that include shippers and customers and tank-car manufacturers and tank-car lessors and the other railroad operators.

Youve said that the companys investments in safety didnt prevent the derailment. At this point, where do you think Norfolk Southern can get better? What areas are you focusing on?

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Were working with others in the industry to understand best practices for wayside detectors. We have advocated in the past for higher safety standards for tank cars, and we will continue to do so. Were going to look at technology improvements.

Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd. has talked about its use of acoustic detectors that work with the heat sensors to predict when bearings will fail three months before they actually do. Is this what you mean by better technology?

Acoustics are something that will be factored into those discussions, which include technologies and the temperature thresholds. Our thresholds for alarms are among the lowest in the industry. Were going to scan the horizon for solutions.

[Editors Note: Norfolk Southern also uses acoustic detectors as a supplement for its heat sensors. These are dispersed throughout the network, a spokesman said.]

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Theres been so much fixation on regulations for trains bearing hazardous materials in the wake of this derailment, including the acceleration of tougher standards for tank-car durability. That makes sense because of the chemical cleanup that this accident necessitated. But its interesting to me that the car with the overheated wheel wasnt itself a tank car carrying raw chemical inputs. Has the design of hopper cars ever been a point of regulatory focus?

No, I dont think so because typically a hopper car doesnt handle anything thats highly hazardous. As the NTSB looks at the bearing itself on that car, hopefully the entire industry including car manufacturers and leasing companies will take a look at that. We will see what the NTSB finds out about the bearing and what the point of failure was. Absent that, I would just be speculating, and NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy has admonished everyone about that. Were doing the right things with the NTSB.

As you said, shippers and leasing companies own most of the cars that run on the major North American railroads, and Norfolk Southern was not the owner of this particular car. This hasnt been talked about much. Does it frustrate you that so much of the attention has been on Norfolk Southern and not the myriad third parties that are involved in the railroad car business?

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Whether Im frustrated or not doesnt really matter. Ive got to block out the noise. Ive got to stay focused on the mission and make sure that Norfolk Southern is operating with a sense of urgency and working to make the industry safer.

The amount of speculation and misinformation about the derailment has been a source of frustration for you. In hindsight, do you wish you had handled the communications around this accident differently so that you could get out in front of that?

We were very limited in what we can say. This is under the NTSBs purview. Theyre in charge of the investigation, and we are prohibited in talking about it. In this age of social media, that creates a void and a vacuum that tends to get filled in. We have a lot of confidence in the NTSB. Weve made sure we are fully cooperating with the NTSB and the Federal Railroad Administration. Weve gotten feedback from the NTSB and the FRA that theyre pleased with Norfolks cooperation here. Im not sure as far as the cause of the derailment that we could have done things differently.

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People want to understand the cause of the derailment but the local community is also worried about the short- and long-term impact on the environment and their health. Do you wish you had done more and earlier on to answer questions and address concerns?

Ive been there multiple times in the immediate aftermath. Im going back to East Palestine at least twice this week. Ive been holding smaller group discussions with community leaders, faith-based systems, business leaders and regular citizens. What I hear is that this a tight-knit community. These are folks who love living in East Palestine, and they want to see that community thrive. Ive heard from folks who have worked really hard to get to where they are and to get East Palestine to where it is. Theyre looking for information. I immediately came back to my team with a sense of urgency and said we need to set up an East Palestine-specific website. I encourage you to go to nsmakingitright.com. Theres all kinds of information on financial assistance, where to turn for medical help, air testing and water testing. Our family assistance center was set up the day after the derailment. I went there and introduced myself to everyone, told them who I was and who I represented and asked if they were getting everything they needed from Norfolk Southern.

As Ive been talking to folks, if they needed something, I have either delivered it myself or asked family assistance to reach out to them. Because of all this misinformation out there about the health of the community, some travel teams are canceling games in East Palestine and that makes a hole in the sports budget. So I went to my team and said, Solve this, figure out how we can support this; 24 hours later Im in front of the superintendent and we contributed $100,000 each to the local elementary, middle and high school. Thats a down payment.

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I was surprised by the level of misinformation out there about the environmental impact on the community. It was a devastating derailment. I was there. I saw the smoke plume. I know what that looked like. We had air and water monitoring up within hours, and we continue to test to this day. Weve done hundreds of tests between independent environmental contractors, the EPA and local health officials. Weve got thousands of data points that all come back with same thing: the air is safe and the water is safe. With the level of disinformation out there about this  Im not going to repeat it because I dont want to give it any lift  but it does a disservice to the citizens of the community. Theyre tired of the misinformation. They want the good information to get out. Were working with the EPA on a long-term remediation plan. Were continuing to test. Were reimbursing citizens. Were investing in the community to make it thrive, and were working with the entire industry on making it safer.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 Norfolk Southern Cant Dismiss Wreck as Fluke: Brooke Sutherland

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 We Shouldnt Need Bodies to Learn From Ohio Disaster: Faye Flam

 Railroads Get Off Track in Obsessing About Margins: Thomas Black

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Brooke Sutherland is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering deals and industrial companies. A former M&A reporter for Bloomberg News, she writes the Industrial Strength newsletter.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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Chinas parliament  the National Peoples Congress  is meeting for the first time since the end of Covid Zero to hear how the countrys top leaders plan to restart the countrys growth engine. Then the roughly 3,000 deputies will give their ceremonial seal of approval  no surprise  to everything proposed. Still, the annual session is worth watching in that it provides a chance to see Chinas future leaders in action. Li Qiang, whos poised to become the premier and is already the Communist Partys No. 2 after President Xi Jinping, and the new foreign minister, Qin Gang, may even meet the press. The meeting, in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, starts Sunday and is expected to run a week or so.

1. Whats on the agenda?

Last years Covid outbreaks and restrictions ended abruptly after the controls hit economic growth, caused the budget to blow out and led to a wave of anti-lockdown protests. Even after reopening, there are still lingering effects from hurt investor sentiment, dented consumer confidence and isolation from the rest of the world. The NPC will review the governments performance and listen to the economic and policy goals set for the year to aid the recovery. Crucially, the legislature will formally name new officials to government posts, including the premier, vice premiers and other economic and financial leadership roles including market regulators, likely in the final days of the session. The NPC runs alongside the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, an advisory body of party delegates and people from the arts, business and legal worlds. Together, theyre known as the Lianghui, or Two Sessions.

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2. Why are the personnel changes important this year?

Having filled the partys top ranks with his allies at a twice-a-decade congress last October, Xi is seen as the most powerful Chinese leader since Mao Zedong. The likely appointment of more people from his coterie to high posts stokes concern about a lack of voices at the apex of power willing or able to question the leader. It could also mean a further blurring of the boundary between the state and the party.

3. Whos likely for the new lineup?

Premier Li Keqiang and Vice Premier Liu He are expected to be succeeded by Xi allies Li Qiang and He Lifeng, respectively. The premier has traditionally been an important economic role overseeing all government ministries, including the central bank, though the roles influence has diminished under Xi. The vice premier is responsible for economic policy. The NPC also will appoint the central bank governor and finance minister. Peoples Bank of China Governor Yi Gang is widely expected to step down, with veteran banker Zhu Hexin potentially in line to take his place. China is also poised to name regulatory veterans known for their strict campaigns against financial wrongdoing as new chiefs of the countrys banking and securities watchdogs, Bloomberg News has reported.

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4. What is the rest of the agenda?

The NPC will vote on an amendment to a law governing the legislative process and system, and examine reports from the supreme court, the top prosecutor, and the top legislature committee. In addition, it will likely vote on a plan to revamp party and government institutions, which will be debated ahead of time during a party plenary session.

5. What does institutional change mean?

Chinas institutions were last overhauled in 2018 to consolidate the partys power and give Xi more direct control over the country. The changes included a merging of the nations insurer and bank regulators that expanded the central banks authority, and an international development agency for Xis pet project, the Belt and Road Initiative. There are already signs that Xi could be strengthening his influence yet again, with the authorities planning to revive a powerful committee to coordinate financial policy.

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6. What are the new governments priorities?

On top of the list is to help the economy recover from the doldrums of last year, when Covid, a property downturn and a broad crackdown on private technology and education businesses pushed growth to the second-worst level since the 1970s. Now that Covid controls have been dropped, Beijing wants to stabilize the real-estate market and prevent it from triggering a crisis in the banking sector or among local governments that rely on land sales for a bulk of their income. The authorities also are looking to promote domestic investment and consumption in the face of waning global demand for Chinese goods and growing US technology sanctions. In the longer term, China is set to devise ways to reduce income inequality, lift productivity to lower the impact of a shrinking population, and enhance national security and make the nation more self-reliant.

7. What is Xi facing going in?

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Challenges remain. His governments credibility was bruised from the drastic Covid Zero U-turn, with citizens feeling more emboldened to speak out. The economic recovery that has followed the Covid reopening is lopsided, despite a rapid rebound in mobility and demand for services, as weak property sales and exports keep weighing on the industry. On foreign policy, Chinas tensions with the US worsened following the uproar over a Chinese balloon, while its partnership with Russia is becoming increasingly costly on the global stage.

8. How will this compare to recent NPCs?

This years NPC is part of a broader show of the countrys return to normalcy after three years of strict virus rules. Its kicking off March 5, the standard date, as compared to 2020 when the NPC was pushed all the way back to May because of the pandemic. This years meeting is also expected to return to the usual length of more than a week. NPCs in 2020, 2021 and 2022 were shortened and held for just one week.

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In one decade, the risk to U.S. national security secrets has morphed from ideologically driven protesters to digital natives who live life online and think secrecy is for losers.
On Saturday, February 25, the European Union introduced the tenth package of sanctions against Russia, the EU press service has said.

"The Council decided to impose restrictive measures on an additional 87 individuals and 34 entities," according to the communique.

The list of restrictive measures included Russian officials, military leaders, propagandists and, among other things, the former general director of Motor Sich, Viacheslav Bohuslayev. In Ukraine, he is on trial for high treason.

In particular, the sanctions will affect such organizations as Alfa-Bank, Rosbank and Tinkoff Bank, Commercial Vehicles GAZ Group LLC, a number of Rosatom enterprises, the Patriot media group, the National Reinsurance Company, head of Rossotrudnichestvo Evgeny Primakov, authorized to human rights in Russia Tatyana Moskalkova, Deputy Head of the Government of the Moscow Region Vyacheslav Duhin for the deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia, surgeon Leonid Roshal, head of the Council under the Russian president for the development of civil society and human rights Valery Fadeev, the Rosatomflot enterprise that manages the nuclear icebreaker Navy of the Russian Federation, the Russian Ministry of Defense, the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, Deputy General Director of Channel One Kirill Kleimenov, Deputy General Director of the National Media Group Alexander Akopov, military leader Alexei Avdeev, military leader Mikhail Teplinskiy, military leader Sergei Karakaev, Russia Today media group and executive director Kirill Vyshinsky, editor-in-chief of Rossiya 24 Yevgeny Bekasov, editor-in-chief of Li literary newspaper Maxim Zamshev, editor-in-chief of Regnum agency Marina Akhmedova, Sputnik news agency.

The sanctions also affected four Iranian citizens, including the managing director of the aerospace company Qods Aviation Industry.

These sanctions include asset freezes, bans on entry and transit through EU countries, and a ban on citizens and companies in the EU from providing funds to them.

"We will continue to increase pressure on Russia so as long as it takes," EU diplomat Josep Borrell said.
Billions of dollars are accumulating in Moscow beyond the reach of its foreign owners.

Stock dividends, interest payments on bonds and anything else that Western investors didnt sell before the war  its all part of the pile of money thats been trapped by sanctions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives to attend the Glory to the Defenders of the Fatherland concert this week. Credit: AP

The accounts are remnants of whats left of Russias ties to the world of international finance, and another marker of its growing isolation. As Russias invasion of Ukraine begins a second year and anti-war demonstrations take place this week, questions remain about what will happen to the cash stuck in Moscow.

Legally, the money belongs to some of the biggest investment houses, like JPMorgan Asset Management and Schroders, but privately most acknowledge theres no hope of recovery. At least, not while Vladimir Putin remains leader.
But unbeknown to many, the relationship was marred by abuse and coercive control, and the pair separated in 2017. At the time of the killing, Fraser was days away from giving evidence against 46-year-old Basham on an allegation of marital rape, after finding the courage to stand up against a man whose abusive conduct, the judge said, would end his reputation as a good man. Samantha Fraser; and CCTV images of Adrian Basham outside Frasers home and on his motorcycle. In a powerful condemnation of domestic abuse, Taylor said such violence was often invisible in public life and disproportionately committed by men who held reputations as hardworking, reliable fathers and community-minded citizens. Your behaviour towards Ms Fraser within your marriage and your premeditated murder of her to prevent her giving evidence of rape against you is conduct that is selfish in the extreme and displays an extraordinary degree of entitlement, Taylor said.

Loading It was the ultimate act of family violence. You determined her life was expendable ... [and] had the arrogance to think you wouldnt be caught. The couples children were aged nine, seven and five when Basham killed Fraser in the garage of their family home on July 23, 2018. Taylor said on the morning of the murder, Basham went to great lengths to disguise his movements, then approached Frasers home moments after she took their children to school.

After meeting a friend at a cafe, Fraser arrived home at 11.22am. Basham ambushed her in her garage, assaulted her, then put a rope around her neck to make it appear as though she had killed herself. His DNA was later found under Frasers fingernails and on the rope. Samantha Frasers grieving friends and family were at the Supreme Court in Melbourne on Monday to see her ex-husband sentenced for her murder. Credit: Joe Armao Taylor said Fraser failed to answer a call from a friend at 11.36am, or attend a counselling session at noon. When she did not collect her children from school, police were notified.

They found her body about 5.05pm after forcing entry to her home, where they found a three-step ladder tipped on its side near two childrens scooters and bikes. Frasers handbag remained on the front seat of her car beside her mobile phones. Frasers mother Janine Fraser (middle) leaves the court. Credit: Joe Armao An autopsy later found Fraser had more than 40 separate injuries. Her cause of death  hanging in the setting of multiple blunt-force injuries. After committing the murder, it is believed Basham washed the blood off Frasers hair and face, removed her white top and fled the scene.

CCTV captured him running from the home at 12.04pm. His hood was up and his hands were in his pockets. He also appeared to have something stuffed up the front of his jacket, Taylor said. Adrian Basham (right) outside the Supreme Court in March. Credit: Paul Jeffers The killer was later arrested and charged with murder on August 2, 2018. In April 2022, following a five-week trial, Basham was found guilty. Neither Frasers white top nor Bashams distinctive two-toned motorcycle jacket, worn on the day of the murder, have been found.

Loading Outside court, Frasers friends and family sobbed and embraced as they reflected on what they said had been a harrowing few years. Her mother, Janine Fraser, said that at the time of her death, her daughter was preparing to front a campaign against marital rape. She now hoped this would become her legacy. ANROWS data says one in four women are raped in intimate relationships. If this was a virus it would be called a pandemic. Things must change so women are safe, Janine Fraser said. Sam was going to speak to that. Now, we have to be her voice.

Samantha Frasers father, Trevor, outside the Supreme Court on Monday. Credit: Joe Armao Father Trevor Fraser said that when their youngest grandchild was asked to reflect on the case, she replied: There are good things and there are bad things and if you do a bad thing you have to go to prison. A man should not murder his wife. Trevor Fraser said: Theyre the words of wisdom from a five-year-old girl. That sums it up. Samantha Frasers close friend Nadine Leed said Mondays sentence was the right outcome. We got justice for Sam, she said.
An outspoken Liberal backbencher has defended Prime Minister Anthony Albanese against claims he is breaking an election pledge on superannuation, saying Australia needs a debate on the fairness and equity of the tax rules rather than a political argument.

Victorian Liberal MP Russell Broadbent said he did not care whether Albanese might break an election promise, but that it was up to the prime minister and the government to put the case for change if they believed it was in the national interest.

Liberal MP Russell Broadbent says the debate over superannuation is a conversation Australia should have. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Broadbents comments came as social services groups urged the government to slash super tax breaks worth about $52 billion a year to fund more help for people living in poverty.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers will release updated Treasury estimates within days to highlight the cost of super tax breaks and other concessions, and raise the policy debate about whether to change the rules to increase tax revenue and help balance the budget.
Suburbs including Dalkieth and Peppermint Grove recorded the highest median house prices last year, but they werent the most expensive Perth neighbourhoods when measured by the price paid per square metre.

Cottesloe recorded the highest median price per square metre of land at $7260, Domain data for 2022 shows, while a string of other inner-city pockets also commanded a premium for space.

Houses in Crawley averaged $6314 per square metre, while North Fremantle, Jolimont and Swanbourne all sold for upwards of $5000 per square metre.

Perth-wide, the median sits at $1233 per square metre, up 40 per cent over the decade.
WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT

Hong Kong: Police in Hong Kong have charged the former in-laws of a model and influencer with murder, after body parts were found in a refrigerator and a skull believed to be hers was found in a pot at a rural house.

Police charged three men aged 28 to 65 with murder over Abby Chois death, and a 63-year-old woman with one count of obstructing the case.

Those charged with Chois killing included her ex-husband, Alex Kwong, Kwongs brother Anthony and their father Kwong Kau, police said.
Ottawa: Canada will bar civil servants from using TikTok on government-issued mobile devices due to security concerns around data collection.

The social media app, which is owned by Chinas ByteDance, will be automatically removed and blocked from devices starting on February 28, Treasury Board President Mona Fortier announced on Monday (Ottawa-time).

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announces Canada is banning TikTok from all government-issued mobile devices. Credit: AP

Following a review of TikTok, the Chief Information Officer of Canada determined that it presents an unacceptable level of risk to privacy and security, Fortier said in a statement. She said TikToks data collection methods provide considerable access to the contents of the phone.

She added that there is no evidence at this point that government information has been compromised.
China has accused the United States of politicising the coronavirus pandemic again, in response to reports that the US Energy Department had concluded that an accidental laboratory leak had likely triggered the spread of COVID-19 worldwide.

The rebuke on Monday (US time) marks the latest salvo in a running war of words between the two countries over the origins of the virus, an issue that has taken on as much of a political dimension as a scientific one as the rivalry between the two superpowers deepens.

Security personnel guard the entrance to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Credit: AP

COVID tracing is a scientific issue that should not be politicised, Mao Ning, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said of the Energy Departments conclusion. She then repeated calls for the United States to stop defaming China by raising the lab leak theory.

Chinas response adds to the growing friction between Washington and Beijing, following a spy balloon incident and US accusations that China was considering supplying Russia with weapons and ammunition for use in Ukraine.
Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur, who arrived in Kyiv on a visit, expressed words of support for Ukraine and announced another aid package, including the Role 2 mobile field hospital, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry said.

Pevkur assured that Estonia will help Ukraine win this war. He also announced another package of assistance to Ukraine, which will include important things for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, according to his statement, cited by the Ukrainian Defense Ministry.

The Minister of Defense of Estonia said the new assistance package includes the Role 2 mobile field hospital, which will save the lives of Ukrainian defenders at the frontline. The symbolic key to the third hospital, transferred to Ukraine by Estonia, the Netherlands and Norway, Pevkur handed over to Minister of Defense of Ukraine Oleksiy Reznikov, the press service of the Ukrainian defense ministry said.

As Pevkur noted, the total amount of assistance to Ukraine from Estonia has already exceeded 1% of the GDP of this Baltic country. That is why the head of the Estonian Ministry of Defense called on other Western countries to follow the example of his country and increase assistance to Ukraine.

Pevkur said that recently, at the level of the countries of the European Union, Estonia initiated urgent support for the Ukrainian defense with one million 155-caliber artillery shells. It is going to do everything so that Ukraine receives more ammunition, equipment, equipment and other necessary assistance, he said.

According to the Defense Ministry press service, representatives of the Estonian defense department were presented with the logistics program LOGFAS - a system for recording, controlling the movement and end use of military equipment and property received from Western partners.

At the meeting, the defense ministers of the two countries discussed the issue of further consolidation of efforts to repel Russia's armed aggression and the implementation of bilateral projects to strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian defense forces.
From 14 to 15 February 2023, the World Customs Organization (WCO) jointly held with the World Health Organization (WHO) a third online workshop on combating the trafficking of substandard and falsified medical products, this time for the WCOs Americas and Caribbean region.

In his opening address, Mr. Ricardo Trevino Chapa, WCO Deputy Secretary General, emphasized that Customs administrations must protect borders against illicit trafficking and, in particular, against non-compliant, falsified and/or substandard medical products. He went on to note that protecting society remains a key priority in the WCO Strategic Plan 2022-2025, approved at the 139th/140th Sessions of the WCO Council.

Some 30 Customs officers specialized in enforcement and risk management took part in the workshop, representing nine countries from the Americas and Caribbean region: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Peru and Uruguay.

During the workshop, the WHO representative informed participants about the dangers that substandard and/or falsified medicines pose for public health. She drew attention to the cases of lethal paediatric products recently reported by the WHO Global Surveillance and Monitoring System, while calling on Customs administrations to increase their vigilance at borders.

A representative of the Executive Secretariat of the Council of Europes Medicrime Convention also took an active part in the discussions. The Medicrime Convention is a binding legal instrument in the field of criminal law which criminalizes not only counterfeiting but also the manufacture and distribution of medical products placed on the market without authorization or in violation of safety standards.

This workshop provided participants with the opportunity to become familiar with WCO IPR tools and instruments, such as the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) CENcomm platform, e-commerce risk indicators and the online CLiKC! module specifically dedicated to combating illicit medicines and counterfeit or substandard medical supplies related to COVID-19 and other pandemics.

Ms. Martha Garamendi, Director General of Peru Customs, WCO Vice-Chair for the Americas and Caribbean Region, thanked the Secretariat and all stakeholders who contributed to the organization of the workshop. She also encouraged participants to share the knowledge acquired during the workshop with other colleagues to help Customs administrations of the region improve their response capacities in this field.

The second day of the workshop was dedicated to presentations from the private sector. Rights holders representing four pharmaceutical companies presented techniques and best practices for detecting falsified or substandard pharmaceutical products from the perspective of the private sector.

For more information, please contact IPRteam@wcoomd.org.
At the invitation of Mr. Jalal Al-Qudah, the Director General of Jordan Customs in his capacity as the Vice-Chair for the MENA region, Dr. Kunio Mikuriya, the Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO), participated in the MENA regional meeting of Customs Directors General, held in Cairo on 27 February 2023.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Mikuriya spoke about the theme of the year and the ongoing work of the WCO regarding the important focus areas such as data, fragile borders and green Customs. He provided an update on the finances of the WCO, including the use of additional languages. The meeting discussed the follow-up to the Policy Commission's deliberations in December 2022 and also heard the progress report by the regional entities, including the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB) and the Regional Intelligence Liaison Offices (RILOs).

The Directors General further discussed the issue of priorities and agreed to continue seconding a regional technical attache at the WCO to further enhance cooperation and increase the effectiveness of the support provided to the region.
Policeman killed in IED blast in India's Chhattisgarh state

Xinhua) 13:10, February 27, 2023

NEW DELHI, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- A policeman was killed Sunday after an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by the Naxal rebels went off in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh, police said.

The blast occurred in the Orchha area of Narayanpur district, about 300 km south of Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh.

According to officials, the slain policeman belonged to Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF).

"This morning a head constable of the CAF was killed after a pressure IED planted by Naxalites went off near Batum village in Narayanpur district," a police officer said.

The policeman was part of a patrolling contingent, who reportedly had gone into the area after receiving information that Naxalites have put up banners there.

"The policeman inadvertently stepped over a pressure IED, causing its blast which resulted in his death," the police officer said.

On Saturday, three policemen were killed and two others wounded in a fierce gunfight with Naxals in Sukma district. On Monday, Naxals killed two policemen in Bortalab area of Rajnandgaon district of the state.

Currently, the Naxal insurgents are active across the central and eastern parts of India.

India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh once termed the Naxalite movement as India's "greatest internal security challenge."

New Delhi has deployed several companies of its paramilitary forces to take on Naxals in their strongholds.

The insurgency reportedly has claimed hundreds of lives besides rendering thousands of poor inhabitants homeless.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
An employee of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine died in a hospital in Khmelnytsky, Head of Khmelnytsky Regional Military Administration Serhiy Hamaly said.

"Unfortunately, there is another death in the hospital. The doctors failed to save the life of another hero  the rescuer. Condolences to the families and friends of the victims," Hamaly said on his Telegram channel.

Earlier it was reported that in Khmelnytsky, an employee of the State Emergency Service died while on duty while extinguishing a fire that arose as a result of a night attack by shock drones.

Hamaly said the enemy had dealt three blows to the city. As a result, one person died and four were injured.
Ukraine and Saudi Arabia signed in Kyiv on February 26 documents on providing Kyiv with a $400 million aid package, $100 million in humanitarian aid and $300 million in oil products, Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak said on his Telegram channel.

"There is a successful visit to Kyiv by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. He met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the team. This is the first official visit of the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia to Ukraine since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries (on April 14, 1993). And I am personally grateful to Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud for the constructive dialogue that eventually led us to this meeting," he said.

In particular, Yermak also said "we are talking about a joint program of cooperation with the Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center of King Salman and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Saudi Development Fund."

"I would like to remind you that Ukraine and Saudi Arabia have common challenges and experience in dealing with them. We are talking about Iranian UAVs that were supplied to certain 'rebels' and carried out attacks on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia," he also said.

Yermak said "since last year, these same Iranian UAVs ended up in the possession of Russian terrorists and are carrying out attacks on the Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Therefore, we also have common experience in fighting terrorists."
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On the night of Monday, February 27, the Russian invaders attacked the territory of Ukraine with 14 strike unmanned aerial vehicles, of which 11 were shot down by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the General Staff said.

"At night, from 23.00 until the morning, the Russian invaders used 14 Shahed-type UAVs across the territory of Ukraine. Previously, 11 of these drones were shot down by Ukrainian defenders," the General Staff said on Facebook.
Finn Anderson and Tania Azevedo, the co-creators of A Mother's Song, deserve a medal and a spell in a recuperation chamber for achieving the all-but-impossible task of getting a new musical professionally staged in contemporary Scotland. The result may be full of problems, with shonky dramatic structure and patchy songs, but its heart is firmly in the right place, and I always felt warmly towards it despite its issues.

A Mother's Song bills itself as a folk musical, and folk songs are central to its plot as well as its music. The story focuses on three generations of women separated by several centuries, each of whom face their own particular struggles with pregnancy and childbirth. Their parallel stories converge on Sarah and Alix, a couple in modern day Brooklyn who have just moved into their first apartment. As part of the move Sarah uncovers a box she inherited from her Aunt Betty back home in West Virginia, that she has never had the courage to open. It reveals Aunt Betty's research into the folk songs and ballads that travelled from Scotland and Ireland to the Appalachians, and the link to Sarah's own family makes her ask questions about her future.

The multi-generational story might not be original - just look at Stephen Daldry's The Hours - but it's not a bad idea. Each generation is nicely sketched, including some bold use of Scots language that would likely fox listeners south of the border, and the various characters are fairly well observed. Aspects of it are very clunky, though, not least the central idea that such a massive journey of character development should be sparked by the MacGuffin of a few tapes left by a deceased auntie. There's a bit too much reliance on histrionic cliff-hangers, too, such as a bride who runs away on her wedding day, and a subplot about stealing from the church collection, both of which feel like offcuts from a rejected EastEnders script.

That said, the performances are committed, particularly from the two pregnant mothers in the group, Blythe Jandoo's wide-eyed Jean and Kirsty Findlay's fearful Cait. Melanie Bell as Aunt Betty and Bethany Tennick as Sarah are both rather one-note, but both Tinashe Warikandwa and Craig Hunter do sterling work in several different roles.

The songs are a mixed bag, too. Composer Finn Anderson uses some traditional ballads in his score, such as "The Four Marys" or "Handsome Molly", and the original songs are at their best when they stick closest to the mood of those folk originals. "The Prologue" and "Epilogue", for example, are foot-tapping earworms, and there are some cracking bluegrass moments in the second act. Against that, however, there's also a rocky karaoke number that falls pretty flat, and some repetitious ensemble numbers that contain a lot of note-spinning.

Anderson's overall achievement, however, is to create some impressive atmosphere, and his music is brought to life really strongly by the onstage band. Tania Azevedo, the show's co-creator and director, struggles to get the ensemble to do much more than standing and looking, but Emma Bailey's set designs are flexible, and her costumes handsome.

So there are a lot of problems, but there's the germ of something really impressive here. In spite of the weaknesses this is a show which has a lot of promise, and with some trimming of the songs and some refining of the plot, it could find a strong audience.
This second verbatim play based on the Grenfell inquiry, a follow-up to last year's Grenfell: Value Engineering, makes plain how the fire was the result of a confluence of buck-passing and neglect.

Featuring testimony from those affected by the tragedy alongside authority figures including former cabinet minister Eric Pickles (Howard Crossley), the production highlights failings at both the macro and micro level.

Perhaps the most eye-catching, as represented by the pompous Pickles (who continually says "at my level", to reinforce both his status and ignorance), is the impact of the coalition government's populist campaign against "red tape" and regulation. Boris Johnson's assault on London Fire Brigade funding is also called out. These were ideological edicts that had devastating consequences, from the failure to prevent the use of flammable cladding to a shortage of response staff on the night itself.

Verbatim veterans Nicolas Kent and Richard Norton-Taylor judiciously edit the inquiry material to reveal how every system that should have safeguarded residents let them down. Richard Millett QC, played with calm authority by Ron Cook, asks questions ranging from the factual to the incredulous, backed up by on-screen evidence. He highlights one private message from a cladding marketing executive to another that simply reads "all we do is lie in here".

Straightforwardly staged on a set imitating the inquiry chamber, Kent's production wisely eschews theatrical gimmicks in favour of a clear presentation of testimony. Inevitably the most moving comes from those whose lives were forever changed. Hisam Choucair (Shahzad Ali), who lost six family members, suggests that racism contributed to a failure to provide proper state support in the aftermath. We also hear an account of the heroics of Mohamed Neda, who gave his life in order to aid his neighbours on the top floor.

The atmosphere is that of a lively, angry town hall meeting. A woman sitting near me heckled Eric Pickles for shamefully getting the number of victims wrong. Another in front of me sobbed. This is theatre that is relevant, moving, and forensically devastating. We can only pray that the lessons of the continuing inquiry have a similar impact.
"It would never happen on The Waltons" quips tyrannical Irish patriarch Dinny in the midst of taunting and terrorising his sons as they perpetually re-enact scenes from their troubled family history. He's not wrong. Enda Walsh's fascinating mixture of trauma, fantasy and jet black comedy was first presented by prestigious Galway-based theatre company Druid in 2006 and now opens Southwark Playhouse's shiny new Elephant and Castle venue, steps away from where the play is actually set, in a stonkingly well-acted production by Nicky Allpress.

This play is A Lot: imagine the urban gothic twilight of Philip Ridley overlaid with Joe Orton's subversive epigrammatic brilliance, liberally seasoned with the Hibernian lunacy of TV's Father Ted, and you'll be part of the way there. Murderous, deluded Dinny (Dan Skinner) and his deeply damaged sons Sean and Blake (Emmet Byrne and Killian Coyle respectively), who may have witnessed a brutal slaughter while in their infancy, are holed up in a grim council flat high above Walworth Road. Only Sean has any contact with the outside world as he periodically nips out to the local Tesco for provisions. The rest of the time the men play out, using a frenetically choreographed variety of wigs and ramshackle homemade props, the sometimes violent, often hilarious variations on a set of frankly jawdropping situations that led them to this bizarre set-up.

Both Walsh's writing and Allpress's staging appear chaotic on the surface - the shaggy dog stories that comprise this dysfunctional family's history involve stolen money, coffins, a poisoned roast dinner, an unfortunate pet canine impaled on a spike, a dead horse and a motorboat, amongst many other things - but that belies a rigorous discipline and internal logic that impresses and surprises. Allpress engineers an atmosphere of shuddering threat and barely suppressed hysteria tempered with moments of real sweetness, but I do wonder if, running at less than two hours including interval, it might play better without a break. You may find yourself bemused at times, but you'll never be bored. Walsh's point seems to be that family ties are all-consuming, even when the family is as bloody awful as this one, and the rollicking comedy eventually gives way to a conclusion that shocks with it's emotional force. It also makes a persuasive case for the power of storytelling and how fictions can help make bearable the most intolerable of lives.

This sort of material requires a precise, energised sort of tragic clowning, not exactly naturalistic but neither so heightened that it feels divorced from reality, and Allpress's cast absolutely nails it: despite the scattershot brilliance of much of the material, I doubt it would land as well as it does without a company this good. Dressed, bejewelled and coiffed like a 1970s spiv, Dan Skinner finds rich veins of danger and absurdity in the monstrous Dinny. Emmet Byrne invests Sean with a wide-eyed watchfulness that pierces the heart, and the detail and precision of Killian Coyle's Blake is quite extraordinary: note the way he is all nervous twitches and tics when being himself but has a bold assuredness when playing a variety of (mostly female) roles, suggesting he is the one most worthy of the makeshift Best Actor Award statuette his father brandishes around like a weapon. Crucially, Byrne and Coyle are completely believable as siblings. Rachelle Diedericks is wonderful as the good-hearted Tesco worker who unexpectedly breezes into Anisha Field's appropriately dingy set with Sean's shopping and gets a whole lot more than she bargained for, her innate sunniness giving way to disbelief then blind panic with total conviction.

With a two level auditorium reminiscent of the Donmar and the Park 200, Southwark's new theatre is larger than its older siblings on the other side of Elephant and Castle, but has a similar funky industrial-meets-artsy aesthetic, and lovely, spacious bar and front of house areas. It is typical of this company's beloved, slightly off-kilter brand to open their major venue with an in-house production of such a potentially polarising piece. Not everyone will embrace Walsh's testosterone-fuelled, no holds barred mayhem, but for those who like their plays bold, gory and bracing, The Walworth Farce is a macabre delight and these adrenalised performances rock.
The Ministry of Education and Science states that the comparative analysis confirms that the qualifications framework of Ukraine and the European Union are comparable.

"Building a sustainable national qualifications system and improving the National Qualifications Framework are among the key commitments of the participating countries of the Bologna Process. Ukraine fulfills them at a high level, as evidenced by the report that is presented today. The implementation of this comparative analysis also fully meets the obligations assumed by Ukraine on the path to European integration," the press service quoted First Deputy Minister Andriy Vitrenko as saying.

It is noted that the comparative report is also an important achievement in the context of the implementation of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU, which requires closer cooperation on qualification issues.

According to the report, the comparative analysis confirms that the qualifications framework of Ukraine and the EU are comparable and a correspondence can be established between them.

"Further steps to promote transparency and comparability of Ukrainian and European qualifications will be to ensure the dissemination of the results of the comparative analysis by the EU and Ukraine, as well as the development and implementation of a joint action plan," the report says.
Ms. Cheap: Wildflower Week at Beaman Park offers chance to learn about Middle Tennessee wildflowers

I think we all know that wildflowers are a welcome sign of spring. But did you know that according to Petal Republic, wildflowers can also symbolize happiness, joy, and remembrance....
The specter of limitless Russian manpower is a myth, and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has already been forced to make difficult and suboptimal choices to offset the terrible losses his war has inflicted on the Russian military on the battlefield, and the costs to Putin and Russia will begin to mount rapidly this year, the Institute for the Study of War said in its report on February 26.

"He will face similarly difficult choices in 2023 if he persists in his determination to use military force to impose his will on Ukraine and the West. Russia can mobilize more manpower, and Putin will likely do so rather than give up. But the costs to Putin and Russia of the measures he will likely need to take at this point will begin to mount rapidly," it said.

According to the document, Ukraine's sweeping counteroffensive in Kharkiv region between September 6 and September 11 likely shocked Putin into realizing that he needed to order an involuntary reserve call-up.

The analysts also said that the Russian military command likely began to suffer significant manpower shortages in May 2022 and for this reason they had to launch the involuntary reserve call-up.

Putin likely recognized that the involuntary reserve call-up could not close the gap between Russian force requirements and available manpower in a timely fashion, and so gave the Wagner Group room to expand its recruitment of prisoners and its operations on the frontline until the mobilized personnel could arrive en masse, the ISW said.

Putin's clear efforts to prepare the Russian people for a protracted and painful war suggest that he has realized that only the Russian Defense Ministry can actually sustain the large mechanized forces he needs "to have any hope of achieving his ambitions in Ukraine."

"Putin has apparently still hesitated to order the additional reserve call-up that Russian officials were reportedly preparing at the start of 2023. He has not turned back to voluntary recruitment and is unlikely to do so, but he seems to remain nervous about how much sacrifice he can impose on his people," the ISW said in the report.

As for the situation on the battlefield, the analysts said that the Russian forces continued to conduct unsuccessful operations northwest of Svatove and near Kreminna, as well as continued offensive operations around Bakhmut.
In Shenxian, a county in Liaocheng, a city in East China's Shandong Province, there are 889 village-history museums. Items, such as cell phones (first generation), looms and plows (collected from villagers), are displayed in the museums. The exhibits record the histories of the villages, and some of the items are reflections of good family traditions.

In the History Museum of Guanshang, a village in Shenxian, there is a stone mill and a roller in the yard, and there are old pictures on the wall and items, such as hoes and vats, in the exhibition room.

Zhang Siming, a villager, has special feelings for a broken vat displayed in the museum. "During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression (1931-1945), our village was pillaged, and a vat in my house was broken by Japanese soldiers. The vat was important to us because we used it to store oil," Zhang told visitors. Some children wrote down the story in their essays. One of them wrote, "We are lucky that we live in a time of peace."

Shenxian has made use of idle farmhouses, historical sites and public resources to build village-history museums. Many of the villagers, especially veterans and Party members, have participated in the museums' development, by donating old pictures and items, and by helping collect touching family stories. The museums have played significant roles in passing down good family traditions, and in advancing rural revitalization.

Classrooms Outside School

"It has been widely known that Yandian has three 'treasures'  muskmelon, roast pigeon and Chinese dates. In the 1990s, Yang Baozhong, our then-village Party secretary, led villagers in planting dates. Their efforts made our village famous for producing high-quality dates," says Zhou Taifeng, Party secretary of Wutun Village, in Yandian, a town in Shenxian. In the History Museum of Wutun, pictures of Yang and agricultural experts, taken when they helped villagers grow dates, and newspaper reports about the village, are exhibited. The items record the hard work of the villagers on their path to a wealthy and happy life.

An old loom, exhibited in the History Museum of Machang Village, still works. Every day, some women use the loom to weave, and children who are interested in weaving gather at the museum to watch the weavers at work.

"I often visit the museum of our village. The old items reflect people's lives and family traditions in the past," says Jia Shuxi, a student from the primary school of Shaozhuang Village. During their vacations, children in the village visit the museum, where some veteran Party members tell stories of revolutionary times. The children also learn about the history and good traditions of the village. The museum becomes a second classroom, outside of school.

The History Museum of Fuyuji Village displays a set of tools, used for woodwork. The tools belong to Liang Huaizeng, a carpenter. It took Liang several days to make a table with those tools; yet, it is much faster to produce furniture with modern equipment.

The exhibits in the History Museum of Yandian reflect the changes brought by the development of greenhouse-vegetable planting to villages in the town.

Some village-history museums in Shenxian play an important role in preserving folk culture. The village museum of Sunzhuang is located at the former residence of Deng Jiuru, a master of Shandong Qinshu (a kind of story telling with musical accompaniment). Erhu (a traditional stringed instrument) performances and local operas are regularly held at the museum. The village museum of Ximagou has a hall for exhibiting projection equipment and cine films used during different periods of China's history. The items help visitors understand how villagers screened films in the past.

The museums have been a platform for spreading culture and advocating core socialist values in the countryside. They host themed activities during special events, such as the Olympic Winter Games and during traditional festivals. They are great places for villagers to gather during festivals.

Women's Roles

Zhang Lihua, a resident of Feitai Community, in Shenxian, is often invited to share her family's story at the community's history museum. She looked after her invalid mother-in-law and nephew for years. Many visitors burst into tears when they hear her touching story.

Women in the community enjoy going to the museum. "I can watch old films, listen to stories of revolutionary times and join in square dancing there. The county's women's federation will organize lectures given by outstanding women from different sectors at the museum. My fellow women villagers and I are willing to attend the lectures," a woman says.

"The county's women's federation and culture and tourism bureau have organized an activity, to encourage visitors to discover fine family traditions behind the exhibits when they visit the village-history museums," notes Li Na, President of Shenxian Women's Federation.

A team of tour guides, composed of executive members of village-level women's federations and women volunteers, has been an active force in helping visitors learn the stories behind the exhibits, and in maintaining order at the museums.

Women's federations in Shenxian will constantly use the museums as places for encouraging virtues in individuals, through promoting fine family traditions.

Photos Supplied by Shandong Women's Federation

(Women of China English Monthly January 2023 issue)
Defendant Alex Murdaugh is cross examined by prosecutor Creighton Waters while testifying in his murder trial at the Colleton County Courthouse, Friday, February 24, in Walterboro, South Carolina.
The European Commission jointly with Poland and with the assistance of the United Nations agencies is launching an initiative aimed at returning Ukrainian children abducted by the Russian forces during the war and bringing those responsible for this crime to justice.

Representative of the European Commission Dana Spinant announced the initiative in Brussels on Monday.

"You are aware of the dramatic situation of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia and sent to Russia for adoption. Indeed, since the start of the invasion, it is estimated that Russian forces have sent thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia. The abduction of Ukrainian children is a great social problem, a tragedy, and a crime. This is why together with Poland we are launching this initiative with the support of the United Nations agencies to address this tragic situation. The aim is indeed to join forces, to collect evidence so that the abducted children can be found and those responsible for the crime are brought to justice," she said.

According to Spinant, the initiative will be led by President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister of Poland Mateusz Morawiecki.

"We will announce in the following days more details about this initiative," she said.
US says China will face 'real costs' if it provides lethal aid to Russia for war in Ukraine
To assist with the reconstruction of Ukraine, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan has earmarked approximately $56 million in its 2023 budget for civil infrastructure projects, Caribbean News Global reported on Monday.

The ministry plans to engage in joint efforts to rebuild hospitals, schools, churches, power facilities, water supplies, bridges, and transportation through bilateral and multilateral avenues, the ministry announced on the one-year anniversary of the Russian military invasion.

"Since the war broke out, Taiwan's people and government have donated a total of 27 tonnes of medical supplies and over 700 tonnes of humanitarian relief. The aid from Taiwan was quickly delivered through Poland, Slovakia, and other neighboring countries to Ukrainians striving to protect their homes amid the war," the publication said.

In addition, Taiwan has donated more than $41 million for efforts made in coordination with neighboring countries  including Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Lithuania and international organizations to jointly resettle Ukrainian refugees.
The eruption of the global capitalist crisis, manifested in escalating war and mounting economic shocks, are exposing the political bankruptcy of the pseudo-left organizations, representatives of privileged sections of the middle class inseparably tied to capitalism and its national states.

Jacobin magazine is highly representative of the political response of these upper middle class layers to this breakdown of capitalism and the drive toward world war.

Lula promotes editions of Jacobin Brasil in 2021 [Photo: Ricardo Stuckert/ Twitter]

Backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a pseudo-left faction of the Democratic Party, Jacobin has sought over the last decade to project itself as an official ideological organ of the pseudo-left. Recently, it has invested heavily in expanding its influence over Latin America, inaugurating in 2019 a regional edition in Spanish and a Brazilian edition in Portuguese.

All the forces that Jacobin has promoted as examples of the renewal of socialism in the 21st century have exposed themselves as instruments of capitalist reaction, starting with the DSA itself. The DSA members in the US Congress are voting together with their fellow representatives of American imperialism to expand the war against Russia in Ukraine, and, domestically, to suppress the growing struggles of the working class.

In Latin America, over the last two years, political parties and figures linked to the bourgeois nationalist Pink Tide have returned to power in a number of countries wracked by the COVID-19 pandemic, growing social inequality and persistent economic stagnation. This process has been presented by Jacobin as a reminder that socialist politics continue to offer an alternative to a system in crisis.

The truth, however, is that the increasingly less pink representatives of the Latin American bourgeoisie have merely continued the attacks of the previous far-right governments against the working class and oriented their countries more and more openly to European and US imperialism.

A critical case was the brief administration of Perus Pedro Castillo, whose inauguration in July 2021 was portrayed by Jacobin as the sign of a new Pink Tide underway. The brutal pro-capitalist policies implemented by Castillo in his very first months in office were criminally covered-up by the pseudo-left magazine , which fraudulently blamed his right-wing shift on backward popular mentality.

After the catastrophic end of that experience with the parliamentary coup of December 2022, Jacobin failed to make any assessment of its support for a government that paved the way to the strengthening of fascistic military and political forces in Peru and the illegitimate and murderous regime of Dina Boluarte.

The latest fraud promoted by Jacobin in Latin America is that the return of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of the Workers Party (PT) to power in Brazil represents a huge win for the global left. It can only make this claim by hiding the record of attacks against the working class carried by the PT during its 13 years in office, as well as the openly right-wing character of Lulas presidential campaign.

The first and highly anticipated visit of the new Brazilian president to the United States, on February 10, has laid bare the completely reactionary political project of the PT and its pseudo-left backers.

Jacobin falsifies Lulas pro-imperialist agenda in the US

In its report on Lulas trip to Washington, Jacobin concealed the speeches and agreements made by the Brazilian leader with Democratic President Joe Biden, and sought to present his tour as a left-wing mission to America.

Brazil's President Lula poses with DSA Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in Washington, February 10. [Photo: Ricardo Stuckert/ Twitter] [Photo: Ricardo Stuckert/ Twitter] ]

Brief meetings held by Lula with the pseudo-left Democratic parliamentarians Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a DSA member, were interpreted in the Jacobin article Lula Knows Exactly Who His Political Allies Are as the most significant event of his whole trip. Never mind that, unlike the meeting with Biden, these encounters boiled down to photo-ops.

The fact that the PT leader, according to reports obtained by the magazine, asked to meet Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez was presented by Jacobin as a sign of Lulas support and ideological affinity with the pair. By the corrupted standards of the pseudo-left, this gesture is the political equivalent of beatification by the pope himself.

Jacobin wrote: Lula is as close as any current world leader to being an icon on the international left. While he has detractors on the Brazilian left and elsewhere, he is overwhelmingly seen as a model of working-class organizing and governance. On this basis, they conclude:

...[I]ts telling that Lula flagged Sanders and AOC  who detractors insist are Democratic lackeys and purveyors of a thin-gruel electoralism hostile to genuine working-class politicsas tribunes of the Left in the United States. This gesture is of a piece with Lulas long-standing insistence that electoral politics are a crucial vehicle for social progressand that building political power to deliver substantive improvements to poor and working-class people is more important than ideological purity plays.

This is a tautological line of argumentation: Lula is the icon of the international left because he is overwhelmingly seen this way. Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders are the tribunes of the Left in the United States because they are so seen by Lula.

We will return later to those presented as the detractors of Lula, Sanders, and Ocasio-Cortez, which are the fundamental target of this article and of the attacks of the DSA and the pseudo-left in general.

For now, we should point out how remarkable it is that Jacobin openly acknowledges that its political representatives are seen as Democratic lackeys and purveyors of a thin-gruel electoralism hostile to genuine working-class politics. Unable to refute this charge, it is content to indicate that Lula is not bothered by it.

But promoting Sanders and Ocasio-Cortez, as well as the AFL-CIO bureaucrats with whom Lula also met, was not the focus of Lulas trip to Washington. Those meetings merely served to provide left window-dressing for the PTs real goals of developing strategic relations with US imperialism.

Under the banner of deepening Brazils political and economic integration with the United States and defending democracy in both countries, the meeting between Lula and Biden marked the deepening subordination of the Brazilian government to Washingtons incendiary foreign policy.

Having declared that his purpose in the US was to reposition Brazil in the new world geopolitics, Lula agreed to sign a joint statement with the Biden administration, which is in a de facto war with Russia, condemning Moscow for the violation of Ukraines territorial integrity.

The demagogic promotion by both presidents of their alliance for democracy had the purpose, first of all, of covering up the mortal crisis of the democratic political system both in Brazil and the United States.

According to this fraudulent narrative, the eruption of fascism in American and Brazilian politicsmarked by the invasion of Washingtons Capitol on January 6, 2021, and the more recent invasion of government headquarters in Brasilia on January 8, 2023was a threat overcome by their strong institutions of state.

In reality, the coup attempts conducted in both countries by their respective former presidents, Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro, are acute manifestations of an ongoing process of dissolution of democratic forms of rule driven by the world capitalist crisis. In Brazil and the US, fascistic forces are growing within the state apparatus, while both the Democrats and the PT seek to win them over on the basis of the common interests of the ruling class.

The defense of democracy, US imperialisms habitual and hypocritical justification for its every war and criminal intervention, also serves as the pretext for Lula to accommodate his government to Washingtons aggressive global agenda.

The joint statement of the US and Brazilian governments announced: As leaders of the two largest democracies in the Americas, President Biden and President Lula pledged to work together to strengthen democratic institutions and welcomed the second Summit for Democracy to be held in March 2023.

The Summit for Democracy, now embraced by Lula, is nothing but a vulgar facade for US imperialisms provocations against Russia and China. Its first edition , held in December 2021, was dedicated to blaming the subversion of democracy in the US and other countries on outside pressure from autocrats  a codeword for Beijing and Moscow. Exposing the utter fraud of his initiative, Biden invited notoriously anti-democratic and fascistic figures such as the former Philippines president, Rodrigo Duterte; Washingtons puppet in Venezuela, Juan Guaido; and Jair Bolsonaro himself.

Lulas shift on the war in Ukraine

In his first two months in office, Lula has made a significant turn toward accommodating his government to the interests of European and American imperialism.

Less than a year ago, when he was still a candidate, the PT leader resisted Washingtons fraudulent narrative that the invasion of Ukraine was an unprovoked attack by Russia. In a major interview with Time in May 2022, Lula stated: Putin shouldnt have invaded Ukraine. But its not just Putin who is guilty. The U.S. and the E.U. are also guilty.

When German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Brazil in late January of this year, Lula took an unprecedented step by signing a joint statement with the German government condemning emphatically the violation of Ukraines territorial integrity by Russia.

But, on the same occasion, Lula embarrassed the German leader, who was preparing to send tanks to Ukraine, by publicly refusing his request for Brazil to supply ammunition. Making Scholz grimace, he also proposed the creation of a Peace Club to encourage the end of the war that would include China.

The positions adopted by Lula two weeks later in Washington demonstrate that his proposals for world peace are not merely bankrupt; they provide a cynical cover for the main perpetrators of war.

After his talks with Biden, for whom peace is synonymous with Putins overthrow and the carve-up of Russias territories and natural resources, Lula came to the conclusion that the commander-in-chief of the US Armed Forces is the perfect leader for his Peace Club. Returning to Brazil, he tweeted, We need to start a group of countries that organize for peace.... I think Biden has the clarity that the war has to stop.

The corollary of the PT governments embrace of American imperialism in Washington was its decision to support the latest UN resolution condemning Russia, which broke Brazils pattern of abstaining in previous similar votes. The resolution, which calls for Russias retreat to pre-2014 positions and for Putin to be held accountable for the most serious crimes under international law, sets the stage for the escalation of the war promoted by the imperialist powers on its one-year anniversary.

More than a subjective political zigzag, Lulas changing position on the war in Ukraine is an expression of shifts within the Brazilian ruling class which the PT represents.

While Brazils strong economic ties to China and Russia have inspired its national bourgeoisie to seek neutrality in the conflicts instigated by the US and the European powers, there is a growing concern that this attitude could marginalize its position in a new imperialist redivision of the world.

Giving voice to those sentiments, Folha de Sao Paulo columnist and chief Interesse Nacional (National Interest) editor, Daniel Buarque, argued in a recent analysis that the countrys traditional impartiality in international disputes like the invasion of Ukraine is a major impediment to placing Brazil at the center of major global decisions.

The pseudo-left vs .the political independence of the working class

That Jacobins depiction of Lula as the icon of the international left flies in the face of reality is no mere political misunderstanding.

The DSAs international relations are an extension of its national political orientation, aimed at protecting American imperialism, Wall Street and its two-party political system from the challenge of the working class.

The operations of the DSA and Jacobin in Latin America stand in a long tradition of the US State Departments utilization of the trade union apparatus and its supposedly progressive agents to assert Washingtons aims.

The anti-communist AFL-CIO union bureaucracy, which is unconditionally defended by the DSA and with which Lula also met in Washington, has historically acted as a CIA front in Brazil, under its American Institute for Free Labor Development (AIFLD) and its successor, Solidarity. The AIFLD funded a set of right-wing unions in Brazil, placed in strategic communication sectors, which helped carry out the US-backed military coup in 1964.

Within the Brazilian pseudo-left and petty bourgeois milieu of Stalinist, Pabloite and postmodernist academics and tendencies that have vied for coverage in the pages of Jacobin Brasil, both the DSAs policies and the orientation of the PT to US imperialism find wide resonance. These layers have served as a conduit for imperialist pro-war propaganda and even appeals for Brazils direct participation in the Ukraine conflict.

Carnival float representing the Brazilian Astros 2020 weapons system aimed a Putin, February 18. [Credit: SMSJC/ Facebook] [Photo: SMSJC/ Facebook]

One of the most graphic expressions of this tendency has been the campaign by the Morenoite Unified Socialist Workers Party (PSTU), through its representatives in the trade union bureaucracy, for the massive arming of Ukraine and the development of the war industry in Brazil. Agitating for this ultra-right program, the Morenoites joined a carnival parade last week with floats representing a battery of Astros 2020 air missiles, produced by the local Avibras company, pointed at a Putin dummy.

As both the American and Brazilian pseudo-left seek in their international relations to promote their own nationalist interests, they converge above all in their common determination to block the revolutionary alliance of the working class in the US and Latin America.

The main enemy of all these middle class pro-capitalist tendenciesdescribed by Jacobin as the detractors of both Lula and their own thin-gruel electoralism and hostility to the working classis the Trotskyist movement, the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI). The ICFI and its World Socialist Web Site stand in irreconcilable opposition to all the nationalist agencies promoted by the pseudo-left to suppress the working class as an independent political force, from the falsely progressive bourgeois parties to the industrial police of the trade union bureaucracies.

The crisis which is driving capitalism toward a new world war and universal political reaction is also creating the conditions for the international socialist revolution. In the growing struggles of workers throughout the world, the International Committee fights for the development of the consciousness of the working class of its own power and independent social interests, and to mobilize it as an internationally unified force to overthrow capitalism.
Britains Stop the War Coalition (STWC) could barely attract 2,000 people to its national demonstration in London on Saturday against the war in Ukraine.

STWC called the rally under the demand, Peace talks nowStop the War in Ukraine. Its main slogans were No to the Russian invasion, No to NATO and No to nuclear war.

The sparse attendance at the Stop the War Coalition rally in London's Trafalgar Square, February 25, 2023 [Photo: WSWS]

A large number of those attending were mainly older people organised around the Stalinist Communist Party of Britain and its Morning Star newspaper, and the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. A delegation attended from Counterfire, a splinter from the Socialist Workers Party, which includes three STWC leaders, Lindsey German, John Rees and Chris Nineham.

Almost 20 years to the day, the Stop the War Coalition led a demonstration of over a million people in London, as part of global protests against the Iraq war.

However, unlike previous demonstrations over the two decades since, STWC was unable to enlist the support of a single prominent left figure in the Labour Party or trade union bureaucracy to speak from the stage, such has been the lurch to the right of these layers. Many of Labours Socialist Campaign Group (SCG), a rump of around 30 MPs, openly support the shovelling of military weapons by the NATO powers to Kiev to fight the war against Russia to the last Ukrainian soldier.

Among these are former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyns shadow chancellor John McDonnell; and other Corbyn supporting Labour MPs; Nadia Whittome; Clive Lewis; Rachael Maskell; Lloyd Russell-Moyle and Ian Lavery. These are supporters of the Ukraine Solidarity Campaign, which has the backing of four senior union leaders: Gary Smith, GMB General Secretary; Barbara Plant, GMB President; Mick Whelan, ASLEF General Secretary and Chris Kitchen, National Union of Mineworkers General Secretary.

The silence of other leading Corbynites on the war such as SCG secretary Richard Burgon in the face of the rabid warmongering Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer who boasts that Labour is the party of NATO is politically criminal.

McDonnell backed a statement by the Ukraine Solidarity Campaign last week which declared, A democratic, lasting peace for the peoples of Ukraine and Russia requires the defeat of Russias brutal imperialism and demands the gifting to Ukraine of all the surplus UK military equipment due to be replaced, especially the 79 Challenger tanks, 170 Scimitar reconnaissance vehicles, all Warrior infantry fighting vehicles, Typhoon fighter aircraft.

Pro-NATO, anti-communist counter-demonstrators at the Stop the War rally joined by gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell (second right) [Photo: WSWS]

On the day, the campaign staged a provocative demonstration alongside the STWC demo, chanting, Arm, arm, arm Ukraine! and holding up placards including, Yes to NATO as it was assembling.

Corbyn was sacked from the Parliamentary Labour Party over two years ago by Starmer, who reiterated this week that he would not be allowed to stand as a Labour candidate in the next general election. The Labour leadership has put Corbyns supporters on notice that they are next to be booted out, with all supporters of the Stop the War Coalition to be purged.

This is why Corbyn, the deputy president of STWC and by far its most prominent leader, didnt appear on stage at the main Trafalgar Square rally. He instead spoke only to a handful of people in the crowd while it was assembling at Portland Place. Corbyn then skulked away, not even bothering to march with the protest.

His bullhorn address consisted of pathetic appeals to the British government and NATO powers to organise peace talks, which he stressed were advocated by the General Secretary of the United Nations, by the vast majority of nations within the UN, by the Pope, by a number of world leaders, particularly Latin American ones such as President Pedro and President Lula.

He ended his short speech, If it is possible for the US to contact Russia to say that President Biden is visiting Kiev, then it is obviously possible for them to come together for serious talks to stop the fighting, stop the killing, stop the conflict and bring about peace and justice.

The abandoning of Stop the War by their leading supporters meant that the only Labour Party representative on the platform was former MP Emma Dent Coad, blocked by Starmer from standing again for parliament, and Claudia Webbe, a sitting MP who has like Corbyn had the party whip withdrawn by Starmer. Alongside these were two trade union bureaucratsMartin Kavanagh, PCS Deputy President, and Carlos Barros, a Rail, Maritime and Transport union national executive committee member.

The tiny demonstration was acknowledged by Stop The War convenor Lindsey German who said, Its not the biggest demonstration weve ever had.

Lindsey German speaking at the Stop the War Coalition rally in London, February 25, 2023 [Photo: WSWS]

She spoke of a Tory war in Britain. The Tories are on the offensive over this war, adding that this was with Keir Starmer backing to the Tories right along the line. But German made no mention of the Labour left and STWs former supporters also rushing to back the war.

German then offered as consolation, Just remember, we've got an international movement here. She pointed to 50,000 [protesters] in Germany, and 150 demonstrations across Italy this weekend.

But having cited the claimed attendance by the Berlin rallys organisers, she said nothing about their reactionary political perspective. Called by Left Party politician Sahra Wagenknecht and feminist Alice Schwarzer, it put forward opposition to the war on a German nationalist and militarist agenda. Among the speakers at the Berlin rally was retired German general and leading militarist Erich Vad.

There are no fundamental difference between Stop the War and the organisers of the Berlin rally, with both advocating an independent European foreign policy for their respective imperialist rulers, opposed only to US imperialism. The London demonstration also had Left Party MP Andrej Hunko on its platform, who is aligned with the wing of the party led by Wagenknecht and Oskar Lafontaine.

Left Party MP Andrej Hunko speaks at the Stop the War Coalition rally in London, February 25, 2023 [Photo: WSWS]

At its rally against the Iraq war 20 years ago, STWC hailed the opposition of France and Germany to the United States and Britain, insisting that with further pressure they could be a future counterweight to US imperialism. As with the myth that a section of the Labour bureaucracy could be won to an anti-imperialist position, this has been shattered by the clamour of France, Germany et al for war against Russia.

Andrew Murray is the Stalinist joint deputy chair of the STWC and served as Corbyns special advisor during his time as Labour leader. He listed support for various capitalist states as the basis for building an anti-war movement, declaiming, When we say peace now we are talking in unison with China, with India, with South Africa, with Lula and Brazil, and with most of humanity saying now is the time to stop this war Lula has called for negotiations. The Chinese government has advanced a plan for negotiations. We need that ceasefire for those negotiations can start and we can get a peace We need that peace agreement now. And our responsibility is to make sure that our government doesn't sabotage it.

Andrew Murray speaking at the Stop the War Coalition rally in London, February 25, 2023 [Photo: WSWS]

Murray concluded his speech by politely appealing to the Labour and trade union bureaucracy, I ask those on the left or in the Labour movement, you would not trust [present and former Conservative government Prime Ministers] Sunak and Johnson with your living standards, you would not trust them with your public services, you would not trust them to deal with climate change. Why did you trust them with arms and tanks to fight wars across the world I appeal to everyone in the Labour movement, do not follow Starmer over a cliff. Stand up for peace now.
On February 28, voting will close in the 2023 municipal elections for mayor and city council (50 seats, one per ward) in Chicago, the countrys third largest city. Early voting began January 26, with mail-in ballots reportedly increasing turnout over previous elections.

Eight candidates are challenging the widely unpopular Mayor Lori Lightfoot, formerly a police accountability board official under mayors Richard M. Daley and Rahm Emanuel. The main contenders are Democratic Representative Jesus Chuy Garcia, Cook County Commissioner and the Chicago Teachers Unions political and legislative official Brandon Johnson, and former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas, who has oriented himself to the police and the far-right in the Chicago region.

Since it is unlikely any mayoral candidate will take a majority of the vote outright, given the number of candidates, the vote which ends February 28 will be a primary, with a runoff election between the two top candidates to take place in April. A significant portion of the city council is expected to turn over, with 16 of 50 aldermen retiring and 39 total seats contested. Several city council seats are expected to go to runoff as well. The full results of the primary may not be known for several days.

The election will also seat 66 individuals, three in each of the 22 police districts, on a newly-created police districts council, aimed at refurbishing the image of the police after a seemingly endless series of exposures of police frame-ups, torture, violence and murder. The council members are to offer recommendations and advice, and receive $500 a month. Their recommendations carry no real weight and the body itself is yet another attempt to make it appear the city is taking steps to improve the long-standing problem of police violence, while the Democratic Party as a whole clamors for more cops and more funding.

The most significant feature of the election is its extraordinarily right-wing character, with a near-total emphasis placed on crime, and public safety. The campaigns and news media claim this singular focus is supported by public polling, but the polls published also indicate deep fear of and hostility to the police going back many years, sentiments which are fully justified.

In 2022, police murders in the United States reached a new record of 1,176, as the administration of President Joe Biden budgeted a staggering $30 billion to shore up local and state police forces. Repudiating the demands of the 2020 mass protests against police violence after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Biden declared in his 2022 state of the union address, The answer is not to defund the police. The answer is to fund the police.

There is unanimity among the nine candidates in this law-and-order propaganda, from the openly right-wing Paul Vallas and Willie Wilson, who claimed at a debate that a police officer should be able to hunt [people] like a rabbit, to the so-called progressives Chuy Garcia and Brandon Johnson. Whoever is elected in the spring will be responsible for leading an aggressive effort in Chicago to repress social opposition and beat back social demands in the interests of capital, supported by the Democratic Party at all levels.

There has been virtually no discussion in the election campaign of the pressing issues of social and health services, and jobs for young people; replacing hundreds of lead water service lines across the city; improving public transit service; substantially increasing the stock and availability of affordable housing; school closures; and establishing meaningful environmental regulations.

The election takes place amid a rising tide of class struggle in the US and internationally. There have been recent strikes in the city by health care workers and University of Illinois faculty. Deteriorating conditions in Chicago Public Schools (CPS) have charter schoolteachers poised to take action. Three thousand workers in several city agencies under AFSCME Local 31, including clerks, 311 operators, librarians, and public health workers are now working without a contract, after months of extensions. Large numbers of workers are concentrated in Chicago in auto and manufacturing, schools, health care, logistics and airline industries, facing years of cuts and deteriorating conditions, compounded by the brutal effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is the real significance of the elevation of policing in the elections, and the class dynamic it expresses. The police are being built up, not to fight crime, but to fight the working class.

No expense is being spared on the elections. Tens of millions are pouring into the mayoral race, with the Sun-Times reporting last week an estimate of $22 million. Significant financial contributions have come from well-connected super PACs, large political action committees often referred to as dark money because they conceal the individuals and organizations intervening in the election and skirt financial reporting rules.

At least one of the organizations supporting Democratic Rep. Jesus Chuy Garcia is called Get Stuff Done and has close ties to former mayor Rahm Emanuel. Vallas and Lightfoot are also benefiting from similar donations, and the PACs are intervening in about 15 competitive city council races as well. In the 48th ward race, Get Stuff Done has paid for overt red-baiting mailers.

The election has also been marked by political violence. Earlier this month, the campaign office of Daniel La Spata, first ward alderman, Democratic Party committeeman and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, was smashed up in what he attributed to political retribution, for delivering a defeat to a disgraced Democratic rival who enjoys the support of sections of the business community and powerful members of the corrupt city council.

The four candidates deemed by the media to have chance to enter into a spring runoff include:

Mayor Lori Lightfoot

Lightfoots term in office has been marked by ruthless pursuit of the interests of capital and brutal acts of police violence, including the murder of 13-year-old Adam Toledo, the beating and intimidation of protesters, the shutting down of the city center, and later the imposition of a curfew on youth in the wealthy downtown area. She has also attempted to block the release of footage of a 2019 police raid made in error on the home of social worker Anjanette Young, who was forced to stand naked in her living room as police ransacked her home.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, May 19, 2021. [AP Photo/John OConnor]

She refused to negotiate with the Chicago Teachers Union in a 2019 strike over critically low staffing levels in Chicago Public Schools, a district that regularly violates special education mandates and infamously denies children library access due to low staffing. After blocking back pay for striking teachers, Lightfoot twice led national campaigns to reopen Chicago Public Schools at high points of COVID-19 infection, promoting the racialist fiction that black and Hispanic youth were worst affected by remote learning, as COVID-19 death and disability ravaged working class households.

In the 2019 election, Lightfoot benefited from those who portrayed her race, gender and sexual orientation as evidence of her progressive political orientation. But she positioned herself as a political outsider who would rein in city council corruption and hold police accountable. Prior to taking office she worked as a U.S. Attorney and later led the Police Accountability Task Force for the previous mayor, Rahm Emanuel, to whitewash police violence in the wake of protests against the police execution of teenager Laquan McDonald.

During her 2019 campaign, Lightfoot pledged to reopen the six municipal mental health clinics closed by Rahm Emanuel, which she has not done. But she allocated $281.5 million in federal COVID-19 relief funds to police payroll costs. This was 70 percent of the $403 million in discretionary funding the city received from the federal government, and about one-third of the citys annual police payroll costs of roughly $862 million.

In recent days, she has made overt racialist appeals to try to boost support for her flagging campaign, although Brandon Johnson is, like her, an African American. Last Saturday at an event supported by Rep. Bobby Rush, Lightfoot called on black residents to vote for her or not at all, saying, Any vote coming from the South Side for somebody not named Lightfoot is a vote for Chuy Garcia or Paul Vallas. If you want them controlling your fate and your destiny, then stay home. Then dont vote.

Lightfoot has come under criticism for allowing two Chicago Police officers involved with two different far-right extremist groups, Robert Bakker with the Proud Boys and Phillip Singto with Oath Keepers, to remain on the force.

Though she enjoys no funding advantage over her rivals, she has support from the right-wing Ricketts family, and a vocal section of businesses. A section of the Democratic Party is backing Lightfoot, including Bobby Rush, Danny Davis, and Robin Kelly, but only a few of the 15 city council committee chairs, those responsible for pushing the mayors agenda through the council, have endorsed her. Others have backed Johnson and Vallas.

Jesus Chuy Garcia

Fourth District Representative Jesus Chuy Garcias campaign has been characterized primarily by his attacks on Lightfoot from the right, accusing her of failing to crack down hard enough on crime and promising to hire about 1,600 police, filling vacancies, and hiring a new superintendent. His debate appearances have been laced with pro-police provocations including, Theres an 85 percent chance you can commit murder in Chicago and get away with it.

Rep. Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, Democrat-Illinois participates in a forum with other Chicago mayoral candidates hosted by the Chicago Women Take Action Alliance January 14, 2023, at the Chicago Temple in Chicago. [AP Photo/Erin Hooley]

In his television ads, Garcia positions himself as tough on crime, intoning, Im Chuy Garcia, and enough is enough. Its time to get back to a safer Chicago now by getting more cops on our streets and illegal guns off of them.

Garcia was the mayoral candidate endorsed by the Chicago Teachers Unions Independent Political Organization in 2015 and promoted by the CTUs pseudo-left CORE leadership faction as a progressive. His intervention pushed then-Mayor Rahm Emanuel into Chicagos first mayoral runoff in 2015, which Garcia lost. Previously, he served as Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkles floor leader.

The supposedly insurgent candidate of 2015 has become the choice of what remains of the Democratic Party machine in 2023, a lesson in itself of the fraudulent character of the labels attached to various candidates by the corporate media.

Garcias political record goes back to the mid-1980s when he served under Mayor Harold Washington. Since then, he has occupied nearly every elected position possible, and operated a non-profit community organization. Garcias main endorsement is the International Union of Operating Engineers, a major building trades union.

Paul Vallas

Born 1953, Vallas is a seasoned crisis manager for the ruling class, leading Chicago Public Schools as CEO under Richard M. Daley, and later moving on to the Philadelphia, Bridgeport, and New Orleans Public Schools systems, leading substantial turnaround and privatization efforts. He also worked in Haiti and Chile after earthquake disasters. In this election he is adding the support of the extreme right to his record. His tenure in the Bridgeport, Connecticut school system, where he was denounced as an authoritarian leader, was ended by a judge who removed him from the position for lack of qualification, calling his purported leadership credentials a sham. Teachers and parents have vocally opposed his campaign.

Former Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas participates in a forum with other Chicago mayoral candidates hosted by the Chicago Women Take Action Alliance Saturday, January 14, 2023, at the Chicago Temple in Chicago. [AP Photo/Erin Hooley]

Vallas is running a far-right campaign, denouncing criticisms of police, and employing racist tropes, pledging to take back our city. Therefore, he has the endorsement of the Chicago Tribune, and a substantial portion of the financial aristocracy, including the investment bankers leading Madison Dearborn Partners, billionaire Sam Zell, chicken magnate Joseph Grendys, and the head of Waste Management Inc., which once contracted with the city but was found to have fraudulently double-charged for its processing services.

Vallas has pledged to hire at least 1,700 police officers, and for armed police to be placed on the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA).

While boasting of his Democratic Party bona fides, Vallas has for many months cultivated a following among far-right extremists, including a close relationship with the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) in Chicago, headed up by the fascist John Cantanzara. Vallas represented the FOP in the latest contract negotiations with the Lightfoot administration.

Vallas also appeared as a featured guest at Awake Illinois events in March 2021 and June 2022. Awake opposed remote learning during the period that governments undertook limited measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The Awake organization, which has significant overlap with Moms for Liberty, opposes public education, promotes Christian nationalism, and anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ prejudice. At the March 2021 event, Vallas encouraged Awake leader Shannon Adcock to run for governor. On July 11, 2022 Vallas served as co-host on the program of far-right AM radio pundit and Trump family associate Mark Vargas. He also appeared on far-right Illinois Republican Jean Ives podcast.

The pretense that such a figure opposes crime is absurd, as the privatization schemes he has overseen are notorious for graft and corruption, at a level remarkable even in the Chicago Democratic Party. After former mayor Richard M. Daley consolidated mayoral control of CPS in the 1990s, Vallas led aggressive privatization of CPS via charter schools. He began this process by campaigning within neighborhood and ward organizations for school choice programs that would benefit local ward and construction bosses. These politically connected, privately managed school deals were ripe for corruption. Just one high profile example is Juan Rangel, finance lead for former mayor Rahm Emanuels election campaign. Rangel created a charter network called UNO (now known as Acero) that took in around $250 million in public money with little to no oversight. Rangel left in disgrace after Emanuel took office.

On February 8, independent news site The Triibe reported one of Vallass sons, a police officer in Texas, was involved in a fatal shooting of a black man.

His campaign has taken in large sums, more than $400,000 from Madison Dearborn Partners, and $100,000 from the head of Waste Management, Inc. Some $17,500 came from Deborah Quazzo, a venture capitalist in education technology and disgraced former member of the Chicago Board of Education, and her husband. Vallas has also benefited from a $165,000 television and digital ad buy from a PAC with undisclosed individuals using campaign media and phrases in apparent violation of campaign finance law.

Brandon Johnson

Brandon Johnson, the candidate supported by much of the Chicago Democratic Socialists of America, claims to be tough and smart about reducing crime, and supporting alternatives to police where mental health and other social problems are at issue. In no way has he repudiated the Democrats right-wing political framework of the election, that crime and public safety are number one, instead opting to respond to it with proposed increases in social services, from the standpoint that they deal with causes of crime and conflict.

Johnson, who served as the CTUs political and legislative director, was elected as Cook County Commissioner in 2018, mainly responsible for the unions legislative agenda in Springfield, the state capital. As early as November 2019 Johnson was identified by Politico as the CTUs choice for a mayoral challenger, noting that he takes in six figures for his legislative work on behalf of CTU. Johnson is a protege of current Cook County Democratic Party chair and County Board Commissioner Toni Preckwinkle, who lost to Lightfoot in the 2019 mayoral runoff.

Johnsons campaign is endorsed and supported by the Chicago Teachers Union and United Working Families, and generously funded by the national, state and local teachers unions. He has received at least $1 million from the American Federation of Teachers, $350,000 from the CTU, $90,000 from the Illinois Federation of Teachers, $50,000 from the Cook County College Teachers Union, $250,000 from SEIU Local 73, and another $300,000 from SEIU Healthcare. Johnson enjoys the support of most of the Democratic Socialists of America alderpersons, as well as former Lightfoot allies in the city council.

In his time as commissioner, Cook County spent $181.7 million, or 42 percent of its $428.5 million in coronavirus relief funding, on the sheriffs office, of which $176 million went to payroll costs. The sheriffs office is responsible for the enormous Cook County Jail, infamous for being the countrys largest informal mental health institution, along with electronic monitoring and policing in parts of the county which do not have their own police department. Cook County Board also passed a non-binding Justice for Black Lives resolution calling for the county to redirect funds from policing and incarceration to public services not administered by law enforcement that promote community health and safety equitably, which received support of 15 of the 17 commissioners.

In recent days, Johnson has roundly rejected any association with political radicalism or left-wing politics. He instead compared himself to Lightfoot at the time of her election, saying: Everything she pretended to be in 2019 is everything we truly are, today.

The claims that support from the teachers unions means Johnsons campaign expresses the interests of working people is a fraud. The American Federation of Teachers, spearheaded by the CTU leaderships spectacular betrayals in winter 2021 and 2022, suppressed and defeated two strike efforts by CPS teachers and parents, sending teachers back into schools at the behest of Lightfoot and the corporate interests she represents.

The CTU blocked two strikes by Chicago teachers who, with parents and others, fought to keep schools remote and children protected from COVID-19. After Bidenwhom former CTU President Jesse Sharkey campaigned fortook office and declared that schools must reopen in 2021, the AFTs president Randi Weingarten turned to the same right-wing forces Paul Vallas has associated with, holding joint panel events with proponents of mass infection with COVID-19.

On a recent interview program, Johnson also opposed extending the right to vote to undocumented immigrants, but cynically claimed there should be participation for undocumented families in making decisions about public education, a position also taken by Garcia.

Speaking with Sun Times senior political reporter Fran Spielman in autumn last year, Johnson assured her podcast listeners his campaign could be relied upon to support machine favorite Chuy Garcia in a runoff. As the race became tighter, Johnson struck a more combative pose, publicly proclaiming that his campaign is serious and accusing Garcia of abandoning the progressive movement.

Political theatrics aside, Johnsons comments clearly indicated he is willing to play a role similar to that of Bernie Sanders, on a smaller scale, advocating for the most meager reforms, winning electoral support on that basis, and then shepherding his supporters in the direction the Democrats choose, inexorably to the right.

Polls now indicate Vallas will make the runoff, and Lightfoot may not, and thus Johnson has gained support, and could be the other choice on the ballot in April, instead of Garcia. Given Johnsons record, public statements and the extraordinarily right-wing character of this election, it would be a grave mistake to think a Johnson administration will represent a progressive alternative to Vallas, Garcia, or Lightfoot. All of these individuals are in the same party.

Also running to unseat Lightfoot are perennial candidate and local millionaire Willie Wilson, a businessman whose main customer is McDonalds; Ald. Sophia King, who led the education committee in city council; Ald. Roderick Sawyer, son of the former mayor Eugene Sawyer; and Jamal Greene, a small businessman.
Moldova, a former Soviet republic of 2.6 million people, is in the grips of a severe political crisis as its government prepares to drag it into the NATO war against Russia.

The country is sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine and has long been one of Europes poorest countries.

Since 1994, Moldova has maintained a constitutionally enshrined status of neutrality vis-a-vis NATO and other military alliances. The status was key to preserving a settlement of the conflict around Transnistria or the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR) in Moldova, a Russian-speaking breakaway republic on the border to Ukraine which has claimed independence since the breakup of the Soviet Union. In a war that lasted from November 1990 through the spring of 1992, the authorities of the PMR received military support from Russia, which still has 1,500 troops stationed in the region. Moldova, by contrast, has been backed in the conflict by NATO member Romania.

This map shows the location of Transnistria in Europe. [Photo by TUBS / CC BY-NC-SA 3.0

However, under President Maia Sandu, Moldova has openly sided with NATO in the war against Russia and is now even discussing joining the military alliance. Last week, Sandu met with US President Joe Biden, and the Polish and Romanian presidents on the sidelines of the Bucharest Nine summit of NATOs Eastern European member states, after the US president praised her profusely in his speech on Ukraine.

In early February, after the forced resignation of the previous prime minister Natalia Gavrilita, a new government was sworn in under Dorin Recean, a hardliner and Sandu loyalist. The change in government marks an important moment in the countrys slide towards authoritarianism and war.

Since the change in government, Moldova has been thrown into a state of permanent war hysteria, with the president or prime minister having repeatedly warned that the takeover of the country by the Kremlin was imminent. The government is deliberately whipping up a climate of war fever in order to increasingly align the territory with the NATO war against Russia as well as to poison the internal atmosphere and stifle protests.

The fall of the previous government under Gavrilita and the turn to ever more authoritarian forms of rule were precipitated by massive protests against the rising cost of living and war, which took place in the country for over six months. The protests started in August in the autonomous Gagauz province and spread to the capital Chisinau and other regions by autumn. Protesters demanded Sandus resignation and an end to the war drive against Russia.

Fearing that protests could destabilize the regime and its pro-EU course, authorities sought to criminalize protests and any form of opposition. Protesters, numbering at times in the tens of thousands, have been vilified as paid Russian agents and part of Russian hybrid warfare.

In the run-up to the latest protest in Chisinau on February 19, the pro-Russian Shor Party offices were raided, with authorities claiming to find Russian money that was used to pay off protesters. Seven television stations were also shut down because they allegedly had a lack of correct information in the coverage of national events, but also of the war in Ukraine. Four of the channels regularly broadcast Russian television shows, and some were linked to Ilan Shor, a fugitive oligarch and leader of the Shor Party.

The conflict around Transnistria has also flared up again in full force. Sandu had been in open conflict with her government since December, when she accused Energy Minister Andrej Spinu of handing gas supplied by Gazprom to Transnistria.

Amidst the NATO war against Russia in Ukraine, Moldova came under pressure to cut off its remaining economic ties with Russia. This has led to catastrophic price hikes for working people, as well as gas and energy shortages. Even before the war, Moldova was one of the poorest countries in Europe, second only to Ukraine.

The almost 500,000 people who live in Transnistria remained in a virtual state of siege, caught between a hostile Chisinau and Ukrainian tanks. The two territories that comprised the Moldovan Soviet Republic have remained heavily intertwined despite the state of hostility, with the Transnistrian side providing electricity and industrial goods, but relying completely on Chisinau for raw materials. The Moldovan side increasingly sought to pressure the authorities in the capital of Transnistria, Tiraspol, especially by withholding its share of the natural gas received from Gazprom.

In November, the Transnistrian authorities spoke of an impending humanitarian crisis, as industrial activities had come to a halt and households were facing a dramatic shortage in heating. Many politicians and commentators in Chisinau rejoiced at the prospect of forcing an economic collapse of Transnistria and the fall of its government.

As the year drew to a close, the economic situation was spiraling out of control, and the governments position became increasingly untenable.

While the government kept gas stocks in Romania and Ukraine, it had no way of assuring the generation of electric power. The lines from Romania passed through territory controlled by Tiraspol and the Ukrainian provider was taken out by Russian missile strikes.

Under these circumstances, Spinu and Gavrilita decided to give the gas from Gazprom to Tiraspol, in exchange for preferential prices on electricity produced by Transnistrias plants. The move bought relief for both territories but was criticized in hysterical terms by hardliners in Chisinau and Bucharest who accused Spinu of financing and saving the Transnistrian government.

A few days before Gavrilita and Spinu were forced out of the government, Moldovas parliament passed a landmark new anti-secession law, which criminalizes the authorities on the left side of the Dniester River and effectively ends the 30 years of peace negotiations and the prospect of a negotiated settlement.

Moldova has also developed close links to the Ukrainian government under Volodymyr Zelensky. Various provocations and imminent attacks are announced first by Zelensky or the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU), with Moldovan officials confirming and announcing further repressive measures. Sandu recently called for a speedup to ram through Parliament several laws which will give greater powers to the Moldovan secret services (SIS) and the prosecutors office.

In an interview with Moldovan TV8 and Romanian Digi24, Zelenskys adviser Mykhailo Podolyak called the Moldovan protesters bandits and bands of criminals and asked Moldova to make the correct choice.

The Russian Ministry of Defense has accused Ukraine of massing troops and equipment on the border of Transnistria, and warned that any assault on the territory would be considered an attack on Russia.

Denials were issued by Ukraine, Moldova and also by Romania. In the days leading up to the standoff, Recean talked about the demilitarization of the Transnistrian region.

In a bizarre and revealing declaration at the Munich Security conference, quoted by the Ukrainian European Pravda, Sandu said that so far there is no public support for changing this [the official neutrality policy] and that even though there was a serious threat of the occupation of Moldova by Russian troops, Ukraine is ensuring our security.

Klaus Iohannis, the president of Romania, a NATO member, also warned on February 22 that Romania is not just ready, but willing to support Moldova in any scenario. How this will look depends on the geopolitical evolution. For now we support with gases, electricity and institutional reforms, but I personally, I am prepared to go much further if the situation calls for it.
On February 21, a group of neo-Nazis staged a provocation outside a new Broadway production of Parade, a musical about the murder of Jewish-American Leo Frank by a lynch mob in Georgia in 1915. Such a provocation in the theater district, centrally located in Manhattan, is unheard of in recent memory.

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre, site of neo-Nazi protest [Photo by Ajay Suresh / CC BY 2.0

The fascists, who numbered about a dozen and identified themselves as the National Socialist Movement and the Empire State Stormers, accused those waiting to get into the theater of paying $300 to worship a pedophile while New York Police Department (NYPD) officers stood by and watched. The few officers dispatched to a central area like this, where hundreds could be summoned almost immediately, indicates a deliberate leniency in relation to the far right.

The fascist flyers denounced the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which was founded in 1913 in response to Franks frame-up for the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan, and referenced the Goyim Defense League, a group that blames Jews for the COVID-19 pandemic and inspired at least one anti-Semitic shooting that took place recently in Los Angeles.

On February 22, Parades producers said in a statement, If there is any remaining doubt out there about the urgency of telling this story in this moment in history, the vileness on display last night should put it to rest. The shows lead performer, Ben Platt, also denounced the fascists in a statement on Instagram.

On Friday night, right-wing Democratic Mayor Eric Adams appeared on stage before another preview of Parade and pointlessly declared, We have the largest Jewish population outside of Tel Aviv. And when you come out and really cross-pollinate ideas and culture, thats the beauty and a symbol of New York City.

In his brief comments, Adams made no reference to any efforts by his administration to fight anti-Semitism or fascism. Anti-semitic incidents have risen sharply in recent years, particularly after the election of Donald Trump in 2016.

Parade has a book by Alfred Uhry, the author of the play Driving Miss Daisy, on which the 1989 film of the same title, directed by Bruce Beresford, was based, and music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown. It originally premiered on Broadway in 1998 and won several awards. The revival is being staged at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre.

Playbill cover for Parade

The musical concerns the arrest, trial, conviction and lynching of Leo Frank, the manager of a pencil factory in Atlanta.

On April 27, 1913, the body of 13-year-old Mary Phagan, a worker at the factory, was discovered in the basement. She had been strangled and likely raped. Although police had several suspects, they arrested Frank.

A trial followed, during which the prosecution alleged that Frank (born 1884) had sex with factory girls in his office. The right-wing segregationist press in Georgia intimated that Frank was a rich Jew who preyed on girls. Such sentiments were whipped up in the most backward layers of the population and certainly had an impact on the jury. The leader of the Populist Party, Tom Watson, a reactionary by 1913, said, If Franks rich connections keep on lying about this case, SOMETHING BAD WILL HAPPEN.

Frank was found guilty of murder and sentenced to death. His appeals were rejected by the Georgia Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court heard the case, but refused to issue a ruling. Franks case was later reviewed by Georgia Governor John Slaton, who commuted his sentence in June 1915 from death to life in prison because of inconsistencies in the evidence, an act which earned him over 1,000 death threats. Slaton was warned after his decision that he had activated lynch law. He and his wife were forced to leave the state.

In a well-organized operation, Frank was abducted from jail on August 15 and driven 175 miles to rural Marietta, Georgia, Mary Phagans hometown, where he was handcuffed by the local sheriff and hanged from a tree.

The identities of the organizers of the lynching were unknown until 2000 when it was revealed that prominent citizens were behind it, including the former governor of Georgia, Joseph Mackey Brown; former mayor of Marietta, Eugene Herbert Clay, who was later president of the Georgia Senate; and the then mayor of Marietta, E. P. Dobbs, as well as wealthy bankers and lawyers.

Leo Frank

The trial, conviction and lynching of Frank were national news and activated a struggle by Jews against anti-Semitism. The Anti-Defamation League was founded in response to the Frank case. The case was also closely followed by the socialist movement. Abraham Cahan, the novelist, and editor of New York Citys Forward, the Yiddish-language socialist daily read by hundreds of thousands of workers, traveled to Georgia and interviewed Frank.

Historians agree that Frank was entirely innocent of the murder of Mary Phagan.

The new production of Parade is indeed timely. It comes in a period of rising anti-Semitism and the attempts of the American far right to integrate itself into mainstream politics. Saturday was declared a National Day of Hate by an Iowa fascist group, which proclaimed that the one true enemy of the American people is the Jew, and urged other fascists to shock the masses with banner drops, stickers, flyers and graffiti. Inaction is unacceptable. The post gained traction on social media, and the tweets of the ADL, exposing the action, elicited right-wing and anti-Semitic comments.

In all this, the fascists are assisted directly by the Republican Party, which cultivate these elements, but also by those that seek to legitimize them as part of a supposed anti-war movement in response to the conflict in Ukraine.

The Democratic Party, for its part, has promoted the politics of racial and gender identity, creating a foul atmosphere which fascists find congenial.

There is no question but that those who protested at the preview of Parade have been emboldened, at least in part, by the charges of pedophilia made by the cohorts of #MeToo, against prominent Jewish filmmakers, such as Roman Polanski and Woody Allen. Right-wing thugs like Glenn Beck and Pat Buchanan have attempted for years to whip up anti-Semitism coded as attacks on Hollywood types.
The Socialist Equality Party held a speak out in Liverpool, southwest Sydney, on Saturday as part of their campaign for the New South Wales (NSW) election.

SEP candidates Oscar Grenfell and Max Boddy, along with other party members, spoke to people in the working-class suburb about the need for a socialist alternative to the program of war and austerity put forward by all other parties in the election.

SEP (Australia) candidates hold speak out in south-west Sydney

Grenfell, a WSWS writer and the SEPs lead candidate for the Senate in NSW, said that the partys campaign was aimed at taking forward the fight against austerity and war. He said that the election would resolve nothing for the working class. All of the other parties, including Labor, the Liberal-National Coalition and the Greens were pro-war parties of the banks and big business.

Grenfell stated that the SEP campaign was the only one centrally raising the question of war. Today, February 25 marks a significant anniversary, he stated. It was one year of the war in Ukraine, which was not a regional conflict, but a developing global conflagration pitting the US and NATO against Russia and Ukraine. Grenfell stressed the urgency of building an international anti-war movement of the working class, based on a socialist program.

Oscar Grenfell [Photo: WSWS]

Boddy, the SEPs Assistant National Secretary and its candidate for the seat of Bankstown, in working-class southwest Sydney, linked the issue of war with the social crisis facing the working class. The prices of all basic commodities, including food, were soaring. Mortgages were rapidly rising, but real wages were stagnating. It was the working class, Boddy warned, that would be forced to pay for war as well as the deepening crisis of global capitalism.

Meanwhile, Boddy stated, the ruling elite were making money hand over fist. Nobody voted for this state of affairs. But the only way out of this situation is for the working class to unite in a genuine opposition to the very capitalist system that has created these intolerable conditions. The SEP was advancing a socialist program along these lines, including for the expropriation of the banks and the corporations, and for billions to be allocated to education, healthcare and social services, not to war and big business profits.

Max Boddy, SEP candidate for NSW Legislative Assembly seat of Bankstown at street meeting in late February, 2023. [Photo: WSWS]

The SEPs call for an international anti-war movement of the working class won a strong response among workers and young people, many of whom had personal or family experience of the devastating consequences of imperialist war.

The population of the Liverpool electorate is extremely diverse. Just 45 percent were born in Australia, compared to 65 percent in NSW as a whole, and only 14 percent of residents are descended from two Australian-born parents. More than 8 percent of the population were born in Iraq, compared to 0.7 percent statewide.

The region contains areas of serious economic oppression. At the time of the 2021 Census, median weekly household income in the electorate was $1,459, 30 percent lower than the figure for Greater Sydney. The official unemployment rate, which vastly understates the reality, was 8.6 percent, 75 percent higher than for all of NSW.

Workers and young people spoke to World Socialist Web Site reporters about their concerns over the growing threat of world war, the rapidly rising cost of living and the slashing of essential services such as health and education.

****

Eddy, a 21-year-old apprentice electrician, said the US was using Ukraine as a puppet, just to get to Russia and China, to steal their resources.

Eddy [Photo: WSWS]

He drew a parallel with the devastating effects of the US imperialist war in Iraq: You can see today in Iraq, theres no water, no electricity, no clean food, no anything. You can clearly see that, in every country where America intervenes, everything goes downhill. It was a war for the oil, the money, the gold.

It was based on lies, the weapons of mass destruction that were never found in Iraq. I believe that Julian Assange should be free. I believe what hes doing is the right thing, to expose the truth behind the invasion of Iraq, my home country, and all the other attacks on the Middle East.

Eddy also referred to the immense cost of war to the working class at home: With the money going to war, use it for something elseyoung people, homelessnessuse it for something good that can help society.

Baraa, a 16-year-old high school student, said, I think its scary because we dont get a say in it and were the people that are going to war in the future. Were going to get our lives ruined, rather than the people who are sending us there.

Baraa [Photo: WSWS]

Asked why governments do nothing to stop wars, Baraa said, Its about the power, them being in control. Wars keep them in power and the poor divided. They want us to turn against a common enemy, while they just laugh and stay in their mansions.

Elizabeth, a public sector worker, said it was important for workers to oppose the war in Ukraine because, We are worried that this can escalate into a third world war. More and more countries are getting pulled into this drama. It concerns the whole world.

Gabriel, a tiler, added, Innocent people are getting killed every day.

Gabriel and Elizabeth with SEP candidate Max Boddy [Photo: WSWS]

Elizabeth continued, On top of everything, the pandemic, war, the world is in such a state of despair. Look at the mess that we are leaving to the younger generation.

This climate creates the environment for a revolution. Eventually, people are going to have to react. When nothing gets done, when you cant get anywhere and you hit a brick wall, whats going to happen? Thats why revolutions have happened in history and thats sometimes the only way that can bring a change.

Contact the SEP:

Phone: (02) 8218 3222

Email: sep@sep.org.au

Facebook: SocialistEqualityPartyAustralia

Twitter: @SEP_Australia

Instagram: socialistequalityparty_au

TikTok: @sep_australia

Authorised by Cheryl Crisp for the Socialist Equality Party, Suite 906, 185 Elizabeth Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000.
The Socialist Equality Partys local government election campaign in Sri Lanka has won significant support among plantation workers from Maskeliya in the Nuwaraeliya district.

Young people listening to SEP campaigner prior to a previous meeting in Maskeliya township. [Photo: WSWS]

Last week, in an unprecedented attack on democratic rights, President Wickremesinghe cancelled the scheduled March 9 local government elections. The government scuttled the elections, fearful that an almost certain electoral defeat of its candidates in the poll would undermine its efforts to impose International Monetary Fund austerity measures. On Friday, the Sri Lankan Election Commission met and formally announced that it was postponing the elections, with a new date to be announced on March 3.

The SEP intervened in the elections to take forward the building of an independent movement of the working class and rural toilers, based on an international socialist perspective to fight the governments social attacks and the growing danger of world war.

Maskeliya Pradeshiya Sabha in the Nuwaraeliya district is one of three local government bodies the SEP was contesting. More than 75 percent of the districts residents are tea plantation workers.

Three of the SEPs 19 candidates for Maskeliya Pradeshiya Sabha are members of the Plantation Workers Action Committee (PWAC) established on the partys initiative. A. Parimaladevi, one of the SEP candidates, is from the Alton Estate. She is among 38 workers witch-hunted and sacked by management over their active role in a 47-day strike for higher wages in early 2021.

A. Parimaladevi outside her incomplete home at Alton Estate. [Photo: WSWS]

SEP and PWAC members campaigned at the Alton, Fairlawn, Glenugie, Strathspey and Gartmore estates in the Maskeliya area in the two weeks prior to Wickremesinghes cancellation of the local government polls.

Many plantation workers denounced the Wickremesinghe government and the treacherous role of the Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) and the other plantation sector trade unions. Last month, CWC leader Jeevan Thondaman became a cabinet minister in Wickremesinghes government.

A retired worker from Alton Estate, who joined SEP campaigners while visiting fellow workers quarters, denounced the CWC for supporting the government.

He also accused estate management for doing nothing for our welfare. This was a reference to the fact that a non-government organisationnot managementhad established a water supply facility at the estate. We are starving because the price of goods is unbearable for us, he added, explaining that workers have still not decided who to vote for.

The government and the media are constantly attempting to cover up the consequences of the US-NATO war against Russian in Ukraine and the danger of a third world war. However, several workers explained how the ongoing conflict directly impacted on their lives.

A female worker from Norwood Fashions factory and mother of one child said that she and several other employees lost their jobs because of the war. Management had bluntly declared that garment orders from Europe have stopped and jobs had to be cut.

Very few people are now working in that factory, she said. I do agree that the war must be stopped immediately. All over the world people are suffering and are affected by the war. Petrol and diesel prices are being increased because of this conflict.

Arumugam Murugan, a worker from Alton Estates 10th division, explained the increased exploitation imposed under the so-called Revenue Sharing System (RSS), which was partially introduced in the division nearly four years ago. Management, supported by all the trade unions, divided part of the estate, handing over sections to 45 workers. These workers were granted 1,500 tea bushes each.

Line room homes at Alton Estate. [Photo: WSWS]

We have suffered a lot under this system, Murugan said. We have to do all the work involved, including tea plucking and cleaning the ground. Even though management supplies fertiliser and agri-chemicals, we do all the back-breaking work by ourselves.

Workers have also been deprived of their rest days because they have to work in the main part of the estate, which is not under RSS, as well as in the RSS sections, he explained. Management only pays 50 rupees per kilo of tea leaves from the RSS areas, even though the regular price is usually 150 rupees.

We are compelled to work in these [RSS] fields even on Sundays, which is supposed to be our holiday. Previously, if we worked on Sundays, we would be paid for one and-a half days, with EPF [Employee Provident Fund] and ETF [Employee Trust Fund] benefits. Weve now lost that, Murugan said. The SEPs call for the formation of independent action committees of workers, he said, is a good idea. We have to talk to other workers about this.

S. Kristila 37, a housewife from the Deeside division of the Glenugie Estate, spoke about the rising cost of living and the inadequate salaries paid to workers. Their wages are not even enough for their meals. They cannot even buy dried fish to add to their meals because of the high cost of living. None of the plantation unions or the political parties cares about these workers lives, she said.

Referring to the capitalist politicians, she added, They come to the estate asking for us to vote for them. They pretend that they are for improving workers conditions but theyre only working to improve their own comfortable lives. Your party is different. I know that because it is always supporting workers struggles to fight for their rights.

Referring to CWC leader Thondaman joining Wickremesinghes cabinet, she said: These people have previously taken ministerial posts but did nothing for us. Thondaman will do nothing for us this time also. Instead, he has proposed to increase water tariffs.

M. Selvaranee, a female worker from the Strathspey Estate in Upcot, said her house had caught fire because of an electricity fault, a regular occurrence in the plantation areas. The blaze destroyed most of her home, along with valuables and clothing, and the schoolbooks of her grandchildren. She was worried that the skyrocketing cost of living would make it very difficult to recover from the fire and restore the damage.

Selvaranee outside her fire damaged home at the Strathspey Estate in Maskeliya. [Photo: WSWS]

Adding salt to her wounds, Selvaranee explained that her daughter had been working as a housemaid in Saudi Arabia but died there from COVID-19, leaving her two children in Selvaranees care. The Saudi house owner did not send her outstanding salary for a whole year. Without any income to look after the orphans, Selvaranee had to resume work at the estate on a casual basis.

We informed the agency that sent my daughter abroad about her death, but nothing happened. I approached all the trade unions and political parties, asking for their help to get my daughters outstanding wages from Saudi Arabia, but nobody helped us.

M. Yohan, from Alton Estate, said he has worked at the estate for almost two years but has not yet been made permanent.

It is very difficult to live on a wage of only 1,000 rupees per day, and to get that salary, tea plucking workers must harvest 18kg per day. I look after five childrenmine and my sisters. My sister works in the Middle East as a housemaid and she sends us 25,000 rupees per month. My wife doesnt work. We also have to pay for the education of our children, he said.

Yohan and his family at Alton Estate in Upcot. [Photo: WSWS]

The trade unions are doing nothing for workers, he added. This is the first time Ive learnt about your program and Im ready to discuss it more in the future.

T. Selvaranee, who had to stop working at the estate for health reasons, lives in a small hut with her three children. Im a heart patient and find it very difficult to live in this hut, she told SEP campaigners. We have told estate management, the trade unions, an NGO and other organisations about my plight but nobody has cared about our appeals.

Wasanthan, 20, who works as an electrician at the estate said: I have read your leaflet on the election and there are good things in it. I know all the parties and trade unions visit the estate during the elections. They make all sorts of promises but after they come to power none are implemented. I know that you are different. I have already started discussing with youth [in the estate] about your party.
Do you work at Norfolk Southern or another Class I railway? Do you live in East Palestine or a neighboring community? Tell us what you know about the Norfolk Southern disaster by filling out the form at the bottom of this article. All submissions will be kept anonymous.

East Palestine, Ohio residents gather outside a town hall on February 24, 2023. [Photo: WSWS]

Residents of East Palestine and surrounding areas packed a town hall meeting hosted by environmental advocate Erin Brockovich Friday evening to hear presentations on the dangers posed by the train derailment and subsequent release and burn of toxic chemicals. Brockovichs group, East Palestine Justice, is a team of lawyers and health experts preparing a class action suit against Norfolk Southern.

The meeting attracted hundreds of residents both from East Palestine as well as the surrounding communities. Many people also traveled from neighboring regions to learn about this environmental disaster, its causes and what can be done about it.

At the meeting, residents heard stark reports from panelists. Youre in a situation where youre going to be dealing with this for the rest of your lives if you stay here, hydrology expert Bob Bowcock told the meeting. Vinyl chloride, the main contaminant released in the disaster, moves very easily through the ground and is not easy to remove from the soil. Vinyl chloride is highly toxic and a Category 1A carcinogen. It causes liver, brain and lung cancer along with lymphoma and leukemia. It also has the potential to damage the nervous and immune systems and can lead to a decrease in bone strength. To make matters worse, the water supply in East Palestine is uniquely vulnerable to contamination.

Activist Erin Brockovich speaks during a town hall meeting at East Palestine High School concerning the Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern freight train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, Friday, February 24, 2023. [AP Photo/Matt Freed]

Prior to the start of the meeting, the National Transportation Safety Board issued its preliminary report on the derailment which, even in its abbreviated form, made clear that the accident which has devastated the town was completely preventable and that through its actions Norfolk Southern ignored warning for nearly an hour that one of the axles was overheating and would fail.

On Friday, the EPA stopped Norfolk Southern from shipping contaminated water and mud for disposal. Previously, the railroad had been shipping waste to three sites, one in suburban Houston, one in southeast Michigan and one in Ohio. This was apparently done without even notifying local officials. In Texas, the local government first learned that waste materials were being shipped to sites in their areas after truckloads had already been brought in.

Outside the event, the World Socialist Web Site spoke with residents on the impact of the disaster, the role of Norfolk Southern and of both the Trump and Biden administrations in cutting safety regulations governing the railroads that led up to this disaster.

Laurie Mattern and Janice Evans both live outside East Palestine and worry that those in surrounding communities are being forgotten. Lauries mother lives in Beavercreek. If they dont clean this up, it [the pollution] is going to run right by her, she worried.

Laurie Mattern (left) and Janice Evans, of East Palestine. [Photo: WSWS]

She says that she has seen people testing the water three times and so far nothing has been found. But she also believes the water is not being properly cleaned, noting that all they are doing are things like pumping the water out, running it through the system and pumping it back in.

What are they going to do about the mud and everything? she asked. It is already settled down in there and that will leach back into the water. We dont know the long-term effects. All they care about is their money, their profits, the bottom line.

Abby and Marty Hostetler said that Leslie Run, a highly contaminated creek which has received significant attention, passes through their backyard. It is contaminated, all the fish are dead, everything is dead and our well is about 30 feet from the stream.

When it happened, we had all kinds [of] headaches, sore throats, we evacuated, but when we came home, it mustve come through our chimney cause the whole house smelled of the chemicals. You couldnt breathe.

They worry that the creek will remain polluted and what that will do to peoples lives. There are no signs to stay away from the water. No caution tape. On Sunday, I saw three kids playing in the creek. It is still contaminated.

Janice lives less than three miles away in Negley, Ohio. Leslie Run runs around our town. Our water table is around 65 feet, and we dont have city water; everybody has well water, and if that stuff gets into our water table, everybodys water down there is going to be ruined.

I understand it happened in East Palestine, but everyone around here got hit. It is all around here, they try to make it sound like it didnt go very far, but it did.

Janice is angry at Norfolk Southerns response and says she does not trust the EPA. She points to the opening of a dump a few years ago that was only supposed to contain construction materials. But, she says, toxins were dumped there, preventing people from drinking their well water.

Like many others at the meeting, Janice could not understand why they did not stop the train after the wheel caught fire, as far back as Salem. They could clearly see that that train was on fire when it came through Salem; when it came through Salem it was on fire. I just cant believe that they couldnt get that train stopped.

Janice pointed out that they quickly moved to begin running trains across the track after the release and burn (NS has since shut down the track and excavated the surrounding soil). They are still pulling dead fish out of that creek. Anything that drinks that water is going to be dead too. They have upended peoples lives.

Many people are very concerned about the long-term impact. Lisa Murphy lives and works near the crash site and she has a 14-year-old daughter who goes to school here.

She has no future. You dont know what the long-term effects are and all the money in the world is not going to fix that. You cant buy her new organs. I dont know if that is going to happen, but that is what Im scared of.

She, like many residents, is now trapped financially in the town because their houses have become worthless and people are moving away. She notes that several of her neighbors have already moved away and put their houses up for sale.

All our houses are worthless. I live just a few blocks from here. Nobody is going to want to move into this town.

It is all about profit, she says. We all rely upon the railroad, but they have to be safe.

Referring to the appearance of former president Donald Trump, who came to East Palestine two days earlier and gave out bottled water, she quipped, Mr. Wonderful, Trump, is one of the people who helped cut that stuff [safety regulations].

Lisa Amora Regal is a nurse, and she describes how she and her daughter have been waking up with severe headaches and sore throats. She points out that Norfolk Southern knew that the train was having a problem even before Salem, Ohio. Im fed up with the safety violations. Im a nurse; I know what this stuff does. We need to do something to get the safety regulations and the infrastructure.

Nurse Lisa Amora Regal. [Photo: WSWS]

Loretta Kunkle lives within half a mile of the crash site. She says that she was not home at the time but her daughter was and how terrified she was for her. She says she raced home and picked up her daughter. I got home and we headed out of town. I didnt know what the train was carrying. But I knew it wasnt good.

Im still not home, she says. It is not safe, the water, people breaking out in rashes.

How many times had she heard people saying the water is safe? It may be safe for the moment, but within time, it is going to hit the water table.

Railroad safety is horrible, she says, and she blames the company for cutting staff.

How many peoples lives are in jeopardy, for what? A couple of bucks? she asks. Im glad that nobody was hurt that evening, It will cost people lives eventually. This town is going to pay the price. The kids will pay the price.

Loretta Kunkle (left) and Ron Johnson. [Photo: WSWS]

Ron Johnson works in New Castle, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles away, and he says that they could smell the burning off of the vinyl chloride there. He says he and his family went to Tennessee during the evacuation. He says the response of Norfolk Southern was terrible. They rushed it, they just wanted to get the trains through. They had them backed up there pretty good.

The controlled burn, that is another thing that shouldnt have been done. It was a rush job to get the trains running; they were losing too much money. It was costing them a lot.

The railroads are no different than any other lobbies. The politicians are going to suck up to them. The little guy is never going to be seen.
As the US-NATO war against Russia enters its second year in Ukraine, Washington is recklessly escalating the conflict. After it sent battle tanks to Ukraine, there is public discussion of sending fighter jets and even NATO ground troops, which could quickly trigger a global military conflagration between nuclear-armed powers. Beyond Ukraine, Washington and its European imperialist allies are ratcheting up pressure on Russia, including in the Arctic and Baltic Sea regions.

U.S. Marines inspect a MV-22B Osprey prior to flight at Norwegian Air Force Base Bodo during Exercise Cold Response 22, Norway, March 16, 2022. [AP Photo/Lance Cpl. Elias E. Pimentel III/U.S. Marine Corps via AP]

Norways Evenes Air Station, north of the Arctic Circle, is to become a regional hub for surveillance of Russia. Details on the joint project between the United States, Britain and Norway were provided earlier this month in comments by Norwegian Minister of Defence Bjrn Arild Gramm, who said the base will host USP-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft.

Two Arctic bases, Evenes and the Ramsund naval base, are the subject of an upgraded bilateral defence cooperation agreement between Washington and Oslo. They are classified as agreed areas, which grant US forces unimpeded access to the bases and exclusive rights to certain parts of them. The agreement provides for US jurisdiction over all US Army personnel in the country, including for crimes they commit off-duty, and even over Norwegian citizens who come into contact with the agreed areas.

Washington initiated talks on the bilateral agreement, and the Biden administration said the deal was an invariable requirement for further US investment in Norwegian facilities.

Eight months after the agreements commencement, it clearly aims to create a framework for a massive military build-up across the Arctic and Scandinavia. Indeed, Washington is negotiating similar arrangements with Denmark, Finland and Sweden. A likely candidate for agreed area status in Sweden is the island of Gotland, the site of a key Cold War-era Swedish military base just 300 kilometres northwest of Russias Kaliningrad exclave.

Charly Salonius-Pasternak, a researcher at the Finnish Institute for International Affairs, said Washington could demand agreed areas in Finland as well, including the Rovaniemi Airport in the north, writing:

The opportunity to store equipment and materiel in advance, which is included in the Norwegian-American agreement, clearly expresses American commitment. It would be beneficial if the US and Finland agree that American forces can store, for example, 500 anti-tank missiles and 500 anti-aircraft missiles in Finland and that a mechanism is designed so that Finnish forces can use these in extreme cases before US support arrives.

On agreed areas in Norway, Defence Minister Gramm said: At Evenes, the aim is to develop cooperation between Norwegian, British, and American P-8 maritime surveillance aircraftin accordance with the investments that are made in the Norwegian Armed Forces long-term plan. These include five P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft bought by Norway, which will work with British Poseidons to search for and destroy underwater targets, i.e., submarines. Evenes also hosts Norways US-produced F-35 fighter jets.

Ramsund will serve as a maritime logistics hub for large-scale military activities in the region by the US and other NATO powers. Gramm said:

In the current long-term plan for the defense sector, it is planned that the Ramsund Naval Base will have an expanded role as the Navy's base in the Northand that the base is further developed to support the Navy and allies, including expanded quay facilities, storage of ammunition, logistics, and maintenance.  Our NATO allies train and exercise regularly in Norway, something that may also involve periodical presence in connection with logistics support. Increased cooperation with the US and other allies at Evenes and Ramsund is desired and will provide economies of scale and increased operative effect.

Norways location on the northwest of the Scandinavian Peninsula and with a 196-kilometre border with Russia make it a key ally for US imperialism to open a northern front in its war with Russia. This was underscored in a new military summit on the Arctic in January in Oslo. Chaired by General Mark Milley, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, it included US and Norwegian officials and from 11 close allies and partners that the Norwegian Armed Forces refused to identify.

Emphasizing that the gathering will convene several times per year, the Norwegian Armed Forces declared: This meeting with Allies and Partners builds collective understanding of the evolving strategic environment and informs military advice on key issues. The senior military leaders exchanged perspectives on shared strategic challenges, to include the Arctic and High North, the persistent threat of terrorism, and the changing dynamics of the South China Sea.

Januarys meeting was the latest in several military-security gatherings on geostrategy preparing for war in the Arctic and Northern Europe. Last August, Canada hosted an Arctic Chiefs of Defence meeting with representatives of the US, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. In October, the Northern Europe Chiefs of Defence Conference was held in Poland. Participants included the Nordic countries, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, Britain, Canada and the US.

Norway also hosts regular military exercises. Over 10,000 Norwegian and allied troops, including forces from the US, Britain and the Netherlands, will participate in Joint Viking 2023 in the Troms district of northern Norway on March 4-16. Norway also hosts the NATO exercise Cold Response, which is being expanded for 2024 into a jointly-organised exercise with Finland and Sweden called Nordic Response.

These exercises are part of a comprehensive regional plan for war on Russia. This emerges in advice prepared by the Nordic countries chiefs of staff to their governments for a meeting of the Nordic Defence Cooperation (Nordefco) last November. Nordefco was set up in 2009 and has helped train Finnish and Swedish military personnel to use NATO equipment and procedures even if they are not yet NATO members.

Their proposals included identifying four ports in western Scandinavia that could be used as transport hubs for military personnel and equipment in the event of a crisis. The ports include Narvik and Trondheim in Norway, Gothenburg in Sweden and Esbjerg in Denmark.

Veteran journalist Seymour Hershs exposure of the US role in bombing the Nord Stream pipelines in the Baltic last September underscored just how important Norway already is to US military and intelligence operations. Hersh documented secret meetings between US and Norwegian military and intelligence personnel in the months prior to NATOs BALTOPS 22 exercise in June 2022, which served as the cover for US military divers to plant the explosives on the pipelines.

One such meeting took place in March 2022 between the Norwegian secret service and navy and US officials. It led to a proposal by Norway to take advantage of shallow waters off Bornholm, an island on Denmarks east coast, to bomb the pipelines. Norwegian officials also proposed using NATOs BALTOPS 22 exercise in June 2022 as the cover to plant explosives on the Nord Stream pipelines.

After the Biden administration decided on a delayed explosion to create a degree of plausible deniability, it was, according to Hersh, a Norwegian aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea on September 26 that dropped a buoy to trigger the blast. Explaining Norways centrality to US operations against Russia, Hersh wrote:

In the past few years of East-West crisis, the U.S. military has vastly expanded its presence inside Norway, whose western border runs 1,400 miles along the North Atlantic Ocean and merges above the Arctic Circle with Russia. The Pentagon has created high-paying jobs and contracts, amid some local controversy, by investing hundreds of millions of dollars to upgrade and expand American Navy and Air Force facilities in Norway. The new works included, most importantly, an advanced synthetic aperture radar far up north that was capable of penetrating deep into Russia and came online just as the American intelligence community lost access to a series of long-range listening sites inside China.

Norways powerful energy sector has been a major beneficiary, together with the United States, of sanctions on Russia and the destruction of the Nord Stream pipelines. Norwegian natural gas exports to Europe rose 3.3 percent in 2022. Deliveries to Germany shot up 11 percent year over year.

Germany has expanded its network of liquified natural gas terminals to include locations in Wilhelmshaven, Brunsbuttel and Lubmin. By December 2023, they will have a total annual capacity of 30 billion cubic metresabout half the gas supplied through Nord Stream 1 in 2021. This exposes the interests underlying the unprecedented decision of Norways Labour-led government to criminalise an oil strike last summer, immediately after a visit by German Economy Minister Robert Habeck.
French block to appear in Vorzel near Kyiv as part of restoration

It is planned to build a French block around the Vorzel Museum of History and Culture Uvarova House (an architectural monument of local significance), Bucha Mayor Anatoliy Fedoruk said.

"For several months now, a group of French architects has been working on a concept for the development of this part of Vorzel, which we intend to develop as a cultural and educational space. On the one hand, it is important to preserve and restore the Uvarova House itself. On the other hand, to build a new building of school No. 10 and a pre-school educational institution destroyed by Russians," he said on the Telegram channel.

The mayor of Bucha specified that the project of a modern cultural space was presented by the president of the AMO Architectural Association, Martin Duplantier.

"The proposed new building combines modern solutions for such spaces with wooden elements traditional for Vorzel. We agreed to look for funding together. We hope that the idea of such a quarter will appeal to both the residents of Vorzel and those French citizens who want to support our community in the restoration," Fedoruk said.

Since 2018, Vorzel has been part of the Bucha city community.
On Sunday, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that the US Department of Energy (DOE) had shifted its previous stand on how the COVID-19 pandemic emerged from previously being undecided to now concluding that SARS-CoV-2 most likely arose from a laboratory leak.

However, not one shred of new evidence has been offered in support of this discredited right-wing conspiracy theory. The Journal can only note that the Energy Departments conclusion, now coinciding with that of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is the result of new intelligence and is significant because the agency has considerable scientific expertise and oversees a network of US national laboratories, some of which conduct advanced biological research.

The essence of this statement is that the intelligence must be credible because the DOE says it is.

One must ask why doesnt the Journal, with all its resources and clout, not demand the federal government to make this evidence publicly available? One reason, of course, is the editorial alignment of the newspaper, part of the media empire of billionaire Rupert Murdoch, with the Republican Party. The House of Representatives, now under Republican control, has set up a new select committee to investigate (i.e., resurrect from the dead) the claim that China deliberately created the virus which causes COVID-19.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., with House Minority Whip Steve Scalise, R-La., right, promote the Wuhan Lab conspiracy theory at a press conference on Thursday, June 24, 2021. Both were leading supporters of Trump's effort to overturn the 2020 election. [AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta]

But it is more than the Republicans, since the DOE is under the direction of the Democratic administration of President Joe Biden, which is now spearheading a campaign to prepare the American population for war with China. COVID could provide yet another casus belli against Beijing, even though Biden has declared that the pandemic is over, and he has stopped thinking about it.

Bidens lying declaration does not change the fact that it has been an unprecedented catastrophe for hundreds of millions in the US, and billions around the world, and left an indelible scar on global society and mass consciousness.

In America alone, 1.12 million have died from a preventable pandemic and upwards of 16 to 20 million continue to suffer from Long COVID as a result of their infections. And even as hundreds of people continue to die from SARS-CoV-2 infections, the entire government has essentially turned out the lights on every conceivable metric that provided the population some inkling of the state of the pandemic.

And soon, with the ending of the pandemic emergency measures, millions of people will lose their government-sponsored Medicaid health insurance. This will push many health systems that are already operating in the red into outright bankruptcy.

The Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform is forecasting that more than 200 rural US hospitals may have to shutter their doors in the next couple of years, which will leave millions without access to immediate care and heighten the crisis of delivering healthcare to the remaining systems, which are seeing record numbers of emergency room visits, crippling their ability to safely triage patients.

The Journal readily concedes that US officials decline to give details on the fresh intelligence and analysis that led the Energy Department to change its position. The newspaper was only told that while the Energy Department and the FBI each say an unintended lab leak is most likely, they arrived at those conclusions for different reasons. The mystery is solved two different ways, and no details are given of either solution. Case closed!

The only sentence offered to the contrary is that according to unnamed sources who had actually read the report, the DOEs judgment, was made with low confidence. Given that Colin Powells lying indictment of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction in 2003 was made on the basis of intelligence assessments of high confidence, this could mean nothing more than something overheard in a bar, or on the podcast of fascist Stephen Bannon, one of the originators of this smear campaign.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, speaking on CNNs State of the Union program yesterday, acknowledged as much when he said, if we gain any further insight or information, we will share it with Congress and we will share it with the American people. But, right now, there is not a definitive answer that has emerged from the intelligence community on this question.

Missing in this weekend exclusive and breaking news reports is any discussion on the mountain of evidence that has evolved out of painstaking examination of the available evidence that has led foremost researchers and scientists in the field to conclude that coronavirus emerged as a zoonotic spillover in the wet-animal market in Wuhan in November 2019.

The World Socialist Web Site has written extensively on these studies and interviewed many of their authors. These findings and much further analysis of the issues raised by the COVID pandemic can be found collected in COVID, Capitalism, and Class War, Vol. 1 as well as in more recent commentaries, including here and here.

The timing of the Journals exclusive is chilling, as it is part of a barrage of national-chauvinist and anti-China propaganda efforts, from the spy balloon to the claims of Chinese near misses on US jets flying over the South China Sea, added to the standard anti-Chinese tropes about Xinjiang and Taiwan. The US ruling elite is using all of its media resources to dupe the population and enable their war plans against China to go forward.

The case in point is Sundays broadcast of Meet the Press, when host Chuck Todd, speaking with Republican Senator Dan Sullivan, asked, If we end up determining, if our intelligence community over time determines this is the majority view, and its the US governments view that this was a lab leak in China and the government covered it up, what should be the consequences?

Sullivan responds, Think about what just happened over the last three years: one of the biggest pandemics in a century. A lot of evidence that its coming from the Chinese, and when other countries even raise it, like Australia, the Chinese use their coercive economic activities to shut people up.

He then added, So, I think we need to do extensive hearings. I hope our Democratic colleagues in the Congress can support that. I know the Republicans in the House are certainly supportive of that. But I think if that happens, we need to make sure every country in the world knows this. Look, this is a country [China] that has no problem coming out and lying to the world. We just saw that with this Chinese spy balloon. Its the nature of Communist dictatorship to lie to their own people, to lie to the world  Obviously millions of deaths, huge economic impacts, and it would once again show that the Chinese Communist Party is not only a menace, but the nature of these regimes is to lie to the world. And we need to make that clear to people. Todd gave his wholehearted agreement to this malignant xenophobic perspective.

Such lies have accompanied every American war of the last 30 years and more. The countries targeted for US military violence are painted in demonic colors and blamed for every possible crime, particularly those, like the rampant spread of the coronavirus pandemic, for which the capitalist ruling class is directly responsible.
A report released Thursday by the Anti-Defamation League asserts that in 2022 every extremist mass killing in the United States was committed by right-wing extremists of various kinds. Of the at least 25 mass murders last year classified by the ADL as extremist, the organization concludes that 21 were linked directly to white supremacists.



This figure, while slightly less than the 33 documented extremist murders in 2021, is more than the 22 recorded in 2020. The ADL found that 84 percent of the killings were linked to white supremacy, 8 percent were linked to anti-government/QAnon extremism and another 8 percent to other right-wing extremism. Ninety percent of the killings in 2022 were committed with a firearm.



While right-wing extremists every year make up a vast majority of the extremist-related killings in the United States, 2022 appears to be the first year the ADL did not record any by alleged left-wing extremism. It should be noted that the ADLs incorrect definition of left-wing extremism includes Black nationalism, a political ideology that defends the nation-state and capitalist system on a racialist program.



Importantly, all of the extremist mass murders identified by the ADL in the US in 2022 were committed by fascists who either had direct connections to the Republican Party, or were inspired by anti-immigrant ideology, one of many important facts omitted in the 36-page report.



The ADL report noted that the largest mass right-wing massacre in the US last year was the grocery store shooting in Buffalo, New York in May, committed by neo-Nazi Petyon Gendron. Earlier this month the 19-year-old white supremacist was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murdering 10 people and injuring three more, all African Americans.

People hug outside the scene of the Buffalo shooting on Saturday, May 14, 2022, in Buffalo, N.Y. [AP Photo/Joshua Bessex]

In a 180-page manifesto posted online by Gendron hours before the attack, the fascist terrorist laid out his assassination plans and revealed he was an adherent of the Replacement Theory, which posits that Jews, including Holocaust survivor George Soros, are conspiring with the Democratic Party and other institutions to replace the white race in the United States with lesser races from South America, Asia and Africa.



Jews are the biggest problem the Western world has ever had, Gendron wrote, They must be called out and killed



Anti-immigrant, anti-Semitic and other fascist agitation has emerged as the dominant feature of Republican and right-wing rhetoric since Trumps 2016 campaign. An April 2022 investigation by the New York Times found that in more than 400 episodes of his program on Fox News, Tucker Carlson amplified the idea that a cabal of elites want to force demographic change. On their programs, Fox News hosts Laura Ingraham and Jeanine Pirro have likewise claimed that the Democratic Party is engaged in a plan to replace American citizens with illegals and migrants.



In reality, Biden and the Democrats have adapted virtually all of Trump and the Republicans immigration policies, including new measures aimed at preventing refugees from applying for asylum if they enter the US from Mexico.



Despite the Democrats anti-immigrant policies, nearly every week, neo-Nazis, Proud Boys or another fascist group is publicly protesting and intimidating LGBTQ persons, Jews, drag shows or alleged communists/socialists. On February 17, neo-Nazis of the Goyim Defense League (GDL) harassed and intimidated Jewish people outside the Chabad of South Orlando in Florida.



In a video posted on social media, GDL founder Jon Minadeo and his small group of Nazi followers insult Jews and threaten their extermination.



Ron DeSantis, aspiring Republican 2024 presidential nominee and Florida governor, has yet to publicly denounce any of the numerous neo-Nazi demonstrations held in Florida since he took office in 2018. The ADL noted that in 2021 Florida had the third most documented anti-Semitic demonstrations, 190, nearly double the 98 recorded in 2017.



The second largest extremist mass killing identified by the ADL was at Club Q in Colorado Springs, Colorado on November 20, the Transgender Day of Remembrance, when Anderson Lee Aldrich, the son of former California Assemblyman Randy Voepel, a supporter of former President Donald Trumps failed coup, killed five people and injured 17 at the LGBTQ nightclub.

A makeshift memorial near Club Q, a gay nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Sunday, November 20, 2022, that left at least five dead and 25 injured. [AP Photo/Geneva Heffernan]

Notably, the ADL report does not include the July 4, 2022 Highland Park Massacre committed by Trump supporter Robert Crimo III, which killed seven people and wounded 48 more. The ADL claims that while they found bigoted posts made by Crimo online, they did not uncover sufficient evidence to confirm any extremist motivation.

The WSWS has, however, published several articles detailing Crimos embrace of anti-Semitic and fascistic ideology. In addition to being a raging anti-Semite, Crimo is an avid Trump supporter, another fact omitted in the ADL report.

Online videos and multiple reports have confirmed that in 2020 Crimo attended four Trump rallies, including a December 7 Stop the Steal rally in which one local resident described seeing Crimo with his friends doing Nazi salutes and screaming statements that they refused to accept a socialist-communist America ... and wouldnt rest until the Antifa scum and Black Lives Matter monkeys get put in their place.



The central role of Trump and the Republican Party in promoting fascist terrorist violence is absent in the ADLs report. The word Republican is mentioned only once, with no link established to right-wing violence. Donald Trump, fascism, fascist, and Fox News do not appear at all in the document. The events of January 6 are mentioned in passing once, and never referred to as a right-wing coup orchestrated by Trump and his Republican allies in Congress, the police, military, intelligence agencies and the Supreme Court.



That the ADL does not draw an explicit connection between right-wing mass murders and the Republican Party is revealing. The ADL is closely linked to the Democratic Party and, like the Democrats, seeks to whitewash the ongoing transformation of one of the two main political parties in the US into a fascist political organization.
Facing the clear threat of a worsening pandemic in Brazil, driven by the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant, the Workers Party (PT) government of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has signaled its intention to declare the pandemic over and get the Brazilian population used to living with the coronavirus.

On February 16, the Health Ministry announced that it will start releasing COVID-19 data of cases, deaths and vaccination rates weekly and no longer daily, starting March 3. Trying to justify what in practice means a further departure from monitoring the pandemic in the country, the Health Ministrys director of immunization, Eder Gatti, stated that only nine of the 27 Brazilian states update the data daily, which supposedly does not allow an epidemiological analysis. Still, he claimed,We are not restricting data. ... What we want here is to facilitate the work with the data and send weekly data that is more accurate.

This claim is patently false. If the Lula government had a genuine concern about the pandemic, the least it could do is coordinate a national effort and assist the states in implementing a system to monitor the pandemic on a daily basis, with a mass testing program, genetic sequencing of the variants in circulation, among other measures completely ignored by the herd immunity policy of the former fascistic President Jair Bolsonaro.

However, almost two months after taking office, the Lula government has not reversed the Bolsonaro governments measures to prioritize corporate interests over human lives, including its ending of the National Public Health Emergency due to COVID-19 as early as April 2022. The Lula government has also failed to implement awareness campaigns about the airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the importance of wearing quality masks and distributing them for free, as well as other basic public health measures that would have an almost immediate impact and could prevent cases and deaths.

The Brazilian bourgeois media has aided the Lula government in its effort to hide the pandemic. In a move that set the stage for the Lula governments decision to begin limiting the release of COVID-19 data to a weekly basis, in late January, Brazils major dailies ended their joint daily pandemic tracking system, launched in June 2020 when the Bolsonaro government attempted to censor COVID-19 data in Brazil.

Throughout February, the news about the pandemic in Brazil and around the world virtually disappeared from the Brazilian media, especially with the approach of Carnival, which became the focus of the news in recent weeks and was deliberately seized upon by the Lula government to announce the change in the release of pandemic data in Brazil. In fact, two of the most importantBrazilian newspapers, Estado de S. Paulo and Folha de S. Paulo, did not even report this change by the Health Ministry.

Screenshot of Health Minister Nisia Trindade during her speech on February 17. [Photo: Twitter]

Later, the Lula government took a step further in its attempt to cover up the pandemic in Brazil. On February 17, Health Minister Nisia Trindade released a video saying, as if the pandemic was over, that finally, the time has come for us to celebrate the biggest popular party in our country. This statement on the eve of Carnival, when the service and tourism sectors in Brazil reap billions in profits, also expressed the Lula governments intention not to put any restrictions on the economy, even with the worsening of the pandemic.

The Brazilian Carnival threatens to become a new superspreader event for the coronavirus and drive another wave in Brazil. This situation may be further aggravated by the spread of the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant, which is more transmissible and more vaccine-resistant. It was first detected in Sao Paulo in early January, and a month later XBB.1.5 was responsible for 80 percent of the cases in the state.

Parroting the anti-scientific claim advanced by the worlds capitalist elite that vaccination alone is enough to control a disease as infectious as COVID-19, Trindade also said in the video, our great ally [right now] is vaccination. The more people with full vaccination, the more we will be protected in the face of the severe forms of the disease.

Although vaccines protect against severe COVID-19, they do not prevent people from getting infected and suffering all its effects, particularly Long COVID. Considering this, the Lula governments health minister is saying to the population that it can ignore all the other tools that science has used for decades to fight infectious diseases, such as social distancing and the use of masks, and take the risk of getting infected and suffering all the consequences.

This, in fact, has been put in place since the PTs election victory, with the habit of Trindade and government officialsincluding Lula himself, who is 77 years old and has already tested positive for COVID-19of attending closed and crowded events without wearing masks. After the wearing of masks, as well as the tracking of the pandemic, were relentlessly targeted by the herd immunity policy of Bolsonaro governmentpolicies which the PT supposedly foughtthis bad example leaves society totally unprepared for the risk of a new outbreak, which now threatens Brazil.

Since the beginning of February, there has been a reversal in the drop of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Brazil after a wave driven by the Omicron BQ.1 subvariant last year. On February 22, Isaac Schrarstzhaupt, the coordinator of the COVID-19 Network, one of the few initiatives still tracking the pandemic in Brazil, confirmed this trend, drawing particular attention to the increase in the occupancy of nursing beds in Sao Paulo from 750 on February 7 to 1,050 on February 21. Nationally, only the Southern region is not registering a worsening of the pandemic. In the Northern region, the state of Amazonas registered a 546 percent increase in hospitalizations and a 1,200 percent increase in cases in the first 15 days of February.

Data from the last few days further confirms this trend. After the failure to release COVID-19 data between February 18 and 21, due to Carnival, on Wednesday, Brazil registered 453 deaths and 11,616 cases, while on Thursday 334 deaths and 9,646 cases were recorded. Due to massive under-reporting, the average number of cases between February 11 and 17 decreased from 8,192 to 3,544 between February 18 and 23, while the average number of deaths increased from 55 to 131 in the same period.

In contrast to the position of the Lula governments health minister, leading neuroscientist Miguel Nicolelis has issued a series of warnings on Twitter in recent days. The pandemic has been totally removed from the agenda and political speeches, he wrote last Thursday. Two days before the beginning of Carnival, which promises to have the largest crowds in decades, there is no official communication from the MH [Ministry of Health] to alert the population about the spread of new Omicron variants! No strategy to break transmission, other than vaccines, announced.

On Monday, Nicolelis added: The MH [Ministry of Health] should not join the negligence and lack of health responsibility of states that fail to publish daily COVID-19 data. It should instead determine that this data be made available daily. This conduct is shameful and extremely disappointing.

Although Bolsonaro represents the most vicious expression of herd immunity, recent events expose the PTs embrace of this homicidal policy. This, however, had already been made clear in previous waves of the pandemic in Brazil. In the second deadly wave, in 2021, Nicolelis, himself a longtime PT supporter, left the scientific committee of the Northeastern states in the face of inaction by the regions governors, including four of them from the PT.

Then, during the peak of the Omicron BA.1 subvariant wave early last year, Nicolelis again denounced the PTs policy, saying in an interview with the WSWS: the PT governors, who I know very well because I worked with them, stopped doing what had to be done a long time ago. So, who are the progressives in this story? I have seen conduct by so-called progressive people that was very similar to Bolsonaros. They just had the varnish and the stamp of progressives. The same thing could now be said of the Lula government.

This development confirms the warnings of the Rank-And-File Committee for Safe Education in Brazil (CBES-BR) that the Lula government would follow the example of other capitalist leaders who, with each wave of the pandemic, withdrew the mitigation measures still in place. This, in turn, has allowed its wide circulation and the emergence of a subvariant such as XBB1.5, which has spurred a deadly wave in the US recently and now threatens Brazil.

If this process is not stopped through the global elimination of COVID-19, it could repeat itself indefinitely, with devastating consequences for the Brazilian and world populations. Therefore, the CBES-BR, which is part of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-And-File Committees (IWA-RFC), calls on teachers and the entire Brazilian working class to fight for this policy in alliance with workers all over the world and finally put an end once and for all to all the suffering caused by the pandemic.
In a feature article published last Thursday, the well-known German weekly magazine Der Spiegel pointedly asked whether the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) was hunting associates and supporters of Julian Assange.

British police stand guard as WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, center, address media and supporters from a window of the Ecuadorian Embassy in central London, Aug. 19, 2012. [AP Photo]

The persecuted WikiLeaks publisher remains in Britains maximum-security Belmarsh Prison while the UK authorities seek to facilitate his extradition to the US. There, Assange faces 175 years imprisonment for exposing the war crimes committed by American imperialism and its allies in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

Over recent years, a wealth of material has been published laying bare the scope of the US campaign against Assange and its gross illegality. In October 2021, Yahoo! News issued an article, based on the statements of 30 former and current US officials. It asserted that the CIA and the Trump administration had plotted to kidnap or assassinate Assange while he was an internationally-recognised political refugee in Ecuadors London embassy.

There are well-documented allegations that UC Global, the security company contracted by the Ecuadorian authorities to provide security to the embassy, was secretly collaborating with the US authorities. UC Global whistleblowers have attested to this, and the unlawful surveillance material, including videos of Assanges privileged discussions with his lawyers, has been publicly released.

The Der Spiegel article provides additional information. It paints a picture of a global dragnet established by the US government and its agencies to target not only Assange, but also his collaborators. Much of the material is anecdotal, but the standing of those providing it, together with the context of established US state operations against WikiLeaks, makes for a persuasive case.

Summarising the material it collected, Der Spiegel writes: At one point, a lawyer in London lost her laptop; at another, a journalist researching Assanges case had medical data stolen. The office of Assanges Spanish defence lawyers was broken into in a bizarre way. In Ecuador, a Swedish software developer has been held in the country for nearly four years on flimsy grounds. Elsewhere, Assange supporters who prefer to remain anonymous reported similar spooky incidents.

That they are connected cannot be proven. Nor has it been possible to determine the authors beyond doubt in any case so far. It could be a matter of coincidences. But who is to believe that? asks Assanges lawyer Aitor Martinez, who is certain that it is a concerted campaign by U.S. authorities, whose often dubious methods WikiLeaks has exposed quite a few times. Its a vendetta against Julian Assange, says the Spaniard. And the focus is not only on companions and family members of Assange, but also on lawyers and journalists, who by law should be particularly protected from wiretapping.

Several case studies are provided.

One concerns Andy Muller-Maguhn, a German collaborator of Assange and a computer expert. In addition to having met frequently with Assange in the Ecuadorian embassy, Muller-Maguhn plays a pivotal role in WikiLeaks operations by managing funds for the organisation donated through the German Wau Holland Foundation.

The Der Spiegel report recounts that Muller-Maguhn discovered in March 2018 a high-powered spying device in a Southeast Asian apartment where he sometimes resides. The small surveillance implant had been expertly soldered into one of Muller-Maguhns secure mobile phones. Der Spiegel commented: It is equipped with U.S. made chips and cannot be detected with a normal frequency locator.

Other incidents followed, with Muller-Maguhn describing the situation as the edge of surreality. In one instance, in June 2019, he was waiting for his wife in Milan when he spotted an unkempt guy across the street pointing a telephoto lens at him through a plastic bag. When he sees me looking at him, he takes off.

In another, his telephone provider revealed that one of Muller-Maguhns crypto phones was using an unusually high amount of data. It was one, however, that he almost never used. On inspection, it was clear that the phone had been connecting to unfamiliar IP addresses. There were also signs that his mail had been tampered with.

In the most sinister incident, the article relates that Muller-Maguhn had left his Berlin apartment to go shopping; when he returns, there is an object stuck in his door lock that can no longer be opened. The police suspect an attempted burglary. Its Nov. 3, 2020, the day of the U.S. presidential election. Funny coincidence, says Muller-Maguhn.

The German citizen has filed a legal case against the spying in the German federal courts. His account is lent substantial credence by the fact that the US government has openly admitted to targeting him.

The US Federal Bureau of Investigations named Muller-Maguhn as a potential WikiLeaks courier in the 2016 Mueller report. The document provides no evidence for this, other than Muller-Maguhns visits to the Ecuadorian embassy, just as it did not substantiate its broader, baseless charges that WikiLeaks 2016 publications were part of a Russian interference campaign in that years American election. Leaked material has also shown that UC Global took a particular interest in Muller-Maguhn while it was allegedly collaborating with the CIA.

Lawyer targeted

Aitor Martinez, one of Assanges Spanish lawyers, also appears to have been targeted. Der Spiegel pointedly notes: For him, too, the series of oddities apparently began in the spring of 2017, when CIA chief Pompeo declared WikiLeaks an enemy intelligence agency.

Pompeo made that declaration in response to WikiLeaks publication of Vault 7, a trove of CIA documents proving that the agency was running a global hacking operation aimed at gaining access to smartphones, televisions and even electric vehicles. The agency was also developing technologies to falsely ascribe its own illegal actions to other nations, such as Russia and Iran. The clear implication of Pompeos assertion was that WikiLeaks would be treated as an enemy state or a terrorist organisation.

Der Spiegel reports that in the wake of Pompeos speech: Martinez and his wife were in Paraguay on business at the time. On a street in Asuncion, he said, a stranger grabbed his wifes arm and whispered to her in English, Watch your cell phone! At the hotel, 230 screenshots of private emails, text messages and pictures suddenly popped up on her cell phone, allegedly sent from Martinezs phone, which he said he hadnt even touched. Then, when we left in a hurry, a man with a plug in his ear followed us at the airport, waving a friendly goodbye.

In the most serious attack, masked men broke into Martinezs Spanish legal office on the night of December 16, 2017. They appeared to be looking for something, which the lawyer suspects was a computer server that they did not find.

The timing suggests coordination with UC Global, along with the US authorities. In the days prior to the break-in, Assange had been involved in detailed discussions with Ecuadorian officials on a plan for him to flee the embassy and seek asylum in a third state. The meetings were allegedly surveilled by UC Global and transmitted to US agencies. Days after the break-in, the US government issued an international arrest warrant for Assange on December 21, clearly aimed at scuttling the plans for his liberty.

That warrant was issued by the US Justice Department. If the break-in was connected to the activities of the US government, as seems almost certain, it would have been overseen by the CIA or its proxy. In other words, the Justice Department, which is now overseeing Assanges attempted extradition, was potentially tag-teaming with spying agencies in criminal operations such as attempted burglaries.

Significantly, Martinez stated that his apartment was broken into last year, but nothing was stolen. That would suggest that this gangster campaign against Assanges associates continues, despite his imprisonment and the extradition proceedings.

Another individual whose story is recounted by Der Spiegel is Ola Bini, a Swedish computer expert. He was arrested in Ecuador, where he was working, almost simultaneously with the Ecuadorian governments expulsion of Assange from its London embassy on April 11, 2019. Bini, who says he has never worked for WikiLeaks, but did meet with Assange at the embassy, was accused of hacking into Ecuadorian government communications and attempting to destabilise its government.

Ola Bini [Photo: Twitter]

Bini has been subjected to a years-long legal ordeal. While an Ecuadorian court acquitted him in January, prosecutors have filed an appeal, so he cannot leave the country.

Der Spiegel recounted some of his experiences with surveillance: Ola Bini says he often saw these men in the park while jogging, dressed like normal walkers but with well-toned bodies and walkie-talkies. He says there was often a police car parked outside his front door; once he photographed a car with an antenna sticking out of the back window, pointed at his apartment.

I dont know what my opponents are capable of, Bini says as he rides his bicycle to a cafe in Quito one Sunday morning to talk. Bodyguards accompany him; they had been provided for him by a human rights organization. Ola Bini is probably one of the best-monitored people in Ecuador. Three or four security services are on his heels, says the 40-year-old. Yet even without the constant surveillance, he would have little chance of escaping: Every Friday, he has to report to the public prosecutors office and is not allowed to leave the country. This situation is destroying me psychologically, he says.

Reports since 2019 have indicated that the Ecuadorian campaign against Bini has been coordinated with US officials.

The spying and dirty tricks perpetrated against WikiLeaks associates, including lawyers, underscores the fact that the persecution of Assange is the spearhead of a broader assault on democratic rights, with global implications.

This campaign is inextricably tied to war. Assange is being persecuted for exposing war crimes, under conditions where the US and its allies are preparing even greater horrors through their proxy war against Russia in Ukraine and their confrontation with China. As in the 20th century, war is incompatible with fundamental civil liberties, which governments erode in a bid to suppress widespread opposition to militarism among workers and young people.

The lawless campaign against WikiLeaks is yet another exposure of the fraud of Washingtons claims to be defending democracy and human rights in Ukraine or anywhere else. What emerges is an imperialist regime that will use all methods, including criminal, to stamp out opposition to its illegal wars and interventions.

The full Der Spiegel article can be read in German here. Investigative journalist Tareq Haddad has provided an English translation here.

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Three years after the UK left the European Union (EU), the Conservative government has sealed an agreement with the bloc over the vexed issue of the post-Brexit trading rules in Northern Ireland.

The Windsor framework deal was secured Monday, after hundreds of hours of negotiations, and announced in a joint press conference by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomes the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen to Windsor to discuss the Northern Ireland talks. [Photo by Simon Walker/No 10 Downing Street/Flickr / CC BY 2.0

The deal amends the Northern Ireland protocol, which formed a crucial part of the Brexit deal former prime minister Boris Johnson signed with the EU in 2019. Painting the deal as all things to all people, Sunak declared, Todays agreement delivers smooth-flowing trade within the whole United Kingdom, protects Northern Irelands place in our union and safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

Under the agreement, two new routes for goods will be introduced when they are travelling from Britains mainland into Northern Ireland. Goods passing through Northern Ireland destined for the Republic of Irelandan EU membermust go via a red lane, ensuring they pass all customs checks they need to before crossing the Irish Sea. In a clause Sunak said would end burdensome customs bureaucracy, products set to stay in Northern Irelandand therefore in the UKwill go via a green lane.

In a bid to win the support of the hardline Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Sunak and the EU have agreed to give members of the Northern Ireland Assembly a say on any changes to EU law by offering them the Stormont brake. This will allow the UK, at the request of 30 members from at least two parties in the Northern Ireland legislative assembly, to oppose updates to new EU goods law in exceptional circumstances.

The deal Johnson put in place contained compromise arrangements to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland, to allow trade flows from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland. Preventing such a hard border was necessary to satisfy the provisions of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which ended three decades of armed conflict between the Irish Republican Army and its political arm Sinn Fein, and the British state forces and their Unionist and loyalist allies.

The Northern Ireland protocol was opposed from the outset by the DUP. Replacing the external EU customs checks on trade from the North/South border to ports in Northern Ireland and the UK, the protocol resulted in significant problems and higher costs for business. By last year checks on goods from the UK at Northern Irish ports represented 20 percent of all checks at the EUs borders.

The DUPs opposition to the protocol was essential to its rejection of power sharing, over a year ago, with Sinn Fein in the devolved Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive. The DUP demanded the protocol be dropped before either institution could reopen and power-sharing resume.

The DUP set up seven tests under which any deal the UK government reached with the EU would be judged. These include cutting border red tape and giving the Stormont Assembly a veto over rules that apply in the region. The most frothing unionists will not sign up to any UK/EU deal. While not being in its tests, the DUP stressed as a London/Brussels deal edged closer that there is an end to the primacy of EU laws or no role at all for the European Court of Justice in Northern Ireland. On Sunday, the Daily Mail reported that DUP Chief Whip Sammy Wilson had told its reporters that there should be no EU law applying to this part of the UK.

The agreement also faces opposition from the Tories substantial hardline pro-Brexit European Research Group (ERG), with a rebellion by up to 100 of the ERG and other Tories being mooted as a possibility only a few days ago if the deal is put to a vote of MPs in Parliament.

Sunak is seeking to ensure that a rebellion is kept down to between 20 or 30 of his backbenchers. He is counting on a DUP majority supporting the deal, convincing most of the euro-sceptic wing of his own party to fall into line. Their mood was summed up by former Tory minister Sir Edward Leigh who told Sunak after the deal was announced, I can assure him, many of his colleagues on these benches are watching the DUP very carefully, and we will go where they go It all depends on our colleagues in the DUP. Because unless this exercise gets Stormont up and running, its pretty futile, indeed it might be downright dangerous.

Sunaks deal has the backing of some leading Brexiteers. As the Financial Times noted, Steve Baker, Northern Ireland minister and self-described hard man of Brexit, scotched rumours he might quit, calling the pact a really great deal. David Davis, former Brexit secretary, also backed the agreement.

A main player behind the scenes is the United States, which has crucial economic and political interests in ensuring a deal and stability on the island of Ireland. The US has long insisted that nothing must imperil the Good Friday Agreement it played a major role in securing, alongside the Blair Labour government, in 1998. As well as the Republic of Ireland, due to its status as a low tax haven, being a vital European hub for some of the largest US corporations; the Irish American lobby is a significant force in the ruling Democratic Party in the US.

Sunak also faces opposition from his predecessor Johnson, who is operating a campaign to undermine and hopefully replace Sunak as Tory leader. The Guardian noted Monday, Although most Conservative MPs warmly welcomed the breakthrough after two years of negotiations, Johnson stayed away from the House of Commons chamber and is said not to have made up his mind about whether to endorse or oppose the Windsor framework.

For weeks Johnson has publicly demanded that Sunak pass his stalled Northern Ireland Protocol Billgiving the UK the right to unilaterally suspend aspects of the protocol in an emergencywhich was drafted when Johnson was in office, in order to extract more concessions from the EU. However, the Sunday Times reported, Privately, Johnson was more robust in an extraordinary confrontation in the Commons chamber with his former lord chancellor, Sir Robert Buckland, who lobbied Johnson to back the deal, arguing that it was necessary to cement relations with President Joe Biden. In a move that startled MPs, Johnson was overheard replying: F*** the Americans!.

No vote is being held on the deal in Parliament this week, to allow the DUPs 12 party officers to study the legal text and the Torys ERG to scrutinise it with the assistance of a star chamber of lawyers it is assembling. Sunak announced that MPs would have a vote at the appropriate time. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson gave a guarded response, saying that while significant progress had been made, EU rules would still apply in Northern Ireland. He asked, The key issue is why is EU law being applied and what is the purpose of that?

It is highly likely that a vote in Parliament would pass the deal, as it has the backing of the main opposition Labour Party (with 196 MPs) in the 650-seat legislature. Speaking in Belfast last month, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said, I say to the Prime Minister, if there is a deal to do in coming weeks, do it. Whatever political cover you need, whatever mechanisms in Westminster you require, if it delivers for our national interest and the people of Northern Ireland, we will support you. The time for action on the protocol is now. The time to stand up to the ERG is now.

Starmer was a former leading Remain in the EU supporter, but has determined to accept Brexitnot least because he fears reopening divisions would politically destabilise the UK and prevent Labour taking office by again losing a substantial number of Brexit voting constituencies in the north of England.
Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) Karim Khan, whose team has been collecting evidence of Russia's war crimes in Ukraine, says there are all grounds for conducting a proper investigation and securing justice in the ICC for genocide and the crimes against humanity.

"Ukraine was injured, this is part of its history The UN Charter speaks of the need for peaceful settlement of conflicts, but the main thing is to use the jurisdiction we have. This is important. We have jurisdiction on genocide, on crimes against humanity," he said on the air of the national telethon on Monday.

Asked what he could say to Ukrainians who anticipate seeing Russian President Vladimir Putin on trial for the crimes committed in Ukraine, the ICC prosecutor said, "Any legal system works in a way that it starts with collecting evidence of committed crimes Patience is needed to provide judges and a court with materials. We have to collect the truth, the facts. Not a single person  neither a military commander nor a civilian  nobody has the right to aim weapons at children, hospitals, and the civilian infrastructure. We need to collect evidence and submit them to court."

Khan also said that his team closely cooperates with the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine and its representatives have been constantly present in Ukraine since May 2022.

"That is the truth  to investigate and bring charges. An equal attitude towards all criminals is also important. I have said this a year ago and I am saying it now  we have reasonable grounds to believe that the committed crimes will be investigated and justice will be secured by the International Criminal Court," he said.
As part of the Humanitarian Appeal for Ukraine, 52 million Canadian dollars (CAD) were collected from 72,000 donors, the press service of the Canadian-Ukrainian Foundation (CUF) has reported.

The Humanitarian Appeal for Ukraine is a joint project of the Canadian-Ukrainian Foundation (CUF) and The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC). For more than a year, both organizations have been working together to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of assistance provided by Canadian citizens to Ukrainians affected by the war.

On the eve of the anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada Yulia Kovaliv, together with Chairman of the Council of the Canadian-Ukrainian Foundation (CUF) Viktor Hetmanchuk and President of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Oleksandra Khychiy, reported on the collection of funds for humanitarian aid and its use from February 24, 2022.

Kovaliv thanked for the support on behalf of all Ukrainians.

The release reports that on February 24, 2022, more than $52 million was raised from 72,000 donors as part of the Humanitarian Appeal.

"The generosity of Canadians allowed us to provide critical assistance to hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians. Unfortunately, the war has no signs of stopping. We need constant and unwavering support in our mission to help our brothers and sisters in Ukraine," the press service quoted Viktor Hetmanchuk, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the CUF, as saying.

It is reported that since February 2022, 300,000 food packages have been delivered to Ukraine as part of the Humanitarian Appeal, which provided food for 850,000 people in Ukraine, Moldova and Romania. Fifty-three tonnes of medicines were sent to more than 790,000 patients.

"The Ukrainian-Canadian community works continuously to support our brothers and sisters in Ukraine in their heroic defense of their homeland from the genocidal aggressive war by Russia. Our community is infinitely grateful to all Canadians for their unwavering, generous support of the Ukrainian people in a difficult time for them," said President of the UCC Khychiy.

To solve the problem of energy certainty, 161 generators were transferred for hospitals, families of deceased servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and in support of the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, 2,000 furnaces for cooking and heating in the recently liberated territories. Also, 2,000 beds, mattresses, blankets, pillows, bed linen for displaced persons were transferred; 1,000 pallets of detergents for displaced persons; 1,000 sets of fire-fighting equipment, 10,000 special gloves for rescuers; and 330 pallets of personal protective equipment for hospitals

Some $1.2 million has been transferred for psychological assistance services to the civilian population. Two missions of plastic surgeons were carried out, who operated on 44 victims with severe facial injuries, a total of 106 operations. Three humanitarian demining missions have been carried out.

Twenty vacuum suturing devices (VAC) for the treatment of wound infections in hospitals in Western Ukraine, as well as consumables, 11 Toyota ambulances for the Ministry of Health of Ukraine were transferred.

The Canadian-Ukrainian Foundation (CUF) has been providing humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians since 1995.
Feature: Banana farming cooperative helps Filipino villagers out of poverty

Xinhua) 13:42, February 27, 2023

MANILA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Camelo Daguidor and his wife Lourdes, a couple from Malamba village on the outskirt of Davao in the southern Philippines, tends to about 1,000 banana trees, making banana farming a livelihood of the family.

Davao, located in the Mindanao region, is the third largest city of the country. It is rich in tropical fruits such as bananas, durians, and mangoes. The fruit-growing industry is one of the mainstays of the local economy.

Daguidor, 66, decided to quit his job last year as a security guard in a nearby town, and shifted to growing bananas after enlisting in a cooperative hatched by China and the Philippines that aimed to alleviate villagers in remote areas from poverty.

The project is initiated and supported by the Chinese embassy in cooperation with the government of Davao and third-party merchants.

The cooperative provides banana saplings, fertilizers, pesticides, and instruction from agricultural technicians, all of which are free of charge. After the harvest, the third-party merchants will purchase the bananas at a favorable price and process them into banana chips targeting at Chinese consumers.

Daguidor is among those who first joined the cooperative. He planted 1,000 banana saplings in March last year, and the fruits are expected to be harvested in this August.

Based on the calculation of harvesting 20 kilograms of bananas per tree, the harvest will bring nearly 200,000 pesos (nearly 3,700 U.S. dollars) to the Daguidor family, more than double their annual income as a security guard.

Daguidor now walks around the banana grove almost every day to check the growth of the saplings. Whenever there is a problem, he will first call Joana Flores, an agricultural technician assigned to Malamba village by the agriculture department of Davao city.

As a technical partner of this cooperative, Flores provides guidance for 15 banana growing families in the village. She said in jest that her mobile phone number has become a "hotline" for those growers. "You can expect a call from them at any moment."

Under the daily care of the growers, the banana trees in Malamba village are now bearing fruits, and a good harvest can be expected if all goes well, said Flores, adding many other villagers have expressed their willingness to join the project.

"More farmers got interested in joining the project when the other farmers saw the project's initial results," Flores said. "To get benefits, banana growers only need to contribute their labor with no risks involved."

The Philippines is the world's major exporter of bananas. As a connecting point of the hard-working local growers and the booming market, this tropical fruit witnesses the poverty relief story of China-Philippines cooperation benefiting people's livelihood.

What's even more exciting is that the local government has approved a budget to rebuild the mountain road leading to Malamba village to make transporting bananas easier.

"When I told the villagers about the plan to build a new farm-to-market road, they jumped in joy," said Flores. "They are all grateful to the project as bananas have changed their lives."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The Russian occupation forces launched eight missile and 28 air strikes, including 12 by Iranian-made Shahed-136 kamikaze drones, against Ukraine in the past 24 hours, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) has said on Monday.

The enemy "mounted more than 55 shelling attacks using multiple launch rocket systems" in the past 24 hours, it said on Facebook.

The enemy is focused on the offensive operations in Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Shakhtarsk directions. It has been increasing the number of personnel there.

According to the General Staff, up to 200 conscripts have been transferred from Rostov region to the temporarily occupied territory of Luhansk region.

The threat of missile attacks remains high all over the territory of Ukraine.

In Volyn, Polissia, Siversky, and Slobozhansky directions, the situation did not change. No offensive enemy groups were detected. In the borderline districts of Bryansk and Kursk regions, the enemy equips engineering facilities, including anti-tank ditches.
Alabama was listed as a finalist to land 2025 tight end Davon Mitchell. Mitchell released his top-11 on Friday via Twitter.

Mitchell plays for Los Alamitos High School in Los Alamitos, California. He is rated as the No. 1 tight end in the nation in the 2025 recruiting class.

He previously played for Allen High School which is one of the more prominent high schools in the country.

When asked by On3s Chad Simmons on why he listed Alabama as a finalist, here is what he had to say:

Alabamas like home. Thats where Im from. I always grew up watching them and I know that they use their tight ends good. Their tight ends had a good season too. I went to watch them at the Iron Bowl, so I was impressed with what I saw.

Roll Tide Wire breaks down Davon Mitchells recruiting profile.

Rankings

Stars Overall State Position 247 4 29 2 1 Rivals 3    ESPN 4  4 28 On3 Recruiting 4 91 1 11 247 Composite 5 26 4 1

Vitals

Hometown Los Alamitos, California Projected Position Tight end Height 6-4 Weight 245 Class 2024

Recruiting

Landed an offer from Alabama on June 25, 2022

Took an unofficial visit to Alabama on June 25, 2022

Top schools

Twitter

Story originally appeared on Roll Tide Wire
A winter storm that caused one California National Weather Service branch to issue its first ever blizzard warning is expected to drop up to half a foot of snow on parts of New Hampshire and Maine Tuesday.

A workman spreads salt on the grounds of the Portsmouth Sheraton Feb. 27, 2023 before the next expected storm arrives later in the evening.

A forecaster with the National Weather Services Gray, Maine office noted that towns and cities in the neighboring states could see three to six inches of fresh snow blanket the region, adding to recent accumulations.

Meteorologist Jon Palmer said the weather service anticipates snow to hit the Seacoast, Strafford County and southern Maine between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. on Tuesday and continue throughout the day and into early Wednesday morning.

The National Weather Service in Gray, Maine is projecting the Seacoast, Strafford County and southern Maine could receive between three to six inches of snow in a storm slated to last all day Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023.

Immediate coastal communities could see rainfall mixed in with snow later Tuesday night, while wind gusts throughout the region are not expected to exceed 25 miles per hour.

Areas like Kittery, Portsmouth and maybe even up to Portland could see a very brief changeover to rain and snow toward the end of Tuesday, Palmer said.

A man tries to clean up hardened snow in a driveway in Dover before the next predicted snow arrives in the evening of Feb. 27, 2023.

The coast to coast system first entered California last week, Palmer said, leading to snowfall in the southern part of the state and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The National Weather Services office in San Diego issued a blizzard warning for the first time in its history, he added.

The storm continued its path east with snowfall in Utah and Colorado, then combined with Gulf Stream moisture to create severe weather in the Southern Plains and multiple tornadoes in Oklahoma.

As of Tuesday morning, the storm was located over southern Iowa.

Were going to stay on the cold side of this storm. Its moving to the northeast but it's going to transition and skate off to the east, Palmer said. This storm will come across the Great Lakes, fizzle out and kind of reform in the Atlantic coast and southern New England. Thats whats going to bring us the snow.

Unitil Corporation urged its customers to prepare for the impending storm, calling on them to ensure they have flashlights and batteries, portable chargers, a first aid kit, bottled water and food at the ready.

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The electricity supplier warned of potential poor driving conditions and possible power outages.

We saw a number of outages caused by motor vehicle accidents throughout the weekend as snow fell off and on and created slick roads, Unitil spokesperson Alec OMeara said. With additional snowstorms in the forecast throughout the week, we urge drivers to take their time and remain safe while getting to their destination.

Two other storms could strike the Seacoast, Strafford County and southern Maine region later this week, Palmer reported. The first one being tracked is slated to occur Thursday, though forecasts show the Seacoast could receive mostly rain, while a subsequent system could bring snow from Friday night into Saturday, though snowfall amounts have not yet been predicted.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Up to 6 inches of snow to hit Seacoast Tuesday; 2 more storms to follow
LAS VEGAS  Augusto Sakai can breathe a little easier now.

The UFC heavyweight picked up a much-needed win Saturday when he outpointed DonTale Mayes (9-4 MMA, 2-2 UFC) for a unanimous decision on the main card of UFC Fight Night 220. Sakai (15-5-1 MMA, 4-4 UFC) entered the event on a four-fight losing skid and winless since 2020.

It was a tough spot for Sakai, but hes now starting to put that skid behind him.

Im so happy. Its been such a hard time in my life these past couple of years, Sakai said at the UFC Fight Night 220 post-fight press conference. I started here in the (Dana Whites) Contender Series in 2018. Its been highs and lows. Im here for redemption. Im here to write another history in the UFC.

Related

UFC Fight Night 220 post-event facts: Nurullo Aliev makes history for Tajikistan

Often, a four-fight skid can mean the end of a fighters career in the UFC. Sakai told the media he felt no pressure leading up to the event, but that was all a facade. The Brazilian did have doubts entering UFC FightNight 220.

Every time those thoughts came into my mind, anytime anything negative came into my mind, I would flip the switch and thought of something else, Sakai said. I just thought, I want to come here. I want to do my best. I want to prove that my training and everything that Im doing is working. I want to prove my worth in this organization.

Every time that thing came, that aspect, I switched it and thought positive things and worked out all right.

For more on the card, visit MMA Junkies event hub for UFC Fight Night 220.

More UFC!

Augusto Sakai relieved to snap four-fight skid: 'It's been such a hard time in my life' Mick Maynard's Shoes: What's next for Brendan Allen after UFC Fight Night 220 win? Dana White: Tatiana Suarez resolidified herself as 'one of the best in the world' at UFC Fight Night 220

Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie
President Joe Biden in an interview that aired Sunday expressed skepticism about a Russia-Ukraine peace plan that China has floated.

"I've seen nothing in the plan that would indicate that there is something that would be beneficial to anyone other than Russia if the Chinese plan were followed," Biden told David Muir on ABC's "This Week."



Muir noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin had responded positively to the Chinese proposal.

"Putin is applauding it, so how could it be any good? I'm not being facetious," he said. "I'm being deadly earnest."

Biden added: "The idea that China is going to be negotiating the outcome of a war that's a totally unjust war for Ukraine is just not rational."

Despite America's skepticism toward the proposal, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautiously welcomed Beijings efforts Friday and said he would like to meet with President Xi Jinping to discuss Chinas proposals. As far as I know, China respects historical integrity, he told reporters in Kyiv.

Speaking to Muir, Biden also made it clear that the United States would be extremely displeased if China offered military aid to to Russia in its fight against Ukraine in the year-old war.

"We would respond," Biden said. He also noted that hundreds of American companies had left Russia after its invasion of Ukraine "without any government prodding" and that China might face the same consequences.
Following warnings from the Biden administration that China is weighing whether to provide Russia with lethal aid for their war in Ukraine, the White House's national security adviser said Sunday that "at this point" they have "not seen them take the step of providing weapons" to Moscow.

"We are watching closely," Jake Sullivan told ABC "This Week" co-anchor Martha Raddatz. "We know they haven't taken it off the table. And we are sending a clear message, as are our European allies, that this would be a real mistake because those weapons would be used to bombard cities and kill civilians, and China should want no part of that."

Sullivan said it was difficult to say whether China is "backing on, backing off" of the decision but that "what I can say is so far, we have not seen them do it."

Chinese officials have defended their relationship with Russia as "built on the basis of non-alliance, non-confrontation and non-targeting of third countries."

But President Joe Biden told ABC's David Muir in an interview last week that the U.S. stood ready to respond if Beijing moved forward with sending weapons.

PHOTO: Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, and Russian President Vladimir Putin pose for a photo prior to their talks in Beijing, Feb. 4, 2022. (Alexei Druzhinin/Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, FILE)

Biden has ruled out giving Ukraine F-16 fighter jets "for now," despite repeated requests from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sullivan said on "This Week." He called it a "question for later."

Sullivan said that the U.S. government's focus right now is to help Ukrainians "retake territory on the ground" in its southern and eastern territories.

Asked if it's possible the U.S. provides F-16s in the future, Sullivan reiterated that that the White House has been prioritizing the immediate needs of this war and will continue to do so.

"Every phase of this war, the president has tried to make sure that the Ukrainian military gets what they need. In the first phase, as they were defending Kyiv, that was Javelin anti-tank weapons and Stinger anti-air systems. And that worked. It helped Ukraine defend Kyiv. In the second phase, it was heavy artillery to help them hold against the Russians pushing in eastern Ukraine. In this phase, the critical element is ground maneuver capability. And that means tanks, armored personnel carriers, infantry fighting vehicles," Sullivan said. "And so what the president is saying is he's focused on those capabilities."

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Pressed further by Raddatz on the possibility the U.S. could eventually approve fighter jets -- a move endorsed not just by Zelenskyy but some leading lawmakers like House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul -- Sullivan told her, "We will cross the bridge of future phases of this war when they come."

Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Raddatz a week ago, on "This Week," that one reason Biden is not supplying Ukraine with F-16s is because of the required training and maintenance.

"So why not teach them now? So if they need them, if you want to approve it in the future, they'll have them ready to go," Raddatz said to Sullivan.

"From our perspective, the most important thing that we can do is make sure that we maintain focus on what is the highest priority and honestly, Martha, the highest priority right now is to move as rapidly as possible to build up their capacity to de-occupy those portions of Ukraine that are still being occupied brutally and bloodily by Russian forces," he said. "We expect that that will be the central focus of the Ukrainians as well as of our support for the Ukrainians in the weeks and months ahead."

PHOTO: In this Dec. 12, 2022, file photo, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan speaks during the daily briefing at the White House in Washington, D.C. (Susan Walsh/AP, FILE)

In January, Biden approved 31 Abrams tanks to be sent to Ukraine, but last week the Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth said those vehicles may not even get to the country this year.

"How is that helpful if you don't approve them in time and get the speed to get things like that over there?" Raddatz asked on "This Week."

Sullivan defended the decision, saying the release of Abrams tanks was done in coordination with Germany as a precondition so they would send German-made Leopard tanks to the battlefield, which will arrive much more quickly.

He said this was "an example of Joe Biden rallying the global coalition to get Ukraine what it needs."

"The president said, 'OK, I'm going to be the leader of the free world, I will send Abrams down the road if you send Leopards now.'"

Separately, following the shoot-down of a suspected Chinese spy balloon over U.S. airspace and three unidentified flying objects over North America, there have been no other instances of the military downing any possible threats.

Raddatz asked if this was because radar has been recalculated once again, but Sullivan said the NORAD Commander "has not recalibrated our radar."

"We continue to be vigilant for unidentified objects coming into U.S. territory," he said. "What we did do at President Biden's direction, Martha, is put in place a set of policy parameters for when we would take lethal action against an object, to shoot it down, as opposed to deal with it in other ways."

A "leading explanation" for the three additional objects is that they were commercial or civilian balloons, government officials have said.

China hasn't yet provided weapons to Russia in Ukraine, but doing so would be 'real mistake': Sullivan originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution reads as follows: A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a Free State, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.

When I taught government, my students would ask questions as to the purpose and meaning of amendments, particularly the Second Amendment. My response to this question was, Our founders were painfully aware, because of their experiences with England, of a federal governments potentially abusive power, and they were committed to the preservation of the power of the states. Our founders had, as a primary concern that specific protection. The Second Amendment was meant to be a collective-rights states protection, not an individual right to bear arms.

In 2009, to the shock of many Americans, the Supreme Court in District of Columbia v. Heller declared that the intent of the Second Amendment was not to protect the states, but rather to empower individuals to bear arms and if that were not enough, in 2022, the court in New York State Rifle and Pistol Assoc. v. Bruen fashioned the ultimate blow by declared that citizens could carry guns in public settings without registration. The court literally moved the playing field and tilted it irretrievably.

More from Ray Golarz:When the job is impossible, the task undoable, what you do can ease someone's pain

If Wyatt Earp were still alive cleaning up the rampant crime in Dodge City, we could tell him to stop bothering citizens. We would advise him that there is a new sheriff in town called the Supreme Court. Shoot up the streets and saloons and have a ball.

We live in a nation that must now be prepared for anarchy and chaos in small towns, schools, on streets, in grocery stores, virtually anywhere at any time.

Meanwhile, the misinformed ignore the obvious  hundreds of millions of weapons. They suggest rather that we should focus upon, what they say, is the modicum of Americans who are mentally ill. Some years ago, I taught abnormal psychology. Research then and still today makes it clear: No less than 25% of Americans are considered to be in need of some kind of psychological assistance.

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The actual number is staggering. Who should we focus on? Come on America, get real! Does anyone really believe that we can accurately pinpoint probable killers in a timely manner and thus resolve this gun-killing epidemic?

Join the conversation:How to submit a letter to the editor or guest column to The Herald-Times

The most Alice in Wonderland aspect of this gun controversy is the allowance, ownership, and use of automatic weapons of war  pure insanity. As a veteran, father, grandfather, and citizen I say the AR-15-style rifle must be outlawed in every corner of this country. Following there should be a brief period of time where such weapons must be turned over to authorities. After this brief period, possession and ownership of such a weapon, including modified weapons capable of firing at this speed should be considered a felony. How do we expect our law enforcement officers to insure a safe America with these weapons out there? How do we relax about the safety of any citizen?

Former Chief Justice Warren Burger summarized the action of the Supreme Court in District of Columbia v. Heller as, one of the greatest pieces of fraud ever perpetrated on the American people. Years later Justice John Paul Stephens declared that the decision in Heller was the worst decision ever rendered by a Supreme Court.

Dont be misled. Guns kill and we have 400 million of them and counting. Only one country in the world has constitutionally protected arms possession with minimal regulations  the United States. Not even the most primitive of societies can compete now with our new predictable savagery.

Raymond Golarz is co-author of The Problem Isnt Teachers and Sweet Land of Liberty and former superintendent of the Richmond and Hobart schools. He is a Bloomington resident.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Columnist argues no one is safe with so many guns in America
Those sentenced to death in Idaho could soon face execution by firing squad under a new bill before the state legislature.

Lawmaker Bruce Skaug introduced the bill last week calling for the reinstatement of death by firing squad if lethal injection chemicals are unavailable.

Under the bill, the states preference would remain putting condemned prisoners to death intravenously, but if there is a delay of five or more days after the death warrant is issued, then a firing squad can be used.

The state cancelled the execution of Gerald Pizzuto Jr in 2022 after the Idaho Department of Corrections had been unable to obtain the cocktail of chemicals used for a lethal injection.

The way it stands now, they may never get those materials for the lethal injections, Mr Skaug told the House Ways and Means committee, according to the Associated Press. This is a rule of law issue: Our criminal system should work and our penalty should be exacted.

US states have faced severe shortages in lethal injection chemicals for years as European countries and pharmaceutical companies have sought to restrict their access.

In 2021, South Carolina lawmakers voted to allow prisoners to choose between death by firing squad or lethal injection after its batch of lethal injections expired eight years earlier.

The legislation has since been challenged in the state courts. In January, the state Supreme Court ordered a lower court to get more information from the South Carolina Department of Corrections about its attempts to acquire lethal injection drugs.

The new legislation could be impactful in high profile cases such as the one involving Bryan Kohberger, who faces a capital murder trial over the gruesome stabbings of Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in an off-campus rental home in Moscow, Idaho, on 13 November.

Bryan Kohberger could be executed by firing squad if a new Idaho bill passes (AP)

Kohberger, 28, was arrested about six weeks later in Pennsylvania and extradited to Idaho where he is in custody awaiting his 26 June preliminary trial hearing. Should Kohberger be convicted, he could be sentenced to death as the death penalty is considered the maximum penalty in Idaho when it comes to defendants who either plead guilty or are found guilty of first-degree murder, per NBC affiliate King5.

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Under Mr Skaugs bill, the director of the Idaho Department of Corrections would work out the logistics of executing a death row inmate by firing squad, including the type of weapons used.

It still has to pass the Ways and Means Committee before going before Idahos House of Representatives for a vote.

Ronnie Lee Gardner was the last person to be executed by firing squad in the United States in Utah in 2010.
Feb 26, 2023; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; New York Islanders center Bo Horvat (14) celebrates his first period goal with New York Islanders left wing Zach Parise (11) against the Winnipeg Jets at Canada Life Centre. Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports /  James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP)  Semyon Varlamov picked up a shutout with a 23-save effort and the New York Islanders handed the Winnipeg Jets their third straight loss, 4-0 on Sunday.

Bo Horvat scored a short-handed goal, and Alexander Romanov, Brock Nelson and Adam Pelech scored for New York.

David Rittich stopped 20 shots for Winnipeg.

Pelech got an empty-net goal with 2:01 remaining in the contest when he banked the puck off the boards attempting to ice it.

Nelson made it a 3-0 game with just 1:19 left in the middle period. He took a pass from Zach Parise, niftily deked around Winnipegs Kyle Connor and fired the puck past Rittich.

New York doubled its advantage when Romanovs screened shot from the point made it past Rittich 4:22 into the second period.

The Jets did not get their second shot on goal until around the five-minute mark of the second.

Horvat opened the scoring on the penalty kill 7:56 into the opening period. He carried the puck out of his own end and into the Jets zone and sent a long shot that went over Rittichs right shoulder.

NOTES

With his goal, Nelson set a new career high of 60 points in a season. He now has 16 points in his last 17 games.  Horvat also hit a new career mark with his 62nd point of the campaign.

Newly-acquired Jet Nino Niederreiter did not dress for Sundays contest against the Islanders. Niederreiter was addressing a visa issue, so the Jets recalled forward Axel Jonsson-Fjallby.  The Isles were missing injured forwards Mathew Barzal (lower body) and Jean-Gabriel Pageau (upper body). Forward Josh Bailey returned to action after missing three games with an upper-body injury.  The Jets had killed all 13 penalties in their last four games heading into Sundays game.  Winnipeg had scored just nine goals in its last six games.

UP NEXT

Islanders: Play at Minnesota on Tuesday night.

Jets: Host the Kings on Tuesday night.
Photo: Getty (Getty Images)

Jamie Lee Curtis won Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture at the Screen Actors Guild awards Sunday night for her role in Everything Everywhere All At Once, and she took the opportunity in her speech to acknowledge being a Nepo Baby.

Im wearing the wedding ring that my father gave my mother. They hated each other, by the way, Curtis said to laughs from the audience, but my sister Kelly and I were born from love. And my father was from Hungary, and my mother was from Denmark, and they had nothing, and they became these monstrous stars in this industry they loved so much.

Read more

My parents were actors, she continued. And I married an actor. I love actors. I love acting. I love being a part of the crew, I love being a part of the cast...its such a beautiful job, and I know so many people in our industry who are actors who dont get to do this job. I know you look at me and think, well, Nepo Baby, thats why shes thereand I totally get it. But the truth of the matter is Im 64 years old, and this is just amazing.

Curtis, the daughter of famous actors Tony Curtis (Some Like It Hot) and Janet Leigh (Psycho), got wild applause from the audience. It should also be noted that she kissed her costar, Michelle Yeoh, right on the lips when she won the award, which may further endear anyone to Jamie Lee Curtis who might have been inclined to write her off for being a nepo baby.

omg heres Jamie Lee Curtis yelling shut up! and then kissing Michelle Yeoh on the lips after winning her SAG award pic.twitter.com/5cBtzSOfxg  Spencer Althouse (@SpencerAlthouse) February 27, 2023

Nepo baby or not, Curtis deserved this award: Her performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once as a miserable tax collector stripped her of all possible vanity, and she proved her acting chops, as if she hadnt before. Congratulations to this woman on being recognized for her work at age 64 in a society that prefers not to perceive women of that age at all.

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Since start of the full-scale war, U.S. aid to Ukraine in various areas amounts to about $50 bln - Treasury Secretary Yellen

Since the beginning of the full-scale war, U.S. assistance to Ukraine in the field of security, economy, humanitarian and social support has amounted to about $50 billion, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said.

Yellen said at a joint briefing with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal on Monday in Kyiv that since the beginning of this unprovoked aggression, the United States had been one of the biggest donors bilaterally supporting Ukraine's resilience. Now it can be said that in the field of security, economy, humanitarian and social support, they have already provided about $50 billion to support our country.

In particular, according to her, $14 billion has already been provided to support the economic resilience of Ukraine, and in the near future it is planned to provide another $8 billion to support in this area (out of the already announced $9.9 billion).

Yellen emphasized that they applaud the efforts that President Zelenskyy is making to ensure accountability and effective management of the financial resources that Ukraine receives from donors, so that the international support that comes to the country is transparent, and we all know where the funds are spent.

In turn, Shmyhal noted that in 2022 the United States was the leader among partner countries in terms of the level of financial assistance provided.

According to the prime minister, the United States has committed itself to allocate more than $10 billion to Ukraine by September, and has already begun this process.

In addition, the United States has already committed $1.5 billion as part of the rapid recovery, as well as $1.1 billion to support energy recovery in Ukraine and Moldova.

Among other things, according to Shmyhal, during the meeting, the parties discussed sanctions pressure on Russia, military risk insurance in Ukraine, and the confiscation of frozen Russian assets.
Canadian Pacific argues the rail merger will not impact competition, since it operates mostly in Canada and the upper Midwest while Kansas City Southern operates mostly in the South and in Mexico.

Canadian Pacific argues the rail merger will not impact competition, since it operates mostly in Canada and the upper Midwest while Kansas City Southern operates mostly in the South and in Mexico.

A federal agency controlled by President Joe Bidens appointees could soon approve a merger between two massive railroad companies despite warnings from the Justice Department, a step that would further exacerbate the industry consolidation blamed for cost-cutting and safety failures.

The Surface Transportation Board is set to make a final decision soon on the $27 billion merger between Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern. The merger, if approved, would give the combined railroad control of lines stretching all the way from Canada to Mexico  a potential boon for Canadas oil industry that raises the possibility of more oil-carrying trains running through American cities and towns.

Approval of the merger would go against both the Biden administrations long-standing push to revive antitrust enforcement and its more recent invective against railroad industry power following the toxicderailment of a Norfolk Southern train in East Palestine, Ohio.

The timing and the final decision of the board remains up in the air, though antitrust advocates are increasingly fearful it will approve the merger  and Canadian Pacific executives are projecting confidence.

The White House declined to comment. We do not comment on pending decisions by independent agencies, including the Surface Transportation Board, a White House spokesman said.

Both Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern have stepped up their lobbying operations in recent months as they seek final approval for the merger, hiring former lawmakers and aides who worked on transportation issues.

Freight rail was one of the first industries to experience rapid consolidation, following the deregulation of the industry in the late 1970s. There were 40 major railroad companies in North America in 1980. Today, there are only seven.

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Were already at such a point of massive consolidation that were going to have a railroad that runs from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to Vancouver down through the Midwest and into Mexico, said Phillip Longman, the policy director at the progressive antitrust group Open Markets. Its going to make the old transcontinental railroad look like a branch line.

Progressives argue the consolidation, along with increased Wall Street investment and interest in the railroad companies, has given rise to cost-cutting, taking shortcuts on safety, and a culture that fights any attempt at government regulation. The result, progressives argue, is more risks, more derailments and more incidents like that in East Palestine.

The basic business model is lets shrink expenses faster than we shrink revenues, said Longman. They are compromising safety all over the place.

Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern are the sixth- and seventh-largest freight railroad companies in North America, and their merger would make the first of two Class I railroads  industry-speak for the largest companies  in 20 years.

The companies have argued there is little threat to competition in the merger, since they operate in largely distinct geographic territory: Canadian Pacific in Canada and the upper Midwest; Kansas City Southern in the South, Texas and Mexico. Theyve also argued the merger will take more than 64,000 carbon-emitting long-haul trucks off the road annually.

Our combination creates an unparalleled single-line network connecting three nations. Its a once-in-a-lifetime combination to inject new competition into the U.S. rail industry, where every existing customer has more options, not one less option, Canadian Pacific CEO Keith Creel said during the boards hearing on the merger in September. And, in fact, many shippers will have an alternative single-line rail option where today they only have one.

Antitrust advocates have argued past promises that railroad mergers would take trucks off the road have been overblown and said further consolidation will only exacerbate existing problems.

Lack of competition has allowed railroads to gut capacity, capture and extort businesses, fire thousands of workers, and threaten the integrity of Americas freight transport network and supply chains  all while extracting monopoly profits, Rep. Katie Porter (D-Calif.) wrote in a letter to the board opposing the merger.

The STB is independent of the Transportation Department, and Biden has appointed three of its five members. The board has the final word over railroad mergers and can deny any merger it decides is against the interests of the public.

In a filing with the board, the Justice Departments antitrust division did not come out and directly oppose the merger. But it suggested further consolidation of the rail industry needed to be closely watched.

The Board should carefully consider the competition impacts of further consolidation, the departments lawyers wrote. This is especially relevant in light of the recent supply chain disruptions that have wreaked havoc on American consumers and businesses. Freight rail connects us, from farms to cities, and from the ports through the heartland, and carries the goods that Americans depend on. Competition in this critical infrastructure is essential.

Board staffers released a hefty environmental impact statement on the proposed merger on Jan. 27, and federal law says the board must wait at least a month before releasing a final decision.

The two railroads, combined, have spent nearly $2 million lobbying on the merger since the start of 2021, according to federal lobbying records, with $320,000 going to former Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and $440,000 going to former Rep. Jim Slattery (D-Kan.).

The Surface Transportation Board was one of dozens of federal agencies covered by Bidens 2021 executive order directing the government to do more to promote competition and push back against monopoly power.

And the board has taken a number of major steps to promote competition in an industry that is already heavily regulated: It has proposed a rule allowing so-called captive shippers  those who are only served by a single railroad  to request the services of another railroad on tracks owned by the monopoly railroad and adopted a rule giving shippers more leverage when challenging rates they believe are unreasonable.
One tornado Sunday night has been confirmed so far. See the latest updates here.

A strong storm is bringing damaging winds from the eastern Texas panhandle into much of Oklahoma and southeast Kansas through the evening, according to the National Weather Service in Norman.

More: What's a tornado watch? Or tornado warning? Here's what to know about Oklahoma weather.

There is a moderate risk of severe thunderstorms across portions of western Oklahoma. The primary threat is damaging thunderstorm winds and tornadoes.

Severe weather continues east of I-35

Severe storms continue to push into eastern Oklahoma

The National Weather Service reports storms continuing to move east with damaging winds and possible embedded tornadoes. The severe threat has ended across western Oklahoma and the Oklahoma City metro.

NWS crews are preparing to scout and confirm the number of tornadoes that struck Sunday across Oklahoma.

Max Ungar, an NWS meteorologist, said wind gusts hit up to 80 mph at about 8:30 p.m., one mile south of Bridgeport in Caddo County just west of the metro area.

OG&E was reporting more than 25,000 customers affected by power outages Sunday night.

Severe weather threat continues east of I-35

Areas along and east of I-35 remain threatened by significant damaging winds, and tornadoes will continue over the next hour, the National Weather Service reports.

 Josh Dulaney

Confirmed tornado near Shawnee

The National Weather Service has confirmed a tornado continues and will impact Interstate 40 near Shawnee, McLoud and Dale.

 Josh Dulaney

Tornado warning remains in Oklahoma, Cleveland counties

Tornado warning remains for Oklahoma and Cleveland counties

The National Weather Service reports a tornado warning remains in effect until 10 p.m. for Oklahoma and Cleveland counties. NWS officials said they believe a tornado passed by just their south, in southeast Norman.

 Josh Dulaney

Warning sirens heard in Oklahoma City

Warning sirens heard in Oklahoma City. The city urges residents if they hear a siren, immediately take shelter and get more information about the storm.

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 Josh Dulaney

Tornado warning southwest of Oklahoma City

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning until 9:15 p.m. for Mustang, Tuttle and Union City.

 Josh Dulaney

Squall line approaching Oklahoma City

The National Weather Service reports the squall line will begin impacting the western side of the Oklahoma City metro area within the next 30 minutes. It will likely begin impacting the Interstate 35 corridor in the next 30 to 45 minutes. Damaging winds are expected.

 Josh Dulaney

Tornado confirmed by National Weather Service

The National Weather Service in Norman confirmed a tornado between Lone Wolf and Hobart.

 Josh Dulaney

Tornado warning until 8:30 p.m. for Hobart, Mountain View and Lone Wolf

Tornado warnings issued for more cities

Tornado warnings issued until 8:30 p.m. for near Hobart, Mountain View and Lone Wolf.

 Josh Dulaney

NWS reports tornado near Strong City

Tornado reported near Strong City

The National Weather Service has reported a tornado observed near Strong City. People in Leedey, Camargo, Taloga and Seiling are urged to take shelter.

 Josh Dulaney

Tornado warning for Sayre, Erick and Carter

Tornado warning issued through 7:30 p.m.

The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning through 7:30 p.m. for Mangum, Hollis, Arnett, Sayre, Erick and Carter.

 Josh Dulaney

Damaging winds increasing into southwest Oklahoma

Damaging winds increase in southwest Oklahoma

A squall line will enter southwest Oklahoma and parts of western north Texas shortly, according to the National Weather Service. The squall line has a history of destructive wind gusts as well as possible tornadoes.

 Josh Dulaney

Tornado warning issued for Reydon, Crawford and Roll

Tornado warning issued for parts of western Oklahoma

The NWS has issued a tornado warning until 7:15 p.m. for Reydon, Crawford and Roll.

 Josh Dulaney

Roger Mills County and surrounding locations - a supercell currently in the eastern Texas panhandle will enter Oklahoma shortly. This storm has a heightened potential for tornadoes in addition to large hail and damaging winds. #okwx pic.twitter.com/GCc462dbBR  NWS Norman (@NWSNorman) February 26, 2023

National Weather Service warns of supercell entering Oklahoma

Severe weather is moving into western Oklahoma. The National Weather Service in Norman has alerted Roger Mills County and surrounding locations to a supercell with heightened potential for tornadoes in addition to large hail and damaging winds.

 Josh Dulaney

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Severe storms hit across Oklahoma late Sunday night
Florida governor Ron DeSantis is calling out former Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Chapek.

DeSantis penned in upcoming memoir The Courage to be Free: Floridas Blueprint for American Revival that Chapek felt pressured to publicly condemn the Dont Say Gay bill in Florida due to the woke mob of leftist media.

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As the controversy over the Parental Rights in Education bill was coming to a head, Chapek called me. He did not want Disney to get involved, but he was getting a lot of pressure to weigh in against the bill, DeSantis wrote (via Fox News).

According to DeSantis, Chapek told him, We get pressured all the time. But this time is different. I havent seen anything like this before.

Chapek later slammed the Dont Say Gay bill when it was signed into law after telling Disney shareholders he urged DeSantis to shut down the bill restricting gender and sexuality discussions in elementary school. Chapek and Disney, however, funded bill supporters.

DeSantis criticized the hypocrisy, writing that he warned Chapek, People like me will say, Gee, how come Disney has never said anything about China, where they make a fortune?' DeSantis predicted Disney would face 48 hours of outrage from fans, saying, When I sign it, you will get another 48 hours of outrage, mostly online. Then there will be some new outrage that the woke mob will focus on and people will forget about this issue, especially considering the outrage is directed at a political-media narrative, not the actual text of the legislation itself.

DeSantis believed that Disney and Chapek ultimately caved to leftist media and activist pressure and pressed the false narrative against the bill and chose to escalate the battle by announcing legal action against the bill. DeSantis responded by targeting Disneys special tax district in Florida.

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Behind the scenes, I was not, as a father of children ages five, four, and two, comfortable with the continuation of Disneys special arrangement, DeSantis wrote. While the Walt Disney Company and its executives had a right to indulge in woke activism, Florida did not have to place the company on a pedestal while they do so  especially when the companys activism impacted the rights of parents and the well-being of children.

He continued, Even though Democrats often rail about the nefarious power exerted over politics by large corporations, and supposedly oppose special carveouts for big companies, they all dutifully lined up in support of keeping Disneys special self-governing status.

In November 2022, longtime Disney CEO Bob Iger announced he was replacing Chapek after two years away from the company. Iger is believed to have allegedly criticized Chapeks steering of the conglomerate. The Florida special tax district is currently being reworked with a new deal between Iger and DeSantis.

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Rosalynn Carter Has Never Known Life Without Jimmy  She Met Her Future Husband as a Newborn

Rosalynn Carter has spent the vast majority of her life  76 years  married to former President Jimmy Carter, and by all accounts, she has no regrets.

Despite the immeasurable stress they've faced at various points in their relationship, Jimmy and Rosalynn have never crumbled, always leaning on one another when things get tough. DuBose Porter, the Carters' longtime friend and political ally, once told PEOPLE that when it comes to the former first couple, "sometimes it's difficult to know where one ends and the other begins."

Here's the story of how the apparent soulmates first met  in a hospital 95 years ago  paving the way for Jimmy and Rosalynn to progress from childhood acquaintances to long-distance crushes to, eventually, Mr. and Mrs. Carter.

RELATED: Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter's Relationship Timeline

Jimmy And Rosalynn Carter Embrace, 1976. Democratic presidential candidate Jimmy Carter embraces his wife Rosalynn after receiving the final news of his victory in the national general election, November 2, 1976. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Getty Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter on election night in 1976

On August 18, 1927, in the small town of Plains, Georgia, nurse Lillian Carter delivered a baby named Eleanor Rosalynn Smith  or Rosalynn, for short. The Carters were friends with the Smiths, and having kids further linked them in a town of just 600 people.

Shortly after Rosalynn was born, Miss Lillian brought her 3-year-old son, Jimmy, into the hospital to make a new friend. (There have been conflicting reports on the exact timing that Jimmy was introduced to Rosalynn, though biographer Jonathan Alter previously told PEOPLE it happened three days after her birth.)

At the time, of course, their introduction didn't mean much. But looking back, it signifies just how far back the longest-married presidential couple goes  a literal lifetime.

RELATED: 15 Heartwarming Moments from Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's Decades-Long Love Story

Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Smith were married shortly after Carter's graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946. Carter's portrait is from sometime during his years in the Academy (1943-46) and Rosalynn's picture is from 1944, when she was 17. The couple is celebrating their 75th anniversary on July 7, 2021. (Jimmy Carter Library)

Jimmy Carter Library

Jimmy and Rosalynn weren't fast friends, as Alter has clarified, but they were acquainted through their families growing up. Rosalynn was very good friends, however, with Jimmy's younger sister Ruth, who was closer to her in age and one of the few other girls in town.

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It wasn't until after Jimmy went off to the United States Naval Academy that Rosalynn has said her interest in him was piqued, after seeing a photo of him in uniform. Her curiosity didn't run too deep at first, because he was studying far from home.

Jimmy Carter wedding picture is shown here. (AP Photo/Atlanta Journal-Constitution)**MARIETTA DAILY OUT, GWINNETT DAILY POST OUT** /Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP)

Atlanta Journal-Constitution/AP

But one summer while Jimmy was visiting Plains before returning to the Naval Academy for his final year of school, he spotted Rosalynn and asked her out on a whim. They saw a movie together  nothing too special or conversational  yet Jimmy went home that night with a feeling that he had just spent time with the woman he'd marry.

RELATED: Jimmy Carter Recalls First Date with His Wife  and Telling His Mom He Knew He'd Marry Rosalynn

The young lovebirds began dating long-distance, during which time Jimmy coined the acronym "ILYTG"  "I love you the goodest"  as a way to succinctly and briefly express his affection.

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn jog across a frosty field in Plains, Ga., January 24, 1981. (AP Photo/Charles Kelly)

Charles Kelly/AP

Quickly after Jimmy's graduation they tied the knot, beginning their marriage with a series of moves around the United States, going wherever the Navy took them.

In time, they returned to Georgia to grow the Carter family's peanut farming business, each having a hand in operations. The couple grew more politically engaged amid racial tensions sparked by Brown v. Board of Education, and would embark on an unexpected political journey that landed Jimmy in the statehouse, governor's mansion and Oval Office. With each new campaign, Rosalynn helped develop strategy behind the scenes and showed up publicly in support of her husband.

Upon leaving the White House and returning to private life, they co-founded the Carter Center and rebranded themselves as humanitarians and activists, living modestly back in Plains between public appearances and trips.

RELATED: Jimmy Carter Is Back to Teaching Sunday School After Hip Replacement Surgery

Jimmy Carter - Plains, GA

Matt McClain/The Washington Post/Getty Jimmy Carter and wife Rosalynn in 2018

RELATED: The Night Jimmy Carter Knew He'd Wed Rosalynn, Their Marriage's Lowest Moment & Their Love Now

Over the past 76 years, the Carters have gone to the ends of the earth with one another as a military couple, humanitarians and, for a brief time, the most visible couple in the world.

When Jimmy battled life-threatening cancer in 2015 at the age of 90, Rosalynn helped him power through it, even knowing that the former president's death was a possibility. He beat the odds and made it to the other side of the health scare, securing eight more years with his wife and their family.

But in February, after 98-year-old Jimmy opted to terminate further medical intervention and receive hospice care in his Georgia home, it became clear that the Carters' record-breaking marriage is nearing a natural end. And soon, for the first time in Rosalynn's life, she may be forced to see a world without Jimmy.
megadeth reunion - Credit: Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Megadeth reunited with lead guitarist Marty Friedman, who played on the groups platinum and multiplatinum Rust in Peace and Countdown to Extinction albums, among others, during their performance at Tokyos famed Budokan venue on Monday night. He joined the band toward the end of the set, which was livestreamed, for renditions of the deep cuts Countdown to Extinction and Tornado of Souls, as well as one of the groups biggest hits, Symphony of Destruction.

Playing alongside Megadeths current lead guitarist, Kiko Loureiro, Friedman replicated his acrobatic, fiery solos note for note on each track. The group opened the segment of the set with a video of Friedman playing in the band before launching into Countdown, which featured the guitarists harmonizing the backing melodies. Ladies and gentlemen, frontman Dave Mustaine told the crowd, please welcome my dear friend, Marty Friedman. For Symphony, Mustaine chose to sing into a mic on the side of the stage to give Friedman more of a spotlight. The two musicians hugged at the songs end before Friedman exited the stage.

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Mustaine announced the reunion a couple of weeks back in an exclusive Rolling Stone interview. When Marty said, Hey, I can play at this gig, I thought, This is so magnificent,' he said. Its gonna be so much fun to get Kiko and Marty together, because theyre both geniuses on guitar. So this is like a gigantic birthday and Christmas present for me.

It has been a long time  23 years to be exact since Ive been on the same stage with Dave Mustaine making music, Friedman said in a statement. Weve both taken drastically different paths since then. That doesnt change the fact that Im extremely proud of the part that I played in Megadeths history and legacy. Im also very, very proud of the bands many great achievements and continued success in my absence. For right now, I just feel immense joy and some serious adrenaline. I am looking forward to playing with Megadeth at this very cool place, the Budokan.

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Since exiting Megadeth over creative differences, Friedman went on to become a celebrity in Japan, appearing on hundreds of television shows there. He recently became a Japan Heritage ambassador and composed and performed Japan Heritage Official Theme Song.

Megadeth livestreamed the Budokan concert, which featured a career-spanning set list, with rebroadcasts planned for different time zones. The pay-per-view event will also be available on demand for a couple of days following the performance.

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SCHOOLCRAFT TWP.  The St. Joseph County sheriff was arrested early Sunday for driving drunk after a crash on US-131 south of Schoolcraft, according to Michigan State Police.

The Kalamazoo County Sheriffs Office said Mark Lillywhite, 47, of Three Rivers, was booked into the jail around 6:30 a.m. Sunday and released around 4:30 p.m. that day per protocol.

The crash happened around 2:20 a.m. on southbound US-131 near West YZ Avenue in Schoolcraft Township. Michigan State Police say Lillywhite was headed south when he rear-ended another SUV, pushing both vehicles off the road. All injuries were minor.

Mark Lillywhite

Witnesses told MSP that Lillywhites SUV didnt have its headlights on before the crash.

It was not confirmed if the Traverse was a county-owned vehicle.

The sheriffs office says that as soon as deputies responded to the scene, they called in MSP, who took over.

Troopers noticed Lillywhite seemed to have been drinking. They performed field sobriety tests and Lillywhite was arrested.

He was jailed on charges of operating while intoxicated and possession of a firearm while intoxicated, the Kalamazoo County Sheriffs Office said. Its not yet clear when he will be arraigned.

MSP is still investigating. This includes testing evidence seized at the crash scene, which could take several days. Once the investigation is over, troopers will turn the case over to the Kalamazoo County prosecutor who will decide on charges.

Lillywhites driving record shows he was involved in a 2016 crash in which he failed to stop within an assured clear distance, after which he took a basic driver improvement course. The record lists another crash in November 2022 but shows Lillywhite did not take any hazardous action. No one was injured in either of those crashes.

This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: St. Joseph County sheriff arrested on drunken driving charge
HONOLULU - Val DeCola had never been to Hawaii before.

An emergency trip to be at the bedside of her critically injured teen son is no way to make that first.

But, thats what moms do.

More: Springdale Road tragedyTeen victim of hit-and-run accident was starting a new life in Cherry Hill

DeCola, of Maple Shade, has been on Oahu with her son, Christian, 19, since Feb. 13 after learning the University of Chaminade forensic science major was critically injured in a hit-and-run crash while delivering food on his moped.

On Monday, she boarded a flight home - this time with Christian at her side.

This Courier-Post journalist was on Oahu last week when DeCola emailed about a crowdfunding campaign to offset the cost of Christians medical flight and continued care. We met Sunday evening at the Queens Medical Center in Honolulu as mother and son readied to return to the Garden State.

Val DeCola shows her son, Christian, a message on her phone inside his hospital room at the Queens Medical Center on Oahu Sunday, Feb. 26. Mother and son are returning to New Jersey after Christian was seriously injured in a hit-and-run moped crash in Honolulu Feb. 12

What happened to Christian DeCola?

Christian, a theater kid, mom said, was making a delivery about 10 p.m. Feb. 12 on Dole Street near the campus of the University of Hawaii at Manoa when the crash happened.

DeCola doesnt know who hit Christian, where that person is now or how it happened. Beyond a case number, DeColas been given no details from the Honolulu Police Department.

A message sent Saturday to a spokesperson for the department went unanswered.

The call to DeCola came early in the morning, Jersey time. She recognized the hospitals number from a call weeks earlier when Christian had a minor moped accident.

This time it was much worse, and within hours she was at JFK International for a direct flight to Honolulu.

Christians injuries are profound

In this crowded beach resort, mopeds are as ubiquitous as sunburns and beach chairs.

There are no helmet laws here. Christian wasnt wearing one when he was hit; the injuries were profound.

He had bleeding into the brain and blood collected beneath the skull; his temporal bone was fractured; he shattered his left kneecap and he has an altered mental status.

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He only really remembers college right now, DeCola said.

Those who know Christian, though, remember a funny, smart, handsome, young man, she said.

I know all moms say this, but this kid is special and was following his dream to see the world.

Christian greeted his journalist visitor Sunday evening with a vibrant hello and a compliment about the flip flops he was wearing.

Christian quizzed his mom about the notes around his room reminding of Mondays release and snatched her up in a deep hug when she assured him theyd soon be Jersey bound.

Thank you for visiting, Christian called as we left the room.

DeCola paused at the door and then smiled. That was nice to hear him say.

Why the DeCola family needs help

Its difficult to explain how hard it is to get us out of here, she said.

The flight home with a medical escort wasnt covered by Christians insurance and his care in Honolulu was all out of network.

The mother of three - sister Penelope, 8, and brother Jax, 7, are back home with dad Andy Ashmen - isnt used to asking for help.

But after years of freely helping others it's time to let others help her family.

We get by and enjoy helping others, so it just means the world to know how much people care.

In the two weeks since the crash, donors have contributed more than $27,000 toward a GoFundMe goal of $50,000.

The 2022 Maple Shade High School graduate, who returned to South Jersey on Tuesday morning, will spend about two weeks at Kessler Rehabilitation Center in Marlton before going home.

The medical care and life adjustments, though, will continue.

My main goal is to get him back to the way he was before, even just a few months, DeCola said. But, we really just are hoping for a connection again.

Christian started classes at University of Chaminade in January. A spokeswoman on Saturday afternoon said the college supports the freshman in his recovery.

We were sorry to hear of Christians accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family as he prepares to return home.

Those who wish to donate to Christians benefit should visit gofundme.com/f/christian-decola-medical-expenses

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Christian DeCola returns to New Jersey after hit-run crash in Hawaii
More families than ever are opting for independent schools using Wisconsins parental choice programs, so get ready to be told again what a burden they are.

Which is nonsense.

The number of parents taking state aid to private schools is up by 43% since 2017 even as school districts enrollment has fallen 5%, according to the states annual third-Friday headcounts. Last fall, 3,270 more families than the year before used choice to find a school that would better serve their children than district schools, whose enrollment fell by 6,444. Gov. Tony Evers wants to close off those opportunities: In his budget, he proposed freezing enrollment in the wildly popular Parental Choice Programs, which would throttle them.

The Legislature is unlikely to go along, so expect a flurry of commentary about how much those parents choices cost in property taxes. Its a perennial attack against the more than 50,000 children using choice. WEAC, the public-schools union, featured it in its messaging last spring.

More:Lowering taxes for everyone makes it easier for Wisconsinites to stay in the state they love

Like most spin, it builds on a grain of truth: When parents outside Milwaukee take their state school aid to a private school, the cost is arbitrarily shifted to property taxes. It used to not work that way as the program was funded directly from the state. Theres no reason it cannot be transitioned back.

Heres how it currently works:

When a child goes to a private school via choice, $8,399 of state aid follows each elementary school child, or $9,045 for high schoolers. The DPI then redirects the aid it would have sent to the school district where the child lives by the amount of the choice grant.

Patrick McIlheran, policy director for the Badger Institute.

This only makes sense. The school district isnt educating the child. Why would the state keep sending aid to a district on behalf of a child whos no longer there?

What doesnt make sense is the current impact on property taxpayers.

In school districts outside Milwaukee, the state aid first flows through the books of the school district the student lives in before going to the private school she actually will attend. The effect on the districts budget is zero, but property taxpayers are required to make up for the districts loss of revenue.

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Critics of parental choice like to complain about how the state is funding two systems of schools. That, too, is misdirection.

Instead of one public school system, Wisconsin funds 421 school districts, and state aid depends on how many children each teaches. If a district loses a child because her parents move from, say, Oshkosh to Omro, Oshkosh doesnt go on getting state aid for her education. Money follows the child to Omro.

Instead of two systems, the state really is funding 871,000 children between districts, charter schools and private choice. What matters is that children get a good education. Research and parents choices show thats more likely, for many children, at a private school. The state should honor the choices of those parents, who know what is in their childrens best interest.

That opting for a private school should affect property taxes is an accounting quirk. There is a remedy.

The state simply needs to fund all choice students with the Milwaukee model: State money follows the child, coming out of the states general fund. Property taxes play no part. Districts levies are treated no differently than if a childs family moved.

This policy change would simplify the funding process and decouple the funding streams of these programs. It shifts the cost of choice off property taxes and onto state taxes.

Choice, in the end, saves taxpayers money. That $9,045 grant, the total taxpayer outlay for choice students, is far below the average $15,200 per pupil spent by school districts. The gap should be less: The state should view each child as having equal value.

But the low-hanging fruit is fixing the accounting problem. That costs taxpayers nothing.

Winners? Kids, their parents and property taxpayers. All that is lost is an avenue of attack against families making those choices.

Patrick McIlheran is the policy director for the Badger Institute, a conservative not-for-profit institute established in 1987 working to engage and energize Wisconsinites and others in discussions and timely action on key public policy issues critical to the states future, growth and prosperity.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Funding school choice programs doesn't need to impact property taxes.
Days after a surprise trip by President Joe Biden, his top economic official also visited Kyiv and reiterated the administration's support for Ukraine.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, announced the first transfer of $1.2 billion as part of a nearly $10 billion package in civilian aid for the embattled country.

"Just as security assistance bolsters the front lines, I believe that this economic assistance is fortifying the home front, thereby strengthening Ukraine's resistance," she said.

Besides echoing Bidens words that the U.S. will stand with Ukraine as long as necessary, Yellen praised Zelenskyy's efforts to ensure transparency in how aid for his country is spent.

Yellen also visited a renovated school that sustained significant damage from a Russian missile that landed nearby in March and told students and teachers, America stands with you in this fight for freedom, and we will be by your side and help you rebuild.

CHINA SAYS ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH RUSSIA IS SOLID:Russian economy shrugs off sanctions: Ukraine live updates

Developments:

In his nightly video address, Zelenskyy confirmed defending the eastern city of Bakhmut is getting "more and more difficult,'' and once again appealed for Western fighter jets, saying: "We will be able to fully protect the sky when the aviation taboo in relations with our partners is lifted.''

China has not yet decided whether to provide Russia "lethal weaponry'' for its war in Ukraine, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told CNN on Monday.

A concert by Slovenia's avant-garde band Laibach in Ukraine has been canceled after the group angered Ukrainians by implying that Kyiv was fighting a war for its Western masters. Ukrainians apparently were angered by Laibachs statement calling the war a cynical proxy war for the geostrategic interests of world powers.

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Moscow-installed occupying authorities in Kherson province towns of Oleshky and Skadovsk are preparing to "escape" to Russian-occupied Crimea, fearing a Ukrainian counteroffensive, the Ukraine military reported.

American action-movie actor Steven Seagal, who also holds Russian citizenship and strongly supported the Kremlin's 2014 annexation of Crimea, was awarded the Order of Friendship by President Vladimir Putin.

PUTIN RELYING ON US 'ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER': Putin hoping Americans tire of Ukraine war, CIA chief says: Ukraine updates

Supporters of Ukraine fill the square during a Stand with Ukraine rally at Copley Square in Boston on Feb. 26, 2023.

China accuses US of 'hypocrisy,' 'hegemonism' because of sanctions

China slammed the United States on Monday for "illegal" sanctions placed on Chinese companies involved with Russia and warned of retaliation if the sanctions are not revoked.

Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, said at a press briefing that the U.S. actions have no basis in international law and no U.N. Security Council mandate. She said China's position on Ukraine has been objective and fair, promoting peace talks and a political solution.

"The U.S., however, has been fanning the flame and fueling the fight with more weaponry," she said.

The Chinese company Changsha Tianyi Space Science and Technology Research Institute drew U.S. sanctions for supplying affiliates of the Russian mercenary Wagner Group with satellite imagery of Ukraine. Mao said the U.S. has been spreading disinformation that China would supply weapons to Russia  and sanctioning Chinese companies under that pretext.

"This is out-and-out hegemonism and double standard and absolute hypocrisy," Mao said. "The Chinese side will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. We will take resolute countermeasures in response to the U.S. sanctions."

U2 stars Bono, The Edge again show support, perform with Ukrainian band

Two and a half months into the war, U2 front man Bono and guitarist The Edge played at a Kyiv subway station used by residents as a bomb shelter, where they were joined by members of the Ukrainian rock band Antytila who were helping defend their country.

On Sunday the musicians joined forces again, this time in a more conventional setting.

Late in Antytila's charity concert at a London music venue, the rock legends walked on stage for a rendition of U2's "Mothers of the Disappeared'' alongside lead singer Taras Topolia and the rest of the Ukrainian group.

U2 called the opportunity to perform together "a privilege'' in a tweet, adding, "These musicians - Taras, Dmytros, Sherhi, Dmytros, Mykhailo  The people of Ukraine, dont want to be at war They want peace, but not without freedom.''

U2 members Bono, left, and The Edge, right, perform with Taras Topolia, lead singer of the Ukrainian rock band Antytila and army serviceman, during a set at a Kyiv subway station and bomb shelter in May.

Russian invasion triggered 'massive' human rights violations, UN chief says

Russias invasion of Ukraine triggered the most massive violations of human rights in the world today, the head of the United Nations said Monday.

"Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure have caused many casualties and terrible suffering," U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a speech to the U.N.-backed Human Rights Council in Geneva. He added that Russia has unleashed widespread death, destruction and displacement.

Russia has largely abandoned the fight in much of Ukraine, instead concentrating on capturing four provinces that Moscow claims to have annexed in September: Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia. The war rages fiercely with heavy casualties on both sides but little movement in the front lines. Ukraine says it will use battle tanks and other new weapons to launch its own offensive and reclaim all occupied territory.

Russia says it will never return Crimea to Ukraine

Crimea is an integral part of Russia and will never be returned to Ukraine, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday. Russia seized the peninsula in February 2014. In March 2014, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a treaty on Crimeas reunification with Russia.

The deputy head of the Ukrainian military intelligence service, Vadym Skibitsky, said a planned offensive includes the recapture of Crimea and attacks on Russian territory. "The purpose of our counteroffensive is to liberate all occupied territories of Ukraine  including Crimea," he told the German newspaper Berliner Morgenpost. "We won't stop until we have our country back in the 1991 borders."

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday marked the anniversary of Russia's assault on Crimea. Zelenskyy has pledged to win back Crimea and all Ukraine territory controlled by Russia since its invasion a year ago.

"9 years ago, Russian aggression began in Crimea. By returning Crimea, we will restore peace," he said on social media. "This is our land. Our people. Our history. We will return the Ukrainian flag to every corner of Ukraine."

Zelenskyy fires commander leading forces in Donbas amid corruption scandal

Zelenskyy has fired a senior military commander, the latest major step in the restructuring of Ukraine's defense ministry amid a corruption scandal.

The Ukrainian president gave no explanation Sunday when he issued a decree dismissing Eduard Moskalyov, commander of the joint forces operation that has been waging battle in the eastern Donbas region.

It's not clear whether Moskalyov, who took the position in March 2022 shortly after the war began, was part of Zelenskyy's crackdown on corruption set as a condition for Ukraine eventually joining the European Union.

The Ukrainian military has been involved in two recent cases of alleged impropriety, one of them tied to a scheme of buying food for soldiers at inflated prices, which led to the resignation of Deputy Defense Minister Vyacheslav Shapovalov. The other instance was in connection with embezzlement of funds meant for rebuilding.

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ukraine Russia war updates: Treasury's Janet Yellen visits Kyiv
Ukraine is actively working on the reforms necessary to start negotiations on joining the European Union, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk has said.

"We are not just waiting for negotiations on further full-fledged EU membership, we are ready to implement all the necessary reforms for this and are actively working to deepen Ukraine's integration into the EU," Stefanchuk said at a meeting with a delegation of representatives of the European People's Party (EPP) group of the European Parliament headed by EPP President Manfred Weber (Germany) in Kyiv.

According to the website of the Verkhovna Rada, the parties dwelled on the European integration direction of Ukraine, the beginning of negotiations on membership and future cooperation between the EU and Ukraine. According to Stefanchuk, Ukraine is determined to show the maximum result on the implementation of the seven recommendations of the European Commission for the start of negotiations on accession to the European Union during the interim (oral) assessment in the spring.

In addition, the participants discussed reforms on Ukraine's path to NATO, issues of strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation, as well as strengthening sanctions against the Russian Federation, especially in terms of bypassing them through third countries. They also discussed the bans of Russian propaganda media and the issuance of visas to citizens of the Russian Federation; reparations at the expense of funds and confiscation of property of the aggressor country in favor of Ukraine to compensate for the damage caused; restoration and reconstruction of Ukraine after the war with the involvement of representatives of the European business community.

Stefanchuk called on his European colleagues to use all their authority to strengthen and accelerate the supply of weapons, the availability of which is the main issue for Ukraine today.

The Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada thanked his European colleagues for the consistent position of the EPP in supporting Ukraine during the full-scale war unleashed by Russia. "Thanks to your leadership and the leadership of the EPP, the issue of Ukraine is constantly on the agenda of the European Parliament. And this is a great value for us. You were the first to say about the need for Ukraine to obtain the status of a candidate in the EU. And today we are proud that the EU flag stands next to the Ukrainian one in our parliament," Stefanchuk said.

He also stressed the importance of the EPP's consistent position on the issue of starting negotiations on Ukraine's full membership in the EU.

In turn, Weber assured his Ukrainian counterpart of the further work of European parliamentarians to strengthen sanctions against the aggressor country and all necessary steps to bring Ukraine's victory in the war closer. "The situation in Ukraine will always be important to us, so Europe should be united, strong and active in your support. Europeans are very close to Ukrainians and stand in solidarity with you in your struggle. And I hope for our common future success in the family of European nations," the EPP President stressed.
To explain how the pandemic placed a rocket booster on luxury-watch sales, the industry has embraced an overarching narrative: Stuck at home, watch-world aficionados and newcomers alike suddenly had nothing but timeand extra cashto indulge their passion. Jaclyn Li is the embodiment of that phenomenon. An Ivy League undergraduate student pursuing a psychology degree with a minor in economics, who also worked part time for a Singapore-based venture-capital firm during Covid, Li discovered her interest in timepieces in 2019 and homed in on her passion during the lockdowns of 2020, the same year she and four fellow watch lovers founded the Waiting List podcast. Shes since bought and traded some of the most sought-after wristwatches on the market, including vintage and modern styles from all the heavies: Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Patek Philippe, Richard Mille. Li spoke to Robb Report on a call from Harbin, China, where she was visiting her grandparents before the Chinese New Year. The conversation has been condensed and edited for space and clarity.

Watch collector Jaclyn Li

How did you get into watch collecting?

I dont wear many jewels, but I wore the watch my parents gave me when I got into college: a Rolex Yacht-Master II with an Oysterflex bracelet. I never had a need for another watch until the end of 2019, when I wanted to gift my mom something for her 50th birthday. I bought her a Patek Annual Calendar 4947 with a linen dial at the Tiffany salon in New York. Id never spent that much on anything before. When I gave it to her, I wanted to buy one for myself. So I went down the rabbit hole.

More from Robb Report

Patek cushion watch signed E. Gubelin

Any early mistakes?

I bought a vintage Rolex Daytona on eBay, a 6234 Pre-Daytona from the early 60s, because it was the cheapest one I could find. It had a patina on the dial that I liked, but it had wear and tear that didnt show well in photos. I lost a lot of money when I sold it.

Story continues

Whats the focus of your collecting?

When I first started, I was living by myself in Canada. It was the pandemic, and school wasnt happening, so I had a lot of time to look at stuff and read. I began acquiring things at a very fast pace. Looking back, I was a little out of control. But I was just buying pieces to touch and feelprimarily vintage Cartier. At the end of the day, Im a vintage geek at heart. I love the stories that come with older things.

Was this just before the market for vintage Cartier exploded?

Prices were very reasonable at the time. Cartier really blew up in late 2020 and early 2021. When I got my Cartier Crash Radieuse on trade, nobody wanted that watch. I traded an F.P. Journe Chronometre Bleu plus cash for it because I thought it was too big and heavy. I had just gotten the Journe, but I dont keep watches I dont wear.

Cartier Crash Radieuse, Patek Ref. 96

Youre also into independent watchmakers. You recently commissioned a piece by Kari Voutilainen, correct . . .

I still dont have the Voutilainen. I commissioned it at the end of 2020, and it was supposed to be done in March 2022. Since then, I have acquired other independents. My collecting trajectory went like this: vintage Cartier, vintage Patek (starting in the summer of 2020), and then at the end of 2020, I started exploring independents. I commissioned Kari V., then a piece from Atelier de Chronometrie, based in Barcelona. And 2021 was a big Patek year for me: I bought two 5004s, a 3970EP and a 3971P. I continued in 2022 with a full-set vintage 1526the first perpetual calendar made by Patek in a series. Its probably my favorite vintage Patek in my collection because of the story it carries. I bought that watch in May, and in November I bought another vintage Patek Galatea 2526G.

Whats your most unexpected purchase?

I just got a Richard Mille tourbillon, the 74-01. I had been interested in Richard Mille but didnt see myself

as someone who would own one. Theyre so bulky and masculine. And the ladies pieces had a lot of diamonds. I never considered tourbillons because of the pricetheyre in a different league. There was something so intriguing about it. I just got the watch last week.

Patek Ref. 3970EP London Saatchi, Richard Mille 74-01, Akrivia AK06, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Black Ceramic.

Have you discovered any lessons through your watch collecting?

Being patient. Especially when commissioning orders through independent brands. Im on a waitlist now. The brand is Charles Frodsham; theyre based in the UK. What I like about them is they take their timethey produce fewer than 10 pieces a year. When I inquired about them, the gentleman told me it was a 10-year wait. I had to think about it. You dont know what the world is going to be like in 10 years, or if Im going to be here. Its really about trust.

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When she served the banana after takeoff I thought it was just an underwhelming appetizer."

With very few exceptions, the in-flight meals on most airlines range from "slightly better than nothing" to "slightly better than taking a bite out of the tray table." But even when air travelers go into their flights expecting disappointment, it's still possible to be let down. Just ask this business class passenger flying on Japan Airlines from Jakarta, Indonesia to Tokyo, who says they were served a banana  one single banana  as a "vegan meal."

In a post on the FlyerTalk forum, Kris Chari wrote about his experience, asking other users if they'd had a similarly "underwhelming" meal service on that particular route. "Before takeoff today, my flight attendant confirmed that I ordered [a Vegetarian Vegan Meal] and that my breakfast was a banana, by which I mistakenly assumed she meant that breakfast included a banana," Chari wrote. "When she served the banana after takeoff, I thought it was just an underwhelming appetizer, but it was, in fact, the entire meal service!"

Although Chari added that the banana was "one of the best I've had recently," he still wondered why his meal was essentially a snack. "Lunch was barely seasoned spaghetti, and my meals on other [Japan Airlines flights] were also bad, but nothing was quite as insubstantial [as] this. It was cute of the crew to serve the banana with chopsticks, though," he commented.

Related:5 Things to Know Before Ordering Food and Drinks on the Plane

In a statement to Simple Flying, a Japan Airlines spokesperson said that the current snack/refreshment for any passenger on that route who ordered a special meal was a banana. We take customer satisfaction seriously and we will continue to respond to our menus in light of the growing interest and diverse needs of customers requesting special meals, including the valuable feedback from this customer, the statement read.

Miljan Zivkovic / Shutterstock

For non-vegans, the snack option during that flight was seared tuna with Moroccan eggplant salad, cheese, orange salsa, and a baguette.

Story continues

Chari told Insider he expected to receive the equivalent of what non-vegan passengers were served as a snack, such as a sandwich, salad, vegan cheese, or a baguette. (He did note that when he asked a member of the flight crew for something else to eat, he was given almonds and some watermelon cubes, which he said were both great.)

In 2020, Japan Airlines started offering the JAL Ethical Choice Meal Skip Option on certain itineraries, and that option has since been rolled out to all of its flights worldwide. This service, which helps reduce food waste while allowing passengers to rest comfortably in the cabin, has been well received by customers, especially those who board late-night flights and say they are glad to be able to take a good nights rest, the airline said.

For every Meal Skip, the airline will also make a donation to Japans Table for Two charity, which will be used to fund school meal programs for students in developing countries. And really, if all youre missing is a banana and a set of chopsticks, then skipping a meal doesnt sound that bad.



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Read the original article on Food & Wine.
Alex Murdaughs defence team is expected to rest its case today after calling four final witnesses to the stand to try to convince jurors that he is innocent of the murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul.

The high-profile murder trial will resume at 9.30am ET in Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, South Carolina, with the defence planning to wrap up by early afternoon.

The prosecution will then present its rebuttal before closing arguments take place.

By the end of the week, the disgraced attorney and accused killer may know his fate.

Over two dramatic days in court last week, Mr Murdaugh took the stand and confessed he had lied for the past 20 months about his alibi for the night of the murders.

In a combative cross-examination, prosecutor Creighton Waters accused Mr Murdaugh of continuing his web of lies on the stand as he played bodycam footage which completely undermined the reasons the defendant gave for lying.

This comes as SLED hit Mr Murdaugh with a new misdemeanour charge on Friday. Officials have given no details but FITS News reported that the charge is in connection to a family member passing him contraband in court.

Alex Murdaugh murder trial

Moment Murdaugh accused of lying on the stand  about his own big lie

11:30 , Rachel Sharp

A bombshell moment unfolded at Alex Murdaughs murder trial when he was accused of lying on the stand  about why he had lied over his alibi on the night of the murders.

At the end of an intense and lengthy cross-examination on Friday, the disgraced legal scion was confronted over what prosecutor Creighton Waters claimed was his latest lies to the court.

Story continues

All those reasons you just gave this jury about the most important part of your testimony was a lie, too, wasnt it? the prosecutor said.

Rachel Sharp reports on how prosecutors wrapped up their cross-examination.

Moment Alex Murdaugh is accused of lying on the stand

Murdaugh continues to claim murder linked to 2019 boat wreck

09:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh has claimed that he still believes his wife and son were murdered by unknown assailants because of the 2019 fatal boat wreck.

The embattled legal scion on Friday told jurors his theory about the killers motive for shooting dead Maggie and Paul as he continued to protest his innocence of any involvement in the 7 June 2021 slayings.

I believe that boat wreck is the reason why PawPaw and Maggie were killed, he said.

Rachel Sharp has the story.

Alex Murdaugh continues to claim wife and son were murdered over 2019 boat wreck

Murdaugh confronted about changing story after kennel video

07:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh was confronted in court about his sudden and dramatic change in story about the night of his wife and sons murders  coming only after jurors were shown a bombshell video placing him at the scene and more than half a dozen witnesses identified his voice in the footage.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Alex Murdaugh confronted about changing story

Trial viewers incorrectly claim to spot author John Grisham in the courtroom

05:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Eagle-eyed viewers following the explosive Alex Murdaugh murder trial sparked frenzied  but incorrect  speculation that acclaimed author John Grisham was in the courtroom.

No, hes not researching his latest novel.

Alex Murdaugh trial viewers claim to spot author John Grisham in the courtroom

Watch: Murdaugh questioned about being at crime scene with victims

03:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh questioned about being at crime scene with victims

Key revelations from the Alex Murdaugh murder trial... so far

01:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Its a dramatic saga that now includes murder, a botched hitman plot, multi-million-dollar fraud schemes and a series of unexplained deaths.

The now-disbarred attorney denies the allegations and has pleaded not guilty.

Mr Murdaughs trial got underway at Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro on 23 January.

The prosecution has now wrapped up its case with the defence beginning its own case on 17 February  where Mr Murdaugh is expected to take the stand.

Here are the key revelations from the trial so far:

Key moments from Alex Murdaugh murder trial

Murdaugh cant remember last conversation with wife and son

Sunday 26 February 2023 23:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh has claimed he cant remember the last conversation he ever had with his wife Maggie and son Paul  just minutes before they were gunned down by the kennels on the familys hunting estate.

Read on:

Alex Murdaugh cant remember last conversation with wife and son

Watch: Murdaugh confronted about changing his story about night of murders

Sunday 26 February 2023 21:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh confronted about changing his story about night of murders

Faces in the courtroom: Whos who at the Alex Murdaugh trial

Sunday 26 February 2023 19:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Rachel Sharp introduces some of the key players in the case:

Who are the attorneys and judge in the Alex Murdaugh murder trial?

Who is the legal dynasty heir on trial for the murders of his wife and son

Sunday 26 February 2023 17:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The hotly-anticipated trial of Alex Murdaugh is currently under way in South Carolina where he is facing life in prison for the double murder of his wife and son.

The 54-year-old heir to a prominent legal dynasty is accused of gunning down wife Maggie, 52, and their son Paul, 22, on the grounds of the sprawling family estate in Islandton back on 7 June 2021.

He was arrested in July 2022 and charged with two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Read on:

Who is Alex Murdaugh?

Timeline of murders, financial fraud, unexplained deaths and arrest

Sunday 26 February 2023 15:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Disgraced legal dynasty heir Alex Murdaugh is currently on trial in a South Carolina courthouse for the murders of his wife and son.

Mr Murdaugh, 54, is accused of shooting Paul, 22, twice with a shotgun and Maggie, 52, five times with a rifle on the familys sprawling hunting lodge in Islandton on 7 June 2021.

He was arrested more than a year later in July 2022 and charged with their murders.

In the 20 months since the brutal double murders propelled the Murdaughs onto national headlines, a series of other scandals, allegations and alleged crimes have also come to light.

Heres a timeline of the key moments in the case:

Alex Murdaugh: A timeline of murders, financial fraud, crime scene and arrest

Alex Murdaugh faces new charge as trial for his wife and sons murders continues

Sunday 26 February 2023 14:22 , Graig Graziosi

Alex Murdaugh, the legal scion on trial for the murders of his wife Maggie and son Paul, is facing new misdemeanor charges.

According to jail records reviewed by WCBD News 2, authorities received an arrest warrant for a charge for the disgraced attorney on 24 February.

Details of the charges have not been revealed so far.

Mr Murdaugh, 54, is accused of gunning down his wife Maggie, 52, and their son Paul, 22, on the grounds of the family estate in Islandton back on 7 June 2021.

He was arrested in July 2022 and charged with two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Read more:

Alex Murdaugh faces new misdemeanor charge as double murder trial continues

Murdaugh snaps in tense cross-examination about faking police power, stolen funds and lavish lifestyle

Sunday 26 February 2023 13:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh snapped during a tense cross-examination about his familys prominence in the low country, his alleged abuse of power, and the string of legal clients who he stole millions of dollars from.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Alex Murdaugh snaps in tense cross-examination about family power, stolen funds

Paul Murdaugh told friends to be present after boat crash

Sunday 26 February 2023 10:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh has told his murder trial about his son Pauls heartwarming words to friends in the wake of a boat crash that killed his 19-year-old friend - for which he was criminally charged.

Testifying in his own defence against charges for killing Paul and his wife Maggie at Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, South Carolina on Thursday, Mr Murdaugh recounted how a friend of his son shared in his eulogy that Paul had encouraged friends to be appreciative in life.

Andrea Blanco has the story.

Alex Murdaugh says Paul told friends to be present after boat crash killed friend

Murdaugh confesses to stealing from law firm

Sunday 26 February 2023 07:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh has confessed to stealing money from his law firm and to orchestrating a bizarre botched hitman plot  but continues to deny killing his wife Maggie and son Paul in cold blood on the familys sprawling estate.

The disgraced attorney  who is facing almost 100 charges for a multi-million-dollar financial fraud scheme  took the witness stand in his own double murder trial in the Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, South Carolina, on Thursday.

During dramatic testimony, Mr Murdaugh admitted that he had stolen funds from clients at his law firm PMPED.

I did, he said.

Read on:

Alex Murdaugh confesses to stealing from law firm in trial testimony

Watch: Tearful Alex Murdaugh declares love for wife and son

Sunday 26 February 2023 04:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Tearful Alex Murdaugh declares love for wife and son during cross-examination

Murdaugh denies searching for local restaurant after calling 911

Sunday 26 February 2023 02:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh insisted he did not intentionally search for a local restaurant online in the minutes after he reported the murders of his wife and son to 911 dispatchers.

Andrea Blanco explains what may have happened.

Alex Murdaugh denies searching for restaurant minutes after calling 911 about murders

Murdaugh admits he lied about being at kennels

Sunday 26 February 2023 00:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The disgraced attorney insisted that he is innocent of the horrific slayings but dramatically confessed that he had lied about not going to the dog kennels with Maggie and Paul on the night of 7 June 2021.

I did lie to them, he said.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Alex Murdaugh admits he lied about alibi on night of murders in bombshell testimony

Watch: Murdaugh sobs while giving testimony

Saturday 25 February 2023 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh sobs while giving testimony during double murder trial

Murdaugh on late son: I couldnt be any closer to Paw Paw

Saturday 25 February 2023 20:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Disgraced legal scion Alex Murdaugh gave a detailed account of how he spent his final day with his son Paul as he testified in his own defence at his double murder trial.

Taking the stand at the Colleton County Courthouse on Thursday, Mr Murdaugh recounted spending the day of 7 June 2021 planting fields with Paul before the 22-year-old and his wife Maggie were murdered at the familys estate in Islanton, South Carolina.

Andrea Blanco has the story.

Alex Murdaugh describes how he spent final day with son Paul before murders

How Alex Murdaughs murder trial became a circus

Saturday 25 February 2023 18:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Murder. A botched hitman plot. Mystery deaths. Millions of dollars of stolen money. Opioid addiction.

The case involving Alex Murdaugh appears to have it all when it comes to drama and plot twists.

Its then little surprise that his murder trial now going on in Walterboro, South Carolina, has captivated the public all across America.

But it should then also come as little surprise to see the high-profile case spilling out into a spectacle far beyond the testimony jurors are hearing in the courtroom.

In only one week, the trial was rocked by a bomb threat, apparently obscene gestures and bad behaviour from the Murdaugh family members, a controversial GoFundMe account and a Covid-19 outbreak among jurors.

How Alex Murdaughs murder trial became a circus

Saturday 25 February 2023 16:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Documentary brings viewers to the hearts of a traumatised community

Saturday 25 February 2023 14:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Clemence Michallon speaks to directors Jenner Furst and Julia Willoughby Nason.

Her death became a footnote in the Murdaugh murder case. Now, her story is being told

Defence witness in no doubt Murdaughs voice is in kennel video

Saturday 25 February 2023 12:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaughs high-profile murder trial took another dramatic turn on Wednesday when one of his own defence witnesses insisted he has no doubt that the disgraced attorney was at the scene of the killings.

Mark Ball, Mr Murdaughs former law firm partner at PMPED and friend of 34 years, delivered bombshell testimony in Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro, South Carolina, where he identified Mr Murdaughs voice in the video taken at the dog kennels minutes before the murders.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Moment Alex Murdaughs defence witness identifies him in kennel video

Watch: Witness infuriated by state of sloppy crime scene

Saturday 25 February 2023 10:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Murdaugh murder trial witness infuriated by state of sloppy crime scene

Murdaugh witness suggests Maggie was killed by 52 shooter  not her 64 husband

Saturday 25 February 2023 08:45 , Oliver O'Connell

A defence witness in Alex Murdaughs high-profile double-murder trial has suggested that Maggie was gunned down by a 52 shooter  and not her 64 husband.

Mike Sutton, a forensic engineer who specialises in external ballistics, took the witness stand on Tuesday as the defence fights back against the trove of circumstantial evidence laid out by the prosecution over the past four weeks.

Alex Murdaugh defence witness suggests Maggie was killed by 52 shooter

Murdaughs detailed sketch of shooter who never existed

Saturday 25 February 2023 05:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The jury in Alex Murdaughs trial has finally been presented with evidence of his botched hitman plot months after the murders of his wife and son - including a sketch of the nonexistent man he claimed shot him.

Alex Murdaughs detailed sketch of fake shooter exposed at trial

Saturday 25 February 2023 03:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Murdaugh confronted about changing story after kennel video undermines alibi

Saturday 25 February 2023 01:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh was confronted in court about his sudden and dramatic change in story about the night of his wife and sons murders  coming only after jurors were shown a bombshell video placing him at the scene and more than half a dozen witnesses identified his voice in the footage.

Rachel Sharp has the story.

Alex Murdaugh confronted about changing story

Murdaugh continues to claim wife and son were murdered because of 2019 boat wreck

Saturday 25 February 2023 00:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Alex Murdaugh has claimed that he still believes his wife and son were murdered by unknown assailants because of the 2019 fatal boat wreck.

The embattled legal scion told jurors on Friday his theory about the killers motive for shooting dead Maggie and Paul as he continued to protest his innocence of any involvement in the 7 June 2021 slayings.

I believe that boat wreck is the reason why PawPaw and Maggie were killed, he said.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Alex Murdaugh continues to claim wife and son were murdered over 2019 boat wreck

Key revelations from the Alex Murdaugh murder trial

Friday 24 February 2023 23:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Its a dramatic saga that now includes murder, a botched hitman plot, multi-million-dollar fraud schemes and a series of unexplained deaths.

The now-disbarred attorney denies the allegations and has pleaded not guilty.

Mr Murdaughs trial got underway at Colleton County Courthouse in Walterboro on 23 January.

The prosecution has now wrapped up its case with the defence beginning its own case on 17 February  where Mr Murdaugh is expected to take the stand.

Here are the key revelations from the trial so far:

Key moments from Alex Murdaugh murder trial

Moment Alex Murdaugh is accused of lying on the stand  about his big lie

Friday 24 February 2023 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

A bombshell moment unfolded at Alex Murdaughs murder trial when he was accused of lying on the stand  about why he had lied over his alibi on the night of the murders.

Rachel Sharp has the latest.

Moment Alex Murdaugh is accused of lying on the stand

Court adjourns for the weekend

Friday 24 February 2023 21:49 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Newman brings the week to a close and excuses the jury.

Harpootlian says they will have four witnesses of approximately one hour each on Monday.

Waters says he will have a few rebuttal witnesses.

It is unclear when we will hear closing arguments, but Harpootlian suggests Wednesday as a target.

Harpootlian asks if he and Griffin can split their defence closing argument. Waters objects. Judge Newman says he will look at it but is not inclined to do it.

The trial will resume at 9.30am on Monday morning.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:45 , Oliver O'Connell

After Waters again says that Murdaugh has constructed a new story for the night based around the evidence he has heard in court that disproved his original alibi, recross concludes.

Murdaugh is allowed to step down.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:44 , Oliver O'Connell

There is a brief recross from Waters.

He states that as a prosecutor and a lawyer, you had been manufacturing an alibi to cover your tracks and that by telling SLED investigators to pull the data from the phones and car he could help back that up.

Murdaugh says that is absolutely wrong.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:42 , Oliver O'Connell

Griffin rounds out redirect examination by asking Murdaugh if he murdered Maggie and Paul.

He replies he would not and adds: If I was under the pressure that theyre talking about here, I can promise you I would hurt myself before I would hurt one of them, without a doubt.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Regarding the roadside shooter, Murdaugh is asked why he lied and made up the fictitious shooter (going as far as to give a composite sketch description).

My main concern at that point was that I did not want Buster knowing that I had tried to do that [die by suicide]. That was my motivation in telling that story.

He said he intended to be gone and had not intended to survive.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:39 , Oliver O'Connell

Murdaugh says he was not trying to mislead Deputy Greene when he arrived at the scene on the night of the murders and said he had not seen Maggie and Paul for more than 90 minutes.

Griffin: Did you believe the information of whether you were there or not there (at the kennels) would advance their (SLEDs) investigation in any way?



AM: No. Because they were fine and doing good when I left there.  Avery G. Wilks (@AveryGWilks) February 24, 2023

Friday 24 February 2023 21:37 , Oliver O'Connell

Griffin asks Murdaugh whether he had Maggies phone between 9.02 and 9.06pm on 7 June 2021 while his phone recorded a lot of steps.

He says he did not have her phone with him at any time that night.

Griffin also asks why he told SLED a lot of inaccurate times about the night of the murders and whether he was lying.

Murdaugh says he was not lying and he was trying to estimate the times. He adds that he gave them instructions on how they could verify those times - i.e. through the phone and car data.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Griffin asks about where the stolen money went. Murdaugh reiterates it was for pills.

He is shown text messages from Paul from 30 May 2021 which include a picture of his sons feet which were swelling due to high blood pressure. Maggie was very worried about him and wanted him to see a doctor. It was a topic of conversation at dinner on the night of 7 June.

Friday 24 February 2023 21:17 , Oliver O'Connell

Griffin begins by establishing that Murdaugh is also facing pending charges relating to the financial crimes that have become such a major part of his murder trial.

Weve heard the defense tell and remind the jury that Murdaugh is basically going to jail forever on the financial charges no matter what this jury does on the murder counts.



Telegraphing that even if they vote to acquit, they arent letting a possible murderer onto the street.  Avery G. Wilks (@AveryGWilks) February 24, 2023

Friday 24 February 2023 21:15 , Oliver O'Connell

After a brief mid-afternoon break, court resumes.

Following that dramatic close to the cross-examination, defence attorney Jim Griffin begins redirect examination of Murdaugh.

Watch: Moment Murdaugh was confronted with lie about false alibi

Friday 24 February 2023 21:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Waters ends his cross-examination of #AlexMurdaugh by playing the body cam footage on the scene and AM lying to Sgt. Green. All the reasons AM has given for why he lied about being at the kennels hadn't happened yet , IE: distrust of SLED, law partners hadn't arrived, etc... pic.twitter.com/PfGhytAP7o  Cathy Russon (@cathyrusson) February 24, 2023

Friday 24 February 2023 21:03 , Oliver O'Connell

After Murdaugh spent today giving reasons as to why he lied about his whereabouts on the night of the murder, indicating that it all tied to the moment in the car when he was first interviewed in the aftermath.

That was when he first said he had been asleep and had not been down to the kennels, not knowing of the existence of the kennel video shot by Paul.

Waters then plays a bodycam video from Colleton Country Sheriffs Office deputy Greeene who was the first person on the scene that night.

In the video, Murdaugh tells the deputy that he had not seen Maggie and Paul for over 90 minutes, indicating he had not been down to the kennels that night - his false alibi.

Waters reminds him that he lied about his alibi because he was suspicious of SLED, his law partners had arrived and told him to have a lawyer before he spoke to the police, and because he was paranoid because he was asked about his relationships with his wife and son, and was tested for gunshot residue.

None of which had happened when he spoke to Deputy Greene that night.

Waters ends his cross-examination.
Gloria Bates and her husband Michael received a call on Thursday from the FBI -- a call theyve been waiting on for over 21 years.

"We just want to let you know that weve made an arrest in your daughters case, Private First-Class Amanda Gonzales," Gloria Bates told ABC News, recalling the conversation she had with an FBI agent.

Gonzales is Michaels stepdaughter who he helped raise since she was 4 years old.

The Department of Justice said Shannon L. Wilkerson, a former member of the armed forces who was discharged from active duty in 2004, was arrested on Thursday. He is accused of murdering 19-year-old Gonzales when she was stationed at a former U.S. Army base in Hanau, Germany, in 2001. Gonzales was working as a cook on the base. When she did not report for work, soldiers broke down the door to her barracks and found her body.

PHOTO: Amanda had a reputation for sticking up for others, her mother says. (Courtesy of Michael and Gloria Bates)

Her death was ruled a homicide by asphyxiation. She was four months pregnant, according to the FBI.

MORE: Military sexual assault victims say the system is broken

Even as the cold case dragged on for over two decades, Gloria Bates never stopped believing the killer would be caught. She and her husband spent years writing to lawmakers and shows like "Dr. Phil" and "Americas Most Wanted." Gloria Bates would visit Gonzales' grave, telling her: "I have not given up."

She last visited the cemetery and replaced the flag on Gonzales' gravesite six days before news of the arrest came. "Im still here and Im gonna still be here to finish this for you," Gloria Bates would tell her daughter.

PHOTO: Her family hopes the tragedy they suffered will help bring about changes for female soldiers in the Army. (Courtesy of Michael and Gloria Bates)

Messages of support for Gonzales' family have come in from all over the country, Michael Bates said, including from former soldiers who served with Gonzales.

The Bates say investigators told them Wilkerson attended a memorial for Gonzales at the Army base in Germany following her death.

Court documents show Wilkerson has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder. If convicted, he could face life behind bars.

PHOTO: Her mother says Amanda earned the nickname firecracker in the military for being outspoken and sticking up for others. (Courtesy of Michael and Gloria Bates)

The attorneys office representing Wilkerson declined to comment to ABC News, but said hes expected to appear at his detention hearing on March 3 in the northern district of Florida.

Story continues

The FBI did not immediately return ABC News' request for comment.

Amanda grew up in Madisonville, Texas, and had many friends, her family said. In high school she had a reputation for being caring and sticking up for her fellow classmates if they were bullied.

"She was their mother hen," Gloria Bates said.

In 2000, she surprised her family by showing up at their home with a recruiter to tell them the was joining the Army. She planned to use her G.I. Bill to pay for college and become a physical therapist for children.

PHOTO: Amandas stepfather says she wanted to use her G.I. Bill to go to college for pediatric physical therapy. (Courtesy of Michael and Gloria Bates)

That same reputation of caring for others earned her the nickname "firecracker" when she joined the military. "If she saw someone being mistreated, she would step in between and just go off," Gloria Bates said.

A few years ago, another homicide case involving a female service member caught the Bates' attention.

Vanessa Guillen, 20, was a Fort Hood Army specialist who went missing in April 2020. Her remains were found two months later near the Leon River in Benton, Texas. Investigators believe Aaron Robinson, a fellow soldier, bludgeoned Guillen to death and worked with his girlfriend Cecily Aguilar to dismember and dispose of her body.

Robinson died by suicide when confronted by police. Aguilar later pleaded guilty to multiple federal charges. Before Guillen was killed, her family said she told them she was being harassed by a superior. Her murder sparked nationwide calls for reform within the Army.

For Amandas family, the similarities were overwhelming. Michael Bates said both were around the same age, were Hispanic and had claimed to have been harassed or bullied by male soldiers in their unit.

"When I saw her on TV, I told Mike thats her, thats Amanda, Gloria Bates said.

Guillens mother reached out to Gloria and they leaned on each other for support.

"I told her dont give up, keep going, youve got to be a voice," Gloria Bates said. "Keep your head up, were going to do this. Youve got justice for your daughter, if you can do it, I know were going to do it."

MORE: Suspect in Vanessa Guillen case pleads guilty to multiple federal charges

Michael Bates said he hopes the tragedies their families have suffered can improve the conditions for female soldiers.

Gonzales' biological father died in 2021 before he could see an arrest in his daughters case. Gonzales' cousin, DeAnn Lucio, told ABC News he was eager to be with his daughter.

"I know  that they are together, and they are rejoicing in heaven because more than anything he wanted to be with her," she said.

Arrest made in 21-year-old cold case murder of pregnant teen soldier originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Boris Johnson has been accused of sparking a diplomatic rift with Joe Biden after an extraordinary f*** the Americans! outburst in the Commons.

He made the remark after being urged to support moves by Rishi Sunak and the EU to solve Brexit problems over the Northern Ireland Protocol  which are supported by the US President.

Allies of Mr Johnson have not disputed he made the remarks about the US in a heated exchange with his former Lord Chancellor Sir Robert Buckland.

It sparked a backlash from Mr Sunaks supporters who claim Mr Johnson and his allies are determined to wreck the PMs post-Brexit deal out of spite.

There are also claims that his f*** the Americans! comment could hit Mr Johnsons hopes of earning a fortune in America on the lecture circuit.

He was paid 277,000 for a speech to a New York bank in November and is in talks with agents to attend further money-spinning events in the US. Insiders say this could be damaged if he is seen by patriotic Americans as anti-US.

The controversy is a repeat of another Brexit rant by Mr Johnson in 2018 when he reportedly said f*** business! in his days as foreign secretary.

He used the words at a Foreign Office reception to mark the Queens birthday after being told businesses were opposed to his proposed so-called hard Brexit. His response was condemned as wildly irresponsible by leading business figures.

His f*** the Americans! remark was in response to Mr Buckland, who had told him it was vital to support Mr Sunaks drive to resolve the Northern Ireland Protocol, partly to smooth relations with the White House.

A witness to the exchange, which happened when Mr Johnson and Sir Robert were sitting close to each other in the Commons debating chamber, said: Robert and Boris were discussing the protocol and Robert said, Its vital you back it Boris, its a good outcome and with the US state visit coming up and the need to get a trade deal with them it will help keep us onside with the Americans. Boris said f*** the Americans!

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A source close to the former prime minister said the jibe was part of a jocular conversation in the chamber with Robert Buckland that someone evidently misunderstood, adding: That is not language we would use.

One senior Tory figure, a former minister, told The Independent: Once youve said f*** business and f*** the Americans you might as well stop being a Conservative and just f*** off yourself.

They added: The Americans will obviously be offended by that. This will put his reputation in the US in freefall the same it is in the UK.

Boris Johnson has been accused of sparking a rift with the US President over his f*** Amercia remarks

Malcolm Rifkind, former Tory foreign secretary, also said the former PMs unhelpful f*** the Americans were standard Johnson  urging MPs to ignore him and back what appeared to be a pretty impressive deal.

He told The Independent: As Johnson was the significant degree the cause of the problem by signing the protocol, I think hes the last person who should be trying to damage what appears to be the pretty impressive efforts to get an alternative. Its unfortunate that he appears to be behaving in a negative way about the efforts of Rishi Sunak.

David Davis told The Independent that Mr Johnsons remarks were Boris being Boris as he urged all colleagues to focus on the deal, rather than any attempts to undermine Mr Sunak. This is too important to be influenced intra-party politics.

The former Brexit secretary  who said his instinct was to support a deal  added: If we come to that preserves the Good Friday Agreement and is comes close to meeting the DUPs seven tests, I dont think the Americans will object.

Mr Bidens administration has made it clear it will not sign a post-Brexit trade deal with the UK until key political disputes in Ulster, including the protocol, which covers arrangements for imports and exports, have been defused.

Failure to do so could even stop Mr Biden, who has Irish roots, taking part in a rumoured visit to Northern Ireland in April to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, a senior US envoy suggested recently.

Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak are at odds on the protocol (PA Wire)

The row comes as Mr Sunak tries to head off a Tory revolt led by Mr Johnsons supporters against his Northern Ireland deal.

Hardline Brexiteers have warned that up to 100 Tory MPs could oppose the new post-Brexit trading arrangements in a potential vote amid warnings of a potential Tory civil war.

While the prime minister is understood to have convinced prominent pro-Brexit MPs of the merits of his deal with Brussels, a rebellion of even 40 Tory MPs would leave him in the embarrassing position of relying on Labour get it through.

The PM is on the cusp of securing new Brexit terms with the EU, according to his deputy Dominic Raab. Mr Raab on Sunday said a deal would be announced in days, not weeks.

He said there had been a paradigm shift in the approach from Brussels, hinting that talks had wielded changes on customs checks, as well as dealing with Unionists concerns around Northern Ireland not having a say in EU rules that impact on the region.

Mr Raab, asked on Sky News Sophy Ridge On Sunday programme whether a deal could be unveiled as soon as Monday, replied: I think there is real progress.

Rishi Sunak under pressure to get deal through parliament (REUTERS)

But Mark Francois, chairman of the Tory partys European Research Group (ERG), said parliament should not be rushed on the issue, and made clear group would not back the deal unless EU law is expunged in Northern Ireland.

The former minister told the programme: I mean, if I were advising the prime minister, my honest advice to him would be: dont try to bounce parliament next week because that is likely to go badly wrong.

So, if theyve got a deal theyre proud of, show us the text. Let us run it by our lawyers. Let us fully understand what it means. Then, at that point, we might be ready to vote on it, but it would be a very bad idea.

Mr Francois said the government would have to have a bill, and warned the prime minister not to try avoiding a vote altogether. For the government to try and bludgeon this through the House of Commons without a vote of any kind would be incredibly unwise, he added.

Meanwhile, Mr Sunak strongly suggested he would ditch the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill  the legislation that would hand the UK unilateral power to rip up the protocol despite warnings of a trade war.

Mr Johnson  accused on trying to use the Brexit issue to bring down Mr Sunak by ex-chancellor George Osborne and others  has urged Mr Sunak to push on with the protocol bill, saying it would be a great mistake to ditch the legislation introduced during his time at No 10.

But Mr Sunak appeared to offer a pointed message to his predecessor over the intervention  telling the Sunday Times everyone should recognise that this is not ... about me, this is not about third parties or anyone else.
CIA Director William Burns said he communicated in a meeting with Russias spy chief the serious consequences that would follow if Moscow ever used a nuclear weapon, a warning that Burns said his Russian counterpart understood.

What [President Biden] asked me to do, which was to make clear to [Sergey] Naryshkin, and through him to President Putin, the serious consequences should Russia ever choose to use a nuclear weapon of any kind, Burns said in an interview with CBSs Face The Nation. I think Naryshkin understood the seriousness of that issue and I think President Putin has understood it as well.

Burns met with Naryshkin three months ago, laying down the warning to the Russians about the use of nuclear weapons in the midst of the countrys war with Ukraine.

Since then, Russia has pulled itself out of an agreement with the U.S. that placed limits on the capacity of each countrys nuclear arsenal, with Putin vowing to strengthen Russias nuclear weapons.

Burns said on CBS that the meeting with Naryshkin was pretty dispiriting, describing the Russian as defiant and displaying cockiness.

There was a very defiant attitude on the part of Mr. Naryshkin, Burns said. A sense of cockiness and hubris, in sense reflecting Putins own view  that he can make time work for him, that he believes he can grind down Ukrainians, that he can wear down our European allies, that political fatigue will eventually set in.

Burns also said he thinks Putin believes that eventually U.S. and western attention will turn to another issue, giving him the opportunity in the long run to win the war.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
And ... stockings?

Getty Images

Mark your calendars for March 3. That's when Netflix's Next in Fashion will arrive with a brand-new season  and a shiny new co-host Gigi Hadid who will star alongside returning lead Tan France. Today, as she promoted the new season in New York City, Hadid wore a Brandon Maxwell outfit that brought together some very business-casual staples with an unexpected addition: a pair of Bermuda shorts.

Hadid's monochrome outfit included all-beige everything, including a sleek longline blazer that she wore over an open button-up that showed off the tiniest bit of skin. She added long Bermuda shorts, which she layered over a pair of sheer black stockings. She finished the look with bold black sunglasses, jewelry from EERA and Rainbow K, and a pair of super-pointy pumps in a similar beige-y grey color. She wore her hair slicked back into a tight bun. The outfit was for an appearance on the Today show.

Getty Images

Related:Gigi Hadid Wants Her Cashmere Designs to Be Your Future Family Heirlooms

Earlier in the day, she wore an all-leather outfit and let her hair down, literally. That outfit was similarly monochromatic, only she swapped the beige for black leather. For that event, she wore skin-tight black pants and tall, heeled boots with a bomber-style jacket and fingerless gloves. She added a shimmering choker-length necklace and the same sunglasses to finish off the stealthy, Matrix-style look.



According to Netflix, the show is a "high-stakes design competition series that embraces the fun in fashion." A group of emerging designers will "compete for the chance to walk away with a prize of $200,000 and the chance to share their designs with the world."



For more InStyle news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on InStyle.
Jansen Panettiere died of an enlarged heart, his family shared.

A cause of death has been revealed for Hayden Panettiere's brother Jansen.

In a statement to ABC News, the Panettiere family shared the medical examiner "reported Jansen's sudden passing was due to cardiomegaly (enlarged heart), coupled with aortic valve complications."

"We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of love and support towards our family as we navigate this unthinkable loss, and ask that we be gifted our privacy during this time of mourning," the statement continued. "We love you so much Jansen and you will be in our hearts forever."

The family also paid tribute to the late actor, writing, "Jansens heart could be seen in his eyes, and his charm in his brilliant, engaging smile; his soul in his masterful and revealing paintings, and the joy of life in his dry wit."

They added, "His charisma, warmth, compassion for others, and his creative spirit will live forever in our hearts and in the hearts of all whom he encountered."

Jansen died on Sunday, Feb. 19, at home in New York. The actor had followed his older sister's footsteps, with roles in Even Stevens, The Walking Dead, and Everybody Hates Chris. He also appeared alongside his sister in Tiger Cruise, the 2004 Disney Channel Original Movie that gave Hayden her breakout role.

Besides being an actor, Jansen was a talented artist. Before his passing, he made a collection of clothing featuring his art. Three percent of all purchases went to non-profit organization #WeAreAllUkrainians, that provides relief to Ukrainian citizens and gives support to Ukrainian refugees in Germany.
The SI Swimsuit model is a three-time cover star.

Kate Upton was photographed by Yu Tsai in Fiji. Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Kate Upton has been featured on the cover of the SI Swimsuit Issue three times over a span of five years. She has also inspired a number of other younger models who are now a part of the SI Swimsuit family.

After being named Rookie of the Year in 2011, Upton landed the cover in 12 (Australia) and 13 (Antarctica). She was photographed by James Macari in zero gravity for an incredibly memorable SI Swimsuit photo shoot in 2014.

The 30-year-old landed the cover again in 2017, the same year she married New York Mets pitcher Justin Verlander. Upton posed for the magazine again in 18 in Aruba, and she and Verlander welcomed their daughter, Genevieve, in November of that year.

Despite being one of the best-known SI Swimsuit models, Upton knows she is not perfect, and neither is her relationship with loving her body at all times.

Im still not confident in a bathing suit. Thats why you eat healthy and work out, to feel your best. You always have struggles, she said in a 2017 interview with Yahoo. Its not like I always feel my best. Everybody has moments where they dont feel confident in a bikini. Its what were striving for: self-love. We work our way up. When I dont feel my best, thats OK. Im not trying to be fit for a number on a scale. Whenever Im happiest, I try to maintain that.

Take a look at some of our favorite photos from Uptons cover photo shoot with photographer Yu Tsai in Fiji.

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Yu Tsai/Sports Illustrated

Make sure to follow SI Swimsuit on YouTube!
This article originally appeared on Velo News

JEBEL HAFEET, UAE (VN) - Larry Warbasse is cherishing being back in the bunch after a season sunk by a string of setbacks.

The former U.S. national champion last month clicked back into his Ag2r-Citroen race cleats for the first time in six months.

"Last year was a rough season. Every time I got going, something else happened. It was tough," Warbasse told VeloNews at the UAE Tour. "I was pretty excited to start racing again this year - it feels like it's been a while."

Warbasse saw just 36 days of racing last year in the Michigan-native's own annus horribilis.

A crash in Liege-Bastogne-Liege put him out for two weeks. A bout with COVID at Tour de Suisse lost him more time. A broken pelvis sustained at the Tour de Wallonie was the final nail in the coffin of his 2022 calendar.

"I would have periods where I got into some really good form in training, then something would happen, and I'd just have to start over," Warbasse said in Abu Dhabi earlier this week.

"Then I thought I was going to race at the end of the year after I broke my pelvis, but the team decided it was better not to take the risk. So that was too bad. I knew I was in good shape."

Also read: Warbasse breaks pelvis, out for at least a month

Warbasse counted himself lucky while he sat on the sideline that he knew his French squad wanted to keep him on the books for 2023. But a pro out of the peloton is not a happy pro.

"I was in a contract year, but I knew from early that the team wanted to keep me, so it wasnt a tonne of stress in that respect. But it was difficult for me personally. I want to perform for myself more than anyone else," Warbasse said.

"I think its the same for a lot of cyclists. We have the pressure to perform from the team and to get a contract and stuff, but above all, we want to perform for ourselves. You become like a high-level athlete because you have that motivation internally."

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Warbasse rides into a busy program for his 11th pro season. Paris-Nice, Milan-San Remo, the Ardennes, and the Giro d'Italia highlight the 32-year-old's tentative calendar.

Although his long-sought Tour de France debut may be made to wait one more year, for now, Warbasse is just glad to be back on the bike.

"You always have like a little bit of anxiety when you don't race for a long time. You know you have good numbers and training's going well, but a race is always a different thing," he said. "Of course, usually it works out just fine, but there's always that concern."

Warbasse had no need to be worried. Some 160km+ out front as last survivor from the break on the Emirati tour's sixth stage Saturday saw him begin his quest to make up lost time.

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.
Most Moldovan citizens believe Chisinau should stay neutral on the events in Ukraine, according to the Sociopolitical Barometer February 2023 poll carried out by IMAS for Public Media.

According to the poll results presented in Chisinau on Monday, 73% of the respondents said the best decision for Moldova in this situation is to maintain neutrality, whereas 20% said the country needs to join some military alliance.

The poll showed that 60% of the respondents are concerned about the possibility of the Ukraine conflict spreading to the territory of the republic and 29% said they do not think the military action will spread to Moldova.

As for the conflict outcome in Ukraine, 48% of the respondents said the military action should stop as soon as possible, even if that envisages territorial concessions on Kiev's part. Twenty-four percent of the respondents said Ukraine should win, and the same percentage (24%) said they disagree with both statements.

Ninety-one percent of the respondents said the Moldovan army is incapable of defending the country. At the same time, 62% of the respondents disagree with the increase of the Defense Ministry's budget and 34% said they support this decision. Forty-one percent of the respondents said they believe the number of Moldova's Armed Forces should increase, 37% said it should stay unchanged, and 12% said it should decrease.

Fifty-five percent of the respondents spoke against Moldova's exit of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) (32% said they are for it), 69% said they are against severing economic ties with Russia (24% said they are for it), and 70% said they are against severing diplomatic relations with Russia (22% said they are for it).

The poll was conducted on February 6-23. It surveys 1,100 respondents, and the margin of error is three percent.
For animal service centers, kitten season starts in the spring as the days get longer.

LAS CRUCES  The Mesilla Valley Mall will soon be home to Las Cruces first cat cafe, featuring adoptable animals and fun beverages.

Owners of El Pasos Sun City Kitty are in the process of opening a second location, which will be called Chile City Kitty in a nod to New Mexicos beloved peppers. Co-owner Megan Oslund said the goal is to open in Las Cruces by late April, coinciding with the original locations first anniversary.

The business takes appointments for 30-minute or one-hour sessions with the cats, or people can walk in and enjoy the cat lounge. The cafe is separated from the cat lounge and offers coffees, teas and seasonal drinks.

Weve had a lot of really successful adoptions. Weve taken a lot of pressure off of El Paso Animal Services, which has been great, Oslund said. Its just something that weve enjoyed a lot and so we wanted to do a second (cafe) pretty much immediately.

Customers are invited to interact with cats available for adoption in a fun, safe environment. Cats are rescued from El Paso Animal Services Center, reducing the number of cats housed at the shelter.

Oslund said the owners already have relationships with several Trap, Neuter, Release (TNR) programs in Las Cruces. These partnerships will help address the areas population of feral cats. She added that working with Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley would be ideal, but plans are not yet in place.

A feral cat dips into a irrigation ditch in Las Cruces on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021.

We can only house 12 to 15 cats at a time max (in El Paso) and we have adopted out nearly 100 cats this year, so we have about a full turnover rate every month, Oslund said.

She added that the space in the Mesilla Valley Mall is about 40% larger than the original location meaning they should be able to house an added four to five cats at a time.

Chile City Kitty is moving into the space formerly occupied by Regis Hairstylist, right next to Womens Dillards. The plan is to start hiring in early April.

Its something new and its innovative and exciting, so I think they will be a good fit for our mall, said Loretta Pina, general manager of the Mesilla Valley Mall.

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There are only three vacant tenant spaces inside the mall, Pina added, leaving the Mesilla Valley Mall at 95% capacity. She said this level of occupancy has likely not been seen since the early 1990s and that she is hoping to fill all the last spaces within the year.

Theres always something new to see here, so Im glad that people are coming back and kind of establishing the mall as a place to come and socialize and shop and exercise, she said. Its what I was always hoping to see and so I feel like were getting there.

More information about Sun City Kitty can be found on their website, suncitykitty.com.

Others are reading:

Leah Romero is the trending reporter at the Las Cruces Sun-News and can be reached at 575-418-3442, LRomero@lcsun-news.com or @rromero_leah on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Mesilla Valley Mall welcoming El Paso-based cat cafe this spring. Here's what we know.
Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) slammed President Biden for his approach toward relations with China on Sunday, accusing him of attempting to appease Beijing.

All that Biden does is pacify China, Scott told John Catsimatidis on WABCs Cats Roundtable, adding, I dont know what it is, but this is a guy who wont stand up to dictators around the world.

Scotts comments echoed similar criticisms that he levied at the Biden administration earlier this week.

Communist China has chosen to be our enemy, he said in a tweet on Thursday. The CCP wants to destroy our way of life, and @JoeBiden shows nothing but weak appeasement. The American people deserve a leader in Washington who stands up to evil regimes and puts America first.

U.S.-China relations have become increasingly strained in recent weeks, after a suspected Chinese spy balloon traveled over the U.S. in early February and reportedly surveilled strategic sites.

The balloon drama was followed by Secretary of State Antony Blinkens allegations last weekend that China was strongly considering providing Russia with lethal aid in its war against Ukraine. Several other top U.S. officials have reiterated the accusations in recent days and warned of significant consequences if China were to take such a step.

Amid the concerns about China, the U.S. military is reportedly planning to increase its presence in Taiwan by between 100 and 200 troops  a move that Scott voiced support for.

Im glad were taking the threat Communist China poses to Taiwan seriously, but more must be done, he said in a tweet on Thursday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Remember how everyone lost it when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle moved to Calif? Well, everyone has been slowly losing it over the prospect of Princess Eugenie being their neighbor, and while many brushed it off as a rumor, theres more to the story.

In photos obtained by Town & Country, Eugenie was just seen in a Frieze LA Preview in Santa Monica only a few days ago. For those that dont know what this is, its an art exhibit, and with Eugenie previously working with the London art gallery Hauser & Wirth for years, it makes sense that shed be in the know on all things art.

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However, the fact that Santa Monica is only a two-hour drive away from where Harry and Meghan are, has raised a lot of eyebrows. Many are wondering, Could this move really be happening? Was she viewing houses too? Only time will tell, but this secret Calif visit definitely solidifies that Eugenies US move could be on the table.

In case you missed it: friends and sources previously told DailyMail that Harry and Meghan have been sending Eugenie details of homes near them in Calif. Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank split their time from Portugal (for his job) and Britain, where they stay at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. However, with news of a second child on the way, many have been speculating that the soon-to-be family of four may want to be closer to Eugenies beloved cousin and his family.

Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand

Click here to read the full article.

Image: Dey Street Books - Credit: Dey Street Books.

Dey Street Books.

From headlines to word-of-mouth, we all think we know Prince Harry and Meghan Markles true story. But theres one book that takes longtime royal fans even more in-depth, revealing stories about the couple we only thought we knew. Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan details the couples romance, wedding, the birth of their first child, and their decision to take a step back from royal duties. Authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand take us far beyond the picture-perfect moments to the tough decisions this couple had to make in order to preserve their relationship and happiness. With this book, longtime royal fans may learn more about Harry and Meghans new path outside of the royal family.

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Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand

Price: $11.19

Buy Now

Click here to see Meghan Markle and Prince Harrys complete relationship timeline.



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Siberian Husky Puppy Rescued From Hot Car at Casino Finds Forever Home

siberian husky puppy rescued

Photo Credit: Andre Sezar / 500px / Getty Images

The luck of a Siberian Husky puppy has changed! Whereas Dutchess was once abandoned in a car in a casino parking lot with her mouth taped shut, she has now been adopted and is settling into her forever home.

Siberian Husky Puppy Rescued From Hot Car

Last July, the then 3-month-old pup was discovered in a locked car on the top floor of a parking garage in Las Vegas. Her mouth was covered in electrical tape. Passersby contacted local police, as the temperature that afternoon hit a sweltering 113 degrees.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police were dispatched to the scene. Officer Rybacki was able to rescue the canine through the cars sunroof. The dog had been without air conditioning, water, and food for over two hours. The dog owner, who was found gambling inside a casino, was later charged.

Nevada animal shelter The Animal Foundation was able to find the puppy a new home within a month.

Just recently, the shelter gave social media followers an update, informing them that the puppy was loving her new life in a family with two kids and several animal companions.

She lives with a wonderful family who adores her, the shelter shared on Instagram last week. She sneaks into the childrens beds and enjoys hanging out with her new fur siblings.

Shes also quite the traveler, making her way all over Nevada, California, and Arizona, never missing a chance to play in the snow, the shelters post continued. Talk about a good life.

A Pictures Worth 1,000 Words

In the shelters Instagram post, Dutchesss happy life is on display in a carousel of pics, including shots of the dog decked out in Miami Dolphins merch, soaking in a fountain, playing outdoors in the snow, rolling on a rug, and sharing living space with resident cats.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Animal Foundation (@theanimalfoundation)



Instagram followers were overjoyed by the social media update.

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Amazing!! Thank you to the officer who saved her and thank you to the animal foundation for caring for her!! one wrote.

Im beyond HAPPY she has been placed in a loving home with such a caring, wonderful family, that she so DESERVES! another cheered.

Thank you to the angels who rescued her and the wonderful family giving her the best life, a third offered.

May Dutchess enjoy many more years of fun and family.

The post Siberian Husky Puppy Rescued From Hot Car at Casino Finds Forever Home appeared first on DogTime.
South Dakota hit a record low unemployment rate for 2022. The year-average was 2.3%, according to data from the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR).

But while this set a new record in our states history, at least since the department has been keeping track as far back as 1990, South Dakota traditionally has low unemployment rates, especially compared to other states.

Gov. Kristi Noem touted the states economic strength in a press release last week.

South Dakotas jobs market is thriving, she said. We are setting an example of the power of the American work ethic. The careers of the future are available right here. Thanks to our incredible economic strength, fewer South Dakotans than ever are having to rely on unemployment benefits to keep food on the table for their families.

More:'Being short staffed is the new pandemic': Sioux Falls businesses struggling to fill open positions

South Dakota staying ahead of the unemployment curve

The national average for 2022 was a 3.6% rate, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

South Dakota traditionally has a lower unemployment rate than the rest of the country, said Mike Allgrunn, an economics professor at the University of South Dakota. This is low, even for South Dakota. But its not all that surprising.

In December 2022, specifically, the national unemployment rate was 3.5%, compared to South Dakotas unemployment rate of 2.3%, according to the DLR.

Gov. Kristi Noem signs a bill about employee contribution rates into law in the Capitol Building on Feb. 1. It's the first law signed into the books during the 2023 Legislative Session.

Sioux Falls had a rate of 1.9% in December, and the lowest single month for the state was September 2022, when the rate was 1.8%.

Obviously, with COVID, we saw record high unemployment rates. We're coming off of that high and coming down to a new low as our economy is booming right now, Allgrunn said. There's lots of pent-up demand that's still working its way through our labor force, and participation is relatively high. But its really sort of a two-edged sword.

Labor market participation on a steady decline

Allgrunn said while low unemployment is great for people and efficient for our economy, it leaves us with a tight labor market in the sense that employers are struggling to find workers.

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In some sense, theres some economic growth potential we're leaving on the table," he said. "There's productive capacity that we can still use, but we just can't find the workers to do it."

More:Gov. Kristi Noem signs first bill of 2023 into law, creating unemployment insurance tax cut

South Dakota and the country as a whole hit a peak in 2000 for how many eligible workers were participating in the labor market, Allgrunn said.

In South Dakota, the labor force participation rate stayed around 73% in 2000, meaning seven out of 10 people ages 16 or older were employed or actively seeking work, according to the DOL. The average unemployment rate at the time was also 2.5%, which was the previous record low, according to the DLR.

A chart from the South Dakota Department of Labor & Regulation shows the monthly unemployment rate in South Dakota from January 1990 to December 2022.

The number of people in the labor market has been on steady decline since then, but generally speaking, this was expected, Allgrunn said.

Part of the reason is because there have been many baby boomers leaving the workforce as they get older, and theres been a trend of young people not entering the workforce as early, often because of education or simply staying with their parents for longer.

South Dakota's labor force participation rate hit its all-time low in 2020 and is now at about 68.6%, according to the DOL, but Allgrunn thinks it could start to increase again.

It probably wont reach the levels we saw in 2000, but it is possible to see that go up, he said.

And a recession might have something to do with it.

More:Sioux Falls approves $3.3M in pay increases, inflationary adjustments for some city employees

South Dakota's current labor market could fare better in a recession

Some economists speculate the United States could be headed for one, although the data can tell conflicting stories.

Labor force participations rates could increase as some people will want to join the labor force during the recession to help their household out, Allgrunn said. But at the same time, unemployment rates could also go up.

Showplace Cabinetry employees build cabinets on Friday, August 26, 2022, at their factory in Harrisburg.

Generally speaking, unemployment increases during recessions, he said. But it depends on how big the recession is and how long it goes on.  And the timing of when a recession hits and when unemployment rates increase also dont line up exactly.

Allgrunn said unemployment rates are most likely to increase at the tail end of a recession if some of the people who are trying to enter the labor force havent found a job yet.

But in South Dakota at least, I dont expect unemployment rates to go a whole lot higher in the event there is a recession just because there are so many job openings available, Allgrunn said.

Of course, its not always as simple as giving the unemployed people those jobs. But I think even if we do see some slowdown in economic activity, theres still room for a lot of people to find jobs and I wouldnt expect large increases in unemployment throughout the rest of the year.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: South Dakota saw record unemployment in 2022. Here's what that means.
Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) on Sunday warned that the U.S. could sanction China if it moves to provide lethal aid to Russia in its war on Ukraine as some officials have suggested in recent days.

China needs to know there will be consequences. So, weve isolated Russia economically. We can do the same thing in regards to sanctions against China, Cardin said on Fox News Sunday.

China needs to understand they need to be on the right side of history here. And an attack on the sovereignty of an independent state, what Russia has done as a war of aggression and China should be with us in the overwhelming majority of the world to speak out.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week warned that China is considering sending lethal aid Russias way, potentially including ammunition and weapons as Russia readies a renewed counteroffensive.

On Thursday, the United Nations General Assembly voted to adopt a resolution calling for the Russian military to withdraw from Ukraine, with China abstaining.

The vote in the United States Security Council  General Assembly indicated the wide understanding of who is responsible for this war. China sat on the sidelines on that vote. That was wrong. But clearly, they should be on the right side of history, Cardin said Sunday.

White House officials have so far declined to go into specifics on how the U.S. would respond if China moved to provide the lethal aid, but have said the U.S. has communicated warnings to Beijing.

President Biden on Friday underscored that theres no evidence so far that China is siding with Russia, but said he spoke about the matter with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

I had a long conversation with Xi about this in the summer. And I said, Look, this is not a threat. Its just a statement. When, in fact, Europeans saw what was happening, and Americans saw whats happening in Russia  in Europe, guess what? Six hundred corporations pulled out. They left. They didnt want to be associated, Biden said.

I said, You told me that the future of China rests on investment from the Western world. And that matters. I said, Id just keep on eye that. Theres no evidence hes done it yet.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan (R) on Sunday said the Biden administration needs to be clearer about whether U.S. support for Ukraine extends to Russian-occupied Crimea.

I think they should be more clear. I think it should be all the territorial integrity of the entire country, which includes Crimea. And so yes, I think they need more clarity on that, and the national security adviser didnt demonstrate it in his interview with you today, Sullivan said on NBC Newss Meet the Press.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan appeared before the Alaska senator on the program and sidestepped questions about whether the U.S. would support Kyivs efforts to retake annexed Crimea.

The Biden adviser said that the administration will address the question of Crimea further down the road and stressed that Ukraine should focus on taking back territory in the south and east.

In the subsequent interview, Sullivan, the Alaska senator, said he thought the national security adviser demonstrated unease when pressed on the question.

Sullivan affirmed theres a strong contingent of Republicans who support U.S. aid to Ukraine, but argued there are legitimate criticisms of this administrations conduct of supporting the Ukrainians. The Biden administration recently announced it would equip Kyiv with battle tanks, but hasnt yet answered calls to send over F-16 fighter jets.

Jake Sullivan is talking about, Well, were not going to do F-16s today. Thats for another time, not right now. That has been a pattern with this administration from the beginning, where they have slow rolled critical military weapons systems, Sullivan said.

The senator argued that now that we are in this battle, its strongly in our interest to continue to support the Ukrainians to restore their territorial integrity and their sovereignty without committing US forces.

Russias war on Ukraine crossed its one-year mark last week, days after President Biden made a surprise visit to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv and reaffirm continued U.S. support, pledging another $500 million in aid.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
In a frustrating disappointment, the launch of a SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule carrying a four-man crew bound for the International Space Station was called off with less than three minutes to go early Monday because of trouble with a system used to ignite the Falcon 9's first stage engines.

Crew-6 commander Stephen Bowen, Warren "Woody" Hoburg, cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev and Emerati astronaut Sultan Alneyadi, the first Arab assigned to a long-duration station flight, took the scrub in stride and patiently waited inside the spacecraft while the rocket's propellants were drained away.

SpaceX's closeout team then returned to the pad, opened the capsule's side hatch and helped the crew climb out of the vehicle for the drive back to NASA crew quarters. It was the first non weather-related launch scrub for a Crew Dragon spacecraft since the ferry ships began carrying astronauts to the space station in 2020.

The scrub was triggered by a problem with the engine igniter fluid, a chemical known as triethylaluminum triethylboron, or "TEA-TEB," that reacts with liquid oxygen to spin up the Falcon 9's nine first stage engines.

If the problem can be resolved in time, NASA and SpaceX will make another attempt to launch the Crew-6 mission at 12:34 a.m. EST Thursday. Mission managers passed up a Tuesday launch try because of expected bad weather and Wednesday was ruled out because of space station rendezvous requirements.

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with the companys Crew Dragon spacecraft vents fuel prior to a scrubbed launch from pad 39A for the Crew-6 mission at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla. on Feb. 27, 2023. / Credit: CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images

Along with disappointing the crew, the scrub also spoiled a chance for SpaceX to launch three Falcon 9s in just 13 hours with afternoon launches planned in Florida and California to put two batches of Starlink internet satellites into orbit. Those flights appeared to remain on schedule, but bad weather threatened the California launch.

Whenever Crew-6 takes off, Bowen and company will be welcomed aboard the station by Crew-5 commander Nicole Mann, Josh Cassada, Japanese astronaut Koichi Wakata and cosmonaut Anna Kikina, the first Russian to launch aboard a Crew Dragon. They arrived at the station last October and plan to return to Earth around March 6 to close out a 151-day mission.

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Also welcoming the Crew-6 fliers will be Sergey Prokopyev, Dmitri Petelin and NASA astronaut Frank Rubio. They launched to the lab last September and originally planned to fly home in March.

But their Soyuz MS-22 ferry ship was crippled December 14 when a presumed micrometeoroid ruptured a coolant line. After an analysis, Russian engineers concluded the spacecraft could not safely be used again because of the possibility sensitive systems could overheat.

Instead, a replacement Soyuz -- MS-23 -- was launched last Thursday, carrying equipment and supplies instead of a crew. The spacecraft successfully docked with the station Saturday night, providing Prokopyev and his crewmates with a safe ride home.

But to get the crew rotation schedule back on track, the trio will have to spend an additional six months in space, coming home this fall after a full year in orbit. They'll share the station with Crew 6 for most of that time.

Alneyadi, a father of six, is the second Emerati to fly in space but the first named to a full-duration six-month stay aboard the station. During his expedition, two Saudi fliers will visit the lab complex for about a week as part of a commercial mission managed by Houston-based Axiom Space.

"I think it's going to be really interesting," Alneyadi said after arriving at the Kennedy Space Center last week. "It's for the sake of science, for the sake of spreading the knowledge about how important it is to fly (in space) and to push the boundaries of exploration, not only in the leading countries.

"Our region is also thirsty to learn more. And I think we will be ambassadors in these missions. Hopefully, we can come back with knowledge and share whatever we learn with everybody."

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Kuleba on creation of special tribunal on Russias aggression against Ukraine: Its necessary to eliminate causes, not just symptoms

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has called for support for the special tribunal for the crime of aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, opening a special ministerial event on the sidelines of the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council "Aggression against Ukraine: Impact on Human rights and the humanitarian situation in Ukraine and the world" on Monday.

According to the press service of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, 55 countries took part in the event, including Belgium, Denmark, Iceland, Costa Rica, Liechtenstein, Marshall Islands, Slovenia, France, Sweden at the level of foreign ministers.

"We do not stop working for a moment on the creation of a special tribunal to bring to justice the political and military leadership of Russia and their henchmen for the crime of aggression against Ukraine. All the atrocities of the Russians are derived from it. It is necessary to eliminate the causes, not just the symptoms," Kuleba said.

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister also drew attention to numerous violations by Russians of international humanitarian law and human rights, war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, in particular the abduction of Ukrainian children and their forced adoption in Russian families. "Russia embodies, perhaps, the largest child abduction operation in modern history. The Convention on the Prevention of Genocide clearly defines this as a crime of genocide. These children need immediate protection and return home. All Russian criminals involved in this operation should be held accountable for their participation in the genocide," the Minister stressed.

Kuleba also called on the member states of the UN Human Rights Council to extend the mandate of the UN International Independent Commission to Investigate Violations in Ukraine. "The International Independent Commission of the United Nations documents evidence of large-scale and systemic violations of human rights by Russia, war crimes, crimes against humanity, which will be used in future international trials. The continuation of the mandate will be a significant contribution to ensuring justice," he stressed.

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister expressed gratitude to the UN and other international organizations and their donors for helping Ukrainians during the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.

On January 26, representatives of 21 states gathered in Prague for the founding meeting of the Coalition to create a special tribunal, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine to work out the parameters for bringing the political and military leadership of the Russian Federation to justice for the crime of aggression against our state. On February 22, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine gathered 45 states for a high-level UN event dedicated to human rights violations during the Russian aggression, one of the key topics of which was the creation of a special tribunal.
Experts say to avoid being scammed you should never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

The last of seven Columbus-area defendants convicted of laundering nearly $12 million for online romance scammers in Ghana was sentenced Monday in U.S. District Court in Columbus.

Kwame O. Yeboah, 38, of Columbus, was sentenced by a federal judge to one year and six months in prison and three years of supervised release for laundering more than $1.7 million through his Columbus restaurant's bank accounts. The judge also ordered Yeboah and two of his codefendants to jointly pay $1.7 million in restitution.

In announcing the case's conclusion, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio Kenneth Parker's office said the seven defendants stole a total $11.8 million from the scam victims and moved the funds from the U.S. to Ghana.

Past reporting:Columbus man pleads guilty to money laundering as part of online romance scam

Scammers, whom court documents say resided in Ghana, created fake profiles on online dating sites and cultivated relationships with men and women across the United States. After the perpetrators established relationships and gained their victims' trust, they asked for money to invest in gold or diamond mines or for financial or legal troubles, according to court documents.

In one case, an individual sent scammers $5 million over a period of a year, according to court documents.

"The fraudsters in Ghana had a problem: victims were willing to send them money, totaling millions of dollars, but the funds could not be sent directly to the fraudsters," said Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter K. Glenn-Applegate in a court document. "Financial institutions block large wires from the United States to Ghana, which banks regard as a high-risk jurisdiction."

So the scammers would direct their victims to send money to accounts associated with the American defendants in this case, who would move around the money in a way that hid the scheme from law enforcement and banks before ultimately moving the money to Ghana, according to federal prosecutors.

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The other defendants previously convicted in this case and their sentences are as follows:

Robert K. Asante, 39, of Canal Winchester: five years in prison

Eric Ahiekpor, 52, of Lewis Center: three years in prison

Edward Amankwah, 45, of Westerville: four years in prison

Uriah Lamdul, 30, of Columbus: two years in prison

Mohamed Toure, 28, of Columbus: one year and six months in prison

Alexis Wellington, 32, of Canal Winchester: probation

Asante organized and led the scheme, according to federal prosecutors.

Yeboah owned and operated the Twist Lounge & Grill on Columbus' North Side, and at first thought Asante and Ahiekpor were investing in his business, according to a sentencing memo filed with the court by Yeboah's defense attorney, Keith Yeazel.

Yeboah funneled money from the scheme through his business accounts without initially realizing where the money came from, according to Yeazel.

"Once Kwame discovered the funds were derived from romance scams, he confronted Asante and Ahiekpor," Yeazel said. "Nonetheless, Kwame continued to conduct business with Asante and Ahiekpor, out of fear of being prosecuted because his accounts and businesses were now associated with criminal activity."

Due to the scheme, the Twist Lounge & Grill lost money and was closed, according to the memo.

According to the U.S. Attorney's office in Columbus, Toure was also convicted and sentenced for money laundering as part of an unrelated scheme that involved a fraudulent application for a federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), a pandemic-era program operated by the U.S. Small Business Association.

Ahiekpor was also convicted and sentenced for wire fraud for his role in defrauding the EIDL program.

More news on scams:Is Ohio holding your unclaimed funds? Columbus man who stole over $486k of it gets prison

The public can report online romance scams and other internet crimes at ic3.gov.

Parker's office offered some tips from experts for avoiding romance scams:

Be careful what you post and make public online. Scammers can use details shared on social media and dating sites to better understand and target you.

Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to communicate directly.

Beware if the individual attempts to isolate you from friends and family or requests inappropriate photos or financial information that could later be used to extort you.

Beware if the individual promises to meet in person but then always comes up with an excuse why he or she cant. If you havent met the person after a few months, for whatever reason, you have good reason to be suspicious.

Never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone. Never provide your financial information or allow your bank accounts to be used for transfers of funds.

jlaird@dispatch.com

@LairdWrites

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus-area defendants laundered millions of dollars in romance scam
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Johnny Lozoya is not an Arizona native. But if you ask the lowrider community in the state, he may as well be a Chicano Arizonan, born and raised, despite having only lived in Phoenix for 25 years. The decades he's dedicated to nurturing and uplifting the lowrider culture across the southwest says it all.

He arrived in the late 70s and quickly positioned himself as a promoter of the culture, which originated in southern California, Texas and the southwest after World War II. Lowriders were an expression of art, family and religion within Chicano and Latin American cultures.

Lozoya's love of the low- and slow-riding, customized classic cars, a staple now in Chicano households, is something he has helped spread across Arizona.

Johnny Lozoya poses for a portrait near his home in Phoenix on Feb. 24, 2023.

Lozoya, 69, grew up in the Los Angeles area, surrounded by lowrider culture. He saw dozens of Latino families get together, live together and display vintage cars with hydraulic suspension that dance to the beat of barrio music was fascinating to him. So he joined a car club.

"All of us who had the same idea of driving our cars through the streets would get together and do things for the community like dances, barbecues, free community events," said Lozoya.

He quickly identified with the movement and joined one of the clubs. He then founded his own which he named "New Image," because he wanted to give the lowrider a new image given the negative stereotypes associated with the culture.

At that time they didn't want the lowriders because there was a lot of negative imagery surrounding it, and we didn't understand why," he said. "We are hard-working, united families who contribute a lot to the community."

Racist history:Tempe renames streets, parks linked to Ku Klux Klan members

Planting the lowrider seed in Arizona

His successful contribution to the movement led him to be invited to participate as a promoter for Lowrider Magazine, which covered several states he visited to hold events, open points of sale for the magazine and above all cultivate the lowrider movement.

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His work brought him to Arizona in 1969, where he organized the first-ever lowrider convention in the state held at Firebird Lake in Chandler. People from California, Texas, New Mexico and other states attended. He was the first Chicano to ever organize an event like this for the magazine.

Coming to Arizona was like planting little seeds. In Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma there was a big lowrider presence, but it was not well organized, said Lozoya.

Johnny Lozoya poses for a portrait inside his home in Phoenix on Feb. 24, 2023.

Lozoya helped organize at least five lowrider super shows in Arizona. Over time the movement grew to establish itself as one of the fastest-growing states for lowrider culture. Despite not being the largest state for it, Lozoya said Arizonans are the most loyal in the movement.

"Speaking of the lowrider movement, Los Angeles is in first place, that's what the numbers reflect. But Arizona which is number two  wins first place in loyalty because locals show up to events, fill them up. They are very loyal to the movement, said Lozoya.

"We did not create the lowrider, but we confirmed the movement. I've been doing that for more than 40 years," said Lozoya, adding that the lowrider community has always recognized his efforts and contributions to the movement.

Roger Amaya, who has known Lozoya for more than 35 years, praised his leadership, applauding the way he actively participates in the community.

Amaya, an Anthem resident, said he has been witness to the care and devotion Lozoya gives organizing events for the lowrider community. His events are a success because of it, he said.

Johnny Lozoya poses for a portrait near his home in Phoenix on Feb. 24, 2023.

A passion for photography and activism

When I had my first camera and took the first photo, I fell in love with the trade, said Lozoya.

He stood out as a photographer for his projects with Lowrider Magazine and at social events, but he dreamed of taking his work to another level.

The dream came to him in the early 1990s, when former Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox hired him to take photos at a dinner attended by Janet Napolitano, former Secretary of Homeland Security and Arizona Governor, as well as other Latino leaders.

Phoenix City Council race:Meet Carlos Garcia, Kesha Hodge Washington: District 8 candidates

"That was a goal for me. I was very hungry to do that, to take photos at political events, with great personalities and the opportunity came to me and it turned my life around," he said.

From there new opportunities came to him: Bernie Sanders, John McCain, George W. Bush, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Bob Menendez, Ed Pastor, John Kerry  all figures he got a chance to photograph.

One of his close friends is longtime photographer Jose Munoz, who for decades has documented the immigrant community in Arizona, especially during the time that the controversial "show me your papers" SB 1070 law went into effect.

After having worked alongside Lozoya for 25 years, he said he's had the chance to witness the passion he pours into his work.

He is very passionate about what he does. He loves photography and that is reflected in the quality of his work, said Munoz. "He has great charisma and that has led him to reap great friendships in this work.

He added that at the time, Lozoya gave him good advice that helped him become a better photographer, something he considers invaluable.

I started photography as a hobby without imagining what the future had in store for me. Today I feel proud of all the memories that I have captured, said Lozoya.

Johnny Lozoya poses for a portrait near his home in Phoenix on Feb. 24, 2023.

Lozoya has also been a strong supporter of immigrant rights.

For the last 20 years, he's been a member of the League of United Latin American Citizens LULAC where he helps with community relations. And for the last 10, he's worked with Somos America, a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of immigrants in the United States.

His commitment to immigrants and all Latinos in Arizona is a passion he found in Cesar Chavez's labor and civil rights activism.

"(Chavez) was an example of activism. He is a character who helped Latino workers a lot, I believe that today we need 100 Cesar Chavez's in Phoenix to achieve justice," he said. Enough of the disunity, gossip and envy... we have to wake up, unite and be in the same conversation, work together for justice, said Lozoya.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Lowriders in Arizona: Meet the man who helped cultivate movement
Precious Ubaka Spik and Shalonda Trent met in real life in Dubai, United Arab Emirates  a week before they got married. Shalonda Trent

Shalonda Trent met her husband on Facebook. They eventually met in person and married a week later.

She said her family begged her not to go abroad to marry a man she was yet to meet in real life.

This is Trent's story, as told to Jane Ridley.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Shalonda Trent. It has been edited for length and clarity.

My younger brother called me when I was about to order a coffee and a bagel from Dunkin' Donuts before my flight to the Middle East.

He'd been calling me ever since I'd bought the plane tickets. This time, he begged me to leave the airport and wait for my dad.

"He'll get in the car right now and pick you up," my brother said.

I'd already checked my four bags  I had to pay a $300 excess-baggage fee  and my brother was ruining my mood even more. We argued for a while and then I hung up. Nobody was going to stop me from going to Dubai, not my family, my friends, or even my pastor.

We planned our wedding during our WhatsApp conversations

It was not an arranged marriage. I'd chosen my future husband  who I'd met only on Facebook and WhatsApp  myself. It didn't matter to us that we hadn't seen each other in real life. He proposed in April 2021, a month after we started direct-messaging each other. We were in love.

We decided to meet in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on November 25, 2021, because it was about halfway between the US and Kazakhstan, where Precious lived. We planned to stay in Dubai for three days, then have the wedding in Nigeria, where he grew up.

Most of the arrangements were done on WhatsApp. We chose our rings and the hotel for the honeymoon. I sent my dress measurements to his sister-in-law Chika to hand to a seamstress. I wanted my outfits to be custom-made in Nigeria.

Our story began in spring 2018. Precious randomly sent me a friend request on Facebook. He said he liked the scriptures and encouragement that I posted on my feed. We talked a bit about what it meant to be Christian, but that was it. It was never romantic. We got on with our lives and lost touch.

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But three years later, he sent me a direct message out of the blue. I'd been wondering whether I'd ever find the right guy to settle down with. This time, Precious told me his feelings from the start. He said he loved me ever since the day we became Facebook friends.

We did a video chat because it was important to know he wasn't a scam artist

He said he knew I was the right woman for him. But I don't believe in marrying someone just because you want to get married. I wanted us to get to know each other.

He told me to download WhatsApp. We talked about our jobs  he taught English in Kazakhstan, and I'd written two books  and what we wanted from life. He was humorous and honest. He stood on his own feet. He had all the qualities I was looking for in a husband.

We did a video chat two weeks later. It was important for me to make sure he was real. There are a lot of scams out there. But he was who he said he was. He was handsome. It felt safe to speak with him. He really understood me.

Spik and Trent at the first of their two weddings in Nigeria. Shalonda Trent

Precious proposed during a video chat in April 2021. I said yes straight away. He sent me $2,000 in cash to buy a diamond engagement ring. I picked up the money from Western Union. I sent him a photo of the ring on my finger and the certificate of authenticity.

My family said Precious wanted to marry me only because he wanted a US visa

We spent the next six months making the arrangements for our wedding in Nigeria, where Precious grew up. There was a lot to organize because it was traditional in his tribe  the Igbo tribe  to get married in two ceremonies.

They couldn't believe we were planning to get married without ever having met each other in person. They said Precious must be a scam artist.

My six brothers and sisters told me he wanted to marry me just to get a visa for the US. My pastor told me he'd watched a documentary about a woman who married someone she'd met on the internet. "It didn't end well," he said.

They tried their best to change my mind. But I wouldn't listen. I hung up on my brother when I was about to get on my flight because I'd had enough.

Trent and Spik with their baby, Amiyah Elise. Shalonda Trent

I caught a direct flight to Qatar from Philadelphia. Then I got a connecting flight to Dubai and arrived on November 25, 2021. The plane was delayed. I was exhausted. I was pushing my luggage in a cart when I walked into the arrivals hall in Dubai. I looked around and thought, "Where is this guy?"

Then I saw him waiting for me. If I'd had any doubts, they were gone. We were attracted to each  but we'd known that all along. We hugged. But we didn't kiss, not even on the cheek. We'd decided to wait until our wedding day.

We spent three days in Dubai, then traveled to Nigeria. Precious' family members, who live in the south of the country, were so happy to see us. I tried on my two wedding dresses  a red dress made of silk and a traditional white gown. They fit perfectly.

We had the two ceremonies  one after the other  on December 9, 2021. Just once, in a fleeting moment, I thought, "Oh, my gosh, are you really doing this?" and, "If this is a mistake, you've got to live with it." But I had faith. I knew that Precious was a decent, loving man.

Trent and Spik welcomed Amiyah Elise in September. Kubrak Yekaterina

Our first wedding anniversary is coming up  and my family has come around to the idea of our marriage. They've told me that they're happy for us. We live in Kazakhstan where Precious still has the same job. Our beautiful daughter, Amiyah Elise, was born in September.

I haven't really had the time to sit down and soak in what I've done. But I understand it enough to know that it was something that I had to do. I've always been a risk-taker. You have to take risks in life to get where you want to be.

Do you have a powerful story to share with Insider? Please send details to jridley@insider.com.

Read the original article on Insider
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Kent Nishimura / Getty Images

Mexico's president shared a photo on social media of what he said was an elf-like woodland creature.

"Everything is mystical," he wrote along with the photo.

His widely viewed tweet sparked confused and mocking responses.

Mexico's president has been mocked on social media after he shared a photo of what he described as a sighting of a mythical woodland figure.

The image shared by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador appears to show a dark creature with bright white hair and eyes sitting in a tree.

Lopez Obrador said the photo "was taken three days ago by an engineer" and appears to be an "aluxe," which is a type of small elf-like mythological creature in Mayan mythology.

"Everything is mystical," he concluded.

The mythical aluxes, like the elves and fairies of European folklore, are mischievous beings that inhabit forests and fields and sometimes play tricks on humans, according to the beliefs of some Mayan people from the Yucatan Peninsula and Guatemala.

Journalist Mauricio Schwarz responded to the tweet to debunk the sighting, telling the president that the image has actually circulated on social media since February 2021.

"If you believe it, you are stupid. If you know you are lying, you are malicious." Schwarz wrote.

Lopez Obrador, who has been president since 2018, has previously expressed an interest in and respect for indigenous cultures.

The tweet spread widely in Mexico, being viewed over three million times at the time of writing and sparking confused and mocking responses.

Read the original article on Business Insider
District Judge Hasbrouk Jacobs on Monday cautioned and attorney for an MU fraternity hazing defendant that after April's hearing, he will move cases to a trial docket if they're not resolved.

The judge made his statement during a hearing for Samuel Gandhi, of St. Louis, charged with felony hazing of University of Missouri Phi Gamma Delta pledge Danny Santulli on Oct. 19, 2021. The fraternity, now banned from MU, also was known as Fiji.

The hazing caused alcohol poisoning resulting in brain damage for Santulli. Unable to walk, talk or see, Santulli is being cared for by his parents at their home in Minnesota.

University of Missouri documents obtained through an open records request show hazing and alcohol abuse is a regular occurrence in campus fraternities.

Gandhi is one of 11 charged with Santulli's hazing and one of 10 charged with a felony.

The police statement that led to the charges against Gandhi included his text messages to fraternity members reminding them of the event called "Pledge Dad Reveal Night" and of the alcohol that would be at the fraternity house.

Also included is a text from Gandhi to another co-defendant on April 20 stating that when Santulli sat up, he put Santulli's head over a trash can.

"He didn't vomit so we laid him back down with his head propped up," Gandhi's text in the police statement. "He sat up and talked for a bit before passing out again."

Gandhi provided bulk amounts of alcohol for the event, the statement reads.

Gandhi's attorney, William Hamilton, said he's been trying to schedule depositions with assistant prosecutor Nick Komoroski, but Komoroski has been busy preparing for a murder trial.

Jacobs asked Hamilton if he's been working with other co-defendants.

"Somewhat, yeah," said Hamilton.

Jacobs set Gandhi's next hearing for April 24.

"After that I'm going to start looking at trial dates," Jacobs said. "If you all are going to depos, take care of that."

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An attorney for another hazing defendant in a recent hearing said Komoroski plans to go to trial with the two defendants with whom he would have the strongest cases, but he didn't identify the defendants.

The first two defendants charged with felony hazing were Ryan Delanty, Santulli's designated "Pledge Dad," and fraternity member Thomas Shultz.

MU has punished 13 members of the fraternity.

Roger McKinney is the Tribune's education reporter. 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: One judge cautions continued rescheduling in hazing cases may end soon
Ohio's five public pension funds collectively lost $32 billion in the 2022 investment market.

Ohio's five public pensions systems collectively lost $32 billion in the tough investment market last year  huge losses that will take years to recover.

The biggest loss occurred with the biggest system, Ohio Public Employees Retirement System, which lost $19.7 billion. OPERS serves 1.2 million workers and retirees. The 2022 loss represents about 12% of the total portfolio.

State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio lost $9.5 billion, which represents 9.64% of the portfolio. It serves roughly 465,000 active and retired teachers.

Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund lost $1.74 billion, which was 9.04% of the portfolio. It serves nearly 60,000 active and retired police and firefighters.

School Employees Retirement System lost $949 million, which was 4.89% of its portfolio. It serves 236,000 non-teacher school employees including bus drivers and cafeteria workers.

Public Pensions'I wouldn't even invest my own money in this': Ohio teachers' pension board pans $65 billion pitch

Ohio Highway Patrol Retirement System, the smallest fund of the five, lost $109.9 million, which was 10.1% of its portfolio.

Public employees in Ohio don't contribute to Social Security so the public pensions represent their main retirement funds.

The heavy losses represent a big swing away from how much the pension funds anticipated earning. The pension boards set their expected annual rate of return, ranging from a low of 6.9% for OPERS to a high of 7.5% for OP&F.

The funds enjoyed big returns in 2020, ranging from 9.21% to 16.9%, and even bigger gains in 2019, ranging from 17.23% to 19.59%.

STRS: Lack of confidence?

Infighting and discord on the 11-member State Teachers Retirement System board continues to be an issue.

In mid-February, the board deadlocked in a 5-5 vote of confidence for STRS Executive Director Bill Neville. A faction of the board blames Neville for investment losses and what they view as a lack of transparency.

While debating the confidence vote, STRS Board Member Julie Sellers said "We have to have a change at the top."

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Sellers, Elizabeth Jones and Steve Foreman captured three seats on the board in May 2022, ousting incumbents. The three newcomers joined board members Wade Steen and Rudy Fichtenbaum in expressing no confidence in Neville.

An anonymous group backed the three challengers via a website, post card mailers and billboards. And STRSWatchdogs.org, a grassroots group of retirees and teachers, endorsed Sellers, Jones and Foreman.

STRS Board Chairwoman Carol Correthers said "Bill Neville has my complete confidence."

She noted that in his two-and-a-half years as director, STRS retirees received a 3% cost of living bump, health care premium rebates and active teachers no longer have to work to age 60 to receive their pension.

"Importantly, STRS has maintained strong funding in both the pension fund and health care fund," she said.

OP&F: Failed to get a rate hike in 2022

Last year, the police and fire pension fund failed to convince lawmakers to increase the amount employers must contribute.

The legislation called for increasing local governments' rates to 26.5% of payroll for cops and firefighters, up from the current rates of 19.5% and 24%, respectively. The hike would be passed on to taxpayers.

Local governments opposed the bill.

OP&F Director Mary Beth Foley said that if the rate increase wasn't approved, the system would have to cut benefits for police and firefighters.

Foley said state Rep. Cindy Abrams, R-Cincinnati, plans to reintroduce the bill this session.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio public pension funds lost $32 billion in 2022
Alex Speredelozzi, of Providence, is secretary of the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness.

During the last week of January, I volunteered in the Point in Time Count, an annual census of Rhode Islanders experiencing homelessness, as mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The count brings awareness of unsheltered individuals in our state and helps us advocate for federal and state funding to support housing for all Rhode Islanders.

I am a board member of the Rhode Island Coalition to End Homelessness. I gravitated toward the work of the coalition because of the rising levels of homelessness in our state, including children, and I wanted to be part of the solution. As a community, not to rise up and lend a hand seems cruel.

A homeless tent encampment outside the State House in December.

In conversations with people the night of the count, we were struck with how thankful they were to have a roof over their heads for the evening. Despite the difficulty of not having a place to go home to and some bad breaks in life, the people we spoke with had humor, warmth and appreciation. However, we saw that living unsheltered takes a heavy toll on people. These were people who, right now, needed a few things to go right for them. Having a warm home would be a good start towards that end.

Opinion: What do Rhode Islanders expect from housing secretary? A new direction

More:Is 'Pay for Success' the key to solving RI's homelessness crisis?

Yet, in nearly all Rhode Island communities, rising home prices and rental rates price many out of a home. According to the HousingWorksRI 2022 Factbook, more than one in three Rhode Island households pay too much for housing.

It's time to get off the sidelines. Call your state legislators and local officials and let them know that housing is a priority for you, shelter is a priority for you, and emergency shelter is a priority for you. No one should have to live outside  in the winter or in the summer.

If you are faced with that situation, you should have options to ensure that you, your family and your children are in a safe, stable environment where they can thrive. To learn what actions you can take to support unhoused Rhode Islanders, go to e-news at www.rihomeless.org.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Tell RI legislators now that affordable housing matters to you | Opinion Column
America has no shortage of challenges that need the resources we have sent to Ukraine. When discussing Russia or Ukraine, perspective and pragmatism, not passions and politics, matter. Ukraine, like much of eastern Europe, is corrupt. Life under Russian domination is one of privation, despotism, and exploitation just ask a Pole or Hungarian, read Khruschevs diaries and his description of cannibalism in Ukraine during the Holodomor.

Does Ukraine merit $30 billion (about as much as Alabamas 2019 budget) of U.S. aid since February 2022?

Does it matter that Ukraine produces 10% the worlds wheat exports and 16% of its corn exports? Does it matter that Ukrainian agriculture keeps millions of people in the Middle East and Africa from starving?

Since 1991, every U.S. president has supported Ukraines sovereignty. In fact, lethal aid to Ukraine began in 2018, when the Trump Administration provided Javelin missiles to Ukraine. President Trump recognized Ukraines value to American security and international stability.

In case you missed it: She's in Gulf Breeze. Her husband is stuck in Ukraine. Here's their plan to help both places.

And: Two Ukrainian students came to Pensacola for school. Now they're raising support for home

America supports Ukraine for three reasons.

First, supporting Ukraine helps keep the nuclear genie in the bottle.

Why do only nine countries (America, Russia, France, China, Great Britain, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea) out the 195 states in the world possess nuclear weapons?

Few countries possess nuclear weapons because the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NNPT) controls a signatorys access to nuclear technology and materials. In 1994, the United States and Great Britain signed the Budapest Memorandum on Security Assurances, which commits us to uphold the territorial integrity of Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan. Our security guarantee helped convince Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to sign the NNPT and relinquish the nuclear weapons they possessed when the Soviet Union collapsed.

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Had Ukraine retained its nuclear capability, would history be different? If we waiver in Ukraine, will others conclude that nuclear weapons will protect you when America will not?

Second, American credibility, which shattered in Afghanistan, is at stake. Under President Trump, withdrawal of U.S. forces was contingent upon processes President Biden abandoned. Essential to U.S. efforts was the elimination of the Tehreek-e-Taliban-e-Pakistan (TTP) and the Islamic State. Since 2021, the TTP has strengthened and escalated its war against Pakistans fragile government. Suppose radical Islamists in the region topple Pakistan as they seized Afghanistan, could we deter them from using or proliferating Pakistans nuclear weapons?

Losing Afghanistan emboldened Russia to invade Ukraine. As Winston Churchill described, there is nothing they (Russians) admire so much as strength, and there is nothing for which they have less respect than weakness, especially military weakness. America failed to stop Putin in Georgia (2008) and Crimea (2014), so why spare Ukraine after watching America abandon Afghanistan?

If we waiver in Ukraine, should Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea believe in American security commitments? If we waiver in Ukraine, can we credibly deter Islamists in Pakistan and Afghanistan, ayatollahs in Iran, or Xi Jinping in China?

If we waiver in Ukraine, should Israel rely on President Nixons promise to always ensure Israels conventional superiority subject to Israel maintaining a policy of nuclear opacity? If you were an Israeli, would you trust America to support you in a war with Iran or Hezbollah?

Finally, American weapons in Ukrainian hands are punishing Russian brutality. In the years it takes Russia to rebuild its military power, Russias absence frees American resources to confront Chinas challenge.

President Biden deserves credit in that he forswore any use of U.S. troops in Ukraine. Success requires certainty, limits, and clarity in what we will and will not do for Ukraine. Ukraine is not worth American lives, but it is worth engagement that reinforces world confidence that America keeps its word.

Edwin Howard is a native and resident of Escambia County, Florida. He is a 28-year veteran of the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserve specializing in intelligence, serving in Afghanistan, the Middle East and Liberia.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Ukraine funding discussion should be based on pragmatism | Guestview
Russian President Vladimir Putin is reportedly honoring Steven Seagal with an award for the Under Siege actors support of the country.

Seagal was presented with the Order of Friendship, multiple news outlets reported on Monday, citing the Russian governments internet portal.

The award was created in 1994 to encourage citizens for activities aimed at ensuring the well-being, prosperity and security of Russia.

The 70-year-old former action star, who was granted Russian citizenship by Putin in 2016, was also appointed as Russias special envoy to the United States in 2018.

The honor came on the heels of the anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.

Seagal, who was born in Michigan, supported Russias 2014 annexation of Crimea, a peninsula in the south of Ukraine. Last year, he was seen in Russian state-owned TV network footage visiting a destroyed Ukrainian prison.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel touted the GOPs deep bench of presidential candidates as the Republican party prepares for a potentially crowded primary in the 2024 race.

It could be a big stage  I think it speaks about the deep bench we have. I mean, we have so many great governors, senators, congressional leaders, business leaders, a former president. We have such a great bench of candidates, McDaniel said on CNNs State of the Union.

Former President Trump and his former ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, so far are the only declared Republicans in the race but a number of other prominent party figures are expected to join them including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and former Vice President Mike Pence.

I look at the Democrats, what theyre doing to limit any competition to Biden, McDaniel said, highlighting the Democrats new tweaks to their presidential nominating calendar, which include shifting New Hampshire out of its first-in-the-nation slot. Why? Because Joe Biden came in eighth. So that is a president whos weak, whos worried about competition from his own party, and we have a broad bench ready to run for president.

McDaniel stressed that the RNC will likely be asking candidates to commit to backing whoever ultimately wins the GOP nomination despite suggestions by Trump that he may not agree to pledge to support whoever is chosen.

I expect that they will accept the results in 2024. Im not  I dont know who that person is right now. But, yes, were going to accept the results. And were going to move forward and work to govern this country. But I think theyre going to accept the results because theyre going to be the president, she said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On Wednesday, March 1, at 11.00, the press centre of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a press conference entitled "I stay at home. Women scientists about year of invincibility" and a presentation of a project dedicated to those women who did not leave Ukraine and continue to carry out their professional functions. Participants include President of the Association for Social Development through Law, Applicant of the Department of Constitutional and Administrative Law of the Faculty of Law of NAU, Chair of the women's movement "Women for Change," moderator of the press conference Inna Sylantiva; PhD in Law, professor, Full Member (Academician) of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine, Honored Worker of Science and Technology of Ukraine, Vice-President of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine Natalia Kuznyetsova; Deputy Director of the Institute of State and Law of V.M. Koretsky National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, PhD in Law, professor, Academician of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine Natalia Onyschenko; deputy of Kyiv city council, candidate of legal sciences Hanna Svyrydenko; PhD in Law, Associate Professor, Deputy Chief Scientific Secretary of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine, Chief Researcher of the Research Institute of Lawmaking and Scientific and Legal Expertise of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine Maryna Velykanova; representative of local self-government bodies, volunteer, head of Odesa regional organization "Women for Change" Tetiana Motorna and others (8/5a Reitarska Street). The event will be streamed on the YouTube channel of Interfax-Ukraine. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot. Details at: (073) 444 1927.
A destroyed Russian Su-34 fighter jet in Lyman, Ukraine on October 5. Metin Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Limited numbers of guided air-to-ground munitions hinder Russia's ability to conduct airstrikes.

However, more potent air-to-air missiles are helping Russian jets keep Ukrainian aircraft at bay.

Both sides are using air-launched weapons at a rate that is striking to experts observing the war.

Russia's air force is having better luck hitting targets in the air than on the ground.

Limited quantities of guided air-to-ground munitions have hindered Russia's ability to carry out effective airstrikes. However, a potent mix of air-to-air missiles  some of which out-range their Ukrainian counterparts  have helped keep Ukrainian aircraft at bay.

Indeed, both the Russian and Ukrainian air forces are depleting their missile stockpiles, according to analysts at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, a British defense think tank. Several experts spoke at a briefing for the launch of the 2023 edition of the institute's Military Balance, an authoritative tally of the weapons owned by nations around the world.

"I think one of the things that struck us all on the panel has been the high utilization rates, certainly, of air-launched guided weaponry," said Douglas Barrie, IISS senior fellow for military aerospace. "You see capability gaps and a lack of inventory depth both on the part of Moscow and Kyiv."

A Ukrainian jet releases flares over Bakhmut on October 28. Metin Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Russian airstrikes have been hampered not just by Ukrainian aircraft and air defenses but also by a lack of smart bombs.

"This is most important with the Kh-101, which is a very long-range air-launched cruise missile that they've used repeatedly, but the service also lacks certain kinds of tactical air-to-surface weapons," Barrie said of Russia's air force.

Barrie believes the most significant shortfall in Russia's missile arsenal has been the Kh-38, a short-range modular air-to-ground missile for use against armored and unarmored targets.

The Kh-38 has an inertial guidance system that can also be configured to include radar and laser homing as well as thermal imaging and satellite navigation. It has a range of up to about 25 miles, according to Russian defense manufacturer Rosoboronexport.

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The Kh-38 is a Soviet concept dating back to the 1980s, but the Russian air force never procured them "in anything like operationally useful numbers," Barrie said. Shortages of air-to-ground weapons has forced Russia into desperate expedients, such as firing S-300 anti-aircraft missiles at ground targets.

The wreckage of a Ukrainian fighter jet in a field in Kherson on January 7. Pierre Crom/Getty Images

Russia has had better luck with its missiles against Ukrainian aircraft.

"Where the Russian Air Force has actually been more successful is in the capability it has in medium- and long-range air-to-air missiles," Barrie said, pointing to Su-35S fighters armed with R-77-1 missiles, which have a range of about 62 miles.

Russian fighters  including the Su-35M and Su-30M  have also employed R-37M missiles with an a range of 200 miles, according to the Royal United Service Institute, another British defense think tank.

Ukraine's old Soviet-designed MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters are only armed with R-27 missiles with a range of 50 miles.

The R-27 has semi-active radar guidance, which means the launch aircraft has to use its own radar to continuously illuminate the target for the missile to follow. This prevents the launch aircraft from maneuvering while R-27 is in flight, leaving it vulnerable to attack. Russian aircraft can also detect the continuous radar waves and take evasive action.

Compounding the problem for Ukraine is that the long-range Russian missiles are active radar homing weapons, with an on-board "fire and forget" radar that allows them to detect and home in on Ukrainian aircraft autonomously.

A Russian weapons crew with an R-27 missile during training in June 2018. Yevgeny Polovodov/Russian Ministry of Defense/Mil.ru

Though long-range Russian air-to-air missile shots "have a low probability of kill, they force Ukrainian pilots to go defensive or risk being hit while still far outside their own effective range, and a few such long-range shots have found their mark," RUSI noted in a report published last year.

Russian air-to-air missiles have been "effective in limiting the Ukrainians ability to use their own air force," Barrie said.

Yet it says much about Russian military capabilities that even against a badly outnumbered foe armed with old Cold War-era aircraft, the best that the Russian air force can do is keep Ukrainian planes from bombing Russian troops some of the time.

Nonetheless, Ukraine will continue to be at an aerial disadvantage unless Western countries decide to provide advanced fighters and air-to-air missiles such as the US-made AIM-120D, an active-radar missile with an estimated range of 100 miles.

For now, the only blessing for Ukraine is that Russia doesn't have a lot of these long-range air-to-air missiles. "The overall limitations in terms of inventory continue to be manifest in the way Russia is having to use its airpower during the war," Barrie said.

Michael Peck is a defense writer whose work has appeared in Forbes, Defense News, Foreign Policy magazine, and other publications. He holds a master's in political science. Follow him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Read the original article on Business Insider
SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with the Crew Dragon spacecraft sits on launch pad 39A after its launch was scrubbed due to technical issues with the rocket at the Kennedy Space Center on February 27, 2023 in Cape Canaveral, Florida. The astronauts were scheduled to lift off on Monday at 1:45am on a mission to the International Space Station.

Joe Raedle/Getty

SpaceX's latest mission has been scrubbed.

The Falcon rocket launch, carrying two NASA astronauts, a Russian cosmonaut and the first astronaut from the United Arab Emirates to be assigned to such a voyage, was headed to the International Space Station for a monthslong mission.

"Standing down from tonight's launch of Crew-6 due to a TEA-TEB ground system issue," SpaceX tweeted early Monday morning. "Both Crew-6 and the vehicles are healthy and propellant offload has begun ahead of the crew disembarking Dragon."

An issue with the engine ignition system was determined to be the cause of the failure, reported the Associated Press, which cited a SpaceX engineer who said the problem involved the ignition fluid which acts like the "spark plugs for a car."

The mission was canceled just two minutes before liftoff and crew members had to sit in the capsule for around an hour as the fluid was drained from the rocket before it was safe to disembark, added the AP.

RELATED: Liftoff! 'Return to Space' Trailer Follows Elon Musk's First SpaceX Human Rocket Launch  Watch

Crew-6 members (L-R) Russian cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, NASA astronaut Warren Hoburg, Sultan Al Neyadi of the United Arab Emirates, and NASA astronaut Mission Commander Stephen Bowen walk out of the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building before riding to pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center for the launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 Crew-6 mission on February 26, 2023 in Cape Canaveral, Florida, United States. The crew will launch on the Crew Dragon spacecraft for a six-month expedition to the International Space Station at 1:45 a.m. EST tomorrow.

Paul Hennessy/Anadolu Agency via Getty

RELATED: SpaceX Launches First Full NASA Crew to the International Space Station

"We'll be sitting here waiting," commander Stephen Bowen said at the time. "We're all feeling good."

With adverse weather conditions forecast for parts of the U.S. East Coast in the next couple of days, the space agency said it was "targeting no earlier than Thursday, March 2 at 12:34 a.m. ET" for the next launch attempt.

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.

The team of astronauts are replacing four others who have been on the space station since October.
Washington  The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to take up a case taking aim at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, putting the agency in the crosshairs of the conservative court once again.

At the crux of the court battle is the mechanism for funding the consumer watchdog, which was the brainchild of Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts. Unlike most of the federal government's agencies and departments, which are funded through congressional appropriations, the CFPB is funded by the Federal Reserve. The high court will review a decision by a federal appeals court that found the funding structure violates the Appropriations Clause of the Constitution, which states that "no money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in consequence of appropriations made by law."

Since the CFPB was established in 2010 through the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, the consumer watchdog has been a target of numerous court battles mounted by conservatives. In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled that the structure of the CFPB violates the separation of powers, as its director must be removable by the president at will. Still, the court said the agency may continue to operate.

The latest dispute to be heard by the court, likely in its next term beginning in October, involves the mechanism passed by Congress for funding the CFPB. Under Dodd-Frank, passed in the wake of the financial crisis, Congress specified that the agency would receive up to a capped amount of funding each year  12% of the Federal Reserve's operating expenses  from the earnings of the Federal Reserve System. The law stated the CFPB's funds "shall not be subject to review by the" House and Senate Appropriations Committees.

In 2022, the amount that the CFPB could receive through this funding system was roughly $734 million, and the CFPB requested and received $641.5 million this fiscal year, the Biden administration said in court filings.

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But in 2020, two associations, the Consumer Financial Services Association of America and the Consumer Service Alliance of Texas, sued the CFPB, claiming in part that the watchdog's funding mechanism violates the Constitution because it's improperly insulated from congressional supervision. The associations' lawsuit centered around a 2017 payday lending rule.

A federal district court sided with the CFPB, but a three-judge panel on U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit found the bureau's funding structure unconstitutional. All three of the judges, Don Willett, Kurt Engelhardt and Cory Wilson, were appointed by former President Donald Trump.

The Biden administration appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, arguing the lower court "relied on an unprecedented and erroneous understanding" of the Appropriations Clause and warning that the 5th Circuit's decision "calls into question virtually every action the CFPB has taken" since its creation.

"Congress enacted a statute explicitly authorizing the CFPB to use a specified amount of funds from a specified source for specified purposes. The Appropriations Clause requires nothing more," Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar wrote in a petition asking the court to take up the case. "The court of appeals' novel and ill-defined limits on Congress's spending authority contradict the Constitution's text, historical practice, and this Court's precedent."

But the two associations urged the Supreme Court to leave the lower court's decision in place, arguing in court papers that Congress in 2010 "deliberately circumvented" the Appropriations Clause by "vesting the CFPB with discretionary authority to fund its operations by taking as much as hundreds of millions of dollars directly from the Federal Reserve each year forever."

"The Bureau's defenses of Congress's unprecedented abdication of its fiscal oversight all fail," lawyers for the groups wrote.

In response to the Supreme Court's decision to take up the dispute, Warren said the CFPB and its funding structure have withstood "years of desperate attacks from Republicans & corporate lobbyists."

"If the Supreme Court follows precedent, it will strike down the Fifth Circuit's decision before it throws our economy into chaos," she tweeted.

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A woman on the trip of a lifetime was left fighting for her life when a dolphin nearly bit her foot off during a wild swim.

Traumatised, Claire Bye, 28, was swimming in a river in Santa Rosa de Yacuma, Bolivia, when a pink river dolphin suddenly sunk its teeth into her right foot.

After trying to get free she screamed for help, and onlookers frantically attempted to pull her out of the water.

It took 20 seconds before the grey mammal released its grip and swam away, allowing Claire to climb out of the water to safety.

She was horrified when she caught sight of the wound to find her foot had been partially severed and was pouring with blood.

Claire said: I just kept thinking I was going to lose my foot. My skin was flapping around and I could see my bone.

Claire was rushed to a local hospital a five-minute drive away, where her open wounds were treated with 32 stitches.

After four days, her condition went downhill as she battled a potentially life-threatening infection and medics advised she be flown to La Paz, the capital of Bolivia, for further treatment.

After a surgical clean to treat the infection and remove the dead tissue, Claire had to wait another two weeks before she could fly home to the UK.

Once back home, she underwent skin flap surgery, where living tissue was transferred from her groin to her foot, at Southmead Hospital, Bristol, and spent a further two weeks there recovering.

Traumatised, Claire Bye, 28, was swimming in a river in Santa Rosa de Yacuma, Bolivia, when a pink river dolphin suddenly sunk it's teeth into her right foot. (TomWren SWNS)

Claire, an acoustic consultant from Bedminster, Bristol, said: Ive never felt pain like it.

I remember seeing the dolphin out of the corner of my eye, and then it suddenly lunged at me.

It wasnt the cute-looking dolphins were used to seeing, it had a huge beak with a mouthful of spiky teeth.

I screamed and screamed, but it just wouldnt let go of me.

It felt like it had me for 15 minutes, but apparently it was about 20 seconds before it let go and swam away.

After the attack, I was taken to a tiny local hospital that was nothing like the hospitals we have.

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They did the best they could, but I caught an infection that began to spread up my leg.

I honestly thought Id lose my foot, or potentially my life.

Claire set off on the trip of a lifetime in October 2022 with plans to travel around South America and Central America for seven months.

But on 3rd January 2023, only three months into her trip, Claires travels were cut short by the life-changing injuries.

Claire and her friend Louis set off earlier that day on a jungle trek to explore the Amazon Basin - the part of South America drained by the Amazon River.

They were led by an experienced tour guide and joined by a group of fellow tourists.

It took 20 seconds before the grey mammal released its grip and swam away, allowing Claire to climb out of the water to safety. (TomWren SWNS)

The group stopped at the river and spent time swimming and playing with the wild pink river dolphins.

Claire said: There were mostly children swimming in the water with the dolphins.

I saw one child try to pick up a dolphin, which made me feel uneasy, so I decided to get out of the water and onto the pontoon.

Thats when the dolphins started to turn aggressive, and a few people got out of the water with scrapes on their legs where theyd been bitten.

Claire decided not to go back into the water but instead opted to play with the dolphins with a water bottle, as demonstrated by their tour guide, from the safety of the pontoon.

After a few minutes, Claire accidentally dropped the water bottle, so she hopped into the shallow water to retrieve it.

Moments later, a dolphin lunged at Claire and bit down on her right foot.

Terrified, Claire tried to climb out of the water, but the creatures firm grip prevented her from breaking free.

Claire explained: The water was brown, and I was facing away so I couldnt actually see it bite down on my foot.

The people on the pontoon tried to help pull me up, but I couldnt move because the dolphin wasnt letting go.

The dolphin eventually released her foot, allowing her to climb out of the water.

Her partially severed foot poured with blood, with the tendons and bones exposed.

A bystander took off his T-shirt to tie around her foot to stem the bleeding, and Claire was carried to a nearby car and driven to the local hospital.

Claire said: It was only a five-minute drive, but I was in agony and screaming for pain relief.

When we arrived at the hospital my heart sank - it was more like a farmyard than an actual hospital.

After trying to get free, Claire Bye screamed for help, and onlookers frantically attempted to pull her out of the water. (TomWren SWNS)

The people there were very kind and did the best they could to sew up my foot, but they didnt have any drugs .

They gave me a shot of anaesthetic, and my tour guide had to go out the local pharmacy to buy some pain relief.

After they sewed up my foot, I was taken into a room to recover. There was blood on the floor, and I wasnt sure if it was my blood or someone elses.

There was an ants nest in the bathroom and there were no mosquito nets.

Due to the lack of medical facilities in the area, Claire was transferred to Rurrenabaque, Bolivia - a four-hour drive away.

Claire said: We were warned that if it started to rain, we could get stuck because the roads were just mud.

It started to rain while we were driving, and the car was sliding around all over the place  it was terrifying.

Once they arrived in Rurrenabaque, the hospital was full and Claire had to stay in a nearby hostel.

Claire explained: A man came to check on me four times a day to give me antibiotics, but he wasnt really paying attention to my foot.

Her wound became infected, and she required urgent medical treatment from Cemes Hospital in La Paz, Bolivias capital city.

After frantic calls to the British embassy, Claire managed to fly to the capital the following day, where she underwent a surgical clean to treat the infection and remove the dead tissue.

Claire, who is currently unable to work due to her injuries, said: After the surgery, I basically had a huge hole in my foot.

I spent two weeks in hospital in La Paz before I was able to fly home to the UK.

By the time I eventually returned home, I went straight to A&E and was told I had another infection.

I had to have a second surgical clean, and then skin flap surgery where tissue from my groin was transplanted to my foot.

They also had to sew the blood vessels together to keep the blood flowing.

Its been really traumatic.

Ive only recently been allowed to put pressure on my foot, and I dont know how badly my mobility will be affected once it heals.

Claire Bye with friends at a river in Santa Rosa de Yacuma, Bolivia minutes before she was attacked by a dolphin (Courtesy Claire Bye / SWNS)

I personally think my foot looks a bit like a piece of pork wrapped in string at the moment.

Ive seen a psychologist to help deal with the trauma  I used to have daily flashbacks of the attack.

I used to really love wild swimming and I hope to be able to do it in the future, but Ill never swim with dolphins again.

I feel quite lost at the moment, I dont really know what to do.

I wish Id never gone back into the water, its hard to think about how life would be if it happened.

I was really disappointed that my travels were cut short so early. I had hoped I might be able to carry on, but as time went on I knew Id have to come home.

But after such a trauma, Im glad Im at home where everything feels safe and familiar.

What should have been a beautiful experience changed my life forever, its incredibly rare for dolphins to attack humans and I never thought it would happen to me.

Investigations are underway to determine why the dolphins attacked, as other people have been bitten while swimming in the river since, despite there now being warning signs.
WWE

Mercedes Mone made her debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) at Wrestle Kingdom 17 last month, marking the first time she had wrestled outside of WWE in over a decade.

Mone was last seen in WWE in May 2022, before she and Naomi walked out of a live Raw taping while they were the WWE Women's Tag Team champions.

But despite leaving WWE, Mercedes has stayed close to her former co-workers, with real-life BFF Bayley even travelling the whole way to Japan just to support her friend.

Jesse Grant - Getty Images

Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Bayley explained why it was so important to her to make the trip.

"I went there on my own," Bayley said (via Fightful). "There were a few of us that flew out there just because she's been there for all my big moments, you know, even as she hasn't been a part of the company.

"I've made my return. I've had my big matches; she's there for me. So, of course, I want to be there for her, and we've done so much together and WWE. She means so much to me and so much to the wrestling world. I have to be there for this moment."

Bayley went on to say that she flew out right after Monday's Raw had ended, and got to Japan two hours before the show started.



"I just knew how important it was to her, and she just loves this," she continued.

"Everybody knows how much she loves this and how much wrestling means to her, and how much WWE means to her, and she wouldn't be there without WWE. So I think it meant a lot to her that I was able to go."

Related: Mercedes Mone releases documentary on journey to NJPW

Bayley was also asked if she thinks Mone would ever make a return to WWE (where she was known as Sasha Banks).

"I'll say yes because this is her home," she said. "This is her dream, and I love to see what she's doing and what she's going to be doing over the next few months.

"She's going to literally take over the world, take the world by storm, but I know this is her home and where her heart is," Bayley added.

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"By her heart, I mean me, so she needs to come back to me, you know? I need her, I need my travel partner, but I'm gonna say yes like I'll never give up hope that she'll come back."

Catch up on Raw, Smackdown, NXT and all the big WWE action via the WWE Network or BT Sport. US viewers can access the WWE Network via Peacock.

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Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen made an unannounced trip to Kyiv on Monday to emphasize the Biden administrations continued support for Ukraine as the country prepares for Russias highly-anticipated spring offensive.

I bring to Kyiv a clear message from President Biden and the American people: We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, Yellen said during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Yellen said she particularly hoped to highlight the White Houses close partnership in providing economic and budgetary support for Ukraine.

As you have said, our support is not charity, Yellen told Zelenskyy. Its an investment in global security and democracy.

Yellens trip comes a week after President Joe Biden made his own surprise visit to Kyiv, a show of support that marked the one-year anniversary of Russias unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.



On Friday, the U.S. announced a new $10 billion aid package to Ukraine to support energy and budget costs, as well as $2 billion in security assistance. The U.S. has so far provided Ukraine with close to $50 billion aid, Yellen said Monday in Kyiv.

Just as your life is a part of the history of Ukraine  I believe that Ukraine is a central part of the history of the free world. And you are writing our history right now, Yellen said. As you do, I hope you know this: America stands with you in this fight for freedom. And we will be by your side to help you rebuild.
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Composite of cake stands

Courtesy of Anthropologie, John Derian, Williams Sonoma

It seems almost counterintuitive that a freshly baked cake deserves its very own serving plate, otherwise known as a cake stand or cake pedestal. But there's a practical reason why you should display your carefully created confection on something beautiful that elicits oohs and aahs when you set it on the table: A unique serving dish announces that it's time for dessert. And if you invest in something of heirloom quality, it's a piece that can be passed down to the budding bakers in your family one day in the far-off future.

If you've been placing your cakes on everyday dinnerware or flimsy paper plates, a whimsical, practical, or sleekly modern cake stand is a much better way to show off your labor of love. And there's no need to limit your display to cakespies, cupcakes, muffins, and babka also deserve to take the stand.

Anthropologie "Glenna" Cake Stand

If you're looking for a rustic cake stand, this one is for you. It'ss crafted from earthenware, which gives it its slightly weathered appearance. Made in Italy, this stunning piece provides timeless appeal, plus, it is dishwasher and microwave safe, so it will last for the long haul.

Glenna Cake Stand

Williams Sonoma "Famille Rose" Cake Stand

Inspired by traditional Chinese porcelain, this cake stand includes striking flora and fauna detail. It features a clear glaze and a red, ruffled rim as the finishing touches.

Famille Rose Cake Stand

Martha Stewart Jadeite Cake Stand

Take a cue from Martha and display your desserts in vintage-inspired fashion with her jadeite cake stand. It is made of durable glass that makes it perfect for routine use.

martha stewart jadeite green cake stand

Carson Acacia Wood Cake Pedestal

Opt for a natural cake stand, like this iteration made with acacia wood. The glass dome comes in handy to keep your cake and light bites, like cheese and fruit, protected during your get-together.

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Carson Acacia Wood Cake Pedestal

AHeirloom Maple Wooden Cake Stand

Truly a work of art, thanks to the swirling FSC-certified wood grains and unique base, this cake stand will stand apart from any other serveware in your kitchen. It is made complete with a Corian top and mineral oil- and beeswax-based finish.

AHeirloom Maple Wooden Cake Stand

John Derian "Roses" Stacking Cake Pedestal

Consider adding a chic, decoupaged cake stand as the centerpiece for your tables. It is made with collaged paper under handblown glass. The made-to-order pieces, which take between two to four weeks to create, are produced with antique and vintage prints.

Roses Stacking Cake Pedestal

Connected Goods Brass Cake Stand

Both chic and simple, this brass cake stand is an amazing piece to keep in your cabinets for a special occasion. Each is one-of-a-kind, handcrafted by artisans.

Connected Goods Brass Cake Stand

Estelle Hand-Blown Color Glass Cake Stand

Hand-blown by artisans in Poland, a country renowned for its delicate glassware, this 12-inch cake stand takes its style cues from antique shop finds of yesteryear. Available in pastel shades of rose, smoke, lavender, and yellow.

Estelle Colored Glass Hand-Blown Cake Stand

Pillivuyt Porcelain Cake Stand

What better pedestal to present our chocolate-flecked layer cake with lush milk chocolate frosting than this 14-inch hand-fired porcelain classic with a gently raised rim? It's made in France by Pillivuyt, a venerable tableware producer and is available in 11 -inch and 14-inch sizes.

chocolate cake on white cake stand

Frontgate "Amelie" Single-Tier Cake Server with Cloche

While nothing can outshine your mouth-watering baked goods, this gorgeous stainless-steel and aluminum cake server comes close, thanks to its polished, metallic-plated finish in nickel or gold. The finishing touch: a clear glass cloche to keep your cake fresh.

Amelie Single-Tier Cake Server with Cloche

Mosser Glass Glass Cake Stand

Our triple-layered strawberry sponge cake wrapped in strawberry-meringue buttercream is irresistible, especially when served on a vintage-inspired, 10-inch glass stand in matching pink from legendary Ohio maker, Mosser Glass. Also available in 6-inch and 12-inch sizes, with and without dome covers, in a wide range of colors.

Strawberrt cake on pink cake stand

JK Adams Marble and Walnut Rotating Cake Stand

Take this unique rotating cake stand for a spin every time you slice, or even while you frost your cake layers. Constructed with a sturdy walnut base and a finished marble top that keeps your cake coolit's not only practical but beautiful to behold.

JK Adams marble and walnut rotating cake stand

Julie Hadley "Wabi Sabi" Ceramic Cake Stand

With its adorable overhang and petite dimensions, this fanciful, 8-inch ceramic stoneware stand, handmade by ceramist Julie Hadley, is the ideal platform for tarts, cookies, and other sweet pleasures.

Julie Hadley Handmade Wabi Sabi Ceramic Cake Stand

West Elm Marble and Brass Cake Stand

Showcase your frosted layer cakes, cupcakes, and most any confection in style with this 12-inch stand featuring a solid marble top and snazzy brass-finished steel pedestal.

Marble and brass cake stand

Le Creuset Enamel Cake Stand

Made from dense stoneware, this sturdy 12-inch pedestal is glazed with an impermeable, nonstick enamel that stands up to knives, allowing you to cut right on the surface, and also resists cracks and scratches. Choose from red, white, or blue.
Theres not one, but two major cattle calls of 2024 Republican hopefuls this week.

While Donald Trump headlines CPACs large annual confab of activists, conservative media and firebrands in Washington, D.C., Ron DeSantis is set to be the main draw at the Club for Growths private retreat for donors in Palm Beach. The dueling events come as the Republican party stares down a fraught nominating process.

The events are set to take place at the exact same time  Thursday through Saturday. Theres also little overlap between the speakers and attendees, another sign that the conservative ecosystem is engaged in a battle for the future of the party, with Trump as a main divide.

Former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy are the only presidential candidates bridging the two gatherings, though the lesser-known Ramaswamy is not yet registering on public polling of the potential 2024 field.



Despite being a nearby resident in Palm Beach, Trump was not invited to the Clubs retreat this week at The Breakers luxury resort. The conservative group has been open in its desire to move beyond Trump, who has responded with harsh criticism for the organization.

But other potential 2024 candidates are attending Club for Growths retreat are former Vice President Mike Pence, Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, POLITICO has confirmed. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.), who are not signaling interest in a presidential run next year, are also set to speak to donors.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will speak at CPAC, a conference that over the past five years has increasingly aligned itself with Trump and Trumpism. Pompeo and Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin were invited to attend the Club for Growth retreat, but a person familiar with their schedules said they had scheduling conflicts.

As CPAC has remained closely aligned with Trump  the conservative outfit has celebrated Trumps success in its straw polls while having him return to events throughout the year  the Club for Growth has largely severed ties with the former president.

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And while the Club has opened its donor retreat to a slate of prospective candidates not named Trump, the anti-tax organization appears to be putting much of its weight behind DeSantis. The day before Trump announced his presidential campaign in November, the Club for Growth released polling showing the Florida governor leading over Trump by double-digits in early nominating states.

The Club and its president, David McIntosh, have endured a tumultuous relationship with the former president, first opposing him in 2016 before embracing Trump as an ally in the years to follow. McIntosh influenced some of Trumps high-profile endorsements in the 2022 midterms, though the two men clashed over contentious Senate primaries in Ohio, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Trump earlier this month referred to the organization as The Club For NO Growth and suggested he was fine without their support, posting on his Truth Social website that the group was an assemblage of political misfits, globalists, and losers.

They said I couldnt win, I did, and won even bigger in 2020, with millions of more votes than 16, Trump continued, then claiming, without evidence, that the Election was Rigged & Stolen.

Club for Growth donated last year to DeSantis reelection bid, as well as to a super PAC supporting Tim Scott, another potential Trump rival in a 2024 Republican presidential primary.

Haley has also found herself in a complicated relationship with Trump, who appointed her as U.N. ambassador after initially criticizing Trumps 2016 candidacy. Since then, Haley has cycled through criticism and praise for Trump. She previously said she would not run if Trump sought reelection, though ultimately changed course and has called for a new, younger generation of conservative leadership without directly attacking Trumps policies.



By making an appearance at both events, Haley and Ramaswamy are attempting to make in-roads with both the pro- and anti-Trump conservative movements as they seek to bolster their name recognition and support ahead of a potentially crowded field in the coming months.

Nachama Soloveichik, an adviser to Haley, said the former South Carolinas choice to attend both events shows shes decisive and bringing her message all across the country. When others sit on the sidelines, Nikki Haley puts in the work, in Iowa, in New Hampshire, at conservative gatherings, Soloveichik said in a statement.
Nicole and Mahamoud, 90 Day: The Other Way Season 4

TLC

It's safe to say 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way's Nicole isn't thrilled to be back in Egypt with Mahmoud.

After an airport argument upon her arrival, Nicole arrived at her new home  his mother's house. Without a minute to talk about their disagreement, she was carted into a family party. Apparently, it's an everyday occurrence.

"Sometimes it sounds like there are 700 people in your apartment," Nicole told Mahmoud on Sunday night's episode. She processed the fact that she'd be moving in with not just Mahmoud, but also his social butterfly mom.

"They're all so kind and loving and wonderful, but I just need a little more space where I can be myself," Nicole told cameras of the extended family, who come over every day with at least six children.

RELATED: 90 Day: Red Flags Keep Popping Up for Nicole and Mahmoud as His Family Dubs Him a 'Little Spoiled Sweetheart'

Mahmoud El Sherbiny

Mahmoud El Sherbiny/Instagram

Later, as the chaos of a family party bumped in the other room, Nicole added, "After a long day, it can be extremely overwhelming for me  a person who is very introverted and used to living alone and in a quiet environment  to have really loud all of the time. The kids are talking, the adults are talking, they're all just talking," she said.

RELATED: 90 Day's Nicole Says Mahmoud Wanted Her to 'Live on a Planet of Only Women' amid Pair's Dramatic Fallout

As they retreated to their own bedroom, Nicole and Mahmoud were anything but affectionate. Nicole reminded Mahmoud that she's an introvert, and the constant presence of his family members was already beginning to drain her.

"I'm happy we're trying to make this work and everything, but you know that Egypt is super overwhelming for me," she told Mahmoud.

He responded, "I know it's too much for you, but I need you to handle that more." When Nicole suggested they find their own apartment, Mahmoud said, "You just need [to] live here," later adding, "for a while, see what life [is really] like here."

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The couple did have their own apartment once  right after they got married. According to Mahmoud, Nicole stayed in Egypt "one or two months" before she decided to move back to America.

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.

90 Day Fiance: The Other Way airs Sundays at 8 p.m. ET on TLC.
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The TOEFL test (TOEFL), which stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, is one of the international English language tests held by the ETS Institute in more than 150 countries. The TOEFL is one of the most reliable tests in the world, which is officially recognized in almost all countries, therefore, TOEFL certificate is valid in more than 11 thousand universities as they consider it valid and necessary for the students application.

Its good to mention that the TOEFL test was initially designed and conducted on paper. But in 1998, it became a computerized test, and then an internet based test or TOEFL iBT in 2005.

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TOEFL iBT and TOEFL pBT are different from each other; so they're scored differently. The TOEFL iBT is made up four sections that were mentioned earlier. Each section is first scaled separately between 0-30. Then the four scores are added up together for a final score which is between 0-120.

ETS, the designer and administer of the TOEFL test, gives little information about the way the pBT test is scored, so it's hard to calculate and predict it. But in general, the TOEFL pBT test score is between 310-677.

TOEFL iBT Test Levels

The CEFR standard is a European main standard for the English and other languages in the world. Based on the CEFR standard, language levels are divided into 6 levels. These levels can be divided into three larger ones: basic, intermediate, and advanced levels. The levels of the TOEFL iBT test according to the CEFR standard are as follows:

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A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck southern Turkey at about 8 p.m. local time Monday, near its shared border with northern Syria. The quake, centered in Turkey's Hatay province, came two weeks after the same region was devastated by a series of earthquakes and aftershocks that killed more than 46,000 people and reduced towns and city blocks to rubble.

Monday's earthquake, which occurred around noon ET, was originally reported as a magnitude 6.4 with a depth of 10 kilometers by the United States Geological Survey, which has since revised the measurement to 6.3.

AFAD, the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority in Turkey, confirmed in one of several messages shared on Twitter that the latest earthquake occurred in Hatay. Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu said at a news conference that at least 213 people were wounded and three people had died in Turkey as a result of the tremor. In Syria, authorities had recorded at least 120 injuries.

As a precaution, the agency advised in the quake's immediate aftermath that people avoid the area's coastline, noting that sea levels could rise as much as 50 cm, or just under 20 inches, as a result of the disaster. AFAD removed the warning about an hour later, saying in a separate social media update that potential changes in water levels no longer posed serious threats. It cited input from the Kandilli Observatory and Earthquake Research Institute, which is located outside of Istanbul and had been monitoring the repercussions of the tremor.

The epicenter of the 6.3-magnitude quake was in the Hatay province's Defne district, according to AFAD, where a magnitude 7.8 quake also originated earlier this month. The disastrous tremor on Feb. 6 shook the region, displacing roughly 1 million people in Turkey and Syria and leaving at least 46,000 dead, with many caught beneath the ruins as estimates suggested more than 3,400 buildings had collapsed. Minutes after the initial aftershock hit Hatay on Monday, the Turkish emergency management agency recorded another, slightly smaller tremor, which it measured at a magnitude 5.8. Numerous smaller quakes were recorded across the surrounding region, which is not unusual.

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A general view of damage following a deadly earthquake, as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu take a helicopter tour of earthquake-stricken areas of Hatay Province, Turkey, on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2023. / Credit: Clodagh Kilcoyne/Pool Photo via AP

Turkey's Hatay province sits along the Mediterranean coast and shares southern and eastern borders with Syria. In Aleppo, one of Syria's most populous metropolitan areas, second only to the capital, Damascus, local news organizations reported that at least 70 people were hospitalized in the hours following the latest earthquake.

Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay said in one of several announcements after Monday's earthquake hit that authorities would continue to investigate the natural disaster and its consequences. Oktay urged people to follow standard safety protocols and avoid damaged buildings in the region. Turkey's state news agency, Andalou, reported that the quake was felt in Syria, Jordan, Israel and Egypt.

Meanwhile, Syria's state news agency, SANA, reported that six people were injured in Aleppo as a result of falling debris, according to the Associated Press. The mayor of Hatay said multiple buildings had collapsed, trapping people inside, the AP reported.

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President Biden said a Chinese-brokered peace plan between Russia and Ukraine is not rational in a new interview, noting that the proposed plan would only benefit Russia.

ABC Newss David Muir asked Biden in an interview released Friday what he thought of Chinese peace proposal that Russian President Vladimir Putin applauded last week.

I think you answered the question, Putins applauding it, so how could it be any good? Im not being facetious. Im being deadly earnest, Biden told Muir. Ive seen nothing in the plan that would indicate that there is something that would be beneficial to anyone other than Russia if the Chinese plan were followed.

Its the idea that China is going to be negotiating the outcome of a war thats a totally unjust war for Ukraine is just not rational, he continued.

China called for a cease-fire in the Ukraine-Russia war on Thursday and outlined a 12-point plan to negotiate peace. The plan includes ending hostilities, resuming peace talks and addressing the humanitarian crisis the war created.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signaled some openness to Chinas proposal, saying that China discussing Ukraine was not bad at a press conference on Friday, The Associated Press reported. However, he also said that he disagrees with some of the plans proposals, but wants to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier this month that China is strongly considering sending Russia lethal assistance in its war with Ukraine. The Pentagon warned this week China would face consequences if it does provide weapons to Moscow.

Biden visited Ukraine in a surprise trip to the country last week, marking the one-year anniversary of the Russian invasion. He then delivered remarks in Poland, promising that the U.S. and other Western allies would continue to support Ukraine throughout the end of the war.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - Brascan Gold Inc. (CSE: BRAS) ("Brascan" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its board of directors has approved, in principle, a strategic reorganization of the Company's assets pursuant to which the Company would spin off its Alegre Gold project in Para State, Brazil (the "Alegre Property") into a newly created entity ("SpinCo"), which would seek an independent listing on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Spin-Out"). In connection therewith, the Company would change its name to "Brascan Resources Inc." and would continue to hold its interests in Quebec-Li properties in northern Quebec and the Albany Forks Rare Earth Elements (REE) property in northern Ontario, with a view to focusing on only battery metals and similar projects, with SpinCo focusing entirely on gold projects.

It is anticipated that the Spin-Out would be carried out by way of statutory plan of arrangement pursuant to the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Under the terms of the Spin-Out, shareholders of the Company would receive common shares of SpinCo in proportion to the number of common shares of the Company that they hold as of the effective date of the Spin-Out. There would be no change in shareholders' holdings in the Company as a result of the Spin-Out.

In connection with the Spin-Out, the Company would complete a non-brokered private placement (the "Financing") into SpinCo of on terms to be determined, the net proceeds of which would be used to fund, among other things, the working capital of SpinCo and exploration at the Alegre Property.

The proposed Spin-Out would be subject to the approval of the Company shareholders, which the Company would seek at its 2023 annual general and special meeting of shareholders (the "Shareholders' Meeting"). The date for the Shareholders Meeting has not yet been determined. The Spin-Out would also require the approval of the British Columbia Supreme Court.

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In connection with the Spin-Out, the Company would seek a listing of the SpinCo common shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange. No assurance can be provided that such a listing would be obtained and any such listing would be subject to SpinCo fulfilling all of the requirements of the applicable stock exchange.

Further details of the Spin-Out, including the date for the Shareholders' Meeting and the number of SpinCo common shares to be granted to shareholders of the Company will be announced in the near future. Shareholders are cautioned that the final details of the Spin-Out are still to be determined and there is no certainty that the Spin-Out will be completed on the terms currently proposed or at all.

Balbir Johal, CEO of Brascan, states, "our name change to Brascan Resources Inc. will better reflect our pure focus on battery metals, including in two world class hard rock lithium districts, the James Bay area in Quebec and Minas Gerais in Brazil." Mr. Johal further states, "through the Spin-Out, SpinCo will become a purely focused gold company owned by Brascan shareholders, which we believe will increase shareholder returns if SpinCo is successfully listed on the CSE as planned."

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The 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.

About the Company

Brascan (CSE: BRAS) is a Lithium and Gold exploration issuer based in Vancouver, B.C. BRAS owns a 100% interest in the Quebec-Li properties in northern Quebec. The Company also owns 100% of the Albany Forks Rare Earth Elements (REE) property in northern Ontario and an option to earn 100% of the Alegre Gold Project in Para State in Northeastern Brazil.

For more information, investors should review the Company's filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

Contact Information

Balbir Johal

Director and CEO

Telephone: 604 812 1747

Email: bjohal75@gmail.com

Forward-Looking Statements

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Russian President Vladimir Putin is not a "sentimentalist" when it comes to the massive loss of life his troops are facing in Ukraine and believes he can exhaust Ukraine and the West and ultimately win the war, CIA Director Bill Burns said Sunday.

Burns, speaking on CBS's "Face the Nation," said the United States must provide full material and intelligence support in coming months to "puncture that hubris on Putin's part" and regain momentum on the battlefield. He said Putin is convinced he "can't afford to lose" so he will attempt to drag out the war.

"Putin's view of Americans, of us, has been that we have attention deficit disorder, and we'll move on to some other issue eventually," Burns said. "So instead of looking for ways to either back down or find a famous off ramp, you know, what Putin has done is double down.''

Friday marked a grim milestone: one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. During this time, the U.S. pledged about $113 billion in assistance to Kyiv, more than half in the form of military aid, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.

Amid domestic struggles ranging from spiraling living costs to rising refugee arrivals, polls show Americans are growing less enamored with providing arms to Ukraine.

People walk in front of a TV screen showing Russian President Vladimir Putin during his annual state of the nation address Tuesday.

Latest developments:

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marked the anniversary of Russia's occupation of Ukraine's Crimea, tweeting: "9 years ago, Russian aggression began in Crimea. By returning Crimea, we will restore peace. This is our land. Our people. Our history. We will return the Ukrainian flag to every corner of Ukraine."

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, appearing on NBC's Meet the Press and other Sunday news shows, said the United States is providing parts for Ukraine's fleet of Soviet-era jets, but that supplying F-16s is really a question for another day, for another phase of the war.

GOP Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, wants Sullivan and the Biden administration to answer the question now and provide Ukraine longer-range missiles. "When we give them what they can really use and ask for, they win,'' he told ABC's "This Week."

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NATO can provide Ukraine with 62 of the German-made Leopard 2 tanks and "then we will see how the course of the war changes after that, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius told the Deutschlandfunk radio network Sunday. Ukraine has requested 300 tanks.

Putin accuses West of trying to destroy Russia

The West wants to eliminate Russia, and ethnic Russians may not survive as a distinct people if the West succeeds, Putin said in an interview Sunday on state-owned TV. Putin accused the United States and its allies of having "one goal: to disband the former Soviet Union and its fundamental part  the Russian Federation."

His pitch that the West is conspiring against Russia has been a recurring theme in Putin's effort to tamp down anti-war dissent.

There will be Muscovites, Uralians and others, he said of Russias possible fragmentation into regional groupings. The West could only partly accept Russia into the so-called family of civilized peoples, breaking the country into separate pieces, he theorized.

Putin also said Russia suspended participation last week in the New START nuclear treaty not only because of U.S. nuclear capabilities but those of other NATO countries. He said Russia cant accept U.S. inspections of its nuclear sites while Washington and NATO allies seek Russias defeat in Ukraine. But he reiterated that Moscow was not withdrawing from the pact, and his Foreign Ministry said Moscow would respect the treaty caps on nuclear weapons and continue notifying the United States about test launches of ballistic missiles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attends a commemorative event in Kyiv on Friday, the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion.

Russia's drones lose effectiveness but still useful as decoys

The lack of reports about drones launching attacks in Ukraine since mid-February probably indicates the Russians have run out of the Iranian-made weapons, though they'll likely order more, the British Defense Ministry said in an update.

The drones were initially effective at damaging civilian infrastructure, but the Ukrainians became more adept at shooting them down, including at least 24 between late January and early February, the ministry said.

"Although the weapons do not have a good record in destroying their intended targets,'' the ministry said, "Russia likely sees them as useful decoys which can divert Ukrainian air defenses from more effective Russian cruise missiles.''

The Saudi ministry said representatives of the two nations discussed "opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two friendly countries" and ways to support each other in various fields.

"Grateful to Prince @FaisalbinFarhan for constructive dialogue and mutual understanding," Yermak said in tweets that included photos of Yermak and the prince.

Ukraine says it repelled latest Russian push near hotly contested Bakhmut

Russian forces have attacked almost two dozen communities near Bakhmut, a city in the Donetsk province and the focus of much of the fighting in recent weeks, the Ukraine military said Sunday.

The region remains divided between Ukrainian and Russian control, while Russia has seized most of the Luhansk province. Together they form the eastern Donbas region that has been the focus of Putin's war.

Weeks of intense fighting with heavy casualties have barely moved the frontlines. The owner of the Russian mercenary force Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said his fighters had advanced into a settlement on Bakhmut's northern edge, but the Ukrainian military disputed that claim, saying Russian forces were repelled.

"The adversary keeps attacking the positions of Ukrainian troops," the Ukraine military said on Facebook. "Enemy offensives were unsuccessful."

Ukrainian servicemen of the 3rd Separate Tank Iron Bridge take part in an exercise in the Kharkiv area, Ukraine, Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023, the day before the one-year mark since the war began. War has been a catastrophe for Ukraine and a crisis for the globe and the world is a more unstable and fearful place since Russia invaded its neighbor on Feb. 24, 2022.

Saudi Arabia to provide Ukraine with $400M in humanitarian aid

Saudi Arabia agreed to provide Ukraine with $400 million in humanitarian aid, Ukraine and Saudi officials said Sunday.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan led the kingdoms delegation to Kyiv, meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the presidential residence. The prince also met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Andriy Yermak, Zelenskyy's chief of staff.

Russia claims to have destroyed thousands of Ukrainian tanks

The Russia Ministry of Defense claimed Sunday to have destroyed 390 Ukrainian airplanes, 211 helicopters, 3,243 drones, 405 air missile systems, 8,042 tanks and other armored fighting vehicles and 1,045 fighting vehicles equipped with multiple launch rocket systems since the war began a year ago. The ministry also claimed 4,222 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 8,556 units of special military vehicles, have been destroyed since the invasion began.

The ministry did not estimate the number of Ukrainian soldiers or civilians it had killed, nor did it announce its own losses.

Contributing: Kim Hjelmgaard USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ukraine updates: Russia destroys Ukranian tanks
Crypto exchange CoinFLEX is demanding that Blockchain.com return $4.3 million worth of FLEX coins or face legal proceedings, claiming it lent the Luxembourg-based financial services company a combined 3,000,000 FLEX coins last year, according to a demand notice obtained by Decrypt.

This is completely false, Blockchain.com told Decrypt in response.

The Feb. 24 dated notice asserts that Blockchain.com has until March 7 to confirm it will repay the FLEX coins, and sets a deadline of March 21 for Blockchain.com to send the funds. Otherwise, CoinFLEX says the exchange will face the commencement of legal proceedings, including but not limited to a formal demand for payment called a statutory demand.

From then, Blockchain.com would still have an additional 21 days to repay the funds, which consist of four loans allegedly issued between March and June of last year, according to the document.

You have failed, refused, and/or neglected to repay the 3,000,000 FLEX coins that are long overdue to be repaid, the letter to Blockchain.com states. If our client is compelled to enforce its legal rights against you [...] it will naturally look towards you for the maximum amount of interest and costs that is recoverable at law.

The demand is based on an AMM+ (automated market maker) Participation Agreement allegedly entered into on April 12, 2022, when Bitcoin struggled at $40,000. Whether that agreement even exists is in dispute.

CoinFLEX has provided no evidence, documentation, or on-chain data to support their claims, the Blockchain.com statement read.

CoinFLEX Users Irate Over Leaked GTX Pitch Deck From Three Arrows Founders

The letter sent to Blockchain.com was from a Singapore-based law firm called Nine Yards Chambers LLC, which confirmed to Decrypt that it sent the letter and that CoinFLEX is its client.

CoinFLEXs claim is completely meritless and a work of fiction from an insolvent company currently being sued by its customers for dissolution, Blockchain.com said. In fact, CoinFLEX owes Blockchain.com for services rendered which remain unpaid at this time, and we will soon initiate collection.

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CoinFLEX entered restructuring proceedings in a Seychelles court last August, where it seeks to raise $84 million to pay off its own debt. The exchange was cofounded in 2019 by Sudhu Arumugam and CEO Mark Lamb.

We hope that common sense will prevail and that we will be repaid the FLEX we are owed, Lamb told Decrypt.

Meanwhile, Blockchain.com faces its own financial challenges. The firm has been trying to sell some of its assets to patch a $270 million hole in its balance sheet, one stemming from cash and crypto that it lent to bankrupt hedge fund Three Arrows Capital (3AC), Decrypt previously reported.

Blockchain.com Shopping Assets to Fill $270M Hole From Three Arrows Capital: Sources

The co-founders of 3AC Su Zhu and Kyle Davies have recently emerged as business partners to Arumugam and Lamb, who are all working together to establish a new venture called Open Exchange (OPNX).

A pitch deck that was leaked last month revealed the four were looking to raise $25 million to establish the company. It described Open Exchange as a hub for customers that want to trade bankruptcy claimsspecifically those related to numerous crypto companies that collapsed last year like the exchange FTX.

The leak drew ire from some members of CoinFLEXs official Telegram channel. You dont want to be associated with 3AC, one user stated. Think about this carefully.

3AC was one of the largest crypto-centric hedge funds when it imploded last summer, filing for bankruptcy after it sustained heavy losses from the collapse of Terra's UST stablecoin and governance token LUNA.

Weeks after the pitch deck began circulating, OPNX was officially announced by Zhu, who stated FLEX coin will be the primary token of the new exchange.

13/ it is with humility that we announce the claims waitlist is now open, with site UI/UX beta testing coming very soon: https://t.co/uFZUNn9PBq & for those who asked, yes $FLEX will be the primary token of the new exchange  Zhu Su  (@zhusu) February 9, 2023

FLEX coin was originally established as the native token for CoinFLEX, providing users with exclusive benefits that [make] trading on CoinFLEX much better, according to the exchanges website, such as lower fees.

Though the coin has rallied around 180% to $1.46 over the past 30 days, FLEX remains roughly 80% down from its all-time high of $7.56 in December of 2021, according to CoinGecko, which also lists CoinFLEX as the only centralized exchange that still supports the token.

Crypto Exchange CoinFLEX Plans $84M Restructuring in Seychelles

While this latest letter addressed to Blockchain.com was allegedly sent to the company privately, Lamb has publicly aired a dispute involving CoinFlexs lending practices in the past.

A month after CoinFLEX froze withdrawals last May, citing uncertainty involving a counterparty, Lamb took to Twitter to claim that longtime Bitcoin evangelist Roger Ver owes CoinFLEX $47 million worth of the stablecoin USDC, adding a default notice had been served.

Roger Ver owes CoinFLEX $47 Million USDC. We have a written contract with him obligating him to personally guarantee any negative equity on his CoinFLEX account and top up margin regularly. He has been in default of this agreement and we have served a notice of default.  Mark Lamb  (@MarkDavidLamb) June 28, 2022

Ver denied the allegations that same day, stating he was the one that was owed a substantial sum of money and was undergoing steps to have the funds returned.

Recently some rumors have been

spreading that I have defaulted on a

debt to a counter-party. These rumors

are false. Not only do I not have a debt

to this counter-party, but this counter-

party owes me a substantial sum of

money, and I am currently seeking the

return of my funds.  Roger Ver (@rogerkver) June 28, 2022

Lamb declined to comment about the state of his dispute with Ver. Ver did not immediately respond to Decrypts requests for comment.

As Ver and Lambs quarrel continued, CoinFLEX announced last July that customers would be able to withdraw some funds from the exchange but in a limited fashion. The withdrawals were restricted to 10% of users funds and excluded the platforms stablecoin, flexUSD.
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Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex; Courteney Cox attends Celine at The Wiltern

Mike Coppola/Getty Images; Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

Courteney Cox knows about her appearance in Prince Harry's memoir, Spare.

The 58-year-old actress, who is mentioned in the book, spoke about the Duke of Sussex's book for the first time in a new interview with Variety, published Monday. Cox confirmed that Harry, 38, spontaneously stayed at her home when he visited Los Angeles a few years ago, adding that she "definitely" wasn't distributing the magic mushrooms Harry said he took during a party at her place.

"He did stay here for a couple of days  probably two or three. He's a really nice person," Cox told Variety. The Scream star also said she recently saw Prince Harry at a birthday party but didn't get the chance to say hello.

Cox admitted that while she hasn't yet read Spare, she's heard about Harry's recollection of taking psychedelics at her house.

"I haven't read the book. I do want to hear it, because I've heard it's really entertaining. But yes, it's gotten back to me about it," she said, referencing the much-discussed passage. "I'm not saying there were mushrooms! I definitely wasn't passing them out."

prince harry, courteney cox

Taylor Hill/WireImage; Rich Fury/Getty

RELATED: Prince Harry Recalls Tripping on Mushrooms During Party at Courteney Cox's House: 'I Was a Chandler'

In his bestselling book, published Jan. 10, Prince Harry revealed that he is a "Friends fanatic" and took comfort in the hit NBC sitcom while navigating panic attacks after completing his second tour of Afghanistan a decade ago. Harry wrote in Spare that he became anxious around crowds and cameras after returning to London, so he started staying home.

"Day after day, night after night, I sat around eating takeaway, watching 24. Or Friends. I think I might've watched every episode of Friends in 2013. I decided I was a Chandler," he said.

While visiting the U.S. two years later, the Duke of Sussex said it was surreal not only to attend a party at Cox's home but also to meet the Friends star herself. Prince Harry and two friends traveled to L.A. in January 2016, where they spent a few days party-hopping  and spent time at Cox's house.

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FRIENDS -- "The One with the Truth About London" Episode 16 -- Aired 2/22/2001 -- Pictured: (l-r) Courteney Cox as Monica Geller, Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing

NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images

RELATED: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Join Jennifer Aniston and Katy Perry at Ellen and Portia's Vow Renewal

"We went from the home of [my friend] Thomas' girlfriend to the home of Courteney Cox. She was a friend of Thomas' girlfriend, and had more room. Also, she was traveling, on a job, and didn't mind if we crashed at her place," Harry wrote. "No complaints from me. As a Friends fanatic, the idea of crashing at Monica's was highly appealing. And amusing. But then Courteney turned up. I was very confused. Was her job canceled? I didn't think it was my place to ask. More: Does this mean we have to leave?"

"She smiled. Of course not Harry. Plenty of room," he recalled. "Great. But I was still confused because she was Monica. And I was a Chandler. I wondered if I'd ever work up the courage to tell her. Was there enough tequila in California to get me that brave?"

Prince Harry book

PENGUIN RANDOM HOUSE The book jacket of Prince Harry's memoir 'Spare'

RELATED: Prince Harry Announces Surprise Spare Event  with a Special Guest

According to Harry, Cox invited a few more people over, and another party began. King Charles III's son said he was delighted to meet the actor from the "Batman LEGO movie"  alluding to Will Arnett  who indulged his request to do "the voice," which cracked him up.

"Then, maybe to get rid of us, he led my mate and me to the fridge, from which he extracted a soft drink. While the door was open, we spotted a huge box of black diamond mushroom chocolates," Harry wrote. "Somebody behind me said they were for everybody. Help yourself, boys. My mate and I grabbed several, gobbled them, washed them down with tequila."

Prince Harry and his friend then went outside to sit by a fire pit, where the mushrooms kicked in. Returning indoors a short while later to use the bathroom, Harry said he was spooked when he started seeing monsters.

"Beside the toilet was a round silver bin, the kind with a foot pedal to open the lid. I started at the bin. It started back. What  staring? I stepped on the pedal. A huge open grin," he wrote. "Now the loo became a head too. The bowl was its gaping maw, the hinges of the seat were its piercing silver eyes. It said: Aaah."

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Harry said he left the restroom "giggling," where he bumped into his pal who he took the mushrooms with. Later, the friend would confide in Harry that he had a similar trip in the bathroom, where his puffer jacket transformed into a "dragon" and freaked him out.

"My delightful trip had been his hell," Harry wrote in Spare. "How delightful. How interesting. I led him outside gently, and told him it would all be OK."

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Ellen Degeneres and Portia de Rossi

Mike Coppola/Getty; Kelly Sullivan/Getty

Prince Harry and Cox crossed paths again just a few weeks ago. Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Cox were among the guests who witnessed Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi's surprise vow renewal on Jan. 31.

The intimate event at DeGeneres and de Rossi's home was thought to be a 50th birthday party for de Rossi  however, the celebration was actually a vow renewal for the couple, who tied the knot in August 2008. The ceremony was officiated by Kris Jenner, and other guests included Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, Carol Burnett, Melissa Etheridge, Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom.
Seabourn is ready to take cruisers to the far reaches of Australia, Greenland, the South Pacific, and more.

Courtesy of Seabourn

Seabourn is ready to take cruisers somewhere completely new during the 2024-2025 sailing season.

On Feb. 23, the luxury cruise line announced its new expedition voyages, set to embark over the summer of 2024 and through the winter and spring of 2025 aboard its two newest vessels, Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit. According to a statement provided to Travel + Leisure, both ships will take passengers to remote corners of the globe, including the line's first trip to the Kimberley region in northern Australia.

These new expeditions are going to be thrilling and offer so many opportunities for guests to discover the natural and cultural wonders found in some of the farthest corners of the planet, including our first-ever visit to the Kimberley in Australia, said Robin West, vice president and general manager of expeditions, in the statement. Best of all, guests will be experiencing everything in the company of Expedition Team members who will bring the wonders of each destination to life. Were looking forward to many Seabourn Moments with our guests, filled with thoughtful experiences for reconnection, discovery, and adventure.

As Seabourn Pursuit travels through the Kimberley and South Pacific in June, July, and August of 2024, it will bring guests to see ultra-remote regions along the Ord River and to King George Falls, the highest waterfall in Western Australia. Guests can even hop on optional helicopter viewing tours of the Hunter River, dive along Montgomery Reef, and see the horizontal waterfalls of Talbot Bay.

But this isnt the only exciting forthcoming journey for Seabourn Pursuit. The ship will also take a series of 15-day trips to Papua New Guinea and West Papua in May, June, August, and September 2024 (guests can combine voyages for 35-day trips in this region). Travelers on these trips can dive and snorkel, and enjoy land adventures, like touring the village of Watam near Papua New Guinea's Ramu River. These itineraries will also explore the scenic Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia.

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Pursuit is also scheduled to sail through the South Pacific and along the coast of Chile on 14-, 17-, and 20-day journeys (guests can combine sailings for extended stays on this route, too). Those sailings will happen in the spring and fall of 2024 and visit the Juan Fernandez Islands and Easter Island off the coast of Chile, French Polynesia's Raiatea Island, the Yasawa Islands of Fiji, and Pentecost Island in Vanuatu.

As for the Seabourn Venture (which has not one but two onboard submarines), it will head out on three 14-day voyages between London and Edinburgh in April and May 2024. Guests can combine the two for an epic 28-day sailing, ensuring theyve left no travel stone unturned. Along the way, travelers will stop in the Orkney Islands, skirt along the Scottish Highlands, and visit charming U.K. seaside towns like Plymouth.



Those looking to take a farther-flung journey on Venture can hop on sailings through Norway, Greenland, Iceland, and the Canadian Arctic from June through September 2024, which includes 11- and 12-day Svalbard, Norway, itineraries; a 15-day voyage from Svalbard to Greenland to Iceland; an 11-day circumnavigation of Iceland, and 11- to 15-day trips to Iceland and Greenland; and a season-ending, 14-day voyage from West Greenland to St. Johns, Newfoundland. These trips include polar bear safaris, spectacular nights under the midnight sun, explorations of Greenlands capital, Nuuk, and even the chance to kayak through the largest icebergs in the northern hemisphere.

Both vessels will also be making their way to Antarctica in 2024 and 2025, with 11-, 13-, or 21-day options from October 2024 through mid-March 2025. No matter which sailing guests choose, theyll have the chance to spot a few plucky little penguins and majestic whales and walk along the edge of the world on the southernmost continent.

See more about the sailings and book your cruise at seabourn.com.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
Dan Istitene - Formula 1 - Getty Images

F1 roared back into action with a three-day test in Bahrain ahead of this weekends opening race at the same venue. Autoweek provides some behind-the-scenes news and notes from the full-field practice ahead of the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix on March 5:

Haas' Steiner Still Hasnt Seen  and Wont See  Drive to Survive

The fifth season of the docuseries Drive to Survive dropped on Netflix on Friday, coinciding with the build-up to the new season, and provided the usual insight into the past year. Haas F1 Team principal Guenther Steiner has been one of the breakout stars of the series, which has been credited with bringing a new and younger audience to Formula 1, but he has still yet to watch a single episode  and stressed that he has no interest in changing that stance.

Steiner is again one of the focal characters in Season 5, including one memorable borderline inaudible quote that was interpreted as either hugged or ***ed the whole paddock, which led to slightly curious expressions from onlookers and a very quick clarification.

Cost Cap Adjustments Revealed

Teams have been given a greater allowance on the cost cap this year. The base price, which was always set to reduce from $140 million to $135 million for 2023 per the original plan, remains unchanged.

But the cost cap adjustment for additional races beyond 21 has been increased from $1.2 million to $1.8 million. That was undertaken on the trend that additional races installed on the calendar have been towards fly-aways, which are more expensive for teams. Compared to 2022s schedule, Formula 1 has added races at Qatar and Las Vegas but lost only France.

That means the base budget cap for 2023 now stands at $138.6 million, rather than $137.4 million.

F1 to Introduce Winter Shutdown Period

Formula 1 will have two shutdowns per year from 2023 after a winter closing period was agreed by teams.

For several years Formula 1 teams have had to take a mandatory 14-day shutdown during the summer break but this has now been complemented by a period of non-activity in the off-season. Teams must close their factories between December 24 and January 1 (aside from the pre-existing exclusions) in order to give staff a bit of a break during the winter.

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NurPhoto - Getty Images

Overtaking Zone Changes for Early Events

The FIA will adjust the DRS zones for the opening Grands Prix with a goal of enhancing the quality of competition.

The changes, which are yet to be fully outlined, will be in force across the opening five events, and will "either facilitate overtaking, or make it harder in certain circuits where it was deemed not to be enough of a challenge."

Additionally, a fourth DRS zone in Melbourne, which was given a tryout in 2022, will be available in 2023. In DRS zones drivers may open the adjustable rear wing flap to increase pace during qualifying and when within one second of a rival in race trim.

Rueda Demoted to Factory Role at Ferrari

Charles Coates - Getty Images

Ferraris strategies were not exactly stellar in 2022. Several victories slipped through its fingers, most notably in Monaco and Hungary, because of calls made by the pit wall.

Ferraris chief strategist was Inaki Rueda but he has been shuffled aside to a factory-based role at Maranello.

Ravin Jain, who has been part of Ferraris strategy team for several years, will lead the group at race weekends. It is the first major personnel change undertaken by Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur following his arrival, from Alfa Romeo, in January.

Midseason Decision Planned for Tire Blankets



And finally, a decision is set to be taken mid-season on whether tire blankets will be outlawed from the 2024 season.

According to those in favor of the ban, there are sustainability and cost-cutting reasons behind the proposal. The thought is that that the elimination of the blankets will also provide a new dynamic to racing, with drivers fresh out of the pits having to quickly heat up tires.

Lewis Hamilton was the most vocal critic, suggesting the move would be dangerous, likely lead to a collision, and miss the sustainability targets on account of needing to use more fuel while trying to heat the tires on-track.

Other drivers were okay with the situation, suggesting there is no real issue, and a vote of Formula 1s stakeholders is expected in the summer months. Sole supplier Pirelli is set to undertake further tests before that vote.
Columbus, Ohio, USA; King Avenue United Methodist Church associate pastor Andy Burns and LGBTQ+ allies protest outside the Ohio Department of Education building.

Donte T. Boyd is an assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Social Work. Colby Tarrh is pursuing his Master of Social Work degree at Ohio State, where he works as a research assistant to Boyd. Micah Mitchell earned their bachelors and masters from the University of Cincinnati, and graduates with a Master of Social Work degree in May.

From detrimental legislative attacks to a general lack of lived and legal equality, the Ohio lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer community faces numerous inequities daily.

Opinion:'We need to keep politicians' hands off our daughters.' Anti-trans bills hateful.

Healthcare inequities are especially concerning.

Donte Boyd, Ph.D. Dr. Donte T. Boyd is an Assistant Professor at The Ohio State University College of Social Work. He also serves as a Visiting Research Faculty at Yale University School of Public Health through the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS (CIRA). He studies how families contribute to or prevent HIV prevention.

LGBTQ+ people suffer from higher rates of substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and mental illnesses. Despite an overwhelming need for comprehensive care, existing laws and Statehouse bills restrict the community's access.

Gay, bisexual, and transgender people are disproportionately affected by HIV in Ohio and across other states.

Needle not moving for communities of color

Rainbow Rose Center Vice President Maria McCargo Gable leads a march in support of the Black Lives Matter movement and the LGBTQ community, Saturday, June 27, 2020, in York.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention Black and Latinx gay and bisexual men made up 67% of all new HIV cases in 2019. Despite a federal initiative to reduce the number of new HIV infections by 90% by 2030, the increase in HIV cases demonstrates that the HIV epidemic is far from over.

Modern medical advances in HIV prevention, like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), have shown remarkable success in preventing new infections.

Even so, its adoption in Black and Latinx communities has not been adequate, demonstrating that existing efforts have not moved the needle for communities of color.

HIV prevention strategies and policies largely ignore that the fabric of education, healthcare, economic, and criminal legal systems is interlaced with structural racism and social inequalities. Some remote policies, such as the Ryan White program, help individuals pay for healthcare services and medication, but they are not enough to eliminate the HIV epidemic in Ohio.

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More:Ohio GOP reintroduces bill banning surgery, hormones for transgender minors

Those living with HIV criminalized

Inequitable laws around healthcare access and persecution due to health status are other issues in Ohio. Laws currently in effect actively discriminate against people living with HIV, punishing them with higher criminal penalties solely because of their health status.

Colby Tarrh Colby Tarrh is pursuing his Master of Social Work degree at OSU, where he works under Dr. Donte Boyd as a Research Assistant. Additionally, he is a policy and advocacy intern at the National Association of Social Workers Ohio Chapter.

For instance, physical assault by a person with HIV can be escalated and charged. Laws that impose harsher penalties on HIV-positive people, such as the ones in Ohio, create blatant inequities in the criminal legal system.

Opinion: Ohio law codifies fear, discrimination for people living with HIV/AIDS

Not only is this an inhumane view of criminality, but also unconstitutional, as it involves an invasion of an individual's right to privacy and creates an intentional inequity in punishment.

Moreover, such laws exacerbate the fear and stigma around HIV, which hampers prevention experts' efforts to avoid HIV spread in the state.

As the fear of receiving a positive diagnosis increase, the likelihood of engaging in preventive behaviors decreases.

Ohio legislators must stop criminalizing healthcare and repeal active laws if we are to counter the fear and stigma at the heart of the state's healthcare inequities.

Transgender youth targeted

The criminalization of LGBTQ+ healthcare in Ohio continues today as legislators introduce bills to ban lifesaving care for transgender and gender non-conforming youth.

In October of 2021, Ohio legislators introduced House Bill 454 to ban gender-affirming medical care for minors despite opposition from the American Academy of Pediatricians and the Endocrine Society.

Micah Mitchell, MS Micah earned their Bachelors and Masters from the University of Cincinnati, and graduates with their Master of Social Work degree in May. They works as a Graduate Research Associate at OSU and a Policy Fellow at the ACLU of Ohio.

The bill, while defeated in 2022, but was recently reintroduced. Among other things, the new version would give children on hormones 180 days to stop.

Existing options for the transgender and gender non-conforming community are already inadequate without such adverse legislation.

Fear of harm and harassment keeping people from seeking care

Healthcare practitioners' general lack of knowledge of transgender and gender non-conforming-affirming medical practices poses one of the most significant barriers to adequate healthcare.

It is not uncommon to fear seeking treatment as a transgender and gender non-conforming person; in a 2016 study, a national sample of transgender individuals found that 30.8% of participants did not seek health care due to discrimination.

The expectation of harm and harassment hinders many from seeking necessary services, especially regarding sexual health.

From HIV treatment to gender-affirming care and beyond, we must move past harmful stigmas that fuel oppressive legislation.

LGBTQ+ Ohioans deserve comprehensive healthcare. It is about time that our laws reflected this.

Donte T. Boyd is an assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Social Work. He also serves as a Visiting Research Faculty at Yale University School of Public Health through the Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS (CIRA). He studies how families contribute to or prevent HIV prevention.

Colby Tarrh is pursuing his Master of Social Work degree at Ohio State, where he works as a research assistant for Boyd. He is a policy and advocacy intern at the National Association of Social Workers Ohio Chapter.

Micah Mitchell earned their bachelors and masters from the University of Cincinnati, and graduates with a Master of Social Work degree in May. Michell works as a graduate research associate at Ohio State and a policy fellow at the ACLU of Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: What impact are legislative attacks having on LGBTQ+ Ohioans
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Thursday urged the West to turn the Black Sea into a "sea of NATO" a year after the sinking of a flagship Russian warship.
NEW YORK, February 27, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KBRA assigns deposit and senior unsecured debt ratings of BBB, a subordinated debt rating of BBB-, and short-term deposit and debt ratings of K3 for Anchorage, Alaska-based Alaska USA Federal Credit Union ("Alaska USA" or "the credit union"). The Outlook for all long-term ratings is Stable.

Alaska USAs ratings are supported by a seasoned management team with a strong track record serving the military community and a diverse, regional market with an expansive membership base and growing scale. The credit union also benefits from the tax-advantaged revenue streams, and the granular/lower risk nature of the consumer-oriented balance sheet with approximately three-fourths of total loans in prime new and used auto and residential mortgages. The credit union has a diversified revenue stream complimented by solid fee revenue with a 5-year average noninterest income to total revenue of 40% primarily through account and interchange fees. Alaska USA has also deepened its non-spread revenue with the addition of two insurance brokerage firms over the last two years partially offsetting the decline in mortgage origination income. Alaska USAs strong consumer banking profile is a key driver in its sound funding base which is 88% core funded by member shares. The credit unions cost of interest-bearing deposits has also historically fallen below rated peers serving to partially offset lower asset yields from lower risk lending categories. NCOs and NPAs typically run higher than similarly rated banks due to the inherent nature of the credit union model with Alaska USAs 5-year average NCO (0.31%) and NPAs (0.74%), which are adversely impacted by the unsecured loans in the portfolio. Alaska USA has navigated the COVID-19 pandemic well, relative to many credit union peers with peak NCOs of 0.35% in 2020. KBRA views the credit unions LLR of 0.35% as adequate at 0.65x NPAs at 4Q22 considering the loan portfolio collateral, granularity and short-term nature. KBRA notes Alaska USAs significant growth since the onset of the pandemic which has been primarily organic focused in 1-4 family and auto loans. The credit union has boosted its loan-to-deposit ratio to 100%, up from 86% in 4Q19. Despite the increased balance sheet leverage, Alaska USA still maintains a net worth ratio (NWR) of 9.3% which is a 230-bps buffer over the minimum for well-capitalized. The credit union has elected the Complex Credit Union Leverage Ratio (CCULR), in lieu of the Total Risk-Based Capital ratio, which is 9.3% at 4Q22 and only slightly above the 9.0% minimum. Historically, the credit union has managed its NWR below industry aggregate between 9.0% - 9.6% from 2012 to 2019.

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The ratings are based on KBRAs Bank & Bank Holding Company Global Rating Methodology published on November 8, 2021 and KBRAs ESG Global Rating Methodology published on June 16, 2021.

To access ratings and relevant documents, click here.

Click here to view the report.

Disclosures

Further information on key credit considerations, sensitivity analyses that consider what factors can affect these credit ratings and how they could lead to an upgrade or a downgrade, and ESG factors (where they are a key driver behind the change to the credit rating or rating outlook) can be found in the full rating report referenced above.

A description of all substantially material sources that were used to prepare the credit rating and information on the methodology(ies) (inclusive of any material models and sensitivity analyses of the relevant key rating assumptions, as applicable) used in determining the credit rating is available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) located here.

Information on the meaning of each rating category can be located here.

Further disclosures relating to this rating action are available in the Information Disclosure Form(s) referenced above. Additional information regarding KBRA policies, methodologies, rating scales and disclosures are available at www.kbra.com.

About KBRA

Kroll Bond Rating Agency, LLC (KBRA) is a full-service credit rating agency registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an NRSRO. Kroll Bond Rating Agency Europe Limited is registered as a CRA with the European Securities and Markets Authority. Kroll Bond Rating Agency UK Limited is registered as a CRA with the UK Financial Conduct Authority. In addition, KBRA is designated as a designated rating organization by the Ontario Securities Commission for issuers of asset-backed securities to file a short form prospectus or shelf prospectus. KBRA is also recognized by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners as a Credit Rating Provider.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005915/en/

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+1 (301) 969-3244

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(PA) (PA Wire)

Rishi Sunak will meet Ursula von der Leyen on Monday to discuss the range of complex challenges around the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Here are answers to some of the main questions about the Irish Sea trading arrangements.

What is the Northern Ireland Protocol?

Jointly agreed by the UK and EU, it was the part of the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement that dealt with the main obstacle in the divorce talks  the Irish land border.

To keep the border free flowing, London and Brussels essentially moved new regulatory and customs checks required by Brexit to the Irish Sea.

That has introduced red tape on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, creating a headache for many businesses and enraging loyalists and unionists who claim the regions place within the UK has been undermined.

There were some sporadic outbreaks of violence linked to the protocol following its introduction in January 2021, but they were not widespread or sustained.

How is the protocol linked to the political impasse at Stormont?

The powersharing institutions can only function with the co-operation of the largest nationalist party and largest unionist party.

The DUP has used its veto o bring down devolution in protest at the protocol.

Its boycott means a ministerial executive cannot function and the legislative assembly cannot conduct any business.

In the absence of ministers, civil servants are in charge of running public services but they are hamstrung in the decisions they can take and many laws and policy changes are unable to be progressed due to the political vacuum.

The DUP has made it clear it will only go back into devolved government if significant changes are delivered on the protocol.

What have the Government and the EU been doing to resolve the dispute?

The Government initially hailed the protocol as the breakthrough that got Brexit done, and then portrayed early trade disruption as teething problems.

However, former prime minister Boris Johnson began to change his public stance on the protocol soon after it became operational.

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His government subsequently claimed the protocol had upset the Good Friday peace agreements delicate balance of unionist and nationalist aspirations by undermining the east/west trade dynamic.

Relations between the EU and UK deteriorated sharply thereafter, with Brussels taking legal action against the UK for failing to honour its obligations under the protocol.

Stop-start negotiations between the UK and the European Commission rumbled on with little sign of progress and ill-feeling between London and Brussels increased when the Government tabled legislation at Westminster  the Northern Ireland Protocol Bill  that would have empowered ministers to unilaterally scrap the protocol without the EUs consent.

Pursuing such action, Brussels warned, would have been likely to prompt retaliatory action, triggering fears of a trade war.

However, the dynamic between the UK and EU appears to have improved markedly since Mr Sunak entered No 10.

The Prime Minister has appeared more inclined to secure a negotiated settlement with the EU and he paused progress of the Protocol Bill as officials resumed intensive talks aimed at getting an agreed solution.

What could a likely deal look like?

Both the EU and UK are in broad agreement on the need to differentiate between GB goods whose end destination is Northern Ireland, and those that are set for onward transportation into the EU single market via the unchecked land border with the Republic of Ireland.

It seems a deal would include the creation of so-called green and red lanes. NI-bound goods would enter ports via the green lane and would be subject to a much-reduced burden of paperwork. Those products destined for the Republic of Ireland would have to comply with the full extent of protocol checks.

Are there any potential sticking points?

The oversight role of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) could prove the main stumbling block.

While the protocol has created a trade barrier on GB/NI trade it also offers Northern Ireland traders dual market access to sell freely both within the UK internal market and into the EU single market. Advocates of the protocol insist the economic advantage created by this access must be retained in any deal.

Access to the single market is possible because, under the protocol, Northern Ireland essentially remains within the single market for goods. But, as such, the ECJ remains the final arbitrator of EU law issues in the region.

This issue is less about trade and more about sovereignty, with senior DUP figures and Eurosceptic Tory backbenchers in the European Research Group (ERG) vocal in their opposition to the continuation of EU law in Northern Ireland, especially when Stormont MLAs have no power to set or change those laws.

Any deal may seek to downplay the role of the ECJ, with an emphasis on the role of Northern Ireland courts in resolving the vast majority of trade disputes.

Whether that would be enough to convince the DUP and ERG to accept a deal remains to be seen.
Snow creates travel problems in Ontario, next storm on the horizon

A Colorado low and its various precipitation types, including rain, ice and snow, are expected to linger in southern Ontario into Tuesday. Luckily, the ice impact will not be nearly as great or widespread as last weeks winter storm.

The rain to ice pellets and freezing rain transition took place Monday afternoon along the Highway 402 corridor and up towards the Goderich area. This wintry mix is expected to persist until strong, southwesterly winds surge in a warmer and rainier air mass over the region.

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Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued freezing rain warnings across southwestern Ontario, expecting between 2-5 mm of ice accretion before it tapers off Monday overnight.

ALSO READ: Icy storm pelts Ontario, causing travel disruptions and multiple power outages

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) saw precipitation start off as snow Monday evening, leading to significant impacts on the evening commute across the region. Bursts of heavy snow and gusty winds of 50-70 km/h reduced visibility on many roadways including the 400-series highways.

5-15 cm total snowfall is forecast across the GTA, with higher amounts expected in higher elevations, away from the lakeshores.

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As temperatures rise above freezing overnight Monday, resulting in the falling snow to transition to some patchy freezing rain, roads and walkways will become slippery and hazardous for the Tuesday morning commute.

WATCH: Whiteout conditions hit southern Ontario as roads come to standstill

Click here to view the video

Similar to the GTA, communities along the eastern shore of Lake Ontario will also see 5-15 cm of snow, with the potential for mixed precipitation to make for even messier conditions.

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While eastern Ontario will not have to worry about mixed precipitation making a mess of things, it will be getting the brunt of the snow with this system. 10-15 cm of snow is expected along the Highway 401 corridor, in eastern Ontario and into the Ottawa area.

Beyond the early-work week, wintry mess, more systems are expected to follow as an active storm track sets up over the Great Lakes. Warm air to the south continues to fight back on Arctic air attempting to descend, spawning a stormy corridor the entire week.

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Another messy system with high snowfall totals is expected to eye southern Ontario Friday and into the weekend, so check back with us on the latest forecast for the storm coming late week.

Keep checking back to The Weather Network for more updates and information on your weather in Ontario.
Retired Maj. Gen. Michael Thompson, shown here speaking at the Veterans Day Ceremony at the 45th Infantry Museum in 2021, was appointed as the newest member of the Oklahoma County Jail Trust on Monday.

Retired Maj. Gen. Michael C. Thompson is returning to public service.

Thompson, who served Gov. Mary Fallin during her administration as Oklahoma's secretary of safety and security, as commissioner of the Department of Public Safety and as leader of the Oklahoma National Guard for Fallin and for Gov. Kevin Stitt, was appointed Monday to the Oklahoma County Jail Trust.

Thompson retired from the Oklahoma National Guard after serving as its adjutant general and serving as Oklahoma's secretary of the military for Fallin and Stitt between 2017 and November 2021.

He enlisted in the guard in 1983, received his commission three years later and deployed to Iraq in 2003 and 2008, plus played an integral role in the guard's response to Hurricane Katrina.

Due to another commitment, Thompson could not appear Monday before Oklahoma County commissioners to make a statement before they voted.

Commissioner Brian Maughan nominated the retired general to serve.

"He is interested and willing, so," Maughan said, "I am putting it forward for you guys to consider."

"I am certainly on board," Commissioner Myles Davidson said. "Given his background as head of Oklahoma's Department of Public Safety, he just brings a wealth of knowledge to this area."

Commissioner Carrie Blumert also applauded Thompson's appointment, noting it would return the trust to having a complete roster of nine members.

Commissioners unanimously approved Thompson's appointment to the trust.

Thompson's appointment comes at critical time for Oklahoma County jail

Thompson replaces Adam Luck, who resigned from the trust in early February.

His appointment to the trust comes as it faces the task of fixing health and safety issues at the aging, troubled Oklahoma County jail.

The trust will spend $175,000 to fix health and safety issues at the facility under a proposed settlement negotiated with the Oklahoma State Department of Health on Feb. 13. The Health Department is responsible for inspecting jails across the state.

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The agreement will require the trust to take care of cockroaches, bed bugs, dirty conditions and facility staffing issues.

The proposed agreement covers deficiencies inspectors repeatedly have identified and could be voided if the trust fails to adequately address them. Initially, state officials sought to fine the county $75,000, plus require it to address those concerns.

The trust is expected to vote on the settlement at its next meeting.

Thompson on Monday acknowledged the hurdles the trust faces in fixing the current facilities are numerous, but he asserted they can be overcome.

"I know there are a ton of challenges the the trust is faced with, and it isn't going to get any easier," Thompson told The Oklahoman. "We just need to incrementally start making decisions that are good for the public, good for the taxpayer and will enhance public safety.

"It is not like wine, it doesn't get better with time, so the sooner we are able to make incremental changes, I think the better off we all are.

"I have lived a life of service, and I have experience that would be helpful. I want to thank the commissioners for their confidence in my abilities, and I am very much looking forward to being a part of the team."

Timothy Tardibono, executive director of Oklahoma County's Criminal Justice Advisory Council, told county commissioners Monday he agreed Thompson's experience will be valuable toward helping evaluate the jail's ongoing staffing problems and its other operational issues.

"We are grateful for his service so far in his career and thank him for his willingness to continue that public service," Tardibono said.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Maj. Gen. Michael C. Thompson joining Oklahoma County Jail Trust
Rishi Sunak signed a new breakthrough Brexit deal on Northern Irelands trade on Monday in a bid to move forward together as one United Kingdom.

He met European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen at lunchtime in Windsor to finalise an agreement on the protocol.

The Prime Minister confirmed that MPs would get a vote on the new Windsor Framework at an appropriate time.

Together we have changed the original protocol and are today announcing the new Windsor Framework, he said.

Today's agreement delivers smooth flowing trade within the whole United Kingdom, protects Northern Ireland's place in our union and safeguards sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.

Mr Sunak said the deal was a decisive breakthrough" on post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Ms von der Leyen, who arrived in London on the Eurostar this morning, added that the agreement was historic.

We knew it was not going to be easy, she said.

We knew we needed to listen to each other's concerns very carefully. Above all, we had to listen to the concerns of the people of Northern Ireland. We knew we had to work hard with clear minds and determination.

Mr Sunak did not confirm when MPs would get to vote on the deal in the Commons.

Parliament will have a vote at the appropriate time and that vote will be respected, he said.

I think it's important that we give everyone the time and the space they need to consider the detail of the framework that we've announced today because it is comprehensive in nature and that will take time for people to digest.

Mr Sunak won strong backing from senior Tories to defy the Democratic Unionist Party and hardline Eurosceptic MPs if they seek to torpedo his new protocol arrangements.

They stated that this was a moment to show leadership and to make big calls under pressure.

They urged him to go for it and to get on with the reforms to ease tensions with the European Union, boost ties with the United States and restore powersharing in Northern Ireland.

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The deal introduces a new system of green and red lanes for goods travelling from Britain to Northern Ireland, stripping back paperwork and checks for good that will remain in the province.

But it also means Northern Ireland continuing to have to follow new single market laws, with the European Court of Justice also having an ongoing role.

Hardline Tory Eurosceptics were voicing deep concern over the plan on Monday morning, but it was expected to win the backing of the vast majority of MPs.

Im glad to be in the UK today to meet with Prime Minister @RishiSunak.



Im looking forward to turning a page and opening a new chapter with our partner and friend. pic.twitter.com/GuyMzy2wbj  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 27, 2023

Former Cabinet minister Sir Robert Buckland told Sky News: Taking some risks, making difficult decisions, grasping nettles is a really important part of what it is to be a leader. The Prime Minister is demonstrating that at the moment.

He added: I very much hope that he succeeds. It will be a demonstration of his resolution and his ability to under big pressure make those big calls.

Sir Robert Syms, former Tory party vice-chairman, said: Rishi is showing leadership. He is being cautious because he wants to bring as many people with him, which is a sensible approach. But nobody has a veto on this.

Ex-Cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg, though, signalled a possible Tory revolt if the Democratic Unionist Party does not support the deal, despite the major concessions by Brussels, including giving ground on tax, state aid and Stormonts say on new laws coming from Brussels.

He told GB News: If the DUP are against it, I think there will be quite a significant number of Conservatives who are unhappy.

He emphasised that the position of Boris Johnson, who led the Brexit campaign, would be fundamental.

The King was due to hold an audience with Ms von der Leyen at Windsor Castle later on Monday afternoon.

A palace spokesman said: The King is pleased to meet any world leader if they are visiting Britain and it is the Governments advice that he should do so.

Mr Rees-Mogg stressed that it would be a mistake for Ms von der Leyen to meet the King before MPs approve the deal.

Former Cabinet minister Sir John Redwood added: The main issue in EU talks is not the occasional intervention of the European Court but the continuous imposition of European law on a part of the UK.

The DUP and European Research Group were expected to examine the fine detail of the deal before coming to a firm position on whether to oppose or support it.

But other senior Tories urged Mr Sunak not to allow Brexit ultras to scupper his plans. Former Cabinet minister Sir David Lidington, chairman of the Conservative European Forum, said: If the Prime Ministers judgment is that he has got the best deal he can for the national interest of the UK, then he should go for it.

Sir Charles Walker, a former Conservative Party vice chairman, added: We must not let perfection be the enemy of the good. That is recognised now by the overwhelming majority of Conservative MPs.

Tobias Ellwood, Tory chairman of the Commons defence committee, urged MPs to continue supporting Mr Sunak as their party regroups following the chaos of the brief Liz Truss premiership.

He said: Governments get re-elected when they get policy across the line, work for the national interest and exhibit the high standards of statecraft that allows our country to punch above its weight. Governments dont get re-elected when they look divided, distracted and failing to put the nations interests first. The choice is simple.

The protocol, which was signed by Mr Johnson as premier in 2020, was designed to prevent a hard border with Ireland after Brexit. But it effectively created a border down the Irish Sea between mainland Britain and Northern Ireland, angering Unionists.

The DUP collapsed powersharing in Stormont last year in protest at its impact, leaving Northern Ireland without an executive or an assembly. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, who is seen as less hardline than other leading members of his party, has issued seven tests that Mr Sunaks new pact will have to meet in order to win the partys backing.

Chief among them is addressing what he calls the democratic deficit of Northern Ireland being subject to EU rules while not having a say on them.

DUP chief whip Sammy Wilson told Talk TV: We are not going to collaborate in the destruction of the Union. The protocol was breaking us away from it.

Some hardline Eurosceptics have urged Mr Sunak to keep the threat of unilaterally tearing up the protocol, through the Protocol Bill, to maximise pressure on Brussels to give ground. Meanwhile, the Conservative European Forum was today launching an inquiry to identify enterprise-led, practical improvements to the Brexit Trade and Co-operation Agreement.
Tech companies aim to end delivery driver confusion by creating new addresses that show drivers exactly where to go within massive apartment complexes and beyond. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

Confused delivery drivers add time, cost, and frustration to deliveries.

A lot of this confusion comes from addresses and entrances not matching up exactly.

Tech companies are looking to close the data gap between an address and a completed delivery.

There are few greater frustrations than knowing your delivery is, or was, close  and the carrier couldn't find your door.

"A typical driver might spend 10 minutes driving around an unfamiliar apartment complex, trying to find the right building and then the exact unit number, wasting time, fuel, and patience," said Evan Robinson, vice president of engineering or last-mile delivery startup AxleHire in a statement announcing the company's partnership with what3words  one of a handful of tech firms attempting to disrupt the address.

The English tech company throws out traditional addresses and instead divides the world into a grid of 10-foot by 10-foot squares. Each square is identified by a combination of three seemingly random words.

In a delivery scenario, the drive receives the code, which identifies the grid square containing the entrance as opposed to the traditional address. Recipients can also use the tech to identify a precise location for packages to be dropped (within 10 feet)  like the back door instead of the front.

In many cases, recipients enter their street address when they make the initial purchase and then see a question pop up asking them to specify a grid square. Then what3words generates the code for Axelhire to use when it's delivery time.

"This is a new way of thinking about addresses and collecting information," Robinson told Insider.

Axlehire became the first US last-mile delivery company to work with what3words in December, but the company had previously worked with global delivery companies, automakers, and emergency call centers in the UK, Australia, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Singapore, Canada, India, and South Africa.

Pooling local knowledge

Beans.ai is another company that's looking to cut down on wasted time and emissions with more precise address data  but this time built with shoe leather. The team has been building a massive database of practical address data for five years by paying gig economy drivers already delivering food, to record the exact steps needed to actually reach not just an address, but a doorstep.

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And it's not just finding the door. Beans collects data on other crucial details like doormen's hours and procedures for large packages  sometimes from drivers on the ground, sometimes by contacting builders and property management companies.

Cofounder Nitin Gupta came up with the idea when paramedics took 15 minutes to find his apartment after they'd arrived at the address following an emergency call for his mother, he told Insider last year. His mother survived, but it was close.

In addition to paying gig drivers to record info, Beans.ai collected decades of info that emergency responders still keep in binders full of notes on paper.

The result is an app and data service growing in popularity with delivery businesses of all kinds including Instacart, Uber Eats, and the small businesses that deliver for FedEx Ground. Gupta said the average use saves three-and-a-half minutes per delivery. That may not sound like a lot of value for consumers, but it's essentially $1 of labor per delivery saved for logistics companies, and it could mean a lot to the last few deliveries on a route, which are easily bumped to the next day when time is wasted wandering around vast apartment complexes.

Cofounder Akash Agarwal told Insider it also tends to drive 7-10% higher tips for drivers.

After tackling delivery to multi-tenant residential buildings, the company has moved on to even more confusing properties like hotels, hospitals, universities, and mobile home parks.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The U.S. is not currently considering sending F-16 warplanes to Ukraine, national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Sunday, doubling down on comments President Joe Biden made Friday.

"You don't think [Zelenskyy] needs F-16s now?" ABCs David Muir asked Biden in an interview at the White House on Friday.

"No, he doesn't need F-16s now," Biden responded.



Sullivan elaborated on the presidents comments Sunday, saying the United States is taking a very hard look at what it is that Ukraine needs for the immediate phase of the war that we're in. Right now, those needs include tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, artillery, tactical air defense systems Sullivan said  but not the advanced warplanes Ukraine has requested.

F-16s are a question for a later time, Sullivan said during an interview on CNNs "State of the Union." And that's why President Biden said that, for now, he's not moving forward with those.

When pressed by CNNs Dana Bash about whether that means the U.S. ruling out sending F-16s later on, Sullivan reiterated Bidens Friday comments.

What President Biden said is what goes across the administration. And he was very clear. He said: 'I'm ruling them out for now.'

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) argued Sunday that the Biden administration shouldn't wait, since Ukraine has "a window of time" to launch a successful counteroffensive that could soon close.

"When we slow-walk and slow-pace this thing, it drags it out," he said on ABC's "This Week."
Fort Bragg  From getting a new name to focusing on training for any future threats, activity at Fort Bragg is rolling along this year.

Here are five things to keep an eye on.

Theres an exercise for that

One of the 82nd Airborne Division's roles is being the nations Immediate Response Force, with units in the division prepared to deploy worldwide within 18 hours.

The force deployed to Poland last year in support of NATO during Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Paratroopers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division board a C-17 on Jan. 28, 2023, during a deployment readiness airborne operation exercise known as Operation Falcon Blitz at Fort Bragg, NC, Jan. 28, 2023.

Since returning, paratroopers participated in the monthlong Joint Readiness Training Center training rotation in November at Fort Polk, Louisiana, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team participated in a deployment readiness exercise last month and a proficiency jump this month.

More:'The demand is not going down': Fort Bragg, Army leaders look toward future of Army

Drugs

In a letter sent to concerned senators this month, the Department of Defense confirmed 31 fatal drug overdoses at Fort Bragg between 2017 and 2021.

In January, more than a dozen Special Operations Command soldiers were detained by the Army Criminal Investigation Division as part of its ongoing efforts to identify and mitigate the use of illegal narcotics, CID officials said.

Senior Fort Bragg leaders have said there is a zero drug use policy on post and that leaders meet weekly to discuss the issue.

More:Fort Bragg leads Department of Defense in drug-related deaths

Fort Bragg renaming

Fort Bragg will be known as Fort Liberty later this year.

The 2021 National Defense Authorization Act mandated the Naming Commission to identify military assets that commemorate the Confederacy.

Fort Bragg is currently named after Gen. Braxton Bragg, a Confederate general known for being a slave owner and losing battles during the Civil War.

During a local radio interview last month, garrison commander Col. John Wilcox said he expects the change to happen by June.

More:Liberty bibberty: What social media is saying about Fort Braggs pending new name

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Housing

Following a 2019 Reuters investigation and congressional testimony about mold, lead paint and bug infestations in military housing across the nation, military leaders and housing providers vowed to address the issue.

Several Fort Bragg families entered into a class-action lawsuit in 2020 against Fort Braggs housing provider Corvias, which is pending.

In a news release Tuesday, Corvias announced that it received a national award for military housing property management and received resident satisfaction scores above 85% at its Fort Bragg housing communities.

Barracks housing for soldiers has also been a concern.

Senior leaders relocated 1,189 soldiers in August after determining that Smoke Bomb Hill barracks had issues with heating and ventilation systems.

Smoke Bomb Hill barracks deemed substandard will be demolished, while 12 barracks are undergoing renovations.

Childcare

During an April community information exchange meeting, former garrison commander Col. Scott Pence said more than 600 families were on a waitlist for Child and Youth Services.

More:There's a shortage of childcare on Fort Bragg. What is the Army doing about it?

Officials acknowledged parent concerns during an October meeting and attributed some of the problems to staffing shortages.

In a meeting this month, Wilcox said several vacancies have been filled.

The recently passed National Defense Authorization Act also allocates $3.6 million for a child development center at Fort Bragg.

Staff writer Rachael Riley can be reached at rriley@fayobserver.com or 910-486-3528.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Five things to know about Fort Bragg right now
President Joe Biden likes to sum up his approach to China with a snappy mantra: Competition, not conflict. He used that construction at the G-20 summit last fall in Bali, Indonesia, after meeting with Xi Jinping to revive their strained relationship. Biden deployed it again in his State of the Union address this month, days after sending warplanes to destroy a Chinese spy balloon off the Atlantic coast.

When I asked Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, the top Democrat on the new select committee on U.S.-China relations, whether he thought that formula captured the state of affairs, he paused.

I hope it does, Krishnamoorthi said, taking time to choose his words.

Vigorous competition would be a healthy version of a U.S.-China relationship, he said. But he did not sound convinced that Bidens catch phrase fully addressed the status quo, since a competitor like the Peoples Republic of China can become an adversary if they break the rules to win.

We have to protect our interests and we have to protect our values, Krishnamoorthi said, even as our businesses and our supply chain are interdependent with the business and technological ecosystem within the PRC.

Krishnamoorthi and a small group of Democrats will bring that layered worldview to the select committee when it holds its debut hearing on Tuesday. Conceived by the new Republican House majority and approved by a bipartisan vote as a wide-ranging investigative body, the committee is also a crucial opportunity for Democrats to explain their perspective on China for the American people.

Up to this point, they have ceded too much of the political discourse on China to the right.

If both parties agree that China poses a uniquely complex threat, only one has made it a daily obsession. Across the GOPs warring factions, the Chinese Communist Party is a menace that nearly all can agree to despise; lawmakers voice that sentiment in sober floor speeches and frothing rants on Newsmax. The challenge for levelheaded Republicans on the select committee, led by Rep. Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, will be keeping the paranoid right from overwhelming their work.

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An important job for Democrats will be clarifying their own policies with a message that makes sense to regular people.

Krishnamoorthi, a 49-year-old lawyer who is also a senior member of the intelligence committee, is sensitive to the task. He said he consulted veterans of the Jan. 6 committee about their methods of commanding public attention, with an eye toward using witness testimony and multimedia to engage a mass audience. In his Chicago-area district, Krishnamoorthi said he encounters many constituents alarmed by Chinas human rights abuses, underhanded economic tactics and militancy toward Taiwan. But few voters can shape that swirling fog of concern into a coherent picture.

That fog emanates, in part, from the White House.

To people following his policies closely, Bidens China strategy is clear enough. He has imposed painful restrictions on Chinas tech sector and pressured European allies to do the same. He has deepened military alliances with Chinas neighbors and promised to supply Australia with nuclear submarines to strengthen its defenses. His administration is weighing new limits on American investment in the Chinese economy. It is an approach aimed at forcefully undermining Chinese power while leaving some room for dialogue on matters of shared concern, like climate change and the war in Ukraine.



But Biden has neglected the job of articulating all that to voters in plain English. He has explained one policy at a time, but he has not defined a bigger picture that is clearer than competition, not conflict.

Sometimes that verbiage is risibly inadequate, like when Kamala Harris told my colleague Eugene Daniels, after the Air Force downed the spy balloon and the secretary of state canceled a trip to Beijing, that nothing needed to change in U.S.-China relations.

We seek competition, but not conflict or confrontation, Harris insisted. Those tumultuous events, she said, were very consistent with our stated approach.

On some subjects, that stated approach has been cryptic. Over and over, Biden has pledged to defend Taiwan from a Chinese attack. He did so at a news conference in Japan, in an interview with 60 Minutes and in a town hall on CNN. But every time, Bidens advisers have walked back his comments under cover of anonymity. Strategic ambiguity is fine as policy-planning jargon, but Americans deserve to know whether there is a good chance of open war with a nuclear power inside this decade. They might reasonably expect to have some say in the matter.

Then there was Bidens Fawlty Towers moment in the State of the Union speech: the outburst that reminded me of nothing more than John Cleeses sitcom hotelier losing it before a group of German guests he was determined not to offend. Biden followed his script for a while, enunciating tight phrases about resolute competition with China (dont mention the new Cold War!) until the polite facade collapsed. Like Basil Fawlty breaking into a flamboyant goose-step, Biden erupted in a shouted taunt: Name me a world leader who would change places with Xi Jinping! Name me one!

What were Americans meant to draw from that?



There are occasional moments of piercing clarity when people close to Biden shed the opaque language of diplomacy. An example came last week when on a conference call with several columnists the secretary of commerce, Gina Raimondo, described the strategic imperative to make the United States a tech-manufacturing superpower.

On the call, Raimondo urged a national mobilization to build Americas semiconductor industry into a global force. After she invoked Americas World War II-era drive for nuclear technology and the Space Race of the 1960s, I pointed out that those happened in the context of America facing off against evil empires. Should Americans understand the semiconductor campaign in similar terms?

That is the point, Raimondo answered. We want the American people to make that link, because thats the reality.

She predicted: Theres going to be two separate tech ecosystems: one led by America with our allies, consistent with our values of openness, transparency, respect for human rights  and another.

I guess the lesson is: If you want a picture of the future, ask a member of the cabinet.

Bidens China strategy would probably make for good politics if Americans understood it. Yet it has mostly existed in a space outside politics  in a world of policy memoranda and formal strategy documents and distant events like the Munich Security Conference. As it is, a sizable majority of the country disapproves of how he is handling relations with China: 58 percent in a new AP-NORC poll.

It does not take a world-class diplomatic mind to understand why Biden would avoid giving a forthright account of his tough-on-China policies in a speech to Congress. There is a limit to the rhetorical provocations China will tolerate while maintaining even a tenuous working relationship.

But it also does not take a world-class political mind to see the perils in Bidens coded approach.

One lesson of the Trump era was that danger lies in the gap between studied elite consensus and visceral public opinion. A policy that is smart and careful and invisible to the untrained eye cannot easily survive a brute attack from a motivated adversary. Good ideas need to be explained and defended if they are to win out over crude and offensive ones.

And when it comes to China, crude and offensive ideas abound. Look no further than the proposal in Texas to ban Chinese nationals from buying property. That is but one manifestation of an ugly, reactionary mood that continues to intensify.

That phenomenon weighs on Krishnamoorthi. The committee, he said, must shun rhetoric that could end up being discriminatory toward Chinese-origin people or Asian-origin people.

That can really infect the conversation and endanger people, he told me. Thats what we saw, unfortunately, with President [Donald] Trump.



There is another risk, too, in Biden leaving the full extent of his China strategy unexplained: that unwanted events could take the country by surprise. If Biden and his party aim to counter Chinas power without prompting an open clash, there is always the risk that they will misjudge how far they can go. Or that China could initiate a conflict for its own reasons, regardless of their precautions.

In our conversation, Krishnamoorthi sounded most worried about a collision over Taiwan. He told me he is confident the United States would come to Taiwans defense and the result would be nightmarish for Chinas military, the Peoples Liberation Army.

Suffice it to say, there are various scenarios that dont end well for, in my opinion, the PLA and the CCP, Krishnamoorthi said. But it would be a horrible situation for the world.

These are risks that Americans ought to understand. If Biden wont explain them, it is incumbent on other Democrats  like Krishnamoorthi and Raimondo  to take up the challenge.

It is a job too important to be left up to the president.
In Sarah Polley's film "Women Talking," the women in a cloistered religious community have been sexually abused. They decide to vote on whether to leave. "What these women are talking about is literally breaking down one world and building a next," Polley said.

The Oscar-nominated screenplay, adapted from a book by Miriam Toews, was written by Polley, who's also the film's director. She told Mason she was initially reluctant to direct herself: "I have three little kids."

Polley told Frances McDormand, who co-stars in the film and co-produced it, that she couldn't handle the long, grueling days away from her children. "There was this little pause, and then Frances McDormand just kind of went, 'Well, men have written the rules of this industry, and this movie's called "Women Talking," so we're gonna change the rules. Amen, sister. We're just going to do it!'"

To watch a trailer for "Women Talking" click on the video player below:

"Sunday Morning" met Polley in her hometown, Toronto, where she gave us a tour of a local skating rink. "In this country, we have hockey," she said. "You're welcome!"

But she didn't grow up on the ice. She grew up on film sets, acting from the age of four. When asked if she liked being a child actor, she replied, "By and large, it was a terrible experience."

She was traumatized running through explosions in "The Adventures of Baron Munchausen." At age 10 she told the CBC, "A lot of times when the explosions and things were going off, it was really scary."

Polley was called "Canada's sweetheart" when she starred in the 1990s series "Road to Avonlea," adapted from books by "Anne of Green Gables" author Lucy Maud Montgomery. But she didn't like the attention that came with her fame. "Being recognized was really scary for me," Polley said. "And uncomfortable."

At 11, Polley lost her mother to cancer. A few months later, she was diagnosed with scoliosis. "My spine growing completely out of control into this curve, which I knew I needed surgery for. I think all of those things just kind of came to a head. And so, that was a really big moment of breakage, in terms of just everything kind of crumbling."

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At 17, she was cast in Atom Egoyan's film, "The Sweet Hereafter," playing a girl paralyzed in a school bus accident.

Mason said, "You do so much with facial expressions in that movie."

"I'd been going through so much since I was so little, and there was no place to put it," Polley said. "And suddenly, I was able to put everything that had ever happened to me that I hadn't said into these silent moments."

Sarah Polley and Ian Holm in

Polley won glowing reviews. In 1999, she made the cover of Vanity Fair's Hollywood issue, and reached a turning point in 2000, when she was cast as rock groupie Penny Lane in Cameron Crowe's film, "Almost Famous."

She walked away from it, explaining, "It became really clear to me really fast, whoever played that part was going to become a huge star. I knew definitively I didn't want that from my early experiences of fame, which were so negative. So, I thought, why am I getting on this train?"

"Were there a lot of people who said, 'What are you doing?'" asked Mason.

"Oh yeah! If people weren't coming by the house in Toronto, they were flying in to knock on my door and go, 'So you're not going to be Penny Lane in the new Cameron Crowe movie? That's a fascinating choice!'"

Filmmaker Sarah Polley, an Oscar-nominee for

In the end, the part of Penny Lane was played by Kate Hudson. Polley said she does not regret it: "Never. Because I never would have made my own films. It came directly from that moment." [Her previous films as director include "Away From Her," starring Julie Christie; "Take This Waltz," with Michelle Williams; and a documentary about her family, "Stories We Tell."]

Polley recounts some of her traumas in her recent memoir, "Run Towards the Danger," writing: "The past and the present ... are in constant dialogue."

In the book, she alleges she was sexually assaulted when she was 16.

/ Credit: Orion/United Artists

Mason asked, "I'm wondering the degree to which that was in conversation with you when you were making this film?"

"I think a lot of experiences I had as a young woman, I think they made their way into the process of thinking about this film, absolutely," she replied.

"Do you feel you look at yourself any differently after re-examining a lot of this?"

"After I told these stories, I did feel lighter," Polley said. "I just have a buoyancy now that I don't think I had before."

"Has that buoyancy in any way changed the way you approach filmmaking?"

"Yeah, I think I approach filmmaking with a lot of gratitude now," Polley said. "I didn't have a second that went by that I wasn't so grateful to be there every day."



For more info:

"Women Talking," now playing in theaters"Run Towards the Danger: Confrontations with a Body of Memory" by Sarah Polley (Penguin), in Hardcover, Trade Paperback, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Indiebound



Follow Sarah Polley on Instagram



Story produced by Mary Lou Teel. Editor: Steven Tyler.



See also:

Claire Foy says therapist was on set of "Women Talking": "The material is very triggering" ("CBS Mornings")

Ukraine marks one year since Russian invasion with no sign of peace in sight

Reps. Gallagher and Krishnamoorthi say a new House select committee will "have a conversation" with companies that do business with China

Condoleezza Rice says "we have to do everything we can to convince" Putin that he is wrong on Ukraine
Crime and Courts Reporter

Donald W. Meyers is a multimedia journalist at the Yakima Herald-Republic covering crime and courts. He is also the writer behind It Happened Here, a weekly history column. Before coming to Yakima, Meyers covered a wide variety of beats at The Salt Lake Tribune, Daily Herald, and daily and weekly newspapers across New Jersey. He is also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, serving as a regional officer in the organization as well as on the national Freedom of Information Committee.
RFA/Latino Community and Lower Valley Reporter

Heyo, Im Jasper. Nice to meet you. I cover a wide variety of news, but I try to focus on the Latino community and the Lower Yakima Valley. I want to sharestories and perspectives from the Yakima Valley. Im interested in economics, labor, geography and the environment, but the most important issues will always be the ones the community cares about. If you have something worth saying, Ill listen and try to write it down. Im a gosei from Northeast Los Angeles and I got my start as a student journalist and editor covering sports in the Bay Area. Im a massive soccer fan and I still love to play. I also love water in all its forms, the word copacetic and trying new things. I want to read more, and I like to cook, but Im not great at either. Have fun out there!
Egyptian House of Representatives' Budget Committee approved on Tuesday a two-month extension to Law 161/2022 allowing Egyptian expats to import tax-free cars after paying their price in foreign currency.

The amendment to Article 9 of the law, drafted by MP Hisham Hilal and 60 MPs, aims to extend the law by two months -- or for the next four to six months.

Hilal said the law, which was passed by the House of Representatives and ratified by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi last October, stipulated a very short period of time  four months  for Egyptian expatriates to take advantage of the tax-free import initiative. "This short period of time made it difficult for many Egyptian expatriates, particularly those working in Arab Gulf countries, to take advantage of the tax and custom exemptions offered by the law. Most of those expats have long-term business contracts. Hence, it is better to extend the grace period for two more months to allow a larger number of Egyptian expats import tax-free cars," said Hilal.

"The four-month exemption period stated in the law is due to expire in the last week of February, so the amendment was drafted to extend it by an additional two months."

Hilal's proposed legislative amendment was approved by Minister of Emigration Soha Guindi and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Alaaeddin Fouad. Fouad said "the amendment will help more foreign exchange receipts to flow into the country's banking system."

Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt (CIB) Sherif Farouk said "the CIB has no objection to any amendments that may increase the country's foreign exchange. The amendments should strike a balance between the interests of the Egyptian people and the need for doubling the country's foreign revenues."

The law was drafted in October as part of a government initiative to attract much needed foreign currency to the country and solve part of Egypt's foreign exchange gap crisis.

Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait told the House of Representatives at that time that the government had hopes the law would attract $2.5 billion into Egypt.

Under the law, Egyptian expats who have valid residence permits abroad and bank accounts will be allowed to import one private passenger vehicle for personal use provided it was manufactured no longer than three years before import date.

The law stipulates that expats have to use foreign currency to purchase a five-year certificate of deposit (CD), equal to the amount of taxes and customs due on the vehicle, with the finance ministry but at no interest.

In December, Maait said the government would introduce changes to the law's executive bylaws to make it easier for a larger number of Egyptians to take advantage of the facilities provided.

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Officials paid their respects on the memorial day for the victims of communism on Saturday. In a speech in the capital, Speaker of Parliament Laszlo Kover said the memorial day provides an occasion not only to pay respects to those who suffered, but to declare that we will not allow our children and grandchildren to become victims of new poisoned ideas and new dictators.

He noted that Hungarys periods under communism  for 133 days in 1919 and for over 40 years starting in 1947  were both funded with foreign money and featured networks of agents serving foreign interests.



Speaking at the House of Terror in Budapest, Gergely Gulyas, the head of the Prime Ministers Office, stressed the importance of passing on personal stories to inform younger generations of what its like for humanity to suffer inhumanity, while learning to appreciate the value of freedom.



At a commemoration in Pocspetri, in the northeast of the country, state secretary Miklos Soltesz paid tribute to the victims of communism for paving the way for a period marked by peace, human dignity and freedom of conscience, for individuals and communities alike.



At a memorial for forced labourers in the capital, state secretary Bence Retvari said the communist ideal was an ideal of murder, as wherever communists came to power in the world, mass murders followed.



MTI Photo: Tamas Kovacs
Demonstrators showed their support for Ukraine, remembered the victims of the war and protested the Hungarian governments policies at an event organised by the We Belong to Europe Association and opposition party Momentum in the capital.

On the first anniversary of the start of the war, Jaroslava Hartyanyi, the president of Budapests Ukrainian self-government and the Ukrainian Cultural Association in Hungary, told the demonstrators there would be peace only if the Russians pull out.



Mayor Gergely Karacsony called Budapest a city of solidarity, as the capital has welcomed refugees and stood on the right side of history.



Momentum MEP Katalin Cseh pointed to the importance of showing there is another Hungary, too. Momentum chairman Ferenc Gelencser said Hungary may not be allowed to serve the interests of the aggressor, Russia.



MTI Photo
Finance Minister Mihaly Varga spoke about economic policy goals in the latest instalment of The Bold Truth About Hungary, the podcast of the governments international spokesman, Zoltan Kovacs.

Addressing tax policy, Varga said the governments approach is not to roll out new taxes, but to broaden the tax base by reducing tax avoidance. If there are more taxpayers, they have to pay less, he added.



Paradoxically, we have been able to prove that a lower tax rate contributes to higher state revenue, while the economy has become more competitive as we could expand the system for state support and assistance, he said.



Varga acknowledged that 2023 will be the most dangerous year for Hungary since the change of system, which will require a reduction of risks and a buildup of reserves.



The government aims to create a secure environment, in terms of finance, too, by protecting jobs, preserving the real value of pensions and maintaining the regulated price system for household utilities, he said.



He noted that foreign direct investment has reached record levels in recent years, even as taxation relative to GDP has been reduced on an unprecedented scale.



A look back at the past 13 years shows Hungarys economic model has yielded success, he said. While the country was on the edge of default in 2010, the economy grew at the fastest pace in the European Union in 2019, he added.



Varga said Hungarys government is proactive and doesnt just walk up and down the pitch like a referee but shapes the match as one of the players.



He said the matter of demographics is the most important issue for Hungary, adding that if depopulation continues for 10-20 years, the economy will face serious damage, difficult to repair.



Varga called out decision-makers in Brussels for holding back the countrys EU funding and putting Hungary at a competitive disadvantage.



MTI Photo: Szilard Koszticsak
YORK  York County has agreed to be the applicant for a $355,000 grant which, if awarded, would be used to upgrade the building housing the Four Corners Health Department in York.

This past week, the county commissioners met with Laura McDougall, director of the Four Corners Health Department, and Tom Bliss, director of the Southeast Nebraska Development District (SENDD).

Bliss explained to the commissioners, Four Corners have been given a very unique opportunity to apply for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). The State of Nebraska Economic Development reached out to offer some funding  COVID funds  which only a handful of entities were eligible to apply for and Four Corners is one. The grant, if awarded, would be for $355,000 to make improvements to their facility. Coming to you for this public hearing is part of the process. $10,000 would be for grant administration and $5,000 would be for construction management, as required due to this being federal money.

McDougall said, Four Corners is hoping to make the offices more accessible and conform to the disability act. Our ramp in front is in bad shape and doesnt conform to the requirements. It needs to be replaced. We also need to do work on the front doors and the lobby, as well as put in four larger, accessible bathrooms. We also have 11 furnaces in that building and we need to replace nine which do not work.

Bliss said the front doors would then have press-auto openers, which are needed to make them handicap accessible.

Ive been in that building on a cold day and I can tell you that you do not want to take off your coat, Bliss added. They do a great job and did a great job during the pandemic. Four Corners is not eligible to directly apply themselves but the county could apply and be a pass-through for the funds. Your activities would be improving payments. Its a convoluted process, but thats how it works.

No one from the public spoke for or against the grant application.

I strongly urge you to support this, Bliss said to the county board members.

The board was asked to consider a memo of understanding in the matter.

York County Commissioner Chairman Randy Obermier explained how McDougall had already been to the board about this last May, and the county board was in favor, but the state dropped the ball and a grant award for this was not included in our current budget. However, our auditor has said we can run it through our inheritance fund, so we could do this. Regarding the Four Corners office, we really want this to stay in York. Federal dollars will require our oversight, but I think its worth the work to keep that office here and fix that office up.

McDougall said asbestos removal has already taken place inside the facility.

We will assist with this process as much as we possibly can, she added.

York County Clerk Kelly Turner said the county attorneys office already reviewed the memo of understanding and said all was in order.

Bliss also stressed this is a unique situation in that it requires no local match.

There may be hoops to jump through as with all grants of this nature, but at the same time, it is grant money and this is an organization we want to keep here, said Commissioner Daniel Grotz. If we can improve that building with whats offered, I think its a good thing.

Everyone agreed to have Chairman Obermier sign the memo of understanding and move forward with the grant application process.
AURORA  The Hamilton County Attorneys office, the Hamilton County Sheriffs Department and the Nebraska State Patrol are currently investigating a suspected homicide in Marquette.

According to the Hamilton County Sheriffs Department, the victim was found on Sunday, Feb. 26.

The Nebraska State Patrol, which is assisting the sheriffs department, has taken a suspect into custody.

Cody Thomas, public relations director for the state patrol, said the names of all involved are being withheld at this time, pending notification of the victims family.

More information will be made public at a later time.
Education gets more digital in China

14:16, February 27, 2023 By Wu Dan, Ding Yasong ( People's Daily

Multimedia teaching facilities are employed on a class in an elementary school in Hujia village, Xintian county, Yongzhou, central China's Hunan province. (People's Daily Online/Liu Guixiong)

The World Digital Education Conference was held in Beijing recently, where a series of digital education equipment made a buzz.

For example, wearing a mixed reality headset, people could see a life-size aircraft engine in the virtual world, and even dismantle and assemble it with gaming controllers in their hands.

A 5G-enabled video camera could capture students' motions in real time when they make a standing long jump and then provide targeted guidance.

These devices are a miniature of the digitalization of China's education. Today, schools at all levels and of all types in the country are strengthening the application of digital technologies in educational activities. Digital Technology has changed the education scenario in the educational institutions by enhancing teaching and learning, research and governance.

The constant improvement of digital education facilities has laid an important foundation for the balanced improvement of education.

Today, all elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools across China have been connected to the internet, and 99.9 percent of them have 100 Mbps of bandwidth. Moreover, more than three quarters of Chinese schools have wireless networks, and about 99.5 percent of schools have multimedia classrooms.

The opening and sharing of digital education resources is key to narrowing digital and educational gaps.

Students have a science class wearing virtual reality headsets in a primary school in Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei province. (People's Daily Online/Cao Jianxiong)

In March 2022, a public online service platform called Smart Education of China was launched, focusing on such areas as learning, teaching, school governance and educational innovation. So far, the platform has received more than 6.7 billion page views and more than 1 billion visitors from more than 200 countries and regions.

The platform provides access to quality education resources for rural primary and secondary schools in the underdeveloped central and western parts of the country. It also allows universities in the west of China to share quality resources provided by universities in the east.

A school in Nanchang, east China's Jiangxi province, has employed an online platform that checks students' homework and then generates an individualized mistake notebook for every one of them based on their performance. The mistake notebook includes the mistakes they have made previously, as well as other relevant exercises that help them better comprehend what they have learned.

Besides, teachers of the school can also check students' homework performance and their academic development on the platform.

"Based on the statistics, we can make targeted teaching plans at a faster speed, which significantly improves teaching efficiency," said a teacher named Liao Haiyan of the school.

Guo Jiezhong, head of Jiangxi province's educational department, told People's Daily that it is difficult to help every student improve academic performance under traditional models of doing homework, as students' performance varies and even students at similar levels could have different grasps of what they have learned.

"That's why we introduced the online platform," Guo added.

Students learn programming and assemble robots in a primary school in Jinxi county, Fuzhou, east China's Jiangxi province. (People's Daily Online/Deng Xingdong)

With digitalization, the education sector has evolved to provide flexible and deeper learning experiences to the students.

In a virtual simulation base for vocational education at Jiangxi Tourism and Commerce Vocational College, which is the first of its type in China, virtual reality (VR) equipment and controlling pads are used to help students learn the techniques.

"We used to show these techniques to students with pictures and videos. Now with VR devices, it makes the scenarios more real and better attracts students," said Duan Xinxin, a teacher of the college.

It is learned that the base has virtual simulation training centers for 28 majors, as well as classrooms equipped with collaborative VR headsets. Every classroom in the base comes with a VR machine, VR goggles, and multimedia teaching facilities. The base is able to accommodate 10,000 students.

"Learning will be a voluntary, immersive, and individualized matter in the future," said professor Song Tian with the School of Cyberspace Science and Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology.

By getting into different learning scenarios with the assistance of technological innovation, students will find learning more interesting and efficient, the professor added.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry will head on Monday morning to both Syria and Turkey to extend a message of solidarity from Egypt to the Syrian and Turkish people after the devastating earthquake that hit the two states early in February.

Shoukry is set to stress that Egypt is always ready to aid those affected by the quake in both countries and that Egypt at both the official and grass-roots level cannot fail to stand by its brothers, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement today.

Shoukrys trip is simultaneous with Speaker of Egypt's House of Representatives Hanafy El-Gebalys visit to Damascus upon the resolution of the 34th conference of the Arab Parliamentary Union (APU) which was held in Baghdad, Iraq, on Saturday.

El-Gebaly is the first Egyptian high-level official to visit Syria since the turbulent events in 2011.

The Egyptian speaker and other Arab speakers also met with Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad.

"The visit comes to show solidarity with the Syrian people and express support after the disastrous earthquake which hit the country on 6 February," El-Gebaly said during the visit.

"Egypt in particular has historic relations with Syria, and I am here in Damascus to convey a message that we all support the great and steadfast Syrian people and wish them all prosperity and welfare," said El-Gebaly.

Since the quake took place, Egypt has sent many supply planes and ships carrying hundreds of tons of humanitarian aid to Turkey and Syria in a message of support to both countries.

Shortly after the quake, Egypt sent to Syria a rescue team of medical specialists and rescue technicians alongside the medical aid.

The Egyptian Red Crescent also launched a donation campaign for Syrias earthquake victims.

Additionally, Egypts Tahya Masr designated a bank account at all state-owned banks to receive donations from inside and outside Egypt to send basic goods and pharmaceutical supplies to the victims.

A day after the disaster, Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi offered his condolences over the victims of the earthquake in phone calls to both Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

During the phone calls, El-Sisi stressed that Egypt is ready to send in humanitarian assistance and relief to help both the Syrian and Turkish people.

The devastating 7.8 magnitude quake, which rocked both Turkey and Syria, has left more than 50,000 dead and displaced millions of others in both countries.

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According to Cody Thomas, public relations director for the state patrol which is assisting, the investigation began at approximately 12:45 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 26, when the Hamilton County Sheriffs Department received a 911 call at a residence at 502 Carnahan Street in Marquette. Inside the home, deputies found a deceased woman, identified as Angela Adams, 49.

Investigators learned that Adams had been with her husband, Jeffrey Adams, Saturday evening, but he was not at the home when authorities arrived to investigate the incident, Thomas said. A short time later, Jeffrey Adams arrived at the Hamilton County Sheriffs Office to turn himself in. He was arrested by Nebraska State Patrol investigators. Investigators have determined that the incident began with an argument, during which Jeffrey Adams struck Angela Adams multiple times. Jeffrey Adams then left the home.
YORK  A trial has been set for late spring, in York County District Court, for Hunter Henry, 28, of Omaha, who was allegedly found in possession of cocaine during a traffic stop in York County.

Henry has pleaded not guilty to the charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of more than one pound of marijuana, both Class 4 felonies that carry a possible maximum sentence of two years in prison, upon conviction.

According to court documents, a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol was on regular duty when he saw a vehicle with a defective headlight on Interstate 80 near the Bradshaw exit. The vehicle, driven by Henry, was stopped. The trooper said in the affidavit filed with the court he could smell the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. After Henry told the trooper there was marijuana in the console, a probable cause search was conducted.

During the search, troopers allegedly found 133 grams of THC wax, 426 grams of THC gummies, 6.6 ounces of raw marijuana, 45 grams of psychedelic mushrooms, 1.4 grams of cocaine, three glass bongs, five glass pipes, two trays, one scooping stick, one grinder, one torch and two lights.

Court documents indicate Henry admitted that the white powdery substance in the center console was cocaine. It is also alleged he admitted that all the materials belonged to him.
Hyundai will soon launch the 2023 Verna in an attempt to snatch away the throne from the segment leader - Honda City, which itself is getting a mid-life update soon. The 2023 Hyundai Verna is confirmed to officially launch in India on March 23. The sedan is likely to make its global debut in India. However, it will replace the existing Verna globally, which is sold as Accent in select foreign markets including South Korea. Well, images of the 2023 Hyundai Verna err Hyundai Accent have surfaced from South Korea. These images show the upcoming new-gen iteration of the sedan in flesh, and we can affirm that it will attract polarising opinions, once it goes on sale in India.

As visible in images, the new-gen Verna gathers a lot of sharpness in its design. The nose features a large LED light bar, while there is a colossal-sized grille on the front, housing the headlamp assembly as well. The front bumper is now edgier than the outgoing model. Also, the hood is long, and the Hyundai logo now sits over it.

Around the sides, the 2023 Hyundai Verna will come with a new design for alloy wheels. In fact, the silhouette will be different from the model it replaces. The roofline now tapers down to the extreme end of the tailgate, therefore giving it a coupe-like roofline. The sides also feature a host of sharp creases and lines, accentuating the bold character of the 2023 Hyundai Verna. The rear fascia of the saloon gets connected tail lamps, and the edgy nature is also visible here.

Also read - Citroen E-C3 Electric Hatchback Launched In India At Rs 11.50 Lakh, Gets Range Of 320 Km

The powertrain options on the 2023 Hyundai Verna will be different from the outgoing model. It will come with two engine choices - 1.5L NA petrol and 1.5L turbo-petrol. The former will push out 115 PS against 144 Nm as its max output, whereas the turbocharged unit will belt out around 160 PS against 260 Nm of torque. Gearbox choices on the new-gen Verna will include a 6-speed MT, CVT, and a 7-speed DCT.
With supply chain disruptions being faced by one of the largest jet engine manufacturers - Pratt and Whitney (P&W), around 50 aircrafts of IndiGo and GoFirst are grounded and cannot fly. A spokesperson of the engine manufacturer revealed that the firm is facing supply chain issues to replace engines for Indian customers. While the supply chain constraints are keeping P&Ws big client at land, the manufacturer is trying to work in tandem with air carriers to neutralise this issue and minimise operational disruption. Furthermore, the company is facilitating possible hardware and software updates to increase engine time on the wing.

We expect supply chain pressures to ease later this year, which will support the output of both production and MRO engines," a P&W spokesperson said. It said that this had affected P&W`s supply chain globally without citing the ongoing Russia and Ukraine aggression but the company mentioned in its statement that they are under pressure. "The engines also have a dispatch reliability rate on par with mature engines like our V2500 for the A320ceo family.

Also read - Shivamogga Airport: All You Need To Know About New Aerodrome In Karnataka To Be Inaugurated By PM Modi

Engine availability is under pressure from a combination of engine time on the wing, particularly in certain harsh operating environments, and the availability of hardware to upgrade and overhaul engines. Like many in the industry," according to P&W statement.

India`s low-cost carrier Indigo currently has the maximum number of aircraft engines that are going to be replaced in the coming days with around 30 aircraft in their fleet standing and waiting for an engine replacement.

"Globally, the aviation industry continues to face significant supply chain disruptions. While it is our immediate priority to deploy adequate capacity to serve our customers, we are actively engaged with our OEM partners to work on mitigation measures that should ensure the continuity of our network and operations," IndiGo said.

"As we work on various cost-efficient countermeasures with our OEM partners, the endeavour is to minimize the economic impact of AOG, resulting from this global disruption," it added.

Also read - SpiceJet Begins Delhi-Shillong Direct Flight Service, To Operate Twice a Week

In a recent interview with ANI DGCA chief Arun Kumar said, "The most difficult task in my tenure was the incidents like a failure of jet engines in the air. In my early days in DGCA, it was very challenging for me as chief of aviation regulator to ask airlines to change the engines as soon as possible.

"Although the go-first airline company has not issued any statement on the grounding of some of its fleet due to engine replacement by P&W, the company responded in January this year that,"Pratt & Whitney is still dealing with its supply chain issues and though there is improvement the complete resolution may take time. Pratt & Whitney provided 17 serviceable engines in December and we were able to make 8 aircraft serviceable. Similarly, we are expecting 20 more serviceable engines to be received by February - March 2023," the Go First statement has issued on January 2023.

Go First is very hopeful that the rest of the engines will be replaced by March of this year as per their statement. ANI reported in 2019 when DGCA issued instructions to IndiGo and GoAir to ensure that it does not operate any Neo aircraft with two Pratt and Whitney 1100 series engines that have been used for more than 3,000 hours each. At that time GoAir had 13 such aircraft and Indigo had 16 such aircraft in 2019.
Exercise Cobra Warrior is a multinational air exercise, serviced at RAFs Waddington Air Force Base in the United Kingdom, from March 6 onwards. India is participating in this exercise, an official statement has confirmed, and the Indian Air Force will utilise this as an opportunity to learn practices of other forces about fighter aircraft management and deployment. The program is centred to help both pilot and other aviation specialists, and air forces from other countries will also join the Exercise Cobra Warrior 2022. Indian Air Force (IAF) will participate in multilateral air exercise `Exercise Cobra Warrior` at the RAF`s Waddington Air Force Base in the UK from March 6 to 24, an official statement said.

Report: An IAF contingent of 145 Air Warriors left Air Force Station Jamnagar today to participate in Exercise Cobra Warrior at the Royal Air Forces Waddington Air Force Base in the United Kingdom. The exercise will take place from March 6 to March 24.#CobraWarrior pic.twitter.com/4S8EpNUC9p  DefenceXP (@Defence_XP) February 26, 2023

This year, the IAF is participating in the exercise with five Mirage 2000 fighters, two C-17 Globemaster III and an IL-78 mid air refueller aircraft. The aim of the exercise is to participate in diverse fighter aircraft engagements and learn from the best practices of various Air Forces, the IAF said.

An Indian Air Force contingent comprising 145 Air Warriors departed from the Air Force Station in Jamnagar on Sunday for the UK to participate in the exercise, where the RAF and the IAF will be joined by contingents from Finland, Sweden, South Africa, the US, and Singapore.

Also read - Shivamogga Airport: All You Need To Know About New Aerodrome In Karnataka To Be Inaugurated By PM Modi

On February 21, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with his UK counterpart Ben Wallace, where he called on UK companies to become part of India`s growth story and participate in co-development and co-production in the country.

Both Ministers discussed a wide range of defence and security issues, including regional developments and the Indo-Pacific, as well as reviewing their ongoing defence cooperation and expressing satisfaction at their bilateral military-to-military engagements.
The Shivamogga Airport is ready to go operational anytime soon, as PM Modi is in Karnataka to do the honours. The airport is targeted to bring increased opportunities in the central Karnataka region in the form of increased tourism and development in the industry sector as well. "The airport in Shivamogga will boost commerce, connectivity and enhance tourism," wrote PM Modi on Twitter. Member of Parliament - B Y Raghvendra, said, The Passenger Terminal Building of the airport can handle 300 passengers per hour and will serve as a gateway of Malnad region. But here we tell you everything about this new airport.

The greenfield airports terminal building gets a Lotus-inspired shape, which certainly has invited some controversies. The airport is built with an aircraft apron, fire station building, taxiway, and an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower. The terminal building of the airport is highly modernised with new-age amenities. Designed by Kembhavi Architects, the airport is built under public-private partnership.

Shivamogga Airport: Cost

Built on over 600 acres of land, the airport is developed at a cost of Rs 450 crore. Work for the airport started back in 2020 when then Chief Minister of the state, B S Yediyurappa, laid the foundation stone. The 9th domestic airport of the state is developed under UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagarik) scheme.

The airport is intended to cater to roughly 300 passengers during its peak hours. With its runway length of 3.2 kilometres, second to that of the Kempegowda Airport in Bengaluru in Karnataka, it is reported to be capable of handling wide-body planes. However, as of now, it will only cater to turbo-props like ATR-72, and narrow-body jets like Boeing 737, Airbus A320 and more.

First flight lands at Shivamogga Airport



A Boeing airplane of Indian Air Force made a successful trial landing at the newly built airport today.



PM @narendramodi will inaugurate the airport on February 27. @XpressBengaluru @NewIndianXpress pic.twitter.com/kYAN68Gft5  Marx Tejaswi (@_marxtejaswi) February 21, 2023

Shivamogga Airport: Name

The aerodrome will be named after the famous poet Kuvempus name. The ruling BJP government suggested naming the airport after former CM of the state - BS Yediyurappa, but he denied the proposal. Also, it should be noted that the airport is being inaugurated on Yediyurappas 80th birthday.
Renowned celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor recently took to Twitter to hit out at Air India after he was served unsatisfactory meals on a flight from Nagpur to Mumbai. The Chef shared multiple photos of the food served on the flight and complained about the quality of the in-flight meal served on the Air India's domestic flight. The airline, although aiming for a major makeover under the new ownership of Tata Group, is still facing flak of customers on a daily basis. On the same day Kapoor tweeted about the food, an Indian diplomat complained about the poor facilities at Air India's business class lounge at the John F. Kennedy airport in New York.



Sharing photos of the meal on the flight, Sanjeev Kapoor wrote, "Wake Up @airindiain. Nagpur-Mumbai 0740 flight. Cold Chicken Tikka with watermelon, cucumber, tomato & sev Sandwich with minuscule filling of chopped cabbage with mayo Sugar syrup Sponge painted with sweetened cream & yellow glaze."

Wake Up @airindiain.



Nagpur-Mumbai 0740 flight.



Cold Chicken Tikka with watermelon, cucumber, tomato & sev



Sandwich with minuscule filling of chopped cabbage with mayo



Sugar syrup Sponge painted with sweetened cream & yellow glaze. pic.twitter.com/2RZIWY9lhO February 27, 2023

He describes his food as "cold" and termed the dessert as a "sugar syrup". Coming from a top chef known for his culinary skills, once can't ignore his observations. "Really! Is this what Indians should eat for breakfast?" he wrote in another tweet.



Recently, an Air India passenger, travelling in business class from Mumbai to Chennai, shared a video of an insect he found in his in-flight meal. The passenger was travelling on the flight AI671 from Mumbai to Chennai.

Recently, Air India announced a merger with Vistara, another full service carrier of the Tata Group, launched in JV with Singapore International Airlines. Vistara has carved a niche for itself in the aviation industry with its quality food. Aviation experts expect the new merger to work in favour of the Air India, in terms of improving in-flight food and services.
New Delhi: The power and reach of social media are well-known. An advocate in the national capital is using the immense reach and popularity of social media to educate the common masses about various laws and practical tips about what their legal rights are in case of any situation.

Advocate Ashish Dawar has earned the sobriquet of The Legal Baba after launching a YouTube channel with the same name (Ashish Dawar The Legal Baba). The channel provides in-depth and insightful content on law, besides geopolitics, general knowledge, and research. The channel has close to 8 lakh subscribers, and videos posted by advocate Ashish Dawar have received close to 19 crore views on the popular video-streaming platform.

Laws and legal provisions can be very intimidating for common persons. I launched the channel The Legal Baba on YouTube with the mission to educate and inform viewers about various laws with well-researched but simple-to-understand content. It is like practical training, where viewers can gain a better understanding of laws. I share practical tips about the laws and their legal rights in all kinds of situations, said advocate Dawar.

Advocate Dawar began his career with a law firm and was doing well, but he felt he could do much more by helping people in the real sense and not just when they were facing legal issues. After much thought and deliberation, the idea of The Legal Baba took shape, and he immediately resigned from the law firm.

People go to lawyers only when in legal trouble. The idea was to equip them with the right knowledge about their rights and help them avoid legal troubles in the first place in many cases if not all. I felt The Legal Baba was a great way to use the reach of YouTube and help lakhs of people. It was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. I am glad that I have been able to help many people. I am thankful to my subscribers for the response the channel has received and I am committed to coming up with content that has practical utility for viewers, said advocate Dawar.

He is now collaborating with Indian students studying in Canada to bring legal and social awareness among them and apprise them about their rights. He is working with Canadian institutes for the same. Advocate Dawar is also collaborating with various Canadian law enforcement agencies to assist people who escape to the country after committing marriage-related fraud in India.

The efforts I have made to bring awareness among people through The Legal Baba have helped me learn and grow as a legal professional. It has also resulted in me getting clients from across cities, but what I am proud of the most is the general awareness I have been able to bring, added advocate Dawar.
New Delhi: Rakul Preet Singh is one actress who enjoys a huge fan base all across the nation. Be it the Hindi film industry or the south the actress has always left everyone impressed with her distinct and pretty charm. The evidence of her huge fan following was recently witnessed when she went to a college in Chennai to attend an event as a guest of honour.

Taking to her social media, Rakul shared some glimpses of her visit to a college event in Chennai where she can be seen having a great time with the students at the event. From capturing selfies with the students to dancing with them on the stage, Rakul truly received immense love from the students. While expressing her delight, the actress wrote the caption Cant express my emotions in words .. sooo much love that all of you continue to give me .. chennai you were beyond awesome thankyou and super grateful.."

Rakul's recently released film Chhatriwali was the top trending film for a long time on the platforms. Rakul shouldered a strong subject very well all on her own as a small-town condom quality tester, Sanya, and collected a whole lot of love from critics and audiences alike for her strong performance.
New Delhi: Salman Khan, in his typical out-of-the-box style, took to social media and announced the release of the next song from his upcoming release, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. The megastar has however kept the fans on tenterhooks as only the audio of the song was released with some adorable cats featuring in the video instead of the song visuals, thus taking the anticipation to the next level.

The slated song is titled Billi Billi and the audio of the song has had an overwhelming reception as the makers have also released the audio across all streaming platforms. Post the audio release, the netizens expressed their eagerness for the songs video release.

Watch it here

Billi Billi is an energetic and high-spirited Punjabi dance number which marks the first time the megastar and the singer will be collaborating on a song. Sukhbir is well-known for chartbuster songs that are enjoyed at social gatherings and parties. A peppy dance number, Billi Billi is on its way to be a chartbuster as per the early trends.

The music for the song is composed by Sukhbir and has been written by Kumaar. A Salman Khan Films Production, produced by Salma Khan, Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan, is directed by Farhad Samji. The film stars Salman Khan, Venkatesh Daggubati, Pooja Hegde, Jagapathi Babu, Bhumika Chawla, Vijender Singh, Abhimanyu Singh, Raghav Juyal, Siddharth Nigam, Jassie Gill, Shehnaaz Gill, Palak Tiwari and Vinali Bhatnagar with all the elements of a Salman Khan film  action and romance. The film is slated to release on Eid 2023 and will be a Zee Studios worldwide release.
In the first visit by an Egyptian foreign minister since 2011, Sameh Shoukry arrived in Damascus on Monday morning to extend a message of solidarity to the Syrian people after the devastating earthquake earlier this month, Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry Ahmed Abu Zeid said.

Upon his arrival, the Egyptian foreign minister met with Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad, who thanked Egypt and its great people for hosting Syrian refugees and for treating them like brothers in Egypt.

Shoukry also met with his Syrian counterpart at the countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the spokesperson reported.

The Egyptian minister conveyed a message of solidarity and support from the government and people of Egypt with their brothers in Syria as a result of the devastating earthquake, Abu Zeid added.

               pic.twitter.com/EarYICcQdk  Egypt MFA Spokesperson (@MfaEgypt) February 27, 2023

The foreign minister is also set to visit Turkey as well to further offer his condolences and express solidarity with the similarly affected country.

During a press conference, Shoukry underlined Egypts support for the Syrian people, pointing to the 1,500 tons of aid has been sent since the disaster and offered assurances of his governments willingness to provide more as needed.

When asked about bilateral relations between Egypt and Syria, the foreign minister stressed that the Syrian people have a special place to Egyptian people and the purpose of this visit in the first place is humanitarian to deliver solidarity at the presidential, governmental and citizen level to the Syrian peoplein this tragedy.

We are acting on the basis of humanitarian ties, that is what we are focusing on in the current stage, he affirmed.

Shoukrys visit happens to coincide with Speaker of Egypt's House of Representatives Hanafy El-Gebalys visit to Damascus upon the resolution of the 34th conference of the Arab Parliamentary Union (APU) which was held in Baghdad, Iraq, on Saturday  marking the first visit of a high-level official to Syria since 2011.

"The visit comes to show solidarity with the Syrian people and express support after the disastrous earthquake which hit the country on 6 February," El-Gebaly said on Sunday.

Since the quake took place, Egypt has sent many supply planes and ships carrying hundreds of tons of humanitarian aid to Turkey and Syria in a message of support to both countries.

Shortly after the quake, Egypt sent to Syria a rescue team of medical specialists and rescue technicians alongside the medical aid.

The Egyptian Red Crescent also launched a donation campaign for Syrias earthquake victims.

Additionally, Egypts Tahya Masr designated a bank account at all state-owned banks to receive donations from inside and outside Egypt to send basic goods and pharmaceutical supplies to the victims.

A day after the disaster, Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi offered his condolences to the victims of the earthquake in phone calls to both Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The devastating 7.8 magnitude quake, which rocked both Turkey and Syria, has left more than 50,000 dead and displaced millions of others in both countries.

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Holi is one of the biggest Hindu festivals celebrated in India. It is the festival of colours that brings happiness and joy to the lives of people. Though it is widely celebrated in North India, there are some states which celebrate Holi with great pomp and show, and this makes it unique. Barsana in Mathura is famous for its Lathmar Holi celebration. Every year, thousands of devotees and tourists are attracted to the town here to witness Lathmar Holi', the festival that honors the couple, Radha and Krishna. This year the Barsana Holi would be on February 28, but what makes it stand out? Lets check it here.

Why Is Barsana Holi Famous?

Historical town Barsana -- the land of Radha Rani -- will witness a spectacle on February 28, when menfolk will drench womenfolk with colours and the women wielding batons playfully' hitting the men to drive them away.

Holi in Barsana virtually is a repeat of Holi representing the 'Dwaapar' age with menfolk trying to drench womenfolk with colours and women preventing them through baton attacks. The men protect themselves by carrying leather shields," Raas Bihari, a priest of Ladli temple in Barsana, said.

Also read: Holi 2023: Want A Eco-Friendly Celebration With Colours? Use Gulal Gota- Artisans Explain Its High Demand

Legend has it that when Krishna visited Barsana to spray colours on his beloved, Radha and her friends playfully hit him with sticks and drove him out of the town. Lathmar Holi seeks to recreate that.

How Is Mathura Holi Different From Other Cities?

Holi in Mathura is celebrated for around 25 days. It is celebrated at different locations in different ways. On Friday, we organised 'Phoolo kee Holi' (Holi of flowers) at Ramanreti in Gokul. On February 28, we are having 'Lathmar Holi' in Barsana, and the next day we have Lathmar Holi in Nandgaon. After that, we have Rangbharni in Vrindavan. So, there are different ways of celebrating Holi in different parts of the district. Together it is called Rangotsav," District Magistrate Pulkit Khare said.

Arrangements Made For Safe Holi Celebration

Officials said heavy security arrangements have been made for the festival in Barsana on Tuesday (February 28). Six additional SPs, 14 police circle officers, 60 inspectors/ SHOs, 300 sub-inspectors, 1,200 constables, 40 women sub-inspectors, 130 women constables, four traffic inspectors, 50 traffic sub-inspectors and five companies of the PAC would be deployed for Lathmar Holi, they said.

To prevent unlawful activities and misbehaviour with women, police in plain clothes will also be deployed at strategic points, they added. The entire festival area has been divided into six zones and 14 sectors with ADM level officers/additional SPs in-charge of each zone and deputy collector level officers as the in-charge of each sector, the officials said.

Around 40 parking points have been set up for parking vehicles, Senior Superintendent of Police Shailesh Kumar Pandey said. He said the entry of heavy vehicles to the town has been banned till Tuesday. According to officials, 300 sanitation workers will also be deployed to ensure cleanliness during the festival.
NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Monday said that Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodias arrest shows that the ruling BJP at the Centre is trying to silence the opposition leaders raising their voices against the Narendra Modi-led NDA government. Speaking to reporters, Raut said, Action against Sisodia shows Centre is trying to silence the Opposition. We'll stand with him. Be it Maharashtra, Jharkhand, or Delhi the Centre is misusing ED & CBI to send opposition leaders to jail or force them to surrender. Be it Sisodia, Nawab Malik, Anil Deshmukh and myself...Are there seers in BJP?

Action against Sisodia shows Centre trying to silence opposition;We'll stand with him. Be it Maha,J'khand,Delhi,Centre misusing ED&CBI to send opposition leaders to jail or forcing them to surrender. Be it Sisodia,Nawab Malik,Anil Deshmukh&myself...Are there seers in BJP?:S. Raut pic.twitter.com/RalFylBmLW  ANI (@ANI) February 27, 2023

Echoing a similar remark, TMC leader Derek O'Brien said targeting the Opposition Leaders is the Desperate Duo's favourite job. If Manish Sisodia had got himself a BJP brand of washing machine, he would have never been arrested. Bravo, Manish. Allies ShivSena, SADal, JD(U) TDP & others have all abandoned BJP. Only CBI, ED, IT remain true allies. Targeting Opposition leaders is the DESPERATE DUOS favourite job," Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien tweeted.

If @msisodia had got himself a #BJP brand of washing machine, he would never been arrested. Bravo, Manish



Allies ShivSena, SADal, JD(U) TDP & others have all abandoned BJP.

Only CBI, ED, IT remain true allies.



Targeting Opposition leaders is the DESPERATE DUOS favorite job  Derek O'Brien |  ' (@derekobrienmp) February 26, 2023

Mastermind Yet To be Arrested: BJP

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Manoj Tiwari has reacted to the Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia`s arrest in the liquor scam case and said that the "mastermind" behind the scam is yet to be arrested. While talking to ANI, Tiwari said, "Law is doing its work. After eight hours of questioning, Manish Sisodia who was accused in the liquor scam case has been arrested."

Sisodia has been arrested not only for being accused but also for destroying the evidence. This country`s agencies reach the accused persons sooner or later. Mastermind is yet to be arrested," he added. "A lot of people have been satisfied with his arrest but the arrest of the mastermind is yet to be made," he further added.

Shortly after Manish Sisodia`s arrest, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said honest and nationalist people are being arrested nationwide. Kejriwal and his wife also reached Deputy CM Manish Sisodia`s residence soon after Sisodia`s arrest. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also reached Sisodia`s residence and assured her of full support.

While talking to mediapersons, Kejriwal said, "Manish Sisodia is an honest man. He has been serving the country. He worked hard for underprivileged students and transformed government schools in Delhi. Today he has been arrested." "We are seeing how honest and nationalist people are getting arrested nationwide," he added.

On Sunday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case, after eight hours of questioning.

Not Afraid Of CBI, BJP: Sisodia

Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. "Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases are being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal`s rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP.

He said that the PM, who was not afraid of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, was scared of the AAP. "Everyone says that only AAP will rid the country of the BJP in the future. Modi-ji may not be scared of Rahul Gandhi but if there`s one party that he is scared of, it is the AAP. They will put me in jail, but we are not afraid. We will fight. Kejriwal is the only future leader of this country," Sisodia said, addressing supporters at Raj Ghat.

He further appealed to Arvind Kejriwal to "keep fighting" for the welfare of the people."I want to tell Kejriwal-ji, please continue with what are you doing. Keep fighting for the welfare of the people," Sisodia said.

AAP Workers Shout 'Modi Mar Gaya' Slogans

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers were heard chanting "Modi Mar Gaya" slogans outside Fatehpur Beri Police Station in support of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who appeared before the CBI for interrogation in connection with the alleged excise policy scam today.

The Delhi Police detained 50 workers and leaders of the AAP. Delhi police said the AAP workers and prominent leaders, including Sanjay Singh, were detained allegedly for violating Section 144 of the CrPC.

"A total of 50 persons, including 42 men and 8 women, were detained," Delhi Police said. The CBI had earlier asked Sisodia to appear for questioning on February 19. Last Sunday, Sisodia requested the central agency to defer questioning saying that he is "preparing the budget" at present and can only appear before it towards February-end.

Sisodia Not Named In CBI Chargesheet

Sisodia has not been named an accused in the chargesheet filed in the case. Arrested businessmen Vijay Nair and Abhishek are among the seven accused named in the chargesheet.

In August last year, the CBI searched Sisodia`s bank locker in connection with the case. The deputy CM claimed the sleuths did not find any incriminating material in his locker. Several raids were conducted at 21 places in Delhi and the National Capital Region, including Sisodia`s residence, and the premises of four public servants last year, according to a CBI officer, who further said that the raids were conducted across 7 states. The CBI launched a probe in the matter on the basis of a report forwarded by the Delhi chief secretary to L-G Saxena recommending a probe by the central agency.

Meanwhile, Security on Monday morning was beefed up at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg here as the Aam Aadmi Party has called for a protest against the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia by the CBI in the excise policy case. A senior police officer said heavy security arrangements have been made on the stretch -- DDU Marg -- in central Delhi where both the BJP and the AAP headquarters are located.
New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on Monday (February 27) issued a notice warning students against the false information of paper leaks on social media platforms. The CBSE issuing a public alert noted that fake and misleading information regarding the CBSE Board Exam 2023 paper leak is being separated on various social media like YouTube, Facebook Twitter etc.

"It has come to the notice of the Board that certain unscrupulous elements are regularly spreading rumors on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms about paper leak or claiming to have access to question papers of 2023 exams. These persons, groups and agencies intend to fleece the gullible students and parents as they demand money in return. Such irresponsible activities create confusion and panic among the students and public," CBSE said through a public alert.

The board further said that it is identifying and taking action against those spreading false information. "CBSE is regularly intimating Delhi Police Special Cell (MAC) to take stern action against persons involved in circulating fake news using social media platforms under various provisions of IPC and IT Act," it said.

Parents are also requested to guide their wards not to believe such rumours and not indulge in any such activity which hampers the smooth conduct of Board examinations, CBSE added.
New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party to hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case. AAP`s national General Secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday. Taking to Twitter, Pathak on Sunday said, "The great Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who has shaped the future of lakhs of children of the country, has been arrested in a fake case.

Against this, the Aam Aadmi Party will protest across the country tomorrow." The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party`s Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm on Monday. It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat`s Gandhinagar, Haryana`s Rohtak, Noida, etc. Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation after eight hours of questioning in the now-scrapped excise policy case.

Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal."Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases are being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal`s rising popularity.

As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED, and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP. Sisodia also visited Mahatma Gandhi`s memorial Rajghat before his arrest. Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Manish is innocent.

His arrest is dirty politics. There is a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Manish." Everyone is watching. People are understanding everything. People will respond to this. This will boost our spirits further. Our struggle will get stronger," he added tweet (roughly translated from Hindi).
New Delhi: A day after Manish Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation in the excise policy case, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday (February 27, 2023) claimed that most CBI officers were "against" his deputy's arrest. Taking to his official Twitter account, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo said that all the CBI officers have "huge respect" for Sisodia and reiterated that there is no evidence against him. He also linked Sisodia's arrest to the "high political pressure".

"I am told that most CBI officers were against Manishs arrest. All of them have huge respect for him and there is no evidence against him. But the political pressure to arrest him was so high that they had to obey their political masters," he said in a tweet.

I am told that most CBI officers were against Manishs arrest. All of them have huge respect for him and there is no evidence against him. But the political pressure to arrest him was so high that they had to obey their political masters  Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 27, 2023

The central probe agency on Sunday arrested Sisodia in connection with alleged corruption in the now-scrapped excise policy relating to the sale of alcohol.

Sisodia was arrested after nearly eight hours of questioning on various aspects of the excise policy for 2021-22, which the probe agency says suffered from irregularities both in its formulation and implementation, allegedly intended to benefit people with links to the AAP.

BJP's Manoj Tiwari hits back at Arvind Kejriwal

Hitting back at Arvind Kejriwal, Bharatiya Janata Party (MP) Manoj Tiwari said that the Delhi CM had "spread such fake news" about Intelligence Bureau (IB) during the 2022 Gujarat Assembly elections as well.

"Now everyone knows that whatever you write and say is fabricated," he said in a tweet in Hindi.

"Let the law work," he added.

            ..                 ..     ,             ,        https://t.co/5wfpU1nEu2 February 27, 2023

Manish Sisodia gave 'evasive replies', did not cooperate in investigation: CBI

A CBI official said that they were not satisfied with Manish Sisodia's answers and that he was not cooperating in the investigation and avoided clarifications sought on crucial points.

"He gave evasive replies and did not cooperate in the investigation despite being confronted with evidence to the contrary. Therefore, he has been arrested," the CBI said in a statement.

The CBI said the Delhi Deputy CM was issued a notice under CrPC section 41A to attend the investigation on February 19.

"However, he sought time of one week citing his preoccupation. Accepting his request, he was issued a notice for attending the investigation on February 26 for answering various questions evaded by him during his examination on October 17, 2022, and further questions relating to his incriminating role based on evidence collected during the investigation of the case," the agency added.

Sisodia's arrest, one of the highest-profile actions against an opposition leader, comes after that of Satyendar Jain, Delhi's then health minister, in June last year.

Both ministers have led what the AAP describes as the successful transformation of Delhi's education and health services, contributing to the party's popularity and continued electoral success.
New Delhi: The northeastern states of Meghalaya and Nagaland are voting in the assembly elections on Monday (February 27, 2023), where around 552 candidates are in the fray. Polling in both states began at 7 am and will continue till 4 pm, while the counting of votes will take place on March 2.

In Meghalaya, there are 60 assembly seats, but polling for the Sohiong constituency in East Khasi Hills district was adjourned due to the death of UDP candidate HDR Lyngdoh, while in Nagaland, over 13 lakh voters will decide the electoral fate of 183 candidates contesting in 59 out of a total of 60 seats as the Akuluto seat in Zunheboto district was won uncontested by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominee and sitting MLA Kazheto Kinimi.

Glimpses of voters at a polling station in Meghalaya.



Voting has started across all polling stations in #Meghalaya



Voting is your Right & your Duty. Dont forget to cast your valuable vote. #GoVote #AssemblyElections2023#ECI #MeghalayaElections2023 pic.twitter.com/2r2ZiFI6xg  Election Commission of India #SVEEP (@ECISVEEP) February 27, 2023

Over 19,000 polling officials have been deployed at 3,419 booths set up for the elections to the 59 assembly seats in Meghalaya, where a total of 369 candidates are contesting the polls.

Meghalaya Assembly Elections 2023

In Meghalaya, around 19,000 polling personnel and staff have been deployed for the election process. The Election Commission has also deployed 119 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in the state.

Out of the total of 3,419 polling stations, 640 have been identified as 'vulnerable', 323 are 'critical' and 84 are identified as both.

In the state, 21,75,236 electorates, including 10.99 lakh women and 10.68 lakh men, will decide the fate of 369 candidates.

As many as 369 candidates are in the fray, of which, 36 are women and 44 Independents.

#Meghalaya polling parties trekking difficult terrains , crossing rivers and traversing across the double decker living root bridge towards their polling station with the objective of leaving no voter to be left behind.#ECI #AssemblyElections2023 #MeghalayaElections2023 pic.twitter.com/mVNDcjkTWi  Election Commission of India #SVEEP (@ECISVEEP) February 26, 2023

The ruling National People's Party is aiming to retain power, while the BJP and Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress (TMC) are attempting to unseat the incumbent government.

The Congress and the BJP are contesting in 59 seats, while the NPP has put up nominees in 56 constituencies, the TMC in 57, and the United Democratic Party (UDP) in 46.

ALSO READ | Meghalaya Assembly Elections: From Illegal Coal Mining to Unemployment - Read Key Issues

The NPP, which has been leading the ruling alliance for the last five years, is fighting alone against former ally BJP, opposition TMC, and other regional parties such as the UDP and People's Democratic Front.

The Voice of the People's Party is contesting in 18 assembly constituencies in the Khasi Jaintia Hills region.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma is contesting from the South Tura constituency where he will lock horns with militant-turned-politician Bernard Marak, who was arrested last year and later released on bail on the charge of running a brothel in his farmhouse and being involved in human trafficking.

Nagaland Assembly Elections 2023

In Nagaland, the electors include 6,47,523 male and 6,49,876 female voters, who are eligible to exercise their franchise across 2,291 polling stations.

Women polling teams moving to their assigned polling stations after collecting the EVMs & polling material ahead of #NagalandElections2023 #ECI pic.twitter.com/xs53Bi9DO2  Election Commission of India #SVEEP (@ECISVEEP) February 26, 2023

The ruling Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) and the BJP are fighting the polls on a 40:20 seat-sharing basis.

The Congress, which ruled the state till 2003 and does not have any member in the current House, has fielded 23 candidates.

The Naga People's Front (NPF), which won 26 seats in the last assembly polls, has fielded candidates in 22 seats, but one of them withdrew, leaving 21 in the fray.

The National People's Party (NPP) and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) have fielded 12 candidates each.

Newbie in Nagaland politics -- Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) -- has put up as many as 16 candidates, while the Republican Party of India (Athawale) has fielded eight aspirants.

A total of 19 nominees will contest as Independents.

ALSO READ | Nagaland Assembly Elections: ENPO's Demand For Separate State, Corruption Among Key Issues For Voters

The NDPP had allied with the saffron party and formed a government in the northeastern state in 2018, with backing from the JD(U) and an Independent.

In 2021, the NPF joined the ruling NDPP-led alliance to form an all-party government named United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

The NDPP-BJP combine is seeking a mandate for the second term, with Neiphiu Rio as the chief ministerial candidate of the alliance.

Four-time Chief Minister and NDPP leader Neiphiu Rio will lock horns with greenhorn Seyievilie Sachu of the Congress in the Northern Angami-II seat.
New Delhi: Hours after arresting Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has said that the former was giving evasive replies and not cooperating in the investigation. The probe agency also said that Sisodia was earlier called on February 19 for investigation, but he sought time for seven days.

"The Deputy CM was issued a notice under section 41A of CrPC for attending the investigation on February 19, 2023. However, he sought time of one week citing his preoccupation. Accepting his request, he was issued a notice u/s 41A CrPC for attending the investigation on February 26, 2023, for answering various questions evaded by him during his examination on October 17, 2022, and further questions relating to his incriminating role based on evidence collected during the investigation of the case. However, he gave evasive replies and did not cooperate the investigation despite being confronted with evidence to the contrary. Therefore, he has been arrested," the CBI said in a statement late on Sunday.

"The arrested accused will be produced before the Designated Court, Delhi," it added further.

Sisodia was arrested by CBI on Sunday after eight-hour-long questioning in an ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy of GNCTD. Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

"Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal`s rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP.

Sisodia also visited Mahatma Gandhi`s memorial Rajghat before his arrest. Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent.

                                



            Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 26, 2023

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Manish is innocent. His arrest is dirty politics. There is a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Manish." "Everyone is watching. People are understanding everything. People will respond to this. This will boost our spirits further. Our struggle will get stronger," he added in the tweet (roughly translated from Hindi). In response to the arrest of their senior leader, Aam Aadmi Party will stage pan-India protests today.

False Allegations Levelled, Not Worried: Sisodia





"I might have to stay in jail for a few months, but I am not worried about it at all," Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said in a letter to Delhiites before he left for the CBI office for his questioning in the Delhi excise policy case on Sunday. He said false allegations have been levelled against him and he is confident that he will be cleared of all charges in court.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal shared Sisodia's letter on Twitter. "These people are going to arrest me today. They have levelled false allegations against me. I am sure all these cases will be dismissed in court, but it might take some time. It is possible that I might have to stay in jail for a few months. But I am not worried about it at all," Sisodia said in his letter, without naming anyone.

"We are followers of Bhagat Singh. He embraced capital punishment for the sake of the country. Going to jail is a small thing," he said. The deputy chief minister had made similar remarks while addressing party workers at Rajghat.

In his message, Sisodia also spoke about his wife, who he said had supported him throughout his journey, but would be left alone after his arrest. "My wife has been very supportive. We have seen many ups and downs. I was working as a journalist and earning well and getting promotions regularly. My career was doing well. Then one day, I quit my job and joined Arvind Kejriwal and started working in jhuggis. The security in life ended but my wife always supported me and gave me strength," he said.

He said his wife has not been keeping well and their only son is in Canada, which means she will be left alone after his arrest. He requested AAP workers to take care of her while he is away. Sisodia, who also holds the education portfolio, asked the children of Delhi to study hard.

"I will get to know you in jail if you will not study or if you bother your parents. That day I will not have food. Do you want your Manish chacha to suffer? Please study with all your heart. I think it will take seven-eight months. I will be back in seven-eight months," he said in an emotional appeal to students.

Talking fondly about Kejriwal, Sisodia said he has received a lot of affection from him. In his message to Kejriwal, he said, "Don't worry about me. You keep on working for the country like this. I feel it is my good fortune that I am going to jail for the country."

Sisodia claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scared of the AAP's rising popularity in the country. "Modiji is scared of Arvind Kejriwal. He is not scared of Rahul Gandhi or any other leader, but only Arvind Kejriwal. They want to trample the AAP and Kejriwal. As the AAP's popularity will grow, the number of false cases against us will also rise," he said.

Concluding his message, Sisodia said the AAP is the only ray of hope for the country and in the future, it will sound the BJP's death knell and free the country from its "atrocities". "In the coming time, the AAP will make the country number one," he asserted.

AAP To Hold Nationwide Protest Against Sisodia's Arrest

Aam Aadmi Party will hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case. AAP`s national general secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday. Taking to Twitter, Pathak on Sunday said, "The great Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who has shaped the future of lakhs of children of the country, has been arrested in a fake case.

The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party`s Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm on Monday. It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat`s Gandhinagar, Haryana`s Rohtak, Noida, etc. The AAP leader, the accused number one in the CBI FIR, was first questioned on October 17.
NEW DELHI: Punjab Chief Minister and AAP leader Bhagwant Mann has strongly condemned the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday. Mann also visited Sisodias residence along with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal late on Sunday to meet his wife and assured her of all support. Later, in a tweet, CM Mann said, "Sisodia's arrest is an insult to the education of lakhs of children of Delhi... Sending the one who builds schools to jail is part of the BJP's agenda."

Both Mann and Kejriwal slammed the BJP-led Centre over his deputy Manish Sisodia's arrest, saying people will respond to it as they are watching how "patriots and honest people" are being jailed while "no action is taken" against those looting the country's banks.



The CBI, which on Sunday arrested Sisodia in connection with alleged corruption in the now-scrapped excise policy relating to the sale of alcohol, has said that the former was giving evasive replies and not cooperating in the investigation. The probe agency also said that Sisodia was earlier called on February 19 for investigation, but he sought time for seven days.

The CBIs move against the AAP leader could plunge the national capital into a governance crisis and further widen the political rift between the AAP and the BJP-led Central government. Sisodia was arrested after nearly eight hours of questioning as his answers were not satisfactory, the CBI officials said.

"Manish Sisodia has been arrested in a completely false case. Manish ji is a gentleman, a patriot as well as an honest and brave person who was busy serving the country round the clock," Kejriwal told reporters after meeting the deputy chief minister's wife at her residence following his arrest.

In a veiled attack on the BJP-led Centre, Kejriwal said, "We are witnessing how gentlemen, patriots, good and honest people are being arrested and jailed in the country. No action is taken against those who looted crores of rupees of banks because they are their friends." "These people do not have the courage to even serve a notice to them because they are their friends. The entire country is watching. People are watching and they will respond to it, he added.

Extending support to Sisodias family, Mann said, "His wife is suffering from a very serious disease. It's multiple sclerosis in which the brain slowly loses control of the body. She is alone at home. Manish used to take care of her." The Punjab Chief Minister added that Sisodia's only son is out of town for studies.

"We consoled her and said she doesn't have to worry as her husband is a very brave man fighting for the country. The entire country is proud of Manish and we are a family and all of us take care of him," Kejriwal added. Speaking to reporters outside Sisodia's residence, Mann alleged that Sisodia has been arrested by the CBI in "a false case" just to "scare and break" the Aam Aadmi Party team.

"This is an extremely cowardly step. AAP is not going to be scared by this. Our party was born out of an anti-corruption movement. We have come from the ground. We are not afraid of the misuse of CBI and ED by the Union government and will continue to serve the people without any fear," he said.

Sisodias Emotional Message To Delhi Voters

"I might have to stay in jail for a few months, but I am not worried about it at all," Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said in a letter to Delhiites before he left for the CBI office for questioning in the Delhi excise policy case on Sunday. He said false allegations have been levelled against him and he is confident that he will be cleared of all charges in court.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal shared Sisodia's letter on Twitter. "These people are going to arrest me today. They have levelled false allegations against me. I am sure all these cases will be dismissed in court, but it might take some time. It is possible that I might have to stay in jail for a few months. But I am not worried about it at all," Sisodia said in his letter, without naming anyone.

"We are followers of Bhagat Singh. He embraced capital punishment for the sake of the country. Going to jail is a small thing," he said. The deputy chief minister had made similar remarks while addressing party workers at Rajghat.

Sisodia claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scared of the AAP's rising popularity in the country. "Modiji is scared of Arvind Kejriwal. He is not scared of Rahul Gandhi or any other leader, but only Arvind Kejriwal. They want to trample the AAP and Kejriwal. As the AAP's popularity will grow, the number of false cases against us will also rise," he said.

AAP To Hold Nationwide Protest Against Sisodia's Arrest

Aam Aadmi Party will hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case. AAP`s national general secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday. Taking to Twitter, Pathak on Sunday said, "The great Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who has shaped the future of lakhs of children of the country, has been arrested in a fake case.

The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party`s Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm on Monday. It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat`s Gandhinagar, Haryana`s Rohtak, Noida, etc. The AAP leader, the accused number one in the CBI FIR, was first questioned on October 17.
Manish Sisodia, the Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi and the head of 18 different departments in the state government, has been arrested by Central Bureau Of Investigation over charges of corruption. Sisodia, who is often projected as the man who brought the issue of education to mainstream politics, is facing corruption charges linked to Delhi's Liquor policy. The arrest has led to protests in various parts of the country.

In today's DNA, Zee News's Rohit Ranjan makes an analysis of Manish Sisodia's arrest and the subsequent protests.

While Sisodia is a minister in Delhi, he is widely considered as number 2 in the party after Arvind Kejriwal. The party workers, anguished with Sisodia's arrest, held protests in Delhi, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, among other paces.

At the AAP headquarters in Delhi, hundreds of party workers and supporters, including the top AAP leadership, gathered to protest against the arrest of Sisodia, who was sent to five-day CBI remand by a Delhi court on Monday.

AAP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh termed Sisodia`s arrest as a well-planned conspiracy hatched by the BJP, and claimed that it has been carried out at this point in time to deflect the questions that are being raised by the people of the country over the link between the Adani Group and the BJP-led Central government.

Watch DNA with Rohit Ranjab to understand in detail the case against Manish Sisodia and the politics being played around it.

Live TV
Ranchi, Feb 27 (IANS) The Jharkhand police on Monday arrested five persons, including two minors accused of gang raping a minor girl when she was returning from a wedding in Dewaki village of Gumla district.

Three of the accused have been sent to jail while the two minors have been sent to a juvenile home on the complaint of the victim lodged at Ghaghra police station.

The incident took place late on Sunday night, when the girl was returning home from the wedding with a female and male friend.

The accused thrashed her two friends and chased them away by threatening to kill them, before gang raping her in the bushes and then fleeing from the spot.

The girl managed to reach home and informed her family of the incident.

The two minors have been sent to the child reform home by the police, while the other three accused have been identified as Naveen Oraon, Bindeshwar Oraon and Lakshmi Oraon.

All the accused confessed to their crime during interrogation.

Police officer Manish Chandra Lal gave information about the incident during a press conference on Monday.

He said that an FIR has been lodged against the accused under various sections including the POCSO Act.

(The above article is sourced from news agency PTI. Zeenews.com has made no editorial changes to the article. News agency PTI is solely responsible for the contents of the article)
New Delhi: Amid the ongoing polling in the Northeast states of Meghalaya and Nagaland, Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday appealed to voters of the two states to give "change a chance". Kharge said the people of the two Northeast states were looking towards progressive and welfare-oriented governments. In a tweet, Kharge said, "Welcome our first-time voters to participate in this democratic process for a better future. Urge our sisters and brothers of Meghalaya and Nagaland to give change a chance".

People of Meghalaya and Nagaland are looking towards progressive, welfare-oriented governments.



Welcome our first time voters to participate in this democratic process for a better future.



Urge our sisters and brothers of Meghalaya and Nagaland to give change a chance.  Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) February 27, 2023

Voting to elect a new government in the single-phased Nagaland Assembly polls began in 59 constituencies at 7 AM on Monday. The electoral fates of 183 candidates across parties will be sealed as polling ends at 4 PM on Monday. People were seen thronging the polling stations to cast their votes on Monday morning. The state had recorded nearly 75 per cent voter turnout in the 2018 Assembly polls and a whopping 90.57 per cent in 2013.

During the high-decibel election campaign that ended on Saturday, all the contesting parties made a last-ditch effort to win over the voters in a bid to swing their mandate in their favour. Many top BJP leaders, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah canvassed for party candidates during the last leg of the campaigning.

The BJP is contesting in alliance with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), which it partnered with in the 2018 Assembly polls as well. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also addressed an election rally in Dimapur while MP Shashi Tharoor addressed a rally in Kohima. The Congress has also hinted at a post-poll alliance if required. There are a total of 13,17,632 electorate in Nagaland, of which 6,61,489 are men and 6,56,143 are women.

Both Nagaland and Meghalaya have 60 seats each in the state Assemblies. Voting is being held in fifty-nine seats in each state. In Meghalaya, polling in the Sohiong seat was deferred after the death of a candidate. Nagaland's Akuluto has already got a BJP legislator after his Congress rival withdrew from the contest.

Meghalaya will witness a multi-cornered contest, where besides the Congress, BJP and Conrad Sangma's NPP (National People's Party), and Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress are in the fray. The opposition Congress and the Naga People's Front are contesting on 23 and 22 seats. Congress has said it can opt for a post-poll alliance if needed.

Polling will not be held in the Sohiong Assembly Constituency in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, following the death of United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate, H. Donkupar Roy Lyngdoh. In Nagaland, BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi was re-elected unopposed from the Akuluto Assembly constituency after his only opponent and Congress nominee Khekashe Sumi withdrew his candidature.

A total of 2,351 polling stations have been put together in the state. According to the Election Commission, 305 companies from central paramilitary forces have been deployed across polling stations in both states to ensure the smooth conduct of the polling process.

The counting of votes will take place on March 2.
New Delhi: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday (February 26, 2023) attacked Sharad Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) after it skipped the customary tea party on the eve of the Budget session of the state legislature. Opposition parties including the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and the Congress also boycotted the tea party hosted by the Shinde government ahead of the budget session of the state legislature, which begins on Monday and will end on March 25.

"In a way, it was good that the opposition did not turn for the high tea when some of them have ties with terrorist Dawood Ibrahim," CM Shinde told reporters.

"Instead of calling our (Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party) alliance as anti-Maharashtra, will you not call such people anti-nationals? There are some people in the opposition parties who have had ties with Haseena Parkar, sister of Dawood Ibrahim," he added.

Shinde was apparently referring to former state minister and NCP leader Nawab Malik, who is currently in jail following his arrest last year in a money-laundering case linked to the activities of Dawood Ibrahim and his aides.

The chief minister also took a dig at senior NCP leader and former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar.

"Ajit Pawar is saying that I changed my allegiance (from Uddhav Thackeray to the BJP), but he should not forget that I am still following what late Balasaheb Thackeray taught us. Even the Election Commission's decision to allot us the name Shiv Sena and symbol (of bow and arrow) proves it," he said.

"Unlike Pawar, who on one day took an oath with Devendra Fadnavis (in November 2019) and changed it again within a couple of days. You need not have to be wise to make any random allegations. Pawar is like a fish out of water. Since he is out of power, he is acting in this manner," Shinde added.

Eknath Shinde-Uddhav Thackeray feud to find echo in Maharashtra Budget session

The ongoing high-decibel political and legal battle between rival Shiv Sena groups led by Eknath Shinde and Uddhav Thackeray is set to resonate in the Maharashtra legislature as its Budget session begins on Monday.

The Shiv Sena led by CM Shinde, buoyed by an Election Commission (EC) ruling in its favour, and the Uddhav Thackeray faction are locked in a bitter feud to lay claim over the 56-year-old party and legacy of its founder Bal Thackeray.

Going by the legislative majority, the EC recently allotted the Shiv Sena name and the 'bow and arrow' poll symbol to the Shinde group while recognising the split in the party, which was rocked by a rebellion in June last year.

The Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprising the NCP, Congress, and Shiv Sena (UBT), will seek to corner the Shinde-BJP government over issues of public interest during the nearly one-month-long session which is expected to be stormy.

The budget session will commence with newly-appointed Governor Ramesh Bais making his first address to the joint sitting of the state legislature.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the finance and planning portfolio, will present the first Budget of the Shinde-led government in the Assembly on March 9.
NEW DELHI: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Manoj Tiwari has reacted to the Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia`s arrest in the liquor scam case and said that the "mastermind" behind the scam is yet to be nabbed. While talking to news agency ANI, Tiwari said, "Law is doing its work. After eight hours of questioning, Manish Sisodia who was accused in the liquor scam case has been arrested." Sisodia has been arrested not only for being accused but also for destroying the evidence. This country`s agencies reach the accused persons sooner or later. Mastermind is yet to be arrested," he added. "A lot of people have been satisfied with his arrest but the arrest of the mastermind is yet to be made," he further added.

Shortly after Manish Sisodia`s arrest, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said ''honest and nationalist'' people are being arrested nationwide. Kejriwal and his wife also reached Deputy CM Manish Sisodia`s residence soon after Sisodia`s arrest. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also reached Sisodia`s residence and assured her of full support.

While speaking to reporters, Kejriwal said, "Manish Sisodia is an honest man. He has been serving the country. He worked hard for underprivileged students and transformed government schools in Delhi. Today he has been arrested." "We are seeing how honest and nationalist people are getting arrested nationwide," he added.

                                



            Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 26, 2023

CBI Arrests Sisodia In Liquor Scam Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case, after eight hours of questioning on Sunday. Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said ''false cases'' are being lodged against leaders as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. "Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases are being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal`s rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP.

He said that the PM, who was not afraid of Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, was scared of the AAP. "Everyone says that only AAP will rid the country of the BJP in the future. Modi-ji may not be scared of Rahul Gandhi but if there`s one party that he is scared of, it is the AAP. They will put me in jail, but we are not afraid. We will fight. Kejriwal is the only future leader of this country," Sisodia said, addressing supporters at Raj Ghat.

He further appealed to Arvind Kejriwal to "keep fighting" for the welfare of the people."I want to tell Kejriwal-ji, please continue with what are you doing. Keep fighting for the welfare of the people," Sisodia said.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers were heard chanting "Modi Mar Gaya" slogans outside Fatehpur Beri Police Station in support of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who appeared before the CBI for interrogation in connection with the alleged excise policy scam on Sunday. The Delhi Police detained 50 workers and leaders of the AAP. Delhi Police said the AAP workers and prominent leaders, including Sanjay Singh, were detained allegedly for violating Section 144 of the CrPC.

"A total of 50 persons, including 42 men and 8 women, were detained," Delhi Police said. The CBI had earlier asked Sisodia to appear for questioning on February 19. Last Sunday, Sisodia requested the central agency to defer questioning saying that he is "preparing the budget" at present and can only appear before it towards February-end.

Sisodia Not Named In CBI Chargesheet

Sisodia has not been named an accused in the CBI chargesheet filed in the case. Arrested businessmen Vijay Nair and Abhishek are among the seven accused named in the chargesheet. In August last year, the CBI searched Sisodia`s bank locker in connection with the case. The deputy CM claimed the sleuths did not find any incriminating material in his locker.

Several raids were conducted at 21 places in Delhi and the National Capital Region, including Sisodia`s residence, and the premises of four public servants last year, according to a CBI officer, who further said that the raids were conducted across 7 states. The CBI launched a probe in the matter on the basis of a report forwarded by the Delhi chief secretary to L-G Saxena recommending a probe by the central agency.

AAP To Hold Nationwide Protest Against Sisodia's Arrest

Aam Aadmi Party will hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case. AAP`s national general secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday. Taking to Twitter, Pathak on Sunday said, "The great Education Minister Manish Sisodia, who has shaped the future of lakhs of children of the country, has been arrested in a fake case.

The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party`s Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm on Monday. It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat`s Gandhinagar, Haryana`s Rohtak, Noida, etc. The AAP leader, the accused number one in the CBI FIR, was first questioned on October 17.
Kohima: After going through every political party`s election manifesto or poll promises, electorates in Nagaland today are poised to cast their votes, keeping issues in mind ranging from separate state`s demands, corruption, etc. There are various issues that have been in the spotlight for years, including the demand for a separate state. The election campaign for the Assembly polls in the state ended on February 25.

The polling will begin at 7 am today and will go on till 4 pm amid tight security. Several political parties, testing their fate in the elections made tall and people-centric poll promises. The Janajati Dharma-Sanksriti Suraksha Mancha`s (JDSSM) Assam chapter has put forward a demand to delist from the Scheduled Tribes those who have converted to other faiths, making it an election issue in poll-bound Meghalaya and Nagaland.

The ruling BJP and its ally NDPP have been accused of maintaining silence on the issue, while the BJP opposed the demand. Earlier, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples` Organisation (ENPO) had called for the boycott of the polls until its demands are met by the Centre. The ENPO had demanded a separate state -- `Frontier Nagaland` comprising six districts of eastern Nagaland -- Tuensang, Mon, Shamator, Kiphire, Noklak and Longleng.

The demand had raised concerns over the uninterrupted and smooth conduct of Assembly polls in nearly 20 constituencies. However, following an assurance by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on February 2 that an agreement will be signed with the ENPO after the elections, the Naga tribal organization withdrew its call for a poll boycott. A forum of MLAs representing the 20 constituencies, named Eastern Nagaland Legislators Union, had rejected the boycott call by the ENPO and announced that they will contest the elections.

The National Socialist Council of Nagaland(IM) and the Naga National Political Groups (NNPG), which is a large firm of seven rebel groups, on January 14 jointly declared their commitment to resolve the rights of the Nagas based on the agreements signed with the central government. Notably, there was a `Framework of Agreement` signed between NSCN(IM) and the Centre in 2015 to resolve the "Naga political issue". While in 2017, Naga National Political Groups signed an `Agreed Position` with the government, the Centre had said that it would sign a single peace accord with all the rebel groups.

During the election campaign, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge charged Prime Minister Narendra Modi with "cheating" the people of Nagaland, claiming that the government failed to resolve the Naga political issue and also questioned its omission from the party`s election manifesto. In March 2022, Amit Shah announced to removal Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) from several districts of Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland.

In October last year, the Centre decided to extend AFSPA in parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland for another six months."Nine districts and 16 police stations in four districts of Nagaland were being declared as `disturbed areas` after a review of the law and order situation in the state," the Home Ministry had said in a notification. Notably, AFSPA has been in force in the whole of Nagaland since 1995. Corruption has emerged to be another big issue in Nagaland ahead of the state polls.

While the Nagaland Congress vowed to end corruption if voted to power, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his election campaign, accused the Congress of using the Northeast as its ATM, neglecting the development of the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attacked the previous Congress governments saying that they considered all states in the Northeast as ATMs, adding that the entire region is now "punishing" the grand old party for its "sins".

"I can sense huge support for the BJP and NDPP. I see so support for the BJP-NDPP government in Nagaland. This is because we are working tirelessly to bring development to the Northeast. Congress and its partners have been following the policy of taking votes, while not doing anything for the welfare of the people. Congress leaders in Delhi have a habit of not looking at Nagaland. Congress and its allies never gave importance to stability and prosperity of the state.

There was always political instability during the Congress rule," PM Modi said while addressing a poll rally here."Congress always ruled the Nagaland government through remote control from Delhi. From Delhi to Dimapur, Congress indulged in dynasty politics.

The entire northeast along with Nagaland is punishing Congress for its sins," he added. The voting for the Assembly elections in Nagaland will take place on Monday, and the counting of votes will be held on March 2 along with those of Tripura and Meghalaya.
Nagaland Elections 2023: Nagaland will witness a cut-throat competition amongst all political parties, many of which decided to go solo for the Election 2023. The voting is currently underway today February 27. The voting began around 7 AM and will continue till 4 PM. ECI has 2,291 polling stations for the Nagaland Elections 2023. While Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge has pleaded the voters of Nagaland to 'give change a chance,' CM Neiphiu Rio expressed his confidence in winning for the fifth time with a record margin. The votes will decide who will be the next Chief Minister of Nagaland. The incumbent coalition of BJP and NDPP is fighting the elections for 60 seats. BJPs candidates are fielding in 20 seats and NDPPs candidates in the rest 40. The total number of voters in Nagaland is 13.9 lakh, including 30,000 first-time voters.

Nagaland Elections Exit Polls 2023: Date & Time

The Assembly elections are underway in Nagaland. It began on February 27 at 7 AM and will conclude at around 4 PM. The results for the Nagaland Elections 2023 will be out on March 2, 2023. The exit polls for the elections will come out on February 27 by pollsters and media outlets.

Nagaland Election Exit Poll Result 2023: Live Streaming Details

Nagaland election will be aired live on TV news channels after the completion of the polling exercise. You can also receive the live updates of Nagaland Elections 2023 on zee website. Prominent news channels in India, like ZeeNews, will also live stream the exit polls on the polling day.

There are a total of 60 assembly seats where 1 is vacant. The National Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) which currently holds 41 seats holds a majority in the house. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has 12 seats. Naga Peoples Front (NPF) currently holds 4 seats.

Earlier, amid voting for the assembly elections in Nagaland, supporters of the National Peoples Party (NPP) and Naga Peoples Front (NPF) engaged in a clash at Bhandari assembly constituency in Nagaland. According to reports, NPF supporters allegedly shot at NPP workers and supporters, which left few NPP supporters injured.
Shillong/Kohima: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday urged the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland to cast their votes in record numbers in the elections to the state Assemblies in the two northeastern states. Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister said, "Urging the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland, particularly the young and first-time voters, to vote in record numbers today."

Urging the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland, particularly the young and first time voters, to vote in record numbers today.  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 27, 2023

In a series of tweets, Amit Shah said, "While Nagaland goes to vote today, I urge sisters and brothers of Nagaland to ensure that the peace process that has already been initiated does not face any hurdles. Only peace can lead Nagaland to its destination of progress and development.

While Nagaland goes to vote today, I urge sisters and brothers of Nagaland to ensure that the peace process that has already been initiated does not face any hurdles.



Only peace can lead Nagaland to its destination of progress and development.  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 27, 2023

As Meghalaya goes to vote today, I would appeal to the voters to elect a corruption-free government in the state. Clean governance will ensure that government schemes reach the poorest of the poor and bring about prosperity in their lives. Come out and vote in large numbers," Shah tweeted.

As Meghalaya goes to vote today, I would appeal to the voters to elect a corruption-free government in the state.



Clean governance will ensure that government schemes reach the poorest of the poor and bring about prosperity in their lives. Come out and vote in large numbers.  Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 27, 2023

Both the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister along with top BJP leaders have campaigned for the party and its allies in the two northeastern states. Voting is currently underway in Meghalaya and Nagaland since 7 AM on Monday and it will continue till 4 PM.

Voting is being held in fifty-nine seats in each state. In Meghalaya, polling in the Sohiong seat was deferred after the death of a candidate. Nagaland's Akuluto has already got a BJP legislator after his Congress rival withdrew from the contest.

Meghalaya will witness a multi-cornered contest, where besides the Congress, BJP and Conrad Sangma's NPP (National People's Party), and Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress are in the fray. The opposition Congress and the Naga People's Front are contesting on 23 and 22 seats. Congress has said it can opt for a post-poll alliance if needed.

Balloting is not being held in one Assembly constituency in each state. Both Nagaland and Meghalaya have 60 seats each in the state Assemblies.

Polling will not be held in the Sohiong Assembly Constituency in the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, following the death of United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate, H. Donkupar Roy Lyngdoh. In Nagaland, BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi was re-elected unopposed from the Akuluto Assembly constituency after his only opponent and Congress nominee Khekashe Sumi withdrew his candidature.

The counting of votes will take place on March 2.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Monday extended protection from coercive action to Congress leader Pawan Khera till March 3 in connection with a case with cases lodged against him for making alleged insulting remarks on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's father. The top court also granted time to Assam and Uttar Pradesh governments to file replies to Khera's plea and said that "interim bail granted to him will continue.''

Remarks against PM: SC extends protection from coercive action to Congress leader Pawan Khera till March 3  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 27, 2023

The Supreme Court had on Thursday issued a notice to Assam and the UP Police over the Congress leader's plea seeking clubbing of FIRs and granted him interim protection from arrest. The Supreme Court further directed the Dwaraka Court to release the petitioner on interim bail till the next date of hearing.

The top court passed the order while hearing a plea challenging Congress leader Pawan Khera's arrest in connection with his alleged insulting statements on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's father. Khera had earlier moved the Supreme Court seeking relief in multiple FIRs lodged against him in Assam, and Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow and Varanasi. Senior advocate A M Singhvi, who appeared for Khera in the matter which was listed before a bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, sought interim relief for the Congress leader and consolidation of FIRs since several are being registered across the country. Singhvi told the Supreme Court that Khera had apologised and said that it was a mistake, a slip of tongue.

Khera was arrested on Thursday morning at the Delhi airport after being deplaned from a flight to Raipur in connection with his alleged remarks against Modi at the request of Assam Police.

During the hearing, Singhvi told the bench that multiple FIRs have been lodged against Khera over his alleged remarks against the prime minister. "He (Khera) has made statements in a press conference. He has made certain statements which I cannot say in the court but I personally would not have made," Singhvi said.

He said due to the statements, multiple FIRs have been lodged against Khera in different states and, currently, Assam Police are at the airport to take him into custody. Khera, against whom a case has been registered in Assam, was asked by the Delhi Police to deplane. Congress leaders accompanying him sat on the tarmac in protest and resisted efforts to take him away without an arrest warrant.

Senior Delhi Police officials later handed over a document from Assam Police seeking their help in arresting Khera. Congress leader Randeep Surjewala accompanied Khera to a police station at the airport where there was a huge deployment of CISF. Pawan Khera was arrested under various sections of 120B/153A/153B/500/504/505/502, which includes criminal conspiracy and inciting communal disharmony.

Pawan Khera recently referred to the Prime Minister as "Narendra Gautamdas Modi" while criticising the Central government over the row involving the business conglomerate headed by Gautam Adani. The ruling party has accused him of making fun of the prime minister and his late father.

PM's Modi's full name is Narendra Damodardas Modi, with the middle name Damodardas standing for his father's name, a common practice in many parts of the country.
Raipur: Days after Sonia Gandhi said that her innings have ended, Congress spokesperson Alka Lamba has clarified that she has not retired, but will continue to bless and guide the party leaders and workers. Lamba speaking in the Congress Plenary said, "I had a chance to speak with Sonia Gandhi ji for two minutes. Madam, your comment yesterday was interpreted as taking retirement from politics. I am happy to share that Sonia ji told me that we will continue to get her blessings and guidance in the future". Lamba said that this is to inform the delegates and the nation that Sonia Gandhi is not retiring from politics.

While addressing the 85th All India Congress Committee (AICC) plenary session on Saturday, former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi launched an all-out attack on the BJP government, accusing it of "fuelling the fire of hatred" and "viciously targeting minorities, women, Dalits and tribals".

She was speaking after the party passed a Resolution of Appreciation for her as the plenary marked a formal end to the 25-year stint as the Congress president  the longest ever in the party.

"Our victories in 2004 and 2009 along with the able leadership of Dr Manmohan Singh gave me personal satisfaction but what gratifies me most is that my innings could conclude with the Bharat Jodo Yatra," said Sonia Gandhi while addressing the party`s 85th Plenary session in Raipur on Saturday.

She said that the Yatra has come as a turning point for Congress. It has proved that the people of India overwhelmingly want harmony, tolerance and equality, she added. "It (Yatra) has renewed the rich legacy of dialogue between our party and the public through a mass contact program. It has shown us that the Congress stands with the people and is ready to fight for them," said Gandhi while congratulating the party workers for working hard for the Yatra.

Gandhi thanked all leaders, and the people of the country for participation in the Yatra and for love and support. "I especially thank Rahul ji whose determination and leadership was crucial in the Yatra`s success," she said.

Sonia Gandhi said she was happy that her innings could conclude with the Bharat Jodo Yatra, with the party asserting that the remark was about her tenure as the party president and had nothing to do with her retirement from politics.

The Congress Steering Committee unanimously decided not to hold elections to the Congress Working Committee (CWC) and authorised party chief Mallikarjun Kharge to nominate its members.

Kharge said his party is willing to forge a viable alternative by aligning with like-minded parties in order to get rid of the "anti-people" BJP government in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and is ready to make any sacrifice required to achieve the goal.

The Congress said it is the only party that can provide capable and decisive leadership to the country, but is ready to make sacrifices to defeat the BJP-led NDA and would go all out to identify, mobilise and align like-minded secular forces to achieve its goal.

The Congress carried out 85 amendments in its constitution at its plenary session to provide 50 per cent reservation to Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), women, youth and minorities in its working committee and at all party positions.
Hyderabad, Feb 27 (IANS) An engineering third year student in Telangana`s Warangal district has committed suicide as she upset over some photographs uploaded on social media by her two childhood friends.

Rakshitha (20) was found hanging from a ceiling fan at her relative`s house at Ramannapet in Warangal town on Sunday night.

Hailing from Bhupalpally, she was a third year B.Tech (ECE) student at an engineering college in Narsampet.

According to police, the girl had a friendship with Jaswant and Rahul, who were her classmates in 10th class. She took the extreme step as they had uploaded some photographs taken in the past on social media.

Police booked against Jaswant and Rahul and formed special teams to apprehend them.

Police clarified that it was not a case of ragging as claimed on social media. A police officer said the two youths were not studying college.

Warangal police were also trying to get the information about the past record of Jaswant and Rahul.

Rahul was allegedly harassing the girl for some time. The family had lodged a complaint with Bhupalapally police, who had summoned the youth and counselled him.

Rakshitha, who had come home at Bhupalapally on Mahashivratri, left for college the next day. However, she did not reach the college and her parents had lodged a missing complaint with the police. Two days later, she returned home.

As she told her father P. Shankar that she was facing difficulties in staying at the hostel, he sent her to his brother`s house at Ramannapet. She was to go to Bhupalapally police station on Monday in connection with the missing case. However, a day before she died by suicide at her uncle`s house.

(The above article is sourced from news agency IANS. Zeenews.com has made no editorial changes to the article. News agency IANS is solely responsible for the contents of the article)
New Delhi: Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti visited the residence of slain Sanjay Sharma in Achan Pulwama on Monday (February 27) who was killed by terrorists on Sunday (February 26). Mehbooba Mufti blamed the BJP for the deteriorating situation in the Valley. She also questioned the government on what they were doing about changing the situation in the Valley.



''BJP is using Kashmiri Pandits as a weapon, by making films on them, selling their pain in the rest of the country to create a rift between Hindus and Muslims, they have no agenda other than this," said Mehbooba Mufti. The PDP Chief further added, "If militancy is over then who killed Sanjay Sharma yesterday What is the government doing to protect Pandits? I want to appeal to Muslims of Kashmir valley, no doubt there is suppression by BJP and by terrorism, Kashmiri Pandits and others are our assets we should save them anyhow".

Earlier the BJP took out a protest in Srinagar against Pakistan for fuelling terrorism in the Valley. The protestors raised slogans against Pakistan and Burnt an effigy and demanded stern action against the terrorists involved in the killing of the Kashmiri Pandit.

"We strongly condemn the killing of innocent people by terrorists. The selective killings of minority community members in Kashmir are aimed at disturbing the social fabric and brotherhood among Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits" said BJP leader Sajjid Yousuf. Sajid further said that "it's not possible for the government to provide security to every individual from a minority community but if locals of Kashmir started to report terrorist movements and deny them all help the day will not be far that these killings will stop once for all''.

Yesterday, the locals of Pulwama held a protest demonstration and candlelight March against the killing of Sanjay Shamr.

The LG of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha while speaking to the media said that ''it is extremely unfortunate and I condemn this killing, whoever is responsible for these acts, Our security forces will make sure to deal with them. It does raise security concerns among the people, but we are working on the situation, and we will make sure the situation is brought to normal."

BJP's state head Ravindra Raina also visited the family of Sanjay Sharma. ''The Brutal killing of Sanjay Sharma is condemnable. BJP will do everything to help the family. The LG administration will make sure to help the family. I can see a huge number of Kashmiri Muslims have also attended to the family and have gathered for the final rites. The locals are standing with them and its Kashmiriyat. But some who can't see peace here want to disturb the situation."

The family and people at Pulwama were seen in pain and fear having less hope that the situation will turn up good in the future, the family members said that they don't feel secure anymore in Kashmir now they want to leave this place they said the Muslim neighbors are very good and supportive but who knows who the enemy is said Sunita Sharma wife of Sanjay. "Very bad happened to us why haven't migrated from here, he was labour...why was he killed... we need justice, we don't want to live here, our enemy had come to our gate how can we live here?" She added.

Usha Sharma Sanjay's brother's wife said " I was like her mother I had fed him we want government should do something for his family for his kids provide job to his wife" Muslims here helped a lot of but we don't know where from enemy came, we don't feel secure ow here"

Apart from family, all villages are questioning the security scenario in the valley and raising questions saying that security agencies have failed to protect people from target killings.


During a video call with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi on Monday, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Egypts important role in combatting extremism, the Egyptian presidency said.

According to the presidency statement, the two sides stressed the importance of continuing coordination and consultation in international forums, to deal with various issues, including combatting terrorism and extremism at all levels, including intellectual and cultural levels.

The Malaysian prime minister praised Egypt's important role in this context, pointing to the great value of Al-Azhar and moderate Islamic institutions in Egypt, the presidency added.

El-Sisi and Ibrahim also discussed increasing joint investments in energy, telecommunications, information technology and car manufacturing as well as other fields that contribute to maximising the use of the comparative advantages of each country in order to achieve economic integration and comprehensive development.

The two also exchanged views about regional and international issues of common interest and ways to achieve security and stability in the Middle East as well as on an international level in light of ongoing challenges.

The volume of trade exchange between Egypt and Malaysia reached about $1 billion in 2021, recording an 80 percent increase compared to 2020, according to previous statements of the Egyptian foreign ministry.

According to Malaysian officials, Egypt remained Malaysias largest trading partner in the North Africa region and has been among Malaysias top six largest trading partners in Africa in 2021.

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In a major setback to the Aam Aadmi Party, a Delhi court today ordered Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia to be in the custody of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for 5 days, in connection with the liquor policy case. Sisodia was arrested by the agency on Sunday following eight hours of questioning.

Here are the events that lead to Sisodia's 5-day custody

April 20, 2022: The events leading to Sisodia's arrested started in April last year, when Naresh Kumar was appointed as the Delhi Chief Secretary. He went on to examine the files of the new liquor policy and found irregularities. While examining the reports, he found that undue benefits were extended to private parties, causing loss to the government exchequer. He prepared a report accusing Sisodia of providing undue benefits to liquor vend licensees and sent it to Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.

July 22, 2022: Taking cognisance of Kumar's report, Delhi Lieutenant Governor ordered a CBI probe into the matter. Soon after, the new liquor policy was scrapped by the Delhi government. Aam Aadmi Party also targeted the Delhi LG and BJP for defaming Sisodia by framing a false allegation.

August 17, 2022: The probe agency registered a case against Sisodia on charges of cheating, and bribing in the new excise policy (2021-22).

August 19, 2022: An FIR was filed naming 15 persons with Manish Sisodia topping the list. The probe agency carried out searches at 25 places in Delhi, Punjab and other parts. Sisodia's official residence was also raided for over 14 hours.

20th August 2022: Enforcement Directorate intervened to seek case details from CBI. Later, ED also filed a money laundering case revolving around excise policy. Manish Sisodia was also summoned by the CBI so that his bank lockers can be opened in his presence. During the week, several locations in Delhi, Mumbai and other cities were raided. AAP leader Manoj Nagpal also resigned from AAP, accusing party of corruption.

September 16, 2022: Acting on the Delhi court's permission, cabinet minister Satyendra Jain was questioned by the ED officials. He was in Tihar jail in another case. Later, ED also summoned AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak. He was present at Vijay Nair's house when ED raided his residence in Mumbai.

September 27, 2022: CBI made its first arrest in the case. AAP communication in-charge Vijay Nair was nabbed. Later, ED also arrested Delhi-based alcohol businessman Sameer Mahendru.

August 20, 2022: Resigning for the party, AAP leader Manoj Nagpal accused the party of corruption. AAP today has become a corrupt party. AAPs excise policy boosted the youngsters to consume more alcohol and furthered their addiction, he said.

October 7, 2022: Raid and search operations were carried out at 35 locations in NCR, Punjab, and Telangana. Till now, as many as 138 locations have been searched. ED seized Rs 1 crore from a beneficiary of the excise policy. During the time, Abhishek Boinpally was also arrested by the CBI.

November 10, 2022: ED arrested two businessmen belonging to Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in connection with Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 money laundering case. ED and CBI continued their search operations and data monitoring to catch big fish in the case.

November 25, 2022: CBI filed its first chargesheet against seven people. However, Sisodia was not named in the charge sheet. The CBI kept open the probe against Sisodia and other FIR named accused.

February 8, 2022: The probe agency arrested Hyderabad-based chartered accountant Butchi Babu Gorantla in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

February 18, 2023: CBI called Manish Sisodia for questioning in the case. However, he appealed to defer the quizzing round to month-end as he's occupied with Budget preparations. Later, he was summoned on February 26 by the CBI.

February 26, 2022: CBI summoned Manish Sisodia for questioning in Delhi Excise Policy case. Sisodia arrived at the CBI heeadquarters along with AAP workers, staging a show of strength. The questioning is underway.
Mumbai: leader Uddhav Thackeray on Monday attacked the Election Commission for declaring the party faction led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as the real Shiv Sena and allotting it the 'bow and arrow' symbol. Thackeray said he no longer had trust in the apex poll body, adding it should be called "Election Chuna Lagao Aayog". "Chuna Lagana" is street lingo for defrauding somebody.

"The Election Commission is bogus. It should be called the Election Chuna Lagao Aayog. We have lost trust in it," Thackeray said at a party event on the occasion of Marathi Language Day.

He claimed the Election Commission should not have given its decision on the party name and symbol when hearings connected to it were underway in the Supreme Court.

The former CM said the EC had given a symbol each to Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party factions headed by party founder late Ram Vilas Paswan's son Chirag and Paswan's brother Pashupati Kumar Paras in a dispute similar to the one in the Sena. However, both factions are quiet over it as they are with the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party, Thackeray alleged.

He claimed parties had begun uniting against the BJP and referred to his meeting with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his conversations with West Bengal and Bihar CMs Mamata Banerjee and Nitish Kumar, respectively.

He said if the opposition does not come together against the BJP, the 2024 Lok Sabha polls could be the last in the country.

Attacking Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde and his supporters, Thackeray said they were "creepers" who had started thinking of themselves as the host tree.

Those who don't have values resort to stealing, Thackeray said in a swipe at the Shinde faction, though he did not name anybody.

He dared Shinde and Bharatiya Janata Party to contest polls.

Shinde had rebelled against Thackeray in June last year, which split the Shiv Sena and brought down the Maha Vikas Aghadi government also comprising the Nationalist Congress Party and the Congress.
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday said he was a witness to the planning of the previous Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government to arrest then leader of opposition and current deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and his BJP colleague Girish Mahajan. Shinde made the sensational claim while speaking to reporters here on the eve of the Maharashtra Assembly's Budget session.

"I was a witness to the ongoing planning of the MVA government to arrest then leader of opposition Devendra Fadnavis and Girish Mahajan. That government had even planned to invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act 1999 against Mahajan. I cannot repeat what I had said that time to stop them," Shinde said.

"Instead of changing the decision, I later toppled the whole government and made them (MVA) sit at home. The strategy was to put the Bharatiya Janata Party on the backfoot (through the arrests)," Shinde claimed.

ALSO READ | Maharashtra Budget Session: Good That Those Having Links With Dawood Didn't Come, Says Shinde After NCP Skips High Tea

When asked why his government was not taking action against those involved in this conspiracy, the CM said, "Dethroning is enough for them. I am well aware of who was indulging in such practices. If required, we will initiate an inquiry into the matter."

Fadnavis had made the claim about a plan to arrest him by the Uddhav Thackeray government during a media interaction in January this year.

However, the NCP's Dilip Walse Patil, who was a home minister under Thackeray, refuted this claim.

Incidentally, Fadnavis now handles the home portfolio, while Mahajan is the state medical education and research minister.
Kolkata: Actor Ranbir Kapoor, is currently busy promoting his upcoming romantic comedy film `Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar`. On Sunday, during a media interaction in Kolkata, the `Sanju` actor fondly talked about his newborn daughter Raha Kapoor and said that he does not feel like leaving his home these days after Raha has come into their lives.

Ranbir said, "This morning, even to get that 20 minutes with her before my flight, it just rejuvenates you. I miss her a lot, I keep seeing her photos" "Are you a father?" Ranbir questioned a media person. "No", the reporter replied. "Okay! I wish that upon you because it`s truly the best feeling in the world," the actor smiled.

"It feels like a new understanding of love. You were asking me about the language of love, but the baby has no language. It`s a love you cannot describe," he added. Ranbir tied the knot with actor Alia Bhatt on April 14, 2022, after dating for years at Ranbir`s Mumbai residence in an intimate ceremony and the couple welcomed their first child, Raha in November last year.

The `Rockstar` also shared some fun moments from his parenthood journey and said "I`m a burping specialist! I never knew burping is such a big part (in the early stages of a child). Whenever I`m at home, I`m always beside her and it`s magical. She has just started smiling in the last two weeks. And seeing that smile breaks your heart," said Ranbir.

Meanwhile, on the work front, the `Besharam` actor will be next seen in director Luv Ranjan`s next rom-com film `Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar` opposite Shraddha Kapoor. Apart from that, he also has director Sandeep Reddy Vanga`s next `Animal` in his kitty.
New Delhi: PM Modi and Singapore counterpart witnessed the integration of Indias UPI and Singapore Pay Now to allow citizens of both countries to transfer funds, remittances, and payments in a quick and real-time manner. The facility will allow people residing in each others country to send foreign remittances without any need to fill bank details and more.

The major question for the travelers, workers and students remain, how to send the remittance? Indians can use State Bank of India Bhim SBI Pay to send or receive money from Singapore through UPI using the app.

BHIM SBI Pay (UPI App of SBI) is a payment solution that allows account holders of all Banks participating in UPI to send money, receive money and do online bill payments, recharges, shopping, etc. using their smartphones.

What are the available features?

You can send money instantly to Singapore using UPI.

Users can receive money from Singapore instantly using UPI.

The maximum per day limit for sending or receiving money is $1000 or 82,644.10.

It will be depending on realtime exchange rate calculation.

How to Start the App?

Go to Google Play Store/ Apple App Store.

Dowload the latest version of BHIM SBI Pay.

Click on the Install/Open button and complete the steps for registration.

Please ensure that you have linked your mobile number with your bank account.

A Customer needs to register with BHIM SBI Pay after downloading it in his/her mobile and link his/her accounts for remitting funds using UPI.

Some common FAQs regarding the BHIM SBI App?

What is a Virtual Payment Address (VPA)?

"Virtual Payment Address" is a virtual ID which is unique. For example, name or number or a combination of numbers and characters followed by @sbi that you can choose for yourself, like, ramesh@sbi or 7051448888@sbi.

Your account is linked to a VPA. So, you can pay/receive money using your VPA instead of sharing bank account details.

How can I generate a Virtual Payment Address (VPA)?

"Virtual Payment Address" is a virtual ID which is unique. For example, name or number or a combination of numbers and characters followed by @sbi that you can choose for yourself, like, ramesh@sbi or 7051448888@sbi.

Your account is linked to a VPA. So, you can pay/receive money using your VPA instead of sharing bank account details.
New Delhi: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme 13th Installment update -- Lakhs of farmers waiting for the update transfer of funds under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme (PM-KISAN) will get the latest tranche today. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Yojna 13th Installment money might be transferred on Monday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his visit to Karnataka.

PM Modi will hand out the 13th tranche of around Rs 16,000 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) to eligible farmers today. PM-KISAN installment money will be released through direct benefits transfer to more than 8 crore beneficiaries.

The central government provides benefits of Rs 6,000 every financial year to farming families by directly transferring the money to the their bank accounts. All the three installments of the current financial year have been transferred in the bank accounts of the farmers while it is believed that the next installment (13th installment) will on February 24.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Yojna 13th Installment to be released on February 24?

Although there has been no official confirmation regarding the release of 13th Installment of PM-KISAN, media reports are stating that money could be transferred on 24th February 2023 --the day when Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme completes 4 years.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Yojna

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had released the 12th instalment of financial benefit under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. Modi transferred over Rs 16,000 crores to more than 10 lakh beneficiary farmer families on Monday, October 17.

PM Kisan Samman Nidhi 13th installment Status Check

-Visit official PM KISAN website https://pmkisan.gov.in/ Portal

- You will see the map of India under Payment Success tab.

- On the right hand side, there will be a yellow coloured tab called "Dashboard"

- Click on Dashboard

- After clicking, you will be taken to a new page

- On the Village Dashboard tab, you will have to fill your complete details

- Select the state, district, Sub-District and Panchayat

- Then click on show button

- After this you can choose your details



Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme Details

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme, was launched by PM Narendra Modi in 2019, aims to provide income support to all landholder farmer families across the country with cultivable land, subject to certain exclusions.

Under the Scheme, the amount of Rs 6000 per year is released in three 4-monthly instalments of Rs 2000 each directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

Who are eligible to get benefits under the PM-KISAN Scheme?

All landholding farmers' families, which have cultivable landholding in their names are eligible to get benefit under the scheme.

Who are excluded from the PM-KISAN Scheme?

Those excluded from the PM-KISAN include institutional land holders, farmer families holding constitutional posts, serving or retired officers and employees of State or Central government as well as Public Sector Undetakings and Government Autonomous bodies. Professionals like doctors, engineers and lawyers as well as retired pensioners with a monthly pension of over Rs 10,000 and those who paid income tax in the last assessment year are also not eligible for the benefits.



PM-KISAN Scheme for only Small and Marginal Farmers' families?

ln the beginning when the PM- PM-KISAN Scheme was launched (February, 2019), its benefits were admissible only to Small & marginal Farmers' families, with combined landholding upto 2 hectare. The Scheme was later on revised in June 2019 and extended to all farmer families irrespective of the size of their landholdings

The Central Government had notified a decision to extend the benefit of Rs 6,000 per year under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme to all 14.5 crore farmers in the country, irrespective of the size of their landholding.
New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi released the 13th tranche of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) on Monday benefiting over lakhs of farmers across the country. The PM released the funds worth of Rs16,000 crore to 8 crore beneficiary farmers under PM-Kisan Yojana. Under the scheme, eligible farmer families are provided  6,000/ year in three equal installments of  2,000 each.

PM-KISAN installment money will be released through direct benefits transfer to more than 8 crore beneficiaries. The central government provides benefits of Rs 6,000 every financial year to farming families by directly transferring the money to the their bank accounts.

While speaking to farmers in Belgav, Karnataka, PM Modi said, Till now, through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, about Rs 2.5 lakh crore have been deposited in the accounts of our farmers.

PM-KISAN Yojna Previous Instalment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had released the 12th instalment of financial benefit under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. Modi transferred over Rs 16,000 crores to more than 10 lakh beneficiary farmer families on Monday, October 17.

Check PM Kisan Samman Nidhi 13th installment Status

-Visit official PM KISAN website https://pmkisan.gov.in/ Portal

- You will see the map of India under Payment Success tab.

- On the right hand side, there will be a yellow coloured tab called "Dashboard"

- Click on Dashboard

- After clicking, you will be taken to a new page

- On the Village Dashboard tab, you will have to fill your complete details

- Select the state, district, Sub-District and Panchayat

- Then click on show button

- After this you can choose your details

Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme Details

The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme, was launched by PM Narendra Modi in 2019, aims to provide income support to all landholder farmer families across the country with cultivable land, subject to certain exclusions.

Under the Scheme, the amount of Rs 6000 per year is released in three 4-monthly instalments of Rs 2000 each directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

All landholding farmers' families, which have cultivable landholding in their names are eligible to get benefit under the scheme.

Those excluded from the PM-KISAN include institutional land holders, farmer families holding constitutional posts, serving or retired officers and employees of State or Central government as well as Public Sector Undetakings and Government Autonomous bodies. Professionals like doctors, engineers and lawyers as well as retired pensioners with a monthly pension of over Rs 10,000 and those who paid income tax in the last assessment year are also not eligible for the benefits.
Kyiy: Amid the ongoing fighting with Russia, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will be killed by his close confidants. The Ukrainian leader made this claim in a documentary titled 'Year' featuring him, according to a report in Newsweek. In the documentary, the Ukrainian leader can be seen claiming that a period of "fragility" in the Russian President's leadership will come, prompting his close aide to act against him. The documentary was released on Friday to coincide with the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Newsweek reported.

The Washington Post had earlier reported that Putins closest allies are growing increasingly frustrated with him after videos from the battlefront showed their soldiers complaining and crying.

In a related development, Zelenskyy on Sunday fired the commander of the joint forces operation Major Gen Eduard Mykhailovich Moskalov, reported CNN. Moskalov had been appointed to the position last March when Lt Gen Oleksandr Pavliuk was appointed head of the Kyiv regional military administration. Zelenskyy did not provide an explanation for Moskalov`s dismissal, but it`s the latest in a long line of recent leadership changes made by his administration, reported CNN.

Ukrainian authorities have conducted a series of anti-corruption searches and crackdowns across the country, and a variety of high-profile dismissals have followed. It is not yet clear if Moskalov`s firing was connected to the recent corruption purge, reported CNN.

As the war in Ukraine enters its second year, CIA Director William Burns has Sunday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is being 'too confident' in his military's ability to grind Ukraine into submission.

Burns, in a television interview, said the head of Russia's intelligence services had displayed in their November meeting 'a sense of cockiness and hubris' that reflected Putin's own beliefs that he can make time work for him, that he believes he can grind down the Ukrainians, that he can wear down our European allies, that political fatigue will eventually set in.

Meanwhile, Putin said in an interview broadcast on Sunday that after Russia suspended its participation in the last arms control agreement with Washington, it would 'take into account' the nuclear weapons capabilities not only of the United States but of other NATO countries such as France and Britain.

Putin had said in a speech suspending Russia's role in the 2010 New START treaty earlier this week that France and Britain, not parties to the agreement, had joined the United States in targeting Russia with nuclear weapons. In an interview with Russian TV that was recorded on Wednesday and broadcast on Sunday, he said he took the action to "preserve our country, ensure security and strategic stability."

He added, "In today's conditions, when all the leading NATO countries have declared their main goal to inflict a strategic defeat on us, to make our people suffer ... How can we not take into account their nuclear capabilities? Moreover, they supply weapons to Ukraine worth tens of billions of dollars."

Putin was repeating his common theme that the West is bent on destroying Russia and that his one-year-old fight in Ukraine is part of a battle for Russia's very survival. He argued a year ago that his overarching goal in invading Ukraine was to reduce what he perceived as threats to Russia's security and has since cited those as justification for potentially using nuclear weapons in Ukraine.

As Western military aid poured into the invaded country, the Russian leader and his foreign minister have portrayed the war as a de facto fight between Russia and not just Ukraine but NATO.

Ukraine's allies have emphasised they want to avoid becoming direct fighting parties in the war while equipping Ukraine to defend itself and to retake Russian-captured territory. In suspending his country's participation, Putin said Russia can't accept US inspections of its nuclear sites while Washington and its NATO allies seek Russia's defeat in Ukraine.

The Russian President emphasized that Moscow was not withdrawing from the pact, and the Russian Foreign Ministry said the country would respect the treaty's caps on nuclear weapons and continue notifying the US about test launches of ballistic missiles.

In the interview with Russian TV, Putin didn't elaborate on how he would 'take into account' the nuclear arsenals of NATO countries beyond those of the United States but indicated he was open to ''discussion of this topic from the center of the field.''

Putin also used the interview to allege that the West wants to break up Russia, a notion that he has repeatedly used to justify Russian aggression in Ukraine. "They have one goal: to disband the former Soviet Union and its fundamental part, the Russian Federation,'' Putin said.

Appealing to his citizenry's nationalistic sentiments, Putin predicted that if the West succeeds in destroying Russia and establishing control, Russians may not survive as a distinct ethnic group. ''There will be Muscovites, some kind of people from the Urals, and so on,'' he said of Russia's possible fragmentation into regional groupings. The West could only partly accept Russia into the so-called ''family of civilized peoples,'' breaking the country into separate pieces, he theorized.

Claiming threats to Russians' survival is a favourite Putin theme, and Tatiana Stanovaya, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, noted in a recent interview with The Associated Press that ''for him, it's all about protection, and he believes that the Russian world has been attacked from the West, and Ukrainians are a part of this Russian world.''

Claiming the West and not Russia provoked the war in Ukraine is also a favourite Putin topic that many Russians buy into, said Fiona Hill, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution who served in the past three US presidential administrations.

US President Joe Biden countered some of Putin's claims in a speech in Poland's capital, Warsaw, on Tuesday. ''The United States and the nations of Europe do not seek to control or destroy Russia. The West was not plotting to attack Russia, as Putin said today," Biden said. "And millions of Russian citizens who only want to live in peace with their neighbors are not the enemy.
The city of Sharm El-Sheikh is going to host in March the upcoming round of talks between the Palestinian National Authority and the Government of Israel with the participation of Egypt, Jordan and the United States to follow up their Aqaba meeting, a joint statement said on Sunday.

A security meeting between the officials from the Palestinian Authority and the Israeli government in attendance of officials from the United States, Jordan and Egypt took place earlier Sunday in the Jordanian city of Aqaba where the two sides affirmed their commitment to all previous agreements between them, and to work towards a just and lasting peace.

The joint statement issued at the meeting stated that both the Israeli and Palestinian officials reaffirmed the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground and to prevent further violence.

The five parties recognise the importance of upholding unchanged the historic status quo at the holy sites in Jerusalem in word and practice and emphasises in this regard the Hashemite Custodianship / special role of Jordan, the joint statement said.

The statement said that the Israeli government and Palestinian Authority confirmed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of three to six months.

The joint statement also added an Israeli commitment to stop the discussion of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorisation of any outposts for six months was reached.

The five parties agreed to convene again in Sharm El-Sheikh in March to achieve and follow up on the goals listed above.

The participants also agreed to pursue confidence-building measures and strengthen mutual trust in order to address outstanding issues through direct dialogue, the statement said, adding that the Palestinians and Israelis will work in good faith to assume responsibilities and to enhance mutual trust through this arrangement.

The Aqaba meeting is the first meeting of its kind in years according to a statement released by the US Department of State.

The statement also revealed that participants agreed to continue meeting under this formula and expand this agreement towards a wider political process leading to a just and lasting peace.

The statement added that the participants thanked Jordan for organising and hosting this meeting and for its efforts to ensure it produced positive results. It also thanked Egypt for its support and essential role and active participation.

They also thanked the United States for its important role in efforts to reach understandings that led to this agreement in the meeting.

Sources with knowledge of the meeting told AFP that the Palestinian Intelligence Chief Majed Faraj and the head of Israel's Shin Bet domestic security agency Ronen Bar were set to be in attendance.

US National Security Council coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa Brett McGurk, as well as Jordanian and Egyptian security officials were also expected to be present, the sources added on condition of anonymity as they were not authorised to speak to the media.

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In a meeting with Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly on Monday in Doha Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamed said that the Gulf state will increase the size of the Qatari investments and cooperation in Egypt in the upcoming period.

According to the Egyptian cabinet, Sheikh Tamim asserted in his meeting with the Egyptian Prime Minister Qatars keenness to boost its economic relations with Egypt and to increase the size of Qatari investments.

The Emir of Qatar added that the Egyptian economy was doing very well during the past years and that Egypt was making rapid progress in multiple sectors, but that both the Covid-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian-Russian crisis have cast a shadow on Egypt as well as the rest of the world.

Tamim bin Hamed also added that the Egyptian state still has very great potential and that it was important to continue in development efforts and plans, noting that there will be an increase in the upcoming period in the volume of Qatari investments and in cooperation between the two countries.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly also met on Monday with Qatari Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al-Thani.

They discussed increasing the size of trade exchange between Egypt and Qatar as well as the cooperation between the two countries in the field of green hydrogen in light of Egypts potential for production at a competitive cost.

They also discussed the possibility of exporting energy to Europe through a pipeline.

The two prime ministers agreed during the meeting on preparing a visit for a delegation of Qatari businessmen to free zones as well as to the Suez Canal economic zone.

Primer Mostafa Madbouly and his Qatari counterpart attended on Monday the signing of an agreement to prevent dual taxation and tax evasion.



The deal was signed by Egyptian Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait and his Qatari counterpart Mohamed El-Kawari.

Egyptian Cabinet Spokesman Nader Saad said that the agreement is part of efforts to develop relations between the two countries in various economic fields and to encourage investment chances and eliminate obstacles hindering economic and investment measures.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly arrived in Doha on Sunday evening, leading a high-level delegation for an official visit to Qatar.

Qatari Minister of Transport Jassim bin Saif bin Ahmed Al-Sulaiti, Qatari Ambassador to Egypt Salem bin Mubarak Al-Shafi, and Egyptian Ambassador in Doha Amr El-Sherbini received the Egyptian delegation upon their arrival at Doha International Airport.



The ministers of planning, health, finance, trade and industry are accompanying the premier during his visit, along with the heads of the Suez Canal Economic Authority and the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones, and representatives of the bodies concerned.

The Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics (CAPMAS) revealed on Monday that the value of trade exchange between Egypt and Qatar increased to $ 80.1 million in the first 11 months of 2022, compared to $ 45.5 million in 2021, recording an increase of 76.2 percent.

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French President Emmanuel Macron will unveil on Monday his country's changing economic and military strategy in Africa in the coming years, as France's influence substantially declines on the continent.

Macron is expected to call for a more balanced partnership with African nations, in a speech at the Elysee presidential palace before he begins an ambitious Africa trip on Wednesday to Gabon, Angola, the Republic of Congo and Congo.

Monday's speech comes at a time when Frances influence on the continent is facing more challenges than it has in decades.

In less than a year, French troops had to withdraw from Mali, which turned instead to Russian military contractors, and most recently from Burkina Faso, which also appears to increasingly look towards Moscow.

A growing anti-France sentiment has led to street protests in several West and North African countries against the former colonial power.

In addition, historical economic ties that France had with the region are being challenged by the growing commercial presence of Russia, China and Turkey.

"Its not a trip that aims at getting into the race to regain a regretted influence," a top official at the French presidency said. The trip isn't aimed to "try to get back to the past. Its more to respond to a demand for partnership, for relations, but with new methods and a new approach," he said.

The official was speaking on condition of anonymity in line with the French presidency's customary practices.

Macron is notably expected to detail changes that France will bring in its military deployment in the Sahel region.

Last year, he announced the formal end of the so-called Barkhane military force after France withdrew its troops from Mali. French operations to help fight Islamic extremists in the Sahel region are now focusing mostly on Niger and Chad, where the country still has about 3,000 troops.

Macron in recent years insisted any French presence in Africa should be based on "partnership" in efforts to move away from post-colonial interference.

"Faced with the strategic threats ahead, whether its war in Ukraine, economic shock, pandemic shock, its crucial that Europe and Africa are as aligned as possible and get, lets say, as intimate as possible in their dialogue," the French official said.

Macron, 45, is the first French president born after the colonial era. He has previously sought to extend Frances cooperation with English-speaking countries, like Ghana and Kenya, and increase French investments in Africas private sector.

During this weeks tour, he will notably visit Portuguese-speaking Angola, with the aim to develop links especially in the fields of agriculture and food industry as well as energy, including oil and gas.

Yet Macron's tour this week in central Africa already faces questions.

Some opposition activists in Gabon have denounced his visit, which they perceive as bringing support to President Ali Bongo Ondimba, whose family has ruled since the 1960s, before the presidential election scheduled later this year.

Similar questions have been raised in Congo before a December presidential election.

"Before, during and after this trip, the president of the republic, like all French authorities, will show strict neutrality regarding these elections," the French top official said.

The Elysee stressed that Macron is coming to Gabon mostly to attend a major climate-related summit focusing on the preservation of forests.

He will also seek to show France's attachment to improving economic and cultural relations with two French-speaking countries, neighbouring Republic of Congo and Congo, not only via talks with authorities, but also by establishing links with local populations, entrepreneurs, artists and activists, according to the Elysee.

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Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived early Tuesday in Kazakhstan on a trip aimed at boosting the US role in Central Asia, where giant neighbour Russia's invasion of Ukraine has prompted fears.

Kazakh officials greeted the top US diplomat after midnight in subzero temperatures on the windswept tarmac in the capital Astana, where he will meet President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during the day before flying to Uzbekistan.

In Astana, he will also meet with the foreign ministers of all five former Soviet republics in Central Asia -- which also include Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

The trip is the most senior to Central Asia by an official in US President Joe Biden's administration and comes days after the anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has received billions of dollars in Western support.

Central Asian nations have longstanding security and economic relationships with Russia but, unlike fellow former Soviet republic Belarus, they have not rallied behind Moscow on the war.

All five Central Asian nations abstained or did not vote last week on a UN General Assembly resolution that demanded that Moscow pull out of Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin's justifications for the war, which included deploring the treatment of Russian speakers in Ukraine, have rattled nerves in Central Asian nations with sizable Russian minorities.

Kazakhstan, which has Russia's longest land border, has welcomed Russians fleeing military service and called for a diplomatic resolution to the war that respects international law. Tokayev recently spoke by telephone with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, although he also visited Putin last year to reaffirm ties.

China, which the United States views as its most significant long-term challenger, has also been seeking to expand influence in the adjacent region. President Xi Jinping last year chose Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan for his first foreign trip since the Covid-19 pandemic.

After Central Asia, Blinken will head to New Delhi for a meeting of the Group of 20 foreign ministers. He is expected to avoid Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, whom he has only spoken to by telephone since the war, with the United States believing that Moscow is not sincere about a negotiated solution.

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Turkey said on Monday that NATO accession talks with Sweden and Finland would be held next month, after being postponed in January over a row about protests held in Stockholm.

"The meeting will be held on March 9," Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told a news conference in Ankara, alongside his Hungarian counterpart.

Bids to join NATO must be ratified by all members of the alliance, of which Turkey is a member.

But Ankara was outraged by the protests in January that included the burning of the Koran outside its embassy in Stockholm.

In turn Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Sweden he would not support its bid to join the Western US-led defence alliance.

Erdogan has dug in his heels heading into a close presidential election in which he is trying to energise his nationalist electoral base.

Previous two rounds of the tri-party NATO talks were attended by foreign ministry officials and focused on a specific list of Turkish demands, which include the expulsion of dozens of mostly Kurdish suspects.

Cavusoglu said the third planned meeting would be held in Brussels.

"It's not possible for us to give consent (to a NATO bid) before Sweden fulfils its commitments" under a three-party protocol signed in Madrid in June, he said.

Cavusoglu also made it clear that Turkey looked warmly on Finland's bid.

"We may separate Sweden and Finland's membership process," he said.

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A 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit eastern Turkey on Monday, with initial reports indicating that buildings were destroyed, Turkey's Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) reported.

The earthquake occurred at a depth of seven kilometers in the Malatya province, AFAD added.

"Search and rescue teams were quickly dispatched to the region and started to work," the AFAD added.

The earthquakes comes only weeks after two devastating earthquakes hit southern Turkey on 6 February, leaving tens of thousands of victims across cities on both sides of the Turkey-Syria border.

The most recent quake comes days after Dutch seismologist Frank Hoogerbeets, who gained notoriety for predicting the Turkey quakes, warned of continued seismic activity between 25 and 26 February, "but probably not much" he said in a tweet.

"The first week of March will be critical," the Dutch seismologist revealed.

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Hong Kong: HK, SZ hold task force meeting

Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong held the first meeting of the Task Force for Collaboration on the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy with Shenzhen Vice Mayor Huang Min in Shenzhen today.

Mr Wong and Mr Huang, led delegations of the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Shenzhen respectively.

The Northern Metropolis is a new foothold for Hong Kongs strategic development in the future. The task force was set up by the Hong Kong SAR Government under the co-operation mechanism with Guangdong and Shenzhen.

The task force aims to strengthen liaison and co-ordination between Hong Kong and the Mainland on matters related to the Northern Metropolis, providing new impetus to the Greater Bay Area development.

At the meeting, the Hong Kong SAR Government gave a briefing on the progress in planning and implementing the Northern Metropolis. There was also an introduction on Shenzhens development plans relevant to the mega project.

Both sides exchanged views on various aspects related to the collaboration on the Northern Metropolis, involving cross-boundary transport, control points planning, Qianhai development, works at the Lok Ma Chau Loop and more.

They agreed to strengthen co-operation, making full use of the synergy between the Northern Metropolis and the bay area, especially Shenzhen, in industry development, land use and ecological conservation, as well as the opportunities arising therefrom.

After the meeting, the Hong Kong delegation visited the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, where they received a briefing by the Qianhai Authority of Shenzhen Municipality on the areas latest development.

This story has been published on: 2023-02-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
China's reviving outbound tourism boosts global confidence in travel market

14:55, February 27, 2023 By Yin Jie ( People's Daily

Outbound tourism has been reviving fast in China since the country resumed outbound group travel on Feb. 6.

A Feb. 17 Nok Air flight from Zhengzhou, central China's Henan province, to Thailand, was packed with three Chinese tourist groups.

Seats were booked up in just seconds for the first group tour to New Zealand launched by Chinese travel giant Ctrip after the outbound tourism resumption, which is scheduled to depart from Shanghai on March 18.

Besides, Beijing has been seeing an increasing number of citizens applying for and replacing passports in recent days.

A welcoming ceremony is held at the Don Mueang International Airport, Bangkok by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Chinese Embassy in Thailand to welcome the first tourist group from China on Feb. 6, as China resumes outbound group travel. (Photo courtesy of the Chinese Embassy in Thailand)

Governments and tourism industry of many countries have extended their warm welcome to the Chinese tourists.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association estimated that Thailand would see the arrivals of 500,000 Chinese tourists in the next two months. The association believes that the tourism industry in the Asia-Pacific region will embrace a strong recovery thanks to the comeback of Chinese travelers.

Through Chinese tourists, the world is seeing the vitality and potential of the economy of China and thus gaining confidence in the revival of the global tourism market.

Most of the 20 countries to which China has resumed group travel are friendly to Chinese tourists in terms of visa application, transport, and entry policies.

The Maldives is one of the hottest island destinations among Chinese tourists. According to statistics released by Alibaba Group's travel-services platform Fliggy, the search volume for air tickets to the Maldives on the platform surged nearly tenfold after a mutual visa exemption agreement between China and the Maldives officially took effect recently. The page view of the Maldives on Ctrip also doubled in just half an hour.

China had remained as the largest source of tourist arrivals in the Maldives for years before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maldives Minister of Tourism Abdulla Mausoom said the Maldives earlier forecast 1.8 million tourists for this year, and at least 10 percent increase is expected from the original forecast as Chinese tourists who had contributed a lot to the tourism market of the Maldives, are arriving again.

A man consults a travel agency in Taizhou, east China's Jiangsu province about outbound group tours, Feb. 9, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Tang Dehong)

The improved frequency of international flights also contributed to the revival of China's outbound tourism.

Shang Kejia, an official with the Civil Aviation Administration of China, said at a recent press conference that China has resumed regular passenger flights with 58 countries, adding that the number of international flights is expected to increase further.

Phnom Penh, Bangkok, Sydney, and Kuala Lumpur have become the most popular outbound travel destinations for Chinese tourists.

As more passengers renew their passports, the number of Chinese outbound tourists will hit several other peaks, said Zhao Nan with Umetrip, a popular flight booking app.

The global tourism industry will get a strong boost as China, one of the world's largest outbound tourism markets before the pandemic, resumed outbound group tours starting from Feb 6, industry experts said.

An employee of a travel agency in Maldives that has started receiving Chinese tourist groups told People's Daily that he's happy to see the comeback of Chinese travelers as it is definitely good news for the travel agency and the country as a whole.

Tourists bound for Bali, Indonesia pose for a picture in a terminal of the Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, east China's Zhejiang province, Feb. 8, 2023. (People's Daily Online/Long Wei)

"China's resumption of outbound group travel is crucial to boosting the confidence of the world, especially that of the Asia-Pacific region. China welcomes more countries to share the dividends of its outbound tourism," said Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy.

He noted that Chinese tourists' demand has changed after COVID-19, and the tourists now have a preference for quality while focusing on safety. "It's hoped that destination countries and regions can treat Chinese tourists fairly and offer high-quality tourism products," Dai added.

This change has been noticed by the tourism departments of many countries and they have tailored new measures for Chinese tourists.

Yang Yu, chief representative of Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions in China, said tourism businesses in the Netherlands are constantly improving their services and offering services for Chinese tourists through digital approaches. Mobile payment is now promoted on a wider scale in the country, he added.

South Africa tailored contactless check-in and other digital services for Chinese tourists and rolled out new policies to improve their satisfaction, hoping that Chinese tourists can have safe and relaxing trips in the Rainbow Nation, said Mansoor Mohamed, Hub Head of Asia Pacific for South African Tourism.

It is believed that the list of destinations for China's outbound group travel will get longer and longer in the near future, and the country will contribute more to the development of global tourism.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in Baghdad on Monday to denounce a draft elections law that would increase the size of the countrys electoral districts, potentially undermining independent candidates.

The current legislation, under which the 2021 election was held, breaks up each of the countrys 18 provinces into several electoral districts. The law, which was a key demand of mass anti-government protests that kicked off in late 2019, was seen as giving independent candidates a better chance at winning.

Last week, Parliament debated the draft, which would return Iraq to having one electoral district per governorate. Independent lawmakers who objected to the proposal, walked out of the session, which ended early due to losing its quorum.

The Parliament was set to discuss the proposed law again in its session on Monday, but lawmakers voted to postpone the discussion until Saturday.

The return to a single district per province is backed by the Coordination Framework, a coalition of Iran-backed parties that forms the majority bloc in the current parliament, and which brought Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to power last year.

Mondays protests took place as heavy security forces surrounded the Parliament and closed off Joumhouriya Bridge on the Tigris River that leads to the government areas of the heavily fortified Green Zone.

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The devastating February 6 earthquake and aftershocks that hit southern Turkey have caused damage worth more than $34 billion in the country, the World Bank said on Monday.

The amount is equivalent to four percent of Turkey's GDP in 2021, the Washington-based institution said, adding that the estimate does not account for the costs of reconstruction that were "potentially twice as large," a statement said.

The estimate also does not take into account the damage caused in northern Syria, also particularly affected by the earthquakes, with a World Bank estimate of the costs there to be released on Tuesday.

The World Bank warned that the continuing aftershocks are likely to increase the total amount of damage caused by the disaster.

"This disaster serves as a reminder of Turkey's high risk to earthquakes and of the need to enhance resilience in public and private infrastructure," said Humberto Lopez, the World Bank Country Director for Turkey.

The World Bank also estimates that 1.25 million people have been made temporarily homeless due to damage to residential buildings.

It added that direct damage to residential buildings accounted for 53 percent of the estimate, with 28 percent of damage seen in non-residential buildings and the rest in infrastructure such as roads and bridges.

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Palestinians in the occupied West Bank on Monday counted the cost of deadly violence and arson by Israeli settlers targeting a town where two Israeli brothers were killed.

Dozens of Israeli settlers set homes and cars ablaze in the northern town of Huwara overnight Sunday, after a day of Israeli-Palestinian talks in neighbouring Jordan aimed at quelling a surge of violence in the Palestinian territory.

More than 350 Palestinians were injured, most suffering from tear gas inhalation, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said.

The Palestinian health ministry said Sameh Aqtash, 37, was shot dead during an attack by settlers on the nearby village of Zaatara.

The violence came hours after two Israeli settlers -- brothers Yagel Yaniv, 20, and Hallel Yaniv, 22 -- were shot dead as they drove through Huwara.

On Monday, an AFP photographer saw damaged homes blackened by fire, long lines of charred cars, burned trees and smashed windows in the town.

"They burned the cars and the houses and destroyed everything," Huwara resident Diaa Odeh said.

"Whenever we started to push the settlers back, the army was firing tear gas at us," added the 25-year-old.

Wajeh Odeh, a member of the town's municipality, said 30 houses were burned and damaged, with more than 100 cars torched.

An Israeli occupation army official said 300 to 400 people went to the area for "revenge" and described the violence as "actions of terror", without elaborating.

"(We are) trying to de-escalate and keep the two sides apart in this very, very hard situation that we are in," the official told journalists.

Abdel Moneim Aqtash said he and his brother were standing outside a blacksmith's workshop when Israeli settlers attacked them.

"They left the area and then came back with the occupation (Israeli) army... The army shot my brother, not the settlers," he told AFP.

The military told AFP that Aqtash "was not shot by an Israeli soldier".

'We want security'

Yoav Gallant, defence minister in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's new right-wing coalition government, said he expected "difficult days ahead" and had ordered troops to be reinforced.

"With this being said, I call on everyone to restore calm... We cannot allow a situation in which citizens take the law into their (own) hands," he said.

The search for the gunmen who fired on the two brothers was ongoing, the military official said.

In Burin, close to Huwara, village council head Ibrahim Omran said residents experienced "a real battlefield".

"Even the sheep were not spared from the brutality of the extremist settlers," he told AFP, explaining that two sheep were stabbed to death, while homes, cars and a school room were set ablaze.

The West Bank is home to about 2.9 million Palestinians as well as an estimated 475,000 Jewish settlers, who live in state-approved settlements considered illegal under international law.

Bezalel Smotrich, Israel's finance minister and an extreme-right settler who lives near Nablus, was among hundreds attending the Israelis' funeral in Jerusalem.

"We will continue to build on our land, new neighbourhoods and communities," he said, referring to West Bank settlements.

"We thank our soldiers who fight against our enemies," he added at the funeral.

The coffins were draped in the Israeli flag and cries of mourners drowned out a rabbi reciting prayers, an AFP correspondent said.

'A pogrom'

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's office accused Israel of "protecting terrorist acts perpetrated by settlers" in the West Bank.

Hamas, the militant group which rules Gaza, called on Palestinians "to defend the city of Nablus and repel the settlers' terrorism".

Israeli rights groups BTselem and Peace Now said the Huwara attack amounted to "a pogrom".

Sunday's violence came the same day as talks in Jordan where Israeli and Palestinian officials pledged to work to prevent further violence.

In a statement, both sides reaffirmed "the need to commit to de-escalation on the ground".

Tor Wennesland, the United Nations Middle East peace envoy, said Monday he was "gravely concerned by the deteriorating security situation" in the West Bank, which Israel has occupied since the 1967 Six-Day War.

Since the start of this year, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has claimed the lives of 63 Palestinian adults and children, including militants and civilians.

The violence follows the deadliest year for Palestinians in the West Bank since at least 2005.

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Data from the Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics (CAPMAS) revealed that the value of trade exchange between Egypt and Qatar increased to $80.1 million in the first 11 months of 2022, compared to $45.5 million in 2021, recording an increase of 76.2 percent.

Moreover, the value of Egyptian exports to Qatar amounted to $19.7 million in 2022 compared to $ 3.5 million in 2021, with an increase of 458.3 percent, while the value of Egyptian imports from Qatar amounted to $ 60.4 million, compared to $ 42 million, recording an increase of 44.1 percent.



According to the agency, the most important commodity groups exported by Egypt to Qatar in 2022 included plastic products worth $ 4.9 million, furniture with a value of $ 3.4 million, machinery and electric appliances worth $ 2.8 million, iron and steel products worth $ 2 million, glass and its products worth $ 1.6 million.



On the other hand, the most important commodity groups imported by Egypt from Qatar included iron and steel worth $ 20.5 million, plastics and its products worth $ 20.4 million, chemical products worth $ 5 million, organic chemical products worth $ 4.7 million, machinery and electrical appliances worth $ 3.7 million



The agency also indicated that the value of Qatari investments in Egypt amounted to $ 518.3 million in FY2021/22, compared to $ 507.9 million in FY2020/2021  a decrease of 2 percent.



Meanwhile, the value of remittances from Egyptians working in Qatar increased to $ 1.5 billion, compared to $1.3 billion  an increase of 14.3 percent.



Additionally, the value of Qatari remittances from Egypt amounted to $ 1.8 million, compared to $ 2.8 million  a decrease of 34 percent.

The CAPMAS statement was released as Egypts Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly is currently on a visit to Doha leading a high-level delegation of officials including the ministers of planning, health, finance, and trade and industry.

The delegation also includes the heads of the Suez Canal Economic Authority and the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones.

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Japan and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have announced a new partnership to provide humanitarian assistance to vulnerable children and families in the governorates of North Sinai and Ismailia, with Japan contributing over $833,000 to the project.

The partnership aims to ensure access to essential services such as education, healthcare, nutrition, as well as protection services. Oka Hiroshi, ambassador of Japan to Egypt, stated that "we must work together to minimise the negative impacts of the unprecedented human security crisis caused by COVID-19 and the war on Ukraine, so that all individuals can live with dignity." Hiroshi added that Japan is committed to working with international partners and stakeholders to bring about a more inclusive and resilient society that leaves no one behind.

Jeremy Hopkins, UNICEF representative in Egypt, said that "the contribution from the government of Japan is instrumental in our joint efforts to address the adverse impact of the Ukraine crisis on vulnerable children and communities living in Egypt." Hopkins also expressed concern over the rising food prices that may compromise the food security and nutrition for families and their children.

The intervention will benefit nearly 52,000 people in North Sinai and Ismailia with child protection services, as well as quality health and nutrition interventions through well-trained health workers and equipped primary healthcare units. This includes the enhancement of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in healthcare facilities through better access, improved infection prevention training, and distribution of essential supplies.

UNICEF will also engage communities on the importance of proper nutrition and tackle misinformation, while healthcare workers will be provided with technical support in using digital tools to help in reporting and monitoring. Additionally, UNICEF will be working with the Ministry of Social Solidarity to provide the needed support to children at risk, as well as those who have experienced issues with counselling and case management services.

The one-year intervention builds on Japan's strong partnership with UNICEF established since 2019 to improve the lives of children and families in North Sinai and Ismailia.

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The visit comes as top U.S. officials repeated warnings to China against providing military aid to Russia in its war on Ukraine, saying that would bring heavy consequences.

Belarus has strongly backed Moscow and allowed its territory to be used as a staging ground for the initial invasion of Ukraine a year ago. Lukashenko has been Belarus' only president since the position was created in 1994, and crushed 2020 protests over his disputed reelection in a vote that the opposition and Western countries regard as fraudulent.

Spokesperson Hua Chunying said Lukashenko is due to visit Tuesday through Thursday, but gave no details about his agenda.

Alexander Lukashenko, the president of Belarus and a close ally of the Russian leader, will visit Beijing this week, China's Foreign Ministry said, as U.S. concerns grow that China is considering providing military aid to Russia.

CIA Director William Burns repeated those earlier statements in an interview due to be broadcast on American channel CBS on Sunday, saying, "We're confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment."

However, Burns added, "We also don't see that a final decision has been made yet, and we don't see evidence of actual shipments of lethal equipment." Providing such aid "would be a very risky and unwise bet," he said.

Beijing claims to have a neutral stance in the war that began one year ago, but has also said it has a "no limits friendship" with Russia and has refused to criticize Moscow's invasion or even call it that. It has accused the West of provoking the conflict and "fanning the flames" by providing Ukraine with defensive arms. It has accused the U.S. of smearing it over the military aid allegations and reiterated that it seeks only peace between Russia and Ukraine.

Beijing on Friday issued a proposal calling for a cease-fire and peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautiously welcomed China's involvement -- but said success would depend on actions, not words.

The plan released by China's Foreign Ministry mainly reiterated long-held positions, and analysts said Beijing would be an unlikely broker given its close ties to Russia and unwavering stance over the conflict.

However, some observers warned that Ukraine and its allies need to tread carefully, saying that rejection of what China sees as its peace overture could move Beijing closer toward providing arms to Russia instead.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is believed to be preparing to visit Russia sometime in the coming months.
The European Union agreed Saturday to impose new sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. The restrictions "are directed at military and political decision-makers, companies supporting or working within the Russian military industry, and commanders in the Wagner Group," the EU's presidency said in a statement.

The 10th round of EU sanctions targets about 120 individuals and entities, including those involved in the abduction of Ukrainian children, those who spread disinformation, Iranians involved in sending drones to Russia, and members and supporters of the Wagner Group mercenaries, including its activities in Africa.

The sanctions restrict exports of the electronic components used in Russian weapons, including missiles, drones and helicopters, and bans some rare earth minerals, electronic circuits and thermal cameras, the statement said. The EU sanctions also prohibit transactions with three more Russian banks and lists 96 more entities, including seven from Iran that provide Russia with military drones used in attacks against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy applauded the sanctions and said in his nightly video address that Ukraine is working to extend sanctions to Russia's nuclear sector "and all those involved in the missile program and the nuclear blackmail of the terrorist state." Russia's Commissioner for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova, who is included in the sanctions, said listing her "violates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and all other international legal acts concerning human rights."

Earlier Saturday, in its intelligence update, the British Defense Ministry said Russia has likely depleted its supply of Iranian one-way-attack uncrewed aerial vehicles. The ministry said there have not been any reports of the vehicles being used in Ukraine "since around" Feb. 15, while at least 24 were reported downed between late January and early February. "Scores were destroyed in the first few days of the year," the ministry said.

Ukrainian and Western officials have said that Western sanctions are hampering Russia's ability to replenish its stocks of guided weapons that rely on imported microchips. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, now deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, responding to that report, said Moscow has increased military production "by tens of times" at some factories and was closely studying weapons fired into Russian-held areas from the Ukrainian side in an effort to gain an advantage.

"We are not just expanding production, but also introducing the latest technologies, perfecting them literally 'on the march,'" he said in an article published Saturday in the National Defense magazine. "It was funny to hear the Kyiv fantasists reasoning that 'missiles ran out' in Russia or 'production stopped.'"
Actor Yoo Ah-in has tested positive for the celebrity knockout drug Propofol after a drug test as part of a police probe into his alleged use of the anesthetic that killed Michael Jackson.

According to police last Saturday, the 37-year-old actor tested positive after police sent hair and urine samples to the National Forensic Services early this month.

The hair sample tested positive for Propofol and another unidentified narcotic, and the urine sample for marijuana.

The doe-eyed "Burning" star has been under police investigation since the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in a crackdown last year identified some 50 prominent Propofol abusers.

The ministry told the police that the actor was given some 70 injections of the drug at several clinics in 2021 alone.
The nuclear-powered submarine USS Springfield arrived in Busan port last week to send a warning to North Korea after a flurry of missile launches.

On Saturday, the U.S. Pacific Fleet posted images on Facebook of the Springfield lying at anchor.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 23:03 | All, Japan, World

The foreign ministers of Japan and New Zealand agreed Monday that the two countries will hold disarmament and nonproliferation talks, with fears growing that Russia may use nuclear weapons against Ukraine.

New Zealand's Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta told a joint press appearance after talks with her Japanese counterpart Yoshimasa Hayashi that the envisaged meeting would start from a working level, although she did not elaborate on time frames.

The move came as Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no signs of stopping military attacks on Ukraine. Russia invaded its neighbor on Feb. 24, 2022.

Japan will host a summit of the Group of Seven industrialized nations in May in Hiroshima, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida aiming to issue a message toward a nuclear-free world from the city devastated by a U.S. atomic bomb in August 1945.

On Monday, meanwhile, Hayashi and Mahuta pledged to work together toward a free and open Indo-Pacific, a vision advocated by Japan and its security ally the United States to counter China's military and economic assertiveness in the region.

"As the strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific region has become increasingly challenging, the unity among those countries which share fundamental values is becoming even more important," Hayashi told Mahuta at the meeting, part of which was open to the media.

Mahuta said during the meeting that Moscow's "illegal and unprovoked invasion" is a "serious threat" to the two Asia-Pacific nations' shared interests.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 18:35 | All, World, Japan, Coronavirus, Travel/Tourism

Japan said Monday it will end blanket COVID-19 testing of visitors from China, effective Wednesday, with the rate of those testing positive dropping recently.

Quarantine officials will test travelers from China by random selection at Japanese airports, and such visitors will continue to be required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of departure, Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said at a press conference.

In China, the number of infections with the novel coronavirus exploded after Beijing in December last year began drastically relaxing its stringent "zero-COVID" policy that had involved lockdowns and quarantines.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government, meanwhile, will scrap a rule limiting departures and arrivals of direct flights connecting Japan with China to four major airports -- Narita, Haneda, Kansai and Chubu.

The government will also allow airlines to increase the number of direct flights to and from China, although Japan tightened quarantine measures for arrivals from China in late December.

Currently, all travelers from China, including those who have visited the country within seven days, are asked to take a PCR or high-sensitivity antigen test upon arrival in Japan.

People who test positive must quarantine at a designated facility for up to seven days.

The border control easing would come as the rate of positive COVID-19 tests among travelers from China has stayed below 1 percent since late January, with only a limited range of mutations found, the health ministry said.

After Japan bolstered COVID-19 steps against Chinese nationals, the Communist-led government suspended issuing visas for Japanese citizens in early January before resuming the service later in the month.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 26, 2023 - 22:08 | All, Japan

A group for Japanese abductees' families and its supporting entity said Sunday in a new campaign policy that they would not oppose giving humanitarian aid to North Korea if it would lead to the return of all abductees.

The group, led by Takuya Yokota, brother of Megumi Yokota, who was abducted at age 13 in the 1970s, and the National Association for the Rescue of Japanese Kidnapped by North Korea, kept its long-held policy of seeking the immediate and collective return of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea.

The policy of not opposing humanitarian assistance by the Japanese government to North Korea was also mentioned in their message directed at North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, they said. They have issued statements directed at the North Korean leader twice in the past.

"The Japanese government should be able to carry out humanitarian assistance to North Korea without deviating from the international sanctions framework imposed on North Korea," Takuya Yokota, 54, said at the groups' meeting in Tokyo, attended by 14 members of the abductees' families.

"I hope the government will seek negotiations with the North Korean side and engage in peace-building between the two countries," he said.

Sakie Yokota, the mother of Megumi, told a press conference after the meeting that she wants Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to hold a summit with the North Korean leader soon.

She said she hopes the premier "sends a message to North Korea suggesting that Japan wants to live in peace with North Korea."

"I am hoping that such a day would come as soon as possible," the 87-year-old said.

The campaign policy also read, "There is no resolution to the abductions issue without the families from the generations of the (victims') parents being able to hug the victims."

The groups said their members would visit the United States in May to call on the U.S. administration of President Joe Biden to lend support for the realization of a summit between Japan and North Korea.

Megumi is among 17 Japanese nationals the government officially lists as having been abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s. The government also alleges Pyongyang's involvement in many other disappearances.

Related coverage:

Painful anniversary brings more torment to North Korea abductee's mother

Japan's Abe rejected North Korea proposal on abductee's return

North Korea ex-spy Kim Hyon Hui convinced Japanese abductees are alive
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 19:06 | All, Japan

Toyota Motor Corp. said Monday its global sales for January fell 5.6 percent from a year earlier to 709,870 vehicles, marking the second straight month of decline amid a semiconductor shortage and shorter business days in China.

The global chip shortage continued to hit the world's largest automaker while the Lunar New Year holiday period in China, which fell in January this year, cut operating hours at its dealers, the Japanese firm said.

Overseas sales fell 9.7 percent to 579,652 units as the figure for the Chinese market, also hit by the termination of economic stimulus measures to promote purchases of new cars, plunged 23.5 percent. The North American market saw a 12.8 percent fall due to a decline in inventories.

Domestic sales, including mini-vehicles, rose 18.0 percent to 130,218 units in a rebound from a year before when the negative impact of the coronavirus pandemic was more severe.

The overall easing of a parts shortage, not including semiconductors, helped drive up production, with Toyota's global output increasing 8.8 percent to 689,090 cars thanks to a 30.1 percent jump in domestic production to 211,572 units.

Overseas production increased 1.4 percent to 477,518 vehicles as growth in North America and Europe was partially offset by a decline in China.

Toyota earlier this month lowered its global production target for fiscal 2022, which will end next month, to 9.1 million units from 9.2 million. The automaker said it will continue to face difficulty procuring semiconductors but noted that the revised figure is still a record high.

Toyota said it expects to produce about 750,000 units in February, almost the same level as a year earlier, and about 900,000 vehicles in March, a record high for a single month.

Global output by Japan's eight major car makers, including Toyota, for January, fell 2.9 percent to 1.86 million units as they struggled to secure enough chips to build cars.

Five of the eight companies saw production declines, with output at Honda Motor Co. dropping 21.7 percent to 280,757 vehicles, while Nissan Motor Co. logged a 25.1 percent decline to 224,236 units.

Suzuki Motor Corp. bucked the trend posting a 22.9 percent increase to 295,345 cars, helped by record-high production in India for a single month, as it focused on models using chips that are easy to procure, it said.

Combined global sales for the eight firms fell 9.6 percent to 1.77 million vehicles.

Related coverage:

Toyota eyes EV production in U.S. possibly in 2025: source

Toyota profit falls despite record sales as rising costs bite

Toyota group's global auto sales top in 2022 for 3rd straight year
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 21:15 | World, All

A U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft flew over the waters between mainland China and Taiwan on Monday, drawing condemnation from China, which views the democratically governed island as part of its territory.

The Navy's 7th Fleet said in a statement that the plane "transited the Taiwan Strait in international airspace," adding, "By operating within the Taiwan Strait in accordance with international law, the United States upholds the navigational rights and freedoms of all nations."

"The United States will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows including within the Taiwan Strait," it also said.

The Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army, the Chinese military, criticized the U.S. flyover, saying it "organized troops and tracked and monitored the whole flight, and it has everything under control," according the official China Daily.

Senior Col. Shi Yi, the command's spokesman, was quoted as saying in a statement that the incident "deliberately damaged the regional situation and jeopardized peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits."

Taiwan's Defense Ministry said the P-8A flew through the strait from north to south.

China has intensified military activities around Taiwan since then U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island in August over repeated warnings from Beijing against her doing so.

Chinese warplanes have frequently crossed into the Taiwan side of the median line drawn roughly in the middle of the strait, while also crossing into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in the island's southwest.

While no official agreement on the median line exists between Beijing and Taipei, China had long respected it so as to avoid unintended clashes, making it essentially a "borderline" between the two sides.

Taiwan and the Chinese Communist Party-ruled mainland China have been governed separately since a civil war ended in 1949 with the defeated Nationalists basing their Republic of China government on the island.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 23:45 | All, Japan

Japanese high court approved Monday a posthumous retrial for a man convicted of robbing and murdering a 69-year-old woman in 1984 in western Japan, upholding a lower court's decision.

If the reopening of the trial is finalized and Hiromu Sakahara, who died of illness aged 75 while serving his prison term in 2011, is acquitted, it will be the first major postwar criminal case brought by the family of a convict given a life or a death sentence to be successfully overturned.

In reaching the decision, the Osaka High Court said the case warrants an "acquittal," citing "clear new evidence" presented during the second retrial plea sought by Sakahara's family.

"There is reason to doubt" the finalized ruling that convicted Sakahara, the court said.

The latest development was welcomed by Sakahara's son Koji, 61, who has been working hard to clear his father's name together with his 85-year-old mother.

"We have been able to move a step closer toward an acquittal," he said while expressing hope to see a not-guilty verdict finalized quickly as his mother, who suffered a stroke, has become feeble.

Prosecutors, who have five days to file an appeal, said the high court's judgment was deplorable. "We will examine the decision carefully before deciding how to respond," they said.

In a decision finalized by the Supreme Court in 2000, Hiromu Sakahara was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison on charges of killing Hatsu Ikemoto, a liquor store manager in Hino, Shiga Prefecture, and stealing her cash box.

Sakahara argued in the initial plea for a retrial that his original confession during the investigation was made under coercion, but the Otsu District Court dismissed it in 2006. Sakahara was appealing his sentence at the Osaka High Court when he died in 2011.

His family filed a second retrial petition in 2012 with the district court.

The district court ordered a retrial in 2018 for Sakahara, questioning the credibility of his confession and noting its arbitrariness. Prosecutors immediately appealed the ruling.

The Osaka High Court questioned the Supreme Court's acceptance, as fact, that Sakahara knew precisely where to find the victim's body at the crime scene without being told, as well as the credibility of the photo negatives of Sakahara taken as he described the scene as part of an on-site investigation.

"There is room for doubt as to whether (the investigation) was conducted voluntarily, including the possibility that (Sakahara) may have been led by the investigators," the court said.

The high court additionally took issue with the Supreme Court's determination that Sakahara's alibi of drinking and sleeping at an acquaintance's house on the day of the incident was not true.

The Otsu District Court had said it suspects Sakahara's confession was made under duress after being beaten by police officers, one of whom threatened harm to the family his daughter married into.

The family's defense team had argued it was impossible to murder the woman in the way Sakahara was said to have described, backed by lab results by a forensic doctor that they submitted.
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 12:52 | Sports, All

Reigning women's world champion Kaori Sakamoto won the figure skating Challenge Cup on Sunday when Mai Mihara and Mana Kawabe joined her in the Japanese podium sweep.

Top after Saturday's short program, the Beijing Olympics bronze medalist Sakamoto cruised to the title after also coming first in the free skate with 151.50 for a 228.35 total in the Netherlands.

"I managed to pull things together overall. The score was good too," said the 22-year-old after a morale-boosting win ahead of the worlds in March in Saitama.

"I can add a bit more points (through the grade of execution). Quality will be decisive at the worlds and I hope to take it on showing the best jumps, spins and steps I currently can."

Mihara, also appearing at the upcoming worlds, moved up from third after the short program to finish second on 203.23. Having contracted flu earlier this month, the resulting lack of training held her back as she settled for third in the free skate.

"My condition wasn't really good. It was positive that I could hang in there, not giving up," said the 23-year-old.

Eighteen-year-old Kawabe had the second-best score in the free skate, jumping from ninth to third to finish on 192.46.

Related coverage:

Figure skating: Yuzuru Hanyu performs solo ice show at Tokyo Dome

Figure skating: Sato, Yamamoto finish 1-2 for Japan at Challenge Cup

Figure skating: Japan wins men's, pairs gold at Four Continents
KYODO NEWS - Feb 27, 2023 - 20:33 | All, Japan, World

Japan, the United States, South Korea and Taiwan have held the first meeting of senior officials under a new U.S.-led framework to help ensure a stable supply of semiconductors, Japan's industry ministry said Monday.

Officials from industry organizations in the four economies took part in the virtual conference of the "Chip 4" alliance on Feb. 16 to discuss ways to maintain supply chain resilience in times of natural disasters and other contingencies, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry said, though it did not elaborate.

The initiative is part of a U.S. strategy to build a resilient chip supply chain and reduce Chinese involvement. Governments of the four economies, home to the world's leading chipmakers and suppliers of relevant materials and equipment, joined the meeting as observers, according to the ministry.

Washington has introduced a sweeping set of export controls on certain high-end semiconductors and chip technologies that Beijing could use to enhance its military systems.

Last September, the United States convened a preparatory meeting of the group, according to media reports, after a global chip shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic shined a spotlight on disrupted supplies of chips used in a variety of essential goods from smartphones to missiles.

Concern over a contingency in the Taiwan Strait has also raised fears about what would happen if China attempts to take Taiwan, prompting many countries and regions to review the supply chains of essential goods.
In recent years, the renewable energy industry in Hebei Province has developed rapidly, thanks to technological support from Beijing.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
This photo taken on Feb. 27, 2023 shows the site of an operation against the hideout of Daesh militants in Kabul, Afghanistan. Afghan security forces stormed a hideout of militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) terror group here on Sunday, killing two insurgents and arresting another, chief spokesman of the Taliban-run caretaker administration Zabihullah Mujahid said Monday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

KABUL, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Afghan security forces stormed a hideout of militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) terror group here on Sunday, killing two insurgents and arresting another, chief spokesman of the Taliban-run caretaker administration Zabihullah Mujahid said Monday.

"The security forces of Islamic Emirate launched operations against the hideout of Daesh (IS) militants in Khair Khana area of district 17 of Kabul Sunday evening, and as a result, two Daesh rebels were killed and another arrested," Zabihullah Mujahid said on social media.

Security forces also seized arms and ammunition including two assault rifles during the operations.

On Sunday evening, Kabul residents reported that a series of blasts rocked the Khair Khana locality and its vicinity in Police District 17. 

This photo taken on Feb. 27, 2023 shows the site of an operation against the hideout of Daesh militants in Kabul, Afghanistan. Afghan security forces stormed a hideout of militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) terror group here on Sunday, killing two insurgents and arresting another, chief spokesman of the Taliban-run caretaker administration Zabihullah Mujahid said Monday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Feb. 27, 2023 shows the site of an operation against the hideout of Daesh militants in Kabul, Afghanistan. Afghan security forces stormed a hideout of militants affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) terror group here on Sunday, killing two insurgents and arresting another, chief spokesman of the Taliban-run caretaker administration Zabihullah Mujahid said Monday. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua)
LHASA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- At the "two sessions" in 2013, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inquired about the road conditions in a far-flung county when talking with lawmakers from southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region in a group deliberation.

"Is the road to Medog open now?" Xi asked Padma Chodron, a deputy to the National People's Congress, China's national legislature, from Medog County in Tibet.

Roads mean a lot to Medog, a county mainly inhabited by Monpa and other ethnic minority groups. Located deep in a valley in the Himalayas, Medog is besieged by high hills and primitive forests and remained "the last county without roads in China" until late 2013.

This isolated location, combined with underdeveloped transport, made it incredibly hard to reach the outside world. Locals knew the hardship too well -- they depended on porters and horses as their primary modes of transportation for centuries. Setting off on foot from her village, Padma endured a strenuous journey taking as long as six days via multiple means of transport to get to Beijing for the "two sessions" that year.

Padma was thus deeply touched by Xi's concern. "I told the general secretary that our highway would open by the end of that year, and he nodded delightedly in response," said Padma.

The Medog Highway, the first highway leading to Medog with a total length of 117 km, opened in October 2013. The remote county has since been connected more widely with the outside world, with vehicles and machines flowing in, children being able to go to school by bus, and patients being able to reach hospitals more quickly.

Recalling her interaction with Xi, Padma still felt heartened. "The general secretary listened to us attentively, taking notes and raising questions every now and then," she said, adding that the livelihood of people in Tibet is always on his mind.

Over the past decade, topics related to road transport, a hallmark of people's livelihood, have featured in multiple group deliberations and discussions that Xi took part in during the annual "two sessions."

Today, all the administrative villages in Medog are open to traffic. Data from Tibet's transport department showed that the total length of highways in the region has soared by more than 50,000 km over the past decade, with those in rural areas rising from 53,200 km to more than 90,000 km.

Medog bid farewell to absolute poverty in 2019. Residents of the county now profit from cash crops like loquat fruit and tea plants.

"With paved roads, our farm products have a viable way to reach the market nationwide," said Padma. "Our roads to happiness are becoming wider and wider." 
Palestinians burn tires during a protest against Israeli settlers' attacks at Palestinians and their homes, in the eastern border fence of the Gaza city, on Feb. 26, 2023. Hundreds of Israeli settlers launched violent revenge attacks in the northern occupied West Bank on Sunday night, killing at least one Palestinian, injuring dozens, and burning down homes, shops, cars and farmlands after a Palestinian shooting attack killed two Israelis, Palestinian and Israeli sources said. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

JERUSALEM/RAMALLAH, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of Israeli settlers launched violent revenge attacks in the northern occupied West Bank on Sunday night, killing at least one Palestinian, injuring dozens, and burning down homes, shops, cars and farmlands after a Palestinian shooting attack killed two Israelis, Palestinian and Israeli sources said.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health said in a press statement that Sameh Al-Aqtash, 37, from Nablus city, died after he was shot by Israeli soldiers during clashes with Israeli soldiers and settlers in the village of Zatara, without revealing more details.

The official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported that rampage assaults have taken place also in the northern West Bank towns of Hawara, Burin and Einbus.

The Palestinian eyewitnesses said that Israeli settlers opened live ammunition at the Palestinians and threw Molotov cocktails at Palestinian houses and cars to avenge the killing of the two Israeli settlers.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society in the West Bank said in a statement that more than 100 Palestinians were injured during the clashes with the Israeli soldiers and settlers.

Israeli Radio reported that around 400 settlers demonstrated near Nablus and set fire to 30 Palestinian houses and 25 vehicles, adding that the Israeli army sent more soldiers to the area to restore calm between the two sides.

The Palestinian presidency condemns the Israeli settlers' assaults on the Palestinians, their homes, and their cars in several villages near Nablus.

It added that the Israeli government is held "fully responsible" for the riots.

Video footage on social media showed huge fires and black plumes of smoke emerging from buildings in the area.

The office of the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Israel's military liaison to the Palestinians, said that Israeli soldiers were assisting the Palestinian rescue services to evacuate "dozens" of local Palestinians whose homes were torched by the settlers.

Photos issued by the office showed soldiers evacuating elderly women whose homes were attacked by the settlers.

Israel's state-owned Kan TV news reported that the settlers torched a home while a family was inside, in addition to at least 15 other homes and about 30 vehicles.

The Israeli military said in a statement that large forces -- including the army, the Israeli Fire and Rescue Services, and the Border Police -- were called to the area in order to stop the "violent riots."

The attacks began hours after senior Israeli and Palestinian security officials met in the Jordanian Red Sea resort of Aqaba and agreed to work toward de-escalation of soaring violence in the region.

A Palestinian gunman killed two Israeli brothers, residents of the Jewish settlement of Har Bracha, in a drive-by attack near Hawara, south of Nablus city.

The attack was the latest in months of soaring tensions which saw the killing of at least 61 Palestinians and 13 Israelis. 

Palestinians burn tires during a protest against Israeli settlers' attacks at Palestinians and their homes, in the eastern border fence of the Gaza city, on Feb. 26, 2023. Hundreds of Israeli settlers launched violent revenge attacks in the northern occupied West Bank on Sunday night, killing at least one Palestinian, injuring dozens, and burning down homes, shops, cars and farmlands after a Palestinian shooting attack killed two Israelis, Palestinian and Israeli sources said. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

An Israeli soldier prevents a settler from moving in Hawara town near the West Bank city of Nablus, on Feb. 27, 2023. Hundreds of Israeli settlers launched violent revenge attacks in the northern occupied West Bank on Sunday night, killing at least one Palestinian, injuring dozens, and burning down homes, shops, cars and farmlands after a Palestinian shooting attack killed two Israelis, Palestinian and Israeli sources said. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)

Israeli soldiers talk with Palestinians in Hawara town near the West Bank city of Nablus, on Feb. 27, 2023. Hundreds of Israeli settlers launched violent revenge attacks in the northern occupied West Bank on Sunday night, killing at least one Palestinian, injuring dozens, and burning down homes, shops, cars and farmlands after a Palestinian shooting attack killed two Israelis, Palestinian and Israeli sources said. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)

Israeli soldiers are seen in Hawara town near the West Bank city of Nablus, on Feb. 27, 2023. Hundreds of Israeli settlers launched violent revenge attacks in the northern occupied West Bank on Sunday night, killing at least one Palestinian, injuring dozens, and burning down homes, shops, cars and farmlands after a Palestinian shooting attack killed two Israelis, Palestinian and Israeli sources said. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)
This photo taken on Feb. 14, 2023 shows pharmacist Zhang Haiou (R) helping a customer on medicine consultation at Baita Temple pharmacy in Beijing, capital of China. Zhang Haiou, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), is a licensed pharmacist at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang has been working patiently and meticulously to help customers with medicine consultation and medication instruction since her pharmacist career began over a decade ago.

What's more, Zhang and her colleagues have gone into communities to teach local residents about medication safety and popularizing knowledge on healthy life at grassroots level during the pharmacy's public benefit activities.

In Zhang's view, continuous learning and constant self-enhancement are the key to a qualified licensed pharmacist. Only by attaching great importance to the update of medicine knowledge can a pharmacist solve customers' problems timely and accurately.

Zhang said she will raise suggestions on designated retail pharmacies adding into medical insurance system and inheritance as well as spreading of traditional Chinese medicine culture during the upcoming first session of the 14th NPC. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

This photo taken on Feb. 22, 2023 shows pharmacist Zhang Haiou checking on medicines at Baita Temple pharmacy in Beijing, capital of China. Zhang Haiou, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), is a licensed pharmacist at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang has been working patiently and meticulously to help customers with medicine consultation and medication instruction since her pharmacist career began over a decade ago.

What's more, Zhang and her colleagues have gone into communities to teach local residents about medication safety and popularizing knowledge on healthy life at grassroots level during the pharmacy's public benefit activities.

In Zhang's view, continuous learning and constant self-enhancement are the key to a qualified licensed pharmacist. Only by attaching great importance to the update of medicine knowledge can a pharmacist solve customers' problems timely and accurately.

Zhang said she will raise suggestions on designated retail pharmacies adding into medical insurance system and inheritance as well as spreading of traditional Chinese medicine culture during the upcoming first session of the 14th NPC. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

This photo taken on Feb. 14, 2023 shows pharmacist Zhang Haiou at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing, capital of China. Zhang Haiou, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), is a licensed pharmacist at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang has been working patiently and meticulously to help customers with medicine consultation and medication instruction since her pharmacist career began over a decade ago.

What's more, Zhang and her colleagues have gone into communities to teach local residents about medication safety and popularizing knowledge on healthy life at grassroots level during the pharmacy's public benefit activities.

In Zhang's view, continuous learning and constant self-enhancement are the key to a qualified licensed pharmacist. Only by attaching great importance to the update of medicine knowledge can a pharmacist solve customers' problems timely and accurately.

Zhang said she will raise suggestions on designated retail pharmacies adding into medical insurance system and inheritance as well as spreading of traditional Chinese medicine culture during the upcoming first session of the 14th NPC. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

This photo taken on Feb. 22, 2023 shows pharmacist Zhang Haiou (L) helping a customer on medicine consultation and medication instruction at Baita Temple pharmacy in Beijing, capital of China. Zhang Haiou, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), is a licensed pharmacist at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang has been working patiently and meticulously to help customers with medicine consultation and medication instruction since her pharmacist career began over a decade ago.

What's more, Zhang and her colleagues have gone into communities to teach local residents about medication safety and popularizing knowledge on healthy life at grassroots level during the pharmacy's public benefit activities.

In Zhang's view, continuous learning and constant self-enhancement are the key to a qualified licensed pharmacist. Only by attaching great importance to the update of medicine knowledge can a pharmacist solve customers' problems timely and accurately.

Zhang said she will raise suggestions on designated retail pharmacies adding into medical insurance system and inheritance as well as spreading of traditional Chinese medicine culture during the upcoming first session of the 14th NPC. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

This photo taken on Feb. 22, 2023 shows pharmacist Zhang Haiou (2nd L) sharing medicine knowledge with her colleagues before they start working at Baita Temple pharmacy in Beijing, capital of China. Zhang Haiou, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), is a licensed pharmacist at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang has been working patiently and meticulously to help customers with medicine consultation and medication instruction since her pharmacist career began over a decade ago.

What's more, Zhang and her colleagues have gone into communities to teach local residents about medication safety and popularizing knowledge on healthy life at grassroots level during the pharmacy's public benefit activities.

In Zhang's view, continuous learning and constant self-enhancement are the key to a qualified licensed pharmacist. Only by attaching great importance to the update of medicine knowledge can a pharmacist solve customers' problems timely and accurately.

Zhang said she will raise suggestions on designated retail pharmacies adding into medical insurance system and inheritance as well as spreading of traditional Chinese medicine culture during the upcoming first session of the 14th NPC. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)

This photo taken on Feb. 22, 2023 shows pharmacist Zhang Haiou checking on medicines at Baita Temple pharmacy in Beijing, capital of China. Zhang Haiou, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), is a licensed pharmacist at Baita Temple pharmacy of Beijing Golden Elephant Fortune Pharmacy Stock Co., Ltd. in Beijing. Zhang has been working patiently and meticulously to help customers with medicine consultation and medication instruction since her pharmacist career began over a decade ago.

What's more, Zhang and her colleagues have gone into communities to teach local residents about medication safety and popularizing knowledge on healthy life at grassroots level during the pharmacy's public benefit activities.

In Zhang's view, continuous learning and constant self-enhancement are the key to a qualified licensed pharmacist. Only by attaching great importance to the update of medicine knowledge can a pharmacist solve customers' problems timely and accurately.

Zhang said she will raise suggestions on designated retail pharmacies adding into medical insurance system and inheritance as well as spreading of traditional Chinese medicine culture during the upcoming first session of the 14th NPC. (Xinhua/Ju Huanzong)
BEIJING, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang will address a high-level segment of the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council via video link on Feb. 27, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday.

According to Mao, the 52nd session of the UN Human Rights Council will be held in Geneva from Feb. 27 to April 4, and the high-level segment will be held from Feb. 27 to March 2. 
ADEN, Yemen, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- At least two suspected militants from the Yemen-based al-Qaida branch were killed in a U.S. drone strike in the country's central province of Marib, a military official said on Monday.

An unmanned aircraft from the U.S. military fired a missile late on Sunday night and hit a house in Hosoun Al Jalal area in Marib province, which is currently controlled by the Saudi-backed Yemeni government, the local military official, who asked to remain anonymous, told Xinhua.

"The strike destroyed the house belonging to a local tribal leader and killed two suspected militants of the Yemen-based al-Qaida branch," the source said.

After the attack, members of the al-Qaida terrorist group rushed to the site of the bombing by car to collect the bodies, and then fled into a desert nearby, he added.

Many areas in Abyan province, a long-time hotbed of military clashes where al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and other extremist groups have a strong presence, have recorded a dramatic increase in the number of terrorist attacks against government forces in recent months.

Al-Qaida militants hiding in rocky terrains and mountainous areas of Abyan and other neighboring provinces, such as Shabwa, frequently use hit-and-run tactics against Yemeni government forces.

The AQAP network has exploited years of deadly conflict between the Yemeni government and the Houthi militia to expand its presence in the war-ravaged Arab country. It has carried out many high-profile attacks against the security forces in the country's southern provinces. 
BEIJING, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- China released a paper stating its position on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis on Friday, as the world marked one year since the full escalation of the crisis.

In the paper, China proposes a solution to the crisis that addresses both the symptoms and root causes, affirming that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solution to the Ukraine crisis.

Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, said the position paper by China represents "an important contribution."

Observers believe the peace plan serves the interests of both sides in the conflict and responds to the common concerns of the international community, demonstrating China's commitment to objectivity and fairness as well as its role as a responsible major country in times of grave global challenges.

PEACE FORMULA AT CRITICAL MOMENT

"In the face of war flames, all you need is to pour water, not fuel," Marcos Cordeiro Pires, a professor at Brazil's Sao Paulo State University, told Xinhua.

One year into the Ukraine crisis, the conflict seems nowhere near over. Behind the prolonged, magnified conflict is incessant Western military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia. Now spillovers of the crisis are taking a toll on the world: a cost-of-living squeeze, a massive migrant flow, and more.

In the paper, China urges the resumption of peace talks and the avoidance of further escalation of conflict, and opposes the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons, which is crucial to global security and the sustainable development of humanity, Pires said.

The Ukraine crisis shows that in today's world, it is impossible to win with weapons, much less achieve peace with weapons, said Croatian political analyst Drago Horvat.

Zoltan Kiszelly, director of the Center of Political Analyses at Hungary's Szazadveg Institute, said the position paper by China on the Ukraine crisis is a very important contribution to preventing a new global Cold War era from forming.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said the position paper is an example of China's pursuit of a foreign policy of peace as well as a "new and original measure" that will have far-reaching significance.

Former Croatian Deputy Prime Minister Ante Simonic said that the position paper issued by China is of great significance not only to Russia and Ukraine, but also to the international community.

Ali El-Hefny, secretary general of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, also a former Egyptian ambassador to China, said that the paper reflects a policy and a clear vision on international relations that China has always adopted throughout its history.

Meanwhile, many expressed appreciation for China's constructive role in pushing for a peaceful settlement of the crisis since the very start, believing that the position paper issued by China shows the right path and calls on the international community to pay attention to China's proposal and make joint efforts to promote peace talks.

"The paper is certainly an important contribution," El-Hefny said.

China's position paper is a very good solution to the crisis, Horvat said, hoping that the international community will put China's peace plan on the agenda as soon as possible.

Rabia Akhtar, director of the Center for Security, Strategy and Policy Research at the University of Lahore in Pakistan, said that China, as a responsible permanent member of the UN Security Council, has issued a position paper that prioritizes advocating world peace. Akhtar urged the world to heed China's call and join forces to bring all parties to the conflict to the negotiating table.

IMPARTIAL, OBJECTIVE POSITION

Addressing a high-level Security Council briefing on Ukraine, Dai Bing, charge d'affaires of China's permanent mission to the United Nations, expounded on China's position, saying that China has always taken an objective and impartial stance based on the merits of the issue, and is ready to continue to play a responsible and constructive role in resolving the Ukraine crisis.

China's position paper stated the basic principle that "universally recognized international law, including the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, must be strictly observed. The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be effectively upheld" in dealing with the crisis.

Filipe Porto, a researcher at the Brazilian Foreign Policy Observatory, said the paper reflects China's consistent objective stance in dealing with the Ukraine crisis.

Mohammad Reza Manafi, editor-in-chief for the Asia-Pacific news desk of Iran's official news agency IRNA, agrees, saying China's position paper is comprehensive and complete and fully respects the UN principle of national sovereignty, in particular the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both sides to the conflict.

China has not taken sides in this conflict, but is actively and sincerely seeking a peaceful solution to the crisis, he said.

On Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan released a statement, saying the country welcomes China's position on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, which deserves support as contributing to the cessation of bloodshed on the basis of territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty of states in accordance with the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Sunday, saying that Iran supports China's position and "believes that the elements reflected in this document are sufficient for commencing negotiations on developing a mutually-agreed framework for ending the military activities in Ukraine, stopping unilateral measures and restoring the situation in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter."

The continuation of the conflict is the result of the intensification of long-accumulated contradictions in regional security. China's position paper reiterated that all parties should, following the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security and bearing in mind the long-term peace and stability of the world, help forge a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture. It also noted that all parties should oppose the pursuit of one's own security at the cost of others' security, prevent bloc confrontation, and work together for peace and stability on the Eurasian Continent.

China's position paper is a powerful contribution to the project of building peace in Europe. While not taking sides, the paper highlights the crucial elements required for this terrible crisis to be brought to a conclusion, said British political commentator Carlos Martinez in a written interview with Xinhua.

RESPONSIBILITY OF A MAJOR COUNTRY

The protracted crisis has affected the cause of world peace and development. Though not a party to the crisis, China, as a responsible major country, has not stood idly by but played a responsible and constructive role in easing the situation and defusing the crisis.

China's position paper covers all aspects of the conflict, and not only emphasizes the basic principles of opposing the threat or use of nuclear weapons, and stopping abusing unilateral sanctions and "long-arm jurisdiction" against other countries, but also puts forward specific solutions to the global food crisis and humanitarian crisis, said Pakistani scholar Akhtar.

This comprehensive paper urges all parties to the conflict to rethink their positions and turn to seeking a diplomatic solution, Akhtar noted.

Many observers have noticed China's special status as a non-party to the Ukraine crisis, arguing that the more "pragmatic" and "non-biased" Chinese solution offers a new path that differs from the West.

In Zoltan's view, most regions and countries in the world are not involved in conflicts and remain neutral, and it is very positive progress that China, as a permanent member of the Security Council and an important economy in the world, has proposed a constructive plan with peace as the goal, representing the voice of most regions and countries in the world.

To build a safer world is the strong aspiration of all peoples and the unswerving pursuit of China. On Feb. 21, China released The Global Security Initiative Concept Paper, which, together with the position paper on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, demonstrates China's responsibility to work with the international community to safeguard global security and propose more feasible measures to solve the current security dilemma.

The two documents are practical initiatives and ideas put forward by China to safeguard world peace and security, helping to inject more stability into the international community plagued by various disputes, and therefore widely supported by peace-loving people worldwide, said Kwon Ki-sik, head of the Korea-China City Friendship Association.

British expert Martinez said both papers reflect a profound desire for peace and global prosperity, and demonstrate a clear understanding that peace and prosperity require a reorientation of international relations towards multilateralism, cooperation, non-interference, respect for sovereignty and respect for diversity.

In the face of emerging global challenges, the international community is more aware that human beings live in the same global village and belong to a community with a shared future.

Porto believes that the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, as well as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the position on the political settlement of the conflict in Ukraine, which are concrete manifestations of this vision, are major contributions of China's diplomacy to the world.

They offer Chinese solutions to global issues, telling people that security must be guaranteed through development, and development must also be guaranteed through security, rather than through war or hegemony. 
BEIJING, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday slammed the United States for sanctioning Chinese companies for alleged involvement with Russia, saying the illegal, unilateral sanctions, if not revoked, would be met with countermeasures from China.

Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, told a press briefing that the U.S. actions lack both the basis in international law and UN Security Council mandate.

"They are typical unilateral sanctions and illegal 'long-arm jurisdiction' and detrimental to Chinese interests. We deplore and reject this move and have made serious demarches to the U.S. side," Mao said.

She said on the Ukraine issue, China's position has been objective and fair.

"We have actively promoted peace talks and sought a political solution. The U.S., however, has been fanning the flame and fueling the fight with more weaponry," she said.

To date, the United States has provided Ukraine with over 32 billion U.S. dollars worth of military aid, including large quantities of advanced armament. Just days ago, it announced yet another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth 2 billion U.S. dollars, according to the spokesperson.

Mao said the United States has been pouring weapons into one side of the conflict, thus prolonging the fight and making peace elusive, while spreading disinformation that China would supply weapons to Russia and sanctioning Chinese companies under that pretext.

"This is out-and-out hegemonism and double standard, and absolute hypocrisy," Mao said.

"On the one-year mark of the full escalation of the Ukraine crisis, China issued its position paper on the political settlement of the crisis, whereas the U.S. imposed sanctions on Chinese and other foreign companies. Who is promoting peace and deescalation, and who is fueling the tension and making the world more unstable? The answer is fairly obvious," the spokesperson said.

She called on the United States to reflect on its behavior, bear in mind what is good for the world, and do something that will actually help deescalate the situation and get peace talks going.

"The U.S. also needs to stop spreading disinformation and withdraw the sanctions on Chinese companies," she said.

"The Chinese side will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. We will take resolute countermeasures in response to the U.S. sanctions," Mao said. 
A cat owner holds his cat at a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

DHAKA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Cat lovers gather in Bangladesh where a fashionable and gorgeous pet show is on display. Scores of cats stun the stage donning trendy attire and ornaments such as sunglasses and bows, and some wear bright princess dresses, looking lovely and adorable.

The cat show, which is organized by the Bangladesh Pet Federation, aims to help more cute-looking cats come to the fore and raise awareness to help people know more about the ways to protect this adorable animal species.

A cat owner poses for photos with her cat during a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

A cat owner feeds her cat during a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

A cat owner poses for photos with her cat during a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

A cat owner holds his cat during a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

A cat owner poses for photos with her cat during a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

A girl poses for photos with her cat during a cat ramp show in Dhaka, Bangladesh on Feb. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)
Damaged cars are seen after violent revenge attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in Hawara town near the West Bank city of Nablus, Feb. 27, 2023.

The Israeli army previously said that a Palestinian in a passing vehicle shot two Israelis near the Hawara checkpoint, south of the West Bank city of Nablus.

The shooting sparked violent revenge attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, causing at least one death and numerous injuries, with fire-damaged properties and vehicles. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)

RAMALLAH, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Two Israeli settlers and one Palestinian were killed on Sunday in the West Bank as senior Israeli and Palestinian security officials met in Aqaba, Jordan, to soothe tensions ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

The Israeli army previously said that a Palestinian in a passing vehicle shot two Israelis near the Hawara checkpoint, south of the West Bank city of Nablus.

The two individuals in their 20s sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were taken to a hospital, where they were later pronounced dead, said Magen David Adom, Israel's Red Cross Organization.

The shooting sparked violent revenge attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, causing at least one death and numerous injuries, with fire-damaged properties and vehicles.

Following the rare meeting in Aqaba, which were also attended by officials from Egypt, the United States and Jordan, the Israeli and Palestinian delegations said in a joint statement that they agreed on de-escalation and reiterated their commitment to previous agreements, working towards a just and lasting peace.

Israel and the Palestinian Authority "confirmed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of 3-6 months. This includes an Israeli commitment to stop discussion of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorization of any outposts for six months," the statement said.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would continue settlement building along previous plans and there will not be any changes.

The statement also sparked mixed reactions among Palestinian factions.

The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) denounced the participation of the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, considering it as "a departure from the Palestinian national consensus."

The meeting was held as anxiety mounts over escalating tensions between Israelis and Palestinians since early January in the West Bank.

The five parties agreed to convene again in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, in March. 

A man inspects a damaged vehicle after violent revenge attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in Hawara town near the West Bank city of Nablus, Feb. 27, 2023.

The Israeli army previously said that a Palestinian in a passing vehicle shot two Israelis near the Hawara checkpoint, south of the West Bank city of Nablus.

The shooting sparked violent revenge attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians, causing at least one death and numerous injuries, with fire-damaged properties and vehicles. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)
BEIJING, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- China looks forward to working with Belarus and taking President Alexander Lukashenko's visit as an opportunity to pursue further progress in the all-round cooperation between the two countries, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Monday.

Mao made the comment at a regular news briefing when asked about China's expectations for Lukashenko's state visit to China from Feb. 28 to March 2.

China and Belarus are all-weather comprehensive strategic partners. Since establishing diplomatic ties 31 years ago, the two countries have enjoyed stronger political mutual trust, deepening mutually-beneficial cooperation across the board, and ever-closer coordination on international and regional affairs, Mao said.

In September 2022, the two heads of state met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Samarkand, during which they drew a new blueprint for the development of China-Belarus relations, Mao added. 
A Yemeni health worker holds the hand of a malnourished child at a hospital in Sanaa, Yemen, Feb. 27, 2023. (Photo by Mohammed Mohammed/Xinhua)

SANAA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The World Health Organization (WHO) has appealed for 392 million U.S. dollars in donation to provide essential health support to 12.9 million Yemenis in 2023.

"Yemen requires urgent and robust support from international donors and other partners to effectively avert the potential collapse of its health system," a WHO statement quoted Adham Abdel Moneim Ismail, WHO Representative in Yemen, as saying on Sunday.

The appeal was made on the eve of a high-level pledging event for the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, a UN-led fund-raising activity held on Monday in Geneva, Switzerland.

"New funding in the amount of 392 million U.S. dollars is required by Yemen's health sector to ensure that overstretched health facilities can continue providing even the most basic services to 12.9 million vulnerable people," the WHO representative said, adding that the current funds pledged to the WHO-led Health Cluster equals only 3.5 percent of the required amount.

According to the statement, 10 million Yemenis, including 7.9 million children, have no access to health services. Around 1.1 million children in Yemen suffer from acute malnutrition and 2.9 million women of reproductive age lack maternal services.

Yemen has been mired in a civil war since late 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern provinces and forced the Saudi-backed Yemeni government out of the capital Sanaa.

The war has killed tens of thousands of people, displaced 4 million and pushed the country to the brink of starvation. 
TEHRAN, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Iran said on Monday that the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will visit Tehran "in the coming days."

President of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Eslami officially invited IAEA chief Rafael Grossi to visit Iran, Iran's official news agency IRNA quoted AEOI spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi as saying.

Over the past few days, the AEOI had held "constructive and promising" talks with an IAEA delegation headed by its Deputy Director General and head of the Department of Safeguards Massimo Aparo and negotiated Grossi's visit to Iran, according to Kamalvandi.

Kamalvandi said he hoped that the upcoming visit by the chief of the international nuclear watchdog would prepare the ground for further cooperation between Iran and the IAEA and a brighter future for their relations.

Over the past few months, the IAEA has criticized Iran for its lack of cooperation with the agency. On Nov. 17, 2022, the IAEA's Board of Governors passed a resolution proposed by the United States, Britain, France, and Germany that called on Iran to collaborate with the agency's investigators regarding the alleged "traces of uranium" at a number of its "undeclared" sites. Iran has repeatedly rejected such allegations.

On Feb. 19, Bloomberg cited two senior diplomats as claiming that IAEA inspectors in Iran had detected uranium enriched to levels "just below that needed for a nuclear weapon." On the same day, Kamalvandi was quoted by IRNA as saying that the Bloomberg report was a "distortion of the facts" and part of a smear campaign. 
SOFIA, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- One migrant died and 32 were injured when a van crashed in Bulgaria on Sunday before dawn, the country's prosecutor's office said in a statement.

According to the statement, the vehicle that carried 45 men from Afghanistan, hit a roadside guardrail on the Trakia motorway about 180 km east of Sofia.

The driver, also a foreign national, had escaped, the statement said.

As many as 18 migrants were found dead in a truck near Sofia on Feb. 17. 
AMMAN/JERUSALEM, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Israel's far-right government denied on Sunday most of the agreements that had been achieved in a meeting of senior Israeli and Palestinian security officials in Jordan.

The meeting was called by Jordan in a bid to soothe tensions ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

According to a statement released by the Jordanian Foreign Ministry after the meeting held in Aqaba, the Israeli and Palestinian representatives had agreed to de-escalation.

After "comprehensive and frank" discussions, which were also attended by officials from Egypt, the United States and Jordan, the Israeli and Palestinian officials stressed their commitment to all previous agreements between them, and to work towards a just and lasting peace.

They also underlined the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground and to prevent further violence and stressed their joint readiness and commitment to immediately work to end unilateral measures for a period of three to six months.

The commitments include one by Israel to cease discussion of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorization of any outposts for six months.

Israel and the Palestinians agreed to uphold the status quo at the al-Aqsa Mosque compound, a flashpoint site in East Jerusalem that is holy to both Muslims and Jews, the statement said.

They have also agreed to pursue confidence-building measures and strengthen mutual trust in order to address outstanding issues through direct dialogue.

The officials from the five countries agreed to convene again in Sharm El Sheikh in March to achieve the goals listed above.

In the statement, Jordan, Egypt, and the U.S. said the understandings reached during the Aqaba meeting represent major progress towards re-establishing and deepening relations between the two sides.

They also stressed the significance of the Aqaba meeting which is believed to be the first such meeting between the two sides in years, and agreed to continue the talks under this formula, maintain the positive momentum and expand this agreement towards a wider political process leading to a just and lasting peace.

However, shortly after the meeting, Israel's government denied most of the agreements.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who re-took power last December as the leader of a far-right coalition government, wrote on Twitter that the approval and construction of new housing units in the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank "will continue according to the original planning and construction schedule, without any changes."

The country's national security advisor Tzachi Hanegbi said in a separate statement that "in the coming months," Israel will legalize nine Israeli outposts and approve some 9,500 new housing units in the settlements.

"There is no limitation on the activity of the Israel Defense Forces," he added.

Several cabinet ministers also denied the agreement. Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a hardline and pro-settler politician, said the meeting was "useless" and vowed that the construction in the settlements will not be halted "even not for one day."

The meeting was held hours after a Palestinian gunman killed two Israelis in a drive-by attack in the occupied West Bank. The attack was the latest in months of soaring tensions which saw the killing of at least 60 Palestinians and 13 Israelis. 
Senegal, Africa's westernmost country, is counting on ecotourism and its biodiversity jewels to attract foreign visitors to help develop its economic potential in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Maasai people weave hair for a customer in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Feb. 25, 2023. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

DAR ES SALAAM, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- For Ray Lipasho Kimeshwa, a Maasai man who hails from the Kiteto district in Tanzania's northern region of Manyara, climate change has left an indelible mark on his life.

Kimeshwa, 39, was the proud owner of 100 cattle in the 1990s through the early 2000s when drought caused by climate change started to kill some of his animals.

"This dreadful animal called climate change forced me to migrate to the port city of Dar es Salaam to engage in the business of hairdressing in 2001," Kimeshwa, the chairperson of a community of about 80 Maasais at Ilala-Amana in Dar es Salaam, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Kimeshwa, who was busy organizing a group of young Maasai hairdressers at their hairdressing salon called Skuvi-Msusi Express at Ilala-Boma, said he is one of the casualties of climate change after the prolonged dry spells in his Kiteto home village killed 16 of his cattle for lack of water and pasture.

"In fact, drought has forced tens of hundreds of Maasais to migrate to urban centers to do businesses like hairdressing, guarding houses and other property using traditional weapons such as clubs and machetes, and selling Maasai traditional artifacts, including leather beaded necklaces, beaded sandals, and ethnic jewelry," said Kimeshwa, who has three wives with seven children.

According to him, his three wives and seven children are in Kiteto keeping their livestock and doing other house chores.

The Maasai are a Nilotic ethnic group inhabiting northern Tanzania and central and southern Kenya. They are among the best-known local populations internationally due to their residence near the many game parks of the African Great Lakes and their distinctive customs and dress.

"Our hairdressing takes one hour to three hours depending on a style that our customer wants," said Kimeshwa, adding that prices for hairdressing range from 8,000 Tanzanian shillings (about 3.4 U.S. dollars) to 70,000 Tanzanian shillings (about 30 U.S. dollars) per person.

He said the money they were getting from hairdressing was helping to look after their families back home.

Kimeshwa said their customers are women from all walks of life, including foreign tourists. "Some of the tourists take us to Zanzibar on fully paid trips to do the hairdressing there after they have been impressed by our styles," said the Maasai man, wearing a broad smile.

Kimeshwa spoke to Xinhua as he was arranging the hair for Mwanahamisi Shaaban, a businesswoman. He teamed up with two other Maasais who identified themselves as Peter Mbayo, 26, from Simanjiro in the Manyara region, and Michael Kilanga, 25, from Longido in the Arusha region.

Like Kimeshwa, Mbayo said he had 40 cattle but 10 were killed by drought, and Kilanga said he had 30 cattle and lost more than 10 of the animals to drought. They both arrived in Dar es Salaam in 2016 to do the hairdressing business.

Mwanahamisi described the Maasai hairdressers as very humble and kind.

"During the hairdressing, the Maasai tell us stories about their tradition, including their pastoral lives. They also tell us about how they kill wild animals that attack their livestock," said Mwanahamisi, who believed their hairdressing styles are very impressive.

In February 2022, the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries Mashimba Ndaki said 306,358 animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, and donkeys had been killed by drought in Tanzania between September 2021 and January 2022 for lack of water and pasture.

The animals were killed in Manyara and Arusha where Kimeshwa and his colleagues came from, Kilimanjaro, Morogoro, Tanga and Coast, the six regions that were most hit by the long dry spells caused by erratic seasonal rains, according to Ndaki.

Ndaki said the government has taken several measures to save the animals, including digging dams and boreholes in selected areas to provide water to the animals. 

Maasai people weave hair for a customer in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Feb. 25, 2023. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)
GENEVA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- United Nations (UN) human rights chief Volker Turk on Monday deplored the weaponization of human rights in the context of geopolitical shifts.

Turk, who took office as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights last October, was speaking at the opening of the 52nd regular session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

He called for a "new world-wide consensus on human rights", arguing that it is a question of survival that nations and communities should arrive at a common understanding.

"Our institutions -- which exist to advance all civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, on an equal footing, as well as the right to development and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment -- are in a unique position to rebuild this shared respect for each other's dignity," he said.

He urged all the UN member states to overcome their differences through solidarity and genuine dialogue, working across geopolitical divides with a clear vision to advance the needs of every country and the rights of all.

"We can rise above the fray, and use human rights, not as a weapon in the context of geopolitical shifts -- not as a nice-to-have for sunny days in the future -- but as what it is and was always meant to be: a solution to help us get out of the harms that are destroying our world," he said.

The event, which will last for five and a half weeks, kicked off with a minute's silence in honor of the victims of the recent earthquake in Turkiye and Syria.

During the first four days, 146 dignitaries will deliver their interventions, with most of them due to appear in person.

Vaclav Balek, president of the UN Human Rights Council, appealed to all participants to engage in open and frank discussions, enabled by a constructive and cooperative atmosphere.

"All delegations and participants should commit to these principles," he said.

Csaba Korosi, currently serving as President of the 77th UN General Assembly, said at Monday's session that the UN Human Rights Council, like the General Assembly, is "at a crossroads."

"Will it go about business as usual, compounding the crisis of trust in multilateralism? Or will it translate the political consensus on the need to cooperate into transformative solutions?" he asked.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that in July, together with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, he will launch a new Agenda for Protection, which will seek to strengthen support to member states to protect people and their rights, both in times of peace and in times of crisis and conflict.

"Human rights are not a luxury that can be left until we find a solution to the world's other problems. They are the solution to many of the world's other problems," he said. 
JERUSALEM, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- An Israeli-American man was shot dead by Palestinian gunmen in a drive-by shooting attack in the occupied West Bank on Monday, amid spiraling violence between Israel and the Palestinians.

The Israeli military said in a statement that the assailants opened fire at an Israeli car near the Palestinian city of Jericho in the southern West Bank and hit the driver.

Israel's Magen David Adom rescue service said in a statement that the 27-year-old driver sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was rushed to a hospital with cardiopulmonary resuscitation in progress. He later succumbed to fatal injuries.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides confirmed in a tweet that the victim was a U.S. citizen.

The perpetrators fled the scene. "Soldiers are conducting searches and setting up roadblocks and checkpoints in the area," the Israeli army said in a statement.

The incident took place a day after hundreds of Jewish settlers embarked on the worst spree of violence over the past years. The Palestinian news agency of WAFA reported that the settlers torched at least 40 homes, vandalized dozens of shops and cars, and killed sheep in the town of Hawara and three other towns in the area of Nablus city.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said Sunday that a 37-year-old Palestinian man was killed by a gunshot, apparently fired by an Israeli soldier, and numerous others were injured.

The rampant attacks came hours after a Palestinian opened fire from a passing car at Israelis near Hawara, killing two brothers.

In a statement on Monday, the Israeli army said it was beefing up its forces in the West Bank with four battalions, amid prospects of further escalation of violence. 
UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The UN mission in Mali condemned and vowed to investigate a recent raid where terrorists killed at least 12 civilians, a UN spokesman said on Monday.

The UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, known as MINUSMA, condemned the attack by an armed terrorist group in the village of Kani-Bonzon, in the Bandiagara region, said Stephane Dujarric, the chief spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The raiders killed the villagers, wounded three others and torched several buildings.

Dujarric said that the special representative of the secretary-general and head of MINUSMA, El-Ghassim Wane, met with authorities and has taken the necessary steps to investigate the attack, in line with the mission's mandate to promote and protect human rights.

The spokesman said the meetings bolstered cooperation and reaffirmed the mission's efforts to help stabilize the country.

Landlocked Mali, one of the poorest countries in the world, suffered jihadist raids and political turmoil in recent years. 
RAMALLAH, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Contrary to what politicians wish, the Aqaba summit will not contribute to de-escalating the Palestinian-Israeli tensions in the West Bank in the near term, Palestinian political experts said.

On Sunday, senior Israeli and Palestinian security officials as well as those of Jordan, Eygpt, and the United States met in Aqaba, Jordan, to soothe the latest round of Palestinian-Israeli conflict that has left at least 61 Palestinian and 13 Israeli deaths since January.

The talks concluded with the two conflicting sides confirming their commitment to all previous agreements between them and to work towards a just and lasting peace, as well as the necessity of committing to de-escalation on the ground.

The Israeli government also agreed to stop "the discussion" of any new settlement units for four months and to stop authorization of any outposts for six months, according to the joint communique issued by the five governments on Sunday.

However, Palestinian experts said the meeting is unlikely to bring immediate de-escalation, since the agreement is non-binding, and the structural oppression against Palestinians in Gaza and the West Banks is deeply entrenched.

"Israel seeks to gain an achievement of a political calm in the Palestinian territories without abiding by suspending any of its raids in the West Bank and ongoing aggression," Ahmed Rafiq Awad, a Ramallah-based political analyst, told Xinhua.

"Israel's goal in the meeting is to portray the reality as a case of defending its security," said Abdul Majid Sowailem, a Ramallah-based political analyst.

"And the U.S. goal is to frame the situation as Israeli was exaggerating the security threat," said Sowailem, who is also a writer for the al-Ayyam newspaper.

"Neither Israel nor the United States is interested in restoring the calm in the Palestinian territories. The only aim at keeping Benjamin Netanyahu on the top of the Israeli government," he said.

Following the talks in Aqaba, the Palestinian Authority said in a press statement published by the Wafa news agency that "the talks are aimed to halt the violence."

But hardliner Palestinian factions in Gaza, such as Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, would not buy the PA's rhetorics, said Abu Sowailem, adding they would not give up resorting to armed attacks in retaliation, as long as Israeli settlers and army continue their violations in the West Bank.

There are no sound international mechanisms to guarantee the implementation of what was agreed upon or to pressure Israel not to ramp up military raids and settlement expansion in the region, according to Ismat Mansour, a Ramallah-based political analyst.

"The main reason that tension on the ground was addressed seriously and quickly in the meeting is that Israeli raids and oppression are ongoing," he said, adding these include the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque, and abusing Palestinian prisoners in Israel.

Instead, he said, the U.S. administration "exerted pressure on the Palestinian side, and it did not try to put security and political commitments on Israel, and stuck to loose formulas regarding stopping settlements (expansion) and raids in the West Bank."

He added that the U.S. side failed to propose any political project to solve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, leaving the situation spiraling out of control. 
The United Kingdom and the European Union on Monday reached a new post-Brexit trade arrangement for Northern Ireland after long disputes between the two sides over the Northern Ireland Protocol.

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"I have the warmest, kindest memories from my first visit to China, from my first impressions of the country, and from my cooperation with the leaders of the People's Republic of China," Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko told Xinhua in an exclusive interview ahead of his visit to China.



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KIEV, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United States has provided about 50 billion U.S. dollars in aid to Ukraine since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported Monday, citing visiting U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.

"In the field of security, economy, humanitarian and social support, we have already provided about 50 billion dollars in assistance," Yellen said after her meeting with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

In particular, the United States has provided 14 billion dollars to support the economic resilience of Ukraine, Yellen said, noting that it plans to allocate another 8 billion dollars for the same needs in the near future.

For his part, Shmyhal said that in 2022, the United States was the top contributor of funds to the Ukrainian economy among foreign countries.

According to estimates of the Ukrainian government, the country would need 38 billion dollars in financing, including from external sources, to cover its budget deficit this year. 
ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) has urged African countries to prioritize green mineral value chains for sustainable industrialization.

The call was made by Acting Executive Secretary of the UNECA Antonio Pedro during a panel discussion on "Building a regional battery mineral value chain in Africa" that was held Sunday.

Pedro emphasized that in order to meet the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, the Sustainable Development Goals and Africa's Agenda 2063, the world must decarbonize its growth models and shift to renewable energy sources. He said the shift to renewable energy sources is a resource-intensive path that requires greater production of a variety of minerals that are central to decarbonization.

According to figures from the UNECA, the African continent is home to many minerals, in which the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), for instance, produces more than 70 percent of the world's cobalt. DRC and Zambia together supply 10 percent of global copper while Mozambique and South Africa hold significant reserves of graphite, platinum metals, lithium and more.

"We have clear opportunities not only from the global green mineral boom but also from our domestic achievements, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area to facilitate the development of regional value chains for these green economy products," a UNECA statement issued from Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, quoted Pedro as saying.

Pedro noted several innovative financing mechanisms that have been developed to support initiatives such as the battery and electric vehicles value chains.

"In the last two decades we have seen that without the right enabling policies and incentives, commodity super-cycles come and go, leaving our countries dependent on resource extraction," said Pedro.

He deplored the fact that about 70 percent of the region's exports are unprocessed commodities, a situation that can change with the right policies that prioritize industrialization and value-addition in mining and other resource sectors.

The session, which was held in a hybrid format, was jointly organized by the UNECA and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) ahead of the 9th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD), slated to be held in Niamey, Niger, from Feb. 28 to March 2.

Oluranti Doherty, director of Export Development at the Afreximbank, noted that it was disappointing that despite Africa being endowed with an array of minerals from copper, magnesium, nickel and cobalt, the continent has not been able to make an energy transition.

"We are working on a framework agreement for special economic zones for the production of batteries, electric vehicles and accessories, and we will facilitate the commencement of studies to facilitate the development of this facility," Doherty said. 
KIGALI, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda's population grew by 2.7 million in the last 10 years from 10.5 million in 2012 to over 13.2 million in 2022, according to results from last year's population and housing census presented Monday at a national forum in the country's capital Kigali.

Women make up 51.5 percent of the total population, higher than men at 48.5 percent, with an average household size of four children, the figures showed.

Eastern Rwanda accounts for the highest population of 3.5 million, followed by southern Rwanda with 3 million, while Kigali has 1.7 million residents.

"Rwandans are living longer and healthier. Life expectancy increased to 69.6 years in 2022 from 64.5 ten years ago, attributed to better health sector, nutrition and increased access to social amenities such as shelter and water," said Yusuf Murangwa, the director general of National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda while presenting the figures at a two-day national forum known as National Dialogue Council.

"These results reflect the country's progress and the efforts put in health to reduce infant mortality rate," Rwandan Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Uzziel Ndagijimana said.

The population of youth, meanwhile, dropped from 70.3 percent in 2012 to 65.3 percent in 2022, according to the figures.

It also showed that 69 percent of Rwandan households are engaged in agriculture activities with only 27.9 percent of the population living in urban areas.

The forum, presided over by Rwandan President Paul Kagame, was attended by more than 1,500 people. 
MAPUTO, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- About 720,000 people aged one year and older in eight districts of Mozambique will be vaccinated against cholera from Monday to Friday, as part of the health authorities' efforts to control the outbreak, in which 5,260 cases and 37 deaths have been recorded since September 2022.

"The vaccination campaign will be crucial in stemming the spread of cholera and help save lives," said Severin von Xylander, World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Mozambique, in a statement released Monday.

The vaccine will be specifically administered in the districts of Lago, Lichinga, Mandimba, Mecanhelas and Sanga, in Niassa province; Milange, in Zambezia; Caia, in Sofala; and Xai-Xai, in Gaza.

People will receive the vaccination in health centers, through mobile teams, or by door-to-door visits.

Mozambique received around 720,000 doses of the oral cholera vaccine from the WHO.

"We are also working with the health authorities to bolster key outbreak response measures and have deployed staff in the three most affected provinces to support the provincial health authorities to detect, prevent and halt this cholera outbreak," said the WHO official.

Parallel to the immunization of the population, surveillance of diarrhea is taking place in all districts for the early detection of outbreaks and the implementation of control measures, read the statement.

According to the statement, the WHO disbursed 856,000 U.S. dollars to support the response to the cholera outbreak in Mozambique, in addition to medical supplies and medicines. The country is ready in terms of human resources and medicines for the clinical and diagnostic approach to cases of waterborne diseases, especially as it is the rainy season. 
DHAKA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The northern Rangpur region of Bangladesh is known for traditional handcrafted Shatranji, a popular carpet-like decor artifact, the unique weaving techniques of which have been passed on from generation to generation.

The decorative artifact has recently been declared as a Geographical Indication Product of Bangladesh. Currently, the artistic pieces, considered as a symbol of aristocracy, are one of Bangladeshi's most popular exported handicraft products.

Md Manjurul Haque owns a Shatranji factory with 20 workers and their products have been sold in different parts of Bangladesh.

He told Xinhua recently that his father-in-law has been involved in the making of Shatranji in the Rangpur region since 1972.

"I later started this Shatranji factory in 2015 with the support of my father-in-law," Haque said.

"The popularity of the artifacts ensures my factory continues production and my workers keep earning," said Haque.

After all expenses are factored in, including workers' wages and import costs of raw materials, his net profit is healthy and business is good, said Haque.

The raw materials for Haque's business come from China.

"We bring raw materials from China and use them as per the design to make our artifacts. The quality of the raw materials ensures the Shatranji's popularity," he said.

Haque said Chinese raw materials are unmatched for making first-class Shatranji products.

"Our Shatranji products have gained a positive reputation abroad. We could do better, however, if we were provided with government support," he mentioned.

Saiful Islam is a non-resident Bangladeshi. He is currently living in Japan.

"I've come to visit the Rangpur Shatranji village," said Islam, adding that the Shatranji of Rangpur is a great heritage of Bangladesh.

"My friends in Japan or those who are close to me elsewhere in the world are particularly interested to know about these Shatranji products. So I'm here today to see and purchase them."

"The Shatranji is our tradition, the tradition of Bangladesh and the Rangpur tradition, and I will introduce this tradition to everyone including my friends, said Islam, who plans to take the Shatranji products back to Japan as souvenirs.

Meghla Rani is a female Shatranji worker from Ponkhy Phanda village under Rangpur district's Hazir Hat. She has been making Shatranji for almost 10 years.

"We're receiving many opportunities and benefits from this work," she said. "So, we're content working here."

"Before making Shatranji, I was so poor. My husband works in a different industry and I work here. Our family life has progressed and we can repay our loans," Rani said, adding that they can afford their children's education.

Another worker Polly Rani also changed her fate by making traditional handicraft items.

She has been working at a Shatranji factory for about 10 years.

"When we get an order, we design by hand and sometimes we design by looking at the catalog," said Rani.

The quality of the finished artifact is down to the unmatched quality of the Chinese raw materials, according to her. 
KATHMANDU, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist) on Monday pulled out of the coalition government led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal, chairman of the CPN (Maoist Center).

Eight ministers from the CPN-UML, including Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel and Foreign Minister Bimala Rai Paudyal submitted their resignations as per the party's decision.

The differences between the CPN-UML and the CPN (Maoist Center) escalated after the latter decided to support the Nepali Congress in the presidential election slated for March 9.

Dahal became the prime minister on Dec. 25 last year with the support of 169 members of the House of Representatives, including 78 from the CPN-UML and other parties.

The seven-party alliance broke down after the CPN (Maoist Center) chose to support the Nepali Congress candidate in the presidential election.

The CPN-UML and other parties in the alliance said Dahal "betrayed" them by breaking the agreement to endorse the CPN-UML candidate as the president.

The Rastriya Prajatantra Party, which has 14 seats in the lower house, withdrew its support for the coalition government on Saturday. 
BANGKOK, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's rice export volume surged 75.2 percent in January from a year earlier to 805,519 tonnes, boosted by a weak Thai baht and year-end orders, the Ministry of Commerce said on Monday.

The country's rice export in January was valued at 14.28 billion baht (about 407 million U.S. dollars), up 78.76 percent year-on-year, Ronnarong Phoolpipat, director general of the ministry's foreign trade department, told a news conference.

Given higher demand from some Middle East countries, Thailand's rice export to the region rose to 2.3 million tonnes in 2022 from only 630,000 tonnes in 2021, Ronnarong said.

However, he expressed concerns over a strengthening baht since this year, which he said might cause the Thai rice export to be less competitive.

The ministry maintained its annual rice export target of 7.5 million tonnes for this year.

As one of the world's major rice exporters, Thailand exported 7.69 million tonnes of rice last year, beating its annual target of 7.5 million tonnes, with the top markets including Iraq, South Africa and China. 
ULAN BATOR, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- At least 10 Mongolian provinces were experiencing the extreme wintry weather, known as "dzud," the National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring said on Monday.

"Currently, at least 23 soums in 10 provinces of the country are experiencing dzud, and 41 soums in 13 provinces are facing near-dzud conditions," the agency said.

Over 60 percent of the nomadic country's territory has been covered with snow of up to 30 cm thick, it said.

Dzud is a Mongolian term to describe a severely cold winter when a large number of livestock die because the ground is frozen or covered by snow.

Some 366,000 head of livestock have been killed this year due to the harsh winter and other reasons, according to the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry. 
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko speaks during an exclusive interview with Xinhua ahead of his visit to China in Minsk, Belarus, Feb. 23, 2023. TO GO WITH "Interview: 'I have the warmest, kindest memories from my first visit to China,' says Belarusian president" (Photo by Henadz Zhinkov/Xinhua)

MINSK, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- "I have the warmest, kindest memories from my first visit to China, from my first impressions of the country, and from my cooperation with the leaders of the People's Republic of China," Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko told Xinhua in an exclusive interview ahead of his visit to China.

This year marks the 31st anniversary of China-Belarus diplomatic relations, which have been continuously strengthened and upgraded, with solid progress in all-round cooperation through these years.

On Sept. 15, 2022, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Lukashenko met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on the sidelines of the 22nd meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The two heads of state decided to elevate bilateral relations to the level of an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership. China-Belarus relations have reached their highest level in history.

Lukashenko has high hopes for his upcoming visit to China. "I have been to China many times. I am very glad to visit China again in the coming days and meet with the Chinese leader, my old friend President Xi Jinping, a very smart, wise, creative and modern person," the Belarusian president noted.

During the interview, Lukashenko looked back on his previous visits to China, recalling his first visit to China as the president of Belarus over two decades ago as well as his earlier trips as a member of parliament to China's special economic zones.

At that time, China was not the same as it is now, he said. "The population was huge ... Everyone had to be fed and dressed. China needed to strengthen national defense. Everything was not easy. However, China was determined to achieve all of these," Lukashenko said.

After visiting China, Lukashenko said he felt that in just a couple of decades China would achieve significant development, so China's experience should be learned.

The president noted that Belarus had drawn on China's experience, primarily that regarding special economic zones. "Based on this, we have established several free economic zones, including the Great Stone China-Belarus Industrial Park ... China's experience lay at the heart of it," he said.

The industrial park mentioned by Lukashenko is the largest project to attract investment in Belarus and a landmark cooperation project within the Belt and Road framework, which was promoted by the two heads of state personally and prized by the two governments. Since the two countries' leaders visited the industrial park in May 2015, development and construction of the project have forged ahead, and fruitful results have been achieved.

According to the National Statistical Committee of Belarus, the net profit of the enterprises of the industrial park totals 34.1 million Belarusian rubles (13.51 million U.S. dollars) in 2022, up by 144 percent from the previous year.

Reviewing the development of the industrial park in recent years, Lukashenko said that progress has been made despite the COVID-19 pandemic along with other crises and problems. Last year alone, there had been 19 enterprises moving in.

The latest statistics showed that there had been 107 companies in the industrial park by Feb. 22, 2023, with seven new enterprises settling in the park this year.

"Chinese President Xi Jinping once described the Great Stone as 'a pearl along the Silk Road Economic Belt,'" said Lukashenko, adding that Belarus attaches great importance to the development of the industrial park and provides many preferential policies including tax exemptions. "This is very beneficial for business," he stressed.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative. Belarus, as an important transit hub on the Silk Road Economic Belt, was one of the first countries to respond and participate in the initiative.

With the growth of biliteral ties, China and Belarus has seen a boom in trade over the past years. Statistics from the General Administration of Customs of China show that two-way trade surpassed 5 billion dollars in 2022, up by 33 percent year on year.

Lukashenko said that Belarus has a strong machine manufacturing sector. Currently the two countries are engaged in dialogue on issues of industrial policy.

"Today, we are already learning from China's new technologies, which are of interest to us. And this concerns all sectors, from the biotechnology to national defense. China has made significant progress," Lukashenko said.

"We are expecting more high-tech enterprises from China to join the industrial park," he said.

In recent years, China and Belarus have deepened cooperation in the field of scientific and technological innovation.

The Belarusian National Biotechnology Corporation (BNBC) project, a "high-tech full-cycle agriculture project," which includes the first amino acid manufacturing plant in Belarus and built in cooperation with China, was officially put into operation in the Minsk region on Nov. 4, 2022.

The BNBC is the first amino acid production enterprise in Belarus and the first import-substituting project in the industry of deep grain processing. Lukashenko said that the project would elevate the technological capability of the country and become the locomotive of national development.

Thanks to Xi's leadership, the project was able to implement, Lukashenko said, adding that "this is highly advanced technology. Not many countries in the world have such production facilities. China has helped us create such a biotech corporation."

The Belarusian president also mentioned that his youngest son is currently studying biotechnology in a joint training program between the two countries.

China has achieved great development and plays an important role in international affairs, he said, adding that China has become a major country with an independent policy and "today, not a single issue in the world can be resolved without China."

Expressing his firm belief that China will, as always, pursue an independent foreign policy of peace, Lukashenko said that China's position paper on political settlement of Ukraine crisis is a testimony to its peaceful foreign policy as well as a new and original step that will have a far-reaching impact all over the world.

On the U.S. downing of a Chinese civilian unmanned airship, Lukashenko called it "a very unfriendly step" and a "show" deliberately staged by the United States for political reasons.

"Today, no one can contain China or stop its development," the Belarusian president said. 
Jeffrey Ball (L, on the screen), scholar-in-residence at Stanford University's Steyer-Taylor Center for Energy Policy and Finance, makes remarks online during a panel discussion organized by the American Chinese Finance Association (ACFA) in New York, the United States, on Feb. 23, 2023. The United States and China have cooperation potential in the financial sector given China's further opening-up, bilateral collaboration between regulators and shared interests in fighting climate change, according to industry insiders and experts. (Xinhua/Liu Yanan)

by Xinhua writer Liu Yanan

NEW YORK, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- The United States and China have cooperation potential in the financial sector given China's further opening-up, bilateral collaboration between regulators and shared interests in fighting climate change, according to industry insiders and experts.

COOPERATION POTENTIAL

China and the United States could further promote cooperation between their financial institutions, such as in the opening up of financial markets to each other and in currency affairs, said Mingzhi Liu, professor of economics and finance at Tsinghua University PBC School of Finance.

The financial cooperation between the United States and China benefits the two economies and the world at large, said Liu at a panel discussion organized by the American Chinese Finance Association (ACFA) on Thursday.

"Together, China and the United States can do many things," said Liu, citing cooperation in the transition to green energy, financial digitalization and safeguarding stability in the financial markets.

Liu added that the two countries could cooperate in helping emerging markets and developing countries transition toward a greener future through financial means, a view echoed by Jeffrey Ball, scholar-in-residence at Stanford University's Steyer-Taylor Center for Energy Policy and Finance.

To the extent that China decarbonizes its outbound investment, there will be an increased opportunity in markets abroad, not just for Chinese firms but also for American firms, said Ball at the panel.

"There are things that the United States can do given its role in international institutions to support rather than thwart the greening of China's outbound investment," said Ball.

Ball said the desire for people on both sides of the Pacific to cooperate is strong.

"I believe the door of Chinese financial industry opening will be wider and wider, said Liu, "and I hope cooperation between China and the United States in the financial sector will become broader."

OPENING-UP ADDS ATTRACTIVENESS

The further opening-up of China's financial sector will bring more opportunities for U.S. players, said Liu.

Liu noted that U.S. financial players have performed well in China, with some expanding businesses in China.

China's switch to a registration-based initial public offering (IPO) system means that China's regulator is allowing the market to play a much bigger role in IPO price discovery and price setting, said Bryan Lin, CEO of Huatai Securities (USA), Inc.

Since the introduction of the qualified foreign institutional investors program in the early 2000s, the Chinese government has made the program more flexible, more user-friendly and therefore more attractive as a tool for foreign investors, Lin said at the panel discussion.

According to Lin, northbound trading under Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect program now accounts for 10 percent to 12 percent of total turnovers in the Shanghai Stock Exchange, up from 2 percent to 3 percent in early 2018.

"Offshore investors' ability to invest was significantly expanded, and we see a lot of activities by international investors," Lin said.

Lin also highlighted the attractiveness of Chinese onshore equities as investors allocate assets globally and seek relative value.

Moreover, the China Securities Regulatory Commission(CSRC) has recently clarified what Chinese companies must do to list overseas, with the variable interest entity structure allowed to continue, said Lin.

Chinese firms issue bonds and stocks in the United States, bringing investment opportunities to U.S. investors and financial institutions, according to Liu.

Last year, North American investors were the largest and most active investors trading in Chinese equities and paying commissions, including the Chinese American depositary receipts listed in the United States, echoed Lin, citing third-party data.

As the U.S. subsidiary of a leading Chinese securities house, Huatai Securities (USA) is expanding its operations, including in hiring more professionals, according to Lin.

The U.S. Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) confirmed in December 2002 that it was able to completely inspect and investigate the accounting firms headquartered in the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong in 2022, and thus vacating its relevant determinations made in 2021.

The PCAOB decision, which came a few months after China and the United States entered into an audit oversight cooperation agreement, marked a "watershed event" as it removed the threat of forced delisting and reopened the door to further Chinese IPOs in the form of depository receipts, said Lin.

In the past two years, the two sides have conducted multiple rounds of discussions and negotiations regarding financial regulatory cooperation, which is a good thing, Lin noted. 

Bryan Lin (L), CEO of Huatai Securities (USA), Inc., makes a presentation during a panel discussion organized by the American Chinese Finance Association (ACFA) in New York, the United States, on Feb. 23, 2023. The United States and China have cooperation potential in the financial sector given China's further opening-up, bilateral collaboration between regulators and shared interests in fighting climate change, according to industry insiders and experts. (Xinhua/Liu Yanan)

Mingzhi Liu (C), who teaches at Tsinghua University PBC School of Finance, speaks during a panel discussion organized by the American Chinese Finance Association (ACFA) in New York, the United States, on Feb. 23, 2023. The United States and China have cooperation potential in the financial sector given China's further opening-up, bilateral collaboration between regulators and shared interests in fighting climate change, according to industry insiders and experts. (Xinhua/Liu Yanan)
HOUSTON, Feb. 27 (Xinhua)-- One person was killed and 12 people injured after at least seven confirmed tornadoes hit the south central U.S. state of Oklahoma on late Sunday and early Monday, which caused widespread damage to several towns and cities, authorities said on Monday.

The dead was found in Cheyenne in the wake of severe storms, local media outlet KOCO reported on Monday. Several homes and a cemetery in the western Oklahoma town were damaged.

None of the injuries are critical, KOCO reported.

Video on social media showed that in the overnight tornadoes and high winds, roofs were ripped off, brick walls tumbled and an SUV was flipped onto the hood of another car.

The severe storms knocked over numerous power lines, broke power poles, and caused thousands of outages across the state on Monday.

At least two elementary schools were closed on Monday because of power outages, Norman Public Schools officials said. The National Weather Service (NWS) on Monday confirmed that at least seven tornadoes spun up across Oklahoma, resulting at least EF-2 damage at a few locations and that rating may increase.

KOCO Meteorologist Damon Lane said the figure already makes this month the most active February for tornadoes in Oklahoma history while many more likely tornadoes are still to count.

The previous record was six in 1975 and 2009.

"My heart goes out to the communities impacted by last night's severe weather; especially those hit hardest like Cheyenne and my hometown of Norman," Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt tweeted on Monday.

The NWS said possible tornadoes also hit parts of neighboring states Kansas and Texas, causing injuries, damages and outages.

More than 75,000 homes and businesses were without power in Oklahoma and Kansas early Monday, while high winds were blamed for nearly 15,000 power outages in Texas, according to the weather.com website. 
Russia uses North Africa to circumvent oil sanctions, WSJ reports 27 February, 10:24 PM Oil tanker, illustrative photo (Photo:Tatiana Meel / Reuters)

Western sanctions against Russian oil products forced Moscow to redirect exports from Europe to alternative markets, such as those of North African countries, The Wall Street Journal reported on Feb. 25.

Analysts suspect that some of that cargo later gets resold in Europe.

In particular, Morocco, which imported about 600,000 barrels of Russian diesel throughout 2021, surged to 2 million barrels imported in January 2023, with another 1.2 million barrels expected to arrive by the end of February.

Tunisia, which imported virtually no Russian oil products in 2021, bought 2.8 million barrels of Russian oil products in January and is expected to import another 3.1 million barrels in February.

Video of day

Algeria and Egypt also recently saw a surge in the import of oil products from the Russian Federation.

The increased imports to Tunisia and Morocco coincided with an uptick in their own refined-product exports, raising concerns that Russian cargoes were being blended with other oil products and re-exported, the article reads.

That process disguises the ultimate origin of the products and complicates Western efforts to remove Russian fossil fuels from their economies.

Morocco, which previously did not have a significant export of diesel, in January sent 280,000 barrels of diesel to the Spanish Canary Islands and another 270,000 barrels to Turkey, which coincided with the influx of Russian state-owned enterprises in Morocco. The origin of these diesel supplies could not be established.

Read also: Fired deputy economy minister to become top manager of state oil company

The oil ministries of Morocco and Tunisia did not respond to requests for comment.

Previously, it was reported that the Russian Federation is transshipping millions of barrels of Russian oil and oil products off the coast of Greece in order to bypass EU sanctions.

In October 2022, Bloomberg wrote that a shadow fleet of tankers was being formed globally to transport Russian oil.

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Alternatives to NATO membership offer limited security to Ukraine, former minister says 27 February, 09:05 PM The Alliance should ask Ukraine to become a NATO member, says Volodymyr Ohryzko (Photo:REUTERS/Yves Herman)

Ukraine should abandon the recently proposed rapprochement with the UK, Germany, and France as a substitute to full NATO membership, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (2007-2009) and head of the Russian Research Center, Volodymyr Ohryzko, said in an interview with NV Radio on Feb. 26.

To be honest, Im not interested in this, Ohryzko said, branding the offer a second version of the Budapest Memorandum.

And I think that we shouldnt even try to discuss plans like that. We dont need to replace full membership with rapprochement to NATO, he added.

The former minister believes that the alliance should have asked for Ukraine to become a member of NATO, because the Ukrainian army is now the strongest in Europe.

Video of day

Thats why, I think that such things should, as they say, be swept aside, he said, adding his version of the response to the allies: Dear friends, thank you for such wonderful proposals, but we arent interested in them. We are interested in receiving weapons with not conditions and full membership in NATO.

According to Ohryzko, it will take Ukraine another 150 years to join NATO, if it follows the alternative plan proposed by the UK, Germany, and France.

I think we need to communicate clearly, calmly, without emotion, that the plan doesnt suit us, said the former minister.

On Feb. 24, The Wall Street Journal reported that France, the UK and Germany had offered Ukraine to sign a treaty together that would accelerate Ukraines rapprochement with NATO.

Read also: EU and NATO discuss providing Ukraine with Western fighter jets

This treaty will provide access to Western military equipment, but obliges Kyiv to start peace negotiations with Moscow. It also doesn't guarantee that Ukraine will become a member of the alliance.

The offer was put forward by UK PM Rishi Sunak, and supported by Berlin and Paris. According to the WSJ, these countries doubt that Ukraine would be able to expel Russian forces from its territory by military means. The countries also believe that Western partners won't be able to support Ukraine with military aid if the war reaches a stalemate.

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Israeli missile warning system can be deployed in Kyiv in 4 months 27 February, 09:38 PM The flag of Israel (Photo:Oleg Vakhromov/Unsplash)

The Israeli early missile detection system can be deployed in Ukraine within four months, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said during his recent visit to Kyiv, The Times of Israel reported on Feb. 27.

Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel Yevheny Korniychuk, said that Ukraine has been publicly asking for the system for six months, which was promised but never arrived. The article notes that the initial deployment of the system will be a pilot project, and "at best will cover a city like Kyiv."

Read also: Israel pledges early air threat warning system for Ukraine

Korniychuk believes that Ukraine can win the war within a few months  if it gets the help it asked for from its Western allies.

Video of day

We do understand that Israel doesnt have much in stock now, but the war will not to be over, unfortunately, tomorrow, said Korniychuk.

Its a long run, and if we will finally agree and start to receive some Israeli defensive equipment in three months, six months, nine months from now  that is okay.

The Times of Israel recalls that Ukraine is asking Israel for deliveries of the Iron Dome and Davids Sling missile defense systems, while Jerusalem is worried about spoiling relations with Russia.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen visited Ukraine on Feb 16. He was the highest-ranking Israeli government official to visit Ukraine since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The minister visited Bucha and Hostomel, as well as Babi Yar Holocaust Memorial in Kyiv.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu earlier said that the country's government is considering providing Ukraine with "other types of assistance."

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Global Women's Health Devices Market

Global Women's Health Devices Market

Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Women's Health Devices Global Market Report 2022" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides strategists, marketers and senior management with the critical information they need to assess the global women's health devices market.

The global women's health devices market 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 women's health devices market is expected to grow to $46.55 billion in 2026 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4%.



Reasons to Purchase

Gain a truly global perspective with the most comprehensive report available on this market covering 12+ geographies.

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Create regional and country strategies on the basis of local data and analysis.

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Outperform competitors using forecast data and the drivers and trends shaping the market.

Understand customers based on the latest market research findings.

Benchmark performance against key competitors.

Utilize the relationships between key data sets for superior strategizing.

Suitable for supporting your internal and external presentations with reliable high quality data and analysis

Major players in the women's 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 women's health devices market consists of sales of women's health devices by entities (organizations, sole traders, and partnerships) that are used to enhance women's healthcare, including maternal and menstrual health, pelvic and sexual health, fertility, menopause, and contraception, as well as many general health disorders that affect women disproportionately or differently such as osteoporosis or cardiovascular disease. Women's health devices refer to devices that enable them to take control of their health and health-related data with at-home tests and other features.



The main product types of women's health devices are surgical, diagnostics, contraceptives, labor and delivery, and critical care. A surgical device refers to a specialized device used by surgeon to relieve a medical condition. The applications of women's health devices include cancer, osteoporosis, infectious disease, uterine fibroids, post-menopausal syndrome, pregnancy, female sterilization, and other applications. The various end-users of women's health devices include hospitals, obstetrics and gynecology clinics, diagnostic laboratories, ambulatory surgical centers, and other end users.



North America was the largest region in the women's health devices market in 2021. Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period. The regions covered in the women's health devices market report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East and Africa.



The women's health devices market research report is one of a series of new reports that provides women's health devices market statistics, including women's health devices industry global market size, regional shares, competitors with a women's health devices market share, detailed women's health devices market segments, market trends and opportunities, and any further data you may need to thrive in the women's health devices industry. This women's health devices market research report delivers a complete perspective of everything you need, with an in-depth analysis of the current and future scenarios of the industry.



An increase in government programs aimed at raising awareness about women's health is contributing to the growth of the women's health devices market going forward. Government programs aimed at raising awareness about women's health refer to initiatives and awareness events organized by the government to make the population aware of some societal boosting 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.

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For instance, in March 2022, according to The Department of Health, Victoria, the Victorian government released its first-ever women's sexual and reproductive health strategy and priority action plan for Women's 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 women's health is expected to boost demand for women's health devices during the forecast period.



Technological advancement is a key trend gaining popularity in the women's health devices market. Many companies operating in the women's health devices sector are looking for new technologies to strengthen their position in the women's health devices market.

In February 2022, CooperSurgical, a US-based women's healthcare brand, acquired Cook Medical's reproductive health portfolio for an amount of $875 million. With this acquisition both the companies aim to invest in future growth and new technologies. Cook medical is a US-based company that manufacturers invasive medical devices for fertility, obstetrics, gynaecology, in vitro fertilization, and assisted reproductive technology.



The countries covered in the women's health devices market report are Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Russia, South Korea, UK, and USA.



Report Metrics:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 175 Forecast Period 2022 - 2026 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $33.7 billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2026 $46.55 billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.4% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Women's Health Devices Market Characteristics



3. Women's Health Devices Market Trends And Strategies



4. Impact Of COVID-19 On Women's Health Devices



5. Women's Health Devices Market Size And Growth

5.1. Global Women's Health Devices Historic Market, 2016-2021, $ Billion

5.1.1. Drivers Of The Market

5.1.2. Restraints On The Market

5.2. Global Women's Health Devices Forecast Market, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

5.2.1. Drivers Of The Market

5.2.2. Restraints On the Market



6. Women's Health Devices Market Segmentation

6.1. Global Women's Health Devices Market, Segmentation By Product, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

Surgical

Diagnostics

Contraceptives

Labor and Delivery

Critical Care

Other Products

6.2. Global Women's Health Devices Market, Segmentation By Application, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

Cancer

Osteoporosis

Infectious Disease

Uterine Fibroids

Post-menopausal Syndrome

Pregnancy

Female Sterilization

Other Applications

6.3. Global Women's Health Devices Market, Segmentation By End-user, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

Hospitals

Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinics

Diagnostic Laboratories

Ambulatory Surgical Centres

Other End Users

7. Women's Health Devices Market Regional And Country Analysis

7.1. Global Women's Health Devices Market, Split By Region, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

7.2. Global Women's Health Devices Market, Split By Country, Historic and Forecast, 2016-2021, 2021-2026F, 2031F, $ Billion

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vnaz39-health?w=12

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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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CONTACT: CONTACT: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900




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Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Hereditary Testing Market by Disease Type, by Technology, and by Region - Global Forecast to 2023-2033" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The hereditary testing market size is estimated to be USD 6,345.1 million in 2022 and is expected to witness a CAGR of 9.51% during the forecast period 2023-2033.

This comprehensive research report focuses on the global and regional market size and forecasts of diverse segments including disease type and technology from 2022 to 2033.

Growing field of reproductive genetic health, increase in the demand for newborn screening, and rise in the need for genetic testing are projected to drive the market growth in near future.

Furthermore, increasing technological developments and surge in chronic diseases is expected to support the market growth. However, ineffective regulation of the tests is predicted to limit market growth are expected to restrain the market growth.



Increase in the demand for newborn screening is projected to drive the market growth. Continuous growth in the demand for newborn screening has increased the demand for DNA testing kits, which has increased revenues. Newborn screening is becoming more widely used globally, which is helping to boost sales.

Multigene panel testing for hereditary cancer has been included into clinical practise as a result of changes to genetic testing recommendations. Information on various cancer risk factors and treatment is available in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers.



Rise in the need for genetic testing anticipated to fuel the market growth. DNA screening kit purchases have surged as a result of the rise in the demand for genetic testing. For instance, in November 2019, the Virginia Department of General Services Division of Integrated Laboratory Facilities examined 7,867 babies for over 31 genetic and metabolic disorders.

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The market is expanding as newborn screening is being used more often globally. Multigene panel screening has become more prevalent in clinics for inherited disorders due to modifications made to genetic testing protocols.



Segmentation

By Disease Type



The market is categorized into hereditary non-cancer testing and hereditary cancer testing.

In 2022, the hereditary cancer testing segment accounted for the highest revenue share. The breast cancer segment dominated the market during the forecast period due to the range of products and services available for various hereditary cancer tests. The market has been substantially fueled by the recent entry of big players including Quest in this area.

Companies are emphasizing on business strategies to increase their position in this market as they view breast cancer genetic testing as a valuable source of revenue. Offering hereditary tests for less than competitors charge is one of the approaches. For instance, Color Genomics started selling its products for USD 259, whereas Myriad charged approximately USD 4,000 for comparable items.



By Technology



The market is segmented into biochemical, cytogenic and molecular testing.

In the global market, the molecular testing segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2022 owing to fact that genetic analysis is the most extensively used method for hereditary genetic screening.

For instance, carriers testing, medical tests, pre-symptomatic testing, and other procedures all make use of genetic hereditary testing kits. Genetic testing is also preferred as it can be used to study DNA increases and losses that are undetectable by standard chromosomal inspection.



Regional Markets



In 2022, Europe region accounted for the highest revenue in the hereditary testing market and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period.

This is attributed to existence of major players offering genetic testing, widespread use of cutting-edge therapies, and recommendations made by government organisations to guarantee the quality of hereditary testing services. The approval and commercialization of tests in the worldwide market have been profoundly impacted by regional variations in regulatory frameworks pertaining to genetic tests.

Presently, numerous significant American companies and other countries in Europe, Asia Pacific, and other regions provide a broad range of genetic tests. The all-cash equity acquisition of Blueprint Genetics by diagnostic information services provider Quest Diagnostics was announced in January 2020.

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and proprietary bioinformatics are the main tools used by Blueprint Genetics to interpret gene variants. By making actionable insights into genetic and rare diseases more widely available, Quest and Blueprint Genetics will enhance patient care and pharmaceutical medicine research and development. Such measures can improve the genetic testing situation for inherited disorders in North America, promoting local revenue generation.



Competitor Insights



Some of the key players operating in the hereditary testing market are Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings, Illumina, Inc., Quest Diagnostics Incorporated, CooperSurgical, Inc., F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Invitae Corporation, Agilent Technologies, Inc., Natera, Inc., Myriad Genetics, Inc., and Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.



To achieve a competitive edge, these businesses are implementing a variety of growth strategies. Strategic partnerships, alliances, and agreements with different businesses and research institutions are seen to be the main strategies used by companies in this sector.



For instance, Natera's cross-selling initiatives have enabled the business to generate significant revenue throughout the years. The business encourages women who have not had carrier screening tests in their first trimester to use both Horizon and Panorama products.



Segmentation: Hereditary Testing Market Report 2022 - 2033

Disease Type (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

Hereditary Non-cancer Testing

Genetic Tests

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis & Screening

Newborn Genetic Screening

Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) & Carrier Screening Tests

Hereditary Cancer Testing

Breast Cancer

Lung Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Ovarian Cancer

Melanoma

Sarcoma

Pancreatic Cancer

Colorectal Cancer

Cervical Cancer

Uterine Cancer

Gastric Cancer

Others

Technology (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

Biochemical

Cytogenic

Molecular Testing

By Region (Revenue, USD Million), 2022 - 2033

North America

U.S

Canada

Europe

Germany

France

UK

Spain

Italy

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

Australia

South Korea

Rest of APAC

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Argentina

Rest of LATAM

Middle East & Africa

South Africa

GCC

Rest of MEA

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes

Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings

Illumina Inc.

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated

CooperSurgical Inc.

F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd

Invitae Corporation

Agilent Technologies Inc.

Natera Inc.

Myriad Genetics Inc.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/r1nld4

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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




RENO, Nev., Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - i-80 GOLD CORP. (TSX: IAU) (NYSE: IAUX) ("i-80") and Paycore Minerals Inc. (TSXV: CORE) ("Paycore") are pleased to announce that the companies have entered into a definitive arrangement agreement (the "Agreement") whereby i-80 will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Paycore (the "Paycore Shares") pursuant to a statutory plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) (the "Transaction").

Paycore owns the FAD Property that is host to the high-grade FAD deposit located immediately south of, and adjoining, i-80's 100%-owned Ruby Hill Property ("Ruby Hill" or the "Property") located in Eureka County, Nevada.

The Transaction will consolidate the northern portion of the Eureka District and is expected to strengthen i80's dominant presence in the district by increasing the size of the land package at Ruby Hill by more than 34% to approximately 14,272 acres, providing i-80 enhanced exposure to one of the world's premier emerging Carbonate Replacement Deposit ("CRD") districts.

Highlights of the Transaction include:

Exchange ratio of 0.68 of an i-80 common share for each Paycore share held, representing a 36% premium for Paycore shareholders based on the 20-day volume-weighted average price for both Paycore and i-80 for the period ended on February 24, 2023 and a 26% premium based on the closing prices of both companies on February 24, 2023 1

Provides i-80 with an additional high-grade deposit along trend from mineralization being drilled on the Ruby Hill Property and in close proximity to the Ruby Hill processing infrastructure (3,540,173 t @ 5.14 g/t Au, 196.46 g/t Ag, 8.0% Zn, 3.8% Pb) 2

Consolidates the northern portion of the Eureka District and enhances the upside opportunity of i-80 post-Transaction

Increase i80's land position along the highly prospective Jackson-Holly fault corridor from 1.5km to 4.3km

Unanimous board approval and support from Paycore's largest shareholder, Waterton Nevada Splitter, LLC and Waterton Nevada Splitter II, LLC ("Waterton"), which holds approximately 25% of the outstanding Shares of Paycore

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"The geological setting being defined in the Eureka District is truly the most unique I have witnessed in my career", stated Ewan Downie, CEO of i-80. "In the immediate area surrounding the Archimedes pit, we have identified oxide gold, Carlin-type refractory gold, base metal skarn and polymetallic carbonate replacement mineralization. Older mineralizing events are often overprinted by Carlin-type mineralization resulting in precious metal rich deposits not found elsewhere in the Great Basin. We have intersected high-grade mineralization in every one of our targets tested in 2022, all of which remain wide open for expansion. The expanded property has the potential to host a world-class polymetallic deposit with enhanced potential for further discoveries."

_________________________________ 1 Premiums based on trading on the TSX-V for Paycore and the TSX for i-80. 2The historical estimates contained in this presentation have not been verified as current mineral resources. A "qualified person" (as defined in NI 43-101) has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves, and the Company is not treating the historical estimate as current mineral resources or mineral reserves.



"The consolidation of the core part of the Ruby Hill district will allow i-80 to aggressively pursue the optimization of the company's multi-year development plan  to create one of the largest U.S.-focused diversified mineral producers.", stated Matthew Gollat, Executive Vice-President of i-80. "Step-out drilling results from Paycore's 2022 drill program confirm the upside potential of what we believe to be one of Nevada's highest-grade undeveloped deposits that will benefit from the Ruby Hill processing infrastructure."

"This Transaction not only provides Paycore shareholders with greater exposure to the Eureka District, but also to i-80's high-grade Granite Creek and Cove Projects, and its existing permitted infrastructure which includes an autoclave, while also delivering a significant premium and enhanced liquidity as i-80 shareholders.", stated Christina McCarthy, President & CEO of Paycore.

James Gowans, Chairman of Paycore Minerals, states: "The mineralization of these two properties is indicating a massive carbonate replacement system along the fault corridor between the two properties. The combination of i-80 and Paycore's deposits is shaping up to be among the highest-grade carbonate replacement deposits (CRD's) in the world."

Transaction Details

Pursuant to the Transaction, Paycore shareholders will receive 0.68 of an i-80 common share (each whole common share, an "i-80 Share") for each Paycore Share held (the "Exchange Ratio"), representing a premium of 36% based on the 20-day volume weighted average price of both Paycore and i-80 shares for the period ended February 24, 2023 and a 26% premium based on the closing prices of both companies on February 24, 20233. Based on the Exchange Ratio, upon completion of the Transaction, existing i-80 shareholders will own approximately 90% and former Paycore shareholders will own approximately 10% of the combined company, on a fully diluted in-the-money basis. The Agreement includes, among other things, customary representations, warranties and covenants, including a non-solicitation provision, a right to match superior proposals in favour of i-80, as well as a termination fee of approximately $3.3 million payable by Paycore under certain customary circumstances.

The Transaction is expected to be structured as a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) and, in addition to other customary closing conditions, is subject to regulatory, stock exchange and court approvals or orders. The Transaction will require the approval of (i) two-thirds of the votes cast by Paycore shareholders at a special shareholder meeting and (ii) if required, a simple majority of the votes cast by Paycore shareholders at the special shareholder meeting, excluding the votes held by certain persons as required by Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions. Officers, directors and certain shareholders of Paycore including Waterton, who collectively hold approximately 29% of Paycore Shares, have entered into voting support agreements in favour of the Transaction.

The special meeting of shareholders of Paycore to approve the Transaction (the "Meeting") is expected to be held in late April 2023. A copy of the management information circular in respect of the Meeting will be filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Paycore's issuer profile and mailed to shareholders of Paycore in accordance with applicable securities laws.

_________________________________ 3 Premiums based on trading on the TSX-V for Paycore and the TSX for i-80.

Combined Company Asset Portfolio

On completion of the Transaction, i-80 will continue to own and operate its portfolio of mining assets, including Lone Tree, Ruby Hill, Granite Creek and McCoy Cove and will also own 100% interest in the FAD Property located on the Battle-Mountain-Eureka trend in Nevada.

Prior to the discovery of Carlin-type mineralization by Homestake at Ruby Hill in the 1990's, the Eureka District enjoyed a successful 100-year history of production (1864-1966) that resulted in some of the highest-grade historic CRD mines in the world. The Ruby Hill district reported estimated historical production of 1.65 Moz of gold at an average grade of 0.83 oz/ton (28.5 g/t Au) and 39.0 Moz of silver at an average grade of 19.5 oz/ton (668.6 g/t Ag) from 2.0 Mtons mined (also reported >625M lbs Pb @ 15.63 %) of which 80% is estimated to be from the original Ruby Hill Mine on the FAD Property 4.

The FAD deposit is the down-faulted, polymetallic-rich, extension of the original Ruby Hill Mine and was drilled by Paycore in 2022  a program that successfully expanded mineralization with multiple high-grade intercepts reported including:

PC22-07 - 1.06 g/t Au, 155.5 g/t Ag, 22.0% Zn & 1.5% Pb over 12.5 m and 2.03 g/t Au, 231.6 g/t Ag, 6.3% Zn & 3.7% Pb over 44.8 m





PC22-08 - 7.1 g/t Au, 376.3 g/t Ag, 6.3% Zn & 10.3% Pb over 14.8 m

Since the 1960's, exploration in the district was focused on the discovery of Carlin-type deposits and the potential for polymetallic deposits was largely ignored. More than 50-years later, i-80 and Paycore renewed exploration with i-80's inaugural drill program in 2021 and 2022 respectively, with numerous new discoveries including the Upper, Lower and East Hilltop Zones that are currently being drilled by i-80. These newly discovered CRD zones are located on the south side of the Archimedes pit (see Image 1). Previously released results from 2022 drilling in the Hilltop Zones include 515.3 g/t Ag, 28.9 % Pb, 10.5 % Zn & 0.9 g/t Au over 28.3 m in hole iRH22-43 (Upper Hilltop), 1.9 g/t Au, 631.3 g/t Ag, 7.4 % Zn & 33.0 % Pb over 18.3 m in hole iRH2253 (Upper Hilltop), 60.2 g/t Au, 908.7 g/t Ag, 1.1 % Zn & 15.7 % Pb over 10.0 m in hole iRH22-55 (Upper Hilltop) and 12.3% Zn over 39.4 m in hole iRH22-61 (East Hilltop) - see press releases dated August 30, 2022 and November 14, 2022.

It is also important to note that zinc was recently added to the U.S. Geological Survey's list of critical minerals and Blackjack/FAD/Hilltop could represent perhaps one of the most significant zinc-rich deposit(s) identified in the U.S. since the discovery of the Taylor deposit that was acquired in 2018 by South32.

The Hilltop Corridor is a 5.0 km long, alluvial covered, trend immediately south of the Archimedes pit believed to be host to multiple feeder fault structures (see Image 1) and the central area between Hilltop and FAD is largely untested by previous drilling owing to the alluvial cover. The discovery of the Upper and Lower Hilltop Zones in the second half of 2022 combined with holes iRH22-44 and iRH22-61, the first holes drilled to test for extensions to the Blackjack Deposit structure, confirm i-80 geological team's model that the Ruby Hill Property could be host to multiple types of mineralization and several large-scale deposits.

Geophysical surveys at Ruby Hill have identified highly prospective anomalies that are believed to have the potential to represent additional massive sulfide targets, several of which will be the tested in the 2023 drilling program. Additional RC and core rigs have been mobilized to accelerate the advancement of the multiple mineralized zones within the Hilltop Corridor.

The Ruby Hill Property is one of i-80's primary assets and is host to the core processing infrastructure within the Eureka District of the Battle Mountain-Eureka Trend including an idle leach plant, an active heap leach facility, and is host to multiple gold, gold-silver and polymetallic (base metal) deposits.

______________________________ 4 Source: Nolan, Thomas B.. The Eureka Mining District Nevada: Geological Survey Professional Paper 406. Washington, DC: United States Government Printing Office, 1962. 78pp. & Nolan, T.B., and Hunt, R. N., 1968, The Eureka Mining District, Nevada, in Ridge, J. D., ed., Ore deposits of the United States, 1933-1967 (Graton-Sales Vol.): New York, American Institute of Mining Metallurgy Petroleum Engineers. v. 1. P. 966-991

Image 1  Hilltop Corridor Surface Plan (CNW Group/Paycore Minerals Inc.)

i-80 has submitted for approval its plan to develop an underground mine at Ruby Hill with mineralization accessed via a ramp from the Archimedes open pit. Work is also progressing for the completion of updated mineral resource estimates (gold and polymetallic zones) and an initial economic study for the gold zones (only).

Advisors and Counsel

Bennett Jones LLP is acting as legal counsel to i-80. Fogler, Rubinoff LLP is acting as legal counsel to Paycore. CIBC World Markets Inc. is acting as financial advisor to Paycore.

Fairness Opinion

Haywood Securities Inc. has provided a fairness opinion to the special committee of the Board of Directors of Paycore stating that, as of the date hereof, and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications set forth therein, the consideration to be paid by i-80 pursuant to the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to Paycore shareholders.

Conference Call and Webcast

i-80 and Paycore will hold a joint conference call and webcast on February 27, 2023 at 9:30 am ET to discuss the Transaction. Those interested in participating in the conference call should dial in using the following numbers:

Toll-free Canada/US: 888-256-1007 International: 647-484-0475 Confirmation #: 3803049 Login to the webcast: https://app.webinar.net/M6k4VQGz9vR





The webcast will be archived on both i-80 and Paycore websites until the Transaction closes.

Encore Replay Local: 647-436-0148 Encore Replay North American Toll Free: 888-203-1112 Encore Replay Entry Code: 3803049



About i-80 Gold Corp.

i-80 Gold Corp. is a well-financed, Nevada-focused, mining company with a goal of achieving mid-tier gold producer status through the development of multiple deposits within the Company's advanced-stage property portfolio with processing at i-80's centralized milling facilities. i-80 Gold's common shares are listed on the TSX and the NYSE American under the trading symbol IAU:TSX and IAUX:NYSE. Further information about i-80 Gold's portfolio of assets and long-term growth strategy is available at www.i80gold.com or by email at info@i80gold.com.

About Paycore Minerals

Paycore is a corporation incorporated under the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) and, through its subsidiaries, holds a 100% interest in the FAD Property that is located in the heart of the Eureka-Battle Mountain trend in Nevada, USA. The FAD Property is host to the high-grade polymetallic FAD deposit that was partially delineated with surface and underground drilling in the 1940s and 1950s. The FAD Property is located less than 3 miles from Eureka, Nevada and has established infrastructure, including a shaft, roads and old buildings. FAD was previously owned by Barrick Gold. Barrick acquired the FAD Property when the Company acquired Homestake Mining in 2001.

Please click here for further information on abbreviations and conversions referenced in this press release.

QAQC Procedures

All i-80 samples were submitted to ALS Minerals (ALS) of Sparks, NV, which is an ISO 9001 and 17025 certified and accredited laboratory, independent of the Company. Samples submitted through ALS are run through standard prep methods and analysed using Au-AA23 (Au; 30g fire assay; ALS) and ME-ICP61a (33 element suite; 0.4g Four Acid/ICP-AES; ALS). Overlimit samples of Ag, Pb, and Zn are analyzed by ore-grade methods comprising HF-HNO3-HClO4 Digest, HCl leach and ICP-AES. Additional samples overlimit ore-grade methods are analyzed by acid dissolution and titration. ALS also undertakes their own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. i-80 Gold Corp's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards (gold and polymetallic), duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results.

All Paycore samples were submitted to ALS Minerals (ALS) of Sparks, NV, which is an ISO 9001 and 17025 certified and accredited laboratory, which is independent of the Company. Samples submitted through ALS are run through standard prep methods and analysed using Au-AA23 (Au; 30g fire assay) and ME-MS61 (48 element suite; 0.25g 4-acid/ICP-AES and ICP-MS). ALS also undertakes their own internal coarse and pulp duplicate analysis to ensure proper sample preparation and equipment calibration. Paycore's QA/QC program includes regular insertion of CRM standards, duplicates, and blanks into the sample stream with a stringent review of all results, and third-party assay checks of mineralized intercepts.

Qualified Person

Tyler Hill, CPG-12146, Senior Geologist at i-80 has reviewed this press release and is a qualified person (as defined in NI 43-101) for i-80, with respect to the scientific and technical information contained in it.

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the FAD Property was reviewed and approved by Gary Edmondo, CPG, who is a "qualified person" within the meaning of NI 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Gary is a certified professional geologist through the AIPG (#11089)

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including but not limited to, the expansion or mineral resources at Ruby Hill and the potential of the Ruby Hill project and the FAD project, the timing of the completion of the Transaction, the synergies of the Transaction, the anticipated benefits of the Transaction to shareholders of i-80 and Paycore, the third party approvals and consents (including the stock exchange approvals) required to complete the Transaction, the conditions required to be satisfied to complete the Transaction, the abilities of the companies to complete the Transaction on the terms announced (if at all), the future results of the operations of the combined company following the Transaction, the timing of the Meeting, the intentions, plans and future actions of the companies participating in the transactions described herein, performance and achievements of the combined company, the timing, content, cost and results of proposed work programs, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits / resources / reserves, geological interpretation, proposed production rates, potential mineral recovery processes and rates, business and financing plans, business and market trends and future operating revenues. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Although the companies believe that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements reflect the companies' current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this release. . The companies do not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law.

The public disclosure filings of i-80 and Paycore may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the mineral properties of the combined companies, and particularly the technical report titled "Amended and Restated NI 43-101 Technical Report, FAD Project, Eureka, Nevada" with an effective date of April 7, 2022 (amended and restated on February 1, 2023) prepared by Global Resource Engineering with respect to Paycore's FAD Project (the "FAD Technical Report"). A copy of the FAD Technical Report is accessible on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Paycore's issuer profile.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, but not limited to: the Agreement being terminated, material adverse changes, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits; the inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its activities, to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Paycore Minerals Logo (CNW Group/Paycore Minerals Inc.)

SOURCE Paycore Minerals Inc.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2023/27/c5886.html
For Namibia, natural gas production is a highly promising opportunity to grow and diversify its economy and create energy security

By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (http://www.EnergyChamber.org)

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / When I was working on my 2019 book, Billions At Play: The Future of African Energy and Doing Deals, I wrote that Qatar was well on its way to achieving its goal of becoming the "Gas Capital of the World." The tiny country is home to some of the largest gas-to-liquid (GTL) plants in the world and supplies more liquefied natural gas (LNG) than anyone else. It also uses its huge natural gas reserves, 872 trillion cubic feet (tcf), as feedstock for Qatar Fertilizer Company, the world's largest single-site producer of ammonia and urea. Since I wrote about it, Qatar only has moved closer to achieving its natural gas ambitions and is in the process of expanding its LNG production capacity.

In 2019, I was excited about the positive example Qatar provided for African gas-producing states.

Today, I'm particularly encouraged that Namibia, home to several massive oil and gas discoveries in recent years, is building a solid business relationship with Qatar. State-owned QatarEnergy owns significant stakes in the 2022 discoveries Shell and TotalEnergies made offshore Namibia.

For Namibia, natural gas production is a highly promising opportunity to grow and diversify its economy and create energy security. It's also uncharted territory. The recent discoveries there will result in the country's first oilfields.

Namibia will quickly need to learn how to effectively maximize the value of its hydrocarbon resources, and, Namibian Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo said some of those lessons will come from Qatar. Namibia also has expressed interest in getting guidance from Qatar on developing a national petroleum development strategy, best practices for revenue management, and an effective approach to environmental management.

Story continues

"It's a new industry for us, so there is a need to make sure the resources will be monetized to ensure it does become meaningful to the people of Namibia," Alweendo said around the time of Al Kaabi's first visit. "As a State, Qatar has been in the business much longer than us. Therefore we can learn many lessons from them."

I agree that partnering with, and learning from, a country with such a successful natural gas industry could be tremendously beneficial for Namibia. I hope the relationship between the two countries continues to grow and strengthen.

Ideally, more cooperation and knowledge-sharing will follow. Meanwhile, I strongly encourage Namibia to delve deeply into Qatar's history of natural gas production and monetization and learn from its accomplishments. Alweendo's pragmatic commonsense approach to energy development can also be a plus as he engages with Qatar or the International Oil Companies. We have seen it up close at various engagements with the industry at the NIEC or at African Energy Week in Cape Town.

Capitalizing Upon Huge Reserves

Qatar learned that it possessed truly huge reserves of natural gas in 1971, when Royal Dutch Shell discovered the North Dome structure, also known as the North Field. At the time, though, neither Shell nor Qatar's government had a great deal of interest in developing the site. Their focus was on crude oil, which was then making the country very rich.

Conditions began to change in the late 1970s. Qatari crude production started to decline after 1979 as the country's largest oil fields matured. And in the 1980s, oil prices sank - and brought oil revenues down along with them. As a result, Qatar's government began looking for new ways to generate income.

Gas was an obvious option since global demand was rising, and national reserves were ample. Officials in Doha began to draw up plans for monetizing production from the North field, which is now known to contain at least 50 trillion cubic feet of gas in recoverable reserves.

Eventually, they developed a three-phase plan that would start with domestic sales then proceed to pipeline exports before finally launching marine exports of LNG. To implement the plan, they set up a joint venture known as Qatar Liquefied Natural Gas Co. Ltd. (Qatargas) in 1984 between Qatar General Petroleum Co. (QGPC, now QatarEnergy) BP, and Total (now TotalEnergies).

The first phase, which brought gas to Qatari businesses and homes, was a relatively simple process due to the small size of Qatar's population. But economic and geopolitical events in the late 1980s and early 1990s impeded the second phase, which called for the construction of an export pipeline to other member-states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Ultimately, border disputes and infighting among GCC members made the project impossible.

The failure of the pipeline allowed Qatargas to skip directly to the third phase - namely, using production from the North Field as feedstock for a gas liquefaction plant that could turn out LNG for export by tanker.

At the same time, rising demand for gas in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan gave Qatar an incentive to focus on LNG. Additionally, BP made the decision to exit Qatargas. This cleared the way for the U.S. company Mobil (now part of ExxonMobil) to join the project.

Mobil was a good fit, partly because it had ample financial resources and partly because it had extensive experience with LNG through its participation in the Arun scheme in Indonesia. It was able to access and deploy the technologies needed to launch Qatar's first LNG plant.

That facility brought its first 2 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) production train online in late 1996 and began commercial production and exports the following year.

Since then, Qatar has continued to ramp up gas production and expand its LNG industry. It has worked with foreign partners to build more gas liquefaction facilities and is now home to three LNG mega-trains with a combined production capacity of 77 million mtpa.

These plants helped make Qatar the world's largest LNG producer in 2006, and they have kept the country at the top of the list ever since.

Namibia won't be able to fully duplicate Qatar's experience. It doesn't have the same geography or demographics. But it can benefit from some of the lessons that Qatar learned along the way. I'll list a few of them here.

A Little Help From My Friends

Less than a decade after nationalizing its oil and gas industry, Qatar began looking into plans for launching LNG production. It had a clear understanding that it could not pursue this goal without outside help.

More specifically, QGPC and the Qatari government knew they would need partners with plenty of cash, experience, and access to gas liquefaction technology. They also knew they would need partners that were willing to absorb the risks involved in opening up a new frontier. As it happened, Mobil met all these criteria.

Namibia will need help too. Like Qatar, it will need to pair up with IOCs that can help cover the costs of establishing a new sector of industry, that have experience in handling all of the physical and logistical complications of such projects, and that can supply the sophisticated technologies needed to compress and cool gas into a liquid state that can be transported by tanker. Also like Qatar, it will need investors that are ready to build this sector of the economy from the ground up. Namibia is off to a strong start here because of its partnerships with Shell, TotalEnergies, and QatarEnergy, but the country should continue making an enabling environment for IOCs, and working to attract investors, a priority. It must send the right message to the investor community that it will maintain stable leadership and avoid resource nationalism and red tape that has been very problematic for African countries.

Staying Flexible

When Qatargas' plans to build a pipeline foundered due to unexpected obstacles, the company didn't let that derail its big-picture goals. Instead of focusing on these obstacles, it decided to take a different approach. It accepted that its efforts to draw up new plans and engage in further negotiations had failed, and it moved on. It dispensed with the second phase of the project altogether and got to work on the third phase. And that marked the first step of Qatar's journey to becoming the largest LNG producer in the world.

This is an important lesson for Namibia: Sometimes the original plan simply doesn't work out, even when all parties make good-faith efforts to resolve their differences. So, then it's time to try something different. It's time to look for a new solution.

Resource Management

Qatar can also teach Namibia a thing or two about resource management. This has been a crucial consideration for QatarEnegy and its partners in Qatargas, since most of their feedstock has come from a single source - the North Field. This field may be huge, but it is hardly inexhaustible. In fact, Doha imposed a temporary moratorium on new development initiatives at North in 2005, saying that it needed to conduct a thorough study of the site to assess its long-term potential and keep reservoir pressure at adequate levels.

That moratorium was significant: Qatar's government didn't lift it until 2017. Immediately, plans were drawn up for the North Field Expansion (NFE) project and for the construction of new gas liquefaction facilities. By 2022, QatarEnergy completed two rounds of investment deals with Western partners for the NFE, which includes the addition of six LNG trains capable of increasing its liquefaction capacity from 77 mtpa to 126 mtpa by 2027.

These events are significant because they demonstrate that Qatar wants to keep its LNG plants in business for a long, long time. The company was willing to accept a 12-year moratorium on new development initiatives to ensure that its largest source of gas could remain in production over the long term.

Timing is Everything

Of course, Qatar owes some of its success to optimum timing. Its gas sector emerged at a time when the country was highly motivated to find a replacement for dwindling oil revenues, when demand for gas was on the rise, when there were few viable alternative markets in the region, and when Mobil happened to be on the lookout for a new LNG project.

It appears that timing is on Namibia's side as well. With European countries attempting to free themselves from reliance on Russian supplies in response to the conflict in Ukraine, interest in natural gas from Africa is at an all-time high. As recently as this month, Reuters reported that European governments will be in a costly race to replenish the gas used this winter before the next peak winter demand. And that cycle, likely, will continue beyond 2023.

"To ward off market volatility and protect against shortage, they will have to repeat the exercise annually until the continent has developed a more permanent alternative to the Russian pipeline gas on which it depended for decades," the article states.

It will be vital for Namibia to find a balanced approach to launching its gas sector, working to avoid delays that could hinder its ability to capitalize on increased demand, but at the same time, taking a strategic approach to developing a gas industry that Namibia's people, businesses, and communities can benefit from well into the future.

Cooperating with, and learning from, Qatar can help with all of these objectives.

SOURCE: African Energy Chamber





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/740875/African-Energy-Chamber-What-Namibia-Can-Learn-from-Qatar-on-Gas-Development-and-Monetization




Market Research Future

The key drivers for the growth of AI in telecommunication is increasing demand for autonomously driven network solution.

New York, US, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a comprehensive research report by Market Research Future (MRFR),  AI in Telecom Market By Component, Deployment, Application Forecast till 2030, AI in telecommunication market to expand at a CAGR of 43.10% by 2030

Many different industries, including healthcare, banking, the automotive, and telecommunications, are heavily utilising artificial intelligence. By boosting output and operational effectiveness, automating corporate procedures, and assisting organisations in making quicker decisions, AI technology has the potential to alter the way that industries operate. Wireless communication in the telecommunications sector has a significant impact on the sector and its consumers, despite being a complicated creation. Use AI in the telecommunications sector to address the complicated nature of wireless systems.

AI in Telecom Market Key Players:

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Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd (China)

IBM Corporation (US)

Microsoft Corporation (US)

Intel Corporation (US)

Cisco Systems (US)

Nuance Communication (US)

ZTE Corporation (China)

H2O.ai (US)

Salesforce (US)

Infosys Limited (India)

Google LLC (US).

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By 2030, the market for artificial intelligence in telecommunications is projected to be worth USD 10.30 billion, rising at a 43.10% CAGR between 2022 and 2030.

AI in telecommunications enables automation to lower costs and boost efficiency by enabling intelligent decision-making to manage dynamic network traffic and resources. The growing demand for autonomously driven network solutions is one of the main factors propelling the rise of AI in telecommunication. The ability of humans to operate such huge and sophisticated networks is being outpaced by the complexity and size growth of telecommunications networks.

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AI in Telecommunication Market Report Scope:

Report Metrics Details AI in Telecom Market Size by 2030 USD 10.30 Billion AI in Telecom Market CAGR 43.10% From 2022 to 2030 Base Year 2021 Forecast 2022-2030 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Key Market Drivers The key drivers for the growth of AI in telecommunication is increasing demand for autonomously driven network solution.

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As a result, the telecommunications industry requires highly developed, intelligent, and autonomous network-driven solutions. The speed of service, network quality, and customer experience are all being improved by telecommunications businesses through the adoption of these autonomous and intelligent network solutions while operational costs are being reduced.

Customers communicate online today utilising a variety of social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and blogs, where they discuss their experiences with and complaints about service providers. Service providers must therefore have a strategy and the necessary means to gather and analyse such a massive amount of data in order to offer appealing services and increase client retention.

User call reports and network data are the other data sources for telecom service providers. This information enables the analysis of network performance, which lowers customer attrition and boosts profitability. As a result, the demand for data-driven solutions is rising, which is fueling the development of AI in the telecommunications industry.

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The global AI in telecommunication market study aims at different segments such as component, deployment mode, technology, application, regions.

By component, the market is segmented into solution and services. The solution is further sub-segmented into network optimization, network security, SDN (software-defined network) & NFV (network function virtualization), and others.

The services are further sub-segmented into professional service and managed services. By deployment mode, the market is segmented into cloud and on-premise.

By technology, the market is segmented into machine learning (ML) & deep learning (DL) and natural language processing (NLP).

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Regional analysis

Over the projection period from 2018 to 2023, it is anticipated that the global market for artificial intelligence in telecommunications would expand significantly. North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the rest of the globe are all researched in terms of the geographic analysis of AI in the telecommunications sector.

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Due to the existence of numerous major companies like IBM Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, and Cisco Systems that offer AI-enabled solutions for the telecommunications industry, North America is predicted to dominate the global market for AI in telecommunication. Due to the digital transformation occurring in many of these nations, which makes the adoption of AI-driven solutions in telecommunication possible, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to experience the quickest growth throughout the forecast period for the worldwide AI in telecommunication market.

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Market Research Future (MRFR) is a global market research company that takes pride in its services, offering a complete and accurate analysis regarding diverse markets and consumers worldwide. Market Research Future has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.

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SCOR

Press Release

February 27, 2023 - N 03

Alexandre Garcia is appointed Group Head of Communications and Public Affairs

Alexandre Garcia, previously Head of PR and Corporate Communications, is appointed Group Head of Communications and Public Affairs. In his new position, his responsibilities will include fostering reflection on the role of risk in society, and highlighting SCORs expertise in this field.

Francois de Varenne, Interim CEO of SCOR, comments: Alexandres extensive experience and recognized skills in corporate communications, media relations and thought leadership will ensure the continuity of dialogue with all our stakeholders, help us to share to Groups new roadmap, and make sure that SCORs voice is heard within its ecosystem and beyond.

Alexandre is based in Paris and reports to Claire Le Gall-Robinson, SCORs General Secretary and Group Chief Sustainability Officer.

Nathalie Mikaeloff, previously Director of Communications and Marketing at SCOR, is leaving the Group to pursue new professional opportunities.

Biography

Before joining SCOR in 2022, Alexandre was a Director at Taddeo, a strategic communications consulting firm that he joined in 2017. There, he supported the leaders of large, listed companies with their corporate communications strategies, notably in the (re)insurance sector. Prior to Taddeo, Alexandre successively held various positions at LOreal, working first as a Business Analyst in the Financial Communication and Strategic Prospective department, and then from 2015 onwards as Marketing Project Manager for Brazil and Asia.

Alexandre Garcia is a graduate of Sciences Po Paris and HEC.

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Contact details

Media Relations

Alexandre Garcia

media@scor.com

Investor Relations

Yves Cormier

ycormier@scor.com

www.scor.com

LinkedIn: SCOR | Twitter: @SCOR_SE

SCOR, a Global Tier 1 Reinsurer

SCOR, a leading global reinsurer, offers its clients a diversified and innovative range of reinsurance and insurance solutions and services to control and manage risk. Applying The Art & Science of Risk, SCOR uses its industry-recognized expertise and cutting-edge financial solutions to serve its clients and contribute to the welfare and resilience of society.

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With a Tier 1 rating from Standard & Poors, AM Best, Moodys and Fitch, SCOR offers its clients AA-level security.

The Group generated premiums of more than EUR 17.5 billion in 2021 and serves clients in more than 160 countries from its 36 offices worldwide.

For more information, visit: www.scor.com

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(PRNewsfoto/Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.)

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE: ARE), the first, preeminent, longest-tenured and pioneering owner, operator and developer of collaborative life science, agtech and technology campuses in AAA innovation cluster locations with approximately 1,000 tenants, is profoundly committed to driving forward innovative solutions to address the rapidly growing mental health crisis through its multifaceted business platform built on the foundation of its four key verticals of real estate, venture investments, corporate responsibility and thought leadership. With an unmatched asset base in North America of nearly 75 million SF, Alexandria's state-of-the-art R&D facilities, coupled with its deeply experienced Labspace management and operations, enable its tenants to develop new, novel therapies, medicines and cures across a range of diseases and disorders, including psychiatric and neurological diseases such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It has also been identifying and investing in life science companies that are making a significant positive impact on people living with mental health-related disorders through Alexandria Venture Investments, the company's strategic venture capital platform, for over 25 years.

"Our country is in the midst of a devastating and pervasive mental health crisis that we need to meaningfully address," said Jenna Foger, senior vice president of science and technology at Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. and Alexandria Venture Investments. "Mental health is essential not only to the vitality of each individual human but also to the health and safety of our communities overall. Since my time as a former bench scientist at The Rockefeller University researching the biomolecular underpinnings of a range of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, I have always been motivated by the immense potential to transform the way we treat and ultimately cure these serious health challenges. Building upon Alexandria's nearly three decades of dedication to its deeply impactful social responsibility pillars and thought leadership initiatives, we are steadfast in identifying and partnering with leading-edge life science companies across our ecosystems to help address the nation's mental health epidemic."

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Alexandria's eighth social responsibility pillar, established in 2021, aims to address the country's rapidly growing mental health and suicide crisis. Due to the ongoing burden of mental illnesses, severe complications, most notably addiction and suicide, have been increasing among adults. Amid a crisis that affects all Americans, military personnel and veterans experience mental health concerns at higher rates. Nearly 1 in 4 active-duty members showed signs of a mental health condition, according to a 2014 study in JAMA Psychiatry, and veterans faced a suicide rate nearly 60% higher than non-veteran adults, according to the 2022 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Committed to ensuring that our national heroes, along with their families, receive the tools they need to live productive and happy lives, Alexandria has been an active supporter of the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF) for over a decade, and its executive chairman and founder, Joel S. Marcus, has served on the foundation's board since 2018. The foundation provides specialized programs aimed at addressing the unique physical and mental health concerns of the SEAL community and their families. NSF also maintains connections to clinical psychologists and access to cutting-edge treatment modalities, and it openly addresses suicide prevention through its Whole Warrior Health Forums.

Alexandria continues to strengthen its strategic relationships with non-profit organizations and convene key stakeholders from its world-class network to help advance groundbreaking medical innovation to transform the lives of the over 50 million people living with a mental illness in the United States. As part of Alexandria's highly impactful thought leadership platform, the company recently presented a timely conversation on the state of mental health in America with former congressman Patrick J. Kennedy, one of the world's leading voices and policymakers on mental health, at the Galien Forum USA 2022. Tomorrow, on February 28, 2023, Alexandria will hold a mission-critical Healthcare Policy Forum on Mental Health, in partnership with Patrick Kennedy and The Kennedy Forum, to explore critical issues aimed at accelerating new and innovative solutions to combat this unprecedented crisis while further normalizing conversations around mental health and addiction so that the stigma no longer prevents individuals from seeking help.

About Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.

Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. (NYSE: ARE), an S&P 500 company, is a best-in-class, mission-driven life science REIT making a positive and lasting impact on the world. As the pioneer of the life science real estate niche since its founding in 1994, Alexandria is the preeminent and longest-tenured owner, operator and developer of collaborative life science, agtech and technology campuses in AAA innovation cluster locations, including Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, San Diego, Seattle, Maryland and Research Triangle. The trusted partner to approximately 1,000 tenants, Alexandria has a total market capitalization of $35.0 billion and an asset base in North America of 74.6 million SF as of December 31, 2022, which includes 41.8 million RSF of operating properties and 5.6 million RSF of Class A properties undergoing construction, 9.9 million RSF of near-term and intermediate-term development and redevelopment projects and 17.3 million SF of future development projects. Alexandria has a longstanding and proven track record of developing Class A properties clustered in life science, agtech and technology campuses that provide our innovative tenants with highly dynamic and collaborative environments that enhance their ability to successfully recruit and retain world-class talent and inspire productivity, efficiency, creativity and success. Alexandria also provides strategic capital to transformative life science, agrifoodtech, climate innovation and technology companies through our venture capital platform. We believe our unique business model and diligent underwriting ensure a high-quality and diverse tenant base that results in higher occupancy levels, longer lease terms, higher rental income, higher returns and greater long-term asset value. For additional information on Alexandria, please visit www.are.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding Alexandria's social responsibility initiatives, practices, investments and progress, the likelihood of continued support, investment and partnership by Alexandria and the potential impacts of such activities on Alexandria's business and tenants, the companies and non-profit organizations in which Alexandria invests or with which Alexandria has strategic relationships and the country's mental health and suicide crisis. These forward-looking statements are based on Alexandria's present intent, beliefs or expectations, but forward-looking statements are not guaranteed to occur and may not occur. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in or implied by Alexandria's forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including, without limitation, the risks and uncertainties detailed in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and Alexandria assumes no obligation to update this information. For more discussion relating to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in Alexandria's forward-looking statements, and risks and uncertainties to Alexandria's business in general, please refer to Alexandria's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequently filed quarterly reports on Form 10-Q.

CONTACT: Courtney Mulligan, Assistant Vice President  Strategic Projects & Corporate Social Responsibility, (646) 939-7471, cmulligan@are.com

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SOURCE Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc.
Aluf Holdings Inc.

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aluf Holdings, Inc. (OTC: AHIX), a diversified holding company focused on acquiring and operating small to mid-sized businesses in the technology, artificial intelligence, and financial / business sectors, today announced that it has retained Cervitude IR, a leading investor relations and marketing firm, to assist with market awareness, investor relations, business development, and marketing efforts.



"We are excited to announce our partnership with Cervitude IR," said Sam Jakobs, CEO of Aluf Holdings. "Their expertise in investor relations and marketing will help us expand our visibility and brand recognition, as well as enhance our efforts to attract potential investors and partners. We believe that our partnership with Cervitude IR will help us Take our Business to the Next Level."

Over several quarters, the company has continued to roll up and buildout BizzUniverse, an ecosystem of SaaS portals for B2B and B2C markets. With over 100 brands operating in potentially over a dozen business sectors in the BizzUniverse Eco System, Aluf Holdings, Inc has retained Cervitude IR to develop and implement the roll-out of each brand-business-vertical.

Harold Blackwell, Partner at Cervitude IR, added, "We are thrilled to be working with Aluf Holdings, a company with a proven track record of success in acquiring and operating businesses in various sectors. Their development and work on their BizzUniverse platform is impressive to say the least. Our team is committed to supporting Aluf Holdings' growth and success through effective communication with the investment community, targeted marketing, and strategic business development."

About Aluf Holdings, Inc.

Aluf Holdings, Inc. is a diversified holding company focused on acquiring and operating small to mid-sized businesses in the technology and financial sectors. The Company's mission is to create long-term value for its shareholders by leveraging its operational expertise and financial resources to support the growth of its portfolio companies. For more information, please visit the Company's website at https://www.aluf.com.

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About Cervitude IR

Cervitude IR is a full-service investor relations and marketing firm that provides a comprehensive suite of services to publicly traded and private companies. The firm is dedicated to helping its clients achieve their strategic objectives and increase shareholder value through targeted marketing and effective communication with the investment community. For more information, please visit the firm's website at https://www.cervitude.com.

Contact:

Investor Relations

Cervitude IR

Kris@cervitude.com

203-685-0346

Media Relations

Cervitude IR

Kris@cervitude.com

203-685-0346

"Forward-looking statements" in this release involve risks and uncertainties, including economic, competitive, governmental, and technological factors outside of our control, that may cause our business, strategy, or actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.




Ankura promotes 14 professionals to Senior Managing Director across the globe

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ankura Consulting, LLC ("Ankura"), a leading global expert services and advisory firm, announced today the promotion of 14 of its professionals to Senior Managing Director, underscoring its significant global growth story and continued commitment to investing in its talented professionals that drive unparalleled results for clients.

Ankura Logo (PRNewsfoto/Ankura)

Kevin Lavin, Ankura's Chief Executive Officer, said: "I want to congratulate our newly promoted Senior Managing Directors and celebrate their tremendous accomplishment. They are an outstanding group of highly regarded practitioners with proven track records of success and are distinguished in their areas of expertise."

At Ankura, we pursue and recognize the best talent in the world to serve the diversity of our clients and the complexity of their markets.

The following Ankura professionals have been promoted to Senior Managing Director, effective immediately:

About Ankura

Ankura Consulting Group, LLC is an independent global expert services and advisory firm that delivers services and end-to-end solutions to help clients at critical inflection points related to conflict, crisis, performance, risk, strategy, and transformation. The Ankura team consists of more than 1,800 professionals serving 3,000+ clients across 55 countries who are leaders in their respective fields and areas of expertise. Collaborative Lateral Thinking That Delivers, hard-earned experience, expertise, and multidisciplinary capabilities drive results and Ankura is unrivalled in its ability to assist clients to Protect, Create, and Recover Value. For more information, please visit, ankura.com.

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SOURCE Ankura
Investment brings 500 scientific and high-tech jobs to the Greater Toronto Area

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - AstraZeneca is pleased to announce it is bringing 500 highly-skilled scientific and high-tech jobs to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in a major expansion of its research footprint in Canada. The investment will contribute to AstraZeneca's Research & Development Hub (R&D) in Mississauga, which focuses on leading global clinical studies in areas including breast, lung and prostate cancer, COVID-19, and chronic kidney disease. It also includes the creation of a new Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease Development Hub, which focuses on rare disease research.

Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease Logo (CNW Group/AstraZeneca Canada Inc.)

The decision to invest in Canada, and Ontario specifically, is a testament to the network of world-class universities, hospitals, and research centres in the GTA and southern Ontario, and the diverse scientific talent pool that exists in the region. AstraZeneca values the Ontario government's recent introduction of the province's first-ever life sciences strategy, as well as its commitment to grow the biomanufacturing footprint in the province and foster local innovation to improve healthcare. Additionally, the Federal government's Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy further strengthens Canada's position as a globally competitive player with an integrated research ecosystem focused on delivering the best of science and innovation.

"Our investment in the AstraZeneca R&D Hub and Alexion Development Hub will play a critical role in the development of new and innovative medicines aimed at treating, preventing and, in the future, potentially even curing complex diseases like cancer and rare diseases," said Kiersten Combs, President, AstraZeneca Canada. "We're pleased to see the steps that Governments at both the provincial and federal level have taken to create a more supportive environment for the biopharmaceutical industry, and although we know there is more work to do, we look forward to our continued collaboration to help improve the time for Canadian patients to access new medicines and build a more sustainable and resilient healthcare system."

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The Mississauga-based R&D Hub has doubled in size since 2019 and is currently leading more than 120 oncology and biopharmaceutical global clinical studies, involving patients in 50+ countries. From specialists in digital health and data management, to quality assurance and clinical scientists, the people filling the diverse range of new roles will all be contributing to advancing the understanding of investigational compounds that may one day become life-changing medicines for some of the most devastating conditions.

"To deliver better healthcare, it's important to invest in our public, universal system  and it's also important to continue rebuilding our biomanufacturing capacity and investing in research and development," said The Rt. Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. "That's exactly why we're here today: we're positioning Canada as a world leader in the sector, delivering better health outcomes for Canadians, and creating good jobs now and into the future."

"In order to protect Canadians' health, our government has taken every action possible to be equipped with the best tools possible. That's why we have worked closely with companies like AstraZeneca over the years," said Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada. "This investment shows that our efforts and hard work in the Canadian health sector are paying off by attracting major new investments from innovative global health leaders. We're proud to see the results of our Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy, whilst creating hundreds of well-paying jobs in Mississauga."

"I couldn't be more thrilled to welcome this investment from AstraZeneca as they reaffirm their confidence in Ontario's economy and our world-class workers," said Premier Doug Ford. "While our province and the world continue to face economic uncertainty, we're working hard to attract good-paying jobs and game changing investments from companies in a wide range of sectors including the automotive, manufacturing and life science industries."

"Mississauga could not be more thrilled that AstraZeneca has chosen to invest and grow much-needed research and development capacity in our city," said Bonnie Crombie, Mayor of Mississauga. "Mississauga is proud to be the second largest Life Sciences hub in the country, and we are invested in the growth of this sector through our dedicated Life Sciences Strategy. I would like to thank AstraZeneca for this investment that will not only create highly-skilled jobs, strengthen innovation and R&D, but save lives through global research and the development of cutting-edge treatments for rare diseases."

"Research in rare and ultra-rare diseases presents unique and significant challenges that require continuous innovation to deliver meaningful medicines for patients and their families," said Christina Archer, Vice President, Development Operations and Canadian Site Head at Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease. "This milestone investment in our Development Hub is a demonstration of our commitment to rare disease patients globally, including the 3.2 million Canadians living with a rare disease, roughly two-thirds of them children."

About AstraZeneca Canada

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business with a focus on the discovery, development, and commercialization of medicines that transform lives, with a core scientific focus in the areas of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic (CVRM) disease; Oncology; Rare Disease; Respiratory & Immunology; and Vaccine & Immune Therapies. AstraZeneca operates in more than 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.

AstraZeneca Canada employs more than 1,200 people across Canada, with the majority of its employees located at its head office and clinical research hub in Mississauga, Ontario. The company is one of Canada's leading R&D contributors, investing $135.6M in Canadian R&D in 2021. AstraZeneca was recognized for Best Workplace Culture in 2022 by the Canadian HR Awards and has been designated a Top Employer in the GTA for nine consecutive years. For more information, please visit the company's website at www.astrazeneca.ca.

About Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease

Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, is the group within AstraZeneca focused on rare diseases, created following the 2021 acquisition of Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. As a leader in rare diseases for 30 years, Alexion is focused on serving patients and families affected by rare diseases and devastating conditions through the discovery, development and commercialization of life-changing medicines. Alexion focuses its research efforts on novel molecules and targets in the complement cascade and its development efforts on haematology, nephrology, neurology, metabolic disorders, cardiology and ophthalmology. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Alexion has offices around the globe and serves patients in more than 50 countries.

Quotes

"Through Taking Life Sciences to the Next Level, Ontario's life sciences strategy, our government is building a more competitive Ontario with a stronger life sciences sector. AstraZeneca's transformative investment and new global clinical research centre will create hundreds of new jobs, while helping to ensure that our province remains a global leader in innovation and the life sciences sector. Thank you, AstraZeneca, for choosing Ontario."

 Vic Fedeli

Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

"AstraZeneca Canada's decision to significantly expand its research footprint in Canada is a perfect example of why it's critical for governments to recognize the value of the life sciences sector and implement policies that enable it to grow. This new investment in scientific and high-tech jobs will help build a skilled workforce to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the local life sciences sector and contribute to the development of medical innovations to benefit all Canadians."

 Pamela Fralick

President, Innovative Medicines Canada

"Invest Ontario congratulates AstraZeneca on this significant new investment which will drive innovation and increase the capacity for clinical trial management in Ontario. Invest Ontario is committed to attracting investments that further accelerate the growth of Life Sciences and solidify our position as a global leader in the industry."

 Trevor Dauphinee

CEO of Invest Ontario

"With cancer, chronic kidney diseases, COVID-19, and rare diseases affecting millions of people, this is a timely and important investment from AstraZeneca and Alexion. The provision of jobs and clinical studies in the aforementioned areas is a remarkable boost for life sciences in Ontario. We applaud this investment and its significant impact for the province's economy and for patients worldwide."

 Jason Field

President & CEO of Life Sciences Ontario

AstraZeneca Logo (CNW Group/AstraZeneca Canada Inc.)

SOURCE AstraZeneca Canada Inc.

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TipRanks

There are conflicting signals coming from the markets lately. We all know the accumulated headwinds; rising interest rates, the banking failures, and the Fed, in the minutes from its last FOMC meeting, indicated that a mild recession is highly likely in the second half of this year. Yet, the markets have seen sound gains year-to-date, with the S&P 500 up 7.5% and the NASDAQ an even better 15%. Looking at the current market conditions, Jeremy Siegel, a Wharton economic professor and a long-time
EDMONTON, AB, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - AutoCanada Inc. ("AutoCanada" or the "Company") (TSX: ACQ), a multi-location North American automobile dealership group, announced today that it has acquired DCCHail, a paintless dent repair ("PDR") company specializing in the insurance claim management process and repairing hail damaged vehicles, with a national presence, including Canada's largest hail repair facility in Calgary, Alberta.

AutoCanada Inc. Logo (CNW Group/AutoCanada Inc.)

"We're excited to add this well-managed hail damage repair operation to our network, providing a vertical integration opportunity that will allow us to take greater control of the repair process and expand this business across markets in Canada and the U.S. by leveraging our current dealership, parts & service and collision centre platforms," said Executive Chairman, Paul Antony. "We are also pleased to welcome the high quality DCCHail team to the AutoCanada family and we look forward to continuing its legacy into the future."

Operating for over 20 years, DCCHail is one of Canada's leading PDR service providers, specializing in insurance claim management and repairing hail damaged vehicles. DCCHail's responsive business model provides the expertise, manpower, and professionalism to manage catastrophic hail losses throughout Canada. DCCHail has revolutionized the PDR industry with its proprietary technology DCCScan. DCCScan can inspect and document automotive hail damage under an average of five seconds per scan. This greatly increases the efficiency and accuracy of the hail repair process. DCCScan integrates with DCCHail's developed PDRMAX, a unique proprietary software for processing hail estimates and managing the hail repair process. The company offers PDR services to National Insurance Partners (Direct Repair Agreements), collision centres, and auto dealerships (fleet inventory repairs). The current management team will continue to operate the business going forward. Apart from continuing to strengthen the operation's performance, the acquisition unlocks additional growth opportunities, including the potential to expand the business by leveraging AutoCanada's dealership, parts & service and collision platforms.

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Financial Highlights

The acquired company generates in excess of $15 million in annual revenue. The transaction was funded from a drawdown of the Company's credit facility and is expected to be accretive to 2023 earnings.

About AutoCanada

AutoCanada is a leading North American multi-location automobile dealership group currently operating 82 franchised dealerships, comprised of 28 brands, in eight provinces in Canada as well as a group in Illinois, USA. AutoCanada currently sells Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT, Alfa Romeo, Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Ford, Infiniti, Nissan, Hyundai, Subaru, Audi, Volkswagen, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, MINI, Volvo, Toyota, Lincoln, Acura, Honda and Porsche branded vehicles. In addition, AutoCanada's Canadian Operations segment currently operates 3 used vehicle dealerships and 1 used vehicle auction business supporting the Used Digital Retail Division, 11 RightRide division locations, and 10 stand-alone collision centres within our group of 25 collision centres. In 2021, our dealerships sold approximately 86,000 vehicles and processed over 800,000 service and collision repair orders in our 1,303 service bays generating revenue in excess of $4 billion.

Additional information about AutoCanada Inc. is available at www.sedar.com and the Company's website at www.autocan.ca.

Certain statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements and information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. We hereby provide cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "will continue", "is anticipated", "projection", "vision", "goals", "objective", "target", "schedules", "outlook", "anticipate", "expect", "estimate", "could", "should", "plan", "seek", "may", "intend", "likely", "will", "believe" and similar expressions) are not historical facts and are forward looking. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things, future operating results of the acquired business, the successful integration of the acquired business into AutoCanada's business, and the growth of the acquired business.

The forward-looking statements included in this press release are not guarantees of future performance and should not be unduly relied upon. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated and described in the forward-looking statements. These known and unknown risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: future operating results, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our operations, events that interrupt vehicle or parts supply to AutoCanada's OEMs, financial condition and liquidity and the duration of such impacts; potential changes in the regulatory and legislative environment; volatility in interest and tax rates; operating risks inherent in the automotive retail industry; and changes in general economic conditions including the capital and credit markets.

Forward-looking statements involve estimates and assumptions and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors some of which are beyond our control and difficult to predict. Accordingly, actual results or outcomes may differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. In particular, in presenting its forward-looking statements, AutoCanada has made assumptions respecting, among other things the future operating results of the acquired business, the successful integration of the acquired business into AutoCanada's platform and the growth opportunities at the acquired business.

AutoCanada cautions that the foregoing list of assumptions, risks and uncertainties is not exhaustive. The Company's Annual Information Form and other documents filed with securities regulatory authorities (accessible through the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com) describe the risks, material assumptions and other factors that could influence actual results and which are incorporated herein by reference. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof and AutoCanada assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required pursuant to applicable securities laws.

SOURCE AutoCanada Inc.

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Avante Logixx Inc.

Not for distribution to U.S. news wire services or for dissemination in the United States

The Company is debt free, has cash balances of $11 million and access to $12 million of unused credit facilities.

Third quarter year-over-year revenue growth from continuing operations of 7.2% and

Recurring Monthly Revenues improved by 7.6%.

TORONTO-Ontario, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Avante Logixx Inc. (TSX.V: XX) (OTC: ALXXF) (Avante or the Company) is pleased to announce its financial results for its third fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2022 (all amounts in Canadian dollars thousands, unless otherwise indicated).

SUMMARY FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR THE QUARTER ENDED DEC EMBER 3 1 , 20 2 2 :

Three Months Ended $ thousands unless otherwise noted Dec. 31, 2022 Sept. 30, 2022 June 30, 2022 INCOME STATEMENT INFORMATION : Q3 F23 Q2 F23 Q1 F23 RMR in the period, continuing operations (1) (3) $2,600 $2,584 $2,463 Revenues, continuing operations (1) $5,092 $4,934 $4,568 Gross profit, continuing operations (1) (3) $2,177 $1,921 $1,995 Gross profit margin, continuing operations (1) (3) 42.8% 38.9% 43.7% Adjusted EBITDA, continuing operations (1) (3) $692 $223 $565 Net loss, continuing operations (1) (2) $(269) $(427) $(230) Net Income (loss) (2) $(274) $(427) $3,505 Average Common Shares during the quarter 26,489,438 26,489,438 26,489,435 As At BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION : Dec. 31, 2022 Sept. 30, 2022 June 30, 2022 Cash balances & GIC investments (1) $11,081 $10,911 $12,085 Total funded debt as reported, IFRS $0 $0 $0 Total funded debt & lease obligations, IFRS (1) $766 $772 $724 Common Shares at period end 26,489,438 26,489,438 26,489,438

(1) The Company sold Logixx Security Inc. (Logixx Security) on June 1, 2022. Its financial results are treated as discontinued operations for the reporting periods noted above.

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(2) The net income (loss) during the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2022 reflect costs related to the Boards strategic review initiated in August 2021 and restructuring costs related to the transition of the Board and Management on March 30, 2022. The estimated gain on sale of Logixx Security is reflected in first quarter fiscal 2023s net income.

(3) Adjusted EBITDA and Recurring Monthly Revenues (RMR) are non-IFRS financial measures that have no standard meaning under IFRS and as a result may not be comparable to the calculation of similar measures by other companies. See Description of Non-IFRS Financial Measures. Reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA and RMR to Net Income or Revenues, as applicable, are provided in the Companys Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A).





Three Months Ended RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED EBITDA Dec. 31, 2022 Sept. 30, 2022 Jun. 30, 2022 Total comprehensive income (loss) from continuing operations $(269) $(427) $(230) Deferred income tax expense (recovery) 395 19 28 Interest expense 27 78 73 Depreciation and amortization 268 275 246 Amortization on capitalized commission 2 3 3 Share based payments 72 (80) (566) Reorganization and acquisition expense 197 355 972 Deferred financing fees - - 39 Adjusted EBITDA from continuing operations $692 $223 $565

We are starting to gain traction on our initiatives to increase efficiencies and re-instate our high level of service. Our clients are noticing the difference in the level of service being provided to them and are becoming our advocates through providing a significantly increased number of referrals said Manny Mounouchos, Founder, CEO & Board Chair of Avante. We continue to actively seek new opportunities to expand and enhance our services.

Added Raj Kapoor, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, I am pleased to state that the company has successfully acquired and integrated our latest acquisition while maintaining growth and liquid assets.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THIRD FISCAL QUARTER ENDED DEC EMBER 3 1 , 2022 :

Within continuing operations, the Company reported year-over-year revenue growth of 7.2%, or $341, during the third quarter of fiscal 2023, increasing to $5,092 from $4,751 for the prior fiscal year third quarter. Gross profit margins within continuing operations declined to 42.8% of revenue, versus 45.1% during the prior years third quarter, with total gross profit increasing by $34. During the third quarter of fiscal 2023, revenues increased sequentially versus Q2 of fiscal 2023 by 3.2%, or $157, and gross profit margins increased to 42.8% versus 38.9%.

The Companys recurring monthly revenues (RMR) from continuing operations during the last eight quarters are summarized below. The Avante Security segment delivered RMR of $2,600 during the third quarter of fiscal 2023, up from $2,584 during the Companys second quarter of fiscal 2023, but a year-over-year growth of 7.6% versus the $2,416 generated during the prior years third quarter. On a trailing twelve-month basis to December 31, 2022, the Companys RMR was $10,135 and total revenue was $19,533.

Gross profit margins over the last eight quarters ranged between 38.9% and 45.1%, and were 41.9% on a trailing twelve-month basis to December 31, 2022:

Avante Security F21(1) F22(1) F23(1) $thousands Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 RMR in the period $2,314 $2,372 $2,372 $2,416 $2,488 $2,463 $2,584 $2,600 Other revenue 2,339 1,657 2,066 2,335 2,450 2,105 2,352 2,492 Total revenue $4,653 $4,029 $4,438 $4,751 $4,938 $4,568 $4,935 $5,092 Total Gross Profit $1,865 $1,776 $1,842 $2,143 $2,087 $1,995 $1,921 $2,177 Gross Profit % 40.1% 44.1% 41.5% 45.1% 42.3% 43.7% 38.9% 42.8%

(1) The Companys fiscal year end is on March 31 of each year. F21 means the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021; F22 means the fiscal year ended March 31, 2022; and F23 means the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023.





SEGMENT RESULTS :

The Avante Security segment reported Adjusted EBITDA of $836 during the three-month period ended December 31, 2022, versus $723 during the second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2022. This increase of $113 was largely due to a decrease in divisional legal and consulting costs and increased revenue.

The loss in Adjusted EBITDA from central corporate costs, net of eliminations, within continuing operations was $(144) during the three-month period ending December 31, 2022. This represented an increase of $356 versus the $(500) Adjusted EBITDA net of central costs during the second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2022. The current quarterly benefits from restructuring implemented in the first and second quarters, including closing the head office.

On December 1, 2022, the Company acquired the assets of C & B Alarms Ltd. In Muskoka, Ontario. One month of revenue from the acquisition is included in the December 31, 2022 Avante Security results.

On June 1, 2022, the Company sold its ownership interest in Logixx Security. During first quarter ended June 30 2022, Discontinued Operations reflected two months of operations from the Logixx Security Segment, whereas the first quarter of the prior fiscal year reflected three months. During the first quarter ended June 30, 2022, Adjusted EBITDA of Discontinued Operations was $526, compared to $2,371 during the first quarter ended June 30, 2021, a decrease of $1,845. In addition to one less month of operations reflected this quarter, Logixx Securitys prior year quarterly period benefited more significantly from strong margins on COVID-19 related service revenues.

LIQUIDITY HIGHL IGHTS :

On June 1, 2022, all remaining funded debt of the Company was repaid from proceeds of the sale of Logixx Security. On the same date, the Company entered into amended and restated credit facilities with its bank to provide a $2 million revolving credit facility, provided on a demand basis and subject to a customary borrowing base. In January, the Company took a small draw on this credit facility.

On July 7, 2022, the Company entered into a definitive loan agreement with affiliates of its largest shareholder. This agreement permits the Company to draw term loans, on a non-revolving basis, for up to $10 million at a fixed rate of 5.0% with terms to maturity ending July 7, 2027. Drawings are subject to a minimum senior leverage test and other conditions. A standby fee on the unused portion of the facility of 0.5% is payable annually in arrears. To date, the Company has not drawn on this term loan facility.

With cash balances of $11.1 million, and access to the senior secured revolver of $2 million and to the $10 million unsecured term loan facility, the Company has excess liquidity to more than meet its existing requirements.

Readers should refer to the Companys financial statements and MD&A in respect of its third fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2022, for additional risk factors, accounting policies, detailed financial disclosures, reconciliation of non-IFRS financial measures to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measures, related party transactions, contingencies and reporting of subsequent events since the fiscal period ended December 31, 2022 Such financial statements and MD&A are incorporated by reference into this news release and are filed electronically through the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR), which can be accessed at www.sedar.com.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities described herein in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This news release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities described herein have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and such securities may not be offered or sold within the United States absent registration under U.S. federal and state securities laws or an applicable exemption from such U.S. registration requirements.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

A BOUT A VANTE L OGIXX INC. :

Avante Logixx Inc. (TSXV: XX), provides high-end security services through its wholly owned subsidiary, Avante Security Inc., serving residential customers located in Toronto and Muskoka regions of Ontario, Canada. With an experienced team, a focus on customer service excellence and development of innovative solutions, we remain committed to providing our shareholders with exceptional returns. Please visit our website at avantelogixx.com.

Emmanuel Mounouchos

Founder, CEO & Board Chair, Avante Logixx Inc.

416-923-6984

manny@avantesecurity.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain forward-looking statements (within the meaning of applicable securities laws) relating to the business of the Company and the environment in which it operates. Forward-looking statements are identified by words such as believe, anticipate, project, expect, intend, plan, will, may estimate, pro-forma and other similar expressions. These statements are based on the Companys expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections. The forward-looking statements in this news release are based on certain assumptions. They are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to control or predict. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the Companys ability to achieve the benefits expected as a result of the sale of Logixx Security Inc., anticipated growth from acquisitions, new service offerings and from development and deployment of new technologies and the list of risk factors identified in the Companys Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A), Annual Information Form (AIF) and other continuous disclosure documents available at www.sedar.com. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate as actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. Readers, therefore, should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, these forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as expressly required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any such statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

This press release includes certain measures which have not been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) such as EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Recurring Monthly Revenue (RMR). These non-IFRS measures are not recognized under IFRS and and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. Accordingly, users are cautioned that these measures should not be construed as alternatives to net income determined in accordance with IFRS. The non-IFRS measures presented are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

References to EBITDA are to net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. References to Adjusted EBITDA are to net income before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization of intangibles & capitalized commissions, share-based payments, acquisition, integration and / or reorganization costs, deferred financing costs, loss (gain) in fair value of derivative liability and expensing of fair value adjustments per IFRS. Recurring Monthly Revenues, or RMR, represent revenue during the fiscal period that benefited from contractual periodic billing to customers, typically monthly, quarterly or annually.

Management believes that Adjusted EBITDA and Recurring Monthly Revenues are appropriate additional measures for evaluating Avantes performance. Readers are cautioned that neither EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA nor Recurring Monthly Revenues should be construed as an alternative to net income or revenues (as such financial measures are determined under IFRS), as an indicator of financial performance or to cash flow from operating activities (as determined under IFRS) or as a measure of liquidity and cash flow. Avantes method of calculating EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA and Recurring Monthly Revenues may differ from methods used by other issuers and, accordingly, Avantes reported Non-IFRS measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other issuers.




VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - One of Premier Eby's first initiatives as Premier was to announce the Safer Communities Plan. B.C.'s independent convenience store owners agree there is a community safety problem and applaud the Premier for recognizing the visible and dangerous increase in criminal activities in the province.

Convenience Retailers Alliance Logo (CNW Group/Convenience Retailers Alliance)

Soon, the government will unveil a new provincial budget and retailers would like to draw the government's attention to a few important facts regarding the rise of contraband tobacco in your province in hopes Premier Eby and others take serious action.

B.C. is the worst province for Contraband Tobacco in Canada. Research shows that an estimated 30 and 50 percent of tobacco sales in the province are contraband products.

Contraband tobacco compromises community safety. Crimestoppers British Columbia has stated explicitly that the Okanagan is a hotspot for contraband tobacco. In fact, the recent incident in Vernon, B.C. where authorities seized nearly 1.5 million contraband cigarettes during a routine traffic stop demonstrates the problem precisely.

Moreover, the more recent incident in Northern B.C., where authorities seized not only contraband cigarettes but also multiple vehicles, several firearms, and thousands of dollars in cash further reinforces that this is a growing problem associated with other criminal activities that harm our communities safe.

"Independent convenience store owners and British Columbians are depending on the government to walk the talk when it comes to keeping our communities safe," says Chris Burger, owner of a Qualicum Beach store. Contraband tobacco has no place in our communities, and we hope to see a change for the better soon."

B.C. retailers are also asking the provincial government to address contraband tobacco in the upcoming 2023 provincial budget, which is set to be released this month.

Loss of sales: Every year, lawful and licensed convenience store owners lose out on millions in revenue due to the prevalence of illegal tobacco sales.





Loss of tax revenue: Illicit trade robs British Columbians of millions of dollars in provincial tax revenue that supports B.C. social programs.





Harming small businesses: Convenience store retailers in B.C. are suffering due to the inability to compete with organized crime groups.





Stronger enforcement and policies needed: Better policies are required to stop contraband tobacco from further devastating convenience retailers and B.C. communities.





B.C.'s inaction: Other provinces have acted to address the issue of contraband tobacco. It is time the B.C. government act to protect consumers, stores owners, and the safety of our communities.

Story continues

The Convenience Retailers Alliance 4 Safe Communities is an advocacy group calling for action against contraband tobacco in British Columbia.

SOURCE Convenience Retailers Alliance

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2023/27/c5068.html
TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Baylin Technologies Inc. (TSX: BYL) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that its Galtronics US subsidiary has received its first order for its multibeam antennas from the European market.

Baylin Technologies logo (CNW Group/Baylin Technologies Inc.)

The Galtronics sales team are in Barcelona this week attending Mobile World Congress, the world's largest and most influential connectivity event. Galtronics is very pleased to receive an order from this part of the world. The antennas have already been purchased by North American customers and have been very well received. Galtronics is looking to build on their favourable reception in North America by aggressively expanding sales globally.

Galtronics President, Minya Gavrilovic said, "I am thrilled with the response to the newly released Galtronics multibeam antennas which rival expensive lens-based solutions by providing lens-like beam stability at a panel antenna price point. Now more than ever, people expect high-capacity connectivity no matter where they are."

Multibeam antennas are deployed by wireless carriers for various use cases covering high-traffic and challenging locations, such as major airports as well as high-capacity venues, where the density of customer traffic requires an exceptional wireless solution.

About Baylin

Baylin is a leading diversified global technology company. The Company focuses on the research, design, development, manufacturing, and sale of passive and active radio-frequency products, satellite communications products, and supporting services.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. They are not statements of historical fact. Rather, they are disclosure regarding conditions, developments, events, or financial performance that we expect or anticipate may or will occur in the future, including, among other things, information or statements concerning our objectives and strategies to achieve those objectives, statements with respect to management's beliefs, estimates, intentions and plans, and statements concerning anticipated future circumstances, events, expectations, operations, performance, or results. Forward-looking statements can be identified generally by the use of forwardlooking terminology, such as "anticipate", "believe", "could" "should", "would", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "indicate", "intend", "likely, "may", "plan", "potential", "project", "outlook", "seek", "target", "trend" or "will", or the negative or other variations of these words or other comparable words or phrases, and are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words.

Story continues

The forward-looking statements in this press release include statements regarding the expansion of sales of our multibeam antennas into other markets. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and estimates made by us in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments, including projected growth and sales in passive and active radio frequency and terrestrial microwave products and services, and other factors we believe are appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such assumptions and estimates will prove to be correct.

Many factors could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements or future events or developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including the risk factors discussed in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form, which is available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. All the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors in this press release. There can be no assurance that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Unless required by applicable securities law, the Company does not intend and does not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

SOURCE Baylin Technologies Inc.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2023/27/c0023.html
CAIRO, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Central Business District (CBD) in Egypt's new administrative capital is a model of sustainable development and a good example of friendly cooperation between China and Egypt, according to Chinese officials and Egyptian engineers. The project, constructed by China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), has achieved the goal of sustainable development "in terms of environment and employment," said Youssry Al-Salamony, an engineer working for Dar Al-Handasah Consultants company, which is responsible for the CBD's strategic planning. The project's design has prioritized environmental and security concerns by using less energy, utilizing more local materials, and managing waste, he said on the sidelines of a conference held in Cairo on Saturday to release the CSCEC's annual report 2021-2022. To ensure sustainable development, the project has integrated smart technologies, placed a greater emphasis on using environmentally friendly energies like solar power, and built centralized units of chilled water to conserve electricity, said Ahmed Abdel Raziq, deputy manager of the New Administrative Capital Authority. Located in a desert some 50 km east of the Egyptian capital Cairo, the CBD covers an area of about 505,000 square meters and is home to dozens of commercial and residential buildings as well as supporting infrastructure. One of the most eye-catching buildings is the CSCEC-built 385.8-meter-tall Iconic Tower, which will become the highest skyscraper in Africa when it is finished. The CBD project has employed 16,000 workers and engineers, including 12,000 Egyptians and 4,000 Chinese, who have cooperated well despite language hurdles, according to CSCEC. Mahmoud Rady, deputy quality control manager of CSCEC Egypt, has been working with the company since 2020. The 30-year-old engineer said the eco-friendly technologies used in the CBD project's planning and implementation are important factors for its success. "We are committed to contributing to the modernization of our country through carrying out friendly cooperation with China," he said. The CBD project has made significant achievements in less than five years, said Ahmed Abdel Raziq, deputy manager of the New Administrative Capital Authority, adding the CSCEC's work will have a positive effect on Egypt's construction sector for years ahead. The CSCEC project has transformed the desert into a vibrant city and serves as a remarkable example of Chinese enterprises' globalization efforts, said Zhou Zhencheng, the minister counselor of the economic and commercial office at the Chinese Embassy in Cairo. Over the past four years, the Chinese construction giant has not only focused on green development and environmental protection, but also organized practical training for students and professors from more than 10 Egyptian universities, provided job opportunities for people with special needs, and worked to strengthen the people-to-people exchanges between Egypt and China, according to Zhou. Calling Egypt an important partner for China, Zhou said China is keen to further its cooperation with Egypt by importing more high-quality products as well as boosting investment and funding. "The CSCEC has introduced a model of cultural integration and localization of business," said Chang Weicai, general manager of CSCEC Egypt, adding that CSCEC's annual report has shed light on the company's social responsibility for the Egyptian society, the fruitful results of strengthening China-Egypt cooperation, and reflected the deep ties that bind the two peoples together. "We will continue our tireless efforts to promote the Egyptian-Chinese cooperation in building the Belt and Road Initiative, in realizing the Egyptian 2030 vision ... and in employing a significant number of Egyptian workers," Chang said.
(Bloomberg) -- BitFlyer Holdings Inc. co-founder Yuzo Kano plans to reinstate himself as chief executive officer of Japans biggest cryptocurrency exchange and guide it to an initial public offering, seeking to end a dispute with current management and other shareholders over control of the startup.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Kano, who owns 40% of BitFlyer and stepped aside from the top role in 2019 after a regulatory crackdown, said he will put forward his proposal at a shareholders meeting planned for next month. I will make it capable of fighting on the international stage, the 47-year-old said in an interview.

The former Goldman Sachs Group Inc. derivatives and convertible bonds trader is speaking out for the first time about returning to lead BitFlyer since a deal to sell the exchange was scrapped last year. Kano said he quashed the sale because he suspected that ACA Partners, a Singapore-based fund, was collaborating with current management to shut him out by convincing a majority of investors to accept their bid to buy BitFlyer.

They wanted to get rid of me, both as a shareholder as well as the representative of a subsidiary, Kano said.

Kano isnt currently in charge of BitFlyer, but CEO of a subsidiary called BitFlyer Blockchain Inc. Masaaki Seki, who was brought in as deputy head of risk and compliance in 2020, became president of the entire entity last year with backing from other shareholders. ACA and Seki worked together to sell BitFlyer on the cheap, according to Kano.

Hideki Hayashi, who heads the CEO office at BitFlyer, responded on behalf of Seki and declined to comment on a detailed list of questions on Kanos assertions. Hayashi added that all matters involving shareholders will be addressed at the meeting.

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BitFlyer has been embroiled in drama ever since Kano co-founded the company in 2014. In 2018, Japans Financial Services Agency ordered BitFlyer and several other crypto exchanges to adopt more stringent measures against money laundering. Kano stepped aside soon after to take responsibility.

Since then, multiple chiefs have sought to right the ship. Some of them quit after Kano pointed out their shortcomings as BitFlyers single-largest individual shareholder, he said.

Its my responsibility to point out issues and demand improvement, Kano said. I reprimand people when they cause problems, make false reports or fail to do whatever they are supposed to do.

Kano speaks with the air of a derivatives trader, confident and ready to take risks. He took a leap of faith almost a decade ago to become a cryptocurrency entrepreneur. With an active social-media presence, hes a well-known figure in Japans crypto community.

Despite the recent turbulence, BitFlyer says it has 3 million accounts, handling more Bitcoin transactions than any other in Japan. Among its rivals, Kraken has officially announced it will close down its Japan business, while Coinbase Global Inc. has said it will unwind most of its operations in the country.

Even so, Japan remains a laggard globally when it comes to crypto. Kano says he can change that, with plans to bolster BitFlyers business by introducing stablecoins, building a token-issuance operation and potentially open up its Miyabi blockchain technology to the public.

First, however, Kano needs to pull off his plan to reinstate himself as BitFlyers CEO. It might prove to be a tough sell, given that he had a key role in the turmoil surrounding the exchange over the past few years, as well as the scrapped acquisition by ACA last year.

Kano said that the fund had approached him with a proposal to buy BitFlyer that initially valued the business at 40 billion, but talks broke down after ACA declined to formally boost its offer and put it in writing, even as other potential buyers emerged and indicated they could pay more.

In April 2022, the Nikkei reported that BitFlyer had agreed to sell itself to ACA for as much as roughly 45 billion.

I was stunned, Kano said, recalling the moment he heard the news. He said he had also been led to believe that he would return to helm BitFlyer, but that any deal with ACA would have effectively ended that possibility.

Kano said he later learned that ACA had approached a group of investors holding a combined majority stake, excluding him, and convinced them to sell their stockholdings based on a 80 billion valuation for BitFlyer. There arent enough regulatory protections in Japan to prevent this kind of scenario from happening, according to Kano.

The fund indicated that Seki and current management could stay on, Kano said. The co-founder said he moved to kill the deal because management had allowed ACA to approach two different shareholder groups  one holding minority stakes and Kano himself  inappropriately. Securing a deal behind his back was also problematic because as the biggest shareholder he has the right to choose a buyer as long as its bid tops any others, Kano added.

Desperate to thwart the sale, Kano sent a tweet saying, WANTED: WHITE KNIGHT, citing the Nikkei article and inviting other potential buyers to contact him.

After Kano found other firms willing to pay more for BitFlyer and prepared to exercise his right to pick a buyer, the deal went into deadlock. I broke the deal, he said.

Akihiro Azuma, ACAs chairman, declined to comment on a detailed list of questions regarding last years developments involving the attempted acquisition of BitFlyer. We didnt present an obviously lower bid to a specific set of shareholders, he wrote in an email.

Time is running out to save BitFlyer, which has been stuck in limbo for the past few years, according to Kano. While net income jumped to 12.5 billion in 2021, a jump from the previous years 427 million, he said innovation has stopped and the exchange isnt seizing new business opportunities.

BitFlyer is becoming a company that produces nothing new, Kano said.

The timing isnt so great. Novembers unraveling of FTX has cast a pall over crypto exchanges across the globe. Cryptocurrency transactions in Japan shrank 72% last year to 30 trillion despite a more relaxed regulatory environment, according to Japan Virtual and Crypto Assets Exchange Association.

Even so, Japan is now better positioned with updated cryptocurrency regulations that BitFlyer can show as an example to other nations, according to Kano. Earlier this month, the FTXs Japanese subsidiary reopened withdrawals, making it the first of the groups businesses to return money to clients. Japan has been calling on its international counterparts to oversee crypto as strictly as they do commercial banks.

Read more: Japan Pushes Global Counterparts to Regulate Crypto Like Banks

There are very strict regulations in place now to protect customers, which can be a model for the rest of the world, Kano said.

Kano expects to win approval for his plan to return to BitFlyers helm. Thats the simplest solution, he said. Taking the company public, something no other crypto exchange in Japan has yet accomplished, is the best option for stakeholders to extricate themselves from the entire situation, with some form of remuneration.

That way, anyone can sell shares if he wants to, Kano said. Im very confident.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
BOCA RATON, Fla., February 27, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bluegreen Vacations Holding Corporation (NYSE: BVH) (OTCQX: BVHBB) ("Bluegreen Vacations," "Bluegreen," or the "Company"), a vacation ownership company, announced today the groundbreaking for the Bluegreen Mill Springs Lodge Resort in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005861/en/

Bluegreen Vacations Groundbreaking for Mill Springs Lodge Resort in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (Photo: Business Wire)

Expected to open in 2024, the new lodge-style resort is being planned to feature architecture, interior design and amenities inspired by the surrounding Smoky Mountains and to offer an elevated level of quality and finishes throughout the property. With a nod to the Arts and Crafts era, the lodge is expected to highlight native hardwoods, dormers, cultured stone facades, waterfalls, outdoor pools, fire pits and other elements reminiscent of the period. Additionally, 67 guest accommodations are planned to include three-bedroom presidential suites, two-bedroom units as well as studio-style rooms featuring upgraded cabinetry, kitchen appliances, decorative lighting and other amenities which offer owners and guests an ideal setting for comfort and relaxation.

"This region continues to be a popular destination among Bluegreens owners, and we are very excited to introduce them to this beautifully-designed resort," said Dusty Tonkin, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer of Bluegreen Vacations. "The planned design of the accommodations, along with the amenities such as the spa, are a direct response to the increasing expectations of our owners. We believe that once completed, Mill Springs Lodge will be added to the list of must-visit resorts," he added.

Mill Springs Lodge is among the three new developments being added to Bluegreens portfolio, which already includes 43 Club Resorts in iconic destinations across the United States. Bluegreen recently announced the acquisition of the Panama City Beach Resort and Spa in Panama City Beach, Florida, which has been renamed Bluegreen at Bayside Resort and Spa; as well as 46 units at the Streamside at Vail resort enclave in Vail, Colorado.

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"Bluegreen continues to focus on providing our owners with opportunities to enjoy memorable vacations with their loved ones. This includes identifying the right opportunities to expand our footprint with new resorts so that more people can experience the power of vacation," Mr. Tonkin concluded.

About Bluegreen Vacations Holding Corporation: Bluegreen Vacations Holding Corporation is a leading vacation ownership company that markets and sells vacation ownership interests and manages resorts in popular leisure and urban destinations. The Bluegreen Vacation Club is a flexible, points-based, deeded vacation ownership plan with 70 Club and Club Associate Resorts and access to nearly 11,300 other hotels and resorts through partnerships and exchange networks. The Company also offers a portfolio of comprehensive, fee-based resort management, financial, and sales and marketing services to, or on behalf of, third parties.

For further information about Bluegreen Vacations, please visit www.BluegreenVacations.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements. All opinions, forecasts, projections, future plans, and other statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the Companys control and may cause actual results or performance to differ from those set forth or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk that the Mill Springs Lodge will not be developed as currently planned or anticipated and that development may take longer than anticipated; and the risk that resort availability and inclusion into the Bluegreen Vacation Club may be delayed, is not guaranteed and is subject to meeting all applicable licensing, registration, and governmental requirements. The Company cautions that the foregoing factors are not exclusive. The reader should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement, which speaks only as of the date made.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005861/en/

Contacts

Bluegreen Vacations Contact Info:

Media and Public Relations: Marcia McLaughlin, Director, Brand & Owner Marketing

Telephone: 561-912-8115

Email: marcia.mclaughlin@bluegreenvacations.com

Bluegreen Vacations Holding Corporation Contact Info:

Investor Relations: Leo Hinkley, Managing Director, Investor Relations Officer

Telephone: 954-399-7193

Email: Leo.Hinkley@BVHcorp.com
Canada is reportedly the latest jurisdiction to ban TikTok from government-issued devices. The US federal government, multiple states and the European Union have previously prohibited their workers from using the app on official devices.

According to a note sent to Global Affairs Canada employees that was obtained by the National Post, TikTok "will be automatically removed and blocked from use on all government-issued mobile devices." The report suggests that the government will announce the policy, which is expected to be effective March 1st, on Tuesday.

"A review of the mobile applications behavior in relation to the Policy on Service and Digital found that TikToks data collection methods may leave users vulnerable to cyber attacks," the note purportedly reads. It may be the case that, similar to their counterparts in the US and EU, officials are concerned about the Chinese government gaining access to the data TikTok holds on Canadian citizens and residents. TikTok parent ByteDance is located in China, which has laws that force companies to share data with authorities when requested.

ByteDance has refuted suggestions that the Chinese government can access such data. It has claimed that Canadian user data is stored in the US and Singapore. However, it said that former employees in China and the US accessed data on American journalists, seemingly in an attempt to detect the sources of leaks from the company.

Canadas Communications Security Establishment warned earlier this month that adversary states can influence their domestic vendors to compromise products to advance their national interest, counter to Canadian clients interests and the interests of Canada, but the report didn't explicitly mention TikTok or China. The Canadian government, meanwhile, is facing scrutiny over possible Chinese interference in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections, as the National Post notes.

"We're disappointed that the Chief Information Officer of Canada has moved to block TikTok on government-issued mobile devices without citing any specific security concerns about TikTok or contacting us to discuss any concern prior to making this decision," a TikTok spokesperson told Engadget. "We are always available to meet with our government officials to discuss how we protect the privacy and security of Canadians, but singling out TikTok in this way does nothing to achieve that shared goal. All it does is prevent officials from reaching the public on a platform loved by millions of Canadians."

Engadget has contacted the Canadian government for comment.

Update 2/27 12:35PM ET: Added TikTok's statement.
CBIS

Veteran Executive Andrea Favaloro Assumes Responsibilities for CBIS Global

CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Christian Brothers Investment Services, Inc. (CBIS), a leading investment management firm and Registered Investment Advisor to Catholic investors around the world, today announced that Andrea Favaloro has agreed to serve as President of CBIS Global.



Mr. Favaloro, who most recently served as Chief Business Officer for Tokyo-based Asset Management One International, is assuming his new role following Alessandro Lombardis planned departure.

A long-time veteran of the financial industry, Mr. Favaloro has served in executive roles with Generali Group, Paris, BNP Paribas Asset Management, Paris, and Fortis Investments, Milan.

He will report to Jeffrey McCroy, President and CEO of CBIS, from CBIS Globals office in the Generalate of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in Rome. The firm also maintains a regional office in Spain.

Gradual and thoughtful transition of executive leadership is always a challenge, says Mr. McCroy, which is why we spent so much time searching for someone with the right combination of skills and excitement for Catholic investing to lead CBIS Global. Were convinced weve found that leader in Mr. Favaloro.

CBIS Global offers a series of sub-advised investment funds  the CBIS Global Funds  that rely on the principles of the CBIS Catholic Responsible Investments approach. From its inception, the firm has worked exclusively with Catholic investors.

According to Brother Martin Rocha Pedrajo, FSC, CBIS Board member and General Bursar of the Institute for the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Mr. Favaloro is well-equipped to further CBIS mission to serve the greatest number of Catholic investors looking to transform the world.

Given our rich history of attracting people of strong character and keen ability, Im not surprised to see Andrea accept this challenge, says Brother Martin. Beyond his obvious skill, I have to think his excitement for Catholic investing will help CBIS Global to reach a larger audience.

Story continues

At year end, CBIS represented $9.2 billion in assets under management. The firm has indicated it seeks to build out its CBIS Global product offering, including the development of solutions-based products similar to its CRI Magnus Funds but targeted to non-U.S. investors.

As CBIS strives to serve the greatest number of Catholic investors looking to transform the world, the whole of the company must be greater than the sum of its parts, says Mr. Favaloro. We have great opportunity at CBIS Global to build on all the work that has gone before, and I look forward to the day when CBIS combined businesses are serving a much larger universe of the Catholic faithful.

For more information on CBIS Global, including fund objectives and performance, visit cbisonline.com/eu/.

About CBIS

Christian Brothers Investment Services, Inc. is a Catholic, socially responsible investment management firm and Registered Investment Advisor. A trusted partner to Catholic investors around the world, the firm relies on its unique Catholic Responsible Investments to provide Catholic investors sound financial returns while remaining faithful to the moral and social teachings of the Church. Founded in 1981 by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, CBIS engages third-party institutional investment firms to actively sub-advise its portfolios. As of 12/31/2022, the firm was responsible for the management of $9.2 billion in assets. Headquartered in Chicago, CBIS has offices in Rome and Madrid. For more information, visit cbisonline.com, or call 877-550-224.




Veteran Executive Andrea Favaloro Assumes Responsibilities for CBIS Global

CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Christian Brothers Investment Services, Inc. (CBIS), a leading investment management firm and Registered Investment Advisor to Catholic investors around the world, today announced that Andrea Favaloro has agreed to serve as President of CBIS Global.

CBIS www.cbisonline.com (PRNewsfoto/CBIS)

Mr. Favaloro, who most recently served as Chief Business Officer for Tokyo-based Asset Management One International, is assuming his new role following Alessandro Lombardi's planned departure.

A long-time veteran of the financial industry, Mr. Favaloro has served in executive roles with Generali Group, Paris, BNP Paribas Asset Management, Paris, and Fortis Investments, Milan.

He will report to Jeffrey McCroy, President and CEO of CBIS, from CBIS Global's office in the Generalate of the Brothers of the Christian Schools in Rome. The firm also maintains a regional office in Spain.

"Gradual and thoughtful transition of executive leadership is always a challenge," says Mr. McCroy, "which is why we spent so much time searching for someone with the right combination of skills and excitement for Catholic investing to lead CBIS Global. We're convinced we've found that leader in Mr. Favaloro."

CBIS Global offers a series of sub-advised investment funds  the CBIS Global Funds  that rely on the principles of the CBIS Catholic Responsible Investments approach. From its inception, the firm has worked exclusively with Catholic investors.

According to Brother Martin Rocha Pedrajo, FSC, CBIS Board member and General Bursar of the Institute for the Brothers of the Christian Schools, Mr. Favaloro is well-equipped to further CBIS' mission to serve the greatest number of Catholic investors looking to transform the world.

"Given our rich history of attracting people of strong character and keen ability, I'm not surprised to see Andrea accept this challenge," says Brother Martin. "Beyond his obvious skill, I have to think his excitement for Catholic investing will help CBIS Global to reach a larger audience."

Story continues

At year end, CBIS represented $9.2 billion in assets under management. The firm has indicated it seeks to build out its CBIS Global product offering, including the development of solutions-based products similar to its CRI Magnus Funds but targeted to non-U.S. investors.

"As CBIS strives to serve the greatest number of Catholic investors looking to transform the world, the whole of the company must be greater than the sum of its parts," says Mr. Favaloro. "We have great opportunity at CBIS Global to build on all the work that has gone before, and I look forward to the day when CBIS' combined businesses are serving a much larger universe of the Catholic faithful."

For more information on CBIS Global, including fund objectives and performance, visit cbisonline.com/eu/.

About CBIS

Christian Brothers Investment Services, Inc. is a Catholic, socially responsible investment management firm and Registered Investment Advisor. A trusted partner to Catholic investors around the world, the firm relies on its unique Catholic Responsible Investments to provide Catholic investors sound financial returns while remaining faithful to the moral and social teachings of the Church. Founded in 1981 by the De La Salle Christian Brothers, CBIS engages third-party institutional investment firms to actively sub-advise its portfolios. As of 12/31/2022, the firm was responsible for the management of $9.2 billion in assets. Headquartered in Chicago, CBIS has offices in Rome and Madrid. For more information, visit cbisonline.com, or call 877-550-224.

Contact:

Sarah McClain

877-550-2247

info@cbisonline.com

Communications Strategy Group

303-228-1735

cbis@wearecsg.com

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SOURCE CBIS
(Bloomberg) --

Most Read from Bloomberg

Chinas lithium industry is reeling as its top production hub  responsible for around a 10th of the worlds supply  faces sweeping closures amid a government probe of environmental infringements.

The crackdown in Yichun, Jiangxi province, follows a local lithium frenzy over the past year as miners raced to feed rampant demand for the battery material  and to benefit from record global prices. Now, theyre grappling with a close-up inspection by environment officials sent from Beijing.

Ore-processing operations in Yichun have been ordered to stop as investigators probe alleged violations at lithium mines, Yicai newspaper reported. That threatens somewhere between 8% and 13% of global supply, according to various analyst estimates, although its unclear for how long the immediate shutdowns will last.

The probe in China injects a big dose of uncertainty into a lithium market thats seeing prices cool  bringing some relief to EV manufacturers  as more global output emerges. Jiangxi province was expected to be a major source of extra supply, from a lithium-bearing mineral known as lepidolite.

This supervision may mean that the inspection and control over lepidolite mining in China will be more stringent in the future, said Susan Zou, analyst at Rystad Energy.

Companies with operations in Yichun include major battery manufacturers Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. and Gotion High-Tech Co., whose shares both fell more than 1% on Monday. Neither firm responded to calls and emails for comment.

Mining Boom

All lepidolite mining in Yichun aside from those by a state-owned company have been suspended, but refineries are still operational, Dennis Ip and Leo Ho, analysts at Daiwa Capital Markets, said.

Story continues

Global lithium prices soared to a record high last year as demand from Chinas booming electric-vehicle industry outstripped production. Its the kind of high-profit, high-demand environment that typically encourages miners to skirt regulations in any commodity market.

How a Battery Metals Squeeze Puts EV Future at Risk: QuickTake

Some companies had already been targeted for infringements, including incidents of pollution, over the past year. This is a much wider crackdown, and involves officials from central government departments including the Ministry of Natural Resources.

Healthy Development

The Beijing officials will mainly look at violations at lithium mines and seek to guide the healthy development of the industry, according to the Yicai report. It will largely target those mining without permits or with expired licenses, it said.

According to Goldman Sachs Group Inc., the Chinese car industrys demand for lithium has fallen by more than half in recent months, a dramatic reversal that will drive a further slump in the market. Prices in China have dropped more than 30% from last years peak.

A month-long mining halt in Yichun would reduce lithium output by an amount equivalent to around 13% of the worlds total, analysts including Bai Junfei at Citic Securities Co. wrote in a note on Monday. Rystad Energy, a consultancy, estimated the amount at 8%.

At present, the market speculation is that the probe may stop after the two sessions in China next month, Rystads Zou said, referring to the annual parliamentary meetings due early March.

How China Aims to Rejig Economy as Top Lawmakers Meet: QuickTake

Lithium Shares

Lithium producers in North America gained Monday morning, with Albemarle Corp. rising as much as 2.9% and Livent Corp. advancing 2.6%.

Analysts said the shutdown of the lithium production hub in China may do little to help prices of the metal rebound from a recent decline, at least in the near term.

Any mine would typically have a stockpile of ore in place, so as long as the refineries are operating, you arent likely to see any whipsaw in lithium pricing, said Chris Berry, president of House Mountain Partners, an industry consultancy. Should these mines be halted for months, then this becomes a different story.

--With assistance from Alfred Cang and Jason Rogers.

(Updates with lithium shares and analyst comments in last three paragraphs.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas state-run media frequently touts the countrys major achievements and grand ambitions in outer space, including its space station and planned research outpost on the moon.

Most Read from Bloomberg

But theres one thing it tends not to mention: Russia, its closest partner in space.

When Beijing and Moscow announced plans in 2021 for a joint lunar project, it looked like a powerful alliance, matching Chinas technological prowess with deep Russian experience in space, dating back to the original moon race. Yet even before Russias war in Ukraine, there were doubts about what Moscow could offer Beijing.

Russia is still one of the biggest players in space, but if you look at the trajectory of that program, its really been declining in terms of budget, personnel and capabilities, said Mariel Borowitz, a space policy expert and associate professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta.

Since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine a year ago, China has downplayed talk of a Beijing-Moscow space axis, even while its diplomats say relations between the two nations are solid. Chinese representatives at Septembers International Astronautical Congress in Paris didnt talk about Russia when discussing the lunar project, and Russia is often left out of Chinese media reports about Beijings space program.

NASA Speeds Up Quest to Beat China to Mining Metals on the Moon

They are de-emphasizing Russias role, said Borowitz.

A possible visit by Yury Borisov, head of Russias space program, to China as soon as this week is unlikely to change that trajectory. Borisov told Russian media in December that the nations had a new space agreement  a statement Chinese authorities havent confirmed  but Beijing has shown it can achieve many of its goals, including an orbiting space station, on its own.

Story continues

Chinas space program has mostly caught up with, if not surpassed, Russia, said He Qisong, a professor at the East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai. For cooperation, such as the one in the joint lunar research station, the symbolism is greater than the practical value.

Where Beijing is noticing the absence of a powerful ally, however, is in pushing back against US dominance.

In the competition to return people to the moon, NASA got a head start in November with the launch of an uncrewed capsule into lunar orbit. That was the first mission in a US program to land astronauts on the lunar surface by as early as 2025, a timeline that many see as ambitious.

China hasnt disclosed a timetable for its plans to send people to the moon. In the foreseeable future, we will send the Chinese to step on the moon, Zhou Jianping, chief designer of the China Manned Space Program, said in a Feb. 25 interview with state media, without giving a more detailed timeline.

This Is the Space Station China is Building to Challenge the US

China also is trying to catch up in deploying satellites to orbit Earth.

For now, however, China has sought to use its space program as a soft-power tool to compete with the US, one reason Beijing and Moscows planned International Lunar Research Station  touted as promoting humanitys exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes  was opened to other countries.

But while nearly two dozen countries have signed up for the Artemis Accords, a US-led plan to set the rules for activities in space  including lunar stations  no country has joined China and Russia for the ILRS.

The divide is widely seen by space experts as signaling a disagreement over who will set the rules and standards for future exploration. Among the nations joining the Artemis Accords in recent months are Nigeria and Rwanda  the first African countries to do so. Their move is a political blow to Chinas efforts to sew up diplomatic support from African countries.

Chinese Rocket Launches Astronauts to Operate New Space Station

Another setback came in January, when the head of the European Space Agency said the 22-member group has no plans for its astronauts to travel to Chinas recently completed space station, backing away from an agreement signed in 2015. Cooperation continues, however, on a satellite to study solar winds.

Theres this competing narrative between China and the US, and at the moment the US has a lot more willing partners than China has, said Mark Hilborne, a lecturer in the Defence Studies department of Kings College London.

Officials at the Chinese and Russian space agencies didnt respond to requests for comment.

Theres little doubt about how Russias space program has been diminished by the war in Ukraine. The conflict cost the space agency Roscosmos its partnership with the European Space Agency, which in April called off cooperation on several lunar missions and suspended a project to send a spacecraft to Mars.

Russia also lost business from OneWeb Ltd.  backed by the UK government, Indian telecom group Bharti and Japans SoftBank Group Corp.  after the London-based satellite company last March suspended all launches from a Russian-controlled launchpad.

For all its problems, Russias space program isnt dead. Roscosmos last week announced plans to send a probe to the moon in July. And Russian and American astronauts continue to work together aboard the International Space Station. But Russia has said it will quit the ISS after 2024, and the station is set to be retired at the end of the decade.

The isolation of the Russian space program highlights the need for China to find more partners at a time when countries are preparing for a new era of commercial space activity. If Chinas only space partner is Russia, Beijing may be hard-pressed to resist US efforts to set the rules for the emerging space economy.

China has had some success courting other would-be partners. During a trip to Saudi Arabia in December, President Xi Jinping welcomed having astronauts from the kingdom and other Gulf nations travel to Chinas space station. The space agencies of China and the United Arab Emirates will work on joint projects, including a lunar rover, the two sides announced in September.

In addition, a company based in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen in January signed a preliminary agreement with Djibouti to build a spaceport in the East African country that will have seven satellite launch pads and three rocket testing pads.

Even a weaker Russian space program could still provide benefits to China. For instance, the two countries have agreed to cooperate on space-based sensors for satellites to detect ballistic and hypersonic missiles, said Hilborne, of Kings College.

Russia is probably further ahead in how to use and operationalize the technology, he said, adding that Chinas surveillance operations in space are far more important to Beijing than spy balloons like the alleged one shot down by the US Air Force on Feb. 4. China says that balloon was a weather craft blown off course.

China Slams NASA Chief as Race to the Moon Gets Heated

Borisov, who took over at Roscosmos last year, has vowed to revive Russias program, though the country is now a distant third in terms of satellite production.

Even with Chinese help, Russias ability to support its space program, particularly with no end in sight to the war in Ukraine, will remain in doubt. And like its other areas of cooperation with China  from trade to technology  Russia is increasingly a junior partner.

The Russians cannot sustain their own lunar program, said Florian Vidal, a research fellow at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, whos written about Russias space program. China is the leader.

--With assistance from Robert Fenner.

(Adds additional info on the US and China moon plans starting in 10th paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Large Reinvestments Postponed in 2022 But Appetite for Reinvestment Remains High

GUANGZHOU, China, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Chamber of Commerce in South China (AmCham South China) today released its 2023 White Paper on the Business Environment in China and 2023 Special Report on the State of Business in South China. The release was attended by over 200 government officials, business executives and members of media including over 40 foreign consulates mostly represented by their consuls general. Both publications can be downloaded free of charge from http://www.amcham-southchina.com/amcham/static/publications/publications.jsp

The 481 page bilingual White Paper on the Business Environment in China, now in its 16th year, is a well-structured and extensively-researched volume which presents a multifaceted and unbiased account of the business environment in China. The 141 page bilingual Special Report on the State of the Business in South China, our 19th such endeavor, provides a comprehensive and quantitative analysis of the business community and valuable insights into the development trends in South China. This year 210 companies were studied. It is important to note that the gathering of the study data was completed by December 15th, 2022, shortly before China ended its zero COVID policy. Therefore, the study data has not been impacted by immediate emotional impact of the policy change. The Chamber plans on conducting a mid-year study to determine the accurate and actual impact of the policy change. Both publications are researched and produced independently by AmCham South China and do not represent the opinions of the US or any other government or organization. AmCham South China does not receive any funds from any government in the production of these publications.

Over the past three years, the relentless pandemic put China through the wringer, but even with the zero-tolerance pandemic policy, in 2022 the country realized surprising achievements amid pervasive uncertainty and instability. In 2022, China's GDP growth stood at 3% year-on-year, a slowdown from 8.4% in 2021. At the same time, its trade surplus swelled to a record US$877.6 billion, with exports showing a 7% increase from 2021 to US$3.95 trillion despite weakening U.S. and European demand and draconian pandemic control measures. FDI into the world's second-largest country, in actual use, expanded 8% year-on-year to US$189.13 billion. Dr. Harley Seyedin, President of AmCham South China, winner of 2017 Oslo Business for Peace Award (together with Elon Musk, Durreen Shahnaz and Murad Al-Katib), which is awarded by an Award Committee of Nobel Laureates in Peace and Economics, said, "The COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a severe but temporary blow to China's economy. With the elimination of the zero-tolerance policy and further opening up, the country is now headed towards recovery and will unleash substantial economic vitality greater and sooner than expected. Our studies released today, show that China's economy will be a crucial locomotive in promoting global economic growth in 2023."

Story continues

According to the 2023 Special Report on the State of Business in South China, up to 97% of the companies report their operations have been impacted by visa and travel restrictions induced by COVID-19. Among them, 65% cancelled international events and meetings in China, 61% cancelled all international business travel, and 29% have had to suspend their investment projects. It is important to note that companies are cautious about high-volume reinvestments (more than US$250 million) but their appetite for exploring the Chinese market remains strong. 75% of the companies plan to reinvest in China in 2023 and they have set aside a whopping US$18.3 billion in cash for reinvestment over the next three to five years. "China's reopening will allow expatriate expert builders to return to China and help make investment projects now on hold, a reality," said Dr. Harley Seyedin.

Key Takeaways of the 2023 White Paper on the Business Environment in China and the 2023 Special Report on the State of Business in South China:

Albeit a moderate decrease in the proportion of companies reporting to have increased headcount in 2022, most companies are upbeat about their employment expansion plans, with 44% of them planning to augment their headcount significantly or slightly in 2023.

More than half of the participating companies gained over 30% of their global revenue from China, an increase of 4%. 45% of the participating companies registered a significant or slight increase in their revenue from China, including 43% of American companies and 49% of manufacturing companies.

Companies' profitability shows signs of improvement in 2022. 88% of the participating companies are reported to have gained profits in China, an increase of 6%. Up to 90% of American companies have achieved profitability. Moreover, 54% of those who are profitable in China reported to have met their budget expectations.

There is a greater sense of optimism among the participating companies towards their expected time to reach profitability. A vast majority of them expect to attain profitability within two years, while only 4% believe that it will take over six years to reach that goal, three times less than that of a year earlier.

China is believed to enjoy a high return on investment (ROI) with 76% of the participating companies reporting a positive overall ROI in China. 49% of the companies consider their overall ROI in China to be higher than their global overall ROI.

Although the confidence of American companies in the business outlook in China oscillates to some extent, over 50% of them still stay sanguine about the Chinese market.

China is still deemed as the most attractive destination for investment. More than 90% of the participating companies select China as one of the most important investment destinations. Although the proportion of foreign companies that regard China as the first choice for investment has declined for the second consecutive year, more than 50% still list China as the top three investment destinations.

The investment enthusiasm of companies is on an upward trajectory, with four-fifths of companies that actually reinvested in China in 2022.

Compared with the past year, more companies chose to reinvest less than US$250 million in China in 2022. However, companies are cautious about large investments. Specifically, while 10% of the companies had each budgeted to reinvest US$250 million or more in China in 2022, only 5% actually reinvested that amount in the same year. But American companies and companies engaged in consumption products and services take an optimistic view of very large reinvestment projects, accounting for the highest proportion and reaching 7% and 8% respectively.

In 2022, 74% of the participating companies chose not to shift their investments out of China. Not a single company has intention to leave China entirely.

Most companies still consider China as a critical part in their future strategic development plans. 75% of the participating companies plan to reinvest in China in 2023, including 68% of American companies that are determined to dig deeper into the Chinese market.

It is estimated that companies will reserve US$18.3 billion from profits for reinvestment in China in 2023 and the next three to five years, a sharp fall of approximately 30.98% compared with the previous year.

Companies are slowing down their business expansion in China, with 3% fewer companies (69%) planning to expand over the next three years.

Guangzhou has been recognized as the top preferred investment destination in China six years in a row, followed by Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Beijing.

Research this year reveals a trace of pessimism over the business environment in South China. 9% fewer companies rate the business environment as "excellent" or "good" while 11% more companies see a deterioration in the business environment. Rising operation costs and rising labor costs are identified as the two biggest challenges that companies face in South China in 2022.

The trade volume between US and China hit a new record high of US$690.6 billion in 2022. Less than 30% of the companies are bullish about the bilateral relationship in 2023, a drop of 13%. 8% fewer Chinese companies (32%) are upbeat about the future ties while 26% more American companies (44%) express their pessimism.

White Paper on the Business Environment in China and Special Report on the State of Business in South China

The White Paper on the Business Environment in China offers a summary of China's impressive accomplishments since China's "opening-up" and examines the key influences on the business environment in present-day China, such as national policy initiatives and the global economic crisis.

The Special Report on the State of Business in South China is a quantitative study of the business environment, conducted for consecutive years by AmCham South China. Each year, AmCham's member and non-member companies participate in AmCham's State of Business study, results of which will be garnered and edited into a separate publication.

Both documents can be downloaded free of charge from the chamber's website at http://www.amcham-southchina.com/amcham/static/publications/publications.jsp

About the American Chamber of Commerce in South China

The American Chamber of Commerce in South China (AmCham South China) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to facilitating bilateral trade between the United States and the People's Republic of China. Accredited in 1995 by the US Chamber of Commerce in Washington DC, AmCham South China represents more than 2,300 corporate and individual members, is governed by a fully-independent Board of Governors elected from its membership, and provides dynamic, on-the-ground support for American and international companies doing business in South China. Over the past decade, AmCham South China has hosted on average each year more than 10,000 business executives and government leaders from around the world at its briefings, seminars, committee meetings and social gatherings. All AmChams in China are independently governed and represent member companies in their respective regions.

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SOURCE The American Chamber of Commerce in South China
TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - CIBC (TSX: CM) (NYSE: CM) today announced its intention to redeem all $1.5 billion of its 3.45% Debentures due April 4, 2028 (Non-Viability Contingent Capital (NVCC)) (subordinated indebtedness) (the "Debentures"). In accordance with their terms, the Debentures will be redeemed at 100% of their principal amount on April 4, 2023, together with accrued and unpaid interest up to but excluding the redemption date. Interest on the Debentures will cease to accrue from and after the redemption date.

CIBC Logo (CNW Group/CIBC)

The redemption will be financed out of the general corporate funds of CIBC. Notice will be delivered to registered holders of the Debentures in accordance with the terms outlined in the prospectus supplement for the Debentures.

About CIBC

CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with 13 million personal banking, business, public sector and institutional clients. Across Personal and Business Banking, Commercial Banking and Wealth Management, and Capital Markets businesses, CIBC offers a full range of advice, solutions and services through its leading digital banking network, and locations across Canada with offices in the United States and around the world. Ongoing news releases and more information about CIBC can be found at www.cibc.com/en/about-cibc/media-centre.html.

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weavix platform with Private Wireless

weavix platform with Private Wireless

WICHITA, Kan., Feb. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, weavix announced a collaboration with Microsoft that expands its capabilities to leverage the newest edge-to-cloud connectivity and platform services from Microsoft. weavix, a leading software platform for frontline communication and productivity, will utilize Microsoft Azure, and Azure private MEC, and begin exploring the use of Azure Space satcom technologies to deliver its full suite of enterprise vital applications.

"Our Internet of Workers [IoW] platform pairs a streamlined collaboration suite with reliable productivity tools and software that's suitable for the frontline workplace," said Blake Carlson, Chief Operating Officer at weavix. "Microsoft's infrastructure, solutions and integrations provide the ubiquitous connectivity critical in enabling weavix to best deliver vital applications to enterprises globally. This collaboration with Microsoft significantly advances our mutual objective of serving a new and historically underserved market - the frontline workforce."

This effort strategically positions Azure private MEC as the epicenter of private wireless and the Internet of Workers platform. Together, these solutions enable low latency, reliable coverage and high-performance connectivity for enterprises to effectively streamline productivity and collaboration on the frontline.

Advanced Connectivity with Azure private MEC and Azure Space

Azure private MEC offers edge platform and private networking options that enable weavix to deliver its enterprise-vital solutions. With services ranging from cloud-managed container platform, and advanced communications to productivity insights, Azure private MEC supports the Internet of Workers platform with enhanced security and dependability.

"To maintain their competitive advantage, enterprises worldwide must grow the productivity and maintain the safety of their frontline workers, often in poorly connected environments," said Shawn Hakl, VP of Product Management, Azure for Operators. "The breadth of weavix' s innovative suite of applications combined with the ubiquitous connectivity of Azure private MEC delivers enterprises a frontline communications tool that is easy to procure, deploy and manage. We anticipate weavix's progressiveness in exploring satcom technologies to deliver an even wider range of connectivity options in disparate work environments will further accelerate their innovations and market positioning as a leading Modern Connected App for Industry 4.0 scenarios in multiple industry verticals."

Story continues

weavix joined Microsoft's Independent Software Vendor (ISV) program for Azure private MEC to rigorously test its software in a variety of cloud-based and MEC environments and rapidly develop new innovations and features within its platform. The program is designed to empower industry solutions with Azure private MEC to unlock the power of 5G for enterprises. Right now, Microsoft and weavix are rapidly testing compatibility to expand connectivity options with Azure Space. This includes satellite communications optimized for scenarios when cloud terrestrial connectivity is limited or unstable, such as in remote or offshore sites.

Azure Space is positioned to revolutionize wireless deployment and satellite-enabled private cellular LTE which, with weavix interoperability, would unlock new doors in enterprise-grade connectivity for frontline workers to increase productivity and communicate effectively anytime and anywhere.

Powered by Microsoft Azure

The data insights, collaboration tools and productivity solutions provided by weavix use Microsoft Azure. Microsoft's deep portfolio of tools and cloud storage creates an accessible nesting area for data collected from weavix.

"weavix leverages Microsoft Azure to provide a suitable environment that powers both the communications stack and data consumption capabilities for our Internet of Workers platform," said Ben Burrus, Chief Product Officer at weavix. "The cognitive services available make it easy to implement core digital transformation principles to a frontline work environment so these workers can feel empowered, and enterprises can experience higher productivity levels across the board. This collaboration allows weavix to take full advantage of these capabilities and more that cloud computing has to offer."

Location and communications data from weavix can be readily accessed by users and executives through Workforce Diagnostics. Enterprises have applied the insights gleaned from weavix to transform a variety of business functions.

Visit the Microsoft booth at the 2023 Mobile World Congress trade show in Barcelona to learn more about this collaboration.

About weavix

weavix, the Internet of Workers platform, revolutionizes frontline communication and productivity on a global scale. Since its founding, weavix has shaped the future of work by introducing innovative methods to better connect and empower the frontline workforce, like Enterprise-Vital Push-to-Three (EVPT3) communication. weavix transforms enterprise by providing data-driven insights into facilities and teams to maximize productivity and achieve breakthrough results. weavix is the single source of truth for both workers and executives. Our mission is to empower workers around the world with disruptive technology. Visit https://weavix.com/ for more information.

Contact Information:

Justin Nickel

Chief Marketing Officer, weavix

jnickel@weavix.com

3168662955 ext. 533



Monica Poe

Marketing Director, weavix

mpoe@weavix.com

3165195912



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Image 1: weavix platform with Private Wireless





The walt smart radio, mobile app and web console showing the full Internet of Workers platform using private wireless.









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At 6:15 one Friday morning, He Peng stood in line at Zhuozhou East Railway Station in Zhuozhou, Hebei province. The 43-year-old was on his way to Beijing for work. His train leaves at 6:23 and arrives at Beijing West Railway Station 24 minutes later. "Such an early high-speed train is really convenient for my daily commute," he said. He has commuted for 10 years, but it was only after trains for intercity commuters went into operation in July last year that he started to feel the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is benefiting ordinary people like him. This year is the 9th anniversary of the initiation of a key strategy to coordinate the development of Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei province  a regional urban economic cluster in North China. Over the past nine years, coordination of the region has yielded remarkable results, especially in terms of traffic integration, economic development, industrial upgrading and environmental improvement. By the end of last year, there were 10,848 kilometers of railway lines in operation in the region, up 38.3 percent from 2014, according to the Beijing Bureau of Statistics. From major cities within a 300-km radius of the capital, including Tianjin, Shijiazhuang and Baoding, Beijing can be reached via high-speed train in under 1.5 hours. From Tianjin to Beijing, there will be four high-speed lines to choose from this year, according to the Tianjin Transportation Commission. "Transportation has created a solid foundation for the region's coordinated development," said Zhao Tongan, deputy head of the Hebei Provincial Department of Transport. The core areas of Beijing, Tianjin and the Xiong'an New Area  a new economic area in Hebei  are accessible each within half an hour, he said. One prominent task of the integration strategy is to transfer nonessential capital functions out of Beijing to help treat urban ills like traffic jams. Last year, Tianjin received an investment of 198 billion yuan ($28.6 billion) from Beijing and Hebei, while some 4,000 companies and institutions from Beijing and Tianjin resettled in Hebei, the Beijing Bureau of Statistics reported. Since 2014, some 40,000 business units have resettled to the province, mainly from the capital. Efforts to promote industrial transfers have also contributed to the region's booming economy. The Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region had a combined GDP of 10 trillion yuan last year, with Beijing and Hebei accounting for 4.2 trillion yuan each, and Tianjin 1.6 trillion yuan. The coordinated development of the region has also created a better environment for its inhabitants. Data showed that the annual PM2.5 density  a major gauge of air pollution  decreased by 60 percent between 2013 and 2022 in Hebei, according to the province's department of ecology and environment. "I've been able to see more blue sky at home in recent years. That's a really good thing because it makes us happier," said Wang Ruchun, a photographer from Shijiazhuang who has been taking daily photos to record air quality since 2014.
SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

SkyQuest's research report on the computer aided manufacturing (CAM) market is an invaluable resource for individuals and organizations seeking to understand the market's dynamics thoroughly. In addition, investors and market participants can benefit greatly from this report by comprehensively understanding the CAM market's growth potential and identifying key investment opportunities.

Westford, USA,, Feb. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The computer aided manufacturing (CAM) market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with North America leading the way, followed closely by the Asia Pacific region. One of the driving factors behind this growth is the increased need for automation technology in industrial facilities. Computer-aided manufacturing systems have become essential in optimizing the manufacturing process by reducing errors and improving efficiency. Increasing investment in research and development initiatives to innovate with technology is necessary to maintain this growth pace. The CAM industry must continuously improve its technology to meet the market's demands. This innovation will also aid in developing new and improved manufacturing techniques, leading to more efficient and cost-effective production methods.

According to SkyQuest, it is projected that by 2025, the number of IoT-connected devices will reach an astonishing 60 billion globally. The rise of IoT has revolutionized how devices and machines communicate, providing manufacturers with new opportunities to optimize their manufacturing processes. CAM technologies, designed to automate and streamline manufacturing processes, are well-positioned to take advantage of this trend.

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Browse in-depth TOC on "Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Market"

Pages - 282

Tables - 90

Figures - 72

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is a modern manufacturing process that leverages technology to automate various processes in different industries, including automotive, industrial usage, and aerospace. It uses computer-controlled machines to produce parts and products with high precision and accuracy. CAM technology involves software programs that generate machine instructions to create products or parts.

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Prominent Players in Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Market

3d Systems Inc. (US)

ZWCAD Software Co. Ltd. (China)

Vero Software (UK)

Ansys Inc. (US)

Hexagon AB (Sweden)

Autodesk Inc. (US)

Bobcad-cam Inc. (US)

Zauba Crop. (India)

Camnetics Inc. (US)

SolidCAM GMBH (Germany)

CAMWorks Inc. (US)

Dassault systems (France)

CNC Software Inc. (US)

Microsoft Corporation (US)

GRZ Software LLC (US)

Siemens AG (Germany)

Cloud Deployment Segment to Attract Larger Consumer Base as It Eases Accessibility and Affordability of Advanced CAM Software for SMEs

The computer aided manufacturing (CAM) market has witnessed a significant surge in growth in the cloud deployment segment in 2021. This trend is expected to continue until 2028, driven by technological advancements and the emergence of the 5G network. Cloud deployment has become increasingly popular in the CAM industry due to its flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. With cloud-based CAM solutions, manufacturers can easily access and utilize tools and applications without investing in expensive hardware or software licenses. Additionally, cloud deployment allows for real-time collaboration and data sharing, which can improve efficiency and productivity.

According to the latest market research report, North America has dominated the global computer aided manufacturing (CAM) market in 2021 and is expected to maintain its lead during the forecast period. The region's strong performance is attributed to the increased investment in software design and engineering in the US infrastructure industry, which has fueled demand for computer-aided manufacturing. Furthermore, the US infrastructure industry is experiencing significant investment and development, driving the demand for computer-aided manufacturing.

Browse summary of the report and Complete Table of Contents (ToC):

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Aerospace & Defense Segment to Exhibit High Growth as CAM Solutions Fulfills the Need for Precision in Manufacturing of Aircraft and Defense Components

According to recent market research, the aerospace and defense industry segment has held the largest share of the computer aided manufacturing (CAM) market in 2021. Furthermore, it is expected to continue its dominance in the coming years. This can be attributed to the significant advancements in computer-aided manufacturing software within the aerospace industry. Another advantage of CAM software is its ability to enhance material usage. As a result, manufacturers can optimize their material usage, reducing waste and overall cost savings.

The Asia-Pacific region is set to grow steadily from 2022 to 2028, thanks to advanced technologies such as improved manufacturing, advanced robotics, the industrial internet of things, and augmented reality. These technological advancements are poised to revolutionize how businesses operate and offer various benefits to organizations across a wide range of industries.

The computer aided manufacturing (CAM) market is an ever-evolving industry with intense competition among its leading players. SkyQuest's recent report on the CAM market comprehensively analyzes the industry's top competitors, including their collaborations, mergers, innovative business policies, and strategies. This report is a valuable resource for businesses and investors looking to stay abreast of the latest developments in the CAM market.

Key Developments in Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Market

PTC, a global leader in software solutions for product development and engineering, has announced its acquisition of CloudMilling, a cloud-native computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) solution. With this acquisition, PTC plans to fully integrate CloudMilling's technology into the Onshape platform by early 2023. CloudMilling's cloud-native architecture aligns with PTC's strategy of delivering innovative, cloud-based solutions to customers. The acquisition of CloudMilling also expands PTC's capabilities in the CAM market, allowing the company to serve its customers better and compete in the rapidly evolving digital manufacturing landscape.

SolidCAM, a leading CAM specialist, has made an exciting entry into the additive manufacturing market with its recent introduction of Desktop Metal 3D printing solutions. This move marks a key milestone for the organization as it combines two cutting-edge production methods, additive and subtractive, to deliver innovative solutions to its customers. SolidCAM's expansion into the additive manufacturing market through its Desktop Metal 3D printing solutions is a strategic move that allows the company to meet the growing demand for advanced manufacturing techniques.

TriMech, a prominent company that provides 3D CAD software and services in the United States, has recently acquired Solid Solutions Group (SSG). SSG is a renowned 3D computer-aided design software provider and services in the United Kingdom and Ireland. This acquisition was made possible by Sentinel Capital Partners, a private equity firm that acquired TriMech. With this acquisition, TriMech will be able to expand its reach to the European market, specifically the UK and Ireland, and offer its innovative CAD software and services to a wider customer base.

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Key Questions Answered in Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Market Report

What are the key factors driving growth in the identified market segments and regions, and how can companies capitalize on these factors?

What innovations in technology and product development are likely to impact the identified market segments and regions during the forecast period, and how can companies prepare for these changes?

What are the potential risks and challenges associated with targeting the identified market segments and regions, and how can companies mitigate these risks?

How can companies ensure their marketing strategies effectively reach and engage consumers in the identified market segments and regions?

Related Reports in SkyQuests Library:

Global Green Building Materials Market

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Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) is proud to honour Eric Watt, FCPA, FCA, with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his integrity as a leader and strategic advisor in both the CPA profession and community.



Watt was instrumental in establishing KPMG LLPs inaugural Vancouver-based financial services practice after beginning his career with KPMG predecessor Ernst & Whinney in 1977. Eventually rising to the role of senior audit partner, financial services with KPMG, Watt led its asset management and insurance practices, and served as a renowned expert for asset managers, mutual funds, insurance companies, and brokers throughout his tenure at the firm, which ran until 2012. Watt is currently chair of the Independent Review Committee at Leith Wheeler Investment Counsel and was elected to Fellowship in 2014.

In his community, Watt has strengthened the financial health and operating abilities of numerous B.C. non-profits, including Arts Umbrella Foundation, where as founding trustee and treasurer he was instrumental in establishing a sustainable funding base. As chair of Chor Leoni Foundation, he has led its strategic growth. And as a director with VSO School of Music, he established financial frameworks to streamline operations. Watt has also been instrumental in the success of the Rick Hansen Foundation, Knowledge Network, and Vancouver Foundation  where, as chair of the Finance and Audit Committee, Watt led growth of its endowment to over $1 billion, boosting its ability to provide vital grants supporting the local community.

In addition to his community service, Watt played a key role in the success of his provincial legacy bodys joint Investment Policy Task Force.

Some of Watts career and leadership highlights include:

Awarded KPMGs CEOs Regional Community Leader Award (2010) for financial acumen and extraordinary contributions to the charitable sector.

Led establishment and growth of Arts Umbrella Foundations assets to over $16 million, building a launch pad for future success.

Guided the Rick Hansen Foundation to address the financial challenges of COVID-19, while simultaneously adapting and expanding its programming.



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Quote from Lori Mathison, FCPA, FCGA, LLB, president and CEO of CPABC

Eric has led organizations, both in the profit and not-for-profit sectors, to success and sustainability through his strategic and informed mindset. His influence can be seen everywhere, from KPMGs evolvement to local arts organizations such as Arts Umbrella and VSO School of Music. We are incredibly pleased to honour him with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

To learn about other award recipients of CPABCs Member Recognition Program, visit CPABCs website.

NOTE TO JOURNALISTS: Publication quality photos of the recipients are available.

About CPA British Columbia

The Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) is the training, governing, and regulatory body for over 39,000 CPA members and 6,000 CPA candidates and students. CPABC carries out its primary mission to protect the public by enforcing the highest professional and ethical standards and contributing to the advancement of public policy.

CONTACT: Media Contact: Vivian Tse, Director, Communications news@bccpa.ca




D&H Distributing

 A Focus on New Resources & Attached Services has Delivered on the Potential of the BFG Initiative, Positioning the Distributor for Success in 2023 

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- D&H Distributing, a major provider of SMB, mid-market, and consumer technologies to the North American channel, announced it saw significant growth in key focus areas in 2022 including business applications, infrastructure, security and collaboration; as well as professional services, in the wake of the launch of its Modern Solutions Business Unit. This shift addresses technology consumption models like cloud and XaaS. Such high performances also come a little more than a year after D&H introduced its BFG (Built for Growth, Giving, and Generations) initiative, designed to expand the distributors ability to deliver transformative, modern solutions and strategies to its mid-market and SMB channel partner base.



D&H experienced triple-digit performance in several of these categories last year, including 102% sales growth in Modern Applications and Cloud Services; plus 264% growth of D&Hs new managed services offering, under its Professional Services portfolio. Other high-growth stats: The distributor saw a 39% increase in sales from its Modern Solutions Business Unit overall; 216% growth in Project Services; 66% growth in Integration Services; plus a 46% increase in sales of Cisco products. All figures are year-over-year.

Investing in Growth

D&H has also made notable investments in services and programs to position the company for ongoing growth in 2023. This includes its new in-house TechDrive Creative Studios marketing services arm, which provides full agency offerings customized specifically for the unique needs of each partner. It also includes new and/or revitalized vendor resources like the recently-launched Cisco Partner Enablement (CPE) self-service platform, new professional services from Microsoft and Google, and other investments. The details are as follows:

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Launch of TechDrive Creative Studios: This is D&Hs new marketing services division, which delivers no-cost consultation as well as a comprehensive portfolio of creative planning, design, and production across all media. TechDrives experts are versed in the industry and tech and can help partners to procure and utilize marketing resources and MDF (market development funds) to generate demand, helping them to better market specific technologies. Partners can contract for creation and development of digital marketing, web site, video, sales assets, and marketing campaign toolkits, or take advantage of more comprehensive concierge services. Looking forward into 2023, the division is developing a set of dynamic marketing automation tools to streamline the execution of partners go-to-market needs. More information is available at www.techdrivestudios.com

Launch of Cisco Partner Enablement (CPE) Platform: D&Hs new CPE platform provides a frictionless yet comprehensive way for partners to manage their Cisco business. The platform provides automated product catalog and sku attributes as well as order information including status, estimated delivery dates, tracking information and product serial numbers with one-click requests. Partners can also manage the renewal and contract lifecycle processes using CPE, and D&H is introducing pricing and proposal generation functionality in early 2023.

The CPE platform demonstrates D&Hs commitment to help increase its partners Cisco business, which contributed to the 41% growth in sales of these branded solutions in 2022. The MSP-inspired D&H Cloud Marketplace powers a robust portfolio of Cisco cloud solutions. D&H added a number of new Cisco cloud products in 2022 including Secure Endpoint (AMP), Stealthwatch, Webex, and Secure Email Threat Defense, and was the first distributor to offer renewal support for the Cisco Duo and Umbrella solutions.

Expansion of SuccessPath Program: D&Hs popular SuccessPath technical training and business transformation offering has branched out to address the companys greater Modern Solutions portfolio. What began as SuccessPath to Cloud has spawned parallel programs in other strategic areas including Modern Security, Modern Collaboration, Modern Infrastructure, and Modern Applications and Devices. These programs offer tactical, step-by-step trainingboth on-line and in personon how to develop and improve partner practices in these categories. Its resources are designed to increase the partners competencies in professional and managed services, complement their solution offerings, and optimize their profitability.

SuccessPath Premier is an enhanced version of this offering, recently developed for members of D&Hs Partnerfi partner engagement community, which has seen outstanding success. For example: Partnerfi members have experienced an uptick in cloud solutions sales of 210% since the programs launch in January of 2022. Thats more than double the growth that non-Partnerfi members experienced in this category in the same timeframe.

Success of D&Hs Expanded White Glove & Integration Services Center: D&Hs expanded integration center has seen considerable success since its launch at the new Harrisburg warehouse in spring of 2022, offering five times the capacity for configuration, including multiple large-scale etching machines to accommodate complex asset tagging and laser etching projects in a fraction of the time as competitors. D&H is also meeting increased market demand for sustainability and environmental initiatives through its green shipping program through the integration center.

This helped to enable D&Hs 66% increase in integration projects. For example, the center facilitated an extensive White Glove project in the education vertical involving more than 6,100 laptops in four days, provided to financially deserving students in one of Kansas largest public school districts. The centers capacity allows MSPs to significantly grow their margins through attached services while providing outstanding benefits for partners and end-users.

The enhanced integration center also supports cutting-edge device deployment programs including Microsoft Autopilot and Google Zero-touch enrollment. D&H technicians underwent extensive training and certification to leverage these automated deployment technologies, streamlining configuration and IT administration, and helping MSPs and channel partners capture high-profit services while reducing costs.

2022 was a powerhouse year for D&H, proving how industrious our team can be in providing uncommon value for partners. Since we unveiled our BFG campaign, its been a non-stop trajectory of development and resource enhancements all aimed at supporting our customers success, said Dan Schwab, co-president at D&H Distributing. Were dedicated to helping channel partners meet and exceed the challenges of the transforming marketplace in 2023, whether that means creating efficiencies in how they access order and purchasing information, delivering more dynamic demand-generating materials, or establishing new ways to add lucrative white labeled services to their projects. D&H is always evolving its offering to anticipate real-world needs and identify opportunities.

Partners can visit www.dandh.com for information, or call (800) 877-1200 to speak to a dedicated account representative.

About D&H Distributing

D&H Distributing supports resellers and MSP partners in the corporate, small-to-midsize business, consumer, education, and government markets with endpoints and advanced technologies, as well as differentiated services. D&H is ready to fill new market needs created by consolidation in the marketplace. Now in its 105th year (www.dandh.com/anniversary), its vendors and partners are confident in its ongoing ability to provide a wealth of enablement resources, multi-market expertise, credit options, and consultative services. D&H is agile in response to the needs of its VAR and MSP partners, demonstrating resilience through decades of industry mergers and market disruption, overcoming everything from wars and recessions to pandemics.

The company works to expand the competencies of its partners in areas such as cloud services, ProAV, collaboration, UCC, mobility, esports, digital displays, smart home automation, video surveillance, digital imaging, and server networks across a range of markets. Its value proposition includes highly lauded training opportunities and partner engagement events, dedicated Solutions Specialists, certifications, professional marketing resources, and an expanding digital Cloud Marketplace.

The distributor is headquartered in Harrisburg, PA, in the U.S. and Brampton, Ontario, in Canada with warehouses in Atlanta, GA; Chicago, IL; Fresno, CA; and Vancouver, BC, Canada. Call D&H at (800) 877-1200, visit www.dandh.com, or follow the distributors Facebook and Twitter feeds, https://www.facebook.com/DandHDistributing/ and @dandh

Contact: Suzanne Mattaboni

Suzanne Mattaboni Communications, Inc.

For D&H Distributing

(610) 737-2140

suzanne@mattaboni.com




NANJING, China, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- At the beginning of February 2023, Zhaohui Zhang from Jiangsu Provincial People's Hospital received a job offer from the editorial department after the Chinese Lantern Festival. As the corresponding author, he wrote the paper "Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation Inhibited Central NGF/TrkA/PLC- Signaling Pathway in Functional Dyspepsia Model Rats with Gastric Hypersensitivity". The paper has been accepted and published by "Neuromodulation".

Distinguished Acupuncturist in China, Zhaohui Zhang Publishes Paper on Neuromodulation as the Corresponding Author

Acupuncture is one of the highly distinctive and effective therapies of Chinese medicine, and it has been the main method of treating diseases of the Chinese people for thousands of years, making remarkable contributions to the health of the Chinese people. At the same time, due to its unique advantages of broad indications, rapid and remarkable efficacy, and very few side effects, acupuncture has also become the most widely used Chinese medical method in the world and has spread to more than 140 countries and regions, it has become an important part of world medicine and being a significant character in safeguarding the life and health of all human beings.

Dr. Zhaohui Zhang is a distinguished acupuncturist and a leader in the field of auricular acupuncture in China. Auricular acupuncture is an important part of acupuncture medicine. Auricular acupuncture are points distributed on the auricle, and when the body's internal organs or torso are ill, such as pressure pain, nodules, and discoloration, often appear in some parts of the auricle. Ear acupuncture treatment uses these phenomenons as a reference for diagnosing diseases and treating them by stimulating these reaction points. Dr. Zhaohui Zhang has focused on auricular acupuncture clinical treatment and research for over twenty years and has accumulated a wealth of experience, especially in auricular acupuncture combined with acupuncture point injection for peripheral neuropathy as well as pain. Auricular acupuncture has unique and remarkable curative effects in treating gastrointestinal diseases and cerebral palsy caused by tumors. He has cured or alleviated the symptoms of more than 100,000 patients with the silver needle in his hand.

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Being a good doctor is the dream of Zhaohui Zhang. After graduating from Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1995, Zhaohui Zhang entered the acupuncture and moxibustion department of Jiangsu Provincial People's Hospital. For more than 20 years, he has devoted himself to the medical treatment, scientific research and teaching of auricular acupuncture, and has achieved fruitful results in many aspects. Therefore, he was hired as the director of the acupuncture and moxibustion department of Jiangsu Provincial People's Hospital.

Zhang Zhaohui said that as a doctor, the most fulfilling and gratifying thing is undoubtedly seeing the improvement of the patient's condition. Especially when curing some patients who have been troubled by intractable diseases for a long time. Ms. Song, who was only forty years old, underwent a craniotomy at the neurosurgery department of a hospital in Shanghai due to a "huge pituitary adenoma". After surgery, the oculomotor nerve was injured, the right eye nerve was paralyzed, the right eyelid was severely drooping, and the height between the eyes The difference is more than 1 cm. The appearance is almost "disfigured", the eyesight is sluggish to light reflex, double vision, and the worst thing is the inability to walk independently. When the doctor told her that it was almost impossible to recover, Ms. Song was desperate. Unreconciled, Ms. Song searched for doctors and medicines everywhere, and was recommended to go to Jiangsu Provincial People's Hospital to seek treatment from Dr. Zhaohui Zhang. After several times of acupuncture and moxibustion by Dr. Zhang, the effect was obvious. The right eyelid could be slightly lifted. After 3 months, the lift was more obvious, and the two eyes were almost flat. Ms. Song insisted on asking Dr. Zhang for acupuncture and moxibustion treatment. After 3 years, she fully recovered. There was no abnormality in her appearance, her eyesight recovered, and she was even able to participate in local mountain climbing activities and won a special award. Even the surgeon who performed the craniotomy on her saw her during the review and thought it was a medical miracle! Another patient, Ms. Tang, suffered from insomnia for 10 years. Various medications were ineffective. After a period of ear acupuncture treatment by Dr. Zhaohui Zhang, her insomnia gradually improved. Diseases such as liver cysts and digestive tract problems have gradually improved. These are all miracles created by Dr. Zhaohui Zhang with the acupuncture needles in his hands.

Over the years, Dr. Zhaohui Zhang has been actively conducting research on the subject of auricular acupuncture, not only expanding the therapeutic field of auricular acupuncture, but also combining the scientific experimental methods of Western medicine to promote the progress of research. Gastrointestinal disease is a disease that is more prevalent around the world, and Dr. Zhaohui Zhang has discovered that auricular acupuncture is uniquely effective in treating gastrointestinal disease and has conducted many studies on this. Not only has he undertaken and completed several national and provincial research projects on auricular acupuncture for gastrointestinal diseases, but he was also invited to the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston as a visiting scholar to collaborate on research. He has published several articles on this topic in SCI journals and Chinese core journals, which have received a lot of attention. For example, one patient had hiccups after brain tumor surgery, which did not sound like a serious disease, but it was very suffering because it was not healing for a long time, but it affected her rest.

Dr. Zhaohui Zhang is also active in the promotion and popularization of acupuncture. Although acupuncture treatment is very effective, there are some safety issues in practice. For example, warm acupuncture therapy combines acupuncture and moxibustion, in the use of moxibustion, there are many mays to burn the patient's skin, leading to medical risks and disputes. Dr. Zhaohui Zhangi has developed a patented product "Stability anti-burn warm acupuncture frame assembly", which has been applied to many hospitals' acupuncture clinics and has tens of thousand users. Doctors generally reflect that the product is easy to operate and safe, which greatly reduces the risk of using warm acupuncture therapy. Dr. Zhang's another national invention patent "precise micro-acupuncture point injection pen" is an instrument specially applied to acupuncture point injection, which makes the syringe not shake and shift even for unskilled operators, thus making acupuncture point injection more safe, precise and micro, effectively preventing medical accidents and greatly reducing the professional requirements for acupuncture point injectors. The professional requirements for acupoint injection personnel are greatly reduced, and it is easy to promote the use of acupoint injection expertise in a large area.

We believe that excellent doctors like Zhaohui Zhang will continue to bring their strengths and expertise to leverage strengths in their own deeply cultivated fields in the future, and make greater contributions to the entire medical career for the benefit of more people. (Reporter: Daniel Zhou)

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/distinguished-acupuncturist-in-china-zhaohui-zhang-publishes-paper-on-neuromodulation-as-the-corresponding-author-301756169.html

SOURCE Jiangsu Provincial People's Hospital
Unaudited Results for the three and nine months ended 31 December 2023

Corporate and Operational Update

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. ("Eco," "Eco Atlantic," "Company," or together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") (AIM:ECO)(TSXV:EOG), the oil and gas exploration company focused on the offshore Atlantic Margins, is pleased to announce its results for the three and nine months ended 31 December 2022, and to provide a corporate and operational update.

Highlights:

Financials (as at 31 December 2022)

The Company had cash and cash equivalents of US$14.5 million and no debt as at 31 December 2022.

The Company had total assets of US$68.0 million, total liabilities of US$17.8 million and total equity of US$50.1 million as at 31 December 2022.

Operations:

South Africa

Block 2B

In November 2022, the JV Partners submitted a Production Right Application to the Petroleum Agency of South Africa ("PASA"), based on the existing oil discovery of AJ-1 and potential future operations.

Following the drilling of the Gazania-1 well in November 2022, further analysis of the well data is being undertaken to determine next steps on the Block.

Eco and its JV partners continue to believe that Block 2B contains considerable hydrocarbon resources and further updates will be made in due course on how the JV partners will look to deliver value from the licence for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Block 3B/4B

In December 2022, Eco received regulatory approval from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy ("DMRE") of South Africa and Petroleum Agency South Africa ("PASA") in respect of its acquisition of an additional 6.25% participating interest in the Block (the "Acquisition"), giving Eco an overall interest of 26.25%.

As the final instalment of the share consideration due in respect of the Acquisition, Eco is issuing an additional 1,666,666 common shares to the Lunn Family Trust, the Vendor (the "Final Consideration Shares").

The Company and its JV partners are progressing plans to conduct a two-well campaign on Block 3B/4B and in addition continue to progress the collaborative farm-out process, up to 55% gross working interest in the Block, with various potential parties.

The JV Partners have selected a leading South African environmental consulting firm to conduct a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process commencing in March 2023 in preparation for permitting and drilling activity on the Block.

Africa Oil Corp. the Operator of the Block is preparing a new 51-101 Competent Person's Report following the completion of the 3D data reprocessing and targets and leads identification.

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Namibia

Namibia witnessed some of the largest oil exploration discoveries in the world in 2022 and with significant exploration activity set to continue this year, the Company believes that its highly strategic acreage in-country will remain of considerable interest to operators looking to enter the region.

Eco continues to explore possible farm out opportunities with its four licences in the region and will update investors on developments accordingly.

Guyana

Eco and its JV partners on the Orinduik Block, offshore Guyana, continue to work towards identifying the optimal drilling target and Eco plans to drill at least one well into a light oil Cretaceous target in the next 12-18 months.

With an excess of 11 billion barrels of oil discovered in Guyana to date, the region has become one of the most prolific hydrocarbon basins in the world. Eco continues to work towards unlocking the potential of the Orinduik Block as fast as practically possible.

Gil Holzman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:

"We have had a busy start to the year, and I am pleased to report substantial progress across a number of fronts in our exciting exploration portfolio.

Following our drilling campaign on Block 2B, offshore South Africa, in Q4 2022, we continue to analyse the well data obtained from the Gazania-1 well. We remain of the view that considerable untapped potential remains in the asset and we are working with our partners on the Block to plan our next steps, in order to deliver value for all stakeholders.

Significant progress continues to be made on Block 3B/4B, offshore South Africa, with a number of workstreams progressing well. As we have said previously, we are conducting a farm out process on the licence and we are looking ahead to commencing a two well drilling program once ESIA is completed and permits obtained.

Both Guyana and Namibia continue to yield sizeable discoveries, and we are seeing unprecedented levels of interest for exploration assets in these regions. As such, we continue to progress our highly strategic acreage positions in both Guyana and Namibia and we look forward to updating the market on our farm out program in Namibia and our plans for a drilling campaign in Guyana as soon as practically possible.

We remain excited about the potential for 2023 and we look forward to keeping all stakeholders updated throughout the course of the year."

Admission of the Common Shares

Application has been made for admission of the Final Consideration Shares, which will rank pari passu with existing Common Shares, to trading on AIM ("Admission"). It is expected that Admission will become effective, and trading will commence on or around 8.00 a.m. on 3 March 2023.

Following Admission of the Consideration Shares, the enlarged issued share capital of the Company will be 367,348,680 Common Shares. The above figure may be used by shareholders as the denominator for the calculations by which they will determine if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in, the share capital of the Company.

The Company's unaudited financial results for the three and nine months ended 31 December 2022, together with Management's Discussion and Analysis as at 31 December 2022, are available to download on the Company's website at www.ecooilandgas.com and on Sedar at www.sedar.com.

The following are the Company's Balance Sheet, Income Statements, Cash Flow Statement and selected notes from the annual Financial Statements. All amounts are in US Dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Balance Sheet

December 31, March 31, 2022 2022 (Unaudited) (Audited) Assets Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 14,461,888 3,438,834 Short-term investments 55,266 52,618 Government receivable 42,468 27,487 Amounts owing by license partners, net 4,279,350 - Accounts receivable and prepaid expenses 788,597 257,911 Assets held for sale - 2,061,734 Total Current Assets 19,627,569 5,838,584 Non- Current Assets Investment in associate 9,000,254 9,277,162 Petroleum and natural gas licenses 39,351,990 30,753,034 Total Non-Current Assets 48,352,244 40,030,196 Total Assets 67,979,813 45,868,780 Liabilities Current Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 17,003,778 1,931,823 Current liabilities related to assets held for sale - 473,254 Warrant liability 838,789 3,241,762 Total Current Liabilities 17,842,567 5,646,839 Total Liabilities 17,842,567 5,646,839 Equity Share capital 121,570,983 63,141,609 Shares to be issued - 20,766,996 Restricted Share Units reserve 433,153 267,669 Warrants 14,778,272 7,806,000 Stock options 2,560,023 958,056 Foreign currency translation reserve (1,846,026 ) (1,309,727 ) Accumulated deficit (87,359,159 ) (51,408,662 ) Total Equity 50,137,246 40,221,941 Total Liabilities and Equity 67,979,813 45,868,780

Income Statement

Three months ended Nine months ended December 31, December 31, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Unaudited Unaudited Revenue Interest income 36,731 - 93,183 8,435 36,731 - 93,183 8,435 Operating expenses: Compensation costs 217,192 116,651 697,106 526,738 Professional fees 131,188 79,763 591,767 261,262 Operating costs, net 19,880,507 179,885 32,921,918 597,703 General and administrative costs 120,692 121,569 728,846 430,926 Share-based compensation 484,125 2,373 2,236,011 14,083 Foreign exchange loss (333,104 ) (12,235 ) 642,117 40,987 Total operating expenses 20,500,600 488,006 37,817,765 1,871,699 Operating loss (20,463,869 ) (488,006 ) (37,724,582 ) (1,863,264 ) Fair value change in warrant liability 556,277 1,236,827 2,402,973 1,874,016 Share of losses of company accounted for at equity (92,303 ) - (276,908 ) - Net profit (loss) for the period from continuing operations (19,999,895 ) 748,821 (35,598,517 ) 10,752 Gain (loss) from discontinued operations, after-tax 546,343 (512,778 ) (351,980 ) (1,000,969 ) Net profit (loss) for the period (19,453,552 ) 236,043 (35,950,497 ) (990,217 ) Foreign currency translation adjustment 16,803 35,160 (536,299 ) 26,925 Comprehensive profit (loss) for the period (19,436,749 ) 271,203 (36,486,796 ) (963,292 ) Basic and diluted net loss per share attributable to equity holders of the parent (0.055 ) (0.002 ) (0.104 ) (0.005 ) Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in computing basic and diluted net loss per share 365,355,650 199,893,636 344,158,567 194,041,560

Cash Flow Statement

Nine months ended December 31, 2022 2021 (Unaudited) (Unaudited) Cash flow from operating activities Net loss from continuing operations (35,598,517 ) 10,752 Net loss from discontinued operations (351,980 ) (1,000,969 ) Items not affecting cash: Share-based compensation 2,236,012 14,083 Depreciation and amortization - 57,187 Accrued interest - 8,535 Revaluation of warrant liability (2,402,973 ) (1,874,016 ) Share of losses of companies accounted for at equity 276,908 - Changes in non-cash working capital: Government receivable (14,981 ) 12,444 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 15,243,249 145,697 Accounts receivable and prepaid expenses 7,969,314 (59,781 ) Reallocation to discontinued operations cashflows (171,294 ) - Advance from and amounts owing to license partners (12,878,306 ) (298,337 ) (25,692,568 ) (2,984,405 ) Net change in non-cash working capital items relating to discontinued operations (458,842 ) - - Cash flow from investing activities Investment in associate - (10,000,000 ) Short-term investments (2,648 ) 1,500,022 (2,648 ) (8,499,978 ) Cash flow from investing activities - discontinued operations 2,047,322 - Cash flow from financing activities Proceeds from private placements, net 35,666,089 - Issuance of shares - 4,793,789 Exercise of stock options - 71,388 35,666,089 4,865,177 Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 11,559,353 (6,619,206 ) Foreign exchange differences (536,299 ) 46,000 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 3,438,834 11,807,309 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 14,461,888 5,234,103 Supplementary disclosure of cash flow information: Significant non-cash transactions Issuance of shares in respect of farm out agreement 8,500,000 - 8,500,000 -

Notes to the Financial Statements

Basis of Preparation

The Condensed Interim Consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared on a historical cost basis with the exception of certain financial instruments that are measured at fair value. Historical cost is generally based on the fair value of the consideration given in exchange for assets.

**ENDS**

For more information, please visit www.ecooilandgas.com or contact the following:

Eco Atlantic Oil and Gas c/o Celicourt +44 (0) 20 8434 2754 Gil Holzman, CEO Colin Kinley, COO Alice Carroll, Head of Corporate Sustainability +44(0)781 729 5070 Strand Hanson (Financial & Nominated Adviser) +44 (0) 20 7409 3494 James Harris James Bellman Berenberg (Broker) +44 (0) 20 3207 7800 Matthew Armitt Detlir Elezi Echelon Capital (Financial Adviser N. America Markets) Ryan Mooney Simon Akit +1 (403) 606 4852 +1 (416) 8497776 Celicourt (PR) +44 (0) 20 8434 2754 Mark Antelme Jimmy Lea

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of United Kingdom domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (as amended).

Notes to editors:

About Eco Atlantic:

Eco Atlantic is a TSX-V and AIM-quoted Atlantic Margin-focused oil & gas exploration company with offshore license interests in Guyana, Namibia, and South Africa. Eco aims to deliver material value for its stakeholders through its role in the energy transition to explore for low carbon intensity oil and gas in stable emerging markets close to infrastructure.

Offshore Guyana in the proven Guyana-Suriname Basin, the Company holds a 15% Working Interest in the 1,800 km2 Orinduik Block Operated by Tullow Oil. In Namibia, the Company holds Operatorship and an 85% Working Interest in four offshore Petroleum Licences: PELs: 97, 98, 99, and 100, representing a combined area of 28,593 km2 in the Walvis Basin.

Offshore South Africa, Eco is Operator and holds a 50% working interest in Block 2B and a 26.25% Working Interest in Block 3B/4B operated by Africa Oil Corp., totalling some 20,643km2.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Eco (Atlantic) Oil and Gas Ltd.





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BILLERICA, Mass., February 27, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Entegris, Inc. (NASDAQ: ENTG), a leading supplier of advanced materials and process solutions for the semiconductor and other high-technology industries, today announced the appointment of James (Jim) Anderson to its board of directors. Mr. Anderson is the president and chief executive officer of Lattice Semiconductor Corporation.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230227005839/en/

James (Jim) Anderson (Photo: Entegris)

"We are thrilled to welcome Jim Anderson to the Entegris board of directors," said Paul L.H. Olson, chairman of Entegris board of directors. "Jim brings to the board over twenty years of broad technology industry experience across a range of sectors. Entegris will be able to draw on his experiences at Lattice Semiconductor, Intel, AMD, and other companies at the forefront of the semiconductor industry to provide keen insight into how Entegris can optimize operational execution and continue to innovate to meet the evolving needs of the industry."

About Mr. Anderson

Since 2018, Mr. Anderson has served as the president and chief executive officer of Lattice Semiconductor Corporation. Prior to joining Lattice Semiconductor, Mr. Anderson served as the senior vice president and general manager of the Computing and Graphics Business Group at Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD). Before joining AMD in May 2015, Mr. Anderson worked at Intel Corporation, Broadcom Inc. (formerly Avago Technologies), and LSI Corporation in a variety of leadership positions. Mr. Anderson currently serves on the board of directors of the Semiconductor Industry Association and previously served as a member of the board of directors of Sierra Wireless, Inc. (until January 2023).

About Entegris

Entegris is a world-class supplier of advanced materials and process solutions for the semiconductor and other high-tech industries. Entegris has approximately 10,000 employees throughout its global operations and is ISO 9001 certified. It has manufacturing, customer service and/or research facilities in the United States, Canada, China, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. Additional information can be found at www.entegris.com.

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Contacts

Investor Contact:

Bill Seymour

VP of Investor Relations, Treasury & Communications

+ 1 952 556 1844

bill.seymour@entegris.com

Media Contact:

Connie Chandler

Senior Director of Corporate Communications

+1 978 436 6546

connie.chandler@entegtris.com
InvestmentPitch Media and EYEfi Group

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EYEfi Group Technologies (CSE:EGTI) (OTCPink:EGTTF), a software and electronics engineering company, announced that for a limited time, Axis Communications will be offering all new and existing Axis customers a free 6-month subscription to EYEfi Cloud Connect. Axis Communications ( www.axis.com ), a product partner of EYEfi, sells millions of camera devices per year in the Australian and Asian markets.



A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on the image or link below:

For more information, please view the InvestmentPitch Media video which provides additional information about this news and the company. The video is available for viewing on  InvestmentPitch  and on  YouTube . If these links are not enabled, please visit www.InvestmentPitch.com and enter EYEfi in the search box.

Under this exciting new initiative, Axis will underwrite the expense and pay EYEfi for the full 6-month subscription period, thereby raising awareness and driving new clients to the EYEfi Cloud Connect Platform.

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Lund, Sweden, Axis is the industry leader in network video. With more than 3,800 dedicated employees across 50+ countries, Axis offers products and services for video surveillance and analytics, access control, intercom, and audio systems, delivering customer solutions through its worldwide partnerships.

The EYEfi Cloud Connect is a VSaaS, or Video Surveillance as a Service, web-hosted cloud-based video surveillance solution that allows Axis customers to remotely store, manage, record, play, and monitor surveillance footage, entirely in the cloud. The EYEfi Cloud Connect ships in the box' with a scannable QR code with every Axis camera sold to customers.

Wai King Wong, Axis Communications, Regional Director, Oceania, stated: "This initiative by Axis Communications is a demonstration of our ongoing commitment to the EYEfi Cloud Connect platform and the capabilities it enables for Axis customers. We have already seen the platform simplify the security demands of thousands of end-users and we are excited to extend this solution to even more customers."

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Simon Langdon, Founder and CEO, EYEfi Group Technologies, added: "We are incredibly excited by this commitment from Axis to actively market and fund the 6-month subscription offer of EYEfi Cloud Connect, which will be available for both existing and new camera purchases. With an active and growing sales pipeline, this program will help us drive adoption and close sales contracts faster."

EYEfi has already signed up three major distributors in the Oceania region, who also work with Axis Communications; Dicker Data, VSP Solutions and a global distributor, Anixter. Not a household word in North America, Australian-owned and operated Dicker Data ( www.dickerdata.com.au ) has been a leading technology hardware, software and cloud distributor for more than 40 years selling to many of the worlds leading technology vendors, including Cisco, Citrix, Dell Technologies, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Lenovo, and Microsoft. Dicker Data is marketing and selling EYEfi Axis Cloud through its network of more than 6,000 resellers across Australia and New Zealand.

EYEfi now has its sights set on its global expansion with several new distributors in negotiations, including one of the largest global distributors headquartered in California, USA.

EYEfi has developed, patented and commercialized an innovative spatial technology known as SPARC, an acronym standing for spatial, predictive, approximation and radial convolution, along with an associated product suite, which turns sensors, cameras and smartphones, whether fixed, mobile, airborne or portable, into geo-target co-ordinate acquisition devices, connecting people and devices, in real-time and in ways not previously possible. EYEfi has also developed Industrial Internet of Things sensor hardware and associated cloud software, as a second pillar within its product offering. EYEfi Cloud is a next generation cloud platform that provides a secure and centralized environment where customers can manage their EYEfi product deployments and applications.

The shares are trading at $0.35. For more information about EYEfis products, please visit the companys website www.EYEfiGroup.com , contact Simon Langdon, CEO, by email at info@EYEfi.com.au , or Anoosh Manzoori, CEO of Shape Capital Pty Ltd, at +61.409 252 088 or by email at anoosh@shape.capital .

About InvestmentPitch Media

InvestmentPitch Media leverages the power of video, which together with its extensive distribution, positions a companys story ahead of the 1,000's of companies seeking awareness and funding from the financial community. The company specializes in producing short videos based on significant news releases, research reports and other content of interest to investors.

Disclaimer

The information in this InvestmentPitch Media Ltd video is for the viewers information only. EYEfi Group has paid a fee not exceeding $2,000 in cash to have its current news release produced in video format. The corporate information is based on information that is publicly available. Any information provided by InvestmentPitch Media Ltd., through its media services is not to be construed as a recommendation or suggestion or offer to buy or sell securities but is provided solely as an informational media service. InvestmentPitch Media Ltd makes no warranties or undertakings as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. All due diligence should be done by the viewer or their financial advisor. Investing in securities is speculative and carries risk.

CONTACT:

InvestmentPitch Media

Barry Morgan, CFO

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Faraday Copper Corp. ("Faraday" or the "Company") (TSX:FDY) is pleased to announce the acquisition of a land package (the "Mercer Ranch") for US$10 million (the "Acquisition"), consisting of approximately 6,000 deeded acres within 32,000 acres of controlled ranch land (Figure 1). The acquisition aligns with the Company's strategy of land consolidation, advancing and de-risking the Copper Creek Project.

Paul Harbidge, President and CEO, commented "The Mercer Ranch purchase is an important milestone at this early stage of advancing the Copper Creek Project that provides numerous benefits. The Mercers are supportive stakeholders and neighbours and will continue to operate the ranch for the foreseeable future."

Acquisition of Mercer Ranch (Figure 1)

Approximately 6,000 deeded acres (private land) within approximately 32,000 acres of surface rights through active grazing leases

Acquisition cost: US$10 million US$250,000 non-refundable deposit paid in 2022 Closing subject to customary conditions and filings

Strategic benefits Location for potential third-party solar power generation facility Land offsets for areas impacted by mining activities Additional infrastructure locations and flexibility Secondary mine access corridor Mineral and water rights



Figure 1: Land Overview - Copper Creek and Mercer Ranch

Faraday Copper Corp., Monday, February 27, 2023, Press release picture

About Faraday Copper

Faraday Copper is a Canadian exploration company focused on advancing its flagship copper project in Arizona, U.S. The Copper Creek project is one of the largest undeveloped copper projects in North America with open pit and bulk underground mining potential. The Company is well-funded to deliver on its key milestones and benefits from a management team and board of directors with senior mining company experience and expertise. Faraday trades on the TSX under the symbol "FDY".

For additional information please contact:

Stacey Pavlova, CFA

Vice President, Investor Relations & Communications

Faraday Copper Corp.

E-mail: info@faradaycopper.com

Website: www.faradaycopper.com

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To receive news releases by e-mail, please register using the Faraday website at www.faradaycopper.com.

Cautionary Note on Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking statements" and are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Faraday to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the potential benefits of the Mercer Ranch acquisition and the expected use for the Mercer Ranch.

Although Faraday believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include without limitation: market prices for metals; the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses; lower than expected grades and quantities of resources; receipt of regulatory approval; receipt of shareholder approval; mining rates and recovery rates; significant capital requirements; price volatility in the spot and forward markets for commodities; fluctuations in rates of exchange; taxation; controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries in which Faraday does or may carry on business; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, competition; loss of key employees; rising costs of labour, supplies, fuel and equipment; actual results of current exploration or reclamation activities; accidents; labour disputes; defective title to mineral claims or property or contests over claims to mineral properties; unexpected delays and costs inherent to consulting and accommodating rights of Indigenous peoples and other groups; risks, uncertainties and unanticipated delays associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements, including those associated with the Copper Creek property; and uncertainties with respect to any future acquisitions by Faraday. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental events and hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and the risk of inadequate insurance or inability to obtain insurance to cover these risks as well as "Risk Factors" included in Faraday's disclosure documents filed on and available at www.sedar.com.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation in such jurisdiction. This press release is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, a prospectus, an offering memorandum, an advertisement or a public offering of securities in Faraday in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. No securities commission or similar authority in Canada or in the United States has reviewed or in any way passed upon this press release, and any representation to the contrary is an offence.

SOURCE: Faraday Copper Corp.





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The Leading Sign, Graphics and Visual Communications Franchise

Wins its Fifth Consecutive Global Franchise Award at the Annual IFA Conference

CARROLLTON, Texas, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FASTSIGNS , the leading sign, graphics and visual communications franchise in the nation, ranked first in "Signage & Communication" for the annual Global Franchise Awards . This marks the fifth consecutive year FASTSIGNS has won this award, highlighting the brand's superb ethics, dedication and excellence as an international franchisor.

FASTSIGNS International, Inc. (PRNewsfoto/FASTSIGNS International, Inc.)

"Our franchisees work to establish FASTSIGNS as the go-to resource for visual communications in their communities and receiving this prestigious recognition for the fifth year is a testament to the strength of our growing network," said Mark Jameson, chief support and development officer at Propelled Brands. "We are thrilled to be recognized as number one in our category for both this award as well as recently in Entrepreneur magazine's highly competitive Franchise 500 list. We are proud of our entire team and thank our amazing franchisees helping us to achieve these accolades."

The Global Franchise Awards, now in its sixth year, honors exceptional franchise brands that are leaders in their respective categories. To decide the winners of these Awards, Global Franchise shortlists the applications using an independent panel of key, impartial and industry experts working to the criteria created by the Global Franchise team. Using these criteria as a guide, the judges select an entry from each category that best demonstrates the values Global Franchise is looking to celebrate.

FASTSIGNS experienced exceptional growth last year surpassing $700 million in sales for the first time. Today there are over 765 FASTSIGNS locations in eight different countries with more being awarded as new franchisees continue to join FASTSIGNS. In 2022, 20 franchises were awarded through either traditional franchise agreements or through co-brands and conversions, including four international locations. Currently, at least 400 more U.S. and Canadian markets and additional international markets are targeted for development.

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"FASTSIGNS was a 'leap of faith' or a 'leap before you look' type of situation, but we have never regretted it for a single moment," said Donna Bilodeau, FASTSIGNS franchisee of Windsor, Ontario. "The support from FASTSIGNS is second to none. The corporate team is designed to assist the franchisees in making our businesses front runners in the industry. We have grown many relationships and sales over the years, and could not have done it without the support of our franchisor and the family of other franchisees."

The total investment for a FASTSIGNS franchise is approximately $233,555 - $307,308 including a $49,750 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $300,000, of which $80K is liquid. Additionally, FASTSIGNS offers a special incentive for veterans and first responders, including paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, sheriffs and firefighters, which includes a 50% reduction on the franchise fee -- a savings of $24,875.

To view FASTSIGNS in the full Global Franchise Award winners list, visit https://www.global-franchise.com/awards/winners .

For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5679).

About FASTSIGNS

FASTSIGNS is a leading national visual ideas company that creates a wide variety of comprehensive sign and graphics solutions. With over 35 years of experience, FASTSIGNS helps you achieve more than you ever thought possible. We are the worldwide franchisor of more than 765 independently owned and operated FASTSIGNS centers. FASTSIGNS locations span across the United States, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom, Canada, Chile, Grand Cayman, Malta, the Dominican Republic and Australia (where centers operate as SIGNWAVE). FASTSIGNS is frequently recognized for franchisee satisfaction and through franchising awards which include being ranked #1 on Entrepreneur's Highly Competitive Franchise 500 List for the Seventh Consecutive Year for 2023 as well as being named a 2023 Best-in-Category Franchise by Franchise Business Review.

In 2021, Propelled Brands was formed, and is now the multi-brand franchisor for FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo, MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza brands.

To learn more visit fastsigns.com . Follow the brand on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fastsigns , Twitter @FASTSIGNS or Facebook at facebook.com/FASTSIGNS . For information about the FASTSIGNS franchise opportunity, contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@fastsigns.com or call 214.346.5679).

Cision

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SOURCE FASTSIGNS International, Inc.
Bringing Fifth Wall's total capital raised to $2.9 billion; the third

most of any venture capital firm founded in the last five years

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fifth Wall announced the close of $1.5B of new funds in 2022, including a $866M Real Estate Tech Fund III , 140M European Fund and $500M Climate Fund . Since 2016, Fifth Wall has raised the third-most capital of any venture firm globally ($2.9B), according to SEC Form D filings. Separately, a Fifth Wall affiliate raised $620M between two SPACs, including FWAA, which completed a merger with the Fifth Wall portfolio company SmartRent in 2021, and FWAC, which announced a merger with Mobile Infrastructure Corporation in 2022. In addition, Fifth Wall grew its team to 75 investment professionals across five offices in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, and recently opened Singapore office.

Fifth Wall is the largest and most active investor in real estate tech (or "PropTech"). Today, the firm's funds represent 64% of capital raised for dedicated PropTech funds. In addition to its PropTech funds, Fifth Wall recently started investing in Climate Tech to decarbonize the global real estate industry, raising $740M across early-stage and growth stage funds. Separately, the firm launched its climate infrastructure strategy led by Alok Sindher. Fifth Wall is also today's largest VC fund that is a certified B Corp.

Since the launch of its first $212M fund in May 2017, Fifth Wall has benefited from the explosive growth of PropTech and Climate Tech, which each now represent some of the largest venture capital categories. The firm became an early investor in many successful PropTech companies including Aurora Solar , VTS , and Lessen which recently acquired SMS Assist in the largest PropTech M&A transaction in history. In addition, Fifth Wall has invested in six companies that have gone public such as Procore which recently became an investor in the firm's Real Estate Tech Fund III Opendoor , Blend , Doma , Hippo , and SmartRent which completed a merger with Fifth Wall-sponsored FWAA in 2021. Nine of the Firm's portfolio companies became unicorns in 2022, including Bilt , Cargomatic , ICON , Material Bank , ONE , SOURCE , Turntide Technologies , Veev , and VTS , totaling more than 25 portfolio companies that have become unicorns since Fifth Wall's inception.

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Founded in North America, Fifth Wall has rapidly expanded internationally with its European Fund, London and Singapore offices, and more than 110 strategic Limited Partners who represent some of today's largest real estate owners from 15 different countries such as DAMAC (United Arab Emirates), British Land (United Kingdom), MERLIN Properties (Spain), MITSUBISHI ESTATE CO., LTD. (Japan) and NZ Super Fund (New Zealand), among many others. Fifth Wall boasts strategic Limited Partners from each major asset class across the real estate value chain, including Industrial ( Prologis ), Retail ( Macerich ), Multifamily ( Camden Property Trust ), Single Family ( Invitation Homes ), Homebuilding ( Lennar ), Healthcare ( Physicians Realty Trust ), Hotels ( Hilton ), Services ( CBRE ), and Listings ( News Corp / Move, Inc. ), among others.

"Fifth Wall was fortunate to be one of the first venture funds to identify the secular collision between the two largest industries in the U.S., real estate and technology. Because of our consistent track record of investing in category-leading businesses at this intersection, we have been able to meaningfully participate in fiscal as well as strategic value that has been created in what we today call PropTech," shared Brendan Wallace , Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Fifth Wall. "Our position at the driver's seat in part comes from pioneering a unique model of boasting the largest real estate organizations in the world as our Limited Partners, because they are the biggest customers and end-users of the companies that we are investing in."

Fifth Wall's Inception

Fifth Wall was founded by Wallace and Brad Greiwe in a Philz Coffee shop in Santa Monica, when they were in their early 30's. A graduate of Princeton, Wallace began his career with Goldman Sachs' and Blackstone's real estate groups before going on to found two successful companies out of Stanford Business School, including one that was sold to Workday. Similarly, Greiwe, a Harvard graduate, started his career in investment banking at UBS and private equity with Tishman Speyer as well as Starwood Capital Group, before co-founding and serving as CTO for Invitation Homes, the largest owner of single family homes within the United States and now an investor in Fifth Wall's PropTech and Climate Tech funds.

Fifth Wall was founded on an unproven idea, as no institutional-scale funds existed in PropTech and no funds had attracted real estate corporates as Limited Partners in 2016. After closing its first $75M that grew to $212M, the firm gained momentum, investing in many startups that have since become synonymous with PropTech such as Blend , Doma , Hippo , Lessen , Opendoor , and VTS . Its investments in 2016 to 2018 have already returned a net amount of more than $493M to-date to investors.

In turn, Fifth Wall became synonymous with PropTech and is sought out by leading entrepreneurs and venture capital funds to help accelerate their businesses through the Firm's distribution lanes which grew from seven to more than 110 Limited Partners in seven years across every major subsector of the real estate industry. The firm followed up its $212M Fund I with its $503M Fund II and $866 Fund III, each of which were the largest PropTech funds at the time they closed.

Fifth Wall earned the reputation as a firm that can accelerate its portfolio companies through partnerships with its strategic Limited Partner base, among the Firm's most notable partnerships is Opendoor & Lennar .

"What makes Fifth Wall's model so powerful is that it delivers specific, differentiated value through its unmatched network of real estate relationships with many of the most influential firms in North America and globally," stated Max Simkoff , Founder & CEO of Doma, a Fifth Wall portfolio company that acquired North American Titlea subsidiary of Fifth Wall Limited Partner, Lennarin 2019.

In addition to its numerous funds, Fifth Wall IPO'ed $620M across two SPACs, "FWAA" and "FWAC." FWAA merged with the Firm's portfolio company SmartRent, which included a $150M PIPE from Fifth Wall's Limited Partners and SmartRent's customers including Lennar. FWAC, recently announced its merger with Mobile Infrastructure Corporation.

Fifth Wall leveraged its leadership position in PropTech to build its Climate business, which emerged as the largest investor in tech to decarbonize the built environment, raising $740M. The Firm has invested in pioneering Climate Tech businesses such as Ascend Elements , Electric Hydrogen , RoadRunner , Runwise , SPAN , and Sealed , as well as announced Alok Sindher as a Partner to expand into infrastructure investing.

About Fifth Wall

Founded in 2016, Fifth Wall, a Certified B Corporation, is the largest venture capital firm focused on technology for the global real estate industry. With approximately $3.2B in commitments and capital under management, Fifth Wall connects many of the world's largest owners and operators of real estate with the entrepreneurs who are redefining the future of the Built World. Fifth Wall is backed by a global mix of more than 110 strategic Limited Partners from more than 15 countries, including BNP Paribas Real Estate, British Land, CBRE, Cushman & Wakefield, Hilton, Hines, Host Hotels & Resorts, Ivanhoe Cambridge, Kimco Realty Corporation, Lennar, Lowe's Home Improvement, Marriott International, MetLife Investment Management, MGM Resorts, Starwood Capital, Toll Brothers, and others. Fifth Wall believes this consortium represents one of the largest groups of potential partners in the global Built World ecosystem, which can result in transformational investments and collaborations with promising portfolio companies as well as decarbonization technologies. For more info about Fifth Wall, its Limited Partners, and portfolio, visit www.fifthwall.com.

Cision

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SOURCE Fifth Wall
China's tourism market will return to normal and embrace high-quality development this year, a matter of importance to the recovery of global tourism, experts and tourism insiders said. Zurab Pololikashvili, secretary-general of the World Tourism Organization, said at the recently concluded Xianghu Dialogue  a tourism-focused forum held by the World Tourism Alliance on Friday and Saturday, that China's tourism is recovering to pre-COVID levels faster than predicted, and will show good results this month. He said that 2023 is a significant year in China, and that global and Chinese efforts to restore the inbound and outbound tourism market have positively influenced global tourism. Chinese tourism industry operators are demonstrating a bullish outlook toward the domestic and inbound and outbound markets since the country revised COVID-19 control policies in January. The China Tourism Academy presented an encouraging forecast that the number of domestic tourism visits will recover to 85 percent of that in 2019, and tourism-related consumption to 75 percent of its pre-pandemic levels this year. Inbound and outbound visits are projected to reach 40 percent of 2019 levels, a figure of 300 million. "We are confident in taking a positive view of the national tourism economy this year given improved policies, greater willingness to travel and the increasing confidence of tourism operators in the sector's development," said Dai Bin, the academy's president. "China's tourism industry will return to normal and usher in high-quality development around the end of this year or early next year." Yu Dunde, CEO of the travel portal Tuniu, said that he could feel the surprising speed of the recovery. "The market began to show recovering momentum from November, after the government signaled a potential loosening of COVID-19 policies, but we didn't expect such a fast recovery. So far, the market is performing well, and we expect better results in the second quarter." Yu remains cautiously optimistic about the outbound tourism market as it will take time to resume fully. "It's a step-by-step recovery as both domestic and overseas hotels, airlines and tourism companies need time to resume services." He added that efforts must be made to attract people back to the recovering sector as tourism experienced severe brain drain over the past three years. "We've seen some of those who previously worked in tourism, switching to other industries and others becoming unemployed due to the epidemic. The most important thing, I think, is to make them confident in tourism development, as they may still worry about the effect a possible epidemic resurgence will have on their lives. But if they are confident in the industry, they will be willing to return."
Xanadu Mines Ltd.

Location of major projects

Location of major projects

TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xanadu Mines Ltd (ASX: XAM, TSX: XAM) (Xanadu or the Company) is pleased to announce that Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. (Zijin) has advised Xanadu of the receipt of regulatory approvals from the Peoples Republic of China (PRC), which completes the final key regulatory approval required to progress Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the Strategic Partnership1 between Xanadu and Zijin. The Strategic Partnership will fully fund the Companys flagship Kharmagtai Copper-Gold Project (Kharmagtai) through the next phase of project evaluation and exploration, leading to formal Decision to Mine. It will also provide funding to Xanadu for activities outside of Kharmagtai such as our second project at Red Mountain. The Company will now proceed to finalise arrangements with Zijin to progress to completion.



Highlights

Final hurdle cleared to execute Strategic Partnership and 50-50 Joint Venture (JV) with Zijin in the Kharmagtai copper-gold project.

Remaining A$7.2 million to be invested in Xanadu, at company level.

Additional US$35 million to be invested directly in Kharmagtai project.

Kharmagtai Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) and Discovery Exploration to commence March 2023.

PFS will evaluate growth-focussed opportunities in Mining & Processing Technologies and higher-grade focussed Discovery Exploration, aimed at materially upgrading the base case Scoping Study 2 .

Xanadu is Operator of the JV with an 18-month plan to complete the PFS.

Post PFS, Xanadu has options to a) independently fund its share of construction, b) sell its 50% share of the JV to Zijin for US$50M, or c) sell half its share of the JV (25%) to Zijin for US$25M plus a zero cash loan carry for the remaining 25% to commercial production 1 .

Upcoming near term announcements will outline detailed Kharmagtai PFS program of work, targeting value enhancement, Resource Definition Drilling and Discovery Exploration.

Xanadus Executive Chairman & Managing Director, Colin Moorhead said, After strong support from shareholders at the recent Xanadu Extraordinary General Meeting3, it is pleasing to now have PRC regulatory approval, clearing the final hurdle to launch our partnership with Zijin. We look forward to working with Zijin to add real value to Kharmagtai, which is already a globally significant copper-gold project. The team is ready to go with drill rigs in place and study work ready to start immediately. We expect to provide regular updates and news-flow through the next 18-month PFS period.

Story continues

Strategic Partnership

The strategic partnership4 includes three phases of investment. The first phase (Phase 1 Placement) was completed on 27 April 2022, raising A$5.56 million via a subscription by Zijin to 139 million fully paid ordinary shares in Xanadu at A$0.04 per share to provide Zijin with a 9.9% shareholding in the Company. The two subsequent phases (which were subject to further negotiation, entry into formal documentation and the remaining approvals above) include a second placement of ordinary shares at A$0.04 per share to increase Zijins total shareholding in the Company to 19.99% (Phase 2 Placement) and the creation of a 50/50 Joint Venture in Khuiten Metals Pte. Ltd., the entity currently 100% owned by Xanadu that holds a 76.5% effective interest in Kharmagtai (Phase 3 JV), for a cash investment of US$35 million.

Following the 18 month PFS, Xanadu has the option to fund its share of construction, sell its 50% of the Phase 3 JV to Zijin for US$50 million or sell half of its share of the Phase 3 JV (25%) to Zijin for US$25 million plus a loan carry for Xanadus remaining share of costs until commercial production.

PFS to Evaluate Upside in Scoping Study

The 2022 Scoping Study5 confirmed Kharmagtai as a potential world class, low cost, long life mine with an estimated 20% IRR (range 16-25%), US$630 million NPV @ 8% (range US$ 405-850 million) and 4-year payback (range 4-7 years) over 30 year mine life. This included first quartile all in sustaining costs and projected production ranges from 30-50ktpa copper and 50-110kozpa gold production during the first five years.

The Scoping Study outlined a conventional, low technical complexity open pit and process plant with low 0.9:1 strip ratio for the first five years. However, it also identified growth-focussed upside opportunities which could materially upgrade the economics of the project, all of which will be investigated during the PFS:

Oxide Processing: Top 20-30 metres of partially oxidised mineralisation cannot be processed through flotation and is conservatively treated as waste in the Scoping Study. The PFS will evaluate the use of glycine-cyanide leach technology to convert this pre-strip waste into cash generating ore.

Mining Technology: Use of electrified haulage and in-pit crush & convey technology could significantly reduce mining costs as well as Scope 1 emissions. This has the potential to deepen and extend current pit shells, incorporating additional, deep zones of high-grade ore, adding to the valuation and enhancing life of the mine.

Processing Technology: PFS will evaluate coarse ore flotation and beneficiation technologies, targeted at reducing energy requirements and operating cost per tonne of ore processed.

Exploration: Kharmagtai Mineral Resource remains open at depth and along strike. Deeper drilling at Stockwork Hill completed after the 2021 Mineral Resource has already confirmed continuation of the higher-grade bornite mineralisation at depth. There is also significant potential to grow White Hill Resource and new discoveries across the tenement. These will be investigated as a matter of priority and could prove transformational for Kharmagtai project economics.

During the PFS, Xanadu and its partner Zijin will complete all major project trade-off decisions and refine capital and operating cost estimates to +/-15-25%, leading to selection of a single go-forward option for final engineering and construction. With the study and inclusion of upside opportunities above, Xanadu is targeting a real and sustained uplift relative to the Scoping Study economics.

Location of major projects





About Xanadu Mines

Xanadu is an ASX and TSX listed Exploration company operating in Mongolia. We give investors exposure to globally significant, large-scale copper-gold discoveries and low-cost inventory growth. Xanadu maintains a portfolio of exploration projects and is operator of the globally significant Kharmagtai copper-gold project.

For further information on Xanadu, please visit: www.xanadumines.com or contact:

Colin Moorhead

Executive Chairman & Managing Director

E: colin.moorhead@xanadumines.com

P: +61 2 8280 7497 Spencer Cole

Chief Financial Officer

E: spencer.cole@xanadumines.com

P: +61 2 8280 7497

This Announcement was authorised for release by Xanadus Board of Directors.

1 ASX/TSX Announcement 21 December 2022 - Investment Deal Signed with Zijin - Pathway to Production

2 ASX/TSX Announcement 6 April 2022  Scoping Study  Kharmagtai Copper-Gold Project

3 ASX/TSX Announcement 7 Feb 2023  Results of Extraordinary General Meeting

4 ASX/TSX Announcement 21 December 2022 - Investment Deal Signed with Zijin - Pathway to Production

5 ASX/TSX Announcement 6 April 2022  Scoping Study  Kharmagtai Copper-Gold Project

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/729d0626-ac03-47cb-8242-2bced50481c5




Fireweed Metals Corp.

Macmillan Pass Project and Mactung Projects

Map 1: Macmillan Pass Project and Mactung Project Locations.

Macmillan Pass Project: Boundary Zone Drilling

Map 2: Boundary Zone drilling map with holes in this news release labeled. Green lines refer to Cross Sections F-F and G-G.

Core from drill hole NB22-021

Image 1: Core from drill hole NB22-021 - 96.2 m to 102.9 m showing very high-grade veins and breccias with abundant red-brown sphalerite infill, from an interval (96.53 m to 103.2 m) of 6.7 m grading 34.5% zinc, 0.13% lead, and 56.7 g/t silver. Image is a from a very-high resolution core scanning photomosaic with core boxes and blocks masked.

Boundary Main Cross Section F-F

Cross Section F-F: Highlights of new results from holes NB22-018, NB22-020, and NB22-021. For complete results see Table 2. Section line runs through collar of NB22-021 at an azimuth of 202. For results from NB21-005 see Fireweed news release dated November 18th 2021.

Boundary Main Cross Section G-G

Cross Section G-G: Highlights of new results from holes NB22-009, NB22-010, NB22-011 and NB22-013. For complete results see Table 2. Section line runs half-way between NB22-009 and NB22-010 at an azimuth of 209.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FIREWEED METALS CORP. (Fireweed or the Company) (TSXV: FWZ; OTCQB: FWEDF, formerly Fireweed Zinc Ltd.) is pleased to announce additional results from the 2022 drill program at Boundary Zone, Macmillan Pass zinc-lead-silver project, Yukon, Canada (Map 1).



Highlights

A high grade and wide intersection of zinc mineralization in NB22-021 for 105 metres (m) of 8.4% zinc and 12.1 g/t silver starting from surface.

A new stratiform zone in NB22-018 returned 8 m of 11.5% zinc, 1.7% lead, and 61 g/t silver.

All holes completed hit zinc mineralization.

Results from the last five (5) holes from Boundary Zone and nine (9) holes from the Tom deposit are pending.

CEO Statement

Brandon Macdonald, CEO, stated Boundary Main Zone continues to impress with not only the wide tenor of mineralization but also with high-grade intervals. Equally important is the discovery of a new stratiform zone where we expect to see good continuity of mineralization consistent with similar zones at Tom, Jason and Boundary West. With a large drill campaign planned for the summer we are looking forward to testing the extents of mineralization in these zones and growing our already world-class metal endowment.

Boundary Zone Drilling Results

The following drill results (Tables 1 and 2) are from seven (7) drill holes located at Boundary Zone (Maps 1 and 2), all within the Boundary Main area. The last results from five (5) holes from Boundary Main and nine (9) holes from the Tom zinc-lead-silver deposit 2022 drill program are still pending.

Table 1: Boundary Zone 2022 Drill Result Highlights from this News Release.

Drill hole Interval From

(m) To

(m) Interval*

(m) Zinc

(%) Lead

(%) Silver

(g/t) Bulk

Density

(t/m3) NB22-009

primary 3.50 119.32 115.82 3.57 0.02 5.4 3.238 >including 18.00 36.50 18.50 7.83 0.06 11.9 3.691 NB22-010 primary 29.50 69.20 39.70 5.72 0.05 11.2 3.073 NB22-011



primary 37.00 60.00 23.00 7.61 0.03 10.1 3.179 >including 42.10 52.70 10.60 12.28 0.04 15.2 3.328 primary 237.00 263.00 26.00 6.62 0.28 12.4 3.240 >including 247.50 254.00 6.50 15.98 0.24 20.6 4.024 NB22-013

primary 70.36 119.63 49.27 3.37 0.32 12.0 3.057 >including 70.36 80.51 10.15 10.24 0.03 19.0 2.939 NB22-018

primary 40.67 182.50 141.83 2.87 0.46 12.7 2.982 >including 107.00 115.00 8.00 11.53 1.69 61.0 3.916 NB22-020

primary 4.20 94.90 90.70 4.70 0.03 6.7 2.969 >including 4.20 48.50 44.30 6.71 0.02 7.6 2.997 >>including 4.20 16.70 12.50 11.19 0.04 12.0 3.024 primary 122.20 127.15 4.95 4.98 2.10 37.9 3.082 NB22-021

primary 7.00 112.00 105.00 8.37 0.05 12.1 2.966 >including 7.00 34.80 27.80 13.15 0.04 16.5 3.211 >and 90.48 103.23 12.75 24.87 0.10 41.7 3.159 >>including 96.53 103.23 6.70 34.46 0.13 56.7 3.301 >>>including 99.40 103.23 3.83 39.97 0.18 62.6 3.419

*Intersected thicknesses, not true thicknesses, are stated for all intersections in Table 1. Due to the early stage of drilling, true thicknesses cannot be accurately stated for these holes. Values in this table may differ slightly from the text due to rounding.

Story continues

NB22-018, NB22-020 and NB22-021

These three (3) holes were collared from the same pad, forming a fan of holes that intersected high grade sphalerite-pyrite vein and breccia mineralization from surface to depths of up to ~100 m in the hangingwall of the Boundary Main Fault (Cross Section F-F and Map 2). Hole NB22-021 intersected 105 m of 8.4% zinc, and 12.1 g/t silver including both an intersection from surface grading 13.2% zinc and 16.5 g/t silver over 27.8 m and an intersection of spectacularly high-grade zinc mineralization grading 24.9% zinc and 41.7 g/t over 12.75 m including 3.83 m of 40.0% zinc and 62.6 g/t silver (see Image 1 and Tables 1 and 2). Holes NB22-018 and NB22-020 also intersected wide intervals of zinc mineralization in the near surface: 141.8 m of 2.9% zinc, 0.5% lead, and 12.7 g/t silver, and 90.7 m of 4.7% zinc, and 6.7 g/t silver, respectively.

Holes NB22-018 and NB22-020 penetrated the Boundary Main fault and intersected a new zone of stratiform zinc mineralization in black carbonaceous mudstones and diamictites comprising laminated, semi-massive, and massive sphalerite-pyrite grading 11.5% zinc, 1.7% lead, and 61.0 g/t silver over 8 m in NB22-018 and 5.0% zinc, 2.1% lead, and 37.9 g/t silver over 5 m in NB22-020 (see Cross Section F-F, and Tables 1 and 2). This stratiform zone is interpreted to correlate stratigraphically with the Tom-Jason deposits. The stratiform zone is correlated spatially to zinc-lead mineralization in surrounding holes: in several holes to the east, it appears to be less mineralized and is interpreted as the fringes of the zone; whereas to the west, it appears to be significantly better mineralized in NB22-022 and NB22-023 and is interpreted to be the direction towards the feeder.

NB22-009 and NB22-011

These two (2) holes were collared from the same pad and include wide intervals of vein-hosted mineralization near surface at Boundary Main: NB22-009 returned 115.8 m of 3.6% zinc and 5.4 g/t silver, including 18.5 m of 7.8% zinc and 12.0 g/t silver from a downhole depth of 18 m; NB22-011 intersected 23 m of 7.6% zinc and 10.1 g/t silver including 10.6 m of 12.3% zinc and 15.2 g/t silver (see Cross Section G-G, Map 2 and Tables 1 and 2).

Hole NB22-011 intersected zinc mineralization in the footwall of the Boundary Main Fault in volcaniclastic rocks for 26 m grading 6.6% zinc and 12.4 g/t silver including 6.5 m of 16.0% zinc and 20.6 g/t silver. This intersection represents a 60 m step out from similar mineralization in holes to the west. Drilling was unable to advance through the fault in hole NB22-009 due to adverse drilling conditions and the target in the footwall remains untested at this location.

NB22-010 and NB22-013

These two (2) holes were collared from the same pad as infill holes at Boundary Main (see Cross Section G-G and Map 2). Both holes successfully intersected sphalerite vein mineralization in the hangingwall of the Boundary Main fault. Hole NB22-010 intersected 39.7 m of 5.7% zinc and 11.2 g/t silver, including some higher-grade veins: 4 m of 13.5% zinc, 2.9 m of 12.8% zinc, 3.5 m of 10.1% zinc, and 3.7 m of 11.1% zinc (Table 2). Hole NB22-013 intersected 49.3 m of 3.4% zinc and 12.0 g/t silver including 10.2 m of 10.2% zinc and 19.0 g/t silver.

Data verification

The diamond drill core logging and sampling program was carried out under a rigorous quality assurance / quality control program using industry best practices. Drill intersections in this release are HQ3 (split tube) size core (61.1 mm / 2.406-inch diameter) or NQ2 size core (50.5 mm / 1.99-inch diameter) with recoveries typically above 85% unless otherwise noted in the table of results. After drilling, core was cleaned, scanned with a core scanning machine, logged for geology, structure, and geotechnical characteristics, then marked for sampling and photographed on site. The cores for analyses were marked for sampling based on geological intervals with individual samples 2 m or less in length. Drill core was cut lengthwise in half with a core saw; half-core was sent for assays reported in this news release, and the other half is stored on site for reference. Bulk density was determined on site for the entire length of each sample assayed by measurement of mass in air and mass in water. Sample duplicate bulk density determinations and in-house bulk density standard determinations were each made at a rate of 5%. Since 2017, four (4) in-house bulk density standards (mineralized drill core from the Tom deposit that span a range of densities) have been used and show an acceptable long-term precision. Certified standard masses are used to calibrate the scale balance used for bulk density determinations.

A total of 5% assay standards or blanks and 5% core duplicates are included in the sample stream as a quality control measure and are reviewed after analyses are received. Standards and blanks in 2022 drill results to date have been approved as acceptable. Duplicate data add to the long-term estimates of precision for assay data on the project and precision for drill results reported is deemed to be within acceptable levels. Samples were sent to the Bureau Veritas preparation laboratory in Whitehorse, Yukon, where the samples were crushed and a 500 g split was sent to the Bureau Veritas laboratory in Vancouver, British Columbia to be pulverized to 85% passing 200 mesh size pulps. Clean crush material was passed through the crusher and clean silica was pulverized between each sample. The pulps were analyzed by 1:1:1 Aqua Regia digestion followed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-ES/ICP-MS) multi-element analyses (BV Code AQ270). All samples were also analyzed for multiple elements by lithium borate fusion and X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) finish (BV Code LF725). Over-limit Pb (>25.0%) and Zn (>24.0%) were analyzed by lithium borate fusion with XRF finish (BV Code LF726). Silver is reported in this news release by method AQ270, and zinc and lead are reported by LF725 or LF726. Bureau Veritas (Vancouver) is an independent, international ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accredited laboratory.

Results in this news release are length and bulk-density weighted averages as would be used in a Mineral Resource estimate. Readers are cautioned that in Fireweed news releases prior to 2020, only length weighted assay averages were reported which may result in slightly lower (under-reported) average values. Length and bulk-density weighted averages have been reported as these most accurately represent the average metal-content of the intersections.

Qualified Person Statement

Technical information in this news release has been approved by Fireweed Metals Chief Geologist, Jack Milton, Ph.D., P.Geo. (BC), and a Qualified Person as defined under Canadian National Instrument 43-101.

About Fireweed Metals Corp. (TSXV: FWZ; OTCQB: FWEDF; FSE:20F): Fireweed Metals is a public mineral exploration company on the leading edge of Critical Minerals project development. Fireweed is well-funded, with a current cash position of C$38,600,000, and is well-positioned to carry out a large 2023 exploration program. The Company has three projects located in Canada:

Macmillan Pass Zinc-Lead-Silver Project: Fireweed owns 100% of the district-scale 940 km 2 Macmillan Pass project in Yukon, Canada, which is host to the Tom and Jason zinc-lead-silver deposits with current Mineral Resources and a PEA economic study (see Fireweed news releases dated 10 th January 2018, and 23 rd May 2018, respectively, and reports filed on www.sedar.com for details) as well as the Boundary Zone, Boundary Zone West, Tom North Zone and End Zone which have significant zinc-lead-silver mineralization drilled but not yet classified as mineral resources. The project also includes large blocks of adjacent claims with known showings and significant upside exploration potential. The large 2022 drill program utilizing four drills is complete and assay results are being announced as they are received and interpreted.

Mactung Tungsten Project: The Company has a binding Letter of Intent to acquire 100% interest in the 37.6 km 2 Mactung Tungsten Project located adjacent to the Macmillan Pass Project. Mactung contains historic resources that make it one of the largest and highest-grade undeveloped resources in the world of the Critical Mineral tungsten. Located in Canada, it is one of the rare large tungsten resources outside of China. Due diligence and validation work on historic data has been completed and a second phase of relogging and sampling of historic drill core has begun and will support a new mineral resource estimate.

Gayna River Zinc-Lead-Gallium-Germanium Project: Fireweed has 100% of the 128.75 km2 Gayna River project located 180 km north of the Macmillan Pass project. It is host to extensive mineralization including Critical Minerals zinc, gallium and germanium as well as lead and silver, outlined by 28,000 m of historic drilling and significant upside potential. Results from the 2022 field program of geochemical sampling, airborne LiDAR topographic surveying and ground geophysics are now being interpreted toward defining drill targets.



In Canada, Fireweed (TSXV: FWZ) trades on the TSX Venture Exchange. In the USA, Fireweed (OTCQB: FWEDF) trades on the OTCQB Venture Market for early stage and developing U.S. and international companies and is DTC eligible for enhanced electronic clearing and settlement. The Company is current in its reporting, and undergoes an annual verification and management certification process. Investors can find Real-Time quotes and market information for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com. In Europe, Fireweed (FSE: 20F) trades on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

Additional information about Fireweed and its projects can be found on the Companys website at FireweedMetals.com and at www.sedar.com.

ON BEHALF OF FIREWEED METALS CORP.

Brandon Macdonald

CEO & Director

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and information (forward-looking statements). All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included herein, including, without limitation, statements relating to interpretation of drill results, future work plans, the use of funds, and the potential of the Companys projects, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects, "anticipates, "believes, "intends, "estimates, "potential, "possible, and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will, "may, "could, or "should occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of Company management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to Company management and reflect the beliefs, opinions, and projections on the date the statements are made. Forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties and accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include but are not limited to, exploration and development risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, expenditure and financing requirements, general economic conditions, changes in financial markets, the ability to properly and efficiently staff the Companys operations, the sufficiency of working capital and funding for continued operations, title matters, First Nations relations, operating hazards, political and economic factors, competitive factors, metal prices, relationships with vendors and strategic partners, governmental regulations and oversight, permitting, seasonality and weather, technological change, industry practices, uncertainties involved in the interpretation of drilling results and laboratory tests, and one-time events. The Company assumes no obligation to update forwardlooking statements or beliefs, opinions, projections or other factors, except as required by law.

Contact:

Brandon Macdonald

Phone: (604) 646-8361

Email: info@fireweedmetals.com

Map 1: Macmillan Pass Project and Mactung Project Locations.

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/95b05549-4728-430e-bfcd-14ff5f00966c

Map 2: Boundary Zone drilling map with holes in this news release labeled. Green lines refer to Cross Sections F-F and G-G.

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/930ac89f-b682-46ca-9acf-e7d683da53f5

Image 1: Core from drill hole NB22-021 - 96.2 m to 102.9 m showing very high-grade veins and breccias with abundant red-brown sphalerite infill, from an interval (96.53 m to 103.2 m) of 6.7 m grading 34.5% zinc, 0.13% lead, and 56.7 g/t silver. Image is a from a very-high resolution core scanning photomosaic with core boxes and blocks masked.

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/05c9ab24-913b-418d-b183-62e697eca22c

Cross Section F-F: Highlights of new results from holes NB22-018, NB22-020, and NB22-021. For complete results see Table 2. Section line runs through collar of NB22-021 at an azimuth of 202. For results from NB21-005 see Fireweed news release dated November 18th 2021.

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d5bf589-ab7b-49ca-90f7-752728f60079

Cross Section G-G: Highlights of new results from holes NB22-009, NB22-010, NB22-011 and NB22-013. For complete results see Table 2. Section line runs half-way between NB22-009 and NB22-010 at an azimuth of 209.

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d8f757fc-ce4f-4437-864f-150911f5b9fa

Table 2: Boundary Zone 2022 Full Table of Drill Results from this News Release.

Drill hole Interval From

(m) To (m) Interval*

(m) Zinc

(%) Lead

(%) Silver

(g/t) Bulk Density

(t/m3) NB22-009

primary 3.50 119.32 115.82 3.57 0.02 5.4 3.238 >including 18.00 36.50 18.50 7.83 0.06 11.9 3.691 >>including 34.18 36.50 2.32 19.22 0.05 28.5 4.126 >and 69.20 70.65 1.45 27.49 0.17 32.0 3.845 >and 92.45 94.75 2.30 15.85 0.05 23.5 3.546 NB22-010

primary 29.50 69.20 39.70 5.72 0.05 11.2 3.073 >including 32.50 36.54 4.04 13.47 0.10 24.7 3.226 >and 41.00 43.86 2.86 12.75 0.10 27.9 3.714 >and 55.50 59.00 3.50 10.12 0.07 20.5 3.102 >and 65.50 69.20 3.70 11.13 0.15 22.5 3.186 primary 88.00 91.00 3.00 3.23 1.66 29.4 3.589 NB22-011

primary 37.00 60.00 23.00 7.61 0.03 10.1 3.179 >including 42.10 52.70 10.60 12.28 0.04 15.2 3.328 >>including 50.50 52.70 2.20 29.13 0.10 31.3 3.642 primary 127.00 150.5 23.50 2.71 0.64 10.0 2.848 >including 131.00 134.00 3.00 7.44 2.81 33.9 3.131 primary 177.00 180.00 3.00 6.31 0.08 4.2 2.937 primary 237.00 263.00 26.00 6.62 0.28 12.4 3.240 >including 247.50 254.00 6.50 15.98 0.24 20.6 4.024 NB22-013

primary 25.58 31.50 5.92 8.11 0.02 7.5 2.753 primary 37.50 40.50 3.00 3.53 0.01 4.3 2.825 primary 70.36 119.63 49.27 3.37 0.32 12.0 3.057 >including 70.36 80.51 10.15 10.24 0.03 19.0 2.939 >>including 76.00 80.51 4.51 16.88 0.04 31.2 3.196 NB22-018

primary 14.00 19.50 5.50 4.94 0.01 2.7 3.449 primary 40.67 182.50 141.83 2.87 0.46 12.7 2.982 >including 40.67 49.50 8.83 7.42 0.06 13.4 2.822 >and 80.00 81.50 1.50 31.25 6.46 29.8 3.844 >and 107.00 115.00 8.00 11.53 1.69 61.0 3.916 NB22-020

primary 4.20 94.90 90.70 4.70 0.03 6.7 2.969 >including 4.20 48.50 44.30 6.71 0.02 7.6 2.997 >>including 4.20 16.70 12.50 11.19 0.04 12.0 3.024 >and 42.30 46.10 3.80 11.04 0.02 14.5 2.641 primary 122.20 142.40 20.20 2.37 1.24 21.0 2.947 >including 122.20 127.15 4.95 4.98 2.10 37.9 3.082 NB22-021

primary 7.00 112.00 105.00 8.37 0.05 12.1 2.966 >including 7.00 34.80 27.80 13.15 0.04 16.5 3.211 >>including 13.16 14.49 1.33 45.20 0.14 66.1 3.677 >and 90.48 103.23 12.75 24.87 0.10 41.7 3.159 >>including 96.53 103.23 6.70 34.46 0.13 56.7 3.301 >>>including 99.40 103.23 3.83 39.97 0.18 62.6 3.419

*Intersected thicknesses, not true thicknesses, are stated for all intersections in Table 2. Due to the early stage of drilling, true thicknesses cannot be accurately stated for these holes. Values in this table may differ from the text due to rounding.

Table 3: Summary of Drill Results from 2022 Program.

Drill hole Zone Hole

Length (m) Significant Intersections Type NB22-001 BW 463 Reported on Nov 22 2022 Infill & Step-out NB22-002 BW 491 Reported on Nov 22 2022 Step-out & New Discovery NB22-003 BW 64 Hole abandoned - NB22-004 BW 403 Reported on Feb 15 2022 Step-out NB22-005 BM 326 Reported on Jan 31 2023 Step-out NB22-006 BM 375 Reported on Jan 31 2023 Step-out NB22-007 BW 365 Reported on Feb 15 2022 Step-out NB22-008 BM 213 Reported on Jan 31 2023 Step-out & New Discovery NB22-009 BM 147.5 Reported in this release Infill NB22-010 BM 91 Reported in this release Infill NB22-011 BM 265.3 Reported in this release Infill & Step-out NB22-012 BM 353 Wide zone Step-out NB22-013 BM 125.4 Reported in this release Infill NB22-014 BM 31 Hole abandoned - NB22-015 BM 145 Moderate zone Infill NB22-016 BM 57.4 Hole abandoned - NB22-017 BM 80 Wide zone Infill NB22-018 BM 270 Reported in this release Infill, Step-out & New Discovery NB22-019 BW 340 Reported on Feb 15 2022 Infill & Step-out NB22-020 BM 149 Reported in this release Infill & Step-out NB22-021 BM 112 Reported in this release Infill NB22-022 BM 327 Wide zone Step-out & New Discovery NB22-023 BM 367 Wide zone Step-out & New Discovery TS22-001 TW 200 Wide zone Infill TS22-002 TE 170.9 Wide zone Infill TS22-003 TW 125 Wide zone Infill TS22-004 TW 214.2 Wide zone Infill TS22-005 TW 128 Wide zone Infill TS22-006 TW 190.5 Wide zone Infill TS22-007 TW 86 Wide zone Infill TS22-008 TW 61 Wide zone Infill TS22-009 TW 335 Wide zone Infill

All assays pending unless otherwise indicated. BM: Boundary Main; BW: Boundary West; TW: Tom West; TE: Tom East.

Table 4: 2022 Drill Collar Details.

Drill hole Target Length

(m) Easting Northing Elevation

(m.s.l) Azimuth

() Dip

() NB22-001 Boundary 463 421861 7010461 1178 030 -58 NB22-002 Boundary 491 421940 7010405 1164 033 -57 NB22-003 Boundary 64 422105 7010683 1238 211 -76 NB22-004 Boundary 403 422105 7010683 1238 211 -76 NB22-005 Boundary 326 422230 7010524 1193 214 -50 NB22-006 Boundary 375 422539 7010536 1195 207 -55 NB22-007 Boundary 365 421940 7010405 1164 036 -47 NB22-008 Boundary 213 422274 7010600 1217 209 -68 NB22-009 Boundary 147.5 422438 7010417 1165 208 -50 NB22-010 Boundary 91 422390 7010385 1152 205 -50 NB22-011 Boundary 265.3 422440 7010419 1164 208 -69 NB22-012 Boundary 353 422342 7010620 1219 201 -65 NB22-013 Boundary 125.4 422390 7010386 1150 205 -70 NB22-014 Boundary 31 422330 7010384 1146 212 -50 NB22-015 Boundary 145 422331 7010385 1146 212 -75 NB22-016 Boundary 57.4 422330 7010384 1146 212 -55 NB22-017 Boundary 80 422331 7010385 1147 212 -85 NB22-018 Boundary 270 422308 7010434 1166 216 -58 NB22-019 Boundary 340 421948 7010672 1232 180 -57 NB22-020 Boundary 149 422308 7010435 1166 216 -72 NB22-021 Boundary 112 422309 7010435 1167 216 -82 NB22-022 Boundary 327 422292 7010474 1182 211 -56 NB22-023 Boundary 367 422292 7010474 1182 211 -70 TS22-001 Tom West 200 441994 7003679 1545 060 -80 TS22-002 Tom East 170.9 442063 7004322 1677 060 -90 TS22-003 Tom West 125 441994 7003680 1545 065 -55 TS22-004 Tom West 214.2 441993 7003679 1545 065 -89 TS22-005 Tom West 128 442046 7003767 1533 063 -50 TS22-006 Tom West 190.5 442044 7003582 1581 049 -75 TS22-007 Tom West 86 441943 7003969 1538 066 -80 TS22-008 Tom West 61 441945 7003970 1538 066 -45 TS22-009 Tom West 335 442043 7003581 1581 049 -89

Coordinate reference system: UTM Zone 9 NAD83. North reference: UTM grid north.




The First Case of Successful Delivery of Patient with COVID-19 in Guangzhou

GUANGZHOU, China, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "Mother and daughter are safe, the child is 2.85 kilograms." In the early morning of November 1st, director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Liang Huichao said, and the worried medical staff of the Eighth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (hereinafter referred to as "Guangzhou Eighth Hospital") could finally put their hearts at rest.

Huichao Liang and her team took a group photo with patient Wenwen

It turned out that Ms. Chen was more than 36 weeks pregnant, and she was found to be infected with the COVID-19, and was quickly sent to Guangzhou Eighth Hospital for treatment. However, she suddenly had a fever, frequent fetal movements, and fetal heart rate monitoring also suggested "fetal hypoxia", and her condition was critical. The hospital performed an urgent cesarean section on her, and the baby was delivered quickly. Currently, the newborn is doing well and has a negative nucleic acid test. This is the first case of successful delivery of pregnant women with new coronary pneumonia in Guangzhou.

There are many unexpected factors in maternal childbirth. Unlike other women who gave birth, Ms. Chen was infected with corona virus, and there is a high possibility of respiratory transmission of the virus. For this reason, the medical staff of the obstetric operating room specially adopted protection. Liang Huichao said: "We have set up an operating room in the isolation ward, and personnel from obstetrics and gynecology, hospital infection prevention and control management, anesthesiology and other departments have put on protective clothing, masks and medical protective masks."

The emergency cesarean section took only about 40 minutes and went smoothly. "The Guangzhou Eighth Hospital began to work on relevant emergency plans and drills very early. We have set up several working groups, including the new crown maternal treatment team, the neonatal treatment team and the nursing team. Previously, our obstetrics and gynecology team had used emergency operating rooms and had practical experience. Liang Huichao said.

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Huichao Liang is the head of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital that receives and treats pregnant and lying-in women infected with COVID-19, responsible for managing an isolation ward, and also responsible for the treatment of pregnant and lying-in women infected with COVID-19, as well as the consultation of obstetrics and gynecology in this hospital and other hospitals.

Liang Huichao said: "Under the escort of the neonatal specialist medical team, the fetus was delivered safely in the early morning of November 1. The newborn is just 37 weeks full, weighs 2.85 kg, and the child has received a perfect score of 10 on one-minute, five-minute and ten-minute scores, which is very good. It is reported that the baby's nucleic acid test is currently negative, and further evaluation and dynamic monitoring are needed. After giving birth, Ms. Chen's symptoms caused by COVID-19 infection will also be relieved to a certain extent.

The First Emergency Operation Performed for COVID-19 Patients in Guangdong

Moreover, Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital is also the first hospital to perform emergency operation for COVID-19 patients in Guangdong. On the morning of February 3, 2020, Huichao Liang received a consultation request from the second isolation area. It turned out that Wenwen (pseudonym), a patient infected with COVID-19, suddenly suffered from abdominal pain and lower body bleeding. After conducting a detailed examination of Wenwen, Huichao Liang confirmed that her ovarian cyst had ruptured and an emergency surgery to remove the ovarian cyst was required immediately." The patient was very depressed, collapsed, and kept crying." Huichao Liang recalled. Wenwen's mother was a critical COVID-19 patient and was being rescued in the ICU. Her father was in isolation in a hotel, and her husband was in Wuhan. Wenwen felt that the whole sky was about to collapse.

Taking advantage of the time gap before the operation, Huichao Liang chatted with Wenwen, analyzed her situation and told her that according to her current condition an operation must be done and there was no possibility of conservative treatment with drugs.

The risk of the surgery for Wenwen is equivalent to that of ICU intubation for a COVID-19 patient. Therefore, medical staff must first put on a full set of protective clothing and then wear surgical gowns, N95 masks plus surgical masks, and safety goggles, implementing three-level protection. As the breathing and field of vision are limited, the surgery had "to be ended as soon as possible" in order to minimize the impact on the patient. More than 3 hours later, the operation was successfully completed. The molecular pathological test after operation confirmed that the virus had invaded the ovarian tissue. This was Huichao Liang's first operation under level III protection. The operation was also the first emergency operation performed for COVID-19 patients in Guangdong Province, providing the guidelines for the formulation of the surgical procedure under level III protection.

Huichao Liang's personal phone number was announced to the whole hospital by Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital. When receiving the epidemic emergency notice from the hospital, Huichao Liang was the first person in the hospital to cancel the vacation and return to the hospital to stand by. She said, "I am worried that if there is a co-infection occurred on pregnant and lying-in women, the situation will be very serious." During the entire epidemic period, she was in charge of all emergency cases related to the obstetrics and gynecology department and was 24 hours online. Huichao Liang had to go to the isolation ward and ICU almost every day.

On February 18, Wenwen recovered and was discharged from the hospital.

Cision

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SOURCE Guangzhou Eighth People's Hospital
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - First Hydrogen Corp. (TSXV: FHYD) (OTC Pink: FHYDF) (FSE: FIT) ("FIRST HYDROGEN" or the "Company") is completing mileage accumulation and vehicle evaluation to optimise the efficiency of its zero-emission light commercial vehicles (LCVs) ahead of the vehicles' deployment with fleet customers in March 2023. Evaluations are being conducted with powertrain specialists AVL Powertrain, which put the vehicles through a range of real-world duty cycles, including urban, rural and highways routes. Based on the vehicle weight, battery size and powertrain energy consumption, First Hydrogen's two LCVs have an expected range of 400-600km, depending on the route, on a single refuelling, which takes less than 5 minutes.

Data collected from the two hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered vehicles (FCEV) will allow First Hydrogen to accurately determine fuel consumption and vehicle range in different driving scenarios. It will enable the Company to utilize AI for predicting energy consumption, optimising fuel efficiency and identifying areas for further development. The data will capture the real-world capabilities of First Hydrogen's future zero-emission vehicles, starting with its Generation II vehicle.

The data allows comparison to simulations made for the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) testing that is part of EU law. A global standard, WLTP is used by buyers and commercial fleet managers to compare vehicles' energy consumption, emissions, and, for electric vehicles, range calculations. Tests will take place until mid-March and data analysis will follow. Initial figures are expected by mid-March 2023 and will support First Hydrogen engineers to showcase the vehicles' competitive Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), which is key information for commercial fleet managers investing in new vehicles. The data will also allow potential customers to draw true comparisons between FCEVs, battery electric vehicles and vehicles with internal combustion engines.

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The tests will be completed before First Hydrogen deploys its two vans for trials with major fleet operators in the UK as part of a programme with the Aggregated Hydrogen Freight Consortium (AFHC). These operational trials offer companies, including national supermarkets, utilities, roadside assistance, and healthcare providers, the chance to experience zero-emission LCVs alongside their own fleets.

Stephen Pendrey, Chief Engineer for First Hydrogen Automotive, says: "These tests are an important part of our vehicle development and help us to ensure the vehicle is performing as efficiently as possible and in line with expectations. The data enables us to factor in vehicle weight and payload to calculate the amount of energy used for propulsion. The results provide verifiable data on expected range per kilogram of hydrogen used. This information shows commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers the output they can expect in specific conditions and illustrates the financial benefits of switching to a FCEV."

About First Hydrogen Corp. (FirstHydrogen.com)

First Hydrogen Corp. is a Vancouver and London UK-based company focused on zero-emission vehicles, green hydrogen production and distribution and supercritical carbon dioxide extractor systems. The Company is designing and building hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered light commercial demonstrator vehicles ("LCV") under two agreements with AVL Powertrain and Ballard Power Systems Inc. The LCV will have a range of 500+ kilometres. At the same time, the Company has launched its bespoke vehicle design phase which will develop its fleet of proprietary zero-emission vehicles. First Hydrogen is also developing refueling capability working with FEV Consulting GmbH, the automotive consultancy of FEV Group of Aachen Germany. As well, the Company is pursuing opportunities in green hydrogen production and distribution in the UK, EU and North America.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of

FIRST HYDROGEN CORP.

"Balraj Mann"

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Contact:

Balraj Mann

First Hydrogen Corp.

604-601-2018

investors@firsthydrogen.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains information or statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by words such as "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.

Forward looking information may include, without limitation, statements regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, milestones, strategies and outlook of First Hydrogen, and includes statements about, among other things, future developments and the future operations, strengths and strategies of First Hydrogen. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results.

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The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of First Hydrogen as of the date of this news 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. First Hydrogen undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

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Fortune Business Insights

The global FMCG logistics market size is projected to grow from USD 105.85 billion in 2021 to USD 131.54 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 3.15% during the 2021-2028 period. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the global FMCG logistics market continues to exhibit promising growth prospects, with innovative technologies and sustainable practices driving the market forward.

Pune, India, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global FMCG logistics market size was USD 103.57 billion in 2020. The market is projected to grow from USD 105.85 billion in 2021 to USD 131.54 billion in 2028 at a CAGR of 3.15% during the 2021-2028 period. Fortune Business Insights publishes this information in its report titled, FMCG Logistics Market, 2021-2028.

According to our analysts, proper management through the supply chain activities in each region, storage and transportation services helps the FMCG logistics industry achieve its business goal.

Industry Development

May 2021: SupplyOn, which is the supply chain business network for the automotive, aerospace, railway, and manufacturing industries, has been acknowledged for the third time in a row as a leader in Gartner Magic Quadrant Multienterprise Supply Chain Business Networks.

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Report Highlights:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2021-2028 Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 3.15% 2028 Value Projection USD 131.54 Billion Base Year 2020 Market Size in 2020 USD 103.57 Billion Historical Data for 2017-2019 No. of Pages 150 Segments covered FMCG Logistics Market Size, Share & COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Transportation Mode (Railways, Airways, Roadways and Seaways), By Product Type (Food & Beverages, Personal Care, Household Care, and Other Consumables) Growth Drivers Rise in Implementation of IoT-Empowered Connected Devices to Fuel Market Growth Collaborations among Companies to Safeguard Their Brand Values in Global Market

Drivers and Restraints

Progressive technological movements and their adoption in FMCG applications have completely modified the FMCG logistics market. Companies have begun preparing their FMCG supply chain by integrating novel-period technologies, such as IoT, analytics, big data, and robotics.

Story continues

Executing modern technology in logistics, such as drone delivery, has deteriorated the lead time and catalogue records for FMCG companies, thereby accomplishing their consumer demand for fast delivery. This factor is projected to spur the FMCG logistics market growth and elevate demand during the mentioned timeframe.

COVID-19 Impact

Mobility Limitations Inflicted Owing to COVID-19 Set to Hinder Market Growth

The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse impact on the supply chain and logistics industry, as it had been delayed due to the prompt spread of COVID-19 in the world. This pandemic has triggered enormous ambiguity and panic for all industrial value chain members involved. Furthermore, according to Institute for Supply Management research, supply chain commotions have budded worldwide, and nearly 76% of businesses have had to decline revenue goals by an aggregate of 23%.

To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market, please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/fmcg-logistics-market-106299

Report Coverage

The report presents a holistic study of the FMCG logistics market and current trends and future expectancies to establish proximate investment gains. An in-depth analysis of any upcoming opportunities, threats, competitions, or driving factors is also mentioned in the report. Step by step, a thorough regional analysis is offered.

The COVID-19 impacts have been added to the report to help investors and business owners understand the threats better. The top players in the market are identified, and their strategies to bolster the market growth are shared in the report.

Segmentation

Based on the mode of transportation, the market is segmented into Railways, Airways, Roadways, and Seaways. The roadways segment holds the largest share globally and is projected to preserve its leading position in the market throughout the forecast period.

The market is segmented into food & beverages, personal care, household care, and other consumables in terms of product type.

Geographically, the global market is segregated into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the rest of the world.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific region is expected to exhibit the highest CAGR during the forecast period and also held the maximum FMCG logistics market share. The sector has been perceiving sturdy growth, navigated by augmented expenditure power among the middle-income class and deteriorating cost of production, which was a consequence of commoditization.

North America holds the second-largest position in the market as the existence of a varied coastline is approved with a wealth of travel destinations.

Europe region is anticipated to be the fastest-growing region in the upcoming years.

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Competitive Landscape

Indispensable players in the market are constantly opting for operative approaches to promote their products and establish their positions in the market. One such stratagem is to unveil novel products by merging or collaborating with other companies to expand their availability to end-users.

List of Key Players Covered in the FMCG Logistics Market Report

DHL Group (Bonn, Germany)

Kuehne + Nagel (Schindellegi, Switzerland)

C.H. Robinson (Minnesota, U.S.)

Ceva Logistics (Marseille, France)

FedEx Corporation (Tennessee, U.S.)

Nippon Express (Tokyo, Japan)

DB Schenker (Essen, Germany)

Agility Logistics (California, U.S.)

Bollore Logistics (Puteaux, France)

FM Logistics (Roissy-en-France, France)

FMCG Logistics Market Segmentation:-

By Transportation Mode

Railways

Airways

Roadways

Seaways

By Product Type

Food & Beverages

Personal Care

Household Care

Other Consumables

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Table of Content:-

1. Introduction

1.1. Research Scope

1.2. Market Segmentation

1.3. Research Methodology

1.4. Definitions and Assumptions

2. Executive Summary

3. Market Dynamics

3.1. Market Drivers

3.2. Market Restraints

3.3. Market Opportunities

4. Key Insights

4.1 Key Industry Developments - Merger, Acquisitions, and Partnerships

4.2 Distribution Analysis

4.3 Porters Five Forces Analysis

4.4 PEST Analysis

4.5 Technological Developments

4.6 Impact of COVID-19

5. Global FMCG Logistics Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028

5.1. Key Findings / Summary

5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Mode Of Transportation

5.2.1 Railways

5.2.2 Airways

5.2.3 Roadways

5.2.4 Seaways

5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type

5.3.1 Food & Beverages

5.3.2 Personal Care

5.3.3 Household Care

5.3.4 Other Consumables

5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region

5.4.1 North America

5.4.2 Europe

5.4.3 Asia Pacific

5.4.4 Rest of the World

TOC CONTINUED.

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Market Research Future

Genetic Testing Market Size and Trends Analysis By Type (Prescribed Genetic Testing and Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing), Method (Molecular Genetic Tests/ DNA Tests, Chromosomal Genetic Tests and Biochemical Genetic Tests), By Application (Reproductive Health (Newborn Screening, Prenatal Screening and Carrier Screening), Cancer Screening (Hereditary Cancer, Breast Cancer, Ovarian Cancer and Colon Cancer), Ancestry, Predictive and Pre-Symptomatic Testing and others), Competitive Market Growth, Insights, Share and Forecast to 2030

New York, USA, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Genetic Testing Market Overview

According to a Comprehensive Research Report by Market Research Future (MRFR),  Genetic Testing Market Information by Type, Method, Application And Region - Forecast till 2030, the market size was valued at USD 8.1 billion in 2021 is projected to grow from USD 8.91 Billion in 2022 to USD 17.48 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.10% during the forecast period (2022 - 2030).

Market Scope

The rising incidence of hereditary and chronic illnesses and the development of cutting-edge testing tools are the key market drivers enhancing market growth are the key market drivers enhancing the market growth. Technological advances in genetic testing include the creation of next-generation sequencing and chromosomal microarray analysis, which have transformed the detection of chromosomal structural and numerical abnormalities and, in turn, assisted in the identification of a number of rare genomic and genetic disorders. Additionally, in September 2019, Roche unveiled FoundationOne Liquid, a genetic profile test based on blood. This assay identifies the 70 most frequently changed genes in solid tumors with microsatellite instability.

Additionally, Myriad Genetics, Inc. announced in May 2020 that the FDA had approved BRACAnalysis CDx for use by healthcare professionals as a companion diagnostic test to identify patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer who have a germline BRCA mutation and are candidates for treatment with PARP (poly ADP ribose polymerase) inhibitor Lynparza.

Story continues

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Report Scope:

Report Attribute Details Market Size in 2030 USD 17.48 Billion CAGR 10.10% Base Year 2021 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Historical Data 2020 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Type, Method, Application and End-User Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World (RoW) Key Market Drivers The development of next-generation sequencing and chromosomal microarray analysis Technology advancements have also improved test accuracy and allowed doctors to examine various genetic data sets simultaneously

Competitive Analysis

Major market companies are investing a lot of money in R&D to expand their product offerings, which will spur further growth in the genetic testing industry. With significant industry changes like new product releases, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, and collaboration with other organizations, market participants are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to expand their global presence. In order to grow and survive in an environment where competition is fierce and the market is growing, competitors in the genetic testing sector must provide affordable products.

One of the primary business strategies employed by manufacturers in the global Genetic Testing industry to assist clients and expand the market sector is local manufacturing to reduce operational costs. Recently, the genetic testing sector has offered medicine some of its most significant benefits. Major players in the genetic testing market including Prenetics Group Limited, Illumina, and others are attempting to increase market demand by funding R&D initiatives.

Key Players

PerkinElmer Inc. (US)

Myriad Genetics Inc. (US)

Abbott Laboratories (US)

Illumina Inc. (US)

Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc. (the US)

QIAGEN (Germany)

Eurofins Scientific (US)

Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (US)

Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd (Switzerland)

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (US)

Market Dynamics



Throughout the projected period, the cytogenetic market is anticipated to be driven by the development of important leading players' genetic testing products. Technology improvements have also increased test accuracy and made it possible for medical professionals to simultaneously review many genomic data sets. Many countries are speeding up the adoption of new methods by approving them for the market. For instance, the first test to detect Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), one of the main causes of genetic developmental delay and intellectual disability, was authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration in February 2021.

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (150 Pages) on Genetic Testing: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/genetic-testing-market-2009

As a result of the increased prevalence of chronic diseases, advancements in technology, and the trend towards personalized medicine, it is predicted that the market for genetic testing will expand significantly over the course of the forecast period. As a result, these circumstances have recently increased the CAGR of the global market for genetic testing.

However, effective government initiatives to promote genetic testing are another element boosting the market's revenue growth.

Segmentation

According to Method, the genetic testing market is segmented into molecular genetic tests/DNA tests, chromosomal and biochemical tests, and other tests. In 2021, the molecular genetic tests and DNA tests market category accounted for the majority of market revenue, or about 45%. The segment's dominance is due to the method's widespread use in genetic tests. The technological superiority of this method, such as speedier turnaround times and the current trend of declining next-generation sequencing (NGS) costs, will also accelerate the segmental expansion.

Prescribed genetic testing and direct-to-consumer genetic testing are the two categories into which the genetic testing market data has been divided. Prescribed genetic testing dominated the market in 2021 and is anticipated to increase at the fastest rate over the next five years.

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According to Application, the global genetic testing market has been divided into several subsectors, including presymptomatic and predictive testing, cancer screening, and reproductive health. The sector with the biggest market share in 2021 was cancer screening ancestry; by 2030, it is predicted to expand in value by million USD at a CAGR of 11%. A person's lifetime risk of developing cancer can be determined with the help of genetic testing. By looking for specific changes in a person's genes, chromosomes, or proteins, it does this. These modifications are referred to as mutations.

Pred reproductive health is the industry's fastest growing subsegment.

Regional Analysis

The second-largest market share belongs to Europe's market for genetic testing. This comes about as a result of patients learning more about inherited conditions such cystic fibrosis, cancer, and thalassemia. The growth of the genetic testing industry is also aided by the 100,000 Genomes Project and other genomics activities carried out by research groups in this area. Additionally, the UK Genetic Testing market had the quickest rate of growth in the European region, while the Germany Genetic Testing market had the greatest market share.

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From 2022 to 2030, the Asia-Pacific Genetic Testing Market is anticipated to experience the quickest CAGR growth. An expanding patient base paired with an increase in the usage of cutting-edge genomics technology, an increase in the frequency of many chronic illnesses, and a decline in the price of genomic testing are all contributing factors to the region's burgeoning healthcare system. The India Genetic Testing market was the one in Asia-Pacific with the quickest rate of growth, and China Genetic Testing held the largest market share.

Discover more research Reports on Healthcare Industry by Market Research Future:

Preimplantation Genetic Testing Market Growth, Trends and Size Analysis by Procedure (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Preimplantation Genetic Screening), Type (Chromosomal Abnormalities, X-linked Diseases, Embryo Testing, Aneuploidy Screening, LA Typing and others), Application (Embryo HLA Typing for Stem Cell Therapy, IVF Prognosis, Late-Onset Genetic Disorders, Inherited Genetic Disease and others), Technology (Next-Generation Sequencing, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization, Comparative Genomic Hybridization, Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism), Product and Service (Reagents and Consumables, Instruments, Software and Services) - Global Forecast till 2030

Human Genetics Market : Information by Application (Wellness & E-Commerce, Preventive Medicine, Diagnostic & Treatment), by Test (NIPT, Carrier Testing, Pharmacogenomic Testing, Karyotype Testing, Thrombophilia Testing, Septin 9 Biomarker Testing, NGS, Others), and by Country (US, Canada, UK, Germany, Spain, Japan)Forecast till 2030

Genetic Engineering Market Research Report: Product (Biochemical, Genetic Markers), Devices (PCR, Gene Gun, Gel Assemblies), Techniques (Artificial Selection, Gene Splicing), Application (Agriculture, Medical Industry), End-User- Forecast to 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.

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Genius Group Limited

SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Genius Group Limited (NYSE American: GNS) (Genius Group or the Company), a leading entrepreneur edtech and education group, and its subsidiary University of Antelope Valley (UAV), announces the launch of the California Business School, a school within UAV to house its flagship MBA program. Students in this MBA program will also have special access to a Global Entrepreneur Program, featuring New York Times Bestselling Authors in leadership, marketing, technology and entrepreneurship.



Following Genius Groups acquisition of the California-based UAV, the group enhanced the delivery of UAVs accredited programs digitally and internationally via its proprietary Edtech Platform. The newly established California Business School will serve as UAVs business school and continue to offer UAVs business degrees at the Bachelors and Masters levels.

Genius Group has teamed up with three New York Times Bestselling Authors with global followings across multiple disciplines to offer their entrepreneur coursework and content in an exclusive relationship to students and graduates of UAVs California Business School. These include:

Peter Diamandis: Peter is the founder and executive chairman of the XPRIZE Foundation, the Founder and Curator of Abundance360, and the executive founder of Singularity University, a graduate-level Silicon Valley institution that counsels the world's leaders on exponentially growing technologies. He has a Master's degree from MIT and medical degree from Harvard University. He is a New York Times Bestselling author of three books: Abundance, The Future Is Better Than You Think, BOLD, How to go Big, Create Wealth & Impact the World and The Future is Faster Than You Think.

Salim Ismail: Salim is an Indo-Canadian serial entrepreneur, angel investor, author, speaker, and technology strategist. He was the Founding Executive Director of Singularity University and lead author of international best seller Exponential Organizations. In March 2017 he was named to the board of the XPRIZE Foundation. He is a serial entrepreneur having co-founded a number of tech companies (Confabb PubSub Concepts and Angstro, acquired by Google in 2010) and led Brickhouse, Yahoo!s internal incubator for new products. He is the lead author of the new Exponential Organizations 2.0, and the founder of OpenExO, where he serves as Chairman.

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Roger James Hamilton: Roger is the founder and CEO of Genius Group, and a graduate of Cambridge University. He is a New York Times Bestselling author of The Millionaire Masterplan which features entrepreneur tools including the Entrepreneur Spectrum and Genius Test, which have become the basis for GeniusU, an Edtech platform teaching entrepreneurship and investing to over 4.3 million students globally. Rogers personalized assessments and Entrepreneur Dynamics system forms the basis of Genius Groups entrepreneur curriculum.

In addition to an MBA awarded by UAVs California Business School, students that successfully complete the Global Entrepreneur Program will also obtain an Entrepreneur Certificate awarded by Genius University.

The Entrepreneur Certificate at Genius University is a one-year, post-graduate program where students will have the option to experience both live discussions and skills based training from guest speakers, an international week long opportunity to build their business plans and connection to local cohorts globally to build partnerships and gain localized mentorship. Genius Universitys Entrepreneur Certificate Program stands out with its Learn & Earn model where students of all ages earn their credits over a one-year digital or in-person program.

Students may enroll for the Global Entrepreneur Program, or enroll specifically for GeniusUs Entrepreneur Certificate or UAVs MBA.

UAV, and its California Business School, are accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). In addition to the MBA coursework, the MBA at UAVs California Business School features opportunities for students to attend optional guest lectures from global experts in entrepreneurship, leadership, and wealth accumulation.

The course is suitable for startup entrepreneurs, serial entrepreneurs and corporate leaders with an MBA seeking to build their entrepreneur skills and connections globally from world class thought leaders and university faculty, with exposure to entrepreneurs, companies and investors globally.

Graduate students can attend the MBA program at the UAV California School of Business on location at UAV campus in Lancaster, California, or online. The GeniusU Entrepreneur Certificate is a fully online program.

The relationship officially launches on March 6, 2023 and is already accepting enrolments at https://www.uav.edu/businessm .

Roger Hamilton, CEO of Genius Group, stated We are excited to be partnering with Peter Diamandis and Salim Ismail in our Entrepreneur Program. Peter is well known for working with top leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers through X Prize and his Abundance360 Summit, and Salim works with companies globally with his OpenExO certification and training programs. Both are pioneers in creating models for entrepreneurs, leaders and companies to scale through exponential times.

Partnering with Peter and Salim is part of Genius Groups focus at bringing the very best educators and thought leaders within entrepreneurship to our students, and scaling their learning models to countries throughout our global student and partner community.

About Genius Group

Genius Group is a world leading entrepreneur Edtech and education group, with a mission to disrupt the current education model with a student-centered, life-long learning curriculum that prepares students with the leadership, entrepreneurial and life skills to succeed in todays market. The group has a group user base of 4.3 million users in 200 countries, ranging from ages 0 to 100. For more information, please visit https://www.geniusgroup.net/

Investor Notice

Investing in our securities involves a high degree of risk. Before making an investment decision, you should carefully consider the risks, uncertainties and forward-lookig statements described in our most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, filed with the SEC on May 13, 2022. If any of these risks were to occur, our business, financial condition or results of operations would likely suffer. In that event, the value of our securities could decline, and you could lose part or all of your investment. The risks and uncertainties we describe are not the only ones facing us. Additional risks not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also impair our business operations. In addition, our past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance, and historical trends should not be used to anticipate results in the future. See Forward-Looking Statements below.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements made in this press release include 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. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as may, will, plan, should, expect, anticipate, estimate, continue, or comparable terminology. Such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties, many of which the Company cannot predict with accuracy and some of which the Company might not even anticipate and involve factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or suggested. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and are advised to consider the factors listed above together with the additional factors under the heading Risk Factors in the Companys Annual Reports on Form 20-F, as may be supplemented or amended by the Companys Reports of a Foreign Private Issuer on Form 6-K. The Company assumes no obligation to update or supplement forward-looking statements that become untrue because of subsequent events, new information or otherwise.

Contacts

Investors:

Flora Hewitt, Vice President of Investor Relations and Mergers and Acquisitions

Email: investor@geniusgroup.net

Media Contacts: Adia PR

Email: gns@adiapr.co.uk

US Investors:

Dave Gentry

RedChip Companies Inc

1-800-RED-CHIP

GNS@redchip.com




GINSMS Inc.

CALGARY, Alberta, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GINSMS Inc. (TSXV: GOK) (the Corporation or GINSMS) announces the resignation of Ms. Vivian Lau as director of the Corporation with immediate effect.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and management team, I would like to thank Vivian for her many contributions during her tenure as director of GINSMS, said the Corporations Chief Executive Officer, Joel Chin. We wish her well in her future endeavors.

About GINSMS

GINSMS is a mobile technology and services company focusing on 2 areas namely its A2P Messaging Service and its Software Products and Services. GINSMS operates a cloud-based A2P messaging service that allows the termination of SMS to mobile subscribers of more than 200 mobile operators globally. GINSMS also develops and distribute innovative software products and services for mobile operators and enterprises and have successfully deployed more than 100 solutions worldwide. GINSMS has offices in China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Indonesia. Its head office is located at 700-9th Avenue S.W., Suite 300, Calgary, Alberta T2P 3V4.

For further information, please contact:

GINSMS Inc.

Joel Chin, CEO

Tel: +65-6441-1029

Email: investor.relations@ginsms.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE




DelveInsight Business Research LLP

The blood collection devices market is expected to prosper as a result of factors such as an increase in diagnostic tests due to the rising prevalence of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, malaria, and others, increased health awareness, an increase in blood transfusion procedures, and a growing focus on improving the safety and usability of blood collection devices for end users (20222027).

New York, USA, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Global Blood Collection Devices Market to Register Incremental Growth at a CAGR of ~7% by 2027 | DelveInsight

The blood collection devices market is expected to prosper as a result of factors such as an increase in diagnostic tests due to the rising prevalence of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, malaria, and others, increased health awareness, an increase in blood transfusion procedures, and a growing focus on improving the safety and usability of blood collection devices for end users (20222027).

DelveInsights Blood Collection Devices Market Insights report provides the current and forecast market analysis, individual leading blood collection devices companies market shares, challenges, blood collection devices market drivers, barriers, and trends, and key blood collection devices companies in the market.

Key Takeaways from the Blood Collection Devices Market Report

As per DelveInsight estimates, North America is anticipated to dominate the global blood collection devices market during the forecast period.

Notable blood collection devices companies such as BD, Terumo Corporation, Haemonetics Corporation, Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA, Nipro Europe Group Companies, FL MEDICAL s.r.l., Greiner Bio-One International GmbH, Cardinal Health, SARSTEDT AG & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., ICU Medical, Grifols, S.A, CML Biotech, INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC SUPPLIES LTD, Demophorius Healthcare LTD, AB MEDICAL Co., Ltd., Trajan Scientific and Medical, Macopharma, VOGT MEDICAL, Ljungberg & Kogel AB, and several others are currently operating in the blood collection devices market.

In October 2022, Sol-Millennium Inc. , a medical device company and innovator in medication delivery and specimen collection, announced that it had received a new 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its proprietary Sol-Guard Safety Pull Button Blood Collection Set, the companys rapidly expanding blood collection portfolio.

In October 2022, BD (Becton, Dickinson, and Company) , a leading global medical technology company, and Magnolia Medical Technologies, Inc. announced a co-exclusive commercial agreement today to assist U.S. hospitals in reducing blood culture contamination, which will help improve testing accuracy and, ultimately, clinical outcomes.

In September 2022, Tasso announced that the FDA had cleared its Tasso+ lancet blood collection system as a Class II medical device.

In March 2022, Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies , a medical device company, received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for its new plasma collection system named Rika Plasma Donation System (Rika), which is a next-generation automated technology with safety features to minimize operator errors and collects plasma in 35 minutes or less.

In February 2022, Abacus dx announced the launch of RNA Complete BCT, which is the newest addition to Strecks trusted blood collection tube portfolio. The tube allows for convenient sample collection, transport, and storage.

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To read more about the latest highlights related to the blood collection devices market, get a snapshot of the key highlights entailed in the Global Blood Collection Devices Market Report

Blood Collection Devices Overview

Blood collection is the process of drawing blood samples from patients before they are tested in a laboratory. It employs what is commonly known as the order of draw principle. It counts or examines blood cells, chemicals, proteins, and other substances. It is one of the most common types of lab tests and is frequently performed as part of a routine checkup. The various tests and biochemical assays necessitate different types of sample collection tubes. The recommended procedure is to collect multiple venous and arterial blood samples in a single patient, using a color sequence of withdrawal and its indications based on the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Blood collection devices are medical devices used in the safe and efficient collection, transportation, and storage of blood samples for later diagnostic and treatment purposes.





Blood Collection Devices Market Insights

North America is expected to lead the global blood collection devices market in terms of revenue generation. This can be attributed, among other things, to the presence of a large patient pool associated with cancer and other diseases, an increase in blood transfusion procedures, a highly potent market in terms of product development and launches, and the local presence of key blood collection devices market players.

One of the major factors driving the growth of the North American blood collection devices market is the widespread use of blood collection devices by end users, particularly in the United States, for sample collection in the diagnosis of various diseases.

To know more about why North America is leading the market growth in the blood collection devices market, get a snapshot of the Blood Collection Devices Market Outlook

Blood Collection Devices Market Dynamics

Among the significant drivers of the blood collection devices market, the rising prevalence of infectious diseases, which necessitates a wide range of blood sample collection and testing, appears to be the most important factor for accelerating the blood collection devices market. Furthermore, rising health awareness will drive up demand for routine health checkups, boosting blood collection devices market growth. Another important factor driving the growth of the blood collection devices market is the steady increase in blood donations.

However, the risk of blood sample contamination during transport and storage and a scarcity of skilled phlebotomists may act as restraints on the growth of the blood collection devices market.

Additionally, the blood collection devices market experienced a brief period of market restraint due to the implementation of lockdown as necessary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection, which resulted in the suspension of routine diagnostic checkups. Furthermore, during the initial phases of the lockdown, the manufacturing and supply of blood collection devices were hampered, resulting in a further decline in the blood collection devices market. However, as the number of COVID-19 cases increased, so did the demand for blood testing and plasma donation, resulting in a slight improvement in the blood collection devices market.

Moreover, with the resumption of activities such as routine health checkups, tests for other diseases, and others across industries, including the healthcare sector, the blood collection devices market is expected to grow during the forecast period of 20222027.

Get a sneak peek at the blood collection devices market dynamics @ Blood Collection Devices Market Dynamics Analysis

Report Metrics Details Coverage Global Study Period 20192027 Base Year 2021 Blood Collection Devices Market CAGR ~7% Projected Blood Collection Devices Market Size by 2027 USD 9.25 Billion Key Blood Collection Devices Companies BD, Terumo Corporation, Haemonetics Corporation, Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA, Nipro Europe Group Companies, FL MEDICAL s.r.l., Greiner Bio-One International GmbH, Cardinal Health, SARSTEDT AG & Co. KG, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., ICU Medical, Grifols, S.A, CML Biotech, INTERNATIONAL SCIENTIFIC SUPPLIES LTD, Demophorius Healthcare LTD, AB MEDICAL Co., Ltd., Trajan Scientific and Medical, Macopharma, VOGT MEDICAL, Ljungberg & Kogel AB, among others

Blood Collection Devices Market Assessment

Blood Collection Devices Market Segmentation Market Segmentation By Product Type: Blood Collection Tubes (Edta, Heparin, and Others) Market Segmentation By Method: Manual and Automatic Market Segmentation By End User: Hosptials And Clinics, Diagnostic Labs, Blood Banks, and Others Market Segmentation By Geography : North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World

Porters Five Forces Analysis, Product Profiles, Case Studies, KOLs Views, Analysts View

Which MedTech key players in the blood collection devices market are set to emerge as the trendsetter explore @ Blood Collection Devices Companies

Table of Contents

1 Report Introduction 2 Executive summary 3 Regulatory and Patent Analysis 4 Key Factors Analysis 5 Porters Five Forces Analysis 6 COVID-19 Impact Analysis on Blood Collection Devices Market 7 Blood Collection Devices Market Layout 8 Global Company Share Analysis  Key 3-5 Companies 9 Blood Collection Devices Market Company and Product Profiles 10 Project Approach 11 About DelveInsight

Interested in knowing the blood collection devices market by 2027? Click to get a snapshot of the Blood Collection Devices Market Trends

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Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global IoT Telecom Services Market Size, Share & Industry Trends Analysis Report By Network Management Solution, By Type, By Connectivity, By Application, By Regional Outlook and Forecast, 2022-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The Global IoT Telecom Services Market size is expected to reach $97.9 billion by 2028, rising at a market growth of 31.8% CAGR during the forecast period.



Consequently, telecommunications companies must develop new IoT solutions for their clients. The market for IoT telecom services has expanded significantly due to the widespread adoption of IoT devices and emerging technological developments. IoT platforms are utilized for an assortment of business objectives and use cases. Therefore, it is essential to implement novel, forward-thinking, and individualized strategies.



The deployment of IoT-based initiatives is now essential for telecom companies that want to start embracing the digital age, gain a significant competitive advantage, and take advantage of the opportunities that modern technology offers. With the use of Internet of things technology, the method of real-time data collection can be altered to improve performance, use fewer resources, and eliminate human factor errors. Additionally, increased speed and bandwidth are outcomes of the collaboration between telecom as well as IoT companies.



IoT protocols and 5G interconnection can broadcast information from thousands of devices to a large number of consumers without slowing communication speed or limiting capacity. The market for IoT telecom services is driven by these factors, which are anticipated to increase in the future. The growth of the IoT telecom services market is primarily driven by the increasing acceptance of technological advancement and innovation, as well as IoT-powered smart security cameras.



Market Growth Factors

Technological development and innovation



As time has passed, there has been a rise in demand for improved connectivity as a result of technological development as well as expanding innovation. It is anticipated that this will accelerate IoT acceptance in the telecom sector and stimulate market growth. Along with the increase in telecommunications-related data volume, the demand for data-management-improving technology has also increased.

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Additionally, manufacturers emphasize the importance of IoT and wireless connectivity. In addition, the expansion of next-generation wireless networks due to the implementation of smart technologies and distributed applications are anticipated to provide growth opportunities for the telecom IoT market over the forecast period.



The leading players in the market are competing with diverse innovative offerings to remain competitive in the market. The below illustration shows the percentage of revenue shared by some of the leading companies in the market. The leading players of the market are adopting various strategies in order to cater demand coming from the different industries. The key developmental strategies in the market are Partnerships & Collaborations.



The emergence of IOT-powered security smart CAMS



Telecom companies can also utilize beacons and RFID badges to secure the perimeter and bar unauthorized access. Telecom companies can use this method to create a geofence for their IoT devices. A networked barrier can be constructed with the aid of a geofence installation. Building an IoT-enabled barrier that only allows authorized users to pass through has been made simpler with the help of a geofence. IoT deployment in telecom companies can therefore make it easier to develop security standards that are more effective.



Connectivity Outlook



Based on connectivity, the IoT telecom services market is segmented into cellular technology, LPWAN, NB-IoT, and RF-based. In 2021, the LPWAN segment garnered a substantial revenue share in the IoT telecom service market. This is due to the widespread acceptance of the IoT telecom service market to strengthen LPWA Network (LPWAN) technologies, which offer a low-cost, low-power wireless option with global reach and robust security. In the telecom industry, machine-to-machine connections are crucial; for this, WiFi and GSM technologies are typically employed.



Network Management Solution Outlook



On the basis of network management solution, the IoT telecom services market is fragmented into network performance monitoring & optimization, network traffic management, and network security management. In 2021, the network security management segment acquired a significant revenue share in the IoT telecom services market. For effective network management, they utilize firewalls as well as other IoT-enabled security solutions to protect network data and resources. Network security management allows an administrator to manage a network with both physical & virtual firewalls from a central location.



Type Outlook



By type, the IoT telecom services market is divided into business consulting services, installation & integration services, devices & application management solution, IoT billing & subscription management, and M2M billing management. The IoT billing & subscription management segment covered a considerable revenue share in the IoT telecom services market in 2021. Today's market is characterized by hybrid products, services, and business models. Many businesses that have not utilized recurring revenue models or subscription services in the past are now entering this market niche. Establish and manage subscription offers as well as pricing tiers, user billing, and management of cellular plans, as well as notifications and taxes.



Application Outlook



On the basis of application, the IoT telecom services market is bifurcated into smart building & home automation, capillary network management, industrial manufacturing & automation, vehicle telematics, energy & utilities, and smart healthcare. In 2021, the vehicle telematics segment recorded a remarkable revenue share in the IoT telecom services market. Connected vehicles, autonomous driving, and the entire automotive infrastructure are key aspects of the Internet of Things as well as 5G mobile technologies. For cars to be fully autonomous, their surroundings must be equipped with sensors that send signals that can be interpreted in real-time to ensure safe and dependable driving.



Regional Outlook



Region wise, the IoT telecom services market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and LAMEA. In 2021, the North America region led the IoT telecom services market by generating the largest revenue share. This is a result of a rise in data security awareness among banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions, as well as an increase in the number of cyberattacks, which aids the expansion of the IoT telecom services market. In addition, the rising adoption of smart connected devices and technologies and the promotion of OTT applications by telcos are driving the expansion of IoT telecom services in this region.



IoT Telecom Services Market Competition Analysis



The major strategies followed by the market participants are Partnerships. Based on the Analysis presented in the Cardinal matrix; AT&T, Inc., China Mobile Limited and Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd are the forerunners in the IoT Telecom Services Market. Companies such as MediaTek, Inc., Vodafone Group Plc and Telstra Corporation Limited are some of the key innovators in IoT Telecom Services Market.



The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include Orange S.A., Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. (Huawei Investment & Holding Co., Ltd.), AT&T, Inc., Vodafone Group Plc, MediaTek, Inc., Sequans Communications S.A., China Mobile Limited, Telstra Corporation Limited, Sierra Wireless, Inc. (Semtech Corporation), and Ericsson AB.



Strategies deployed in IoT Telecom Services Market

Partnerships, Collaborations and Agreements:

Jun-2022: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd signed an agreement with Nordic Semiconductor, a Norwegian fabless technology company specializing in designing ultra-low-power wireless communication semiconductors. Under this agreement, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd would be able to aid a large-scale deployment of low-power cellular IoT technology by different industries and further help the digital transformation of societies worldwide

Mar-2022: Sierra Wireless, Inc., extended its partnership with T-Mobile. Under this partnership, Sierra Wireless, Inc., would be able to deliver access to the operator's low-power wide area (LPWA), 4G LTE, and 5G networks

Product Launches and Product Expansions:

Jan-2023: MediaTek, Inc., unveiled the Genio 700. This new product is the latest addition to the chipset in the Genio platform for IoT devices. Moreover, the MediaTek Genio 700 is an N6 (6nm) IoT chipset that supports two ARM A78 cores running at 2.2GHz and six ARM A55 cores at 2.0GHz while providing 4.0 TOPs AI accelerator

Key Market Players

Orange S.A

Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. (Huawei Investment & Holding Co., Ltd.)

AT&T, Inc

Vodafone Group Plc

MediaTek, Inc

Sequans Communications S.A

China Mobile Limited

Telstra Corporation Limited

Sierra Wireless, Inc. (Semtech Corporation)

Ericsson

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/x5gh08-iot?w=12

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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




Hong Kong: Flight restriction removal welcomed

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today welcomed the lifting of restrictions imposed by Japanese and Korean authorities on passenger flights from Hong Kong from March 1.

Since the end of December last year, the Japanese authority began restricting the extent of the increase in the frequency of passenger flights departing from Hong Kong.

While the Korean authority imposed a restriction on passenger flights from Hong Kong from January 10 to the end of this month. The restriction will be removed from March 1 as scheduled.

Noting that it has been liaising with the Japanese and Korean authorities on rescinding all unreasonable restrictions targeting Hong Kong flights, the Hong Kong SAR Government believes that the lifting of the restrictions by the two countries can bring more convenience to travellers and help speed up the recovery of Hong Kongs aviation industry.

This story has been published on: 2023-02-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Vantage Market Research, The North Star for the Working World

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a report by Vantage Market Research, the global Smart Packaging Market is expected to grow from $13.88 Billion in 2021 to $33.00 Billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 12% during the forecast period. The food and beverage industry is expected to be the largest segment of the smart packaging market, driven by the need for food safety and quality assurance. Other key application areas of smart packaging include healthcare, personal care, and consumer electronics.



Smart Packaging Market Overview

The smart packaging market refers to the use of advanced technologies in packaging materials and containers to enhance the functionality, sustainability, and security of products. Smart packaging incorporates features such as RFID tags, QR codes, sensors, and other electronics to enable real-time tracking, monitoring, and analysis of products during storage and shipment.

The smart packaging market is driven by the growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, the increasing use of smart labels for product tracking and authentication, and the need for innovative packaging designs to improve consumer engagement and brand loyalty. The rise of e-commerce and online retail has also contributed to the growth of the smart packaging market, as companies seek to ensure the safe and timely delivery of their products to customers.

Get Access to the In-depth Free Sample Report @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/smart-packaging-market-1300/request-sample

Smart Packaging Market Dynamics

Technological advancements: The development of new and advanced technologies such as RFID, sensors, and smart labels is driving the growth of the smart packaging market. Innovations in these technologies are allowing for better tracking, monitoring, and analysis of products during storage and shipment, leading to greater efficiency, accuracy, and security in the supply chain.

Growing demand for sustainable packaging: The increasing focus on sustainability and environmental protection is driving the demand for eco-friendly and sustainable packaging solutions. Smart packaging technologies are being developed that reduce waste, minimize carbon emissions, and improve recyclability, contributing to the overall trend towards sustainable packaging.

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Rising e-commerce industry: The growth of e-commerce is driving the demand for smart packaging solutions that ensure the safe and timely delivery of products to consumers. Smart packaging technologies such as smart labels and sensors are being used to track and monitor products during shipping and to prevent damage or theft.

Stringent regulations: Government regulations regarding food safety and product authentication are driving the adoption of smart packaging solutions, particularly in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Regulations such as the EU's Food Contact Materials Regulation and the US Food Safety Modernization Act require food packaging to meet strict safety and quality standards, which is fueling the adoption of smart packaging solutions.

High costs: The high cost of implementing smart packaging solutions is a major barrier to market growth. The cost of integrating sensors and other electronics into packaging materials can be prohibitively expensive for small and medium-sized enterprises, which limits their adoption of smart packaging solutions. However, as the technology continues to develop and becomes more affordable, the adoption of smart packaging is expected to increase.

Top Players in the Smart Packaging Market:

Bureau Veritas SA (France)

SGS S.A. (Switzerland)

Eurofins Scientific SE (Luxembourg)

Intertek Group Plc. (U.K.)

Merieux NutriSciences Corporation (U.S.)

TUV SUD AG (Germany)

ALS Limited (Australia)

National Technical Systems Inc. (U.S.)

Microbac Laboratories Inc. (U.S.)

EMSL Analytical Inc. (U.S.)

and Campden BRI (U.K.)



For Additional Information on Smart Packaging Market Players and Detail List, Download a Report PDF Brochure

Smart Packaging Market Future Trends

Increased use of Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies: IoT and AI technologies are expected to become increasingly integrated into smart packaging solutions, enabling better tracking, monitoring, and analysis of products throughout the supply chain.

Greater focus on sustainability: Sustainability will continue to be a key driver of innovation in the smart packaging market, with a focus on developing eco-friendly materials and reducing waste. Advances in biodegradable and compostable packaging materials are expected to gain momentum in the coming years.

Greater use of Blockchain technology: Blockchain technology is expected to play a larger role in the smart packaging market, enabling greater traceability and transparency in the supply chain. Blockchain can be used to ensure the authenticity and safety of products, which is particularly important in industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.

Personalization of packaging: The trend towards personalization is expected to extend to the packaging industry, with companies offering customized packaging solutions for individual products and consumers. This trend is being driven by the desire to create a more engaging and memorable experience for consumers.

Integration with augmented reality (AR): The integration of smart packaging with AR technology is expected to provide an immersive and interactive experience for consumers, allowing them to interact with products in new and exciting ways. This trend is expected to gain momentum in the retail and consumer goods industries.

Limited Time Offer | Buy this Premium Research Report with Exclusive Discount and Immediate Delivery@ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/buy-now/smart-packaging-market-1300/0

Recent Developments

May 2022 - Sealed Air launched its digital packaging brand, prismiq, which has a portfolio of design services, digital printing, and smart packaging solutions. It eliminates waste and excess packaging while enhancing products and customer engagement. Sealed Airs end-to-end cloud-based platform generates package-specific digital IDs that collect and manage data along the value chain.

February 2022 - Sealed Air Corporation acquired Foxpak Flexibles Ltd. (Foxpak) to expand digital smart packaging solutions for leading global brands. Foxpak is a developer of digital printing on flexible packaging. This private Ireland-based packaging solutions company partners with top brands to deliver highly-decorated packaging solutions for various served markets  including pet food, food retail, seafood, and snacks.

Smart Packaging Market Segmentation

By Technology

Physical Tests

Spectroscopy & Photometric-Based

Chromatography-Based



By End-user Vertical

Food, Beverage

Healthcare

Personal Care

Other End-user Verticals

By Type

Physical

Chemical

Microbiological



By Material

Glass

Plastic

Paper

Metals

Browse Market Data Tables and Figures spread through 166 Pages and in-depth TOC on Smart Packaging Market Forecast Report (2022-2028).

Regional Analysis:

North America: North America is one of the largest markets for smart packaging, with the United States being the largest contributor to the region's growth. The market is driven by the growth of the e-commerce industry, increased demand for sustainable packaging, and the adoption of stringent regulations regarding food safety and product authentication.

Europe: Europe is another significant market for smart packaging, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions. The region is also home to several leading manufacturers of smart packaging solutions, which contributes to its growth.

Asia Pacific: The Asia Pacific region is expected to see significant growth in the smart packaging market, driven by the rapid growth of e-commerce and rising consumer awareness about product safety and authenticity. Countries such as China and India are expected to be key markets for smart packaging in the region.

Middle East and Africa: The Middle East and Africa region is expected to see moderate growth in the smart packaging market, driven by the growth of the food and beverage industry and the increasing adoption of smart packaging solutions in the pharmaceutical industry.

Latin America: Latin America is another emerging market for smart packaging, with increasing demand for sustainable packaging solutions and growing awareness about the benefits of smart packaging technologies. Countries such as Brazil and Mexico are expected to be key markets for smart packaging in the region.



Read Full Report @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/smart-packaging-market-1300

Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the size of the smart packaging market, and how fast is it growing?

What are the key drivers, restraints, and trends influencing the growth of the smart packaging market?

What are the different types of smart packaging technologies and materials available in the market, and what are their applications?

What are the key end-use industries for smart packaging, and what is their market share?

What are the different distribution channels for smart packaging, and which ones are most preferred by customers?

Who are the leading players in the smart packaging market, and what is their market share?

What are the challenges faced by the smart packaging industry, and how can they be overcome?

What are the regional dynamics of the smart packaging market, and which regions offer the most growth opportunities?

What are the future trends in the smart packaging market, and how can companies capitalize on them?

What is the competitive landscape of the smart packaging market, and how can companies differentiate themselves from their competitors?

Scope of the Report:

Report Attributes Details Market Size in 2021 USD 13.88 Billion Revenue Forecast by 2028 USD 33.00 Billion CAGR 12% from 2022 to 2028 Base Year 2021 Forecast Year 2022 to 2028 Key Players Bureau Veritas SA, SGS S.A., Eurofins Scientific SE, Intertek Group Plc., Merieux NutriSciences Corporation, TUV SUD AG, ALS Limited, National Technical Systems Inc., Microbac Laboratories Inc., EMSL Analytical Inc., Campden BRI Customization Options Customized purchase options are available to meet any research needs. Explore customized purchase options

Browse More Reports from Vantage Library:

About Vantage Market Research:

We, at Vantage Market Research, provide quantified B2B high quality research on more than 20,000 emerging markets, in turn, helping our clients map out constellation of opportunities for their businesses. We, as a competitive intelligence market research and consulting firm provide end to end solutions to our client enterprises to meet their crucial business objectives. Our clientele base spans across 70% of Global Fortune 500 companies.

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Global Market Estimates

Ascent Solar, Avancis, Cicor Management, First Solar, Hanergy Thin Film, Kaneka Corporation, Moser Baer, Sandford Advanced Materials, Solar Frontier, and Trony Solar, among others, are some of the key players in the Thin Film Materials market.

Brooklyn, New York, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a recently revamped/updated market research report published by Global Market Estimates, the Global Thin Film Materials Market is projected to grow from USD 7.1 billion in 2023 to USD 14.5 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2023 to 2028.



The major factor driving the growth of the market is its wide applications in solar photovoltaic cells for solar power generation. Other factors driving the growth of the Thin Film Material Market include its application in electronic components such as printed circuit boards, sensors, capacitors, etc.

Browse 147 Market Data Tables and 115 Figures spread through 163 Pages and in-depth TOC on Global Thin Film Materials Market - Forecast to 2028

Key Market Insights

As per the application outlook, the photovoltaic cell segment is expected to be the largest segment in the global market from 2023 to 2028

As per the type outlook, the CIGS segment holds the largest share of the market

The Asia Pacific region is analyzed to be the fastest-growing region in the market

North America region will have the largest share in the market during the forecast period [2023-2028].

Ascent Solar, Avancis, Cicor Management, First Solar, Hanergy Thin Film, Kaneka Corporation, Moser Baer, Sandford Advanced Materials, Solar Frontier, and Trony Solar, among others, are some of the key players in the thin film materials market.





Request for a Sample Copy of the Report https://www.globalmarketestimates.com/market-report/thin-film-materials-market-3864

Deposition Process Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2023-2028)

Chemical

Physical

Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2023-2028)

Photovoltaic Cell

MEMS

Semiconductor & Electrical

Optimal Coating

Story continues

Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2023-2028)

Copper Indium Gallium Selenide- CIGS

Amorphous Silica

Cadmium Telluride





Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Billion, 2023-2028)

North America

The U.S.

Canada

Mexico





Europe

Germany

UK

France

Spain

Italy

Netherlands

Rest of Europe





Asia Pacific

China

India

Japan

South Korea

Thailand

Indonesia

Malaysia

Singapore

Vietnam

Rest of APAC

Central & South America

Brazil

Argentina

Chile

Rest of CSA

Middle East & Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Israel

South Africa

Rest of MEA





Contact: Yash Jain

Director - Global Accounts & Strategic Advisory

Email address: yash.jain@globalmarketestimates.com

Phone Number: +1 6026667238

Website: www.globalmarketestimates.com





CONTACT: Contact: Yash Jain Director - Global Accounts & Strategic Advisory Email address: yash.jain@globalmarketestimates.com Phone Number: +1 6026667238 Website: www.globalmarketestimates.com




Company Logo

Global Viscosupplementation Market

Global Viscosupplementation Market

Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Viscosupplementation Market, By Product Type, By End User, Estimation & Forecast, 2017-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global viscosupplementation market held a market value of USD 4,041 million in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 8,958.9 million by the year 2030. The market is projected to list a CAGR of 9.2% during the forecast period.



Some of the reasons anticipated to propel the market include the rising need for non-surgical treatments for osteoarthritis, the prevalence of illnesses brought on by a sedentary lifestyle, and improvements in the creation of hyaluronic acid-based therapies.

The market-available viscosupplements have been clinically demonstrated to be the most efficient treatment for knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common chronic cause of disability and is a painful degenerative joint condition. The condition typically begins after the age of 30, and after 10 years of diagnosis, it may grow to become a disability.



Growth Influencers:



Surging geriatric populations and prevalence of Osteoarthritis will drive the growth of the market

The rising geriatric population is driving the market growth. According to projections made by the WHO, the number of people 65 and older in the world is expected to climb from 7% in 2000 to 16% in 2050, which will subsequently cause an increase in the prevalence of obesity and osteoarthritis.

Thus, it is anticipated that over the projection period, the demand for the product would develop significantly due to the global expansion in the target population and the growing preference for alternate treatment alternatives for corticosteroids for the management of joint pain.



Combination Therapy of Gel Injection and Knee Bracing Benefit Moderate-grade Knee Arthritis Patients

Hyaluronic acid is the active component in knee arthritis gel injections. Our bodies naturally manufacture hyaluronic acid. It is an essential part of the synovial fluid that lubricates many of our joints.

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Over time, the quality of hyaluronic acid in knees with osteoarthritis declines. Synovial fluid's consistency is affected by low-quality hyaluronic acid, which lessens the fluid's capacity for lubrication and shock absorption. Greater lubrication is the main advantage of hyaluronic acid injections into joints.

There are, however, a number of additional ways in which it might enhance joint performance. An antioxidant, hyaluronic acid, has the ability to prevent the buildup of dangerous compounds in the knee joint. The capacity of the knee joint to repair cartilage may be enhanced by hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid may lessen joint inflammation, easing arthritis-related stiffness and pain.



Healthcare Infrastructure growth Installed base and rise in demand for the treatment procedures.



In the U.K. and France, osteoporosis affects more than 2.5 million women annually. Following a decision by the Haute Autorite de Sante (HAS), the Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie will pay 70% of the cost of the scan (CPAM).

Additionally, the Caisse Primaire d'Assurance Maladie has been advised to reimburse BONVIVA, a medication used to strengthen bones and given in the U.K., at a rate of 65%, according to Haute Autorite de Sante (HAS), the health authority (CPAM). The market is being driven by increasing consumer preference for quick turnaround times even if they are expensive and rising rates of target diseases like osteoarthritis.



Segments Overview:

The three injection segment held the highest market share of more than 40% in 2020.

The hospitals segment held the largest market share of 79.8% during forecast period. On the contrary, the ASC segment is estimated tog row steadily. ACL surgery, hip, knee, and shoulder replacements, among other procedures, can be completed in an ASC on the same day. These operations are simpler and almost never necessitate hospitalisation.

Additionally, the musculoskeletal system is the focus of orthopaedic clinics. This covers both surgical and nonsurgical issues with the spine, joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, and nerves. One of the main reasons anticipated to support the growth of this segment is the rising prevalence of osteoarthritis among the geriatric population.



Regional Overview



The global viscosupplementation market is expected to grow expansively during the forecast period due to the rising strategic expansions by the companies functioning in the industry. The market based on region, is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South America.

The Asia Pacific market for viscosupplementation held the largest market share of more than 50% in 2020, with a revenue of USD 1,440.9 million. The regional market is also projected to hold the fastest CAGR of more than 4.8% during the anticipated period.



Competitive Landscape



The prominent players operating in the global viscosupplementation market include Sanofi, Anika Therapeutics, Inc., Seikagaku Corporation, Zimmer Biomet, SMITH & NEPHEW PLC, LG Chem, Lifecore, Ferring B.V., Fidia Farmaceutici S.p.A.,and others. The major nine players in the market hold approximately 50% of the total market share.

These market players are investing in joint ventures, product launches, mergers, expansions. For instance, Hyalofast, a hyaluronic acid-based scaffold for cartilage repair, was introduced by Anika Therapeutics, Inc. in June 2019 at the International Cartilage Regeneration and Joint Preservation Society (ICRS).

Key Metrics

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 104 Forecast Period 2021 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2021 $4041 Million Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $8958.9 Million Compound Annual Growth Rate 9.2% Regions Covered Global

Company Profiles

Sanofi

Anika Therapeutics, Inc.

Seikagaku Corporation

Zimmer Biomet

SMITH & NEPHEW PLC

LG Chem

Lifecore

Ferring B.V.

Fidia Farmaceutici S.p.A

Market Dynamics

Drivers

Surging geriatric populations and prevalence of Osteoarthritis will drive the growth of the market

Combination Therapy of Gel Injection and Knee Bracing Benefit Moderate-grade Knee Arthritis Patients

Healthcare Infrastructure growth Installed base and rise in demand for the treatment procedures

Restraints

High Cost and Adverse Effect Hamper the Market Growth

Clinical Trials

Porter's 5 Force Model

SWOT Analysis

Major Deals & Strategic Alliances Analysis

Product Pricing Analysis

Distribution Channel Analysis

COVID-19 Impact

COVID-19 Status Overview

Influence of COVID-19 Outbreak on viscosupplement Industry

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/u8cd5i

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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




Goliath Resources Limited

TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Goliath Resources Limited (TSX-V: GOT) (OTCQB: GOTRF) (FSE: B4IF) (the Company or Goliath) is pleased to announce it has been selected by the PDAC 2023 technical committee to display its core. PDACs Core Shack provides a unique venue at the worlds premier mining convention to display core from new or ongoing projects that are generating exciting drill results. The latest discoveries from around the world are featured along with maps, charts and technical information.

Goliath is focused on further expanding its new high-grade gold-silver Surebet discovery at its 100% controlled Golddigger Property located in the Golden Triangle, British Columbia. With only 6 months in total time of boots on the ground inclusive of 31,653 meters of drilling in 2021-2022, the Company has already demonstrated the Surebet Zones main horizon is an extensive mineralized system. It has exceptional continuity and gold recovery using gravity and flotation. It's averaging 6.31 g/t AuEq (4.45 g/t Au and 110.7 g/t Ag) over 6.88 meters* over an area of 1.6 square kilometers that remains open. To put this significant mineralized zone into size and scale, during PDAC 2023, look at the CN Tower in Toronto and triple that for Surebet Zones length and width.

To learn more about Goliaths exciting new Surebet discovery, we would like to cordially invite you to visit us at the PDAC Core Shack, Booth # 3103 in the Investors Exchange, Level 800, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building on Sunday, March 5th  Monday March 6th; the Company will be exhibiting both days from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.

About Goliath Resources Limited

Goliath Resources Limited is an explorer of precious metals in the prolific Golden Triangle of northwestern British Columbia and Abitibi Greenstone Belt of Quebec. All its projects are in world class geological settings and geopolitical safe jurisdictions amenable to mining in Canada. The new high-grade gold-silver Surebet discovery at its 100% controlled Golddigger Property located in the Golden Triangle, British Columbia is its flagship project.

Story continues

About PDAC 2023

PDAC 2023: The Worlds Premier Mineral Exploration & Mining Convention is the leading event for people, companies and organizations connected to mineral exploration. This annual convention in Toronto, Canada is known for attracting up to 30,000 attendees from over 130+ countries for its educational programming, networking events, outstanding business opportunities.

Since it began in 1932, the PDAC Convention has grown in size, stature and influence. Today, it is the event of choice for the worlds mineral industry hosting more than 1,100 exhibitors and 2,500 investors. Visit PDACs website for registration/ticketing information.

Qualified Person

Rein Turna P. Geo is the qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, for Goliath Resource Limited projects, and supervised the preparation of, and has reviewed and approved, the technical information in this release.

For more information please contact:

Goliath Resources Limited

Mr. Roger Rosmus

Founder and CEO

Tel: +1-416-488-2887

roger@goliathresources.com

www.goliathresourcesltd.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange), nor the OTCQB Venture Market accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

*Widths are reported in drill core lengths and the true widths are approximately 80-90% and AuEq metal values are calculated using: Au 1644.08 USD/oz, Ag 19.23 USD/oz, Cu 3.47 USD/lbs, Pb 1870.50 USD/ton and Zn 2882.50 USD/ton on October 28, 2022 in Table 1. There is potential for economic recovery of gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc from these occurrences based on other mining and exploration projects in the same Golden Triangle Mining Camp where Goliaths project is located such as the Homestake Ridge Gold Project (Auryn Resources Technical Report, Updated Mineral Resource Estimate and Preliminary Economic Assessment on the Homestake Ridge Gold Project, prepared by Minefill Services Inc. (Bothell, Washington), dated May 29, 2020. Here, AuEq values were calculated using 3-year running averages for metal price, and included provisions for metallurgical recoveries, treatment charges, refining costs, and transportation. Recoveries for Gold were 85.5%, Silver at 74.6%, Copper at 74.6% and Lead at 45.3%. It will be assumed that Zinc can be recovered with the Copper at the same recovery rate of 74.6%. The quoted reference of metallurgical recoveries is not from Goliaths Golddigger Project, Surebet Zone mineralization, and there is no guarantee that such recoveries will ever be achieved, unless detailed metallurgical work such as in a Feasibility Study can be eventually completed on the Golddigger Project.

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Goliaths current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, the ability of Company to complete the financings and its ability to build value for its shareholders as it develops its mining properties. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Goliath. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that the proposed transactions will occur, or that if the proposed transactions do occur, will be completed on the terms described above.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and Goliath is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

This announcement does not constitute an offer, invitation, or recommendation to subscribe for or purchase any securities and neither this announcement nor anything contained in it shall form the basis of any contract or commitment. In particular, this announcement does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer would be illegal.

The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be 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 or for the account or benefit of a U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN.




Innovative context-aware fraud, waste, abuse and error detection powered by leading-edge AI to prevent low-value care in real-time and drive higher quality, safety and affordability for health plan members

SAN JOSE, Calif., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Health at Scale, a leading provider of machine intelligence for value-based care delivery and management, today announced a partnership with ATRIO Health Plans, Inc., a top provider of Medicare Advantage plans serving approximately 30,000 members in Oregon and Nevada. The partnership will leverage Health at Scale's state-of-the-art AI and machine learning technologies to prevent low-value care corresponding to fraud, waste, abuse and errors in real-time; and drive greater quality, safety and affordability for plan members in support of ATRIO Health Plan's mission of delivering high quality health insurance at a reasonable price for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries.

Health[at]Scale logo (PRNewsfoto/Health at Scale Corporation)

With the increasing prevalence and continuously evolving patterns of fraud, waste, abuse and errors in the healthcare industry, the use of AI-powered technology has become an essential tool to help health plans identify and eliminate wasteful and often unsafe spending. Over $345 billion in healthcare spend is wasted annually to low-value care services. These services provide little or no benefit, incur unnecessary costs, waste limited resources, and have the potential to cause harm. Eliminating fraud, waste, abuse and errors is critical to optimizing healthcare outcomes and spending for payers, providers, employers and TPAs, but has traditionally been difficult to accomplish using rules-based payment integrity systems that are manually intensive to develop and maintain, limited to detecting patterns of low-value care that are obvious and known, and affected by high rates of false positives and false negatives.

Health at Scale's smart AI-powered fraud, waste, abuse and error detection technology goes beyond traditional rules-based payment integrity systems and identifies low-value care by using a clinically-nuanced, deeply context-aware and hyper-personalized understanding of the patient, the provider, the time and the care setting. By factoring in a 360-view of every healthcare service and transaction, Health at Scale's AI reduces false positives and false negatives while continuously self-learning new patterns of low-value care as they emerge, flagging fraud, waste, abuse and errors with unprecedented accuracy and actionability.

Story continues

"We are excited to partner with ATRIO Health Plans around our industry-leading capabilities to reduce fraud, waste, abuse and errors," said Zeeshan Syed, CEO of Health at Scale. "Our technology has been able to meaningfully reduce low-value care for health plans  something that has been a hard problem to solve for decades and continues to drive up costs. We look forward to working with ATRIO Health Plans to bring this innovative capability to their Medicare Advantage plans and to support their mission of providing high-quality, cost-effective healthcare to their members."

"After completing substantial due diligence of the market landscape, we have found that the tools and technology that Health at Scale offers health plans is best-in-class based on what we have seen, and look forward to working with Health at Scale across our entire book of business," said Jennifer Callahan, Chief Operating Officer of ATRIO Health Plans.

About Health at Scale

Health at Scale uses advanced AI to drive smart, hyper-personalized, context-aware care delivery and management. Founded by machine learning and clinical faculty from MIT, Harvard, Stanford and the University of Michigan, the company brings precision to healthcare across a broad range of use cases, including: fraud, waste and abuse prevention, reduction of medical and drug errors, provider navigation and network curation, and early targeted prediction and prevention of adverse outcomes. For more information, please visit healthatscale.com.

About ATRIO Health Plans

ATRIO Health Plans is a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan established in 2004 that offers Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) options as well as a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Special Needs Plans for Dual Eligible. The health plan is supported by the trusted physicians who care for Medicare beneficiaries in Oregon and Nevada. For more information, visit atriohp.com.

Cision

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SOURCE Health at Scale Corporation
Developer Now Taking Sales Reservations For Buildings 2 & 3

PORT ARANSAS, Texas, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Building One of the highly anticipated Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences in Port Aransas is now open and welcoming guests who wish to enjoy an upscale beach vacation experience on the Texas Gulf Coast.

The extensive use of glass and windows maximizes the gorgeous view from the Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort.

Featuring 21 contemporary, high-end residences with expansive sun terraces and views of the Gulf of Mexico, pool or Corpus Christi Bay, Building One represents the first of three phases that will open in the coming months.

Architect Jay Corder of Austin, Texas, who attended high school in Port Aransas designed the one-, two- and three-bedroom Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort using a more modern, clean design than is typically found on Mustang Island.

The residences, which overlook the main central park area at the resort, make extensive use of glass and windows to maximize the gorgeous views. "The sunrises and sunsets from the terraces are just beautiful," said Kastle Kelley, general manager of Silver Sands Vacation Rentals, a member of the VTrips family of vacation rental brands and the official vacation rental management partner for the residences. Kelley added that each of the residences is accessible via coded, air-conditioned common space. "This is the only condominium in the area offering this feature."

In the living space, window systems are 12 to 16 feet wide and operate with sliding glass doors that open to large, covered sun terraces. Nine-foot ceilings add to the sense of spaciousness while wireless NEST thermostats and keyless programmable locks enhance convenience.

Buyers were able to choose from three luxury interior packages curated by Butter Lutz Interior Design of Austin and featuring kitchens with Italian Bertazzoni stainless-steel appliances, 3cm quartz countertops, contemporary slab cabinetry with integrated pantries, and a built-in bar with a beverage center. The Bertazzoni gas range and convection oven was offered in black, white, yellow, orange and red.

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Kelley said guests vacationing at the Pool Residences enjoy access to the Sunflower Great Lawn, a large family pool with shallow beach entry, poolside cabanas, Turtle's seasonal poolside bar and grill, a covered pavilion for live music and private events, and a separate adult pool with shaded lounge areas and a cascading fountain wall.

The developer for the Pool Residences at Sunflower Beach Resort & Residences is taking sales reservations for phases two and three. For sales information, call (361) 749-2366 or visit sunflowerbeach.com. To book a vacation reservation, call (361) 749-32600, option 2, or visit silversandsvacationrentals.com/sunflower-beach-resort-and-residences.

ABOUT VTRIPS: Founded in 2006 by visionary Steve Milo as a management solution for his own Florida rental properties, VTrips is one of the fastest-growing vacation rental management companies in the United States. Now with more than 15 brands and 6,000 private vacation villas, condominiums and homes in resort destinations throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, VTrips believes in staffing its nationwide offices with local experts dedicated to exceeding the expectations of property owners and vacationers. More information at VTrips.com.

ABOUT SILVER SANDS: Silver Sands Vacation Rentals is the premier property management company servicing vacation rental properties in North Padre Island, Mustang Island and Port Aransas, Texas. A member of the VTrips family of vacation rental brands, Silver Sands manages all aspects of the vacation rental experience for guests and property owners in condos within resort complexes and private homes. With more than 6,000 vacation rental properties in a portfolio that stretches across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, VTrips leads the industry in managing vacation rental properties throughout the United States.

Cision

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SOURCE VTrips
HORIZONTE MINERALS PLC COMPLETES DRAWDOWN OF US$50 MILLION FROM SECOND TRANCHE UNDER SENIOR DEBT FACILITIES

LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / February 27. 2023 / Horizonte Minerals Plc (AIM:HZM)(TSX:HZM) ("Horizonte" or the "Company")is pleased to announce that it has drawn down US$50 million from the second tranche of its senior secured project finance debt facility of US$346.2 million (the "Senior Debt Facility"). These funds are to continue the construction of Horizonte's 100%-owned Araguaia Nickel Project ("Araguaia" or "the Project") in Brazil.

On 16 March 2022, Horizonte announced the closing of a US$346.2 million project finance debt facility comprising of the following:

Commercial senior facility of US$200,000,000 provided by the Senior Lenders;

ECA facility of US$74,562,000 guaranteed by EKF; and

ECA facility of US$71,638,000 guaranteed by Finnvera.

All conditions precedent for the second tranche of Senior Debt Facility have been satisfied and funds received. Further tranches of the Senior Debt Facility will be drawn down as required.

To date US$465 million capital expenditure has been awarded which includes the majority of the key long lead items. The remaining Project capital commitment is comprised of US$18 million for process related equipment, US$19 million for overall site construction with the balance being costs that relate to materials and operational readiness in the lead up to first production.

Jeremy Martin, CEO of Horizonte, commented:

"I am pleased to announce that Horizonte has successfully drawn down a second tranche of US$50 million from its Senior Debt Facility. The funds will help to advance the construction of Araguaia. With over US$465 million of committed capital to date, this gives us confidence around continued progress to schedule and budget".

About the Senior Debt Facility

The Senior Debt Facility was executed between Araguaia Niquel Metais LTDA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Horizonte and a syndicate of international financial institutions (being BNP Paribas, BNP Paribas Fortis, ING Capital LLC, ING Bank N.V., Natixis, New York Branch, Societe Generale and SEK, Swedish Export Credit Corporation) (together the "Senior Lenders"). The Senior Debt Facility comprises a commercial tranche of US$200 million and an ECA tranche of US$146.2 million which is being guaranteed by two export credit agencies (being EKF, Denmark's Export Credit Agency and Finnvera plc, Finland's Export Credit Agency).

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For the purposes of MAR and Article 2 of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2016/1055 (as transposed into the laws of the United Kingdom), the person responsible for arranging for the release of this Announcement on behalf of the Company is Simon Retter, Chief Financial Officer.

For further information, visit www.horizonteminerals.com or contact:

Horizonte Minerals plc

Jeremy Martin (CEO)

Simon Retter (CFO)

Patrick Chambers (Head of IR) info@horizonteminerals.com

+44 (0) 203 356 2901 Peel Hunt LLP (Nominated Adviser & Joint Broker)

Ross Allister

David McKeown +44 (0)20 7418 8900 BMO (Joint Broker)

Thomas Rider

Pascal Lussier Duquette

Andrew Cameron +44 (0) 20 7236 1010 Tavistock (Financial PR)

Emily Moss

Cath Drummond +44 (0) 20 7920 3150

ABOUT HORIZONTE MINERALS

Horizonte Minerals plc (AIM & TSX: HZM) is developing two 100%-owned, Tier 1 projects in Para state, Brazil, the Araguaia Nickel Project and the Vermelho Nickel-Cobalt Project. Both projects are large scale, high-grade, low-cost, low-carbon and scalable. Araguaia is under construction with first metal scheduled for early 2024, when fully ramped up with Line 1 and Line 2, is forecast to produce 29,000 tonnes of nickel per year. Vermelho is at feasibility study stage and is expected to produce 25,000 tonnes of nickel and 1,250 tonnes of cobalt to supply the EV battery market. Horizonte's combined near-term production profile of over 60,000 tonnes of nickel per year positions the Company as a globally significant nickel producer. Horizonte's top three shareholders are La Mancha Investments S.a r.l., Glencore plc and Orion Resource Partners LLP.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the ability of the Company to complete the acquisition of equipment as described herein, statements with respect to the potential of the Company's current or future property mineral projects; the ability of the Company to complete a positive feasibility study regarding the second RKEF line at Araguaia on time, or at all, the success of exploration and mining activities; cost and timing of future exploration, production and development; the costs and timing for delivery of the equipment to be purchased as described herein, the estimation of mineral resources and reserves and the ability of the Company to achieve its goals in respect of growing its mineral resources; the realization of mineral resource and reserve estimates and achieving production in accordance with the Company's potential production profile or at all. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to risks related to: the inability of the Company to complete the acquisition of equipment contemplated herein, on time or at all, the ability of the Company to complete a positive feasibility study regarding the implementation of a second RKEF line at Araguaia on the timeline contemplated or at all, exploration and mining risks, competition from competitors with greater capital; the Company's lack of experience with respect to development-stage mining operations; fluctuations in metal prices; uninsured risks; environmental and other regulatory requirements; exploration, mining and other licences; the Company's future payment obligations; potential disputes with respect to the Company's title to, and the area of, its mining concessions; the Company's dependence on its ability to obtain sufficient financing in the future; the Company's dependence on its relationships with third parties; the Company's joint ventures; the potential of currency fluctuations and political or economic instability in countries in which the Company operates; currency exchange fluctuations; the Company's ability to manage its growth effectively; the trading market for the ordinary shares of the Company; uncertainty with respect to the Company's plans to continue to develop its operations and new projects; the Company's dependence on key personnel; possible conflicts of interest of directors and officers of the Company, and various risks associated with the legal and regulatory framework within which the Company operates, together with the risks identified and disclosed in the Company's disclosure record available on the Company's profile on SEDAR atwww.sedar.com, including without limitation, the annual information form of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2021, the Araguaia Report and the Vermelho Report. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Horizonte Minerals PLC





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/740866/Horizonte-Minerals-PLC-Announces-Second-Drawdown-Complete




The Insight Partners

The industrial workwear and gear market growth is attributed to the increasing adoption in end-use industries such as food processing, automotive, construction, mining, and oil & gas.

New York, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Insight Partners published latest research study on  Industrial Workwear and Gear Market Size, Industry Trends and Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis By Product Type (Workwear and Uniforms, Protective Wear and Gear, Footwear, Gloves, and Others), Category (Men, Unisex, and Women), and End-Use Industry (Construction, Oil and Gas, Chemicals, Heavy Industries and Manufacturing, Mining, Pharmaceuticals, and Others). The market is expected to grow from US$ 43.73 Billion in 2022 to US$ 63.07 Billion by 2028; it is estimated to record a CAGR of 6.3% from 2022 to 2028.





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Global Industrial Workwear and Gear Market Report Scope, Segmentations, Regional & Country Scope:

Market Size Value in USD 43.73 Billion in 2022 Market Size Value by USD 63.07 Billion by 2028 Growth rate CAGR of 6.3% from 2022 to 2028 Forecast Period 2022-2028 Base Year 2022 No. of Pages 170 Historical data available Yes Segments covered Product Type, Category, and End-Use Industry Global Industrial Workwear and Gear Market Forecast to 2028 - Latest COVID-19 Analysis https://www.theinsightpartners.com/covid-analysis-sample/TIPRE00029829/





Increase in Number of Industrial Accidents Boosts Market Growth

Industrial accidents are one of the major concerns across various industries. Accidents can lead to severe consequences on human health. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), ~2.78 million work-related deaths are recorded yearly, of which 2.4 million are related to occupational diseases. Additionally, ~340 million occupational accidents and 160 million work-related illness victims are reported annually worldwide. The ILO stated that most of the deaths among workers are caused due to work-related diseases. Hazardous substances alone are estimated to cause 651,279 deaths per year. Many industries, such as construction, mining, oil & gas, automotive, and chemical, record numerous work-related deaths and injuries. Further, researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago found that ~71% of workers in various industries suffer from injuries at one point in time. Thus, the demand for protective workwear has surged among various industries to prevent such injuries.

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Europe held the largest share of the industrial workwear and gear market in 2021. The development of more versatile and wearable pieces, sustainable clothing, and embedded new technologies are the most significant trends in this market. Moreover, the rise in occupational accidents, especially in the manufacturing and construction industries, is likely to fuel the demand for workwear and gear for workers in Europe. According to Eurostats January 2022 report, there were 3,408 fatal accidents at work in Europe in 2019, recording an increase of 76 deaths compared to 2018. The construction sector accounted for more than 20% of fatal accidents at work in the EU. The growing competition among manufacturers, processors, and importers is further influencing the industrial workwear and gear market growth.

Industrial Workwear and Gear Market: Competitive Landscape and Key Developments

Carhartt, Inc.; ARAMARK; Alsico Group; A. LAFONT SAS; Honeywell International Inc.; Hultafors Group AB; Lakeland Industries Inc.; VF Corporation; Ansell Ltd.; Hultafors Group AB; and Mustang Workwear are a few of the major players operating in the industrial workwear and gear market. Companies in this market focus on strategies such as investments in research and development activities and new product launches.





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Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Industrial Workwear and Gear Market

Based on product type, the industrial workwear and gear market is segmented into workwear and uniforms, protective wear and gear, footwear, gloves, and others. The workwear and uniforms segment held the largest market share in 2021. Different industries have unique uniforms designed based on the type of work in the industry; for example, the automotive industry involves a lot of hard and, sometimes, dirty work. Uniforms worn by automotive technicians require durable coveralls, or shirts and pants that will hold up to their demanding work. Although providing protection to workers is not the primary function of workwear and uniforms, they represent discipline in workplaces.

Based on end-use industry, the industrial workwear and gear market is segmented into construction, oil and gas, chemicals, heavy industries and manufacturing, mining, pharmaceuticals, and others. The oil and gas segment is projected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Workers from the oil & gas industries are at a high risk of fire and explosion caused by the ignition of flammable vapors or gases. Thus, this industry demands flame-resistant and insulated industrial workwear to protect workers from fire and explosion-related injuries.

Industrial Workwear and Gear Market: Segmental Overview

Based on product type, the global Industrial Workwear and Gear market is segmented into pads, rolls, pillows, booms, socks, and others. The booms segment held the largest market share in 2022. Absorbent booms help concentrate oil in thicker surface layers so that vacuums, skimmers, or other collection methods can be used with greater efficiency. As booms are resistant to acids and hydrocarbon fluids, they are widely used in the oil & gas industry. Moreover, absorbent booms absorb water-based fluids to efficiently contain hydrocarbon fluids such as vegetable oils, diesel, and hydraulic oils. The availability of absorbent booms with extremely high liquid retention abilities contributes to the dominance of the booms segment in the Industrial Workwear and Gear market.

Based on type, the global Industrial Workwear and Gear market is segmented into universal, oil-only, and hazmat/chemical. The hazmat/chemical segment held the largest market share in 2022, and the oil-only segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Hazmat/chemical absorbent is used to handle and clean up spills of acids, bases, paints, unknown liquids, and corrosive and hazardous chemicals. Regulations related to chemical spills drive the demand for hazmat/chemical absorbents in the chemicals industry.

Based on end-use industry, the Industrial Workwear and Gear market is segmented into oil & gas, chemical, food processing, healthcare, automotive, and others. The oil & gas segment held the largest market share in 2022, and the chemical segment is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Industrial Workwear and Gear are used to clear oil spills in the oil & gas industry. These absorbents have hydrophobic fibers which repel water (and float), absorbing only oils and other hydrocarbons. Even when fully saturated, they still float on water. This makes these pads ideal for use around water and in wet conditions. Oil and chemical spills are common in the oil & gas industry. Oil spills have hazardous effects on the environment and are a major concern for environmental degradation. Thus, the use of industrial absorbent in oil & gas production industries reduces the effects of spills on the environment.





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Impact Of COVID-19 Pandemic on Industrial Workwear and Gear Market

Before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for industrial workwear and gear was high in various industrial sectors. However, industries faced unprecedented challenges during the pandemic in 2020. Moreover, workwear and industrial gear manufacturers faced significant challenges in production and distribution due to supply chain constraints caused by nationwide lockdowns, trade bans, and travel restrictions, which eventually led to price hikes. However, the COVID-19 pandemic also had a favorable impact on the industrial workwear and gear market to a certain extent. The demand for industrial workwear and gear such as personal protective equipment (PPE) kits increased in research laboratories contributing to the development of vaccines for different SARS-CoV-2 variants, to prevent direct exposure of employees to the virus. With an abrupt rise in demand, PPE manufacturers ramped up their production capacities.













Browse Adjoining Reports:





Smart Clothing Market Forecast to 2027 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis by Type (Active, Passive, and Ultra-Smart), Orientation Type (Apparel, Footwear, Wearable Patches, and Others), Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and RFID), End-User (Healthcare, Fashion and Lifestyle, Sport and Fitness, Military, and Others)





Disposable Protective Clothing Market Forecast to 2028 - Covid-19 Impact and Global Analysis - by Material Type (Polyethylene, Polypropylene, Polyester, Others); Application (Thermal, Visibility, Mechanical, Chemical, Biological/Radiation, Others); End-Use Industry (Construction, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas, Healthcare, Mining, Defense and Public Safety, Energy and Power, Others) and Geography





Industrial Protective Clothing Fabrics Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis By Product Type (Durable, Disposable); Application (Flame Retardant Apparel, Chemical Defending Garments) and Geography





School Uniform Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis By Product Type (Topwear, Bottomwear, Footwear, and Others), Category (Boys and Girls), and Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, and Others)







Scrub Suits Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis By Product Type (Women Scrub Suits, Men Scrub Suits, and Unisex Scrub Suits), Fabric Type (Cotton, Polyester, Spandex, Rayon, Blends, and Others), and Distribution Channel (Mass Merchandizers, Specialized Stores, Online, and Others)





Recycled Textile Market Forecast to 2027 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis by Type (Recycled Cotton, Recycled Wool, Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon, and Others), End-user Industry (Automotive, Retail, Mining, and Others) and Geography





Healthcare Workwear Market Forecast to 2027 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis by Product (Coveralls, Gowns, and Others), and End-Use (Hospitals, Home Healthcare, Outpatient/Primary Care Facilities, and Others)





Fall Protection Equipment Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis By Type (Soft Goods, Hard Goods, Rescue Kits, Body Belts, Full Body Harness, and Others) and Application (Construction, Transportation, Oil & Gas, Mining, Energy and Utilities, Telecom, and Others)





About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials.





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Future Market Insights Global and Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

FMI expects the United Kingdom market for infant formula to hold an 8.6% share in the global industry between 2023 and 2033. Germany is another market that FMI anticipates will do well in the years ahead. The United States, with 18.9% share in the global market, is dominating the baby formula industry.

NEWARK, Del, Feb. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Future Market Insights (FMI), the infant formula market is likely to reach a value of US$ 49.9 billion in 2023. It is anticipated to surpass US$ 114.1 billion in 2033. Between 2023 and 2033, a robust CAGR of 8.5% is likely to propel market acceleration.



Infants need a variety of micronutrients for their overall development. Those micronutrients occur naturally in human milk. However, for preterm babies, human milk alone may not be sufficient in providing all the necessary micronutrients. This is where infant formulas can be helpful.

Infant formulas contain several micronutrients that make them similar to human milk. As a result, they are ideal for ensuring the proper physical and mental development of babies. Most infant formula companies use ingredients derived from cows milk such as whey and casein.

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However, certain babies may be allergic to casein and whey. For such babies, infant formulas derived from soy protein are ideal. Several baby formula manufacturers are also engaging in product innovations by deriving ingredients from plant-based sources.

FMI anticipates the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and India to dominate the global market for infant formula between 2023 and 2033. Across these countries, private and public players are taking firm initiatives to encourage adoption of infant formulas for supporting the development of babies.

From 2023 to 2033, the market is likely to encounter particular challenges as well. For instance, in rural parts of developing nations, people still shy away from using infant formulas and rely exclusively on breastfeeding.

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Key Takeaways from the Report:

The global infant formula market is expected to reach a market valuation of US$ 114.1 billion in 2033.

A positive CAGR of 8.5 % is likely to accelerate the market from 2023 to 2033.

The United States is anticipated to account for an 18.9% share in the global market.

The United Kingdom is set to hold a 9.6% share in the global market.

Powdered infant formulas are poised to dominate sales in the coming years owing to their easy availability and affordability.



Several infant formula companies have come under fire in the recent past for their misleading marketing campaigns. In the years ahead, both key and emerging players have to be cautious of how they market their products to avoid harsh sanctions from local governments and international governments.-Says an FMI Analyst.

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Who is Winning?

The global market for infant formula consists of emerging as well as established players. Irrespective of the size of market participants, all of them are likely to diversify their products in the coming years. Through product diversification, they can expand their global reach and strengthen their respective grasps on the market.

Nestle, Abbott Nutrition, Groupe Danone, The Kraft Heinz Company, Synutra International Inc., Mead Johnson Nutrition, Beingmate Baby & Child Food Co. Ltd, Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd., Friesland Campina, and Pfizer Inc. are the key players in the global infant formula market.

Get More Valuable Insights

Future Market Insights, in its new offering, provides an unbiased analysis of the global infant formula market market, presenting historical demand data (2018 to 2022) and forecast statistics for the period from 2023 to 2033. The study divulges compelling insights on the infant formula market based on product type (starting milk, follow-on-milk, toddlers milk, special milk), ingredient (whey protein concentrate, soy protein concentrate, protein hydrolysate), form (liquid, powder, ready-to-eat), and distribution channel (store-based retailing, online retailers) across seven regions.

About the Food & Beverage Division at Future Market Insights

Expert analysis, actionable insights, and strategic recommendations  the food & beverage team at Future Market Insights helps clients from all over the globe with their unique business intelligence needs. With a repertoire of over 1,000 reports and 1 million+ data points, the team has analyzed the food & beverage industry lucidly in 50+ countries for over a decade. The team provides end-to-end research and consulting services; reach out to explore how we can help.

Talk to Analyst@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-question/rep-gb-838

Global Infant Formula Market by Category

By Product Type:

Starting Milk

Follow-On-Milk

Toddlers Milk

Special Milk

By Ingredient:

Whey Protein Concentrate

Soy Protein Concentrate

Protein Hydrolysate



By Form:

Powder

Liquid

Ready to Feed



By Distribution Channel:

Store-based retailing Convenience Store Hypermarkets/ Supermarkets Pharmacy/Medical stores Food Specialist Other Grocery Retailers

Online retail



Table of Content

1. Executive Summary | Infant Formula Market

1.1. Global Market Outlook

1.2. Demand Side Trends

1.3. Supply Side Trends

1.4. Technology Roadmap

1.5. Analysis and Recommendations

2. Market Overview

2.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

2.2. Market Definition

3. Market Dynamics

3.1. Drivers

3.1.1. Supply Side Drivers

3.1.2. Demand Side drivers

3.1.3. Economic Side Drivers

3.2. Restraints

3.3. Opportunity

3.4. Market trends by Region

Browse the Full Report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/infant-formula-market

Explore FMIs Extensive Coverage in Food & Beverage Domain:

Infant Formula Ingredients Market Size: The market value is projected to increase to US$ 32.8 Bn by 2032. At present, the total market valuation accounts for US$ 16.3 Billion in 2022.

Lactose-free Infant Formula Market Share: The global lactose-free infant formula market is estimated to exceed US$ 36 Bn by the end of 2032.

Infant Nutritional Premix Market Forecast: According to Future Market Insights (FMI), The Global Infant Nutritional Premix Market size was estimated at USD 235 million in 2021 and expected to reach USD 370 million in 2032

Baby Food Market Demand: The baby food market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 79.9 billion in 2023.

BRIC Organic Baby Food Market Analysis: The BRIC organic baby food market is anticipated to be worth US$ 5.5 billion in terms of revenue in 2023.

About Future Market Insights, Inc.

Future Market Insights, Inc. is an ESOMAR-certified business consulting & market research firm, a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and is headquartered in Delaware, USA. A recipient of Clutch Leaders Award 2022 on account of high client score (4.9/5), we have been collaborating with global enterprises in their business transformation journey and helping them deliver on their business ambitions. 80% of the largest Forbes 1000 enterprises are our clients. We serve global clients across all leading & niche market segments across all major industries.

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Fortune Business Insights

Rising R&D Activities in Zinc-air Battery and Advancements in Electric Vehicles to Fuel Market Growth: Says Fortune Business InsightsTM

Pune, India, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global zinc-air battery market size is anticipated to hit USD 196.7 million by 2028 and exhibit a CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period. The market size stood at USD 112.2 million in 2020 and USD 117.0 million in 2021. The growing research and development activities in zinc-air batteries and escalating advancements in electric vehicles are expected to boost the market growth. Fortune Business InsightsTM has presented this information in its report titled, Zinc-air Battery Market, 2021-2028. Additionally, rising adoption of renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and others for power generation is likely to augment the demand for battery energy storage systems and complement the zinc-air battery market growth.

Industry Development

May 2021: Researchers at South Koreas Hanyang University developed a new kind of zinc air cell pouch that enhances anti-freezing properties, ion-discerning property, compatibility for crosslinking, and resistance towards swelling for zinc-air batteries.

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Zinc-air Battery Market Scope:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2021-2028 Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 7.7% 2028 Value Projection USD 196.7 billion Base Year 2020 Market Size in 2020 USD 112.2 billion Historical Data for 2017-2019 No. of Pages 165 Segments covered Type, Application, Region Growth Drivers Increased Research and Development Activities in Zinc-Air Battery Will Propel Market Higher Capacity of Zinc-air batteries and Economical Advantage Will attract significant Investment from Leading Manufacturers

Drivers & Restraints:

Increasing R&D Activities in Electric Vehicles to Fuel Market Growth

The increasing research and development activities in zinc-air batteries for usage in electric vehicles and energy storage devices are expected to fuel the zinc-air battery market growth. The economic advantages of zinc-air batteries such as lower manufacturing costs over the lithium-ion battery and higher energy density are expected to stimulate market growth. The increasing efforts by key players to improve batterys characteristics are anticipated to create lucrative growth opportunities for the market.

The rising adoption of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, for power generation is expected to favor the market growth. The growing concern to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is anticipated to augment the demand for battery storage systems and is thus anticipated to complement the market growth.

Lastly, the growing advancements in electric vehicles are expected to fuel the market growth.

However, health concerns due to mercurys presence may restrain the market growth.

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COVID-19 Hampered the Market Growth:



The sudden rapid spread of the coronavirus pandemic has hindered the market growth. Disruptions in batteries and other vital components supply have hampered the market growth. Shutdowns of manufacturing plants, halted construction projects and activities, and supply chain disruptions due to the pandemic have negatively affected the market growth. Nonetheless, the market is stabilizing as the global economy is gradually recovering from the pandemics extensive impact.



To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market, please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/zinc-air-battery-market-105758



Regional Insights

Asia Pacific to hold the Lions Share

Asia Pacific is anticipated to dominate the global zinc-air battery market share. Japan and China account for a large electric vehicle market globally. The high adoption of zinc-air batteries for application in electric vehicles is likely to bolster the regions market growth. Additionally, the growing investments in renewable energy and R&D activities to improve batterys efficacy are expected to complement the regions market growth.

North America is anticipated to exhibit stable growth. The U.S. is likely to lead the regional market. The vast presence of market players and their increasing efforts to develop optimal zinc-air batteries are anticipated to boost the regions market growth.

Europe is projected to exhibit substantial growth due to increasing government emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. France, Argentina, Germany, and other European countries have set targets to reach zero CO2 emissions by 2050. Additionally, projects, such as NECOBAUT, to develop modern batteries for the automotive industry are anticipated to augment the regions market growth.

The rest of the world is predicted to register significant growth due to increasing urbanization.

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Competitive Landscape



Key players Emphasize Developing Optimal Zinc-air Batteries

The major market players emphasize developing optimal zinc-air battery to attain lucrative growth opportunities. For instance, Ashok Leyland and Hindustan Zinc collaborated with IIT-Madras to develop zinc-air batteries in September 2020.

List of Key Players Covered in the Report

Duracell (U.S.)

Ravoyac (U.S.)

Nantenergy (U.S.)

Electric Fuel Battery Corporation (U.S.)

ZAF Energy System (U.S.)

Varta AG (Germany)

GP Batteries (Hong Kong)

Phinenergy (Israel)

Thunderzee (U.S.)

Renata SA (Switzerland)

AZA Battery (Belgium)

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Table of Content:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Key Emerging Trends Key Developments: Mergers, Acquisitions, Partnership, etc. Latest Technological Advancement Regulatory Landscape Porters Five Forces Analysis

Qualitative Analysis  Impact of COVID-19 Impact of COVID-19 on Zinc-Air Battery Market Steps Taken by the Government to Overcome the Impact Key Developments in the Industry in Response to COVID-19 Potential Opportunities and Challenges due to COVID-19 Outbreak

Global Zinc-Air Battery Market Analysis (USD Million), Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Type Non-Rechargeable Rechargeable Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Hearing Aids Military Devices Safety Lamps Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Rest of World

North America Zinc-Air Battery Market Analysis (USD Million), Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Type Non-Rechargeable Rechargeable Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Hearing Aids Military Devices Safety Lamps Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country U.S. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Hearing Aids Military Devices Safety Lamps Others Canada Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Hearing Aids Military Devices Safety Lamps Others

Competitive Analysis Company Market Share Analysis, 2020 Company Profile



Duracell Business Overview Product & Service Offering Overall Revenue Recent Development



Continued

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Omi Medical Center, part of the Seikoukai Social Medical Corporation and one of Japan's leading institutions in the use of advanced medical technologies, announced it is partnering with TriNetX to increase its exposure and participation in multi-national industry-sponsored clinical trials.

TriNetX, Inc. Logo

"The use of Japanese pharmaceuticals has dropped from 20% to less than 10% of the global market over the past 30 years," said Atsuyuki Wada, Special Assistant to the President and Director, Clinical Research Center, Omi Medical Center. "Japan also ranks around 30th in the number of global clinical trials, and as a result clinicians in the country have fewer opportunities to learn about innovative treatments, medicines, and the benefits they can bring to patients. One of our goals of joining the TriNetX Network is to reverse this trend and help Japanese patients suffering from a wide variety of challenging diseases."

Omi Medical Center, located in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is one of the institutions in western Japan that offers state-of-the-art medical and surgical care in the fields of cardiovascular, obstetrics and gynecology, gastroenterology, and head and neck. The center provides a wide range of services including emergency medicine, community healthcare, oncology-related community support, and disaster medicine to the people of the surrounding area, which is experiencing population growth.

"The partnership agreement between Omi Medical Center and TriNetX will be a meaningful opportunity to improve Japan's healthcare system as a whole," continued Wada. "TriNetX will provide Omi Medical Center with the opportunity to join a global community of pharmaceutical companies and healthcare organizations. This will allow us to strengthen our collaborations with other peer institutions, gain opportunities to participate in clinical trials, and ensure the safe and legal secondary use of real-world data for the benefit of our patients."

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"Omi Medical Center is a fantastic addition to the TriNetX Networkthe first healthcare organization in Western Japan, and now a part of our rapidly expanding community of TriNetX members in the country and across the APAC region," said Shogo Wakabayashi, Country Manager, Japan at TriNetX.

About TriNetX, LLC

TriNetX is a global network of healthcare organizations and life sciences companies driving real-world research to accelerate the development of new therapies. Through its self-service, HIPAA, GDPR, and LGPD-compliant platform of federated EHR, datasets, and consulting partnerships, TriNetX puts the power of real-world data into the hands of its worldwide community to improve protocol design, streamline trial operations, refine safety signals, and enrich real-world evidence generation. For more information, visit TriNetX at www.trinetx.com or follow @TriNetX on Twitter.

About Social Medical Corporation Seikoukai

Seikoukai is located in Kusatsu, Shiga Prefecture, where the population is growing every year, a rarity in Japan. Seikoukai provides medical and nursing care services that support the community with sincerity, centering on two hospitals: Omi Medical Center (Hospital Director: Daisuke Furuya; 420 beds), which provides highly acute care, and Omi Fureai Hospital (Hospital Director: Masamitsu Hirano; 199 beds), which provides home care support functions. Omi Medical Center is committed to providing medical care for diseases such as cardiac, gastrointestinal, and orthopedic diseases, as well as laparoscopic surgery for gynecological cancer, by physicians and staff with a high level of expertise in their respective fields. The center also employs a center-based approach to realize team medicine, where surgery and internal medicine work together to break down the barriers between departments and provide seamless medical care. For more information, visit Omi Medical Center at https://www.seikoukai-sc.or.jp/omi-mc/

Media Contacts

TriNetX

Bill Stetson

(857) 285-6038

press@trinetx.com

japan@trinetx.com

Social Medical Corporation Seikoukai

Corporate PR Department

077-563-8866

t-hirohataseikoukai-sc.or.jp

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/542641/TriNetX_Logo.jpg

SOURCE TriNetX
Keill Logo

Keill full colour logo

Catherine Keill, CEO

Catherine Keill, CEO

EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Network of Giving has secured the services of Keill & Company Incorporated, headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, to support the launch of the Network of Giving as the agency of record for public relations across Canada.

The Network of Giving is a powerful hyper-local digital platform enabled by financial services, that fosters a community-minded movement through the connection of local consumers and merchants to community organizations  while creating efficiencies in digital fundraising.

The Network of Giving will connect communities and businesses together and we are excited to bring the platform to the Canadian market to help lift businesses and communities alike, said Catherine Keill, CEO of Keill & Company Inc. The Network of Giving is a purpose-driven digital commerce platform that makes advanced reporting available to small and medium-sized businesses and allows them to be at the core of community restoration and prosperity. We are thrilled to be included in this exceptional program!

The Network of Giving drives increased customer loyalty and sales with measured results while generating micro-donations directed to nonprofits, at no cost to the consumer. The Network of Givings DNA is founded on the core principles of service, accountability, and innovation to better the lives of those in the community, said David Saalfrank, Chief Evangelist of the Network of Giving. The Keill team understands our work deeply and is a mission-driven partner that will bring their heart to our work across the country maximizing the potential of the platform.

About Keill & Company Inc.

Keill & Company Inc is a mission-driven communications and public relations agency headquartered in Edmonton with operations in Calgary. The Keill team supports clients across Canada to drive exciting ideas, excellent outcomes, and nothing else. With access to a network of high-calibre communications professionals, the Keill team is a one-stop shop for organizations looking to optimize communications activities in a crowded, increasingly digital, world. Our team of experts works with our client's internal teams to amplify communications activities, define outcomes, refine efforts, maximize impact, and focus on success. Our goal is to provide clients with the tools and skills they need to be successful with their communications programs and then to get out of the way so clients can activate those programs. Our passion is helping client teams do their work better and achieve great results. To learn more about us, visit keill.ca.

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About Network of Giving

The Network of Giving is committed to providing financial and social empowerment to drive positive change in communities and the world. The Network of Giving SaaS platform utilizes digital commerce and is enabled by financial institutions, connecting local consumers, merchants, and non-profit community organizations. This connection empowers consumers to shop at local businesses triggering micro-donations that impact their communities  at no cost to the consumer.

The Network of Giving platform is powered by SMB4.0. It delivers marketing guidance for local businesses to enhance customer acquisition and retention, while driving business decisions through key analytics and real-time actionable insights. More on Network of Giving: networkofgiving.com

Attachments

CONTACT: Catherine Keill Keill & Company Inc 780 690 5283 catherine@keill.ca




Partners, volunteers and corporate associates joined shoulders on this movement toward greater good

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With few days left to the show, the organiser has released the full event program that is anticipated by many. A record of 132 exhibitors representing social, charitable, community and corporate foundations will be showcasing their vision, mission, and activities. Two panel discussions and 20 presentations over the two-day event themed "Kindness Unites Humanity" is expected to be attended by 3000 visitors.

Kind Malaysia 2023 is committed to welcoming the advocate of kindness

Taking place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), the two-day expo will run from 2 to 3 March 2023. This two-day event is featuring high-level keynotes, panel discussions, seminars, experience sharing, performances, educational content, and relationship-building initiatives. Participants will also get the chance to stay on the pulse of the latest in humanitarian innovations and the best current practices currently being employed.

The panel discussion on the first day themed "Kindness Unites Humanity" will particularly delve into the homegrown success stories of non-profit and social enterprises that have kindness as their core purpose and their journey to building sustainable organisations. This session will also include mini-stories of how a corporate company came together with them to work on solving the issues they are working on eradicating. This session will be moderated by Mr. John-Son Oei, Founder of Epic Homes and Marketing Director of Kechara Soup Kitchen; Mr. Justin Cheah, Co-Founder of Kloath Cares; Ms. Nik Suzila, and Founder of Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre; Dr. Wong Siew Te will be joining as panelists.

On the second day, the floor will be shared by experts to discuss the topic of Building A Better Future Together: Corporates Empowering Changemakers. The session will be moderated by Mr. Zaim Mohzani, Co-Founder of Nation Building School & Malaysia Jobs Coalition. The panelists will be the Head of Communication Development of Yayasan Hasanah; Ms. Anita Ahmad, Head of the School of Media and Communication at Taylor's University; Ms. Prema Ponnudurai, and Founder and Managing Director of NGO Hub; Mr. Chun Wah Hoo.

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"They will be sharing the best practices of how Malaysian Corporates companies have innovatively used their sustainable program to empower changemakers in Malaysia to build a better future together and give real-world examples of successful initiatives and the lessons learned from them." said YBhg. Tan Sri Dato' Asmat Kamaludin, Chairman of Kind Malaysia and DSA Exhibition & Conference Sdn Bhd, the co-organiser of Kind Malaysia 2023.

This year's installment features a significant exhibitors line-up comprising distinguished organisations both from the corporate sectors and NGOs that bring with them sound experience and insights from their respective missions. Until today, 132 organisations and independent artists will be participating. Among the corporate organisations are Bursa Malaysia Berhad, CIMB Bank Berhad, International Psychology Centre, Yayasan Hasanah and few others. For the NGOs, Global Peace Foundation Malaysia, Malaysian AIDS Council, Malaysian Federation of the Deaf, Make-A-Wish Malaysia, Malaysian Medical Relief Society (MERCY Malaysia), National Council of Befrienders Malaysia, National Council for the Blind Malaysia, NGOhub, Orphancare Foundation, Pertubuhan Amal Uncle Kentang Malaysia, Persatuan Bantuan Bencana Alam Misar Malaysia, Ronald McDonald House Charities Malaysia, The Prem Rawat Foundation, United Nation Children Fund (Malaysia), WWF-Malaysia and many others will be joining and sharing their initiative to the audience.

"Kind Malaysia is an initiative co-sponsored by 23 corporates from the business events industry: utilising our trade exhibition and conference organising expertise for a greater good. This is a potluck of kindness" said YBhg. Datuk (Dr) M Gandhi, the cofounder of Kind Malaysia and Chairman of Bumiati Holdings Sdn Bhd.

Kind Malaysia 2023 is a unique platform and the only one of its kind in Malaysia which aims to mobilise civil society and the corporate sector to champion kindness as part of its agenda. Everyone is invited to attend this event to celebrate this kindness initiative together.

To register for the expo, or gain more information on the event program, visit: https://kindmalaysia.com/ .

SOURCE Kind Malaysia
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Klondike Gold Corp. (TSX.V:KG)(FRA:LBDP)(OTCQB:KDKGF) ("Klondike Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to report gold assay results from eleven diamond drill holes at the Gay Gulch Showing on the Klondike District Property (the "Property") located in the Dawson mining district, Yukon, Canada.

Highlights from Gay Gulch Showing drilling include:

Gold mineralization has been intersected by drilling over a 300-meter lateral distance. The mineralized zone is interpreted to begin at surface with a shallow southeast-directed plunge and remains open.

0.43 g/t Au over 32.7 meters in EC22-467 from 65.1 meters to 97.8 meters at 210 o azimuth.

0.42 g/t Au over 34.5 meters in EC22-468 from 38.0 meters to 72.5 meters at 290 o azimuth.

0.60 g/t Au over 27.85 meters in EC22-477 from 23.0 meters to 50.85 meters at 290 o azimuth.

Drilling intersected extensive silicification in graphite schist adjacent the schist-graphite fault associated with a modelled anticlinal fold hinge.

The recently reported high grade quartz vein sampled in outcrop came from the schist-graphite fault contact exposed at surface which assayed 4,064 g/t Au with 1,149 g/t Ag (refer to news release of February 21, 2023).

Peter Tallman, Klondike Gold's President & CEO, states "Congratulations to the Company's geology team jointly with Kluane Drilling personnel who outlined what has become a significant drill discovery at the Gay Gulch Showing. This quick' drill program, completed during a short break from nearby Stander Zone drilling, succeeded in tracing the geometry of a gold mineralized fault and determined a plunge axis "on the fly" for 300 meters length which outlines the geometry of the Gay Gulch Showing for the first time. The Company can proceed in 2023 to drill test towards establishing a third mineral resource area on the Property."

Assay results for eleven (11) drill holes, EC22-467 to EC22-477, have been received which tested the Gay Gulch Showing over a 300 meter length. Significant intersections from these holes are shown in Table 1.

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Table1: 2022 Exploration Program - Gay Gulch Showing - Significant Results

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Grade (g/t Au) Length (m) EC22-467 65.10 97.80 0.43 32.70 Including 68.80 69.80 0.69 9.60 Including 69.30 69.80 7.40 0.50 EC22-468 38.00 72.50 0.42 34.50 Including 41.00 42.00 4.49 1.00 EC22-469 NSV EC22-470 NSV EC22-471 NSV EC22-472 123.20 127.30 0.47 4.10 EC22-473 NSV EC22-474 112.54 114.28 0.83 1.74 EC22-475 100.30 100.80 0.93 0.50 And 109.90 110.40 1.33 0.50 EC22-476 33.50 64.40 0.23 30.90 Including 41.00 50.80 0.54 9.80 Including 41.00 45.00 0.83 4.00 EC22-477 23.00 50.85 0.60 27.85 Including 23.00 23.80 0.80 7.92

[NSV: no significant values]

Figure 1: Gay Gulch Showing 2022 Drill Hole Location Plan Map

Figure 2: Gay Gulch Showing location relative to the Mineral Resource areas at the Lone Star Zone and the Stander Zone

Eleven holes targeted Gay Gulch Showing mineralization in 2022. Six holes were drilled at 210 azimuth to test for gold mineralized sheeted veins comprising typical mineralization at the Gay Gulch Showing. Mineralized intersections in 210-directed holes are approximately true thickness determined from quartz vein measurements from sheeted veins. Five holes were drilled at 290 azimuth mineralization to test for the graphitic fault structure and associated mineralization. Mineralized intersections of 290-directed holes intersecting silicification and quartz veining along the graphitic fault are estimated 70% of true thickness based on indication of shallow plunge to southeast supported by 3D modeling of mineralized extents. Mineralized intervals in holes EC22-472, EC22-474, and EC22-475 are interpreted to have intersected the top of the gold mineralized envelope consistent with a southeast plunge. Mineralization remains open and untested to the southeast.

Drill hole details including coordinates, orientation, dip, and length of hole are provided in Table 2 below.

Table 2: Drill Collar Summary for 2022 exploration program at Gay Gulch Showing

Hole ID UTM East UTM North Azimuth Dip Length (m) EC22-467 585348 7084185 210 55 117.4 EC22-468 585315 7084126 290 55 89.9 EC22-469 585481 7084121 210 55 120.4 EC22-470 585568 7084070 210 55 173.1 EC22-471 585390 7084274 210 55 214.9 EC22-472 585460 7084075 290 55 135.0 EC22-473 585460 7084075 210 55 158.5 EC22-474 585415 7084095 290 55 115.5 EC22-475 585415 7084095 210 85 118.9 EC22-476 585272 7084154 290 55 129.5 EC22-477 585226 7084176 290 55 82.3

Six holes tested the Gay Gulch Showing for the first time in 2015 which led to discovery hole EC15-10 intersecting 75.6 g/t Au over 2.8m including 420 g/t Au over 0.4m. Results from 2015 holes EC15-08 to EC15-13 reported in the October 26, 2015 news release, a copy of which can be referenced at https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/klondike-gold-reports-remaining-2015-drill-results-intersects-75-6-gt-au-over-2-8m-at-gay-gulch/.

Seven drill holes tested the Gay Gulch Showing in 2019 following up the 2015 gold discovery included EC19-244 intersecting 0.4 g/t Au over 29.8m from 5.7 meters which located the gold mineralization at surface. Results from 2019 holes EC19-242 to EC19-248 reported in the September 29, 2019 news release, a copy of which can be referenced at https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/klondike-gold-reports-gay-gulch-drill-results-and-exploration-update/

The recent results from discovery of Gay Gulch high-grade gold mineralization in quartz veining in surface outcrop assaying 4,064 g/t Au with 1,149 g/t Ag with telluride and silver sulfosalt were reported in the February 21, 2023 news release, a copy of which can be referenced at https://www.klondikegoldcorp.com/klondike-gold-discovers-high-grade-quartz-vein-outcrop-at-gay-gulch-assaying-4064-g-t-au-with-1149-g-t-ag/.

The Company is currently compiling exploration information in the Gay Gulch area as a priority. Several linear Au-Ag-Te soil anomalies potentially resulting from in-situ high gold-silver mineralization coincident with LiDAR lineaments interpreted as potential late faults occur near the Gay Gulch Showing and will be high priority targets for 2023 exploration.

2022 QUALITY ASSURANCE / QUALITY CONTROL PROTOCOLS

All 2022 drill holes referenced in this release produced NTW (5.71 cm dia.) drill core. Assay samples from drill core are cut using a diamond saw. Half the core sample interval is bagged, tagged, and sealed; the other half is returned to the core box with a corresponding tag retained for reference. Two gold reference standards, two blank samples (a coarse and a fine), and a coarse sample duplicate per 100 samples, are routinely inserted as part of Klondike Gold's quality assurance / quality control ("QA/QC") program, independent of and additional to the laboratory QA/QC program.

Sample bags are aggregated into rice bags, sealed, and submitted by Klondike Gold personnel to Bureau Veritas Mineral Laboratories ("BV Labs") preparation facility in Whitehorse, Yukon, with chemical analysis of sample pulps completed in Vancouver, British Columbia. BV Labs is an accredited ISO 9001:2008 full-service commercial laboratory.

At BV Labs each drill core sample is crushed to 80% passing 2 mm size. A 500 g subsample is pulverized to >85% passing -75 microns size (200 mesh; code PRP70-500). All samples of 500 g are sieved to 106 microns (140 mesh) for "metallic screen" assaying. The +140 mesh fraction is weighed and assayed for gold by fire assay ("FA") fusion with a gravimetric finish (code FS631). A 30 g subsample of the -140 mesh fraction is assayed for gold by fire assay ("FA") fusion with an atomic absorption ("AA") finish (code FA430). All over-limit results in excess of 10 ppm (10 g/t) for both silver and gold are re-assayed using a 30 g subsample and assayed by FA with a gravimetric finish (code FA530-Au/Ag). Total gold grade is then calculated using a weighted average of the plus and minus fraction assay results. BV Labs independently inserts QA/QC standards, blanks, and sample duplicates through each analytical process.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Klondike Gold will be participating in the following recent or upcoming events:

PDAC (Toronto, ON) - March 5 to March 8, 2023

PDAC (Toronto, ON) - PDAC-SEG Student Minerals Colloquium: 3 Research Poster Displays

All events are subject to change.

QUALIFIED PERSON

The technical and scientific information contained within this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Tallman, P.Geo., President and CEO of Klondike Gold and Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101 policy. Detailed technical information, specifications, analytical information and procedures can be found on the Company's website.

ABOUT KLONDIKE GOLD CORP.

Klondike Gold is a Vancouver based gold exploration company advancing its 100%-owned Klondike District Gold Project located at Dawson City, Yukon, one of the top mining jurisdictions in the world. The Klondike District Gold Project targets gold associated with district scale orogenic faults along the 55-kilometer length of the famous Klondike Goldfields placer district. Multi-kilometer gold mineralization has been identified at both the Lone Star Zone and Stander Zone, among other targets. The Company has identified an Initial Mineral Resource of 469,000 Indicated and 112,000 Inferred gold ounces1, a milestone first for the Klondike District. The Company is focused on exploration and development of its 727 square kilometer property accessible by scheduled airline and government-maintained roads located on the outskirts of Dawson City, Yukon, within the Tr'ondek Hwech'in First Nation traditional territory.

1 The Initial Mineral Resource Estimate for the Klondike District Property was prepared by Marc Jutras, P.Eng., M.A.Sc., Principal, Ginto Consulting Inc., an independent Qualified Person in accordance with the requirements of NI 43-101. The technical report supporting the Mineral Resource Estimate entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Klondike District Gold Project, Yukon Territory, Canada" has been filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com effective November 10, 2022. Refer to news release of December 16, 2022.

ON BEHALF OF KLONDIKE GOLD CORP.

"Peter Tallman"

Peter Tallman,

President and CEO

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

Telephone: (604) 609-6138

E-mail: info@klondikegoldcorp.com

Website: www.klondikegoldcorp.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements". When used in this document, the words "anticipated", "expect", "estimated", "forecast", "planned", and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements or information. These statements are based on current expectations of management, however, they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this news release. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these statements. Klondike Gold does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise after the date hereof, except as required by securities laws.

SOURCE: Klondike Gold Corp.





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https://www.accesswire.com/740845/Klondike-Gold-Drills-060-gt-Au-over-2785-meters-and-043-gt-Au-over-327-meters-at-Gay-Gulch-Showing




--Esther Colwill, President of Korn Ferry Asia Pacific, visited GBA office in Hong Kong

HONG KONG, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Korn Ferry, a global talent and organizational consulting firm, announced the launch of its Greater Bay Area (GBA, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao) business strategy and the establishment of its regional headquarters in Hong Kong, providing services throughout the region. Esther Colwill, president of the APAC region at Korn Ferry, visited the Hong Kong office, and highlighted the importance of the regional headquarters and the office's role in implementing the strategy. Esther interviewed with Bloomberg financial Asia channel, and attended the company's first GBA client appreciation event, where she had in-depth discussions with clients and industry influencers.

"This initiative demonstrates Korn Ferry's global commitment to the growth of its business in the Greater Bay Area and its vision for the future of the Hong Kong market," said Esther at the client event.

The Greater Bay Area's strategy to create an international innovation and technology hub with global influence built on a strong foundation with a modern manufacturing ecosystem, and high-tech of Guangdong, Macau's status as a global tourism and leisure center, and Hong Kong's role as an international financial, transportation and trade center under the "One country, Two systems" principle. The rapid growth of key industries in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao has made the region highly attractive to the high-value businesses and top talent worldwide.

"Korn Ferry has two decades of developments in the Greater Bay area. We have a well-established footprint in the region with offices in Guangzhou, Shenzhen in addition to our Hong Kong office. We are still expanding, adding more consultants to provide end to end Human Resources Solutions. We have been serving clients from all industries, Consumer, Financial Services, Hi-Tech and Industrial, whether they are start-ups or large enterprises," said Diana Chan, Korn Ferry's Managing Director of Greater Bay Area, former Head of Industrial sector at Korn Ferry China. "We are proud of the work done together with our clients. And we look forward to further supporting our clients in the region as they explore the opportunities that the broader GBA brings."

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About Korn Ferry:

Korn Ferry is a global organizational consulting firm. We work with our clients to design optimal organization structures, roles, and responsibilities. We help them hire the right people and advise them on how to reward and motivate their workforce while developing professionals as they navigate and advance their careers. Our 10,000 experts in more than 50 countries deliver on five core areas: Organization Strategy, Assessment & Succession, Talent Acquisition, Leadership & Professional Development and Total Rewards.

SOURCE Korn Ferry
Showcasing a Sophisticated Design for a Flexible, Modern Way of Working

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Peter Gaslow, President and CEO of Empire Office, Inc. (www.empireoffice.com), announces the launch of Empire's new headquarters in New York City, located at 654 Madison Avenue. On the 14th floor, the space was designed with the architecture and design teams at VMAD and inspired by industry trends and the new way of working. With an emphasis on touch-down (versus dedicated) spaces and hosting client and team meetings in an open, flexible and amenity-filled space, the newly launched HQ is also home to Empire's executive leadership team.

Empire Office, Inc. has launched its new headquarters in New York City, designed with the architecture and design teams at VMAD to reflect industry trends and the new way of working. The space features touch-down spaces, open and flexible collaboration areas, and amenities to promote socialization and collaboration. It also showcases a variety of brands, custom millwork, and signature pieces.

"During the pandemic, we found ourselves where most companies did  working remotely," stated Gaslow. "For a company specializing in furniture for office spaces, this could not be farther from what we expected to see looking into our future. Like the clients we support, we knew we belonged back in the office, so we began searching for a new space to support us now and into the future."

The search led to 654 Madison Avenue, just 30 blocks north of the company's previous location and conveniently situated near Central Park, the Queensboro bridge, and a short distance from most trains and transit.

"The building's mid-century design and boutique nature nestled within a luxe shopping district, not to mention a few blocks from the Steelcase showroom, made it the perfect choice for us," said Jocelyn Corrigan, Chief Strategy Officer.

Together with the team at VMAD, Empire got to work creating an executive hub with eight private offices, including a CEO suite; reservable workstations; a variety of conference room sizes and open collaboration spaces; custom work pods; a phone nook; a mother's retreat; and an inspirational workroom housing the Creative Studio and Marketing teams.

"Our goal was to build a more purposeful and targeted space that mirrors our brand and showcases how the workplace is evolving," added Corrigan. "We took the time to examine our needs, wants, and desires for our next HQ space in both location and amenities. Flexibility, employee well-being, and collaboration emerged as the key driving factors."

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The style of the space is Scandinavian-modern, reflected in impressive marble stone slabs, arched doorways, rich velvets, wood slats, brass accents, and a sophisticated color palette with over a dozen brands represented, including Steelcase, Coalesse, Stylex, Watson, Allermuir, Andreu World, Hem, Menu, Viccarbe, Nucraft, Spacestor, Heartwork, Minotti, Tuohy, West Elm Work, and many more.

Empire's custom millwork division, Fabricate, crafted one-of-a-kind furniture and built-in solutions that blend with the furniture selections for a unique but uniform look and feel. Fabricate's engineers developed shop drawings based on the conceptual renderings from the VMAD team and sourced multiple material samples to match the furniture in the space. Signature pieces include large-scale sliding entry doors, a custom stone reception desk, upholstered benches and banquettes, custom velvet-wrapped work pods, built-in pantry cabinetry and stone tops, and a curved wooden portal.

The result is a welcoming environment that promotes socialization and draws in employees, partners, clients, and visitors.

"Today's workplaces demand flexibility with a balance of open and private spaces, fostering collaborative and individual work needs that can change at a moment's notice, and our space is no different," said Gaslow. "Our teams are very pleased with the outcome and the opportunity to see and collaborate with colleagues again in person. It's a great time to be back in the office."

In December, Empire Office celebrated one-year post-acquisition of DeKalb Office, which expanded its reach in the Southeastern U.S. with physical locations in Atlanta, GA, and Birmingham, AL. The company's client list now boasts 41 of the top 100 Fortune500 companies in the U.S.

About Empire Office, Inc.

New York-headquartered Empire Office is the world's largest commercial furniture & interior solutions provider, with over 77 years of experience. Counting among its clients the world's premier corporations, including 41 of the top 100 Fortune500 companies, Empire provides its customers with unparalleled service and support across all 50 states. Empire Office is recognized as a Steelcase Premier Partner and supports a list of more than 500 manufacturers. We partner with best-in-class architects, designers, brokers, craftsmen, and manufacturers to deliver proven workspace solutions. With creative and cost-effective results, we address business challenges and activate brands.

For more information

Jocelyn Corrigan, CSO, telephone: 917-301-0745, email: jcorrigan@empireoffice.com, or visit us online at www.empireoffice.com

Empire Office

Cision

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SOURCE Empire Office
Roger Krone to Retire as Chairman and CEO by May 2023

RESTON, Va., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leidos (NYSE: LDOS) today announced the appointment of Thomas Bell as Chief Executive Officer, expected to be effective May 3, 2023.

Leidos logo. (PRNewsFoto/Leidos)

Bell, current President  Defense Rolls-Royce plc; Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce North America, Inc., will succeed current Chairman and CEO, Roger Krone, who has served in the role since 2014.

Krone will retire as Chairman at the time of the Leidos 2023 annual meeting of stockholders, and CEO when Bell's appointment becomes effective. The Board expects to appoint Robert S. Shapard independent, non-executive chair after the 2023 annual meeting of stockholders and will also nominate Mr. Bell to the Board.

To facilitate a seamless leadership transition, Krone will continue as a fully employed advisor through July of this year.

Bell was selected by the company's Board of Directors following a thorough and thoughtful process to select a successor.

"Tom's exceptional track record in harnessing the power of technology to drive growth and innovation, with his strong leadership skills and focus on understanding the needs of the customer, has resulted in a consistent record of success and value creation in both products and services," said Bob Shapard, lead director of the company's board. "His deep understanding of many of our customers will facilitate a smooth transition."

Prior to his current role, Bell was senior vice president of global sales & marketing for defense, space & security at The Boeing Company. Before joining Boeing in 2015, he was President of Rolls-Royce Defense Aerospace, having joined as President, Customer Business, North America in mid-2012. Previously he spent more than two decades with Boeing in a variety of leadership positions within the defense, space and security business and began his aerospace career with Lockheed Martin in human space flight.

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"Roger Krone's impact on Leidos and its customers will be felt for years to come. Under his leadership, Leidos has achieved tremendous growth, evolved its business strategy, and made a positive difference in the lives of countless people around the world. Now, Leidos is not only a market leader but, just as importantly, a place where employees feel a deep sense of mission and community," said Shapard. "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I extend our deepest gratitude to Roger for his nearly nine years of dedicated service. He has left an indelible mark on our company and our culture, and we are a better organization because of his leadership. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors, and we look forward to continuing to build on the foundation that he has laid for Leidos' future success."

"Working with the extraordinary people of Leidos has been the honor of my career," said Krone. "Their dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to our mission have been the driving force behind our success. I want to thank them for the privilege of serving as their leader for nearly nine years, and for inspiring me with their passion, their brilliance, and their unwavering commitment to excellence. It has been a privilege to be a part of this remarkable team, and I am confident that the future of Leidos is in the best possible hands with all of them."

About Leidos

Leidos is a Fortune 500 technology, engineering, and science solutions and services leader working to solve the world's toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, civil, and health markets. The company's 45,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Leidos reported annual revenues of approximately $14.4 billion for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2022. For more information, visit www.Leidos.com.

Contact: Melissa Lee Duenas

571.526.6850

duenasml@leidos.com

Cision

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SOURCE Leidos
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Arctic Fox Lithium Corp. (formerly Arctic Fox Ventures Inc.) (CSE:AFX)(FSE:7N4) (the "Company") is pleased to announce that on February 27, 2023 it entered into a Letter of Intent (the "LOI") with 1000383374 Ontario Inc. ("3374") to acquire 34 active mineral claims located in the James Bay region of Quebec (the "Acquisition"). The 34 mineral claims known as the Pontax North Lithium project consist of 1,803 hectares of land. Under the terms of the LOI the Company would be required to issue up to 6,000,000 common shares in the Company and make a cash payment of CAD$50,000 on execution of a definitive agreement with respect to the Acquisition. The Company and 3374 will work towards executing a mutually agreeable definitive agreement within fifteen days. The Acquisition is an arm's length transaction and there are no finder's fees payable in connection with it.

Arctic Fox Ventures Inc., Monday, February 27, 2023, Press release picture

Harry Chew, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Company commented: "We are excited to add the Pontax North Lithium project to our portfolio of projects in the James Bay region of Quebec. Together with our Kana Lake Lithium project, upon completion of the Acquisition, the Company would have over 3,900 hectares of land and 75 mineral claims in this region. Our planned focus after the Acquisition is to explore and develop these claim blocks in hopes of proving a lithium resource."

The Acquisition will not constitute a change of business.

The Company is also pleased to announce that it has received approval from the Registrar of Companies for the Province of British Columbia to change its name to Arctic Fox Lithium Corp. The Company feels that the new name better aligns with its focus on lithium projects in North America. At a later date, the Company will provide its existing beneficial shareholders with a letter of transmittal instructing them on how they may exchange share certificates under the previous name of the Company with share certificates under the new name. The Company will also issue a subsequent press release to advise as to when the Company will commence trading under the new name. It is not anticipated that the Company's current trading symbol will change in connection with the name change.

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About Pontax North Lithium

The 1,803-hectare Pontax North Lithium Project is located 12 km south of Galaxy Resources Ltd. (ASX:GXY) now Allkem Ltd. (ASX/TSX:ALLKEM) ("Allkem") James Bay Lithium Project and 12 km north of Stria Lithium Inc.'s (CSE:SRA) Pontax Lithium Project, located in northern Quebec, approximately 130 km east of James Bay and the Cree Nation's Eastmain community.

The claims within the northern portion of the Property contains a lithium prospective zone in a similar geological environment to Allkem's project. According to the Quebec Ministere de l'Energie et des Ressources Naturelles (MERN) this zone is characterized by the abundance of S-type pegmatitic granite intrusions, a lithology known for its Be, Li, Nb, and Ta potential. Beryl (a beryllium silicate mineral) is reported in several outcrops within this zone. The Property is known to contain a 10 km long pegmatite trend as mapped by MERN. This trend appears to be underexplored, despite its recognized lithium potential. Swarms of lithium-bearing granitic dykes are present 12 km north of the Property at Allkem's Cyr showing and at Stria Lithium's Pontax showing 12 km to the south.

Allkem is proposing to develop a lithium mine at their James Bay Lithium Project, located adjacent to the Billy Diamond Highway which provides access to key infrastructure in the region. The 2021 Feasibility Study ("FS") details a 330 ktpa spodumene operation utilizing conventional open pit mining. Allkem's spodumene expertise from the success of its Mt. Cattlin operations in Western Australia has been applied to the design and development of the James Bay Project. The FS suggests that James Bay Project will be the most competitive operation in the region with the lowest capital and operating costs. Shallow, high-grade mineralization with favourable infrastructure also supports the low-cost operation. Allkem has published a mineral resource estimate of 40.3 Mt @1.40% Li2O (FS summary here) and mineralization is still open.

Stria launched its first full drilling program at its Pontax project in 2017, completing seven holes for a total of 911.4 m. All seven holes intersected spodumene - bearing pegmatite dykes grading from 0.65% Li2O to 2.49% Li2O over a minimum of 1.0 m (Stria Lithium web site). The best intercept was 21.39m grading 1.16% Li2O in drill hole 975-17-0142.

References to adjacent properties:

12 km North: Galaxy Lithium James Bay2 Lithium:

https://gxy.com/james-bay-2/

12 km South: Stria Lithium Inc. (Pontax Lithium Project):

https://strialithium.com/projects/pontax-project/

For further information, please contact:

Harry Chew, President, CEO

Phone: (604) 689-2646

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Harry Chew"

Harry Chew

President & CEO

Arctic Fox Lithium Corp.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

* This news release contains information about adjacent properties on which Arctic Fox has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties.

The technical information contained within this News Release has been reviewed and approved by Gerald G. Carlson, Ph.D., P.Eng., Director of Arctic Fox and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Forward-Looking Information: This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address any activities and events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although Arctic Fox believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to: the acquisition contemplated in the LO; future share issuances and payment obligations; the entering into of a definitive agreement relating to the Acquisition; future approvals required in respect of the Acquisition; and matters relating to the name change of the Company. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include inability to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to the Acquisition on the terms as currently anticipated or at all; inability to secure any or all necessary approvals in order for the Acquisition to occur; inability to find potential investors willing to invest in future private placements; market prices; disruptions relating to the COVID-19 pandemic; continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. These statements are based on a number of assumptions including, among other things, assumptions: regarding general business and economic conditions; that a definitive agreement will be entered into with respect to the Acquisition; and that all necessary approvals (regulatory and otherwise) required in respect of the Acquisition and in connection with the name change of the Company. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Arctic Fox Ventures Inc.





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Compelling strategic fit, enhancing LKQ's existing business

Expected to generate approximately US$55 million run-rate cost synergies and incremental revenue upside opportunities

Strong ongoing commitment by LKQ to maintain investment grade credit ratings

Uni-Select shareholders to receive C$48.00 per share entirely in cash, providing them with immediate liquidity and certainty of value

Purchase price represents a 19.2% premium to Uni-Select's closing share price on February 24, 2023 and 20.7% to Uni-Select's trailing 20-day volume-weighted average price

CHICAGO and BOUCHERVILLE, QC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - LKQ Corporation (Nasdaq:LKQ) ("LKQ") and Uni-Select Inc. (TSX:UNS) ("Uni-Select") today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for LKQ to acquire all of Uni-Select's issued and outstanding shares for C$48.00 per share in cash, representing a total enterprise value of approximately C$2.8 billion (US$2.1 billion) (the "Transaction").

Uni-Select logo (CNW Group/Uni-Select Inc.)

Founded in Boucherville, Quebec, Canada in 1968, Uni-Select is a leader in the distribution of automotive refinish and industrial coatings and related products in North America through its FinishMaster segment, in the automotive aftermarket parts business in Canada through its Canadian Automotive Group segment and in the U.K. through its GSF Car Parts segment. With over 5,200 employees, 15 distribution centers and 400+ branches, Uni-Select supports over 70,000 customers annually across the United States, Canada, and the U.K.

"This acquisition further enhances LKQ's global automotive vehicle parts distribution business," stated Dominick Zarcone, President and Chief Executive Officer of LKQ Corporation. "Uni-Select's North American automotive refinish paint and mechanical parts distribution operations complement LKQ's existing footprint and will allow us to distribute a broader array of products to our customers. We look forward to welcoming Uni-Select's employees to the LKQ team. Importantly, we believe that our combined efforts will create tremendous long-term value for our customers, shareholders, employees, and other stakeholders as we continue to focus on our operational excellence initiatives." Mr. Zarcone added: "We are also pleased that the acquisition will allow LKQ to build a significant presence in Quebec, including Uni-Select's Boucherville, Quebec head office, expanding upon LKQ's already existing business operations in that province."

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Brian McManus, Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Uni-Select, commented "The transaction offers compelling value and liquidity to our shareholders and is the culmination of the efforts by our dedicated team to improve our operations and drive efficiencies with a focus on excellent customer service. We see great opportunities to benefit our customers, employees, suppliers and brands by combining our complementary strengths within the larger, multi-disciplinary and growing LKQ team."

Transaction Highlights

Compelling strategic fit . The addition of Uni-Select will enhance LKQ's business and drive profitable growth

Complements existing North American paint distribution operations . Uni-Select's FinishMaster business improves LKQ's scale and product mix to compete in this attractive and growing segment with minimal integration risk

Scaled entry into mechanical parts . Uni-Select's Canadian Automotive Group provides a scaled position in the attractive Canadian mechanical parts space, with opportunity for future consolidation and growth

Significant cost synergies. The Transaction is expected to generate approximately US$55 million of annual run-rate cost synergies by the third year following closing, plus incremental revenue and margin opportunities across the Uni-Select and LKQ businesses

Financial Highlights

The Transaction price of C$48.00 per share represents a premium of 19.2% to Uni-Select's closing share price on February 24, 2023 and 20.7% to Uni-Select's trailing 20-day volume-weighted average price.

LKQ expects the Transaction to be accretive to its Adjusted EPS in the first year following closing.

LKQ intends to fund the Transaction through a combination of cash on hand and new debt. At closing, LKQ expects to have total leverage of approximately 2.4x.

Consistent with its ongoing strong commitment to maintaining investment grade ratings, LKQ will prioritize de-leveraging and intends to remain highly disciplined with regard to additional M&A activity.

LKQ has secured bridge financing commitments from Bank of America and Wells Fargo. The Transaction is not subject to a financing condition.

Uni-Select Board Recommendation

After consultation with its outside financial and legal advisors and after receipt of the unanimous recommendation of a Special Committee of the Board of Directors, the Uni-Select Board of Directors has unanimously approved the Transaction and unanimously recommends that Uni-Select shareholders vote in favor of the Transaction.

Each of TD Securities Inc. ("TD Securities"), as exclusive financial advisor to Uni-Select, and RBC Dominion Securities Inc. ("RBC Capital Markets"), as financial advisor to the Special Committee, has provided a fairness opinion to the Uni-Select Board of Directors and the Special Committee, respectively, for which RBC Capital Markets will receive a fixed fee that is not dependent on completion of the Transaction, to the effect that, as of the date thereof, and based upon and subject to the assumptions, limitations and qualifications stated in such opinions, the consideration to be received by Uni-Select shareholders under the Transaction is fair, from a financial point of view, to such shareholders.

Transaction Details, Timing to Close and Approvals

The Transaction will be implemented by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Quebec) and is expected to close in the second half of 2023, subject to customary conditions, including the receipt of anti-trust clearances in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K., approval under the Investment Canada Act, Uni-Select shareholder approval, and court approval.

In connection with the Transaction, LKQ will undertake a process to divest GSF Car Parts U.K., Uni-Select's U.K. based mechanical parts distribution business.

Required Uni-Select shareholder approval for the Transaction will consist of (i) two-thirds of the votes cast on the Transaction at a special meeting of Uni-Select shareholders, and (ii) a majority of the votes cast on the Transaction at such meeting, excluding any shares held by funds managed by each of Birch Hill Equity Partners and EdgePoint Investment Group. LKQ has entered into voting and support agreements with each of the directors and executive officers of Uni-Select who own more than 1,000 shares, as well as Birch Hill Equity Partners and EdgePoint Investment Group, who collectively represent approximately 20% of Uni-Select's outstanding shares, pursuant to which such parties have agreed to vote all shares held by them in favor of the Transaction, subject to customary exceptions.

A copy of the Arrangement Agreement will be publicly filed by LKQ at www.sec.gov and Uni-Select under its profile at www.sedar.com. Additional information regarding the Transaction, the terms of the Arrangement Agreement, the background to the Transaction, the rationale for the recommendations made by the Special Committee and the Board of Directors of Uni-Select and how Uni-Select shareholders can participate in and vote at the Uni-Select special meeting will be contained in a management proxy circular that Uni-Select will prepare, file and mail to Uni-Select shareholders in advance of the Uni-Select special meeting, which will also be made available on SEDAR under Uni-Select's profile at www.sedar.com. Shareholders are urged to read these and other relevant materials when they become available.

Advisors

BofA Securities and Wells Fargo Securities are acting as financial advisors, and Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP, and Slaughter and May are acting as legal counsel, to LKQ Corporation. TD Securities is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Uni-Select and RBC Capital Markets is acting as financial advisor to the Special Committee of Uni-Select. Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP, Latham & Watkins, and Linklaters are acting as legal counsel to Uni-Select, and Stikeman Elliott LLP is acting as legal counsel to the Special Committee of Uni-Select.

Conference Call Details

LKQ will host a conference call and webcast on February 27, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (7:00 a.m. Central Time) with members of senior management to discuss the Uni-Select transaction. To access the investor conference call, please dial (888) 330-3494. International access to the call may be obtained by dialing (646) 960-0860. The investor conference call will require you to enter conference ID: 9119400#.

Webcast and Presentation Details

The audio webcast and accompanying slide presentation can be accessed at the Investor Relations section on LKQ's website (www.lkqcorp.com).

A replay of the conference call will be available by telephone at (800) 770-2030 or (647) 362-9199 for international calls. The telephone replay will require you to enter conference ID: 9119400#. An online replay of the audio webcast will be available on the Company's website. Both formats of replay will be available through March 14, 2023. Please allow approximately two hours after the live presentation before attempting to access the replay.

About LKQ Corporation

LKQ Corporation (www.lkqcorp.com) is a leading provider of alternative and specialty parts to repair and accessorize automobiles and other vehicles. LKQ has operations in North America, Europe and Taiwan. LKQ offers its customers a broad range of OEM recycled and aftermarket parts, replacement systems, components, equipment, and services to repair and accessorize automobiles, trucks, and recreational and performance vehicles.

About Uni-Select

With over 5,200 employees in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K., Uni-Select is a leader in the distribution of automotive refinish and industrial coatings and related products in North America, as well as a leader in the automotive aftermarket parts business in Canada and in the U.K. Uni-Select is headquartered in Boucherville, Quebec, Canada, and its shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol UNS.

In Canada, Uni-Select supports over 16,000 automotive repair and collision repair shops and more than 4,000 shops through its automotive repair/installer shop banners and automotive refinish banners. Its network includes over 1,000 independent customer locations and more than 95 company-operated stores, many of which operate under the Uni-Select BUMPER TO BUMPER, AUTO PARTS PLUS and FINISHMASTER store banner programs.

In the United States, Uni-Select, through its wholly-owned subsidiary FinishMaster, Inc., operates over 145 automotive refinish company-operated stores under the FINISHMASTER banner, which supports over 30,000 customers annually.

In the U.K., Uni-Select, through GSF Car Parts, is a major distributor of automotive parts supporting over 20,000 customer accounts with over 175 company-operated stores. www.uniselect.com.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This release contains and LKQ management's presentation on the related conference call will refer to non-GAAP financial measures within the meaning of Regulation G promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Included with this release are reconciliations of each non-GAAP financial measure with the most directly comparable financial measure calculated in accordance with GAAP.

LKQ Forward Looking Statements

Statements and information included in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of such Act.

Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our expectations, intentions, beliefs and strategies regarding the future, including statements regarding trends, cyclicality and changes in the markets we sell into; strategic direction; changes to procurement processes; the cost of compliance with environmental and other laws; expected tax rates; planned capital expenditures; liquidity positions; ability to generate cash from continuing operations; the potential impact of adopting new accounting pronouncements; expected financial results, including revenue and profitability; obligations under our retirement plans; savings or additional costs from business integrations and cost containment programs; and the adequacy of accruals. These forward looking statements generally include expectations, beliefs, hopes, intentions or strategies regarding our future, including with respect to the proposed transaction described and statements or assumptions regarding the expected timetable for completing the transaction, financial and operating results, benefits and synergies of the transaction, and other statements that are based on management's current beliefs and expectations of the company and the combined businesses. These statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors including those identified below. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to us at the time the statements are made, and we assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

You should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements. Actual events or results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. The potential risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from the events or results predicted or implied by our forward-looking statements include, among others, risks relating to the receipt of regulatory and shareholder approvals for the transaction and the successful fulfillment or waiver of all other closing conditions without unexpected delays or conditions; the failure to realize, or delays in realizing, growth projections, synergies, cost-savings and other benefits from the transaction; the failure to obtain the financing contemplated to be obtained in connection with the proposed transaction on the expected terms or timing; negative effects of the announcement or completion of the transaction on the businesses, financial performance or trading prices of the parties; competitive responses to the transaction; changes in our cash position or cash requirements for other purposes; fluctuations in the price of our common stock; general market conditions; stockholder response to the previously announced repurchase program; and other factors discussed in our filings with the SEC, including those disclosed under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and any of our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. These reports are available on our investor relations website at lkqcorp.com and on the SEC website at sec.gov.

Caution Regarding Uni-Select Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements made in this press release are forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. All such forward-looking information is made and disclosed in reliance upon the "safe harbour" provisions of applicable Canadian securities laws.

Forward-looking information includes all information and statements regarding Uni-Select's intentions, plans, expectations, beliefs, objectives, future performance, and strategy, as well as any other information or statements that relate to future events or circumstances and which do not directly and exclusively relate to historical facts. Forward-looking statements often, but not always, use words such as "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "anticipate", "foresee", "plan", "predict", "project", "aim", "seek", "strive", "potential", "continue", "target", "may", "might", "could", "should", and similar expressions and variations thereof. In addition, statements with respect to management expectations in terms of sales, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EPS or other financial results for 2023 constitute forward-looking information and financial outlook within the meaning of Canadian securities laws.

Forward-looking information is based on Uni-Select's perception of historic trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other assumptions, both general and specific, that Uni-Select believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Such information is, by its very nature, subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of Uni-Select, and which give rise to the possibility that actual results could differ materially from Uni-Select's expectations expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking information. Uni-Select cannot guarantee that any forward-looking information will materialize, and we caution readers against relying on any forward-looking information.

These risks and uncertainties include, but are not restricted to: risks associated with reduced demand for our products, disruptions of our supplier relationships or of our suppliers' operations or supplier consolidation, increases in shipping costs, disruption of our customer relationships, competition in the industries in which we do business, the COVID-19 pandemic or other pandemics, reliance on information technology systems, security breaches, information security malfunctions or integration issues, the demand for e-commerce and failure to provide adequate e-commerce solutions, retention of employees, labor costs and availability, union activities and labor and employment laws, failure to realize benefits of acquisitions and other strategic transactions, product liability claims, product recalls, credit risk, termination or reduction of our vendor financing program, loss of right to operate at key locations, failure to implement business initiatives, failure to maintain effective internal controls, macro-economic conditions such as unemployment, inflation, changes in tax policies and uncertain credit markets, operations in foreign jurisdictions, foreign exchange, inability to service our debt or fulfill financial covenants, litigation, changes in legislation or government regulation or policies, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, compliance with privacy laws, global climate change, changes in accounting standards, share price fluctuations, environmental, social and governance activities and reputation and activist investors as well as other risks identified or incorporated by reference in our MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2022 and in other documents that we make public, including our filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators (on SEDAR at www.sedar.com).

Unless otherwise stated, the forward-looking information contained in this press release is made as of the date hereof and Uni-Select disclaims any intention or obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. While we believe that our assumptions on which the forward-looking information is based were reasonable as at the date of this press release, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking information.

Furthermore, readers are reminded that forward-looking information is presented for the sole purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding Uni-Select's expected financial results, as well as our objectives, strategic priorities and business outlook and our anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes and should not be relied upon as necessarily being indicative of future financial results.

Further information on the risks that could cause our actual results to differ significantly from our current expectations may be found in the section titled "Risk Management" of our MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in this cautionary statement.

We also caution readers that the above-mentioned risks and the risks disclosed in our MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2022, and other documents and filings are not the only ones that could affect us. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem to be immaterial could also have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, cash flows and financial condition.

LKQ Corporation logo (CNW Group/Uni-Select Inc.)

SOURCE Uni-Select Inc.

Cision

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Mortgage holders in Australia are seeking more guidance in the current rising interest rate environment, and Liberty is a lender with the local support to meet their needs.

Liberty home loans

Liberty home loans

MELBOURNE, Australia, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A recent RFI Global and Australian Mortgage Council survey of more than 2,000 borrowers discovered that being able to promptly speak with a real person to discuss lending options has become increasingly important. Of those surveyed, 35% said the ability to reach a real person quickly when they need to talk to someone was important in a mortgage - up 7% on the previous year. For fast-growing lender Liberty, flexibility and tailored, personal support have always been critical elements of their service offering - especially in the home loan market.

According to Head of Consumer Communications Kate Jenkinson, tailored solutions able to evolve over time can help more borrowers achieve their homeownership goals.

"In today's climate, an increasing number of homeowners are looking at their home loans and seeking more information about how they can best navigate the potential challenges ahead," Ms Jenkinson said. "Liberty has always prided itself on providing customer service specialists and advisers who are Australia-based and able to provide help in real-time."

It appears the need for this flexibility to translate into the digital space is also growing.

"We recognise that for younger borrowers who are seeking their first mortgage, easy access to digital tools and trusted lending specialists are key considerations," she said.

With a proud history of supporting all kinds of customers to access flexible loan options, Liberty has the team and expertise to help borrowers find the home loan that's right for their situation.

The leading non-bank encourages homebuyers at all stages of their property journey to explore the options on offer to help them fast-track their plans.

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"Opting for a flexible mortgage solution could help buyers secure their dream home sooner than they thought possible - so it pays to seek expert advice early on," Ms Jenkinson said.

Approved applicants only. Lending criteria apply. Fees and charges are payable. Liberty Financial Pty Ltd ACN 077 248 983 and Secure Funding Pty Ltd ABN 25 081 982 872 Australian Credit Licence 388133, together trading as Liberty Financial.

Contact Information:

Kate Jenkinson

Head of Communications

mediaenquiries@liberty.com.au

+61 3 8635 8888



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In 1905, French seminarian Bruno Reidel is found guilty of murdering a child. At the request of the doctors observing him, he writes his memoirs to explain his action.

In 1905, French seminarian Bruno Reidel is found guilty of murdering a child. At the request of the doctors observing him, he writes his memoirs to explain his action.
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - MANTARO PRECIOUS METALS CORP. (TSXV: MNTR); (OTCQB: MSLVF); (FSE: 9TZ) (the "Company") announces it has granted options to purchase 3,100,000 common shares to its directors, officers and consultants. Each option will be exercisable at a price of $0.05 per share for a period of five years from the date of grant.

Mantaro Precious Metals Logo (CNW Group/Mantaro Precious Metals Corp.)

About Mantaro Precious Metals Corp.

Mantaro Precious Metals Corp. is a British Columbia company that holds a diversified portfolio of gold and silver focused mineral properties in Bolivia and Peru. The Company holds an option to acquire up to an 80% interest in the advanced Golden Hill orogenic gold property ("Golden Hill"), located in the underexplored Precambrian Shield, Bolivia.

In Peru, the Company has a 100% interest in the high-grade Santas Gloria silver property as well as a 100% interest in each of the La Purisima, Cerro Luque and Huaranay properties.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

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The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cision

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SOURCE Mantaro Precious Metals Corp.

Cision

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McEwen Mining

TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- McEwen Copper Inc., a subsidiary of McEwen Mining Inc. (NYSE: MUX) (TSX: MUX), is pleased to announce a binding agreement for an additional US$30 million investment by Nuton LLC, a Rio Tinto Venture, and existing McEwen Copper shareholder.



Nuton has agreed to invest US$30 million to acquire shares of McEwen Copper in a two-part transaction expected to close no later than March 10th, 2023 (the Nuton Transaction) consisting of: 1. Private placement of 350,000 McEwen Copper common shares, and 2. Purchase of 1,250,000 common shares owned by McEwen Mining in a secondary sale. Proceeds of the subscription and purchase are expected to be approximately US$6.5 million to McEwen Copper and US$23.5 million McEwen Mining, respectively. The proceeds of the private placement will be used to advance development of the Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina, and for general corporate purposes.



After closing, Nuton will own 14.2% of McEwen Copper on a fully diluted basis, and McEwen Mining will own 51.9%. The transaction values McEwen Copper at approximately US$550 million.



McEwen Copper Chief Executive Rob McEwen said: We are extremely pleased to have Nutons strong continued participation in McEwen Copper. Together we are exploring new technologies that save energy, water, time and capital in the pursuit of delivering green copper to Argentina and the world, a product that will contribute to the electrification of transportation and the protection of our atmosphere.



In connection with the Transaction, McEwen Copper and certain of its affiliates entered into an Amended Collaboration Agreement (the "New Nuton Collaboration Agreement) and a Copper Cathodes and Concentrates Purchase Rights Agreement (the CCCPRA), which are described below.

The New Nuton Collaboration Agreement provides for the following additional rights beyond those in the original Nuton Collaboration Agreement (see news release dated Aug 31, 2022):

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Nuton will have the opportunity to provide local currency funding, in certain circumstances, for advancement of the Los Azules project;

Comprehensive scientific, technical and strategic planning information rights;

Extension of exclusivity over novel, trade secret or patented copper heap leach technologies until August 10, 2024;

Pre-emptive rights to maintain their ownership percentage in any follow-on equity offering; and

Agreement of McEwen Mining and Rob McEwen to not trigger Drag Along Rights in the event of a bid for McEwen Copper prior to the planned initial public offering (IPO).



The CCCPRA provides an option to Nuton that, if exercised to its maximum extent, would allow them to purchase a percentage of the copper products (cathodes, concentrates, etc.) produced from the Los Azules project equal to their equity ownership percentage in McEwen Copper at the time of exercise.

About Nuton

Nuton is an innovative new venture that aims to help grow Rio Tintos copper business. At the core of Nuton is a portfolio of proprietary copper leach-related technologies and capability  a product of almost 30 years of research and development. Nuton Technologies offer the potential to economically unlock copper sulphide resources, copper bearing waste and tailings, and achieve higher copper recoveries on oxide and transitional material, allowing for a significantly increased copper production. One of the key differentiators of Nuton is the potential to deliver leading environmental performance, including more efficient water usage, lower carbon emissions, and the ability to reclaim mine sites by reprocessing mine waste.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is the second largest mining and metals company in the world, operating in 35 countries, and producing the raw materials essential to human progress. It aims to help pioneer a more sustainable future, from partnering in the development of technology that can make the aluminum smelting process entirely free of direct greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, to providing the world with the materials it needs  such as copper  to build a new low-carbon economy and products like electric vehicles, charging infrastructure and smartphones.

About McEwen Copper

McEwen Copper Inc. holds 100% interest in the Los Azules copper project in San Juan, Argentina and the Elder Creek project in Nevada, USA (subject to an earn-in by Rio Tinto).



Los Azules was ranked in the top 10 largest undeveloped copper deposits in the world by Mining Intelligence (2022). Its current copper resources are estimated at 10.2 billion pounds at a grade of 0.48% Cu (Indicated category) and an additional 19.3 billion pounds at a grade of 0.33% Cu (Inferred category).

After closing the Nuton Transaction, McEwen Copper will have 28,885,000 common shares outstanding on a fully diluted basis, and its shareholders are: McEwen Mining Inc. 51.9%, Stellantis 14.2%, Nuton 14.2%, Rob McEwen 13.8%, Victor Smorgon Group 3.5%, and other shareholders 2.4%.

About McEwen Mining

McEwen Mining is a gold and silver producer with operations in Nevada, Canada, Mexico and Argentina. In addition, it owns approximately 52% of McEwen Copper which owns the large, advanced stage Los Azules copper project in Argentina. The Companys goal is to improve the productivity and life of its assets with the objective of increasing its share price and providing a yield. Its Chairman and Chief Owner has personally provided the company with $220 million and takes an annual salary of $1.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

CAUTION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and information, including "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements and information expressed, as at the date of this news release, McEwen Mining Inc.'s (the "Company") estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results. Forward-looking statements and information are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies, and there can be no assurance that such statements and information will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements and information. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, political, economic, social and security risks associated with foreign operations, the ability of the corporation to receive or receive in a timely manner permits or other approvals required in connection with operations, risks associated with the construction of mining operations and commencement of production and the projected costs thereof, risks related to litigation, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves, and other risks. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information included herein, which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See McEwen Mining's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021 and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the caption "Risk Factors", for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information regarding the Company. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

The NYSE and TSX have not reviewed and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release, which has been prepared by management of McEwen Mining Inc.

WEB SITE SOCIAL MEDIA www.mcewenmining.com McEwen Mining Facebook: facebook.com/mcewenmining CONTACT INFORMATION LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mcewen-mining-inc- Twitter: twitter.com/mcewenmining 150 King Street West Instagram: instagram.com/mcewenmining Suite 2800, PO Box 24 Toronto, ON, Canada McEwen Copper M5H 1J9 Facebook: facebook.com/mcewencopper LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mcewencopper Relationship with Investors: Twitter: twitter.com/mcewencopper (866)-441-0690 Toll free Instagram: instagram.com/mcewencopper (647)-258-0395 Rob McEwen Mihaela Iancu ext. 320 Facebook: facebook.com/mcewenrob info@mcewenmining.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robert-mcewen-646ab24 Twitter: twitter.com/robmcewenmux




Transparency Market Research

Medical simulators are increasingly being adopted for medical training purposes due to their extraordinary resemblance to human characteristics

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc.  The global Medical Simulation Market size is estimated to be US$ 2.2 Bn in 2023. The global industry is likely to be valued at US$ 14.2 Bn by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 19.1% between 2023 and 2033.

Medical simulation is the virtual reconstruction of in-person events or activities that mimic the features and properties of a real-world concept or procedure. It is a kind of simulation that is utilized in the instruction and training of people in a range of medical specialties. Simulated events can happen in a controlled setting, such as in a classroom, in the actual world, or in a specially designed setting.



Students demonstrate greater comprehension of various topics when taught in combination with simulation or pre-education. In line with this, army units and other organizations have included simulations in order to improve their training procedures.

North America is anticipated to be one of the rapidly growing regions and is likely to continue to dominate the global medical simulation market owing to several mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations by prominent local companies.

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Key Findings of Market Report

Based on technology, the procedure rehearsal technology segment is projected to lead the global industry, with a CAGR of 15.4% between 2023 and 2033. The segment accounted for the largest market share in 2020. The adoption of procedure rehearsal technology is expected to grow due to the rise in the number of medical errors and patient safety demands. Industry players are implementing technological advancements. This is expected to drive business opportunities in the global medical simulation market.



Based on product & service type, the healthcare anatomical model segment is anticipated to lead the industry with a CAGR of 21.3% during the forecast period. The healthcare anatomical model segment accounted for more than 30% market share in 2020. Medical simulators have been demonstrated to be effective for undertaking trials, permutations, and combinations before finalizing designs, processes, or systems, notably in the medical device business. These aspects are anticipated to support the segment's growth in the next few years.



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Global Medical Simulation Market: Growth Drivers

Medical simulators are currently utilized in medical education across the globe due to their remarkable resemblance to human traits. The requirement to maintain patient safety and accessibility are particularly important in the healthcare sector. As a result, simulation is used more often in general education classes and professional training programs. This is anticipated to drive market development.



Virtual simulation technologies have been applied during the COVID-19 outbreak to enhance and boost healthcare procedures. There has been an increasing adoption of screen-based simulation for virtual reality, remote learning, mixed reality, extended reality, and augmented reality. This, in turn, is likely to drive industry growth between 2023 and 2033.



Better healthcare infrastructure has been developed over time to address challenges including unmet healthcare demands and medical blunders, which are becoming more prevalent. As a result, the use of medical simulation has increased to avert medical errors and also to cater to unmet healthcare needs.



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Global Medical Simulation Market: Regional Outlook

The market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 20.4% over the projected period. The industry in the region is anticipated to grow at the fastest rate due to the rise in demand for healthcare simulation and related services. Developing economies of India and China are anticipated to account for a large share of the market in Asia Pacific, led by the increase in emphasis on medical studies and research in these countries. Additionally, undertaking business in Asian nations is fairly easy due to the abundant availability of trained workers and low manufacturing costs. This is a crucial factor that is anticipated to accelerate the expansion of the Asia Pacific market.



The U.S. market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 19.7% from 2023 to 2033. The U.S. is estimated to have significant market demand for medical simulation due to the presence of established distribution networks, better accessibility to technology, and an increase in the inclination of doctors toward classroom training. High demand for telemedicine and online training due to the recent pandemic is also projected to propel the U.S. market in the near future.



Global Medical Simulation Market: Key Players

Some of the key players in the global medical simulation market are:

Surgical Science Sweden AB

Kyoto Kagaku Co. Ltd

Mentice AB

Limbs & Things Ltd

Gaumard Scientific Company

Laerdal Medical

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Global Medical Simulation Market: Segmentation

Product & Services Type

Healthcare Anatomical Models

Web-Based Simulators

Healthcare Simulation Software

Simulation Training Services

Technology

Virtual Patient Simulation

3D Printing

Procedure Rehearsal Technology



End-use

Academic Institutes

Hospitals

Military Organizations

Research

Regions

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Latin America



About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered in Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision-makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

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Microbix Biosystems Inc.

Using Shareholder-Approved Plan to Incentivize and Retain

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Microbix Biosystems Inc. (TSX: MBX, OTCQX: MBXBF, Microbix), a life sciences innovator, manufacturer and exporter, announces the issuance of stock options under its shareholder-approved 2018 stock option plan (the Stock Option Plan), as part of its compensation programs to incentivize and retain its board of directors, executives, and managers.



Details of the Option Issuance

In consultation with management, Microbixs Board of Directors has approved the issuance of 2,815,000 options in accordance with the terms of the Stock Option Plan. The approved options are exercisable at a price of $0.37 per share, as determined by the closing price of the TSX on 23 February, 2023. Each option will vest and be exercisable after three (3) years and have a total life of five (5) years. The stock option grants form part of the total remuneration package for the recipients and are subject to TSX approval.

Management Discussion

Microbix management believes that stock options are an important tool to incentivize and retain senior personnel, particularly for smaller, publicly-listed companies. In February 2019, Microbix announced its intention to broadly use its stock option plan once per year  following the issuance of its Q1 results.

The options now issued are being allocated across 33 individuals that comprise the more senior tiers of Microbixs approximately 110 employees, inclusive of its independent directors. The quarterly expense incurred as a result of this option award is estimated to be $50,000, and will represent approximately 2% of total company compensation costs. The potentially dilutive impact of this option issuance may be up to 2% of the issued and outstanding shares of Microbix, offset in part by normal-course issuer bid (NCIB) share repurchases that have totaled approximately 1,100,000 shares since the initiation of the NCIB in October, 2022.

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About the Microbix Stock Option Plan

Details of the Stock Option Plan are available on Microbixs website (www.microbix.com), via SEDAR (www.sedar.com), and are provided as an appendix to the current Management Information Circular. The Stock Option Plan is a rolling plan that permits issuance of options representing up to 10% of Microbixs issued and outstanding common shares. Prior to the current issuance, a total of 9,374,000 options had been issued and are outstanding, with an average exercise price of $0.44 and average remaining life of 2.7 years. Following the current issuance, a total of 12,189,000 options will be outstanding, comprising approximately 90% of the current plan availability. The plan is administered under the supervision of the Board of Microbix or the human resources, compensation and governance committee of the Board.

About Microbix Biosystems

Microbix creates proprietary biological products for human health, with over 100 skilled employees and annualized sales targeting C$ 2.0 million per month. It makes a wide range of critical ingredients and devices for the global diagnostics industry, notably antigens for immunoassays and its laboratory quality assessment products (QAPs) that support clinical lab proficiency testing, enable assay development and validation, or help ensure the quality of clinical diagnostic workflows. Its antigens drive the antibody tests of approximately 100 diagnostics makers, while QAPs are sold to clinical laboratory accreditation organizations, diagnostics companies, and clinical laboratories. Microbix QAPs are now available in over 30 countries, distributed by 1WA (Oneworld Accuracy Inc.), Alpha-Tec Systems, Inc., Diagnostic International Distribution SpA., Labquality Oy, The Medical Supply Company of Ireland, Neo-Science Equipment LLC, R-Biopharm AG, SDT Molecular Pte Ltd, Seegene Canada Inc., and Thomas Scientific LLC. Microbix is ISO 9001 and 13485 accredited, U.S. FDA registered, Australian TGA registered, Health Canada establishment licensed, and provides CE marked products.

Microbix also applies its biological expertise and infrastructure to develop other proprietary products and technologies, most notably viral transport medium (DxTM) to stabilize patient samples for lab-based molecular diagnostic testing and Kinlytic urokinase, a biologic thrombolytic drug used to treat blood clots. Microbix is traded on the TSX and OTCQX, and headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release includes forward-looking information, as such term is defined in applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, discussion of the Stock Option Plan, the NCIB or opinions relating to usage of the plan, financial results or the outlook for the business, risks associated with its financial results and stability, its development projects, sales to foreign jurisdictions, engineering and construction, production (including control over costs, quality, quantity and timeliness of delivery), foreign currency and exchange rates, maintaining adequate working capital and raising further capital on acceptable terms or at all, and other similar statements concerning anticipated future events, conditions or results that are not historical facts. These statements reflect managements current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward looking information is inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Companys control. Accordingly, actual future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. All statements are made as of the date of this news release and represent the Companys judgement as of the date of this new release, and the Company is under no obligation to update or alter any forward-looking information.

Please visit www.microbix.com or www.sedar.com for recent Microbix filings.

For further information, please contact Microbix at:



Cameron Groome, Jim Currie, Deborah Honig, CEO CFO Investor Relations (905) 361-8910 (905) 361-8910 Adelaide Capital Markets (647) 203-8793 ir@microbix.com





Copyright  2023 Microbix Biosystems Inc.

Microbix, DxTM, Kinlytic, and QAPs are trademarks of Microbix Biosystems Inc.








Vancouver, British Colombia and Salt Lake City, Utah--(Newsfile Corp. - February 27, 2023) - US Critical Metals Corp. (TSXV: USCM) (OTCQB: USCMF) (FSE: 0IU0) ("USCM") and US Critical Materials Corp. ("Materials Corp.") (collectively, the "Partners") are pleased to report the results for the underground channel sampling completed at the Sheep Creek Rare Earth Project in southwestern Montana ("Sheep Creek" or the "Project"). The sampling was completed in Adit #1 and Adit #3 which were developed in the late 1950's for niobium mineralization by the Continental Columbium Company. Until now, the workings have not been accessed and evaluated for rare earth mineralization. A total of 23 samples were collected and described by the Partners, and were analyzed by Activation Laboratories (Actlabs), located in Ancaster, Canada.

Highlights from Underground Sampling Program

A total of 23 carbonatite samples confirmed rare earth mineralization with grades up to 102,293ppm (10.23%) Total Rare Earth Elements ("TREE") (Sample #720), including 13,940ppm (1.39%) combined neodymium and praseodymium, which are the most sought after of the Light Rare Earth Elements ("LREE") group.

Underground results reveal an average of 50,400 (5.04%) TREE, including an average combined 6,721ppm (0.67%) neodymium and praseodymium. These grades are consistent with the surface sample results (reference press release dated February 14, 2023) and therefore suggest uniformity in the TREE content of the carbonatite bodies.

The carbonatites within the Sheep Creek mine workings are strongly enriched in LREE with an average value of 5.03% compared to 121.6ppm for Heavy Rare Earth Elements ("HREE").

Preliminary geologic mapping has tentatively connected several of the carbonatite bodies suggesting continuity over several hundred meters. The exposures sampled in the adits are likely contiguous with surface exposures, a vertical distance of about 50 meters. Expanding both dimensions will be the focus of a drilling program.

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The samples collected in 2022 from Adit #1 and Adit #3 are summarized in Table 1 and shown in Figures 2 and 3.

Table 1. Statistical summary of underground channel samples (23) collected during the 2022 campaign, Sheep Creek Project, Ravalli County, Montana. Data is organized as LREE, HRE and TREE.

Samples (N=23) La

(ppm) Ce

(ppm) Pr

(ppm) Nd

(ppm) Sm

(ppm) Eu

(ppm) Gd

(ppm) Total

LREE

Max 39,300.0 48,100.0 3,950.0 10,500.0 645.0 108.0 207.0 102,810.0

Min 3,650.0 4,800.0 404.0 1,090.0 81.9 15.9 34.3 10,076.1

Avg 18,943.0 23,906.1 1,912.6 5,036.1 317.6 54.8 108.8 50,278.9

% of LREE 37.93 47.07 3.84 10.19 0.64 0.11 0.21 100.00





















Samples (N=23) Tb

(ppm) Dy

(ppm) Ho

(ppm) Er

(ppm) Tm

(ppm) Yb

(ppm) Lu

(ppm) Y

(ppm) Total

HREE Max 14.8 35.8 6.2 16.2 2.1 12.3 1.7 173.0 262.1 Min 3.2 11.6 1.6 3.3 0.4 2.6 0.4 45.0 68.1 Avg 8.5 23.2 3.0 6.0 0.7 4.2 0.6 75.4 121.6 % of HREE 5.87 15.62 2.38 5.65 0.71 4.22 0.61 64.93 100.00



















Samples (N=23) Total

REE

Notes: TREE = Total Rare Earth Elements

Max 102,293.1



Total LREE = Total Light Rare Earth Elements

Min 10,144.8



Total HREE = Total Heavy Rare Earth Elements

Avg 50,400.5





















Figure 1. Pie diagrams showing the relative distribution of LREE (left) and HREE (right) from Adit #1 and Adit #3, Sheep Creek Project.



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Figure 1 displays the dominance of LREE in the Sheep Creek carbonatites with a combined neodymium and praseodymium content of 13,940ppm (1.39%). These ranges and relative amounts are consistent with the surface samples (Figure 2; summarized in press release dated February 14, 2023).





Figure 2. Location of Adits #1 and #3 relative to Total LREE values for samples collected from surface carbonatites exposures in 2021 and 2022, Sheep Creek Project, Ravalli County, Montana.



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The three adits, shown in Figure 2, were developed in the late 1950's for niobium mineralization by the Continental Columbium Company and had not been assessed for rare earth mineralization. Access was gained to Adit #1 and Adit #3 which allowed for the Partners to examine, map and sample the carbonatite dikes. Both adits were mapped by Continental Columbium (F.A. Crowley, 1956 and 1957) and this work is reproduced in Figures 4 and 5. The rare earth mineralization hosted in the carbonatite dikes is composed of calcite and barite with subordinate ancylite, allanite, monazite, columbite and trace molybdenite in sheared and widely fenitized augen gneiss or amphibolite. Examples of the mineralization are presented in Figures 3 and 4. The results from the 2022 mapping campaign are pending but several of the surface samples, hosted by carbonatite dikes, are likely contiguous with the documented subsurface exposures.





Figure 3. Photo of banded carbonatite about 4 feet wide composed of calcite (white), calcite + barite (yellow) + ancylite (pink); dark minerals are biotite and/or actinolite and possibly magnetite or allanite, Adit #3, right lateral.



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Figure 4. Photo of banded carbonatite composed of calcite (white), calcite + barite (yellow) + ancylite (pink) and monazite (honey colored); dark minerals are biotite and/or actinolite and possibly magnetite or allanite, Adit #3, right lateral.



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Adit #1 exposes a roughly N75oE trending carbonatite dike for about 95 metres which dips variably to the north and south. The carbonatite ranges in width from 1.25 to 3.0 feet. Fourteen channel samples were collected from Adit #1 and are shown in Figure 5. TREE grades up to 10.2% (Sample #709). Surface exposures of the dike are present in the adit's collar as well as in the collar of Adit #2 (about 30 meters vertically above) but are very limited by the steep, talus mantled terrain.





Figure 5. Geologic map of Adit #1 showing sample locations and TREE values. Geology from Crowley, 1957.



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Adit #3, located in Figure 2, was driven N25oE for about 130 meters where it traversed a N60oW-trending carbonatite dike with moderate dips to the NNE. The dike was exposed over a strike of about 43 meters (Figures 3 and 4). A total of 9 channel samples were collected across the carbonatite which ranged in width from 1.5 to 4.0 feet (Figure 6). TREE contents ranged from 1.3% to 10.2%. Similar mineralization is present on the surface approximately 55 meters above Adit #3.





Figure 6. Geologic map of Adit #3 showing sample locations and TREE values. Geology from Crowley, 1956.



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The work completed to date by the Partners has identified a broad area hosting REE-enriched carbonatites within a favorable regional corridor. Sampling in the historical adits provides high quality sample data along the dike's strike providing confidence in the geologic model. The next step is the completion of the surface geologic map along with receipt of the soil and stream sediment samples from 2022. The compilation of this work will serve as the basis for a Phase 1 drill program for which permitting will commence in March.

Management Commentary

Mr. James Hedrick, President of US Critical Materials Corp., comments: "The combination of surface and underground sampling gives us an indication that mineralization could be contiguous, and in combination with detailed mapping, will form the basis of our Phase I drill program. These results continue to support our geologic thesis and significantly advance our ability to generate high quality drill targets."

Mr. Darren Collins, Chief Executive Officer and Director of USCM, comments: "The combined result of the surface and underground sampling continues to support our investments into Sheep Creek. We look forward to the receipt of additional results in the near term and finalizing a drill program for permitting."

Quality Control and Quality Assurance

In June, 2022, Robert J. Johansing, BSc (geology), MSc (economic geology), who is a qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (the "QP"), visited the carbonatites at Sheep Creek to confirm the geologic environment and the presence of the noted mineralization. At that time, the QP recommended detailed mapping and sampling over the carbonatites and in the historical mine workings along with reconnaissance-type activities. The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by the QP. This included a review of the lab results and certificates. Mr. Johansing is a consultant for the Company.

The samples were analyzed by Activation Laboratories, located in Ancaster, Canada ("Actlabs"). Actlabs is an independent ISO/IEC 17025 certified laboratory. Internal standards and blanks were inserted for all REEs and major elemental oxides. Additional standards were inserted by the Partners and are in good agreement with the standard's certified values. All samples were ground to 95% -200 mesh to ensure complete fusion with lithium metaborate/tetraborate and analyzed by ICP-OES and ICP-MS. The Zr-Nb-Ta-Hf are semi-quantitative owing to P 2 O 5 values in excess of 0.3%.

Additional information relating to Actlabs' analytical and testing procedures can be found at www.actlabs.com. Actlabs' Quality System monitors all steps and phases of the operations. Quality Assurance program covers all areas of sample transportation, collection, preparation, analysis and data reporting.

Project Overview

Sheep Creek is located in Ravalli County, southwest Montana. Sheep Creek spans 223 lode claims representing approximately 4,500 acres of total land package. The claims are on multiple-use ground administered by the US Forest Service. Exploration activities performed by US Critical Materials Corp. and conducted in late 2021 have identified more than 50 carbonatite dikes in the Sheep Creek exploration area. The carbonatites are up to three meters wide and can be followed for more than 300 meters along strike. Important ore minerals identified include ancylite, allanite, low-thorium monazite, and columbite. The dikes are valuable for their contained light rare earth elements and other strategic metals. Historical grab and rock chip sampling of carbonatites indicate the potential for high-grade mineralization with up to 18.0% total rare earth elements, including 2.4% (23,810ppm) combined neodymium and praseodymium, plus credits in niobium and other strategic metals.

About US Critical Metals Corp.

US Critical Metals Corp. ("USCM") is focused on mining projects that will further secure the U.S. supply of critical metals and rare earth elements, which are essential to fueling the new age economy. Pursuant to option agreements with private Canadian and American companies, USCM's assets consist of four agreements, each providing USCM with the right to acquire interests in five discovery-focused projects in the US. These projects include the Clayton Ridge lithium project located in Nevada, the Sheep Creek rare earth project located in Montana, the Haynes cobalt project located in Idaho, the Lemhi Pass rare earth project located in Idaho and the Long Canyon uranium project located in Idaho. A significant percentage of the world's critical metal and rare earth supply comes from nations with interests that are contrary to those of the US. USCM intends to explore and develop mineral resources with near- and long-term strategic value to the advancement of US interests.

About US Critical Materials Corp.

US Critical Materials Corp. is a private rare earths exploration and development company with holdings in Montana and Idaho. Future development of the Properties includes additional exploration, geologic mapping, sampling and analysis, and drilling with the objective of completing a future resource and reserve estimation. The deposits in Sheep Creek are unique due to low levels of thorium, as discussed above, which potentially allows mining with minimal damage to the environment. U.S. Critical Materials goal is to develop its properties with strategic partners who have the capital and expertise to explore, mine and extract the critical minerals. US Critical Materials Corp. is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

For further information please contact:

Darren Collins

Chief Executive Officer and Director

US Critical Metals Corp.

Telephone: 1-786 633-1756

www.uscmcorp.com

Rachel Winn

Operations Director

US Critical Materials Corp.

Telephone: 1-801 322 3401

www.uscriticalmaterials.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains certain information that may be deemed "forward-looking information" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information includes statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. Forward looking information contained in this press release may include, without limitation, exploration plans and expected exploration results at the Project, results of operations, and the expected financial performance of the Company.

Although the Company believes the forward-looking information contained in this news release is reasonable based on information available on the date hereof, by its nature, forward-looking information involves assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, level of activity, 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 information.

Examples of such assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, assumptions, risks and uncertainties associated with general economic conditions; the Covid-19 pandemic; adverse industry events; the receipt of required regulatory approvals and the timing of such approvals; that the Company maintains good relationships with the communities in which it operates or proposes to operate, future legislative and regulatory developments in the mining sector; the Company's ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favorable terms; mining industry and markets in Canada and generally; the ability of the Company to implement its business strategies; competition; the risk that any of the assumptions prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work, risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, as well as other assumptions risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company, including as set forth in the Company's public disclosure documents filed on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.

The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of USCM 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 USCM may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156213
(Bloomberg) -- China Renaissance Holdings Ltd. said Chairman Bao Fan is cooperating in an unspecified investigation by Chinese authorities, offering the first public information about the bankers whereabouts since he disappeared just over a week ago.

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In a short stock exchange statement on Sunday, the firm suggested it hadnt been in touch with Bao and didnt know where he was.

The board has become aware that Mr. Bao is currently cooperating in an investigation being carried out by certain authorities in the Peoples Republic of China, the firm said. Renaissance will cooperate and assist with any lawful request from the relevant Chinese authorities, if and when they are made, it said.

Baos abrupt disappearance has unnerved Chinas business elite and fanned speculation the nations finance industry is set to face increased scrutiny. As chairman of Chinas pre-eminent tech-focused investment bank, the veteran dealmaker has broad connections across various business sectors and has been a go-to financier for some of the countrys biggest companies.

Several Chinese state-owned lenders have been asking China Renaissance for more information as they assess the risks of loans and other business ties to the firm, people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg News last week.

I would expect all related parties to take precaution and pause on projects linked to the company as its not immediately clear what the probe is about and which part of its business could be implicated, said Shen Meng, a director at Beijing-based investment bank Chanson & Co. If the probe somehow concerns some of the tech deals it helped fix up, then itll impede the tech firms overseas listing plans.

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In China, a suddenly absent boss has come to signal a crackdown or investigation by authorities. In many cases, the person is said to be assisting or cooperating graft probes. Publicly listed companies typically report they have lost contact with the executive and need to make their own inquiries into what happened within the countrys opaque legal system.

Around the same time Bao went missing, authorities also abruptly removed the Communist Party chief of the nations largest property insurer. That move came days after online criticism that Luo Xi, who remains chairman of the firm, was building a personality cult when the company demanded employees recite his golden quotes.

President Xi Jinping launched a broad anti-corruption probe in late 2021 targeting the nations $60 trillion financial sector, which has brought down dozens of officials. The probe has also implicated the investment banking community, ensnaring bankers from brokerages including Everbright Securities Co. and Guotai Junan Securities Co.

China Renaissances shares plunged 28% on Feb. 17, the day after the firm revealed it had lost contact with Bao. Its stock gained as much as 3.2% early Monday, but is still down 11% this year.

(Adds voice and details from sixth graph, updates shares at bottom.)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Nevada King Gold Corp. (TSXV: NKG) (OTCQX: NKGFF) ("Nevada King" or the "Company") is pleased to announce assay results from six reverse circulation ("RC") holes and one core hole recently completed at its Atlanta Gold Mine Project located 264km northeast of Las Vegas, Nevada, in the prolific Battle Mountain Trend. These holes plotted along Section 22-7N were drilled across the high-grade feeder zone associated with several strands of a braided network of structures comprising the Atlanta Mine Fault Zone ("AMFZ").

Highlights:

Hole No From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Notes AT22HG-3T*^ 170.4 285.4 93.6 2.18 17.1 Bottomed in Mineralization Includes 170.4 231.4 61.0 1.31 0.16

And 252.7 285.4 32.6 3.83 48.7 Bottomed in Mineralization Includes 261.0 266.0 5.0 10.94 33.2

AT22NS-54 170.7 216.5 45.7 4.21 79.6

Includes 173.8 199.7 25.9 5.40 113.8

AT22NS-73 22.9 103.7 80.8 2.31 47.4



















Table 1: Highlight holes released today. Mineralization occurs along sub-horizontal horizons generally dipping gently westward; true mineralized thickness in vertical holes is between 85% and 95% of reported drill intercept length. *Denotes core hole. ^Reported as an aggregate assay interval within the longer drill interval.



Holes released today tie into two parallel drill sections previously released: Section22-6N (released January 6, 2023) 27.5m to the south and Section 22-8N (released February 1, 2023) 27.5m to the north. Good continuity in geology and Au-Ag mineralization is seen between all three sections, with higher grade mineralization occurring between the East Atlanta and Atlanta King Faults and on both sides of the West Atlanta Fault (Figure 2).





Section 22-7N demonstrates an east-west width of contiguous mineralization that exceeds 300m. This includes the 100m-wide higher-grade AMFZ, as well as over 200m of lower grade mineralization extending westward from the West Atlanta Fault, where mineralization remains open to depth and to the west.





Shallow oxide mineralization present in AT22NS-73 (80.8m of 2.31 g/t Au and 47.4 g/t Ag starting at 22.9m) is typical of the thicker, higher-grade mineralization encountered along the 30m-wide, wedge-shaped block occurring between the East Atlanta and Atlanta King Faults. Nevada King is currently drilling along strike of this fault block to better define this near surface, high-grade Au-Ag zone.





Mineralization in hole AT22NS-54 (45.7m of 4.21 g/t Au and 79.6 g/t Ag starting at 171m) is typical of thicker, higher-grade mineralization seen in down-dropped blocks along the West Atlanta Fault. Immediately west of AT22NS-54 are two historical holes that tested an adjacent fault block, returning 45m at 5.24 g/t Au and 40.7 g/t Ag in AR-21 and 48.8m at 3.95 g/t Au and 46.9 g/t Ag in 88-13 (see Table 3). Taken together, both fault blocks are about 50m wide and strike parallel to the West Atlanta Fault. The Company is currently drill-defining this important structural corridor along strike with the objective of expanding tonnage and grade within a relatively shallow part of the resource zone.





The broad expanse of deep, lower grade mineralization hosted within variably silicified volcanics and underlying silicified breccia occurring west of the West Atlanta Fault starts at depths of 150m to 250m and typically extends to depths of 300m to 400m, although many of Nevada King's holes and historical holes bottomed in mineralization, so the lower depth constraint is uncertain. Core hole AT22HG-3T and RC hole AT22HG-4, drilled west of the West Atlanta Fault, intercepted 93.6m averaging 2.18 g/t Au and 17.1 g/t Ag and 41.2m grading 1.92 g/t Au and 22.7 g/t Ag, respectively (see Table 2).

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Cal Herron, Exploration Manager of Nevada King. stated, "The four southern-most drill sections (Sections 22-5N, 6N, 7N, and 8N) across the AMFZ show strong correlation of geology and mineralization between the sections, allowing further refinement to our geologic model for the gold and silver mineralization at Atlanta, (see Geologic Model Discussion section below). A primary focus of the 2023 drilling program is defining and following structures responsible for localizing higher-grades. As we've already seen, this requires closely spaced holes in order to tie together the fault blocks and wedges hosting high grades along the AMFZ. Nevada King's new geologic model now gives us a "blue print" for targeting higher-grade Au-Ag mineralization to add to the Atlanta resource model. To this end, one rig is currently engaged in definition drilling along the AMFZ and a second drill will soon be added. At the same time, defining the thick mineralization seen west of the West Atlanta Fault provides significant blue sky potential at Atlanta, where mineralization remains open to depth and to the west. As such, the Company has dedicated one drill for this area in order to vectorize the mineralization and expedite our evaluation process."

Figure 1. Location map for holes reported in this news release along drill section22-7N relative to the perimeter of the historical Atlanta Pit and footprint of the Gustavson 2020 NI 43-101 resource. Shallow drillholes on the mine dumps have been removed from the plot for clarity. (CNW Group/Nevada King Gold Corp.)

Figure 2. Cross section 22-7N looking north across the southern portion of the Atlanta Mine Fault Zone. Shallow intrusive activity and closely associated gold mineralization are localized within the volcanic and sedimentary sequence along the western side of the West Altanta Fault. Higher grade mineralization is concentrated within narrow fault blocks formed between the East Atlanta and Atlanta King Faults and along the West Atlanta Fault. (CNW Group/Nevada King Gold Corp.)

Hole No From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Notes AT22HG-5 186.0 279.0 93.0 1.14 2.1 Bottomed in Mineralization AT22HG-3T* 170.4 231.4 61.0 1.31 0.158

and 252.7 285.4 32.6 3.83 48.7 Bottomed in Mineralization Includes 261.0 266.0 5.0 10.94 33.2

AT22HG-4 175.3 192.1 16.8 0.58 0.5

and 216.5 240.9 24.4 2.84 38.0

AT22NS-54 170.7 216.5 45.7 4.21 79.6

Includes 173.8 199.7 25.9 5.40 113.8

AT22NS-56A 93.0 106.7 13.7 1.88 38.5

AT22NS-76 70.1 100.6 30.5 2.39 41.5

AT22NS-73 22.9 103.7 80.8 2.31 47.4



Table 2: All holes released today. *Denotes core hole.

Hole No From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Notes AT21-68C 99.1 120.3 21.2 3.28 34.4

DHRI-11-1C* 74.7 97.5 22.8 1.9 19.72

DHRI-11-4C* 178.3 301.8 123.5 1.1 9.0

DHRI-11-6C* 227.1 295.1 68 1.11 15.72 Bottomed in Mineralization KR97-8 172.2 195.1 22.9 0.72 0.72

KR97-11 173.8 205.8 32 2.00 9.75

AC-1 118.6 163.6 45 5.24 40.7

AR-19 228.6 304.8 76.2 0.82 3.52 Bottomed in Mineralization AR-21 240.8 304.8 64 0.39 4.21 Bottomed in Mineralization GC96-7 152.4 108.2 44.2 0.87 23.18

88-13 121.9 170.7 48.8 3.95 46.9



Table 3: Previously reported and historic holes used in Section 22-8N. AT21 series hole was drilled by Nevada King in 2021. The KR97 series holes were drilled by Kinross in 1997, the AC series hole was drilled by Goldfields in 1990, and the 88 series holes were drilled by Bobcat in 1988. Due to the multiple orientations of gold mineralization interpreted in today's release, the Company has not yet estimated true widths for individual intercepts. *Denotes core hole.





Geologic Model Discussion

The northerly trending, 100m to 150m wide AMFZ is the dominant structural control over higher-grade mineralization at Atlanta. It focused shallow intrusive activity and the associated hydrothermal system responsible for Au-Ag mineralization. The AMFZ is actually a narrow, up-thrown horst block of Eureka Quartzite and overlying Ely Springs Dolomite that is bounded on the east by the Atlanta King and East Atlanta Faults, and on the west by the West Atlanta Fault and its subsidiary fractures. Gold mineralization preferentially occurs within the Ely Springs Dolomite, whereas the underlying Eureka Quartzite is generally barren. Much of the dolomite in the horst block was stripped off by erosion when the block was uplifted, so the mineralization on top of the quartzite is thin and lower grade. In contrast, thicker and higher grade mineralization was focused in thick sections of down-dropped dolomite within the adjacent graben blocks on both sides of the horst. Normal faults separating these major blocks served as conduits for magma and mineralizing fluids that invaded adjacent dolomite, thereby creating extensive decalcification, collapse brecciation, and subsequent Au-Ag mineralization. Narrow, confined fault wedges adjacent to the major normal faults are altered more strongly and host the highest grades, as seen in drill holes AT22NS-73 and AT22NS-54.

Mineralization west of the West Atlanta Fault occurs within a gently west-dipping sequence of caldera-related volcanics on top of silica breccia and Ely Springs Dolomite. The silica breccia and dolomite are underlain by Eureka Quartzite that is usually barren of mineralization. As seen in Figure 2, faults displacing the basement sequence focus mineralization and strong oxidation. Mineralization within the silica breccia horizon tends to be higher grade and oxidized whereas mineralization in the overlying volcanic sequence is generally low grade (0.2-0.5 g/t Au). Oxidation in the mineralized volcanics appears to be a function of proximity to faults. Historical drill hole density in this area is low, and many of the holes did not penetrate the volcanic cover or go through the silica breccia horizon. We, therefore, have a large, sparsely-tested area to explore all along the western side of the West Atlanta Fault where we are finding a 100m thick, near-horizontal zone of gold mineralization that remains open to the west and to depth.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Calvin R. Herron, P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101").

About Nevada King Gold Corp.

Nevada King is the third largest mineral claim holder in the State of Nevada, behind Nevada Gold Mines (Barrick/Newmont) and Kinross Gold. Starting in 2016 the Company has staked large project areas hosting significant historical exploration work along the Battle Mountain trend located close to current or former producing gold mines. These project areas were initially targeted based on their potential for hosting multi-million-ounce gold deposits and were subsequently staked following a detailed geological evaluation. District-scale projects in Nevada King's portfolio include (1) the 100% owned Atlanta Mine, located 100km southeast of Ely, (2) the Lewis and Horse Mountain-Mill Creek projects, both located between Nevada Gold Mines' large Phoenix and Pipeline mines, and (3) the Iron Point project, located 35km east of Winnemucca, Nevada.

The Company is well funded with cash of approximately $9.3 million as of February 2023.

The Atlanta Mine is a historical gold-silver producer with a NI 43-101 compliant pit-constrained resource of 460,000 oz Au in the measured and indicated category (11.0M tonnes at 1.3 g/t) plus an inferred resource of 142,000 oz Au (5.3M tonnes at 0.83 g/t). See the NI 43-101 Technical Report on Resources titled "Atlanta Property, Lincoln County, NV" with an effective date of October 6, 2020, and a report date of December 22, 2020, as prepared by Gustavson Associates and filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com).

NI 43-101 Mineral Resources at the Atlanta Mine

Resource Category Tonnes (000's) Au Grade (ppm) Contained Au

Oz Ag Grade (ppm) Contained Ag

Oz Measured 4,130 1.51 200,000 14.0 1,860,000 Indicated 6,910 1.17 260,000 10.6 2,360,000 Measured + Indicated 11,000 1.30 460,000 11.9 4,220,000 Inferred 5,310 0.83 142,000 7.3 1,240,000

Please see the Company's website at www.nevadaking.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating the future operations and activities of Nevada King, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the Company's exploration plans and the Company's ability to potentially expand mineral resources and the impact thereon. 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. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Nevada King, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability to complete proposed exploration work given the global COVID-19 pandemic, the results of exploration, continued availability of capital, and changes in general economic, market and business conditions. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Nevada King does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Nevada King Gold Corp. Logo (CNW Group/Nevada King Gold Corp.)

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DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NWTN Inc. (Nasdaq: NWTN), an eco-conscious mobility technology company bringing passenger-centric green premium mobility solutions to the world ("NWTN"), today announced important progress at two key facilities in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Jinhua, Zhejiang, China.

NWTN completed construction of its electric vehicle ("EV") assembly facility in Abu Dhabi at the end of 2022, and since then has been in the final phase of installing equipment and conducting trial operations. The facility has now obtained the required EV production and sales license issued by the UAE government, the first to be issued in Abu Dhabi. With the assembly facility completed and the license received, NWTN is now ready to implement its EV blueprint in the UAE and the Middle East region.

At the same time, NWTN's first parts and supply chain facility in Jinhua, Zhejiang, China has been undergoing rapid construction since September 2022. At this point, most of the workshop infrastructure, which includes stamping, welding, and painting, is in the final stage of construction and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2023.

As the first UAE-based EV company listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, NWTN has received strong financial and policy support from the local government. NWTN's plant in Abu Dhabi is its first EV assembly facility in UAE and is located in the Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi ("KEZAD"). It measures approximately 270,000 square feet. Construction of the facility began in October 2022 and was completed by the end of December 2022. At present, the production line is nearly complete, and NWTN is working with BASF, the chemical company for paint surface refinishing as well as manufacturing safety training. The KEZAD plant will complete the certifications of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 soon, which represent a commitment to high standards of quality management, environmental management, and safety management. When the facility becomes fully operational, NWTN will seek to address the rapidly growing demand for EVs in the UAE and the Middle East, promote green mobility, and accelerate the sustainable energy transformation in the UAE.

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While actively preparing for local production in the UAE, NWTN has also been integrating advanced technology and supply chain system on a global scale to meet NWTN's development needs. As of September 20, 2022, NWTN's parts and supply chain plant in China measures approximately 4,000,000 square feet with a total investment of US$1.46 billion. Once operational, the plant is expected to achieve an annual production capacity of 100,000 EVs. The plant is one of the key projects in Zhejiang Province, China and the first high-end manufacturing project in Jinyi New District of Jinhua City with an investment of over RMB10 billion (approximately US$1.4 billion).

Aerial rendering of NWTNs Jinhua facility

The Jinhua facility will soon be in the final stage of equipment design and manufacture. After the expected completion of the workshop in the second half of 2023, the equipment installation and commissioning will start as planned. Staff has also been recruited for the facility, with the goal that all personnel will complete professional training by the end of 2023. Nearly half of the dormitories and canteens in the campus have been completed, which will provide high-quality logistical support for employees.

Aerial view of Jinhua facility, shot on February 6, 2023

According to the current plan, NWTN's Jinhua plant is expected to be completed by the end of December 2023, with trial production projected to start by the end of February 2024. Mass production of parts will officially start in the second half of 2024.

The construction of NWTN's plants in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Jinhua, Zhejiang, China indicates that this UAE-headquartered emerging company is progressing smoothly. Thanks to the unique capital and location advantages of the UAE as well as opportunities to capitalize on an advanced supply chain system in China, NWTN believes it has the potential to become a dazzling pearl in the global new energy industry chain.

Construction site of Jinhua facility, shot on February 13, 2023

ABOUT NWTN

NWTN is a pioneering green technology company with a mission to bring premium passenger-centric mobility and green energy solutions to the world. Headquartered in Dubai and with its manufacturing facilities in Abu Dhabi, UAE, NWTN aims to integrate avant-garde design, life-style personalization, IoT connectivity, autonomous driving technology, and green energy eco-systems to its future mobility solutions. Its core technology includes modular pure electric platforms, battery packing and management technology, a digital on-board connectivity system, continuously upgraded electric and electronic architecture as well as autonomous driving technology.

NWTN focuses on growth and development in the entire value chain of clean energy applications in the UAE and intends to expand to the Middle East, North Africa, and other Southeast Asian and European territories.

For further information, please visit: https://www.nwtnmotors.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release 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. Such forward-looking statements are characterized by future or conditional verbs such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "anticipate," believe," "estimate" and "continue" or similar words. You should read statements that contain these words carefully because they discuss future expectations and plans, which contain projections of future results of operations or financial condition or state other forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to the risk factors contained in NWTN's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. New risks and uncertainties arise over time, and it is not possible NWTN to predict those events or how they may affect NWTN. If a change to the events and circumstances reflected in NWTN's forward-looking statements occurs, NWTN's business, financial condition and operating results may vary materially from those expressed in NWTN's forward-looking statements.

Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and NWTN assumes no obligation and do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

CONTACT

For investor enquiries:

Michael Bowen

nwtnir@icrinc.com

For media enquiries:

Edmond Lococo

nwtnpr@icrinc.com

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SOURCE NWTN
(Bloomberg) -- Omeed Maliks Colombier Acquisition Corp., a blank-check firm, agreed to merge with PSQ Holdings Inc., a marketplace that connects who it describes as freedom-loving Americans, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

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The combined entity is set to be valued at more than $200 million, said the people, who requested anonymity discussing confidential information. A transaction may be announced as soon as Monday.

Carlsbad, California-based PSQ, which does business as PublicSq., is led by CEO Michael Seifert. It describes itself as the largest marketplace of America-first businesses, and is seeking to provide an alternative to anyone in the US who wants to buy from companies that align with their values, the people said.

Malik, Nick Ayers, who served as chief of staff to Vice President Mike Pence, and Blake Masters, a former Thiel Capital executive endorsed by President Donald Trump in his run for a senate seat in Arizona, are poised to join the combined companys board, said the people.

Representatives for Colombier and PublicSq. declined to comment.

Colombier raised $172.5 million in a June 2021 initial public offering. Malik, a former Bank of America Corp. managing director, talked about patriotic capitalism in a December interview with Tucker Carlson. He formed an investment firm known as 1789 Capital, which says it will provide capital to companies building the next era of American prosperity, its website shows. Its named after the year the US Bill of Rights was signed.

Other conservative companies that have merged with SPACs include Black Rifle Coffee, which now trades as BRC Inc., and Rumble Inc., a Peter Thiel-backed video-sharing platform that says its designed to be immune to cancel culture.

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Read more: Conservative Coffee Company Black Rifle Agrees to SPAC Merger

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Increase in prevalence of optic nerve disorder treatment, growth in geriatric population and increase in technological advancement drive the growth of the global optic nerve disorder treatment market.

PORTLAND, Ore., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Optic Nerve Disorder Treatment Market by Treatment Type (Steroidal Therapy, Immunomodulators Therapy, Others Treatment Type), by Indication (Optic Neuritis, Glaucoma, Optic Nerve Atrophy, Others), by Distribution Channel (Hospital Pharmacies, Drug Stores, Retail Pharmacies, Online Providers): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031." According to the report, the global optic nerve disorder treatment industry generated $3,372.46 million in 2021, and is estimated to reach $5,247.82 million by 2031, witnessing a CAGR of 4.5% from 2022 to 2031. The report offers a detailed analysis of changing market trends, top segments, key investment pockets, value chains, regional landscapes, and competitive scenarios.

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Download Free Sample of the Report- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/14411

Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities-

Increased glaucoma cases and a rise in demand for treatments for optic nerve disorders are the main drivers driving the market's growth. On the other hand, the high cost associated with optic nerve disorders treatment is expected to hamper the growth to some extent. Conversely, increase in growth potential of emerging economies are expected to provide numerous opportunities for market growth during the forecast period.

Impact of Covid-19 on Optic Nerve Disorder Treatment Market:

Decrease in the demand for optic nerve treatment due to the risk of Covid-19 infection had a negative impact on the global optic nerve disorder treatment market, especially during the lockdown period.

However, from 2021, the market started recovering at a full scale.

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The immunomodulator therapy segment to maintain its dominance during the forecast period-

By type, the immunomodulator therapy segment was the highest contributor to the market, with $3,204.51 million in 2021, and is estimated to reach $5,028.40 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period owing to increase in number of ongoing clinical trials for the development of immunotherapeutic agents such as ponesimod, ozanimod and laquimod, in the treatment of optic neuritis and glaucoma.

The glaucoma disease segment to rule the roost-

By Indication, the glaucoma segment was the highest contributor to the market, with $3,231.77 million in 2021 and is estimated to reach $5,041.54 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period owing to increase in prevalence of open angle glaucoma and increase in number of approvals for drugs for the treatment of glaucoma.

The drug stores and retail pharmacies segment held the lion's share in 2021

By end-user, the drug stores and retail pharmacies segment were the highest contributor to the market, with $1,754.10 million in 2021 and is estimated to reach $2,571.83 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 3.9% during the forecast period owing to high availability of products in settings for several types of optic nerve disorders.

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North America garnered the major share in 2021-

By region, the North America market was dominant, in terms of revenue, among other regions in 2021.The key factors that drive the growth of the market in this region are increase in R&D activities and strong presence of key market players. Asia-Pacific is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Increase in R&D infrastructure, substantial investments made by the market players and rise in government support are fueling the growth of the market in this region.

Leading Market Players-

SANTEN PHARMACEUTICAL CO., LTD.

ABBVIE INC.

NOVARTIS AG

PFIZER, INC.

BAUSCH HEALTH COMPANIES, INC.

TEVA PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES LTD.

MALLINCKRODT PHARMACEUTICALS

MERCK AND CO., INC.

AERIE PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.

CIPLA LTD

The report analyzes these key players in the global optic nerve disorder treatment market. These players have adopted various strategies such as new product launches, and product approval to increase their market penetration and strengthen their position in the industry. The report is helpful in determining the business performance, operating segments, developments, and product portfolios of every market player.

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Ophthalmic Drugs Market- Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20212030

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Regenerative Medicine Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20212030

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
Orezone Gold Corporation

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) (the Company or Orezone) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement for an at-the-market, non-brokered private placement of 13,000,000 common shares of the Company at a share price of C$1.27 for gross proceeds of C$16,510,000 (the Offering). The Offering was arranged with a large, and well-established, institutional fund.



The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for: (i) accelerated project development, (ii) ongoing exploration and evaluation, and (iii) general corporate purposes.

Patrick Downey, President & CEO, stated: We are extremely pleased to attract another high-quality fund to the Orezone growth story. While Q1-2023 is shaping up to be a strong quarter, we view the Offering as an opportunity to add another cornerstone investor and to advance several strategic initiatives. These initiatives include accelerated project development at Bombore ahead of the Phase II sulphide expansion, additional targeted exploration drilling, and advancement of Orezones corporate growth strategy in the region.

It is anticipated that the Offering will close on or about March 8, 2023. The Offering is subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, including receipt of all applicable regulatory approvals including the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange. All common shares issued pursuant to the Offering will be subject to a four month hold period from the date of closing. A finders fee is payable in connection with the Offering.

This press release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States. The securities being offered have not been, nor will be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold within the United States absent U.S. registration or an applicable exemption from U.S. registration requirements.

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About Orezone Gold Corporation

Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE OTCQX: ORZCF) is a Canadian mining company operating the open pit Bombore Gold Mine in Burkina Faso.

Orezone is focusing on mining and processing the Phase I near surface free-dig oxides at a planned annual throughput of 5.2 million tonnes. The Company believes that Bombore has a significant underlying sulphide resource to support a substantially larger Phase II expansion. The Company has recently completed a 77,000m resource definition drill program, and plans to issue an updated mineral resource, reserve and life of mine plan, as part of this Phase II expansion. It is expected that the pending study will be completed in Q3-2023 to be followed by a production decision.

Orezone is led by an experienced team focused on social responsibility and sustainability with a proven track record in project construction and operations, financings, capital markets and M&A.

The technical report for the 2019 Feasibility Study on the Bombore Project entitled NI 43-101 Technical Report (Amended) Feasibility Study of the Bombore Gold Project is available on SEDAR under the Companys profile at www.Sedar.com .

Patrick Downey

President and Chief Executive Officer

Vanessa Pickering

Manager, Investor Relations

Tel: 1 778 945 8977 / Toll Free: 1 888 673 0663

info@orezone.com / www.orezone.com

For further information please contact Orezone at +1 (778) 945-8977 or visit the Companys website at www.orezone.com.

The Toronto Stock Exchange neither approves nor disapproves the information contained in this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian Securities laws and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws (together, forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "potential", "possible" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "will", "could", or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Offering, the use of proceeds from the Offering, Phase II sulphide expansion and the Companys growth strategy.

All such forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by management in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management and the qualified persons believe are appropriate in the circumstances.

All forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, terrorist or other violent attacks, the failure of parties to contracts to honour contractual commitments, unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; unexpected failure or inadequacy of infrastructure, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, accidents and equipment breakdowns, political risk, unanticipated changes in key management personnel and general economic, market or business conditions, the failure of exploration programs, including drilling programs, to deliver anticipated results and the failure of ongoing and uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, and other factors described in the Company's most recent annual information form and management discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR on www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this press release.




Hangovers and regret make many an Oscar-winning cocktail, giving new meaning to the expression breakfast of champions. Andrea Riseboroughs successful 25th-hour campaign adds the British actress to a long line of performers whove been recognized by the academy for playing characters with substance abuse issues (or on the receiving end of someone elses). Her role in the microbudget To Leslie exemplifies all the hallmarks of a classic movie drunk: She is charismatic but volatile, tender yet selfish.

SEE Andrea Riseborough (To Leslie) on her marathon of prep to play cycles of shame

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Inspired by a true story, the film is about a single West Texas mom who wins the lottery but finds herself homeless six years later. The Guardians Adrian Horton describes Riseboroughs performance as the kind of intense, full-immersion transformation that would draw the respect of other actors. Film critic Emanuel Levy once hypothesized, Actors love to play dipsomaniacs because these roles allow them to have big attention-grabbing scenes, and to display a wide gamut of emotions and behaviors.

Given the gobsmacked reactions from Riseboroughs peers  Kate Winslet said, in no uncertain terms, that the actress gives the greatest female performance she has ever seenthe accuracy of Horton and Levys combined assessment is tough to deny. The underdog is ranked fourth in Gold Derbys combined odds for 2023 Best Actress. Scroll through the gallery above (or click here for direct access) to see our rankings for the 12 best Oscar-nominated turns by a lead actress in movies about alcoholism and/or drug abuse. Where would you rank Riseborough?

PREDICTthe 2023 Oscar winners through March 12

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Make your predictions at Gold Derby now. Download our free and easy app for Apple/iPhone devices or Android (Google Play) to compete against legions of other fans plus our experts and editors for best prediction accuracy scores. See our latest prediction champs. Can you top our esteemed leaderboards next? Always remember to keep your predictions updated because they impact our latest racetrack odds, which terrify Hollywood chiefs and stars. Dont miss the fun. Speak up and share your huffy opinions in our famous forums where 5,000 showbiz leaders lurk every day to track latest awards buzz. Everybody wants to know: What do you think? Who do you predict and why?

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MONTREAL, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Today, the governments of Canada and Quebec and the City of Montreal are proud to open Maison Akhwa:tsire, a permanent, culturally safe housing centre created by Projets Autochtones du Quebec (PAQ). The centre will be providing 18 rooms that can accommodate up to 22 Indigenous men and women experiencing chronic homelessness in Montreal.

Government of Canada Logo (CNW Group/Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation)

This centre is centrally located in Downtown Montreal, near the Centre hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal (CHUM) and PAQ's main shelter. The building has permanent housing units, including six bedrooms that are fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. Culturally adapted psychosocial support will be provided 24 hours a day by experienced workers, allowing the residents to live semi-independently after a long period of homelessness. Maison Akhwa:tsire will also provide clinical and psychological care on site, including medical and nursing care, mental health support and resources, and regular visits from the Elder of PAQ's community.

This project was made possible by the contribution of the Government of Canada, the Government of Quebec and the City of Montreal.

The Government of Canada, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), contributed $4.7 million as part of the Canada-Quebec Agreement on the first round of the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI).

The Government of Quebec's contribution is threefold. Firstly, a recurring $1M in the QAP initiative through the Ministry of Health and Social Services, in order to provide support to the people housed in the new units. It should also be noted that the First Nations and Inuit Relations Secretariat confirmed in April 2022 an investment of $600,000 through the Aboriginal Initiatives Fund III. This funding was used for the renovation and fitting out of the new building. Finally, the Societe d'habitation du Quebec (SHQ) will provide rent supplements, which will allow residents to pay 25% of their income for housing.

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The City of Montreal is responsible for supporting the organization throughout the project and providing technical support for its development.

Quotes:

"Indigenous people face many challenges in accessing safe and affordable housing, which has resulted in high rates of homelessness. That's why projects like Maison Akhwa:tsire are so important: they provide decent, permanent and culturally safe housing to those in need. We will continue to support Projets Autochtones du Quebec in its mission to create affordable housing in Montreal for Indigenous people, so that we can keep moving together toward a fairer society."  The Honourable Mark Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Member of Parliament for Ville-MarieLe Sud-OuestIle-des-Surs

"Everyone in Quebec deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. Now, more than ever, it's important that we work together to support Indigenous people and help them build a foundation for their social and economic success."  The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Member of Parliament for LaurierSainte-Marie and Minister of Environment and Climate Change

"Congratulations to Projets Autochtones du Quebec for all their efforts leading to the completion of Maison Akhwa:tsire! We are very pleased to see these new units being added to the many projects funded through our Rapid Housing Initiative. Together, we are providing the Montreal Indigenous community with a valuable resource that will welcome the most vulnerable and help them make a fresh start!"  Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion and Member of Parliament for Hochelaga

"The additional supply of supportive housing that meets the specific needs of Indigenous people in the Montreal area is certainly very good news. The completion of this project is a great example that through the dedication and generosity of all the partners who are working together, we are succeeding in finding concrete solutions to support people experiencing homelessness and help them break out of this cycle." - Lionel Carmant, Minister responsible for Social Services

"I am very proud to have been able to support the Akhwa:tsire House project. There is no miracle or single solution to homelessness. We need to act on the front line, but also on second and third stage solutions to offer opportunities to vulnerable clients to get off the streets. It is also important to offer culturally adapted solutions to Indigenous peoples experiencing homelessness, in a safe environment. This is exactly what PAQ offers to this clientele with the Akhwa:tsire House. Congratulations to Heather and the entire team for what I am sure will be a great success." - Ian Lafreniere, Minister responsible for First Nations and Inuit Relations

"We would like to thank Projets Autochtones du Quebec for their outstanding work. PAQ is an integral part of Montreal's mutual support network, and which is working hard to provide help, comfort and hope to Indigenous people experiencing considerable difficulty. We are pleased to support La Maison Akhwa:tsire, which provides a decent and safe space for vulnerable people as well as dependable resources and specialized workers."  Josefina Blanco, City of Montreal Executive Committee member responsible for diversity, social inclusion, homelessness and universal accessibility

"By supporting this important project by Projets Autochtones du Quebec (PAQ) we are acting in line with our Reconciliation Strategy with Indigenous Peoples to provide tailored, safe and sustainable solutions that meet the needs of the most vulnerable. Adapted housing solutions make it possible to quickly get people into housing, rather than letting them remain stuck in homelessness. This is why it is important to continue working with our partners to develop such projects. La Maison Akhwa:tsire will certainly be a landmark for the urban Indigenous community in Montreal."  Alia Hassan-Cournol, Special advisor to the mayor and head of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples

"Projets Autochtones du Quebec is pleased to open Maison Akhwa:tsire, an innovative housing program offering health and healing services for the urban Indigenous community in Montreal. Maison Akhwa:tsire, which means 'my family home,' will provide a beautiful space with an interior design created by the talented Innu designer Julia Hervieux. The Indigenous population of Montreal will find a culturally safe home where they can get the support they need to achieve stability, build a community and (re)connect with their roots and traditions. On behalf of the Indigenous community, Projets Autochtones du Quebec would like to sincerely and deeply thank its partners from the Government of Canada, the Government of Quebec and the City of Montreal for their support and assistance in the creation of this shelter, which is essential to urban Indigenous people."  Heather Johnston, Executive Director of Projets Autochtones du Quebec

Quick facts:

Maison Akhwa:tsire will serve as shelter for homeless Indigenous people as well as seven people currently participating in PAQ's Managed Alcohol Program, which is offered in partnership with the CHUM's Addiction Services unit.

Culturally adapted psychosocial support will be provided 24 hours a day by experienced workers, allowing the 22 residents to live semi-independently after a long period of homelessness.

PAQ will also provide clinical and psychological care on site, including medical and nursing care, mental health support and resources, and regular visits from the Elder of PAQ's community. Outdoor and cultural programming will help Indigenous residents connect or reconnect with their traditions and culture.

The federal government provided $4.7 million for this project through CMHC as part of the Canada-Quebec Agreement on RHI.

The tenants of this project will benefit from the Rent Supplement Program, which will allow them to spend only 25% of their gross income on housing. This assistance is covered by the SHQ (90%) and the City of Montreal (10%).

PAQ approached several authorities, which allowed for another $2.1 million to be added to the project's financing arrangements.

Additional Info:

Created in 2004, PAQ offers specialized resources for support and mutual assistance to clients from Indigenous communities in Quebec (young people, families, seniors and people with functional limitations). The organization pursues social development projects that help to prevent crime, addiction, poverty and delinquency. Projects are designed to promote individual reintegration and closer intercultural ties.

All participating organizations under the Major Cities Stream of RHI rounds 1 and 2 receive support from the City of Montreal throughout the life of their project. In addition to providing technical support, the City ensures the projects' viability and the long-term affordability of the housing units. A total of 19 projects, representing more than 357 units, have been selected thanks to the federal government's financial contribution of more than $103 million under the Major Cities Stream of the Canada-Quebec Agreement on RHI, and support from the Government of Quebec and the City of Montreal.

Government of Quebec Logo (CNW Group/Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation)

Logo City of Montreal (CNW Group/Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation)

SOURCE Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

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Only airline to offer extensive flights from Montreal's Trudeau and Saint-Hubert airports

LONGUEUIL, QC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Porter Aviation Holdings Inc. (PAHI) is entering a partnership with Montreal Saint-Hubert Airport (YHU) to develop a new terminal capable of serving over 4 million passengers annually. Construction will commence in mid-2023, with a scheduled completion by late 2024, providing a second airport for Porter Airlines (Porter) to serve the Montreal market.

Porter is the only airline to offer extensive flights from Montreal's Trudeau and Saint-Hubert airports (CNW Group/Porter Airlines Inc.)

Porter will continue expanding its existing operations at Montreal's Trudeau Airport (YUL), while also introducing a Canada-wide network at the convenient YHU airport. More than 10 potential YHU routes have been initially identified, spanning from Vancouver in the west to St. John's, N.L., in the east. The airline also intends to connect YHU with both of its Toronto hubs - Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) and Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). This will provide Porter with the most compelling and convenient flight offering between Canada's two largest cities. Routes will be served with a combination of 78-seat De Havilland Dash 8-400 and 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 aircraft.

The YHU terminal development is modelled after the successful revitalization of Billy Bishop that Porter has been a part of for the last 17 years. After decades of declining passenger service, Porter's commitment to YTZ was the catalyst for route developments and infrastructure investments that led to the airport serving nearly three million passengers annually, across more than 20 routes and producing $3 billion dollars of annual economic impact. The YHU terminal will provide faster passenger processing, resulting in travel time savings to go along with a comfortable departure lounge environment that Billy Bishop travellers are familiar with. PAHI originally designed and built the modern terminal at YTZ that is in use today.

"Saint-Hubert has incredible potential as a complementary secondary airport for Montreal, with a convenient location for a significant portion of the local market and also easy access to downtown Montreal," said Michael Deluce, president and CEO, PAHI. "We have proven this concept at Billy Bishop, now one of the world's best urban airports, and look forward to working with our partners at Saint-Hubert to help create a similar success story."

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The new terminal will be open to other airlines, including Pascan Aviation. Pascan's current YHU network focuses on regional Quebec flights. Porter and Pascan intend to develop a codeshare partnership that facilitates seamless movement of passengers between their respective airlines. This provides increased opportunities for travellers to move within the province of Quebec and other regions of Canada.

"Montreal Saint-Hubert Airport is proud to welcome Porter Airlines," said Yanic Roy, managing director, Montreal-Saint-Hubert Airport. "With an ambitious fleet plan, latest generation aircraft and an established airport management track record, Porter is the perfect match for the Montreal Saint-Hubert Airport. This new partnership will provide world-class air services to the Greater Montreal population and the Quebec regions. It will also ease air travel between the province and the rest of Canada, and be a key item for the development of the Longueuil aerospace cluster."

The investment in YHU will result in over 500 permanent jobs, including full-time positions within terminal and airline operations, and the establishment of a new pilot and flight attendant crew base.

Terminal overview

Modern design aesthetic, featuring natural light and high-quality materials

21,000 sq. m. (225,000 sq. ft.)

9 bridged aircraft gates

Lounge-style seating for all passengers

Food and beverage concessions, and retail vendors

A Net-Zero facility with all building systems to fully operate on electric power

State-of-the-art passenger and baggage processing, and security installations

The terminal is being designed by Scott Associates Architects.

About Porter

Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter's fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves a North American network from Eastern Canada. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline in the World Airline Star Rating. Visit www.flyporter.com or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Porter Airlines Logo (CNW Group/Porter Airlines Inc.)

SOURCE Porter Airlines Inc.

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www.rd.dk







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27 February 2023





Company Announcement No 16/2023

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Pursuant to 24 of the Capital Markets Act, Realkredit Danmark A/S hereby publishes prepayments as at Friday 24 February 2023. Please find the data in the attached file.

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Any additional questions should be addressed to Hella Gebhardt Rnnebk, Chief Analyst, phone +45 4513 2068.

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40-tonne order is latest advance in Progressive Planet's strategy to increase revenue and productivity by commercializing by-products into direct commercial sales

KAMLOOPS, BC, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - Progressive Planet (TSXV: PLAN) (OTCQB: ASHXF) ("PLAN", or the "Company") is pleased to announce it is advancing its strategy to become a global supplier of natural fertilizers, starting with a confirmed order from a major North American manufacturer of fertilizer.

Progressive Planet Solutions Inc. logo (CNW Group/Progressive Planet Solutions)

The purchase order was received after the Progressive Planet volcanic-derived fertilizer ingredient  swelling bentonite used in popular sulphur bentonite fertilizers  passed a rigorous series of quality control tests by the customer.

The initial 40-tonne order represents a significant achievement for Progressive Planet on two fronts:

Progressive Planet expands its entry into the $60-billion USD North American fertilizer market, a foothold it intends to grow in the months and years ahead by tapping into its wholly owned deposits of natural volcanic ash, minerals and clays.

The fertilizer additive sale also advances Progressive Planet's strategy of maximizing the environmental and commercial benefits of all natural materials it harvests and processes from its volcanic deposits in southern British Columbia. In this case, the fertilizer component being shipped is a direct by-product from its production of Wundercat cat litter, representing a circular approach to product development designed to enhance both the sustainability and profitability of Progressive Planet.

"I am delighted to see Progressive Planet continue to improve efficiencies by converting a mineral powder by-product directly into a high-value end product without further processing," said Progressive Planet CEO Steve Harpur.

"Historically, we would convert mineral powder by-products back into granular products using costly incremental water, electricity, natural gas, and labour to wet, dry, extrude, and crush this material a second time," he added. "Now, this valuable by-product is simply bulk packaged and shipped. This increases our gross margins and creates a more sustainable manufacturing process from our volcanic ash and mineral supply chain."

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Harpur said the company is highly confident this initial fertilizer sale will be one of many, based on the company's historic customer-retention record.

"When customers order from Progressive Planet, our records show that over 90 per cent reorder," said Harpur. "That's why Progressive Planet products are in 10,000 plus North American stores and outlets  and counting."

Progressive Planet, surrounded by the ancient volcanic fields of southern British Columbia, is a Clean-tech manufacturer of a wide array of every-day products derived from volcanic ashes and minerals it harvests from its extensive volcanic deposits. From its C-Quester Innovation Centre in Kamloops, Progressive Planet taps into these ancient resources to create planet-friendly solutions for the cement, agricultural and fertilizer sectors that reduce CO2 emissions and restore the health of the Earth.

Progressive Planet provides regular information for investors on its website: progressiveplanet.com/investors/. This includes press releases and other information about financial performance, patents filed, and information on corporate governance.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

About Progressive Planet:

We are a well-established Cleantech and manufacturing company based in Kamloops, British Columbia, in the heart of some of Canada's richest volcanic fields, which are the prime ingredient of our innovations. Our expertise lies in merging Cleantech innovations with ancient volcanic ash and minerals to create planet-friendly products that fight climate change and protect our planet's health. Our planet-friendly consumer products are in 10,000+ retail stores in North America. Our new innovations, created in our C-Quester Center for innovation, are bringing positive disruption to the cement, agricultural and animal-care sectors to create products that contribute to fighting climate change and restoring ecosystems.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements, which reflect the expectations of management regarding the matters described herein. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance, or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will occur or, if they do occur, what benefits the Company will obtain from them. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current views and are based on certain expectations, estimates and assumptions which may prove to be incorrect. A number of risks and uncertainties could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including factors beyond the Company's control. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release.

Disclaimer:

This news release, required by Canadian laws, does not constitute an offer of securities and is not for distribution or dissemination outside Canada.

SOURCE Progressive Planet Solutions

Cision

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Integrated Measurement Delivers Actionable, Privacy-Safe Patient Insights for Real-Time Planning, Activation, and Optimization

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PulsePoint, a technology company revolutionizing health decision-making in real time, today announced the launch of integrated direct-to-consumer (DTC) measurement solutions in partnership with Komodo Health, a leading healthcare technology company that has built the industry's most complete and connected view of patient encounters. PulsePoint clients using the Life platform can now leverage Komodo Health's advanced analytic capabilities and insights visualization tools for first-party audience profiling and measurement, in addition to PulsePoint's first-party and proprietary collection of intelligence tools.

Understanding what influences patients to take clinical action with a brand has become increasingly challenging. Brands need real-time visibility into their actions to fully understand how to influence what they may do next along the patient journey. Those that aren't measuring effectively are most likely acting on insights that don't verify if messaging actually reached a patient in the first place. An unbiased approach to measurement is essential to ensuring marketers have a complete and accurate understanding of what's working so they're in the best position to improve campaigns that are underperforming.

Combining PulsePoint data with the Komodo Healthcare Map and configurable measurement solutions provides unbiased, third-party DTC campaign measurement on exposed and unexposed audiences. This enables PulsePoint clients to harness actionable, privacy-safe audiences with Komodo's clinical and digital intelligence to rapidly respond to evolving patient behaviors driven by real-time campaign results planned, activated, and optimized on Life. Real-time measurement allows for real-time optimizations to better reach patients within the targeted health condition and drive improved outcomes.

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Key omnichannel measurement capabilities include:

Understand what tactics to prioritize to improve audience quality and maximize qualified audience impact.

Drill down into key demographic and clinical insights about the audience reached, such as geo-location, age, and gender, knowing who initiated, refilled, or stopped an Rx, or switched to or from a competitor.

Identify campaign-driven script lift for exposed and unexposed patients based on a test and control methodology run dynamically, in real time.

"PulsePoint has a significant competitive advantage as it relates to fidelity, flexibility, and access, which allows us to provide a stronger, first-party point of view of the consumer with actionable outcomes to optimize campaigns and strategy that other DTC measurement solutions cannot," said Andrew Stark, Chief Revenue Officer at PulsePoint. "Our unique approach to closed-loop measurement and variety of solutions allow PulsePoint to deliver the greatest possible HCP and DTC audience reach outcome in near real time."

"This partnership fuels a unique opportunity for PulsePoint clients to gain a more comprehensive and representative view of their patient audience, and connect the dots between individual patient journeys and large-scale clinical outcomes," said Aswin Chandrakantan, MD, Chief Operating Officer at Komodo Health. "As life sciences teams aim to take a more data-driven approach to DTC performance measurement, these new solutions can help give a window into real-time campaign adjustments that can be made to strengthen engagement."

This announcement furthers PulsePoint's focus on building a smarter, more scalable, more efficient way for brands to target, reach, understand, and activate healthcare audiences through next-generation technology that is powered by verified health audience data in real time.

About PulsePoint

PulsePoint is a leading technology company that uses real-world data in real time to optimize campaign performance and revolutionize health decision-making. Leveraging proprietary datasets and methodology, PulsePoint targets healthcare professionals and patients with an unprecedented level of accuracydelivering unparalleled results to the clients we serve. The company is now a part of Internet Brands, a KKR portfolio company and owner of WebMD Health Corp. For more information, visit pulsepoint.com.

Contact:

Sanwari Gupta

sagupta@pulsepoint.com

Cision

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SOURCE PulsePoint
FloQast

Six in ten (63%) U.K. accounting and finance professionals are concerned about the accuracy of their company's monthly financial statements; one in three U.K. companies have less than six months cash runway; 87% of accounting and finance professionals report greater stress at month end, with 69% concerned about burnout.

Featured Image for FloQast

Featured Image for FloQast

LONDON, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Six in ten (63%) U.K. accounting and finance professionals are concerned over the accuracy of their company's monthly financial statements, according to new research published by FloQast, a provider of accounting workflow automation. Accounting and finance teams are feeling the pressure of the recessionary environment, with 87% reporting greater stress during the month-end close process - this is markedly up from the 70% figure reported in FloQast's same research program a year ago. And this leaves 69% of accounting and finance leaders concerned that their team would suffer from burnout as a result.

These findings are highlighted in The State of Play in UK Accounting, Transformation in Uncertain Times, the second instalment of FloQast's research series exploring the most pressing issues and challenges facing U.K. accounting teams. The report collates responses from 500 finance directors and controllers to highlight the growing pressures facing British organisations as they navigate economic volatility.

'Work more' mantra is contributing to burnout and acting as a barrier to accuracy

This level of economic disruption is placing greater demands on accounting and finance leaders to deliver swift, accurate reporting to inform decision-making and maintain business performance. The fact that a high percentage of accountants would choose to "work more" when asked what they would do with a spare hour of time (32%) illustrates just how overwhelming their day-to-day workload has become.

Recessionary environment, cash runway and staff retention top concerns

Adding to the pressure on finance teams is the worry about the recessionary environment. When considering pressures impacting performance and capacity, cash flow is the biggest concern (35%). This is brought into sharp focus by the findings that one in three finance professionals revealed that their company has less than six months cash runway.

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Staff retention is also a significant concern for performance and capacity, with loss of team members (35%) and maintaining team morale (34%) falling in the top three reasons. And justifiably so, with one in three respondents saying both headcount (32%) and salaries (32%) will be frozen to manage operating expenses during the recessionary environment.

Adam Zoucha, MD EMEA FloQast, says: "Accounting teams are striving for operational excellence but falling short, with fiscal accuracy taking a hit. This uncertainty around the month-end close puts organisations at undue risk whilst they are navigating economic uncertainty. And, given the limits on cash flow for some organisations, this could put them in dangerous territory."

Technology seen as the primary lever to improve accuracy and morale

In the face of growing pressure, technology is seen as a primary investment organisations can make to alleviate these pain points - cited by 43% - ranking significantly higher than investment in people (24%), process (16%) and culture (12%).

Although accountants recognise how technology can help them deliver operational excellence, almost half of organisations (47%) have failed to invest in new financial software in the past year.

Accuracy, manual processes, and workload reduction are the primary drivers for tech investment

With more than half of respondents concerned that insufficient or inaccurate data is impacting organisational performance, the merits of software investment are shared by a core group of accountants. Four in ten (43%) agree technology would most significantly impact accuracy, followed by reducing manual processes (39%) and reducing workload (31%).

"Technology is a crucial lever for organisations struggling with resource. It not only helps accounting teams bring clarity to their month-end numbers, but it also frees the team up to focus on the strategic imperatives," concludes Zoucha. "By focusing on strategic initiatives, organisations can ride out the current economic climate and be better placed for success moving forward."

About FloQast

FloQast delivers workflow automation software enabling organisations to operationalize accounting excellence. Trusted by more than 2,000 accounting teams - including Twilio, Los Angeles Lakers, Zoom, and Snowflake - FloQast was built by accountants, for accountants to enhance the way accounting teams work. FloQast enables customers to streamline processes such as automated reconciliations, documentation requests, and other workflows that impact the month-end close, financial reporting, and payroll and is consistently rated #1 across all user review sites. Learn more at FloQast.com.

Contact Information:

Kyle Cabodi

FloQast Director of Corporate Communications

kyle.cabodi@floqast.com



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Rover Metals Corp.

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rover Metals Corp. (TSXV: ROVR) (OTCQB: ROVMF) (FSE:4XO) (Rover or the Company) announces that further to its releases of December 21, 2022, February 14, 2023, and February 21, 2023 the Company has now closed its $0.08 Unit Financing. The Company has raised a total of $880,000 under three closings: $376,000 on November 16, 2022; $202,000 on December 21, 2022; and $302,000 on February 24, 2023. As a result of this financing, the Company has issued 11,000,000 common shares, and 11,000,000 common share purchase warrants (the Warrants) across the three closings. The Warrants have a useful life of 30 months and an exercise price of $0.12 per warrant share. Finders cash commissions of $37,910.56 were paid, and 473,882 finders warrants were issued in connection with this financing. The finders warrants bear the same terms as the warrants issued under the financing. Common shares and Warrants issued in connection with the financing will bear the standard four-month regulatory hold period required by the Toronto Venture Exchange.



Use of Proceeds

The proceeds from the financing are being used for:

Permitting costs for the Lets Go Lithium (LGL) project, NV, USA Acquisition option payment costs for the LGL project Lithium exploration costs at the LGL project Annual holding costs for the Companys other natural resource projects General and Administrative expenses Marketing and Investor Relations costs

Judson Culter, CEO at Rover Metals, states The closing of this financing keeps us on track with our permitting work at the LGL project. In Q1 of this year, management began working with the Bureau of Land Management (the BLM) to obtain an exploration drill permit for the project. Management has secured water rights for its exploration permit, and has submitted its application to the BLM. An updating release will be provided once we receive our exploration permit from the BLM.

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About Rover Metals

Rover is a publicly traded junior mining company that trades on the TSXV under symbol ROVR, on the OTCQB under symbol ROVMF, and on the FSE under symbol 4XO. Rover is currently focussed on the development of a claystone lithium project in southwest Nevada, USA, near to the city of Las Vegas. Plans for 2023 include a maiden reverse circulation drill program at the Lets Go Lithium project.

The Company has a diverse portfolio of mining resource development projects with varying exploration timelines. Its critical mineral projects include lithium, zinc, and copper. Its precious metals projects include gold and silver. The Company is exclusive to the mining jurisdictions of Canada and the U.S.

You can follow Rover on its social media channels:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rovermetals

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rover-metals/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoverMetals/

for daily company updates and industry news, and

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJsHsfag1GFyp4aLW5Ye-YQ?view_as=subscriber

for corporate videos.

Subscribe to our Newsletter on our Website: https://www.rovermetals.com/

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Judson Culter

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Rover's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur. There can be no assurance that such statements prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements, and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Any factor could cause actual results to differ materially from Rovers expectations. Rover undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS NEWS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE COMPANY AS OF THE DATE OF THIS NEWS 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.

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OF THIS RELEASE.

CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Email: info@rovermetals.com Phone: +1 (778) 754-2855




Experienced sales executive to help CEOs at SaaS and technology companies establish, grow, and maintain high performing sales teams capable of extraordinary results

Dan Lackner, CSO, Chief Outsiders

Experienced sales executive to help CEOs at SaaS and technology companies establish, grow, and maintain high performing sales teams capable of extraordinary results

NEWPORT, RI, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Daniel Lackner, a senior sales leader with extensive experience in analytic software applications, CRM, and SaaS solutions will now apply his technology and SaaS industry experience to drive client revenue as a Fractional CSO for Chief Outsiders. Recently, Lackner joined Chief Outsiders team of more than 125 Fractional Chief Sales Officers (CSOs) and Fractional Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs).

Dan works closely with early to mid-stage technology companies to build a tight interlock with marketing and eliminate friction in the demand funnel, said Karen Hayward, Managing Partner, Chief Outsiders.

One of Lackners roles as a new Chief Outsiders Fractional CSO is to drive recurring revenue growth for clients by designing and implementing high velocity recurring revenue models. With a track record of success in sales, marketing, product management, engineering, and customer success, Dan optimizes results with the design and implementation of sales processes, compensation plans, account strategy, training, and demand funnel management.

SaaS and Technology Sales Leadership

At Chief Outsiders, Lackner works with the CEOs of early to mid-stage SaaS and technology companies to accelerate sales growth. For example, prior to joining Chief Outsiders, as President and Chief Operating Officer at Nivo1, he doubled the installed base by implementing a new sales model to shorten the sales cycle and improve customer satisfaction.

As Senior Vice President, Worldwide Analytic Software Sales at TIBCO, Lackner grew bookings 25% YoY and reduced customer churn by 5% by implementing a high velocity recurring revenue model. At Siebel, Dan grew worldwide license revenues from $4 million to over $70 million in eighteen months, catapulting Siebel to a leadership position in the marketing automation marketplace.

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Lackners executive marketing experience includes six years at Acxiom Corporation where he achieved 30% revenue growth establishing and building the government and non-profit business unit. He also briefly served as Senior Vice President at comScore, and Vice President at Oracle Corporation and Information Resources.

Prior to his successful sales career, Lackner earned an AB in Economics from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana and a Masters in Business Administration with high honors from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business in Chicago, Illinois.

About Chief Outsiders

Chief Outsiders, the nations leading Executives-as-a-Service firm, helps CEOs and their organizations identify the fractional marketing and sales executives they need to accelerate growth. The firms cohesive team of more than 125 fractional executives act as Strategic Operators to achieve results. They blend insight, strategy, and execution to deliver revenue engines that drive long-term profitable growth for businesses.

Chief Outsiders fractional executives drive growth strategy and execution plans by offering instant access to talent with highly customized and flexible engagements. Having served on the executive teams of more than 1,550 client companies, each Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Sales Officer has led marketing or sales at a diverse set of large corporations, including many Fortune 500 firms. Inc. Magazine has recognized Chief Outsiders for nine consecutive years as one of the 5,000 fastest growing privately held companies in the US. The company was also recognized as a Forbes Small Giant in 2019.

The Growth Gears: Using a Market-Based Framework to Drive Business Success, is an Amazon #1 best-seller for business owners and CEOs co-authored by Chief Outsiders CEO Art Saxby and Principal Pete Hayes. For additional information about the companies and CEOs who trust Chief Outsiders as their premier source for business growth acceleration, visit us at www.chiefoutsiders.com.

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CONTACT: Sterling Wilkinson Chief Outsiders swilkinson@chiefoutsiders.com




IndexBox, Inc.

NEW YORK, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Here are some interesting points from a new IndexBox's report on the global scaffolding equipment market.



Market Outlook

The global scaffolding equipment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.6% from 2022 to 2030, increasing from $22B to $25B. This expansion will be driven by several factors, including the increasing construction activity around the world, the need for safe and efficient construction methods, and the growing popularity of prefabricated buildings. However, the high cost of scaffolding equipment and stringent regulations related to its usage are some of the key challenges faced by manufacturers in the market.

View a sample report and free data online

The scaffolding equipment market is segmented by type into system, frame, tube/clamp, and suspended scaffolds. Frame ones are expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period due to their light weight and portability. The system scaffold segment is forecast to dominate the market due to its easy installation and dismantling of such equipment.

The market is segmented by material into aluminum , steel , wooden, fiberglass and others. Steel scaffolding equipment dominates the market due to its high strength and durability. Aluminum is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period due to its light weight, which makes it easy to transport and install. Nonetheless, steel is anticipated to remain the most widely used material for manufacturing scaffolding equipment over the next few years. The end-uses of scaffolding equipment include construction, shipbuilding, repairing, tunneling, mining, oil and gas refining/storage/transportation, power generation/transmission/distribution, and event management. Among these applications, construction is estimated to be the largest and the fastest-growing application segment owing to increasing construction activities worldwide. The main end-users of scaffolding equipment are general contractors, specialty contractors, and do-it-yourselfers (DIY).

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The global scaffolding equipment market is segmented into North America , Europe , Asia Pacific , and the rest of the world. Asia Pacific is estimated to be the largest as well as the fastest-growing segment in terms of both value and volume due to the increasing number of infrastructure projects in China, India, Japan, and South Korea. North America and Europe are set to follow Asia Pacific.

Asia-Pacific Market Forecast

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is expected to be the major revenue contributor to the market throughout the forecast period. The increasing construction activities in this region, especially in China, are driving the demand for scaffolding equipment.

In 2030, China is expected to be the worlds largest construction market, with projects worth an estimated US$2.3T. This is a significant increase from US$1.6T in 2020. The government's "Made in China 2025" initiative is likely to provide a boost to the sector, as it focuses on developing infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities. In addition, continued urbanization and the rise of the middle class are expected to drive demand for new residential and commercial buildings. One of the most notable construction projects underway in China is the Beijing Daxing International Airport, which is scheduled for completion in 2023.

Value Chain Analysis

An initial evaluation of the raw materials used in the making of scaffolds marks the commencement of a value chain analysis. The next step involves examining different parts and components utilized in constructing scaffolding equipment, following which, an assessment of the manufacturing process, namely production and assembly, is conducted. Subsequently, to get an understanding of potential growth prospects for this segment, an examination of end-use applications for scaffolds is undertaken.

About IndexBox

IndexBox is a market research firm developing an AI-driven market intelligence platform that helps business analysts find actionable insights and make data-driven decisions. The platform provides data on consumption, production, trade, and prices for more than 10K+ different products across 200 countries.

Companies Mentioned in the Report

Waco International Ltd., Safway Group LLC, Harsco Corporation, Altrad Group SA, United Rentals Inc., RMD Kwikform Ltd., Ulma Group, Quanta Services Inc., ThyssenKrupp AG, HAKI, Hunnebeck GmbH, Alufase, Acrow Corporation of America, System Scaffold Services Inc., Layher Allround System

Sources

World  Equipment for Scaffolding, Shuttering, Propping or Pit Propping - Market Analysis, Forecast, Size, Trends and Insights

EU - Equipment for Scaffolding, Shuttering, Propping or Pit Propping - Market Analysis, Forecast, Size, Trends and Insights

Asia - Equipment for Scaffolding, Shuttering, Propping or Pit Propping - Market Analysis, Forecast, Size, Trends and Insights

U.S. - Equipment for Scaffolding, Shuttering, Propping or Pit Propping - Market Analysis, Forecast, Size, Trends and Insights

CONTACT: Contact Information Mekhrona Dzhuraeva Editor media@indexbox.io




BEDFORD, NS / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / (TSXV:SSE) - Silver Spruce Resources Inc. (the "Company") announced today a private placement of up to 66,666,667 units at a price of $0.015 per unit for gross proceeds of up to $1,000,000. Each unit will consist of one common share and a warrant to purchase an additional common share at an exercise price of $0.05 per share for a period of two years from the closing of the private placement.

The proceeds from the private placement will be used for exploration of the Company's mineral projects and general working capital.

The private placement is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Finder's fees will be paid on the private placement in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Silver Spruce Resources Inc.

Silver Spruce Resources Inc. is a Canadian junior exploration company which has signed Definitive Agreements to acquire 100% of the Melchett Lake Zn-Au-Ag project in northern Ontario, and with Colibri Resource Corp. in Sonora, Mexico, to acquire 50% interest in Yaque Minerales S.A de C.V. holding the El Mezquite Au project, and up to 50% interest in each of Colibri's Jackie Au and Diamante Au-Ag projects. Silver Spruce has signed Definitive Agreements to acquire100% interest in the MysteryAu project in the ExploitsSubzone Gold Belt, Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Pino de Plata Ag project in western Chihuahua, Mexico. Silver Spruce Resources Inc. continues to investigate opportunities that Management has identified or that have been presented to the Company for consideration.

Contact:

Silver Spruce Resources Inc.

Michael Kinley, CEO

(902) 402-0388

mkinley@silverspruceresources.com

info@silverspruceresources.com

www.silverspruceresources.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements," Statements in this press release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future, including but not limited to, statements regarding the private placement.

Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Such factors include, among others, the inherent uncertainties associated with mineral exploration and difficulties associated with obtaining financing on acceptable terms. We are not in control of metals prices and these could vary to make development uneconomic. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this press release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate.

SOURCE: Silver Spruce Resources Inc.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/740931/Silver-Spruce-Announces-Private-Placement-of-up-to-700000




Market Research Future

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 By MRFR

New York, US, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Space Electronics Market Summary :

Market Research Future (MRFR) 's report highlights Space Electronics Market Research Report Information by Platform, Component, Subsystem, Product, Region Global Forecast till 2030, the space Electronics Market Size is expected to reach USD 1.6 Billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 5.4% during 2021-2030.

Space Electronics Market Scope:

Some of the factors driving the growth of the space electronics market include the creation of a communication satellite constellation in low-Earth orbit (LEO), the adoption of space tourism in the next years, and an increase in investments in space companies.

The increased use of satellites for monitoring, real-time imaging, communication, navigation, weather forecasting, broadband and connectivity, research, development, and testing, and Internet of Things integration for various government, commercial, and civil-military domains is changing the space electronics market.

Report Scope:

Report Attribute Details 2030 Market Size 1.6 billion CAGR 5.4% (2021-2030) Base Year 2020 Forecast Period 2021-2030 Historical Data 2019 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Platform, Component, Subsystem, Product, Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America Key Market Drivers Worldwide Launch Vehicle Industry Development.

Competitive Dynamics:

Major players of the Space Electronics Market are mentioned below: -

BAE Systems PLC (UK)

Microsemi Corporation (US)

Texas Instruments (US)

Xilinx Inc. (US)

Cobham PLC (UK)

TT Electronics PLC (UK)

Teledyne e2v (UK)

Heico Corporation (US)

Honeywell International Inc. (US)

ON Semiconductor (US)

ST Microelectronics NV (Switzerland)

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Get Free Sample PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/7584

Market USP:

Market Drivers

Effective material suppliers, electronic component manufacturers, subsystem manufacturers, rocket manufacturers, and space offices or dispatch administration providers make up the manufacturing network of the global space hardware market. The main strategies used by the central sections to gain a competitive advantage on the hunt are the production of low-cost devices, regional expansion, and mergers and acquisitions. The growth of the space electronics market for the upcoming anticipated period is properly enhanced by the rise in demand for space electronics products.

Significant investments in satellite manufacturing and technological advancements in microprocessors and FPGAs are the main market drivers for space electronics. During the anticipated period, these drivers will aid in the market's expansion and growth.

The growth of the space electronics market is influenced by factors such as the enormous demand for satellite assembly, the inventive development of microchips and FPGAs, and the expansion of the launch vehicle sector globally. However, issues like high costs associated with the design and construction of a room and difficulties creating a real testing environment for radiation-solidified technology are impeding the growth of the market as a whole. The development of new and improved technologies in the market for space electronics has caused the CAGR for this industry to increase at an efficient rate over the course of the anticipated period.

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (133 Pages) on Space Electronics Market @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/space-electronics-market-7584

Market Limitations

The space electronics industry's growth and development in the anticipated time period are being hampered by the high costs involved in the design and development of space electronic goods and the difficulties in providing a realistic testing environment for radiation-hardened devices. To assist preserve the market environment, these issues must be adequately addressed.

COVID-19 Analysis:

Lockdowns, travel bans, and company closures related to the COVID-19 have a negative impact on economies and enterprises in various countries. The closure of various plants and industrial facilities has had a negative impact on global supply chains and a positive impact on the production, delivery schedules, and global trade of goods. Few companies have properly predicted anticipated delays in product deliveries and declines in later sales of their products. In addition, the global travel boycotts imposed by countries in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America affect collaborative business initiatives and companies' chances. The Covid-19 problem also has a significant impact on the space electronics industry.

The COVID-19 epidemic has had a negative impact on the production of satellites and spacecraft as a whole, which has then hurt the space electronics market. Due to a significant increase in demand for consumer electronics, there was a global scarcity of semiconductors prior to the pandemic. Chip shortages in industrial manufacturing have already gotten severe due to international trade restrictions and the COVID-19 geopolitical crisis.

Market Segmentation:

By Platform

During the hypothetical time frame, it is anticipated that the satellites segment will continue to represent the largest share of the global space hardware market. In the years to come, the satellites industry is expected to grow as a result of increasing investment from commercial space companies like Space X, OneWeb Satellites, and Sky and Space Global Ltd. as well as the routine launch of more than 4,000 satellites between the years of 2020 and 2025.

By Component Type

The segment for integrated circuits is anticipated to be the largest during the projected time range. The growth of the integrated circuit segment of the global space electronics market is anticipated to occur between 2020 and 2025 as a result of rising demand for compact, lightweight hardware that consumes less power.

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By Product Type

Due to the growing demand for commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, significantly lower launch costs by commercial space organizations, and the growing demand for small satellites, particularly for earth perception, communication, and systems administration applications, the radiation-tolerant portion is likely to experience a higher growth rate during the conjecture time frame.

Regional Analysis:

The North American region is anticipated to maintain its position as the largest market for space hardware among the other regions during the speculative period. Additionally, it is anticipated to have the Market's highest growth rate. The development of the local space electronics industry is being accelerated by NASA's presence in the US, the largest space office on the world, as well as a number of commercial space businesses like Space X. During the forecast period, North America is anticipated to maintain its dominance as the largest market for space electronics and to experience the most growth.

In the upcoming years, Europe and Asia-Pacific are also likely to provide players with worthwhile development chances. In the next years, it is anticipated that India, China, and Russia would be the major growth backers of the market for space electronics. The APAC space hardware market is rising quickly due to the increasing production of satellites, particularly the small moons. The expansion of the space electronics market is supported by the increased participation of countries like China and India in space activities. Mechanical advances for product development in space activities will also ensure significant market growth in the region in the ensuing years.

Discover more research Reports on Aerospace & Defense Industry , by Market Research Future:

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Market Report Information By Type (Fixed Wing, Multi-Rotor), By Application (Commercial, Military), By Component (Airframe, Payload, Guidance Navigation & Control, Propulsion System) - Global Forecast to 2030

Security Robots Market By Type (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, Unmanned Underwater Vehicle, Unmanned Ground Vehicle), By Application (Explosive Detection, Patrolling & Surveillance, Rescue Operations, Firefighting, Others), By Component (Guidance, Navigation and Control System, Propulsion System, Camera System, Frame, Other Payloads) - Forecast till 2027

Drones Market by Type (Fixed-Wing and Multi-Rotor), By Capability (Passenger Drones and Cargo; Drones), By Capacity (Up to 100 kg and Over100 kg),By Application (Agriculture (Field Mapping, Field Mapping, Crop Spraying, Agricultural Photography, Precise Agriculture; Management, Agriculture Insurance; Inspection), Industry (Construction, Oil Gas, Mining, Logistics, Aviation, Telecom)), Component(Airframe, Payload, Guidance Navigation Control, Propulsion System) Forecast 2030

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SUDBURY, ON, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - SPC Nickel Corp. (TSXV: SPC) ("SPC" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of the Company's Annual and Special General Meeting of Shareholders (the "Meeting") held on February 14, 2023.

(CNW Group/SPC Nickel Corp.)

At the Meeting, shareholders re-appointed the following directors Scott McLean, Grant Mourre, William Shaver, Brian Montgomery, Alger St-Jean, Olav Langelaar, and Alistair Ross. In addition, shareholders of the Company re-approved the Company's Omnibus Equity Incentive Compensation Plan, as described in the Management Information Circular dated January 9, 2023, and re-appointed McGovern Hurley LLP as the auditor of the Company for the ensuing fiscal year.

The Company also announces that it has contracted with Oakstrom Advisors to provide comprehensive investor relations and strategic communications services for an initial six-month term which may be extended by mutual agreement, for a monthly fee of $12,500. The Company has had no prior relationship with Oakstrom Advisors and Oakstrom Advisors does currently not own or control, directly or indirectly, any securities of the Company. The arrangement with Oakstrom Advisors is subject to acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange.

Oakstrom Advisors is a leading international consultancy based in Toronto and focused on the delivery of investor relations, strategic communications and capital markets outreach services. Founded in 2014, Oakstrom Advisors has helped clients from a broad cross section of industries navigate the nuances and complexities of capital markets communications by leveraging the collective experience of its seasoned practitioners to provide bespoke solutions for its clients.

The Company also announces that it has entered into an investor relations contract with Raven Waschilowski of Lagace Capital to act as an investor relations representative for the Company. Under the contract the Company will pay Mr. Legace $3,750 per month (on a month to month basis) as consideration for his services. The Company has had no prior relationship with Mr. Waschilowski and Mr. Waschilowski does currently not own or control, directly or indirectly, any securities of the Company. The arrangement with Mr. Waschilowski is subject to acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange.

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Finally, the Company announces that it has issued 1,800,000 stock options to certain employees, officers, and directors of the Company, 800,000 restricted share units ("RSUs") to certain officers and directors of the Company, and 300,000 deferred share units ("DSUs") to directors of the Company. Each stock option entitles the holder to acquire one common share of the Company at an exercise price of 12 cents per share until February 28, 2028. All stock options granted vest immediately. The RSUs vest following the first anniversary of the RSU grant date. The DSUs will not vest until such time as the recipient Director ceases to be a Director of the Company, provided that such date is not within 12 months of the DSU grant date.

About SPC Nickel Corp.

SPC Nickel Corp. is a Canadian public corporation focused on exploring for Ni-Cu-PGMs within the world class Sudbury Mining Camp. The Company is currently exploring its key 100% owned exploration project Lockerby East located in the heart of the historic Sudbury Mining Camp. In addition to the Lockerby East Project, the Company holds three additional projects across Canada including the past producing Aer-Kidd Project (located in the Sudbury Mining Camp), the early staged Janes Project (located 50 km northwest of Sudbury) and the large camp-scale Muskox Project (located in Nunavut). Additional information regarding the Company and its projects can be found at www.spcnickel.com.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Information

Except for statements of historical fact contained herein, the information in this news release constitutes "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities law. Such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "plans", "proposes", "estimates", "intends", "expects", "believes", "may", "will" and include without limitation, statements regarding estimated capital and operating costs, expected production timeline, benefits of updated development plans, foreign exchange assumptions and regulatory approvals. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate; actual results and future events could differ materially from such statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, among others, metal prices, competition, risks inherent in the mining industry, and regulatory risks. Most of these factors are outside the control of the Company. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as otherwise required by applicable securities statutes or regulation, the Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE SPC Nickel Corp.

Cision

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Suncor Energy



Suncor Energy, Monday, February 27, 2023, Press release picture

Mark Boulton, a Specialist Sustainability Advisor at Suncor, attended the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, COP15, held in Montreal, Canada. The convention focused on achieving biodiversity targets and negotiating a global biodiversity framework.

Mark noticed that industries, including Canada's energy sector, are increasingly being seen as a part of the solution to achieve these targets. He observed that industry having a role in achieving biodiversity targets was a consistent theme throughout COP15.

The term "nature positive" was talked about and it got Mark thinking about what it actually means and how can companies like Suncor achieve it. He highlighted the complexity involved in achieving it and the need for a deeper understanding of the term. He also considered the challenges of defining biodiversity, for example, how to define the importance of a caribou compared to a Canadian toad or a fungus that lives within the roots of a tree.

Suncor has made progress in this area and continues to do so as it works with organizations such as the Alberta Conservation Association and as a member of Ipieca. Suncor continues to work on balancing disturbance with reclamation, conservation, and protection.

Read the full story.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Suncor Energy on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Suncor Energy

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/suncor-energy

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Suncor Energy





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/740907/Suncor-Sustainability-Specialist-Shares-His-Experience-From-COP15-the-UN-Convention-on-Biological-Diversity




PITTSFORD, N.Y., Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TUV Rheinland has received accreditation to ISO/IEC 17020:2012 from the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) as part of the INSPECTION BODY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (IBAP) to be an Independent Safety Assessor (ISA) for rail and transit projects in Canada. TUV Rheinland is only the fourth firm to receive such accreditation.

TUV Rheinland receives SCC Accreditation as an ISA for Canada rail projects.

This accreditation allows TUV Rheinland to be able to perform safety assessments on all types of rail and transit projects in the Canadian territories and builds on the work we have been doing in this country.

"This significant addition to our global accreditation portfolio showcases our commitment to our customers, allowing us to provide guidance and technical knowledge to help assure they operate in a safe, sustainable and efficient manner," remarked Jeff Twombly, North American Regional Manager for Rail.

Current customers of our ISA services include the FinchWest LRT, the Hurontario (Hazel McCallion Line) LRT, the Vancouver Broadway Subway project, and the Toronto ONxpress rail development.

"This accreditation, as an ISA for rail and transit projects in Canada, represents a significant milestone in the continued growth of TUV Rheinland's global operation, as it will allow us to extend our leadership in the region in providing Signaling, Rolling Stock and Infrastructure safety assessment services for the benefit of rail projects in Canada. We are proud to have obtained this accreditation and we are eager to generate strategic alliances with the public and private sector in the country," highlighted Kenneth Jackson, Rail Safety Engineer Principal at TUV Rheinland North America.

If you would like to learn more about our services and capabilities for railway safety in North America, visit our website or email us at NorthAmerica-rail@us.tuv.com.

About TUV Rheinland

TUV Rheinland stands for safety and quality in virtually all areas of business and life. The company has been operating for more than 150 years and ranks among the world's leading technical assurance and testing service providers. TUV Rheinland has more than 22,000 employees in over 50 countries and generates annual revenue in excess of 2bn euros. TUV Rheinland's highly qualified experts test technical systems and products around the world, support innovations in technology and business, train people in numerous professions and certify management systems according to international standards. In doing so, our independent experts generate trust in products as well as processes across global value-adding chains and the flow of commodities. Since 2006, TUV Rheinland has been a member of the United Nations Global Compact to promote sustainability and combat corruption. Website: www.tuv.com.

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Contact us for press inquiries:



Joel Pekay

Phone: +1 224 318 4098

Email: Joel.Pekay@us.tuv.com

Mariana Taborda do Amaral

Phone: +55 11 3514 5867

Email: Mariana.Amaral@br.tuv.com

Michael Garcia Carbajal

Phone: +52 55 3488 2108

Email: Michael.Garcia@mex.tuv.com

Cision

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SOURCE TUV Rheinland
Targa Resources Corp.

HOUSTON, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE: TRGP) ("Targa" or the "Company") announced today that representatives from the Company will participate in investor meetings at the Morgan Stanley Global Energy and Power Conference on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 in New York City.



A copy of the slides used for the conference meetings will be available in the Investors section of the Company's website at www.targaresources.com, or by going to https://www.targaresources.com/investors/events.

About Targa Resources Corp.

Targa Resources Corp. is a leading provider of midstream services and is one of the largest independent midstream infrastructure companies in North America. The Company owns, operates, acquires and develops a diversified portfolio of complementary domestic midstream infrastructure assets and its operations are critical to the efficient, safe and reliable delivery of energy across the United States and increasingly to the world. The Companys assets connect natural gas and NGLs to domestic and international markets with growing demand for cleaner fuels and feedstocks. The Company is primarily engaged in the business of: gathering, compressing, treating, processing, transporting, and purchasing and selling natural gas; transporting, storing, fractionating, treating, and purchasing and selling NGLs and NGL products, including services to LPG exporters; and gathering, storing, terminaling, and purchasing and selling crude oil.

Targa is a FORTUNE 500 company and is included in the S&P 500.

For more information, please visit the Companys website at www.targaresources.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions concerning future events and are subject to a number of uncertainties, factors and risks, many of which are outside the Companys control, which could cause results to differ materially from those expected by management of the Company. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, weather, political, economic and market conditions, including a decline in the price and market demand for natural gas, natural gas liquids and crude oil, the impact of pandemics or any other public health crises, commodity price volatility due to ongoing or new global conflicts, actions by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and non-OPEC oil producing countries, the timing and success of business development efforts, and other uncertainties. These and other applicable uncertainties, factors and risks are described more fully in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, and any subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Contact the Company's investor relations department by email at InvestorRelations@targaresources.com or by phone at (713) 584-1133.

Sanjay Lad

Vice President, Finance & Investor Relations

Jennifer Kneale

Chief Financial Officer




FILE PHOTO: A logo of Toronto Dominion Bank (TD) is seen at a branch location in Toronto

By Jonathan Stempel

(Reuters) -Three banks agreed to pay $1.35 billion to resolve litigation by former Allen Stanford investors who accused them of contributing to the imprisoned financier's massive Ponzi scheme.

Canada's Toronto-Dominion Bank will pay $1.205 billion, HSBC Holdings Plc will pay $40 million and Independent Bank Group Inc, formerly Bank of Houston, will pay $100 million.

Money will go to a court-appointed receiver who is repaying victims of Stanford's $7.2 billion fraud, which was uncovered in Feb. 2009, two months after the arrest of Bernard Madoff.

Stanford's Ponzi scheme was at the time considered the largest other than Madoff's.

The settlements require a judge's approval.

They avert a trial that had been scheduled for Monday in Houston federal court, where TD, HSBC and Independent Bank were the last remaining defendants.

Two other defendants, France's Societe Generale SA and Mississippi-based Trustmark Corp, settled for a respective $157 million and $100 million earlier this year.

Once considered a billionaire, Stanford, 72, is serving a 110-year prison sentence after being convicted in 2012 for defrauding about 18,000 investors.

Prosecutors said he sold fraudulent high-yielding certificates of deposit through his Antigua-based Stanford International Bank, and used investor money to make risky investments and fund a lavish lifestyle.

The receiver, Ralph Janvey, has recovered more than $2.7 billion for Stanford's investors.

"Given all the challenges faced by the receivership since 2009, this is nothing short of a monumental recovery," said Kevin Sadler, a Baker Botts partner who represents Janvey and the Official Stanford Investors Committee.

TD denied liability and said it settled to avoid the distraction and risk of further litigation. It will record a C$1.2 billion (US$885 million) first-quarter after-tax charge.

The payout is "far less than the worst-case scenario envisioned by some," and should be "positive for TD's outlook," Barclays analyst John Aiken said in a research note.

HSBC and Independent Bank also denied liability. Independent Bank expects to recognize a $100 million first-quarter expense for its settlement, a regulatory filing shows.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York and Niket Nishant in Bengaluru; editing by Arun Koyyur and Jason Neely)
Fortune Business Insights

Companies Profiled in Telehandler Market are J C Bamford Excavator Ltd. (Rochester, United Kingdom), Caterpillar (Illinois, United States), Doosan Bobcat (Seoul, South Korea), CNH Industrial America LLC (Wisconsin, United States), Manitou BF (Ancenis, France), Terex Corporation (Connecticut, United States), Wacker Neuson SE (Munich, Germany), Liebherr-International Deutschland GmbH (Bulle, Switzerland), Skyjack (Guelph, Canada), HAULOTTE GROUP (L'Horme, France), JLG Industries (Pennsylvania, United States), Komatsu Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan), AB Volvo (Gothenburg, Sweden)

Pune, India, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global telehandler market size was valued at USD 5.87 billion in 2020, it is expected to grow from USD 6.19 billion in 2021 to USD 9.38 billion in 2028, at CAGR of 6.1% in during this period. Telehandler market is set to gain traction from the surging investments by reputed organizations to enhance the high-reach facility and heavy load-bearing capacity of this machinery. In December 2019, JCB, for instance, added three new products in its Telehandlers - the Made in India. They have a lift height of 7-17 meters. This information is given by Fortune Business Insights in a new study, titled, Telehandler Market, 2021-2028.



COVID-19 Pandemic: Halt of Construction Work Affected Growth in Developing Nations



The manufacturing and industrial sectors across the globe were severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Numerous companies, mainly in emerging economies are currently facing challenges, such as halt of construction projects and supply chain disruptions because of stringent lockdown measures. We are providing accurate research reports to help you find a solution to regain your business confidence and generate more sales of Telehandler.

Request free Sample of the Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/telehandler-market-100995

Segmentation-

By type, the market is segmented into high load, high lift, and compact. By technology, it is trifurcated into combustion, electric, and hybrid. Out of these, the hybrid segment earned 27.6% in terms of the telehandler market share in 2020. The electric segment would exhibit the highest CAGR because of the increasing concerns of various environment issues happening worldwide. Hence, people are inclining towards electric vehicles. Based on the lift height, the market is categorized into 5 meters, 5 to 15 meters, and more than 15 meters. In terms of the lift capacity, it is divided into less than 3 tons, 3-10 tons, and more than 10 tons. Lastly, by end-users, it is fragmented into construction, forestry, agriculture, oil & gas, manufacturing, transport & logistics, and power utilities.

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To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market, please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/telehandler-market-100995

Report Coverage-

As customer expectations are changing, the aspirations of dealers are also transforming rapidly. Distribution channels are becoming complex. To provide our clients with detailed information, we have conducted extensive primary and secondary research. We have thoroughly observed each opportunity qualitatively and quantitatively so that our clients get a complete insight of both emerging and existing opportunities. We have also conducted a techno-economic study.

Drivers & Restraints-

Increasing Implementation of Stringent Environment Policies to Boost Growth

Nowadays, electric engines are being rapidly upgraded because of the strict environmental norms implemented by government bodies worldwide. Indias National Clean Air Program (NCAP), for instance, is one such policy that was launched in 2019. It provides in-depth information about the reduction, control, and prevention of air pollution in the country. Besides, electric engines are capable of lowering carbon dioxide at construction sites. These factors are anticipated to bolster the telehandler market growth in the near future. However, the expensive nature of Telehandler is compelling many customers to opt for rental services. It may hinder the demand for telehandlers.

Regional Insights-

Asia Pacific to Remain at the Forefront Backed by Rising Investments in Construction Projects

Asia Pacific : The region generated USD 2.07 billion in terms of revenue in 2020. The region is expected to remain at the forefront because of the increasing investments in construction projects. For instance, Larsen & Turbo declared that in 2017, it initiated new construction projects worth USD 19.12 million. China is considered to be in the second position in terms of the global construction industry.

North America : It would exhibit high CAGR on account of the new entrees of investors in various sectors, such as transport and logistics, agriculture, and power and utilities.

Europe: The region is anticipated to showcase high demand for smaller telehandlers, such as compact wheeled handlers and skid steer handlers in the agricultural sector.

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Competitive Landscape-

Key Players Focus on Developing New Products to Intensify Competition

The global market for telehandlers houses several companies that are presently aiming to construct new facilities and launching novel products to cater to the high demand globally. Some of the others are also trying to gain a competitive edge by partnering up with local firms. Below is one of the most recent industry developments:

July 2019: Doosan Bobcat is set to open its new Global Collaboration Center in Minneapolis. The center will enable teams to work closely by becoming a central meeting location to boost collaboration and innovation.

Fortune Business Insights lists out the names of renowned Telehandler manufacturers operating in the global market:



J.C Bamford Excavator Ltd. (Rochester, United Kingdom)

Caterpillar (Illinois, United States)

Doosan Bobcat (Seoul, South Korea)

CNH Industrial America LLC (Wisconsin, United States)

Manitou BF (Ancenis, France)

Terex Corporation (Connecticut, United States)

Wacker Neuson SE (Munich, Germany)

Liebherr-International Deutschland GmbH (Bulle, Switzerland)

Skyjack (Guelph, Canada)

HAULOTTE GROUP (L'Horme, France)

JLG Industries (Pennsylvania, United States)

Komatsu Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan)

AB Volvo (Gothenburg, Sweden)

Quick Buy - Telehandler Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/100995

Table of Content:

Introduction Definition, By Segment Research Approach Sources

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Emerging Trends of Market

Key Insights Macro and Micro Economic Factors Consolidated SWOT Analysis of Key Players Porters Five Forces Analysis Impact Analysis of COVID 19

Global Telehandler Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Type (Value) Compact High lift High load Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Technology (Value) Hybrid Electric Combustion Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Lift Height (Value) Less than 5 meters 5-15 meters More than 15 meters Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Lift Capacity (Value) Less than 3 tons 3-10 tons More than 10 tons Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By End-User (Value) Construction Forestry Agriculture Oil & Gas Manufacturing Transport & logistics Power utilities Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region (Value) North America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East and Africa Latin America

North America Telehandler Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Type (Value) Compact High lift High load Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Technology (Value) Hybrid Electric Combustion Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Lift Height (Value) Less than 5 meters 5-15 meters More than 15 meters Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Lift Capacity (Value) Less than 3 tons 3-10 tons More than 10 tons Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By End-User (Value) Construction Forestry Agriculture Oil & Gas Manufacturing Transport & logistics Power utilities Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country (Value) U.S Canada

Europe Telehandler Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Type (Value) Compact High lift High load Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Technology (Value) Hybrid Electric Combustion Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Lift Height (Value) Less than 5 meters 5-15 meters More than 15 meters Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Lift Capacity (Value) Less than 3 tons 3-10 tons More than 10 tons Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By End-User (Value) Construction Forestry Agriculture Oil & Gas Manufacturing Transport & logistics Power utilities Others (Routing Tools etc.) Market Sizing Estimations and Forecasts  By Application (Value) DIY Industrial Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country (Value) U.K. Germany Spain France Italy Rest of Europe



TOC Continued.

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CHICAGO, Feb. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Titan International, Inc. (NYSE: TWI) and United Steelworkers (USW) today called for restrictions on downstream products made from Russian petroleum inputs, citing in particular concerns over imports of off-the-road (OTR) tires from India.

United Steelworkers Logo

Paul Reitz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Titan International, stated, "Imports of Indian OTR tires increased by close to 38% in 2022 compared to 2021. India was not among the nations to ban imports of Russian oil products, including the production of the by-product, carbon black, which is a key ingredient the production of OTR tries. It is vital to our industry that we intensify our efforts to bring light to and close loopholes in the issued sanctions to Russia."

Titan and the USW sent the following joint letter to the White House:

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President,

We write on behalf of the domestic industry and its workers producing off-the-road tires (OTR tires) in the United States to alert you to serious concerns about imports of OTR tires from India that are undermining the integrity of our country's ban on imports of petroleum products from the Russian Federation. In order for these vitally important sanctions on Russian oil exports to have their intended effect, we urge you to take action to ensure that downstream products made in third countries from Russian petroleum products  such as OTR tires from India  are also subject to import restrictions.

As background, Titan International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of OTR tires and wheels, which are used on a wide variety of off-the-road equipment, including in agriculture, mining, construction, and industrial applications. Titan operates six manufacturing facilities in the United States, in Des Moines, IA, Freeport, IL, Quincy, IL, Bryan, OH, Union City, TN, and Saltville, VA. Titan's workers are represented by the United Steelworkers union (USW), which, as you are well aware, is the largest industrial union in North America. We believe a thriving domestic OTR tire industry is vital to our ability to equip America's farmers and miners, as well as to support much-needed infrastructure construction and industrial applications. During the pandemic, our industry was deemed an essential industry, and Titan made significant investments to remain in operation and keep its workers safe so it could continue to serve its customers.

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Unfortunately, Titan and the USW have experienced firsthand the injury that unfair foreign trade practices cause to domestic producers and workers. Titan and the USW have fought together for fair trade for many years, and we currently are defending antidumping and countervailing duty orders on OTR tires from India that were imposed in 2017.

In the last year, we have faced a new threat from Indian producers: their ability to leverage access to cheap, sanctioned Russian petroleum products to drive down tire prices and propel injurious exports to the United States. One of the key inputs to the production of OTR tires is carbon black, which is produced by combusting petroleum products. Thus, a country that is able to access plentiful supplies of low-priced oil will have a significant advantage in the market for OTR tires.

While we commend the Administration for bringing many of our allies together to implement bans on imports of Russian oil products similar to the ban we imposed in March of 2022 in response to Russian aggression in Ukraine, we note that India has not joined these efforts. To the contrary, India, the third largest oil importer in the world, has surged into one of Russia's top export destinations for petroleum products.1 In 2022, Russia replaced Iraq as India's top source of oil imports, accounting for a quarter of India's total oil imports.2 By December of 2022, India was importing more than a million barrels a day from Russia, more than any other country (including China).3 Indeed, India's oil imports from Russia in December of 2022 were 33 times higher than they had been a year earlier.4

During the same period in which India has ramped up imports of cheap Russian oil, Indian exports of OTR tires to the United States have grown rapidly. Since the U.S. ban was imposed in March of 2022, average monthly U.S. imports of OTR tires from India have jumped by 37.6 percent compared to the same period in 2021.5 In short, access to plentiful quantities of low-priced Russian oil has artificially lowered the costs of production for our Indian competitors and spurred a harmful flood of OTR tire imports. In our view, this not only directly harms U.S. producers and workers in an essential domestic industry  India's practices also undermine our national security. India's Russian oil imports weaken the effectiveness of the oil import ban and help fund Russia's war against Ukraine.

For all of these reasons, we respectfully request that your Administration consider imposing import restrictions on downstream products made in third countries with Russian petroleum inputs. These restrictions will help level the playing field for domestic producers of such products and their workers, such as Titan and the USW. More importantly, such restrictions will strengthen the integrity of existing sanctions on Russia and ensure the U.S. does not become an unwitting target for oil-dependent foreign goods made in countries that refuse to join the United States in banning Russian oil exports.

We would be pleased to provide further information to your staff and meet with them at their convenience to discuss these important issues.

Sincerely,

______________________________

Paul G. Reitz

CEO & President

Titan International, Inc.

______________________________

Thomas M. Conway

International President

United Steelworkers

About Titan : Titan International, Inc. (NYSE: TWI) is a leading global manufacturer of off-highway wheels, tires, assemblies, and undercarriage products. Headquartered in West Chicago, Illinois, the company globally produces a broad range of products to meet the specifications of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and aftermarket customers in the agricultural, earthmoving/construction, and consumer markets. For more information, visit www.titan-intl.com.

1 See "India's Russian oil imports highest ever, makes up for 25% of all oil import," Hindustan Times (Jan. 15, 2023).

2 See id.

3 See Charles Kennedy, "India's Oil Imports From Russia Jump 33 Times To Record High," OilPrice.com (Jan. 16, 2023).

4 See id.

5 U.S. imports for consumption of OTR tires from India, comparing imports from April through December of 2022 to the same period in 2021 under HTS 4011.20.1025, 4011.20.1035, 4011.20.5030, 4011.20.5050, 4011.61.0000, 4011.62.0000, 4011.63.0000, 4011.69.0090, 4011.92.0000, 4011.93.4000, 4011.93.8000, 4011.94.4000, and 4011.94.8000.

Titan International, Inc. logo. (PRNewsFoto/Titan International)

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/titan-international-and-usw-call-for-restrictions-on-products-made-from-russian-petroleum-inputs-301756487.html

SOURCE Titan International, Inc.
CALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / February 27, 2023 / Touchstone Exploration Inc. ("Touchstone", "we", "our", "us" or the "Company") (TSX:TXP)(LSE:TXP) reports that on February 24, 2023, the Company was notified by The National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited ("NGC") that they expect to be ready to receive first gas from the Cascadura natural gas and associated liquids facility on or about June 30, 2023.

Touchstone remains on track to complete the Cascadura facility prior to this date to ensure production can commence as soon as NGC is in a position to receive first gas. The approximate construction status of the Cascadura facility is as follows:

the civil and concrete foundation work for the main process facility equipment is complete;

the flare stack is procured, with the associated foundation work commencing imminently;

the communication tower is approximately 80 percent complete;

the pipe racks are approximately 90 percent assembled with hydrotesting initiated, and the units are expected to arrive at the facility within the next three weeks;

on-site condensate tanks are approximately 65 percent complete;

the compressors, separators, and vapour recovery units have been safely transported to the facility; and

all process equipment for the facility has been acquired.

Paul Baay, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented:

"We are encouraged to have received an expected first gas date from NGC. Although this is later than we were anticipating, we can now plan the final phase of our various work streams to minimize costs and optimize services.

First gas from Cascadura will be a transformative achievement for Touchstone, and we thank shareholders for their continued support and patience as we work towards this significant milestone.

We expect that the funds raised late last year and our current base production will allow us to complete drilling the Royston-1X well and prepare our next development locations at Cascadura while we finalize construction of the Cascadura facility."

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Touchstone Exploration Inc.

Touchstone Exploration Inc. is a Calgary, Alberta based company engaged in the business of acquiring interests in petroleum and natural gas rights and the exploration, development, production and sale of petroleum and natural gas. Touchstone is currently active in onshore properties located in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The Company's common shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange under the symbol "TXP".

For further information about Touchstone, please visit our website at www.touchstoneexploration.com or contact:

Mr. Paul Baay, President and Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Brian Hollingshead, VP Engineering and Business Development

Telephone: 403.750.4487

Forward-looking Statements

Certain information provided in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements and information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, forecasts, estimates, expectations and objectives for future operations that are subject to assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or are events or conditions that "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking statements in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the Company's capital plans and strategies, including Cascadura facility construction operations and the expected timing of completion and initial production, and the Company's current and future financial position including the sufficiency of resources to fund future capital expenditures and maintain financial liquidity. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Certain of these risks are set out in more detail in the Company's 2021 Annual Information Form dated March 25, 2022 which is available under the Company's profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and on the Company's website (www.touchstoneexploration.com). The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof, and except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company assumes no obligation or intent to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements made herein or otherwise, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

SOURCE: Touchstone Exploration, Inc.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/740848/Touchstone-Provides-Cascadura-Facility-Update




Company Logo

Dublin, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Turkey Data Center Market By Solution (IT Infrastructure, General Infrastructure, Electrical Infrastructure, Mechanical Infrastructure and Other Infrastructure), By Type (Corporate and Web Hosting), By End User Industry, By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



Turkey data center market is anticipated to grow at a steady CAGR in the forecast period, 2023-2027

The primary drivers for the Turkey data center market are the shift from the on-premises model to the cloud and colocation facilities and the digitization of the prominent industry verticals.

Turkey's strong economic position and favorable geographical location, along with cultural ties with the Middle East and European countries, are expected to bring more businesses to set up their facilities in Turkey.

Also, the booming IT industry and the growing awareness about the effective utilization of data for business growth are expected to boost the growth of Turkey data center market over the next five years.



Advantages of Setting up Data Center Facilities Drives the Market Growth



Organizations are constantly looking for solutions to lower operational and maintenance costs. Datacenter servers, racks, power tariffs, and HVAC systems increase the operational costs for an organization. Organizations have started to prefer to avail the services of data centers instead of investing in capital and power.

Turkey data center is emerging, and with the rise in the organizations who prefer to opt for data centers acts as a positive factor for the market. Data centers spend a significant amount of their money setting up the data center infrastructure and installing power systems.

By availing of data center services, organizations can focus on methods to increase the workplace's productivity. Data centers improve redundancy and flexibility, streamline critical infrastructure, and utilize IT sources more effectively. It can help the firm achieve higher energy efficiencies and provide enhanced security to an organization's sensitive information.

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The advantages and cost-effectiveness of the data center are expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for the Turkey data center in the forecast period.



Favorable Government Policies Support the High Market Growth



The government is investing hefty amounts in the development of top-class infrastructure to make it capable of handling cloud architecture and IoT and Big Data applications.

The concerned authorities in Turkey have launched an initiative to develop the data center sector in which they offered a reduction of 30 percent in energy bills for up to 10 years. The condition on which the offer was based on that the future projects should meet the minimum requirement of 5,000 sq m of white space and must be designed according to Tier III level standards.

The government is also providing sales tax incentives based on economic development and operations of the data center facility. Free Zones are developed to attract investments with several tax incentives. The advantages of the free zone are 100% exemption from customs and other assorted duties and stamp duty for applicable documents.

Organized Industrial Zones are designed to provide a friendly working environment with ready-to-use infrastructure and social facilities. World Bank has launched a project which will aid Organized Industrial Zones to become more technologically advanced and efficient by working on the infrastructure development of these zones.

Turkey has 346 Organized Industrial Zones across 81 countries expected to attract data center operators to set up their facilities in Turkey. Technology Development Zones (TDZ) are the areas that are designed to attract high-end investments in high-technology fields and support research and development activities. There are 84 Technology Development Zones in Turkey, out of which 63 are operational, and the rest are under construction.

Competitive Landscape



Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in Turkey data center market.

Sparkle

Equinix

Telehouse Istanbul

Amazon Web Services

Turkcell

Vodafone

Turk Telekom

Teknotel Telekom

IBM Corporation

Huawei Technologies

Report Scope:



Turkey Data Center Market, By Solution:

IT Infrastructure

General Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

Other Infrastructure

Turkey Data Center Market, By Type:

Corporate

Web Hosting

Turkey Data Center Market, By End User Industry:

IT & Telecom

Government

BFSI

Healthcare

Others

Turkey Data Center Market, By Region:

Marmara Region

Central Anatolia

Aegean Region

Mediterranean Region

Black Sea Region

South-Eastern Anatolia Region

Eastern Anatolia Region

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/j2xnw5-data?w=12

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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




SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

SkyQuest's vacuum-assisted breast biopsy device market report provides valuable insights to help stakeholders make informed decisions about investment opportunities, product development, and industry trends. This comprehensive report offers a global market assessment that accurately evaluates the market's size, growth potential, and prospects. By understanding the current state of the market and future growth projections, investors can make informed decisions about where to allocate their resources to achieve maximum returns.

Westford USA, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The vacuum-assisted breast biopsy device market has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with North America taking a major lead, followed by the Asia Pacific region. The high growth can be attributed to the growing prevalence of breast cancer and the increasing advancements in medical devices. In addition, governments worldwide are making efforts to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer, which is positively impacting the market. Moreover, a well-established healthcare system, high awareness about breast cancer, and strong R&D investments in medical devices further support the market growth.

Breast cancer is a major health concern worldwide, with a high incidence and mortality rate. According to SkyQuest, there were over 2.2 million breast cancer cases in 2020 and over 680,700 deaths due to the disease. These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective detection and treatment of breast cancer. Vacuum-assisted breast biopsy devices have become increasingly crucial in the fight against breast cancer. These devices enable doctors to obtain tissue samples from suspicious breast lesions, which can then be examined for the presence of cancer cells.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy Device Market"

Pages - 286

Tables - 146

Figures - 68

Biopsy devices are medical tools used to remove a sample of tissue or cells from the body for further analysis in the laboratory. These devices are critical for the diagnosis of various diseases, including cancer. Vacuum-assisted biopsy is a device that provides a minimally invasive method for extracting multiple tissue samples.

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Prominent Players in Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy Device Market

BD (US)

Olympus Corporation (Japan)

Medtronic (Ireland)

Devicor Medical Products, Inc. (US)

Fujifilm (Japan)

Cook (US)

Cardinal Health. (US)

B. Braun Melsungen AG (Germany)

ARGON MEDICAL. (US)

C. R. Bard, Inc. (US)

Boston Scientific Corporation (US)

INRAD Inc. (US)

Hologic, Inc. (US)

Scion Medical Technologies LLC. (US)

Get a sample copy of this report:

https://skyquestt.com/sample-request/vacuum-assisted-breast-biopsy-device-market

Vacuum-Assisted Biopsy Needles Segment to Drive Traction owing to Greater Assistance of Needles during Breast Biopsy Procedures

The vacuum-assisted breast biopsy device market has grown significantly in recent years, with the vacuum-assisted biopsy needles segment dominating the market. According to market reports, the vacuum-assisted biopsy needles segment was valued at USD 142.47 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 197.66 million by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.2%. One of the primary drivers is the rising prevalence of breast cancer, which has led to an increased demand for breast biopsy procedures. In addition, vacuum-assisted biopsy needles offer a minimally invasive approach to breast biopsy procedures, making them a popular choice among patients and healthcare providers.

According to market research, the North American region is currently leading the global vacuum-assisted breast biopsy device market and is expected to maintain its dominant position from 2022 to 2028. The market in North America is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.4% over the forecast period. Among the countries in the region, the United States is expected to exhibit the highest growth rate, followed by Canada. Furthermore, the availability of advanced healthcare infrastructure and favorable reimbursement policies in North America is projected to propel market growth in the region.

Browse summary of the report and Complete Table of Contents (ToC):

https://skyquestt.com/report/vacuum-assisted-breast-biopsy-device-market

Hospital Segment to Register Largest Revenue Share as a Result of Increasing Hospital Admission Related to Breast Cancer

The global vacuum-assisted breast biopsy device market has grown significantly in recent years, with the hospital segment leading the way. In 2021, this segment dominated the market, accounting for a substantial share of the total market value. It is expected to continue its dominance throughout the forecast period, with a projected value of USD 207.91 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.3%. As a result, more and more patients are seeking medical attention and undergoing diagnostic procedures. Hospitals are well-equipped to handle the increasing patient volume and perform in-house diagnostic procedures, which further contributes to the growth of this segment.

The Asia Pacific region is experiencing the fastest-growing market in various industries, including healthcare. Unfortunately, there has also been a significant increase in breast cancer cases in many Asian countries over the past few decades. According to SkyQuest, a market research firm, breast cancer mortality rates among Asian women have risen due to various risk factors such as delayed childbirth and increased obesity. Another contributing factor to the rise in breast cancer cases in Asia is the increase in obesity rates. Many Asian countries have experienced a significant increase in obesity over the past few decades, linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.

The vacuum-assisted breast biopsy device market has seen significant growth in recent years, becoming a thriving industry with a strong presence in the medical sector. SkyQuest's comprehensive research report sheds light on the market's growth, highlighting its expansion in terms of size, share, and key players.

Speak to Analyst for your custom requirements:

https://skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/vacuum-assisted-breast-biopsy-device-market

Key Developments in Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy Device Market

Devicor Medical, a startup company, has recently acquired Johnson & Johnson's breast care unit strategically to expand its product portfolio. This acquisition includes transferring all the assets, intellectual property, and employees of Johnson & Johnson's breast care unit to Devicor Medical. In addition to the breast care unit, Devicor also acquired the marketing and distribution rights for gamma detection systems made by Neoprobe Corp., based in Dublin, Ohio. This will provide Devicor with a strong foothold in the rapidly growing gamma detection market, which is used in diagnosing and treating breast cancer.

IZI Medical Products, LLC has recently introduced a groundbreaking technology for soft tissue biopsy called The Quick-Core Auto Biopsy System, or simply Quick-Core Auto. This fully automatic biopsy tool offers exceptional precision, dependability, and quality, much like IZI's Quick-Core semi-automatic biopsy system. The Quick-Core Auto is a lightweight and efficient tool that makes it easier for healthcare professionals to perform biopsies accurately and quickly, with minimal discomfort to the patient.

Guardant Health has received the green light from the US FDA to utilize its Guardant360CDx liquid biopsy test as a companion diagnostic (CDx) for ORSERDU (elacestrant). This significant milestone means that the Guardant360CDx test can now be used as a CDx for advanced or metastatic breast cancer patients with ESR1 mutations, likely to benefit from treatment with ORSERDU. The Guardant360CDx test is a non-invasive liquid biopsy test that uses a simple blood sample to detect cancer-related genomic alterations.

Key Questions Answered in Vacuum-Assisted Breast Biopsy Device Market Report

What key factors should market players consider when tailoring their marketing strategies to target specific markets?

Based on current trends and market data, which segments and regions are projected to experience the most growth during the forecast period?

How can market research help companies stay ahead of emerging trends and identify new opportunities in their industry?

What major steps can companies take to prepare for unexpected challenges and disruptions in their industry?

Related Reports in SkyQuests Library:

Global Healthcare Data Interchange (EDI) Market

Global E-Prescription Market

Global Next-Generation Sequencing Services Market

Global Smart Pills Technology Market

Global Cancer Immunotherapy Market

About Us:

SkyQuest Technology is leading growth consulting firm providing market intelligence, commercialization and technology services. It has 450+ happy clients globally.

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Wallbridge Mining Company Limited

TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wallbridge Mining Company Limited (TSX:WM, OTCQX:WLBMF) (Wallbridge or the Company) is pleased to announce that it has completed a non-brokered private placement of 37,956,353 national flow-through common shares (the National FT Shares) and 8,000,000 Quebec flow-through common shares (the Quebec FT Shares) for aggregate gross proceeds of $8,621,925 (the FT Share Private Placement). The National FT Shares were issued at a price of $0.185 and the Quebec FT Shares were issued at a price of $0.20.



In addition, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (Agnico) has elected to subscribe for 6,000,000 common shares for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,020,000 (the AEM Private Placement, and together with the FT Share Private Placement, the Private Placements). Subject to negotiation of the definitive agreement and other customary closing conditions, the AEM Private Placement is expected to close on or about March 10, 2023 and will be undertaken pursuant to certain participation rights set out in a pre-existing participation agreement between the Company and a predecessor of Agnico. The AEM Shares will be issued at a price of $0.17.

In connection with the FT Share Private Placement, the Company paid a cash finders fee of 4% . All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placements will have a four month and one day statutory hold period. The offering is subject to the final acceptance of the Toronto Stock Exchange (the Exchange).

The net proceeds from the Private Placements will be used to support the Companys 2023 exploration program at the Companys Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property. The financings announced today provide the Company with sufficient cash reserves to fund the previously announced 2023 exploration program on the Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property.

Each National FT Share and Quebec FT Share (the FT Shares) will qualify as a flow-through share within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and, in respect of eligible Quebec resident subscribers, section 359.1 of the Taxation Act (Quebec). The FT Shares will be renounced with an effective date no later than December 31, 2023 to the initial purchasers of the FT Shares in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised.

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None of the securities offered in the Private Placements have been registered under the U.S. 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 press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

The FT Share Private Placement constituted a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101) as certain insiders of the Company subscribed for 1,391,541 in aggregate of National FT Shares and 250,000 in aggregate of Quebec FT Shares. The Company is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the participation in the FT Share Private Placement by the insiders does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Company in accordance with MI 61-101. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the related party transaction at least 21 days before the closing of the FT Share Private Placement, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances in order to price and close the FT Share Private Placement in an expeditious manner. A material change report will be filed under the Companys profile at www.sedar.com, which may be sent to any shareholder upon request.

About Wallbridge Mining

Wallbridge is focused on creating value through the exploration and sustainable development of gold projects along the Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend while respecting the environment and communities where it operates.

Wallbridges flagship project, Fenelon Gold (Fenelon), is located on the highly prospective Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property in Quebecs Northern Abitibi region. An updated mineral resource estimate completed in January 2023 yielded significantly improved grades and additional ounces at the 100%-owned Fenelon and Martiniere properties, incorporating a combined 3.05 million ounces of Indicated gold resources and 2.35 million ounces of Inferred gold resources. Fenelon and Martiniere are located within an approximate 830 km2 exploration land package controlled by Wallbridge. The Company believes that these two deposits have good potential for economic development, especially given their proximity to existing hydro-electric power and transportation infrastructure. In addition, Wallbridge believes that the extensive land package is extremely prospective for the discovery of additional gold deposits.

Wallbridge also holds a 19.9% interest in the common shares of Archer Exploration Corp. (Archer) as a result of the sale of the Companys portfolio of nickel assets in Ontario and Quebec in November of 2022.

Wallbridge will continue to focus on its core Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property while enabling shareholders to participate in the potential economic upside in Archer.

For further information please visit the Companys website at www.wallbridgemining.com or contact:

Wallbridge Mining Company Limited

Marz Kord, P. Eng., M. Sc., MBA

President & CEO

Tel: (705) 6829297 ext. 251

Email: mkord@wallbridgemining.com

Victoria Vargas, B.Sc. (Hon.) Economics, MBA

Investor Relations Advisor

Email: vvargas@wallbridgemining.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements or information (collectively, FLI) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. FLI is based on expectations, estimates, projections, and interpretations as at the date of this press release.

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are FLI that involve various risks, assumptions, estimates and uncertainties. Generally, FLI can be identified by the use of statements that include words such as seeks, believes, anticipates, plans, continues, budget, scheduled, estimates, expects, forecasts, intends, projects, predicts, proposes, potential, targets and variations of such words and phrases, or by statements that certain actions, events or results may, will, could, would, should or might, be taken, occur or be achieved.

FLI herein includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding: the use of proceeds of the Private Placements; the tax treatment of the securities issued under the FT Share Private Placement under the Income Tax Act (Canada); the timing to renounce all qualifying expenditures in favour of the subscribers (if at all); the future prospects of Wallbridge; historical trends; current conditions and expected future developments; future drill results; the Companys ability to convert inferred resources into measured and indicated resources; environmental matters; stakeholder engagement and relationships; parameters and methods used to estimate the mineral resource estimates (each an MRE) at the Fenelon and Martiniere properties (collectively the Deposits); the prospects, if any, of the Deposits; future drilling at the Deposits; and the significance of historic exploration activities and results.

FLI is designed to help you understand managements current views of its near- and longer-term prospects, and it may not be appropriate for other purposes. FLI 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 FLI. Although the FLI contained in this press release is based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders and prospective purchasers of securities of the Company that actual results will be consistent with such FLI, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and neither the Company nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such FLI. Except as required by law, the Company does not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such FLI contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law. Unless otherwise noted, this press release has been prepared based on information available as of the date of this press release. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on the FLI or information contained herein.

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 FLI.

Assumptions upon which FLI is based, without limitation, include the results of exploration activities; the Companys financial position and general economic conditions; the ability of exploration activities to accurately predict mineralization; the accuracy of geological modelling; the ability of the Company to complete further exploration activities; the legitimacy of title and property interests in the Deposits; the accuracy of key assumptions, parameters or methods used to estimate the MREs; the ability of the Company to obtain required governmental, regulatory, environmental or other required approvals; the evolution of the global economic climate; metal prices; environmental expectations; community and non-governmental actions; any impacts of COVID-19 on the Deposits; and, the Companys ability to secure required funding. Risks and uncertainties about Wallbridge's business are more fully discussed in the disclosure materials filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada, which are available at www.sedar.com.

Information Concerning Estimates of Mineral Resources

The disclosure in this press release and referred to herein was prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 which differs significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). The terms measured mineral resource, indicated mineral resource and inferred mineral resource used in this press release are in reference to the mining terms defined in the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Standards (the CIM Definition Standards), which definitions have been adopted by NI 43-101. Accordingly, information contained in this press release providing descriptions of our mineral deposits in accordance with NI 43-101 may not be comparable to similar information made public by other U.S. companies subject to the United States federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder.

Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of mineral resources will ever be converted into reserves. Pursuant to CIM Definition Standards, inferred mineral resources are that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality are estimated on the basis of limited geological evidence and sampling. Such geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological and grade or quality continuity. An inferred mineral resource has a lower level of confidence than that applying to an indicated mineral resource and must not be converted to a mineral reserve. However, it is reasonably expected that the majority of inferred mineral resources could be upgraded to indicated mineral resources with continued exploration. Under Canadian rules, estimates of inferred mineral resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, except in rare cases. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an inferred mineral resource is economically or legally mineable. Disclosure of contained ounces in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute reserves by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade without reference to unit measures.

Canadian standards, including the CIM Definition Standards and NI 43-101, differ significantly from standards in the SEC Industry Guide 7. Effective February 25, 2019, the SEC adopted new mining disclosure rules under subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the SEC Modernization Rules), with compliance required for the first fiscal year beginning on or after January 1, 2021. The SEC Modernization Rules replace the historical property disclosure requirements included in SEC Industry Guide 7. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, the SEC now recognizes estimates of measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources. Information regarding mineral resources contained or referenced in this press release may not be comparable to similar information made public by companies that report according to U.S. standards. While the SEC Modernization Rules are purported to be substantially similar to the CIM Definition Standards, readers are cautioned that there are differences between the SEC Modernization Rules and the CIM Definitions Standards. Accordingly, there is no assurance any mineral resources that the Company may report as measured mineral resources, indicated mineral resources and inferred mineral resources under NI 43-101 would be the same had the Company prepared the resource estimates under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules.

The technical content of this release has been compiled, reviewed and approved by Francois Chabot, Eng, Technical Studies Manager of the Company and a "Qualified Person" as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.




TORONTO, Feb. 27, 2023 /CNW/ - After a two year absence during the pandemic, WBE Canada is excited to be hosting its much anticipated and highly regarded Breakfast with Brands Cross Border Connection event March 21st at this year's WBENC National Conference being held March 21-23rd in Nashville, TN.

Silvia Pencak, President and CEO of WBE Canada (CNW Group/WBE Canada)

Breakfast With Brands events are designed to be educational and informative, providing greater access to procurement networks for women-owned businesses looking to succeed in corporate supply chains. This year's event will bring together Canadian women-owned businesses attending WBENC and corporate organizations from both Canada and the US.

Sponsored by Trade Commissioner Service, Global Affairs Canada, WBE Canada's Breakfast with Brands Cross Border Connection will highlight the benefits of certification and the opportunities that are open to Canadian WBEs in the highly anticipated and international setting of WBENC's annual conference. During the event, certified women suppliers will also have the opportunity to engage in one-on-one meetings with corporate buyers to build strategic business partnerships and develop business relationships in the US.

A truly unique Canadian kick-off to the 2023 WBENC National Conference, Breakfast with Brands Cross Border Connection takes place at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Centre, Monday March 21st 8:00-10:30 am CDT.

Participating Corporations: Accenture, AON, BASF, GM, Magna, Merck, RBC, Sanofi, Sony, UPS and more to be confirmed

Event Benefits

Build meaningful relationships with purchasing representatives and women-owned businesses

Experience the impressive network of corporations and organizations that partner with WBE Canada

Meet one-on-one with corporate buyers during "Meet the Buyer" roundtables

Complete six months of sales prospecting in one day

Who Should Attend

WBE Canada Certified Women-Owned Businesses

Supplier diversity and purchasing representatives of corporations and government entities looking to diversity their supply chain and buy from Canadian women-owned businesses

WBE Canada's Partner organizations

Women who are interested in strategic business partnerships and developing professional business relationships in the US

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About WBE Canada

Women Business Enterprises Canada Council (WBE Canada) is a Canadian non-profit organization working closely with corporations and government organizations advocating for inclusion of Canadian Women Business Enterprises (WBEs) in supply chains across Canada and abroad. To ensure diversity in supply chains WBE Canada works closely with its Corporate and Government members to provide necessary training and support to help establish and develop supplier diversity initiatives. Explore our Corporate/Government membership here .

WBE Canada Logo (CNW Group/WBE Canada)

SOURCE WBE Canada

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/February2023/27/c5505.html
MAXIMIZE MARKET RESEARCH PRIVATE LIMITED

Yachts Charter Market size was valued at US$ 16.7 Bn. in 2021 and the total revenue is expected to grow at 5.5% (CAGR) through 2022 to 2029, reaching US$ 25.63 Bn.

Pune, Feb. 27, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Automotive and Transportation business-consulting firm, Maximize Market research, has published a market intelligence report on the  Yachts Charter Market . The report is a combination of primary data and secondary data with quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods. Over the forecast period, Maximize Market research expects the market to grow from USD 16.7 Bn in 2021 to USD 25.63 Bn in 2029 at a CAGR of 5.5 percent. As per the report, the North America region is expected to dominate the global Yachts Charter Market during the forecast period.



Yachts Charter Market Report Scope

Market Size in 2021 USD 16.7 Bn. Market Size in 2029 USD 25.63 Bn. CAGR 5.5 percent (2022-2029) Forecast Period 2022-2029 Base Year 2021 Number of Pages 296 No. of Tables 118 No. of Charts and Figures 116 Segment Covered Yacht Type, Yacht Size and Consumer Type Regional Scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, South America Report Coverage Market Share, Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20222029, Market Dynamics, Growth Drivers, Restraints, Investment Opportunities, and Key Trends, Competitive Landscape, Key Players Benchmarking, Competitive Analysis, MMR Competition Matrix, Competitive Leadership Mapping, Global Key Players Market Ranking Analysis.

Request For Free Sample Report: https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/21777

The Yachts Charter Market is majorly driven by the growing marine tourism sector

The demand for yacht charters is increasing due to the rising participation of the masses in recreational and competitive boating activities across the world. The Yachts Charter Market is also positively impacted by the rising per capita income levels and the increasing inclination towards luxury trips across exotic locations. The other factors that are driving the Yachts Charter Market are the increasing use of renewable energy as a primary fuel in various marine vehicles because of the enhanced focus on sustainable development among the masses and the increasing popularity of water sports. The yacht charter service providers are using online mediums to showcase their offerings. The increasing number and range of yachts available for booking, and collaboration between major travel agencies and yacht companies are also the major factors driving the Yachts Charter Market growth over the forecast period.

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During the forecast period, the North America region is expected to dominate the global Yachts Charter Market

The Yachts Charter Market in the North American region is growing due to the presence of a diverse coastline with a plethora of cruising places. One of the main reasons behind the growth of the Yachts Charter Market is the numerous tourist destinations in the region. The European region is also expected to witness growth at a fast rate during the forecast period. This growth of the region is mainly attributed to the increasing number of high-net-worth individuals and the increasing popularity of water adventure and fishing activities.

Get a Sample Copy of the Report: https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/21777

Yachts Charter Market Segmentation

By Yacht Type

Sailing Yachts

Motor Yachts

Catamaran Yacht



By Yacht Size

Small

Medium

Large



By Consumer Type

Corporate

Retail

Other





Based on Yacht Type, the motor yacht held the largest share of the Yachts Charter Market in 2021. Based on Yacht Size, the small yacht size segment is expected to hold the major share of the market. Based on Consumer Type, the retail segment is expected to hold the largest portion of the global Yachts Charter Market.

Get a Sample PDF Brochure: https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/21777

Yachts Charter Market Key Competitors include:

Boat International Media Ltd. (UK)

Charter Yachts Australia (Australia)

CharterWorld LLP (UK)

Dream Yacht Charter (US)

Fairline Yacht (UK)

Fraser Yachts (Sydney)

Inter Yacht Charter (UK)

Martello Yachting and Company (Netherlands)

Nicholson Yachts (US)

Northrop & Johnson (US)

Simpson Marine Limited (Hong Kong)

Super Yacht Logistics, LLC (Japan)

Thai Charters (Thailand)

West Coast Marine Yacht Services Pvt Ltd. (India)

Yacht Charter Fleet (UK)

Yachtico, Inc. (US)

Zizooboats GmbH (Germany)

Burger Boat Company (US)

Catamaran Guru (US)

Dream Marine Limited (Republic of Korea)

Fipa Group Srl. (Italy)

Grand Yachts, Inc. (Canada)

Horizon Yatch Company (US)

Jokai Marive International, Inc. (Philippines)

KingShip Marine Ltd. (Hong Kong)

Maxi Dolphin Srl (Italy)

Oceanco (Netherlands)

OnBoat Inc. (US)

Key questions answered in the Yachts Charter Market are:

What is the Yacht Charter?

What is the CAGR of the Yachts Charter Market?

What is the Yachts Charter Market size?

How is the global Yachts Charter Market expected to perform during the forecast period?

What are the segments into which the Yachts Charter Market has been divided?

What are the global trends in the Yachts Charter Market?

What are the upcoming industry applications and trends for the Yachts Charter Market?

What are the factors contributing to the final price of Yacht's Charter?

What are the recent industry trends that can be implemented to generate additional revenue streams for the Yachts Charter Market?

How is the intervention from the regulatory authority shaping the Yachts Charter Market?

What growth strategies are the players considering to increase their presence in Aesthetic Medical Devices?

Who are the leading companies and what are their portfolios in the Yachts Charter Market?

What are the major challenges that the Yachts Charter Market could face in the future?

Who held the largest market share in the Yachts Charter Market?

Key Offerings:

Past Size and Competitive Landscape (2018 to 2021)

Past Pricing and price curve by region (2018 to 2021)

Yachts Charter Market Size, Share, Size & Forecast by different segment | 20222029

Yachts Charter Market Dynamics  Growth Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities, and Key Trends by region

Yachts Charter Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Yacht Type, Yacht Size, Consumer Type and Region

Competitive Landscape  Profiles of selected key players by region in a strategic perspective Competitive landscape  Market Leaders, Market Followers, Regional player Competitive benchmarking of key players by region

PESTLE Analysis

PORTERs analysis

Value chain and supply chain analysis

Legal Aspects of business by region

Lucrative business opportunities with SWOT analysis

Recommendations

Maximize Market Research is leading Automotive and Transportation research firm, has also published the following reports:

Yacht Market - The market size is expected to reach USD 16.4 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 6.58 percent during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by factors such as the increasing number of private islands on cruise itineraries, the increasing number of high-net-worth individuals and the use of alternative energy sources.

Water Taxi Market - The market size is expected to reach USD 612.18 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 4.05 percent during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by the increasing disposable income, which supports a variety of leisure activities, as well as increasing travel costs for leisure.

Sailboat Market - The market size is expected to reach USD 7.11 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 2.85 percent during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by increased spending on research and development activities.

Marine Cranes Market - The market size is expected to reach USD 10.48 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 15.59 percent during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by the increasing offshore exploration activities and production activities.

Boat Rental Market - The market size is expected to reach USD 29.67 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 6.12 percent during the forecast period. The market is expected to be driven by the increasing consumer involvement in competitive and recreational boating activities with the accessibility and connection with boat owners.

About Maximize Market Research:

Maximize Market Research is a multifaceted market research and consulting company with professionals from several industries. Some of the industries we cover include medical devices, pharmaceutical manufacturers, science and engineering, electronic components, industrial equipment, technology and communication, cars and automobiles, chemical products and substances, general merchandise, beverages, personal care, and automated systems. To mention a few, we provide market-verified industry estimations, technical trend analysis, crucial market research, strategic advice, competition analysis, production and demand analysis, and client impact studies.

CONTACT: Contact Maximize Market Research: 3rd Floor, Navale IT Park, Phase 2 Pune Banglore Highway, Narhe, Pune, Maharashtra 411041, India sales@maximizemarketresearch.com +91 96071 95908, +91 9607365656




FILE PHOTO: US Treasury Secretary Yellen speaks during her roundtable with India's technology leaders on outskirts of Bengaluru

By David Lawder

(Reuters) -U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Monday that Russia should bear the costs of damage caused by its invasion of Ukraine, but there are "significant legal obstacles" to confiscating major frozen Russian assets.

Yellen, speaking to reporters by phone during a surprise trip to Kyiv, said the the United States would study Ukraine's calls to impose sanctions on Russia's nuclear energy sector, but needed to be "mindful" of potential consequences of such an action on Western allies.

Yellen said the United States and its allies were discussing strategies to ensure that Russia pays for the devastation that its war, now in its second year, with estimates in the hundreds of billions of dollars and growing every day.

Washington has confiscated assets used in criminal activity but central bank and other large pools of assets frozen by sanctions are another matter.

"We have on this small scale, seized assets, but there are certainly legal challenges in doing more than that," she said.

The United States and Western allies have seized more than $300 billion in Russian central bank foreign currency assets frozen by sanctions. The assets are held abroad, with a significant portion at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, but remain under Russian ownership.

Some European officials have called for their full seizure and Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said he and Yellen had discussed the issue earlier on Monday.

RUSSIAN URANIUM

Russia's nuclear energy sector has thus far escaped several rounds of sanctions, partly because a number of countries, including France, rely on Russia's Rosatom for uranium supplies.

"We want to deprive Russia of revenue. We also need to look at potential consequences of the sanctions for ourselves and our partners," Yellen told reporters.

She also repeated that the United States has warned China of "really severe consequences" should the Beijing government, Chinese firms or financial institutions provide material support to Russia's war effort or help Moscow evade U.S. sanctions.

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"It's something we wouldn't tolerate," she added.

Asked about what assurances she received that Ukraine is responsibly using over $14 billion of direct U.S. economic and budget aid, Yellen said there were strong controls over funds distributed via the World Bank, but it was important for Ukraine to continue its anti-corruption and governance efforts.

"(Ukrainian) President (Volodymyr) Zelenskiy is committed to addressing it and is in the process of putting in place for example, independently appointed directors in some of the largest state-owned firms," she said.

(Reporting by David Lawder, additional reporting by Rod Nickel; Editing by Mike Collett-White)
Update: 11:31 a.m. All lanes are open.

Update: 11:01 a.m. The left and center lanes of northbound Interstate 95 in Massaponax are now open.

Traffic is backed up for three miles in and being detoured off of northbound Interstate 95 in the Massaponax area of Spotsylvania County. A crashed tractor-trailer is blocking the lanes near the U.S. 17 overpass, according to a 10:05 a.m. alert from the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Emergency crews, police and VDOT are on the scene, at mile marker 125, near the U.S. 17 overpass.

VDOT suggests northbound traffic seek alternate routes, with one being U.S. 1 from the Thornburg exit of I95. Traffic heading beyond Northern Virginia and Washington can take Route 207 and Route 301.

Virginia State Police said in a 10:13 a.m. news release that the crash happened at 9:45 and that there were no reported injuries.
Press Release

February 27, 2023 Hontiveros to DFA: Broker updated security agreements with international partners to defend PH from China's aggression Senator Risa Hontiveros on Monday urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to broker updated security agreements with different countries that can help defend the Philippines from China's continued aggression. "We have to exhaust all possible ways to defend the Philippines from China's shameless actions. A security agreement can serve as a defensive framework that would provide for joint patrols and training of our troops so we are prepared to work as part of a team should tensions escalate," Hontiveros said. "Araw-araw na ang pang-haharass at pambubully ng Tsina sa ating mga mangingisda at mga coast guard. We cannot do nothing," the senator added. During a security conference in Germany, DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo said that the harassment of Filipino fishermen and coast guard personnel is a "daily situation that we face." He then called on the United Nations to help create greater awareness on the importance of upholding the UNCLOS and sustaining a rules-based order in our seas. "Besides creating awareness, we, in the Philippines, also have to lead in taking tangible steps that can urgently help our citizens who are directly affected by China's aggression. Kung hindi natin ipinagtatanggol ang ating karapatan sa sarili nating karagatan, para narin nating pinagkaitan ng hanapbuhay ang ating mga mangingisda, ating mga mamamayan," Hontiveros said. The senator said that our country should not only depend on the Mutual Defense Treaty with the US in protecting our sovereign rights in the WPS, emphasizing that similar agreements can also be forged with other countries that want to maintain peace and stability in the region. "Dapat mapalakas na ang ating pag-uugnayan sa mga karatig-bansa na lubos ding maapektuhan kung hindi huminto ang pambabastos ng Tsina. China will not stop until we surrender the WPS, so we must also show her that we will never stand down," the senator said. "Sa labang ito, nag-iisa ang Tsina, habang tayo, napakaraming kakampi. Let us maximize the reinforcement of the international community and consolidate all this support once and for all," Hontiveros concluded.
The community conversation about whether accessory dwelling units should be permitted in Fredericksburg continued last week at an information session hosted by Fossil Free Fredericksburg, Fifteen Minute Fredericksburg and the DisAbility Resource Center of the Rappahannock Area.

Sam Shelby, principal planner for the City of Alexandria, was a guest speaker at the town hall event, which was held Feb. 23 at the 718 Venue in downtown Fredericksburg.

City Council last month voted to initiate amendments to the citys unified development ordinance that would permit accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, in residential areas.

As part of the process, Council requested that the Planning Commission conduct multiple public hearings on the issue and host or attend multiple information sessions for the community.

The citys director of community planning and building, Chuck Johston, and senior planner Mike Craig attended last weeks information session.

The draft amendments proposed by city staff define an ADU as a secondary dwelling unit established in conjunction with and clearly subordinate to a principal dwelling unit, whether part of the same structure as the principal dwelling unit or as a detached accessory structure on the same lot.

ADUs would only be permitted in association with a single-family detached dwelling unit and only one would be allowed per lot.

According to the proposed amendments, an ADU cannot be greater than 400 square feet if located separate from the principal dwelling or greater than 40% of the gross floor area if located within the principal dwelling, and can only contain one kitchen.

The amendments would not change the total permitted occupancy of a single-family lot, which cannot exceed a family plus two unrelated people or a total of three unrelated people.

ADUs were common in cities in the early to mid 1900s, said Aaron Frank with Fifteen Minute Fredericksburg, who moderated last weeks discussion, but they began to be phased out after World War II with the rise of suburban single-family communities.

Often, those communities had restrictive covenants that limited who property could be sold to or how it could be used, Frank said, and some of the covenants were incorporated into restrictive zoning codes.

Cities across the country are starting to reverse this trend by permitting ADUs in an attempt to meet the need for missing middle housing  smaller living units such as duplexes, courtyard apartments and townhomes that blend into existing residential neighborhoods and provide more housing options.

That is impetus for proposing ADUs in Fredericksburg, city planners said Thursday.

Were projected to need 3,600 new housing units to meet growth, said Craig, citing estimates provided by the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia. Fifty-two percent of the city is zoned residential, which is very restrictive, but there is a need for new housing.

Johnston said that if the demand for housing is not met, housing costs will continue to rise, making it difficult for people to live and work in the city.

We need multiple options, he said.

Alexandrias ADU policy was passed in 2020, and the city, which has a population of about 160,000, just recently approved a 40th new unit, Shelby said.

This isnt going to change your neighborhood overnight or even in a generation, he said.

Johnston said he doesnt expect Fredericksburg to reach 40 new units in five or even six years.

Because ADUs are small, they tend to be organically affordable, Shelby said.

They give a different type of person access to neighborhoods, he said.

Alexandrias new policy also legitimized the ADUs that already existed in the city, Shelby said, which is beneficial from a public safety standpoint.

Fredericksburgs planning staff estimate that there are already about 100 ADUs in the city, which would become legal if the proposed amendments are approved.

Residents who attended the information session had questions about whether there is really a need for ADUs, how they would affect parking, property values and enrollment in city schools, and whether the proposed amendments incentivize real estate investors to buy up residential properties.

Shelby said that in his experience, the approved ADUs have not affected school enrollment because of the occupancy limits.

Fredericksburg city staff conducted a parking analysis in nine neighborhoods  College Terrace, Idlewild, Canal Quarter, Great Oaks, Mayfield, Princess Anne Street South, College Heights, Charlotte Street West and Longstreet Avenue  earlier this month and found that neighborhoods in general have a high amount of available on-street parking and low demand.

The proposed amendments do not increase occupancy over what is already permitted in single-family detached homes and do not require modifications to curbs to create off-street parking.

These considerations, coupled with the relatively modest number of ADUs anticipated to be constructed in city neighborhoods indicate that there is sufficient parking to accommodate these uses in keeping with the character of the citys very valuable neighborhoods, according to the parking analysis.

Property owners currently are allowed to build accessory structures that have setbacks and do not take up more than 30% of the backyard. The only thing that would be different under the proposed ADU amendments is that accessory structures could have full-sized kitchens, Johnston said.

Missy Colombo, a local architect and city resident, said she gets many calls from property owners who want to build ADUs, and they are not from real estate investors.

The calls Im getting are from people who want these for their family members or friends, she said. The affordability comes from the need.

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on the proposed ADU amendments on March 8, April 12 and May 10 and will hold additional public information sessions on March 15 at Lafayette Elementary School, April 1 at the Walker-Grant Center and April 19 at the Police Department.

For more information and a list of frequently asked questions about ADUs, visit fredericksburgva.gov/1885/Accessory-Dwelling-Units.
Lena perches on her rock, surveying her kingdom, and calmly chews on a fat orange carrot with her mouth open.

A tuft of white fur has settled on one of the spunky and friendly 3-year-olds sharp horns. No matter. Its the latest in Rocky Mountain goat fashion.

Her kid, 9-month-old Blanca, scampers nearby, also with a clump of white fur on one of her brand-new, still tiny horns. She keeps a close eye on her mama, but also is willing to explore the terrain to ensure no tasty produce snacks or tree branches go uneaten in their rocky exhibit at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

Above them is Albert, Blancas 8-year-old papa, who wanders around near the top of the exhibit, foraging for romaine leaves and other tidbits in the February sun.

Hes kind of the silent protector of the group, said Lauren Phillippi, Rocky Mountain goat keeper. In reality the girls are in charge.

The gangs all here

The zoo is home to five Rocky Mountain goats  the family of three plus two older ladies, 17-year-old Twinkie and her daughter, 12-year-old Yazhi. Being as the typical lifespan for a goat in the wild is 9 to 12 years, Twinkie is living her best matriarchal life. The older you are in Rocky Mountain goat world, the more power you yield, though there is respect given to new moms.

Shes (Twinkie) our head honcho, Phillippi said. Lena is usually the lower, but when she had Blanca she was a great mom, standing up to the other goats, making sure Blanca had enough room and space and had plenty of time to bond. The older goats respected her and her baby.

Great goat love affair

Albert came to the zoo in 2018 and Lena in 2019 as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan to potentially increase the zoos Rocky Mountain goat herd. Clearly, it worked. Lena and Albert took a liking to each other, though the birth of Blanca came as a surprise on one bitterly cold May day last year. Lena hadnt given any signs indicating she was pregnant, but keepers noticed she was acting a little off that day. Sure enough, later that afternoon she bore her baby girl.

Babies are on their feet so fast because theyre in such harsh environments, said the zoos public relations and social media manager, Rachel Wright. When she was born it was so shocking how quickly she was up and about, eating solid foods so quickly. They wean at three months. They have to grow up very quickly to survive.

Rocky Mountain goats in the wild

The white, fluffy, agile creatures are native to alpine and subalpine habitats of mostly the northwestern part of the U.S. Theyre not native to Colorado, but wild populations of the goats have done a good job establishing themselves, so you might see them in some areas, including near Glenwood Springs.

Gold medal for climbing

Maybe youve seen images of goats clinging to mountain faces, seeming to rest comfortably in places they should have no business resting. Thats thanks to hooves with two front toes that can spread apart to help climb or close together on narrow edges. They also have rough pads on the bottom of their hooves that provide a skid-resistant grip. And they have no problem jumping up to a dozen feet.

Produce  its whats for dinner

Take your flanks of steak and head to tiger exhibit. These ladies and their guy only want veggies, hay and tree branches. They love a crisp piece of lettuce, a slice of apple or sweet potato and handfuls of sweet feed, what looks like goat granola, as they train with keepers on husbandry tasks, such as offering their hooves for cleaning. Albert especially looks forward to snacks.

Hes a foodie, Phillippi said. He respects the ladies space, but when it comes to food and they have a snack hes going to stick his nose in to see whats up. But hell let them keep on munching. Hes a big connoisseur of all the different foods we feed them.

Protective anatomy

Rocky Mountain goats come equipped with defenses against predators. Their sharply pronged horns start growing when theyre young and never stop; they dont shed them like animals with antlers. Those pointy ends are used for protection. And their gorgeous amber eyes have rectangular-shaped pupils, so if theyre grazing with their heads down, it gives them a better field of view so they can be on the lookout for potential threats.

Contact the writer: 636-0270
Regulations are valves. For the allocation of water in a drought, yes, but for much more. Think drugs, alcohol, housing, endangered birds, gambling, gas-guzzling cars or mental health care. In all human events, regulations or the lack thereof control supplies of everything.

So, thank Colorados legislature for passing House Bill 23-1071 last week. The bill proposes opening a valve and releasing more health care. Regulatory valves provide potential solutions to a litany of problems. Sadly, politicians seldom adjust them to release the market's potential.

As we endure a heart-wrenching mental health crisis, 1071 could save lives. If signed into law, it would allow more professionals to prescribe psychotropic pharmaceuticals.

In adjusting regulation, policymakers should set aside political considerations be certain the anticipated positive results will outweigh risks. Regulating health care requires the precision of a scalpel, not the wanton slashing by sword.

History provides countless examples of regulatory and deregulatory disasters. Careless deregulation allowed the savings & loan crisis of the 1980s and 90s, when a lack of rules and oversight allowed cavalier and criminal banking maneuvers to ruin lives at a societal cost of $160 billion. President Richard Nixons ham-fisted regulation of gasoline prices led to shortages and hours-long waits at fuel pumps.

Regulation is neither good nor bad. It exists. Politically, the best regulatory schematics reside in the middle. Thats why HB 1071 earned overwhelming bipartisan support.

Without the bill, mental health patients would continue suffering from a restraint on practitioners that probably does more harm than good. Colorado patients typically wait months to see psychiatrists who can write prescriptions. Psychiatry requires a degree in allopathic or osteopathic medicine and a state medical license. General practice physicians often feel under-qualified to write mental health prescriptions.

Colorados six million residents include 600 psychiatrists, which is one for every 10,000 residents. By contrast, we have 3,000 licensed psychologists. Taken together, we have a psychiatrist or psychologist for every 1,700 Coloradans.

Psychiatrists have more biological training than psychologists. Yet, psychologists with Ph. Ds in psychology are also highly educated specialists. They understand depression, anxiety and other such ailments because that is their job. Counseling in lieu of drugs should be their first approach, but some patients need both. Yet, health care regulations prohibit psychologists from prescribing common, FDA-approved drugs.

HB 1071 establishes the opportunity for our states highest-achieving psychologists to prescribe drugs for mental health. It expands prescribers for the benefit of patients. Legislators wisely crafted the bill to increase supply while ensuring safety.

Before prescribing medications, doctorate-degreed psychologists would have masters degrees in clinical psychopharmacology, pass national psychopharmacology exams, complete 750 hours of prescribing with physician supervision, obtain approval of the state boards of psychology and medicine, complete 40 hours of continuing education in psychopharmacology each two years and keep up with psychology-based continuing education. Psychologists would hold malpractice insurance to maintain prescribing privileges.

Other deregulatory measures have safely increased the supply of health care. The state allowed the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs to operate a medical school that produces more physicians. The state increased the nursing supply by allowing community colleges to offer four-year nursing degrees. Recent deregulation allows healthcare professionals who move to Colorado to practice with out-of-state licenses while they pursue in-state certifications.

When society suffers shortages  in health care, energy, housing or more  politicians have a powerful tool they should use more often. With a focus on good and safe outcomes, they can adjust the valves of regulation to better provide what humanity needs.
A woman wakes, disoriented and in pain, with no memory of the night before after going out for drinks and dancing with a female friend and a man she thought she could trust.

After piecing together shards of the evening with the help of friends who said theyd seen the man repeatedly buy her drinks  and the family members who drove from Fountain to Fort Carson to collect her, unconscious and wearing only her underwear, from his bed the following morning  she goes to UCHealth in Colorado Springs, where a sexual assault forensic exam is completed.

During the exam, two specially trained nurses find evidence that confirms the womans suspicion of an unwanted and nonconsensual sexual encounter, according to testimony last week during a court martial for Fort Carson Staff Sgt. Cory Penven, who ultimately was found guilty of sexual assault.

I was concerned about the health of my body, the victim testified, explaining why she sought out medical care. I never thought I would be in that position because I was with someone I trusted.

Sexual assault is one of the most underreported crimes, according to an analysis by the Justice Department, which has estimated that as many as two-thirds of cases may go unreported.

The reasons are complex but whats known for certain is this: When the victims of such crimes dont seek treatment, justice isnt the only right they may be giving up.

Patients, after theyve experienced a sexual assault specifically, nobody is super excited about wanting to go into the hospital," said Sarah Hagedorn, registered nurse and project director of UCHealth Memorial Hospitals Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program. "That puts them at risk for sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancy, and there's also no conversation about advocacy or what they need in terms of follow-up care, mental and physical. The more barriers you put in front of them, the less likely they are to seek any type of medical care.

Just because theres a hospital or medical center in town doesnt mean the professionals who work there have received the training needed to treat victims of sexual assault.

Everybody knows theres not enough nurses. Theres not nearly enough SANE nurses. Were talking a couple thousand in the nation, Hagedorn said.

Most nurses, she said, are not taught how to do a pelvic exam in nursing school.

There are plenty of places in the country where the training is, Hey, theres a sexual assault patient, youre an ER nurse, heres an evidence kit, she said. This (specialty) requires a significant amount of training and expertise to be able to effectively care for these patients.

Last year, Memorials team of 22 forensic nurse examiners saw about 2,500 victims of sexual assault and family and intimate partner violence at the hospitals two Springs locations.

Addressing such patients many needs, in a manner that doesnt compound the trauma theyve already experienced, is a complex and nuanced protocol at the nexus of health care, criminal justice and the art  and architecture  of compassion.

When youre fresh from a trauma youre very sensory minimalist, so you dont want a lot of sound, you dont want a lot of distraction, you just want to be in a safe space, said Hagedorn.

Since the mid-1990s, Memorial and its staff of certified Sexual Assault and Forensic Nurse Examiners have provided those exams in a private room away from the din and echoes of one of Americas busiest emergency departments.

In a few months, Memorial Central will open a new, $3 million grant-funded Forensic Center of Excellence, with five rooms and, eventually, a staff of more than two dozen.

It will be the only center of its kind  with round-the-clock staffing, adjacent to an emergency department and with an entire hospital system of resources at its fingertips, said Jennifer Pierce-Weeks, CEO of the International Association of Forensic Nurses, based outside D.C.

This is the only program that I am aware of that will have a dedicated space inside their emergency department specifically for the forensic nursing population, she said. This is what wed love to see all hospitals, and communities, be moving towards.

Pierce-Weeks got her start in forensic nursing at Memorial, and recalls what the field was like at one of the best of destinations back then, with on-call staff whod pursued the specialized training and testing on their own then brought back what theyd learned.

Over the course of the years that I was there, the program was built out to be a completely in-house (service), with nurses seeing a much broader patient population, sexual assault abuse, child and adult maltreatment, trafficking, strangulation, Pierce-Weeks said.

The international organization she now leads traces its roots to the 1970s, with a grassroots push by nurses in three busy metro emergency departments who realized staff werent meeting the needs of sexual assault and violence patients, on any level.

Ultimately, 72 nurses from across the U.S. and Canada came together to form this organization, said Pierce-Weeks.

Over the following decades, the organization has evolved to cover a broader population of potential victims, in a way that meets not only the patient needs but also criminal justice needs, assuming the case winds up in court, she added. Patients can receive treatment without pursuing charges, but evidence is still collected and stored should they change their minds.

Based on data self-reported to the IAFN by hospitals, health care centers and individual members, Pierce-Weeks said that about 25% of U.S. cities and towns now have some form of forensic nursing services. Most are based at hospitals, a fraction of them at community centers. The majority are on-call.

At those locations, things work much like they did in the early days of SANE/SAFE at Memorial.

In 1995, a patient comes into the emergency department reporting a sexual assault, theyd be seen potentially by another nurse and a provider who would then call in a forensic nurse, and they might take up to an hour to get here, Hagedorn said. Then the forensic nurse will talk to the patient, explain the process, walk them through the forensic exam itself, potentially evidence collection, medications  and what was already potentially a lengthy encounter had waiting and delays on top of that. Now, we decrease that by just being in the building.

In rural areas, such delayed treatment may have involved more than just a wait.

When I was first doing it in this (Chaffee) county, we did not have any tele-health, there were times when if I wasnt in town, victims were having to be driven in the back of a police car to Colorado Springs or Pueblo to get their exams, so that is definitely not trauma-informed care, said SANE/SAFE nurse Kim Reese. Not that the police were mistreating them, but when you get put in the back of a police car  you feel like youve done something wrong.

For a while, Reese did exams after-hours, out of a room at a Chaffee County dermatologists office. For a while, she was itinerant.

We had an extremely large suitcase full of stuff that we carried around with us everywhere we went, because there really was not a home for us, she said. That thing was huge, and really hard for me to lift.

Now, she and a fellow SANE/SAFE nurse, Kim Maddock, conduct an average of 12 exams a year in dedicated space at The Alliance, a collective of advocate and resource services in Salida.

The two are veteran forensic nurse examiners, whove done what they do for decades.

In other outlying areas, including tribal communities, trained SANE/SAFE nurses may go many months between patients.

UCHealth Memorial offers the special forensic training through its education center at the hospital. A two-day clinical skills lab involves gynecological teaching associates who are paid to let students practice pelvic exams on them.

If youre a nurse in, say, Springer and you are interested in becoming a SANE, you can take 64 hours of education from us thats consistent with and approved by the international association of forensic nurses education guidelines, said Hagedorn. What we dont want is for the first time someone is doing a pelvic exam to be on someone who has experienced a sexual assault.

Forensic nurses such as Emma Pinkerton, lead instructor for the program at Memorial, also frequently travel to outlying areas and tribal communities to conduct the training. She and her colleagues continue to provide on-call medical and technical assistance via tele-health, at Memorial's 13 rural partner hospitals and clinics around the state. Through such tech, SANE/SAFE nurses at UCHealth can help walk their less-experienced colleagues through exams, if a patient consents to having them present. Such an arrangement helps with comfort and confidence for both patient and providers, said Pierce-Weeks.

In those communities, it can be very challenging for nurses who are trained to maintain their competency, Pierce-Weeks said. Tele-SANE or tele-forensic nursing can really help maintain the competency of the nurses who are on site with the patients by assisting them, and hopefully even help keep nurses from burning out and leaving the field.

The benefits of such services  for patients in rural areas, and everywhere SAFE/SANE programs are in place  are harder to quantify, said Hagedorn.

People dont fully understand the impact that this care can have on an individual and a community, she said. When it's not available, "that doesnt mean the violence has stopped occurring. It just means now they may have to drive two hours or four hours or six hours to receive the appropriate medical care.

And, far too often, it means they may not seek treatment at all.
While its true that Colorado Springs has had a better track record than Denver in reducing the number of unsheltered homeless people living on the streets in recent years, as a new analysis from a Colorado think tank shows, some say it isnt fair to compare the state's two largest metropolitan areas.

It is well-understood that Denver and Colorado Springs are very different cities with very different populations and resource trends, said Cathy Alderman, spokesperson and public policy officer for the Denver-based Colorado Coalition for the Homeless.

I don't know what the value in making this comparison is without comparing other factors like population size, population growth, availability of housing resources and availability of shelter and non-congregate shelter options, she said. I think this report incorrectly conflates a reduction in unsheltered homelessness with homelessness resolution.

Others, like Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers, who will retire after the April 4 municipal election, believes the Colorado Springs Homelessness Study that the Common Sense Institute released this week confirms what hes been espousing for years.

Compared to other cities, were doing a hell of a job, he said in an interview.

The Greenwood Village-based Common Sense Institute, which describes itself as a nonpartisan, independent research organization, studied years of results from a mandatory annual census known as the Point in Time survey  which is necessary for communities to receive federal funding for homeless services  and determined that unlike several places in the Denver metro area and the region as a whole, Colorado Springs is not experiencing a significant rise its homeless population.

Some people won't believe the conclusion, Suthers said.

"This report will come as a shock to most Colorado Springs residents," he said. "They see two homeless residents and think it's too many, they see people on their favorite trails, and they dont like it.

"First and foremost, we want to help anybody that wants help in terms of getting shelter, and we have worked very intentionally, looking at various ways of dealing with this."

In the 2022 Point in Time, Colorado Springs reported a total of 1,443 homeless people to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Denver counted 6,884 homeless people in 2022, up from 4,019 in 2017.

All communities are still tallying statistics for the 2023 count, which was conducted in January.

Whats most significant, the institutes analysis says, is that Colorado Springs unsheltered rate, which refers to people living outside in tents, under bridges, in doorways or other uninhabitable places, has fallen by nearly 43% since 2018, when almost one-third of the citys homeless population was considered unsheltered.

As of last year, Colorado Springs' unsheltered rate dropped to encompass 19% of the total homeless population, or 267 people.

In the metro Denver area, the unsheltered population grew by 33% from 2020 to 2022, to reach 2,078  the areas highest level since 2008, the institute reports. And since 2019, Denvers unsheltered population has increased by 120%.

Its natural to want to compare two cities to one another  this city is doing this, we dont want to do this  and theyre making the case that homelessness in Colorado Springs is more in check, said Evan Caster, senior manager of homeless initiatives for the Pikes Peak Community Health Partnership, which focuses on improving the overall health of the region.

Walking around downtown Denver shows visible differences in the homeless population, he said, as many more homeless people can be seen hanging out on the streets and living in makeshift camps than in Colorado Springs.

However, Caster said, Its a hard apples-to-apples comparison to draw from just looking at the numbers.

While the populations of Denver County, which includes the city of Denver, and El Paso County, which includes the city of Colorado Springs, are similar, the metro Denver area in terms of the Point in Time survey covers seven counties: Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties. The Colorado Springs area encompasses only El Paso County.

That means the one-night snapshot the Point in Time provides is a limited look at the population, Caster said.

El Paso County is unique in that we have urban, rural and suburban all in one county, he said, so youre going to see the homeless experience in a variety of ways.

Suthers said he thinks its reasonable to pit Colorado Springs side by side with Denver when it comes to the issue.

The significant disparity in the larger numbers of homeless in Denver versus Colorado Springs cant be explained by claiming the cities are too different, he said.

It is very clear to me that they are not enforcing the camping bans in Denver, Suthers said, and frankly, I don't understand why.

Colorado Springs has maintained a relatively stable homeless population since 2015, Common Sense Institutes Executive Director Kelly Caufield said.

Though the county's total number in 2022 was 31% higher than in 2015, its was also 10% lower than it was in 2019, she noted.

Homelessness is certainly not solved in Colorado Springs, but we did see some encouraging trends, Caufield said.

As to extrapolating data from the Point in Time as the basis for her organization's analysis, Caufield said its the best information available with which to compare statewide trends.

Its not perfect, but its the only metric I know in terms of quantifying and counting this population, she said. It does allow the best apples-to-apples comparison as we can in the state.

Homelessness is one of the top issues of many political candidates running for municipal seats this year in cities including Colorado Springs and Denver, Caufield said.

The issue is tough, officials agree, because the reasons people become homeless are multifaceted, and the solutions must take into account legal considerations as well as humane approaches.

Nonetheless, We think Colorado Springs is bucking the trend, and theres something worth learning from, and something worth trying to replicate here, Caufield said.

So whats working?

Suthers points to a strategy under his leadership in Colorado Springs to increase emergency shelter beds at the city's main shelters, the Springs Rescue Mission and the Salvation Armys R.J. Montgomery Center.

An $18 million expansion at Springs Rescue Mission, which was completed in 2021, expanded the campus to provide a multitude of services, including job training through a culinary academy and city cleanup work, on-campus transitional housing, substance abuse programs, a nearby indigent health center and other support services, all toward the goal of moving people from the streets to shelters to permanent housing.

"The important thing is to make sure you have a broad range of services to take care of the people who want help," Suthers said.

Also, "You dont throw up your arms and surrender for people who dont want help and want to remain on the streets."

Other steps Colorado Springs has taken include enacting an ordinance that prohibits anyone from sitting, lying, kneeling or reclining on sidewalks, trails, alleys and other rights of way  a law that critics say targets homeless people.

Colorado Springs and El Paso County also ban camping near waterways, in parks, along trail systems and on other government land.

Enforcement is possible because of the availability of shelter beds for anyone who wants to sleep inside overnight, said Suthers, who is a former Colorado attorney general.

Even with two family shelters closing last year and the Salvation Army transitioning its shelter from singles and families to families only, Springs Rescue Mission has had enough space to accommodate single men and women this winter season, said spokesman Cameron Moix.

Bunk-bed use has been between 425 and 450 people on colder nights, he said. The shelter has reached maximum bed capacity of 450 twice this year and then switched to having people sleep on mats, Moix said, adding that the shelter wont turn anyone away because of space.

Colorado Springs also has increased its affordable housing stock in the past five years, Suthers said, with now more than 1,000 units per year committed for development or availability.

What's also helped, Caster said, is that Colorado Springs homeless service providers and city departments, including fire, police, subsidized housing and homeless prevention, do a good job of working together toward the common goal of ending homelessness.

Alderman of the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless said the solution to ending homelessness "is and always will be housing."

However, she added, housing with supportive services is most effective for people coming directly from unsheltered environments, people who are chronically homeless, and individuals and families with healthcare or other acute needs.

"The Denver Social Impact Bond program (which uses a housing-first approach to get people into housing before addressing other problems) proves housing with supportive services both increases the likelihood of long-term housing stability and reduces spending on emergency resources like shelter, detox and interactions with the criminal justice system," she said.

If a local government is not also investing in long-term solutions to homelessness including housing, services, health care and employment, then they are managing homelessness and not resolving it.

Other strategies that help communities respond to immediate needs include street outreach, 24/7 shelter operations, non-congregate shelter-like motels, transitional or bridge housing, and access to better health care and employment services, Alderman said.
Resolving a question it had never addressed before, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled on Monday that trial judges may not order the parties in a criminal case to participate in mediation to potentially reach a plea agreement.

Although prosecutors and defendants can voluntarily decide to sit down with a neutral third party and discuss how to resolve the case, the justices emphasized that state law does not require district attorneys to engage in plea negotiations in the first place. Furthermore, the law prohibits judges from involving themselves in those discussions.

That the People are vested with the discretion to engage in plea discussions necessarily means that they are vested with the discretion to refrain from engaging in plea discussions, wrote Justice Carlos A. Samour Jr., referring to the prosecution. What the defendant cannot do is enlist the courts assistance via an order for mediation to try to force the People to extend an offer or to consider a more favorable offer.

Jeff Chostner, the district attorney for Pueblo County, said his office has engaged in mediation before and found it to be helpful sometimes.

However, there are limits to what a court can order and those limits were exceeded in this case. The judiciary cannot order a prosecutor to enter into a process or resolution that it does not believe is in the best interests of the People, he said.

The unusual circumstances arose from four criminal proceedings in Pueblo County against James Lee Justice, who faces a host of serious charges. He stands accused of shooting at police officers, throwing a bomb into his neighbors yard and exploding another bomb near responding officers. The charges against Justice include assault and attempted murder.

The defense moved for the trial judge to order mediation in the four pending cases, arguing that it would create the opportunity for all parties to have a frank exchange about their positions, and enable an objective third party to provide feedback.

On Aug. 17, 2022, District Court Judge Allison P. Ernst held a hearing on the request.

I think I can order mediation in this case, she said to the prosecutor. Me ordering mediation does not mean you have to make an offer, but Id like a good faith attempt to see if theres some way to work these cases out.

The district attorneys office subsequently asked Ernst to reconsider, raising the issue of separation of powers. One of Justices attorneys, Michael S. Emmons, responded to say he has personally participated in court-ordered mediations of criminal cases in multiple judicial districts, and argued Ernst had not interfered with any decision-making by the prosecution as an arm of the executive branch.

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The judge agreed, clarifying she was not directing (an) investigation or prosecution of Justices cases, and suggested Justices request for mediation indicated he was willing to plead guilty under the right conditions.

The Court is very aware that there is no guarantee of success, but believes it is worth a morning or afternoon of the time of the parties to mediate in good faith, Ernst wrote.

She ordered the parties to contact the mediator, retired Pueblo County Judge Scott B. Epstein, to provide him with the relevant materials. Epstein, in emailing the parties, asked for a confidential settlement statement and a description of each sides strengths and weaknesses. He also invited them to submit a CD of evidence.

Prosecutors in Pueblo County then appealed directly to the Supreme Court, arguing Ernsts directive was well-intentioned, but impermissibly told the district attorneys office how to use its resources in prosecuting Justice. They contended that there were logistical concerns with mediation, but more fundamentally, a judges role is not to decide for the prosecution whether to engage in plea negotiations.

In other words, can a criminal court require mediation as a prerequisite to proceed with a case in the criminal adjudicative process and/or to get to trial? wrote Megan Rasband on behalf of Chostners office. An affirmative answer unquestionably usurps the prosecutions executive function and creates an un-remediable separation of powers violation.

The Colorado Attorney Generals Office, representing Ernst, cited the states Dispute Resolution Act, which generally empowers judges to refer any case for mediation services. It also cautioned the Supreme Court against being the first jurisdiction in the country to decide that court-ordered mediation in criminal cases violates the separation of powers.

The Supreme Court was unmoved by the attorney generals argument. First, the Dispute Resolution Act governs civil, not criminal, cases, wrote Samour in the Feb. 27 opinion. Second, the states criminal law does not authorize court-ordered mediation. District attorneys may  not must  engage in plea negotiations and trial judges, by contrast, shall not participate in such discussions.

Moreover, the court issued the mediation order at Justices behest, after he was unsuccessful in obtaining a more favorable offer from the People. Under these circumstances, requiring the People to participate in mediation was tantamount to ordering them to consider a different offer, Samour added.

The court based its decision, in part, on its own ruling from 2010, Crumb v. People, in which the pressure to resolve a case cut in the other direction. There, a judge suggested a defendant should take a deal from the prosecution in lieu of significant time in prison following a trial. The Supreme Court decided the judge had violated the prohibition against participating in plea discussions.

The case is People v. Justice.
A woman was injured in an early morning hit-and-run crash in northeast Colorado Springs Monday, according to police.

Around 2:30 a.m., officers responded to a crash at the intersection of Dublin and Powers boulevards, police said. Officials did not provide information on the nature of the crash or how it happened.

According to Gazette news partner KKTV, a stolen vehicle was involved in the crash, and the driver of that vehicle fled the scene on foot.

The female driver was taken to the hospital and her condition is unknown.

Police said the investigation is ongoing.
Press Release

February 27, 2023 TRANSCRIPT OF INTERPELLATION

Senator Risa Hontiveros during the Maharlika Wealth Fund hearing RE: BSP's Independence SRH: In the previous hearing, Sen Win Gatchalian asked the BSP why, when the Senate was deliberating on the increased capitalization of BSP, BSP officials even argued for a P400 billion capitalization instead of just P200 billion. Congress approved only P200 billion. Pero mula noon after global commodity prices gyrated wildly to where they are today and finances became volatile in the course of the pandemic and of the Russian aggression in Ukraine - our BSP Deputy Governor Dakila said that it's okay for the BSPs capital to be built up over a longer period. My question Mr Chair, is it also the position of BSP Governor Felipe Medalla - that despite the global economic volatility it's alright to defer the build up of the BSP reserves to P200 Billion man lang to give way for financing a Maharlika Investment Company or Fund? And what do the members of the Monetary Board have to say? BSP Illuminada Sicat: On the question of the good senator, at the time the BSP was negotiating for a capiutal increase, the BSP was incurring successive years of losses. It was I think the data sent then was 2016. During that time, the BSP was incurring five years of successive years of losses. Noe these losses emanated from BSP's initiative in order to address some of the volatilities in foreign exchange, but recently, based on official reports of the BSP, we have incurred, for the past 3 years, 2019-2021, BSP has recovered and posted income and was able to remit dividends to the national government. I am just giving you the information that at the time we were representing a capital increase, the BSP did not remit any dividends to the government at that time. So in answering to the question, can the BSP provide funds to the MIF at this time, looking at the performance of BSP, 2019-2021, the BSP can afford for two years, temporarily, provide dividends to the MIF. Of course, we are not sure whether the uncertainties that befall in 2012 to 2016 when we incurred crisis and we need we really reported losses, we are not sure whether these will happen again but given the timeframe of two years, given the time that we have recovered then establish the strength of the financial position of the BSP, we can afford to contribute to the dividends that goes to the national government and we recognize the fact that the congress has the power of the purse, make use of the remittance of the BSP for whatever purpose it wants it to be SRH: Salamat ma'am and of course, Congress is __ by the inputs of institutions such as yourselves. Yung limang taon po ng successive losses, magkano cumulatively ang nawala sa Bangko Sentral? Kaya hindi kayo nakapagremit noon? SICAT: In 2012, our loss was 59 billion, 2011 - 33.7 billion, 2012 - 95.4, 2013 - 25 billion and 2014 - 10 billion. 2015 - 4 billion, pababa po siya SRH: So cumulatively? SICAT: 226 billion SRH: 226B cumulatively and nawala ng bangko sentral noong limang taon ng successive losses kayta hindi kayo nakapagremit. In the past 3 years, sabi nyo nakapagremit na kayo ulit. Magkano po ang recovered ng Bangko Snetral? SICAT: Based on official release and it's also available on our website, the net income of the BSP in 2019 is 46.2 billion, 2020 31.7 billion 2021 is 34.7 billion po. SRH: So mga 100? SICAT: Over 100 B SRH: So hindi pa po nababawi yung 226 B na nawala ng BSP noong limang taon pero nagsimula na kayong mag-remit ulit? SICAT: Opo SRH: May kulang pa po na mga 126 b para lang bawiin yung nawala sa atin noong limang taon pero sinasabi na ng Bangko Sentral na can afford na sa loob ng dalawang taon to invest in the Mharlika Investment Company and Fund. Ito po ba't posisyon na rin ni BSP Governor Medalla? SICAT: This is the official position of the BSP. Ma'am I would also like to raise that when the BSP charter was amended, it also allowed the BSP to expand its policy toolkit. In other words po, there are other opportunities in the BSP to deliver its mandate for stability. In addition to the additional capital, we were also allowed to expand the policy toolkit. In other words, we are also allowed to issue our own instrument so that we can continuously perform our mandate of monetary stability. SRH: Which is also why kahit po sa isang lay person tulad ko ma'am hindi naman ako banker, monetary stability ay mangangailangan ng kanina, narinig ko po ang sinabi ng DBP, usually ang mga bangko, you are more conservative mahirap din isipin in a way the risk you're taking to your own internal stability kung may babawiin pang higit 100 bilyong piso but you will use your expanded policy toolkit, you will use yung mga bagong instrumento na inissue nyo to afford the investment over two years sa Maharlika. Ito rin po yung monetary board position tungkol sa maharlika vis-a-vis ang initial na capitalization targets ng Bangko Sentral? SICAT: It is. SRH: Well, even at this point it would seem to me and perhaps to resource persons, halimbawa, from the Foundation for Economic Freedom, na baka Bangko Sentral is trying to please Malacanang baka it seemingly, ito yung pinaka-worrying sa mga mamamayan at mambabatas tulad ko, it seems there's been a b it of public wandering about this in the past several days, it seems na demonstrating a loss of BSP's independence and we're concerned about the institution at the expense precisely of Bangko Sentral's ability to maintain macroeconomic stability in the future. I hope I'll be proven wrong or I am wrong, and will be proven wrong about this kasi medyo irreplaceable ang isang institusyon katulad ninyo. Given our current economic status still emerging from a pandemic, a recession and then facing the possibility of having this proposal about a Maharlika Investment Company and Fund pero salamat po Ma'am at salamat, Mr Chair. RE: Mining Fiscal Regimes SRH: Sa DOF and then one last motion to the chair on quick observation lang doon sa inputs ng PAGCOR, yung PAGCOR mag-aambag sa Maharlika for 5 years, yung BSP kakayaning maghintay ng 17 years bago magfully-capitalized, parang nakakainggit naman ang PAGCOR. Ang huling tanong ko po, in recent news reports DoF Secretary Ben Diokno says "If you exclude BSP, Landbank, and DBP where will we source it?" This was apparently a response to points raised by resource persons that the Committee heard during our second hearing. kalagitnaan ng Enero, Sec Diokno was also quoted in the media saying that mining revenues should be used to capitalize a Maharlika Wealth Fund. That would be an answer that the Secretary will probably not disagree with. We just need some information. What is the Executive's revenue mobilization plan for the mining sector in terms of yearly revenues? and What will the aspired revenue in 2024, 2025 and 2026? DOF USEC ZENO ABENOJA: Thank you, Mr Chair. In terms of funding for the MWF, a possible source will indeed be the revenues coming from the extractive industries, however, they may not be available immediately given that the fiscal regime over the sector is still being studied right now. A proposal is pending in Congress on the Mining fiscal regime but based on recent performance of the industry we could have some estimates of probably revenues that can be used by the national government for example, for the existing collection of mining industry, right now, the estimate is that the annual revenue could amount to more than 38 billion pesos there could be some incremental revenues depending on the proposed of the design proposed mining fiscal regime. Some estimates, for example if we look at revenues coming from the metallic mines, another an additional revenue of 9 billion can be generated annually that this is for the metallic mines. There are also proposals to include non-metallic segment of the sector. The range of additional revenues that could be raised would be about more than 200 million to as much as 3 and a half billion pesos. So these are some of the numbers that have been initially estimated, Mr. Chair, Madam Senator. SRH: Maraming salamat, Mr Chair at salamat din Usec for mentioning the pending legislation here in Congress and in fact, bukod doon, mayroon ding long time pending case sa Korte Suprema to amend precisely the fiscal regime para bigyan ng mas malalaking shares compared lalo na sa foreign companies, bigyan ng mas malalaking shares yung mga local government units, mga mining affected communities at saka mga indigenous peoples kung saan, kung kaninong mga ancestral domains nakalocate yung pinka-highly mineralized na lupain natin dito sa Pilipinas. So since nabanggti na rin po, napag-usapan na rin natin, ano po ang status ng administration mining tax proposal na ipinasa noong August at the Committee level? ABENOJA: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Unfortunately, Madam Senator, I don't have the update here but if I recall from the side of the government, we have already provided all the inputs that were requested from the government side. SRH: That's right Usec, naprovide na ng executive lahat ng inputs pero totoo ba na sa House kung saan may mga key proponents din naman ang Maharlika, hindi pa nagkakaroon ng plenary deliberations on the new mining fiscal regimes mula noong maaprubahan ito sa committee level 5 months ago na almost half a year ago. Ano po ang nangyayari doon? ABENOJA: Mr Chair, Madam Senator, unfortunately, I'm not familiar with po at this time, we can get back to you on that. Thank you. SRH: Lastly, my request to the Chair, since we're trying to explore different points of view that the committee and our economic managers may hold and since we're not yet about to terminate the hearings,. may I respectfully move to request the Committee to invite the two additional resource persons or organization, one, the bankers association of the Philippines and secondly, the action for economic reforms. SENATOR MARK VILLAR: I think the Bankers Association of the Philippines is here now if you want to ask questions for them SRH: Thank you, Mr. Chair, kung ganoon, I was hoping kasi po that the BAP could weigh on the arguments we heard during the second committee hearing specifically on the possible effects on the financial system, if BSP, DBP and Landbank were to become the sources of funding for a Maharlika Fund. I think the Committee may also benefit from the BAP's comment of a proposition from one of their members who told me that a Maharlika fund will only undermine the glide back to a more manageable level of indebtedness projected in the government's medium term fiscal framework. Mr. Chair if they could be recognized. SMV: Atty Moncupa from the BAP your recognized sir. BAP MONCUPA: Good afternoon Mr. Chairman, Thank you Mr Chairman, your honors. I'm Antonio Moncupa, the president of the Bankers Association of the Philippines. Yeah you know our position paper commented on the proposal to include the BAP in the advisory board, now of course, we're hearing comments from our members and I tell you the bankers have separate comments on this spending bill in congress, n the Senate. One of the comments is that all the current contribution now coming from the Central Bank and may be PAGCOR have been generally part of the general fund so what we're saying is that if it goes to the sovereign wealth fund or the Maharlika fund it would mean that the either the government will be short of the funds that otherwise would have gone to the general funds or maybe the budget would need to be cut if the deficit should be maintained by way of cutting social services because right now it's been part and parcel of that, including that of the Central Bank, I think that what the good senator was commenting earlier. SRH: And it was also a concern being pursued by Sen Binay with PAGCOR? If you have additional comments specific doon sa isang comment i heard from a BAP leader kapagka nagkaroon na nga nitong Maharlika parang maiinterupt yung sabi niya glideback to a manageable level of indebtedness MONCUPA: Of course, when the deficit grows bigger then it's not good for the country because eventually the proportion of debt service becomes bigger relative to the social services which the government is supposed to provide, anything that enlarges the deficit that is not turn into a productive use by way of increasing the output, national output will be negative for future development of the country. If the funds would go otherwise the general funds will now be put to Sovereign wealth fund, the eventual effect will either be that, increase the deficit or we cut the services of the government. SRH: Ang projection nyo po kapag nainlusad ang Maharlika it will actually be the deficit creating or deficit worsening and lead to cuts in social protection spending of our country? of our government? MONCUPA: Actually it depends on where the funds be coming from. If the funds will be coming from sources that otherwise would have gone to the general fund and will be going to the general fund, the impact will be as mentioned. If there will be funds coming from other sources which are not part of the govermment funding at present then it would not cost a deficit to expand. I think that was also the last session that was mentioned by Mr Calixto Chikiamco that the funds are coming from other sources. SRH: Intimately-linked yung dalawang punto nyo. So it would seem na yung advice sa Komite namin based sa inputs nyo, ni Mr. Chikiamco would really be to explore more of alternative sources of funding for a Mahralika, baka maisasama na yung maibubunga ng, kung maipasa na, yung bagong batas tungkol sa fiscal regime sa mining. Maraming Salamat, Mr. Moncupa. One last follow up, there's a plan to hire a manager to manage a fund. Kung totoo ito, magmaterialize, would you think this would be necessary? MONCUPA: You know, I think the returns and risks are closely correlated. You get higher returns, if you take higher risks. and there's no shortcut about this. I think right now, Philippine fund managers are favorable as we've seen with DBP and Landbank. I was looking at their performance and I think through the years, they've shown the capacity to manage the funds by way if you look at the return equity that they've been registering. Now, in terms of investments, it's also some of the sad comments that we've been hearing, while we have not still in the position and I don't think I have also we should not take it a VP position, but maybe my opinion you should be asking, the investments that come in high return there is a of course no assurance that the returns are always there. Returns are computed based on historical performance. There is some mathematics involved but in general, those things happen but there's also it does not happen. The amount of returns that we get are commensurate to the risk we take. I think even Philippine managers if you give the risk parameters that you would give any other investors, there will be Filipino investors who will do the same thing. SRH: Salamat Sir and I seem to recall that the point about there are no high returns without high risks if I remember correctly was also made by Sen Gatchalian in the very first hearing. Thank you for elaborating on that, Mr. Moncupa. Lastly, Mr Chair, I was requesting the Chair could invite the AER or Action for Economic Regorms kasi sila po they sought and they got the signatures of some of the countries leading economists including five former NEDA secretaries when they first publicized their opposition but to the earliest version of the Maharlika Investment Fund. There have been many refinements in that first draft to the draft that has been presented to this committee and I think it would be useful to hear any reassessment that the AER might have formulated in light of the changes to the earliest draft of the Maharlika Bill submitted to the Congress. If the Chair would like to request and move to invite also the Action for Economic Reforms to the next hearing, I so move Mr Chair. SMV: We can invite them to the next we're scheduling a technical working group meeting already so we can invite them so that they could submit their paper and they can bring up their concerns.
There are three main groups that represent cattle producers across the country. Without getting too far into the weeds, the National Cattlemens Beef Association (NCBA) is the well-funded, well represented power player, R-CALF USA is a much smaller, grassroots group of fiercely independent ranchers who leverage litigation to attempt to move the needle, and the United States Cattlemens Association (USCA) is somewhere in the middle, with a strong lobbying presence and a belief in Country of Origin labeling for beef, a preference shared with R-CALF.

The three groups dont agree on every aspect of the industry, but last week they proved, once again, their shared commitment to animal health, food safety, and transparency.

U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Jon Tester (D-MT) reintroduced legislation to suspend Brazilian beef imports to the U.S. until experts can conduct a robust review of the commoditys impact on food safety and animal health. U.S. consumers enjoy the safest, most affordable, and most abundant food supply in the world, and its certainly true due in part to the rigorous food safety inspection process in this country. Consumers are also the beneficiaries of the serious commitment livestock producers and other professionals make to animal health and proper livestock handling.

Senators Rounds and Tester initially introduced the bill in 2021 after Brazil revealed two cases of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, more commonly known as Mad Cow Disease. According to releases from the USDA, the cases were discovered in June and not reported until November. Conversely, the United Kingdom and Germany both reported cases to the World Organization of Animal Health within days of occurrence that same year.

Brazils refusal to report cases for months or years continued with cases in 2012, 2014, and 2019. While the limited number of cases themselves may not indicate health issues in the Brazilian cowherd, the pattern of delayed reporting hints at a lackadaisical or disorganized food safety and animal health reporting system. This becomes even more concerning knowing the protocols, testing, and difficult decisions U.S. experts and producers are making to keep Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and African Swine Fever tamped down. In Colorado, about 80% of the states laying hens were destroyed to combat HPAI. Multiple reports of pork products seized at our borders that have tested positive for ASF have kept our nations hog herd making bacon safely. Tester and Rounds bill would impose a moratorium on Brazilian beef imports until a recommendation has been made by a group of food safety, animal health, and trade experts to allow the trade gates to open again. All three major cattle trade organizations weighed in on the bill, pointing out that several countries have already banned Brazilian beef imports; calling for all trade partners to be held accountable without exception; and aligning national security and food security to ensure all beef in the supply chain is safe.

And then, hours later, Brazil confirmed for the third time since 2021 an atypical BSE case has surfaced. In the releases Ive read, its unclear when the case was confirmed.

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Brazil not only has a huge slice of meat processing here in the U.S.  and Colorado, for that matter  they also run the worlds second largest cattle herd at 232 million head and are the worlds largest exporter of beef with about 20% of total global beef exports, according to the USDAs Economic Research Service.

China has historically been the largest importer of Brazilian beef, even with a since lifted, three-month embargo driven by BSE concerns, along with Hong Kong, South Africa, Iran, and Iraq, among others. Brazil is also the largest producer of halal meat, which opens tremendous demand in heavily populated Muslim markets where incomes are climbing and with it, demand for beef.

In the U.S., foreign beef comprises about 10-20% of total supplies. According again to the USDAs ERS, imported beef is more obvious to track, while beef on the hoof coming into the country is more difficult. Only some buyers and feeders have a business plan that allows them to feed imported cattle because, as a general rule, they are older and less efficient, require more days on feed, and quality grade lower. That said, a cattle feeder once told me that only the healthiest of cattle make it as far as a U.S. feedyard before natural selection sorts the herd. Most imports of livestock come from Canada and Mexico, though the two nations beef herds are different in many ways.

Our countrys cowherd is incredibly efficient, productive, healthy, and well managed and the need to import beef can be a sticking point for many producers. However, just as there are well-bred, well-fed cattle that are genetically superior and hang an impressive carcass, there is also a demand for drive thru ground beef tacos. There is room for different kinds of beef, but no tolerance for bad players when it comes to food safety and animal health.

Rachel Gabel is a longtime agriculture writer and the assistant editor of The Fence Post Magazine.
This is the uplifting and forward-thinking agenda of the six candidates for Colorado Republican state chairman:

Defend conspiracy theories that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from defeated Donald Trump including here in Colorado where he lost by 14 points.

Go to court to repeal the ability of 1.7 million unaffiliated voters to choose to vote in the Republican primary election while they would continue to receive the Democratic primary ballot.

End mail ballots and require voters to only vote in person at precinct locations on Election Day even though nearly 80 percent of voters proactively signed up for the permanent absentee ballot before all mail balloting was enacted.

Trying to justify this misguided agenda, some of these candidates invoke the cliche that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again after massive Republican losses in the past three elections. But these six candidates have their faces firmly planted in the rear view mirror as they cling to conspiracy theories and seek to roll back changes to the election process made by Colorado voters over the past decade.

Meanwhile, they all seem to be oblivious to the dramatic changes to the Colorado electorate over the past 12 years that resulted in the rejection of Republican candidates who were defined by Donald Trump.

After decades of roughly equal numbers of Democrats, Republicans and unaffiliated voters, Colorado is now 47 percent unaffiliated, 28 percent Democratic, and only 25 percent Republican.

Rather than trying to build a Colorado Republican Party that can support strong conservative candidates who can win general elections, these candidates are focused inward trying to make the party more pure in their image regardless of how irrelevant the party has increasingly become due to the stench of Donald Trumps incessant insistence the election was stolen from him.

Here are the contestants for state chair at the March 11 Colorado Republican State Committee meeting:

Erik Aadland declared the 2020 presidential election was rigged during his aborted campaign for the U.S. Senate before unsuccessfully running in the Seventh Congressional District. He strongly supports going to court to ban unaffiliateds from voting in the Republican primary.

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Kevin Lundberg is a former state legislator from Larimer County who unsuccessfully ran in the Second Congressional District. He believes the 2020 election was stolen from Trump and he wants to ban unaffiliateds from voting in the Republican primary.

Tina Peters is the former Mesa County Clerk who has been criminally indicted by a Republican District Attorney for illegally tampering with election equipment and she goes on trial in August. Later this month she is also being tried for defying a court order that banned videoing in a courtroom and she resisted arrest as she attempted to kick the police officers. Peters was soundly defeated in the Republican primary for Secretary of State in 2022.

Casper Stockham is described by Colorado Politics as a political consultant who ran four unsuccessful campaigns in three different U.S. House districts in the last decade. He was fined by the Federal Election Commission in 2022 for campaign finance violations.

Dave Williams served as a state representative from Colorado Springs before unsuccessfully challenging incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn in 2022. Williams led a petition effort in 2021 alleging that Trump was the victim of deep state conspiracies.

Aaron Wood led the Save Colorado Project rally outside Colorado Republican headquarters this past November where speakers declared they would rid the party of so-called RINOs (Republicans in Name Only), their favorite derogatory term for anyone who disagrees with them.

Speakers at the rally said RINOs were liars, traitors, whores and ass wipes. They even attacked current Colorado Republican State Chairwoman Kristi Burton Browns physical looks and alleged she had some work done on her face creating a plastic smile.

A few months later, one of the speakers at the rally suggested in an interview that, Its almost time to switch from ballots to bullets.

The choice for state chairman is no choice at all. Every one of these six candidates would drive the party into deeper oblivion with their conspiratorial, exclusionary and politically naive agendas that are already repelling a rapidly changing Colorado electorate.

Dick Wadhams is a former Colorado Republican state chairman who worked for the late U.S. Sen. Bill Armstrong for nine years before managing successful campaigns for U.S. Sens. Hank Brown and Wayne Allard, and Gov. Bill Owens.
Nearing the end of eight years of service, term-limited Colorado Springs Mayor John Suthers has much to celebrate. His booming city, in which he grew up, has set standards others can only hope to meet. It is no surprise the annual U.S. News & World Report survey has ranked Colorado Springs as the countrys most desirable large city for four straight years.

Though voters cannot elect Suthers again  which most would happily do  they can continue his competent leadership. To do so, simply elect Wayne Williams for mayor in the citywide election that concludes April 4.

Wayne is the only candidate who understands the issues and how to actually solve the citys challenges, Suthers declared in his enthusiastic endorsement of Williams.

During Suthers second term, municipal functionality accommodated an additional 50,000 residents. During the past eight years, the metropolitan areas gross domestic product grew by one-third, going from $30 billion to more than $40 billion annually.

The city is building, extending, widening and improving roads. The city attracts ethically conscious companies that create high-wage careers. Cranes symbolize vibrancy, as investors build apartments, office buildings and hotels.

In addition to the all-important U.S. News list, the city ranks high on dozens of best places to live and work. Forbes this year listed Colorado Springs among the 50 Best Places to Travel  in the world  among only 10 other American cities.

Williams has little to learn in his quest to keep us the best. Much like Suthers, he comes from the big leagues. Suthers became mayor after serving as Colorados attorney general, U.S. attorney and director of corrections. Williams ran for the City Council after serving as Colorado secretary of state and setting high new standards for election integrity and security.

We asked Williams and all other candidates to explain in one sentence their reason for seeking the office. Several gave impressive answers to our questions. Yet, Williams said it concisely and best.

I want to continue the great progress weve made under John Suthers, Williams said.

He would prioritize public safety, transportation, other public infrastructure and build on the economic vitality of our community.

As the former executive of a major state agency, and as a councilman who chairs the board of Colorado Springs Utilities, Williams works to improve the city and gets measurable results. He speaks with obvious knowledge about the intricate workings of a major utility, public safety and matters of local governance.

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Ive worked to acquire additional water rights, Williams told us, in discussing his role as the utilitys chair. Weve signed an agreement with Bent County to acquire 15,000-acre feet, which is enough for another 100,000 people. As part of that, were switching from the old buy-and-dry method to one that works in partnership with the Arkansas Valley. We are helping farmers to upgrade irrigation systems so we can buy the water that is saved.

Everyone wins, including the environment. Williams looks to create abundance and efficiency. Too many other politicians  call them zero-sum gamers  foresee inevitable scarcities with dark remedies of austerity. Pay farmers not to grow food, they say, so we can have more water. Williams doesnt think that way.

On nearly all subjects important to Colorado Springs, Williams speaks with vision and a clear understanding of moving parts, offering sober solutions to move us forward. He is not on a crusade to grow the city but respects the need for housing and jobs for all  not just those who got here first.

I believe this community can and should continue to grow, but we have to do it responsibly, Williams said. We must make sure that we have the water and other resources necessary for our population. And frankly, we have to prioritize existing residents.

Williams, like Suthers, eschews divisive and doctrinaire lines in the sand. Constituents need pragmatic solutions from leaders willing and able to hear all voices. Consider annexations that pit pro-growthers against no-growthers. Williams sees both sides.

I like annexation, but I think the first rule is you must have the resources to serve it, Williams told the editorial board. So, we have shifted from what I describe as absurd  a rule that says you can annex if there is sufficient water for the foreseeable future. I dont know what that means.

Williams voted with four fellow council members this month to require the city have 128% of the water needed to meet current needs and the additional demands caused by proposed annexation. In the simplest terms, it allows for growth while ensuring a surplus of water. It ties growth to a guarantee of responsible management and acquisition of water.

A recent poll shows 83% of the electorate supports the new ordinance, probably because it makes common sense.

Old cowboys implore, If it aint broke, dont fix it. Colorado Springs stands as the shining exception to the entropy that afflicts much of urban America. This city is not broken but should always improve. For public safety, economic stability and continued excellence, vote for Wayne Williams and his promise to continue the great progress.

The Gazette Editorial Board
When Denver resident Lori was diagnosed with Crohns disease at 40, her doctors outlined their plan to treat her symptoms and manage her incurable inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). She was incredibly relieved to know her agonizing pain and high fevers could soon be resolved. But Lori couldnt start her doctors recommended treatment right away  instead, her insurance company forced her to first try and fail another medication. This process is known as step therapy.

Also referred to as fail first, step therapy is an insurer-mandated process that overrules doctor recommendations and disregards a patients specific medical needs. Ultimately, its a time-consuming process that can lead to worsened health outcomes. As there are no federal exceptions to step therapy, countless patients on employer-based insurance plans in Colorado and nationwide are forced to delay critical medical therapies, forced to try insurer-preferred options first, with these decisions often not aligning with the recommendations of their providers.

Although certain states, including Colorado, have passed legislation to help residents on state-regulated insurance plans, about half of those who receive their insurance through their employer are in federally regulated plans. These patients can still be subjected to a long and arduous step therapy appeals process. To address this gap, Congress must pass the Safe Step Act, a bill requiring health insurance companies to establish exceptions for step therapy protocols in federally regulated plans. These exceptions would help many patients left without proper medication coverage for lengthy periods. We urge Sen. John Hickenlooper to co-sponsor the Safe Step Act.

As a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, Hickenlooper can help improve the lives of millions of Americans with chronic diseases by supporting this legislation. The Safe Step Act will create a transparent, expeditious appeals process, allowing patients to get timely access to medications they need.

When treating chronic diseases, experienced health care providers are experts in understanding which medications will work for their patients. Loris doctors recommended biologic therapy as her treatment, but her insurer refused to cover the medication until she first tried and failed steroids. In treating inflammatory bowel disease, steroids are best suited for short term use to help control symptoms, but they can be dangerous when used for prolonged periods. Conversely, biologics are one of the most effective treatment options for inflammatory bowel disease; they can increase remission rates, delay disease progression and reduce surgical complications.

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In Loris case, steroids did not resolve her symptoms. Loris doctors fought with the insurer for four months before getting approval for biologics, and it would take nine months to finally bring her disease under control. In that time, Crohns disease wreaked havoc on her digestive system. The high doses and prolonged steroid use caused kidney function issues, loss of bone density, significant weight gain, fatigue, and high blood pressure. She missed days of work, had no energy to see loved ones, and was physically unable to volunteer for her favorite nonprofits.

Waiting for insurer approval can lead to devastating consequences for patients. Debilitating symptoms of IBD include abdominal pain and cramping, fatigue, bloody stool, and rectal bleeding. Untreated or improperly treated IBD can also lead to serious, even life-threatening complications, like abscesses, bowel obstructions or perforations, and colorectal cancer. Some cases might require partial or complete surgical removal of the small or large intestine. Under the Safe Step Act, insurers will be required to respond in a timely manner to step therapy appeals, shortening the time spent by patients trying ineffective treatments. According to a survey of IBD patients, about 40% indicated they had been subjected to step therapy, and of those, 58% were required to fail two or more drugs before having access to the originally prescribed drug. Pediatric patients also suffer under step therapy. Our recent research has shown that prior authorizations and step therapy requests delayed the initiation of prescribed biologics, while also increasing the risks of hospitalization, surgery, and steroid use in pediatric patients with IBD.

Sen. Hickenlooper: we admire your commitment to ensuring all Americans can access high-quality, affordable health care. We urge you to champion our countrys chronic-disease patients. Your support of the Safe Step Act will help Coloradans and Americans get better care faster.

Michael Osso is the president and CEO of the Crohns & Colitis Foundation, the worlds largest public foundation dedicated to creating a world free from inflammatory bowel disease. Frank Scott, MD, MSCE, is an expert in inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Scott is an associate professor of medicine-gastroenterology at the University of Colorado.
Press Release

February 27, 2023 PRIVILEGE SPEECH OF SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS

February 27, 2023 FREE LEILA NOW! Mr. President, I rise on a matter of personal and collective privilege. One afternoon six years ago, anxiety enveloped the Senate as news that law enforcement agents were in the vicinities circulated. They were here to arrest our colleague, Senator Leila de Lima. February 24th po ang anibersaryo ng kanyang pagkapiit and in detention, former Senator Leila has survived public vilification, lewd innuendos on her supposed sex life, the ravages of a pandemic, turning 60 and thus becoming a "dual citizen", the death of loved ones, and a shocking hostage attack the details of which are still undergoing investigation. Last year po, sunod sunod na din ang mga recantation ng mga key witnesses. April 28th, 2022 - Drug lord Kerwin Espinosa retracted [1] his previous allegations that he had drug dealings with De Lima through Ronnie Dayan in the Bilibid, stating, in his sworn affidavit, that he was coerced, pressured, intimidated, and seriously threatened by the police.

April 30th, 2022 - Former Bureau of Corrections chief Rafael Ragos retracted his testimonies that he personally delivered money from Bilibid inmates to De Lima through Dayan on two occasions in 2012. He claimed that then-Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre coerced him "to admit something that did not happen."

May 13, 2022 - Ronnie Dayan, the former bodyguard of De Lima and a co-accused also recanted his allegations. He claimed he was told by the late House Justice committee chairman Reynaldo Umali to lie about receiving drug money for De Lima.

June 1, 2022 - De Lima's camp shared copies of the 2 counter-affidavits of Marcelo Adorco, another government witness, executed in 2020 and 2022, in which he also withdrew his testimonies against the senator. Adorco said he was forced to make the claims for fear of his life. Ang pinakamahalagang recantation ay yung kay Former Bureau of Corrections chief Rafael Ragos. Sa pagrecant ni Chief Ragos, there is no longer any evidence against Sen Leila to prove that she was involved in illegal drug trade in the Bilibid. There are other developments that bear upon the case of our former colleague, Mr. President. In Reyes vs. Director or Whoever is In-Charge of Camp Bagong Diwa, the Supreme Court granted Ms. Gigi Reyes's Petition for Habeas Corpus stating that her continued incarceration "has become oppressive thus infringing upon her right to liberty". It said that, "[w]hile the writ is generally not available to a person whose liberty is under custody of an officer under process issued by a court or judge, when such custody becomes vexatious, capricious, and oppressive amounting to an infringement on the constitutional right to speedy trial of an accused, the writ of habeas corpus may be provisionally availed of." The right to speedy trial, dear colleagues, is an actionable right. It is a right afforded to all citizens, and a right that Senator Leila may legitimately avail of. This is not about being in the opposition. This is not about the past or present administrations. *This is simply the invocation of a human right that all Filipinos are entitled to.* Mr. President, the oldest and largest organization of parliaments in the world, the Inter Parliamentary Union, has renewed its call for the release of Senator Leila. Kasama nila ang napakaraming local and international organizations that ask for the same release. If the Senate as a body can recommend the filing of charges against individuals and personalities that violate the laws of these land, surely it can recommend the dropping of charges against those who are victimized by these laws and those who need the law and the Constitution's protective mantle. A few days after we commemorated the 6th anniversary of her detention, I say Mr President, dear colleagues, and I hope you say with me --- FREE LEILA NOW. SALAMAT PO.
Homelessness has emerged as one the biggest issues early on in the Denver and Colorado Springs mayoral races, and Denver front-runner Kelly Brough and four other candidates have promised to take a harder line, vowing to involuntarily commit or arrest people who violate the citys camping ban.

As mayor, you still have an obligation to keep everyone safe. So if somebody cant make that decision for themselves, based on mental health or addiction issues, I still think we have an obligation as government to make it for them, Brough said in a recent debate.

In an interview with 9News, a news partner of The Denver Gazette, Brough said arresting someone who violates the urban camping ban would come as a last resort when that person has also declined resources, such as shelter, behavioral health treatment or relocation to a sanctioned camping site.

Denver candidates Kwame Spearman, Debbie Ortega, Andy Rougeot and Trinidad Rodriguez also support arrests or involuntary commitment to enforce the camping ban.

The tougher stance echoes a new policy announced recently by New York Mayor Eric Adams to give first responders more power to forcibly hospitalize people struggling with mental illness and homelessness.

The program is an effort to fulfill the law-and-order mayors promises to address the rise in subway crimes, which Adams said in October were driven by people with mental health issues, according to reporting by Reuters,

California and Oregon have taken similar steps to order more people into treatment with severe mental illness.

Adams new policy is based on a New York state law enacted in 2021 to allow first responders to involuntarily commit a person with mental illness who needs immediate care.

Colorado, however, doesnt have a similar law on the books yet, so Brough and other candidates promises may be premature. And it may make sense to see how New Yorks experiment plays out first before we here in Colorado start expanding the ability of first responders to do involuntary commitments.

Colorado right now has a much higher threshold for involuntary commitment.

Colorados law only allows a person to be involuntarily held for 72 hours for period of treatment and evaluation if he or she appears to have a mental illness and, due to the mental illness, appears to be an imminent danger to self or others, or appears to be gravely disabled. Gravely disabled means that a "mentally ill person is unable to make informed decisions about, or provide for essential needs without significant supervision and assistance.

The holds can be initiated by a police officer, medical professional or registered nurse or licensed social worker. A family member can request such a hold by contacting the county attorney, according to the law.

But only the executive director of the Colorado Department of Human Services can place someone who is taken into custody on a 72-hour hold into a mental health facility.

Once the 72-hour period has elapsed, the person must be released, referred for further care and treatment on a voluntary basis, or certified for short-term treatment," the law says.

Certified means that if the person doesnt agree to voluntary treatment the case goes to a court for further evaluation.

It is my understanding that New York can now skip that step of petitioning the court for long-term treatment. The evaluating professionals in this case will be the first responders on the streets. The big question is: Do they have the expertise to make involuntary commitment decisions?

And where do the patients go?

Authorities in Denver and Colorado Springs cant detain a homeless person or order them off the streets if there is not enough shelter space for them.

Brough has acknowledged that Denver needs to greatly expand its authorized homeless camping sites to make the policy legal.

Needless to say, the approach faces opposition. Many mental health advocates say that deploying the police as social workers may do more harm than good. Cathy Alderman, chief communications and public policy officer for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, told our reporter Jessica Gibbs that if Broughs plan leads to homeless individuals going to jail on allegations of violating the camping ban, that is wildly counterproductive.

This enforcement mentality against people experiencing homelessness hasnt worked, she said.

New Yorks policy immediately met legal challenges by mental health advocates, but has so far survived those. A judge ruled in early February that New York City can proceed with the directive.

My guess is that all the efforts to reduce homelessness over the years have been so ineffective and counterproductive that, despite opposition, a shift in the tides is coming that could soon see approaches cross the country that imitate New Yorks. Let's hope if Colorado does consider a similar law, we factor in family members or interested parties into the equation. Psychologists tell me the most successful cases of addiction rehab and mental illness treatment involve family members as advocates. The new law in California, for example, requires people with severe mental illness who refuse treatment to face conservatorship  which is when someone loses their independence and is appointed a guardian. Family members and friends are still probably a better bet for good decisions about care than police officers and government workers.

Psychiatrist E. Fuller Torrey of Bethesda, Md., has been a lonely voice advocating for a policy shift toward compulsory treatment for 40 years. He argues that it was a mistake for the country to shut down its public psychiatric hospitals without some sort of replacement.

The U.S. discharged hundreds of thousands of patients from public psychiatric hospitals in the 1970s after horrible conditions in them were revealed. One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest probably best captures the mood of those times. But Torrey foresaw that these former patients would cause our current homelessness problem. He warned 40 years ago that many former patients would be left wandering city streets untreated, describing them as a legion of the inner-city damned.

Torrey argues that involuntary commitment is a much more humane response than allowing people with severe mental illness to languish on the streets untreated, according to a recent profile in the New York Times.

The New York mayors adviser on the new policy has been in direct conversation with Torrey, following his recommendations to the letter.

Torrey began his quest for a better way to handle the mentally ill after the cause of his sisters schizophrenia was misdiagnosed as a result of family problems rather than a biological problem. Torrey went on to become a pioneer in the biological roots of schizophrenia.

I think the stakes are large, for the new approach in New York, he told the Times. Because if it fails, if you have no improvement at all, I think people give up for another decade, just live with it for another decade before somebody else comes along with a new idea.
Three years ago, the Colorado Springs semiconductor industry seemed to be on its last legs in the wake of Microchip plans to lay off more than 200 people from its aging local chip manufacturing plant and convert it to a specialty facility to make limited volumes of older products.

But the plant got a new start a year ago when Microchip began installing equipment at the plant, located near The Broadmoor World Arena on Colorado Springs' south side, to produce larger wafers that nearly doubled the number of chips the plant could produce.

The wafers produced by the new equipment were made with a new material, called silicon carbide, used in electric vehicles and the green energy, aerospace and defense industries.

The Microchip project is the largest of several expansions announced or planned by players in the local semiconductor industry. Industry supplier Entregris announced plans in December for a new plant in Colorado Springs. DpiX CEO Lindsay Pack said her company plans to seek a federal grant under new legislation enacted in August for a major expansion but is considering whether to complete the expansion in Colorado Springs or elsewhere.

The semiconductor industry has a long history in Colorado Springs, starting when NCR opened the first local chip plant off Fillmore Street with 12 employees in 1975. The plant Microchip operates was started by Honeywell in 1977, acquired by Atmel in 2009 and then Microchip in 2016. At the industrys peak, nine companies operated semiconductor manufacturing plants in Colorado Springs employing thousands of people and local boosters promoted the city as Silicon Mountain.

Most of the plants closed after chip manufacturing shifted overseas in the 1990s with the biggest blow coming when Intel closed its Colorado Springs plant in 2007. Microchip is the largest company still producing chips at a local plant, but dpiX operates a plant near the Colorado Springs Airport that manufactures semiconductors on large glass plates and on flexible, thin-film sensors that are used for digital X-rays and in antennas, sensors and other electronic products.

Colorado Springs-based Frontgrade Technologies does testing, packaging and special processing to turn silicon wafers it buys from other manufacturers into chips used in the space, defense and health care industries. New York-based private equity investment firm Veritas Capital acquired CAES, which employs 435 in Colorado Springs and 341 in three other locations, and renamed it Frontgade Technologies in January. A company spokesman said the company is hiring but declined to comment on whether Frontgrade is seeking or planning to seek federal grants to expand.

Massachusetts-based Entegris, which already operates another local plant, said it will spend up to $600 million to build what it called a manufacturing center of excellence on the Springs northwest side that could add as many as 600 jobs over the next several years. That facility will make critical products for Entegris Microcontamination Control and Advanced Materials divisions that are used to manufacture semiconductors, company officials said.

Pack said dpiX plans to decide by years end where it would build the expansion, which would double the size of the companys 140-person work force and require a sizable investment she declined to quantify. The Colorado Springs-based company also is seeking local and state incentives to help defray the cost of the expansion, which Pack said would allow dpiX to expand into new markets.

DpiX bought the former semiconductor manufacturing plant in 2006 for $7.65 million from LSI Logic, now called Broadcom, and spent $100 million upgrading the facility before moving its entire operation here in 2011. The company expanded into flexible, thin-film sensors three years ago.

While the cost of Microchips retooling announced in January 2022 totaled just $40 million and resulted in the company adding 50-75 to its local workforce, that project set the stage for the much larger retooling and expansion announced Feb. 17 that will cost $880 million and trigger another 400 hires over the next several years. That will boost the local Microchip workforce to more than 1,250, the most people the company has employed in Colorado Springs in nearly a decade.

We had 10 years of reduced needs of the semiconductors (produced at the plant) and that reversed shortly after the layoff as demand for our chips began rising for use in sustainability, electric vehicles and defense, said Rich Simoncic, senior vice president of Microchips analog power and interface business units.

The vast majority of the industrys production had moved overseas due to lower costs, but during the pandemic the industry realized that you couldnt depend on foreign sources. I am grateful to see these jobs returning to the U.S. We have come full circle, Simoncic said.

The chip industrys recovery began almost immediately after the layoff as demand surged for the older, lagging-edge products made at Microchips plants as a shortage of chips used in vehicles and other specialty applications fueled a huge surge in demand. At the same time, Microchip was looking to expand production of silicon carbide wafers from a plant it acquired when it paid $10.3 billion in 2018 to buy California-based Microsemi.

Much of Microchips newest expansion in Colorado Springs will install more equipment to produce silicon carbide wafers. The rare material has been used in electronic devices since the early 1900s, but wasnt used in semiconductors until the early 1990s and caught on slowly due to problems in producing silicon carbide synthetically and other production issues, according to the EE Times, a specialty publication covering the electronics industry.

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Its not cutting-edge technology in terms of geometry (small size of the circuits on a chip) but it produces high power with low energy usage and has a high switching frequency, which means that the chip doesnt get as hot (which reflects lost energy) when switching voltage, so it is more efficient, Simoncic said. This campus (in Colorado Springs) in an integral part of producing SiC (silicon carbide) technology to assure our customers with supply certainty as they transition to SiC solutions.

The market for silicon carbide chips is just in its early stages with sales totaling $1.1 billion in 2021, according to a March 2022 research report by French market research and consulting firm Yole Intelligence. But the company forecasts the silicon carbide market will grow to more than $6 billion by 2027, mostly for automotive, industrial and energy applications such as solar energy and fast charging stations for electric vehicles.

Strongly driven by automotive applications, especially in the electric vehicle (EV) main inverter (a device that coverts DC power supplied from batteries to AC power used by the motor), there were multiple newly released EVs and announcements in 2020 and 2021, following Teslas adoption of SiC, said Poshun Chiu, technology and market analyst specializing in semiconductors for Yole.

To fulfill the demand for a long driving range, an 800-volt EV is the solution to empower fast direct current (DC) charging. This is where the 1,200-volt SiC devices play crucial roles.

Semiconductor manufacturers have responded by expanding capacity to build silicon chips. Wolfspeed opened the worlds largest plant to produce silicon carbide chips in April in upstate New York and the company announced in December plans for a second plant in North Carolina. Onsemi announced plans in August for a silicon carbide materials plant in New Hampshire and a month later began expanding its silicon carbide chip plant in the Czech Republic.

Microchip introduced its first silicon carbide chip family in 2019, citing growing demand for products that improve system efficiency, robustness and power density in automotive, industrial and aerospace and defense applications. That made the Colorado Springs plant a good fit for expanding its silicon carbide production since the 580,000-square-foot facility also produced silicon-based chips for those same industries and had plenty of room to manufacture new products.

The latest expansion is a result of a series of economic development incentives offered for five different projects Microchip began considering early last year, said Kelly Leaverton, senior vice president of operations for the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce & EDC. Before he was promoted early this month, he had been vice president of defense and economic development and director of business retention and expansion, working on the Microchip projects.

The chamber had been working with Microchip since October 2018 in some form or fashion to create the building blocks for the project our community won today (Feb. 17); we announced a significant, but much smaller expansion for Microchip in early 2022. Shortly after, Colorado Springs and El Paso County were in the running in competition with Oregon, New York, Arizona and Virginia for an expansion (code-named Project Salsa/Dorito) that we did not win, Leaverton said.

Project Salsa was an expansion costing between $1.5 billion and $2.5 billion that would have added 640 jobs to Microchips local workforce, but the project was canceled late last year when the company instead decided to buy chips from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing made at a new set of plants planned in the Phoenix area. Project Dorito was a smaller, separate expansion planned by Microchip, but no investment or employment numbers are available for it.

Microchip will receive $47 million in state and local incentives that include state tax credits, rebates of sales and use tax the company will pay on the equipment purchased for the retooling and expansion project and a grant from a special deal-closing fund administered by the chamber.

The company also is seeking the same type of federal grant dpiX is seeking as well as investment tax credits, both made available from the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act signed into law by President Joe Biden in August.

The act provides $52.7 billion for American semiconductor research, development, manufacturing and workforce development, including $39 billion in manufacturing incentives, plus a 25% investment tax credit for capital expenses for manufacturing semiconductors and related equipment. The bipartisan legislation was designed to convince semiconductor manufacturers to move production back to the U.S. to combat a worldwide chip shortage.

A study by the Semiconductor Industry Association, an industry trade group, showed that the legislation has spurred plans for nearly 50 new plants or expansions by chip manufacturers or suppliers that will cost nearly $200 billion and create about 40,000 additional jobs in the industry. The list includes the Microchip expansion in Colorado Springs and the Entegris project.

The latest expansions should bolster Colorados place in the semiconductor industry  the state ranks 16th in the nation in industry employment with 2,900 workers receiving $1.4 billion a year in wages and 17th in the number of chip facilities or companies with 29, the semiconductor group said.

The early returns on the CHIPS Act have been very positive, involving a huge amount of announced company investments and jobs. Now the new law must be implemented in an effective, efficient, and timely manner to maximize its impact and reinvigorate chip production and innovation in America for many years to come, said Robert Casanova, the associations director of industry statistics and economic policy.

Colorado Springs used to be a semiconductor hub but a lot of the manufacturing that took place here has been off shored," said Pack, the dipX CEO. "Many of the benefits the community offered for the industry are still there, and we are seeing that now as the reason why people in the semiconductor industry are now investing in Colorado Springs."

We have an opportunity to reinvigorate the industry with the companies that are remaining," she said. "But we will need to look at how we are investing in higher education and even high school to develop the workforce the industry needs.
Earlier this month, Colorado's Supreme Court justices appeared less than enthusiastic about adopting a proposal that aims to curb lawyers' ability to remove people of color from criminal juries for reasons related to their race.

During a nearly three-hour hearing, prosecutors from across the state uniformly lined up to condemn the suggested change, with some alleging it amounts to "affirmative action" for juries. Meanwhile, defense attorneys, trial judges and the NAACP  those who spoke were Black, Latino, Asian, as well as white  urged the justices to take action to halt more subtle forms of racial bias in the justice system.

In response, some members of the court bristled at the push to enshrine the proposed implicit bias protections into its procedural rules.

"Weve already been called racist for not immediately adopting these rules," said Justice Melissa Hart. "And Im not happy about it. Im really uncomfortable with some of these changes."

For more than 35 years, the U.S. Supreme Court has recognized that intentional race-based discrimination in jury selection is unconstitutional. Following the court's 1986 decision in Batson v. Kentucky, in which state prosecutors removed all of the Black people from a Black defendant's jury, judges now must evaluate whether a lawyer has provided a "race-neutral" reason for excusing, or striking, a juror of color when one of the parties raises a "Batson challenge."

In contrast to for-cause strikes, which occur when a juror cannot be fair and unbiased, Batson challenges arise through the use of a mechanism called peremptory strikes. Typically, parties to a case do not need to provide a reason when removing a juror with a peremptory strike during jury selection. In the face of a Batson challenge, they do.

But when an attorney, usually for the defense, raises a Batson challenge, judges may nonetheless allow prosecutors to remove a juror of color for reasons that may correlate with race  like having poor experiences with police  yet are race-neutral on the surface.

Denver County Court Judge Olympia Z. Fay, who testified to the Supreme Court in favor of the rule change, estimated she has presided over 100 jury trials and ruled on a half-dozen Batson challenges. Under Batson's existing standard, Fay said prosecutors have been able to cite race-neutral reasons when asked to justify their action.

"But the effect of it is to get that juror of color kicked off the jury," she said.

Multiple attempts at addressing bias

The proposal to change procedural Rule 24 would expand on the existing constitutional prohibition against intentional discrimination and build new safeguards for less obvious race-motivated strikes.

As presented, the rule contains multiple reasons that are presumed to be invalid for striking jurors of color. Those include a juror's stated distrust of law enforcement or belief that police engage in racial profiling, as well as living in a "high-crime neighborhood" or not being a native English speaker. Demeanor-based reasons, such as a juror failing to make eye contact, would also be invalid without corroboration from other parties in the courtroom.

Instead of Batson's standard of purposeful racial discrimination, the change to Rule 24 would also direct trial judges to examine whether an "objective observer could reasonably view" race as a factor in an attempted juror strike.

"In the last eight or 10 years, theres been some recognition in some of the appellate courts around the country that the purposeful discrimination test of Batson v. Kentucky has not fulfilled its promise, as far as trying to enhance greater participation by racial minorities," testified Court of Appeals Judge John Daniel Dailey, who chairs the criminal rules committee that brought the proposal forward. "So, therefore, they've looked for other ways to consider, and other possible proposals to enhance, the participation of racial minorities."

But the prosecutors who testified, all of whom appeared to be white, blasted the implicit bias proposal as one that would slant juries in favor of defendants by ensuring people who distrust police will decide criminal cases.

"The phrase that comes to mind is its affirmative action in jury selection," said Christian Champagne, the elected district attorney for La Plata, San Juan and Archuleta counties.

"Any prosecutor is naturally gonna be afraid to ever use the strike again" against a person of color, added Johanna Coats of the Denver District Attorney's Office.

"I think that is the goal," interjected Hart.

The Washington Supreme Court became the first state court to adopt an implicit bias rule in 2018, and California followed suit legislatively. Colorado's criminal rules committee attempted to propose a similar rule in 2021, but the Supreme Court declined to consider it, citing a lack of consensus among the committee.

Last year, four Democratic lawmakers introduced legislation resembling the Washington rule, but withdrew the bill in the face of solid opposition from Colorado's 22 elected district attorneys. Instead, they urged the criminal rules committee to try again to enact a Washington-style rule judicially.

The committee subsequently voted, 8-4, to send the Rule 24 changes to the Supreme Court for consideration. Defense lawyers and trial judges on the committee joined together in the majority, while representatives of district attorneys' offices voted against it.

During the public hearing and through written comments, prosecutors lobbed multiple criticisms against the rule change: Getting jurors of color to show up in the first place should be the focus. Better training will address lawyers' bias. Attorneys will find a way to dismiss jurors of color anyway. The proposal is racist itself.

"I thought the courtroom was to be color-blind, not color obsessed," wrote retired Denver District Court Judge Morris B. Hoffman, who added the rule change is "woke window dressing."

'You should not use a peremptory challenge'

Earlier this year, prior to the Rule 24 hearing, the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys sent its counterpart in Colorado, representing the state's district attorneys, a summary of appellate cases so far that have interpreted its own implicit bias guidance, known as General Rule 37.

The analysis from King County prosecutor Kristin Relyea also contained a piece of advice.

"I have no idea what the landscape looks like in Colorado," she noted, "but if it appears that adopting a similar rule has momentum, then I think prosecutors would be best served by joining the movement and drafting a rule that avoids some of the pitfalls and unanswered questions that weve had to sort through."

The Washington Court of Appeals has taken up General Rule 37 cases on multiple occasions, sometimes upholding prosecutors' decisions to strike jurors of color and other times finding jurors were improperly removed  including the sole Black person in a jury pool who expressed skepticism of the justice system based on personal experience and an Asian woman who the defense attorney tried to excuse because she made him "feel uncomfortable."

Some prosecutors in Colorado singled out one decision, State v. Orozco, as problematic. John Kellner, district attorney for the 18th Judicial District in metro Denver, testified the case was emblematic of the "absurd results" of an implicit bias rule.

In Orozco, a trial judge allowed prosecutors to strike the only Black woman from the jury pool after the prosecutor disclosed that he had pursued charges against her previously for minor offenses. The Washington Court of Appeals overturned the defendant's murder conviction after determining the strike violated General Rule 37.

Colorado prosecutors who commented to the Supreme Court claimed the decision meant the government cannot remove a juror even if they had personally been prosecuted by one of the lawyers in the courtroom. In reality, that was not why the defendant's convictions were overturned.

It was only because the prosecutor had elaborated that the Black juror was allegedly associated with people involved in criminal activity  a presumptively-invalid reason under the implicit bias rule  that the appellate court issued its reversal.

"In my personal opinion," Relyea wrote to her Colorado counterparts, "the takeaway is that you should not use a peremptory challenge to strike a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, person of color) juror because there is a strong likelihood that your case will be reversed on appeal."

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More data needed?

Some members of the Supreme Court noted a lack of data documenting the frequency of juror strikes against people of color. Instead, there was only anecdotal information from the legal community in Washington and Colorado. Justice William W. Hood III suggested those experiences may be enough to justify the implicit bias proposal.

"I think all of the trial judges (on the rules committee) who have collectively presided over hundreds of trials, to a one, thought this rule change made sense," he mused.

But when it comes to data collection, Hart countered, "would one good first step be for us to do that? To try to figure out where is the problem before we come up with a solution?"

"For communities of color, were always waiting for studies and for somebody to find out something in order to support the anecdotal evidence that we know exists," responded Joyce Akhahenda, a public defender and representative of the Sam Cary Bar Association, a professional group for Black attorneys. "That was the same issue with police brutality cases until we had video cameras."

In recent years, Colorado Politics has reported on multiple criminal appeals involving the dismissal of jurors of color, in which prosecutors' race-neutral reasons could have faltered under the proposed standard:

 An Arapahoe County prosecutor struck a Hispanic woman who talked about racial profiling in law enforcement.

 An El Paso County prosecutor struck a Black woman for the "sour look on her face."

 An Arapahoe County prosecutor struck a Black woman for "often staring up above, staring not at the ceiling but off into the distance."

 Weld County prosecutors struck the only Hispanic man because he "appeared very disinterested."

 Adams County and El Paso County prosecutors struck the only Hispanic person and the only Black man, respectively, based on incorrect claims of what the jurors actually said.

 An Arapahoe County prosecutor struck three Black jurors in a row from a Black defendant's trial, including one who had negative experiences with police.

 Weld County prosecutors struck a Hispanic man for his poor experience with police and a Hispanic woman because she "didn't seem fully engaged."

 An El Paso County prosecutor struck a Black juror who had negative experiences with law enforcement.

A 'blatant example of bias'

Some of the most concrete testimony about the effect of the rule change came from trial judges.

Fay, of the Denver County Court, said she sees prosecutors offer reasons for striking jurors of color that the new procedures would strongly discourage. Fay indicated jurors generally do not state explicitly they will be unfair to police officer witnesses.

"Its much more subtle than that. Its 'the police officers are in my neighborhood.' 'When I see them, theyre behaving a certain way and Im not sure I can always believe them when they say something,'" she said.

Judge Chelsea Malone, also of the Denver County Court, told the story of a prosecutor who struck a Hispanic man from a jury pool without questioning or talking to him. The prosecutor explained their colleagues had looked up the juror and found he had a criminal history. Malone asked if the prosecutor had done the same with any of the other jurors. "No" was the response.

"I havent seen a more blatant example of implicit bias in jury selection," she said.

Members of the Supreme Court were most hesitant about two specific elements of the proposal: allowing trial judges to decide if an observer simply "could" view race as a factor and making the distrust of law enforcement an invalid reason to excuse a juror, without more.

"A juror who expresses great trust in law enforcement could readily be excused on a peremptory by the defense," said Justice Monica M. Marquez. "That strikes me as an asymmetry that ends up disfavoring the prosecution, favoring the defense."

Defense lawyers and trial judges countered that the prosecution should spend time talking with a juror who is skeptical of police in order to understand whether that viewpoint is intertwined with their race.

For that to happen, argued Portia Prescott of the NAACP's Colorado Montana Wyoming State Area Conference, jurors of color need to feel comfortable even entering the courthouse. Knowing that there is less of a chance a lawyer will remove them from a jury, she said, could increase the willingness to respond to a juror summons.

"When I'm walking into a room with all white people, theres a feeling that I have to over-qualify myself to just be in the room, standing," Prescott said. "If we're making it easier and safer to respond to it as opposed to saying, 'Well, girl, if you take that day off, Im sorry, youre gonna get kicked out anyway. So, why lose a whole days worth of work if you know they're going to kick you out?'"

What about gender, religion or status as crime victim?

Some prosecutors suggested the Rule 24 revisions should encompass bias more broadly, discouraging lawyers from striking jurors based on their gender, sexual orientation or religion. The justices also questioned whether someone's status as a crime victim, which could also correlate with race, should be an additional presumptively-invalid reason for removing them.

Kevin McGreevy, a member of the rules committee who authored the proposal, said one prosecutor had, in fact, made the latter suggestion during deliberations, but eventually withdrew it.

Finally, members of the court repeatedly asked whether abolishing peremptory challenges altogether would be preferable. Many witnesses said yes, but it would require a change to state law.

Still, the trial judges who testified felt as though they could administer the new process for Batson challenges, even if it takes longer to hear jurors explain their points of view.

District Court Judge Vincente G. Vigil of Weld County volunteered that, growing up, he harbored a distrust of law enforcement. But now, during bench trials in which Vigil acts as the jury, he can decide criminal cases fairly when a police officer appears in front of him. He supported adopting the implicit bias rule.

"I dont think its enough to just talk about it. I dont think its enough to acknowledge it," Vigil said. "I think we have to take a step forward."
DES MOINES  Iowa House Republicans plan on moving a bill that would put limits on planned carbon dioxide pipeline constructions out of a committee before a key legislative deadline this week.

The bill is one of several high-profile bills that must to pass a full committee vote before the funnel deadline Friday, after which only bills that have been passed out of a committee can be considered.

Budget and tax policy bills are exempt from the funnel, and legislative leaders have ways to maneuver if they want to introduce new bills or bring back old bills later in the session.

House Speaker Pat Grassley, R-New Hartford, said he expects the pipeline bill will pass through the Judiciary Committee this week.

We didnt file a bill without trying to move it forward, he told reporters on Thursday. Thats not our expectation.

The bill would prevent pipeline companies from receiving eminent domain authority unless they have secured 90% of the route of the pipeline through voluntary easements and blocks the projects until a federal regulator announces new safety regulations.

It also requires the companies to be in compliance with all local zoning ordinances along the path, receive permits from other states along the route before being granted one in Iowa, and provides more compensation options for landowners who do have their land taken through eminent domain.

But its chances of being considered in the Senate are unclear, where other pipeline proposals have not been given hearings.

Other prioritiesGrassley didnt name other specific bills that he expects to pass through the committees next week, but he said the House will be advancing some of Republicans priority bills ahead of the funnel.

Weve laid out a lot of pieces early in session that were priorities, he said. Some of those have seen action, some have not. So I think youre just going to see a broad amount of bills.

Democrats criticized the bills that have already gone through the committee process or are on the docket next week as unproductive and ignoring the needs of Iowans.

While the Republican majority has been focused on things like banning books and punishing teachers in the classroom and sending public money to private schools, weve been ignoring critical issues like child care, health care access, affordable housing and the things that Iowans really care about, House Democratic leader Jennifer Konfrst of Windsor Heights told reporters on Thursday.

LGBTQ, book topics

Iowa Republicans have moved several bills that would limit instruction around gender identity and sexual orientation in schools and require parental notification if a student wants to go by a different set of pronouns, but a similar proposal from Gov. Kim Reynolds has not yet cleared a committee.

A subcommittee advanced Reynolds Senate Study Bill 1145 on Thursday, which would prohibit teaching about gender identity and sexual activity in kindergarten through third grade and would require schools to tell parents if they believe a student is transgender.

It also hits on school transparency and library book rules that Republicans have been considering this year. It would put any book successfully removed from one school library on a statewide removal list that requires parents permission to check out at all other schools in the state, and requires school districts to put their course materials online.

Senate Minority Leader Zach Wahls, D-Coralville, said the bill proposes heavy-handed requirements that go against basic Iowa values.

It will require more school bureaucracy that will not accomplish the bills stated purpose of more parental involvement, he said.

Grassley said the bills restricting LGBTQ topics and library materials at schools are being introduced with the goal of involving parents in education and keeping instruction age appropriate.

A lot of times our objectives in these pieces of legislation are empowering the parents to be able to make these kinds of decisions for and with their students, Grassley said.

Drug sales

Reynolds and Attorney General Brenna Bird, both Republicans, proposed separate bills that would increase the charge for a drug sale that results in a death, but the proposals are likely to be combined before moving through a committee next week.

Sen. Brad Zaun, R-Urbandale, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee said this week Birds office was planning to submit an agreement between the two bills, but he said he hadnt seen the proposal as of Thursday.

We are going to run a bill, I would probably guess it will probably be the governors bill because it was more expansive than the attorney generals, he said.

Reynolds bill, House Study Bill 104, would heighten penalties for selling fentanyl. It would also triple the sentence for the sale of a drug that results in the death of another person. A person who manufactures drugs in the presence of a minor would be subject to twice the sentence.

The bill also expands the availability of naloxone, a drug used to reverse the effects of an overdose.

I think its actually a stronger bill by the time we brought the two together, Reynolds told reporters last week. They had some great enhancements to the language that we put in place.

Child labor laws

Republicans must decide whether to advance a proposal to relax Iowas child labor laws.

Under the proposal, 16- and 17-year-olds could serve drinks in a bar or restaurant, and 14- through 17-year-olds could work in manufacturing, meat lockers and construction, with parental consent and a state waiver.

Each of the twin bills, Senate File 167 and House Study Bill 134 has passed out of subcommittee, but neither has been approved by the chambers respective committees  on workforce in the Senate and commerce in the House.

Republicans who approved the proposals in subcommittee said the bills would help businesses find workers in a tight employment market and to help young Iowans become more engaged in work.

Were going to end up with a generation of skilled leaders because of these efforts, said Sen. Jason Schultz, R-Schleswig.

Democrats who opposed the proposal warned that it could be perilous to allow younger Iowans to work in some of the jobs permitted in the bills.

My hope is that this bill does not advance through the funnel this next week and then we can get back to focusing kids on actually having rewarding, enriching childhoods and that their employment opportunities are age-appropriate and are safe, Wahls said.

Tom Barton of the Courier Des Moines Bureau contributed to this story.
CEDAR RAPIDS  Donations to Iowas Fish/Wildlife fund, informally called the Chickadee Checkoff, fell nearly 15% last year but have been gradually shrinking since the fund was created in the early 1980s.

Study and support for Iowas nongame animals, including songbirds, turtles, frogs, owls and salamanders, is needed more than ever as many species decline in numbers, mostly because of lost habitat.

North America has lost nearly 30% of its birds  about 3 million  since the 1970s, according to a 2019 article in the journal Science.

There is a lot of vulnerable wildlife we still dont have a good feel for how they are doing, said Stephanie Shepherd, a wildlife diversity biologist for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that when the Iowa Legislature created the Chickadee Checkoff in 1982, Iowans were eager to check that box on their state income tax forms, Shepherd said. That year, Iowans donated $238,477  which would be more than $700,000 today.

Over the years, more checkoff programs were added for taxpayers to make donations to other causes  including the Iowa State Fair Foundation; Firefighters Preparedness Fund and Veterans Trust Fund; and Child Abuse Prevention. These checkoffs are listed in contribution line 57, under Step 9, on the Iowa 1040 individual income tax form.

But more than 90% of Iowans file their individual income taxes online, the Iowa Department of Revenue reported, and it may be harder to find the checkoff line through online programs. Of online filers in Iowa, 65 percent hire a tax preparer, who isnt likely to ask whether taxpayers want to donate through the checkoff, Shepherd said.

They are trying to help people get through this process most people dont enjoy as quickly as possible, she said.

Iowans who want to donate through the checkoff should tell their tax preparer in advance. But if they forget, Iowa now has an online site where people can make donations directly to the Wildlife Diversity Program.

The programs donors have steadily declined in number over the years from nearly 13,000 in 2003, the first year the Iowa DNR tracked the number of donors, to 6,269 for tax year 2021.

Those donors were extra generous in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic made outdoor spaces some of the only safe areas for recreation and socializing. About 7,200 donors gave an average $24 donation that year, which resulted in $175,000 for the Wildlife Diversity Program.

Average donation amounts were about the same in 2021, but there were 1,000 fewer donors. Just under $150,000 was raised.

The Chickadee Checkoff was the first dedicated state funding to the Wildlife Diversity Program, which also gets half of the revenue from sales of natural resources license plates. The Iowa DNR also uses some hunting and fishing license fees to support nongame animals.

Iowas five Wildlife Diversity program staff members work with land managers to make sure they are incorporating practices that support nongame animals. Staff lead surveys of bald eagles, frogs and toads and the rusty patched bumblebee to see how these species continue to fare in Iowa.

Program staff put up nesting boxes for barn owls, endangered in Iowa, and do educational programming, among other activities.

If the Wildlife Diversity program had more money, there could be more staff spread around the state rather than be based only in Boone; it could work with cities to make them more friendly to birds and butterflies; and update publications, some of which havent been refreshed since the early 1990s, Shepherd said.
The new owners of a Des Moines hotel were recently granted a license after a state inspector found rodent droppings, soiled bedding and animal feces in the guest rooms.

During a Jan. 26 visit, state inspectors cited the Super 8 hotel at 4685 NE 14th St., Des Moines, for 12 violations  an unusually high number.

The visit was considered part of a routine, pre-opening inspection due to the hotel having changed ownership. Along with the nearby Baymont Inn & Suites, the Super 8 had been sold by Serenity Hospitality to Relianse Iowa in December 2022.

For a period of time, both hotels were operating without a valid license while owned by Relianse Iowa, a company that was formed last August as part of Relianse Global, a Texas company that invests in hotels and retail properties.

Relianse Iowa had been given until Dec. 30, 2022, to apply for a license for the Super 8 and to pay all of the related fees, but after failing to meet that deadline the company agreed to keep the Super 8 closed until the business was considered ready for inspection and reopening.

A state inspector happened to be visiting the nearby Baymont Inn & Suites on Jan. 26 when he noticed the Super 8 was open and had resumed hotel operations, despite the fact that it still had no license. When the inspector inquired about this and initiated an inspection, the general manager agreed to get online and apply for a license and pay all of the associated fees.

Although the inspection resulted in a dozen citations for violations, the license application was approved that day by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.

The inspector examined seven of the hotels 64 guest rooms. In room 254, the inspector reported evidence of rodent activity, with mouse droppings found on the two beds and on a chair. In addition, the mattress protector on one of the two beds showed signs of chew marks. The owner agreed to close the room to guests until he could provide documentation showing the room had been cleaned, sanitized and treated by a commercial pest control company.

In room 149, the inspector found food from a previous guest inside the refrigerator. In room 154, dog feces were observed on the wall near a window, the bathroom ceiling vent was visibly soiled, and there was debris of some kind on the lip of the bathtub. In room 155, the bed sheets were visibly stained and the glass window was broken.

In room 237, the deadbolt on the door of the guest room was missing and there were visible stains and debris on the walls. In room 252, the chair was visibly stained and the bathroom ceiling vent was visibly soiled. In room 246, there were visible stains and debris on the walls.

The inspector also noted water damage on the ceiling of a stairwell, and reported that the soffit in one area of the building was in disrepair and falling off. In the laundry room, the pipes behind the washing machines were severely leaking, the inspector reported, and there was water pooling on the floor.

Other hotels cited

Other Iowa hotels cited for violations in the past month include:

City Center Motel, 1138 State St., Bettendorf  During a Jan. 27 visit, Scott County inspectors cited the owners for several violations, including a bedbug-infested mattress and box spring and other debris found on the premises. The manager was advised to keep the property cleaned and maintained. The inspector also noted that the storage rooms were littered with debris, mouse droppings and clutter. The owner was advised to remove all items no longer in use. The motel was also cited for guest room bedding that was stained and torn. In addition, mouse droppings were found in the motels mechanical room. According to the inspector, most of the rooms were being rented for long-term stays, with only five of the 30 rooms treated as short-term motel rooms. Three of those five rooms were inspected.

Best Western Pioneer & Suites Hotel, 2110 W St., Grinnell  During a Jan. 31 visit, an inspector cited the establishment for operating without a valid license and for failing to post guests rights and the room rates. The hotel had undergone a change in ownership in August 2022 and had been operating without a license since that time. As part of the visit, six of the 57 guest rooms were inspected.

Days Inn & Suites, 1901 Hackley Ave., Des Moines  During a Feb. 7 inspection, the manager agreed to temporarily halt food service in the lobby due to imminent health hazards. The inspection was conducted in response to a non-illness complaint. The inspector wrote in his report that the halt in food service was triggered by the facility being unable to properly sanitize dishes and being unable to provide a handwashing sink for the staff. In addition, the hotel was cited for not having a certified food protection manager in charge and for failing to ensure handwashing and the sanitization of utensils. Three days later, the inspector returned for a scheduled inspection and cited the hotel for six additional violations, including the inability of the manager to establish proper concentrations of sanitizing solution. Normal food-service operations were allowed to resume.

Photos: North Iowa history book, 1940s-1960s 1962 Band Festival Hamilton basketball South Federal Avenue 1961 McDonald's Drive-in MCHS wins championship Lock store Hawke hemp farm Gone with the Wind Federal Avenue at night 02-23-1949.jpg Main and State streets Christian Church fire Navy books 1962 Band Festival Tug of War in East Park Officers find ammunition in car
Partisan Americans agree on very little. The more partisan, the less agreement which becomes an absence, in fact an intolerance, of compromise. Big surprise, huh?

I don't think it's a stretch to say that those igneous and combustible counterpoints portrayed as irreconcilable, sets the tone for the unyielding and obstinate discord across the spectrum of all policy decisions essential for America's continuance.

The beauty of democracy has also been its undoing.

Last week I struggled to come up with an adequate word to capture the animus and malice we chuck as stones at each other daily.

I found what I was looking for. That word is ressentiment, and its definition describes the darkness and ill will Americans have towards each other.

Yet, branding what is happening amongst us doesn't really help defeat the graveness of the outcomes. The missing link is "why", on a societal scale, we find it easier to hate than to help. Without answering "why" there are no roads to solutions, as there will never be compromise.

So what is that common denominator that has to exist and runs through the fabric of the American experience?

I think it really boils down to "rights;" real and perceived, self-defined, and defined and applied, and denied, to others inconsistently and with bias.

As the incendiary incongruence intersects with American divisiveness, the battle grounds are drawn, and loggerheads created by:

 Rights I believe I have versus rights you believe I do not have.

 Rights you believe you have versus rights I believe you do not have.

 Rights I believe are granted me by the Constitution and in fact may or may not be.

 Rights you believe are granted you by the Constitution and in fact may or may not be.

Basic human rights are so ill defined that nations of the world cannot agree upon a uniform and unbiased rendering as to what "rights" are ironclad and inalienable.

I was reminded recently through a comment from a reader, that if America looks over her shoulder, this nation has never considered nor valued each other's most partisan views nor each other's self-defined sacred rights. In fact from the 1770's federalists vs. anti-federalists, the 1800's abolitionists vs. slaveholders and Native American rights vs. Manifest Destiny forward to the 20th Century and beyond, limiting the rights of others in the name of self, has always been part of America's narrative.

Leading up to the Civil War, there were beatings and canings, fist-fights and stabbings, duels challenged and accepted, firearms, sabers and knives brandished, and also murder, right on the floor of the House of Representatives.

In the 21st century this repulsive and unpalatable Victorian bravado has morphed into social media stonings and assassinations of each others character and humanity.

Same story  different day.

In retrospect, the American Story, at the very base individual level, has always been, "My rights are important  Yours are not."

Since we've had three centuries of mixed success in defining ironclad human rights, I decided to get a little help.

I don't know if you have been following it closely, or at all, folded in with stories of Chinese spy balloons, secret visits to the Ukraine and classified documents turning up everywhere to include public restrooms, but our friends at Microsoft have released an artificial intelligence platform that is all the rage and the belle of the ball.

Microsoft subsidiary OpenAI has released ChatGPT for public use about six months ago. I have read accounts of amazing yet troubling uses of this program from students using it to grind out homework assignments with one keystroke, to pastors using it to write their sermons in the blink of an eye.

So hey, let's get ChatGPT in it's access to the sum total of all human knowledge, to inform us what inalienable human rights Americans are bestowed. Anyway, we apparently need a mediator after 300 years of trying.

So I asked ChatGPT, "What are the fundamental inalienable rights bestowed upon Americans?"

In the order delivered Carnac the Magnificent of the Artificial Intelligence world tells us:

 The right to freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and the press

 The right to keep and bear arms

 The right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures

 The right to due process of law and a fair trial

 The right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment

 The right to vote

 The right to equal protection under the law

For a multi-billion dollar AI program, I was expecting a little more than a rehash of Mrs. Ryan's 1960's fourth grade Civics Class at Hoover Elementary.

So I asked our friend, "Clarify and Expand."

The response was let's say, more than a little chilly and totally unsatisfactory to the question at hand. It was in fact eerily reminiscent to the response given by the above-mentioned Mrs. Ryan when I told her that I forgot my homework, frequently, six decades ago.

The reality has always been that solving problems through civil discourse has forever been in our hands as Americans. And we have always been really bad at it.

Some long dead ancient philosopher once observed, "Hell is Truth Seen Too Late." Let's fix this before it is too late.
gccfsu wrote:

Im currently a junior in college and am looking to apply to deferred MBA programs in January 2024. My profile will be given in future tense as I am currently on track to achieve all these goals. I am trying to gain an understanding of how strong my application will be for the main deferred MBA programs I am interested in. I have strong leadership positions on campus and lots of volunteering. I have a target GMAT score. I have a lower GPA, but the number doesnt do the justice as my low GPA isnt a B+ average but rather two bad years mixed with 3 years of perfection. My current summer internship is at a smaller consulting firm, but I have a consulting internship at a larger company upon graduation next summer. One of my recommendations will come from my economic professor who is a faculty advisor for one of the clubs Im president for. My other recommendation will come from the VP (who recommended me for the job) of the small/midsize consulting internship I have this 2023 summer. I have not written any essays yet but am currently thinking about how to craft my profile into a compelling story. From college failure, to exceeding grades, extracurriculars, etc.



My target programs include: Booth Scholars, Kellogg Future leaders, Yale Silver Scholars, Columbia, MIT, Wharton Moelis, HBS 2+2, Stanford GSB, Berkely HAAS, UVA Darden.

My target career is in consulting



Profile:

White Male, 22 years old, Florida

Double Major in Economics and Sociology at a top 50 university, Cum Laude

GMAT: 740+ *Side Note* I am currently looking to boost this score a little more to make up for my lower GPA.

Cumulative GPA: 3.23 *Side Note* I did very bad my first two years in college during 2019-2020 and failed out from a rank 250 university with a 1.5 GPA in Spring 2021. I wasnt passionate about my major, Covid happened, was working, and just generally didnt have any long-term plans so I didnt care about school. However, Fall 2021, I started back at community college, took 12 classes, made straight As in all of them, and graduated with my associates degree with honors. Once I got my Associates degree I got admitted into a Rank 50 university. Starting in Fall 2022, I took another 17 classes and made straight As in all of them. So upon my application, I am currently on a 29-class streak (85 credits) of 4.00 GPA straight As. So, my GPA has gone from a 1.5 to a 3.23.

My transcripts look like this: (Rank 250 University) ACDCDCUUUUFFWFFWC ------> (Community College) AAAAAAAAAAAA ------> (Rank 50 University) AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA



Extracurriculars:

Entrepreneurship Club  Founder/President

National Business Economics Association  President

Student Government  Executive Branch Financial Assistant

Financial Management Association - Member

Foster Care Mentoring  200+ Volunteer Hours

Special Olympic Volunteering  100+ Volunteer Hours

Universitys Scholar Society, Universitys Leadership Honors Society, Economics Honors Society, Sociology Honors Society

Quiz Bowl Academic Team  Top 5 Scholar



Work Experience:

Summer 2023 consulting Internship at a small-mid size consulting firm (publicly traded, 150m Revenue, 1b market cap)

Summer 2024 consulting Internship at a Fortune 500 company (Not MBB but slightly lower tier)



Entrepreneurial Projects:

Created my own private software utilizing multiple programming languages that connected to the OpenSea API and automatically traded NFTs on the OpenSea market, generated $135,000 in purchases and sales while maintain steady profit margins.

Founded an Instagram Media Page that organically grew 40,000 followers, generated 50 million impressions and 35 million views on content, Collaborated with companies to generate revenue with sponsored posts/advertisements



Deferred MBA's have been a driving factor in my motivation for my grades, and extracurriculars. I passionately believe an MBA will accelerate me in the workforce and I want the security of having a degree from a top institution. I want to apply deferred so that I can have peace of mind going into the workforce after college knowing that I have grad school lined up. I also like the aspect that If I get denied from deferred MBA's I can apply again 2-5 years down the line for regular admissions with higher acceptance odds and more schools available. I'm all in on the idea of Business School and getting into a top institution has been a dream of mine ever since I started taking college and my long term goals seriously. I look forward to advice of how strong/weak my application stands for deferred MBA programs. Thank you so much!!!!



mbaMission Senior Admissions Consultant

Chicago Booth Alum, over 70 5-star reviews on GMAT Club

Sign up for a free 30-minute consultation at https://www.mbamission.com/consult/mba-admissions/

Read our Insider's Guides to the top b-schools: https://www.mbamission.com/guides.php?category=insiders



Kate RichardsonmbaMission Senior Admissions ConsultantChicago Booth Alum, over 70 5-star reviews on GMAT ClubSign up for a free 30-minute consultation at https://www.mbamission.com/consult/mba-admissions/Read our Insider's Guides to the top b-schools: https://www.mbamission.com/guides.php?category=insiders Signature Read More
Re: Inuits of the Bering Sea were in isolation from contact with Europeans [ #permalink

vshaunak@gmail.com wrote:

Inuits of the Bering Sea were in isolation from contact with Europeans longer than Aleuts or Inuits of the North Pacific and northern Alaska.



(A) in isolation from contact with Europeans longer than



(B) isolated from contact with Europeans longer than



(C) in isolation from contact with Europeans longer than were



(D) isolated from contact with Europeans longer than were



(E) in isolation and without contacts with Europeans longer than





Meaning is crucial to solving this problem:

Concepts tested here: Meaning + Comparisons + Awkwardness/Redundancy

A:

B:

C:

D:

Correct.

specifically

E:

in general

specifically

Hence, B is the best answer choice.

Dear Friends,Here is a detailed explanation to this question-Understanding the intended meaning is key to solving this question; the intended meaning is that the Inuits of the Bering Sea were isolated from contact with Europeans longer than the Aleuts or Inuits of the North Pacific and northern Alaska were. A comparison can only be made between similar things.This answer choice incorrectly compares the verb phrase "were in isolation from contact with Europeans" to the noun phrase "Aleuts or Inuits of the North Pacific and northern Alaska"; remember, a comparison can only be made between similar things. Further, Option A uses the needlessly wordy phrase "in isolation from contact", rendering it awkward and redundant.This answer choice incorrectly compares the verb phrase "were isolated from contact with Europeans" to the noun phrase "Aleuts or Inuits of the North Pacific and northern Alaska"; remember, a comparison can only be made between similar things.This answer choice uses the needlessly wordy phrase "in isolation from contact", rendering it awkward and redundant.This answer choice uses the phrase "isolated from contact with Europeans", conveying the intended meaning - that the Inuits of the Bering Sea were isolatedfrom Europeans. Further, Option D correctly compares the verb phrase "were isolated from contact with Europeans" and "were Aleuts or Inuits of the North Pacific and northern Alaska". Additionally, Option D is free of any awkwardness or redundancy.This answer choice alters the meaning of the sentence through the phrase "in isolation and without contacts with Europeans"; the construction of this phrase incorrectly implies that the Inuits of the Bering Sea were isolatedand had no contact with Europeans; the intended meaning is that the Inuits of the Bering Sea were isolatedfrom Europeans. Further, Option E incorrectly compares the verb phrase "in isolation and without contacts with Europeans" to the noun phrase "Aleuts or Inuits of the North Pacific and northern Alaska"; remember, a comparison can only be made between similar things. Additionally, Option E uses the needlessly wordy phrase "in isolation and without contacts", rendering it awkward and redundant.All the best!Team_________________
Poe on NAIA extortion of Thai national: Nakakagalit, nakakahiya

Sen. Grace Poe called the extortion incident involving a Thai national at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) infuriating and embarrassing, as she urged other victims to come out and file complaints.

"Nung nakita ko iyong video na 'yun, talagang nakakagalit at nakakahiya," Poe said in an interview Monday.

"Isa na namang problema ito sa reputasyon ng NAIA at ng ating airports," she added.

Poe called on other victims of extortion or attempts by airport personnel to ask money, and those who have lost valuables in the process of baggage inspection and check-in to lodge formal complaints to determine the accountability of airport personnel.

Poe said the latest incident tarnished anew the already notorious reputation of NAIA and could discourage tourists from visiting the country.

"Iyong turista na nga ang pumunta rito, iyong Thai national, ganito pa ang karanasan. Kung sino ang security na dapat poprotekta sa atin, sila pa ang gumagawa ng kalokohan," she said.

Two months ago, she said one of her office staff lost a watch during baggage inspection.

"Ang ibang reklamo, pagdaan sa xray ng bagahe, paglabas, may nawawala na, parang may magician na now you see it, now you don't," she said.

The senator said aggrieved passengers should come forward and have their complaints documented. NAIA should also make available relevant CCTV footages to aid in the investigation of complaints, including the case of the Thai national.

"We need high-resolution CCTV footages, so we can see who are involved. We know that not every airport personnel is a scalawag, we need to distinguish the bad eggs from the good ones and exact accountability," Poe said.
Danville police have arrested a 49-year-old Danville man in a Sunday afternoon homicide.

Members of the Danville Police Department responded to the Astoria Hotel in the 3000 block of Riverside Drive at about 2:15 p.m. Sunday, according to a news release.

Officers found a woman  identified as Danville resident Dale M. Jones  with blunt force trauma to her upper body, the release stated.

Officials provided no further details in the news release, other than calling the death a homicide.

Police did not provide an age of the victim.

Shortly after 9 p.m. Sunday, authorities announced the arrest of Avery Demetrie Kirby, who is charged with second-degree murder in the death of Jones.

Kirby is being held in the Danville City Jail under no bond, police report.

It marks the first homicide this year in Danville.

The city recorded seven in 2022, the same as a year before. The number of homicides plummeted to five in 2020.

We reached a 35-year low in 2020, Danville Police Department Chief Scott Booth said in an address to City Council earlier this year, referring to a huge drop in violent crime that year.

There were a record 17 in 2016. The city averaged 13.7 homicides per year from 2016 to 2018 and 6.67 annually from 2019 to 2022, Booth reported to council.

Anyone who has information on Sundays death is asked to contact the Danville Police Department. Residents may call patrol at 434-799-6510, investigations at 434-799-6508, 911 or Crime Stoppers at 434-793-0000. In addition, people may approach any officer to provide information or reach out via social media or email at crimetips@danvilleva.gov. Police also encourage the use of the crime tips app CARE.
A lot has happened since the last time the city revised its comprehensive land-use plan in 2012.

There was Tropical Storm Michael in October 2018, thousands of jobs and billions of dollars in investment have been announced, the city and nation endured a COVID-19 pandemic and a Caesars Virginia casino resort is being built.

All of that is why city officials and consultants are not only reviewing Danvilles comprehensive plan as required by state law every five years, but are working to update it to reflect the changes the city has undergone.

Many things have happened since 2012, said city planner Renee Burton. Were going to address those and put that into the plan. We need to adjust.

The comprehensive plan serves as a guide for city officials on how to implement policy in a number of areas, including economic development, housing, parks and recreation, transportation and resiliency following natural and other types of disasters.

Danvilles current planning document, which is supposed to cover 2012 to 2032, is about 100 pages long. But the next comprehensive plan will be much longer, Burton said.

Its probably going to be a lot more this time, she said.

The document will be complete next year and will likely cover 2024 to 2044, Burton said.

Pre-planning for the new comprehensive plan began in January, and Burton, the citys consultants and several assigned ambassadors who live in the city will be seeking input from residents for the plan for the next 12-14 months, she said.

The updated document will address economic growth, sustainability and resiliency, cultural storytelling, community health, connectivity and mobility and complete neighborhoods.

However, these will change and fluctuate as we do community engagement, Kendra Hyson, consultant, planner and landscape architect with SmithGroup in Washington, D.C., told Danville City Council during a presentation at its regular meeting Feb. 21.

An office will be opened up next week on North Union Street for residents to drop by and give suggestions and ask questions. An event is planned for March 7 at the location.

Danville has a lot of activity going on in the city, a lot of new investment, Hyson pointed out to council members during the presentation.

This is the perfect time to be embarking on a plan like this, Hyson said.

The city is already working on other plans, including those for historic preservation, Schoolfield and community parks, she pointed out. There is also the Southern Virginia Megasite at Berry Hill (a joint project with Pittsylvania County) and the casino, she added.

With all of that happening, you want to make sure you have a plan thats anchored in a collective vision, Hyson told City Council.

Burton, Hyson and Suzanne Schulz, an urban planning practice leader with Progressive AE, Inc. in Grand Rapids, Michigan, conducted research and spoke with community leaders in Danville as part of the pre-planning process.

From that process, they said they uncovered plan drivers and aspirations for the plan, including equity, health and resiliency, Hyson said.

We want to make sure that all of our recommendations, all of our strategies and actions are working towards equity, health and resiliency for Danville, Hyson said.

Hyson said its important to make sure that input for the comprehensive plan will be an equitable process in which all voices are heard so the plan is representative of everyone.

We want everyone to know in Danville that they can engage in this process and we want them all to feel like they have a seat at the table, Schulz told City Council.

The plans aspirations include four components, Hyson said:

Prosperity for the people;

Lifelong learning;

Advocacy and access;

Neighborhoods and networks.

As for the plans ambassadors, they will include residents assigned to specific areas of the city to engage citizens, Schulz said. They will hold small conversations in neighborhoods, business districts, and other places to increase awareness of the planning and to collect information.
GREENSBORO  A former Page High School teacher appeared in court Monday on charges of first-degree statutory rape and indecent liberties with children.

Mark Johnson Jr., 34, was arrested Friday and charged with two counts of each offense when he was booked into the Greensboro Central Jail, according to online arrest records. He is being held without bond.

Johnson began working at the school on Aug. 16, 2022, and resigned effective Wednesday, according to information provided by Guilford County Schools. District spokeswoman Gabrielle Brown said she could not provide any other details, such as what Johnsons roles were at the school or whether he has worked at other GCS schools.

The Greensboro Police Departments Family Victims Unit detectives are actively working this to determine if there are additional victims, department spokeswoman Josie Cambareri said in an email Monday.

Court records say that Johnson was employed as a teacher and assistant womens basketball coach and the involved parties are student-athletes, WGHP/FOX8 reported.

According to the FOX8 report, police began an investigation after the parents of a girl realized Johnson had sent a text to their daughter asking for her to meet him outside of their home late at night. The girl had saved the texts he had sent her. Johnson was then put on leave from Page High School.

A second student also reportedly engaged in sexual activity with Johnson, FOX8 reported. The student could describe the location and inside of his vehicle. Johnson sent text messages to students telling them to delete everything, a judge said.

Johnsons next court appearance is scheduled for May 3, according to online court records.

Guilford County Schools provided the following statement after Johnsons arrest: Student safety is very important to us, and this kind of behavior will simply not be tolerated at Page High School or in Guilford County Schools. GCS and Page High School have cooperated fully with law enforcement on the investigation throughout this process. We will continue to provide support to the Page campus.
GREENSBORO  Send us a different Republican. Not Michael Logan.

Thats the message from all six Democrats on the Guilford County Board of Education.

The call for a different school board nominee comes as the stalemate over the District 3 seat drags on, and a bill aimed at clarifying how the board must handle a political partys nominee awaits action in the N.C. Senate after passing the House earlier this month.

In a News & Record opinion column that was signed by the other five Democrats on the board, Chairwoman Deena Hayes-Greene condemned nominee Logan for social media posts that she said showed bigotry and racial prejudice.

Hayes-Greene wrote: It is hard to believe the local Executive Committee of the Guilford County Republican Party has put forth a man who shared and liked the following: Derek Chauvin immediately stood and calmly placed his hands behind his back yesterday. Imagine where wed be had George Floyd done the same.

Logan, a Southern Guilford High School teacher, stood by that post and others highlighted in the opinion piece during an interview on Friday.

He first shared the post by conservative activist Ryan Fournier in April 2021, and again as a Facebook memory in 2022, and said he will probably share it again this year if it pops up in his feed.

Logan said his point in re-circulating the post was that how people handle themselves in bad situations has a huge impact on the outcome.

Thats not giving any consideration of saying what was done to him was correct; it was not correct, he said. What (Chauvin) did was horribly wrong.

The opinion piece also referenced a few other posts by Logan.

In 2011, Logan wrote: Gotta love pepper spray and Spray em all and let the parents sort em out, following a protest by students at a California college. He made a similar post on the same topic in 2016.

In 2013, he also wrote: An assault shotgun at work, gotta love it, in reference to a CNN story about a homeowner confronting a thief.

In the opinion piece that was published on Sunday, Hayes-Greene pointed to Logans Facebook posts as a reason why she and fellow members feel hes not qualified to serve on the board.

For three months, we have voted not to seat Mr. Logan on the school board, she wrote. We want to convey our rationale, and the stand we are taking, for it is not against a man or political party but against bigotry and racial prejudice and their attendant violence that we believe are represented in Mr. Logans candidacy.

She also added: There are many other Republicans who have not engaged in racially prejudiced writing, who seek to embody the values a Board of Education member should hold, and who have expressed an interest in representing District 3. It seems to us that the perfect solution is for the Republican Party to put forward one of them. And we would welcome them.

The District 3 seat has been vacant since December when Pat Tillman resigned to join the Guilford County Board of Commissioners. As prescribed by state law, the Guilford County GOP executive committee members who live in the affected district, in this case District 3, are charged with choosing a successor.

State law also says the school board must appoint that nominee to the vacancy.

But school board members in Guilford County havent always been willing to vote to do that.

In 2018, the board originally voted down Democratic Party nominee Winston McGregor before some members changed their minds, allowing her to join. That situation took less an hour to resolve versus the current situation which has lasted for months.

The bill currently before the state Senate is sponsored by Rep. Jon Hardister, a Republican from Whitsett. He is attempting to clarify that school board members cannot take their own opinions into account when approving a political partys nominee to fill a seat previously held by a member of that party.

Logan expressed pleasure with the bill, which he said seemed to be moving faster than he expected.

Im really kind of sorry and perplexed that our school board has such as issue with me, he said.
Work has begun on a joint project between the town of Kernersville and Korners Folly to build a visitors center on the grounds of the historic house.

The new facility, which will be near the home built in 1880 by artist and designer Jule Gilmer Korner at 411 S. Main St., will function as a community gathering space, providing improved amenities and increased accessibility for visitors to historic Korners Folly while also serving as a beautiful introduction to historic downtown Kernersville, the Korners Folly Foundation said.

The town committed $750,000 to the project in 2019, with the foundation raising the balance of funding for the multi-million-dollar project. The state of North Carolina and Forsyth County also provided financial support.

The vision of the Korners Folly Foundation is to be a place of connection between the past and the future, and to help people connect with one another, said foundation Executive Director Suzanna Ritz Malliett. We are thrilled to begin construction on this long-awaited project that will help the organization further our strategic goals of widening access and deepening connection to this valuable historical and cultural resource, while also contributing significantly to local economic development.

The foundation also announced that the visitors center would be named for longtime Korners Folly Foundation supporters John and Bobbie Wolfe, who were among those who stepped in to save the historic building in the 1970s.

Project funding through the foundations capital campaign came through grants from organizations including the BB&T/Truist Foundation, Marion Stedman Covington Foundation, the Kernersville Foundation, the Lawrence E. & Etta Lea Pope Foundation, the Lib Burns Trust, the Richard & Marie Reynolds Foundation, the Wells Fargo Foundation, the Winston-Salem Foundation, the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office and the Kernersville Historic Preservation Society.

Private donors and local businesses also contributed.

The new center will provide a central point for tourism information and include rotating exhibition space for historical artifacts, meeting and program areas, public restrooms, a media room, increased office space, storage for artifact collections, a gift shop and paved parking for tour buses and cars.

Construction is expected to take about 10 months.

Winston-Salem-based West and Stem Architects PLLC designed the new center. Wilson-Covington Construction Company will carry out the project.
West Valley Fire Rescue officials said 2022 was an incredible year.

After the recent consolidation between Lewis and Clark County Fire and West Valley, emergency calls increased by 15% in 2022, almost breaking 1,000 calls.

West Valley Fire Rescue broke another record in January for the most calls in a month at 93.

Covering areas south, west and north of Helena, West Valley Fire Recue members cover a lot of area and have a great time banding together to tackle whatever the emergency is, Chief Frank Dahlquist said.

Our volunteer firefighters commit thousands of hours of training every year to be ready to help members of our community, he said in a news release. When a person has an emergency, they need highly trained experts to arrive in order to mitigate the medical issue, vehicle accident, or fire.

The department had a banquet Saturday and nearly 60 members and their families attended.

Those honored included:

Capt. Tim Dusenberry  2022 Fire Prevention Educator of the Year

Assistant Chief David Hamilton  2022 Public Relations Firefighter of the Year

Firefighter Oscar Velasquez  2022 Most Training Hours

Capt. Chase Berg  2022 Most Duty Shifts

Capt. Jessamine Plovanich  2022 Highest Call Responses

Firefighter Connor Davidson  2022 Firefighter of the Year

As this years calls have increased, recruiting new members in 2023 is a top priority, Dahlquist said. West Valleys Spring Recruiting Campaign ends Wednesday and it has four positions to fill.

For more information, to join West Valley Fire Rescue or to volunteer, call 406-417-9972 or email WestValleyFireRescue@gmail.com.
DECATUR  Police said an accused Decatur drug dealer appeared to have been using a 3-D printer to build himself a weapon.

A sworn affidavit said members of the Decatur Police Emergency Response Team paid a surprise visit to the home of Richard L. Davis III on Jan. 10 when they served a search warrant.

Police said they found a pouch inside a safe that contained a magazine loaded with 21 bullets and all the parts needed to construct a semi-automatic handgun.

This safe also contained a spool of plastic-type material made for a 3-D printer, said Officer Philip Ganley, who signed the affidavit.

It appears that the lower part of the pistol in the pouch was made by utilizing a 3-D printer.

Ganley said police seized two other loaded magazines from the Davis home in the 1300 block of North Woodford Street along with a second semi-automatic handgun loaded with an extended capacity magazine. The police also found 3.3 grams of methamphetamine and a digital scale with traces of the illegal drug.

Davis, 27, is quoted as admitting to police he is a drug dealer but is not quoted as saying anything about the weapons and why he had them.

He is pleading not guilty to charges of dealing in meth and meth possession and being a felon in possession of firearms.

Davis had appeared in Macon County Circuit Court on Feb. 1 where he waived a preliminary hearing and is due back in court Wednesday when his defense attorney will argue a motion to reduce his bail. Macon County Jail records showed he remained incarcerated with bail set at $100,000, requiring him to post a bond of $10,000 to be released.

A check of Daviss criminal record shows he was sentenced to eight years in prison in 2015 after pleading guilty to a charge of armed robbery.

Updated mugshots from the Herald & Review Joseph A. Williams William A. Hosea Randolph Hayes Byron D. Theus Jetrevius O. Jarrett Phillip Gehrken Emmanuel White Aaron L. Hand
Black Vietnam veterans were held up and celebrated on Saturday during an event at Morning Star First Baptist Church in Hickory.

It was the second time the Black Veterans Committee of the Foothills Veterans Helping Veterans group hosted the event. The committee celebrated its one-year anniversary in January, Lorrie Lawrence, a committee member and Navy veteran, said.

The event focused on Vietnam veterans, but all veterans were welcome.

Lawrence said the committee was started because the Foothills Veterans Helping Veterans organization realized there was a lack of participation from veterans of color. The annual event helps put Black veterans in touch with local resources, Lawrence said.

Last years event honored all Black veterans. Next year, the plan is to focus on female Black veterans, Rev. David E. Roberts II said. Roberts is a veteran and the pastor of Morning Star First Baptist church.

This year, two members of the Foothills Veterans Helping Veterans were remembered. The first was Joe Dillard, who died April 17, 2022. The second was Jerry Powell, who died on Nov. 10, 2022. The audience was asked to raise an imaginary glass for a toast and say, To our absent friend, welcome home.

The president of the Black Veterans Committee, John Robinson, was given an award for his dedication to helping other veterans.

Ronald Howard, 68, was one of the Black Vietnam veterans in attendance. Howard said he served in the Navy from 1973 to 1976. He served aboard the USS Hancock, and said the scariest memory he had during battle was being out on the water and seeing artillery light up the sky.

It looked like the Fourth of July fireworks, Howard said.

Howard is disabled, he said. During his service he was injured while working on the flight deck of the ship one night. Howard is originally from Trenton, New Jersey. He said he heard and saw racism toward his comrades, but he did not experience as much of the hate living in the northern United States. He said people from the South did experience racism when they came home from the war.

The Navy paid for Howard to go to college, he said. He studied structural engineering and went on to spend his life working for Amtrak. He said his favorite part about both the Navy and working for Amtrak was getting to travel. Howards favorite place he traveled to was Singapore, he said.

Because it was like New York at the time, Howard said. And the streets were so clean.

Louis White, 71, a member of Morning Star First Baptist Church, served in the Army from 1981 to 1992. White is originally from South Carolina and moved to Hickory in 1994 to teach at Hickory High School. He retired in 2017, he said.

White said the best experiences he had during his service was the travel. He recalled one flight from the U.S. over Europe. He said as the plane flew over the Swiss Alps, it looked like he could reach out and touch the tops of the mountains because they are so tall. Another memorable place for White was Istanbul, Turkey. He said Istanbul was busier than New York, which is why it was so memorable.

The experience gave me more education than I got in school, White said.

Army veteran Rashina Carter, 43, was in attendance as a member of the Foothills Veterans Helping Veterans Black Veterans Committee. Carter shared her experiences as a Black woman in the military.

I tell people that I have to work four times as hard as everyone else, Carter said. Ive got to work twice as hard because Im female. Ive got to work three times harder because Im Black. And then, I have to work four times harder because Im a Black female.

Carter is also from New Jersey. She said she went into the Army to help pay for higher education. She said she was 17 years old and had to have her mother sign paperwork to join. She served from 1997 to 2008. Carter said she originally wanted to go into mental health but was assigned to work as a medic.

Carter was deployed in Afghanistan and said she was the only female medic where she was stationed. Carter said she wants people to have patience with veterans, especially when veterans get upset or moody. She said veterans have had experiences and obstacles that civilians do not understand. Carter said she suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder after her service.

Im actually still seeing my therapist today, Carter said. And Ive been out for about eight years. There are things that you just cant get rid of or things that will always be there. But you learn how to work through them and how to incorporate that into your life, because theyre not going away.
South Africa: GCIS pays tribute to veteran editor Rafiq Rohan

This story has been published on: 2023-02-27. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.

National Hawks Head, Lieutenant General Godfrey Lebeya, has commended the Directorates Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team for seizing R30 million worth of suspected illicit cigarettes in Limpopo. In a multi-disciplinary sting operation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, the Hawks, the South African Nation... See more
This paper is from SOSP'13. The Polyjuice paper, which we studied last week, built on the Silo codebase and commit protocol, which led me to read the Silo paper.



Silo is a single-node multi-core in-memory database. It avoids all centralized contention points, including centralized transaction ID (TID) assignment. Silo's key contribution is a commit protocol based on optimistic concurrency control (OCC) that provides serializability while avoiding all shared-memory writes for records that were only read. Logging and recovery is provided by linking periodically-updated epochs with the commit protocol. Silo achieves almost 700,000 transactions per second on a standard TPC-C workload mix on a 32-core machine, as well as near-linear scalability. That is pretty impressive over 2013 hardware. The Silo paper got 445 citations in 10 years. That is also impressive.



So let's dive in.





Architecture

Silo's organization is typical of databases. Tables are implemented as collections of index trees, including one primary tree and zero or more secondary trees per table. Each record in a table is stored in a separately-allocated chunk of memory pointed to by the table's primary tree. In secondary indexes, the index key maps to a secondary record that contains the relevant record's primary key(s). Thus, looking up a record by a secondary index requires two tree accesses.Each index tree is stored in an ordered key-value structure based on Masstree (a fast concurrent B-tree-like structure optimized for multicore performance). Masstree read operations never write to shared memory; instead, readers coordinate with writers using version numbers and fence-based synchronization (as we will discuss below).Silo pins one worker thread per physical core of the server machine. Trees are stored in (shared) main memory, in Silo any worker can access the entire database. Silo clients issue one-shot requests. In other words, requests are stored procedures written in C++. All parameters are available when a request begins, and the request does not interact with its caller until it completes. The paper mentions that these requests could've also been written in SQL.

Design

Silo uses a variant of OCC. OCC writes to shared memory only at commit time, after the transaction's compute phase has completed; this short write period reduces contention. And thanks to the validation step, read-set records need not be locked.



Silo's OCC avoids most points of global synchronization, including that of centralized transaction ID (TID) assignment. Silo's OCC avoids any shared-memory writes for records that were only read, yet it achieves serializability, even supporting serializability with recovery. This is achieved by using periodically-updated epochs; epoch boundaries form natural serialization points. Epochs also help make garbage collection efficient and enable snapshot transactions.





Epochs



Silo is based on physical time periods called epochs. A global epoch number E is visible to all threads. A designated thread periodically advances E; other threads access E while committing transactions. E should advance frequently, but epoch change should be rare compared to transaction duration so that the value of E is generally cached. Silo updates E once every 40 ms. No locking is required to handle E.



Each worker w also maintains a local epoch number e_w. This can lag behind E while the worker computes, and is used to determine when it is safe to collect garbage. Silo requires that E and e_w never diverge too far: E e_w  1 for all w.





TIDs

TIDs identify transactions and record versions, serve as locks, and detect conflicts. Each record contains the TID of the transaction that most recently modified it. TIDs are 64-bit integers. The high bits of each TID contain an epoch number, which equals the global epoch at the corresponding transactions commit time. The middle bits distinguish transactions within the same epoch. The lower three bits are status bits indicating a lock bit, latest-version bit, and absent bit.



Silo assigns TIDs in a decentralized fashion. A worker chooses a transactions TID only after verifying that the transaction can commit. At that point, it calculates the smallest number that is (a) larger than the TID of any record read or written by the transaction, (b) larger than the workers most recently chosen TID, and (c) in the current global epoch.



The TID order often reflects the serial order, but not always. Consider transactions t1 and t2 where t1 happened first in the serial order. If t1 wrote a tuple that t2 observed (by reading it or overwriting it), then t2s TID must be greater than t1s, thanks to (a) above.



But reads don't write TID to the record, so a t1 that reads a record would go undetected for t2 overwrites the value t1 saw. (This is called anti-dependency a write-after-read conflict.) A serializable system must order t1 before t2 even after a potential crash and recovery from persistent logs. To achieve this ordering, most systems require that t1 communicate with t2, such as by posting its read sets to shared memory or via a centrally-assigned, monotonically-increasing transaction ID, and incur a scalability bottleneck.



In Silo, TIDs do not reflect anti-dependencies (write-after-read conflicts) as well. If t1 merely observed a tuple that t2 later overwrote, t1s TID might be either less than or greater than t2s! Silo still achieves serializability to the face of recovery thanks to logging transactions in units of epochs, and releasing transaction acks/results to the clients at epoch boundaries. Even though transaction results always agree with a serial order, the system does not explicitly know the serial order except across epoch boundaries: if t1s epoch is before t2s, then t1 precedes t2 in the serial order. We will talk about epoch-based commit protocol below.





Commit protocol

The worker maintains a read-set that identifies all records that were read, along with the TID of each record at the time it was accessed. For modified records, it maintains a write-set that stores the new state of the record. Records that were both read and modified occur in both the read-set and the write-set. In normal operation, readset subsumes the writeset.The commit protocol is OCC based.In Phase 1, the worker examines all records in the transactions write-set and locks each record by acquiring the records lock bit. To avoid deadlocks, workers lock records in a deterministic global order.After all write locks are acquired, the worker takes a snapshot of the global epoch number E using a single memory access. Fences are required to ensure that this read goes to main memory (rather than an out-of-date cache), happens logically after all previous memory accesses, and happens logically before all following memory accesses. (On x86 and other total store order machines, however, these fences are compiler fences that do not affect compiled instructions; they just prevent the compiler from moving code aggressively.) The snapshot of the global epoch number is the serialization point for transactions that commit.In Phase 2, the worker examines all the records in the transactions read-set (which may contain some records that were both read and written). If some record either has a different TID than that observed during execution, is no longer the latest version for its key, or is locked by a different transaction, the transaction releases its locks and aborts.If the TIDs of all read records are unchanged, the transaction is allowed to commit, because we know that all its reads are consistent. The worker uses the snapshot of the global epoch number taken in Phase 1 to assign the transaction a TID as described earlier.Finally, in Phase 3, the worker writes its modified records to the tree and updates their TIDs to the transaction ID computed in the previous phase. Each lock can be released immediately after its record is written. Silo must ensure that the new TID is visible as soon as the lock is released; this is simple since the TID and lock share a word and can be written atomically.The paper argues Silo's OCC commit protocol's serializability by reducing to strict two-phase locking (S2PL). The main arguments for Silo's correctness are:

it locks all written records before validating the TIDs of read records,

it treats locked records as dirty and aborts on encountering them, and

the fences that close Phase 1 ensure that TID validation sees all concurrent updates.



Silo also ensures that epoch boundaries agree with the serial order. That is, committed transactions in earlier epochs never transitively depend on transactions in later epochs. This holds because the memory fences ensure that all workers load the latest version of E before read validation and after write locking. Placing the load before read validation ensures that committed transactions read- and node-sets never contain data from later epochs; placing it after write locking ensures that all transactions in later epochs would observe at least the lock bits acquired in Phase 1. Thus, epochs obey both dependencies and anti-dependencies.





Other database operations

Implementing an entire database is hard. There are many other details the paper discusses, including how to correctly modify record data, how to correctly access record data, how to deal with deleted records, how to deal with insert operations, how to implement secondary index update operations, how to ensure durability to disks, how to perform recovery, how to do garbage collections (thanks epochs!) etc. I skip these and refer to you to the paper. I will just cover range queries support and snapshot queries as they are most interesting.



Range queries are complicated by the phantom problem: if we scanned a particular range but only kept track of the records that were present during the scan, membership in the range could change without being detected by the protocol, violating serializability. The typical solution to this problem in database systems is next-key locking, which requires locking for reads, and conflicts with Silos goals. Silo deals with this issue by taking advantage of the underlying B+-trees version number on each leaf node. A scan on the interval [a,b), in addition to registering all records in the interval in the read-set, also creates a node-set. It adds the leaf nodes that overlap with the key space [a, b) to the node-set along with the version numbers examined during the scan. Phase 2 checks that the version numbers of all tree nodes in the node-set have not changed, which ensures that no new keys have been added or removed within the ranges examined.



Snapshot transactions. Silo supports running read-only transactions on recent-past snapshots by retaining additional versions for records. These versions form a consistent snapshot that contains all modifications of transactions up to some point in the serial order, and none from transactions after that point. Snapshots are used for running snapshot transactions (and could also be helpful for checkpointing). Silo provides consistent snapshots using snapshot epochs. Snapshot epoch boundaries align with epoch boundaries, and thus are consistent points in the serial order. Snapshot epochs advance more slowly than epochs. Since snapshots are not free, a new snapshot is taken about once a second, i.e, after every 25 epochs.





Evaluation



The experiments were run on a single machine with four 8-core Intel Xeon E7-4830 processors clocked at 2.1GHz, yielding a total of 32 physical cores. Each core has a private 32KB L1 cache and a private 256KB L2 cache. The eight cores on a single processor share a 24MB L3 cache. The machine has 256GB of DRAM with 64GB of DRAM attached to each socket, and runs 64-bit Linux 3.2.0.



Figure 4 shows the results of running the YCSB benchmark on KeyValue (which is simply the concurrent B+-tree underneath Silo) and MemSilo. The overhead of MemSilo compared to Key-Value is negligible, which shows that the cost of Silos read/write set tracking for a simple key-value workload is low.

Figure 4 also shows the benefits of designing Silo to avoid a single globally unique TID assigned at commit time. MemSilo+GlobalTID generates TIDs from a single shared counter and suffers as the number of worker threads increase. This shows the importance of avoiding even a single global atomic instruction during the commit phase.These experiments run TPC-C on Silo, assigning all clients with the same local warehouse to the same thread. They size the database such that the number of warehouses equals the number of workers, so the database grows as more workers are introduced. The results show that Silo scales as more cores become available, even when transactions are made persistent.Several main-memory database designs instead use data partitioning, in which database workers effectively own subsets of the data. Partitioning performs better for some workloads, but Silo's shared-memory design wins when cross-partition transactions are frequent or partitions are overloaded, as Figure 8 shows.

Conclusions

Silo's OCC is optimized for multicore performance, avoiding global critical sections and non-local memory writes for read operations. Its use of epochs facilitates serializable recovery, garbage collection, and efficient read-only snapshot transactions.



The important contribution of Silo's was to avoid any global critical section and to show an efficient way to deal with antidependencies (r-w conflicts) in a recovery-safe serializable manner. This was most explicitly explained at the end of the TID section above, go revisit it to make sure you understand these points.



The paper lists the following as future work:



soft partitioning to improve performance on highly partitionable workloads

fully implementing checkpointing, recovery, and replication

investigating how to balance load across workers most effectively, perhaps in a way that exploits core-to-data affinity

integrating into a full-featured SQL engine.



Silo is available as opensource if you like to play or you know rewrite it in Rust.



There is also a nice conference presentation for the paper, which would complement your understanding.





Discussion

Reading the paper

I enjoyed reading this paper, and learned a lot from it. But this is an overwhelming read with so many things to learn and dive deep. This felt like reading a PhD thesis because the paper takes a tour-de-force approach. Explaining the design and implementation of an entire database does not afford the best ergonomics for the reader. This paper is to be enjoyed in smaller portions over a span of several days.



I think it would be better to relegate a full coverage to a journal paper or a PhD thesis. If this paper focused on the commit protocol more, explained it better, talked about the tradeoffs more, anticipated and answered more questions about it, I would have loved it more.





Snapshot Isolation (SI) vs Serializability (SER)

If Silo used SI (a weaker isolation level) instead of SER, would it have to fudge with the commit-protocol to prevent the global synchronization (atomic_fetch_and_add instruction) related to TIDs?



SI only deals with w-w conflicts, so antidependencies would not be a problem an SI implementation would be concerned with. The phantom problem with range scans would also be avoided. What else would be different in a SI implementation? The epochs approach would still work well for durability and recovery, I think.





Related work



We had previously discussed Hekaton. The Silo paper has this to say for comparing to Hekaton.



Larson et al. recently revisited the performance of locking and OCC-based multi-version concurrency control (MVCC) systems versus that of traditional single-copy locking systems in the context of multicore main-memory databases. Their OCC implementation exploits MVCC to avoid installing writes until commit time, and avoids many of the centralized critical sections present in classic OCC. These techniques form the basis for concurrency control in Hekaton, the main- memory component of SQL Server. However, their design lacks many of the multicore-specific optimizations of Silo. For example, it has a global critical section when assigning timestamps, and reads must perform non-local memory writes to update other transactions dependency sets. It performs about 50% worse on simple key-value workloads than a single-copy locking system even under low levels of contention, whereas Silos OCC-based implementation is within a few percent of a key-value system for small key-value workloads.


After solidifying his grasp on power, and winning over the people by taking land from the wealthy and giving it to workers, Mao aimed to pull China forward into the 20th century with two notable plans. Both were disasters.

The Great Leap Forward aimed to use peasants in rural areas to jump-start an economic revolution through increased grain production. At the same time, the CPC urged peasants in newly formed communes and in city neighborhoods to take the first steps toward industrialization, forging steel through the building and use of backyard blast furnaces.

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Many farmers moved into steel production, which didn't prove economically sound. And due to several other factors, grain production fell and was not nearly enough for a growing population. The result was a famine of unconscionable severity; the Great Leap Forward was responsible for tens of millions of Chinese deaths  maybe as many as 45 million  from the time it started in 1958 through the early 1960s. Several million of those numbers were executed for various crimes against the party.

"It is better to let half of the people die," Mao said during a secret meeting in Shanghai in March 1959, "so that the other half can eat their fill."

The failure of the Great Leap Forward enabled some other powerful people in the CPC to wrest control of some aspects of the government from Mao, at least for a short time. But in 1966, Mao launched another deadly program destined for failure.

The Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution, or simply the Cultural Revolution, was designed to shrug off the effects of the Great Leap Forward, rid the CPC and the country of those people who didn't agree with his vision, and move forward toward a stronger China. Mao had a simple plan: He called for rebellion against the party as a way of purging the elements that bucked his way of thinking.

Millions were driven from their homes, beaten, tortured or thrown into prison. Many millions were massacred across the country. Many thousands more committed suicide.

Armed students  the Red Guard  fought each other and killed others they deemed to be enemies of Mao and communism. They destroyed historic artifacts that symbolized the "old" China. Libraries were closed. Books were burned.

"Mao was above the law. In that sense, he was like a dictator," Lu says. "He was also seeking control of methods of controlling people's minds, brainwashing them through fear, through intimidation, through force. He [saw] himself as a savior of the nation and its people."

The Cultural Revolution threw the entire country into economic and social chaos. By its end, in 1969, at least 500,000 Chinese, maybe as many as 8 million, died in the uprising.

The Cultural Revolution and the Great Leap Forward, remain inerasable stains on Mao's rule. Tens of millions were murdered and starved to death in the name of communism.

" " Chinese paramilitary police officers salute each other as they stand guard below a massive portrait of Chairman Mao that still hangs in Tiananmen Square. Kevin Frayer/Getty Images
The De Pree Art Center and Gallery at Hope College will host the exhibition Working Title featuring work by Chicago-based artist Alberto Aguilar from Friday, March 3, through Thursday, March 30.

Aguilar will deliver an artists talk on Friday, March 3, at 4 p.m. in Cook Auditorium of the De Pree Art Center. The opening reception will immediately follow in the gallery.

The public is invited to the exhibition, artists talk and opening reception. Admission is free.

Aguilar uses whatever material is at hand in an attempt to make a meaningful connection with the viewer. He does not distinguish his art practice from his other various life roles, which allows him to make work wherever he is. Working Title has been created on-site with objects and materials from Hope College and Holland.

Aguilar, along with some of his family members, collectively organizes Mayfield, a multi-use space that operates on the grounds of his home. He has shown and presented his work at various museums, galleries, storefronts, homes and street corners around the world. Some of the venues include the Queens Museum; El Torito Supermercado; The Minneapolis Institute of Art; the corner of Cesar Chavez Avenue and North Broadway in Los Angeles, California; The Museum of Contemporary Art in Detroit; Chicago City Hall; The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago; Museo Del Jamon in Madrid, Spain; The Art Institute of Chicago; The Chicago River (Jackson Bridge); The Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art; El Cosmico Trailer Park in Marfa, Texas; El Centro de Desarrollo de las Artes Visuales in Havana, Cuba; and Iowa rest stop I-80. His work is in the collection of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, The Jorge Lucero Study Collection, Soho House, Meta - Facebook, The National Museum of Mexican Art and the office of Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot.

The De Pree Gallery is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hours will be reduced during the weekdays of the colleges March 17-26 spring break, with the gallery open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Those without a Hope College ID, which is necessary to gain access through the front door, should call the Department of Art and Art History at 616-395-7500 to gain entry.

The De Pree Art Center and Gallery is located at 275 Columbia Ave., between 10th and 13th streets
include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/$theme/includes/sidebar.php"; ?> Despite all the furor, the future of the internet does not hinge on a pair of cases argued this week at the U.S. Supreme Court. There's no risk that the statutory immunity that Congress granted long ago to internet service providers will collapse. The justices are being asked to decide a narrow and technical legal question. Should the ISPs lose, they'll make a handful of tweaks in the algorithms they employ to sort content. The experience of most users will barely budge.

The two cases that have sparked the dire predictions involve lawsuits against Google and Twitter, respectively. The suits were filed by families who have lost loved ones to vicious acts of terrorism. The central allegation is that the companies abetted those acts through the videos and other materials they made available to users. The justices aren't being asked to decide whether the allegations are true but whether the cases should go to trial, in which case the jury would determine the facts.

Google is being sued based on the recommendations that YouTube's algorithms make to users in the familiar "up next" box. Twitter is accused of making insufficient efforts to remove pro-terror postings. The immunity issue is squarely presented only in the Google case. But because a Google victory would almost certainly bar the lawsuit against Twitter, the immunity argument is worth considering in detail.

The relevant question before the court is how to interpret Section 230(c)(1) of the Communications Decency Act, adopted by Congress in 1996, after a New York court held an ISP liable for purported defamatory material posted on a message board it hosted.

The text is straightforward: "No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider." When commentators refer to the statutory immunity of ISPs, this is the main provision they have in mind.

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Here's how the statute works: If I upload a video to YouTube, I'm the content provider, but YouTube is neither the speaker nor the publisher. Therefore, should my video cause harm  defamation, say  YouTube isn't liable.

Seems simple, right? But now we come to what the justices must decide: If Google creates an algorithm that recommends my harmful video to you, is the video still provided by "another" provider, or is the provider now YouTube itself? Or, in the alternative argument, does the algorithm's recommendation transform Google into the video's publisher? Either interpretation of the statute would allow the plaintiffs to circumvent the statutory immunity.

Those aren't easy questions to answer. But they also aren't policy questions that should be tossed back to Congress. They involve nothing but the ordinary, everyday work of the courts, the determination of the meaning of a statute that's susceptible to more than one interpretation.

In fact, the courts have ruled often on the bounds of Section 230 immunity. In perhaps the best-known example, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit ruled in 2008 that the section offered no protection to a roommate-matching site that required users to answer questions that those offering housing could not legally ask. The questions, wrote the court, made the site "the developer, at least in part" of the relevant content.

In the Google case, on the other hand, the 9th Circuit held that the selection algorithm is just a tool to help users find the content they want, based on what the users themselves have viewed or searched for. Using the algorithm didn't make Google the creator or developer of the ISIS recruitment videos that are the centerpiece of the case because the company did not materially contribute to the videos' "unlawfulness." Judge Ronald Gould's dissent took the view that the plaintiffs should be allowed to go to trial on their claims that Google "knew that ISIS and its supporters were inserting propaganda videos into their platforms" and should share legal liability because YouTube, through its selection algorithms, "magnified and amplified those communications."

At oral argument in the Google case, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wondered whether the ISPs are turning Section 230 inside out. The provision was written, she said, to allow the companies to block certain offensive materials. How, she asked, was it "conceptually consistent with what Congress intended" to use the section as a shield for promoting offensive materials?

The answer depends on whether using an algorithm to decide which content to recommend is the same as saying to the user "This is great stuff that we fully endorse!" Here, my own view is that Big Tech has the better of the argument. But the case is an extremely close one. And I certainly don't think that a court ruling against the ISPs would cause the sky to fall.

Google warns in its brief that should the plaintiffs' interpretation of Section 230 prevail, the company will be left with no means to sort and categorize third-party videos, to say nothing of deciding which if any to recommend to a given user. And the company goes further: "Virtually no modern website would function if users had to sort through content themselves."

Good points! But not as good as they would be if the company's YouTube subsidiary, along with other ISPs, hadn't spent so much time in recent years tweaking algorithms to meet government objections to the content recommended to users. Which is to say, should the ISPs lose, I think they would work it out.

I suspect that what worries the ISPs is less the potential complexity of compliance with a smaller immunity and more the flood of lawsuits, many ungrounded, that would surely follow. That's a genuine worry  and unlike the proper interpretation of a statute, it's exactly the sort of problem that we might want Congress to resolve.
include_once "/home/jwreview/public_html/$theme/includes/sidebar.php"; ?> Gallup released a poll recently which said that seventy percent of Americans think the country is headed in the wrong direction. Forty years ago we had Johnny Cash, Bob Hope and Ronald Reagan while today we have no Reagan, no Cash and no Hope. I just pray nothing ever happens to Kevin Bacon.

 Cocaine Bear opened Friday in the true 1985 story of a bear that ate 70 pounds of cocaine from a bag in the woods. The bear goes wild in hilarious and dangerous situations before dying. Critics say Cocaine Bear is the Scarface of nature movies except the bear doesn't overact as much as Al Pacino.

 Barbra Streisand will be given the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Woman of Leadership Award in April at the Library of Congress in Washington. Her anti-gun views are legendary. In California, you are not allowed to own a gun if you have a criminal record, a mental health record or a Barbra Streisand record.

 Joe Biden was heckled by anti-war kids in D.C. last week as were Kamala and Hakeem Jeffries, hinting that Democrats could lose a huge anti-war vote in 2024. Biden is betting the last few years of his life he won't blow up the world by risking a war with Russia. Talk about playing with house money.

 President Biden flew home from his mission to Poland and Ukraine Thursday where he pledged undying love for Ukraine. The president did achieve one lasting major accomplishment as a result of his trip. To comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, an elevator is being built for Air Force One.

 The Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library hosted an open house on President's Day with a new exhibit showcasing the New Deal's landmark social legislation. Many Americans have begun comparing President Biden to FDR. Not for his policies but for his inability to walk up stairs.

 Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg came to East Palestine, Ohio, to take a look at the chemical spill dressed like a clean-up worker. Nothing's funnier-looking than an Episcopalian in work clothes. Last week Pete said there are too many white construction workers and Thursday he dressed up like one.

 ABC's Women of the View made news Thursday when Joy Behar stated the people of East Palestine, Ohio, got what they deserved with the train wreck chemical spill by voting for Trump. What can be done? Telling the Women of the View to calm down works about as well as somebody baptizing a cat.

 House Republicans held a committee hearing on the U.S.-Mexican border crisis on-site in Arizona Thursday but Democrats boycotted. Oddly enough, Mexico City residents are complaining about Americans moving into their city to live opulently at lower cost. Mexico just built stairs to keep Biden out.

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 Vladimir Putin pulled Russia out of its nuclear deal with the U.S. and lined up with China while Biden met with NATO leaders to brace for war. Both presidents were just following their religious traditions. On both Western and Eastern Church calendars it was Reduce the World to Ash Wednesday.

 All Saints Episcopal Church in Beverly Hills hosted its first Ash Wednesday service Wednesday since the pandemic began three years ago. It happens to be my church. Ash Wednesday in Beverly Hills is the one day per year when residents aren't sure if the gas station attendant is Mexican or Hindu.

 Fox News interviewed Palestine, Ohio, residents who expressed anger that President Biden didn't come visit the train wreck that spilled toxic chemicals into their water, ground and air. The president had an urgent matter to attend overseas. Biden went to Kiev to meet the Ukrainian woman he met online.

 President Biden met with the leaders of NATO nations in Europe Wednesday and doubled down on support for Ukraine. Unfortunately Joe fell down again while walking up the stairs to board Air Force One. It's fast approaching time for the Secret Service to place gravity on the Terrorist Watch List.

 Donald Trump traveled to East Palestine, Ohio, Wednesday where he brought supplies and bottled water to victims of the chemical spill. The residents stood alongside the main street and greeted Trump like a conquering hero. President Biden will visit the town soon to see how they're doing without federal aid.

 The Los Angeles Times reported that two Sacramento lawmakers introduced a bill to ban the use of canines for arrests and crowd control. The lawmakers claim police dogs are inherently racist tools that are used to repress black people. In fairness to the authors of the legislation the dogs ARE German.

(COMMENT, BELOW)
100 years ago,

Feb. 27, 1923

MATTOON  In order to afford more protection to shrubs, flowers, and other similar improvements, The Lions Club will offer a reward of $25 for the apprehension and conviction of any one guilty of violating the state law governing the willful destruction of shrub, vine, or tree used for ornamental purposes. This announcement is made by President Hannah, of the Lions Club. Mr. Hannah states that last year some private grounds were disturbed by marauders, who tore up flower beds, and that at some of the public schools, similar acts were committed...MARSHALL  Two members of the Gormong family of Youngstown, Ind. were seriously injured and eight others of the family, with Charles Armstrong and Della Smith, were bruised and badly shaken up with a touring car was driven into the side of an engine at the Big Four depot at 11:40 o'clock last night. Both were taken to a hospital in Terre Haute.

50 years ago, 1973

ARCOLA  Roger Hull, who was buried in a corn bin Saturday and his father Dale, who rescued him, apparently have suffered no ill effects from the long ordeal. The two were unloading a 30-foot-high, 9000-bushel corn bin on their farm near Tuscola when they found that the auger, which pulls the corn from the bottom of the bin, was running slowly. Suspecting a crust had formed over the auger, preventing the corn from being pulled into it, Roger climbed atop the grain and used a probe to break the crust. When it broke, the corn funneled downward carrying him with it. His father could not hear him yell for help, but thought something was wrong when Roger did not reappear and when the auger did not begin to run faster. He found his son buried to his waist in the corn and sinking. When Hull went to his son's aid, more corn slipped and covered Roger's head. Hull scooped the corn from his son's face and climbed to the top of the bin and shouted for help. The Arcola Fire department rescue squad arrived about five minutes later and called in Tuscola Fire to help. It took almost two hours to free Roger, during this time his father stayed beside him keeping the corn away from his face and keeping him calm.

25 years ago, 1998

ARCOLA  Alexander Bowles doesn't see anything special in what he did. On Dec. 29, Bowles was just driving along Interstate 70 near Vandalia. He'd recently graduated from college and was driving home to Arcola from Tucson, Ariz. "There was some black ice on the highway, and the car in front of me spun off the road, then I went off the road, and as I was running up to the first car to see if anyone was hurt, a third car hit the ice," Bowles said. According to the accident report filled with the Illinois State Police, the third car did a 180-degree spin, then ran into the median ditch and flipped over twice. Bowles said he saw what looked like a little girl thrown from the car. Ten-year-old Kelsey Denton was thrown about 20 feet from the back seat of the car. Bowles ran over to the girl to see if he could help. "I put a blanket over her trying to keep her warm, checked her pulse and just sat with her until the paramedics came. I don't have any sort of special training. I learned some CPR in the Boy Scouts and the Navy, but just the usual things."

Coles County restaurants that have come and gone Pagliacci's Gill's Big Apple Pancake & Waffle House What's Cookin' Jerry's Pizza & Pub
Krispy Kreme Inc. said Monday it is expanding its menu collaboration with McDonalds in Kentucky  going from nine to 160 restaurants  and into a second major market in Lexington.

McDonalds in October began carrying three Krispy Kreme doughnut varieties  original glazed, chocolate iced with rainbow sprinkles and raspberry-filled.

The doughnuts are being delivered fresh daily from one of Krispy Kremes three restaurant locations in the Louisville market. They are being sold individually or in a six-pack of either original glazed or mixed flavors.

The expansion will launch March 21 with one adjustment to the options, replacing raspberry filled with chocolate iced filled.

Even with the significant expansion in Kentucky, the restaurants say the partnership remains in test phase.

The expanded test will help us learn more about operational impact on a larger scale, as well as explore customer demand, the chains said in a joint news release.

Doughnuts can also be delivered through the McDonalds app.

The chains cautioned that the test phase is for a limited time, while supplies last  so run, dough-nut walk to your nearest participating McDonalds to get a taste.

Mike Tattersfield, Krispy Kremes chief executive, told analysts during the companys Feb. 15 fourth-quarter earnings conference call that what weve learned in the test is that we can actually manage the operations rigor, the logistics rigor of how do you manage a quick-service restaurant customer from the time demand, the quality demand and the execution and how it works seamlessly with our delivered fresh daily route system.

Tattersfield said its fiscal 2023 performance will be led by continued expansion of our capital efficient omni-channel model as we aim to grow our fresh points of access by 10% to 15% in 2023.

Krispy Kreme reached 11,837 global points of access as of Jan. 1, up 13.5% from Jan. 1, 2022.

It has projected reaching at least 18,500 global points of access by fiscal 2026.

A likely source of much of that growth could come from its in-store partnership with McDonalds.

The deal to put Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnuts on a McDonalds menu could go beyond a test market to a symbiotic national relationship, according to a Wake Forest marketing professor.

Partnering with McDonalds offers Krispy Kreme a new go-to-market strategy that seems to offer strong upside potential, said Roger Beahm, a marketing professor at Wake Forest University School of Business.

McDonalds will be the first quick-service restaurant to feature Krispy Kreme doughnuts on its menu.

Bank of America Corp. analysts said the partnership could generate $350 million in annual sales, with Krispy Kreme likely getting 75% and McDonalds 25%.

Doughnuts would need to account for about 1% of McDonalds sales, or 4% of breakfast sales, to be considered a success, they said.

Beahm said the biggest positive factor for Krispy Kreme is the significantly greater number of McDonalds restaurants than Krispy Kreme factory stores where the doughnuts are made and sold to consumers, as well as the potential for trial by new customers.

In the Louisville market, there are 30 McDonalds locations, compared with three for Krispy Kreme.

This creates much greater access to the market virtually overnight, Beahm said. Consumers wont need to go so far out of their way to reach a Krispy Kreme sales outlet.

While the added convenience could cannibalize some of the Krispy Kreme factory store business, it will likely be more than offset by the incremental gains from the sale of products through McDonalds restaurants.

Bank of America analysts also said that Krispy Kreme could be the bigger benefactor.

While a successful run of the test, and subsequent broader rollout, could boost McDonalds sales, the impact would be more material for Krispy Kreme, according to the analysts note to investors.
The U.S. Supreme Court declined Monday to hear a R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. appeal of a lower-court ruling that allowed Los Angeles County to ban the sale of flavored tobacco products.

The ban went into effect in June and now stays in force with the Supreme Court decision, which was made without comment.

Reynolds could not be immediately reached for comment on the decision.

The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids lauded the Supreme Court decision as a tremendous victory for kids and public health.

It allows Los Angeles Countys law to remain in effect, while also preserving the authority of states and localities across the country to enact similar lifesaving measures.

Reynolds had appealed the L.A. County ban by saying state and local laws are preempted by the federal Tobacco Control Act.

Matt Myers, president of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said that no court has struck down a state or local restriction on the sale of flavored tobacco products as preempted by the Tobacco Control Act.

These courts include the First, Second and Ninth Circuit Courts of Appeal. There is simply no legal basis to deprive Los Angeles County, or any other locality or state, of the ability to protect their citizens against the flavored tobacco products that lure kids into a lifetime of nicotine addiction.

The decision comes about nine weeks after the Supreme Court turned away on Dec. 12 an appeal by several Reynolds American Inc. businesses to prevent California from enforcing a voter-approved statewide ban of most menthol and other flavored tobacco products.

That ban went into effect Dec. 21, covering such Reynolds affiliates American Snuff Co. LLC, Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Co. Inc., and R.J. Reynolds Vapor Co.

Reynolds Tobacco responded to the menthol cigarette ban by adding the words crisp and fresh on packages of non-menthol cigarettes.

That is part of Reynolds California, Weve Got You Covered campaign, which is being pitched to smokers through fliers and at retail outlets.

The L.A. Taco publication reported that a Reynolds ad says Weve got you ... the California menthol ban passed  we know its tough. We crafted two new non-menthol styles for you to choose from.

The new California-only Reynolds packaging for Newport  the top-selling U.S. menthol traditional cigarette and No. 2 overall  contains the phrase new non-menthol.

Reynolds already sells a non-menthol version of Newport that has miniscule sales compared with the menthol version.

Among the new Camel packaging is crisp and bold non-menthol green and the Camel Crush style (which traditionally features a crushable menthol capsule to change the flavor) as non-menthol tropical oasis.

Reynolds said in a statement that it is committed to providing adult smokers a range of acceptable products, while ensuring our continued adherence to all applicable laws.

Currently, these products are only available in California. We cannot comment on future marketing plans or strategies.

The statewide ban is particularly noteworthy because California smokers represent 7% to 8% of U.S. tobacco volume.

The prohibition is projected to cost California at least $100 million in state tobacco-tax revenue, according to the states independent Legislative Analysts Office.
State health regulators are being asked to approve an Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist community hospital in Greensboro that would cost an estimated $246.5 million to build.

The plan for a 36-bed Greensboro Medical Center was posted Monday by the N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation.

The division did not immediately respond to a request for the certificate-of-need (CON) application.

Baptist confirmed Monday it has submitted the CON application, and that the proposed site is at 2909 Horse Pen Creek Road in northern Greensboro.

On Friday, a Baptist affiliate paid $12.5 million for two properties off Horse Pen Creek Road, where it previously announced plans to open a $30.13 million multispecialty ambulatory surgical facility. That project received state approval in November.

The properties are listed as: a $10 million purchase of the vacant 32.96-acre tract at 2909 Horse Pen Creek Road; and a $2.5 million purchase of a tract listed as 2909 YY Horse Pen Creek Road.

Baptist said there would be two separate facilities on the same campus.

The 36 beds and two operating rooms would be transferred from High Point Medical Center, which Baptist owns.

Baptist said the hospital would be licensed as an additional campus of the High Point hospital, and the beds would remained under the High Point hospital license.

Baptist said the proposed hospital also would have two procedure rooms, an emergency department and other ancillary services.

Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist has had a presence in Greensboro for years, including a number of primary, specialty and urgent care clinics, Baptist said.

The $246 million represents a steep increase on construction and infrastructure costs given that the Baptist hospital in Bermuda Run, as well as the Novant Health Inc. hospitals in Clemmons and Kernersville, all were in the 50-bed, $100 million range when announced.

The Kernersville campus has been expanded at least two times since opening in March 2011.

CON process

Baptist said that as with all certificate of need applications, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services will conduct a thorough review process before making a decision.

A CON is required before a health care system or provider can build a facility, buy equipment or offer a surgical procedure, among other things.

The primary goal is to prevent unnecessary duplication of services within a community or region.

Baptists application is not considered as competitive by the division because it would represent a transfer of existing hospital beds to a new location.

However, a public hearing would be required on the plans. Written public comment is being accepted through March 31.

If the Greensboro plan is approved, the High Point hospital would still have 307 licensed beds, although hospital officials said that in 2018 that at least 100 beds tend to be unoccupied on a daily basis.

Although these (hospital) assets will be relocated to Greensboro, access to services in High Point will not be impacted, Baptist said.

Ambulatory surgical center

State health regulators approved the $30.13 million Baptist ambulatory surgical center in November.

The filing was focused on N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation granting approval to transfer to the new Greensboro center the equipment from two operating rooms at High Point Surgery Center and one operating room at Premier Surgery Center.

Meanwhile, the ambulatory surgical center would have no more than three operating and three procedure rooms.

It would offer surgical specialties in otolaryngology, ophthalmology, orthopedics (including spine) and urology.

The estimated opening date for the ambulatory surgical center is Oct. 1, 2024.

Baptist projects serving 1,374 patients at the center in its first year, and 2,158 in Year 3. About 60% of those patients would be from Guilford County.

New competition

The proposed hospital would provide competition for Cone Health in its home Greensboro market.

Cone Health will carefully study the proposal from Atrium Wake Forest Baptist High Point Medical Center to build a new hospital in Greensboro, Cone said in a statement.

For 70 years, Cone Health has been the health care provider of choice to people in the Greensboro area. In that time, we have developed a reputation for compassionate, nationally leading, high-quality health care. That will not change.
Facts are easy to find in this era of the internet. But good advice is somewhat more elusive. Since my brand is The Savage Truth, my goal has always been to expose my readers and viewers to the best advice that is not motivated by hidden costs and incentives.

Every year I find a book that fits the criteria of being truthful, helpful and easy to understand while opening your eyes to a new and better way of approaching personal finances.

For example, two years ago I advised you to buy "The Price You Pay for College" by Ron Lieber. Its filled with secrets about how to work through the college decisions that families must make. Lieber gives excellent guidance  and a new perspective  on the true value of a college education.

Last years best book was Larry Kotlikoffs thought-provoking "Money Magic: An Economist's Secrets to More Money, Less Risk and a Better Life." Kotlikoff  an expert on Social Security and creator of MaximizeMySocialSecurity.com  asks readers to rethink their attitudes about life-changing financial decisions ranging from the true costs of their housing to long-term career prospects and the real costs of marriage (and divorce)!

These are books that are truly worth the time to read  not just to get facts. A Google search will give you facts. The authors of these books offer perspective and a helping hand to deal with the facts and make decisions that actually improve your financial outcomes.

This year's addition to my must read list is "Retirement Reboot: Commonsense Financial Strategies for Getting Back on Track" by Mark Miller. The author, a columnist who has contributed for years to publications such as the New York Times and Morningstar, approaches retirement guidance from a realistic but positive perspective  no matter whether you think youre ready or not.

And, as Miller clearly explains, the vast majority of Americans approach retirement without resources that come close to replacing their pre-retirement income. But thats no reason to give up. "Retirement Reboot" offers a new approach to thinking about and financing those inevitable years. So, instead of living in anxiety or completely ignoring reality, let Miller help you understand and structure those years.

The first section is about timing your retirement. That decision may be foisted upon you by the company you work for  or it may result from your own unrealistic expectations for an early retirement. The chapter Managing Your Career to the Finish Line counsels you to make the most of your largest asset, your career. And if your job does retire from you, Miller has an encouraging chapter on becoming an entrepreneur after age 50, a move many retirees use not merely to bring in income but also to expand their social horizons. Its not only about money in retirement, as youll see in the chapter "Finding Your Purpose in Retirement.

This book is more than a pep talk about the possibilities of enjoying your later years. Its filled with practical advice on negotiating those critical decisions about when to take Social Security (yes, later is better!), deciding between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage, and tapping your home equity through a reverse mortgage or downsizing. And Miller guides you gently into the one topic most pre-retirees want to ignore: the potential need for  and cost of  long-term care. He explains the affordable choices.

Miller urges that it is never too late to build some retirement savings  even if you dont get started until after the kids are out of college. He has advice on maximizing retirement contributions later in life as well as investment products such as target-date funds (which are not all alike, even though they have the same target year). Equally helpful is his advice on finding a financial adviser you can trust.

I found myself nodding in agreement with Millers conclusions and appreciating his ability to make this information accessible and useful. I guess it comes down to this: "Retirement Reboot" is the best book you can buy today about personal financial planning for retirement. And thats The Savage Truth.

-

Terry Savage is a registered investment adviser and the author of four best-selling books, including "The Savage Truth on Money." Email her at terry@terrysavage.com.
A Nebraska lawmaker attempting to restrict abortion access within the state also wants to incentivize donations to pregnancy centers that oppose abortions.

The Legislature's Revenue Committee held a public hearing Friday on Legislative Bill 606, dubbed the "Nebraska Pregnancy Help Act." Its introducer, State Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston, said the centers that would benefit from the bill "empower unsupported women to choose a different and better future for themselves and their children."

Opponents portrayed the organizations as "anti-abortion centers," and accused them of often lacking the medical expertise of other reproductive health centers.

LB 606 would offer tax credits for donations to pregnancy centers that do not provide abortions. The bill would cap the total tax credits distributed at $10 million per year, with individual credits dependent on the donor's annual contribution.

Donations would only qualify for tax credits if the money goes to a certified charitable organization that assists women in carrying their pregnancies to term, helps with parenting or adoption, prevents abortions and promotes healthy childbirths. The organization cannot provide, refer or promote abortions, and cannot financially support any other organizations that do the same.

LB 606 accompanies LB 626, another Albrecht bill that would ban most abortions in the state once embryonic cardiac activity can be detected, which is usually around six weeks of pregnancy.

That bill advanced out of the Health and Human Services Committee earlier this week. Albrecht announced earlier Friday that she would make LB 626 her priority bill for the session, a move that will help ensure it comes up for debate by the full Legislature.

Albrecht said it was important for the Legislature to consider ways to bolster support for pregnant women.

"Whether you are pro-life or pro-choice, we can all agree that every woman and child deserves love and support," Albrecht said.

The Revenue Committee heard from several anti-abortion advocates and representatives of pregnancy centers in support of the bill, who largely attested to the need for these centers. Pregnancy center representatives vouched for the range of services the organizations offer, including ultrasounds, mental health services, food and post-abortion counseling.

Gina Tomes, a former employee with Bethlehem House in Omaha, described the women's shelter as a place that provides housing to women who "choose life."

"They are a bright light of compassionate care," said Karen Bowling, executive director of Nebraska Family Alliance.

Opponents to LB 606 included OpenSky Policy Institute, Planned Parenthood North Central States and ACLU of Nebraska, along with other abortion-rights advocates. Many opponents alleged the centers intentionally share misleading information to persuade women not to seek an abortion.

They also alleged most of centers do not hire licensed medical professionals despite portraying themselves as legitimate medical centers. Several opponents claimed these centers receive five times more funding nationwide than maternal medicine facilities, and argued they did not need additional state aid.

"This is not the bill to take care of mothers and babies," said Erin Feichtinger, policy director for the Women's Fund of Omaha.

Education researcher Carina McCormick said she doubted all of the information provided by supporting testifiers was accurate. But even if it was all true, she argued it would be unfair for Nebraska to provide tax credits benefiting these organizations and leave out all the other nonprofits within the state.

Joey Adler Ruane with OpenSky made a similar argument, saying that LB 606 gives preferential treatment to some charities over others.

Photos: 2023 Nebraska legislative session
Qabil Ashirov

The foreign trade turnover between Aktubinsk Region of Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan has grown seven times, Azernews reports, citing the local media.

A meeting was held between Governor of Mangistau Region Yeraly Togzhanov, and the acting head of the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Aktau, Elchin Mammadov.

At the meeting, the possibilities of developing economic relations between Aktubinsk and Azerbaijan were discussed and noted that economic relations are developing at a good pace.

They noted that foreign trade turnover for January-December 2022 amounted to $28.6 million, or 7 times higher compared to 2021.

Yeraly Togzhanov mentioned that Aktubinsk Region has close relations with many foreign countries and strengthening ties with Azerbaijan is of particular importance for Kazakhstan.

During the meeting of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, issues on the development of transport and logistics infrastructure were discussed. There are great prospects for the investment sector, he added.

Speaking about the relationship between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, Azerbaijans acting consulate noted that the main goal is to develop various connections, including in the business environment, and emphasized that the meeting today will help strengthen bilateral relations.

In the end, Yeraly Togzhanov presented the economic potential of the region and said that the region is a major transport and logistics hub of the country.

Over the past five years, we have attracted over $6bn dollars to the regional economy. Some 25% of these investments were foreign direct investments. There are 1,100 foreign enterprises, operating in the region, including many transnational companies, which indicates a high level of trust on the part of business, Eraly Togjanov said.

In the Aktobe region about 1,300 Azerbaijanis live, and the national center of the NGO Association of Azerbaijanis operates. The Association of Azerbaijanis contributes to the revival of the Azerbaijani national culture, native language, history, traditions, and customs.
Try this game on your next drive across Lincoln. What will you see first? A dirty car or a car wash ready to clean it?

A search for nearby car washes on any mobile navigation app leads to over 20 hits in a 10-mile radius from downtown Lincoln.

Its reflective of an expanding industry that has its tire treads all over Lincoln. And according to professionals in the industry, the local car wash surge doesnt appear to be slowing down anytime soon.

Just in the past few years, Lincoln-based JetSplash has opened new locations at 16th Street and Pine Lake Road and at 40th and South streets.

JetSplash now operates seven locations in Lincoln, but there's plenty of competition in the clean-car game.

National chain Tommy's Express entered the market in 2020 with a location near 70th and O streets.

Rocket Car Wash, a Nebraska-based company with eight locations in both Lincoln and Omaha, has added upgrades to a few of its locations in Lincoln. Most notably, theyve added an exterior washing and express detailing station to its Williamsburg location near 40th Street and Old Cheney Road, according to director of marketing Christiane Agee.

But why is there seemingly more of a focus on car owners and keeping their cars clean?

Matt Toombs, owner and founder of JetSplash, says the increase in the number of car washes is not just limited to Nebraska. Nationwide growth in the industry has been aided by an influx of outside funding, he said.

Car washing has kind of been the hot industry for the last five years. A lot of that is due to a lot of private equity money coming into the space that wasnt here before, Toombs said.

Toombs compared the general pattern of car wash expansion from the perspective of outside investors to a hub-and-spoke model. He said there are proven efficiencies for a car wash business to expand its footprint by having a centralized city with multiple locations, then placing locations in nearby markets.

For example, if we have 20 locations in Kansas City, itd make sense for us to have a spoke in Lincoln or a spoke in Omaha, Toombs said. All of a sudden, companies can have some efficiencies from the surrounding region as opposed to having some washes in one concentrated spot.

However, according to Toombs, a primary reason for the rise of car washes around Lincoln is due to a market inefficiency. Even with the new locations in Lincoln, there are only about 10 conveyorized car washes, where cars move through a tunnel on a conveyor belt.

Based on the model we have now in the car wash industry, thats no longer enough, Toombs said.

The combination of an underserved market and high demand has made growth in Lincoln inevitable, Agee said.

She said more people are understanding the importance of maintaining a clean car exterior, particularly in a state with highly variable weather like Nebraska.

Nebraska is a state with bad weather, road salt, things like that, Agee said. So I think more people are seeing that they need to take care of the exterior of their car, to protect their value.

Both Rocket Car Wash and JetSplash are longtime players in the local car wash scene. JetSplash is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2023, while Rocket Car Wash locations have been in Lincoln since 2007.

The secret to that longevity boils down to one central theme: convenience. Things like vacuuming and detailing stations at each location, on-site service attendants and consumer-friendly membership packages have helped both businesses maintain a solid customer base.

The loyalty of Lincoln drivers and their receptiveness to quality service has been a key to JetSplash's success, according to Toombs.

"Im pretty picky about how my car is cleaned, and they do a really good job, said Greg Baker, a Lincoln native and JetSplash rewards member.

He said the main appeal of a car wash membership for him is how efficiently he can get his car cleaned, but there are other factors as well.

The environment is very important to me, Baker said. I used to wash my car with a hose at home and it was such a waste of water. I understand why more and more people are using car washes; its just a lot faster.

Both Agee and Toombs noted that customers are extremely loyal to their car wash of choice, and for good reason. Owning a vehicle is a significant investment, and they said customers are more likely to frequent one car wash over another based on quality and experience.

People like the convenience, but theyre willing to drive a little bit more if the experience is better, Agee said.

Rocket Car Wash has four new Nebraska locations planned, one of which is in Lincoln near 84th Street and Nebraska Parkway.
More restaurants opened in Lincoln in 2022 than in any year since the debut of Pinnacle Bank Arena brought with it a surge in new dining options in 2013.

Robin Eschliman, a commercial real estate agent and co-host of "Grow Lincoln" on KLIN-AM, compiles the list of annual openings each year.

Notable openings included Fleetwood, a new restaurant in the Haymarket, and Well & Good, a dining spot in the new Scarlet Hotel on Nebraska Innovation Campus.

Eschliman's annual survey noted that 26 restaurants closed in 2022, including a couple of Lincoln landmarks. The Valentino's buffet at 70th and Van Dorn streets closed after being shut down during much of the pandemic, clearing the way for a doctor's office to take over the space. The Parthenon, which operated for close to 20 years, was replaced by the Mettle Grill in Lincoln's Edgewood Shopping Center.

Here's a selection of what was new in 2022:

MotorFood, 621 N. 48th St.: Have you ever had a grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with mac and cheese? Comfort foods with an extra twist make up the menu at this food truck-turned-restaurant.

L's Kitchen, 2785 S. 17th St.: Located in the former Normandy space, popular dishes include the Hungarian goulash and their secret recipe meatloaf. Large selection of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Raina's On the Run, 1120 N. Cotner Blvd.: Homestyle restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring omelets, spaghetti and catfish.

Wendy's, 6841 S. 27th St.: The fast-food chain added a new location on the northwest corner of 27th Street and Pine Lake Road.

Firehouse Subs, 5308 S. 56th St.: The national sandwich shop chain, known for donating proceeds to firefighters, opened its second Lincoln location at Edgewood.

Ms. Chen 56, 5601 S. 56th St.: Authentic Chinese cuisine featuring mei fun, wonton soup and chef's specials like the "Dragon and Phoenix."

Daq Shack, 4630 Leighton Ave.: Giving Lincolnites a taste of the beach, lobster and fried chicken are served alongside a tropical cocktail menu, and don't forget cotton candy cheesecake for dessert.

Lincoln's Pub, 4630 Leighton Ave.: Sharing a kitchen with Daq Shack, bar food favorites are locally sourced and a takeout option is available, called President's Takeout.

Kumbia's, 6100 O St.: New food court option at Gateway Mall.

Abelardo's, 5020 N.W. 12th St.: The chain known for fresh ingredients opened its third Lincoln location just off Interstate 80 near the airport.

Pho and Grill, 2901 S. 84th St.: Pho noodle soup, seafood pineapple fried rice and tofu rolls are all served at this authentic Vietnamese restaurant.

Sabor Latino, 2701 N. 48th St.: Dishes from Honduras and Mexico fill the menu, featuring seafood and street tacos and empanadas for dessert.

Pita & Naan, 1434 O St.: Gyros. Falafel. Shawarma. Get your fix of Mediterranean food in the heart of downtown Lincoln.

Vern & Ellies, 345 Speedway Circle: A drive-thru homestyle restaurant with handmade brats and stuffed green peppers to give a taste of home.

Heoya South, 1501 Pine Lake Road: The Asian fusion restaurant offers sandwiches, noodles and Korean BBQ tacos.

Lila Mae's Southern Kitchen, 2110 Winthrop Road: Bringing a taste of the South to Lincoln, the restaurant serves lunch and dinner and is named for owner Tramesha Cruse's great-grandmother, who taught her how to cook.

Oishii Japanese Steakhouse, 2949 N. 27th St.: Translating to "delicious" in English, Oishii is Lincoln's newest hibachi-style restaurant, allowing guests to watch their food being prepared.

Little Caesars, 4646 W. Huntington Ave.: Little Caesars opened its fourth Lincoln location in Lincoln's Air Park neighborhood.

Chef Shawarma, 831 N. 48th St.: Drive-thru Mediterranean cuisine served straight off a cooking spit.

Masa Sushi, 1701 Pine Lake Road: A sushi bar with every possible sushi combination imaginable, including local favorites the UNL roll and I-80 roll.

Domino's Pizza, 2801 Pine Lake Road: Domino's has expanded to six Lincoln locations.

QDOBA Mexican Eats, 2900 Cooper Ridge Drive: Fast-casual chain moved into former Salsarita's space in south Lincoln.

B&T's Diner, 4700 Vine St.: A diner tucked in on Vine Street serving homestyle breakfast and lunch options like omelets and patty melts.

Chipotle, 4465 N. 27th St.: National chain added location in north Lincoln.

Panera Bread, 4449 N. 27th St.: Just steps away from Chipotle, the national chain opened its fourth Lincoln location.

Well & Good, 2101 Transformation Drive: Located in the Scarlet Hotel, the restaurant and bar follows a Nebraska theme with its lunch and dinner menu.

Mettle Grill, 5500 S. 56th St.: Located at Edgewood, the restaurant boasts a full sandwich and burger menu, with beer on tap and specials at the bar.

Fleetwood, 801 O St.: The modern American grill located in the heart of the Haymarket features beef short ribs smothered in beet and port reduction.

Los Gonzalez, 2310 N. First St.: Authentic Mexican cuisine featuring birria and known for its cheese pull served everyday.

Taj Ali, 1501 Pine Lake Road: Middle Eastern restaurant opened its second location in Lincoln next door to Juice Stop and Paint Yourself Silly.
The Norris Board of Education appointed an attorney who works in the Legislature to fill a seat vacated when longtime board member Patty Bentzinger died last month.

The board selected Stephanie Meese of Hickman to fill the Ward 2 seat over five other candidates who were interviewed at a special meeting Thursday, including one who narrowly lost to Bentzinger in November's general election.

Bentzinger, who served on the board for nearly 29 years  including as president since 1997  died Jan. 15 at age 76 after dealing with health issues.

Meese, a graduate of the Nebraska College of Law, is the legal counsel for the Legislative Audit Office, which reviews and audits state programs.

She has also been involved in the Norris PTO for the past six years, including serving on its executive board as secretary and later co-president. She and her husband John have two children in the district.

Education also runs in her family: Her father was a school guidance counselor in Harvard, where she graduated from high school.

"As the child and grandchild of educators, I recognize the importance a school board plays in supporting the success of a school district," Meese said during her interview.

Aaron Wubbels -- who defeated longtime board member Jim Craig in November's election -- argued, however, that the board should pick Justin Drahota, who lost to Bentzinger by a mere five votes.

"... For me it's a one-horse race in that Justin Drahota should be that person because the people have spoke in the election in November," Wubbels said.

Candidates for the Norris school board are nominated by wards but elected at-large.

In a Facebook post last month, Drahota argued that state statute allows for a special election when an incumbent dies.

"Due to the unusual set of circumstances ... we believe that a special election should be held so that the public, not the board, determines who the next Ward 2 representative and board member should be," Drahota wrote.

After candidates were interviewed, Wubbels made a motion to appoint Drahota but the motion failed. The board ultimately voted 4-1 to appoint Meese with Wubbels being the lone no vote.

Drahota and Wubbels are both Republicans and Meese is a Democrat, according to voter registration data. The board is officially nonpartisan.

Board members praised Meese's policy experience in the Legislature, where she also worked as a legislative staffer for a state senator.

"I think her expertise in that would be very helpful for the board," Rhonda Burbach said.

Top Journal Star photos for February 2023
Seven years ago, Tessa Domingus was on parole, living at her moms house on a farm in southeastern Nebraska, no longer using drugs, but isolated and unsettled, feeling the urge to slip back into a life she wanted to leave behind.

She dug out a laminated index card with a name and phone number from the box of belongings shed taken with her from prison. She picked up her phone and dialed.

Destinie Commuso answered, like shed said she would.

Come to Lincoln, said the woman on the other end of the phone. Come tomorrow.

Domingus was serving time on a drug charge when she met Commuso, who helped facilitate a Mental Health Association of Nebraska support group for people in prison.

Years earlier, Commuso had completed drug court, beating a meth addiction that had begun when she was 11 and running drugs for her dad. Shed been in recovery for years, had become a peer specialist for the mental health association, using her experiences to help others.

That day in prison, one of the group exercises had been to write the names and phone numbers of five support people on index cards. Domingus could think of only two  her mom and grandma. Commuso noticed, told her to put her name down, too.

Now out of prison and at her moms urging, Domingus made the call and the 90-minute drive to Lincoln. She was greeted by Commuso and Kasey Parker, executive director of the mental health association, and others in recovery with their own stories of struggle and addiction, recovery and triumph.

These were the peer specialists whod helped her in prison  had shown her, by example, that life held more possibilities than shed dared imagine.

There were all these individuals with similar lived experiences as me and doing really different things with their lives, she said. I knew I could stay off drugs, but I didnt think I could build a life for myself Id be proud of, that would give me purpose, she said.

She felt hope for the first time in prison that day, she said. When she called Commuso and drove to Lincoln, she started turning that hope into reality.

She began volunteering for the association, then working on-call. She was certified as a peer specialist and hired full-time to work at Honu Home, a transitional living home for people recently released from prison.

Today, she knows how to manage the mental health issues shed struggled with from childhood, had used drugs to try to numb their effects for so long.

She's coordinated various programs for the health association and is now overseeing the opening of a second transitional living home in Omaha. She has a husband, owns a home, regained custody of her children and has reestablished relationships with them. She's a grandma now.

But heres the thing: Shes not the only success story to walk through the doors of Honu Home.

This house is full of these stories, she said. We get to watch this (change) with everyone around us.

***

The turtles that grace the walls of Honu Home  the stuffed animals that loiter on the furniture, the porcelain centerpiece that graces a table, the real ones living in a giant fish tank  mean something to those who live and work in the space.

Like its name  Honu means turtle in Hawaiian  theyre a reminder of a philosophy that guides them.

You can retreat into your shell, but you must venture out. Recovery  like the turtle  is slow, but it will move you forward.

Honu Home's longtime director Alan Green used the turtle metaphor to help Parker when her anxiety nearly overwhelmed her, back when the two were starting something new.

In 2001, Parker worked for an agency that got a federal grant to help people who had dealt with their own mental health or substance abuse issues, who had survived trauma and the effects of growing up in poverty have a voice in policy-making and community-based services.

In 2005, they hired Green as director of the mental health association and Parker began working for him the following year, eventually succeeding Green as executive director. The association offers a variety of programs using peer specialists, including a respite home for people in crisis, which Parker decided to call Keya House (the Lakota word for turtle), that opened in 2009.

In 2015, the mental health association got a state grant through a new program to help people leaving prison, part of a Legislative prison reform effort.

Honu Home opened soon after, a five-bedroom house in a southeast Lincoln neighborhood for people on parole or supervised probation, or who have been released after finishing their sentences.

The mental health association supplements the state grant and state housing payments with other funding, allowing residents to stay longer than the state will pay for housing.

Thats not enough time for some of our people to get on their feet, Parker said.

Two years after Honu House opened, theyd outgrown that space and moved to their current home near 56th Street and Pioneers Boulevard, which can house 20 people.

The demand is great, but Parker believes they offer the kind of services and support important to help people leaving prison.

Last year more than 1,400 people were released from prison, according to state corrections records.

Though the number of eligible inmates paroled dropped from 78% to 58% between 2018 and 2020, the number of people released on supervised probation has increased 70% in the last decade, according to a 2023 report by the Crime and Justice Institute on the states prison overcrowding crisis.

The report recommended, among other things, greater residential housing support. A bill in the Legislature would create baseline health and safety standards for such homes, require inspections, track program use, outcomes and expenses.

Parker testified in favor of the bill, and said for-profit homes cropping up in Lincoln and Omaha often dont comply with basic fire and safety codes and require too many people to live together, often with little to no supervision and programming.

Those homes have become an issue for city officials facing requests from the groups for zoning waivers to allow 10 or more people to live in the homes.

It makes me very angry, she said. We, as a nonprofit, get funding from parole and probation but we have programs, therapists - that money is being put back in their care, not in somebody's pocket.

***

Honu House is designed for those who want to be there and live their lives differently, not because someone is telling them to stay there, Parker said.

They have employment specialists on staff to help residents find jobs, and outreach workers to help find housing when theyre ready to leave, and if they need other services, Honu Home will connect them.

Peer specialists help them overcome the barriers they face coming out of prison.

And there are many: housing, transportation, accessing health care, simply reacclimating to a world that  for people who've been in prison a long time  has changed.

Theres a room with food from the Lincoln Food Bank, and staff teaches residents how to cook meals on a slim budget. Theyve taught people incarcerated for much of their lives how to drive. They show them how to be good neighbors. They help them learn to navigate smart phones and the internet.

Commuso said as peer specialists who've experienced much of the same kinds of trauma, poverty, mental health issues or substance abuse, they are in a good position to help others.

"People sit in (the trauma). We use our experience to help them move forward."

Everyone at Honu Home gets their own room and a key so they can lock it  something particularly important for people coming out of prison where theres been no privacy, Parker said.

Shes had people cry when shes handed them a key, those whove told her theyve never had a bed other than a mattress on the floor.

When they get to experience a place that is safe, where they can lock their own doors and its clean . . . they see an example of how it can be better for them, Parker said.

And they deserve that.
When you ask Cody Schmick to talk about Kinkaider Brewing and its expansion on the Lincoln scene from tap house four years ago to three concepts now, he's quick to dive in.

"We love Nebraska," said Schmick, who ended up moving to Lincoln from Broken Bow with his family.

He and the three others at the core of Kinkaider  Dan Hodges, Barry Fox and Nate Bell  feel like doubling down and investing in Nebraska is extremely important, Schmick said.

"We all live here. We were all born and raised here. We want to see it grow. We want to be able to build cool things that keep people in communities. We want to help shape culture in the small way that we can," Schmick said. "Really that's our driving force behind all of this."

The four met 10 years ago in Broken Bow. Schmick and his wife moved there after buying the grocery store. And he started trying to bring in some unique craft beers to the market, something the area didn't have a ton of access to at the time.

Hodges and Bell were in a brew club together and invited Schmick, the new kid in town. A dozen guys in the back of an insurance office in downtown Broken Bow, sharing beers and stories.

They became friends, and the four wrote up a business plan to start a craft brewery in "Busch Light country."

At the time there were 20 or 30 breweries in the state, compared to the more than 70 now.

"I saw what a thriving little community that was and I thought, man, I know this place can support a craft brewery," Schmick said. "So we invested in Broken Bow."

They bought a 4-acre farm looking out onto the Sandhills.

"We really didn't know each other all that well, the four of us. But we had that common goal of bringing craft beer and a local brewery to the community," he said.

In the nine years since, Kinkaider has grown into a community hub, the kind of place where people not only stop for a pint, but also go to celebrate weddings and birthdays, Schmick said.

"Honestly, they just get it," he said of Broken Bow.

Whether they were craft beer people or not, Schmick said, people were interested in what they were doing, appreciated their investment in the community and gave them a chance to show what they could do.

They've since expanded their space and added a restaurant and bed-and-breakfast. They opened a location in Grand Island in 2017.

In 2018, Kinkaider came to Lincoln, opening a tap room in the former train depot in the Haymarket.

"We found a home in Lincoln," Schmick said.

He said he and his wife moved here "because I saw so much potential in Lincoln. We've made a lot of investment in Lincoln."

In 2020, they opened Sideshow Spirits, which he describes as Lincoln's first legal distillery, near 17th and P streets.

"Now the beer house," Schmick said, referring to Bierhaus Maisschaler (the German word for cornhusker) at Eighth and P streets.

He said they'd been talking about the idea of starting a German beer house for a while.

"It just felt like a really good fit," he said.

Schmick said people thought they were crazy to put it so close to Kinkaider's tap room. You don't even have to cross a street to get from one to the other.

"But we felt like the concepts and the feel, the vibe were different enough, and it's really worked well. They feed off of each other," he said. "We love the Haymarket."

Asked what's in store next, given they've had new projects in Lincoln every two years, Schmick said: "100% be expecting something in 2024."

He said it's not something he can talk about yet. But they are working on something. Stay tuned.

"We've invested a lot, but it's been great," he said. "People seem really appreciative here of us bringing new concepts and new things to Lincoln. The first legal distillery ever. The only German beer house."

During a tough few years with the pandemic, Schmick said they didn't come away unscathed but fought their way through it and credits the internal culture of their crew, which has pulled together.

"Because we had so many of us pulling the same direction, while we got our bumps and our scrapes and bruises, we came out of it in a really good place," he said. "What we're seeing now is we're building back even better than we were pre-COVID."

Schmick said 2022 was their best year ever.

It really just kind of came together, he said.

"Our theme is continuing to sell Nebraska, to invest in Nebraska, whether it be in Lincoln or surrounding communities. That's super important to us," Schmick said.
The Lancaster County Republican Party went on the offensive Monday, condemning vandalism at a Republican event Saturday night and what they argue was the suppression of free speech at a recent Lancaster County Board meeting.

Demonstrators gathered outside the partys Lincoln-Reagan dinner Saturday at Suite One Eleven in the Clocktower shopping center where Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk was the featured speaker  a common occurrence in other cities where Kirk has spoken.

Later, party leaders found an expletive against Nazis spray-painted in black on the front of the building. Surveillance video shared by the party showed two hooded people coming to the venue at night, peering inside, then spray-painting on the front of the building.

We believe in peaceful protest and that open dialogue is a critical component of a healthy Republic, but we stand firmly against any attempt to silence opposing views through violent means, said Lancaster County GOP Chairman Samuel Lyon. The act of vandalism and destruction of property is a clear violation of the law and must be condemned.

The vandalism was reported to police, and a spokesman said it caused $150 damage. No one has been cited.

Lyon said party headquarters have twice been hit by vandals, once last summer when a brick was thrown through the window and two weeks ago, when someone defecated in the entryway.

Lyon and other party leaders also reiterated their criticism of a County Board meeting last week, where Matt Schulte, the newest board member, brought a proposed resolution forward to end the countys emergency declaration enacted at the start of the pandemic.

Lyon and several other people appeared to speak on the issue, but didnt get to do so because Schultes motion was not seconded. Board Chairman Christa Yoakum said the boards long-standing policy is to allow comment on an agenda item after theres been a motion and second.

The boards rules don't allow the public to speak during the public comment period at the end of the meeting on items that have been on the agenda. This meant the speakers couldnt talk about the emergency declaration last week.

Lyon and others plan to come to Tuesdays County Board meeting to argue that the emergency declaration be ended now, and he expects theyll be able to address it during the public comment period since its not on the agenda.

Still, Republican party officials said the board used parliamentary procedure to suppress public comment last week.

If the people do not have an opportunity to speak, then what is the point of an open meetings act? said Nebraska Republican Party Chairman Eric Underwood.

Lyon said they plan to seek an amendment to LB637, a bill introduced by Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston that would require public bodies to allow public comment at every meeting. The proposed amendment would prohibit public bodies from limiting what the public can speak about.

Other County Board members have said they expect the emergency health declaration will be lifted in May, when the federal government does. Health Department officials have said they are waiting for details about how the end of the federal declaration will affect local governments, including their access to vaccines and COVID-19 tests, as well as getting federal relief and stimulus payments.

Lyon said the local declarations should have ended when the state ended its emergency declaration in June.

Ending it when its time to end it restores public trust, he said.
The day Sen. Joni Albrecht announced the latest abortion-limiting bill, she estimated the legislation would ban 85% of abortions in Nebraska.

The Thurston lawmaker and supporters of the proposal (LB626) repeatedly invoked the figure during a hearing earlier this month.

Some opponents, though, argue LB626 effectively amounts to an abortion ban.

And others have questioned how exceptions listed in the legislation, such as for pregnancies resulting from sexual assault, will work in practice, and whether those exceptions undermine the goal of limiting abortion or create a chilling effect that will prevent women from seeking and receiving critical medical care.

The debate raises the question: What percentage of abortions will the bill actually prevent?

According to various experts, that answer depends on several factors  factors that are likely to be part of the debate as LB626 moves to the full Legislature for consideration. Supporters will need 33 votes to overcome a filibuster promised by opponents. Recent reporting and history indicate it will be a close vote.

The bill

LB626 would ban abortions in Nebraska once embryonic cardiac activity can be detected via ultrasound, which typically happens at about six weeks of pregnancy. This is what Albrecht and others base the 85% estimate on, which draws from Department of Health and Human Services data.

The departments 2021 report on abortions showed that less than 14% of women who received abortions did so at five weeks or earlier in their pregnancies.

However, not all pregnancies result in detectable cardiac activity at six weeks. Its rare for it to happen later, but it is possible, and that could affect the number of legal abortions in the state from year to year. Between 2018 and 2021, the DHHS data shows that six weeks was the most common time abortions took place, making up 15% to 25% of all abortions each year.

The bills opponents argue most women dont realize theyre pregnant before six weeks, and those who do would have limited time to make a decision. Physicians on both sides of the debate said the absolute earliest women can typically find out they are pregnant is at four weeks.

LB626 does provide exceptions for abortions in the case of rape, incest or medical emergencies. Albrecht has repeatedly said the bill aims to stop elective abortions, though the term elective abortion is not used in the legislation, nor is it present in the Nebraska DHHS data.

DHHS does track the reasons women give for receiving abortions. By far, the most common between 2018 and 2021 was contraception failures or no contraception being used, which accounted for roughly 55% to 62% of all abortions each year. Those are the abortions Albrecht said she especially wants to prevent  women who are using abortions as a form of birth control.

Reasons that would presumably count as exceptions under the bill, such as physical health concerns, sexual assault and incest, were less common, ranging from 4% to 6% each year. A bigger portion of women, about 30%, declined to share their reasoning.

Medical emergencies

The number of reported abortions in Nebraska ranged between 2,000 and about 2,400 per year between 2018 and 2021, according to DHHS data. Multiple physicians said there are other medical procedures that effectively terminate a pregnancy but arent considered an abortion and arent included in the data.

Lincoln maternal fetal medicine physician Sean Kenney, who supports LB626, has performed such procedures to save the life of the mother. He said he does not consider such treatment an abortion.

I didnt do an abortion, Kenney said. I saved her life.

Most Nebraska physicians do not perform elective abortions, regardless of their personal opinion on the procedure. In 2021, five physicians performed all of the 2,360 abortions that took place in the state, with just two performing more than 99% of them.

Lifesaving pregnancy terminations are fairly rare, Kenney said. But opposing physicians said the lack of a clear definition for a medical emergency could jeopardize their careers and the health of their patients.

Were all concerned about the terminology within this bill, said Papillion family medicine physician Jenn Harney.

Under LB626, the definition of a medical emergency depends on the reasonable medical judgment of each physician. In general, they would be cases in which treatment is needed to prevent the mothers death, or for which a delay in terminating her pregnancy will create a serious risk of substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.

Albrecht has given multiple examples for what conditions could qualify under the bill, not all of which are circumstances in which the mother is in an immediate life-or-death scenario. Examples include cancer treatments or cases in which the fetus has little chance of surviving out of the womb.

Multiple physicians, both in support and against the bill, cited fetal anomalies as one of the more common pregnancy complications that can lead to the discussion of termination, though those cases are still somewhat rare. Fetal anomalies made up roughly 1% of the reasons for abortions each year in Nebraska between 2018 and 2021, according to DHHS.

Albrecht told the Omaha World-Herald that she doesnt want to interfere with a physicians medical judgment in these situations.

But multiple opposing physicians argued that is exactly what LB626 would do.

Omaha and Council Bluffs OB-GYN Maureen Boyle said the threat of losing her medical license would be enough to make her think twice before providing essential medical care if she isnt certain what qualifies as an exception under the bill.

Other physicians expressed similar fears.

How sick do we let people get? asked Omaha OB-GYN Mary Kinyoun.

Under the bill, complaints about potential violations would be reported to DHHS, Albrecht said. If the department does not find evidence of a violation, the complaint is dismissed. If evidence is found, the complaint goes to a hearing before the states chief medical officer and Board of Medicine and Surgery.

Kenney said aside from the two physicians who performed the majority of abortions in Nebraska, the only physicians who should be concerned about the bill are ones who arent doing their jobs correctly.

Several other physicians who support LB626 said they dont believe the bill will change their practice, nor would it make them hesitate to provide essential care.

This bill being in place would not even cross my mind, said Omaha and Lincoln maternal fetal medicine physician Elena Kraus.

Sexual assault

Opponents have also raised concern about the bills sexual assault exception, specifically regarding the level of reporting required for victims to receive an abortion. Some critics have claimed victims would need to file a police report, though Albrecht has said that is not true.

According to Albrecht, a physician would only need to note in writing that sexual assault is the reason for the abortion, and offer the patient victim resources.

However, existing state law may complicate the process, said Mailyn Fidler, an assistant criminal law professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who has spoken against LB626.

For adult victims, Fidler said Nebraska law requires physicians to report cases of sexual assault that result in an injury. Failing to do so is a misdemeanor. The concern is that an abortion may qualify as an injury resulting from a sexual assault, which would then require the physician to report it, she said.

Unnecessary reporting requirements would add trauma to victims and is emotionally manipulative, according to Omaha psychiatrist and telehealth provider Sharon Hammer.

Were really revictimizing them, Hammer said.

Albrecht said she doesnt believe an abortion would qualify as an injury from a sexual assault if the victim seeks treatment immediately after, which she expects most victims do.

If youre raped, do you not want to go immediately to the hospital? Albrecht asked.

Other opponents have pointed out that sexual assaults go largely unreported, and victims may not feel comfortable disclosing their experience, even to their doctor.

Albrecht said if they dont want to disclose it, they can still receive an abortion in another state.

You have to take it upon yourself, she said.

Mental health

One exception the bill does not include is abortions sought for mental health reasons. The bill specifies that a medical emergency does not include cases when a woman may engage in conduct which would result in her death or in substantial and irreversible physical impairment of a major bodily function.

Fidler said she suspects that was included to close a loophole allowing mental health exceptions that were included in abortion restrictions that existed before the Roe v. Wade ruling in 1973.

Mental health was listed as the reason for about 3% to 5% of Nebraskas annual abortions between 2018 and 2021, according to DHHS.

Nebraska mental health professionals also have objected to the bill. Omaha psychiatrist and telehealth provider Meghan Sheehan called LB626 barbaric and cruel.

Hammer said women with mental health issues are more likely to encounter pregnancy complications due to physiological stressors that mental illnesses can have on the body. Its unclear whether those would qualify as an exception under the bill.

Hammer and Sheehan took issue with LB626 seemingly ignoring mental health as a medical issue, and said the legislation could trigger more demand for mental health providers who are already in short supply in Nebraska.

Thats just such a big denial of the truth of things, Sheehan said.

Other options

Albrecht acknowledges Nebraska women will still have the option to travel out of state to receive an abortion. Her goal, she said, is to ensure Nebraska does not become a similar destination for other women.

Nebraskas current law bans abortions at 20 weeks past fertilization.

Andi Curry Grubb, executive director of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska, said the organization works within a collective of five other states, three of which still have abortion access, including Nebraska. If LB626 passes, she said the organization can work within that network to ensure women can still get an abortion.

Were going to continue, as an organization, to do everything we can to help people access care, she said. Everything thats legally allowable to us.

That option will likely be challenging for women with lower incomes. Several opponents argued that the bill and its provisions will still allow wealthier women to access abortions.

If out-of-state options are off the table, opponents have expressed concerns that women will seek out dangerous methods to end their pregnancies. Several critics argued LB626 would ban safe abortions.

Kacie Ware of Omaha made that argument at a Planned Parenthood news conference earlier this month. When she got pregnant as a high school sophomore because of an abusive relationship, she said she went through the courts to obtain access to an abortion without her parents permission. Had the courts denied her that access, she said she would have resorted to dangerous measures instead.

I would have done just about anything to end that pregnancy, Ware said.

Photos: 2023 Nebraska legislative session
KENOSHA  Carthage College welcomed more than 50 educators from Racine, Kenosha and cities in northern Illinois for the inaugural Urban Education Summit on Jan. 19.

The one-day conference featured a variety of self-care techniques for urban K-12 teachers. Its theme, Finding Peace Within, also connected to the Martin Luther King Day celebration earlier that week.

Keynote speaker Michele Hancock, vice president of college culture for inclusion and founder of the Urban Teacher Preparation Program at Carthage, urged teachers and administrators to prevent burnout by incorporating healthy selfishness into their work and lives.

When you ask for help, oftentimes big things happen, Hancock said.

The gathering included sessions on journaling, yoga and professional growth. Speakers drew a parallel to pre-flight instructions that caution airline passengers to help themselves before assisting others.

Self-care is not just a buzzy term, said Nina Weisling, an assistant professor of education at Carthage. To do your job, you have to put on your oxygen mask first.

In her session, Weisling also summarized brain research that underscores the need for culturally responsive teaching. Considered essential for successful urban teachers, that approach factors in the diverse concepts of courtesy and family that students bring to school.

Kids cannot learn without a genuine sense of peace in their space, she explained.

Two Kenosha community leaders, Tamarra Coleman (executive director of the Shalom Center) and Alvin Owens (owner of Regimen Barber Collective and founder of the Education Youth Development Outreach program), detailed the positive impact that community collaboration has on urban education.

Directed by Carthage education professor Siovahn Williams, the UTPP is the most immersive program of its kind in Wisconsin. Teacher candidates begin their fieldwork right away as freshmen, with guidance from experienced master teachers.

Six student workers for the urban education program assisted with the summit, which organizers hope to make an annual event.
RACINE  There has been a lot of talk recently about addressing learning loss in schools and, coming out of the pandemic, this has been a primary focus of educators.

However, in the Racine Unified School District, this does not mean that students in need of greater academic challenge have been forgotten.

In RUSD, staff work to meet the needs of each student individually.

Recently, this meant revamping the Gifted and Advanced Program. Not only are there new staff driving the program, these individuals have also developed a universal screening program for all students to ensure access to the program is equitable and not only available to students whose guardians may be more in the know.

Students may be identified as gifted and advanced in one or more categories: general intellectual, specific academic area, leadership, creativity and fine arts.

While some schools and school districts solely rely on teacher or parent referrals for testing and placement in these areas, RUSDs program is more inclusive.

In addition to referrals, the district also does universal screenings to identify students as gifted and advanced in any one of those categories.

These screenings take place at the beginning of the year for fifth-graders and mid-year for second-graders.

Offerings

Once students are identified as gifted and advanced, they each receive a differentiation plan.

Some students may receive early access to kindergarten, single-subject acceleration or even grade acceleration, while other students receive additional enrichments.

RUSD offers gifted and advanced students access to different programs like Empower, which is a leadership program.

Extended lessons like those offered through the National Geographic Explorer Classroom Program provide virtual scientist visits and the ability to work on passion projects.

In addition, students participate in other beneficial experiences like escape rooms to boost problem-solving skills, summer camps tailored to their interests and opportunities like science fairs and leadership conferences that they learn about from a newsletter they receive regularly.

They also have access to programs across the state and region through the Wisconsin Association for Talented & Gifted and CESA 1 Partners for the Advancement of Gifted Education.

At the high school level, there are even greater challenges and opportunities available to students who demonstrate advanced academic abilities.

There are opportunities for students to earn college credits while attending high school through UW-Parkside, Gateway Technical College, the International Baccalaureate Programme and Advanced Placement.

The UW-Parkside Access to College Credit program is open to students at Case, Horlick, Park and Walden III.

REAL School students take college level engineering courses through Gateway Technical College at the SC Johnson iMET Center, Case students can take part in the International Baccalaureate Programme and AP courses are open to all RUSD high school students.

To learn more about the RUSDs gifted and advanced options, email giftedandadvanced@rusd.org.
MOUNT PLEASANT  The 39th annual Racine Home Expo on Saturday and Sunday saw more than 50 distributers welcome guests with demonstrations, samplings and anything else they might need for their next great home project.

The expo, held for the second year in a row at Roma Lodge, 7130 Spring St., was hosted by Wisconn Valley Media Group, the parent company of The Journal Times.

For nearly four decades, the event has been used as a way to connect current or potential home owners, amateur do-it-yourselfers and seasoned home repair professionals with licensed local businesses.

Vendors at the event included purveyors of various services, ranging from external home needs such as storm windows and roofing to inside items such as cabinets and bathroom renovation.

Any kind of service a homeowner might need to repair, renovate or remodel could be found at the expo.

Larry Vail, owner and president of Jims Garage Door Service, has participated in the Home Expo since it began.

He said he likes the opportunity that shows like the expo provide to meet potential customers face-to-face.

Because were the kind of business where you call me and I schedule an appointment and I send my tech out to fix your door, I dont ever meet you, Vail said. Its nice to come to these shows and shake hands and meet people. The beauty of these shows is that it gets you into the public, gets people to see you, gets you a chance to talk to people and shake hands.

The expo also was a great venue for people looking to have work done on their homes.

Roger and Sue Keland were in the market for a new sump pump, but theyve attended past shows to find services like doors and windows  and even picked up a new cover for their SunSetter awning from Jims Garage Door Service.

We like to do local, Sue said. We like to have local people come and help and support their business.

Wesley Rosenberg, owner of Building Waters Inc., one of the Expos sponsors, said the shows are a great way to bring together homeowners and vendors.

This is all the stuff that we offer, Rosenberg said, gesturing to the different services and displays his plumbing company had for sale. In this place, the home show has people looking for this kind of stuff. So were putting two and two together, putting the pieces together. So its working out great so far.

Your everyday toolkit: Keep these items on hand for home repairs Basic toolbox Keep a box with these essential basics: tape measure, claw hammer, utility knife, level, crescent wrenches, hex keys, a handsaw, pliers, multiple screwdrivers and a collection of screws and nails. Try to keep it organized and easily accessible; its very easy for a tool box to dissolve into chaos if you dont keep things in proper order. Youll thank yourself later on when you need to find a particular screwdriver for a task. Fire extinguisher Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher per floor. If you have only one, make sure its near the kitchen, where most home fires start. Look for an ABC-rated unit that will extinguish all fire types. Teach everyone in the home where it is and how to use it. While youre at it, make sure your family has a plan to escape in the event of fire, and practice it. Drill and drill bits A battery-powered drill and driver is an essential home tool. Add a selection of drill bits in many sizes to be ready for whatever you need. The standard 12-volt cordless drill you can find at many big-box stores should provide more than enough juice for most home purposes. Emergency supply kit The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends keeping an easily accessible kit with these items for emergencies: three days of food for every person in the house, 1 gallon of water per day per person, first-aid kit, flashlight, weather radio, basic tools, dust masks, plastic sheets, garbage bags, can opener, medicine, hygiene products and cellphone charger. You can find more details from FEMA at Ready.gov/kit. Stepladder/step stool A must-have for many household needs. Many injuries take place due to people using chairs or other inappropriate stand-ins for a ladder. Remember to practice ladder safety: Never go beyond its recommended top step, dont try to reach just a few inches more, and have a buddy hold and stabilize the ladder for you. Safety equipment Keep plastic gloves, leather gloves, dust masks, ear protection and eye protection on hand. You never know when a job might call for them. Its wise to use protection during a wide variety of tasks  a mishap during yard work or while using a drill can lead to an eye injury. You can usually find safety kits that will include all the basics you need.
A Memorandum of Understanding and Agreement on cooperation was signed between AzerGold CJSC and the Ministry of Mining and Geology of Uzbekistan, Azernews reports, citing the company.

The memorandum was signed within the framework of the 1st Uzbekistan-Azerbaijan Interregional Forum organized in Tashkent, by the Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO), and with the support of the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Economy of Azerbaijan.

According to the company, the memorandum includes the establishment of joint cooperation in the field of geological exploration and development of discovered gold deposits in Uzbekistan. The document was signed by the chairman of AzerGold, Zakir Ibrahimov, and the deputy minister of Mining and Geology, Azam Kadirkhojayev.

In accordance with the memorandum, AzerGold CJSC plans to study existing geological information about the areas of occurrence of noble metal ore in Uzbekistan, involving experienced specialists in activities related to research and development of gold deposits, to provide mutual technical support, and to prepare concrete proposals for the implementation of projects, AzerGold said.

Noting that in order to evaluate the possibilities of joint cooperation between the two countries in the field of mining and geology, mutual visits of the delegations were carried out and discussions were held on institutional issues before.

During the discussions, the prospects of cooperation in the field of exploration and production of non-ferrous and ferrous metal ore deposits, exchange of experience on innovation and modern technologies, personnel training, and professional development were considered, and an agreement was reached on the initial directions of cooperation.

The parties expressed confidence that a mutually beneficial cooperation will be established between the Republic of Uzbekistan, which is one of the world's largest gold producers and has rich experience in this field, and AzerGold CJSC, which applies advanced technologies in the field of mining and geology, in the direction of implementing joint projects in both countries.

For this purpose, at the initial stage, the parties positively evaluated the establishment of partnership relations regarding conducting exploration and prospecting works, studying and developing prospective fields within the framework of joint geological programs in the territory of Uzbekistan, and in the future in Azerbaijan, in the directions of cooperation provided for in the memorandum.
A Rock County man who killed his passenger in a crash while driving drunk in 2003 was arrested Saturday night for fourth-offense OWI and injuring an officer, Janesville police said.

At about 8:50 p.m. Sunday, a Janesville officer stopped a vehicle for several moving violations. The driver, Allan Bone, 41, showed signs of impairment and was arrested for operating while intoxicated, Sgt. Drew Severson said in a statement.

Bone resisted officers when they attempted to arrest him, leaving one officer with minor injuries that did not require medical attention, Severson said.

Officers found 28 grams of cocaine when searching Bone, who was taken to the Rock County Jail, where a sample of his blood was taken as evidence, Severson said.

Bone, who is on state supervision for OWI homicide, faces tentative charges of a OWI, a suspected supervision violation, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession with intent to deliver cocaine, and resisting an officer causing injury.

Bone was driving a C&C Concrete Construction truck when he crashed on Halloween in 2003, killing passenger Jason Sharlow, 23, of Janesville, the Beloit Daily News reported.

Bone, who had a blood-alcohol content of 0.21%, was hospitalized for injuries he suffered in the crash, which happened on Highway 14 near South Avalon Road, and was later convicted by a jury of homicide by drunken driving in 2005.

Bone was sentenced to five years in prison and 10 years of extended supervision.

He was convicted of a second OWI in 2006, hit-and-run in 2011 and a third OWI in 2016, after which his supervision was revoked and he was sent back to prison, according to Wisconsin court records.

Photos: Madison's most dangerous intersections, as seen from space No. 10: Packers Avenue and International Lane No. 9: Zeier Road and East Washington Avenue No. 8: South Park Street and West Badger Road No. 7: Thierer Road and East Washington Avenue No. 6: North First Street and East Washington Avenue No. 5: Buckeye Road and South Stoughton Road No. 4: South Baldwin Street and East Washington Avenue No. 3: North Stoughton Road and East Washington Avenue No. 2: Watts Road and South Gammon Road No. 1: Pleasant View Road and Mineral Point
1. Yes. Having a community member interview panel is an excellent opportunity for input.

2. Yes. Its good that the city will allow residents to meet the finalist at a reception.

3. No. The city should have conducted a public survey early in the process, as KISD is doing.

4. No. Residents should be able to meet candidates before a lone finalist is chosen.

5. Unsure. Its hard to know how to gauge the proper level of public involvement.

Vote

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KEARNEY  Stormwater drainage and intersection improvements along First Avenue in downtown Kearney would be undertaken if the city of Kearneys $1.13 million application for a new state grant program is approved.

According to a memo to the Kearney City Council from Assistant City Manager Brenda Jensen, Kearney also is applying for $150,000 so the owners of downtown businesses could apply for assistance on a first-come basis to install fire suppression systems.

The Nebraska Department of Economic Development is administering the grant program. Jensen told the council that funds are available for several different types of projects in what she called Qualified Census Tracts.

There are two QCTs in Kearney, Jensen wrote. One includes the Downtown District and the second includes Pioneer Neighborhood and University Village.

Full-grant applications were due on Feb. 10, and approval by the council is among requirements for the applications to be considered. As a result, the councils endorsement is included among consent agenda items on Tuesdays council meeting agenda.

Jensen said if Kearneys application for $1,130,000 is approved, it would fund improvements for stormwater drainage and intersection enhancements along First Avenue at 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 24th streets.

This project would redesign all four intersections to extend the curbs (sidewalk bumpouts) which would significantly improve pedestrian safety while increasing the stormwater drainage capacity and add stormwater drainage quality components, Jensen told the council in her memo.

Additionally, this project would allow for the installation of stop signs at 21st, 23rd and 24th Streets (so the red flashing lights can be removed), she said.

If Kearney is awarded the $150,000 fire suppression system grant, the city would give property owners within the Downtown District an opportunity to apply for funds to install the service main connecting the public water main to a fire suppression system within a building.

Property owners would be awarded the fire suppression grants on a first-come basis.

This would directly benefit property/business owners and allow the expanded use of several historic buildings, Jensen said.

Tuesdays council meeting is open to the public and begins at 5:30 p.m. in council chambers in City Hall at 18 E. 22nd St.
Laman Ismayilova

The Azerbaijani embassy in Poland has commemorated the Khojaly genocide victims.

Members of the Seimas (Lithuanian Parliament) and the Polish Senate, representatives of the state institutions and the diplomatic corps, public and cultural figures took part in the memorial event organized with the support of the State Committee for Work with Diaspora and NGO Arts Council Azerbaijan, Azernews reports via Arts Council Azerbaijan.

Speaking at the ceremony, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Poland Nargiz Gurbanova first expressed deep condolences to the people of Turkiye and the families of those who died as a result of the devastating earthquake.

Nargiz Gurbanova stressed that the massive human rights violations in ?hojaly reflected in the reports of the international legal organizations and news published in the days following the tragedy show the scale of brutality.

The ambassador drew attention to investigation materials, articles by well-known journalists, who witnessed the consequences of the tragedy, as well as those of Armenians' own confessions.

She pointed out that the European Court of Human Rights ruled on 22 April 2010 that the massacre of Azerbaijani civilians in Khojaly was a particularly grave act that could be assessed as war crimes or crimes against humanity.

Nargiz Gurbanova spoke in detail about Justice for Khojaly campaign, launched by Vice-President of the Foundation Leyla Aliyeva to raise international public awareness of the Khojaly genocide and mentioned states and international organizations that condemned the massacres, qualified them as an act of genocide and a crime against humanity.

Next, the attendees viewed the artist Nazim Mammadov's exhibition Xocal? Haray? (Khojaly Call). The works reflect the massacres of civilians, and the determination and courage of the Azerbaijani people to fight for the territorial integrity of their country.

Head of the Arts Council Azerbaijan, artist Dadash Mammadov said that Nazim Mammadov was a well-known Azerbaijani artist and director who devoted a large collection of paintings to the Khojaly genocide. Back in 2002, more than 40 paintings by Nazim Mammadov were presented to the general public in connection with the 10th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide.

Furthermore, tar player, Honored Artist Sahib Pashazada, and laureate of international competitions, pianist Saida Tagizada performed pieces of music by Azerbaijani and Polish classics.

Books, booklets, and brochures on the Khojaly genocide prepared by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, as well as a book, titled "Xocal? Haray?" in English were presented as part of the commemorative event.
KEARNEY  A Loup City man is heading to trial after allegedly threatening another man with a rifle.

According to court records, Raider Arabie, 22, pleaded not guilty in Buffalo County District Court to use of a firearm to commit a felony, felony terroristic threats, discharging a firearm in the city limits and careless driving. The alleged incident took place Sept. 7 in Kearney.

The one-day jury trial is scheduled to take place May 30 in Buffalo County District Court.

Court records outline charges against him:

Around 7:20 p.m. Sept. 7, a man reported to Kearney police that earlier in the day he was helping Arabie move property from a residence in the 2200 block of Sixth Avenue. The men got into an argument, and Arabie allegedly got a rifle from his pickup and pointed it at the mans torso.

Records say Arabie threatened the man and his family before discharging the firearm into the ground. Arabie then got into his pickup and left the scene.

Arabie was contacted during a traffic stop by police north of Kearney on U.S. Highway 10 later that night and was arrested.
WHITEWATER  Explore the beauty of the world with the Office of Global Experiences Adventures Abroad exhibit from now through March 15 at Robertas Art Gallery.

The gallery is located in the James R. Connor University Center, 190 Hamilton Green Way, Whitewater.

The exhibit consists of photographs taken from around the world by over 13 students who studied abroad. This showcase includes photographs of landscapes and cityscapes sites in France, Costa Rica, Spain, Iceland and Japan.

Adventures Abroad is a continuum of the 10th annual photo exhibit. Nick Jacobus, a political science major with a history minor, studied abroad in Thailand during the fall 2022 semester. Through my experience, I became a more culturally aware person and expanded my worldview beyond my immediate surroundings, said Jacobus.

E Jeninga, an art major with an emphasis in graphic design and a double minor in advertising and special education, traveled to Iceland during May 2022. Iceland was gorgeous, and capturing how my classmates interacted with the new surroundings was captivating, Jeninga said. I loved to catch them staring intently at a glacier or walking through the lava fields.

The Office of Global Experiences at UW-Whitewater offers hundreds of programs in over 50 countries from which to choose.

Studying abroad was the best experience to come from my college career, said Jed Pulley, a computer science major and Japanese studies minor at UW-Whitewater. Being in a completely new place for four months grants a special shift in perspective that most people don't get the privilege of experiencing, and I'm very grateful that I did.

A panel of students and faculty who traveled abroad and whose photographs are on display in the exhibit will be speaking during the exhibit reception on Tuesday, March 7, at 6 p.m. There will be an opportunity for audience questions. Light refreshments will be provided.

Robertas Art Gallery is located on the first floor of the James R. Connor University Center at UW-Whitewater. The gallery collaborates with campus departments, student organizations and community artists in coordinating and sponsoring exhibits. During the semester, gallery hours are Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Friday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gallery is closed Saturday and Sunday.

Robertas Art Gallery prides itself in all exhibits being free and open to the public.

For parking information see the visitor parking website. Attending certain events can earn students class credit. To be featured in Robertas Art Gallery, contact us for a proposal request. Reach us at ucart@uww.edu or 262-472-3193 or visit our website for any questions or inquiries.

Best Resorter covers of 2022 show Lake Geneva area at its best Resorter cover: Jan. 5, 2022 Resorter cover: March 30, 2022 Resorter cover: May 4, 2022 Resorter cover: July 6, 2022 Resorter cover: July 27, 2022 Resorter cover: Aug. 3, 2022 Resorter cover: Aug. 31, 2022 Resorter cover: Sept. 14, 2022 Resorter cover: Nov. 2, 2022 Resorter cover: Dec. 7, 2022
Chinas Global Security Initiative in Context of Denunciations of U.S. Hegemony

Feb. 26, 2023, 2022 (EIRNS)Wang Yis Feb. 18 speech at the Munich Security Conference, the Feb. 20 release by China of a paper on U.S. Hegemony and Its Perils, the Feb. 21 release by China of its Global Security Initiative Concept Paper, the Feb. 24 publication of Chinas Position on the Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis, the 12-point outline for a new peace architecture, and the expected March visit of President Xi Jinping to Moscow, following an expected visit by Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko to Beijingall of these events show a significant change in Chinese involvement on the world stage, and an assertion of sovereignty and self-determination, reports a detailed piece in Moon of Alabama.

Since becoming the worlds most powerful country after the two world wars and the Cold War, the United States has acted more boldly to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, pursue, maintain and abuse hegemony, advance subversion and infiltration, and willfully wage wars, bringing harm to the international community, states the introduction of the Feb. 20 U.S. Hegemony and Its Perils. The United States has developed a hegemonic playbook to stage color revolutions, instigate regional disputes, and even directly launch wars under the guise of promoting democracy, freedom, and human rights. The document says the U.S. has abused export controls and forced unilateral sanctions on others and taken a selective approach to international law and rules ... in the name of upholding a rules-based international order. 

Such direct statements, of the Emperors New Clothes variety, were continued by Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Feb. 23, when responding to a State Department alarm about China-Russia ties:

The U.S. is the number 1 warmonger in the world.... The U.S. accounted for about 80% of all post-World War II armed conflicts. The U.S. is also the number 1 violator of sovereignty and interferer in the internal affairs of other countries. ... Since the end of World War II, the U.S. has sought to subvert more than 50 foreign governments, grossly interfered in elections in at least 30 countries, and attempted assassination on over 50 foreign leaders. The U.S. is also the number 1 source of antagonism and bloc confrontation.

After referring to the conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria that have brought death and poverty to millions of their citizens, Wang concluded his response: As long as U.S. hegemonism and belligerence still exist, the rest of the world will hardly get the peace it deserves.

Wang had another chance to land a hit, when Reuters asked about ostensible U.S. intelligence that China is considering exporting weapons to Russia. Speaking of releasing valuable intelligence, the U.S. could release intelligence on the truth behind the Nord Stream blast. We hope the U.S. will provide a serious and responsible response to the revelations as soon as possible, rather than being evasive about it, Wang concluded his reply.

China is not standing alone. In the UN General Assembly special session vote on a resolution demanding Russian withdrawal from Ukraine, the 7 nations voting no and the 32 abstentionstogether including Russia, China, India, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Ugandaaccount for half the human population.
WEDNESDAY, Feb. 1, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- U.S. health officials are investigating whether a specific brand of over-the-counter eye drops are behind one death and dozens of bacterial infections in several states.

The infections have not been traced to preservative-free EzriCare Artificial Tears, but a majority of people who became ill reported using the drops, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a statement. The agency found the bacteria in bottles of the eye drops, and it is now testing to see if the strain found in the eye drop bottles matches that found in patients.

CDC officials recommended that "patients immediately discontinue the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears until the epidemiological investigation and laboratory analyses are complete."

At least 50 people in 11 states have been infected with the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is resistant to most antibiotics. One of those infected died after the bacterium entered the patient's bloodstream. In 11 cases, people developed eye infections. Three were blinded in one eye. Some of those infected had respiratory or urinary tract infections, NBC News reported. Health officials have not said whether those infected had an underlying eye condition that would have made them more vulnerable to infections.

The eye drops may have been contaminated during manufacturing or as a person with bacteria on their hands opened them. The drops being investigated do not contain preservatives to inhibit the growth of germs, NBC News reported.

Cases were reported in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Texas, Utah, and Washington. EzriCare Artificial Tears have not been recalled at this time. They were sold on Amazon and at stores such as Walmart, NBC News reported.
LEXINGTON  This year marks the 150th Anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Lexington.

To commemorate their one hundred and fifty years of faith and history, a special event has been planned for each month of 2023.

The congregation started its yearlong celebration on Jan. 22 with a Kick Off Luncheon. Attendees heard about First Presbyterian Churchs history, shared cherished memories, some resulting in laughter, and enjoyed a delicious lunch.

The second special event was The Great Presbyterian Birthday Cake Bake-Off Contest.

This fun event was held Feb. 18, in the churchs Fellowship Hall. Twenty bakers entered 16 cakes. Judges interviewed the bakers and taste tested each cake. Audience members voted for their favorite cakes in the following categories: Most Elegant, Most Colorful, Yummiest, Tallest and Most Unique. Once the ballots were submitted, everyone was invited sample the cakes.

The third special event is coming up on Sunday, March 19 when there will be a Church Cookbook Potluck.

Members of the congregation are invited to find a beloved recipe or a new-to-them recipe from one of the numerous church cookbooks and prepare that dish to share at a potluck following worship.

More information about the yearlong celebration can be found on the churchs website, lexpresbyterian.com. The community is welcome to join us for these fun events!

As a long standing member of the PC (USA), First Presbyterian Church, Lexington has been serving the broader community since 1873.

Our congregation exists to worship, serve and praise God. We are people called by God to do His work, recognizing that a true life of prayer and faith requires us to live as we talk, per the First Presbyterian Church website, We endeavor to provide a safe space for all people to come and explore their faith. Emotional, physical and spiritual safety is of paramount importance so that people might be equipped to deepen their relationship with God.
LEXINGTON  The Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce hosted their 2023 Chamber and Ag Banquet on Friday, Feb. 24. It was an evening to reflect and recognize the efforts of individuals, businesses and agriculture for the tireless work they do in the community.

The event was hosted at Kirks Nebraskaland Restaurant.

The event was kicked off with a welcome from Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce (LACC) Executive Director Heather Heinemann.

Tonight, we celebrate the mission of the chamber by recognizing the many great businesses and people that make up our community. We will be honoring those individuals and organizations that go above and beyond to share with others the great story of our community, Heinemann said.

City of Lexington Assistant Manager Dennis Burnside got the awards ceremony started with the Friend of Tourism Award.

It is presented to an individual or tourism entity that has worked hard to promote tourism in the Lexington and Dawson County Area. The 2022 award was presented to Jim and Pat Longly.

This years recipients of the Friends of Tourism award have been lifelong members of the community. Both, born and raised in Lexington, chose to stay and raise their children here as well. They have been involved in many organizations over the years, including 4-H, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, church programs, foster parenting and many other organizations that support Lexington, Burnside said of the Longlys.

Pat is retired from full time teaching, a career that included small country schools as well as the public school system.

Jim has always been the one behind the scenes, building, painting and remodeling. Kids, grandkids and friends all know who to call if something needs to be fixed or you have an idea like maybe a chicken coop but dont quite know how to make it happen.

Burnside said as long as he can remember, Pat had a dream of establishing a childrens museum in the community.

She has championed this dream with fierce determination and unwavering tenacity. She saw the need to create a place where kids can have fun learning outside the classroom, with their parents and other adults by their sides. She had a vision of bringing in new programs each month that encourage creativity and life-long learning, even for the grown-ups, Burnside stated.

That dream has become reality with the Dawson County Childrens Museum. Together this couple acquired a building and then remodeled it to make sure it is a safe, inviting attraction for local families and anyone coming into town, Burnside stated.

Amy Adams, LACC Chamber board member, introduced the winners to the 2022 Presidential Award. It is given to an individual or organization that showed extraordinary leadership within the community during the past year.

The recipients were Al and Angie Copper, founders of HOMES.

This year the recipient of the award is a non-profit organization that started in 2016 as a dream for Al and Angie Copper. They saw a need for an organization that would meet needs that couldnt be met by other assistance organizations. God gave them the name HOMES, which stands for Homeless-Orphans-Mothers-Elderly-Sick, Adams said.

Their vision was to help a wide variety of people, and they have exceeded that goal. They have already served over 1500 people in a variety of capacities. They have provided furniture for families in need, paid utilities for elderly during COVID-19 and bought Christmas gifts for families of head start students, Adams stated.

HOMES has worked with other organizations in town as well, such as providing YMCA memberships to students who showed interest but could not pay, paid for glasses and school supplies for kids in CASA, and filled diaper bags for Sixpence, Adams said.

They also partner with Plum Creek Market and Micahs house to deliver food to fill the blessing boxes around town. HOMES has worked with their local church, Calvary Assembly of God, to provide funds for kids to go to camp and men and women to go to Encounters, said Adams.

HOMES has begun reaching out into the Elwood area and has a location in the community for furniture donations and pickups. Their goal in 2023 is to establish a youth board and help the next generation to see a need in their communities and help address it.

Outgoing LACC board president Elissa Martin presented the 2022 Jim Kelly Memorial Award. This award is given to a person or organization that has worked tirelessly to serve the members of our community and area in one form or another.

The award is named for long-time Lexington resident Mr. Jim Kelly. Mr. Kelly was the publisher of the Lexington Clipper and the Dawson County Herald for 39 years. His greatest passions were his dedication to Lexington and developing the Municipal Airport. He served as a member of the Lexington Airport Authority for 31 years. He also served on the Lexington Business Improvement District in the 1980s and as a member of the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce. Jim was one of the original coordinators of the Lexington Labor Day Extravaganza and helped organize the building of Centennial Park to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the citys name change from Plum Creek to Lexington.

This years recipients were Tod and Michele McKeone.

This year our award recipients are a power couple of Lexington. Since arriving in Lexington in 1989 they have dedicated their lives to service in making Lexington a strong community. They raised their five children in Lexington and have truly made an impact on almost every aspect of our community, Martin said.

When Tod established a law practice and Michele taught science at Lexington High School, the McKeones established roots that would grow deep. Tod has served as President of the Lexington Community Foundation and served as one of the leads in bringing in and establishing a YMCA in our community. Michele always dreams big from convincing the Lexington Board of Education to purchase a movie theater to be run by students to leading the charge to overhaul and renovate the St. Anns Parish Center, stated Martin.

They have always kept the youth of Lexington in the forefront of their service. They want a community that everyone can be proud of and feel that they can belong to as well. They truly love Lexington and continue to make a better place and we are all grateful for their efforts, Martin concluded.

Michele McKeone, in turn, presented the 2022 Business of the Year award to FRAE, Inc.

In 1978 Fagot Refrigeration and Electric, Inc. was started by brothers Mark and Dave. In the beginning, the company specialized in appliance repair and small electrical service work. The two brothers were then joined by their youngest brother, Allen who helped on the electrical side. In 1988, their other brother John also joined them as the office manager. The corporation continues to operate on the same piece of land that was purchased from their parents Paul and Anita, McKeone stated.

Since then, there have been two buildings added to the location. The first building was built in 2001 and still serves as the current location of all the daily operations. The second building was built in 2018 and acts as the warehouse for equipment and inventory, said McKeone.

 In 2020, the company was bought out by Marks two sons, Jake and Mitch. The business is now known and operated under the name of FRAE Inc. FRAE is the abbreviation of the original name of the company started 45 years ago, stated McKeone.

Currently, FRAE employs over 25 employees who make this a great company. Their mission is to continue to serve the community by helping to meet the needs and demands of their services in Dawson County and surrounding areas. They offer a full line of electrical and HVAC services in both residential and commercial service and installation. They continue to grow with our community and take pride in their products and services that they deliver, McKeone concluded.

After an intermission, the banquet shifted over to the agriculture focused awards.

KRVNs Clay Patton presented the 2022 Ag Employee of the Year to Rex Johnson with Titan Machinery.

This years Ag employee of the year had his employer say, we believe this years recipient for the Ag Employee of the Year is well deserved. He is a loyal, honest and hard-working man that is dedicated to his craft. He sets out each day to satisfy his customers and his fellow co-workers, Patton said.

Rex Johnson started his career as a service technician right out of Tech School with Fairbanks International on June 9, 1980. He started his journey as Service Technician, became a Service Manager for several years, but eventually wanted to go back to doing what he always loved to do and that is servicing and repairing farm equipment, Patton stated.

Rex has been our number one Road Technician for the past 20-25 plus years. He enjoys working with customers, co-workers, young and old, to solve equipment problems. He likes challenges and finding the solutions that have some scratching their heads, Titan Machinery noted.

Rex is a dedicated employee, co-worker, and family man. Rex, your co-workers would like to say thank you for all you have done to help them with their craft and we are so excited to be able to honor you with the 2022 Ag Employee of the Year, Patton concluded.

The next award Patton introduced was the 2022 Agri-Service Award. It is presented to a business or individual for outstanding effort and commitment to agriculture and the Lexington community.

This years award was presented to Overton Veterinary Services (OVS).

OVS is a six doctor Veterinary Clinic that currently serves cow/calf, feedlot, small animal, and equine clients in the Central Nebraska region since 1964. OVS believes that the best way to serve the ag community is by putting the health and well-being of the animal at the top of the priority list. We offer services, data, and products to ag producers who do just that, Patton said.

Whether it is prevention, treatment, feeding management, inventory management, or cattle processing, OVS is committed to offering cattle-centric solutions that allow cattle producers to perform at their peak. In 2022, OVS helped area producers process over 203,000 head of cattle. OVS is committed to getting the best of every animal to help our producers today to feed the world tomorrow, Patton concluded.

The 2022 Farm Family Award was present to Rick and Stephanie Buell.

Growing up on a dryland farm in Frontier County tonights honoree never expected he would be growing irrigated crops in the Platte Valley, but 48 years after harvesting his first dryland milo crop, Rick Buell and his family are reaping the benefits of center pivot and gravity irrigation while living the good life on the south side of the Platte River, wrote Barb Batie of the farm family.

After the presentation of the award, Rick stated, I was very surprised to receive this award, because if you know me, Id rather talk agri-business or hunting, rather than personal accomplishments. So, Id also like to take this opportunity to celebrate the agriculture community in Lexington.

In fact, Rick quipped, Id like to thank the chamber for its vision in returning the Farm Family Award to the south side, Referring to the tongue-in-cheek rivalry between farmers on the north and south sides of the Platte River. Because as you know, everything is better on the south side, Rick said with a grin.

Id also like to thank all the neighbors on the north and south side who welcomed us to the area, gave us advice, rented out land and gave us a chance to succeed, Rick said.

As many of you probably know, I didnt grow up here. I am a fourth generation farmer. It all started with George Buells homestead and then the family farm outside of the village of Eustis, about 30 miles southwest of Lexington, stated Rick.

I credit much of my success to my wonderful family. Stephanie joined my agriculture team in 1981 as a banker, moonlighting as a nurse. She has been an ag banker for 42 years, currently serving as the Senior Vice President at Pinnacle Bank, Rick said.

In 1988, Katelin joined the family. Shed spend her summers with me riding through the fields, irrigation corn, in her own pair of green irrigating boots on her feet. Those boots would provide her the perfect fodder for her Northwestern and GW law school essays. She is now an attorney for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in Chicago, Rick said of his daughter.

Looking back, at age 11, I never envisioned that Id be a property owner and managing a farm operation of this scale. I am grateful to all those who have helped me make it happen. I am honored to receive this award as a member of the Lexington ag community, Rick concluded.

The last award of the evening, the Past President Award, was presented to Elissa Martin by Amy Adams.

Martin quipped that all she had to do was show up for the meetings and thanked Heinemann for her time and effort in making the chamber successful.

Heinemann concluded the banquet by thanking all the Clay Paton and Don and Barb Batie, as well as, the sponsors and all those who attended.
Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall has hosted a concert timed to the 31st anniversary of the Khojaly genocide.

According to Azernews, the memory of the victims of the Khojaly genocide was honored with a minute of silence.

As part of the concert, Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra and the State Choir Chapel performed works by Azerbaijani composers under the baton of conductor Mustafa Mehmandarov.

Their heart touching performance left a deep impression on the listeners. The musicians and soloists of the choir fully conveyed the depth of the musical works.

In 1992, the town of Khojaly came under intense fire from the towns of Khankandi and Askaran already occupied by the Armenian armed forces.

Some 613 civilians, mostly women, and children were killed in the massacre, and a total of 1,000 people were disabled.

Eight families were exterminated, 25 children lost both parents, and 130 children lost one parent.

Moreover, 1,275 innocent people were taken hostage, and the fate of 150 of them remains unknown.




Most of what she knew, she learned from the wild.

Delia Owens bestselling novel Where the Crawdads Sing continues: Nature had nurtured, tutored, and protected her when no one else would.

Conservationist Aldo Leopold undoubtedly felt similarly. Nature not only nurtured, tutored, and protected him, but he, in turn, reciprocated that all back into the Wisconsin landscapes he loved.

The Aldo Leopold Foundations Leopold Week, taking place Friday through March 12, will be an inspirational speaker series designed to enhance participants connection to nature and the conservation community.

The virtual series, titled Nurturing Reciprocity, will include keynote speakers Owens, the zoologist turned novelist with Where the Crawdads Sing; Robin Wall Kimmerer, a Potawatomi professor and author of the award-winning Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants; and poet Kim Blaeser, journalist James Edward Mills, writer Scott Russell Sanders and others.

I first read A Sand County Almanac when I was a young college student and Aldo Leopolds words inspired me to become a wildlife biologist, Owens said in a statement. After many years in the wilderness, Leopolds words still spoke to me and compelled me to write Where the Crawdads Sing in the hopes that others would commit to loving and conserving wild things in wild places.

Registration for the online events is free at www.aldoleopold.org/news-events/leopold-week/leopold-week-2023-nurturing-reciprocity.

The power of Leopold Week is that it reinforces this connection between past, present, and future, said Buddy Huffaker, executive director of the Aldo Leopold Foundation, because it builds on the Leopold legacy, but also uses contemporary authors, thinkers, and doers to assess our current situation, and provides space for us to collectively imagine a better future.

Huffaker kicks off Leopold Week at 10 a.m. Friday. It will feature Blaesers poetry. The Native American poet was the Wisconsin Poet Laureate from 2015 to 2016. Huffaker will do an overview of the weeks events.

Focusing on nurturing reciprocity, Huffaker said, asks us to reflect and appreciate just how much we receive from the natural world and then step into our roles in protecting and restoring our communities, both human and natural.

At noon March 7 will be a talk on Creating an Inclusive Outdoors Together with Mills. He will share his work with the Joy Trip Project, an ongoing initiative exploring how we can all live in balance with the natural world and each other.

Also on March 7, at 7 p.m., Sanders will pose the question, How would Leopolds land ethic apply to our planet as a whole? Might we be able to replicate the good we are doing in our own backyards to the world at large?

On March 8, the Aldo Leopold Foundation will be in conversation with Owens. Writing Wild: Where the Crawdads Sing and A Sand County Almanac will feature discussion about how to share the love of nature through writing.

I am so grateful for my connection to the Leopold Foundation, an honor I would never have imagined as that young college student so many years ago, Owens said.

The lecture I Must Return the Gift: Reciprocal Restoration at 7 pm March 9 will feature Kimmerer. She will explore the importance of healing damage we inflict upon the land.

The Leopold Week speaker series concludes at noon March 10 with Learning to Live a Land Ethic. It will feature four 2022-2023 Leopold Fellows discussing how theyre developing their own land ethic.

The remainder of Leopold Week is being celebrated across the country. For further details, visit www.aldoleopold.org/news-events/community-events.

Aldo Leopolds emphasis on community reminds us that we are all in this together, Huffaker said.

Us all  people and the pines outside, our neighbors and the nuthatches now nesting, the crowds and the crawdads.
Janet Protasiewicz has a major early spending lead over Dan Kelly in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, according to media tracking firm Medium Buying.

By early Monday afternoon, liberals had reserved over $7 million in ads between the primary and April 4 general election to boost Protasiewiczs Wisconsin Supreme Court bid.

Between the primary and Monday, conservatives hadnt run television ads to boost Kelly. But Fair Courts America, a group funded by GOP donor Richard Uihlein, committed to spending $866,000 on ads on Monday, according to Medium Buying.

Conservatives will almost certainly spend millions more to support Kelly, a former state Supreme Court justice. But at this point, Protasiewicz has more than a 7-to-1 ad spending advantage over Kelly in the general election.

The Protasiewicz (pronounced pro-tuh-SAY-witz) campaign committed to spending $6.5 million in ads, a spokesperson said, and A Better Wisconsin Together Political Fund committed to more than $500,000, according to Medium Buying.

Conservatives already have more work to do than liberals to unify their partisan camp, UW-Madison political science professor Barry Burden said, citing the scrappy primary dynamic between Kelly and fellow conservative Waukesha County Circuit Judge Jennifer Dorow.

Combined with the ongoing need to unify, being behind the eight ball on spending compared to Protasiewicz just puts them at a deeper disadvantage, and that has to be rectified pretty quickly if theyre going to be competitive, Burden said.

One of Protasiewiczs first ads in the general election, which began running on Wednesday, highlights anti-abortion groups support for Kelly. The other seeks to paint Kelly as soft on crime, saying he defended child sex predators in court.

Calling video advertising the most effective method of reaching potential voters, Burden said, Protasiewicz and her allies are at the moment able to define Dan Kelly in ways that are advantageous to them and disadvantageous to him.

The early ad spending disparity reflects that of last years U.S. Senate race, where supporters of U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Oshkosh, outspent those backing Democrat Mandela Barnes by $3.75 million in a four-week period in September. That doesnt include another $3 million coordinated between Johnsons campaign and a national group.

That spending disparity early in the general election phase was a key factor in Barnes loss because it gave conservatives time to define their opponent with hardly any pushback, Republicans and Democrats both have said. At this point, the tables between the partisan camps have turned, with the liberal Wisconsin Supreme Court contender spending far more than the conservative.

There is a parallel in that there was an imbalance during a key moment in the campaign where voters who hadnt been active in the primary were learning about the candidates, Burden said about the U.S. Senate race. And the advertising really created an image of one that was unfavorable, and he took a while to dig out from that.
WASHINGTON  State agriculture officials from across the country sought this month to remind a new crop of lawmakers in Congress of their states needs for a robust farm bill to address a host of food issues.

Members of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture gathered in Washington for their annual winter meeting in mid-February. They urged Congress to provide a timely, fully funded farm bill to address a wide range of issues affecting agriculture, including technology, conservation and foreign trade.

Throughout its two-day conference, members of the coalition stressed the bipartisan history of the bill and the importance of educating a new Congress on titles that support American food systems amid changing economic and environmental landscapes.

The state officials urged Congress to include nutrition programs in the farm bill, as past versions have done. They also advocated for bolstering crop insurance and allocating more money to research, animal safety, and conservation programs.

Its just a responsibility we have to make sure that all of our producers, our economies, our communities of every size have a forward-looking and fully funded farm bill, NASDA president Doug Miyamoto, the director of the Wyoming Department of Agriculture, said in an interview.

Miyamoto was appointed to his state post by Republican former Gov. Matt Mead in 2015.

Weve got to make sure that we do this correctly, he added. We cant start splintering off programs and splintering off ideas in the farm bill, and then hoping that were going to be able to get a comprehensive farm bill thats on time.

Mike Naig, secretary of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and an elected Republican, said its important for lawmakers  especially those who werent in office when the 2018 bill was written  to remember that the measure is not just a farm bill, but a farm-and-food bill.

Theres a lot of new members of Congress that have never had a chance to vote on a farm bill, Naig said. A lot of work has to be done to educate folks on that.

Kate Greenberg, the commissioner of the Colorado Department of Agriculture who was appointed by Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, also advocated for considering nutrition and agricultural policy in the same bill to keep the critical nexus point of production and consumers.

She added members of Congress must put aside their differences to strengthen the bread and butter of the American economy.

Lets keep our heads down and focus on the impact of the policy and the appropriations on the American landscape in agriculture, she said.

The five-year farm bill does not appropriate funding, which Congress does annually in separate bills. But it does authorize dollar amounts for discretionary programs that set expectations for actual spending bills. Other programs authorize mandatory funding not subject to annual decisions by lawmakers.

Lloyd Knight, deputy director of the Idaho State Department of Agriculture, encouraged Congress to provide certainty to farmers across the country by finishing the farm bill before the current authorizations expire Sept. 30.

Securing new technology, foreign markets, and the safety net

Mike Strain, the Republican commissioner of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, advocated for increasing funding for research and development of technology, especially as demand continues to outpace supply for U.S. agricultural goods.

Louisiana sugar production, for example, needs to be twice as efficient as it is today, he said.

Jeff Witte, director of the New Mexico Department of Agriculture, said research provisions would also be key for Western specialty crop farmers who need to address worker shortages.

The thing about climate change is that were all impacted, and our farmers and ranchers are on the frontlines.

 Kate Greenberg, commissioner of the Colorado Department of Agriculture

Farmers in the state have converted from vegetable crops to tree nuts because the labor was cheaper, he said. But that trend could lead to an unwanted imbalance in what food crops are available to consumers, he added.

If we dont start investing in technology that can do the harvesting of other produce crops, were going to get way too far behind, he said.

Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industry Commissioner Rick Pate, a Republican, said developing foreign markets through the Foreign Agricultural Service should be a priority in the bill.

U.S. Under Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor said in a February 1 Senate hearing that for every dollar the U.S. invests in developing foreign markets, U.S. farmers see a $24 return in the value of their products.

They think theres a huge return on what travel we can do and the marketing program that they find through our organization, Pate said. So we just need to continue to take the farmer story to people.

Naig added the new farm bill needs to modernize and reinforce the federal crop safety net.

I just dont want to see anything undermine the importance of the crop insurance program, he said.

Building conservation and food safety programs

Naig said farmers had broad interest in market-based environmental incentives in the coming farm bill. Concepts like soil health and carbon sequestration have entered the mainstream of agribusiness, but farmers are still wary about their costs.

What has to be acknowledged is that theres costs associated with implementing some of these practices, Naig said. So if you want to see significant adoption, how do you help them achieve a return on that investment? If you do that well and do that correctly, you will get implementation at a scale that you couldnt otherwise.

Jordan Seger, deputy director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, said he hopes to see federal encouragement of public-private conservation partnerships. He touted Indianas work with the Nature Conservancy and Enterprise Rent-a-Car to regrow wetlands and forests in the state.

With about one dollar, we can get about seven or more dollars from the federal government, put that all toward private lands, and leverage each others resources and expertise to get things done quickly, Seger said.

Randy Romanski, who was appointed secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, said Congress should use the farm bill to get a better handle on animal health, noting outbreaks of avian influenza that have plagued the country since 2015.

Congress could create a national warning network for emerging animal diseases, like avian flu and African swine fever, he said.

Clearly, this is something that crosses state boundaries, Romanski said. We need to have systems in place to track, respond to and eradicate diseases when they show up.

Setting terms for state and federal collaboration

The coalition members said Congress should offer clear guidance and resources so states can make choices that suit their constituents.

The federal government should avoid placing mandates on conservation practices, Seger said. Increased collaboration between USDA agencies would also reduce paperwork for states, he added.

Knight, of Idaho, added that Congress must ensure federal programs are fully staffed. Clear guidelines on implementation that are flexible enough to accommodate the diverse needs of farmers throughout the country would also be key, he said.

Its a big country with a lot of issues and a lot of resources, Knight said.

Colorados Greenberg said the bill also presents an opportunity to reinforce climate-related policies.

The thing about climate change is that were all impacted, and our farmers and ranchers are on the frontlines, Greenberg said. Theyre the ones who are feeling and experiencing the changes in the environment, and they know it. So how do we address that, not just state-by-state, but as a nation?

Timeline in question

Members of the group predicted Congress would finish either by its fall 2023 deadline or next year.

Strain said he believed negotiations would likely bleed into 2024.

Regardless of the timeline, the bill must be funded appropriately, without an overemphasis on the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Offices score, Strain said.

You know, it always runs over, or we get to the threat of having to revert to the previous farm bill, he said. But the other thing is that when we pass it, we cant pass it in such a manner as to just try to get a low CBO score.

Others in the state agriculture delegation expressed cautious optimism over the prospects of a farm bill in 2023, noting that there would be consequences for U.S. farmers if a new bill is not passed on time.

Im really encouraged by what (U.S. House Speaker) Kevin McCarthy said this week, that theyre going to get it done, Pate said. People need to understand the impact of that kind of stuff. Just like a government shutdown, these things have consequences when they dont get them done.
With his live, exotic insect and arachnid collection, University of Idaho Extension educator Jason Thomas has taught thousands of Idaho children that theres nothing necessarily creepy about a cockroach, terrifying about a tarantula or repulsive about a roly-poly.

Fewer than 3% of insects and spiders are considered pests, though most people lump them all together in the creepy-crawly category. Thomas, of Minidoka County, reasons improving perceptions about these misunderstood arthropods is the best path toward preventing the needless spraying of creatures that appear menacing but are harmless, or even beneficial.

Hes developed a hands-on program thats brought upwards of 80 different insect and spider species to 4-H group functions, community events and classrooms, enabling the public to handle live specimens and overcome fears.

Its a very rewarding experience because we will have some people who are scared to death of spiders and by the end of them getting to hold all of these different things they are fascinated and interested, and they keep asking to hold the spiders again, Thomas said.

Thomas has also provided training and specimens to Extension educators who have launched smaller satellite programs in Jefferson, Clark, Caribou, Bear Lake, Teton and Blaine counties.

Heading forward, Thomas will prioritize training teachers and leaders of organizations within his community who would like to borrow and showcase these organisms to learners.

You want things that are big, exotic and different-looking, Thomas said.

Thomas has been providing opportunities for people  especially youth  to handle and interact with bugs since he first joined UI Extension in January 2018. His early hands-on lessons featured hissing cockroaches and giant prickly stick insects, which he obtained through U of Is William F. Barr Entomological Museum.

Initially, I was working with 4-H youth in the county. Wed always take bugs to the county fair and have a booth, Thomas said, adding younger children are most receptive to handling insects and spiders. And then I started getting calls from public schools in Minidoka County. Then I was getting calls from homeschool groups.

In September 2021, Thomas received an American Rescue Plan Act grant through to support his 4-H efforts, which he combined with county funding to significantly grow the program. With the funding, he significantly expanded his collection by reaching out to arthropod breeders who sell online and visiting exotic pet stores.

Giant prickly stick insects, giant African millipedes, blue feigning death beetles, pink-toe tarantulas, giant vinegaroons, wide-horn hissing roaches and dairy cow isopods have been among his greatest attractions. The exoskeletons of the ironclad beetles in his collection are structural marvels, capable of withstanding being run over by a small car.

The grant enabled Thomas to hire high school students and others to assist in caring for the creatures and taking them out to classrooms. Cleaning cages and feeding and watering the insects and spiders required a time investment of up to eight hours per week at the height of the collection.

Thomas has also taken specimens from his collection to events and classrooms in surrounding counties, including a Bug Day event in Boise attended by more than 3,000 participants. He hosted in-service trainings for Extension educators starting their own smaller collections.

Joseph Sagers, a UI Extension educator in Jefferson County, takes the insect and spider collection Thomas helped him start to area schools and 4-H day camps.

A lot of times you can do presentations to some kids and it just goes over their head, but most kids remember that day a tarantula walked over their hand, Sagers said.

Thomas breeds thousands of mealworms and cockroaches to feed his numerous predatory insects and spiders. Under his supervision or the supervision of a trained helper, Thomas allows participants to handle the more docile creatures. He also has some insects and spiders that arent safe to handle, such as black widows and burgundy Goliath birdeater tarantulas, which are kept inside of cages while participants view them.

Another purpose is to get kids excited about science and STEM, and its a great thing to study, Thomas said.

From September 2021 to August 2022, his program reached 8,107 youth about insects and spiders. He also educated 1,977 adults about insects during that year. During the recent Idaho Potato Conference in Pocatello, Thomas shared his insect collection with adult farmworkers attending sessions offered in Spanish. He hopes the experience will lead them to make more informed decisions about when to apply pesticides.

Now that the grant has ended, Thomas no longer has access to program staff. Hes scaled back his collection to where it takes him no more than an hour per week to care for all of his insects and spiders.

Were continuing it, just not at the pace we were before, Thomas said.

Those interested in learning more about using insects, spiders or other arthropods for education can contact Thomas at jasont@uidaho.edu.
The New College Institute (NCI) had applied for $175,000 in state funding to begin a new lab school, but earlier this month the Department of Education (DOE) turned them down.

In January, Gov. Glenn Youngkin joined with colleges and universities across the state in a partnership agreement to create K-12 lab schools.

Lab schools are K-12 schools established by postsecondary institutions to provide students an innovative, high-quality education experience, according to the DOE. Youngkin calls them the future of education.

Education is the gateway to opportunity. An educated Virginian has a limitless future and we are about creating future opportunities for every young Virginian, Youngkin said when he announced plans for the program just over a year ago.

An application process was established so that institutions interested in starting a lab school could submit requests for funding and $5 million was set aside to help those approved with their school design proposals. In order to be considered for a deeper pocket of $95 million in operating costs, an institutions initial application must pass.

But in a letter dated Feb. 9 from Assistant State Superintendent of Public Education Elizabeth Schultz to NCI Coordinator of K-12 Programs and Institutional Data Dr. Susheela Shanta, the application from NCI was turned down.

At this time, the Committee has reviewed and scored NCIs application. Based upon the information provided in the Planning Grant Application, a Planning Grant award is not able to be made at this time, the letter states.

Schultz admitted in the letter that NCI clearly has turnkey facilities at the ready and the community need for additional educational opportunities is expressed, but the request for funding did not make clear the goal or focus of the proposed lab school, lacked documentation of partnerships mentioned, failed to provide evidence of engaged stakeholders, lacked evidence and clarity in its stated program description goal and timeline, and failed to provide evidence of how students for the new lab school will be recruited.

NCI may revisit and resubmit its Planning Grant Application at a later date, the letter stated, but did not make clear how much time may be required to have elapsed before a second attempt may be made.

But on Friday, NCI Interim Director Christina Reed told the Bulletin the decision to apply another time has not been made.

NCI is continuing its planning efforts for a lab school as detailed in the Governors initiative, Reed said by email. It is unclear if a resubmission of a planning grant application will occur at this time.

Guidelines for the application process were approved by the DOEs nine-member board and right-away NCI was listed as one of 20 colleges and universities, 12 community colleges and four higher education centers that expressed interest in participating.

With $100 million already committed to the program, the DOE has already said they anticipated requests for the funding to be competitive and any of the money left unused by 2024 must be returned to the states general fund.
It was just a fracture.

But within a day, that fracture gave way under the weight of an 104-car freight train pulling hundreds of thousands of gallons of oil.

The track buckled, the wheels came loose and, within minutes, 17 of the trains cars lay in the James River.

Shortly after, several cars exploded, lighting the river on fire. Had the cars not rolled into the river, the blast could have caught much of Lynchburg.

Instead, the freight cars lurched 30,000 gallons of crude oil into the James, which flows downstream to Richmond.

We could have had a mass casualty event, said Danny Williams, battalion chief of the Lynchburg Fire Department. God was on our side that day.

That was April 30, 2014.

But just weeks ago on Feb. 3, another derailed train, this time in East Palestine, Ohio, became the focal point of a national conversation around train safety as hazardous chemicals seeped into the air, water and soil.

Virginia has seen more than 200 derailments of passenger and freight trains, including on tracks that run straight through some of its busiest cities.

Few rise to the magnitude of the Lynchburg oil spill  a $1.2 million cleanup.

But the data suggests that the close calls happen more often than one might think: In the past three years alone, 21 cars carrying hazmat material were derailed or damaged, according to Federal Railway Administration data.

Only one incident resulted in hazmat chemicals being released from the train: a 2020 derailment of a Norfolk Southern train in the heart of downtown Roanoke.

In summer 2021, another CSX train with 52 hazmat material-carrying cars derailed in Richmond, on a track just yards behind the tomb of President James Monroe and along the James River. Eighteen cars jumped the tracks, according to a report from the FRA. CSX is the same company responsible for the train that derailed in Lynchburg.

Several other hazmat-laden trains derailed in Henrico County in 2017. And a Norfolk Southern train derailed in the woods outside Petersburg in 2018, dumping 1,100 gallons of glutaraldehyde, a sterilizing chemical harmful to humans.

Norfolk Southern is the train company involved in this months incident in East Palestine in which 38 railcars derailed, including 11 carrying hazardous materials that later ignited. A one-mile evacuation zone was set up around the site along the Pennsylvania-Ohio border.

The full environmental impact is still being gauged. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources estimates contaminants killed nearly 44,000 fish in waterways.

A preliminary National Transportation Safety Board report found that crew members had no indication the train was in trouble until an alarm indicating an overheated axle sounded just before it went off the tracks.

In response to the NTSB report, Norfolk Southern said it would need to learn as much as we can from this event and develop practices and invest in technologies that could help prevent an incident like this in the future.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who visited the derailment site on Thursday, warned Norfolk Southern to come through on its promises to clean up the site, and said he would hold them accountable and the other railroad companies accountable for their safety record.

Trains seen as crucial economic tool

When derailments like these occur, a swarm of agencies descend upon the scene. Locally, one of those is Virginias Department of Emergency Management. Tom Jordan, chief of the departments Hazards Branch, said derailments are often minor issues.

Most are simple situations quickly handled by the affected railroad and their on-call response contractors, Jordan said.

State officials have labeled Virginia a train-loving state that can welcome the world through ports in Hampton Roads, and then send goods on their way across the country by rail.

Officials also view locomotives as a sustainable solution to pandemic-related logistics problems, like trucker shortages and backed-up ports.

Last December, one of the state agencies in charge of Virginias rails pitched a four-year plan to lay down more track, both for freight and passenger trains. The plan also says companies like CSX invest millions in keeping the track safe.

But there has been less action toward regulating the railroads. By and large, cleanups are left to the federal agencies, who have more enforcement muscle, and to the railroads themselves, who use their own cleanup crews in the aftermath of a spill.

This session, Newport News Democrat Del. Shelly Simonds pitched a bill with a number of safety regulations, including one that would cap the length of train cars. Longer train cars derail more easily.

They are transporting dangerous and toxic chemicals on the rails, going through our towns and our cities every day. They must stop fighting us when it comes to safety, Simonds said.

However, the bill failed along party lines, in spite of testimony from a rail union and an organization that represents firefighters.

At any given moment

In Virginia, a number of train tracks run through main cities  Roanoke, Richmond and Lynchburg, to name a few. In Richmond, Main Street Station looms over Shockoe Bottom, where a derailing incident could have significant consequences for the citys downtown.

And several rail lines run along the James River, raising environmental concerns. In 2014, the Environmental Protection Agency worried that oil from the Lynchburg fire would run downstream to Richmond. A later report by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality said the threat to Richmonds water was minimal.

In a statement, a representative for CSX said the hazmat derailment rate has declined 55% since 2012, and that less than 1% of accidents result in a hazmat release.

CSX invests heavily in railroad infrastructure maintenance, which is essential to reaching our goal of zero accidents and injuries and ensuring the continued reliability of the freight rail service that is important to the economy, said Sheriee Bowman, a spokesperson for the company. While no accident is acceptable, CSX has led the industry with the fewest FRA reportable train accidents and the lowest average FRA reportable injury rate since 2019.

Later, a report from the NTSB found that the 2014 derailment was preventable. NTSB inspectors found that the company had known about the fracture a day prior, but had not scheduled a repair for several more days, which was within their guidelines, the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported in 2016.

Williams believes these companies do the best they can. But he still worries when he sees tank cars snaking into the city. The image of the plume of fire on the river is seared into his memory.

Its something that can happen at any time, at any given moment, Williams said.

* Correction: A previous version of this article stated that a derailment in 2020 was owned by CSX. That was incorrect, the train was owned by Norfolk Southern. The article has been updated to reflect that.
In North Carolina, 2023 is officially the Year of the Trail. And here in McDowell, a long list of events are planned for this year to commemorate and celebrate our mountain trails.

The McDowell Trails Association has planned a series of hikes between March and December of this year. You can celebrate the Year of the Trail with monthly hikes sponsored by the MTA on local trails and greenways in McDowell County and around the region, according to a news release.

The first one will take place Saturday, March 4 on the Point Lookout Trail, one of McDowells most popular mountain pathways.

You can join the MTA for a moderate walk from the Old Fort Point Lookout Trailhead to Point Lookout itself. There will be an optional extension to the walk to see some of the railroad tunnels between Old Fort and Ridgecrest.

Hikers will meet at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 4 at the Old Fort Point Lookout Trailhead at the end of Old Highway 70, approximately three miles west of Old Fort.

Here are the Google directions: https://goo.gl/maps/rWfEvJtYYbQTpVzVA

The walk up to Point Lookout is a five-mile roundtrip hike with a road-grade climb of around 700 feet. You should bring water and snacks and wear comfortable shoes for a paved trail.

MTA President Steve Pierce will be the leader of the hike, according to the news release. To participate, you should email Pierce at stevepierce50@gmail.com no later than Thursday, March 2.

Participants will register before the hike and agree to signing a waiver.

Other scheduled hikes for the Year of the Trail are:

Saturday, April 1  Fonta Flora State Trail at Lake James State Park

Saturday, May 6  Old Fort Gateway Trail System

Saturday, June 3  Trains and Trails Festival Hikes in Old Fort

Saturday, July 8  The Mountains to the Sea Trail in McDowell County

Saturday, Aug. 5  Blue Ridge Pinnacle the highest point in McDowell County

Saturday, Sept. 9  Catawba Falls

Saturday, Oct. 21  McDowell Moves event hike

Saturday, Nov. 4  Rostan and Copper Ridge trails

Saturday, Dec. 2  Downtown Marion and the Peavine Trail

More details for each hike will be sent out two weeks before it is held. For more information, visit the website www.mcdowelltrails.org or send an email to mtatrails@gmail.com.
Lawyers and experts have unveiled the methodological and scientific shortcomings of approaches adopted by Citizen Lab, Amnesty International, and Forbidden Stories regarding the alleged use of Pegasus software by some countries.

North American lawyers specializing in handling cybersecurity cases highlighted, Saturday in Tangier, the legal inadmissibility of the pseudo-evidence contained in reports by these organizations on the use of Pegasus software.

This came at hearings organized by Moroccos Personal Data Protection Committee (CNDP) with the participation of scores of national and international technical experts who presented and shared their analyses and conclusions, based on rational methodologies and proven facts.

The American lawyer at the New York bar, Tor Ekeland, explained that the so-called evidence provided by these organizations was inadmissible by a US federal court because it was based on junk science.

The first thing a US court does in reviewing scientific evidence is to see if that evidence meets the principle of reproducibility, he said. However, he noted, the Citizen Lab results are not reproducible in any way, which is in itself a red flag.

Moreover, he added, the first thing I noticed in this case is the particularly vague and ambiguous nature of the conclusions of Amnesty International ()

The report of these organizations merely cites traces of an alleged Pegasus presence, without giving any explanation as what these traces mean, Ekeland noted.

What Amnesty and Citizen Lab are doing is, in my opinion, very dangerous, because they are promoting a kind of junk science and making accusations that they cant back up (), he said.

New York-based Canadian lawyer Michael Hassard, who also specializes in computer science, explained that when scientific evidence is submitted for analysis, it can often be subject to confirmation bias.

When fingerprints were first used in forensics, they were subject to this confirmation bias, and the same thing happened with hair analysis, dental records and even DNA analysis, he recalled.

In this regard, he cited the book dealing with this issue and published by the lawyer of the American organization The Innocence Project, Chris Fabricant, entitled Junk Science and the American Criminal Justice System.

Scientific methods of analyzing evidence in cybersecurity and computer science are relatively new and far from foolproof, Hassard stressed.

The two lawyers concluded that it is important to establish ethical standards when it comes to methodologies in such cases.

US Computer Scientist Jonathan Scott on his part affirmed that Morocco is beyond reproach in the Pegasus case.

Scott underlined the methodological and scientific shortcomings in approaches by Citizen Lab, Amnesty International, and Forbidden Stories, which led them to adopt incorrect results.

He explained that analyzing an iCloud backup from the alleged victims phone is insufficient evidence to determine the existence of malware, and that only a complete examination of the physical phone can lead to the detection of a spyware.

The U.S. expert revealed the futility of MVT utilized by Citizen Lab to accuse Morocco of using Pegasus.

When Amnesty International discovered the MVT fault, it simply removed the expression false positives from its reports without informing the public, Scott said, adding that he has the original, unmodified version.

He said that Morocco is being accused of serious acts and is being denied the ability to defend itself, notably the ability to examine the evidence.

In the same vein, Head of CNDP Omar Seghrouchni said that the Pegasus accusations are based on erroneous technical assessments and premature assumptions in an attempt to accuse specific countries.
The former president of the parliament of Sao Tome, Delfim Neves, exonerated in the case of the assault on the military barracks, last Saturday repudiated claims of the Prime Minister that he had benefited from justice, saying there was a thorough investigation and found nothing that would incriminate him.

The statements of the head of the Sao Tomean government, Patrice Trovoada, are unreasonable and to some extent defamatory, because Delfim Neves did not benefit from anything, the former president of the National Assembly of Sao Tome and Principe (2018-2022) told media.

Its in the records, the Public Prosecutors Office and the Judicial Police searched for Delfim Neves life. In all the documents they seized in the search they conducted of my residence, vehicles, and offices, they found nothing that could indicate my involvement in this case. They also went to bank accounts, including with a rogatory letter sent to Portuguese banking institutions, he commented.

After this thorough investigation, which was Patrice Trovoadas wish, the Public Prosecutors Office analyzed it together with the Judiciary Police, both national and Portuguese, and they concluded that the case should be closed as far as my part is concerned. He cannot in any way speak of me having benefited, emphasized Delfim Neves.

Patrice Trovoada considered, this Friday, that the rigor of the judicial system benefited Delfim Neves in the case of the assault on the Armed Forces barracks, which occurred last November, in which he was a defendant.

Delfim Neves, as all the people of Sao Tome, must recognize that Justice is independent, that there is no meddling by the Government in matters of justice and that the rigor of the Law, in such a serious case, has meant that some allegations have not had the quality required to go to trial, which allows, in the case of Delfim Neves, that he has benefited from the dismissal, said the Prime Minister.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of his participation in a conference in Lisbon, the Prime Minister added: The evidence is there and we cannot refute it. Unfortunately, four important witnesses died, and we have to conform and respect Justice, and thats the way things are, and thats good, so we are all grateful that the justice system in Sao Tome and Principe, and the Public Prosecution Service, have given guarantees to everyone, and when there is a doubt, it is normal that the defendant benefits from the doubt.

Patrice Trovoada was reacting in this way to the indictment of ten defendants, by the Public Ministry (MP), on Thursday, about the assault on the military barracks, last November 25, in which four people died in military custody. In the same decision, the MP filed, for lack of evidence against the initial suspicions, the case regarding seven defendants, including Delfim Neves.

The former president of the National Assembly was arrested by the military in the early hours of that day, after having been allegedly identified as financier of the attack, and was later indicted.
Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijani artist Rovshan Guliyev has presented his art works in Tallinn, Estonia.

His personal exhibition was timed to the 31st anniversary of the Khojaly genocide, Azernews reports.

The Khojaly massacre was the mass killing of Azerbaijani civilians by Armenian forces and the 366th CIS regiment in the town of Khojaly on 26 February 1992.

As a result, 613 civilians, mostly women and children, were killed in the massacre, and 1,000 people were disabled.

Eight families were exterminated, 25 children lost both parents, and 130 children lost one parent.

Some 1,275 innocent people were taken hostage, and the fate of 150 of them remains unknown.

Apart from the exhibition, video materials about the Khojaly tragedy were shown on the big screen for 24 hours on the central streets of Tallinn. The exhibition attracted a huge amount of interested visitors.

Noting that, Rovshan Guliyev graduated from the Estonian Academy of Arts in Tallinn.

Through his art, Guliyev has been promoting Azerbaijan's cultural and historical heritage for 17 years.
The government defended the law, saying it was intended to support rights groups and aid agencies. It said it had made improvements in human rights protection in recent years.

Ugandas Constitutional Court last week heard arguments from nongovernmental organizations criticizing a 2016 law that they say gives the government unprecedented powers to regulate civil society, with the executive assuring instead that it helps better protect it.

Chapter Four Uganda and the Center for Constitutional Governance say the law subjects NGOs to such extensive government control and interference that it would affect the rights to freedom of expression and association guaranteed by the Ugandan constitution.

Some provisions of the law allow the executive to close down an organization for reasons that are too broad and vague, they said. These provisions allow for restrictive and heavy administrative procedures and criminal sanctions against civil society, said Anthony Masake, director of Chapter Four Uganda.

Over the past three years, the implementation of the law has had deeply worrying effects on the ability of citizens to freely exercise their rights, he said. No deadline has been set for a decision by the Constitutional Court in the case.

In early February, the government announced that it would not renew the mandate of the local office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which expires at the end of the year, because it believed it had developed enough dynamic internal institutions on human rights.

The decision was criticized by Muwada Nkunyingi, a member of the National Unity Platform led by Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, one of the main opponents of President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda with an iron fist since 1986. According to him, the government wants to violate human rights without hindrance.

During the last presidential election in 2021, journalists were attacked, lawyers imprisoned and several opposition leaders muzzled.
Cape Verde intends to attract public and private investments of 5,000 million euros to meet the agenda of the sustainable development program by 2030 and will call on the countrys international partners for support.

Cape Verde deserves and is receiving a lot of sympathy from the international community. I am convinced that we will be able to mobilize the essential funding we need to make Cape Verde a relevant country for the African continent, a relevant country for the world, a better country for each of its fellow citizens in the country, but also spread to various corners of the world, said the Deputy Prime Minister, Olavo Correia.

The Prime Minister, who is also Minister of Finance and Business Development, presented in Praia, the International Partners Conference PEDS (Strategic Plan for Sustainable Development) II, 2022/2026  first cycle of the global program Ambition 2030  which will take place next April 27 and 28, in the island of Boa Vista, under the theme Driving change and accelerating development.

PEDS II is going to be financed in a logic not only public, but particularly in a logic of public-private partnership. Therefore, it is not the State that will finance PEDS, but we already have until 2030 values around 5,000 million Euros of investments that should be channeled to Cape Verde. Public investments, but also private ones, and also within the framework of public-private partnerships, explained Olavo Correia, on the sidelines of the presentation, which has already involved representatives of the international community.

PEDS II was presented by the Cape Verdean government in 2022, designed to consolidate the sustainable development strategy and accelerate structural transformations that will make the country more resilient and less vulnerable to external shocks, while providing for an average annual economic growth of no less than 5%, the eradication of extreme poverty by 2026, the reduction of absolute poverty, and the reduction of regional asymmetries, strengthening territorial cohesion and social cohesion.

The plan aims to meet Cape Verdes strategic objectives, namely to ensure economic recovery, fiscal consolidation and sustainable growth, promote diversification and make Cape Verde a circulation economy located in the mid-Atlantic, among others.
The Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulema, under the presidency of King Mohammed VI, Commander of the Faithful, is determined to work in the service of Islam, peace and brotherhood that binds Morocco to African countries, including Ethiopia, reiterated, Sunday in Addis Ababa, Secretary General of the Foundation, Mohamed Rifki.

Rifki who was speaking at a ceremony organized by the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Ulema on the occasion of the closing of the 4th national competition of memorization, recitation and psalmody of the Holy Quran organized in Addis Ababa, by the section of the Foundation in Ethiopia, noted that this stage of the contest in this East African country which offered the opportunity to 50 young boys and girls, was strong insofar as the candidates have shown exceptional talent and the members of the jury have found difficulties to decide between them.

The stage of Addis Ababa reflected the interest given in Ethiopia to the memorization and psalmody of the Holy Quran, stressed the Foundations Secretary General.

Rifki emphasized the Kings concern for the Ulema in Africa through the actions of the Foundation in the service of Islam, peace, development and tranquility in the African continent.

He also highlighted the central role of religious scholars in the supervision of societies in accordance with the noble values of Islam which advocates tolerance, coexistence and solidarity.
A delegation of U.S. Senators has praised the key role of King Mohammed VI in advancing peace, prosperity and security across the region and throughout the world.

We express our deep appreciation to His Majesty King Mohammed VI for his commitment to strengthening relations between the U.S. & Morocco, and for his key role in advancing peace, prosperity and security across and throughout the world, said Senator Bob Menendez on Monday in Casablanca following talks with FM Nasser Bourita.

It was an opportunity to review the strong Moroccan-U.S. relationship and discuss bilateral cooperation to address, together, a wide range of regional and international challenges, added Mr. Menendez, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, one of the six-member senators delegation visiting Morocco.

Talks also covered bilateral partnership on a range of security issues, including the fight against terrorism, underlined the Democrat senator, describing Morocco as one of the U.S. closest and oldest allies of the United States.

For his part, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said that U.S. congressmen from both parties see Morocco as a stabilizing force in an unstable region, affirming that the North African Kingdom stands out as a stable force.

He also described the relationship between Rabat and Washington as one of the strongest that the United States of America maintains in the region.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Face blindness, a mystifying condition that can trick us into believing we recognize people we've never met or make us fail to recognize those we have, has been previously estimated to affect between 2 and 2.5 percent of people in the world.

Now, a new study by researchers at Harvard Medical School (HMS) and the VA Boston Healthcare System is providing fresh insights into the disorder, suggesting it may be more common than currently believed.

Published in February 2023 in Cortex, the study findings indicate that as many as one in 33 people (3.08 percent) may meet the criteria for face blindness, or prosopagnosia. This translates to more than 10 million Americans, the research team said.

The study found similar face-matching performance between people diagnosed with prosopagnosia using stricter vs. looser criteria, suggesting that diagnostic criteria should be expanded to be more inclusive. That could lead to new diagnoses among millions who may have the disorder but don't realize it.

In the new study, led by Joseph DeGutis, HMS associate professor of psychiatry at VA Boston, the researchers found that face blindness lies on a spectrumone that can range in severity and presentationrather than representing a discrete group. The authors also provide diagnostic suggestions for identifying mild and major forms of prosopagnosia based on guidelines for major and mild neurocognitive disorders in the DSM5, the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

The study results are based on a web-based questionnaire and tests administered to 3,341 individuals. First, the researchers asked participants whether they experience difficulties recognizing faces in their everyday lives. Then they administered two objective tests to determine whether they had difficulties learning new faces or recognizing highly familiar, famous faces.

The results showed that 31 individuals out of the 3,341 had major prosopagnosia, while 72 of the 3,341 had a milder form. The researchers also observed that there were no neatly divided discrete groups of people with poor or good ability to recognize faces. Rather, the ability to recognize faces appeared to lie on a continuum, they said.

Finally, the researchers compared face-matching scores among people with prosopagnosia diagnosed using different criteria and found that using stricter diagnostic cutoffs did not correspond with lower face-matching scores.

More information: Joseph DeGutis et al, What is the prevalence of developmental prosopagnosia? An empirical assessment of different diagnostic cutoffs, Cortex (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2022.12.014 Journal information: Cortex
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The Amsler grid test is a small piece of paper with horizontal and vertical lines held at a reading distance with the observer looking with each eye separately and focusing on the dot in the center. Credit: Yousif Subhi

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one the most prevalent eye diseases. In the late stage of the disease, newly formed vessels in the retina alter its structure, which leads to blurry and distorted vision. This condition is called wet AMD and if left untreated, it can lead to severe and irreversible vision loss. Among the elderly, wet AMD is a leading cause of vision loss.

How do we detect wet AMD?

The change in vision can be subtle in the beginning with slow, gradual worsening of symptoms. Realizing that one needs an eye examination is not always easy. But timely diagnosis and treatment of wet AMD is crucial to saving vision.

Eyes at risk of wet AMD have features characterized as early AMD or dry AMD. These can progress to wet AMD, but many patients live their lives without ever experiencing a progression to wet AMD.

Health professionals widely recommend the use of the Amsler grid test as a method of self-test for wet AMD.

The Amsler grid test in theory

The Amsler grid was developed by Swiss ophthalmologist Marc Amsler in 1940s. This is a grid with vertical and horizontal lines and a dot in the center. The observer looks at the grid with each eye separately, and focuses on the dot in the center. This method allows detection of a distorted visual experience in one eye, which otherwise can be difficult to observe.

The Amsler grid is, at least in theory, a great test. It is easy to use and has an extremely low cost, as it only requires a piece of paper. Therefore, it is widely recommended as a self-test for early detection of wet AMD.

But that is theory. In practice, individuals at risk of wet AMD already have certain changes in their retina. Although they may not experience it themselves, there may already be blurry and distorted vision because of these so-called early AMD features.

The Amsler grid test in practice

In a recent meta-analysis study published in JAMA Ophthalmology, we evaluated how well the Amsler grid test actually detected wet AMD.

We collected data from 10 studies with data from a total of 425 eyes with wet AMD and 1,262 eyes at risk of wet AMD (early/dry AMD).

When performed under supervision and in the best possible conditions, the Amsler grid was positive in 2 of 3 cases with wet AMD. In patients at risk of wet AMD (early/dry AMD), the Amsler grid was positive in 1 of 3.

In other words, this was far from being a perfect tool as it misses some cases of wet AMD and wrongly suggests wet AMD in others.

We recommend to health care professionals that if they prescribe the Amsler grid for patients, they should also allocate 510 minutes to ensure that it is used correctly. Patients should also be made aware of vision irregularities and seek an eye examination upon any visual decline regardless of the Amsler grid.

This story is part of Science X Dialog, where researchers can report findings from their published research articles. Visit this page for information about ScienceX Dialog and how to participate.

More information: Jakob Bjerager et al, Diagnostic Accuracy of the Amsler Grid Test for Detecting Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration, JAMA Ophthalmology (2023). DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2022.6396 Journal information: JAMA Ophthalmology

Yousif Subhi is an MD PhD, senior resident, and associate professor in ophthalmology based in Copenhagen and Odense, Denmark.
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When a couple seeks out therapy, they've probably been struggling and stuck for some time.

Licensed therapists offer expertise and experience at helping couples work through issues, not altogether different from what an individual therapist might do for an individual who is struggling.

Whether the issue is conflict, communication, forgiveness for past hurts or something else, a couples therapist can guide a willing pair through the process of working issues out or deciding what to do next.

"People don't go to therapy just with the equivalent of a headache in terms of the relationship problems," said Everett Worthington, commonwealth professor emeritus for Virginia Commonwealth University, in Richmond. "I think when couples feel frustrated and can't seem to make any headway on the problems on their own, then they start looking for some kind of help."

What is a couples therapist?

The American Psychological Association (APA) describes couple and family psychology as a specialty that is "focused on the emotions, thoughts and behaviors of individuals, couples and families in relationships and in the broader environment in which they function."

Marriage and family therapy is "brief; solution-focused; specific, with attainable therapeutic goals; and designed with the 'end in mind,'" according to the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).

A therapist may be licensed by the AAMFT to work with couples and families after receiving a master's or doctorate degree and getting some practical experience.

Couples therapy typically is short-term with an average of 12 sessions overall, according to AAMFT.

Often, the first line of help a person may seek is a trusted friend, family member or religious professional, Worthington said. For some, that is effective.

Others may still need solutions and seek out a professional therapist.

"By the time many couples get to professional therapists, they've been through a lot of advice, more or less helpful, usually less helpful if they've gotten to the place where they go to a professional," Worthington said. "And, so, their relationship has had a lot more time to solidify the problems and so it becomes more challenging for them than if they went earlier on."

What does a couples therapist do?

A couples therapist guides conversations with an aim toward working out specific problems between a couple or in a family. This can help improve troubled relationships among family members, according to the Mayo Clinic.

A therapist might help couples look at their ability to solve problems and express thoughts and emotions productively, according to the Mayo Clinic. During therapy, family roles, behavior patterns and strengths might also be explored.

This type of therapy can be helpful at any stage in a relationship, according to an article from the Cleveland Clinic. Even pre-marital counseling can help build communication and problem-solving skills, it noted.

That same article noted that APA reports that marriage counseling works for 75% of couples. For the 25% for whom it isn't effective, most were either already actively separating or in abusive relationships.

What kinds of relationship problems can couples counseling help address?

Typical concerns include:

Conflict

Communication problems

Intimacy problems and infidelity

Forgiveness and reconciliation for past hurts

Falling out of love or growing apart

Depression, anxiety and individual psychological problems

Addiction or serious mental health issues being experienced by a family member

Major life adjustments, including a disruptive job change, infertility, financial distress, death of a loved one

Couples therapy could be lifesaving. In October, HealthDay reported on a study that found heart patients under severe marital stress were 67% more likely to have recurring chest pain in the first year after a heart attack.

Patients should "be aware that marital stress in their life could be affecting their recovery," lead researcher Cenjing Zhu, a doctoral candidate in chronic disease epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health in New Haven, Conn., said in that story.

What is a couples counseling session like?

Sessions typically last 50 to 60 minutes, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Often, the couple meets together with the therapist, but sometimes couples counseling is done individually, Worthington said.

Therapists take different approaches, either working with a couple on current issues or working backward from where those issues began, he said.

A couple typically gets a formal assessment before starting counseling and then a treatment plan they agree on. It may dictate, to some degree, what the sessions will cover, Worthington said.

"What we're getting around to is trying to more generally figure out how to resolve differences so that they can apply this not just to the issue of the day but to all the issues," he said.

While communication has long been considered critical to a relationship, having a strong emotional bond is really what can help a couple succeed, Worthington said.

He said couples need to form, maintain, grow andwhen damagedrepair that emotional bond.

How to find a couples therapist

A word-of-mouth recommendation from a friend, family member or pastor can sometimes be a good choice.

An employee assistance program at your job may be able to offer suggestions. A health insurance company might have a list of providers. State or local mental health agencies are also good resources.

Someone seeking a couples therapist can also search by ZIP code on the Psychology Today website.

Copyright  2023 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
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Dehydration is a risk for delirium. Credit: Shutterstock

Delirium is a sudden decline in a person's usual mental function. It occurs when signals in the brain aren't sending and receiving properly, causing confusion in thinking and altered behavior or levels of consciousness.

Delirium isn't a diseaseit's a clinical syndrome or condition that is usually temporary and treatable. It's often mistaken for dementia because both conditions have similar symptoms, such as confusion, agitation and delusions. If a health-care professional doesn't know the patient, it can be difficult to tell the difference.

Up to one-third of older people admitted to hospital are diagnosed with delirium. This increases the risk of unnecessary functional decline, a longer hospital stay, falls, needing to be admitted to a residential aged care facility, and death.

However, identifying the condition early reduces these risks. Delirium can also be prevented by identifying who is vulnerable to the condition and finding ways of reducing the person's risk.

What causes delirium?

Delirium is usually caused by a number of underlying acute (short-term) illnesses and medical complications. Elderly people are vulnerable to delirium because their bodies have fewer reserves than younger people to respond to these stressors. People with dementia are particularly at risk.

Factors that cause or increase the risk of delirium include:

malnutrition

dehydration

new medications

a fall

surgery

infection

admission to the intensive care unit

multiple bed moves

pain.

A diagnosis of delirium is made on the basis of clinical history, behavioral observation and a cognitive assessment by a clinician trained to assess delirium.

The patient and their family or caregiver should also be asked about any recent changes in the patient's behavior or thinking.

So how can it be prevented or treated?

Clinical care focuses on preventing delirium, managing risk factors and symptoms, and reducing the chance of complications, which prolong or worsen the condition.

To help prevent delirium we can:

frequently reorient the person (reminding them of their location, the date and time)

encourage the person to get out of bed and, where appropriate, to walk around, while ensuring they're safe from falling

manage their pain

ensure adequate nutrition and hydration

reduce their sensory impairments (helping them put on glasses and hearing aids and ensuring they're working)

ensure proper sleep patterns.

Why is delirium under-diagnosed?

While delirium is potentially preventable, it's poorly recognized, and cases are often missed. This is due to inadequate knowledge among the attending health-care staff, a lack of routine formal screening and assessment, and health-care staff not knowing the patient.

Diagnosing delirium can be difficult when symptoms fluctuate during the day. Changes in alertness come and go, with people usually more alert in the morning and less so at night.

Delirium is also under-recognized because it can present very differently. In some people it can result in hyperactivity (hallucinations, delusions or uncooperative behavior), and in other people, hypoactivity (decreased arousal which can be mistaken for fatigue or depression), or mixture of both.

Around 50% of people who are discharged from hospital with unresolved delirium symptoms can experience symptoms lasting for months. Alarmingly, some people transition into permanent states of cognitive impairment.

Delirium takes a toll on caregivers

Delirium costs the Australian government around A$8.8 billion a year.

The greater cost, however, is that experienced by the patient and their family. The sudden change in a person's behavior and/or emotions as a result of delirium causes high levels of stress and anxiety for family caregivers.

Caregivers of older adults diagnosed with delirium report high levels of psychological distress, poor well-being and less satisfaction with life because of their care-giving role.

The identification and management of risk for delirium is therefore imperative for safe and quality care for both patients and their family.

Partnering with family caregivers

Partnering with family caregivers can improve the care outcomes for older people who are hospitalized.

Family caregivers and friends are well placed to detect changes in patients' cognition and behavior. Close family members, in particular, have intimate knowledge about the person's previous mental state and can identify subtle changes in their behavior.

However, many caregivers of patients discharged from hospital with delirium receive little advice or ongoing support. Despite recent clinical standards recommending family caregivers be active participants in care, they're often left out. This has been compounded by the COVID pandemic.

To address this shortfall, we have developed a model of care to support the integration of caregivers as partners in the prevention and management of delirium to improve health outcomes.

Using a web-based toolkit, we're hoping to increase awareness and knowledge of delirium among caregivers of older adults in hospital who are at risk of delirium. It also aims to support the caregiver's well-being.

The toolkit is currently being trialed and evaluated at Tweed Hospital and, if successful, could be rolled out to all hospitals.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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A projection of CRH/GABA neurons in the medial BLA to the medial NAc shell. ac Retrograde tracing of CRH+ neuronal inputs to medial NAc shell of CRH-ires-CRE mice. a Schematic of construct and injection location of AAV2retroCAGFLEXtdTomatoWPRE virus that permits retrograde access to projection neurons providing afferent inputs to NAc. b Example confocal micrograph of locally infected CRH+ axon terminals in medial NAc shell. c Retrograde tracing identifies the medial BLA as a robust source of CRH+ NAc inputs. d 3D image (z-stack; 0.5 m steps) confirmed localization in the BLA of AAV-retro infected cells (red) that co-express endogenous CRH (green); dual labeled neurons = yellow. eg Anterograde tracing of CRH+ axonal projections from BLA to medial NAc shell. e, The AAV1-DIO-tdTomato construct and the viral genetic experimental design. f Virus injection is confined to the BLA, g and absent from the central amygdala (CeA), shown by selective expression of tdTomato in BLA CRH+ neurons. h BLA-origin CRH+ axons and terminals in the medial NAc shell. ik Virus injection into the medial NAc shell retrogradely infected somata in the BLA. i Combined fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and immunostaining with GAD67 mRNA in CRH+ cells in the BLA. Arrowheads point to co-localized GAD67 mRNA and virus-reporter labeling. j a BLA  NAc cell (red) co-expresses endogenous CRH (green) and vGAT (magenta), but k does not co-express the glutamatergic marker CaMKII. ** = Major Island of Calleja, ac anterior commissure, DB diagonal band. Scale bars in i and k = 10 m. To confirm findings, virus injections, projection assessment, and immunohistochemistry were assessed in mice from at least two independent litters. Credit: Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36780-x

A new brain connection discovered by University of California, Irvine researchers can explain how early-life stress and adversity trigger disrupted operation of the brain's reward circuit, offering a new therapeutic target for treating mental illness. Impaired function of this circuit is thought to underlie several major disorders, such as depression, substance abuse and excessive risk-taking.

In an article recently published online in Nature Communications, Dr. Tallie Z. Baram, senior author and UCI Donald Bren Professor and Distinguished Professor in the Departments of Anatomy & Neurobiology, Pediatrics, Neurology and Physiology & Biophysics, and Matt Birnie, lead author and a postdoctoral researcher, describe the cellular changes in the brain's circuitry caused by exposure to adversity during childhood.

"We know that early-life stress impacts the brain, but until now, we didn't know how," Baram said. "Our team focused on identifying potentially stress-sensitive brain pathways. We discovered a new pathway within the reward circuit that expresses a molecule called corticotropin-releasing hormone that controls our responses to stress. We found that adverse experiences cause this brain pathway to be overactive."

"These changes to the pathway disrupt reward behaviors, reducing pleasure and motivation for fun, food and sex cues in mice," she said. "In humans, such behavioral changes, called 'anhedonia,' are associated with emotional disorders. Importantly, we discovered that when we silence this pathway using modern technology, we restore the brain's normal reward behaviors."

Researchers mapped all the CRH-expressing connections to the nucleus accumbens, a pleasure and motivation hub in the brain, and found a previously unknown projection arising from the basolateral amygdala. In addition to CRH, projection fibers co-expressed gama-aminobutyric acid. They found that this new pathway, when stimulated, suppresses several types of reward behaviors in male mice.

The study involved two groups of male and female mice. One was exposed to adversity early in life by living for a week in cages with limited bedding and nesting material, and the other was reared in typical cages. As adults, the early adversity-experiencing male mice had little interest in sweet foods or sex cues compared to typically reared mice. In contrast, adversity-experiencing females craved rich, sweet food. Inhibiting the pathway restored normal reward behaviors in males, yet it had no effect in females.

"We believe that our findings provide breakthrough insights into the impact of early-life adversity on brain development and specifically on control of reward behaviors that underlie many emotional disorders. Our discovery of the previously unknown circuit function of the basolateral amygdala-nucleus accumbens brain pathway deepens our understanding of this complex mechanism and identifies a significant new therapeutic target," Baram said.

"Future studies are needed to increase our understanding of the different and sex-specific effects of early-life adversity on behavior."

More information: Matthew T. Birnie et al, Stress-induced plasticity of a CRH/GABA projection disrupts reward behaviors in mice, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36780-x Journal information: Nature Communications
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SHAP interaction plot for depression, insomnia, and anxiety. Users with lower depression pre-symptom severity are more likely to benefit from cannabis use than users with higher pre-symptom severity of depression. Users with lower insomnia pre-symptom severity are less likely to benefit from cannabis use than users with higher pre-symptom severity of insomnia. No consistent pattern of symptom improvement is observed in users with anxiety. Credit: Comprehensive Psychiatry (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152377

A small team of mental health care researchers from St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton and McMaster University, both in Canada, has found evidence that suggests the effectiveness of cannabis for treating mental illnesses such as depression and insomnia may depend on the severity of symptoms. In their study, published in the journal Comprehensive Psychiatry, the group analyzed data from a group of Strainprint mobile app users.

Prior research and anecdotal evidence have suggested that cannabis may reduce symptoms for some people experiencing mental health problems. In this new effort, the team in Canada studied the impact of cannabis on people experiencing depression, insomnia, excessive irritability, PMS, PTSD and intrusive thoughts.

To that end, they obtained access to data from people with such mental illnesses who regularly use the app Strainprint. The app allows users to record their type of illness, their level or degree of symptoms, concentrations of cannabis they are using for treatment of their illness, the product they use and its mode of use (edible, oil, flower, etc.).

After obtaining and analyzing the data from 1,300 adult users and applying an AI model, the researchers found some patterns. They noted that the severity of symptoms could play a role in how beneficial cannabis might be at alleviating symptoms. They found, for example, that many of the users reporting their symptoms as high reported little to no help with depression subsequent to cannabis use. Some, in fact, reported that cannabis made them feel worse.

However, many users who reported minor depression symptoms reported that using cannabis improved their symptoms. In sharp contrast, the opposite seemed to be the case for those experiencing insomnia. Many of the users who reported having minor symptoms found that taking cannabis did little to help them sleep. Many of those who reported severe symptoms, however, found it helped them. The results, the team notes, suggests it might be possible to predict whether taking cannabis might help to reduce some mental health symptoms.

The research team acknowledges that their study was limited and that caution should be used when interpreting their results, especially for those using cannabis products to self-medicate their own mental health problems.

More information: Nirushi Kuhathasan et al, Predictors of perceived symptom change with acute cannabis use for mental health conditions in a naturalistic sample: A machine learning approach, Comprehensive Psychiatry (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152377

 2023 Science X Network
Elnur Enveroglu

The British media has recently been inundated with news about the wicked xenophobic activities of pro-Armenian and anti-Islamist Baroness Caroline Cox.

This revelation of the British media also shed light on the ardent pro-Armenian stance of Caroline Cox and laid bare the mystery behind her years-long anti-Azerbaijani label and slander propaganda she tirelessly spearheaded in defiance of calls for an unbiased attitude. Several years back from now, the Armenian media were either reporting about her meetings in Karabakh or leading "humanitarian actions in support of the poor ethnic Armenians in the region".

Now when her behind-the-curtain anti-Azerbaijani and anti-Islamic activities are shed light on and unfounded services in return for big money are becoming public, one cannot get calm but dig further to name and shame hundreds of them around, who used to line their pockets and still do same.

The revelation of some secret documents about funding from an American organization, run by evangelical philanthropists linked to orthodox Christian groups and anti-gay marriage campaigns, spilled the beans about the old propagandist, forcing her to admit that she had received financial support from America, and served both anti-Islamic and Armenian friends wholeheartedly.

We wonder, who is Baroness (Caroline) Cox in the media spotlight? Let's get a close look at her biography:

Baroness (Caroline) Cox was a deputy speaker of the House of Lords from 1985 to 2005. She was Founder Chancellor of Bournemouth University; Chancellor of Liverpool Hope University from 2006-2013 and is a Hon  obviously, and not surprisingly for her racist activities.

Being the founder and trustee of MERLIN [Medical Emergency Relief International] and the founder and CEO of HART (Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust), Caroline Cox has been honored with several medals, including the International Mother Teresa Award from the All India Christian Council, and most importantly the Mkhitar Gosh Medal conferred by the so-called president of the Armenian Republic. Further to Coxs awards, it is sufficient to mention those of which she has lavishly been merited by universities in the United States of America, the Russian Federation, and Armenia.

Her humanitarian work takes her to conflict and post-conflict zones, in particular, the Armenian called so-called Nagorno Karabakh or more clearly saying Azerbaijans war-torn Karabakh region.

Publications include Coxs Book of Modern Saints and Martyrs (with Catherine Butcher); This Immoral Trade: Slavery in the 21st Century, with John Marks and The Very Stones Cry Out, The Persecuted Church: Pain, Passion and Praise, with Benedict Rogers.

Two biographies have been published by Monarch/Lion Hudson: The Baroness Cox: Voice for the Voiceless, by Andrew Boyd and The Baroness Cox: Eyewitness to a Broken World by Lela Gilbert.

As is seen in her enigmatic autobiography, Baroness Cox did not spare her generous help to her Armenian brothers and sisters, raising groundless claims against Azerbaijan even for a moment. This is even more evident when you visit her website, which operates under the domain baronesscox.com.

When visiting that page, one can immediately witness Mrs. Cox's baseless claim, and one should ask her, dear Mrs. Cox, you never set your foot on the ground in Karabakh. How come you record what happened there as if you were an eyewitness traveler? Where was this claim revealed to you that you decided to stand up and make claims that the Lachin road was blocked by Azerbaijanis? If you love your Armenian brothers so much, come and witness it yourself.

You were not satisfied with your baseless claims, moreover, you sent an urgent letter to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Commonwealth and Development Affairs at the US State Secretariat regarding so-called Nagorno-Karabakh

Finally, what we see about this controversial member of the House of Lords gives us the privilege to say that she has been active not only in generating groundless claims against Azerbaijans Karabakh problem and the situation in the South Caucasus but also in undermining the world of Islam by boosting the racism.

The facts obtained by the anti-racism campaign group Hope not Hate, based in the UK reveal that Equal and Free Limited, a not-for-profit company that is believed to have a link to Baroness Cox has received funding from an American organization run by two evangelical philanthropists. Even Mrs. Cox admitted that her failure to register support from the Equal and Free Limited has been total of negligence. So the hopes of the anti-Islamist and pro-Armenian former nurse Baroness Cox failed again.

Nick Lowles, chief executive of Hope not Hate, said that the group Mrs. Cox is involved, views Islam by itself as a danger to the West. According to him, they suppose Islam as in conflict with Western culture and Western civilization.

Thus, the facts obtained in this way once again confirm that Mrs. Cox's activities, as terrible as racism, are a source of danger for a region and even for the entire humanity.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

As soon as the news broke that 98-year-old former President Jimmy Carter had entered hospice care after many years of treatment for cancer, the salutes to his life of public service began flowing.

But for experts in end-of-life care, his announcement itself counts as one last act of public service.

That's because they see Carter's experience as a great prompt for other families to talk about, and take action on, the kind of care they want at the end of life.

For people with serious health conditions, and even healthy older adults, Carter's entry into hospice means a chance to discuss what they want their last yearsand their deathto be like.

It's also a chance to clear up confusion about hospice and other end-of-life care.

"Hospice is often an incredible resource for patients at the end of life, as well as the best way to support families, through care within their own home or nursing facilitybut it does not necessarily mean that someone is actively dying," said Maria Silveira, M.D., M.P.H., a Michigan Medicine and Veterans Affairs palliative care physician and researcher on many aspects of end-of-life care. "We also find that palliative care is often confused with hospice."

The way our country pays for hospice care hasn't changed since Medicare started covering it just after Carter left office in the early 1980s, says her colleague Phillip Rodgers, M.D., a family physician and palliative care specialist at Michigan Medicine who is active with national organizations advocating for better access to high-quality palliative care, including hospice care.

"People today live with a higher burden of serious illness, with many more treatment options available, than 40 years ago. But they and their families often need help earlier in the course of that illness than current hospice coverage provides," he said. "There are really important policy discussions under way, aimed at improving hospice access earlier in the course of illness."

Here's what Silveira and Rodgers wish more people knew.

Palliative care and hospice aren't the same thing

When someone has a serious health condition that can't be cured completely and is life-threatening, palliative care focuses what can be done to make them comfortable and support their quality of life and mental well-being.

But at the same time, they can continue to receive treatment for the illness to try to prevent further progression or keep major symptoms at bay. Essentially, palliative care is the wraparound support when dealing with a serious illnessso most large health systems offer it while patients are hospitalized.

Occasionally, health systems and cancer centers have dedicated outpatient palliative care clinics that see patients with serious illness while they are receiving care from other specialists.

Doctors recommend hospice, rather than palliative care, when aggressive treatment is no longer having an effect on their disease, and the patient and family want care that focuses on comfort only.

"Hospice is appropriate when someone with serious illness finds that going back and forth between the hospital, the emergency room and the doctor's office over and over is too burdensome and no longer useful," said Silveira.

In hospice care, she explains, the emphasis is on maximizing comfort for the patient and support for the family. Hospice care can be provided at home, in a nursing home or in a hospice residence. Aggressive treatment of the patient's underlying condition stops, but that doesn't mean all care stops.

Entering hospice care doesn't mean death will come within days or even weeks

On average, people with Medicare coverage who entered hospice care in recent years lived about three weeks after making the transition. But Medicare covers hospice care for longer periodspatients who are considered at high risk of dying in the next six months might be eligible.

Rodgers notes that Medicare's current hospice benefit requires two doctors to certify the six-month prognosis. People with Medicare Advantage plans currently must get their hospice coverage through regular Medicare.

"The problem is, as a profession we really struggle to predict how long people are going to live in terms of months, but it's easier to do when it comes to days or weeks," he said. "Meanwhile, people with dementia have caregiving needs for years before they might have a six-month prognosis, so they're badly served by the Medicare hospice benefit as it's written today."

Silveira notes that qualifying for hospice can be difficult for patients with dementia or those who have multiple chronic illnesses and frailty. These patients typically need to be nearing death in order to receive hospice, but their families may become overwhelmed with the day-to-day responsibilities of caregiving long before their loved one qualifies for hospice.

Hospice at home doesn't mean 24/7 care by paid staff

Getting hospice care at home means a lot of things, including specialized providers who can be called around the clock for advice. But there's a lot of confusion about how much hands-on care it actually includes, Silveira says.

"Hospice agencies can arrange for pain medications, hospital beds, oxygen tanks, and other supplies to be brought to the home, which can be a wonderful benefit especially given the difficulties people now encounter in getting some of these medications from their local pharmacy in a timely way," she said. "Hospice can also provide some respite care and bath assistance. Even still, caring for a seriously ill loved one at home represents a giant responsibility for the family."

The nurse practitioners associated with hospice agencies can prescribe and manage medications, and the agency can send respite caregiving staff who can help with repositioning the person or bathing them. Those staff can also give family caregivers a chance to run to the store for groceries or tend to their own health or work needs.

Even with this help, experts recommend there be two people in the home at all times with a patient who is bed-bound. That can be spouses, grown children, close friends, neighbors, members of the person's faith community, or additional paid helpers. Silveira notes that it can take two people to get the person to the bathroom or portable commode, to move them in bed so they don't develop painful bedsores, to feed them or change sheets, clothes and adult diapers, and more.

Most people don't have the means to pay for additional home health aides around the clock, which can cost $30 an hour or more through an agency. Even if they have the means, or long-term care insurance that can be used for home health aides, families may be frustrated looking for agencies that have the capacity to provide support due to workforce shortages.

So building a team of unpaid helpers, to support the main family caregiver and the person in hospice, is critical. That means both physical support and emotional support for the person who is dying, and for their closest loved ones.

If you know that someone has entered hospice at home, or you think they may soon, now's the time to reach out and offer specific helpeven if it's just sitting by the bedside for a few hours while the person's primary caregiver sleeps or runs errands.

Hospice outside the home may require spending savings or applying for Medicaid

While surveys show that most Americans want to die at home, a sizable percentage do not. And for some who are already living in nursing homes, or getting care in a hospital, going home may not be possible.

That's why hospice agencies also offer their services within some nursing homes and hospice-run assisted living facilities. But these often require either payment out of the patient's or family's own savings or income, or from long-term care insurance if they have it. For those with lower incomes or amounts of savings, it's possible to apply for Medicaid coverage for hospice care in a Medicaid-certified long term care facility.

Rodgers notes that many families may be surprised to learn their loved one could qualify for Medicaid coverage of hospicebut that it's often hard to think about proving financial eligibility for this program at a time when a loved one is nearing death. Asking to speak to a social worker at the hospital or clinic is often a good way to get started.

Changes in the palliative care and hospice industry mean today's experience differs from past ones

Silveira notes that the rapid rise in telehealth appointments during the pandemic has been an incredible boon for palliative care providers. Now, after establishing a connection with a patient in person, palliative care providers can do many things via a video chat or even a phone chat so that the seriously ill patient doesn't need to travel to the clinic.

As a ProPublica/New Yorker investigative news article found, the past decade has seen a rise in for-profit companies acquiring local hospice agencies or starting new ones.

This means that hospice staffing models of the pastwhere a specific nurse or aide might be assigned to a few patients and care for them until they diehave changed. Now, a hospice patient might have many different hospice staff coming to their home over the course of their care. New faces nearly every day, or every shift, can mean less continuity in care.

Even if a hospice patient or caregiver develops a connection with a particular team member, the patient may not be able to request that person be assigned to them, depending on the hospice agency, Silveira notes.

With all the changes in the hospice industry, experts recommend families "shop around" for the right hospice agency. The Medicare system now has a tool that lets anyone compare the quality of different hospice agencies in their area. But it doesn't include patient ratings, so it's important to ask around and look at other ratings online when trying to decide which hospice agency to choose.

Get key documents and financial advice in order well before you need them

One key thing everyone should have in placeeven if they don't have a serious illness and even if they're marriedis signed paperwork that specifies who they authorize to make medical decisions for them if they can no longer do so.

Michigan Medicine offers a free tool that does not require a lawyer or notary, and walks a person through the steps of choosing and formally designating this Patient Advocate, and having that choice witnessed so it is legally binding as a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare.

It's critical to have this in place before an illness robs someone of their ability to make decisions, because admission to nursing homes for hospice care can hang on whether it's been documented that someone had the patient's permission to make that decision on their behalf.

Another key thing to do now, even if you don't have a major health condition, is to look at options for getting long-term care insurance through your employer or an insurance agent. These plans can offer funds to help pay for nursing home care, hospice residence or home health aides when other coverage isn't available.

If you're a person who might need to provide home-based care for a loved one in hospice, now is the time to find out how to use any paid time off, paid leaves or unpaid time off protected by the Family and Medical Leave Act.

If the person who might need hospice care has assets that could keep them from qualifying for Medicaid benefits, or substantial assets, it may be a good idea to talk with a financial planner or attorney about possible options.

A Durable Power of Attorney for financial decisions, and designating a loved one to be a joint holder of checking and savings accounts, joint owner of property, or designated beneficiaries of retirement accounts, is important. Without it, there can be delays in paying bills and for expenses once the patient loses the ability to do it themselves.

Policymakers need to hear from patients and families about their hospice and other end-of-life care experiences

Rodgers, who works with the advocacy arm of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Care Medicine to talk with elected officials and federal agencies about palliative and end-of- life care, says key changes may be on the horizon. But how fast they happen may depend on the voices of those who have experienced the current system as patients or caregivers.

For instance, the requirement that admission to hospice be based on life expectancy and not the person's condition and needs is something that could change. So could the requirement that all treatment and hospitalization for the underlying condition be stoppedfor instance, removing fluid that has built up in people with congestive heart failure, which can greatly improve someone's quality of life.

"There has been real interest among some in Congress and in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to reimagine the hospice benefit and modernize it to be based on need not a six-month prognosis, and to improve quality while reducing waste, fraud and abuse," he said.

If such changes had been made earlier, he says, someone with President Carter's medical history but fewer financial resources could potentially have gotten hospice care covered earlier in the course of their illness, while still getting cancer treatment.

"As the benefit is structured today, there are important inequities based on income, availability of family members to step out of the workforce and become home caregivers, and other factors such as whether someone's cultural or spiritual background means they prefer not to die at home," said Rodgers. "Hospice is a $20 billion part of our health care system that needs to be modernized to improve access and accountability. Policymakers do pay attention to what they're hearing from their constituents."
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Cumulative survival by sexual orientation and preventability of death (4.0 vs. <4.0), Canadian Community Health Survey-Canadian Mortality Database cohort, Canada, 20032017 (Kaplan-Meier curve); Note. SM = sexual minority; Het = heterosexual. Credit: SSM - Population Health (2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101276

The scientific literature has repeatedly shown health gaps between lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) and heterosexual people.

In 2020, for instance, Statistics Canada reported that members of the LGB community were three times more likely to have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives. LGB people also reported higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and substance abuse than their heterosexual counterparts.

But few studies to date have examined mortalityand specifically, deaths with relatively preventable causesin LGB populations.

Now an international research team has looked into the issue by comparing preventable mortality estimates for lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults in Canada with those for heterosexual adults.

"Respondents from LGB communities were at higher risk of all-cause mortalityspecifically, the risks were higher for heart disease, accidents, HIV and suicide," said study co-author Olivier Ferlatte, a professor in Universite de Montreal's School of Public Health and researcher with the Public Health Research Center.

Published online in October in SSMPopulation Health, the study was led by health researchers at Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia and also included colleagues in Vancouver, Toronto, the U.S. and Sweden.

'Minority stress' and restricted access

According to the research team, higher mortality among LGB people can be partly explained by a phenomenon called "minority stress." This theory describes how an accumulation of real or perceived external threats to sexual minorities (such as violence, discrimination and social exclusion) combines with internalized shame and gender identity concealment to produce psychological, physiological and behavioral responses.

"This stress causes many LGB people to delay or avoid medical visits, either because they perceive or anticipate that health-care providers will stigmatize their minority sexual orientation, or because they have experienced discrimination or stigma firsthand," Ferlatte explained.

Another possible cause of higher mortality is the fact that LGB people have less access to both social supports (they are less likely to be part of a couple, resulting in smaller family and support networks) and material resources (due to lower incomes).

Ferlatte believes the mortality gap could be closed by expanding early and general access to LGB-friendly primary and preventive health care characterized by "openness, caring and acceptance."

An issue beyond sexual health

He sees LGB health as an overall health issue that goes well beyond sexual health. So it is critical to invest more heavily in primary care, which promotes early diagnosis of a range of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, he said.

Ferlatte also points to insufficient funding for mental health in Canada, noting that Canada is one of the few G7 countries without a national suicide prevention strategy.

"This context creates significant barriers to accessing mental health care, not to mention the fact that people are forced to wait several months and pay high fees to see a psychotherapist or a psychologist," he said.

More research with LGB communities is also needed, in Ferlatte's view, to better understand their needs and specificities.

"We are the first research group that has described preventable mortality in the LGB population," he noted. "We need to investigate this issue and then determine what kinds of interventions could reduce health gaps for sexual and gender minorities."

More information: Travis Salway et al, Preventable mortality among sexual minority Canadians, SSMPopulation Health (2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101276
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Theoretical framework. Data source: Author analysis. Credit: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (2023). DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20042944

To encourage more active lifestyles, public health agencies recommend mixed-use neighborhoods and "complete" streets that are friendlier to walkers and bikers, but new Cornell University research finds that while those strategies increase physical activity, an urban bias limits their applicability in many parts of the country.

Planners in suburban and rural communities should focus more on promoting recreational programs, expanding transportation options and creating safer environments to help an aging population get more exercise, according to the researchers' analysis of more than 1,300 U.S. counties and cities.

"These are things we can think about doing in any community," said Mildred Warner, professor of global development and of city and regional planning. "If your community is investing in recreation and social activity, they're more likely to address obesity and other problems linked to physical inactivity."

Warner and Xue Zhang, a postdoctoral scholar at Syracuse University, are co-authors of "Linking Urban Planning, Community Environment and Physical Activity: A Socio-ecological Approach," published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

The scholars' recommendations emerged from models they developed to identify the most important factorsindividual, community and policyinfluencing physical activity.

Demographic factors mattered most, the models showed. For example, communities with higher minority populations exercised less, likely due to lower incomes and longer commutes, Zhang said. Rural communities, whose populations on average are older and less affluent, similarly report less physical activity.

To better support rural and under-resourced communities, the researchers said, planners should work to broaden transportation options and promote recreation services, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across public health, planning, transportation and parks and recreation agencies. They should also give more attention to concerns about traffic safety and crime, in addition to policies promoting complete streets or mixed-use neighborhoods.

"Our models show safety is as important as transportation and more important than the built environment," the scholars wrote.

Examples of planning and policy changes that Warner and Zhang have explored in related research could include lowering the speed limit on rural roads to make them safer for walking or biking. Partnerships enabling schools, libraries and fire departments to share facilities for recreation programs, transportation or food distribution could also help overcome limitations in the built environment.

The COVID-19 pandemic, Warner said, demonstrated many local governments' ability to pivot overnight to alternative ways of doing business, and that spirit of collaboration and creativity will be needed as the U.S. population grays.

"As more of us get older, we've got to start designing our communities for everybody," Warner said. "We can't just have urban-based recommendations; we also need to think about what you would do in other places."
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Simulating cellular invasion (A) Illustration of simulation flow. (B) Summary statistics used to measure invasion: (i) traveling-wave solution to reaction-diffusion equations fit to the spatial configuration of cells, (ii) convex hull area. (C) Measurements of pure population invasion, detailing the effect of proliferation and motility rates on the phenotype observed. (D) Highlighting the effect of introducing interactions on the phenotype observed. As the positive interaction strength increases, the area invaded relative to the pure culture also increases in a co-culture. Credit: Cell Reports (2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111283

Scientists have shed light on how different types of cancer cells in an aggressive childhood brain cancer interact and work together to spread.

Using mathematical modeling, the team provides a framework for detecting, measuring and mapping interactions between different types of cells in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG)a brain tumor starting in a type of cell known as 'immature glial progenitor cells' before spreading to other parts of the brain.

Researchers at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, led the study, published in Cell Reports.

They hope targeting and blocking interactions that allow cells to work together to invade surrounding areas could become a new treatment strategy, which is urgently needed in this currently incurable childhood cancer.

Cells within tumors cooperate

DIPG tumors are made up of more than one subtype of cancer cell. In 2018, the team of scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) found the first evidence that different subtypes of cells within a tumor can cooperaterather than solely compete for resources, as was the common belief.

Their new findings show for the first time that some subtypes have a positive effect on others in terms of how the cells spreadopening up new avenues for testing and developing treatments for this childhood cancer.

The study explored the interaction between two different subtypes of cancer cellslabeled VI-E6 and VI-D10obtained from donated tissue from patient biopsies, when grown together in the lab. The VI-E6 subtype was able to spread further when grown in a co-culture with VI-D10.

Cooperation more than doubled the spread

Using deep learning to process images from experiments in the lab, scientists were able to identify interactions where one cell subtype cooperated and helped the other grow and spreadand differentiate between these interactions and those where one subtype spread more than the other due to other unrelated factors, such as space restrictions.

Previous models exploring cooperation between cancer cells focused on growth, but this innovative study is the first to measure interactions that affect the way tumor cells spread and invade surrounding areas.

Researchers demonstrated that cells behaved differently when cultured together in the lab, rather than in separate environments. Culturing two different subtypes together more than doubled the spread of the tumor.

When they grew the two different cell subtypes together, researchers found cancer cells were able to spread and invade a greater area. While one subtype traveled and spread more quickly, the speed of the other decreasedhighlighting commensal interactions, where one subtype gains benefit without harming or benefitting the other, as well as exploitative interactions, where the fitness of one subtype is enhanced while reducing the fitness of the exploited subtype.

Towards more and better personalized treatment options

The findings demonstrate that interactions between DIPG cell subtypes play a key role in helping tumors invade the local environment and spreadadding to our understanding of how this childhood cancer progresses.

In this way, researchers provide a framework which could be applied to more cancer types. By providing a method of identifying and measuring these cell interactions, the effect of treatments can also be explored.

Researchers are increasingly aware of the importance differences between cancer cells within a single tumor can have on treatment outcomes. Their hope is that identifying and measuring interactions between cancer cell subtypes could lead to better and more personalized treatment options.

The study was co-led by Professor Chris Jones and Professor Andrea Sottoriva, former Team Leader at the Centre for Evolution and Cancer at the ICR.

Attacking tumors by 'disrupting positive interactions'

Study co-leader Professor Chris Jones, Professor of Childhood Brain Tumor Biology at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said,

"This childhood cancer is incredibly difficult to treat. Nearly all children with DIPG die within two years, and new treatments are urgently needed.|

"We are beginning to decipher how different types of cells in DIPG interact and work with each other to fuel the disease.|

"By combining deep learning and advanced mathematical modeling with experimental data, we provide a framework for detecting, measuring and mapping these interactionswhich we hope will lead to new ways of testing and developing treatments that attack tumors by disrupting positive interactions and promoting negative interactions between cell subtypes."

Study author Dr. Haider Tari, who was part of the Evolutionary Genomics and Modeling Team at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said, "If one subtype cooperates with a different subtype in a way that drives the tumor's growth and spread, it would be crucial to target and block this cooperationwith the goal of stopping cancer in its tracks."

"This innovative study provides a way to identify whether cells are interacting and by how much, and the framework could be applied to a number of different cancer types."

Dr. Laura Danielson, Children's and Young People's Research Lead at Cancer Research UK, said, "This study demonstrates the power of mathematical modeling to better understand how cancer cells interact and spread."

"More work needs to be done to understand how we could potentially target these interactions, but discovery research like this brings hope for development of more effective treatments for children and young people affected by cancer."

More information: Haider Tari et al, Quantification of spatial subclonal interactions enhancing the invasive phenotype of pediatric glioma, Cell Reports (2022). DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111283 Journal information: Cell Reports
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

In a recently published editorial in the journal Genes & Cancer, researcher Tatsuro Jo from the Japanese Red Cross Nagasaki Genbaku Hospital's Department of Hematology discussed aggressive type adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL). ATLL caused by human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection is associated with dismal survival prospects, even after the approval of mogamulizumab (a monoclonal antibody for C-C chemokine receptor 4 antigen).

A large number of genetic and epigenetic abnormalities resulting from the pleotropic effects of HTLV-1 Tax and HBZ reportedly are present in ATLL patients, which may be the cause of their poor response to intensive chemotherapies.

The HTLV-1 sequence is completely distinct from the human genome, making the HTLV1 gene products highly immunogenic to humans and targets for the humoral and cellular immunity. Actually, antibodies against the HTLV-1 gag and env gene products are ubiquitously detected in HTLV-1 carriers. Furthermore, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) against HTLV-1 Tax (TaxCTLs) are often observed in long-term survivors with ATLL treated with or without allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Thus, the activation of antitumor cellular immunity may play an important role among long-term survivors with ATLL, an intractable disease.

In patients with ATLL, the CD4/CD8 ratio in T lymphocytes is often inverted due to a decrease in CD4-positive T lymphocytes, including regulatory T lymphocytes (Treg), after treatment with mogamulizumab. Conversely, we have noticed that the CD4/CD8 ratio is almost always inverted in long-term surviving ATLL patients in the pre-Mogamulizumab era. Credit: Impact Journals LLC

Furthermore, several of these patients developed herpesvirus infections, such as herpes zoster and herpes encephalitis, while their disease was controlled by chemotherapy and subsequently exhibited CD4/CD8 ratio reversal. Herpesvirus infection has been reported to strongly activate host cellular immunity.

"Although contracting herpes simplex or herpes zoster is unpleasant, the mechanism by which these herpesvirus infections can produce a therapeutic effect on refractory ATLL via the activation of the host's cellular immunity is extremely interesting and worth further study," says Jo.

More information: Tatsuro Jo, Severe herpesvirus infection beats adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, Genes & Cancer (2023). DOI: 10.18632/genesandcancer.228. www.genesandcancer.com/archive/v14/

Provided by Impact Journals LLC
MONDAY, Feb. 27, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Black children with atopic dermatitis are more likely to have asthma than non-Hispanic White children, but they are less likely to be evaluated by an allergist, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, held from Feb. 24 to 27 in San Antonio.

Ellen Daily, M.D., from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, and colleagues explored real-world diagnosis patterns and factors associated with asthma risk in a large urban population of children aged 0 to 18 years diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. The risk for asthma diagnosis was examined in association with race, sex, age, body mass index (BMI), insurance, and area deprivation index (ADI).

The study population included 728 Black children and 246 non-Hispanic White children. The researchers found that Black children were significantly more likely than non-Hispanic White children to have an asthma diagnosis (31.2 versus 10.0 percent). This difference was impacted by three main variables: higher ADI, higher BMI, and older age at time of evaluation. Compared with non-Hispanic White children, Black children with asthma were less likely to see an allergist (46.7 versus 69 percent) and were more likely not to have prior inhalant allergy testing (odds ratio, 57.5).

"To minimize existing health care disparities, more research must be done to help us understand what factors underlie the observed differences in the diagnosis and management of atopic diseases, so that we can overcome existing barriers to providing equitable asthma care," a coauthor said in a statement.
In 2022 a male wolf that was captured and fitted with a GPS collar south of Dillon decided to take a long hike through some of Montanas most spectacular wild country.

Traveling east it trotted across the Madison, Gallatin and Absaroka mountain ranges in southwest Montana. He visited Yellowstone National Park, one of the densest wolf populations in the lower 48 states, before climbing over the Beartooth Mountains  the highest in the state. Still searching, the wolf crossed the Clarks Fork Yellowstone River valley and wandered into the Pryor Mountains.

If the wolf had hitchhiked a ride in an automobile, the distance covered is close to 300 miles. But those miles dont reflect the elevation gains and losses of climbing up and over the mountain ranges. They also dont tally the rivers that course through the landscape, including the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone and Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone.

Unfortunately, we only know all of this because the wolf made a decision that proved fatal and highlights the challenges of living with large predators. On Feb. 10, the wolf was shot north of Lovell, Wyoming, by Wildlife Services for killing livestock. It had lived in the Pryors about six months.

The 4- to 5-year old canine was not known to have previously killed livestock. No necropsy is planned.

Pack

The male wolf, a member of the Antone pack, was first collared in 2020 in the Gravelly Mountains by a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks crew conducting a livestock conflict mitigation study. At the time, the gray-coated wolf was estimated at 1 to 2 years old, was in good physical condition and had a normal weight. The average for males is about 90 pounds.

The Antone pack consists of five to six individuals that roam across about 225 square miles, according to Morgan Jacobsen, Communications and Education Program manager for FWP in Bozeman.

Travel

Although 300 miles is a normal dispersal distance for wolves, Jacobsen said, other wolves have been known to travel twice as far. Yellowstone wolves were documented walking as far south as Colorado, including a male and female that birthed six pups in 2021.

Some of the farthest dispersals we've seen include wolves that have traveled between the Bob Marshall to Boise; from the Paradise Valley to Colorado; and wolves coming from Oregon and Canada, and vice versa, Jacobsen said.

Wolves leave their packs for several reasons, including to find a mate, to start their own pack and in search of new territory and food resources. Some wolves leave after the death of their mate. Other wolves have been known to make lengthy 2,400-mile roundtrips before returning to their home territory.

New land

By late last summer the Antone pack wolf had wandered into the Pryor Mountains, a large parcel of rugged and diverse public land along the Wyoming-Montana border. The lowlands are desert-like, with sagebrush and juniper scattered amid rocky outcrops. From this dry landscape the mountains rise abruptly, climbing to a peak elevation of more than 8,700 feet. Temperatures can be toasty in the lowlands and require a jacket by the time a traveler reaches the top. The mountains are scarred by steep, deep canyons dotted with caves. The uplands feature flower-filled meadows and waist-high grasses.

Although devoid of wolves, the Pryors are home to predators that include black bears, coyotes and mountain lions. Other wildlife includes mule deer, bighorn sheep, grouse and wild horses.

About 75,000 acres of the Pryor Mountains is managed by the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Adjacent to the forest is 92,000 acres of Bureau of Land Management property. These adjoin the 120,000-acre Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, managed by the National Park Service. A portion of the BLM land contains the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range, made famous in Ginger Kathrens 1990 films documenting a white stallion named Cloud.

The mountains also border the Crow Indian Reservation to the east. The Hitting the Rock Mountains or Arrowheads, as the Crow call them, have long been used for vision quests with portions of the landscape home to mythic little people.

Alone

From around April 2022 until it was shot in February near Crooked Creek for killing livestock, the Antone wolf reportedly explored southwest Montana and the Pryor Mountains like a tourist on summer vacation.

We didn't have any reports of him being seen in the Pryor Mountains, but I think he might have been seen when he was on the Crow Reservation around Pryor, said Red Lodge FWP wildlife biologist Shawn Stewart in an email.

There were no reported livestock conflicts in Montana, and the wolf was still on the north side of the Pryors in early January, he added.

Neither the BLM nor the Forest Service received any reports of the wolf roaming the Pryor Mountains. If anyone visiting the range heard a howl or saw the gray ghost, theyve kept it largely to themselves.

The wolf moved south into Wyoming near Crooked Creek just a few days before killing two goats and a lamb on two Big Horn County ranches, according to FWP.

Michael Burrell, acting director for Wildlife Services in Cody, Wyoming, said there are occasional confirmed wolf sightings in the Bighorn Mountains farther south, but specifically in this area where this wolf was found, I would consider a wolf sighting rare.

Stewart said there was a rumor of wolves passing through the Pryor Mountains a couple of years ago, but it was never confirmed.

Zone

In Wyoming, outside of a designated trophy management region surrounding Yellowstone National Park in the northwestern corner of the state, wolves are considered a predator and can be killed without a license or with any limit as to how many can be killed. In Montana, all wolf hunting and trapping is regulated by FWP, although they can be shot in the act of killing livestock.

A total of 107 wolf mortalities were documented statewide in Wyoming in 2021, according to the Wyoming Game and Fish Departments annual report. Sixty-two were killed in the Wolf Trophy Game Management Area, 38 in the rest of the state where wolves are designated predatory animals, six in Yellowstone National Park, and one on the Wind River Reservation.

Conflict control mortalities in Wyoming in 2021 included 15 from agency-directed lethal control actions, one taken under the authority of a lethal take permit, and one taken for defense of private property.

Wolves were identified in 12 cattle and 21 sheep kills in Wyomings predator zone in 2021. In comparison, wolves killed 38 cattle and 32 sheep in the trophy area.

A bill working its way through the Wyoming Legislature this session would create a fund to compensate livestock owners for wolf kills in the predator zone. The initial allocation for the fund is proposed at $300,000. A similar program already exists in the trophy zone.

The chance that another wolf may one day wander onto public lands in the Pryor Mountains seems good considering wolves already occupy the landscape along the Beartooth Front near Red Lodge, roughly 40 miles away. Living in such an isolated habitat as the Pryors without running into trouble with livestock, however, poses an additional hurdle for wolves that may one day attempt to occupy the region.

Ironically, if the ranchers hadnt contacted Wildlife Services to dispatch the collared canine, the Antone pack wolfs wide-ranging trek may have gone unnoticed.
The hotly-anticipated trial of Alex Murdaugh is currently under way in South Carolina where he is facing life in prison for the double murder of his wife and son.

The 54-year-old heir to a prominent legal dynasty is accused of gunning down wife Maggie, 52, and their son Paul, 22, on the grounds of the sprawling family estate in Islandton back on 7 June 2021.

He was arrested in July 2022 and charged with two counts of murder and two counts of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

Mr Murdaugh has pleaded not guilty to the charges and maintains that the person or persons responsible for killing his wife and son is still at large.

Opening arguments kicked off the trial on 25 January, with both the prosecution and the defence going into graphic detail about the horrific injuries suffered by the two victims. And the bombshell details have not stopped since.

Prosecutors claim that Mr Murdaugh killed his wife and son to distract from his string of alleged financial crimes  at a time when his multi-million-dollar fraud scheme was on the brink of being exposed.

Meanwhile, the defence is seeking to paint him as a family man who could not have carried out the brutal murders because he loved his wife and son.

As a case that has captured national and international attention, its about so much more than the double murders.

The prominent legal scion is now at the centre of a series of wild allegations of an alleged hitman plot, multi-million-dollar fraud schemes and unexplained deaths and is facing a slew of more than 100 other charges.

So who is the man at the heart of the saga?

Who is Alex Murdaugh?

Alex Murdaugh was once a powerful figure in Hampton County, South Carolina, where his family has reigned over the local justice system for almost a century.

Three generations of the family  his father, grandfather and great-grandfather  all served as the solicitor in the 14th Judicial Circuit solicitors office.

His father Randy held the position until 2006 and was given the highest civilian award the Order of the Palmetto by the South Carolina governor in 2018 for his work. Randy died just three days after Maggie and Pauls murders.

Story continues

Due to the Murdaughs prominence in the judicial system in the lowcountry, the family held a reputation for being powerful and wielding their influence over matters.

Alex Murdaugh walks into the Colleton County Courthouse for jury selection on 23 January (AP)

Mr Murdaugh continued with the family tradition working as an attorney in the local prosecutors office and also at his own law firm PMPED (the M standing for Murdaugh).

He was married to wife Maggie  whom he met at college - and the couple had two sons Buster and Paul.

After the murders of his wife and son, it transpired that Mr Murdaugh had a two-decade-long opoiod addiction and he checked into rehab in September 2021.

Why is he on trial for murder?

On 7 June 2021, Maggie and Paul were found shot dead at the kennels of the familys sprawling hunting lodge in Islandton.

It was Mr Murdaugh who claimed he discovered their bodies, placing a dramatic 911 call where he cried and sobbed on the phone.

He said hed returned home from visiting his elderly mother and dying father to find his wife and son dead from multiple gunshot wounds.

In the audio, Mr Murdaugh is heard sobbing as he tells the dispatcher its bad and my wife and child have been shot badly.

Two different weapons were used to kill the victims, with Maggie shot five times with an automatic rifle and Paul shot twice  once in the head and once in the chest  with a shotgun.

For 13 months, no arrests were made in their murders, no suspects were named and no charges were brought over their killings until Mr Murdaugh was finally charged in July 2022.

Prosecutors say that Mr Murdaugh killed his wife and son in an attempt to distract from the other crimes and scandals swirling around him.

What other legal troubles is he facing?

Besides the murder case, Mr Murdaugh is facing at least 100 other criminal charges over a string of allegations.

Three months on from the murders  on 4 September 2021  Mr Murdaugh allegedly conspired to pay a hitman to shoot him dead so that Buster would inherit a $10m life insurance windfall.

The now-disbarred attorney initially claimed he was ambushed in a drive-by shooting while changing a tyre on his vehicle, but his story quickly unravelled and he confessed to orchestrating the plot.

Mr Murdaugh and his alleged co-conspirator Curtis Smith were arrested and charged over the incident.

One day before the shooting, Mr Murdaugh had been confronted by his law firm PMPED for allegedly stealing millions of dollars from clients.

He is now charged with more than 100 counts from multiple indictments alleging he stole nearly $8.5m from clients at his law firm in fraud schemes going back a decade.

The attorney, who has since been disbarred, allegedly represented the clients in wrongful death settlements before pocketing the money for himself.

Alleged victims include family members of Gloria Satterfield family, the Murdaughs longtime housekeeper who died in a mysterious trip and fall accident at the family home in 2018.

Mallory Beach died in a 2019 boat crash involving Paul Murdaugh (Facebook)

At the time, her death was regarded as an accidental fall  though the investigation was reopened after Maggie and Pauls murders.

The housekeeper is one of a series of other mystery deaths surrounding the Murdaughs.

Stephen Smith, 19, was found dead in the middle of the road in Hampton County, South Carolina. The openly gay teenager had suffered blunt force trauma to the head and his death was officially ruled a hit-and-run. But the victims family have long doubted this version of events, with the Murdaugh name cropping up in several police tips and community rumours.

An investigation has also been reopened into his death.

At the time of Pauls death, he was also awaiting trial over the death of 19-year-old Mallory Beach who died in a 2019 boat crash where Paul was allegedly drink driving behind the wheel. He was charged with boating under the influence and faced up to 25 years in prison but was killed before his trial.

The Murdaugh family reached a wrongful death settlement with the Beach family earlier in January.

Mr Murdaugh is also facing several other civil suits.
A man landed in jail after a vehicle chase that lasted more than 30 minutes through Burke and Caldwell counties late Sunday night.

Justin Patrick Preston, 36, of Caldwell County, led Morganton Department of Public Safety officers on a vehicle chase after failing to pull over at around 11:30 p.m. during a vehicle stop near Grace Ridge, a release from the department said.

Speeds reached more than 80 mph during the chase, with Preston driving recklessly on curvy back roads that eventually led back to N.C. 181. Officers were staged along the road with stop sticks, which Preston hit and the vehicle slowed down near Oak Hill Grocery. He was taken into custody without further incident, the release said.

The vehicle he was driving was running on rims toward the end of the vehicle pursuit. He was charged with felony flee to elude arrest, driving while license revoked, driving left of center and speeding in excess of 15 mph, the release said.

Preston was issued a $15,000 secured bond.

This isnt his first run-in with the law. Preston previously has been convicted of possession with intent to sell a Schedule II controlled substance and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance, according to information from the North Carolina Department of Public Safety.

Other agencies involved were the Burke County Sheriffs Office, North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Glen Alpine Police Department.
By Azernews





Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov has blamed Armenia for coming against Bakus proposal to set up border checkpoints on the operational Lachin road and the Zangazur corridor  yet to be built if the parties agree on it.

The foreign minister said this in a comment to reporters on February 26 when he was paying homage to the Khojaly genocide monument.

Jeyhun Bayramov commented on a statement of Armenia's Ararat Mirzoyan that the Pashinyan government was not accepting Azerbaijan's proposal to build a border checkpoint at the entrance of the Lachin road.

The Azerbaijani minister added that if these border checkpoints are created, everyone will see that the movement on the Lachin road proceeds in compliance with the requirements of the trilateral statement of the November 10, 2020.

We hope this would eliminate the tension, he said, adding that at our working discussions with many international partners, this proposal was accepted as a sound and constructive proposal.

However, unfortunately, Armenia did not respond to this in Munich. Two days later, the Armenian foreign minister issued a statement that this proposal was unacceptable to them. For us, it has several indicators. First is that Armenia is interested in continuing unlawful use of the Lachin road. This should raise a question for everyone. The second point is that there are great contradictions in Armenias approach. The contradiction is that Armenia wants to exercise pressure on Azerbaijan by bringing this to the agenda on all international platforms. On the other hand, once a constructive dialogue is offered to Armenia, Armenia unreasonably avoids it, the minister underscored.




Follow that one-shoed man (Thursday, March 1, 1973)

The trail of a one-shoed man left Morganton police officers marveling following two break-in attempts early Wednesday morning.

Two Marion men were arrested and charged with the attempted breaking and entering of the Romarco factory and the Carbon City Factory Outlet.

Officers responding to the break-in at Romarco found the lock on the main door forced open and telephone and alarm wires cut. They found tracks outside that indicated someone had left the building wearing only one shoe. They later found the one-shoed suspect using a telephone booth at the Citgo service station at the intersection of Jamestown Road and Interstate 40. Officers noted that the bottom of the mans pants were wet, and his feet were muddy.

With the assistance of a bloodhound, police located the suspects missing shoe along a trail through the woods that led over rough terrain. Officers determined that he had been a mere inch away from stepping on a board with three large spikes sticking out of it as he attempted to flee.

They would have had to pry his foot off with a crowbar if he had stepped on it, one officer said.

Bandits hold up Drexel service station owner (Thursday, March 1, 1973)

Marvin Garrison, operator of Garrisons Service Station on Baxter Street in Drexel, thought the two men who drove up in a 1956 Ford Wednesday afternoon and asked for an inspection looked suspicious, so he hid his wallet, which reportedly contained several hundred dollars.

Following the inspection, the two men allegedly pulled a revolver on Garrison and took approximately $10 from his pockets. They did not find the wallet. Garrison said the men then forced him to go to his house, where he waited for 45 minutes until calling the police.

Town loses beloved matriarch (Monday, Feb. 26, 1973)

Funeral services were held Sunday for Suzanne Pascal Pons, 98, of Valdese. She was part of the original group of Waldensians who founded the town of Valdese in 1893 and was often referred to as the grand old lady of Valdese.

Pons was born June 25, 1874, in the Waldensian Valleys in Italy. Her father, Jean Pascal, was killed when he was struck by lightning in the Cottian Alps. Her mother, Susanne Pascal, took Pons and three of her siblings to join the group of Waldensians who emigrated from Italy to the US to settle in Valdese.

Pons obituary notes that as well as her own contributions to the Valdese community, the area owes much to the work of her sons in developing industries and businesses in both Valdese and Morganton.

Big crowd tours new school (Monday, Feb. 26, 1973)

Hundreds of people descended on Freedom High School during open house events held Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

This was the first general opening to the public, although many interested citizens and students have visited the new comprehensive high school at some stage of construction.

School staff members, on hand at the open house events to answer questions and show visitors around, said they were unprepared for the size of the crowds. It was expected that maybe a couple hundred people would show up to each event, but the open houses each drew an estimated 500-600 people.

Im delighted they came, said Dr. Charles Weaver, superintendent of Burke County Public Schools.

Among us Morgantonians: J. Gordon Queen (Tuesday, Feb. 27, 1973)

Come to think of it, we are glad a number of Morganton store fronts have been facelifted, either by paint, face brick or stucco, but folks, we need more to make Morganton a beautiful city  right? Right!

With that new addition, Lazarus is a really big store, bigger than heretofore, that is.

Jim Ingle, head of the South Forest subdivision, is a firm believer that Morganton will grow whether we like it or not and is doing something about it by building the multitude of pretty homes on and off what is known as Bethel Road. The more the merrier.

Believe it or not, it is only a short while until the Fourth of July. Lets make our parade bigger, better and grander than ever this year. What say you?
Anna C.E. Crowley was Buttes first charted Christian Science practitioner, beginning in 1893 from her home at 114 S. California Street where church services were also held. Buttes Christian Scientists were vilified and denounced from the start by the medical and religious establishment as well as in the courts.

The Butte Ministerial Association went after them with a sharp stick, calling them fakers and faith healers, seeking to keep them from imposing on gullible and ignorant people. R.H. Maloney was arrested for practicing medicine without a license. The court case of bookkeeper William Spaford, 501 West Quartz Street, sent him to the asylum at Warm Springs to be given a rest from the brain worries he recently suffered in his efforts to comprehend the nothingness of Christian Science.

Most of the cases went nowhere; Spaford returned soon to his job as a clerk for the Great Northern Railway.

Nonetheless, the First Church of Christ, Scientist, attracted many followers across the country and in Butte. By 1896, Widow Crowley moved the offices and rooms of the organization to the Columbia Block at 26 West Broadway, where treatments and testimonial meetings were held and where students were trained.

Church services were held in borrowed facilities ranging from the Damon Hall at 34 North Main to the Congregational Church across the street from the Court House (gone today), and in the Womens Club Building at Park and Columbia (Clark Street today). In 1911 the Christian Science Reading Room was located on the fourth floor of the Phoenix Building on Park Street, while services were held at the Unitarian Auditorium, the former home of Butte merchant M.J. Connell at 301 W Granite.

A second church began in 1898, meeting in the apartment of Annie German, wife of Dentist Edward German, upstairs at 114 North Main. In 1912, multiple Butte congregations, not always unified in their approach, came together as the First Church of Christ, Scientist, with 200 members.

Founder Anna Crowley was closely associated with the church in New York City, where in 1907 she was censured for failing to furnish legitimate medical attention in the pneumonia death of Corinne McBride. In 1909 Crowley was involved in a schism between the Mother Church in Boston and the New York City church, and was not considered to be a member of any Christian Science church in Montana. By 1916 she had left Butte for New York.

The united church in Butte purchased and began meeting in a brick house at Montana and Quartz Streets about 1914, but their success and expanding congregation led them to demolish it and to build a new church on that site in 1920 at a cost of almost $100,000, all local money. The Neoclassical building that stands there today was designed by Butte architect Walter Arnold and holds a large open auditorium seating more than 400.
BLACKFEET INDIAN RESERVATION  When Jeff Laursen and Gerald Buzz Cobell looked down at the dead buffalo, they saw two very different things.

As the half-ton, scraggly-haired bull lay on its side, bleeding from a bullet to the neck, its eyes closed.

Laursen, a hunter from Victor, marveled at his biggest kill. Before this, his largest bounty had been a deer. A heavy buck might weigh 160 pounds  about one-twelfth the size of a heavy bison bull, which can weigh more than 2,000 pounds. For Laursen to get a photo with the bison, it took six people to roll the carcass upright. The meat would feed his family for a year  and then some.

Looking at the same buffalo, Cobell, director of Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife, saw opportunity. The tribe has sold occasional bison hunts to interested individuals, but this hunt marked the first time a tribe in Montana opened a raffle bison hunt to the public.

In partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, the Blackfeet Nation invited members of the public to enter two trophy bison hunt raffles. People could buy 20 tickets maximum at $10 apiece, and the winner had to pay $2,500 to secure the spot. Laursen won the first Blackfeet hunt. The second winner has not yet been chosen.

For Cobell and the Blackfeet Buffalo Program, the hunt represented new efforts to build trust with outside communities and organizations. It symbolized a new phase in the tribes bison management strategy and, above all, it affirmed the ways in which bison continue to help Native communities thrive.

Cobell needed the day to go well, and it was already off to a good start. Laursen had killed the animal with a single shot.

The Blackfeet Nation has at least 700 bison in its herd. In the winter, the animals roam on a nearly 10,000-acre pasture near the Two Medicine River in the southeast end of the reservation. The towering, snow-covered peaks of the Rocky Mountain Front loom over the flat, bare-grassed pasture.

Winter weather on the reservation is unpredictable and extreme, with winds strong enough to tip semi-trucks and temperatures low enough to close schools, tribal offices and highways. But Laursen's hunt fell on a sunny, 10-degree morning in February, which by the standards of those living on the reservation was considered mild.

Chaz Racine, who works for the Blackfeet Buffalo Program, congratulated Laursen on his kill.

Thats a once-in-a-lifetime deal, Racine said.

Laursen patted the buffalo hump and smiled. He couldnt believe hed won the raffle.

How on earth did our people do this?

Laursen and his friend Frank Kennedy began skinning the buffalo, with help from others at the Blackfeet Buffalo Program.

Feel this, Laursen said, gesturing to the bisons tough, 2-inch-thick hide and gnarled hair. As Laursen and his friend cut through the skin, their knives dulled. They took breaks to stretch their cramping hands, opening and closing their fists.

Kqyn Kuka, who is Blackfeet and the tribal liaison and diversity coordinator for FWP, watched.

When I see this stuff, I just think, How on earth did our people do this? she said. I just cant imagine. They had to go down by the water to clean (the buffalo). Think about how cold that river water is. And what about clothes? Were in boots, but what were they wearing?

Where the Blackfeet once killed bison with a bow and arrow and used stone tools to skin and clean the animal, in this hunt, Laursen and his friend used steel knives and an electric bone saw to quarter the bison. The Blackfeet Buffalo Program brought a forklift to hang the animal, allowing gravity to spur the process.

Thats what you call the royal treatment, Cobell said, as the forklift raised the half-skinned buffalo 10 feet in the air.

Even with modern tools and extra help, it took the group all morning to clean the animal.

Since time immemorial, Native Americans used buffalo for food, shelter, tools, clothing, jewelry and ceremony. Buffalo and Native people were so connected that biologists say the two mammals co-evolved.

But in the 19th century, settlers and U.S. soldiers killed millions of bison to devastate the tribal communities that relied on them. Ungulate diseases spread by domestic cattle are suspected for killing herds the hunters didnt reach.

From 1820 to 1880, the bison population fell from around 30 to 60 million to fewer than 1,000. Some estimate that only 300 bison survived whats now known as the Great Slaughter.

As the bison population declined, some states and the federal government passed laws to protect the animals. By the late 19th century, hundreds of bison occupied Yellowstone National Park.

Today, through partnerships with national parks, and organizations like the Intertribal Buffalo Council, bison have returned to tribal lands nationwide. Most tribes in Montana maintain their own herds.

Tribal bison hunts

While hunting may look different now than in the 19th century, buffalo still play a critical role in the Blackfeet community.

The Blackfeet Buffalo Program distributes buffalo meat  which is leaner than beef  to elders, members with health problems and food banks. The program donates bison to the immersion school or others who want to use it for ceremony. And the tribe regularly sells its own buffalo meat at the Glacier Family Foods grocery store in Browning at $7.99 a pound, so community members can afford it.

Ervin Carlson, Buffalo Program manager, said the program pays about $400 per animal to process and distribute bison meat. This year, he said the program plans to harvest about 20 buffalo for community distribution, which will cost the program at least $8,000.

Cobell said the tribe this year held 12 tribal member bison hunts, two elder hunts (which are free) and four hunts open to descendants. Tribal members who are selected dont need to pay for a tag to hunt on their own reservation.

While these opportunities are important for community members culturally and otherwise, Cobell said they don't generate a lot of revenue. Sometimes, the Buffalo Program simply breaks even on tribal hunts.

Were an economically depressed people, he said. Research suggests that a lack of employment opportunities, decades of oppressive federal policies and historical trauma have contributed to tribal communities disparate poverty rates. The median household income on the Blackfeet Reservation is $36,447  about half that of the national average, which is nearly $71,000.

Opportunity to restore trust

Raffle hunts open to all, including non-tribal members and people who live out of state, support the program's on-reservation activities.

But the idea can be controversial, given the history of settlers killing bison to starve Native people. When asked how the Blackfeet community responded to a bison hunt open to the public, Cobell said, It depends who you ask.

Most are OK with it, he said. Because the Buffalo Program offers several hunts for tribal members, the public raffle doesnt take opportunities away from the community.

Carlson, manager of the program, said he hadnt received much pushback regarding the public hunt. But if it becomes more frequent, he expects to field some criticism.

The thing is, the tribes are strapped for dollars, he said. And we need to think of ways for our programs to be self-sufficient. This helps us be able to pay to process meat that we provide for our members.

Carlson said the public raffle opportunity was also important in building relationships with agencies and people who operate in the outside  beyond the reservation.

The tribe partnered with FWP to put on the raffle, and the hunt by design invites non-Native hunters who may not be familiar with the tribe onto the reservation.

The big thing for me is that people can see our tribe and see that we can work with people, he said. It builds good working relationships with people. And it lets them know that on our lands, were good to work with.

Kuka, who is the first tribal liaison and diversity coordinator for FWP, said past conflicts between the agency and tribes have led to distrust. In her new position, Kukas main priority is to work with tribes to foster better working relationships.

As part of the arrangement, FWP helped promote the raffle hunt on its website and social media pages. The agency also helped administer the raffle and pick a winner.

FWPs involvement provided an antidote for some hunters distrust. Laursen said hed heard about the hunt because his wife saw a post on Facebook about it.

I went to the FWP website because I wasnt sure if it was real, he said, adding that he doesnt believe everything he sees on social media. When Laursen saw FWP had a role in the hunt, he knew it was legitimate, and he entered.

Cobell said the first bison hunt raffle open to the public earned $55,000  more than he had anticipated. The tribe is holding a second raffle hunt, which has raised at least $20,000 so far.

Carlson called the raffle opportunity a good deal for hunters. He said as the tribes herd continues to grow, hes been approached by people who want to pay to hunt on the reservation.

If they come as individuals and buy a hunt from us, theyd pay a lot more, he said.

The Buffalo Program charges $3,500 minimum for a hunt, so Carlson called the raffle opportunity a win-win. The lottery offers a hunt at a lower price and generates substantial revenue for the program.

Carlson said the Buffalo Program will use the money from the raffle to strengthen fencing and buy hay for the animals. The revenue will also help fund the tribal member hunts and meat distribution efforts in the community.

The Blackfeet Buffalo Program, which manages and maintains the herd, is primarily funded through grants and supported by partnerships with other organizations. Financial support from the tribe is inconsistent, so Carlson said the extra $75,000 from both raffle hunts and counting will go a long way.

The long-term goal is always to provide more land to these animals and to increase the size of our herd so we can take care of our people, he said. Buffalo can still help take care of us, just as they did before, like with this hunt.
A doctor found cysts in Lilia Becerrils right breast five years ago, but the 51-year-old lacks health insurance. She said she cant afford the imaging to find out if theyre cancerous.

Becerril earns about $52,000 a year at a nonprofit in Californias Central Valley, putting her and her husband, Armando, at more than double the limit to qualify for Medi-Cal, the states Medicaid program for people with low incomes and disabilities. Private insurance would cost $1,230 a month in premiums, money needed for their mortgage.

Weve been resorting to home remedies to get through the pain, Becerril said through a Spanish translator. Her husband has needed hernia surgery for 20 years. Its frustrating because we pay our taxes, but we cant reap any of the benefits of where our taxes are going, she added.

While many Californians who earn too much to be eligible for Medi-Cal can get subsidized coverage through Covered California, an estimated 460,000 residents arent allowed to buy insurance through state-run insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act because they lack legal status. One Democratic lawmaker says its a small but glaring gap and is crafting a bill that could test Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsoms commitment to reach universal health care.

Were going to need to figure out how to provide universal coverage for all who call this state home, said the bills author, Assembly member Joaquin Arambula. Its an area our state has not leaned into enough, to provide coverage for those who are undocumented.

Arambulas bill would direct the state to ask the federal government to allow immigrants living in the state without authorization to get insurance through Covered California. Arambula sees the move as the critical first step to expand coverage. If approved, the Fresno lawmaker intends to push for state subsidies to help pay for insurance.

Both elements are essential for immigrants lacking legal status, said Jose Torres Casillas, a policy and legislative advocate with Health Access California, a consumer health group working with Arambulas office on the measure.

Access is one thing, but affordability is another, Torres Casillas said.

Since taking office in 2019, Newsom has approved expanding Medi-Cal to all qualified residents regardless of immigration status. In doing so, the politician continuously rumored to be preparing for a presidential bid described the state as moving one step closer toward universal health care. But in January, Newsom announced a $22.5 billion state deficit and made no mention of new proposals for the states estimated 3 million uninsured residents.

Newsoms health secretary, Dr. Mark Ghaly, acknowledged the pressure to go further but he would not commit to a timeline.

Up until now weve had so many other things to focus on, Ghaly said. This will become, frankly speaking, one of the most important next issues that we take on.

California needs permission from the federal government to open Covered California to immigrants without legal residency because it is currently closed to them, and Arambula said he is in talks with Newsom administration officials about how to structure the bill.

Once the federal government opens Covered California up to all migrants, the state could set aside funding for subsidies. About 90% of enrollees in Covered California qualify for financial assistance, which is paid for with both state and federal funds. Since 2020, the state has spent $20 million a year on those subsidies, a fraction of the cost, because Congress has given states an infusion of money during the pandemic.

Previously, lawmakers had allocated roughly $300 million to lower insurance premiums for Covered California enrollees. Any financial assistance to people living in the state without authorization would likely have to come from state funds, and the costs could vary widely.

For instance, Colorado enrolled 10,000 such immigrants into a new insurance program designed solely for them at a cost of $57.8 million in state funds, said Adam Fox, deputy director of the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative. The program covered the full cost of insurance for enrollees.

In Washington state, immigrants who lack legal status can take advantage of a state fund next year to help all income-eligible state residents pay for insurance, said Michael Marchand, chief marketing officer for the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. State lawmakers have added $5 million to the fund for immigrants without legal authorization.

It would serve as an incentive for additional undocumented immigration into our country, said Sally Pipes, president and CEO of the Pacific Research Institute, a think tank that advocated against Medi-Cal expansion to immigrants without legal standing. And put taxpayers on the hook for additional government health care costs and the inevitable higher tax bills to pay for them.

California officials have previously considered allowing all immigrants to buy insurance from its state-run program before, submitting a request to the federal government in 2016. But the state rescinded its application after President Donald Trump took office, given his anti-immigration rhetoric and policies.

The Biden administration in December approved an exception to federal law for Washington state  a game changer in the eyes of immigration advocates, said Rachel Linn Gish, a spokesperson for Health Access.

Seeing what other states have done and the waivers that are happening under Biden, it makes a huge difference in our approach, she said.

But even if lawmakers pass a plan to open Californias insurance marketplace to all immigrants regardless of status, advocates said the state will have to wait until Jan. 1, 2024, to ask the federal government for permission, and it could take half a year or longer to get a response.

That means it could be years before Becerril can get coverage. Instead, shes preparing for the worst.

Im paying for funeral coverage, she said. Its more economical than paying the health coverage premium.

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

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Letters to the Editor is a periodic feature. We welcome all comments and will publish a selection. We edit for length and clarity and require full names.

How Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners Enhance Health Care

The story of one patients ER experience does not at all capture the complexities of an emergency department serving the needs of a stochastic patient population.

Given the reach of KHN, it is disappointing to read stories that inch closer to tabloid-level reporting (Doctors Are Disappearing From Emergency Rooms as Hospitals Look to Cut Costs, Feb. 13).

Having spent most of my career working in and operationalizing emergency departments, I can assure you that there are plenty of opportunities to optimize the delivery of care and reduce unnecessary waste and cost while maintaining excellent outcomes. The salient point that you make its all about the money is too simplistic given the complexities.

Advanced practice providers (APPs) collectively describe nurse practitioners (NPs), physician assistants (PAs), certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs), and certified nurse midwives (CNMs). The term midlevel practitioner is outdated.

The archaic paternalistic approach to health care has long been overdue for change. Post-pandemic, it is critical to pivot from the way it has always been done, and that includes embracing new models of care.

Physicians and APPs provide excellent care to their patients and operate with different scopes of practice, training, and licensure. Therefore, most of us find working together in team-based models to be highly effective in ensuring that patients see the right care provider for the right health problem.

I found this reporting to be superficial and even offensive to nurse practitioners, like myself, who provide just as high quality care to patients as our physician colleagues.

I welcome the opportunity for dialogue about the value of nurse practitioners and physician assistants.

 Cindi Warburton, Spokane, Washington

Idiot corporate vermin strikes again, decides that this makes perfect sense, because if there is one job unnecessary in a hospital emergency room then it would have to be doctor https://t.co/qdcZcPqAef  Mark Williams (@TalkerMark) February 16, 2023

 Mark Williams, Sacramento, California

I heard your NPR-partnered story on emergency rooms being managed by private equity and using fewer doctors and more nurse practitioners and physician assistants as midlevel practitioners.

But I prefer midlevel practitioners and medical residents, if their skills are relevant to me. They tend to be more careful in telling me what I should know and in entering records.

The professionally senior doctors (by years of experience and specialty, but I dont know about board certification) tend to use record-keeping to support higher insurance reimbursement and then they dont seem to believe what anyone else writes in the records, or dont bother looking. Furthermore, theyre less likely to tell me what circumstances should prompt me to seek out a doctor or an ER, but if anything goes so wrong or becomes so advanced that I need even more care, theyre happy to provide it.

Doctors often categorically object to nurse practitioners, and state regulations reflect that.

 Nick Levinson, Brooklyn, New York

Yeah- there definitely needs to be our vision of the alternative healthcare system, otherwise, this will continue until you have a probe for your mouth, and one for your rectum just like in #Idiocracy. https://t.co/uX2KYbpD0V  Dr. Lynn Fynn-derella (@Fynnderella1) February 17, 2023

The recent KHN article Doctors Are Disappearing From Emergency Rooms as Hospitals Look to Cut Costs failed to address a critical consideration in the complexities of health care delivery today: the challenge of providing care to patients when they need it at a time when demand for care is on the rise, and the health care workforce is experiencing staggering levels of decline.

Today, 99 million Americans lack adequate access to primary care. By 2026, there will be a shortage of up to 3.2 million health care workers. As a physician associate/physician assistant for more than 20 years, I am kept up at night because of this perfect storm on the horizon  worried for my patients and their ability to access the care they need. Timely access to a trusted and qualified health care provider is never more pressing than during an emergency, when patients are at their most vulnerable, and delay in care can be a matter of life or death.

There is no easy answer to this impending workforce crisis, but one thing is clear: We can meet patient needs only if every member of todays health care team is respected for the contributions they bring and can practice to the fullest extent of their education and training.

The fact is, without PAs, patients access to care would suffer. PAs account for more than 500 million patient visits each year. For many patients, PAs serve as primary care providers. And in some communities, PAs are the only health care providers. Lets not lose sight of the countless stories we have all read in the media about community hospitals and clinics closing.

This article failed to take into account any research that shows the value and quality of PA-delivered care. For example, a 2021 study published by PLOS ONE looked at 39 studies across North America, Europe, and Africa between 1977 and 2021. In 33 of the 39 studies, researchers found care provided by a PA was comparable or better than care delivered by a physician. In 74% of the studies, resource and labor costs were lower when care was delivered by a PA versus a physician.

The quality of PA-delivered care can also be seen when looking at the ratio of liability claims. The ratio of claims to PAs averaged one claim for every 550 PAs. Compare this to the physician ratio, which averaged 1 claim for every 80 physicians.

Hiring PAs to practice in emergency medicine is not about replacing physicians, nor does it diminish the quality of care. Utilizing PAs in emergency medicine is about equipping health care teams with a wide range of highly educated and trained clinicians who can work together to ensure patients get the safe, high-quality care they need.

Let us stay focused on the reason why PAs, nurse practitioners, and physicians went into medicine in the first place: to care for people! Patient-centered, team-based care is about every single one of us contributing our knowledge, experience, and expertise to ensure the best outcomes for patients.

 Jennifer M. Orozco, American Academy of Physician Associates president and board chair, Chicago

What could possibly go wrong when you take doctors out of the ED? Well if the effects of other private equity-owned healthcare organizations are a bellwether then nothing goodhttps://t.co/vhoPQRQTxD  Whitney Schmucker- MPH, MBA (@WhitSchmucky) February 13, 2023

 Whitney Schmucker, New York City

KHN should not be using the term midlevel providers. Its a derogatory term used by doctors to belittle advanced practice providers (nurse practitioners and physician associates).

 Danielle Franklin, Minneapolis

.@_Eric_Reinhart, @donberwick,@suhas_gondi and @sanjaykishore31 have talked about greed in American medicine. A case in point. Doctors Are Disappearing From Emergency Rooms as Hospitals Look to Cut Costs  Kaiser Health News https://t.co/QlqdPmssU8  Gregg Gonsalves (@gregggonsalves) February 13, 2023

 Gregg Gonsalves, New Haven, Connecticut

Nurse practitioners are essential providers in our nations current and future health care system. In an effort to highlight concerns related to health facility ownership models, the recent article Doctors Are Disappearing From Emergency Rooms as Hospitals Look to Cut Costs incorrectly represents the care provided by NPs in emergency rooms.

In fact, a recent study examining advanced practice providers (APPs), including NPs, in the ER found increasing APP coverage had no impact on flow, safety, or patient experiences in the emergency department. Additional research concluded that after controlling for patient severity and complexity, APPs diagnostic testing and hospitalization rates did not differ from physicians in patients presenting to the emergency department with chest and abdominal pain.

Prepared at the masters or doctoral level, NPs provide primary, acute, chronic, and specialty care to patients of all ages and backgrounds. NPs practice in nearly every health care setting including hospitals, clinics, Veterans Health Administration and Indian Health Service facilities, emergency rooms, urgent care sites, private physician or NP practices, skilled nursing facilities and nursing facilities, schools, colleges and universities, retail clinics, public health departments, nurse-managed clinics, homeless clinics, and home health care settings. Collectively, NPs deliver high-quality care in more than 1 billion patient visits each year.

Grounded in 50 years of research and evidence-based practice, NPs deliver high-quality care, consistent with their physician counterparts. Results from a study of over 800,000 patients at 530 Veterans Affairs facilities found that patients assigned to NP primary care providers were less likely to utilize additional services, had no difference in costs, and experienced similar chronic disease management compared with physician-assigned patients. Furthermore, a comprehensive summary of studies examining NP quality of care from the American Enterprise Institute underscores the benefits of NP-led care.

Today, NPs represent 355,000 solutions to our nations health care needs. Patients deserve access to these high-quality health care providers wherever they seek care.

 April N. Kapu, president of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Austin, Texas

If you like seeing an actual doctor when you go to the hospital now is the time to speak up! https://t.co/417fm2JKsg  Sarabeth Broder-Fingert MD, MPH (@sbroderfingert) February 14, 2023

 Dr. Sarabeth Broder-Fingert, Boston

Ophthalmologists and Optometrists Arent Interchangeable

Increasing Americans access to care is critical. However, loosening the scope of practice for certain types of care can be counterproductive and potentially risky for patients (Montana Considers Allowing Physician Assistants to Practice Independently, Feb.10).

A small handful of states, for example, have loosened scope-of-practice laws for laser eye surgery, which, if done incorrectly, could lead to serious complications that can damage a persons vision. Over the course of their medical school education, internships, and residencies, ophthalmologists must complete thousands of hours of training before being allowed to perform laser eye surgeries on their own.

Unfortunately, some states permit optometrists, who are not medical doctors, to perform laser eye surgeries as long as they complete a 16- to 32-hour course. As one might expect, the likelihood of a patient needing additional surgery is significantly higher  more than double  when initial surgeries are performed by an optometrist instead of an ophthalmologist. It is little wonder, then, why states like California have successfully blocked efforts to loosen the scope of practice for laser eye surgery.

Despite the potential risks, and no evidence of documented access issues, the Department of Veterans Affairs updated its community care guidelines last year to allow optometrists in this small number of states to perform laser eye surgery on veterans in community care settings. Worse still, the VA is developing its National Standards of Practice, which many fear would let optometrists in VA facilities nationwide perform laser eye surgery on Americas veterans. To defend our veterans and prevent them from suffering adverse outcomes, it is critical for the VA to maintain patient protections that ensure only medical doctors with the requisite education and training can perform invasive eye surgeries.

Ophthalmologists and optometrists both play important roles in a patients collaborative care team, but their duties and skill sets are not interchangeable. Loosening the scope of practice for laser eye surgeries will not serve patients well. Our veterans defended us; now the VA must protect them.

 Dr. Daniel J. Briceland, president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Sun City West, Arizona

More competition is the answer to much of what ails the U.S. healthcare system. https://t.co/uc168WUdFS  David Johnson (@4sighthealth_) February 20, 2023

 David Johnson, Chicago

We were disappointed that the article by Keely Larson about Montanas consideration of a change in physician assistant regulation failed to note that the vast majority of research on the quality of care provided by physician assistants and nurse practitioners demonstrates that they have similar quality of care to physicians when practicing in their area of expertise. There are numerous literature reviews published in peer-reviewed journals on this topic, which should have been noted in the story. The author selected a single working paper that focuses on quality of care in emergency departments in a single health system (the Department of Veterans Affairs) that is not representative of the settings in which most physician assistants and nurse practitioners work. The individual cited, Dr. Yiqun Chen, extrapolated her working paper to the entire profession of physician assistants (who were not included in her study), which is a significant overreach.

We are accustomed to KHN stories being well researched and balanced. This story missed the mark and does not reflect well on the quality KHN aims to achieve.

 Joanne Spetz, Janet Coffman, and Ulrike Muench, the University of California-San Francisco

Since the pandemic, we have lost 300k workers in nursing homes, putting patients at risk. We need more young people to go into nursing and need to adjust immigration laws to allow foreign trained nurses to legally seek employment in the USA.Read more: https://t.co/j67QFxKO9v  Dr. Mehmet Oz (@DrOz) February 4, 2023

 Dr. Mehmet Oz, Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania

At the Crux of Nursing Home Staffing Crunch: Compensation

I doubt it is possible to staff nursing facilities with qualified and caring staff when the compensation is quite poor and the work environment is very challenging (Wave of Rural Nursing Home Closures Grows Amid Staffing Crunch, Jan. 25). It is more a system problem than a staffing problem and will not get fixed without some serious changes.

 Dr. Jack Page, Durham, North Carolina

"Microgrants"  small amounts of funding typically given to community organizations  are a great way to increase reach of public health departments and increase vaccine uptake, as seen in this example of immigrant communities in Colorado.https://t.co/PxpD23qZpY  Benjy Renton (@bhrenton) February 14, 2023

 Benjy Renton, Washington, D.C.

Participating in the Mental Illness Stigma

I wonder what is behind the pressure to persuade us to say there is a stigma to mental health issues (Public Health Agencies Turn to Locals to Extend Reach Into Immigrant Communities, Feb. 10)? I wonder why we so easily comply?

 Harold A. Maio, retired mental health editor, Fort Myers, Florida

 Andrzej Klimczuk, Bialystok, Poland

Remote Fitness Must Not Replace the Value of Physical Therapy

If weve learned anything in recent years, its how vital technology is in allowing us to stay connected virtually, especially when it comes to health care. However, the online world cannot safely and adequately replace everything.

The recent article Rural Seniors Benefit From Pandemic-Driven Remote Fitness Boom (Jan.17) details how many older Americans living in rural areas rely on virtual fitness classes to remain physically active. While this is an important and effective option for some seniors, remote fitness classes cannot and should not replace clinically directed physical therapy.

Physical therapy helps patients remain strong and independent by managing pain, preventing injury, and improving mobility, flexibility, and balance under the supervision of a professionally trained physical therapist. Its especially important at a time when senior deaths from falls are on the rise. Evidence shows that when seniors underwent an exercise intervention from a trained health care professional, it lowered their risk of a fall by 31%.

Not only is it effective in rehabilitating patients, but it is also an affordable, lower-cost alternative to invasive surgeries and pharmacological treatments, saving our health care system millions. And now, with the emergence of remote therapeutic monitoring, physical therapists can more easily reach patients in rural communities to ensure they are reaching their clinical goals through safe, at-home therapy exercises.

Physical therapists undergo years of education and training to provide the best, safest care for their patients. And while I applaud seniors for embracing online fitness classes and staying active, I also encourage them to recognize when clinically supervised physical therapy is needed to protect their safety and health.

 Nikesh Patel, executive director of the Alliance for Physical Therapy Quality and Innovation (APTQI), Washington, D.C.

The last volley before the storm comes ashore. RADV awaits.https://t.co/oaryjjRA8N  Eric Weinhandl (@eric_weinhandl) January 27, 2023

 Eric Weinhandl, Victoria, Minnesota

Tallying Bad Pennies

Did Your Health Plan Rip Off Medicare? (Jan. 27) was a highly misleading article. On a per-enrollee per-year basis, over- and under-payments amounted to literally pennies. If you must pile on, focus on the few bad apples.

 Jon M. Kingsdale, Boston

Unbelievable. This exact same thing is happening to me right now. After an emergency c-section at 29 weeks, followed by 7 weeks in the NICU, I have spent the last 6 months fighting over the bill. https://t.co/t4O69C8v6V  Inger BurnettZeigler (@ibzpsychphd) February 2, 2023

 Inger Burnett-Zeigler, Chicago

How Much Did They Know and When Did They Know It?

Great story by Harris Meyer about Prentice and Lurie hospitals (A Baby Spent 36 Days in an In-Network NICU. Why Did the Hospital Next Door Send a Bill? Jan. 30). I was practicing as an anesthesiologist in Illinois in 2011 when the bill became law banning out-of-network balance billing for hospital-based docs. Of course we knew about the advent of the law: We had to enter into contracts to be in network, contracts that materially reduced all our doctors incomes!

It is impossible for me to believe that a professional operating a billing service in 2020 for Ann & Robert H. Lurie Childrens Hospital of Chicago didnt know about this 2011 law. I dont believe them for a moment.

Thanks for the great article.

 Ron Meyer, Wilmette, Illinois

#covid19 First and foremost  have a plan for when you test positive. And if older or have preexisting conditions, get Paxlovid (unless contraindicated). Older adults represent nearly 90% of U.S. deaths from covid-19 in recent monthttps://t.co/Dip9rzgEY0 https://t.co/SLZho2p3TK  Regina Phelps  (@ReginaPhelps) January 18, 2023

 Regina Phelps, San Francisco

Leaving a Bad Taste in My Mouth

In every article Ive read about Paxlovid, including yours (What Older Americans Need to Know About Taking Paxlovid, Dec. 18), not one mentions the horrible metallic taste these pills have. I was prescribed Paxlovid after contracting covid-19. Im 71 years old. Its beyond my reasoning that in this day and age a pharmaceutical manufacturer cant put a neutral coating on the pills. This awful taste stays with you day and night for the five days of use. I even had a friend who had to stop taking them as she was losing sleep over the horrible taste. My reference to friends is: Its like sucking on a wrench. Im sure this issue isnt confined to us seniors, but it would be nice to read some recognition of a problem with this medication.

By the way, my workaround, which definitely helps but is hardly a solution, is to swallow the pills down with a swig of cranberry juice.

 Don Dugan, Brookfield, Wisconsin

In North Carolina, more people are training to support patients through an abortion  In the months since Roe v. Wade was overturned, training groups in North Carolina say they've seen an uptick in interest from people wanting to work as abortion doulas. https://t.co/NMJR2df1Ol  Olav Mitchell Underdal (@omunderdal) December 19, 2022

 Olav Mitchell Underdal, Irvine, California

Admiration for Abortion Doulas

I admire and respect individuals willing to provide aid and comfort to others who are going through either the traditional birth process or a hard decision to end a pregnancy (In North Carolina, More People Are Training to Support Patients Through an Abortion, Jan. 5). Kudos to news groups for increasing awareness of individuals and organizations providing valuable services for their fellow citizens.

 Michael Walker, Black Mountain, North Carolina

When someone learns theyre pregnant, they should have access to #MaternalHealth services. After all, healthy babies start with healthy pregnancies. This personal account from @K_Hought shares why we must remain dedicated to improving care for everyone. https://t.co/n1JkPlIJ6O  Darrell Gray, II, MD, MPH, FACG (@DMGrayMD) January 20, 2023

 Dr. Darrell Gray II, Owings Mills, Maryland

Thinking Outside the Traditional Medicine Box

Katheryn Houghton missed out on sharing info on traditional methods, especially acupuncture (Why People Who Experience Severe Nausea During Pregnancy Often Go Untreated, Jan. 13). Also ginger, as in ginger tea, and peppermint. Peppermint oil (sniffed) or tea. I am an advocate for people with cancer.

 Ann Fonfa, founder of the Annie Appleseed Project, Delray Beach, Florida

Nausea is common in the first trimester but some women experience symptoms that linger and require medical attention, but often go untreated. @K_Hought reports on asepct of #pregnancy too often ignored. #WomensHealth https://t.co/zYEu0G6bHC via @khnews  Catherine Arnst (@cathyarnst) January 16, 2023

 Catherine Arnst, New York City

A Cartoon Blooper?

The Gender reveal? political cartoon (Feb. 14) was confusing, unfunny, and inaccurate. How is this political? (It isnt.) What makes gender reveals funny? (Theyre not.) Most importantly, such reveals  an anachronistic cultural tradition that should be done away with anyway  are sex reveals, not gender reveals. (Biology is based on anatomy at birth, while gender is self-determined later in life and is fluid over time.) Even sex reveals are problematic, as they assume two biological sexes. (Some estimates indicate nearly 2% of individuals are born intersex, with their sexual anatomy not fitting into categories of either female or male.)

With anti-trans and anti-drag queen legislation being proposed and codified seemingly daily, now is not the time to poke fun at, nor inaccurately represent, the construct of gender. (Its never the time.)

 Steff Du Bois, licensed clinical psychologist, Chicago

NEW: The KHN Health Minute this week looks at how the end of the public health emergency will affect pricing for covid tests and treatments, and issues a warning about kids getting into marijuana edibles. https://t.co/5iP5gQLcVB  Kaiser Health News (@KHNews) February 21, 2023

Keeping Marijuana Candy Away From Children

As an emergency room doctor, I was disappointed by the recent KHN Health Minute story trivializing a growing public health risk by suggesting parents lock up their marijuana gummies to avoid poisoning their children (Listen to the Latest KHN Health Minute, Feb. 16).

For background on why I, and other doctors, are concerned, I encourage you to read Marijuana Candy: Poisoning and Lack of Protection for Children.

 Dr. Roneet Lev, San Diego

An excellent discussion, led by @jrovner, of the repercussions in #healthcare from the current political maneuvering in DC. Practice leaders feel in limbo, unsure how to plan. The potential impact on patients is worse, if they lose access to local care. https://t.co/YcW2bX9vhA  Halee Fischer-Wright (@DrHalee) February 9, 2023

 Halee Fischer-Wright, Denver

A Suggestion for Extra-Credit Reading

In response to the recent What the Health? podcast episode As US Bumps Against Debt Ceiling, Medicare Becomes a Bargaining Chip (Jan. 19), please have Julie Rovner read Stephanie Keltons book The Deficit Myth. She needs to understand why taxes pay for nothing. I consider Keltons book the most important on economics and how government budgets and financing work in the modern world.

 Mark Schaffer, Las Vegas

From investing in nursing schools to continuing the support of visa waivers for #clinicians in medically underserved areas, Congress needs to act & fix the ongoing workforce shortage in #healthcare. I REALLY want to believe both parties can hash this outhttps://t.co/zvIEjSrrvl  Iqbal Atcha RPh, MBA, SPHR, RACR (@IqbalAtcha1) February 21, 2023

 Iqbal Atcha, Hanover Park, Illinois

Investing in Practice-Ready Nurses to Bolster Workforce

The Connecticut Center for Nursing Workforce Inc. has created a best-practice plan to address these issues (Senators Say Health Worker Shortages Ripe for Bipartisan Compromise, Feb. 17). As nursing is the largest health care workforce role and a critical infrastructure within the state, nurses are a significant contributor to the fiscal, physical, and mental health of Connecticut, and a profession that can provide economic stability to its workers and families. Over 10,000 qualified nursing students were denied admission to registered nursing programs in 2021 due to full-time and part-time faculty shortages, lack of student clinical placements, and capacity of capstone experiences in specialty areas.

To produce practice-ready nurses, investment needs to be made in increasing the number of nursing faculty lines, both full-time (classroom) and part-time (clinical) experiences, simulation capacity and expertise, operations staff, and transition to practice resources.

Today, this is more challenging than ever, due to the impact of covid-19 on our nursing workforce, the natural attrition of our older nurses, early departure of new nurses causing a severe nursing shortage in the state, and the cost of travel nurses that is crippling the budgets of our health care facilities and not sustainable over the long term.

Nursing schools are competing for the same nursing human capital as our practice settings yet offer 30% less compensation for faculty roles as compared to clinical practice roles.

As a solution, it is critical to:

Engage nursing schools to identify the demand for full-time and part-time faculty lines and staff. Develop a nurse faculty marketing campaign for associate, baccalaureate, accelerated registered nurse programs, and masters degree in nursing programs for both full-time and part-time roles. Capitalize on the expertise of clinical nurses for the role of part-time clinical nurse faculty. Engage health care facilities to determine current nurse vacancies, future staffing needs, and onboarding/transition to practice gaps to best inform educational institutions as to the programs needed to be continued, expanded, or dissolved; thereby, maximizing education capacity, resources, faculty, and staff.

 Marcia Proto, executive director for the Connecticut Center for Nursing Workforce Inc., North Haven, Connecticut

 RJ Connelly III, Pawtucket, Rhode Island

Missing Pieces in the Covid Data Puzzle

It is misinformation to state that covid-19 deaths were counted when the opposite was true, and deaths were underreported due to political reasons, and reasons of expediency (FDA Experts Are Still Puzzled Over Who Should Get Which Covid Shots and When,) Jan. 27. For example, my father-in-law tested positive for covid before entering the hospital, and then repeatedly tested positive for covid while in the hospital so that he could not be released, and he died in the hospital, and covid was not listed as a cause of death on his death certificate. I have reason to believe that my own father died of covid in May 2020, during an election year, and covid was not listed as a cause of death on his death certificate. These men were not merely statistics, but left behind families who are still in turmoil and grief.

In public, people should wear masks all the time regardless of vaccination status, but, at the same time, be updated on vaccinations and boosters, and, at the same time, socially distance, and, at the same time, wash hands frequently and thoroughly. While all these measures should be taken simultaneously, everyone wearing masks is the easiest way to monitor compliance, and eliminates problems in determining someone elses vaccination status, or determining whether the efficacy of their vaccines may have waned, or in determining whether they tested positive for covid, and failed to quarantine.

When, previously, the science was that vaccines and booster efficacy waned after three to six months, it should not be touted now to get the vaccine or booster only once a year.

The goal post should never have been moved to merely keeping people out of the hospital, but the goal should be to prevent people contracting covid, and to eradicate this scourge once and for all.

 Edward H. Bonacci Jr., Apex, North Carolina

KHN (Kaiser Health News) is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues. Together with Policy Analysis and Polling, KHN is one of the three major operating programs at KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). KFF is an endowed nonprofit organization providing information on health issues to the nation.

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This story can be republished for free (details).
MUSCATINE  The elementary schools of the Muscatine community hope to drum up a bit of "Muskie Madness" as they help out the community with some truly lifesaving work.

From March 15 to April 15, all seven of the Muscatine Community School Districts elementary schools  including the Early Muskie Learning Center  will battle it out to see who can save the most lives in the districts first ever Muskie Madness blood drive.

Olivia Foglesong, SEBH Lead Teacher at Madison Elementary and Associate Board member for ImpactLife, is helping lead this month-long event.

Something that the Associate Board is trying to do is expand our drive and get some new ideas, and something that the board talked about was trying to get more school involvement, Foglesong explained. So I asked the building principals in Muscatine if they would be interested in hosting a blood drive, and they all said yes.

While the blood drive may be school-focused, its open to the public, meaning that any community member can donate to the cause. Participants can go to Muscatines local ImpactLife blood donor center, located at 2604 2nd Ave., tell the staff there that they are there to participate in Muskie Madness, and give them the name or code of the school that they want to contribute to.

But while the focus may be on giving blood and adding to the local supply, which has seen a recent decrease in donations due to bad weather preventing donors from making their appointments, this event is also going to help give Muscatines elementary schools a bit of extra funding.

If a school gets 20 people to donate for their building, then they will get a $270 LifeSavings grant from ImpactLife, Foglesong explained. The more people you get to donate, the higher the amount of the grant. ... Not only does it support our community by ensuring we have blood, but it also helps our students and it helps our schools get the things that they need. Its kind of a win-win for everyone.

For those who are unable to donate blood but who still want to help with the event, Foglesong encourages them to either help spread the word or to volunteer at the ImpactLife blood center in Muscatine.

In the meantime, the students of Muscatines elementary schools are already working to spread awareness about blood donation.

With this, another goal that I have is informing students about blood donation and what it is, she said. Our sixth grade leadership team at Madison Elem. have been researching about blood donation, and theyre making posters for the blood drive. Theyre the ones kind of spearheading the information within our building here.

As they prepare for the month-long drive, Foglesong and the other board members at ImpactLife hope to turn Muskie Madness into a yearly fundraiser, should the event end up being successful during this first year.

If it is something that weve found to be beneficial for everyone and were able to get families and staff and community members to come in and donate, I would love to continue doing it annually, she said.
Updated at 3:33 p.m. Sunday  Highway 29 north of Calistoga may reopen as early as Monday afternoon, nearly four days after a rare Upvalley snowstorm shut off the route to Lake County.

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.

California Highway Patrol spokesperson Jaret Paulson said Sunday that Caltrans is aiming to let traffic through Highway 29 between Tubbs Lane and the Lake County border as early as 3 p.m. Monday. The road has been closed since Thursday night, when more than 8 inches of snow on nearby Mount St. Helena disabled more than 35 vehicles and sent trees and branches toppling onto the pavement.

Earlier, Napa County announced that all other local roads that shut down during the Bay Area storm  which produced the regions heaviest snowfall since 2011  had reopened by Sunday.

The countys Office of Emergency Services announced the lifting of the remaining closures in a Nixle alert at 1 p.m. Multiple roads in Upvalley and high-elevation areas shut down starting Thursday night, as a major Northern California storm pattern brought several inches of snow that stranded drivers and toppled trees in mountain areas.

Among the local roads that closed due to weather before reopening were sections of Deer Park Road, Howell Mountain Road, Petrified Forest Road, Spring Mountain Road and the Oakville Grade.

PHOTOS: Snow hits Napa County Petrified Forest Road snow Howell Mountain Petrified Forest Road snow Angwin snow Petrified Forest Road snow Petrified Forest Road snow Atlas Peak Mount Veeder Snow in Angwin Snow in Angwin
Fatima Hasanova

Turkiye's Grand National Assembly Speaker Mustafa Sentop has shared his grief over the Khojaly genocide, Azernews reports.

"With respect, I honor the memory of our Azerbaijani brothers, who died 31 years ago in Khojaly, and once again I offer my condolences to Azerbaijan, with whom we are forever together in sorrow and joy. We will never forget this genocide officially recognized as an international crime," he tweeted.

The Khojaly genocide is seen as the pinnacle of the systematic crimes and atrocities committed by Armenia against Azerbaijanis.

Azerbaijan annually commemorates the victims of the Khojaly genocide on February 26.

s a result of the Khojaly genocide, 613 Azerbaijani civilians, including 63 children, 106 women, and 70 elderly people were killed. Simultaneously, 487 civilians were seriously injured, and 1,275 people were kidnapped. The fate of 150 hostages, including 68 women and 26 children remains unknown.

During the genocide, 56 people were killed with extreme cruelty, with their heads peeled off, various limbs severed, eyes removed, and pregnant women's bellies pierced with bayonets. As a result, eight families were utterly destroyed, 25 children lost both parents, and 130 children were orphaned.

Relevant documents adopted by the parliaments of Mexico, Pakistan, the Czech Republic, Peru, Colombia, Panama, Honduras, Sudan, Guatemala, and Djibouti recognized the Khojaly massacre as an act of genocide. The parliaments of Romania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Jordan, Slovenia, Scotland, and Paraguay, as well as the executive and legislative bodies of 22 U.S. states, have strongly condemned the Khojaly tragedy as a massacre. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation recognized Armenia as an aggressor and the Khojaly tragedy as genocide.




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On February 27-29, 1988, amid the encouragement and criminal inaction of the Azerbaijani authorities, the massacres of the Armenians in the city of Sumgait were carried out, resulting in the killing of hundreds of Armenians, including children, women, elderly, while thousands were forcibly displaced. This is noted in a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia issued Monday on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the massacres of Armenians in Sumgait.

The pre-planned massacres by the Azerbaijani authorities were carried out in order to brutally suppress the civilised struggle of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh to live with dignity and peacefully in their historical homeland.

This mass crime committed on the grounds of national identity received a wide response and was condemned by the international community, including relevant resolutions adopted by the European Parliament. However, the real organisers and perpetrators of the crime not only werent held accountable but also, encouraged by impunity and indulgence, raised a new wave of Armenophobia and intolerance, carrying out new pogroms and massacres of Armenians in Baku, Kirovabad and other Armenian-populated areas of Azerbaijan.

As a result of these bloody events, hundreds of thousands of Armenians had to leave their homes in haste, leaving behind their possessions and property, and during all these years they never got a chance to exercise their violated rights.

The subsequent events demonstrated that the mentioned crimes of the Azerbaijani authorities were not separate episodes, but vivid examples of state-planned Armenophobia, while their continuous manifestations forced the displacement of tens of thousands of Armenians from the Shahumyan region, Getashen, and as a result of the 44-day war also from Hadrut, Shushi and neighbouring regions.

35 years after the Sumgait massacres, for about 80 days, Azerbaijan has illegally blockaded the Lachin corridor. The purpose of this operation is to displace the remaining 120,000 Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh as well.

Henceforth, Azerbaijan continues its policy of depopulating Nagorno-Karabakh by subjecting the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh to ethnic cleansing. In order to prevent it, targeted condemnation by the international community and the implementation of relevant international mechanisms is imperative.

Even today, ignoring the orders of the reputable international courts, Azerbaijan explicitly continues to destroy, desecrate and vandalise the Armenian historical-cultural monuments and sanctuaries, aiming to erase the Armenian trace in the territories fallen under its control. Simultaneously, the propaganda of hatred towards Armenians continues at the highest level, which aims to prevent the two nations from overcoming the environment of enmity.

Today, paying tribute to the memory of the innocent victims of the pogroms against Armenians in Sumgait and other communities, we emphasise once again that Azerbaijan's Armenophobic rhetoric, maximalist aspirations and aggressive actions in response to efforts of Armenia to build stability and peace in the region, are inadmissible.

At the same time, the Republic of Armenia expresses its commitment to the peace agenda, believing that the establishment of lasting and comprehensive peace and security in the region is an urgent imperative, the statement added.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed the law on approving the Charter of the Research Center of ECO (Economic Cooperation Organization).

The charter was signed by Azerbaijan and Turkiye during the 14th summit of the organization, held on March 4, 2021.

The 14th ECO Summit was organized by Turkiye under the chairmanship of President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an. The event, convened under the theme of Regional Economic Cooperation in the aftermath of COVID-19, was inaugurated by the former Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan.

Moreover, all the ten ECO Heads of State and the ECO Secretary General, as well as the ECO Observers, Secretaries General of the Turkic Council and the International Energy Charter, were present at the Summit.
Now it turns out that, in addition to the tripartite declaration of November 9, 2020, there is another legally binding document which words the circumstance of uninterrupted passage through the Lachin corridor or Azerbaijan's obligation to ensure it. Yeghishe Kirakosyan, the representative of Armenia for international legal affairs, told this to a press conference Monday, reflecting on the recent decisions of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) of the United Nations regarding the application of temporary measures submitted by Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Last week, the ICJ decided to apply a temporary measure, obliging Azerbaijan to ensure the unhindered passage of people, goods, and vehicles through the Lachin corridor.

Yeghishe Kirakosyan said that this decision also has political consequences and they already exist now.

"Maybe they are not very visible. At least there is a consequence in the form of an assessment. If we have different countries, international organizations which start to talk about, to give an assessment on this issuefor example, Azerbaijan's non-implementation of the decision, this can already be considered a significant consequence. And as a result of the accumulation of those consequences, we get a result. When 10-15 countries start claiming the same thing, or the international organizations make calls, this can achieve some results with the snowball effect; this is the way.

This temporary measure is applied within the framework of the big case Armenia vs Azerbaijan, and we will submit these evidences to the court before the examination of the main case. That is, we will submit to the court Azerbaijan's non-compliances, or actions by Azerbaijan that violate the court's decisions" Yeghishe Kirakosyan added.

Also, he informed that according to the rules of the ICJ, the latter can set up a committee, consisting of three judges, to monitor the execution of court decisions. It is also possible that a fact-finding mission will come, but work must be done in that regard.
Thirteen members of the parliament of the Netherlands have called on the foreign minister of the country to take steps towards ending the blocking of the Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan and the restoration of uninterrupted access to Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), reports the Federation of Armenian Organisations in The Netherlands (FAON).

These lawmakers urged Dutch Foreign Minister Wopke Hoekstra to express an unequivocal position regarding the implementation of the recent decision by the International Court of Justice, according to which Azerbaijan must take all necessary measures to end the blockade and ensure the unhindered movement of people, vehicles, and cargo in both directions of the Lachin corridor.

Also, these MPs issued an inquiry to the head of the foreign ministry of the Netherlands as to what steps Amsterdam plans to take so that the authorities of Azerbaijan implement the aforesaid court's decision.

MPs ask if the minister took note of the fact that the Azerbaijani ambassador to the Netherlands made provocative tweets about the "ongoing peaceful action of an NGO," which once again highlights the complete disregard of the International Court of Justice ruling by Azerbaijani officials, FAON added.

According to the FAON, the aforementioned members of the Dutch Parliament also want to know what steps the Netherlands will take within the EU, the Council of Europe, and the United Nations for the immediate implementation of the court's decision.

Also in its message, FAON thanks the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands for the statement issued recently calling on Azerbaijan to comply with the legally binding decision of the International Court of Justice.
Sabina Mammadli

Kazakh Deputy Foreign Minister Kanat Tumysh and Azerbaijani Ambassador to Kazakhstan Agalar Atamoglanov discussed issues of cooperation within the framework of multilateral platforms.

According to Azernews, the sides particularly discussed cooperation in the frames of such organizations as the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), etc.

The parties also exchanged views on the preparations for the summit of the Contact Group of the Non-Aligned Movement to combat COVID-19 in Baku, the 10th UTC Summit in Turkestan, and the OIC Ministerial Council in Nouakchott.

Besides that, the diplomats agreed to maintain close contact within the framework of multilateral cooperation formats.

Noting that diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan were established on August 30, 1992. The Kazakh embassy in Azerbaijan was opened on January 9, 1993, and the Azerbaijani embassy in Kazakhstan on March 1, 2004.

The two countries closely cooperate in various sectors of the economy. Around 160 companies with Kazakh capital operate in Azerbaijan in the industry, construction, trade, agriculture, transport, and services, and Azerbaijani companies are also represented in the Kazakh market.
Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, who is in Geneva, Switzerland on a working visit, on Monday met with Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

As Armenian News-NEWS.am learns from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, the FM lauded the ICRC's long-term activities in Armenia aimed at resolving humanitarian issues. In this context, ICRC's efforts towards the return of Armenian prisoners of war and civilians held hostage in Azerbaijan, the cases of forcible disappearance, and the determining of the fates of missing persons were valued.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the details of the humanitarian situation created in Nagorno-Karabakh as a result of the blocking of the Lachin corridor by Azerbaijan. FM Mirzoyan emphasized that Azerbaijan grossly violates its commitments, as well as the norms of international humanitarian law and protection of human rights.

The importance of the implementation of the decision made by the International Court of Justice on February 22 regarding the use of urgent measures against Azerbaijan was also emphasized.

Also, FM Mirzoyan reflected on the need for ICRC's active engagement in addressing the humanitarian challenges in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Also, Ararat Mirzoyan stressed the importance of sending an international fact-finding mission to Nagorno-Karabakh and the Lachin corridor, as well as the imperative of ensuring unhindered humanitarian access to relevant international organizations.
Artsakh Foreign Ministry issued a statement on the 35th anniversary of the Sumgait pogroms.

"Today marks the 35th anniversary of the Sumgait pogroms, which have become one of the most tragic and hideous pages in the recent history of the Armenian people. From February 27 to 29, 1988, in the city of Sumgait, located just 40 kilometers from Baku, with the criminal connivance and even at the direction of the Azerbaijani authorities, mass progroms against the Armenian population took place, accompanied by murders, torture and other atrocities. Armed with sharp metal rods, axes, hammers and other improvised means, groups of pogromists, with the complete indifference of the city law enforcement, broke into the apartments of Armenians and retaliated against innocent people with incredible cruelty. During several days of violence, dozens of Armenians were killed, hundreds were brutally beaten and tortured, and thousands were forcibly displaced. The atmosphere of hatred towards Armenians was fueled by anti-Armenian slogans and calls for violence voiced during the rallies. The purpose of these criminal acts, organized by the Azerbaijani authorities, was to create an atmosphere of fear and thereby suppress the peaceful demands of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Sumgait massacre became the first large-scale manifestation of the discriminatory and genocidal policy pursued by Azerbaijan against the Armenian people for decades. This was followed by massacres of Armenians in other cities of Azerbaijan, in particular Baku, Kirovabad, Shamakhi, Shamkhor, Mingechaur and elsewhere, as well as three wars unleashed against Artsakh, which were accompanied by deliberate attacks on civilians, the use of prohibited and indiscriminate weapons and other war crimes.

The pogroms in Sumgait became the basis for the revival of intolerance and hatred against Armenians in Azerbaijan. Armenophobia was elevated to the rank of state policy. The inspirers and perpetrators of this heinous crime became a role model in Azerbaijan, and crimes against Armenians became the norm. Two years later, in January 1990, the Armenian pogroms in Baku were carried out under the slogan Glory to the heroes of Sumgait!. Unfortunately, Azerbaijan was not held accountable either for the pogroms in Sumgait or for subsequent genocidal actions, as a result of which an atmosphere of political permissiveness and impunity was formed for the authorities of this authoritarian state.

The combination of these factors - a sense of impunity and permissiveness, intolerance and hatred towards Armenians, as well as the desire to suppress the right of the people of Artsakh to self-determination at any cost - led to the rooting of genocidal intentions against the people of Artsakh in the political consciousness and state policy of Azerbaijan. A clear manifestation of these criminal intentions is the blockade of Artsakh that has been going on for more than two months, and was driven by the desire of the Azerbaijani authorities to force the people of Artsakh to give up their collective rights, deprive them of their homeland and ultimately destroy them.

Even after 35 years, Azerbaijan's policy of oppression, intimidation, gross violations of human rights, the use or threat of force, as well as deportation and ethnic cleansing against the people of Artsakh has not changed. Nevertheless, despite all the difficulties and challenges currently facing the Republic, the people of Artsakh remain firm and determined to defend their rights in their historical homeland and continue the struggle for freedom, independence, democracy and human rights.

We bow to the memory of all innocent victims of Azerbaijan's aggressive and misanthropic policy, and once again call on the international community to take active and effective measures to break the vicious cycle of Azerbaijan's wrongdoings, prevent new crimes against humanity and bring those responsible to justice," the statement said.
By Azernews

Elnur Enveroglu





Russia's longest-serving Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is slated to pay a two-day official visit to Azerbaijan on February 27 to mull over bilateral and multilateral issues of regional and wider-regional importance with top officials in Baku amid unfolding tectonic developments in Moscow's relations with the collective West over Ukraine.

Though formally the visit of the top Russian diplomat is timed to coincide with the first anniversary of the bilateral "Declaration on Aallied interaction between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Russian Federation", signed on February 22, 2022, by the leaders of the two states, the visit is more than it and speaks volumes.

However, as is the case, political analysts are prone to pretend to see a bigger picture behind it than others and read mines and agendas to top discussions, and Lavrov's visit and issues to be mulled are no exceptions. Some believe the ministers official visit to Baku is to send a message that the Kremlin is retaining a leading role in the region despite the centrifugal forces.

The visit to Azerbaijan comes at a time when Armenia's anti-Russian pro-Western forces took to the street to chant anti-Putin and anti-Russian slogans. These protests and political hustle over Moscow's role in Armenia are in tune with the ever-growing role of the West in the tiny nation, which is also home to two major Russian military bases with its border with Turkiye under the Kremlin control.

Russia also missed the Munich Security Conference, where the Armenian-Azerbaijani relations and the current state of perspectives for hammering out a peace deal were looked into and fresh views were heard with the West's mediation role gaining traction.

In comments to Azernews, Russian political expert, and editor-in-chief of the National Defence magazine, Igor Korotchenko, first pointed out the purpose behind the Russian diplomats visit, saying that it is due to the complex of negotiations, including the declaration on allied cooperation, signed last year between Russia and Azerbaijan, and the situation in the South Caucasus, as well as active interactions on the diplomatic plain.

The pundit also touched on the current processes in Armenia and public opinion being shaped against Russia.

The anti-Russian sentiments are growing in Armenia. They are fueled by Western embassies, in particular, the American and French ones. On the other hand, Nikol Pashinyan, distancing himself further and further from Russia, uses this format to communicate his dissatisfaction with the policy of Russia. The fact is that these rallies will not have any impact on the assessment of Russia, and the situation both in Armenia, and the South Caucasus. For Russia, the main thing is the protection of national interests and not to serve Armenia's fancies.

Azerbaijani political analyst Samir Humbatov of the Centre for International Relations and Diplomatic Studies is of the opinion that Lavrov's visit to Azerbaijan is necessitated by Armenia's approach to the West, mainly against the background of astonishing deployment of the European observation mission in Armenia along the border with Azerbaijan.

The recent events unfolding in the South Caucasus, and Armenia's policy of extending the gap between Russia, actually show Russia's gradual inclination towards Azerbaijan. Obviously, Lavro's visit to Baku is not idle, some serious issues will be discussed here. However, it will be known at the end of the meeting whether or not they reach an agreement on certain issues.

It is an open secret that the Shusha-Khankandi road is currently controlled by Azerbaijani eco-activists in protest at the Russian peacekeepers' refusal to live up to their commitments stipulated under the November 10, 2020, trilateral deal. Of course, the meeting may also weigh the pros and cons of Azerbaijan's proposal to erect checkpoints on the border. Presumably, these issues will also be discussed at the meeting. Simultaneously, today there is already massive western pressure on Russia. Under such circumstances, Russia becomes desperate for Turkiye and Azerbaijan from the point of view of continuing trade.

Speaking about Russia's role in maintaining peace and security in the region, the political analyst said it would also be the last chance for Russia to proceed with its conciliatory mission in the South Caucasus.

As Armenia gets closer to the west, a reality that emerges urges Russia to take serious measures. The restoration of peace in the South Caucasus begins with the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. If Russia does nothing towards this, it can completely be kicked out of Armenia and even out of the South Caucasus.

Samir Humbatov also speculated about Lavrov's agenda, which, he believes will focus on discussion and intensification of activities under the "3+3" format, which implies the participation of the three countries of the South Caucasus (Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia), as well as the three closest neighbors powers (Russia, Iran, and Turkiye).

Actually, the 3+3 format was proposed by the leaders of Azerbaijan and Turkey to ensure peace and security in the region. However, the Russian-Ukrainian war coincided with it and Russia did not take it seriously. On the other hand, Iran was not happy with this agreement because it was afraid of deepening Azerbaijan's relations with Russia and Turkiye. However, as the regional and extra-regional political processes are undergoing deep changes, the format necessitates revisiting the issue in question. I believe that during the meeting with Lavrov, this issue will be discussed for the benefit of both sides and will be treated properly.




A few weeks ago there was a serious railroad accident on the border of Ohio and Pennsylvania (USA). The accident became an environmental disaster, so serious that it has been dubbed "Chernobyl in Ohio," writes New Science.



On February 3, 2023, a train carrying large amounts of toxic products derailed in East Palestine, Ohio, USA. Specifically, the derailment affected 38 of the train's 150 cars. The result was a fire with black smoke and the release of large amounts of toxic gases into the atmosphere. A February 16, 2023 article on the Science Alert website spoke of the evacuation of more than a thousand residents, with life and death involved. Although these residents have already returned to their homes, it should be noted that many animal species, mostly aquatic, died within an 8 km radius of the accident. However, these were not endangered or even endangered species. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, up to 3,500 fish were killed, as well as foxes and other poultry. The accident caused a huge spill of vinyl chloride. Used in the manufacture of plastics (PVC), this product is carcinogenic and flammable. In addition, this industrial organic compound was used in chemical weapons during World War I.



Prior to the accident, the Railroad Workers United union had warned of the unsafe nature of this train. According to the workers, it was said that because of the short inspection times, the cars on the trains were in poor condition. They also cited too long and heavy trains and poor load distribution in an attempt to save time. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which is well known for investigating accidents involving autonomous vehicles, said it is continuing to investigate derailments. Ohio Governor DeWine has lashed out at Norfolk Southern, which is apparently responsible for the accident. Finally, the question arises. Should this accident be called "Chernobyl in Ohio" (or Chernobyl 2.0)? Actually, this notion is not controversial because, like the 1986 disaster in Ukraine, the train derailment in Ohio is also classified as Level 7 on the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES).
On February 27, 2023, Azerbaijan launched an interstate arbitration process against Armenia in accordance with the Energy Charter Treaty. APA reports quoting Armenian Foreign Ministry, the Azerbaijani side in the arbitration notice handed over to Armenia demanded from Armenia "financial compensation for violation of Azerbaijan's sovereign rights to energy resources during almost 30 years of illegal occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia from 1991 to 2020."



"It is noted that the largest hydropower facility, which was illegally operated by Armenia, is the Terter HPP, built on the Sarsang reservoir on the Terterchai River. In 1994 Armenia seized Sarsang reservoir and Terter HPP during the military occupation of the sovereign territories of Azerbaijan. It is stressed that also during the occupation Armenia built at least 37 hydropower facilities in the sovereign territories of Azerbaijan without permission. Along with the electricity produced by the Terter Hydroelectric Power Plant, the production from these unauthorized facilities was a "source of exports" to Armenia. To facilitate the illegal exploitation of hydropower reserves belonging to Azerbaijan, Armenia established a "unified system" for the distribution of electricity to Armenia from the former occupied territories, "regulated from Armenia the daily production of electricity" and issued fictitious "licences" to energy companies to operate existing facilities. It was noted that during the occupation Armenia illegally exploited Chardaghli coal field in Tartar region of Azerbaijan to use the coal produced there in Yerevan thermal power plant," the newspaper quotes.
The condition of former Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili, who is undergoing treatment at a Tbilisi hospital, is critical and if his weight loss continues, it may lead to irreversible processes. Georgi Grigolia, a doctor at the Georgian ombudsman's office, said this on Monday, RIA Novosti reported.



"Cachexia is getting worse. What is happening to Saakashvili is natural: he is losing weight, there is a process of destruction of muscle and already bone tissue. This is happening because he is not receiving adequate treatment," Grigolia told reporters. According to him, if "the weight of the politician decreases to 55 kilograms, irreversible processes will begin and he will be confined to bed." The doctor said that Saakashvili currently weighs 64 kilograms but the trend of weight loss is still there.



Doctors of the ombudsman's office examined Saakashvili on February 19. The official conclusion of the group of doctors says that the patient has a loss of balance and coordination, reduction of mental functions, the process of self-dissolution of body tissues, muscle atrophy, cachexia of the fourth degree, peripheral and vegetative neuropathy has started.



Saakashvili's family members report daily on the politician's grave condition. Earlier, independent doctors reported that Saakashvili was poisoned by heavy metals. The Tbilisi City Court considered a case on the possible postponement of Saakashvili's prison sentence in order to treat him in an overseas clinic, but the court rejected the request of his lawyers.
Dozens of migrants die in shipwreck off Italy

Wreckage from the boat washes ashore at a beach near Cutro, southern Italy. Photo: AP

More than 50 migrants, including a baby just a few months old, died after their overloaded boat sank early on Sunday in stormy seas off Italy's southern Calabria region, rescue services said.



"At the current time, 80 people have been recovered alive, including some who managed to reach the shore after the sinking," the coastguard said in a statement.



"Forty-three bodies have been found along the coastline," it added.



Rescue workers said that the vessel was carrying "more than 200 people", around 50 of whom had been brought to safety.



"Dozens and dozens of people drowned, including children. Lots missing. Calabria is in mourning after this terrible tragedy," regional governor Roberto Occhiuto said.



The overloaded boat broke up in violent waves off the coastal city of Crotone at dawn, according to Italian media.



AGI news agency quoted a rescue worker as saying an infant of just a few months old was among the victims.



Far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the leader of the post-Fascist Brothers of Italy party, won power in October, partly on a promise to stem the flow of migrants reaching Italian shores.



Expressing "deep pain" over the latest deaths, Meloni said it was "criminal to put a boat of barely 20 metres to sea with 200 people onboard and a bad weather forecast".



"The government is committed to preventing departures, and with them, this type of tragedy," she added in a statement, adding it demanded the "greatest" collaboration of states from where migrants set off and originate.



The latest such tragedy comes just days after the government pushed through parliament a controversial new law on rescuing would-be migrants.



The new law forces migrant aid vessels to make just one rescue attempt at a time, which critics say risks increasing the number of drownings in the central Mediterranean.



The route is considered the most dangerous crossing in the world for people seeking asylum in Europe.



A large proportion of people fleeing conflict and poverty, for what they hope will be a better life in Europe, cross from Africa via Italy.



According to the interior ministry, nearly 14,000 migrants have arrived in Italy by sea so far this year, up from 5,200 over the same period last year and 4,200 in the first two months of 2021.



Charities rescuing people in difficulty at sea bring only a fraction of migrants ashore.



Most of those who are rescued are plucked from the dangerous waters by coast guards or the navy.



Despite this, the government in Rome accuses rescue charities of encouraging migrants to attempt the crossing and boosting the fortunes of human traffickers.



Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi said the latest disaster "shows how absolutely necessary it is to staunchly combat illegal immigration".



Centrist former economy minister Carlo Calenda reacted on Twitter: "People in difficulty at sea should be rescued, whatever the cost, without penalising those trying to help them." (AFP)
Bank of Baroda (BoB) said it had taken a commercial decision to close its Al Ain branch in UAE a year ago and has received approvals from the country's central bank and a photo that is being circulated on social media claiming that crowds queued up at the Al Ain branch to close their accounts was misleading and false. "To ensure the smooth continuation of services, all accounts currently maintained at the Al Ain branch are being transferred to the Bank's Abu Dhabi branch in UAE," BOB said in a statement. It said those customers who wish to close their account/s may do so before March 22, 2023, without incurring any charges or penalties. "Customers are accordingly visiting the Al Ain branch to provide the necessary consent/ give further instructions with regard to their account/s in Al Ain branch," the bank further said, adding that the bank is committed to continue to provide uninterrupted services to its customers. (ANI)
New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI/ATK): The crypto market is filled with several options, one of which is either a red pill of decapitating loss or a blue pill of financial freedom. Viewed from that angle, the crypto market might seem like nothing but a big gamble. However, that is not the whole picture. Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that seeks to provide an alternative for several individuals. It provides great opportunities for financial freedom. Just like every other market, the crypto market is rife with its risks and pitfalls. Those who take the time to conduct their research before making a move are more likely to succeed in the crypto market. All crypto enthusiasts understand the risks and possibilities involved with every given cryptocurrency. However, they are also well aware of the rewards that abound in the market. Every investor would prefer a high-profit crypto asset with a low-risk level to a high-profit coin with a high-risk level. However, the risk tolerance level varies between investors. This is why it is important that investors fully understand the risk that is associated with purchasing a crypto asset. The crypto market is looking up, and the prices of the coins are inching higher and higher. Of the several coins in the market, investors are encouraged to consider Avalanche (AVAX) and Big Eyes (BIG). Avalanche (AVAVX): Multi-Layer BlockchainThe Avalanche (AVAX) platform is designed to accommodate the needs of developers. The crypto asset allows developers to build unique decentralized applications. Smart contracts and blockchains can also be created on the Avalanche (AVAX) platform. Its native token, AVAX, can be used for several functions. To own an AVAX token, however, an investor must work for it on the Avalanche (AVAX) network. Avalanche (AVAX) gained prominence thanks to its nickname, "Ethereum Killer." The crypto asset is designed to solve many of the issues battling Ethereum (ETH). The Ethereum (ETH) network faces two of the biggest issues: high transaction fees and slow transaction speeds. Avalanche (AVAX), on the other hand, solves these issues with tact and efficiency. By retaining many of the features that make Ethereum (ETH) successful, many users and developers are happy to switch to the Avalanche (AVAX) network. The open-source blockchain supports the development of decentralized applications (dApp) and the deployment of smart contracts. It also makes use of the proof of stake (PoS) consensus algorithm. With the Avalanche (AVAX) network, users can perform 4,500 transactions every second without worrying. Big Eyes (BIG): Leading Cryptocurrency into the FutureBig Eyes (BIG) might just be a new coin in the crypto market, but it is already making an impact. The crypto asset has quickly gained prominence among crypto enthusiasts due to its interesting nature and notable features. Unlike many other meme coins, Big Eyes (BIG) eschewed the dog theme in favor of a cat. The meme coin's adorable nature is one factor that caught the eye of several investors. Apart from that, Big Eyes (BIG) is working towards building a strong community filled with dedicated individuals that would uplift the coin. Big Eyes (BIG) intends to create a strong blockchain ecosystem to guarantee steady growth. This plan further endears even more investors towards the coin. Big Eyes (BIG) is a meme coin that is interested in keeping its members engaged. To that end, it plans many events and reward systems to keep its members engaged and active. Big Eyes (BIG) has created simplified systems that will make it easier for investors to join their community. With the grand plans and feasible action plans, there is no doubt that Big Eyes (BIG) would remain a strong contender in the market for years to come. Big Eyes has a new way to win BIG with new Loot Boxes. Big Eyes are offering a big prize to the people with a USD 99 Cute Box where buyers can win up to USD 5K worth of Big Eyes Coins. Kitty Vault costs USD 499 and a total prize of USD 25K worth of Big Eyes Coins can be won. The USD 999 Super Saiyan Box contains the biggest possible prize of USD 100K worth of BIG. Presale: https://buy.bigeyes.space/ Website: https://bigeyes.space/ Telegram: https://t.me/BIGEYESOFFICIAL This story has been provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/ATK)
Washington is in talks with Berlin and Warsaw to hold joint military maneuvers in Poland, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said Sunday.

Exercises were being considered, Pistorius told public broadcaster ARD, without confirming or adding any details for now.

NATO is far from being weak, said Pistorius.

Even so, for countries in eastern Europe, like Poland, the Baltic states, Slovakia and others, it's important to see that Germany as the most important European member of the alliance, and the US as transatlantic partner, are upholding their defense obligations, he added.
Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], February 27 (ANI/BusinessWire India): HCL Foundation today announced the NGOs selected for the 2023 edition of its flagship program HCL Grant - which supports pioneering work in sustainable rural development in India. HCL Foundation delivers the corporate social responsibility agenda of HCLTech. Three NGOs--Planatearth, Innovators in Health (IIH) India and Meghshala Trust will receive Rs 5 crore (appx. USD 620,000) each for their projects under the HCL Grant endowment. This year's winners were chosen from submissions from more than 15,000 entities, an increase of 80 per cent versus last year. According to Robin Ann Abrams, Chairperson of the HCL Grant Jury and Board Member, HCLTech: "These organizations and their projects - aligned to the HCL Foundation's core areas of focus in environment, health and education - will bring a visible and inclusive change to the 'last mile.' We believe their work will provide an important lifeline to rural communities by bridging inequality in healthcare, helping in freshwater conservation and more readily bringing education to underserved populations." In addition, six NGO finalists will receive grants of Rs 25 lakh (appx. USD 30,000) each in the following categories: - Environment: Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pune (IISER); North-East - Initiative Development Agency (NEIDA)- Education: MAHAN; Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (SSRDPT)- Health: Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS); Guria Swayam Sevi Sansthan (GSSS) HCL Foundation has funded more than Rs 130 crore (appx. USD 16 million) to NGOs since the HCL Grant program's onset eight years ago, reaching over 1.8 million beneficiaries in more than 25,000 villages in remote districts across 19 states and two Union Territories of India. Dr Nidhi Pundhir, Vice President, Global CSR, HCL Foundation, bestowed the recipients with their awards in a virtual ceremony attended by representatives of NGOs, HCL, HCLTech and the media fraternity. The ceremony was the culmination of a thorough, Grant Thornton-audited process, which earlier in the year involved a series of pan-India symposiums bringing together more than 2,000 representatives from NGOs, government and corporates. "We are delighted at the volume of applications received for this year's selection process. HCL Grant partners with these NGOs to strengthen their governance and help scale their innovative ideas for sustainable rural development. We look forward to working with this year's selected NGO partners to scale innovative interventions that will supercharge progress for rural communities," Dr Pundhir said. She also announced the release of the seventh volume of the compendium 'Fifth Estate - NGOs Transforming Rural India in Environment, Health and Education,' which chronicles the work done by past HCL Grant recipients. The book will be available in all national libraries and through international affiliates. Planatearth was awarded HCL Grant in the environment category for its project on conservation of water bodies by cleaning plastics from oceans and invasive species like water hyacinth from ponds and backwaters. It is expected to directly benefit at least 170,000 fishermen across 45 villages in Kerala. The project aims to improve quality of water bodies along with positive impact on the livelihood of fisherfolk. "The oceans of the world, and the coastal waters of Kerala in particular, are polluted by plastic, which seriously affects the livelihood of marine fishermen. The HCL Grant is the only way we could realize our goals of helping the rural fishermen of Kerala and conserving the planet," said Sooraj Abraham, Founder, Planatearth. Innovators in Health (IIH) India received the HCL Grant in the health category for a project on universal tuberculosis care in rural Bihar. The project aims to reduce tuberculosis burden through enabling public health system, improving diagnostics and treatment outcomes. It will reach out to more than 10,500 households in 1,260 villages in the Samastipur district of Bihar. "I am deeply humbled by HCL Foundation's trust in us. This grant will help us extend the services we are already providing to a wider audience and community and make Samastipur a unique district in tuberculosis care in India," said Dr Manish Kumar, CEO, Innovators in Health (IIH) India. Meghshala was awarded the HCL Grant in the education category for a project on technology-enabled teacher capacity building, with focus on local languages. It will directly benefit 2,700 primary and secondary teachers of government schools and 63,000 students from Grades 1-8 in 460 villages of Sikkim. The project will help in promoting digital literacy and encouraging the use of local languages among younger generation. "We continue to keep languages at the center of all our development work and HCL Grant's support will help us extend our services to more classrooms across the nation, especially those that teach local languages, where our intervention is most required," said Jyoti Thyagarajan, Founder and CEO, Meghshala Trust. Recipient NGOs were selected after screening and review of applications by an eminent jury, monitored and audited by HCL Grant governance partner Grant Thornton. Jury members include: Robin Ann Abrams, Chairperson of the Jury, Board Member, HCLTech; Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestle India Limited; B. S. Baswan, Former Director, Indian Institute of Public Administration and Former Secretary, Human Resource Development Ministry; Pallavi Shroff, Managing Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co; Dr Richard Lariviere, Sanskrit Scholar & President Emeritus, Field Museum (Chicago); and Shiv Nadar, Founder, HCL Group and Chairman Emeritus, HCLTech. This story is provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/BusinessWire India)
New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI/PNN): Akshay Kumar is one of the biggest superstars of Bollywood who has made a name for himself through his hard work and sheer dedication towards his craft. Akshay Kumar's fan following is not only restricted to India alone but he has fans all across the globe and the Indian diaspora in America loves him the most. Now, Akshay Kumar is soon ready to embark on a journey to USA where he will be entertaining the audiences in a live show in various US cities along with many of his Bollywood co-stars. Along with Akshay Kumar, actor Mouni Roy, Disha Patani, Sonam Bajma, Nora Fatehi and Aparshakti Khurana among a few others will be performing and entertaining the audiences through the show titled 'The Entertainers'. Meit Shah, the promoter for the Orlando show of The Entertainers is super excited for hosting the entertaining team. Akshay Kumar expressed his happiness that he will be performing live in front of his fans in Orlando, USA. He said that he and his team will try to give their 100 per cent while performing their acts and all of them together will try to make the show a grand success. Akshay spoke to Meit Shah in a zoom call interaction. The show will be held at Osceola Heritage Park in Orlando on March 11. Expressing his excitement Meit Shah said, "This is going to be one of the biggest shows of our lifetime. I am trying to give my best and arrange everything in a way that everything goes off smoothly. It's a Saturday night show and we are expecting a crowd of 10,000 to 12,000 people all around the city and adjacent cities are expected to turn up for the show. I can assure everyone that people witnessing the show will get good value for their money." He further said, "After being hit by pandemic, everyone's life has been affected badly and things had gone for a drastic change. Hence, everyone wants to be entertained like never before. What better way to organise a Bollywood celebrity show to spread smile and happiness among the Indian diaspora in USA." This story is provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PNN)
New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI/NewsVoir): WyattPrism Communications, India's leading agency for corporate reporting and stakeholder communications, once again excelled at the prestigious League of American Communication Professionals LLC (LACP) Competition. At the LACP 2021/22 Vision Awards, eight annual reports developed by WyattPrism won a total of 23 awards including seven Platinum Awards, one Gold Award and seven Special Awards. The reports that ranked the highest and the second-highest within their competition class were presented with the Platinum and Gold Awards, respectively. All eight reports also ranked among the top 100 reports worldwide, regardless of the competition class. This achievement comes on the back of 20 awards garnered by WyattPrism at the LACP 2022 Spotlight Awards. The wins were spread across Annual Reports developed for 10 clients. LACP was established in 2001 to create a forum that facilitates discussion of best-in-class communication practices while also recognizing those who demonstrate exemplary work. Nine of the Top Ten Fortune 500 Firms have joined LACP Competitions. LACP 2021/22 Vision Awards received nearly 1,000 applications from more than 20 countries. Congratulating the clients and the team at WyattPrism Communications, Manisha Srivastava, CEO of WyattPrism Communications said, "We have always taken pride in our work, with the aim to create reports par excellence. Winning 43 awards on a prestigious international forum is a recognition of our capabilities, the differentiation we bring to corporate reporting and the ownership with which the team strives to raise the bar, year after year." Preeti Sharma, Founder Promoter of WyattPrism adds, "Our team works passionately and in the true spirit of partnership with our clients to create reports that stand out for being both insightful and impactful; delivered in physical formats and digital and by skilfully weaving compelling content with engaging design so that the story is told, powerfully. We have consistently maintained a stellar record at the LACP Competition and as leaders in the field of corporate reporting, we look forward to delivering more such outstanding work." LACP 2021/22 Vision Award-winning Reports by WyattPrism: LACP 2022 Spotlight Award-winning Reports by WyattPrism: Amit Dahanukar, Chairman & Managing Director at Tilaknagar Industries Limited said, "Creative stakeholder communication helps convergence of interest and collaboration, so crucial for achievement. At Tilaknagar, we aspire to initiate engaging communication with all stakeholders to strengthen valuable alliances for the common good. I compliment WyattPrism Communications for their worthy professional support in this instance." Rajhagopalan S, Vice President at Bharat Forge Limited said, "The LACP Award is one of the highest honours in corporate communications and deserves celebration. Congratulations to the team for this achievement! I would also like to extend my appreciation to WyattPrism for their continued support. Their contribution in simplifying the entire journey into smaller steps and then weaving the messaging and design together to create an outstanding report is a great example of our Annual Report theme 'Smaller Steps to Bigger Strides'." Saket Somani, Vice President, Finance & Strategy at Radico Khaitan Limited said, "As we celebrate the LACP Vision Award for our Annual Report 2021-22, I would like to thank all our team members who were instrumental in creating this exemplary document. Our report is in the elite group of the top 100 reports worldwide, in addition to being the highest-ranked report in our category globally. A big thank you also to WyattPrism for working cohesively with us to deliver this report." Manikandan G, Senior Vice President - Legal and Secretarial at Computer Age Management Services Limited said, "We are glad to note that our Annual Report has been chosen for the award under the platinum category. We appreciate the efforts put in by WyattPrism in the design and development of the Integrated Report. The digital report which has also won the award has been well received by the shareholders as well. The Integrated Report was the first such report prepared by the Company and the support provided by WyattPrism is exceptional." WyattPrism is India's leading Corporate Reporting and Stakeholder Communication specialist. For over 15 years, the agency has been at the forefront of creating award-winning communications for listed Indian companies from diverse sectors. Corporate reports developed at WyattPrism bring together compelling storytelling, research-led content and distinctive creativity. Its digital wing is a leader in digital stakeholder reporting, making sure that every report comes alive at the click of a mouse and at the swipe of your finger on your mobile. WyattPrism is a one-stop and all-formats agency - perhaps the only one with such capabilities and credentials. Winning more than 170 awards (across physical and digital formats) in the past five years is a testament to the team's capabilities, passion and commitment. This story has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)
New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI/PNN): To enhance the overall employee experience, the global engagement platform Advantage Club has launched NFT powered Rewards & Recognition solution - a first-of-its-kind in the industry. This NFT-powered solution with blockchain technology will make rewards & recognition more unique and valuable to employees. It will provide a transparent, tamper-proof, verifiable record of rewards to increase trust and fairness in the rewards program. On the launch, Sourabh Deorah, Co-Founder & CEO, Advantage Club said, "Recognition is all about creating an experience for the end user. Ability to mint NFTs when an employee is recognised, dawns a new era in the employee experience. This is a first-of-its-kind solution in the world, and we are seeing an exciting response from companies looking to revamp their Reward & Recognition program with a new age twist." This new-age NFT-powered Reward & Recognition solution was created keeping in mind the needs of the companies looking to enhance the relevance and belongingness of an employee's achievements during and after his tenure with the organisation. As a technology, an NFT-powered solution will not only enhance the employee experience during their tenure but also leaves a legacy behind, even after an employee leaves the company. In addition to the Reward & Recognition, NFT-powered solutions will also take the community engagement experience on the platform to the next level by introducing DIY NFTs, a ready marketplace, and the option to decentralise to provide real value to the end users. In Deorah's opinion, "It will help immensely in enhancing the value proposition of the reward and recognition program for the millennial employees and the new-age employers alike. It will also enhance the branding for the corporate as an employer who cares about the well-being of the employee and provides value in every aspect of employees' life." The NFT-powered Reward & Recognition solution is the first step in the web3.0 journey. The company will enhance the entire employee experience by integrating technologies such as Metaverse, Virtual reality, mixed reality, and more. Together it will make the digital journey of all employees on par irrespective of location, language, job profile, etc. It will revolutionize how employee engagement is perceived and implemented globally, and Advantage Club is at the forefront of bringing these innovative products to the market. Advantage Club is a global employee engagement platform with benefits like rewards, recognitions, flexible benefits and perks on a single platform. It provides end-to-end solutions to facilitate employee engagement through exclusive privileges and rewards by brand partners, allowing them to reach out to targeted customer segments. Established in 2016, Advantage Club is a brainchild of UCLA postgraduates Sourabh Deorah and Smiti Bhatt Deorah, who identified employee benefits as a space to create disruption using data mining and analytics. Currently headquartered in Delaware, Advantage Club has an impressive client portfolio featuring Accenture, Concentrix, Teleperformance, Hexaware, EY, Target, BCG, Lafarge, Resort World Sentosa, and many more. This story is provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PNN)
New Delhi [India], February 27 (ANI/PRNewswire): Armani Exchange hosted the second edition of the A|X Press Play on 11th & 12th February at DLF Promenade, New Delhi, an experiential music festival that was truly one of a kind. A weekend to remember with 8000+ footfall across the 2 days, the festival was an audio-visual treat like never before with fresh electronic music, gesture interactive art installations, mall facade visual projections. The future-themed interactive installations and projection mapping were coupled with crowd-stirring performances by renowned electronic artists such as Tech Panda x Kenzani and Sickflip. An event like no other, the attendee list saw a mix of fashion industry insiders, celebrities, and influencers merging traditional streetwear with futuristic fashion elements. Guests were treated to great food and drinks while taking in the music and vivacity of the night, making it a truly unique experience. #AXPressPlay. In 1991, Giorgio Armani establishes A|X Armani Exchange after his pioneering idea to create a brand for the generations of fast-fashion shoppers. The designer gives life to a collection of pieces that reflect the casual, understated attitude of the new generation. With its fresh unconventional character, the line is immediately in step with the energy of young consumers. The collection offers accessible and versatile clothing and accessories, distancing itself from conventional designs to provide a different perspective. It is a declaration of belonging to a world rooted in street culture and a statement of an attitude of individualism - all expressed through a style of dressing. This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)
"CM (chief minister) Naveen Patnaik met with Mukesh Ambani to discuss the strengths of Odisha as an investment destination, and the future investment plans of Reliance Industries Limited in the state," according to a statement from the state government.

According to the statement, CM Patnaik will engage with leading industrialists from the region through government-to-business (G2B) meetings during his visit to Mumbai on Monday to discuss investment opportunities and boosting industrial growth in Odisha.

In December last year, the state of Odisha got investment intents of Rs 10.50 lakh crore through its investment summit -- Make in Odisha Conclave, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said. These investments have the potential of generating 10.50 lakh direct and indirect employment, he said.

Naveen Patnaik had said, "I am happy to announce that the conclave has generated investment intents of Rs 10.50 lakh crore with potential for 10.50 lakh direct and indirect employment. It's heartening to see the huge response we have got especially in the post-Covid scenario." (ANI)
Leading steelmaker Jindal Steel and Power (JSP) was declared the winner of the prestigious CSR Journal Excellence Award 2022, under the category of Education and Skill Development for its special education programme -- Asha - the Hope -- a programme for DivyangJan. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde graced the event, which was held on Saturday, and applauded the corporates for various inclusive development programmes under their CSR initiatives. The Chief Minister congratulated the winners and the runner-up awardees and appreciated the Grand Jury for adopting a stringent selection process. On behalf of the company and its CSR Arm JSP Foundation, Prashant Hota, president and JSP's Group Head CSR and Education received the Award in National Stock Exchange Auditorium, Mumbai, according to a statement from JSP Foundation. Congratulating the Team CSR for receiving the prestigious Award, the Chairperson of JSP Foundation Shallu Jindal said, "Asha the Hope, the Flagship Programme of JSP Foundation for rehabilitating and mainstreaming the DivyangJan is close to my heart. We chase our dream for an Inclusive India where none should be left out of the basic needs of life. Education is the building block of Civilizations and I strongly believe that our Digyang Children and Citizens will continue to be nation-builders if we all discharge our responsibility to support them with inclusive measures, appropriate rehabilitation and special education. I am thankful to the Jury for recognising our work and selecting us as the Winner of this prestigious CSR Journal Excellence Award". Asha the Hope Programme, run by JSP Foundation in Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, is a flagship CSR initiative of JSP. Under this programme, centre-based therapeutic and rehabilitation services such as occupational therapy, speech training, special education and skill training are given to children with special needs. More than 5,000 children are being rehabilitated and encompassed under a holistic special education initiative. Recently, JSP has been honoured with various awards, including the Golden Peacock Award 2022 for its excellence in corporate social responsibility activities in the steel sector and FICCI CSR Special Commendation Award for its efforts in combating the Covid-19 pandemic. The company has been declared the winner of the recently announced National CSR Award by the Ministry of Corporate Affair in two categories. (ANI)
The Directorate of Enforcement (ED) has provisionally attached 87 properties worth Rs 4.15 crore of NGHI Developers India and its other group companies in connection with a ponzi scheme which affected thousands of investors across the states of Punjab, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. The investigation in this regard was initiated by ED, Jalandhar, under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, in compliance with the directions of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana. The enquiries conducted by the ED revealed that multiple FIRs were found registered in Punjab, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh under various sections of IPC, 1860, against Pipal Singh, managing director of Nicer Green Group companies and others. Pipal Singh was arrested by the police but he got bail from the High Court, taking the plea that he would return the money to the investors which he never did. He has been declared as proclaimed offender by the Tarn Taran court. Investigation conducted by the ED revealed that multiple companies were formed or incorporated by the main accused Pipal Singh and his associates. The directors of Nicer Green Group Companies had generated proceeds of crime in the form of fixed deposits/recurring deposits (FDs/RDs) on a false promise of high returns. After expiry of maturity, the accused persons defaulted in returning money and also pressurised the investors to invest funds in their new companies, if they wanted their previously invested money to be returned. Further, investigation in the case revealed that the proceeds of crime had been diverted and parked in various immovable properties purchased in Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh in the names of NGHI Developers India Limited and other group companies. The agency said further probe is being carried out. (ANI)
Juhi and Madhavan received the special award from former President Ram Nath Kovind at Vigyan Bhavan in the capital.

Sharing a few glimpses from the ceremony, Juhi took to Instagram and expressed her gratitude.

"It is said that, 'Behind every champion there is a team that prepared him to become that champion'.. thanking everyone who touched my life , helped me learn , grow and supported in whatever I could do for the society. Honoured and humbled," she wrote.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CpHhJG1JWga/?hl=en

As soon as Juhi shared pictures and videos from the ceremony, members of the film industry and her fans chimed in the comment section and congratulated her.

"Congratulations well deserved," Manisha Koraila commented.

"Congratulations," Raveena Tandon commented.

Madhavan also shared a video of him receiving the award on his Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CpIAGALvxJ6/?hl=en

"Thank you so very much. Gods Grace," he captioned the clip.

Champions of Change is an Indian award for promoting Gandhian values, community service and social development. It was founded in 2011. (ANI)
Pinsent, who gained international recognition in 2006 for his performance alongside Julie Christie in Sarah Polley's drama 'Away From Her', breathed his last on Saturday. He was 92 years old, Variety reported.

Pinsent's death was confirmed to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation through a statement released by his family.

"Gordon Pinsent's daughters, Leah and Beverly, and his son, Barry, would like to announce the passing of their father peacefully in sleep today with his family at his side," reads a note written on behalf of Pinsent's family by his son-in-law, Peter Keleghan. "Gordon passionately loved this country and its people, purpose and culture to his last breath."

After serving in the Canadian army for four years in the '50s, Pinsent took to the Stratford Festival in 1962 and performed supporting roles in productions of "Macbeth," "The Taming of the Shrew," "The Tempest" and "Cyrano de Bergerac." He returned to the festival for lead roles in the 1970s.

His notable projects include "Due South," "The Red Green Show" and "The Grand Seduction" as well as CBC programs like "The Forest Rangers," "Quentin Durgens, M.P." and "Street Legal." Pinsent also featured in American productions such as "It Takes a Thief," "Silence of the North" and the 1968 "Thomas Crown Affair."

Pinsent married Charmion King in 1962. The two remained wed until her death in January 2007 after a long struggle with emphysema.

Pinsent is survived by his three children, Leah, Barry and Beverly. (ANI)
The Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region generated $24.55 billion in green and sustainable finance for 2021, a 532% year-on-year escalation, which points to a strong ESG momentum across the region, says a report by Arthur D Little.

In the UAE alone, ESG reporting multiplied between 2019-2022 across major public and private institutions such as Dubai Financial Market, and more, says the report titled ESG Data Governance Viewpoint.

Between 2019 and 2022, the UAE recorded increasing ESG reporting across major public and private institutions such as Dubai Financial Market, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and publicly listed companies in SCA. Led by First Abu Dhabi Bank, Majid Al Futtaims fundraiser gathered $1.25 billion in 2022 as the credit facility linked to the companys ESG goals. Further, Dubai Islamic Bank is currently in progress of concluding its own reporting, spanning ethics and integrity, thriving workplace, positive community impact, environmental stewardship, and sustainable finance and investments.

UAE in the lead

Having witnessed a 32% YoY growth in its 2022 green and sustainable finance issuing, the UAE continues to build on its ESG momentum Mena wide.

Andreas Buelow, Partner, Arthur D. Little, said: ESG has become the new normal for financial institutions. Perhaps the most significant sign of this remains in the products and services being offered by banks, which reflect their sustainable ambitions. Green issuances from countries in the Middle East and North Africa are not standing still but are in fact outpacing global growth.

With new reporting requirements taking effect, banks are facing an urgent need to kick-start their strategies and execute concepts throughout their organisations. In implementing their ESG strategies, banks are finding that the complexity of ESG data has not been entirely captured and addressed by current data governance frameworks, leaving these banks to resort to ad hoc solutions for collecting, managing, and governing ESG data.

ESG strategies

Nael Amin, Senior Manager, Financial Services Practice, Arthur D. Little, added: Many financial institutions in the Middle East have designed comprehensive ESG strategies that open the door to new pathways to top-line growth, business opportunities, cost reductions, regulatory compliance, and employee satisfaction.

This growing trend demonstrates the momentum that ESG is gathering in financial institutions, as the worlds banks increasingly emphasise ESG and infuse it into their business models. Banks in the Middle East have embraced the importance of a well-defined ESG strategy. During the next step, implementation, frameworks such as data governance are vitally necessary. The shift from strategy to implementation is complex and detail oriented. Different use cases of ESG have different data requirements and multiple stakeholders who add to the complexity. Thus, there is no standard one size fits all in regard to ESG data.

Putting ESG strategies into action

The latest ADL Viewpoint calls for a two-part scalable solution to resolve the difficulties of complex data and enable banks to properly and efficiently manage ESG information. During the first step, an ESG data catalog is created to ensure transparency through a nondisruptive and easy-to-incorporate layer. Setting up a governance framework to ensure quality control in a scalable, structured approach is the second step.

As such, banks encounter unique challenges as they put their ESG strategies into action. A comprehensive ESG strategy covers a range of external and internal applications and can help financial institutions move toward the sustainable future they seek. Because data governance is central to a fully developed strategy, we propose a framework built around an ESG data catalog with the following three features:

*Emphasis on data transparency and quality that does not disrupt existing data landscape.

*Anticipation of future ESG-related needs.

*Support for handling complex data requirements in an ever-evolving regulatory environment.

So far, financial institutions in the UAE are continuing to embrace ESG, which is gaining momentum and wide-reaching acceptance. A well-developed, thoughtful approach that considers the framework outlined in ADLs latest Viewpoint can create the conditions for future success.-- TradeArabia News Service
It was an evening to remember for Hollywood star Brendan Fraser as he bagged the SAG Award in the Best Actor Male category on Sunday. 29th annual Screen Actors Guild Awards were held on Sunday night at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles to honor the year's best acting performances. Previously Fraser bagged the Best actor award at the 28th Critics Choice Award for his performance in 'The Whales'. "I treasure this, but never more than when I treasured what I used to keep in my wallet, which was my SAG card that I earned in 1991. It made me feel like I belonged. As actors, we all want to belong to a tribe and that's when I found where I belong. And if you told that guy back then that I'd be standing right here right now, I would not have believed you," he said in his acceptance speech on Sunday, as per The Hollywood Reporter. He added, "I wouldn't believe that I had a chance to work with world-class filmmakers like Darren Aronofsky (the film's director) and speak the words of empathy fountain that is Samuel D. Hunter (the film's writer) and incredible castmates. ... I never believed that I would have been offered the role of my life in this character -- Charlie in The Whale." Fraser's commitment to 'The Whale', in which he played an approx 250 kgs man who reckons with the limits of his reclusive life over a period of five days, has earned him multiple award nods, including a Golden Globe nomination. (ANI)
Director Vishal Bhardwaj is all set to come up with an adaptation of the renowned detective fiction mystery novel 'The Sittaford Mystery.' Titled 'Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley', Sony LIV's original is helmed by Bhardwaj's home banner - Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures along with Priti Shahani's Tusk Tale Films in association with Agatha Christie Limited. Set in the snow-capped mountains of Himachal Pradesh, the series will follow the journey of Charlie Chopra and her quest to uncover a deep mystery. Besides donning the hats of director and co-producer, Vishal Bhardwaj also serves as the show's co-screenwriter, alongside Anjum Rajabali and Jyotsna Hariharan. The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring Wamiqa Gabbi, Priyanshu Painyuli, Naseeruddin Shah, Neena Gupta, Ratna Pathak Shah, Gulshan Grover, Lara Dutta, Chandan Roy Sanyal, and Paoli Dam amongst others. This project marks Vishal Bhardwaj's OTT debut. Talking about this project Saugata Mukherjee, Head Content of Sony LIV said, "Detective fiction has been a perennial favourite with our audience and what better than an Agatha Christie novel. We are delighted to be bringing one of her classics 'The Sittaford Mystery' adapted rather skilfully in an Indian setting by none other than Vishal Bhardwaj. We are thrilled to have Vishal onboard as his ingenuity in adapting literary classics remains unrivalled." Vishal Bhardwaj, Director and Producer of Vishal Bhardwaj Films stated, "I grew up devouring all Agatha Christie mysterious tales. Her plots, characters and setting remain unparalleled in the genre and continue to excite storytellers even today. It has been an incredible journey collaborating with James Prichard , great grandson of Agatha Christie, who always brought unique perspectives to our team. Sony LIV and Priti Shahani have been the perfect partners for me to adapt this thrilling and mysterious world." Priti Shahani, Founder of Tusk Tale Films Private Limited said, "Working with Vishal Bhardwaj as the director of Sony LIV's adaptation of Agatha Christie's "The Sittaford Mystery" is truly an exciting journey. His ability to attract the right combination of talent and his artistry of bringing uniqueness and colour in each character make his stories truly captivating. This adaptation will be a beautiful representation of Agatha Christie's original work." James Prichard, CEO of Agatha Christie Limited said, "My great grandmother has many fans in India and I am really excited for them to enjoy this adaptation by Vishal Bhardwaj which takes the story of The Sittaford Mystery and reimagines it in India." James Prichard, Basi Akpabio and Leo Dezoysa will act as Executive Producers on the show on behalf of Agatha Christie Limited. (ANI)
Taking to Instagram, Bhumi dropped a video featuring the deleted scene from the movie.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CpJ10PLDvup/

Sharing the video, she wrote a long note, "Here is a deleted scene from my first love.Firsts are always special. Can't believe it has been 8 years already! I was so fortunate to have started my career as an actor with a film that broke the stereotype of how heroines were presented in Indian cinema."

She added, "I was proud to be the new @yrf heroine - real, authentic, proud, righteous, self-reliant, body-positive and a girl who was so so beautiful. Body-shaming is a big social evil. Let's celebrate every human being's right to individuality. #8YearsOfDumLagaKeHaisha."

Helmed by Sharat Katariya, 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha' revolves around a school dropout named Prem, essayed by Ayushmann Khurrana, who reluctantly marries the educated but overweight Sandhya (Bhumi). The couple came closer when they take part in a race, which involves Prem carrying Sandhya on his back.

'Dum Laga Ke Haisha', a critically acclaimed movie, received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.

The movie also featured Sanjay Mishra and Seema Pahwa in lead roles.

Meanwhile, Bhumi will be next seen in the social drama film 'Bheed,' Ajay Bahl's 'The Ladykiller,' Sudhir Mishra's 'Afwaa,' Gauri Khan produced 'Bhakshak,' Mudassar Aziz's 'Mere Husband Ki Biwi.' (ANI).
James Corden is all set to make a spectacular exit from 'The Late Late Show'. On Thursday, April 27, CBS intends to air the final hour of 'The Late Late Show,' which Corden has presided over since March 2015, and will add a primetime special that night to help honour the event, as per Variety. Tom Cruise is reuniting with James Corden for one final sketch before 'The Late Late Show' ends. According to the Hollywood Reporter, The CBS programme revealed that the Top Gun: Maverick actor is switching things up from his typical action-packed guest segments and joining the host for a musical performance during The Lion King at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood. Variety reports that in addition to guest stars who will appear with Corden over his final two months on the programme, CBS added that further information about the special will be revealed in the coming weeks. It was originally planned for Corden to be the fourth and last host of "The Late Late Show," which had its beginnings as a second late-night hour on CBS that would follow David Letterman and "The Late Show." Tom Snyder, Craig Kilborn, and Craig Ferguson had previously worked on the hour, which was produced by Letterman's Global Pants organisation. The Tom Cruise segment will be featured in a primetime special, the last Late Late Show, on April 27, which will air before the final episode of the late-night talk show later that night. The show also shared a sneak peek on its social media of Cruise dressed up as the lovable warthog and Corden holding a figure of the infamous meerkat. "Here's to finding the Pumbaa to your Timon," read a message posted to the talk show's official Instagram account. "And to one last sketch with @tomcruise before we turn out the lights on the #LateLateShow." The Mission: Impossible star has previously teamed up with Corden on the show for segments including piloting fighter jets and skydiving, which left the host terrified both times. The final episode of The Late Late Show with James Corden is set for April 27 at 12:37 p.m. The primetime special will premiere at 10 p.m. on CBS and Paramount+. The last show comes after Corden took over as host in 2015. According to Variety, Corden is leaving the show by choice and CBS is set to replace the hour with a reboot of "@midnight," the former Comedy Central wee-hours game show, in a manoeuvre that would cut costs. (ANI)
Shah Rukh Khan starrer 'Pathaan' infused a fresh lease of life into the Hindi film industry which was struggling to overcome the effects of the pandemic. Not only that, Shah Rukh Khan's success sets a precedent for the young breed of actors who always look up to Khan for inspiration. In a recent promotional event of 'Tu Jhooti Main Makkaar', in Kolkata, Ranbir Kapoor heaped praise on Shah Rukh for his commendable achievement. "What Pathaan has managed to do, the film industry needed it. Very happy and grateful that Pathaan has done that. And I think Shah Rukh Khan deserves all the success for Pathaan. I have seen him as an actor, I have been able to work with him several times. He gave so much to this industry. I am very proud of him," he added. In a recently released docu-series on Netflix, 'The Romantics', Ranbir has also opened up about the impact of the iconic character of 'Raj' (Played by SRK in 'Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge') on his growing-up years. "Raj was everything! You know, he could do anything! I think Aditya Chopra gave us a character, that was aspirational, he was naughty, he was charming, like it shook you up! I know I saw that film probably 20 times in the theatre," recollected Ranbir on the show. Ranbir, who has won everyone's heart with his romantic films like Bachna Ae Haseeno, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Rockstar, Tamaasha, to name a few, will now be seen romancing Shraddha Kapoor in 'Tu Jhooti Main Makkaar'. (ANI)
Hollywood star Tom Hiddleston is set to reprise his role as protagonist Jonathan Pine in the second Season of John le Carre adaptation 'The Night Manager', which is in the work. According to Deadline, the show's Season 2 will film later this year in London and South America under the codename 'Steelworks'. Although it's yet to be formally greenlit by Amazon and the BBC, the outlet has reported that it is set to receive a two-season order. Also, David Farr, who wrote the original, is back to write Season 2. Since the first season's conclusion in late 2016, there have been numerous rumours of a second, with the second season of The Ink Factory's adaption understood to be set in the present day. At the end of Season 1 after British arms dealer Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie) being taken away by the Syrians, Hiddleston's Pine is informed he is dead two years later, and he has to face up to a new, even more deadly challenge, reported GSM Arena. Pine, a former British soldier and night manager of a five-star hotel in Cairo, is hired by the head of a Foreign Office team to infiltrate Roper's inner circle. The first season's remarkable cast also included Olivia Colman, Tom Hollander, Elizabeth Debicki, and David Harewood. It was written by Farr and directed by Susanne Bier. As per Deadline, the Hindi adaptation of 'The Night Manager' starring Aditya Roy Kapur as Pine and Anil Kapoor as Roper launched earlier this month on Disney+ Hotstar, and Simon Cornwell recently told Deadline he's open to a second season for this version. (ANI)
Dharavathi Preethi, a post graduate medical student of Kakatiya Medical College in Telangana's Warangal town, succumbed at a hospital in Hyderabad on Sunday night, five days after she allegedly committed suicide due to harassment by her senior. Preethi, a first year student of the post graduate (MD) in the department of Anaesthesia, succumbed at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), where she was admitted on February 22 in a critical condition. The student had allegedly taken some injection while on duty at MGM Hospital in Warangal on February 22. All the efforts by the doctors at NIMS to save the girl proved futile. According to the NIMS Medical Superintendent, she succumbed at 9.10 p.m. He said despite continuous efforts by a multidisciplinary team of specialist doctors, she could not be saved. Preethi's family members, relatives and leaders of various political parties and people's organisations began to protest at the hospital demanding justice. The body will be shifted to Gandhi Hospital for autopsy. Police have beefed up security around the hospital as a precautionary measure. Warangal police on February 24 arrested Preethi's senior M.A. Saif, a second year student in the Department of Anaesthesia. Police said there targeted harassment of Preethi by her senior which could have driven her to attempt suicide. Police booked Saif for abetment to suicide. He was also booked under Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act and Anti-Ragging Act. Warangal Police Commissioner A.V. Ranganath said that insulting behavior also comes under ragging. According to police, Saif was making insulting comments about her in a WhatsApp group. On February 20, Preethi complained to her father D. Narendra about the harassment. He took up the issue with the police and subsequently the head of the department spoke to Saif and Preethi, separately, on February 21. The girl was on duty at MGM Hospital on the night of February 21. The next morning she was found unconscious by the hospital staff. She was admitted in the same hospital and after her condition deteriorated, she was shifted to NIMS in Hyderabad. Doctors and HODs told police that this could be due to cardiac arrest. They also informed the police that she had some health issues like thyroid. However, police suspect that the girl took some injection. "We have not reached to any conclusion but going by the chats and what had happened, we are of the opinion that it could have been a probable attempt to suicide." Ranganath said in the anesthesia emergency kit given to Preethi, the seal of succinylcholine injection was found intact. The injection is used for nervous and muscular relaxation. "Preethi had searched on Google what happens when a healthy person takes succinylcholine," the Commissioner said. Two injections in the kit were found open. Police suspect that she took Fentanyl. This injection is used to relieve severe pain during and after surgery. "We are waiting for a toxicology report," the Police Commissioner said. --IANS ms/vd ( 505 Words) 2023-02-26-22:38:02 (IANS)
After arresting Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Sunday said that the former was giving evasive replies and not cooperating in the investigation. The probe agency also said that Sisodia was earlier called on February 19 for investigation, but he sought time for seven days. "The Deputy CM was issued a notice under section 41A of CrPC for attending the investigation on February 19, 2023. However, he sought time of one week citing his pre-occupation. Accepting his request, he was issued a notice u/s 41A CrPC for attending the investigation on February 26, 2023, for answering various questions evaded by him during his examination on October 17, 2022, and further questions relating to his incriminating role based on evidence collected during investigation of the case. However, he gave evasive replies and did not co-operate the investigation despite being confronted with evidence to the contrary. Therefore, he has been arrested," the statement read. "The arrested accused will be produced before the Designated Court, Delhi," it added further. Sisodia was arrested by CBI on Sunday after eight-hour-long questioning in an ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy of GNCTD. Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. "Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal's rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP. Sisodia also visited Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Rajghat before his arrest. Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent. Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Manish is innocent. His arrest is dirty politics. There is a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Manish." "Everyone is watching. People are understanding everything. People will respond to this. This will boost our spirits further. Our struggle will get stronger," he added in the tweet (roughly translated from Hindi). In response to the arrest of their senior leader, Aam Aadmi Party will stage pan-India protests today. (ANI)
At least five persons have been wounded after a brawl broke out at a hotel here between the guests and the hotel staff over playing music after the permitted hours, an official said on Sunday, adding nine persons have been arrested in connection with the incident. The fight broke out when the guests demanded DJ at around 2 a.m., and the hotel management refused to entertain that request. In the wedding venues, playing music is generally allowed till 10 p.m. Among the injured, the condition of a woman is said to be serious, and she has been admitted to the ICU. DCP Ravi Kumar said that the brawl happened at Hotel The Grand IRS. In two videos of the incident that have gone viral, several people, including women, could be seen involved in a fight along with sticks in hand, attacking one another. High pitched voices and expletives could be heard while many people were seen lying injured on the ground with blood stains on the floor. According to a source, the guests had gathered at the hotel for a 'Cocktail Party' after the Haldi ceremony was held earlier in the day on Saturday. Meanwhile, the police said that it was also examining if permission was obtained from the Excise Department for the 'Cocktail Party'. According to a source, the hotel is owned by a BJP leader. --IANS pkt/pgh ( 243 Words) 2023-02-26-22:34:04 (IANS)
Trinamool leader in the Rajya Sabha Derek O'Brien, in a tweet, claimed that Sisodia would not have been arrested had he succumbed to the pressure of BJP.

Without naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, he termed Sisodia's arrest as a plot by the two top ministers of the Union cabinet.

In the tweet, O'Brien has also claimed that at a time when all the erstwhile allies of BJP have deserted the saffron camp, central agencies like the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax (IT) departments have remained the only allies of the ruling party at the Centre.

"If @msisodia had got himself a #BJP brand of washing machine, he would never been arrested. Bravo, Manis. Allies ShivSena, JD(U) & others have all abandoned BJP. Only CBI, ED, IT remain true allies. Targeting Opposition leaders is the Desperate DUO's favorite job," O'Brien's Twitter message read.

However, the BJP's state leadership ridiculed the Trinamool's expression of solidarity as an indirect attempt to divert attention from the fact the state's ruling party has been saddled with too many scams.

--IANS src/vd

( 227 Words)

2023-02-26-22:54:04 (IANS)
Standard Chartered Bank has announced the appointment of Muhannad Mukahall as the new Chief Executive Officer at Standard Chartered Bank Qatar.

Mukahall joined Standard Chartered in 2013 and has since held senior assignments including CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Jordan, Head of Global Banking in Jordan, and Head of Local Corporates in Abu Dhabi. Prior to joining Standard Chartered, Mukahall held multiple leadership roles at Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Arab Bank, HSBC Dubai and Jordan Kuwait Bank. Muhannad brings with him a wealth of regional experience that spans over 20 years.

Dr Boutros Klink, Chief Executive Officer for Standard Chartered Bank Middle East (ex UAE), said: With his deep banking and regional experience, Muhannad will lead the Standard Chartered Bank franchise in Qatar, strengthening the client base, expanding Standard Chartereds products and services offering, and solidifying the Banks network in support of the State of Qatars growth ambitions. Being the first bank in country since 1950, Standard Chartered Bank has been part of Qatars impressive development over the decades and hopes to continue contributing to its growth across sectors.

Mukahall said: Qatar is one of our strategic markets in the Middle East. I look forward to strengthening our relationships with our partners, delivering differentiated financial solutions and supporting the growth and development of the Qatari economy and community.-- TradeArabia News Service
After high-voltage campaigns, the poll battles in the two key northeastern states of Meghalaya and Nagaland reached their finality as voters will decide the fate of candidates on Monday. The voting in both states will begin at 7 am and will continue till 4 pm. In Meghalaya, over 21 lakh (21,75,236) electorates, including 10.99 lakh women and 10.68 lakh men will decide the fate of 369 candidates. There are about 81,000 first-time voters in the state. Polling will be held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies in the state. Of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Meghalaya, 36 fall in Khasi, Jaintia Hills region while 24 are in Garo Hills region. There are about 81,000 first-time voters in the state. As many as 369 candidates are in the fray of which 36 are women. Of the total candidates, 44 are contesting as Independents. The ruling National People's Party (NPP), which is seeking to return to power, might have to contend with the anti-incumbency factor this time. The current term of the 60-seat Meghalaya Legislative Assembly will conclude on March 15. The majority mark to form government in the state is 31. In the 2018 Assembly polls, the ruling National People's Party (NPP) got 19 seats, Congress bagged 21 seats and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to win two seats. The United Democratic Party (UDP) grabbed six seats. Though Congress emerged as the single largest party, the government was formed by the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) with support of the UDP, BJP and other regional parties. This time, the BJP and NPP have not stitched any prepoll alliance and are going solo. BJP and Congress have fielded candidates in all the seats. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), which became the main opposition party in Meghalaya in 2021 following the defection of 12 Congress MLAs, became a formidable force, especially after former chief minister Mukul Sangma joined its ranks. TMC fielded candidates in 58 seats. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is contesting from South Tura constituency while the BJP fielded Bernard N Marak against the NPP chief. In Dadenggre, Congress candidate Chesterfield Sangma is contesting against NPP's James Sangma. Former CM Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats -- Tikrikilla and Songsak on Trinamool's ticket. UDP leader Metbah Lyngdoh is contesting from Mairang. Further, NPP pitted Prestone Tynsong from Pynursla. UDP candidate Titosstar Well Chyne is contesting from Sohra. The TMC has fielded Charles Pyngrope from Nongthymmai. BJP fielded Sanbor Shullai in South Shillong and Ernest Mawrie in West Shillong. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh is the NPP's candidate from East Shillong. In Pynthorumkhrah, BJP fielded Alexander Laloo Hek. UDP leader Lahkmen Rymbui is contesting from Amlarem. In Sutnga Saipung, Congress fielded Vincent H Pala. UDP candidate Kyrmen Shylla is contesting from Khliehriat. From NPP to BJP and Congress to Trinamool, parties showcased all might when it comes to campaigning. Be it poll promises or attacking contending forces with slogans, none remained on the back foot. The Election Commission has deployed 119 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Meghalaya. Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya FR Kharkongor said 640 polling stations are identified as 'vulnerable', 323 are 'critical' and 84 are identified as both. However, in Nagaland, The BJP has already opened up its account in the State ahead of the polls as the party candidate Kazheto Kinimi won from the Akuluto seat uncontested after the Congress candidate withdrew his candidature. After the withdrawal of candidature by Khekashe Sumi, the Nagaland Assembly elections will witness a total of 183 candidates, in the fray. The candidates vying for the State polls include 20 from BJP, CPI (1), INC (23), NCP (12), NPP (12), NDPP (40), NPF (22), RPP (1), JD (U) (7), LJP (Ram Vilas) (15), RPI (Athawale) (9), RJD (3), and Independent (19). It is pertinent to mention only four out of 183 candidates in the fray this time are women. Since it was established in 1963, the state of Nagaland has seen 14 Assembly elections -- but never a woman MLA. A total of 13,17,632 voters, out of which 6,61,489 are male electors, and 6,56,143 are female will exercise their franchise to decide the fate of political parties and to elect their representatives of 60-members Nagaland Legislative Assembly. The counting of votes in both states will be done on March 2. (ANI)
As voting for the Assembly elections will begin today in the state, one of the prominent issues that affect people is unemployment. Over 21 lakh electorates will decide the fate of 369 candidates. When it comes to key poll issues, unemployment is a pet grouse and demand of the youth. All the parties promised jobs and the creation of election opportunities in their manifesto. NPP attacked the BJP with the long-pending issue of demanding an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Meghalaya. An Inner Line Permit is an official travel document issued by a state government to allow inward travel of a national into a protected area for a limited time. Another important in the Meghalaya polls is the Christian and Non-Christian, especially in the Khasi Hills region. Meghalaya BJP chief Ernest Mawrie on Friday said if BJP comes to power in the poll-bound state, they would not impose any restrictions on the people consuming beef. Ernest Mawrie told ANI that Meghalaya is a Christian-majority state and if BJP comes to power, it would provide more security to the Christians. "We will not impose any restriction on consuming beef in Meghalaya. If we will form the government, then it will be better for Meghalaya. We will give full protection to the Christians of Meghalaya. Eating habit is our culture, BJP will not impose any restrictions on them. Many of us eat pork, beef, chicken, and fish. There is no problem with our party. We have not held any discussions on this. There will be no restriction," Mawrie said. Polling will be held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies in the state. The voting will begin at 7 am and continue till 4 pm today. Of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Meghalaya, 36 fall in Khasi, Jaintia Hills region while 24 are in Garo Hills region. However, polling for the Sohiong Assembly constituency was postponed following the demise of the state's former Home minister and United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate from the seat, HDR Lyngdoh. There are over 21 lakh (21,75,236) registered and eligible voters this year of which 10.99 lakh are women and 10.68 lakh are men. In Meghalaya, the women voters number more than their male counterparts. There are about 81,000 first-time voters in the state. As many as 369 candidates are in the fray of which 36 are women. Of the total candidates, 44 are contesting as Independents. The ruling National People's Party (NPP), which is seeking to return to power, might have to contend with the anti-incumbency factor this time. The lack of Infrastructure development in remote and hilly regions remains one of the core poll issues this time. Further, allegations of corruption are also haunting the NPP government. Another factor that might have a bearing on the outcome of this year's polls is illegal coal mining in Jaintia and Khasi Hills. The current term of the 60-seat Meghalaya Legislative Assembly will conclude on March 15. The majority mark to form government in the state is 31. In the 2018 Assembly polls, the ruling National People's Party (NPP) got 19 seats, Congress bagged 21 seats and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to win two seats. The United Democratic Party (UDP) grabbed six seats. Though Congress emerged as the single largest party, the government was formed by the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) with support of the UDP, BJP and other regional parties. This time, the BJP and NPP have not stitched any prepoll alliance and are going solo. BJP and Congress have fielded candidates in all the seats. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), which became the main opposition party in Meghalaya in 2021 following the defection of 12 Congress MLAs, became a formidable force, especially after former chief minister Mukul Sangma joined its ranks. TMC fielded candidates in 58 seats. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is contesting from South Tura constituency while the BJP fielded Bernard N Marak against the NPP chief. In Dadenggre, Congress candidate Chesterfield Sangma is contesting against NPP's James Sangma. Former CM Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats -- Tikrikilla and Songsak on Trinamool's ticket. UDP leader Metbah Lyngdoh is contesting from Mairang. Further, NPP pitted Prestone Tynsong from Pynursla. UDP candidate Titosstar Well Chyne is contesting from Sohra. The TMC has fielded Charles Pyngrope from Nongthymmai. BJP fielded Sanbor Shullai in South Shillong and Ernest Mawrie in West Shillong. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh is the NPP's candidate from East Shillong. In Pynthorumkhrah, BJP fielded Alexander Laloo Hek. UDP leader Lahkmen Rymbui is contesting from Amlarem. In Sutnga Saipung, Congress fielded Vincent H Pala. UDP candidate Kyrmen Shylla is contesting from Khliehriat. The campaigning for Meghalaya polls ended on Saturday. From NPP to BJP and Congress to Trinamool, parties showcased all might when it comes to campaigning. Be it poll promises or attacking contending forces with slogans, none remained on the back foot. BJP showed its strength with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, party president JP Nadda and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma holding rallies. PM Modi also held a roadshow in Shillong on Friday. Rahul Gandhi, who was missing from the campaign scene in Tripura, held a rally in Shillong. Trinamool supremo Mamata Banerjee held public meetings in Meghalaya. TMC MP Mahua Moitra also ran campaigning for the party in the state. The Election Commission has deployed 119 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Meghalaya. Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya FR Kharkongor said 640 polling stations are identified as 'vulnerable', 323 are 'critical' and 84 are identified as both. Election Commission on Saturday ordered the sealing of Meghalaya's International border with Bangladesh till March 2. Meghalaya has shared a 443 km border with Bangladesh and 885 km with Assam. Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya FR Kharkongor, told ANI that Meghalaya's international border with Myanmar and the state border with Assam have been sealed. "We have taken preventive measures to ensure a free and fair election in the State. Section 144 of CrPC has been imposed along the international bordering areas in the state," Kharkongor said. Meanwhile, the district magistrate of East Khasi Hills district on Friday issued an order that movement of individuals will remain strictly prohibited within a one km radius of the India-Bangladesh border of East Khasi Hills district between February 24 and March 2. The district administration of East Khasi Hills district has also imposed Section 144 of CrPC along the bordering areas. To ensure a free and fair election, Election Commission has banned exit polls in Meghalaya from 7 am on Friday to 7 pm on the polling day ie February 27. The counting of votes will be done on March 2. (ANI)
As the voting in 59 out of 60 Assembly constituencies is to be held today in Meghalaya, around 19000 polling personnel have been stationed on poll duty. The officials have said that security arrangements have been beefed up for controlling the law and order situation in the state. "11 Zonal magistrates, 73 sector magistrates and nearly 30 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies have been deployed in the district for conducting the smooth election. Each polling team has four personnel. 30 CAPF companies have deployed in vulnerable and critical polling stations," the Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills district told ANI on Sunday. The CEO of Meghalaya said that around 19000 polling personnel and staff have been deployed in the election process. The Election Commission has deployed 119 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Meghalaya. Out of the total of 3419 polling stations, 640 have been identified as 'vulnerable', 323 are 'critical' and 84 are identified as both. In the state, over 21 lakh (21,75,236) electorates, including 10.99 lakh women and 10.68 lakh men will decide the fate of 369 candidates. There are about 81,000 first-time voters in the state. Polling will be held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies in the state. Of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Meghalaya, 36 fall in Khasi, Jaintia Hills region while 24 are in Garo Hills region. There are about 81,000 first-time voters in the state. As many as 369 candidates are in the fray of which 36 are women. Of the total candidates, 44 are contesting as Independents. The ruling National People's Party (NPP), which is seeking to return to power, might have to contend with the anti-incumbency factor this time. The current term of the 60-seat Meghalaya Legislative Assembly will conclude on March 15. The majority mark to form government in the state is 31. In the 2018 Assembly polls, the ruling National People's Party (NPP) got 19 seats, Congress bagged 21 seats and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to win two seats. The United Democratic Party (UDP) grabbed six seats. Though Congress emerged as the single largest party, the government was formed by the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) with support of the UDP, BJP and other regional parties. This time, the BJP and NPP have not stitched any prepoll alliance and are going solo. BJP and Congress have fielded candidates in all the seats. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), which became the main opposition party in Meghalaya in 2021 following the defection of 12 Congress MLAs, became a formidable force, especially after former chief minister Mukul Sangma joined its ranks. TMC fielded candidates in 58 seats. Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is contesting from South Tura constituency while the BJP fielded Bernard N Marak against the NPP chief. In Dadenggre, Congress candidate Chesterfield Sangma is contesting against NPP's James Sangma. Former CM Mukul Sangma is contesting from two seats -- Tikrikilla and Songsak on Trinamool's ticket. UDP leader Metbah Lyngdoh is contesting from Mairang. Further, NPP pitted Prestone Tynsong from Pynursla. UDP candidate Titosstar Well Chyne is contesting from Sohra. The TMC has fielded Charles Pyngrope from Nongthymmai. BJP fielded Sanbor Shullai in South Shillong and Ernest Mawrie in West Shillong. Mazel Ampareen Lyngdoh is the NPP's candidate from East Shillong. In Pynthorumkhrah, BJP fielded Alexander Laloo Hek. UDP leader Lahkmen Rymbui is contesting from Amlarem. In Sutnga Saipung, Congress fielded Vincent H Pala. UDP candidate Kyrmen Shylla is contesting from Khliehriat. From NPP to BJP and Congress to Trinamool, parties showcased all might when it comes to campaigning. Be it poll promises or attacking contending forces with slogans, none remained on the back foot. (ANI)
Two Border Security Force (BSF) jawans received severe injuries after they were attacked by Bangladeshi miscreants and villagers while performing duty in the security of Indian farmers on the international border. BSF has raised the matter with Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) and called for a flag meeting. In a statement, BSF informed that the incident took place in the area of Border Out Post Nirmalchar, 35 Battalion under the Berhampore Sector of Bengal Frontier. According to Indian farmers' complaints, Bangladeshi farmers enter Indian farmers' fields to graze their cattle and deliberately damage their crops. To ensure the safety of the Indian farmers, the BSF jawans had temporarily set up a post near the border. On Sunday, BSF jawans of Border Out Post Nirmalchar were on duty on the border when they stopped Bangladeshi farmers from bringing their cattle to the fields of Indian Farmers. Immediately more than a hundred villagers and miscreants from Bangladesh entered the Indian side and attacked the jawans with sticks and sharp-edged weapons (Dahs). "Two jawans were seriously injured in the attack. The miscreants fled to Bangladesh after snatching their weapons," the statement reads. Upon receiving the information, more BSF Jawans reached the site of the incidents and the injured jawans were immediately evacuated to the nearest hospital for treatment. The BSF officials immediately informed the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) officials about the incident and asked them to organize a flag meeting so that the weapons of the jawans could be recovered from the Bangladeshi miscreants and the repetition of the incident could be prevented. In the past, there have been many incidents of Indian farmers' crops being destroyed and Bangladeshis forcibly grazing their cattle on Indian land. The BGB has been notified about these incidents, but no concrete action has been taken to stop such incidents. BSF has lodged an FIR against the unknown Bangladeshi attackers at Police Station Ranitala.A spokesperson from South Bengal Frontier informed about the incident told that when smugglers and people with criminal intent do not get success in their illegal activities across the border, they attack the jawans. "BSF jawans have been attacked several times in the past by miscreants and their accomplices in a planned manner, but still, the jawans do not let their plans succeed. The area of Nirmalchar is very difficult, and despite the lack of facilities, the BSF jawans are guarding the border day and night. Indian Farmers have been complaining about the theft and damage of their crop by BD villagers and this time BSF has set a forward post to protect them while working in their field," said a spokesperson. (ANI)
The charas packet, recovered by BSF, seems to have been carried by the sea waves from the Pakistan side and reached the Indian Coast.

"'Arabica Premium Egoiste Cafe, Velvet' is written on the packaging of the recovered packet," said BSF officials.

The BSF launched an extensive search operation in the coastal area following the recovery.

Further details are awaited in the matter. (ANI)
A voter turnout of 17.17 per cent was recorded in Nagaland till 9 am as the polling began amid tight security today, informed Election Commission of India. The polls would seal the electoral fates of 183 candidates across parties. According to the data given by the Election Commission of India, Chumoukedima was at 17.59 per cent, Dimapur was at 14.45 per cent, Kiphire was at 24.74 per cent, Kohima was at 20.12 per cent, Longleng was at 11.93 per cent, Mokokchung was at 17.18 per cent, Mon at 21.27 per cent, Noklak at 18.98 per cent, Peren at 15.91 per cent, Phek at 20.37 per cent, Pughoboto at 25.06 per cent, Shamator at 16.00 per cent, Tseminyu at 19.72 per cent, Tuensang 15.30 per cent, Wokha at 11.61 per cent, Zunheboto at 9.91 per cent. The polling began in 59 Assembly constituencies at 7 am this morning amid tight security. The polling will continue till 4 pm. The voting is underway in 59 out of 60 Assembly constituencies, as BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi was declared winner uncontested from Zunheboto district's Akuluto constituency after his opponent from the Congress, N Khekashe Sumi, pulled out of the race on the last day for withdrawal of nominations, which was February 10. In Monday's polls, the BJP is contesting in alliance with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), its old alliance partner in the 2018 Assembly polls as well. The BJP is, however, having the role of a junior partner, having agreed to a seat-sharing ratio of 20:40 in the state. The Congress and Naga People's Front are contesting in 23 and 22 seats respectively. The CPI is contesting on 1, NCP on 12, NPP 12, RPP 1, JD(U) 7, LJP (Ram Vilas) 15, RPI (Athawale) 9, RJD 3, and Independents 19 seats. The party had forged an alliance with the NDPP in 2018 and had successfully formed an alliance government with the backing of Janata Dal (United) and an Independent. The BJP had won 12 seats while NDPP had registered a win on the 17 seats, while the JD(U) clinched 1 seat.There are a total of 13,17,632 electorate in Nagaland, of which 6,61,489 are men and 6,56,143 are women. A total of 2,351 polling stations have been set up in the state. According to the Election Commission, 305 companies from various security forces have been deployed at the polling stations across the state to ensure a smooth and fair voting process.The counting of votes will take place on March 2 along with Tripura and Meghalaya. (ANI)
The junior medical student from Warangal's Kakatiya Medical Collaboration, who was admitted to hospital following a suicide bid on February 22, died on Sunday night. The student, who was admitted to Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad, died at 9.10 pm on Sunday. A statement issued by NIMS hospital read, "In continuation to the health update of Dr Preethi, despite continues efforts of Multidisciplinary team of Specialist Doctors, she could not be saved and (was) declared dead on 26/02/2023 at 9:10 pm." Further details are awaited. On February 22, the junior doctor allegedly tried to kill herself by self-administering some injections at the Kakatiya Medical College, AV Ranganath, Warangal police commissioner, said. She was undergoing treatment at NIMS, Hyderabad and her condition was said to be critical, doctors said. The Warangal commissioner added that the victim was a first-year PG student at Kakatiya Medical College (KMC) in Warangal. "She was last seen at the emergency OP while she was on duty and later, she left her room informing other doctors that she was experiencing a headache and stomach ache. She was later found in an unconscious state," the commissioner said. On February 24, Commissioner Ranganath said, "A second-year medical student of MJM Hospital has been arrested in connection with the death of first-year female medical student on February 22. We have booked him under SC/ST Act & Anti-Ragging Act." "Social media and personal chats between the two establish that she was subjected to ragging. Further investigation will be conducted once the toxicology report (which determines the presence of drugs or a foreign substance in a dead body)," the Warangal commissioner said. The victim's family members alleged that she was harassed by a senior male doctor. The victim's father lodged a complaint with the police claiming that a senior PG doctor had been harassing her for the last few days and evetually drove her to take the extreme step. Police said they were probing the matter from all angles. (ANI)
The operation was carried out by a combined team of Assam Rifles and Customs Preventive Force, Champhai based on specific information under the aegis of Inspector General Assam Rifles (East).

The approximate cost of the recovered heroin is 13.3 Crore, informed the officials.

The seized consignment was handed over to Customs Preventive Force, Champhai on February 26 for further legal proceedings.

The ongoing smuggling of illegal drugs is a major cause of concern for Mizoram.

Earlier, Aizawl Battalion of 23 Sector Assam Rifles recovered 51.550 gm of heroin worth over Rs 25 lakh in the general area of Kulikawn, Aizwal, Mizoram on 20 February and apprehended two individuals, one of whom was a Myanmar national. The operation was carried out by a combined team of Assam Rifles and Special Narcotics Police CID (SB), Aizawl.

"On 20 Feb 2023 at about 04.00 pm, during the course of search of the vehicle, four soap cases (51.550 gm) of suspected Heroin No. 4 with approx cost of Rs 25,77,500 was recovered by the joint team. The joint team apprehended two individuals and seized the consignment which was taken into custody for further legal proceedings," an official statement had said earlier in the month.

On February 16, the Mizoram Police said that they have recovered arms and ammunition from the Zawngling area of the state's Saiha district in a joint operation with Assam Rifles. (ANI)
The Aam Aadmi Party is set to hold a protest against the BJP over the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the liquor scam case. The party said it will stage a protest outside the BJP headquarters here today in connection with the matter. CBI had arrested Sisodia yesterday after eight hours of interrogation and is set to produce him in court today to seek his custody. AAP leader Saurabh Bharadwaj today claimed that the party leaders who were detained yesterday have been arrested and will be produced before the court. "The Centre has broken all limits of democracy. It arrested Manish Sisodia without any proof due to political reasons. You have arrested the entire leadership of our party except for Arvind Kejriwal and some others. Many of the leaders are detained since last afternoon. Under which sections are they detained for so long? The police will produce them before the court because the police have shown their arrest," Bharadwaj told ANI. He further claimed that the government has arrested the entire leadership of the AAP."It is not detention but arrest under the instructions of the Centre. The police have arrested the entire leadership. We will protest outside the BJP office today as all the instructions are being given from there," he claimed. Meanwhile, BJP MP Parvesh Verma said that the AAP did not even once defend its liquor policy yesterday. "Yesterday, nobody including Kejriwal said that their policy was good. They did not defend their policy. He should answer on the liquor scam. It is a win of the people of Delhi. I congratulate CBI for arresting the mastermind of the scam after a long investigation. Kejriwal has been safe because he does not head any department despite being the Chief Minister. His move was giving all the departments to his ministers, and those going to jails will also be the ministers so that he can be safe," he said while speaking to ANI. The CBI on Sunday had said that Sisodia was giving evasive replies and not cooperating in the investigation. The probe agency also said that Sisodia was earlier called on February 19 for investigation, but he sought time for seven days. "The Deputy CM was issued a notice under section 41A of CrPC for attending the investigation on February 19, 2023. However, he sought time of one week citing his pre-occupation. Accepting his request, he was issued a notice u/s 41A CrPC for attending the investigation on February 26, 2023, for answering various questions evaded by him during his examination on October 17, 2022, and further questions relating to his incriminating role based on evidence collected during investigation of the case. However, he gave evasive replies and did not co-operate the investigation despite being confronted with evidence to the contrary. Therefore, he has been arrested," the statement read. "The arrested accused will be produced before the Designated Court, Delhi," it added further.Sisodia was arrested by CBI on Sunday after eight-hour-long questioning in an ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy of GNCTD. Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. (ANI)
In the firing line of Opposition in the wake of the violence at Ajnala in Amritsar district, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sought to dispel fears of a deteriorating law and order situation claiming the clashes were an attempt by neighbouring Pakistan to stoke tensions and disturb peace in the border state. Speaking at a press conference in Bhavnagar, Gujarat on Sunday, the Punjab chief minister said "1,000 people" (followers of alleged Khalistani sympathiser Amritpal Singh, who besieged the Ajnala police station to free a jailed fellow member of radical outfit 'Waris Punjab De') do not represent Punjab, adding that they were funded by Pakistan in a bid to disturb peace in the state. Mann's remarks came after thousands of followers of the alleged pro-Khalistan outfit stormed the Ajnala police station, flashing swords and high-calibre firearms, on February 23, threatening the police with dire consequences if they did not release Lovepreet Toofan, who was arrested for allegedly assaulting and abducting a man. On alleged pro-Khalistan slogans being raised and the deteriorating law and order situation in his state, Mann said, "Do you consider 1,000 people as representing the entire Punjab? Come to Punjab and see who are raising such slogans. It's just a few people funded by foreign powers, especially Pakistan. Rajasthan shares a bigger boundary with Pakistan than Punjab. Why aren't drones (from Pakistan) sent there? Why are they all coming to Punjab? Their handlers want to disturb peace in Punjab." He stressed peace prevails in Punjab and his government was driving the state towards development. "Punjab will not be disturbed. There is peace in the state. The Punjab government is taking the state towards progress," the CM said. However, former Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, on February 23, expressed grave concern over the Ajnala incident. "This is not just a complete collapse of the law and order situation in Punjab, but more serious than that," Capt Amarinder said earlier, pointing out that the incident has serious security implications for the state and the country. A day after the clashes, Mann, on February 24, claimed that the law and order situation was under control. Punjab's Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav, said earlier appropriate action will be taken against the people involved in the violence. "As far as yesterday's incident is concerned, appropriate action will be taken. The video footage is being analysed. The SP was injured and was administered 11 stitches. Five other Police personnel were also injured. Their statement will be recorded and further legal action will be taken," the DGP said on February 24. Terming the attack on policemen as cowardly, the DGP added, "Police worked with utmost restraint considering the sanctity of the Guru Granth Sahib. An attack on the police in the cover of the Guru Granth Sahib was an act of cowardice." (ANI)
The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) yesterday (February 26) signed an agreement with Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry to set up an integrated logistics park at Al Khumrah in the south of Jeddah at a total cost of SR1 billion ($266 million).

Spread over a 3-sq-km area, the key facility comprises three zones that include shared warehouses, medium-sized storage yards and single warehouses as well as large storage yards and on-demand warehouses.

According to Mawani, the various zones fulfill importers and exporters requirements of stocking multipurpose cargo, chilled and frozen goods, food commodities, and fragile goods while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

In addition, the logistics park will have dedicated areas for administrative, commercial and residential use as well as a one-stop services centre, it stated.

"The park offers move-in-ready warehouses, storage yards, re-export zones, custom storage, logistics amenities, commercial units, residential units, and staff accommodation in addition to state-of-the-art infrastructure like roads and green spaces as well as a host of other essential services," said a company spokesman.

The logistics development will further bolster Mawanis role as a key player in the national transportation ecosystem and boost its drive to position the kingdom as a global logistics destination.

"This in line with the ambitions of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), alongside realising the outcomes of the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP) that aim to transform Al Khumrah into a world-leading platform for logistics and supply chain activities," he stated.

Designed for optimum asset utilisation, the park is set to create over 10,000 direct and indirect job opportunities in the logistics sector while strengthening Jeddah Islamic Ports pivotal position as a major maritime hub delivering top-tier services and increased throughput capacity, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The Delhi Police on Monday said that effective and robust police arrangements are in place to maintain any law and order situation ahead of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) protests outside Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) Headquarters today. Special Commissioners of Police (CP) (Law and Order) Dependra Pathak said, "Effective and robust police arrangement is in place on the ground to maintain law and order situation." Aam Aadmi Party is set to hit roads and stage protests across the country on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case. AAP's national General Secretary Sandeep Pathak said that they will protest across the country on Monday. The party will also stage protests at the Bharatiya Janata Party's Headquarters at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg in the national capital at around 12 pm on Monday. It is believed that the party will also hold protests in Gujarat's Gandhinagar, Haryana's Rohtak, Noida, etc. Sisodia was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation after eight hours of questioning in the now-scrapped excise policy case. Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, the Deputy Chief Minister said false cases are being lodged against leaders of the party as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. "Conspiracies are being hatched by the CBI and ED and false cases being lodged against our party leaders because PM Narendra Modi is afraid of CM Arvind Kejriwal's rising popularity. As AAP grows further, BJP will continue to slap false cases on us. We are not afraid of the CBI, ED and their false cases," Sisodia said, claiming that people were starting to regard the AAP as an alternative to the BJP. Sisodia also visited Mahatma Gandhi's memorial Rajghat before his arrest. Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday said that it will hear on March 21 the petitions challenging the Centre's decision dated November 17, 2022, whereby the government had extended for the third time the tenure of director of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) Sanjay Kumar Mishra. A bench of justices BR Gavai and Aravind Kumar listed the matter for March 21. Last week, the Centre in its affidavit defended its decision to extend the tenure of the ED director and said that petition challenging it is motivated and urged the top court to dismiss the plea. The Central government submission came on an affidavit filed countering the submission of the petition challenging the extension of the ED director. Centre informed the SC that the petition is clearly motivated by an oblique personal interest rather than any public interest litigations. The Centre also said that the petition is a misuse of Article 32 of the Constitution, which is clearly being filed in a representative capacity for and on behalf of the President and the office bearers of the Indian National Congress, who are being investigated by ED and are otherwise fully competent to approach respective courts for appropriate statutory relief and remedy under the Code of Criminal Procedure. Centre said the petition has been filed for espousing the cause of her political masters when there is nothing barring the concerned persons who are under investigation from approaching the competent court for any appropriate relief. Centre submitted that the present Writ Petition, styled as a Public Interest Litigation, is clearly motivated and is admittedly intended to scuttle the legitimate statutory investigation being carried out by the Directorate of Enforcement against certain politically exposed persons. Centre said that the real motive of the petition is to question the investigation being carried out against the President and certain office bearers of the Indian National Congress Party Centre submitted that it is a well-known fact that the menace of corruption, black money and international financial crime and its intricate links with drugs, terrorism and other criminal offences pose a serious threat to national security and the stability of the financial systems of our country. Further, corruption in public life often has the consequence of the economic and social rights of common people being violated. Centre said these facts in reply to a petition filed by the General Secretary of the Madhya Pradesh Mahila Congress Committee Jaya Thakur through advocate Varun Thakur and advocate Shashank Ratnoo. The petitioner Jaya Thakur has said the extension has been granted despite the matter being subjudice and initial adverse order against the respondent ED Director SK Mishra in another petition filed by activist Jaya Thakur in the Supreme Court of India. The petitioner has challenged the Centre decision dated November 17, 2022, whereby the govt has extended the third tenure of the director of Enforcement Directorate SK Mishra. The petitioner said that democracy is a part of the basic structure of our Constitution and rule of law and free and fair elections are basic features of democracy. "The respondents destroyed the basic structure of democracy by misusing the enforcement agencies against the political opponent. The Supreme Court in a number of the cases held that appointment in Enforcement Agencies must be fair and transparent manners if their appointment will be done in biased nature, then they can be used as tools," the petition said. (ANI)
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma cast his vote at Walbakgre -29 polling station in Tura, Garo Hills in the ongoing Assembly polls in the state and exuded confidence in the result being in his favour. He expressed satisfaction on the voter turnout in the polls and said that this was never seen in the past. "People coming out in large no. to vote. This is good for democracy. I've not seen this kind of voter turnout in the past. We are confident that it'll be in our favour," he said. Miani D Shira - TMC candidate from Ampati and daughter of former CM Mukul Sangma, cast her vote. The voter turnout in the Meghalaya assembly elections was recorded at 26.70 per cent till 11 am, informed the Election Commission of India. The polling started at 7 am and will continue till 4 pm. As per the ECI, the highest voter turnout was recorded in Eastern West Khasi Hills at 36.96 per cent. "East Garo Hills recorded at 29.32 per cent, East Jaintia Hills was at 30.05 per cent, East Khasi Hills 28.95 per cent, Eastern West Khasi Hills 36.96 per cent, North Garo Hills at 20.53 per cent, Ri-Bhoi was at 19.86 per cent, South Garo Hills at 16.65 per cent, South West Garo Hills at 26.59 per cent, South West Khasi Hills at 22.51 per cent, West Garo Hills at 23.38 per cent, West Jaintia Hills at 32.03 per cent, West Khasi Hills at 27.15 per cent," read the official data from EC. Polling is being held at 3,419 polling stations across 59 Assembly constituencies in the state.Of the 60 Assembly constituencies in Meghalaya, 36 constituencies fall in Khasi, Jaintia Hills region while 24 are in Garo Hills region. Significantly, however, polling for the Sohiong Assembly constituency was postponed following the demise of the state's former Home Minister and United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate from the seat HDR Lyngdoh. There are over 21 lakh electorates (21,75,236) of which 10.99 lakh are women and 10.68 lakh are male voters. The Election Commission has deployed 119 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in Meghalaya. The counting of votes will be done on March 2. (ANI)
The by-election to West Bengal's Sagardighi assembly seat was necessitated after the death of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Subrata Saha in December 2022.

The TMC and BJP fielded Debashish Banerjee and Dilip Saha respectively. The Left-supported Congress candidate is Bayron Biswas.

Earlier in January, the Election Commission announced the schedule for the bye-elections to six assembly seats across five states.

Bye-elections to one assembly constituency, each in Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and two assembly constituencies in Maharashtra are also being held today. The parliamentary constituency of Lakshadweep will also vote in bypolls today.

The counting of votes to all bypolls will be held on March 2.

Meanwhile, assembly elections are also underway in the northeastern states of Meghalaya and Nagaland. (ANI)
The Central government has sought nominations for Senior Mission Leaders' (SML) course to be held in Japan's capital Tokyo from June 19 to 30 this year. The SML course is designed to prepare participants to assume roles and responsibilities in a mission's leadership team, such as Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG), Deputy SRSG, Force Commander, Police Commissioner, Director of Mission Support, or Chief of Staff. The course is also intended to deepen the understanding of Member State officials of contemporary United Nations peace operations. For the 12-day course, the Ministry of Hime Affairs (MHA) issued a letter last week to the Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police of all states and the Union Territories (UTs). According to the letter, the nomination of eligible and willing officers-- one male and one female-- of the rank of Inspector General and Additional Director General active in police service for the course is sought by March 24. "Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations (PMI to UN) has informed about the invitation received from Integrated Training Service Division's (UNHQ, New York), vide which nomination of three candidates, one candidate each from the military, police and civilian domains is invited for the Senior Mission Leaders' (SML) Course to be held in Tokyo, Japan from 19 to 30 June 2023," the letter stated. The letter was attached with the objectives along with the required eligibility criteria and financial conditions for the course for reference. It is strongly recommended to nominate those police officers who meet the criteria outlined in attached communication from the United Nations. As per requirements, all the costs associated with the candidate's participation including travel, visa and daily subsistence allowance have to be borne by the nominating department, organizations, state and UTs. Nomination of eligible and willing officers -- one male and one female police officers of the rank of Inspector General and Additional Director General active in police service for the course can be forwarded through proper channel to the MHA by March 24 along with requisite documents duly signed and completed in all respects. "The duly completed and signed Personal History Profile, Human Rights (HR) certificate along with forwarding letter including APAR and ACR gradings of Last Five Years(Mandatory) of the nominated candidates are required to be submitted (PDF format only) through E-mail at police2-un@mha.gov.in before the last date March 24," mentions the letter. Besides Chief Secretaries of states and the UTs, the letter was sent to the Director of Intelligence Bureau, Central Bureau of Investigation, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Special Protection Group, North Eastern Police Academy, National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, Central Forensic Science Laboratories, Directorate of Coordination Police Wireless. A similar letter was also sent to the Directors General Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Central Industrial Security Force, National Security Guard, Railway Police Force, Bureau of Police Research and Development, Sashastra Seema Bal, Narcotics Control Bureau, National Investigation Agency and Assam Rifles. The Integrated Training Service of the Department of Peace Operations (DPO), jointly with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and the Hiroshima Peacebuilders Centre, will conduct the United Nations Senior Mission Leaders' (SML) course in Tokyo, Japan, from June 19 to 30, 2023. The course will be funded by the government of Japan. A total of 26 participants will be selected. Selection is competitive, based on the professional profiles and seniority of the candidates as well as their motivation; every attempt is made to ensure gender balance, geographical diversity, and representation of non-uniformed and uniformed mix in the group. Candidates nominated for the course should have a strong interest in potential appointment to a senior leadership position in a United Nations field mission. (ANI)
Communist Party of India (Marxist) senior leader Polit Bureau member Brinda Karat on Monday slammed the Centre for arresting Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in the Delhi excise policy scam case and said that the government is misusing the agencies as a 'Trishul' to target Opposition-ruled states and leaders. Speaking to ANI, Brinda Karat said, "We strongly condemn Manish Sisodia's arrest. If the BJP can't defeat politically on the basis of votes, then CBI, ED and IT are used as a Trishul to target the Opposition leaders or where the opposition government is running." Brinda Karat further said that Sisodia's arrest was a part of BJP's "national policy" of targeting the Opposition leaders using the probe agencies. "Manish Sisodia was arrested because it is the BJP's national policy, if you can't do anything, then you are targeting the opposition leaders and the governments that are running under the leadership of the Opposition," she said. Meanwhile, the CBI on Sunday released a statement on Sisodia's arrests, claiming he was giving evasive replies and wasn't cooperating in the ongoing investigation in the liquor scam case. The agency further said Sisodia had been summoned earlier on February 19 in connection with the ongoing probe, but had sought a week's time citing the Delhi Budget. "The Deputy CM was issued a notice under section 41A of CrPC for attending the investigation on February 19, 2023. However, he sought time of one week citing his preoccupation," the CBI stated. Accepting his request, he was issued a notice -- u/s 41A CrPC -- to report to the agency on February 26 and answer questions he 'evaded' during his examination on October 17, 2022, and further questions relating to his 'incriminating role' based on evidence collected during the investigation of the case. "However, he gave evasive replies and did not co-operate with the investigation despite being confronted with evidence to the contrary. Therefore, he has been arrested," the statement read. "The arrested accused will be produced before the designated court in Delhi," it added further. Meanwhile, in a stunning claim in connection with the arrest of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday claimed that most CBI officers were "against" the former's arrest due to lack of evidence, but were compelled to do so owing to the "pressure" borne on them by their "political masters". His remark comes a day after Sisodia was arrested by the premier central probe agency in connection with the Delhi liquor policy scam case. Sisodia, who also handles the Finance portfolio, was arrested after eight hours of questioning. "I am told that most CBI officers were against Manish's arrest. All of them have huge respect for him and there is no evidence against him. But the political pressure to arrest him was so high that they had to obey their political masters," Kejriwal tweeted. (ANI)
The Madhya Pradesh Budget Session started with Governor Mangubhai Patel's address on Monday. The governor highlighted the keynote work done in the state while speaking in the state assembly. This budget session will be continued till March 27. Governor Patel said, "The budget of our government is the budget of 'Amrit Kaal'. A separate budget has been given for the Ken Betwa link project. Solar park project is being developed. Global Investors Summit is the achievement of the state government. About 29 lakh employment opportunities will be created with the investment proposals." New airports are being built at Singrauli, Rewa and Gwalior district in the state. Irrigation projects have been started in over 43 lakh hectares. Investments are being made in Ratlam, Pithampur, Dewas, Ujjain. The Indore Pithampur corridor is being developed, he added. He also said, "The state government has constituted a Backward Classes Commission. A separate scheme has also been made for providing employment to people belonging to backward class and minority class. Besides, a self employment scheme has been started for free nomads. PESA rules have been implemented for the tribal people in the state." The state government is going to start Mukhyamantri Ladli Behna Yojana for the empowerment of the women in the state, he added. Recently, the MP cabinet has approved the scheme and it will be launched on March 5. The applications will be filled from March 15. The task of filling the application will be completed in March and April. The verification will be done in May. After that the money will be deposited in the accounts of beneficiaries from June 10. Talking about the Ladli Laxmi Yojana, Governor Patel said, "Since the launch of Ladli Laxmi Yojana, 44 lakh daughters have been benefited till now. Besides, advertisements have been issued for employment for over one lakh government posts." More than 24 lakh patients have been treated under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. 12 new medical colleges will be opened in the state, the Governor said, adding that 23,000 acres of land were freed from land mafias in the state. The state government has constructed Mahakal Mahalok in Ujjain. A statue of Adi Guru Shankaracharya is being made in Omkareshwar. The pilgrims will be made to travel through flight in the Chief Minister Tirth Darshan Yojana, he said. Indore and Bhopal have made a place in the country in the field of cleanliness. Madhya Pradesh is going to be a leading state in the implementation of smart city projects, the governor added. (ANI)
The polling for the tightly-contested Erode East bypoll began at 7 am.

Significantly, a total of 77 candidates across political affiliations are vying for the prized Assembly constituency.

However, the bypoll is being essentially seen as a tight race between Congress candidate EVKS Elangovan and AIADMK's Thennarasu.

Elangovan is contesting the bypoll with the support of the DMK, which is also Congress' bigger partner in the ruling alliance.

After the recent Supreme Court ruling, which allowed him to remain at the helm of the AIADMK, former Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami has a chance to emerge as a tall leader and reaffirm his hold on the party if the outcome of the Erode bypoll goes his way.

However, the AIADMK faces a stiff contest from the ruling DMK in the battle for the prized seat, with the Naam Tamizlar Katchi (NTK), the Desiya Morpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and several other players also in the fray.

A total of 1206 officers, 286 presiding officers, 858 polling officers and 62 additional officers, have been stationed for poll duty.

As many as 238 polling centres have been set up across 52 places.

The bypoll was necessitated after the sudden demise of Congress MLA Thirumahan Eveera. (ANI)
Lauding the pace of development in Karnataka done by the double-engine government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that earlier the development in the state was limited to big cities but BJP government is working to take the development to the villages of Karnataka. PM Modi was addressing a public rally in Shivamogga, Karnataka as he inaugurated the Shivamogga Airport and inaugurated various projects in the state. "Be it a vehicle or the government... If a double engine is fitted, its speed increases manifold. Earlier, when the development of Karnataka was discussed, it was limited to the big cities, but our government is working to take the development to the villages of Karnataka, to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities," said PM Modi. Comparing the transition of 'Air India' from the Congress rule to the BJP regime, PM Modi said that it was earlier known as a "loss-making business model", has now changed to displaying a "new capability of India". "Before 2014, when Air India was discussed, it often used to be for negative news. During the Congres rule, Air India was known for scams, as a loss-incurring business model. Today, Air India is taking a new flight before the world in the form of India's new capability," said the PM. Addressing the public rally, PM Modi said that the day is not far when people of India will travel in 'Make in India' passenger aircraft. "In the time to come, thousands of aircraft will be needed in India...Right now, we might be importing these aircraft from abroad but the day is not far away when the people of India will travel in 'Make in India' passenger aircraft," he said. He further compared the development done during the Congress rule and said that the latter never had thoughts that small towns should be connected with air connectivity. "Small towns should also be connected with air connectivity, Congress never had such a thought. Today many small cities of the country have modern airports. You can imagine the speed at which the BJP government is working," said Modi. "BJP government works for the welfare of the poor and empowerment of the women. Therefore, we tried to help them in every aspect," the prime minister said. PM Modi said that Shivamogga is a land of nature, culture, and agriculture and new airport will open a new door of development for Shivamogga. "In the aviation sector, there are going to be new possibilities. The expansion of air travel today is due to the policies and decisions of the BJP government. In 2014, the country only had 74 airports. In the last nine years, 74 new airports have been built," he said. Mentioning the water supply project to be inaugurated, PM Modi said that the big campaign is going to make life easier to deliver 'water from the tap to every house'. "Infrastructure with good connectivity is going to create new employment opportunities in this entire region. Today, a big campaign is going on to make life easier for the mothers and sisters of Shivamogga and this region. This is a campaign to deliver 'water from the tap to every house'.," he said. PM Modi will inaugurate water supply projects worth Rs 2,500 crore at Shivamogga and Belagavi districts of Karnataka. Implemented under the Centre's flagship 'Jal Jeevan Mission, the water supply projects will benefit more than 13 lakh people of the two districts. (ANI)
"There is a possibility of some more arrests in the liquor scam. Kavitha will also be arrested soon," BJP leader Vivek said.

Vivek alleged that Kavitha had given Rs 150 crores to Aam Aadmi Party during the Punjab and Gujarat elections.

Earlier Enforcement Directorate named KCR's daughter K Kavitha in the chargesheet in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case accusing her of holding a 65 per cent stake in a liquor company.

Accusing the KCR-led BRS government of corruption, Vivek said that the ruling party will "lose its existence in Telangana state".

Vivek said: "Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party had no funds when it was started".

"Now the party has more deposits than all the political parties in the country, "Vivek alleged.

BJP leader questioned where did this money come from? "KCR has not fulfilled one promise he had made during the elections".

Sisodia was arrested by CBI on Sunday after eight-hour-long questioning in an ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy of GNCTD.

Reacting to the development his political aide and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal termed the arrest as "dirty politics" and claimed that he is innocent.

Taking to Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Manish is innocent. His arrest is dirty politics. There is a lot of anger among the people due to the arrest of Manish."

"Everyone is watching. People are understanding everything. People will respond to this. This will boost our spirits further. Our struggle will get stronger," he added in the tweet (roughly translated from Hindi). (ANI)
Bentley Systems, Incorporated, the infrastructure engineering software company, has announced that it has acquired EasyPower, a leading developer of design and analysis software tools for electrical engineering professionals.

Since its founding in 1984, Portland, Oregon-based EasyPower has innovatively combined graphics-based modeling and analysis in order to make solving complex electrical engineering problems ever more straightforward and accessible.

EasyPower products are primarily used for designing, analyzing, and monitoring power distribution systems serving industrial and commercial facilities, to ensure safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance.

Bentleys acquisition of EasyPower, to extend integrated and iterative power systems design and analysis for infrastructure digital twins of every type, broadens its comprehensiveness in infrastructure engineering.

With an increasingly electrified future and with disparate and widely distributed energy resources on both sides of the meter, all infrastructure assets will benefit  in performance, economics, safety and resilience  from continued simulation and assessment of power distribution conditions and designs over their project and operating lifecycles, said the company in a statement.

Priorities for Bentley Systems will include integrating EasyPowers schema and digital workflows with Bentleys OpenBuildings, OpenFlows, OpenPlant, OpenRail, and Bentley Raceway and Cable Management applications, it added.

CEO Greg Bentley said: "All infrastructure projects and assets have power distribution systems, which are too frequently analyzed using unnecessarily complicated software that is disconnected from 3D/4D BIM and digital twin workflows."

"By incorporating EasyPower within our design and modeling portfolio, and our iTwin Platform, we can help enable the distribution systems powering infrastructure to be more readily adapted to new imperatives for sustainability and resilience, while making electrical safety assurance more ubiquitous, accessible, and evergreen," he stated.

EasyPower CEO Kevin Bates said: "We are delighted to be joining Bentley Systems at this point of inflection for electrical power in infrastructure, and in infrastructure digital twins. For nearly 40 years, EasyPower has been simplifying complex electrical engineering problems and helping our customers to confidently complete the job at hand."

"Our purpose has been to make electricity more accessible, more reliable, and safer to use. Within and for Bentley Systems, we can now substantially scale up EasyPowers reach  across the world, across infrastructure sectors, and across digital twin lifecycles!," noted Bates.

The acquisition of EasyPower initially adds 45 expert colleagues in North America, he added.-TradeArabia News Service
The last rites of the junior medical student from Warangal's Kakatiya Medical Collaboration who passed away on Sunday were performed in Jangaon on Monday. Earlier this morning, the mortal remains of the Warangal medical student who passed away last night (Sunday) at Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences in Hyderabad were brought to her residence. Earlier in the day, the police also detained Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) students for staging a protest outside the Kakatiya Medical College over the medical student's death. She had allegedly attempted suicide on February 22 and died at 9.10 pm on Sunday. A statement issued by NIMS hospital read, "In continuation to the health update of Dr Preethi, despite continues efforts of Multidisciplinary team of Specialist Doctors, she could not be saved and (was) declared dead on 26/02/2023 at 9:10 pm." Further details are awaited. On February 22, the junior doctor allegedly tried to kill herself by self-administering some injections at the Kakatiya Medical College, AV Ranganath, Warangal police commissioner, said. She was undergoing treatment at NIMS, Hyderabad and her condition was said to be critical, doctors said. The Warangal commissioner added that the victim was a first-year PG student at Kakatiya Medical College (KMC) in Warangal. "She was last seen at the emergency OP while she was on duty and later, she left her room informing other doctors that she was experiencing a headache and stomach ache. She was later found in an unconscious state," the commissioner said. On February 24, Commissioner Ranganath said, "A second-year medical student of MJM Hospital has been arrested in connection with the death of a first-year female medical student on February 22. We have booked him under SC/ST Act & Anti-Ragging Act." "Social media and personal chats between the two establish that she was subjected to ragging. Further investigation will be conducted once the toxicology report (which determines the presence of drugs or a foreign substance in a dead body)," the Warangal commissioner said. The victim's family members alleged that she was harassed by a senior male doctor. The victim's father lodged a complaint with the police claiming that a senior PG doctor had been harassing her for the last few days and eventually drove her to take the extreme step. Police said they were probing the matter from all angles. (ANI)
Intense rescue operations are undergoing to trace the remaining five persons, police said.

Kakani Govardhan Reddy, the state agriculture minister, has inspected the rescue operations at the site, they said.

Podalakuru Circle Inspector Sangameswara Rao stated that one of the bodies among six missing persons was fished out and bought to shore."Rescue operations are in force," he informed.

Rao and Sub-Inspector Karimulla are supervising the search and rescue operations.

As per the information, ten people, in the age group of 16-30 years, were on a boat when it suddenly overturned in a pond in a village in the Nellore district on Sunday evening.

The missing persons have been identified as Pamujula Balaji (20), Batta Raghu (25), Allishreenath (16), Mannoor Kalyan (30), Challa Prashant Kumar (26) and Pati Surendra (16).

The details of the rescued persons were not available till the filing of the report.

As per information, at around 5 pm on Sunday a group of ten youths took a boat ride for fun in Toderu Shantinagar village pond. "When the boat reached deep waters, a few got scared and jumped to save themselves".

More details are awaited (ANI)
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud granted more time to Assam Police and Uttar Pradesh Police to file a reply to Khera's plea.

Appearing for Assam, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, sought more time to file a reply to Khera's plea.

Senior Advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for Khera, sought to extend interim relief granted to Khera.

The court was hearing Pawan Khera's plea seeking the clubbing of FIRs registered against him.

On February 23, Supreme Court directed Delhi's Dwarka Court to give interim bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera. Following the direction of the top court, Delhi's Dwarka Court granted interim bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera, after he was presented before it.

Congress leader Pawan Khera was arrested by Assam Police. He was stopped by Delhi Police from boarding the plane at the airport in the national capital on February 23 after a request was received from the Assam Police to stop him.

Earlier, the Assam Police registered a case against the Congress leader in the Dima Hasao district. Two separate FIRs have been registered against Khera in Varanasi and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. (ANI)
BSP chief and former UP chief minister Mayawati on Monday said party leader Shaista Parveen, the wife of former Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Atiq Ahmed who has been named in a double murder case along with her husband and son, wil be expelled from the party if found guilty as charged. Ahmed, also a former SP MLA, was expelled from the Akhilesh Yadav-led party after being named in an FIR in connection with the murder of advocate Umesh Pal and his private security guard. Taking to her official Twitter handle on Monday, Mayawati said, "It hjas come out in the public domain that an FIR has been registered against Atiq Ahmed, his son and wife (BSP leader) Shaista Parveen in connection with the murder of advocate Umesh Pal and his private security guard, who was an important witness in (BSP MLA) Raju Pal's murder in Prayagraj." "Taking a serious note of this (FIR), BSP has decided that Shaista Parveen will be expelled from the party as soon as soon she is found guilty as charged," the former UP CM said. On Raju's wife, a BSP leader, also switching over to the SP, Mayawati posted, "Atiq Ahmed was a Samajwadi Party was elected an MP and MLA on the SP ticket. Now, his wife, who was with us, has shifted to the SP, the party she blamed for her husband's murder." "Our party is known not to punish innocents, even if they are related to an accused or criminal elements. However, we do not condone crime or support criminals irrespective of religion or caste," Mayawati added. Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday assured action against those involved in the murder of Umesh Pal, saying multiple teams were probing the matter. UP DGP DS Chauhan said, "A probe is ongoing and multiple teams are working on the case. I am sure that the hard work of our officers will take this case to its logical end." According to the Prayagraj police, more than six persons have been detained in connection with murder case. They include the two sons of baahubali former MLA Atiq Ahmed. A key witness in several cases, Pal was shot dead along with one of his guards in Prayagraj's Sulem Saray area on February 24, Commissioner of Police (CP), Prayagraj Ramit Sharma informed on Saturday. (ANI)
Scores of people participated in the protest demanding justice and strict action against Pakistani terrorists.

"We're protesting in thousands demanding strict action against the culprits involved in the murder of Pandit Sanjay Sharma. We request the Lieutenant Governor (LG) administration to arrest the accused", a local said.

Another local, Asim Masudi said, "We've always lived in unity in Jammu and Kashmir and today we protest against the killing of Sanjay Sharma. No matter what the religion or caste of the poeple being killed is, justice must be served."

Earlier on Sunday, terrorists attacked and fatally shot Sanjay Sharma when he was on his way to a local market in Pulwama.

The critically injured Sharma was rushed to a nearby hospital, with the help of locals. However, he succumbed to his bullet injuries.

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti slammed the BJP at the centre over the killing of the Kashmiri Pandit in the Pulwama district.

"BJP has failed in protecting the lives of minorities here. They only use minorities to project an illusion of normalcy in the Valley," Mufti tweeted on Sunday. (ANI)
Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Monday reserved the order in the case pertaining to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) seeking the remand of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, arrested by the agency in connection with the excise policy case. CBI arrested Sisodia on Sunday and brought him to Rouse Avenue Court for seeking five days remand of him. CBI counsel told the court that the Delhi Deputy CM's custodial interrogation is required for an effective investigation into the case. While seeking five days' remand of Sisodia, CBI said, "Conspiracy was hatched in a very planned and secret manner." Meanwhile, senior Advocate Dayan Krishnan appeared for Sisodia and opposed the remand application of CBI. "if someone is not willing to say something, that cannot be a ground for arrest," argued Sosodia's lawyer. What should I do with a phone that I changed? I am a minister, I cannot send it to a second-hand shop, it would have important data. CBI confronted me with the material but I did not confess. The Remand application says I gave evasive replies. This cannot be a ground for remand. They search my residence on August 19. 2022. I handover my phone. They called me to join the investigation and I joined. I cooperated," Advocate Dayan Krishnan argued for Delhi Deputy CM. The CBI on Sunday released a statement on Sisodia's arrests, claiming he was giving evasive replies and wasn't cooperating in the ongoing investigation in the liquor scam case. The agency further said Sisodia had been summoned earlier on February 19 in connection with the ongoing probe but had sought a week's time citing the Delhi Budget. (ANI)
While talking to the media JK LG Sinha said " I condemn this act. Those who have done this will be punished soon."

LG Sinha stated that security forces are currently working on a strategy that will help them neutralize such events in near future.

"For those who have committed this act, our security forces will be after them. Our forces are also working on a 360-degree security approach in this regard."

LG Sinha assured JK citizens of the prevalent situation in the state. "Such incidents do create suspicions in the mind of the people but the situation in the region is better than before," he said.

On Sunday terrorists fired upon a Kashmiri Pandit minority (Sanjay Sharma) while he was on his way to the local market in the Pulwama district. He was shifted to the hospital however, he succumbed to injuries.

Earlier Mehbooba Mufti PDP chief had slammed the Union Govt over their failure to the protection of minorities.

"The vicious cycle of killings doesn't seem to end. GOI has failed to protect minorities in J&K & reduced them to sitting ducks. Everyone here is paying a heavy price for this facade of normalcy. My deepest condolences to his family." Mufti tweeted.

Earlier today ADGP Kashmir Zone, J&K Police Vijay Kumar visited the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir to review the prevailing law and order situation in the area. (ANI)
A voter turnout of 75.49 per cent was recorded in Nagaland till 3 pm as the polling began amid tight security today, the Election Commission of India said on Monday. The polls would seal the electoral fates of 183 candidates across parties. The highest voter turnout was recorded at 85.82 per cent on Mon. The polling began in 59 Assembly constituencies at 7 am this morning amid tight security. The polling will continue till 4 pm. The voter turnout till 1 pm was recorded at 60.51 per cent while over 38.68 per cent was recorded till 11 am. According to ECI, 69.04 per cent of voter turnout was recorded in Chumoukedima, 67.64 per cent in Dimapur, 80.90 per cent in Kiphire while Kohima recorded 71.94 per cent and Longleng recorded 66.05 per cent of voter turnout till 3 pm. The voting is underway in 59 out of 60 Assembly constituencies, as BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi was declared winner uncontested from Zunheboto district's Akuluto constituency after his opponent from the Congress, N Khekashe Sumi, pulled out of the race on the last day for withdrawal of nominations, which was February 10. In Monday's polls, the BJP is contesting in alliance with the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), its old alliance partner in the 2018 Assembly polls as well. However, the BJP has the role of a junior partner, having agreed to a seat-sharing ratio of 20:40 in the state. The Congress and Naga People's Front are contesting 23 and 22 seats respectively. The CPI is contesting on 1, NCP on 12, NPP 12, RPP 1, JD(U) 7, LJP (Ram Vilas) 15, RPI (Athawale) 9, RJD 3, and Independents 19 seats. The party forged an alliance with the NDPP in 2018 and successfully formed an alliance government with the backing of Janata Dal (United) and an Independent. The BJP had won 12 seats, NDPP had registered a win on the 17 seats, and the JD(U) clinched 1 seat. There are a total of 13,17,632 electorate in Nagaland, of which 6,61,489 are men and 6,56,143 are women. A total of 2,351 polling stations have been set up in the state. According to the Election Commission, 305 companies from various security forces have been deployed at the polling stations across the state to ensure a smooth and fair voting process. The counting of votes will take place on March 2 along with Tripura and Meghalaya. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday sought to know why the Ministry of Defence passed a unilateral notification extending the time for payment of One Rank-One Pension (OROP) arrears to retired army personnel. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud directed the Secretary in the pension scheme department of the Ministry of Defence to file a response explaining why the defence ministry passed a "unilateral" notification for payment of OROP arrears to retired army personnel in four equal instalments. "The Defence Ministry has earlier sought an extension, which was granted by the top court by order of September 16, 2022. A further extension was granted in January 2023 for three months," the court observed. The Centre issued a notification later in January this year that arrears on account of the revision of pension from July 1, 2019, till the date of its implementation shall be paid by the Pension Disbursing Agencies in four instalments, the court further noted. However, the government has also said that it will pay arrears in one instalment to all the family pensioners including those in receipt of special or liberalized family pensions and all gallantry award winners. An application was filed by Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement (IESM) in the Supreme Court challenging government notification. The court asked how can department modify it when the court has passed an order to pay the arrears by March this year. The court remarked that this is not war but it is under the rule of law and warned the Ministry of Defence that it may issue a contempt notice, asking them to set its house in order. The court listed the matter after Holi. The decision to implement OROP was taken by the Narendra Modi government on November 7, 2015, with benefits effective from July 1, 2014. OROP was a long-standing demand of the armed forces and implies that retired soldiers of the same rank, who have retired after serving for the same length of service, will receive the same pension, irrespective of the date and year of their retirement. Earlier, the top court dismissed the review petition which had challenged its decision on this policy. The review petition was moved in the Supreme Court challenging the top court judgement delivered in March last year The Supreme Court in March last year had uphold the Centre Government decision on One Rank One Pension as it said that the OROP definition is not arbitrary and it does not find any constitutional infirmity in the OROP principle as defined by the communication on 7 November 2015. (ANI)
Union Minister of State for Fisheries L Murugan on Monday said he went to Sri Lanka last week and had talks pertaining to the Indian fishermen attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy personnel on February 23. "All fishermen from India were brought back safely from Sri Lanka," the MoS said.After attending a meeting in the city, the MoS told reporters, "There is a demand to bring back our Indian fisherman's boats captured in Sri Lanka. Our MEA Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar has already raised this issue with Sri Lanka." The MoS also said, "We are in talks with Sri Lanka on it. Soon a joint-level committee with a ministerial-level meeting in April month will happen and steps will be taken to get back our Indian fishing boats from Sri Lanka." The MoS said, "We are already involved in this and bringing the fishermen safely home." Murugan added, "If a single fisherman is not there, due process is taken up to bring him back." Six Tamil Nadu fishermen were allegedly attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy."Six fishermen belonging to Tharangambadi and Mayiladuthurai district had ventured into the sea for fishing on February 21 from the Tharangambadi fishing hamlet. But, as they were engaged in fishing in the traditional sea waters, they were brutally attacked by the Sri Lankan Navy personnel at 4:30 am on February 23," Chief Minister M K Stalin said on Friday. The CM added, "They have also taken away the fishing tools, engine, two batteries and GPS (global positioning system) equipment. The five fishermen injured in the attack have been admitted to a government hospital, Tharangambadi, for treatment. This attack is a blatant violation of all international norms and conventions." (ANI)
Al Fardan Exchange under the umbrella of Al Fardan Group has ventured into the education sector with the inauguration of the Al Fardan Banking Training Institute.

With corporate social responsibility at its core, the institute is aimed at developing and empowering UAE nationals for the financial services industry.

Inaugurated in Abu Dhabi, the Al Fardan Banking Training Institute will resonate the values of the Al Fardan Group, which has always underscored the importance of Emiratisation and the benefits in growing local talent and expertise to support the industrys vision for growth. Al Fardan Exchange, UAE is middle east's the first private financial institution to offer free education to its nationals.

Ambitious goals

Hasan Fardan Al Fardan, Group CEO of Al Fardan Group said: As an entity with a long history of success, we firmly believe that Emiratis have been instrumental in our nation's growth to date, and will be crucial in realising the government's ambitious goals. We are committed to fostering and developing UAE nationals talent to ensure that we are able to retain the best minds from within the country. We have set a goal to maximise employment of UAE nationals in various realms within the financial sector, which will tie into our wider corporate social responsibility efforts.

As the local financial services sector positions itself at par with the global market, Al Fardan Banking Training Institute will strive to fulfil the vision of the nation by empowering UAE nationals in the financial services industry and in every stream of life and enabling them to walk alongside the achievements and accolades of their homeland. UAE nationals won't be charged for educational services offered by the institute.

Al Fardan added: We are geared to ensuring our financial services sector is in line with the Emiratisation goals of the UAE government and we hope to help all the peers in the industry have access to the best financial services professionals in the region.-- TradeArabia News Service
Reacting to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)'s protest against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) across the country, Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel on Monday said that AAP should understand how the BJP is persecuting them. They (AAP) should not go to those states where the Congress is giving a direct fight to the BJP, but they go there to defeat the Congress. They are fighting a battle at their place but they reach other places to help the BJP, CM Baghel said. He added, "Today, I am going to visit Siddhivinayak Ganesh ji to pray for the happiness and peace of Chhattisgarh. I will also pray that may God give them (AAP) wisdom as well." AAP launched a nation-wide protest on Monday against the arrest of Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor excise policy case. Baghel further extended greetings for the successfull organisation of three-day Congress' 85th plenary session held here in the state capital Raipur. He said, "The national convention was completed very peacefully. All our national leaders came here and they returned with the affinity and love from Chhattisgarh. I would like to thank all the colleagues of the state. I thank all the MLAs of the cabinet, the people of the organisation, the front organisation and others who were engaged." The district administration and the police administration had also maintained the security system in a proper way. For the first time a convention has been held in Chhattisgarh and it has been a historic convention, it is a matter of pride for them, Baghel said. Targeting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Baghel said that they were trying to sabotage the convention. Initially, raids were conducted at the houses and officers of the MLAs and then the raids were conducted in the departments of the state. It was said that the raid was initiated in connection with a coal scam, so what does it have to do with the Labor Department, what to do with the environment department. The raid was conducted there too. "After that, they went to the vendor's place, inquired for four-five hours. Don't know who they were, even if ED had been there, they would have come to know, but don't know who they were. No stone was left unturned to stop the convention. But everything went well. I will pray to Siddhivinayak Ganesh ji to give wisdom to the BJP people," Baghel added. Reacting to BJP's remark calling Rahul Gandhi a comedy king, Baghel said, "The amount of rumours that were to be spread about Rahul Gandhi have been spread. After the Bharat Jodo Yatra he has done, no matter how much BJP tries to troll, Rahul Gandhi's image will not be affected." (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed the petition seeking to constitute a "Renaming Commission" to find out original names of 'ancient historical cultural religious places and remarked that India is a secular country and Hinduism is a way of life, because of that India has assimilated everybody. Supreme Court bench comprising Justice KM Joseph and Justice BV Nagarathna expressed its unhappiness with the petitioner and advocate Ashwini Upadhyay and said that such petitions should not be entertained. "Hinduism is a way of life, and that was the reason, India has assimilated everybody and therefore we are able to live together," said Justice BV Nagarathna. Justice Nagarathna mentioned the divide-and-rule policy brought by the British in the country and remarked that "let us not break it again with such kind of petitions". The court remarked not to dig up the past as it would only create disharmony and they can't allow the country on the boil. Justice KM Joseph, who was heading the bench, said, "In Kerala, the state where I belong to, the Hindu king has donated the land to build churches". The court said that our country is secular and supposed to protect the Constitution and remarked that the petitioner is concerned about the past and digging it up to place its burden on the present generation. "The history of any nation cannot haunt the present and future generations of a nation to the point that succeeding generations become prisoners of the past," said the court. Justice KM Joseph said that there is no bigotry in Hinduism. Trying to convince the bench, petitioner Ashwini Upadhyay said, "Hindus have become a minority in many historical places. The country has roads after Lodhi, Ghazni, Ghori and other invaders but there is no single road named after Pandavas." In reply to the petitioner, the court said, "Keep the country in mind, not any religion. A country cannot remain a prisoner of the past and the government is wedded to rule of law, secularism, and constitutionalism." "Being a Christian, he is equally fond of Hinduism, which is the greatest religion in terms of metaphysics. The country should be proud of that", added Justice Joseph. The petitioner has sought to constitute a "Renaming Commission" to find out the original names of 'ancient historical cultural religious places', named after barbaric foreign invaders in order to maintain Sovereignty and to secure the 'Right to Dignity, Right to Religion and Right to Culture. Advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay has sought to issue appropriate direction to the Home Ministry to constitute a "Renaming Commission" to find out the original names of 'ancient historical cultural religious places', named after barbaric foreign invaders in order to maintain Sovereignty and to secure 'Right to Dignity, Right to Religion and Right to Culture' guaranteed under Articles 21, 25 and 29 of the Constitution. Alternatively, the petitioner has urged the court to direct the Archaeological Survey of India to research and publish the initial names of ancient historical-cultural religious places, which were renamed by barbaric foreign invaders, to secure the 'Right to Know' guaranteed under Article 19 of the Constitution. The petition has urged the court to direct the Centre and State Governments to update their websites and records and mention the original names of ancient historical cultural religious places, named after the barbaric foreign invaders. (ANI)
Kerala High Court on Monday reserved an order on a bail plea of Sunil NS, popularly known as Pulsar Suni, the prime accused in the 2017 Actress Assault Case. Single Bench of Justice PV Kunhikrishnan observed that "the prima facie evidence of the victim, how brutal." He also observed that "There are several decisions which state that the gravity of the offence would also have to be considered in such offences, and that simply because an accused has remained in jail for so many years, cannot be a ground for release." Offences under Sections 120 (B), 109, 342, 366, 354, 354B, 357, 376D, 201, and 212 read with Section 34 of the IPC and Sections 66 A and 66 E were of the IT act were charged against Suni, who is in jail for the past 6 years. He had earlier approached the High Court for bail in March 2022. The same bench had on March 29, 2022, rejected the plea. When he approached the Supreme Court against this, it also rejected the same and directed him to approach the High Court if the trial has not concluded in a reasonable time. In the fresh plea, Sunil contended that "There is absolutely no chance of the trial being concluded in the near future. The applicant has not moved any other court seeking the same relief and shall not move a similar application during the pendency of this application. The petitioner is not in a position to defend his case properly by consulting and discussing with his lawyer, since he is not on bail and is not being produced in court every day. The basic right of the applicant to defend his case properly itself is defeated." The case pertains that, the actress who worked in Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu films, was allegedly abducted and molested inside her car by a group of men who had forced their way into the vehicle on the night of February 17, 2017. Dileep who is a famous Malayalam actor and producer is the eighth accused in this case. There are a total of 10 accused in the case. (ANI)
According to the police, the deceased has been identified as Bholu.

"Four people have been arrested. The interrogation is underway," Akmal Khan, Assistant Commissioner of police (ACP,) Colonelganj in the Gonda District of Uttar Pradesh told ANI.

"Strict action will be taken against the accused," ACP Khan said.

The official informed that a clash had taken place between the same groups on February 21 this month.

The identity of the arrested accused has not established till the filing of this report.

More details are awaited (ANI)
The special Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court on Monday granted 5 days remand of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia to the CBI till March 4, to interrogate him in the excise policy case. Sisodia was arrested by the CBI on Sunday. Special CBI Judge MK Nagpal granted the remand of Sisodia after hearing the arguments of CBI and defence counsels at length. While seeking five days' remand the CBI's public prosecutor submitted before the court that Manish Sisodia was heading the Group of Ministers (GOM). It is a case of increasing the profit margin from 5 per cent to 12 per cent and benefiting the liquor manufacturer. "Two draft policies were recovered from his computer in 2021. In one, the percentage of Commission was 5 per cent. In another policy the percentage of profit was 12 per cent. During the investigation, he could not explain why the changes were made. The conspiracy was hatched in a very secret manner," CBI alleged. The agency alleged Sisodia directed excise officials to issue licence to Indo Spirit which was also in touch with the southern group. The CBI also said that Delhi Deputy CM changed his phones multiple times. It was also submitted Vijay Nair was very active and had a meeting with the south group people at the Oberoi Hotel and CCTV and evidence were checked and collected. Nair sought illegal gratification from the south group, the CBI alleged. In this case, two public officers also made the accused. The court asked CBI "Why custody of the accused is required?" The public prosecutor submitted that for effective investigation custodial interrogation was required. "He is not answering and his answers are evasive," CBI said. On the other hand, senior advocate Dayan Krishnan appearing for Sisodia vehemently opposed the CBI custody. "Let them show a single call with my client, any meeting with my client," Advocate Kirshnan argued. "If he is not giving the desired answers, it cannot be a ground for remand. I am a minister of finance and education. There are many things in the phone. It cannot be given at any shop for repair," the senior advocate argued. Senior advocate Dayan Krishnan also argued that CBI must show what calls and meetings related to Sisodia the agency have. The senior counsel further said that Sisodia changed his phone and did not give it to the CBI. He was interrogated and confronted. "If he is giving evasive reply and cooperating, it cannot be ground for seeking police custody," Advocate Krishnan argued. Interrogation cannot be self-incriminating, the senior counsel said. CBI raided Sisodia's house and office and all his phones are with the agency, the counsel submitted. This was a policy approved by the Delhi LG and did not raise any objection, the council said. Senior advocate Mohit Mathur appearing for Sisodia submitted that In May 2021 the LG approved the policy. There were suggestions given by the LG, those were incorporated into the policy. "There were discussions and deliberation. There is no room for conspiracy," the senior advocate submitted. Mathur submitted that Sisodia tried to keep all the things out in the open. It all reached the finale when it reached the LG. Remand not to be done in a mechanical manner, Mohit Mathur argued and said You (CBI) filed the charge sheet and did not do anything, now you want to add the names. Senior advocate Siddharth Agrawal also argued for Sisodia. He submitted that there is non-compliance with the judgement of the Supreme Court in the Arnesh Kumar case. Agrawal also submitted that Sisodia is the finance minister. The time and purpose of the arrest were that he was not available to answer the question. He also submitted that this arrest is an assault on individual liberty as well as the institution. It is it case to decline the remand. In rebuttal, CBI said that two later drafts were not placed before the LG. "Arnesh Kumar applies only when the accused is cooperating. He should explain, we are not seeking their confession," CBI said. (ANI)
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh on Monday said that the central government has arrested Delhi Deputy CM Manish Sisodia only due to "political reasons" and to hide the scams done by the Modi government. "CBI didn't get anything even after repeated raids and searches. Modi government has arrested Sisodia only because of political reasons and only to hide its scams. His arrest has come at a time when there is a demand of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Adani-Hindenburg issue in Parliament. It all has been done only to divert people from this issue," Singh said while addressing a press conference here. He further alleged that the Modi government is "furious" about the AAP party's raise in the country. "Arvind Kejriwal's government is doing commendable job in the whole country. Modi does not want that our government becomes an example for the country and the world. This government (Union government) is taking action against the AAP party only due to its rise in the country as it is very furious about AAP's growth," AAP MP said. Earlier in the day, Singh was released from detention along with fellow party leaders. Singh and other AAP leaders were detained on Sunday for staging a demonstration outside the CBI office, in support of Sisodia, who was arrested by the central agency in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case, after being questioned for hours. Further hitting out at the Union government over the Adani issue, Singh said that if an investigation is conducted into the matter, Modi will be "unmasked". "People are watching that all the agencies including CBI, SEBI, and ED are silent on the scams done by Adani. On the other hand, there is Sisodia who is building the future of lakhs of students, has been put into jail," Sanjay Singh said, adding, "If an investigation is conducted in the matter, Modi will be unmasked." The AAP, meanwhile, said it will also organise protests across the country, including in the national capital, outside the BJP headquarters, against the arrest of Sisodia. Delhi Special CP (L&O) Dependra Pathak said adequate arrangements have been made to maintain the law and order. "Effective and robust police arrangement is in place on the ground to maintain law and order," he said. The CBI on Sunday released a statement on Sisodia's arrest, saying he was giving evasive replies and not cooperating in the investigation. The probe agency also said that Sisodia was earlier called on February 19 for investigation, but had sought a week's time citing preoccupations. "The Deputy CM was issued a notice under section 41A of CrPC for attending the investigation on February 19, 2023. However, he sought time of one week citing his preoccupation," the CBI said in its statement. Shortly before arriving at the CBI office for questioning, Sisodia said false cases were being lodged against party leaders as Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "afraid" of Kejriwal. (ANI) However, Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court sent Sisodia to CBI remand till March 4. (ANI)
The initiative for the all-around development of Pauri came during CM Dhami's previous visit to the Garhwal town while reviewing a meeting with the senior officials.

Dhami highlighted the concern about the historical and mythological beauty of the place and made a special plan.

Earlier this month, CM Dhami also launched several developmental schemes by visiting Pauri. Besides, he also chose Pauri to launch the Antyodaya free gas refill scheme and simultaneously be launched in the entire state.

He also took cognizance of the fact that despite Pauri headquartering the Garhwal division, the division offices are not functioning from its centre and directed the administrative officials along with the secretary to study and submit a report on the matter.

Uttarakhand government is working to revive the historical value and honour of Pauri. (ANI)
Owing to a low wholesale price of onions, the farmers stopped auctions at Nashik's Lasalgaon Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC) on Monday. This was followed by a protest of the Maharashtra State Onion Growers' Association against the government. A farmer, who was also protesting at the site, said that they incur a cost of Rs 50,000 per acre to grow onions, while they earn only Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000 for the produce sold at the auctions. He also said that it has come to the point that the farmers were considering suicide - a better option, adding that, the Modi government should extend a helping hand to the farmers. Due to the gradual decline in onion prices, the farmers began their agitation at the Lasalgaon APMC resulting in the stoppage of the onion auctions. The organization demanded that the onions be sold at the right price. The sale of onions at the auction was stopped as they were being sold at prices as low as Rs 1/kg or Rs 2/kg. Due to the huge yield of the onion crop, its prices are falling down in other states as well. Notably, a few days ago Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana (SSS) staged a chakka-jam on Shirdi-Surat Highway, citing the decline in onion price. During their strike, the farmers had thrown off onions and grapes on the ground to express their resentment against the government. A similar protest was witnessed on Monday morning when the farmers' association registered their anger against the governments in both State and Centre, and NAFED (National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd). In a shocking incident in Solapur district, a 58-year-old onion farmer from Borgaon village had travelled a distance of 70 km to sell 512 kg onions at Solapur APMC. After the sale, to much surprise, he was handed over a cheque for Rs 2. Not only onions but also other vegetables are being sold at lower prices, giving a hard time to the farmers. In another similar incident, a farmer Ambadas Sahebrao Nikam of Yevala Taluka Kusur village fed brinjal worth Rs 10,000 to his cattle, as he was not getting a fair price for his crop. (ANI)
The children's talent show was organised in collaboration with CIE Experimental Basic School, the Department of Education, the University of Delhi and children in the national capital's Indra Basti Timarpur.

Children of CIE School, Department of Education, University of Delhi and Indra Basti Timarpur participated enthusiastically in this programme, a press release from the centre stated.

The children were accompanied by their teachers and parents.

During the show, Dr Shashi Rani Dev (Honorary Director, CCAW), Professor Pamela Singla, Head of the Department at the Department of Social Work, children and staff planted a 'hope towards change'.

The CCAW revived the activities of post COVID 19 Pandemic along with her students who are working with children for their personality development, and psychosocial development and to engage them in creative activities.

CCAW started working with these children of marginalised communities based on psychosocial needs.

Today, it was the talent event in which all registered children participated with great enthusiasm.

In future, the CCAW will expand its activities with school children at the open community level for the optimal psychosocial development and well-being of children and adolescents. (ANI)
Ministry of Ayush's first "Chintan Shivir" was inaugurated by Union Minister of Ayush Sarbananda Sonowal on Monday at Kaziranga National Park in Assam, said a press release on Monday. Minister talked about the tremendous potential of the Ayush sector and exhorted young researchers and scientists to work on evidence-based scientific research and explain the benefits and research of the Ayush system of medicine in native languages so that it reaches larger masses, added the press release. Sarbananda Sonowal added that Ayush is pivotal to Heal in India and Heal by India ecosystem. Ayush is very important to the vision of one earth, one family, and one future. Under the visionary leadership of the Prime Minister India's traditional medicine system has been globally positioned. Munjapara Mahendrabhai, Union Minister of State for Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Pramod Kumar Pathak, special secretary, MoA along with other senior officials from the Ministry and eminent speakers, experts, and dignitaries are participating in the Chintan Shivir. Union Minister of State for Ayush Mahendra Munjpara participated in the first session on Digital health and technology in Ayush and said, "Now the world is realizing the power of Ayush. With the help of digital health, Ayush Grid, and digital and technological advances, the power of Ayush can be capitalized from primary healthcare to specialised health centres." Both ministers along with Ministry of Ayush officials participated in the Y-break conducted by Ishwar V. Basavaraddi, Director, Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, New Delhi. The first session on day one was on digital health and technology in Ayush, the second session was on Ayush Research: Future strategy, challenges and the way forward and the third was on Ayush education: Future initiatives, capacity building, employment generation and NEP. The Second day will see sessions on current challenges and way forward in Ayush Drug industries, services and standardization of Ayush products. The fifth session will be on Ayush in public health, challenges and the way forward and will end with a presentation of reports with deliverables and a roadmap. The two-day Chintan Shivir is being organized to build the road map for the up-gradation of Ayush institutions and their integration with technological advancements, and the identification of ways to integrate Ayush with the New Education Policy, while also identifying current services with potential improvements to take advantage of Ayush. (ANI)
Upholding sustainability as one of the critical pillars of progress, Oman has been at the forefront of spearheading initiatives that advocate economic growth, social inclusion and the protection of the countrys environment.

In line with the same, the Oman Sustainability Week (OSW) 2023, a national-level event hosted by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MEM) with Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) as the Host Organiser, is set to take place from March 12 to 16, it was announced at a press conference.

The event dedicated to enhancing the future of energy, power, water, waste and environment and society is strongly aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and further reiterates the countrys commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Bringing together policymakers, sustainability experts and industry leaders, OSW seeks to engage influential national development stakeholders and position Oman as a country that implements sustainable practices in every sector.

Harmony with nature

With humanity making stellar advancements in technology, driving rapid developments in every key sector, it has become even more critical that we take concerted efforts to implement transformational processes in everyday practices so we can operate in harmony with nature. Every action aimed at promoting sustainability, however small or large, if steered in the right direction, has the potential to have a significant global impact that will contribute towards protecting communities and preserving the environmental ecosystem, said Dr Ali Al Rajhi, Director General for Planning and Studies, Ministry of Energy and Minerals and OSW Steering Committee Chair.

OSW seeks to be that very platform that advocates sustainability by facilitating meaningful dialogues between leaders who have the capacity to lead change, promoting the cross-sharing of technical expertise and resources and encouraging a business and community-wide shift towards adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Large-scale events like OSW give the needed impetus, guidance and support to key industries, helping them to accelerate their sustainability drive and achieve net zero carbon emissions in line with Oman Vision 2040. It also reaffirms Omans commitment to transitioning to a green, circular economy.

Taking a holistic approach to the promotion of sustainability through the diversification of the economy, OSW will include a series of activities that foster knowledge sharing through high-level discussions with leading experts and educational programmes.

The International Sustainability Resources & Technology Conference (ISRTC) organised by the Oman Environmental Service Holding Company S.A.O.C, beah, and programmed by Economist Impact, will take place from March 13 to 14 at OCEC. The C-level thought leadership Gaia Summit organised by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) will be held from March 15 to 16.

OSW Talks

A key highlight of the event is the Oman Sustainability Week Talks slated to be held from March 13 to 15. A free-to-attend, open panel forum, it will present invaluable insights into pioneering products and innovative solutions while inspiring attendees to embrace best practices in sustainability.

As part of OSW Talks, Oman Shell will also host the Shell NXplorer Programme on March 15 showcasing 10 innovative projects created by students from 10 schools in Oman. In addition, Oman Shell will also be sharing insights from its Shell Nawafidh programme on March 14.

The OSW Exhibition will take place from March 13 to 15 March in Hall 1 of the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC), which expects to see over 80 exhibitors and 7,000 attendees alongside more than 100 expert speakers and 450 conference delegates.

Meanwhile, the Oman Sustainability Site Visits programme is scheduled for March 16 and will offer attendees an opportunity to visit, experience, and learn from a number of active projects that have been leading sustainable development in Oman.

OSW Awards

To acknowledge, recognise and felicitate businesses, corporates and individuals who have played a pioneering role in driving sustainability in Oman, the week will kick off with the OSW Awards which will take place on March 12 at OCEC and expects to welcome over 260 attendees from various facets of the economy.

Apart from sharing knowledge, OSW will inculcate industry best practices in sustainability and highlight the various lucrative investment opportunities prevalent in Omans market. It will also offer a chance for businesses to promote their products, services, technologies and equipment as well as engage directly with local and international investors. As the nations leading event for sustainability, OSW seeks to align, centralise and benchmark all elements of the sustainability landscape in energy, power, water, waste, and environment.

Assuming the role of Strategic Partners at the event will be ASYAD, beah, Nama Group, Oman LNG, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) and Shell Oman. Extending its support as the Platinum Sponsor will be bp Oman alongside Averda, SLB and Sohar Aluminium as the Silver Sponsors. Omantel will be the Technology Partner at the event, whereas National Energy Centre will be the Smart City Partner.-- TradeArabia News Service
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday targeted the Congress and said that until he is alive the motive of the grand old party will not survive. He further said the people of the country would give a befitting reply to Congress which curse him to death. Addressing a public meeting here, PM Modi said, "Congress thinks until Modi is alive their motives will not survive and that is why they all are saying 'mar ja Modi, mar ja Modi'. And, some are saying 'Modi teri kabad khudegi' but the country is saying 'Modi tera Kamal khilega'. Taking a dig at the Congress, PM said that Mallikarjun Kharge is only a namesake president of the party as the world is aware who has the "remote control" of the party. "I respect Mallikarjun Kharge ji a lot... Congress session was going on now. He is the most senior. Mallikarjun Kharge has served the public in whatever way possible. It was sunny, but Kharge ji did not get an umbrella as it was meant for someone else. I was disheartened to see how the most senior leader, the president of Congress has been disrespected by them. The world knows who has the remote control," he said. Since 2014, Prime Minister said the country is continuously moving towards a meaningful change in agriculture. "We are connecting agriculture with modernity," he said. PM Modi said, "We have transferred Rs 16,000 crore to farmers across the country and eliminated the middlemen. Had it been congress' rule, over Rs 12,000-13,000 crore would have been lost out of Rs 16,000 crore." In 2014, PM Modi said India's budget for agriculture was Rs 25,000 crore. He said the government have increased it to Rs 1.25 lakh crore in this year's budget. He said small farmers who were neglected for decades, are the priority of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government. Rs 2.5 lakh crore has been deposited through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi in the accounts of farmers. PM Modi said BJP government has always prioritised sugarcane farmers' rights, and the government made provisions to waive tax on payments made since 2016-17 to sugar cooperatives. This will help sugar co-operatives in writing off the loans worth Rs 10,000 crore which got accumulated due to the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's policies, Prime Minister said. He said Belagavi is also known as Venugram as this city is known for handicrafts and has a good population of artisans. "Earlier governments had put a ban on cutting bamboo but we changed the law and allowed the usage of bamboo which will benefit lakhs of artisans," he added. The state-of-the-art railway stations and new rail lines will boost railway connectivity in the region. Belagavi is a big centre for health, education and tourism. Better rail connectivity will help these sectors to grow and help the local economy, PM Modi opined. He said Belagavi has become a base for various industries, and the double-engine government is committed to strengthening it. (ANI)
As part of its endeavour to make Uttar Pradesh clean, the Yogi government has decided to take action against those who do not segregate the garbage in all the urban bodies of the state. Under the '10 Tak Door to Door' campaign of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), Uttar Pradesh, fine will be collected from violators from March 4, 2023 with the amount ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 2,000. State Mission Director, Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Neha Sharma has instructed all Municipal Commissioners and Executive Officers to implement it effectively. Neha Sharma said, "The '10 Tak Door to Door' campaign was started by the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) Uttar Pradesh from February 01 to ensure 100 per cent door-to-door collection and waste segregation across the state. This campaign is divided into three stages: request, agreement, and action. March 3 marks the completion of the second phase. Beginning on March 4, the third and final phase will include taking legal action against those who do not separate their waste." State Mission Director further said that the gated colony, R.W.A colonies, and bulk waste generators will be made aware of the third phase of '10 Tak Door to Door' campaign, and the provisions of challan through display posters, banners, I.E.C. activities, etc. Sharma has directed the officials to conduct an inspection of households in each ward of the Municipal Corporation, Municipal Council and Nagar Panchayat in a planned manner daily from March 4 to March 31, 2023, Municipal Council, Nagar Panchayat and impose challans on those who do not comply with the source segregation. While maintaining continuity in IEC activities, bulk waste generators that do not comply with source segregation, gated colonies, and RWA colonies should be challaned by forming a team by Additional Municipal Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, and Executive Officer, Municipal Council/Nagar Panchayat. Additionally, she mentioned that anyone can file a complaint if door-to-door services are not offered. The Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) helpline 1533 can be used to file a complaint in this circumstance. Additionally, the officers have been told to promote this helpline service widely. Along with this, instructions have been given to take action against the concerned employee if the employee of the body/institution does not collect the segregated waste or is found mixing the segregated waste. (ANI)
A youngster in Telangana suffered a heart attack and died while dancing at a wedding near Bhaina in Nirmal district of Telangana. According to the video footage which has surfaced on social media platforms, the youth was clearly seen dancing in a celebratory mode. While dancing to a popular song, the youngster suddenly collapsed and became unconscious. Those standing near him came to his aid and attempted to awaken him by rubbing his head, but all efforts were unsuccessful. According to the reports, the deceased has been identified as Mutayam , a native of Maharashtra. He was dancing at a wedding reception in a wedding barat in Kubeer mandal of Nirmal District, Telangana. After his collapse youth was rushed to Bhainsa Area Hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival. As per doctors youth had suffered massive cardiac arrest. Earlier a similar incident had happened in Telangana where on February 22, a 24-year-old police constable died of heart arrest while working out at a gym in Hyderabad. Cardiac arrests are becoming more common these days. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), heart attacks, cardiac arrests, and strokes cause one-fifth of all deaths in India, even among youngsters. (ANI)
The Delhi High court on Monday directed the Central Government to file a fresh status report in the Toolkit case against activist Disha Ravi. The matter has been listed on September 4 for further hearing. She was granted bail by the Patiala House Court on February 23, 2021. Justice Prathiba M Singh also expressed her displeasure over Delhi Police counsel appearing in the matter without instructions. " This cannot go like this. It is an important matter, you can not come without proper instructions," justice Singh said. The court will hear the matter on September 4. Meanwhile, the court directed me to file a status report two weeks before the next hearing date. Senior advocate Akhil Sibal counsel for Disha Ravi argued that the personal data of Disha was collected and leaked to the media. He also argued that Delhi police have not filed the charge sheet even after two years after the case was lodged. Even the question asked during the interrogation and their answers were also leaked to the media. This is available online and it should be removed. Disha Ravi has moved a petition alleging that she was viscerally attacked by Delhi police. She was also attacked by several media houses on the basis of leaked information. The petition also said that such conduct is against her presumption of innocence and prejudicial to her. She has asserted that such conduct violates her right to a free and fair trial. It also affects the effective administration of justice. The petition also impleaded News Broadcasting standard Authority including some news channels. On February 19, 2021, the court directed the news channel editors to exercise proper control while reporting the matter of the Toolkit case so that the investigation is not hampered. Disha Ravi was also directed to ensure that the people related to her do not scandalise the Delhi police. She was arrested on the night of February 13, 2021. It was alleged that she made edits to the Google document which was shared as Toolkit in connection with the farmer's protest. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh High Court on Monday granted bail to former MP minister and Congress leader Raja Pateria on a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh in connection with the controversial remark against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Defence Counsel Shashank Shekar told ANI, "A meeting of Congress party was being held in Powai in Panna district in which Pateria used some words for PM Modi in the context of defeating him which did not go well with the public. Following this, an FIR was filed against him." "After the FIR, Pateria applied for bail in which the court had said that it should not have been said. The court had given us one month's time to repeat our prayer. Therefore after one month, we put the bail plea again and the High Court granted the bail on a bond of Rs one lakh," he said, adding that the court also said not to use such words again. Congress leader Pateriya on December 11 last year, stoked the controversy over his purported comments that people should be prepared to carry out Prime Minister Modi's 'hatya' (murder) to ensure that the Constitution is saved. A viral video purportedly shows Pateria as saying, "PM Modi will end elections, divide people on the basis of religion, caste and Language. Tribals face the biggest threat under his regime. You should be ready to carry out 'Modi ki hatya' if you want to save the Constitution." Later, Pateria clarified that hatya (which in hindi means kill) was metaphorically used by him 'in the sense of defeating him'. Pateriya purportedly made the controversial remarks on December 11, 2022, at a meeting of Mandalam Sector presidents organised by the District Congress Committee at Powai Rest House in Panna district, which was attended by senior party leaders, including Raja Pateriya, district Congress in-charge Manoj Trivedi and several party workers. On December 12, 2022, Pateriya, however, said that his comments were wrongly interpreted and that he meant to defeat Modi electorally. "A video has surfaced on Sunday's (December 11) card distribution of the Mandalam sector in Powai, in which it is alleged that I had said I will kill Modi. I am a follower of Gandhi and a follower of Gandhi cannot talk of the murder of anybody. The video is nothing but misrepresentation of what I said," Pateriya then said. "What I meant to say was it is necessary to defeat him to save this country's Constitution. It is necessary to defeat Modi to protect minorities, Dalits, and tribals and to remove unemployment. My intention behind the 'assassination of Modi' remark has been misrepresented," Pateriya then said. Pateria was arrested by Panna Police from his residence in Hatta, Damoh district on December 13, 2022. (ANI)
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will flag off the Bharat Gaurav deluxe AC tourist train for "Garvi Gujarat" on February 28, an official said on Monday. The Indian Railways introduced the train to showcase the heritage of Gujarat under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme. "Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Culture, G Kishan Reddy will be flagging off the train on February 28," the railway ministry said. The train will depart from Delhi's Safdarjung station on February 28 for 8 days "Garvi Gujarat" tour. The boarding and deboarding facility is provided at Gurugram, Rewari, Ringas, Phullera and Ajmer Railway Stations for the convenience of tourists. The first stoppage of this train tour package has been kept at Kevadiya wherein the Statue of Unity will be the centre of attraction. The entire train will cover a distance of almost 3500 KMs during the course of 8 days journey. The tour will include visits to prominent Gujarat pilgrimage and heritage sites such as the Statue of Unity, Champaner, Somnath, Dwarka, Nageshwar, Beyt Dwarka, Ahmedabad, Modhera and Patan. The fully air-conditioned train provides two types of accommodation viz. 1st AC and 2nd AC. The Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train launch is in line with the Government of India initiative of "Dekho Apna Desh" to promote domestic tourism. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has tied up with payment gateways for providing EMI payment options to customers, the railways said. According to the ministry, the visit of the Statue of Unity, Champaner archaeological park which is a UNESCO world heritage site, Adhlej Step Well, Akshardham Temple at Ahmedabad, Sabarmati Ashram, Modhera Sun Temple and the Rani ki Vao another UNESCO site at Patan are the major heritage treasures included in the tour itinerary. "Besides, the visit of Somnath Jyotirlinga, Nageshwar Jyotirlinga, Dwarkadheesh Temple and Beyt Dwarka are the religious sites covered in 8 days tour. There will be two-night stay in the hotels, one each at Kevadiya and Ahmedabad respectively, while the visit of places at Somnath and Dwarka will be covered in the day halt at the destination," the ministry also added. Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has tied up with payment gateways for providing EMI payment options to customers, the railways said. (ANI)
Governor received a ceremonial Guard of Honour and was welcomed by Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde alongside a host of other office bearers including Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Rahul Narwekar, Deputy Chairperson of Legislative Council Dr Neelam Gorhe, Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Chandrakant Patil.

Bais, seven-time MP from Chhattisgarh's Raipur, took oath as the Governor of Maharashtra on Februray 18 after being appointed alongside 13 other Governors and LG by President Droupadi Murmu.

Post announcement of the state budget session by the government, NCP leader Ajit Pawar demanded extending the budget session by a week.

"This session will only run for 17 days and there are many issues, on which we have to question the government and we need answers," he said

The Maharashtra Budget session is slated to end on March 25, while Eknath Shinde's deputy and former CM Devendra Fadnavis will be presenting the budget on March 9. (ANI)
The seized gold included 5 gold chains and one small locket.

Deployed at the terminal for frisking at the staff exit point from the operational area of the airport, the officer found something suspicious in the rear side pant pocket of the airline staff member.

Upon enquiring from the security staff member, it came to light that he allegedly picked the gold from the seat pocket of Flight No. KU 341 which arrived from Kuwait at 6:42 on Monday morning.

Spicejet security staff confessed he was in a telephone conversation with a passenger (a native of Andhra Pradesh) who had arrived on the same flight.

Later, the entire incident and details of the passenger were informed to the AIU officials, however, the passenger absconded from the airport upon arrival.

After completing all the legal formalities, the said Spicejet Security Staff with the recovered gold were handed over to the customs officials for further enquiry. (ANI)
Karnataka Chief Minister Basavraj Bommai on Monday said that the newly inaugurated Shivmogga Airport will become international one in the next one or two years. Speaking about the newly-built airport, inaugurated today by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said Shivamogga is the main door of the Malenadu region, and the airport will open the vistas for commerce, trade, agriculture, industry, and industrialization. It will provide connectivity to all the airports across the country. CM Bommai said the PM has made a lot of contributions to the State, and like India being the world leader, Karnataka will also become number one in the country. Heaping praise on the Centre, Bommai said, since 2014 over 30 airports were inaugurated, and another 10 to 15 airports are yet to be opened. A press statement further quoting CM Bommai notes, "Since 2014, India has had the maximum number of medical colleges and that number was more than the medical colleges established in 1947. Last year, the Government of India sanctioned four medical colleges to the State. The water connections in the last eight years was three times more than the number of connections since independence. Every house is provided drinking water connection under the Jal Jeevan Mission scheme. The maximum number of houses have been constructed since 2014 in the country under the Pradhan Mantri Awaz scheme. The total number of toilets built in the country in the last seven years had been three times when compared to the construction of toilets since 1947." Bommai said India is economically stable and held PM Modi responsible for India receiving the post to chair the G20 meet. "It is a matter of happiness that the G-20 is a prestigious forum that takes decisions on various international issues including economic and social. Karnataka has been playing an important role in the country's development. The maximum Foreign Direct Investment is coming to Karnataka which is the number one technology, and innovation. The Bijapur Airport is ready for the inauguration and the Hassan Airport is getting ready. The work on the Karwar Airport will start soon. The work on the Raichur, Koppal, and Davangere airports will start this year. As per the wishes of PM Modi, seven ports have been taken up for development under the Sagargamala scheme. In the last five years, 6,000 national highways had been sanctioned for which Rs 64,000 crore had been sanctioned of which the PM has sanctioned Rs 34 crore to Karnataka," he added. Further detailing the welfare scheme in the state, CM Bommai states, On March 11 later this year PM Modi is set to inaugurate the Bengaluru-Mysuru Express Highway and IIT COmplex in Dharwad. Speaking further he claims the double-engine government is responsible for the state's development. Bommai also praised his predecessor and former CM BS Yediyurappa, who celebrated his 80th birthday on Monday. "Despite being badly attacked, he (Yediyurappa) took a re-birth and fought on the people's issues, and made rich contributions as the CM." (ANI)
Former Uttar Pradesh Minister Siddharth Nath Singh today reacted to SP MLA Pooja Pal's (Wife of Lt. BSP MLA Raju Pal) demand for Y+ security for her safety from CM Yogi Adityanath. Talking to ANI, Sidharth said, "Atiq Ahmed, the murderer of Pooja's husband has support from Samajwadi Party. And she belongs to the same party. Then what's the reason to ask for security? Why is she afraid? For me, it's just a matter of sympathy." "If you think you have a threat to your life from Atiq Ahmed, then why are you still in the party?" he added. While speaking on the Mayawadi's decision of expelling Atiq Ahmed's wife from the party, if found guilty, he said, "It's totally their decision". After the murder of advocate Umesh Pal in Allahabad, Pooja Pal demanded Y+ category security from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for her safety. Previously talking to ANI on Sunday, Siddharth said, "The incident is challenging for law and order of the entire state. Umesh Pal's wife has also expressed confidence in the government's action and her desire to meet Yogi Adityanath. His wife told that she is still receiving threats from the criminals". Previously, while talking to ANI, Umesh Pal's wife said, "That is why we are feeling insecure. The government should provide security to our family and make arrangements to meet Yogi Adityanath." Also on Sunday, Uttar Pradesh Police assured to take action against those involved in the Umesh Pal murder and said that multiple teams have been engaged to investigate the case. According to the Prayagraj police, the police have detained more than half a dozen people in the Umesh Pal murder case. These include two sons of gangster Atiq Ahmed. Umesh Pal, the prime witness in several cases, was shot dead while his two police gunners were critically injured in a shootout in Prayagraj's Sulem Saray area on February 24, Commissioner of Police (CP), Prayagraj Ramit Sharma informed on Saturday. (ANI)
Aurrigo International, a provider of transport tech solutions, has partnered with Singapores Changi Airport Group (CAG) for the development of advanced autonomous, electric baggage vehicles Auto-Dolly and Auto-DollyTug, and its airport simulation software platform Auto-Sim.



The multi-year partnership with CAG provides an opportunity for the further development of Aurrigos autonomous solutions at Changi Airport and demonstrations to showcase the technology to other airports and stakeholders. Airport ground handling faces multiple challenges as the aviation sector recovers post pandemic. These include staff shortages, as many workers worldwide left the industry over the last few years, the need to turn planes around quickly and safely on the ground, as well as the climate change and air quality challenges facing the sector.



After phase one trials, where the Auto-Dolly travelled through the baggage handling area and along the airside roadways, the team has now embarked on phase two of the trial, to test the safe operations of the Auto-Dolly at the aircraft stand. Due to its small footprint and tight turning radius, the Auto-Dolly can manoeuvre itself precisely next to an aircraft and Ground Service Equipment (GSE) items.



In addition, with its capability to transfer a Unit Load Device (ULD industry standard luggage container) directly to and from the Skyloader equipment which loads the plane. This means that current processes involving additional equipment can be changed and operational steps can be eliminated, resulting in further savings to manpower and equipment. Changi Airport is the first airport in the world to test this equipments ability to perform autonomous loading and unloading of ULDs at the aircraft stand. Video of these operations HERE



This partnership follows on from the agreement with CAG announced on 28 October 2022, for the next phase of development of Aurrigos Auto-Dolly. Aurrigos Auto-Dolly has been in live, real-world testing at Changi since February 2022. Demonstrating that these electric, autonomous, baggage vehicles eliminate emissions at the point of use, improve the efficiency of baggage handling and allow the deployment of scarce staff resources elsewhere in the airport.



David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo, commented: "We have worked closely with the team at Changi Airport for several years and this partnership cements our collaboration to bring the best automated solutions to airlines and airports, enabling them to improve operational efficiency, cost and safety and sustainability.



"We have been testing the electric and autonomous Auto-Dolly in real airport environments since 2018 and we have used that testing and customer feedback to continuously develop a vehicle that can operate safely and efficiently in the safety critical environment of an airport apron.



"Changi Airport has won countless awards for quality and is famed for implementing pioneering new airport related technology. In CAG we have an excellent partner to develop the technologies and infrastructure that will bring a revolution to aviation ground handling.



Poh Li San, SVP of Terminal 5 Planning, Changi Airport Group, added: Similar to major airports throughout the world, recruiting enough ground handling personnel and drivers to support our growth is a challenge. We have been encouraged by Aurrigos innovative autonomous technologies to help address these issues, and were excited to partner Aurrigo in joint development and testing of these solutions in the real world.



The development and testing of Aurrigos autonomous vehicles is partially funded by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) through its Aviation Development Fund (ADF). The ADF supports initiatives to improve productivity in the Singapore aviation sector through the use of innovative solutions.



Aurrigo Autonomous Vehicles

Aurrigo started its autonomous division in 2015 and has been continuously refining the technology, focussing on areas where there is a demonstrable need and benefit to customers and in operating environments where it can be deployed realistically in the near future.



Auto-Dolly

Testing in live airport environments began in 2018 at London Heathrow Airport in the UK with a converted conventional manually towed baggage dolly, that Aurrigo retrofitted with an electric drivetrain and autonomous vehicle sensor suite. Using its 30-year history of automotive experience the company built on the customer feedback from that prototype, to create the first bespoke Auto-Dolly vehicle, designed from the start to be optimised for an electric drivetrain and autonomous operation.



This iterative design process is key to Aurrigos success in working with business partners, meeting the specific needs for them and the wider industry. This has resulted in a vehicle that is significantly lighter than the converted dolly, due to an optimised design, which reduces energy consumption during operation.



The electrically powered Auto-Dolly is designed to meet the needs of airport operators around the world, by eliminating CO2 and noxious emissions at point of use, which assists airports in meeting regulatory and their own CSR requirements. The autonomous capability allows operators to redeploy scarce staff resources in other areas, particularly important when many are struggling to source enough security-cleared staff to cover all operations. The Auto-Dolly has been developed to improve efficiency, not just by doing the same role better, but by revolutionising baggage handling on the ground, eliminating intermediate steps, processes and machinery. This facilitates improved baggage arrival speed significantly, which has the potential to reduce aircraft turnaround times.



Auto-DollyTug

Changi Airport has also been testing Auto-DollyTug, which replaces a traditional diesel tractor type baggage hauler, with an electrically powered, autonomous vehicle, which can carry a ULD (aviation industry standard luggage container) on top of the vehicle, as well as towing up to four traditional, unpowered luggage dollys. This ability to carry a ULD, as well as tow traditional dollys is unique, and brings additional space saving in the frenetic environment of airport baggage halls and in the safety critical spaces next to live plane operations, in comparison to tractor-type tugs in use today.



Auto-Sim

To maximise the efficiency of operations, Aurrigo has developed a unique software simulation package, Auto-Sim, which allows airport operators to redesign operations for maximum efficiency. The software can model the use of both traditional and autonomous vehicles to improve efficiency and reduce costs. In one airport in the USA, it has shown how unnecessary equipment purchases could be avoided, by demonstrating how operations could be successfully carried out on a terminal extension without additional vehicles on the fleet.



David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo, commented: The effectiveness of the Auto-Dolly and Auto-DollyTugs which are being real-world tested and continuously developed in our partnership with Changi Airport; are a result of the thirty-year history of our company and the unique combination of expertise we have across our three divisions.



Our roots are in high-end automotive solutions, electronics and software where we are a trusted supplier to discerning and prestigious brands. Our work with autonomous technology over the last eight years brought all these skills together to create state-of-the-art aviation ground handling autonomous EVs, that our customers want, and importantly tell us they need to solve global aviation industry challenges.  TradeArabia News Service
The Border Security Force has arrested a smuggler and seized 14 gold biscuits worth over Rs 93 lakh from his possesion along the Indo-Bangladesh border in the Murshidabad district here. The incident took place at 0950 hours of February 26 in the area of BSF's Border Out Post Charbhadra Base under Sector Berhampur, the BSF said in a statement. "An Indian smuggler was caught red-handed with 14 gold biscuits by BSF troops under South Bengal Frontier from their area of responsibility in the Indo-Bangladesh International Border, foiling the plans of smugglers. The seized gold biscuits were cut into 28 pieces by the smuggler, the total weight of which is 1.632 kgs and the estimated value of seized gold is Rs 93,76,464" said the official statement. The apprehended smuggler has been identified as Kabirul Mandal (24), District Murshidabad, it said. During interrogation, the smuggler also revealed the names of some smugglers in the area, mainly Zakir Sekh, Newton Sekh, Rahim Sekh, Salim Sekh, Ibrahim Mandal, residents of Dakshin Ghoshpada. BSF jawans have started raiding on all these smugglers, the BSF said in the statement. The apprehended smuggler and the seized goods have been handed over to Custom Office Jalangi for further legal action, it said. Acting on specific inputs, BSF patrolling party observed some suspicious activity in their area of responsibility. The jawans immediately cordoned off the area and shortly thereafter, the jawans nabbed the smuggler running away from the banana plantation, from whom the said gold was recovered, the statement added. The Commanding Officer of 141 Corps also expressed satisfaction over the success of the jawans. He stated that this was only a reflection of the vigilance displayed by BSF jawans on duty. Further, he stated in strong words that his jawans will not allow smuggling or any other type of crime to take place on the Border and will not spare the people indulged in it. "The success of the BSF jawans is a testament to their dedication and tireless efforts to safeguard the nation's borders." said the official statement. (ANI)
Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Monday issued summons against former Union Railways Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi and 14 others in connection with alleged land-for-job-scam. Special Judge Geetanjali Goel issued summons to the accused persons for March 15 while taking cognizance of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chargesheet filed against them on Monday. Court said,"After going through the chargesheet and the documents and material on record, prima facie shows the commission of offences under Section 120B read with Sections 420, 467, 468 and 471 IPC and Sections 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 (2) read with Section 13 (1) (d) of PC Act, 1988 and substantive offences thereof. Accordingly, cognizance is taken of the said offences." CBI had filed the chargesheet in October last year, against former Bihar chief ministers Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, their daughter Misa Bharti and 13 others in the land-for-jobs scam. Chargesheet stated that during the investigation, it was found that the accused in conspiracy with the then GM Central Railways and CPO, Central Railways engaged persons as substitutes in lieu of land either in their name or in the name of their close relatives. This land was acquired at prices lower than the prevailing circle rate and much lower than the market rate. It was also alleged that the candidates have used false TC and submitted false attested documents to the Ministry of Railways, said the CBI statement. The alleged scam occurred between 2004 and 2009 when Lalu Yadav was the Railway Minister. Apart from the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief, the chargesheet also includes the name of the then Railway General Manager. CBI stated that the investigation had revealed that the candidates were considered for their engagement without any need for substitutes and there was no urgency for their appointment which was one of the main criteria behind the engagement of substitutes and they joined their duties much later from the approval of their appointment and they were subsequently regularised. There were several anomalies found in the applications of the candidates and the documents that were enclosed due to which the applications should not have been processed and their engagement should not have been approved but it was done. Further, in most of the cases, the candidates joined their jobs in respective divisions on many later dates which defeated the purpose of appointment of Substitutes and in some cases, the candidates could not clear their medical examination under the required category to which their engagement was made and subsequently, they were considered and appointed on the posts where inferior/lower medical category was required, said the CBI. (ANI)
In a joint operation conducted by BSF Meghalaya and Meghalaya state police, forces were able to save 33 cattle that were on their way to being trafficked into Bangladesh. "BSF Meghalaya in a joint operation with state police on 26 Feb' 2023 confiscated 33 cattle brutally crammed in 03 trucks from Dawki- Amlarem road, West Jaintia Hills while these cattle were being taken to the International border for smuggling to Bangladesh. The seized cattle and vehicles were handed over to Police station Dawki for further legal action" said a press release. After the Mobile Check Stations were set up the international border between Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, and East Jaintia Hills, cattle smuggling has dramatically decreased. It has also significantly aided in keeping the smuggling of drugs, narcotics, and other illicit products under control. Owing to the adoption of Mobile Check Post success, the BSF earlier had stated that smugglers are encouraging individuals in some locations to speak out against MCPs so they can carry on with their illicit activities. BSF Meghalaya has begun erecting Mobile Check Posts (MCPs) in vulnerable points. Following all legal procedures, BSF is firmly in control of the border region. "Enhanced vigil by BSF on International Border has led to the seizure of more than 1000 cattle from different border areas of Meghalaya since January 2023" said an official statement. (ANI)
Department of Pharmaceuticals is celebrating the fifth 'Jan Aushadhi Diwas' on March 7 and events have been planned in different cities across the country, starting from March 1, to raise awareness about the Jan Aushadhi Scheme, said the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers on Monday. As per the Ministry, "Seminars, programs for children, women and NGO's, heritage walks, health camps and many other activities engaging PMBJKs owners, beneficiaries, State/UT officials, public representatives, doctors, health workers, nurses, pharmacists and Jan Aushadhi Mitra's are being organised at different locations across the country covering all State/UTs." This will generate awareness about the usages of generic medicines and benefits of 'Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana' and its salient features and achievements. Celebration of 5th 'Jan Aushadhi Diwas' at State/UT level and visit of Jan Aushadhi Kendras by Union Ministers at various locations will also be done, the Ministry added Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizer further said in a statement that the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) is all set to make this event successful under the guidance and support of Union Minister, Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Mansukh Mandaviya, and senior officers of Department of Pharmaceuticals. "With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India in November 2008. As of January 31, 2023, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) have increased to 9082. Under the PMBJP, 743 districts out of 764 districts have been covered," it said. This scheme ensures the easy reach of affordable medicine to the people in every nook and corner of the country. The Government has set a target to increase the number of PMBJKs to 10,000 by the end of December 2023. The product basket of PMBJP comprises 1,759 drugs and 280 surgical instruments. Further, new medicines and nutraceutical products like protein powder, malt-based food supplements, protein bars, immunity bars, sanitisers, masks, glucometers, oximeters, etc., have also been launched, the statement further said. "Medicines available under PMBJP are priced 50 pc-90 pc less than that branded prices. During the financial year (2021-22), PMBJP has achieved sales of Rs 893.56 crores (at MRP). This has led to savings of approximately Rs 5,360 crores for the common citizens of the country," the ministry said in the statement. In the current financial year i.e., 2022-23 till 15.02.2023, the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), the implementing agency of PMBJP has made sales of more than Rs 1000 Crore which has further led to savings of approximately Rs 6000 Cr to the citizens, it said. "At present three IT-enabled warehouses of PMBJP are functional at Gurugram, Chennai & Guwahati and Surat. Further, 36 distributors have been appointed across the country to support the supply of medicines to remote and rural areas," it further said. In the last 8 years, PMBJP has achieved tremendous growth and unbeatable success due to quality medicines being available at a cheaper cost to the people of the nation. It has drastically cut down the pocket expenditure of the lower- and middle-class people of India. This has saved more than Rs 20000 crores of citizens on the cost of medicines. This wider acceptance of people has given PMBJP further impetus to enhance its outreach in every corner of the country, the statment added. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will hold a review meeting on Tuesday to chalk out poll strategies for the upcoming Telangana assembly elections with state leaders at his residence in the national capital, a top BJP source said. According to the source, Telangana BJP president Sanjay Bandi, state in-charge Tarun Chug and other Telangana BJP leaders will be present in the meeting. As the Telangana assembly elections are scheduled to be held this year, the party has geared up its preparations. The party is running several programmes to connect the people and increase its reach to the grassroots such as Praja Gosha BJP Bharosa and Praja Sangram yatra and through these campaigns, the party is getting massive positive response from the public and as per the source, the party will discuss how to strengthen the party on booth level. BJP has successfully done 11000 public meeting outreach programmes in the state under Bandi Sanjay. According to the sources, a state presidential election will be held soon as the BJP president Sanjay Bandi's term is going to end in the first week of March, but another source from the party speculated that his term as the party President would be extended. Earlier in the national executive meeting, Sanjay was the centre of attraction as Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Praja Sangram Yatra and asked all the states to learn from his journey and appreciated his struggle and hard work. (ANI)
The financial report for the year 2023-2024 will be presented to the assembly by Palanivel Thiaga Rajan (Tamil Nadu Finance Minister) at 10.00 am on March 20, added Appavu.

A day after the Supreme Court affirmed the Madras High Court division bench decision that restored Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) as the AIADMK party's single leader, expelled AIADMK leader O Panneerselvam on Friday said EPS wanted to capture the party.

"Amma is the permanent general secretary of our party and we passed a resolution on it. Nobody has the power to act against this resolution. They (EPS) want to capture our party. Yesterday's Supreme Court verdict is not a setback for us. Soon we will meet Sasikala and TTV Dhinakaran," said Panneerselvam.

He said SC has given options to challenge the verdict. "If needed we will challenge it," Panneerselvam said.

He further said SC made it clear it that only the General Council meeting is valid and it did not state that resolutions passed are valid.

"Yesterday's verdict in Supreme Court will not affect the final decision of the case in the City civil suit," Panneerselvam said. (ANI)
Former Punjab minister Bikram Singh Majithia on Monday demanded a CBI inquiry into the Delhi excise scam be extended to Punjab, saying Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was also the architect of the state excise policy which had caused losses of hundreds of crores to the exchequer. Addressing the media here, Majithia said: "The actors and directors of the Punjab excise policy are the same as in case of Delhi. As in the case of Delhi, the CBI should probe the role of senior officers and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) politicians who had colluded to give huge benefits to select liquor manufacturers like Deep Malhotra at the cost of the state exchequer." He said a separate Enforcement Directorate inquiry should also be conducted to go into assertions of money laundering. Asserting large-scale corruption in the Punjab excise policy, Majithia said like in the case of Delhi, the entire liquor trade had been handed over to two companies and their profit margin had been doubled to facilitate a quid pro quo. "Hundreds of crores have been passed back to the AAP government in Punjab and the AAP high command in Delhi. It is this ill-gotten money from the liquor as well as the sand mining mafia which is being used by AAP to fulfill Arvind Kejriwal's national electoral dreams." He said this was the reason why the Delhi Chief Minister had publicly stated that the same policy which had been disallowed in Delhi was doing "wonders" in Punjab. Asking AAP not to adopt double standards on corruption, Majithia said: "AAP considers corruption done by its leaders as good corruption but if done by anyone else, it becomes bad corruption." He said Kejriwal had also become adept at issuing character certificates be it in the case of his minister Satyendar Jain who was accused of accepting bribes from conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar as Jails Minister or in the latest case of his Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. "Why doesn't Mr. Kejriwal let the investigating agencies and the courts do their jobs? Why is he coming in the way of the judicial process by sponsoring protests to defend corruption? It is obvious he feels the trail may lead to him," he added. --IANS vg/vd ( 383 Words) 2023-02-27-19:00:03 (IANS)
The Mumbai Police have initiated the drills of strategic road blocks, random checks of vehicles, tabs on suspicious persons or movement, and keeping eyes and ears open to detect any unusual activities, besides prodding their informers on the same.

The NIA alert came in an email to Mumbai Police, informing that the person, identified as Sarfaraz Memon of Madhya Pradesh''s Indore is reportedly trained in Pakistan, China and Hong Kong, and could pose a serious threat to the Mumbai''s law and order situation.

The central agency, which is tracking him, said that Memon had reached Mumbai and advised the police here to be more alert as he is an "enemy of the state".

The NIA also passed on the "dangerous" suspect Memon''s critical details like driving licence, Aadhaar card, passport and other documents with Mumbai Police, which in turn is seeking more dope on him from Indore police.

It may be recalled that in the past couple of months, the Mumbai Police have received several threats of possible terror strikes, but all proved to be hoaxes.

--IANS qn/vd

( 221 Words)

2023-02-27-20:12:05 (IANS)
Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav on Monday said that his RJD will take action against MLA and former minister Sudhakar Singh for repeatedly targeting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. "The party has already taken his clarification for attacking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Still, he is repeatedly attacking him. It indicates that he was guided by BJP and RSS and playing on their pitch. The matter is in the cognisance of party's national President Lalu Prasad Yadav and he has asked national General Secretary Abdul Bari Siddiqui to look after it," he said. "At present, the health of Abdul Bari Siddiqui is not right. Once he recovers from the illness, he will form a committee to probe this matter and submit the report before Lalu Prasad Yadav to take action against him," Yadav added. Sudhakar Singh on Monday said that the Nitish Kumar government has failed in every sector in the state. Earlier JD-U MLC Sanjay Singh strongly objected to the repeated statement of Sudhakar Singh against Nitish Kumar after the meeting of Mahagathbandhan's legislators in Bihar Vidhan Sabha. "The water has gone above the head. When will the RJD take action against him?" he asked. --IANS ajk/vd ( 211 Words) 2023-02-27-20:16:03 (IANS)
The AAP supporters gathered outside the BJP office at Veerchand Patel Path here and shouted slogans "Bhajpa Bhagao Desh Bachao" while demanding the immediate release of Sisodia. They have claimed that the democracy of the country is under serious threat due to the BJP.

They were involved in a scuffle with the police present there in large numbers. Senior police officers reached the spot and managed to convince them to move away from the BJP office, where security has been beefed up.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrested Sisodia on Sunday night after 8 hours of questioning in New Delhi over allegations that the Delhi excise policy had left to a loss of revenue for the Delhi government.

--IANS ajk/vd

( 159 Words)

2023-02-27-20:28:03 (IANS)
A 143-member Turkish delegation has explored investment opportunities at Sharjahs Hamriyah Free Zone Authoritys (HFZA) Food Park, the first and largest integrated city for food and commercial industries in the UAE and the region.

Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of the HFZA along with a number of officials and directors of departments received the delegation.

During the visit, the Turkish delegation was briefed on the investment incentives and advantages offered by the Food Park.

Exclusive services

They were introduced to the exclusive services provided by the complex, specially designed for investors in the food industry sector.

The guests were also apprised of the integrated business environment for local, regional, and international food companies, which includes facilitating import and export operations, storage, processing, and packaging of foodstuffs, as well as warehouses and world-class logistics services.

Promoting investment cooperation

Welcoming the Turkish delegation, Al Mazrouei emphasised HFZAs keenness to attract Turkish investments and promote stronger investment and trade ties between the UAE and Turkey, especially as the UAE is Turkey's first trading partner in the Arab region, with non-oil foreign trade valued at about AED50.368 billion $13.71 billion) in 2021. He noted that the bilateral and economic relations between the two countries have recently achieved qualitative leaps.

Al Mazrouei went on to say that the Food Park within HFZA plays a crucial role in supporting the business sector not only in Sharjah but also in the UAE. Serving as a central hub for the food industry, the complex offers a range of incentives through various commercial licences, including processing, assembly, packaging, and manufacturing.

He added that investors can benefit from exemptions on import and export taxes, as well as access to industry experts and regulatory bodies to stay up to date with the latest best practices. The complex also provides a seamless platform for direct communication with food industry investors, facilitating uninterrupted business operations.

Tapping into new markets

The Turkish delegation was provided with an extensive presentation on the Hamriyah Free Zone, which houses over 6,500 investors from 163 countries worldwide. The presentation highlighted the free zone's outstanding efforts made to attract and increase foreign direct investment flows, thus bolstering Sharjahs economy across several significant sectors, such as food, logistics, heavy industries, minerals, the maritime sector, oil and gas, and entrepreneurship.

The Hamriyah Free Zone stands as one of the most prominent and successful free zones in the region, offering a crucial platform for companies that seek to tap into new markets and expand their growth from the free zone. Its strategic location at the centre of global trade in Sharjah and its proximity to various major regions in the UAE, the region, and beyond make it an ideal destination for investors.

The delegation toured several factories in the free zone and food park, inspecting the infrastructure and logistical services provided. They were impressed by the competitive advantages and facilities available, and noted the convenience of obtaining various licenses within an hour.-- TradeArabia News Service
A 22-year-old man sustained bullet injuries after he was allegedly shot at by two miscreants, who barged into his office and fired around three rounds at him in Chanchal Park, police said on Monday. As per Delhi Police, three bike-borne miscreants reached in front of a Cable and WiFi office, located at Som Bazar road, Chanchal Park, before two of them barged into the office and fired at Hitesh (22). Hitesh was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital and is under treatment. "A PCR call was received in Ranhola Police Station regarding a firing incident at a cable office in Chanchal Park Delhi. During the enquiry, it was found that three unknown boys came on an Apache motorcycle in front of a Cable & WiFi office at Plot no. 4, Khasra no. 5/21, Som Bazar road, Chanchal park Delhi. Out of them, two boys entered the above office and one of them fired three rounds on one Hitesh," Delhi Police said, adding that the gunmen fired around 15 rounds from outside before fleeing the spot. "A total of 13 empty cartridges were found outside the office and three empty cartridges were found lying inside the office. However, the motive behind the incident is yet to be ascertained," police added. Police's investigation into this matter is underway. Further information is awaited. (ANI)
The West Bengal Forest Department has decided to set limits within the different national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the state beyond which the tourists or the safari jeeps carrying them will not be allowed to revel. The decision was taken in the wake of a charge by two rhinos towards a safari jeep at Jaldapara National Park in Alipurduar district on Saturday following which five tourists, the driver and the helper of the jeep were severely injured as the vehicle lost its balance while moving in reverse. West Bengal Forest Minister Jyotipriyo Mullick told media persons on Monday that a special committee of senior Forest Department officials will be constituted which will decide the limit to be set for the tourists to revel. "The committee will also evaluate the reason behind the erratic behaviour of the wild animals. It is to be seen whether they get irritated just because of the teasing by the tourists or there is any other reason behind their erratic behaviour," he said. Mullick said: "The committee should also decide on the further measures to be taken by the forest authorities to prevent incidences of tourists teasing or irritating the animals. "This is really a menace. And that is why we are considering setting a limit beyond which the tourists cannot revel," he said. He also said that the Forest Department is also considering introducing tourist insurance for those visiting the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the state. "However, the thinking is at a primary stage and the details on this count will have to be worked out," he said. The state forest department sources said that the exact reason behind the rhinos suddenly charging at the tourist safari jeep is yet to be ascertained. "According to eyewitnesses, the two animals were engaged in a fight with each other when the safari jeep reached the nearby road piercing through the jungles. There is a possibility that the jeep then drew attention of the fighting animals and they charged. If that is true also the drivers and the tourists instead of stopping there and capturing the photos and videos of the fighting animals should have moved away from that place," a Forest Department official said. --IANS src/prw/pgh ( 387 Words) 2023-02-27-21:06:02 (IANS)
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday cried foul over the way the Narendra Modi government has purportedly decided make the Hindustan Samachar news agency the sole news source for Doordarshan and All India Radio. In a tweet, Vijayan said: "The move by @prasarbharati to make Hindustan Samachar, a news agency with links to Sangh Parivar, the sole news source for @DDNational & @AkashvaniAIR is an attempt to saffronise news and silence dissent. Secular and democratic forces must unite to resist such communal schemes." Vijayan added that the founder General Secretary of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and RSS leader Shivram Sankar Apte had started the news agency which worked for the Sangh Parivar. "Right from the time the Modi government assumed office, they have been trying to keep Prasar Bharati under their wing and it must be seen the way they failed to air the speech of the then Tripura Chief Minister on Independence Day but gave the live transmission of RSS chief Mohan Bhagawat's speech on Vijayadashmi day," he said, terming this "high-handedness". --IANS sg/vd ( 192 Words) 2023-02-27-21:14:03 (IANS)
"It will take some time to get the final polling percentage. In all probability, it will be announced on Tuesday morning. Going by the rate of polling till 5 p.m., it can be said that the voter turnout was quite high going by bypoll standards. Barring some sporadic incidents of violence, the polling process was more or less peaceful," said an official from the office of the state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO).

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress candidate Debasish Bandopadhyay alleged that the central armed forces resorted to unprovoked lathicharge on his party supporters outside booth No. 73.

"One of our supporters has been severely injured in the lathicharge. In certain cases, the central armed forces even attacked our party workers entering their houses," Bandopadhyay alleged.

Left Front-supported Congress candidate Bayron Biswas alleged booth capturing by Trinamool workers at booth No. 62.

There were also allegations against the BJP of trying to allure voters by offering them food packets in front of certain polling booths.

The bypoll was necessitated following the sudden demise of Trinamool MLA Subrata Saha on December 29 last year.

He was a three-time Trinamool legislator from Sagardighi, securing victories in 2011, 2016 and 2021.

In 2021, he had defeated BJP's Mafuja Khatun by a margin of 50,216 votes.

--IANS src/arm

( 254 Words)

2023-02-27-21:52:03 (IANS)
A group from the University of Michigan has created new software to aid researchers in the biological sciences in conducting more effective animal behavior analyses. LabGym, an open-source programme, uses artificial intelligence to recognise, classify, and count predefined activities in a variety of animal model systems. For a variety of reasons, including understanding all the possible effects of a given medicine on an organism and mapping how the brain's circuits interact to produce a certain behaviour, scientists must measure animal behaviours. Researchers in the lab of U-M faculty member Bing Ye, for example, analyze movements and behaviours in Drosophila melanogaster--or fruit flies--as a model to study the development and functions of the nervous system. Because fruit flies and humans share many genes, these studies of fruit flies often offer insights into human health and disease. "Behavior is a function of the brain. So analyzing animal behaviour provides essential information about how the brain works and how it changes in response to disease," said Yujia Hu, a neuroscientist in Ye's lab at the U-M Life Sciences Institute and lead author of a February 24 Cell Reports Methods study describing the new software. But identifying and counting animal behaviours manually is time-consuming and highly subjective to the researcher who is analyzing the behaviour. And while a few software programs exist to automatically quantify animal behaviours, they present challenges. "Many of these behaviour analysis programs are based on pre-set definitions of a behaviour," said Ye, who is also a professor of cell and developmental biology at the Medical School. "If a Drosophila larva rolls 360 degrees, for example, some programs will count a roll. But why isn't 270 degrees also a roll? Many programs don't necessarily have the flexibility to count that, without the user knowing how to recode the program." To overcome these challenges, Hu and his colleagues decided to design a new program that more closely replicates the human cognition process--that "thinks" more like a scientist would--and is more user-friendly for biologists who may not have expertise in coding. Using LabGym, researchers can input examples of the behaviour they want to analyze and teach the software what it should count. The program then uses deep learning to improve its ability to recognize and quantify the behaviour. One new development in LabGym that helps it apply this more flexible cognition is the use of both video data and a so-called "pattern image" to improve the program's reliability. Scientists use videos of animals to analyze their behaviour, but videos involve time series data that can be challenging for AI programs to analyze. To help the program identify behaviours more easily, Hu created a still image that shows the pattern of the animal's movement by merging outlines of the animal's position at different time points. The team found that combining the video data with the pattern images increased the program's accuracy in recognizing behaviour types. LabGym is also designed to overlook irrelevant background information and consider both the animal's overall movement and the changes in position over space and time, much as a human researcher would. The program can also track multiple animals simultaneously. Another key feature of LabGym is its species flexibility, Ye said. While it was designed using Drosophila, it is not restricted to any one species. "That's actually rare," he said. "It's written for biologists, so they can adapt it to the species and the behaviour they want to study without needing any programming skills or high-powered computing." After hearing a presentation about the program's early development, U-M pharmacologist Carrie Ferrario offered to help Ye and his team test and refine the program in the rodent model system she works with. Ferrario, an associate professor of pharmacology and adjunct associate professor of psychology, studies the neural mechanisms that contribute to addiction and obesity, using rats as a model system. To complete the necessary observation of drug-induced behaviours in the animals, she and her lab members have had to rely largely on hand-scoring, which is subjective and extremely time-consuming. "I've been trying to solve this problem since graduate school, and the technology just wasn't there, in terms of artificial intelligence, deep learning and computation," Ferrario said. "This program solved an existing problem for me, but it also has really broad utility. I see the potential for it to be useful in almost limitless conditions to analyze animal behaviour." The team next plans to further refine the program to improve its performance under even more complex conditions, such as observing animals in nature. (ANI)
US national security advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday said there would be "real costs" for China if it provides military aid to Russia in its war on Ukraine, CNN reported. "From our perspective, actually, this war presents real complications for Beijing. And Beijing will have to make its own decisions about how it proceeds, whether it provides military assistance. But, if it goes down that road, it will come at real costs to China. And I think China's leaders are weighing that as they make their decisions," Sullivan told CNN. Sullivan said that the US is "not just making direct threats. We're just laying out both the stakes and the consequences, how things would unfold. And we are doing that clearly and specifically behind closed doors." According to CNN, Sullivan's comments come at a critical point in the Ukraine war. The US has intelligence that the Chinese government is considering providing Russia with drones and ammunition for use in the war, three sources familiar with the intelligence told CNN. According to sources, it appears that Beijing has not made a decision yet, as negotiations between Russia and China about the price and scope of the equipment are ongoing. "I can level with the American people in saying that war is unpredictable," Sullivan said on Sunday when asked by CNN if the US could continue supporting Ukraine at current levels a year from now. "One year ago, we were all bracing for the fall of Kyiv in a matter of days. One year later, Joe Biden was standing with President Zelensky in Kyiv declaring that Kyiv stands." "So, I cannot predict the future, and nor can anyone else. And anyone who is suggesting they can define for you how and when this war will end is not levelling with the American people or anyone else," he said, according to CNN. Spokesperson for the US Department of State, Ned Price on Sunday said that the US does not and never will recognize Russia's annexation of Crimea and that the peninsula is part of Ukraine. "The United States does not and never will recognize Russia's purported annexation of the peninsula. Crimea is Ukraine," Price said in a press statement on Sunday. "Nine years ago, Russia invaded Ukraine and seized Crimea, a clear violation of international law and of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The United States welcomes the efforts of Ukraine's Crimea Platform to focus global attention on Russia's continued occupation," Price said, according to the US Department of State. (ANI)
Last week, Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced that net profit for Q3 which ended in December, came in at Singapore dollar (SGD) 628 million (USD 465 million) and financial year-to-date profits touched SGD 1,555 million (USD 1,152 million). They are the highest the airline has ever earned in a quarter as well as for the first nine months of a financial year. The airlines said in a statement that this is due to "the robust demand for air travel continuing into the third quarter of FY2022/23, building on the momentum that began after Singapore relaxed its border restrictions in April 2022." SIA financial year starts in April. This comes on the back of Singapore's announcement that from February 13, it will relax all remaining COVID restrictions for travellers as well as locals. Travellers who are not fully vaccinated against COVID will no longer need to show proof of a negative pre-departure test before entering Singapore and do not need to buy travel insurance to cover COVID treatment if they fall ill on the island. Those who are vaccinated no longer need to show proof on arrival. The use of a face mask on public transport which was the last remaining local COVID-era protocol is no longer mandatory as of the same date. Singapore was one of the first Asian countries to reopen after the COVID pandemic and that has aided its tourism industry along with its national carrier. Besides government grants to affected industries during COVID, the airline was the beneficiary of its shareholders and financial institutions' confidence in its business as it managed to raise SGD 22.4 billion (USD 16.6 billion) during COVID including SGD 15 billion from shareholders (largest of which is state investment firm Temasek Holdings) through sales of shares and convertible bonds. As of December 2022, it still holds a cash balance of SGD 15.4 billion. This allowed it to keep most of its staff and fleet and facilitated restoration of routes quickly once travel resumed. This was unlike other regional airlines which had to let staff go and sell aircraft to keep afloat. SIA reported that its group passenger capacity reached 80 per cent of pre-COVID levels in December 2022, higher than the average of 51 per cent for the Asia-Pacific region. Its two main airline brands carried 7.4 million passengers in the third quarter, up 17 per cent from the second quarter. When added to the first two quarters, the SIA Group served 18.8 million passengers for the first nine months of the financial year. This is a nine-fold increase from a year earlier (2021) when most of the world's borders were still closed. Passenger load factors for the Group improved by 0.8 percentage points to 87.4 per cent, the highest for any quarter, on the back of record load factors for both premium airline, SIA (87.3 per cent) and low-cost carrier, Scoot (87.8 per cent). SIA reported that its cargo performance moderated compared to the previous quarter due to softening demand, as well as an increase in belly hold capacity as more passenger aircraft returned to service globally. While yields were weaker quarter-on-quarter, they remained elevated - almost double - compared to pre-COVID levels. Overall, SIA's revenue for the three months to December rose SGD 358 million (USD 265 million), an 8 per cent quarter-on-quarter increase to SGD 4,846 million (USD 3,589 million), a record. Passenger-flown revenue increased by 14 per cent or SGD 463 million to SGD 3,767 million as traffic grew 12.2 per cent for the quarter, outpacing the 11.1 per cent expansion in capacity. Revenue per available seat-kilometre (RASK) was 10.6 Singapore cents, the highest quarterly RASK in the Group's history. Cargo flown revenue fell 14.1 per cent or SGD 141 million (USD 104 million) to SGD862 million (USD638 million), with the lower yields which were down 14.6 per cent partially mitigated by a slight uptick in loads, up 0.6 per cent. Expenditure increased 7.4 per cent or SGD281 million (USD208 million) quarter-on-quarter to SGD 4,091 million (USD 3,030 million). This comprised an SGD 371 million (15.5 per cent) rise in non-fuel expenditure that was partly offset by an SGD 90 million decrease (-6.3 per cent) in net fuel cost. The increase in non-fuel expenditure was higher than the increase in capacity, mainly driven by higher foreign exchange losses of SGD 194 million (USD 144 million) recorded at the end of the current quarter with the US dollar weakening 6.1 per cent against the Singapore dollar. Net fuel cost fell to SGD 1,333 million (USD 987 million) mainly due to a 13 per cent drop in fuel prices. This was partly offset by higher volumes uplifted (+USD 103 million) and lower fuel hedging gain (+USD 19 million). Among the key strategic initiatives for future growth mentioned in the quarterly financial report, is the November 2022 deal with Tata Sons (Tata) to inject a further SGD 360 million (USD 267 million) into Air India. This will give SIA a 25.1 per cent stake in the enlarged Air India group following its takeover by Tata and merger with Vistara Airlines. This agreement is still subject to regulatory approval. SIA said in the statement, "The merged entity will be four to five times larger in scale compared to Vistara, with a strong presence in all key airline segments in India. The proposed merger will bolster SIA's presence in India, strengthen its multi-hub strategy, and allow it to continue participating directly in this large and fast-growing aviation market." "Deeper collaboration with like-minded airlines is an integral part of the SIA Group's partnerships strategy. This enables SIA and its partners to drive more traffic to their hubs, offer more options to customers, and increase the Group's global footprint," the airline added. (ANI)
Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Sunday criticised the country's higher judiciary and called out what he said was its "double standards" when dealing with legal matters of PTI chief Imran Khan, Pakistan based Dawn newspaper reported. The Foreign Affairs Minister while addressing a seminar at the Sindh Assembly in Karachi, said the public is looking towards the parliament and judiciary but "they can't see any hope". "I have to, unfortunately, say that it is very difficult for political parties to defend the double standards and actions with which the higher judiciary is proceeding," he said as quoted by Dawn. According to Zardari, it was not appropriate that the "prime minister from Larkana is hanged" and that the PPP is still waiting for justice for Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's execution but the "court waits for one week for the Zaman Park prime minister (Imran Khan)". "A dual system [of justice] won't work nor will we accept it. This cannot happen if Benazir [Bhutto]'s government has to be sent home then only a Jang news editorial is enough but if [Imran] Khan sahib's government has to be saved then they are willing to turn, fold and rewrite the Constitution because the blue-eyed has to be saved," Zardari said, according to Dawn. He said the judges "make a mockery of themselves" by repeatedly delaying Imran's hearings and merely threatening to arrest him. Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) recently decided to arrest Khan in a prohibited funding case, ARY News reported, citing sources. The sources further said that Imran Khan would be arrested by the FIA with help of the Lahore police. Furthermore, a four-member team was formed for the arrest, while a summary has been forwarded to the DG FIA for final approval, reported ARY News. Imran Khan was on Monday, however, granted protective bail in one case by Lahore High Court (LHC) while the hearing of the second is yet to commence, reported Dawn. Marking an end to the hours-long ruckus created inside the court premises, the LHC approved Khan's protective bail plea in a case pertaining to protests outside the Election Commission of Pakistan. (ANI)
Discussions have been held over the plight of contract hospitals in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan. The health department has refused to give financial resources due to which salaries of doctors and staff could not be paid, Pakistan vernacular media Daily Pakistan Edit reported. A large number of paramedics are also suffering due to non-payment of salaries. The former government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had handed over 19 government hospitals on contract to various NGOs after which doctors and other staff were recruited. After the formation of the caretaker government, the health department refused to give financial resources due to which doctors and other staff could not be paid, as per the Pakistan vernacular media Daily Pakistan Edit report. The caretaker government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should review the situation and take steps regarding the situation, as per the news report. The closure of free medicines for cancer patients in Pakistan has been discussed, Pakistan vernacular media Naibaat Edit reported. The news report expressed concern over the situation as cancer patients will not recieve free medicines. Meanwhile, the ongoing economic crisis in Pakistan has badly hit the healthcare system where patients have been struggling for essential medicines. The lack of forex reserves in the country has affected Pakistan's capacity to import the required medicines or the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) used in domestic production. As a result, local pharmaceutical manufacturers have been forced to slash their production as patients suffer in hospitals. Doctors are forced to not perform surgeries due to the shortage of drugs and medical equipment. As per Pakistan media reports, the operation theatres are left with less than the two-week stock of anaesthetics needed for sensitive surgeries, including for heart, cancer and kidney. The situation might also result in job losses in hospitals in Pakistan, further increasing the miseries of people. The drug makers have blamed the financial system for the crisis in the healthcare system by claiming that commercial banks are not issuing new Letters of Credit (LCs) for their imports. For most of the drug manufacturers, the imported materials have been held up at the Karachi port due to a shortage of dollars in the banking system. Recently, the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) called for the intervention of the government to prevent the situation from turning into a disaster. However, the authorities rather than taking immediate steps are still trying to assess the quantum of the shortage. (ANI)
The Dubai Chamber of Commerce has launched the Business Sectors Platform, offering an innovative package of quality services designed specifically to meet the needs of Business Groups and Business Councils.

The launch saw the attendance of more than 200 heads and members of Business Groups and Business Councils, led by Faisal Juma Balhoul, Vice Chairman of Dubai Chambers, in the presence of Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President & CEO of Dubai Chambers.

The platform is created to keep pace with the changing demands and needs of Business Groups and Councils, enhances their competitiveness and ability to achieve their strategic goals, and supports Dubai's digital transformation agenda.

Vital role

Belhoul said: Business Groups and Business Councils play a vital role in the growth and competitiveness of Dubais economy. The new services we are providing lay the foundations for more efficiency and impact in the work of Business Groups and Business Councils."

Belhoul pointed out that the new digital platform will positively impact the activities of Business Groups and Business Councils. "In addition to our efforts to increase the number of these groups and councils, we continue to endeavor to launch initiatives that enhance the ease of doing business as well as improve the business environment in Dubai.

The platform will allow Business Groups and Business Councils to add their comments and recommendations on the legislation, laws, policies and regulations electronically, thereby enhancing the strategic partnership between the public and private sectors and improving their two-way communications.

Specialised services

The platform features a comprehensive and integrated set of specialised services that are key to Business Groups and Business Councils. The platform will help in saving time and effort and enhance communications between the Chamber and the private sector, thereby reinforcing the Chamber's role as a representative of the business community.

The platform houses a library that contains all legislations and regulations relevant for businesses with an option for users to provide feedback on the laws and policies and electronic licensing and renewal services.

It will have a thorough toolkit that includes manuals and guides to provide Business Groups and Business Councils advice on best practices and tools to establish and manage a Business Group or a Business Council effectively.

Dubai Chambers venue booking

Business Groups and Business Councils can book online any of the venues or meeting rooms within the Dubai Chambers premises free of charge. Moreover, it has cloud-based services include 40 enterprise-level online solutions that are designed to streamline CRM, Sales, Membership, Finance, Operations and Marketing amongst other solutions. Business Groups and Business Councils can utilise these services to run and grow their entire operation on the cloud.

Training Programmes

Specialised training programmes that are designed to help the Business Groups and Business Councils improve their processes and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends are included.

The programmes cover different topics that are vital to support Business Groups and Business Councils efforts such as the Digital Presence Programme. This Programme focuses on establishing the digital presence of the Business Group/ Business Council while the Advocacy Programme sheds light on how they can advocate effectively. Other programmes include topics such as Memberships, Data Analytics and Technology for Business Groups and International Best Practices.

In addition to an in-depth discussion on the Business Sectors Platform, the event also saw the introduction of the new Business Advocacy Sector by Maha Al Gargawi, Executive Director of Business Advocacy at Dubai Chambers. The sector advises and supports the private sector by streamlining and expanding their advocacy efforts to focus public-private sector cooperation on creating tangible solutions to driving business and boost economic competitiveness.-- TradeArabia News Service
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday embarked on a trip to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and India. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Blinken stated that he will attend the G20 Ministerial in India. Blinken noted that he looks forward to advancing Central Asian partnerships. He tweeted, "Today I'm embarking on a trip to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and India. It will be my first time as Secretary visiting Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan -- and I look forward to advancing our Central Asian partnerships. From there, I'll head to India for the #G20 Ministerial." Blinken is on an official visit to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and India from February 28 to March 3, the US Department of State said in a statement. On March 1, Antony Blinken will visit India to participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting. He will attend a bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in New Delhi, US Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu said in a virtual briefing on February 24. "They will talk about our strategic partner partnership but really focus on how we're working together in the Asian Quad, in the G20, what we're doing on defence cooperation, and the Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technologies that is being run out of the White House and the prime minister's office," Donald Lu said. Blinken and Jaishankar will also meet with their Australian and Japanese counterparts who are a part of the QUAD Grouping, the US official informed reporters. Donald Lu said, "On March 3rd, the Secretary will also participate in a meeting of the foreign ministers of the Asian Quad, which is the United States, India, Japan, and Australia." Blinken will also participate in a panel at the Raisina Dialogue. "I'm not aware that they've ever had an hour-long public event where the foreign ministers have had a chance to talk about the quad and to demonstrate how is getting tangible and concrete things done in the Indo-Pacific," Donald Lu said during a virtual briefing. "I think we're going to hear about what we're doing on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief. We'll hear about what we're doing to improve security in the Indo-Pacific, in the Maritime Domain Awareness space. We will talk about achievements on vaccine diplomacy, and then you'll hear about the launch of the Quad fellows programme, and a recent business and investment forum," Donald Lu said. The US Department of State in a statement said, "On March 1, he will travel to New Delhi to participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, which will focus on strengthening multilateralism and deepening cooperation on food and energy security, sustainable development, counter-narcotics, global health, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and gender equality and women's empowerment." Before travelling to India, Blinken will visit Kazakhstan's Astana on February 28, where he will meet with senior Kazakh officials to deepen bilateral cooperation between US and Kazakhstan. He will also participate in a C5+1 Ministerial with representatives of each of the five Central Asian states. On the margins of the C5+1 ministerial, Blinken will meet senior government officials from the Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan to discuss opportunities for bilateral cooperation, , according to the statement released by the US Department of State. After his visit to Uzbekistan, the US Secretary of State will travel to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where he will meet with Uzbekistani officials to further advance ties between the two nations on bilateral and regional issues. (ANI)
Scores of Israeli settlers went on a violent rampage in the northern West Bank late Sunday, setting dozens of cars and homes on fire after two settlers were killed by a Palestinian gunman, reported The New York Times (NYT). The two brothers were killed near Har Bracha, a West Bank settlement about one mile south of Nablus, where nearly a dozen Palestinians were killed in an Israeli military raid earlier this week. The incident took place when Israeli, Palestinian and other Arab officials were participating in a summit in Jordan, along with senior US representatives, to discuss ways to de-escalate rising tensions. Jewish settlers went on a rampage in the area to avenge the killings, stoning and burning dozens of Palestinian homes, stores and cars, reported NYT. Palestinian officials said one man was killed and four others were wounded. Dozens of Israelis arrived in Huwara to riot on Sunday evening. Mosques in Huwara published messages calling on Palestinians to confront settlers in the area, reported The Jerusalem Post. Palestinians in the town burned tires in the streets of the town after the settlers entered the area. Footage from the town showed large fires that broke out amid the clashes. Additionally, amid the violence, Palestinians torched Joseph's Tomb in Nablus, according to Palestinian reports. Hours after the violent riots began, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on the rioters not to "take the law into their own hands," reported The Jerusalem Post. "I remind you that in the last few weeks (the security forces) have eliminated dozens of terrorists and prevented dozens of terrorist attacks," said Netanyahu. "Let the IDF complete the pursuit, don't take the law into your hands - and together we will defeat terrorism." Defense Minister Yoav Gallant also called on Israelis not to take the law into their own hands, stressing that the riots endangered Israeli citizens and harmed the operations of security forces who were hunting for the terrorist who carried out the attack. President Isaac Herzog also condemned the violence, calling on Israelis to allow security forces to continue their operations to catch the terrorist and restore order immediately. (ANI)
Given Russia's experience in its war with Ukraine, US intelligence chief William Burns on Sunday said that there appear to be doubts in Beijing about China's ability to invade Taiwan successfully, reported DW News. However, he said it was still important to take the threat to the island "very seriously." CIA chief said that the potential use of force was likely to grow by the end of the decade and into the next. Burns, in a television interview, stressed that the US must take "very seriously" China's President Xi Jinping's desire to ultimately control Taiwan even if military conflict is not inevitable. "President Xi has instructed the PLA, the Chinese military leadership, to be ready by 2027 to invade Taiwan, but that doesn't mean that he's decided to invade in 2027 or any other year as well," said Burns "I think our judgment at least is that President Xi and his military leadership have doubts today about whether they could accomplish that invasion," he added. Burns said it appeared likely that Russian President Vladimir Putin's setbacks during the invasion of Ukraine may have informed Beijing's sentiments, reported DW News. "I think, as they've looked at Putin's experience in Ukraine, that's probably reinforced some of those doubts," Burns said. The US and its allies have been wary of Beijing's response to the invasion of Ukraine, with some officials warning that a Russian victory could embolden China in its plans toward Taiwan. China has never renounced the use of force to take control of the self-ruled island, which it considers to be a wayward province. China has not condemned Russia's war in Ukraine and has not called it an "invasion." Taiwan and China split in 1949 after a civil war that ended with the Communist Party in control of the mainland. The self-governing island acts like a sovereign nation yet is not recognized by the United Nations or any major country. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter formally recognized the government in Beijing and cut nation-to-nation ties with Taiwan. In response, Congress passed the Taiwan Relations Act, creating a benchmark for a continuing relationship, reported VOA News. Taiwan has received numerous displays of official American support for the island democracy in the face of growing shows of force by Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. President Joe Biden has said that American forces would defend Taiwan if China tried to invade. The White House says US policy has not changed in making clear that Washington wants to see Taiwan's status resolved peacefully. It is silent as to whether US forces might be sent in response to a Chinese attack, reported VOA News. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday called on Denmark's Crown Prince Frederik Andre Henrik Christian and Crown Princess Mary Elizabeth. During the meeting, Jaishankar and Denmark's royal couple discussed sustainability and digital delivery. In a tweet, Jaishankar stated, "Shared with them various aspects of the New India in making. Our conversation covered sustainability and digital delivery in particular." On Sunday, Denmark's Crown Prince Frederik Andre Henrik Christian and Crown Princess Mary Elizabeth visited the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. The Danish royal couple arrived on Sunday on a four-day visit to India, starting February 26 to March 2. The official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Arindam Bagchi, took to his Twitter handle to inform about the arrival of Denmark's Crown Prince and Crown Princess. He stated that the visit of the Danish royal couple will further strengthen and enhance the close and friendly ties between India and Denmark. Bagchi tweeted, "Their Royal Highness Crown Prince Frederik & Crown Princess Mary of Denmark arrive in India for a 4-day visit. This is the 1st Royal Visit from Denmark in two decades. Will further strengthen and enhance the close & friendly ties between our countries." During the visit to India, Denmark's Crown Prince Frederik Andre Henrik Christian will hold a meeting with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Danish Crown Prince will address the opening session of the India-Denmark: Partners for Green & Sustainable Progress organized by CII. He will also meet President Droupadi Murmu, the MEA said in the press release. During the visit, the Danish royal couple will visit Chennai. They will depart from Chennai on March 2. According to MEA, the visit is the first ever from the Danish Royal family in two decades. Earlier, the Crown Prince travelled to India in 2003. Queen Margrethe II visited India in 2003 as a Crown Princess, according to the press release. The MEA, in its press release, said, "India and Denmark as vibrant and open democracies, share common values of a rules-based international order and convergence of views on significant multilateral issues", adding, "The visit is expected to further strengthen and enhance the close and friendly ties between India and Denmark." (ANI)
The Baloch National Movement, South Korea Chapter on Sunday held a protest in Busan city against the recent enforced disappearances of Baloch women in Balochistan. The protest took place on February 26 at Biff Square Nampo Dong from 15:00 to 17:00 pm (local time). Mahal Baloch, who has been identified as a female suicide bomber on Friday was arrested in Quetta by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and according to The Express Tribune, she was forced to support the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF). According to details, Mahal Baloch was used by and forced to support BLF's militant wing. She had been separated from her children and turned into a suicide bomber in yet another case of Baloch mothers and sisters being used by terror outfits for nefarious purposes, the report said. The CTD recovered from her handbag a suicide jacket with four to five kilos of explosive material attached to it. The Balochistan CTD spokesperson said the alleged suicide bomber was planning to attack important installations or security forces in Quetta, The Express Tribune reported. New series of these protests are taking place after the enforced disappearances of Baloch women. On February 3, Pakistan Army in collaboration with intelligence agencies forcibly disappeared Rahim Zehri, his mother Mahbas Khatoon, his wife Rasheeda Zehri, and their two children from Gishkori Town in Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan. In the same fashion, Pakistan Army whisked away Mahal Baloch, her two daughters and other women, and shifted them to an unknown location. The family of Rahim Zehri were tortured, hence due to a mounting reaction from the masses, the women were released later on. However, the fate of Rahim Zehri is still unknown. Mahal Baloch was tortured as the eyewitness of her two daughters. The following day, two elderly ladies along with Mahal's daughters were released but Mahal Baloch is still in Police detention. Enforced disappearances are common in Balochistan. People forcibly disappear daily at the hands of the Pakistan Army and other law enforcement agencies, where mostly young people become the victim of enforced disappearances. In the recent past, a few cases of the enforced disappearances of women have been also reported. Though in the last several months, a hike has been noticed in the enforced disappearances of Baloch women too. In the last six months, a dozen of women have become the victim of enforced disappearances in Quetta, Karachi, Bolan, Kech and Panjgur. Even Balochistan High Court also confirmed some cases of enforced disappearances of women. Prior to this, such incidents were reported in District Panjgur and other parts of Balochistan, where the Pakistan Army whisked away women; tortured and abused them sexually. Women are kept in Nazi-style concentration camps where a woman was raped and became pregnant. Later on, she was forced to abortion. The enforced disappearances of Baloch women have been reported since 2015; however, in the last few months, the abduction of Baloch women has increased. Last year, in August, Pakistan Army took away thirteen women in the Uch Kaman area of district Bolan. A known poetess of Balochi, Habiba Pir Jan was abducted from Karachi and another woman was detained from District Kech. The cases of forced disappearances of Baloch women were also reported in 2018 and 2019. Baloch Nationalists claim that the Pakistan spy agency abducted a school teacher, Zarina Marri with her one-year-old child in 2007. Since then her whereabouts and fate are unknown. Renowned Pakistani journalist, Hamid Mir in one of his tweets claims that Zarina Marri forcibly disappeared from Khohlu and later on she was shifted to central detention in Karachi. (ANI)
Taxpayers will incur an extra USD 3.5 million on a component of the Entebbe airport expansion after a Chinese company failed to deliver work, Monitor reported. Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has not taken against the company and not forced it to carry out the works at "no extra costs" according to the contract, Monitor reported citing investigators in the classified report. Instead, UCAA contracted another company to do the work at an extra cost to the taxpayer, it said. Investigators in the report highlighted that the contract specified a scope for fuel hydrants on a new apron expansion, which is to be done by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) at a cost of USD 3.5 million. However, the scope was transferred to a different contractor, TRISTAR, as per the news report. These funds are now reallocated to the changes in the cargo centre, which according to the contract should have been done by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) at no extra cost. The works are part of a USD 200 million loan that the government acquired from the Exim Bank of China to carry out the upgrade and expansion of the Entebbe International Airport, according to a Monitor report. The five-year project conducted by CCCC began in 2015 and was due to be completed in May 2021. Through the Chinese contractor, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority was to provide and upgrade infrastructure and facilities to modern systems, provide passengers with relaxing utilities, and attract revenue for Entebbe International Airport, as per the news report. The investigators in the report concluded, "The government is bound to make heavy losses resulting from substandard work being delivered by the contractor," as per the news report. The investigators have said that the project was rejected by cargo operators at Entebbe airport (DAS Handling Limited and the National Aviation Services (NAS), formerly ENHAS. The airport authorities had asked the two entities to move the operations to the new facility. However, during the inspection, they found that substandard work could not support their operations, according to the Monitor report. The report noted that the cold rooms for handling fresh produce were insufficient and not positioned as expected by the standards and rules. Investigators said that these were omissions carried out during the design and construction of the building. A source privy to the report told Sunday Monitor that UCCA officials have fiddled with numbers to protect what they say is CCCC incompetence "UCAA team will argue that the contract sum was not changed but note that there was a scope change in which works that were supposed to be done for fuel hydrants at apron 1 were removed from the CCCC and given to TRISTAR," Monitor reported citing the source, who asked not to be named, said. The source added, "The biggest issue is that the person in charge is the director, project manager and at the same time the contracts committee chairperson. This change and decision taken should be accounted for." The report noted that the contractors have the responsibility to give fit-for-purpose design. The contractor should have been held responsible for the loss. Furthermore, the Uganda government should not have been exposed to the loss. According to Monitor, the report said, "In any case," the report further observes "according to FIDIC design and build contract, clause 5.8 design error, the contractor has a responsibility to provide fit-for-purpose design." It further noted, "Therefore, the contractor should have been held responsible for this, and government should not have been exposed to this loss. There is probably collusion with those involved to benefit from this shielding of the contractor." Earlier this month, the top officials from UCAA were moved out of the House Committee on National Economy as they could not provide proper accountability for the loan. Led by its Director General Fred Bamwesigye, UCAA could not explain to Members of Parliament about the funds spent on different infrastructure and works carried out by the aid of the loan, as per the Monitor report. Further, as per the news report, UCAA is reported to have completed 96.4 per cent of a new cargo building. However, they could not give details regarding what exactly was accomplished and the amount spent. The committee vice chairperson Robert Migadde raised questions over the competence of UCAA given the failure to provide proper accountability. Robert Migadde said, "You were given this loan because everyone thought you were fit to handle it, we, MPs, cannot be the ones to tell you the nitty-gritty of the report, that put this here and there," Monitor reported. Migadde stressed that the authority was required to provide financial and physical performance of the loan, including pictorial evidence." (ANI)
The US is wary of the Chinese proposal to end the war in Ukraine as Beijing is offering a bogus path to peace, weighing arms sales to Russia, and showing an increasing appetite for confrontation with the democratic world, reported Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). Beijing is offering a bogus path to peace, weighing arms sales to Russia, and showing an increasing appetite for confrontation with the democratic world. Released by China on February 24 to coincide with the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion, the 12-point proposal calls for an end to Western sanctions against Moscow, setting up humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of civilians, ensuring the regular export of Ukrainian grain, security guarantees for Russia, and calls against the use of nuclear weapons, reported RFE/RL. The 12-point proposal pitches a gradual de-escalation of hostilities that would pave the way for peace talks. But, China's call for a truce between Russia and Ukraine quickly faced scrutiny as it appeared to reaffirm Beijing's position that the West is fueling the conflict while seemingly offering Moscow a reprieve, reported RFE/RL. "Beijing is speaking to a global audience with this paper," Raffaello Pantucci, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, told RFE/RL. "But for China to seriously push for peace, they would have to tell Moscow things they don't want to hear, and there is no evidence that (Beijing) has ever told Russia to step back -- either behind the scenes or in front of the cameras." The proposal also included language that appeared to be directed at the West, including calls to end the "Cold War mentality" toward the conflict and warning against "expanding military blocs," which are terms the Chinese Foreign Ministry has used in the past to refer to what it views as Washington's interference in other countries' affairs and the growth of the NATO military alliance. A separate senior EU official told RFE/RL that the proposal should be seen in the context of China looking to appear as "a leader of the 'Global South' and as a peace promoter," adding that "Europe is not wooed" by the Chinese initiative. The Chinese call for a truce comes after a year of Beijing looking to present itself as a neutral party to the war -- rejecting Western attempts to get China to condemn Russia's war in Ukraine, reported RFE/RL. Throughout the war, Beijing has carefully avoided any bold moves to help Russia that would lead to Western backlash while simultaneously deepening cooperation with Moscow. This has included providing crucial economic and diplomatic support for Russia, such as buying up Russian energy and parroting Moscow's narrative of the war in its media and at international forums like the United Nations. On February 23, Beijing also abstained -- for the fourth time -- from a UN vote demanding that Russian forces withdraw from Ukraine. Meanwhile, reactions to the proposal have ranged from critical to muted, reported RFE/RL. Speaking to CNN shortly after the paper was released, US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan dismissed much of the proposal's contents, saying it could have stopped "at point one, which is to respect the sovereignty of all nations." "Ukraine wasn't attacking Russia. NATO wasn't attacking Russia. The United States wasn't attacking Russia," he added. "Russia's aims in the war were to wipe Ukraine off the map, to absorb it into Russia." The Chinese paper also comes amid rising tensions between Beijing and Washington and accusations that China is considering supplying military equipment to Russia. The claim has been raised by US officials multiple times recently, and The Wall Street Journal reported that Washington is considering releasing intelligence on the alleged arms transfer. The German magazine Der Spiegel also claimed in a report published on February 23, citing unnamed sources, that Moscow was negotiating with a Chinese company about supplying large quantities of strike drones. Chinese officials haven't commented on the Der Spiegel report but have strongly rejected the US claims, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin saying, "The US side isn't qualified to point fingers at China or order China around, and we never accept the (United States) criticizing Sino-Russian relations." (ANI)
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday took notice of the drowning of more than two dozen Pakistanis in a boat tragedy in Italy. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Sharif directed the Foreign Office to "ascertain facts" regarding the incident at the earliest. Shehbaz Sharif tweeted, "The reports of the drowning of over two dozen Pakistanis in a boat tragedy in Italy are deeply concerning & worrisome. I have directed Foreign Office to ascertain facts as early as possible & take the nation into confidence." His statement comes after 59 migrants, including 28 Pakistanis, perished after their overloaded boat sank early on Sunday in stormy seas off Italy's southern Calabria region, Geo News reported citing officials. The Pakistani Embassy in Rome said 40 Pakistanis were on board besides others in the boat that sank on Sunday, Geo News reported, adding that the bodies of 28 Pakistanis had been moved out of the sea by rescue officials. It further said that 12 more Pakistan nationals on the boat were still missing. The Pakistani officials further said they are in touch with the Italian authorities, volunteers and maritime agencies, according to Geo News report. Earlier on Sunday, Pakistan's Minister of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, tweeted, "We are closely following the reports about the possible presence of Pakistanis in the vessel that has capsized off the coast of Italy. The Embassy of Pakistan in Rome is in the process of ascertaining facts from the Italian authorities." At least 59 people, including an infant, children and several women, died after the boat carrying migrants broke apart on rocks off the coast of Calabria, CNN reported citing Italian authorities. The first three bodies washed up on the beach near Staccato di Cutro in Italy at around 4:40 am (local time) on Sunday. Around 80 people were saved from the water clinging on to pieces of the boat, CNN reported citing Italy's fire brigade. The italian fire brigade further said the survivors were from Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed the tragedy on human traffickers, calling it "inhumane" to exchange the lives of people for the price of a ticket under the false perspective of a safe journey, CNN reported. In a statement, Giorgia Meloni said, "It is criminal to launch a boat just 20 meters long with 200 people on board in adverse weather. According to CNN, Meloni further said, "It is inhumane to exchange the lives of men, women and children for the price of a ticket under the false perspective of a safe journey. Meanwhile, Pope Francis tweeted, "Let's #PrayTogether also for the victims of the shipwreck this morning, off the Calabrian coast, including many children, and for the other surviving migrants. I thank those who have brought relief and are providing shelter." (ANI)
A group of farmers, including representatives of the Kerala Government, went to Israel earlier this month to learn the farming methods in Israel. During the visit, Biju had gone missing.

Kurian, who was part of a 28-member team, led by the Principal Secretary of the agriculture dept of Kerala, that went to learn about foreign farming methods, absconded from Israel on February 17.

Principal Secretary informed the Israel Police department and filed a complaint in Israel.

"Israel govt took this as a serious matter and they are on the way to find the person. We also requested the government to cancel his visa," said State Minister P Prasad. (ANI)
Ahead of Presidential elections in Nepal, the country's coalition government has been thrown into turmoil with the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) on Monday announcing that it has withdrawn support from Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda'- led coalition government. With CPN-UML withdrawing its support, the incumbent government formed in late December last year has lost its majority. Prachanda now leads a minority government and would need to undertake a vote of confidence within a month. Presidential elections are scheduled to be held in the country on March 9. At a secretariat meeting chaired by K P Oli held this morning, the CPN-UML decided to quit the government and withdraw its support, the Deputy Chairman of the party, Bishnu Paudel said. All the ministers of CPN (UML) will also resign from the federal cabinet. "We had tried out best to remain afloat the government despite the differences we had (with Maoist Centre) and continue the support to the government but Prime Minister lately attempted to go on a different path. So we decided to withdraw our support and walk out of the government," Paudel told ANI over the phone. Further he said, "Prime Minister blocked the scheduled visit of the Foreign Minister to Switzerland. The message about withdraw from the government or dismissing from the post was conveyed to us which left us with no reason to stay onboard." Prime Minister Prachanda had asked Foreign Minister Bimala Rai Paudyal to cancel her scheduled visit to Geneva to attend a high-level session of the UN Human Rights Council. Paudya who is from UML was leading a five-member delegation including a secretary from the prime minister's office, foreign ministry officials and former minister Govinda Bandi as an expert. Prachanda has also cancelled his scheduled visit to Qatar, his first foreign visit since assuming office in December last year. He was set to fly out to Qatar on Friday to address the Fifth Conference of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs). "Now the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transportation- Narayan Kaji Shrestha will be representing Nepal in the forum," Surya Kiran Sharma confirmed to ANI. Earlier on Saturday, the Rastriya Prajatantra Party also decided to withdraw support and walked out of the government after the CPN (Maoist Centre) formed an eight-party alliance with parties including the Nepali Congress. According to article 100, Clause 2 of the Constitution of Nepal, a Prime Minister would again need to take a vote of confidence provided the situation - in case any of the political parties broke off or withdraws support to the government. In such a condition, the Prime Minister would require to take a vote of confidence within 30 days. In case, the Prime Minister fails the vote of confidence then the Prime Minister would lose the post. In two months of its formation, the Ratriya Swatantra Party had deserted the government but continued its support. Nepal PM Dahal would again need to take the floor test by March 26 this year. Earlier on January 10, Dahal took the floor test where he secured a staggering 99 per cent votes. He had secured whopping 268 votes in favour, it was the first time in Nepal's parliament history that any of the Prime Ministers had secured more than 99 per cent votes in the parliament. (ANI)
In 2022, Bahrain ranked first in Middle East and North Africa (Mena) for financial freedom, investment freedom, and trade freedom (Heritage foundation  Index of Economic Freedom 2022), as well as economic freedom (The Fraser Institute).

Bahrain also topped the GCC for effective regulations (The Fraser Institute  Economic Freedom of the World 2022), a testament to its forward-looking regulatory framework, officials revealed.

Additionally, the kingdom ranked 1st in the GCC for the stocks of inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) relative to 2021 GDP according to The Information & eGovernment Authority, which stood at 85% of Bahrains GDP. It also ranked 11th globally for FDI Greenfield projects (FDI Intelligence of the Financial Times  Greenfield FDI Performance Index Report 2022).

$1.1 billion in FDI

In 2022, the Bahrain EDB, supported by Team Bahrain, attracted over $1.1 billion of direct investment, a record year for the kingdoms investment promotion agency.

The investments are from 89 investment projects and are expected to generate over 6,300 jobs in the local market over the next three years. The investments focus on priority sectors, including financial services, ICT, logistics, manufacturing, and tourism.

Commenting on Bahrains achievements in 2022, Nada Al-Saeed, Chief of Strategy at the Bahrain EDB, said: Bahrains rankings are a testament to its attractiveness to global investors looking to tap into our region. Were happy to see the kingdom top regional and global rankings, resulting from the governments continual strides to build a competitive business friendly environment and attract more direct investment into the country, in line with the objectives set under Bahrains Economic Recovery Plan.

ICT sector

Al-Saeed noted that the Telecommunications, Information and Communications technology (ICT) and Digital Economy Sector Strategy (2022-20260), which comes as part of developing priority sectors under the Economic Recovery Plan, aims to improve the kingdoms overall global position in the e-Participation index of the United Nations (UN) eGovernment Survey. In addition, the Logistics Services Sector Strategy works towards positioning Bahrain as one of the top 20 global destinations for logistics services.

Dr Faisal Isa Hammad, Assistant Undersecretary of Competitiveness & Economic Indicators at the Ministry of Finance & National Economy, noted the importance of Bahrains first-ever ranking in the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, which assesses the efficiency of countries in managing their resources to achieve economic prosperity. He highlighted that the kingdom has been ranked amongst the top ten countries in 56 indicators that measure various fields.

The Ministry of Finance and National Economy closely monitors Bahrains ranking in global reports, and conducts detailed analyses and in-depth studies to identify strengths as well as opportunities for improvement in relevant fields.

These reports help in making data-driven recommendations that are in line with global best practices in order to enhance economic policy. Our team tracks Bahrains performance on reputable global reports that evaluate Bahrains competitiveness in various sectors, such as business environment, innovation, finance, regulations, policy-making, and human capital, Dr Hammad remarked.

Data analysis

The data analysis processs then contributes to creating initiatives and reforms that have a positive impact on Bahrains economy. In order to develop leading policies, we take into account the best global standards and practices implemented in different countries across the world, while also analysing their relevance within the legislative system and culture in the kingdom, he added.

Bahrain has also achieved global rankings for the following: 1st for female digital skills training and STEM education plan (The Economist Impact and Meta  The Inclusive Internet Index 2022), 3rd for women with degrees, 5th for skilled labour, and 7th for finance skills (IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2022).-- TradeArabia News Service
Among Uyghur activist and exile groups, Erkin Tuniyaz, Governor of the Uyghur Autonomous Region, Xinjiang, is widely despised as a traitor and Uyghur puppet of Beijing, reported Bitter Winter, a magazine on religious liberty and human rights. Recently, Tuniyaz cancelled a trip to the United Kingdom and the European Union after an outcry from politicians and Uyghur activists who said welcoming him would tacitly condone China's human rights abuses against Uyghurs. Tuniyaz starred in a "theatre" at the United Nations in 2019, in a show that China orchestrated. As the keynote speaker, he announced the closure of the transformation through education camps, which China had long denied even existed, and later presented as "vocational training centers." He also claimed at that time, "All trainees of these facilities will have graduated by October 2019," reported Bitter Winter. In fact, the camps were not closed; they were turned into prisons. More than three million Uyghurs who had been detained indefinitely were sentenced to various lengths of imprisonment without trial. Thus, China protected itself from the international criticism it was exposed to by changing the Uyghurs' illegal detention to "legal" detention. The name of the camps had changed, not the situation. Numerous Western nations, including the UK, have condemned China for grave human rights abuses involving Uyghurs and other Turkic minorities in Xinjiang under a government crackdown to prevent terrorism and religious extremism in the restive region, reported Bitter Winter. Tuniyaz has defended China's policies in Xinjiang in the past, including in a video address to the United Nations in February 2021, during which he said the vast network of "re-education" camps in the region where Uyghurs were interned "educated and rehabilitated people influenced by religious extremism." In reality, millions of families were torn apart by incarcerations in the camps. Families were driven out of the labour force, and widowed women were indirectly and directly forced to marry Han Chinese immigrants, reported Bitter Winter. More than 500,000 "orphans" were sent to orphanages. To hide this situation, information and communication restrictions doubled in the region, and as a result, thousands of Uyghurs abroad were unable to communicate with their relatives in the motherland. For three years, an entire nation was held, hostage. The birth rate of the Uyghur population declined vertically in Hotan and Kashgar. While, Tuniyaz proclaimed this situation a portion of heaven: "People of all ethnic groups in the XUAR are united as closely as the seeds of a pomegranate," reported Bitter Winter. Tuniyaz's role in the establishment and management of concentration camps was also prominent, but he was not alone in this Chinese project of the century. The uniqueness of his role, with the testimony of his ethnic identity in defence of the camps, was one of the most important tools of the Uyghur genocide. These puppet officials are supported by Beijing in the extent and scale of their role; a comfortable standard of living has always been provided for them and their families, reported Bitter Winter. Puppets are known for their soft necks, obedience to Chinese authorities, and, conversely, for their stubbornness, arrogance, and brutality toward Uyghurs. Therefore, Uyghurs see these puppet officials as traitors. (ANI)
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet on Monday for "final talks" on the Northern Ireland Protocol, reported Sky News. "President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Rishi Sunak agreed to continue their work in person towards shared, practical solutions for the range of complex challenges around the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland," the leaders said in a joint statement on Sunday. Both leaders will seek to finalise a new deal to tackle trade and political disruption in Northern Ireland caused by Brexit. The meeting is a sign that a deal is within reach, but Downing Street sources have told Sky News that there are still final details to work through. The agreement would mark an end to a two-year standoff between the United Kingdom and the EU. The Northern Ireland Protocol has been a big sticking point between the two sides since the UK formally left the EU in 2020. The current deal allows goods to be transported across the Irish land border without needing checks -- a sensitive issue because of Northern Ireland's troubled political history. It means that goods arriving from Britain are checked at Northern Irish ports. For this reason, unionist parties like the DUP feel the protocol undermines Northern Ireland's ties with the rest of the UK. Sunak could face a battle with pro-Brexit Conservative lawmakers and pro-British Northern Irish politicians to make the deal work, reported Al Jazeera. The political impasse has also caused a shutdown of the government in Northern Ireland, with the DUP refusing to participate in power-sharing. Key players in Northern Ireland -- which is part of the UK -- have set a high bar for the kind of deal they would support and Sunak's own Conservatives are still riddled with the divisions over Brexit that have at times paralysed British politics since the country's 2016 vote to leave the EU. As part of its exit agreement, the UK signed an accord with Brussels known as the Northern Ireland Protocol to avoid imposing politically contentious checks along the 500km land border with EU member the Republic of Ireland, reported Al Jazeera. (ANI)
Bhutan, which had earlier failed to meet targets for the elimination of malaria in 2018 and 2020, now aims to eliminate the disease by 2025, The Bhutan Live reported. Bhutan's Health Minister said that cross-border issues in the south especially during the COVID-19 pandemic have hampered the country's progress to eliminate malaria. In 2022, Bhutan recorded nine malaria cases. However, the ministry is analysing if those cases were from the community. Elimination of malaria does not imply total eradication of malaria, as per the news report. According to the Health Minister, malaria elimination is achieved when the country does not report any indigenous or community cases. It means that the country could report imported malaria cases even if the country achieves elimination status, The Bhutan Live reported. Bhutan Health minister Dasho Dechen Wangmo said that health officials are investigating every malaria case followed by contact tracing and a survey among others. The ministry has reportedly strengthened coordination with India in addition to intensifying measures to achieve the target. "We also had a series of discussions of the cross border because malaria is sort of endemic in the south. Also, there are lots of cross-border issues with malaria. So, we have a good partnership with GoI in the elimination of malaria. So, to eliminate, all these activities also need to be intensified on both sides of the countries," The Bhutan Live quoted Bhutan Health minister as saying. Bhutan's Health Minister noted that the country would be able to eliminate malaria quickly if people comply with the instructions given by the ministry, as per the news report. The minister called it important for everyone to take up individual responsibility for eliminating the disease. "If people are compliant with what we are saying, then I think we would achieve very quickly. We tell them not to keep stagnant water, people keep stagnant water, and there's the need to wear long sleeves but nobody listens," The Bhutan Live quoted Bhutan's health minister. The minister further said, "If you have symptoms, you need to report but people don't come. We are trying our best to make information available but at the same time, people will also have to follow." Bhutan has witnessed a significant drop in malaria cases with just 23 cases in 2021, The Bhutan Live reported. According to the Annual Health Bulletin of 2021, nine cases of malaria were reported within the community. (ANI)
China refuses to back down from unstinting support for Russia's protracted "special military operation" in Ukraine, but at the same time, it pretends to be a neutral peace broker to avoid international opprobrium. However, it is becoming increasingly untenable for China to maintain both positions. As China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) stated: "The China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership is built on the basis of non-alignment, non-confrontation, non-targeting of third parties. It's within the sovereignty of two independent countries. We never accept the US dictating or even coercing the Sino-Russian relationship." But its argument is disingenuous. How can China say it is "non-aligned", when it shares a comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia? How can it be "non-confrontational" when it has repeatedly refused to criticize Russia's tsar Vladimir Putin for his wanton invasion of Ukraine? China studiously refuses even to call the bloody conflagration a "war". And how can it be "not targeted at third parties", when Beijing actively diplomatically supports Russia's position, and winks at the invasion of a sovereign Ukraine? China wishes to support Russia to the hilt, yet it purports to be an honest peacemaker. In fact, Beijing seems more concerned about criticizing the USA than it does about showing sympathy for Ukraine. The Sino-Russian relationship could be set to deepen further if American predictions are realized. In February, Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned of "very real concerns" that China is contemplating lending material support to Russia's war effort. He warned: "We've seen already over these past months the provision of nonlethal assistance that does go directly to aiding and abetting Russia's war effort. And some further information that we are sharing today, and that I think will be out there soon, that indicates that they are strongly considering providing lethal assistance to Russia." Blinken was referring to China's supposed intent to supply weapons and ammunition, perhaps including drones, to Russia. If it does so, this will seriously complicate China's relations with the West. American alarm was echoed by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, who said the alliance was "increasingly concerned". Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador to the United Nations, said Chinese military support would be an unacceptable "red line". China says its relationship with Russia has no limits. If that is the case and it provides lethal aid to Russia, this would represent a seminal moment in the bloody war for Ukraine. Surely China must know this, and it would therefore disguise or hide any support. Perhaps, like its high-altitude spy balloon flying over North America, it would blame private companies and wash its hand of responsibility. Or perhaps it will provide dual-use components such as microchips, electronics, sensors and other subsystems that it would claim were "innocently" sold to Russia for civilian use. There is no doubting that China would obfuscate the issue to maximum extent. Der Spiegel alleged that China and Russia were negotiating the purchase of 100 armed drones to be delivered as soon as April. The agency named Xi'an Bingo Intelligent Aviation technology as the supplier. It is widely thought that China is already supplying commercial drones to Russia. Furthermore, Dutch public broadcaster NOS reported that Dutch microchips had reached Russian defence manufacturers after being on-sold via Chinese firms. The Wall Street Journal has alleged that China is supplying equipment such as superconductors, jet fighter parts and electronic jamming technology. China's MFA simply accused NATO of playing old tricks by raising accusations of weapon supplies. With nary a trace of irony, spokesman Wang Wenbin said China has always been on the side of peace, upholding an objective and impartial position and actively promoting peace talks. He also had the temerity to blame NATO for supplying the bulk of weapons to Ukraine, accusing it of breaching NATO's geographic confines and expanding its agenda. In other words, China would prefer the world to abandon Ukraine and allow Russia to have its violent way. NATO is the one "stoking division and tensions", Wang warbled, even though it was Russia who instigated this war. Chinese state-controlled media are also muddying the waters by accusing the USA of prolonging the war, of exploiting conflicts so that Washington DC can expand its influence and control, and so its arms manufacturers can rake in profits. The USA is "using human rights and democracy as a pretext for military intervention", Chinese torchbearers intone. China's balancing act is illustrated by Wang Yi, China's former foreign minister who was later promoted to Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission. In a diplomatic tour from 14-22 February, he attempted to assure Europe with visits to France, Italy, Germany and Hungary. However, Wang immediately afterwards went to Moscow, incidentally the first visit of a high-ranking Chinese official to Russia since the invasion a year ago. Wang even worryingly told Russia's National Security Council that China is "ready to join forces with the Russian side ... to decisively stand up for national interests and virtues". Putin himself declared that the bilateral relationship had reached "new frontiers". The two nations performed joint naval drills and bomber deployments in late 2022. Both also share antipathy towards "Western hegemony", of which the USA is the head of the beast. On the one hand, Wang was in damage control mode as China's relations with Europe fray badly. And yet he was also assuring Putin of Chinese support thanks to their special unlimited friendship. That will be further cemented as Chairman Xi Jinping travels to China in coming months. China's typical response is simply to accuse others of "smearing" it. But what should the world make of China's own deliberate smears? Zhang Meifang, China's Consul General in Ireland, demonstrated how China's wolf warrior diplomacy is alive and well. She tweeted, "What some believe 'NATO' really stands for = Not A Trustworthy Organization! What do you believe? Share your thoughts and pls retweet so others can too!" Likewise, MFA spokesman Wang Wenbin tweeted this aspersion: "The US has been falsely accusing China of offering weapons, even though the US itself is the biggest source of weaponry for Ukraine's battlefield. What's the US up to?" These are blatant examples of Chinese officials spreading propaganda designed to undermine the West. Then, Beijing released "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the UkraineCrisis" on 24 February. However, it is not a peace plan at all, as had been promised, but rather just an idealogue's statement of principles. In fact, it regurgitates many of China's favorite canards. Its contents fall under the following twelve principles: respecting the sovereignty of all countries; abandoning the Cold War mentality; ceasing hostilities; resuming peace talks; resolving the humanitarian crisis; protecting civilians and prisoners of war; keeping nuclear power plants safe; reducing strategic risks; facilitating grain exports; stopping unilateral sanctions; keeping industrial and supply chains stable; and promoting post-conflict reconstruction. As can be seen, there is little new, demonstrating that China has little constructive help to offer. Worse than that, it is hypocritical in places. "The security of a country should not be pursued at the expense of others," China proclaimed. Well, why does it not tell its friend Putin that? Drew Thompson, a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, assessed China's position paper: "To be a credible plan, it would need a geographic component. Statements addressing the return of territory to Ukraine would be welcomed by NATO and Ukraine. Even a statement drawing a line somewhere would be a starting point for negotiations. It lacks that." The American scholar continued: "It strikes me that nowhere in Beijing's statement does it state that arms should NOT be provided to belligerents. 'Avoid fanning the flames and aggravating tensions' isn't a proscription against providing arms. The absence of a proscription against arms transfers concerns me. It is possible Beijing is getting ready to provide Russia with lethal support." Wang denied that China is going to deliver weapons, and said his country is "playing by the rules". However, Thompson warned his ambiguous statement is "possibly a warning that 'the rules' as he interprets them includes providing weapons to belligerents. NATO provides arms, China can provide arms. Are those the rules as Wang Yi interprets them?" Thompson pointed out that, if China is preparing to provide arms to Russia, it gives context to Beijing's tenth and eleventh points that cover unilateral sanctions, long-arm jurisdiction against others, and that "all parties should earnestly maintain the existing world economic system and oppose using the world economy as a tool or weapon for political purposes". Ironically, China does use economic clout and trade sanctions to browbeat others. Nonetheless, Thompson mused that perhaps "China is pre-emptively arguing that it should not face economic sanctions if they provide arms to Russia". "Unfortunately for Beijing, its twelve-point principles for resolving the Ukraine conflict have no buy-in from the key stakeholders in Europe or the US, and they lack sufficient specificity to make them actionable. These principles will neither affect the conflict, nor lessen global reactions should China decide to provide arms to Russia." Europe would like China to use its leverage to persuade Moscow to reach a peace agreement. However, Chinese pledges are quite worthless and, one year later, it offers nothing new. When China urged that "the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected" and that "the legitimate security concerns of all countries should be taken seriously," the truth is that these two positions are mutually exclusive when it comes to the Ukraine conflict. China is trying to uphold opposing principles, and Russian aggression must not be rewarded with captured territory. Some commentators argue that China will end up putting more pressure on Russia, while others predict Beijing will strengthen its support for Russia's military. Such diverse opinions show just how finely balanced China's tightrope walk is. But Xi would probably be happy that such disparate views hold sway, as Beijing tries to remain as ambiguous as possible. Undoubtedly, however, China will irreparably damage its relationship with Europe if it gives military aid to Putin. Yet Xi's foreign policy and national security strategy might see that as an acceptable trade-off. The Sino-Russian relationship has been permanently altered, with Russia far more dependent on China for capital investment and technology. This gives the economic giant greater leverage over Moscow. For example, China is gaining energy at bargain basement prices right now, a boon to its struggling economy. China is also making money by reselling Russian liquid natural gas to Europe. Indeed, Russia is becoming something of a client state to China, and its strength will surely be less worrisome to Xi after this war. Yet nor does China want Russia to be badly weakened by the Ukraine conflict either. China would have applauded a rapid conquest of Ukraine, but the longer the war draws on, the more difficult a position it puts Beijing in. Additionally, Russian aggression has coalesced Western and NATO unity and support, which gives China much to think about in its own quest to subjugate Taiwan. Perhaps China imagined the West was insipid, discordant and would not resist strong-arm tactics. In the end, China is offering mere lip service to the Ukraine conflict to make itself look good, without remotely jeopardizing its friendship with Russia. (ANI)
A recent report has shown that even as the Chinese Communist Party offers young newlyweds 30 days of paid holiday as part of its three-child policy, many women are skeptical that real progress will follow. The Global Institute for Women's Leadership's new collection, Essays on Equality: The politics of childcare, pointed out the unwillingness among Chinese women to have more children. The essay has uncovered anomalies in the 3-child policy stating that the policy has infringed upon women's reproductive rights and added an unequal burden of childcare responsibilities, affecting their careers, the Voice Against Autocracy reported. The birth rate downturn in China is the result of a "one child" policy imposed between 1980 and 2015, and a surge in education costs that have put many Chinese against having more than one child, or even having any at all. The Chinese government implemented a one-child policy for 35 years (1980 to 2015) and compelled millions of women to forced contraception, forced sterilization, and forced abortion. Due to plummeting birth rates, the government wanted women to have more children and swiftly moved from a one to two-child policy in 2016. But that too failed to yield the desired results. However, the government swiftly moved to a three-child policy in 2021 and offered tax cuts, subsidies, cash rewards and other incentives. The Voice Against Autocracy reported that none of these has worked so far and China's birth rate continues to drop. The total fertility rate decreased from 2.6 in the late 1980s to just 1.15 in 2021. In fact, in 2022 the population might have declined for the first time since the Great Famine of 1959 to 1961, according to a projection by the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences. The three-child policy met with widespread cynicism online. People opposed it using an analogy of a luxury car. "I'm not buying three Rolls-Royces not because there's any restriction, but because they're expensive," a post on the Chinese social media platform Weibo read. "I want to sell my quota to rich people," wrote another. Women in China have resisted 3 child policy because of the unequal burden of childcare responsibilities and its potentially detrimental impact on their careers. A 2020 study, on the impact of family planning policy changes on urban women, reported that 45 per cent of respondents said their employment was negatively affected by pregnancy or childrearing. Over one-third of women reported financial loss, and more than 20 per cent described losing opportunities for training or promotions. Another 13 per cent said they were fired or forced to resign, and eight per cent said they experienced demotion. The study pointed out that companies do not want to hire women employees who might be absent during the three to six months of maternity leave, and the costs associated with hiring a replacement. The Chinese government has taken some steps to assist women in the workplace. In November, the government amended the Women's Rights and Interests Protection Law, the highest law concerning gender equality in the country, for the first time in nearly 30 years, the Voice Against Autocracy reported. Among the provisions to combat gender discrimination in the workplace, the law banned employers from inquiring or investigating the marital and maternal status of female job applicants or making such status a condition for employment. The Women's Protection Law, which came into effect in January 2023 is likely to strengthen enforcement, which has been poor so far. In August 2022, 17 central government agencies jointly issued a notice outlining the government's plan to increase the birth rate, with one of the major measures being increasing government-sponsored childcare facilities and services. The Chinese Communist Party's latest offer to young newlyweds is 30 days of paid holiday, it has given some hope to the government that it would boost the country's falling birth rates. China has smartly created an eco-system to ensure the fertility rate increases. Couples of reproductive age are being offered incentives so that they can comply with 3 child policy. But the reality is contrary to the government's expectations. China's population fell last year for the first time in six decades. Last year, China recorded its lowest-ever birth rate, of 6.77 births per 1,000 people. However, the government should develop programmes to reduce discriminatory gender norms related to childcare responsibilities, end discriminatory parental leave policies, expand parental leave policies and protections for both men and women who wish to take it, and ensure the availability and affordability of childcare and other forms of professional caregiving. And most importantly, the government must abolish the three-child policy because birth limits, no matter the number, are fundamentally an infringement on women's reproductive rights and bodily autonomy, stated the essay in Global Institute for Women's Leadership's new collection. (ANI)
Ahead of the Presidential elections in Nepal, the country's coalition government has been thrown into turmoil as the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) Ministers on Monday submitted their resignations to Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal. With CPN-UML ministers submitting their resignations, the incumbent government formed in late December last year has lost its majority and now it may dissolve. Prachanda now leads a minority government and would need to undertake a vote of confidence within a month. In the morning today, in a secretariat meeting of the CPN-UMP, the party decided to quit the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led government and withdraw its support. The decision by the party comes in the wake of a changed political equation in the run-up to the presidential election. Earlier this morning, UML decided to wait till the Presidential election which was scheduled to take place on March 9 but in today's meeting, the party's vice-chairman Bishnu Paudel said they decided to pull out of the government after PM Dahal 'started working in a different fashion'. The party, riled by the prime minister's direction to Minister for Foreign Affairs Bimala Rai Paudyal to cancel her Geneva trip, had summoned the secretariat meeting. "We had tried our best to remain afloat the government despite the differences we had (with Maoist Centre) and continue the support to the government but Prime Minister lately attempted to go on a different path. So we decided to withdraw our support and walk out of the government," Paudel told ANI over the phone. Further, he said, "Prime Minister blocked the scheduled visit of the Foreign Minister to Switzerland. The message about withdrawing from the government or being dismissed from the post was conveyed to us which left us with no reason to stay on board." Recently, Prachanda had asked Foreign Minister Bimala Rai Paudyal to cancel her scheduled visit to Geneva to attend a high-level session of the UN Human Rights Council. Paudyal who is from UML was leading a five-member delegation including a secretary from the prime minister's office, foreign ministry officials and former minister Govinda Bandi as an expert. (ANI)
Amid the growing conflict with the US, China is using its courts and patent panels to undermine foreign intellectual-property rights and help Chinese businesses, especially in technology, pharmaceuticals and rare-earth minerals, says American and EU officials, The Wall Street Journal reported. China leans on an array of levers to pry technology from American companies. In 2018, The Wall Street Journal laid out the example of Beijing's plan to pry technology from other nations. DuPont Co. suspected its onetime partner in China was getting hold of its prized chemical technology and spent more than a year fighting in arbitration trying to make it stop. Then, 20 investigators from China's antitrust authority showed up. For four days this past December, they fanned out through DuPont's Shanghai offices, demanding passwords to the company's worldwide research network, say people briefed on the raid. Investigators printed documents, seized computers and intimidated employees, accompanying some to the bathroom. And to strengthen its control over technology from the US, now, China is using the legal system. A US manufacturer of X-ray equipment had a decade-old patent invalidated by a Chinese legal panel. A Spanish mobile antenna designer lost a similar fight in a Shanghai court. Another Chinese court ruled that a Japanese conglomerate broke antitrust law by refusing to license its technology to a Chinese rival, reported The Wall Street Journal. In China's 20th National Congress, in October 2022, President Xi Jinping secured the third term and pledged to help the country in becoming a global innovator and also to help it prosper further. "We will increase investment in science and technology through diverse channels and strengthen the legal protection of intellectual property rights, in order to establish a foundational system for all-around innovation," he told Chinese lawmakers. The battle over China's acquisition of technology has raged for years. Counterfeit products and logo look-alikes are pervasive in China. Recently, Beijing has tried to crack down on domestic companies violating the intellectual-property rights of some foreign firms. In July, luxury shoemaker Manolo Blahnik said it won a long-running trademark dispute against a Chinese businessman accused of improperly selling shoes under a similar name. Officials in the U.S. and EU and executives at some Western companies, however, say Beijing is going the opposite route in some industries. China's State Administration for Market Regulation, the government body that oversees all intellectual-property matters, and the Chinese embassy in Washington didn't respond to requests for comment, according to The Wall Street Journal. The conflict is central to the growing competition between the US and China for technological and economic superiority. The U.S. has slapped restrictions on chip-related exports to China. Beijing has accused the U.S. of politicizing science and technology to try to protect American leadership in those fields. In December, the EU sued China in the World Trade Organization on behalf of Swedish telecom-equipment maker Ericsson AB and other companies, complaining that China has barred EU companies from suing to protect their patents in courts outside China. The EU called China's policy "extremely damaging," saying Chinese companies requested the intervention "to pressure patent right holders to grant them cheaper access to European technology." Canada, Japan and the U.S. had asked to join an initial version of the European complaint, which the EU said could now take about 18 months to adjudicate, reported The Wall Street Journal. (ANI)
An educationist, who was also a senior office-bearer of the private schools' association, was gunned down on Sunday, in what police described as a 'targeted attack' in Karachi's Gulistan-i-Jauhar area. Victim Syed Khalid Raza, 55, was the deputy director of the Darul Arqam Schools, Karachi region. He was also the vice chairman of the Federation of Private Schools Pakistan. The police said that the incident took place at Gulistan-i-Jauhar Block-7 near his home. Superintendent of Police-East Zubair Nazeer Shaikh said that the victim came out of his home towards his car parked nearby. He said assailants on a motorcycle emerged there, opened fire at him and rode away. He suffered a single bullet wound in the head and died on the spot. The police said that it appeared that the assailants were waiting for him. "Definitely, it appears to be a targeted killing incident," said the SSP. The body was shifted to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for a post-mortem examination. Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah took notice of the targeted killing of the educationist and directed the Karachi police chief to investigate the case and submit his findings to him. In a similar incident, on Sunday morning, at least four people were killed and 12 wounded in an explosion inside the Rakhni market in Balochistan's Barkhan on Sunday morning, reported Business Recorder quoting Aaj News. The injured persons have been moved to a nearby hospital while security forces cordoned off the area for investigation. The incident came a day after two policemen were killed and two were injured in a remote-controlled blast in Balochistan's Khuzdar district. Earlier this week, security forces killed eight militants during a combing operation in Balochistan's Kech district, the military's media affairs wing said, the B Recorder reported. According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), terrorists tried to ambush a convoy of security forces in District Kech of Balochistan on the evening of February 22. It said that alert and combat-ready troops not only foiled the cowardly attack without any loss of life, but they also immediately commenced a follow-up operation to hunt down the fleeing terrorists using ground and aviation assets. "As a result, on the morning of February 23, a suspected hideout of terrorists was identified in Mazaaband Range where a sanitisation operation was launched. In the ensuing, and heavy exchange of fire, eight terrorists were killed while a large cache of arms and ammunition including explosives was recovered," the ISPR said. "Security forces of Pakistan will continue to thwart any attempt by inimical elements on the behest of hostile intelligence agencies, to disrupt hard-earned peace in the province," it added. (ANI)
The Islamabad district and sessions court has approved Shahbaz Gill's, the leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and a former SAPM, exemption plea in a sedition case on Monday, according to ARY News. According to details, the court postponed the indictment process as it heard the sedition case against PTI leader Shahbaz Gill. According to the court, the former SAPM will be charged with another sedition case on March 11. The court was requested by the special prosecutor Rizwan Abbasi to hear both cases tomorrow. Shahbaz Gill, a close aide of former Pakistan PM Imran Khan, has submitted two appeals to the Additional Sessions Judge Court, asking that the proceedings be halted pending the outcome of the Supreme Court's sou-moto decision in the murder case of Journalist Arshad Sharif. The indictment of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former SAPM Shahbaz Gill in a sedition case was previously set for February 27 by an Islamabad district and sessions court. The Islamabad court had denied Gill's request for an acquittal after hearing arguments and ordered him to be indicted on February 27. Notably, Gill was the subject of a case opened at the Kohsar police station in Islamabad. He was charged with dividing the government organisation. This was not the first time when Gill had applied for an exemption plea. Earlier, in August 2022, his bail petition was dismissed by a district and sessions court in Islamabad. However, Gill's counsel had revealed during the same hearing that the case was a misunderstanding and that the PTI chief's aide was willing to issue an apology. Burhan Muazzam, Gill's co-counsel had said that Shahbaz Gill was ready to apologise as well and also asked about who gave the right to frame a sedition case against Gill, the Dawn newspaper had reported. Gill too stated that the case against him was registered on a political basis and his remarks were distorted and taken in the wrong context."I'm a professor and teaching students at various universities abroad," Gill said adding that he is fixed in the case on the basis of 'dishonesty' and pleaded with the court to grant him bail in the case. Gill was arrested by the police on August 9, 2022, after he made controversial remarks against the Pakistan army on television that was deemed as "highly hateful and seditious" by the country's media authority. The Pakistani publication claimed that the PTI leader had attempted to incite hatred in the Pakistan Army while speaking on ARY News a day prior, which has been restricted in certain parts of the country. (ANI)
Two people, whom the Pakistani police called "terrorists," were killed in a gunfight with security personnel in the Spin Wam area of North Waziristan province, stated Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement. Details indicate that during the violent encounter, the security forces killed two "terrorists" and detained two others. Two Pakistan Army soldiers, Sipahi Imran Ullah and Sipahi Afzal Khan were killed during the battle with militants, according to the army's media wing. The ISPR reported that the terrorists who were slain had also left behind guns and ammo. The military's propaganda branch claims that the terrorists were responsible for attacks on security personnel and innocent bystanders. The ISPR spokesperson added that occurrences like this confirm the Armed forces' resolve to confront any group that uses violence and that these sacrifices would only increase their determination to eradicate the threat of terrorism from the nation. On December 29, three Pakistani Army soldiers were killed after engaging in an exchange of fire with militants in the Kurram area of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP). According to the military's media wing, three Pakistan Army troops died during a gunfight between security forces and militants in the Arawali area in the Kurram region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In a statement, the ISPR claimed that Pakistani troops bravely engaged the terrorists' base of operations. "Two terrorists were also killed during a fierce exchange of fire. The terrorists who were slain had weapons and ammo," it added. Such terrorist incidents are on a rise in Pakistan. Recently, on February 17, two terrorists were killed in an exchange of fire with Pakistani security forces, in the then-ongoing terrorist attack on the Karachi police chief's office, according to Pakistan's ARY News. The Inspector General (IG) of Sindh Police said that 2 terrorists were killed in the exchange of fire with the security officials while the operation is still underway to neutralise possibly up to five more terrorists in the Karachi Police Office (KPO), reported ARY News. (ANI)
Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) has welcomed the first flight from Sphinx International Airport - the second international airport in Cairo, Egypt, serving the Western part of the capital - by Air Cairo.

Air Cairo will operate two weekly flights on Fridays and Mondays. This step emphasises Airport International Groups commitment to offering passengers a broad range of affordable direct route options to major regional cities.

The flight was welcomed by representatives from Airport International Group, as well as the carriers general sales agent in Jordan, Alpha International for Travel and Tourism, and its ground handler, Menzies AHS.

Non-stop link

The first flight from Sphinx International Airport establishes yet another non-stop link to Egypts capital via Air Cairo. The importance of this connection lies not only in offering our passengers more affordable travel options, but also in opening new opportunities for leisure and business travel between Egypt and Jordan. We remain committed to expanding our partnerships and routes and providing top-notch services and conveniences to passengers travelling through the kingdoms prime gateway to the world, commented Airport International Group CEO, Nicolas Claude.-- TradeArabia News Service
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will visit India in the first week of March to attend the 8th Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi as Chief Guest, according to a statement released by External Affairs Ministry. According to the statement, the Italian PM will visit India on March 2-3 and will be accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajan and a high-powered business delegation. This will be the first bilateral Very Very Important Person (VVIP) visit from Italy to India. In 2018, the last PM visited India. "PM Meloni will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and PM Meloni will hold discussions on bilateral, regional and global issues. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will call on PM Meloni. The visiting PM will call on President Smt Droupadi Murmu in the afternoon of 02 March 2023," the statement read. "India and Italy are celebrating 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations this year. The multifaceted bilateral relationship is based on shared cultural values, commitment to foster economic growth, and collaboration in the fields of green energy, science and tech, and defence and is marked by convergence on regional and global issues. The two countries have also been cooperating closely in various multilateral forums," the statement added. During her visit, PM Meloni is expected to strengthen further and deepen the long-standing relationship between India and Italy. Both sides will take stock of the progress on the key outcomes of the November 2020 Summit, strengthen security and defence cooperation, work towards closer economic ties, enhance the opportunity for talent mobility and give strategic guidance to ongoing collaboration in Science and Technology. A business roundtable will be organised on March 2, which will be co-chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani and Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal. Meanwhile, Raisina Dialogue is all set to take place from March 2-4, 2023 at the Taj Palace Hotel, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi. (ANI)
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk has condemned Russia's "senseless" invasion of Ukraine and stressed that the UN body needs to forge a new worldwide consensus on human rights, broadening its base of support, according to the statement released by UN's OHCHR. While addressing the Human Rights Council session at which countries want to strengthen scrutiny of Moscow's alleged war crimes, Turk said, "The old destructive wars of aggression from a bygone era with worldwide consequences, as we have witnessed again in Europe with the senseless Russian invasion of Ukraine." He also recalled the old movement against indigenous discrimination like "Black Lives Matter; #MeToo; and Fridays for Future" and many more. Young people, in particular, consistently speak in the language of human rights when giving voice to their concerns, Turk said in the session. He also stated, "I pay tribute to all human rights defenders of the past and present." Human rights is a force to reckon with, not because it serves the interests of the powerful, but because it has captured the imagination of the powerless. Still, the oppression of the past can return, in various disguises, according to the statement. "The new, supple artificial intelligence, blurring fact and fiction and raising uncharted risks - and the tumultuous online world where viral deceptions threaten our elections, our health, our security, and more," UN Human Rights Chief said. He also hoped that this year will be the moment in which the world will finally shift the balance from exploitation of digital technology for profit and oppression, to greater investment in digital innovation to tackle our biggest challenges - poverty, climate change, and inequality. "With an eye to the past, as well as to the future; in the spirit of "never again", and in the interest of inter-generational justice, it is critical that we rekindle the spirit, the impulse and the vitality that led to the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 75 years ago," Turk stated. "We need to forge a new worldwide consensus on human rights, broadening its base of support and moving forward together in recognition that our survival depends on finding our way back to that common language," he added. Talking about UN OHCHR, Turk stated that the institution exists to advance all civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, on an equal footing, as well as the right to development and the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment, is in a unique position to rebuild this shared respect for each other's dignity. The organisation's goal is to promote and implement a 21st-century human rights vision that is transformative; solution-oriented; unifying; and speaks directly to every person's need for justice and search for meaning in life, the statement read. It is against this backdrop that we have embarked this year on the Human Rights 75 initiative, first and foremost, to rebuild trust, the statement added. (ANI)
Denmark Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities Lars Aagaard during his visit to India said that when it comes to the green strategic partnership between the two countries, Green energy remains the focus and that Danish companies would like to develop their businesses in India. Denmark Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities Lars Aagaard also met with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday, where issues related to climate and energy were discussed. "It's mainly Green energy, we have a partnership, and we have some Danish Companies that are interested in developing their business in India and hopefully also eager to learn more about the challenges", said the Minister said while speaking to ANI. The Green Strategic partnership between India and Denmark consolidates the existing agreement establishing a Joint Commission for Cooperation between the two countries. The partnership is a mutually beneficial arrangement to advance political cooperation, expand economic relations and green growth, create jobs and strengthen cooperation on addressing global challenges and opportunities; with a focus on an ambitious implementation of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Speaking further about the partnership, the minister said that when it comes to green, all the countries in the world need affordable, secure renewables. "I think it's a very important partnership for both countries. All the countries in the world need affordable, secure and green renewables in the electricity sector and it has to become cost-effective because we all need that. Denmark for many years has worked on how we can integrate very large numbers in our energy system and we are so happy to share that insight with the Indian society," said the minister. Stressing upon the climate challenge, the minister said that each other has something to offer. "Climate change is a global challenge for all of us. Everybody has something to bring to the table. No country can do exactly the same. But India is such a high economy, that India must go green as well. Denmark will move a little ahead as well. We have been working on our electricity sector and I am so pleased that both countries can work together", said the minister. The minister is part of the Denmark delegation led by Denmark's royal couple who are on an India visit. The couple who is on a visit to India will address the opening session of the India-Denmark: Partners for Green & Sustainable Progress organized by CII. He also met President Draupadi Murmu, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). During the visit, the Danish royal couple will visit Chennai. (ANI)
The Foreign Minister of China, who has provided strong political backing for Russia in its invasion of Ukraine, said his country wants to play a role in ending the conflict, the Voice Of America (VOA) reported. Qin Gang told participants at a security conference in Beijing that China was concerned the almost yearlong war could escalate further and spin "out of control." China would continue to urge peace talks and provide "Chinese wisdom" to bring about a political settlement, he said. "At the same time, we urge relevant countries to immediately stop adding fuel to the fire, stop shifting blame to China, and stop hyping up the discourse of Ukraine today, Taiwan tomorrow," Qin said in an apparent reference to the military support provided to Ukraine by the United States and its allies, as well as concerns that China is preparing to make good on its threats to use force to assert its claim over Taiwan, a self governing island democracy. As reported by the VOA, China has refused to condemn Russia's invasion or atrocities against Ukrainian civilians and strongly criticized Western economic sanctions against Moscow. In deference to Moscow, it has yet to describe the conflict as an invasion. China and Russia have aligned their foreign policies to oppose the U.S and weeks before the Ukraine invasion, their leaders declared a partnership with "no limits." China also says Russia was provoked into using military force by NATO's eastward expansion. The VOA reported that despite that, Qin reiterated China's claim that it has "always taken an objective and impartial stance based on the merits of the issue." "China is deeply worried about the escalation of the situation and even the possibility of it going out of control," Qin said. He said Chinese President Xi Jinping had put forward proposals that have "played a responsible and constructive role in easing the situation and de-escalating the crisis," without offering any details or evidence. "We will continue to promote peace talks, provide Chinese wisdom for the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, and work with the international community to promote dialogue and consultation to address the concerns of all parties and seek common security," Qin said. China has opposed criticism of Russia at the United Nations while insisting that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations be respected, a position that underpins its claim to Taiwan, which separated from the mainland amid civil war more than 70 years ago. Wang's trip to Russia follows talks Saturday with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of an international security conference in Munich. Blinken said he reiterated to Wang that any Chinese material support for the Russian armed forces would trigger a strong response from Washington. Thus far, the U.S. says there are no indications that China is doing so, although its close economic ties with Russia have offered a lifeline to Putin's regime. Russia, in turn, has offered strong support for China and held a series of joint military drills amid tensions with the U.S. over Taiwan, trade, human rights and Chinese territorial claims in the South China Sea. China's Foreign Ministry issued a lengthy statement Tuesday outlining Xi's "Global Security Initiative," which aims to "eliminate the root causes of international conflicts, improve global security governance, encourage joint international efforts to bring more stability and certainty to a volatile and changing era, and promote durable peace and development in the world." In its only reference to Russia's invasion, it said the initiative would "support the political settlement of hotspot issues such as the Ukraine crisis through dialogue and negotiation." At a daily briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin criticized military aid provided to Ukraine by the U.S. and its allies, saying that "the U.S. claims to maintain peace, but actually it is making money from the crisis." "There are enough facts to show the true nature of the U.S. as a source of trouble rather than a defender of peace for the world," Wang said. The U.S. has committed about $113 billion in aid to Ukraine since last year, while European allies have committed tens of billions of dollars more and welcomed millions of Ukrainian refugees who have fled the conflict. Such aid is funded by the U.S. and other foreign taxpayers, with Ukraine under no obligation to provide repayment as it seeks to withstand renewed Russian attempts to regain territory it had earlier conquered. Wang also defended China's "comprehensive strategic partnership" with Russia as "based on non-alignment, non-confrontation and non-targeting of third parties, which is within the sovereignty of two independent countries." (ANI)
A Chinese J-11 fighter jet armed with air-to-air missiles intercepted the US Navy reconnaissance jet over the South China Sea, the Wall Street Journal reported. "American aircraft, this is the PLA air force. You are approaching Chinese airspace. Keep a safe distance or you will be intercepted," a Chinese military ground station broadcast to the P-8, using the abbreviation for the People's Liberation Army," the Wall Street Journal reported. Such types of encounters are not new over the South China Sea as Islands are the subject of overlapping territorial claims in part from China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. A Chinese J-11 jet fighter, armed with four air-to-air missiles, appeared at the rear of an American P-8 patrol aircraft, passed above and settled a few hundred feet from the wing of the U.S. Navy plane, the Wall Street Journal reported. Not only does the strategic waterway hold vast resources of fish, oil and gas, but about a third of global shipping passes through it - worth about USD 3.4 trillion in 2016, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies' (CSIS) China Power Project. The escalation between China and US happened when US shot down a suspected Chinese spy balloon after it passed over American airspace earlier this month. An F-22A fighter of the US Air Force's 1st Fighter Wing, taking off from Langley Air Force Base, splashed the high-flying balloon with an AIM-9X Sidewinder missile after it had crossed the coast of South Carolina. The balloon was flying at between 60,000 and 65,000 feet. China said it was a civilian meteorological balloon that blew off course. Beijing has in turn accused the US. of spying on China, including by using patrol aircraft over the South China Sea. China claims almost all of the resource-rich maritime region, which is also an important trade route. In December, the U.S. accused a Chinese jet fighter of flying within 20 feet of a US reconnaissance plane over the South China Sea. Beijing said the US plane veered suddenly toward the jet. China hasn't responded to U.S. calls for talks about unsafe military encounters. China has built military bases on artificial islands in the waters and also conducts regular military exercises in much of the South China Sea and maintains a large presence of coast guard and fishing vessels in the disputed waters. That puts it into a confrontation with other countries in the region that also have territorial claims and adds to U.S. concerns about trade routes and regional security. Earlier this month, the Philippines said China's coast guard used a military-grade laser against a Philippine coast guard ship in the South China Sea US patrol aircraft flying over the South China Sea on most days to push back on China's claims of control of the region, as well as to record images of the militarization of artificial islands. The Wall Street Journal flew on a P-8 patrol plane Friday as the crew used cameras, radar and other sensors to look at ships, aircraft and facilities on the islands. The encounter between the P-8 and the Chinese jet fighter occurred a few dozen miles north of the Paracel Islands, claimed by both China and Vietnam. China has built military facilities on some of the islands. China's foreign ministry didn't respond to questions about what territory it claims in the South China Sea or what it thinks about U.S. patrol flights. After the December incident, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman said: "The U.S. has frequently deployed aircraft and vessels for close-in reconnaissance on China, which poses a serious danger to China's national security. The U.S.'s provocative and dangerous moves are the root cause of maritime security issues." "China will continue to take necessary measures to resolutely defend its sovereignty and security," the spokesman said. The P-8 returned to its base in Okinawa, Japan, flying close to two Chinese naval destroyers, one north of the Philippines and another around 38 nautical miles off the eastern coast of Taiwan. The aircraft is one of seven P-8 planes belonging to Patrol Squadron 10, which is based in Jacksonville, Fla., and currently on a six-month rotation in Japan. (ANI)
Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava on Monday handed over the college building of Madan Bhandari Memorial College, Kathmandu built with the Government of India's financial assistance. The ceremony was attended by Mahendra Bahadur Pandey, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Government of Nepal, Chairperson of the College Management Committee; Usha Kiran Bhandari, Chairperson, Madan Bhandari Foundation and Santosh Budathoki, Chairperson, of District Coordination Committee, Kathmandu. "This was a combined effort of the community, of the foundation, of the college and of our neighbourly country's (India) goodwill. So this is an exemplary building. It shows that we have a commitment towards the education system, just distribution, and access to education. I see this as representative of all that feeling and emotions," Usha Kiran Bhandari, Chairperson of Madan Bhandari Foundation said addressing the event. The project was taken up as a High Impact Community Development Project at the total cost of NRs.28.64 million under 'The Nepal-India Development Cooperation'. Since its inception, the college has been imparting quality education. It is affiliated with Tribhuvan University and has over 1500 students from different districts of the country and offers a variety of courses. "This building was built with the support of the Government of India under our developmental partnership cooperation with Nepal. The building comprises 29 classrooms, a library, conference halls, and other facilities. India through our embassy has been doing such a community developmental project- High Impact Community Developmental Project since the year 2003. To date in almost all the districts of Nepal we have undertaken more than 530 such projects covering various areas including water and sanitation, educational facilities medical facilities and anything that a community require," said Indian Ambassador Naveen Srivastava. Since 2003, India has taken up over 535 High Impact Community Development Projects in Nepal and has completed 478 projects. Amongst these, 104 Projects are in Bagmati Pradesh including 40 projects in Kathmandu District. In addition to these, the Government of India has gifted 68 Ambulances and 46 School Buses to various hospitals, health posts and educational institutions in Kathmandu, to date, including one School bus given to this College. The implementation of this project reflects the continued support of the Government of India in bolstering the efforts of the Government of Nepal for the upliftment of its people, through the creation of education infrastructure. (ANI)
Underlining the strong relationship between the Kingdom and India, Saleh Eid Al Husseini, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to India said that he wants to bring this relationship to the highest level. Speaking on the celebrations of the Kingdom's founding day here, the envoy said he was happy to have strong and friendly relationship between the two countries. "We are very happy to have a strong relationship with our friendly country India. Also for a long time, we have had this relationship and we have been asked to bring this relationship to the highest level that we can", said Husseini. While speaking on the foundation day celebration, the envoy highlighted the Kingdom's governance and how the youth has been its focus as the next generation. "We are very proud to have a country that started in 1727 and this year as I said reflects good governance and we hold our future, our children and all our Saudi Arabia is now focussing on youth on the next generation", said the Envoy. "Our country is celebrating around 300 years and this reflects nations' governance, reflects equity, to have the prosperity of their people. To bring modernization and at the same time to regain the culture of the society. It's not by chance to be 300 years old unless the state is caring about its neighbours, caring about its people, seeking peace all over the world", added the envoy. The history of the Kingdom's "Founding Day" goes back three centuries ago when the first Saudi state was established in 1727 during the leadership of Imam Muhammad bin Saud. (ANI)
In the month of January, a massive, unidentified, high-altitude white balloon, flew over U.S. territory and allegedly carried surveillance equipment. The U.S. shot down the massive Chinese alleged surveillance high-altitude balloon (HAB) over the Atlantic Ocean off South Carolina after it spent days travelling across the country, the Indo-Pacific Centre for Strategic Communications (IPCSC) reported. Soon after, sightings of more balloons were reported over Latin America. The Colombian Air Force initiated an investigation of an object with similar characteristics to a balloon detected above 55,000 feet in the northern sector of the country. Similarly, Costa Rica's Civil Aviation confirmed spotting a massive balloon flying over the capital, San Jose. IPCSC reported that several such balloons have encroached on US airspace in recent years, evading early detection at the time. At least four balloons have been spotted over Hawaii, Florida, Texas, and Guam. Three of the four instances took place during the Trump administration but were only recently identified as Chinese surveillance airships. As per the report by IPCSC, the balloons can be operated at a very high altitude, as high as 68,000 meters, making it more difficult for aircraft to reach them. The alleged spy balloons are much harder to detect with modern radars. The choice of using helium-infused military-grade balloons offers easier manoeuvrability, allows the operator to extract precise data, can function perfectly well withstanding the harshest of weather, and is cost-effective. China has since operated a fleet of spy balloons over the years targeting several countries, which have been spotted over five continents. The military surveillance balloon effort has been based in Hainan Province, off China's south coast, and has extracted data and information on military assets in countries and areas that are emerging as strategic interests for China, such as India, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Philippines, as per the report by the Indo Pacific Centre for Strategic Communications. A similar-looking object was spotted hovering high over an important naval facility in India. One of the balloons was captured on camera flying over Port Blair. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the Indian Ocean are home to a strategically placed Indian Naval Facility, giving China all the more reasons to snoop around. And on that note, Japan voraciously joined the balloon saga, confirming that Chinese surveillance balloons had entered its airspace at least three times in the last few years. The international uproar over the balloons has shed light on China's military surveillance capabilities. The U.S. has since recovered sensors and other electronic equipment from the wreckage, which insinuates the balloon was likely used for eavesdropping on electronic signals. On further analysis of the debris, the balloon was equipped to detect and collect intelligence signals as part of a huge, military-linked aerial surveillance program. China has been developing new balloon surveillance technology for years. These surveillance airships are part of the People's Liberation Army's joint air force efforts. The balloons were precisely developed to conduct surveillance operations, i.e., gather intelligence, which violates the sovereignty of those targeted countries. Several intelligence examiners have concluded that the balloons supposedly belong to the CCP's mysterious 5th force of the PLA, or "Stratospheric Army," as some call it. The PLA is utilising HAB for intelligence and reconnaissance activities that are capable of an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) attack. The high-altitude balloons that floated over military bases in several countries are considered a key "delivery platform" for secret nuclear strikes. China requires significant amounts of helium to produce these high-altitude balloons to boost President Xi Jinping's yearning for a "world-class" military to guard Beijing's rise as a superpower. Xi has pushed for the recruitment of commercial businesses to help fulfil his desires for China's military modernisation. The "military-civil fusion" programme aims to create a symbiotic relationship that provides the PLA with wider, faster access to commercial innovations. First, China opens its first large-scale helium plant capable of commercial production. The Chinese Academy of Sciences, which designed and built the plant, projects an annual output of 20 tonnes in the form of liquid helium. The helium plant project was China's first step towards reducing its reliance on US imports. The new facility will produce a fraction of China's needs but more than enough to fuel Xi's military capability agenda. The facility is relatively inexpensive, and it could be the key to the mass production of more helium plants in China to meet the country's annual helium consumption of more than 4,300 tonnes. Noble gas is used for making hi-tech products and will likely be used to build more balloons. Although China relies on the United States for the majority of its helium requirements, the spy balloon fiasco could lead to additional US sanctions, particularly on helium. Second, the manufacturer of the Chinese spy balloons, "Zhuzhou Rubber Research & Design Institute Co. Ltd.," is a state-owned military research institute with a weapon production license. The research institute develops and manufactures military products and is hailed as the sole manufacturing company of the China Meteorological Administration and the Military Equipment Development Department of the PLA's Battlefield Environment Protection Bureau. In the shocking aftermath of being exposed for manufacturing these balloons, the research institute later deleted all the information from its official website. Several Chinese companies associated with the "military-civil fusion" programme that was blacklisted by the US earlier this month over the ballooning controversy have ties to this effort. The six companies include Beijing Nanjiang Aerospace Technology Co.; China Electronics Technology Group Corporation's 48th Research Institute; and Dongguan Lingkong Remote Sensing Technology Co. The other three are Eagles Men Aviation Science and Technology Group Co.; Guangzhou Tian-Hai-Xiang Aviation Technology Co.; and Shanxi Eagles Men Aviation Science and Technology Group Co. The Chinese state-owned media deploys its propaganda tactics, insisting that the balloon was a "civilian airship" used for research, mainly for meteorological purposes, that deviated from its original trajectory. After the balloons were shot down, China expressed detestation towards America's unnecessary hyping "spy" drama. And to no surprise, they were quick to push controversial claims about the US military spying on the Chinese. The timing of these events unfolding seemed strategically planned; right before U.S. top diplomat Antony Blinken was set to meet China's top diplomats to further assess their bilateral relations, it was postponed after the balloons were sighted. Apart from collecting data, the spy balloon sends a strong political message to the world about China's PLA capabilities and progress in the technological realm. The espionage could have been a trial run to test the efficacy of AI-powered balloons in foreign airspace. Either way, there is a new threat to reckon with globally. (ANI)
The restrictions on female education are posing a negative impact on the universities in Afghanistan as the enrollment in educational centres declined by 70 per cent, said the union of universities and education centres, TOLOnews reported. Mohammad Karim Nasiri, the media director of the union, stated that the tally of participants had witnessed a dip of 70 per cent. Universities and other educational institutions' owners have expressed fear that they may have to close them if the current state of affairs persists, read a report of TOLOnews. Shir Ali Zarifi, president of Dawat university said that it had damaged the university's activities because they used to receive income from two sources but now have only one source. Mawlawi Mohammad Neda Nadim, Taliban-appointed interim minister for higher education, pledged support for the nation's educational system on Saturday during a religious event. According to university professors, the country's declining university enrollment is primarily due to poverty and the country's ban on girls attending school past the sixth grade. Fazal Hadi Wazin, a university instructor, argued that the Islamic Emirate should reopen its female-only universities, abandon its strict regulations, and permit its pupils to pursue higher education. A university teacher, Sayed Jawad Sijadi said, "The return of students to universities and studies will increase if rules that can be trusted are implemented for the future." According to data from the organisation, 40 universities will have to close if limits on girls' access to education are not eased. Notably, Afghan women continue to grapple with education challenges due to Taliban-imposed bans. In reaction to this, a couple of days ago, a group of Afghan women announced the launch of Afghanistan's Women's Revolution in Kabul to fight for fundamental human and women rights in the country, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported. According to one of the organizers, Donya Safi, the movement aimed to "protect the basic rights of citizens, particularly women, as access to basic rights is a serious requirement for the citizens." We started this campaign to fight the injustice and inequity against women, reported Amu TV, according to Khaama Press. (ANI)
Over five dozen protesters gathered outside a building housing a Chinese 'police station' accused of spying on dissidents in the Chinese community in New York, The New York Post reported. On Saturday, the protesters gathered outside 107 East Broadway where the ChangLe Association Inc, a non-profit which operates a "service station" above the noodle shop. One of the protesters, Toni Cai said, "It's a very serious problem in the Chinese community," adding that CCP has coerced people from China severely and has a large influence on them in the state, through American and Asian-American politicians. Dozens of demonstrators protested outside a Chinatown building housing a foreign police station accused of harassing and spying on Chinese nationals in the city, reported The New York Post. Cai is a pro-democracy activist imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party twice in China for promoting free speech. He immigrated to the US in 2000, he told The Post. "I am very worried, but I want to support the community leaders who are honest and openly against what the CCP is doing," he added. Meanwhile, Jing Zhang, founder and executive director of Women's Rights in China, echoed the thought as she joined the protesters outside the Lower Manhattan building. "People need to support each other," she said "We all came here to be free." Earlier, FBI counterintelligence raided this office building in New York. According to The New York Post, the Chinese police station is run with the help of a US charity that is on an IRS blacklist. In May, the IRS yanked the group's tax-exempt status for its failure to submit tax filings for three straight years, according to public records, according to The New York Post. The non-profit, which was incorporated in New York in 2013 and listed its charitable mission as a "social gathering place for Fujianese people," paid USD 1.3 million three years later for the suite of offices that houses the Fuzhou Police Overseas Chinese Affairs bureau, filings show. The stations also participate in "intimidation, harassment, detention or imprisonment" to spy on dissenters and return migrants to China, according to the report. "We Chinese are very angry at the local government for their appeasement policy," said Quiam Jiu, who was at the protest with his daughter, Zhao Yue Auiam. "They let the CCP repress freedom and human rights activities. We want local government to have a high-pressure policy on CCP agents." "CCP agents are everywhere," said Ziyun Huang, who was also at the Saturday protest. Last year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams was a guest of honour at a gala dinner sponsored by the charity that operates the Chinatown police station, The Post revealed. "CCP agents are everywhere," said Ziyun Huang, who was also at the Saturday protest. "When all the human rights groups have protests and demonstrations, the CCP will come and harass people. "The CCP affects the average Chinese American tremendously," Huang continued. "The party is always in the back of their mind. Everything they do is psychological. CCP to the Chinese is like the weather -- they are always in the background," he added. (ANI)
The recently unveiled Union Budget of India for Financial Year 2023-24 was closely watched by foreign policy mandarins as well as India's aid recipient countries. Although the aid package for the upcoming fiscal year has been slashed from Rs. 6,292.30 Crore in 2022-23 to Rs. 5,408.37 Crore for 2023-24, yet the intent to boost a cooperative partnership with these countries remains with a focus on targeted interventions, Bhutan Live reported. While the budget has been slashed for most of the countries, the aid package for Bhutan, Maldives and Latin America saw an uptick. Where for Bhutan the aid figure rose from Rs. 2,266 Crore to Rs. 2,400 Crore, for the Maldives it rose from Rs. 360 Crore to Rs. 400 Crore and for Latin American countries Rs. 40 Crore to Rs. 50 Crore. Bhutan Live reported that Maldives is among a few countries whose budget aid has increased from Rs. 360 Crore to Rs. 400 Crore owing to New Delhi's engagements in the Great Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) and other high-impact community development projects (HICDP). The budget for Afghanistan, Africa and Other Developing Countries remained the same at Rs. 200 Crore, Rs. 250 Crore and Rs. 150 Crore respectively. For the development of Chabahar port in Iran, a separate allocation of 100 Crore has been earmarked, the same as it was the previous fiscal. The continued aid to Afghanistan despite the Taliban regime still not having earned international legitimacy shows India's concern and care for the people of Afghanistan who are facing one of the worst humanitarian crises including food and medicine shortages. India has civilisational ties with Afghans and has always come to their aid, irrespective of the political dispensation there. As per the report by Bhutan Live, despite Iran facing international sanctions, India has not abandoned Iran. As a responsible state, India is continuing with its commitment to developing the Chabahar port which will help not only India gain access to Central Asia but will also improve Iran's economic prospects such as through better trade and employment opportunities for local people. For Sri Lanka, although the aid package has been slashed from Rs. 200 Crore to Rs. 150 Crore, India is already helping Sri Lanka tide over its worst economic and financial crisis since independence. India has thus far extended aid worth over $ 4 billion to help the island nation manage immediate and urgent needs such as that payment for essential commodities, medicines, fuel and food items. India has also shown its largesse by restructuring the debt to enable Sri Lanka to get a bailout package from the IMF worth $2.9 billion. The Bhutan Live reported that the bilateral relationship between India and Bhutan shares unique and time-tested traditionally close ties, characterized by utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding. Consequent to such a powerful bond, the aid package for Bhutan has also increased, despite the general cut in the budget for foreign aid. India has been Bhutan's foremost development partner. India has been a consistent supporter of Bhutan's socio-economic development, best reflected in their hydropower cooperation, a sector that is the primary driver of Bhutan's economy contributing 14% to its GDP. India began providing aid to Bhutan for its socioeconomic development since the 1960s. Since the launch of Bhutan's Five-Year Plans, India has been its principal development partner. The lion's share of Bhutan's total external grant is borne by India. For instance, for the current 12th Five-Year Plan (2018-23) of Bhutan, India's contribution of Rs. 4,500 crore constitutes 73% of the total external grant to Bhutan. The key areas where India provides aid to Bhutan include agriculture and irrigation development, industrial development, health, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), energy, civil aviation, human resource development, urban development, road transport, scholarship, education, culture and capacity building. Thus, it is the whole gamut of developmental sectors where India has been supporting Bhutan's socio-economic development through its aid contribution. India funded Bhutan's entire first (1961-66) and second (1967-72) Five Year Plans. Between 2000 and 2017, India has given aid amounting to USD 4.7 Billion to Bhutan. In the current Five Year Plan, i.e. 12th FYP, Indian assistance is helping Bhutan implement numerous development projects. These include 51 large and immediate projects and 359 Small Development Projects or what is known as High Impact Community Development Projects. India is also Bhutan's largest trade partner, accounting for about 80% of Bhutan's overall trade. The trade figures have seen a steady rise from $484 million in 2014-15 to $1.42 billion in 2021-22. Under the ambit of the Agreement on Trade, Transit and Commerce, 1972, India allows Bhutan to carry our free trade and commerce through its territory, and vice versa. By being its largest source of FDI (~ 51% of the total FDIs to Bhutan), India supports its economic growth and sustainable development. Hydropower is the backbone of Bhutan's economy, and the role of India's aid in the development of this sector is notable. For instance, the very first hydropower project in Bhutan in 1988 - the Chukha hydropower plant - was funded totally by India, of which 60% of the funding was in the form of aid. Similarly, huge aid was given by India for other hydropower projects like Kuricchu and tala projects. The current hydropower projects such as Mangdechhu and Punatsangchhu I & II also have considerable aid components from India. The allocation of India's foreign aid reflects India's emphasis on its Neighbourhood First policy as well as being a responsible leading power and a voice for the Global South. Through its diversified basket of fund allocation, India has tried to induce developmental agenda across the developing and least developed countries in an equitable fashion. This sprouts from India's belief in the noble notion of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - the whole world being one family. (ANI)
"Welcomed Foreign Minister @JanLipavsky of Czech Republic today evening in New Delhi. Our long-standing bilateral ties are expanding with regular contacts. Discussed opportunities in business, defence; space; education; S&T and innovation domains," Jaishankar tweeted on Tuesday.

The two also noted the advancing India-EU collaboration and convergence on the reliability of supply chains and digital trust and transparency.

"Noted the advancing India-EU collaboration & convergence on reliability of supply chains and digital trust & transparency. Agreed to continue our strong cooperation in multilateral forums. Exchanged views on developments in Europe and the Indo-Pacific, as well as global issues," the EAM further tweeted.

Jan Lipavsky on Sunday arrived in India for a three-day official visit which is supposed to provide further momentum to India- Czech Republic bilateral relations.

"Welcoming the Czech Foreign Minister @JanLipavsky as he arrives in India on a 3-day official visit. This visit will provide further momentum to India's bilateral relations with the Czech Republic," MEA official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted on Sunday.

Jan Lipavsky is visiting India from February 26 to March 1.

A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said that Lipavsky will during his India visit, attend the inaugural session of the India-EU Business and Sustainability Conclave on February 28.

During his visit to India, Jan Lipavsky will be accompanied by Czech Republic's Members of the Parliament, the Deputy Minister for Science, Research and Innovation and a high-level official and business delegation, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a recent release. Lipavsky will also hold a meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral, regional and international issues. (ANI)
China on Monday slammed the United States for sanctioning Chinese companies for alleged involvement with Russia, saying the illegal, unilateral sanctions, if not revoked, would be met with countermeasures from China. Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, told a press briefing that the US actions lack both the basis in international law and UN Security Council mandate, Xinhua news agency reported. "They are typical unilateral sanctions and illegal 'long-arm jurisdiction' and detrimental to Chinese interests. We deplore and reject this move and have made serious demarches to the US side," Mao said. She also said that on the Ukraine issue, China's position has been objective and fair. "We have actively promoted peace talks and sought a political solution. The US, however, has been fanning the flame and fueling the fight with more weaponry," she said. To date, the US has provided Ukraine with over $32 billion worth of military aid, including large quantities of advanced armament. Just days ago, it announced yet another tranche of military aid for Ukraine worth $2 billion, according to the spokesperson. Mao said the United States has been pouring weapons into one side of the conflict, thus prolonging the fight and making peace elusive, while spreading disinformation that China would supply weapons to Russia and sanctioning Chinese companies under that pretext. "This is out-and-out hegemonism and double standard, and absolute hypocrisy," Mao said. "On the one-year mark of the full escalation of the Ukraine crisis, China issued its position paper on the political settlement of the crisis, whereas the US imposed sanctions on Chinese and other foreign companies. Who is promoting peace and deescalation, and who is fueling the tension and making the world more unstable? The answer is fairly obvious," the spokesperson said. She called on the United States to reflect on its behavior, bear in mind what is good for the world, and do something that will actually help deescalate the situation and get peace talks going. "The US also needs to stop spreading disinformation and withdraw the sanctions on Chinese companies," she said. "The Chinese side will continue to do what is necessary to firmly safeguard the lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies. We will take resolute countermeasures in response to the US sanctions," Mao added. --IANS int/arm ( 393 Words) 2023-02-27-20:22:02 (IANS)
India is all set to open its doors to foreign universities. This comes as great news for students in Bhutan who seek to get world-class education without bearing the huge cost of going and studying abroad, The Bhutan Live reported. India's University Grants Commission in January took an important step to further liberalise the entry of foreign educational institutions (FEIs) into India, when the draft UGC (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023, was put up for comments, according to The Bhutan Live. FEIs will for the first time in the history of India education, be allowed to set up campuses in India. These institutes will conduct undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, post-doctoral and other programmes and award degrees, diplomas and certificates in all disciplines, on a standalone basis, with the prior approval of the UGC. The move will benefit students from Bhutan and other South Asian countries. Although, there are good institutes in the country itself, more often than not, students leave for India and the west every year for higher education. Most of them are keen on getting undergraduate and graduate degrees in STEM. In fact, many Indian institutes offer scholarships to bright students. According to The Bhutan Live, the foreign university entering India should have secured a position within the top 500 of overall/subject-wise global rankings. It must also be an institution -of-repute in its home country. India's higher education sector is expected to witness a major boost if the draft regulations are brought into force. Students will have an access to world-class education from the world's top universities in their home country. Faculties will get better opportunities. The universities will have international-level competition. It will be a major boost to the economy as well due to the increased foreign investment in the education sector which will lead to further economic growth, according to The Bhutan Live. A survey conducted by the National Institute of Education Planning and Administration (NIEPA) in 2021, among the top 200 universities, found that eight foreign universities have said that they would 'definitely consider' India to set up a branch. The recently unveiled Union Budget of India for Financial Year 2023-24 was closely watched by foreign policy mandarins as well as India's aid recipient countries. Although the aid package for the upcoming fiscal year has been slashed from Rs. 6,292.30 Crore in 2022-23 to Rs. 5,408.37 Crore for 2023-24, yet the intent to boost a cooperative partnership with these countries remains with a focus on targeted interventions, The Bhutan Live reported. While the budget has been slashed for most of the countries, the aid package for Bhutan, Maldives and Latin America saw an uptick. Where for Bhutan the aid figure rose from Rs. 2,266 Crore to Rs. 2,400 Crore, for the Maldives it rose from Rs. 360 Crore to Rs. 400 Crore and for Latin American countries Rs. 40 Crore to Rs. 50 Crore. (ANI)
During their meeting, Shoukry conveyed a message from Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, who reaffirmed his country's support for Syria to face the repercussions of the earthquakes, the media office of the Syrian Presidency reported.

Shoukry also conveyed the Egyptian President's willingness to boost and develop relations between the two countries, according to the report, Xinhua news agency reported.

Shoukry said his country considered the Syrian-Egyptian relationship an essential pillar in protecting the Arab countries, stressing that Egypt will always stand ready to help Syria and its people.

For his part, Assad noted that Syria is willing to enhance relations with Arab countries, especially Egypt.

On February 6, strong earthquakes jolted large swathes of areas along the Turkish-Syrian border and killed tens of thousands of people in the two countries.

Since the deadly quakes, Assad's government, which was suspended from the Arab League in 2011, has received calls and aid from a number of Arab leaders, including al-Sisi.

On Sunday, Assad received in Damascus a delegation of Arab parliamentary leaders, including Egypt's Parliament Speaker Hanafy Ali El-Gebali.

--IANS int/arm

( 229 Words)

2023-02-27-21:38:04 (IANS)
After a cabinet meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the chair, spokesman Mahbub Hossain told reporters that the Cabinet approved that Bangladeshis can avail dual citizenship of 44 newly-added countries while keeping their Bangladeshi citizenship, Xinhua news agency reported.

Previously, Bangladeshis could hold dual citizenship of 57 countries besides their country of birth.

--IANS int/arm

( 91 Words)

2023-02-27-21:42:03 (IANS)
Phoenix police.

A man is dead and another is injured after a house party shooting occurred early Sunday morning near 75th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road.

Phoenix police said they responded to a call involving a shooting just after 3 a.m. When they arrived, they discovered two men with gunshot wounds.

Both men were taken to the hospital, and one of the men died from his injuries. The other man does not appear to have injuries that are life-threatening, according to police.

Police have not said if a suspect is in custody, nor provided details on what led up to the shooting.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 1 dead, 1 injured in Phoenix house party shooting
A 51-year-old woman was shot and killed in Covington on Sunday.

According to Lt. Justin Bradbury, a person was found suffering from at least one gunshot wound inside a home at the intersection of 13th and Wheeler Street at approximately 9 p.m.

The victim was identified by the Hamilton County Coroner's Office as Laverne Geneva Wilson.

Emergency services transported Wilson to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries, Kenton County Commonwealths Attorney Rob Sanders said.

Investigators have not made an arrest yet, Bradbury said on Monday morning.

Enquirer media partner Fox19 provided this report

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Woman shot, killed in Covington
georgeclerk / Getty Images/iStockphoto

The federal government requires businesses to reimburse employees for mileage only if failure to do so lowers their net pay below minimum wage. A tiny handful of states have laws that obligate companies to pay their workers back for mileage incurred on behalf of their employers -- but you could count them on one hand with two fingers to spare.

Discover: Medical Expenses You Can Deduct From Your Taxes

Also See: 3 Signs You're Serious About Raising Your Credit Score

The only relief for the rest of America is the federal mileage deduction, which the IRS allows taxpayers to omit from their taxable income to compensate for the cost of operating a vehicle while earning a living.

In 2022, the rate was 58.5 cents per mile in the first half of the year and 62.5 cents in the second half -- but $0.60 per mile goes a lot farther in some states than others.

To find out which states are the best places for people looking to get the most out of mileage deductions, GOBankingRates used data from Insurance.com to identify where drivers pay the lowest average vehicle ownership cost, including the cost of gas, insurance, repairs and sales tax.

georgeclerk / Getty Images/iStockphoto

California

California is one of only three states that require companies to reimburse their employees for mileage, and it does so at the standard IRS deduction rate. Employees in the state receive mileage reimbursement either as a lump sum, through an actual expenses reimbursement, a cents-per-business-mile rate or some combination of all three. The refund is not taxed as income unless it exceeds the IRS rate.

Take Our Poll: What Do You Plan To Use Your Tax Refund For?

Pgiam / Getty Images

Illinois

The second of three states to require mileage reimbursement by law, Illinois gives its employees at least 30 days to provide proof of mileage under the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act.

The law mirrors Labor Code 2802 in California, which requires reimbursement at the IRS rate or, if higher, the actual expense rate to cover mileage and fuel.

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DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is the third and final state in the trio that obligates their businesses to reimburse employee mileage, which it does as part of the Massachusetts Wage Act. The state's businesses must pay the IRS's per-mile rate for all workers who use their vehicles as part of their jobs beyond the time they spend commuting.

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New Hampshire

Excluding the three states that require businesses to reimburse their employees for mileage incurred on the job, New Hampshire is the best state to drive while you work. The Granite State has the lowest average vehicle ownership costs in America, according to Insurance.com: $19,749 over five years, compared to the national average of $25,281 and more than $36,000 in the most expensive state, Wyoming.

The 62.5-cent deduction goes farthest in New Hampshire mostly because residents pay no sales tax when they buy their cars there -- and insurance in the state costs 22% less than average.

JamesBrey / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, the average driver pays $21,074 to own a car over five years, the No. 2 lowest in the country. Residents there pay less for insurance than even drivers from New Hampshire. One of just two states with triple-digit annual premiums, the $951 that Wisconsinites spend to insure their vehicles is $506 less than the national average of $1,457 -- only Mainers pay less.

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Ohio

Massachusetts boasts the No. 3 lowest five-year vehicle ownership cost, but its mileage reimbursement law bumps it higher up on the list and puts Ohio in line just after Wisconsin. The five-year cost of ownership expense there is just $21,384. Gas is comparatively cheap in the Buckeye State, and Ohioans pay $282 less per year to insure their cars than the average American. Presuming the 2022 IRS average of $0.60 per mile, that's a 470-mile head start.

Vermont-freeway-sign-iStock-1252188979

Vermont

Despite a lower sales tax rate, Vermont residents pay a little more than Ohioans to own their cars -- $21,737 over five years, to be exact. The $1,100 annual insurance bill is $357 cheaper than average, which helps drivers stretch their mileage deductions farther than those in most other states.

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Maine

Maine is the list's third representative from New England and, just like New Hampshire and Vermont, it's mostly about insurance. The average annual premium in Maine is just $845, which is $612 lower than the national average. The state joins only Wisconsin in coming in under $1,000 a year.

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Oregon

Oregon's typical annual insurance premium is lower than the national average, but only by $171. The real reason that Oregon makes the top 10 is because of its sales tax rate, which is exactly zero. That's $2,505 saved on a $25,000 car that would have been paid in Louisiana, where the sales tax rate is 10.02%.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Best States for Mileage Deductions
Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump (Phillip Caruso/Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock)

As society evolves, moments in films that were once beloved can start to sour in historys proverbial rear-view mirror. When Sandy (Olivia Newton John) revamps her entire look and personality to please her boyfriend Danny (John Travolta) at the end of Grease (1978), for example. Or when the cartoon crows in Disneys animated classic Dumbo are literally called The Jim Crows.

Even plenty of Academy Award-winning movies have not aged particularly well. As the 94th Academy Awards approach this Sunday (27 March), here are 10 Oscar-winning films that are problematic in 2021.

Green Book (2018)

When Green Book, which won Best Picture at the 91st Academy Awards, arrived in cinemas a few years back, it quickly became a divisive topic of conversation. The picture, starring Mahershala Ali and Viggo Mortensen, enjoyed early success with audiences and sailed through awards season, but critics lambasted it as being shortsighted in its depiction of race relations.

About an unlikely friendship between a Black world-class pianist (Ali) touring the Deep South in 1962 and his bodyguard, Italian-American bouncer Tony Lip (Mortensen), Green Book was criticised for historical inaccuracies and depicting Alis character, Dr Don Shirley, as being a Magical Negro archetype whose main purpose in the film is to change a white man (Mortensen) for the better. American buddy comedies have generally mandated equal screen time to both characters  except when one of those characters is black, and exists almost entirely to help transform his white companion on a quest toward salvation, wrote IndieWire.

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

Jared Leto as Rayon in Dallas Buyers Club (Voltage Pictures/Kobal/Shutterstock)

This biographical drama chronicles the story of Ron Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey), an Aids patient diagnosed in the mid 1980s who distributes unapproved pharmaceutical drugs to HIV/Aids patients. One of those patients is trans woman Rayon, played by Jared Leto, who won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his portrayal. Now, critics wondered why a cisgendered actor (Leto) was offered the role instead of a trans actor. Additionally, the character, some felt, was written as less of a three-dimensional being than a vehicle for Rons character to get over his homophobia and transphobia. Rayon isnt a person, shes a function, wrote Paris Lees in The Independent at the time.

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Annie Hall (1977)

Woody Allen and Diane Keaton in Annie Hall (Rollins-Joffe/United Artists/Kobal/Shutterstock)

As a film, Annie Hall has historically been lauded as one of the most beloved romantic comedies of the 20th century, winning four Oscars at the 50th Academy Awards and nominated for five in total. But its been a bad few years for its prolific director Woody Allen, due to the recently reexamined allegations of sexual assault from his adopted daughter Dylan Farrow (Allen has continuously denied all allegations), and made worse by HBOs Allen v Farrow docuseries, which offers a closer look into the decades-old allegations and the subsequent media firestorm.

The allegations have trickled down into a number of Allen films, Oscar-winning or not: in particular, the Oscar-nominated Manhattan (1979) depicts the director, then in his 40s, in a relationship with a 17-year-old high school student (Mariel Hemingway). In 1995s Mighty Aphrodite, for which supporting actor Mira Sorvino won the Oscar, 60-year-old Allen briefly romances Sorvinos much younger (though legal) and dim-witted character. Its a pattern that repeats itself over and over  and even in Annie Hall  an older but nebbishy and unassuming guy happens to fall into bed with a beautiful, young, usually rather innocent, woman. Such a repetition starts to feel uncomfortable  particularly given the allegations brought by Dylan Farrow.

Additionally, a number of top-tier Hollywood actors and directors have denounced Allen in recent years, with Kate Winslet, Colin Firth, Timothee Chalamet, Rachel Brosnahan, Rebecca Hall, and Greta Gerwig among the names to have publicly denounced him. Not to mention the fact that Annie Hall has a throwaway line about child molesters, one of many that show up in the directors work over the years. Taken together, its difficult to regard Annie Hall in quite the same way.

American Beauty (1999)

Kevin Spacey and Mena Suvari in American Beauty (Lorey Sebastian/Dreamworks/Kobal/Shutterstock)

To begin with, the presence of disgraced actor Kevin Spacey (who won an Oscar for his role as midlife crisis-having protagonist Lester Burnham) definitely puts a damper on re-watching American Beauty, which won five Oscars in 2000, including Best Picture, Best Director (Sam Mendes), Best Screenplay (Alan Ball), and Best Actor (Spacey).

In October 2017, actor Anthony Rapp accused Spacey of making a sexual advance toward him in 1986, when Rapp was only 14. Following Rapps allegations, more men came forward with allegations that the House of Cards actor had made unwanted advances and had sexually harassed them as well. Spacey denied the claims. Rapps lawsuit against Spacey was dismissed last year, with a New York jury concluding that Spacey did not molest Rapp.

The film has also aged badly in its depiction of Lesters inappropriate crush on his daughters (Thora Birch) teenage best friend, played by Mena Suvari. The film, of course, doesnt act like the crush is right or OK. But its many scenes where Lester fantasises about Suvari, who is nude and covered in rose petals, caused critics at the time to liken her to a Lolita figure. Roger Ebert wrote at the time: Is it wrong for a man in his 40s to lust after a teenage girl? Any honest man understands what a complicated question this is. Wrong morally, certainly, and legally. But as every woman knows, men are born with wiring that goes directly from their eyes to their genitals, bypassing the higher centers of thought. They can disapprove of their thoughts, but they cannot stop themselves from having them.

Suffice it to say, Eberts sorry, but men cant help it screed hasnt aged well either.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Jodie Foster in The Silence of the Lambs (Orion/Kobal/Shutterstock)

Another film accused of misrepresenting the transgender and/or genderqueer experience, horror standout The Silence of the Lambs, which won an Oscar for Best Picture, is criticised these days for its portrayal of villain Buffalo Bill (played by Ted Levine). Buffalo Bill is a serial killer who wears his female victims skins, keeps their clothes, and dresses up like them.

Though lead protagonist Clarice (Jody Foster) and her cannibal consultant Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) trade dialogue around how a) Bill isnt transgender, and b) theres no link between transgender identity and violence (even movie director Jonathan Demme has said that Bill is not meant to be trans), the intention is often lost on audiences. As Vox TV writer Emily VanDerWerff tweeted, Knowing the intent of a work doesnt mean s***, because the intent is less important than the impact. And when people saw SotL, they didnt hear Buffalo Bill isnt trans. They saw a weirdo serial killer dancing around in womens clothes.

Driving Miss Daisy (1989)

Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman in Driving Miss Daisy (Warner Bros/The Zanuck Company/Kobal/Shutterstock)

When Driving Miss Motherf***ng Daisy won Best Picture, that hurt, director Spike Lee told New York Magazine in 2008. [But] no ones talking about Driving Miss Daisy now.

The 1989 movie starring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, based on Alfred Uhrys Pulitzer Prize-winning play, is often (and rightly) criticised for its overly simplistic portrait of US race relations in the mid-20th century. The story of a retired schoolteacher (Tandy) living in Atlanta, who employs a Black chauffeur (Freeman), Driving Miss Daisy won Best Picture in 1989. Despite its Academy acclaim, numerous people, even Freeman, have attacked the movie as being two-dimensional, its Black characters stereotypes. In 2000, Freeman, who earned an Oscar nod for the role, referred to the movie as a mistake that led to him being typecast as noble, wise, dignified.

The Help (2011)

Octavia Spencer, Viola Davis, and Emma Stone in The Help (Dreamworks Pictures/Kobal/Shutterstock)

Another movie with noble intentions but an overly simplistic view on race relations, 2011 period drama The Help, based on the novel of the same name, is deservedly criticised for leaning on white characters to tell Black stories. Emma Stone stars as Eugenia, an aspiring journalist in Jackson, Mississippi, who wants to write a book from the point of view of the communitys Black maids, exposing the racism they regularly deal with as they work for white families.

In the years since its release, Viola Davis, who plays maid Aibileen Clark, has expressed regret over starring in The Help, saying she feels like she betrayed myself and my people and that the film was created in the filter and the cesspool of systemic racism.

Additionally, actor Bryce Dallas Howard, who also stars, has acknowledged that The Help is told through the perspective of a white character and was created by predominantly white storytellers.

Tom Hanks in Forrest Gump (Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock)

Forrest Gump (1994)

Critics raise their eyebrows about a lot of things in Robert Zemeckis Oscar-winning comedy-drama, about a learning-disabled young man (Tom Hanks) who just happens to witness some of the most defining historical moments of the 20th century. The list typically includes Forrest Gumps depiction of people with learning disabilities, protestors, and Vietnam War veterans.

The most offending detail, though, is the films treatment of Forrests best friend Jenny (Robin Wright), who is abused as a child by her father, and goes on to live a life of pure victimhood, performing at nude bars, dating abusive jerks, and eventually contracting Aids and dying young. As British GQ writer Matt Glasby put it, Jenny is a classic mother-madonna-whore figure who ultimately brings Forrest redemption by shagging him, siring him a son who's clever (and Haley Joel Osment) and then, conveniently for fans of films that end, dying.

Crash (2004)

Thandiwe Newton and Matt Dillon in Crash (Lorey Sebastian/Lions Gate/Kobal/Shutterstock)

Paul Haggis' crime drama cleaned up at the 78th Academy Awards, garnering six nominations, and winning three for Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. Crash has, however, been critiqued as being overly simplistic about how it portrays race relations and racial stereotypes.

In 2009, when listing the Worst Movies of the Decade, Atlantic writer Ta-Nehisi Coates said, I don't think there's a single human being in Crash. Instead you have arguments and propaganda violently bumping into each other, impressed with their own quirkiness. ('Hey look, I'm a black carjacker who resents being stereotyped.') But more than a bad film, Crash, which won an Oscar (!), is the apotheosis of a kind of unthinking, incurious, nihilistic, multiculturalism.

Gone With the Wind (1939)

Vivien Leigh and Hattie McDaniel in Gone With the Wind (Selznick/Mgm/Kobal/Shutterstock)

Few films have been reassessed the way Gone With the Wind has. Winning 10 Academy Awards out of 13 nominations, with Hattie McDaniel becoming the first Black woman to win an Oscar, the historical epic might have been seen as being progressive for its time, but it has decidedly not aged well. (Many will recall when HBO Max launched last year, it briefly pulled the film off the platform, citing the need for an explanation and a denouncement of the movies depictions of race relations. And, for what its worth, the film was heavily protested as being racist when it first came out in the 1930s.) Indeed, even filmmaker John Ridley wrote an op-ed for the Los Angeles Times lobbying for the film to be removed from HBO Max entirely. It is a film that glorifies the antebellum south, wrote Ridley, who won an Oscar for the 12 Years a Slave screenplay. It is a film that, when it is not ignoring the horrors of slavery, pauses only to perpetuate some of the most painful stereotypes of people of color.

ScreenRants Kayleigh Donaldson also weighed in on the films historical misses, writing, The KKK are shown as heroic... Mammy, played by Hattie McDaniel, was seen as the exemplification of the Mammy archetype, a stereotype of a homely Black woman who dotes on her white boss/owner. Slavery as a whole is skimmed over by the movie, with the Civil War seen as a battle over traditional values rather than the right to literally own Black people, and the slaves shown on-screen mostly fit into the happy slave stereotype of Black men and women who were delighted by their lot in life, seen as too irresponsible to work and live free of ownership.

This article was originally published in 2019
Hyundai forms the bulk of the latest car recalls affecting 107,436 vehicles nationwide. The Korean car maker said some of its latest Genesis model vehicles have faulty seat belt parts that explode during a crash.

Luxury brands Mercedes-Benz and BMW account for the rest of the recalled vehicles in this weeks round up.

Check USA TODAYs automotive recall database or search the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations database for new recalls. The NHTSA allows you to search for recalls based on your vehicle identification number. You can also contact your vehicle's manufacturer for further information.

What else is under recall? Check out USA TODAY's searchable recall database; cars, consumer goods, food and more

Massive Nissan Rogue recall: Issue with key could turn off engine while driving

Hyundai recalls Genesis models over seat belt explosion risk

Hyundai is recalling 65,517 of its Genesis SUVs and sedans over an issue that may cause part of the seat belt pretensioner to explode, according to NHTSA documents.

Over-pressurization of the seat belt pretensioner can cause them to explode during certain crashes. The explosion can send metal fragments flying, posing a safety threat to vehicle occupants, the NHTSA report said.

Affected vehicles:

9,720 2021-2023 Genesis G80

940 2023-2023 Genesis GV60

21,917 2022-2023 Genesis GV70

32,940 2020-2023 Genesis GV80

Hyundai told the NHTSA it expected to notify owners of the recall on April 17. Owners will be offered a free repair at an authorized Hyundai dealer.

Mercedes Benz issues recall over potential ABS issue

Mercedes Benz is recalling 26,116 of its SUVs because the anti-brake locking system and electronic stability program may malfunction and increase the risk of crash, according to an NHTSA report.

According to the report, the front axle wiring harness can contact an auxiliary oil cooler and wear to the point that the ABS and ESP may be affected.

Affected vehicles:

11,018 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz G550

15,098 2019-2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG G63

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Owners can expect to be notified of the recall by April 18. Authorized Mercedes Benz dealers will offer free axle wiring harness replacement or a protective sleeve for the harness, according to the NHTSA report.

BMW SUVs recalled over improperly manufactured air bags

Approximately 15,803 BMW SUVs were put under recall because they were potentially manufactured with defective driver air bags, according to an NHTSA report. The air bags were not manufactured to the vehicles specifications, creating a safety risk if the airbags fail to deploy on their intended trajectory during a crash, the report said.

The recall involves some of the latest German car makers hybrid and gas powered SUVs.

Recalled vehicles:

9,464 2022-2023 BMW iX xDrive40, iX xDrive50, iX M60

6,339 2022-2023 BMW X1 xDrive28i

BMW said in the NHTSA report it planned to notify owners of the recall on April 7, offering free air bag replacements.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Check car recalls: Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz and BMW issue new recalls
A Black-owned business success in one city has transformed to make history in another.







The post After 11 Years In Prison, Derrick Faulcon Opened The First Black-Owned Business In Brooklyn Heights appeared first on AfroTech.

Cloudy Donut Co., a vegan donut shop founded by Derrick Faulcon, became a hit in Baltimore, MD, once launched in 2020.

In 2022, the company opened a location in New York Citys Brooklyn Heights  making it the first Black-owned business in the neighborhood  VegNews has reported.

Prior to opening his historic shop, Faulcon was formerly incarcerated and wanted to tap into entrepreneurship.







 Etude No.2  Philip Glass & Eleonor Sandresky @newyorknico After 11 years of being incarcerated, Derrick Faulcon decided to become the culinary Nat Turner. In edition to helping over 200 inmates get their GEDs, Faulcon researched everything about the food industry while in prison with the hopes that one day he could build his own empire. He refused to believe that life would have limitations just because he was a felon. After almost a decade of working in the food industry post-incarceration, Faulcon opened @cloudydonutco in 2020 which is the first black owned food/beverage business in Brooklyn Heights. Derricks decision to open in the neighborhood was to begin a reverse gentrification process. The idea is to bring black businesses into affluent white neighborhoods for visibility to people who arent used to seeing black business owners. Faulcons goal is to build generational wealth. He and his business partner, Zewiditu Jewel created @the.browncollective which creates a space for black and brown culinary creatives. Derrick also continues to mentor and employ formerly incarcerated individuals so that they arent encouraged to go back to a life of crime. In addition to a great story and message, the donuts are really fucking good. Cloudy Donuts has over 44 flavor donuts all of which are entirely vegan and animal-free. They are open only on the weekends so make sure to schedule accordingly before making the trip to 14 Colombia place. #UnsungHeroesNYC

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I spent 11 years total of my life in prison, Faulcon shared in a TikTok video. Two years in solitary confinement. I came home and started my own business.

My goal was, how can I create a luxury product in an affluent white space and now bridge the gap between that crowd and our crowd? Its a generational wealth play, he continued. Its like now, how can we put ourselves in a position where instead of keep complaining to these white folks lets just start owning some sh-t. Lets start going to their communities. Getting money from them. Giving them quality products. Bridging the gap. Creating those relationships. Building and architecting a life for ourselves and then giving back to the people behind it.

What Faulcon describes is what he and Zewiditu Ruffin, Cloudy Donut Co.s Partnerships Director and Brooklyn Heights shop operator, believe to be reverse gentrification.

Reverse gentrification is this ideology that we bring out Black-owned businesses into predominantly white, affluent neighborhoods in order to bring visibility, diversity, and awareness, Ruffin explained to VegNews. Were bringing quality products, connecting with the local community, and hiring a [diverse group] of people who dont have to have a culinary background.

Faulcon and Ruffin aim to support Black entrepreneurs in their own success. The duo has created a pop-up series where guest chefs of color will create specialty vegan desserts that will be featured on the Cloudy Donut Co. menu, the outlet noted.

[Faulcon] and I have a goal to uplift and provide education to Black and people of color that are interested in the culinary space, Ruffin said. We want to provide specific systems and education to people and create a conversation that isnt being had.
A 12-year-old girl was drugged and assaulted in a Florida hotel room after she asked a man for a cigarette, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office.

It happened Saturday, Feb. 25, at a hotel along US. 98 in Destin, the sheriffs office said in a news release. Destin is about 45 miles east of Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle.

Jack Colton, 58, of Fort Walton Beach was arrested as a suspect in the assault, officials said in a Feb. 26 news release.

The 12-year-old had reported being drugged and assaulted multiple times ... in the prior 24 hours, the sheriffs office said.

Deputies say the girl reportedly asked Colton for a cigarette and he then gave the girl what she believed to be crystal methamphetamine before the numerous sexual acts.

The victim was taken to a hospital and her condition was not released.

Investigators did not release details of where the victim encountered the suspect.

Colton told OCSO Investigators he believed the victim was 23 years old, the sheriffs office said.

Investigators say potential evidence was found in a motel room and a truck was seized.

The suspect was charged with sexual assault with a victim between the ages of twelve and eighteen, officials said. No bond has been set, jail records show.

Pastor accused of engaging in sex act on Starbucks patio in Florida, deputies say

Surprised household finds intruder in home at 6 am  and fights back, Florida cops say

Woman told armed man she preferred a bullet to enduring sex assault, Florida cops say
A Fort Worth teen remained in custody on Monday just days after he was indicted on a charge of murder in the 2021 shooting death of a man in a Fort Worth neighborhood.

A Tarrant County grand jury indicted 17-year-old Barron Keithen Campbell last week on the charge in the death of 36-year-old Jordan Carpenter. At the time of the shooting, the suspect was 15.

Fort Worth police have not released any information on a motive for the shooting.

Campbell is being held in the Tarrant County Jail with bond set at $150,000.

His attorney had sought to get the bail lowered, but a judge denied the motion, according to Tarrant County criminal court records.

Campbell had been in the custody of Tarrant County juvenile authorities after he was taken into custody in November, but he was later transferred to an adult court.

The shooting occurred around 10:50 a.m. on Nov. 12, 2021, in the 900 block of Judd Street, in the Morningside neighborhood, police said.

Police found a gunshot victim at the scene, who was pronounced dead. He was later identified as Jordan Carpenter. He died from a gunshot wound to his back and his death was ruled a homicide, according to the Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office.

On the day after the shooting, police said they were looking for two possible suspects connected to the homicide.
While hes not as popular as Jeff Bezos or Elon Musk in the U.S., Bernard Arnault doesnt need to be  hes the richest person in the world and may have the most unique story amongst his billionaire peers.

Arnault, 73, born in France, may be most well-known today for his founding and current leadership of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's largest luxury goods company, but how he got there involved one French Franc ($0.16 USD), real estate in the French Riviera, and condominiums in Palm Beach, Florida.

Estimated to have a net worth of $201.8 billion, making him the richest person in the world ahead of Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos, Arnault graduated from the Ecole Polytechnique in Paris with a degree in engineering before beginning a career at his fathers construction firm Ferret-Savinel.

Around five years into being at his fathers firm, he convinced the company and his father to liquidate the construction division and enter the real estate market  Arnault earned $15 million in the sale.

Under the name Ferinel, the family company initially developed specialty holiday accommodations. Named a company director in 1974, and named CEO in 1977, Arnault started building timeshares on the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France.

Shortly after in the 1980s, Arnault moved to the U.S. and started developing condos in Palm Beach, while simultaneously building a U.S. branch of his familys property business amid socialist power in France.

The French Socialists switched to a more conservative economic course in 1983, prompting Arnault to return to his native France  this is where the one French Franc comes in.

Arnault heard that the French government was set to choose someone to take over the Boussac Saint-Freres empire, a bankrupt textile and retail conglomerate that owned Christian Dior.

With the help of a managing partner of the French bank Lazard Freres and Co., Arnault paid a symbolic one Franc for Boussac, which held other companies outside of the luxury fashion brand.

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Soon after acquiring the company, Arnault would buy other luxury brands like Celine and Christian Lacroix.

Later in 1987, he worked with Alain Chevalier, CEO of Moet Hennessy, and Henry Racamier, president of Louis Vuitton, to form the LVMH brand.

After a series of bold and strategic moves in 1988 and 1989, Arnault became the largest shareholder and was unanimously named the chairman of the executive management board of LVMH.

Today, LVMH owns luxury brands like Dom Perignon, Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, Tiffany & Co, and many more known brands making it worth more than $412.1 billion.

Many of the world's billionaires and millionaires got their start in real estate, and it's now easier than ever for retail investors to get in on this market. New companies have innovated ways for individual investors to get involved with real estate for as little as $100 (or more, depending on your appetite). Heres how to buy shares of rental properties to earn passive income and build long-term wealth, like Arnault.

Read next: Bezos-Backed Startup Lets You Become A Landlord With $100

Photo: Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

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This article How 16 Cents And A Shift To Real Estate Allowed The Richest Man In The World To Build An Empire Worth Over $200 Billion originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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Banner Creightons bullets couldnt stop 1923s Jacob, but the series Season 1 finale finds a weapon even more likely to put the Dutton family patriarch in the ground: Donald Whitfields pen.

Because with just a few strokes and his signature, Whitfield pulls off a backhanded move that threatens to deliver all of the Yellowstones land right into the greedy miners hands. The look on Jakes face at the end of the hour, when he realizes what hes poised to lose, is far more gutting than when his gunshot wounds were bleeding buckets onto the kitchen floor.

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Elsewhere, Teonna makes for Wyoming, and Alexandra and Spencer hit another sizeable bump in their road back to Montana. Geez, well be lucky if they make it there by the end of Season 2.

Read on for what goes down in Nothing Left to Lose, then make sure to check out Brandon Sklenars thoughts on the newest roadblock in Spencer and Alexandras path to Montana.

I BELIEVE IN RIGHT NOW | Teonnas father finds her inside Hanks shelter; Hank and the two priests who came for her lie dead outside. Shes sore but otherwise OK, so he leads her to her horse, saying theyve got to go before more people come looking for her. On the way, she sees hes dressed Hanks body for burial and written Child killer in blood on the priests bare torsos. Hanks son, Pete, introduces himself just before the trio rides off.

The detectives who are looking for Teonna have Father Renaud join them on their ride. Eventually, they find all the dead priests and surmise that Teonna and her helpers are heading for the Comanche reservation. The white men plan to take the train, so when they get there, well be waiting.

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That night, Pete and Teonna flirt by the fire, and her father sternly tells them to postpone that nonsense until later, after theyre safe. Theyve been trying to kill me since they took me, she says, making a point of taking Petes hand. I dont believe in later. I believe in right now. After her father goes to bed, Teonna kisses Pete on the cheek and snuggles into his side when he extends an arm. But it becomes a bittersweet moment when she starts to sob, and he holds her while she cries.

1923-finale-recap-season-1-episode-8

CREIGHTON GOES FREE?

| Jacob and his men ride into Bozeman and are irked when they see that the hitching post outside the courthouse has been taken down in favor of parking spaces. Theres a bit of Grumble grumble progress grumble grumble as they go inside to sit in the gallery as Banner Creighton is arraigned. He pleads not guilty. Then his lawyer approaches the bench and asks for a dismissal, citing a lack of evidence as well as the Dutton gangs hanging of Creighton and his men. Theres a slight legal complication with the warrant, as well, and so the judge releases Creighton without bail.

The cocky Scot taunts Jacob and Jack Dutton on the way out. This dont end in court. It ends in a field in front of your fking house, he says. If thats where you want to die, Im more than happy to help you out, Jake tells him. Later, when Creighton rails against the Duttons, Whitfield advocates for patience. If you think about it, generational wealth is the closest thing a man can have to immortality, he says, advising that Creighton think logically. Dutton loves his land. He loves it. And we will take it from him, the mogul says  but via the pen, not the gun.

Then Whitfield goes upstairs, where hes apparently keeping the two sex workers we met in the previous episode. The pleasure is in the power, he counsels Lindy, the woman hes tasked with using a belt to hurt her friend, Christy. And when she goes back to her task, she seems to take his words to heart. Then he has the women swap places, and Christy goes to town on Lindy with a vengeance.

LOAN RANGER | When Jake rides into town to go to the bank, Zane asks for  and gets  the night off so he can spend it with his family. While he rides off (and is observed by Clyde, the livestock agent in Whitfields employ), the bank turns down a loan for Jake, who wants the money to buy hay for his cows. Instead, the banker suggests a mortgage, an idea which Dutton soundly refuses; he doesnt want to leave his family with debt after his death. The banker points out that Jacobs kin will be left with debt either way, but Jake stomps off without money (or a plan). As he leaves, one of the tellers surreptitiously makes a phone call.

Zane eats supper with his wife, Alice, as well as his son and daughter, then spends some time in the shower with his missus before they retire to the bedroom. Unbeknownst to them, however, Clyde is creeping around outside, peeking in on the proceedings. And the next day, some law-enforcement officials show up at the door and arrest Alice, who is Asian, for miscegenation. When Zane steps in, the men beat him unconscious.

1923-finale-recap-season-1-episode-8

TWO HITS IN QUICK SUCCESSION

| Back at the Yellowstone, Elizabeth is having belly pain; when she starts bleeding, its not long before she miscarries. Its my one purpose on this planet. If I cant do it, then what the hell am I here for? she cries to Jack later. But he points out that Cara doesnt have children, but she raised him and Spencer nevertheless. I look at my aunt, and all I see is purpose, he says gently. Maybe thats your purpose, too.

The next day, Cara finds Jacob sitting outside, squeezing a towel. When she questions him about it, he sheepishly admits that he cant feel his fingers and was hoping the exercise would help. Youre lucky I love you so much. If I didnt, Id ride out into those mountains with a bottle of whiskey, and Id sit under a tree, and I would not come down, he says. Thats how much I hate getting old, watching my body betray me.

Theyre interrupted by the arrival of Whitfield and two men, whose visit soon turns into an armed standoff between the Dutton and Whitflield camps. Cara marches into the middle of it and yells at the miner to have some decency; he laughs in an incredibly punchable way and instructs his men to stand down. Jacob grudgingly does the same. Then Whitfield gets down to why he came: He and the Duttons hold the most land in Montana, but he knows the family is behind on the first of its property-tax payments for the year. I took the liberty of paying it for you. Hefty penny you owed, he says smarmily, handing Jacob the bill and informing him that if the Duttons dont repay him by the end of the year, the deed reverts to me. When Cara angrily questions why Whitfield would do such a thing, he says, Because I can. Im a businessman. The word decent doesnt apply to me. As Whitfield drives away, Jacob is bereft.

Cara writes to Spencer, telling him hes the familys only hope and that he must hurry home or there will be nothing left to fight for. But she crumples the paper and, looking miserable, slowly walks back to the house.

1923-finale-recap-season-1-episode-8

STORMY SEAS

| Spencer and Alexandra board the Majestic, a massive ship bound for London. And as it turns out, her former fiance, Arthur, is also going home on the same boat. The new Mrs. Dutton is rather seasick, so she heads up on deck and runs into one of her former bridesmaids, who reports that Arthur is a wreck and warns that things with Spencer wont last. Hes a hunter, Alexandra. And when the chase is done, he will find something else to hunt, she says. Alex holds up her left hand, showing her friend her wedding band. The chase is done, she replies, smiling. Her friend is scandalized, saying that everyone will turn their back on her. They wont get the chance, Alex says. Her pal struts away soon after, but Alex is galvanized.

Tonight we dine in the grand hall, she announces to Spencer. Im done hiding. So they use credit to procure a suit for him and a shiny, beaded dress for her. Arthur is incensed to see them at the meal that evening. The girl is lost, son. Dont lose your dignity with her, his father whispers. Young Arthur doesnt listen. When he and the bridesmaid accidentally collide with Spencer and Alex on the dance floor, Arthur makes a loud scene. Spencer gets real close to him and whispers, Youve got about 30 seconds of bullsting me, then Im going to mop the fking floor with you. Then Mr. and Mrs. Dutton continue their dance, deciding that Arthur wont shape the rest of their evening.

Unfortunately, no one gives Arthur that memo. So after staring daggers at the couple all night, he marches over to Spencer and slaps him with a glove, challenging him to a duel. I kill for a living. You do not want him to fight me, Spencer tells Arthurs dad. No, I do not, the older man agrees. (Ha!) It seems like thats settled but then Arthur calls Alex a whore in front of the entire dining room, and despite her plea for Spencer to ignore him, he cant. He punches him to the floor and agrees to the duel, allowing Arthur to choose the weapon. What a lovely mess youve made of my family, Arthurs dad says to Alexandra as he exits. And what an embarrassment youve become to yours.

Everyone goes up to the deck for the fight. Arthur chooses swords, an instrument with which Spencer has zero experience. But Dutton swiftly and surely hands the Brit his behind, anyway. But Arthur wont yield, and even when Spencer has bloodied him twice, he grabs a gun and comes after him again. Spencer is standing near the rail and, in a terrible combination of pushing Arthur away but also using his momentum against him, winds up pitching Alexs former fiance over the rail and into the water. And when the ships officials arrive, at first, no one assembled will speak up to back Alexs assertion that Spencer had put down his weapon and was merely protecting himself from Arthur and his pistol. Eventually Jennifer, the former bridesmaid, finds the courage to speak up. Still, Spencer is taken to the brig, and Alex is held in her quarters.

ANOTHER BUMP IN THE ROAD TO BOZEMAN | The next day, Spencer is brought before the captain and told that the charges are being dropped but hes also being ordered off the ship. Alex, however, has to stay, because Arthurs father questions the legality of her marriage. Also, shes some sort of royal? Jennifer helps Alexandra escape from her room, but its too late: Spencers already getting lowered in the dinghy that will carry him to shore. He shouts his love for her, she screams hers back. Then she waves one of Caras letters in the air and hollers that shell meet him in Bozeman.

Now its your turn. What did you think of the finale? What are your predictions for Season 2? Grade the episode via the poll below, then hit the comments with your thoughts!

Launch Gallery: <I>1923</I>'s Spencer Is a Red Flag in Khaki: Some Unsolicited Advice for Alexandra as They Start Their Adventure Together

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[This story contains major spoilers for 1923s season finale, Nothing Left to Lose.]

Julia Schlaepfers Alex has overcome an angry elephant, a vicious group of lions and a harrowing shipwreck on 1923, but her scorned ex-fiances royal family proved to be insurmountable in the end. Alex and Spencer (Brandon Sklenar) tried to take the high road while voyaging to London on the same ship as Alexs former family, but Spencer could no longer look the other way when Arthur (Rafe Soule) insulted his new wife and challenged him, a renowned war hero and hunter, to a duel.

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Spencer proceeded to manhandle Arthur with ease, but the poor sport pulled a pistol, leaving Spencer with no choice but to throw him overboard to his death. Tragedy only compounded from there as Arthurs family banished Spencer from the vessel without Alex, resulting in an emotional goodbye between the recently wedded pair.

While Alex promises to find Spencer at the Dutton family ranch in Bozeman, Montana, Schlaepfer is now pointing out a potentially worrisome story point for them to overcome in season two. (The Taylor Sheridan Yellowstone prequel has already been renewed.)

The first time we see her real fear of [Spencers] demons is in the finale, when she sees him kill not just an animal, but a person. She saw the animalistic instinct to kill come out of him, and its shocking for her. So I think we might grapple with that a bit in season two, Schlaepfer tells The Hollywood Reporter.

All season long, viewers have debated which 1923 couple is going to give birth to the future father of Kevin Costners Yellowstone character, John Dutton II (Dabney Coleman). And with Alex showing signs of either motion or morning sickness at the beginning of the finale, the odds appear to be in Alex and Spencers favor, especially as Elizabeth (Michelle Randolph) suffered a tragic miscarriage back in Montana.

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While Schlaepfer isnt sure which sickness Alex endured, she did leave room in her performance for both outcomes.

Honestly, I have not been told a single thing, but I have my theories, Schlaepfer says with a laugh. But when I was filming those scenes, there were definitely some moments where I was choosing to believe that maybe it was more than motion sickness. But there has been no confirmation from Taylor [Sheridan, creator] at all, so it could have just been those waves.

Below, in a recent spoiler conversation with THR, Schlaepfer discusses the cliffhanger ending, theories for season two and her finale storylines similarities to Titanic  which culminated in an on-set performance of Celine Dions Titanic ballad My Heart Will Go On in between setups.

Well, I was shocked when I first learned that you werent British.

Thats what I like to hear! I love when people say that to me.

Were so used to Brits playing Americans, but the inverse situation is rare.

Yeah, it doesnt happen too often. I have to hand it to Taylor [Sheridan], because all of the girls that he was considering at the end of the day for Alex were American. When I first got the audition, I thought there was absolutely no way I was going to be considered because Ive auditioned to play a Brit a lot and they never cast Americans. And then when I kept going through the audition process, I was like, Oh, this is exciting. This is amazing. So it was a really fun challenge.

Does your casting story involve testing in Jackson Hole like the rest of your castmates?

Yeah, it was totally abnormal in the very best way, because usually you fly out to L.A. or New York for testing, but we were flown out to Jackson Hole. We were in this beautiful mountain resort, and our screen test was in a boot room at the Four Seasons Hotel. (Laughs.) So thats where I went in and did my test, and it was really special. All of us girls were chatting in the waiting room together, and everyone was so lovely.

I was there for about five hours because Taylor brought us all in the first time to read and then sent us back out so they could chat and deliberate. And then he came out a second time and was like, Hey, Im an actor. I know how hard this is. Weve asked a lot of you all to come out here and I just want to thank you so much, but were going to have you all come back in one more time. Were going to put you through it again.

So we went back in a second time, and when I got in the room, Taylor was like, Alright, Im reading with you, not the casting director. Im going to be your Spencer, and all I want you to do is be you. Drop any notion of the character you ever had because you, to me, are Alex. You have all the qualities of this character, so just be yourself. You can drop the accent if you want. I dont care. Im just going to read with you. And then we read through the 25 pages of material they had given us for that screen test.

And by the end of the last scene, everyone was quiet, and I was crying. And then I looked up and the 15 other people in the room were also crying. (Laughs.) And then we all just started laughing. So it was one of the most special moments of my life, even if I didnt get it. I was like, Im going to remember this forever. So it was very unconventional and very beautiful, and Taylor, because he is an actor, took great care of us, which was really nice.

Did the test only include the actors going out for Alex? Or were there some potential Lizes sprinkled in there, too?

I think one girl was testing for both Liz and Alex, but it was just us four Alexes in the room. Everyone was so lovely, and we all talked about how in another scenario, we wouldve loved to have been friends. And Im sure if I see them around, itll be great. But it was nice to have female support in that scenario. Everyone wanted the best for each other.

Julia Schlaepfer as Alexandra when she marries Spencer (Brandon Sklenar) at sea in 1923.

Did Taylor ever have Brandon [Sklenar] read with you?

He didnt. We skipped that part. Brandon was cast about a week before me, and he offered to fly out for the screen test and chemistry read with everybody. But again, Taylor, taking care of us a little bit, was like, No, I think the girls are already going to feel enough pressure. I dont want the pressure of that as well. I think Ill have a sense of who youre going to have chemistry with. And he really did because it all worked out. As soon as Brandon and I met, the chemistry that you see on screen was just there; it just existed. And I think it shocked both of us how deep that connection ran right off the bat. So, we got really lucky.

And how was the news delivered that you and Brandon would have your own show within the show?

When Taylor called me to deliver the news that I was Alex, it was the next day after my screen test, and I was sitting in the Jackson Hole airport. I got a call from a Texas number, and I was like, Oh my God. So I picked up and I heard a voice say, Hi Julia, its Taylor Sheridan. And I was like, Hi. And he was like, I need you to keep a poker face because I know youre in public and some of the other girls who auditioned for this role might be in the airport as well, but I want you to know that you are Alexandra. And I immediately started crying. So I ducked behind one of those desks in the airport terminal where they check people in, and I cried. And then he was like, You have quite the journey ahead. And when we got off the phone, he immediately emailed me episodes five and six and said that it was a little light reading for the plane. And thats when I realized how epic our story would be.

But its been a constant process for me understanding that we have our own storyline. I got to cowboy camp, and Brandon was like, Yeah, weve got our own story. And I was like, Do we? I dont know how long Im going to stick around. Maybe Ill die. Im not sure how many episodes Ill be in. I might not be around very long. And Brandon would get so mad at me. Hed be like, Julia, you sound ridiculous. Obviously, you are the female romantic lead in our storyline. Youre sticking around. He would get so mad, but its just been so surreal.

At the end of Spencer and Alexs first conversation in the bar, you can see the sparks fly between them. Do you consider them a love-at-first-sight situation?

Yeah, I do. We spoke to Taylor about that when we rehearsed with him a bit in Texas before we started. He actually said to me that the moment she falls in love with him is their first meeting, when he finally looks at her at the end of that scene and says, Dying is the most alive youll ever feel. Thats the moment for her where shes like, Oh my God, this guy isnt just a hunky hunter. Theres a lot of depth there. And it goes right in line with everything shes ever wanted: an adventure and to see the world and to meet somebody outside of her own stiff royal world who thinks that way, and has those deep internal feelings that are so foreign to her. So it was an immediate wake-up call, and thats when she falls in love. And when she leans in and just challenges him back, I think that thats it for him as well. Hes probably used to people being scared of how dark he can get. But yeah, I think its love at first sight, or first conversation. (Laughs.)

Well, I must say that I just love that a Schlaepfer and a Sklenar have been paired together all season. Its another sign that Spencer and Alex are meant to be together.

(Laughs.) I know. We actually talk about that all the time. Were like, Our names are similar and clunky, and we love that we chose not to change them for the industry. Weve talked about that a lot, actually. Its very funny.

Spencer (Sklenar) and Alex (Schlaepfer) while lost at sea earlier in the season.

Spencer said that the elephant encounter, the lion attack and the shipwreck were the universes way of telling him to put Alex back where he found her. And that was before they were split apart by the Earl of Sussex (Rafe Soule) and his royal family. Does any part of her believe Spencers theory that the universe doesnt want them together?

I think there is some doubt, and I worked with Ben [Richardson], our director, along the way to sprinkle in moments of doubt. But whats so brilliant about Alex is how strong she is internally. Spencer delivers the strength, physically, for the two of them to survive all these things, but when he tries to leave her, when he tries to tell her his doubts, she says, Absolutely not. Im here. Im sticking this out. And its such a beautiful example of the strongest type of love. Love is hard. Love is not easy. But because shes so resilient, their love is so resilient. And now being separated is certainly the biggest test that theyve had to go through, which is hard to believe given how much they already have been through. (Laughs.) But next season, I do hope that we see her fighting tooth and nail to get back with him and to see him again.

On top of every other obstacle theyve faced, Alex still has to contend with Spencers demons at some point, be it PTSD, guilt or a combination of both. How has she not been scared off by now?

Well, I think the first time we see her real fear of those demons is in the finale, when she sees him kill not just an animal, but a person. She saw the animalistic instinct to kill come out of him, and its shocking for her. We definitely wanted to sprinkle in moments of fear and confusion. What did I just witness? This person is capable of killing humans. So I think we might grapple with that a bit in season two.

But prior to all of that, their love and their connection with one another runs so deep, and they have to wake up every day and choose each other. Its not easy. She knows what hes dealing with deep down in there, but shes so disarming for him and hes so disarming for her in a very different way. So shes willing to put in that work and sit with him and listen to his stories. For her, its worth it. Its worth it to leave her family, which is so major. Its worth it to crawl through the bush in Africa and almost get eaten by lions. Shes chosen loyalty to Spencer, and coming from her world, loyalty is everything.

So I do think well start to see her fear surrounding his demons come out a bit more as she processes what shes just witnessed. But their connection is so strong that when she feels him leave that boat, she has to go to him. And Taylor actually wrote in the stage direction that when shes running to find him, it feels like her soul is being ripped from her body, because it is. Thats what it feels like to lose someone that you love like that. He is a part of her now, and shes going to fight for it, which I really admire.

Alex and Spencer in the finale.

In the finale, it was so frustrating when she was being lectured by Arthur, Sr. (Bruce Davison) about honor because the royal family didnt act honorably in the slightest. Is their overall hypocrisy another reason why shes fleeing her former life?

I think so. She was raised in a society where it was all about duty to your family and acting honorably. And when youre raised in that environment, you grow up believing the things that youre taught. But theres always been this thing deep down inside of her that has wanted more, or maybe doesnt believe it fully. And when she meets Spencer and realizes that thats what she wants and goes for it and chooses him as her family, that is where her loyalty now lies. Her family and the people around her didnt necessarily want the best for her. They wanted her to sit down and be quiet and look pretty and say the right things, and she doesnt want to do that anymore. And I think its so lovely when you see Jennifer, whos played by the amazing Jo Ellen Pellman, help her friend to get out of this web that shes in at that moment and empathize with her, especially as a woman in that scenario.

Do you think Alex is going to be racked with guilt for not taking her own advice and just staying in the room?

Yes, I think shes definitely wishing that they locked themselves in that room. (Laughs.) But I also love what she says to Spencer: That was the girl in me; this is the woman. Theyre dealing with a woman now, and she doesnt want to hide. And when she ran away from her family and her problems, we kind of knew that she was going to have to face them again at some point. She had to face them for herself and to show them that shes become the person she was always meant to be. Of course, it didnt end in the most glorious or victorious of ways, and so I think she definitely wishes that they stayed in the room. But I am proud of her, from an outside perspective, that she did her best to stand up to them.

Brandon told me that the two of you would often quote Titanic during this stretch of the story, and the overlap is certainly there, especially in the finale. Were the Jack and Rose similarities not lost on you?

Oh, certainly not [lost]. From the beginning, we were like, This has major Titanic vibes, and you do get that from the characters a little bit. And yes, we were certainly singing a lot of Titanic, and Im sure theres a lot of BTS footage out there of us singing. We would literally perform for the crew. Wed stand on the deck of the ship, and they would all be doing their jobs, just setting up cameras and stuff like that. And while we were waiting to film, wed literally dance around together and sing My Heart Will Go On. (Laughs.) I dont know if they appreciated it very much, but that footage is out there somewhere.

Spencer and Alex on the ship in the finale.

All right, its now the moment of truth. Was Alex suffering from motion sickness or morning sickness at the beginning of the episode?

Ooh, you caught that, didnt you? (Laughs.)

I sure did! I even noticed that belly rub you did for a second.

Yeah. Honestly, I have not been told a single thing, but I have my theories. (Laughs.) So well see where she ends up when we are back for season two. But when I was filming those scenes, there were definitely some moments where I was choosing to believe that maybe it was more than motion sickness. But there has been no confirmation from Taylor at all, so it could have just been those waves. (Laughs.)

I know theres no definitive answer yet, but with Elizabeth (Michelle Randolph) tragically losing her baby in the finale, it seems like Spencer and Alex are slated to be the grandparents of Kevin Costners Yellowstone character. Do you think thats where its headed?

(Laughs.) I think it could be, but once again, we have no answers yet. We havent gotten confirmation in either direction, but personally, I would love to believe that. Of course, I would love to be a part of the Dutton line and involved in that. Its such a special honor. The whole cast would talk about this all the time. Wed go back and forth and back and forth. And as we were filming, we were trying to sprinkle in moments where you might see a little bit of Beth [Kelly Reilly] in there. You also see other similarities happening in the characters. So I would love to be the great-grandmother of all those characters [John Dutton IIIs children], but well see what happens.

Have you been briefed on season two yet?

Everythings pretty much up in the air, but we all are eager to get back because were obsessed with each other. Were crossing our fingers for some time this summer, but weve heard nothing yet. Sometimes, well text Taylor and be like, Hey, hows it going? And hell just give us some really cryptic messages back about everything. But were itching to get back to it. Theres going to be another cowboy camp for us, which is very exciting. But in the meantime, all of the girls from the show are living together. We cannot get enough of each other, so were making our own little family ranch on our own time.

***

1923 is now available on Paramount+. This interview was edited for clarity. Head here to read THRs interviews with Brandon Sklenar, and Aminah Nieves and Mo Brings Plenty on the season one finale.

Click here to read the full article.
2023 SAG Awards In Memoriam Tribute Reflects on the Loss of Olivia Newton-John, Leslie Jordan, Kirstie Alley and more

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty, Ser Baffo via Getty, Chelsea Lauren/Variety/Penske Media via Getty

The Screen Actors Guild took a moment to pay tribute to the stars who died over the past year during the 2023 SAG Awards.

The emotional video montage aired during the awards ceremony on Sunday honored late stars including Olivia Newton-John, Kirstie Alley, Leslie Jordan, Barbara Walters, Angela Lansbury, Raquel Welch, Richard Belzer, Cindy Williams, Anne Heche and more.

Opening up the sentimental moment, Don Cheadle, 58, said of the actors and actresses, "We were their friends, colleagues, and their fans. Regardless of relationship, we knew and loved the actors that we loved and lost last year."

He added, "We traveled with them on unforgettable journeys; they told us the best stories."

Cheadle praised the late movie and TV stars for coming into fans' homes with their undeniable talents.

RELATED: John Easterling Recalls One of His First Vacations with Olivia Newton-John on Late Wife's Birthday

Olivia Newton-John attends the VIP reception for upcoming "Property of Olivia Newton-John Auction Event at Juliens Auctions on October 29, 2019 in Beverly Hills, California.

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Olivia Newton-John

Newton-John died on Aug. 8, five years after she announced that she was diagnosed with breast cancer which had metastasized to the sacrum. The four-time Grammy Award winner revealed her first diagnosis of breast cancer in 1992.

On the day Newton-John's death was announced by John Easterling on her social media accounts, her daughter posted a series of photos of the duo together over the years. Just three days before, Chloe Lattanzi shared a shot of the pair posing together in a field.

"I worship this woman. My mother. My best friend. @therealonj ," she captioned the post on her Instagram page.

RELATED: Kirstie Alley Dead: Star of Cheers Dies at 71 After Short Battle with Cancer

Kirstie Alley

Cindy Ord/Getty Kirstie Alley

Alley, who made a name for herself in Hollywood when she starred as Rebecca Howe on Cheers, was privately living with cancer a short time before she died, her children revealed as they announced her death.

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In a statement to PEOPLE, True and Lillie Parker said that Alley died on Dec. 5 and shared for the first time that she had been diagnosed with cancer "only recently."

"We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered," they said in a statement.

Sharing more about the Cheers star's final moments, Alley's children said, "She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with a certainty of her never-ending joy of living and whatever adventures lie ahead."

Leslie Jordan attends the 29th Annual GLAAD Media Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel on April 12, 2018 in Beverly Hills, California.

Vivien Killilea/Getty

Jordan, 67, died in a car crash on Oct. 24 after suffering an apparent medical emergency. After PEOPLE confirmed the news, it was announced on his official Instagram later that day.

Jordan was most famous for scene-stealing roles including his portrayal of Beverley Leslie in Will & Grace, which earned him a 2006 Primetime Emmy for outstanding guest actor in a comedy series.

He appeared in movies and TV series including The Help, Murphy Brown, Ugly Betty, Boston Public and American Horror Story. He was starring on Fox's Call Me Kat at the time of his death.

RELATED: Anne Heche's Ex Coley Laffoon Shares Emotional Tribute After Her Death: She "Loved Really Hard"

Heche was taken off life support on Aug. 14, nine days after she was involved in a devastating car crash on Aug. 5.

The actress remained in a coma for nearly a week before it was revealed on Aug. 12 that she was "not expected to survive." Heche was declared legally dead in the state of California on Aug. 12, though her heart continued to beat until Aug. 14 to ensure her organs could be donated following her wishes.

anne heche

Anne Heche

Heche is survived by her 20-year-old son Homer from her marriage to Coley Laffoon and 13-year-old son Atlas, whom she shared with ex James Tupper.

Richard Belzer, the actor, comedian and author known for starring as John Munch for more than two decades on Homicide: Life on the Streets and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, died at age 78 on Feb. 19.

Former Late Show with David Letterman writer Bill Scheft confirmed the death to PEOPLE. "His last words were, 'F--- you, motherf---er,' " Scheft told PEOPLE. Belzer died at his home in Bozouls in southwest France "peacefully with family at his side," Scheft added.

The Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star's loved ones exclusively shared a statement with PEOPLE, saying they "are overwhelmed with the beautiful and heartfelt memories, admirations and love from Richard's family, friends, acquaintances and admirers."

Richard Belzer during Richard Belzer Ad Shoot for the "Little Shelter Animal Adoption Center" at Jim Saldano Studio in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Jemal Countess/WireImage)

Jemal Countess/WireImage

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"It has been truly helpful for us, his family, in traversing through this challenging time. So thank you," Belzer's family continues. "We have had a delay in making a statement in regards to his passing because, although he did have several health issues that had been difficult but not terminal, he experienced quite a sudden decline in health that caught us completely off guard, which lead to his passing."

The 2023 SAG Awards ceremony aired live from the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles on Netflix's YouTube channel.
Officials watch video of Alissa Parraz, 16, fleeing with her baby. The young mother, her baby and four others were all gunned down in Tulare County on Jan. 16. (Ron Holman / Visalia Times-Delta)

Authorities in Central California arrested 26 people as part of a law enforcement response to the massacre of six family members in Goshen in January, the Tulare County Sheriff's Department announced.

The sweeping, multi-agency takedown  dubbed "Operation Nightmare"  included searches of 97 homes in Tulare County along with the seizure of five guns, ammunition, two pounds of methamphetamine, an ounce of cocaine and an illegal firearm manufacturing operation, the Sheriff's Department said.

Authorities believe the killings were the result of years of beef and bad blood between two families associated with rival gangs in the area.

The most recent takedown, launched in the aftermath of the killings, came more than three weeks after the arrest of two men in connection with the massacre  Noah David Beard, 25, of Visalia and Angel Nanu Uriarte, 35, of Goshen  both Norteno gang members, according to the sheriff.

Beard and Uriarte are both charged with six counts of murder for the late-night bloodshed on Jan. 16, including the execution-style murder of Alissa Parraz, 16, and her 10-month-old baby as they tried to escape from the Goshen property. The other victims were Eladio Parraz Jr., 52; Marcos Parraz, 19; Jennifer Analla, 50, who was shot in her sleep, and Rosa Parraz, 72, who was shot in the head while on her knees beside her bed.

The seizures came as authorities served nine search warrants in the Goshen area on known members of the Norteno gang, according to the Sheriff's Department.

They discovered parts of untraceable ghost guns that gang members were allegedly assembling and also assault rifle parts.

At the same time authorities were executing the search warrants, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation searched 23 cells on members of the Norteno and Nuestra Familia gangs in numerous prisons throughout the state, the Sheriff's Department said.

Cellphones, weapons and "gang intelligence" were seized.

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It was not clear if the takedown had any connection to the Goshen slayings beyond the fact that those targeted were allegedly members of the same gang as the accused killers.

The Sheriff's Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Real estate has long been considered a lucrative investment option for building wealth, and some of the world's wealthiest individuals are no strangers to this fact.

In fact, three of the five richest people in the world are currently making unique plays in the real estate industry. From buying up vast swaths of land to investing in cutting-edge technology, these billionaires are setting themselves apart in a field that has been a cornerstone of wealth creation for centuries.

Warren Buffett

Legendary investor Warren Buffett is betting on a strong housing market recovery. His recent purchase of 1.25 million shares in Louisiana-Pacific Corp suggests he believes the housing market has bottomed out.

Berkshire Hathaway's latest SEC filing reveals a 7% stake in the homebuilding solutions company, worth $417.1 million, indicating Buffett sees value in the firm, which could see growth as the housing market recovers.

This latest move underscores Buffett's commitment to investing in companies that stand to benefit from long-term trends, such as the growing demand for housing in the coming years.

With his track record of successful long-term investing, his bet on the housing market could be a positive sign for the sector, the broader economy and the individual investor since new companies have made it possible to gain exposure to the real estate market with minimal capital.

If Buffetts bet is right, a $100 investment (or more, depending on your appetite) in a rental property could prove to be a smart play.

Jeff Bezos

Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos is no stranger to investing in the housing market either  he backed a company that allows investors to purchase shares of single-family rentals in up-and-coming neighborhoods for as little as $100.

The Bezos-backed company, which had other investors including Uber Technologies Inc CEO Dara Khosrowshahi and Salesforce Inc Co-CEO Marc Benioff, purchases properties with the highest appreciation potential, which are then listed online where nonaccredited investors can purchase shares with a single click to earn passive income through rent while their shares appreciate in value.

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Elon Musk

Mostly known for his electric car company Tesla, space exploration company SpaceX and his recent acquisition of Twitter, Elon Musk has his eyes set on a new income stream deriving from real estate.

Musk could be partnering with the construction firm, Lennar Corp to build a residential area for employees of his companies.

The project, dubbed "Project Awesome," will consist of 110 homes in Bastrop County, Texas, near the Boring Company and SpaceX facilities. The subdivision has already been approved for development and will address the growing need for housing in the area due to the thousands of jobs created by Musk's companies.

Read next: Bezos-Backed Startup Lets You Become A Landlord With $100

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This article 3 Of The 5 Richest People In The World Are Making New Plays In The Real Estate Market originally appeared on Benzinga.com

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 2023 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  Tensions rose Monday during the counting of Nigeria's hotly contested presidential election when representatives from the parties of the two main opposition candidates walked out in anger from the center where state-by-state results were being announced.

With 11 of Nigeria's 36 states having reported as of Monday evening, ruling party candidate Bola Tinubu was leading with 46% of the 6.7 million counted votes so far. He was followed by the main opposition party candidate, Atiku Abubakar, who had 29%, and third party candidate Peter Obi, who had 20%.

In order to win, the candidate who leads the popular vote must also win at least a quarter of the votes in two-thirds of the states and the capital, Abuja.

Tempers flared Monday in Abuja where representatives of all the parties awaited the results. The two leading opposition parties claimed there were disparities between the results announced by the election commission and what their representatives learned at the polling stations.

"We are Nigerians and must defend our rights, said Dino Melaye, a representative of the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party, led by Abubakar. Nigerias electoral law allows party representatives or agents to raise concerns about results while they are being announced by the election commission.

The country's election chief, Mahmood Yakubu, dismissed claims of irregularities and said the results were authenticated by electoral officials.

Representatives for Nigeria's ruling party accused the opposition parties of inciting violence and called on security forces to restrain them.

If they dont, a situation may well arise that none of us want, whereby people actually act on this incitement and begin to kill other people, said Femi Fani-Kayode, former minister and part of the ruling party's presidential campaign council. And if that happens, I assure you it will be very difficult to restrain those on our own side not to retaliate.

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The ruling party pointed to Obi's victory in the heavily coveted Lagos state, which is home to Nigeria's largest city, Lagos, as proof that the vote was free and fair. It was a particularly hard loss for ruling party candidate Tinubu, who was once the governor of the state.

It was not immediately known how many ballots were cast in the other 25 states or which candidates stood to gain the most votes from those results.

After the last presidential election in 2019, it took four days for a victor to be declared. A runoff election will be held if no candidate secures at least a quarter of the votes from two-thirds of Nigerias 36 states and the capital city, in addition to receiving the highest number of votes.

On Monday, the African Union observer mission said voting had been delayed in more than 80% of polling units mainly because of logistical challenges caused by Nigerias currency swap program. The redesign of the Nigerian bank note, the naira, caused cash shortages nationwide, and voters and poll workers had difficulties getting to polling stations Saturday. Voters in some states had to wait until late in the evening to cast ballots, while in other states the election continued Sunday.

Observers from the missions of the African Union and the West African regional bloc known as ECOWAS said the election was generally encouraging except for isolated cases of violence that disrupted voting in some states.

Isolated cases of violence on election day led to the deaths of nine civilians, according to the Lagos-based SBM Intelligence company, pointing to a far more peaceful election than in previous years, when there were more deaths.

Going by this trajectory, we are likely to have fewer deaths during the election period compared to 2019, said Confidence MacHarry, a security analyst with SBM Intelligence.

___

Associated Press journalists Taiwo Ajayi in Abuja, Nigeria and Sam Mednick in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso contributed.
Four people are facing criminal charges after a recent drag racing investigation ended with Boston police seizing a stash of illegal firearms, fentanyl, and nearly 40 off-highway vehicles, law enforcement officials announced Monday.

Officers investigating groups involved in illegal drag racing executed multiple search warrants in the area of 44 Lochdale Road in Roslindale on Friday afternoon, according to the Boston Police Department.

These illegal events would draw large crowds resulting in excessively loud music, public drinking, and reckless operation, the police said of the drag races.

Items seized during the search warrant reportedly included a Glock 19, a Masterpiece Arms Subgun, an Archangel AR -15, a Rockland Island Revolver Model 206, a Glock 26, a SCCY 9MM, a Umarex Pellet Gun, more than 36 grams of fentanyl, and a total of 37 dirt bikes and mopeds.

During the investigation, police say arrest warrants were obtained for Angel Javier Mejia Lara, 26, of Roxbury, Wallis Baez Pimentel, 31, of Roxbury, Ramon Antonio Villar Peguero, 20, of Roxbury, and Melfi Octavio Rosa Hiraldo, 35, of Dorchester.

Lara is charged with five counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, three counts of unlawful possession of ammunition, unlawful possession of a large capacity firearm, registering of bets, money laundering, two counts of trafficking of Class A fentanyl, five counts of distribution of Class A fentanyl, receiving stolen license plate, three counts of larceny of a motor vehicle, operating an illegal repair shop, and conspiracy.

Pimental is charged with registering of bets, use of telephone for gaming and betting purposes, and conspiracy.

Peguero is charged with trafficking of Class A fentanyl, five counts of distribution of class a fentanyl, and drag racing.

Hiraldo is charged with three counts of distribution of Class A fentanyl.

All four suspects are expected to be arraigned in Boston Municipal Court.

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
Dozens of students from England are stranded in the United States after their passports got destroyed while they were staying at a hotel in New Hampshire.

Forty-two students and four staff members from the Barr Beacon School in Walsall, West Midlands, England, recently traveled to the Kancamagus Lodge in Lincoln for a ski trip, the schools headmaster Kate Hibbs said in an email to Boston 25 News.

During the stay at the hotel, 41 of the passports were destroyed, according to Hibbs. The group has since traveled to the British Embassy in New York to apply for emergency documentation to allow them to travel home.

The embassy staff commented on how well our children have conducted themselves, Hibbs said. The parents have all been very supportive and I am very proud of my staff for managing this very challenging situation on the ground.

Seeing lots of New York  pic.twitter.com/Ah2hqb22Fu  Barr Beacon School (@barrbeaconsch) February 27, 2023

The group, who initially planned on flying home over the weekend, is now slated to depart America for England on Wednesday with completed applications for travel in hand.

While everyone has a place to stay in New York, funds to explore the city are dwindling, Hibbs added.

It wasnt immediately clear how the passports got destroyed.

Boston 25 News has reached out to the Kancamagus Lodge for comment and is waiting to hear back.

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
Its hard to imagine that anyone wants a do-over with the IRS after they finally finish their taxes, but you shouldnt live in fear of an audit even if you wouldnt look forward to one.

See: Pros and Cons of Living in a State With No Income Tax

Also: 3 Signs Youre Serious About Raising Your Credit Score

According to a new GoBankingRates study, about one in 10 people worries about being audited more than anything else on Tax Day. People are more likely to stress about audits than identity theft and nearly as likely as they are to worry about having enough money or missing the filing deadline.

Given the absolutely loathsome status of an IRS audit, no one could be blamed for dreading the thought of going through one. An audit notification is always an unwelcome piece of mail, but dont worry. Your darkest fears are mostly overblown.

Heres why.

Youll Probably Live Your Whole Life Without an Audit

The No. 1 reason you shouldnt dwell on audit anxiety is right there in the results of the GOBankingRates study, which polled more than 1,000 respondents. When asked if they had ever been audited, 82% said no.

Take Our Poll: What Do You Plan To Use Your Tax Refund For?

The IRS only audits a small number of returns, so the chances of being selected for an audit are slim, said Dana Ronald, CEO of the Tax Crisis Institute.

According to Syracuse Universitys Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, the IRS audited about 0.38% of all returns in 2022, down slightly from 0.49% the year before.

Audits Arent Indictments or Even Accusations

Theres a common misconception that audits are the IRSs version of a hot pursuit  that the agency suspects you of wrongdoing and is coming to comb through your records for evidence.

Its usually not so cops-and-robbers.

A tax audit is not always an indication of wrongdoing or criminal activity, said Olivier Wagner, best-selling author and founder of the tax firm 1040 Abroad. Many audits are conducted simply to ensure that taxpayers are in compliance with tax laws and regulations.

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The agency uses statistical formulas and computer screening models to scan for norms against similar returns. The software often identifies easily correctable inconsistencies that deal with the nuts and bolts of tax returns that are otherwise accurate.

If you are audited, Ronald said, it is usually because the IRS has identified something in your return that needs further clarification or verification.

Audits Present an Opportunity To Learn and Improve

For the optimist within you, consider that you might come out of an audit better than you started if you go into the process with a positive attitude.

Audits can actually help taxpayers identify errors and inconsistencies in their tax returns, allowing them to correct them and potentially avoid future penalties or interest, Wagner said. Additionally, audits can be an opportunity for taxpayers to learn more about tax laws and regulations and improve their future tax filings.

You Might Even Get Some Good News

The process isnt as daunting as you might think: Theres no interrogation or even human-to-human interaction in most cases. According to H&R Block, the IRS conducts 70% of its audits by mail and, in most cases, is not after money.

The majority of tax audits dont result in additional taxes, said Zach Larsen, finance expert and founder of Pineapple Money. In fact, many times taxpayers will receive a refund after an audit.

TurboTax cited the example of a family learning only through an audit that they were due a refund because they took a hit from a stock sale but didnt report a capital loss.

You Have the Rights Throughout the Process

If you receive an audit notification, youre certainly entitled to hope it will lead to a refund. Dont bank on it, but also dont panic. If the IRS finds errors that result in you owing money, thats not the end of it.

The IRS has safeguards in place to protect taxpayers rights during an audit process, Larsen said. Taxpayers have the right to representation by a qualified attorney or accountant during an audit and can also request copies of all documents used as evidence against them during the audit process. Additionally, if any penalties are assessed after an audit, taxpayers have the right to appeal these decisions before they become final.

Youre Not Going to Jail

Everyone knows that Al Capone went to Alcatraz for income tax evasion. The moral of the story isnt that IRS audits land you in federal prison. The moral of the story is dont be Al Capone.

The IRS audits only a tiny fraction of the returns it receives; and, of those, it refers an even tinier fraction to the Justice Department for criminal prosecution.

While the IRS can and does impose fines and penalties if it discovers egregious errors or intentional deceit, it does not have the authority to prosecute crimes and resolves virtually all audits outside the criminal justice system.

People should be aware that any mistakes made on their returns can likely be corrected with updated documentation and a reasonable explanation, Ronald said. If you are honest and transparent when dealing with the IRS, there is no need to be afraid.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 6 Reasons To Stop Being Afraid of Tax Audits
From bright colors to fun patterns, celebrity couples stunned on the SAG Awards red carpet. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor/Getty Images and Frazer Harrison/Staff/Getty Images

The 2023 Screen Actors Guild Awards were held in California on Sunday.

Some celebrity couples walked the red carpet together in beautiful  and sometimes daring  looks.

Emily Blunt wore a semi-sheer dress, while her husband John Krasinski chose a striped suit.

Emily Blunt arrived at the SAG Awards in a red floral dress, while John Krasinski wore a striped suit.

Emily Blunt and John Krasinski at the 2023 SAG Awards. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor/Getty Images

Blunt's skin was visible in between the strips of red fabric that made up her Oscar de la Renta dress, which was also adorned with pink and green florals that swept across the gown.

Krasinki's Dolce & Gabbana suit was covered with vertical stripes, and he paired it with a patterned tie.

Jason Bateman's suit was simple, while his wife Amanda Anka wore a sparkly gown to the awards show.

Jason Bateman and Amanda Anka at the 2023 SAG Awards. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor/Getty Images

Both Bateman and Anka wore all-black. He opted for a black suit and tie with a white shirt, while Anka arrived in a strapless, form-fitting dress covered in sparkles.

Viola Davis and Julius Tennon's outfits subtly complemented each other.

Viola Davis and Julius Tennon at the 2023 SAG Awards. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor/Getty Images

Davis' bright-yellow dress was designed by Valentino, and it had long sleeves, a full skirt, and a curved neckline. She paired the look with Swarovski jewelry.

Tennon wore a black suit with a black bow tie, but he paired it with a pale-yellow and black shirt, nodding to Davis' gown.

Adam Scott wore a simple tuxedo, while Naomi Scott wore a strapless, tea-length dress.

Adam and Naomi Scott at the 2023 SAG Awards. Frazer Harrison/Staff/Getty Images

Adam's look was black and white, while Naomi opted for a cream dress. She added a pop of color to her ensemble with yellow shoes.

Lauren Miller Rogen popped in a pink dress, while Seth Rogen wore a double-breasted jacket.

Seth and Lauren Miller Rogen at the 2023 SAG Awards. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Contributor/Getty Images

Lauren's Emilia Wickstead dress had a dropped waist and a tea-length skirt with pleats, giving it a retro feel.

Seth opted for a black Fendi suit, a bow tie, and a white shirt underneath.

Paul Dano and Zoe Kazan both wore monochromatic looks to the 2023 SAG Awards.

Paul Dano and Zoe Kazan at the 2023 SAG Awards. Amy Sussman/Staff/Getty Images

Dano arrived at the show in a white turtleneck, white jacket, and white pants from Dior, only adding color to his look with black shoes and a silver pin on his lapel.

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Kazan, on the other hand, wore a black dress designed by Julie de Libran that had voluminous sleeves and feather detailing on the skirt.

Jessica Betts embraced pattern for the red carpet, while Niecy Nash-Betts opted for a pop of color.

Jessica Betts and Niecy Nash-Betts at the 2023 SAG Awards. Frazer Harrison/Staff/Getty Images

Jessica's Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo was embroidered with a delicate polka-dot pattern, which she paired with a black bow tie.

Niecy chose a custom Vera Wang dress, which had a strapless neckline with sheer detailing and a skirt that flowed into a statement train.

Although Elaine Hendrix and Lisa Ann Walter aren't in a relationship, they had some of the best looks together on the SAG Awards red carpet.

Elaine Hendrix and Lisa Ann Walter at the 2023 SAG Awards. Amy Sussman/Staff/Getty Images

Hendrix accompanied her "Parent Trap" costar to the 2023 awards show in a tuxedo from Little Black Tux.

Walter also wore black, donning a Fouad Sarkis ball gown that had a plunging neckline, off-the-shoulder sheer sleeves, and a full skirt that featured floral detailing. Together, the long-time friends oozed Old Hollywood glamour.

Read the original article on Insider
Key Insights

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, 3i Group's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

51% of the business is held by the top 19 shareholders

Recent purchases by insiders

If you want to know who really controls 3i Group plc (LON:III), then you'll have to look at the makeup of its share registry. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 85% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company.

Because institutional owners have a huge pool of resources and liquidity, their investing decisions tend to carry a great deal of weight, especially with individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about 3i Group.

See our latest analysis for 3i Group

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About 3i Group?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

We can see that 3i Group does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see 3i Group's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story.

Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. 3i Group is not owned by hedge funds. The company's largest shareholder is BlackRock, Inc., with ownership of 9.8%. Artemis Investment Management LLP is the second largest shareholder owning 4.9% of common stock, and The Vanguard Group, Inc. holds about 4.5% of the company stock. Additionally, the company's CEO Simon Borrows directly holds 1.7% of the total shares outstanding.

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After doing some more digging, we found that the top 19 have the combined ownership of 51% in the company, suggesting that no single shareholder has significant control over the company.

While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of 3i Group

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. The company management answer to the board and the latter should represent the interests of shareholders. Notably, sometimes top-level managers are on the board themselves.

Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group.

We can see that insiders own shares in 3i Group plc. Insiders own UK271m worth of shares (at current prices). we sometimes take an interest in whether they have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 13% stake in 3i Group. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand 3i Group better, we need to consider many other factors. To that end, you should learn about the 3 warning signs we've spotted with 3i Group (including 2 which are a bit unpleasant) .

But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

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.

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A winter storm warning has been issued for parts of Massachusetts bringing up to 10 inches of snow for some areas moves into the region Monday night and continue all day Tuesday.

According to AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, nearly half a million crashes and more than 2,000 road deaths are in result of winter storms, bad weather, and messy road conditions.

Snow and sleet can cause significant safety problems by reducing visibility and making it difficult to safely maneuver or stop. And if youre headed to the airport, check with your airline before you leave home, said Mary Maguire, Vice President of Public and Government Affairs at AAA Northeast.

AAA recommends staying home and off the roads if you dont have to go out. If its absolutely necessary to go out, AAA recommends the following tips while driving:

Stay home . If you really dont have to go out, dont. Even if you can drive well in bad weather, its better to avoid taking unnecessary risks by venturing out.

Drive slowly . Always adjust your speed down to account for lower traction when driving on snow or ice.

Accelerate and decelerate slowly . Apply the gas slowly to regain traction and avoid skids. Dont try to get moving in a hurry and take time to slow down for a stoplight. Remember: it takes longer to slow down on icy roads.

Increase your following distance. Allow five to six seconds of following distance between your vehicle and any vehicle in front of you. This space allows you time to stop safely if the other driver brakes suddenly.

Know your brakes . Whether you have antilock brakes or not, keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal. Dont pump the brakes.

Dont stop if you can avoid it . Theres a big difference in the amount of inertia it takes to start moving from a full stop versus how much it takes to get moving while still rolling. If you can slow down enough to keep rolling until a traffic light changes, do it.

Dont power up hills . Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads just starts your wheels spinning. Try to get a little inertia going before you reach the hill and let that inertia carry you to the top. As you reach the crest of the hill, reduce your speed and proceed downhill slowly.

Dont stop going up a hill. Theres nothing worse than trying to get moving up a hill on an icy road. Get some inertia going on a flat roadway before you take on the hill.

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Snow totals and timing: Winter storm warning issued for parts of Massachusetts

It is important to carry an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times, especially during a storm. If you dont have an emergency kit, AAA recommends always keeping the following items in your emergency kit for winter driving:

Mobile phone and car charger

First-aid kit

Blankets

Drinking water/snacks for everyone in the car including pets

Flashlight with extra batteries

Rags, paper towels, or pre-moistened wipes

Basic toolkit including duct tape and warning devices such as flares or reflectors

Ice scraper/snow brush

Jumper cables/jump pack

Traction aid such as sand, salt, or non-clumping cat litter

Tarp, raincoat, and gloves

Shovel

For the full weather forecast and snow totals, click the link here.

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.

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A house damaged by Russian attacks in Stepnohirsk, Zaporizhzhya Oblast, February 21, 2023

There were no casualties as a result of the attack, but an infrastructure facility was damaged, city authorities said. According to the Secretary of the Zaporizhzhya City Council, Anatoliy Kurtev, two strikes hit an infrastructure facility, though another launched Russian shell missed its target and likely hit he water.

Presidential chief-of-staff Andriy Yermak added that the attack also struck an ad-ministration building on Khortytsia Island, causing a fire.

Russia launched a drone attack against Ukraine overnight on Feb. 26, utilizing 14 Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones. As a result of the attack, one person was killed and four others were injured in the Ukrainian city of Khmelnytskyi. According to Ukraines General Staff, 14 drones were launched, of which 11 were intercepted.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Editors Note: This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Russia's blockage of Ukrainian seaports triggered a global food crisis.

The global food crisis was partially resolved in July when an UN-backed grain deal was reached, forcing Russia to unblock three ports in Odesa Oblast for cargo ships carrying agriproducts.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative, as it's officially called, was extended in November for another 120 days and is subject to renewal in March.

Meanwhile, Russia has been allegedly derailing the previously successful initiative that allowed Ukraine to export over 6 million tons of agricultural products monthly, approaching 2021 numbers.

As part of the deal, ships entering and leaving Ukrainian ports are required to undergo an inspection by Ukrainian, Russian, Turkish, and UN observers in the Bosphorus Strait.

On Feb. 15, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov accused Russia of sabotaging the initiative by deliberately slowing down inspections.

According to the joint statement, more than 140 vessels are waiting for inspections, with some in a queue for over a month.

Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi told the Kyiv Independent that Russia decreased the number of inspections by half.

As a result, in January, Ukraine only transported 5.5 million metric tons of agricultural products, instead of the 6.9 million tons reached in October, Solskyi adds.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Vershinin signaled Russia's unwillingness to renew the initiative unless it is exempt from sanctions affecting agriculture export.

Western sanctions don't target Russian grain and fertilizer exports, but previously Russia sought to ease sanctions on Rosselkhozbank, a state agricultural bank, including reconnecting it to SWIFT.

With the Black Sea Grain Initiative renewal in March being up in the air, the Kyiv Independent spoke with Solskyi about the export of agricultural products, the grain deal, damages and losses suffered by farmers due to Russia's all-out war, and Ukraine's current needs.

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The Kyiv Independent: What were the dynamics of agricultural exports after the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, and how did they change compared to the year prior?

Mykola Solskyi: Our worst month was March when we exported about 330,000 metric tons of (agricultural) products. On average, before the war, we shipped 5-6 million metric tons (of grain) a month.

Starting in March, (export) was increasing every month. In April, the Danube River and the western corridors became more active.

In August, the Black Sea Grain Initiative, (brokered by) the Turks and the UN, was added.

In September-October, we reached large volumes  about 6.9 million metric tons per month (of all agricultural exports), which is normal for Ukraine.

But this is not an indicator because we were behind schedule for almost half a year and had large carryover stocks from last year. Of course, it started to put pressure on the market from the first month and continued to do so in the fall.

Then in the fall, there were interruptions because remember, there was an issue with the extension of the grain corridor.

In December, (exports) started to fall, and in January, they decreased because the grain corridor started working poorly. The Russians (started) inspecting only half of the needed ships in the Bosphorus (Strait).

In January, we transported 5.5 million tons of agricultural products.

The Kyiv Independent: You said that in January, two-three ships were leaving the Black Sea ports every day, while in September and October, this figure was six-seven.

Could you tell us how Ukraine plans to solve this problem and how this delay affects the global food crisis?

Mykola Solskyi: It has a direct effect because there is less supply of grain in the world. Blocking the grain corridor is one factor leading to an increase in prices (worldwide).

What can be done? First of all, the leaders of Ukraine, the ministry, and negotiators communicate with the UN, Turkey, and all other partners to try to resolve the situation.

It's constant work.

Meanwhile, the issue of extending the grain corridor for the second time is also under way, which means both issues have to be resolved simultaneously. We are working on it.

The Kyiv Independent: As you noted, in March, the grain agreement should be renewed once again to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of the grain corridor.

In your opinion, is it possible to reach an agreement on the continuation of this initiative?

Mykola Solskyi: I hope so, and think that it will be possible.

The Kyiv Independent: Recently, you spoke about the desire to expand the terms of the agreement by including Mykolaiv ports. Are there any other conditions that are currently being lobbied for by Ukraine?

Mykola Solskyi: There are three important issues. In order of priority: firstly, the extension of the grain deal. Secondly, an increase in the number of ships that are being inspected every day. Third, the addition of Mykolaiv ports into the deal.

The addition of Mykolaiv ports without an increase in the number of vessels being inspected daily will unfortunately not lead to anything.

The Kyiv Independent: On Nov. 26, Ukraine launched the Grain from Ukraine program. What is the essence of this initiative, which countries is it aimed at, and which international partners are involved in it?

Mykola Solskyi: Well, it has several aspects. First, an important symbolic and moral aspect is that (Ukraine) understands other countries that are in a difficult situation due to a lack of grain because (Ukraine itself experienced famine).

The second (aspect) is obviously political. We need to be more present in Africa.

Many African countries are not ready to communicate with us very closely. Therefore, (communication) should be a daily task for the relevant government bodies and, accordingly, new opportunities will open up for business so that Africa and Ukraine become closer in terms of trade.

The third point, with which we have already more or less moved forward, is the economic aspect.

Africa is a large market with its own specificities that must be taken into account. It was necessary to increase our economic presence not only with grain but also with other agricultural products. And not only, let's say, the supply of these agricultural products, but also, presumably, some joint infrastructure projects and so on.

In addition, in the course of this work, it is important to explain to the leaders and people of African countries what is happening in Ukraine so that they understand who the aggressor is.

When the president announced (the Grain from Ukraine program) on the anniversary of Holodomor, many countries said that they would participate financially.

Practically all the countries that are democratic and that support us have joined this program. All declared aid from them for this program is about $200 million. About half (of this sum) is still only pledged.

The World Food Program (WFP) has to work out all these details together with us.

The Kyiv Independent: After Russia launched a full-scale invasion, Ukraine managed to liberate Kyiv, Kharkiv, Mykolaiv oblasts, other regions, and Kherson.

What area could potentially be used for growing agricultural products in the liberated territories?

Mykola Solskyi: It's actually difficult to calculate, but it will become clear by the end of spring.

It depends on how static the story will be. Why? Well, we are talking about these liberated territories as of today.

For example, the list of regions that were mentioned does not include Chernihiv and Sumy oblasts, but they were also occupied.

I remember this situation in March last year when most farmers from this region said that they wouldn't do anything given the occupation and all the circumstances of the war. But as soon as (Russian forces) were kicked out from there, (farmers) organized themselves literally in a week, cooperated as much as possible with the State Emergency Service, and sowed (the land) as much as possible.

Various private companies were established with the possibility of obtaining a license to provide demining services.

Moreover, there are various programs, one of which is agreed between the Ministry of Agriculture, WFP and the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and will take time.

And obviously, the level of demining and the level of contamination is very different from region to region.

So (demining) is definitely being done by farmers and businesses with the relevant services, and it will definitely be done for years to come.

I think we will be able to get some more specific figures for the land than those that have been heard from a distant approximation over the past two months by the end of Maybefore the end of the sowing season.

(The support) is needed both technically and financially because (farmers) want to demine the land they lease as soon as possible as they need to continue sowing. And this requires appropriate equipment and appropriate funds.

These two supports are clear. We have all applied for (this support). It is already there somewhere, and negotiations are underway elsewhere.

The Kyiv Independent: How would you assess the damage that Russia has caused to Ukrainian agriculture? What percentage of arable land was lost due to Russian occupation and hostilities?

Mykola Solskyi: There is direct and indirect damage.

The assessment carried out by the Kyiv School of Economics valued damages at $6.6 billion. The ministry agrees with this assessment.

The main damage is indirect, totaling $34.25 billion (according to the same report). It (includes) the loss (sustained by) agricultural businesses, farmers, and all other parties related to this sector due to interruptions in supply chains.

The damage also has a delayed effect because any materials imported for sowing have become more expensive due to the war.

As of today, over 20% of arable land was lost (due to the war).

The Kyiv Independent: How does the destruction of critical infrastructure facilities by Russia affect food security and the possibility of exporting agricultural products?

Mykola Solskyi: Well, clearly, as bad as possible. Grain elevators are connected to electricity, railways are connected to electricity. Interruptions make (exporting) longer, more expensive, and there may be losses in the quality (of the products).

The Kyiv Independent: What are Ukraine's biggest needs in the field of agriculture at the moment?

Mykola Solskyi: An increase in liquidity. Since farmers mostly worked at a loss the past year, they have less money to sow this year.

It is necessary to simplify the process of giving lines of credit, and to make this process quicker. This is now the number one issue  increasing liquidity for sowing. The second issue is again the issue of grain export.

Generators are definitely needed. In most cases, the businesses buy the generators themselves. The ministry agreed with the World Bank that in March, there would be a program to compensate the grain elevators for the purchase of generators that they bought half a year before.

Germany provided the most powerful generators, ranging from 400 to 1000 kilowatts.

Few enterprises need such generators. We first handed them over to bread and dairy factories in the zones that suffered the most. These are the (liberated territories) where there are the most issues with this.

The Kyiv Independent: In your opinion, what could help to develop the Ukrainian agricultural market during the war, and how could Western partners contribute to this?

Mykola Solskyi: We all understand that when we talk about the development during the war, it is a complex story.

We (instead) need to stop the fall and preserve this sector so that it has the opportunity to recover quickly from the war. Therefore, we have to be honest with ourselves and everyone else about it. To preserve this sector, we need an increase in liquidity and the opportunity to sell grain.

The Kyiv Independent: During one of the briefings, you mentioned signing a memorandum on constructing a pipeline to transport vegetable oil from Ukraine to Poland.

Could you tell us more about this project? How long will it take to implement it?

Mykola Solskyi: The Polish government has ordered a feasibility study for this project, which I hope will be calculated in the near future.

There is the possibility of exporting vegetable oil through a pipeline from Yahodyn (in western Ukraine) to Gdansk (in Poland). This (will help to ensure) that there is an alternative way of exporting oil, primarily sunflower oil, because we have a huge industry that affects many things.

The construction of the pipeline won't take long when there are permits. The main thing is to get all the necessary documents. I can't say when we will get them. We would like it to go faster, but it depends on the Polish side.

The Kyiv Independent: Are there any other projects that Ukraine is working on for alternative ways of exporting products?

Mykola Solskyi: I think one huge project is worth implementing  laying a railway track from Ukraine to Baltic (ports) via Poland.

We had negotiations with the Poles. It is still at the level of discussion. We traveled more than once, asked more than once, met with their ministers, there were proposals about this at the highest level.

In general, if we talk about western Ukrainian corridors, (multiple) opportunities (arose) compared to May last year.

There are allocated EU funds within the framework of the development of so-called "solidarity lanes," which provide for modernization, various projects for (Ukraine's state railway operator) Ukrzaliznytsia, and the development of these logistics routes on the border with Poland and other Western countries.
Air-raid warnings were issued in Kyiv and Kyiv Oblast, as well as in Chernihiv and Poltava oblasts, on the evening of Sunday, 26 February.

Source: alerts.in.ua, Ukraines national air-raid alert system; Ukrainska Pravda; Kyiv Oblast Military Administration on Telegram; Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, on Telegram; Viacheslav Chaus, Head of Chernihiv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Details: Ukrainska Pravda journalists reported hearing an explosion, which resembled the sound of an air defence system at work, in Kyiv.

As of 23:35, air-raid warnings were issued in the three Ukrainian oblasts mentioned above, and in parts of Dnipropetrovsk and Kirovohrad oblasts. The warning is also in place in Luhansk Oblast and in Russian-occupied Crimea.

Later the Kyiv Oblast Military Administration reported that Russian air targets were spotted over the oblast.

Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, said that air defence was activated in the Brovary and Boryspil districts in Kyiv Oblast.

Air-raid warnings were also issued in Zhytomyr, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv and Donetsk oblasts.

Viacheslav Chaus, Head of Chernihiv Oblast Military Administration, said that Russian forces were deploying Shahed drones to attack Chernihiv Oblast and that Ukraines air defence was successfully activated.

"Shahed drones [are attacking] the oblast. Be safe. Air defence is operating successfully," Chaus wrote.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Bonanza Creek Ranch film set in Santa Fe, N.M., on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021, where cinematographer Halyna Hutchins died from a gun fired by actor Alec Baldwin. (Jae C. Hong / Associated Press)

Three additional film crew members have sued Alec Baldwin and other producers of the low-budget western "Rust," alleging "dangerous cost-cutting" and reckless behavior contributed to the deadly accident that continues to haunt them.

The lawsuit, which alleges negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress, was filed Friday in state court in Santa Fe, N.M., by crew members Ross Addiego, Doran Curtin and Reese Price. It names Baldwin, his El Dorado Pictures company and Rust Movie Productions LLC, and adds to the tangle of civil litigation stemming from the Oct. 21, 2021, shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The latest filing  which contains new details about the shooting  alleged that the tragedy was caused, in large part, by the producers' desire to prioritize speed and cost containment over crew members' safety.

Hutchins died, director Joel Souza suffered a gunshot wound and other crew members have grappled with the physical and emotional toll without support from the producers, the lawsuit said.

"Defendants cut corners; ignored reports of multiple, unscripted firearms discharges; and persisted, rushed and understaffed, to finish the film," said the lawsuit filed by prominent Albuquerque attorney Jacob G. Vigil.

A spokesperson for Baldwin declined to comment Monday.

Rust producers, who also declined to comment, have previously denied allegations of wrongdoing.

The lawsuit comes more than a year after the tragedy and as criminal cases get underway in New Mexico.

Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed have been charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter and negligent use of a deadly weapon. Last week, Baldwin pleaded not guilty. An attorney for Gutierrez Reed  who has acknowledged loading the gun that day  has said she will soon enter a not guilty plea.

Assistant director David Halls separately reached an agreement with prosecutors to plead no contest to a misdemeanor charge of negligent use of a deadly weapon in exchange for a suspended six-month sentence of unsupervised probation.

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Late last week, Rust Movie Productions, the company behind the troubled western, reached a settlement with New Mexicos Health and Safety Bureau. As part of the deal, the state agency agreed to downgrade a citation it made last year against the production and reduce the financial penalty to $100,000 from $136,793, the maximum under the law.

The agency initially struck a strident tone, saying producers demonstrated plain indifference to employee safety, noting that safety procedures were not followed on set and that earlier accidental gun discharges were not investigated.

The lawsuit by Addiego, Curtin and Price alleges producers passed over "a highly trained and experienced firearms specialist" who was willing to work on the gun-heavy Baldwin film, and instead hired Gutierrez Reed, who previously had served as head armorer on just one film.

"This decision was motivated by Defendants aim for a quick and cheap production," the lawsuit said, noting that Gutierrez Reed, then 24, took on a dual role as armorer and key props assistant for the film.

"Other armorer candidates cautioned against splitting time in a gun-heavy production which required the handling of multiple operable firearms nearly every day," according to the lawsuit. "But Defendants charged ahead with Gutierrez Reed, an inexperienced armorer who would work two jobs for the price of one."

The suit notes the fatal day started out "strained" after seven of the eight camera crew members walked off the job amid complaints about alleged inattention to safety and a lack of nearby lodging. After lunch, the three crew members crowded into a tight space, the small wooden church, with Baldwin, Hutchins, Souza and Halls.

No one bothered to check the gun in the church before the rehearsal, the lawsuit said.

The crew members said they had no warning that Baldwin was going to fire his gun, and they were not wearing earplugs, eye protection or safety shields. All said they suffered physical effects of the blast, including trauma, hearing loss and vibrational shock. In the months that followed, they grappled with other trauma associated with the shooting, but the defendants "offered no diagnostic services or any meaningful emotional or mental health services," according to the suit.

"Despite this, Plaintiffs have independently sought support in dealing with their injuries which include, but are not limited to, insomnia, anxiety, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder," the lawsuit said.

Addiego was the film's dolly operator, responsible for operating the mechanisms for camera movement. Curtin was the set costumer, overseeing costumes and accessories, and Price was the key grip, who handled the non-electric support gear.

Previously, at least two other crew members  the script supervisor Mamie Mitchell and gaffer Serge Svetnoy  sued the producers, contending the set was unsafe and they were placed in harm's way during the rehearsal. The set medic Cherlyn Schaefer also sued.

"With his right hand, Defendant Baldwin repeatedly drew the revolver across his body from the left shoulder holster and pointed it in the direction of the crew members standing in front of him, including plaintiffs," the lawsuit said.

"On his third draw, Defendant Baldwin cocked the hammer of the revolver with the trigger pulled and fired it towards the crew striking Hutchins, and injuring Plaintiffs," the lawsuit said.

The production is planning to resume filming this spring in Montana with Souza, Baldwin and other original cast members.

Staff writer Anousha Sakoui contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Law & Crime

Alex Murdaughs younger brother took the stand on Monday, tearfully describing how he cleaned the gruesome crime scene the morning after his sister-in-law and nephew were murdered in June 2021.

No mother, father, aunt, or uncle should ever have to see and do what I did that day, John Marvin Murdaugh, the defense teams final witness, told Colleton County jurors on Monday about his decision to clean his brothers hunting estate. Its the hardest thing Ive ever been through in my life.

Prosecutors say that Paul Murdaugh was fatally shot outside the feed room near the dog kennels of the South Carolina property on June 7, 2021and that his mother, Maggie, was killed nearby. The next morning, John Marvin told jurors while several people were at the propertys main house, he felt the need to go down to the crime scene to see for himself what had gone on and just kind of take it in.

Noting that investigators had released the scene hours earlier and that he received permission from another law enforcement friend, John Marvin noted that the crime scene was not cleaned up when he arrived and that he could still see where Maggies body had been found. He added that the feed room was still covered with brain fragments, pieces of Pauls skull, and lots of blood.

How the Murdaugh Saga UnfoldedFrom a Boat Crash to Murder

I felt like it was the right thing to do. I felt like I owed [Paul]. And I just started cleaning, he said about his decision to clean the feed room, while Murdaugh looked down and began to cry several feet away at the defense table. In my mind, I told Paul I loved him...I promised him that I'd find out who did this to him.

When asked by defense attorney Jim Griffin if he ever found out who killed his nephew and sister-in-law, John Marvin replied: I have not.

John Marvin was the last witness to testify before the defense rested on Monday. He was also the second family member to testify on behalf of Murdaugh.

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Prosecutors allege that Murdaugh, who has pleaded not guilty to four charges, murdered his family in a deranged scheme to garner sympathy and halt questions about his years-long scheme of stealing money from his law firm and clients. The defense, however, has argued that Murdaugh had no motivation to murder his wife and son that several witnesses have described as his top priority.

All marriages, Im sure, have hiccups here and there, but Im telling you it was a good marriage, he said. Anything that the boys were doing, Alex wanted to do.

Buster, Murdaughs only surviving son, briefly took the stand last week about his nuclear family dynamics, noting that while the four of them were close there were tensions surrounding his fathers decades-long addiction to opioids.

This is not the first time John Marvin has spoken out in defense of his older brother. Alongside his other brother, Randy, he participated in a Good Morning America interview just days after the June 7, 2021 murders where John Marvin said Paul received death threats for his role in a 2019 drunken boating accident that killed a teenage girl.

Law enforcement agents who testified in the trial also noted that Murdaugh also touted the theory that the boat crash was the possible motivation for the murders moments after they were called to the scene.

I didnt think it was a credible threatif it was, I would have tried to do something or notify someone, he said in the 2021 interview. But I guess maybe I made a mistake.

Murdaugh also took the stand on Thursday and Friday, revealing that he lied to law enforcement about his whereabouts the night of the murder and admitting to stealing from clients and his law firm for years. He also admitted to his two-decade opioid addiction, noting he regularly took more than 60 pills a dayincluding oxycontin and oxycodone.

Opiates gave me energy, Murdaugh said. Whatever I was doing, it made it more interesting. It made me want to do it longer. It made everything better. I took so much just to not backslide.

John Marvin told jurors on Monday that he had not been aware of Murdaughs opioid addiction until after the murders, when his brother attempted a botched suicide scheme in September 2021 so that Buster would inherit his $12 million insurance payout. On Thursday, Murdaugh briefly described the roadside shooting, saying that he intended to die that day.

Id never seen anything like it. Ive seen television shows talking about the leg twitching and the squirminess, John Marvin told jurors about taking his brother from an Atlantic detox center after the Labor Day shooting to rehab. He messed himself. He had diarrhea. He just couldn't control it. I'm not talking about in the restroom. I mean, in his pants.

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A Miami Beach man arrested earlier this month after a crash left a woman dead and several others injured is facing more charges.

Dionicio Enrique Castro, 30, was charged with DUI manslaughter, DUI with serious injury and driving without a license. On Feb. 8, Castro was heading eastbound on the 79th Street Causeway in a black Mazda SUV when he struck a median, landed on the westbound lanes and skidded about 20 feet before ramming into a gray Nissan sedan, Miami police say.

READ MORE: Driver arrested after deadly Miami causeway crash. See what cops found inside his SUV

Three women in the sedan, ages 48, 39 and 19, were taken to the Ryder Trauma Center, where the 39-year-old front passenger died hours later, police say. Castro was also hospitalized  and arrested hours  after the wreck.

Police say Castros car housed a loaded semi-automatic handgun, more than 20 grams of marijuana and a small scale used to weigh drugs. At the hospital, staff found a small baggie with cocaine in his wallet and another with Ecstasy in his pockets, police said.

Castro was accused of an armed robbery that occurred the day before the crash. He also had an active bench warrant in connection with a June 2022 theft.

The armed robbery charge stems from an incident that Miami Beach police say happened on Feb. 7: It began when Castro went to two bars with a man, who later asked him for a ride home. Castro agreed, and the victim  and his friend  got into the Mazda SUV.

READ MORE: Man arrested after fatal Miami crash carried out armed robbery a day earlier, cops say

When Castro pulled up to the area of the 1200 block of Marseille Drive, the victim tried to get out of the SUV, and thats when Castro demanded the victims wallet, police say.

Police say that Castro pulled out a firearm and hit the victim after he refused to hand over his wallet. The victim, fearing for his life, then followed Castros orders, giving him the wallet, which was filled with $1,200 in fake bills, cops say.

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While reviewing camera footage from the area, police noticed Castros Mazda and determined it to be the same SUV involved in the fatal crash on the following day. The robbery victim also identified Castro in a photo lineup, police say.

As of Sunday, Castro is being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center.

Omar Rodriguez Ortiz contributed to this report
The Alliance should ask Ukraine to become a NATO member, says Volodymyr Ohryzko

Read also: Ukraine, EU sign memorandum on EUR 18 billion in assistance, with first tranche soon to arrive

To be honest, Im not interested in this, Ohryzko said, branding the offer a second version of the Budapest Memorandum.

And I think that we shouldnt even try to discuss plans like that. We dont need to replace full membership with rapprochement to NATO, he added.

The former minister believes that the alliance should have asked for Ukraine to become a member of NATO, because the Ukrainian army is now the strongest in Europe.

Thats why, I think that such things should, as they say, be swept aside, he said, adding his version of the response to the allies: Dear friends, thank you for such wonderful proposals, but we arent interested in them. We are interested in receiving weapons with not conditions and full membership in NATO.

Read also: Ukraine was offered closer NATO ties to encourage negotiating with Russia, WSJ report says

According to Ohryzko, it will take Ukraine another 150 years to join NATO, if it follows the alternative plan proposed by the UK, Germany, and France.

I think we need to communicate clearly, calmly, without emotion, that the plan doesnt suit us, said the former minister.

On Feb. 24, The Wall Street Journal reported that France, the UK and Germany had offered Ukraine to sign a treaty together that would accelerate Ukraines rapprochement with NATO.

Read also: EU and NATO discuss providing Ukraine with Western fighter jets

This treaty will provide access to Western military equipment, but obliges Kyiv to start peace negotiations with Moscow. It also doesn't guarantee that Ukraine will become a member of the alliance.

Read also: Russia concerned by unexplained explosions in Mariupol, reports UK intelligence

The offer was put forward by UK PM Rishi Sunak, and supported by Berlin and Paris. According to the WSJ, these countries doubt that Ukraine would be able to expel Russian forces from its territory by military means. The countries also believe that Western partners won't be able to support Ukraine with military aid if the war reaches a stalemate.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
TransAlta has power purchase deals in place for Meta and Amazon to buy all of the electricity from wind farms in Oklahoma set to begin operating later this year. (REUTERS/Chris Wattie)

A top TransAlta (TA.TO)(TAC) executive says household name tech giants including Amazon (AMZN) and Facebook parent Meta Platforms (META) have an "insatiable" appetite for renewable power, even as the biggest names in the sector resort to mass layoffs to cut costs amid an uncertain economy.

For years, big U.S. tech firms, including Google parent Alphabet (GOOG) and Apple (AAPL), have led the way among private companies in contracting power from wind and solar sources in a bid to please increasingly emissions-conscious investors.

Calgary-based TransAlta has struck deals with Meta and Amazon to sell the tech companies all of the electricity from two wind projects in Oklahoma set to begin operating later this year.

Todd Stack is TransAlta's chief financial officer, executive vice-president, and head of majority-owned TransAlta Renewables (RNW.TO). He says it's been a struggle to keep up with rising clean energy demand from big tech and beyond, following a "banner year" for inking new off-take contracts in 2021.

"We cannot develop sites fast enough to meet the demand out there," he told Yahoo Finance Canada in an interview. "We're running out of product."

A report released this month by BloombergNEF shows Amazon, Meta, and Google led corporate clean energy buying in 2022, continuing Big Tech's dominance in the market.

"In all, Amazon has announced 24.8GW of PPA's to date, giving it the seventh-largest clean energy portfolio globally, including utilities," the authors wrote. "Technology companies specifically will need to continue buying clean energy to satisfy their rapidly growing electricity demand."

TransAlta says it aims to generate 70 per cent of its earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization from renewables by 2025, up from 35 per cent in 2020.

Its current roster of renewable energy partners also includes Microsoft (MSFT), BHP Group (BHP), the world's largest miner, Calgary-based Pembina Pipeline (PPL.TO), and Duke Energy (DUK) in North Carolina.

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"The Canadian banks are looking to procure power," Stack said. "We see it in industrial companies, and consumer products. It's not just big tech companies anymore. It's much more mainstream now."

Will TransAlta buy TransAlta Renewables?

TransAlta reported fourth-quarter and full-year 2022 financial results on Thursday, booking a $163 million loss, compared with a loss of $78 million in the same quarter last year. Revenue for the three months ended Dec. 31 climbed 40 per cent year-over-year to $854 million.

Toronto-listed shares have fallen 11 per cent over the past 12 months. Shares of TransAlta Renewables have lagged the parent company, tumbling more than 30 per cent over the same period.

TransAlta owns a 60.1 per cent stake in TransAlta Renewables, which the company spun out in 2013 to give investors more direct exposure to its wind and hydroelectric assets.

Stack says buying back the business is in the cards, with TransAlta now flush with cash, and increasingly focused on renewable energy after abandoning coal in Canada in 2021. However, selling the portion owned by the parent company is also an option, he says.

"It's something we quite frankly get criticized a lot about, the complexity of the company with two entities," he said.

"What I've told investors is there is no urgency to make a decision."

Jeff Lagerquist is a senior reporter at Yahoo Finance Canada. Follow him on Twitter @jefflagerquist.

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
SHANGHAI/LONDON (Reuters) - CATL, the world's largest battery maker, has offered to cut costs for Chinese automakers, a move that demonstrates its market power and could also widen China's cost advantage in electric vehicles.

China's CATL has offered smaller domestic electric-vehicle makers discounted prices on batteries, according to four people with knowledge of the terms.

The discount offers included a clause that shocked the auto industry after a year of rising prices: a built-in assumption that prices of lithium carbonate, a key component in auto batteries, would more than halve, three of the people said. The move shows CATL's cost advantage from its investments in lithium mining and refining, and its determination to knock back the challenge from smaller Chinese rivals such as CALB and EVE Energy which have factories ramping up this year, analysts said.

"It's very much a market share game," said Caspar Rawles, chief data officer at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. "This is, I think, in part, a price war."

The offer to automakers, including Nio and Geely's Zeekr unit, that was reported by Reuters earlier this month came with a catch: in exchange for the discount, the automakers would have to pledge most of their battery supply contracts to CATL, according to the three sources. In some cases that share would be as high as 80% of their business for CATL, they said. The EV makers are still negotiating the offers with CATL, the people, who asked not to be named because the matter is private, said.

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd - more widely known by its initials - is the dominant global supplier with a 37% share of the EV market. The company did not respond to a request for comment.

Nio did not respond to a request for comment. Zeekr declined to comment.

CATL has faced some pushback from Chinese automakers for its market dominance and pricing. It was not immediately clear how China's regulators would view CATL's offer of lower prices in exchange for a fixed share of future orders.

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China's government cost and price regulatory agency said on Thursday its officials had visited CATL earlier this month and said it would "strengthen cooperation" with the company, without providing further details.

CATL's offer follows a downturn in lithium prices linked to a slowdown in EV sales in China, which accounted for two-thirds of all battery-powered cars sold in 2022.

For consumers, that could bring prices down after a year when manufacturers struggled with supply chains and rising prices for batteries, the largest single cost in an EV.

Tesla, the global EV leader, slashed prices by up to 20% in early January globally.

END OF SUBSIDIES

Battery prices had been falling for more than a decade before turning higher in 2022. That began to reverse late last year in China.

"There's a price war going on. We've seen it some weeks ago at the vehicle level. We're now seeing it at the battery level," Eric Norris, president of Energy Storage at Albemarle Corp, the world's largest producer of lithium for EVs, told Reuters.

CATL, he said, was looking to try to take advantage of its integration "to cut prices to gain share".

Spot prices for lithium carbonate in China have dropped by about 30% since their peak last year, as inventories were sold down on concern the end of national EV subsidies in China would slow growth. That happened, as predicted, in January.

For CATL, the discount is a way to head off a bid by Chinese EV makers to seek alternatives.

Li Auto has said it will use SVOLT batteries in its new L7 SUV. Xpeng has developed a fast-charging battery with Sunwoda. The company said last year that CATL was no longer its largest battery supplier.

In a move that would lessen its reliance on CATL, Nio is planning to build a new battery plant with annual capacity to produce enough to power about 400,000 long-range EVs, Reuters reported on Friday.

SVOLT, among CATL's smaller rivals, has also offered discounts on battery supplies, Chinese media have reported. SVOLT declined to comment and Reuters could not confirm those reports.

Electric vehicle demand in China has slowed, with the leading industry association predicting 35% growth in 2023, compared to 90% in 2022.

Outside China, CATL, which is building new battery plants in Germany and Hungary, is expanding rapidly and has deals to supply Ford Motor Co and BMW. CATL batteries power Volkswagen's I.D. series and Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y built in China. Nearly 40% of those Teslas were shipped to overseas markets in 2022.

Battery cell prices for EV makers rose about 24% last year, said Prabhakar Patil, a battery industry consultant based in Detroit. The CATL offer would represent a total discount of about 6% from prevailing prices in China, if an automaker used it to lock in half of planned purchases, according to an estimate by Changjiang Securities.

"The reductions that CATL is offering would help the Chinese EV industry," said James Frith, a principal at battery-tech focused venture capital group Volta Energy Technologies. "From the Chinese viewpoint, with China having the dominant electric vehicle market, they don't want to lose that momentum."

He added: "If some of those EVs with discounted batteries end up in Europe, it could cause trade tensions."

(Reporting by Zhang Yan and Brenda Goh in Shanghai, Siyi Liu in Beijing, Nick Carey in London, Ernest Scheyder in Houston and Paul Lienert in Detroit; Editing by Kevin Krolicki and Muralikumar Anantharaman)
By Maayan Lubell

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -A U.S.-brokered summit had barely ended with pledges to calm violence and slow Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank when Palestinian homes were set ablaze by Jewish settlers in retaliation for a deadly Palestinian gun ambush.

Hopes for a calming effect of the meeting hosted by Jordan in the Red Sea port of Aqaba and attended by high-level Israeli and Palestinian security officials, faded further when Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disavowed any notion of a halt to settlement-building.

"The Aqaba agreement was born dead," read a headline in the largest Palestinian daily, Al-Quds, after footage on social media showed young settlers praying while they watched fires in nearby Palestinian village Hawara, just hours after two brothers were shot dead in a car at their nearby settlement.

One Palestinian was killed and more than 100 people were wounded in the settler rampage that followed.

On Monday, an Israeli motorist was killed in another suspected Palestinian shooting attack in the West Bank.

The events cast doubt on Netanyahu's ability to walk a diplomatic tightrope between Washington - pushing for a lasting compromise - and his own cabinet that includes hard-line settlers demanding tough action against Palestinian attacks.

Less than a month ago, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was in Jerusalem reaffirming U.S. support for a two-state solution: independence for the Palestinians in East Jerusalem, Gaza and the West Bank, which they say would be incompatible with Israeli settlements.

If Netanyahu now let violence spiral out of control it would be another, even bigger source of friction with the White House, said Amotz Asa-El, research fellow at the Shalom Hartman research institute.

"If anything like what happened last night resumes and gives Washington reason to suspect that Netanyahu is impotent in handling it, they will talk to him very plainly," said Asa-El, adding the White House has pressured Israeli leaders before.

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"It's now in his interest to show that he is clamping down on this kind of settler violence."

On Monday, State Department spokesperson Ned Price condemned attacks by both sides and welcomed statements by Netanyahu calling for a cessation to what Price described as "vigilante violence" by settlers.

"We expect the Israeli government to ensure full accountability and legal prosecution of those responsible for these attacks, in addition to compensation for the lost homes and property," Price said.

Shortly after a U.S. State Department joint communique on Sunday said Israel had committed to stop approving new settlement units for four months, Netanyahu said that settlement construction would go on as planned.

"There is not and will not be any freeze," he tweeted in an apparent nod to his hardline partners.

PRO-SETTLER PARTIES

Palestinians, alarmed since Israel's Nov. 1 election, when Netanyahu started building his coalition government with ultra-nationalist pro-settler parties Jewish Power and Religious Zionism, look to Washington to rein them in.

"The U.S administration, which fosters this government, must end all these crimes," said the spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

Itamar Ben-Gvir, the national security minister who heads Jewish Power, held a special faction meeting at a settler outpost slated for eviction because it was built without government permit.

"The terrorists should be crushed and it is time to go back to targeted killings and to eliminate the leaders of the inciting terrorist organizations," said Ben-Gvir, while calling on Israelis not to "take the law into their own hands."

Palestinian political analyst George Giacaman predicted more violence. "The main battle will be with settlers," he said.

To be effective, the Aqaba agreements would need a follow-up, said Daniel Shapiro, a former U.S. envoy to Israel and now a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank. Sunday's events, he said, showed there was "a risk that the pace of deterioration will outstrip the diplomatic efforts to reverse it".

Netanyahu's room to manoeuvre appears to be shrinking - Ben-Gvir is already issuing political threats, while Religious Zionism leader and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich last week consolidated his civil powers in the West Bank.

With Netanyahu's new coalition just eight weeks old, Israeli political commentators already are asking whether the veteran politician can hold it together.

"One can see the Aqaba summit as a parable: the Americans announce that Israel has promised to freeze settlement construction, which Netanyahu then denies. At those exact moments, the Jewish Power and Religious Zionism ministers attack the summit and say it is non-binding," wrote Moran Azulay, of Israel's Ynet news site.

"On the eve of the election Netanyahu was pondering the legacy he will have when he is reelected prime minister. At the moment it appears to be chaos and disintegration."

(Reporting by Maayan Lubell, Nidal al-Mughrabi, Ali Sawafta and Rami Amichay; Writing by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Tomasz Janowski and Howard Goller)
NEWPORT  The City Council took a stand in favor of a proposed assault weapon ban making its way through the Rhode Island General Assembly this year.

The lack of gun safety regulations at both the state and federal level, it just doesnt cease to amaze me, Councilor Jeanne-Marie Napolitano said at the City Council meeting Wednesday night. I just wanted to say Ive listened to the news reports of the last week about the shooting at Michigan State University and my heart was heavy, but Im tired of the thoughts and prayers. Its time for action by councils, by state legislators, our Congress in Washington, to adopt common sense gun laws.

Napolitanos resolution, co-sponsored by Councillor Lynn Underwood Ceglie, calls for City Council support of House Bill 5300 which would ban the manufacture, sale and possession of assault weapons throughout the state. The resolution was passed unanimously.

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano

What does the legislation do?

While the bill would prohibit the manufacture, sale or possession of assault weapons in Rhode Island should it pass, those who legally obtained an assault weapon before the law goes into effect would be exempt from punishment if they register the weapon with the local police department, render the weapon inoperable, forfeits the weapon to their local police department, or transfers or sells the weapon to a federally licensed firearm dealer or other person legally allowed to have the weapon. There are also exemptions for police, active military, and certain firearms dealers.

Newport traffic:Newport City Council approves increased traffic enforcement resolution. What to expect.

The legislation lists several types of guns which it characterizes as assault weapons, including semi-automatic shotguns, rifles, pistols with fixed magazines exceeding a certain number of rounds (six for shotguns and 10 for rifles) or the ability to accept detachable magazines. The bill also identifies semi-automatic rifles with folding or telescoping stocks, pistol grips that protrude conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon, bayonet mounts, flash suppressors or threaded barrels designed to accommodate flash suppressors or grenade launchers as an assault weapon.

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Why does Newport City Council support it?

There have been 85 mass shootings in the United States to-date, according to Gun Violence Archive, the deadliest of the most recent shootings being the Michigan State University shooting which killed four and injured five. On Wednesday, just hours before the City Council would convene for its regular session, another mass shooting in Pine Hills, Florida, would claim three lives and injure two others. The perpetrators behind the two deadliest shootings in 2023 so far, the Monterey Park shooting and the Half Moon Bay shooting, both used semi-automatic weapons in their attacks.

Theres nowhere we feel safe, Napolitano said. Not in church, grocery stores, arenas, night clubs, receptions, rallies, shopping malls, in small towns and in large cities. I ask: whose rights do you feel should be violated?

Dining in Newport:Lower Thames Street food scene has changed since 2020. A look at what's come and gone

Although Carlin expressed support of the resolution, he questioned whether the Supreme Court had weighed in on the constitutionality of a states ability to ban assault weapons. City Solicitor Christopher Behan said it depends on the specific state legislation and the way it defines the weapons it seeks to ban.

You do have the second amendment, but the Supreme Court has recognized, as has our Supreme Court in Rhode Island, that there are certain reasonable controls that can be placed on that, Behan said. Youre talking about a house bill that has not been challenged yet. It may be, there were recent challenges to legislation that was enacted but I have to just tell you its all over the place. Its wholly dependent on what is being proposed as a regulation.

Napolitano argued that other states have passed similar legislation, a list which includes both Connecticut and Massachusetts and while there have been arguments against some of these bans, she believes the state should at least take this first step.

Someone has to do something, Napolitano said. Im tired of kids being killed. Im tired of watching people, fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, watching their loved ones taken away. This has to start with us. There has to be a grassroots effort to end this kind of violence.

This article originally appeared on Newport Daily News: RI assault weapon ban bill gets support from Newport City Council
British astronaut Tim Peake discussed creating safe habitats on Mars. Roberto Ricciuti/Getty Images

Astronaut Tim Peake said Europe's space agency avoids hiring people who want a one-way trip to Mars.

The ESA wants people who are thoughtful and aware of risk mitigation, Peake told the FT.

Peake added there were hurdles to overcome to reach Mars safely.

British astronaut Tim Peake said the European Space Agency (ESA) avoided hiring people who said they would live and die on a Mars colony.

During an interview with the Financial Times, published on Monday, Peake said those types of people were not who the space agency was looking for when hiring candidates.

"We're not after people who are happy to throw it all away on a one-way ticket to Mars. We're after people who are very thoughtful and aware of risk mitigation," said Peake, who was the first British ESA astronaut to visit the International Space Station for a scientific expedition.

The ESA confirmed Peake's comments to Insider but declined to comment further, noting that the agency doesn't fly humans to Mars. Representatives for Peake didn't immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Around 2,200 employees work for the ESA, including tech specialists, engineers, and scientists, per its website. The ESA's competency framework has various requirements, including understanding the agency's vision and contributing to overall goals.

Reaching Mars is a key ambition for Elon Musk. His company SpaceX has been successfully testing out its rocket system Starship. Musk eventually wants Starship to take people to the red planet. In March, he predicted people would land on Mars in 2029.

Peake told the FT that before getting there, "we have to get over the hurdles of getting to Mars safely." This included landing on the planet safely, establishing human habitats, and expanding those communities, he added.

"I absolutely do not see us having a problem with getting to Mars and creating safe habitats on Mars," Peake told the FT.

Despite this, Peake said in the interview that living in settlements on Mars would be uncomfortable.

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This is something Musk has also spoken about in the past. "It's very important to emphasize that Mars, especially in the beginning, will not be luxurious," Musk said in a video interview with Chris Anderson, the head of TED, in April. "It will be dangerous, cramped, difficult, hard work."

However, Musk previously said the first mission to Mars would be very dangerous and the risk of death would be high.

"It would be basically: are you prepared to die? And if that's okay then you're a candidate for going," Musk said during the 67th International Astronautical Congress in Mexico in 2016.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Aubrey Plaza fans have been left confused by a moment in which the White Lotus star appeared to be annoyed while onstage.

During Sunday (28 February) nights ceremony, the 38-year-old actor and her White Lotus castmates took the stage to accept the award for Best Drama Series Ensemble. Find the full list of 2023 SAG Awards winners here.

As her co-star F Murray Abraham was wrapping up his acceptance speech, he sent out a prayer to the earthquake victims in Syria and Turkey and a prayer for peace in Ukraine and Russia. He then ended his speech shouting: Union forever!

While the rest of the cast applauded and cheered him on, Plaza could be seen looking around before mouthing something with a seemingly annoyed look on her face.

Fans have since shared the moment across social media, with Twitter users speculating what she was saying, and what she might have been irritated by.

Why is Aubrey Plaza acting weird at the SAG Awards? one questioned.

A second asked: Did anyone notice Aubrey Plaza? She seemed REALLY pissed off... there was something real odd about her onstage with The White Lotus team. She even exited the stage quick and alone rather than staying with the cast.

Congrats to White Lotus for winning SAG Award for Best Series Ensemble, a third praised, adding: Not sure what Aubrey Plaza was on but it was clear she was trying not to be seen.

Some guessed that she had mouthed Jesus Christ. Another interpreted it as S***s f***ed.

Others noticed that Plaza had adjusted the strap of her dress after one of her co-stars whispered in her ear. Several wondered if she was reacting in response to a possible wadrobe malfuction or if it was related to Murray Abrahams speech.

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One defended her, commenting: People talking about Aubrey Plazas behaviour at the SAG Awards clearly do not know her.

The Independent has contacted Plazas representative for comment.

The Parks and Recreation star is well-known for her quirky public persona. In a 2021 interview with The Independent, Plaza addressed her weirdness, saying: Im literally just trying to be normal. But I cant do it.

Earlier in the night, Plaza teamed up with Wednesdays Jenna Ortega to present the award for Best Male Actor in a Limited Series.

Before announcing the nominees, the two mocked their similarities in brilliantly deadpan fashion, quipping: We have nothing in common.
Jenna Ortega and Aubrey Plaza have jokingly claimed they have nothing in common while poking fun at claims they resemble one another.

On Sunday, the actresses attended the 29th annual SAG Awards at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles. During the awards show, the Wednesday star and The White Lotus star appeared onstage together to present an award, where they joked about their similarities.

I dont know why they paired us up together, Plaza said, with Ortega adding: Yeah, I know, we have nothing in common.

We should find the people who did this, Plaza continued, as the crowd laughed.

Ortega then agreed, with the actress adding: And curse their families and watch as 

The duo then spoke in tandem as they continued: ... And watch as misfortune follows their bloodline for the next seven generations.

The moment prompted Plaza to admit that she sees it now, with the pair looking at one another briefly as they acknowledged the resemblances.

On social media, the amusing speech was met with praise from viewers, with many applauding the stars for their mocking acknowledgement of the comparisons.

Aubrey Plaza and Jenna Ortega being dark and moody togetherlove lol#SAGAwards pic.twitter.com/DOsD3bswlW  Spencer Althouse (@SpencerAlthouse) February 27, 2023

Aubrey Plaza and Jenna Ortega being dark and moody togetherlove lol #SAGAwards, one person tweeted, while another said: Jenna Ortega and Aubrey Plaza presenting together at the #SAGAwards is the best thing thats happened in 2023 so far.

Whoever paired Aubrey Plaza and Jenna Ortega together deserves a raise #SAGAwards, someone else claimed.

Others shared their hopes for a potential future collaboration between Ortega and Plaza, with another person tweeting: Put Aubrey Plaza and Jenna Ortega in a movie. Now.
AUDE GUERRUCCI

Austin Butler is still adjusting to his post-Elvis life, and it sounds like he still cant shake the voice. Ever since the Golden Globes, where Butlers enduring Elvis accent became the talk of the night, the Internet has been obsessed. On Mondays WTF with Marc Maron, the actor tried once again to explain his relationship with the Kings unmistakable drawl.

I dont even know how to talk about it, Butler, who still sounded an awful lot like Presley in the podcast interview, told his host. I spent three years doing nothing else but trying to understand [Elviss] mind and speak like him and sing like him. It was such an incredible focus in one direction.

Why in the Hell Is Austin Butler Still Talking Like Elvis?

While preparing for and making Baz Luhrmanns 2022 biopic, Butler went fully Method. As in, hes said he did not see his family for three years while working on the film. (Is this commitment to the craft, or just indulgent? The Internet continues to discuss!) Now, Butler says that he mightve attached certain sides of himself to his character.

Being such a shy kid, having the tools to get on a stage as Elvis, I had to learn certain bits of myself, Butler told Maron. So I think habitually, certain things are linked to a feeling of being able to go out in front of a ton of people. I think certain things might trigger that feeling of confidence that I had as Elvis.

Say what you want about the methods Butler used to get there, but his Elvis performance has been nothing short of a phenomenon. For a while there, everyone on a certain corner of the Internet seemed to be thirsting after Butlers Presleyeven people who didnt even like the movie. Earlier this month, after months of attempting to explain the accent, Butler shocked the nation by announcing his plans to get rid of it.

But I have probably damaged my vocal cords with all that singing, Butler added. One song took 40 takes.

Can Austin Butler Suppress the Elvis Voice While Eating Hot Wings?

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Even so, the accent has remained at large. In fact, the husky twang was last spotted just one week ago during Butlers episode of the YouTube series Hot Ones. Alas, old habits die hard. During their conversation, Butler and Maron likened the struggle to the way Al Pacinos Scarface character, Tony Montana, seemed to stay with him for years after the film.

It's only ever you, you know? Butler told Maron. You're turning up bits of yourself, and you're manipulating the architecture of your own mouth, and so it's a strange thing because you're finding different bits of yourselfand then suddenly you're going out into the world.

In Memoriam: Austin Butlers Elvis Voice (2019-2023)

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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SYDNEY (Reuters) - Two members of Australia's central bank governing board will stand aside when their terms end later this year to make way for fresh appointments, according to Treasurer Jim Chalmers weeks ahead of the release of a formal review into the bank.

Mark Barnaba and Wendy Craik will finish their five year terms on the Reserve Bank of Australia's rate-setting committee in May and August, respectively, according to the bank's website.

Chalmers said Barnaba, deputy chair of Fortescue Metal Group, and Craik, chair of the CSIRO Oceans Atmosphere Advisory Board, had agreed to not seek another term.

"This is an opportunity to refresh the Reserve Bank board," said Chalmers in an interview broadcast on Sky on Monday.

"They are prepared to not be considered for further reappointment and I think that's a good thing for the Reserve Bank board. It does give us that opportunity for an element of renewal."

The move comes less than a week after the Reserve Bank published a public job advertisement for a board member, the first time the powerful position has been thrown open to the public.

Chalmers will receive the results of an independent inquiry into the Reserve Bank's governance and policy record on March 31. He has previously said he would make a decision towards mid-year about whether to extend Governor Philip Lowe's term by another three years.

The nine member board includes the Governor, the Deputy Governor, a senior Treasury official and six non-executive members, appointed by the Treasurer.

Decisions are made by majority with tiebreakers decided by the Chair, either the Governor or Deputy Governor.

(Reporting by Lewis Jackson; Editing by Simon Cameron-Moore)
A police officer was shot in Dupo around 1:30 p.m. Sunday, and another victim was found dead in a nearby home, authorities said.

The officer, whose identity was not released, was taken to an area hospital after he was shot in the 700 block of McBride Avenue. The officer is out of surgery and in recovery, said Dupo Police Chief Dennis Plew. The officer, a 12-year department veteran, remained in critical condition Monday morning.

The deceased victim is Darryl T. Mantz, 46, of North Fourth Street, Belleville, said St. Clair County Coroner Calvin Dye Sr. He was pronounced dead at 5:10 p.m. at a residence in the 400 block of McBride Avenue in Dupo.

Illinois State Police said they were also on the scene.

One deceased victim has been located at a nearby residence, state police said in a news release.  The suspect is believed to be barricaded in another nearby residence. This is an active situation. Please avoid the area.

The suspect was found dead in the residence. Dye identified him as Reginald Allen, 40, of Dupo. He was pronounced dead at 12:10 a.m. Monday. He died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, authorities said.

Other details were limited, including answers to questions about the circumstances surrounding the shooting of the officer and the death of Mantz and information about the shooters weapon.

Authorities are expected to release more details Monday.
Peak Plastics Report from Back to Blue

London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - February 26, 2023) - Plastic consumption is on track to nearly double in the G20 by 2050 unless the United Nations agrees on a sweeping set of new global policies, including worldwide bans on some single-use plastic products, extended producer responsibility schemes and taxes on virgin plastic production, according to a new report.



The report, Peak Plastics: Bending the consumption curve, is the first study to forensically model the potential impact of policies being considered by United Nations plastic treaty negotiators. Plastics consumption across G20 countries will hit 451 million tonnes each year by 2050, nearly twice the 2019 level of 261 million tonnes, in a business-as-usual scenario, the study found.



The research comes from Back to Blue, an initiative of Economist Impact and The Nippon Foundation, and was supported by prominent authorities on plastic production, consumption and pollution including OECD, the World Bank, SYSTEMIQ, CSIR, and WWF. It also reveals that on our current trajectory countries will not reach peak plastic consumption this century: the tipping point after which plastic consumption begins to decline.



In March last year, 175 nations agreed to develop a legally binding global instrument to end plastic pollution: the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution. This historic treaty is being negotiated through a series of meetings across the globe and is expected to be in place by the end of 2024. Only policies at the most ambitious end of those under consideration will have a meaningful impact on a soaring plastic waste crisis, the Back to Blue research found.



Researchers for the report explored three policy approaches that have reached the advanced stages of the UN treaty's negotiations, deemed by experts as those with the greatest potential to bring about peak plastic consumption.



These policies, which cover the entire lifecycle of plastic, from production to disposal, are a ban on problematic single-use plastic products; "polluter pays" Extended Producer Responsibility schemes for full end-of-life costs; and a tax on virgin plastic production - all fail to prevent a relentless rise in plastic consumption.



Only a combination of these policies and bolder action, including possible restrictions on virgin plastic production, will bring about peak plastics and see consumption slow in the future. If the negotiators fail to agree on any policy interventions, the research projects that plastic consumption in the countries under study will nearly double by mid-century.



According to the report, a global ban on unnecessary single-use plastic (SUP) items is the most effective policy of those studied. However, even with a SUP ban in place, plastic consumption will still be 1.48 times higher in 2050 compared with the 2019 baseline.



Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes will have a minimal effect on the consumption of single-use plastic products but it is still a vital part of the solution. If EPR schemes become mandatory in the countries under focus, plastic consumption would be 1.66 times higher in 2050 compared with 2019. This is barely lower than the baseline of 1.73 times if no policies are implemented.



Modelling shows the impact of a tax on virgin plastic resin will be limited and will still see consumption rise by 1.57 times by 2050. Taxes must be aggressive to be impactful, according to the research. In the absence of a tangible impact on plastic consumption by increasing taxes, the research suggests that negotiators should consider capping plastic production.



A combination of all three scenarios still leaves plastic consumption rising albeit at a slightly slower pace - 1.25 times higher in 2050 compared with 2019. The findings highlight the 'considerable' possibility that the UN treaty will be too weak to bend the consumption curve downward.



To suppress plastic consumption at the scale needed, the report presents the need for measures and conditions so stringent that they are likely to encounter opposition from producers, retailers, industry bodies, consumer groups and other actors.



QUOTE 1: "Negotiators of the UN plastics treaty must maintain the highest levels of ambition possible when entering the next round of negotiations, and industry needs to play a constructive, not obstructive, role in reaching a deal.



So far, commitments by industry, retailers and brands to reduce plastic waste are short on detail and have failed to materialise. We have to slow the soaring production of single-use plastic. Only a bold suite of legally-binding policies will result in plastic consumption peaking by mid-century." - Charles Goddard, editorial director, Economist Impact



QUOTE 2: "Back to Blue's research is a timely call for urgent, ambitious solutions to the plastic crisis. Plastic pollution extends beyond all borders, impacting the health of the ocean and natural environment. It will take global co-ordination to address the scope and scale of this issue." - Yohei Sasakawa, chairman of the Nippon Foundation.



QUOTE 3: "The urgency to reach peak plastic waste-and also peak production of disposable plastics-is crucial for preserving our planet and safeguarding our well-being." - Perinaz Bhada Tata, World Bank



QUOTE 4: "Proper plastic management is the biggest challenge facing us today. With mounting evidence that the world is generating more single-use plastics than ever before, the Back to Blue report plays a crucial role in identifying countries that are likely to become major sources of such waste. The report is also an essential guide to understand effective policy-making to address the plastics conundrum." - Aafrin Kidwai, Solid Waste India



QUOTE 5: "This report confirms that an urgent, global effort is needed to stop the flood of plastic pollution at its source. The entire lifecycle of plastics, from feedstock extraction and production of plastic precursors to disposal, must be addressed by the future, legally binding UN treaty to end plastic pollution. The policy levers examined in this report will not be sufficient: bolder action is needed, including globally coordinated tax mechanisms coupled with ambitious caps on virgin plastic production." David Azoulay, Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL)



You can find the full report and data story here



Notes to Editors



'Peak plastics' is the tipping point after which plastic consumption begins to decline. Back to Blue's modelling uses a quantitative forecasting methodology to predict at what point each country will reach a peak in its consumption of plastic.



Back to Blue selected three real-world policy scenarios that are already being implemented at various degrees globally: a ban on single-use plastic (SUP) products; a mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for industrial consumers; and a producer tax on virgin resin. These three policies are cited in the advance documentation for negotiators related to the UN Treaty on Plastic Pollution.



The seven categories of polymers used in the model account for 80% of all plastic production. The objective is to test if plastic consumption will reach a peak, assuming that consumers, producers and policy makers understand the true cost of producing and using plastic products. We are assuming that some products, not only single-use plastic products, shift towards using substitute materials.

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About Back to Blue

"Back to Blue" is an initiative launched by Economist Impact and The Nippon Foundation in 2021 to focus efforts on evidence-based approaches and solutions that tackle escalating ocean challenges, such as those posed by major threats such as climate change, pollution and habitat destruction.



While governments and policymakers have begun efforts towards restoring biodiversity and regenerating ocean health, there remains an ostensible knowledge gap on plastic and chemical pollution.



Recognising the need to stimulate fresh dialogue and solutions to pressing ocean issues, this multi-year initiative brings together both organisations' unique capabilities in ocean research and programme-building to build a powerful platform which will accelerate momentum in improving ocean health. In 2021, the Plastic Management Index published under Back to Blue addressed the issue of marine plastic pollution. In 2022 the focus is on the less visible pollution from chemical contaminants that are damaging ocean life and ecosystems and in the long term, human health."



About Economist Impact



Economist Impact combines the rigour of a think-tank with the creativity of a media brand to engage a globally influential audience. We believe that evidence-based insights can open debate, broaden perspectives and catalyse progress. The services offered by Economist Impact previously existed within The Economist Group as separate entities, including EIU Thought Leadership, EIU Public Policy, EIU Health Policy, Economist Events, EBrandConnect and SignalNoise.



We are building on a 75-year track record of analysis across 205 countries. Along with framework design, benchmarking, economic and social impact analysis, forecasting and scenario modelling, we provide creative storytelling, events expertise, design-thinking solutions and market-leading media products, making Economist Impact uniquely positioned to deliver measurable outcomes to our clients.



About The Nippon Foundation



Established in 1962, The Nippon Foundation is Japan's largest philanthropic foundation, providing support to public-service activities in a variety of fields across national borders. In ocean affairs, the Foundation aims to cultivate human resources who will chart a course for the ocean's future and to pass on the ocean's riches to future generations. Other primary areas of activity include support for children, persons with disabilities, disaster relief, and international cooperation, with the ultimate goal of achieving a society where all people support one another.

Media Contact: Backtoblue@browningenvironmental.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/156225
BARCELONA (Reuters) - Catalonia's regional government is addressing the problem of long queues for taxis at the world's biggest telecoms conference, which starts in Barcelona on Monday, by relaxing restrictions on ride-hailing companies like Uber and Cabify.

The Mobile World Congress (MWC) expects to attract about 80,000 delegates from across the world this year but in the past there have been long queues for cabs outside the venue.

Catalan authorities have relaxed rules so ride-hailing cabs from across Spain can operate in Barcelona between Feb.24 and March 7.

In September last year, Spain's regional governments were told by the central government to issue new rules for private cars transporting passengers hired through mobile platforms such as Uber, Bolt and local rival Cabify, after protests from taxi drivers over unfair competition.

Some regions, such as Madrid and Andalusia, allowed the drivers to continue to operate as before, but others, such as Barcelona, introduced more restrictive measures.

Ignacio Manzano, vice-president of ride-hailing industry body Feneval, said the relaxation of the rules in Barcelona for MWC proved that the city did not have enough taxis during major conferences.

"There is a lack of alternatives to get around in Barcelona since the Catalan government introduced restrictions," he said in a statement.

"This period of grace is a recognition that the actual restrictions do not represent the interests of the city."

A spokesman for the Catalan government said an exception has been introduced at the request of Barcelona council for these ride-hailing cabs to provide services for ten days.

(Reporting by Graham Keeley; Editing by Christina Fincher)
The Unification Church and Rod of Iron Ministries are two organizations that have been described as cults. While they share a common link, the Moon family, the churches are rather different in their beliefs.

Here are some key facts on both organizations.

To learn more about the history of these two organizations, check out our deep dive on this topic, featuring insights from international cult expert Rick Alan Ross.

Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity

The Rev. Sun Myung Moon and his wife stand before some of the 2,200 couples who were married in New York's Madison Square Garden, July 1, 1982. The bride's dresses were made of identical blue satin and lace while the grooms all wore navy blue suits and red ties. About a third of the couple included men and women of difference races or nationalities, in keeping with the Unification Church's belief that interracial marriages can help end racism.

Alternate names: Unification Church, "Moonies"

Started where/when: South Korea, 1954

Started by: Yong Myung Moon, later known as Sun Myung Moon

Currently led by: Hak Ja Han, Moon's widow

Core beliefs: Moon is a Messiah sent to complete Jesus Christ's unfinished work. The world was created from the Christian God's "inner nature," reflected by the dual expressions of life: Sung Sang, which is causal and masculine, and Hyung Sang, which is resultant and feminine. Moon was intended to bring god's love to his followers through actions including mass wedding ceremonies, encouraging his followers to follow the example of Moon and his family.

Political connections: Conservative, spanning South Korea, Japan, the United States, and other regions. The Unification Church has reportedly held connections with presidents Richard Nixon, George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush, Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev, North Korean president Kim Il-sung, and Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan.

From USA TODAY:Ex-Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe assassinated, dies at 67 after campaign shooting

World Peace and Unification Sanctuary Church

Sean Moon prays at the Sanctuary Church in Newfoundland.

Alternate names: Rod of Iron Ministries

Started where/when: Pennsylvania, 2013

Started by: Hyung Jin Moon, also known as Sean Moon, Sun Myung Moon's son

Currently led by: Hyung Jin Moon, also known as Sean Moon

Core beliefs: Moon launched World Peace and Unification Sanctuary Church following the death of his father and conflicts with his mother regarding his position in the Unification Church. Rod of Iron Ministries is considered a militant splinter group of the Unification Church, encouraging some core ideals of Moon's father's church while venerating and worshipping firearms, particularly the AR-15, as the Christian bible's proverbial "rod of iron."

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Political connections: Far-right, particularly throughout the United States. Moon has been quite vocal about his support for former President Donald Trump, supporting "the big lie," and being involved in the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection. The church's Rod of Iron Freedom Festival has drawn support from numerous far-right advocates and celebrities pushing Second Amendment rights and other topics.

Of interestMeet the man beneath the (bullet) crown: Sanctuary Church's Sean Moon speaks out

This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: Unification Church and Rod of Iron Ministries: What sets them apart
(Reuters) - Bath & Body Works Inc said on Monday investor Third Point's potential proxy contest is misguided and is a result of the specialty retailer not willing to appoint the hedge fund's former co-chief investment officer to its board.

Billionaire investor Daniel Loeb had last week told the company that Third Point was planning a board challenge as the addition of new directors does not address his concerns about governance, capital allocation and executive pay.

Bath & Body Works said in the last twelve months the board has appointed four highly qualified directors, of which Lucy Brady, a senior executive at Conagra Brands, was proposed by Third Point.

In a letter to its shareholders, the company said the potential proxy contest was due to the board's unwillingness to appoint Loeb's former partner Munib Islam to the board.

Islam, who played a key role in Third Point's activist campaigns, left the firm in 2020 and is now a senior executive at LTS One, an investment partnership.

While it has taken "reasonable" steps to avoid a proxy fight, Bath & Body Works said it is "disappointing and unfortunate" that it will have to spend more time on this despite efforts to engage productively with the hedge fund.

Third Point, which had in December said it had a roughly 6% stake, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

(Reporting by Ananya Mariam Rajesh in Bengaluru and Svea Herbst-Bayliss in New York; Editing by Arun Koyyur)
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko at the Novo-Ogaryovo state residence, outside Moscow, Russia, February 17, 2023. Vladimir Astapkovich, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP

Opposition activists in Belarus said they destroyed a Russian military aircraft near Minsk.

The head of a group opposing Belarus' dictator said those behind the attack escaped the country.

Belarus is Russia's closest European ally, and has aided in its invasion of Ukraine.

Belarus opposition figures said on Monday that they had damaged a Russian military jet that was parked in their country, an unexpected attack within Russia's closest European ally.

The head of Belarusian opposition group BYPOL took responsibility for the attack, with its leader, Aliksandr Azarov, saying on Telegram that it was accomplished using drones. "Those were drones. The participants of the operation are Belarusian," he wrote, according to Reuters.

BYPOL is a group of current and former law enforcement officers who oppose the government led by President Alexander Lukashenko. Lukashenko has been in power since 1994 and is known as "Europe's last dictator."

Azarov said that the people responsible for the attack "are now safe, outside the country."

He told Polish news outlet Belsat, which is aimed at Belarusian citizens, that the operation had been planned for months. The group bought n0n-combat drones that were then reworked for the attack, he said.

The attack, and who is behind it, has not been independently verified.

According to BYPOL, the attack took place on a Russian A-50 surveillance aircraft, which was located at the Machulishchi military airfield near Minsk. The A-50 is an early warning aircraft with command and control capabilities and the ability to track up to 60 targets at a time, according to Reuters.

The group said the plane was so damaged that it would not be able to fly.

Franak Viacorka, an adviser to exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, told the BBC that the attack was "creative" and "sophisticated".

"It was very brave because Belarusians are in a situation of the total terror," he said.

Viacorka added on Twitter that the base where the attack happened "was being actively used by Russian army for air attacks on Ukraine."

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Belarus has supported Russia's invasion of Ukraine, allowing Russian troops to use the country as a transit point. Russian ballistic missiles have also been launched into Ukraine from Belarus' territory.

Ukraine has repeatedly expressed fears that Belarusian troops will enter the conflict on the side of Russia.

Lukashenko said earlier this month that he will not send soldiers to fight in Ukraine unless his country was attacked, with some officials suggesting he made the promise out of fear of domestic backlash if he became more involved in the war.

The president has faced stronger domestic opposition in recent years, including in 2020 when hundreds of thousands protested the result of a presidential election, when Lukashenko claimed victory but many viewed the result as fraudulent.

Lukashenko's response was to detain thousands of people and launch a brutal crack down on media freedom and human rights organizations in the country. Since then, he has relied even more heavily on Putin for support.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Student Loan Borrowers Gather At The Supreme Court To Tell The Court That Student Loan Relief Is Legal

Student loan borrowers gathered at the Supreme Court today to tell the court that student loan relief is legal on Jan. 2, 2023 in Washington, D.C. Credit - Larry FrenchGetty Images/We, The 45 Million

On Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023, the Supreme Court will hear arguments in a case challenging the Biden administrations decision to cancel the debt of millions of student borrowers across the country. The attorneys general of our states are seeking to block needed reliefthe cancellation of up to $20,000 in student debt per residentfrom flowing to our communities. They claim this debt relief will harm our states. They are wrong.

As the mayors of four major cities (Kansas City, Little Rock, Birmingham, and Montgomery) with significant Black and brown populations, we hope the justices kick this ill-conceived case out of court. The Biden administrations debt cancellation plan is not only especially meaningful for our constituents, it will also lift up our cities and states economically.

In August 2022, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona announced steps to eliminate or reduce debt burdens for millions of student borrowers. The plan was targeted at those who need relief the most, with nearly 90% of those likely to receive debt relief earning less than $75,000 per year. Importantly, this plan would also help more than 40 million student borrowers, many of whom are at risk of delinquency or default because of hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. In fact, more than half of all student borrowers say their entire financial stability depends on loan forgiveness.

Read More: The Supreme Court Is Set to Rule on Student Loan Forgiveness. Heres What Could Happen Next

Instead of celebrating crucial relief of economically burdened residents, our state attorneys general decided to fight the plan in federal court. Though millions of borrowers have applied to receive cancellation, none has happened yet. The plan has been put on hold by the lower courts, despite clear and convincing evidence that the states suing wont actually be harmed by the debt relief.

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In partnership with the Public Rights Project, we filed a brief joined by 40 local governments in 24 states across the country. Collectively, we represent more than 30 million Americans, including almost 20 million people of color. The point we made to the Supreme Court was simple: When debt burdens of our residents are lifted, we all benefit.

When debt burdens are lifted, student borrowers can start new businesses and in turn, create job opportunities for others. They can buy homes for the first time in their lives, pay down other debts such as their credit card bills, and have less reliance on social safety net programs. Reducing educational debt improves mental health, allows families to start saving, and gives more people a realistic chance to stay in the professional field they actually chose and are trained for.

For our four cities alone, the Student Borrower Protection Center estimates that more than 177,000 thousand residents will receive greater than $1.3 billion in debt relief, which includes more than 85,000 borrowers seeing their entire loan balances eliminated. This debt relief will have intergenerational impacts, as it will allow families to accumulate wealth and support relatives to pursue and complete their own degrees in higher education.

Despite the many benefits of freeing our residents of oppressive debt, our states attorneys general, however, are claiming that our states will somehow be harmed economically by the debt cancellation plana strained attempt to establish what is called standing in federal court. What they are really doing is misusing their power in an effort to score political points, all at the expense of our communities and so many people of color.

Across the U.S., student borrowers owe nearly $1.75 trillion. These burdens are borne disproportionately by people of color. Black women are especially hard hit by student debt, as many have fallen victim to the promises of predatory for-profit schools. One survey from the Education Trust found that Black women have more debtan average of $38,800 in federal loansafter completing undergraduate schooling than any other group. These unique burdens have lasting intergenerational effects, as the Institute for Womens Policy Research estimates that nearly 40% of Black women in college are caring for at least one child.

Overall Black borrowers have more difficulty paying their student debts back. The average Black borrower still owes 95% of their debt after 20 years, while a comparable white borrower owes only 5%.

Debt cancellation is a shot at greater equity. Almost half of Latino borrowers and a quarter of Black borrowers will see their debts entirely eliminated by the debt cancellation plan. Significant reduction or elimination of debt not only lowers or zeroes out monthly payments but also leaves people less vulnerable to wage garnishment, loss of tax credits, or Social Security offsetsamong the strict remedies available to those who enforce student debt obligations.

We are four mayors who were lucky to have been able to afford our student loan payments, although not without struggle for some of us. But, there are millions of Americans across the country living paycheck to paycheck and forced to make difficult decisions, including whether to pay their student loan bill, or put food on the table for their families or stay housed.

Debt relief is critical for our communities. We are urging the Supreme Court to reinstate the program right away to give everyone an opportunity to thrive and ensure Americas families can live stronger financial lives.
Mark Von Holden/NBC - Getty Images

Better Call Saul alum Michael Mando has been replaced on his new show, Apple TV+'s crime drama Sinking Spring.

Mando, who starred in all six seasons of the Breaking Bad spin-off, has now been replaced by Narcos star Wagner Moura (as reported by Deadline) after what's said to be an on-set physical altercation with another cast member.

Digital Spy has reached out to Mando's representatives regarding the reports.

The series is based on Dennis Tafoya's book Dope Thief, Sinking Spring and follows long-time Philly friends and delinquents  Ray (Henry) and Manny (Moura)  who pose as DEA agents to rob an unknown house in the countryside.

WireImage

They then struggle as their small-time grift becomes a life-and-death enterprise when they unwittingly reveal and unravel the biggest hidden narcotics corridor on the Eastern seaboard.

The eight-episode series hails from The Batman and Top Gun: Maverick writer Peter Craig, with Ridley Scott on board to direct and executive produce.

Better Call Saul ended last month and saw Saul finally caught and put behind bars for all his years of money laundering and helping criminals.

AMC

Related: Better Call Saul ending explained  What happened to Saul in the series finale?

Series star Bob Odenkirk has moved onto his new venture, Lucky Hank, a "mid-life crisis tale" that blends drama and comedy and takes place at a fictional university in Pennsylvania.

The show synopsis reads: "An English department chairman at an underfunded college, Professor Hank Devereaux toes the line between midlife crisis and full-blown meltdown, navigating the offbeat chaos in his personal and professional life  oddly proving tantrums get better with age".

Odenkirk plays William Henry 'Hank' Devereaux Jr, the main character. It also stars Mireille Enos as Hank's wife, who "begins to question the path she's on and the choices she's made"



Lucky Hank arrives on AMC+ in the US on March 16, 2023.

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LONDON (AP)  Betty Boothroyd, the first  and so far only  female speaker of Britains House of Commons, has died, parliamentary authorities said Monday. She was 93.

Boothroyd, who presided over the Commons often raucous debates with no-nonsense humor between 1992 and 2000, died Sunday at a hospital in Cambridge, southern England.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called Boothroyd a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to politics.

The passion, wit and sense of fairness she brought to politics will not be forgotten, he said.

Born in Dewsbury, northern England, in 1929, Boothroyd worked as a dancer in a chorus line troupe called the Tiller Girls before entering politics. She worked as an assistant to several lawmakers and, after several unsuccessful runs, was elected to Parliament in 1973 for the Labour Party.

Nineteen years later, she became the first woman to be elected speaker by lawmakers in the 700-year history of the role.

She dropped the tradition of wearing a shoulder-length white wig, and favored skirts over the knee-length breeches worn by her predecessors. Her iron-voiced admonition of Order! Order! and brisk Yorkshire humor helped keep unruly lawmakers in line.

After leaving the job, she was appointed to Parliaments unelected upper chamber, the House of Lords.

Former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who served from 1997 to 2007, said that Boothroyd was a truly outstanding speaker, presiding with great authority, warmth and wit, for which she had our deep respect and admiration.

Speaker Lindsay Hoyle said Boothroyd was an inspiring woman and an inspirational politician.

She stuck by the rules, had a no-nonsense style, but any reprimands she did issue were done with good humor and charm, he said. Betty was one of a kind. A sharp, witty and formidable woman  and I will miss her.
Nearly three years ago, as the COVID-19 pandemic forced people from jobs, businesses shuttered and the Trump administration attempted to stave off economic turmoil, White House officials made the decision to temporarily pause all student loan repayments without penalty and accruing interest.

But that temporary pause, which has been extended eight times since, has proven to be far more permanent than intended. And how to move forward out of the pause has become such a politically fraught topic that it will land at the Supreme Court this week.

President Joe Biden, who campaigned on forgiving up to $10,000 per borrower during his 2020 campaign, and was under growing pressure to both deliver on his promise and lift the payment pause, in late August finally announced that he would do so.

The plan was to invoke emergency powers because of economic hardship endured from the pandemic and forgive $10,000 in student debt for all borrowers who made less than $125,000, or $250,000 as a married couple, and up to $20,000 for borrowers who had also received Pell grants while they were in school. (A Pell grant is a small government grant for low-income families.)

Up to 95% of borrowers would have some amount of debt canceled, the White House said.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks about the student debt relief portal beta test in the South Court Auditorium on the White House complex in Washington, Oct. 17, 2022. (Susan Walsh/AP, FILE)

MORE: Supreme Court case against Biden student debt relief could hinge on Missouri

In part, the White House billed it as a carrot to ease Americans back into loan repayments that they'd been exempt from for nearly three years. Department of Education officials cited data that borrower default rates have gone up twenty-fold following natural disasters in the past, arguing that the debt relief after the pandemic was supposed to avoid a historically large increase in delinquency and defaults.

But a month later, lawsuits from conservative groups that opposed debt relief started taking hold -- and chipping away at the program.

In late September, a cohort of six Republican states sued the Department of Education for the plan: Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and South Carolina. The attorneys general argued that it exceeded the administration's authority, unfairly excluded Americans who won't receive debt relief or never took out loans and, chiefly, that certain loan servicers would lose revenue because of it. Another court case in Texas, brought by the conservative Job Creators Network Foundation, also took aim at the plan.

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Biden, who was in the midst of campaigning for the midterm elections, maintained that the program was legal and would prevail. At the same time, millions of Americans applied for the relief through the Department of Education's website, proving its popularity.

"As soon as I announced my administration's plan on student debt, they started attacking it, saying all kinds of things. Their outrage is wrong and it's hypocritical," Biden said about Republicans at an October rally at Delaware State University. "We're not letting them get away with it."

"I'm completely confident my plan is legal," Biden reiterated in a video on Twitter in late November.

PHOTO: Light illuminates part of the Supreme Court building on Capitol Hill in Washington, Nov. 16, 2022. (Patrick Semansky/AP, FILE)

MORE: Biden's student loan plan could reduce how much people pay and for how long

But while early court cases against the program were thrown out for lack of standing -- that is, for lack of someone or some entity showing they were harmed by it -- the subsequent challenges from the GOP were more successful.

Three Republican-appointed judges on the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with the GOP argument that Missouri would be harmed because a state-created company called MOHELA, which manages student loans, would lose money if debts were canceled. The attorneys argued that if Biden's student loan program decreased revenue for MOHELA, it would then cut into Missouri's own budget for public colleges and universities.

The application for debt relief was shut down shortly after, in mid-November -- despite confidence from the White House and legal experts who argued that there was still no legal standing for those who opposed the plan, even if they disagreed with it politically, because MOHELA wasn't strongly tied to the state of Missouri.

The Biden administration brought that argument to the Supreme Court a week after the application shut down.

By that point, 26 million borrowers had already applied and 16 million were approved for cancellation, but no debt relief had been discharged.

Arguments were set for Feb. 28, on an expedited timeline.

As the administration prepared for the case, Biden announced the eighth and final extension of the payment pause, reassuring borrowers that payments would not begin again until the fate of the program is decided, rather than on Jan. 1, as originally planned.

Student loan payments are now expected to resume either 60 days after the Supreme Court issues a decision on the relief program, or 60 days after June 30 -- whichever comes first.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden answers questions with Education Secretary Miguel Cardona as they leave an event about the student debt relief portal beta test in the South Court Auditorium on the White House complex in Washington, Oct. 17, 2022. (Susan Walsh/AP, FILE)

MORE: 171 Republican lawmakers join effort to stop student loan forgiveness program

Timeline

March 20, 2020

Former President Donald Trump announces the first federally mandated pause on student loan payments for 60 days (the pause started retroactively on March 13).

Inauguration 2021

After taking office, President Joe Biden directs the Department of Education to extend the pause on federal student loan repayments through September of that year.

Aug. 24, 2022

After a total of seven pauses over nearly three years, Biden announces sweeping student loan forgiveness for over 40 million Americans and extends the moratorium until December 31.

Sept. 27

The first lawsuit to challenge the student debt relief plan is filed in Indiana, but is later thrown out for a lack of standing.

Sept. 29

Six Republican-led states sue the Biden administration. Meanwhile, the Department of Education updates guidance on its studentaid.gov site on who qualifies for debt relief to shore the plan up against growing legal challenges.

Oct. 10

The conservative-leaning Job Creators Network Foundation files a lawsuit against the administration in Texas.

Oct. 14

The education department releases a "beta" version of the student debt relief application at studentaid.gov. Borrowers start to apply online.

Oct. 21

The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals decides to temporarily block the student debt relief plan, forcing the Department of Education not to discharge any debt relief to the millions of applicants until the fate of the program is more thoroughly reviewed and decided in court. People can continue to apply.

Nov. 3

The administration announces that 26 million borrowers have applied for debt relief in the first three weeks of the program. Of those applicants, 16 million have been approved for debt cancellation.

Nov. 10

A federal judge in Texas blocks the program, ruling that it goes beyond the authority of the education department and the power of the executive branch. The Department of Education is no longer allowed to accept applications for debt relief.

Nov. 11

The education department's website stops accepting student debt relief applications.

Nov. 18

The Biden administration files with the Supreme Court to overturn the "stay" on the student debt relief plan in the Eighth Circuit Court of appeals.

Nov. 22

As the legal challenges mount, putting the debt relief plan in jeopardy, and the payment pause deadline of Dec. 31 nears, the Biden administration extends the moratorium again. This time, until 60 days after June 30, 2023, or 60 days after the Supreme Court's decision on the fate of the program (whichever comes first).

Dec. 1

The Supreme Court announces it will hear oral arguments on the fate of the program in its upcoming session. Biden v. Nebraska, et. all will feature the six GOP-led states.

Dec. 12

The Supreme Court announces it will also hear oral arguments in the challenge brought by the Job Creators Network Foundation.

Jan. 4

The administration files a defense of its student debt relief plan with the Supreme Court. The court will hear arguments in opposition of the program from both the six GOP-led states and the Job Creators Network Foundation.

Jan. 11

A coalition of student debt relief advocacy groups file amicus briefs in support of the president's plan.

Feb. 3

More than 170 Republican lawmakers from the U.S. House and Senate file amicus briefs of their own in opposition to the program.

Feb. 28

The Supreme Court hears arguments from the administration, the six GOP-led states and the Job Creators Network Foundation.

How Biden's student debt relief plan landed before the Supreme Court: Timeline originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Michael Reynolds/UPI/Shutterstock

Feb. 28 is the day the fate of President Joe Bidens student loan forgiveness program will begin to play out, as the Supreme Court will hear arguments concerning it. The end result of these hearings  the judgment  will affect millions of American borrowers.

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While the Supreme Courts decision is widely expected to be released in June, the hearing day has been anxiously awaited by borrowers.

In November 2022, the White House reported that 26.3 million student loan borrowers had applied or were deemed automatically eligible for relief under the forgiveness program. Further, the White House stated that 16.5 million fully approved applications had been sent to loan servicers for discharge. The Biden administration estimated that more than 40 million borrowers would qualify for the debt relief program, with nearly 90% of the benefits of the relief going to borrowers earning less than $75,000 per year.

For now, the program has been halted. The administration issued a loan payment pause extension until June 30, to allow for the Supreme Court to rule on the case. The lawsuits challenging the program hinge on the argument that it is unconstitutional and that the HEROES Act  enacted in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks  does not provides authority to grant relief from student loans. Six Republican-led states claim the enactment of Bidens program would harm them financially, per CNN.

When the program was announced in August 2022, the Justice Department said in a brief of support regarding the program that the HEROES Act authorizes the Secretary to address the financial hardship arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic by reducing or canceling the principal balances of student loans for a broad class of borrowers.

However, Judge Mark. T. Pittman of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas argued  in his Nov. 10 decision  that the program was an unconstitutional exercise of Congresss legislative power and must be vacated.

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In this country, we are not ruled by an all-powerful executive with a pen and a phone. Instead, we are ruled by a Constitution that provides for three distinct and independent branches of government.

Protests are planned in front of the court tomorrow, including a Peoples Rally for Student Debt Cancellation. Co-sponsors of the rally include the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL), the Debt Collective, the Student Borrower Protection Center (SBPC), the NAACP, MoveOn, the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) and the National Education Association (NEA), as GOBankingRates previously reported.

CNN reported that if the Supreme Court strikes down Bidens student loan forgiveness program, it could be possible for the administration to make some modifications to the policy and try again  though that process could take months.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration and the Department of Education have been working in parallel on changes pertaining to income-driven repayment plans, which could alleviate borrowers financial burdens. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that the relief program would cost $400 billion.

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If enacted, the forgiveness program would grant up to $10,000 in federal student debt relief for borrowers whose income in 2020 or 2021 was less than $125,000 (or $250,000 for households). And for Pell Grant recipients, that amount increases to up to $20,000 in student loan cancellation. If you are a dependent student, your eligibility is based on your parental income. Most federal loans are eligible, including undergraduate and graduate direct loans, parent PLUS and grad PLUS loans, consolidation loans, Federal family education loan (FFEL) program loans held by the Department of Education, Perkins loans held by the Department of Education and defaulted loans, according to studentaid.gov.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Bidens Student Loan Forgiveness Goes to the Supreme Court Today  Heres What You Need To Know